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.

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

July 4,11,18,25: 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. #26

Family Movie Night “The Shack,” Free movie!

July 8: Based on the bestselling book, “The Shack.” Free Admission, free popcorn, free lemonade and reasonable soft drinks. Showing at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall, Saturday July 8^th at 7:00 pm. #26,27b

Southern Gospel Concert at East Nelson UMC

July 8: Internationally known touring group, Keepers of the Faith Quartet, will be at East Nelson United Methodist Church, 9024 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs on Saturday, July 8^th at 6:30 pm. You don’t want to miss this amazing group of singers. Their message is certainly powerful and their music superb. Please come and invite your friends for an evening of inspiration! The concert is free; a love offering will be taken. For more information call 616-696-0661. #26,27p

Cedar Springs Youth Football SIGN-UPS

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

VBS at Hillcrest Community Church

July 17-21: Incredible & Amazing VBS Thrills coming to Hillcrest Community Church, 5994 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs, July 17 – 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Ages 3 through 5^th grade will enjoy exploring God’s Creation. Our Amazement Park theme will culminate with a special carnival fun night on Friday, July 21^st at 6:30 pm. You will also want to come on Sunday, July 23^rd at 10 am for VBS Sunday. All kids will be singing and sharing. Register online at hillcrestcommunitychurch.blogspot.com or call 616-696-9333. #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.

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.

Head Start for Kent County

Apply today! North Kent Heat Start is a high quality preschool program at no cost to families. 3 year old – full day classes, family support – transportation (in most cases), nutritious meals and snacks, child health and development screenings. Accommodations for children with disabilities. Families must meet eligibility guidelines. Enrolling now! Complete an Application on our website www.hs4kc.org or call 616-453-4145. #22,23p

Summer Celebration Fireworks – View From the Hill

June 11: You are invited to enjoy the Rockford Start of Summer fireworks from the hill at Rockford Reformed Church, 4890 – 11 Mile Rd. NE on Saturday, June 11^th. Popcorn, refreshments, and children’s activities provided. Please bring a chair or blanket, your family and friends and enjoy the beauty of the fireworks from the top of the hill at Rockford Reformed Church. Hope to see you there. #22,23p

Vacation Bible School @ 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

Red Flannel Queen Pageant Contestants

June 12: Attention all young ladies living or attending school in the Cedar Springs School district who will be in the 11th grade in the 2016-17 school year. There will be a mandatory parent’s meeting for any interested young lady and her parents concerning the 2016 Red Flannel Pageant. The meeting will be Sunday, June 12th at 3 pm at the Springs Church (135 N. Grant St.) There will be a makeup meeting Sunday, June 26th at 3 pm at the Springs Church. For more information, you can contact pageant director Kaleigh Rosenberger at redflannelpageant@gmail.com. #22,23p

Praise the Lord at Cowboy Church

June 12: 2^nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church on Sunday, June 12^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 Pastor Craig Carter from North Kent Community Church. 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. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #23

VBS at Snow Bible Church

June 13-17: Snow Bible Church, 1877 – 18 Mile Rd. Kent City, will host Cave Quest Vacation Bible School June 13 – 17 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm for grades K-6th. Enjoy Bible stories, crafts and games. Any questions please call Vickie at 616-901-5274. #23

A Magic Show with Tom Plunkard

June 14: Tom Plunkard’s entertaining and hilarious show includes animals, audience involvement and tons of amazing magic. For families with children. Tuesday, June 14^th at 1:30 pm at the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #23

Flying Aces Frisbee team

June 15: You don’t want to miss the tricks, amazing feats, and the fun of seeing the Flying Aces Frisbee team in action on Wednesday, June 15, at 4 p.m. at Cedar Springs Middle School. This family program is part of the Cedar Springs Library’s summer reading program. #23

The Village Puppeteers

June 15: It’s a raucous comic romp, packed with silly antics and featuring a cavalcade of colorful puppets. Puss ‘N Boots, the Three Little Pigs, Humpty Dumpty, Little Miss Muffet and Rumpelstiltskin joined by a host of others, including a dazzling dragon. For families with children. Wednesday, June 15^th at 6:30 pm at the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #23

Henna with Harsha Gohil

June 20: Experience the intricate art of henna tattooing with Harsha Gohil. Choose your own design for application and learn how to apply the henna yourself! For teens. Pre-registration is required, 877-243-2466. Monday, June 20^th at 1:30 pm at the Nelson Township/Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #23

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