Friday Evening Homecoming decorating

by Maralyn Fink

After half time of the football game, I headed to the High School to meet with the Student Council and students to snap some pictures from the start. I spoke with Jamison Cleaver who gave me the info I needed to do this article.

The Student Council holds the Homecoming and started planning for it last summer, planning the date and theme. They also choose the Honorary Redwings at that time.

I was very happy to learn that the theme was “50s Date Night.” They couldn’t have made a better choice in my mind as this also brought back a lot of good times and memories for us folk who lived that era.

Jamison and Jen Eaton who is the President of Student Council, stated that they had a new Adviser this year who is Sheri Becker. The Advisers change around every two years. In having Sheri, participants are here when they are supposed to be and on time. They also said that Sheri has exceeded any expectations that were set.

Thank you, Jamison and Jen along with Miss Becker for letting me take pictures and write about Homecoming Eve. Also thanks to the students who were helping. It was a pleasure. Time to find my cookies for the road.

50s Date Night

Back to the High School on Saturday night, I attended the Homecoming Dance to take me back to the 50s. I was greeted by Mr. Stukey at the door and made my way back to the festivities.

Things were in full swing and everyone was milling around. I then proceeded to the gym where the dancing and DJ were and everyone seemed to be having a great time.

There were plenty of shoes on the tables in the cafeteria, and I wondered if any would fit. But after checking them over I decided I couldn’t stand in them even if they did fit. Oh well.

I wandered around to make sure I saw everything and visited with some of the kids. Pictures were being taken by a photographer, and there was also a photo booth with accessories to wear and that was busy also.

A lot of different snacks were provided but one thing caught my eye – cookies. Well, that just completed my evening, I think I can make it home now!

Thanks to Student Council and all who helped with this event and especially Sheri Becker. To all the students who attended, take time to treasure your school days because before you know it, they will be over.

I appreciate your help and I will see you again soon.

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Arts Council hosting “Art-ful Treasures” sale

A collection of vintage art items will go on sale Tuesday and Wednesday October 19 and 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the storefront at 315 N. Clinton Ave., St. Johns.

All of the art on sale was created by past artists of Clinton County Arts Council. The “Art-ful Treasures” sale will feature a broad selection of wall art as well as some pottery, jewelry and other items.

Many of the works will bear names familiar to local residents, such as Maxine Strahle, Florence Horne, Muriel Gilson and Kathy Martindale.

Jenny McCampbell explained that Clinton County Arts Council has many works of art sitting in storage from its 35 years of serving the community and would like to make them available at prices that will allow everyone to enjoy owning original artwork from this area. Because there are so many items, the sale will take place at 315 N. Clinton Ave., rather than in the Gallery, to better display everything.

Come and browse – no reasonable offer will be refused.

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Class of ’85 – Alumni Giving Update

What an incredible weekend. The Class of 1985’s 30th Class Reunion was a resounding success thanks to the planning committee and of course the classmates who joined in the parade, the school tour, the football game and finally a Saturday evening at Bruno’s.

Thank you to Mark Palmer and Chris Ervin for such a warm welcome back for Homecoming. And congratulations on a great WIN against Owosso. Everyone enjoyed the school tour, and we all left with an incredible sense of pride seeing the facility you have developed to remain a first-class learning institution that is shaping the minds and character of our young people. It is truly impressive. Congratulations and know that you and the faculty have our continued support.

Alumni Giving Challenge Update
The class did some additional fundraising on Saturday night at Bruno’s. Dean and Shana Mazzolini were pleased with the business generated over the weekend from Homecoming and the class reunion that they have decided to host the pizzas served on Saturday evening and not charge the class. This means that, after covering nominal expenses, the remainder of the funds collected will go to the Foundation for Excellence.

The new estimated total is approximately $4,000.

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St. Johns-Ovid Lodge Open House / Yard Sale October 17

Saturday Oct. 17, 2015
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

915 W. State St., St. Johns, MI 48879

$10.00 per 10′ x 20′ space Open to all.

For more information call phone 517-388-0882

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SCH Auxiliary’s BINGO & Bags fundraiser – Saturday, November 14

Ladies, if you like purses you will love the Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary’s new fundraiser.

Gay Baker, Carey Harris, Shelley Gunther and Nancy Mino. Baker and Harris serve as co-chairs for the project.

Auxilians host BINGO & Bags on Saturday, November 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Agro-Culture Liquid Fertilizers in St. Johns.

This unique BINGO features 19 games – each with a Purse Prize valued at a minimum of $60. Purses may also be stuffed with coupons and a few surprises. The afternoon ends with a Grand Finale Game, featuring a designer purse valued at $400.

