SJHS alum screening film April 7
Matt Carlson has a short film in the upcoming Capital City Film Festival called THIS WILD ABYSS which is set to screen before the opening night feature on April 7 at 8 p.m. Carlson is the writer and producer of the film and also acts in it. He says he will be flying in from Los Angeles to attend.
Carlson went to high school in St. Johns, graduating in 1999. He then left for college at Northwestern where he received a BS in Theatre, followed by graduate school at the NYU Graduate Acting Program where he got an MFA in Acting.
Carlson is based in Los Angeles and focused primarily on screenwriting now, but he has had a long career as a stage actor both in New York and around the country.
“I obviously have a lot of family and friends still in St Johns,” Carlson says. “My high school orchestra teacher Bill Tennant and a lot of the folks I did theater with in high school are all going to attend the screening as well.
The film has won a number of awards already in its festival run, including Best Student Short at both the SCAD Savannah Film Festival and Magnolia Independent Film Festival, as well as the Director’s Choice for Most Inspirational Short Film at the Sedona Film Festival. It runs a little under 23 minutes in length.
Awards presented to Sheriff’s Department
Clinton County Sheriff Sean Dush presented 27 awards during the department’s annual awards ceremony held on March 22, honoring employees and civilians for their efforts in outstanding investigations and heroic actions in life saving. The awards ceremony featured awards from both 2021 and 2022 due to the last ceremony taking place just before the Covid pandemic in 2020.
Employee of the Year
The most prestigious award of the night went to Eva Wessel who was awarded the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office employee of the year. Sheriff Dush stated that “for the past 27 years Eva has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in every aspect of her job as Director of Food Services.” Sheriff Dush said that “Eva has shown exceptional leadership skills, going above and beyond in managing a team of 4 kitchen staff who serve an average of over 130,000 meals a year to inmates and had to endure some very tough times during the Covid pandemic and being short staffed.”
Life Saving Awards
Thirteen awards were given out to a civilian, corrections officers and deputy’s for life saving efforts during multiple different incidents that occurred over the past two years.
– On April 18, 2022 Corrections Officer Josh VanDeusen located an inmate hanging himself inside the jail and requested assistance. Sergeant Chad Bashore and Sergeant Chad Hallock responded to assist where the inmate was transported to the hospital and survived.
– On February 12, 2022 Deputy Sean Wetzel and Sergeant Dan Spitzley responded to a call of a male that was not conscious and not breathing. Deputy Wetzel arrived and scene and began life saving measures with both an AED and CPR. Deputy Wetzel administered one dose of Narcan and upon Sergeant Spitzley’s arrival he administered two additional doses. At this point the subject began to wake up and became responsive.
– On December 18, 2022 a Dewitt Township Officer was making a warrant meet with and officer from the Lansing Police Department. The Dewitt Township Officer later advised Central Dispatch that he had located an unknown white substance and it appeared that the LPD Officer was overdosing. Deputy Tanner Nelson and Deputy Collin Rennaker responded and after noting the symptoms the LPD Officer was experiencing two doses of Narcan were administered. They maintained observation of his condition until Lansing Fire Department arrived on scene.
– On December 18, 2022 a corrections officer was exposed to an unknown substance and Deputy Tanner Nelson transported them to the hospital due to the symptoms they were displaying. While at the hospital in the reception area Deputy Nelson administered one dose of Narcan after he noticed the Corrections Officer’s health declining. The Corrections Officer was then treated by hospital staff and later discharged.
– On July 13, 2022 Clinton County Central Dispatch broadcast a medical call of a male down in the parking lot of Walmart. Deputy Tracy Barber responded to the scene where she located Walmart employee Justin Schmidt performing CPR on the male subject. Due to quick actions and coordination of Deputy Barber and Justin Schmidt administering two person CPR the patient survived.
– On March 8, 2021 Central Dispatch received a call of a male who was unconscious and not breathing. Deputy Kyle Foerster arrived on scene and performed C.P.R. until the individual could be transported to the hospital.
On July 6, 2021 Corrections Officer Mike Fleischer was notified of and inmate being unresponsive. Officer Fleischer administered Narcan two times before the inmate regained consciousness. The inmate was then transported by EMS to the hospital.
– On October 15, 2021 Deputy Tracy Barber was notified of a subject in the lobby who was declining in health and then became unresponsive. Deputy Barber administered Narcan to the subject multiple times before they regained consciousness. The subject was then transported to the hospital by EMS.
