The following story appeared in the St. Johns Independent in November, 2003 – the 20th Anniversary of Relief After Violent Encounter (RAVE). The SJ Indy is honored to re-publish the story now, in honor of Janet Holden – the “founding mother” of RAVE. Janet passed away on February 1, 2019. She helped countless individuals during her long tenure with RAVE, intervening effectively on behalf of the victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Thank you, Janet – you are missed by many, many friends.
The matriarch of RAVE, Janet Holden, receives special recognition during 20th Anniversary celebration of the non-profit service agency
by Rhonda Dedyne
There were plenty of well-known faces at the 20th Anniversary Celebration for Relief After Violent Encounter – a tribute of sorts to the thousands of “nameless” individuals in Clinton and Shiawassee counties whose lives have been touched in a positive way by their association with the organization that provides assistance and comfort to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
“It was just a wonderful turnout, especially on such a cold and rainy evening,” RAVE Executive Director Jody Smith said of the Novvember 3 event that was held at Clinton County RESA. “We truly appreciate the fact that so many people took the time to celebrate with us, and it was particularly gratifying to have representatives attend from all the law enforcement agencies in our service area – they are very supportive of RAVE programs.”
A highlight of the evening was a tribute presentation to the “founding mother” of RAVE, Janet Holden. Her work over the years in creating an awareness about the horror of domestic violence and abuse, and her efforts to aid its victims was recognized by three distinguished presenters: State Sen. Valde Garcia, State Rep. Scott Hummel and State Rep. Larry Julian. Each elected official delivered tribute commendations to Holden.
RAVE board members also honored the unselfishness spirit of RAVE’s leading lady and her countless hours of service over RAVE’s 20-year history with a gift of a Waterford crystal clock.
“Janet has devoted so much time to RAVE – this is token of all those hours,” Smith said.
The non-profit organization was itself the beneficiary of a gift at the anniversary celebration. Todd Maertz of GKN Sinter Metals in Owosso presented a check for $2,000 to RAVE Board President Tami Baumann, given on behalf of the GKN Foundation.
“For the second consecutive year, GKN Sinter Metals-Owosso, is pleased to support RAVE in honor of its 20th anniversary and for the support RAVE provides to women and children who find themselves victims of abusive relationships,” Maertz said. “The employees of GKN are proud to present this check, continuing the company’s commitment to the much needed work of this agency.”
RAVE board members noted their appreciation for the contribution, and also cited the financial support of Firstbank-St. Johns and Baker College of Owosso who helped sponsor the anniversary celebration.
[Editor’s Note: RAVE is now SafeCenter with offices in St. Johns and Owosso. For detailed information on SafeCenter call 989-723-9716, email safecenter@thesafecenter.org or visit http://www.thesafecenter.org/default.asp
To reach the 24-hour Toll Free Crisis Help Line call 877-952-7283.]
NorthStar Laboratory expansion will benefit Michigan’s dairy industry
Growing demand for collaboration within the state’s dairy industry has led to a decision to expand the NorthStar Cooperative Laboratory in Grand Ledge, Michigan. The first phase of growth includes doubling the space of the existing facility to accommodate increases in commercial diagnostic services, and research and development.
Fueled by collaborations with industry and academia, research interests now span the globe and will keep NorthStar at the forefront of advancing agricultural technologies.
NorthStar relocated to the current facility in 2015 creating a state-of-the-art laboratory for diagnostic services. Advanced technologies, such as mid-infrared spectroscopy, flow cytometry, ELISA, and PCR are used to analyze various sample types from the livestock industry for BVD, Johne’s, leukosis, mastitis, MUN, neospora, progesterone, pregnancy, fat, protein, SCC and more.
“Even in an overall depressed dairy economy there are significant positive developments occurring in this state, and we are going to be a part of that,” said Dr. Todd Byrem, Director, Research and Development for NorthStar Cooperative. “Michigan’s dairy industry is a vital part of the state’s economy, and we are committed to investing talent and resources to continue to serve the men and women on farms, and in this industry as best possible.”
A 75-year-old cooperative, NorthStar broadened its offerings in 1999 to include laboratory services to the dairy industry. Initially providing Dairy Herd Information (DHI) milk analysis; NorthStar quickly added diagnostics for ruminants. Today NorthStar’s two laboratories in Grand Ledge and Kaukauna, Wisconsin process nearly 6 million samples to provide convenient and customer-oriented diagnostics to the livestock industry.
“Our continual investment in research and development to improve farm processes allows NorthStar to develop unique diagnostic tests for the livestock industries that are convenient, customized and labor efficient,” said Byrem. “We are extremely proud of our involvement in this area as it helps to ensure healthy, wholesome end products are available to consumers.”
NorthStar’s original investment in research developed a series of novel diagnostics tests that can be applied to milk samples. Traditionally, tests for Johne’s, BVD, BLV, neospora, parentage, pregnancy, etc., required invasive sampling procedures such as venipuncture, biopsies and palpation. Today, these tests are being conducted autonomously through milk samples, without any disturbance to animals or operations.
With the milk diagnostic platform successfully established, NorthStar is ramping up research and development with the addition of more space and highly skilled research scientists. Fueled by collaborations with industry and academia, research interests now span the globe and will keep NorthStar at the forefront of advancing agricultural technologies.
NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. is a stock based cooperative, owned by dairy and beef producers in Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. Originally formed as an artificial insemination cooperative, NorthStar has grown into a leader in developing and delivering integrated products and services that assist owners and the industry with herd performance. Diagnostic services, animal health products, DHI services, genetic consulting and reproduction services are among the services provided. Headquartered in Lansing, Michigan, NorthStar works with producers, veterinarians and industry members across the United States.
