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Ottawa County Parks – Winter Programs

Winter Programs

Our program schedule does not slow down in the winter months! This season we are offering winter walks and snowshoe hikes, cross-country and skate ski lessons, Wildlife Encounters, Coffee with the Birds, art and astronomy classes, birding field trips and more!

See the full program calendar by clicking here.

As always, we are committed to keeping our programs free or affordable. You’ll find programs for children, adults, and families.

Featured Event

ICE FISHING! 

Feb 4, 9 am-1 pm • Location TBA

(Alternate date is Feb 11)

Registration encouraged

This free event is geared for children of all ages, accompanied by an adult. More details will follow. Registration is not required but is encouraged in case the event is moved to the alternate date.

This event is generously hosted by the Friends of Ottawa County Parks. Friends invites you to join the all volunteer organization! Through a multitude of activities and outreach events, they promote and assist the Parks. Join in their endeavor, enjoy the fellowship, and make new friends while helping support the Parks. 

Winter Wonderland

Popular destinations, equipment to rent

Pigeon Creek County Park offers groomed, lit cross-country ski trails, ski and snowshoe rentals, ski lessons, and sledding. The lodge opens for the season once a good base of snow has fallen. Visitors can rent skis and snowshoes as well as warm up with hot chocolate, hot dogs, or chili by the fire. Hours rely on the weather, so keep the hotline number handy. Visit our website for more information: miOttawa.org/Parks. Please remember that once snow falls, hiking, dog walking, and horseback riding are not allowed in the park.

pigeon creek

Hemlock Crossing County Park offers snowshoe rentals for adults and children (4+) at the Nature Education Center. Guided walks are available throughout the winter; take a look at our program calendar for dates. Visitors are invited to warm up in front of a fire in the Great Room after their snowy outing!

Where to explore

Pigeon Creek and Hemlock Crossing are excellent winter destinations, especially if you need equipment, but there are many other beautiful places to enjoy and explore. Below are some of our favorites.

Infrequently, we pack and roll trails at parks other than Pigeon Creek. Keep an eye on Facebook for these announcements. 

other places to explore

>> Crockery Creek Natural Area in Nunica is a hidden gem, offering gorgeous winterscapes. Photo by Ed Post

>> Riley Trails in Holland is popular for cross-country skiing. The mountain bike trails are often used for fat tire biking. Photo by Instagrammer @bwcycling

>> In the Grand Haven area, North Ottawa Dunes has many miles of trail frequented by cross-country skiers.

>> Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland is a great place for a ski or snowshoe outing, or a winter hike!

View a pdf of the newsletter by clicking here

Holiday Tips For Dealing With Alzheimer’s

For those who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, the thought of holiday get-togethers with family and friends may leave you feeling exhausted, anxious, or just plain overwhelmed. And while it can be a challenging time of year, with some planning and adjusted expectations, your celebrations can still be happy, memorable occasions.

According to data just released in the 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, in Michigan, one in eight of those aged 45 and over report they are experiencing confusion or memory loss that is happening more often or is getting worse. For those with worsening memory problems, 45.5 percent say it created functional difficulties, such as causing them to give up day-to-day, work or social activities. With Alzheimer’s disease becoming more common, it is more likely that someone with Alzheimer’s disease will be in attendance at your holiday gathering and it is important to be prepared.

Here are our top tips for surviving the holiday season with loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia:

1. Let guests know what to expect before they arrive. Sending a letter or email in advance, letting people know about what to expect and how they can help will ease some of the burden when guests arrive. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, family can help with communication by being patient, not interrupting or correcting, and giving the person time to finish his or her thoughts. In the middle or late stages, make sure visitors understand that changes in behavior and memory are caused by the disease and not the person. For ideas on how to let others know about changes in your loved one, join ALZConnected, our online support community, where caregivers share tips on what has worked for them.

2. Pare down your responsibilities. The stress of caregiving layered with holiday traditions can take a toll. Give yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably manage. If you’ve always invited 15 to 20 people to your home, consider paring it down to a few guests for a simple meal. Let others contribute. Have a potluck dinner or ask them to host at their home. You also may want to consider breaking large gatherings up into smaller visits of two or three people at a time to keep the person with Alzheimer’s and yourself from getting overtired. Make sure everyone understands your situation and has realistic expectations about what you can do.

3. Avoid triggers. If evening confusion and agitation are a problem, consider changing a holiday dinner into a holiday lunch. If you do keep the celebration at night, keep the room well-lit. Make sure that you’re careful with decoration choices — blinking lights may confuse or scare a person with dementia, and decorations that look like food could be mistaken as edible. Sticking to the person’s normal routine will also help keep the holidays from becoming disruptive or confusing. Plan time for breaks and rest.

4. Keep the person involved. Focus on activities that are meaningful to the person with dementia. They may find comfort in singing old holiday songs or looking through old photo albums. As the person’s abilities allow, invite them to help you prepare food, wrap packages, help decorate or set the table. This could be as simple as having the person measure an ingredient or hand decorations to you as you put them up.

5. Look for helpful gifts. Diminishing capacity may make some gifts unusable or even dangerous to a person with dementia. If someone asks for gift ideas, suggest items the person with dementia needs or can easily enjoy. Ideas include: an identification bracelet, comfortable clothing, their favorite music, videos and photo albums.

6. Bring the celebration to a care facility. A holiday is still a holiday whether it is celebrated at home or at a care facility. If your loved one isn’t able to celebrate at home, consider joining your loved one in any facility-planned holiday activities. Bring a favorite holiday food to share. Sing holiday songs and ask if other residents can join in, or read a favorite holiday story or poem out loud.

To learn more ways to make the holidays peaceful and joyous with a loved one with dementia, visit www.alz.org, or call our 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900.

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

A 13th Letter to America

The Presidential Election is finally over!

However, the demonstrations that are occurring shows how poorly a job our school systems and our news media is doing.  Acceptance, after the people have spoken, has always been the norm, and should still be the norm.

Another norm, is respect for other people, their rights, and their property.

All that is violated when crowds take over streets and highways and start destroying government or personal property.  That is criminal conduct punishable by law.

Some demonstrators, and news media people, claim they are afraid of Trump. But if they supported his opponent, they should instead fear God.  She stood for some things God calls abomination.

You see, His Laws are just, but the penalty for disobeying Him, will be eternal damnation. First in Hell and later in the Lake of Fire forever.

The Word of God, rightfully claims, that all of us have sinned.  That we are condemned already.  But because of His great love for us he sent Jesus Christ, his only begotten son, to die for us on the cross.  His precious blood is enough to cover all the sins of the world.

Unfortunately, too many in America, and too many in the world, refuse to believe in God and The Word of God (Jesus).  Jesus said few will go to Heaven.  Seek God, believe and repent. Why reject God!

President Trump’s first official act should be to order all flags be flown at half-mast until this country stops the ungodly killing of the innocent unborn.

Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
Coalgate, Ok 74538

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 11/28/16-12/05/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hands on a Hardbody
Through December 4
November 18 – December 4, Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you to the Beardsley Theater for “Hands on a Hardbody!”  Inspired by true events, and infused with a “fresh roots-rock vibe,” this is the hilarious musical about a hard-fought contest in which only one winner can drive away with the American Dream.  Ten contestants are determined to endure four sleepless days in the Texas heat for a chance to win a brand-new Nissan hardbody truck.  All they have to do is fight to keep at least one hand on the truck and they will drive it away.  Last one standing wins!

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

Ornament Extravaganza
Through December 24 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Now through Christmas, you are invited to the Red Lotus Gallery/Muskegon Center for the Arts for their Ornament Extravaganza!  Christmas ornaments have been created by local artists and will be available during the months of November and December.  They make wonderful Christmas gifts.  For more information, call 231-206-0426.

USS Silversides November Lecture Series
November 28 @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings, November 14 – 21 at 6:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s November Lecture Series!  The cost is $5, or free for museum members.
–November 28:  WWII Through the Eyes of a Tank Commander presented by Clyde Rinsema
Retrace the steps of Clyde’s father Sgt. George Rinsema through the European Theater of the war from D-Day through the many battles and ending at the Elbe River in Germany in 1945.  The presentation will include quotes from letters sent home, video and photographs from WWII as well as anecdotes and comments made by Germans 50 years after the war when George & Clyde revisited the combat route taken during his time in the war.

Mystery of the Christmas Star
Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
Investigate the signs that led the Wise Men to travel to Bethlehem in “Mystery of the Christmas Star” at Muskegon Community College’s Carr-Fles Planetarium!  No reservations are needed for this free, 35-minute program, which includes a brief lecture on the current sky conditions,as projected on the planetarium dome.  Runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00pm November 1-December 1.  The doors open at 6:45pm.  There will be no show on Thanksgiving.  Call (231) 777-0289 for more information.

Jilly’s Jewelry Workshop
November 30 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
November 30 from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, you’re invited to the Lakeshore Museum Center for Jilly’s Jewelry Workshop!  Learn the steps to making your own piece of glass art jewelry from glass artist, Jilly Barnes. Design and put together your piece and then Jilly will fire it in her oven and return it to the museum for you to pick-up. Jilly is the owner of Jilly’s Gallery in Pentwater and the 2014 2nd Place Winner of 3D Category for public voting at Art Prize.  The cost is $40 and is due prior to the workshop. Call 231-722-0278 to register.

“Once Upon a Time…Stories of the Season”
November 30 @ 7:30 pm – December 3 @ 9:00 pm
“Once Upon a Time…Stories of the Season” will be presented by Muskegon Community College’s Center for Theater with 7:30pm performances Wednesday- Saturday, November 30-December 3 in the Overbrook Theater.  Tickets go on sale Monday, November 21 at the Overbrook Theater Box Office.  Tickets are $10 for the public and $5 for MCC students, staff, and faculty.  For more information or to reserve tickets, call (231) 777-0234.
Featured stories include:
• “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg;
• “The Origin of the Candy Cane” by Lori Walburg and adapted by Kendra Irvine;
• “Hanukkah v. Christmas” by Adrianne Lewis and adapted from Dr. Steve Sultanoff:
• “A Christmas Apart” by Leona Perigard; “The Little Match Girl” by Hans Christian Andersen;
• “How Maui Snared the Sun,” a traditional story as told by Carolyn McVickar Edwards and adapted by Tom Harryman and ensemble;
• “Der Belznickel.” a traditional story as told by S.E. Schlosser and adapted by Sylvia DeBruyn; and
• “Angels in Cincinnati,” “Black Friday Blitz,” and “Mistletoe” written by MCC students Mark Lewis, Aaron Ponce, and Shayne Miller.

“Visit Muskegon” Logo Contest
December 1, 2016 – January 6, 2017
The Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau is rebranding as “Visit Muskegon.”  We are looking for a new visual identity and need your help!   We are seeking anyone who can design a creative, innovative, and professional logo design. See this link for details:

Visit Muskegon Logo Contest

 

 

Open Public Tours at the Muskegon Museum of Art
Thursdays, December 1- February 16 @ 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Enjoy free docent-led guided tours at the Muskegon Museum of Art on Thursdays, December 1 – February 16 from 5:00-7:00pm!  www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Mona Shores Singing Christmas Tree
December 1 @ 7:00 pm – December 3 @ 7:00 pm
This Muskegon area event has become a rich tradition for families near and far as a way of kicking off their holiday and getting into the spirit of the season. With their debuts on THE TRAVEL CHANNEL and THE LEARNING CHANNEL, as well as their 2013 Excellence in Education Award, sponsored by the Michigan Association of School Boards, their popularity has spread and large crowds are again expected at the Frauenthal Center December 1-3 at 7:00pm each night with a 3:00pm matinee Saturday as well.

With its 25,000 colored lights that coordinate to the beautiful singing, 15 tiers that reach 67 feet up into the majestic Frauenthal Center, over 280 singers, and accompanied by the 50 piece Mona Shores High School Orchestra, the Singing Christmas Tree must be seen to be believed.  For more information, visit www.monashoressingingchristmastree.com.

