David N. Walls, 84, of Trout Creek, passed away early Friday morning, May 11, 2018. Dave was born on Nov. 19, 1933, in Trout Creek, a son of Wilbert and Taimi (Moilanen) Walls. He graduated from Trout Creek High School in 1952 and married his high school sweetheart, Patsy Pittsley. In 1953, they moved to Grand Rapids, where Dave worked in the factories until 1963 when he became an insurance inspector. Dave was promoted to office manager for Commercial Services. At that time the family moved to Cedar Springs. In 1978, Dave started his own insurance inspection company with his partner, Art Clement. They operated the company until 2002 when they sold the company and retired. In 2002, Dave and Patsy returned to Trout Creek where Dave was always fishing on the Beaver in his canoe. When fishing season was over, it was time for hunting with his brother, Kenny, Uncle Gene and son, Dave and anyone else that wanted to go along. Dave was always so proud that he was the catcher for the Trout Creek American Legion Baseball Team. At the age of 15, he was the catcher for Ben Manning (Dave’s idol). Dave was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions and all Michigan State and Ewen-Trout Creek sports. Dave is survived by his loving wife, Patsy, Trout Creek; a son, David Jr. (Katie), Cedar Springs; two sisters, Marion Walls, San Antonio, Texas, and Lois Couper, Ft. Myers, Florida; a brother, Dennis, Milwaukee; a grandson, Aaron (Sheryl) Rohen; three great-grandsons, Aaron Wayne (Samantha), Ryan and David; a great-great-granddaughter, Melina Kay; two sisters-in-law, Diana Thompson, Inez, Kentucky, and Pam Walls, Livonia; his son-in-law, Doug Setters, Sheridan, Indiana; two aunts, Shirley Madden and Elma Hirvonen; special friends, Jim and Jean Ward, Cedar Springs; and many dear nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Wayne; a daughter, Darlene; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Art and Evelyn Pittsley; two brothers, Wilbert “Sonny” and Kenneth; a sister, Carol Verran; a grandson, Travis Setters; and two nieces, Teresa Wilder and Tiffney Walls. A memorial service will be held Friday, May 18, at 1 p.m. EDT, preceded by visitation at noon EDT, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Trout Creek, with the Rev. Kay Richter officiating. Luncheon will be served at the American Legion Hall in Trout Creek following the service. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. 

Ann Fournier spends her hour-long commute piecing together tiny petals of red crepe paper to assemble poppies to support veterans.

(BPT) – For many Americans, it starts with wearing the poppy on National Poppy Day, an annual tribute to the price of freedom. This year, National Poppy Day is May 25.

For Ann Fournier, it starts with a train ride. She has taken the same train at 5 a.m. and 4:50 p.m. daily for 30 years. She spends her hour-long commutes piecing together tiny petals of red crepe paper to assemble poppies to support veterans.

Fournier’s work has made her a symbol on the train. Known as the “Poppy Lady,” she has created 100,000 poppies each year over several decades. Her commitment began as a tribute to her brothers, who served during Vietnam, but has continued as a way to honor each veteran and civilian she has met on her ride to the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) state headquarters in Boston.

“The conductor saves a seat with a table for me every day,” says Fournier, who serves as ALA Department of Massachusetts secretary/executive director. “He’s a veteran as well. Sometimes he sits with me to help. Sometimes strangers ask me what I’m doing. But the best moments happen when a veteran sits down or thanks me. I don’t do it for the thanks; I do it because I can, and these little red flowers are a way to help those in need. Our veterans don’t get enough of anything.”

The red poppy holds great meaning for veterans all over the world. After the battles of World War I, the blood-red poppy flourished in France and Belgium when battlefields became burial grounds. The red flowers suddenly bloomed among the newly dug gravesites of fallen service members, turning the new graveyards into fields of red. Today, the poppy is a symbol of sacrifices made from WWI to today’s war on terror.

