Category: News

Clinton County adopts Smart 911

Now more lives could be saved because Clinton County has adopted smart 9-1-1. The smart 9-1-1 program lets you make a profile in advance detailing information about yourself that pops up on screen when you call 9-1-1.

The profile travels with you; so if you’re signed up in another county and have an emergency in Clinton, they will have access to your information, creating a larger database.

The messaging also saves on resources. A lot of people accidentally call 9-1-1. Now dispatchers can just send them a text to see if they really need help.

If you’re interested in creating a smart 9-1-1 profile you can by visiting smart911.com from there you click on “sign up today.”

It’s free and only takes a few minutes.

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Tree pickup begins January 3

Beginning Tuesday, January 3 the City of St. Johns Public Works Department will be picking up Christmas trees. Granger does not pick up Christmas trees.

Please place them by the curb and have the tree free of any decorations. Please do not have the tree wrapped in a plastic bag. The trees will be on the same schedule as the brown bag pick-up, Monday or Tuesday.

You may also take your tree to the Public Works Department at 1000 N. US-127 BR compost area with 24/7 access. Please use the Kuntz Drive entrance.

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A friendly reminder from the City – Keep Sidewalks Clean of Snow and Ice

Just a friendly reminder: Please Keep Sidewalks Clean of Snow and Ice.

The removal of snow and ice on public sidewalks is the responsibility of the property owner in accordance with Section 4.70 of the City Code. The Police Department enforces the ordinance.

Do not throw snow, slush or ice in the street. This is against state statute and a citation may be issued for individuals whom violate this code (Motor Vehicle Code P.A. 82 of 1978, 257.677a).

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Wanted: New Voices

The Mint City Singers begin new music in January and we invite you to join us.

We are a community choir, part of the Clinton County Arts Council Rehearsals for the new year begin Monday, January 9, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns from 7-8:30 PM.

Call Ellen at 989-233-5775 for more information.

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City Recreation opportunities

Biddy Basketball coming up

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department 2017 K-2nd Little Hoopsters Basketball Program (Biddy Basketball) will introduce children the game of basketball. This program is meant to be a positive introduction to the game of basketball for first year players and a skill sharpening opportunity for returning players. Kids will be divided up into teams, so they can start to learn how to play as a team, and show what they have learned throughout the teaching process. Each participant that pre-registers will receive a t-shirt, certificate, and individual award. The program will be on Saturdays starting February 11 through March 18 starting at 9:00am until around 1:15pm (depending on the number of teams).

Registrations for all activities are available at the City Offices and website at www.ci.saint-johns.mi.us. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 284 or email
bblackmon@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information.

Basketball Skills Camp

The Basketball Skills Camp for grades 3rd – 6th. The camp will be on Saturdays starting February 11th through March 18th starting early afternoon with each session lasting an hour. Basketball University Sports and Events LLC will provide instruction on skill development to help your child with ball handling, shooting, and understanding team play. Your child will get helpful information that will prepare them to better understand the game of basketball.

Can’t make it every week? Then just drop-in and pay for the weeks you can make it.

Registration for the program is $ 42.00 when pre-registering for 6 weeks or $10 per week drop-in for St. Johns School district residents and $48.00 when pre-registering and $12 per week for drop-in for non-school district residents. Drops-ins are allowed only if space permits, to ensure your spot pre-register by February 3, 2017. If you would like to know more about Basketball University please visit http://www.bballuniversity.org/.

Kids Power Karate

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department is accepting registrations for Kids Power Karate. The six week class is designed for boys and girls, ages 5-12 years old who want to learn discipline, self-defense, and have fun. Classes will be held on Mondays from 6:15 to 7:00 pm starting January 23rd, at Gateway Elementary. The cost is $40.00 for St. Johns City Residents and $45 for non- City Residents. The deadline for registration is January 20, 2017, no drop-ins will be allowed. At the conclusion of the class, your children will have the opportunity to test for their first color belt.

Registrations for all activities are available at the City Offices and website at www.ci.saint-johns.mi.us. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 284 or email bblackmon@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information. Like us on Facebook.

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Moolenaar announces January office hours

Congressman John Moolenaar (R-Midland) announced office hours to be held by constituent relations representatives at locations throughout the Fourth District. Residents in need of assistance with a federal agency are welcome to attend and no appointment is necessary.

January 5

12:00-1:00 PM
Clinton County Building
Garden Level Conference Room A

A Paine Gillam Scott Museum Christmas

by Maralyn Fink

On Sunday I attended the last Christmas open house at the Museum. Decked out in Christmas fashion from back in the day, it was everything I hoped it would be.

There were so many things that brought back memories and even some things my mother had. I never tire of looking back and seeing the things most of our parents and grandparents had and used.

If you have never visited, you should put this on your list of things to do.

This was the last day to see the Christmas display, and now the Museum will be closed for the winter and will re-open in the spring.

The Museum is always looking for new old things that they can use for display, and they also take monetary donations to keep the Museum up and running.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and to all a good night.

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St. Joseph School celebrates Christmas

The voices of children reminded us of what Christmas is all about. We are not that far from Bethlehem, where all our hope and joy began.

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District Library staff celebrates retirement

Briggs District Library staff members celebrated the December retirement of Maureen Durbin and Carol Fedewa.

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Wanted: New Voices

The Mint City Singers begin new music in January, and they invite you to join them.

Rehearsals for the new year begin on Monday, January 9, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns at 7-8:30 PM.

The Singers are a community choir, part of the Clinton County Arts Council.

Call Ellen at 989-233-5775 for more info. Sing with them in the new year.

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Girls on the Run of Mid Michigan looking to expand

Girls on the Run of Mid Michigan is currently looking for new sites to host programming. Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program that teaches key life skills to girls in 3rd through 8th grade through dynamic discussions and fun games that creatively integrate running.

Girls on the Run of Mid Michigan is currently accepting new sites to host teams for the spring season and provide program opportunities to more girls. Current sites include local schools, community centers, churches and hospitals. Each site must have a volunteer site liaison, a safe space for physical activity and be able to provide both outdoor and indoor meeting locations.

At each site, volunteer coaches lead teams of 8-15 girls through research-based curricula that include lessons on confidence, treating others with care and contributing to the community. During the ten-week program, girls complete a community service project and become physically and emotionally prepared to participate in a celebratory 5k event.
“I noticed changes in every girl! Our quieter girls seemed more confident in expressing their voices. Girls that probably wouldn’t have been friends, formed relationships and the team genuinely watched out for each other.” – Girls on the Run Mid Michigan coach.

To learn more about starting a new Girls on the Run site, visit GOTRMidMichgian.org or contact Stephanie McClintock at 989.723.6329.

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A Capitol Nativity

Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, was joined by Sen. Ken Horn, R-Frankenmuth (left), and Sen. Jim Marleau, R-Lake Orion (right), to set up a Nativity scene on the east lawn of the Michigan Capitol.

Jones encouraged the public to come out to see the display. For the next six days he made the trip to the Capitol daily to put up the Nativity scene in the morning and then dismantle it each night by 9 p.m., in accordance with Capitol Commission rules.

