MUSKEGON, Mich. – The 35th Annual Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame Induction ceremony was an opportunity to honor our local heroes and legends.

This year the Hall welcomed in four new members, another Distinguished Service Award winner and male and female student/athlete recipients of the year.

The 2022 Muskegon Area Sports Hall of Fame induction class is comprised of Philadelphia Eagles football player Todd Herremans of Ravenna, Muskegon Catholic Central football’s Mike Ribecky, Grand Haven two-sport standout Abby (Cole) Hatch and Oakridge multi-sport star Dr. Calvin Johnson were enshrined in the local sports Hall of Fame.

The foursome is joined by Gene Young Distinguished Award winner Ken Erny, longtime Fruitport Athletic Director and Hall of Fame soccer coach.

The 2022 High School Scholar Athlete Award winners are Abbie VanderKooi, Western Michigan Christian (Track) and Ira Jenkins, Whitehall High School (Wrestling).

The event was held at the Mercy Health Arena (formerly L.C. Walker Arena) on Saturday June 18, 2022.

“A grand slam class,” MASHF president Mike Mack said. “I am thrilled with this class. It’s amazing that after all these years, we still come up with this type of class.”

Todd Herremans started 126 of 135 games as an offensive lineman during his 11-year NFL career, all but one season with the Eagles. The 2001 Ravenna High School alumnus even caught two touchdown passes in his NFL career. At Ravenna, he was a four-sport athlete, who earned first-team all-state honors in football. Herremans blossomed as a football player at Saginaw Valley State University, where he earned first-team Associated Press Little All-America honors and Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year accolades. He was selected by the Eagles in the fourth round (126th overall) of the 2005 NFL draft. He retired in 2015.

Mike Ribecky is one of the rare local sports Hall of Famers who possesses credentials as a player and coach. The 1973 Muskegon Catholic Central graduate was a standout two-way lineman with the Crusaders. On a full-ride scholarship at Western Michigan University, Ribecky was a four-year starter at offensive tackle, where as a senior he helped the Broncos finish second in the nation in rushing yards and earned second-team All-Mid-American Conference honors. In his ongoing 44-year coaching tenure as an MCC assistant, Ribecky specializes as defensive coordinator and offensive line coach. “Bunny” has served as right-hand man for three different MASHF coaches and is approaching 400 wins with 12 state titles.

Abby Cole Hatch, a 2013 Grand Haven High School alumna, thrived in volleyball and basketball for the Buccaneers before she went on to become a second-team All-American in volleyball at University of Michigan. Widely considered the best female athlete to come from Grand Haven, the 6-foot-5 Hatch finished runner-up for Michigan’s Miss Volleyball in 2012 and led the Bucs to the state semifinals. She earned Under Armour second-team All-America honors. In basketball, Hatch powered Grand Haven to back-to-back Class A state championships in 2012 and 2013. As a senior, she was selected the Associated Press Class A Player of the Year and finished third in Miss Basketball voting. Hatch also played basketball at U-M.

Dr. Calvin Johnson was a four-sport star at Oakridge and went on to play point guard at Dartmouth despite his smallish stature at 5-foot-10, 150 pounds. The 1977 Oakridge High School alumnus earned Associated Press first-team all-state honors in basketball, he co-captained the Eagles’ football team as quarterback/running back/kicker, and he also excelled in track and cross country. Johnson was a Detroit Free Press honorable mention all-state QB as a senior, and he finished fifth in long jump at the state track meet that school year. He exceeded expectations at Dartmouth, earning accolades in various tournaments while majoring in a rigorous pre-med program.

Ken Erny spent 30 years as a universally respected AD at Fruitport and a Michigan High School Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame coach, who founded the sport at the school in 1990. In 19 years as the Trojans’ coach, he amassed a 242-133-20 record with several trips to the regional finals. As Fruitport’s AD, Erny oversaw the Trojans’ first three team state championships and a half-dozen individual state titlists. A self-described “workaholic,” Erny was not quite ready to retire but his ALS diagnosis in the summer of 2020 forced him to step down. In October 2020, Fruitport’s soccer field was dedicated to him, now called Ken Erny Field.

Abby VanderKooi captured four consecutive state championships as a cross country runner for the Warriors from 2018-21. She became only the eighth female cross-country athlete in MHSAA history to win an individual state championship four times.

Ira Jenkins dominated on the wrestling mat this past winter, as he finished a perfect 52-0 record in the heavyweight division for the Vikings to win back-to-back individual state championships.

On June 1st 2022, the Michigan Supreme Court issued an Administrative Order amending the Michigan Court Rules to include Juneteenth (June19th) on the list of holidays recognized by the state’s trial courts. The order was given immediate effect. As a result of this amendment, all Muskegon County district, circuit, probate, and family court hearings previously scheduled for Monday, June 20th 2022 are being adjourned and rescheduled to a later date in observance of this court holiday. Those with hearings scheduled on Monday, June 20th will receive a written notice of adjournment along with a new date and time to appear. All notices will be sent to the address previously provided to the court. All court services, including the offices of the Muskegon County Clerk and Circuit Court Records, will be closed on Monday, June 20th. However, certain county offices located within the Hall of Justice such as the Sheriff’s Office, Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and County Administration, will be staffed and will remain open to the public.

submitted by the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective

This Saturday!
LVAC artists are transforming an old boat warehouse in Muskegon into a one-night, pop-up, art gallery.
Join us at Adelaide Pointe for live music, food trucks, cash bar, and lots of great art by regional jewelers, painters, photographers, ceramicists, glass artists, and more.

Bloomfield Hills, Michigan – Michigan Pet Alliance (MPA) announces the 2022 grants and awards program for animal shelters, nonprofit rescues and animal welfare organizations in Michigan. This year’s theme is The New Normal.

“The COVID-19 pandemic forced our state’s animal shelters to reexamine how they operate,” said Joe Dobesh, MPA CEO. “For such a long time, animal shelters and rescues have not had the time to pause and evaluate tasks and processes to decide if they could be done differently, better, more efficiently or, perhaps, not at all.

“The changes caused by the pandemic resulted in new perspectives that are leading the animal welfare industry closer to its ultimate mission of lifesaving.”

MPA invites Michigan licensed shelters, as well as nonprofit rescue and animal welfare organizations, to apply for any or all grant awards.

This year’s categories and awards:

• The New Normal in Community Outreach: $3,000
• The New Normal in Creative Programs: $2,000
• The New Normal in Fundraising: $2,000
• Standard Operating Procedures / Documents (two awards): $500 each
• On-site Cat Care Training Grant: $1,000 value
• Karen Brocklehurst Volunteer of the Year Award: $100 gift card (nominee must be an MPA member)

“Michigan Pet Alliance values the continuous efforts and hard work of our state’s shelters and animal welfare advocates,” said Deborah Schutt, MPA chairperson. “Education and advocacy are pillars of our mission to speak with one voice to improve lifesaving and standards of care for our state’s pets. Through our annual awards program, we honor and reward those who adapted to change to save more lives.”

Grant awards are made possible thanks to the generosity of the Humane Society of Macomb Foundation.

There is no cost to apply for any of the grant awards. The deadline for applications is Thursday, June 30, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern, at this link https://www.michiganpet.org/about/mpa-awards/2022-mpa-awards-the-new-normal/. Winners will be notified in August.

Michigan Pet Alliance
Michigan’s only professional trade association of animal welfare organizations, the mission of Michigan Pet Alliance is to work in collaboration and to speak with a single voice to eliminate abuse and neglect of Michigan’s companion animals and to save all healthy and treatable homeless companion animals through training, technical assistance, education and advocacy. For more information, please visit MichiganPet.org and follow @MichiganPetAlliance on Facebook.

GRAND HAVEN, MI – On Thursday June 23, 2022 the Grand Haven Musical Fountain Committee with the Friends of the Musical Fountain, Inc. will host the unveiling of a commemorative work honoring the 60-year history of Musical Fountain operations

The work was created by Chris LaPorte, a Grand Rapids based artist and 2010 winner of ArtPrize.  As part of the Musical Fountain’s 60^th anniversary fundraising efforts, prints and posters in varying sizes and formats will be on sale after the unveiling event (www.ghfountain.org/art).

“The Grand Haven Musical Fountain has been a summer spectacle destination for generations now.  So many people have shared their family memories of enjoying the nightly show since I began the drawing.   The Fountain itself is awesome.  And, what the Fountain does and continues to do for the community is also amazing.   Capturing the mutual experience of the community over decades is part of what I’m trying to capture with this drawing.”- Chris LaPorte

A copy of the original work along with other artifacts from the Musical Fountain’s 60-year history will be on display in the Tri-Cities Museum window at 200 Washington Ave in Grand Haven through August.  Because of limited space, parties interested in attending the unveiling should contact the Musical Fountain Committee at info@ghfountain.org.

The Grand Haven Musical Fountain is beloved landmark of the City of Grand Haven that presents a creatively synchronized combination of lights and water with popular musical selections.  Free nightly shows occur at dusk from Memorial Day to Labor Day with weekend shows in May and September (www.ghfountain.org/showtimes).  Fountain operations and maintenance are a joint effort of the City of Grand Haven and an all-volunteer Musical Fountain Committee.

