Fowler students join Salmon in the Classroom
Seventh graders from Most Holy Trinity released Chinook Salmon as part of the Michigan DNR’s Salmon in the Classroom Program. The salmon, which 250 Michigan schools receive as small eggs in October, are raised in the classroom all year until their spring release.
More than 22,000 students in Michigan participate in this hands-on program which teaches kids about Great Lakes ecosystems and fisheries management. Salmon in the Classroom – www.mi.gov/sic
Take a look at the new St. Vincent dePaul store
by Maralyn Fink
The Society of St. Vincent DePaul – St. Joseph Conference was organized in November of 1942 at the request of Fr. Dion – Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Monsignor Sheridan from Flint visited St. Joseph Parish, along with a group of men from the Lansing Diocese on November 11, 1942. The Conference was officially recognized by the International Confederation of the Society of Saint-Vincent de Paul through a letter of aggregation dated September 9, 1946.
The Conference recently completed 75 years of service to this community in November of 2017. Over the years they have provided over a million dollars in assistance to the housing, food, clothing, and other basic needs of people of Clinton County. The Conference continues to provide many forms of assistance to people in the Clinton County community. Members of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul (Vincentians) work in teams to call on individuals and families in need. Their work is quiet and discreet, confidentially aiding families in need.
In the spring of 1996, the St. Joseph Conference was asked by Hugh Banninga – former Volunteer Coordinator with the Clinton County Department of Social Service Office, to take over its Clothing Center located in downtown St. Johns.
After considerable thought and prayers, John Thelen (past president and current Executive Director) stated, “we decided if we don’t take this over, who will?” St. Vincent officially began operating the St. Vincent de Paul Store on June 1, 1996. The late Vincentian Arlene Lounds played a vital role in organizing the conference’s efforts in making this a successful endeavor. Arlene worked tirelessly on a volunteer basis to manage the St. Vincent dePaul Store. After Arlene’s death, Dolores Houser and Pat Snyder stepped up to build on the foundation that Arlene began, recruiting other volunteers to operate the store.
As time has passed, the store moved from the head of Clinton Avenue (where Dominos is located) down to the corner of Clinton and Higham Streets (where Unique Reflections is located), and again to the location of the Basic Needs Center. In 2012 they moved to their current location in the Southpoint Mall at 1009 S. US-27 in St. Johns.
To meet the current needs of families in the area, the board decided to explore a larger facility in the Southpoint Mall to be able to generate the needed resources to serve those in need. John Thelen was the Conference President at that time and evaluated the property at the Southpoint Mall in the summer of 2011.
The downtown location was approximately 2,200 square feet. The Southpoint Mall location was 8,400 square feet. Thelen recalls a couple of board members saying, “what are you going to do with all that space?”
After the Southpoint Mall space was renovated by the Clinton County R.E.S.A. Building Trades Program, St. Vincent’s moved to the mall location in January of 2012.
The Clinton County community continues to support the ministry by their donations of gently used clothing, furniture and household items. As a result, the Southpoint Mall location soon became too small. Joseph Tomczyk, current St. Vincent de Paul President, solicited board support to expand the current location by an additional 4,200 square feet. The additional space was renovated by the morning and afternoon classes of the Clinton County R.E.S.A. Building Trades Program under the direction of Instructor-Ross Pope. The additional square footage has provided more retail space, client office and much needed storage space.
The Thrift Store is for all people looking for a bargain on good quality (in some cases new) clothing, furniture, household items, and other sundry merchandise. Stop in and see what St. Johns undiscovered boutique has to offer. The St. Vincent de Paul Store is blessed with donated items from the community. Whether shopping for a bargain or donating your gently used merchandise, you become a partner in the ministry of serving others.
The St. Vincent Store is operated by four paid staff, over 100 active store volunteers, a dozen people that pick up furniture items from donors and 30 Vincentians that are available to meet with clients seeking emergency assistance.
Last year, the St. Vincent dePaul client assistance office fielded over 900 calls and had an impact in helping 477 families obtain over $168,000 of emergency financial assistance.
St. Vincent de Paul collaborates with several area churches, the Basic Needs Center, Capital Area Community Services, Beacon of Hope (First Baptist Church), Department of Health and Human Services, Safe Center, Caring and Sharing Family Health Services, Pathways to Better Health through Mid-MI District Health Department, Michigan Works and Housing Services Mid-Michigan.
St. Vincent dePaul Store hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
If you are interested in volunteering to support this ministry, please call John Thelen at 989 292-7057.