Millions of people worldwide wear the red poppy as a call to honor living veterans and those who lost their lives. The tradition can be traced back to 1918 when Moina Michael popularized the idea of wearing a poppy flower in memory of the military lives lost in WWI. She drew inspiration from the poem In Flanders Fields, written by WWI Col. John McCrae as he gazed at the rows and rows of graves where his comrades had been recently buried. In the decades that followed, poppies have been worn, displayed and distributed for fundraising efforts for veterans service organizations around the world.

The American Legion Family is the driving force behind the now trademarked National Poppy Day because of its support for veterans and long-standing connection to the poppy flower. In the early 1920s, the Legion Family adopted the poppy as its official memorial flower to pay homage to the battlefields of WWI. Now, it is the Family’s mission to support the military community by promoting the significance of the flower and the meaning behind it.

Members and volunteers connected to the ALA, one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of veterans’ rights, leverage the poppy in service to the veteran community through Poppy Day distributions and outreach. ALA volunteers hand out red paper or fabric poppies in exchange for donations that go directly to support veterans. Many of those poppies are made by hospitalized and disabled veterans as a form of rehabilitation and a source of income through this ALA program. In 2017, ALA members throughout the U.S. distributed nearly 6 million poppies or poppy items and raised $3.9 million in donations that went directly to help veterans, military and their families.

“This flower is personal to me,” says Fournier. “Because of it, I’ve been able to share stories about our veterans and the ALA’s work. I’ve also been able to explain that helping a veteran can be as simple as donating money in exchange for a poppy or as committed as making 100,000 poppies each year. It’s about what you can do to help.”

Donning a poppy this National Poppy Day and every day is one simple way to show gratitude for a community that has given its lives to protect ours. To learn more, visit www.poppydayusa.org.

Lou D. “Trooper” Grayvold, age 75 of Sparta died Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Spectrum Health – Butterworth Campus. Lou was born October 22, 1942 in Suttons Bay, Michigan the son of Martin and Florence (Nyberg) Grayvold. He retired as a supervisor from General Motors Fisher Body. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, hunting and fishing and all the friends he did those activities with. He was a member of the American Legion Post #247 in Comstock Park. Surviving are his wife, Sally (Grannis) whom he married on June 18, 1966; brother, Max Grayvold; sister, Sonya Dearry; sister-in-law, Gloria Holmes; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and 1 great-grand niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Sherman and Gary Grayvold. The funeral was Monday, January 29, 2018 at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. Private family interment East Nelson Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cedar Springs Historical Society or the donor’s choice.

Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home

Mary Goller-Kilts age 85 of Cedar Springs, died Friday, January 12, 2018. Mary was born April 4, 1932 in Grand Rapids, Michigan the daughter of Mathew and Sophia (Kalinski) Berger. Mary was orphaned at age 12 and resided at St. John orphanage until going to Villa Maria where she got her cosmetology license. She worked in the dry cleaning industry and retired as a manager in 2006. Mary never really retired and kept busy cooking, baking, birthday dinners, holiday dinners and being the chairwoman for the dinner and funeral luncheons at the Cedar Springs American Legion. She was a member of the American Legion Post #287 for 42 years and served as President in 2001-02, Dept. of Michigan Chapau from 2000-01, Auxiliary Chaplain, Membership Chairman, 8&40 Secretary. She was a member of Mary Queen of Apostles since 1951 and the Woman’s Guild. She loved playing bingo and was an avid Tigers fan. Mary was the Red Flannel Day Grand Marshall in 2013. Surviving are her children, Addie (Mike) Davison, Alan Goller; grandchildren, Casey (Megan) Morris, Carlie (Greg Glass) Morris, Amanda (Matt) Crampton; great-grandchildren, Desirae, Gage and Aiden; son-in-law, Greg Morris; stepchildren, Sherri Woodard, Mike Kilts; step grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Oscar Goller in 1996, Don Kilts in 2007; sister, Barbara (Ed) Carter; in-laws, John (Peggy) Goller, Dick (Betty) Goller, Emma (Bob) Gebhardt. The family received friends Wednesday, January 17 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, January 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Mary Queen of Apostles, Sand Lake. Rev. Fr. Lam Le presiding. Interment Courtland Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cedar Springs American Legion Post #287 Woman’s Auxiliary.

Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs

The Sons of the American Legion Commander Dominic Merlington

American Legion Commander for the State of Michigan is Brett Holt

The American Legion Post #287 in Cedar Springs is proud to welcome their State Commanders and Presidents to our Post home for the annual Early Bird Dinner. The dinner is held the first week in January to show our appreciation to the members of our Post, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion who have paid their dues by Veterans Day of the previous fall. It is our tradition to invite the leaders of our State to attend this event. In the past this dinner was held to give them red flannels to keep them warm on their Upper Peninsula trip that usually follows right after our dinner. 

This year the American Legion Commander for the State of Michigan is Brett Holt. Brett is from Post #439 in Saginaw, having served in the Navy during the Lebanon/Grenada era. He has been on many committees and held most positions at the Post, District,State and National level. His special project this year is Michigan American Legion Foundation. His theme is MEMO-Communicate to Succeed. 

American Legion Auxiliary President for 2017-2018 is Deanna Cortright

Honorary Junior President is Emma Damouth

The American Legion Auxiliary President for 2017-2018 is Deanna Cortright. She is a member of the Auxiliary Unit #52 in Coldwater. She is a 35-year member, eligible through the service of her father who served in both Korea and Vietnam. She has held all offices and many chairmanships on her way to the office of President. Her special project is Project Boits on the Ground. Her theme is “Dolls and Bears Together for our Veterans.”  

The Sons of the American Legion Commander is from our own Post. The Legion family is proud to have Dominic Merlington representing us as State Detachment Commander. He has been a member of Squadron #287 for over 30 years, joining under the service of his grandfather, Robert Merlington. He is following in the footsteps of his father, Ronny Merlington who served as Detachment Commander in 1986/87. He and his family live in Cedar Springs. His special project is Fisher House Foundation, which provides temporary accommodations for veterans and military personnel and their families while the veteran is receiving medical attention at a VA medical center. His theme is “Sons Will.” 

Our honorary Junior President is Emma Damouth. She is a sophomore at Niles High School. Her favorite subject is art. She also loves music. Her special project is Walking Across Michigan-Keeping our Veterans Warm. She is collecting blankets to give to homeless veterans. Her theme is “Lion King.” 

All of our State officials will be at the dinner to speak about their projects. They will be treated to a warm red flannel welcome and even join in our annual “chicken dance.” The dinner will be held Saturday night at Post #287 at 80 S. Main St., Cedar Springs.    

Looking for some holiday cheer? You don’t want to miss the “Mingle with Kris Kringle” event this Saturday, December 2, put on by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. 

The day-long event starts with make and take crafts and ornaments at the Cedar Springs Community Library at 107 N. Main St from 9-noon. You can also enjoy a story time with Mrs. Claus from 2-3 p.m. at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more at 90 N. Main St. There will also be a meet and greet and photos with the Cedar Springs cheerleaders, a petting zoo, bake sale, and caroling from the Cedar Springs High School choir, all before the mini-parade that brings Santa to the corner of Main and Ash Street at about 4:30-4:45.

Following the parade will be a live nativity scene by Calvary Assembly of God and mingling with Kris Kringle at the American Legion Hall, where kids can get their photo taken, and do an activity while they wait. 

The fun then continues next weekend with the Kent Theatre Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 9 from 3-5 p.m., and the Kent Theatre Christmas Dance Extravaganza on Sunday, December 10, from 3-5 p.m. Admission is $3 for each show. For more info on both weekends of fun, see ad on page 10.

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.

