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Fruitport Charter Township Board Of Trustees–October 10, 2016

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF OCTOBER 10, 2016

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, October 10, 2016, in the township board room.

Members Present: Brian Werschem, Supervisor; Carol Hulka, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Ron Becklin, Dave Markgraf, and Marjorie Nash. Members Absent: Trustee Chuck Whitlow

At 7:00 p.m., Supervisor Werschem opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed with a prayer.

Also Present: 22 – residents, 0 – employees, 0 – guests, and Public Safety Director, Michelli

The meeting minutes of September 26, 2016, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The meeting agenda for October 10, 2016, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1)Michigan Townships Association legislative updates
2)Fruitport Township Parks and Recreation meeting minutes dated August 23 and September 27, 2016
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Kristy and Steve Jones, 5703 Fairview Ct., spoke on the Kendra Road road problem. Many other residents of Stillwater Springs were also in attendance supporting the need to have Kendra Road repaired.

REPORTS—none received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

16-087 Reclamation of Cemetery Plots
Clerk Carol Hulka gave a report on the reclaiming of cemetery burial spaces in Pine Hill Cemetery. After a thorough investigation of forfeiture of unused and neglected burial spaces, 249 sites are able to be reclaimed. In addition, 90 additional grave sites are being added to unoccupied land located behind the mausoleum in Pine Hill Cemetery.

16-088 Fruitport Soccer / Sheringer
Chris Belasco, from the Fruitport Soccer Club, spoke on making some changes to the current Fruitport Soccer Club License Agreement. There was discussion with no action taken.

16-089 Retail Fraud Ordinance – Second Reading and Adoption
Dave Markgraf moved, Carol Hulka supported, MOTION CARRIED, for the adoption of the Retail Fraud Ordinance #798 that will protect the public health, safety, and general welfare by prohibiting certain defined behavior in the Charter Township of Fruitport, and to provide for an effective date which is 30 days after its publication in the Muskegon Chronicle.

This constitutes the second and final reading.

Ayes: Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Werschem Nays: None

NEW BUSINESS

16-090 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgraf moved, Marjorie Nash seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $8,384.14; Public Safety $17,955.99; Water $;85,240.86 and Sewer $588.81. Totaling: $ 113,384.68

Ayes: Markgraf, Nash, Becklin, Dillon, Hulka, Werschem Nays: None

REPORTS
Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli, reported that inquiries have been coming up regarding whether charitable organizations may solicit contributions in public roadways. In the past, the Township didn’t get involved in this issue. Director Michelli presented a ruling dated July 29, 2016, from Attorney General Bill Schuette, on this matter. The ruling was summed up stating that Rule 713, of the Uniform Traffic Code, prohibits a person in the improved portion of a roadway from soliciting contributions in support of a civic or charitable organization from the occupant of any vehicle. Mich Admin Code, R 28.1713.

After discussion, the Board agreed to follow the Attorney General’s ruling.

Resident Chuck Larson, Stringer Road, presented a newspaper picture that appeared on the front page of the local Clipper newspaper dated February 11, 1970. The picture was of a Fruitport Township board meeting where officials exchanged views on various issues including combining water supply efforts with the Fruitport Village.

PUBLIC COMMENTS: PART II – None received

The motion by Ron Becklin, supported by Dave Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:09 p.m.

_______________________________ ______________________________

CAROL HULKA, CLERK BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Candidate Bio: Denise Winebarger

Candidate for Fruitport Township Trustee

I would like to be a voice for the public

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s Degree, Western Michigan University (Business/Computer Science/Mathematics)
• Associate Degree, Muskegon Community College (Business/Accounting)
• Michigan Certified Assessing Technician (MCAT)
• Graduate of Muskegon Police Dept. Citizen’s Academy
• Family Financial Credit Union Board Member
• Presently: Muskegon County District Court Clerk
• Previous: Holton Township Administrative Clerk

I Would Appreciate Your Vote

Muskegon Walk Raises $48,000 for Alzheimer’s

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S^®IN MUSKEGON RAISES $48,000
More than 325 Muskegon area residents raise awareness, funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research

Muskegon, MI – More than 325 residents from the Muskegon area joined the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s^® and united in a movement to reclaim the future for millions on Saturday, September 24 at Heritage Landing. Participants raised more than $48,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs.

“With over 180,000 people in Michigan living with Alzheimer’s disease and over half a million caregivers, it’s a cause that has touched the lives of far too many Muskegon area residents,” says Elizabeth Donnelly-Johnson, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter. “I think that’s why the community really embraces it every year. It’s inspiring to look out at a sea of purple and know we’re making a difference.”

Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants did more than complete the one or three mile Walk routes. They learned about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get involved with this critical cause, from advocacy opportunities, clinical studies and support programs and services. The event also included an emotional tribute to those who have experienced or are experiencing Alzheimer’s.

Special thanks to Muskegon Hope Riders for being a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s event.

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans to as many as 16 million by 2050. For more information or to make a donation, visit alz.org/walk.

Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s^®The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk^®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s – the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.

Alzheimer’s Association^®The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org^® or call 800.272.3900.

Community-wide Remembrance Service

3rd Annual Community-wide Remembrance Service in Muskegon, Michigan

Recently, two of West Michigan’s community hospice leaders, Harbor Hospice and Mercy Health Hospice, hosted another Community Remembrance at Heritage Memorial Garden in downtown Muskegon. The ceremony encompassed a program of music, readings and over 70 bulbs planted to help individuals and families in our community to both mourn the death and honor the life of a loved one.

The Community Remembrance was held on Thursday, September 22, 2016 at 6:00 pm at the Heritage Memorial Garden located at 545 W. Western Ave. Pam Babbitt developed the garden in honor of her late husband. It is a beautiful haven in downtown Muskegon and an incredible representation of the love that remains even after a person dies. Feedback about the event included comments like “I can’t thank you enough for this type of venue and even to keep our loved ones memory alive. It means so much to me” and “I am so happy to have been able to come to this event”. These comments really give expression to the organic needs of grievers. In our culture, mourning is becoming increasingly taboo. Grief is a natural and normal response to loss and mourning is how one heals. It was our privilege to offer an opportunity to share in the midst of grief and loss an opportunity to mourn in an environment of acceptance and understanding.

Thank you to everyone who shared in this special ceremony with us.

Happy Hour Fundraiser

Join us for this fun Happy Hour Event:
Vines & Steins, a Happy Hour Fundraiser. Thursday, October 27, 2016, from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. at the Folkert Community Hub, 640 Seminole Rd., Norton Shores.

Click on the picture to view a larger image.

Tickets may be purchased at the Mission for Area People office at 2500 Jefferson Av, Muskegon Heights 49444 or call 231-733-9672 for more information.

It is through the generous support of our community, Mission for Area People is able to continue to provide programs such as: Healthy Food Pantry, Medical Support Fund, Emergency Dental Assistance, Clothing Pantry, Back Packs for Kids, Thanks Giving Baskets, Christmas Toys and Rental Assistance (when rental funds are available.)

Thank you for all your help!

Candidate Bio: DJ Hilson

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Mr. Hilson graduated from Thomas Cooley Law School in 1999 with honors and started as an assistant prosecutor in Muskegon County Prosecutor that same year.
DJ Hilson has appeared in every courtroom in Muskegon County trying over 80 felony cases including several murders, violent assaults, and criminal sexual conduct cases. In August of 2012, DJ Hilson was elected as the Muskegon County Prosecutor.
DJ Hilson believes in serving the community. He is a member of Muskegon Rotary, Prince of Peace Knights of Columbus Council 15337, Fraternal Order of Police, and the Muskegon Heights Optimist Club, Child Abuse Council (President), Drug Free Coalition of Muskegon (Vice-Chair), Alliance for Mrijuana Prevention (AMP) (Chair), Social Justice Commission, Mediation and Restorative Services, Alcohol Liability Initiative (Past-Chair), Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon (President of the Board), Muskegon Catholic Central Board of Trustees, and the School to Prison Pipeline Task Force. DJ Hilson was the 2013-14 Past President of the Muskegon County Bar Association. At the State level, Mr. Hilson serves on the Board of Directors for the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan, currently serving as its Vice-President. In April of 2015, DJ Hilson was appointed by Governor Snyder to represent PAAM and all Michigan County Prosecutors on the Criminal Justice Policy Commission. DJ Hilson is happily married to his wife Tricia and has been blessed with two sons and a daughter.

Candidate Bio: Mark Fairchild

Candidate for Muskegon County Register of Deeds

“Mark F. Fairchild, 57 years old residing at 893 Center Street, Muskegon, MI 49442, Married to Shelley for 24 years with our 20 year old son Charlie.
I have served as your Muskegon County Register of Deeds for the last 17 Years. I am a Past Muskegon County Commissioner for 13 Years & Branch Manager for a National Mortgage Lender.
The Register of Deeds Office is very Important to the Citizens, Businesses and Local Economy of Muskegon County. Last year alone the Register=s Office Recorded and Protected Billions of Dollars in new Real Estate Transactions. I have been successful in achieving many positive improvements in the Register of Deeds Office. Those improvements allow me to protect your most Important Real Estate Assets, deliver exceptional customer service and save your Tax Dollars. Those Improvements Online include Property Fraud Guard, Home Security Search and Access to the last 55 years of Register of Deeds Records at www.co.muskegon.mi.us/deeds
I believe I have the Experience, Dedication and Professional Background to continue providing the Government Leadership and Great Customer Service that the Register of Deeds Office currently provides. ‘No politics-just public service, The Door is Always Open’
Thank you, Mark F. Fairchild”

Candidate Bio: Sue Buckner

Candidate for Sullivan Township Clerk

“My name is Sue Buckner and I am seeking re-election for Sullivan Township Clerk. I have held this position for six years and want to continue to serve Sullivan Township. I am a lifelong resident of Sullivan Township with strong community ties.
Being your Clerk is a big responsibility.
* I maintain township records such as board meeting minutes, book of oaths, and voter registration files.
* I conduct elections and ensure accuracy and transparency.
* I develop and monitor the township budget; maintaining the township’s financial health.
* I am the Board Liaison to the Planning Commission.
I would appreciate your vote and continued support on November 8.”

Candidate Bio: Greg Hulka

Candidate for Fruitport Township Trustee

“Dear Fruitport Area Voters, my name is Greg Hulka. I am running for Fruitport Township Trustee. It would be an honor to serve on our board. I am a life long resident of Fruitport. I graduated from Fruitport High in 1981. I have been married to Lisa for 25 years, we have three children; Samantha, Rachel, and Michael. We also have five grand children.
I am a strong proponet of the casino, if people wish to attend a casino I would rather have them support our local economy than travel across the state. I previously served on our board as trustee from 2004-2008.
I will continue to support our local public safety, police and fire. I served on our department of public works board my last term. We are blessed with the departments that we have. I will make only one promise and that will be to work hard to better our community and try my best to represent everyone. I would appreciate your support November 8th. Thanks, Greg Hulka”

Muskegon County 4-H Awards Ceremony

The 2016 Muskegon County 4-H Awards Ceremony was held on October 3, 2016 at the Muskegon Area Career Tech Center. Approximately 190 4-H members, volunteers and parents were in attendance. The night was spent recognizing 4-H members and volunteers for their accomplishments and years of service during the 2015-2016 4-H Club Year. Representative Holly Hughes, Senator Goeff Hansen, Muskegon County Clerk, Nancy Waters, and Muskegon County Commissioner Wilkins was in attendance as well.

