The Lenawee Voice — August 2024

Made-in-Michigan products are a highlight of downtown gift shop » PAGE A7

Lenawee County’s 4-H youth showcase their abilities at the fair » PAGES B1-B5

THE LENAWEE VOICE

AUGUST 2024

Future of Winter Street riverfront now rests in city’s hands » PAGE A3

The present and future of public transportation in Lenawee County » PAGE A5

Husband-and-wife team opening new doors for music students » PAGE C1

‘Biggest blessing in my life’

Adrian High School grad

Saul Bosquez embraces life after amputation as a member of USA Patriots softball team

By Kate Mitchell The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — When Saul Bosquez joined the Army in 2006, it wasn’t exactly a lifelong dream. It was more like a last resort.

After graduating from Adrian High School in 2003, he went to college but it wasn’t turning out the way he’d hoped. Bosquez had worked some summer jobs in factories and didn’t think he’d fit there either, and in Lenawee County, other options for work were limited. So he enlisted, changing the course of his life forever.

Six months into his first deployment in 2007, he was hit by a roadside bomb that resulted in the loss of his left leg below the knee.

“I was an athlete, a soldier,” Bosquez said. “And I literally had my legs taken out from under me.”

After his injury, he was taken to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to recover, a process that took about a year and a half. He was fitted for a prosthetic a few months after his injury and, within six months of losing his leg, he was walking without a limp. But there were more struggles to overcome.

While losing a limb is very physically traumatic, it was the mental and emotional part that gave Bosquez the most trouble.

“Physically,” he said. “I could have been out of Walter Reed in about six months. The physical part was the easy part. Trying to figure out what’s next was harder.”

He hadn’t realized, before his injury, that he didn’t know any amputees. While Bosquez knew something like this was a possibility when he enlisted, he didn’t think he would need to live with it himself. He wasn’t sure where to look to find other people who had been through what he had gone through.

It was a struggle that concerned his loved ones, too.

“It was very traumatic because he was my ‘baby,’ even at 22 years old,” Janet Dillard, Bosquez’s mom, said. “I couldn’t get to Walter Reed fast enough because I had to see him.”

A year after he was released from the hospital, things took a turn for the better

The USA

PHOTO BY JENN R. PRICE PHOTOGRAPHY

when Bosquez got a call inviting him to try out for a slow-pitch softball team.

At first, he was skeptical. As a lifelong athlete, slow-pitch softball had never been high on his list of things to do, especially with his background in baseball. But he decided to give it a try anyway, going to a camp at the University of Arizona in 2011. That led to him joining a team made up of amputees, the majority of whom are combat veterans, and starting him on a years-long journey of traveling the country, playing softball and inspiring

the people who come out to watch the team play.

The team — USA Patriots — is the only one made up of all amputees and they play against able-bodied teams (“There just aren’t that many amputees,” said Bosquez, “and there aren’t that many who play softball”) but they incorporate their identity as amputees when playing these games too. The team invites local children who are missing limbs to serve as bat boy or bat girl for their games.

Saul Bosquez is pictured during the USA Patriots softball team’s alumni camp at Adrian College in 2022.

Patriots are a team made up entirely of athletes — mainly combat veterans — who have had a limb amputated. In addition to traveling the country playing games against able-bodied teams, the USA Patriots host two camps for kids every year.

Front-burner issues in our communities

Welcome back to The Agenda, a monthly column in which we highlight issues of importance in our community and ways you can get involved.

Battle over point-of-sale inspection ordinance continues: Although a rule requiring exterior inspections of residential properties before those properties can be sold gained the Adrian City Commission’s approval in June, the fight over the issue is not finished. Opponents of the inspection ordinance are launching a petition drive to get it overturned — details on that effort can be found on page A4 — so you can expect that topic to continue coming to the forefront.

What to do with the Fee House? At some point, the city of Adrian will need to decide what to do with the historic home of Harry and Harriet Fee, which was recently bequeathed to the city upon its most recent owner’s death. Harriet Fee, as some of our readers may already know, was the benefactor who created the Fee Estate, an endowment that helps fund Adrian’s park system.

No details to report on that yet, but it’s sure to be a topic of discussion in the near future.

Commissioner Conversations: City commissioner Bob Behnke invites anyone who would like to chat about city issues to join him on Tuesday, Aug. 13, anytime between 6 and 7 p.m., at the Adrian District Library downtown.

Help plan Adrian’s bicentennial: Adrian’s bicentennial celebration will take place in 2025, and the city is inviting citizens to join in the planning process. Committee meetings are being held in the Adrian District Library’s Community Room on the second Monday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

If you’re interested in volunteering, being a part of the planning process, or would just like to listen in, you are encouraged to attend.

ABOUT THIS NEWSPAPER

The Lenawee Voice, a locally owned monthly community newspaper, was founded in late 2023 to offer Lenawee County residents a free source of high-quality local news.

How to subscribe: The Lenawee Voice believes in the value of making local news available to everyone in our community, free of charge. The paper is delivered automatically to everyone in the 49221 zip code. If you live outside of 49221, but inside Lenawee County, you can sign up for a free subcription by going to lenaweevoice.com and clicking on “Subscribe and Support.”

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How to advertise: If you would like to join the 80-plus local businesses that advertise in the Lenawee Voice, please contact Deborah J. Comstock at publisher@lenaweevoice.com or call 517-263-3530.

Future of Winter Street riverfront now rests with city

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — After private efforts to rehabilitate downtown Adrian’s Winter Street riverfront area hit a number of stumbling blocks, the city has agreed to purchase the land in the hopes of getting things moving again.

The property is located along North Winter Street and includes the former offices of The Daily Telegram. Gannett, the Telegram’s parent company, sold its 133 N. Winter St. offices, along with the former Access Shoppers’ Guide building at 155 N. Winter St. and the former Adrian Eagles hall at 205 N. Winter St., in 2021.

City leaders say they believe the city will be in a better position than private investors to leverage grant funds to rehabilitate the land. The city hopes that the first of these will be a $500,000 Environmental Justice Impact Grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.

The purchase of the property and the application for the Environmental Justice Impact Grant were both approved at the city commission’s July 1 meeting.

“We have unique characteristics in our community that give us an advantage” when applying for funding sources like the Environmental Justice Impact Grant, Jay Marks, the director of Adrian’s Downtown Development Authority, said at that meeting.

Marks said the grant program’s funding criteria are very favorable to Adrian, with only a few cities in the state likely to rank higher.

Although local governments are eligible to apply for the program, a private owner would not be, Marks added.

Marks said the grant should provide enough money to demolish all of the buildings on the property, or at least get close to it. The city also has money available from a legislative appropriation that was included in the state budget a few years ago to help with Winter Street redevelopment.

When Gannett put the property on the auction block in 2021, it was purchased by the Adrian Development Collaborative, a group headed by Mark Murray that was formed for the purpose of rehabilitating the riverfront area. The city agreed to purchase the land from the Adrian Development Collaborative for $500,000.

City administrator Greg Elliott said that figure was agreed upon because it’s roughly equivalent to what the investors paid for those three buildings and the

“I think the majority of our citizens will appreciate the fact that they’re not going to have to look at the old Telegram building as it falls into decay.”

— City commissioner Gordon Gauss

land they sit on, plus an adjacent house, plus the survey and environmental work they put into the property.

Elliott said the hope is that once the buildings are demolished and the property cleaned up, a private developer can be enticed to building housing along the Winter Street side of the property, while the city would develop the riverfront as a public space.

“We’re the donut around the hole,” he said.

Once the purchase agreement is executed, it starts the clock on a 90-day due diligence period. If nothing the city finds during that period derails the agreement, the closing will happen after those 90 days.

The agreement did not come without criticism. Speaking during the public comment period of the July 1 meeting, Adrian resident Ken Tokarz characterized the purchase as a bailout for the investors

and compared it to Lenawee County’s failed Project Phoenix, which aimed to turn the former Tecumseh Products factory into a sports complex.

City commissioner Bob Behnke disagreed with that assessment.

“There’s a vast difference between this property and the Phoenix Project

property,” he said, adding that he believes the city is going into the Winter Street project with its eyes open.

Commissioner Gordon Gauss agreed.

“I think the majority of our citizens will appreciate the fact that they’re not going to have to look at the old Telegram building as it falls into decay,” he said.

Weeds grow along the perimeter of the former Daily Telegram office on North Winter Street, which Telegram parent company Gannett vacated in 2021. The Adrian City Commission has agreed to purchase the land along the Winter Street riverfront after the Adrian Development Collaborative hit a number of stumbling blocks in its efforts to rehabilitate the property. City leaders say they will be in a better position than a private owner to leverage grant funds for demolition and cleanup.

Push underway to repeal point-of-sale inspections

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Opponents of a recently enacted city ordinance that affects the sale of residential properties are organizing a push to have it repealed.

In June, a narrow majority of the Adrian City Commission approved an ordinance that requires any residential dwelling being sold to undergo an exterior inspection for items such as peeling paint, damaged windows, rotting wood, roofs in need of repair, or junk accumulation. The ordinance states that residences must pass the inspection in order to be sold, unless the seller agrees to put aside money for the buyer to make repairs. Supporters called it a valuable tool for reducing blight and making sure dilapidated homes get fixed up, while opponents called it needlessly burdensome and an example of government overreach.

Although the city commission has the power to enact and repeal ordinances,

IN BRIEF

Local pastor accused of sexually abusing children

ADRIAN — A local pastor was arrested July 13 and arraigned July 15 on two charges of sexually abusing children.

The charges against Michael Ronald Goble, 75, stem from alleged actions involving two boys, the most recent being from June, but police say they are investigating other possible incidents going back many years.

“Based on the totality of investigation thus far, more victims are believed to exist that have not yet been identified,” the Adrian Police Department stated in a news release. “Locations of significance may include the Maurice Spear Juvenile Campus, Church of the Good Shepherd, and his home.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact either Detective Sgt. Kevin Putnam of the Adrian Police Department, 517-264-4819 or kputnam@adrianmi.gov, or Detective Dale Sharp of the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, 517-264-5376 or dale.sharp@lenawee.mi.us.

City treasurer appointed

ADRIAN — The Adrian City Commission on July 15 approved the appointment of Jennifer Girdham as city treasurer.

Girdham had been an account clerk at City Hall since 2022. Before that, she worked in a similar capacity with Lenawee County government for more than 10 years. She replaces Cheri Verardi.

residents also have that power through the referendum process. The process begins with a petition, which must be signed by at least 1,494 registered voters who live in the city. That’s 10% of the number of registered voters in the city as of the last municipal election.

If organizers gather enough valid signatures, the city clerk will take the petition to the commission, which then will have two choices: they can either enact the petition language themselves, which in this case would mean repealing the point-of-sale inspection ordinance, or they can put it on the ballot for all voters to consider.

The signatures must be gathered within a 21-day period. Once the petitions are submitted, the city clerk has 15 days to determine if it has enough valid signatures to move forward, and if there are any problems, organizers of the petition drive have another 15 days to correct them. At that point, if the petition is determined to be valid, the

Canterbury Street residents seek closure at intersection

ADRIAN — Residents of Canterbury Street are pushing the city of Adrian to consider closing their street at its intersection at Stratford Avenue in an attempt to reduce traffic and alleviate the anticipated impact of Adrian College’s new sports dome on their neighborhood.

Canterbury Street resident Sue Allshouse told the city commission on July 15 that volunteers spent several days canvassing the neighborhood to gather their opinions, and found that 87% favored the idea of closing one end of the road to prevent it from being used as a through street.

She thanked city commissioners Bob Behnke and Gordon Gauss for their responsiveness to concerns, but expressed frustration with the overall pace of getting answers from the city.

City administrator Greg Elliott said the city is also gathering information about alternate traffic calming measures that could be implemented.

City opts not to require sidewalks in Scott Ridge

ADRIAN — After hearing from numerous residents of Scott Ridge subdivision, the Adrian City Commission has opted against requiring sidewalks to be installed in the neighborhood.

The subdivision on the northwest edge of town has been without sidewalks since it was developed in the 1990s. “That is unusual and should not have been approved at that time,” city administrator Greg Elliott explained to commissioners at their July 15 meeting.

The issue came up when residents noticed that a builder working in the subdivision was making preparations for a sidewalk. The builder had been told by the city that it would be required.

Multiple residents told the city commission they don’t want to see sidewalks added to the subdivision. They cited the loss of part of their yards and the extra burden of clearing snow from sidewalks. They also said that because the subdivision has very little traffic, there isn’t a significant safety reason for putting in sidewalks.

In light of residents’ statements that they don’t want sidewalks, Elliott said he doesn’t believe adding them to the subdivision would be a good use of city money, and commissioners agreed.

clerk will take it to the city commission. If the commission opts to put the issue before voters, that election must happen within 150 days of the meeting where the petition is presented to them.

In the case of an effort to repeal an ordinance, if organizers exceed the 10% number and gather signatures from 25% of the city’s registered voters — or 3,735 people — the ordinance in question also cannot be enforced until the matter is resolved.

A petition committee has been registered under the name “Adrian Community for the Repeal of the Point of Sale Ordinance,” and organizers of the group held an informational meeting on July 9 in the community room of the Adrian District Library.

“This is not a partisan issue,” said Carrie Smith, one of the organizers. “We have people in this room that make up all different sets of beliefs and values, and what’s so encouraging to me is that we can come together for the common good and work toward this issue that affects all of us.”

Although most of the meeting focused on the logistics of organizing a petition drive, organizers did describe their opposition to the ordinance.

“These inspections, exterior only, probably aren’t going to affect a lot of the city,” said Kasey White, a local real estate agent who is part of the committee. “It is going to have a direct impact on those that have less capability to get maintenance or any of the repairs done.”

