St. Johns Middle School Presents A Winter Concert
Featuring the 7th and 8th Grade Orchestras, Jennifer Parker directing
Positive Mental Health needed during the Holiday Season
The holidays can be a joy-filled season, but they can also be stressful and challenging, because anyone can struggle with mental health.
A National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) study showed that 64% of people with mental illness report holidays make their conditions worse. For individuals and families coping with mental health challenges, the holiday season can be a lonely or stressful time, filled with anxiety and/or depression. If you’re living with a mental health condition, stress can also contribute to worsening symptoms.
Here are some suggestions for how you can reduce stress and maintain good mental health during the holiday season:
Focus on what you can control. It’s okay to feel anxious. Only control what you can.
Make time for yourself. Spending time with family or friends can be overwhelming. If you need a moment to yourself, try sneaking away to a quiet room or going for an early morning walk.
Ask for help if you need it. If you are feeling extra sad, stressed, anxious or depressed, ask for help. Talk to someone you trust, a mental health professional or a primary care physician for guidance or support.
Kiwanis Club shops with local children
St. Johns Kiwanis Club 707 held their annual Shopping with a Kiwanian at Walmart in St. Johns. It is a favorite event with club members and local kids.
FFA Students Shine in FFA Crop Management Challenge
The FFA Crop Management Challenge is an annual competiton held on the AgroExpo
grounds in St Johns for FFA students to test their agronomy skills. Contestants compete with other chapters to make sound agronomic and environmental decisions in a demonstration plot of corn or soybeans. The students make all decisions from selecting the tillage practice to what inputs they use to help crop fertility.
The competition helps FFA students get hands-on experience and make management decisions. They gain knowledge on the process growers make when deciding which products to use on their crops, and they learn how to manage insects and diseases while maintaining acceptable profit margins.
“The competition gives students the opportunity to research, hypothesize, make the recommendations, and then find out what those recommendations yield in a world where the climate the determines a majority of the outcome,” said Troy Bancro?, AgroLiquid Chairman of the Board.
Contestants in the challenge are judged on yield, economics, and presentation responses to the judges’ questions.
“At the end of this competition, the students explain the ‘whys’ to the decisions they made,” said Marnie Swartzendruber, AgroExpo Show Coordinator. “This shows the depth of their understanding, which is what we’re hoping they take away from this competition.”
Ten FFA Chapters from Michigan participated in this year’s contest, which was the fifth annual.
The FFA teams Ovid-Elsie presented in corn.
FFA and the competition covers more than just growing crops and making decisions because it’s also a founda?on for learning in real-life agricultural situations.
“FFA definitely has the agricultural and agriscience portion, but it also has the leadership component that trains students to make the best decisions possible and encourage others to come alongside them in what they believe,” said Bancroft. “AgroExpo and AgroLiquid do their best to encourage students to
participate in hands-on experiences, as we believe in the future of ag – and like the creed of the FFA, we support that not only in words, but in deeds.”
For more information, visit theagroexpo.com/ffa.
Remember when? – MMDHD awards employees in 2014
Twenty-Five Years of Service
Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Longevity Award to Holly Stevens, Human Resources Specialist, in recognition of her 25 years of service.
Twenty Years of Service
Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Longevity Award to Dawn Wadell, Finance Specialist, in recognition of her 20 years of service.
Fifteen Years of Service
In recognition of their 15 years of service, Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Longevity Awards to Lonnie Smith, Environmental Health Supervisor; Kim Monahan, Public Health Representative II; Bob Gouin, Environmental Health Director; Bryan Fowler, Environmental Health Specialist II; and Andrew Discher, Environmental Health Specialist I.
Ten Years of Service
Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Longevity Awards to Becky Stoddard, Public Health Nurse II and Angie Felton, Public Health II, in recognition of their 10 years of service.
Five Years of Service
Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Longevity Award to Gayle Hood, Registered Dietician, in recognition of her 5 years of service.
Environmental Health Division
Charity Little, Environmental Health Specialist II, receives her Outstanding Performance Award from Bob Gouin, Environmental Health Director.
Bob Gouin, Environmental Health Director presents Outstanding Performance Award to Lonnie Smith, Environmental Health Supervisor.
Administration
Marcus Cheatham, Health Officer, presents Outstanding Performance Award to Bob Gouin, Environmental Health Director.
Community Health and Education Division
Jennifer Stratton, Community Health and Education Supervisor, presents Outstanding Performance Award to Jamie Sorgenfrei, Public Health Representative II.
Wendy Currie, Community Health and Education Supervisor, presents Outstanding Performance Award to Lisa Mikesell, Public Health Nurse II.
Administrative Services Division
Melissa Bowerman, Administrative Services Division Director, presents Outstanding Performance Award to Mario Lucchesi, MIS Coordinator.
Letters – Santa Paws is coming to town
Our tails are wagging at Giving Paws for all of the support we have had this year! We are so grateful for all who make our mission of service possible.
We look forward to PAWtastic things in 2024, continuing to spread dog joy and continue great things with your support.
Thank you for supporting our mission of service.
Your financial gift keeps our Paw on the Ground spreading dog joy in our community. Donate to Giving Paws
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – 10 of the Healthiest Cat Breeds
Any cat can experience health challenges, but choosing a breed celebrated for robust health may help reduce the risk of certain genetic conditions that some cats are known for—and give you peace of mind. Here’s what to know about some of the healthiest cat breeds and how to care for them.
Finding Healthy Cat Breeds
Choosing a healthy cat begins with a reputable breeder. Good breeders will willingly share information about the health conditions associated with the breed they specialize in, and they prioritize genetic diversity in their breeding pairs. This contributes to the overall health of their kittens.
