Spray Park mural unveiled

Tracie Davis and Diane Harte of Tiny by Design Art & Whimsical Party Gallery were on hand to celebrate the unveiling of the community effort.

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National Nigh Out is Tuesday, August 1

St. Johns National Night Out celebration will be held on Tuesday, August 1 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the St. Johns City Park.

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’80s vibes come alive Aug. 2 in St. Johns via Miranda and the M80s

No matter what age you are, there’s something infectious about Miranda and the M80s sound that makes people want to “move, get into the groove.” The premier ’80s tribute band is set to play songs from the decade of rock/pop and dance hits Aug. 2 in the weekly St. Johns Concert in the Park summer series. The music begins at 7 p.m. at the William E. Tennant Performance Shell in St. Johns; no admission charge.

Vocalist Miranda Amy and her three-octave voice delivers on all the songs that made you either “fall in, or fall out ” of love. She is backed by Jeff Dietrich on drums, Len “the Axe” Zielenski on guitar and track composing, and Drew Garrison on bass guitar. The foursome who all hail from Michigan deliver an energetic, authentic sound of the original songs they cover.

Miranda and the M80s have enjoyed playing to audiences for the last three years from Ohio to Michigan and for all types of events from benefits to dance clubs to corporate parties and concerts. For information on the group visit www.mirandasm80s.rocks or check out their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/mirandaandthem80s

Concert in the Park is sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council and the City of St. Johns with support from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. Concerts are held each Wednesday evening; rain or shine. The St. Johns Lions and Lioness Club staff a concession stand offering light refreshments.

Visit the CCAC web site for other show dates in August, http://www.clintoncountyarts.org/ or the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell page on Facebook.

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Ready for the Pageant – August 8

The Mint City Pageant girls painted their backdrop for the pageant. They all put their heart into the project and worked so hard to make it just right.

The Mint Pageant will be held Tuesday August 8.

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Try out the giant paint brush

Clinton County Arts Council Vice President, Jenny McCampbell, stopped by to test drive the interactive component of the Gill-Roys Mural. Be a part of the fun and stop by to hold the giant paint brush!

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Headline Performers at the 2017 St. Johns Mint Festival

Country music in its purest form – that’s Louie Longoria. The talented performer takes the stage Sat, Aug 12 from 4-6 pm at the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell. There is no admission charge for the show – just bring a lawn chair or blanket.

Part of the traditional Country music scene for more than 25 years, Longoria was born and raised in Michigan although his roots trace back to Pearsall, Texas, where his parents were born. Growing up in a small community Longoria has always been around Country music and is most comfortable with the sounds of “pure Country” like Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and George Strait, all of whom brought small-town America to the big stage. Longoria has a versatile voice that can handle a wide variety of music including both old and new Country music.

Cajun, Western Swing, Tex-Mex, Bluegrass – the Jack Clarkson Band will do it all on Sun, Aug from 1-4 pm at the Performance Shell.

The band’s namesake has played with a variety of well-known musicians during his long career. Jack has opened for the “Father of Bluegrass” Bill Monroe, and played with Martha and the Vandellas, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings and many others.

Jack is joined by his wife Tess Clarkson who sings, plays keyboard and guitar.

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Ted Lewis is honored as 2017 Mint Festival Parade Grand Marshal

By Rhonda Dedyne

If you’ve ever attended a Mint Festival Parade, Clinton County 4-H Youth Fair, Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day observances in St. Johns, you owe this year’s Mint Festival Parade Grand Marshal the late Ted Lewis a big “Thank You.” A true unsung hero, Ted was the “sound” guy whose audio equipment and expertise made the songs and sounds at those events resonate for the participants and crowds of spectators for many years.

The fact that most people are probably unaware of the important role Ted played in a multitude of community activities is easy to explain – he didn’t enjoy being in the spot light, especially when it involved giving back to his hometown. Ted passed away this past April.

“Ted liked helping out with the different events and was always tinkering with the sound and audio-visual equipment he set up to make it better,” Nancy says about her husband’s years of volunteer service. “He was a good guy – we all miss him.”

Clinton County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Brenda Terpening can attest to that fact, and to Ted’s reluctance for being in the limelight.

“I met Ted when I started with the Mint Festival 16 years ago,” she says. “He told me then that he would volunteer for the festival every year, but we would probably never see him much – and that’s true. Ted would come in before the event and get the sound all set up, and then come back after everything was over to take things down. Many of the committee members never even met him, but they knew they could not do their job during the weekend without him.”