Your $15 general admission ticket provides one BINGO sheet for each of the 19 games. Buy-in for the Grand Finale Game is 3 sheets for $1. This event includes a 50/50 drawing, door prizes, snacks and a coffee bar.

Ticket sales are limited. Purchase your tickets by contacting Shelley at 517.331.0665 shelleyredman54@gmail.com or Robin at 517.281.8004 robin.motz@53.com.

BINGO & Bags, the biggest fundraiser hosted by SCH Auxilians in 2015, helps the group meet their pledge of $100,000 toward construction of Sparrow Clinton Hospital’s new Emergency Services Department, which has been in full operations since July 2014.

Two additional events round out the Auxiliary’s fundraising calendar this year. Saturday, Dec. 5, marks the Auxiliary’s annual holiday poinsettia sale. On Sunday December 6, lucky shoppers embark on a two-day bus trip to Chicago. Reservations for the Chicago trip must be made by 6 pm Tuesday, October 20.

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Officer installation opens Kiwanis year

A recent reception and dinner at the Emerald Golf Course preceded a formal installation of officers for St. Johns Kiwanis for the club’s 2015-16 year. Leading the ceremonies confirming each officer and board member was Kiwanis District Governor Alana Harvey who during her formal comments commended the club for its achievements, future plans and contributions to the community.

District Kiwanis Governor Alana Harvey (center) leads a unity hand shake with immediate past president of St. Johns Kiwanis Paul Opsommer and newly elected president Shannon Schlegel.

Holding positions for the upcoming year are President Shannon Schlegel, President Elect, Chris Bouck, Secretary Karen Crosby and Treasurer Jan Havlik. Directors include Eileen Bostwick, Sue Lounds and Theresa Fedewa Wells. Outgoing officers and directors include Pau Opsommer, Curt Keck, Joyce Crosby and Marilyn Thelen.

Kiwanis meets 7:07 a.m. each Thursday at Clinton Commons and an open invitation is extended to all persons interested in community service activities.

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Dr. Dedrick Martin earns MASA endorsement

Dr. Dedrick Martin, superintendent of St. Johns Public Schools, recently earned an advanced endorsement on his school administrator certification following completion of the “Courageous Journey” program offered by the Michigan Association of School Administrators (MASA). The voluntary, three-year professional leadership program includes classes, forums and online interactions to advance and apply leadership skills aimed at improving staff and student outcomes in their districts.

“Because the program spans three years it allows superintendents to tackle real transformative changes in their districts that in turn can raise student achievement,” says MASA Executive Director Chris Wright. “Dr. Martin has distinguished himself above his peers by going beyond school administrator certification to learn high-impact strategies that will improve St. Johns Public Schools.”

“Courageous Journey” addresses seven research-based points of learning critical to becoming a highly effective superintendent: leadership, management, relationships and communication, data-informed planning and decision-making, organizational development, politics and teaching and learning.

MASA is the only statewide association that represents the superintendents and first-line administrators of Michigan’s local and intermediate school districts. Its mission is to develop leadership and unity within its membership to achieve the continuous improvement of public education in Michigan.

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Hidden Treasure at Sparrow Clinton Hospital Gift Therapy Shop

U of M fishing lures, tunic tops, purses, Pet items and great tailgating items are all available plus more at Sparrow Clinton Hospital Gift Therapy Shop.

Please stop in at this little treasure of a shop.

Open Monday – Friday 10am-7pm. All proceeds goes towards the $100,000 pledge for the new Emergency Dept of SCH.

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People’s Choice Award goes to P-W Middle School Art Students

The Clinton County Arts Council’s (CCAC) Middle School Art Challenge for 2015 has wrapped up with very close vote totals. Pewamo-Westphalia Middle School edged out DeWitt Junior High by 14 votes out of 1,053 cast for the People’s Choice Award. This award is a check for $300.00 to the winning district’s middle school art program for supplies.

The contest was based on the artistry and creativity of the middle school art students in the four participating districts: Bath, DeWitt, Fowler and Pewamo-Westphalia. The challenge to each district was to develop four posters reflecting Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall.

Many of the votes were accrued when Clinton County Arts Council’s volunteers took the posters to area summer festivals: Bath Days, Most Holy Trinity’s Parish Festival in Fowler, DeWitt Ox Roast, St. Johns Mint Festival and the Pewamo Block Party. There they encouraged passers-by of all ages to vote for the set of posters they liked best. Many people found it hard to choose because all of the students had done such a great job.

Interestingly, more than half the votes came from on-line voting on the CCAC web site. The posters can be viewed by going to www.clintoncountyarts.org and clicking on the link at the left side of the Home page that says “Vote Here for 2015 Art Challenge Posters”. The voting is closed now but the posters for each district can be seen by clicking on the links for Bath, DeWitt, Fowler and Pewamo-Westphalia.