First Friday Fan Fundraiser
December 2 @ 7:00 pm
Friday, December 2 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the First Friday Fan Fundraiser!  The first Friday of the month, they feature a celebrity bartender and encourage their fans to show up and raise money.  Tips and 20% of all proceeds will benefit the charity of their choice.  This month’s celebrity bartenders are Rich Houtteman & Bob Carter.  Proceeds will support United Way of the Lakeshore, specifially the education programs in White Lake, including Lights On After School and The Dolly Parton Imagination Library.  There’ll be live music by Sherri Casey and the dinner special will be beef stew for only $6.50.  For more information call 231-894-5333.

Holidays in Lakeside
December 3 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Get in the spirit of the season with “Holidays in Lakeside”, a fun family event featuring visits with Santa, sleigh rides, a gift basket raffle, ice sculpting demonstrations, merchant sales & specials and a free movie at the Harbor Cinema.  It’s happening December 3 from 11:00am-5:00pm in the Lakeside District, with the lighting of the Pocket Park tree on Friday, December 2 at 6:30pm.  For more information, visit www.lakesidedistrict.com.
–Santa Claus at Harbor Cinema 11:00am-2:00pm
–Community Bake Sale at Lakeside Center 11:00am-3:00pm
–Sleigh Rids 11:00am-2:00pm
–Holiday Movie “Home Alone” at Harbor Theater 3:00pm

64th Annual White Lake Christmas Parade
December 3 @ 12:00 am
Saturday December 3 over 80 participants will line up and follow the parade route from Whitehall to Montague along Business 31/Colby Street._ The American Legion and VFW will lead the event along with the proud Christmas Parade sponsor. The parade begins at two o’clock in the afternoon. Both Montague and Whitehall High School’s marching bands will be stepping out joined by area scout troops!_ As the Grand Finale Santa will make his entrance with a horse drawn carriage. He will be eager to see children of all ages following the parade at his house outside Montague City Hall located on Ferry St. For more information visit whitelake.org.

Beginning Baking for Kids: Christmas Cookies and Candies with Chef Char
December 3 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Saturday, December 3rd – Beginning Baking for Kids: Christmas Cookies and Candies with Chef Char 9:00 – 11:00 am. The holidays are a time for baking and gift giving. Learn some of Chef Char’s favorite holiday recipes, including impressive homemade cookies, fudge and chocolate candies. Make, bake and decorate your treats in class to take home or to give as gifts.

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

Holiday Tours of the Hackley and Hume Historic Site
December 3 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Visitors will have an opportunity to tour the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons decorated to celebrate the holiday season!  Holiday tours of the Hackley & Hume Historic Site will begin on Saturday, November 26, with special activities including horse drawn-wagon rides from the Site to Hackley Park for the city’s lighting of the Christmas tree.  A tent will fill the courtyard between the two houses where visitors can listen to Christmas carolers, sip hot chocolate, and decorate cookies.

Tours begin in the Hackley house where a tree in the bay window of the Reception Hall greets visitors as they embark on their journey through the homes built in the late 1800s. The holidays are also being celebrated across the courtyard in the Hume family home. A tree decorated using a family photo as a guide is always popular with visitors. The tours are walk-through style with guides placed throughout the houses to answer questions.

The groups decorating the two houses this year include Delta Kappa Gamma, Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon’s Woman’s Club, Shoreline Victorian Ladies Society, Muskegon County Medical Society Alliance, Helen and Elizabeth Sherman, Minerva Dill Questers, Lakeshore Animal Hospital, Barb Lloyd and Jane Arndt, and the Interpretive Staff of the Historic Sites.

Tours will continue November 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm, December 3 from Noon to 5:00pm, Monday, December 26 from 4:00 – 8:00pm and Tuesday, December 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm.  Tours are $7 for adults and teens, $5 for age 65 and older, and free for visitors 12 and younger.  www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Humane Society Fundraiser
December 3 @ 4:00 pm
Saturday, December 3, Hitching Post Events is hosting a night of dinner, comedy, music and auctions where all the proceeds will benefit The Muskegon Humane Society!  This will be perfect for your company Christmas party or a fun date night!  Adoptable animals will be on site from 4:00pm-5:30pm, then it’s a Dinner buffet at 6:30pm and Comedians start at 8:00pm.  There’ll also be live auctions and a cash bar.  Tickets are available now and can be purchased at The Hitching post or The Muskegon Humane Society.

Single Tickets: $35
Reserve an entire table for your family or business (8 seats): $240

For ticket sales or general questions please contact:
The Muskegon Humane Society
2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442
231-773-8689

Circle of Trees
December 4
The Circle of Trees is held on the first Sunday in December.  Trees are decorated in Walker Park, the annual “Dog Parade” is held on Ruddiman Ave. and the tree lighting ceremony, refreshments and visits with Santa follow immediately after.  If you wish to participate or for more information, contact City Clerk Marcia Jeske at 231-744-1621 or by e-mail mjeske@cityofnorthmuskegon.com.

 

 

Non-Profit Organization Looking for Community Members to Join our International Team

Fall 2016 – Spring 2017

ASSE International Student Exchange Program (ASSE) is seeking representatives to work with volunteer host families and international exchange students in your community. ASSE provides academic year and semester exchange programs in the United States for high school students from around the world. Students are 15 to 18 years of age, have passed a series of academic and character requirements and are awaiting an opportunity to embark on their American adventure. Local Representatives also have the opportunity to support American high school students in their journey abroad.

Area Representatives recruit and screen prospective host families, supervise the exchange students in their community throughout the year, and interview American students who wish to live and learn abroad. Area Representatives are compensated based on the number of students they are supervising.

ASSE’s primary goal is to contribute to international understanding by enabling students to learn about other languages and cultures through active participation in family, school and community life. Through sharing their home, host families and communities also gain new knowledge and appreciation of other cultures and languages. ASSE’s Area Representatives are the cornerstone of the organization, making all of this possible!

For more information about ASSE or becoming an Area Representative, please call the Eastern Regional Office at 1-800-677-2773, email us at asseusaeast@asse.com or go to host.asse.com to learn more. We look forward to welcoming you to the ranks of Area Representatives nationwide – striving towards a world of understanding, one child at a time!

Thanks from the Mission for Area People

Thank You!!
Thanks to all who support Mission for Area People in many different ways!

Special Thanks to Senator Hansen for his annual pig donation for our food pantry. For the past few years Senator Hansen has been helping the MAP food pantry by purchasing a pig and having it packaged for our pantry. Thank you Senator Geoff Hansen for thinking of Mission for Area People as we continued to provide for community neighbors in need.

Thank you to the Sister Simone Courtade Fund for the generous gift for our Medical Support as well as our Healthy Choice Food Pantry. The support from these gifts will help provide necessary emergency medical needs as well as healthy food choices for our pantry.

Thank you United Way of the Lakeshore Day of Caring for orchestrating hundreds of volunteers from all over who give their time and talents to 10 local non‐profits in our community, Mission for Area People being one of them. Thank you team leader Corey Watson for all your hard work.

Thank you Chris from CC Carpet for donating the carpet for our lobby and stairway.

Thank you Roy from Port City for donating 5 gallons of paint for our lobby.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who made the Day of Caring a special event. Your support of Mission for Area People is very much appreciated.

map-christmas-needs

Candidate Bio: Paula Baker Mathes

Candidate for Muskegon District Court Judge

Paula-Baker-MathesPaula Baker Mathes has been a lawyer for more than 22 years.   She graduated from Tulane University in 1990 and Cooley Law School with honors in 1993.  Most of her career has been as a trial lawyer.  She has been in private practice, a prosecutor, and a defense attorney.  She currently works in Muskegon County’s Public Defender Office.

“Having represented clients from both sides of the courtroom, I understand the issues and the lasting impact the decisions by the Court have on people and their families.  As a judge, I would ensure fair, impartial and just consideration to all those who would come before me on the bench.”

Candidate Bio: Holly Hughes

Candidate for State Rep. – 91st District                          

I am running for re-election because our hometown and hard-working taxpayers deserve an effective Representative that gets things done. I will stay focused on jobs and the economy.  As the author of over 15 new laws, I have helped people all across our county to cut through bureaucratic red tape and advocate for common sense West Michigan solutions. I have worked closely with our county’s educators to make sure they have the resources to provide a world-class education to our kids, and I have fought for our veterans because they have always fought for our freedoms. I ask for your support so that our hometown values continue to have a voice in Lansing!

Family: My husband Rick and I have two daughters, Morgan and Taylor and Son-in-law Jonah.

Education: Michigan State University – 1981 B.A. Business

Offices Held:
– State Rep. – 91st District 2011-2012 & 2015 to Present (2 terms)
– White River Twp. Trustee – 1996-2008 (3 terms)
– American Hometown Leadership Award – 1999 Received from National Assn. of Towns and Townships Association. Nominated by my fellow White River Twp. board members for channel restoration project and development of life ring alarm system (first in the nation.)
– Montague Area Public School Board
– MUSTFA Board – Appointed by Gov. John Engler
– Muskegon Local Emergency Planning Commission (LEPC) – Former Board Member

For more information go to: http://www.hollyhughes.com

Candidate Bio: Justice David F. Viviano

Candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court

justice-david-vivianoDavid Viviano was appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court in 2013 and elected to complete his term in 2014. He is the Supreme Court’s point person for judicial training and e-filing.

Justice Viviano previously served as Chief Judge of Macomb County, where he led one of the largest trial courts in Michigan. He was elected to the Circuit Court in 2006 and again in 2012.

Justice Viviano has worked to reform Michigan’s jury system and implement new technologies – such as e-filing and videoconferencing – to help courts operate more safely and efficiently.

Before becoming a judge, Justice Viviano worked at two nationally-recognized law firms before starting his own firm.

Justice Viviano graduated from Hillsdale College and the University of Michigan Law School.

He and his wife live in Sterling Heights with their four children.

Candidate Bio: Brooke Slagle-Moore

Democratic Candidate Fruitport Township Clerk

brooke-slagle-moore

VOTE FOR BROOKE

“Dear Neighbors, First and foremost, I adore where I live and the Fruitport Community. I know I would love being your clerk. It is my passion; I have been working with West Michigan’s Clerks for over 12 years. You can be confident of my knowledge, fiscal-mindedness and belief that government is best run by the people it serves. I believe in working hard and am eager to be involved in the improvement of the quality of life for my Fruitport Neighbors. Let’s work together!”

Please Vote November 8! Brooke Slagle-Moore, Democratic Candidate Fruitport Township Clerk.  The candidate with CLERK experience.

 

 

• Endorsed by Carol Hulka, current Fruitport Township Clerk of 24 years.
• Over 12 years Clerk experience with Ottawa County Clerk’s Office and currently Deputy Clerk at Moorland Township, Muskegon County.
• Accredited with all state-required training for election administration.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Associate’s in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship from Baker College of Muskegon.

Visit www.facebook.com/Brooke4Clerk for more information.

Michigan’s New Laws regarding Abortion

In a newsletter from Right to Life of Michigan, President Barbara Listing explains one of the hurdles involved in promoting the truth of the abortion issue. “Those who provide, perform and/or promote  abortion-on-demand…spend all their time and energy ‘whitewashing’ the truth. I see it happen every single day. For 43 years now, we have been eyewitnesses to a massive cover-up deliberately designed to mislead our fellow citizens.”

She mentions “the role that compassion plays in the abortion debate,” and that “proponents of abortion are always talking about their love and concern for women. With their bucket of whitewash in hand, they paint the abortion issue with meaningless words and expressions of compassion. Words like ‘protection,’ ‘rights,’ ‘respect,’ ‘health care,’ and ‘choice.’ All whitewash!”

She sites a contemporary example, from right here in Michigan, that prove the point that these people have an ulterior motive: the recent “Coercive Abortion Prevention Act (CAPA).” Listing believes that this bill “should have the support of anyone who is concerned with the health and well being of women.”

