April 2018
Robotics Team Triumphs!
More Robotics Coverage on page 2. (Photo Courtesy of Sam Vowell)
Our Website Is Now Up At www. corunnaconnection.com The Corunna Connection is a direct mail monthly paper sent to all of Corunna, Vernon and parts of Lennon (in Shiawassee County). Our goal with the Corunna Connection is to create a platform for Corunna residents and students to connect. We do not have staff writers and are counting on YOU to provide us with stories & photos of newsworthy people and events. Some space limitations may apply and we reserve the right to limit or reject any insertions into this paper. Corunna is where our kids go to school. This is the town we love and our hope is that as you read each edition of The Corunna Connection, your love and appreciation for what a great community we have will continue to grow. Sam Vowell, editor: corunnaeditor@gmail.com; Stacey Henry, sales mgr.: cconnectionsales@gmail.com; and Melissa Shepard, design/production: corunnaconnection@gmail.com.
The Corunna Connection paper is available at CK’s Quick n’ Save, Corunna Public Schools Administration Building, Corunna City Hall, The Town Tub, Community District Library Corunna and Kroger.
Make sure you “like” us on Facebook and you can see the entire Corunna Connection paper on Facebook every month!
robotics
Robotics Team Triumphs! On Thursday April 5th the Corunna Robotics Team FridgeBot traveled to Sault Ste Marie to the Lake Superior State University district competition. It was a 5 hour drive for the FridgeBots, full of singing, strategizing and lots of excitement. The team then competed through qualifying matches all day Friday, till noon on Saturday. Thanks to outstanding performance from new driver, Noah Dutcher, the team ended as the second seeded alliance captain! The FridgeBots then asked Team 4392, The Deceivers, from Brimley, Michigan and Team 5878, The Great Lakers, from Mackinac Island, Michigan to join together and battle through the final matches. This awesome alliance made it all the way, fighting hard through quarter finals, semi finals, and finals, taking the blue banner home at the end of the day. This win, plus the ranking points, earned at the Kettering Week 2
(Courtesy Photos)
event made the team 53rd ranked in the state and has guaranteed them a spot at the FIRST Robotics State Competition April 12th-15th at Saginaw Valley State University! This wasn’t the only win made by team FridgeBot: Marketing section leader Rebecca Walton won the Dean’s List Award at LSSU for being an outstanding role model in FIRST. She will now be interviewed at the Michigan State Championships, competing against other district Dean’s List winners. Team FridgeBot asked Madison Pellman from Byron Robotics to join them in Sault Ste Marie. With her help the team was able to win third place in the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) judges safety award. This is a first for Team FridgeBot and they couldn’t have done it without her. The team invites you to come out to SVSU or watch along at home at frc-events.firstinspires.org/watch.
whole grains at cps Corunna Public Schools celebrated National Nutrition Month in March with free samples of whole grains! Chef visitors came to visit Corunna High School, Middle School, Elsa Meyer and Nellie Reed Elementaries on March 14th. Students were invited to sample overnight oats, a cold oatmeal that is made in the fridge with low-fat yogurt and milk. (Courtesy Photo) With no surprise, banana chocolate chip was the favorite flavor district wide! Students enjoyed the new food so much, they can find it featured for breakfast in the month of April. The program was the brainchild of Jillian Wensel, Director of Dining Services for Corunna Public Schools. To check out the new menus and find out more information about Corunna’s healthy foods, go to counna.nutrislice.com . (Courtesy Photo)
community news Corunna Public Schools Employee and Teacher of the Year
Amy Murphy and her family
Paul Brieger
By Sam Vowell On March 19th, the Corunna Public Schools honored Frank Gregory as its Employee of the Year and Amy Murphy as its Teacher of the Year. Gregory works with “at-risk students” at the Corunna High School. He has worked in education for over forty years, often teaching in the technical or vocational fields. Gregory has been at Corunna High since 2005 and has made a huge impact in getting students who had fallen behind, headed in the right direction academically. His wife of forty-seven years, Patricia Gregory passed away in December. He has three adult children and four grand-children. Murphy is a “jack-of-all-trades” for Corunna High School. Her primary responsibility is as a guidance counselor, but she also teaches a class and jumps into whatever role is needed at the time. She is a busy woman outside of the school too and is even an ordained minister. Murphy is herself a graduate of Corunna High School (Class of ’98) and happy to be connecting with students the way her teachers (like Jan Oien) connected with her in the past. Murphy
M-21 Towing & Recovery Moves To A New Location
By Melissa Shepard M-21 Towing & Recovery moved to their current location in November. They are now located at 2611 E. M-21, next to Timlick’s Auto & Truck Repair, in front of Meijer in Corunna. Owner Brandon Vejcik started the business two years ago, operating out of his house in Owosso until he moved to the current location. He currently has 2 flat-bed trucks and 1 medium duty truck, with three employees. They offer discounts for senior citizens, military personnel, police and EMT’s, along with 24-hour towing. Brandon is from Owosso and has 15-years’ experience in the towing business, working for other companies. He is engaged to an Owosso police officer, and she has a 9-year old.
Frank and Amy
Frank Gregory and his family
and husband Tony have three young children; Charlie, Evie and Audrey. Corunna High School Operations Principal Paul Brieger had this to say about Gregory and Murphy, “It has been a pleasure to work with both Frank and Amy this school year. Frank is currently our Directed Studies teacher and has helped so many students makeup credits so they are able to graduate high school. Amy is an extremely compassionate teacher and counselor, she works tirelessly to help our students at the high school. She has a knack of building relationships with students so they feel comfortable coming to her if they need help.” When asking CHS students, teachers and faculty Frank Gregory and Amy Murphy, the common theme that keeps being said is, “They help the students feel important!” That sense of belonging they bring to students is really a special gift that Frank and Amy have a knack for. We’re fortunate to have them working with our youth in Corunna.
Three Cavaliers Named All-Conference The talented Corunna basketball trio of Logan LePage (1st Team), Sage Walker (2nd Team) and Mitchell Skym (Honorable Mention) were recently named G.A.C. All-Conference. LePage led the Cavaliers with 11.8 ppg and 3 apg while also nabbing 5.5 rpg. Skym was the Cavaliers top perimeter threat with 46 3-pointers as part of his 10.1 ppg. Last, but not least was the big man in the middle for Corunna, Sage Walker who had 10.1 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 2.4 blocks per game (while forcing many other opponents to take bad shots for fear of having them rejected). All three are juniors who will be returning next year in what’s anticipated to be an outstanding Cavalier squad for Coach Buscemi next season. Congratulations to Logan, Sage, Mitchell and the entire Cavalier team on a great season! (Courtesy Photo)
2018 Varsity Girls Softball Preview
Experienced Cavaliers Ready to Make Some Noise!
