November 2019
veterans day celebration More Photos Inside on Page 4.
(Photos courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
To submit stories/photos email MELISSA at CORUNNACONNECTION@GMAIL.COM and to advertise in booklet contact STACEY at 231.942.1065 or CCONNECTIONSALES@GMAIL.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. Stacey Henry, sales mgr.: cconnectionsales@gmail.com; and Melissa Shepard, design/production/editor: corunnaconnection@gmail.com.
The Corunna Connection paper is available Corunna Public Schools Administration Building, Corunna City Hall, The Town Tub, Community District Library Corunna and Kroger.
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corunna news New App and Website Launched November Employee of the Month Corunna Public Schools launched a new app and a completely updated website on Friday, November 1st. The app, available for free from both Google Play and the Apple Store, features everything Corunna…. In your pocket. All of your texts and/or phone messages will be coming through the new mobile app, Apptegy. The new app will help students, parents and community members know what is happening on campus, right from their phones. Superintendent John Fattal said, “It’s hard for parents to find information when they have children in different schools, in different sports, different activities, etc., so we looked into finding a way to help. We knew that pretty much everyone had smartphones, so what better way than to have Everything Corunna at your fingertips.” The new app shows users cafeteria menus, real-time sports scores, contact information for staff, event information, allows parents to connect with teachers and administrators, receive updates about events occurring on campus, get district news, download required forms, get emergency notifications and more.
WE NEED YOU The Corunna Connection was created as a platform for Corunna residents and students to connect. Over the past few years the new owners have tried to add a more diverse content to the paper, as well as starting up a website. We were, and are, still the ONLY printed version of Corunna Only news around. Since the beginning, the paper hasn’t had staff writers, just volunteers that have sent in photos and stories of newsworthy events and people. We appreciation and count on YOU, the READERS (parents, grandparents, alumni, etc.). You don’t have to be a journalist or English major to help. If you are attending a sporting event, or club event, and something is happening that you think should be in the Corunna Connection, pull out your phone, take a photo and email it to corunnaconnection@gmail.com with a short description of what it is. That’s it. We have two great student writers that were recommended by Corunna High English & Yearbook Teacher Jessica Hilewsky. While these students are doing a great job, they have homework, play multiple sports, have jobs, and are involved in other clubs. They can’t cover everything, or even ¼ of the events that happen each month. We pride ourselves on communicating the great things that Corunna kids are doing. Our kids go to school and play sports at Corunna so we want to continue to be able to bring the Cavalier community a print version of the Corunna Connection. For more information about how you can contribute or support the paper and your children, text or call Missi (989) 666-1340.
Kari Carnell has been named November Employee of the Month. Kari was honored during the Monday, November 18th Board of Education meeting held at Corunna High School. Kari was hired in September of 2010 as a physical education teacher at Corunna Middle School. “I am so honored to be the Employee of the Month. Corunna holds a special place in my heart and I love how much of a family atmosphere we have. People at Corunna Public Schools truly care about one another and it’s a great place to work every day,” said Kari. Kari is also the Corunna High School Varsity Volleyball coach. As a coach, she has led her teams to 4 straight conference championships, 5 district championships, 3 regional championships and 1 final four appearance. Kari’s overall coaching record at Corunna is 275136-34. She was also named the 2018 Regional Coach of the Year and the 2019 Metro Stars Division Coach of the Year. Kari is pictured with Board of Education Secretary Dennis Braid. (Photo Courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
2019-2020 School Calendar Wed.-Fri., Nov. 27-29
No School – Thanksgiving Break
Monday, December 23- Friday-January 3
Christmas Break
Monday, January 6
School resumes from Christmas Break
Mon., Feb. 17
No School-Presidents’ Day
Friday, March 6
No School-Professional Development Day
Monday, March 30- Friday, April 3
Spring Break– No School
Monday, April 6
School resumes from Spring Break
Friday, April 10
Good Friday-No School
Monday, May 25
No School – Memorial Day
Tuesday, June 2
*Tentative Last Day of School (1/2 day for all students)
fattal’s forum I used to love snow days. As an elementary student, I remember the joy of playing outside all day. That meant a little “boot” hockey on the frozen “pond” in our front yard on Kingsley Street or climbing the huge snow hills near the Courthouse. As a middle schooler, I loved the fact that I could sleep in and go to my friends’ house (or vice versa) and play Nerf baseball or Nerf basketball, trade baseball, basketball or football cards, or play APBA baseball (the early board game version of Fantasy Sports). In high school, college, and into my teaching days, that joy was felt by being able to sleep in, perhaps go to basketball practice, take a nap, and then hope for a snow day the next day. Ah, the simple pleasures of youth. Fast forward about 50 or so years, and I’m not so keen on snow days anymore! As you know, we had our first winter storm of the season hit our state on Veterans Day, causing us to cancel school on Tuesday, November 12. Being charged with making a decision to either have school or cancel it is one of the most difficult decisions superintendents face. Rarely is it cut-and-dry, either. And it’s those 50-50 days that really cause the most consternation. So, I would like to spend some time sharing how the decision is made (or not) to cancel school. There are three primary goals when making the decision to close school. 