Snowshoe Trails Open and Rentals Available
Jan. 19: (When conditions permit) Seven days a week, 9:30 am – 4 pm. Please call ahead to check on snow conditions and availability of rentals during the week. Families with young children: try out our smaller shoes for age four and older, or bring a sled to pull your toddlers. There is no guide. Snowshoe rental: $3.75/ adults, $3/ students & seniors. Trail use: no charge. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.  #3

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast
Jan 21:     The Cedar Springs Lions Club is hosting a pancake breakfast every third Saturday of each month January thru April. Come to the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church located on the corner of Main & Church Streets on Saturday Jan. 21 from 7 am to 11 am, for an all-you-can-eat breakfast including pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, juice and coffee. Adults $6.00, Seniors $5.00, Children under 12 free. Proceeds to assist sight conservation.  #3

Winter Family Fun Day
Jan. 22: Ignore those folks who complain about winter. 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 and s’mores by our new campfire pit (near N entrance). Sunday, Jan. 22 from 12 noon to 4 pm. Cost is $6/ person or $15 for family (four or more). Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.  #3

TOPS weight loss support group
Jan. 24: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss sport 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. #3

Candlelight Snowshoe Walk
Jan. 28, Feb. 11: Enjoy a gorgeous walk/ excursion through the nature center’s scenic trails, in the quiet of the night – listen to the nocturnal sounds as we go along. Hot refreshments  will be served and snowshoe equipment will be provided. A $2 discount is available to participants who bring their own snowshoes. Saturdays, Jan. 28 & Feb. 11 from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. Cost: $8/ adults, $5 seniors or $25 family (four or more). Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.  #3

A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales.
The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small.
“But Jonah was swallowed by a whale,” stated the little girl.
Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible.
The little girl said, “When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah.”
The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?”
The little girl replied, “Then you ask him.”

Jan. 19, 20, 21

The Kent Theatre will play host to a student-written and directed play by the talented Shayna Gross, in collaboration with the Tri County Theatre Group. Her clever comedy is titled “Two Idiots and a Cheat.”
Gross, the Kent Theatre and the Tri County Theatre Group have worked together for the past four years to present performances of horror, family comedy, British Classics and now a sure-fire hit—a political satire targeting the foibles and follies of those seeking office. Each scene presents the characters in a light in which they need to display their charm and wit, which may or may not add a positive tone to their political aspirations. Nevertheless, they never fail to amuse. Even if politics puts a pit your stomach, Shayna Gross’ quick-witted humor will surely fill it with laughter.
Performances are January 19, 20 and 21 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee performance at 4 p.m. on January 21. Tickets will be $5 with student identification and $10 for all other seats.
Seating is general admission. Proceeds will assist the Kent Theatre in collaborating with creative groups and their endeavors and the Tri County Theatre Group’s future efforts in play performances.

Two fundraisers held last weekend earned money toward the $50,000 challenge match toward the Cedar Springs Library building fund.

The gently used gown sale held at the high school Saturday earned $175 toward the cause. According to Christine Burns, who helped organize the event, the dresses that are left will go to local consignment shops, and will still earn money toward the library.

The Biggest Lozer challenge was a popular event, with 25 people weighing in at Curves Saturday. “We raised $562.50 towards the library $50,000 match challenge,” said Alicia Imhoff, organizer. “But more important, we all took a step towards being healthier.”

Donna Clark, Mary Osborne and Debra Jo VanderWerff were winners of the Body By Vi giveaways, courtesy of Sally Howland.

Prizes are being given away for the greatest percentage of body weight lost in three categories: women, men and seniors. And it’s not too late to join. Just stop into Curves during normal business hours:  M-TH 7-11 a.m. and 4-7 p.m., Fri. 7-11a.m. and Sat. 9-11 for their weigh-in, measurements and a $25 entry fee.  Weigh out is in March.