The posters were also judged by two professional artists in the late spring, who awarded a first, second, third and fourth place prize to the districts, again in the form of a check going to each school’s middle school art program for supplies.

“One of the best things about this program is showing off the artistic talents of the young people in this area to so many people,” said Jenny McCampbell, coordinator of the program in 2015.

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CAFR meeting rescheduled – October 28

Clinton Area Fire and Rescue has rescheduled a public meeting on October 28, 2015 at 7:00 pm to discuss the ISO Public Protection Classification in Greenbush, Victor and Washington Townships. The meeting will be held at Clinton County RESA, 1013 Old U.S. 27, St. Johns. Skip Starling, ISO Independent Consultant, will be in attendance to answer questions.

ISO (Insurance Services Office) analyzes relevant data in a community and assigns a Public Protection Classification – a grading from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that the area’s fire suppression program does not meet ISO’s minimum criteria. Clinton Area Fire and Rescue currently has a rating of 4/8Y.

Insurance companies use PPC information to help establish fair premiums for fire insurance – generally offering lower premiums in communities with better protection. By offering economic benefits for communities that invest in their firefighting services, the program provides an additional incentive for improving and maintaining public fire protection.

For more information about ISO and the PPC program visit www.isomitigation.com.

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Senior Center Annual Rock-a-Thon is October 21

On Wednesday, October 21 the Senior Center will hold it’s annual Rock-a-Thon from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Throughout the day participants rock in rocking chairs while playing games, making a craft, telling stories, having lunch, etc. The theme for this year’s event is “Popcorn”. Prior to the event participants collect donations from friends, family members, businesses and neighbors.

The Premier Sponsor for this year’s event is McLaren Health Plan.

Anyone wishing to participate or donate should call the center ASAP.

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Senior Center to Hold Craft Show and Bake Sale – November 14

Mark your calendar to attend a Craft Show and Bake Sale at the Clinton County Senior Center on Saturday, November 14 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.

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City to host annual Zombie Run – Friday October 23

Join us Friday October 23rd in the St. Johns City Park at 6:15 for the 3rd Annual Zombie Run. Navigate the 1.5 mile course as Zombies try to take your 2 “life” flags from your belt. This 1.5 mile road/trail race will take runners through post-apocalyptic St. Johns City Park and Clinton County Fairgrounds.

Cost is $10 prior to race day, race day registration $15. Children 10 and under can run for free with a paid adult registration. Children 10 and under must run with an adult. Registrations for the run can be picked up and dropped off at the City Office and are also available online at www.cityofstjohnsmi.com/Departments/ParksandRecreation. In addition you can register online at www.runsignup.com/Race/MI/StJohns/RUNFORYOURLIFE. Last day to register on line is October 22, 2015. The City Offices are located in the County Courthouse.

Being a Zombie more your style? You can be a member of the zombie horde by going to www.runsignup.com/Race/MI/StJohns/ZOMBIEHORDE. Cost to be a zombie is $8. Deadline to sign up to be a zombie is October 22, 2015. Zombies must arrive early to get painted.

Race check-in will be in the Main Pavilion in the City Park starting at 5:15 PM on race day. All pre-registered runners are guaranteed a belt with “life” flags. Minors under the age of 18 must have a parent’s signature. Children under the age of 12 must run with a parent or guardian. Children 10 and under are free and will need to sign a waiver for children when you arrive on race day. All proceeds will be used for the St. Johns Community Spray Park.

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Soup kitchen makes two stops in area – October 13, 15

His Cup Runneth Over, a mobile soup kitchen, will be making a stop at the First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave, St. Johns 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday, October 13.
They will be at Pompeii United Methodist Church, 135 Burton St. in Pompeii 3 pm to 6 pm., Thursday October 15.

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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An Event So Good It’s Scary – October 30

On Friday, October 30 the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce along with many businesses in St. Johns will be holding their Annual daytime trick-or-treating event for young children. From 3:30-5:30 p.m. young children that are in costume can trick-or-treat at over 30 businesses.

A complete list of businesses that will be participating in the Event So Good It’s Scary will be available after October 26.

If you have any questions about the event; or if you have a business that would like to participate, please call the Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248.

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Christmas Festival coming December 4

The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce will hold their 13th Annual Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at the CC RESA Building, located at 1013 S US 27 in St. Johns.

The event will include a Breakfast with Santa (8-10:30 a.m.), Craft Show and Festival of Trees (8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) and Children’s Make it and Take it Crafts (12:00 – 3:00 p.m.).