She specifically mentioned sellers who can’t afford to make repairs, are physically unable to handle repairs themselves, or are trying to sell a home that belonged to someone who is deceased.

In addition to the goal of getting the ordinance repealed, White said, organizers want to increase civic participation and educate citizens about direct democracy.

Organizers had originally hoped to start collecting signatures in late July, but the process has been held up at the state level, making the time frame uncertain.

AUTISM GRACE OF LENAWEE HOSTS ANNUAL WALK

The fourth annual Autism Walk of Grace took place on June 22 at the Christian Family Centre Grand Pavilion and walking track. The annual event is a fundraiser for Autism Grace of Lenawee, a volunteer-run organization whose programs include organizing free community events, providing Lenawee County first responders with “Carter Kits” containing items to comfort and appropriately focus children on the autism spectrum; placing guest baskets in local restaurants, and providing classroom support supplies for teachers in Lenawee County. A new program announced at this year’s event will help families with extra expenses related to seeking therapies and adaptive supplies or equipment. For more information, go to graceoflenawee.org.

Housing Help of Lenawee plans Aug. 14 fundraiser

ADRIAN — “Rock the House,” a fundraiser for Housing Help of Lenawee, is scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, at the farmers’ market pavilion in downtown Adrian.

The event will raise money to help community members in need of housing assistance. It will include live music and a silent auction. Tickets are $25.

For more information about Housing Help of Lenawee, go to h2lenawee.org or call 517-264-0782.

Farm to Table Dinner to benefit Habitat for Humanity

ADRIAN — Habitat for Humanity’s fifth annual Farm to Table Dinner will be held on Saturday, Aug. 24, at Adrian College. Funds raised at the event will support Habitat’s mission to repair and build homes in Lenawee County. The dinner will feature local flavors in food, beverages, and talent.

Tickets are $75. more information is available at habitat-lenawee.org or by calling 517-265-6157.

‘Simply Give’ program at Meijer to benefit food pantry

ADRIAN — The St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, located at the St. Joseph’s Campus of Holy Family Parish in Adrian, is the current beneficiary of the “Simply Give” program through Meijer of Adrian. From now through Sept. 28, Meijer of Adrian will match $10 for every $10 received from customer donations. Customers can donate by purchasing a “Simply Give” card at checkout. Meijer will double-match gifts on Saturday, Aug. 17, and Saturday, Sept. 14, donating $20 for every $10 given by customers.

Adrian College partners with UT College of Law

ADRIAN — The University of Toledo College of Law and Adrian College have announced a joint degree agreement, creating a pathway for students to simultaneously earn a juris doctor from UToledo and a master of arts in criminal justice from Adrian College. The program is expected to begin enrolling students as early as this fall.

Michael Goble

A look at public transportation in Lenawee County

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — When Kate Daisher first came on board as executive director of what is now known as the Lenawee Public Transportation Authority (LPTA) in July 2021, it wasn’t long before she had to oversee the merger of Dial-A-Ride and the Lenawee Transportation Corp.

Finalized in October 2022, the merger of the two former transportation services, one which served Adrian and one the rest of Lenawee County, only made sense. For example, before the merger “you could go to Meijer on Dial-A-Ride, but if you wanted to go to Wal-Mart, which is just across the street, you’d have to take Lenawee Transportation,” Daisher said.

The Michigan Department of Transportation had been encouraging the merger, Daisher said, because “we had to do duplicate accounting, and that didn’t make sense.”

Like the separate entities it replaced, LPTA provides door-to-door service, unlike a fixed-route service that would involve people having to stand at a bus stop, wait for the bus to come along, and get off the bus only at designated stops.

The city of Adrian previously provided funding for Dial-A-Ride and Lenawee County helped fund Lenawee Transportation. Now, LPTA receives funds from both governmental entities. Other funding for the roughly $1 million budget comes from a variety of sources: the federal and state governments; partnerships with entities including the Lenawee Community Foundation, WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging, the Lenawee County Department on Aging, and Family Medical Center in Adrian; and individual riders’ insurance coverage in some cases.

Fares cover only a small percentage of the budget. Current fares are $1.50 for senior citizens and people with disabilities and $3 otherwise, with children under 1 riding for free. Exact change is required. Riders can also purchase tokens from the driver or at the LPTA office at 377 Logan St., Adrian, at a rate of $30 for 20 $1.50 tokens.

A possible countywide millage to help offset costs, improve employee wages, and potentially increase hours and services is being discussed. Such an additional source of funding “would probably allow me to have more of a coverage area around the county,” Daisher said.

LPTA currently employs 14 drivers, two full-time dispatchers, an operations manager, a mobility manager, and Daisher herself, who came to the authority after working in the athletics departments at both Adrian College and Siena Heights University, where her duties included scheduling teams’ transportation needs. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in organizational leadership from SHU.

Since the merger, LPTA has expanded and modernized its vehicle fleet, with 16 large buses that hold up to 24 people and smaller handicapped-accessible vans, two of which are brand-new.

Three new large buses sport a striking paint scheme featuring the LPTA logo. “They’re generating buzz,” Daisher said.

Daisher is committed to increasing ridership and keeping LPTA’s services accessible to anyone who needs them.

“Forming the authority was a lofty goal,” she said. “Now I want to move that forward.”

Ridership and overall miles driven have both increased since LPTA was formed. Last fiscal year, the fleet traveled 255,000 miles, up from 174,000 total for the two separate entities before the merger. Ridership went from a monthly average of 5,200 rides to 6,800.

More people seem to ride in the summer, which Daisher said surprises her because she would have expected ridership to go up when the weather is cold or snowy and people don’t want to walk. What’s not surprising to her, given that about two-thirds of the people who utilize LPTA are senior citizens or persons with disabilities (or both), is that ridership increases on the third of the month when people’s payments arrive.

Office hours are currently 6:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with buses heading out to outlying parts of the county — Tecumseh, Blissfield, Morenci, and the Rome/ Hudson area — at 6:30 a.m. and then making their way into Adrian, arriving about 8:30 a.m. Daisher said that riders needing other transportation are encouraged to call after 9 a.m. if possible, since before that “we’re busy getting people to work or school.” Last call for rides is 3:30 p.m.

Many of LPTA’s services involve nonemergency transportation to and from doctors’ appointments and hospitals.

Some insurances cover transportation to medical appointments outside the county, such as to facilities in Ann Arbor, and LPTA also has agreements with a number of agencies such as the Department on Aging and the Family Medical Center regarding transportation costs for their clients.

Residents also use LPTA to run the kind of routine errands people have to do, such as doing their shopping, picking up prescriptions, and even taking their pets to the vet. Several area facilities such as Gaslight Village, other nursing homes, and the Pathways preschool also use the buses as a shuttle service to take people on outings. Daisher said LPTA has also considered how it could add service specifically between some of the local apartment complexes and area shopping.

One area Daisher is working hard to improve is efficiency. LPTA has already taken huge steps in that area by installing dispatch software that has greatly boosted efficiency. That software “is the key to the whole thing,” she said.

Besides such technological improvements, creative solutions occasionally need to happen. Daisher herself has been known to jump into one of the minivans to help get people home.

“I hope we’re doing a better job” when it comes to getting people where they want to go on time, she said, and certainly “we don’t get nearly the [number of] complaints anymore.”

Technology may soon allow people to book rides without making a phone call to LPTA. Daisher plans to add an app so people can schedule rides and get the bus’s estimated times of arrival online. That would appeal especially to younger folks who are accustomed to doing business in ways other than talking on the phone.

Daisher said she wants all the improvements to change the traditional perception of public transportation as serving a certain clientele. “Public transportation is for all,” she said. LPTA rides can be booked by calling 517-265-4444. The authority’s website is lptami.gov.

Morenci community plans annual Back-to-School Bash

MORENCI — A number of community partners in Morenci are planning for the annual Back-toSchool Bash, a community event in downtown Morenci that brings together local organizations to provide essential school supplies to students, introduce school programs and extracurricular activities, entertain with fun games and prizes, and offer a free meal to families.

This year, the event is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 6-8 p.m.

The Back-to-School Bash began two years ago when the leadership at Seneca Community Church decided to replace their Vacation Bible School with a back-to-school event. Simultaneously, Morenci Area Schools’ food service department and Parent Teacher Organization had a similar idea. Both groups reached out to the city of Morenci independently, and the city facilitated a collaboration to create a large downtown event.

Seneca Community Church enhances the event with free games, prizes, and backpack giveaways. The Morenci

Area Schools food service department provides a free meal to all visitors, supported by donations from the community and the Kiwanis Club of Morenci.

The Kiwanis Club of Morenci is currently hosting a school supply drive to collect donations for distribution at the event. They have also received grants from Lenawee Cares and the Kiwanis Children’s Fund, as well as sponsorships

from Adrian Meijer and Consumers Energy, to help fund the event.

Previously, the Kiwanis Club collected school supplies over the summer and distributed them to unprepared students on the first day of school. Now, the Backto-School Bash allows direct contact with students, equipping them with necessary supplies well before orientation and the first day of school. Supplies are organized by grade level for Morenci Elementary

students in Morenci Bulldog cinch sacks, and middle and high school students can choose their supplies from a table.

Morenci Area Schools students, staff, and parent leaders host booths to showcase academic and extracurricular programs. The event also features a touch-a-truck experience with a Morenci school bus and vehicles from the Morenci Police and Fire Departments.

Fire department receives grant:

The Morenci Fire Department recently benefited from a generous grant program that provides essential support to firefighters nationwide.

On July 2, the department received 2,352 cans of drinking water through the Emergency Drinking Water for Wildland Firefighters program, a collaborative effort between Anheuser-Busch and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC).

Silver Creek Bridge Walk marks 30 years: This year is the 30th anniversary of Morenci’s Silver Creek Bridge Walk on Labor Day, the community’s answer to the traditional Mackinac Bridge Walk at the other end of the peninsula. For details, see story on page C6.

Kate Daisher, pictured here on a Lenawee Public Transportation Authority bus, is the LPTA’s executive director. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

An evening of family fun is in store at Morenci’s annual Back-to-School Bash, which will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 6-8 p.m. CITY OF MORENCI

LAND & WATER

IN BRIEF

Chamber event to focus on local agriculture

ADRIAN — The Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce continues its Summit Series with a session on the agriculture industry in Lenawee County. It will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, at Carpenter Farms, 2534 U.S. 223, Adrian.

The event will include Janelle Stewart, Michigan State University Extension Educator, and speakers from Carpenter Farms and Barrett’s Showplace Gardens. The cost is $30 per person for chamber members and $40 for nonmembers. Attendees are asked to register by Aug. 22 by going to greaterlenaweechamber.org.

Solar project advances in Raisin Township

RAISIN TWP. — A solar power development proposed by NextEra Energy has been given the green light by the Raisin Township Planning Commission.

According to reporting by the Tecumseh Herald, the planning commission found that NextEra’s application for a conditional use permit complied with township ordinances.

The project, called Beecher Solar, is intended to cover about 600 acres. NextEra operates solar energy projects in 27 states, including Coldwater Solar in Branch County.

New owner plans to restart operations at local ethanol facility

BLISSFIELD TWP. — A Lenawee County corn ethanol plant that has been idle for five years may soon be in business again.

The former Valero Energy facility on Silberhorn Highway in Blissfield Township has been purchased by Zeeland Farm Services Inc. and is now ZFS Riga LLC, according to Michigan Farm News, a publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau.

Michigan Farm News reported that the facility will hire up to eight employees initially and up to 45 employees if its corn processing operation restarts.

ZFS, a family-owned company based in Zeeland, has a history of purchasing shuttered ethanol facilities. It was started in 1950 and is currently owned by the sons of founder Robert Meeuwsen.

First-ever report card is issued on health of River Raisin watershed

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — A new report card, issued by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science in partnership with the River Raisin Watershed Council and several other partners, provides new clarity on the health of the River Raisin and its watershed.

Meija Knafl, outreach coordinator for the nonprofit River Raisin Watershed Council, said the Center for Environmental Science first started developing watershed report cards to study the health of the Chesapeake Bay area, then began expanding its efforts by applying the model to other environmentally important watersheds.

The River Raisin effort was part of a project, funded by the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, that studied all five watersheds that feed into the western Lake Erie basin: the River Raisin, the Detroit River, the Clinton River, the Huron River, and the River Rouge.

Those watersheds are of high interest in part because of the problems Lake Erie has with toxic algae blooms.

“Lake Erie is the shallowest of the Great Lakes and it’s what we call the most biologically productive as well,” Knafl said.

Being biologically productive may sound like it would always be a good thing, but it’s more complex than that. Because the lake is shallow, light is able to penetrate better, which can lead to excessive plant and bacterial growth, including the algae blooms that have closed numerous beaches and caused headaches for the many communities that rely on Lake Erie for safe drinking water.

The report card looked at six main topics — water quality, recreation, infrastructure, human health, the ecosystem, and the economy.

n Water quality: Overall, the River Raisin scored a “C-minus” on the report card, meaning it is in moderate condition.

One major piece of good news for the River Raisin’s water quality is its dissolved oxygen level, which scored an “A” on the report card. Dissolved oxygen is necessary for fish and other organisms to thrive, Knafl said, and a lack of dissolved oxygen can create “dead zones” and lead to fish die-offs.

However, a major area of concern is the river’s nitrogen level, which scored an “F.” Nitrogen is one of the main factors contributing to algae blooms. Interestingly, Knafl said, people often think of agricultural runoff when they think of excessive nitrogen, but “in general we’re finding that nitrogen can be put in the water in a lot of different ways.”