YOGA
Jan. 14: Cedar Springs  Area Parks and Recreations is hosting a yoga class for only $8. The hour long class will help you start your weekend out right! Class is held at the Cedar Springs Middle School on Sat. Jan 14th at 9 am. There are a few mats available, but it is recommended to bring your own if you have one.  #2p

Running Group
Jan. 14:  There is now a chance for you to join other Cedar Springs runners on a weekly basis. Join the Cedar Springs Area Parks and Recreation program this Saturday, January 14th at 9am to get in a great run and hear about the group. The group is open to runners of all abilities. We have runners that focus on the 5K distance and those training for the River Bank Run. The group will meet at the Cedar Springs Middle School.  #2p

Roast Beef Dinner
Jan. 15: The Rockford Veterans of Foreign Wars, 4195 – 13 Mile Rd.,  will host a roast beef dinner on the third Sunday of the Month, Jan. 15. Adults $8, children $3.50. The best dinner in town. Take outs and deliveries are available. For deliveries call 616-866-2675 by 11:30 the day of the dinner.  #2

TOPS weight loss support group
Jan. 17: 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. #2

McTeacher’s Night
Jan. 17: McDonald’s is generously donating 15% of their total sales to CSHS Senior All Night Party 2012, on  Tuesday Jan. 17 from 4 – 8 pm at the Cedar Springs location only, 4141 – 17 Mile Rd. Funds raised help students have a safe and fun environment on their graduation night.  #2

Senior Luncheon
Jan. 17: Come have a great lunch on Jan. 19 at 11:30 am  for only $5 and hear Superintendent Ron McDermed speak about the status of education and our school systems. The luncheon is at Algoma Township Hall and reservations are due by noon on Tues. Jan 17 by calling Cedar Springs Area Parks and Recreation at 616-696-7320.  #2

Roast Beef Dinner
Jan. 18: Wednesday, January 18, the East Nelson United Methodist Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd., will be serving a roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes, carrots, and homemade desserts from 5 to7 pm. 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

Sand Lake 2012 Winterfest Ice Prince & Princess Contest
Jan. 19: There will be a parent meeting for sign ups for the 2012 Sand Lake Winterfest Ice Prince & Princess contest on Thurs. Jan. 19 at 7 pm. This will be held at the Sand Lake/ Nelson Township Library. This contest is open to children attending the Tri- County Schools and are between the ages of 5 -10 yrs of age. Details regarding the contest rules and pageant date will be given at this meeting. For more information, you can go to www.sandlakechamberofcommerce.com or contact Cindy Karafa 616-696-2604 or Susie Dever 616-799-1244.  #2

Be a Miner 49’er
Jan. 21: Mosey on down to the Sand Lake/ Nelson Township KDL Branch for  some good, old-fashioned, Gold Rush inspired fun! Crafts, games and activities for all ages. Saturday, Jan. 21 at 1:30 pm.  88 Eighth St. Sand Lake.  #2

January 13-15

The hit songs of Frank Sinatra and his bandleader Tommy Dorsey have touched the hearts of millions. Close your eyes and you’ll think “Ol’ Blue Eyes” is back in town when the Grand Rapids Symphony presents “Swingin’ with Sinatra and Dorsey.” Three performances, part of the Fox Motors Pops Series, will take place
Friday, Jan. 13 at 8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 14 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 15 at 3 p.m. in DeVos Performance Hall.
The velvety smooth hits of Frank Sinatra and the big band sound of Tommy Dorsey will be recreated as the Symphony teams up with guest conductor Jeff Tyzik, vocalist Steve Lippia, trombonist Jim Pugh and percussionist Dave Mancini. The program features the best of Sinatra and Dorsey. Audiences will enjoy a variety of songs made popular by Sinatra such as “Come Fly with Me,” “The Best is Yet To Come,” “New York, New York,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “All The Way,” and “Fly Me To The Moon.” Also included in the program is “A Dorsey
Tribute,” “Concerto for Trombone,” and “The Lady is a Tramp” from “Babes in Arms.”
“This concert should be a lot of fun,” said Associate Conductor John Varineau. “Steve
Lippia is a great, great Sinatra interpreter.”
Tickets start at $18 and are available at the Symphony office, weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 300 Ottawa NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder), or by calling 616/454-9451, Ext. 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.) Tickets are available at the DeVos Place Box Office, weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster, 800-982-2787, online at www.grsymphony.org, or in person at Ticketmaster
outlets: select D&W Fresh Market and Family Fare stores and Walmart. Tickets purchased at these locations will include a Ticketmaster service fee.

