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Dog Park Construction Is Underway

dogpark
MUSKEGON, MI – Muskegon’s first public dog park is now under construction as Downtown Muskegon Now has contracted with Port City Construction to complete the Downtown Muskegon PetSafe Bark Park.

The off-leash dog park at the corner of West Western Avenue and Shoreline Drive is a collaboration of funding groups led by the Michigan Economic Development Corp., PetSafe, the Greater Muskegon Kennel Club, Community Foundation for Muskegon County and Downtown Muskegon Now. Muskegon County and the city of Muskegon are key partners in the project along with dog enthusiasts throughout the community.

About $110,000 was raised by the community through a crowdfunding campaign last year established by the MEDC with a $50,000 placemaking grant to improve the quality of life of downtown residents and visitors – along with their pooches. DMN worked with a dog park advisory group, Muskegon landscape architect Harry Wierenga and project architect Andrea J. Riegler of Muskegon to design the park with small- and large-dog fenced areas, parking and an irrigated turf.

DMN signed a construction contract with Port City Construction after receiving three bids, all significantly over the construction budget.

“Downtown Muskegon Now is pleased to contract with a downtown construction company to create the first public dog park in Muskegon County,” said Andy Maciejewski, DMN board chairman. “We are thankful that Andrea worked closely with Port City’s Kevin Donovan and Gary Post to bring a quality development to the downtown within budget.”

Port City Construction and its subcontractors have begun the dog park construction on the 0.7-acre site and will have the facility completed in the next four months. DMN hopes to have a grand opening sometime in late summer or early fall.

About $10,000 in the Downtown Muskegon Dog Park Campaign Fund at the community foundation that will help support operation and maintenance of the Downtown Muskegon PetSafe Bark Park and the city’s Lake Michigan dog beach. Dog park and dog beach supporters continue to seek further funding for park upgrades, operations and maintenance. A gift to the fund can be made at: https://cffmc.org/give/give-now/

“The PetSafe Bark Park is just one of seven projects now under construction in Downtown Muskegon this summer,” said Dave Alexander, DMN executive director. “The dog park is a complement to all of the residential, commercial and institutional investments now being made in downtown.”

Besides the dog park, downtown visitors this summer will find ongoing construction with the Muskegon Community College Downtown Center, Berkshire Senior Housing Center, HighPoint Flats apartments, Heritage Square Commons, Terrace Plaza apartments and Terrace Pont Landing waterfront homes.

Village Of Fruitport Meeting – June 27, 2017

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 27, 2017

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

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll call of the Board
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Amy Haack, Donna Pope, Carl Rothenberger, Carl Russell and Bill Stone. Also present: Jeremy Statler-DPW Supervisor

5. Approval of previous meeting minutes:
May 23 meeting minutes, Motion made by Amy Haack, supported by Donna Pope. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.
June 6 public hearing minutes, Motion made by Amy Haack, supported by Donna Pope. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for June 27 Council Meeting: Motion made Donna Pope, supported by Amy Haack. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

7. Appointment of New Council Member to vacant seat. Motion made by Roger Vanderstelt, supported by Amy Haack to appoint William Overkamp as a member of the Council with his term expiring in 2018. With a unanimous vote the motion carried. William Overkamp was sworn in.

8. Council reappointment of Planning Commission Personnel. Roger Vanderstelt made a motion to appoint Jeff Jacobs, Mike Michelli and Dever Bendixsen to the Planning Commission for a term of 3 years as stated in the bylaws of the Planning Commission to expire on June 2020. He also clarified that we have appointed Carl Russell as the liaison to the Planning Commission with his term expiring in November 2020, supported by Haack. Discussion took place. Carl Russell questioned if there should be five members on the committee. He questioned if Jeremy could be on the Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals or would that be a conflict of interest. Carl Russell suggested contacting our attorney. Will Overkamp stated a concern of everyone’s term expiring at the same time. With a unanimous vote the motion carried. Additional discussion will be tabled until the July council meeting.

9. Public Comments: None

10. Candace Croswell Craft Show and Dog Nail Filing in the Park. Candace Croswell, Anne Marie Barn Boutique requested a temporary suspension of no dogs allowed in the park on August 12, 2017 for her event. She has a pet groomer willing to do free nail trimming for dogs. A pet station will be donated for the day. Motion made by Haack to allow the request and let the groomer come in on August 12, 2017, supported by Pope. With a unanimous vote the motion carried. A brief discussion took place about allowing dogs in the park. Amy stated that this was an item for the Friends of the Park Group.

11. Reports from Officers:
Donna gave an update that the library is doing great.
Amy distributed the Parks and Recreation meeting notes. The next meeting is July 10, 2017. Carl Rothenberger – Nothing to report.
Carl Russell – Nothing to report.
Bill Stone – Commented on the great job Bethany is doing at the library. Will Overkamp – Nothing to report.

12. Correspondence Ann advised that we recently completed the off year audit with our accountant. The garbage bills have been sent out and the delinquent garbage bills have been submitted to Rose Dillon to add to tax bills.

13. Update on Boat Launch Docks, Traffic study on 3rd and Pontaluna.
Jeremy Statler, DPW Supervisor stated we are still on schedule for August completion. Feel free to call him if you have any questions. Jeremy also discussed the Traffic study on 3rd and Pontaluna. The results very mimicking of the other study results, the speed limits are too low. Carl Rothenberger asked about signs for the other street. Jeremy said they are on hold so all could be done at the same time. Donna asked about the welcome to the village signs on Brooks Ave. Jeremy said they will all be done together possibly in the fall.

14. Circle Drive Line Painting
Roger asked if all council members went to review the lines. There are 3 options:
Grind them out and it may scar the road. Black paint over the top of the lines. Leave alone and let them fade away and don’t repaint next time.
Mr. Surridge spoke about his concerns over the lines. Motion made by Amy Haack, supported by Donna Pope to let the lines fade away and to reevaluate at a later date. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

15. Golf Cart Purchase
A quote from US Golf Cart was in the board packet. Carl Russell questioned the ordinance and made a motion to send to the Planning Commission, supported by Bill Stone. Discussion took place, Bill Stone suggested looking into a UTV (Utility Terrain vehicle) as an alternative. Carl Russell asked if Jeremy could email how they would be using it. Jeremy stated going back and forth to the park. Carl Rothenberger thinks we can take time to research while figuring it out. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

16. Fishing Pier on the end of 8th Ave
Jeremy reviewed a letter from the Village’s engineer regarding costs for a fishing pier at the end of 8th Ave. Discussion took place about parking and that it is technically the end of a road, Carl Russell suggested a possible guard rail or signs to stay off the rocks.

17. Medical Marihuana Facilities Discussion
Roger Vanderstelt stated we had a work shop and a public hearing regarding the request for a Medical Marihuana Facility within the Village of Fruitport. He reviewed the findings of an on- line and hand signed petition. Roger explained that our attorney said that if the village does not wish to allow medical marihuana facilities that decision can be done by resolution. If the Village wishes to allow medical marihuana facilities that decision must be done by amending the current ordinance. Amy Haack made a motion to decline adopting an ordinance to allow
Medical Marihuana Facilities within the Village of Fruitport and to request our attorney to draft a formal resolution to that effect, support by Bill Stone. Discussion took place. Carl Russell feels that responses were based on feelings not data, he doesn’t see the harm in it and see the benefits, and he also welcomes the business. Carl Rothenberger stated it was about the location within the Village. Bill Stone supports the people. Roll call Carl Rothenberger – AYE, Bill Stone – AYE, Donna Pope – AYE, Will Overkamp – AYE, Amy Haack – AYE, Carl Russell – NAY and Roger Vanderstelt – AYE. With a majority vote the motion carried.

18. Lighting in the Park
Jeremy reviewed the proposed Park Lighting diagram and quote. Bill Stone asked if this was the only quote we got. Jeremy discussed why he went with only one quote. A discussion took place about funding. Item to be tabled until the July meeting.

19. Boat Launch attendant Roger stated that Margo Hawkins has been the boat launch attendant for the last 3-4 years. She monitors the launch over the 4th of July weekend, Coast Guard and Labor Day. Roger made a motion to increase Margo’s wage from $10 per hour to $12 per hour, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a unanimous vote the motion carried. Discussion took place about having a credit card reader at the boat launch. The item is tabled until the July meeting.

20. Public Comments:
Bethany Nettleton commented on the golf cart and gator. Questioned if you technically need an ordinance. Bethany also commented on the MMMLA and that the Planning Commission representative said there was not enough room in the Village.
Jason Kolkema was going to ask if we could table the request for Medical Marihuana Facilities until all of the information comes out. He understand nobody wants that stuff, they are concerned about property rights and zoning as well. People can change. Talked about opinion vs. data. Jason discussed crime in relations to the current caregiver law that is in place.
Roger stated the Council has made their decision.
Bill Surridge – Thinks the fishing pier is a great idea. Carl Rothenberger said we have looked into the safety down there and the goal is to make it safe.

21. Closed Session to consider possible purchase of real propertyRoll call to proceed with closed session at 8:27pm. AYES: Vanderstelt, Haack, Pope, Rothenberger, Russell, Stone and Overkamp. NAYES:None

22. Roll call to end closed session-Roll call to end closed session at 8:50pm AYES: Vanderstelt, Haack, Pope, Rothenberger, Russell, Stone and Overkamp. NAYES:None

23. WARRANTS- Carl Russell questioned the Asphalt Paving bill and if it was voted on. Russell questioned the policy for approving the bill. Several council members stated it was discussed in the budget meeting and was approved in the 2016-2017 fiscal year budget. Motion made by Carl Rothenberger to approve Warrants, supported by Amy Haack. With a majority vote the motion carried.

24. ADJOURN Motion by Donna Pope to adjourn, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a majority vote the motion carried. 9:02 pm.

Respectfully submitted by, Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 07/17/17 – 07/24/17

Lighthouse Tours
Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.

Roll On Muskegon
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian
The Muskegon Museum of Art is one of the finest regional art museums in the Midwest with a 104-year history and an impeccable reputation.  The Museum also owns a complete edition, identified as the 70th of the planned original sets, of The North American Indian, by Edward S. Curtis, internationally recognized as the most comprehensive ethnographic and photographic historical record of Native Americans ever produced.  The astounding work is comprised of twenty volumes of research (containing 2.5 million works of text and thousands of photographs) and 20 portfolios containing an additional 723 photogravures.

Through September 10 of 2017, the Muskegon Museum of Art will present a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of national significance: Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian.
Documenting the lives of western Native American peoples, the stunning portraits and landscapes of The North America Indian, which were created from 1907 through 1930, are considered to be both the greatest artistic collaboration and photographic achievement in history.  A renowned successful celebrity photographer, Curtis threw it all away to pursue a 30-year obsession that nearly destroyed him. In the end, he lost his wealth, fame, marriage, and health, but left behind a monumental achievement: The North American Indian.  For more information, visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org.

Serene Yoga Summer Beach Yoga Series
Through August 31
Serene Yoga will be offering a new Summer Beach Yoga Series through August 31.  Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursday mornings from 10:00am – 11:00am and Friday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:00pm.  $10 drop-in rate.

Join Diana and enjoy the serenity of the Great Lakes as she guides you stretching and balancing poses while focusing on breath-work and relaxation.  This is a mind, body, spirit experience for the whole family.  This class is a biblical based perspective.  Meet at the beach.  Participants should bring a towel, sheet or yoga mat.  All new participants will be asked to fill out liability forms (please come early on your first visit).  Children under 17 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Check with your doctor if you have any concerns prior to taking this class.  For more information please contact Sereneyoga10@gmail.com or call 231-343-8381 (text for cancellation information).

2017 McGraft Park Free Summer Concert Series
Tuesdays @ 7:00 pm
Come to beautiful the McGraft Park Bandshell for a series of free, family friendly concerts this summer!  All concerts begin at 7:00pm.  For more information, call the Muskegon Parks Department at 231-724-6991.

  • Tuesday, July 11 – West Michigan Concert Winds (pop, jazz, marches)
  • Tuesday, July 18 – Steel Doin’ It (Steel Drums)
  • Tuesday, July 25 – Theresa’s Boys & the Grabinski Orchestra (polka and ballroom)
  • Tuesday, August 1 – Uneven Ground (Celtic)
  • Thursday, August 10 – Westside Soul Surfers (jazz, R & B, rock)
  • Tuesday, August 15 – Tom Pancy Band (modern jazz)
  • Wednesday, August 23 – Blackthorn (traditional Irish music)

Montague Band Shell: Free Summer Concert Series
Tuesdays @ 7:00 pm
Throughout the summer, every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Montague Band Shell, join the Arts Council of White Lake (ACWL) for the Free Summer Concert Series!  In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Montague Area Public Schools Center for the Arts located at Montague High School. For more information, call 231-893-2524.

The Line-up:

  • 07/18/17 – Scottville Clown Band
  • 07/25/17 – Magic Bus
  • 08/01/17 – The Moxie Strings
  • 08/08/17 – West Michigan Winds
  • 08/15/17 – Soul Syndicate
  • 08/22/17 – Shook Twins 

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place
July 19 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe!  All Cruise-In participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.

Egelston/Wolf Lake Festival
July 20 – July 23
July 20-23, the Egelston/Wolf Lake Festival is happening in Flickema Park, featuring a 5K run, movie night, outhouse races, arts and crafts fair, food vendors, children’s activities, music and a parade!  For more information call Alex at 231-788-2308.

Thursday, July 20

  • Free Movie Night – (Dusk)  Come to Beals Park for night of movies and popcorn.  The film will be “Kicking and Screaming” (PG) starring Will Ferrell.

Friday, July 21

  • Beverage Tent – (6:00pm – midnight) Adult beverages and music by Oregon Dreamchild.  Flickema Park
  • Festival Parade – (6:00pm) Parade begins on Park St. at Oakridge Lower Elementary.
  • Outhouse Races – Immediately following the parade on Park St.

Saturday, July 22

  • Arts & Crafts/Kids’ Art in the Park – (9:00am – 3:00pm) Beals Park
  • Fishing Tournament – (8:00am – 3:00pm)  Pig roast to follow
  • Kids’ Games – (11:00am -3:00pm) Beals Park
  • Free Family 5K Walk/Run (8:30am) Beals Park
  • Giant Waterslide (12:00pm – 3:00pm) Beals Park
  • Cornhole Tournament (12:00pm) Flickema Park
  • Softball Tournament – Flickema Park
  • Beverage Tent (6:00pm – 12:00pm) Adult beverages and music by DJ Dave.  Flickema Park

Sunday, July 23

  • Day of Worship – (10:00am) Led by Pastor Dan Smith of Jipson Immanuel Baptist Church, Beals Park.

Thursday Evenings are FREE at the Muskegon Museum of Art
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00pm, admission is free at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  One of the most highly respected art museums in the Midwest, the marbled halls of the MMA offer a full schedule of permanent collection displays, traveling exhibits and a lovely museum gift shop.  Be sure to check out Edward S. Curtis:  The North American Indian, an event of national significance celebrating the artistic genius and lasting cultural legacy of Edward Curtis, an early-1900s photographer who sacrificed everything for his art, died in obscurity, but left behind one of the greatest artistic collaborations and photographic achievements in history.  The exhibition will run May 11 through September 10, 2017.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 20 @ 7:00 pm
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Thursday, July 20 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come watch as the Clippers take on the Loggers.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

2017 Summer Theatre Festival
Through August 19
The 2017 Summer Theatre Festival at Howmet Playhouse happens every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from July 6 through August 19! All Shows Begin at 7:30 pm (Unless otherwise noted). Become a Member now for the best value. Make a single purchase, then pick and choose the plays you wish to attend. You will have the opportunity to select your desired membership level as part of the purchase process. Single Show Tickets are $21 for adults and $17 for students. Theater Box Office Hours are weekdays from 1:00 – 5:00pm from July 5 through August 18 and one hour before curtain.

  • July 6-8 The Seamstress
  • July 13-15 CMU Triple Show Weekend
  • July 20-22 The Birds
  • July 27-29 WLYT: The Rememberer
  • August 3-5 Fox on the Fairway
  • August 10-12 The Seafarer
  • August 17-18 Exit Laughing

Auditions will be announced soon! For more information, visit the website below or call (231) 894-4048.

Muskegon County Garden Club Flower Show “Books in Bloom, Cookbook Collection”
July 21 – July 22
Friday, July 21 from 3:30pm – 7:00pm, and Saturday, July 22 from 10:00am – 2:00pm, come to the Norton Shores Library for the Muskegon County Garden Club Flower Show “Books in Bloom, Cookbook Collection!”  This is a standard flower show featuring horticulture, designs, youth exhibits, artistic crafts and educational exhibits.  This event is free and open to the public.  For more information, call 231-755-4409.