People fertilizing their lawns can also be a major source of nitrogen runoff, she said, adding that farmers who engage in good conservation practices are among the River Raisin Watershed Council’s most important allies in protecting the river.

Phosphorous levels were listed as moderately healthy. Knafl noted that state law bans the use of phosphorous in residential and commercial fertilizers.

One piece of advice the River Raisin Watershed Council gives to lakefront property owners, she added, is to fertilize their lawns using lake water. This takes advantage of the nutrients already present in the lakes and avoids contributing to excessive nutrients that cause problems.

Water temperature was another area where the River Raisin received a moderate grade on the report card. Water that gets too warm can experience excessive plant growth, leading to fish die-offs.

The River Raisin scored poorly on water turbidity. Turbidity is a measure of how much sediment is in the water column, and more turbidity can lead to harmful materials — that otherwise might remain trapped in sediment — being released. As an example of this,

Knafl said, the strategy that has been used in the Monroe area to keep PCBs from industrial pollution out of the water is to cover them with a layer of concrete.

n Recreation: The River Raisin watershed scored a “B” on recreation. Among other things, this measure looked at how much public access to fishing was available, as well as other recreational activities along the river.

n Infrastructure: This measure looked at things like the number of sewer overflows in the region and the percentage of the watershed that’s covered with impervious surfaces. The River Raisin watershed scored a “B.”

n Human health: Factors looked at here included presence of bacteria, which was the area of most concern, and air quality, which was where the River Raisin watershed scored the best. The overall assessment of human health in the watershed was a “C-minus.”

n Ecosystem: This measure looked at everything from bird diversity to how many protected lands are in the watershed, and the overall score was a “C.”

n Economy: The economic health of the watershed area also received a “C” ranking.

More details are available online at riverraisin.org.

The South Branch of the River Raisin is pictured where it runs through downtown Adrian.

IN BRIEF

Transcend Physical Therapy now part of 3DPT

BLISSFIELD — Local business

Three Dimensional Physical Therapy, or 3DPT, has purchased Blissfield-based Transcend Physical Therapy, and Transcend’s practice has been added to 3DPT’s family of clinics, which are now nine in number.

Transcend owners Jonny and Emily Quinton reached out to 3DPT owners Bill and Jessica Chesser when they were looking to sell their practice, and they will continue to manage the Blissfield clinic along with the rest of the former Transcend team, according to a news release from 3DPT.

More information about 3DPT is available at mi3dpt.com.

Maumee Street Taproom and Kitchen in the works

ADRIAN — Plans are underway to turn the restaurant at the corner of Main and Maumee streets in downtown Adrian into a new community gathering spot.

The site was previously the home of Rice & Barley Taphouse, and then more recently housed the togo operation of Reggie’s Tacos.

Now it’s going to house a partnership between Musgrove & Co. and Three Dudes & Dinner. Joshua Roth of Musgrove & Co. is creating a taproom that will serve local beers and small-batch cocktails, and Chris Wanke of Three Dudes will develop a menu of small-plate gourmet comfort food made from locally sourced ingredients.

Updates are being posted at facebook.com/maumee.street.

Downtown grocery OK’d to accept SNAP payments

ADRIAN — The Marks Trading Company on North Main Street announced on July 10 that it has been approved to accept EBT payments through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, making it easier for Adrian residents to access nutritious food.

Made-in-Michigan products are a mainstay of downtown gift shop

Sass Gift Shop marks its 10th anniversary this summer

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — There’s a little bit of everything at Sass Gift Shop, a downtown Adrian store that is currently celebrating its 10th year in business.

Customers who stop by the store at 114 E. Maumee St. can find a mix of gifts that include T-shirts, socks, mugs, jewelry, toys, novelty household goods, Michigan-made foods, and books by local authors.

And, yes, a little bit of sass as well.

The name is a reflection both of the store’s product lineup — quirky, often irreverent, and occasionally profane — and of owner Diane Rauser’s personality.

“It turns out that I really am sassy, and everybody knows it, and I don’t apologize for it,” she said.

Rauser has a good time keeping the store stocked with unique gift ideas, and it shows.

“It’s a fun job,” she said. “My husband thinks it’s my clubhouse.”

One major emphasis for Rauser is stocking made-in-Michigan products. Displays of Michigan-made food line the long west wall of the store, and Rauser

at Christmas.

said that’s really her bread and butter. Brands include Cherry Republic, Ferris Nut Co., and Sanders Candy.

“Most of the people that come in here will leave with something made in Michigan,” Rauser said.

Along the east wall is a display of books by Michigan authors, including mystery author J.L. Hyde, who Rauser said has developed a large Adrian following since Sass started carrying her books. Book

lovers can also find mysteries by Tecumseh author Craig A. Brockman, local history books like Charles Lindquist’s “Adrian: The City that Worked,” and the memoirs of local veterinarian Howard Pennington. Michigan, Lenawee County and Adrian-themed T-shirts are also a popular seller, and come winter, the World’s Softest Socks line is one of the store’s mainstays.

“I sold over 1,000 pairs one year,” Rauser said.

For a few Christmas seasons, Rauser experimented with running a pop-up store for men called The Men’s Room in another downtown Adrian storefront. That idea has now been incorporated into the main Sass store, with a section dedicated to gifts for men, including a variety of novelties and aprons with slogans like “Dude with the Food” and “Commander in Beef.”

Local artists have a place in the store, and there’s also a section of games — some for kids and some for adults, including offerings with offbeat titles like “Poop Bingo” and “Donner Dinner Party.” Sass is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“I believe in being open seven days a week,” Rauser said.

Sass is at 114 E. Maumee St., Adrian. For information, call 517-266-6100 or go to sassgiftshop.com.

Diane Rauser is the owner of Sass Gift Shop in downtown Adrian. Sass, which bills itself as “your Made in Michigan headquarters,” is celebrating 10 years in business.

The Men’s Room, along one wall of Sass, started out as a separate pop-up store

Irish Hills area welcomes White Birch Wedding Barn

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

WOODSTOCK TWP. — The White Birch Wedding Barn and Event Center is now open for booking weddings as well as corporate and other events.

Owners Pat and Amie Pelham are excited about doing business in the Irish Hills area, and bringing other business into the area as well. After buying the property near Cement City in 2023, construction began. Opening day was June 1, and the Pelhams said the venue has been booked every weekend since then.

The Pelhams got the idea for starting a wedding venue over 30 years ago. After raising a family and starting a design business, they started putting the wedding venue idea into action.

“I said to Pat, ‘We are craving something in our area for a wedding venue,’ ” Amie said. Pat looked at the property, and after noticing all the white birch trees in the area, Amie got the idea to call the venue the White Birch Wedding Barn — and “that was it,” she said.

The Pelhams said their goal is to help with all the details of the wedding, so the big day is “flawless.”

The White Birch Wedding Barn and Event Center is located on nine acres of land in the Irish Hills, which can be fully accessed during events. The building itself, which is approximately 8,200 square feet of indoor space, has a capacity of 260 people and can comfortable accommodate 220 with a dedicated dance floor. Additional reception space is available outside.

An open-air chapel, situated on 7,600 square feet of artificial grass, is furnished with a pergola and white padded chairs. Outdoor weddings can be moved indoors in case of bad weather.

The building features high-end designer finishes throughout, including a fireplace with four custom-designed features.

Tables and chairs are available, as well as table linens. Setup can be provided by the Pelhams as part of the wedding package, or it can be done by the couple themselves.

“I think the most beautiful part of the process, for Pat and I — we’ve had weddings every Saturday since June 1st — is to see how each bride and groom

has brought this to life in their own way,” Amie said.

A prep kitchen for catering services is on site and serving tables are included in the package. Two indoor bars, an outdoor bar area and a Bluetooth audio system are also available.

The White Barn Wedding Barn and Event Center also has a fully-furnished bridal suite, with hair and makeup stations as well as many other amenities. The grooms’ suite also features an outdoor putting green and a cornhole setup. An

indoor balcony and mezzanine area are included.

Making entering and exiting easy is a top priority, with a golf cart available to take guests to and from the parking lot.

“Our goal is that high heels and dresses never touch the dirt,” Pat said.

Tours of the venue can be scheduled for weekends and evenings to accommodate work schedules, Pat said.

White Birch Wedding Barn and Event Center is at 11000 Briggs Hwy., Cement City. For information, call 517-438-0588 or go to whitebirchweddingbarnmi.com.

New owner takes the wheel at Clinton’s Chevrolet dealership

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

CLINTON — After already having been the president and CEO of Bowman Chevrolet in Clarkston since 2011, Katie Bowman Coleman has taken on the ownership of the former Chevrolet of Clinton dealership as well. And she’s excited to have this new opportunity.

“I love the store, I love the people here, I love the community,” she said.

Bowman Coleman started working for her father, who owned the Clarkston dealership, in the early 1990s after already building a career in fashion retail. That particular fire was lit at age 15 with her first job, as a stock person at a mall Saks Fifth Avenue store. Then, after college, she went to work for Ralph Lauren Polo, a job which took her to New York City and Sydney, Australia.

After about seven years with Ralph Lauren Polo, she decided she wanted to return to Michigan and her father offered her a job at his dealership, which he had owned since 1984. Thinking she wouldn’t like it, she told her dad she’d give it a try, “and I discovered very quickly that I loved it,” she said.

One of the reasons why she did was because there are quite a few parallels between a car dealership and the fashion business, in areas such as marketing, inventory management, and finances.

But she still needed to learn all the ins and outs of the automotive business. She spent many years doing all the dealership jobs except being a service technician, “which no one would want

me to be,” she said, laughing. She also earned a master’s degree in finance and attended the automotive retail school run by the National Automobile Dealers Association.

Then in 2011, she took over the dealership from her father and guided the operation to becoming one of the top Chevy dealerships in the country, regularly ranked in the top two percent and having earned Chevrolet Dealer of the Year honors for seven consecutive years. Bowman Coleman is also a member of Chevrolet’s National Dealer Council.

The Bowman dealership “umbrella” in Clarkston also includes pre-owned vehicles and Isuzu Commercial Trucks.

Bowman Coleman is still something of a rarity in the automotive business. Only about 2 percent of all automobile dealers are women, “but I think a lot of that has to do with the demands of being a mom,” she said. When her children — now 27, 25, and 24 — were young, she could work a flexible schedule that allowed her to be home with them.

She credits her father with giving her the confidence she needed to succeed in such a male-dominated business.

“Dad was always good at helping me know I was as good as anyone else in the business,” she said.

When she was offered the opportunity to purchase the Clinton dealership this past February, “I was like, you know what? It’s time to expand,” she said. In the time since then, the dealership has expanded its inventory of both new and used vehicles and is working to become EV certified. “We want to take care of everyone’s transportation needs,” she said.

“I love the store, I love the people here, I love the community.”

And she’s eager to become a part of the Clinton community and carry on the dealership’s support of that community.

“My dad instilled a commitment to the community in me,” she said, and she’s been looking at how to continue what Chevrolet of Clinton did in that respect.

In fact, the dealership is already working on this year’s edition of one longstanding tradition — Trunk or Treat — and will use the festivities to also hold its grand-opening celebration. That will take place on October 24.

“I can’t wait,” she said. “I’m excited and I think it’s going to be a really fun event.”

Pat and Amie Pelham recently opened the White Birch Wedding Barn and Event Center in the Irish Hills. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Katie Bowman Coleman is the owner of Bowman Chevrolet, which now owns Clinton’s Chevrolet dealership.

— Katie Bowman Coleman President and CEO of Bowman Chevrolet

Adrian School of Massage settles into new location

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Adrian School of Massage has moved to a new location. As of May, the school now operates on Mill Street in Adrian, having moved from a location on Occidental Highway.

While it wasn’t easy to make the change, owner Christy Bossard said she is excited about moving to their new site.

“May the blessings of therapeutic touch be widespread and within reach” is the mission of the school, Bossard said.

Adrian School of Massage offers an 842hour program that normally takes about a year to complete. Students then take a standard exam that allows them to receive a certificate in massage therapy.

Bossard said that the program offered at Adrian School of Massage requires more for completion than many other programs.

“I like to warn students that if they are looking for the quickest, easiest way to become a massage therapist, we may not be the right program for them,” she said. “We do significantly more than what the state of Michigan requires and what’s found at most programs in our greater region.”

The extra coursework translates into higher scores on the standard exam, Bossard said. Last year, students from the Adrian School of Massage scored 23 points higher than the state average and 22 points higher than national average.

The program is typically broken into trimesters. Class size is anywhere from seven to 15 students per class. The students usually start and finish as a cohort group. The program is a combination of scheduled class time, online lectures,

and participating in a student clinic. The students are also required to receive six professional massages during the program.

An accelerated class will start on August 20 and go until May 2025. An evening course is also coming up, with classes beginning October 1. Both classes include weekday and weekend scheduling.

Bossard said Adrian School of Massage knows the importance of the working with the student’s outside schedule.

“We recognize that a lot of people go into this school as a second or third career,” she said. “We kind of have this internal joke that, like, this is what people do when they realize what they really want to do when they grow up.”

The massage therapy training costs, $10,000, which includes textbooks and a new massage table. Licensing fees at the end of the course are not included. In-house financial aid is available for students from households that make less than $75,000 annually. Payment plans up to 30 months are also available.

“We really try to make sure that the financial piece of the puzzle isn’t the obstacle that keeps somebody from doing what they are supposed to be doing to be able to enter into this field,” Bossard said.

Bossard said that, upon completing the course, students have a good chance of landing a job.

“It’s a very rapidly growing field,” she said, adding that the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 18% increase in the field over the next decade.

Adrian School of Massage is at 415 Mill St., Bldg. A. For more information, call 517-759-5040 or go to adrianschoolofmassage.org.

Medicare questions? We can help!

