Author Archives: editor

Tom Hickman Announced as Michigan’s 2015 Big Brother of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore Honored for Dedication to Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Mentorship Program

Muskegon, MI, April 8, 2015 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore is proud to announce that local mentor Tom Hickman has been named Michigan’s 2015 Big Brother of the Year. Each year, mentors from across the state are nominated by local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies for their commitment to changing the lives of children facing adversity – for the better, forever. Hickman has been a Big Brother for 5 years and has dedicated countless hours to helping his Little reach his fullest potential.

Tom & Jake

“Jake knew that he wanted a positive male role model in his life, so he took the initiative after hearing a presentation at school to go to his teacher and get the agency contact information himself. That shows how badly these young men want mentors in their lives” stated Big Tom Hickman in a recent letter to the agency. “Our relationship has developed over the last five years we’ve been together. The Big Brothers Big Sisters program says you should get together at least two times a month. Jake said you cannot develop a relationship with only two meetings a month, so we meet once a week or more. If Jake is involved in any activity I enjoy being present. We will spend day-long activities (athletics, movies, parks, library) but a great deal of the time is spent just talking for a couple of hours about what he and I have done that week, and what will be going on the following week. At other times he will call and suggest he wants to speak to me about a concern.”

Jake’s mother Ann states “Jake has come a long way since 2010. Not only has he strived to be the best student, making honor roll all of last year, he puts his all into sports, his teammates, his friendships and in life itself. He has helped others achieve goals, mentoring another young friend, encouraging him to get into sports and he’s been playing ever since. I’m very proud of my son and all of his accomplishments.”

“All of our Bigs are special people, but these statewide Bigs of the Year go above and beyond to help enrich the lives of our youth,” said Pam Iorio, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “We thank Tom Hickman for his countless hours and his utmost passion and dedication to Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

This annual recognition is not only a part of the national Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan competition, and Mr. Hickman will also be considered as one of two Bigs to be honored at the national Big Brothers Big Sisters of America National Big Brother of the Year Award, which will be announced at the 2015 National Conference June 2 – 3, 2015, sponsored by Comcast NBCUniversal. Mr. Hickman’s service to his Little is also under consideration for the 2015 Governor’s Service Awards to be announced by Governor Rick Snyder’s office in June 2015.

Members of the media and area legislators, staff and members of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore Board of Directors are invited to honor Big Tom Hickman for receiving the 2015 Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Alliance award at the agency located at 4265 Grand Haven Road, Suite #201, Muskegon MI 49441 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2015.

Letter to the Editor: Choose Life License Plates

Choose Life License Plates could be on their way to Michigan

On March 5, the Michigan Senate Transportation Committee reported SB 84 out of committee by a vote of 4‑1. If passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor, SB 84 would authorize a Choose Life fundraising license plate. The license plate would raise funds for organizations that submit grant proposals for specific abortion prevention projects. The bill stipulates that the funds will be used to promote alternatives to abortion, including adoption, provide practical support to pregnant women, and conduct outreach to at‑risk populations regarding positive pregnancy options.

Choose Life license plates are a common way states allow charities to help women experiencing an unplanned pregnancies. More than 25 states have passed Choose Life license plate legislation including Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Michigan has allowed a wide variety of special causes to raise funds using specialty plates including Michigan’s 15 state-supported universities, the Boy Scouts of America, breast cancer awareness, lighthouse preservation, veterans’ memorial, water quality, wildlife habitat, and disaster relief through the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.

If the legislation passes, the money would be used to support pregnant women and promote alternatives to abortion. The legislation directs that “money disbursed to the Choose Life Michigan Fund under this section shall be distributed to eligible nonprofit organizations that expend money on projects that promote alternatives to abortion.” Eligible non-profits include “crisis pregnancy centers, homes for pregnant women, and other organizations that provide practical support to pregnant women, provide practical outreach to at‑risk populations, and promote life‑saving programs and projects as alternatives to abortion.”

Unfortunately, pro-abortion groups are already lying about this legislation. Planned Parenthood, the leading abortion provider in the United States, opposes this legislation and in an e-mail to supporters, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan falsely claimed “tax dollars” would be used to administer the funds from the Choose Life license plates. This claim is false. The proceeds from the sale of specialty license plates (they cost an additional $35 per year) fund the administration costs and the grants to eligible non-profits.

On the other hand, Planned Parenthood receives more than $500 million a year in government funding.

Those in favor of legal abortion often claim they are not in favor of abortion but the choice to have an abortion. Only organizations that are pro-abortion would be opposed to prolife people using their own money to buy license plates which help fund efforts to help women in unplanned pregnancies choose life. None of the funds or distribution of funds can legally prevent a woman from obtaining an abortion.

To learn more about Choose Life license plates in Michigan, visit www .RTL.org.

The Mercy Health Seaway Run

MUSKEGON — March 30, 2015 — The Mercy Health Seaway Run is one of Michigan’s most scenic and most popular runs. With courses that take advantage of the beautiful shorelines of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, it has been a favorite of runners from across Michigan and beyond for over three decades. With its fun, family-friendly atmosphere, the Mercy Health Seaway Run celebrates healthy living and a healthy community with events for all ages and abilities – in 2014, 3,450 participants ran or walked! For 2015, the new 5K course (with fewer turns) is again in the historic Nims neighborhood, with both the 5K Run and Community Walk winding through streets of historic homes and shady trees, finishing with views of Muskegon Lake. The Lake Michigan Half Marathon is now an established part of the Mercy Health Seaway Run line up of events, with a unique name and logo for a run that celebrates the entire Lake Michigan region.

Participants in all events can register online quickly and easily at www.seawayrun.com. For those interested in training with a group, the YMCA’s annual 10 week training class begins on April 14, with groups for all levels of runners. Contact the YMCA at 231-722-9322 to sign up.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 04/06/15 – 04/13/15

04/06/2015 – 04/11/15 Spring Break Workshop: Theatre Survival Skills
‎This Theatre Survival Skills course combines the instruction of playwriting, monologue performance, stage manager skills, creating deep emotions on stage, basic makeup skills (for guys and girls,) improvisation, a variety of accents, and projecting your stage voice with volume and articulation all into one week, April 6-11 at the Howmet Playhouse. Classes are 10:00am-Noon for grades 6-8 and 1:00pm-3:00pm for grades 3-5. Class fee is $50. Call the Nuveen Center at 231-894-2787 to register.

04/06/2015 – 04/10/15 Spring Break Art Camp
Kids ages 7-11 are invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Spring Break Art Camp with instructor Ellen Sprouls, Monday–Friday, April 6–10 from 9:00am–noon. The cost per day is $20 or $17 for members. The cost for the week is $75 or $65 members. Get those kids moving and creating (and out of the house!). Each day, students will explore different mediums through various projects based on exhibitions that are on view in the Museum. Come for the week or drop-in for the day. To register, call one week in advance at 231-720-2571.

Daily Themes
Monday: Eat (Still Life)
Tuesday: Dance (Belinda the Ballerina)
Wednesday: Paint (Expressions 2015)
Thursday: Build (The Art of the Brick)
Friday: Write (Permanent Collection)

04/06/2015 – WWII Lecture Series: And the Skies Rained Blood
The 2015 WWII Lecture Series is finally here! April 6 at 6:00pm, it’s And the Skies Rained Blood: The Allied Bombing Campaign Over Nazi Germany, presented by Dr. Fred Johnson, Associate Professor of History, Hope College. Cost is $5.00 per person or FREE with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

04/06/2015 – Hackley Handicrafts
‎Learn a new craft with Nancy Hartman! This month will be scrapbooking at Hackley Library. This is a FREE event and open to the public. Hope to see you there from 6:00pm-7:00pm. www.hackleylibrary.org

04/07/2015 & 04/09/15 Zentangles for Tweens and Teens
Tuesday & Thursday, April 7 & 9 from 10:00am–noon, kids 8 to 14 can come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Zentangles for tweens and teens” with instructor Marjorie Goosen, Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT). The cost is $40 or $35 for members, which includes materials. Zentagling is a great way to express yourself, with no art training or background required to make beautiful, fun, and funky images. Learn simple, repetitive strokes to make exciting, unique, fresh drawings using simple tools. Prepare to be amazed with your success. To register, call 231-720-2571 by March 31.

04/07/2015 – White Lake Classical Series
‎You’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop Tuesday, April 7 for the White lake Classical series featuring a performance by Haijin Choi and Adam Liebert. Dinner begins at 6:15pm and is only $17. Music begins at 7:00pm and there is a $5 cover. For more information or to make reservations, call 231-894-5333.

04/08/2015 – 04/23/15 33rd Muskegon County Student Art show
‎”Expressions”, the annual Muskegon County student art exhibition is organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art in partnership with the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District. The show opens March 25 and will run through April 23. “Expressions” showcases the artistic talents of Muskegon County K-12 students, featuring two and three dimensional artworks in a variety of media. For more information, call 231-720-2570.

04/09/2015 & 04/12/15 Braveheart Raptor Rehabilitation Center Open House
Braveheart Raptor Rehabilitation Center invites you to visit them from 1:00pm-4:00pm to learn all about the facility, the birds, and what they do. Guests will also get to see the permanent resident birds, and touch real artifacts! In addition to the free handouts about preserving the environment for raptors and other conservation information, you can purchase T-shirts, raptor bookmarks, and notecards with photos of their ambassador birds. For more information, call 231-821-9125 or check them out on Facebook!

04/09/2015 – FREE Admission Family Fun Nights at the MMA
‎Thursdays, April 9 and 16 from 5:00–8:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for FREE Admission Family Fun Nights! See The Art of the Brick and create your own sculpture in the interactive LEGO building area. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

04/10/2015 – Superhero Academy
‎Friday, April 10th at 10:30am, come to Walker Memorial Library for the “Superhero Academy”! Do you have what it takes to be a superhero? Join them for some superhero crafts, books, boot camp and more! For families with children ages 3-10. Please call the library to register at 231-744-6080.

04/10/2015 – Alley Door: West Side Soul Surfers
The Alley Door Club is located on the 3rd floor of the Hilt Building in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. Doors open at 6 PM. West Side Soul Surfers will play 7 PM – 10 PM Cash bar available. Valid I.D. required. Tickets $7 in advance at the Frauenthal Box Office. 4-top $55.00* price includes 4 admission tickets 8-top $80.00* price includes 8 admission tickets Monday – Friday 11 AM – 5:30 PM. For more information call 231-727-8001 Tickets also available at the (door) from the Frauenthal Box Office.

04/10/2015 – Small Paintings
‎Join us at our opening in our Red Lotus Gallery as we present petite works of art in different styles and mediums that are 12″ x 12″ or less. This display will be up for the month of April. http://muskegonca.com/Home

04/10/2015 – Dueling Pianos
‎Dueling Pianos is always a great time in Muskegon. This upcoming event is Friday, April 10 from 7:00pm- midnight at the Watermark 920. Tickets are $12.00 in advance and $15.00 day of the show. Doors open at 7:00pm. The show begins at 8:00pm!

04/11/2015 – Frederick Douglas: From Slavery to Statesman for His People
You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the DVD presentation, Frederick Douglas: From Slavery to Statesman for His People, Saturday, April 11 at 3:00pm. For more information, call 231-739-9500.

04/12/2015 – Howl N Blues
‎Howl N Blues” is a winter, six concert, blues party series held the 2nd Sunday of each month, November 2014 through April 2015 at the Watermark 920. There’ll be a cash bar, food, 50/50 raffles, dancing, and good times guaranteed! There’ll also be printed information about the plight of the shelter animals, the importance of spaying and neutering, adoptable dog pictures etc. All shows will benefit PoundBuddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center. Doors open at 1:00pm with music from 2:00-6:30pm. April 12 it’s the ALL-STAR FINALE with the Howlin’ Blues Band. Find out more at www.watermarkcenter.com.

04/13/2015 – Generational Walking Challenge: Weekly Stroll
Muskegon State Park is hosting a Generational Walking Challenge this spring beginning April 13. This weekly walk happens Mondays at 5:00pm at the Snug Harbor Day Use Area. At the end of 8 weeks, on May 29, participants can turn in their activity tracking form for a chance to win prizes. The grand prize for the family or group that logs the most minutes of activity is a 2-night stay at Muskegon State Park’s Yurt (limit 7 people per team).

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park will host a completion celebration on Friday, May 29 at 5:00pm. Register today for Muskegon County’s Generational Walking Challenge with your family and friends by emailing bucke1@michigan.gov. This program is funded by MRPA’s Active Living Grant, in partnership with the Michigan DNR. Other partners include the Health Project, EcoTrek Fitness and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. A Recreation Passport is required for entry into all Michigan state parks and recreation areas.