The St. Johns native graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School in 1957, and served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Toledo where his talent with all things electrical was put to good use in radar electronics. After his stint with the Navy ended in 1960, Ted worked as an electrician at the family’s store in St. Johns. He was employed at the Michigan State University Instructional Media Center for 31 years. Ted also owned and operated Lewis Communications. He performed forensic analysis and was a member of the Central Michigan Law Enforcement Agency.

Despite a full work schedule, Ted always made time to lend a helping hand at community functions. In addition to his volunteer efforts on behalf of the 4-H Fair, Mint Festival, Memorial and Veterans Day parades, he was the “behind-the-scenes-soundman” for the annual Santa Parade, car shows and special events in and around downtown St. Johns.

“Ted was always ready to help out – he was absolutely reliable,” Dan Redman, Executive Director of the St. Johns Principal Shopping District and Downtown Development Authority says. “It was an honor for the DDA to present his family with a commendation thanking Ted for his volunteer efforts on behalf of the city.”

Ted’s years of service on the Clinton Area Care Center Board of Directors was similiarly recognized prior to his passing by fellow board members and the CACC administration and staff.

As the 2017 Mint Festival Parade winds through the city streets and ends on Clinton Avenue in the downtown business district, it’s entirely appropriate for area residents and all the volunteers Ted worked with over the years to say a final “thank you,” Terpening says. “We appreciate his many years of service to the Mint Festival – he will truly be missed.”

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Fowler dedicates depot

by Maralyn Fink

In 2012 the idea was born to build a replica of the Fowler Depot as it was back in the day.

Jeffery Zaslow, author, came into Fowler and was inspired by Becker’s Bridal Shop to write a book called “The Magic Room”. While there, he said that Fowler was a tired looking town.

Thus began the the idea for the Depot. An Artist from Westphalia has done a mural of that scene that is on the north side on the wall of Becker Furniture.

With the completion of the depot near, the dedication was scheduled for Thursday July 27 at 6 pm.

I went to that location on Wednesday to take pictures of the finished project. The Village has been selling bricks for the paved entrance to the building, and I purchased one for my parents who were born and raised there.

Bricks are still available at the village office, or call 989- 593-2080 and Rhonda will help you.

St. Johns Concert in the Park – 2017 Schedule

Aug. 2: Miranda & the M80s; 80s Hits
Aug. 9: Toppermost; Beatles Tribute Band
Aug. 16: Mountain Town Singers; Barbershop Chorus
Aug. 23: Roaring Twenties Band; Vintage ’20s
Aug. 30: Matt King; Elvis Impersonator

William E. Tennant Performance Shell; St. Johns City Park, Wednesday evenings; 7 p.m.; Rain or Shine

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SJHS Cruise-in Car Show – an album

by Maralyn Fink

On Wednesday evening I attended the 47th Anniversary of the St. Johns High School cruise-in. This event is part of the high school auto program and was held in the school parking lot.

Dash plaques were given to the first 150 vehicles.

Food and non-alcoholic beverages were available by the SJHS Cheer Team. Live music was also presented by Louie Longoria.

Proceeds from the Cruise will benefit the Auto Program Scholarships.

A lot of Back In The Day autos were on hand. Ah Memories!

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Mint Country Garden Club Meeting

The monthly meeting of Mint Country Garden Club will be held Thursday, August 3, at 7:15 pm.

Ann Boone will talk about the MSU Healing Gardens located near the MSU Radiology Building. Meetings are held at Clinton Commons Community Center, 1105 S. Scott Rd, St. Johns. Visitors are welcome to attend.

For further information about this meeting or how to become a member, email mintcountrygardenclub@gmail.com or call 517-599-6307.

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Japanese garden updated

Thanks to Pete Motz and Plumline Landscaping, the Japanese garden at the Briggs District Library has been spruced up.

Pete and his crew removed three junipers that no longer did well due to the extra shade the garden now receives. They also planted two groups of three hostas of different varieties, cut away the black plastic around the middle tree, and add pea stone and the larger stone over the whole garden.

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70th Anniversary card shower

The family of Wheeler and Shirley Wilson would like to celebrate their 70th Wedding Anniversary on August 2, 2017 with a card shower.

Please send cards to 4440 West Maple Rapids Road St. Johns, Michigan 48879.

