the pulse dec 31 15

The PulseMt. Pleasants Weekly Community News

Vol. 1, No. 18

Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015

www.centralmichiganpulse.comwww.wearemtpleasant.com

MT. PLEASANT 2015 PHOTOS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ThePulse2UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

December 31st6:30p - 8:30p - New Years Eve Kids Gala @ Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum

8p - 1st Annual New Years Eve Party w/ Girls on the Run - Performance by Jedi Mind Trip @ Comfort Inn

2016

January 2nd9a - MPHS Wrestling - Oiler Invitational

12:30p - 2p - Jimmy Johns Lego Building Competition @ Veterans Memorial LibraryJanuary 3rd

2p - CRDL Cinema (Minions) @ Faith Johnston Memorial LibraryJanuary 4th

5:15p - Isabella County Human Rights Committee MeetingJanuary 5th

4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Boys Basketball vs. Heritage HS7p - Isabella County Board of Commissioners Organizational Meeting

7p - Mt. Pleasant Area Historical Meeting & presentation on Homesteading in Alaska @ COAJanuary 6th

7p - MPHS Hockey vs. LapeerJanuary 7th

6:30p - New Moon in Capricorn and Lunar Living @ VML7p - Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Mtg

January 8th8a - Isabella County Parks and Recreation opening day for 2016 camping reservations

4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Boys Basketball vs. Powers Catholic7:30p - CMU Hockey DIII vs. Aquinas College

9:30p - Crazy Babies (Ozzy Tribute Band) @ RubblesJanuary 9th

11a - Tarot Workshop @ VML12p - Under the Big Top Circus (CRDL) @ Finch Fieldhouse

7p - Crazy Babies (Ozzy Tribute Band) @ VFW HallJanuary 11th

7p - Mt. Pleasant City Commission MtgJanuary 12th

4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Boys Basketball vs. DeWitt HS5p - Mt. Pleasant Historic District Commission Mtg

6p - Teen Tuesday @ VML6p - Business After Hours @ CMU Mens Basketball Game

7:30p - Jeffrey Jacobs, Piano @ CMU Chamichian Hall (free)January 13th

7p - Michigan Screech Owls presentation w/ a live screech owl - Chippewa Valley Audubon Club mtg @ Vets Library Annex

7p - MPHS Hockey vs. Midland

Email your event to The Pulses community calendar at [email protected].

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 3ThePulseJanuary 14th

6p - LEGO Club @ VML6:30p - Fiber Guild Meeting @ UUFCM

7p - Isabella County Planning Commission MeetingJanuary 14th

10a - Mt. Pleasant TIFA/DDA MtgJanuary 15th

4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Boys Basketball vs. Bay City WesternJanuary 16th

9a - 7th Annual Frigid Doe Bowl disc golf tournament @ Deerfield Park12p - MPHS Bowling vs. Bay City Central / SVL @ Riverwood

3p - CMU Hockey DIII vs. U of M Flint6p-10p - Oilers Booster Winter Auction @ Finch Fieldhouse

January 17th1p - Food and Flicks for Families (The Jungle Book) @ Fremont Twp Library

January 19th11:30-2 - Genealogical Society of Isabella County mtg @ VML

12p-6p- Red Cross Blood Drive @ Sacred Heart Parish4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Boys Basketball vs. Arthur Hill HS

6p - Teen Tuesday @ Shepherd Community Library6:30p - Mid-Michigan Area Storytellers meeting @ VML

January 20th9a - Isabella County Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting

6p - Mt. Pleasant Citizens Academy Session #1 of 6January 21st

8a - Mt. Pleasant Downtown Development Board Mtg6p - All about Capricorn, Saturn & 10th House Astrology @ VML

7p - Hypnotist Chris Jones @ Plachta AuditoriumJanuary 22nd

2p - MPHS Solo and Ensemble @ MPHS Auditorium4p; 5:30p; 7p - MPHS Girls Basketball vs. Saginaw

6p - MPHS Hockey vs. CadillacJanuary 23rd

11a - Zoo to You @ VML12p-2p Its Snowtime! event @ Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum

3p - CMU Hockey DIII vs. Northwood7p - Music - Tinkers Folly @ Pleasant City Coffee

January 24th9a - Winter Warriors Snowmans half/10k/5k starts at OKellys7p - Trumpet Studio Recital @ CMU Chamichian Hall (free)

January 25thMt. Pleasant Daddy-Daughter Date night registration deadline

4p - MPHS Ski Team @ Snow Snake6p - Peace Making Ceremony @ MPHS

Email your event to The Pulses community calendar at [email protected].