04/13/2015 – Checkers Morton Jazz Performance
‎April is Jazz month and to celebrate we have Checkers Morton playing at Hackley Public Library. If you come to hear Checkers Morton you may be a different person when you leave. What you will hear is a band of friends who have played together under this moniker for 40 years. You will hear music from the heart and soul – inspired by the flow of energy that originates at our Source. Original compositions by all of the members of the band, ranging from Dan’s light hearted ‘Padge’ to Gus’ deeply inspiring ‘Little Raga’. You will hear this amazing music performed on wood, reeds, brass, ivory and primal drums. Checkers Morton is Dave Collee on bass, Gus VanStee on keys, Jim Beegle on trumpet, flueglehorn, congas and flute, Dan Giacobassi on saxes, flute and shakuhachi and Tim Froncek on the drums. Checkers Morton came together in the early autumn of 1972 on the shores of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven, Michigan. The power of the lake and the power of Free Music forged a bond that is still strong today. Though decades and members have come and gone, those of us who remain still get together to honor that Muse which brings us such beauty and deep meditation … Free Music … Checkers Morton. For more information see their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CheckersMorton/timeline

Ongoing Events:

Collector’s Corner: Beatles Memorabilia
‎Beatles Memorabilia is the topic of the display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Featured are album covers from The Fab Four, fan club cards, a collectible plate, a Beatles themed Trivial Pursuit Game, beach towel and more. Figures of the four musicians and a yellow submarine are also included in William Stidham Sr.’s collection. The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Armchair Archeology
‎”Armchair Archaeology: From Hobby to History” is on display at the Lakeshore Museum Center! The exhibit explores early archaeology practices and philosophies that would be considered controversial today and showcases the local men who did it right. The exhibit features ten Muskegon residents from the late 1800s to early 1940s who were working in the area to learn about who and what was living here before them. Artifacts on display from the local digs include pottery shards, arrowheads, projectile points, and tools. Visitors will have an opportunity to take a seat and spend some time reading books and journal articles written by and about the men featured in the exhibit. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Reading by Any Means Necessary
You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm. The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights. Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Dawn of the Space Age
See space travel from the beginning with a NEW program at the Carr-Fles Planetarium! From the launch of Sputnik to the future of Mars exploration, “Dawn of the Space Age” is an incredibly accurate reconstruction that gives you the chance to become a first-hand observer, and concludes with a brief planetarium dome demonstration of the current night sky. No reservations are needed for this FREE show on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. (doors open by 6:45), which runs April 7-23 and May 19-June 11. The planetarium is in room 135 on the main campus 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.

Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young
‎Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young is an exhibition of original book illustrations by artist Amy Young at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Big-footed ballerinas, dogs on boats, and mud fairies are just a few of the characters that Amy Young has brought to life through her stories and bright, colorful book illustrations. This exhibition features original artwork she created for the popular children’s book Belinda the Ballerina and other books that Young has written and illustrated. The exhibition will be on display through April 26, 2015. For more information, call 231-720-2574.

The Art of the Brick®
‎Beginning February 19, the Muskegon Museum of Art will host The Art of the Brick®, an exhibition featuring large-scale sculptures created out of iconic LEGO® bricks by New York based artist Nathan Sawaya. The exhibition has proved to be very popular with audiences as it has toured the globe. “This year alone, we’ve visited Ireland, South Africa, and Amsterdam,” said Sawaya. “We are thrilled to be bringing this collection to Muskegon.” The Art of the Brick will be on view at the Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave from February 19 through May 3. The public is invited to attend an opening reception on Thursday, February 19, from 5:30 to 7:00pm. Light refreshments will be served at the family-friendly event, which will be free and open to the public. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

Next Crop and Make N’ Take

Next Crop and Make N Take:

APRIL 11

Friday Crop is from 5:30 to 11:30, $10 per person, we will order pizza.

Saturday Crop is from 10am-10pm, $15 plus a snack and drink to share. I will provide a mid day meal and a dessert.

Card Make N Takes will be from 10am-2pm on Saturday.

RSVP with payment before we run out of room! Mail to 3100 Rosebush Ct Muskegon 49444

Jeanie Medendorp
Perfect Prints Photography
Muskegon MI 49444
231-286-2857

www.scrapbook101.org

Harbor Hospice Announces New Business Manager

Harbor Hospice is proud to announce and welcome Stacy Mellema as its new Business Manager. Ms. Mellema brings with her 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. Ms. Mellema fills the position previously held by Tim Grunwald who left to become the CEO/President of the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of Michigan.

Ms. Mellema comes to us from Rehmann (formerly Pridnia LaPres, PLLC) where she served as Senior Manager for 12 years. Ms. Mellema is a CPA and holds an Accounting degree from Central Michigan University. She has extensive experience in auditing non-profit organizations and has also contributed as a volunteer to a number of area agencies including Muskegon Civic Theatre, Girls on the Run, Women Who Care and United Way of the Lakeshore.

“Stacy is a wonderful addition to the Harbor Hospice leadership team”, says Mary Anne Gorman, executive director. “We are so pleased that she has accepted this position as we know that she is dedicated to our mission of providing excellent end of life care as a non-profit, community based hospice.”

For more information on our services contact Harbor Hospice at 231.728.3442 or 800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.

Ask Dr. Universe – What if Gravity Pulled Up?

Dear Dr. Universe: What if gravity pulled up, instead of down? -Kyle, Cedar Lake, IN

Our universe would look so different, Kyle. You might not recognize it even if you could be here to see it. Unfortunately, there probably wouldn’t be a whole lot to see.

I learned about this from Washington State University professor and physicist Matthew McCluskey, who studies the material world. He explained how gravity pulls together dust, gas, and little particles floating around space to make massive clumps of matter that form stars and planets.

For example: planet Earth. Every particle in the Earth is pulling on you at this very moment–every single one.

You can jump really high despite that. McCluskey said this is because gravity is a wimpy force, an oddball compared to other forces of nature. Even a weak force can still add up to pull us toward the Earth’s center and keep us grounded.

If gravity pulled us up toward the sky, it would mean that gravity repelled. It would push objects away from each other.

Watching this happen from out in space, you could see everything not bolted down to Earth–buildings, desks, homework, cats–start to lift off and drift into space. Then, you could see the surface of the earth start to fall away. He thinks your question sounds like a good idea for a science fiction story.

There isn’t any place with zero gravity, but when you’re falling it feels as if there is no gravity. As you may already know, or as any astronaut can tell you, you can live without gravity. Gravity isn’t what keeps our guts together.

“In everyday physics, the most important forces besides gravity are electricity and magnetism,” McCluskey said. “Atoms are bound together into molecules via the electric force. So, that’s what keeps ordinary-sized objects like humans together.”

If gravity reversed on the Sun, McCluskey said he’d be scared because it is the only thing keeping the sun together. Nuclear fusion, inside the sun, pushes outward. Without gravity, the sun would explode.

In fact, gravity from the Sun is pulling on all the planets. The Sun has a bigger mass so it’s exerting the strongest gravitational pull in the solar system. Thankfully, our planet is also moving sideways so it won’t fall into the Sun.

McCluskey doesn’t believe gravity will ever reverse, though. Gravity has behaved the same way for billions of years.

And just imagine a universe where gravity was always pushing things away. There wouldn’t be a natural world to ask questions about, or inquisitive people like you to ask them. Matter would never clump together to form planets or stars. It would be a universe of dust.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Got a question? Ask Dr. Universe! Send an e-mail to Washington State University’s resident cat-scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at askdruniverse.com.

Harbor Hospice is Now Accepting Applications For Camp Courage 2015

Harbor Hospice has been offering Camp Courage for 22 years as a way to help children and their families after the death of a loved one. Loss is difficult at any age and it can be even harder for children who have not yet developed the emotional tools necessary to help them work through grief. Children react to grief in a variety of ways. Some reactions can be very destructive, such as acting out or fighting, missing school, decreased self-esteem, and/or emotional regression or feelings of isolation.

Harbor Hospice staff and trained volunteers show children that they are not alone in their grief and that feeling sad is a normal part of losing a loved one. Children learn effective coping techniques to help them journey through grief in healthy ways. Children participate in all of the typical camping activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking and campfires, along with specialized activities designed to address how to handle grief.

Camp Courage, a sleep-away camping experience for children ages 6-12, is held at Pioneer Trails on Big Blue Lake in Muskegon County beginning Friday, June 26, 2015 at 10:00 am through Sunday, June 28, 2015 at 2:00 pm. Application deadline is May 28, 2015. There is a $10 registration fee; however, there are no additional charges for camp. For more information or to register, contact Stephanie Weesies or Amy Cunningham at 231.728.3442 or 800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.

Muskegon County Public Survey Available

Muskegon County now has the public survey available on the County website and are hoping to have the general public complete it, giving us insight into how they feel about the County’s website. Here is a link to it. Please share it.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CountyWebsite

To Feed or Not to Feed?

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

During the winter I like to feed the birds. I have a very simple arrangement for this: pouring a mix of seeds on a flat railing outside my dining room window. I regularly attract several species of small birds to the seed.

Buster Brown, my mutt from the pound, has a role to play in the bird feeding. It’s his job to make the squirrels wary of coming up to the railing and stealing the seed. Buster has a dog-door, so he always has access to the area in question, and although he has never in his life caught a squirrel, he is glad to give chase. (Buster agrees with my mother that squirrels are really just rats with furry tails.)

Buster and I are really a team when it comes to squirrels. When I see one out the window on the railing, I call “Buster Brown, squirrel, squirrel!” My faithful dog then charges out the dog-door, putting him about 4 feet from the rodent. The chase is on, often going across the yard to where the squirrel can climb a tree where it scolds Buster to its heart’s content.

But am I really doing a favor to the birds by feeding them each winter? That question was the subject of a recent blog post by Joe Smith published by The Nature Conservancy. It turns out there’s a bit of scientific research on the matter.

Common sense suggests feeding birds during the tough, cold months helps them survive the most challenging of seasons. Our feathered friends need food energy to keep themselves warm, and winter limits the availability of food. Some scientific studies do agree with common sense: more birds survive the winter when they are fed than otherwise.

The Nature Conservancy blog post referenced a study in the upper Midwest of black-capped chickadees. Those fed by people had a higher survival rate over the winter (69 percent) versus those that weren’t fed (only 37 percent survived).

But for some birds in given locales, feeding may be, paradoxically, detrimental. Researchers in Great Britain discovered that certain fed birds laid fewer eggs the following spring and summer than did unfed birds. And the fledglings of the fed birds were less likely to survive than the offspring of unfed birds.

It’s not abundantly clear why fed birds would have less success with their offspring than unfed ones. It may be that store-bought bird seed isn’t really a balanced diet for birds compared to what Mother Nature provides, and there may be other factors, too.

Still, many studies suggest feeding the birds helps them out in tough times. That’s why, with the help of Buster to fend off the squirrels, I’ll continue to feed birds in my backyard.

Dr. E. Kirsten Peters, a native of the rural Northwest, was trained as a geologist at Princeton and Harvard. This column is a service of the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences at Washington State University.

April 2015 Blood Drive

April 2015 Blood Drive
The American Red Cross

April 12
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
406 E. Savidge
Spring Lake, MI
8:00am-1:45pm

April 27
Fruitport High School
357 N 6th St
8:30am-2:15pm

April 29
Fruitport Eagles
3354 S. Dangl
12:30pm-6:15pm

For Mercy Health’s Calendar of Events, visit www.MercyHealthMuskegon.com

Dive into Michigan’s Maritime Past

Click for larger view

Attend the Overbrook Theater on April 18, 2015 for the presentation of STORM, a video documentary about storms on the Great Lakes and resulting ship wrecks with all the mystery and theories surrounding their demise. Ric Mixter, the videographer and researcher who created the film will narrate the stories shown in video and photograph. Accompanied by musicians who sing nautical ballads, the evening will be one of nautical history and entertainment. Having personally seen and listened to the program last September, this will be rare opportunity for residents of West Michigan to view underwater footage and listen to the stories that accompany the nautical environment we experience daily.

Of special note will be a focus on ships that have sunk during storms near Muskegon, Whitehall, Grand Haven and Pentwater.

USS Silversides Submarine Museum Presents
STORM
April 18th, 2015
Overbrook Theatre
Muskegon Community College
Muskegon’s maritime history includes building a lightship that sailed into the 1913 Storm. Lifesavers here saved countless lives including those on the Cort & Salvour. Hear from those who survived the gales-including a tribute to the 70th anniversary of the 1940 Armistice Day Storm-as RIC MIXTER and DAN HALL chronicle this history through Rare interviews, Underwater Video, Spellbinding Storytelling and Unforgettable Songs.