Shop with a Cop, 2016

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Biddy Basketball coming up

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department 2017 K-2nd Little Hoopsters Basketball Program (Biddy Basketball) will introduce children the game of basketball.

This program is meant to be a positive introduction to the game of basketball for first year players and a skill sharpening opportunity for returning players. Kids will be divided up into teams, so they can start to learn how to play as a team, and show what they have learned throughout the teaching process.

Each participant who pre-registers will receive a t-shirt, certificate, and individual award. The program will be on Saturdays starting February 11 through March 18 starting at 9:00am until around 1:15 pm, depending on the number of teams.

Registrations for all activities are available at the City Offices and website at www.ci.saint-johns.mi.us. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 284 or email bblackmon@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information.

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Kids Power Karate

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department is accepting registrations for Kids Power Karate. The six week class is designed for boys and girls, ages 5-12 years old who want to learn discipline, self-defense, and have fun.

Classes will be held on Mondays starting January 23rd, with location still to be determined. The cost is $40.00 for St. Johns City Residents and $45 for non- City Residents.

The deadline for registration is January 20, 2017. No drop-ins will be allowed. At the conclusion of the class, your children will have the opportunity to test for their first color belt.

Registrations forms are available at the City Offices and website at http://cityofstjohnsmi.com/Departme…/ParksandRecreation.aspx. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 227 or email bblackmon@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information.

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MMDHD Calendar – January 2017

Family Planning Clinic Schedule

The Mid-Michigan District Health Department’s Family Planning Clinics provide confidential care to men and women in need of contraception and reproductive health services. Charges for services and supplies are based on income. The Family Planning Clinics are scheduled as follows:

Mid-Michigan District Health Department
1307 E. Townsend Road
St. Johns, MI 48879

January 3: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
January 10: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
January 17: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m
January 24: . 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
January 31: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (989) 224-2195, Option 5, Monday through Friday.

Hearing & Vision Screening Clinic

Vision screening is required for all children entering kindergarten. The Mid-Michigan District Health Department offers free vision testing, as well as hearing screening tests for all children ages 3 to 21. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (989) 227-3125, Monday through Friday.

WIC Benefit Pick-Up Schedule

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and children up to 5 years old may be eligible for free food through the WIC (Women, Infants & Children) program. The Mid-Michigan District Health Department WIC Benefit Pick-up Clinics are scheduled as follows:

January 4
January 9: at Mid-Michigan District Health Department, 1307 E. Townsend Road in St. Johns, from 9 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (989) 224-2195, Option 5, Monday through Friday.

“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.”

Immunization Clinic

The Mid-Michigan District Health Department Immunization Clinics are to be held as follows:

Mid-Michigan District Health Department
1307 E. Townsend Road
St. Johns, MI 48879

January 9: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

January 11: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m

January 19: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m

January 23: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

January 30: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Immunizations will be available for adults and children eight weeks of age through adulthood, appointments are preferred. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (989) 224-2195, Option 5, Monday through Friday.

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Moolenaar announces January office hours

Congressman John Moolenaar (R-Midland) announced office hours to be held by constituent relations representatives at locations throughout the Fourth District. Residents in need of assistance with a federal agency are welcome to attend and no appointment is necessary.

January 5

12:00-1:00 PM
Clinton County Building
Garden Level Conference Room “A”
100 East State Street
St. Johns, MI 48879

St. Peter School celebrates Third Sunday in Advent

St. Peter Lutheran Sunday School and Day School children in Riley Township joined the congregation to sing carols on third Sunday in Advent.

The costumes were out of the boxes. The shepherds, stable boy, angel, and Ruth and Naomi were ready for the the Savior to be born. How are your hearts and homes? Ready yet?

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Snowy crash kills Ovid teen

A car-truck crash happened in snowy conditions on Shepardsville Road between Kinley Road and Faragher Road in Ovid Township just before 1 p.m. on Sunday, December 11.

The southbound car driven by 59-year-old Ida Bontrager from Ovid lost control on the snow covered roads and slid sideways into the path of a northbound pickup truck, driven by a 34 year old man from Elsie.

In the southbound vehicle along with the driver there were two passengers, a 15 year old boy in the front seat and 14 year old Anthony Bontrager in rear seat. Anthony was ejected from the vehicle and died on scene. (See obituary) The driver and 15-year-old William Bontrager were transported to Sparrow Hospital and listed in critical condition. They are expected to live.

The pickup truck was occupied by a 34 year husband as his 24 year old wife and their children, ages 2 years and 10 months old. They were not hurt.

Clinton County Deputies were assisted on scene Ovid Fire and Rescue, Elsie Fire and Ambulance, Mercy and MMR ambulance Services and Clinton County Central Dispatch. The incident remains under investigation by the Clinton County Sheriffs Office Crash Investigation Team.

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Polar Express at the depot

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department hosted their second Christmas Event on Saturday, December 10, 2016.

Children had the opportunity to explore the St Johns Railroad Depot, including the real life outdoor railroad cars and small model train exhibit. Admission included kid friendly food, crafts, with a popular family friendly Christmas movie The Polar Express. Santa will also made a special appearance.

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Help is here for winter roads conditions

If you are looking for real-time road condition and closure information check out MDOT’s interactive map. There are cameras that show live images as well.

https://mdotnetpublic.state.mi.us/drive/Default.aspx and enter the zip code to get started.

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Downtown parking permits on sale

2017 parking permits are now for sale at the police department. A parking permit is required to park in any city parking lot overnight or for more than 2 hours during the day.

Permits are available for purchase during regular business hours at the Police Department, M-F from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Santa visits the library

https://www.facebook.com/BriggsDistrictLibrary/videos/1299755676732509/

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NRTF includes Spray Park on its list of recommendations

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund board recommended using $27.7 million from the trust fund to support 27 acquisition projects and $19.9 million for 87 development projects.

Clinton County would see $96,700 used to renovate a more-than-50-year-old bathhouse to provide a place for all users of the newly opened St. Johns Community Spray Park to change clothes or use the bathroom. The renovation would include adding two accessible family changing rooms, electrical and plumbing upgrades, a new roof and updated toilets.

The NRTF is supported by interest earned on funds generated from the development of state-owned mineral rights. The trust fund is constitutionally restricted for natural resources improvements and land acquisitions across the state.

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Learning Positive Ways to Deal with Stress and Anger – December 21

This series will give parents an opportunity to discuss, do activities, and learn strategies on each topic to enhance their parenting skills. In the first session, parents will increase their understanding of Nurturing Parenting, a proven approach experienced by hundreds of thousands of families worldwide.

MSU Extension in Clinton County invites interested parents of children birth to 8 years old to come to participate in this series. Sessions are from 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm, at the Bath Township Library Center (14033 Webster Rd) in Bath. Please call in advance to register at 989-224-5241. This is a free series open to the community; attend one session or all eight.

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Area Students’ Technology Showcases displayed and demonstrated at State Capitol

Last week, students from Ovid-Elsie and Laingsburg Schools joined hundreds of others from across the state to present technology demonstrations to lawmakers at the state Capitol Building.

The 16th annual AT&T/MACUL/MVU Student Technology Showcase took place Wednesday, December 7 in the rotunda of the state Capitol Building.