THERESA SHOEMAKER Health Insurance Agent – Medicare Products (517) 265-2891 | tshoema@ctyfb.com

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 5 organizations which offer 34 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all your options.

Christy Bossard, the owner and founder of Adrian School of Massage, is pictured at the school’s new location on Mill Street. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

IN BRIEF

County National announces new retail lending officer

HILLSDALE — County National Bank has announced the hiring of Teffany Dickey as Assistant Vice President — Retail Lending Officer.

Dickey comes to CNB with four years of experience in mortgage and retail loan origination and underwriting. She has a bachelor’s degree from Siena Heights University in Comprehensive Education and Childhood Development, and was an elementary school teacher prior to joining the banking industry.

Blair joins Adrian Armory and Launch Lenawee team

ADRIAN — Industrial and organizational psychologist and certified project manager Sheila Blair has joined the Adrian Armory and Launch Lenawee leadership team.

“We are excited to partner with Sheila to bring the Armory and our Launch Lenawee program to the next level,” said Mary Murray, president of the Adrian Armory board.

Blair recently moved to Lenawee County with her husband and two dogs and brings to the area a wealth of talent and expertise. She has a network of more than 400 experts in a variety of industries she has developed in her career and wants the business community to know that, going forward, Launch Lenawee is expanding its services to include consulting and training of all types.

In addition to consulting and training services, Launch Lenawee recently announced it will begin a series of monthly professional development workshops, which will be open to the entire community. The workshops will start this fall and will include subjects of interest to professionals, business owners, and the public at large.

For more information, email Blair at sheila.armory@gmail.com.

Rusty Roots opens on North Main in Adrian

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Rusty Roots, a new consignment store owned by Teresa and Rob Watts, opened on May 11 in downtown Adrian.

The Wattses are experienced small business owners from Lambertville. Their decision to start a business in downtown Adrian was based on the good things they’ve heard about the business climate here, they said.

They have owned previous businesses, including a lawn care company, a dollar store and a consignment shop similar to Rusty Roots. After taking some time off from being small business owners in 2020, they decided to take up ownership of a consignment business again.

“We loved what we did before, and we’ve always wanted to do our own thing,” Teresa said.

“We heard a lot of good things about Adrian,” she continued. “First Friday, what they do for the small businesses out here, including a lot of diverse businesses, a lot of diverse stuff, a lot of things to bring people into Adrian, like the Croswell.”

Rusty Roots offers a wide range of merchandise, such as home décor, jewelry, candles, signs, blankets, clothing and baby items. Prices range from 99 cents to a few hundred dollars.

“If you take your time and walk through the store, there’s something here for everybody,” Teresa said.

SPOTLIGHT ON

PRO MED UNIFORM

Family-owned

company does everything from medical scrubs

to varsity jackets

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Pro Med Uniform, a locally-owned family business that has operated in Adrian for 27 years, offers custom embroidered and screenprinted apparel and accessories.

The owner, Randy Palmer, works with his daughter, Rachel, and son Matt. Rachel works as the store manager, and Matt operates the machinery that produces the custom-made products.

Working with family is a big part of the success of Pro Med Uniform.

“We’re a good team,” Rachel said. “We help each other and stick together and get it done.”

Randy, the owner, describes himself as a “float.”

“I do a little bit of everything,” he said.

Pro Med Uniform offers medical scrubs from several manufacturers.

“There’s a quite a variety of the scrubs, so they can get all different kinds of brands,” Rachel said. “We have them priced very fairly.”

The scrubs can be customized to include office logos, names, or both.

Pro Med Uniform also offers a selection of medical accessories such as stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs and scissors.

In addition to medical scrubs, Pro Med Uniform carries school spirit

“We try to be different from other shops,” she continued. “We try not to mimic anybody.”

Most of the merchandise offered at Rusty Roots is locally handcrafted, and they are interested in taking consignments to add to their inventory.

“The cool thing is that about 90% of the store is from consigners,” Rob said. “It’s local artisans and crafters.”

“If you want to come in, we’re willing to talk to you and see if you’re a good fit for the store,” Teresa said.

In addition to handcrafted items, Rusty

Roots can customize T-shirts, blankets, pillows, tumblers, mugs and other items in-house by using a sublimation printing technique. Customized fabric looks different depending on the content of the fabric. Cotton gives a more vintage look, while a polyester mix looks more vibrant.

Rusty Roots is located at 109 N. Main St. in Adrian. Hours are Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The store can be reached by email at rustyroots24@gmail.com or by phone at 517-439-8104.

wear — T-shirts, hoodies, long-sleeved shirts, stadium wear, hats, blankets and umbrellas — for local schools like Adrian, Madison, Tecumseh, Sand Creek, Blissfield and Onsted.

“The good thing about our spirit wear is that you can walk right in and get it right off the shelf and walk out,” Rachel said. School spirit wear can be customized as well.

Varsity jackets can be customized on site.

“It’s a one-stop shop, because they can come in,” she continued. “You can get embroidery, you can try your jacket on, you can get your patches sewn on.

You have us right here in person to help and walk you through the process.”

The Palmers are focused on being part of the Adrian community.

“We see our customers out in the community, so we’re going to provide the best product that we can provide,” Randy said.

“We have a little bit of everything and we do a little bit of everything,” Rachel added.

Pro Med Uniform is at 937 W. Beecher St., Adrian. They can be reached at 517-264-6980, at promed49221@d-pcomm.net,

Teresa Watts recently opened Rusty Roots in downtown Adrian with her husband, Rob. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Pro Med Uniform is a family-run business. Pictured from top are owner Randy Palmer, Rachel Palmer, and Matt Palmer. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Teffany Dickey

Sheila Blair

Tropical Smoothie franchise now open in Adrian

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — The Adrian location of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, which opened on July 15 at Division Street and U.S. 223, is the third franchise owned by Jerry Bobchick with his son and business partner, Justin.

Bobchick decided to open a location in Adrian when he was in town doing some work for another company.

“I noticed the town was lacking a few things, and I thought ‘What better to add to this town than a Tropical Smoothie?’ ” he said.

The main items on the menu are the smoothies, which can be made from a combination of fruit, juice, chocolate, cappuccino, and non-fat yogurt, as well as other items.

“Of course we have smoothies, we have 30 different smoothies,” Bobchick said. “You can add supplements to [them] if you like — protein powders, vitamin C, probiotics — they all have that option.”

Other options for the smoothies include vegetables such as spinach and kale, peanut butter and almonds, protein additives, oats, chia seeds and more.

In addition to the smoothies, diners will find more on the menu when they visit Tropical Smoothie. Food items are also a big part of the menu.

“The best kept secret about Tropical Smoothie is the food,” Bobchick said. “It’s amazing.”

The menu includes wraps and sandwiches, flatbread sandwiches, quesadillas, salads and bowls. Breakfast flatbread sandwiches, wraps and quesadillas are available all day, and a selection of sides and sweets is also on the menu. A kids’ menu is also available.

The store is now hiring. Anyone interested can apply online at TropicalSmoothieFranchise.com or in person.

“We’re actively seeking experienced managers,” Bobchick said.

Tropical Smoothie is at 1376 Division St., Suite A, at the east end of the Meijer parking lot. Hours are

GLCC BUSINESS BUSINESS

Tuesday, September 24

Lenawee County Fair & Event Grounds

Learn more: GreaterLenaweeChamber.org

Be the first to see the exciting opportunities for the Lenawee County Community and enjoy a day of celebration bringing together employers and the community at the

Back to School Bash!

August 10, 2024, 12 pm – 4 pm

Join us as we showcase developments in the Align Center, including renderings of the building and walking tours, and enjoy many fun activities for the whole family:

• Food Vendors, Free to atendees while supplies last.

• Face Painter

• Balloon Man

• DJ

For tours talk to Align staff and partners.

PERSPECTIVES

EDITORIAL

Perception vs. reality

There’s a well-known phenomenon in polling: Even though crime has been falling steadily since the 1990s, with only minor interruptions in the overall trend, people always say it’s going up.

What feeds this gulf between perception and reality? Maybe it’s the media — after all, fear sells, and “if it bleeds, it leads” gets people to tune into TV newscasts. Maybe it’s politicians who know that fear will help them get votes. But whatever the reason, over and over again, polls reveal that huge majorities of Americans believe crime is on the rise, and actual numbers seem unable to make a dent in that perception.

The same thing, it turns out, is happening with the economy. The Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce recently commissioned a poll that found Michigan residents’ perceptions of the economy are starkly at odds with reality. A few examples:

n As of April 2024, the inflation rate was at 3.4%. However, barely over a quarter of survey respondents realized it, with the vast majority saying inflation was much higher, and fully a quarter believing that it was at 8% or more.

n The Dow Jones Industrial Average has been posting significant gains for the past year, and in May it hit the 40,000-point mark for the first time ever. But a majority of respondents believed stock performance was either average or worse than average. Where does the gap come from? It’s hard to pin down a single reason. As with crime, there are certainly politicians who will have an easier time getting elected if they can make us think the economy is terrible. In the media, no commentator wants to be seen as a cheerleader or a Pollyanna. There are also people who stand to profit from economic negativity: if we’re convinced that a collapse is imminent, that’s great for the guys hawking gold bullion on cable TV. But there are also real consequences. In many ways, consumer confidence is a self-fulfilling prophecy: When spending shrinks because people are afraid that disaster is right around the corner, it can actually help bring about a slowdown, while increased confidence can spur economic growth.

Of course, excessive optimism can be a problem too — witness the dot-com boom of the 1990s. But we should always make sure our perceptions are driven not by feelings or a prevailing media narrative, but by reality.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Libbi Urban’s candidacy offers much-needed change

Absentee ballots went out recently, and you may have noticed that Lenawee’s representative in the House, Republican Tim Walberg, has a Democratic challenger, Libbi Urban. Libbi is a retired union steelworker. She was a union negotiator for many years and knows how to get things done. In fact, she was the first woman to hold the office of vice-president of the United Steelworkers Union. In this position,

Letters to the Editor should be 350 words or fewer and may be emailed to letters@lenaweevoice.com. Please include your town of residence and a phone number for verification purposes.

Private property rights are more important than ‘local control’

A new law is set to take effect in Michigan that would prohibit homeowners associations from limiting installation of solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, energy efficient windows and other energy-saving improvements. It would also prevent associations from banning clotheslines.

It’s a good bill. Homeowners’ association and historical districts often have extreme rules preventing people from making improvements to their property. These associations can stop someone from putting up a wooden fence or replacing deteriorated windows.

It’s true that people choose to live in areas with existing homeowner association or historical district requirements. But state government has a role in defining the limits for what these associations can do.

Neighborhood associations and historical districts don’t actually own the property that they regulate. It’s tough to justify the severe restrictions many associations place on private homeowners on the grounds that these are for the collective interests with their members. People should certainly be free to put up clotheslines and solar panels regardless of how their neighbors feel about it.

she successfully negotiated contracts that improved benefits for women and families. Libbi is tough, smart, and fair, and has a track record of getting results.

When the Democrats controlled both houses of Congress in 2021–2023, they passed important legislation that brought an influx of federal money to state and local governments, school systems, and small businesses (American Rescue Plan Act). Other legislation during this period is now bringing expanded rural internet access and much-needed repairs to our roads, bridges, and dams (the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law). Still

The bill passed narrowly, with all Democrats in support and Republicans opposed. That’s strange for an issue that would seem to be cross-ideological. The strategy legislators use can turn bills that ought to be bipartisan into political issues. A Democratic coalition that already has votes to pass bills doesn’t need to negotiate with Republicans.

State governments have the authority to prescribe what subsidiary governments like cities and historical districts can do. They can also set limits on what organizations based on private contracts, like neighborhood associations, can do.

But the reality is that how much “local control” to allow is often in the eye of the beholder. This current legislature passed a bill allowing local governments to prohibit people from using plastic bags and is considering one stopping them from renting out their homes.

other legislation passed during this time is bringing manufacturing jobs back to the U.S., lowering prescription drug prices, and ensuring clean air and clean water for our children (the CHIPS and Science Act; the Inflation Reduction Act).

Tim Walberg voted against all of these measures.

Instead, Mr. Walberg has been working with his Republican colleagues to obstruct legislation that would bring government dollars to southeast Michigan and improve daily life for its residents. Since Republicans took control of the House in January 2023, this obstructionism has prevented any significant legislation whatsoever from

In this instance, we have Republicans voting against overriding infringement on what people want to do and Democrats praising it. “It’s your property and you should be allowed to capture your own solar energy,” Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said. Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, added, “We believe in the fundamental freedoms of people to use their property as they see fit.”

A general principle is that the government should protect private property rights and infringe only in clear cases where not doing so infringes on the rights of others, especially in areas related to public health or safety. People should be allowed to use legal products (like plastic bags), rent out their home, put up solar panels or clotheslines, and build the type of fence they want. The aesthetics of a neighborhood should not override the rights of the property owner.

Whether it is at the federal, state or local level, government control is government control. All branches should care more about the private property rights of citizens.

being passed. Instead, they’ve chosen to pursue groundless investigations, wasting your tax dollars and stoking the culture wars. Clearly they have no interest in actually governing.

Do you really want to support this kind of behavior with your vote?

People need policies, and politicians, that will move us forward, not drag us backward.

Libbi Urban stands for policies and legislation that will directly benefit Michigan families. Haven’t you had enough of obstructionism and culture wars? I certainly have.

Lee Walsh, Tecumseh

Jarrett Skorup is the vice president for marketing and communications at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a think tank that advocates for free markets and limited government.

JARRETT SKORUP

‘Hope Not Handcuffs’ aims to help people dealing with addiction

ADRIAN — Face Addiction Now, a Michigan nonprofit organization founded in 2007, is teaming up with law enforcement in Lenawee County to bring hope to people who struggle with substance use and want to find recovery.