Tickets can be purchased at the Silversides Museum, 231-755-1230 or
Muskegon Community College 231-777-0324
$20 GENERAL ADMISSION
$15 STUDENT/MUSEUM MEMBER
SHOWTIME 7 PM

ONLY ONE SHOWING AND SEATS ARE LIMITED

Harbor Hospice in the “We Honor Veterans” Program

Harbor Hospice reaches Level IV in the “We Honor Veterans” Program, ensuring QUALITY care for Veterans in End-of-Life Care.

HarborHospice, serving Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, Newaygo, and North Ottawa counties, is proud to announce that they have achieved the highest partnership level in the We Honor Veterans” National Program. Designed to improve the end of life care of veterans in hospice, the program was instituted locally at Harbor Hospice in 2011.

“Our staff is specially trained to recognize the unique needs of our Veterans who are facing a life-limiting illness, particularly where those needs relate to their military service” says Laurie Hickman, clinical manager. “We are also able to offer support to their families and assistance with locating resources and benefits in the VA system and to support them in their grief after the death of their loved one”.

A vibrant component of the We Honor Veterans program at Harbor Hospice is the Veteran Pinning ceremonies that recognize and thank individual veterans for their service to our country. Hospice volunteers, including area veterans, have pinned 196 veteran patients. Paula Poel, volunteer coordinator, arranges the pinning ceremonies and has witnessed firsthand the gratitude of the veterans and their families. She says “It’s so important that we acknowledge the service of these brave men and women…for some it’s literally the first time they’ve been thanked. We Honor Veterans ensures that we are treating our veteran patients with the dignity that they deserve”.

For more information on Harbor Hospice services please call 231.728.3442 or 800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.

(NHPCO, Alexandria, VA) – It surprises many Americans to learn that 25 percent of all deaths in the US are Veterans. That’s 1,800 people a day; more than 680,000 Veterans every year. These heroic Americans deserve recognition for their military service– particularly at the end of life’s journey. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), launched We Honor Veterans, a pioneering campaign to help improve the care Veterans receive from hospice and palliative care providers. The resources of We Honor Veterans focus on respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and grateful acknowledgment, coupled with Veteran-centric education of staff caring for Veterans. To learn more about We Honor Veterans, please visit www.wehonorveterans.org.

Register Now for Muskegon’s First HERO Mud Run – May 16

(Muskegon, MI) – The HERO Mud Run is coming to the Muskegon County Fairgrounds on May 16, 2015. The first course of its kind in the area, the HERO Mud Run introduces a three, six or eight mile run, equipped with 25 plus unique, military-style obstacles.

Designed to challenge the competitor both physically and mentally, the course is designed to incorporate obstacles and distances for every level including: Rope balance challenge, barrel swim, water tunnel, 16’ quarter pipe, tire wall, motocross track, mud/fire/smoke, ice bath, barbed wire, and much more.

Whether a true competitor or an athlete looking to have fun, the course provides the best of both worlds. Alternative routes are available, and all athletes will receive a
t-shirt and medal. Those over 21, receive a free beer for participating. Those wishing to compete as a team (six or more) qualify for a team discount. A beer tent will also be onsite featuring local, craft beer and Budweiser products.

Event Pricing:
• Hero Discount / Nov. – March 17 / $50
• Standard Entry / March 18 – April 17 / $55
• LateEntry/April18–May14/$60
• SameDayEntry/May16/$75

* $10 mandatory insurance fee with registration.
* Same price for all race distances.

Location:
Muskegon County Fairgrounds
6621 Heights Ravenna Road
Fruitport, MI 49415

Start Times:
• Competitive heat: 8:00 am
• Other heats: 9:00 am

For more information about the HERO mud run or for volunteer details, please visit www.heromud.com. Current sponsors include Walgreens, Meijer, Mercy Health, and Access Health. Partner organizations, who will receive a portion of the proceeds, include: Flyin’ Heroes, Muskegon Jaycees and the Muskegon County Fairgrounds.

Lee A. Beaton, Eagle Scout

Lee A. Beaton obtained the rank of Eagle Scout January 25, 2015. He is a member of troop 1127, which is sponsored by the Fruitport Lions Club. His Eagle service project was cleaning out the drainage ditch and installing new drain tile at Farr Field, Fruitport.

Lee is a senior at Fruitport High School where he is a member of the National Honor Society. He will again be a counselor at Gerber Boy Scout camp this summer before attending CMU in the fall. Lee is the son of Julie Beaton and AI Beaton, both of Muskegon. Grandparents are Vicki Beaton of Muskegon and Roger and Betty Barry of Jackson/Michigan Center.

Big Brothers Big Sisters BOWLERS NEEDED

National Mentoring Agency looks to meet their goal of $50,000 in support of mentoring services.

Muskegon, MI, March 24, 2015 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore is appealing to the community to support Bowl for Kids’ Sake, the mentoring organizations largest and longest running annual fundraiser, raising money needed to carefully pair adult volunteer mentors with children who face adversity in staff-supported, long-term mentoring friendships. Studies show that the presence of an additional positive adult in the life of a child greatly increases the chances for educational success and decreases at risk behaviors.

Participants are asked to form teams of four to six bowlers that will then solicit pledges from friends, family and co-workers that will be used to support the agency’s Community Based one-to-one mentoring program. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore Bowl for Kids’ Sake committee members are working to increase bowler pledges to $30,000 this season and need your assistance to do so. Sponsor pledges are still being accepted as well. Sponsors will be honored throughout 2015, through February 2016 via a variety of methods.

Bowlers are still being accepted for the final event of the season:
Friday April 17^th @ Starlight Lanes in Grand Haven.
Bowling starts at 7pm. Register your team by calling the agency @ 231-798-1391

Bowlers are treated to 2 FREE games, shoe rental, pizza and pop in return for raising at least $75 in pledges per individual bowler. Throughout each bowling event bowlers will have opportunity to win additional prizes including Meijer and Subway gift cards and other various prizes. How do you win these great prizes? Play the agency’s version of minute to win it games, featuring, Stack Attack, Tweeze This, Marshmallow Madness, Gold Digger and many more fun games.

“Bowl for Kids’ Sake brings the entire community together in support of a positive future for our Littles,” said Cindy Timmerman, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore. “No matter how someone chooses to be involved—bowler, virtual bowler (online donor), team captain or sponsor—each person has a hand in helping to start a child on the right path. Every dollar raised through Bowl for Kids’ Sake directly funds our mentoring programs in Ottawa, Muskegon, Oceana and Mason counties and helps to maintain and sustain our mentoring relationships, increasing kids chances for becoming Caring, Confident, Competent and Contributing adults within their community.” Donor funds, such as those raised through Bowl for Kids’ Sake, enable Big Brothers Big Sisters to provide caring mentors for vulnerable children in need of an additional positive adult support.

Come out and enjoy a great time while raising donations for a great agency. Top fundraisers will be awarded one of our major prizes which include a one night stay at the Little River Casino including a $25 food voucher, also a Wine and Chocolate basket valued at over $100 and other fantastic prizes. Interested bowlers may register and solicit donations for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore bowling events at www.bbbslakeshore.org/bowl-for-kids-sake

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 03/30/15-04/06/15

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

03/30/2015 – 04/04/15 The Easter Bunny at the Lakes Mall
‎Spring is in the air, and the Easter Bunny is coming to town! Beginning Saturday, March 21, kids of all ages are invited to visit and have their photos snapped with the Bunny at The Lakes Mall in Younkers Court. The Easter Bunny will be available for visits and photos starting Saturday, March 21 through Saturday, April 4, Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:00pm. All children who visit the Easter Bunny will receive a wonderful coloring sheet with great offers from mall stores!

Visits with the Easter Bunny are always free and reservations are not required. Professional photo packages start at just $22 and include a FREE Shutterfly gift card. For additional information, visit TheLakesMall.com.

04/03/2015 – Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
Come to the L.C. Walker Arena Friday, April 3 at 7:15pm as the Muskegon Lumberjacks take on the USNTDP U-17. www.muskegonlumberjacks.com

04/04/2015 – Pancake Breakfast & Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 4 at Calvin Church, (973 W. Norton) from 8:30am-10:00am, you can enjoy a pancake breakfast (donations accepted). There will be an egg hunt for ages up to 11 years. Both events are open to the public and the egg hunt is FREE! For more information, call 231-737-5207.

04/04/2015 – Easter Candy Scramble
Saturday April 4 at Delmar baseball fields in Roosevelt Park at 10:00am. This event is FREE and open to the public! The park is located at the corner of Glenside & Roosevelt Road.

04/04/2015 – Easter Egg Painting
‎Saturday, April 4 from 2:00-3:30pm, the Hackley Public Library, (316 W. Webster Ave.) is hosting an Easter Egg painting event. Please bring your own eggs, but the paints and decorations are FREE! www.hackleylibrary.org

04/04/2015 – Paul Robeson: A Champion for Human Rights
You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the DVD presentation, Paul Robeson: A Champion for Human Rights, Saturday, April 4 at 3:00pm. For more information, call 231-739-9500.

04/04/2015 – An Evening With The phoffman Trio
Last year, phoffman performed solo on acoustic guitar to a crowded house of music lovers at the Howmet Playhouse. Saturday, April 4 at 7:00pm, fellow Greensky band mates Anders Beck (dobro) and Mike Devol (bass) are set to accompany Paul on what is sure to be an acoustic adventure. If you are a fan of stripped down, hard driving, pure performance, precision stringsmanship, and next level bluegrass … this show is for you! For more information, please visit Gold Coast Entertainment’s Facebook Page and hit the like button. The proceeds from refreshment sales benefit capital improvement plans at the Howmet Playhouse. Tickets are $15 and purchased at the door or online. www.howmetplayhouse.org

04/04/2015 – Lin Rountree: Jazz on the Lake
‎An evening you will enjoy with Lin Rountree at Fricano’s Place Event Center on Saturday April 4 at 7:00pm. Purchase General Admission tickets or reserve your seating at Urban Apparel, Ken’s Anointed Hands, and The Cheese Lady. Limited number of reserved seating. Dress to Impress!

04/04/2015 – Back Alley Comedy Club: Rico Bruce Wade
Come to the Back Alley Comedy Club inside Sherman Bowling Center, Saturday, April 4 at 9:00pm for live stand-up comedy with Rico Bruce Wade, with special guest Kate Brindle! Doors open at 7:30pm. A full bar and food will be available. Tickets are only $5! Call 231-755-1258 for more information and ask for Todd or Mike.

04/05/2015 – Third Street Grille Easter Brunch
Sunday April 5 Enjoy an Easter Buffet at Third Street Grille in downtown Muskegon at 939 Third Street from 10:30am – 2:30 pm. Adults $23.95 / Kids 5-12 $9.95 and Kids 4 and under are FREE. This is held in their Embassy Ball Room. Please call 231-720-7105 to make your reservations. Chef carved prime rib, smoked ham, salads, desserts and more!

04/05/2015 – Docker’s Easter Brunch Buffet
‎Looking for an Easter dinner away from home? Docker’s Easter Brunch Buffet Sunday April 5th 11am – 2pm! Featuring their famous raw bar, prime rib carving station, family style perch & much, much more! $29.99 per adult and $15.99 for kids! Mimosas, Bloody Marys & full bar start at noon! Reservations only – please call 231-288-6300 to book your table today!! 3505 Marina View Point Muskegon, MI 49441.

04/05/2015 – Bella Maria’s 1st Annual Easter Brunch Buffet
‎Sunday April 5^th at Bella Maria’s event center, (513 W. Pontaluna Rd.) relax with family & friends and enjoy the culinary delights of Bella Maria’s! Adults $23.95, ages 8-12 $14.95, ages 4-7 are 7.95 and 3 and under are FREE. Make your reservations to dine from 11:00am -3:00pm 231-563-6914.

Daily Themes
Monday: Eat (Still Life)
Tuesday: Dance (Belinda the Ballerina)
Wednesday: Paint (Expressions 2015)
Thursday: Build (The Art of the Brick)
Friday: Write (Permanent Collection)

Ongoing Events:

Armchair Archeology: From Hobby to History
‎”Armchair Archaeology: From Hobby to History” is on display at the Lakeshore Museum Center! The exhibit explores early archaeology practices and philosophies that would be considered controversial today and showcases the local men who did it right. The exhibit features ten Muskegon residents from the late 1800s to early 1940s who were working in the area to learn about who and what was living here before them. Artifacts on display from the local digs include pottery shards, arrowheads, projectile points, and tools. Visitors will have an opportunity to take a seat and spend some time reading books and journal articles written by and about the men featured in the exhibit. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit
‎African Americans have always proudly served in the United States Military beginning with Crispus Attucks who became the first casualty of the American Revolution when he was shot and killed in what became known as the Boston Massacre. Since then, their accomplishments have been many and great. The USS Silversides Submarine Museum is proud to tell the tale of the brave African Americans who served their country proudly during World War II, especially those from our own Muskegon Community, Dr. Robert Garrison and Denzal Harvey. Come learn about the achievements and the hardships endured by these wonderful heroes of American WWII history, March 4 – April 4, 2015 at the Silversides Submarine Museum. There will be an opening reception March 4 at 6:00pm. The cost is $5 or free with membership. For more information, call (231) 755-1230.