2016 Awards Ceremony with Special Guests

Some of the awards presented were:

4-H Leader Years of Service Awards
1 Year of Service for 2015-2016

2016 Awards 1st Year Leaders

Dennis Arends – Nunica
Kim Beebe – Muskegon
Misty Carr – Norton Shores
Joan Conklin – Muskegon
Angie Fairbrother – Ravenna
Richard Fairbrother – Ravenna
Kelly Johnson – Cedar Springs
Patti Lantz – Muskegon
Renee Martin – Nunica
Pamela McCaleb – Grand Haven
Jill Norton – Spring Lake
Shelley Ostric – Spring Lake
Heidi Raap – Kent City
Amy Richards – Norton Shores
Stacey Skilling – Ravenna
Matthew Wert – Grant

5 Years of Service
Matthew Block – Ravenna
Chris Clark – Fruitport
Christy Deal – Spring Lake
Christine Franzon – Whitehall
Rhonda Gregory – Muskegon
Amanda Peebles – Ravenna

15 Years of Service
Jenny Erffmeyer – Ravenna

45 Years of Service
Margret Kingsbury – Conklin

2016 Awards Margret Kingsbury – 45 years of service

4-H Project Medal Awards

4-H county medals are given to 4-H members who have greatly improved their skills in a particular project or projects or whose project involvement has been significant and successful. Up to 2 medals from each 4-H project area are awarded each year.

2016 4-H Project Medal Awards

Achievement
Alexis Foreman – Nunica
Riley Foreman – Nunica

Agriculture
Trevor Block – Ravenna
Ian Waldecker – Conklin

Beef
Brynn Kantola – Ravenna
Jessica Zahm – Marne

Cat
Sydney Bleich – Fruitport
Jessica Horne – Fruitport

Cavy
Ronni Gregory – Muskegon
Kaylyn Skuse-Freye – Whitehall

Dairy
Katelyn Stevens – Ravenna
Ian Waldecker – Conklin

Dogs
Anthony English – Ravenna
Madilyn English – Ravenna

Foods and Nutrition
Joleen Cejmer – Muskegon
Hannah Stevens – Ravenna

Goats
Kelley Chase – Conklin
Cassie Perrin – Coopersville

Horse
Stefanie Beckley – Spring Lake
Tessa Rush – Spring Lake

Judging
Cassie Perrin – Coopersville
Kathleen Zahm – Marne

Leadership
Joleen Cejmer – Muskegon
Katelyn Stevens – Ravenna

Llama/Alpaca
Makenna Bitely – Twin Lake
Kaylyn Skuse-Freye – Whitehall

Personal Development
Stefanie Beckley – Spring Lake
Cammie Clark – Fruitport

Rabbits
Abagail Hichue – Muskegon
Megan Norton – Spring Lake

Sheep
Cassie Perrin – Coopersville
Natalie Perrin – Coopersville

Shooting Sports
Kaeden Bitely – Twin Lake
Ty Maycroft – Ravenna

Swine
Cammie Clark – Fruitport
Kristen Moyer – Ravenna

Visual Arts
Joleen Cejmer – Muskegon
Ronni Gregory – Muskegon

Wood Science
Justin Hichue – Muskegon

Aged Out 4-H Members
This group of 4-H members has finished their 4-H journey. It is my hope that the skills they have acquired in 4-H will remain with them throughout their life. Thank you for being excellent role models for the younger 4-H members in this county and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.

Brooke Whipple
Cheyenne Latsch
Clara Carr
Joleen Cejmer
Katelyn Stevens
Madaline Knight
Nitosha Radosa
Rachel Dodde
Rebecca Goodno
Rosa Moody
Sarah Conklin
Thomas Rozema

2016 Muskegon County 4-H Awards

The 2016 Muskegon County 4-H Leaders Council Community Service Award belongs to the Busy Bees 4-H Club.

2016 Awards Community Service Award – Busy Bees

Some of their community service projects included donating 6 cases of water for delivery to those in need in Flint, a community garden at the Covenant Community Church, helped serve breakfast at the First Congregational Church, and assisted with the Food Truck at the Covenant Community Church. The Busy Bees 4-H Club strives to help others in their community. This shows the 4-H members the value and need for service to others. The Busy Bees 4-H Club meets in Muskegon.

The 2016 Horse Sportsmanship Award goes to Tessa Rush.

2016 Awards Horse Sportsmanship Award

The Horse Sportsmanship Award goes to a 4-H member who exemplifies outstanding sportsmanship during the 2015-2016 4-H Club Year. Tessa is from Spring Lake.

The 2016 Marion Judd 4-H Award goes to Bobby Wagenborg.

2016 Awards Marion Judd Award

The Marion Judd 4-H Award was established by the Muskegon County 4-H Leaders Council in memory of Mrs. Marion Judd, who served as a 4-H club leader for over 40 years. Mrs. Judd took special pride in recognizing those 4-H members who showed the greatest personal growth and improvement in their 4-H projects and activities. Bobby is from Coopersville.

The 2016 Friend of 4-H Award belongs to SAF Holland.

2016 Awards Friend of 4-H Award

The Friend of 4-H Award is awarded to an individual who has provided significant contributions and assistance to 4-H programming and is not presently enrolled as a 4-H leader. The Charity Committee at SAF Holland made the decision to give their earning from the company picnic to the Muskegon County 4-H Make the Match Endowment Fund. On June 21, SAF Holland’s company picnic held numerous events to raise money for the 4-H Endowment Fund. A display table of information regarding 4-H was available for the employees to understand the mission and vision of 4-H. SAF-Holland raised $1000 and a check was presented to Muskegon County 4-H at the opening ceremonies of the Muskegon County Fair. Thank you SAF Holland for believing in the future of the Muskegon County 4-H Program and helping to sustain 4-H in this county.

The 2016 Muskegon County 4-H Leader of the Year is Rhonda Gregory. Rhonda was a devoted 4-H leader and parent. She ran every 4-H club meeting, community service project, and activity the Denim N Dust club participated in. Even during her struggle with cancer treatments Rhonda was still always present and committed to her 4-H Club. She was always available to help any child or parent whenever they needed assistance. Her devotion, commitment, and friendships to 4-H makes her a perfect candidate for the 4-H Leader of the Year Award. She will forever hold a place in the Denim N Dust 4-H Club, the hearts of its members, and the 4-H community. Rhonda lost her battle with cancer shortly before the Fair in July. Rhonda will be honored and remembered always for the impact she made on the children and adults in the Muskegon County 4-H. Rhonda was from Muskegon. State 4-H Award – This is the highest honor bestowed on Michigan 4-H youth. This program is for 4-H youth aged 13 and up with at least three years of 4-H experience. This past year Cassie Perrin from Coopersville applied for the State 4-H Award and was invited to be a State 4-H Delegate for the Sheep Science project area. I would like to recognize her for her hardwork and commitment to excellence.

Parents, not Peers, Biggest Influence on Kid’s Sexual Decisions

Teens consistently say parents—not peers, not partners, not popular culture
most influence their decisions about relationships and sex.

10 Tips for Parents

1. Be open
2. Be the expert
3. Be accessible
4. Be trusting
5. Stay calm
6. Ask open-ended questions
7. Listen to your teen
8. Put yourself in their shoes
9. Appeal to common goals
10. Show your interest

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 10/10/16-10/17/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

We Are Stars
Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
There’s a new show at the Carr-Fles Planetarium! “We Are Stars” is a 35-minute, family-friendly adventure that that spans the billions of years between the Big Bang and modern day, and follows the thread that connects us all to those early times through the atoms from which our bodies are formed. Where did they come from? How did they get here? And is it true that we really are all made of stars? The science content is most appropriate for ages 11 and up; however, the entrancing animation and award-winning soundtrack will draw all ages into the magical universe created within this incredible show. No reservations are needed for this FREE program, which runs August 23 – October 27 on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00pm (doors open by 6:45), and includes a brief demonstration of the current night sky. The planetarium is in room 135 of Muskegon Community College (221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon). For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

AhFest: Films Based on Novels by Dennis Lehane
October 12, 19 & 26 @ 6:00 pm
Sit back, relax and enjoy a free movie and popcorn during AhFest! “Mystic River,” “Gone Baby Gone,” “Shutter Island” and “The Drop” will be shown during the Muskegon Area Arts and Humanities Festival throughout October. All four movies are based on novels by Dennis Lehane, whose lecture will close the festival on Thursday, October 27. All movies will be shown at 6:00pm on Wednesdays at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Beer and wine will be available at a cash bar.

Oct. 12: “Gone Baby Gone” (2008)
Oct. 19: “Shutter Island” (2010)
Oct. 26: “The Drop” (2014)

Avenue Q: The Musical
October 12 @ 7:30 pm – October 15 @ 7:30 pm
Come to Muskegon Community College’s Overbrook Theater October 12 – 15 at 7:30pm for “Avenue Q: The Musical,” the story of what happens when the simple promises of childhood meet the messier, more complex realities of adulthood – but with puppets! Winner of the 2004 Tony Award for Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book, “Avenue Q: The Musical” mingles live actors alongside colorful puppets reminiscent of children’s shows like “Sesame Street,” however, this is no show for children and is recommended for mature audiences only. The show features Aidan Smith, Erin Mickelson, Gabe Cerchiori, Aaron Ponce, Sarah Stepanek, Tim Hegedus, Paul Dickens-Jacobs, Katie McCool, D’marco Hughes, Hannah Erdman, Adrianne Lewis, Madisen Schuppe, Claire Beaman and Bonnie Weise. The cost is $10. For more information, call 231-777-0583.

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA
October 13 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!” Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. For more information call 231-720-2570.

Girls Night Out: Margaritas and Mexican Fiesta with Chef Char
October 13 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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Thursday, October 13^th – Girls Night Out – Margaritas and Mexican Fiesta with Chef Char 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Join us as we fill the kitchen with tasty and fresh fiesta foods. Chef Char will share her favorite recipes for guacamole, salsa fresca, carne asada, homemade tortilla chips and creative flavors with crema. We will then splurge on cinnamon churros and freshly squeezed fruit Margaritas. Must be over 21. Cost $45.

Go to www.eventbrite.com and search on Muskegon Farmers Market and all currently scheduled classes will pop up. Also subscribe to our Kitchen 242 Facebook Events Page to receive notification when new culinary events are added.

Thursday Night Music Club: Oh Brother Big Sister
October 13 @ 7:00 pm
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The Norton Shores Library hosts the musical duo Oh Brother Big Sister, Thursday, October 13 at 7:00pm! With a comfortable, comedic essence that makes you feel like you’re with old friends, the big-sister-little-brother duo deliver music that encompasses a wide variety of music genres with an original acoustic sound that makes each performance an experience. This event is free! For more information, contact Alison at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org.

