Benefit Spaghetti Dinner

Mar. 9: A benefit spaghetti dinner for the Mike Tibbe Family will be held on March 9 at the American Legion Hall in Cedar Springs. Dinner is from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and the auction starts at 7 pm. $6 per plate, $10 for two and $18 for four. #8-10p

Mom-2-Mom Sale

Mar. 9: On Saturday, March 9 from 9 am to 1 pm Courtland Oakfield United Methodist Church will host a Mom-2-Mom Sale, 10295 Myers Lake Ave. NE, just north of 12 Mile Rd. Come browse 45 tables of gently used toys, clothes, and other child-rearing gear and find the bargain you’ve been looking for. Refreshments are on the house; no door fee for shoppers. Dads are welcome too! #9,10p

Pancake Breakfast

Mar. 9: The Courtland Township Fire Department, 7480 – 14 Mile Rd. is hosting a pancake breakfast on Saturday March 9 from 8 – 11am. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, biscuits & gravy, coffee, orange juice or milk. $5 adults, $3 children 6-12, 5 and under free, $15 family (2 adults, 2 children). Proceeds to benefit the Courtland Fire Department. #10

Cedar Springs Garden Club Meeting

Mar. 12: The Cedar Springs Garden Club will meet Tuesday, March 12 at 7pm at The Springs Church, 35 N. Grant St. in Cedar Springs. We use the parking lot entrance and are in the all purpose room. This month’s program is about the care & propagation of African Violets. If you have one that needs dividing bring it along. Don’t forget to bring an extra pot for the baby. Everyone is welcome! #10

Rummage Sale at Cedar Springs United Methodist

Mar. 13-14: Come check out the good buys on clothing and household items! Wednesday, March 13 from 9 am – 7 pm and Thursday March 14 from 9 am – 2 pm. Bag Day Sale on Thursday. The church is located at the corner of Main and Church Sts., Cedar Springs. #9,10p

2013 Jazz Along the White Pine

Mar. 15: The Tri County High School Jazz Band will present it’s annual dinner and auction on Friday, March 15 at the high school. Dinner is catered and entertainment will be presented by the jazz band and special guests, including vocalist Todd Zamarrippa. Tickets are limited and going fast, but may still be available. Please contact band director Howard Wilson at Tri County High School, 231-937-4338 x 436. #10p

Founders Day Weekend

Mar. 15-18: The Cedar Springs Founders Day Weekend March 15th through the 18th. Come celebrate with music, dancing, craft demonstrations and more. For a full list of event activities please see our ad on page 7. For more information call 616-773-5126. #10,11p

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Mar. 16: The Cedar Springs Lions Club is hosting a pancake breakfast every third Saturday of each month January thru April. (Mar. 16 & Apr. 20) Come to the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church located on the corner of Main & Church Streets on Saturday March 16 from 7 am to 11 am, for an all-you-can-eat breakfast including pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, juice and coffee. Buy your tickets now from a Lions Club member and get $1 off. Contact Art Probst, 616-696-9340 or Seth Baker-Donnan, 616-696-9370 for ticket information. Proceeds to assist sight conservation. #10

Ultimate Beyblade Battle

Mar. 16: Test your skills and have fun competing in KDL’s first ever Beyblade Battles! Bring your own Beyblades and arenas or train and compete using the library’s equipment. For ages 6 and older. Saturday, March 16, 1:30pm at the Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #10

St. Patty’s Scavenger Hunt

Mar. 17: Celebrate the Holiday with a Nature Scavenger Hunt at Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16160 Red Pine Dr., Kent City. There will be prizes and fun for all ages. Hidden things will be in our center and outdoors, so rain or shine come find that pot of gold! Sunday, March 17, 10:30am – 2:30pm. Donation of $5 per person. For more info call 616-675-3158. #10

Register Now for Free Hunter Education

Mar. 19: To register for firearm Hunter Safety Classes at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, call Jim Pope at 231-834-5545 after 6 pm. Classes at the Club, 7463 18 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs, will be Tues. March 19 from 6 – 9 pm, Thurs. March 21 from 6 – 9pm Sat. March 23 from 8:00am – 4:30pm, and Tues. March 26 from 6 – 9 pm. #10,11p