Reading by Any Means Necessary
‎You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm. The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights. Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

‘Dynamic Earth’ Planetarium Viewing
‎”Dynamic Earth: Exploring Earth’s Climate Engine” is a NEW, 30-minute planetarium program that will have you riding on swirling ocean currents, diving into the heart of a hurricane, and flying into fiery volcanoes. Free shows are Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m., through April 2^nd, at Muskegon Community College (221 S. Quarterline Rd, Room 135). For more information, or to schedule a private show, please call (231) 777-0289, or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu. (Be watching for information on our other NEW show, starting April 7!)

The Art of the Brick®
Beginning February 19, the Muskegon Museum of Art will host The Art of the Brick®, an exhibition featuring large-scale sculptures created out of iconic LEGO® bricks by New York based artist Nathan Sawaya. The exhibition has proved to be very popular with audiences as it has toured the globe. “This year alone, we’ve visited Ireland, South Africa, and Amsterdam,” said Sawaya. “We are thrilled to be bringing this collection to Muskegon.” The Art of the Brick will be on view at the Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave from February 19 through May 3. The public is invited to attend an opening reception on Thursday, February 19, from 5:30 to 7:00pm. Light refreshments will be served at the family-friendly event, which will be free and open to the public. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

33rd Muskegon County Student Art show
‎”Expressions”, the annual Muskegon County student art exhibition is organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art in partnership with the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District. The show opens March 25 and will run through April 23. “Expressions” showcases the artistic talents of Muskegon County K-12 students, featuring two and three dimensional artworks in a variety of media. For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Recreational Club Fish Fry
‎It’s Muskegon Recreation Club’s Fish Fry Time again! Every other Friday from September 19 – through Good Friday, April 3, you’re invited to take part in their popular fish dinner. Take out is from 5:00pm – 7:30pm. Dine in from 5:30pm – 7:30pm. The cost is $9 for 1 lb. of lake perch, your choice of potato, cole slaw and bread. Onion rings are available for $3.00. The club is located at 1763 Lakeshore Dr. For more information, visit www.muskegonrecclub.com

Kimichik to Head Anti-Fraud Efforts at SOS

Investigative executive will help protect consumers from scam artists

LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced today that Al Kimichik has been hired as the department’s senior investigative executive, a new position responsible for preventing, detecting and helping prosecute fraud cases.

The new position is part of Johnson’s ongoing efforts to protect Michigan consumers and fight fraud. Kimichik began his duties Dec. 8.

Kimichik comes to the Secretary of State’s Office with more than 25 years of investigative and law enforcement experience from the Michigan Department of Human Services, where he served as inspector general since 2002. As inspector general, he assisted the department in maintaining the integrity and accountability of its programs by, among other efforts, developing fraud prevention programs that use data analytics and fraud detection training for the field staff.

As inspector general at DHS, he also developed and implemented FEE, a statewide fraud detection and prevention program for public assistance programs, that resulted in $240 million in cost avoidance and taxpayer savings over the past three years. Prior to DHS, Kimichik worked multiple investigative and enforcement roles for the Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Natural Resources.

“Al is an accomplished fraud-buster and we are fortunate to have him on our team,” Johnson said. “His expertise in uncovering and thwarting illegal activity will further strengthen our efforts to crack down on scam artists who target consumers.”

Kimichik will oversee and help implement a plan Johnson announced in October to use cutting-edge technology, expand best practices and maximize resources to fight fraud. The new measures include:

• A comprehensive review of the department’s processes, technology and structure to determine how best to detect and deter fraud.
• Data analysis to identify signs in transactions that may indicate fraud.
• Expanding the verification of the thousands of insurance certificates the department receives from customers daily.

• An upgrade in case management software to give department investigators the best tools for tracking down fraudulent activity.

• A roundtable discussion with business leaders about fraud to seek their advice and ensure the department is following best practices.

“I’m pleased for this opportunity to continue serving the interests of the people of Michigan in an investigative role with the Department of State,” Kimichik said. “Secretary Johnson has put fraud perpetrators on notice and I want to underscore her message to them that we will not tolerate fraudulent activity against the department or its customers and will aggressively investigate and prosecute those attempting to commit such acts.”

As Secretary of State, Johnson has made it a priority to crack down on fraud that targets the department and its customers. Working with the Michigan State Police, prosecutors, state officials and insurance industry leaders, she created the Fighting Auto Insurance Rip-Offs (FAIR) Task Force in 2013.

The task force has explored new ways to combat insurance fraud and issued recommendations earlier this year, some of which are reflected in Johnson’s latest initiatives that Kimichik will help put in place.
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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).

Travel by Dawn

4/17-4/19 – Kewadin Casino Run-$199/Up to $152 back-6 casinos, 2 breakfast and baggage and handling

5/9 – Detroit Tigers vs Kansas City Royals – TBA

5/16 – Fire Keepers and Gun Lake – $45/$40 back
6/9 – Shipshewana – $64, flea market, downtown, cheese factory and bulk food store and dinner.

See this web site for details: www.travelbydawn.com

Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber “Makes an Impression”

When people appreciate, promote and invest in a community, the local economy grows. The community attracts residents, visitors, businesses and workforce talent. That is the belief of the leaders at the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

Larry-Hines-2015-Board-Chair “It is important to make a good impression in business and as a community,” says Larry Hines, incoming board chair for the Chamber. Muskegon has undergone many changes in recent years and it is time people hear about and understand them,” says Hines.

Hines is referring to Muskegon’s low unemployment, millions of dollars in capital investment and many exciting new businesses downtown such as the Farmer’s Market, breweries and others.

Over the next few years, the Chamber will allocate resources and staff time to projects which promote Muskegon’s image as a premier waterfront community. They will also call on members to “Make an Impression” with their businesses, products and customer service.

“We are in process of organizing programs on customer service, marketing, and professionalism to assist businesses in their efforts to improve organizational image,” says Cindy Larsen, President of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

With more than 1,100 business members, the Chamber is in a position to spread positive information, through businesses, to thousands of people and many other communities. The more people who are educated on Muskegon’s business and community assets, the more effective the community will be in attracting visitors, residents, and business investment.

The Chamber is working with other community organizations on a comprehensive strategy for image improvement. “No one organization can take this on,” says Larsen. Over the next couple of years you will hear and see many Muskegon public and private organizations engaged in this effort,” Larsen adds. “We are just getting started.”

ABOUT THE CHAMBER
The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization on the lakeshore representing approximately 1,150 businesses and organizations. The Muskegon Chamber represents businesses of every size and type all over West Michigan. The Chamber is celebrating 120 years in operation working to sustain an environment for business success through community leadership, promotion, inclusive business advocacy and valued member services. The Muskegon Chamber is a three-time award winning Chamber, being named Chamber of the Year for the State of Michigan in 2006, 2010, and 2012 by the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals.

For Clear Sailing, Renew Your Watercraft Registration Online at Expresssos.Com

Watercraft renewal notices are sent in March

LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds boat owners of the ease and convenience of renewing their watercraft registration online at ExpressSOS.com as her office begins sending out more than 252,000 watercraft renewal notices.

“I encourage all boat owners to renew online,” Johnson said. “Where would you rather be, preparing your boat for a fun-filled season on the lake, or renewing your registration in person? Renewing online is quick and easy, leaving you more time to enjoy your boat.”

In 2014, more than 47,000 watercraft renewals were submitted online.

ExpressSOS.com offers two methods for renewal. Express Renewal is fast and easy, requiring only the boat’s registration number to renew. Online Renewal PLUS lists all vehicles and watercraft eligible for renewal and lets customers complete other online transactions at the same time, such as changing an address or renewing a driver’s license.

Update from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) – January 2015

After 65 years, Billy Graham’s message is still going viral

From the time BGEA was founded in 1950, Billy Graham and his team have used the latest technology to share the love and hope of Christ—a trend that continues under Franklin Graham’s leadership. Long before the Internet, Billy Graham “went viral” with the help of the technology of the day: the telegraph. Today, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association continues to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Telegraph has transitioned to live streamed events; reel-to-reel has now been replaced by social media; but one thing remains the same – reaching people with the hope found through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. READ MORE…

After ‘Unbroken’: Billy Graham and Louis Zamperini

Louis Zamperini’s life story has captivated millions through the New York Times best-selling novel Unbroken by Laura Hildebrand and the Universal Pictures film by the same name. The Billy Graham TV special, Louis Zamperini: Captured by Grace, documents his journey – from Olympic runner to WWII prisoner of war — all the way to his return home and encounter with Jesus Christ at a Billy Graham Crusade in Los Angeles in 1949.

Hear the rest of Louis Zamperini’s incredible story – including footage of Zamperini sharing his memories in his own words – in Captured by Grace, at www.billygraham.tv. READ MORE…

Billy Graham Library nears 1 million visitors

In 2014, the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C. welcomed more than 144,000 guests, with nearly 102,000 taking the Journey of Faith tour. This year the Library continues to carry out the legacy of Billy Graham’s ongoing Crusade. In 2015, the Library will welcome author’s Tim Brown, Dr. James Dobson and Shirley Dobson, Coach Bobby Bowden, David Benham and James Benham and more. Many favorite events return to the Library this year beginning with the Ladies Tea and Tour in April, and both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day breakfasts. Also in 2015, the Billy Graham Library anticipates their 1 millionth guest. For a full list of upcoming events and information on special exhibits, including Louis Zamperini memorabilia now on display, visit www.billygrahamlibrary.org.

If you would like more information about these, or other, updates from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, please contact media@bgea.org. Complete press releases from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association are available at billygraham.org/press-releases.

Michigan Reaches Historic Milestone

Michigan reaches historic milestone: More than half of all adults are now registered organ donors. In the last four years, 1.8 million more people sign up to give the gift of life.

LANSING – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today announced that the number of Michigan adults registered as organ, tissue and eye donors has now surpassed 50 percent and she credited her staff with helping to bring out the record-breaking growth.

Johnson was joined by partners from Gift of Life Michigan and the Michigan Eye-Bank at the Hamtramck Area PLUS Office on 9001 Joseph Campau Street in Hamtramck to thank Secretary of State staff and customers for their continued support of Michigan’s Organ Donor Registry. Other volunteers visited branches statewide to thank staff for their efforts.

“When I first took office, Michigan was near the bottom of the list nationally in terms of organ donors, with only 27 percent of eligible residents signed up, ” Johnson said. “Now, thanks to the hard work of branch staff, volunteers and other passionate advocates, we have reached the national average and registering as a donor has become a cultural norm. Every name means hope for the 3,400 people in Michigan still waiting for a life-saving or life-enhancing transplant.”

After she was elected in 2010, Johnson made expanding the organ donor rolls a priority but insisted that it be done at little to no cost to taxpayers. She directed her staff to start asking customers if they wanted to sign up, created a task force of leading experts and began promoting organ donor registration throughout her branch offices. About 85 percent of people who sign up do so through the Secretary of State’s office.

“We thank our partners for their efforts, and we especially thank the people of Michigan for recognizing that they have the power to heal lives by becoming organ, tissue and eye donors,” said Richard Pietroski, CEO of Gift of Life Michigan, the state’s organ and tissue recovery program.

“Secretary Johnson and her staff work hard to serve the people of Michigan,” said Lisa Langley, executive director of the Michigan Eye-Bank. “Taking the extra time to encourage people to join the registry is appreciated by all those who can see again, walk again or breathe again. We look forward to working with her office as we continue to grow the registry—one person at a time.”

More than 3,825,000 people are on the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. Every donor has the ability to save up to eight lives through organ donation and improve up to 50 more through cornea and tissue donation.

“People in Michigan are so generous, so caring and want to help others if they can,” Johnson said. “Every name on the donor registry means hope for waiting families. I’m so proud of our Secretary of State employees and their commitment to saving and improving lives throughout this state by asking customers to join the donor registry.”

Anyone can join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, regardless of age or medical history. Go to www.ExpressSOS.com, call 800-482-4881 or visit any Secretary of State office.

For more information on organ, eye and tissue donation, visit www.giftoflifemichigan.org or www.michiganeyebank.org. To sign up to the Michigan Organ Donor Registry and to access some of the Secretary of State’s most popular services, visit www.ExpressSOS.com.