1. First and foremost is the safety of all students. Is it safe for them to navigate the roads, stand at a bus stop or walk to school? 2. Use all of the information that I gather, which includes personally driving district roads, checking with local and state weather authorities, checking with the Shiawassee County Road Commission and speaking with other Shiawassee County school superintendents, and Shiawassee County RESD Superintendent Dave Schulte to make the most informed decision. 3. Make the decision to close school in enough time for parents to be able to make childcare arrangements. Our past practice has been if a winter storm warning is issued that includes a significant number of school hours, we have not risked bringing students in, especially if we have concerns about getting them home. The practice with temperature and when/how we cancel school is set at -20° (temperature or wind chill). We do everything we can to make those decisions early (the night before if possible) so families can plan accordingly. Typically, children’s services daycare will be open, however, if the weather is severe enough, there’s always the possibility we may have to cancel that well. Extracurricular activities come into play during inclement weather days as well. When school is canceled, all non-varsity practices are typically canceled. Decisions about contests for voluntary varsity practices are made after 12 o’clock. When there is a school cancellation, community education events are automatically canceled. If a parent or guardian feels conditions make it unsafe for travel to school, it is always their choice to decide the best course of action for their family. I take the safety of our students, staff, and parents very seriously. Finally, please be sure to sign up for our new phone app to get all the school closing information in real-time. Simply search “Corunna” in your phone’s app and you can get that information. When faced with our next bout of inclement weather (would it be too much to ask that it doesn’t happen until NEXT November??), I hope this gives you a little insight into how the decision is made. A little bit of gratitude What a great time of year! The holiday season
is nearly in full swing and right in front of us. As an old guy, I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am to be leading this district. We have the best people. We have the hardest working people. And most importantly, we have the most caring staff around. At the risk of being “corny” or “sappy”, I’d like to simply spend some time sharing with you some of the things we can all be grateful for here at Corunna. Having such caring employees who are able to connect with our students. You have no idea how many hugs and smiles our staff gets on a daily basis, simply because they know our staff likes and cares about our students. Students typically are pretty accurate when it comes to determining if adults care about them. And they’ll let you know it! Having a teaching staff that constantly is striving to improve the academic achievement for ALL students. We aren’t perfect – but we are constantly working to reach one more student, make one more improvement on our lesson plans, or do one more thing that will make Corunna Public Schools more inviting to our students on a daily basis. Living in a community that cares so much about what happens at Corunna Public Schools. Our school system is at the very crux of our community members. We’re not like Frankenmuth (with their German heritage and restaurants), Chesaning (Showboat), Portland (two rivers), Durand (Michigan’s railroad history) or even Owosso (Curwood Festival, Thomas Dewey or Frederick Carl Frieseke). Corunna’s & Vernon’s residents (and those whose families have made the CHOICE to come here) identify Corunna with our school system. It is now, and always will be, a source of pride for people to say, “I graduated from Corunna.” We do have outstanding things here in our little town, though. McCurdy Park is better than any other, we have lots of working happening with our dam, our downtown area is making strides to be revitalized, we host an incredible 4th of July celebration, among other items. Basically, we epitomize small-town Americana! Our custodial staff works hard and takes great pride in making sure people are impressed with the look and feel of our buildings. Our buildings look better and are cleaner now than they have been in years! A fantastic food service program. Our food service team members are always thinking of how they can reach more students. We have fewer students in our school now than in years past -- yet the number of students participating in breakfast and lunch is higher than it has been in the past. A support staff that cares about making our district the BIG time. Our parapros and office managers know our students inside and out and go way above and beyond to help our students with whatever they may need. In short, I am truly lucky and blessed. I believe I have the best job in the land! I hope you and your family enjoy all your favorite activities and sights that come with this amazing time of year. Also, thank you for your continued support for Corunna Public Schools. Young or old, it’s GREAT to be GOLD! Miscellany Our New App We are thrilled to announce our new app for mobile phones! Stay up-to-date with access to real-time sports scores, the daily cafeteria menu, news from administrators, student stories, and even emergency notifications. You can download the app for free on both Google Play or the Apple App Store. Download for Android: http://bit. ly/2QcwruV or download for iPhone: https://apple.co/2QeKuzU.