Yoga at the Light
July 21 @ 9:30 am
July 21 at 9:30am, come to the White River Light Station for Yoga at the Light!  Bring your yoga mats or large towels and water to drink and join SPLKA for Yoga. The rain date is July 28.  For further information call Mitch Coleman at White River Yoga at 231-740-6662.

Party in the Park: Whoopee Kat
July 21 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
For more than 30 year’s Parties in the Park has been a Muskegon institution providing Friday evening entertainment, free admission and a family-friendly atmosphere!  Be a part of the tradition and enjoy a summer evening with us downtown in Hackley Park.  There are always five local Muskegon food vendors at every party, there’s something for everyone to purchase.  July 21, the band is Whoopee Kat, hosted by the Muskegon Optimists Club.  Happy hour is from 5:00pm-6:00pm with the night ending at 9:00pm.  For more information e-mail info@partiesinthepark.com.

Ravenna Dog Daze & Car Cruise-In
July 21 @ 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
July 21 from 5:30pm-9:30pm, come to downtown Ravenna for the Ravenna Dog Daze & Car Cruise-In!  There’ll be free dash plaques and goody bags for the first 125 entries.  There’ll also be childrens games, food, the beverage tent, live entertainment, the craft show and raffles.   All proceeds support local charities.  For more information call 231-557-6572.

Movies on Deck: Remember the Titans
July 21 @ 9:30 pm
Sunsets, sea breezes and superstars…they’re all on deck at USS LST 393 Veterans Museum for the popular “Movies on Deck,” most Friday nights this summer on Muskegon’s downtown waterfront.  The films are shown on LST 393’s huge screen on the top deck starting right after sunset, around 10:00pm.  In August, films start about 9:30pm.  There is no charge to attend “Movies on Deck” screenings, although donations to help support the ship’s restoration and veterans museum are always welcome. Moviegoers should bring their own chairs and weather-appropriate clothing.  Popcorn, soda and snacks are available for sale.

Inclement weather will mean a move down inside the giant tank deck of the ship for an indoor showing at 10:00pm.

LST 393 is located at the Mart Dock adjacent to Heritage Landing county park on the downtown Muskegon waterfront. Tour hours are 10:00am – 5:00pm seven days a week with the last tour starting at 4:00pm. For more information, call 231-730-1477 or visit www.lst393.org.

The movie, Friday, July 21 is Remember the Titans (PG).

Music at the Light: Western Michigan Dulcimer Friends
July 22 @ 2:00 pm
July 22 at 2:00pm, come to the White River Light Station for live music from the Western Michigan Dulcimer Friends!  Come enjoy a Saturday afternoon with a group of acoustic musicians that between them have decades of experience playing folk music, the music of our ancestors handed down through time.  This is the music played in grange halls for square dances.  The musicians will be playing dulcimers, guitars and fiddles to mention a few.  They play for the love of music. Bring your family, your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy an afternoon of folk inspired music while visiting and exploring the White River Light Station.  The museum and tower will be open for the standard admission charge.  For more information, call (231) 894-8265. 

Sunset Lighthouse Tours
Saturdays @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering sunset tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Saturdays in July from 5:00-8:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.

Summer Concert Series
Saturdays @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join Maranatha every Saturday at 7:00pm for their summer concert series!  All concerts are free and open to the public and feature artists like Meredith Andrews, Selah and Ellie Holcomb.  For more information visit vacationwithpurpose.org or call (231) 798-2161.

Movies on the Beach: Pirates of the Caribbean
July 22 @ 9:30 pm
Saturday night, July 22, come to beautiful Pere Marquette Beach for “Movies on the Beach!”  The movie will start around dusk at Pere Marquette Park (plan to be there by 9:30pm).  This month’s movie is “Pirates of the Caribbean” (PG) starring Johnny Depp.  This event is free and open to the public.  Come on down early to climb to the top of the South Pierhead Lighthouse from 5:00-8:00pm for a small fee.  Donations will be accepted (and are welcomed) in order to cover costs and raise funding for future movie nights.  Bring a chair and picnic basket and enjoy!

Yoga at the Deck
July 23 @ 11:00 am
July 23 at 11:00am, Muskegon Yoga and The Deck are teaming up to bring together two well-loved past times: yoga and beer drinking.  Only $10 will get you a 1 hour Vinyasa yoga class (all levels welcome) and a beer at beautiful Pere Marquette Beach.  Bring your yoga mat and a friend, enjoy a yoga class, then refresh with a beer.

There are limited spots available so register early!  For more information, call 231-668-4181.

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 23 @ 7:00 pm – July 24 @ 7:00 pm
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Sunday, July 23 and Monday, July 24at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come watch as the Clippers take on the Monarchs.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Muskegon County Youth Fair
July 24 – July 29
July 24-29, experience the wonders of farm life in West Michigan at the Muskegon County Youth Fair!  Support the local youth while they proudly display their agricultural works of the year and show their prized animals at the Muskegon County Fairgrounds!  For more information, visit www.muskegonfairgrounds.com.

 

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting July 17, 2017

Fruitport Board of Education
Annual Organizational Meeting
July 17, 2017 – 7:00 p.m.
Board of Education Meeting Room

I. Call to Order

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Roll Call

IV. Approval of Agenda

V. Re-adoption of all Existing Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Education (attachment #1)

VI. Reconfirmation of District’s Vision Statement, Mission Statement, Beliefs Statement and Exit Outcomes – Until changed and/or modified by Board of Education action (attachment
#2)

VII. Designation of Banking Institution (attachment #3)

VIII. Resolution for Investment Authority (attachment #4)

IX. Designation of Legal Firms (attachment #5)

X. Establishment of Board Compensation (attachment #6)

XI. Approval of District Memberships and Affiliations (attachment #7)

XII. Designation of Board Member Liaison to MASB (attachment #8)

XIII. Adjournment

– Recess – ­


Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room
Monday, July 17, 2017 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. PRESENTATIONS

1. Above and Beyond Awards
2. Athletic Annual Year End Presentation – Ken Erny

V. COMMUNICATIONS

Secretary-

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of June 19, 2017 (attachment VIII-1)
2. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of June 19, 2017 (attachment VIII-2)
3. Approval of Workshop Meeting Minutes of July 12, 2017 (attachment VIII-3)
4. Approval of Bills (attachment VIII-4)

General Fund $239,080.11
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center 1,374.11
Food Service 57,082.65
Cooper Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 3,342.06
Capital Projects (Bond) 155,230.92
_____________________________________
Total Bill List $456,109.85

5. Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment VIII-5)
6. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment VIII-6)
7. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment VIII-7)
8. Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment VIII-8)

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

1. Second and Final Reading of Board Policy #5630.01 (attachment IX-1)
2. First Reading of New and Updated Board Policies (attachment IX-2)
3. Approval of the Athletic Coaching Handbook (attachment IX-3)
4. Approval of Request to Bid Pool Repairs (attachment IX-4)

X. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS – Elroy Buckner, Chairperson

1. Report of Committee Meeting held July 12, 2017 (attachment X-1)
2. Approval of the Purchase of Two Buses (attachment X-2)
3. Approval of an Increase to the Early Childhood Center Daycare Rates (attachment X-3)

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS – Steve Kelly, Chairperson

1. Report of Committee Meeting held July 12, 2017 (attachment XI-1)
2. Ratify Fruitport Bus Drivers/Food Service Association Contract (attachment XI-2)

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS – Jill Brott, Chairperson

1.Report of Committee Meeting held July 12, 2017 (attachment XII-1)

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XIV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS

1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

*Time is provided for members of the audience to address the Board of Education regarding any topic including items on the agenda. The board is providing two opportunities for the public to comment during the meeting. The first is for people who wish to bring issues to the Board of Education for board consideration.

At the end of the meeting the board will provide a brief opportunity for community members to comment on activities and/or discussion that took place during the board meeting. Time limits may be placed if a large number of individuals would like to address the board.

Photos of Muskegon Win Prizes!

familyMuskegon, MI – During the month of July, Watch Muskegon is hosting a photo contest on social media. The public is encouraged to visit Muskegon County, take a picture that captures their experience and share it to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #ThisIsMuskegon. A panel of judges will select a winning photo in August with a grand prize of $1,000 cash and other Muskegon-focused items including stays at various hotels, passes to museums and festivals, and gift cards for local restaurants. A full description of the grand prize package, along with all the contest details, is available on the Watch Muskegon website.

kidsurfingMuskegon is the ideal location for the lakeshore lifestyle with award winning beaches, state parks, festivals, restaurants, and other attractions. Find your favorite Muskegon County attraction, tag your photo #ThisIsMuskegon and you are automatically entered into the contest.

The contest is part of the Watch Muskegon campaign, which was created to promote the Muskegon area with a focus on economic development, beautification and education. The campaign is currently in year 3, with plans to extend until 2020. To learn more about the contest and the Watch Muskegon campaign, visit www.watchmuskegon.com.

Summer Events at The Cove

The-Cove

Summer events at The Cove to focus on grace, prayer and the truth of the Gospel

Summer programming at the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove includes events that will encourage participants to be strong in their faith and find power in God during tumultuous times.

The schedule features seminars and retreats with ministry leaders, teachers, and authors including Will Graham, Ken Ham, Alex McFarland and more. Specialized programs include several intensive Bible training seminars designed to take an in-depth approach to understanding specific topics or sections of the Bible. Upcoming events include: “Jesus, Don’t You Care?” with Darren Thomas from July 7-9; Intensive Bible Training with Woodrow Kroll from July 10-14; and An Evening at The Cove with Michael Card on July 16

For more information about these, and other, events, view the complete events schedule online at www.thecove.org.

Planned Parenthood Cooks the Books to Deceive Media; Public

Planned Parenthood recently released their 2015-2016 annual report. Their own numbers show their increasing focus on abortion is coming at the cost of both health services and U.S. taxpayers. They also show how Planned Parenthood manipulates their own data to create talking points to distract from their abortion mission.

Planned Parenthood’s tax-funding has increased dramatically in the last 10 years, up 82 percent. Abortions have increased 24 percent. Despite receiving much more tax funding, their overall client base declined 23 percent, their contraceptive clients decreased 20 percent, and their breast exams decreased 62 percent.

Planned Parenthood knows most Americans don’t support tax-funded abortions, so they frequently employ their talking point that “only 3 percent of our services are abortion.” The point itself is misleading. Looking at their recent annual report, they reported serving 2.4 million clients and did 328,348 abortions. That’s 14 percent.

Thankfully some media outlets have pointed out the deception. Few have reported that Planned Parenthood doesn’t just conveniently use the “3 percent” statistic; they purposefully manufacture it by massaging the client data in their annual report.

If you look at their annual reports over the years, you’ll see that new categories of services get added to the report out of thin air. These “new” services never get touted as actual new services they offer. Consider their most recent annual report as an example.

Many of their largest services saw cuts. They had 100,000 fewer clients. They provided 72,947 fewer women with contraception. Their manual breast exams dropped by 42,103. Several other services experienced declines.

Did anything increase? They provided 25,553 more STI tests and 22,260 more pap tests. Those small increases don’t make up the difference between their decreasing services and increasing abortions to keep their “3 percent” statistic alive. They are forced to use some clever accounting.

In their latest report we suddenly see Planned Parenthood provided 226,254 well women exams; they already count them as breast exams and pap tests separately. They invented the category of “Other Contraceptive Services,” providing 100,673 services. Also new are “Other STI Prevention and Treatments,” totaling 26,042 services.

When Planned Parenthood adds it all up they get 9,494,977 services and 328,348 abortions, just enough to keep abortion at 3.46 percent of their “services”—how convenient.

Even Planned Parenthood’s clever accounting can’t distract from the reality that they use taxpayer dollars to expand their abortion infrastructure at the cost of patients and health services.

The Spirit Ride is Coming Through!

The very professionals who earn a living from highway accidents are now taking to the streets to promote highway safety and help safeguard the lives of fellow first responders. The Spirit Ride will relay a ceremonial casket by car carrier across the nation and back. About 300 towing companies across the U.S. are contributing their services to the Spirit Ride to promote safe driving and the Slow Down, Move Over law.

The Ride will pass through Muskegon, MI with the Spirit casket being relayed to 1st Class Towing. A ceremony will take place at 2:30 pm, 240 Seminole Rd., Norton Shores, MI 49441, followed by a procession of tow trucks and emergency service vehicles through Seaway Dr. toward downtown and back onto US31 SB.

The Move Over law is often ignored and seemingly unknown to many motorists. The law exists in all states of the Union and requires passing vehicles to move over one lane when approaching an incident where tow operators, police, fire fighters and EMS people are working.

The ceremonial casket, named Spirit was custom built by a carpenter who is also a lifelong singer-songwriter (Mike Corbin) who composed the Spirit Ride’s anthem. The casket was custom painted by an artist (Cecil Burrowes) who specializes in painting trucks and wreckers.

The colorful ceremonial casket, called Spirit, is at eight feet, a stretch farther than a standard casket. Painted on it are a dozen scenarios depicting first-responders at the scenes of highways incidents.

While promoting public awareness of the Move Over laws the Ride at the same time honors first responders who’ve been killed by passing vehicles. Hundreds of roadside professionals are casualties each year of roadside incidents; about 100 of them are killed. Among police, fire, EMS and towing professionals, 60% of those killed are tow operators.

Some 300 tow companies are relaying the ceremonial casket by car carrier from town to town across the nation and back. According to American Towman Magazine President Steve Calitri, the Ride is the greatest project in the history of the towing industry, which celebrated its centennial in 2016.

The Spirit Ride was founded by American Towman Magazine and B/A Products and is a project of American Towman Spirit, Inc., a nonprofit corporation, born to promote highway safety. Tow industry sponsors have pitched in with funds to support the coordination of the Ride and its media outreach campaign. All the towing companies participating by relaying the casket are contributing their services.

American Towman Spirit, Inc.
A non-profit corporation
www.AtSpiritRide.com

Step It Up! Walking Challenge

Ottawa and Allegan County…lace up your walking shoes and get ready for a free 6-week walking challenge. Registration opens on Friday!

Ottawa and Allegan Parks and Recreation and Department of Public Health are teaming up to bring the community another Step it Up! Walking Challenge this fall.

walkinggroup

Parks Naturalist, Kelly Morrissey, leads a walking group at Paw Paw County Park in Holland. Last spring, over 800 participants walked 106,609.6 miles – four times around the world!

This fall, participants will “virtually walk” 210 miles along regional trails in Michigan. The challenge begins on Monday, August 14 and registration opens on Friday, July 14!

This free 6-week program is designed to encourage participants to stay active as summer comes to a close. Participants of all fitness levels are invited to join – weekly prizes are available.

Optional group walks will be offered for those interested in getting their weekly steps in with a group while checking out Ottawa and Allegan County Parks (schedule below). Each walk will be led by a naturalist guide. Different pace groups will be available.

Participants will be able to track their individual progress online, including their cumulative steps taken. The Ottawa County GIS Department designed a map to see progress along the virtual trail. “When you login to track your steps, you’ll be able to track your individual progress. It was great to team up with GIS again to create an interactive component,” said Ottawa County Parks spokesperson Jessica VanGinhoven. “The tracking program is also mobile-friendly, so you can record your activity from your phone. These changes were made based on participant feedback and should make tracking activity much easier.”

“We were so pleased with the results of Step it Up last year,” said Ottawa County Department of Public Health educator Amy Sheele. “It really motivated participants to get moving and visit more parks. Of the individuals who completed our program surveys, nearly 40% reported an increase in their level of physical activity from the beginning of the Step It Up Challenge to the end! The average participant walked 216 miles over seven weeks.”

Past participants also enjoyed the program. In a survey following the program walk participants reported:

• Great program to encourage people to exercise and use the county park system.
• I loved this program! It motivated me to get walking again! I moved back to Holland two years ago and I learned a lot about the parks in Ottawa County through this program! I will be buying a pass and keep visiting our parks! Thank you very much!
• It has helped us lose weight and feel so much better.
• Prior to this challenge my daily steps were closer to 5,000 and since doing program I’m between 7,000-10,000 and some days way more. It challenged me to park further away and keep pedometer with me when walking around my house for a true count of my steps. Thanks for the motivation.

Registration opens this Friday, July 14!

URL: http://www.miottawa.org/StepItUp

Group Walk Schedule

August 14: Pigeon Creek Park, 5:30 PM
August 19: North Ottawa Dunes, 10 AM
August 19: Outdoor Discovery Center, 10 AM
August 22: New Richmond Bridge Park, 10 AM
August 24: Paw Paw Park (East), 5:30 PM
August 30: Grand River Park, 5:30 PM
September 6: Allegan Sports Complex, 10 AM
September 9: Rosy Mound, 10 AM
September 14: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (84th Ave entrance): 5:30 PM
September 21: Hemlock Crossing, 6 PM
September 23: Bysterveld Park, 10 AM

Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian and Related Events

July 7, 2017, Muskegon, Michigan – The Muskegon Museum of Art presents “The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians: Our Story,” a lecture by tribe Ogema Larry Romanelli, on Thursday, July 13. The event will start with a reception at 5:30 pm. The lecture begins at 7:00 pm in the MMA’s auditorium. The reception and program are free and open to the public. Mr. Romanelli will discuss the history and current life of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. He is a lifelong Muskegon resident and is from the Thunder clan of Odawa Indians. In 2007, he was elected as the Ogema, Chairman, and Chief of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Manistee, MI. Mr. Romanelli was re-elected to a second term of office in 2011 and to a third term in 2015. He is also a successful businessman and owner of three businesses in West Michigan.