MACUL Board President Gina Loveless, Ovid-Elsie High School students Kiernan Seagers, Joey McGroarty, Zach Morris and Dawson Coats

Presented by the Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL), and underwritten by AT&T and Michigan Virtual University (MVU), the 2016 Student Showcase featured demonstrations from students representing three local area schools.

“Technology is changing the world and it’s crucial that children learn about how to use it both safely and creatively,” said Jim Murray, president of AT&T Michigan. “All of us at AT&T are proud to be a part of this showcase that demonstrates the great work being done in our classrooms to empower students with innovation and technology.”

Students displayed a wide variety of technology projects that blended science, mathematics, social studies and language arts with the latest digital tools. Their work featured paperless classroom and online learning demonstrations, coding, robotics, web design, and dozens of others.

Mark Smith, MACUL executive director, said, “This showcase highlights the best technology projects Michigan students have to offer. Giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their work for lawmakers represents the culmination of months of hard work, and a lifetime of learning.”

MVU is a private, nonprofit Michigan corporation established by the state of Michigan in 1998 to serve as a champion for online learning. Visit http://www.mivu.org/ for more information.

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Briggs District Library News

Kids, Cartoons, & Crafts – Children ages 5-9 are invited to join us on Thursday, December 22 from 6:30-7:30 for a special Christmas edition of this festive program. We will have a snack, play a game, build a simple craft, and watch a special holiday-themed episode of the Animaniacs! Registration is required and is now available.

Pre-Reader Program – Shake It “UP!” Registration for this upbeat program for children ages 4 thru 6 years old began on Thursday, December 15th. We will enjoy stories, music, and some very creative movement! This 6 week session will be on Thursday evenings, 6:30-7pm and runs January 12th through February 16th, 6:30-7pm. We’re going to “MOVE IT MOVE IT”

Container Garden – During this new program participants will hear from a woman who makes container gardens, also known as Fairy Gardens. Each session will feature demonstrations, tips and tricks, and hands-on creation time. We will meet Mondays evenings, 6:30-7:45, January 23-February 13. This program is for adults and for children ages 8 and up who attend with an adult. More information about types of containers and suggested materials will be available as the program nears. Registration for this free program is required, and opens Tuesday, December 27.

Adult Coloring Club – The library will be offering adult coloring programs on the first Thursday of each month. Our first session is Thursday, January 5 from 6:00-7:30. Participants are welcome to use the materials we provide or bring their own at this self-directed, come and go as you please program. Registration for this free program is now available.

Bookaholics Book Club – Start the New Year off right by reading a great book! The January selection of the Bookaholics is My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She’s Sorry by Fredrik Backman, a charming, warmhearted novel about a young girl whose grandmother dies and leaves behind a series of letters, sending her on a journey that brings to life the world of her grandmother’s fairy tales. It is a story about life and death and an ode to one of the most important human rights: the right to be different. Copies of the book are now available. The Bookaholics is an open club, and is always accepting new members, so all are invited to join us when we meet next on Thursday, January 19 at 6:30p.m.

Lap-sit Storytime “Busy with Family, Friends & More” – Children ages 12 to 24 months with adult participation are invited to enjoy story-time sessions on Friday mornings 10:30-11am, February 17th-March 24th OR Monday evenings 6:30-7pm, February 20th – March 27th. We will share age appropriate stories, fun creative movement, music and learn simple signs (sign language). Registration is required and opens Friday, January 20, 2017. This program is a great way for very young children to socialize with each other in a fun and casual environment.

Library Closure – The Library will be closed on December 24 and 26 for the Christmas Holiday and on December 31and January 2 for the New Year’s Holiday. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout these closures.

Staff Picks – If you are looking for a good book to read here is a list of titles that Library staff enjoyed or found informative in the last month.

– Fiction: “The Wonder” by E. Donoghue, “Letter’s From Paris” by J. Blackwell, “Folly Cove” by H. Robinson, “A House Without Windows” by N. Hashimi, “Night Watch” by I. Johansen, “Manitou Canyon” by W. Krueger, “Victoria by D. Goodwin.
– Nonfiction: “Hamilton: the Revolution” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, “Gifts in Jars” by N. Wise, “Celebrate Everything: Fun Ideas to bring Your Parties to Life” by D. Miller.
– Miss Marie’s Juvenile Picks: “Wish” by B. O’Connor, “Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea” by B. Clanton, “Cook Me a Story: a Treasury of Stories and Recipes Inspired by Classic Fairytales by B. Kozlowski.

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Contact Information:

Library Director: Sara Morrison
Phone: 989-224-4702 * Fax: 989-224-1205
E-mail: director@briggsdistrictlibrary.org
Street address: 108 E Railroad * Saint Johns, MI 48879

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Baker College continues 2017 winter enrollment

Enrollment for 2017 winter quarter is ongoing for new and returning students at Baker College’s Owosso campus, 1309 S. M-52, Owosso. On-ground classes begin Monday, Jan. 9; the two sessions of online classes begin Thursday, Jan. 5, and Thursday, Feb. 16.

Enrollment deadlines for new students vary; the earliest is Thursday, Dec. 22.

“Baker College’s unique focus on the employment market directly benefits students by preparing them to be job-ready at graduation,” said Aaron J. Maike, Baker College of Owosso president. “Our curricula are designed to meet the ever changing demands of the workforce and are taught by working professionals with real-world perspectives and understanding.”

Baker College has day, evening, weekend and online classes for degree and certificate programs in the areas of applied technology, business, education, engineering, health science, information technology and social science.

Bachelor’s, associate and certificate career programs offered at the Owosso campus include management, marketing, accounting, human resource management, elementary and secondary teacher preparation, early childhood education, criminal justice, nursing, occupational therapy assistant, medical assistant, diagnostic medical sonography, agriculture technology, computer programming, and information technology and security.

For information, visit www.baker.edu or follow Baker College on Twitter, @bakercollege, or on Facebook, www.facebook.com/bakercollege.

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CASA Volunteer Advocates Needed

CASA-The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is currently accepting applications for our next CASA Volunteer Advocate Training.

Those interested in serving as a CASA Advocate must submit a volunteer application, completely pass a criminal and personal background check, and participate in our 30-hour pre-service training.

Applicants should have ample time to visit their appointed child every 7 to 10 days (activities during visits may include playing games, playing outside, helping with homework, coloring, etc.). Our program continues to work toward our goal of having enough CASA Advocates for every Clinton County child who is in foster care.

For more information, please visit our website ClintonCountyCASA.org or contact our office at clintoncountycasa@gmail.com or 517-599-7145.

Clinton County Fill-A-Cop Car

by Maralyn Fink

On Saturday I wandered to Kroger’s to find the Fill-A-Cop car to see how things were going.

I met Officer Brendon and Officer Nick, and they reported that things were going well this year.

Officer Nick and helper were also collecting non perishable items for the drive.

It was a cold day, but residents had no problem with the donating. Thanks to all who came out to donate and tothe Officers and helpers who were there to accept the items.

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Mailing letters to Santa at St. Johns Depot

In the middle of getting ready for the holidays, don’t forget there is a great place for children to mail their letters to Santa down by the St. Johns Depot.

One of the three historic train cars sitting on the tracks is a Railroad Post Office (RPO) and baggage car made in 1903. Just think how old it is now!