POLITICS & MEETINGS ThePulse4

WHO TO CALL - REPRESENTATIONIsabella County Board of CommissionersD1 - George Green (Chair) (989) 588-4216 [Farwell (R)]D2 - John Haupt (989) 644-3390 [Mt. Pleasant (D)]D3 - Jerry Jaloszynski (989) 330-4890 [Shepherd (R)]D4 - Jim Horton (989) 621-1534 [Mt. Pleasant (R)]D5 - James Moreno (989) 773-5797 [Mt. Pleasant (D)]D6 - David Ling (Vice-Chair) (989) 773-7823 [Mt. Pleasant (D)]D7 - Michael Fisher (989) 860-1807 [Mt. Pleasant (D)]

House - 4th DistrictJohn Moolenaar (R)(989) 631-2552(202) 225-3561

Midland Office:200 East Main Street Suite 230Midland, MI 48640

Washington D.C. Office:117 Cannon House Off BldgWashington, DC 20515

SenateDebbie Stabenow (D)(517) 203-1760(202) 224-4822

Mid-Michigan Office:221 W. Lake Lansing Rd.Suite 100East Lansing, MI 48823

Washington D.C. Office:731 Hart Senate Office BldgWashington, DC 20510

SenateGary Peters (D)(517) 377-1508(202) 224-6221

Mid-Michigan Office:127 West Allegan StreetSuite 1810Lansing, MI 48933

Washington D.C. Office:724 Hart Senate Office BldgWashington, DC 20510

Isabella County Meetings:Board of Commissioners.............................(1st & 3rd Tues - 7:00p)Board Committee Work Sessions...............(1st & 3rd Tues - 4:30p)Parks & Recreation...................................................(1st Wed - 7:00p)Road Commission........................(2nd Th - 8:30a & 4th Th - 6:30p)Mt. Pleasant City Meetings:City Commission........................................(2nd & 4th Mon - 7:00p)Airport Advisory Board............................................(2nd Th - 5:30p)Downtown Development Board...............................(3rd Th - 8:00a)Historic District Commission..............................(2nd Tues - 5;00p)Parks & Recreation..................................................(4th Tues - 7:00p)Planning Commission................................................(1st Th - 7:00p)TIFA & DDA*...........................................................(2nd Th - 10:00a) *Tax Increment Finance Authorities & Downtown Development AuthorityZoning Board of Appeals.......................................(4th Wed - 7:00p)Township Board Meetings:Broomfield Twp......................................................(3rd Mon - 7:00p)Chippewa Twp.........................................................(1st Mon - 7:00p)Coe Twp..................................................................(2nd Mon - 7:00p)Coldwater Twp........................................................(3rd Mon - 7:00p)Deerfield Twp..........................................................(3rd Mon - 7:00p)

WHEN TO GO - MTGS

Governor - Rick Snyder (R)(517) 373-4000Mail to: P.O. Box 30013Lansing, MI 48909

House - 99th DistrictKevin Cotter (R) - Speaker(517) 373-1789Mail to: P.O. Box 30014Lansing, MI 48909

Senate - 33rd DistrictJudy Emmons (R)(517) 373-8661Mail to: P.O. Box 30036Lansing, MI 48909

STATE

COUNTY

NATION

MT. PLEASANTMt. Pleasant Board of CommissionersMayor - Jim Holton (989) 817-4288 [member since 2006]Vice Mayor - Rick Rautanen (989) 944-5383 [member since 2012]Commissioner - Jon Joslin (989) 772-7381 [member since 2001]Commissioner - Tony Kulick (989) 289-7098 [member since 2014]Commissioner - Kathleen Ling (989) 773-7823 [member since 2008]Commissioner - Matthew Sous (989) 714-9253 [member since 2013]Commissioner - Mike Verleger (989) 621-2384 [member since 2015]