This program is one in a series, at the Muskegon Museum of Art, that accompanies the exhibition Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian. Special programs continue in August with:
Standing Rock: A Report from the Field by Levi Rickert
Thursday, August 10, 5:30 pm Reception, 7:00 pm Lecture
Levi Rickert, editor of Native News Online, a national publication of, by, and for the indigenous peoples of North America, will talk about his recent experiences at the protests at Standing Rock in North Dakota.
Native Storytelling Super Saturday
Saturday, August 12, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Free Family Fun Day. Explore Native stories with special activities. Free admission and activities.
Film Screening & Lecture: Coming to Light with Anne Makepeace
Thursday, August 24, 5:30 pm Reception, 7:00 pm Film Screening & Lecture
Screening of Coming to Light, Edward S. Curtis and The North America Indians, followed by Q & A with Anne Makepeace, the film’s writer, director, and producer. Coming to Light was an Academy Award finalist for best feature documentary in 2001.

The North American Indian is an exhibition of national significance that explores the depth, breadth, and lasting cultural legacy of Edward Curtis’s monumental work. The exhibition, both survey and critique, tells the story of one of the most prominent photographers of his time, who sacrificed everything for his work on The North American Indian, only to die in obscurity. Curtis’s images have been extensively exhibited and collected, and have become iconic over the past century. Organized by the MMA, this exhibition will be perhaps the largest and most comprehensive survey ever presented of The North American Indian. For what may be the first time, the entire collection of all 723 portfolio photographs will be on display. Importantly, this thorough survey and overview of The North American Indian also examines the challenges and controversies that the work has faced through the years, and in our own time. The exhibition runs through September 10, 2017. Visit muskegonartmuseum.org for visitor information or call (231) 720-2571.

miheritagepark

Photo Courtesy Michigan Heritage Park

Special programs related to Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian in other locations throughout the area:
Native Heritage: The North American Indian
Michigan’s Heritage Park, through October 28 and Lakeshore Museum Center, May 11 through September 10 The Lakeshore Museum Center is featuring over 40 Native American artifacts from its collection at Michigan’s Heritage Park in Whitehall and in the Cabinets of Curiosity at the main museum site in downtown Muskegon during the MMA’s exhibition Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian. Among the artifacts on display in the Visitor Center at the park are two headdresses, jewelry, pottery, beadwork, baskets, and moccasins. The items selected for the display complement a selection of Curtis’s photogravures. The items in the Curiosity Corner are primarily beadwork and jewelry. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org or call 231.894.0342.
Honoring Native Heritage Pow Wow at Michigan’s Heritage Park, Whitehall
Saturday, July 15, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm and Sunday, July 16, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org or call 231.894.0342.
Theatre Presentation at Howmet Playhouse, Whitehall
The Rememberer by Steven Dietz
Thursday, July 27, 7:30 pm, Friday, July 28, 3:00 pm, Saturday, July 29, 7:30 pm The true story of a young Squaxin Indian girl, who is forcibly taken from her home and placed in a government-run school in 1911.
A Taste of History: Celebrations at Michigan’s Heritage Park, Whitehall
Saturday, August 12, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Jessica Diemer-Eaton will demonstrate traditional Native American food preparation. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org or call 231.894.0342.
Drumming Performance at Muskegon’s Bright Lights Festival at Muskegon South Pierhead Light
Saturday, August 19, 2:00 pm

Frauenthal Theater Tours

Join us for a historic tour in the Frauenthal Theater including the Mighty Barton Organ!
These FREE tours led by a docent will be held on select Thursdays this summer: July 20th, August 10th and August 24th

Time: 3pm

Lakeshore Women’s Expo

The Women’s of Purpose Auxiliary with its sponsors …. Church of God Holy Faith, Community Shores Bank, Meijer, Muskegon FCU, and Muskegon Family Care present.. the Lakeshore Women’s Expo on Saturday, August 26, 2017, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lakes Mall, Muskegon, Mi.

All are welcome to attend this free event, including men and children. Vendors will be present, some conducting free screenings, testing and examines on a broad range of services/topics. Enter once for free drawings that will run randomly throughout the event (over 100 gifts to be given away. Details discussed at the event).

Join us for live stage events and presentations that will run from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Presentations include: Managing pain w/o the use of prescription drugs by speaker, Ramona Wallace, DO; Belly Dance Fitness Demonstration put on by the Lakeshore Fitness Center, Self Defense Demonstrations useful in warding off assault by Salomon Karate Studio; A Fall Fashion Show featuring models and attire from Lakes Mall vendors; CPR & Heimlich Maneuver Demonstrations by the American Red Cross, Zumba Demonstrations by Instructor Glenda Meier; and Songs of Worship by the Praise Team of the Church of God Holy Faith, with its pastor, Bishop M. L. Bankhead.

Reception Gallery at the Frauenthal Center

“The Colors of Nature” by Kristen Thornton
and
“In Our Backyard” by Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon
at the Frauenthal Center through August 6th

Join us in the Reception Gallery of the Frauenthal Center to experience the brilliant colors and Michigan images from Grand Rapids artist Kristen Thornton in the July exhibition at the Frauenthal Center. The exhibit also includes the photographs of Muskegon by members of the Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon who are participating in the National Image Makers program. The show runs July 6th through August 6th

Kristen Thornton attended Central Michigan University and graduated from Ferris State University with a B.S. in Health Information Administration. While attending college, she took art courses, including drawing and design at both universities. “I started drawing and painting at a young age. It was, and is, a wonderful outlet for expressing the beauty around us. In my early works I used more traditional colors and subjects. As I continued to paint, examine other art works, I found that I enjoyed looking at paintings with different, vibrant colors. Kristen says. “ Some of my influences have been impressionist such as Claude Monet, expressionists/Fauve painters like De Vlaminck and Cezanne.”

This is the 2nd photography exhibit of the Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon at the Frauenthal. These creative 6-18 year olds were guided by their mentor Hillary Jones who says, “This year’s theme is inspired by Muskegon’s rich scenery and architectural gems in our fair city. As you explore the exhibit, you will find yourself strolling through downtown Muskegon. You will follow the journey of our young photographers as they captured the royal blues of Muskegon Lake and the splendor of Hackley Library.

“We are very excited about the two different perspectives of the Michigan landscape,” said Ricki Levine, Frauenthal Center Managing Director. “The colors and textures of Kristen’s vibrant paintings contrast the photos by the Boys and Girls Club. It seemed like a wonderful divergence to display together”.

Open through August 6th, admission to the exhibition is free. Guests may tour the reception gallery on weekdays from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.,with extended hours on show nights. Exhibits are open to the public (with the exception of during private events) and admission is always free.
For more information about the Frauenthal Center and upcoming events, visit frauenthal.org or call 231.722.9750

Community Foundation Announces Fall 2017 Grant Opportunities

Muskegon, MI: Nonprofit charitable organizations serving the Muskegon County region are eligible to apply for a grant from the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC). The Foundation gives grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, churches, schools, agencies and governmental units serving the greater Muskegon County area.

The grant deadline is September 14; however, an Application of Intent Form should be submitted by August 31. All applications must be submitted online at www.cffmc.org/grants. Grant recipients will be announced by November 15.

The Foundation will consider proposals in the following areas: arts and culture, health and human services, education, environment, emerging community needs, and community needs/urban revitalization. Proposals should also be built around at least one of the Foundation’s new leadership goals: promoting collaboration and efficient use of community resources; creating hope and opportunity for our youth; and making Muskegon County a more inclusive and accessible community.

In addition, the following funds will be awarding grants:

• The Julia Hackley Memorial Fund of the Foundation will consider applications that support the needs of City of Muskegon residents, with priority given to meeting the needs of low-income individuals and families.

• The Greater Muskegon Women and Children’s Fund will consider applications that focus on meeting the needs of Women and Children in Muskegon County.

• The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of the Foundation will consider applications that address projects and programs that focus on serving Muskegon County youth.

• The Environmental Fund will consider applications that build community capacity, educate, provide environmentally-oriented technical assistance, protect and preserve natural resources and clearly relate to the environmental interests and needs of the Muskegon region.

• The Muskegon County Medical Society Fund will accept applications that focus on programs and projects relating to health and science education and related activities.

• The White Lake Community Fund will accept applications for projects in the White Lake area that address the following community needs: social services, environment, civic affairs, education, and youth.

All applications, made online through eGrant, are general applications that are matched by staff with the best-fitting fund. Complete details about the Foundation’s funding priorities and applying for a grant can be found at www.cffmc.org/grants.  Questions? Contact JacQuaye Payne, Program Officer, at jpayne@cffmc.org, or 231.332.4124.

Ask Dr. Universe – Animals on Islands

How do animals get to islands? –Jax, 8, WA

Dear Jax,

Animals make their journeys to islands in different ways. Some float. Some fly. Others will swim.

My friend Jonah Piovia-Scott is a scientist at Washington State University. He studies how different living things interact with each other, especially in island habitats. He is really curious about predatory lizards that live on a chain of islands called the Bahamas.

“These lizards can get to islands,” he said. “They can swim, but not very well. They keep themselves afloat.”

Floating is one way animals get to islands. They may float on their own or they may take a kind of raft. This raft is often made up of plants, branches, or other things that blow out into the sea during a storm and are swept together in the ocean.

Flying helps animals like bats and bugs get to islands. Piovia-Scott reminded me that some animals fly for just a small part of their lives, too. Before some ants are fully grown, they go through a stage where they have wings. An ant might find it hard to swim in the ocean. But while it has wings, it can make a flight to a new place.

If animals are light enough, they may get picked up in the wind and sort of drift along. For example, spiders use their silk to catch the wind and move to new locations. Also, a lot of plants get to islands because of the wind. Plant seeds often catch a ride in the air. When they reach the island, they get buried in soil and start to sprout. These plants provide food for many animals.

Finally, there are animals that are just good swimmers, such as seals. They can paddle long distances to an island and some also find a home on the land.

Piovia-Scott explained that animals often take advantage of their new island life. We see these changes in animals such as the marine iguana. Most iguanas we know about only live on the land. But iguanas on the Galapagos Islands dive into water to look for food. They have developed ways to use the resources in and around their island environment.

Another place we see this is in the Pacific Northwest on the San Juan Islands. On these islands, we find raccoons that eat shellfish.

Piovia-Scott said you could probably say the same is true of people who live on islands—they tend to eat a lot of fish. That sounds like my kind of place. I might have to go and explore an island one of these days.

In the meantime, I’m going to see if I can make a flying device and floatation device to learn more about how things travel on water and in the air. You can try it out, too. Find this article and the instructions at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

 
Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Submit a question of your own at http://askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/ask

Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce – About

ABOUT THE CHAMBER
The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization on the lakeshore representing approximately 1,200 businesses and organizations. The Muskegon Chamber represents businesses of every size and type all over West Michigan. The Chamber is celebrating more than 120 years in operation working to sustain an environment for business success through community leadership, promotion, inclusive business advocacy and valued member services. The Muskegon Chamber is a four-time award winning Chamber, being named Chamber of the Year for the State of Michigan in 2006, 2010, 2012 and 2015 by the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals.

Contact:

Jodi Kittle
Communications Manager
Energetic Marketing Guru
Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce
P 231-724-3174
www.muskegon.org

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 07/10/17-07/17/17

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


Camp Hogwarts
July 10 @ 9:00 am – July 14 @ 2:00 pm

Monday – Friday, July 10 – 14 from 9:00am – 2:00pm, bring the kids to the Book Nook & Java Shop for “Camp Hogwarts!”

The Ministry of Magic is pleased to announce that 16 lucky young Muggles will be accepted to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry this summer! Wizards and witches will receive training in Potions, History of Magic, Charms, Care of Magical Creatures, and Defense Against the Dark Arts.  All students will be required to sit for their O.W.L.s (Ordinary Wizarding Levels) at the end of the week- NO EXCEPTIONS.  Please note: It is important that all students have read at least the first book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, to fully experience this camp.

$125 includes instruction, field trips, craft materials, plus morning & afternoon healthy snacks.  Bring your own lunch or $5 to purchase lunch (including beverage).  For more information or to register, call 231-894-5333.


Lighthouse Tours
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto
July 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Monday, July 10 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Library for live music from guitarist, Hiroya Tsukamoto!  He’ll take you on an innovative, impressionistic journey
filled with earthy, organic soundscapes that impart a mood of peace and tranquility.

Hiroya Tsukamoto is a guitarist and composer originally from Kyoto, Japan. In 2000, he received a scholarship to Berklee College of Music and came to the US. Since then, he has been performing internationally including several appearances with his group at Blue Note in New York and released six albums as a leader. And he also performed and appeared on major televisions internationally such as NHK (Japanese National Television) and EBS in Korea.  For more information, call 231-722-8000.


Roll On Muskegon
July 10 & 17 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

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


Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian

The Muskegon Museum of Art is one of the finest regional art museums in the Midwest with a 104-year history and an impeccable reputation.  The Museum also owns a complete edition, identified as the 70th of the planned original sets, of The North American Indian, by Edward S. Curtis, internationally recognized as the most comprehensive ethnographic and photographic historical record of Native Americans ever produced.  The astounding work is comprised of twenty volumes of research (containing 2.5 million works of text and thousands of photographs) and 20 portfolios containing an additional 723 photogravures.

May 11 – September 10 of 2017, the Muskegon Museum of Art will present a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of national significance: Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian.

Documenting the lives of western Native American peoples, the stunning portraits and landscapes of The North America Indian, which were created from 1907 through 1930, are considered to be both the greatest artistic collaboration and photographic achievement in history.  A renowned successful celebrity photographer, Curtis threw it all away to pursue a 30-year obsession that nearly destroyed him. In the end, he lost his wealth, fame, marriage, and health, but left behind a monumental achievement: The North American Indian.  For more information, visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org.


Serene Yoga Summer Beach Yoga Series

Serene Yoga will be offering a new Summer Beach Yoga Series through August 31.  Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursday mornings from 10:00am – 11:00am and Friday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:00pm.  $10 drop-in rate.

Join Diana and enjoy the serenity of the Great Lakes as she guides you stretching and balancing poses while focusing on breath-work and relaxation.  This is a mind, body, spirit experience for the whole family.  This class is a biblical based perspective.  Meet at the beach.  Participants should bring a towel, sheet or yoga mat.  All new participants will be asked to fill out liability forms (please come early on your first visit).  Children under 17 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Check with your doctor if you have any concerns prior to taking this class.  For more information please contact Sereneyoga10@gmail.com or call 231-343-8381 (text for cancellation information).


Healthier You: Gluten Free Cooking with Chef Jamie (Part 1)
July 11 @ 6:30 pm

Tuesday, July 11 at 6:30pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for “Healthier You: Gluten Free Cooking with Chef Jamie (Part 1)!” Gluten intolerant? Just want to eat healthier?  In this class you will prepare an appetizer, entree and dessert, all gluten free!  This is a two-part series and the second class will be held on Tuesday, July 25.   The cost is $35.  This is a hands-on class, so bring your appetite and there will probably be leftovers to take home. Gluten free eating is easier than you think.  For those who register for both classes, a $5 token will be provided for shopping at the Muskegon Farmers Market.  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.


2017 McGraft Park Free Summer Concert Series
July 11 @ 7:00 pm

Come to beautiful the McGraft Park Bandshell for a series of free, family friendly concerts this summer!  All concerts begin at 7:00pm.  For more information, call the Muskegon Parks Department at 231-724-6991.

• Tuesday, July 11 – West Michigan Concert Winds (pop, jazz, marches)
• Tuesday, July 18 – Steel Doin’ It (Steel Drums)
• Tuesday, July 25 – Theresa’s Boys & the Grabinski Orchestra (polka and ballroom)
• Tuesday, August 1 – Uneven Ground (Celtic)
• Thursday, August 10 – Westside Soul Surfers (jazz, R & B, rock)
• Tuesday, August 15 – Tom Pancy Band (modern jazz)
• Wednesday, August 23 – Blackthorn (traditional Irish music)


Montague Band Shell: Free Summer Concert Series
July 11 @ 7:00 pm

Throughout the summer, every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Montague Band Shell, join the Arts Council of White Lake (ACWL) for the Free Summer Concert Series!  In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Montague Area Public Schools Center for the Arts located at Montague High School. For more information, call 231-893-2524.