It always had a mail slot in its side when it worked as a moving post office for 50 years or more, and the slot is still there. The car doesn’t travel any more, but letters mailed there to Santa mysteriously get to him without even needing a stamp.

You can easily tell where this is because there is a very large painting of Santa standing by the steps that lead to the mail slot, and the steps have colored lights on their railing. In case you aren’t sure where the St. Johns Depot is, the address is 107 E. Railroad St. in St. Johns, right across from the library.

The historic railcars belong to the Railroad Museum branch of Clinton County Arts Council, which receives some operating funds from competitive grants from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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Holiday Music Spectacular coming up Friday, December 9

The St. Johns Community Band presents the 2016 Holiday Music Spectacular on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Wilson Center Auditorium.

Scheduled to appear are the Vivo Contando Children’s Choir, the Mint City Singers and the St. Johns Community Band.

The program begins at 7:00pm. Admission is free. Donations accepted for the Wilson Center Auditorium Renovation Project.

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Christmas toys at Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum

The Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum invites you to Christmas at the Museum.

The toy top is just one of the many antique toys under the live Hemlock tree.

Don’t miss the 2016 Christmas season display and the Clinton County Farming Exhibit. The Museum will close for the winter after Sunday, December 18 and reopen in May of 2017.

The Museum is located at 106 Maple Street, west of the Courthouse and is open Wednesdays 2:00 to 6:30 pm and Sundays 1:00 to 4:00 pm through Sunday, December 18.

For further information, please contact the Museum at PGSMuseum@hotmail.com, call 989-224-2894 or 989-292-9096. The website is PGSmuseum.com.

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Kiwanis takes kids shopping

Kiwanis believes that it’s always a great start of the Christmas season, to do what we do best – give back to our community, especially our young people.

The Kiwanis club took 21 kids Christmas shopping the other day. What a joy it was to see the happiness in their faces!

Sue Lounds, Tom Leonard, Jenell Leonard, Kimberly Jaworski Brzozowski, Katie Eccleton and Steve Heath were among the helpers.

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Fred Meijer Rails to Trails celebrates bridge opening

How cool is this?

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Twin Rivers Bridge on Monday, November 28

When it became clear that the current bridge over the Maple River was unsafe for vehicular traffic, a new bridge was built in its place. But instead of tearing down the old bridge it was re-purposed into a trail spur, providing a pedestrian link from the Clinton Ionia Shiawassee Trail in Muir to Lyons.

Christmas Crafts and more

by Maralyn Fink

On Saturday, I attended the craft show at the RESA building. A large group of crafters were present with their goods along with a good crowd. A large assortment of wares were available, so some Christmas shopping was accomplished.

Stopping at the Second Cup Café is a must, and I met Shaun who was checking out the purchases. He was all business but very nice.

Last but not least, from there I ran into a cookie walk. There is a Santa Claus as I headed straight there.

So many cookies to choose from and there I met Kauly who was also helping out. Choices made, it was time to leave as I really needed a cookie.

I will be back next year.

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Toys for Tots collection sites open – through December 15

The Marine Corp Toys for Tots campaign has begun in Clinton County. The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce, which is the sponsoring organization for Toys for Tots in Clinton County has delivered over 35 collection boxes to businesses throughout the county that will collect toys through Thursday, Dec 15 for Clinton County children.

For anyone donating a toy, please consider this. The campaign always gets lots of games, generic baby dolls, Barbie dolls, generic cars and trucks, footballs and basketballs. Some of the most popular items requested this year are anything drawing, minecraft, Trolls and Beat Bo. We are also always in need of things like craft kits for older girls, current CD’s, DVD’s and books from recent movie releases, sports apparel (MSU hats and shirts), fishing or hunting items, etc.

If you place a toy in one of these boxes you can be assured the toy will go to a child that lives in Clinton County:

In Bath: Bath Township Office

In DeWitt: Bridge Street Hair, DeWitt City Police, DeWitt District Library, DeWitt Township Police and Fire (both locations), Mercantile Bank, New Beginnings Learn and Play and Verizon Wireless.

In Fowler: Dollar General, Journey Federal Credit Union, Ken’s Kar Kare and Main Street Pizza;

In Ovid: Dollar General, Journey Federal Credit Union and Main Street Pizza;

In St. Johns: Barber’s Floors and More, Big Boy, Briggs Public Library, Bruno’s Bar, Clinton County Chamber of Commerce, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Dollar General, FirstMerit Bank, Journey Federal Credit Union, Mercantile Bank, Peebles, St. Johns Police Department, Tractor Supply, Walgreens and Walmart.

In Wacousta: Watertown Charter Township.

If your family needs assistance with clothing, food and toys for the holidays, please register with Capital Area Community Services at 989-224-6702. If you need assistance with just toys and you are not registered with another agency, call Clinton County Toys for Tots at 989-224-7248 or email ccchamber@4wbi.net.

If you have any questions about the Toys for Tots campaign, toys needs or toy distribution, contact Brenda Terpening at the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248.

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Praising Children and their Behavior, Understanding Discipline – December 14

This series will give parents an opportunity to discuss, do activities, and learn strategies on each topic to enhance their parenting skills. In the first session, parents will increase their understanding of Nurturing Parenting, a proven approach experienced by hundreds of thousands of families worldwide.

MSU Extension in Clinton County invites interested parents of children birth to 8 years old to come to participate in this series. Sessions are from 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm, at the Bath Township Library Center (14033 Webster Rd) in Bath. Please call in advance to register at 989-224-5241. This is a free series open to the community; attend one session or all eight.

Sessions Schedule Wednesdays:

December 21: Learning Positive Ways to Deal with Stress and Anger

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Beware of the silent killer

You can’t see, taste or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels, it can be deadly.

According to the Annual Report on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, published in 2015 by Michigan Department of Community Health, 828 Michiganders were unintentionally poisoned by carbon monoxide, including 34 who died from the exposure. The leading causes were faulty furnaces, water heaters and generators; but anything that burns fuel, like cars, kerosene heaters, charcoal grills and camp stoves all produce carbon monoxide and can be dangerous.

Most people exposed to carbon monoxide are completely unaware, which is why it has been dubbed the “silent killer.” It quietly enters the bloodstream and cuts off delivery of oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. The first symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble the flu, and include headache, dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. Do not ignore these symptoms, especially if more than one person in the household experiences them. As more of the gas is inhaled, it can cause unconsciousness, brain damage and even death within a matter of minutes.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is completely preventable, so be sure you know how to protect your home and family:

· Place a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home, with one near bedrooms.
· Have a heating professional clean and inspect wood and fuel-powered appliances, chimneys and vents yearly.
· Generators should be several feet from your home, away from open windows, doors and air intakes.
· Don’t use fuel-powered items indoors, like generators, grills, or camp stoves.
· Don’t use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.
· Don’t run vehicles in the garage, even if the door is open.
If you suspect you or a family member has been exposed to carbon monoxide, go outside immediately, and go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

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CASA Volunteer Advocates Needed

CASA-The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is currently accepting applications for our next CASA Volunteer Advocate Training.