Corned Beef and Ham Dinner

Mar. 20: The East Nelson United Methodist Church will be serving Corned Beef and Ham with boiled red potatoes, carrots, cabbage and homemade desserts on Wednesday, March 20 from 5 – 7pm. The cost of the meal is be donation. Come join us!! If you have any questions, please contact the church at 616-696-0661. #10,11p

Luau

Mar. 25: You are invited to a Luau presented by the Red Hat Society on Saturday April 6th from 9:30 to 4pm at Solon Center Wesleyan Church, 15671 Algoma Ave. Join us for a fun-filled day packed with laughter, dance, food, 50/50 raffle & door prizes. Not a Red or Pink Hatter? No problem! Be one for the day! NO tickets sold at the door. $30 per person if paid on or by March 25th. To register contact Gigi, 616-696-4703 or email Gigi.rh77@yahoo.com. Open to the public. Ladies, Red Hat attire or Hawaiian; Gentlemen, Hawaiian Shirt or red tie. #10

Auditions for May Musical

Feb. 28:Auditions for the upcoming musical original play, Old Folks at Home, will be held at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main, Cedar Springs, MI on Thursday, Feb 28 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM and on Saturday, March 2 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 noon. This play is written and directed by Scott Phillips and this will be its first performance. Practices will begin in late March and continuing until performances on the last two weekends in May. The cast includes men, women and children of various ages. Come and try out…don’t be shy. For additional information contact Scott Phillips at 696-3746. #9

Snowmobile Museum Grand Opening

Mar. 3: The Grand Opening and Vintage Show of the West Michigan Snowmobile and Library will be Sunday, March 3 from 10 am to 3 pm. Located at 13969 Francis Way, Cedar Springs. Our goal is to introduce the museum, to have 100 snowmobiles on display and to enjoy our old and new friends. Please join us. #9

Dinner at the Legion

Mar. 4: American Legion, 80 Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a pork chop dinner on Monday, March 4, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be stuffing, mashed potatoes, veggies, salad, dessert and drinks. All dinners are $9, children $4.50. Enjoy home cooking, take out is available. 616-696-9160. #9

Wild Game Dinner

Mar. 4: Great food, good friends and lots of hunting stories. Monday March 4 at 6:30 pm at Heritage UMC, 19931 W. Kendaville, Howard City. Please bring a hot dish and either a salad or dessert to share. Free, no cost. #9

TOPS weight loss support group

Mar. 5: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclemeent weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #5

Benefit Spaghetti Dinner

Mar. 9: A benefit spaghetti dinner for the Mike Tibbe Family will be held on March 9 at the American Legion Hall in Cedar Springs. Dinner is from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and the auction starts at 7 pm. $6 per plate, $10 for two and $18 for four. #8-10p

Mom-2-Mom Sale

Mar. 9: On Saturday, March 9 from 9 am to 1 pm Courtland Oakfield United Methodist Church will host a Mom-2-Mom Sale, 10295 Myers Lake Ave. NE, just north of 12 Mile Rd. Come browse 45 tables of gently used toys, clothes, and other child-rearing gear and find the bargain you’ve been looking for. Refreshments are on the house; no door fee for shoppers. Dads are welcome too! #9,10p

Rummage Sale at Cedar Springs United Methodist

Mar. 13-14: Come check out the good buys on clothing and household items! Wednesday, March 13 from 9 am – 7 pm and Thursday March 14 from 9 am – 2 pm. Bag Day Sale on Thursday. The church is located at the corner of Main and Church Sts., Cedar Springs. #9,10p

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Class of 2013 Senior Party Fundraisers

Feb. 23: Zumba Class – Saturday, February 23rd, 10 am at the Cedar Springs Middle School. The event is open for ages 11 and up and for Beginners to Intermediate. Cost is $10/ $5 for students. Wear something red and have a chance to win a prize. Contact Deb at 616-696-8487, deb.caniff@yahoo.com. #8

TOPS weight loss support group

Feb. 26: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclemeent weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #8

