Knights of Columbus to work with Alpha on rest of funding

by Judy Reed

If you’ve Teresa Hathaway, Executive Director of Alpha Family Center recently, you might notice that she’s sporting a new look. Teresa recently had several inches of her hair cut off as part of the incentive for people to donate during their 20/20 Vision for Life Ultra Sound campaign over the summer. 

Alpha decided earlier this year to begin the conversion process from a pregnancy care center to a pregnancy medical center and began raising the additional funds needed to do so during LifeWalk. 

“By making the conversion to a medical center we will have the ability to provide free ultrasounds,” said Hathaway. “We understand the important role ultrasounds play in a woman’s decision when faced with an unexpected pregnancy. Ultrasounds have proven to change minds and save lives as women see and hear their babies.”

The deal was that if they raised $25,000 towards Lifewalk and $25,000 towards an ultrasound machine by Sept. 1, she would get her long, lovely locks shorn. It almost didn’t happen.

“As of Saturday, August 29, we had only raised $1,000 towards our goal of $25,000 for Alpha’s 20/20 Vision for Life Ultrasound Project. I had it in my mind to extend the deadline to raise the $25,000 to October 1st to give us more time,” explained Hathaway. “But apparently God had His own plans and it didn’t require more time, just hearts willing to be obedient to His leading.” 

On Sunday, August 30, she received an anonymous donation of $9,900 and then the very next day a couple provided Alpha with a check for $25,000.

“The funds that Alpha has raised are to be used towards the preparation needed in the conversion to a medical center so we can provide ultrasound services to our clients. This includes training, legal requirements, additional staff, insurance, renovations and media cost in promoting the new service to the communities,” she explained.

But what about the actual machine? “We can now publicly announce that the Knights of Columbus Council 15889 is working with the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus to purchase an ultrasound machine for Alpha Family Center of Cedar Springs,” said Hathaway. She received a copy of a letter from Father Lam, of St. John’s Parish, that explains the endeavor to supporters.

“We are working with the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus so that Alpha Family Center in Cedar Springs, Michigan can purchase an ultrasound machine. It helps women choose life by giving them the opportunity to view their unborn children on the ultrasound machines at a pro-life pregnancy center. This is how it works in term of funding for the machines: after the local council raises 50 percent of the cost, the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council will provide the other 50 percent to complete funding for the purchase of an ultrasound machine.

“How can you help? People who respect life from the moment of conception to our natural death write checks to the Knights of Columbus Council 15889 and mail them to St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 17 Mile Rd, Cedar Springs Michigan 49319. We hope to reach 50 percent of the funding, which is approximately $25,000, on October 22. Please make sure that the check is made out to the council and not to the parish.

“My sincere hope is that with your assistance we will reach our goal on October 22. Why this date? It is the Feast of St. John Paul II, the patron Saint of council 15889 and the Catholic parish in Cedar Springs. During this year, we commemorate the 100th birthday of this saint who during his earthly life served the church and the world as Pope and wrote a beautiful encyclical letter, The Gospel of Life. This letter serves as a foundation for many movements and reflections on the sanctity of life. Let’s celebrate this Apostle for Life by helping our community in Cedar Springs obtain the ultrasound machine for the Alpha Center.”

Hathaway said they will also be looking for a Medical Director for the center. “We praise our Lord for providing these funds and we are trusting in Him to also provide us with a M.D./D.O to serve as our Medical Director,” she said. 

To donate, make checks out to: The Knights of Columbus Council 15889

Mail them to: St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 17 Mile Rd, Cedar Springs Michigan 49319.

From Alpha Family Center

Due to COVID-19 restrictions in place, Alpha Family Center is hosting a virtual LifeWalk this year. Although we will not be gathering together for this year’s fundraiser, there’s nothing saying we can’t still have fun while raising funds for Alpha.

Our theme for this year’s LifeWalk is “20/20 Vision for Life”. Hosting it virtually means those who participate will need to use social media, phone calls, and emails to connect with their family, friends and co-workers to request their pledge of support. The virtual events runs from April 27 through on Sept 1, each participant who collects $500 or more in donations and/or pledges will earn a chance to win this year’s Grand Prize (TBD). We will announce the winner of Grand Prize on Alpha’s Facebook page after September 1, 2020. 

