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

Tri County Eagles’ New Year’s Eve Party

Dec. 31: Come to the Tri County Eagles in Sand Lake for a New Year’s Eve Party! Open to the Public. The evening starts with a prime rib dinner from 4pm – 9pm, call 616-636-8787 to RSVP for $11.75 per person or at the door for $13.00 per person. Vegas Night starts at 6pm – includes Black Jack, Roulette, Texas Holdem, 3 card poker, and a 50/50 raffle. The O’Brother Band will provide live entertainment. There will be champagne & snacks at midnight. License#M79231. #51,52p

Michigan’s Owls

Jan. 6: Listening to the hooting of owls has to be one of life’s most special pleasures. Learning more about Michigan’s owls gives those calls even more meaning. Join naturalist Greg Swanson as he introduces you to owl biology and a number of owls during an indoor presentation then head outdoors in search of these elusive nocturnal wonders. Sunday, January 6 from 6 to 8pm. Donation of $6/person or $15/family. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #52

TOPS weight loss support group

Jan. 8: Start the New Year off right with TOPS. 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. #52

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.

Wanted! Pop Cans

Dec. 13: The CTA Cheerleaders are asking area residents to donate their pop cans to help pay for uniforms and other expenses. Call 616-638-1970 for drop off location or will pick up. #50

Indoor Live Nativity

Dec. 15: There will be an indoor live Nativity at Sand Lake United Methodist Church at 65 W. Maple St. on Saturday, December 15 from 5:30 to 8pm. #49,50p

TOPS weight loss support group

Dec. 18: 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 Sporings schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #50

Family Building Bricks Party

Dec. 18-19: Design, build and bond. Bring the whole family together and create a towering monument using the library’s building bricks. The best part? No big mess at home to clean up! Tuesday, December 18, 10:30am and Wednesday, December 19, 6:30pm at the Sand Lake/Nelson Township library, 88 Eighth St., Sand Lake. #50

Gingerbread Lane

Dec. 22: Stroll down Gingerbread Lane and enjoy tasty gingerbread stories at the Sand Lake/Nelson Township library, 88 Eighth St. on Saturday, December 22. Each child will make a simple gingerbread house. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. Call 616-784-2007 or (877)243-2466. #50

Kent County Teen Film Festival

Jan. 7: Lights! Camera! Action! Kent County teens, grades 6-12, are invited to enter the Kent County Teen Film Festival. Deadline for submission is Monday, January 7. Selected films will be screened Saturday, February 2 at Celebration! Cinema North (2121 Celebration Dr. NE). Check www.kdl.org/teens for more information, or visit your local KDL branch. #50

Attention Quilters and Fabric Artists:

Jan. 26: The Cedar Springs Public Library is hosting a Cure For Cabin Fever book sale and quilt show January 26. We are in need of donations of quilt and craft books and any extra fabric from your stash. We also need entries for the quilt show. Donations can be dropped off at the library. For more information contact Kim Gillow at 696-3168. #50p

Wild Game Dinner Fundraiser

Feb. 23: The Cedar Springs Athletic Boosters is sponsoring a Wild Game Dinner Fundraiser on Saturday, February 23 at the Rockford American Legion. Silent and live auctions along with gun raffles will be offered. Tickets are $25 per person. Bring yourself and anyone interested in an evening with hunting talks. Don’t forget your dish to pass. Only 300 tickets available. Please call Jodi Mouthaan at 636-4158 or Pam Todd at 696-3526. #50

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.

Special Study in December at Cedar Springs UMC

Dec. 2: Christmas is not your birthday! This is a provocative statement in light of our consumer-driven culture, and a deep truth that we need to reclaim. We’ll begin a series called “A Different Kind of Christmas” that will challenge us as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus, Emmanuel. Join us for worship at 9:00 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. along with a special Christian Education class at 10:15 a.m. May we each have a renewed appreciation of the Gift we have been given, Jesus Christ! #48,49b

Metron of Cedar Springs Coat Drive

Dec. 6: Metron of Cedar Springs, 400 Jeffrey, will be holding a coat drive now through Dec. 20th. All coats will be given to the North Kent Service Center. If you have any questions concerning the coat drive, please contact Billie Vanderlaan, Community Relations Coordinator at 616-204-2615. #49

Christmas Flea Market

Dec. 8: Come join us at Renner-Lobker VFW Post 3306, 1001 S. Ensley, Howard City, on Saturday December 8 for our Christmas Flea Market. Garage Sale, Yard Sale and Craft items. For more information call Dee Becker at 231-937-5504. #48,49p

Christmas with Santa

Dec. 8: Santa will be at the Sand Lake/Nelson Township Library from 10 a.m. to Noon a.m. on Saturday, December 8. Visit with Santa and enjoy crafts and treats. Gifts aplenty for the first 200 children! Prize drawings will be held. For all ages.