The Line-up:

• 06/20/17 – Uneven Ground
• 06/27/17 – Josh Davis
• 07/04/17 – Lakeshore Big Band
• 07/11/17 – Ben Bedford
• 07/18/17 – Scottville Clown Band
• 07/25/17 – Magic Bus
• 08/01/17 – The Moxie Strings
• 08/08/17 – West Michigan Winds
• 08/15/17 – Soul Syndicate
• 08/22/17 – Shook Twins


Rebel Road
July 13 – July 15

Muskegon’s ‘Rebel Road’ is a family friendly event that emulates the years of success that Bike Time had with “Steel Horse Alley” on Western Ave. with motorcycle parking, beer tents, stunt groups and pyrotechnic shows. The event is happening July 13-16 and coincides with Muskegon Bike Time.  Rebel Road is also adding Rebel Road Family Night from 6:00pm – 10:00pm on July 12 with pony rides, a mechanical bull, live entertainment and beverages! They’ve got an awesome lineup for everyone this year.   Admission is always free in the Beverage Tents, so come on in and enjoy the shows.  All proceeds benefit the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County.   Check them out on Facebook or www.rebelroad.org for details.

Locations & Band Schedule

Depot Lot 610 W. Western Ave.
​Friday, July 14, 2017

• ReFURBUSHed – 7:00pm
• American Hair Band – 9:30pm

​Saturday, July 15, 2017

• Group Therapy – 6:00pm
• Westside Soul Surfers – 8:00pm
• Let There Be Rock – 10:00pm

​LC Walker Arena Lot 477 W. Western Ave.
​Thursday, July 13, 2017

• Lookin’ Back – 6:30pm
• Wreking Crue – 9:30pm

Friday, July 14, 2017

• Trixy Tang – 6:00pm
• Jasmine Cain – 9:00pm

​Saturday, July 15, 2017

• Bettie Paige – 6:00pm
• Jared Blake – 9:00pm

​Sunday, July 16, 2017

• Natchez Trace – 12:00pm
• Yard Sale Underwear – 3:00pm


Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place
July 12 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe!  All Cruise-In participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.


Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 12 @ 7:00 pm – July 13 @ 7:00 pm

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Wednesday, July 12 and Thursday, July 13 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come watch as the Clippers take on the Leprechauns.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.


Muskegon Bike Time
July 13 – July 16

Muskegon Bike Time is back again for 2017 and begins a new decade of promoting Muskegon as a tourist destination, by celebrating all things related to motorcycle enthusiasts.  The event this year will be held July 13 – 16.

Muskegon Bike Time is welcoming two large traveling displays from the Harley-Davidson Corporate Headquarters to Bike Time at Hot Rod Harley Davidson in downtown Muskegon.

The Harley-Davidson Demo Trailer will offer free test drives to patrons, with 16 brand new models to choose from.  Riders will be able to test ride any model they wish at their leisure and on their own.

The Project Rushmore Experience is another Harley-Davidson big rig, retro-fitted to display and provide an interactive experience for patrons on all audio, LED lighting, and other accessories for the new Harley-Davidson Touring line of motorcycles.

Part of the display will be The Harley-Davidson®  JUMPSTART Rider Experience which combines a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a specially-designed, stationary support stand.

• No knowledge or previous motorcycle experience necessary
• Motorcycle will not tip over

You’ll mount the bike, set your boots on the foot pegs and fire up the engine under the watchful eye of trained personnel. Give the throttle a twist and hear that unforgettable Harley sound. Sitting comfortably on the bike, you’ll continue to shift through the gears – all safely and securely attached to the JUMPSTART platform.

This dynamic display uses interactive curved LED monitors that form a wraparound video experience that takes participants through unique landscapes while enjoying their choice of music.  This life like experience is enhanced with the use of fog machines and other technology to simulate the feel of the open road while highlighting the bikes aerodynamics.

In addition to promoting and marketing the third weekend in July as an event for motorcycle enthusiasts, Muskegon Bike Time will focus its attention on providing activities geared especially for the motorcyclist. The focal point of Bike Time activities will be at the Hot Rod Harley Davidson property in downtown Muskegon.  Hot Rod Harley Davidson, located at 129 Shoreline Drive, will be open from 9:00am until 8:00pm each night of Bike Time. Hot Rod Harley provides new and used motorcycles, excellent service, parts, accessories and apparel.

Other motorcycle manufacturers will be present during Bike Time including metric bikes, side by sides and trikes.  In addition, parts and accessory vendors will show their wares and services including LED lighting installation, unique custom image products for motorcycles and state of the art custom made trailers to haul all of your toys.

Relentless Stunts Motorcycle Show will have you on the edge of your seat with nonstop action performing wheelies, smoking tires, and performing tons of crazy “must see to believe” acrobatics.

Additional activities include food service provided by Texas Road House, the Little River beverage tent with Pepsi products, official Bike Time merchandise, and information from Bike Time signature sponsor, Little River Casino Resort.

Muskegon Bike Time will continue to plan and promote a variety of scenic rides, throughout the West Michigan shoreline, for visiting bikers. They include:

Patriot Ride – scenic ride that raises funds to support Every Woman’s Place shelter.
7 Lakes Northern Ride – scenic ride showcasing 7 different lakes and many interesting small towns in West Michigan.
Hot Rod Harley & Downtown – leaving Hot Rod Harley Davidson in downtown Muskegon, cruise the strip of Western Avenue, which is open to motorcycle traffic only, which includes beer tents, brewery’s, restaurants, vendors and other activities.
Pere Marquette Beach – visit one of the most beautiful sugar sand beaches in the country right on Lake Michigan.
Lake Shore Drive Southern Ride – this ride takes you along the Lakeshore to resort town of Grand Haven and the Dutch village of Holland and several lakes and rivers.
• Muskegon Bike Time is encouraging others to plan and develop events and activities for the enjoyment of visitors to the Muskegon area.  Please notify Muskegon Bike Time of your activities so they can be promoted in advance to those intending to visit the area.

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time 2017, please visit their website at www.muskegonbiketime.com  or follow them on Facebook or Twitter.


Braveheart Raptor Rehabilitation Center
July 13 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

The purpose of the center is to rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned raptors and return them to the wild in a healthy condition. The center is open to the public from June through October two days per month, the 2nd Thursday and 2nd Sunday of each month from 1:00pm-4:00pm for tours. No admission fee. When you visit the center you will see a number of different species of raptors, including eagles, owls and falcons. In addition to the birds, they have hands on activities to learn more about raptors. They are handicap accessible. Please call in advance to be sure they are open. www.braveheartcenter.com


Thursday Evenings are FREE at the Muskegon Museum of Art
July 13 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Every Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00pm, admission is free at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  One of the most highly respected art museums in the Midwest, the marbled halls of the MMA offer a full schedule of permanent collection displays, traveling exhibits and a lovely museum gift shop.  Be sure to check out Edward S. Curtis:  The North American Indian, an event of national significance celebrating the artistic genius and lasting cultural legacy of Edward Curtis, an early-1900s photographer who sacrificed everything for his art, died in obscurity, but left behind one of the greatest artistic collaborations and photographic achievements in history.  The exhibition will run May 11 through September 10, 2017.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.


Lecture: Little River Band of Ottawa Indians
July 13 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm

July 13 from 5:30pm – 8:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a lecture by Larry Romanelli, Ogema, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians entitled “Little River Band of Ottawa Indians: Our Story!”

Mr. Romanelli will discuss the history and current life of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians.  He is a lifelong Muskegon resident and is from the Thunder clan of Odawa Indians.  In 2007, he was elected as the Tribal Ogema, Chairman, and Chief of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Manistee Michigan. Mr. Romanelli was re-elected to a second term of office in 2011 and an unprecedented third term of office in 2015 which he will serve out until the year 2019.  Along with his tribal work, he is a successful businessman and owner of three businesses in West Michigan.

The event begins at 5:30 with a reception and refreshments.  The lecture begins at 7:00pm.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.


Cooking with Fresh, Local Herbs with Chef Char
July 13 @ 6:00 pm

Thursday, July 13 at 6:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for “Cooking with Fresh, Local Herbs with Chef Char!”  Curious about what herbs enhance flavor best for particular foods?  Do you grow your own herbs and want new ideas for using them?  Are you curious about what herbs and ingredients make the best compound butter for cooking?  Class participants will try pesto, compound butter, oils for dipping and a chicken dish made with class creations.  Class size is limited to 15.  The cost is $35.  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.


2017 Summer Theatre Festival
July 13 – August 18 @ 7:30 pm

The 2017 Summer Theatre Festival at Howmet Playhouse happens every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from July 6 through August 19! All Shows Begin at 7:30 pm (Unless otherwise noted). Become a Member now for the best value. Make a single purchase, then pick and choose the plays you wish to attend. You will have the opportunity to select your desired membership level as part of the purchase process. Single Show Tickets are $21 for adults and $17 for students. Theater Box Office Hours are weekdays from 1:00 – 5:00pm from July 5 through August 18 and one hour before curtain.

• July 6-8 The Seamstress
• July 13-15 CMU Triple Show Weekend
• July 20-22 The Birds
• July 27-29 WLYT: The Rememberer
• August 3-5 Fox on the Fairway
• August 10-12 The Seafarer
• August 17-18 Exit Laughing

Call (231) 894-4048 for more information.


Music at the Light: Wyatt and Shari Knapp
July 14 @ 7:00 pm

July 14 at 7:00pm, come to the White River Light Station for live music with Wyatt and Shari Knapp!  Known for their sparkling vocals, lush harmonies, and tasteful blend that sets them apart, this personable and engaging husband-wife duo has warmed the hearts of audiences throughout Michigan and beyond.  While remaining true to their traditional and Americana roots, their music reaches into genres as rich and diverse as bluesy folk, “high lonesome” bluegrass, and timeless classics of the 1940’s.  Shari’s rhythm guitar provides a pleasing foundation for Wyatt’s finger-style and flat-picking guitar leads, as the two serve up fresh arrangements of obscure covers, time-tested favorites and original tunes for audiences of all ages.  For more information, call (231) 894-8265.


Movies on Deck: Enchanted
July 14 @ 9:30 pm

Sunsets, sea breezes and superstars…they’re all on deck at USS LST 393 Veterans Museum for the popular “Movies on Deck,” most Friday nights this summer on Muskegon’s downtown waterfront.  The films are shown on LST 393’s huge screen on the top deck starting right after sunset, around 10:00pm.  In August, films start about 9:30pm.  There is no charge to attend “Movies on Deck” screenings, although donations to help support the ship’s restoration and veterans museum are always welcome. Moviegoers should bring their own chairs and weather-appropriate clothing.  Popcorn, soda and snacks are available for sale.

Inclement weather will mean a move down inside the giant tank deck of the ship for an indoor showing at 10:00pm.

LST 393 is located at the Mart Dock adjacent to Heritage Landing county park on the downtown Muskegon waterfront. Tour hours are 10:00am – 5:00pm seven days a week with the last tour starting at 4:00pm. For more information, call 231-730-1477 or visit www.lst393.org.

The movie, Friday, July 14 is Enchanted (PG).


Dance by the Dock!
July 14 @ 10:00 pm

Every Friday from 10:00pm – Midnight, after you “Party In The Park” come to the Port City Princess to “Dance by the Dock!”  Each dance features a musical theme such as The 80’s, Classic Rock, Endless Summer, Swing, Modern Pop and other great genres to get you in the groove.  There’ll be a full bar, so you’ll need to be 21 or over to attend.  This is not a cruise, but a big party on the boat, and admission is absolutely FREE!  For more information, call  (231) 728-8387.


Honoring Native Heritage Pow Wow
July 15 – July 16

Saturday and Sunday, July 15 and 16 from 10:00am-4:00pm, come to Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing for the Native Heritage Pow Wow!  A traditional outdoor Pow-Wow offers park visitors the opportunities to see traditional dancers, fancy shawl dancers, jingle dress dancers, and grass dancers.  Native drummers and singers will perform throughout the weekend.  Over a dozen trade booths will offer jewelry, handmade crafts, and bead work.  Traditional Native American food will be available for purchase including fry bread and soups.  Sponsored by Lakeshore Museum Center.  For more information, call 231-894-0342.

Special park hours for the Pow Wow:

Saturday, July 15: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Sunday, July 16 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.


Fresh Coast Games
July 15

Fresh Coast Games is like no other CrossFit competition that you have ever been to!  Come to beautiful Pere Marquette Beach for this three person (m/m/m or f/f/f) team competition guaranteed to test your fitness in ways that you just can’t when you’re inside the box.  They plan to take full advantage of the sandy shoreline and maybe the water, too.  But what about the barbells?  Don’t worry, a max lift will be one of the day’s highlights.

Included with registration is a one of a kind tank top so that you can show off those weapons of mass destruction as you strut up and down the beach this summer.  In addition, each team will receive a ridiculous grab bag of goodies, as well as a raffle ticket for a few top secret giveaways.  It’s going to be a party with loudspeakers fueling your workouts.  There’ll be two large tents for athletes and guests to relax in between events.  You are encouraged to bring your own pop up tent and beach towels.  Vendor village will feature local businesses, supplement and equipment companies, and MichFit!

This is an RX Competition, but they don’t want to turn anyone away from getting a great workout and suntan.  If your team is unable to perform any of the movements to the standard, you will simply be ineligible for a podium spot.

Movements and Weights that you can expect to see:
• DB weights 45/30
• KB weights 62/44
• C2B Pullups
• T2B
• DL 225/155
• Thruster 115/75
• Team Max Olympic Lift Portion

BAYWATCH – Don’t forget your short shorts and one piece!

MUSCLE BEACH – This will be your opportunity to show off your strength.

A final WOD consisting of the top 3 teams will be held to crown the Fittest of Fresh Coast

A portion of the proceeds will be going to The Old Newsies Goodfellows to aid in their mission of providing gifts to needy children in the Muskegon area.  There will be a donation box for children’s toys.  For more information, visit www.muskegoncrossfit.com/events or check out their Facebook page.


Breakfast at the Farmers’ Market
July 15 @ 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Saturday, July 15 from 8:30am-10:30am, come to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for a Big Farmers’ Breakfast!  Enjoy pancakes, waffles, bacon, sausage, biscuits, bagels, bread, scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes and more.  Water will be served or beverages will be available for purchase.  For more information, call (231) 724-6777.


Creative Saturday
July 15 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Join Muskegon Center for the Arts members in creative idea exchanges, inspiration and camaraderie as you work on your own project the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am-1:00pm at the Red Lotus Gallery.  “Creative Saturdays” are for ages 12 and up and are free to the public, but donations are always welcomed. Bring a new or current working project and your own supplies for your artwork; whether it be sewing, drawing or painting projects.  Artists’ trading cards are also available.  For more information visit www.muskegonca.org.


25th Annual Celebrate White Lake Day
July 15 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

July 15 from 10:00am-4:00pm, the White Lake Historical Society will be sponsoring the 25th Annual Celebrate White Lake Day and Wooden Boat Show at the Municipal Marina and Goodrich Park.  This free event features historical–environmental displays in addition to the boat show.  For more information, call 231-894-4313.


Sunset Lighthouse Tours
July 15 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering sunset tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Saturdays in July from 5:00-8:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


The MCA – Red Lotus Gallery Open Mic Night
July 15 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Muskegon Center for the Arts presents Open Mic Night at the Red Lotus Gallery, located in the Century Building, from 7:00pm – 9:00pm.  If you have a love for the stage and can perform an activity such as music, anything theatrical, poetry or readings, you may want to express it here or just show up to watch the show.  There is always something new and unique to enjoy.  This event happens on the third Saturday of every month and is for persons 18 years and older.  This is a free event.  For more information, call (231) 206-0426.


Summer Concert Series
July 15 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Join Maranatha every Saturday at 7:00pm for their summer concert series!  All concerts are free and open to the public and feature artists like Meredith Andrews, Selah and Ellie Holcomb.  For more information, visit vacationwithpurpose.org or call (231) 798-2161.


Jazz at the Swan
July 15 @ 7:30 pm

Saturday, July 15 at 7:30pm, come to the White Swan Inn Bed and Breakfast for “Jazz at the Swan,” a fundraiser for the 8th Annual White Lake Chamber Music Festival!  This special backyard event will feature the Tom Hagen Trio. and is a benefit for the 8th annual White Lake Chamber Music Festival.  Tickets are only $15 and include wine and light hors d`oeuvres.  A limited number of tickets are available in advance at the Arts Council of White Lake Nuveen Center, the White Swan Inn, and at artswhitelake.org.

All proceeds will help underwrite the cost of the 2017 White Lake Chamber Music Festival, August 3-13.  More information about the Festival, including a full schedule, is available at whitelakechambermusicfestival.com.