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veterans day celebration
(Photos courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
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Veterans Day Corunna High School and Middle School students attended an assembly on Veterans Day at CHS. The assembly was held in honor of all veterans, who were invited to have donuts, coffee and cider before the start of the assembly. The Corunna High School band, along with the color guard opened the morning ceremony. High School teacher Steve Herrick addressed the honored guests, students and staff. He gave a very heartfelt and beautiful tribute for all who have served and who serve today. Students respectfully applauded the veterans in attendance and came away with a better understanding of the history of Veterans Day. A video was shared highlighting students saying “thank you” to all veterans. The Corunna High School band also played while the color guard performed. It was a special event to remember the sacrifices that millions of veterans have made to ensure our American way of life. It’s a legacy of selfless service that makes us proud to be an American.
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fall sports season recap
Left to right: Claire Buckley, Amara Jackson, Mariah Hall and Samirrah Dodge.
Left to right: Mariah Hall, Amara Jackson and Claire Buckley.
Girls Diving Season
Mariah Hall
Amara Jackson (Photos courtesy of Amy Jackson)
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Submitted by Coach Amy Golombisky According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the sport of diving originated in Europe in the early 19th century as a diversion to gymnasts, and became a competitive sport later that same century. It was added to the Olympic Games in 1904. Here in Michigan, at the high school level, our athletes follow similar guidelines according to the National High School Federation and the Michigan High School Athletic Association rules and modifications, which are regularly reviewed by each organization respectively. The athletes are expected to learn at least two dives from each category, of which there are five. Divers are expected to perform between 6 and 11 of these dives at each team competition throughout their season. Dives are judged by coaches and officials and tallied according to a degree of difficulty scale based on the complexity of each dive. These rules govern each diver’s performance and create a basis on which each dive is judged with considerable authority. However, they fail to motivate. It is the fearlessness and competitive spirit of our diver’s desire to excel that drives these finely-tuned athletes to propel themselves headlong into the open water from dizzying heights, contorting their bodies to accommodate scoring mandates and risking injury as they suspend themselves in the air over an unforgiving fiberglass board. Such nerve is legendary and the psychological aspect is often underappreciated. This season’s dive team consisted of 4 young ladies with nerves of steel. Our roster includes Samirrah Dodge (freshman), Claire Buckley (sophomore), Mariah Hall (sophomore) and Amara Jackson (junior). Each diver made impressive additions to their dive repertoire this year. Sometimes even throwing a dive for the very first time, ever, at a meet or besting their own personal records at each competition all season long. Amara and Mariah both earned the opportunity to compete at our Regional competition on November 14th in St Johns. This was a privilege bestowed upon divers who received 4 first place finishes or placed in the top 10 at our conference meet November 9th. Mariah finished her season placing 22nd overall at Regionals and Amara finished strong in 15th place, missing the state qualifying placement (12th) by only 3 places. All of these young ladies will have the opportunity again next year to make us envious of their talent, skill and bold spirits. Despite the numerous injuries from collisions with the board or the water, their hearts remain stalwart and focused on their successes and the success of their team. Their fearless devotion and loving support of their teammates are what reminds us all that it’s Great To Be GOLD.