A Look Back – Wins “His and Hers” Cars
by Barry Clark Bauer
Mrs. Jennifer Jorae, center, of Marshall Road in St. Johns, accepts the keys to a 1972 Gremlin and a 1972 Sportabout from Bob Demko of Bob Baker American Motor Sales, in Lansing.
Mrs. Jorae won the pair of “his and her” cars by entering a contest at Dean’s Hardware sponsored by the National Hardware Association in conjunction with American Motors Corp.
Mrs. Jorae deposited the winning ticket at Alan R. Dean Hardware in St. Johns and was one of four grand prize winners in the “Golden Value Days” sweepstakes contest. Her ticket was drawn from over one million Entries submitted nationwide. Looking on are from left to right: Thomas Aitkin, manager-treasurer of the Michigan Retail Hardware Association; Mrs. Jorae’s husband, James; and Alan R. Dean, owner of Dean’s Hardware.
Letters – Reader recognizes one of last week’s Morning Musicale members
One reader wrote: “The unidentified woman in last weeks photo was possibly Marketa (Katie) Harper.”
Then Barry was able to give us a complete update:
This photo titled, “Christmas Coffee, Morning Musicale,” was taken in 1971.
Officers of the St. Johns Morning Musicale Club gathered at the tea table following the annual Christmas program. From left are Mrs. Harold Lundy, past president; Mrs. Raymond Torpey, treasurer; Mrs. Orientis Fish, recording secretary; and Mrs. Alice Stork, ensemble director. Seated is Mrs. Jean Woodbury of Woodbury Flower shop in St. Johns, vice-president.
Maralyn’s Pet Corner – How to Find the Right Dog Bed for Your Pup’s Needs
courtesy of Victoria Schade
Every dog needs a space to call his own, and for most dogs, that means a cozy dog bed. But picking the best dog bed is more than just checking the price and finding a cute pattern. The average dog can sleep 12-14 hours per day, so it’s important to select a bed that’s aligned with your dog’s sleep preferences.
The following tips will help you find a doggy bed for your furry best friend that will guarantee sweet dreams.
Canine Sleeping Styles
All dogs have their own preferred sleeping position, so it is important to make sure you find a dog bed that accommodates your dog’s preferences.
Your first consideration is your dog’s size, although you might be surprised to discover that you don’t necessarily have to buy a super-large dog bed for bigger breeds of dogs. Some dogs like to sleep tucked into a tiny ball, while others stretch out until they’re fully extended. So, the size of the dog doesn’t always correlate to the sleep style.
That might mean that your Chihuahua that’s fond of dog-spreading across the bed needs a bed that’s two sizes longer than his body, and your snug-as-a-bug German Shepherd will fit in a dog bed that’s smaller than you might expect.
Most dogs prefer dog beds that have something to lean against or rest their head on while they sleep. A bolstered dog bed like the Helix durable bolster bed is a great option that blends canine comfort with durability. Similarly, the FurHaven curly fur plush donut bed allows dogs to nestle in and feel protected while they rest.
If your dog prefers to sleep burrowed under the blankets, opt for a dog bed with a cozy blanket top, like the Pet Parade pet cave deluxe. This type of covered dog bed mimics a den environment that can help dogs feel safe.
Special Considerations for Senior and Handicapped Dogs
Older dogs in particular need a soft space to rest that takes their physical capabilities into account. An orthopedic dog bed like the FurHaven quilted orthopedic sofa bed cradles older joints with eggcrate foam for comfortable napping.
Senior dogs can also be more susceptible to cold drafts, so an electric heated dog bed that gently warms, like the K&H Pet Products deluxe lectro-soft heated pet bed, can help to cut the cold. Please note that any dog using a heated bed should have the option to move off it, so don’t use it in a crate if the dog is closed inside. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended usage—you do not want to create a hazard for you pet by leaving the device on for extended periods of time.
Dogs with mobility issues might benefit from an elevated dog bed that’s easier to get in and out of. Some senior or handicapped dogs have difficulty standing up after sleeping, and a platform-style bed—like the Frisco steel frame elevated pet bed— might make the bed more accessible.
The Best Bedding for Dogs and Home Decorating
A dog bed is a piece of furniture that you’re adding to your home, particularly if you’re investing in a large dog bed that can’t be hidden in a corner. But even the most fashion-forward pet parents can find a large or small dog bed that suits their home decor. P.L.A.Y. Lifestyle and You offers dog beds that have decorative prints and fabrics that mix canine comfort and good taste.
Keep in mind that even though some bed colors might coordinate perfectly with your color scheme, they might not be the best bet from a housekeeping perspective. Black dog beds will show every dust particle and white hair, and light-colored beds will catch and highlight every muddy paw print.
Fabric Care and Your Investment
It’s tempting to buy bargain-basement dog beds, but the low price might mean they’re impossible to clean and prone to rips. The best dog beds are made of sturdy materials like machine-washable microfiber and can be unzipped and taken apart for easy cleaning.
Remember to check the filler before you invest in a bed. Loose foam is difficult to re-stuff after cleaning, so look for a dog bed with self-contained “pillows” or solid foam pads inside the cover.
A well-made dog bed can withstand years of use (which includes dirty paws, the occasional sharp nail, teeth and lots of shedding) and the cleaning that goes along with it. Finding a chic dog bed that your dog also loves will help him get a good night’s sleep without jeopardizing your sense of style.