Those interested in serving as a CASA Advocate must submit a volunteer application, completely pass a criminal and personal background check, and participate in our 30-hour pre-service training.

Applicants should have ample time to visit their appointed child every 7 to 10 days (activities during visits may include playing games, playing outside, helping with homework, coloring, etc.). Our program continues to work toward our goal of having enough CASA Advocates for every Clinton County child who is in foster care.

For more information, please visit our website ClintonCountyCASA.org or contact our office at clintoncountycasa@gmail.com or 517-599-7145.

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Mark Your Calendar

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The St. Johns Community Band presents the 2016 Holiday Music Spectacular on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Wilson Center Auditorium.

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Paine-Gillam-Scott Museum open for the Christmas season on Wednesdays 2:00 to 6:30 pm and Sundays 1:00 to 4:00 pm through Sunday, December 18.

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Helping Hands Dinner Raffle will be held on Saturday, February 4 at Smith Hall

Rotary Helping Hands Dinner Raffle is February 4

Tickets are now on sale for the Rotary Club of St. Johns Annual Helping Hands Dinner Raffle which will be held on Saturday, February 4 at Smith Hall at the county fairgrounds in St. Johns. The dinner is expected to sell out again in 2017 with 225, for a couple or 2 seats, tickets being sold.

St. Johns Rotary has a rich history of supporting local community projects and charities as well as supporting international projects. The 2017 Helping Hands Dinner will be the 17th event in which our community has multiplied these investments to help St. Johns Rotary do even more good. In the last 16 years over $375,000 has been raised through the dinner to support Rotary projects and charitable support.

St. Johns Rotary invests about $50,000 annually in community service and about half of that amount comes through community support through the helping hands event.

Pam Foster, 2017 Helping Hands Dinner Co-Chair says, “The Helping Hands Dinner represents the kind of community spirit St. Johns is so well known for. The success of this event is due to the great support that members of the community consistently show.”

Tickets for the event are $150 per couple. $12,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded and the event will continue building on the success of the “Deal or No Deal” theme of the last few years, plus a silent auction packed with really great deals that you can bid on. Of the 225 tickets sold, one of every 10 will be drawn for cash and prizes. The biggest prize is $3,000.

Sparrow Clinton Hospital is the Platinum Sponsor of this year’s Helping Hands Dinner Raffle. Additional sponsorships are available. Tickets for the dinner are available from any Rotarian or by calling Pete Shannon at 227-3396.

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City prepare to receive Santa

The City of St. Johns is busy preparing for the arrival of Santa in downtown St. Johns on Friday evening.

Festivities start at 4:30 p.m. and Santa arrives with the parade at 5:45 p.m.

Please be aware that there will be no parking on North Clinton Avenue after 1:30 p.m. All vehicles will need to be moved from the 100, 200 and 300 blocks at that time. Additional free parking will be available in any City parking lot as well as to the east of the depot, behind the courthouse, adjacent streets and other areas.

For more information on all the activities available visit www.sjlightfest.com We hope to see you there!

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Holiday Music Spectacular coming up Friday, December 9

The St. Johns Community Band presents the 2016 Holiday Music Spectacular on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Wilson Center Auditorium.

Scheduled to appear are the Vivo Contando Children’s Choir, the Mint City Singers and the St. Johns Community Band.

The program begins at 7:00pm. Admission is free. Donations accepted for the Wilson Center Auditorium Renovation Project.

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Farm Bureau names Logan Educator of the Year

St Johns Gateway Elementary Kindergarten teacher DJ Logan has won the Farm Bureau 2016 K-12 Educator of the year. At the awards ceremony a video about her dedication to teaching about farming was featured.

Logan was chosen because of her outstanding work in helping implement St. Johns Public Schools’ Ag-STEM initiative at Gateway Elementary, in partnership with Central Michigan University.

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Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum hosts Old Fashioned Christmas

The Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum invites you to Christmas at the Museum.

The house has many Christmas related artifacts on display including the Carnival Glass punch set in the dining room. Fresh greens are found throughout the house with a live tree decorated in the era of the house.

The museum is located at 106 Maple Street, west of the Courthouse and is open for the Christmas season Wednesdays 2:00 to 6:30 pm and Sundays 1:00 to 4:00 pm through Sunday, December 18.

For further information, please contact the Museum at PGSMuseum@hotmail.com, call 989-224-2894 or 989-292-9096. The website is PGSmuseum.com.

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Agricultural Career Expo for 8th Graders of Clinton County

More than 600 Clinton County eighth graders will participate in the Second Clinton County Ag Expo8 the week of December 5th at AgroLiquid Corporate Headquarters in St. Johns, MI. The half-day event, presented by the Clinton Career Network (CCN), will expose attendees to a variety of careers in Michigan’s second largest industry.

“One of our goals at the CCN is to expose Clinton County 8th grade students to post-secondary opportunities,” said Becky Beckett, Coordinator of the Clinton Career Network. “This event allows us to highlight this crucial industry and the careers it offers.”

The middle school students from Bath, Fowler, Fowler Most Holy Trinity, Ovid-Elsie, Pewamo-Westphalia, St. Johns, and St. Joseph-Pewamo, will participate in three program areas. They include: a presentation focused on the importance of agriculture in today’s world and the vital impact agriculture has on our community; agriculture career-awareness sessions with interactive displays; and, post-secondary education opportunities in the industry.

Each session will be kicked-off by a keynote address from the nationally recognized AgroLiquid CEO and President, Troy Bancroft. Students will then move into the career fair where they will visit preselected stations of jobs that have sparked their interest in both traditional and non-traditional agriculture fields. The education session features representatives from the Ovid-Elsie Agriculture program, Food and Natural Resources track, Baker College, and Michigan State University.
“The survey completed earlier this year following the inaugural event indicated 92% of the students learned about agricultural careers of which they were not previously aware,” said Dru L. Mitchell, President and CEO of the Clinton County Economic Alliance and co-chair of CCN. “And, encouraging to the agriculture and related business communities is that 55% of the students expressed interest in a career featured at Ag Expo8.”

Sponsors and Career Fair Presenters

Agri-Nutrition Consulting
AgroLiquid
AIS
Bader and Sons
Clinton Conservation District
Clinton County Economic Alliance
Clinton County Farm Bureau
Clinton County RESA & Career Connections
Clinton Veterinary Services
Greenstone Farm Credit Services
Harvey Milling Company
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Michigan Farm Bureau
Michigan Farmer Magazine
MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
MSU College of Veterinary Medicine
Riverview Dairy
Tubergen Dairy

About the CCN and MCAN

The Clinton Career Network is a collaborative effort of leaders from K-12 and higher education and Clinton County elected officials, business community, and non-profit organizations. This team is committed to increasing Post-Secondary readiness, enrollment, and completion percentages in Clinton County by ensuring students have the resources and support they need to be successful in whatever path they choose following high school.

The Michigan College Access Network is the primary supporter for CCN and 37 other high quality, sustainable networks across the state. Additional backing for CCN is from Clinton County and The Rotary Club of St. Johns. For more information about CCN please contact Dru L. Mitchell at 517-669-1345.