Our goal this year is to raise over $20,000. Together we can make a difference for LIFE! 

Go to our website www.alphafamilycentercs.org to print off a pledge form. 

A prize will be awarded to whoever demonstrates the most fun while fundraising.

Some suggestions on how to make fundraising FUN!

• Challenge another individual, family or a church to see who can raise the most for Alpha. Include something fun that the losers have to do and share the photos with us. For example, get a pie in the face, color their hair a wild color, shave their head, or eat something extremely strange. Get creative and share the fun with us.
• Host your own private LifeWalk event; include some of the fun things you would normally see at a LifeWalk. Maybe dad dresses up like a clown, face painting, bake cookies, wear matching t-shirts, a balloons release, and remember a time of prayer.
• Decorate your bikes and have some family fun on your own LifeRide.
• Make up some creative signs showing support for LIFE and go for a walk around your neighborhood. Don’t forget to make it fun! 
• Hold your own LifeRun and award a medal to whoever wore the funniest running outfit.

Email us your photos of how you made this year’s virtual LifeWalk FUN! Email to: alphafamilycentercs@gmail.com. You may be the winner of a special prize!

When you contact your supporters let them know of all the giving options available this year

Giving options for Virtual LifeWalk 20/20

• Mail: Make checks payable to “Alpha Family Center” with your name and LifeWalk written on memo line of check. Mail to: Alpha Family Center P.O. Box 450 Cedar Springs, MI 49319
• Alpha’s website: www.alphafamilycentercs.org Event page and look for link for FundEasy and click on it to make a donation to LifeWalk 20/20.
• FundEasy: If you are collecting pledges you will need to first register and create your own personal FundEasy page for your family, friends and co-workers to donate to. Go to Alpha’s Facebook page. There will be a LifeWalk 20/20 Vision for Life! FundEasy post, click on that to register. Once you are registered then others can begin making donations to your page.
• Monthly Pledge (1 year commitment). For example if you usually donate $120 but want to make a $10 payment each month for one year you can. Simple make checks payable to “Alpha Family Center” with Monthly Pledge written on memo line of check. Mail to: Alpha Family Center P.O. Box 450 Cedar Springs, MI 49319
• Faith Pledge: pledge any amount and pay by Sept. 1, 2020. Make checks payable to “Alpha Family Center/LifeWalk 20/20” with Faith Pledge written on memo line of check. Mail to: Alpha Family Center P.O. Box 450 Cedar Springs, MI 49319 before Sept. 1, 2020

Mail your completed pledge forms with any checks you have into:

Alpha Family Center, 

P.O. Box 450

Cedar Springs, MI 49319

Alpha has decided to begin the conversion process from a pregnancy care center to a pregnancy medical center and had hoped to begin raising the additional funds needed to do so during LifeWalk. By making the conversion to a medical center we will have the ability to provide FREE ultrasounds. We understand the important role ultrasounds play in a woman’s decision when faced with an unexpected pregnancy. Ultrasounds have proven to change minds and save lives as women see and hear their babies. If anyone would like to make an additional contribution directly to our Ultrasound Fund “Vision for Life” we would greatly appreciate your support in this life saving effort.

Alpha’s Virtual LifeWalk “20/20 Vision for Life!” T-shirts are available to purchase this year. Prices are $10-$12 and all profits from the sale of T-shirts will go directly into the “Vision for Life” ultrasound fund. T-shirts may be purchased when you register as a participant through FundEasy or in person at Alpha. The final T-shirt order will be placed on September 8th. You will be notified when your T-shirts are available for pickup.

To register for this event or to download a pledge form, go to https://www.alphafamilycentercs.org/Events and scroll down the page for the links.