According to the Right to Life of Michigan website, the law is described as follows:

Coercive Abortion Prevention Act (CAPA)
“Research confirms that a substantial number of women feel forced by boyfriends, spouses, parents and others to have an abortion against their will. Women are coerced through threats of physical violence, withdrawal of financial support, loss of housing and violation of employment contracts or other legal agreements. Furthermore, numerous studies have confirmed that women presenting for their second or more abortion are substantially more likely to be suffering domestic violence.” 

“H.B. 4787 adds to Michigan’s current anti-extortion/coercion provisions by including coercion to abort as a specific crime. It will be illegal to coerce a woman to abort by threatening or actually committing the following actions: physical assault, withdrawing financial support, or terminating or otherwise violating a legal contract, destroying or concealing a passport or other identification, and threats to deport or arrest.” 

“H.B. 4830 establishes penalties commensurate with the seriousness of the prohibited action. Physical assault and stalking carry more severe penalties, while withdrawal of financial support or violation of a legal contract will be punishable by stiff fines.”

According to Listing, this law faced opposition from people in the “pro-choice” community. She addressed their opposition in the newsletter:

“Who in the world would ever oppose a bill that would provide legal protection to a woman who is being forced to abort? Forced! Where are all the people who support ‘choice’? What choice does a woman have when she’s being threatened? What choice does a woman have when all her options are being stripped away? So where are all these ‘compassionate’ advocates for women? Are they co-sponsoring the bill? No, they’re too busy whitewashing to show up in Lansing in support of women at risk.”

Listing asserts that there are “dozens of well-funded pro-abortion organizations, federal and state agencies, health care organizations, academia and elected officials from both parties. There are even denominations, theologians and pastors who will whitewash to protect abortion-on-demand.” She believes, “that’s why you and I are so important. We are like turpentine to a whitewashed argument. Through prayer and hard work, we are able to cut through the lies and deceptions to expose the truth.”

Another recent law, the “Rape Survivor Child Custody Act”, seemed to receive much wider support in Michigan. This law is described on the Right to Life of Michigan website as:

Rape Survivor Child Custody Act
“This bill would allow a rape survivor who becomes pregnant from assault to petition the family court to terminate the parental custody and parenting time (aka ‘visitation’) of her assailant under a ‘clear and convincing’ evidence standard and without the necessity of a criminal conviction. Current law provides for the termination of parental rights of a man who impregnates a woman via sexual assault if he is convicted of felony rape. Unfortunately, felony rape convictions are difficult to obtain and require a legal standard of ‘beyond a reasonable doubt.’ This bill would make the standard for termination of custody and parenting time the same as for those who abuse or neglect their child.”

Nationally, there was legislation originally introduced in 2013 in the House of Representatives as H.R. 2772, reintroduced recently as H. R. 1257, to provide funding incentives “to States that have in place laws that terminate the parental rights of men who father children through rape.”

According to the website congress.gov, this “Rape Survivor Child Custody Act”:
“Directs the Attorney General to make grants to states that have in place a law that allows the mother of any child that was conceived through rape to seek court-ordered termination of the parental rights of her rapist with regard to that child, which the court shall grant upon clear and convincing evidence of rape.”

“Limits such a grant to: (1) an amount that is not greater than 10% of the average of the total funding of the three most recent awards a state received under the STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program and the Sexual Assault Services Program; and (2) a one-year term, subject to renewal for not more than three additional years.”

“Requires a state that receives such a grant to use: (1) 25% of grant funds for permissible uses under the STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program, and (2) 75% of funds for permissible uses under the Sexual Assault Services Program.”

You can find out more information about these Michigan laws, and download PDF versions of the documents through the Michigan Legislature website, www.legislature.mi.gov, and Right to Life of Michigan at: www.RTL.org

READ MORE:
http://www.rtl.org/legislation/prolifelaws.html
http://www.rtl.org/legislation/PendingLegislation/CAPA.html
http://www.rtl.org/legislation/PendingLegislation/RapeSurvivorChildCustody.html

http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/09/abortion_coercion_bill_advance.html

http://www.lifenews.com/2016/06/02/aclu-wants-michigan-governor-to-veto-bill-against-coercing-women-into-having-an-abortion/

http://www.lifenews.com/2016/05/04/new-law-stops-rapists-from-getting-custody-of-child-when-a-raped-woman-rejects-abortion/

https://thinkprogress.org/lawmakers-propose-bill-to-prevent-rapists-from-claiming-child-custody-94c607be11ad#.kc9379438

https://www.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/2772/all-info

https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1257/all-info

Ask Dr. Universe – Why We Feel Pain

Why do we feel pain? -Sara, 11, Moscow, Idaho
Dear Sara,

Pain is unpleasant, but we need it for survival. Just the other day I was out exploring when I stubbed my paw and let out a big meow. My nervous system was doing its job.

Part of the reason we feel pain is because our bodies have tons of nerves that help us move, think, and feel in all kinds of ways.

When you stub your paw or toe, for example, the nerves in the skin of your toe will send a message to your brain that you are in pain. These messages are what scientists call impulses. They start in your toe, move to your spinal cord, then your brainstem, and onto your brain.

It’s actually your brain that tells you that you’re in pain. And if you’ve ever stubbed your toe, you know this message gets delivered pretty fast. In fact, when you feel pain, sometimes the impulse, or message, will travel at 250 mph. That’s the speed of a very fast racecar.

It’s important for the message to move fast because you have to make a quick decision about what to do. Sometimes your decision might be a matter of survival—but other times it might be as simple as deciding if you need a bandage, ice pack, or even a trip to the doctor.

Pain is actually the number one reason people see a doctor, said my friend Raymond Quock. He’s a scientist here at Washington State University who is really curious about pain.

“Pain in many aspects is good,” Quock said. “It’s a warning that your body is in danger.”
Most humans can feel pain, but not all humans, he said. Because of genetics or nerve injury, some people can’t feel pain.

Imagine touching a hot pan and not realizing it just came out of the oven. Or imagine if you broke your leg, but didn’t know it. And while that might sound pretty nice, it can also be quite dangerous.

If you didn’t feel pain, you might end up with even more damage to your body. Pain helps tell us when to take extra care of ourselves.
People have different kinds of pain, too. There’s physical pain, emotional pain—even growing pains. The kind of pain Quock studies is called chronic pain. Unlike acute pain, like stubbing your toe, chronic pain is pain that hurts and aches for months or longer.

This kind of pain doesn’t appear to have a very useful purpose. It doesn’t help much with survival. Quock and his team of WSU researchers are investigating why it happens and how to treat it. They are working on some great ideas about how to help patients feel better.

While some pain doesn’t seem to have a purpose, pain definitely does keep us safe in a lot of other potentially dangerous situations. Our nerves help us sense the world around us so we can explore. They can also help remind us to watch where we step next time.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Why Onions Cause Us to Cry

Why does onion cause you to cry? –Kera, 5, Lawrenceville, GA

Dear Kera,

Try as we might, it’s hard to hold back tears while chopping up onions.

My friend Lindsey du Toit knows the feeling. She’s a scientist at Washington State University and works with lots of onions. Her research helps farmers grow good vegetables for us to eat.

“It’s not the onion itself that makes us cry,” she explained, “but a chemical reaction that starts when you cut into it.”

I wondered how exactly this chemical reaction worked. To find out, we set up a microscope in her lab and chopped up a Walla Walla sweet onion. I wiped a few tears from my cheek and slid a tiny piece of onion under the lens.

Under the microscope’s light, we could see rows of onion cells next to each other. Just like you and me, onions are made up of cells.

An onion sitting on the kitchen counter is pretty harmless because its cells are still together. But when we cut up an onion, we also cut up a bunch of the cells. This is where the chemical reaction begins.

Cutting the onion breaks open different parts in the cell and releases chemicals into the air. Some of these important chemicals contain sulfur.

“As the plants grow, they take up sulfur from the soil,” du Toit said. “It’s good for growing onions.”

This sulfur is important for the flavor, too. But some of the chemicals in onions that contain the sulfur also have the side effect of making us cry.

“It’s a sacrifice we pay for good-flavored onions,” du Toit adds.

The onion cells also contain parts called enzymes. It is the job of these enzymes to help chemical reactions happen. In the onion, the enzymes help convert the sulfur into a kind of acid.

This acid rearranges itself to form a new kind of chemical: syn-propanethial-S-oxide. It’s a bit of a tongue twister. It’s also a tearjerker.

When the chemical drifts up and meets the moisture in our eyeballs, it turns to sulfuric acid. Our eyes have many nerves and can sense that something unusual is happening—and that something is stinging.

Tear-producing glands in our eyes, called lachrymal glands, receive the message.

du Toit explained that an onion with more sulfur is often likely to produce more tears. For example, Walla Walla sweets are sweeter and don’t take up as much sulfur from the soil. They likely won’t provoke as many tears as some other onions might.

People have tried quite a few techniques to try to avoid crying when they chop onions. Some put onions in the fridge before cutting them to slow the chemical reaction. Others cut their onions under cold water to slow the chemical reactions with the sulfur compounds.

Chemical reactions often happen more slowly in cold conditions. So the idea is that cooling onions in the fridge before cutting them means that the sulfur chemicals are converted more slowly into the acid that reacts with your eyes —helping you chop more onions and slowing the waterworks.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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

Who’s Life Matters?

Earlier this year, a tragic event occurred at the Cincinnati Zoo. A 3-year old boy somehow managed to wander into the gorilla exhibit, past the protective perimeter that separates visitors from the exhibit, as well as other protective measures. He fell 10 to 15 feet into the enclosure’s protective moat.

Of  the 3 gorillas in the exhibit, 2 responded to the calls of zoo officials and retreated, while the large male gorilla, “Harambe”, advanced toward the child, eventually grabbed him, and dragged him around the enclosure.

A special team at the zoo responded to the situation by shooting the gorilla and killing it. The little boy was rushed to the hospital and found to have only received a concussion and minor injuries.

The media response to this event seemed to focus more on the killing of the gorilla than the saving of this young boy’s life. In the July 2016 issue of the Right to Life of Michigan newsletter, President Barbara Listing discussed how the reaction to this tragic story troubles her, “One news account even insinuated that Harambe was “murdered.”  I may be old school, but I didn’t  know that you could “murder” an animal.  I thought that term was reserved for humans only.”

“In addition,” Listing states, “this story completely upstaged Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe. The story also overshadowed the fact that 69  people were shot in Chicago over the same weekend ending the deadliest  May in that city in 21 years!”

“There were candlelight vigils. No, not for veterans. No, not for the children shot in Chicago – for Harambe. There were memorial services. Flowers and cards left at a gorilla statue. Protests. Even an online petition that collected more than 400,000 signatures.  But it didn’t  stop there.”

“A surprising number of people actually thought it was worth risking the little boy’s life in order to save the gorilla.” Listing goes on to give some graphic examples of people’s responses on social media, then wraps up her reaction, summarizing, “Social media was on fire! Many people were very blunt, if not crude. This incident should have been settled by “survival of the fittest.” If the kid got torn apart limb from limb, so be it.”

Where are our priorities in 21st century America?

Listing believes that this story clearly illustrates why the work of Right to Life is so vitally important, “Every day we must remain steadfast as we promote the sanctity of human life. The value of the human person, young and old, is under relentless assault. We need to stand tall and hold the line no matter the circumstance.”

She concludes, “I’m sad that this gorilla had to be shot. But I’m even more thankful that the little boy is okay. I urge the Cincinnati Zoo to fix the inadequate fence. My heart goes out to this mother and her family. I am especially praying for this three-year-old little boy. God, please get a hold of his life. With this level of determination, he could be a real world changer!”

Above all else, She’s more committed than ever to “promote the value and the sanctity of every human life,” and is very thankful to have likeminded friends and supporters by her side!

Please visit www.RTL.org for more information.