American Legion Holiday Bazaar

Nov. 4: The American Legion Auxiliary is having their annual Holiday Bazaar on November 4^th from 9 am to 3 pm at the Cedar Springs Legion, 80 S. Main Street in Cedar Springs. Along with garage sale items and arts and crafts, we will also have a bake sale. #44

Sand Lake Lions Club Variety Sale

Nov. 4: The Sand Lake Lions Club will host a Variety Sale on Saturday, November 4^th from 9 am – 3 pm at the Sand Lake United Methodist Church ED building. Located on the corner of 6^th and Maple Streets. Antiques/Vintage collectibles and crafts, quality used clothing, miscellaneous items. #44

Dinner at the Legion

Nov. 6: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Pork Chop dinner on Monday, November 6^th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes & gravy, veggies, 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.  #44p

TOPS weight loss support group

Nov. 7: Need help getting through the holiday season? 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 weigh loss goals! Weigh-ins 8:15-9am, 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. #44

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

Nov. 7,14,21,28: Join us for dinner every Tuesday. God’s Kitchen – Cedar Springs welcomes families from Northern Kent County and the surrounding area to a Tuesday Evening Meal. No charge – no registration required!  Served from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at the St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. For more information, call the Church office at 616-696-3904. #44

Help Promote Literacy

Nov. 8,17,21: The need is urgent at this time! The Literacy Center of West Michigan has scheduled  information sessions for prospective volunteer tutors. These sessions last one hour. It allows persons interested in becoming volunteer tutors to find out more about the Literacy Center and its programs. At the end of the session there will be a chance to sign up for tutor training. Sessions are Wednesday, November 8^th at 6 pm, Friday, November 17^th at 10 am and Tuesday, November 21^st at 2 pm. 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 Literacy Center of West Michigan 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. #44

Voters Not Politicians Educational Town Hall

Nov. 9: Voters Not Politicians Town Hall with an educational presentation to explain what is gerrymandering and the Voters Not Politicians proposal to end it plus an opportunity for registered voters to sign the petition to get the proposal on the ballot. The event will be held on November 9^th from 6 to 7 pm at the Cedar Springs Public Library, 107 Main St., Cedar Springs. Hosted by Voters Not Politicians, a non-partisan ballot committee seeking to put before voters a proposal to end gerrymandering in Michigan. The proposal would ask voters to amend the Michigan State Constitution to deny partisan politicians the ability to manipulate voting district boundaries to secure their own hold on power. It would instead give the authority for drawing those boundaries to an Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. This event will help educate and gather signatures to support the petition drive to gather nearly 316,000 valid signatures needed to put the anti-gerrymander proposal on the 2018 ballot. #44

Library Book Sale

Nov. 9-11: The Friends of the Nelson Twp./Sand Lake Library is hosting a book sale on Thursday, November 9 and Friday, November 10^th from 10 to 6 pm and on Saturday, November 11^th from 10 am to 2 pm at the Resurrection Lutheran Church, 180 Northland Drive in Sand Lake. #44,45p

Solon Center Wesleyan Church Holiday Bazaar

Nov. 11:Do your Christmas shopping! Saturday, November 11th from 9 am–2 pm, delicious fresh baked goods, 100’s of hand crafted items, jewelry, and many other vendors. There’s definitely something for everyone! Rolls & coffee and a lunch counter are also available. The church is located @ 15671 Algoma Avenue, just north of 19 Mile Road. Come early, stay late! #43,44p

Cookie Walk at Holy Spirit Episcopal

Nov. 11: Holy Spirit Episcopal Church is holding its annual Cookie Walk and Christmas Delites sale on Saturday, November 11^th from 9 am to 3 pm. The church is located at 1200 Post Drive NE in Belmont (corner of Post and Pine Island drives, just off Exit 95 of US 131). Featuring our “world-famous” Cookie Walk – Come early for the best selection. There will also be baked goods, crafts, Santa’s Attic and a silent auction. The Christmas Delites sale is sponsored by the Holy Spirit’s Episcopal Women group and funds their support for various church activities, such as kitchen supplies, funeral refreshments, the Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, the Explore & Soar Reading Club, and more. More information can be found on the church’s website: www.holyspiritbelmont.org. #44