The Friends of the Musical Fountain, Inc. is a newly formed non-profit organization [501 (c)(3)] committed to creating sustainable funding for the maintenance and future enhancements to the Fountain (www.ghfountain.org/friends).

A free 60th Anniversary celebration is being held on August 27^th at the Lynne Sherwood Stadium and will include the debut of another water feature enhancement to the Fountain (www.ghfountain.org/60years)!

(MUSKEGON, MI) – The State Court Administrative Office’s Child Welfare Services Division and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are planning to celebrate successful efforts at family reunification as part of Michigan’s contribution to National Reunification Month in June. The Muskegon County Courts, sponsored by the Muskegon County Bar Association, will celebrate Reunification Day on Thursday, June 16th in an effort to recognize families and the many professionals who support them in having their children successfully returned home from foster care. Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth M. Welch will be the Keynote Speaker. Awards will be presented by Chief Judge Pittman and Justice Welch. 1) The Honorable John C. Ruck Award for Outstanding Dedication to Reunification will be presented to Muskegon County Foster Care Workers. 2) The Honorable Neil G. Mullally Award for Outstanding Reunification Services will be presented to foster families. In addition, the celebration aims to recognize and honor all families that have been reunified.

submitted by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

The following is a statement by Larry Romanelli, Ogema of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in response to the announcement by Governor Whitmer that she will not approve the Tribes $200 million casino project in Fruitport Township in Muskegon County.

“Our Tribal members are absolutely devastated that Governor Whitmer has decided to not approve our casino development in Fruitport Township. This project would have created and supported 3,000 jobs for Tribal members and families in the community along with providing funds for healthcare and housing. Our tribe has worked hand-in-hand with the Muskegon Community for the past twelve years to gain approval from the Federal Government and State Government. Words cannot express how thankful we are for our community’s support and the disappointment we feel for them. Our tribe is proud that over the last 12 years, we did everything right. The project has been supported by the Obama, Trump and Biden Presidential administrations along with the Granholm and Snyder Gubernatorial administrations. We received approvals from the Department of Interior and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. We met all the criteria required for approval. And while we disagree completely with Governor Whitmer’s decision, we respect that she has the authority to make it. For now, The Muskegon Casino Project has concluded.”

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – RedWater purchased Muskegon Country Club (located at 2801Lakeshore Drive in Muskegon) in summer 2021 and has been working hard on renovations for a new public restaurant and updated event venue at its facilities. RedWater is excited to announce that the grand opening of Lake Bluff Grille restaurant will be June 15, 2022, upon completion of its expansive, covered deck.

In order to improve the dining experience at Muskegon Country Club for both its golf club members and guests, RedWater has made major renovations to the facility including relocating the placement of the restaurant within the building to offer generous space for diners, building a large wrap-around bar at the center of the restaurant, adding a feature wine wall with wine locker storage for guests, and expanding and covering the deck for extended access to outdoor dining. The new restaurant will have a modern and contemporary interior design with an inviting and warm feel. RedWater Chief Operating Officer Craig Smith said, “Muskegon Country Club has been a staple of Muskegon and the surrounding community since 1908, so it was very important to us to research and develop a design and restaurant concept that appeals to the Muskegon community, visitors to the area, and our current members of Muskegon Country Club. We are extremely excited to invite diners to see our brand-new restaurant that will be open to the public starting on June 15, following a ribbon cutting with the Muskegon Chamber of Commerce.”

The new restaurant is named after its location on the bluff overlooking Muskegon Lake. Both the new Lake Bluff Grille and renovated Muskegon Country Club event venue will have outstanding views of the golf course and views of Muskegon Lake from an expansive covered deck. RedWater Director of Marketing Leanne Stoll said, “Lake Bluff Grille will transform the dining experience at Muskegon Country Club by celebrating the beautiful waterfront scenery and the deliciousness of contemporary American fare. With brilliant views of Muskegon Lake and the endless green of our golf course, we hope that Lake Bluff Grille will bring new life and new flavors to the historic Muskegon Country Club.” Lake Bluff Grille will be featuring live music every Thursday and Friday evening during the summer to add to the relaxing, yet upbeat vibes of the patio setting.

The menu at Lake Bluff Grille will offer New American style cuisine with a wide range of handcrafted appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees. The menu will also feature a RedWater Restaurants guest-favorite: Entrees that are served on 500-degree fire rocks, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. The signature fire rocks allow guests to cook food to the temperature of their liking while keeping their meals hot and flavorful. RedWater Director of Food and Beverage Darren Rehfeld said, “We are excited to offer a unique dining concept not found anywhere else in Muskegon, combined with an ambiance that is second to none. The unbeatable views of the lake and bluffs from our new deck paired with Lake Bluff Grille’s delicious food and drink offerings are sure to impress.”

In addition to the major restaurant renovations, RedWater has made upgrades to the Muskegon Country Club event venue. The venue will still seat around 150 people indoors, but there will be added space for weddings and other events on the new, covered deck. The deck will also serve as a space to host meetings and small events outside. A new reception courtyard area off the patio will provide even more outdoor space for events.

RedWater will also be growing its Live Golf Studios brand with the addition of golf simulators in the restaurant and event venue area at Muskegon Country Club. The simulators will feature state-of-the-art technology and will offer access to more than 100 golf courses, various challenge games, multiple practice ranges, and arcade games to provide fun for the whole family. LiveGolf Studios will be open to the public during the fall and winter months and the simulators will be available as an add-on service for private events.

RedWater owners and staff are excited to expand their group to the Muskegon community and open the new Lake Bluff Grille restaurant. Smith said, “We are thrilled to grow our group yet again and look forward to bringing more jobs and opportunities to the area. Our well-trained team takes pride in offering great food, service, and a relaxed environment within each of our restaurants.”

Additional information including the complete menu, live music schedule, and private event booking information for Lake Bluff Grille can be viewed online at lakebluffgrille.com.

MUSKEGON, MI – Join Arbor Circle as we host Is the Village Still Valid: The Future of Fatherhood in Black & Brown Communities on June 15th, 2022 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at Muskegon Community College’s Collegiate Hall. This in-person presentation and panel discussion will amplify the role of fathers, particularly Black and Brown fathers. Hear directly from our featured speaker, Cole Williams, and a panel of fathers as they discuss their lived experience and how the community can support them as parents. Cole Williams, a dedicated father and founder of the Delta Project, has spent his career mentoring men and boys of color.

This event is sponsored by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County and Muskegon Community College. The keynote presentation starts at 3:00pm, with a panel discussion and Q+A to follow. This event is open to the community and free to attend, but please register for the event below using the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/is-the-village-still-valid-the-future-of-fatherhood-in-black-communities-registration-311449041467

Arbor Circle provides mental health counseling, substance use treatment, family development support, adoption and foster care services, prevention programming and quality child care resources and referral services. The organization is well established in the West Michigan area with deep roots in our community and locations in 5 counties (Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, Allegan, and Ottawa), and serves thousands of children, adults and families each year.
Website: https://arborcircle.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arborcircleorg

Muskegon, MI – The Howmet Aerospace Foundation and Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) are pleased to announce that the Foundation has awarded a $200,000 grant to support new and expanded STEM education for Muskegon area students. Funds will be used to establish The Howmet Center for Sustainable Science and Technology, which will allow Muskegon Community College and Muskegon Area Intermediate School District students to gain greater exposure and access to STEM education using food processing and food science. Programming will include in-class lectures and lab coursework at the new Food, Agriculture, Research, Manufacturing (FARM) food processing business accelerator on the campus of Muskegon Community College. These offerings will integrate with the MSU/MCC food processing degree and certificate programs (https://www.muskegoncc.edu/degrees-and-certificates/areas-of-study/food-processing-technology/).  K-12 programs will be held at several West Michigan schools beginning this spring and fall, 2022.

“Our region’s businesses, especially our manufacturers, continue to struggle to find workers with STEM-related skills, and graduating students who have been exposed to STEM is the way to address this issue long-term,” said GMED Director of Business Development Morgan Carroll. “We need to be creative about how we engage students with STEM, so they understand that these jobs not only pay well, they are interesting and rewarding as well.”

The concept is to build students’ STEM skills by introducing them to the chemistry, engineering and math associated with food processing. Chemistry is the science behind the taste, texture and consistency of food. Engineering and technology are the basis of designing and building food processing equipment and sustainable food production systems. Math is an essential part of food formulas, scaling recipes, and setting up and programming food production lines. The goal is to build a pipeline of STEM talent by sparking students’ interest in how and why things work using food, which creates opportunities for them to move into all types of STEM-related jobs and industries from there.

Amy Heisser, Director of Human Resources for Howmet Aerospace, said this is just the latest example of how the company’s Whitehall operations has been supporting community partnerships for more than seven decades. “This grant continues our long tradition of supporting the community while also investing in the next generation of skilled workers. As a company that relies on the technical expertise of employees, Howmet Aerospace understands the importance of providing students access to STEM education opportunities. Muskegon County is also of particular importance to us because our engines business unit is headquartered here. This is why the company, through the Howmet Aerospace Foundation, supports community-based programs like the FARM accelerator that play a critical role in educating our future workforce.”