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fall sports season recaps Cross Country Season Recap
Submitted by Coach Bryan Heid With the 2019 cross country season behind us we can reflect on another successful year. With an amazing group of young men and women, the teams rose to the challenges and came out stronger than they started. Both teams had their best races at the end of the year as they benefited from their hard work. The boys team finished strong with a win at the Shiawassee County Meet and earned a trip to the State Championships with a 3rd place finish at the Regionals. The girls team sent 2 runners to the State meet and also finished the season well with 2nd place at the Shiawassee County Meet and a 5th place finish at Regionals. Some injuries sidetracked our runners, with Evan Roka and Lilly Evans battling through pain to make the best of the situation. They are great examples of the toughness and dedication to the sport and to the team. Evan provided a gutsy performance at the Regional meet, finishing in 4th place to propel the team to the State Meet. When asked why he put himself through the physical therapy and the discomfort, Evan’s only response was that he did it for his teammates. That was a constant theme for these runners. They were not just invested in times and places, but in doing their best to represent their teammates and their school. Multiple instances were witnessed where our
(Photo courtesy of Hickory Lane Photography) runners emptied their tanks because they wanted their team to do well and for their school to be held in high regard. Lilly Evans showed her determination as she found a way to not just get better, but still race at a high level as she individually qualified for the State Meet for her third straight year, while nursing hip and quadriceps injuries for half the season. The 2019 Cross Country season also provided lots of opportunities for veteran runners. After running in JV races in past years or seeing injuries derail progress, we had several senior runners earn the opportunity to race at the big meets for the varsity team. Drew Nickels, Dillion Baumchen and Zach Gooding represented the guys, while Lexi Bukovick and Kirsten Simmons raced for the girls in the senior years. It was great to see them reaping the benefits of multiple years of hard work and finishing their careers racing well. Mason Warner and Evie Wright finished with the top places for the teams at the State Meet, while the guys team and the two girls were Academic All-State recipients due to their performances not only on the course, but in the classroom. These runners provided further examples of hard work paying off and the dedication and hearts of champions.
Varsity Volleyball Season Recap Submitted by Varsity Volleyball Coach Kari Carnell The Varsity Volleyball season definitely did not end the way we had hoped. However, we did win the school’s first Metro League Championship in the Stars Division and finished 9-1 in league play. Over-all we finished the season at 24-10-6 and were ranked honorable mention the entire season. We also won the Silver Division Championship at the Fenton Tournament. Next year we hope to regain our momentum and finished stronger in a few tournaments as well as excelling in our league and setting our sights on, and working hard to finished stronger in the district tournament. (Photo courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
For More Information On How To Advertise In This Book Contact Stacey Henry (231) 942-1065 or cconnectionsales@gmail.com To Submit News: email corunnaconnection@gmail.com
FFA
Amber Szakal was recognized on Monday, November 18th by the Corunna Public Schools’ Board of Education for earning a National Silver in Dairy Handlers at the National FFA Convention held October 30 to November 2, and for winning the State Dairy Handlers DE in July. From left: FFA teacher Casie Forbush, Amber Szakal and FFA teacher Brian Kiesling.