(Photos courtesy of Tracy Hyde) By Sam Vowell there are others on the team with the potential to join them in playing The 2018 Corunna varsity girls’ softball team will be a mix of experibeyond high school in the future. ence with youth. The team will be led by their six seniors consisting The team got off to a great start on March 26th, taking both games (7-3 & 13-8) of a doubleheader on the road against Swartz Creek. of Mikayla Arnett, Morgan Gilbert, Josie Hundley, Tori Hyde (our Starting pitchers Meg Mosier and Mikayla Arnett kept the Swartz Corunna Connection Athlete of the Month), Meg Moser, and Sierra Pugh. The other returning players to The Lady Cavs squad are HanCreek hitters off balance, then Josie Hundley came in to close both nah Hollister (10th grade) and Danielle French (10th grade) that saw games for The Cavaliers. Sierra Pugh powered two home runs over the significant playing time through last season. The team will be looking fence and drove in 5 runs during the first game. Other leading hitters for the Cavaliers against Swartz Creek were Tori Hyde, Meg Mosier, to compete with every opponent this season to provide their new additions ample playing time. New members to The Lady Cavs squad are Hannah Hollister and Danielle French. Ricki Cantu (10th grade), Olivia Hatfield (11th grade), Caitlyn Johnson If you’d like to see The Corunna varsity girls’ softball team in action, (10th grade), Morgan Renwick (11th grade), Bridget Ryon (9th grade), check out their schedule that we have listed in the center spread of this Kennedy Shepard (11th grade) and Rhiannon Shook (11th grade) who month’s Corunna Connection. Other than tournaments, all of their complete the 15-player roster for Coach Shuster’s team. The Cavaliers games are doubleheaders that begin at 4pm. Coach Shuster had this to say, “We look forward to everyone coming out and supporting your already have three players (Tori Hyde – Mott, Meg Mosier – Albion Lady Cavs this season!” & Josie Hundley - Adrian) who have signed to play college ball and
cms color run CORUNNA TO HOST 3rd ANNUAL HEALTH-BASED FUND-RAISING EFFORT Students to get fit, then douse themselves in color!
The students of Corunna Middle School will walk, jog, and run their way toward a healthier life while raising funds for their school. The school is holding a fundraiser called My School Color Run. The My School Color Run program aims to go beyond traditional fund raising. Rather than sell goods, this program aims to engage the entire student body in a fitness initiative that aims to instill a life-long healthy way of living. “We’re extremely excited about hosting the 3rd annual My School Color Run Program”, says Katy Piotrowski. “We’re looking forward to involving our entire student body, faculty and community in a fun and healthy program. We want to engage the entire community and encourage local businesses and individual community members to get involved.”
(Courtesy Photos)
The color run is a 5K course, with an optional 1-mile course, and will be held on Friday, April 27th, 2018 at the Corunna Middle School from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. (registration will begin at 5:30 p.m.) and will be open to the public. This is an untimed fun run. Racers will pass through several color stations throughout the course and end with a color toss. Interested participants can register for the run by visiting www.events.myschoolcolorrun.com (and scrolling down until you find the event), by visiting the direct link at https://events.myschoolcolorrun.com/event/2018-Corunna-Middle-School-Corunna-MI or by completing a paper registration form prior to the event (available at the Corunna Middle School or at the Middle School homepage via corunna.k12.mi.us). Anyone interested in more information can contact Katy Piotrowski at the Corunna Middle School.
march is reading month
On March 22nd, several members of Corunna’s Varsity Boys Track Team (Coached by Jason Beldyga) visited Louise Peacock Elementary School. They were there as part of the March is Reading Month program and read & interacted with some young students. Great job Cavs! (Photos courtesy of Jason Beldyga)
On March 29th, several members of the Corunna Girls Cross Country Team (Coached by Jason Beldyga) visited Louise Peacock Elementary School. The girls read to & interacted with some young students as part of the March is Reading Month program. This was one of many visits the team made to Louise Peacock in March. Great job Lady Cavs!
Timlick’s Auto & Truck Repair LLC
ALL WORK GUARANTEED
• Suspension Work • Tire Balancing/Rotation • Gas or Diesel Engines • AC Service and Repair • Transmission Service & Repair
Hours: Mon-Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. 11am-3pm State Rd.
• Computer Diagnostics • Brakes & Tune-Ups • Electrical • Driveability • MDOT Inspections
Meijer
M-21
N Timlick’s
SERVING SHIAWASSEE COUNTY FOR NEARLY 10 YEARS! “WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR CAR AS IF IT’S OUR FAMILY BEHIND THE WHEEL” 2611 E. M-21 • Corunna, Michigan 48817 • (989) 743-9070 Joe & Diane Timlick - Owner/Operators • Master Mechanic Joe Timlick - Over 30 Years Experience
community news Images Salon & Spa Offers New Service and Something For Kids
Book and Bake Sale The Friends of the Library Corunna/Caledonia Branch have a huge “Used Book Rollback Sale & Bake Sale” planned for May 10th from 10am to 8pm; May 11th 10am to 5pm and May 12th 10am to 2pm. Shoppers may fill a bag with hardcover books from the hallway or the backroom for $3 or by donation. Fill a bag with cookbooks for 50¢! Proceeds from the sale will go towards new carpeting for the library. The sale will take place at the Corunna Branch of the Community District Library located at 210 East Corunna Avenue. Phone 989-743-4800 for more information.
By Melissa Shepard Images Salon & Spa owners Cristina Hewitt and Amparo Grasso have been in the salon business for six years, four of those at their Downtown Corunna location. They recently remodeled their salon, taking out the tanning portion of the business and adding a new room for their new service, Microblading. Also brand new are kiddie cars for children when they get their hair cut. These cars will keep the children focused on something other than a haircut. Cristina Hewitt is certified in Microblading, which is a permanent makeup procedure where pigment is applied with a disposable needle to the epidermis, rather than the dermis. She also is certified with a Cosmetology License, in Body Art and does Full Body Waxing. Services available include eye liner (bottom), eye liner (top), eye brows and lip liner. Partner Amparo Grasso provides the rest of the services available at the salon – hair and nails. Images Salon & Spa is open Tuesday through Friday 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also available by appointment.
Willie Nelson
Image Salon
Tribute Artist
& Spa
Saturday, April 21 - 8:30 p.m. $10 per person Purchase your tickets at the bar!