The FARM food processing business accelerator is owned by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County and managed by the Michigan State University Product Center.

About Howmet Aerospace Foundation
Howmet Aerospace Foundation invests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education outreach, technical education programs and workforce development initiatives, with a goal of increasing the access of underrepresented communities to STEM disciplines. It is an independently endowed foundation which directs a significant portion of its grantmaking each year to nonprofit organizations in communities around the world to develop partnerships and strategies that address community needs and interests where Howmet Aerospace has operating facilities. Howmet Aerospace is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. It further enhances Howmet’s inclusive work environment by investing in programs that support diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit www.howmet.com/foundation. Follow the Foundation on Twitter and Facebook.

About Greater Muskegon Economic Development
Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) was founded in 1999 and is the countywide economic development agency dedicated to supporting local business. GMED’s focus is to leverage public and private investment to accelerate business growth and the creation of high-quality employment opportunities in Muskegon County. Appreciating the importance of our local business community, GMED serves as a clearinghouse of information on programs and incentives available to your business. Learn more at https://www.developmuskegon.org/.

About the MSU Product Center
The MSU Product Center helps Michigan entrepreneurs and businesses develop and launch new product into the food, agriculture, natural resource and bioenergy markets.  The Product Center facilitates innovation by customizing services to each client utilizing a statewide network of university, business and governmental partners that offer vast and varied technical expertise, research, and outreach services.  Visit the Product Center’s website at https://www.canr.msu.edu/productcenter/.

MUSKEGON, MI — The Muskegon Area District Library, MADL, kicks off its annual Summer Reading Program starting June 13 and ending in August. Libraries across the nation encourage children, youth, and families to keep reading during the summer to help children maintain their reading skills.

All ages can participate in entertaining programs and have the chance to win fantastic prizes by joining the program and tracking their reading. The public is invited to join in many fun and special summer events at their local library, including movies, games, music, books, and something for everyone.

Families can choose multiple locations, to enjoy the free programs repeated at MADL branches. Magic, animals, music, games, and crafts are offered. A variety of great Teen programs are planned where they can hang out with friends in great new completely renovated spaces. A complete schedule of live entertainment at branches includes Maciek the Magician, John Ball Traveling Zoo, music with Rick Kelly and the Outdoor Discovery Center as follows:

Mondays:       10:30 am Montague Branch
                          1:00 pm Holton Branch
                          3:00 pm Dalton Branch
Tuesdays:      10:30 am Ravenna Branch
                          1:00 pm Egelston Branch
                          3:00 pm Muskegon Heights Branch
Wednesdays: 10:30 am North Muskegon Branch
                          1:00 pm Muskegon Township Branch
                          3:00 pm Norton Shores Branch

Special Juneteenth programs will also be held:
June 16 – Story Trail Celebration, Bethlehem Park, Muskegon Heights
June 19 – Community Celebration exhibitor, Mona Lake Park, Muskegon Heights
June 22 – Juneteenth 101, panel discussion with local educators, Norton Shores branch

For a complete list of summer reading programs, visit, madl.org/Summer Reading

Norton Shores, MI – Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) is pleased to announce that the City of Norton Shores has approved a 12-year tax abatement for local manufacturer Seal Bond for their new 200,000 square foot production facility at 1251 East Mt. Garfield Rd. in Norton Shores. Seal Bond produces industrial adhesives, sealants and coatings for a variety of industries, including product assembly, construction, and raised access flooring. The company expects to begin operations at the new location sometime this summer. 

Seal Bond President/General Manager Scott Carmichael said all of the company’s approximately 80 employees will move to the new facility. They also anticipate hiring an additional 20 employees over the next two years. “We have experienced significant growth due to the construction boom and our recent entry into new markets. As a result, we now find ourselves shoehorned in our current space,” he said.  “Our new location gives us room to expand, and its proximity to US-31 is also more convenient for our employees, most of whom live in the Muskegon area. We believe this improved accessibility will also make it easier to attract new team members in the future.”

Norton Shores Mayor Gary Nelund added that the Seal Bond abatement was approved with a unanimous vote, and the City is excited to welcome them to the community. “We continue to see interest from businesses looking to relocate or expand because of Norton Shores’ property values and easy access to two major highways. Our city council is receptive to offering tax abatements, one of the few economic development tools still available to local municipalities, especially when we see a company like Seal Bond ready to make a significant investment in our community.”

Seal Bond will initially lease a portion of the new space to another area manufacturer in need of additional production capacity. However, Carmichael explained that the company’s long-term strategy is to occupy the entire space as they experience continued growth down the road. “We applaud Seal Bond for not only taking steps to address their current growth, but also taking into account where they want to be many years from now,” added GMED Director of Business Growth Morgan Carroll. “We hope other area businesses will follow their example and think long-range about their manufacturing capabilities, as well as how they want to be positioned to be able to attract the talent they’ll need to achieve their goals.”

About Seal Bond
Seal Bond manufactures and develops high performance adhesives, sealants and coatings for OEM and construction applications. The Seal Bond team takes great pride in building lasting relationships by providing state-of-the-art technical solutions and exceptional performance.  From environmental safety to technological advancements, Seal Bond products succeed where others have failed. Speed and flexibility in formulating, testing and delivering products set Seal Bond apart – close to home and around the world.  Learn more about the company, including career opportunities at https://seal-bond.com/.

About Greater Muskegon Economic Development
Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) was founded in 1999 and is the countywide economic development agency dedicated to supporting local business. GMED’s focus is to leverage public and private investment to accelerate business growth and the creation of high-quality employment opportunities in Muskegon County. Appreciating the importance of our local business community, GMED serves as a clearinghouse of information on programs and incentives available to your business. Learn more at https://www.developmuskegon.org/.

Rep. Huizenga News Conference Announcing Legislation to Bring Muskegon’s Community Health Coverage Model to More Communities – Supporting Small Business and Workers

MUSKEGON, MI ‐ Congressman Bill Huizenga announced the introduction of the Community Multi‐Share Coverage Program Act at a special event on Friday, June 3, 2022, at the office of Access Health in Muskegon. Huizenga’s legislation will fund national replication of Muskegon County’s Access Health Coverage program, considered one of the most innovative and successful approaches to addressing health care access in the nation.

For over two decades, the Access Health plan has locally provided an affordable and robust coverage option for small businesses and their workers unable to access commercial coverage due to cost barriers. Through partnership with Trinity Health Muskegon, the model’s success has enjoyed national recognition as a proven solution to ensure as many people as possible in Muskegon County have access to affordable healthcare.

Today, communities need solutions such as Access Health ‐ a unique and well‐tested model of coverage in Muskegon that the nation can embrace. There is growing interest in its replication, particularly as emergency federal coverage supports implemented during COVID‐19 expire. This legislation will help fund a critical needed expansion and continue to put Muskegon County on the map as a community committed to local innovation and the wellbeing of all residents.

Rep. Huizenga was joined at the news conference and event by community stakeholder attendees, including:

•  Jack Russell, President of Rolar Industries and Chair of the Muskegon Heights Business Association
•  Kathy Moore, Director of Public Health Muskegon County
•  Gary Allore, President, Trinity Health Muskegon
•  Park Kersman, CEO Lorin Industries
•  Emily Morgenstern, Marketing Director, Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce

Other local officials representing Muskegon County government and the City of Muskegon Heights were also in attendance.

Jeff Fortenbacher, Executive Director of Access Health, believes that this is the right time for expanding the multi‐share model approach. “I see so much potential for Access Health as an affordable option for small businesses trying to hire and retain a workforce in today’s tight market” Fortenbacher said. “This is a program that helps reboot local economies, which require a strong and vital small business sector. We hear it all the time – businesses today face massive hiring challenges, which limit their ability to keep regular hours or provide their pre‐COVID service level. The ability to offer coverage like Access Health can be a game changer for these small businesses, their workers, and our communities.”

“Access Health helps small business workers,” Fortenbacher continued. “We can make a difference with a commonsense approach to health coverage that removes financial barriers to economic mobility. Our plan provides a necessary bridge to economic independence for people as they take that first step away from Medicaid and other government support. As our team works in partnership with our members to improve their health, we recognize that economic mobility is a critical element of health.” Established in 1999, Access Health provides affordable community coverage to eligible small businesses and their workers. One of the only community coverage models of its type in the nation, Access Health’s legacy work includes its nationally recognized multi‐share health plan and regional management of Michigan’s State Medical Plan, a previous Medicaid expansion effort.

To learn more, visit www.accesshealth.org.

Muskegon, MI – Taste of Muskegon returns to Hackley Park on June 10th and 11th for its 16th year with a few new twists. 

The party will continue on June 11th with an after party at Burl & Sprig deemed A Funny After Taste. Zank Comedy has a lineup of comedians to entertain while patrons sip on a special Taste of Muskegon cocktail. The party runs 10 PM-2 AM, with standup comedians taking the stage at 11. 

After a successful debut of the Craft Cocktail tent last year at the festival, the offering of drinks will expand to include Wonderland Distilling Co. gin and tonics. The Wonderland Distilling Co. whiskey and gingerbeer and Burl & Sprig rum and cola will be served again this year. 