Jail Break 2015

Muskegon County Sheriff, Dean Roesler,
Muskegon County Prosecutor, DJ Hilson and
Muskegon County Circuit Court Administrator, Eric Stevens
Present

Jail Break 2015

The Muskegon County Sheriff wants to give you a break on your unpaid jail debts. Anyone who has been in the Muskegon County Jail may have unpaid jail debt. You now have the opportunity to pay a one-time lump sum payment, and will have the remainder of your debt forever forgiven. You may also be able to negotiate a payment plan for your balance at a reduced rate during this event.

When: March 23 through April 3, 2015

Personal appearance is not required. Payments can be made in person, online, or by telephone. Cash, money order, and credit/debit cards are accepted. In person payments will be accepted Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Where: Muskegon County Consolidated Reimbursement Unit – 990 Terrace St., Third Floor (3rd), Muskegon, MI 49442

Contact: For questions about this event, including outstanding balance and payment directions, call (231) 724-6429 or email MuskegonCourtCollections@co.muskegon.mi.us. Follow us on Facebook at Muskegon County Family Court or Twitter @MskFamilyCourt.

New President of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association Of Michigan

Cass County Prosecuting Attorney Victor Fitz To Lead Prosecuting Attorneys Association Of Michigan Into New Year As President

(Lansing, MI)- Victor Fitz, Cass County Prosecutor and President of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan (PAAM), announced his focus for 2015. Prosecutor Fitz intends to emphasize unsolved cold case homicides, drug trends, and develop best practices for criminal justice issues. After his election as President by the PAAM Board of Directors in August, Fitz immediately formed three new committees made up of prosecuting attorneys from around the state to emphasize these areas of importance.

Fitz announced that a central goal for 2015 and beyond is for prosecutors to work with law enforcement on the significant number of unsolved cold case homicides in Michigan. Since 1980, FBI statistics estimate that Michigan has over 10,000 unsolved cold case homicides.

“This is a haunting number,” stated Fitz. “Over 10,000 families remain without closure. Their loved ones have suffered a violent or unnatural death. They deserve resolution. They deserve justice,” Fitz said.

Fitz’s drug initiative recognizes the disturbing effects that methamphetamine, prescription drugs, heroin and other narcotics are increasingly having on the Great Lakes Region—particularly the youth. “We will seek to increase communication and cooperation with in-state and out-state agencies to intensify effectiveness in combating illegal drug manufacturers in the Great Lakes Region,” advised Fitz.

2015 efforts are expected to include a law enforcement training on many of these drug related topics.

Under the direction of then-President Kym Worthy in 2014, PAAM initiated efforts to tackle the untested sexual assault kit backlog in Michigan. Fitz stated that these important themes will receive continued priority.

“It is extremely important for prosecutors to be as effective as possible when seeking justice for the citizens of our state. Following best practices and continuing our diligence on backlog challenges are essential to such efforts.”

Fitz noted that many legislative and criminal justice initiatives are considered by the PAAM membership on an annual basis.

“As always, PAAM looks forward to working with the various state and local branches of government, as well as citizens and the private sector in 2015. We share the common goal of making Michigan a better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Fitz.

Victor Fitz has been the prosecutor in Cass County since 2003 and will continue as PAAM President through August 2015. He previously served in the Muskegon, Tuscola and St. Clair County Prosecutors’ Office. Fitz is also an appointed member of the Michigan Crime Victim Services Commission, a division within the Michigan Department of Community Health.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan was established in 1928. It is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of: 5 officers, 14 elected directors, active past presidents and the Attorney General. The primary purposes of the association are to promote equal justice in enforcing the state’s criminal laws, and continuing the education of prosecuting attorneys and other law enforcement officials.

Local Law Firm Strengthens Its Litigation Team

Norton Shores, Michigan – Gielow Groom Terpstra & McEvoy (GGTM) recently increased the size and strength of its litigation team by adding attorney Jake Lombardo. Lombardo is a 2010 graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School and an experienced litigator who previously practiced at a large Grand Rapids firm. The addition of Lombardo makes GGTM’s litigation representation one of the strongest in West Michigan for a firm of its size.

Lombardo joins veteran litigation attorneys Brad Groom, Rachel Terpstra and Eric Gielow. Together, the team has more than 70 years of combined experience trying a wide variety of cases in both state and federal courts. GGTM’s litigation representation has included complex commercial litigation, contract disputes, environmental litigation and real estate disputes, to name a few.

Letter to the Editor: Protection of Marriage Act

The constitution of the United States, contains a clause that protects the citizens of this nation from unjust or wrongful laws or decisions by the Congress, the Executive Branch, or the Judicial Branch of our government.

This clause is referred to as our Checks and Balance system.

The U.S. Supreme courts decisions by a 5 to 4 vote, declared the Protection of Marriage act unconstitutional.

This decision is one of the most immoral, absurd illogical decisions ever rendered by the U.S. Supreme court, with the only exception being the decision to legalize abortion on demand.

There is nothing unconstitutional about limiting marriage to one man and one women. The Supreme court is clearly exceeding their authority. We as citizens must contact our Legislators to reverse this decision. In the event this decision is not reversed this court will legalize same sex marriage in June.

Same sex marriage is an abomination to our creator, and will cause an economic drain on Social Security. Same sex marriages, will enable a same sex spouse to draw on their spouses Social Security, also these same sex spouses will be entitled to be covered by their spouses insurance. In other words they will be entitled to every benefit that traditional couples receive. Write or call your Senator, your Representative or the Supreme court judges themselves, Their addresses and phone numbers can be obtained off the internet.

Don’t let this happen.

Richard L. Lang
Ravenna, MI 49451

Letter to the Editor: Common Core

Many of us have fought Common Core in our schools, the slow takeover of the Federal Government. Our Constitution gives this right to each state, not the Federal Government. I understand that money was held back, not given to “Smart Balance,” then the M.D.A. gave 4.9 million to them for a membership to use “Smart Balance” and calls it “INSTEP,” only the name change.

Parents, do you know what your children are being taught, tested for or the questions asked them? Have you checked the books for reading recommended by Common Core? I feel our schools are being dumbed down.

Think of the changes that have taken. It isn’t Christmas Break or Christmas Play, etc. It is Winter Break. Not Easter Break – it’s Spring Break. The history of how our forefathers gave and died to give us our freedom and Constitution is being taught less and less. Now, we have a war on Christianity in most countries, yes, even in America!

March 24th at 6:30 p.m. will be an informational meeting at Central Assembly of God, 896 Home Street, Muskegon. Enter at door #2. Our speaker, Melonie Kunds, is a math teacher and has many other qualifications. Come, listen, and ask questions.

–Billie G. Picklesimer, Ravenna

Board of Trustees_ 02-23-15

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 23, 2015

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2015, 2014, 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

Also Present: 0–employees; 0-residents; Director of Public Works, Farrar; Public Safety Director, Doctor; and 4-Muskegon Bike Time board members

At 7:00 p.m., Supervisor Werschem opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer.
The meeting minutes of January 26, 2015, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The board meeting agenda for February 23, 2015, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
Michigan Townships Association legislative update of 02/06/15.

Revenue and Expenditure report for period ending 01/31/2015.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – PART 1
No comments received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

NEW BUSINESS

15-011 Muskegon Bike Time 2015 Agreement
Chuck Whitlow moved, Dave Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to enter into a 2015 Agreement with Muskegon Bike Time, LLC. and to authorize the Supervisor to sign the document.

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

15-012 Public Hearing – Truth in Taxation Hearing
(a.) Dave Markgraf moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to open the Truth in Taxation hearing at 7:26 p.m.

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

(b.) Public Hearing: The Supervisor announced the proposed millage rates as follows: General Fund at the millage rate of .9965, Public Safety at 1.50 mills, Police at 1.00 mills and street lighting at .45 mills.

No further discussion was heard.

Budget adoption of the 2015-2016 township budgets will be done at the next meeting on March 9, 2015.

(c.) The motion by Dave Markgraf, supported by Rose Dillon, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to close the public hearing at 7:28 p.m. and return to open session.

15-013 OPEB (Other Post Employee Benefits) Funding Adjustments and Reallocation
Chuck Whitlow moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to make the following changes to the current investment portfolio for our OPEB plan:

Transfer all funds from Short Term Income to a 50/50 split in Large Cap Stock index and Mid Cap Stock index and make future contributions in the same fashion.

This change in current funds and future investments need to be applied to both Portfolio Division 600283 and Portfolio Division 600286.

15-014 Public Meeting Schedule for 2015-2016
The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Carol Hulka, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adopt the board and committee meeting dates for Fiscal Year 2015-2016, as presented, with cancellation of board meeting on Memorial Day, May 25, 2015.

15-015 Bridge Street Water Main Replacement Project
Chuck Whitlow moved, seconded by Dave Markgraf, was MOTION CARRIED, to accept the low bid from Tiles Excavating, Inc. on the summer schedule with asphalt to be covered by the Village of Fruitport, and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to sign the necessary documents.

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

15-016 Police Cruiser Cameras
Marjorie Nash moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to outfit three police cruisers with cameras and accessories at the cost of $20,410 and the two remaining police cruisers will have cameras and accessories installed and paid for out of the 2015-2016 budget. Part of the cost of the cameras and accessories will be paid for from a MTA (Michigan Townships Association) grant of $3,500. The Police Committee made the recommendation.

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

14-017 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Carol Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $10,665.21; Public Safety$18,745.49; Water $67,586.45; Sewer $50,294.79. Totaling: $147,291.94.

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

REPORTS –
Matt Farrar, DPW Director, stated that Fruitport Township will be getting water from the City of Muskegon in April.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Part II — None received

ADJOURNMENT

The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Chuck Whitlow, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adjourn the meeting at 7:51p.m.

CAROL HULKA, CLERK BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Ask Dr. Universe – A Roller Coaster in Your Brain

Dear Dr. Universe: Do children’s brains work better in the morning or in the afternoon?
– Grace, Spring, TX

Dear Grace,

Hang on tight because the human brain keeps you on a 24-hour roller coaster.

Every day the human body produces a chemical messenger in the brain called melatonin. It tells the body when it is time to go to bed.

“It’s just like your parents,” said my friend Samantha Gizerian, an assistant professor at Washington State University, who studies how kid and baby brains develop. “Except you can’t run away from melatonin.”

Melatonin goes up at night, peaks while you are sleeping, and comes down in the morning. Melatonin levels stay low across the afternoon and start to rise again in the evening. Your brain also cools down as you fall asleep, warms up during the day, and then cools off again before bedtime.

Gizerian said you can’t run away from melatonin because it works with the sun. As it gets darker outside, the nerves in your eyes perceive less light. That’s how the brain knows to start producing melatonin. This also why it’s important to turn off any screens or lights before bed—otherwise your brain might think it is daytime and you won’t sleep well. You’ll be feeling like a zombie the next day.

“You are always going to be more alert in the mid-morning or afternoon, whether you are an early bird or a night owl,” Gizerian said, causing my ears to perk up at the talk of both birds and sleep.

She also explained that most of what scientists know about young brains actually comes from studying older, teenage brains. Babies and kids like to move around a lot and much of the research requires the study subject to stay still.

Scientists know teenage brain clocks are about two hours behind those of full-grown adults, so when adult brains are hard at work, young brains are still warming up. Their bodies are also producing other kinds of messengers that are helping them grow.

“That delay may be a way that the brain has developed for more rest and recovery,” Gizerian said, “but who knows.”

So, to answer your question, young brains do not work better in the morning. Some studies have shown students even perform better on tests when they take them in the afternoon, Gizerian said. In fact, almost all the research on teenage brains shows they function better in the afternoon. A good night’s sleep helps, too.

I could attest to this from my personal experience and will celebrate Brain Awareness Week and National Nap Day this month with a lot of catnaps.

Years ago sleep researchers wondered why teenagers liked to stay up so late, preferred to sleep-in, and were so sleepy in the morning, Once they found out about melatonin patterns in their brains, researchers wondered why this chemical rollercoaster was going on at all. It’s a question that still puzzles them.

Sincerely,

Dr. Universe

Got a question? Ask Dr. Universe! Send an e-mail to Washington State University’s resident cat-scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at askdruniverse.com.

Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizens

The Muskegon Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is proud to announce the following students as this year’s DAR Good Citizens from area high schools.