Tickets for the Breakfast with Santa are available at the Chamber office, which is located in the CC RESA Building. Adults tickets are $6 and children’s tickets (age 12 and under) are $4. Children 2 and under are free. Breakfast will include scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage links, cereal, muffins and beverages.

At the Craft Show more than 75 vendors will be selling everything from baked goods to quilts, jewelry, wood products and much, much more. A lunch will be available for purchase from the Clinton County Senior Center. If you would be interested in a booth at the festival spaces are available for $30 (for a 7′ space with a 5′ table provided) or $35 (for a 10′ space where you provide the table and chairs).

The Festival of Trees will feature theme decorated Christmas Trees. Everyone will be encouraged to vote for their favorite tree with a monetary donation. The tree that collects the most donations will get to decide which charity gets all the donations collected. If you group, business or family would like to submit a tree, please contact the Chamber of Commerce.

Finally, the Make It and Take It Crafts will be a time where children (of all ages) can come and make some fun crafts for themselves, or items they can make to give as gifts. Most crafts will be .25 or .50 each to make.

If you would like more information about any part of the Christmas Festival, call the Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248.

Fowler Dedicates new mural

by Maralyn Fink

On Saturday, October 3rd I traveled to my heritage village of Fowler for the unveiling of the Mural of the Fowler Depot circa 1912.

Planning started 3 years ago; and an artist from Westphalia, Dan Arens was contacted.

The Village Council decided to have the Mural painted in the township hall so that anyone would be able to stop in and follow the progress. In fact I visited in August and met the artist and took some pictures of his progress.

The Village Council would like to thank the following for all their help in effort to bring a project like this to completion:
– Dan Arens Artist extraordinaire,
– Dallas Township for permitting the use of their property, the old fire hall,
– Mark and Laurie Becker for allowing the Village to put the Mural on their building,
– Vern Feldpausch, Brad Smith and Roy Witgen, the Fowler DPW for preparing the location and all they have done to make this happen,
– Rhonda Feldpausch Village Clerk who spearheaded the entire Fowler Downtown Revitalization of which the Mural is just one initiative,
– John Rademacher, Village Treasurer, for his willing attitude to help in anyway needed,
– Village Council for backing the entire effort,
– Meijer Corporation for providing the Concession Trailer
– All Fowler residents for their support and confidence in the Council.

This was a heartwarming ceremony because this is a Mural of the past and has meaning in the heritage of the Fowler Community.

I always give thanks that some people and places still hold that heritage of the past close to their hearts and do not destroy that image. Thank you Village of Fowler.

Meet the Artist

Dan Arens is the Artist that painted the Mural of the Fowler Depot. It was done from a postcard that a resident of Westphalia had and was given to Dan who then had it enlarged.

He started painting as a child in grade school and has never looked back. Dan is a very talented artist who has spent a large number of hours doing what he loves best.

Dan started this project the first week of May; and when I met him, he had over 300 hours into this project.

The size of the Mural is done on 4 panels that is 9x5ft tall and 20 feet wide. Dan states that panels are more durable and flexible to use for outdoor work.

It would be a worthwhile drive to Fowler to see this. It is on the north side of Becker Furniture.

Dan also has done a Mural at the Battle Creek VA Hospital, Portland District Library and numerous homes. The Youth Center in Westphalia also has an Ark Mural painted by Dan.

Dan told me he has his own trademark that goes on each painting he does. What, I asked. He paints a mouse somewhere on the painting. After looking at it for 20 minutes, I gave up. To this day he will keep that information to himself, and I will keep looking. Dan specializes in murals, wildlife, landscape and pencil art.

Thanks, Dan, for meeting with me; and it was a great pleasure for me. You are blessed with a great talent and are brightening up the life of everyone who is able to see your work.

You can contact Dan at 989-587-6565.

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This week’s Mystery Photo

Where is this?

Can you tell us where this is located? Drop us a line at mail@sjindy.com.

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111 W. Steel St.

The current owners are Raymond and Becky Lober. Previous owners include Olney Moore, Todd Dollarhite, Allen Dault, Central Michigan Lumber, Thomas Pioszak, and Thomas and Lorann Smith.

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A Look Back – Gray Ladies Honored

by Barry Bauer

Honored in April, 1965 for their five years of service to Clinton Memorial Hospital as Gray Ladies were, left to right, Mrs. Raymond Parr, Mrs. Forrest Swatman, Mrs. Cecil Boak, Mrs. Lyle Steves and Mrs. Levi Blakeslee. Mrs. Jeanne Rand, of the Clinton County chapter of Red Cross (right), made the presentation of five-year pins. Also serving five years but absent for the presentation was Mrs. Francis Flegler.

