Category: News

SJ students honored at Voice of Democracy Awards Banquet

St. Johns students were honored January 7 at the 2015-16 Voice of Democracy Awards Banquet held at VFW Mint City Post 4113 in St. Johns. The annual event recognizes students in senior and junior divisions for their award-winning essays.

Post Commander Bill Scott welcomed the students and their family members and introduced honored guests including Post 4113 Chaplain Dennis Wright, Post 4113 Senior Vice Commander Larry Varney, Post 4113 VOD Master of Ceremonies Dale Brown, St. Johns High School Principal Mark Palmer, St. Johns Middle School Principal Adel DiOrio, SJHS VOD coordinators Dave Stukey and Dave Mariage, and SJMS VOD coordinators Jill Loznak and Amber Guerrero. Bob Etherton delivered the keynote address.

Judges for both divisions were also recognized: Shelly Bessel, Corinna Batora and Christina Klark. Larry and Shirley Varney coordinated the 2015-16 VOD contest and dinner.

This year’s theme for the VOD senior division was “My Vision for America.” First place winner was Autumn Rey Petrick; second place, Madison Crum; third place, Ethan Webster.

The Patriot’s Pen junior division theme was “What Freedom Means to Me.” First place winner was Tessa Link; second place, Reagann Meyers; third place, Gabrielle Dobernick.

Read Tessa’s essay.

First through third place winners in both divisions received VOD trophies and award certificates along with awards of $100, first; $75, second; $50, third.

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Arts Council Gallery undergoing renovations

Gallery renovations are well underway. The floor and wall repairs have been completed. All the walls have fresh paint. New flooring is being installed, and organizers look forward to re-opening on schedule on January 28th.

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At the Wilson Center Auditorium – January 15, 19

The Wilson Collective is a program that presents all-ages concerts and events for the St. Johns area that benefit Michigan musicians using a wonderful, historic venue, the Wilson Center Auditorium. The Collective is looking to form an all-ages community with a passion for local music, making contemporary music available to all, especially teens who normally aren’t able to attend live performances.

The Collective Concerts are intended to bring young people and others together, presenting them with a more liberal and alternative place to enjoy many different types of music as well as inspiring them to become more invested in the local music scene. The Wilson Collective also brings a new venue to the contemporary music scene, presenting Michigan musicians with additional opportunities to perform, displaying their creative works. Concerts are scheduled on Friday evenings throughout the winter and start at 7:00 p.m. The first two concerts are coming up on January 15th and 29th. There will be a small admission charge that will go towards the auditorium renovation project. Check the web site or Facebook page for more details on upcoming concerts and events.

The Wilson Collective kicks off its winter contemporary music series with a wonderful concert featuring two local rock bands and other performers from St. Johns, DeWitt, Lansing and Grand Ledge. This opening concert will take place on Friday evening, January 15 starting at 7:00 in the historic Wilson Center Auditorium.

“Synergy,” a popular local band made up of St. Johns High School students, Chase Brya, bass/vocals, and Josh Weinberg, guitar/vocals, along St. Johns Middle School students Alex Pung, guitar/vocals, Jon Collins, keyboard/vocals, and Tom Brubaker, drums, will perform a set of modern and classic rock. “This band performed at the Performance Shell this past summer as part of the ‘Best of Clinton County’ evening and did a great job,” says William Tennant, WC Auditorium Coordinator. “It will be fun to hear them again on this concert.”

The band, “Fire and Water” will also be presenting a set of their classic rock and blues numbers on the concert. This local favorite is made up of adults and includes; Eric and Andrew Pittman, guitarists from St. Johns, Lindsay Luoma, keyboard/vocals from Lansing, John Kelly, bass/guitar/vocals from DeWitt, and Dan Rafail, drums from Grand Ledge. This group is also expecting a special guest vocalist to join them that evening.

The concert will also include some students of John Kelly who will each be doing a number before the bands perform. The students range in age from 5th grade through 10th and include; Kennedy Sturgis, Carly Waire, Lindsey Edwards, Keegen Pratt, Gabby Colarossi and Maria Biewer. “Synergy” is also a product of John Kelly’s great studio of young musicians. “One of the objectives of The Wilson Collective is to offer a performance opportunity to young local musician, presenting them with a performance in this beautiful venue,” states Aidan Pope, Wilson Collective Concert Promoter. “It’s important to foster their growth, getting them excited about performing as they perfect their musical style.”

Various artists covered during the show will include Cam, Meghan Trainor, Adele, Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana, Bad Company, Shawn Mendes, stevie ray vaughan. and more.

There will be a $5 admission charge, which will go towards the Wilson Center Auditorium renovation project. The WC Auditorium is located at 101 W. Cass St. in downtown St. Johns, just south of the Court House. For more information about The Wilson Collective or upcoming concerts and events, please visit the Wilson Center Auditorium Facebook page and/or web site at www.wilsoncenterauditorium.org.

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Rock Concert set for January 15
The Wilson Collective is presenting its first all-ages rock concert of the year on Friday, Jan. 15 starting at 7:00 p.m. in the Wilson Center Auditorium. The concert will include the local bands “Synergy” and “Fire and Water”, along with several individual performers performing a wide variety of cover tunes. It will be a great evening of local rock music. There will be a $5 admission charge, which will go towards the auditorium renovation project. The WC Auditorium is located at 101 W. Cass St. in St. Johns, just south of the Courthouse.

Open Mic Night set for January 18
The Wilson Collective is sponsoring its first Open Mic Night of the year in the Wilson Center Auditorium, 101 W. Cass St., St Johns, on Monday, Jan. 18 starting at 7:00 p.m. Tell a story, sing a song, recite a poem, talk about a piece of art, act out a monologue, show a video or some pictures… Come and Share – Come and Listen. A $5 fee goes towards the auditorium renovation project.

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Zink inducted into Basketball Coaches Hall of Honor

Congratulations to Peg Zink on her induction into the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan (BCAM) Hall of Honor in the category of Friends of Basketball. Peg was recognized at a recent basketball game for her over 22 years of service to the SJHS Athletic Department.

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Board Elections for the Friends of the FMCIS Trail

The Friends of the Fred Meijer Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee Trail will be holding elections at their annual membership meeting on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 to fill vacancies for three directors whose terms will expire in March of 2016. Each of the vacancies is for three year terms for positions in Clinton, Ionia and Shiawassee counties.

Individuals interested in running for these positions must reside in one of these three counties and if elected, would represent their respective county at monthly meetings. If you are interested in running for one of these positions, please e-mail us at cistrail@gmail.com no later than Friday, January 22, 2016. Please include background information on any past experience that would relate to trail board activities.

The Friends of the Fred Meijer Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee Trail is a non-profit 501c3 organization whose mission is to create a safe, multi-use trail for non-motorized recreation utilizing the former Central Michigan railroad corridor between Ionia and Shiawassee counties.

Applications are Being Accepted for 2016 Spring CASA Advocate Training

What better way is there to make a difference in this new year than by serving as a CASA Volunteer Advocate?

CASA Advocates are the voice for children who are involved in court proceedings due to no fault of their own. Advocates visit their appointed child every 7 to 10 days–during the visits, they play games, draw, help with homework, and listen. Through this consistent relationship, Advocates are able to learn about the child and report to the court how the child is doing throughout the court process.

For more information on how you can make a difference, please visit the CASA website or contact our office 517-599-7145. You can make a difference in the life of a child who has experienced abuse or neglect.

Carrie Morrison Hartenburg invited CASA Executive Director Kelly Schafer to speak to the St. Johns Lioness Club. These supporters of CASA originally made the first financial gift to the program.

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Protect your family against radon; test your home

The old saying, “what you don’t know can’t hurt you” certainly doesn’t apply when it comes to the presence of radon in your home. According to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), radon invades nearly one in eight Michigan homes; could yours be the one?