Star Gazing Open House
July 15 @ 9:00 pm

The Muskegon Astronomical Society is a 501(C3) non-profit organization whose primary purpose is to enjoy and promote amateur astronomy.  The activities of the society give amateur astronomers opportunities to meet and share experiences with others interested in amateur astronomy.  The Society was founded in 1972, incorporated in 1978, and given 501(C3) non-profit status in 1987.  They have gone from a small dome in town to a multi-building complex at the Muskegon Wastewater System.  Today the society continues to flourish thanks to the hard work and dedication of its members.

You are invited to a Star Gazing Open House Saturday, July 15 at 9:22pm (sunset) at their observatory.  There is no charge.  They will be viewing the night sky with telescopes.  As you wait for night, you might get a tour of the facility or a presentation.  They’ll introduce you to amateur astronomy and have plenty of handouts on how to get started.  If an open house is cloudy, it’s cancelled.  If weather conditions are questionable, call (231) 777-1013 to find out the status of a particular event.

Come equipped!  Flashlights can be helpful for finding your way around in the dark, but should be kept directed toward the ground so as not to interfere with observing activities.  Insect repellent and warm clothing (particularly for feet, head and hands) are strongly encouraged during appropriate seasons.  While the clubhouse has heat and A/C, the rest of the facility is open to the night air.

If you wish to visit the facility at another date and time, wish to bring a group to an open house or wish to schedule a special open house, please contact them via email at mas@wmich-astro.org before the next regular meeting so they can schedule the manpower needed.


Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 16 @ 7:00 pm

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Sunday, July 16 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come watch as the Clippers take on the Loggers.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 07/10/17

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

JULY 10, 2017

6:30 P.M. WORK SESSION
7:00 P.M. BOARDMEETING

01. Pledge of Allegiance
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 6/26/2017
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Fire Department hire
B. Downtown Development Authority (DDA) formation—initiate the formation of DDA, approve district boundaries

08. New Business
A. Accept resignation from Sgt. Rick McCabe
B. Approval to fill Police Department vacancy
C. Discuss new website possibilities

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

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Blood

Why do we have blood? Where does it come from? –Norelle, Olympia, Wash.

Dear Norelle,

Our bodies have many living parts, like skin, muscle, brain and bones. Blood helps keep these parts alive and healthy. The system that moves our blood around the body is sort of like a city’s postal service, said my friend Astrid Suchy-Dicey.

Suchy-Dicey is a scientist at Washington State University who is really curious about blood. Her research helps people at risk for diseases.

She said it first helps to know that blood is actually made up of different things: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

If you think of your circulatory system like the postal service, mail carriers are the red blood cells. They transport important packages and letters (oxygen) over a vast network of streets and highways (blood vessels).

About a gallon and a half of blood circulates through the human body, dropping off these deliveries, 24 hours a day. The strong heart muscle pumps blood out into the body. It’s working hard, too. The force needed to squeeze a tennis ball is similar to what you need to squeeze blood out of the heart.

White blood cells help your body fight off infections. There are lots of different types of white blood cells with different jobs. Some of them fight off tiny bacteria and fungi. Some of them fight off viruses or other invaders.

All of the white blood cells’ jobs have one common mission: keeping you healthy.

Platelets help keep you healthy, too. Whenever you get a cut or scrape, these disc-shaped parts come to the rescue. Platelets help stop blood from flowing. They also help prevent you from losing blood and keep out invaders.
Plasma is a watery solution with a few other things floating in it, like salt and proteins. It flows, carrying other cells freely along those streets and highways we know as blood vessels.
As for your second question, Suchy-Dicey said that blood cells are produced in your bones. Specifically, they are produced in the soft fatty part inside your bones called bone marrow.

Your plasma is formed mostly using water you drink. That’s why it’s really important to drink enough water each day, Suchy-Dicey adds. While on the issue of water, here’s a quick activity you can try to find out about how much blood your heart pumps in a minute.

You’ll need a bucket of water, an empty bucket, and a small Dixie cup. Fill a bucket with about a gallon of water. Have a friend set a timer for one minute and see how many little cups of water you can move to the empty bucket.

Each time your heart beats it moves about a small Dixie cup’s worth of blood. It takes our heart about one minute to pump about a gallon of blood. Can you move the liquid faster than a heart? Try it out sometime and let me know how it works.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Submit a question of your own at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/ask

Follow-up video about why red blood cells look like donuts available at: https://askdruniverse.wsu.edu/2017/04/17/why-do-we-have-blood-where-does-it-come-from/

Mike Kraus Artwork featured at Art Cats Gallery, Muskegon

Art Cats Gallery is proud to feature the artwork of Mike Kraus. His pieces explore nature and our interaction with it. Using traditional paint on canvas, his work captures the vibrancy and solitude of our natural surroundings. “My focus is to extract the emotions of each scene and transform it on canvas by emphasizing the details that make the vision unique.” say Kraus. Visit Art Cats Gallery Tuesday – Saturday between 11am – 5pm.

About Mike Kraus
Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children’s Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

Art Cats Gallery
1845 Lakeshore Dr
Muskegon, Michigan
(231) 755-7606
fatcatclay@aol.com
http://artcatsgallery.com

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 07/03/17 – 07/10/10

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

 

West Michigan Wine and Jazz Festival
June 29 – July 4

June 29 – July 4 come to the White Lake Area to take part in the West Michigan Wine and Jazz Festival!  This is a five-day festival, based at The Book Nook Java Shop/Best Cellars Wine Bar in Downtown Montague. The festival will star leading solo and group musicians from the mitten state, as well as the national scene, who will play during evening Happy Hours and dinners.  There will also be special Showcase concerts at various local venues.  Highlights include a public concert at the Whitehall Gazebo in Goodrich Park followed by July 4th fireworks!

Festival passes are $60.  Tickets for individual shows vary.  Get details and buy tickets at www.westmichiganwinejazz.com.  For more information, call (231) 894-5333 or e-mail info@thebooknookjavashop.com.


Muskegon RockStock
July 3 – July 4

The 8th annual Muskegon Rockstock will be held on July 3-4 at beautiful Heritage Landing!  This popular festival began in 2008 as a way to showcase the local music scene and has been getting bigger and better every year.  The mission is to provide a rockin’ family event at a reasonable price that supports all things local. This year’s 2 day 4th of July celebration will feature lots of great food, Budweiser and Craft Beers, vendors, tried and true music and NEW this year, KIDSTOCK a Kangaroo Palace special event for kids of all ages!

Kicking things off and back by popular demand are the Crazy Babies – Ozzy Rebourne and Let There Be Rock (early AC DC) with The After Effect opening the show at 5:00pm on Monday July 3.

Spike the Media will start the 4th of July party on Tuesday, featuring The Echoes of Pink Floyd with their amazing laser show kicking off the always brilliant fireworks show at the end of the event.

Tickets are $5 per day and will be available at the Heritage landing Box Office each night starting at 4:30pm or you can purchase them online and pick up at will call.

-Active Military and Veterans FREE and HONORED.
-Children 10 and under in free(must be accompanied by an adult)
​-Kidstock opens at 5:30pm each night, and requires an additional wristband
​-Gates open at 5:00pm each night, with an amazing Fireworks finale at dusk on the 4th of July.

Event Rules:
• No Fireworks of any kind
• No Weapons
• No outside food or beverage
• ​No coolers

A Portion of the proceeds will benefit NO MORE SIDELINES.  See their website or facebook page for all the details at www.muskegonrockstock.com.


Lighthouse Tours
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Roll On Muskegon
July 3 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

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


Pack the Pier
July 4

The “Pack the Pier” boat rally and raft-up is happening Tuesday, July 4!  How many boats can we pack into the North or South Breakwater Cove?  We’ll find out while enjoying “The Lake Effect!”  Bring your coolers, rafts and loving spirit as you celebrate the 4th of July.  The Deck is Muskegon’s great beach restaurant and will provide music and refreshments.  They’re a short walk from the South Breakwater Cove.  Anchor and enjoy a great Michigan tradition!  For more information, visit www.lakeeffectboating.weebly.com.


Serene Yoga Summer Beach Yoga Series

Serene Yoga will be offering a new Summer Beach Yoga Series through August 31.  Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursday mornings from 10:00am – 11:00am and Friday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:00pm.  $10 drop-in rate.

Join Diana and enjoy the serenity of the Great Lakes as she guides you stretching and balancing poses while focusing on breath-work and relaxation.  This is a mind, body, spirit experience for the whole family.  This class is a biblical based perspective.  Meet at the beach.  Participants should bring a towel, sheet or yoga mat.  All new participants will be asked to fill out liability forms (please come early on your first visit).  Children under 17 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Check with your doctor if you have any concerns prior to taking this class.  For more information please contact Sereneyoga10@gmail.com or call 231-343-8381 (text for cancellation information).


White Lake 4th of July Parade & Fireworks
July 4 @ 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Beginning at 10:00am, the White Lake Area 4th of July Parade will travel from Whitehall City Hall to Downtown Montague.  Over 100 entries are involved in this family fun, annual parade.  Fireworks begin at dusk and are viewable in both downtown areas!  For more information, call (231) 893-4585.


Hidden History Scenic Cruise
July 4 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

$25.00

Tuesday, July 4 from 2:00pm – 3:30pm, board the Port City Princess for a “Hidden History Scenic Cruise!”  Did you know there’s an early 1900’s shipwreck
right outside the Muskegon Lake channel walls?  Discover the hidden history of Muskegon!  This cruise narrates fun facts while you enjoy the beautiful shorelines of Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan.  Snacks, soft drinks and a full bar are available for purchase.  The cost is $25 per person.  Please arrive a half hour before sail time.  For reservations or more information, call (231) 728-8387.


Montague Band Shell: Free Summer Concert Series
July 4 @ 7:00 pm

Throughout the summer, every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Montague Band Shell, join the Arts Council of White Lake (ACWL) for the Free Summer Concert Series!  In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Montague Area Public Schools Center for the Arts located at Montague High School. For more information, call 231-893-2524.

The Line-up:
• 06/20/17 – Uneven Ground
• 06/27/17 – Josh Davis
• 07/04/17 – Lakeshore Big Band
• 07/11/17 – Ben Bedford
• 07/18/17 – Scottville Clown Band
• 07/25/17 – Magic Bus
• 08/01/17 – The Moxie Strings
• 08/08/17 – West Michigan Winds
• 08/15/17 – Soul Syndicate
• 08/22/17 – Shook Twins


4th of July Fireworks Cruise
July 4 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Tuesday, July 4 from 8:00pm – 11:00pm, board the Port City Princess for a 4th of July Fireworks Cruise!  Enjoy a spectacular view of the fireworks over Muskegon Lake!  Dinner is a good old fashioned picnic meal of ham, fried chicken, apple pie, ice cream and more!  Reserve your spot now, this favorite fills up fast!  Visit to portcityprincess.com and click on ‘Reserve/Pay’ or call 231-728-8387 for more information.


Fireworks on Deck
July 4 @ 10:00 pm

Tuesday, July 4 at dusk, watch Muskegon’s fireworks from the best seat in the house aboard USS LST 393 Veterans Museum for just $5.  Bring a chair and sit on any of three decks.  Buy refreshments, enjoy the sunset and then watch the bombs bursting in air.  Parking is extra.  For more information, visit www.lst393.org.


Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place
July 5 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe!  All Cruise-In participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.


Lighthouse Tours
July 6 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Thursday Evenings are FREE at the Muskegon Museum of Art
July 6 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Every Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00pm, admission is free at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  One of the most highly respected art museums in the Midwest, the marbled halls of the MMA offer a full schedule of permanent collection displays, traveling exhibits and a lovely museum gift shop.  Be sure to check out Edward S. Curtis:  The North American Indian, an event of national significance celebrating the artistic genius and lasting cultural legacy of Edward Curtis, an early-1900s photographer who sacrificed everything for his art, died in obscurity, but left behind one of the greatest artistic collaborations and photographic achievements in history.  The exhibition will run May 11 through September 10, 2017.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.


Opening Reception: Skateboard Exhibit at Nuveen
July 6 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

The Arts Council of White Lake is keeping things fresh this summer with art displayed on crispy clean skateboard decks!  Local adults and youth have come together to create their own custom decks that will look great on display and even better beneath your feet!  Roll over to The Nuveen Center July 6 – September 1 to enjoy this exhibit.  There will be an opening reception July 6, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm with refreshments sponsored by Fetch Brewing Co.

The Arts Council of White Lake provides numerous opportunities to view, listen to, create and learn from the arts, and gives support and encouragement to artists and arts organizations.  Hours are 10:00am – 5:00pm, Tuesday – Saturday.  For more information call 231-893-2524 or find them online at www.artswhitelake.org or on Facebook.


Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 6 @ 7:00 pm – July 7 @ 7:00 pm

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Thursday, July 6 and Friday, July 7 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come and watch as the Clippers take on the Loggers.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.


2017 Summer Theatre Festival
July 6 @ 7:30 pm

The 2017 Summer Theatre Festival at Howmet Playhouse happens every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from July 6 through August 19! All Shows Begin at 7:30 pm (Unless otherwise noted). Become a Member now for the best value. Make a single purchase, then pick and choose the plays you wish to attend. You will have the opportunity to select your desired membership level as part of the purchase process. Single Show Tickets are $21 for adults and $17 for students. Theater Box Office Hours are weekdays from 1:00 – 5:00pm from July 5 through August 18 and one hour before curtain.

• July 6-8 The Seamstress
• July 13-15 CMU Triple Show Weekend
• July 20-22 The Birds
• July 27-29 WLYT: The Rememberer
• August 3-5 Fox on the Fairway
• August 10-12 The Seafarer
• August 17-18 Exit Laughing

Auditons will be announced soon! For more information, visit the website below or call (231) 894-4048.


Lakeshore Art Festival
July 7 – July 8

The Lakeshore Art Festival is now in its 5th year and bigger and better than ever!  July 7-8, as many as 300 fine art and craft booths will line Western Ave. and Hackley Park.  During the festival, downtown Muskegon will be packed with live and interactive arts, street performers, musicians, magicians and more.  The Lakeshore Art Festival was recognized by Sunshine Artist Magazine as one of the top 100 art festivals in the country!  Check back for more details as they become available or e-mail artfest@muskegon.org.


Muskegon Lumbertown Challenge
July 7 – July 9

Friday through Sunday, July 7 – 9, fishermen of all ages are invited to be part of the Muskegon Lumbertown Challenge!  The tournament will be held at Great Lakes Marina, featuring “no boundaries” fishing in Muskegon.  This is an open division tournament, no observers, open communication with a catch 15 weigh 5 fish limit each day.  The Big Fish is 100% payout with separate pots for the Open Division, the Women’s Division and the Kids’ Division.  The Women’s and Kids’ tournament will benefit the Terry Weber Michigan Stinger Memorial and will take place on Friday, July 7.  10% of the entry fees will go to the memorial fund.  The captains meeting for both events will be held at Great Lakes Marina on Thursday, July 6 at 7:00pm.  Registration starts at 5:00pm.  The results and prize ceremony for the main event will be held Sunday afternoon.  For more information, call Don Johnson at 231-206-0048.


Muskegon Lumbertown Challenge
July 7 – July 9

Friday through Sunday, July 7 – 9, fishermen of all ages are invited to be part of the Muskegon Lumbertown Challenge!  The tournament will be held at Great Lakes Marina, featuring “no boundaries” fishing in Muskegon.  This is an open division tournament, no observers, open communication with a catch 15 weigh 5 fish limit each day.  The Big Fish is 100% payout with separate pots for the Open Division, the Women’s Division and the Kids’ Division.  The Women’s and Kids’ tournament will benefit the Terry Weber Michigan Stinger Memorial and will take place on Friday, July 7.  10% of the entry fees will go to the memorial fund.  The captains meeting for both events will be held at Great Lakes Marina on Thursday, July 6 at 7:00pm.  Registration starts at 5:00pm.  The results and prize ceremony for the main event will be held Sunday afternoon.  For more information, call Don Johnson at 231-206-0048.


The Code Talkers of World War II
July 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

July 7 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum for the lecture, Code Talkers of World War II!  This special lecture will feature Peter MacDonald (born 1928), a Native American politician, the only four term Chairman of the Navajo Tribe and a member of the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II who served as a Navajo Code Talker.  McDonald will talk about the critical contributions that Native Americans made to victory in World War II.  For more information, call (231) 755-1230.


STEAMPUNK ART EXHIBITION
July 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Friday, July 7 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to the Muskegon Center for the Arts at The Red Lotus Gallery for the opening reception of their Steampunk Art Exhibition!

Every month there is a different display and art themed event.  The art display lasts for the entire month and you can meet and talk with the artists and view the creativity of local awesome art work during the reception.  Refreshments will be provided.  For more information, visit www.muskegonca.org or www.facebook.com/redlotusgallery.


Beers, Brats and Bluegrass Aboard the Princess
July 7 @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

$35.3 – $35.35

Friday, July 7 from 7:00pm – 9:30pm, come aboard the Port City Princess for Beers, Brats & Bluegrass!  Slug back a few beers, scarf down a few brats, and then get your dance on with the best party on the Great Lakes!  The cost is $35 per person plus a $3 surcharge.  For reservations or more information, call 800-853-6311.