Township Board Meetings (cont.):Denver Twp......................................................(3rd Th - 6:00p)Fremont Twp.................................................(4th Tues - 7:00p)Gilmore Twp................................................(2nd Wed - 7:00p)Isabella Twp...................................................(1st Mon - 7:00p)Lincoln Twp.................................................(2nd Tues - 7:30p)Nottawa Twp.................................................(1st Mon - 7:00p)Rolland Twp.................................................(2nd Tues - 7:00p)Sherman Twp................................................(3rd Mon - 8:00p)Union Twp.........................................(2nd & 4th Wed - 7:00p)Vernon Twp...................................................(1st Mon - 6:30p)Wise Twp..........................................................(3rd Th - 7:00p)Rosebush, Shepherd, Lake Isabella Meetings:Rosebush Village Board.............................(2nd Mon - 7:00p)Shepherd Village Council.................(1st & 3rd Mon - 7:00p)Shepherd Planning Commission.................(1st wed - 7:00p)Shepherd Board of Appeals........................(meets by request)Lake Isabella Village Council......................(3rd Tues - 7:00p)Lake Isabella Planning Commission.........(2nd Tues - 7:00p)Lake Isabella Zoning Board.........................(4th Tues - 7:00p)Lake Isabella (LIPOA).................................(2nd Wed - 7:00p)

HELP & SUPPORT 5ThePulse

National Suicide Prevention Line1 (800) 273-8255

www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

24/7 Crisis HotlineIsabella County

1 (989) 772-2918

Winter Shelter

The Isabella County Restoration House provides a rotating shelter open every night from Sunday, No-vember 1st, through March 2016. Shelter seekers must check in nightly at the Unitarian Universalist Fellow-ship, 319 S. University (next door to the public library, downtown Mt. Pleasant) between 4:30-5:45 p.m. Transportation is provided to the shelter each night. A hot meal and warm bed will be ready. Transportation from the shelter to the Soup Kitchen is provided each morning.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings

Alano Club 1201 N. Fancher (989) 772-4955Mondays thru Fridays - 9a, 12p, 5:30p, 8pSaturdays & Sundays - 9a, 11a, 5:30p, 8p

Other Meeting LocationsCentral Michigan Christian Church3433 S. Lincoln Rd. - Mondays - 7p

First Presbyterian Church1250 Watson Rd. - Tues - 7p & Wed - 8p

St. Marys Parish1405 S. Washington - Wednesdays - 12p

Westlawn Church of Christ (Shepherd)222 Dearing Drive - Thursdays - 7p

Al-Anon Meetings

Alano Club 1201 N. Fancher (989) 772-4955Sundays 6:30p - Mondays 7p - Fridays 7p

Behavioral Health 2800 S. Shepherd Rd.Tuesdays 5p

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings

Wesley Foundation 1400 S. WashingtonTuesdays 6:30p

First United Methodist Church 400 S. Main St.Thursdays 6:30p

24-hour Alcoholics Anonymous Hot-line1-800-821-3014

Additional Community Meetings

Refuge Recovery @ Saginaw Chippewa Behavioral Health (2800 S. Shepherd) - Wednesdays 6:30p

Gamblers Anonymous @ First United Methodist Church (400 S. Main) - Mondays 6:30p

Additional Community Resources

Community Mental Health 301 S. Crapo(989) 772-5938

1016 Detox 2885 Health Parkway(989) 775-0604

Listening Ear 107 Illinois St.(989) 386-2774

Mt. Pleasant Police Department 804 E. High St.(989) 779-5100 (FOR EMERGENCY DIAL 911)

CITY NEWS ThePulse6City Christmas Tree Pickup

City to pickup Christmas trees Dec. 28 Jan. 8 The city of Mt. Pleasant will begin picking up

Christmas trees on Monday, December 28th for anyone looking to remove their tree within a few days of celebrating.

The collection process will continue for two straight weeks, ending on Friday, January 8th. Dis-carded Christmas trees will only be picked up on weekdays, and their is no cost for this service.

All residents who wish to have their tree discard-ed by the city, including those with alley-side trash pickup, should place their Christmas trees on the curb for city pickup.