Free Blood Pressure Checks

Mar. 4: Metron of Cedar Springs will be providing free blood pressure checks on Monday, March 4th from 1-3 pm at Rite Aid located at 4166 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. #8

Bingo at the American Legion

Mar. 5: Friday night bingo, sponsored by the Sons of The American Legion is now changing to Tuesday Night Bingo starting March 5th, 5:00 pm with bingo starting at 6:00 pm. #8

Benefit Spaghetti Dinner

Mar. 9: A benefit spaghetti dinner for the Mike Tibbe Family will be held on March 9 at the American Legion Hall in Cedar Springs. Dinner is from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and the auction starts at 7 pm. $6 per plate, $10 for two and $18 for four. #8-10p

Rivers and Rain Barrels

Mar. 9: How do your daily activities affect the water quality of area rivers? The West Michigan Environmental Action Council will discuss what all of us can do to protect our treasured resources. Participants can also construct rail barrels for $20, which can be paid in cash or by check. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Saturday, March 9, 10:30 am at the Spencer Township KDL, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. #8

Spring 2013 Soccer Registration

Feb. 14: Spring 2013 Soccer Registration for American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is Feb. 12, 14 and 20 at Beach Elementary School on the Campus of Cedar Springs Public Schools, 204 E. Muskegon from 6pm–8pm each day. Cost for the Spring Session is $60 per child with a $5 discount per child for families registering 3 or more players. Players must be at least 4 years of age as of April 8, 2013. A birth certificate is required for age verification of first time registrants. Please complete online application at www.eayso.org – print two copies and take advantage of our Express Lane! These will be the final registration dates for the Spring Season. Please tell your friends and neighbors. If you have questions please contact the AYSO Hotline at 616-696-7349, or visit us at www.ayso902.org. #5,6,7b

Readers Theatre at the Library

Feb. 14: Looking for something fun to do tonight for Valentine’s Day at 7pm? The Cedar Springs Library is hosting a Readers’ Theatre, Actors del Arte Ensemble presenting, “The Track of the Cat,” by Walter Von Tilburg Clark. John Wayne liked it so much he made it into a movie in 1954. Join this dysfunctional ranching family at the Library as they try to track the cat who is after their herd. Special desserts and soup will be served. #7

Greenville Eagles hosts Breast Cancer Benefit

Feb. 16: The Greenville Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary #4321 invites the community to support a great cause at their Pink Out For Breast Cancer Charity Dinner Saturday, Feb. 16, from 5pm-Midnight at the Greenville Eagles, located at 11690 S. Greenville Rd. The event is open to the public at a cost of $10 and includes a chicken cordon bleu dinner from 5-8pm and music by Scotty from 8pm-Midnight. 50/50 raffles will be held throughout the evening. Proceeds go to Breast Cancer Awareness of Montcalm/Ionia County, the special charity of Auxiliary President Maggie Babcock. For more info contact Greenville Aerie at 616-794-2987 or Maggie Babcock at 616-754-8613. #7

TOPS weight loss support group

Feb. 19: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclemeent weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #7

Roast Pork Dinner

Feb. 20: The East Nelson United Methodist Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd., will be serving a roast pork dinner with cheesy potatoes, corn and strawberry shortcake for dessert on Wednesday, February 20 from 5pm – 7pm. The cost of the meal is by donation. Come join us! If you have any questions, please contact the church at 616-696-0661. #6,7p

Silent auction, bake sale, luncheon

Feb. 23: Come to the Cowden Lake Bible Academy’s 2nd Annual Silent Auction on Saturday, Feb. 23, from 4pm-7pm at the Howard City VFW Hall in Howard City. There will also be a bake sale and a luncheon serving: nachos, hot dogs, sloppy joes, and soda. Proceeds to Cowden Lake Bible Academy for furnace repairs. #7