On October 21st & 22nd, students from the Corunna FFA chapter traveled to Lansing to attend the Fall leadership Conference. All six students learned a lot about how to be a leader and about agricultural careers first hand. At the same time, Mr. Kiesling and Miss Forbush learned a lot of great information at their professional development side of the conference. It was a great two days in Lansing for the Corunna FFA. (Courtesy Photo )
Amber Szakal receiving her award from the Corunna Public Schools’ Board of Education. (Photos courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
Athletes of the Month Presented by Rivals Taphouse & Grille Fisher Morris
By Melissa Shepard
Senior Fisher Morris isn’t just a standout on the football field, playing slot on offense, linebacker on defense, along with being the kicker and punter. He is also on the Boy’s Swim team as lead diver and on the Boy’s Track team, entering the 100 M and long jump. Fisher has earned many honors in his high school athletic caereer, including: All-Conference punter for 2 years, being ranked the #2 punter in the state of Michigan for 2 weeks by Max Preps, Offensive MVP of the Year for CHS Football, 3rd All-Time Long Jumper (20’4”) at Corunna as a junior, lead diver for Corunna of the 2019 Conference Championship team. After graduation, he plans to play college sports as a kicker and/or a diver and study to be a Conservation Officer. During football season, he made an official visit to Central Michigan University with a teammate. In his spare time, Fisher likes to golf, hunt and fish. He also teaches punting and kicking to Owosso 7th and 8th graders. Fisher’s favorite thing about being a Cavalier is “the friendships I’ve gained being part of my teams.” (Courtesy Photo)
Jazmin Marecek
By Melissa Shepard
Senior Jazmin Marecek is a very busy senior. She has been on the Competitive Cheer team for 4 years, Sideline Cheer for 3 years and the Soccer Team for 4 Years. She even earned the honor of Captain of the Cheer Team. Jazmin talked about her teammates, “my teammates are very kind, funny and uplifting people. They want the best for every on the team.” In addition to the three sports she currently plays, Jazmin also is a member of the Cavalier Marching Band and is part of the color guard. She has been in the band since 6th grade and a member of the Cavalier color guard for 4 years, and has been section leader for 2 years. After graduation, Jazmin plans to continue her education at Michigan State University to be a veterinarian, and hopefully be in the MSU Marching Band to be in the color guard. When asked what she likes about being a Cavalier, Jazmin said, “It’s like a family and everybody is supportive of one another.” (Courtesy Photo)
FFA
At Shedd’s Aquarium in Chicago.
Delegates from Left to right: Abby Banister, Amara Jackson, Haylee Schneider, Breann Barker, and Faith Butcher. Also our very own At the Bean in Chicago. (Courtesy Photos) Mr. Brieger!
FFA Travels to Indianapolis On the week of November 3rd, the Corunna FFA traveled to Indianapolis, IN for National Convention. The Agricultural Mechanics team consisting of Briggs Stickel, Joey Lloyd, Austin Sampson, and Jake VanNewkirk represented Michigan well and got a bronze. Amber Szakal competed in the National FFA Dairy Handlers contest and got a silver. Thank you to our students that competed and attended as delegates
GOOD LUCK TO ALL WINTER SPORTS TEAMS
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for representing Corunna well. This week was a blast filled with inspirational retiring addresses from our National Officers to tours in Chicago and Good’s Candy Shop. Also, a HUGE thank you to Mr. Brieger for coming down and spending time with the FFA.
community luncheon
Community Luncheons
Mary Dumond is pictured. She won the September door prize. Once a month, September through May, Corunna Public Schools (Photos courtesy of Corunna Public Schools) welcomes the community to a 1:00pm luncheon at Corunna High School. The high school food service staff prepares a delicious meal for $3.75. Superintendent John Fattal is also in attendance and will speak about the district. There is a short program and plenty of time to visit with old and new friends. Please join us on one of the remaining dates for this school year: December 11, January 8, February 12, March 11, April 8 and May 13. There is no need to RSVP and you do not need to be a Corunna District resident to attend. If school is canceled, the luncheon will not be held.
VARSITY JACKETS
Santa’s Workshop at Elsa Meyer Santa’s Workshop will be held Tuesday, December 10th through Thursday, December 12th 2019 from 8:30am to 3:30pm at Elsa Meyer Elementary School. The school is in need of volunteers to help. Email links have been emailed from signup Genius. If you would like to be added to the email list please send email to cepto48817@gmail. com. Background checks also need to completed prior to event. We are not having vendors this year but will keep vendors in mind for any future events.
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WINTER SPORTS 7TH GRADE MS VOLLEYBALL 11/25 Home 4:15pm Linden 11/26 Away 4:15pm Kearsley 12/2 Away 4:15pm Fenton 12/9 Home 4:15pm Owosso 12/12 Home 4:15pm Lake Fenton 8TH GRADE MS VOLLEYBALL 11/25 Home 4:15pm Linden 11/26 Away 4:15pm Kearsley 12/2 Away 4:15pm Fenton 12/9 Home 4:15pm Owosso 12/12 Home 4:15pm Lake Fenton MS WRESTLING 11/26 Home 4:15pm 12/5 Away 4:15pm 12/10 Away 4:15pm
Corunna/Davison/Flushing Tri Corunna/Linden/Swartz Creek Tri Corunna/Clio/Owosso Tri
BOYS V 12/13 H 12/17 H 12/20 A
GIRLS V 12/3 A 12/10 H
BOYS & 12/7 A 12/11 A 12/18 A
BOYS V 12/14 A 12/19 A
BOYS V 12/19 A
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school news
Mother Son Dance
The Mother Son Dance is scheduled for March 3, 2020, 6-7:30pm at Corunna Middle School. The makeup date is March 10, 2019. Tickets will go on sale January 6, 2020.
