Sister Act comes to SJHS – November 11-13

by Maralyn Fink

On Thursday I went to St. Johns High School to attend the dress rehearsal for the upcoming Drama Club play Sister Act.

Rehearsals stared in September, and the play was chosen by the Director Barry Palmer. The student director this year is Skyler Glass. Nicole Eller directs the chorus. Dawn Flynn is chair of the costumes.

The pit orchestra is directed by Justin Valla with Don Snelling doing the props.

This week was full dress rehearsals from 4-7 p.m. every day. There are 40 plus students in this production. Lyndsay Pung chairs the choreography.

If you have seen the movie Sister Act you will love the live version that these students are putting on. Each member is trying very hard with full effort put into this play.

I spoke with Chance Timm who says that Mr. Palmer is a wonderful director who can be harsh when needed. He always gets the job done and makes sure they ge the best production they can. Mr. Palmer has been Head Director for 3 years after being Assistant Director for 5 years.

The play runs from Friday night through Sunday afternoon, November 11-13. Tickets are on sale for $10 each at the box office or by calling 989-227-4112.

So folks, for a very entertaining evening head to St. Johns High School for a pure night of laughter and enjoyment and see what our students are capable of.

---

Head out to the Trail

Head outside and use the Fred Meijer Clinton Ionia Shiawassee Trail in town.

While you are using the trail, check out the new wayfinding signs that were just installed with funding from the DALMAC Fund. https://www.facebook.com/tcba.dalmac/

---

Sen. Stabenow visits Downtown St. Johns

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow made an Official Visit on October 28 at 2 pm to Downtown St. Johns.

Mayor Dana Beaman welcomed her to St. Johns and presented her with an official City of St. Johns Flag that has flown over City Offices and Clinton County Courthouse in downtown St. Johns. Other City Commissioners included Bob Craig, Bob Bellgowan, Eric Hufnagel and Vice-Mayor Heather Hanover. Dennis LaForest, City Manager was also present as was Dan Redman, Executive Director of St. Johns PSD/DDA.

Following a visit to Uncle Johns Cider Mill, Stabenow met with business owners at Back Alley Pet Grooming, Studio Retreat and Art Gallery, and Rehmann’s Clothing.

“When we support small businesses and entrepreneurs, our economy in Michigan thrives,” said Senator Stabenow. It was inspiring to meet these innovative and resilient business owners in St. Johns.”

“It is very nice to have someone like Senator Stabenow who is local and appreciates small business owners,” said Brad Rehmann, Partner at Rehmann’s Clothing. “We are happy to see her taking a stance that helps grow our flourishing downtown.”

Stabenow met with businesses in St. Johns as part of her small business tour across the state. Senator Stabenow’s small business tour has included stops in Imlay City, Lapeer, Battle Creek, Albion, Portland, Ionia, Harrison Township, Mount Clemens, Utica, Plainwell, Paw Paw, Benton Harbor, Monroe, Jackson, Flint, Bay City, Ludington, Onaway, Grand Haven, Hastings, Holland, Muskegon, Marquette, St. Ignace and Escanaba.

---

Big Boy to honor Veterans with free breakfast

The St. Johns Big Boy® will be honoring area veterans with a free breakfast on Veteran’s Day.

From 7:00 to 10:30 a.m., on Friday, November 11, any veteran can stop by the Big Boy® to enjoy a trip to the breakfast buffet compliments of David Hunt, owner of the Big Boy® Restaurants in St. Johns, Mason, Essexville, and Stevensville.

“It is our pleasure to honor the men and women who have served our country,” said Hunt. “We are blessed with freedom and rights that so many others around the world don’t enjoy and are also blessed with the dedication of those in uniform. This is a small gesture of appreciation to all those who have served in any branch of the military.”

The St. Johns Big Boy® is located at 1408 S. U.S. 127. For further information, you may call the restaurant at 989-224-6828.

---

SJHS grad produces video

SJHS 2008 graduate Chris Zuker produced a beautiful video feature of the Upper Peninsula for the 2016 Fresh Coast Film Festival. It is titled “Burst into Northern Michigan.”

Take a couple of minutes to view his amazing work and the beauty of our Great Lake State.