Free Veterans Event in Sparta

Nov. 11: Join in the Sparta Community Celebration to Honor our Veterans! On November 11^th at the Sparta High School Auditorium, there will be a documentary film “The Unknowns” about the unique perspective to the rigorous and intricate training of the Sentinel Training Program soldiers must endure to be assigned duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Sparta’s Specialist 3^rd Class Don Bradford will narrate and share his story as Sparta’s only guard to have served at the Tomb. The event is at 2 to 4:30 pm (doors open at 1pm). The event is free. Present will also be Sparta’s Robert Shangle, LiveStatue. A color guard of the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corp recruiters will present the colors. There will be displays inside and out including about the Sparta POW camp in 1944 For more information please see our website at: www.spartahistory.org. The Sparta Township Historical Commission. Following the event these Sparta restaurants are serving a Free dinner to all Veterans after 5 pm! – Cellar Brewery – Downtown Trini’s – Garden Patch – Big Joe’s. #44p

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.

Cancer Benefit Sale for Emma Orr

Aug. 31: A Cancer Benefit Sale will be held August 31^st to September 4^th from 9 am – 6 pm at 3373 Egner, Cedar Springs. 9 year old Emma of Cedar Springs is battling neuroblastoma.100 percent of the proceeds will go to Emma and her family. For questions or to drop off donations for the yard sale please contact Nicole at 616-263-9662 or Robin at 616-696-2798. #35

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

Sept. 5,12,19,26: Join us for dinner every Tuesday. God’s Kitchen – Cedar Springs welcomes families from Northern Kent County and the surrounding area to a Tuesday Evening Meal. No charge – no registration required!  Served from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at the St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. For more information, call the Church office at 616-696-3904. #35

Actors del Arte Ensemble Auditions

Sept. 5,7,12: Actors del Arte Ensemble of West Michigan will be holding auditions for a Hoot’n & Holler’n Comedy “Welcome to Chicken Scratch.” Sept 5th and 7th and Sept 12th (6-8pm) at Rockford Reformed Church 11 Mile Rd., Rockford. Looking for Adults,Teens and Children. Info 616-874-5264. #35

Help Promote Literacy

Sept. 5,12,14,29: The need is urgent at this time! The Literacy Center of West Michigan has scheduled  information sessions for prospective volunteer tutors. These sessions last one hour. It allows persons interested in becoming volunteer tutors to find out more about the Literacy Center and its programs. At the end of the session there will be a chance to sign up for tutor training. Sessions are Tuesday, September 5^th at 6 pm, Tuesday, September 12^th at 2 pm, Thursday, September 14^th at 6 pm and Friday, September 29^th at 10 am. 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 Literacy Center of West Michigan 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. #35

Food & Faith Free Family Picnic

Sept. 6: You are invited to a Food & Faith Family Picnic at CS United Methodist Church on Wednesday, September 6^th at 6 pm in the Fellowship Hall. FREE family event. Food, games, prizes, for all ages. Contact Sally at 616-788-8225 or office@cedarspringsumc.org. Bring a dish to pass if you wish. #34,35b

Rickerstrong Fundraiser Soccer Game

Sept. 7: A fundraiser Soccer game with Cedar Springs vs Greenville will be held at Cedar Springs High School, 204 E. Muskegon, on Thursday, September 7^th. There will also be an aluminum can drive, T-shirt sale and 50/50 raffle. All proceeds go to help the Ricker boys fight their battle with cancer. Read their story on facebook @ Team Rickerstrong. #35

Chicken BBQ and Rummage Sale

Sept. 8,9: Courtland Oakfield United Methodist Church, 10295 Myers Lake Rd., Rockford, is having their annual Chicken BBQ, Rummage and Bake Sale. The rummage and bake sale is Friday, September 8^th from 9 am to 4 pm, Saturday, September 9^th, from 9 am to 7 pm. BBQ Chicken will be available on Saturday, September 9^th from 4 to 7 pm. Half chicken and fixin’s, dine in or carry out. $10.00. All proceeds go toward community programs in 2018. #35,36b

A Different Kind of Selfie at KDL

Sept. 9: Creating Self-Portraits Using Mixed Media. Anyone can create art and what better subject than your own beautiful face! Using a variety of unique materials and a canvas, create your own version of yourself to show the world. For ages 6 and older. September 9^th at 1:30 pm at Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #35

10^th Anniversary Picnic

Sept. 10: American Legion Post #120 in Rockford will hold its 10^th Anniversary Picnic on Sunday, September 10^th from 12 noon to 6 pm. Public Welcome! Chicken Dinner, Adults $6.00, kids $2.00. Games, horseshoe tournament, music and prizes. #35

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.