Christmas trees should be free of debris, so please

remove plastic bags and tinsel. When placing your tree curbside, the base of the tree should be facing toward the street.

According to the city, tree remnants are pro-

cessed through a wood chipper; wreaths cannot be processed through the chipper and will not be collected.

The city does not, at this time, offer free removal

of Festivus poles or Channukah bushes.

For more information, please call the City of Mt. Pleasant Division of Public Works at 989-779-5401

The Pulse

The Pulse is published weekly in digital edition on Thursdays

Community Contributions are welcomeDeadline: Tuesdays at Noon

Editor/Publisher : Steve CovieoPulse Photo Galleries at: WeAreMtPleasant.com

Email us at: [email protected]

Central Michigan Pulse, llc623 E. BroadwayMt. Pleasant, MI 48858Phone (989) 444-9121Fax (989) 317-8777

Office Hours:Tues & Wed 10-12 & 1-4

Mailing address: P.O. Box 674Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804

www.centralmichiganpulse.com

(989) 224-1500Appointment only

Trusted. Insightful. Experienced.

Business Estate Planning Probate Real Estate

(989) 317-9600

[email protected]

64649 Sign.indd 1 9/23/2015 4:06:29 PM

HAVE SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The next Mt. Pleasant city commission meeting is January 11th at 7:00 p.m.City commission meetings are open to the public; you are welcome to attend.

EDITORIAL 7ThePulseAs editor of The Pulse I am very grateful for the encouragement and support we have received since launching

earlier this year. I want to personally thank you all for inspiring us to continue moving forward with more local news coverage.

What started several months ago as a simple idea to create a local newspaper that allows everyone in the commu-nity an equal opportunity to participate and contribute has become the weekly paper that you are currently reading.

My hope is that 2016 will see The Pulse continue to grow and define its course even more clearly. We are not your typical newspaper, nor do we ever plan to be. Instead, we strive to deliver hyperlocal news stories via a deeply visual documentary-style approach.

This edition, our very first end-of-the-year photo edition, is both our way of introducing readers to the depth of our papers local photography as well as taking readers through a visual tour of many stories from this past year that stand to represent our current coverage.

The only goal I set for 2015 was to see if we could indeed produce a paper on a weekly basis. Now that weve found that not only can we do so, but we can also bring coverage to some local sports, events, and stories that would other-wise be left uncovered, my goal for 2016 is to get the paper to become financially stable.

The first step toward fiscal responsibility was to put all of our energies into creating a digital weekly paper that would allow anyone with a computer and internet access to read, download, and print the paper every week for free. It was a decision that was difficult, but necessary.

The next step will be to create a progressive advertising campaign, that we hope will provide the bulk of the reve-nue required to produce weekly editions throughout 2016, approximately $63,000.

As a small paper that is completely run by community volunteers, we need your help to make 2016 a success.

Ways you can help The Pulse:1. Advertise with us.2. Show support - Buy an at-will digital subscription at www.centralmichiganpulse.com. (For 2016 this is also how

you can be sure to get the latest edition of The Pulse emailed directly to you when it is available.)3. Like a picture? Purchase the print or digital download from our photography site at www.wearemtpleasant.com 4. Like us on Facebook & help spread the word about us by actively liking, sharing, and commenting on our posts.5. Help keep our weekly community calendar up to date by sending us event information.6. Write us an email about a news story, an idea you might have, or pictures that youve taken around town for us

to include in The Pulse.7. Get involved! As a community paper we rely on the community to write and inspire ideas about the Mt. Pleasant

area. Have an idea for a column youd like to try? Great, lets talk about it. Have a suggestion on how we can reach more people with our news? Excellent, wed love to listen and learn. Know an activity that isnt getting the coverage it deserves? Tell us about it.

Help us become a better paper, and a better representation of our community every week.

Thank you, and please enjoy our end-of-the-year special photo edition showcasing some of The Pulses favorite and most popular photographs from 2015. Heres to Mt. Pleasant having its best year ever in 2016!