50/50
Euchre Tournament Sunday, April 22
Cash Bar
Proceeds benefit Corunna United Methodist Church Food Bank
Registration at 12 p.m., Play at 1 p.m. Play 8 games - $10 per person - payout 2 places For early registration call Emma 989-277-5944 or Jan 989-277-4386 Food provided - Donations accepted
Full Service Salon & Microblading
Now Offering
g n i d a l b o r c i m Microblading of eye brows • eye liner (bottom) • eye liner (top) • Eye Brows • Lip Liner
Mother’s Day Special Prices 129 N. Shiawassee St., Corunna 989-743-5775
233 N. Shiawassee St., Corunna, MI 48817 (Across from Courthouse)
(989) 413-7715
varsity girls soccer preview
(Photos courtesy of Jeff Tuller) By Amy Golombisky Since 1998, Corunna High School has been building their competitive soccer team. The programs beginning two seasons were coached by Peggy Golab and limited to junior varsity competition only. But, we are forever grateful for these initial sacrifices, because, my, how they’ve grown. Currently our girls’ varsity soccer team boasts a roster of 17, 14 of which are returning athletes. JV is comprised of 12 young ladies headed for greatness. Nine of last year’s starting varsity lineup have rallied together to form an impressive core of driven female proficiency. The 2018 season is packed with 16 games and a home opener scheduled for April 10th for both varsity and JV. This season holds the promise of heightened fervor. Having such a notable foundation of experienced athletes, the team is looking forward to a cohesive synergy. Many of the athletes have played together at both the varsity and JV level for more than 3 years. Varsity coach Brandon Wagner returns this season for his third consecutive year, as does JV coach Blake Golab. Their combined coaching experience of more than 18 years is the guidance the team feeds off of, enabling the girls to progress in skill level, supporting one another with sincere constructive criticism and a deepened knowledge of each teammate’s strengths and weaknesses. The cohesive mindset of the two teams is amplified
by their willingness to learn from one another. This positive attitude has made apparent the importance of utilizing and developing skill at the varsity level as opposed to learning it. Shared leadership and dedication is key to the continued evolution of talent. Returning junior, Illa Tuller, has played an important role cultivating the teams aspirations, she has earned the past two seasons title of MVP as well as 1st team All-Conference and All-District last year. Her teammate, Peyton Rhyne, also a junior, is the team’s leading goal scorer. These young ladies set the pace for an intense year of enriched capability, both individually and by the team as a whole. Bound to inspire the JV team, and all of us, to play with heart and remain passionate about the game. Joining the team this season are two exchange students, Mathea Gundersby, from Norway, and Alex Ostman, from Sweden. Both have previous playing experience in their home countries and are a welcomed addition to the varsity team. The girls are looking forward to a busy and action-packed season and will continue the traditional team building activities of team dinners, pool parties, and team outings to places like McCurdy Park when they have the opportunity to relax. But as for now they are diligently mastering the important task of harmony on the soccer field. And showing us all how to BE GOLD!
2018 Varsity Boys Baseball Preview
(Photos courtesy of Heather Norton) By Sam Vowell Even though Corunna had a strong 2016 season, with only a handful of experienced players returning, many people outside of Corunna may have overlooked the team going into the 2017 season. After winning district and regional championships, no one will be overlooking Coach Osika’s squad this season. The Cavaliers return seven starters who helped the team make it to the MHSAA Class B quarter-finals last season. Senior Zach Sawyer, a Cornerstone University commit batted .393 last season and led the team with 42 runs & 20 stolen bases while showing off outstanding glove work at second base. Zach is joined in the lineup by senior Austin Schemenauer who led the team with a .453 batting average, 15 extra base hits and 35 RBI’s. “Schem” is a Mott Community College commit and is expected to continue to lead the Cavs with his powerful left-handed swing. Ethan Hollister (Jr. - .304 avg), Peyton Norton (So. - .264 avg), Sam Thompson (Sr. - .256 avg), Johnny Pavka (Sr.) and Lucas Barkman (Sr.) are also returning starters for the Cavaliers lineup. 12 of the 14 players on this year’s roster were dressed for post
season play last year. Depth will surely be a strength for Corunna this year as Kail Stratton (Jr.), Blake Galesk (So.), Justin Chapman (Jr.), Kevin Jackson (Jr.), Tucker Woodruff (So.), Colt Kondel (So.) and Isaac Gilna (Jr.) are all expected to make an impact for the team. The emergence of two underclassman, Ethan Hollister and Peyton Norton played a big part in the success of the team last season. Both hit and fielded well (at multiple positions), but it was their pitching that really set them apart. Hollister became the staff workhorse by throwing 53.1 innings with a team leading 1.96 ERA. As a freshman, Norton had one of the team highlights, pitching a no-hitter against Williamston. The Cavalier pitching staff returns two more strong/experienced arms in Lucas Barkman (43.1 innings pitched with a 3.71 ERA) and Sam Thompson (40.1 innings pitched with a 4.33 ERA). There’s no doubt pitching will again play a key role for the success of the Corunna baseball team in 2018. Continued on next page
2600 E. M-21 Corunna, MI 48817 989-472-4755
GOOD CREDIT BAD CREDIT
NO CREDIT BANKRUPTCY
We Financeeveryone.com
CAR OF THE MONTH
UPCOMING EVENTS! 4/17 – TAX RELIEF PARTY! - $1 DOMESTIC BOTTLES & $5 RIVAL BURGER/CHICKEN SANDWICH 5/1 – IT’S THE FIRST OF THE MONTH - $1 DOMESTIC BOTTLES & $5 RIVAL BURGER/CHICKEN SANDWICH 5/3 – BIKE NIGHT BEGINS – EVERY THURSDAY, (WEATHER PERMITTING)
5/5 – CINCO DE MAYO - $1 TACOS $ 3 IMPORT CERVESAS – CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT 9PM 2015 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4WD 150,000 Miles
2500 E. M-21, Corunna • 989-720-3030
Corunna VFW Patriotic Contest
Cassie Stone
Tatum LePino
Rebekah Steinacker
Three Corunna students recently claimed the top three spots in acker. All three talented students have Mrs. Shannon Dasen as their the Corunna VFW Patriotic Contest. In First Place was Cassie Stone, teacher. Great job ladies! Second Place was Tatum LePino and Third Place was Rebekah Stein(Courtesy Photos) 2018 Varsity Boys Baseball Preview Continued from previous page When asked about the 2018 Cavaliers, Coach Osika had this to say, “The expectation that I get from the team is their goal is to make it one step further than last year’s team by playing in the final four at MSU! Hopefully, this year’s team does not rest on the accolades of the 2017 team. The 2018 Cavaliers still have to put in the hard work and dedication throughout the season to make it back to the quarterfinals and reach MSU.” 327 N. Shiawassee Corunna 989-743-5653 Get Your Hunting License Here!
Strong pitching performances from Ethan Hollister & Kail Stratton along with timely hitting from Austin Schemenauer, Zach Sawyer, Peyton Norton and Sam Thompson have the Cavaliers off to a 2-1 start this season. It should be another exciting year for Cavalier baseball! If you’d like to see the Corunna Varsity or JV baseball teams play inperson this season, their upcoming schedules are located in the center of this month’s Corunna Connection.
Kegs Available! ORDER NOW!
Liquor • Beer • Wine • Groceries • Roll Your Own Smokes
Congratulations to the 2018 Corunna Graduates! LLOYD MILLER & SONS INC. Tractor & Equipment Company 3695 E. M-21, Corunna • 989-743-4049
www.lloydmillerandsons.com
CMS - Lion King JR.
(Photos Courtesy of Melissa Shepard)
(Photo Courtesy of Melissa Shepard)
(Photos Courtesy of George Napier)
The Corunna Middle School production of the musical sensation, The Lion King Jr., was performed at the Corunna Community Center in McCurdy Park on Friday March 16th and Saturday March 17th. The play was directed by teachers Robyn Lentz and Michael Windnagle.
(Photos Courtesy of Brieann Banas)
the
“amazing Race” a n n u cor The Corunna Connection is excited to be able to bring our version of the“Amazing Race” to everyone in Corunna
Saturday, May 19, 2018 Pre-registration available: corunnaconnectioncom, corunna connection facebook or a drop box at Recreation Warehouse. Registration 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at McCurdy Park. (look for the Corunna Connection banner & signs) Entry fee is $20 per team of two. Groups will be leaving every 10 minutes. Open to everyone. All ages are welcome
(one 18 year old must be registered per team and you must have a vehicle to drive to different businesses)
A percentage of player’s entry fees will go to Corunna Public Schools to provide supplemental support for educational experiences.