Burst Into Northern Michigan II from Chris Zuker on Vimeo.

---

Habitat to build in Elsie

For the first time in over 35 years a new home is being constructed in Elsie, Michigan.

Join Habitat for Humanity in erecting the walls for this decent, affordable, four-bedroom house, which will become home to a deserving and qualified family.

On Saturday, November 12th beginning at 9 am, Habitat will be operating under the direction of the Counstruction Chief, and they will need several strong, willing hands to get the structure enclosed before Ole Man Winter comes blustering in.

For more information or to sign up, all or email Community Engagement Coordinator Meredith Reynolds at volunteer@habitatclinton.org or (989) 227 1771 ext. 4.

---

Community Thanksgiving Day Dinner coming November 24

Downtown St. Johns – seatings at noon and 1:30 p.m.
Across from post office at 100 Maple St., coordinated at First Congregational Church

Share this feast with others in the community, The traditional menu includes turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, locally grown squash and apple or pumpkin pie.

Water Tower Star removed

Due to needed repairs, the star on the water tower near Sparrow Clinton Hospital has been removed.

Unfortunately, because it is late in the season and the weather is unpredictable at this time of year, the star will not be placed back on top of the water tower in time for this holiday season.

The City plans to have a revamped star placed on the water tower sometime before the 2017 holiday season.

---

November activities at Clinton County Senior Center

Are you 55 years of age or older and like to have fun? Then check out the Clinton County Senior Center, 201 E Walker St. in St. Johns. It is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Here are some of the activities going on in November:

Senior meals – Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday a nutritional meal is served at Noon for senior citizens. The meals are available for a suggested $3 donation. Some of the meals in November include Turkey, Goulash, Chicken Parmesan and Stuffed Green Peppers. For a complete schedule, call the center, 989-224-4257 or stop in and pick one up.

Bingo – Bingo will be held every Tuesday and Friday, 12:30 p.m. The cost is $1 and every player will win 4-5 items. Prizes include things like canned goods, personal care items, cereal, peanut butter, snacks, cookies and chocolate.

Euchre tournaments – On November 14 & 28 Euchre tournaments will be held 1-3 p.m. If you eat lunch at the center before cards the tournament is only $1. If you come just for the tournament it is $2. On November 7 & 21 the Euchre tournament will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. and everyone pays $2. The tournament is pretty fast paced so you need to know the basics of the game, but you don’t have to be a great player to come and have fun.

Trivia Contest – On Monday, November 7 and 21 there will be a no cost Trivia Contest from 1-3p.m. There are a lot of clues given, so don’t worry about being the smartest person in the room. Small prizes are awarded throughout the contest.

Birthday Party – Each month the center celebrates the birthdays of any member that is celebrating a birthday in that month. Members get free lunch, cake and ice cream and a special sweet treat. The party for November Member birthdays is planned for Wednesday, November 9.

General Public Lunches – Every Monday lunch is open to the general public – no matter what age. A fundraiser meal is made by volunteer cooks each week in their licensed kitchen. The cost is only $5 for the full meal or $3 for a sandwich and chips. Meals in November include Nov 7-Shepards Pie, Nov 14-Sweet & Sour Chicken, Nov 21-Brunch and Nov 28-Meatballs. Homemade pie is also available for only $1.50 a slice. Monday meals are served 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Take outs are available.

November Party – On Wednesday, November 30 there will be a special party for members, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. The theme for the November party will be “Get Ready for Winter”. Start coming to the Senior Center and you can enjoy these fun monthly activities.

Seniors are always welcome to stop in to use the exercise room, work on a puzzle, play other card or board games or just to socialize.

If you don’t think you are old enough for the center, but want to support them in some way, consider donating items they can use for the center such as Styrofoam plates, bowls, cups, napkins, toilet paper, and paper towels or things for bingo such as candy bars, cereal, canned fruit, bagged snack foods, etc.

If you have any questions about the Senior Center stop in or give them a call at 989-224-4257.