This naturally occurring radioactive gas is found in almost any kind of soil or rock. It travels through the ground to the air above, and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation, floor or walls. Any home – old or new – may have a radon problem.

Radon has no warning signs; it can’t be seen, smelled or tasted, and contrary to what some might think, it does not cause headache, nausea, or fatigue.

What it can cause, however, is lung cancer. The Surgeon General has warned that breathing air containing radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.

“There is only one way to know for sure if your home has an unsafe level of radon,” said Bob Gouin, Environmental Health Division Director for the Mid-Michigan District Health Department (MMDHD), “and that is to test, and now is the ideal time.”

Winter is the best time to test for radon because doors and windows are typically kept shut so the radon level isn’t diluted by the introduction of fresh air. It is recommended that every residence be tested for radon by taking a short-term test first. Short-term test kits may be obtained at MMDHD free-of-charge and take only a few minutes to administer. If the result is four picocuries per liter of air (4 pCi/l) or higher, you should follow up with a long-term test to measure the year-round average. Long-term kits may be purchased at most hardware stores and are also available at MMDHD for $25.00.

If unsafe radon levels are found in your home, it is very important that you take immediate action using a trained and certified radon mitigation (reduction) contractor who will guarantee results below 4 pCi/l.

To obtain a radon test kit, or request a list of local certified radon remediation contractors, contact MMDHD at:

Clinton County Branch Office: 1307 E Townsend Road, St. Johns – Phone: 989-227-3107.
Gratiot County Branch Office: 151 Commerce Drive, Ithaca – Phone: 989-875-1020.
Montcalm County Branch Office: 615 N State Street, Stanton – Phone: 989-831-3607.

For additional information, visit MMDHDs website at www.mmdhd.org or the MDEQs website at www.michigan.gov/deq.

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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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Grief Share seminar – starting January 25

Grief Share is a 13 week seminar/support group for people grieving the death of someone close. Each weekly meeting centers around a topic important to the grief recovery process.

The weekly meetings will be built around three components: 1) Video Seminar 2) Support group discussion and 3) personal study and Reflection. It’s a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. At Grief Share, you’ll learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life. There is an optional workbook available that follows the Video seminars.

This Grief Share group will meet every Monday starting January 25, 2016 at 7 pm at Pilgrim UMC in the chapel. Please feel free to contact Belinda Walker at 989.436.3475 or Tami Nelson at 989.224.9295 with any questions.

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Friends of The Maple River to meet January 20

On Wednesday, January 20th, the Friends of the Maple River (FOMR) will hold its bi-monthly meeting at the Maple Rapids Community center, located at 209 Maple street in Maple Rapids. The meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The guest speaker will be Dr. David Lusch from Michigan State University. His topic will be the glacial history of central Michigan and it’s impact on the formation of the Maple River watershed. Anyone interested in the Maple River or its glacial historyis invited to attend the meeting.

There will also be a short business session to discuss FOMR activities for 2016. One important item is participation in the March Quiet Waters Symposium at Michigan State University.

The others are planning for the annual Maple River River clean-up in April, and assisting the Friends of the Looking Glass River with their log jam removal program that is part of their preparation for their upcoming 2016 Looking Glass River Expedition scheduled for June.

The mission of FOMR is to help preserve, improve and promote the wise use of the Maple River and its watershed. And to work with units of Government, municipalities, organizations, businesses and individuals to help resolve resource and conservation issues.

For additional information about the Friends of the Maple River or the upcoming meeting in Maple Rapids, check out the organization and Like Us on Facebook at “Friends of the Maple River”.

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Baker College selected Top School in Military Guide to Higher Education

Baker College has been designated a Top School by Military Advanced Education & Transition (MAE&T) in its 2016 Guide to Colleges & Universities. MAE&T is a journal of higher education for service members and veterans making the transition from military to the civilian sector.

The guide provides the foundational information a prospective student would use to frame his or her educational needs. Rankings are the result of a questionnaire completed by more than 600 institutions of higher learning that measures best practices in military and veteran education.

The schools are ranked on six measures:
· military culture
· financial aid
· flexibility
· general support
· on-campus support
· online support services

Assisting MAE&T in developing the measures and questionnaire was an advisory board of educational and government experts along with criteria based on recommendations from the Department of Veterans Affairs and other military services.

“This is another significant designation by veteran-focused media that identifies Baker College as a top choice for active and veteran members of the military,” said Christy Brasfield, MBA, Baker College advisor and military education officer and U.S. Air Force veteran. “Our military services team is focused on helping military-connected students obtain quality higher education degrees. Some of the benefits offered to those with military experience include comprehensive educational counseling, waived fees, reduced tuition and lifetime career services.”

The Baker College military services team assists military-connected students in identifying educational benefits and other needed services, such medical claims and emergency needs. This assistance is provided at on-ground campuses and virtually for those enrolled in online programs. Outside agency representatives also visit campus monthly as additional resources.

In addition to individual services, Baker College has a student veteran organization and quarterly events for military-connected students.

MAE&T Editor Kelly Fodel said, “Our goal is to be a dynamic resource for active service members and those who have moved from the military to their civilian careers, helping them find the school that best fits their plans for the future. This year’s guide is our most comprehensive to date, thanks to our newly established advisory board. The board evaluated the drafts of the questionnaire, made pages of notes and suggestions and helped to redefine questions for clarity.”

The guide is available at www.mae-kmi.com.

For more information about Baker College military services, contact Brasfield at 810.766.2212 or military@baker.edu, or visit www.baker.edu.

SJHS graduate selected as Fulbright Scholar

Erin Fedewa, a 2008 graduate of St. Johns High School, is heading to Trinidad and Tobago in February as a Fulbright Scholar, doing research in marine sciences, specifically fisheries.

Fedewa says she discovered her passion for fisheries and marine biology during a summer internship at Shedd’s Aquarium in Chicago that she completed the summer before her senior year at SJHS.

Following graduation she studied marine science at the University of South Carolina. While at USC she was a fouryear member of the cross country team, starting for three years, and was an active member of a marine science club where she did outreach programs at nearby schools. In her “spare time” she did independent research in the lab during all four years, and founded a “Green Initiative Committee” that worked diligently to encourage others to recycle, focusing on sustainability projects.

Through her work in this area, Fedewa was awarded a $10,000 grant to create the university’s first “carbon neutral” basketball game. She organized students to plant trees to offset the carbon emissions from one basketball game.

During the summer before her senior year at USC, Fedewa worked under scholarship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and completed research on bluefin tunas. She worked on identifying their age through their ear bones, called otoliths. She explains how these ear bones are like rings on trees, allowing humans to determine their age and growth over time.

Fedewa’s passion for marine science and sustainability were instrumental in her receiving a Udall national scholarship for $7,000 and NOAA’s Hollings Scholarship for $16,000.

As she approached graduation from USC she began to look at master’s programs across the country. Through her search efforts she discovered a professor at Oregon State University who was looking for a graduate assistant for a research project. Having never been to Oregon, Fedewa reached out to the professor and within a week she was offered an opportunity to work with the professor, completing research while obtaining her master’s degree in May 2015, under scholarship.

Prior to her graduation from OSU, Fedewa was encouraged, by her sister, Lauren, to apply to become a Fulbright Scholar. After carefully researching the Fulbright program, Fedewa determined that her best chance of being accepted was to apply for a research program in Trinidad and Tobago, an island nation just north of Venezuela in South America.

Following graduation from OSU, Fedewa took a temporary research job in Alabama with a team doing research in the Gulf of Mexico. During her work there, she received word that she had been accepted as a Fulbright Scholar. She plans to return to Oregon this month to complete work on a presentation for a conference in Alaska before beginning work in Trinidad and Tobago.