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Most Holy Trinity Parish Festival, Fowler – July 27 – 30

New this year, from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, is Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in church, followed by Mass at 5:00 pm.

Raffle drawings for cash prizes totaling $6,000 and quilts and afghans will begin at 6:30 pm.

A complete schedule of events, contact information, and registration forms for Volleyball and Three-on-Three Basketball can be found at the parish website: http://www.mhtparish.com/ (click on the MHT Parish Festival event image).

Everyone is welcome to join them for Festival 2017. Further questions: please contact the Parish Office at 989-593-2162.

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Emerald Endowment Day – Wednesday, August 2

Wednesday, August 2nd The Emerald Golf Course is hosting an Emerald Endowment Day. For every 18-hole golf game and cart purchased, a donation will go towards launching a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in Clinton County.

The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is currently with Clinton County community partners to establish a CAC to serve children who may have experienced abuse and/or neglect.

Celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day with golf and supporting Clinton County Children! The Emerald is located at 2300 W. Maple Rapids Road, just north of St. Johns.

For more information about the CAC, please visit VoiceForClintonCountyChildren.org; for more information about The Emerald please call (989) 224-6287.

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Ice cream social to benefit fire department

Lowe United Methodist Church, 5485 W. Lowe Rd., is hosting their annual Ice Cream Social on August 27 from 2-5 pm. Homemade Ice Cream and food will be provided.

All proceeds will go to the Maple Rapids Fire Department.

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CRV to visit Air Zoo – deadline August 14

Community Resource Volunteers are taking a trip to the Air Zoo in Portage, MI on August 22, 2017.

There will be a charge of $20.00 per student. They will leave from the CRV offices at 8:00 a.m., returning at 5:00 p.m. Please bring a sack lunch, snacks and drinks in a backpack.

Please register at www.crvonline.org or call our office at 517-672-4226. Sign-up Deadline is August 14.

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Sparrow Clinton Pharmacy earns Certificate of Distinction

The Joint Commission (TJC) recently awarded a Certificate of Distinction for Medication Compounding to the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Pharmacy.

The St. Johns Pharmacy is the first member of the Sparrow family to earn this notable award, and among only 75 Michigan pharmacies to be recognized this spring.

Pharmacy Manager Julie Schrantz and her outstanding team are among the first in Michigan to earn a Certificate of Distinction from The Joint Commission for Medication Compounding.

To earn TJC Certificate of Distinction, Sparrow Clinton Pharmacy met rigorous standards of care, including Caregiver training in proper use of personal protective equipment and aseptic technique; sterility of base products, beyond use dates, and labeling; and environmental quality standards regarding airflow, buffer areas, guidelines for cleaning and documentation, and storage.
The Joint Commission’s Medication Compounding Certification is a voluntary certification program for hospitals and home care agencies seeking an independent evaluation and recognition of compliance with United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP®) Chapters 797 and 795. Michigan is the first state to require certification.

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Soup Kitchen makes stops in area – All are welcome

His Cup Runneth Over, a mobile soup kitchen, will be making a stop at

– First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave, St. Johns 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, August 1 and at

– Middleton Community Church, 223 S. Newton, Middleton, from 5 p.m to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, August 1 and

– First Baptist Church/Beacon of Hope (northwest parking lot), 512 S. US 27, from 12-1:30 pm, Thursday, August 3

– Pompeii United Methodist Church, 135 W. Burton, Pompeii, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, August 3.

Soup, bread, fruit and dessert will be served to all who come free of charge. For more information call 989-533-9535 or 989-544-5764

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MMDHD Calendar – August, 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

August 1: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Pill Pick-up Only
August 8: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 15: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 22 . 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
August 29: 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:

August 2
August 14
August 30: 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.

August 23: at Valley Farms Baptist Church, 1141 E State Rd, Lansing,
from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. until 3 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

August 7: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 9: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 14: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 17: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
August 21: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
August 28: 8 a.m. to noon 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.

Root Doctor brings its signature style July 26 at Music in the Park

One of the best-known bands in mid-Michigan and beyond offers up its signature style of classic Soul, R&B, traditional Blues and original material July 26 at the William E. Tennant Performance Shell when Root Doctor makes a long-awaited, debut appearance in the weekly St. Johns Concert in the Park summer series. The music begins at 7 p.m.; no admission charge.