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Dr. Charles Ballard to Speak at Clinton County Economic Alliance Forum

The Clinton County Economic Alliance (CCEA) is pleased to welcome distinguished economist, Dr. Charles Ballard, to the next Member Meeting & Community Forum. The event is on Thursday, December 15, 8:00 a.m. at AgroLiquid, 3055 West M-21 in St. Johns. CCEA welcomes all Clinton County residents and business owners to the meeting. There is no charge to attendees.

Dr. Ballard is Director of the quarterly State of the State Survey for Michigan and Professor of Economics at Michigan State University. He is widely published and well-known for his ability to communicate the complexities of economics in everyday language.

“We are fortunate to be able to present such a thoughtful, entertaining, and highly respected speaker to the Clinton County community,” said Dru L. Mitchel, CCEA President & CEO. “An expert in all areas of economics including Michigan and national economies, we look forward to hearing Dr. Ballard’s thoughts on the effect the recent election will have on our economy.”
Those interested in attending are requested to make a reservation by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 9, to 517-669-1345 or
carrs@cceami.org.

About CCEA
For nearly 10 years the Clinton County Economic Alliance has provided one-stop business assistance to companies based in Clinton County. The CCEA is a private-public partnership funded by its members who represent the business community, educational institutions, and local governments.

Fill a Cop Car is December 3

On Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Law Enforcement officers throughout Clinton County will be asking for your help. Their goal is to Fill the Cop Cars with groceries.

Officers will be at your local grocery stores and police departments with the purpose of helping to fill our local food banks with non-perishable food items.

Police Officers chose their profession so that they can help others. During this time of year they often experience families in need, but don’t have the ability to help directly. By filling the cop cars, they can see to it that those who need a helping hand can get it.

We are asking that you purchase an extra item or two and help us help those that are less fortunate. The back seats of the patrol vehicles are usually used to transport people that have run afoul of the law. Help us put them to good use.

Officers will be at the following locations in Clinton County:

– Kroger, 900 S. Business 127, St. Johns
– Wal-Mart, 1165 Superior Drive, St. Johns
– Bath Township Hall, 14480 Webster Road, Bath
– Montecello’s Market, 16912 Marsh Road, Bath
– Village Food Pride, 501 S. Main Street, Ovid

All food collected at these locations will be donated to the food banks at Capital Area Community Services and Redeemer United Methodist Church in DeWitt. The officers of the St. Johns Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Bath Township Police Department, and Ovid Police Department appreciate your generosity during this holiday season.

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Memories of Christmas Past – December 2

Travel through time to Christmas in the first half of the 20th century by visiting the St. Johns Depot, 107 E. Railroad Street, on December 2, 4:30 – 10:00 PM, and December 3, Noon – 4:00 PM.

See ornaments from the Victorian era, from the 40s and 50s, a bubble-light tree and a tree decked out in patriotic ornaments. Sitting among the trees will be toys from bygone years, including a Lionel train from the 50s. All of these are the genuine articles, with the ornaments and trees donated and Lionel train for this occasion by Bill and Sharon Irrer, who have collected Christmas items over several decades. The toys are on loan from the Old Crow Antique Shop owned by Jan Seperic.

Additional features include old-fashioned Christmas “crackers” to the first 100 people on Friday; a chance to win old and new Christmas items, and a children’s activity area. You can view the working HO train layout in the east room as well as tour the historic train cars sitting on the tracks.

“Memories of Christmas Past” is being held in conjunction with the St. Johns Festival of Lights on December 2, and it will continue on the afternoon of December 3. This event is being offered by the Clinton Northern Railway branch of the Clinton County Arts Council at no charge, but donations are encouraged for the supplies needed to continue the restoration of the railcars.

Clinton County Arts Council is grateful to receive operational support from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. All funds used for the railcar restoration are raised by the Friends of the Railroad Committee, and 90% of the work to restore the cars is done by volunteers.

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Toys for Tots collection sites open – through December 15

The Marine Corp Toys for Tots campaign has begun in Clinton County. The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce, which is the sponsoring organization for Toys for Tots in Clinton County has delivered over 35 collection boxes to businesses throughout the county that will collect toys through Thursday, Dec 15 for Clinton County children.

For anyone donating a toy, please consider this. The campaign always gets lots of games, generic baby dolls, Barbie dolls, generic cars and trucks, footballs and basketballs. Some of the most popular items requested this year are anything drawing, minecraft, Trolls and Beat Bo. We are also always in need of things like craft kits for older girls, current CD’s, DVD’s and books from recent movie releases, sports apparel (MSU hats and shirts), fishing or hunting items, etc.

If you place a toy in one of these boxes you can be assured the toy will go to a child that lives in Clinton County:

In Bath: Bath Township Office

In DeWitt: Bridge Street Hair, DeWitt City Police, DeWitt District Library, DeWitt Township Police and Fire (both locations), Mercantile Bank, New Beginnings Learn and Play and Verizon Wireless.

In Fowler: Dollar General, Journey Federal Credit Union, Ken’s Kar Kare and Main Street Pizza;

In Ovid: Dollar General, Journey Federal Credit Union and Main Street Pizza;

In St. Johns: Barber’s Floors and More, Big Boy, Briggs Public Library, Bruno’s Bar, Clinton County Chamber of Commerce, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Dollar General, FirstMerit Bank, Journey Federal Credit Union, Mercantile Bank, Peebles, St. Johns Police Department, Tractor Supply, Walgreens and Walmart.

In Wacousta: Watertown Charter Township.

If your family needs assistance with clothing, food and toys for the holidays, please register with Capital Area Community Services at 989-224-6702. If you need assistance with just toys and you are not registered with another agency, call Clinton County Toys for Tots at 989-224-7248 or email ccchamber@4wbi.net.

If you have any questions about the Toys for Tots campaign, toys needs or toy distribution, contact Brenda Terpening at the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248.

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Understanding and Developing Family Morals, Values and Rules – December 7

This series will give parents an opportunity to discuss, do activities, and learn strategies on each topic to enhance their parenting skills. In the first session, parents will increase their understanding of Nurturing Parenting, a proven approach experienced by hundreds of thousands of families worldwide.

MSU Extension in Clinton County invites interested parents of children birth to 8 years old to come to participate in this series. Sessions are from 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm, at the Bath Township Library Center (14033 Webster Rd) in Bath. Please call in advance to register at 989-224-5241. This is a free series open to the community; attend one session or all eight.

Sessions Schedule Wednesdays:

December 14: Praising Children and their Behavior & Understanding Discipline
December 21: Learning Positive Ways to Deal with Stress and Anger

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Briggs Library News

Farewell – The Library is bidding farewell to two dedicated employees in Dec. Maureen Durbin will be retiring after eleven year of service to the Library on Dec. 9. Carol Fedewa will be retiring after twenty years of service on Dec. 29. These two wonderful individuals will be greatly missed by patrons and their co-workers. The Library wishes them well.

Tween – ‘Tweens ages 10-12 can join us on Tuesday, December 6 from 6:30-7:30 for a series of “A Minute to Win It” Christmas games. Registration is required and is now available.

Family Game Night – It will be a night of fun for the whole family on Thursday, December 15 from 6:30-7:30. We will provide the games and the snacks, and you can compete as a family in new and classic card and board games. Registration is required and is now available.