---

Nurturing Parenting Series – Ages and Stages of Growth for Infants and Toddlers, November 9

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

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

Sessions Schedule Wednesdays:

November 16: Ways to Enhance Positive Brain Development in Children
November 23: Communicating with Respect & Building Self-Worth in Children
November 30: Understanding Feelings
December 7: Understanding and Developing Family Morals, Values and Rules
December 14: Praising Children and their Behavior & Understanding Discipline
December 21: Learning Positive Ways to Deal with Stress and Anger

---

Get Smart About Your Mouth Workshop

On Wed, November 9 at 11:00 am there will be a brief workshop at the Clinton County Senior Center on Tooth Wisdom. You will learn how to maintain your oral health and learn tips and tricks to keep your smile healthy and more.

The Clinton County Senior Center is located at 201 E Walker Street in St. Johns. If you would like to attend, please call them at 989-224-4257 to register.

---

An Early Childhood Training: Tools for Building and Supporting Early Childhood Development

Working with Parents, Educators, Caregivers and Community Support Systems

Clinton County MSU Extension and Clinton County RESA invite you to learn from “our crew” of experts in child development including a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, and early childhood educator. We will explore how children 0-4 years old develop language, speech, motor skills, and sensory awareness and ways to support that growth and development.

This is a free series open to the community; attend one session or all four (see schedule below). Childcare training hours are available for licensed providers. All sessions will be held at the CCRESA Admin Building, 1013 S. US 27, St. Johns, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. For more information or to enroll for the training, call Clinton County MSU Extension: 989-224-5240.

Session three: Monday 11/14
Sensory Awareness and Fine Motor Development
Early Childhood Occupational Therapist

Session four: Thursday 11/17
A Panel Discussion with the Experts

---

Briggs Library News

Season for Being Thankful – It is the season to be thankful and as a Library we have a lot to be thankful for this year. The Library is blessed to have a community that supported our transition from a City department to being our own governmental entity. We were blessed a second time when the community passed a millage in support of the Library. Your generosity means the world to the Library. Finally, the bonds that allowed the Library to purchase the facility and property back in 1997 were paid off in Oct. The community now owns the Library property and facility. On Thursday Nov. 17, the Library would like to say thank you for all the community it has done for the Library this past year. Please stop by the Library for cider and cookies during our regular hours, 10:00am-8:00pm.

Tween – ‘Tweens ages 10-12 can join us on Tuesday, December 6 from 6:30-7:30 for a series of “A Minute to Win It” Christmas games! Registration is required and opens on Tuesday, November 15.

Family Game Night – It will be a night of fun for the whole family on Thursday, December 15 from 6:30-7:30. We will provide the games and the snacks, and you can compete as a family in new and classic card and board games. Registration is required and opens Thursday, November 17.

Holiday Programs – HO! HO! HO! It is that time of year again! There will be music, stories, games, crafts and refreshments! There will be a jolly man in a red suit that will visit with each child. This is a great photo opportunity so make sure to bring your camera with you. You are invited to enjoy our Holiday Programs on Thursday, December 1st (6-8pm), Friday, December 2nd,(6-8pm) or Saturday, December 33rd (10:30-noon). Registration is not required for any of these FREE programs. FYI: Railroad Street will be closing @ 4:30 Friday evening only due to Downtown Development Authority events. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding this parking issue.

Thanksgiving Program – Wednesday, November 9th, 6:30-7:30 pm. Children ages 3 to 6 years old (independent listeners) are invited to a Thanksgiving celebration. There will be turkey stories, a holiday craft, game and a yummy snack! Registration is required and open now.

Chapter Chatter – “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown will be the book we share over the course of 4 weeks: Monday evenings 7-7:45 pm, November 7th – November 28th. Children ages 6 to 8 years old (independent listeners) will enjoy listening to staff read from the book and also listen to parts of the story from the audio book. Other titles by this author will also be included. There will a “robot” craft that will be put on display in the library. Snacks will be provided as well. Registration is required and is open now.