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Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info

5 Signs Your Dog is Stressed (and How to Relieve it)

Is your dog acting unusual? Perhaps he or she seems overly anxious or depressed. Stress is more common in dogs than you may think. Even worse, stress can negatively impact your dog’s health. Here are five common signs of stress and anxiety in dogs to help you identify it and seek help quickly.

1. Diarrhea, Constipation, or other Digestive Issue

Although they are more commonly attributed to disease or food intolerance, gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and constipation can also be brought on by anxiety. Speak to your veterinarian if the diarrhea, constipation, or other digestive issue is abnormally severe, especially if it has lasted longer than 24 hours or if the diarrhea is bloody. Blood in the vomit and/or stool can be an indicator of a food borne illness.

2. Decrease in Appetite

Dogs don’t go on fasts or diets like we do, so it’s important to consult a veterinarian if your pet suddenly loses interest in food or stops eating altogether. It could be due to stress or to an underlying health condition, including anorexia, which can cause your dog to refuse to eat totally and its food intake to decrease so much that it leads to drastic weight loss.

3. Isolation

Some dogs like some alone time now and then. However, a dog that is constantly isolating him or herself from other pets or people may be suffering from anxiety or a sickness. Your veterinarian can help you identify the cause of this strange behavior.

4. Increased Sleeping

By now you will have become accustomed to your dog’s sleeping schedule. Speak with your veterinarian if your dog is sleeping more than usual or seems overly lethargic. Lethargy is often the first symptom that a dog is sick, injured or traumatized. It can also be a symptom of conditions including diabetes, heart and liver problems, tumors, diarrhea and severe dehydration, hypothyroidism, anaemia and poisoning, among others.

5. Aggression Toward People or Other Animals

Aggressive actions toward animals or people can be a sign of a stressed or sick dog. Consult your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist before the problem gets worse. Many aggressive signs are accompanied by a fearful body posture and facial expression, and with submissive behavior. Treatment for aggresion focuses behavior management techniques to assist the dog with its anxiety and anger. Devices such as muzzles can also be effective when the dog is away from home, with all treatment being focused on preventing injury to humans, other animals, and to the dog.

How to Help a Stressed Out Dog

If your dog’s behavior changes suddenly in any way, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. He or she can rule out any underlying medical issues as well as make recommendations to help lower your dog’s stress level. Here are some tips for helping to alleviate anxiety in your dog:

– Play/exercise with your dog regularly – Physical activities like a game of fetch or a walk around the block are a great stress reducer for dogs.

– Create a safe zone – Set apart an area in your home for your dog to escape high-stress events like thunderstorms and parties. Provide your dog with a favorite “security blanket” such as a toy and visit your dog often. If possible, stay with him until the high-stress event has passed. Your presence is a great reassurance to him or her.

– Choose a high quality dog food – Your dog’s diet is an integral part of his health and wellbeing. Providing your dog with a diet that is not properly balanced for his or her life stage and lifestyle may cause unforeseen repercussions that may lead to anxiety and stress.

Obituaries

Marvin J. Fox

Marvin J. Fox, 72 of St. Johns, MI died on Monday evening at Hospice House of Mid Michigan. Marvin was born on March 8, 1943 in St. Johns, MI the son of Urban and Martha (Lenneman) Fox. He graduated from Fowler High School and earned his Journeyman Certification in Tool & Die work and was employed at Motor Wheel and Federal Mogul, retiring in 2005. On June 19, 1971 he married Susan M. Wieber in St. Johns, MI. Marvin was a veteran of the Army National Guard, a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, and of the Knights of Columbus, he delivered meals for Meals on Wheels, loved nature, gardening, animals and playing cards.

Marvin is survived by his wife, Susan, children Adam Fox, Matthew (Lori) Fox both of St. Johns and Katie (Kyle) Gilstad of Midland, MI., Granddaughters Willow Fox and Hazel Gilstad; Siblings, John Fox, Louis Fox, James (Bernie) Fox, Clare (Nancy) Fox, Rosemary (Gideon) Marsal and Marlene (Larry) Krieger. He was preceded in death by siblings, Paul, Mark, Claude, Lloyd, and Hugo Fox.

Funeral services will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Friday, October 9, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Fr. Michael Williams officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Thursday, October 8, 2015, 1-4 and 6-8 P.M. A vigil service will be held at 8:00 P.M. Thursday evening. Memorial contributions may be made to Tri- County Office on Aging-Meals on Wheels, Hospice House of Mid-Michigan or Boysville of Michigan.