Dates UPDATED: 1/6/2012

United Lifestyles, a member of Spectrum Health United Hospital in Greenville, is offering two programs this month.
Walk and Talk: Trying to lose those holiday pounds? Join Renee DeFrang, Registered Dietitian, for a weekly weigh-in followed by a 10 minute motivational talk on weight loss and a 10 minute group walk. The cost for the program is $30.  The program will be held on Wednesdays starting January 18 through February 29, 2012 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. at Greenville High School, Room 534, 111 Hillcrest, Greenville. (Park in the lot off of Yellow Jacket Drive and use the back entrance.) Registration is required. For more information, call 616.754.6185, ext. 100 or 800.406.4551.
Diabetes question and answer session: United Lifestyles is offering a free question and answer session with a pharmacist on diabetes medications. The session will be on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 from 4:30 to 5 p.m. at 407 S. Nelson, Greenville. Registration is required. For more information, call 616.754.6185, ext. 100 or 800.406.4551.

What happened when the snowgirl fell out with the snowboy?
She gave him the cold shoulder!

What do snowmen wear on their heads?
Ice caps!

What’s an ig?
An Eskimo’s home without a loo!

What do snowmen eat for lunch?
Icebergers!

Where do snowmen go to dance?
Snowballs!

How do snowmen travel around ?
By icicle!

What sort of ball doesn’t bounce ?
A snowball!

How do you know when there is a snowman in your bed?
You wake up wet!

What do you get if you cross a snowman and a shark?
Frost bite !

What do you call an Eskimo cow ?
An Eskimoo !

GriefShare at Cedar Springs UMC
Jan. 8: GriefShare recovery seminar and support group meets at Cedar Springs United Methodist Church in Cedar Springs beginning on Sun. Jan. 8 from 3:30 – 5 pm in the Parlor (upstairs from the south entrance). The church is located at 140 S. Main St. in Cedar Springs (on the corner of Church and Main). GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief and recovery topics. For more information, call the church office at 616-696-1140.  #1

Hoot – Whoo – Who: Michigan’s Owls
Jan. 8: 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 live owls during an indoor presentation. Then head outdoors in search of these elusive nocturnal wonders. Cost: $6/ person or $10/ family. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.   #1

Serious Snowshoe
Jan. 8: Are you serious about getting in shape this winter? Don’t want to do it by yourself? Showshoeing is a great cardiovascular workout. Start with an indoor program on a variety of different topics, then suit up and hit the trails for a bout of invigorating exercise. Best suited for teens and adults. If snow conditions are not adequate, a vigorous hike will be substituted. Cost: $5/ session or $20 for the entire series. Jan. 8, 22, Feb. 5, 19, Mar. 4 from Noon to 3 pm. Includes snowshoe rental. . Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.   #1

TOPS weight loss support group
Jan. 10: 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. #1

First Aid for Children
Jan. 10: This program teaches children how to stay calm and how to act in an emergency situation. Participants will learn how to get help and what to do until help arrives. Basic first aid and rescue breathing skills and what to do in case of a fire will be introduced. Program fee: $6.50. Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16190 Red Pine Dr. Kent City. If interested simply email cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.   #1

Alphabet Safari
Jan. 10: Take a trip on the wild side and hunt for your favorite letters – safari style! This virtual journey to the savannah and jungle will let you experience the alphabet in a new and exciting way through interactive and creative activities. For ages 6 and under. Tues. Jan. 10 at 10:30 am at the KDL Branch Library in Sand Lake, 88 Eighth St.. #1

Country Music every Wednesday
Jan11: Come join your friends and listen to your favorite country music at the Burger King on 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs, every Wednesday morning from 8:30 am until 10:30 am. Featuring the Mill Creek Band.  #1

Cedar Springs Book Club
Jan. 16:  Come join the Cedar Springs Book Club for a good time and some interesting conversation. The featured book for Monday Jan. 16 will be “Seven Wings and the Bleeding Twin Flowers” by local author Tammy Francisco. The book club starts at 7 pm at the CS Library and as a fund raiser, munchies will be available for a donation as well as tea, hot chocolate and specialty coffee.  The book takes place in Cedar Springs and is available on amazon.com for 99¢ for ebook to Kindle, and 99¢ from Barnes & Noble to the Nook.  If possible, RSVP for a count for refreshments, 616-696-1910. #1

Roast Beef Dinner
Jan. 18: Wednesday, January 18, the East Nelson United Methodist Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd., will be serving a roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes, carrots, and homemade desserts from 5 to7 pm. 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