Socktober Success! – Library patrons were very generous in their contributions of socks. We collected 292 pairs of socks! There were itty bitty ones right on up in sizes for male & female. Thanks to all who contributed. There will be warm feet thanks to your warm hearts. We are also proud to announce the winner of the sock puppet contest: Erin Mansfield won with her puppet named Buttons. She received a Christmas Sock Monkey craft kit as her prize. Thanks to Judge Judy for her interest and time. We will be back next “Socktober”

Library Closure – The Library will be closed on Friday Nov. 11 in observance of the Veteran’s Day Holiday. The Library will close at 6:00pm on Wednesday Nov. 23 and be closed Nov. 24, 25 and 26 for the Thanksgiving Day Holiday. The drop box on the Library porch will be available for returns throughout these closures.

Bookaholics Book Club – The selection for November is Me Talk Pretty One Day, a collection of autobiographical essays by humorist David Sedaris. Sedaris looks back at his childhood in North Carolina filled with speech therapy classes and unwanted guitar lessons, and recounts his move as an adult to France, where is limited knowledge of the language leads to awkward social situations and deep cultural confusion. Copies of the book are now available. The Bookaholics is an open club, so all are invited to join us when we meet next on Thursday, November 17 at 6:30p.m.

******

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

---

Moolenaar announces office hours

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

November 15

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

2:00-3:00 PM
Carson City Public Library
102 West Main Street
Carson City, MI 48811

November 30

11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Gratiot County Courthouse
Commissioner’s Room
214 East Center Street
Ithaca, MI 48847

---

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.

---

Mark Your Calendar

St. Joseph Carnival is November 5

******

Mint City Singers is selling Younkers Community Day Booklets – November 9 – 12

Booklets can be purchased from any member. Community Day’s is a four-day shopping event at Younkers. The company has generously created this event to enable non-profit 501C3 groups and schools to raise money to support their mission.

******

Veterans dinner November 11

The Charge Outreach Group of Lowe and Maple Rapids United Methodist Churches will be hosting a free Veteran’s Appreciation Dinner at Lowe, 5485 West Lowe Rd. St. Johns, on Friday, November 11th at 5:00 pm. Veteran’s and their families are invited for food and fellowship, please RSVP to 989-224-4460.

******

Knights of Columbus Annual Fundraiser – Friday, November 11

******

Dinner Theatre in Laingsburg – November 17, 18, and 19

Laingsburg High School will be performing the show Crazytown as a Dinner Theatre November 17, 18, and 19. Dinner begins at 6 pm show starts at 6:30. Tickets $15 in advance, $20 night of the show. Email LHSdinnertheater@gmail.com to reserve tickets.

******

Starry Night Gala – Friday, November18

The doors to the Wilson Center will open on Friday, Nov. 18 at 6:00 p.m. with a silent auction – the program begins at 7:00. Tickets to the Gala will be sold for $25 at the Art Gallery or at the door.

******

Calling on St. Johns residents to decorate outside of their houses by December 2nd

http://www.sjlightfest.com/contest.html

******

Crafters needed for December 3 Craft Show

If you would be interested in having a booth, call the Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248 or you can print off the application from their website at www.clintoncountychamber.org/events at the bottom of that page.

Castle Groundbreaking Ceremony

by Maralyn Fink

It was a crisp morning on Friday for the ceremony but all went off fine.

This was done for St. Johns’ newest community, Castle St. Johns. The independent living community is for those 55 and older.

The Castle will have 30 two bedroom apartments. The rents range from $506.00 to $800.00. Occupancy is anticipated by October of 2017. A reception was held after the ceremony at the Court House.

Equities, Phillip Seybert and Garrett Seybert, say they would like to thank the following for their efforts to make this development possible:

– City of St. Johns
– City Commission
– Planning Commission
– MSHDA Great Lakes Financial Group, PRHCLLC
– Cinnaire
– KMG Prestige
– HUD

Thank you, Bob Craig, for the information and picture taking help.

Maralyn@sjindy.com

---

City Manager’s Newsletter

Leaf Collection: Autumn is definitely upon us. Fallen leaves are carpeting residential yards. We commend our residents for their widespread use of garden bags for leaf disposal. Please remember it is an ordinance violation to rake leaves into the street. This practice creates a potential public safety hazard and creates backups of the storm water sewer system. Violators will be subject to a civil infraction fine. If a resident needs additional yard waste bags they can be obtained at no charge from the City Offices, Briggs District Library or by contacting DPW Supervisor Jeremy Ritter at 989-224-8944, ext. 229.