2015 PHOTO SPECIAL ThePulse8

WE ARE MT. PLEASANT 9ThePulse


See more Mt. Pleasant pictures at www.wearemtpleasant.com


New System Aids in Stopping Drugged DrivingThe mission of the Mt. Pleasant Police Department is to establish partnerships within the community, to implement new ideas and concepts and to maintain a safe environment for all. The DAX Video Recorder System helps with every facet of this mission through aiding police in removing drugged drivers from the road. The system examines eyes and provides

a firsthand view of what an investigator sees while examining a subject during an evaluation. Video recordings may be presented as evidence in court.

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department has the only officer in Isabella County qualified as a Drug Recognition Expert. Support is provided to the Michigan State Police, Central Michigan University Police, Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police, and the Isabella County Sheriffs Department. The DAX Recording System benefits all Isabella County law enforcement.

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department received a grant from two community impact funds of the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation. The Jane McNamara and Louise Williams Fund, as well as the Isabella Bank Director Memorial Fund, assisted in purchasing the DAX Video Recording System. DAX Video Evidence System was installed and introduced. The new system will help keep the citizens of Isabella County safer on the roads.

Visit mpacf.org for more information

ENTERTAINMENT 37ThePulse

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort - Upcoming Events

January 8th - Fistful of Dollars Murder Mystery DinnerJanuary 29th - Dwight Yoakam wsg Pam TillisFebruary 4th-7th - Soaring Eagle Open XI & WPBA Masters 2016February 13th-14th - The Price is Right LiveFebruary 18th - Clueless Murder Mystery DinnerFebruary 20th - Cheech & ChongFebruary 26th-27th - Ram Trucks Snocross NationalMarch 4, 2016 - Tracy MorganMay 21, 2016 - Lewis Black

Staples Family Concert Hall - Upcoming Events

January 14th - Faculty Artist Andrew Spencer, percussionJanuary 19th - LaToya Lain, mezzo-sopranoJanuary 21st - Guest Artist Gabriela Martinez, pianoJanuary 26th - Guest Artists WEE TrioJanuary 28th - Faculty Artist Mark Cox, tubaJanuary 31st - CMU String Day Guest Artist Hai Xin Wu, violinFebruary 2nd - Faculty Artist Adrienne Wiley, pianoFebruary 4th - Faculty Jazz Combo

ENTERTAINMENT ThePulse38MAC TV Network Channels Schedule

SUNDAY1:00 AM IWE Battlezone TV - Wrestling 191-MAC13:13 AM Isabella County Work Session 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov9:00 AM Faith Community Church 191-MAC19:00 AM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 9 AM 187-MAC210:00 AM Grace Church Live 191-MAC111:00 AM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 11 AM 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM AUMC 191-MAC11:00 PM Trinity Church 187-MAC22:00 PM U. Tshp Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov3:00 PM Clare Ment. Health - EMT 191-MAC13:00 PM Sacred Heart Parish 187-MAC25:00 PM AUMC 187-MAC25:00 PM MP Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov7:00 PM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 11 AM 191-MAC17:00 PM Grace Church 187-MAC27:50 PM Clare Ment. Health - Mindful... 191-MAC18:00 PM MP Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov9:00 PM Faith Community Church 187-MAC29:30 PM Trinity Church 191-MAC19:39 PM FCC Promo 2 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

MONDAY7:00 AM Trinity Church 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov8:00 AM Democracy Now 191-MAC19:00 AM Faith Community Church 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC29:27 AM UT Board of Trustees 188-Gov11:00 AM Christian Music Videos 191-MAC112:00 PM News Central 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM A2 to TC Train Presentation 191-MAC11:00 PM News Central 187-MAC21:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC12:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC22:30 PM Volleyball - Alma vs Shepherd 187-MAC24:00 PM What Should I Be... - Farmer 191-MAC14:00 PM News Central 187-MAC25:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC15:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC26:00 PM Christian Music Videos 191-MAC16:00 PM News Central 187-MAC26:30 PM Art Review 187-MAC27:30 PM Alma String Fall Concert 191-MAC17:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC28:00 PM Football - Ithaca vs Shepherd 187-MAC210:00 PM Democracy Now 191-MAC110:00 PM Volleyball - St Louis vs Ithaca 187-MAC210:50 PM Football Highlights - STL v ITH 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

