Redwing Hall of Fame Class of 2023
Congratulations to the Redwing Hall of Fame Class of 2023!
2023 Inductees:
• Emily Ann (Humphrey) Murray ’90
• Rex Knight ’59
• Tim Moore ’83
• Mark Williams ’73
• 86-87 Cheerleading Team
• 87-88 Cheerleading Team
Mary Wallen retires from MMDHD
Mary Wallen, Hearing & Vision Technician, has worked with Mid Michigan District Health Department for the past 32 years, and on September 1 she officially retired. Retirements always prove to be tough, because the loss of an invaluable asset is present, but so are the well wishes we send their way.
We thank Mary for the countless students she has helped in our area schools, providing a vital service and contributing to the success of future generations. If you see Mary, be sure to wish her well in her retirement.
SJPS welcomes new District Nurse
St. Johns Public Schools welcome Mrs. Seanneen Cary as the new District Nurse. Thanks to the funding provided by CCRESA, Mrs. Cary will be able to assist the district on Mondays through Wednesdays.
She has visited all of the buildings, and the schools are looking forward to working with her. Mrs. Cary’s presence is sure to enhance the quality of healthcare provided to students and staff.
Remember when? –Terry Carey honored with teams from 1949-51 in 2006
“There’s a whole lot of really excited ‘old’ guys around here.” So said St. Johns resident Paul Martis about the good news that Rodney B. Wilson High School football teams from 1949-51 have been selected for the Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame.
The teams will earn their spot in history during an induction ceremony set for June 22 at Gannon Gymnasium on the campus of Lansing Community College.
1949 Record: 8-0
First Row (left to right): Dick Howe, Wayne Cole, Arnold Jones, Dahl DeBoer, Ted Good, Dale Knight, Jerry Sana
Second Row (left to right): Marvel Zimmerman, Dick Teske, Doug Cook, John Flower, Gene Rennells, Paul Martis, Ed Martis
Third Row (left to right): Jack Eaton, Harvey French, Ralph Green, Carl Williston, Don Hebeler, Larry Karber
Fourth Row (left to right): Alan Smith, Dick Woodhams, Jack Dietrich, John Ballinger, Lloyd Wieber, Willis Hettler, Coach Carey
1950 Record: 8-0
First Row (left to right): Jerry Atkinson, John Flower, Dick Teste, Doug Cook, Ed Ernst, Carol Williston, Lloyd Wieber
Second Row (left to right): Dick Black, Bud Barnes, Clifford Snyder, Ed Martis, Larry Karber, Don Hebeler, Gaylord Snyder
Third Row (left to right): Myron Canning, David Conklin, Menlo Bailey, John Ballinger, Jack Dietrich, Bill Nobis, Dale Henning
Fourth Row (left to right): Francis Kaminski, Gordon Cash, Dick Nuechterlein, Alan Smith, Gerry Benedict, Doug Knight
Fifth Row (left to right): Coach Carey, Albert Sulka, C. G. Symmonds, Managers: Bob Orweller, Dick Hull
Team Mascot: Charles Ernst
1951 Record 8-0
First Row (left to right): Don Martis, Dale Henning, Keith Tiedt, Doug Cook, Gerry Benedict, Alan Smith, Jim Stiffler, David Conklin, Andy Hatta
Second Row (left to right): David Wakefield, Dick BUrns, Dennis Gallagher, Keith Barrett, Doug Knight, C. G. Symmonds, George Black, Jim Richards, Coach Carey, Coach Bennett
Third Row (left to right): Manager Dick Hull, Mark Eaton, David Puetz, Paul Buehler, Gordon Matter, Bruce Fitzpatrick, Larry Maier, Jim McNutt, Wayne Beaufore, Dick Hasselback, Larry Bissell, Gary Rice, Bruce Woodbury
Letters – Concerts in the Park say thanks for another successful season
Congratulations to Melinda. She won the gift basket on the final night of concerts in the park for the season last Wednesday.
What a season it’s been and we’re grateful for so many people who make these concerts a success.
First and foremost, thank you Bill Tennant as well as his committee of volunteers and people behind the scenes who work at the concerts every week!
Thank you RA Audio Production and sound engineers Matt and Chris for being so flexible every week with a different act coming in each week.
Thank you to the St. Johns Lions Club for another year of providing all the goodies to eat and drink for our attendees.
Thank you to each of our emcees every week who get the shows off and running !
Thank you to all of the sponsors who have helped make this performance Shell such a great entertainment venue and to the City of St. Johns and Clinton County Arts Council for their weekly sponsorship of all the concerts.
And last but absolutely not least – these concerts would not even go on if it were not for all the amazing and talented groups, singers and musicians who bring their show to St. Johns and leave it all there for us to enjoy.
See you next June !
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – 13 Friendliest Cat Breeds
courtesy of Janelle Leeson
Right now, 86.9 million U.S. households, or 66%, hare their home with at least one pet. If you’re looking to become one of those households or want to add another cat to your clowder, you might be wondering about the friendliest cat breeds.
Learning more about the common temperaments of different cat breeds can bring you closer to finding the right companion. Here are the most affectionate cat breeds.
