theTable at The Springs Church

Mar.7,14,21,28: Meals are served every Thursday fom 5:30 to 6:30 pm at The Springs Church on the corner of Oak and Grant. All are welcome to theTable to enjoy this meal that is being shared with us! #tfn

Radio Classics at the Kent Theatre

Mar. 14-16: Performances of “Radio Classics,” staged by the Cedar Springs Community Players, will be held at the Kent Theatre in downtown Cedar Springs from March 14-16, starting at 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are available at the Cedar Springs Public Library for $10 for adults; $8 for students 18 and under. You may purchase tickets before each performance at the Kent Box Office for $12 for adults and same admission of $8 for students. The house opens at 7 p.m. and tickets may be purchased at that time. Please check the website for the Library for their operating hours. #10,11b

Free Saint Patrick’s Day Irish Dinner and Music!

Mar. 16: Dress in your green and come join us for a great evening of food, music and fun as we celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Saturday, March 16, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 South Main St., Cedar Springs. Free tickets are available at the CSUMC office Mon. – Thu. 9:00am – 1:00 pm. And at the following locations: Perry’s Place 90 N. Main or Rustic Roof 6 S. Main. #10,11b

Huge Sale at Rockford Reformed Church

Mar. 16: Rockford Reformed Church, 4890 11 Mile Rd NE, will be holding their HUGE annual sale on Saturday March 16^th from 9 am to 2 pm. A $5 bag sale will be held from 1pm-2pm. All proceeds benefit our youth ministries summer mission trips. #11

Free Hunter Safety Class

March 19,21,23: To register for firearm Hunter Safety Classes at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, 7463 – 18 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs. Classes will be Tuesday, March 19^th  from 6-9 pm,  Thursday, March 21^st from 6-9pm,  Saturday, March 23^rd from 8 am-4:00 pm. To register call 616-696-9791 after 5 pm. #10,11b

Michigan Blood Drive

Mar. 19: Michigan Blood Drive will be held Tuesday, March 19^th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church located at 140 S Main Cedar Springs. The drive is will go from 12:30 pm until 7 pm. To schedule an appointment visit https://donate.miblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/103960 Women and girls receive 53 percent of blood transfusions; men and boys receive 47 percent. #11

Annual Pancake Breakfast

Mar. 23: Courtland Fire Department’s Annual Pancake Breakfast, 7480 – 14 Mile Rd., Rockford, will be held on Saturday, March 23^rd from 8 am-11 am. All you can eat pancakes, eggs, sausage and hash browns. Coffee juice and milk. Adults-$7, Kids ages 4-12-$4, ages 3 and under free. #11

FREE UFOlogy Classes

Mar. 31: Dr. Ron Pleune will be offering a FREE 9 week power-point series on UFOlogy and the Billy Meier Contactee story beginning March 31.  Topics will cover alien visitations, spaceship technology, history of the earth, abductions, the human spirit, Bermuda Triangle, Mt. Shasta, Easter Island, Germany’s UFO program, energy/time and space, pyramids, alien glass and metal, where different races came from, time travel and much more including how you can contact UFO! BYOB, notebook and pen for notes and handouts! Dates: March 31, April 7, 14, 28, May 5, 12, 19, June 2, 9. Time: 4:30-6 p.m. At: White Creek, Country Estates, 15851White Creek Ave. Cedar Springs. #11,12p

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

Aug. 13: 2^nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church on Sunday, August 13^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). The message and music will be shared by North Country Band. Invite your family and friends. Cowboy Church will be every 2^nd and 4^th Sunday of the month. Each service will have different people sharing God’s word and music. Cowboy Church 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! #32b

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

Michigan Blood Drive

August 15: A Michigan Blood Drive will be held on August 15^th at the Cedar Springs Methodist Church from 12:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Members of the Cedar Springs Women’s Club will be grilling hot dogs for all who attempt to donate. Chips and a drink will be included. Blood supplies have been down. It only takes an hour to help save 3 people’s life. The Blood Center thanks all the people that donate at the Cedar Springs blood drive. #32

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

Waterslide Day at CS Library

Aug. 18: Join us for a fun time splashing down the waterslide and bouncing in the bounce houses! Cedar Springs Community Library on Friday, August 18^th from 11 am to 1 pm. Wear clothes that you can get wet and a towel to dry off. Parents, feel free to bring a blanket or chair to keep you comfy. There will be popsicles, but you may bring your own food and drinks. NO storytime that day. #32

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

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

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.