Born of the fertile Lansing, Michigan music community, Root Doctor had its humble beginnings in the open mic scene of the late 1980s. The deeply rooted, soulful connection shared by founding members Freddie Cunningham (lead vocals) and James Williams (bass guitar and vocals) anchors the band’s sound.

Root Doctor has kept one other constant over the years: a powerful soul-blues sound with precious few peers. The current line-up features Chris Corey (keyboards), Bill Malone (guitar and vocals), and Clarence Dottery (drums) – all veteran performers whose abundant abilities allow Root Doctor to continue its long tradition of amazing audiences and wowing critics. 

Along with over 25 years of club, concert and festival performances, Root Doctor has released six recordings to local and national acclaim. Their 2014 release, “New Attitude,” features primarily original material and received rave reviews internationally.

Concert in the Park is sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council and the City of St. Johns with support from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. Concerts are held each Wednesday evening; rain or shine. The St. Johns Lions and Lioness Club staff a concession stand offering light refreshments.

For detailed information on the Concert in the Park series visit the CCAC web site, http://www.clintoncountyarts.org/ and check out the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell page on Facebook.

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Sparrow Clinton Hospital honors local Nurse

A Sparrow Clinton Hospital Nurse’s special care of her Patients helped earn her the hospital’s DAISY Award for exceptional nursing skills.

Mariah Hesse, Sparrow Clinton Director of Patient Care Services; and Ed Bruun, Sparrow Clinton President and CEO; celebrate with DAISY Award winner Teresa Miller, RN; and Beth Daugherty, Sparrow Clinton Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care Services.

Teresa Miller, RN, developed a passion for Nursing as a child. By age 16, she was already assisting elderly ladies in her neighborhood as a nurse’s aide.

“I always wanted to be a nurse,” said Miller. “Talking to Patients, seeing to their needs, and making them comfortable is all part of the healing process. I try to make every day a good day for Patients and coworkers.”
Miller gained praise from her Patients for her empathetic, understanding, and caring disposition.

“Without her empathy and understanding, I would have been an emotional wreck,” wrote one of the Patients who nominated her for the DAISY Award. A Sparrow Clinton Caregiver commented, “Teresa always steps up – going above and beyond to support our Nursing team.”

An excellent role model for Sparrow Clinton Nurses, Miller’s message hit home when her own daughter recently earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Miller started her career as an LPN in Hospice Home Care during the late 1980s. She joined the Sparrow Clinton Medical Surgical Unit in 2002, earning certification as an RN. She has these words of advice for new Nurses: “Be good to every Patient. Treat them all like family.”

Daugherty joined DAISY committee nurses in presenting Miller with the award, a certificate of recognition, a DAISY pin, and a hand-carved sculpture entitled The Healer’s Touch. In addition, a DAISY Foundation banner signed by Miller will be posted in the hospital.

Nurse nominees Gretchen Priess, RN, BSN; Amber Piper, RN; Kelsey Arver, RN, BSN; Marge Simon, LPN; Melissa Ball, RN; Sarah Veith, RN, BSN; Angie Bratschi, RN, BSN; Melanie Kotowicz, RN, BSN; Teri Carey, RN, BSN; Mary Rathbun, RN; Wendy Embs, RN, BSN; and KJ Sarata, RN, BSN, also were recognized. Each received a DAISY pin and flowers.

Sparrow Clinton Hospital honors two nurses each year as DAISY Award winners. To nominate an exceptional Sparrow Clinton Nurse, complete and return a form from one of The DAISY Foundation displays at the hospital.

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City newsletter

St. Johns Mint Festival 
The St. Johns Mint Festival will be August 11-13, 2017 with events taking place at the St. Johns City Park and also downtown St. Johns. For the event schedule at the park, please visit the Clinton County Chamber website at www.clintoncountychamber.org. For the downtown events which include a car show, beverage tent and live band, visit www.downtownstjohns.org.

Downtown Banner Poles
The City of St. Johns, in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority (downtown businesses), is installing banner poles in the first block of downtown. The banner poles will be used for various holiday and festival banners throughout the year. The poles will also have electricity to be used for lighting.

The City appreciates the relationship with the downtown businesses and the $15,000 contributed toward this project goes a long way to making this project possible.

2018-2022 Street Millage Renewal 
Over the past several months, the City Commission and city staff have been looking at how best to continue the street improvement program. Since the program started in 2014, about 12 miles of streets along with curb and gutter and sidewalks have been improved across all quadrants of the city. This accounts for approximately one-quarter of our local streets.