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D. Elaine Michutka

D. Elaine Michutka, age 86 of Ovid, passed away on October 5, 2015at Memorial Healthcare in Owosso, MI surrounded by her loving family after a short illness. Elaine was born in St. Johns, Michigan on August 8, 1929 to George and Eloise Myers. She graduated from St. Johns High School in 1947 and attended Grand Rapids Junior College. She married Joe Michutka on June 24, 1950 and they made their home in Ovid and raised three daughters. He preceded her in death in 1972.

She was a secretary for the Ovid-Elsie High School for 16 years and managed the Michutka Milk Hauling business after her husband’s death. She enjoyed many years of retirement traveling with her family and friends. She loved to shower her grandchildren with gifts and cards for every occasion. She also will be remembered by her community as having a generous spirit. Elaine was a former member of the Ovid Historical Society, an avid reader and bridge player. She had served on the Ovid Senior Citizen Housing Board, Catholic Council for Aging and was Grand Marshall of the 2012 Ovid Carriage Days.

Elaine is survived by her three daughters Jan (John) Pearson, LeaAnn (Mike) Dunn, and Amy (Jim) Smith, she has 6 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and many loving friends. She was preceded by her parents George and Eloise Myers and brother Max.

Funeral services will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Ovid on Friday, October 9, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Fr. Raymond Urbanek officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home in St. Johns on Thursday, October 8, 2015, 2-8 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made to Ovid Public Library, Ovid Ambulance Service or Holy Family Catholic Church.

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Albert F. Masarik

Albert F. Masarik of St. Johns passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2015, after a lengthy illness. Born on September 18, 1924, in North Star, Michigan to Rudolph and Mary (Chovance) Masarik. During World War II Al served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Gunner’s Mate on the U.S.S. George F. Elliott, a Troop Transport Ship in the Pacific Theatre. In 1947, he was united in marriage with Lila Mae Cole in Birmingham, Michigan. He retired from Federal Mogul and also worked for Paul Automotive and drove the School Bus for the St. Johns School System. He volunteered for CACS and Walk For Warmth.

Albert is survived by his wife, Lila and children: Ross, Sandra (Douglas) Hankey and Gary (Karen), son-in-law, Roger Hart and his brother, Joseph. He also leaves 13 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren. Al was preceded in death by daughter, Gloria Jean Hart, his Parents, Brothers Joseph, Rudolph, Louis, August, John, and Frank, and Sisters Mary Samuel, Frances Schaub, Velma Moczarski, Margaret Pitchellis, Helen Johnson and Anna Minnie.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home. A Vigil service will be prayed at 7:00 P. M. Funeral Services will be held at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Thursday, October 8, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Fr. Michael Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Johns American Legion or St. Johns V.F.W. of which he was a life time member.

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Marriage licenses filed the week of September 28, 2015

Derek James Huver, 23 of St. Johns and Jamiee Leslie Benner, 19 of St. Johns

Jason Frank Campbell, 38 of Fowler and Katherine Jane Smith, 35 of Fowler

Randy Ray Whitaker, 40 of St. Johns and Rebecca Doreen Fillmore, 41 of St. Johns

Andrew Jeffrey Casler, 26 of Madison, Wisconsin and Audrey Eleanor Maier, 20 of Maple Rapids

Mary Louise McDougal, 60 of Laingsburg and Carrie Lynn Koonter, 55 of Laingsburg

Jeremy Michael Baker, 40 of Hubbardston and Lisa Ann Wheeler, 48 of Hubbardston

Cole Richard Cornwell, 32 of Lansing and Heather Nicole Holtman, 29 of Lansing

Sean Michael Connolly, 34 of Ovid and Christine Leigh Stahlhood, 34 of Ovid

Alexander Clayton Rickman, 25 of St. Johns and Melissa Ann Meaton, 23 of St. Johns

Darren William Fedewa, 27 of St. Johns and Tayler Joan Lamont, 24 of St. Johns

Brandon James Baryo, 25 of Mason and Anna Frances Rademacher, 24 of Westphalia

Samuel Stuart Zeeb, 25 of Bath and Kaila Marie Cook, 23 of Bath

Lynn Mardley Osborne, 33 of Laingsburg and Bonnie Jo Morris, 40 of Laingsburg

John David Bond, 70 of St. Johns and Norrine Kay Penix, 74 of St. Johns

Ronald Joseph Sohn, 56 of East Lansing and Sherry Kay Taunt, 56 of East Lansing

Christopher Lee Queen, 25 of Douglasville, Georgia and Stacy Marie Sullivan, 26 of DeWitt

Brock Jonathan Westen, 26 of Grand Ledge and Jessica Lynne Wyskowski, 22 of Grand Ledge