Since launching in February 2017, FAN’s “Hope Not Handcuffs” program has compassionately connected nearly 13,000 people statewide with the resources necessary to find recovery from addiction.

The Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office and Adrian Police Department have now joined forces with FAN to bring “Hope

POLICE REPORTS

Following are reports from law enforcement agencies listed in the Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information Systems (CLEMIS) database.

ADDISON VILLAGE

July 16: Aggravated assault, 200 block of Saunders Street. July 18: Assault, 400 block of Lake Street.

ADRIAN CITY

June 21: Disorderly conduct, Erie and Tecumseh streets. Assault, 100 block of East Front Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Property damage, 1100 block of Erie Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Disorderly conduct, 800 block of East Church Street.

June 22: Assault, 1100 block of South Main Street. Sexual assault, 1300 block of Sherman Court. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 400 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

June 23: Larceny from a vehicle and burglary (residential, forced entry), 700 block of East Maple Avenue. Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 1300 block of South Main Street. Property damage, 200 block of East Church Street. Assault, 700 block of Treat Street. Assault, 600 block of South Madison Street.

June 24: Property damage, 500 block of South Winter Street. Aggravated assault, 500 block of South Winter Street. Property damage, 700 block of James Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, Main and South streets.

June 25: Property damage, 200 block of West Maumee Street. Property damage, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 500 block of South Winter Street.

June 26: Assault, 200 block of Jordan Street. Aggravated assault, 400 block of North Main Street. Sexual assault, 1200 block of Sand Creek Highway. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 400 block of Allis Street.

June 27: Assault, 700 block of East Front Street. Larceny from a yard, Tecumseh and Toledo streets.

June 28: Intimidation, 700 block of Leland Court. Retail fraud, 900 block of South Main Street. Assault, 100 block of East Maumee Street.

June 29: Assault, 100 block of East Butler Street. Larceny from a building, 1000 block of Lansing Avenue. Retail fraud, 700 block of South Main Street. Assault, 600 block of Dennis Street.

June 30: Assault, 600 block of West Beecher. Assault with intent to murder, Michigan and Center streets. Larceny, Vine Street and College Park Drive. Property damage, 100 block of Pleasant Knoll. Operating while intoxicated, 1100 block of North Main Street.

Not Handcuffs” to Lenawee County.

The idea is that anyone struggling with addiction can walk into either the sheriff’s office or the Adrian Police Department and ask for help without fearing arrest. They will be greeted with support, compassion, and respect, and one of FAN’s trained “Angels” will provide them with support and resources.

“We can’t keep doing the things that we’re doing and expect a different result,” Lenawee County Sheriff Troy Bevier said at a July 10 event launching the program in Lenawee County.

July 1: Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

July 2: Assault, 900 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

July 3: Intimidation, 300 block of Springbrook Avenue. Aggravated assault, 400 block of East Church Street. Property damage, 400 block of East Michigan Street.

July 5: Operating while intoxicated, Maple Avenue and Elm Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 500 block of Division Street. Property damage, 300 block of South McKenzie Street. Wire fraud, 700 block of Bristol Avenue. Property damage and larceny from a building, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 700 block of Leeland Court. Sexual assault, 500 block of Division Street. Assault, 1100 block of South Main Street.

July 6: Assault, 200 block of Division Street. Retail fraud, 300 block of East Beecher. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 400 block of East Butler Street. Robbery, 600 block of North Main Street.

July 7: Retail fraud, 700 block of South Main Street. Property damage, 500 block of Springbrook Avenue. Assault, 1000 block of North Broad Street. Property damage, 1000 block of North Broad Street. Assault, 300 block of Erie Street.

July 8: Arson, 800 block of Elm Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 800 block of East Church Street. Assault, larceny from a building, and burglary (residential, forced entry), 1000 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 800 block of Clinton Street.

July 9: Burglary (residential, forced entry), 100 block of East Front Street. Burglary (residential, no forced entry), 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Operating while intoxicated, Main and Hunt streets.

July 10: Larceny from a building, 900 block of James Street. Property damage, 400 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, 300 block of North McKenzie Street. Assault and disturbing the peace, 100 block of Park Place East.

July 11: Aggravated assault and burglary (residential, forced entry), 300 block of South Tecumseh Street. Illegal use of a credit card, 1100 block of South Main Street. Illegal use of a credit card, 200 block of South Scott Street. Sexual assault, 300 block of East Front Street. Property damage, 700 block of Sheffield Avenue. Assault, 400 block of Erie Street. Disorderly conduct, Church and Center streets.

July 12: Burglary (residential, forced entry), assault, and disorderly conduct, 500 block of Company Street. Larceny from a building, 200 block of East Berry Street. Property damage, 200 block of Comstock Street.

July 13: Property damage, 1100 block of East Church Street. Assault, 700 block of Frank Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of

“If somebody has an addiction problem and they need help, I don’t want them in my jail if all they have is an addiction problem,” he added.

The program is currently seeking volunteer “Angels” in Lenawee County.

“By volunteering as an Angel, people can assist fellow community members who are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction find recovery and get a fresh start on life,” program director Kim Baffo stated.

For information about how to train as a volunteer, go to hopenothandcuffs.com.

MADISON TOWNSHIP

East U.S. 223. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Operating while intoxicated, South Main and Crystal Spring Avenue.

July 14: Assault, 1400 block of Village Green Lane. Larceny from a building, 1300 block of South Main Street. Assault, 800 block of College Avenue. Assault, 300 block of East Church Street.

July 15: Sexual assault, 200 block of East Berry Street. Illegal use of credit card, 900 block of James Street. Assault, 200 block of East Berry Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Identity theft, 500 block of French Street.

July 16: Larceny from a building, 700 block of Lakeshire Trail. Larceny from a building, 600 block of North Locust Street. Illegal use of credit card, 900 block of Oak Street. Larceny from a building, 700 block of Bristol Street.

July 17: Drug possession, 300 block of East Church Street. Property damage, 1400 block of South Main Street. Assault, 1200 block of North Main Street. Larceny from a yard, 100 block of West Maumee Street. Larceny from a building, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street. Use of the telephone for harassment or threats, 1200 block of Berkshire Court.

July 18: Illegal use of credit card, 800 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 500 block of Seeley Street. Assault, 200 block of West Beecher Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 700 block of Erie Street. Larceny, 900 block of West Beecher Street.

July 19: Disorderly conduct, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 1200 block of East Maumee Street. Property damage, 800 block of North Main Street. Assault, 900 block of Comstock Street. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street.

July 20: Disturbing the peace, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Robbery, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Property damage, 800 block of East Church Street. Retail fraud, 1300 block of South Main Street. Assault, 400 block of Erie Street. Drug possession, 100 block of South Main Street.

July 21: Larceny, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Property damage and burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 900 block of West Beecher Street. Assault, 800 block of East Butler Street. Assault, 700 block of Erie Street. Aggravated assault, Main and Baker streets. Assault, 1300 block of Division Street.

July 22: Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Property damage, 1200 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a building, 800 block of East Butler Street. Assault and disorderly conduct, 700 block of East Front Street. Property damage, 1100 block of Petoskey Court.

July 23: Assault and disorderly conduct, 100 block

of Clinton Street. Larceny from a yard, 800 block of Division Street. Vehicle theft, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Property damage, 600 block of South Madison Street.

July 24: Assault, 200 block of Division Street. Identity theft, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Vehicle theft, 900 block of South Winter Street. Larceny from a yard, 400 block of Dennis Street.

July 25: Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, West Beecher Street and Entrance Drive.

ADRIAN TOWNSHIP

June 25: Assault, 3100 block of Norwood Drive.

June 27: Property damage, Bent Oak Highway and Moore Road.

July 4: Assault, 7100 block of South Adrian Highway.

July 9: Assault, 2900 block of Spielman Road.

July 15: Wire fraud, 3700 block of Moore Road.

July 23: Fraud, 6300 block of Burton Road.

BLISSFIELD TOWNSHIP

June 24: Assault, 500 block of South Jipson Street.

June 28: Identity theft, 12200 block of Stadler Road.

BRITTON VILLAGE

June 29: Assault, 300 block of East Chicago Blvd.

July 7: Assault, 100 block of Smith Street.

July 10: Vehicle theft, 300 block of North Main Street.

CAMBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

July 6: Retail fraud, 11700 block of West M-50.

July 21: Assault, 12600 block of West U.S. 12.

DEERFIELD VILLAGE

July 17: Assault, 300 block of Elm Street.

FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP

June 27: Operating while intoxicated, Treat Highway and Horton Road.

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP

July 6: Operating while intoxicated, U.S. 12 and Monagan Highway. Assault, 6400 block of West U.S. 12.

July 11: Property damage, 12900 block of Tipton Highway.

July 13: Assault, 7900 block of North Adrian Highway.

July 23: Property damage, M-50 and North Adrian Highway.

July 25: Assault, 4100 block of M-50.

HUDSON TOWNSHIP

June 22: Property damage, 16200 block of West Beecher Road.

June 30: Operating while intoxicated, Carleton Road and Posey Lake Highway.

July 23: Property damage, 16100 block of West Cadmus Road.

July 24: Property damage, 5400 block of Morey Highway.

July 25: Assault, 16600 block of Beecher Road.

June 22: Burglary (nonresidential, no forced entry), 2000 block of West Beecher Road.

June 23: Operating while intoxicated, Beecher Road and Whig Highway.

June 24: Operating while intoxicated, 1200 block of West Carleton Road.

June 28: Illegal use of a credit card, 1600 block of Naomi Street.

June 29: Assault, 2000 block of West Beecher Road.

July 2: Assault, 100 block of Storr Street. Illegal use of a credit card, 2300 block of Kenwood Drive.

July 5: Sexual assault, 2100 block of Geller Drive. Larceny, 3100 block of South Adrian Highway. Burglary of an unoccupied structure, 3100 block of South Adrian Highway.

July 6: Assault, 2100 block of East Gier Road.

July 7: Vehicle theft and property damage, 1200 block of East U.S. 223.

July 8: Illegal use of a credit card, 3300 block of Hartley Drive. Mail fraud, 6500 block of Sand Creek Highway. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

July 11: Larceny, 1200 block of West Cadmus Road.

July 14: Assault, 1100 block of West Carleton Road.

July 16: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

July 18: Retail fraud, 2500 block of South Main Street. Larceny, 3100 block of Baldwin Highway.

July 23: Larceny, 5900 block of Treat Highway.

MEDINA TOWNSHIP

June 22: Assault, 8400 block of Morey Highway.

June 30: Assault, 12300 block of Medina Road.

July 13: Property damage, 12300 block of Medina Road.

July 21: Aggravated assault, 12600 block of Medina Road.

MORENCI CITY

June 24: Larceny from a vehicle, 100 block of Clark Street.

July 5: Property damage, 300 block of East Main Street.

PALMYRA TOWNSHIP

June 21: Larceny from a building, 8700 block of East U.S. 223.

July 7: Fraud, 3300 block of Sharp Road.

July 10: Burglary (residential, forced entry), 3000 block of Manor Drive.

July 12: Burglary (nonresidential, no forced entry), 3000 block of Manor Drive.

July 25: Assault, 3400 block of East U.S. 223.

RAISIN TOWNSHIP

June 29: Operating while intoxicated, Sutton Road and Green Highway.

July 9: Property damage, 2900 block of Kerr Highway.

RIDGEWAY TOWNSHIP

June 23: Burglary (nonresidential, no forced entry), 6500 block of Centennial Road.

June 25: Assault, 7100 block of Ridge Highway.

June 28: Property damage, Ridge Highway and M-50.

July 10: Larceny, 8900 block of Dibble Road.

July 21: Assault, 7100 block of Ridge Highway.

July 22: Aggravated assault, 8900 block of Dibble Road.

RIGA TOWNSHIP

July 8: Larceny from a yard, 13400 block of East U.S. 223.

ROLLIN TOWNSHIP

July 13: Operating while intoxicated, Manitou Road and Round Lake Highway.

July 20: Sexual assault, 4200 block of Townley Highway.

ROME TOWNSHIP

July 11: Use of a telephone for harassment or threats, 9900 block of Stoddard Drive.

July 14: Property damage 7000 block of West U.S. 223.

TECUMSEH CITY

June 27: Use of a computer for harassment or threats, 1400 block of Fox Run. Disorderly conduct, 400 block of East Chicago Blvd. Larceny from a building, 100 block of North Evans Street.

June 28: Assault, 1000 block of West Chicago Blvd.

July 1: Illegal use of credit card, 300 block of West Pottawatomie.

July 2: Sexual assault, 500 block of Adrian Street.

July 6: Larceny, 700 block of Illinois Court. Assault, 200 block of South Ottawa Street.

July 8: Assault, 400 block of Adrian Street.

July 14: Operating while intoxicated, North Union and Nokomis streets. Property damage, 800 block of Stetson.

July 15: Disorderly conduct, 1400 block of West Chicago Blvd. Fraud, 500 block of North Evans Street.

July 16: Identity theft, 700 block of West Pottawatomie Street. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 500 block of East Pottawatomie Street.

July 17: Assault, 200 block of Cairns Street.

July 21: Assault, 1100 block of Willow Street.

July 24: Identity theft, 600 block of Shadow Brooke Lane.

TECUMSEH TOWNSHIP

July 1: Assault, 5200 block of Turnberry Court.

WOODSTOCK TOWNSHIP

June 27: Disorderly conduct, 13800 block of Vischer Road.

June 28: Property damage, 16500 block of West U.S. 223.

July 4: Burglary (nonresidential, no forced entry), 8800 block of North Rollin Highway.