VBS at Huggard Bible

July 17-20: Huggard Bible Church, 8860 – 20 Mile Rd., Sand Lake, will host “Ocean Commotion, Diving into Noah’s Flood” from July 17^th to the 20^th , 6:30 to 8 pm, registration at 6 pm. 3 year olds to 6^th grade. Questions: 616-636-5561. Hope to see you there. #27,28p

Dinner at the Legion

July 18: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Baked Chicken dinner on Monday, July 18^th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be baked chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, stuffing, veggies, salad, roll, drink and dessert. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160.  #28p

VBS at Hillcrest Community Church

July 18-22: What happens when we go underground into the darkness of a cave? We learn to rely on the only Light that can overtake whatever darkness we face in life! Jesus! At Cave Quest Vacation Bible School from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, children from age 4 years – 5^th grade will discover how to call on God’s Light to brighten any darkness they may face. Please visit our Facebook event at Hillcrest Community Church of God for more details and registration information. Please feel free to stop in at Hillcrest at 5994 – 18 Mile Rd. We have office hours on Wednesday and Thursday each week, or call the office at 616-696-9333 to RSVP. #27,28

Hosts Needed for Chinese Students

July 19: Looking to go to China, but can’t afford it? We’ll bring China to you. Network 153 and Pine Ridge Bible Camp are hosting 73 Chinese students from Lu He International High School in Beijing July 19 thru August 8. They’re traveling to Grand Rapids to be immersed in English, while attending Pine Ridge Bible Camp August 1-6. We’re looking for host families who would open up their hearts and homes. A $150 stipend, will be given to each family per student hosted to help defray costs. Contact Tim Bauer for more information at (616) 799-4935 or at network153usa@gmail.com. #25-28p

Michigan Blood Drive

July 19: Hot dogs are back! Michigan Blood Drive on July 19^th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church from 12:30 until 7:00 pm in the Church gymnasium. Summer is a particularly hard time for the blood supply so the need is greater. To thank you, the ladies from the Cedar Springs Women’s Club will grill a hot dog for anyone attempting to donate. You have the potential to save 3 lives. It is a win-win situation for all. The Blood Center thanks all the people that donate at the Cedar Springs Blood Drive. #28

Fill the Truck to Support Tiffany’s Tiny Cat Rescue

July 23: Boy Scout Troop 222 will be collecting donations on Saturday, July 23^rd in the Tractor Supply parking lot from 9 am to 2 pm. Items needed include food (Purina Cat & Kitten Chow), litter, cat care products, cleaning & laundry products, paper towels, and old blankets/sheets/towels. For more information or to arrange alternate drop off time, please contact Laurie at 616-304-9929. #28,29p

Cookie Chaos at KDL

July 25: Calling all teen chefs to our crazy, chaotic cookie decorating competition. You just might become the Cookie Chaos Champion, although everyone wins when there are cookies to eat! Pre-registration required, 877-243-2466. Monday, July 25^th at 1:30 pm at the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #28

Fallen Heroes Golf Outing

July 30: The 7^th Annual Fallen Heroes Golf Outing will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, July 30^th at North Kent Golf Club. $70 per person includes golf w/cart, and steak dinner. Grand prize is a fishing trip for 4 with Hillbilly Charters, Grand Haven, Hole-In-One Contest, 50/50 raffle and other contests and prizes. Contact North Kent Golf Club 616-866-2659. Monies raised will be donated to the Veterans Memorial Park in Cedar Springs. #28-29p