Free Outdoor Family Concert

Aug. 19: The Community Building Development Team is hosting a Free Outdoor Family Concert on Saturday, August 19^th from 3 to 7 pm. It will be held in the “Heart of Cedar Springs” (park near the new Library). Two bands will be performing: Barn Cats and Whiskey Bound. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy! #31-33p

Open Mic at the CS Library

Aug. 19: You are invited to join local and regional writers in a night of reading original prose and poetry from 6 pm to 8 pm at the new Library in Cedar Springs, 107 N. Main Street. Readers will be initially scheduled for 5 minutes, but may be allowed more time depending on turnout. For more information on reading, email event master of ceremonies Ken at kdn13@hotmail.com. You may reach the Library at 616-901-7173. Feel free just to come to listen. Families welcome! #33

Dinner at the Legion

Aug. 21: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Pork Chop dinner on Monday, August 21^st, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes & gravy, stuffing, 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.  #33p

Annual Second Best Sale

Aug. 25,26: Holy Spirit Episcopal Church’s Annual Second Best Sale is Friday, August 25 from 9 am – 4 pm and Saturday, August 26 from 9 am – 2 pm. There is a $5 “Early Bird Admission” charge on Friday only from 8-9 am; after 9 am admission is free! The sale is sponsored by the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) in support of parish activities. We have something for everyone, and everything is priced to move! Holy Spirit Episcopal Church is located at 1200 Post Drive NE, Belmont (corner of Post & Pine Island, 1/4 mile west of Exit 95 on US 131). #33,34b

HCNC Benefit Auction

Aug. 27: Come join us at Howard Christensen Nature Center on August 27^th for our Benefit Auction! Not only are we auctioning off items we no longer have use for, but we will have food, drinks, and other items for sale! Browsing will start at 1:30 pm, with the auction kicking off at 3 pm. Don’t miss out! If you have any questions or gently used items to donate to the auction, please let us know before the date of the event. 16160 Red Pine Drive, Kent City, 616-675-3158. #33

Improv Night at the Kent

Aug. 30: Fans of Improv need look no further than the Kent Theatre as the Cedar Springs Community Players hold Improv Night at 7 pm on Wednesday, August 30^th on the stage of the Kent Theatre in downtown Cedar Springs. The Players held its first Improv Night in February and are excited to offer another night of comedy on August 30^th. Tickets are available at the door for $5.00. Doors will open at 6:30 pm. Hope to see you there! #33,34b

CSUMC August Rummage Sale

Aug. 30,31: Cedar Springs United Methodist Women will holding our annual rummage sale in the fellowship hall of United Methodist Church at the corner of Main and Church Streets. Wednesday, August 30^th, 9 am to 7 pm & Thursday, August 31^st, 9 am to 2 pm. There will be a $3.00/bag sale all day Thursday on clothing and linens. #33,34b

Wine and Water Colors

Sept. 9: Meet our resident artist Tracey, as she takes you through the steps of creating your own masterpiece! Joined by Kare our Sommelier, you are sure to have an enjoyable evening, full of laughter. Saturday, September 9^th from 6 to 9 pm. $35 per person, $20 for members. This is an adult only event. Location to be determined. Pre-registration requested www.howardchristensen.org, 616-675-3158. #33

Red Flannel Day Talent Show Tryouts

Sept. 13,20,28: Looking for talented kids of all ages. The Red Flannel Talent Show is searching for singers, vocal groups, dancers, instrumentalists and variety acts for the Red Flannel Day Talent Show on October 7^th. Come in and show us what you got. Tryouts on Wednesday, September 13^th and 20^th, Thursday September 28^th at 7:00 pm at the Kent Theatre, 8 N. Main St. Cedar Springs. Dress rehearsal will be Thursday, October 5^th. So, get together with friends and family and plan your act now. If you have any questions, or can’t make it on tryout day, please contact Len by email, len@laphoto.com or 231-750-2337. #33,34p

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.