How To Keep Your Cat Healthy
Ensuring your cat lives a long and healthy life means keeping up with proper care at home. This includes providing your cat with:
Proper nutrition: Feed your cat high-quality cat food and a balanced diet to provide all essential nutrients, maintain your cat’s overall health, and prevent various health issues. Always consult your veterinarian for advice on the best diet for your cat.
Regular vet checkups: Annual checkups with the vet are essential to discover and treat health issues early. These checkups may include physical examinations, vaccinations, dental care, behavioral health screens, and preventive measures against common cat health problems.
Exercise and play: Provide a variety of toys and daily playtime to keep your cat active and engaged. Regular physical activity helps prevent obesity, improves your cat’s mood, and enhances your cat’s overall well-being.
Mental enrichment: Provide interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and play sessions that challenge your cat’s mind. This mental enrichment can prevent boredom and stress, leading to a happier and healthier cat.
Grooming: Brush your cat’s fur regularly to prevent matting and hairballs. Long-haired breeds, in particular, need extra grooming care. Grooming not only keeps your cat’s coat in good condition but also provides an opportunity to spend time with your cat.
Healthy Cat Breeds
1. Balinese
Balinese cats are social, intelligent, and active companions with an average lifespan well above 15 years, potentially up to 18–22 years of age. They are known for their stunning soft coat, large ears, blue eyes, and color-pointed pattern.
While they are generally healthy, they can be prone to genetic heart and liver diseases. Balinese cats may also develop progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to diminished vision or blindness. Sometimes, their blue eyes may look cross-eyed, a condition called strabismus.
2. Bombay
Bombay cats are extroverted and affectionate, and they enjoy being part of the family. They have a sleek, black coat that makes them look like a mini panther.
These cats can live up to 20 years, but be careful to select a reputable breeder, as some Bombays may develop sinus problems if they have a less elongated face. They are generally healthy, but carefully monitoring their diet and weight is crucial because Bombays love to eat and are prone to getting chonky. These agile climbers should have access to multilevel cat trees.
3. British Shorthair
British Shorthairs are calm, quiet, and easygoing cats with a life expectancy of 14–20 years. They make excellent family pets and have dense fur that needs regular grooming to prevent matting. Be mindful of weight gain, as they can be prone to obesity. Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine is essential to keep them in top shape.
Some British Shorthair cats are at increased risk of developing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a thickening of the muscular walls of the heart), polycystic kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism, so regular veterinary checkups and blood work are necessary.
4. Havana Brown
Havana Brown cats are friendly, intelligent, and known for their sleek and elegant physical appearance. These cats have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Their physical health is robust, and they can live up to 15 years.
Like many other cats, Havana Browns are at risk of weight gain and obesity, so controlling their diet and weight is important. They are active and playful cats that love attention from family members. Regular playtime and social interactions are essential to ensure their well-being.
5. LaPerm
LaPerm cats are affectionate and loyal, with most of them enjoying physical contact. They have a life expectancy of 10–15 years.
Their distinctive feature is their curly fur, which may need extra care with at least weekly brushing to prevent matting and skin issues. Being laid-back and easygoing, LaPerm cats can adapt to many environments—but mental stimulation through play, interactive toys, and training is essential for their happiness.
6. Nebelung
The Nebelung is a rare cat breed noted for their striking, medium-long, soft blue coat. They are mild-mannered, easygoing, and loyal cats who have a life expectancy of over 16 years. Nebelungs thrive on routine and prefer a mellow environment, so they are a good fit for adults and senior human companions.
Regular vet checkups are important to address health concerns early, as their mellow nature might mask signs of illness well. While they are generally healthy, keep an eye out for heart and kidney diseases.
7. Ragdoll
Ragdolls are calm, gentle, and affectionate cats that form strong bonds with their human companions. Their fluffy, luxurious fur requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and they can live about 15–17 years.
Keeping the playful and curious Ragdoll cat physically and mentally stimulated through playtime and companionship is essential for their well-being. Regular vet checkups are crucial for a Ragdoll’s health, as they might be prone to certain genetic issues including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle), environmental and food allergies, and bladder stones.
8. Russian Blue
Russian Blue cats are known for their quiet and reserved nature and have a life expectancy of 15–20 years. They thrive in a peaceful environment and are easy to care for due to their short coat.
These cats are generally healthy, but they may be sensitive to stress and prefer a calm environment. Russian Blues have a lower chance of developing common genetic disorders, but they may be at a slightly higher risk of developing bladder stones than other breeds.
9. Siamese
Siamese cats are intelligent, playful, and curious; they are not known for being laid-back. While they typically live about 15 years, they’ve been known to live well into their 20s. Siamese are social and vocal, loving the spotlight. Like Balinese cats, Siamese cats may appear cross-eyed.
Regular vet checkups are essential to maintain their overall well-being and to address health concerns, such as dental issues, asthma, and retinal degeneration that can progress to blindness. Siamese cats are also prone to developing pica (an abnormal desire to ingest non-food items) and wool-sucking, both of which could result in dangerous intestinal obstruction.
10. Siberian
Siberian cats are friendly and playful, making them great family pets with a life expectancy of 10–18 years. They have a semi-long coat that, despite consisting of three types of fur, is surprisingly low-maintenance. But a little extra grooming effort is required during the spring and fall shedding seasons.
Because of their adventurous nature and love of climbing, Siberian cats may be more injury-prone than other breeds, so take care to secure shelves and block access to potentially dangerous heights.