Muskegon Rotary Club’s 13Th Annual Grape Escape

MUSKEGON ROTARY CLUB’S 13TH ANNUAL GRAPE ESCAPE SUPPORTS COMMUNITY CHARITIES
September 21 Event Helps Fund Muskegon Area Promise and local Rotary Projects

MUSKEGON, MI – The Muskegon Rotary Club’s 13th Annual Grape Escape – the region’s premier wine, craft beer, and food tasting event – is scheduled for Wednesday, September 21, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. and is returning to the Bella Maria’s Ristorante and Event Center, 513 W. Pontaluna Road in Norton Shores, Michigan. This newly remodeled facility, located at the Oak Ridge Golf Club, offers an expanded location for the Muskegon Rotary Club’s largest annual event.

This year’s non-profit partner is Muskegon Area Promise, and proceeds from the event will support the Promise. The Muskegon Area Promise unprecedented commitment to the young people of our community, guaranteeing that if they work hard they will be able to earn at least a two-year college degree tuition-free. Scholarships fund an Associate’s Degree or Certificate program at Muskegon Community College or Baker College of Muskegon. Eligible students are those who live in and graduate from a high school located within MAISD boundaries and have a high school graduation GPA of 3.5 or higher. Additional proceeds from the Grape Escape will help fund other Muskegon-area Rotary projects.

The annual Grape Escape tasting event features wines from over a dozen Michigan wineries, along with microbrews crafted in Michigan and local Muskegon County breweries including Pigeon Hill, Unruly and Fetch. Guests will also enjoy delicious food from hometown restaurants. Unique Silent Auction items donated by local merchants will go to the highest bidders.

“The Grape Escape is an enjoyable, relaxing evening for guests to mix and mingle as they sip wine and microbrews and sample the area’s finest foods, while helping to provide and promote programs that are beneficial to our community,” said Deni Hunter, event co-chair.

Tickets for Grape Escape are $40.00 per person. For your convenience, tickets may be purchased online through the Muskegon Rotary Club’s Facebook page (facebook.com/muskegonrotary), Muskegon Rotary Grape Escape Facebook page (facebook.com/rotarygrapeescape), or on the club’s website at www.muskegonrotary.org (click on the Grape Escape Link and then the Order Now button). Tickets may also be purchased in person at Rotary Club regular meetings.

 

Muskegon Rotary: Rotary began as an idea more than 100 years ago. Today, Rotary flourishes worldwide with 1.2 million members in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The Muskegon Rotary Club was chartered on May 1, 1916 as Rotary International’s 216th Club. We are in District 6290, our club number is 2806. The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise.

Muskegon Area Promise: Why do YOU need to further YOUR education? In days past, the West Michigan job market offered a good living without college or even a full high school education. Today we live in a globally-oriented, knowledge-driven world where 53% of Job postings require a certificate, an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree. By 2025, this number is projected to rise to 64% of Muskegon’s current workforce, only 31% have these types of post high school degrees. Megan Byard-Karaba, College Access Specialist Muskegon Area Intermediate School District 231-767-3601, mbyard@muskegonisd.org,

For additional information about the Muskegon Rotary Club’s Grape Escape event on September 21, please contact: Deni Hunter (deni@ilikemg.com) or Mary Beth Ramos (Marybeth@ramosautobody.com).

Shoreline Vision Welcome’s Their Newest Provider

Continuing in its goal to be the premier, fully integrated regional eye care provider with the mission to preserve and improve vision, Shoreline Vision announces the addition of Dr. David Rawlinson to its medical staff.

Dr. David Rawlinson is a native of Michigan where he graduated from Hope College and went on to earn his doctorate in medicine from Michigan State University.  Dr. Rawlinson completed his internship and ophthalmology residency at St. John Health System in Detroit.  Dr. Rawlinson was honored for scoring in the top 1% of all physicians on his Medical Board Examination.

Dr. Rawlinson relocated with his family from Florida where he worked as a comprehensive ophthalmologist with special interests in family eye care, advanced cataract care, and LASIK.  Dr. Rawlinson selected ophthalmology as a profession because he “believes that excellent vision is essential for functioning and enjoying the world in which we live.”  Dr. Rawlinson is currently accepting new patients.  To schedule your exam, visit shorelinevision.com or call 888.739.9009.

Shoreline Vision is a comprehensive medical practice that provides eye care services from eyeglasses and comprehensive eye exams to retina care and cataract surgery at the only surgical center dedicated solely to eyes.  With 16 providers and over 150 employees, Shoreline Vision is the leading eye care practice along the lakeshore and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to every patient, using the best technology, research, and continuing education for their doctors and staff.

In addition to Muskegon, Shoreline Vision has offices in North Muskegon, Norton Shores, Spring Lake, Grand Haven, and Fremont.  For more information call Jennifer Scofield, Shoreline Vision Marketing Manager at 231.737.4717.

Customers Should be Wary of ‘Phishy’ Phone Calls

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson cautions customers to be wary of ‘phishy’ phone calls. 
Callers claiming to be state employees asking for credit card info

LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson urges customers to take care when giving out information over the phone to anyone they do not know personally.

The Secretary of State’s Office is aware of instances in which a person claiming to be a state employee has called asking for credit card and Social Security information. Callers may use a technique known as “caller ID spoofing” so a phone’s caller ID displays a valid number of a Secretary of State office or another state agency. Scammers pretending to be a legitimate business or government agency is often referred to as “phishing.”

Johnson emphasized that the Secretary of State’s Office does not make unsolicited calls to customers asking for personal or financial information.

“Although alarming as this activity is, there are steps Michigan residents can take to protect themselves,” Johnson said. “Any legitimate agency welcomes the chance to verify whether a contact, either in person or by phone, was appropriate.”

In one case, a customer received a call from someone purporting to be an employee of the Alpena Secretary of State office. The caller ID showed a valid state number. The customer correctly hung up the phone and called to verify whether the call was legitimate.

Johnson offered the following tips to help prevent fraud and protect personal information:

  • If you have any doubts about the legitimacy of the caller’s claim to be a Secretary of State employee, hang up and call the Department of State Information Center at 888-767-6424.

The Secretary of State’s Office will not:

  • Call and ask for PINs, passwords or access to your bank account or credit card numbers
  • Threaten to suspend your driver’s license or vehicle registration if you refuse to divulge personal or financial information
  • Demand immediate payment to resolve a problem

If you suspect that the caller ID information displayed on your phone has been falsified, or you think the rules for protecting the privacy of your telephone number have been violated, you can file a complaint with the FCC. You have multiple options for filing a complaint with the FCC:

  • File a complaint online
  • By phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (225-5322); TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (835-5322); ASL Videophone: 1-844-432-2275
  • By mail (please include your name, address, contact information and as much detail about your complaint as possible) to the Federal Communications Commission; Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau; Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division; 445 12th Street, S.W.; Washington, DC 20554

For more about the Secretary of State’s Office:

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

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

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 08/29/16 – 09/05/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Muskegon Dog Park Kick Off
August 30 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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This is for pups and their families to raise money for Muskegon’s new Dog Park! Join the Coffee Factory on Tuesday, August 30 from 4:00-8:00pm at 930 Washington Ave. There will be Watch Us Go items for sale, hot dogs and yummy treats for the friendly canines present! Also a photo booth to get that special photo. Proceeds benefit the new Dog Park in downtown Muskegon. Dogs must be kept on leash at this event. https://www.facebook.com/thecoffeefactorymuskegon

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

“As She Is” – Film & Discussion
August 30 @ 7:00 pm
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Tuesday, August 30 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for a screening and discussion of “As She Is” with director Megan McFeely.  The film teaches that reclaiming our instinctive way of knowing, our insight, our native certainty is not beyond reach.  With lush imagery, a moving soundtrack and candid interviews, this timely documentary explores the radical and undeniable truth that our individual happiness and our very chances at human survival depend upon receptive, connective, life-giving feminine strengths.

Come early for dinner, featuring Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Chicken, Side Salad and Dinner Roll with Herb Butter for only $7.95.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place
August 31 @ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Cruise-Ins at Fricano Place are back every Wednesday starting May 4 (weather permitting) from 5:00-8:30pm.  Antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are all welcome.  Enjoy oldies music and door prizes, too!  Come on down and check out some unique cars and enjoy some Fricano’s pizza and Sweet Treats from Fricano’s Sweet Shoppe!  All Cruise-In participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA
September 1 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!” Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free Thursday evenings from 4:00 to 8:00 pm so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. For more information call 231-720-2570.

Tales Untold
September 1 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
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Featured as an Emerging Artist August 30 to October 15 at the Arts Council of White Lake’s Nuveen Center is Kat VanderWeele of East Grand Rapids.  “Tales Untold” underlies the limner’s stage of life and foretells plans for the art work on display.  An opening reception will be 5:00 to 7:00pm, September 1.

VanderWeele began making art as a child, inventing characters, creatures and complementary stories.  Her passion led to a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, with a major in Illustration, from Kendall College of Art and Design.  Media that bring her characters to life include acrylics, watercolor, colored pencils, pen and ink, graphite and gouache. Her work has been exhibited at numerous venues in Grand Rapids, including ArtPrize, and she has won several art scholarships and awards.

The Arts Council of White Lake is a 30-year old Non-Profit.  We provide numerous opportunities for the White Lake community and surrounding cities to view, listen to, create and learn from the arts, and we give support and encouragement to artists and arts organizations. The Nuveen Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information call 231-893-2524 or find us online at www.artswhitelake.org and on Facebook.

Sailor Salute!
September 1 @ 7:00 pm
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Thursday, September 1 at Mona Shores High School during the football game with Zeeland West High School, there will be a community-wide salute to pay tribute to those who serve our country and community.  The event honors active duty military, veterans and first responders including police, fire and emergency personnel.  Anyone dressed in military, police, fire and first responders will be admitted free.  Veterans should have their veteran identification card. Family members will be charged the regular admission fee of $5 for adults and $3 for students.

With area police, fire, emergency responders and Veterans present to be honored, the aim is for thousands of Muskegon area residents to lift their voices as one  singing “God Bless America” and our “National Anthem,” accompanied by the Mona Shores Marching Band.  Festivities and static displays of military and first responder vehicles will happen prior to the game.  The pre-game patriotic sing-along, a military fly-over, a parade of motorcyclists surrounding the field and plenty of other activities are planned.

Donations will be collected for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.  For more information, call 231-780-4711, ext. 8312.

Polish Festival
September 2 – September 4
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The first annual Muskegon Polish Festival will take place over Labor Day weekend September 2-4 at historic Hackley Park in Downtown Muskegon! This 3-day festival will offer Polish food polka music dancing cultural activities a children’s tent a Catholic mass and much more. Everyone is invited for an authentic Polish experience at a unique venue in the heart of Muskegon. For more information call Ellen at 231-750-4970.

Friday, September 2

  • Stan Mroz Polka Band 12:00-4:00pm
  • Box On Polka Band 5:00-9:00pm

Saturday, September 3

  • Dyna Brass Polka Band and The New Brass Express 12:00-4:00pm
  • Box On Polka Band 5:00-9:00pm

Scenic Cruises
September 2 & 3 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Friday, September 2 and Saturday, September 3 from 2:00-3:30pm, spend an hour and a half aboard the Port City Princess experiencing a water’s view of Muskegon while learning about our county’s history in the process.  The cost is $25 per person.  Call 231-728-8387 for reservations or more information.

First Fridays Street Performer Series
September 2 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon’s new Street Performer Series will take over the sidewalks, street corners and stages of downtown Muskegon on the First Friday of every month!  On each night, dozens of performers will be positioned along Western Avenue from 6:00-8:00pm. Performers include puppeteers, magicians, face-painters, fire-performers, chalk artists, belly dancers, barbershop quartets and more. Guests can also enjoy ice cream, shaved ice and balloon animals.  For more information, “Like” the First Friday and Street Performer Series Facebook pages.