Class of 2013 Senior Party Fundraisers

Feb. 23/Mar. 9: Zumba Class – Feb 23rd 10am at the Cedar Springs Middle School. The event is open for ages 11 and up and for Beginners to Intermediate. Cost is $10 preregister or $13 at the door. Wear something red and have a chance to win a prize. Contact Deb Caniff at 696-8487 deb.caniff@yahoo.com. Casino Bus Trip – March 9th to Little River Casino. $40 pp you receive $20 gaming voucher / $5 food voucher. Leaving Cedar Springs 9:30am and arriving back around 5:30pm. Contact BJ Towers at 616-206-8481 vosbeth@yahoo.com or Dani Mora 616-262-9952 dmora@glcomp.com. #7.8p

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Archery at Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club

Feb. 7: Come to the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club on Thursdays starting February 7 through March 28 at 7pm. 7463 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. #5,6p

Become a Volunteer Reading Tutor Today

Feb. 7: One Child. 30 Minutes. Once a week. Schools of Hope volunteers give 30 minutes of one-on-one tutoring every week to improve the reading skills of first through third graders. Email mkrick@hwmuw.org or call 616-696-1204 ext. 1345 today! #6

Cedar Springs Garden Club Meeting

Feb. 12: The Cedar Springs Garden Club will meet on Tuesday, February 12 at the Springs Church, 135 N. Grant St., at 7pm. Everyone is welcome. The main topic this month will be winter birds and care of house plants. Questions, call Caroline, 616-696-9106. #6

Spring 2013 Soccer Registration

Feb. 12: Spring 2013 Soccer Registration for American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is Feb. 12, 14 and 20 at Beach Elementary School on the Campus of Cedar Springs Public Schools, 204 E. Muskegon from 6pm – 8pm each day. Cost for the Spring Session is $60 per child with a $5 discount per child for families registering 3 or more players. Players must be at least 4 years of age as of April 8, 2013. A birth certificate is required for age verification of first time registrants. Please complete online application at www.eayso.org – print two copies and take advantage of our Express Lane! These will be the final registration dates for the Spring Season. Please tell your friends and neighbors. If you have questions please contact the AYSO Hotline at 616-696-7349, or visit us at www.ayso902.org. #5,6,7b

Valentines Dinner

Feb. 14: Members, bring in your friends to this special dinner and music. Tri-County Eagles in Sand Lake, Thursday, February 14^th. Dinner from 4 – 8pm, Rib Eye steak, potato, garlic toast and salad bar, $11.75. Entertainment from 8 – 11pm by Rhythm Masters, Clint Gitchel & Jerry Roberts starting. #4-6p

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Feb. 16: The Cedar Springs Lions Club is hosting a pancake breakfast every third Saturday of each month January thru April. (Feb. 16, Mar. 16 & Apr. 20) Come to the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church located on the corner of Main & Church Streets on Saturday March 16 from 7 am to 11 am, for an all-you-can-eat breakfast including pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, juice and coffee. Buy your tickets now from a Lions Club member and get $1 off. Contact Art Probst, 616-696-9340 or Seth Baker-Donnan, 616-696-9370 for ticket information. Proceeds to assist sight conservation. #6

Herpetology for Preschoolers

Feb. 18: Snakes, Turtles, Tortoises! Preschooler Day of learning about Herpetology. Children will get an up-close look and be able to watch, touch and feed our slithering pets. Monday February 18 from 9:30am – 12:30pm. Donation of $3.00 per child. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #5

Roast Pork Dinner

Feb. 20: The East Nelson United Methodist Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd., will be serving a roast pork dinner with cheesy potatoes, corn and strawberry shortcake for dessert on Wednesday, February 20 from 5pm – 7pm. The cost of the meal is by donation. Come join us! If you have any questions, please contact the church at 616-696-0661. #6,7p

Girls Rock Star Party

Feb. 23: The Cedar Springs Public Library is calling all girls grades 1-5 to ROCK on over to The Springs Free Methodist Church, 135 N. Grant Street from 10 to 11:15am on Saturday, February 23, to lip-sync, dance, write lyrical poems, make microphones, and get your hair sprayed! Wear your best glitter, shiny, fuzzy, funky stuff to have the time of your young life! Parents welcome. RSVP by calling the Library at 616-696-1910 or stop by 43 W. Cherry Street. #6

Daddy daughter dance

Feb. 2: The 9th Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance will be held Saturday, Feb. 2, at Cedar Springs Middle School. Doors open at 6:15pm and dance begins at 7. Tickets must be pre-purchased. Cost for a couple is $15, for a group of three is $18, and a group of four or more $20. Tickets on sale at Cedar Springs Public Schools district office (Hilltop) from 8am-4pm Thursday and Friday, and at Cedar Springs Middle School from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday.