Michael Joseph Hitchcock, 41 of DeWitt and Alexa Marie Vitek, 37 of DeWitt

Jesse Allen Martin, 26 of St. Johns and Melissa Ann Glowacki, 22 of St. Johns

Brock Alan Baker, 28 of St. Johns and Leslie Lynn Ballard, 25 of St. Johns

Michael Leonard Baran, 30 of Bath and Jami Nicole Davis, 29 of Bath

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Divorce decrees filed the weeks of September 21, 2015

Fahey, Scott Edward and Shannon Lea

Ladiski, Amber Marie and Timothy Scott

Rowland, Blair Thomas Jr and Jennett Marie

Divietri, Nicholas and Jessica

Burgess, Sean Wilfred and Tracy Lea

Divorce decrees filed the week of September 28, 2015

Helms, Cynthia M. and Adrian L. Huss

VanBeelen, Laurie Ann and Matthew William

Gonzalez-Cordero, Dorcas and Manuel Cordero

This week’s News

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City names William E. Tennant Performance Shell

Fall Goose Hunt applications available – Apply by Friday, October 9

I Was Here signs available – Paine-Gillam-Scott House Museum

Adoption finalized in a case with a CASA Advocate

Senior Center Activities – October, 2015

Briggs Library News – Pajamapalooza and more

Soup kitchen makes stops in St. Johns – October 6, 8

City to host annual Zombie Run – Friday October 23

MMDHD Calendar – October 2015

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Features

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This week’s Mystery Photo

A Look Back – A 1972 Football Club Donation

Random Notes – Sunday’s rare supermoon eclipse

Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info – Taking Steps to Prevent Cancer in Pets

Maralyn’s Did You Know? – Recall of One Lot of “Good ‘N’ Fun Dog Treats

Remember when? – Miller Jones Shoe Store

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Transitions

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Obituaries – Shirley J. Fox, Wanda Jeane Hufnagel

Marriage licenses filed the week of September 21, 2015

This week’s Mystery Photo

Where is this?

Can you tell us where this is located? Drop us a line at mail@sjindy.com.

607 N Clinton Ave.

Jane Feldpausch writes: This house is located at 607 N Clinton Ave. The upstairs apartment was my first residence with my new husband in September 1969 until the Spring of 1972. We rented from Sam and Margaret Parks.

Jenny Fleischer adds: This weeks mystery photo is an apartment house with 4 units located on Clinton Ave in the 600 block. We lived in that back downstairs apartment in 1998 for a year while we were building a new house north of St. Johns.

The current owners are Andrew and Marjorie Minarik. Previous owners: include Derwood C. Tuttle, Sam Parks, Clarence Witchell, and Hufnagel.

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A Look Back

A 1972 Football Club Donation

by Barry Bauer

J.W. Staley, left, and Red Devereaux, right, present St. Johns High School Athletic Director Dwane Wirick with a $600 check from the Football Club to help finance the purchase of a universal weight-lifting machine.

The $3,000 unit will be purchased over three years with the help of the club and the athletic department’s activities. The machine will have 15 stations and will be used by the various teams and gym classes for body building and exercise programs.

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Random Notes – Sunday’s rare supermoon eclipse

by Rhonda Dedyne

It was a clear night here in St. Johns on Sunday, so I made a feeble attempt to capture the rare supermoon eclipse.

The phenomenon was well beyond the capability of my digital camera’s ability. Any failings certainly could not have been the fault of the photographer.

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Benny and Jessie’s Pet Info
Taking Steps to Prevent Cancer in Pets

Cancer prevention is certainly a “hot-button” topic in human medicine, and many of the same questions and responses surrounding this subject translate to veterinary medicine as well.

The first step in preventing disease is identifying what causes it in the first place. To say a particular variable “causes” cancer would require performing an accurately designed research study—a daunting task in veterinary medicine because of our inability to control for, or accurately record, the variables that could potentially influence a pet’s exposure to risk factors.

An example of a known etiological (causative) factor for a predisposition to cancer in animals occurs in cats infected with either the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

Cats infected with FeLV are 60 times more likely to develop lymphoma/leukemia compared with healthy non-infected cats. Cats infected with FIV are five times more likely to develop the same cancers. Cats co-infected with both FeLV and FIV are 80 times more likely to develop lymphoma than non-infected cats.

FeLV infection was the most common cause of blood borne cancers in cats during the 1960s – 1980s. During that time, approximately two-thirds of cats with lymphoma were co-infected with FeLV.

With the development of better screening tests to eradicate or isolate infected cats, as well as commercially available FeLV vaccines, the number of FeLV positive cats decreased dramatically after the late 1980s. However, cats still frequently develop lymphoma, and the overall prevalence of this cancer actually increased over time. The disease appears to be shifting to other anatomical locations, namely the gastrointestinal tract. What then, is responsible for causing lymphoma in cats now?