Teams of two will decifer clues and then travel to different area business at different intervals, and particpate in fun events. Hoping to be done by 2-3 p.m. Prizes given to first 10 teams that complete the “race.”
(Upon arrival, waiver forms must be signed to participate)
BASEBALL SEASON SOCCER SEASON
SOFTBALL SEASON
TRACK SEASON
SPRING =
Kori Shook Broker • Owner
TENNIS SEASON
Direct: 989-277-3295 Office: 989-720-4242 www.korishook.com korishook@gmail.com
HOME SELLING SEASON!
Call me today for for advice on prepping your home for the market. I’d love to coach you to a winning sale!
Athletes of the Month Presented by Rivals Taphouse & Grille Tori Hyde
By Sam Vowell
Victoria “Tori” Hyde is a well-rounded athlete and loves sports in general. She participated in organized dance/ gymnastics from pre-school through 8th grade, helping her to build strength and flexibility. She played basketball in middle school as well as volleyball from 7th through 10th grade. Tori began playing t-ball at 5 years old with the Corunna Recreational League and enjoyed watching her older sister play softball. That love of the game continued to grow as she played in the Corunna Recreational League for many years (even being part of a championship team with some of her Corunna High School Varsity teammates one year). At around 11 or 12 years old, Tori started talking about wanting to play softball at the college level, and moved to a team called the Shiawassee Storm. This was a more competitive level of the game where she began her travel-team experience. After two years with the Storm, Tori tried out for and made a team called the Mid-Michigan Firestix (where she has played since the fall 8th grade). Being part of this team, Tori has played in numerous tournaments at the State and National level, and has been part of several tournament winning teams with them. Tori has had great success for Corunna’s Varsity Girls Softball team. Catcher may be her primary position, but Tori also plays 2B & 3B for Coach Shuster’s Cavaliers. In 2016, Tori was named all-conference along with making The Argus-Press & Lansing State Journals “All-Area Teams”. 2017 turned out to be another outstanding year for Tori as she led Corunna with a .540 average, an .805 slugging percentage and 46 RBI’s. In addition, she scored 56 runs and stole 18 bases while providing stellar defense for the Cavs. She’s excited for the opportunity to help lead Corunna to a great season in 2018. Tori credits the support from her coaches, teammates (and their families) and her own family (including parents Tracy & Christopher Hyde) as a major reason for her growth as a player. She has had the opportunity to meet college coaches and players while seeking out the best place for her skills at the next level, which has also helped her to improve her game. Tori has taken what she’s learned and used it to give back to others. Melissa Shepard had this to say about her,“Tori has volunteered at some of our Shiawassee Patriots softball practices, working with some of our catchers. She selflessly took time out of her day to work with the girls and they enjoyed every minute of it. To this day, when our girls see her, she stops and talks to them.” Tori has signed to play with Mott Community College and looks forward to the next step in her softball journey this fall with The Bears. Tori will be obtaining an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science at Mott and then pursue a Physical Therapy degree at a four-year college upon completion of her Mott education. (Courtesy Photo)
Javen Howes
By Sam Vowell
Our athlete of the month went to Riverbend Bowl with his parents, Troy & Lynn Howes when he was just three years old. He’s been a fixture at Riverbend ever since that day, when he fell in love with the game of bowling. His father helped Javen learn the intricacies of the game as a youth. He joined Corunna’s varsity bowling team four years ago, helping the team claim three straight conference titles and back to back, Division 3, MHSAA State Final runner-up finishes. Javen rolled a 300 game on February 4th, 2017 and as a senior achieved what most can only dream about, winning the individual Division 3 MHSAA State Title on March 4th. Javen said, “I would like to thank all of my coaches; Jason Scott, Erik Pavka & Karla Scott and all of the teammates I bowled with the past four years for making bowling so fun!” aven has also been on Corunna’s varsity golf team and was named team MVP as a junior. Javen has a sister, Sierra and in addition to golf and bowling, he enjoys hunting. He currently has a 3.4 GPA and plans to attend Lansing Community College next year while pursuing a degree in construction management. (Courtesy Photo)
3 POINT PODCAST
3 small town guys from 3 generations with 3 very different takes on sports, pop culture and current events. Each new show drops on Saturday mornings so give it a listen and email your comments and topic suggestions to: Email: 3pointpod@gmail.com Twitter: Ted - @Z925SPORTSGUY Matt - @Burnsy381 or Jerod - @jerodfattal
3 Point Podcast is available for free on iTunes, SoundCloud and TuneIn Radio
LOCO-AUTOMOTIVE Diagnostics Brakes Tune-Ups Suspension Engines Transmission Jeff Gillig Owner/Master Certified
Differentials Clutches Used Vehicle Inspections Exhaust Preventative Maintenance Domestic & Foreign
(517) 410-4960
1075 Aiken Rd. Owosso, MI 48867
Melissa Shepard (989) 666-1340 msdesign45@gmail.com mshepard-design.com Business Cards ~ Flyers ~ Brochures ~ Logos Catalogs ~ Order Forms ~ Websites ~ T-Shirt Design
SPRING SPORT
BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL 4/16 Away 4:00pm 4/19 Home 4:00pm 4/23 Away 4:00pm 4/30 Home 4:00pm 5/3 Away 4:00pm 5/7 Home 4:00pm 5/10 Home 4:00pm
Goodrich Lansing Waverly Mt. Morris Lake Fenton Eaton Rapids Montrose Chesaning
BOYS JV BASEBALL 4/16 Home 4:00pm 4/19 Away 4:00pm 4/23 Home 4:00pm 4/30 Away 4:00pm 5/3 Home 4:00pm 5/7 Away 4:00pm 5/10 Away 4:00pm
Goodrich Lansing Waverly Mt. Morris Lake Fenton Eaton Rapids Montrose Chesaning
BOYS VARSITY GOLF 4/16 Home 4:00pm 4/18 Away 4:00pm 4/23 Away 4:00pm 4/30 5/2 5/7
Away Home Away
4:00pm 4:00pm 9:00am
5/9
Away
4:00pm
GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER 4/16 Home 7:00pm 4/19 Home 7:00pm 4/24 Away 4:00pm 4/26 Away 4:30pm 5/1 Away 4:00pm 5/3 Home 7:00pm 5/7 Away 4:00pm 5/10 Home 7:00pm
Byro Mt. M Lake Otisv Mon Dura Goo Carm
GIRLS JV SOCCER 5/10 Home 4:00pm
Carm
GIRLS VARSITY SOFTBALL 4/16 Away 4:00pm 4/23 Away 4:00pm 4/30 Home 4:00pm 5/3 Away 4:00pm 5/7 Home 4:00pm 5/10 Home 4:00pm
Goo Mt. M Lake Eato Mon Ches
Goodrich & Montrose Durand (New Lothrop) GIRLS JV SOFTBALL Montrose 4/16 Home 4:00pm Goo (GAC Midseason) 4/21 Away 9:00am Ches Mt. Morris (Lake Fenton) 4/23• Phone/Fax Home 4:00pm Mt. M 1544 E. M-21, Owosso (989) 723-543 Lake Fenton 4/30 Away 4:00pm Lake Flint Powers 5/3 Home 4:00pm Eato (Genesee County Meet) 5/7 Away 4:00pm Mon New Lothrop (Byron) 5/10 Away 4:00pm Ches
Chris Allen/CJ Dice
WILLIAM M. GRAHAM
SPORTS 2018
OCCER 7:00pm 7:00pm 4:00pm 4:30pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm
Byron Mt. Morris Lake Fenton Otisville-Lakeville Montrose Durand Goodrich Carman-Ainsworth
4:00pm
Carman-Ainsworth
OFTBALL 4:00pm 4:00pm 4:00pm 4:00pm 4:00pm 4:00pm
Goodrich Mt. Morris Lake Fenton Eaton Rapids Montrose Chesaning
LL 4:00pm Goodrich 9:00am Chesaning 4:00pm Mt. Morris (989) 723-5436 4:00pm Lake Fenton 4:00pm Eaton Rapids 4:00pm Montrose 4:00pm Chesaning
Accountant
GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS 4/16 Home 4:00pm 4/19 Home 4:00pm 4/23 Away 4:00pm 4/25 Home 4:00pm 4/26 Home 4:00pm 4/30 Home 4:00pm 5/7 Away 4:00pm 5/10 Home 10:00am
BOYS & GIRLS VARSITY TRACK 4/17 Home 4:30pm Mt. Morris (Lake Fenton) 4/27 Away 3:00pm Mason 5/1 Away 4:30pm Montrose 5/4 Home 3:00pm Cavalier Classic 5/8 Home 4:30pm Goodrich 5/12 Away 10:00am Alma College MIDDLE SCHOOL TRACK 4/16 Away 4:30pm 4/18 Home 4:30pm 4/23 Away 4:30pm 4/25 Home 4:30pm 4/30 5/2 5/9
Away Away Home
4:30pm 4:30pm 4:30pm
270 Bachus Street • Corunna, MI 48817 (989) 743-5459 FAX (989) 743-3980
Goodrich Durand Ovid-Elsie Flint Hamady Goodrich Mt. Morris Durand GAC Champ.
Webberville Goodrich Bendle (Durand) Atherton, New Lothrop, Webberville Burton Bendle (Gen) Mt. Morris (Beecher) Corunna Invitational
989.721.9561 Towing & Recovery Brandon Vejcik Owner/Operator
• 24 Hour Service • Lock-Outs • Jump-Starts • Winch-Outs • Fuel Delivery • Tire Changing • Buy/Tow Junk Vehicles • Tow/Haul Motorcylces • Flat Bed Available • Local & Long Distance Hauling
JOE & DIANE TIMLICK Owner/Operators
2611 E. M-21 Corunna, Michigan 48817 Master Mechanic Joe Timlick
30 Years Experience “We take care of your car as if it’s our family behind the wheel.”
Image Salon & Spa Featuring Children’s Hair Cuts
233 N. Shiawassee St., Corunna
(989) 413-7715
Stacey Henry (231) 942-1065 • cconnectionsales@gmail.com
8th grade washington d.c. trip
(Photos Courtesy of Tammy Richardson) On March 26, seventy-six 8th grade students and chaperones headed out early in the morning on their annual bus trip to Washington D.C. to explore Gettysburg and learn about their nation’s Capitol. Among the places they visited were the Virginia Memorial, Little Round Top, the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Natural His-
tory, the U.S. Capitol, The Library of Congress, The Supreme Court, The Lincoln Monument, Vietnam Monument, Korean Monument, World War II Monument, Washington Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and The Jefferson Memorial. They spent three days learning and exploring.
Proud Supporters of the Black and Gold!
Chris Rowe - Owner 3 OWO S S O LO C AT I O N S
1 1 1 9 W. M a i n S t. • 1 3 5 1 E. M a i n S t. • 1 6 2 1 E. M - 2 1
varsity girls tennis preview By Amy Golombisky The Lady Cavs varsity tennis team is blessed to be led by the deep knowledge and passion that coach Bill Lawson has for the sport of tennis. Coach Lawson is a certified professional tennis player and has coached at Corunna for over 20 years in multiple sports. His true focus has been tennis, coaching both the boys and girls’ teams over the years. This year again, with the help of assistant coach Terri Langstaff, the team’s current number of 15 athletes is preparing for an actionpacked season. There are high expectations for the 7 returning players to lead the way as they approach the season’s first competition. An excellent example of strong leadership and diligent work ethic, Shelby Swan, has returned for her senior year after earning conference championship titles for both ‘doubles’ (freshman & sophomore years) and ‘singles’ (her junior year). Shelby was MVP last year as well and exemplifies the importance of having the ability to remain receptive to criticism, relentlessly perfecting one’s own performance. Each athlete is guided to understand the science behind the techniques, which allows them to evolve in an individual manner while their performances collaborate as a team. Coach Lawson and Coach Langstaff put a heavy emphasis on empathic teaching and learning, and expect the team to work together to develop individually. The girls are encouraged to communicate with one another outside of practice and are expected to familiarize themselves with each other through self-appointed nicknames to facilitate a relaxed learning environment. Each athlete is a valuable component of the team’s ability to win and are recognized as such. This team’s roster is comprised of five seniors (Chloe Dingens, Anastasia Gulyeava, Miller Lantis, Shelby Swan, Brooke Tomlinson), three juniors (Hailey Drexler, Tatum LePino,
Rheanna Zsigo), two sophomores (Taylor Bentley, Kylee Brewer), and five freshmen (Lillian Alongi, Faith Birchmeier, Mia Finley, Lilly Kadlek, Abigail Plementosh). There is quite a bit of work for the team to do with a lineup of 12 girls required for each complete match, it leaves very little room to maneuver strategically. April 9th marks the season opener at Mt. Morris and five of the current team’s roster have never played tennis competitively before, being only introduced to the game briefly in physical education class. Despite these obstacles, morale is high and there’s a great deal of excitement in anticipation of the first girls season to be played on the brand new tennis courts. Anxiously, we wait for the privilege of watching each athlete’s devotion come to fruition. LUV-GOLD. (Courtesy Photo)
Formal dress resale and rental
810-577-6025
Dresses $ 60 or Less
black.bearlover@yahoo.com 11931 Lennon Rd., Lennon Marla Brisbin, Owner
Alterations available by appointment Hours: Thurs. & Fri.: Noon-5pm Sat. & Sun.: Noon-4pm All other days by appointment
Haphazardly Ever After
(Photo Courtey of Tammy Richardson)
(Photos Courtey of Kori Shook)
(Photos Courtey of Tammy Richardson)
On the weekend of March 9th, The Corunna High School Drama Club performed the play, Haphazardly Ever After. The play was directed by CHS students Nick Richardson and Evan Stehlik. Mr. Windnagle & Mrs Lentz helped the students put together a great performance. The following student/actors performed: Fairy One: Jasmin Hanuscak, Fairy Two: Faith Hanuscak, Reluctant Fairy: Faith Loomis, Narrator: Sophie Riley, Servant One: Alana Bills, Servant Two: Maeghan McGregor, King Barnabas: Alex Buckel, Queen Mildred: Kaitlyn Thomas, Prince Hairgel: Christian Valade, Prince Slacker: Justin Barrett, Princess Peppermint: Sara Hutchinson, Princess Cinnamon:
Free tes a m i t s E
(Photos Courtey of Tammy Patrick)
Caitlin Stone, Royal Therapist: Mia McCollough, Duke Of Cranberry: Dalton Otto, Princess Ambrosia: Stephanie Harwood, Prince Chowder: Dalton Otto, Royal Teacher #1: Stephanie Harwood, Royal Teacher #2: Brendan Mcgregor , Stage Crew One: Grace Jones, Stage Crew Two: Rebekiah Steinacker, Magic Mirror: Hali Walker, Fairy Godmother: Reagan Shook, Moe: William True, Poe: Ian McCollough, Roe: Leonard Davis, Paige: Josie Patrick, Mysterious Old Man: Dalton Otto, Witch: Michaela Harwood, Sorcerer: Colton Snyder, Eddie: Brendan Mcgregor, Genie: Reagan Shook, Phone Operator: Sophie Riley, Glitterbell: Michaela Harwood, Fairy Tale Inspector: Colton Snyder.