Haunted Hall
Fridays and Saturdays in October
Haunted Hall, one of the county’s oldest haunted attractions, is back in 2016, and this year it’s designed to be bigger and better than ever. The attraction, which debuted in 1999, will take place at the Muskegon County Fairgrounds, 6621 Heights Ravenna Rd. in Fruitport Township, Fridays and Saturdays, October 1-29. This year’s theme is “The Quarantine Zone” and features three haunts for the price of one; The Foundry, The Bunker and The Containment Zone! Enter all three haunts for only $15.00. Tickets can be purchased at the door with cash or credit card. Save $1.00 for every canned good you donate to Love, Inc. at the ticket office. Maximum of $3.00 off per ticket. This attraction is NOT recommended for children under 12 years of age or the faint of heart. For more information, visit www.hauntedhall.com.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
October 14 @ 7:15 pm – October 15 @ 7:15 pm
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Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15 at 7:15pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena as the Muskegon Lumberjacks take on the Youngstown Phantoms! The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud members of the United States Hockey League, the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and the leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. The Lumberjacks’ organization prides itself on developing not just premier hockey talent, but also exceptional young men outside the arena of sports. For more information, visit www.muskegonlumberjacks.com.

Free Tours of the Hackley & Hume Site for Muskegon County Residents
Saturdays and Sundays in October
Tours of the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons are free for Muskegon County residents on weekends during the month of October. Saturday hours are 10:00am-4:00pm, Sunday hours are 1:00-4:00pm. For more information, call 231-722-7578.

Homemade Apple Pies with Chef Char Morse
October 15 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
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Saturday, October 15^th – Homemade Apple Pies with Chef Char Morse 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Learn to make a delicious homemade pie crust and various fillings for holiday dessert pies or meals. Demo and discuss: how to make perfect pie crust, how to roll out dough, how to make a lattice top crust, and importance of egg wash and venting in top crust. You will be making a pie to take home and you can bake it while in class or take it home for baking later. Older Teens and Adults. Cost $35.

Lakeside Emporium Autumn Fest
October 15 @ 9:30 am
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Lakeside Emporium is holding its 1st annual Lakeside Emporium Autumn Fest! One of the highlights will be the Lakeside Emporium Sweetest Day Parade to be held on Saturday, October 15th at 9:30am. The purpose of this autumn parade is to serve as a “harvest “ for those in need in our community. Those groups and marching units that have been invited to participate have been collecting food items and new/unused winter wear (coats, gloves, mittens, hats, scarves), that will be distributed to The Kids’ Food Basket and other area food banks and shelters. The groups’ donations will be paraded along the route via carts, wagons, etc. Parade watchers can bring items as well and present them after the parade at the Lakeside Emporium. The parade is short (from McCracken to Torrent), this will be a fun event to benefit a really good cause. At the conclusion of the parade (Emporium parking lot), some performers will play again so that the audience will have another chance to enjoy the performances. Come one, come all Saturday, October 15th with step-off at 9:30 am. If you or your group would like to march and haven’t been contacted, please contact Laureen Samples at 231-755-9933.

Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour
October 15, 22 and 29 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Gather your family and friends to experience the vibrant Fall colors at the Depot-to-Depot Fall Color Tour! This free self-guided tour happens October 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10:00am – 4:00pm. “Color Tourers” can pick up a map at either the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau located in the historic Union Depot at 610 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon or at the White Lake Area Chamber/CVB at the Whitehall Depot 124 W. Hanson St. in downtown Whitehall. Using the map as a guide you’ll have the opportunity to visit stops along the way to win great prizes! Refreshments will be served at both the Muskegon and Whitehall Depots and kids will receive a free pumpkin that they can decorate on-the-spot. For more information call 231-724-3100.

Creative Saturday
October 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.

Appraisal Fair
October 15 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
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October 15 from 10:00am – 4:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for an Appraisal Fair! Are you curious about the history and value of jewelry, artwork, antiques and other treasures in your collection? Professional appraisers will be on hand to satisfy your curiosity at this event. All proceeds benefit the Museum.
Verbal appraisals are $15 per item or set (includes MMA gallery admission). Museum members will receive a $3 discount per item or set. Written appraisals cannot be provided at this event. For more information, call 231-720-2570.

From Page to Screen
October 15 @ 1:30 pm
Event Navigation
Saturday, October 15 at 1:30pm, the Norton Shores Library hosts “From Page to Screen!” Participants will discuss Dennis LeHane’s suspenseful thriller Mystic River and then watch the 2003 movie.

Is the book always better than the movie? If you love to read and watch movies, combine your passion for both! October’s book is Mystic River, a gripping mystery about three young boys and a childhood tragedy that continues to affect their adult lives. The movie was directed by Clint Eastwood and starred Sean Penn, Tim Robbins and Kevin Bacon. “From Page to Screen” includes an informal discussion of both formats, plus there’s free popcorn! Copies of the book are available at the Library while supplies last. This program is free and open to the public ages 18 and up. F or additional information, contact Alison at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org.

KnowSmoke Zombie Walk
October 15 @ 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Join the Knowsmoke Zombie Walk and declare yourself part of the smoke free generation on Saturday October 15. The Knowsmoke Zombie Walk starts with check in at the L.C. Walker Arena at 2:00pm. Get tobacco zombie-fied and learn to do the zombie walk and then take to the streets of downtown Muskegon. After the zombies have terriorized the town, they will head back to Hackley Park for tobacco reduction related festivities. From 3:30pm – 5:30pm there will be light treats, face painting, a flash-mob and music provided by DJ Wingman. Prizes will be up for grabs for the best costume that displays the health hazards of tobacco use. Free t-shirts will be available to the first 100 zombies to register on Eventbrite. Youth age 13 and under need to be accompanied by an adult. No pets, roller blades, bicycles, smoking or weapons allowed for the safety of all participants. For more information call 231-724-1263.

The MCA – Red Lotus Gallery Open Mic Night
October 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.

Free Family Movie Night: Monsters, Inc.
October 15 @ 7:00 pm
Event Navigation
Saturday, October 15 at 7:00pm, come to the Howmet Playhouse for the Free Family Movie Night film, “Monsters, Inc.”

This 2001 animated feature from the creators of Toy Story shows us the life behind the scenes of things that go bump in the night. The big, blue and fuzzy James P. Sullivan (John Goodman) and his opinionated, one-eyed roommate Mike Wzowski (Billy Crystal) are two professional “scare specialists”. Their job is to harness the energy created when they make little kids scream. This energy is bottled and keeps their society going. When they accidentally let a young girl named Boo into their world behind the closets and under the beds, it throws their life into chaos. Boo finds out that the monsters are more scared of her than she is of them. G (All Ages Admitted)

Free drinks and popcorn are included! For more information, call 231-894-4048.

Performances @The Block: Audivi
October 15 @ 7:30 pm
Tickets: $20-$30, $10 Student tickets with ID
A professional vocal octet, Audivi focuses on presenting rarely heard Renaissance masterpieces and premiering new works by modern composers, as well as choral music from all eras. Saturday, October 15 at 7:30pm, Audivi harkens back to a time when unaccompanied singing was considered the highest form of music in the world. Its members have sung with professional vocal ensembles around the world and have appeared on the television program, America’s Got Talent.

Call Rita at 231-726-3231 x223 for tickets and more information. Doors and bar open at 6:45pm, concert begins at 7:30pm.

Ruth and Max Bloomquist
October 16 @ 3:00 pm
Ruth and Max Bloomquist, Michigan’s favorite acoustic folk duo, will perform 3:00pm, Sunday October 16 at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church! This free event is open to everyone. Singer/songwriter Ruth Bloomquist performs her original songs along with folk, country and bluegrass favorites. Max backs her up with harmony and bass. Together, they create a heart touching roots-based music that is all their own. The Bloomquists appear frequently on NPR, concert stages and songwriting workshops. Their Youtube hit “Michigan Girl” had 345,000 listeners. This summer they performed in southern France and were featured artists at Michigan’s Double JJ Resort. They released a live CD in 2012 and a Christmas EP in 2015. A new release is in the works for 2016. No tickets or reservations are required. Refreshments follow the show. For more information contact St. Gregory’s Church at 231-780-2955.

Special Dog Park Event

Please join us for our annual dog park event!
Saturday, October 15 from 10 am – 1pm at the Grand Ravines Dog Park

RSVP here

We’ve had some challenges with the weather, but we think the third time will be a charm!
We are excited to announce that the Grand Ravines Dog Park will be partnering with GVSU Colleges Against Cancer for a 2-in-1 event supporting the American Cancer Society Relay For Life! Join us for GVSU’s annual Bark for Life and our Dog Days of… Fall celebration.

You’ll be able to enjoy the park, see the renovation progress, and have the opportunity to support both the dog park and the American Cancer Society.

The grand prize is a 50/50 raffle… lots of other prizes and activities will be available! Purple Bark for Life t-shirts and doggie bandannas will also be available.

Special guests include:
• Chow Hound Pet Supplies
• Fancy Pants Paws
• Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue
• Lularoe – Lindsay Gainor
• Kai & Cocoa’s Threads
• The Ella Foundation

Thank you to all of our sponsors, including the Hudsonville-Jenison Community Foundation for their generous donation of $10,000 and the Chow Hound Pet Supplies community who helped contribute a match!

Grand Ravines Dog Park: 3991 Fillmore Street, Jenison, Michigan

Our event sponsors!

The Future of the Supreme Court and Abortion

On November 8, American voters will decide who will be the next president of the United States, which ma also determine who will be appointed to the Supreme Court over the next four years. Does this matter?

In the Fall 2016 Right to Life of Michigan News, the author examines the importance of how the next president may determine Supreme Court picks.

According to the article, Republican Donald Trump, who has been endorsed by the Right to Life of Michigan Political Action Committee, released a list of Judges as examples of who he would consider. His list has received praise by prolife groups, and other organizations that believe judges should follow the rule of law, and not write the laws. He said his nominees may even overturn Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion.

Democrat Hillary Clinton, the article says, is endorsed by Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the nation. She favors her judicial picks supporting Roe v. Wade. It further says that Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and others have suggested that Roe v. Wade doesn’t go far enough, and that tax-funded abortions should be guaranteed beyond the realm of voters and legislatures.

The U.S. Supreme Court, the article suggests, has too much influence on our nation’s policies and politics. The next President may be able to appoint four Justices, who may take the court in a particular direction for 25 years or more. The decision of voters could could affect the future lives of millions of children in the U.S. and our abortion policies as Roe v. Wade is either overturned or supported.

The full article and useful information for voters is available here: https://rtl.org/pdf/Fall-2016-Right-to-Life-of-MI-News.pdf

You can also get more information about these presidential candidates and other free educational tools at www.RTL.org/election.

Excessive Court Fees on Youth are Examined

From the September 19, 2016 Coopersville Observer article by Mary Kuhlman, MI News Connection.

Young people in Michigan and other states can be pulled deeper into the juvenile justice system because of excessive court related costs. According to a report from the Juvenile Law Center, fees and fines in Michigan include the cost of tests and evaluations, rehabilitation and court operation. These are costs that many families, especially those living in poverty, can’t afford. This may increase recidivism and keep a young person from getting on the right track.

The report recommends that, by establishing better models for funding court systems, states eliminate costs, fines and fees on youth. It also recommends policies of restitution that consider rehabilitation while addressing a victim’s needs.