Elections: Remember to vote on Tuesday, November 8th! Exercise your civic right and fulfill your civic duty by going to the polls. A full ballot of candidates could lead to some delays in voting, so arrive as early as you can at your polling place. Any questions concerning absentee ballots, precinct polling locations or other election questions can be directed to City Clerk Mindy J. Seavey by calling 989-224-8944, ext. 223.

Music In The Park Report: Bill Tennant attended the City Commission’s October 24th meeting at which time he gave a summary report of the highly successful 2016 Music in the Park series. These musical performances are supported by the City of St. Johns and the Clinton County Arts Council as well as the donations of concert goers. Each year we experience better talent and larger crowds. Bill Tennant is to be commended for the many hours of hard work he puts into arranging for and putting on these terrific summer evening concerts. The City appreciates the relationship with the Clinton County Arts Council in providing this quality entertainment venue and the exceptional talent selection by Mr. Tennant.

Hicks Property: The City is evaluating the possible purchase of land on which the Hicks grain elevator is sited near the railroad depot north of the CIS rail-trail. The City Commission recently approved funds for a Phase II environmental evaluation of the property. This evaluation will determine the extent of environmental contamination on the site, which will then allow the City to then obtain an estimate of the cost of remediation. The staff and Commission are supportive of this acquisition providing the property may be used for intended purpose.

Groundbreaking For Senior Housing: On Friday, October 21st a groundbreaking ceremony was held for Castle St. Johns, a downtown apartment complex being developed for low to moderate income senior citizens. Phil and Garret Seybert of P.S. Equities Inc. represented the development company. Local and state dignitaries attended the event, as well as representatives from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, who provided the tax credits and the financing partner Cinnaire. PS Equities President thanked the City staff and Commissioners the PSD/DDA board and others for the support. Expected completion date for the project is in the fall of 2017. For more information regarding rents and apartment availability please contact P.S. Equities, 805 W. Broadway Ste. 1, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858, or call (989) 779-9995.

City Commission Supports Blue Bus: The City Commission adopted a resolution at its October 24 public meeting in support of the Clinton Transit Millage Renewal Ballot Proposal. This important public transportation entity serves many citizens who do not drive or have private transportation options. There is a critical need to maintain funding for this service at a time when demand is increasing across the county.

Halloween Hours: Trick or Treat hours for Halloween in the City are from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please drive carefully on city streets during this time as little ones (and not-so-little ones) navigate the neighborhoods while making their rounds.

---

Redwing Royalty

Great parade and a huge football victory – Homecoming 2016 at St. Johns High School was fantastic.

Reigning over the Homecoming festivities were King Jake Halitsky and Queen Mary Ballor.

Student representatives and members of the Homecoming Court were (front row l-r): Reagann Meyers, Morgan Leavitt, Sydney Padgett, Emily Thelen, Maddie Crum, Emily Chamberlain and Mary Billips. Back row l-r: Fernando Jimenez Alamillo, Spencer Miller, Matthew McCarthy, Ethan Webster, King Jake Halitsky, Queen Mary Ballor, Ross Feldpausch, Brady Fallor and Sam Beagle.

---

Knights of Columbus Annual Fundraiser – Friday, November 11

Mark your calendars for Friday, November 11 for a night out at the K of C annual Wine and Cheese brown bag auction. Proceeds go to support the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Clinton County.

The event will take place at the K of C Columbian Hall located at 1108 N. US-27 here in St Johns.

This event has been done for over 20 years, and the planning starts 3 months in advance. Dean Hartenburg and Eric Hufnagel are Chair and Co-Chair.

Cheese and snacks will be provided by the K of C’s membership. You can also bring a bottle of Wine to share.

Here’s how it works. Bring a $20.00 or more gift in a brown paper or decorative bag that will be auctioned off. Auctioneers are Dean and Eric who make a good duo. Bags bring in different prices done by the design of the bag.

There are intermissions breaks that include lottery tickets in a frame, 50/50 drawing for a chance to win the lottery frames and thru out the evening everyone is able to be in the door prize drawings.