June 15

Alpha Family Center will host its annual LifeWalk/LifeRun/LifeRide events on Saturday, June 15, and the community is invited to come out to Morley Park, Cedar Springs for a celebration of Life

Alpha Family Center has been a part of the Cedar Springs community since 1992. They are a non-profit, faith-based pregnancy care center serving hundreds in the West Michigan area. This year marks their 24th Annual LifeWalk at 10:00 a.m., and the 6th running of their 5K LifeRun at 8:30 a.m. Back by popular demand is the LifeRide bicycle event at 7:30 a.m. Participants choose from either a 10, 20, 30, or 40 mile leisure ride along the White Pine Trail (Helmets required.) 

LifeRun and LifeRide participants are asked to collect a minimum of $50 in donations in lieu of a registration fee to participate. Participants will receive a free t-shirt (while supplies last). There will also be Kid’s FunRun at 9:15 and the Baby & Me LifeCrawl 11:30.

LifeWalk is a great time for families. They will be face painting, a balloon release, refreshments, prizes and the chance for everyone to help families in a real way.

To participate in LifeWalk 2019 or for more information, stop by Alpha on Mondays 11-5, Tuesdays 10-7 & Wednesdays 10-4 or visit their website www.alphafamilycentercs.org. 

Participants are able to set up a personal fundraising page to share with family and friends on social media from their website or Facebook page. For more details on how to do this, click on the events tab or call 696-2616.

“For people who are looking for a practical and fun way to put their life-affirming beliefs into action, LifeWalk is the perfect opportunity, “says Teresa Hathaway, Executive Director of Alpha Family Center.

Last year, they were able to offer help 2,263 times to families with over 10,034 free baby items given out. Their services include: free self-pregnancy test, peer mentoring, community agency referrals, maternity, baby and toddler clothing and care necessities. They also provide accurate information on abortion, adoption, and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as sexual abuse, miscarriage and post-abortion support.

Alpha Family Center is “your family resource for life” located at 6 N. First Street, Cedar Springs.

New this year was the baby & me Lifecrawl at Lifewalk. Courtesy photo.

Over 80 walkers participated in the two-mile walk through downtown Cedar Springs.
Courtesy photo.

Alpha Family Center held its 25^th annual fundraising event, Lifewalk, on Saturday June 16. 

“It was a great day to celebrate life,” said Executive Director Teresa Hathaway. “This year’s theme was ‘Celebrating 25 years for Life!’ which relays the message we have been faithful in serving individuals and families with the issue of life,” she explained. 

The day began at 7:30 a.m. with their first LifeRide, a cycling event. They had 5 participants travel the White Pine Trail on either 10, 20, 30 or 40 miles ride, and had 9 runners taking part in Alpha’s 5K LifeRun. 

LifeWalk began with a welcome, instructions about the walk, and an opening prayer. They had 81 walkers follow behind the LifeWalk banner for the 2-mile walk down through the heart of Cedar Springs, stopping at key points to pray for community leaders, churches, schools and Alpha Family Center. 

“This year the walk once again included a prayer stop at Metron Senior Citizen Center to help emphasize life is precious at all stages,” said Hathaway.  

The walkers returned to the park to either participant in or watch our first Baby & Me LifeCrawl. This was a fun event for parents and infants. They had 4 teams join in the fun. This year a box lunch and cake was provided to those in attendance. There was also face painting and a clown for the children, and a Kid’s FunRun.

One difference in LifeWalk this year was that they had an online option available for those raising funds to use with their social media accounts. “We raised over $20,000!” remarked Hathaway. “LifeWalk covers a large portion of Alpha’s operating expenses as we assist over 100 families per year, and give away over 8,000 baby and maternity items per year.”  

Alpha also offers free pregnancy self-testing, parenting classes, support for abuse, miscarriage, post-abortion and sexual integrity classes. New this summer Alpha is partnering with Positive Options Mobile Medical Center in providing free ultrasounds to clients.

Hathaway presented the awards for top walkers. Lifewalk ended with a closing prayer and the sky filled with colorful balloons that were released in memory of the over 56,000,000 babies that have been aborted since abortion became legal in 1973.  

Alpha wishes to offer a special “Thank you” to the local communities for their ongoing support of Alpha throughout the years. See ad on page 5.