Fedewa credits her educational experiences at St. Johns Public Schools for preparing her for these experiences and her future, stating that “always having something going on other than academics just teaches you how to manage stress so much better.” While in high school Fedewa was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, and she credits all of her teachers for their support.

“I think St. Johns has so many amazing teachers,” she says, “and I had so many great experiences with so many teachers. They really encouraged us to pursue our passions and are really supportive.”

When asked what advice she would give younger students she says to “experience and experiment; keep an open door to new opportunities and experiences.” She says students should have “the ability to keep an open mind and try a lot of different things, take a lot of different classes, and get involved in a lot of different organizations, it really rounds you out as a person.” She goes on to say that it is important to “meet a lot of people rather than just staying with one group and just doing one thing.”

St. Johns Public Schools is proud of our graduate and Fulbright Scholar, Erin Fedewa. She is the daughter of Tom Fedewa and Kristine Ranger.

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City releases draft of 5-year Recreation Plan

The City of St. Johns has released the draft copy of the 2016-2020 Parks and Recreation 5 Year Master Plan. The Plan was prepared by RJM Design.

Dowload a copy here.

Please email any comments or suggestions to: bschafer@ci.saint-johns.mi.us.

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VanRooyen named Chair of Emergency Medicine

Interim Emergency Medicine Chair Michael VanRooyen, MD, MPH, has been appointed chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Health Care in Boston, effective January 1.

VanRooyen has been serving as interim chair since January 1, 2015, when Ron M. Walls, MD, assumed the role of BWHC executive vice president and chief operating officer. As interim chair, VanRooyen and the Emergency Department (ED) team have launched several new initiatives including the integration of Partners eCare, the expansion of global partnerships and the design of an expanded ED with a new Oncology Emergency Care Unit, a plan set for completion in 2017.

VanRooyen, who joined the Brigham in 2004 as an emergency medicine physician, is a professor of Emergency Medicine at Harvard Medical School and professor of Global Health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. He co-founded and directs the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative (HHI), the largest academic and research center of its kind, focused on improving humanitarian strategies for relief in regions affected by war and disaster. He also founded and directs the Humanitarian Academy at Harvard (HAH), a Harvard-wide educational effort designed to advance humanitarian professionalism and develop the next generation of humanitarian leadership.

VanRooyen’s commitment to humanitarian work began long before he joined the Brigham family. Upon completing his residency in 1991, he began working with NGOs in conflict settings, such as Somalia, to advance emergency medical care. For the next two decades, he worked in some of the world’s most active conflict zones and disaster settings, including Sudan, Bosnia, Rwanda, North Korea, Iraq and Haiti. Through his work abroad, VanRooyen became further convinced that the field of humanitarian aid must create an evidence base and a professional pathway to advance quality and efficiency in the field.

Domestically, he worked with the American Red Cross to provide relief assistance at the site of the World Trade Center in New York on September 11, 2001. He also helped to coordinate the American Red Cross public health response to Hurricane Katrina and worked with the Navajo and Apache tribes in Arizona and New Mexico.

“Dr. VanRooyen’s leadership and experience in the fields of global health and emergency medicine are unparalleled,” said Betsy Nabel, MD, BWHC president. “He is recognized by his colleagues as an outstanding leader with an unwavering commitment to emergency medicine, training the next generation of emergency medicine clinicians and providing superb compassionate care to patients and families. I look forward to a continued tradition of service to our mission in the department under his guidance.”

Mike is a graduate of St. Johns High School. He earned his MD from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and his MPH from the University of Illinois in Chicago.

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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Friends of The Maple River to meet January 20

On Wednesday, January 20th, the Friends of the Maple River (FOMR) will hold its bi-monthly meeting at the Maple Rapids Community center, located at 209 Maple street in Maple Rapids. The meeting will start at 7:00 PM.

The guest speaker will be Dr. David Lusch from Michigan State University. His topic will be the glacial history of central Michigan and it’s impact on the formation of the Maple River watershed. Anyone interested in the Maple River or its glacial historyis invited to attend the meeting.

There will also be a short business session to discuss FOMR activities for 2016. One important item is participation in the March Quiet Waters Symposium at Michigan State University.

The others are planning for the annual Maple River River clean-up in April, and assisting the Friends of the Looking Glass River with their log jam removal program that is part of their preparation for their upcoming 2016 Looking Glass River Expedition scheduled for June.

The mission of FOMR is to help preserve, improve and promote the wise use of the Maple River and its watershed. And to work with units of Government, municipalities, organizations, businesses and individuals to help resolve resource and conservation issues.

For additional information about the Friends of the Maple River or the upcoming meeting in Maple Rapids, check out the organization and Like Us on Facebook at “Friends of the Maple River”.

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Briggs Library News

Coloring Program – Sales of print books rose again this year, thanks in part to adult coloring books. Come see what all the fuss is about at our All Ages Coloring Event on Tuesday, January 12 from 6:30-7:30p.m.! We will have a selection of coloring pages, pencils, and markers available during this stress-relieving, creativity-enhancing, and fun program. Registration for this free program is required and is now available.

Jr. Readers Program – Children in grades 2-4 can “Explore the Night Sky” with us on February 1 from 7-8p.m., when we will have fun learning what is in the winter night sky. Registration and worksheet are available December 28th at the library or online. Activities will include discussion, snack and an illuminating craft.

Bookaholics – It’s a new year and a new book club for the Bookaholics! Starting with our January 21 meeting, the book club will meet for one session at 6:30p.m. at the Library. This is an open club that is always accepting new members, so stop in and join us! A big Thank You! goes out to Dean Mazzolini and the staff at Bruno’s for being welcoming hosts for the last four years. When we meet in January we will be discussing “Goodnight June” by Sarah Jio. June Andersen is unexpectedly called to settle her great-aunt Ruby’s estate and determine the fate of Bluebird Books, the children’s bookstore Ruby founded in the 1940s. Amidst the store’s papers, June stumbles upon letters between her great-aunt and the late Margaret Wise Brown, author of “Goodnight Moon” – and steps into the pages of American literature. Copies of the book are now available.

Pre-Reader – “Reading Through the Alphabet” is the story-time theme for children ages 4-6 years old (independent listeners). This 6 week session has a few available openings yet. It is on Thursday evenings, 6:30-7pm, January 14 – February 18. Story-times will include stories featuring books with titles A-Z, (1st week will be Ah Ha, Ahoty Toyty, Bike on Bear, Beep Beep Go to Sleep, Cow Loves Cookies, and City Dog, Country Frog). Sessions will include games, music & movement “ABC Disco” and crafts. Registration is required.

Thank You – Thanks to all who brought 56 pairs of mittens, 43 hats and 23 scarves to decorate our Mitten Tree. The items were taken to the Baby Pantry, Basic Needs Center and the Community Services Center sponsored by the 7th Day Adventists. Thanks for your generosity in helping make warm hands and warm hearts.

Library Closures – The Library will be closed on January 18 for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout these closures.

Simple Storytime – Children ages 2-4 (and their participating grownup) can join us for some “Sheepy Shenanigans” during our next Simple Storytime! This program will feature sheep stories, music, and crafts, and will run Wednesday mornings from 10:30-11:00, February 3 – March 2. Registration for this program is required and opens Wednesday, January 13.

Kids, Cartoons and Crafts – We will celebrate Valentine’s Day with the next session of our holiday cartoon program. We will be watching “A Scooby-Doo Valentine,” making a craft and having a snack on Tuesday, February 9 from 6:30-7:30. Registration for this free program is required and opens Tuesday, January 19.

Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover – Adults looking to jump start their 2016 reading are invited to our “Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover” program on Thursday, February 11 from 6:30-7:30p.m. Participants in this fun program will get first pick of brand new books and will hopefully find a new favorite author or genre. Registration is required and opens Thursday, January 21.