Local Author, Shirley Neff at Cedar Springs Library

Dec. 8: Local Children’s Author, Shirley Neff, will be selling and signing her new book, “The Reluctant Swan,” based on a true story out at White Creek Estates. She will be at the Cedar Springs Public Library on Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 am to 1:30 pm, during the library’s Gingerbread House decorating party. Books are half price at $10.00. #49

3rd – 6th Grade Boys Rocket Basketball

Dec. 8: Does your son want to become a basketball star? Get them started with this program that begins on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Cedar View Elementary. Times and prices range depending on grade. Please find registration forms online at www.csaparksandrec.com or stop by CS Public Schools District Office and register in person. For more information you can call the Cedar Springs Area Parks and Recreation Office Monday – Wednesday, 8:30 am – 3 pm at 616-696-7320. #38,49p

A Christmas Night of Worship

Dec. 9: Solon Center Wesleyan Church is presenting a Christmas Night of Worship. Coffee, Candles, Carols and Praise. This Sunday evening, December 9th at 6 pm. Desserts and coffee will be served during the concert. The church is located on Algoma Avenue, just north of 19 Mile Rd. Come join us for a great night of celebrating Christmas. All welcome! #49p

Drop-In Craft Time

Dec. 12: Drop in at the library from some creative fun with this self-directed, holiday themed activity. Wednesday, December 12 and 26 at 6:30 pm. Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL, 88 Eighth St. #49

Potluck Appreciation Dinner for ALL

Dec. 14: FREE! Christmas Party – Appreciation Party for those who love the nature center. Friday, December 14th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Good Times – Bring the whole family. Everyone welcomed. Bring a dish to pass. We will have a white elephant gift exchange (call for details). Trivia Game (HCNC History). Gift for all. Please register you food item so we do not have too many duplicates. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. 616-675-3158. #49

Indoor Live Nativity

Dec. 15: There will be an indoor live Nativity at Sand Lake United Methodist Church at 65 W. Maple St. on Saturday December 15 from 5:50 to 8 pm. #49,50p

Children’s Make and Take!

Dec. 15: What could be better than a gift from your child’s hearts? Let you child make a gift for you! Your child will make a unique gift(s), possibly an assortment of Pom-Pom Christmas Trees – Glue Snowman’s Christmas Ornaments and more. Our team of volunteers will help your child wrap your secret gift. Saturday, Dec. 15 from 9 am to 11 am. Donation of $12 a child. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #49

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.

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.

Senior Lunch

Nov. 28: Gobble, gobble, gobble, it’s the last Senior Lunch of the year. Ma’s perusin the pantry figurin what to serve with turkey breast n gravy. Will it be over biscuits, a casserole, or thick slices along side mashed taters, both slathered with gravy next to a tasty veggie piled high? Gotcha guessin now…eh? All our friends aged 60 and those even more, come on by the 28^th at noon here on our corner of M-82 & Beech to find out the answer. #47

Christmas Musical at the Kent Theatre

Nov. 29-Dec. 2: You’ll want to kick off your holiday season this year by attending the Cedar Springs Theatre Association’s production of “Bah Humbug! Scrooge’s Christmas Carol.” Wonderful family fun and entertainment! Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 29-Dec. 1 and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Kent Theatre, which is located in downtown Cedar Springs. Tickets will be $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under and are available at the Cedar Springs Public Library, Alpha Omega Coffee and Games shop, located on Main Street Cedar Springs, or by calling 616-696-SHOW. #46-48p

Metron of Cedar Springs Food Drive

Nov. 30: Metron of Cedar Springs located at 400 Jeffrey will be hosting a food drive through November 30. All proceeds will be given to local church food pantries. #47

Senior Christmas Potluck Dinner

Dec. 1: There will be a Senior Potluck Dinner on Saturday December 1 from 1 to 3 pm at the Spencer Township Hall, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. Bring a dessert or dish to pass. Meat, rolls and coffee provided. For more information call 616-984-0035.  #46-48p

Resurrection Lutheran Bazaar

Dec. 1: The Resurrection Lutheran Church will hold a Bazaar on Sat. Dec. 1 from 9 am – 3 pm. There will be 25 crafters, a Library sale, bake sale, knife sale and White Elephant sale. Lunch will be available.  180 Northland Drive, Sand Lake. #47.48p

Cookie Walk

Dec. 1: St. Peter’s Lutheran Ladies is hosting a Cookie Walk on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012 from 9 am until the cookies are gone. 310 E. Division St. NE, Rockford. #47,48p

Annual Christmas Bazaar

Dec. 1: The annual Christmas Bazaar & Luncheon will be at Heritage UMC on the corner of Federal and Kendaville Rd., 2 miles south of Howard City. It is Saturday Dec. 1 from 9 am to 2 pm and features; artisan craft show, homemade soup/ pie luncheon, candy & baked goods and white elephants. #47

Christmas Tour of Homes

Dec. 1: The Timothy C. Hauenstein Reynolds Township presents the 2012 Christmas Tour of Homes on Sat. Dec. 1 from 12:30 to 4:30pm. Tickets are $10 in advance at the Library or at Kindel & Company. Tickets the day of the event are $12. Ticket price includes one Christmas ornament. There will also be a reception following at the Library from 4:30 to 5:30 pm with door prize drawings. You need not to be present to win. #47