There are only a handful of research studies available that examine the causes of cancer in pets. To my knowledge, despite the large body of information on the internet suggesting otherwise, commercial diets, vaccination (other than for sarcoma developments as listed below), tap water, shampoo, or cat litter have not been accurately studied and proven to cause cancer in pets.

There are three “take home” areas I would like to highlight that summarize what we know about proven causes of cancer in animals.

Environmental exposures
The three biggest culprits included pollution, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), and pesticides. There is evidence supporting an association between exposure to ETS and lymphoma and nasal tumors in dogs and lymphoma in cats.
Exposure to pesticides containing dichlorophenocyacetic acid (2,4-D) is associated with increased risk of lymphoma in dogs; however, data is conflicting.

Dogs living in urban areas are at increased risk for developing lymphoma.

Neuter status
Hormones can act to promote or inhibit tumor development, depending on the specific cancer in question.
Female dogs are less likely to develop mammary tumors when they are spayed early in life, presumably due to lack of exposure of mammary tissue to ovarian derived reproductive hormones.

However, neutering may actually cause an increased risk of developing prostate cancer in male dogs, indicating a possible protective effect of hormones in such cases.

Neutering may also increase risk of developing osteosarcoma and transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder in dogs, regardless of gender.

Administration of injections
The administration of injections (not only vaccinations) can cause injection site sarcomas in cats, but the injection alone is not sufficient to create tumors. More and more evidence points to an inherent susceptibility to tumor development that is “set into motion” in response to the injection.

Despite not knowing the exact causes of cancer in pets, there are several preventative measures owners can take to help ensure their companions remain as healthy as possible for as long as possible.

One of the simplest preventative measures owners can do is to schedule regular physical exams for their pets every 6 to 12 months. This ensures that any changes in status, body weight, etc. are closely monitored and tracked over time so concerns can be addressed as soon as early signs are noted.

Any newly noted skin masses should be evaluated as soon as they are noted. It is impossible to determine if a skin mass is benign or malignant based on appearance or feel alone; a fine needle aspirate and/or biopsy should be performed to determine whether further action is necessary.

Routine lab work and imaging tests such as radiographs (X-rays) and ultrasound scan can also be helpful in assessing a pet’s overall health. Even when we are unsure about how to truly prevent cancer, such diagnostics can mean earlier detection of disease, and can often lead to a more favorable prognosis.

Cancer prevention is an important aspect of any pet’s routine healthcare, and these simple measures can help pet owners and their veterinarians work together to ensure that our beloved companions live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

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Maralyn’s Did You Know?

Recall of One Lot of “Good ‘N’ Fun Dog Treats

Salix Animal Health, LLC today announced it has initiated a voluntary recall of one lot of “Good ‘n’ Fun – Beefhide Chicken Sticks” because it may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Salmonella can affect animals eating the product and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some, or all, of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The recalled “Good ‘n’ Fun – Beefhide Chicken Sticks” was distributed nationwide by Salix Animal Health to Dollar General and Dollar Tree retail stores.

The recalled product is packaged in a 2.8 ounce bag stamped on the back side with lot # AO15010 and with an expiration date of 03/2018. The UPC code is 0 91093 82247 1.

No pet or consumer illnesses from this product have been reported to date. However, because of our commitment to safety and quality, Salix Animal Health is conducting a voluntary recall of this product.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the Georgia Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Salmonella in one 2.8 ounce package of “Good ‘n’ Fun – Beefhide Chicken Sticks” labeled with the recalled code.

No other product is affected at this time. Customers should look at the lot code and expiration date on the product package to determine if it is subject to the voluntary recall. Customers who have purchased the product subject to this recall are urged to dispose of the product or return it for full refund.

We take our responsibility to pets and their owners seriously and as a result we are investigating the cause of this problem so that we can prevent it from occurring in the future. Salix Animal Health, is also working with retailers to ensure that the affected product is no longer sold and removed from inventory.

If you have these products, please contact Salix Animal Health’s consumer affairs team at 1-800-338-4896, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time for a refund. Customers with questions may call the consumer affairs team at the number listed above.

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Remember when?
Miller Jones Shoe Store

by Maralyn Fink

Who can resist a shoe store especially at a young age?

Miller Jones Shoe Store was in the first block on Clinton Ave. on the West side.

As I said before, I always passed by on the way to work at the Library. Looking thru the window I saw the latest styles of the times.

How would that pair look, I wondered but the price said probably not well.

Maybe they were $3.00, but that was more money than I had.

Through the years, different shoe stores opened in that same spot and by today’s prices for shoes, they were a bargain.