Kids, Cartoons, & Crafts – Children ages 5-9 are invited to join us on Thursday, December 22 from 6:30-7:30 for a special Christmas edition of this festive program. We will have a snack, play a game, build a simple craft, and watch a special holiday-themed episode of the Animaniacs! Registration is required and is now available.

Pre-Reader Program – Shake It “UP!” Registration for this upbeat program for children ages 4 thru 6 years old begins on Thursday, December 15th. We will enjoy stories, music, and some very creative movement! This 6 week session will be on Thursday evenings, 6:30-7pm and runs January 12th through February 16th, 6:30-7pm. We’re going to “MOVE IT MOVE IT”

Junior Readers – Christmas Around the World – Monday, December 19th from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Join us for a
discussion of Christmas traditions, a snack and a Holiday craft. A worksheet is available at the circulation desk
or online. Open to Grades 2 – 4. Registration is now open.

Container Garden – During this new program participants will hear from a woman who makes container gardens, also known as Fairy Gardens. Each session will feature demonstrations, tips & tricks, and hands-on creation time. We will meet Mondays evenings, 6:30-7:45, January 23-February 13. This program is for adults and for children ages 8 and up who attend with an adult. More information about types of containers and suggested materials will be available as the program nears. Registration for this free program is required, and opens Tuesday, December 27.

Adult Coloring Program – The library will be offering adult coloring programs on the first Thursday of each month. Our first session is Thursday, January 5 from 6:00-7:30. Participants are welcome to use the materials we provide or bring their own at this self-directed, come and go as you please program. Registration begins Thursday, December 8.

Future Library Closures– At the Oct. 27th Library Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the 2017 closure schedule. The Library will be closed four and a half fewer days in 2017 than it has been in previous years. The Library will go back to being open on Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Veteran’s Day, the Saturday after Thanksgiving and from 10:00-1:00 on Good Friday. This change was made possible by the community’s recent financial support of the Library.

Library Closure – The Library will be closed on Friday Dec. 16 from 11:15a.m. – 1:15p.m. for the City of St. Johns Awards Luncheon. The Library will be closed on December 24 and 26 for the Christmas Holiday and on December 31and January 2 for the New Year’s Holiday. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout these closures.

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Contact Information:

Library Director: Sara Morrison
Phone: 989-224-4702 * Fax: 989-224-1205
E-mail: director@briggsdistrictlibrary.org
Street address: 108 E Railroad * Saint Johns, MI 48879

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Snowshoe Building Workshop at Sleepy Hollow State Park

Sleepy Hollow State Park will offer several two-day snowshoe building classes in December, January and February. Participants will learn to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes similar to the ones Native Americans made for generations.

Class Schedule: Friday, Dec. 2nd: 5-9pm (Part 1)
Saturday, Dec 3rd: 9am-1pm (Part 2)

Friday, Dec. 9th: 5-9pm (Part 1)
Saturday, Dec 10th: 9am-1pm (Part 2)

Friday, Jan. 6th: 5-9pm (Part 1)
Saturday, Jan. 7th: 9am-1pm (Part 2)

Friday, Jan. 20th: 5-9pm (Part 1)
Saturday, Jan. 21st: 9am-1pm (Part 2)

Friday, Feb. 3rd: 5-9pm (Part 1)
Saturday, Feb. 4th: 9am-1pm (Part 2)

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes is $180 and includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, high-quality bindings and personal instruction.

Class size is limited to a maximum of 8 participants; reservations are required. Classes are designed to be fun, informative and interesting. Because this is an activity that requires concentration over long periods of time, it is recommended for ages 16 and older.

These handmade snowshoes can be used for hiking throughout the winter, given as gifts, or used as a home decoration. Snowshoeing is an easy, inexpensive way to get outside and burn some calories during the winter months.

All classes are held at Sleepy Hollow State Park’s headquarters. The park is located at 7835 E. Price Rd., Laingsburg (Clinton County). Please note the classes are split over two days.

To make a reservation or inquire about additional information, please call Sleepy Hollow State Park at 517-651-6217 or email Denise Smith at smithd8@michigan.gov.

A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry to Sleepy Hollow State Park. Learn more about how the Recreation Passport gains you access to Michigan state parks and more at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

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Special Recycling and Waste Collection Events

Mark your calendars and spread the word! The Clinton County Department of Waste Management is sponsoring several collection events.

For more information or to learn about other disposal and recycling options that may be available, call 989-224-5186, send an email to recycle@clinton-county.org or visit online at www.clinton-county.org and look for the link to the Department of Waste Management.

Medication Disposal Programs

Protect your family, pets, the community and the environment by properly disposing of unwanted or expired medications through one of the programs noted below. Do not put medications “down the drain” or in the trash. They can end up in surface waters and negatively impact local ecosystems. The preferred disposal option is through special events which ensure safe disposal through incineration. Please keep your medications in their original containers but be sure to black out any personal information.

The Sparrow Clinton Memorial Pharmacy in St Johns (989) 224-8155 and Central Pharmacy in Laingsburg (517) 651-1777 can accept all non-controlled pills, tablets and liquids year round, free of charge. Please call them for additional information and hours. Controlled medications (narcotics and behavioral medications) can be safely and securely dropped off at the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office lobby Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm. More drop off locations can be found online at www.capitalcountiescommit.org and www.takebackmeds.org.

Friday December 9th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Pharmacy at 901 South Oakland Street in St. Johns. Be sure to black out personal information but leave the drug name visible! Please do NOT bring needles, Epi pens, inhalers, aerosols or patches – These items can only be handled at the annual spring Clean Community Event and the Free For Fall Event.

Saturday February 11th from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center of the St. Jude Catholic Parish at 801 North Bridge Street in DeWitt. Be sure to black out personal information but leave the drug name visible! Please do NOT bring needles, Epi pens, inhalers, aerosols or patches – These items can only be handled at the annual spring Clean Community Event and the Free For Fall Event.

Saturday March 11th from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Bath Township Senior Center at 14480 Webster Road in Bath. Be sure to black out personal information but leave the drug name visible! Please do NOT bring needles, Epi pens, inhalers, aerosols or patches – These items can only be handled at the annual spring Clean Community Event and the Free For Fall Event.

Saturday April 8th from 9:00am to 2:00pm at RecycleRama! Ingham County Health Department at 5303 S. Cedar Street in Lansing. Be sure to black out personal information but leave the drug name visible! Please do NOT bring needles, Epi pens, inhalers, aerosols or patches – These items can only be handled at the annual spring Clean Community Event and the Free For Fall Event.

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NAMI to host informational meeting – December 12

NAMI Lansing (National Alliance on Mental Health) and Community Mental Health –Clinton-Eaton-Ingham are hosting a Community Informational Meeting regarding Mental Health on December 12, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. in the Peckham Community Room 3510 Capital City Blvd. Lansing located near the entrance to Capital City International Airport.

The event titled, Mental Health Services Update: Celebrating Local Successes and Meeting the Challenges Ahead will highlight new mental health collaborations in the Lansing area and will include updates and discussion of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services proposed Section 298 initiative recommendations to integrate physical health and behavioral health.