Taste is also taking a greener approach to the event. This is the second year of a multi-year plan in partnership with West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum and GVSU Environmental Studies to build a more sustainable festival. Through the generosity of Bin There Dump That, the festival has been able to increase its recycling efforts. This year, a sorting tent will be added to pull out compostables and recyclables, including a TerraCycle box to recycle disposable utensils. Waning Moon and Continuum Salon are providing resources to add cigarette recycling. 

Taste of Muskegon is honored to host members of the Japanese consulate in Detroit in honor of Muskegon’s relationship with our sister city of Omuta, Japan. Mayor Johnson will make a proclamation on Saturday at 6 pm to celebrate over 25 years of friendship. 

“For years, people have asked to have Taste go longer, and A Funny After Taste is a great way to answer that call. We love the chance to send people directly to a local restaurant which is what Taste is all about,” said Lisa Kraus, Director of Marketing for Taste of Muskegon. “It’s such an honor to welcome the Japanese delegate. We have been told that they decided to extend their stay in Muskegon to attend the festival and are excited to try a Taste of the best Muskegon has to offer. It’s a great opportunity for cultural exchange.” 

Taste of Muskegon will take place on June 10th and 11th in Hackley Park. It is produced by the Downtown Development Authority and through the generosity of sponsors including Rair, DTE and Mart Dock. The festival features over 30 local restaurants and food trucks. Headlining the event is The Accidentals on Saturday and Starlight City on Friday night. Saturday will begin with United Way’s annual Ride United biking event. Awards for Taste of Muskegon’s best plates will take place Saturday afternoon and includes both judge and public votes. To learn more about the music, restaurants, and events at Taste of Muskegon 2022, visit their website at www.tasteofmuskegon.org.

Muskegon Heights, MI: Muskegon Heights is Reaching New Heights. The New Heights 2-year campaign is focusing in 2022 on the effort to fight blight! Beginning May 21, the City of Muskegon Heights, together with its community partners, is presenting a summer-long clean-up campaign entitled, “Beautify the Heights, Help Fight Blight”. This community empowerment-driven clean-up is engaging residents, businesses, community stakeholders, and volunteers to help curb blight and beautify all sections of the city throughout the city’s entire summer. Each cleanup event will be repeated on the 3rd Saturday of the month, having started in May, and continuing until the end of August.

Each month, the campaign will focus on four zones within the city. On May 21, the kick-off event started with utility trailers in each zone.
A growing list of community partners includes, but is not limited to, the City of Muskegon Heights, United Way of Lakeshore, Community Foundation for Muskegon County, Muskegon Heights Business Association, Gaining Unity through Non-Violent Solutions, West Michigan Lake Hawks in Flight Foundation, Inc., Overcoming Barriers Inc., Coalition for Community Development, Mission for Area People, Taking Back Muskegon, LADS Reforestation Project, Shiba Sequoia Forest, Read Muskegon, 10,000 Fearless Muskegon, the Muskegon Heights Neighborhood Association, and more.

Our community partners have designated captains to oversee the operations for each zone and event. The dates for each upcoming event are June 18, July 16, and August 20 from 8 am to 2 pm. The Community Captains are:

• Michelle Tyson – Taking Back Muskegon;
• Kaja Thornton-Hunter – US Café/Overcoming Barriers;
• Contessa Hood – Muskegon Heights Business Association;
• Julius Muhammad – 10,000 Fearless Muskegon and
• Calvin Davis – City of Muskegon Heights

Residents are encouraged to participate by cleaning and beautifying their yards; mowing and edging their lawns, and spreading their cleanup attention and efforts throughout their neighborhoods. Because sharing is caring, residents are encouraged to share their lawn equipment, garden tools, and expertise with neighbors who are seniors or may have special needs.

City Manager Troy Bell, “Blight threatens public safety, challenges water infrastructure, impacts road maintenance, lowers property values, and degrades the quality of life for all. We are Reaching New Heights! Our neighborhoods can and will become safer, cleaner, and more beautiful places for all of us to live if we commit to working together! Unity, Focus, and Vision is the Key!”

Go to bit.ly/BeautifyTheHeights2022 for the neighborhood specifics of concern and common meet-up location.

Muskegon, MI – Taste of Muskegon is returning to Hackley Park for its 16th year on June 10th and 11th. The event will feature over 30 local restaurants and food trucks.

Restaurant Row will have several of the Taste of Muskegon 2021 Taste Plate Award winners, including:

• Tiki Boiz – People’s Choice Award, Best Taste Award, Sustainability Award
• Burl & Sprig – Best New Bite Award, Best Lite Bite Award
• Bone Ends – Best Beer and Bacon Award

New this year to Taste of Muskegon, though not all are new to Muskegon:

• Melt Gourmet Sandwiches
• Pennant Pizza & Wings
• Pierogi Shack
• The Hideout
• Unruly Kitchen

There will be many Taste favorites back in the park:

• Abeshi Ghanaian Cuisine
• Aldea Coffee
• Aloha Hawaiian Shave Ice
• Carlson’s Almonds
• Corine’s Cakes & Catering
• Curry Kitchen and Naan Pizza
• DaKidd BBQ & Catering
• Dr. Rolf’s BBQ
• Fatty Lumpkins
• Frostbite Shaved Ice
• G&L Chili Dogs
• Hamburger Mikey
• Happy Matt’s Kettlecorn
• Ice Box Brand Ice Cream Bars
• Mylan’s Waterfront Grille
• Navarro’s Mexican Takeout
• OVK BBQ
• Rad Dad’s Tacos & Tequila
• Sutton Concessions
• The Only Cannoli
• Uncle Bill’s Taco Wagon
• Wonderland Distilling Co.
• Yodels Frozen Yogurt

“The restaurants and food trucks have put together some incredible menus this year. We are continually awed by the culinary talent in Muskegon,” said Lisa Kraus, Marketing Director of Taste of Muskegon. “We always look forward to bringing our community together to celebrate a Taste of all Muskegon has to offer.”

Taste of Muskegon, produced by the Downtown Development Authority, will take place on June 10th and 11th in Hackley Park. On Saturday, United Way’s Ride United will begin and end at Taste of Muskegon. Awards for Taste of Muskegon’s best plates will take place Saturday afternoon and include both judged and public votes. To learn more about the restaurants and events at Taste of Muskegon 2022, visit their website at www.tasteofmuskegon.org.

Manistee, Mich. — Next Tuesday, May 31, the Stellantis Corporation is expected to announce that they will open their new battery plant in Kokomo, Indiana and not Michigan. While that is heartbreaking news, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians stands ready to fill the gap by providing 3,000 new jobs in the Muskegon area. 

Governor Whitmer has the power to create 1500 construction jobs and 1500 permanent jobs at the Casino with a stroke of her pen. The Casino project was approved by the Federal Government seventeen months ago and is just waiting for the Governor’s concurrence. And unlike the Stellantis battery plant, the jobs and economic development project will not cost the state taxpayers a dime.

“We join the state leaders in their disappointment over the loss of the Stellantis battery plant,” Said Larry Romanelli, Tribal Ogema of the Little River Band. “But we stand ready to super-charge the local economy by supplying 3,000 jobs with full benefits to the state at no costs to the taxpayers of Michigan.”

The final approval for the Casino, to be located in Fruitport Township in Muskegon County – is on the Governor’s desk. The Casino has overwhelming support from the community and is supported by business and labor, Democrats and Republicans, and Federal, state and local governments. The Tribe has been working on the project for the past 12 years. 

“With the Governor’s sign-off, we can create 3,000 jobs and the initial work can begin in months,” said Larry Romanelli. 

Tribal casino facts:
• Investment of $180 – $200 million dollars
• State Revenues: $15 million per year
• Local Revenues: More than $3 million a year.
• Expected to attract over 1.8 million visitors per year

Muskegon County Conservative Women’s Caucus will host three Republican US Congressional Candidates at their June 2 Gathering at Smart Vision Lights (5113 Robert Hunter Drive in Norton Shores).  The meeting takes place at 6:30 p.m., and both women and men are encouraged to attend.

The following candidates will offer a short presentation on their views and values:  John Gibbs (3rd Congressional district), Peter Meijer (running again for 3rd congressional district), Tom Norton (2nd Congressional District).  John Moolenar (2nd Congressional District) is unable to attend this meeting, but will have a representative present.  Mr. Moolenar will be available at our July 7 gathering.  After their presentations, the candidates will be available to answer questions.

We encourage you to come prepared with questions on issues that are important to you.  This is a valuable opportunity to familiarize yourself with the candidates who will be representing you, and decide which candidate will earn your vote in the August 2 primary.

MCCWC’s July gathering will also feature candidates for the 2022 election, including John Moolenaar, Rick Outman, and others.  All gatherings take place the first Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Smart Vision Lights, 5113 Robert Hunter Drive in Norton Shores.  For more information, please visit www.muskegonconservativewomen.org or call 231-673-4597.

Guests will see a number of improvements and upgrades, and return of long-time favorites

Michigan’s Adventure, the region’s largest amusement park, opens on May 27 to kick off a 2022 season filled with family fun and adventure.