Secretary of State Employees Receive Big ‘Thank You’ for Helping to Save Lives

Gift of Life, Eversight celebrate first national DMV Appreciation Week

LANSING, Mich. – Gift of Life Michigan and Eversight Michigan – the state’s organ, tissue and eye donation programs – took the week, September 19-23, 2016, to thank Secretary of State and Motor Vehicle Departments (DMVs) across the country for their partnership and commitment to asking the donation question to their customers every day.

“Our SOS partners are the people on the front lines of service who have helped register more than 4.3 million donors in Michigan and 130 million nationwide,” said Dorrie Dils, CEO of Gift of Life Michigan. “They are critical to the process.”

Diana Kern, executive director of Eversight Michigan, agreed. “The work the SOS clerks, managers and other staff do directly contributes to life-saving, life-improving transplants. We are so grateful for their support,” Kern said.

During the inaugural National DMV Appreciation Week, Gift of Life and Eversight staff and volunteers thanked SOS clerks, shared stories of employees touched by donation or transplantation and provided materials to celebrate the SOS’s contributions to saving lives. The concept for the week was created by Donate Life America, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit alliance of national organizations and Donate Life State Teams committed to saving and healing lives through increased organ, eye and tissue donation.

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson welcomed the accolades. “Our Department of State employees have embraced donation,” Johnson said. “We do so many important things, but contributing to the saving of a life or giving someone sight is one of the most fulfilling parts of the job.”

In Michigan, over 56 percent of adults are currently on the donor registry, compared to just 27 percent in 2011. “By asking customers if they would like to join the donor registry, our staff has taken the state from one of the worst registration rates in the country to one of the best, and we’re still not done,” Johnson said. Nationally, about 53 percent of adults are on the registry.

David Fleming of Donate Life America said SOS and DMV employees deserve recognition for the gains. “Even with advances in technology, the partnership remains a primary source of donor registrations,” said Fleming, Donate Life’s president and CEO. “We could not have reached this milestone of registered donors and lives saved without the partnership and support of SOS offices and DMVs.”

To register your decision to be an organ, tissue and eye donor in the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, please go to GiftOfLifeMichigan.org or Michigan.gov/SOS.

Ask Dr. Universe – Colors

How many colors can we see? –Andrew P., 12

Dear Andrew,

The human eye can see millions and millions of colors. But believe it or not, some colors exist in our world that the human eye can’t see.

That’s what I found out when I went to visit my friend Rachna Narula, an optometrist at the Washington State University Vision Clinic. Using a special camera in her office, she took a picture of my retina, the part in the back of the eye that helps us see color.

Seeing color requires light, she said. When light comes into the eye, it travels to the retina, bounces around, and triggers certain nerves. This sends a signal to your brain. The brain helps translate this signal into an image. In fact, the brain actually plays a big part in how we see color. When you were a baby, your brain was still developing and so was your color vision, Narula said.

Narula explained that humans don’t typically develop full color vision until they are about half a year or so old. Scientists generally agree that babies can only see about eight inches in front of their faces. It’s a pretty blurry view, too. Babies’ eyes are more likely to pick up on black, white, and shades of grey, rather than colors.

But as the brain and eyes develop, they start to pick up on more color differences. The retina in the back of your eye has millions of tiny parts called cones. There are three kinds of cones typically found in the human eye: red, blue, and green.

It’s these three kinds of cones that work together and allow you to see millions of colors. If a person is missing one kind of cone or all of these kinds, they might have a kind of colorblindness. Scientists also think there might be a fourth kind of cone, Narula added. But they are still investigating to find out for sure.

Of course, we can’t know exactly what colors babies or other animals see because they can’t tell us. Instead, we can use what we know about the eye and cones to put together an idea of how it all works.

We cats have red, blue, and green kinds of cones, too. Dogs have only two kinds: one for blue and one for yellow. The mantis shrimp, with their rainbow-patterned exoskeletons, have 16 kinds of cones. This particular shrimp can even see certain kinds of ultraviolet light that humans can’t see. Different kinds and numbers of cones can give animals vastly different experiences of how they see the world.

After all, even a single color can change depending on the lighting, shadows, or environment. Who knows—maybe one day you’ll invent a color counting machine and we’ll be able to get an even better estimate of how many colors exist. In the meantime, pull out the crayons or mix some paint. Dr. Narula and I would love to see what colorful things you can create. Send a picture to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu for a chance to have it featured with this column on AskDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send your question to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

The North American Indian coming to Muskegon Museum of Art

Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian coming to Muskegon Museum of Art in 2017

Edward S. Curtis Piegan Encampment 1900/1911 Photogravure 12 x16 inches

Muskegon, Mich. – On May 11, 2017, The Muskegon Museum of Art will open an exhibition of national significance, Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian, the most ambitious exhibition undertaken by the Museum in its 104 year history.

Curtis’s portraits of Native Americans and landscapes, lifestyles, and rituals of Native American life have been extensively exhibited and collected singularly and in groups, and so have become iconic over the past century. Organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art, this exhibition will be one of the largest and most comprehensive surveys ever organized of Edward S. Curtis’s masterpiece, The North America Indian, a series of 20 bound books, each accompanied by a portfolio of photogravures (fine art intaglio-printed photographs). For what may be the first time, the entire collection of 723 photogravures will be put on display. The North American Indian books and portfolios held in the Museum’s collection is the 70th of a limited edition, acquired by subscription between 1908 and 1930.

Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian will open at the Muskegon Museum of Art on May 11, 2017, and will run through September 10, 2017. By committing over 80% of the museum’s gallery space for four months to this large and inclusive exhibition, visitors will be given a unique opportunity to experience first-hand the enormous depth and breadth of Edward Curtis’s vision and scholarship, and, to consider how Edward Curtis’s images may have influenced our understanding of Native American culture over the past century.

Edward S. Curtis Chief Joseph — Nez Perce 1903/1911 Photogravure 16 x 12 inches

In Curtis’s 30-year desperate quest to document what he believed to be a “vanishing race,” he organized a massive and decades-long ongoing artistic collaboration that left in its wake arguably history’s most celebrated photographic and ethnographic achievement. The rich and varied cultures of 80 different Native American tribes, most of which survive today in 21st century America despite a half millennia of innumerable obstacles, are displayed in Curtis’s photographs. This project celebrates the artistic genius and lasting cultural legacy of the work of one man who lost everything for his art and passed away in obscurity, while at the same time offering a critical assessment of this work’s meaning to our lives, and especially to the lives of Native Americans, today.

In addition to the photogravures, the exhibition will include the 20 bound text volumes that are part of Curtis’s North American Indian project, original field recordings he made of Native music; historic objects from Curtis’s life and work, and examples of cultural artifacts represented in the photogravures. A diverse array of public programming, in collaboration with area cultural partners, will accompany the exhibition to also tell our story of our own local Native American community.

Edward S. Curtis The Three Chiefs

Edward S. Curtis Kutenai Duck Hunter ca. 1910/1910 Photogravure 12 x 16 inches

Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour

Saturdays, October 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2016: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Muskegon, MI – Travel along some of Michigan’s most beautiful scenic drives during the annual Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour, held four Saturdays this Fall, October 5, 15, 22 & 29. This year, Muskegon County’s woods, dunes and scenic routes will be ablaze with color as our quaint beachtowns offer visitors the chance to enjoy farmers markets and harvest events, arts & cultural events, the White Lake Area’s Pumpkin Fest, and Fall festivities for the entire family! Children can pick up a free pumpkin at either Depot while they last.

Drive your car or ride your bike along this self-guided touring route to visit historic sites, enjoy nature, and get your picture taken amidst the beautiful Fall colors along the spectacular Lake Michigan shoreline.

Those participating in this FREE Fall event receive discounts to area museums, fine fall refreshments, and coupons and discounts from area businesses. Stop at the designated sites during these Saturdays, get your Color Tour Map stamped, turn in the completed map at either Depot, and you will be eligible to win two round trip tickets on the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry between Muskegon and Milwaukee, OR two tickets to Michigan’s Adventure Amusement and Water Park for use in the 2017 season.

Begin at either the Muskegon Union Depot, home of the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau at 6^th and Western Avenue in Downtown Muskegon, or the Whitehall Train Depot, home of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at 124 W Hanson Street, near the bridge connecting Whitehall to Montague.

Travel on some of Michigan’s most scenic, colorful roads for the 2016 Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour!

For additional details and information about the tour, contact the Muskegon County CVB at 231-724-3100 or 800-250-9283, or on the web at www.visitmuskegon.org or the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at 231-893-4585 or www.whitelake.org.

A Christmas Story

By Bob DeHare

Weeks ago my wife Debby and close friend, Naska embarked on one of many Saturday morning outings. First, a bagel and coffee at their favorite shop, then it’s off to do what good friends do best.

This morning the Eagles were having a fund raiser, selling donated items. The girls checked out all the unwanted treasures (Naska for some reason only known to her has to touch each and every item). They were soon drawn to the book section.

That afternoon after returning home, Debby showed me her new read. A most unusual titled book, with its dust cover in excellent condition for a book printed in 1996. Obviously the book had never been read or maybe even opened. The name of the book, “Who Were the Celts?” — Everything you ever wanted to know about the Celts, one thousand BC to the present, by Kevin Duffy. Chain armor, horseshoes, iron plough shares were just a few invented by Celts. The White House was designed and built by a man of Celtic descent. Their influence in art, literature, music, science, technology, warfare, and politics are written.

The year was 1996 an uncle had sent this book to a favorite niece, as a birthday present. The book never read, found its place in a corner bookcase. There it stayed for 16 years to one day be donated to a fund raiser. That afternoon Debby showed me her new book. My reaction was “REALLY…” Later that evening while sipping a cup of hot chocolate Debby loudly announced, “look what I found in my new book.” We both stared at a $1000.00 savings bond in pristine condition belonging to someone named Amanda, maturing in 2006.

It took some doing but with God’s help Debby located Amanda, now married, husband and two small children living in Ishpeming, Michigan. A small town in the Upper Peninsula.

Amanda returned our call and after answering several questions like what is the 7th number of your social security number, we knew we had the right Amanda. Amanda now 25 moved to the Upper Peninsula seven years ago because of a job offer for her husband. After only 5 years that job went south. So for the last two years, her family of four has been getting by on odd jobs.

Amanda’s savings bond was quickly sent with a promise of a Christmas card. I love a Christmas story.

Secretary of State Seeks Vendors

Secretary of State seeks vendors that can deliver on a new computer system for driver and vehicle files
–Request for Proposal requires experience, finished project in other jurisdiction

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is seeking a new vendor to build a computer system to replace one that’s been in place since the 1960s that serves offices around the state.

The new contract is needed after the state of Michigan sued Hewlett-Packard Co. (HPE) because it failed to deliver on a $49 million contract despite having 10 years to complete the project.

“We’re looking for a vendor to do what HP could not do: Deliver,” Johnson explained. “Companies bidding for the contract will be required to show that they have an efficient, successful and proven system up and running for both driver and vehicle files.”

A new system will ensure accountability to taxpayers and allow Secretary of State staff to better serve customers because they’ll have easier access to both driver and vehicle records. It also will allow law enforcement to get information in real time and the department to implement legislative changes much more quickly. A new system will provide employees a better, faster and much more efficient system that is more customer-friendly.