Family Fun Day at Metron

Aug. 4: Metron of Cedar Springs’ annual Family Fun Day will be held on Friday, August 4^th from 4 to 6 pm at 400 Jeffrey St. NE in Cedar Springs. Bring the entire family for games, food, entertainment, raffles and a balloon release. #30,31p

Summer Gospel Music Blowout

Aug. 5: This benefit to support 2^nd Chance School will be held on Saturday, August 5^th from 3 to 9 pm at 2^nd Chance School, 810 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. Music starts at 3 pm and will feature a new group each hour with Old Time Gospel Singers, Wayne Jarvie, Stroll Over Heaven, Northwoods Brothers, Traditional Country and Gospel Singers and North Country Band. There will be food, Chinese raffle, and 50-50 raffles. Come enjoy the music and support 2^nd Chance. For information contact Mike Hubert 231-335-0726 or Harvey Becker 616-460-1318. #30,31b

Sing to the Lord

Aug. 6: 2^nd Chance will be having gospel hymn sing on Sunday, August 6^th at 6 pm. It will be at 2^nd Chance School at 810 – 17 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs (corner of 17 Mile and Olin Lakes Rd). Music will be provided by Deb and Larry Eadie and the message shared by Ron Parson. Invite your family and friends. The Sing to the Lord hymn sings will be every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month. Sing to the Lord hymn sings will introduce you to 2nd Chance and its vision. The school is in the building stage, which when completed, will teach troubled teens through God and the horse. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #31b

Dinner at the Legion

Aug. 7: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Roast Beef and Onions dinner on Monday, August 7^th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes, 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.  #31

Underground Railroad Michigan Connection

Aug. 10: Explore “The Underground Railroad Michigan Connection” with storyteller, historian and author Dr. Willie W. Payne on Thursday, August 10^th at 6:30 p.m. at the Timothy C. Hauenstein Reynolds Township Library in Howard City. Payne uses music, songs and photos of Michigan Underground Railroad stops to narrate stories and excite audiences while describing places throughout Michigan where fugitive slaves were harbored. The presentation is part of the 2017 One Book One County Montcalm program, which features the selection, “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi. Visit www.montcalm.edu/one-book for more information or call 989-328-2111, Ext. 261. #31

6^th Annual Keeler Brass Picnic

Aug. 15: The 6^th annual Keeler Brass picnic will be held on Tuesday, August 15^th at Sand Lake United Methodist Church, 65 W. Maple St., Sand Lake at 11 am. Please bring a dish to pass. #31,32p

Discover Michigan’s Rural Black Heritage

Aug. 15: Discover Michigan’s rural black heritage through photographs and oral history on Tuesday, August 15^th at 6:30 p.m. at the Flat River Community Library in Greenville. Through the use of oral tradition and photographs, a trained historian will share the experiences of what African-American pioneers in outstate Michigan looked like between 1880 and 1950. The presentation is part of the 2017 One Book One County Montcalm program, which features the selection, “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi. Visit www.montcalm.edu/one-book for more information or call 989-328-2111, Ext. 261. #31

Lyons School Reunion

Aug. 18: The Lyons School Reunion will be held on Friday, August 18^th at Library Park on Meddler Ave., Gowen. Just south of the Library. The time is 6 pm. Call Dave Jensen for more details. 616-696-9632. #31,32p

Free Outdoor Family Concert

Aug. 19: The Community Building Development Team is hosting a Free Outdoor Family Concert on Saturday, August 19^th from 3 to 7 pm. It will be held in the “Heart of Cedar Springs” (park near the new Library). Two bands will be performing: Barn Cats and Whiskey Bound. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy! #31-33p

SHIRLEY MERLINGTON

Friends and family are invited to an open house to wish Shirley Merlington a happy 80^th birthday on Sunday, July 23^rd from 11 am to 2 pm at the American Legion hall in Cedar Springs. You don’t need to bring gifts, just your smiling faces!