Guests will notice a number of improvements and upgrades, including:

• Updates to Mad Mouse and Corkscrew with new color palettes.

• A new dining experience and updated menu at the park’s 50s-themed restaurant, Coasters. The new serving counters and guest seating will elevate service to a higher level of speed and satisfaction.

• A completely renovated Corner Store, located near the entrance to the park. New flooring, fixtures, store entrance and merchandise will provide guests with enhanced shopping atmosphere as they choose the perfect souvenir as a memento of their visit.

“Our staff is very excited to welcome guests back for our 2022 season,” says Camille Jourden-Mark, Vice President and General Manager. “Our purpose is to make people happy and we’re looking forward to providing another season of fun and lifelong memories for our guests.”

Camp Snoopy, a Peanuts®-themed kids’ area, is ready to welcome campers back to the park. The area features five family rides, including Pigpen’s® Mud Buggies, Peanuts® Trailblazers, Beagle Scout Lookout and Camp Bus. Little thrill seekers can join parents and grandparents on Woodstock Express, a family roller coaster with plenty of ups and downs.

Fan-favorite Funland Farm returns for the 2022 season as well. The interactive area offers a variety of farm animals for guests to meet. Furry friends include goats, alpacas, llamas, chickens and more.

Home to Thunderhawk and Shivering Timbers, Michigan’s Adventure also offers a variety of thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides. Thunderhawk is Michigan’s only suspended looping roller coaster, and Shivering Timbers consistently offers maximum airtime to the most adventurous guests. Half Pint Paradise and Beach Party are waiting to thrill young families at WildWater Adventure Water Park. Guests seeking larger thrills will want to visit Funnel of Fear or one of the park’s three wave pools. WildWater Adventure opens June 11.

A Michigan’s Adventure Season Pass is a must for the 2022 season, currently being offered at its lowest price in years. At an online cost of only $79, plus applicable fees, a season pass provides a whole summer of fun. This special pricing is only available online through June 12.

Michigan’s Adventure is exclusively cashless for all transactions. The cashless transactions are safe, quick and will significantly improve the guest experience at dining, retail and point-of-sale spots throughout the park. Guests who bring cash to the park can convert it into a prepaid debit card that can be used anywhere – not just inside the park – with no fees. For more information on the cashless program at Michigan’s Adventure, visit miadventure.com/cashless.

For more information about Michigan’s Adventure call 231-766-9959, or visit www.miadventure.com for a complete operating schedule of both parks.

About Michigan’s Adventure
Michigan’s Adventures is Michigan’s largest amusement park and water park with more than 60 world-class rides, slides, unique attractions and special events throughout the season. Located just north of Muskegon, Michigan’s Adventure offers fun for the entire family, including Camp Snoopy and WildWater Adventure Waterpark. It is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company.

About Cedar Fair

Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world, is a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 13 properties, consisting of 11 amusement parks, four separately gated outdoor water parks, and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. Cedar Fair’s parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Texas and Toronto, Ontario.

Little River Thanks Community for Their Support

Manistee, Mich. — With less than four weeks before Governor Whitmer’s deadline to decide the fate of the Tribe’s proposed Muskegon Casino Project in Fruitport Township, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians (LRBOI) expressed their appreciation to the Muskegon community for their overwhelming support for the casino project over the past ten years. On Friday, May 20, Muskegon community leaders are holding a rally at the proposed casino site at 11:00 am and the tribe is appreciative of their efforts.

“The Community support we have received for this project has been truly heartwarming,” said Larry Romanelli, Tribal Ogema of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. “As we reach the final weeks, the Tribe would like to thank everyone for their support and work on our behalf. We thank Congressman Huizenga for his work to obtain Federal approval. We are also appreciative of Representative Terry Sabo for leading our efforts with Governor Whitmer and Senator Jon Bumstead for his work to rally the community in support. We would also like to thank the Muskegon County government leaders and the local community leaders, educational leaders, labor and business groups for standing with us at every turn. But most importantly we would like to thank the people of Muskegon and the surrounding communities who have made thousands of phone calls and sent thousands and thousands of letters to the Governor in support of our efforts. With the overwhelming support of the community, I don’t know how the Governor can say no,” continued Romanelli.

The Governor has until June 16th to either agree to support the casino project; if she does not act or refuses to support – the project ends.

“With the Governor’s sign-off, we can create 3,000 jobs and the initial work can begin in months,” said Larry Romanelli.

The $180 million proposed casino is on the 86 acre site of the former Great Lake’s Downs Race Track that was purchased by the Tribe in 2007. The site and the Tribe went through an extensive Environmental Impact analysis that took almost ten years before being approved by the Federal Department of Interior last December. Beginning the construction process is just waiting for the Governor’s signature.

The proposed casino site is expected to attract more than 1.8 million visitors per year and provide the hotel rooms needed to bring larger conventions to the Muskegon area.

In addition to the jobs and economic development expansion, the Casino will generate more than $15 million in revenue to the State, millions more to local governments and an estimated $1.5 million a year to local charities through the establishment of the Tribe’s 7th Generation Fund.

The Community Rally for Muskegon will take place at the casino site located at 4800 S. Harvey Street in Fruitport Twp. at 11:00 am on Friday, May 20th. The general public is welcome to attend.

$20,000 goal to win matching grant through MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places initiative

LANSING, Mich. – The city of Muskegon will gain a fitness station to launch a fitness and environmental trail along the Lakeshore Trail at Beachwood Park through the anticipated success of a crowdfunding campaign, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and city of Muskegon announced today. The campaign is being offered through the Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity.

If the campaign reaches its crowdfunding goal of $20,000, the project will win a matching grant with funds made possible by MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program. For project details and to donate, please visit: patronicity.com/mkg3.

“Amenities that improve access to community health and wellbeing are an important part of great public placemaking,” said MEDC Senior Vice President of Community Development Michele Wildman. “We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”

This campaign will allow the city of Muskegon and the Beachwood Bluffton Neighborhood Association (BBNA) to complete a special space in the city of Muskegon’s prized Beachwood Park. The first phase of the fitness trail will be a 10-person fitness pod that provides upper and lower body strength training.

A special neighborhood fitness trail committee has worked through the COVID years to design a safe outdoor space for fitness equipment that would be available to those of all ages and physical conditions. Working with the city of Muskegon’s Park’s Department, the committee has found a location adjacent to an existing children’s playground and pickleball courts. The vendor GameTime has been selected along with its Thrive 450 fitness station.

The success of this campaign will mean that the fitness pod will be completed with equipment can be ordered and installed by Fall 2022. This will include pull up bars, sit-up benches, medicine balls, ladders, step-up platforms, and fitness flooring. Funds raised beyond the goal will be used for future fitness trail installations. Other fitness pods will be located along a 1.6- mile beach loop of the city’s Lakeshore Trail.

“We are excited to provide a fun place for Muskegon neighbors and visitors to gather outdoors and get moving,” said Chris Willis, Beachwood Bluffton Neighborhood Association (BBNA) chair. “The fitness trail project has long had neighborhood support, but outdoor recreational equipment is prohibitively expensive. This project is made possible by a partnership with the city of Muskegon for installation, and the Public Spaces Community Places matching grant, amplifying every generous donation we receive.”

Public Spaces Community Places is a collaborative effort of the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, in which local residents can use crowdfunding to be part of the development of strategic projects in their communities and be backed with a matching grant from MEDC. Communities, nonprofits and other business entities can apply at https://patronicity.com/puremichigan.

“The Michigan Municipal League is a firm believer in building community wealth in ways that enhance the human experience for everyone,” said Dan Gilmartin, the League’s CEO and Executive Director. “Adding a fitness station to Beachwood Park, with the cooperation of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation speaks directly to the public health pillar of community wealth building. With the support of the City of Muskegon, this project will help create spaces within the community that will improve the human experience for all for years to come, which is what community wealth building is all about.”

The Public Spaces Community Places initiative started in 2014 with MEDC providing matched funding of up to $50,000 for community improvement projects throughout Michigan. As of March 31, 2022, MEDC has provided more than $9.8 million in matching grants. Since the launch of the program, 307 projects have been successful in reaching their goal, with $11.4 million raised from 52,500 individual donors. Communities have a 97 percent success rate in achieving their goals and earning our matching funds.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Pioneer Resources’ Popular Fundraising Event Returns!

Back to an in-person format, Pioneer Resources presents the 5th annual “Hats and Horses” fundraiser on Saturday, May 7, 2022. Attendees are encouraged to get tickets early and dress in derby attire/hats for this Kentucky Derby-themed party held under an elegant tent on the ground of Parmenter Law at 601 Terrace Street in Downtown Muskegon. The event is from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm and will feature the Kentucky Derby Race live! Additional activities include several bucket raffles, live auction cash bar, and heavy hors-d’oeuvres throughout the evening. 

This year’s proceeds will be used for Pioneer Resources’ various programs to serve our mission of helping people with disabilities and seniors to attain independence and dignity by creating opportunities for participation in the community. Covid-19 has had a significant impact on our organization and we hope our community can be part of this year’s worthy fundraiser!