Donations are also accepted if you are unable to attend and can be sent to Knights of Columbus, 1108 N. US-27. St Johns.
All monies collected are used to help send someone to camp and for special activities for the troops. All proceeds do stay local. A representative from each troop will tell how they will spend the money.

The event starts at 7pm with doors open at 6:30 pm. New this year will be samples of Oh MI Organic Chocolates. So folks, let’s make this a date night out and have some fun. You must be 21 to enter.

Maralyn@sjindy.com

---

Local store launches book donation drive

In honor of Veterans Day, St. Johns’ Postal Connections is rallying to “Share Your Story” in a month-long, community-wide book donation drive.

From Tuesday, October 11 through Friday, November 11, Postal Connections is partnering with Operation Paperback to gather gently used paperback books to donate to active troops and veterans in need. Postal Connections in St. Johns will be accepting donations from local residents, businesses and community members to send to troops serving overseas and on U.S. soil. Books must be gently used paperbacks that are in good condition (i.e., no books that are old, musty, yellow with bent spines or ripped covers). Suggested book genres include action, bestsellers, biographies and memoirs, fantasy, history, horror, mysteries, science fiction, true crime and children’s books for military families. Educational and homeschool materials are also welcome.

“The men and women who have served and continue to serve our country are making one of the greatest sacrifices there is,” said Fred Morache, COO of Postal Connections. “We are proud to be teaming up with Operation Paperback to provide veterans and active duty troops with books donated by the people back home who truly appreciate the work they do to protect us all.”

In addition to overseas locations, Operation Paperback provides books to wounded warrior programs and veterans hospitals located across the U.S., as well as USO centers at U.S. airport transit points. The organization has more than 19,000 volunteers from all 50 states, forming a network of shippers that send upwards of 15,000 books every month to troops.

---

Fundraising Flag Campaign – St. Johns Redwings Boosters

Car Flags – Each 10″ x 14″ car flag is double-sided with a block out liner, and comes attached to a sturdy 21” pole suitable for speeds up to 35 mph. …. $19.95 + $4.95 shipping = $24.90

******

Garden Flags – Each 12” x 18” (11” x 16” when sewn) garden flag is finished with a pole hem for hanging. …. $17.95 + $1.95 shipping = $22.90

******

House flag – 2′ x 3′ Flags- Each 2′ x 3′ custom house flag is made from sturdy polynex and finished with a pole sleeve. …. $39.95 + $4.95 shipping = $44.90

Purchase online at http://www.northstarflags.com/fundraiser-st-johns-redwings-boosters.html

---

Habitat house in need of an owner

This beautiful, energy efficient two bedroom home is in need of an owner. The partner homeowner of Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County has decided to remove herself from the Habitat program.

This house is handicap accessible, energy efficient, has a double lot and is perfect for empty nesters, retired folks, small families or single people. This is the perfect house for those who have a low to moderate income.

Please help Habitat find their new partner homeowner.

Just to be clear, Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County works with all applicants regardless of age, familial status, race, color, religion and country of origin. They build houses with home buyers in need, and all houses are built handicap accessible and energy efficient. They build houses to meet the needs of the applicant.

This particular house may not meet the needs of all who need housing, but they have other lots and other locations throughout Clinton County where they will be building, and they encourage all to apply. For more information go to http://habitatclinton.org/

Halloween At The Museum – Sunday, October 30

Paine-Gillam-Scott Museum will open the Carriage House and Bastille for Halloween Fun.

Cider, donuts and treats will be served Sunday, October 30th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm in the Carriage House. The Carriage house features transportation, farming, manufacturing and is decorated for Halloween.

Don’t miss touring the Paine-Gillam-Scott House with the 2016 Exhibit of Clinton County Early Farming and Swegles General Store, including the Dentist office. The house, store and carriage house are filled with artifacts that belonged to Clinton County residents.

Paine-Gillam-Scott Museum located at 106 Maple Street, west of the Courthouse, is open Wednesday 2 to 6:30 pm and Sunday from 1 to 4 pm. For further information, contact the Museum at PGSMuseum@hotmail.com, call 989-224-2894 or 989-292-9096. Our website is PGSmuseum.com.

---

---

Trick-Or-Treating Hours

The St. Johns City Commission has set the hours for Trick-or-Treating within the City of St. Johns on Halloween, Monday, October 31, 2016, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to be signaled by the blowing of the fire whistle.