At the July 10, 2017 City Commission meeting, after much discussion and debate, the commission adopted a resolution authorizing renewal of the dedicated street improvement program, subject to voter approval. The levy for the renewal will be slightly different in that it will be for a lesser millage but will be in effect for five years instead of four years. As with the previous street millage, all funds can only be used for street improvements. The proposed ballot language has been submitted to the Governor’s Office for approval.

City residents will have the opportunity to vote on this millage renewal at the November 7th election. Stay tuned for specific information regarding the planned street projects over the next several years, which will include specific streets to be resurfaced and the year in which construction will occur.

City Pension Obligation
Each year the city levies and collects general operating tax revenues based on the taxable value of the real and personal property within the city limits. These funds provide the following services to the citizens of the community: police and fire protection, elections, administration, including accounts payable and tax/utility bill collections, community development, assessing, department of public works, parks maintenance, and recreation.

These tax dollars also go toward paying the legacy retirement costs to the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System (MERS). MERS is an independent, professional retirement services company that administers our defined benefit pension plan. Using actuarial valuations performed each year, MERS determines our required annual minimum contributions in order to fund the retirement payments for our current and future retirees. The main plan was closed in 2003 which triggered a reduction in the amortization period. Reducing the amortization has the benefit of setting a time certain for paying down the liability but also means the required payments increase significantly each year. In fiscal year 2013/2014, the general fund share of the payments to MERS was $357,198. For fiscal year 17/18, the general fund share is budgeted at $590,122. That is a 65% increase in 4 years. In that same time frame, property tax revenues have increased only 1.7%.

Water/Sewer Billing—Ordinance Change 
In an effort to better manage our water/sewer utility and improve our cash flow, the city commission recently ratified Ordinance No. 629. This ordinance made revisions to city code 51.10 (B), Enforcement. The previous city code required that the city shut off water service for delinquent accounts. The new Ordinance gives the city the discretion to turn off water service to those customers who are delinquent on their water/sewer bill. Per the ordinance, the quarterly billing is considered delinquent if not paid within 30 days after the due date. Currently, we are working to educate city residents regarding this change. Letters have been sent to certain identified homeowners and tenants who have delinquent amounts owing.

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Emerald Endowment Day – Wednesday, August 2

Wednesday, August 2nd The Emerald Golf Course is hosting an Emerald Endowment Day. For every 18-hole golf game and cart purchased, a donation will go towards launching a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in Clinton County.

The Voice for Clinton County’s Children is currently with Clinton County community partners to establish a CAC to serve children who may have experienced abuse and/or neglect.

Celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day with golf and supporting Clinton County Children! The Emerald is located at 2300 W. Maple Rapids Road, just north of St. Johns.

For more information about the CAC, please visit VoiceForClintonCountyChildren.org; for more information about The Emerald please call (989) 224-6287.

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Ice cream social to benefit fire department

Lowe United Methodist Church, 5485 W. Lowe Rd., is hosting their annual Ice Cream Social on August 27 from 2-5 pm. Homemade Ice Cream and food will be provided.

All proceeds will go to the Maple Rapids Fire Department.

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Moolenaar’s Office Accepting Internship Applications

Congressman John Moolenaar (R-Midland) is currently accepting applications for congressional internships in his Washington, D.C. office for Fall 2017.

The internship program is open to college students and recent graduates who are interested in learning more about our country’s legislative process and the day-to-day operations of a congressional office. Intern responsibilities include conducting tours of the U.S. Capitol, researching federal legislation and assisting legislative staff. Interns will also have the opportunity to attend legislative briefings, congressional hearings and receptions on Capitol Hill. Applicants are asked to provide a cover letter, resume and any specific legislative issues or areas of interest. Applications should be submitted by the close of business on Friday, July 28.

College credits are available per school requirements.

For more information and to apply for the summer semester, please visit https://moolenaar.house.gov/internships.

St. Johns Concert in the Park – 2017 Schedule

July 26: Root Doctor; Classic Soul/R&B/Blues
Aug. 2: Miranda & the M80s; 80s Hits
Aug. 9: Toppermost; Beatles Tribute Band
Aug. 16: Mountain Town Singers; Barbershop Chorus
Aug. 23: Roaring Twenties Band; Vintage ’20s
Aug. 30: Matt King; Elvis Impersonator

William E. Tennant Performance Shell; St. Johns City Park, Wednesday evenings; 7 p.m.; Rain or Shine

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70th Anniversary card shower

The family of Wheeler and Shirley Wilson would like to celebrate their 70th Wedding Anniversary on August 2, 2017 with a card shower.