Proud To Support Cavalier Spring Sports!
“Leave The CLeaning To Us!”
CRASHLEY’S CLEANING COUPON
Chris Allen (810) 288-8004 Ashley Allen (810) 877-4694 Small Business Cleaning and Residential Crashleycleaning@gmail.com 14304 Sheridan Road Montrose, MI 48457
50 OFF
$
Any Commercial Contract Expires 5/16/18
CRASHLEY’S CLEANING COUPON
25 OFF
$
Any Residential Contract Expires 5/16/18
GOOD CREDIT BAD CREDIT
NO CREDIT BANKRUPTCY
$500.00 OFF VOUCHER Don’t Spend Your Whole Tax Return On A Car. Save Your MONEY!!! We Have LOW LOW LOW Down Payments! With LIFETIME WARRANTY! Flexible , Affordable Payments! Present This Letter To Management, Before or During The Application Process And Receive Up to $500.00 Off the Approved Financed Price Of Vehicle Purchased! We Financeeveryone.com
2600 E. M-21 • Corunna, MI 48817 • 989-472-4755
red cedar volleyball
6th Grade Red Cedar Volleyball Team
Front row, from left: Essabella Beard, Kara Everden, Alison Wright, Makenzie Hall, Jerzie Russell, Kayla Shepard. Back row, from left: Coach Sara Wright, Addy Henry, Cady Hildebrandt, Taylor Munro, Shelby Holmes, Iley Doyle and Katylynn Combs. Missing: Haley Throne. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Shepard)
5th Grade Red Cedar Volleyball Team
Front row, from left: Clare Henry, Aubrey Rosser, Brooklynn Bentley, Mackenzie Lecurex. Back row, from left: Peyton Challender, Coach Challendar, Brenna Kiesling, Taylor Throne, Alyson Warfle and Kyleigh Conklin. Missing: Dara Shay. (Courtesy Photo) Families from both Nellie Reed and Louise Peacock joined together recently at Nellie Reed for Family Math Night. Family Math Night offered an opportunity for parents to learn about their child’s math program and receive many hands-on activities to support their child’s learning. The students and families had lots of fun practicing their math skills. It truly is GREAT to be GOLD! (Photos courtesy of Shannon Toma (Nellie Reed Elementary Principal)
Vernon Area Florists and Unique Gifts
Let Mom Know She Is Loved Mother’s Day May 13 Lots to choose from.... fresh flowers, outdoor plants, hanging baskets, patio planters, candles, handmade soaps and more.
DON’T FORGET TO ORDER EARLY FOR THE UPCOMING PROM! 107 W. Main St., Vernon 989-288-5092 vernonflorist@vernonflorist.net
Dave Minarik, CFP®, AAMS® Financial Advisor 2246 E. Main St. Owosso, MI 48867 989-729-1313
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
the great outdoors With Garret Andrejack
As the early morning light breaks on the horizon, a loud gobble echoes through the crisp morning air. The woods and fields come alive with the sound of not only turkey gobbles, but songbirds, squirrels and other animals waking up to a new day. Spring is here and that means the Michigan Spring Wild Turkey season is also upon us. For me, this is one of my favorite time of the year. Turkey hunting is a great time to get outdoors after the slow winter months have passed. It truly is surprising how loud it can get in the early morning as the woods come alive with wildlife activity. The wild turkey is an amazing bird and Ben Franklin must have agreed. He suggested the wild turkey as our national bird. But, the bald eagle won out over the wild turkey by only one vote. The wild turkey is a game bird that has keen senses and requires various tactics for a hunter to be successful in bagging one of these elusive birds, during the Michigan Wild Turkey season. One of the most frequent misconception is that big flocks of turkeys will stay in the same place year round. As the breeding season gets closer the hens (female turkeys) will leave the group to go out in search of nesting areas. This often will start around the first of April in southern Michigan. The toms (male turkeys) will then spread out across many different woodlots in search of hens to breed with. At this point they will become much more aggressive towards other toms as well as claiming their own parcel of land. This is where patterning comes in. At this time of year the toms will begin to establish routes that they will travel often every day in search of hens. The toms will generally establish this pattern and will often stick to it, hitting the same spots at almost the same time every day. They will continue to do this until they find a hen or group of hens that they can stick with, and even then the groups will travel together in patterns. One way to figure out these patterns is to use game cameras or frequently visit and observe the area in which you hunt. For me this technique of patterning turkeys has been a very successful strategy. Once they start looking for mates, you should start to see them following the routes on a regular basis, but be prepared for it to change. Patterning can help, but it is not guaranteed, as turkeys can change these patterns anytime. There are also many different types of calls and calling strategies for turkey hunting. The three main calls that are used are box calls, slate calls, and mouth calls. I use box calls because they are very loud and can often be heard from a long ways away. However, for me, I cannot make them sound as good and precise as a slate call. If the turkeys are within a fairly close distance or I can see them, I will often use a slate call. Occasionally, I will use a mouth call. They are a little trickier to use and are best used for when a turkey is within range and I just need to get it to stick its head out for a shot, and I need to keep my hands free. Nobody knows what a turkey wants to hear on any given day. That being said, there are many different calling strategies to use. Some hunters don’t call at all and just let the turkeys follow their pattern and come to them, within shooting distance. Others will only call when they hear a tom gobble. Some hunters are much more aggressive than others when calling turkeys. Sometimes you just have to experiment and over time see what works best in different situations. Most of the time I follow the pattern my Dad taught me and has had the most success, by calling about once every 15 minutes to let the toms know where we are at and listen for a response. If the tom gob-