Pioneer Resources began as an unincorporated association of parents and educators in the late 1940s, operating as Pioneer School and providing special education and therapy. 65 years later the agency offers a diverse array of individualized supports and services for persons with disabilities as well as seniors. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.betterunite.com/pioneerresources-2022hatshorses

Lake Michigan Credit Union Celebrates the 10^th Year of Its Home Makeover Sweepstakes with a $50,000 Giveaway

Grand Rapids, MI. – Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) announced the launch of its 10^th annual Home Makeover Sweepstakes, with a grand prize of $50,000.

The sweepstakes will run from now until Friday, July 8, 2022. Last year’s giveaway generated a record 1,093,779 entries, the first year to break one million. The grand prize was won by Jamal of Grand Rapids.

There are many ways you could use $50,000 to improve your home. Maybe you’ve been imagining an updated kitchen or a deluxe bathroom, or your roof is due for repair. Or maybe now is the perfect time to add an addition, like a home office or extra bedroom. By entering online at LMCU.org or at any branch location, entrants are eligible to win the grand prize to make their dreams a reality. Entrants can also enter at most LMCU ATMs one time during the contest. Just like membership at LMCU, the $50,000 Home Makeover sweepstakes is open to everyone in Michigan and Florida.

“It’s so wonderful to be celebrating the 10^th year of our Home Makeover Sweepstakes,” said Sandy Jelinski, LMCU president and CEO. “Thinking back to each winner, it’s amazing what the prize meant for them and the dreams they’ve always had for their homes. One of the things I’m most proud of with the work we do at LMCU is that even if you don’t win the sweepstakes, we have what you need to make your dreams a reality, too – whether that’s an affordable home improvement, a new car, or simply saving money by consolidating debt. We put our members first, and that’s why our members love banking here.”

Lake Michigan Credit Union was established in 1933 and is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.8 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

Muskegon, MI – The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show returns to the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center in downtown Muskegon. The show will take place on Friday, April 22 from 4 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show will feature over 60 exhibitors including everything from home improvement and landscaping to boat dealers and water sports.

“This is an exciting time for Muskegon,” said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The new convention center brings new ways to grow our economy through great events that bring people to our community.”

Do-It-Yourself and demonstration seminars will be taught by local businesses on Saturday. This year’s seminars include floral arranging by Chalet Floral, a cooking demonstration featuring Kaja’s Flavor, a first-time home buyer guide by Fifth Third Bank, professional painting tips from Fresh Coat Painters, and boater safety training from Freedom Boat Club.

In addition to exhibitors and seminars, each ticket includes a 15% off discount for Walker’s An American Brasserie Restaurant. Preshow tickets are available online now at muskegonhgs.org for $8. Tickets will also be available day of the show for $10. Kids 12 and under are free!

The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show is a production of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce with support from the Lakeshore Home Builders Association, VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, Shoreline Restoration and Construction and Freedom Boat Club. Additional show supporters and exhibitors are listed online at muskegonHGS.org.

WEST MICHIGAN – Get ready for your next lighthouse adventure! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the release of the 2022 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour. This is a free poster-sized publication which details all of the lighthouses located on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as the Circle Tour driving route to guide motorists around the lake.

To accompany this year’s map, WMTA has released 24 new free, digital jigsaw puzzles showcasing this year’s Featured Lighthouses. These digital jigsaw puzzles may be accessed on WMTA’s website at the following URL: https://www.wmta.org/west-michigan-digital-jigsaw-puzzles/

The cover of this year’s map features an aerial photo of South Haven Lighthouse, courtesy of Dan Zeeff. Dan is a professional landscape, aerial, and architectural photographer based near Grand Rapids, Michigan. His growing Michigan landscape photography collection includes hundreds of photos of Michigan lakes, lighthouses, coastal towns, and more! Check out his website at danjzeeff.com.

The full circle tour driving route around Lake Michigan is available online, and website visitors may also download a PDF of this year’s Lighthouse Map, or request that a free copy be mailed to them here: www.wmta.org/lake-michigan-lighthouse-map-circle-tour/

Vacationers have been looping the lake for generations, but the official “Lake Michigan Circle Tour” route was not established until the 1980s when the Michigan Department of Transportation teamed up with West Michigan Tourist Association to create the route and its official guidebook. Along the way, travelers will find more than 100 lighthouses, countless islands, unique attractions, parks and natural areas, miles of glorious beaches, quaint harbor towns, and one “modern marvel” – the Mackinac Bridge.

While a loosely-organized “circle route” around Lake Superior was promoted by local tourist organizations as early as the 1960s, the first official (and signed) Great Lakes Circle Tour was the Lake Michigan Circle Tour. The only single-nation Circle Tour (Lake Michigan being the only Great Lake completely within the US), the Lake Michigan Circle Tour also has the most mileage of any Circle Tour in the state.Working in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Transportation, the West Michigan Tourist Association helped to make the first of the official Great Lakes Circle Tours a reality and the first publication was released in 1988 as a 52-page guide book. The guide book was transformed into a map in 2007, and the Circle Tour driving route can now be found online.

Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour publications are also available in bulk quantities; please contact Travel@WMTA.org for more information.

Grand Rapids, MI – Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) is pleased to announce the 2022 Roots in Education teacher grant.

Each year, LMCU’s Roots in Education program awards 25 teachers each a $1,000 grant for making a positive impact on their students and school community by embodying a particular trait. These grants can be used to help purchase school supplies, aid in online learning, or anything else that benefits the educational process.

This year, LMCU is celebrating educators who are empowering. Students, parents, peers, and community members are encouraged to nominate a pre-K through 12th-grade teacher whom they believe goes above and beyond to empower their students.

Nominees must be residents of Michigan or Florida. Full eligibility, program details, and the nomination form can be found at LMCU.org/TeacherGrant. Nominations will be accepted April 1 to May 8, 2022.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) was established in 1933 and is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.8 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

MUSKEGON — Charging forward with a positive, community-centric, and policy-focused campaign, Brennen Gorman (D) submitted paperwork with Muskegon County Clerk earlier today to formalize his candidacy for State Representative in the newly drawn 87th House District.

With a background in policy, Brennen understands the issues residents in the 87th District face every day and, perhaps most importantly, has thoughtful, relevant policy ideas to address and lead them to a resolution. Brennen’s campaign addresses:

• Implementation of Non-Monetary Bail & a Pre-Trial Services Dept.
• Reimagination of K-12 Education Funding in Michigan
• Increased investments to support local infrastructure, environment, and residents
• Implementation of Pharmacist Prescribed Birth Control
• Codification LGBTQIA2S+ Rights in Statute
• Creation of Michigan’s Own Family Medical Leave Act
• Increased Youth Participation in Elections

“I am running for State Representative because I feel powerless and overwhelmed by the number of injustices, barriers, and divisions facing our community. While easier to be crippled by indecision and anxiety – I have stepped forward because the only place where each of these issues intersect is in government,” shares Gorman.

Brennen is a practicing attorney at Brower Vander Veen, PLC and is an Adjunct Faculty Member at Muskegon Community College in its Business Department. He received his Bachelor of Science in Political Science as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Writing from Grand Valley State University and earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law.

Brennen is a Board Member of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College, Parties in the Park, and is a past president of the Greater Muskegon Jaycees. Brennen lives in Nelson Neighborhood, Muskegon with his wife Muskegon City Commissioner Rachel Gorman.

More information about the platform of the Gorman Campaign is available in a video series format on the campaign website www.brennengorman.com with Brennen addressing each of these topics – hear from him directly why each of these issues are real and relevant issues facing our community.

“Government is not a magic cure all, but it holds a special position within our society as the place with the greatest propensity for growth and change. I am running to be your next State Representative because I want to face these challenges head-on and bring a new voice to address the institutional barriers plaguing our friends and neighbors.”

Muskegon, MI – Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) is pleased to announce their spring Shred Your Stuff Day.

On Saturday, April 23, members and non-members can bring up to six boxes of sensitive or personal documents to LMCU’s Norton Shores branch, located at 1619 Mount Garfield Rd in Muskegon, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and West Michigan Document Shredding will shred and dispose of them for free. LMCU has offered this service for many years, and it’s just one of the many ways LMCU protects their members from identity theft.

Attendees must remain in their vehicles for the health and safety of staff and participants. Event details are subject to change. Any changes to the event schedule will be posted on LMCU.org and LMCU social media pages.

For information on other Shred Your Stuff Day events, visit LMCU.org/Events.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), established in 1933, is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.5 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

On March 30th, 2022, Congressman John Moolenaar filed for re-election for the U.S. House of Representatives.

Petition signatures from across the Second Congressional District were filed with the Secretary of State in Lansing on Wednesday ahead of the state’s April 19 deadline.

“I am thankful for the support of residents across the Second District who have helped secure my spot on the ballot this August,” said Congressman Moolenaar. “I am excited to share my conservative message with voters on the campaign trail and look forward to earning their vote.”

Muskegon, MI – The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show returns to the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center in downtown Muskegon. The show will take place on Friday, April 22 from 4 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show will feature over 60 exhibitors including everything from home improvement and landscaping to boat dealers and water sports.

“This is an exciting time for Muskegon,” said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The new convention center brings new ways to grow our economy through great events that bring people to our community.”