Dinner/Dance Aboard the Port City Princess
September 2 @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Friday, September 2 from 7:00-9:30pm, unwind after a busy week with a Dinner/Dance aboard the Port City Princess!  The cost is $55 and there will be a cash bar. For reservations or more information, call 231-728-8387.

11th Annual Run for Sight
September 3 @ 7:00 am – 10:00 am
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Saturday, September 3, you’re invited to participate in the 11th Annual Run for Sight!  100% of the proceeds from this 5K Run and 5K Walk will be donated to the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired.  Run For Sight is a 5K Run/Walk along beautiful Lake Michigan at Pere Marquette Park.  There’ll be first, second and third place medals in 14 different age categories for 9 years old and up in the 5K Run.  This visually stunning race path will be shared with friends who are visually impaired, who will walk the route after the runners begin.  Run For Sight 5K Run/Walk begins at with registration at 7:00am in the parking lot between the Coast Guard Festival and Margaret Drake Elliot Park.  The 5K Run is competitive and the 5K Walk is family, stroller and dog friendly, but remember; dogs must be on a leash and picked up after.  The 5K Run starts at 8:30am with the 5K Walk starting just a few minutes after.  5K Run awards will take place around 9:30am. For more information, visit www.run4sight.com.

Artisan Market
September 3 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
The Arts Council of White Lake is hosting an Artisan Market, on the first Saturday of the summer months, right across the street from the Farmers Market in Montague. On July 2, August 6, and September 3 from 9:00am- 1:00pm, a variety of vendors will be selling their handmade items., including soap, jewelry, and other art items. Come support local artists and find unique gifts for yourself or a loved one. For more information call 231-893-2524 or visit www.artswhitelake.org.

End of Summer Sunset Smorgasbord
September 3 @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Saturday, September 3 from 7:00-9:00pm, come aboard the Port City Princess for the “End of Summer Sunset Smorgasbord!”  Don’t miss out on one of the final opportunities to enjoy dinner and dancing while enjoying a breathtaking sunset on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan.  The cost is $55 per person.  Call 231-728-8387 for more information or reservations.

Maranatha Summer Concert Series: Captivating Keyboards
September 3 @ 9:00 pm
In conjunction with Kids Alive International, Alan Tripp and Scott Griffin perform as the Captivating Keyboards duo, striving to serve the Lord through their music. Their fun, creative interactive musical production will engage and inspire audiences as they perform at the Tabernacle on the grounds of Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference on Saturday, September 3 at 7 p.m. ET.

Admission is FREE and open to the public; however, priority seating may be purchased with a meal ticket. The meal will start at 5 p.m. ET.

Dinner Buffet Pricing:

Adults 14+: $ 16.30 + tax
10-14yr olds: $ 10.30 + tax
5-9yr olds: $ 8.30 + tax
4 and Under: Free
To reserve your dinner tickets, please call the front desk at 231-798-2161.

12th Annual Labor Day Cars For Cancer
September 4 @ 7:00 am – September 5 @ 4:00 pm
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Sunday and Monday, September 4-5, come to the Mercy Health Lakes Village as the Different Strokes Car Club presents the 12th Annual Labor Day Cars for Cancer event!  100% of the proceeds go to Mercy Health Johnsons Family Cancer Care.  In the first 11 years of this car show and cruise, they have raised over $ 150,000 for this worthy cause.  Enter to win a 1963 Serro Scotty Gaucho 13 ft. trailer!  Search on Facebook for Muskegon’s Labor Day Cars For Cancer or e-mail tradrod51@aol.com for more information.

10th Annual Labor Day Walk/ Fun Run
September 5 @ 8:00 am
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This annual Muskegon County community event is to celebrate the beauty of our environment and promote the health of our community. Check in / onsite registration is at 8:00am. Event is not a chip-timed, but a start/end clock will be on site. Commemorate your day with a t-shirt! www.shorelinecity.com

Annual Labor Day Breakfast
September 5 @ 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
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Monday, September 5 from 8:00am-12:00pm, come to the Margaret Drake Elliott Park at beautiful Pere Marquette Beach for the Muskegon Lions’ Annual Labor Day Breakfast!  The cost is $7 for people 13 and over, $3 for kids 3-12 and kids under 3 are free.  Enjoy a great pancake breakfast on Lake Michigan while helping to support the Lions in their effort to make a brighter day for someone else.  For more information, call 231-744-1904.

West Michigan United Labor Day Parade
September 5 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Labor Day is the holiday in which we recognize and celebrate the contribution of all America’s workers to the growth and continued vitality of our Nation. Everybody loves a parade! This is an all-inclusive community parade through the streets of downtown Muskegon. The parade will start 11:00am on Monday September 5 and will end approximately around 12:30pm. They are planning a fun filled FREE post parade celebration following the parade that will go until 4:00pm. They will have food by Greek Tony’s, refreshments, cotton candy, games, prizes, face painting, bounce houses, arts n’ crafts and much more! For more information or an application to be in the Labor Day Parade, please contact Jana at 231-638-2741 or Jana@unitedwaylakeshore.org.

The parade starts at the intersection of 4th street and Western Avenue. It will progress down Western Avenue to Jefferson Street (turning right) and heading towards Clay Avenue. The march will continue down Clay Avenue and end at Hackley Park for a post parade celebration!

ISM Greater Grand Rapids Affiliate Dinner Meeting

ISM Greater Grand Rapids
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Affiliate Dinner Meeting

GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN – ISM the Greater Grand Rapids Affiliate is pleased to announce their first 2016-17 affiliate dinner meeting on Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at the GVSU Eberhard Center, 301 West Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. Mr. Tony J. Conant, Chief Operating Officer at the Institute for Supply Management® will present ISM Business Update and 21st Century Supply Management Organization.

The deadline for registration is Thursday, September 8, 2016 at Noon. Reservations can be made online by email at ISMGGR@aol.com or by credit card at www.ismggr.org. The non-member cost for the dinner meeting is $35.00.

Board of Trustees_ 11-10-14

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 10, 2014

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2014, in the township board room.

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

Also Present:  0–employees; 0-residents; and Director of Public Works, Farrar

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

The meeting minutes of October 27, 2014, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The board meeting agenda for November 10, 2014, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
Water main at the Bridge Street & Brooks Road intersection.

 PUBLIC COMMENTS – PART 1
No comments received.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
14-115 Adoption of Zoning Text Amendment Ordinance
Dave Markgraf moved, Ron Becklin seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the zoning chapter of the Code of Ordinances concerning the restatement of Division 8, 9 and 10 of Article VI of Chapter 42, concerning the B-1, B-2 and B-3 General Business Districts, as recommended by the Planning Commission. The zone change is effective eight days after publication in the Muskegon Chronicle. This constitutes the second and final reading. The new Ordinance Number is 785.

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

NEW BUSINESS
14-116 Lieutenant Morningstar Contract Amendment
Ron Becklin moved, Marjorie Nash seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to add wording to Lieutenant Morningstar’s contract agreement regarding opting out of medical insurance by adding the following wording- the employee may elect to take a monthly stipend in cash payment.

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

14-117 Assessing Contract with Muskegon County Board
Ron Becklin moved, Marjorie Nash seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to enter into an agreement with the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners to provide assessment services on a short term basis to be administered by the County Equalization Director, or designated representative, while Fruitport Charter Township’s assessor is incapacitated.

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

14-118  Amendment to Insurance Appendix of SEIU, POLC and IAFF Union Contracts
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Carol Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the insurance appendix to SEIU, POLC and IAFF Union contracts, as presented, in order to make necessary changes to the health insurance plans.

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

14-119 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgeraf moved, seconded by Carol Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $4,521.87; Public Safety$14,578.85   Water $64,586.26;   Sewer $560.64.       Totaling:$ 84,247.62

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

ADDITIONAL REPORTS –
Public Comments: Part II   —   None received

Adjournment
The motion by Ron Becklin, seconded by Dave Markgrf, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adjourn the meeting at 7:37 p.m.

_______________________________            ______________________________
CAROL HULKA, CLERK                              BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Board of Trustees_ 10-13-14

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF OCTOBER 13, 2014 

The regular meeting of the Fruitport Charter Township Board was called to order by Supervisor Brian Werschem at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 13, 2014, in the township board room.

Supervisor Werschem open the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer.

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

Also Present: DPW Director, Farrar and Public Safety Director, Doctor

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Dave Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to correct the board meeting minutes dated September 22, 2014—regular meeting—as follows:

Item 14-093 Township Hall Project Update
Was: The total cost of the new township hall is $1,180.00
Corrected: The total cost of the new township hall is $1,180,000

The board meeting agenda for October 13, 2014, was approved as presented.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – None received
CORRESPONDENCE / REPORT
Michigan Township Association (MTA) Legislative Updates
MTA Participating Plan News (Property & Casualty)
Township Utilities Department- Water Sanitary Survey
Muskegon County Road Commission annual roadkill banquet for Muskegon County municipality officials is October 30th.

OLD BUSINESS – None Received

NEW BUSINESS
14-102 Retirement Plan Document Amendments
The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Ron Becklin, was carried unanimously, to amend the Townships’ retirement plan to recognize the term “marriage” to include a marriage between same-sex individuals recognized under state law and the terms “spouse”, husband and wife, “husband” and “wife” to include a same-sex spouse.

14-103 Transferring Assets from Cemetery to Utility Department
Ron Becklin moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to sell the 2003 cemetery vehicle with snowplow to the Utility Department at the cost of $4,500.

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

14-104 Community Service Worker Agreement—Voluntary Status
The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Marjorie Nash, was carried unanimously, to adopt the Community Service Worker Agreement as prepared by the township attorney dated October 2, 2014, as modified.

14-105 Pontaluna Sidewalk
At the corner of Pontaluna and Cottonwood there is no sidewalk for children to walk on when going to school.

Chuck Whitlow moved, Dave Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to split the cost—not to exceed $2,500—with Fruitport Schools for a sidewalk at the corner of Pontaluna and Cottonwood. Fruitport Schools will maintain and snowplow the sidewalk.

Ayes: Whitlow, Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Werschem     Nays: Becklin

14-016 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgraf moved, Ron Becklin seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $15,117.28; Public Safety $74,693.50; Water $35,297.08   Sewer $ 47,163.06                     Totaling: 172,270.92$

PUBLIC COMMENTS — None received

ADDITIONAL REPORTS—Bridge Street project—two water main breaks in last several years—400 ft. will be replaced.

Adjournment
The motion by Ron Becklin, seconded by Chuck Whitlow, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:14 p.m.

___________________________           ________________________________
CAROL HULKA, CLERK                   BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Board of Trustees_ 09-22-14

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 22, 2014
A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, September 22, 2014, in the township board room.

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

Also Present:  0–employees; 2-residents; Director of Public Works, Farrar; Public Safety Director, Doctor; and Ron Bultje, township attorney;

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

The meeting minutes of August 25, 2014, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The board meeting agenda for September 22, 2014, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS    

  1. Michigan Townships Association legislative updates
  2. Revenue and Expenditure Report for period ending 8-31-2014
  3. Parks & Recreation meeting minutes of 07-29-2014
  4. Planning Commission meeting minutes of 09-16-2014
  5. A Community Mixer, sponsored by the Muskegon Rotary & Muskegon Heights, on October 1, 2014 at Mona Lake Park, 4 – 7 p.m.
  6. A notice of hearing for customers of Michigan Gas Utilities Corp: A request to consider an application which seeks Commission approval of its proposed tariff revisions relating to Operational Flow Orders and Centrally Metered Installations.
  7. Notice of the quarterly meeting of the Muskegon County Chapter of Michigan Townships Association to be held on September 29, 2014, at the Fruitport Township Hall at 7:00 p.m.

 PUBLIC COMMENTS – PART 1
No comments received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
14-093 Township Hall Project Update
The total cost of the new township hall is $1,180.00. The cost is approximately $70,000 under budget.