2017 Summer Theatre Festival
July 7 @ 7:30 pm

The 2017 Summer Theatre Festival at Howmet Playhouse happens every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from July 6 through August 19! All Shows Begin at 7:30 pm (Unless otherwise noted). Become a Member now for the best value. Make a single purchase, then pick and choose the plays you wish to attend. You will have the opportunity to select your desired membership level as part of the purchase process. Single Show Tickets are $21 for adults and $17 for students. Theater Box Office Hours are weekdays from 1:00 – 5:00pm from July 5 through August 18 and one hour before curtain.

• July 6-8 The Seamstress
• July 13-15 CMU Triple Show Weekend
• July 20-22 The Birds
• July 27-29 WLYT: The Rememberer
• August 3-5 Fox on the Fairway
• August 10-12 The Seafarer
• August 17-18 Exit Laughing

For more information, call (231) 894-4048.


Full Moon Float
July 8 @ 12:00 am

At midnight during each full moon from May through September, Guy’s Ultimate Kayak Service will be guiding a “Full Moon Float” down the Muskegon River!  They begin at the Creston Rd. launch and end at Veterans Memorial Park.  The cost is only $20 per person and includes a kayak, paddle, life jacket and a glow stick.  The dates for 2017 are May 10, June 9, July 8, August 5, September 8 and October 6.  All the full moon floats depend on mostly clear skies and take 1-2 hours.  Call Guy to reserve a kayak today at 231-740-0227.


Stand Up For the Cure
July 8 @ 8:00 am

Saturday, July 8 at 8:00am, come to Harbor Towne Beach to “Stand Up for the Cure!”  Have fun and save lives with a day of Stand-Up paddling in support of the of the Susan G Komen Foundation. There will be professional SUP instructors, fun races, happy hour beer, wine and a delicious lunch as part of this fantastic event!  Standup event proceeds go to the local affiliates of Susan G. Komen.  Each affiliate uses 75% of the net proceeds to fund local life-saving education, screening, diagnostics, treatment and survivorship programs.  The remaining 25% is invested in global breast cancer research.  You can learn more about the local affiliates’ programs by visiting their pages and more about Komen’s global research at www.Komen.org.


Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show and Benefit
July 8 @ 10:00 am

Saturday, July 8 at 10:00am, everyone is invited to the Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show, a benefit supporting veteran suicide awareness and prevention! Your $5 entry includes a door prize ticket and a voting card for the show.  The cost to participate in the show is $10 with your chance at one of 3 trophies that are up for grabs.  There’ll be kids’ activities like a bounce house, games, a photo booth and face painting, as well as a silent auction, raffles, door prizes, live music a pig roast and bonfire!  All proceeds will be donated to Mission 22.  The location is just north of Babbit’s Sports Center on Getty St., so watch for the signs.  For more information or show car registration please e-mail heykoopVeteranMemorial@gmail.com.

• Car Show Line Up – 8:30am
• Gates Open – 10:00am
• Pig Roast – 5:00pm
• Bonfire – Dusk


Super Saturday: Michigan Indian Tribes
July 8 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

July 8 from 10:00am – 3:00pm, bring the whole family to the Muskegon Museum of Art for Super Saturday:  Michigan Indian Tribes!  This free family fun day features special guided tours of the Edward S. Curtis exhibition, film screenings and craft activities.  Admission is free and so are the activities.  Explore and celebrate the rich heritage and culture of the many tribes that are a founding part of Michigan.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.


Sunset Lighthouse Tours
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering sunset tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Saturdays in July from 5:00-8:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 8 @ 7:00 pm – July 9 @ 7:00 pm

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues.  In 2016 alone, the Great Lakes League had over 30 players drafted in the MLB draft, including the #11 overall pick, Kyle Lewis who played for the Lima Locos!  This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon!

Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, come watch as the Clippers take on the Green Giants.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.


Summer Concert Series
July 8 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Join Maranatha every Saturday at 7:00pm for their summer concert series!  All concerts are free and open to the public and feature artists like Meredith Andrews, Selah and Ellie Holcomb.  This week it’s the Matthew Brothers. For more information visit vacationwithpurpose.org or call (231) 798-2161.


Retro Expo
July 9 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Sunday, July 9 from 11:00am – 3:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the “Retro Expo!”  Enjoy an outdoor vintage market filled with vendors selling retro goods and up-cycled items.  It’s more than a flea market, it’s a nostalgic shopping experience.  For more information, call 231-722-325


Braveheart Raptor Rehabilitation Center
July 9 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

The purpose of the center is to rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned raptors and return them to the wild in a healthy condition. The center is open to the public from June through October two days per month, the 2nd Thursday and 2nd Sunday of each month from 1:00pm-4:00pm for tours. No admission fee. When you visit the center you will see a number of different species of raptors, including eagles, owls and falcons. In addition to the birds, they have hands on activities to learn more about raptors. They are handicap accessible. Please call in advance to be sure they are open.


Howling Harbor! Muskegon Artists’ Market
July 9 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Harbor Cinema hosts an indoor Artists’ Market every second Sunday of the month from 2:00-4:00pm.  The market features live performances by a variety of talented Muskegon performers as well as local artists and crafters.  For more information, call 231-375-5228.


Camp Hogwarts
July 10 @ 9:00 am – July 14 @ 2:00 pm

Monday – Friday, July 10 – 14 from 9:00am – 2:00pm, bring the kids to the Book Nook & Java Shop for “Camp Hogwarts!”

The Ministry of Magic is pleased to announce that 16 lucky young Muggles will be accepted to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry this summer! Wizards and witches will receive training in Potions, History of Magic, Charms, Care of Magical Creatures, and Defense Against the Dark Arts.  All students will be required to sit for their O.W.L.s (Ordinary Wizarding Levels) at the end of the week- NO EXCEPTIONS.  Please note: It is important that all students have read at least the first book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, to fully experience this camp.

$125 includes instruction, field trips, craft materials, plus morning & afternoon healthy snacks.  Bring your own lunch or $5 to purchase lunch (including beverage).  For more information or to register, call 231-894-5333.


Guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto
July 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Monday, July 10 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Library for live music from guitarist, Hiroya Tsukamoto!  He’ll take you on an innovative, impressionistic journey
filled with earthy, organic soundscapes that impart a mood of peace and tranquility.

Hiroya Tsukamoto is a guitarist and composer originally from Kyoto, Japan. In 2000, he received a scholarship to Berklee College of Music and came to the US. Since then, he has been performing internationally including several appearances with his group at Blue Note in New York and released six albums as a leader. And he also performed and appeared on major televisions internationally such as NHK (Japanese National Television) and EBS in Korea.  For more information, call 231-722-8000.

Brought to you through the generosity of the A. J. Flogge Performing Arts Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County.


Roll On Muskegon
July 10 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

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

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation Awards the Ottawa County Parks Foundation $125,000

The grant was awarded for the Grand River Explorers Trail – Stearns Bayou Connector and is payable over two years.

Over the past two decades, a primary focus of the Ottawa County Parks Department has been its $41 million Grand River Greenway Initiative, with the goal of protecting thousands of acres of natural lands, creating green infrastructure, developing new recreational opportunities, and connecting communities.

grandr“So far, $20 million in mostly public funding has been invested to preserve over 2,400 of land and create 13 parks and open spaces along the Greenway. Over the next five years, Ottawa County Parks proposes to invest an additional $21 million to acquire 1,000 acres of land and construct 27 miles of new multi-modal pathway,” said Ottawa County Parks Director John Scholtz.

This investment will create recreational, educational, conservation and historic attractions by protecting some the highest quality land remaining along the river, connecting the greenway properties to each other, and completing the most critical remaining unfinished link in the regional pathway system – a trail, the Grand River Explorers Trail, connecting Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Grand Valley State University.

Right to Life of Michigan Encourages Governor Snyder to Sign Choose Life Plate Bill

Right to Life of Michigan is encouraging Governor Rick Snyder to sign legislation to create a Choose Life license plate in Michigan.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, “We hope Governor Snyder will realize the wonderful opportunity this plate offers to support pregnant women in need.”

A Choose Life license plate would cost $35, with $10 paying for the cost of manufacturing the plate. The extra $25 in fees would go to a Choose Life Michigan fund. Grants from the fund will be given to specific projects to promote adoption and other alternatives to abortion, provide practical help to pregnant women, and suicide prevention programs.

Michigan would become the 32nd state to offer a Choose Life license plate as an option to their citizens. Michigan would have the only Choose Life plate in the nation that also funds suicide prevention efforts.

Listing said, “It’s time for Michigan to join every other state on the I-75 corridor down to Florida. Many Michiganders see Choose Life plates while driving in other states and they want the same opportunity for us to increase support for pregnant women in need.”

Legislation to create the Choose Life plate passed in a bipartisan 65 to 43 vote in the Michigan House on May 25. It first passed the Senate on April 28 by a 25 to 11 vote and received a final procedural vote on June 6.

Choose Life plates would first be available in 2018 if signed into law. The Secretary of State must approve the design of the new plate and then work through the manufacturing and distribution process, which takes approximately nine months.

Michigan law requires fundraising license plates to sell a minimum of 2,000 plates the first year, and 500 new plates each year for 5 additional years in order to continue offering the design.

 

Right to Life of Michigan | 616-532-2300
info@rtl.org | www.RTL.org
2340 Porter St SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49509

Ask Dr. Universe – Meat

Why does meat get brown on the grill? –Christina, 9, Seattle, Wash.

Dear Christina,

You know summer is just around the corner when the smell of barbecue is in the air. It’s a great question you ask and it leads us to the Meats Lab at Washington State University. That’s where I met up with my friend and animal scientist, Jan Busboom.

He’s really curious about animal nutrition and the meat we eat. Busboom explained that meat is muscle. It has a lot of different proteins. These proteins have different jobs. One of them delivers oxygen to the cells that make up muscles. It’s a protein called myoglobin.

Believe it or not, the red liquid we see in a package of meat comes primarily from myoglobin. The more myoglobin there is in a muscle cell, the redder the meat will look. Myoglobin is a big part of why meat is red in the first place—but it’s also part of the reason it turns brown on the grill, too.

Like almost everything on our planet, a hamburger is made up of atoms. As you may know, atoms get together to form molecules. These parts are arranged in ways that give things certain colors, tastes, and smells.

As is often the case when we heat up something, its atoms and molecules often start to move, or vibrate faster and faster. Then they transform.

When we heat up the hamburger meat, the myoglobin structure begins to change. Myoglobin loses its ability to bind onto oxygen. There’s also a change in one of the iron atoms at the center of the myoglobin.

These changes are happening on very small scale. But we can actually see the changes as the red meat transforms into a juicy brown hamburger patty.

It turns out color isn’t always the best sign that a burger is ready to eat. Busboom said sometimes a burger won’t brown on the grill. Even if it’s fully cooked, it will stay red.

On the flip side, sometimes a burger that is brown isn’t actually cooked. This is because there may be some other chemical factors going on here that influence color. That’s why it’s really important to use a thermometer and make sure your meat is safe to eat.

Not only does a burger’s chemistry influence color, but also its taste and smell. When we heat it up, proteins and sugars in the meat start to break down.

It was the French chemist Louis Camille Maillard (my-YAR) who discovered the way this works. When the Maillard reaction happens, it creates thousands of new chemical compounds that give meat flavor.

Yes, there’s a whole bunch of science happening right there on the grill. I suppose you might even say the grill master is a bit of a scientist.

Can you think of other kinds of science that go into building the perfect burger? Tell me about it sometime at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

 
Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Submit a question of your own at http://askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/ask

Summer Meals for Kids

Meet Up and Eat Up sites in Ottawa County

The Meet Up and Eat Up Summer Food Service Program was created to provide anyone 18 years of age and younger free nutritious meals during long school vacations. The program is available at locations throughout Ottawa County; serving breakfast, lunch and/or snacks during the summer months.

For more information and locations throughout Michigan, go to www.michigan.gov/sfsp, or see the Ottawa County locations & times flyer here.

“Meet Up and Eat Up is a great way to ensure all children receive healthy and nourishing meals, even when school is out of session. This important program is free and open to all children 18 years and younger. We work with a variety of community partners to provide activities at many sites as well. It’s exciting to offer food, educational enrichment, physical activity and social engagement throughout the summer months,” said Amy Sheele, health educator with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health.

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is a Child Nutrition Program that uses meal patterns similar to those used in other federal child nutrition programs. The SFSP is operated at the local level by program sponsors and is administered in Michigan by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), Office of School Support Services. To receive meals at a Meet Up and Eat Up site, participants must be 18 years of age or younger or (regardless of age) disabled. An individual is determined to be mentally or physically disabled by the MDE or a local public educational agency (school district or public school academy).

Contact:
Amy Sheele, Health Educator
(616)393-5799 or asheele@miottawa.org

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Minutes – June 12, 2017

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 12, 2017

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, June 12, 2017, in the township board room.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Ron Becklin, Greg Hulka (arrived at 7:50pm, tardiness excused), Jeff Jacobs, and Denise Winebarger. Members Absent: none

At 7:02pm, Heidi Tice opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer.

Also Present: 15– residents, 0 – employees, 0- guests, Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli, and Director of Public Utilities, Ron Langlois.

The motion by Ron Becklin, supported by Denise Winebarger, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of May 22, 2017 as presented with the following changes:

Item 17-077
WAS:
a) A DDA would be of benefit to property owners within the DDA district.
f) The school district would lose a portion of the tax dollars that would be captured by the DDA.

CORRECTED:
a) A DDA would be of benefit to the township and property owners within the DDA district.
f) The school district would lose the incremental growth of tax dollars that would be captured by the DDA.

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

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS

1) Michigan Townships Association legislative updates of May 26 & June 9, 2017.
2) There will be a day of review for the drainage district boundaries for the Bussing Drain, Wednesday, June
21, 2017 from 9:00am-5:00pm at the Muskegon County Drain Commissioner’s Office located at 141 E.
Apple Ave, 2nd floor, Muskegon, MI 49442
3) Population growth report for Muskegon County ranked the population growth for the Township and
Village of Fruitport at 3.4% with the rest of the county’s growth rates ranging between .2% and 1.7%.
4) Ron Langlois reported that the Vandenberg/Summit water main project is complete. The township will be accepting applications for connection immediately.
5) Ron Langlois reported that the Broadway Lift Station refurbishing will begin next week and should take approximately 3 weeks for completion.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:

1) Dawn Diesel, 2958 Vandenberg, questioned when mailboxes will be replaced now that the water main project is complete. Ron Langlois said it would be done tomorrow.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

17-082 Review employment contract for Deputy Chief of Police
Brian Michelli asked that the Board review and bring the topic back at the next meeting.

17-083 Resolution for Mt. Garfield Rd road improvement
Project is in line to be completed over the summer.

Rose Dillon moved, supported by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution and authorize the Township Supervisor to execute the contract on behalf of the Township.

Ayes: Becklin, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger Nays: None Absent: Hulka

17-084 Discussion on the formation of a DDA
Highlights of the discussion include:

a) A DDA committee would be appointed by the Township Board
b) The committee would formulate a plan that would require Township Board approval
c) DDA money could be spend on various degrees of property improvement
d) More tax dollars would be kept locally vs. trickling to other taxing authorities

Mr. Odell Ellis, 2339 Cress Creek Drive inquired on what a DDA is, will it be of benefit to the residents, and will it increase taxes.
Answer: a Downtown District Authority will benefit the area as a whole and will not increase taxes.

17-085 Rental Inspection status update
The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Ron Becklin, was carried unanimously to TABLE this topic until the next meeting.

17-086 Discussion on special assessment for Public Safety
Brian Michelli asked the board to determine how the assessment would be allocated, be it an assessment on a district as a whole or site specific and whether each entity would be allowed a predetermined number of calls per year before the assessment would take effect.

It was broken down that the cost of running calls for the police department is $142.50/hour.

It was requested that this topic be brought back in front of the Board at the next meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

17-087 Public Hearing- Special Assessment District Vandenberg/Summit road improvement

(a.) Rose Dillon moved, seconded by Jeff Jacobs MOTION CARRIED, to open the Public Hearing at 7:36pm.

Ayes: Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Becklin Nays: none Absent: Hulka

(b.) Public Hearing: The Supervisor announced that this hearing is to hear public comment and accept written objections regarding the setting of a special assessment district for road improvements on Vandenberg Rd and Summit Ave. The assessment amount would be divided equally and assessed per parcel per the request of the residents, totaling $3,976 per parcel on Summit Ave and $1,760 per parcel on Vandenberg Rd. The residents would have the option of paying up front or having the amount added in equal installments to their tax bill at 6% interest.