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.

Head Start for Kent County

Apply today! North Kent Head Start a high quality preschool program is taking applications. No cost to families. 3 year old – full day classes. Family support – transportation (in most areas). Nutritious meals and snacks. Child Health and Development screenings. Accommodations for children with disabilities. Families must meet eligibility guidelines. Complete an application on our website www.hs4kc.org or call 616-453-4145. #28,29b

Potluck Picnic, Movie and Sidewalk Sales

July 14,15 : Christmas in July Community Potluck Picnic and Movie in Morley Park: The fun starts Friday, July 14^th at  6 pm in Morley Park. This year the Cedar Springs area Chamber of Commerce has decided to add a community potluck/picnic to the Christmas in July movie in Morley Park event. This is a free event where everyone is welcome. Bring the family down & a dish to pass and enjoy dinner and yard games in the park before the movie starts! This year’s Christmas in July movie will be “Arthur Christmas”. Saturday July 15^th over 90 businesses & vendors will participate in Christmas in July Sidewalk Sales. #28b

Sing to the Lord

July 16: 2^nd Chance will be having gospel hymn sing on Sunday, July 16^th at 6 pm. It will be at 2^nd Chance School at 810 – 17 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs (corner of 17 Mile and Olin Lakes Rd). Music will be provided by Deb and Larry Eadie and the message shared by Ron Parson. Invite your family and friends. The Sing to the Lord hymn sings will be every 1^st and 3^rd Sunday of the month. Sing to the Lord hymn sings will introduce you to 2nd Chance and its vision. The school is in the building stage, which when completed, will teach troubled teens through God and the horse. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #28b

Dinner at the Legion

July 17: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Baked Chicken dinner on Monday, July 17^th , from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes, stuffing, 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.  #28

VBS at Ensley Baptist Church

July 17-21: Ensley Baptist Church, 7077 E. 120^th St., Sand Lake will be hosting Vacation Bible School, “Camp Kilimanjaro” an epic expedition through Proverbs, July 17 thru 21 from 9 am to 12 noon. Ages: pre-K thru 6^th grade. #28

Alan Kazam – Magic Show

July 18: If it’s fun, laughter and unforgettable memories you’re looking for, then come watch Alan Kazam, a professional magician who has been delighting audiences with his unique brand of magic for over 20 years. Presented by the Cedar Springs Community Library on Tuesday, July 18^th from 1 to 2 pm at Cedar Springs Middle School, corner Northland Drive and 16 Mile Rd. #28

Celebrate Recovery Tent Meeting

July 18: The weekly (Tuesday at 6:30 pm) meeting fo the nationally recognized program Celebrate Recovery will be a tent meeting outside on Tuesday, July 18^th at Hillcrest Community Church, 5993 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs, MI 49319. Phone 616-696-9333 for more information. #28

Michigan Blood Drive

July 18: A Michigan Blood Drive will be held on July 18^th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church from 12:30 pm until 7 pm. Members of the Cedar Springs Women’s Club will be grilling hot dogs for all those who attempt to donate. Chips and a drink will be included. Summer is a particularly slow number for donors but a high demand for blood. 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. #28

VBS at Cedar Springs UMC

July 24-27: Come and discover your Super strength with us at “Hero Central!” We’ll have lots of fun – including crafts, games, stories and much more. Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main Street. July 24^th to the 27^th from 6 to 8 pm. Find registration forms on our website, www.cedarspringsumc.org, outside of the Sanctuary or in the church office. Contact Sally Johnson with any questions at 616-788-8225 or email: sallex58@gmail.com. #28,29b

VBS at Resurrection Lutheran Church

July 24-28: Vacation Bible School at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 180 Northland Drive, Sand Lake will be held July 24^th – 28^th from 6 to 8 pm. Ages 4 years old to sixth grade (entering). For registration information, please email churchresurrection@yahoo.com or call 616-636-5502. #27-29b