14-094 Capital Fund Budget Adjustments from Carry-over
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to carry forward $49,000 left over from last year’s bond proceeds and add to budgeted Capital Improvement for 2014-15.

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

NEW BUSINESS
14-095 Part-time Police Wages
Public Safety Director, Doctor, explained the wage structure for the part- time police secretary, part-time desk officer/office manager, and part-time police officers. The following are proposed salary increases to begin on October 1, 2014:

Part-time Office Clerk- new wage proposed is $12.00 per hour     (Last increase was 4/30/12)

Part-time Office Manager /Certified Officer- new wage proposed is $13.50 per hour (Last increase was 7/1/13)
Part-time police officers- new wage proposed is $12.75 per hour     (Last increase was 10/1/11)

Marjorie Nash moved, Ron Becklin seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to increase part-time wages to take place on October 1, 2014, for the police secretary, office manager/certified police officer, and part-time police officers. Part-time wages for police are to be reviewed annually in September for October implementation. The Public Safety committee made the recommendation.

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

14-096 Police Department- Full Time Vacancy
Public Safety Director, Doctor, explained the need to replace a full-time police officer who resigned in March of this year.

The motion by Ron Becklin, seconded by Dave Markgraf was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to hire part-time police officer, James Hodges, to a full-time position starting September 29, 2014. The recommendation was made by the Public Safety committee.

14-097 Demolition Bids for 6543 Airline Road
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to accept the low bid for demolition and dismantling of the former Fruitport Township Hall from Melching, Inc. of Nunica.   The low bid is $10,750 plus $3,000 for asbestos testing and removal totaling $13,750. The recommendation was made by the Facilities committee.

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

14-098 Cemetery / Maintenance / Plow Vehicle
Carol Hulka moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to purchase a 2015 cemetery/maintenance truck with snow plow package at the price of $29,656.00.

Ayes: Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Werschem        Nays: Markgraf

14-099 Adjustments to Capital Outlay Budget
Ron Becklin moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to make the following adjustments to the capital outlay budget, as recommended by Supervisor Werschem:

$340,000.00 to the town hall project
$ 14,000.00 to the demolition of the former township hall
$ 30,000.00 to acquire a new cemetery/maintenance truck

Ayes: Bucklin, Dillon, Nash, Hulka, Margrave, and Werschem   Nays: none

14-100 Ordinance Overhaul
The township zoning ordinances are in need of being up-dated. Township attorney, Ron Bultje and his firm of Scholten Fant will assist in this project.

 14-101 Payment of Bills
Dave Margrave moved, Marjorie Nash seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $64,602.96; Public Safety$28,056.59;   Water $207,595.57;   Sewer $714,612.29.       Totaling: $1,014,867.41

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

ADDITIONAL REPORTS –
A formal presentation will be done at an up-coming meeting concerning the Class 4 ISO rating the fire department received.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Part II   —   None received

Adjournment
The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Ron Becklin, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adjourn the meeting at 8:08 p.m.

_______________________________           ______________________________
CAROL HULKA, CLERK                              BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Planning Commission Regular Meeting_09-16-14

Minutes
Fruitport Charter Township, 6543 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415
Date: September 16, 2014

Planning Commissioner Michelli brought the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

01. Roll Call:
–        Members Present: Jeff Jacobs, Morrie Dadd, Mike Michelli Jr., Chuck Whitlow, Randy Lee, Geoff Newmyer , Kyle Osterhart.
–        Members Absent: None.

02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: July 15, 2014
A.   Under Agenda #9, Letter F, Letter G, Letter C; revise to, “The parking spots shall be 9’-6-1/2” x 20’-0”.
B.   Under Agenda #9a, Comment 2, Sub-Comment 1; revise to, “42-606(B): if you expand or extend your residence, you must comply with the regulations. When a driveway or a residence is expanded the driveway must be updated.”
C.   Lee motioned to approve the minutes as presented, Newmyer supported
a. Ayes: All in Favor.
b.Nays: None.

03. Approve / Amend Agenda:
A.   The agenda is approved as presented.

04. Correspondence / Reports:
A.   Lakes Mall Shed.
a. Supervisor Werschem & Chairman Jacobs mentioned this is for salt storage. The structure is 4’-0” x 5’-0”. The planning commission didn’t have any further comment.

05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics:
A.   None.

Administrative Matters:
06. B-2 & B-3 Business District.
A.   This has been reviewed by the township attorney & now the Planning Commission needs to review it.  There will be a public hearing considering the changes next month. Lee suggested the lot requirements and setback requirements should be set as a “minimum” to minimize confusion. Supervisor Werschem also suggested we should look at how the new ordinance would affect existing businesses.

07. Driveway Ordinance.
A.   Brian Michelli, from the Fruitport Fire Department, is present to represent the Fire Department. He explained there are conflicts with the fire code & the township ordinance. This year, there has been (3) instances with the terminology “existing”. The fire department would like the “existing” portion taken out or revised in the ordinance.
B.   The other issue is that the width of the driveway varies from the ordinance & the fire code. The planning commission / township needs to find a way to revise the ordinance so that the ordinance & fire code do not contradict each other.
a. The width issue becomes unclear when a driveways is over 150’-0”, not under 150’-0”.
C.   Jacobs suggested that driveways should be reviewed by the fire department if there is an increase to the square footage of the primary dwelling or an accessory building.
D.   The planning commission needs to address both issues.
E.   Werschem said he is going to have a conversation with the township attorney about both issues & get his interpretation/suggestions & report back to the Planning Commission next month.

Unfinished Business:
08. None.

New Business:
09. None.

10. Public Comments:
A.   Werschem handed out the sign ordinance. He asked that the Planning Commission review it because there have been conflicts & issues that aren’t addressed properly.
a. One issue being, it does not address monument signs & whether or not where & how they are allowed.
b.There is also a problem with a church on Pontaluna Road that wants to change their sign but cannot because of the ordinances restrictions. The planning commission needs to review institutional uses in residential areas. Home occupations would need to be excluded.

11. Adjournment: There being no further discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Kyle D. Osterhart, Secretary

Parkinson’s Power Support Group meeting

All persons with Parkinson’s Disease, their families and caregivers are invited to attend the Parkinson’s Power Support Group meeting on Wednesday, December 3, 11 a.m., at the Norton Shores Library Community Room, 705 Seminole Rd. Participant Ed Thomas will give a brief talk on his experience with deep brain stimulation. After his talk, members will enjoy a holiday party. The event is free. For more information, call 231-737-4374.

Maintenance Associate – Part-time Temporary Position

Strong employment experience in the following areas is required:  plumbing, electrical, HVAC, boiler, water heater, washer and dryer maintenance, vehicle maintenance, as well as, seasonal grounds maintenance. Must be a self-starter and require little supervision. A strong work ethic and a heart for those less fortunate is required in this Christian environment. Applications are available on-line at www.muskegonmission.org or at Muskegon Rescue Mission, 1715 Peck Street, Muskegon, MI  49441.

 

The Community Foundation Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation for Muskegon County announces that the Foundation Scholarship Program for Muskegon, Oceana, Mason & Manistee counties is currently accepting applications for the 2014/2015 school year. Applications are available to be submitted electronically at the Community Foundation website, www.cffmc.org. The application process has been streamlined to three easy steps for students and families.

THE ONLINE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS:   MARCH 1, 2014

The Community Foundation for Muskegon County administers over 275 scholarship funds and grants hundreds of awards each year to both graduating high school seniors and current college students.  The Foundation’s “General Scholarship Application” is used to support scholarship applications for students in the Muskegon area as well as those in Oceana, Mason and Manistee Counties.

The Community Foundation does not make awards solely on the basis of need.  Academic achievement, community involvement, extra curricular activities and financial need are all taken into consideration.  All Community Foundation scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis.

For More Information, Call:
Dana Scott, Scholarship Coordinator
Community Foundation for Muskegon County
(231) 332-4104

 

Fruitport Girl Scouts Dedicate Picnic Area

By Collet Domine
FrpGirlScoutsDedication-1
Sunday, September 29th a Dedication Ceremony that Fruitport Girl Scout Troop# 20507 was held to dedicate a picnic area for the community, at the Broadway Ave Bike Trail parking lot.  They have worked hard and have cleared an area for friends and families, etc. to meet while using the trail or just for a gathering.

FrpGirlScoutsDedication-2

 

There is a walk way and picnic table with flower contains and also a horseshoe pit for people to enjoy.  They hope people will use and enjoy this area for many years to come.  They took on this project to earn their Bronze Award.

All Set with Your Flu Shot?

What about other vaccines for preventable diseases?

 OTTAWA COUNTY – You’re ready for this flu season, but are you and your family up-to-date on other vaccinations? Immunizations protect our community from dangerous infectious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella and more. Remember years ago almost everyone got chickenpox? It was one of the most common childhood diseases and unfortunately it caused many to suffer through itchy blister-like rashes. Thankfully, chickenpox vaccine has changed all that. Chickenpox vaccine protects you against a very uncomfortable and sometimes serious disease. Chickenpox used to be very common in the United States. About 4 million people would get the disease each year. Also, about 10,600 people were hospitalized and 100 to 150 died each year because of chickenpox, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral illness that most commonly lasts about 5-10 days. The classic symptom of chickenpox is a rash that turns into itchy, fluid-filled blisters that eventually turn into scabs. The rash may first show up on the face, chest, and back then spread to the rest of the body, including inside the mouth, eyelids, or genital area. A person can have 250 to 500 blisters. It usually takes about one week for all the blisters to become scabs. Children usually miss 5 to 6 days of school or childcare due to their chickenpox.The CDC recommends two doses of chickenpox vaccine for children (12 months of age or older), adolescents, and adults. Two doses of the vaccine are about 98% effective at preventing chickenpox. Some people who are vaccinated against chickenpox may still get the disease. However, it is usually milder with fewer blisters and little or no fever. Complications from chickenpox can occur, but they are not as common in otherwise healthy people who get the disease. People who may have more severe symptoms and may be at high risk for complications leading to hospital stays or even death include infants, adolescents, those with HIV/AIDS, on chemotherapy, or pregnant. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays in the body in a dormant (inactive) state. For reasons that are not fully known, the virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles.

Immunizations are safe and effective. Currently in Michigan, thousands of children become ill from various types of diseases that could have been prevented. If you have any questions about your children’s immunizations or need to schedule an appointment, please contact your pediatrician or health care provider. For more information, visit Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) www.miOttawa.org/Immunize.

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/ and http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines

“Vaccines are among the safest and most successful public health tools available for preventing diseases and death”
– Walter A. Orenstein, M.D.,
Director of the CDC’s National Immunization Program

Shake, Rattle and Roll

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

“It’s 8:16 on a chilly, wet morning…You’ve just arrived at work and are pouring a cup of coffee when you become aware of a low rumbling noise. Within seconds, the rumbling becomes a roar, the floor beneath you heaves, and the building begins to pitch and shake so violently that you’re thrown to the floor. The roaring is joined by a cacophony of crashing as windows shatter and every unsecured object in the room – from the desk chair to the coffee pot – is sent flying. Shaken loose by the shuddering and jolting of the building, dust and ceiling particles drift down like snow. Then the lights flicker and go out.”

That’s the arresting start of a new report produced by several governmental agencies that describes what can happen when a magnitude 9.0 earthquake hits what’s called the Cascadia Region, an area that stretches from the coast of Northern California northward through western Oregon, Washington, and southwestern British Columbia. The quake will be triggered by movement along the faults that lie between the oceanic tectonic plates and the plate on which North America rides. When the plates move suddenly, absolutely enormous amounts of energy are released, with violent shaking of the ground and tsunamis as the result. The report that describes all this is Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquakes: A Magnitude 9.0 Earthquake Scenario.