Please send cards to 4440 West Maple Rapids Road St. Johns, Michigan 48879.

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July 24-28 VBS to be a family event

A summer family event called Rome: Paul and the Underground Church will be hosted at First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Street, from July 24-28. Families step back in time at Rome, exploring the life of the apostle Paul and the underground church. Kids and adults make memorable Bible-times treasures, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, dig in to Roman eats, visit Paul while he’s under house arrest. Activities are designed to teach God’s Word. Each day begins and ends at Extollo—a time of upbeat worship that gets everyone involved.

Kids and adults at Rome will join nearly a million participants in Operation Kid-to-Kid—a project to help provide clean water to people in Peru. With this service opportunity, families’ donations will change the lives of other families across the globe by helping provide them with safe drinking water.

Rome will run from 9:00 A.M to 11:30 A.M each day.

Early registration at the church website ends July 23. Walk-in registration begins July 24. For more information, call 989-224-2636.

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Most Holy Trinity Parish Festival, Fowler – July 27 – 30

New this year, from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, is Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in church, followed by Mass at 5:00 pm.

Raffle drawings for cash prizes totaling $6,000 and quilts and afghans will begin at 6:30 pm.

A complete schedule of events, contact information, and registration forms for Volleyball and Three-on-Three Basketball can be found at the parish website: http://www.mhtparish.com/ (click on the MHT Parish Festival event image).

Everyone is welcome to join them for Festival 2017. Further questions: please contact the Parish Office at 989-593-2162.

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Sparrow Clinton names Volunteers of the Year

Members of the Clinton County Open Food Distribution Team were recently recognized as the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Volunteers of the Year for their outstanding community service.

The food bank opened its doors in 2002, thanks to support from the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Foundation and the Greater Lansing Food Bank. The group now distributes food on the second Thursday of each month from the Bath Township Hall, assisting an average of 90 families per month. In 2016, members distributed 83,760 pounds of food to friends and neighbors in need.

Team members were honored at the April 27 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. All hospital volunteers who attended enjoyed chair massages, hand treatments, aroma therapy, and a buffet luncheon in celebration of their commitment to the hospital.

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Maple Rapids and Lowe UMC to host VBS

Vacation Bible School will be held at Maple Rapids UMC, 330 S. Maple Avenue on July 25, 26, 27 from 5:30 pm until 8:15 pm for children ages 4-12.

Maple Rapids and Lowe UMC to host VBS Vacation Bible School will be held at Maple Rapids UMC, 330 S. Maple Avenue on July 25, 26, 27 from 5:30 pm until 8:15 pm for children ages 4-12.

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Sparrow Clinton Hospital Foundation awards healthcare scholarships

Clinton County students pursuing healthcare careers recently each received $1,500 in scholarship assistance from the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Foundation in St. Johns.

2017 Whyman Scholarship winners are Lauren Bates of St. Johns High School, Brianna Braun of Fowler High School, Monica Buhr of Lake Superior State University, Meghan Curtin of St. Johns High School, Rachel DeSantis of Cornerstone University, Olivia Groves of Pewamo-Westphalia High School, Alyssa Huhn of Pewamo-Westphalia High School, Callie Labar of St. Johns High School, Shannon Sturgis of St. Johns High School, and Tori Wirth of Lansing Community College.

The Merten and Geraldine Whyman Health Careers Scholarship Fund, an endowment fund established in 1986, provides annual scholarships for education in a health-related field to Clinton County residents. The fund has grown, thanks to additional contributions by community members. To date, 282 students have received Whyman scholarships, representing a total education investment of more than $281,600.

For more information about this scholarship or other philanthropic projects, call the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Foundation at 989.227.3333.

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Leonard announces office hours

Speaker of the House Tom Leonard, R-DeWitt, will host office hours to meet with local residents and discuss their concerns about state government. Speaker Leonard represents Michigan’s 93rd District.
The coffee hours will take place Friday, August 11, 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at Big Boy, 1408 Old U.S. 27, St. Johns, MI 48879.

Local residents are encouraged to bring comments, questions and concerns about local government and anything else happening in the local community. Residents with questions about the coffee hours, or those who cannot make it, can contact Speaker Leonard’s office at 517-373-1778 or by emailing TomLeonard@house.mi.gov.