TUESDAY12:54 AM MAC TV Zombie Film Fest. 14 191-MAC17:00 AM Trinity Church 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov8:00 AM Democracy Now 191-MAC19:00 AM Faith Community Church 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC2

WEDNESDAY12:39 AM IWE Battlezone TV - Wrestling 191-MAC16:00 AM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 11 AM 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov8:00 AM Democracy Now 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC210:00 AM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC110:00 AM U. Tshp Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov11:00 AM Sacred Heart Parish 191-MAC112:00 PM News Central 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov12:30 PM Clare Ment. Health - EMT 191-MAC11:00 PM News Central 187-MAC21:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC12:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC22:00 PM UT Board of Trustees 188-Gov2:49 PM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 9 AM 191-MAC13:00 PM Dueling Pianos (Clean) 187-MAC23:57 PM Sacred Heart Parish 191-MAC14:00 PM News Central 187-MAC25:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC15:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC25:15 PM What Should I Be... - Farmer 191-MAC15:30 PM A2 to TC Train Presentation 191-MAC16:00 PM News Central 187-MAC26:30 PM Christian Music Videos 191-MAC16:30 PM Art Review 187-MAC27:05 PM Alma Strings Fall Concert 191-MAC17:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC28:00 PM Christian Music Videos 191-MAC1

10:00 AM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC111:00 AM Clare Ment. Health - Mindful... 191-MAC112:00 PM News Central 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM Clare Ment. Health - Yoga 191-MAC11:00 PM News Central 187-MAC21:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC12:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC22:00 PM UT Planning Commission 188-Gov3:00 PM Veterans Update 191-MAC13:56 PM AUMC 191-MAC14:00 PM News Central 187-MAC25:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC15:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC25:00 PM MP Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov5:30 PM Clare Ment. Health - Music Ther 191-MAC16:00 PM News Central 187-MAC26:30 PM Art Review 187-MAC27:00 PM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 9 AM 191-MAC17:00 PM 15 HF: Alma Mid. Jazz Band 187-MAC27:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC27:45 PM The Vanisher 187-MAC28:00 PM Volleyball - Alma vs Shepherd 187-MAC28:00 PM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov9:10 PM Football Highlights - STL v ITH 187-MAC29:30 PM Stupid Laws 187-MAC210:00 PM Democracy Now 191-MAC110:00 PM FMP - Live & Lessons 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

ENTERTAINMENT 39ThePulseMAC TV Network Channels Schedule

THURSDAY12:54 AM MAC TV Zombie Film Fest. 14 191-MAC17:00 AM Trinity Church 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov8:00 AM Democracy Now 191-MAC19:00 AM Faith Community Church 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC210:00 AM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC110:00 AM UT Planning Commission 188-Gov10:30 AM Veterans Update 191-MAC111:00 AM Clare Ment. Health - Music Ther 191-MAC112:00 PM Clare Ment. Health - Yoga 191-MAC112:00 PM News Central 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM Disability Network 191-MAC11:00 PM News Central 187-MAC21:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC12:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC23:01 PM Uncle Ducky 191-MAC13:49 PM AUMC 191-MAC14:00 PM News Central 187-MAC25;00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC15:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC26:00 PM News Central 187-MAC26:06 PM Alma City Commission 191-MAC16:30 PM Art Review 187-MAC27:00 PM Democracy Now 191-MAC17:00 PM 15 HF: Alma Mid. Jazz Band 187-MAC27:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC27:45 PM The Vanisher 187-MAC28:00 PM Volleyball - Alma vs Shepherd 187-MAC28:30 PM H.A.T.S. 191-MAC19:00 PM Isabella County Reg Meeting 191-MAC19:10 PM Football Highlights - STL v ITH 187-MAC29:30 PM Stupid Laws 187-MAC210:00 PM Clare Ment. Health - Mindful... 191-MAC110:00 PM FMP - Live & Lessons 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

FRIDAY1:00 AM IWE Battlezone TV - Wrestling 191-MAC13:13 AM Isabella County Work Session 191-MAC17:00 AM Trinity Church 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov8:00 AM Democracy Now 191-MAC19:00 AM Sacred Heart Parish 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC210:02 AM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC112:00 PM News Central 187-MAC212:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM News Central 187-MAC21:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC1