Candy S. Morales – Algoma Christian School
Michelle Courtney Postiff – Calvary Christian HS
Bailli Mammen – Fruitport HS
Ashley Taylor Friend – Holton HS
Savannah R. Manning – Muskegon HS
Ja Teryn Nicole Moore – Muskegon Heights Academy HS
Abigail Marie Vermuellen – North Muskegon High School
Victoria Anne Mueller – Oakridge HS
Lillian Rachel Lieffers – Ravenna HS
Rebekah Beeghly – Whitehall HS

The DAR Good Citizen program recognizes and rewards the qualities of good citizenship as manifested by dependability, service, leadership and patriotism to an outstanding degree. The program is open to members of the senior class enrolled in accredited private and public secondary schools in our service area of Muskegon and Ottawa counties. Each DAR good citizen is selected by the faculty of their school, as having demonstrated, in an outstanding manner, these qualities of outstanding citizenship. The DAR Good Citizens are invited to compete for Muskegon Chapter DAR Good Citizen scholarships, the winner of which will advance to State level DAR scholarship consideration.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote patriotism, preserve American history, and support better education for our nation’s children. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With more than 165,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world’s largest and most active service organizations. The Muskegon Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution was the eighth chapter chartered in Michigan, beginning in November, 1898. We have operated continuously since, providing service to the community, serving our servicemen and veterans, preserving our history and genealogy, promoting patriotism, and investing in our future. Each year we award at least three scholarships to those competing in the DAR Good Citizen Scholarship program. We also award scholarships to qualified DAR descendants.

Membership in the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is open to any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. Please see www.muskegon.michdar.net if you are interested in joining us.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 03/10/15-03/16/15

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

03/10/2015 – Pedal 4 Pints
Pedal 4 Pints is a fun collaboration between City Hub Cyclery, Pigeon Hill Brewing & Unruly Brewing as a way to be active (pedal on a stationary bike) and earn points for prizes (maybe even a pint). Wear your comfy clothes and check it out Tuesday, March 10 from 5:00pm-8:00pm at Pigeon Hill Brewing, located at 500 W. Western Ave.

03/12/2015 – Brown Bag Film: Kehinde Wiley – An Economy of Grace
‎Thursday, March 12 at 12:15pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Brown Bag Film, “Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace”. (60 mins.) Known for his vibrant reinterpretations of classical portraits featuring African-American men, New York-based painter Kehinde Wiley has turned the practice of portraiture on its head and in the process has taken the art world by storm. This film follows the artist as he takes on a new project: a series of classical portraits of African-American women. Auditorium doors open at noon. Coffee, cookies, and film admission are free. Paid admission is required to visit the upper level galleries. Brown Bag Films are underwritten by the Alcoa Foundation/Howmet. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/12/2015 – Postcard Salon Sale & Reception
Come to the Muskegon Museum of Art Thursday, March 12 at 5:30pm for the Postcard Salon Sale & Reception. These pieces of tiny art are for sale for only $30 each. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. There will also be a cash bar. Postcard Salon is sponsored by G & L Greek Chili Dogs. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/13/2015 – Mommy & Me at the Museum
‎Lakeshore Museum Center’s next Mommy and Me will be held Friday, March 13 at 10:00am. Kids 4 and younger, along with a parent, grandparent or caregiver, will get to explore the museum looking for all of the Mastodon’s favorite museum friends! Call 722-0278 to reserve your child’s spot.

03/13/2015 – 03/14/2015 St. Patrick’s Party
The Michigan Irish Music Festival is presenting its annual St. Patrick’s Party March 13 and 14 at the Fricano Event Center in downtown Muskegon! The party will feature live music both nights with Seamus Kennedy and Finvarra’s Wren. For many years, Seamus Kennedy has been a favorite at the Michigan Irish Music Festival. This will be his first appearance at the annual St. Pat’s Party. The party will feature McGovern’s Corned Beef and Irish fare, Fricano’s pizza, with scones and pretzels from the Village Baker. Irish Fest Stout, Magner’s Irish Cider, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Irish Cream and Budweiser products will also be served. In addition, Irish dancers from the Ardan Academy of Dance will perform and a silent auction will be held each night. Doors open at 5:30pm both nights with music starting at 6:00pm. Tickets are $6 and are available at the door. For more information, visit michiganirish.org.

03/13/2015 – Alley Door: The Crane Wives
‎The Alley Door Club is located on the 3rd floor of the Hilt Building in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. Doors open at 6 PM. The Crane Wives will play 7 PM – 10 PM Cash bar available. Valid I.D. required. Tickets $7 in advance at the Frauenthal Box Office. 4-top $55.00* price includes 4 admission tickets 8-top $80.00* price includes 8 admission tickets Monday – Friday 11 AM – 5:30 PM. For more information call 231-727-8001 Tickets also available at the (door) from the Frauenthal Box Office.

03/13/2015 – 03/21/2015 Bowl for Kids’ Sake
‎Volunteers and community members are lacing up their bowling shoes to help all children achieve success in life. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore is holding its largest and longest running annual fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake, throughout the month of March along the Lakeshore. Bowlers are asked to solicit pledges, and then bowl with their team at one of the 6 events the Agency is hosting in Grand Haven, Muskegon or Hart. Money raised from these events is used to seek and support mentors for children in need of a caring and consistent adult in their lives. Bowlers are asked to raise a minimum of $75 in pledges or a team goal of at least $300 for a team of four. Teams are treated to bowling, pizza and pop along with the chance to win great prizes while playing the Agency’s version of “Minute to Win It” games.

To take part in this year’s events, call Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore (231-798-1391) to receive the necessary forms to register a team and start collecting pledges.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2015:
March 13^th: Sherman Bowling Center, Muskegon, 7pm
March 14^th: FOE Bowling Club, Hart, 7pm
March 15^th: Bob-Hi Lanes, Muskegon, 1pm
March 21^st: Northway Lanes, Muskegon, 7pm

03/13/2015 – Beethoven & Blue Jeans
‎Friday, March 13 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater as the West Michigan Symphony presents a Beethoven sandwich! The WMS performs two rarely-heard Beethoven masterpieces of humor, depth and perpetual motion. Between them, the brilliant German virtuoso Nicolas Altstaedt performs Dmitri Shostakovich’s powerful, rhythmic, searingly passionate Cello Concerto, originally written for a young Rostropovich. Single ticket prices are $18, $23, $38 and $48. Student ticket price is $7. Tickets are available at the Frauenthal Box Office or through startickets.com.

03/14/2015 – 107-MUS Health Expo
Saturday, March 14, come to the Lakes Mall for the 107-MUS Health Expo, held in conjunction with Mercy Health Partners’ “The Ride” program and the 1 in 21 Muskegon Health County health initiative. “The Ride” is an indoor stationary bike race that raises money to support Mercy Health Partners H.E.A.R.T. (Health Enhancement And Rehabilitative Therapy) programs and is expected to attract over 500 riders. Exhibitors come from all over West Michigan providing the community with health and wellness benefits that are important to keeping the Lakeshore healthy and happy. To register or learn more about The Ride, contact Amber Wallace in Mercy Health’s

Community Development office at 231-672-6976. For exhibitor information, please contact Craig Niles at 231.830.3131 or CraigNiles@iHeartMedia.com.

03/14/2015 – 03/15/15 ABA North Central Division Final Four
The West Michigan Lake Hawks are hosting the first round of playoffs and also the ABA North Central Division Final Four here in the West Michigan for the first time ever as an ABA Franchise. Games 1 and 2 will be played at Muskegon High School, Saturday, March 14 with the 1st game at 5:00pm and the 2nd at 7:30pm. The North Central Division Championship will be Sunday, March 15 at 6:00pm. Tickets can be purchased online at lakehawksbasketball.com under schedules through Eventbright or at the door of each event. Tickets can also be purchased at the Lake Hawks office located at 1904 Peck St.

03/14/2015 – Nicolas. Cello. Virtuosic.
Come to the Block Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm for “Nicolas. Cello. Virtuosic.”! Cellist Nicolas Altstaedt is one of the most celebrated artists of the younger generation and one of the most creative and independent of musicians. Hear him first with West Michigan Symphony on March 13 and then in a powerful and passionate solo cello performance @The Block on March 14. Tickets are $25 and available at the West Michigan Symphony website.

03/14/2015 – Super Brick Art Saturday
Saturday, March 14 from 10:00am–3:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a Super Brick Art Saturday FREE Family Fun Day with LEGO® Bricks! Toys turn into art! Check out the spectacularly engineered and innovative work of Nathan Sawaya in The Art of the Brick. After you get inspired, head downstairs to make your own sculptures and watch a film. It is sure to be a building and learning type of Saturday at the MMA!

10:00am & 1:00pm
Film: The LEGO Movie®
(101 mins.) Check out your favorite LEGO characters on the big screen in this exciting family friendly film.

11:00am–1:00pm
Guided Exhibition Tours
Join an MMA docent to explore The Art of the Brick.

11:00am–2:00pm
Make & Take
Push your creative bounds by building bricks up, down and across. Make a block sculpture to take home. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/14/2015 – Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham
Saturday, March 14 at 10:00am, come to the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club for Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham! Breakfast will be served promptly at 10:00am. The cost is a $15 donation for 1 adult and 1 child, plus $5 for each additional person. Each child will receive a Dr. Seuss book and enjoy a visit from a Dr. Seuss character. For reservations, call Barbara at 231-760-5757. Checks should be made out to GMWC and mailed by March 10, 2015. Walk-ins welcome as space permits.

03/14/2015 – Family Fun K9 Expo & Indoor Dog Jog
You and your K-9 friends are invited to the Family Fun K9 Expo & Indoor Dog Jog at Orchard View Adult Education. This fundraiser for PoundBuddies is happening 10:00am-2:00pm Saturday, March 14. If you want to bring your dog, you must register in advance for the Dog Jog ($15). Participants receive a t-shirt and a gourmet dog treat from Ebby’s Pet Bakery. Otherwise, admission is free. Call (231) 724-6500 to register or for more information.

03/14/2015 – St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Greater Muskegon Jaycees are teaming up with Hennessy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Michigan Irish Music festival to put on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade this year. The Parade will run on March 14^th, 2015 in downtown Muskegon. The route will be from Fourth to Jefferson Streets along Clay Ave. We hope to make The Parade one of Muskegon’s largest celebrations displaying Irish Floats, Bands, Families, Organizations, Business entries and much more!

The application for this year’s Parade can be filled out at the link below. Instead of charging an entry fee for The Parade, they are asking entrants to bring one non-perishable food item per participant. For more information, visit muskegonjaycees.org.

03/14/2015 – St Pattys Day Downtown Pub Crawl
‎Join in the fun and have the luck of the Irish on your side Saturday March 14 all day, beginning at noon at your favorite downtown watering holes with you friends! Pick up punch cards all day at any participating bar, all can enjoy in the evening for the Guinness Toast of the Irish, and enter to win awesome prizes! This event is hosted by Taste of Muskegon. For more information, find them on Facebook.

03/14/2015 – Red Wings Alumni Game
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are pleased to announce the third installment of the Red Wings Alumni Game to take place inside the L.C. Walker Arena on Saturday, March 14th, 2015 beginning at 7:00 pm, featuring the Detroit Red Wings alumni paired against the Muskegon Lumberjacks alumni with the proceeds from the event benefitting the Muskegon Lumberjacks Charitable Foundation.

General admission tickets for the game go on sale beginning Monday, December 1st at 10:00 am for the low prices of $12 for the Gold Sections (Sections 104-107 and 114-117) and $10 for both the Black (Sections 103, 108, 113, 118) and Crimson (Sections 101-102, 109-112, 119-120) Sections. Additionally, V.I.P. tickets are available for $25 that includes entry into a special meet-and-greet postgame event at the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor next door to the arena.

To purchase tickets for the Red Wings Alumni Game, fans can stop by the L.C. Walker Arena Box Office during the normal business hours of 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Monday – Friday or call (231) 724-5225. Doors for the game will open beginning at 6:00 pm.

The Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association has announced a select number of players that are confirmed and skating for the Red Wings alumni team that includes the following:

Joey Kocur (F) – 15-year NHL career with Detroit (10 seasons), New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks from 1984-99
John Ogrodnick (F) – 14-year NHL career with Detroit (9 seasons), Quebec, and New York Rangers from 1979-1993
Petr Klima (F) – 13-year NHL career with Detroit (6 seasons), Edmonton, Tampa Bay, Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh from 1985-97 and 1998-99
Mickey Redmond (F) – 9-year NHL career with Detroit (6 seasons) and Montreal from 1967-76
Brent Fedyk (F) – 10-year NHL career with Detroit (5 seasons), Philadelphia, Dallas, and New York Rangers from 1987-96 and 1998-99
Bryan Smolinski (F) – 14-year NHL career with Boston, Pittsburgh, New York Islanders, Los Angeles, Ottawa, Chicago, Vancouver, and Montreal from 1993-2004 and 2005-08
Sergei Samsonov (F) – 13-year NHL career with Boston, Edmonton, Montreal, Chicago, Carolina, and Florida from 1997-2004 and 2005-11
Craig Wolanin (D) – 13-year NHL career with New Jersey, Quebec, Colorado, Tampa Bay, and Toronto from 1985-98
Wayne Presley (F) – 11-year NHL career with Chicago, San Jose, Buffalo, New York Rangers, and Toronto from 1985-96

03/14/2015 – One Night of Queen
‎Saturday, March 14, at 7:30pm on the Frauenthal Stage, it’s “One Night of Queen” performed by Gary Mullen & the Works. Tickets are $21, $26 & $31 and available through StarTickets by calling 800-585-3737 or the Frauenthal Box Office at 231-727-8001. Frauenthal Box Office hours are Monday – Friday 11:00am – 5:30pm.