Chapter Chatter – “Through a Door” will be the theme for children ages 6-8. What will we find behind the doors that we walk through in this 4 week session? Library staff will choose stories that will be shared at each session. The fun will happen on Thursday evenings, 7-7:45pm, February 25- March 17. The “door locations” will be announced at a later date. Registration is required and opens on Thursday January 28. Like books, it will be an adventure.

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Contact Information:

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

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Parking reminder

The City Police have announced that the 2016 City parking permits are available through their office during regular business hours.

The cost of a yearly permit is $75 and it allows you to park in any city parking lot downtown during daytime hours and overnight.

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Recall of Nice! Mandarin Oranges

Milky Way International Trading Corp. today announced the recall of Nice! Mandarin Oranges in 8-ounce bottles due to potential glass in the product. The affected product was distributed to Walgreens stores nationwide and displays one of the lot numbers listed below. Consumers could potentially be cut or injured if ingested. To date there have been three complaints, and one alleged injury reported.

The voluntary recall is limited to specific production codes of 8-ounce Nice! Brand Mandarin Oranges in Light Syrup, as follows. The lot codes are located at either the neck or the lid of the glass bottles.

H894K09A 01/11/2017 0-49022-80895-9 100-49022-80895-6
4200/01039 01/16/2018 0-49022-80895-9 100-49022-80895-6
4200/01039 02/01/2018 0-49022-80895-9 100-49022-80895-6

This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of and in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

If you have any of the affected product(s) on hand, please contact us immediately at 1.562.921.2800 Monday to Friday between 8am to 5pm PST.

The product has been removed from shelves in Walgreens stores.

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Leonard posts perfect voting record

For the third consecutive year since being elected, State Rep. Tom Leonard has maintained a perfect voting record across the legislative calendar.

Rep. Leonard, R-DeWitt, was present and cast votes on all 504 roll calls during 2015. In 2014 he cast all 811 votes, and in 2013 voted in all 534 roll calls.

“People in the 93rd House District honored me with election to this office, and I feel it is incumbent upon me to ensure their voices are heard on every issue that comes before the House,” said Rep. Leonard, who also serves as House Speaker Pro Tem. “I take this responsibility very seriously and making it to every vote is a priority.”

Rep. Leonard, who also chairs the House Committee on Insurance, is author of House Bill 4935, part of a legislative package that updates the insurance code for health insurance to make it more efficient and effective for both insurers and consumers. He also introduced legislation addressing key aspects of mental illness issues by simplifying the process for family members to access the mental health system for a loved one through the assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) process. The bill does not impair any of the due process protections provided to those in need of care.

“I look forward to continuing our momentum in the coming year as we improve our economy and make government more accountable and transparent,” Rep. Leonard said. “We will build on our successes and efforts to make Michigan a great state in which to work, play and raise a family.”

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Baker to host BPA Leadership Conference January 8

Baker College of Owosso will host the Business Professionals of America (BPA) Regional Leadership Conference on its campus, Friday, Jan. 8. Competitions start at 8:30 a.m. and run throughout the day. The awards ceremony is expected to begin at 4:45 p.m., depending upon when all contestants have been scored.

Approximately 525 area high school BPA student members will participate in the event, competing for regional awards in more than 50 categories under five primary classifications: finance, business administration, management information systems, digital communication and design, and management, marketing and communications.

“BPA helps motivated Michigan high school students prepare for real-world leadership roles in business by developing their civic responsibility, technology and business skills,” said Aaron J. Maike, Baker College of Owosso president. “We once again fully support the efforts of this organization to create a world-class workforce.”

Participating schools include Bath High School, Byron High School, Capital Area Career Center, Charlotte High School, DeWitt High School, Eaton Regional Education Service Agency Career Preparation Center, Fowler High School, Owosso High School, Perry High School, Pinckney Community High School, St. Johns High School and Williamston High School.

In the event of postponement due to inclement weather, the snow date is Friday, January 15.

Finalists are eligible to attend the State Leadership Conference to be held March 17-20 in Grand Rapids. Finalists there are eligible to attend the National Leadership Conference, May 5-9, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Business Professionals of America is a national career and technical student organization with more than 2,300 chapters and 43,000 members in 23 states. The Michigan BPA has approximately 170 local chapters in 10 regions and approximately 4,600 members.

The BPA mission is to contribute to the preparation of a world-class workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic, and technological skills.

For more information about the BPA conference, contact Mike Konopacke in the admissions office at
mike.konopacke@baker.edu, 989.729.3350 or 1.800.879.3797.

Christmas Tree Disposal

Christmas trees are not picked up by Granger, they are picked up by the City of St. Johns Public Works Department. The trees will be picked up on either Monday or Tuesday, the same schedule as the brown bag pick-up, beginning January 4th.

Please have your Christmas tree free of ornaments/tinsel and placed out by the curb. Do not have your tree wrapped in a plastic bag.

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

If you have any questions, please contact City Offices at 989-224-8944.

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Mint City Singers invite new voices

Do you like to sing? The Mint City Singers extend a warm welcome to join them.

No auditions, just come to the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns on Mondays beginning January 11th at 7:00 pm. The church is located just east of the courthouse in downtown St. Johns.

They are a branch of the Clinton Co. Arts Council which receives financial operating support from the MI Council of the Arts & Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment of the Arts.

New season, new music, join us!

Questions? Call Carol at 989-834-2281 or Ellen at 989-233-5775. Email: cdmalewska@yahoo.com or ellen.hoard@rpccpas.com.

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New Couch to 5K Program

The 14th Winter Warm Up (WWU) kicks off on Jan. 16th! To stay healthy and active this winter, the WWU is featuring a FREE Blue Cross Community Couch to 5K in 8 communities! If you, your family and friends have thought about doing a 5K but didn’t know where to start, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Playmakers Fitness Foundation have teamed up to bring you an exciting 8 week program! The program is modeled after Playmakers successful Couch to 5K Training Program.

The program:
· includes 2 weekly 1 hour sessions (Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:00-7:00 p.m.) led by certified Good Form Running and Walking coaches.
· welcomes all ages and abilities (a parent or their designee must accompany children).
· sends weekly e-newsletters with training and nutritional information.
· has 15 instructional sessions that lead to a goal event and celebration – a free 5K Walk/Run at Hawk Island Park on Saturday, March 12th.
· is held indoors and outside on walkways, layer clothing for warmth.
If you can’t train with this program but still want to participate in the 5K Walk/Run – you can! The 5K is free and you are welcome to join Team St. Johns or/ the WWU team. Please join us on Jan. 16 at 9:00 am for exciting WWU Kick Off festivities at the Lansing Mall.

To register or for more information go to www.winterwarm-up.org. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 228 or email rfaivor@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information. Like us on Facebook.

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Avoiding Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Parents make hundreds of decisions that affect the health and well-being of their infants. But perhaps the most important decision of all is where and how their baby is placed to sleep.

Growing evidence points to the fact that unsafe sleep practice is a leading risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidental infant deaths- something that can be avoided.

While babies do need adult supervised “tummy time,” during waking hours, putting your baby to sleep on his or her back is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the risk of SIDS. Contrary to what some may think, back sleeping is not only comfortable for babies, but much safer than tummy sleeping as well. Babies can be taught to sleep on their backs at a very early age and will get used to the sleeping position. One of the most common reasons parents give for not putting their babies to sleep on their backs is the fear that the baby will choke if he or she spits up, but parents should be reassured in knowing that babies have mechanisms that keep them from choking when on their back.

It is also recommended that the safest place for a baby to sleep, for at least the first six months, is near the parent’s bed, in his or her own sleep space. This also makes breastfeeding easier.