Kevin Sikkinga, 2875 Vandenberg, shared questions inquiring if the idea came from board resolution or resident petitions, what percent of residents signed in favor, what are the costs, how is it assessed, and are residents required to hook up to the newly completed water supply. Kevin shared his disapproval of the assessment.

Cindy Beckwith, 1931 E. Broadway, questioned why her property was included in the assessment district since Summit only runs on the backside of her property. She also inquired if there were any plans to force Walmart to pay for the water main project claiming that they are responsible for the high sodium level in the well water.

Molly Wahr, 2924 Vandenberg, inquired if the project would result in a new road or simply tar and gravel added on top. Also, what percent of the cost is the Muskegon County Road Commission covering?

The Pressey residence,1901 E. Summit Ave asked when the project would begin and how would homes be connected to the new water supply once the road is complete.

Written objections were received by the board from Kevin Sikkinga, Odell Elis, and Jeffery Beckwith.

(c.) The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Ron Becklin, was carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing at 8:30pm and return to open session.

Ron Becklin moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt Resolution to authorize procedures to set up a special assessment district for Vandenberg Rd/Summit Ave road improvements.

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

Ron Becklin moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt resolution scheduling the public hearing on the setting of the assessment roll for Vandenberg Rd/Summit Ave road improvement special assessment district No. 2017-1.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Becklin Nays: none

Full text of said resolutions can be found on file in the Clerk’s office. Filed with documentation on SAD 2017-1

17-088 Approval of State Chemical Solutions agreement
This agreement is to provide solvents such as car wash, degreaser, glass cleaner, hand soap, and the like to the public safety department. It will be a cost savings to the department.

Rose Dillon moved, supported by Denise Winebarger, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize Brian Michelli to enter into the agreement and sign the contract.

Ayes: Becklin, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka Nays: none

17-089 Approval of funds transfer for previously approved air packs for the Fire Department
Ron Becklin moved, supported by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to approve a transfer of not more than $80,000 from the General Fund to the Public Safety fund, effective March 31, 2017.

Ayes: Becklin, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka Nays: none

17-090 New website discussion
Heidi Tice asked that, for the sake of time, this item be TABLED until the next meeting.

17-091 Adoption of MTA’s Principles of Governance
Board members expressed that the oath they took upon entering office declared similar sentiments, therefore did not see the need to make motion; topic was dropped.

17-092 Payment of bills
Ron Becklin moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $23,471.46; Public Safety $33,217.92; Water $199,918.84; Sewer $17,881.62; Street Lights $12,795.50; Trust & Agency $1,645.00     Totaling: $289,610.09

Ayes: Becklin, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:

1)     Andrea Anderson announced that Fruitport Charter Township now has a Facebook page that will be used to share community happenings and such.
2)     Andrea Anderson shared that the Township is working on fundraising for the large 9-11 memorial flag flown at I-96 and US-31. Any donations can be made at Town Hall.
3)     Brian Michelli reported that new fire hose, boots, helmets, and gloves have been ordered and should come in under budget.
4)     Brian Michelli reported that the TV in the Chambers Board Room has been hooked up to allow its use for presentations.
5)     Brian Michelli reported that both the police and fire departments’ call volumes are ahead of last year.
6) Brian Michelli shared tax collection and disbursement numbers for Westshore Plaza
7)     Brian Michelli reported that Fruitport’s first Community Day was a success. Residents came out and enjoyed participating in stations from each of the township’s departments. Thank you to the Fruitport
Lions for providing food for the event.
8)     Heidi Tice announced that the next Community event will be a large slip ‘n slide at Pamona Park on July 22, 2017 from 11:00am-1:00pm.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:

1) Rick Tice, 63 S. Eighth, commented on areas of Town Hall that need maintenance or repair.

The motion by Greg Hulka, supported by Ron Becklin was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 9:16pm.

 

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK         HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

Preserving Michigan’s Lighthouses

Secretary Johnson, MSHDA Director Poleski promote fundraising plate

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s lighthouse license plate has a new design and Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Executive Director Earl Poleski are promoting it as a way to help preserve the iconic structures on the state’s shorelines.

sosandpoleski“Michigan is a state of wondrous natural resources and breathtaking beauty,” Secretary Johnson said. “Scattered along the edges of its peninsulas, our Great Lakes State also has more than a hundred lighthouses that are majestic to behold and exciting to explore. We need to keep them in good condition for everyone to enjoy.”

Buying a Save Our Lights license plate helps preserve Michigan’s historic lighthouses. When a plate is purchased, $25 of the $35 additional fee and all $10 of subsequent fees go toward the Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program, administered by the State Historic Preservation Office at MSHDA. Since 2000, the program has awarded more than $2 million in grants to lighthouse stewards for the rehabilitation of these historic structures.

“The Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program enables the State Historic Preservation Office to help lighthouse stewards preserve these beacons for all of us,” Poleski said. “Because of the generosity of people who pay a little extra for a Save Our Lights license plate, we are able to award grants to local communities committed to rehabilitating and protecting these beautiful structures for the long term.”

The new lighthouse license plate design was intended to be more representative of all of the state’s lighthouses. The old plate featured a specific lighthouse, the White Shoal Light. Lighthouses have been protecting ships from treacherous waters in Michigan since the establishment of the state’s first lighthouse, the Fort Gratiot Light, in 1825. More than 240 lighthouses once guarded Michigan’s shores. Today, only 124 of these iconic structures remain.

For more information about the Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program and to order a Save Our Lights license plate, visit michigan.gov/saveourlights.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events June 26 to July 3, 2017

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Monday, June 26

Lighthouse Tours
June 26 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.

Roll On Muskegon
June 26 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
June 26 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Tuesday June 27, 2017

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
June 27 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Montague Band Shell: Free Summer Concert Series
June 27 @ 7:00 pm
An event every week that begins at 7:00pm on Tuesday, repeating until August 22, 2017
Montague Bandshell, 8636 Water St.
Throughout the summer, every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Montague Band Shell, join the Arts Council of White Lake (ACWL) for the Free Summer Concert Series!  In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Montague Area Public Schools Center for the Arts located at Montague High School. For more information, call 231-893-2524.

Wednesday June 28, 2017

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place
June 28 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fricano’s Event Center, 1050 W. Western
Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe! For more information, call 231-722-7775.

Thursday June 29, 2017

West Michigan Wine and Jazz Festival
June 29 – July 4
Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St.
Come to the White Lake Area to take part in the West Michigan Wine and Jazz Festival!  This is a five-day festival, based at The Book Nook Java Shop/Best Cellars Wine Bar in Downtown Montague. The festival will star leading solo and group musicians from the mitten state, as well as the national scene, who will play during evening Happy Hours and dinners.  There will also be special Showcase concerts at various local venues.  Highlights include a public concert at the Whitehall Gazebo in Goodrich Park followed by July 4th fireworks! Festival passes are $60.  Tickets for individual shows vary.  Get details and buy tickets at www.westmichiganwinejazz.com.  For more information, call (231) 894-5333 or e-mail info@thebooknookjavashop.com.

Maranda Park Party
June 29 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Smith Ryerson Park, 550 Wood St. at Sumner Ave.
Bring the family to Smith-Ryerson Park and get ready to rock the park with Maranda!  This season marks the 23rd consecutive year that Maranda will bring great entertainment, a huge variety of attractions, great community resources from local nonprofits and a ton of prizes to local communities in West Michigan. Free lunch will be served to anyone 18 and under starting at 11:30am, while supplies last.  For more information, call WOTV at 616-456-8888. 

Thursday Evenings are FREE at the Muskegon Museum of Art
June 29 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 West Webster Avenue
Every Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00pm, admission is free at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  One of the most highly respected art museums in the Midwest, the marbled halls of the MMA offer a full schedule of permanent collection displays, traveling exhibits and a lovely museum gift shop.  Be sure to check out Edward S. Curtis:  The North American Indian, an event of national significance celebrating the artistic genius and lasting cultural legacy of Edward Curtis, an early-1900s photographer who sacrificed everything for his art, died in obscurity, but left behind one of the greatest artistic collaborations and photographic achievements in history.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Friday June 30, 2017

Lighthouse Tours
June 30 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org. 

Party in the Park: The After Effect
June 30 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Hackley Park, City block bounded by Webster and Clay and Third and Fourth Streets
For more than 30 year’s Parties in the Park has been a Muskegon institution providing Friday evening entertainment, free admission and a family-friendly atmosphere!  Be a part of the tradition and enjoy a summer evening with us downtown in Hackley Park.  There are always five local Muskegon food vendors at every party, there’s something for everyone to purchase. June 30, the band is the After Effect, hosted by the Muskegon Motorcycle Club.  Happy hour is from 5:00pm-6:00pm with the night ending at 9:00pm.  For more information e-mail info@partiesinthepark.com.

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
June 30 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Summer Concerts on the Depot Lawn
June 30 @ 7:00 pm
An event every week that begins at 7:00pm on Friday, repeating until June 30, 2017
Union Depot, 610 W. Western Ave.
The West Michigan Concerts WINDS Sousa Band will perform at The Depot in downtown Muskegon.  Concerts run from 7:00 – 8:00pm and are FREE and open to the public.  Bring your blanket or lawn chair for an enjoyable evening on the Depot Lawn.  The Depot will be open with ADA-accessible restrooms for guests’ convenience.  For more information, call Visit Muskegon at 231-724-3100.

The Gordon Lightfoot Tribute
June 30 @ 7:30 pm
Howmet Playhouse, 304 South Mears Ave.
Visit the historic Howmet Playhouse for The Gordon Lightfoot Tribute! In 2007 Mackinaw City guitarist Mike Fornes assembled a band of four backing musicians for a salute to Canadian balladeer Gordon Lightfoot.  The group’s work has developed into a stunning theatre show that replicates the Lightfoot concert experience.  For more information, call (231) 894-4048 

Movies on Deck: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
June 30 @ 9:30 pm
USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, 560 Mart St.
Sunsets, sea breezes and superstars…they’re all on deck at USS LST 393 Veterans Museum for the popular “Movies on Deck,” most Friday nights this summer on Muskegon’s downtown waterfront.  The films are shown on LST 393’s huge screen on the top deck starting right after sunset, around 10:00pm.  In August, films start about 9:30pm. There is no charge to attend although donations to help support the ship’s restoration and veterans museum are always welcome. Moviegoers should bring their own chairs and weather-appropriate clothing.  Popcorn, soda and snacks are available for sale. Inclement weather will mean a move down inside the giant tank deck of the ship for an indoor showing at 10:00pm. LST 393 is located at the Mart Dock adjacent to Heritage Landing county park on the downtown Muskegon waterfront. Tour hours are 10:00am – 5:00pm seven days a week with the last tour starting at 4:00pm. For more information, call 231-730-1477 or visit www.lst393.org.

Saturday July 1, 2017

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 1 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Montague Artisan Market
July 1 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Montague Farmers’ Market, Church St. at Water St.
The first Saturday of the month, June through September from 9:00am – 1:00pm, come enjoy family-friendly fun and lively environment at the Montague Artisan Market, adjacent to the Farmers Market.  A variety of vendors will be selling their handmade items including soap, jewelry, crafts and other art items. Come support local artists and find unique gifts for yourself or a loved one!  For more information, call 231-893-1155.

Garden Walk

Click to see larger image.

Summer Splendor Garden Walk
July 1 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Muskegon Count Garden Club Garden Walk, 913 W. Wellington Court
The Muskegon County Garden Club, Inc. invites you to join them for the “Summer Splendor Garden Walk!  Visit eight beautiful gardens in Muskegon for only $10.00.  Children under 12 are free.  For more information, call Rick Peters at 231-798-2915. Tickets are available at the Muskegon Convention & Visitors Bureau and from club members or at each home on the day of the walk. There will be refreshments and a plant & garden art sale along the way. This event is RAIN or SHINE. 

 

White Lake Nature Walks
July 1 @ 10:30 am
White Lake Chamber of Commerce, 124 W. Hanson St.
Discover the beauty of the White Lake area!  Local naturalists will lead guided tours of local natural areas and cover a variety of topics relating to native plants and wildlife.  The walks are appropriate for adults and families, no children allowed without parents. Walks begin at 10:30am sharp and last until approximately noon. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.  Bring water and snacks if needed.  Other optional items include:  sunscreen, hat, umbrella, binoculars, sketchpad, and pencils or pens.  Walks will take place regardless of weather, unless conditions are unsafe.  Please call 231-893-4585 to confirm or if you have questions.

Sunset Lighthouse Tours
July 1 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering sunset tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Saturdays in July from 5:00-8:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.

Summer Concert Series
July 1 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Maranatha Bible and Missionary Conference Tabernacle, 4759 Lake Harbor Road
Join Maranatha every Saturday at 7:00pm for their summer concert series!  All concerts are free and open to the public and feature artists like Meredith Andrews, Selah and Ellie Holcomb.  For more information visit vacationwithpurpose.org or call (231) 798-2161.

Sunday July 2, 2017

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 2 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Monday July 3, 2017

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
July 3 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.
Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

Muskegon RockStock
July 3 – July 4
Heritage Landing, 1050 7th St.
The 8th annual Muskegon Rockstock will be held on July 3-4 at beautiful Heritage Landing! The mission is to provide a rockin’ family event at a reasonable price that supports all things local. This years 2 day 4th of July celebration will feature lots of great food, Budweiser and Craft Beers, vendors, tried and true music and NEW this year, KIDSTOCK a Kangaroo Palace special event for kids of all ages! Kicking things off and back by popular demand are the Crazy Babies – Ozzy Rebourne and Let There Be Rock (early AC DC) with The After Effect opening the show at 5:00pm on Monday July 3. Spike the Media will start the 4th of July party on Tuesday, featuring The Echoes of Pink Floyd with their amazing laser show kicking off the always brilliant fireworks show at the end of the event. A Portion of the proceeds will benefit NO MORE SIDELINES.  See their website or facebook page for all the details at www.muskegonrockstock.com.

Lighthouse Tours
July 3 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July and August from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.

 Roll On Muskegon
July 3 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Please visit www.visitmuskegon.org for a complete list of events.
Our office will be closed Tuesday, July 4. We will be open Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Grand Rapid Abortionist has License Suspended, Fined $10,000

thomasgordonGrand Rapids abortionist Thomas Gordon’s criminal record has finally caught up with him. Effective April 26 the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) will fine Gordon $10,000 and suspend his medical license pending successful completion of a rehabilitation program.

Right to Life of Michigan Barbara Listing said, “It’s about time. For decades Thomas Gordon has plied his deadly trade in downtown Grand Rapids, taking thousands and thousands of lives. It’s good when the abortion industry is finally held accountable.”

The complaint from LARA stems from Gordon’s failure to inform health regulators of his many criminal convictions.

Gordon has an arrest record in Michigan dating back to 1991, when he was convicted of aggravated assault. After an incident in November of 2011, Gordon was originally charged with felony assault with a dangerous weapon. He later pleaded guilty to misdemeanor domestic violence and possessing a weapon while under the influence. In 2015 Gordon was convicted of disorderly conduct for fighting/jostling and operating under the influence. In 2010 Gordon’s wife filed a personal protection order against him, alleging he beat her several times and put a gun to her head while she was sleeping.

Listing said, “Gordon was either never fit to practice medicine in the first place, or he should recognize that the heavy personal toll from taking thousands of lives in the womb has led him to commit violence against women outside of the womb as well.”

LARA has ordered Gordon to complete the Health Professional Recovery Program within six months, or face having to reapply for reinstatement of his medical license. If he can pay his fine and complete rehabilitation to have his license restored, Gordon faces two years of probation.

Gordon’s abortion business is the only current surgical abortion facility in Grand Rapids. Another Grand Rapids abortion business closed several years ago. Planned Parenthood is now the sole abortion business in all of western and northern Michigan.

It’s unclear if Gordon will find a replacement abortionist to keep his business running. Abortionists traveling to other clinics or working a circuit of clinics is a common practice in the abortion industry. Local prolife sidewalk counselors, however, are unaware of Gordon ever using substitute abortionists in the past.

As of today the National Abortion Federation’s website refers women to Gordon’s business. The National Abortion Federation received criticism in the past for failing to take action against Kermit Gosnell’s charnel house abortion clinic in Philadelphia. Gosnell was convicted of three counts of first-degree murder in 2013, among numerous other crimes.

Listing said, “Gordon is not the exception in the abortion industry, but rather the rule. How could any woman ever feel safe in his operating room knowing he has put a gun to a woman’s head and has three convictions for violent crimes? How many women have been informed of his record in the past?”

Ask Dr. Universe – Turtles

How do turtles live so much longer than other animals? – 8th grader, Lewiston, Idaho

Dear Reader,

You’re right, turtles and tortoises live a lot longer than most other animals. If you were a turtle, you might live for more than 150 years. One giant Galápagos tortoise named Harriet even lived to be more than 170 years old, said my friend Donna Holmes.