The new contract is also expected to require an independent contractor to monitor and verify what’s produced throughout the project, and vendors won’t get paid until they deliver.

A request for proposal was issued today with proposals from interested companies expected back by Oct. 25. Details of the RFP are available at www.buy4michigan.com.

More information about the current failed contract is available here, here and here.

For more about the Secretary of State’s Office:
To find Secretary of State office locations and services, visit www.michigan.gov/sos. Sign up for the official Secretary of State Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/michsos and Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/michigansos. Online services are available at www.expresssos.com.

Customers may call the Department of State Information Center to speak to a customer-service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).

United Way Launches Dolly Parton Imagination Library on the Lakeshore

United Way Launches Dolly Parton Imagination Library on the Lakeshore

(MUSKEGON, MI) – On September 17, 2016, My Subaru partnered with United Way of the Lakeshore and the Tri-Cities Area Imagination Library to host the CARnival for Kids Literacy to launch the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in the Lakeshore area with a long-term goal to build an educated workforce and help reach the United Way’s bold goal to see 10,000 more working families meet their basic needs by 2025. The United Way piloted this program in Muskegon Heights and Holton Public Schools last year as an effort to assist the READ EARLY READ OFTEN initiative. Dolly Parton’s program objective is to instill a love of reading in children (from birth to age 5) by sending the gift of a book to a child’s home each month. The launch event, held at the Subaru Building at My Auto Import Center, 1860 East Sternberg Road in Muskegon, was aimed at raising awareness of the program and the importance of early childhood literacy to success in school and careers, as well as raising funds to support the expansion of the program into more school districts. The public was invited to attend the CARnival for Kids Literacy. For those interested in being part of the United Way’s school success efforts, please call Christine Robere, President & CEO, United Way of the Lakeshore at 231-332-4001.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 10/03/16-10/10/16

Muskegon County Calendar of Events: Monday October 3, 2016 – Monday October 10, 2016

Gettysburg Lecture Series
October 3 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center, 430 W. Clay Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, come to the Gettysburg Lecture Series at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Muskegon Community College and the Museum are sponsoring a four-part lecture series which precedes a four-day Gettysburg Guided Tour. The cost of the series is $30 for Museum members and $35 for non-members, or $10 per lecture. The cost of the trip is $485. Registration is requested for the lecture. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.

Richard Mullally-Untold Stories of Muskegon’s WWII Vets
October 3 @ 6:00 pm
USS Silversides Museum, 1346 Bluff St. Muskegon, MI 49441
For more than 10 years, for 6 days a week, Richard has gathered the pictures and stories of Muskegon County’s WW II veterans. When he spoke at the USS Silversides Submarine a few years ago, he had found 2,000 veterans and their families. Now he has found 5,000 and is still going strong! These are the stories of our friends and neighbors that we do not know about. Come hear his captivating stories, and acknowledge. $5 per person

We Are Stars
October 4 @ 7:00 pm
Carr-Fles Planetarium, 221 S. Quarterline Rd. Muskegon, MI 49442
There’s a new show at the Carr-Fles Planetarium! “We Are Stars” is a 35-minute, family-friendly adventure that that spans the billions of years between the Big Bang and modern day, and follows the thread that connects us all to those early times through the atoms from which our bodies are formed. Where did they come from? How did they get here? And is it true that we really are all made of stars?

White Lake Classical Series
October 4 @ 7:00 pm
Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St. Montague, MI 49437
Tuesday, October 4 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the White Lake Classical Series featuring Anna Nordmoe on violin. The cover is only $5. Come early for dinner at 6:15pm to enjoy Wiener Schnitzel, smashed Yukon gold potatoes, braised red cabbage, a glass of house wine and an apple crisp for only $17. RSVP by calling 231-894-5333.

AhFest: Films Inspired by Dennis Lehane
October 5 @ 6:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 West Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
Sit back, relax and enjoy a free movie and popcorn during AhFest! “Mystic River,” “Gone Baby Gone,” “Shutter Island” and “The Drop” will be shown during the Muskegon Area Arts and Humanities Festival throughout October. All four movies are based on novels by Dennis Lehane, whose lecture will close the festival on Thursday, October 27. All movies will be shown at 6:00pm on Wednesdays at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Beer and wine will be available at a cash bar.

Art & A Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the Muskegon Museum of Art
October 6 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 West Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!” Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older.

Harvest Festival at Muskegon State Park
October 7 – October 9
Muskegon State Park, 3560 Memorial Dr.Muskegon, MI 49445
Campers are invited to the Harvest Festival at the Channel Campground inside Muskegon State Park. There’s a hotdog roast Friday at 6:00pm until all the hotdogs are gone! Saturday, start with morning coffee followed by two hours of activities for the children including the egg toss, marshmallow eating contest, pumpkin bowling and a parade! Smokey the Bear will be there for the scavenger hunt, trick or treating and more. For more information, call 231-744-3480.

Haunted Hall
October 7
Muskegon County Fairgrounds, 6621 Heights Ravenna Rd., Fruitport, MI 49415
Haunted Hall, one of the county’s oldest haunted attractions, is back in 2016, and this year it’s designed to be bigger and better than ever. The attraction, which debuted in 1999, will take place at the Muskegon County Fairgrounds, 6621 Heights Ravenna Rd. in Fruitport Township, Fridays and Saturdays, October 1-29. This year’s theme is “The Quarantine Zone” and features three haunts for the price of one; The Foundry, The Bunker and The Containment Zone! Enter all three haunts for only $15.00

Buster Keaton Society Convention & Film Festival
October 7 @ 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave # 200 Muskegon, MI 49440
Damfino’s make their annual trek to Muskegon for the Buster Keaton Society Convention and Film Festival! Saturday evening October 8 the public is invited to join them at the beautiful Frauenthal Center to see Buster on the big screen with accompaniment on the Barton Organ. Please see their website to attend the convention or to register at busterkeaton.com. To become a member of the Keaton Society visit busterstuff.com.

First Fridays Series
October 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Downtown Muskegon, MI
Muskegon’s new First Fridays Series will take over the sidewalks, street corners and stages of downtown Muskegon first Friday of every month! Tonight it’s “Fire & Acoustics!” Enjoy bonfires and acoustic music on the street corners of downtown Muskegon. For more info, “Like” the First Friday Series Facebook pages or call Ellen at 231-724-3173.

Dias de los Muertos: Opening Reception
October 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Red Lotus Gallery, 356 W. Western Ave.Muskegon, MI 49440
Muskegon Community Arts and the Red Lotus Gallery invite you to the opening reception for “Dias de los Muertos”, a wall to honor those who have passed. Century Club will pay homage to the people in your life who have inspired you.

The Magic of Bill Blagg
October 7 @ 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave # 200 Muskegon, MI 49440 United States
Get ready to experience the impossible! The MAGIC of BILL BLAGG LIVE! national tour comes to the Frauenthal Center for one show only! Critics and audiences alike rave about his incredible high-energy, grand-scale magic & illusions that will have you rubbing your eyes in disbelief. Referred to as “Houdini Times Ten!” by NBC, Blagg’s Las Vegas style show is packed with NEW mind-blowing illusions and his trademark off-the-cuff personality.

Free Tours of the Hackley & Hume Site for Muskegon County Residents
October 8
Hackley & Hume Historic Site, 484 W. Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
Tours of the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons are free for Muskegon County residents on weekends during the month of October. Saturday hours are 10:00am-4:00pm, Sunday hours are 1:00-4:00pm. For more information, call 231-722-7578.

Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char
October 8 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Learn the basics to homemade stocks and broths as the foundation to several soup possibilities. Demo and discuss: Tips for making clear stocks, understand difference between stock, broth and bisque. We will be making hearty bread bowls and two large batches of soup. Older Teens and Adults. Cost $35. Phone: 231-722-3251 or www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com

Hike for the Hungry
October 8 @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Heritage Landing, 1050 7th St., Muskegon, MI 49440
Please join the Muskegon Rescue Mission, Love INC and Catholic Charities for the 4th Annual Hike for the Hungry at Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon. This beautiful park features gorgeous water views making it a pleasure for walkers and runners alike. Sign up now and start raising money for a great cause. Come on your own or form a team. Check-in begins at 8:30am.

Pumpkin Fest
October 8 @ 9:30 am
White Lake Area, Muskegon, MI
Pumpkin Fest features pumpkin pie baking contests, seed spitting contests, pumpkin painting and carving contests, and the festival favorite, the Pumpkin Roll down Dowling Hill with over 700 contestants of all ages. Registration for the roll begins at 9:30am. The White Lake Senior Center will have food specials to go along with vendors selling elephant ears, hot dogs, pizzas, candied apples and more! 231-893-4585 www.whitelake.org

Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour
October 8 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon
Gather your family and friends to experience the vibrant fall colors at the Depot-to-Depot Fall Color Tour! This free self-guided tour happens October 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10:00am – 4:00pm. “Color Tourers” can pick up a map at either the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau located in the historic Union Depot at 610 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon or at the White Lake Area Chamber/CVB at the Whitehall Depot 124 W. Hanson St., Whitehall. 231-724-3100 www.visitmuskegon.org or 231-893-4585 www.whitelake.org

City of the Dead Muskegon
October 8 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Evergreen Cemetery, 391 Irwin Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
This is Muskegon’s 7th annual “Us & Them” cemetery tours and historical re-enactment of our local founders & fellows! The dates are Saturday, October 8 from 6:00-8:00pm and Sunday, October 9 from 2:00-4:00pm. Tickets are just $5 each and kids under 6 are FREE

Lakeshore Bridal Expo 2016
October 9 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Muskegon Country Club, 2801 Lakeshore Dr. Muskegon, MI 49441
FREE admission to this annual event in Muskegon for future bride & grooms with their families. Let our teams take care of everything for you. Pre-register at www.LakeshoreBridalExpo.com. Arrive between 1:00pm-4:00pm at the Muskegon Country Club located at 2801 Lakeshore Dr.

Howling Harbor! Muskegon Artists’ Market
October 9 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Harbor Theater, 1937 Lakeshore Dr. Muskegon, MI 49441
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.

City of the Dead Muskegon
October 9 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Evergreen Cemetery, 391 Irwin Ave. Muskegon, MI 49440
This is Muskegon’s 7th annual “Us & Them” cemetery tours and historical re-enactment of our local founders & fellows! This has been such a huge interest there has been a matinee added to the schedule this year. The dates are Saturday, October 8 from 6:00-8:00pm and Sunday, October 9 from 2:00-4:00pm. Tickets are just $5 each and kids under 6 are FREE

Drug Court Celebrates Third Recovery Coach Academy

The 20th Circuit Court is pleased to announce the Adult Drug Treatment Court, a specialty program for non-violent felony offenders with acute substance use disorders, recently hosted their third Recovery Coach Academy. To date, 66 people from across West Michigan, who are in stable and sustained recovery from drug or alcohol addiction have participated in the academy.

Priscilla Shafor and Anthony Sledge, certified peer recovery coaches for the drug court, organized and co-facilitated the academies. The academy follows the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery model for training peer recovery coaches which is recognized as an emerging best practice by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and is supported by the Michigan Department of Community Health

“A peer recovery coach serves as a mentor to people who are involved in treatment for substance use disorders or serves as a guide for people seeking or already in recovery,” says Shafor. By hosting this academy the drug court has been instrumental in building a cadre of certified recovery coaches who will be employable at substance abuse treatment agencies in Ottawa County and West Michigan.