Cascadia isn’t the only place in danger of having major earthquakes. Most famously, the San Andreas and associated faults in California are a constant threat to local residents. And the New Madrid fault zone, centered where the states of Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee come together, is a threat to the lower Midwest. Finally, states as different as South Carolina and Alaska also run the risk of significant earthquakes. In short, the U.S. has a number of regions where enormous amounts of energy can be released over the span of just seconds, with resulting damage to buildings, roads, power lines and pipelines.

The Cascadia region of the Pacific Northwest is in danger of large earthquakes because it’s a subduction zone – a place where ocean crust dives underneath the overriding North American plate. Worldwide, subduction zones harbor the greatest threats for truly enormous earthquakes, with magnitudes from 8 to 9 and even higher. In 1960 a quake off the coast of Chile had a magnitude of 9.5 – the highest ever on record. Quakes that enormous have major ground shaking that lasts for a terrifyingly long time, and they can create large tsunami at sea. In addition, such quakes have numerous aftershocks, quakes that in their own right are significant.

The scale used by geologists to measure earthquakes has its complexities. In California, the Loma Prieta quake of 1989 had a magnitude of 6.9. In 2002 a quake with magnitude 7.9 struck Denali Park, Alaska. The Alaskan quake, measuring a single unit higher on the magnitude scale, released more than 30 times more energy than the smaller Loma Prieta quake.

The most recent mega-quake in Cascadia is estimated to have had a magnitude between 8.7 and 9.2. It occurred on January 26, 1700. We know about it both from physical evidence here in our country and from written records of a tsunami that arrived in Japan some hours after the quake. The sobering fact is that we could have a similar event again, and at any time.

We can’t predict the date of the next major earthquake in the U.S. but we can anticipate some likely impacts it will have. In Cascadia the dangers spring both from ground shaking and flooding along the coasts and estuaries due to tsunami. The Oregon Legislature commissioned a report that estimated more than $30 billion in property could be lost when the next Big One hits. The death toll might stand at around 10,000 from such an event.

It behooves those of us who live in earthquake country – whether in the lower Midwest, California or Cascadia – to educate ourselves about risks. Having several days worth of food and water on hand, and a way to cook up some vittles, are simple goals most of us can achieve.

 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.

One Big Eruption

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

When I was a child, I read a lot of murder mysteries. At a young age I favored the books featuring Miss Marple by Agatha Christie. When I was a bit older I fell in love with Lord Peter Wimsey in the books by Dorothy Sayers. No matter the book, I liked to follow along as the hero of the tale put the clues together to figure out who-done-it.

So the quote from the BBC News got my attention. It was from Prof. Franck Lavigne of the Pantheon-Sorbonne University in France.

“We didn’t know the culprit at first, but we had the time of the murder and the fingerprints,” Lavigne said.

It wasn’t literally a murder that Lavigne was discussing, although many deaths may have been related to what happened. Instead, the mystery was one that hinged on geology. What’s at issue was evidence that a major volcanic eruption occurred somewhere in the world in the year 1257. The eruption was large enough its geochemical signature – or fingerprints – show up in both Arctic and Antarctic ice of medieval age.

In Europe, written records show atrocious weather hitting society hard one year later in 1258. It was cold and rainy throughout the growing season that year, with flooding replacing good harvests. In London, thousands of people were buried in mass graves, possibly due to hunger weakening the population and making it more susceptible to disease.

But where was the smoking gun, the volcano that had caused the problem? Candidates had been put forward in New Zealand, Mexico and Ecuador, but none of them quite fit the time or the specific chemical fingerprint found in the volcanic material buried in the ice.

Recently an international team of researchers announced their evidence that the Samalas Volcano on Lombok Island, Indonesia was the culprit that caused short-lived but worldwide climate change. The team looked at several different types of evidence, including sulfur and volcanic dust traces in ice, as well as what’s found at Lombok. They also did radiocarbon dating of materials and they even checked with local written records that tell of the fall of the Lombok Kingdom in the 1200s.

“The evidence is very strong and compelling,” said Prof. Clive Oppenheimer of Cambridge University, speaking to the BBC.

Oppenheimer, Lavigne and their colleagues tied together the evidence of the far-away ice with material found in the Lombok region. They argue that about 10 cubic miles of volcanic material was hurled skyward in an enormous eruption. The smallest particles launched upward would have reached an altitude of 25 miles or more. Only such an enormous eruption would have carried volcanic materials in the quantities identified in Antarctic and Greenland ice layers. And an eruption on that scale would have made for significant climate change.

It’s not always that scientists are given a full set of clues that wrap fully around the world. But such appears to have been the case in the mystery of what happened in the year 1257.

 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.

Letter to Editor: 11-27-13

11/27/13

The biggest reason for the moral downfall that exists in the U.S.A. is the so-called Supreme Court of the United States of America. I am referring to two major decisions.

The 1973 decision that allowed the murder of millions of unborn babies – Roe verses Wade. Does anyone believe the authors of our constitution would allow the murder of babies? Or same sex marriage? At conception babies are persons. The baby is an individual carrying both the mother’s and father’s DNA. Why is it that the father has no say whether or not to end an unborn baby’s life?

As for same sex marriage is concerned, I believe the so-called Supreme Court does not have the authority to render such outrageous decisions.

The Defense of Marriage was passed by the people of California. The Congress of the United States passed The Defense of Marriage Act. How can five members of the so-called Supreme Court override Federal and State laws?

Our country has no right to preach morals to other countries as long as evil decisions exist. Wake up people, these decisions must be struck down!

I have recently seen on television and in the newspaper, that our government is considering keeping troops in Afghanistan until 2024. I strenuously object to this insanity. We don’t need any more of our troops killed or wounded.

And why do we have such a large National debt? As ex-President Clinton stated during a campaign, it’s the economy, stupid. In this instance it’s the cost of Mideast wars that’s stupid. It is one of the biggest reasons for the national debt. Pull the troops out of Afghanistan now instead of cutting Social Security, Medicare and other programs that benefit average people.

Contractors have made billions off these Mid-East wars, and million dollar vehicles are being burned because it is too expensive to ship them back to the U.S. What a deception! There are government officials listed periodically in the Muskegon Chronicle, many with toll-free numbers. Call them or write them. It may help them decide to get all troops and contractors out of Afghanistan now. If the President signs an agreement to keep troops in Afghanistan, I will lose all respect for him.

Richard L. Lang, Ravenna

LiveWall and the B.O.B. Commit to Downtown Greening

‘Back to Eden” voted Top 25 in ArtPrize 2013 Will Stay Up at Least Another Year

Grand Rapids, Mich. —  The “Back to Eden” ArtPrize entry by LiveWall, LLC owner David MacKenzie will stay at the B.O.B., for at least for another year.

Ranking in the top 25 during the 2013 ArtPrize competition, “Back to Eden” is a 1400 square foot abstract painting—with plants as the “paint” (mostly annual plants). “Back to Eden” resonated with ArtPrize attendees because of its design, nighttime effect, and environmental statement. It served as a popular backdrop for photography and a stimulus to conversations about environmental stewardship, urban greening, and the importance of plants and nature in our lives.

Originally the plan, for after ArtPrize, was to “take it down,” but neither B.O.B. owner, Gregory Gilmore, nor LiveWall, LLC owner David MacKenzie was ready to do that; MacKenzie and Gilmore met shortly after ArtPrize and discussed the exhibit, and while Gilmore states that “he would love to own it,” he has plans to develop the north side of the B.O.B.’s property in the near future. Gilmore stated that a firm date has not been set for the new development, but plans are moving ahead, and unfortunately the new development will occupy the space where `Back to Eden” currently resides. Instead he offered the use of the space to MacKenzie for joint promotions, to use as an outdoor showroom, and for another ArtPrize entry in 2014.

Mackenzie says, “This is a good arrangement for all concerned; I don’t have to worry about relocating the wall right now. The B.O.B. is a central and highly visible location to showcase our LiveWall system and a broad array of plants.” MacKenzie has already replanted the wall with some 2000+ winter hardy-perennials, and next year plans to replace some of them with colorful annuals, as well as herbs and vegetables for use in the B.O.B.’s various kitchens.

The B.O.B.’s LiveWall installation is located on the north side of the building and is visible and accessible for viewing by the public almost anytime. Neighbors in surrounding offices and condominiums will enjoy watching the seasonal changes including winter colors, springtime foliage, and summertime flowers. It is interesting to note that the LiveWall surrounds the mechanical units and dumpsters of the B.O.B, and these are now surrounded on three sides with colorful plants—it’s a nice way to disguise these elements.

“We know that the public will benefit,” say both Gilmore and MacKenzie—there will be beauty, oxygenation of the air, cooling of the surrounding environment, those sorts of things, and it will be interesting to see how the LiveWall impacts urban wildlife. MacKenzie expects the LiveWall to act as an urban oasis attracting mourning doves, hummingbirds, butterflies, and honeybees.

The B.O.B.’s green wall will be the third publically visible LiveWall system in Grand Rapids. Currently there are 800 square feet of LiveWall on the south and west walls of Grand Rapids’ new Downtown Market, and just recently John Ball Zoo installed a LiveWall on the rooftop of the chimpanzee house.

The LiveWall is one of the features of the Downtown Market which contributes to its environmental statement, energy savings, and its ability to achieve Green Building Council’s LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Certified LEED buildings cost less to operate and are a physical demonstration of the values of the organizations that own and occupy them.

About LiveWall
Based in Spring Lake, Michigan, LiveWall®, LLC (www.livewall.com) is the top horticultural science company in the planted wall industry. Exceptional in design and function, the LiveWall System is developed and manufactured in West Michigan and offers the most effective horticultural solution for vegetated walls.

Click here for Project Photos

PHOTOGRAPHERS AND VIDEOGRAPHERS WELCOME. TO ARRANGE INTERVIEWS AND FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT AMBER PONCE, 616.935.1964.

 

Alzheimer’s Association® Provides Ten Important Tips for the Holiday Season

 Early Detection is Important; Know the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

The holiday season can be busy with travel and visits from family and friends who might not often see one another. This time together may raise questions about a person’s physical and cognitive health. Although some change in cognitive ability can occur with age, memory problems that impact daily living are not a part of typical aging. Recognizing the difference between typical aging and potentially more serious problems can help identify when it may be time to see a doctor.

Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias is an important step in getting appropriate treatment, care and support services. Following are additional benefits to receiving a diagnosis as early as possible:

Benefits of an early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
• Benefit from treatments that may improve symptoms and help maintain a level of independence longer.
• Have more time to plan for the future.
• Sign up for and participate in a clinical trial through Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch® – a free, easy-to-use clinical studies matching service that connects individuals with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, healthy volunteers and physicians with current studies.
• Participate in decisions about care, transportation, living options, financial and legal matters.
• Develop a relationship with doctors and care partners.
• Benefit from care and support services, making it easier to manage the disease.

Individuals may experience one or more of the 10 Warning Signs in different degrees. If you notice any of them, please see a doctor.

Alzheimer’s Association 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life. One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on one’s own.
What’s typical: Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems. Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.
What’s typical: Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.

 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure. People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
What’s typical: Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.

4. Confusion with time or place: People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.
What’s typical: Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. In terms of perception, they may pass a mirror and think someone else is in the room. They may not realize they are the person in the mirror.
What’s typical: Vision changes related to cataracts.

 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”).
What’s typical: Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.

 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.
What’s typical: Misplacing things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control.

8. Decreased or poor judgment. People with Alzheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.
What’s typical: Making a bad decision once in a while.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities. A person with Alzheimer’s may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.
What’s typical: Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.

10. Changes in mood and personality. The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
What’s typical: Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.

Anyone with questions about Alzheimer’s disease or seeking information should contact the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 toll-free Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org®. Experts are available to take calls from individuals concerned with their own cognitive health, as well as from family members and friends concerned about a family member and seeking resources.

Price introduces measure to increase literacy rates in public schools

Bill would improve third-grade reading proficiency across state

State Rep. Amanda Price today introduced legislation to create a “Third Grade Reading Guarantee” in Michigan’s public schools.