By Judy Reed

For the first time in 22 years, Alpha Family Center of Cedar Springs had to cancel their LifeWalk, scheduled for June 17, due to inclement weather. But that didn’t stop the team from holding the event that is their biggest fundraiser.

“Thanks to Alpha Family Center’s Board President Sharline Winell’s quick thinking and the help of 18 volunteers we were able to host our first ever LifeWalk open house at Alpha from 9-11 a.m.,” said Executive Director Teresa Hathaway.

“Although our overall numbers were down from last year, we were pleased with the over 100 people who came out in support of Alpha. This was a great opportunity for people to visit the center for themselves to see how their efforts are used to serve families in Northern Kent County.”

Hathaway said they were also appreciated the opportunity to share future remodeling plans for reception area.

LifeWalk brought in just under $15,000 in pledges, which is short of the $20,000 goal. “We still anticipate the final number to go up as pledges continue to come in from those who didn’t venture out in the rain on Saturday,” explained Hathaway.

Alpha Family Center was established in Cedar Springs in 1992 as Alpha Women’s Center, one of several satellite centers of the main one in Grand Rapids. In 2006, they became independent and the name was changed to Alpha Family Center. They offer free and confidential self-pregnancy testing and counseling; important information on healthy relationships, dating, STDs, and self-esteem; abortion alternative counseling; referrals for adoption, medical, and housing; miscarriage and post-abortion support; material assistance; and more.

Alpha Family Center is located at 6 N. First Street in Cedar Springs, and they are open Monday through Wednesday. Please call 696-2616 or visit their website at www.alphafamilycentercs.org for more information.

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.

Alpha Family Center LifeWalk

June 17: Alpha Family Center will hold its 22^nd Annual LifeWalk – Humanity 101 on Saturday, June 17^th at 10 am Morley Park in Cedar Springs. There will also be a 5K LifeRun at 8:30 am, registration at 7:30 am and a Kids FunRun (ages 5-11) at 9:15 am, LifeWalk at 10 am, registration at 9 am. For more information and pledge forms visit AFC website: alphafamilycentercs.org. #22-24b

Dinner at the Legion

June 19: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Swiss Steak dinner on Monday, June 19^th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes, baked beans, veggies, salad, roll, dessert and drink. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160.  #24p

Cedar Springs Youth Football SIGN-UPS

June 20: Flag: 4-7years olds, Rocket: 3rd-6^th grades, and  Middle: 7th-8^th grades. Burger King: 6/20: 6pm-8pm. Skinner Field: Tues & Thurs 7/11-7/27 5:30pm-7:30pm. Contact: April Victorson (616)890-5869 csyflsecretary@gmail.com. #19-26b

Michigan Blood Drive

June 20: Michigan Blood Drive on June 20th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church from 12:30 pm until 7:00 pm. Anyone attempting to donate will receive a Cedar Springs Brewing coupon. We would like to thank the local business for supporting our blood drives. The need for blood is high during the summer with people on vacation. Each donation has the potential to save 3 Michigan lives. The Blood Center thanks all the people that donate at the Cedar Springs blood drive. #24

Introduction to Papermaking

June 22: Transform junk mail into decorative sheets of paper in this hands-on program for adults. Thursday, June 22^nd at 6 pm at Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. #24

Blessing of the Bicycles

June 24: Event to be held on Saturday, June 24^th from 1-3 pm at The Springs Church parking lot, corner of Oak and First St. Several used Bikes have been graciously donated this year and will be available for those that may not have a bike, while supplies last. We will also have minor bike repairs in site and many fun things for the kids to do. The Blessing will be given at 2:30 pm by Pastor Greig followed by a New Bike give away. Blessing is open to Riders of all ages. Hope to see you there! #24,25p

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.