Book Clubs
Students in Kelly Fry’s second grade classroom are shown participating in book clubs. The books are student chosen. The students are put into groups at their reading levels to practice reading out loud, listening to one another, summarizing what they read and responding to their reading. They are enjoying the new novels that Elsa Meyer received last year made possible through a Corunna Education Foundational grant. Students are shown with paraprofessional Amanda Kennedy. (Photos courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
Between our customers, employees and Subway owner Chris Rowe, we donate $3,000 to the Memorial Healthcare Center Cancer Center.
WE ARE PROUD TO GIVE BACK TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY. 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
cavalier championship banners
Cavalier Championship Banners Thank you for your interest in purchasing a custom printed Athletic Banner to commemorate a Cavalier Championship Team. To order a banner, either cut the form out of the paper or visit the link in the article and submit online. Upon completion of the form, cash or check should be sent to the address below in order to start your order: Corunna High School Attention Athletics 417 E. King St. Corunna, MI 48817 Please make checks payable to ‘Corunna Public Schools. Banners are $50 if you plan to pick up from Corunna High School and $65 if you need the banner mailed to your address, The banners are approximately 2’ x 3’ with grommets on each corner. To submit your order online visit: https://forms.gle/uxhMykrmo75GvDiV8
GOOD LUCK TO ALL WINTER SPORTS TEAMS!
GO CAVALIERS!
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school news Lighting Upgrade
Mark Ackley is shown changing one of the older classroom ceiling lights at Corunna Middle School. Mark has been installing new LED lights throughout the building. Last year, all lights at the high school were upgraded. The district made the decision knowing LED lights are 80% percent more efficient than traditional lighting, they have a longer lifespan, are safer, operate on very low voltage and produce virtually zero UV emissions. The best part of the new lights will be the savings on the monthly electric bill.
Technology Kindergarten students at Nellie Reed Elementary are shown in the technology classroom of Tami Basso. Students are shown practicing their fine motor skills to use the mouse and move a cursor to a target on the screen. The children were happy, having fun and were fully engaged in the learning process. As the students’ progress, they will be taught to use the tools at their disposal in smart, healthy ways that complement their growth and give them greater access to the opportunities of the digital age.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL WINTER SPORTS TEAMS!
GO CAVALIERS!
Good Luck To All Winter Sports Teams!
GO CAVALIERS! Kevin & Janena Kregger and Family
Owosso • (989) 723-5234 www.nelson-house.com
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OPENING THE DOOR TO YOUR NEXT PHASE
sports
Elizabeth Norris signed her National Letter of Intent Wednesday, of the NHS, a member of Student Council, a multi-sport All-State AthNovember 13th to play Volleyball at the University of North Dakota. lete, and a Miss Volleyball Finalist. Congratulations to Elizabeth. Elizabeth is a phenomenal Student-Athlete #1 in her class, President (Photo courtesy of Corunna Public Schools)
Powder Puff Game The Corunna Powder Puff Football games were held on Tuesday, October 22nd. The freshman and sophomore teams advanced to the championship game with wins over the junior and senior teams. In the championship game, the sophomores beat the freshman 14-8 to become the Powder Puff Champions. (Photos courtesy of Melissa Shepard)
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corunna festival of trees
Corunna Festival of Lights Parade The Corunna Festival of Lights Parade will be Friday, December 6 and will step off at 6:30pm at the corner of N. Shiawassee St. and W. State St. in Corunna. The parade will head north down N. Shiawassee St. and turn left onto W. Mack St. At the end of W. Mack St., the parade will turn left and head down N. Norton St. to W. State St. Line-up for the parade starts at 5:00pm and your entry must be in place on E. State St. before 5:30pm if you wish to be considered for a trophy. Judging starts promptly at 5:30pm. Units will be judged in one of seven categories: Best Themed, Best Use of Lights, Best Youth Group, Best Rookie (first time in parade), Best Depiction of Corunna Sesquincentennial, Spirit of Christmas (best representing what Christmas is all about) and the Director’s Award (chosen by the Parade Committee). Winners in each category will receive a trophy before the start of the parade and a $50 check from the parade sponsors, the Corunna Downtown Development Authority, during the DDA’s January meeting. Please feel free to decorate your entry any way you would like. Loud music and lots of lights are greatly encouraged.