03/14/2015 – St Patrick’s Day with Nessa
‎Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm, come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Howmet Playhouse with Celtic band Nessa! This Detroit area ensemble led by flutist/vocalist Kelly McDermott, combines classical, jazz, and Celtic influences with accents of world music and soul. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, call 231-894-4048.

03/16/2015 – WWII Lecture Series: Fun at the Front
‎The 2015 WWII Lecture Series is finally here! March 16 at 6:00pm, it’s Fun at the Front: American Women and Entertainment in WWII, presented by Dr. Kara Dixon-Vuic, Associate Professor History, High Point University. Cost is $5.00 per person or FREE with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Ongoing Events:

Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit
African Americans have always proudly served in the United States Military beginning with Crispus Attucks who became the first casualty of the American Revolution when he was shot and killed in what became known as the Boston Massacre. Since then, their accomplishments have been many and great. The USS Silversides Submarine Museum is proud to tell the tale of the brave African Americans who served their country proudly during World War II, especially those from our own Muskegon Community, Dr. Robert Garrison and Denzal Harvey. Come learn about the achievements and the hardships endured by these wonderful heroes of American WWII history, March 4 – April 4, 2015 at the Silversides Submarine Museum. There will be an opening reception March 4 at 6:00pm. The cost is $5 or free with membership. For more information, call (231) 755-1230.

03/10/2015 – ‘Dynamic Earth’ Planetarium Viewing
“Dynamic Earth: Exploring Earth’s Climate Engine” is a NEW, 30-minute planetarium program that will have you riding on swirling ocean currents, diving into the heart of a hurricane, and flying into fiery volcanoes. FREE shows are Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m., January 13-April 2 (closed March 3 & 5 for semester break), at Muskegon Community College (221 S. Quarterline Rd, Room 135). For more information, or to schedule a private show, please call (231) 777-0289, or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young
Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young is an exhibition of original book illustrations by artist Amy Young at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Big-footed ballerinas, dogs on boats, and mud fairies are just a few of the characters that Amy Young has brought to life through her stories and bright, colorful book illustrations. This exhibition features original artwork she created for the popular children’s book Belinda the Ballerina and other books that Young has written and illustrated. The exhibition will be on display through April 26, 2015. For more information, call 231-720-2574.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
January 22-March 26, you’re invited to be part of the Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition of the Muskegon Museum of Art.

Ekphrasis: The graphic, often dramatic, description of a visual work of art

All adult/college writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on works of art from the Muskegon Museum of Art’s permanent collection.

The 10 artworks may be viewed on-line at muskegonartmuseum.org or at the MMA on January 22. Competition guidelines and entry forms will also be available for download or to pick up in the gift store on January 22.
Cash prizes, Museum memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets.
Competition entries will be accepted through March 26. The awards ceremony and award winners reading will take place April 23.

Call 231-720-2570 for more information.

Muskegon Farmers Market
‎Shop for your fresh, local products during the winter months inside at the Muskegon Farmers Market from 9:00am-2:00pm each Saturday in their warm, cozy barn at 242 W. Western Ave., downtown Muskegon.

2015 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference Announced

Michigan State University Extension is pleased to announce the dates for the 2015 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference. The two-day conference will be held Friday and Saturday, April 10 -11 in Grand Rapids, MI.

The conference will feature separate basic and advanced sessions for hop growers as well as a barley session and malting tour and is designed for both growers and brewers. Several prominent speakers from around the country will be on hand to discuss: market outlook, horticultural practices, pest and disease control, harvest and post-harvest practices, nutrient management, and more.

There will also be a brewer/grower networking session that focuses on hop quality. The session will provide growers with a better idea of quality requirements and help align the supply of Michigan grown hops with brewer needs.

The conference is sponsored in part by the Michigan Brewer’s Guild, ISLAND, Greenstone Farm Credit Services, MSU PROJECT GREEEN, amongst others.

Please continue to visit Michigan State University Extension, Michigan State University Extension Hops Webpage, and the Michigan State University Hops News Facebook page for up to date information.

Finally, please sign up for the new MSU Hop listserv for a lively interactive discussion of all things hop related. To subscribe:
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Muskegon Bike Time Expanding In 2015

“Expectations of guests and need for more space necessitate move to larger location”

MUSKEGON, Mich. – After eight successful years, Muskegon Bike Time will be expanding to a new location at 4800 S. Harvey Street, Muskegon, MI. As the fastest growing motorcycle festival in the country, the event has attracted over 120,000 people and over 75,000 motorcycles, annually, to downtown Muskegon. The expansion will help address several needs including more space for vendors, more attractions and more entertainment.

“The expansion is in response to our visitors requests and the long term sustainability of Bike Time”, said Bike Time Board Chairman, Clyde Whitehouse. “This new and exciting venue will allow Bike Time to grow beyond its current physical restraints, yet retain the downtown experience”.

Muskegon Bike Time will take place July 16 -19, 2015.

A recent survey of Bike Time visitors indicated overwhelmingly that they wanted more motorcycle parts and accessories vendors, merchandise and shopping options, attractions, food options and entertainment.

The new location is on the site formerly known as Great Lakes Downs on Harvey Street. This new site will have plenty of space for growth and will allow for the expansion of vendors and will feature new attractions like motocross races, motorcycle stunt shows, and other features for the whole family. In addition, adult beverages will be available over the entire site. Future growth plans include the sorely needed availability of camping.

The property at Harvey Street is owned by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the group that also owns Little River Casino in Manistee, Mi. Little River Casino is a major sponsor of Muskegon Bike Time. The property will be cleaned up and maintained and will allow for the growth needed by Muskegon Bike Time. “The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians has always wanted to be an integral part of the economic growth of the greater Muskegon area and this partnership with Little River Casino helps accomplish their goal”, said Whitehouse.

Over the years, Muskegon Bike Time has been an economic boon to hotels, restaurants, bars, gas stations, local retailers and other local tourist attractions. Bike Time provides an economic impact of over $30 million yearly to the local economy.

The recent survey also indicated that 54% of Bike Time visitors came from outside the Muskegon area. This enhances awareness of the greater Muskegon area and showcases our natural beauty and other valuable assets including 26 miles of sugar sand beaches and dunes, Lake Michigan, some of the best sunsets in the world, amusement parks and a variety of culture and arts for every taste and budget.

Bike Time also supports the community by assisting 22 charities with financial support. In addition, the coming together of people in a common interest binds communities, strengthens friendships and exposes people to new ideas and directions. Bike Time helps our community grow and is a vital piece of weaving the fabric that is our community.

Muskegon Bike Time provides sponsorship options that can help supporters reach new customers, promote their brand, entertain clients, customers and employees, enhance the community image and assist local charitable causes. For more information on sponsorship opportunities call 231-722-0000.

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time 2015, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com .

The mission of Muskegon Bike Time is to produce entertainment opportunities in Muskegon aimed at attracting a broad spectrum of motorcycle enthusiasts for a vacation experience on Michigan’s West Coast. It is a 4 day annual celebration of motorcycles and the community held the third weekend in July. The festival attracts motorcyclists and the general public for its spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food.

Wake up and smell the genes

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

Like millions of Americans, my day starts by plugging in the coffeepot. In my case, it’s an old fashion percolator. It clears its throat and brews my coffee while I rub sleep out of my eyes and brush my teeth.

My habit of starting my day with coffee — and following that initial cup with doses of java in the mid-morning, the late morning and the early-afternoon — may be at least partially grounded in my genes.

Researchers have long believed that genetics influences a person’s daily coffee consumption. Early this fall, a new study fleshed out just how many variations in genes may be involved in determining who drinks a lot of java.

Marilyn Cornelis of the Harvard School of Public Health helped orchestrate the research published in a journal called Molecular Psychiatry. The work rested on about two dozen previous research projects that had a total of about 120,000 subjects. That’s a big group, made up of people who answered questions about how much coffee they consumed and then donated a sample of their DNA to researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

In the past, scientists had identified two genetic variants that “code” for coffee consumption. Now six new gene variations have been found to be common in people who drink a lot of coffee and other caffeinated beverages. Four of the newly discovered variants are linked either to the stimulating impact of caffeine on the body or to how we break down caffeine — two loci (POR and ABCG2) change the metabolism of caffeine; two other loci (BDNF and SLC6A4) appear to relate to how rewarding is the experience of caffeine.

The last two loci (GCKR and MLXIPL) found in the study were not expected: they are not clearly associated with caffeine but rather act to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It’s not known how they relate to the propensity to quaff coffee and other caffeinated beverages.

Cornelis told the New York Daily News that the genetic variants don’t correspond to how strong coffee tastes to an individual. That result surprised her, as it does me.

The Harvard Gazette also wrote a piece on the findings. It mentioned the fact that some studies have shown benefits from drinking coffee each day. Cornelis has not been a coffee drinker, but because of some of the information coming out in recent years, she is giving java a go.

I wish Cornelis well in her personal experiment. I can admit I didn’t like the strength and taste of coffee when I first tried it in college. But now I think coffee tastes good and, to me, the taste of good coffee seems quite mild. I also think coffee-flavored ice cream is grand – in particular when it comes with a cup of hot coffee on the side.

Maybe my love of coffee was determined when my genes first formed in utero. It’s an interesting thought.

New Option to Waive Driver Responsibility Fees

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson promotes new option to waive Driver Responsibility Fees through community service. Nonprofits and those who serve them will also benefit.

DETROIT ‒ About 168,000 people could perform community service instead of paying hundreds of dollars for some Driver Responsibility Fees, a move that benefits both drivers and the agencies that serve Michigan communities around the state, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said recently at the North American International Auto Show.

“Traffic ticket fees, court costs and higher insurance premiums are difficult enough,” Johnson added. “With this new program, motorists can meet their legal obligations while minimizing any added financial burden to their families and while also helping people in their community.”

Johnson voted against the fees as a state representative and has supported eliminating them, calling them a burden. The new program gives motorists an opportunity to eliminate their Driver Responsibility Fees by completing 10 hours of volunteer work for each qualifying assessment on their driving record. The Michigan Department of Treasury mailed a letter with additional information to those who are eligible; more details are also available at http://www.michigan.gov/driverresponsibility.

Sam Slaughter, Detroit Auto Dealers Association president; Lisa Machesky, Lighthouse of Oakland County Chief Executive Officer; and Louis D. Piszker, chief executive officer for the Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency joined Johnson at the auto show announcement.

“We know that lack of transportation is a significant barrier to long-term self-sufficiency and financial stability in our community,” Piszker said. “This service program aligns with our mission to empower people. It puts the onus on the individual to take the initiative, fulfill their obligations and move forward on a positive path.”

The Driver Responsibility Fee-Community Service program began Jan.1 and will end on Dec. 31. Eligible candidates must submit an application to the treasury department specifying which qualifying assessments they would like waived and what type of community service they will perform. Once their applications are approved, they will have 45 days to complete their volunteer work. Those with several qualifying assessments may request a deferral for some of them and, if approved, complete the remainder at a later date during the year.

Eligible individuals must volunteer to work for someone other than a family member without receiving any compensation. Volunteer opportunities can include local nonprofits (organizations classified as a 501c(3)), places of worship, schools, or city and state agencies.

The Driver Responsibility Fees that can be erased by community service are for No Proof of Insurance, No Insurance, Driving Without Proper License/Endorsement/Vehicle Group Designator, Driving While License Expired, and Driving While Unlicensed or License Not Valid.

Residents with questions about the program and the qualifications needed to apply can also call the Department of Treasury at 800-950-6227.

Letter to the Editor: Taxes

To the Editor:

In regard to the Muskegon County Road Millage, voting February 24, 2015. Four times within 6 – 7 months, asking for tax increases. This will be 5 by the State Sales Tax increase this May. Millions of taxpayer money is spent for these voting days. Why not combine some of these voting days? If money is so tight, why pay $230,000 to remodel a house on Leahy Street, then sell it for $75,000? Who pays the $160,000? We do!

The new MATS bus center, $2.356 million. Officials have plans for recreation – does not include city or townships. This county tax is at market value, not taxable value, a huge increase in our property taxes. There is a discussion about taxing how many miles we drive our cars. Our state and federal are talking about adding more tax at the gas pump. Isn’t it time to stand firm, let politicians know we have had enough of their taking from the people they work for?

Perhaps it is time we clean house. Where is the accountability for all these monies? I haven’t found that money tree they think we grow! Read the fine print. Ask questions.