bles back then we will continue to go back and forth with them to try and persuade them in our direction. What you have to be careful of in this situation is the fact that you cannot over communicate with them or they will become uninterested. The best way to tell if a turkey is interested in your calling is when you are calling to imitate a hen, a tom will cut in and not let you finish the call sequence. This often means that they are not with hens and they are quite possibly coming your way. If they are this interested you better get your gun ready and keep calling because they could come running fast! If you call and then there is a pause before there is a response, this often means that they are with hens and they are not easily going to be pulled away. You can still continue to call and they will most likely gobble back, but they are just letting you know that they are there and want you to join them. You also have some toms that will come to your calls silently. I have had times where I called all day and there were no responses. Then out of nowhere a group of turkeys just showed up. So, always be prepared. There are also many theories on whether or not to use decoys, and what the best setup is. Some people use strutting toms, others use strutting jakes (first year male turkeys with smaller beards), and some do not use strutting birds at all. I personally use a non-strutting jake trailing behind two feeding hens about 15 to 20 yards away. The idea is to use the hens to make any other toms want to establish dominance over the jake that is with them. They are also effective at drawing in hens which is the best situation because then you have live decoys. The reason that we do not use a strutting bird, or a tom is because sometimes they will intimidate smaller toms that may want to come in. Granted, if you are only hunting for monsters an average sized strutting tom may work just fine. With the jake you will often even get other jakes come strutting in to your decoys. Finally, there is often a debate on which season to hunt. In Southern Michigan, hunters can hunt during a season in late April or in May. Both April, and May seasons can be very successful and both have their pros and cons. During the April season there are less leaves on the undergrowth in woods and it is definitely easier to see further in the woods. Based on our experience turkeys often seem to be more vocal in the April season. The May season has an additional two weeks, so if you are concerned about not being able to get out into the woods enough, or you have a busy schedule, May might be the best choice for you. The down sides to May is the fact that it can be pretty warm and, there are also lots of mosquitos out. I have personally always hunted the April season. This is usually because I have always tended to have good success, and also because May tends to be a busy month for me with other activities. There are a lot of variables involved with turkey hunting. Turkeys can be predictable and even cause you to think they are dumb birds at times. But, just when you think you have them figured out, everything changes and they may you look dumb. As a hunter, that just gives you the chance to increase your knowledge and keep giving yourself a challenge as well as excitement. So, if you are already planning to take part in hunting the wild turkey or even considering it, it is a great time to get out and have some fun enjoying the great outdoors.
2018 Girls Track & Field Preview Fast and Experienced Cavaliers Look Forward to Another Great Season
(Courtesy Photo) (Courtesy Photo) Elizabeth Norris, winning the high jump at MSU with a 5’2” jump. (Courtesy Photo) By Jerod Fattal The Lady Cavaliers took 2nd to the eventual state champion Lansing Waverly1 at regionals last year, but as rapper Gucci Mane explains in his autobiography2 “If you keep lookin’ back, you gon’ trip going forward.” In a region that has produced the past four Division 2 State Champions, the Cavaliers have their eyes set squarely on a regional championship. The Cavaliers return a very talented and experienced team this season, but that won’t be their only advantage(s) at regionals. This year, Corunna will host regionals3 on Friday May 18 at their newly renovated track facility, “[The facility] is receiving recognition at the state level,” said 7th year girls head track coach Alan Mont gomery.“we have schools from across the state that love the efficiency of our complex.” The updated facility will feature a completely redone track surface, brand new hurdles, long jump runways and pits, a 4-lane warmup runway, and a relocated and renovated shotput and discus range.4 The experienced team returns 5 state qualifiers from last season, including sophomore Hannah Hollister and junior Lexi Mort, who was a regional champion in the 100M hurdles last year. The dynamic duo recently took 1st and 2nd place in the hurdles at the stacked Spartan Invitational to start the season, where the Cavaliers were the 3rd smallest school that competed. Returning regional champion sophomore Elizabeth Norris also impressed at MSU where she won the high jump, despite not jumping over a bar since last season.5 Another returning state qualifier for the Cavaliers will be junior sprint specialist Maddie Birchmeier who qualified on last year’s 4x100 relay team. The Cavaliers will be without senior pole-vaulter Myah Kelly to start the season, as she is currently nursing a stress fracture injury. The Davenport commit is a regional champion, 2x all state (6th in Division 2 last year) pole vaulter who the Cavaliers lean on for both her athletic and leadership talents. “Her health is our number one concern right now, but if she’s healthy I think Myah could have a real shot to take first [at states],” Montgomery explained. Corunna also returns junior Kate Feldpausch, who has been an anchor for the Cavaliers distance crew the past few years in the 1600 and 3200M races. Junior Mariah Dunkin and senior Marina Hall are a pair of talented discus throwers and shot putters who have seen great
(Photos Courtey of Gary Jacobs)
improvements since they first started throwing. Senior 300 M hurdler Rylee Thayer will also contribute to the talented Cavalier team by doing more than “simply” jumping over hurdles. The “3X Gatorade Chug Race”6 champion will be counted on by her team to lead them to another title.“I look forward to Rylee Thayer having a great senior season” Montgomery said. But in order for the Cavaliers to achieve their goals of a regional championship and a 4th straight GAC conference title, they will need help from their incoming talented freshman distance runners Lilly Evans and Evie Wright (who already qualified for states in the 3200M). But the team’s young talent does not stop with the distance events. Lilly Bower has also impressed in her freshman campaign in both the 100 and 300 M hurdles. The Corunna team has a perfect blend of talent and experience that could propel them to a great season filled with potential state medals and regional and conference titles. But in order to do so, the Cavaliers will have to continue to preserve and improve throughout the long season. With the goal of winning a regional title on their home track in the back of their minds as fuel… Well that, and the potential of winning the illustrious “Gatorade Chug Race.” 1. Lansing Waverly moved up to Division 1 this season. 2. For all the “old timers” who don’t know who Gucci Mane is, the easiest way for me to describe would be the 1980’s version of John Lennon… Only better. And his book is a great read that I personally recommend! 3. It’s a great advantage to be able to host or stay close to home for big sporting events, unless you’re the 2018 MSU Men’s Basketball team who lost to Syracuse in Detroit. YIKES! 4. The new equipment doesn’t stop there, they will also have new “lasers” that can measure how far shots and discs are thrown… Today’s technology is unreal. 5. This is so impressive, it reminds me of when Larry Bird won the NBA three-point contest in 1988, without taking any warm up shots beforehand. 6. Coach Montgomery started the Race 7 years ago to preach the importance of the hydration, since then the race has become almost as anticipated as the Masters (coming in April).