Community Center Entertainment Saturday, Dec. 7, 6pm – Ed Crawford Ministers Gospel Music Sunday, Dec. 8, 8pm – Encore, Owosso Middle School Saturday, Dec. 14, 6pm – OHS Madrigal and Acapella Choirs Sunday, Dec. 15, 6:30pm – Ashley’s Dance Shack
Festival Information
The Dukes of Hazard cars and their drivers will be in town for their “A Hazzard Country Christ Concert” on Saturday, Dec. 7, 7pm at Corunna United Methodist Church. The cars will be in the Festival of Lights parade and after that they will be on display at the Community Center. There are 38 trees in the Community Center that are sponsored by area businesses and decorated by local school children. More animated displays have been added along the front service drive in McCurdy Park, this is with thanks to the area businesses and individuals who have donated more than $5,000 to make this happen.
26th Annual Festival of Trees Village Schedule Friday, Dec. 6, Open 7-9pm – The Sheldon Family Singers will be in the Church. Saturday, Dec. 7, Open 6-9pm – The Sheldon Family Singers will sing from 6-8pm. Sunday, Dec. 8, Open 6-9pm. Friday, Dec. 13, Open 6-9pm. Saturday, Dec. 14, Open 6-9pm – Andrew Mandley will play the piano from 6-8pm. Sunday, Dec. 15, Open 6-8:30pm – Closing for the 9pm Fireworks. In celebration of Corunna’s 2019 sesquicentennial year, there will be a fireworks display shot off the sledding hill to wrap up the Festival at 9 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15.
community news
Respite Volunteer Training Want to make a huge difference in someone’s life and make a difference in your life too? Be a Respite Volunteer. Respite Volunteer Training will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2019 from 9am to 12pm at the Respite Volunteers of Shiawassee office, 710 W. King St., Owosso. Use the parking lot entrance (north side). Snacks will be provided for potential volunteers. Volunteer Opportunities include: sharing your skills, helping a patient and caregiving family, helping in the office, helping on committees, helping with fundraisers and special projects. To register, for additional information, or if the date and time does not work for you, please contact the office: 989-725-1127 or office@respitevolunteers.org. Please visit our website at www.respitevolunteers.org. Find Respite Volunteers on Facebook.
Corunna Students Involved in Festival of Trees The following classes or staff have sponsors and are decorating a tree that will be showcased in the Community Center during the Festival fo Trees celebration. Lesley Brieger’s 4th grade class at Corunna Middle School, sponsored by Tom & Angie Snell; Sheryl Bauman’s Pre-First class at Nellie Reed, sponsored by Main Street Pizza; CMS Food Service Staff, sponsored by C2AE (Corunna’s Engineering Firm); Kim Kiesling’s 1st grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Corunna 4th of July; CHS Student Council, sponsored by Alliance For Drug Free Shiawassee; Elsa Meyer Food Service Staff, sponsored by Downtown Development Authority; Missy Boilore’s Begindergarten class at Nellie Reed, sponsored by Riverview Dental; Rebecca TerMeer’s 1st grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Heritage Acres Veterinary Services, Shari Judd’s 1st grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Community District Library Friends of Corunna Branch; Stephanie Fanko’s Kindergarten class at Nellie Reed, sponsored by Tyler Land Contracting; Lisa Burns’ Begindergarten at Nellie Reed, sponsored by Nemeth Trucking & Excavating; Cindy Richmond’s 1st grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Jackson Trucking; Lori Bowen’s 3rd grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Corunna District Library Staff in Memory of Joe DeCaire; Diane Villani, Corunna High School, sponsored by Joe & Patti Spaniola; Lisa Lambert, Corunna High School, sponsored by Tony & Kim Spaniola, Mindy Palasio’s 2nd grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Signature Augo Group; Kelly Fry’s 2nd grade class at Elsa Meyer, sponsored by Jazzercise; and Amanda Haycock’s Pre-First class at Nellie Reed, sponsored by Custom Building & Trim.