Rockford Rebels 12u Tryouts

Feb. 2: The Rockford Rebels 12u baseball team will be holding a tryout for remaining roster positions on the 2013 travel baseball team. Tryouts will be Saturday, February 2 at 3pm at the Rebels Training Facility located at 9330 Belding Rd., Rockford. To register and for more information, contact Micah Braman at 616-232-8422 or email: braman1mj@cmich.edu. #4,5p

Archery at Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club

Feb. 7: Come to the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club on Thursdays starting February 7 through March 28 at 7pm. 7463 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. #5,6p

Help Promote Literacy!

Feb. 7: The Literacy Center of West Michigan, 1120 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 240, Grand Rapids, has scheduled an information session on Thursday, February 7 for prospective volunteer tutors. This session is held at 6:30pm and lasts one hour. It allows interested persons in becoming volunteer tutors to find out more about the Center and its literacy programs. At the end of the session, there will be an opportunity to sign up for tutor training. Please call us at 616-459-5151 (ex. 10) to register. #5

Winterfest

Feb. 8-9: The Sand Lake Winterfest will take place on Friday, February 8 and Saturday, February 9. Pinewood derby, ice skating in the park, ice fishing contest, outhouse race, snowman contest, hot dog eating contest and more. For a full schedule of events please visit www.sandlakechamberofcommerce.com. #5

Lost on the Lady Elgin

Feb. 11: Valerie van Heest, award-wining author and member of the Women Diver’s Hall of Fame, discusses the Lake Michigan sinking of the Lady Elgin in 1860. Monday, February 11 at 6:30 pm. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #5

Spring 2013 Soccer Registration

Feb. 12: Spring 2013 Soccer Registration for American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is Feb. 12, 14 and 20 at Beach Elementary School on the Campus of Cedar Springs Public Schools, 204 E. Muskegon from 6pm – 8pm each day. Cost for the Spring Session is $60 per child with a $5 discount per child for families registering 3 or more players. Players must be at least 4 years of age as of April 8, 2013. A birth certificate is required for age verification of first time registrants. Please complete online application at www.eayso.org – print two copies and take advantage of our Express Lane! These will be the final registration dates for the Spring Season. Please tell your friends and neighbors. If you have questions please contact the AYSO Hotline at 616-696-7349, or visit us at www.ayso902.org. #5,6,7b

Valentine Candlelight Snowshoe Walk

Feb. 14: Bring your Sweetheart out (People of all ages and abilities are welcome to enjoy the candlelit trails). The walk is 2 miles and suitable for beginner-level snowshoers and hikers. Walk will be lead by a naturalist. After the walk, enjoy hot chocolate, coffee and cookies by our fireside “Smooches”. Thursday, February 14th from 6-9pm. Donation of $5 per person, snowshoes included. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #5

Valentines Dinner

Feb. 14: Members, bring in your friends to this special dinner and music. Tri-County Eagles in Sand Lake, Thursday, February 14th. Dinner from 4 – 8pm, Rib Eye steak, potato, garlic toast and salad bar, $11.75. Entertainment from 8 – 11pm by Rhythm Masters, Clint Gitchel & Jerry Roberts starting. #4-6p

Winterfest

Jan. 26: You are invited to the Izaak Walton League for a Winterfest Celebration on Saturday January 26 from 10am – 3pm at Ikes’ Conservation Center, 5641 Myers Lake Rd., ½ mile north of Cannonsburg ski area. Snow-shoeing, sledding, ice skating, snow games, archery, tracking & nature walk, bird-feeder crafts, (some activities depend of the weather), plus a bonfire & food! Good winter fun and it’s all FREE! This is a community event for all ages. Come and bring your friends and family. Watch for parking instructions. #4

TOPS weight loss support group

Jan. 29: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclemeent weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #4

Rockford Rebels 12u Tryouts

Feb. 2: The Rockford Rebels 12u baseball team will be holding a tryout for remaining roster positions on the 2013 travel baseball team. Tryouts will be Saturday, February 2 at 3pm at the Rebels Training Facility located at 9330 Belding Rd., Rockford. To register and for more information, contact Micah Braman at 616-232-8422 or email: brama1mj@cmich.edu. #4,5p

Ground Hogs, Are They Out There?