Holmes is a professor and a member of the Center for Reproductive Biology, where scientists at University of Idaho and Washington State University work to tackle big questions about aging and animal lifespans.

Holmes explained that biologists have come up with several ideas, or theories, for how turtles can live for so long.

One theory has to do with the fact that turtles are cold-blooded and have what scientists call a slow metabolism. They don’t have to eat as much food to survive, since they use energy they get from food very, very slowly. Since they are cold-blooded, they also don’t need to use a lot of energy to keep themselves warm.

Our bodies need energy to keep us going. When we eat food, our body uses chemical reactions to turn it into energy we can use. But sometimes this chemical process also produces other products that end up damaging our tissues and cells over long periods of time. When this happens, we see signs of aging, such as wrinkles.

When we study animals with a slow metabolism, we observe that there isn’t as much damage to their tissues and cells as expected for their age and size.

A second idea about why turtles live so long is also related to that low metabolism. Turtles often hibernate. They sink down into the mud at the bottom of a lake or pond, going dormant for the season (kind of like hibernation), and use even less energy.

A third idea about why turtles seem to outlive so many other animals is one that Holmes likes best. She said it holds true for animals that have evolved special defenses against predators.

“You can see how animals that have hard shells would be protected against being eaten by another animal,” she said.

The harder the shell, the less likely you are to become someone else’s dinner. This is a benefit for each individual turtle. Lots of years to live also means that there is more time to breed and produce baby turtles who also have hard shells for defense.

The turtles that survive and breed in a particular environment will pass along to their offspring traits that are best suited for that environment—including tough shells.

“Animals with longer lifespans such as turtles, porcupines, mole-rats, bats and birds all have evolved defenses against predators in the form of shells, sharp quills, underground burrows,  or the ability to fly away,” Holmes said.

It seems that using energy slowly and having good defenses may be two key things that help turtles live slow and die old. But there are still many exciting questions left when it comes to aging and lifespan. Who knows? Maybe one day you can help us discover more about the different lives of animals on our planet.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Submit a question of your own at http://askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/ask

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 06/26/17

AGENDA
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES

FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415

JUNE 26, 2017

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 6/12/2017
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Employment contract for the Deputy Chief of Police
B. Discussion on the formation of a DDA
C. Rental inspection status update
D. Discussion on Special assessment for Public Safety

08. New Business
A. Public Hearing – Special Assessment District Vandenberg / Summit road improvement
B. Jim Spoelma retirement
C. Approval to fill Firefighter vacancy
D. Discuss new website possibilities
E. Budget Amendments

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

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Ladybugs

How do ladybugs survive the winter? Are ladybugs we see in spring several years old or did they just hatch? Are they worms before they are beetles? – Tanya, Pullman, WA 

Dear Tanya,

You know it’s springtime when animals start coming out of hibernation. That includes ladybugs that crawl out from their cozy winter hiding places.

As you pointed out, ladybugs are actually a kind of beetle called the ladybird beetle. They go through a life cycle of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

When these young larvae hatch from their yellowish eggs, they don’t look like worms or even beetles.

They look more like tiny alligators with six legs and tiny spikes on their backs, said my friend Laura Lavine. She’s a scientist at Washington State University who studies insects and was happy to help out with your questions.

In the summer, these young alligator-looking larvae can be found searching for their favorite food. They feast on tiny insects called aphids that live on plants.

Young larvae are hungry predators. In fact, ladybird beetle larvae will even eat each other, spikes and all, if they get hungry enough. But more often, the larvae will feast on aphids.

These larvae shed their outer skeleton throughout this stage of life. They’ll use some of this shedding to attach themselves to a plant or sometimes the side of a building for their third stage of life. In this stage, they’re called a pupa and they build a cocoon to go through a transformation.

You may have heard about how a caterpillar changes into a butterfly. A caterpillar is also a kind of larva. It changes into an adult in a process we call metamorphosis. Ladybird beetle larvae go through metamorphosis to become adults, too.

After spending about two weeks inside their cocoon, or sometimes less, the adult beetle comes out into the world. Adult beetles will live for around three years or so. During that time, they will lay eggs and create several new generations. So the beetles you see in a group could be different ages.

When fall rolls around, adult beetles leave their feeding sites in yards, fields, and forests to hide out for the winter. They need a place where they can huddle together with hundreds or thousands of other beetles. This helps them stay protected from weather and keep from freezing.

They’ll find places in cracks, crevices, tree bark, and even your house or roof to spend the winter. On the Palouse where we live, we can find them in cracks of pine trees or logs. I might just have to take my magnifying glass outside and see if I can spot some ladybugs waking up from their hibernation.

Sometimes they land right on you and start crawling. But other times they can really zip around. Believe it or not, scientists have clocked ladybird beetles flying at 37 m.p.h.

Have you seen ladybugs or other insects in your neighborhood? Were they nesting together? Have you ever spotted a ladybird beetle larva? Take a look in your neighborhood and tell me about it at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Submit a question of your own at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/ask

Slow-motion ladybug lift off: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87iV4ISAY5U

Ottawa County Commissioners Recognize Ferrysburg Mayor Pro-Term

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners started off its recent board meeting congratulating Ferrysburg Mayor Pro Term Rebecca Hop for earning the Ambassador Award from the Michigan Municipal League. The Ambassador Award is given to Michigan Municipal League members who successfully complete all four levels of the League’s Elected Officials Academy program. Hopp is among just a handful of leaders to complete all four levels.

Commissioner Roger Bergman presented Hop with a proclamation recognizing the achievement. He commented that Hop was an exemplary leader. As a member of the city council and other volunteer roles, she went beyond her duties to learn all she could about how to best govern and lead her community.

bergmanhopp

Pictured: District 10 Commissioner Roger Bergman and Ferrysburg Mayor Pro Term Rebecca Hopp.

View the Proclamation:
DOC040417-04042017130344.pdf

Muskegon County Airport Passenger Activity Climbs 28% in May

The number of passengers choosing Muskegon County Airport (MKG) for air travel continues to climb. The total number of passengers flying United Airlines (operated by SkyWest Airlines) to and from MKG was 3,636 for the month of May, compared to 2,840 during May 2016, up 28%. The June numbers are looking strong and the July reservations are shaping up to be a record setting month.

These passenger numbers are coming on the heels of Muskegon SkyWest Airlines station receiving the United Airlines Quality First Award for the first quarter of 2017. The MKG station was selected #1 out of approximately 350 small airport stations nationwide served by United Airlines. This highly competitive award is a true testament to our local team’s commitment to operational excellence and customer service.

“We are very pleased to see more regional travelers choosing to fly locally on United,” said Jeffrey Tripp, Muskegon County Airport Manager. “SkyWest Station Manager James Perri and his team provide the highest level of service to all customers and are to be commended. The United Quality First Award is based on many performance goals, including on-time, flight completion, customer service and safety, and the improvements are showing in our passenger numbers.”

United Airlines offers daily round trip flights to Chicago O’Hare on 50-seat regional jet aircraft providing passengers with convenient connections to anywhere in the world. To sign up for the airport e-blast, go to www.flymkg.com. The e-blast contains special airfares on United Airlines and monthly Casino Packages to Laughlin, Nevada.

SOS Johnson Promotes Telephone Tip Line for Reporting Fraud

To assist Michigan consumers with reporting potential fraud, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced today that a telephone Tip Line is now available for use by anyone who witnesses or experiences potential fraud involving Michigan Department of State programs or documents.

The Tip Line allows callers to report suspicious or suspected fraudulent activity. Anyone with knowledge of fraud is encouraged to call 1-844-372-8356 to report suspected violations. The number is toll-free.

“Fraud is a growing threat in our state and nation that costs consumers many billions of dollars every year,” Secretary Johnson said. “If you are aware of scams or illegal activities related to Michigan vehicles, identification, documents, elections or any area this department oversees, please contact our toll-free Tip Line with as many details as you can provide. Our investigators will work with law enforcement agencies to catch lawbreakers that hurt all of us.”

Anyone can also send an email to sos-ois@michigan.gov to communicate with the Secretary of State’s Office of Investigative Services. OIS is the primary investigative authority within the Department of State and is charged with overseeing investigations involving the department’s program areas.

Johnson created OIS as part of her focus on strengthening her office’s consumer protection efforts. The office primarily investigates and inspects automotive-related businesses and consumer complaints against them.

Information about Secretary of State office hours, locations and services can be found at michigan.gov/sos.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events June 19 to 26, 2017

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


Monday, June 19:

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
June 19 @ 7:00 pm

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon! Monday, June 19 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, watch as the Clippers take on the Green Giants.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.


Lighthouse Tours

June 19 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Roll On Muskegon
June 19 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.

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


Tuesday, June 20:

Montague Band Shell: Free Summer Concert Series
June 20 @ 7:00 pm
Montague Bandshell, 8636 Water St.

Throughout the summer, every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Montague Band Shell, join the Arts Council of White Lake (ACWL) for the Free Summer Concert Series!  In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Montague Area Public Schools Center for the Arts located at Montague High School. For more information, call 231-893-2524


Wednesday, June 21:

Serene Yoga’s Summer Beach Yoga Series
June 21
Muskegon State Park, 3560 Memorial Dr.
Serene Yoga will be offering a Summer Beach Yoga Series June 1 through August 31, 2017. Classes will be held Wednesday and Friday morning from 10:00am – 11:00am and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:00pm.  The drop-in rate is $10. Join Diana and enjoy the serenity of the Great Lakes as she guides you through stretching and balancing poses.


Fricano Place Cruise-Ins
June 21 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fricano’s Event Center, 1050 W. Western

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe!


Food Truck Rally
June 21 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.

Bring the family and your appetite to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the big Food Truck Rally!  Be sure to bring lawn chairs so you can relax and enjoy an evening of games and excellent food from your favorite vendors.  For more information, call (231) 724-6777.


Thursday, June 22:

Michigan’s Heritage Park Dog Days
June 22 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing, 8637 N. Durham Rd

“Dog Days” at Michigan’s Heritage Park!  Bring your four-legged friend to the park with you and learn about the role of pets and animals through history. Water will be provided. Dogs must be on a leash and owners must pick up after them. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.


Finger Weaving Make-and-Take
June 22 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing, 8637 N. Durham Rd

Come to Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing for Finger Weaving Make-and-Take!  Visitors can make a piece of fiber art such as a coaster or bracelet.  Take it home for a $5 fee.  For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.


Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
June 22 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 West Webster Avenue

Every Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00pm, admission is free at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  One of the most highly respected art museums in the Midwest, the marbled halls of the MMA offer a full schedule of permanent collection displays, traveling exhibits and a lovely museum gift shop.


Downtown Dancing
June 22 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.

Come to the beautiful downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market for Downtown Dancing!  Enjoy a lovely summer evening dancing to local favorites, the Yard Sale Underwear band.  Free!  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.


Friday, June 23:

Yoga at the Light
June 23 @ 9:30 am
White River Light Station, 6199 Murray Rd.

Come to the White River Light Station for Yoga at the Light!  Bring your yoga mats or large towels and water to drink and join SPLKA for Yoga.  The rain date is June 30.  For further information call Mitch Coleman at White River Yoga at 231-740-6662.


Serene Yoga’s Summer Beach Yoga Series
June 23
An event every week that begins at 12:00am on Wednesday and Friday, repeating until August 31, 2017
Muskegon State Park, 3560 Memorial Dr.

Serene Yoga will be offering a Summer Beach Yoga Series June 1 through August 31, 2017. Classes will be held Wednesday and Friday morning from 10:00am – 11:00am and Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm – 8:00pm.  The drop-in rate is $10. Join Diana and enjoy the serenity of the Great Lakes as she guides you through stretching and balancing poses.


Seaway Run Healthy Lifestyle Expo
June 23 @ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
LC Walker Arena, 955 Fourth St.

As a precursor to the 36th annual Mercy Health Seaway Run, you’re invited to the L.C. Walker Arena for the Healthy Lifestyle Expo Friday, June 23 from 11:00am-7:00pm.  Healthy choices lead to a healthier life and a healthier community!  The Healthy Lifestyle Expo is offered at no cost to the community so you can explore healthy options and learn how to optimize your family’s health.  Visit the expo for health screenings, food, music, kids activities, prizes, demonstrations and more!  For more information visit www.seawayrun.com.


Lighthouse Tours
June 23 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Party in the Park: Westside Soul Surfers
June 23 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Hackley Park, City block bounded by Webster and Clay and Third and Fourth Streets

For more than 30 year’s Parties in the Park has been a Muskegon institution providing Friday evening entertainment, free admission and a family-friendly atmosphere!  Be a part of the tradition and enjoy a summer evening with us downtown in Hackley Park.  There are always five local Muskegon food vendors at every party, there’s something for everyone to purchase.


Summer Concerts on the Depot Lawn
June 23 @ 7:00 pm
Union Depot, 610 W. Western Ave.

The West Michigan Concerts WINDS Sousa Band will perform on Fridays, June 16, 23, and 30 and the Summer WINDS will play Friday, August 4 at The Depot in downtown Muskegon.  Concerts run from 7:00 – 8:00pm and are FREE and open to the public.  Bring your blanket or lawn chair for an enjoyable evening.


Movies on Deck: Back to the Future III
June 23 @ 9:30 pm
USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, 560 Mart St.

Sunsets, sea breezes and superstars…they’re all on deck at USS LST 393 Veterans Museum for the popular “Movies on Deck,” most Friday nights this summer on Muskegon’s downtown waterfront.  The films are shown on LST 393’s huge screen on the top deck starting right after sunset, around 10:00pm.


Saturday, June 24:

Mercy Health Seaway Run
June 24 @ 7:00 am

The Mercy Health Seaway run will take place on Saturday, June 24 in downtown Muskegon.  Races will start and end at the intersection of W. Western Ave. and Fourth St.  Shoreline Drive will be closed for racers.  An after party will follow the races with the main stage for awards and music at the intersection of W. Western and Fourth St.


Community Business and Craft Fair
June 24 @ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Hackley Park, City block bounded by Webster and Clay and Third and Fourth Streets

Come to beautiful Hackley Park in downtown Muskegon for the Community Business and Craft Fair!  Small businesses, crafters, specialty businesses, food vendors and non-profits will set up canopies along the sidewalks of the park for your shopping and eating pleasure.  There will also be children’s activities. For more information, call 616-836-8756.


Lighthouse Tours
June 24 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Kelsicote Summer Tour 2017
June 24 @ 7:00 pm
Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St.

The Book Nook & Java Shop invites everyone for live music from the Chilean band KelsiCote!  They fuse cultures, countries and roots into original music of the heart, singing to our shared present age in the universal language of La Música!


Movies on the Beach: Jaws
June 24 @ 9:30 pm
Pere Marquette Public Beach, 3510 Channel Drive

Saturday night, June 24, come to beautiful Pere Marquette Beach for “Movies on the Beach!”  The movie will start around dusk at Pere Marquette Park (plan to be there by 9:30pm).  This month’s movie is “Jaws” (PG) starring Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider.  This event is free and open to the public.


Muskegon History: Lakeshore Museum Center
Fur Trade
June 24 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center, 430 W. Clay Ave.

Hands-on demonstration with furs used in the trade between Native Americans and Europeans.  This is a free open-house style event.  For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.


Sunday, June 25:

Red, White and Blue: An American Music Tribute
June 25 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave # 200

Come and hear the amazing sounds of the Frauenthal’s Mighty Barton Theater Pipe Organ.  Originally from the silent movie era, this organ can produce sounds from 25 musical instruments as well as train whistles, car horns and birds chirping!


The Dan Meyer Choir West Michigan Tour
June 25 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, 560 Mart St.

Baltimore’s Dan Meyer Choir is bringing it’s unique, tongue-in-cheek music to Muskegon with a performance aboard the USS LST 393!  Dedicated to creating original music about life in general and Baltimore in particular, they will be presenting several songs especially written for our West Michigan audience.


Monday, June 26:

Lighthouse Tours
June 26 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon South Pierhead Light, 1431 Beach St.

The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is offering tours of the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays in June from 1:00-5:00pm.  The cost is $2 – $4.  For more information, call 844-MLIGHTS or visit www.muskegonlights.org.


Roll On Muskegon
June 26 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave.

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

Muskegon Clippers Home Game
June 26 @ 7:00 pm
Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St.

Beginning this season, the Muskegon Clippers will now be part of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League!  This extremely well established league has been home to many players who went on to play in the Big Leagues. This move to the Great Lakes League is a huge step forward for the Muskegon Clippers and will bring high caliber baseball to Muskegon! Monday, June 19 at 7:05pm at Marsh Field, watch as the Clippers take on the Green Giants.  For more information, e-mail info@muskegonclippers.com.

 

Stop in our office at 610 W. Western and pick up our 2017 Muskegon County visitor guide!

Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau summer hours:
Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday 11:00am-4:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm -4:00pm

You can find us on Facebook and our website is www.visitmuskegon.org