school news Learning from the Past
Ninety Corunna High School students and eight adult chaperones traveled to the Holocaust Memorial Center in Farmington Hills. They all experienced a small-group docent-led tour for 90 minutes and then were able to meet and listen to Holocaust survivor, Mrs. Rae Nachbar. Nachbar survived the Holocaust with her four siblings and parents, but her parents were murdered one year after the end of WWII by a group of thieves during immigration. Students extended their learning of the Holocaust Literature class by attending. Those who are traveling to Europe in the summer of 2020 were also invited to attend since they will be touring Central Europe and will study the Holocaust while there. (Courtesy Photos)
community news Community Education Classes (989) 743-6338 Call to register or for more details
Fire Safety
Aqua Zumba with Tracy Schultz $5 Each visit, join at any time. Corunna Public Schools’ Olmsted Pool, 400 N. Comstock St., Corunna. Mondays from 7:00-8:00pm. November 25, December 2, 9, 16. Water Aerobics and Wellness with Tracy Schultz $3 Each visit, join at any time. Corunna Public Schools’ Olmsted Pool, 400 N. Comstock St., Corunna. Wednesdays from 7:00-8:00pm. December 4, 11, 18. Zumba with Tracy Schultz Tuesdays; December 3, 10, 17. Thursdays; December 12, 19. 6:30-7:30pm. $5 Each visit, join at any time Louise Peacock Children’s Services, 485 E. McArthur St., Corunna.
Elsa Meyer Elementary first grade students learned valuable lessons about fire safety and prevention from the Corunna Caledonia Fire Department. Students were able to see the equipment used by fire personnel, practice how to direct the stream of water from a fire hose into a house window and see what it looks and sounds like if someone was trying to rescue them from possible fire danger. Students also learned the importance of having a family plan for evacuation and a place to meet up if there was a fire. These classroom visits are just one more example of our community reaching out and assisting children. The lessons give children the opportunity to see and learn in a calm state about fire safety, so they are better equipped to handle emergency situations, should they arise.
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Connection of the month
Camron Nellis
IT’S GREAT TO BE GOLD!
by Livianna Gotts The November Connection of the Month, Camron Nellis, is a teacher at Corunna Middle School.“I am currently a 6th and 7th grade math teacher and swim teacher. I currently coach middle school cross country, middle school swimming, middle school track, and boys’ varsity swimming,” said Nellis. When asked how long he had been teaching and coaching, Camron had to say, “This is my 18th full year teaching. I have been coaching swimming, whether middle school or varsity, for 19 years. Middle school cross country I have coached for 10 years and middle school track, well, I’ve lost track how long it has been.” He also mentioned his love for his job, “I love building relationships with the kids and getting them to do things they didn’t think they were capable of.” Nellis also talked about his time in school, “I am not originally from Corunna. I was born and raised in South Lansing. I graduated from Lansing Everett High school in 1995. I have loved
working in Corunna. I haven’t taught anywhere else nor have I ever thought about leaving.” In his personal life, he is a real family man. “I have been married for 21 years and have 4 children. My oldest is Henna, she is a freshman at CHS; my son, Aiden, is in 7th grade at the middle school; my other son, Ezra, is in 4th grade at the middle school; and my youngest, Asher, is in 3rd grade at Elsa Meyer. My wife just got a job at Elsa Meyer as the office manager so my whole family are now Cavaliers.” In his free time Mr. Nellis says that he likes to play sports and hang out with the family. He keeps himself busy. “I am union President currently. With all the coaching that I do and my kid’s activities, it keeps me pretty busy.” When asked why it is Great to be Gold, Nellis says, “It is Great to be Gold because of the family feel Corunna has. The community really comes together to help when it is needed. People care! I have many teachers I work with that I consider my family.”