Register Now For Free Hunter Education

Aug. 9: To register for firearm Hunter Safety Classes at the Red Flannel Rod & Gun Club, call Jim Pope at 231-834-5545 after 6 pm or 616-634-3167. Classes at the Club, 7463 18 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs, will be Tuesday, August 9^th, from 6-9 pm,  Thursday, August 11^th, from 6-9pm,  Saturday, August 13^th, from 8 am-4 pm. Class size limited to 40 students. #28,29p

Lakeview School Alumni Banquet

Sept. 11: The Lakeview School Alumni (this includes any former Lakeview School student from  2016 and earlier) and retired teachers are invited to attend the Annual Alumni Banquet to be held at Lakeview High School on Sunday, September 11^th.  The cost is $15 per person with open house at 11 am and dinner at 1 pm. We will be honoring the Class of 1966 on their 50^th Anniversary and the Class of 1956 on their 60^th Anniversary. Reservations must be made prior to September 2^nd be sending payment with your name, maiden name (if applicable) and year of graduation to: Noreen Badge, 11872 W. Dickerson Lake Rd., Trufant, MI 49347, phone 616-984-5616. Questions may be directed to President Pat Hadrich, 616-984-2938. Come join the fun and you may be the winner of some great door prizes. Please spread the work to out-of-town classmates. #28

Bus Trip to Lansing

Oct. 4: On Tuesday, October 4th at 12 pm Franklin Graham’s Decision America is coming to Michigan’s Capital. I am hoping to find 40 people willing to commit $25 each to hire a bus to Lansing’s Capital where the event will take place. America is at a critical crossroad in its history and I believe that only through prayer can we turn people’s hearts and minds back to God. In prayer we are neither Republican or Democrat, of one denomination or another. We are believers who are willing to set everything aside to humble ourselves before God and ask Him to heal America. We will be praying for our local, state, and federal government leaders, for God’s protection over our Military and Police Officers. Please join us. Questions? Contact Kathryn Bremmer 616-696-0591. #28,29p

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.

CS Youth Football Sign-ups

June 16, 23: Cedar Springs Youth Football sign-ups will be held on Thursday, June 16 and Thursday, June 23 from 6-8 pm at Burger King, Cedar Springs. Flag: 4-7 year olds, Rocket: 3^rd – 6^th grade, Middle: 7^th & 8^th grade. Contact April Victorson, 616-890-5869, a_victorson@yahoo.com. #24,25p

VBS at Cedar Springs UMC

June 20-23 & 25: Catch the Wave of God’s Amazing Love at Surf Shack – 150 Vacation Bible School! June 20-23 from 6 – 8 pm. Grades K-6^th are invited to Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main St., to discover how to surf through life with God and others! New this year, as we celebrate our 150^th year in this community – 150 Field Day on Saturday June 25^th from 1 – 4 pm at Morley Park! Register online at www.cedarspringsumc.org. For more information, please call the church office at 616-696-1140. #23,24

Dinner at the Legion

June 20: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Swiss Steak dinner on Monday, June 20^th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be mashed potatoes and gravy, baked beans, veggies, salad, roll, drink and dessert. 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

CASSA Tryouts

June 20-23: The Cedar Area Select Soccer Association (CASSA) will be holding free soccer try-outs at the Boomer Park Soccer Fields, 13440 Ritchie Ave NE, Cedar Springs MI 49319. June 20th U9-U12 Boys birth years 2005-2008, June 21st U9-U12 Girls birth years 2005-2008, June 22nd U13-U14 Boys & Girls birth years 2003-2004 and June 23rd Boys & Girls U15-U19 birth years 1998-2002. Registration from 5:30-6:30 pm with try-outs starting promptly at 6:30-8 pm. Visit our website @ www.cassasoccer.com for detailed try-out information and forms to fill out prior to try-outs. #24

Blood Drive at CS UMC

June 21: Michigan Blood Drive at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church on Tuesday, June 21st from 12:30 pm-7:00 pm. For this drive only, we will be using the bus in the north parking lot. With summer officially here, many people will be traveling and the need for blood is greater. Please help fill that need with an hour of your time. The Blood Center thanks all the people who donate at the Cedar Springs drives. #24