A Look Back – Meals on Wheels Committee
by Barry Clark Bauer
Left to right: Rev. Hugh Banninga, unidentified, unidentified, Nancy Wells, unidentified (Pat Sills?), and Paul McNamara.
This was the Meals on Wheels managing committee sometime in the 1970s. The Meals on Wheels program still operates out of the Senior Center at 201 E. Walker St. in St. Johns.
A Look Back Update – Main Street U.S.A.
by Barry Clark Bauer
This photo was taken in 1974 during the St. Johns High School parade in downtown St. Johns. It’s interesting to note that this was the year before the Steel Hotel (tallest building in the back) was gutted by fire.
On the right, east, are the Treasure Chest and Western Auto which no longer exist. On the left, west, are the D & C Store, E. MacKinnon & Son, and Holden Reid, they are also gone.
Looks like the cast members of a high school play were mingling with the crowd. The play that year was Anastasia.
Bennie and Jessie’s Pet Info – 9 Natural Home Remedies for Your Dog
When your dog is feeling under the weather, your vet should be the first person you call. Seemingly minor symptoms may be indicative of a serious underlying medical condition, in which case do-it-yourself remedies could be ineffective or cause more harm than good.
But if your dog has a minor ailment, such as dry skin or a mild upset stomach, some home remedies can be quite beneficial. Here are nine simple, vet-approved home remedies that can provide relief for your canine companion.
1. Vitamin E Oil for Healthy Skin
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight aging, says Dr. Judy Morgan, a holistic veterinarian based in New Jersey. (Antioxidants prevent free radical damage, which scientists believe contributes to aging.) While your dog couldn’t care less about maintaining her youthful glow, she can still benefit from Vitamin E oil. Morgan says it adds protection against UV radiation, which is especially beneficial if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors.
It can also be used to moisturize your companion’s dry skin. Morgan recommends massaging Vitamin E oil on your dog’s coat. “Vitamin E capsules can also be broken open and used on warts, calluses, or dry spots,” she says, adding that there is no cause for concern if your pet licks off the small amount of the oil.
2. Electrolyte-Replacing Liquids for Diarrhea
Flavorless electrolyte-replacing liquids (such as sports waters or pediatric drinks) not only help athletes to rehydrate and babies to recover from illness, but also can supply your sick pooch’s body with much-needed fluid and electrolytes if he’s suffering through a bout of diarrhea.
“Dogs lose fluids and electrolytes when they have diarrhea, so offering them a drink that contains both can be appropriate, particularly if their appetite hasn’t fully returned to normal,” says Dr. Jennifer Coates, veterinary advisor with petMD.
Consult your veterinarian as to the appropriate dosage before giving these types of liquids to your dog and to determine whether additional treatment is necessary.
3. Yogurt for Dogs
Delicious, plain yogurt can be a healthy treat for your dog. The live probiotic organisms in the yogurt may also help keep the bacteria in your dog’s intestines in balance, but “the canine digestive tract is not the same as ours,” Coates cautions. “There are better options out there that are made specifically for dogs.”
Probiotic supplements for dogs are widely available through veterinarians and over-the-counter. Coates recommends ones that are made by reputable companies and that have the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal on the label to ensure that you are purchasing a safe and effective product.
4. Chamomile Tea for Upset Stomach and Minor Irritation
Chamomile soothes the stomach by decreasing muscle spasms and cramps, Morgan says. “It also decreases inflammation of mucous membranes, so it decreases inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining.” Chamomile tea can be added to your dog’s food or water bowl, or given by mouth with a syringe, she says.
Getting your dog to drink something new is not always easy, however, admits Dr. Patty Khuly, owner of Miami, Florida-based Sunset Animal Clinic. She primarily uses chamomile on dogs with minor rashes and irritations.
Khuly recommends brewing a strong chamomile tea, pouring it into a clean spray bottle, and letting it cool in the refrigerator. “Then, spray liberally onto red or raw skin for an immediate soothing effect—with no sting.”
5. Oatmeal for Itchy Skin
If you’ve had the chicken pox, you may have taken an oatmeal bath to soothe your itchy skin. “Oatmeal contains chemicals called avenanthramides and phenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties,” Morgan explains.
Pets with skin allergies and superficial infections get immediate relief from oatmeal, says Khuly, who is a general veterinary practitioner. “It’s especially helpful for dogs with really itchy feet. Plus, it’s 100 percent non-toxic and delicious, too.”