To reduce the risk of SIDS, make sure all those who care for your baby follow these guidelines:

· Make sure babies sleep by themselves in a crib, portable crib or bassinet. Bed sharing is not recommended because it can lead to suffocation.
· Always place babies on their backs to sleep. Research shows that back-sleeping is the safest sleep position for babies.
· Babies should sleep on a firm mattress with a tightly fitted sheet. Never place your baby to sleep on pillows, quilts, couches, bean bags or other soft surfaces.
· Keep soft objects and loose bedding out of the crib. Keep pillows, quilts, blankets, comforters, wedges, bumper pads, and stuffed toys out of your baby’s sleep area.
· Use a wearable blanket or other type of sleeper, instead of blankets, to keep your baby warm.
· Make sure the baby’s head and face are uncovered. Blankets and other items should not be placed over the baby’s face while they are in a crib, cradle, bassinet, car seat, stroller or infant carrier.
· Don’t dress the baby too warmly. Dress your baby in as much or as little clothing as you are wearing.
· Don’t allow smoking around your baby. Exposure to secondhand smoke significantly increases an infant’s risk for SIDS and other health issues such as asthma, lower respiratory tract infections and middle-ear infections.

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Upcoming Adult Programs

New adult photography class on Thursdays, February 11, 18, and 25, 2016 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Optional outdoor shoot on Saturday, February 20, 2016 from 11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of photography, camera settings and how they work, image cropping and design, the rule of thirds, and other design concepts. Classes will take place at the St. Johns Railroad Depot (across from the library), which is a great setting to take photos downtown. Participants are encouraged to bring any type of digital camera, to get hands on experience. Cost is $25.00 for City of St Johns Residents and $30.00 for Non-City of St Johns Residents. The deadline to register is February 9, 2016. The class will be taught by Sharon Potter and Paula Villanueva.

Open gym for adults 18 and older, is being held at the St. Johns Middle School Gymnasiums starting January 4 through March 31, 2016. There will be no open gym on January 18, February 15 and 21, and March 10, 14 and 24, 2016. Mondays will be open volleyball and basketball from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. and Thursdays will be Drop-in Soccer from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $4.00 per person per night. Open Gym cards can be purchased at the City Offices or during Open Gym times for $20 and are good for 6 visits.

Swimming Activities take place at the St. Johns High School Pool. Please enter the building using the Activities Entrance. All activities are cancelled if St. Johns Public Schools are closed due to weather, the high school is closed for any reason, or if a school related function is scheduled.

Morning lap swim is held Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 5:00 – 6:00 a.m. Cost is $5.00 per visit or you can purchase a 12 visit punch card for $50.00. This program runs year round.

Aqua Therapy/Lap Swim is held Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5.00 per visit or you can purchase a 12 visit punch card for $50.00. This program runs year round.

Evening lap swim is held on Monday and Wednesday nights from 8:15- 9:15 p.m. and will begin on January 4, 2016. Cost is $5.00 per visit or you can purchase a 12 visit punch card for $50.00. This program runs through April 28, 2016.

Open Swim is held on Monday nights beginning on January 5, 2015 at the High School Pool. Cost is $4.00 Adult $3.00 Children or $10.00 Family (Parents and Children Only). This program runs through April 28, 2016.

Registrations for all adult activities are available at the City Offices and website at http://cityofstjohnsmi.com/Departments/ParksandRecreation/AdultPrograms.aspx. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 228 or email rfaivor@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information.

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MMDHD calendar

January 2016

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 5: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
January 12: 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 26: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 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 6
January 11: 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 Clinics

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 4: 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 13: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

January 21: 8 a.m to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

January 25: 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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Winter Kids Activities

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department is offering another session of 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 at Gateway North Elementary on Mondays beginning January 25 and ending February 29, 2016 from 6:15 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The cost is $40.00 for St. Johns City Residents and $45 for non- City Residents. The deadline for registration is January 21, 2016.

The City of St. Johns Recreation Department is accepting registrations for the 2016 K-2nd Biddy Basketball Program. The deadline to register is January 15, 2016. The registration fee for the program is $31.00 for St. Johns School district residents and $36.00 for non-school district residents. After the January 15th deadline there is a ten-dollar late fee. Registrations received after the deadline are not guaranteed to be placed on a team. This six-week program, for children in kindergarten thru 2nd grade, will teach children the game of basketball. The 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. All participants can expect to learn, from parents and volunteers, the basics of basketball in a non-competitive and safe atmosphere. An emphasis will be placed on all players playing the same amount, good sportsmanship, fundamentals and having fun.

The season runs on Saturdays from February 13th thru March 19th. Kindergarten and 1st graders will spend the first two-weeks learning the basics of basketball. The next four-weeks the beginning of each session will be used as an instructional period where the coach will spend time teaching the fundamentals of passing, dribbling and shooting. The second part of the session will be used to scrimmage against another team, where the players will be able to showcase what they have learned and work as part of a team. 2nd graders will spend the entire six-weeks practicing and scrimmaging. Each participant that pre-registers will receive a t-shirt, certificate, individual award and a “Big Boy MVP Award” from Big Boy Restaurant of St. Johns.

The Recreation Department needs volunteer parents/coaches for K-2nd grade levels. No experience needed, we provide a coaches manual to help you out. There is also a Coaches Clinic on Saturday, February 6th, 2016 led by Basketball University Sports and Events LLC. You must enjoy working with children and want to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

Returning again this year will be the Basketball Skills Camp for grades 3rd – 6th. The camp runs on Saturdays from February 13th thru March 19th. 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 January 23, 2016. If you would like to know more about Basketball University please visit www.bballuniversity.com. Everyone that pre-registers will receive a certificate and a “Big Boy MVP Award” from Big Boy Restaurant of St. Johns.

Registrations for all youth activities are available at the City Offices and website at http://cityofstjohnsmi.com/Departments/ParksandRecreation/YouthPrograms.aspx. Call the City of St. Johns Recreation Department at 224-8944 ext. 228 or email rfaivor@ci.saint-johns.mi.us for additional information. Like us on Facebook.

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Marriage licenses filed the week of December 21, 2015

Steven Wesley Orweller, 51 of Ovid and Sonja Marie Smith, 48 of Ovid

Gary Rolland Null, 40 of East Lansing and Robin Lee Mortinsen, 32 of East Lansing

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Divorce decrees filed the weeks of December 4 and 21, 2015

Phillips, Richard Alan and Lisa Renee

Toth, David Alan and Barbara Gail

Wroe, Russell lee and Christina Renee

Cooney, John Matthew and Francisca Eliza

Wettlaufer, Eric Brian and Rebecca Dawn

Let’s drive around and see the lights – an album by Maralyn Fink

https://picasaweb.google.com/110845930262453987007/151221?authuser=0&feat=directlink

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SADD receives grant

Recently St. Johns High School Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) received a $1000 grant from the Office of Highway Safety Planning and Ford Driving Skills for Life called Strive 4 A Safer Drive (S4SD).

Students had various activities throughout the month of December for Impaired Driving Prevention Month. The school was decorated for Lights on For Life Month and students were reminded to drive safely. Activities geared toward Safe Driving will take place throughout the 2015 2016 school year.

SADD Advisor Karla Palmer, SADD Officers Claire Rickman, Arielle Barlage, Meg Gust and Olivia Ruppert, and St. Johns Chief of Police Kyle Knight

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Legion Post treats vets at HIFCM and Ovid

The St. Johns Honor Guard recognized veterans at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor with Christmas gifts.

They also presented blankets to the veterans who reside at the Ovid Healthcare Center.

Twenty-seven homeless veterans who stay with the Volunteers of America received bath towels.

The project was paid for using funds raised during a breakfast and with matching challenge money from Sons of the American Legion.

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Historical Society Archives offers a new Search Feature

To help in your research we now have a place online where you can search for sources of Clinton County residents and area information that is available at the Clinton County Historical Society Archives. This is a new feature we are offering with additions being made regularly so stop back often.