Take off pounds sensibly

June 21: 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 Barb at 696-8049 for more information. #24

Blessing of the Bicycles

June 25: The 2nd Blessing of the Bicycles Event to be held on June 25th starting at 11 am until 2 pm at The Springs Church, corner of Oak and First Street. Kids of all ages are welcome for face painting, games, and bike decorating. Free t-shirts, helmets, along with several used bikes (for those that may need one) will be available while supplies last. Helmet Safety Demonstration will be given by Rockford Ambulance at 12:30, followed by the Blessing at 1 pm given by Pastor Cherri’ and a drawing will be done with various items to be won after that. Blessing is open to all Bike Riders – Adults and Kids! Hope to see you there! #24,25

Cooking Matters for Families Workshop

July 7: Cooking Matters for Families Workshop encourages families to work together to make healthy meals that everyone will enjoy. Cooking Matters encourages participants to select nutritious foods, prepare and cook healthy foods side by side, and choose budget-friendly healthy ingredients that the whole family will enjoy. This is a FREE 6 week workshop for adults and youth (10yrs and up). Limited space available. Begins on July 7 from 9-11 am at Solon Center Wesleyan Church, 15671 Algoma Ave, Cedar Springs. This workshop is offered by MSU Extension with the food pantry at Solon Center Wesleyan Church. Please contact Terry Gafurovic to register at 616.696.3229 or terrygaf79@gmail.com. #24-26

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

Feb.14: 2nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church on Sunday, February 14th 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 Joann Gitchel from Howard City, Michigan, who has an amazing story to share. The Gitchel family musical group will also share the words of Jesus Christ through their music. 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! #6

TOPS weight loss support group

Feb. 16: 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 8:15-9 am, meeting starts at 9:15 am. In case of inclement weather, meetings are cancelled if Tri-County or Cedar Springs schools are closed. Call Barb at 696-8049 for more information. #6

Blood Drive

Feb. 16: Michigan Blood Drive on February 16th at the Cedar Springs Methodist Church from 12:30 pm until 7 pm. A great Valentine’s present to someone in need – right from your heart. Your donation has the potential to help 3 people. The Blood Center thanks all the people that attempt to donate. #6

Dinner at East Nelson UMC

Feb. 17: East Nelson UMC, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd. will be having a Roast Beef dinner on Wednesday, February 17th from 5 – 7 pm. The menu will include roast beef, red potatoes, carrots, pasta salad, rolls, desserts, relish tray. Everyone is welcome. #6

Roast Beef Dinner

Feb. 21: The Rockford American Legion Post 102 on the corner of Northland Dr. and Rockford Park Dr. (330 Rockford Park Dr.), will be hosting a roast beef dinner on Sunday February 21st and every 3rd Sunday of each month. Open to the public. We will be serving roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, green beans, coleslaw, rolls, dessert, coffee and punch. Reasonably priced at $9 for adults, kids age 4 to 12 for $7 and under 4 years are free. Serving from 11am to 3 pm. See ya there and bring the family! #6,7p

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.

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Jan. 16: The Cedar Springs Lions Club’s Pancake Breakfast will be held this Saturday on January 16^th from 7 – 11 am at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, on the corner of Main and Church. Adults $8 and Family $25. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, juice, coffee. All you can eat. Other planned dates are February 20^th, March 19^th and April 16^th. Proceeds to assist sight conservation. #2

Roast Beef Dinner

Jan. 17: The Rockford American Legion Post 102 on the corner of Northland Dr. and Rockford Park Dr. (330 Rockford Park Dr.), will be hosting a roast beef dinner on Sunday, January 17^th and every 3^rd Sunday of each month. Open to the public. We will be serving roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, green beans, coleslaw, rolls, desert, coffee and punch. Reasonably priced at $9 for adults, kids age 4 to 12 for $7 and under 4 years are free. Serving from 11am to 3 pm. See ya there and bring the family! #1,2p