Departmental Commendation
– On December 1, 2022 Deputy Matt Pettigrew conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for defective equipment which resulted in the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the two occupants being charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver for the 36 grams of methamphetamine that was found during a vehicle search.
– Sergeant Chad Hallock was recognized for taking on challenging responsibilities and by going above and beyond. Sergeant Hallock is a CPR instructor, corrections background investigator, transport officer, corrections division quartermaster and is a member of the new PEER support team. His efforts reflect a professional image of himself and the Office of the Clinton County Sheriff.
Traffic Safety Award
Sgt. Matt Dedyne, Dep. Greg Spitler, Dep John Vance, Dep. Cannon Stehlik, and Dep. Sean Wetzel were all recognized for their personal commitment and dedicated efforts in the area of Traffic Safety. In addition to their overall role in traffic enforcement, they are recognized in particular for their efforts in the areas of drunk driving, suspended drivers and seat belt compliance. Their excellence in the area of Traffic Safety has contributed greatly to the safety of the citizens of Clinton County.
Safe Driving Awards
These awards are given out every 5 years to employees who have not been involved in any on-duty related traffic crashes. Detective Sergeant Chris Crawford-20 years, Dep. Steve Bangs-10 years, Dep. Steve Naert-5 years, Dep. Tanner Nelson-5 years, and Dep. Sean Wetzel-5 years.
Grace Haven residents enjoy concert
When Grace Haven residents and friends celebrated St. Patrick’s Day, they also enjoyed a performance from some students from Jenn Parker’s St. Johns 8th Grade Orchestra.
Remember When – Ryan’s Roadhouse is proud to be smoke-free in 2010
Ryan Colthorp, owner, Ryan’s Roadhouse and Clinton County Commissioner and Mid-Michigan District Board of Health Vice Chair Paul E. McNamara
Ryan’s Roadhouse, located on E State Street in St. Johns, has been in Ryan Colthorp’s family for 41 years. In that time the Roadhouse has undergone many changes.
But of all the changes that have taken place at the Roadhouse over the years, the most recent change has left customers breathing a little easier because, as of December 26, 2009, Ryan’s Roadhouse went smoke-free.
So why did the Roadhouse go smoke-free now, when the entire state is scheduled to go smoke-free on May 1? According to Colthorp, the decision was made for a variety of reasons. “I’d been thinking about it for awhile and it just made financial sense, Colthorp said. “I knew having a smoke-free establishment would save on cleaning costs and I actually had customers requesting a smoke-free environment. I also did it for personal reasons; my mother died of lung cancer four years ago at the age of 54, so in a way it was a small tribute to her.”
Colthorp was somewhat concerned that the new no-smoking policy would hurt business, but he has found just the opposite to be true. “Customers have been very enthusiastic,” Colthorp said. “We’ve definitely seen an increase in the number of customers in our dining room as well as at the bar,” he continued. “I’ve actually had people come up to me and say ‘thank you.’ So no, going smoke-free has definitely not hurt business. I only wish I’d done it sooner!”
According to Board of Health Vice Chair and Clinton County Commissioner Paul E. McNamara, Colthorp is continually upgrading the facilities and atmosphere at the Roadhouse as well as giving to the community.
“I’m very appreciative to the people of St. Johns for supporting my business and I try to support the community in return,” Colthorp said. “All of the changes at the Roadhouse would not have been possible without the strong support of the community.”
The Mid-Michigan District Board of Health and staff wish to congratulate Ryan’s Roadhouse for choosing to be smoke-free prior to the May 1 state-wide ban. In recognition of his efforts in implementing a smoke-free policy that prohibits smoking in his establishment, Colthorp was recently presented with a certificate by McNamara which read, ‘Thank you for protecting your patrons and employees from the potential hazards associated with exposure to secondhand smoke.’
“Smoke-free policies decrease absenteeism, reduce housekeeping costs and maintenance costs, lower insurance rates and result in fewer smoking-related deaths,” said Kimberly Singh, Health Officer for MMDHD. “Smoke-free air is good for patrons, workers and business.”
Letters – Hicks House eligible for National Register
I’ve just received word that our most beautiful, incredible home is eligible for nomination by the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office to go before National Register of Historic Places for induction, as an important example of Second Empire architecture in the mid-Michigan area. I am beyond thrilled, and so excited for the possibility to share her resounding beauty and lasting quality with the NRHP to be recognized as a Historic Place.
We hope she will be accepted. Thanks to all for the support through the first part of this process.