You can search by name, document title, category prefix, or zone code to show you what is available in a specific area of the Archives. Click on the “Archives Collection” button at the top of our main page to get to the search page. On that webpage you will find a key to the category prefix codes they have established and also a floor map coded by each zone of document/media storage.

Please check out the website to see everything that is available online and at the Archives. They are your go-to site for county marriages, deaths, local and family histories, school histories and statistics.

Want to view your senior class yearbook picture? We have over 300 class group pictures or actual yearbook senior pictures. This is just a small sample of what you’ll find. You will also find our hours, location and other contact information.

Please note that the Archives will not be open during our regularly scheduled hours if the St. Johns and DeWitt schools are closed for bad weather.

www.dewittlibrary.org/CCHS

Let them know what you think of the new search tool or if you have problems with it. Comments, questions, or suggestions are always welcome at ccgensoc@yahoo.com.

The Historical Society Archives are excited to bring this new service and hope this makes your research easier. They have over 3,300 documents and thousands of names available. They hope you will be inspired to visit the Archives.

If you can’t come to the Archives, they have people available to do research for you for a fee. They are a non-profit organization run by volunteers to keep Clinton County’s history available. Whether you are new at genealogy or an experienced researcher they are here to help.

Happy Holidays from the staff of the Archives:
Janet Dunn, Julie Peters, Bill Serviss, Rowlan Smith, Kim Sperry, Ralph Temple, Myrna VanEpps, Judy Winslow

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SJPD wins NNO photo contest

Back in August the St. Johns Police Department submitted “before” and “during” photos of their National Night Out celebration.

The randomly selected winners of this year’s NNO Before & During Photo Contest are Rolling Meadows, IL, St. Johns, MI and Lumberton Township, NJ. Each community has won a $100 Gift Certificate to the NNO 2016 SuperStore.

Mint City Singers invite new voices

Do you like to sing? The Mint City Singers extend a warm welcome to join them.

No auditions, just come to the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns on Mondays beginning January 11th at 7:00 pm. The church is located just east of the courthouse in downtown St. Johns.

They are a branch of the Clinton Co. Arts Council which receives financial operating support from the MI Council of the Arts & Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment of the Arts.

New season, new music, join us!

Questions? Call Carol at 989-834-2281 or Ellen at 989-233-5775. Email: cdmalewska@yahoo.com or ellen.hoard@rpccpas.com.

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Briggs Library News

Coloring Program – Sales of print books rose again this year, thanks in part to adult coloring books. Come see what all the fuss is about at our All Ages Coloring Event on Tuesday, January 12 from 6:30-7:30p.m.! We will have a selection of coloring pages, pencils, and markers available during this stress-relieving, creativity-enhancing, and fun program. Registration for this free program is required and is now available.

Jr. Readers Program – Children in grades 2-4 can “Explore the Night Sky” with us on February 1 from 7-8p.m., when we will have fun learning what is in the winter night sky. Registration and worksheet

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Contact Information:

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

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Auditorium Project Still Seeking Funds

The Wilson Center Auditorium Project is still in need of donations by the end of the year to take advantage of a $30,000 matching grant. “We still have that dollar for dollar matching grant, which will expire at the end of the year,” states committee chair Bill Tennant. “This is a great opportunity for us to really move the project forward towards its completion.”

The committee’s greatest need is to completely redo the antiquated lighting system that was installed well over 60 years ago. The current lighting system does not light the entire stage and is operated from back stage, behind the curtains – it needs to be brought into the 21st century.

Also, final bills are due for the additional 140 renovated seats that will soon be installed, completing the downstairs seating area – also for a projector that will be installed in December and will be used for showing movies and power point presentations.

A lot of programs are being planned for next year starting in January. The Wilson Collective, a program sponsoring all-ages concerts and events have planned Open Mic Nights on the third Mondays of every month from January to May, starting at 7:00 p.m. All-Ages Rock Concerts have also been schedule for January 15 and 29, February 26 and March 18. The Collective is looking to bring in some national touring musicians along with local groups. Movies and theatrical productions are also in the works.

“We have a lot planned for this beautiful historical venue, ” Tennant concluded. “We need people to remember this wonderful community project as they make their year-end tax-deductable donations. We are thankful for all of those who have already sent in their donations.” Checks should be made out to: “St. Johns Foundation for Excellence” and sent to: Wilson Auditorium Project, PO Box 331, St. Johns, MI 48879.

More information is available on the Web at wilsoncenterauditorium.org also on the Wilson Center Auditorium Face Book page – donations can also be made at Go Fund Me under Wilson Center Auditorium.

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Home for the Holidays

Isn’t it interesting during this holiday season that all that was really “wanted” on that first Christmas was a safe place to rest? Even Jesus was in need of a “home.”

As we hurry through the holidays and wrap presents, buy the ham, decorate the tree, and drop our change in the Salvation Army bucket, let us not forget the people who have no place to call “home.” Let us also remember that Jesus came from a family of carpenters, and that Jesus said that his Father was preparing mansions in Heaven for us.

Imagine if you were Jesus’ mom. You were about to deliver your first child. No one would give you a place to rest, or a proper place to have a child. How ironic that Jesus (God’s son) entered this world with no one showing mercy for housing. Perhaps this is why Jesus talked so often about taking care of the poor – and loving your neighbor as yourself. You would NEVER let your friend/sibling/neighbor/relative have to endure the circumstances that Jesus’ mom did. You would want to help.

This is why you are part of Habitat for Humanity. You want to help.

People who have been part of the Habitat for Humanity ministry KNOW first-hand the joy it is working with families who want to better their lives and be part of a community. Habitat is not a hand out. It is a hand up. Andy has a room of his own because of caring people like you. Andy and his sister Erin have a safe, decent and affordable place to grow up because of YOU. Jesus understood what it is like to not have a home and a safe place to rest your head for the night.

In this season of remembrance and celebration of the love of Jesus, won’t you consider making a donation to Habitat in order to help more families this year with housing? Your tax-deductible donation will go to help more families like Andy’s who will finally be homeowners and stable community members. Jesus commanded us to love one another. The best way to do that is to help them have basic needs. A safe, decent and affordable house should be the top of the list.

This time next year, let’s celebrate a couple more families who will not be told there is “no room.”

Next year you will be helping to build two houses in DeWitt, launch of the Critical Home Repair program, and help more families have a safe and decent place to lay their heads every night. Won’t you consider making your year-end donation today in honor of all the blessings that we receive throughout the year – and know that this donation will become a legacy here in Clinton County.

It’s easy to support Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County in order to help families achieve home ownership.

You can help a family realize their dream of owning a house for less than a dinner out! Make a monthly gift today!

$10/month buys two windows
$20/month buys an energy efficient, secure, handicap accessible exterior door
$50/month buys interior paint for the whole house
$100/month buys all the kitchen cabinets and counter tops
$200/month buys trusses for the roof.

Donate Now!

You can set it up to have your monthly donation taken out automatically or you can make a one-time donation.

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Still time to enroll for Winter Quarter at Baker

Baker College of Owosso continues to enroll students for the winter 2016 quarter with on-ground classes beginning Monday, Jan. 11. Online classes begin Thursday, Jan. 7. On-ground course registration continues through the first week of classes. Students have the flexibility to take classes on ground at the Owosso campus or a mix of campus and online courses.
Holiday hours for the Owosso admissions office are:

· Monday-Tuesday, December 28-29, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Wednesday, December 30, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Note: The office is closed Dec. 24-25 and December 31-January 1, and will return to regular hours beginning Monday, January 4:
· Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Late appointments can be made available upon request.

Baker College of Owosso students have access to financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, low-interest loans and work-study programs. For more information, contact Mike Konopacke in the admissions office at mike.konopacke@baker.edu, 989.729.3350 or 1.800.879.3797. Students may schedule an appointment via the Baker College website: www.baker.edu.