–Billie Picklesimer
Ravenna, MI

*What about the war on Christianity? Who is fighting to stop this?

Keeping warm with gold fever

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

I own a couple of small gold nuggets. They came from the Round Mountain gold mine in Nevada, which I visited a few years ago. A tour of the open-pit mine was crowned by a visit to their foundry where the molten metal was poured into gold bars. Those bars are what’s called doré gold, that is, it’s the metal as it comes out of the ground with minor impurities in it like silver. The doré bars are then transported to a refinery where pure gold can be separated from other metals. I got to heft one of the doré bars, and I can attest that gold is, indeed, remarkably dense.

A mega-gold nugget found in California was in the news recently. It was large enough to about fill a human hand and weighed just over 6 pounds. That’s about 75 troy ounces. It was dubbed the “Butte Nugget” because it was found last summer in Butte County, supposedly on public land. The nugget sold for about $400,000 to a buyer who chose to remain anonymous.

News reports — sketchy because of the secrecy of the discovery and sale — said the nugget was found with a metal detector. When the detector indicated an extremely strong signal, the operator thought he had likely found a piece of pipe or a horseshoe. Happily, he had the good sense to dig down about a foot into the soil where the nugget lay.

Gold occurs in the Earth in two main forms: as lode gold or as placer gold. Lode gold is found in veins, usually made of quartz, that cut across rocks. You may recognize the word “lode” as part of the famous idea of the Mother Lode, the mythical deep and rich vein thought to be that from which other smaller veins branch off. If you find the Mother Lode, your financial problems are over.

When gold veins occur at the surface of the Earth they are broken down, or weathered, by water. The quartz in the veins crumbles into quartz pebbles and sand. The gold is liberated from the vein material, falling out as loose nuggets or small gold grains that can be as fine as sand. Because gold is dense and doesn’t react with water under most conditions, loose gold can accumulate and form what’s known as placer gold ore. In streams, placer gold is found where running water slows down and the gold settles out: on the inside bend of turns in streams and behind boulders.

Patience, a good metal detector, and lots of luck can clearly still lead to stupendous gold nugget finds. Like winning the lottery, dreaming of mega-nuggets keeps hope alive even in the dark days of December. Writing about this subject makes me think that, as I sit by the fire in my woodstove one evening this week, I’ll get out my little gold nuggets to remind myself of longer days and outdoor activities we can look forward to in the New Year.

How much does it hurt?

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

When I take my elderly mother to the emergency room, the nurse asks how much pain she is in, on a scale of 1 to 10. There is a chart with pictures of little smiley faces, neutral faces, and grimacing faces to help a person — perhaps a child — determine a number. Pain management is an important part of human medicine.

Despite what the 17^th century philosopher and naturalist René Descartes said about animals being merely organic machines, it’s clear to me they feel pain in a manner similar to us. But we can’t ask Fido or Felix to tell us what they are experiencing. That point has been abundantly clear to me recently because my 11-year old mutt from the dog pound, Buster Brown, is having arthritic pain in several weight-bearing joints. He gets up from a lying position with difficulty, and he takes the stairs slowly and only when he must.

“In veterinary medicine, we have pain scales similar to what they use in the ER, but they are based on our observations,” Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth told me. Farnsworth instructs vet students at Washington State University’s veterinary teaching hospital.

Farnworth showed me a four-point scale with sketches of dogs in various positions and written descriptions of the way the dogs are behaving. Vet students are trained to assess animals and locate them on this type of pain scale.

“We go on what we can observe, our examination, and what the owners tell us about how the animal is behaving at home,” Farnsworth said.

Practicing veterinary medicine rather than the human variety has other challenges than assessing pain. Medications that are helpful to dogs are not all good for cats. Drugs good for people can kill an animal.

“You’ve got to check with your vet before you treat your animal for pain,” she said. “One thing your vet may discuss with you is pre-treating your animal, say before a big walk, if you know he’s likely to be sore afterward.”

The good news is that veterinarians now treat pain more aggressively in animals and there are also a wider variety of medications that are available to help.

“Many of the pain meds we use now were new or not available at all when I started practicing 21 years ago,” Farnsworth said.

Years ago, it was sometimes considered good to keep an animal in a moderate amount of pain after surgery, so the animal wouldn’t move around a lot and tear out stitches. But those days are long gone. Veterinarians treat pain aggressively now. That strikes me as more merciful.

Fortunately, the news from my household is good. Buster Brown has been taking an anti-inflammatory and two supplements in recent weeks and he is getting around much better. He goes by me at a canter when we are outside, he runs up and down the stairs, and he stands up from a lying position without the difficulty he was displaying earlier this fall. I’m greatly relieved — I like to think that pain isn’t bothering him nearly so much, and I hope I can keep him in the land of the living a good while longer.

The Art of the Brick® Debuts at Muskegon Museum of Art in February

Muskegon MI—Beginning February 19, 2014, the Muskegon Museum of Art will host The Art of the Brick®, an exhibition featuring large-scale sculptures created out of iconic LEGO® bricks by New York based artist Nathan Sawaya.

The exhibition has proved to be very popular with audiences as it has toured the globe. “This year alone, we’ve visited Ireland, South Africa, and Amsterdam,” said Sawaya. “We are thrilled to be bringing this collection to Muskegon.”

Yellow by artist Nathan Sawaya. Photo courtesy of brickartist.com.

Like most young kids, Sawaya started playing with LEGO at a young age. But unlike most kids, Sawaya never stopped building, creating and exploring his own imagination. The result has solidified his place in pop culture history and he is making an indelible mark on the art world as well. The award-winning artist has catapulted the iconic LEGO brick into an art medium all its own, transforming this construction toy into awe-inspiring and thought provoking sculptures. The centerpiece of Sawaya’s collection of sculptures, as well as arguably his most famous piece of artwork, is entitled Yellow, a LEGO torso of a man ripping open his chest while yellow plastic bricks cascade out of the open chest cavity. Sawaya has made a name for himself by creating out of LEGO exacting replicas of the human form in various states of emotion, including anger, love, depression and joy.

Concurrently on display at Muskegon Museum of Art for the run of the exhibition will be Sawaya’s unique multimedia collaboration with award-winning Australian photographer Dean West, entitled IN PIECES. The two artists spent years traveling and working together to blend their crafts resulting in the IN PIECES collection of visually stunning hyper realistic images that are exhibited with corresponding and complimentary three dimensional LEGO sculptures.

Strength of Spirit by artist Nathan Sawaya. Photo courtesy of brickartist.com

“I use LEGO bricks as my medium because I enjoy seeing people’s reactions to artwork created from something with which they are familiar. Everyone can relate to it since it is a toy that many children have at home. I want to elevate this simple plaything to a place that it has never been before. I want to elevate this simple plaything to a place it has never been before. I also appreciate the cleanliness of the medium. The right angles. The distinct lines. As so often in life, it is a matter of perspective. Up close, the shape of the brick is distinctive. But from a distance, those right angles and distinct lines change to curves,” Sawaya said.

The Art of the Brick will be on view at the Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, Michigan from February 19 through May 3, 2015. The public is invited to attend an opening reception on Thursday, February 19, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. Light refreshments will be served at the family-friendly event, which will be free and open to the public. The appearance of the exhibition in Muskegon is underwritten by Meijer. The accompanying activity gallery is sponsored by Hooker DeJong Architects & Engineers. Additional support is provided by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs with the National Endowment for the Arts.

About Nathan Sawaya
Nathan Sawaya is an acclaimed New York-based contemporary artist who creates awe-inspiring artwork out of a toy. His art focuses on large-scale sculptures using only LEGO® bricks. Sawaya was the first artist to ever take LEGO® into the art world and his touring exhibition – THE ART OF THE BRICK® – has entertained and inspired millions of art lovers and enthusiasts from Australia, Taiwan, Singapore, China and around the world. CNN heralded, “THE ART OF THE BRICK® is one of the top 12 must-see exhibits in the world!” Originally from Oregon, Sawaya’s childhood dreams were always fun and creative. He drew cartoons, wrote stories, perfected magic tricks and of course also played with LEGO®. His days were filled with imagination. When it came time for college, Sawaya moved to New York City, attended NYU and became a lawyer. But after years of million dollar mergers and corporate acquisitions on Park Avenue, Sawaya realized he would rather be sitting on the floor creating art, than sitting in a board room negotiating contracts. He walked away from the law and took an artistic risk on LEGO®. Now Sawaya is an author, speaker and one of the most popular, award-winning contemporary artists of our time. For more information about Nathan Sawaya and his artwork, visit www.brickartist.com.

About Dean West
Dean West is an acclaimed and award-winning photographer who specializes in highly conceptual and thought provoking contemporary portraiture. His body of work has been featured in top photography magazines and art galleries around the world. Born in Australia and currently living in Toronto, Dean has also been named “one of the world’s best emerging photographers” by After Capture Magazine and included in Saatchi & Saatchi’s collection of the world’s top 100 emerging photographers. See more of his work atwww.deanwest.com.

RELATED PROGRAMS

Interactive Building Area
Use The Art of the Brick as inspiration to engineer and build your own masterpiece using LEGO bricks. This educational area will have hands-on opportunities for all ages.
Sponsored by Hooker DeJong Architects & Engineers.

Thursday, February 19, 5:30 pm
Opening Reception
Get a first look at this popular, nationally touring exhibition of artwork created with LEGOS ® bricks. Light refreshments will be provided. The event is free and open to the public.

Saturdays: February 21, March 21, April 18
10:00 am–noon
Peer Exploration Workshop
Exploring LEGO Boundaries
Ages 10-13
FREE—Registration is required; spaces are limited.
Call 231.720.2571 to register.
This peer workshop will be led by the Mona Shores middle school 4-H Tech Wizards under the direction of Barbara Brow. This dynamic group of students has been working together, exploring the boundaries of LEGO construction and want to share their knowledge. The workshop is designed for kids who like to work organically and learn without boundaries. The Tech Wizards will break into groups to lead and explore with fellow students. To register: Call 231.720.2571.

Thursday, February 26, 12:15 pm
Brown Bag Film
The LEGO® Movie
(101 mins.) After being mistaken for the LEGO® Master Builder, ordinary mini-guy Emmet is swept up in an urgent quest to thwart the evil plans of Lord Business. Emmet’s adventures include daunting challenges and hilarious missteps in this computer-animated epic film. Film admission is free and so are the coffee and cookies. Guests are welcome to bring lunch. Exhibition viewing may require paid admission. Underwritten by MMA Education Partner, Alcoa Foundation/Howmet.

Thursdays
March 5, 19, 26 & April 9, 16
5:00–8:00 pm
FREE Admission Family Fun Nights
See The Art of the Brick and create your own sculpture in the interactive LEGO building area.
Family Fun Nights are underwritten by MMA Education Partner Alcoa Foundation/Howmet.

Saturday, March 14, 10:00 am–3:00 pm
Super Brick Art Saturday
FREE Family Fun Day with LEGO® Bricks
Toys turn into art! Check out the spectacularly engineered and innovative work of Nathan Sawaya in The Art of the Brick. After you get inspired, head downstairs to make your own sculptures and watch a film. It is sure to be a building and learning type of Saturday at the MMA

10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The LEGO Movie®
(101 mins.) Check out your favorite LEGO characters on the big screen in this exciting family friendly film.

11:00 am–1:00 pm
Guided Exhibition Tours
Join an MMA docent to explore The Art of the Brick.

11:00 am–2:00 pm
Make & Take
Push your creative bounds by building bricks up, down and across. Make a block sculpture to take home.

Monday–Thursday, March 30–April 2,
5:30–7:00 pm
Class: Robotics with LEGO Bricks
Instructor: Kathleen Steudle-Schwander
Ages 10-13 | limited spaces
Cost: $60 non-member | $50 member

Students will learn the joys of building and programming robots with LEGO bricks while working with and against each other to complete various missions. There is no greater adventure then that of the imagination and the sky is the limit with this class. Students will be challenged to solve problems in new ways and to come to the understanding that there are multiple ways to complete the same task. Participants will learn to use special computer software specifically made for crafting LEGO brick robotics. To register: Call 231.720.2571 by March 23.

Computers provided courtesy of the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District.

VISITOR INFORMATION
The Muskegon Museum of Art is located at 296 W. Webster Ave. in downtown Muskegon. Call 231-720-2570 or visitwww.muskegonartmuseum.org for information.

DAILY ADMISSION
$8 Adult | $5 Adult Student (with I.D.) | $3 Ages 3-17
Free for MMA Members

Free Family Fun Night Admission for everyone
Thursdays 5:00-8:00 pm ONLY
Compliments of MEIJER

HOURS
SUN noon-4:30pm/MON & TUES closed/WED, FRI, SAT 10am-4:30pm/THURS 10am-8pm