Cossin Fund Cristmas Distribution

De. 7: Due to the generosity of the late Evelyn Cossin, there are limited funds available to assist families in need for Christmas. The funds are available only to families living in the Cedar Springs city limits. Please send or bring letters requesting assistance to: Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main St., PO Box K, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, c/o Janet Avery. All letters should include some brief summary of your need for assistance. Letters must be submitted, post marked and received NO LATER THAN, December 7, 2012. #47,48p

Women’s Ministry Event

Nov. 9: A “Transforming Experience” will be held at the Solon Center Wesleyan Church on Friday, November 9 at 7pm. A guest speaker will give her inspirational testimony and there will be special music with audience participation, food and door prizes promising a fun and transforming experience. Tickets are just $5, and all proceeds will go to help meet the personal needs of the girls of Kwirenyi High School in Kenya. The church is located at 15671 Algoma Avenue, just north of 19 Mile Road. For tickets contact the church office at 696-3229. Everyone welcome! #44,45b

Winter coat drive

Nov. 10: Are you in need of a good winter coat? The Springs Church is giving away FREE coats and other winter gear on Saturday, November 10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church, 135 N. Grant Street, Cedar Springs. No need to qualify. Just come in. For more info, please call the church at 696-2970.

Sand Lake Lions Club Variety Sale

Nov. 10: 9am-3pm at the Sand Lake United Methodist Ed. Building. Crafts, gently used toys and clothing, Lions pecans and cashews, church bake sale and much more. Call 616-636-5425 or 616-347-6122 for more information. #44,45p

Unwrap the Joy!

Nov. 10: Pine Ridge Bible Camp invites you to a Silent and Live Auction on Saturday, November 10 at the Cedar Springs High School (just 1 mile east of 131 off exit 104) Registration at 5:30pm, auction begins at 6:30pm. One stop shopping: Gift certificates, Disney tickets, homemade items, gift baskets, scrapbooking items and much more. Appetizers and desserts provided. Please note: we are unable to provide childcare this year. The auction is an adult only event. #45p

Virtual Travel Adventure to Madagascar

Nov. 12: Are you interested in pirates, wildlife and island life? Come to the island of Madagascar, the fourth largest island of the world for just $10. The tour will take place on Monday November 12, at 6:30pm at the Cedar Springs High School Auditorium. They will take you on a journey to the island that will make you feel like you have made the trip. Cost is $10 and students can come with a paid adult for only $5. These are a great educational event for persons of all ages and great for families to come and enjoy together. Doors open at 6 p.m.

TOPS weight loss support group

Nov. 13: 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 Sporings schools are closed. Call Martha at 696-1039 for more information. #28

CPR Health Care Provider-Refresher

Nov. 13: CPR Health Care Provider-Refresher is a refresher course and the course fee includes the cost of the card. The course meets on Nov. 15 from 5-9pm at Montcalm Community College’s Ash TLC, formerly M-TEC, in Greenville. The cost is $45. Advance registration is required. Visit www.montcalm.edu/noncredit for course details or to register online or e-mail M-TEC Assistant Mary Jo McCully at marym@montcalm.edu or call 616-754-7706 or 887-328-2111 ext. 610 for more information. #45

Keep America Beautiful – Recycle That!

Nov. 15: FREE FREE FREE. Thursday, November 15th from 9am – 3pm. Howard Christensen Nature Center at 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City is hosting a day of recycling. Bring the following, computers, cell phones, electronics. We will have dumpster ready courtesy of West MI Waste. #45

Solon Center Wesleyan Church Bazaar

Nov. 17: Accomplish your Christmas shopping at our annual craft bazaar, Saturday, November 17 from 9am-3pm. Lots of vendors (our largest bazaar in many years). Delicious, fresh baked cookies and bars, numerous booths of had crafted items & jewelry, and many other vendors. There’s definitely something for everyone. Cinnamon rolls and coffee, and a lunch counter are also available. The church is located at 15671 Algoma Avenue, just north of 19 Mile Road. #44-46b

Natural Ornaments & Pinecone Wreaths

Nov. 18: Create a selection of holiday ornaments made from natural and collected materials used to bring a bit of the outdoors into your home this season. Best suited for adults and teenagers. Sunday November 18 from 1-3pm. Donation of $6/person or $15 family. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. Pre-registration is NOT required, however registering is greatly appreciated. 616-675-3158. #45

Thanksgiving Community Dinner

Nov. 22: The community is invited to enjoy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings! Rockford Reformed Church, on the corner of 11 Mile and the Beltline (4890 Eleven Mile Rd.) will host a Thanksgiving Dinner for the 6th year in a row. The church hopes to serve 150+patrons on Thanksgiving day. The doors will open at 12:30 for a special Thanksgiving Blessing with meal service starting at 1 pm.. Please call 616-866-2308 to RSVP or view our website for more information, www.rockfordreformedchurch.org/thanksgiving-community-dinner. #45