CHS band at Walt disney world
The Corunna High School Marching Band made the trip to Walt Dis- “Bandtastic” BBQ Dinner Fundraiser at the Corunna VFW Post 4005, ney World March 24-29. They had stops at Magic Kindgdom, Holly- Corunna on April 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. wood Studios, Epcot andBlizzard Beach. The bands will be hosting a (Courtesy Photos)
Corunna Represented at State Capitol
Dylan Dowen, Michigan State Representative Ben Frederick and Avianna Jackson. (Courtesy Photo) The Shiawassee County Fair is one of the largest youth centered fairs in the state. On March 21st, Avianna Jackson and Dylan Dowen, two members of the fair’s junior board members were at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing for MAFE’s (Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibits) legislative day. Avianna and Dylan spoke with many of Michigan’s government officials about how great the Shiawassee County Fair is and gave them information regarding this year’s annual event that will be held in August. They shared information about how work
Dylan Dowen and Avianna Jackson. (Courtesy Photo) is already underway to make this year’s event a success along with some new things that will be coming. Avianna and Dylan are both Corunna High School students and FFA members. They would like to thank MAFE and The Shiawassee County Fair for the amazing opportunity they had. If you’d like to find out more about the 2018 Shiawassee County Fair, go to their website at www.shiawasseefair.com.
college signings Zach Sawyer signs with Cornerstone University
(Courtesy Photo) Senior Ryan Schwab has been accepted to the University of Detroit Mercy’s highly competitive 5 year Accelerated Physician’s Assistant Program! Over 150 students apply to the program annually, with only 25 accepted. Additionally, Ryan will continue his running career as a member of Mercy’s cross country and track teams under the guidance of Coach Guy Murray. Ryan has experienced great success as part of the 2016/2017 Boys’ Cross Country State Championship team and looks forward to a strong season as a returning member of the boys’ track team’s distance program. He’s also carved his name into the history of Corunna High School by breaking two long standing diving records this past season as a part of the nearly undefeated swim and dive team. While sports are important to Ryan, it is his drive to succeed academically that will help him to achieve even bigger life goals. We wish Ryan well at Detroit Mercy!
Duncan Gillett signs with Grand Valley State University
(Courtesy Photo) Duncan Gillett, a 2016 Corunna High graduate recently signed with Grand Valley State College’s baseball team. Duncan was an ace pitcher for Coach Osika’s past squads and has been playing for Lansing Community College the past two seasons. During the 2017 season, the LCC Stars not only made it to the NJCAA Division II World Series, they finished as the #3 team in the country. Duncan and LCC are off to a great start this season and currently have a 19-6 overall record. Duncan is the son of Corunna High Class of ’89 graduates, Dan & Shannon Gillett. Best wishes to Duncan the rest of this season with LCC and in the future with GVSU!
(Courtesy Photo) Corunna senior baseball player Zach Sawyer has signed a letter of intent to play baseball and continue his education for Cornerstone University next season. Zach is a speedy, smooth fielding second baseman for Coach Chuck Osika’s Cavaliers. Zach helped lead the Cavaliers to a regional baseball championship last season and will “continue the climb” with the Cavs this spring before heading to join the Cornerstone Golden Eagles. Zach is shown in the photos with his parents Jeff & Lori Sawyer and Coach Osika.
elementary school news
Elsa Meyer Elementary first grade students in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) classroom of Mrs. Palasio are shown evaluating their models to solve the problem of protecting themselves on the playground at high noon. Students figured out where the sun would be at noon to create the right shade for the playground. They tested their designs with UV flashlights coming
from the direction the sun would be positioned in the sky at noon. It was a pleasure to see the excitement from the students when none of the mystery beads used to detect UV rays changed color under their shelters. The plans they designed were all successful! (Courtesy Photos)
elementary school news Ben Jacobs with a great run in New York!
Xavier Anderson – State Champion!!!
(Courtesy Photo) On March 24th, Corunna 7th grader Xavier Anderson won a MYWAY state championship in the 133 lb weight class. The MYWAY state meet was held in Kalamazoo. Xavier has had an outstanding wrestling season and has sure been hard for opponents to handle. We know Corunna Varsity Wrestling Coach Wibert is looking forward to having him on the high school squad along with many other young and talented wrestlers in the future. Congratulations Xavier!
The Corunna Varsity Boys Swim TeamISC Conference Champs On the weekend of March 9th, Corunna junior Ben Jacobs competed at the New Balance Indoor Nationals in New York City in the Emerging Elite 2 Mile race. In the race, Ben took 5th place while running a career best 9:24.33. That time converts to a 9:21 3200m. This was Ben’s 2nd straight season running at the New Balance Indoor National Championships. Great job Ben! (Photos courtesy of Gary Jacobs)
(Photo courtesy of Jessica Edwards)
Connection of the month Corunna Connection of the Month-Natalie Mesh
(Courtesy Photo)
(Courtesy of Gary Jacobs)
(Courtesy Photo) By Michelle Schwab Some may know her by the sound of her voice as she yells “GO RUN GO GO GOOOOOOO!!!” on the outskirts of the track or through the cross-country field. Some may know her as the dedicated lady who’s running in the middle of a snowstorm, leaving snow hearts and snow angels in their yard or at the school. Some may know her from the happy mail that she sends out on a birthday, anniversary or just to cheer someone up with a warm, friendly hello. However you know Natalie Mesh, you cannot deny that the one, universal word to describe her is “motivating”. A 1985 graduate of Corunna High School, Natalie burned up the track and cross country course with some amazing results. She ran track for 4 years, breaking the 2-mile record as a freshman (Editor’s note: She was Natalie Nesbit back then, sister to my buddy Joe, faster than most of us boys, with the same positive/never ending energy she exhibits to this day), and then 3 more times that same year! She ran at States 3 times for cross country and finished her best run at 27th in the state. Her passion for running has only grown stronger as she has cheered for her two younger children, Emily and Kyle, as they carved out their own success in Corunna track & field and crosscountry history. Natalie has become infamous as a “sideline” coach, running alongside each athlete during each event, cheering and encouraging. The support that she has shown not only her children, but each member of the team, motivates them to be the best they can be. Her daughter, Emily, shares, “One of my favorite things about having my mom at everything is that I knew I always had the strongest, most loving fan any athlete could ask for. She was always with me for the good races and the bad races. And all the hard work it takes to be an athlete…she was always right there to help in any way she
(Courtesy of Gary Jacobs)
(Courtesy of Gary Jacobs) could!” Natalie’s support has not ended at her children’s graduation. She continues to wear her bright, yellow CHS track sweats on every meet day and send happy notes to the athletes to encourage them to run fast and with passion. Natalie loves her community and the people in it. She can often times be found picking up trash or shoveling sidewalks for her neighbors on one of her daily runs. This winter, she has become known as the “Heart Lady”, who leaves hearts and angels in the snow wherever she goes. She knows when a friend is having a rough time and cheers them up with a special 5 am visit to decorate their yard with happy messages. Corunna students have enjoyed finding her messages in the schoolyard and look for them with every fresh snowfall. Perhaps only those closest to Natalie know that she keeps an Excel spreadsheet with anniversaries, birthdays and special occasion dates of her friends and family and sends happy mail daily. She utilizes stickers, colored pencils and fun paper to send personalized messages to cheer, motivate, encourage and celebrate. A happy mail from Natalie is worth a hundred Hallmark cards. Natalie’s long time friend and running buddy, Michelle Trowbridge, describes her as intense, dedicated, caring and kind. She feels that Natalie has impacted her life by, “keeping me motivated on those days when I didn’t feel like doing anything.” Anyone who knows Natalie would have to agree. Natalie resides in Corunna with her husband of 21 years, Marv Mesh, and her daughter, Nina Owen, who is a full time office assistant at Slingerland Chrysler Dodge. Emily is a 3rd year accounting student at Cleary University and Kyle is a freshman at Saginaw Valley State University, studying nursing.