1. Ragdoll
Did someone say friendly fluffball? Ragdolls—who adorably get their name for going floppy when picked up or cuddled—are undeniably one of the sweetest cats, says Stephen Quandt, a feline training and behavior specialist, and owner of Stephen Quandt Feline Behavior Associates, LLC.
Ragdolls are a docile bunch that prefer to gingerly bat at a toy mouse rather than attack at full gust. That, in addition to their adaptability, makes Ragdolls great companions for families with children and other pets.
You can expect to pay a premium for Ragdoll kittens from a reputable breeder. However, there’s always the chance of finding a blue-eyed cutie at your local shelter.
2. Maine Coon
Speaking of large, lovable cats, the Maine Coon rightfully earns the title as a gentle giant. In fact, the previous world record holder for the longest cat—a Maine Coon named Stewie—had so much love to give that he was a longtime therapy animal at a senior center.
But don’t fret: Bringing home a Maine Coon doesn’t necessarily mean you’re signing yourself (or anyone else) up for holding a 20-pound cat in your lap. Instead, Maine Coon cats are generally happy to cozy up beside you or tag along during your daily activities.
3. Persian
Persian cats tend to be so relaxed that they’re sometimes lovingly referred to as furniture with hair, Quandt says. Often reserved and wary of new people, socialization will go a long way in bringing out the best personality traits of this cuddly cat breed.
Favorite pastimes of this friendly cat include being petting, being groomed, and otherwise being doted on and swooned over.
4. Abyssinian
If a sweet cat with a spunky side sounds like your ideal companion, look no further than the amicable Abyssinian, or “Aby” for short. Resembling a miniature African wildcat, they’ve been around for centuries and may have even been the beloved cats ancient Egyptians worshiped. Courageous, curious, and keen on participating in every aspect of their humans’ lives, these athletic cats are as sociable as they are lovable.
5. Siamese
If being a conversationalist earns points in the friendly cat category, the Siamese ranks highly. They’re also sometimes called “meezers,” which is a term of endearment due to their low-toned but loud meow, Quandt says.
Of course, cats are individuals, so some Siamese cats may have less to say than others. And while you may hear this mischievous kitty before you spot them, Siamese cats are generally “Velcro cats” who become shadowlike to their favorite humans.
6. Sphynx
Their looks aren’t for everyone, Quandt says—but you won’t find another kitty that appreciates a warm cuddle quite like the nearly hairless Sphynx. They’re also chatty cats, likely sweet-talking the pup into cuddling, too.
Between playing with other pets and children of the house or socializing with guests, Sphynx cats will always make time for one-on-one bonding, such as during their routine baths.
7. Burmese
If you are looking for a loving and playful cat that is also good with other pets, the Burmese could be the kitty for you. The charming pup-like feline is smart and courageous—and was born to be your cuddling companion. Playing fetch more your speed? The talkative breed loves that, too.
8. Birman
Birman cats are the social butterflies of the feline realm. They boast high intelligence and curiosity, with a natural talent for making any household guest feel welcome. What’s more, their endearing “socked paws” perfectly complement their love for cozy evenings on the couch.
9. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are just as sweet as their looks suggest. They’re sure to steal the hearts of people of all ages, and are even known to befriend other furry family members.
However, be aware that the genetic mutation that causes their folded ears also causes a painful condition throughout their joints, says Quandt. Your bubbly BFF will be counting on you to notice small changes in their behavior that could indicate pain. The strong bond Scottish Folds are known to form with their humans will be your greatest asset in spotting and addressing any discomfort they might experience.
10. Exotic Shorthair
Hoping for a sweet Persian pal but without all the maintenance? Exotic Shorthairs have the friendly personality of a Persian but with a short, low-maintenance coat.
They are a playful breed, but also laid back enough to enjoy the company of other pets and children. And while Exotics are generally very affectionate, they don’t tend to demand your attention or be in your face about their needs.
11. Devon Rex
Known for showering their people with love rather than hair, the curly-coated Devon Rex is often considered to be hypoallergenic—or, at least, as close as you can get.
With their people-oriented nature, Devon Rex cats would prefer not to be left alone for extended periods. However, an even better idea than welcoming one of the nicest cat breeds into your home is adopting two: They’ll happily entertain one another when you’re busy or away from home.
12. Cornish Rex
Another curly-haired cutie, the Cornish Rex is a smart, affectionate, and playful companion. They’re perfect for all ages of humans with the proper introductions, and they don’t need a lot of maintenance to keep their curls looking fresh. In fact, too much grooming could cause their delicate hairs to break—which is good, because this curious cat has better things to do, like partake in a game of fetch or curl up with a warm human, cat, or pup.
13. The Domestic Short, Medium, and Longhair Cat
While technically not a breed, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the domestic long, medium, and shorthair cats. “Shelters and rescues all over the country are filled with friendly and loving cats who need a home,” Quandt says. “If you select for personality over appearance, you will be able to select a cat who will become a loving member of your household.”
Keep in mind that a kitten’s personality may not fully develop until they are 2–3 years old, Quandt says. While kittens may start to show their personalities around 1 year old, their true personality may not emerge until they reach social maturity.