July 6: Assault, 1000 block of Tompkins Drive.

July 7: Larceny from a vehicle, 15800 block of Lelah Lane.

July 20: Operating while intoxicated, Round Lake Highway and Vischer Road.

July 21: Assault, 4600 block of Round Lake Highway.

Lenawee County Sheriff Troy Bevier speaks at the launch of the “Hope Not Handcuffs” program on July 10. LENAWEE VOICE

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

USA Patriots from page A1

Bosquez was surprised to learn, however, just how many amputee children there were across the country and — as an amputee himself — had an idea of just how unique the experience of growing up with limb difference could be.

“They might be the only amputee in their school or town or general area,” he said.

Knowing how sports was such a core part of who he was both before his amputation and after, Bosquez wanted to be a part of helping these children and others like them embrace sports.

The team’s camp for amputee children started in 2012 and has continued every year since — with a year off because of COVID in 2020 — bringing together kids from around the country for five days of softball fun.

The program is funded entirely by donations and pays for everything for the young athletes, including transportation for them and a guardian, all lodging, all food, and the equipment necessary to play the game. If the child’s whole family wants to join, all they have to do is get to the camp’s location and the team covers the rest.

For the children, this camp is a unique experience for a few reasons. It’s frequently the first time they’ve had a chance to play a sport and they often need a lot of help from the adult players on USA Patriots to figure out how to adapt the sport to their bodies. But, even more than that, it’s an opportunity for them to fit in.

7-11 this year.

The camp has become a labor of love for Bosquez’s whole family. His wife helps out with the kids’ camp and his mother works on the alumni camp. This year’s alumni camp is in Adrian for the second time, with the alumni teams playing at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10 at Adrian College’s Nicolay Field, followed by a game between USA Patriots and Moonie’s Goonies.

USA Patriots softball games

DATE AND TIMES: Saturday, Aug. 10, with opening ceremony at 5 p.m.

LOCATION: Nicolay Field, Adrian College (off U.S. 223) MORE INFO: Alumni Camp kids will play first, followed by the adults. There will be food trucks, USA Patriots apparel for sale, and raffles to benefit the camp.

“It’s always the goal to get these kids to feel comfortable in their skin,” Bosquez said. “If you’re helping out at the camp and you have all your limbs, you’re the odd one out. Parents can tell them something left and right but, unless you talk to someone who knows what you’re going through, it doesn’t hit the same. On the outside, it’s a softball camp. But really, it’s the vehicle we use to inspire these kids and teach them to navigate the rest of their lives.”

The week always ends with the campers playing in their own game before watching USA Patriots play in an exhibition game so they can see how embracing sports can carry through for their whole lives.

It ends up being such an impactful experience, the children often end the camp asking when they can see USA Patriots and their teammates again. After a few years, the team started up an alumni camp every summer, giving previous campers a chance to come out and relive the fun annually.

“Having these kids camps mean the world to me,” Dillard, Bosquez’s mom, said. “After going to my very first one, I heard from my son and others that you have to experience it firsthand to understand what the camp does for not only the kids but for the team, too. These kids live in different states and are probably the only amputee in their school and town. But at the camp, they are all alike.”

For Bosquez, the road to playing slow-pitch softball might have been an unexpected one but it’s one that he’s thankful for.

“I treat [my amputation] as the biggest blessing in my life,” he said. “Without it, I would probably still be in the Army but my life has become infinitely better since then. I’ve had bad days but for every bad day, I’ve had 10 good things happen to me. I always try to keep that positive mindset, and baseball really helped me with that. Baseball is something where you’re going to fail seven out of 10 times and that adversity helped me adapt and overcome.

“This was just another hurdle for me to have to jump. It happened, but I’m not going to let it define me. It hasn’t stopped me from doing most of the things I wanted to do in my life.”

To donate to the USA Patriots kids’ team, visit usapatriotsathletics.org/ donatekidscamp.

Saul Bosquez — front row, third from left — is a member of the USA Patriots amputee softball team. USAPATRIOTSATHLETICS.ORG

Young athletes take part in the USA Patriots’ alumni camp in 2022 at Adrian College. The alumni camp is returning to Adrian from Aug.

PHOTO BY JENN R. PRICE PHOTOGRAPHY

4-H at the Lenawee County Fair

ADRIAN — People go to county fairs for many reasons. Some go for the rides, some for the food, some for events like tractor pulls and demolition derbies. Still others go to listen to live music, browse the merchant displays, or just walk around and take in the sights. But the living, breathing heart of any county fair is 4-H.

The largest youth development program in the country, 4-H — whose name comes from its original motto,

“head, heart, hands, and health” — dates to the early 20th century and has been established in Lenawee County since

Ethan Publiski, a 4-H teen superintendent and member of the Palmyra Future Leaders 4-H Club, helps younger students at the 4-H Outdoor Challenge demonstration. Participants demonstrated knowledge of pelts, skulls, tracks, calls and fishing lures. The participants were successful in getting a duck from the 4-H Poultry barn to respond to one of the duck calls. Anyone interested in upcoming hunting, wildlife, fishing and other outdoor classes can contact the 4-H office for classes this fall. COURTESY OF

1914. One of Lenawee County’s 52 active 4-H groups, the Britton Macon Classic Clovers, is celebrating its 100th year as a recognized club.

According to Janelle Stewart, extension educator for the Michigan State University Extension, there are currently 992 youth participating in 4-H club experiences in Lenawee County.

Every year at the Lenawee County Fair, 4-H youth showcase their skills in disciplines like animal breeding, showmanship, arts and crafts, and many more. On the following pages, the Lenawee Voice is pleased to highlight the accomplishments of many of those young people. More results will be published in our September issue.

» Please turn to page B2

AUGUST 9 - AUGUST 18

Violet Caplon of the Tipton Jets 4-H Club shows off the results of a successful day showing her rabbits at the Lenawee County Fair. COURTESY OF LENAWEE COUNTY 4-H

Exhibitors between the ages of 16 and 19 take part in Senior Beef Breeding Showmanship on July 22. The judge is evaluating how the exhibitors show their animals. LENAWEE VOICE

LENAWEE COUNTY 4-H

Sophia Kruger of the Nature Buds 4-H Club has her hummingbird sketch evaluated by a judge. COURTESY OF LENAWEE COUNTY 4-H

4-H RESULTS

The following listings were provided by Lenawee County 4-H. Categories that we were unable to fit into this section due to space limitations will be published in September.

Repeated names represent multiple honors won by the exhibitor in that category.

Please report any errors or omissions to news@lenaweevoice.com to be corrected and included in our September issue.

ARTS

Special Honors: Keegan Gray (Rowdy Wranglers), Emma Emrick (Nature Buds), Ellie Huff (Britton Macon Classic Clovers), Emma Wilt (Lenawee FFA), Kaylee Anderson (Serenity Equestrians), Olivia Kuenzer (Aggies 4-H), Virginia Barrett (Britton Macon Classic Clovers), Austyn Felver (Lenawee Shooting Stars), Virginia Barrett (Britton Macon Classic Clovers), Miles Benko (Rome Blue Ribbons), AnnMarie Scharer (Country Clovers), Shyanne Clark (Bits and Pieces).

Extra Special Honors: Dashel Hayton (Lenawee Shooting Stars), Paige Partridge (Tipton Jets), Morgan Anderson (Serenity Equestrians), Claire Smith (Tipton Jets), Claire Smith (Tipton Jets), Keegan Gray (Rowdy Wranglers), Keegan Gray (Rowdy Wranglers), Keegan Gray (Rowdy Wranglers).

BEAUTIFY THE FAIRGROUNDS

Garden Planter Contest: 1st Place, the Pitock/Klann Family; 2nd place, Lenawee Shooting Stars; 3rd Place, Aggies 4-H.

Straw Art Contest: 1st Place, Raisin Slickers 4-H Club; 2nd Place, MST Dance Center; 3rd Place, Britton Macon 4-H club.

BEEF

Junior Feeder Calf Showman: Brielle Cannon (Blissfield Hoofs and Horns).

Intermediate Feeder Calf Showman: Layne Ladd (Give It Your All).

Senior Feeder Calf Showman: Hayden Ladd (Give It Your All).

Junior Beef Showman: Brayden Shadewald (Blissfield Hoofs & Horns).

Intermediate Beef Showman: Andi Dillon (Quaker Willing Workers).

Senior Beef Showman: Abigail Willett (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Overall Champion Beef Showman: Abigail Willett (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Overall Reserve Champion Beef Showman: Andi Dillon (Quaker Willing Workers).

BEEF BREEDING

Grand Champion Angus: Lauren Roberts (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Champion Angus: Josiah Atkinson (Quaker Willing Workers).

Grand Champion Commercial/Cross: Lillana Bear (Serenity Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Commercial/Cross: Brenden Connor (Blissfield Hoofs & Horns).

Grand Champion Limousin: Grace Soltis (Give It Your All).

Grand Champion AOB: Layne Ladd (Give It Your All).

Reserve Champion AOB: Carson Garrison (Quaker Willing Workers).

Grand Champion Shorthorn: Andi Dillon (Quaker Willing Workers).

Champion Showman: Hayden Ladd (Give It Your All).

Reserve Champion Showman: Andi Dillon (Quaker Willing Workers).

Overall Supreme Champion Animal: Layne Ladd (Give It Your All).

MARKET BEEF

Grand Champion Market Animal: Andi Dillon (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Grand Champion Market Animal: Abigail Willett (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Grand Champion Feeder Calf: Gretchen Gautz (Lenawee Legends).

Reserve Grand Champion Feeder Calf: Mollee Wahl (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Grand Champion Holstein Beef: Landon Lakatos (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Grand Champion Holstein Beef: George Hillard (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

CERAMICS

Special Honors: Shyanne Clark (Bits and Pieces), Shyanne Clark (Bits and Pieces), Emmett Wright (Mighty Madison), Molly Wright (Mighty Madison), Morgan Anderson (Serenity Equestrians).

CRAFTS

Special Honors: Violet Hinde (Palmyra Future Leaders), Shyanne Clark (Bits & Pieces), Henley Milliman (Quaker Willing Workers), Luke Beagle (South Riga Go Getters), Julianna Kurtz (Lenawee Rascals), Leah Beagle (Palmyra Future Leaders), Caleb Glinski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Gretchen Spence (Tipton Jets), Ava Marks (Palmyra Future Leaders), Violet Hinde (Palmyra Future Leaders), Ava Marks (Palmyra Future Leaders), Rayne Holderman (Onsted Sweet Clovers), Hailee Barnett (Lenawee Rascals) Ellie Boring (Not So Boring), Claire Smith (Tipton Jets), Makenzie Petry (Ponies Inc.), Emily Zuvers (State Line Hustlers), Madelyn Brockway (Ponies Inc.), Cera LaRatte (Not So Boring), Sedona Echelbarger (Rome Blue Ribbons), Olivia Taylor (Palmyra Future Leaders), Wyatt Spence (Tipton Jets), Rachel Brayton (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Extra Special Honors: Gavin Gehring (Not So Boring), Zander Bailey (Lenawee Shooting Stars), Nora Shirkey (Ponies Inc.), Caleb Bailey (Country Clovers), Joycelyn Ramirez (South Riga Go Getters), Dalton Trumble (Lenawee Hoofbeats), Angel Solis (Palmyra Future Leaders), Jayleigh Williams (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

DAIRY

Junior Heifer Calf Holstein: Mary Olive Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Junior Heifer Calf Jersey: Lucas Hinson (Tipton Jets).

Intermediate Heifer Calf Holstein: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Intermediate Heifer Calf Jersey: Caleb Bailey (Country Clovers).

Summer Yearling Heifer Jersey: Leah Hinson (Tipton Jets).

Junior Heifer Yearling Jersey: Lillian Root (Medina Pioneers).

Senior Yearling Heifer Holstein: Cory Hoover (Medina Pioneers).

Junior Champion Female Jersey: Caleb Bailey (Country Clovers).

Junior Champion Female Holstein: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Junior Champion Female Jersey: Lucas Hinson (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Junior Champion Female Holstein: Paisley Racine (Tipton Jets).

Dry 3- and 4-Year-Old Cow Jersey: Natalie Dickerson (Tipton Jets).

Dry Aged Cow Jersey: Cameron Dickerson (Tipton Jets).

Senior Champion Female Jersey: Natalie Dickerson (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Senior Champion Female Jersey: Cameron Dickerson (Tipton Jets).

Grand Champion Female Holstein: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Grand Champion Female Jersey: Caleb Bailey (Country Clovers).

Reserve Grand Champion Female Holstein: Paisley Racine (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Grand Champion Female Jersey: Natalie Dickerson (Tipton Jets).

Supreme Champion Dairy Animal: Caleb Bailey (Country Clovers).

Reserve Supreme Champion Dairy Animal: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Club Herd: Tipton Jets.

Senior Showmanship: Cory Hoover (Medina Pioneers).

Intermediate Showmanship: Blake Root (Medina Pioneers).

Junior Showmanship: Paisley Racine (Tipton Jets).

Champion Showman: Cory Hoover (Medina Pioneers).

Pee Wee Showmanship: Wyat Racine (Tipton Jets).

DAIRY FEEDER

Champion Dairy Feeder Calf: Parker Manchester (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Reserve Champion Dairy Feeder Calf: Taylor Mepham (Medina Pioneers).

Junior Showman: Cheyenne Barrett (Deerfield Lucky Clovers).

Intermediate Showman: Gabriel Maurer (Britton Macon).

Senior Showman: Haeyden Borck (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Overall Champion Showman: Haeyden Borck (Lenawee Shooting Stars).

Reserve Champion Overall Showman: Cheyenne Barrett (Deerfield Lucky Clovers).