Feb. 2: Come learn about this creature they call the Groundhog! What family is he from? Is he a nuisance or is he a wonderful little creature? Will he see his shadow (and who cares?). Learn all about the Groundhog with a Naturalist and a walk! Saturday, February 2^nd from 9am – 12pm. Donation of $5 per person. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #4

Chess Anyone?

Feb. 4: Drop-in-chess at the library! All skill levels welcome. An adult is usually on hand to help you with your game or match you with a worthy opponent. Monday, February 4 at 6:30 pm. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St., Sand Lake. #4

Free Blood Pressure Check

Feb. 4: Metron of Cedar Springs will be providing free blood pressure checks on Monday February 4 from 1-3pm at Rite Aid, Cedar Springs. #4

Moose On The Loose

Feb. 5: Hang on to your antlers! KDL is celebrating the Michigan Reads picture book selection, Moose on the Loose by Kathy-Jo Wargin. Hear great moose stories, make your own antlers and more! Tuesday, February 5 at 10:30 am. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St., Sand Lake. #4

Children Stories for Preschoolers

Feb. 6: Listening to stories and exploring nature are two activities that most children enjoy. A naturalist will read stories to children ages three to five, and lead them on a walk to experience what the season has to offer. Stories include The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss and The Dreamer, by Cynthia Rylant. Wednesday, February 6^th from 9am – 12pm. Donation of $3 per child. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #4

Valentines Dinner

Feb. 14: Members, bring in your friends to this special dinner and music. Tri-County Eagles in Sand Lake, Thursday, February 14^th. Dinner from 4 – 8pm, Rib Eye steak, potato, garlic toast and salad bar, $11.75. Entertainment from 8 – 11pm by Rhythm Masters, Clint Gitchel & Jerry Roberts starting. #4

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

2013 Red Flannel Festival

Jan. 18: The 2013 Red Flannel Festival Board is ready to begin planning this year’s Festival! Are you interested in volunteering or receiving additional information? Do you have a nomination for the 2013 Grand Marshal? All Grand Marshal’s have exceptional community service and direct volunteerism with the 74 year old Festival! Please email president@redflannelfestival.org for a detailed application by Jan. 18! #2,3p

Chili Cook-off

Jan. 18: Pierson Bible Church will be holding a Chili Cook-off on Friday night, January 18th. If interested in competing, contact Greg at 231-206-7847. #3

Pancake Breakfast

Jan. 19: The Cedar Springs Lions Club will be hosting a pancake breakfast on Saturday, January 19 from 7am – 11am at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church (corner of Main and Church). All you can eat – eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, juice & coffee. Adults $7.00, Seniors $6.00, Family $21.00. Proceeds assist sight conservation. #3

KDL Gives Back

Jan. 20: Beginning January 20 and running through February 28, drop off travel or small-size hygiene products at any KDL branch to support the 2,900 students in Kent County currently experiencing homelessness. Hygiene kits will be assembled and distributed in cooperation with the Kent Intermediate School District. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township Branch, 88 Eighth St. Sand Lake, Spencer Township Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave. #3

Roast Beef Dinner

Jan. 20: The Rockford Veterans of Foreign Wars at 4195 – 13 Mile Rd. is hosting a roast beef dinner on the third Sunday of the month, January 20th. Adults $9, children $4.50. The best dinner in town! Take outs and deliveries are available. For deliveries cal 616-866-2675 by 11:30 the day of the dinner. #3

Teen Challenge at Pilgrim Bible

Jan. 20: Pierson Bible Church will be hosting Teen Challenge on Sunday morning, January 20th during the 11am service. A potluck is immediately following, so bring a dish to pass and plan to attend. #3