Shop With a Cop – a courtesy album

https://picasaweb.google.com/110845930262453987007/151215?authuser=0&feat=directlink

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City Commission update

The City Commission presented a Resolution of Appreciation to the Good Wins Key Club for their Rake-N-Run.

Members present were Clare Rickman, Jamison Cleaver, Jessica Hafner and Ashlee Vanzee.

The Red Hat Society presented the City with a $200 check towards the Spray Park.

Members present were Mary Faloon, Shirleyann Lake and Bertine Thelen.

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Rotary donates to SJPS

The St. Johns Rotary Club made a donation of $1,600 to the St. Johns Public Schools for the purchase of a AED defibrillator for the Wilson Center.

Rotary President Pam Foster, School Board Trustee/Rotarian Kevin Kirk, Superintendent/Rotarian Dr. Dedrick Martin, School Nurse Carla Palmer and School Board Trustee/Rotarian Alan Nelson

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Auditorium Project Still Seeking Funds

The Wilson Center Auditorium Project is still in need of donations by the end of the year to take advantage of a $30,000 matching grant. “We still have that dollar for dollar matching grant which will expire at the end of the year,” says committee chair Bill Tennant. “This is a great opportunity for us to really move the project forward towards its completion.”

The committee’s greatest need is to completely redo the antiquated lighting system that was installed well over 60 years ago. The current lighting system does not light the entire stage and is operated from back stage, behind the curtains. It needs to be brought into the 21st century.

Final bills also are due for the additional 140 renovated seats that will soon be installed, completing the downstairs seating area and for a projector that will be installed in December. This will be used for showing movies and power point presentations.

A lot of programs are being planned for next year starting in January. The Wilson Collective, a program sponsoring all-ages concerts and events have planned Open Mic Nights on the third Mondays of every month from January to May, starting at 7:00 p.m. All-Ages Rock Concerts have also been schedule for January 15 and 29, February 26 and March 18. The Collective is looking to bring in some national touring musicians along with local groups. Movies and theatrical productions are also in the works.

“We have a lot planned for this beautiful historical venue, ” Tennant concluded. “We need people to remember this wonderful community project as they make their year-end tax-deductable donations. We are thankful for all of those who have already sent in their donations.”

Checks should be made out to: “St. Johns Foundation for Excellence” and sent to: Wilson Auditorium Project, PO Box 331, St. Johns, MI 48879.

More information is available on the Web at wilsoncenterauditorium.org also on the Wilson Center Auditorium Face Book page – donations can also be made at Go Fund Me under Wilson Center Auditorium.

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Community Christmas Concert

The annual Community Christmas Concert was held on December 11th at 7:00 pm in the Wilson Center Auditorium.

Participants included the St. Johns Community Band, Bases Loaded Tuba Ensemble, the Mint City Singers and Vivo Contando, and the community children’s choir.

Courtesy of Guven Witteveen

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Buy A Room with $20.00? – Habitat for Humanity

Well, sort of:

Your donation of $20.00 along with others can help another family have a house of their own this time next year. Which will help kids have a room of their own, and space of their own.

Erin has a room of her own, in her own house this year because of you, our supporter. She knows that it takes a community to help make dreams come true. Erin also knows that a $20.00 donation by one person can be matched by another and another to cover the costs of a whole room – or in Erin’s case, HER room, it is really special.

Of course it is something really special when individuals, churches, businesses or groups sponsor a whole room, but when that is not possible, a gift of $20, $50 or even $500 is combined with all other gifts to make the dreams come true for a family who will soon have rooms that they never imagined.

Merry Christmas to the Mansfields and Merry Christmas to all of you. And please consider giving your year-end gift to help more families like the Mansfields.

It doesn’t take much to support Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County as they help families achieve home ownership!

– $10/month buys two windows
– $20/month buys an energy efficient, secure, handicap accessible exterior door
– $50/month buys interior paint for the whole house
– $100/month buys all the kitchen cabinets and countertops
– $200/month buys trusses for the roof.

For secure donations, click on the “donate now” button – you can set it up to have your monthly donation taken out automatically or you can make a one-time donation.

www.habitatclinton.org

Mint City Singers Invite New Voices

Do you like to sing? The Mint City Singers extend a warm welcome to join them.

No auditions, just come to the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns on Mondays beginning January 11th at 7:00 pm.

The church is located just east of the courthouse in downtown St. Johns. We are a branch of the Clinton Co. Arts Council which receives financial operating support from the MI Council of the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment of the Arts.

New season, new music, join us! Questions? Call Carol at 989-834-2281 or Ellen at 989-233-5775. Email: cdmalewska@yahoo.com or ellen.hoard@rpccpas.com.

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Post Office employees donate to CASA

CASA appreciates the generosity of the St. Johns Post Office staff for their holiday giving to support children who have been removed from their parents’ care due to abuse or neglect.

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CAFR Captain retires

Capt. Bob Parks was awarded a plaque with his badge on it for retiring after 11 years of service with CAFR.

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Michigan Historical Center offers unique holiday gift ideas

At the Michigan Historical Center’s Museum Store in downtown Lansing, the shelves are stocked with many new items for holiday shoppers. The store has this year placed an emphasis on Michigan-made and Michigan-themed products.

To show your Mitten pride, there are many choices in hand-crafted holiday ornaments from Michigan artisans. Among them are:

– Beautiful pewter ornaments from Hastings Pewter in Hastings
– Delicate ornaments made from real leaves coated with a liquid pottery glaze, using a 19th-century technique, by – – Pleasant Valley Pottery in Clio
– Beautiful ceramic ornaments in the Celtic tradition by Touchstone Pottery of Dewitt
– Brightly painted birds and animals from Cobane Studios in Lake Orion
– Michigan-shaped ornaments in copper from Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula
– Hand-blown glass candy canes from Jordan Valley Glassworks in East Jordan
– Pleasant Valley Pottery also is represented in a collection of colorful pieces of hand-thrown pottery, including mugs, bowls, vases and jugs. The pieces are inspired by shards of 1840s ceramics that owner Tim Bennett found while excavating his ancestor’s farm.

Looking for cool Michigan apparel? The Museum Store offers various sweatshirts and T-shirts with Michigan themes, including ones celebrating Michigan’s state parks and trails. It also has Michigan Mittens of Clarkston adult and children’s mittens showing both peninsulas.

The Museum Store’s Michigan-made jewelry features a line from Great Lakes Art Jewelry in Au Train. The artist uses local elements including silver, copper and beach stones to create beautiful yet affordable pieces.

For the reader on your list, the store carries several books on different topics related to Michigan history, including the recently published “Detroit in World War 2” and Better Made in Michigan; The Salty Story of Detroit’s Best Chip. For the kids, the store has Santa Claus is on His Way to Michigan and The Twelve Days of Christmas in Michigan, as well as the ever-popular Michigan Chiller series by Jonathan Rand.

Shoppers can download a coupon to save 25 percent on their in-store purchases at the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing. State employees also get a 25-percent discount through Dec. 23.

For those who prefer online shopping, the Archives of Michigan offers some fun gift ideas at Michiganology.com. Michiganology uses items from the Archives to create products that highlight the state’s history, such as notecards with reprints of historic Michigan trout stamps; drinkware and high-quality, frameable prints of beer labels from long-forgotten Michigan breweries; and jigsaw puzzles and magnets featuring iconic Michigan images.

Through Dec. 31 online shoppers can save 10 percent on their Michiganology purchases by entering the discount code MITTEN during checkout.

All profits from sales support the programs and exhibits of the Michigan Historical Center, including the Michigan Historical Museum, the Michigan Iron Industry Museum and the Archives of Michigan.

The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its museum and archival programs help people discover, enjoy and find inspiration in their heritage. It includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve, and the Archives of Michigan. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/mhc.