House Bill 5111 improves third-grade reading proficiency by requiring that students meet a minimum benchmark for advancement to the next grade level.

“Reading proficiency is one of the most important measurements in public education, and it is time we make this a top priority for our students,” said Price, R-Park Township. “Similar legislation has been proven effective in Florida and other states, where illiteracy rates have declined because of the Third Grade Reading Guarantee.

“If we fail to teach our students to read, we have failed them for the rest of their lives.”

A total of 32 states and the District of Columbia have policies in place to improve third grade reading proficiency, and 14 states require retention of students on the basis of reading proficiency. Most require assessment and remediation for kindergarten through third-grade students.

“Up until third grade, students are learning to read, but beginning in fourth grade, they being reading to learn,” said Price, R-Park Township. “This bill ensures a solid foundation is laid, so we can build a truly competitive, top-notch education on top of it.”

In 2012, 32 percent of third-graders did not meet the minimum reading proficiency benchmark, but less than 1 percent of the 113,000 third-graders in Michigan were retained in their public school.

House Bill 5111 was referred to the House Education Committee.

The Battle of the Bulge

By Dr. E. Kirsten Peters

We all know the basic medical facts: we should make healthy choices about what we eat and incorporate exercise into our busy lives. Most of the science of weight loss matches common sense. But it’s also true that more and more Americans are overweight or obese. As a nation, we are losing the battle of the bulge. How then can we motivate ourselves to address our ever-growing weight problem?

Recently published results from a study funded by Weight Watchers grabbed some headlines and offer some ideas. The fact the work was backed by Weight Watchers should be borne in mind as we consider the results of the study, but the funding source alone doesn’t mean the results are off base. According to The Los Angeles Times, the work was partially done by researchers at the Baylor College of Medicine, giving the study some independent authority.

The study took 292 people and enrolled half of them in Weight Watchers, the nation’s largest weight loss group that’s mostly built around face-to-face meetings. At the meetings, people (privately) weigh themselves and record their progress. Veterans of weight loss facilitate discussions about different topics relating to diet and exercise. People in the program record what they eat each day, either using pencil and paper or on-line.

The other half of the study’s 292 people were given a package of materials with advice for safe weight loss and sent on their way, alone. Essentially, they had a lot of the same information as the Weight Watchers group, but they had no formal social or emotional support system for what they were trying to accomplish.

Since they were participating in a study to try to lose weight, we can assume that all 292 participants had some basic motivation to shed pounds. But after six months, the difference between the two groups was clear: the people who had the support of the Weight Watchers system did much better than those sent home with the task of losing weight by themselves. At the end of six months, the folks in the Weight Watchers group were almost nine times more likely to have lost 10 percent of their body weight than those sent home to go it alone.

It seems that, at least for many people, group meetings can be useful in the battle of the bulge. That idea is also borne out by the fact that regular attendance at group meetings, according to the study, was the single best predictor of who would shed the most pounds.

We all face many daily temptations when it comes to what we eat. Whether you opt for a food diary and counting calories, a special diet like the low-carb regimen, group meetings such as those offered by Weight Watchers, or something else, what matters is that you find the path that works for you. Talk to your doctor and get started. Weight loss isn’t easy, as I know first hand. But if your health is being affected by carrying too many pounds, it has simply got to be done.

I’m pulling for you.

 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. 

Community Leaders Awarded as Local Agents of Change

Nine community leaders and initiatives have been recognized as the 2013 Agents of Change. Each year, the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce recognizes individuals or projects that have made a positive contribution to the Muskegon Lakeshore and awards them as Agents of Change.

This year’s Agents of Change were recognized at the Sixth Annual Agents of Change Business After Hours celebration, November 7, at Fricano Place.  Here, more than 200 business and community leaders gathered to celebrate.

“The Muskegon Lakeshore community has so much passion and each year we are amazed by the hard work, dedication, and activities these ‘Agents of Change’ bring to our area,” said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

“This program is a great opportunity for the members and projects of our community that go unnoticed to be recognized for the difference they are making,” said Gary Allore, CFO at Mercy Health and Chairman of the Board for the Muskegon Chamber. “It’s the work of these great community members that make Muskegon such a great place to live, work and play.”

Each year the Chamber partners with WGVU to host this event.  Each of this year’s recipients was interviewed by morning show host, Shelley Irwin. These interviews will air on WGVU FM (95.3 Muskegon, 88.5 Grand Rapids) from 10 – 11 am on Friday, November 22, 2013.

ABOUT THE 2013 AGENTS OF CHANGE

The Muskegon Angels LLC  – Angel Investment Group
The Muskegon Angels LLC, an Angel investment group, was formed in 2012. This group of businesses and economic development leaders are committed to entrepreneurial expansion. Their priority is to assist local businesses and attract other businesses to the area.  The members of the group, Larry Hines, Mike Olthoff, Paul Jackson, John Pridnia and Eric Seifert, started seeking investors for the LLC and currently have 24 committed individuals investing $25,000 per year for five years, which equates $600,000 per year. Their first investment in a new manufacturing company will take place this fall.

Capture Muskegon Public Art Murals – Capture Muskegon Committee
Walldogs, a group of world-class mural painters came to Muskegon after two years of campaigning by Bob Lukens, Director of the Muskegon Convention & Visitor’s Bureau. A committee including co-chairs Sherri Balaskovitz and Len Piasecki, and committee members, Judith Hayner, Bob Lukens, Cathy Bruebaker-Clarke and Ellen Berends put out a call for financial support. This call was answered by Eagle Alloy and the first mural, MUSKEGON PROUD, was dedicated in June 2013. A second mural, underwritten by Alcoa Foundation, MUSKEGON SOARS, was dedicated in September 2013.

Movies on the Beach – Kerry Halloran, winner of a Love Your Community $500 mini-grant
Movies are played during the summer at Pere Marquette Park, on Lake Michigan, where families can bring their beach chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy free movies. Screens and sound systems are donated and the Cinema Carousel Theater provides free popcorn. Kerry submitted an idea for Movies on the Beach to the Love Note grant program of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County and was a 2012 winner. Her $500 was used to create Movies on the Beach.

Tom Anderson – Advocate of non-motorized trails
Tom Anderson, owner of The Bicycle Rack in Muskegon and board member of the West Michigan Trails & Greenways Coalition, has been a long-time advocate of non-motorized trails. Tom has been instrumental in the grant approval process that has resulted in millions of dollars being spent to build and/or improve the trails of West Michigan. Tom’s experiences and connections with the railroad and as mayor pro-tem of North Muskegon have provided pathways and support that have been invaluable to the Coalition.

Carla Flanders  – Lakeshore Art Festival
In 2013, the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce took over the Art in the Park event with the goal to reinvent it to become a true arts festival. Carla Flanders, an outside consultant, was hired to take on this challenge. Her efforts were extremely successful and in a short period of time, Carla put together a committee of people who had prior festival experience as well as a strong volunteer contingent to assist with event logistics and to comfortably share ideas and opinions. The first year festival yielded more than 50,000 people in attendance over two days and plans are already underway for 2014.

Girls on the Run  – Melissa Reid
Girls on the Run is a positive youth development program which combines training for a 5k with an interactive curriculum to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles in 3rd through 8th grade girls. In fact, the Muskegon County program is one of the fastest growing Girls on the Run programs in the nation. During the 2012-2013 season, over 1,200 girls participated representing 39 schools in Muskegon County. Melissa and her husband brought this national curriculum to Whitehall 8 years ago. With Melissa’s leadership, the program has been rapidly growing.

VanKampen Boyer Molinari Foundation/Hampton Green Farm -Joan Mack
This family foundation is dedicated to the needs of non-profit organizations in Michigan and Florida. The foundation is focused on family and community welfare, the arts and equestrianism. Hampton Green Farm, a world class dressage training facility in Fruitport, is the Foundation’s host location for non-profit organizations to hold fundraising events in Michigan. The Boyers open their farm to 14 non-profit organizations every summer. The Foundation will pick up all costs associated to the event, with the non-profit keeping all of the proceeds. Over the last four years, hosted non-profit events at HGF have garnered $200,000 in revenue.

Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce  - Dancing with the Local Stars
Dancing with the Local Stars began in 2009 as a fundraiser for local food pantries. In five years, this event has raised over $310,405 benefiting more than thirty local organizations. DWLS is a local version of the nationally-known Dancing with the Stars. Stars are high-profile members of the community who volunteer their time practicing endless hours to entertain sell-out audiences. Planning and executing this event takes hundreds (maybe even thousands) of volunteer hours and about 50 committee and sub-committee members from WDCC.

Kid’s Food Basket – Kris Collee, Program Manager
One in four Michigan children goes hungry every day. Kids’ Food basket, based in Grand Rapids, helps children get nourished to be their best in school and in life through the Sack Supper program. Kids’ Food Basket is the only organization in West Michigan focused solely on childhood hunger. Muskegon was blessed to become the program’s first satellite operation. Today, two full-time employees and hundreds of volunteers and donors are packing and delivering 600 nutritious Sack Suppers EVERY DAY for children in our community’s most impoverished neighborhoods.

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.

Friends of Hackley Public Library

The Friends of Hackley Public Library of Muskegon, Michigan announces the launching of its new annual Corporate Sponsorship and Membership program. This program is designed to attract corporations, businesses and business professionals to join the Friends in its many fundraising efforts aimed at preserving and enhancing the venerable Hackley Public Library’s programs and facilities for the lasting benefit of the greater Muskegon community.

The Friends current project is to raise $100,000 to fund the development and furnishing of a community gathering space in the library’s lower level, creating a much-needed meeting facility in centrally located downtown Muskegon.

Several sponsor levels may be selected, each of which will provide recognition at one or all of four signature events held throughout the year – the Hackley Distinguished Lecture series, the annual Friends Book Sale, the Bling Thing jewelry sale and the member’s Candlelight Evening event. A Champion Sponsor level which includes all four signature events as well as a basic Corporate Member level are also available.

The Friends of Hackley Public Library was established in 1973 as an independent non-profit charitable 501(C)3 organization dedicated to promote, support and benefit the library through memberships, fund-raising projects, events and other activities designed to enrich our community.

For additional information contact Carolyn Madden, President at (231) 286- 3687 or
cmadden@aol.com.

Muskegon County to kick off Juvenile Transition Center Project

Bob Lukens, CDME

Muskegon, MI – Muskegon County will kick off construction for its new Juvenile Transition Center (JTC) by hosting a Groundbreaking Ceremony on Tuesday, December 3, 2013, at its new location at 205 E. Apple Avenue. The ceremony will begin at 3 p.m. and the public is invited to attend.

Currently, the JTC is located on a rural site 12 miles from downtown Muskegon. The new 25,000 square-foot facility will expand its capacity from 12 to 32 residents. The new facility will be built at the county’s Pine Street South Campus near other downtown county offices, with completion slated for September of 2014.

“We’re thrilled to see this project come to fruition” said Vernon Oard, Muskegon County Youth Services Director. “Having this new facility closer to other county services will greatly increase the treatment and support options for Muskegon County youth and their families.”

JuvenileCenter

The JTC, a Secure co-educational caring institution functions within the Muskegon County Department of Corrections, will look and feel different than the existing facility. For example, the new JTC will feature brick veneer and a pitched roof looking more residential than institutional, and interior spaces will feel more like living areas than confinement areas.

The new center will promote the county’s contemporary approach to juvenile rehabilitation with an enhanced focus on education. Individualized learning programs, substance abuse counseling, social skills, character development and recreational programs will give each person an opportunity to develop accountability and achieve personal growth.

“The goal is to provide a safe and secure environment that will allow these young people to transition back into their families and society so they can become successful students, citizens and employees,” said Oard.

Granger Construction Company will serve as Construction Manager for the new JTC and the Adult Detention Center project, designed by GMB Architects and Engineers of Holland, MI and Goldberg Group Architects, PC, a criminal justice architect from St. Joseph, Missouri.