Explore MCC’s Kenneth J. Lehman Nature Trails

Montcalm Community College’s Kenneth J. Lehman Nature Trails are open to the public from dawn until dusk, 365 days a year. There is no charge to visit these beautiful trails winding through forests, grasslands and wetlands. More than four miles of trails are marked with numbered trail posts and maps are available at most major trail heads. For more information, please email naturetrails@moncalm.edu or call MCC Biology Instructor Heather Wesp 989-328-1270. #22

Red Flannel Queen Pageant Time

June 3: Attention all young ladies living in or attending school in the Cedar Springs School Public School District who will be in the 11th grade in the 2017-2018 school year (including homeschooled, or private school attendees that live within the Cedar Springs Public School District boundaries): There will be a mandatory meeting for any young lady who would like to participate in the 2017 Red Flannel Pageant and her parent (at least one). The meeting will be Saturday, June 3^rd at 10 am at the Springs Church (135 N. Grant St, Cedar Springs, Michigan). There will be a makeup meeting for anyone not able to attend the first meeting on Sunday, June 4^th at 2 pm at the Springs Church. Informational packets can be picked up before the meetings in the main offices at Cedar Springs High School and Creative Technologies Academy starting Tuesday May 16th. For more information, contact pageant director Kaleigh Goehler at redflannelpageant@gmail.com. #20-22b

Dinner at the Legion

June 5: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Pork Chop dinner on Monday,   June 5^th from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be pork chops, mashed potatoes & gravy, stuffing,  salad, roll, dessert  and drink. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160.  #22p

Cedar Springs Youth Football SIGN-UPS

June 6: Flag: 4-7years olds / Rocket: 3rd-6^th grades / Middle: 7th-8^th grades. Burger King: 6/10, 6/20: 6pm-8pm. Shaner Ball Field: 6/06, 6/14 6pm-8pm. Skinner Field: Tues & Thurs 7/11-7/27 5:30pm-7:30pm. Contact: April Victorson (616)890-5869 csyflsecretary@gmail.com. #19-26b

Sand Lake High School Alumni Banquet

June 10: The 125^th Annual (1892-2017) Sand Lake High School Alumni Banquet will be held on Saturday, June 10^th at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Social Hour at 5 pm with Dinner at 6 pm. Cost of meal is $12.00. Open to anyone who attended Sand Lake Schools. Please RSVP by June 3^rd. Call your reservation to one of the following committee members; Dave Groner 616-557-3098, Dick Pierce 616-636-5258, Betty Bradford Clegg 517-487-3003, Verna White Smigiel 616-885-4913. #21,22p

Flag Day Ceremony

June 10: Gleaner Grand Arbor would like to invite the Sand Lake/Cedar Springs area to a Flag Day Ceremony at the Sand Lake Library in Sand Lake on June 10th at 10 am. Refreshments to follow after the ceremony. #22,23p

Vacation Bible School @ Solon Center Wesleyan Church

June 11th-15th: Hey kids!  You are uniquely wired and wonderfully made! Learn why & how at Gadgets & Gizmos Vacation Bible School, which begins on Sunday, June 11th @  6:30-8 PM, with a “Family Night” where the whole family can join the fun. VBS continues Monday thru Thursday for kids ages 4 years-5^th grade. Pre-registration is encouraged by filling out an online form @ www.scwchurch.org. The church is located @ 15671 Algoma Ave., Cedar Springs, just north of 19 Mile Road. For more info about Gadgets & Gizmos, please contact the church office @ 616-696-3229. #21-23b

Alpha Family Center LifeWalk

June 17: Alpha Family Center will hold its 22^nd Annual LifeWalk – Humanity 101 on Saturday, June 17^th at 10 am Morley Park in Cedar Springs. There will also be a 5K LifeRun at 8:30 am, registration at 7:30 am and a Kids FunRun (ages 5-11) at 9:15 am, LifeWalk at 10 am, registration at 9 am. For more information and pledge forms visit AFC website: alphafamilycentercs.org. #22-24b

LifeRun top runners

Alpha Family Center raises $18,000 towards expenses

Walkers and runners hit the pavement on Saturday, June 18, to help support Alpha Family Center, in their annual LifeWalk event.

“It was a great day to celebrate life,” said Executive Director Teresa Hathaway.

“This year’s theme was ‘I’m a prayer warrior for Life,’ which relays the message that we find power through prayer as we walk for the unborn babies.”