Thanksgiving at the Congregational Church – an album by Maralyn Fink

On Thursday, Thanksgiving, I decided to go to the Congregational Church to do a story and take some pictures and maybe even have dinner with them.

I arrived a little early to accomplish my goal.

This dinner has three local churches that put this on, First Congregational, First Methodist and St Joseph Catholic Church.

I could see that this was a very organized team of people who volunteer their time. Walking into the dining area, the tables were very nicely decorated with Thanksgiving décor, and the tables were very homey.

The group starts planning in September, and this was their 6th year. The attendance is variable, they and have had 200 seatings in the past. There are two serving times, 12 noon followed by a 1:30 seating. They have reservations and welcome walk -ins.

Another option is a meals to go option by calling in, but the meals are not delivered. People who arrive early are treated in the welcome center with breads and relishes until the start time. 911 is given a call to invite anyone on duty with the Fire Department and the Police Department and the Ambulance Service to join them for a meal.

Sparrow-Clinton Hospital prepares the turkeys, and Meijer’s provides the relishes. Meanwhile, First Methodist is in charge of the pie making. Each Church plays an important role in this important day.

Donations are accepted and are used for start-up money for the following year and as a supplement for Basic Needs.

Many Thanks go to the volunteers, churches, Batterbee Cakes, Big Boy, Dewitt Meijer’s, Gordon Foods, Kiwanis Club, Kroger’s, Phillips Orchards, St Johns High School National Honor Society, Good Wins Club, Wal-Mart, Sparrow-Clinton physicians and staff, and Livingston Gourds.

I dined with Dr. Charles and Lois Graham and had a great time, especially talking about the good ole days. Thank you, Lois, for the information and the rest of the crew for letting me take the pictures.

This years Co-coordinator was Guven Witteveen.

https://picasaweb.google.com/110845930262453987007/15112402?authuser=0&feat=directlink

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Watch a video courtesy of Guven Witteveen
https://www.facebook.com/179850365400481/videos/1066035933448582/

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Law Enforcement Agencies participate in Fill a Cop Car – Saturday, December 5th

On Saturday, December 5th 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 Our 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.

They are asking that you purchase an extra item or two and help them help those that are less fortunate. The back seats of the patrol vehicles are usually used to transport people who have run afoul of the law. Help them put the seats 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
– DeWitt Township Hall, 1401 W. Herbison Road, DeWitt
– 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 in St. Johns and Redeemer United Methodist Church in DeWitt. The officers of the St. Johns Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, DeWitt Township Police Department, DeWitt City Police Department, Bath Township Police Department, and Ovid Police Department appreciate your generosity during this holiday season.

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SJHS Class of ’85 raises $4,500 for Foundation for Excellence

The St. Johns High School Class of 1985 celebrated their 30th Class Reunion during homecoming weekend October 2-3. Prior to the reunion, the class alumni association launched the first-ever St. Johns Alumni Giving Challenge as a fundraiser to benefit the St. Johns Schools Foundation for Excellence.

“The class of 1985 wanted to give back to the school system and honor the faculty that laid the educational foundation for our lives and careers,” said Brian O’Connor, president of the class of 1985 alumni association. “The St. Johns Alumni Giving Challenge was created to inspire fellow alumni to support student achievement and the commitment to excellence of the St. Johns school system.”

The reunion planning committee explored options for where donations would make the most significant impact and after consultation with high school principal Mark Palmer, the Class of 1985 selected St. Johns Schools Foundation for Excellence as the recipient of the alumni giving challenge due to its purpose, which is; to generate funds that will be used to provide learning materials and opportunities for the students of the St. Johns School district that go above and beyond ordinary instruction. The Foundation uses money to fund grant requests from both faculty and students. In the past, the Foundation has provided funds for equipment (e.g. new tympani drums for the band and orchestra), educational field trips, and the visiting author program among other funded projects.

Students and faculty apply for small, medium and large grants from the Foundation for Excellence, depending on the scope and cost of their requests. The Foundation provides an essential resource to cover expenses that are not in the annual operating budget.

The Foundation endeavors to meet needs in these areas of concentration: Literacy, Career and College Readiness, Health, Safety, and Emotional Development, Athletics and Physical Fitness Development and Artistic Expression.

The class of ’85 reunion planning committee utilized a combination of efforts to raise funds. They started by creating a CrowdRise.com campaign to accept donations online using a credit or debit card. By setting up the Foundation for Excellence as the recipient, all donors were issued a receipt confirming their donation for tax deduction purposes. CrowdRise also has the ability for graduates to invite friends, family and colleagues to donate to the campaign as well. The remaining funds were raised through cash donations and the support of Bruno’s Bar, the location of the reunion gathering, which is owned and operated by class of ’85 alumnae Shana Mazzolini and her husband Dean.

The Foundation for Excellence began in 1985. For many years the foundation was funded by teachers and administrators who donated to the program through automatic payroll deductions. Many of those teachers and administrators have since retired so the foundation finds itself in a position where funding is slowing down considerably. With the formation of the SJHS Alumni Giving Challenge, graduates are challenged to organize a campaign for their graduating class to keep the foundation funded as a thriving resource for teachers and students for years to come.

The Foundation is a registered 501(c) (3) non-profit organization making all donations tax-deductible.

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Walmart Employee Recognition

When it comes to giving time, Judy Minner trips the alarm on the Walmart employee Volunteerism Always Pays program.

The special plan (VAP) awards donations in honor of employees who volunteer on behalf of charitable agencies or community support groups based on time spent in that effort. Minner accumulated 100 volunteer hours, meriting a $500.00 Walmart gift split between Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary and Clinton Area Special Advocates, the voice of children in foster care (CASA).

Brian Greenlees, Walmart Manager; Angie Bealls, Co-President, SCH Auxiliary; Minner and Kelly Schafer, Executive Director, CASA.

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Frontier offers higher speeds to commercial customers

Frontier Communications (NASDAQ: FTR), the City of St. Johns, Michigan, Quest Software and the Clinton County Economic Alliance have partnered to bring a new age of high-speed Internet to the city. Business customers in the St. Johns Certified Industrial Park will now be served by a new all fiber-optic infrastructure, making the Park one of the most technologically advanced business sites in Michigan.

“Frontier was selected by the city based on its advanced communications technology and local engagement model that provides a more responsive and transparent customer experience,” said Frontier General Manager Kurt Theisen. “Frontier is a 100 percent, U.S.-based, pro-veteran workforce, and all customers are served by technicians who live in the local community.

“The blend of community-based knowledge and technical expertise made the city and Frontier natural partners. “Frontier is an important economic development ally for our city, empowering our local businesses and companies to now compete on a global scale,” said City Manager Dennis LaForest.

“St. Johns is demonstrating leadership and vision by understanding the importance of community growth, enabling job retention, and ensuring businesses have access to the latest gigabit technology,” said Dru Mitchell, President and CEO of the Clinton County Economic Alliance.

“When St. Johns and Frontier started collaborating, there was no doubt that the St. Johns Certified Industrial Park would be the area’s top high-tech development,” said Quest Owner Ron Zyzelewski. “The Park is a unique development that with help from Frontier, offers the `big technology’ businesses need. Quest is delighted to be a part of this project at the ground level and looks forward to bringing more than 100 new jobs to the local community.”

The City of St. Johns Certified Industrial Park is equipped with Frontier’s full product suite with scalable gigabit data services. In addition, Frontier will offer robust business solutions such as WAN, LAN, point to point, direct internet access (DIA), gigabit Ethernet services, hosted VoIP, backup and sharing, network security, and a wide selection of phone systems and Internet security solutions.

Frontier, the City of St. Johns and the Clinton County Economic Alliance share a vision of a connected community built on a state-of-the-art and expansive fiber-optic network and are excited about the many economic advantages this infrastructure will bring to the area.