SATURDAY12:54 AM MAC TV Zombie Film Fest. 14 191-MAC17:00 AM Mt. Pleasant Planning Comm. 188-Gov9:00 AM Uncle Ducky 191-MAC19:00 AM Sports Attack 187-MAC29:30 AM Trinity Church 191-MAC110:00 AM U. Tshp Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov10:50 AM Sacred Heart Parish 191-MAC111:52 AM Clare Ment. Health - Music Ther 191-MAC112:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov1:00 PM Alma City Commission 191-MAC11:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC22:00 PM Clare Ment. Health - Yoga 191-MAC12:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC22:00 PM UT Planning Commission 188-Gov2:30 PM Volleyball - Alma vs Shepherd 187-MAC23:00 PM Veterans Update 191-MAC14:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC25:00 PM Dueling Pianos (Clean) 187-MAC25:00 PM MP Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov5:30 PM H.A.T.S. 191-MAC16:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC26:30 PM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 9 AM 191-MAC17:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC27:45 PM The Vanisher 187-MAC28:00 PM Clare Ment. Health- EMT 191-MAC18:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov9:30 PM Stupid Laws 187-MAC210:00 PM Faith Community Church 191-MAC110:00 PM 15 HF: Chelsea House - Sat. 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

Subject to change - Visit www.mactvnetwork.org for most up-to-date schedule

8:00 PM Football - Ithaca vs Shepherd 187-MAC28:30 PM Trinity Church 191-MAC110:00 PM Democracy Now 191-MAC110:00 PM Volleyball - St Louis vs Ithaca 187-MAC210:50 PM Football Highlights - STL v ITH 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

2:00 PM Art Review 187-MAC22:00 PM UT Board of Trustees 188-Gov3:00 PM Isabella County Reg Meeting 191-MAC13:00 PM Dueling Pianos (Clean) 187-MAC23:50 PM What Should I be... Farmer 191-MAC14:00 PM Uncle Ducky 191-MAC14:00 PM News Central 187-MAC24:30 PM Christian Music Videos 191-MAC15:00 PM Pleasant Chat 191-MAC15:00 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC25:00 PM MP Zoning Board of Appeals 188-Gov5:30 PM Alma Strings Fall Concert 191-MAC16:00 PM News Central 187-MAC26:30 PM Mt. Pleasant FUMC 11 AM 191-MAC16:30 PM Art Review 187-MAC27:30 PM Sports Attack 187-MAC28:00 PM AUMC 191-MAC18:00 PM Football - Ithaca vs Shepherd 187-MAC28:00 PM Mt. Pleasant City Commission 188-Gov9:10 PM A2 to TC Train Presentation 191-MAC110:00 PM Democracy Now 191-MAC110:00 PM Volleyball - St Louis vs Ithaca 187-MAC210:50 PM Football Highlights - STL v ITH 187-MAC211:00 PM Grace Church 191-MAC1

OUTDOORS ThePulse40As we wind down 2015, and look toward 2016, its a popular practice to

reflect on the closing year and take a look at the highlights, or the lowlights, of the past twelve months. We reflect on what was, and speculate on what

will be. And with the dawning of the new year, it is also popular to set goals, unrealistic, unattainable, well intentioned goals. So, without further ado, I

present my top 10 memories of 2015 and my New Year Resolution for 2016.

10. I purchased my own rifle. After borrowing a rifle from my brother for three seasons, I finally pulled

the trigger (see what I did there) and bought one. 9. I bought a kayak.

Actually, I bought two. They were inexpensive, entry level sport kayaks. They are very stable, and perfect for getting me onto the waters I want to fish.

8. I bought a truck.This might not seem like an outdoorsman purchase, but how am I sup-

posed to bring home the venison, or get my kayaks to the lakes?

7. I saw a wild bear. An old hockey saying is, You cant score if you dont

shoot. And when it comes to seeing things in the wild, you arent going to encounter them if youre not where they are. I was on my way to fish, and I saw a large black bear sitting next to the road. Id never witnessed a bear in the wild, only

in a zoo. 6. I hand fed wild deer.