TOPS weight loss support group

Jan. 19: Take off pounds sensibly (TOPS), a non-profit weight loss support group for men and women, meets every Tuesday at the Resurrection Lutheran Church in Sand Lake. Your first visit is free so come check out what TOPS can do to help you reach your 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 Barb at 696-8049 for more information. #1

Michigan Blood Drive:

Jan. 19: Michigan Blood Drive: Tuesday, January 19th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 12:30 pm- 7:00 pm. Make a New Year’s Resolution: Donate every 2 months for 2016. You would have the potential to help 18 people! #2

Community Supported Agriculture

Jan. 19: Learn how you can fill your table with fresh, local, organic produce that’s good for the body and good for the earth. Tuesday, January 19^th at 7 pm at Courtland-Oakfield UMC, 10295 Myers Lake, NE. #2

KDL Lab: Mad Scientist

Jan. 23: Pull on a lob coat and get ready to think like a mad scientist. Create a plush Franken-Beanie creature to take home, create slimy bugs in the Creepy Crawlers Oven and plan your next mad scientist creation with a Franken-creature collage! For ages 6 and older. Saturday, January 23^rd at 10:30 am. Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. 616-636-4251. #2

Women’s Day Retreat

Feb. 6: Need to get away from it all? A day away just for women will be held at the beautiful Loon’s Nest Banquet Center at Whitefish Lake on Saturday, February 6th from 9 am – 4 pm. Registration is at 8:30 am. The event called “G.R.O.W. – the Godly Rise of Women” is designed to encourage growth in women’s relationships, not only with God, but with spouses, family and personal friendships as well. Tickets are $35 which includes a delicious lunch, all day snacks and beverages, guest speaker Gail Ramesh the originator or the retreat ministry called Unveiled, and materials for special (hands on) breakout sessions. The day is sponsored by the Women’s Ministry of the Solon Center Wesleyan Church. Tickets can be purchased at online at: https://scwchurch.cloverdonations.com/grow-registration/ or call the church office at 616-696-3229. The Loon’s Nest is located at 2241 Bass Lake Rd., Pierson. All women welcome! #2,3p

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 Nutritional Options for Wellness

N.O.W. (Nutritional Options for Wellness) program held at Solon Center Wesleyan Church Food Pantry. Teaching disease self-management and healthy habits to those in need. Partnering with Access of West Michigan, we offer healthy food and nutrition education classes to low-income individuals who suffer from one of the following diseases: Cardiovascular, Diabetes, COPD, Renal Disease, Celiac Disease. Talk to your doctor today for referral into the program. For general questions, please call Nancy at Access of West Michigan, 616-774-2175 ext. 109. #49,50p

“American Graffiti” fundraiser for CS Library

Dec. 11: The Kent Theatre is hosting a movie as a fundraising event for the new Cedar Springs Library on Friday, December 11^th at 7 pm. For this event we will be showing the George Lucas film “American Graffiti”. This classic “coming of age” film about life in the early 1960s stars Ron Howard, Harrison Ford, Richard Dreyfuss, Cindy Williams, Wolfman Jack and many, many more. Come join us at the Kent Theatre for a fun and nostalgia filled evening and raise money for a great cause! Tickets are $5 each and 100% of the money raised will go to the new library. #48, 49p

Praise the Lord at Cowboy Church

Dec. 13: 2^nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church starting Sunday, December 13^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. The message will be shared by Bob “Toad” Cook, from Big Rapids, Michigan, retired Professional Rodeo Barrelman, who has an amazing testimony to share. The music will be provided by Ron Lynnes, from White Cloud, Michigan. Invite your family and friends. Cowboy Church will be every 2^nd and 4^th Sunday of the month. There will be no service on December 27^th so you can celebrate the Christmas weekend with your family. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. #49

Michigan Blood Drive

Dec. 15: A Michigan Blood Drive will be held on Tuesday, December 15^th at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church from 12:30 to 7 pm. What a better Christmas gift than to give someone a blood donation. Each unit donated has the potential to help three people. The cost to you is an hour of your time. Cedar Springs Women’s Club will be providing homemade cookies. #49