The day began with 18 runners taking part in Alpha’s 3^rd annual LifeRun. The Springs Youth Pastor Chris Anton awarded the trophies and medals to the top runners. LifeWalk began with a welcome, instructions about the walk, and an opening prayer. A crowd of over 174 walkers followed behind the LifeWalk banner for the two-mile walk through downtown Cedar Springs, stopping at key points to pray for our community leaders, churches, schools and Alpha Family Center. This year the walk once again included a prayer stop at Metron Senior Citizen Center to help emphasize life is precious at all stages. The walkers returned to the park for a time of refreshments and door prizes, as well as awarding prizes to this year’s winners of our coloring contest, and the top walkers.

A report was also given on the total amount raised this year, which was over $18,000. LifeWalk covers a major portion of Alpha’s operating expenses as they assist over 150 families per year, and give away over 11,000 baby and maternity items per year. Alpha also offers free pregnancy self-testing, parenting classes, and support for abuse, miscarriages, and post-abortion and sexual integrity classes. Alpha also hopes to begin a men’s group this fall to help equip and encourage men to actively engage with their families.

LifeWalk ended with a closing prayer and the sky filled with colorful balloons that were released in memory of the over 58,000,000 babies that have been aborted since abortion became legal in 1973.

Alpha offers a special thank you to the local communities for their ongoing support of Alpha over the years.

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.

16^th Annual Memorial Cemetery Walk

May 29: The Cedar Springs Historical Society is holding its 16^th annual Memorial Cemetery walk on Sunday, May 29^th at 2 pm to honor veterans of all wars. This years’ veterans will be Ebenezer Jewell, War of 1812; John Roys, Mexican War; Myron Fogleson, Civil War; Joe Osborne, Spanish-American War; Franklin Sheldon, World War I; Kenneth Winters, World War II; Rex Morris, Korean War; Timothy Towns, Vietnam War. Biographical and historical information will be presented at each gravesite. The Glen Hill Post of the American Legion honor guard will assist at the presentation. We will leave from the museum in Morley Park at 1:30 pm and return there for refreshments. In case of severe weather warnings we will cancel the event. In case of rain we will do the presentations in the museum. #20,21p

DIY Spa for Teens

June 4,13: Make a variety of spa products from simple ingredients that you can take home, such as sugar and oatmeal scrubs, fizzy bath bombs and silky body lotion. Pre-registration is required for teens grades 6-12. Call 877-243-2466 to pre-register. Saturday, June 4^th at 11 am at the Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. Monday, June 13^th at 1:30 pm at the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St.  #21

Fresh Food Fairy

June 7: Meet this Fresh Food Fairy and her amazing smoothie bike! She’ll help you whip up a tasty treat and teach you all about healthy eating. The first 75 kids will receive a treat bag. For ages 6 and older. Tuesday, June 7^th at 6 pm at Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. #21

Help Promote Literacy

June 9: The need is urgent at this time! The Literacy Center of West Michigan has scheduled and information session on Thursday, June 9^th, for prospective volunteer tutors. This session is held at 6 pm and lasts one hour. It allows persons interested 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. By training people to be tutors, the Center can offer one-on-one reading help to adults asking for assistance in reading or English as a Second Language (ESL). You do not need to speak another language to tutor ESL. The Center is located at 1120 Monroe Ave., NW, Suite 240, Grand Rapids. Please call 616-459-5151 (ext. 10) or email us at info@literacycenterwm.org to register. #21

Nazareth Vacation Bible School at Solon Center Wesleyan Church

June 12: Hey kids! Come for VBS beginning Sunday evening, June 12th from 6:30 – 8 pm. It’s family Night, so bring the whole family to enjoy the fun of the Double KK Petting zoo (weather permitting) and a hot dog roast. VBS continues through Thursday where you’ll make new friends, sing great songs, play fun games, experience Nazareth…where Jesus was a Kid and visit the market places of His home town. Monday through Thursday VBS is for children 4 years old through the 5th grade. Please pre-register by calling the church office @ 696-3229 or online at http://scwchurch.com/#/get-connected/vbs-registration. The church is located at 15671 Algoma Avenue, just north of 19 Mile Road. Come join the fun! #21-23p