Do-It-Yourself and demonstration seminars will be taught by local businesses on Saturday. This year’s seminars include floral arranging by Chalet Floral, a cooking demonstration featuring Kaja’s Flavor, a first-time home buyer guide by Fifth Third Bank, professional painting tips from Fresh Coat Painters, and boater safety training from Freedom Boat Club.

In addition to exhibitors and seminars, each ticket includes a 15% off discount for Walker’s An American Brasserie Restaurant. Preshow tickets are available online now at muskegonhgs.org for $8. Tickets will also be available day of the show for $10. Kids 12 and under are free!

The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show is a production of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce with support from the Lakeshore Home Builders Association, VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, Shoreline Restoration and Construction and Freedom Boat Club. Additional show supporters and exhibitors are listed online at muskegonHGS.org.

National Library Week April 3-9

MUSKEGON, MI – National Library Week is a time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.

MADL is celebrating Community Appreciation Day on Tuesday, April 5 and the public is invited to visit any of ten branch locations for treats and giveaways throughout the day. It is also a celebration of National Library Workers Day, a day to celebrate the invaluable service of librarians and library support staff for their service to our community and library users.

Spring Break at all MADL branches includes special programs for kids throughout the week; Spring into STEAM, Candy Bar Bingo, and early literacy Storyville Villages at the Montague, Norton and Muskegon Heights branches. Another promotion included free movie tickets for Encanto at the Cinema Carousel on Tuesday, April 5, however, due to popular demand, tickets have gone quickly to library card holders.

MADL’s branches include Dalton, Egelston, Holton, Montague, Muskegon Heights, Muskegon Township, North Muskegon, Norton Shores, Ravenna and the Library for the Visually & Physically Disabled.

MADL offers many programs for all ages, free wi-fi, classes and resources that are available in person or from the comfort of home, 24/7. Some electronic learning digital resources include, Brainfuse, Libby, Tumblebooks and many others https://www.madl.org/stream___download/stream___download.php
The libraries are places to get connected to technology by using broadband, computers, and other resources.

About the Muskegon Area District Library
Muskegon Area District Library is Muskegon’s largest public library system with ten branch libraries, a Bookmobile, and the Library for the Visually and Physically Disabled. It serves 105,852 residents in 19 municipalities and is open 24/7 with on-line resources.

MUSKEGON, MI – It’s spring and the Easter season. Families have been isolated by more than two years of COVID-19 restrictions, making this a perfect time for Muskegon to gather outside for a community Easter Egg Hunt.

The City of Muskegon’s Community & Neighborhood Services Department is hosting the Easter Egg Hunt Saturday April 9, 2022 in Downtown Muskegon’s Hackley Park from 10 a.m. to noon. Hackley Park is located at Third Street and Clay Avenue.

All children to age 12 and their families are invited to join the community to celebrate outside in a safe manner. The event is designed to provide information for children and families on the latest COVID-19 directives and, of course, have some fun.

“We are now able to bring the community safely together in Hackley Park to celebrate spring,” said Oneata Bailey, Muskegon CNS director. “We still need to inform and educate children and families on COVID-19. An Easter Egg Hunt is a great way to accomplish both.”

Public Health Muskegon County will be participating with other agencies to provide information and answer questions. Muskegon CNS is using a small portion of its federal emergency COVID-19 funds to sponsor the event.

There will be thousands of eggs filled with treats to hunt in the park. There will be opportunities for photos with the Easter Bunny, face painting and other outdoor activities.

Plenty of free give-a-ways can be picked up at the nearby Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western, including market veggie vouchers, child-sized KN-95 masks, and outdoor sporting equipment for the children. While supplies last, youngsters can pick either a jump rope, basketball, soccer ball or football.

(Norton Shores, Mich.) – Yesterday, State Representative Greg VanWoerkom filed to run for the Michigan House of Representatives in the redrawn 88th District.

“It is an honor to serve and be the voice for the residents of West Michigan. I am excited to continue my efforts on solving problems that matter most to families and setting up our region for future growth and success,” said VanWoerkom.

VanWoerkom was first elected to office in 2018 and has been an influential member of the House Appropriations Committee. In his first term, he served as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development. This term he serves as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government, which encompasses nine state budgets including the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. VanWoerkom led the creation of the innovative Tri-Share Child Care Program and has been a leader in improving access to mental health resources for children.

“This is a critical time for our state and our region as we emerge from the pandemic,” said VanWoerkom. “We need to focus on getting people back to work, keeping our businesses and schools open and addressing the rising costs stemming from poor public policy.”

The redrawn 88th District includes the cities and villages of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven, Norton Shores and Spring Lake and the townships of Crockery, Grand Haven, Olive, Port Sheldon, Robinson and Spring Lake. Greg and his family live in Norton Shores.

Every Woman’s Place (EWP) to host solidarity walk honoring sexual violence survivors in downtown Muskegon as part of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April

The Starting Line will launch the Cheers Community Crawl on a serious note, highlighting the statistic that every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Participants will wear custom teal shirts with a bold graphic of the numeral 68 as they walk Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon, pausing for 68 seconds of silence at 12:59 pm on Saturday, April 2, 2022.

MUSKEGON, MI – Every Woman’s Place (EWP) is pleased to collaborate annually in April with the Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM) to host Cheers & Chocolate as part of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Together, EWP and the CIM raise awareness and raise funds to support survivors of sexual assault and sex trafficking in our community.

Kim Dimmett, Executive Director, explains, “In 2020, Muskegon County reported 90 sexual assaults, with 16 arrests…this data shows us that most victims/survivors are suffering in silence. In April we come together to show our support for survivors of sexual assault.

We work every day to send the message that ‘we believe you’, ‘we support you’ and ‘we will walk beside you’,” she adds. “Every Woman’s Place works closely with the police, the Prosecutor’s office and our medical facilities so that survivors are offered and provided supportive services immediately and without re-victimization. We are working toward bringing sexual assault examinations in-house, at EWP, to ensure supportive services during and following a sexual assault exam.”

The Community Crawl takes the place of our traditional Cheers event held at the CIM, which will not take place in 2022 while we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Cheers Community Crawl starts April 1 at 5:00 am and runs the entire month of April, ending at midnight on April 30.

Supporting Business (April 1-30)
Starting April 1, Supporting Businesses will ask their customers to add $1 to their bill in support of Every Woman’s Place. At the end of April, those funds are donated to EWP to provide services that respond to and restore the lives of survivors in our community. There is no cost to become a Supporting Businesses, and sign-up is simple. Supporting Businesses are acknowledged on social media, in print, and with posters for their storefront.

Cheers Crawl Starting Line (April 2, 12 – 1 pm)
EWP staff, supporters, and survivors wearing our custom teal T-shirt will stand together at the Starting Line on April 2 at the Muskegon Visitor Center and walk down Western Ave in a display of solidarity with survivors. The T-shirt references the statistic that an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds with a bold graphic of the numeral 68. The 2022 Starting Line Sponsor is local business Andy’s Plumbing. “We believe in the importance of EWP’s work in the community, and this sponsorship was a great way to show our support,” said Shallon White, co-owner.

Cheers Pop-Up Wine Pull (April 23, 10 am – 2 pm)
EWP will showcase an exciting selection of 100 wines, plus unique specialty packages. Donate $20 to pull a number from our jar and walk away with the corresponding bag containing a bottle that may be worth up to $100. Must be 21 years of age and provide ID.

Cheers Crawl Finish Line (April 29, 5 – 8 pm)
This full month of community engagement will be capped off by the Community Crawl Finish Line. The Finish Line is an all-day “eat, drink and stroll” through the Muskegon downtown Social District, with free live entertainment featuring local favorite Brena at Olthoff Stage.

Sponsor opportunities are available to support this community-wide event, including Community Sponsorships from $350 to $1000, plus:

• Finish Line Sponsor, an exclusive opportunity to support the Finish Line festivities ($4,000)
• Day Sponsors, who commit to matching the donated proceeds for a particular day of the month (up to $2,500)
• Pop-Up Wine Pull Sponsor, exclusive sponsorship of the Pop-Up Wine Pull on April 23 in downtown Muskegon ($2,500)

Speaking again about the work of the agency, Dimmett added, “All survivors of sexual assault are welcome at EWP, regardless of when the victimization occurred, or any other attribute that makes you an individual. We are here to promote healing and empowerment, at any point during your journey from victimization through restoration. There is no cost for our services and all information is strictly confidential. We are available every day, all day, by calling (231) 759-7909 during the day or (231) 722-3333 after 5:00 pm.”

Parties in the Park is excited to announce the return of a full season, with eight Friday night parties from 5-9pm in Downtown Muskegon’s Hackley Park this upcoming summer.  

“After taking one year off and throwing a single party in 2021 due to COVID-19, we are thrilled to get back to the regular Friday night parties that Muskegon has come to love and look forward to,” says Cece Riley, President of the Parties in the Park Board of Directors. “We have some outstanding non-profit partners this year and an entertainment line up to be enjoyed by multiple generations.”