TOPS weight loss support group

Jan. 22: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclement weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #3

Cure for Cabin Fever

Jan. 26: Need a cure for cabin fever? Join us for a fundraiser for the Cedar Springs Public Library on Saturday, January 26 from 10am to 4pm at the United Methodist Church (corner of Main St. and Church St. in Cedar Springs). There will be a quilt show (register quilts at the library for display at show), craft book and fabric sale, silent auction and book sale. For more information contact the Cedar Springs Public Library, 616-696-1910 or Kim Gillow, 616-696-3168. #3

Family Fun Day

Jan. 26: Here is your chance to come out and play in the snow with us. The wee-folks slide will be laid out for wee ones, take a short snowshoe walk with your family, snowman building contest, brisk walk of the trails and join in other fun snow-filled games in our open prairie, then warm up with a bowl of chili, brownies and hot cocoa. Saturday, January 26 from 12 noon to 4pm. Donation $6/person or $20 for family (four or more). Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #3

Raw Vegan + Dessert = Fabulous!

Feb. 2: Chocolate. Ice Cream. Cobbler. Margaux Drake, WOTV 4 Women’s “healthy eats” expert, will show you how to make healthy, delicious desserts with simple organic ingredients. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Saturday, February 2 at 10am. Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave. 616-784-2007. #3

Model “T” Nuts Club Meeting

Jan. 12: The first meeting of the Model “T” Nuts Club will be Saturday, January 12, 9:30am, at Herman’s Boy in Rockford. #2

Lakeside Girls AAU Tryouts

Jan. 13: Lakeside Girls AAU will conduct area tryouts of 4-6th grade girls. Sunday, January 13 at Grand Rapids Union from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Go to www.lakesidehoops.org or call coach Slater 616-918-3745. #2

Understanding How Poverty Affects Children

Jan. 14: Parents, mentors, teachers and school personnel, come to a pertinent presentation by Dr. Roger Sellon, Staff Child Psychologist at Kids Hope USA. The topic is understanding how poverty affects children and learning. Monday, January 14 at 7pm. East Nelson UM Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs. #2

Roast Beef Dinner

Jan. 16: The East Nelson United Methodist Church will be serving a Roast Beef Dinner with mashed potatoes, carrots, and homemade desserts on Wednesday, January 16 from 5 to 7pm. This dinner will benefit the East Nelson United Methodist Church Youth. The cost of the meal is by donation. Come join us! If you have any questions, please contact the church at 616-696-0661. #1,2p

Family Storytime

Jan. 17: Share books, stories, rhyme, music and movement as a family; develop early literacy skills and encourage a love of reading. Thursdays, January 17 – February 28 at 6:30pm. Spencer Township KDL, 14960 Meddler Ave. #2

2013 Red Flannel Festival

Jan. 18: The 2013 Red Flannel Festival Board is ready to begin planning this year’s Festival! Are you interested in volunteering or receiving additional information? Do you have a nomination for the 2013 Grand Marshal? All Grand Marshal’s have exceptional community service and direct volunteerism with the 74 year old Festival! Please email president@redflannelfestival.org for a detailed application by Jan. 18! #2,3p

The New Health Care Law & You

Jan. 18: Stay on top of your health! Get the facts on what the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is all about and what it means for you. Presented by Lisa Ross, consumer outreach coordinator for the State of Michigan. Friday, January 18 at 1:30 pm at the Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St. Sand Lake. #2

Art Show at Howard City’s VFW Hall

Jan. 19: An art show featuring two local artisits will be held at the Howard City VFW Hall on January 19th from 9am-3pm. Wade Mansel, a talented artist who paints wild life on moose horns he gets from Canada. His paintings are perfect, the best in his field. Roy Bills paints country music stars on the backs of full size guitars and also paints Indians and western themes. There will also be a Euchre tournament between 9am and 3pm. #1,2p

Family Fun Day

Jan. 20: Snow Golf (longest ball), Snake Shove, Snowshoeing, Scavenger Hunt, Children’s Activities. All games and fun take place in our Prairie – North of Interpretive Center. Chili, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate and brownies will be eaten in the Interpretive Center. Sunday January 20 from 12 noon to 3pm. Donation $6/person or $20 for family (four or more). Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #2