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Soup Kitchen makes stops in area – All are welcome

His Cup Runneth Over, a mobile soup kitchen, will be making a stop at

– First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave, St. Johns 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, July 25, and at

– Beacon of Hope/First Baptist Church, 512 S. US 27, St. Johns, from 5:30 p.m to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 25 and at

– Four Seasons Apartments, 1268 W. Clark Rd., DeWitt, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, July 27 and at

– Ithaca Church of God, 624 Barber St., Ithaca, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 27.

Soup, bread, fruit and dessert will be served to all who come free of charge. For more information call 989-533-9535 or 989-544-5764

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Briggs District Library News

“Flying Aces Professional Frisbee Team” Save this Date – Tuesday, July 25, 7-8pm! Our Summer Reading Finale will feature the athletic skills, fun, humor and instruction of a professional Frisbee team. This FREE program will take place at library. Face Painting by Sharon will be available under the pavilion. No registration is necessary.

Thank You – Thank you to the Library Friends Group. They are a small group of dedicated individuals who manage the book sales on the first and third Saturday of the month and the annual Mint Festival Sale. The funds they raised this past fiscal year were used to fund an author visit, a subscription to Book Page, replace the puppet theater and purchase a number of items to enhance Library programs. The Library appreciates all the hard work that they do as it allows the Library to better serve the community.

Mint Festival -The Library Friends Group will be having their annual Mint Festival Book Sale on Friday August 11 from 2:00-8:00pm, Saturday August 12 from 10:00am-8:00pm and Sunday August 13 from 10:00am-5:00pm. The sale is being held in the warehouse on the backside of the Library. Parking is available on Spring Street and in the Higham Street lot. Come check out all the wonderful books.

‘Tweens – Tweens ages 9-12 can join us on Tuesday, August 8 from 6:30-7:30 when we get creative with paper crafts. The next session of this active, hands-on program will feature a variety of decorative, useful, and fun craft activities. Registration is required and is now available.

Toddler – (ages 2-3 with participating adult) Wednesdays, August 2-23, 10:30-11am, includes stories, music, movement and take-home crafts. Registration is required and opens Wednesday, July 5. This information is also available on our website briggsdistrictlibrary.org. and brochures @ the circulation desk.

Play-Doh Play-Time – We’ll provide the Play-Doh, YOU provide the creativity! Open to children ages 4-6 years old. Tuesday, August 15, 6:30 to 7:30pm. Registration is open now.

Starting School Story-Time – Ages: going into Pre-School or Kindergarten. Thursday, August 17, 6:30-7:30 pm. There will be school stories, a craft and snack. Registration is required and opens on Thursday, July 27.

Brunch Bunch – There is still time to register for the next session of our Brunch Bunch program. Tweens ages 9-12 looking for their next great read can join us on Wednesday, July 26 from 11:00-11:45am for a program that mixes a book talk with crafts, activities, and food! Our next book is The Warden’s Daughter by Jerry Spinelli, the story of 13-year-old Cammie, who has grown up living inside a prison with her father, the warden. Copies of the book will be available the day of the program.

Chapter Chatter – (ages 6-8, independent listeners) On Monday evenings, August 7-28, 7-7:45pm, staff will share the chapter book “Stinkbomb and Ketchup – Face and the Badness of Badgers” by John Dougherty over the course of 4 weeks. This program includes snacks, crafts and games. Registration is required and open now!

Summer Movie Series –Family Movie Fridays wrap up on July 28 with a family-friendly movie and free popcorn at 2:00p.m. Each Friday in August we will show movie musicals for adults and teens. More information on specific titles and registration can be found at the library or on our website.

S.A.M. in the Summer – Hands-on-fun in Science, Art and Math. The kids had lots of fun being artists in June and scientists in early July. The series of programs concludes with fun math activities (Monday, July 24, grades going into 1 – 3 and Monday, July 31, grades 4-6). All sessions are from 3 to 4pm. Registration is required and is now open. All programs are free.

Used Books– The staff at Briggs District Library is always accepting donations for new or gently used children’s books to be given away at programs such as an Event So Scary, Project Connect, and 1000 Books before Kindergarten. We accept donations of board books, picture books, and chapter books for children ages birth through high school.

Library Closure– The Library will be closed Saturday August 12 during the Mint Festival. Railroad Street in front of the Library will be closed to traffic starting Friday evening and all day Saturday. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout this closure.

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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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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.