Parties in the Park consist of live music, beverage tents, food vendors, and a kid’s zone on Friday nights in Downtown Muskegon’s Hackley Park from 5-9pm. Admission to the parties is always free. The 2022 season dates and non-profit partners are as follows:

June 3 – Muskegon Rotary Club

June 17 – Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce

July 8 – Muskegon Motorcycle Club

July 22 – AgeWell Services of West Michigan

July 29 – West Michigan Speed Skating

August 5 – Pay It Forward

August 19 – JCI Greater Muskegon

August 26 – Disability Network of West Michigan

A competitive application process determines each year’s non-profit partners.  These non-profits help coordinate the events and receive event proceeds to help carry out their meaningful work.

The Parties in the Park Board of Directors is putting the final touches on the season’s entertainment line-up. This year’s entertainment will include local favorites like funk, rock and soul band Flexadecibel and rock cover band Distracted as well as regional and national acts including Woodstock tribute band – Magic Bus, Nashville’s own new country singer Hannah Ellis and, New York’s SIRSY – bringing rock and soul with sass to Hackley Park.

“Our entertainment committee is working hard to secure an eclectic mix of music for party goers this summer,” says Riley. “We look forward to announcing the full line-up in the near future.”

The 2022 Parties in the Park season is presented by Best Financial Credit Union, RENK America, and Michelob Ultra.

Parties in the Park has been providing free, family-friendly events for 38 years. The mission of Parties in the Park is to create a sense of community and appreciation for Muskegon’s Downtown through a family-oriented social event. Hosted by a variety of Muskegon County not-for-profit groups, the proceeds from the Parties either make physical enhancements or quality of life improvements for the whole community. 

Yesterday, Congressman John Moolenaar announced his endorsement by Michigan Right to Life. 

“Our way of life is based on the belief that every human life has value, that’s why my pro-life record goes hand-in-hand with my strong support of adoption as a way to provide loving and safe homes for children” Moolenaar said. “I believe we are endowed by our Creator with the unalienable Right to Life. Life begins at conception, and we must protect all human life.” 

Congressman Moolenaar has maintained a 100% pro-life voting record as a member of the 117th Congress and has been a committed champion for life throughout his career.

Consumers Energy Foundation provides $50,000 grant to PoWeR! Book Bags to support literacy efforts

The Consumers Energy Foundation has provided a $50,000 gift to PoWeR! Book Bags to help support PoWeR! Book Bags Little Learners Program, ensuring language and literacy materials are available to low income families with children ages 0-5 across 20 counties in northern Michigan.

PoWeR! Book Bags is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to help children increase experiences with language, literacy, and human interactions through playing, writing, and reading. Guided by relevant research, PoWeR! Book Bags offers families and children an on-going supply of play and print materials to have at home. The program invites children to select new books to keep, along with book bags filled with age appropriate materials that support children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. When children PLAY and WRITE and READ, they engage in crucial behaviors and practice skills necessary to build strong language and literacy abilities that will better equip them for life!

“Consumers Energy and our foundation have been serving Michiganders for decades, and we are grateful to be able to support this next generation of Michiganders by providing this funding to PoWeR! Book Bags,” said Carolyn Bloodworth, secretary/treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation. “We all know how important literacy is in a child’s first few years. PoWeR! Book Bags and its team of volunteers are doing wonderful work by providing thousands of books to children across Northern Michigan, and the Consumers Energy Foundation is proud to support their efforts.”

“PoWeR! Book Bags’ goal – to increase opportunities for language and literacy development to give children a better life – is a great fit with the Consumers Energy Foundation’s goal to improve the lives of those families in Michigan who are working but simply cannot make financial ends meet,” PoWeR! Book Bags’ executive director Kara Gregory said. “The Foundation has done an incredible job identifying the challenges of the ALICE population – those households that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed in Michigan. PoWeR! Book Bags works across 20 northern Michigan counties, each with a significant ALICE population.”

PoWeR! Book Bags collaborates with agencies including public health departments (WIC, MIHP, and Immunization Clinics), local food pantries, community sites of assistance, Early Head Start, and schools. PoWeR! Book Bags estimates it will distribute upwards of 100,000 books and 10,000 book bags filled with literacy materials to early learners and their families in 2022.

“The Foundation has identified early childhood education as a key element in building stronger communities. PoWeR! Book Bags provides opportunities for language and literacy development so our children are better prepared as they enter school and, as adults, have the opportunity for a better quality of life and the opportunity to participate positively in the entire community,” Gregory continued. “We are so grateful to the Consumers Energy Foundation for this opportunity to continue our work on behalf of northern Michigan families.” To learn more about the ALICE report, visit www.unitedforalice.org and for more information about PoWeR! Book Bags, visit www.powerbookbags.com or call 231-343-0255.

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what’s most important to Michigan — its people, our planet, and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2021, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, its employees and retirees contributed over $17.5 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information, visit www.ConsumersEnergy.com/foundation.

Muskegon, MI – Put on your green and bring your family and friends to downtown Muskegon on Saturday, March 12 to the 9th annual Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade! Stepping off at 11 a.m. from 6th Street along Western Avenue to 2nd Street, the parade will celebrate Muskegon’s rich Irish Heritage. 

This family-oriented event is sponsored by JCI Greater Muskegon and Unruly Brewing Co. Jackie Green, Mrs. America and co-host of The Gray and Green Show on 105.3 HOT FM will be the Grand Marshal of the parade. All marchers and attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food donations for Mission for Area People’s food pantry. 

“We are thrilled to welcome back the Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19,” said Emily Morgenstern, President of JCI Greater Muskegon. “The parade has been a staple in Muskegon’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and we are excited to expand the tradition with even more activities this year.”

Following the parade, from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Shamrockin’ In Your Shanty will return to Western Avenue for its second year. Participants are invited to set up a shanty or tent and spend the day drinking and eating with friends from establishments in the Downtown Muskegon Social District. Live Irish music will be presented by the Michigan Irish Music Festival on the Olthoff Stage at Western Avenue and 3rd Street. Shamrockin’ In Your Shanty registration costs $15 per shanty with a portion of sales benefitting Mission For Area People. Registration is required, and the event link and information can be found at jcimuskegon.org/theparade.

Also happening in downtown Muskegon on Saturday, March 12 is the Shamrock Shuffle 5K organized by Run Muskegon, Go-Green! Scavenger Hunt organized by 4-H Muskegon, Michigan Makers Market at the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, music and entertainment at Unruly Brewing Co. and a Muskegon Lumberjacks game at Mercy Health Arena. 

If your family, organization or group wants to march in the Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade, sign up online at jcimuskegon.org/theparade or contact JCI Greater Muskegon at info@jcimuskegon.org. Registration forms are due back to JCI Greater Muskegon by March 8, 2022. 

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – To celebrate National Reading Month, every March Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) challenges kids to participate in LMCU’s Reading Adventure.

Each child who participates is challenged to read five books in the month of March for a chance to win $100. Plus, every child who completes LMCU’s Reading Adventure will receive a bookmark and a sticker if dropped off at a local LMCU branch.

Entries can be submitted online at LMCU.org/Contests or entry forms can be picked up at your local LMCU branch and dropped off at the drive-thru or in person. Winners will be drawn on April 15, 2022.

Who’s eligible?

LMCU’s Reading Adventure is open to children 12 and under.

Deadline for entries: March 31, 2022

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), established in 1933, is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 516,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.5 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

Michigan’s Adventure to Hire 1,200 Seasonal Associates, with Starting Pay of Up to $16.50 per hour

Muskegon, MI – Michigan’s Adventure, the region’s premier amusement park, today said it plans to hire approximately 1,200 seasonal associates as it prepares to open for the 2022 season on May 25.

Starting wages for amusement park seasonal associates will be up to $16.50 per hour.  Job opportunities are available in all park operating areas, including Rides, Merchandise, Park Services, Lifeguards, Food and Beverage, Safety and Security, Maintenance, Admissions and more.  

Michigan’s Adventure offers flexible schedules and many perks for its associates, including discounts, reward and recognition programs, exclusive events and free admission to any Cedar Fair park. 

“Winter may still be upon us, but warmer days are just around the corner, and we have begun hiring for our many seasonal positions at the park,” said Camille Jourden-Mark, vice president and general manager. “Michigan’s Adventure offers a unique opportunity for associates to enjoy the summer weather while gaining valuable experiences that will last a lifetime.  We have positions available for every skill level.  Whether you’re looking to launch a career or spend a few days a week making guests happy, Michigan’s Adventure offers summer positions that fit your schedule.” 

To gear up for the new season, Michigan’s Adventure is holding an in-person hiring event at the park’s Training Center, 4750 Whitehall Rd, on Saturday, March 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To apply, text “FUN” to 97211 or visit www.miadventure.com/jobs.   

About Michigan’s Adventure
Michigan’s Adventures is Michigan’s largest amusement park and water park with more than 60 world-class rides, slides, unique attractions and special events throughout the season. Located just north of Muskegon, Michigan’s Adventure offers fun for the entire family, including Camp Snoopy and WildWater Adventure Waterpark.  It is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company. 

About Cedar Fair
Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world, is a publicly traded partnership headquartered in Sandusky, Ohio. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 13 properties, consisting of 11 amusement parks, four separately gated outdoor water parks, and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. Cedar Fair’s parks are located in Ohio, California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, Texas and Toronto, Ontario.