There are places where the deer are used to humans, and this summer I visited one of those places, and got to feed a wild deer from my hand. This was not a deer farm, and

the deer were not in a pen. They were wild. The deer are so used to human activity, they walk up to you, looking for

handouts.5. I didnt go duck hunting.

This might seem like a strange highlight, but I had a good laugh about it. I wrote about my adventures of opening

weekend back in October. That was the weekend I decided to go fishing, and wound up in some hunters decoys. Look

back through the archives. 4. I caught my first keeper pike.

I didnt start targeting pike until this summer, so the fact that I caught my first keeper in the same season doesnt sound like a big deal. But a first is a first, and mine came

this past fall on a small lake in Clare County. 3. I started writing for The Pulse.

Look, when it comes to writing an outdoor column, Im the least qualified. And for those who read my first article, thats the point. Im writing from a beginners perspective, and trying to pass along what Ive learned. So Im grateful

The Accidental Outdoorsman - Follow on Twitter @pulseoutdoors50

By KYLE HOWARD

to the editor of this paper for giving me that chance.2. I shot an opening day buck!

What hunter doesnt want to take a buck on opening day? True, mine wasnt a wall hanger, but its my trophy, and

thats all that counts. So, Ive scratched that itch, and now I can focus on taking my first mountable buck.

1. I did all of the above, and more!We live in the greatest nation on the face of the planet.

Yeah, I know we have problems, but so does every nation. And I wouldnt trade living here for anywhere else! And

that goes for the great state of Michigan, too.

This state is a wonderful place to live if youre an out-doorsman. We have hunting seasons for every game animal

imaginable. We have fish by the boat load (another pun) and we even allow trapping.

If youre not into hunting and fishing, there is still plenty to do in the great outdoors. We have miles of shore line,

both inland lakes, as well as the Great Lakes. We have snowmobile trails, and ski hills. There are golf courses,

campgrounds and hiking trails. And we have some of the greatest state, and national, parks in the United States. All

thats required is you get out there and enjoy them.

So, my 2016 resolution is this, go and do more of the same. I vow to hunt more, fish more, camp more, and do

more in the great Michigan outdoors than I did in 2015. After all, in order to score, you first have to be in the game.

BUSINESS LAW 41ThePulseIndependent Contractors or Employees

Pat,

How can I tell if the people working for me are independent contractors or em-ployees?

The IRS requires business owners to correctly determine whether individuals providing services are employees or independent contractors. If your business has employees it must withhold income taxes, withhold and pay Social Security and Medicare taxes, and pay unemployment tax on wages paid to an employee. If your business uses independent contractors, it does not generally have to with-hold or pay any taxes on payments to independent contractors. In determining whether the person providing service is an employee or an independent contrac-tor, all information that provides evidence of the degree of control and indepen-dence must be considered. Facts that provide evidence of the degree of control and independence fall into three categories:By PAT GALLAGHER

1. Behavioral: Does the company control or have the right to control what the worker does and how the worker does his or her job?

2. Financial: Are the business aspects of the workers job controlled by the payer? (these include things like how worker is paid, whether expenses are reimbursed, who provides tools/supplies, etc.)

3. Type of Relationship: Are there written contracts or employee type benefits (i.e. pension plan, insurance, vaca-tion pay, etc.)? Will the relationship continue and is the work performed a key aspect of the business?You must weigh all these factors when determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor. Some factors may indicate that the worker is an employee, while other factors indicate that the worker is an indepen-dent contractor. There is no magic or set number of factors that makes the worker an employee or an indepen-dent contractor, and no one factor stands alone in making this determination. Also, factors which are relevant in one situation may not be relevant in another. The keys are to look at the entire relationship, consider the degree or extent of the right to direct and control, and finally, to document each of the factors used in coming up with the determi-nation. You can ask the IRS for a determination on status see IRS Form SS-8, Determination of Worker Status for Purposes of Federal Employment Taxes and Income Tax Withholding. Byron P. (Pat) Gallagher, Jr.Gallagher Law Firm2001 Abbot RoadEast Lansing, MI [email protected]

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