Alpha Family Center Annual LifeWalk

June 18: Cedar Springs Alpha Family Center will host its annual LifeWalk Events on Saturday, June 18^th at Morley Park in Cedar Street. 5K LifeRun at 8:30 am, Kid’s FunRun at 9:15 am and LifeWalk at 10:00 am, and Baby Bottle Blessing change drive now thru June 19^th. LifeWalk is a great time for families which includes a coloring contest for ages 3-10 (deadline to enter is June 1^st ), a clown, face painting, balloons, refreshments, door prizes and the chance for everyone to help local families in a very real way. To participate in LifeWalk 2016 pick up your pledge form, a baby bottle for the change drive and an entry form for the coloring contest by stopping into Alpha on Mondays 11 to 5 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 – 4 pm. For more information you may call 616-696-2616. #20,21p

Summer Solstice Run with the Sun 3k

June 21: Celebrate the longest day of the year with a Cross Country 3k at Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16160 Red Pine Dr., Kent City. Tuesday, June 21^st at 7 pm for registration. Water and post run refreshments provided. All runners receive a T-Shirt and entry into prize drawings. Medals and prizes for top 3 in each of 4 categories. Pre-register by June 14^th. Cost: $15, members $10. Registration received June 14^th to race day $20. www.HowardChristensen.org, 616-675-3158. #21

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.

Praise the Lord at Cowboy Church

May 22: 2nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church on Sunday, May 22nd at 6 pm. It will be at 2nd Chance School at 810 – 17 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs (corner of 17 Mile and Olin Lakes Rd). The message will be shared by Harvey and Patti Becker, who will be sharing their music with us. Invite your family and friends. Cowboy Church will be every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Each service will have different people sharing God’s word and music. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #20

Senior Lunch at Pine Grove Community Church

May 25: Pine Grove Senior Café would be honored for all Seniors age 60 and over to come celebrate our Veterans both those who are still here with us, those who have given the utmost and those who live on in our memory.  We would also be honored to serve a meal of Salisbury steak, a Veggie and bread topped off with Orangesicle cookie bars for desert.  Lunch will be served Wednesday May 25th at Noon in our Family Life Center on the northwest corner of M-82 & Beech. #20

16th Annual Memorial Cemetery Walk

May 29: The Cedar Springs Historical Society is holding its 16th annual Memorial Cemetery walk on Sunday, May 29th at 2 pm to honor veterans of all wars. This years’ veterans will be Ebenezer Jewell, War of 1812; John Roys, Mexican War; Myron Fogleson, Civil War; Joe Osborne, Spanish-American War; Franklin Sheldon, World War I; Kenneth Winters, World War II; Rex Morris, Korean War; Timothy Towns, Vietnam War. Biographical and historical information will be presented at each gravesite. The Glen Hill Post of the American Legion honor guard will assist at the presentation. We will leave from the museum in Morley Park at 1:30 pm and return there for refreshments. In case of severe weather warnings we will cancel the event. In case of rain we will do the presentations in the museum. #20,21p

HCNC Summer Camps

June 14: Beginning June 14th Howard Christensen Nature Center will be holding summer camps. Capture the Flag Camp – June 14-16, Animal Adaptations I – June 20-24, Nature Artists – June 27-30, Team Building I – July 11-15, Jr. Backpacking – July 19-20 (overnight), Archery Camp – July 26-28, Survival Camp I – July 28-29 (overnight), Team Building II – August 1-5, Animal Adaptations II – August 8-12, Survival Camp II – August 18-19 (overnight). Visit the website for more information, www.HowardChristensen.org. The nature center is located at 16160 Red Pine Dr., Kent City. 616-675-3158. #20