4-H RESULTS

DOGS

Obedience Sub — Novice A: 1st Place, Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers); 2nd Place, Olivia Hutchison (Dog Gone Fun); 3rd Place, Logan Wells (South Riga GoGetters).

Obedience Sub — Novice B: 1st Place, Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers); 2nd Place, Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders); 3rd Place, Taylor Iott (Dog Gone Fun).

Obedience Novice A: 1st Place, Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Obedience Novice B: 1st Place, Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers); 2nd Place, Mila Novak (Dog Gone Fun).

Agility Beginners A: 1st Place, Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers); 2nd Place, Olivia Hutchison (Dog Gone Fun), 3rd Place, Jemma Christian (Quaker Willing Workers).

Agility Beginners B: 1st Place, Mikayla Flores (Dog Gone Fun); 2nd Place, Carly Melchert (Leads and Leashes); 3rd Place, Taylor Iott (Dog Gone Fun).

Agility Intermediate A: 1st Place, Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Agility Advanced A: 1st Place, Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers).

Agility Advanced B: 1st Place, Mila Novak (Dog Gone Fun).

Grand Champion Agility: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Reserve Grand Champion Agility: Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Grand Champion Obedience: Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Grand Champion Obedience: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Handling A (8-11): 1st Place, Jemma Christian (Quaker Willing Workers); 2nd Place, Matthew Oaklief (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Handling A (14 & Over): 1st Place, Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers); 2nd Place, Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Handling B (8-11): 1st Place, Logan Wells (South Riga Go-Getters); 2nd Place, Carly Melchert (Leads and Leashes).

Handling B (12-13): 1st Place, Karoline Wilharms (Serenity Equestrians); 2nd Place, Alan Mandelka (Shooters Inc.).

Handling B (14 & Over): 1st Place, Taylor Iott (Dog Gone Fun).

Advanced Handling: 1st Place, Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders); 2nd Place, Mila Novak (Dog Gone Fun).

Rally Novice A (8-11): 1st Place, Olivia Hutchison (Dog Gone Fun); 2nd Place, Matthew Oaklief (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Rally Novice A (12-13): 1st Place, Mikayla Flores (Dog Gone Fun).

Rally Novice A (14-19): 1st Place, Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers); 2nd Place, Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Rally Novice B (8-11): 1st Place, Carly Melchert (Leads and Leashes); 2nd Place, Tino Madelka (Dog Gone Fun).

Rally Novice B (12-13): 1st Place, Alan Mandelka (Shooters Inc.).

Rally Novice B (14-19): 1st Place, Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Rally Intermediate A (14-19): 1st Place, Mila Novak (Dog Gone Fun); 2nd Place, Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders.

Top Competitor: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Grand Champion Handler: Logan Wells (South Riga Go-Getters).

Reserve Champion Handler: Taylor Iott (Dog Gone Fun).

Grand Champion Agility: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Reserve Grand Champion Agility: Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Grand Champion Obedience: Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Grand Champion Obedience: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Grand Champion Rally: Kendalyn Perry (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Grand Champion Rally: Olivia Hutchison (Dog Gone Fun).

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Special Honors: Wesley Garrison (Quaker Willing Workers), Keegan Gray (Rowdy Wranglers), Dalton Trumbles (Lenawee Hoofbeats).

Extra Special Honors: Wyatt Spence (Tipton Jets), Jobe Mitchell (Raisin Slickers), Jonathan Lolley (Raisin Slickers).

FAIR PARADE 4-H FLOAT

1st Place: Rome Blue Ribbons

2nd Place: Country Clovers

3rd Place: Quaker Willing Workers

FLORICULTURE

Special Honors: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Brynn Publiski (Tipton Jets), Wyatt Spence (Tipton Jets), Kamryn Billings (Hearts & Hooves), Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Violet Hinde (Palmyra Future Leaders), Claire Smith (Tipton Jets), Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future

Hometown Lending

Leaders), Violet Hinde (Palmyra Future Leaders), Allison Brockway (Ponies Inc.), Paige Mathis (Rome Blue Ribbons), Gretchen Spence (Tipton Jets), Avery Gawronski (Rome Blue Ribbons), Charley Marr (Rome Blue Ribbons), Abigail Goetz (South Riga Go Getters).

Extra Special Honors: Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Brynn Publiski (Tipton Jets), Violet Hinde (Palmyra Future Leaders), Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Paige Mathis (Rome Blue Ribbons), Gretchen Spence (Tipton Jets), Abigail Goetz (South Riga Go Getters).

FOODS AND NUTRITION

Special Honors: Zoe Mabbott (Britton Macon Classic Clovers), Paige Mathis (Rome Blue Ribbons), Gretchen Spence (Tipton Jets), Ellie Loar (Rome Blue Ribbons), Olivia Hutchison (Dog Gone Fun Club), Levi Kruger (Nature Buds), Carter Holtzbauer (Onsted Sweet Clovers), Katie Mitchell (Raisin Slickers), Ethan Publiski (Palmyra Future Leaders), Sophia Kruger (Nature Buds).

Extra Special Honors: Katie Mitchell (Raisin Slickers).

GOATS

Grand Champion Dairy Meat: Andrew Osgood (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Reserve Champion Dairy Meat: Mary Olive Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Grand Champion Boer Meat: Landen Clabaugh (Give It Your All).

Reserve Champion Boer Meat: Evan Gould (State Line Hustlers).

Junior Showman: Ethan Coblentz (South Riga Go-Getters).

Intermediate Showman: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Senior Showman: Claire Smith (Tipton Jets).

Overall Champion Showman: Jacob Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Grand Champion Pygmy: Levi Osgood (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Reserve Champion Pygmy: Zach Hornsby (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Grand Champion Boer: Kendall Micon (Rome Blue Ribbons).

Grand Champion Alpine: Nova Rock (Medina Pioneers).

Gleaner and County Fairs Getting together since the 1890s

Gleaner Life Insurance Society became Michigan’s rst fraternal bene t society created just for farmers in 1894. We’ve grown beyond our agricultural beginnings, but our roots remain as strong as the protective support, service and fellowship found at fairs.

20 24

Our national headquarters have been in Lenawee County since 1981. Look for us as we enjoy this year’s county fairs with families across America!

Reserve Champion Alpine: Grace Brockway (Ponies Inc.).

Grand Champion LaMancha: Rylee Coblentz (South Riga Go-Getters).

Reserve Champion LaMancha: Ethan Coblentz (South Riga Go-Getters)

Grand Champion Nubian: Abigail Brockway (Ponies Inc.).

Reserve Champion Nubian: Grace Brockway (Ponies Inc.).

Grand Champion Saanen, Toggenburg, Oberhasli: Abigail Nelson (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Grand Champion Nigerian Dwarf: Mary Olive Caplon (Tipton Jets).

Reserve Champion Nigerian Dwarf: Garrett Smith (Tipton Jets).

HORSE & PONY

Champion Registered AQHA Horse: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians). Reserve Champion Registered AQHA Horse: Abigail Martinez (Dream Riders).

Champion Grade Horse at Halter: Lilianna Bear (Serenity Riders).

Reserve Champion Grade Horse at Halter: Savannah Drugalis (Quaker Willing Workers).

Champion Fine Horse at Halter: Grace Halter (Serenity Riders).

Reserve Champion Fine Horse at Halter: Caitlin Carpenter (Dream Riders).

Champion Other Registered Horse at Halter: Miranda Parker (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Other Registered Horse at Halter: Maggie Myers (All Around Equestrians).

Champion Mini Registered Horse at Halter: Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Mini Registered Horse at Halter: Brynn Publiski (Dream Riders).

Champion Mini Grade Horse at Halter: Macie Drugalis (Quaker Willing Workers).

Reserve Champion Mini Grade Horse at Halter: Nataly Russell (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Champion Mini Horse: Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Mini Horse: Brynn Publiski (Dream Riders).

Champion Grade Pony at Halter: Abigail Nelson (Onsted Sweet Clovers).

Grand Champion Horse at Halter: Grace Halter (Serenity Equestrians).

Reserve Grand Champion Horse at Halter: Miranda Parker (Haydayz).

Grand Champion Pony at Halter: Mason Curtis (Lenawee Go-Getters).

Reserve Grand Champion Pony at Halter: Katelyn Stuck (Quaker Willing Workers).

Champion Trail Horse/Pony: Maggie Myers (All Around Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Trail Horse/Pony: Jaylee Holly (Haydayz).

Champion Mini Trail Horse: Kimberly Sharp (Cowboy U).

Reserve Champion Mini Trail Horse: Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Champion Contesting Horse: Elizabeth Justice (Tecumseh Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Contesting Horse: Henley Milliman (Quaker Willing Workers).

Champion Contesting Miniature Horse: Miranda Parker (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Miniature Horse: Natalya Russell (Haydayz) and Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Champion English Pleasure Horse/ Pony: Grace Halter (Serenity Equestrians).

Reserve Champion English Pleasure Horse/Pony: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

Champion English Equitation Horse/Pony: Abigail Martinez (Dream Riders).

Reserve Champion English Equitation Horse/Pony: Maggie Myers (All Around Equestrians).

Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony: Maggie Myers (All Around Equestrians).

Reserve Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony: Peyton Luck (Ribbon Chasers).

Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/ Pony: Caitlin Carpenter (Dream Riders).

Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/Pony: Serenity Johnson (Dream Riders).

Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony: Katie Single (Stable Stars).

Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony: Serenity Johnson (Dream Riders).

Champion Western Pleasure Horse/ Pony: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Western Pleasure Horse/Pony: Grace Halter (Serenity Equestrians).

Champion Western Equitation Horse/ Pony: Kaitlyn Single (Stable Stars).

Reserve Champion Western Equitation Horse/Pony: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

Champion Bareback Equitation Horse/ Pony: Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony: Ellie Nichols (Ribbon Chasers).

Versatility Horse/Pony: 13-19 Champion, Ellie Nichols (Onsted Sweet Clovers); 13-19 Reserve Champion, Abigail Martinez (Dream Riders); 8-12 Champion, Alison Morton (Haydayz); 8-12 Reserve Champion, Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Champion Western Pleasure Horse/ Pony: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Western Pleasure Horse/Pony: Grace Halter (Serenity Equestrians).

Champion Western Equitation Horse/ Pony: Kaitlyn Single (Stable Stars).

Reserve Champion Western Equitation Horse/Pony: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

Champion Bareback Equitation Horse/ Pony: Tory Floer (Haydayz).

Reserve Champion Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony: Ellie Nichols (Ribbon Chasers).

HORSE SHOWMANSHIP

Champion Fitting and Showing: Denea Covey (All Around Equestrians).

Reserve Champion Fitting and Showing: Paige Neill (All Around Equestrians).

4-H RESULTS

HORTICULTURE

Special Honors: Abigail Goetz (South Riga Go Getters), Ellie Loar (Rome Blue Ribbons), Levi Goetz (South Riga Go Getters), Katie Mitchell (Raisin Slickers).

Extra Special Honors: Abigail Goetz (South Riga Go Getters), Ellie Loar (Rome

MISCELLANEOUS PROJECTS

Special Honors: Noah Beagle (South Riga Go Getters), Abigail Nelson (Onsted Sweet Clovers), Rachel Brayton (Onsted Sweet Clovers), Shane Sword (Lenawee Shooting Stars), Zoe Rorick (Lenawee Shooting Stars), Lane Sellers (Palmyra

Future Leaders), Zachery Koebbe (Palmyra Future Leaders), Alex Voll (Serenity Equestrians), Brodie Pixley (Palmyra Future Leaders).

Extra Special Honors: Noah Beagle (South Riga Go Getters), Zachery Koebbe (Palmyra Future Leaders).

UP NEXT: Please pick up the September issue of The Lenawee Voice for Pedal Tractor Pull, Performing & Communication Arts, Photography, Poultry, Power, Rabbits, Science, Sewing & Needlework, Sheep, Shooting Sports, Showmanship Sweepstakes, Swine, Wood Burning, and Woodworking.