Local collaborations to be highlighted include the recent development of Crisis Intervention Team Training that prepares police officers in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties to intervene when a person with mental illness is in crisis. People will be able to ask questions on how to arrange to get a trained police officer, what will happen to their loved one when the police arrive, and where will they go for follow up care.

Another collaborative effort highlighted will be the 55th mental health and drug courts that have been established and how persons with mental illness and involved with the law may access these courts. There will also be information on mental health services now available in our local jails.

There will also be information on federal initiatives such as Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics Demonstration Projects, Mental Health Reform Act, and the future of the Affordable Care Act. Information will also be available regarding Michigan’s MIAble program.

Guest speakers include: Senator Curtis Hertel Jr., Judge Donald Allen, Judge Thomas Boyd, Robert Sheehan, CEO, Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards, Ericanne Spence, CMHA-CEI Director of Substance Abuse Services and Corrections Mental Health, and others.

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CASA Volunteer Advocates Needed

During this season of giving, have you considered giving the gift of your time?

CASA-The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is accepting applications for our next Court Appointed Special Advocate Volunteer Training. The next volunteer training will be in early 2017.

CASA Volunteer Advocates provide a voice to Clinton County Children who are in foster care. Applicants should have ample time to visit their appointed child every 7 to 10 days. Activities during visits may include playing games, playing outside, helping with homework, coloring, etc.

For more information, please visit the website ClintonCountyCASA.org or contact the office at clintoncountycasa@gmail.com or 517-599-7145.

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Mark Your Calendar

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Breakfast with Santa and Kids Crafts December 3

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The St. Johns Community Band presents the 2016 Holiday Music Spectacular on Friday, December 9, 2016 at the Wilson Center Auditorium.

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Paine-Gillam-Scott Museum open for the Christmas season on Wednesdays 2:00 to 6:30 pm and Sundays 1:00 to 4:00 pm through Sunday, December 18.

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Helping Hands Dinner Raffle will be held on Saturday, February 4 at Smith Hall

SJACF supports Winter Festival of Lights

Bright, twinkling lights are an integral part of the holiday season – a perfect symbol of cheer and good-will. Thousands of those colorful beams will bring that spirit into the lives of area residents at the Winter Festival of Lights, planned for December 2 in and around downtown St. Johns.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there to help light the Christmas tree and invite guests to view the numerous new light displays that will be positioned along the rail-trail near the Depot. Funding for the displays that will be used at future Festivals was provided by donations from businesses and grants from organizations like the St. Johns Area Community Fund.

“We were thrilled to provide a grant to the Winter Festival of Lights in its first year,” says Jason Denovich, SJACF Board of Directors member who is also a member of the Festival committee. “Supporting this project will illuminate and bring together the community which is exactly what the St. Johns Area Community Fund is designed to inspire.”

Dan Redman, Executive Director of the St. Johns Principal Shopping District and Downtown Development Authority, agrees and is appreciative of the donation. “Brenda Barber provided information to the SJACF, and we are extremely grateful for the $2,200 grant award.”

Barber’s initial idea for the Festival has quite literally come to light in the past few months. She and other committee members have worked on events for the celebration that will run from 4:30 to 10 p.m. In addition to traditional holiday happenings – like the Live Nativity, Santa Parade, lighting of the tree, youth visits with Santa and story-telling at Briggs District Library – an assortment of new activities for the young and young-at-heart insure lots of holiday “light” fun for everyone.

The Depot area and rail-trail is a focal part of the celebration that includes tours of the train cars and displays of Victorian holiday decorations and Christmas trees sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council. Arts and crafts, cookie decorating, wreath-making and other fun activities will take place at businesses and office storefronts throughout the downtown area, and numerous food vendors will offer holiday treats. Guests can also take wagon rides around the town to check out holiday lights and vote for their favorite “best” decorated homes and businesses.

Even with all the fun things to do and see, the new displays at and around the rail-trail and Depot are the main “lights” of the Festival, Redman says. “We are looking forward to this first year of the Festival and know the light displays that we were able to purchase will be part of this community event for years to come.”

For detailed Festival information and a complete schedule of events visit http://www.downtownstjohns.org/downtownstjohnsmi.html

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Memories of Christmas Past

Travel through time to Christmas in the first half of the 20th century by visiting the St. Johns Depot, 107 E. Railroad Street, on December 2, 4:30 – 10:00 PM, and December 3, Noon – 4:00 PM.

See ornaments from the Victorian era, from the 40s and 50s, a bubble-light tree and a tree decked out in patriotic ornaments. Sitting among the trees will be toys from bygone years, including a Lionel train from the 50s. All of these are the genuine articles, with the ornaments and trees donated and Lionel train for this occasion by Bill and Sharon Irrer, who have collected Christmas items over several decades. The toys are on loan from the Old Crow Antique Shop owned by Jan Seperic.

Additional features include old-fashioned Christmas “crackers” to the first 100 people on Friday; a chance to win old and new Christmas items, and a children’s activity area. You can view the working HO train layout in the east room as well as tour the historic train cars sitting on the tracks.

“Memories of Christmas Past” is being held in conjunction with the St. Johns Festival of Lights on December 2, and it will continue on the afternoon of December 3. This event is being offered by the Clinton Northern Railway branch of the Clinton County Arts Council at no charge, but donations are encouraged for the supplies needed to continue the restoration of the railcars.

Clinton County Arts Council is grateful to receive operational support from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. All funds used for the railcar restoration are raised by the Friends of the Railroad Committee, and 90% of the work to restore the cars is done by volunteers.

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Fill a Cop Car is December 3

On Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Law Enforcement officers throughout Clinton County will be asking for your help. Their goal is to Fill the Cop Cars with groceries.

Officers will be at your local grocery stores and police departments with the purpose of helping to fill our local food banks with non-perishable food items.

Police Officers chose their profession so that they can help others. During this time of year they often experience families in need, but don’t have the ability to help directly. By filling the cop cars, they can see to it that those who need a helping hand can get it.

We are asking that you purchase an extra item or two and help us help those that are less fortunate. The back seats of the patrol vehicles are usually used to transport people that have run afoul of the law. Help us put them to good use.

Officers will be at the following locations in Clinton County:

– Kroger, 900 S. Business 127, St. Johns
– Wal-Mart, 1165 Superior Drive, St. Johns
– Bath Township Hall, 14480 Webster Road, Bath
– Montecello’s Market, 16912 Marsh Road, Bath
– Village Food Pride, 501 S. Main Street, Ovid

All food collected at these locations will be donated to the food banks at Capital Area Community Services and Redeemer United Methodist Church in DeWitt. The officers of the St. Johns Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Bath Township Police Department, and Ovid Police Department appreciate your generosity during this holiday season.

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Museum open for Christmas beginning November 30

The Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum invites you to a Victorian Christmas celebration starting November 30. The house has a fresh cut tree and greens, decorations that are appropriate for the late 1800’s through early 1900’s with lots of antique toys under the tree.

The museum is located at 106 Maple Street, west of the Courthouse and is open for the Christmas season on Wednesdays 2:00 to 6:30 pm and Sundays 1:00 to 4:00 pm through Sunday, December 18. For further information, please contact the Museum at PGSMuseum@hotmail.com, call 989-224-2894 or 989-292-9096. The website is PGSmuseum.com.