Christmas Fund Distribution

Dec. 16: Due to the generosity of the late Evelyn Cossin, there are limited funds available again this year to assist some families in need for Christmas. The funds are available only to families living in the Cedar Springs city limits. Please send or bring letters requesting assistance to: Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main St., PO Box K, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, C/O – Janet Avery. All letters should include some brief summary of your need for assistance. Letters must be received NO LATER THAN, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16th. **Note: If awarded some assistance, we will send you a letter informing you of your pick up times of 10am –noon and 7pm – 8pm on Wednesday, December 23rd at Cedar Springs UMC. All letters received will receive some notification of acceptance or denial of assistance. #49

Gingerbread Lane at Two KDL Branches 

Dec. 17,19: Stroll down Gingerbread Lane and enjoy tasty gingerbread stories. Each child will make a simple gingerbread house. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. For all ages.

Thursday, December 17^th at 6 pm at the Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler, Gowen, 616-984-5680 and Saturday, December 19^th at 10:30 am the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. 161-636-4251. #49

HCNC Holiday Social

Dec. 18: Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16160 Red Pine Drive, Kent City, will provide wine, punch and hors d’oeuvres on Friday, December 18^th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Bring your whole family! Everyone is invited! Games for the kids, Directors annual report and a time to socialize with the staff and other supporters of HCNC. Questions, call 616-675-3158. #49

Christmas Bake Sale

Dec. 19: The Tri County Country 4H Club Christmas Bake Sale will be held on Saturday, December 19^th from 9 am to 2 pm at the Tractor Supply Co. in Cedar Springs. Packaged for holiday gift giving. #49.50p

Roast Beef Dinner

Dec. 20: The Rockford American Legion Post 102 on the corner of Northland Dr. and Rockford Park Dr. (330 Rockford Park Dr.), will be hosting a roast beef dinner on Sunday December 20^th and every 3^rd Sunday of each month. Open to the public. We will be serving roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, green beans, coleslaw, rolls, dessert, coffee and punch. Reasonably priced at $9 for adults, kids age 4 to 12 for $7 and under 4 years are free. Serving from 11am to 3 pm. See ya there and bring the family! #49,50p

Saturday, October 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Montcalm County Neighborhood Watch program is teaming up again with the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Department, Montcalm County Emergency Services, the Montcalm Township Fire Department, numerous other area fire departments, and many additional agencies to offer an old-fashioned picnic for the whole family to enjoy and to celebrate National Fire Prevention Week. The activities are planned for Saturday, October 4th from11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Montcalm Township Hall Complex located on M-91 in Turk Lake. Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy free hot dogs, chips, and ice cream, plus lots of fun, demonstrations, displays, and entertainment from WGLM 106.3 Radio who will be broadcasting live during the event.

This will be the seventh year this event has been held and it promises to be the best display of county services ever provided.

One of the most fascinating and informative exhibits over the past couple of years has been the demonstration of extrication procedures by the Montcalm Township Fire Department. They will be using the Jaws of Life to demonstrate their skill in extricating victims from two vehicles involved in simulated crashes. Several other area fire departments and their specialized equipment will also be present to represent the mutual aid cooperation that exists between agencies and to bring awareness to the National Fire Protection Week, which begins the following day.

Many other exhibits and demonstrations will be available including the ever popular Smoke House, the Montcalm County Sheriff’s Marine Division, the Dive Team, the Mobile Command Center, Michigan Working Dogs, the Montcalm County Animal Shelter, a dunk tank, and United Lifestyles Drunk Driving Course. A Montcalm County Neighborhood Watch representative will be available with information to help you keep yourself, your family and property safe.

A Michigan Blood Drive is being added this year as a way in which to give back to our community and its residents. They will be present from 10 until 2 for donations and state they would prefer appointments, if possible. Interested individuals may contact Clif Dickinson @ 616-754-1780.

For more information in the picnic, please contact Dawn Miles at 616-788-8602.