To create your own remedy, Morgan suggests grinding the oatmeal to a fine powder and mixing it with water to apply as a poultice (drying agent) on hot spots or inflamed areas. If your dog tolerates baths, you can add the oatmeal formula to warm water, and let your dog soak for five to 10 minutes.
6. Epsom Salts for Wounds
You might use magnesium-rich Epsom salts to relieve sore muscles. They have anti-inflammatory properties and are also useful for soaking and cleaning wounds, Morgan says. “They cause abscesses to open and drain, relieving pressure in the wound and allowing healing. We use these a lot for soaking feet of horses and also dogs with inter-digital sores.”
To create a soak for your dog, Morgan advises mixing the Epsom salts with warm water and applying the soak on your dog for five to 10 minutes, three times a day.
7. Oils for Flea Prevention
If you are reluctant to use conventional flea prevention products, you might have looked into natural options. “There are a lot of recipes out there—some good, some bad,” Morgan says. Essential oils can be very effective, she says, “but must be diluted so they do not cause harm to the animal.” (Note: Some oils that are safe for dogs may be toxic for cats. Check the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control for guidance and consult with your veterinarian.)
Morgan likes coconut oil, which you can either give your dog orally or apply externally on his coat. “The higher the lauric acid content in the oil, the more effective it will be,” she says. “Many inferior coconut oils have very low lauric acid content.” Coconut oil can also be used as a carrier oil for essential oils.
After using a flea comb daily to help remove fleas from a dog’s coat, Integrative Veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne recommends bathing your canine companion with a natural pet flea shampoo. “Start, for example, with a pint of organic oatmeal shampoo, and then add two tablespoons of either neem or tea tree oil, shake well and begin bathing. Pets may be bathed weekly or as needed.” Keep in mind that improper dilutions of tea tree oil and other essential oils can be toxic for pets, so consult with your veterinarian first. And while natural options like these may help repel fleas, they are unlikely to solve a full-blown infestation on their own.
8. Hydrogen Peroxide, Baking Soda, and Dishwashing Liquid for Deodorizing
Aside from the redness, swelling, sneezing, and other symptoms a skunk encounter can create for your dog, is the offensive smell. A de-skunking remedy Khuly suggests is a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dishwashing liquid, which she says works on skunked fur and everything the skunked fur has contact with. Mix four cups of hydrogen peroxide with one-third cup baking soda and a small squirt of dishwashing liquid, and apply it liberally to your pet’s coat, she says. Rinse well after about five minutes and repeat if necessary.
While it’s not the most glamorous topic, this solution also works well for stinky anal glands, Khuly says.
9. Licorice Root for Itchiness
No, this is not the same as the licorice candy you eat. Licorice root is actually a form of cortisone, and cortisone relieves skin irritation and reduces the urge to scratch, says Osborne, who practices in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
You may see bottles of licorice root in stores that sell health products. Pet supply stores also offer licorice products formulated for dogs. Some dog-specific products designed to treat allergy symptoms in dogs may also include licorice root.
If you’ve given your dog a flea bath and dip and she’s still itchy, Osborne suggests the following herbal, home remedy: “Take five drops of licorice root, five drops of dandelion root, and five drops of cat’s claw. Mix all three together and give five drops of the final solution to your canine by mouth, once daily for 14 days in a row.”
“Since cortisone is a type of steroid, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving these products to your dog to prevent any potential cross reactions and/or side effects with any other medications your pet may be taking,” Osborne advises. Also, some licorice root formulations have been associated with low blood potassium levels, muscle breakdown, and kidney damage. Make sure you are working with a veterinarian who is well-trained in holistic medicine before you reach for any herbal remedy.
Baking soda, dishwashing liquid, hydrogen peroxide, and chamomile tea are a few items you may keep in your home that can also double as home remedies for your dog. Remember to first talk to your vet about any unusual symptoms your dog has and whether these products are appropriate for her situation. Taking away your canine companion’s discomfort may already be well within your reach.
Letters – Volunteers appreciated
The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is so appreciative of the amazing time, talents, and heart of our agency volunteers.
One week in April is set aside for National Volunteer Appreciation Week to show special thanks to all who give so much; however, year-round our agency witnesses the amazing heart and support of our community. Volunteer support is given to our agency through CASA Advocates, CAC Family Advocates, our Board of Directors, Office Support, Building care, Event Support and Participation, In Kind and Financial Donations, and Kind Wishes! While our services to Clinton County’s abused and neglected children may have difficult days, we are continuously uplifted by our community volunteers. Thank you!