Alpha Family Center Annual LifeWalk

June 18: Cedar Springs Alpha Family Center will host its annual LifeWalk Events on Saturday, June 18th at Morley Park in Cedar Street. 5K LifeRun at 8:30 am, Kid’s FunRun at 9:15 am and LifeWalk at 10:00 am, and Baby Bottle Blessing change drive now thru June 19th. LifeWalk is a great time for families which includes a coloring contest for ages 3-10 (deadline to enter is June 1st ), a clown, face painting, balloons, refreshments, door prizes and the chance for everyone to help local families in a very real way. To participate in LifeWalk 2016 pick up your pledge form, a baby bottle for the change drive and an entry form for the coloring contest by stopping into Alpha on Mondays 11 to 5 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 – 4 pm. For more information you may call 616-696-2616. #20,21p

HCNC Cooking With The Stars

June 25: Howard Christensen Nature Center is seeking 8 students to compete with local celebrity chefs in this “Cutthroat Camp” “Chopped” style competition. To apply contact the office, 616-675-3158. Spectators welcome $10 tickets.  #20

Last Saturday, June 20, was a great day to celebrate life, as Alpha Family Center held its yearly fundraising event, LifeWalk.

“Everyone who walked received a “Walk in Love” T-shirt that relays the message that we care about the unborn babies we are walking for,” said Lorrie Shelton, former Executive Director.

The day began with 18 runners taking part in Alpha’s second annual 5 K LifeRun. Chris Anton, youth pastor at The Springs Church, awarded the trophies and medals to top runners. LifeWalk began with a welcome, instructions about the walk, and an opening prayer. A crowd of over 174 walkers followed behind the Lifewalk banner for the 2 mile walk down through the heart of Cedar Springs, stopping at key points to pray for our community leaders, churches, schools and Alpha Family Center. This year the walk route included a prayer stop at Metron Senior Citizen Center that emphasizes life as precious at all stages.

The walkers returned to the park for a time of refreshment, door prizes, face painting, a clown for kids, and a report that included the total amount raised this year, which was over $13,000. LifeWalk covers a huge portion of Alpha’s operating expenses as they assist over 100 families per month, and give away over 18,000 baby and maternity items per year.  Alpha also offers free pregnancy self-testing, parenting classes, support for abuse, miscarriage, post-abortion and sexual integrity classes.

Teresa Hathaway, LifeWalk Coordinator and new interim Executive Director presented the awards for top walker and coloring contest winners.  Lorrie Shelton was honored as she retires from Alpha after twenty plus years of service. “I have enjoyed being a part of this amazing pro-life ministry and thank the community for all the support throughout the years,” she said.

LifeWalk ended with a closing prayer and the sky filled with colorful balloons that were released in memory of the 54,000,000 babies that have been aborted since abortion became legal in 1973.

A stream of lime green T-shirts wove its way down through the heart of Cedar Springs on Saturday, June 14. Alpha Family Center held its first 5K LifeRun early with 12 runners participating, and 14 children taking part in the FunRun around the Skinner Field track. Then 180 walkers came out at 10 a.m. to celebrate Alpha’s 18^th Lifewalk!

Chris Anton, youth Pastor at The Springs Church, opened the fundraising event with a hearty welcome to everyone for taking time out to support life and to help this worthy cause. He gave the walk instructions, which included stopping at key places to pray for our area churches, schools, city hall, the police station and Alpha Family Center. He reminded everyone to return to Morley Park for a short time of fellowship and heart-felt prayer for the unborn.

The walkers returned to the park for a time of refreshment, door prizes, face painting, a clown, and a report that included the total amount raised this year, which was $11,300.

Lifewalk makes up a huge portion of Alpha’s operating expenses each year. Alpha helps over 100 families per month, and gives away 14,000 baby and maternity items per year. They also offer free pregnancy self-testing, parenting classes and support for abuse, miscarriage, post-abortion and sexual integrity classes.

Kim Ferguson shared her experience as a new peer counselor and the rewards she receives being a part of an organization making a difference in our community.

Jenn Anton, Alpha’s new Lifewalk Coordinator, shared the good news about abortions being down in the state of Michigan. Her closing prayer was for protection of unborn babies as colorful balloons filled the sky in memory of the 54,000 babies that have been aborted since abortion became legal in 1973.

If you didn’t get a chance to donate, you can contact Alpha Family Center at 616 696-2616, or donate at their website:  www.alphafamilycentercs.org.