The Recovery Coach Academy is funded by a 3-year federal grant from SAMHSA, designed to enhance substance use disorder treatment services available to the drug court. The drug court’s day-to-day operations, however, remain dependent on state grant dollars and the continued financial support of Ottawa County. For questions about enrolling in the recovery coach academy please contact Priscilla Shafor at 616-396-5284.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees — September 26, 2016

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 26, 2016

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, September 26, 2016, in the township board room.

Members Present: Brian Werschem, Supervisor; Carol Hulka, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Ron Becklin, Dave Markgraf, Marjorie Nash, and Chuck Whitlow. Members Absent: None

At 7:00 p.m., Supervisor Werschem opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed with a prayer.

Also Present: 5 – residents, 0 – employees, 1 – guest, Public Safety Director, Michelli, DPW Director, Farrar, and Attorney Bultje

The meeting minutes of September 12, 2016, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The motion by Chuck Whitlow, seconded by Dave Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to approve the meeting agenda with the following additions under new business:

Evidence Tech
Soccer Club Contract

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1)Michigan Townships Association legislative updates
2)Fruitport Township Planning Commission meeting minutes dated September 20, 2016
PUBLIC COMMENTS— none received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

16-081 Public Works Service Agreement – Odeno Development
Chuck Whitlow moved, Ron Becklin supported, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Public Water and Sanitary Sewer Extension Agreement dated September 19, 2016, between Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and Fruitport Charter Township, and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to sign the Agreement.

Ayes: Whitlow, Becklin, Nash, Dillon, Hulka, Markgraf, Werschem Nays: None

16-082 Muskegon County Prosecutors Agreement

Chuck Whitlow moved, Dave Markgraf supported, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Muskegon County Prosecutors Agreement dated September 22, 2016,between Fruitport Charter Township and Muskegon County Prosecutor, and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to sign the Agreement substantially as drafted. The purpose of this Agreement is to provide for the prosecution by the Prosecutor’s office of ordinance violations cited by the Township through its Police Department.

Ayes: Whitlow, Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Werschem Nays: None

16-083 Retail Fraud Ordinance – First Reading

The Township Board made a recommendation to adopt the Retail Fraud Ordinance that will protect the public health, safety, and general welfare by prohibiting certain defined behavior in the Charter Township of Fruitport.

This constitutes the first reading. Final action will take place at the next regular meeting scheduled on October 10, 2016.

NEW BUSINESS
16-084 Hiring of an Evidence Tech
Dave Markgraf moved, supported by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Public Safety Director to hire a part time Evidence Tech at a cost not to exceed $16.00 per hour. The recommendation was made by the Public Safety Committee.

Ayes: Markgraf, Becklin, Nash, Dillon, Hulka, Whitlow, Werschem Nays: None

16-085 Soccer Club Contract – there was discussion with no action taken

16-086 Payment of Bills

Dave Markgraf moved, Carol Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $34,895.55; Public Safety $32,952.99; Water $19,627.28; and Sewer $15,745.09. Totaling: $103,220.91

Ayes: Nash, Markgraf, Whitlow, Hulka, Dillon, Becklin, Werschem Nays: None

REPORTS – none received

PUBLIC COMMENTS: PART II – None received

The motion by Chuck Whitlow, supported by Dave Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:24 p.m.

_______________________________ ______________________________

CAROL HULKA, CLERK BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Cruise Ship Season Is Done….What’s Next?!?

Submitted by the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

The last ship of the season docked at the Port of Muskegon on Wednesday, August 31.

There were 10 port of calls this summer, which exposed over 2,000 passengers and crew to beautiful Muskegon for the first time. Their overwhelming response was nothing but positive. Thanks to the people and businesses of Muskegon, we heard things like, “The people are so friendly”, “Your city is so clean” and “The architecture is beautiful”.

Pearl Seas has already confirmed another 10 stops at the Port of Muskegon in 2017 and there is potential for even more stops from different cruise ship companies down the road.

Candidate Bio: John Austin

Candidate for State Board of Education

John is running for reelection to the State Board of Education, after having served as President of the Board for the past three years. John brings a unique perspective to the SBE, as a non-resident senior fellow with the Brookings Institution and the director of the Michigan Economic Center. He knows that education is the engine of opportunity for Michigan children in our changing economy, and he fights for equity in education quality so that every student has the same shot at a successful career in the field of their choice.

John supports investing more in our schools, and devoting more funding to students with the greatest need— for example, special education students and non-native English speakers. His opponents seek to continue the trend of defunding our public schools in favor of unregulated charter and cyber schools that aren’t being held accountable to Michigan taxpayers. John has led our state’s business, education and higher education community to help more of our people access and succeed in public education. John wants to raise up our struggling public schools and move Michigan forward as a model state for education excellence and higher education attainment.

Candidate Bio: Nikki Snyder

Republican Candidate for State Board of Education

Born in Marquette, Michigan, Nikki has been a lifelong Michigan resident. She now lives in Whitmore Lake with her husband and three children and is running for the State Board of Education.

Working at University of Michigan for over 9 years in various roles, she started her career as a Registered Nurse in Labor and Delivery at Von Voightlander Women’s Hospital. Now working at Providence Park Hospital in Novi, Michigan, Nikki is a Lactation Consultant and teaches Breastfeeding Education. She is also a Part-Time Faculty Instructor in the Department of Nursing at Washtenaw Community College.

Nikki is an advocate for women, children and mental health. Her third child was born a pediatric amputee, missing a right forearm and hand. She raised over $10,000 for Detroit Variety Children’s Charity – Myoelectric Program, which funds the spectrum of care and prosthesis provided for pediatric amputees for kids around the world.

There are many issues facing Michigan schools today and Nikki plans to bring professional, parental and advocate experience to the table to represent the future success of our children. Her top priorities are Special Education Reform, Student Achievement, Local Control and Parental Rights.

Facebook.com/NikkiSnyderSBOE

NikkiSnyder.net

Candidate Bio: Ronald E. Graeser

Candidate for U.S. Congress, 2^nd District

Candidate for U.S. Congress, Dr. Ronald Graeser, is a family practice physician. He grew up in Tucson, Arizona and received his B.S.E.E. from the University of Arizona. After working as an electrical engineer for three years he took premedical courses at Calvin College and then attended the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine where he received his medical degree in 1970. He has practiced in Newaygo county since 1972. He was the medical examiner for 23 years in Newaygo, Lake, and Osceola counties. He retired from the U.S. Army Reserves medical corps with the rank of colonel after 20 years service. He is married to his first wife and has three grown children.

Candidate Bio: Judge Timothy G. Hicks

Candidate for Circuit Court Judge

Timothy G. Hicks has served as your Circuit Judge since 1996. During that time, he has managed several thousand criminal and civil cases, and has presided over 250 jury trials. He was Chief Judge of the 14th Circuit from 1999-2002.

Judge Hicks is widely respected throughout the State. He was President of the Michigan Judges Association in 2012. He currently serves as Chairman of the Michigan Supreme Court’s Committee on Model Criminal Jury Instructions. He has also taught many classes for the Michigan Judicial Institute, the educational arm of the Michigan Supreme Court, and wrote an article about innovations in the conduct of jury trials for the Michigan State Bar Journal.

Prior to his appointment to the Bench, Judge Hicks was in private law practice for thirteen years. Before that time, he worked as a teacher, counselor, and coach in two different Michigan high schools.

He considers it a high honor and great privilege to serve as your Circuit Judge.

Decision America Tour with Franklin Graham

Franklin Graham led thousands at the Decision America Tour prayer rallies in August, travelling to eight states to encourage crowds to stand up for God and our country. An estimated total of 22,200 people joined Franklin during events in Helena, Mont., Boise, Idaho, Cheyenne, Wyo., Augusta, Maine, Montpelier, Vt., Albany, N.Y., Boston, Mass. and Providence, R.I.

Thursday’s prayer rally in Hartford, Conn., marked Franklin’s 41st Decision America Tour stop. His message remains consistent as he encourages those in attendance to accept the Lord and to sign a pledge of commitment to God and the country, committing to vote for godly leaders and to prayerfully consider running for local office.

Franklin has three remaining stops in September and six in October. September stops include: Dover, Del., on Sept. 13; Trenton, N.J., on Sept. 14; and Harrisburg, Pa., on Sept. 15. Decision America Tour will conclude in October with Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina.

For more information about the Decision America Tour, including a full list of tour dates, visit www.decisionamericatour.com.

Ask Dr. Universe – Seashells

Why do we hear the sea in a seashell? -Steve, Minnewaska School, Minnesota

Dear Steve,

Whenever us cats go to the beach, we tend to keep a safe distance from the water and like to explore the shore. I once stumbled upon a big, beautiful pink and white seashell.

When I put my ear up to it, I heard the familiar sound of whooshing waves. While there wasn’t actually an ocean inside, I figured the sound had to be coming from somewhere. So, I decided to investigate. You can try it out, too.

First, close your eyes and listen without a shell. Well, I suppose you are interested in reading this so you may not want to close your eyes, but definitely take a listen.

Perhaps you hear people talking, music playing, or a cat meowing. These sounds travel as waves from their sources at 761 miles per hour. When the waves reach your ears, they make your eardrums vibrate, and you can hear the sounds.

Just like a ball, these sound waves can bounce. A shell has a hard and curved surface. It is pretty good at reflecting, or bouncing the sounds around.

That’s what I found out from my friend Allison Coffin, a scientist at Washington State University. Her research helps people who experience hearing loss.

“When we hold a seashell up to our ear, we don’t actually hear the sea,” she said. “What we hear is normal sound from the environment we are in at the time—whether that’s your bedroom or the beach.”

As the sound waves bounce around inside the shell, they get a bit distorted, Coffin adds. A shell is a good kind of resonating device as air vibrates through it’s hollow inside.

It’s similar to the phenomenon of blowing across an empty glass bottle to make a whirring sound. Scientists can use their knowledge of how sounds move through different spaces as they engineer car engines, create musical instruments, and even reduce noise in planes.

You can find out more about how this distorted sound works by playing with some sound waves. Grab a shell, a cup, a mug, or even a toilet paper tube. You can also just place your hand around your ear and cup the end with your other hand.

Put one of these listening devices up to your ear and walk into rooms with different sounds. Listen to how the sounds in the shell change as you move from room to room. You might even try it out in a quiet room to hear what happens.

If you already happen to be standing on the beach, then you might just pick up on the sounds of the actual sea. After all, when you hear the sound of the sea in a shell, you are really hearing a combination of all the sounds around you at that very moment.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send your question to Dr. Universe at AskDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Ask Dr. Universe – Roots

How do plants hold dirt? –Gordon, Pullman, WA

Dear Gordon,

The other day, I wandered into a Washington State University greenhouse and ran into my friend Mechthild Tegeder, a professor and expert on plants.

She gently dug a small plant out of a pot so we could take a closer look. When she lifted it up, I pawed at the clumpy soil hanging from the bottom to reveal some stringy roots.

“They’re amazing, aren’t they?” Tegeder said. “The root system functions like a web, anchoring the plant and the soil.”