Kelly Schafer, Executive Director
The Voice for Clinton County’s Children
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – Causes of Sudden Aggression in Cats
courtesy of Jessica Vogelsang, DVM
You’re on the couch, petting your purring cat just like you have on many previous quiet evenings. She turns on her side as you rub her belly, and she kneads her paws in contentment. Then, before you know what happened, she hisses and bites your hand. What gives? What happened to turn your mild-mannered cat into Cujo?
Unfortunately, aggression is not uncommon in felines; in fact, it’s the second most common reason for a visit to a behaviorist. Sudden aggression in cats is a scary and frustrating problem for many owners, who fear the unpredictable nature of the kitty fury as well as the physical damage he or she can cause in the throes of an attack. In addition to the painful nature of cat bites and scratches, they can also transmit diseases such as cat scratch fever or serious bacterial infection. Cat aggression is truly no laughing matter.
What Does Aggression in Cats Look Like?
Although owners often report a cat attacking out of nowhere, cats often exhibit subtle changes in body positioning before launching into an actual act of aggression. These postures may be a clue in pinpointing the trigger for the aggressive behavior, as well as a much-needed warning before future attacks.
Defensive postures are intended to make a cat look smaller and position herself in a protective manner. These postures may include: crouching, flattened ears, turning away from the person, hissing, swatting at you, raised hackles, or a tucked head. A defensive cat is often experiencing fear or anxiety about a situation that may or may not be apparent to you. You can be the recipient of fear-based aggression even if you’re not the one causing the anxiety.
Offensive postures make a cat look big and intimidating. These postures include: stiffened legs, hackles raised, moving toward you, staring at you, upright ears, growling, and a stiff tail.
In either case, you want to avoid interacting with a cat exhibiting these postures as they are on the brink of moving on to the real damaging moves. A cat in attack mode can move with startling speed and aggression, and inflict extensive damage in a very swift period when the mouth and all four paws are engaged.
What Causes Sudden Aggression in Felines?
Cat aggression falls into a number of categories. Taking a full and complete history about where the cat was located and what was happening right before the aggressive behavior began is a key component in determining the cause.
– Fear aggression is triggered by a cat who perceives a threat that he or she cannot escape. This can be a learned behavior based on past experience, and you may not be entirely sure exactly what the cat is fearful of.
– Aggression with a medical origin is also common. Pain is the most sudden medical cause for sudden aggression, particularly in older cats or those who have always had a calm temperament. Arthritis, dental disease, trauma, and infections are just some of the conditions that can cause pain and subsequent aggression when a cat is touched, or thinks he or she might be touched, in a painful area. In addition to pain, cognitive decline, a loss of normal sensory input, or neurological problems can all lead to aggression.
– Territorial aggression happens when a cat feels an intruder is infringing on his or her territory. While often directed at other cats, people and other animals may be the subject of the aggression as well. Triggers may include introducing a new pet or even a new person into the house, a recent move, or new cats in the neighborhood.
– Status aggression occurs when a cat attempts to run the house. Cats who growl when you try to move them, block doors, or bite you when you pay attention to another pet may be asserting themselves in this manner.
– Petting-induced aggression, the type described in the opening paragraph, occurs when a cat who enjoys being pet suddenly changes his or her mind. It’s thought that the repetitive motion over time turns from pleasant to irritating.
– Redirected aggression is one of the most unpredictable and dangerous types of feline aggression. In these cases, a cat is in a hyper-aroused state by some sort of external stimulus—an animal outside, squirrels running by that he can’t chase, a frightening noise or smell. In your blameless state, you walk by and wind up on the receiving end of this pent-up outburst, seemingly out of nowhere.
What Should I Do If My Cat Experiences Sudden Aggression?
The first stop any time a cat shows these aggressive signs without obvious provocation is your veterinarian. She can examine your cat and make sure he does not have a medical condition causing the unwanted behavior. If your cat has a clean bill of health, your veterinarian can refer you to a behaviorist who can help determine the triggers of aggression and the steps you can take at home to resolve the problem.
In many cases, simply being aware of the early signals of a cat about to freak out gives you the chance to remove yourself from the situation before it escalates to violence. While you can’t always control the causes of the anxiety, owners can often give the cat the space he or she needs to wind down without injuring anyone. With patience and some good detective work, many cats are quickly back in everyone’s good graces.