As in the past, the City Commission asks that all residents light their porches and drive carefully on Halloween Night.

---

Legend of Sleepy Hollow is Friday October 28

Vineyard production presents: Legend of Sleepy Hollow this Friday October 28 at 7 pm, at the Wilson Auditorium

Madeline’s Lamp will be presented on Friday, November 4 at 7 pm.

The plays are created and presented by local youths in this area!. Come on out and enjoy some family friendly plays,

Tickets at door $12 or $10 at Clinton County Arts downtown.

---

Mint Country Garden Club Meeting – November 3

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

Kurt Wolf with Gratiot Conservation District will speak about the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative.

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.

---

Dinner Theatre in Laingsburg – November 17, 18, and 19

Laingsburg High School will be performing the show Crazytown as a Dinner Theatre November 17, 18, and 19.

Dinner begins at 6 pm show starts at 6:30. Tickets $15 in advance, $20 night of the show.

Email LHSdinnertheater@gmail.com to reserve tickets.

---

Senior Center to hold Craft Show and Bake Sale – November 12

Mark your calendar to attend a Craft Show & Bake Sale at the Clinton County Senior Center on Saturday, November 12 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The Senior Center is located at 201 E Walker Street in St. Johns. The Senior Center has many volunteers that make things for the center throughout the year that will be available for purchase at the sale.

The craft show will benefit the Senior Center while proceeds from the Bake Sale will benefit the Clinton County Meals on Wheels program. If you have any new crafts you would like to donate to the sale, please drop them off at the Senior Center Monday through Friday except Thursday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Or if you need something picked up, please call 989-224-4257.

If you would like to make something for the bake sale, please call Meals on Wheels at 989-224-3600.

---

Nurturing Parenting Series – The Philosophy and Practices of Nurturing Parenting, November 2

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

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

Sessions Schedule Wednesdays:

November 2: The Philosophy and Practices of Nurturing Parenting
November 9: Ages and Stages of Growth for Infants and Toddlers
November 16: Ways to Enhance Positive Brain Development in Children
November 23: Communicating with Respect and Building Self-Worth in Children
November 30: Understanding Feelings
December 7: Understanding and Developing Family Morals, Values and Rules
December 14: Praising Children and their Behavior and Understanding Discipline
December 21: Learning Positive Ways to Deal with Stress and Anger

---

An Early Childhood Training: Tools for Building and Supporting Early Childhood Development

Working with Parents, Educators, Caregivers and Community Support Systems

Clinton County MSU Extension and Clinton County RESA invite you to learn from “our crew” of experts in child development including a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, and early childhood educator. We will explore how children 0-4 years old develop language, speech, motor skills, and sensory awareness and ways to support that growth and development.

This is a free series open to the community; attend one session or all four (see schedule below). Childcare training hours are available for licensed providers. All sessions will be held at the CCRESA Admin Building, 1013 S. US 27, St. Johns, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. For more information or to enroll for the training, call Clinton County MSU Extension: 989-224-5240.

Session one: Tuesday 11/1
Motor Development: Allowing Time and Space for Gross Motor Skill Development
Early Childhood Physical Therapist

Session two: Thursday 11/3
Language and Speech Development: Stages and Strategies to Support Development
Early Childhood speech-language pathology

Session three: Monday 11/14
Sensory Awareness and Fine Motor Development
Early Childhood Occupational Therapist

Session four: Thursday 11/17
A Panel Discussion with the Experts

---

HeartMiRun Virtual 5K to benefit Michigan state parks

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has announced that the HeartMiRun Virtual 5K will take place through Dec. 15. A portion of the event’s proceeds will go back into Michigan state parks.HeartMiRun medal

“The HeartMiRun is a great way to get out in state parks, while helping raise funds for them at the same time,” said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. “The format of this 5K is unique because it allows participants to choose where and when they participate and offers the perks of a traditional 5K, such as a race T-shirt and medal. We thank Epic Races for partnering with the DNR on this unique event.”

