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A Note From the Administrator
It’s amazing how fast time is going and that it is already mid- October! Halloween is right around the corner, along with some big events like the State of the County Address in early November.
In my last Digest, I forgot to express my gratitude to all those who played a vital role in the reinvention of ArtPrize. This community event was nothing short of spectacular, and it would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of so many individuals. Kudos to each and every one of you who contributed to making ArtPrize a resounding success.
Commissioner Baker and I had the pleasure of attending the Asian Gala last week, a remarkable event hosted by the West Michigan Asian American Association. The evening was a poignant reminder of the positive impact Asian Americans have on our community. Their contributions in various fields - from business and technology to the arts and social services - continue to make West Michigan a vibrant, welcoming place for all.
We are hosting the final two local units of government quadrant meetings of the year on Tuesday in Sand Lake and on Wednesday in Cascade Township. During these sessions, we will provide updates on County initiatives and listen to updates from your communities, while also addressing any questions you may have. We hope you will be able to join us!
Please let us know if you have articles, topics, or ideas that you would like to include in future newsletters.
- Al Vanderberg
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Commissioner Ponstein Re-Elected to MAC Board of Directors
At the regional caucuses during the Michigan Counties (MAC) Annual Conference, four members of the 16-member MAC Board of Directors were re-elected, signifying their ongoing commitment to the progress of counties.
In particular, we extend our congratulations to Commissioner Stan Ponstein. Having concluded his term during MAC's momentous 125th Anniversary year, Commissioner Ponstein now steps into the role of Immediate Past President. His leadership has been instrumental, and we look forward to his continued contributions in this well-deserved role.
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Shine Bright for Our Heroes: Operation Green Light Supports Veterans with Green Bulbs
Kent County Veterans Services (KCVS) will be activating Operation Green Light in early November to honor veterans.
During the week of November 6-12, businesses and residents are being asked to replace outdoor lights with green bulbs to support military veterans and to raise awareness about the resources available to them through the KCVS.
To learn more about Operation Green Light and to access a toolkit of resources to promote the cause, visit accesskent.com/greenlight.
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Volunteer with Kent County Community Action and Make A Difference
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves, join forces, and be a part of something truly amazing? Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just eager to make a difference, the Kent County Community Action is looking for passionate volunteers to lend a hand in its emergency food programs, where you can pack and distribute essential resources to those in need.
Here are the upcoming volunteer opportunities:
- October 20 - Food Distribution
- November 2 - Box Packing
- November 3 - Box Packing
- November 7 - Box Packing
- November 17 - Food Distribution
To view volunteer shifts for any of these dates and to sign up, visit here. We hope you will volunteer for this opportunity and help our community members, one meal at a time.
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Tonight's Domestic Violence Candlelight Vigil
Those who lost their lives to domestic violence from October 2022 - September 2023 will be honored tonight (Monday, Oct. 16) in a candlelight vigil on the Blue Bridge (GVSU side) in downtown Grand Rapids.
Community members are encouraged to begin gathering at 6 p.m. to view the art installation and the formal program will start at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to the candlelight vigil as the community comes together to honor the lives of those lost to domestic violence.
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Community Needs Assessment, Let Us Hear From You
Every three years, the Kent County Health Department conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) in collaboration with healthcare and community partners to better understand the current state of health and well-being in Kent County and to hear directly from residents about the issues that matter most to them.
The results from this survey will be used to help determine health priorities that will be addressed over the next three years, as well as provide important data for communities working to meet the needs of residents. To participate, please take this survey by October 31.
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Sign Up for the New Board of Commissioners Newsletter
The Kent County Board of Commissioners has a new monthly newsletter! The newsletter is an effort to keep residents informed on key County initiatives, upcoming meetings, and news that affect our community.
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Paws and Claws Update: New Operating Hours at the Animal Shelter
Starting today (Monday, Oct. 16), the Kent County Animal Shelter has the following new operating hours:
- Monday - 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Tuesday - 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Wednesday - 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
- Thursday - 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
- Friday - 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Saturday - 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Sunday - Closed
With the new operating hours, the shelter is hoping to make it even easier for you to find your forever furry friend! Just a reminder, adoptions conclude 45 minutes before closing, so you have plenty of time to meet your potential new family member.
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Join Our Team: We Are Hiring!
In case you missed it, our Sheriff's Office hosted its very first job fair last week! It was an amazing opportunity to spotlight the wide array of career openings in public safety. But that's not all – we also have numerous other positions available, ranging from public health to administrative roles.
Check here to explore all the exciting opportunities waiting for you, a family member or friend.
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