The plant had lots of short, fine roots growing near the surface. Tegeder explained that another kind of root is a taproot and it tends to grow straight down. You have eaten one of these before if you’ve ever had a carrot.

While some roots grow near the surface, other roots make a journey deeper into the Earth. In fact, scientists have found roots nearly 200 feet below the surface of huge trees.

These roots can grow wide, too. Like the underwater part of an iceberg, a plant’s underground web of roots can take up to about four times as much space as the plant itself.

Whether you look at the roots of a giant tree, a little dandelion, or a carrot, they each have a couple things in common. As you know, they anchor plants to the soil. But they also deliver water and nutrients, or food, to the above-ground part of the plant.

Plants actually do this using really tiny hairs that sprout out of their roots. These little root hairs absorb the water and nutrients from the dirt. They deliver them up the roots, to the stem, and the rest of the plant or tree.

And roots look for these important resources anywhere they can. That’s part of the reason they will grow out in different directions.

In fact, there is even a special part of these hairs that scientists believe helps the roots sense where they are going in the soil. It’s a bit like an obstacle course, or like using your hands to navigate through a dark room.

These roots will grow in any space they can find. For small plants, this might mean empty space between clumps of soil. For big trees, it might mean roots that start to grow up and over sidewalks or walls.

Not all roots grow down or underground, though. Roots can grow up and out of the soil to reach into the air for nutrients and water. Then there are plants that don’t have roots at all.

But roots are really helpful to plants that do use them. As the roots and soil hang onto each other, they keep the important top layer of soil—the part we use to grow food—from washing away in the rain or blowing away in strong winds. Roots don’t just help the plant, but also the soil itself.

As you can see, it really just takes a bit of digging to get to the bottom of it. Keep asking great science questions.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send your own question to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or vote in this week’s reader poll at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Looking for Your Lost Bicycle?

If you or your child is missing a bicycle from the Fruitport area, we may have them here. Many misplaced bikes get dropped off at our Police Department. We’d like to return lost bikes to their owners, so if you are missing a bike, call (231) 865-8477 and give us a description of it.

Citizens are encouraged to bring found property or bicycles to the Fruitport Township Police Department at 5825 Airline Hwy, Monday – Friday from 8am – 4pm.

View this message on the web: https://local.nixle.com/alert/5719564/?sub_id=1021498

A Doggy Development

The Downtown Muskegon Dog Park project became official this month with the launch of a crowdfunding site.

The new off-leash dog park will be approximately .7 acres, contain separate large and small dog areas, dog agility equipment, natural grass, doggie drinking fountains, picnic tables, benches and a dog grooming area.

The triangle-shaped lot is located at 793 W. Western Avenue and is known by many as the Carpenter Brother Site. “The Downtown Muskegon Dog Park is a gateway to revitalization in the area,” said Dave Alexander, Executive Director of Downtown Muskegon Now. “It is one of many developments that are taking place on the most Western portion of Western Avenue.”

The Dog Park project secured a match from the MEDC, which doubles every donation made. The project has 4 weeks to raise $50,000, which is the max that the MEDC will match.

The project is being coordinated by partners including: Downtown Muskegon Now, The City of Muskegon, Muskegon County, The Community Foundation for Muskegon County, Baker College Vet Tech Program, Watermark Center, The Coffee Factory, Halfshell Graphics, Christopher C. Cordle Designs and the Friends of the Muskegon Dog Beach.

The Spoonville Trail – Phase I Complete

Ottawa County Announces the Completion of Phase I of the Spoonville Trail

Ottawa County is excited to announce the completion of Phase I of the Spoonville Trail. To celebrate the completion of this non-motorized pathway, a Ribbon-Cutting and Donor Recognition Ceremony was held on Friday, September 16^th at 4:00 p.m. The Ceremony featured guest speaker, State Representative Amanda Price. The event was at the Spoonville Trail located at 12300 North Cedar Drive, Grand Haven, MI 49417.

Phase I of the Spoonville Trail stretches 1.8 miles from North Cedar Drive to Leonard Road, incorporating the Sgt. Henry E. Plant Pathway located on M-231 over the Grand River. Watch a virtual tour of the Spoonville Trail.

“The Spoonville Trail is a valued addition to Ottawa County’s non-motorized trail system,” said Ottawa County Administrator Al Vanderberg. “The Spoonville Trail will provide Ottawa County residents and visitors with the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of the Grand River, access numerous State and local parks and recreational areas along the Grand River, experience safe non-motorized transportation, and visit local land marks in Nunica.”

The Trail will also offer historical and cultural education opportunities. The Sgt. Henry E. Plant Pathway includes a plaque that commemorates Ottawa County’s first Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. In addition, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will be constructing an educational terrace designed to educate users on local Native American culture and heritage, while displaying images of artifacts found in the area during the construction of the M-231 highway.

These benefits of Phase I of the Spoonville Trail could not be realized without the funding partners that contributed to the $1 million cost to construct the Trail. The Federal Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) at MDOT is the largest funding contributor, providing more than $600,000 in federal funds toward pathway construction. Ottawa County would like to recognize the many funding partners and donors who have made Phase I of the Spoonville Trail possible:

– MDOT TAP	– Scholten-Fant
– Ottawa County	– Youth Advisory Council of the GHACF
– West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition	– Quiet Water Society
– Grand Haven Area Community Foundation	– Charter Communications
– Consumers Energy	– Rycenga Building Center
– The Loutit Foundation	– Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey D. Johnson
– Shape Corporation	– Mr. & Mrs. John H. Nash
– Ottawa County Parks and Recreation	– Spoonville Gun Club
– M-231 Run	– Ms. Jacqueline Fisher
– DALMAC Foundation	– Mr. & Mrs. Jack Fisher

Phase II of the Spoonville Trail is scheduled to be constructed in the summer of 2017. This remaining 2 miles of non-motorized pathway will span from Leonard Road and 120^th Avenue to Nunica and will include over 1000 feet of pathway crossing the Crockery Creek Natural Area.

The Spoonville Trail is designed to be the key connection between the North Bank Trail (north side of the Grand River) and the Grand River Greenway Trail (south side of the Grand River). These trails will form a regional loop of non-motorized pathways known as the “Grand Connection” that will span from the shore of Lake Michigan to Grand Rapids.

Anyone who would like more information about making a tax deductible contribution to Phase II of the Spoonville Trail is encouraged to contact the Planning and Performance Improvement Department.

spoonville-map_original

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 09/26/16-10/03/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

A Murder is Announced
September 16 – October 1
Event Navigation
September 16 – October 1, the Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you to the Beardsley Theater for “A Murder is Announced!” An announcement in the local paper states the time and place when a murder is to occur in Miss Blacklock’s Victorian house. What follows is a classic Agatha Christie puzzle of mixed motives, concealed identities, a second death, a determined Inspector grimly following the twists and turns, and the iconic sleuth Miss Marple on hand to solve the mystery.

Tickets are $20 & $22. For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org.

Register Now for Ballroom & Tango Dancing Classes
September 6 – September 30
Muskegon Community Arts invites you to have some fun and dance with professional dance instructors in the beautiful Century Club Ballroom! Classes are held for 6 weeks, October 4 – November 22. You can take a class of your choice for $80, or $160 for both. Beginner Ballroom style dance is from 6:00-7:00pm and Intermediate Tango and Quickstep is from 7:00-8:00pm. The deadline for registration is October 1. For more information or to sign up, visit www.muskegonca.org.

A Call to Artists! Register Now for Dias de los Muertos
September 14 @ 10:00 am – September 27 @ 8:00 pm
Event Navigation
Muskegon Community Arts and the Red Lotus Gallery in the Century Club are putting out a call to artists to register now for “Dias de los Muertos”, to honor those who have passed. Submit your creation of artwork or bring in pictures of your loved ones who have passed. A wall will be created to pay homage to these people in your life who have inspired you. Your submissions are due by September 27 before 5:30pm to enter this event. To obtain a submission form, visit www.muskegonca.org. There is a small fee of $5-$10 for your piece of artwork. The open house for this event will be held on October 7 from 6:00-8:00pm. The Display Wall can be viewed throughout the month of October.

Exhibit Opening: Works by Deborah Rockman
September 26 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
A new exhibit, “Us and Them: Works by Deborah Rockman,” opens at the Muskegon Community College Overbrook Art Gallery on Monday, September 26 and will continue through October 28. Free and open to the public, the exhibit is linked to the Muskegon Area Arts and Humanities Festival (ahFest), which explores this year’s theme of “Us and Them”, through a range of cultural events occurring at various community locations during National Humanities Month. There will be a special weekend and evening hours during performances of “Avenue Q: The Musical” in the adjacent Overbrook Theater October 12-16. For more information, call 231-777-0324.

Gettysburg Lecture Series
September 26 & October 3 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, come to the Gettysburg Lecture Series at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Muskegon Community College and the Museum are sponsoring a four-part lecture series which precedes a four-day Gettysburg Guided Tour. The cost of the series is $30 for Museum members and $35 for non-members, or $10 per lecture. The cost of the trip is $485. Registration is requested for the lecture. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.

Bark for Our Park
September 26 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Monday, September 26 at 6:00pm, come to the “Bark for Our Park” celebration at Muskegon’s new downtown dog park! It’s a big old dog party to celebrate a $25,000 grant to help build the city’s first off-leash dog park with giveaways and fun, interactive projects for families and dogs. Fatty Lumpkin’s Sandwich Shack, The Coffee Factory, Ice Box Brand Ice Cream Bars, Back Alley Improv, Jessamy’s, Lefteyeplacebo, Umbrella Promotions Fundraising, Wildflower Studios, Halfshell Graphics, Greater Muskegon Kennel Club and Pound Buddies will all be there! Bring your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and, of course, your dogs! The park is not fenced in at this time, so all dogs must be on a leash. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

We Are Stars
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
There’s a new show at the Carr-Fles Planetarium! “We Are Stars” is a 35-minute, family-friendly adventure that that spans the billions of years between the Big Bang and modern day, and follows the thread that connects us all to those early times through the atoms from which our bodies are formed. Where did they come from? How did they get here? And is it true that we really are all made of stars? The science content is most appropriate for ages 11 and up; however, the entrancing animation and award-winning soundtrack will draw all ages into the magical universe created within this incredible show. No reservations are needed for this FREE program, which runs August 23 – October 27 on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00pm (doors open by 6:45), and includes a brief demonstration of the current night sky. The planetarium is in room 135 of Muskegon Community College (221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon). For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA
Thursdays @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!” Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. For more information call 231-720-2570.

Cinnamon Rolls and Sticky Buns with Chef Char
September 29 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Event Navigation
Thursday, September 29^th – Older Teens and Adults Cinnamon Rolls and Sticky Buns with Chef Char 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Learn the secrets to making a fantastic dough that can be rolled out and filled with any combination of cinnamon, fruits or nuts. Learn the secrets to making a classic pecan caramel topping for sticky buns and a smooth cream cheese frosting or a sweet honey glaze for fresh cinnamon rolls. Older Teens and Adults/$35

Thursday Night Music Club: Boogie Woogie Kid
September 29 at 7:00pm, the fall season of the MADL Thursday Night Music Club kicks off in a big way with Matthew Ball: The Boogie Woogie Kid, a pianist with a performance history that spans everything from symphony appearances to Jazz and Blues festivals. Featured on NPR’s All Things Considered and Morning Edition, Matthew performs classic Ragtime, Boogie-woogie & Blues piano favorites from the swinging era of the 20’s 30’s & 40’s.