And a special thank you to the Giesecke family for being her steward and care taker before us so that we could have this wonderful opportunity to celebrate the preservation of such incredible architecture and history
– Clair Elizabeth with Trevor Breen
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?
courtesy of Nicole LaForest, LVT, BSc, MPH
Cats, like other animals, need a lot of sleep to stay healthy. But sometimes it might seem like your cat spends more time asleep than he does awake. Why do cats sleep so much? And what factors affect your kitty’s sleeping habits? Here’s what to know about all those catnaps.
How Many Hours a Day Does a Cat Sleep?
Cats sleep between 12–16 hours a day. To humans, who need about seven hours of sleep during adulthood, that seems like a lot of time spent snoozing. But when you think about it, it’s not too surprising that cats spend so much time resting.
Hunting and exploring are energy-consuming activities. As predators, cats need a lot more rest than humans so they can remain alert and focused.
The amount of time spent sleeping can depend on a cat’s life stage. Kittens are still growing and developing, so they’re likely to need up to 20 hours of sleep per day, while adult cats need 15 hours or less. It’s common for senior cats (those at least 10 years old) to spend more time asleep than younger cats, as they’re typically less active due to health issues or mobility loss.
7 Reasons Why Cats Sleep
Ultimately, how much a cat sleeps varies from pet to pet. Breed, diet, and lifestyle make a difference in how much cats sleep, along with age. For example, cats who lack mental stimulation often become lethargic and sleepy as a way of filling the time.
Here are some common reasons your cat sleeps so much.
1. They’re Taking Catnaps
It’s believed that cats don’t really sleep for long stretches; rather, they take frequent catnaps that last 15–30 minutes. Catnaps allow your cat to rest his body and mind without falling into deep sleep. These catnaps allow felines to still react quickly to potential threats in their environment.
2. They’re Conserving Energy
Cats use a lot of energy when they hunt, play, or explore their environment—so it makes sense that they need to conserve energy by sleeping more. Your cat will be ready to tackle whatever activity he wants when he wakes up from a nap, whether that’s darting up a cat tree or chasing an interactive toy.
3. They’re on Their Own Time
Cats are crepuscular animals, which means they’re most active at dawn and dusk. If your cat seems to sleep all the time, it could be because he’s actually awake at night. To keep your kitty from waking you up at sunrise, make sure he has things to do while you’re in bed, such as scratching on a post or looking out a window.
4. They’re Bored
Sometimes cats sleep because they’re bored. While sleeping might not seem like a big deal, boredom can lead to other problematic behaviors in cats, such as destruction, constant meowing, and over-grooming.
To stay engaged and prevent boredom, cats need stimulation throughout the day in the form of vertical territory (cat trees, scratching posts, and cat shelves), puzzle feeders, and regular playtime with the family. Another cat can also be a good companion during times when you can’t give your cat a lot of attention—just make sure you introduce them properly.
5. They’re Stressed or Anxious
As with humans, cats are affected by stress. One way cats express stress or anxiety is by changing their sleep patterns. If they’re suddenly sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign they’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious about something in their environment. Cats can become stressed or anxious for many reasons, such as when new family members come into the house or if feeding times change.
6. They’re Sick
Certain illnesses and diseases can also make your cat sleep more than usual. These include:
– Hyperthyroidism
– Diabetes
– Kidney disease
– Heart disease
– Liver disease
– Cancer
Take your cat to the vet right away if you notice any other changes, such as loss of appetite or weight loss.
7. They’re Injured
Cats are agile creatures, often jumping from high places or running around at top speed. The downside is that this type of vigorous activity can sometimes result in muscle strains and torn ligaments. To rest and recuperate from these injuries, your cat might sleep more. Your cat might also sleep more if they have a wound or infection because their immune system is working overtime.
It’s also not uncommon for cats to develop arthritis and joint pain as they age. To relieve their discomfort, they may become lethargic and sleep more. A vet visit might be in order if your cat is lame or stiff. Your vet can diagnose the problem and come up with a treatment plan to help reduce pain and improve mobility so your cat can get back to napping.
Always take your cat to the vet as soon as possible when you notice signs of injury or that your cat is in pain. They can examine your pet and, if necessary, prescribe medication or suggest physical therapy to promote healing.
Is My Cat Sleeping Too Much?
If your is cat sleeping more than usual or if you notice any other behavioral changes with their sleeping habits, contact your veterinarian for advice. If your vet finds something wrong, they may suggest dietary changes, extra exercise, medications, supplements, or behavior modification training. But the fix could also be as simple as giving your kitty more toys and playtime.