Auditions for Godspell

Jan. 4,5: The Cedar Springs Community Players will be holding auditions for the musical Godspell, Friday January 4 from 6:30-8:30pm and Saturday, January 5 from 10am until noon at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church on the corner of Church and Main Streets in Cedar Springs. Godspell, tells parables of Jesus from the Gospel of Matthew in song. Men and women singers, ages 17 and up are needed for the cast. Please prepare 16 bars of any song to sing or we can provide something to check your vocal range. Two guitarists, a drummer, and a keyboard player are also needed for the show. Laura Johnson is directing the musical that will be presented February 20 – 24 at the Kent Theatre. If you have any questions you may contact Laura by email lmnj2000@yahoo.com or phone 616-696-9636. Hope to see you there! #1

TOPS weight loss support group

Jan. 8: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your weight loss goals! Exercise 8-8:30am (optional), weigh-ins from 8:30am–9am and the meeting starts at 9:15am. In case of inclemeent weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #1

Health Workshop with Veronica Strouse

Jan. 8: The solution to your Holiday Resolution for better health is just four classes away at the Cedar Springs Library on Tuesday evenings at 6:30-8:30pm, January 8, 15, 22 and 29. Join Health Minister Veronica Strouse as she shares how to have vibrant health no matter where you are on the Health Path. Cost of each class is $10 due to the food samples and recipes shared. Class size is limited to 15, so RSVP today by library phone 616-696-1910 or email: “Health Class” to ceddc@llcoop.org. All welcome! #1

Story Time for Babies and Families

Jan. 8: Delight and stimulate your baby with songs, a story and playtime. For babies from birth to 18 months with a caregiver. Tuesdays Jan. 8-Feb. 16 at 9:45am. Family story time is for ages 6 and under. Share books, stories, rhymes, music, and movement as a family, develop early literacy skills and encourage a love of reading. Tuesdays, Jan. 8-Feb. 16 at 10:30am. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St. Sand Lake. #1

Rhyme Time Music and Movement

Jan. 9: Move and groove together with action rhymes, songs, games and hands-on musical activities that will help children develop motor, listening and literacy skills. Wednesdays, Jan. 9-Feb. 27 at 6:30pm. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St. Sand Lake. #1

Snowshoe Workshop

Jan. 13: Learn how to snowshoe. Workshop will teach you the basics of how to snowshoe. Snowshoes included in class. Learn how to put on, walk in and how to easily take off. Sunday, Jan. 13 from 12 noon to 3pm. Donation of $3.75/person or $20 for family (four or more). Class geared for ages 8 – 88 years old. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #1

Roast Beef Dinner

Jan. 16: The East Nelson United Methodist Church will be serving a Roast Beef Dinner with mashed potatoes, carrots, and homemade desserts on Wednesday, January 16 from 5 to 7pm. This dinner will benefit the East Nelson United Methodist Church Youth. The cost of the meal is by donation. Come join us! If you have any questions, please contact the church at 616-696-0661. #1,2p

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Jan. 19: Starting in January the Lions Club will be hosting their annual Pancake Breakfast on the third Saturday of the month (January-April). You can buy your tickets early from any Lions Club member and get a $1.00 off! Contact Art Probst at 696-9340 or Seth Baker-Donnan at 696-9397 for ticket info. The pancake breakfasts will be held at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church located on the corner of Main & Church Streets from 7 am to 11 am, and will serve an all-you-can-eat breakfast including pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, juice and coffee. Proceeds to assist sight conservation. #1

Art Show at Howard City’s VFW Hall

Jan. 19: An art show featuring two local artisits will be held at the Howard City VFW Hall on January 19th from 9am-3pm. Wade Mansel, a talented artist who paints wild life on moose horns he gets from Canada. His paintings are perfect, the best in his field. Roy Bills paints country music stars on the backs of full size guitars and also paints Indians and western themes. There will also be a Euchre tournament between 9am and 3pm. #1,2p