This virtual 5K takes walkers and runners off the sidewalks and roads and into Michigan state parks and recreation areas. Participants will discover shady trails winding through wooded forests, sunny pathways that border sparkling lakes and the simple serenity of Michigan’s great outdoors. The cost is $40 and the deadline to register is Tuesday, Nov. 1.

To participate in the HeartMIRun Virtual 5K, follow these steps:

Register for this event at RunSignUp at www.epicraces.com/event/heartmirun. The deadline to register is Nov. 1.

Locate a state park, forest, trail or public land managed by the DNR.

Head to your chosen park and go for your HeartMIRun run, walk or skip or anything on your own two feet through Dec. 15.

Visit the HeartMIRun Facebook event page and “join” the event. Upload your run or walk using MapMyRun or Strava.

Look for your finisher’s medal, T-shirt and auto decal that will be mailed Dec. 16.

The HeartMIRun Virtual 5K is is part of the Pure Michigan FITness Series of events and is endorsed by the Michigan Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports.

For more information, contact Eva Solomon, Epic Races, at 734-678-5045 or eva@epicraces.com.

---

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.

---

Mark Your Calendar

October 28 Euchre Tournament

On Friday October 28 the St. Johns Mint Festival will hold their 2nd Euchre Tournament, open to the general public. The tournament will be held at the Clinton County Senior Center,

******

The community is invited to join us at St. Peter Lutheran School on Friday, October 28th from 6-8 pm for the annual Fall Fest and Trunk-or-Treat

******

Halloween At The Museum – Sunday, October 30

Paine-Gillam-Scott Museum will open the Carriage House and Bastille for Halloween Fun. Cider, donuts and treats will be served Sunday, October 30th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm in the Carriage House.

******

Trick-Or-Treating Hours

The St. Johns City Commission has set the hours for Trick-or-Treating within the City of St. Johns on Halloween, Monday, October 31, 2016, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to be signaled by the blowing of the fire whistle.

As in the past, the City Commission asks that all residents light their porches and drive carefully on Halloween Night.

******

Maple Rapids Turkey Supper – November 3

Maple Rapids United Methodist Church at 330 S. Maple Avenue in Maple Rapids, will be hosting it’s annual Turkey Supper on Thursday, November 3rd. Bake sale starts at 4:00 pm, dinner at 5:00 pm. Take out orders are available, call 989-682-4548. Free will offering.

******

Eureka Turkey Supper – November 3

The Eureka Church will be holding a Turkey Supper, with all the fixings, Thursday, November 3, 2016. Serving from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm. Take-outs are available.

******

St. Joseph Carnival is November 5

******

Mint City Singers is selling Younkers Community Day Booklets – November 9 – 12

Booklets can be purchased from any member. Community Day’s is a four-day shopping event at Younkers. The company has generously created this event to enable non-profit 501C3 groups and schools to raise money to support their mission.

******

Veterans dinner November 11

The Charge Outreach Group of Lowe and Maple Rapids United Methodist Churches will be hosting a free Veteran’s Appreciation Dinner at Lowe, 5485 West Lowe Rd. St. Johns, on Friday, November 11th at 5:00 pm. Veteran’s and their families are invited for food and fellowship, please RSVP to 989-224-4460.

Starry Night Gala – Friday, November18

The doors to the Wilson Center will open on Friday, Nov. 18 at 6:00 p.m. with a silent auction – the program begins at 7:00. Tickets to the Gala will be sold for $25 at the Art Gallery or at the door.

******

Calling on St. Johns residents to decorate outside of their houses by December 2nd

http://www.sjlightfest.com/contest.html

******

Crafters needed for December 3 Craft Show

If you would be interested in having a booth, call the Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248 or you can print off the application from their website at www.clintoncountychamber.org/events (at the bottom of that page).

---

MMDHD calendar – November 2016

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

November 1: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
November 8: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Pill pick-up only
November 15: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m
November 22: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m
November 29: 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Pill pick up only

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

Hearing and 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:
November 2,
November 14
November 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.

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

November 7: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

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

November 14 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m

November 17: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 pm to 5 p.m

November 21: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m…

November 28: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Flu shot clinics are as follows:

November 3 a.m. only

November 23

For more clinic information, and to schedule an appointment, please call 989-224-2195

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.