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

Halloween Harvest Weekend
September 30 – October 2
Event Navigation
The 2nd Annual Halloween Harvest Weekend at Pioneer County Park will take place this year Friday, September 30 to Sunday, October 2. During Friday night check-in, there’ll be goody bags for the kids, s’mores and a bonfire at the Lodge and a Glow in the Dark Bike Parade! Saturday, enjoy breakfast in the Lodge, free pumpkins and pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, hayrides, face painting, Trick or Treating, site decorating contest, obstacle course and a Haunted Trail. Sunday is check-out. Reserve your campsite now for only $28 per night (2 night minimum). For more information, call 231-744-3580.

Oktoberfest: Biers, Bands & Brats
September 30 – October 1
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September 30- October 1st, you’re invited to Muskegon State Park for an Oktoberfest!

The Muskegon Oktoberfest is a two day event with a Bavarian flare. It begins Friday night with the ceremonial tapping of the keg and some great music. This will be your first chance to get a taste of the Exclusive Oktoberfest beers brewed just for this event by local breweries. New this year is the Apfelwein Luge Lounge, where they’ll have beer and wine tasting at the Luge track Friday night.

Return Saturday afternoon for the Volksmarch, a traditional German hike through the forest with friends. Kids can enjoy the Hansel & Gretel Kids trail while the adults get a taste of Michigan’s longest beer trail, featuring four biergartens with live entertainment. Main stage performances from Ein Prosit and Westside Soul Surfers will complete the Oktoberfest fun. For tickets or more information, visit www.msports.org.

Friday, September 30th	Tapping of the Keg
Live Music By: Tommy Foster (Main Stage)	5:00 – 7:30pm
Shuttle service begins	6:00pm
Ceremonial tapping of the keg	7:00pm
Live Music By: Smoke’n Inside (Main Stage)	7:30pm -11:00pm
Live Music By: Charlie Edgerton (Apfelwein Luge Lounge)	8:00pm – 10:30pm
Last shuttle departs	11:00pm

Saturday, October 1st
Shuttle service begins	4:00pm
Volksmarch	3:00pm – 4:00pm
Hansel & Gretel Kids Trail	3:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: Ein Prosit (Main Stage)	3:30pm – 6:30pm
Beer Tasting Trail	5:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: Bettie Paige (Lokal Biergarten)	5:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: Janey B & The HouseRockers (Apfelwein Biergarten	5:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: The Carl Webb Band (Wald Biergarten)	5:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: Whoopee Kat (Tal Biergarten)	5:00pm – 9:00pm
Live Music By: Westside Soul Surfers (Main Stage)	7:00pm – 11:00pm
Last shuttle departs	11:30pm

Reebok Ragnar Relay Michigan
September 30 – October 1
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Reebok Ragnar Relay Michigan is a magical combination of fall colors, sugar sand beaches, massive dunes and wild Ragnarians. Teams of 12 or 6 will start the 200-ish mile relay in beautiful Muskegon County where runners will speed past historic ships and lighthouses with a van of teammates cheering them along each leg of the course. Teams make their way past apple orchards, cherry blossoms and rolling hills painted in vibrant autumn hues. As the sun sets, runners continue their relay through the night as a starlit sky and bouncing line of headlamps brighten the way. Gulps of crisp October air propel runners on their final miles to the finish line in Traverse City. A Ragnar wouldn’t be complete without a finish line party, hunky finisher medal and stories to tell for years to come. Find out what it means to find your #innerWILD and mark your running calendar for September 30- October 1. For more information, visit www.runragnar.com.

11th Annual Trinkets & Treasures
September 30 – October 1
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Friday and Saturday, September 30 and October 1, come to the Folkert Community HUB for the 11th Annual Trinkets & Treasures indoor yard sale and baked goods sale! This fundraiser, held by the Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce, benefits the Father Jack Foundation, Flyin’ Heroes and Tempting Tables. Friday hours are 9:00am-5:00pm and Saturday hours are 9:00am-3:00pm. For more information, call JoAnne at 231-955-0789 or Kathy at 231-903-2713.

West Michigan Symphony Presents: Heroes and Villains
September 30 @ 7:30 pm
Friday, September 30 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater as the West Michigan Symphony presents “Heroes and Villains” with conductor Scott Speck. Celebrate the dark side and the bright side of storytelling via the incredible soundtracks that set the scene for a host of unforgettable movie characters. Single ticket prices are $23-$54. Student tickets are $10. Call (231) 332-4103 for more information.

Free Tours of the Hackley & Hume Site for Muskegon County Residents
October Weekends
Tours of the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons are free for Muskegon County residents on weekends during the month of October. Saturday hours are 10:00am-4:00pm, Sunday hours are 1:00-4:00pm. For more information, call 231-722-7578.

Pizza Pockets and Calzones with Chef Char
October 1 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
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Saturday, October 1^st – Kid’s Cooking Class: Pizza Pockets and Calzones with Chef Char 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. We will make our own dough and marinara sauce in the class before creating delicious double-crusted, pizza-style healthy snacks. Roll out the dough, then add your choice of your favorite pizza toppings and love before sealing, baking and taking home. Ages 7-13. Cost $25.

Artist De-Stash Sale
October 1 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Local area artists are cleaning out their homes and studios of art supplies that are no longer needed. Red Lotus Gallery invites you to view and purchase a great variety supplies at discount prices during their “Artist De-Stash” sale, Saturday, October 1 from 10:00am-4:00pm. For more information, visit www.muskegonca.org.

Lumber Barons’ Ball: Victorian Carnivale
October 1 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
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This year’s Lumber Barons’ Ball will be held Saturday, October 1 at Watermark 920. Save the date for an exceptional evening of entertainment! Imagine a night under the Big Top in Muskegon in the early 1900s with interactive entertainment, music, and more. The night includes a live and silent auction, Five Fantastic Food Stations and a cash bar. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
October 1 @ 7:15 pm
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Saturday, October 1 at 7:15pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena as the Muskegon Lumberjacks take on the USNTDP U-18! The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud members of the United States Hockey League, the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and the leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. The Lumberjacks’organization prides itself on developing not just premier hockey talent, but also exceptional young men outside the arena of sports. For more information, visit www.muskegonlumberjacks.com.

Rockin’ Road to Dublin
October 2 @ 7:30 pm
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October 2 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the “Rockin’ Road to Dublin!” Experience the new generation of Irish music & dance. Inspired by epic spectacles like Riverdance, RRTD’s renowned team of tour professionals is reviving the classic art form to create a new Irish show with a contemporary feel and a broader appeal. Choreographer and lead male Scott Doherty (Riverdance & Lord of the Dance) has teamed up with veteran Celtic rocker Chris Smith to produce an exciting fusion of music, movement and culture that has never been done before. RRTD is a breathtaking display of classic Irish tunes accented by rock ‘n’ roll riffs, electrifying dancers and a dynamic light show. Enjoy the thrilling sights and sounds as daring performers execute rapid-fire leaps, twirls and footwork, and nimble fiddlers square off with driving electric guitar chords and pulse-pounding drum beats.

Fans say, “Rockin’ Road to Dublin not only combines Riverdance and Lord of the Dance perfectly, but actually surpasses them!”

Tickets are $30, $35 and $45. For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org.

Land Recording Fees to Change

Land Recording Fees to Change to “Flat Fee” for all Documents

Beginning October 1, 2016, recording fees for all documents recorded in the Register of Deeds office will be “flat fee” of $30 per document. Currently, the cost of recording documents is based upon a $14 charge for the initial page, and $3 for every subsequent page.

This legislative change was supported by the Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds and the Michigan Land Title Association, in response to new consumer protection regulations instituted by the federal government in late 2015. The new regulations create a mandatory extension of the closing date for properties if the closing documents are rejected by the Register of Deeds Office, which delays the closing process for consumers. Under the current cost structure, one of the most common reasons for rejection of a document is inaccurate payment due to miscalculation of the number of pages contained in a document. The Register of Deeds is required to return the documents until the proper fees are met.

“With new guidelines instituted by the federal government, it became clear that creating a flat fee for all documents would be in the best interest of our homeowners and all of the entities that do business with the Register of Deeds Office,” said County Clerk/Register Justin Roebuck. “Having a predictable flat fee will create a more smooth land title closing process by assuring that the right payments are submitted the first time. This only stands to benefit our residents, businesses and the economy as a whole.”

The $30 flat fee amount is based upon a statewide average of the fees currently assessed to record documents under the existing “per page” fee structure.

Statewide Giving Effort at Secretary of State Offices

Secretary of State offices to host Harvest Gathering food drive collection sites

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today encouraged residents to donate nonperishable food at Secretary of State offices statewide as part of the 26th Annual Michigan Harvest Gathering food drive.

“All it takes to help your neighbor is a can of soup or a jar of peanut butter,” Johnson said. “Just bring these items to an area Secretary of State office. With that seemingly small gesture you are helping a local family to put food on their table when they otherwise might have gone hungry.”

Johnson thanked Secretary of State staff for making the food drive so successful every year. Since 2011, Secretary of State offices have collected almost 30 tons of food donations. The Secretary of State portion of the Harvest Gathering campaign runs through Nov. 23.

“The collaboration between Secretary of State offices in Michigan and the Michigan Harvest Gathering has provided valuable outreach to local communities in all 83 counties,” said Phillip Knight, executive director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan. “The Michigan Harvest Gathering is successful because of partnerships dedicated to making Michigan a food secure state.”

In Michigan, 16 percent of households struggle to put food on the table and 21 percent of children don’t know where their next meal will come from, according to the Food Bank Council of Michigan. The organization coordinates the program, which supplies the state’s regional food banks through donations of food and money. The regional food banks serve food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters in every Michigan county.

In 2015, the entire Michigan Harvest Gathering campaign collected 300,000 pounds of food and more than $381,000. This year, the campaign’s goal is to collect enough food and funds for two million meals.

Nonperishable food items with a valid expiration date can be dropped off at any Secretary of State office.

Food items especially needed include canned meats, dry beans, soups, beef stew, pasta products, peanut butter and tuna. Other items include baby food or formula, diapers, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. The Food Bank requests donors avoid items in glass, as they often break in transit. Financial donations may be made online at www.feedmichigan.org.

For more about the Secretary of State’s Office:
To find Secretary of State office locations and services, visit www.michigan.gov/sos. Sign up for the official Secretary of State Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/michsos and Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/michigansos. Online services are available at www.expresssos.com.

Customers may call the Department of State Information Center to speak to a customer-service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).

Muskegon STAR! Certification Training

Join the 500+ Muskegon STARS! The Muskegon STAR! Program provides the tools to excel at customer interaction and enhance the overall experience for tourists, friends and fellow employees.

Thursday, October 20, 2016 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
West Michigan Works!
316 Morris Avenue, Suite 300
Muskegon, MI 49440
West Michigan Works Office is located inside Terrace Plaza

Cost: $25 per person

Find out more at: http://web.muskegon.org/events/October-20-Muskegon-STAR!-Certification-Training-5965/details