B6 | NEIGHBORS

IN MEMORY

We regret that space does not allow us to print detailed obituaries. These listings are intended as a guide to the obituaries that may be found on local funeral homes’ websites. When available, brief biographical information is provided to aid the reader in determining if they knew the deceased. To view complete information, please refer to this key:

[AM] Anderson-Marry Funeral Homes, andersonfuneralservices.com

[BVH] Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home, brownvanhemert.com

[E] Eineder Funeral Homes, einederfuneralhomes.com

[H] Handler Funeral Homes, handlerfuneralhomes.com

[N] Nelson Funeral Home carebynelsons.com

[PM] Purse Martinez Funeral Home, pursemartinez.com

[W] Wagley Funeral Homes, wagleyfuneralhomes.com

Dorothy M. Seal, 92, of Manassas, Virginia, formerly of Tecumseh, died on June 4. She enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed in Texas. Later she worked as an executive secretary with Ford Motor Company. She was part of a professional ice skating team in her younger years. She won many awards with her American Eskimo show dog. [H]

Andy Lee Case, 65, of Adrian died on June 15. During his career he worked for a railroad company, Cargotainer, and Collins Auto Body. After retirement he continued to work on cars. [BVH]

Brian Royce Holder, 42, of Onsted died on June 15. He was employed for many years at TWB Company in Monroe, and most recently installed automotive lifts for Allied Incorporated. He loved the woods and was an avid gun collector who enjoyed cooking and playing cards. [AM]

Janina Baran, 96, of Brighton died on June 16. She was a survivor of the World War II work camps in Germany and emigrated to the United States in 1951. She was a faithful member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Tecumseh. She worked in facilities management in the banking system. [H] MacKenzie Alexis Brown, 26, of Raisin Township died on June 16. After high school she worked as a caregiver in the health care industry. [H]

Nancy Jane (Waldron) Hutchison, 86, of Adrian died on June 17. She loved music and both played in and started several bands, singing and playing banjo, guitar, trumpet and piano. [W]

James D. Sayre, 78, of Adrian died on June 17. He was known for his witty humor, generous spirit and wise counsel. [AM]

Nelson Jay Dean Jr., 86, of Blissfield died on June 18. He enjoyed riding horses and participated in the Shore-to-Shore trail ride for a few years. He was a talented musician who loved playing the piano, guitar, violin, harmonica, accordion, and organ and wrote his own songs. [AM]

The Rev. Peter David Mackey, 83, of Adrian died on June 19. He served in parishes in Ohio and Michigan and also in the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania where he also taught through the School of Christian Studies in Harrisburg. He had a passion for the theater. [W]

Christopher Bolt, 41, of Saline died on June 20. A 2001 Tecumseh High School graduate, he was a passionate auto racing enthusiast and a member of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). He loved the outdoors and earned a double Eagle Scout. [PM] Valerie Ann Hehir, 64, of Manitou Beach died on June 20. She was a hairdresser for over 42 years at her home salon and also at retirement homes in the Jackson area. She was a master gardener and enjoyed camping and canoe trips. [BVH]

Larry Everette McKenzie, 65, of Adrian died on June 20. He was a graduate of Adrian High School. He enjoyed helping others and often volunteered for several school lunch programs and helping students with their studies. He valued his alone time and liked working on cars. [AM]

Marie Ann Shortt, 88, of Byron Center, formerly of Addison and the Devils Lake area, died on June 20. She worked as a bookkeeper at Gentner Trucking and was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Addison Fire Department. She enjoyed cleaning, puzzles, crossword books, and reading. [BVH]

Paul Woodside, 97, of Adrian died on June 20. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946-1947 as a tank crewman. He was a firefighter for the city of Ypsilanti for 30 years. After retirement he and his family restored houses in the Ypsilanti area. He was a Mason for over 50 years and was affiliated with Phoenix Lodge 13. [W]

Steve R. Lindsey, 71, of Adrian died on June 21. He is survived by three siblings, a cousin, and several nieces and nephews. [AM]

Cole Anthony Raper, 18, of Hudson died on June 21. He was a recent graduate of Sand Creek High School. He loved dirt bikes, motorcycles, hunting, fishing, and dogs. He was very protective of his little brother and grandmother. [AM]

Michael E. Kossey, 74, of Tecumseh died on June 22. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1971 as a 2nd Lt. Artillery Officer and served for 22 years. After retirement he was the head of Manpower & Reserve Affairs, working on Plans, Policies, and Operations for the Secretary of the Navy at the Pentagon. He grew up working on the family farm and also worked third shift as floor supervisor at the Delphi Plant in Adrian. [H]

Jeanne Louise Marrison, 90, of Tecumseh died on June 22. She worked for Double A Products in Manchester for over 20 years as a secretary. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star #311 in Saline and the Manchester American Legion Auxiliary. [H]

Charlene A. DeMots, 77, of Adrian died on June 23. She had a long and rewarding career in home construction, land development, and real estate. [W]

Rosemarie Helen Dickerson, 84, of Addison died on June 23. She was the owner of Pet Hotel in Tipton and retired from Meijer as a cashier. [BVH]

John Joseph Kubicki, 75, of Hudson died on June 23. In 1970 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and worked as a Radio Relay Mechanic; after spending time as a civilian he later reenlisted. [BVH]

Dolores Mae (Dusseau) Weasel, 97, of Leesburg died on June 24. She worked at the Deerfield Telephone Company for many years. She graduated from the Adrian Beauty Academy and worked for Eva’s Beauty Shop in Tecumseh. She enjoyed playing cards and making coffee cakes for neighbors. [W]

Barbara Jean Jones, 86, of Adrian died on June 25. She enjoyed spending time with her family and was a member of the West Adrian Community Church. [AM]

David J. Pell, 79, of Blissfield died on June 25. After college graduation he was employed at Ford Motor Company and later became a self-employed entrepreneur. He and his wife owned several businesses in the Blissfield area including Wood’s Clothing and Freshens Yogurt. [W]

Lee T. Riley, 86, of Hudson died on June 25. After high school he enlisted in the Army National Guard. He was the owner of Addison Lumber, retiring in 2020. He enjoyed sports, hunting, antiquing and gardening. [BVH]

James “Jim” Underwood, 71, of Addison died on June 25. He was employed at Peerless Gear and Hydro Aluminum. He loved racing sprint cars and modifieds at the Butler and Manchester Racetracks. He enjoyed working on all types of cars and vehicles and watching old westerns. [BVH]

Shirley Fritz, 78, of Adrian died on June 26. She worked as a receptionist and communications clerk at Adrian Training School from 1973 until the closure of the facility in 2009. [AM]

James Edward Sweeny, 90, of Manchester died on June 26. He was employed as an electronics engineer and retired as the owner of Torrence Sounds in 1999. [H]

Sandra Kay Upcott, 75, of Morenci died on June 26. She was very involved in her church and made everyone feel welcome. Any project she took on was not complete until it was done with perfection. [AM]

William “Bill” Sherman DeLong, 54, of Adrian died on June 27. He was a 1988 graduate of Sand Creek High School. He began his working career at Maple City

Glass, but the majority of his career was as a corrections officer at the Gus Harrison Correctional Facility in Adrian, retiring in 2021. He was a member of the Fairfield Township Fire Department and an EMT with Lenawee County Ambulance. [AM]

Richard L. Dockstader, 62, of Adrian died on June 27. He was a U.S. Army veteran who loved wildlife, fishing, and hunting. He was artistic and expressed himself in drawings and painting. [H]

Allyn L. Goodlock, 75, of Adrian died on June 27. He was a mechanic for 40 years, earning a certificate of master mechanic, and sold tools for Cornwell, retiring in 2016. He had many hobbies including go-cart racing, racing late model cars at Oakshade Raceway, and beekeeping. [AM]

Gregory Wayne Stevens, 61, of Adrian died on June 27. He enjoyed golf, bike riding, and visiting with his grandchildren. [AM]

Merelin L. Young, 76, of Tecumseh died on June 27. He was a 1966 graduate of Tecumseh High School. He worked for Adrian Mechanical Services, retiring in 2011. He was a farmer and enjoyed attending car shows with his 1966 Mercury Monterey. [PM]

Beatrice Gomez, 72, of Adrian died on June 28. She was employed for over 20 years as a chemical operator at Wacker Chemical, and spent her final eight years of employment in the deli at the former Foodtown supermarket in Adrian. [AM]

Patricia Charmaine Gray, 49, of Adrian died on June 28. While raising five children, she earned multiple degrees, worked full time and was active in her community. She mentored many students through her work at Adrian College and Siena Heights University, helped many women during her time at Catherine Cobb Domestic Violence Shelter, and using her fluency in Spanish, helped migrant workers and their families throughout the state access resources. [AM]

Glenn Franklin Knotts, 76, of Tecumseh died on June 28. He was in the Merchant Marine from 1966-67, delivering supplies to Vietnam. From 1968-70 he served in the Army in the 101st Airborne Division. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Service Stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. [H]

Naomi Jean Dunbar, 96, of Vermont died on June 29. She was an active member of the Madison Schools Mom and Dad’s club for 26 years, and the Madison Township Fire Department’s Firette Organization. [AM]

Delores Ann Loveland, 76, of Adrian died on June 29. She was employed for over 25 years for Culligan Water in Adrian. She enjoyed going to Firekeepers Casino, gardening, and taking road trip adventures around the state. [AM]

Linda Carolyn Phenicie, 79, of Adrian died on June 29. She had a 25-year career as a receptionist at Belltone Hearing Aid Center. She was an active member of the Early Birds bowling league. [AM]

Marjorie J. Robertson, 86, of Morenci died on June 29. She was a longtime member of Faith Lutheran Church in Metamora, as well as Morenci Bible Fellowship. She enjoyed cooking, cleaning, canning, and freezing her husband’s fresh garden produce. [AM]

Carol Sue Suchman, 66, of Adrian died on June 29. She was employed for over 12 years at Autokiniton of Blissfield and most recently worked at the Dollar Tree in Adrian. She enjoyed sewing garments, crafting ornaments and candles, making diamond art, and decorating for every holiday. [AM]

Donald Glenn Bailey, 100, of Hudson, Florida, formerly of Adrian, died on June 30. At the age of 7 he began singing at numerous Adrian functions including at the Lenawee County Fair and Croswell Opera House. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and played in the Army Air Force band. He performed with big bands in the 1940s, including with Jimmy Dorsey. [W]

Nancy Elaine Cruz , 80, of Britton died on June 30. She was a 1957 Adrian High School graduate. After graduation she began her career at Ford Motor Company in Saline. [AM]

Mary Jo Carr, 64, of Hudson died on July 1. She was a graduate of Hudson High School. She loved spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved dog. [AM]

Marvin Henry Herr, 81, of Hillsdale died on July 3. He was employed as an electrician for 40 years, working for Local 8, IBEW. He enjoyed farming and gold mining. [BVH]

Judith F. Kopke, 76, died on July 3. After graduating from Brighton High School she worked in the public school system performing clerical office work. [AM]

Patti K. Miller, 72, of Tecumseh died on July 3. She held a doctorate in English Literature from the University of WisconsinMadison and was a longtime employee of the Ann Arbor District Library. [W]

Randy Fay Six, 69, of Brooklyn died on July 3. He was a graduate of Onsted High School. After retirement as a civil engineer at Nellis Air Force Base he moved back to Onsted. He loved hunting, fishing, and golfing. [AM]

LolaLee Katherine Reau, 99, of Blissfield died on July 4. She enjoyed walking with her friends, reading, knitting, crocheting, playing games, and working puzzles. [W]

Arlan Atwell Murray, 83, of Morenci died on July 4. After graduating from Morenci High School in 1960, he worked on the family farm. As a young adult, he left farming and began working at Eklund Broach in Morenci as a surface grinder, which he did until retirement. [AM]

Stephen Webster, 75, of Seneca Township died on July 5. He worked as a long and short haul truck driver, and spent the last 10 years driving for Ace Hardware. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and motorcycles. [AM]

Marjorie E. Kujat, 92, of died on July 6. After high school graduation she started working for Blue Cross Blue Shield as a supervisor. [AM]

Leo “Brian” Clark, 76, of Blissfield died on July 7. After high school, he went on many adventures ultimately leading him to Western Canada where he traveled through the Rocky Mountains on an open boxcar transporting horses. He trained and raced horses all over the U.S. and Canada. He worked at Hamblin Co. in Tecumseh and at the University of Michigan in the printing services department. [AM]

Zoe Ann Maher, 88, of Tecumseh died on July 7. She was a 1958 Michigan State graduate who loved traveling, going to the casino, reading, music, and attending Big Band concerts at the Tecumseh Center for the Arts. [H]

Koreen Sage, 60, of Adrian died on July 7. She was employed at Saline Electronics building circuit boards, doing precise soldering. She enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and growing flowers. [AM]

Larry Dean Smith, 82, of Manitou Beach died on July 7. He is survived by his wife, four children, 13 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. [PM]

James T. Hillsburg, 82, of Adrian died on July 8. He served as an inspector and engineer for the Wayne County Road Commission. He enjoyed traveling in his motor home and working on cars. [H]

John T. Murphy, 82, died on July 8. After college he served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He was a decorated pilot and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross on each deployment. He then flew for the Air National Guard for 25 years, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel and commander of the 112th Fighter Squadron in Toledo. [H] Garrison Lee Bowers, 45, of Adrian died on July 9. He was a truck driver who made a career out of long hauls. He was an ordained minister and his faith brought him comfort in life. [W] L.G. Frederick, 78, of Fayette, Alabama, formerly of Adrian, died on July 9. He was a graduate of Adrian High School and served in the U.S. Armed Forces. He was employed at Ford Motor Company for 31 years and owned and operated Frederick’s Lawn Care. [AM] Carol Jodis, 86, of Adrian died on July 9. Her many years of service to the Adrian community included time spent as a Croswell Opera House board member and as the theater’s executive director.

John E. Shaffer, 82, of Adrian died on July 9. He was employed by General Motors and farmed throughout his life. He served in the U.S. Air Force, ending his service as an Airman First Class. He enjoyed farming and hunting, and taught hunter safety. [AM]

Gerald “Mr. Stover” Eaton, 91, of Tecumseh died on July 10. He was a member of the U.S. Air Reserve in Grosse Ile from 1951-53. He worked many jobs, wrenching and fabricating. He was employed for over 20 years at Double A Products in Manchester as a maintenance superintendent. [H] Amber Rose Eggleston, 37, of Eastpointe, formerly of Clinton, died on July 10. She was a 2005 Clinton High School graduate. [H]

Terry D. Warner, 73, of Adrian died on July 10. He owned and operated Lenawee Transmission for 34 years before retiring. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed archery and hunting. He was also a skilled builder who built a log cabin using the trees he harvested from his property. [W]

Theresa Marie Britton, 47, of Britton died on July 11. She worked for State Farm as an insurance agent and then for many years for General Motors at Lansing Grand River. She was a promoter of the local music scene. [H]

Sharon Ann Nix, 81, of Tecumseh died on July 11. She attended Adrian College and she and her husband moved to Tecumseh in 1972. As a coach’s wife, she was a fixture in the stands, at football camps and Tecumseh athletic dinners. She taught high school Spanish for two decades in Dundee and was active in the local Democratic Party. [H]

Clyde Maxwell Schwartz, 54, of Adrian died on July 11. An Adrian High School graduate, he was a utility worker for Adrian College. [AM]

Danny Matthew Evans, 75, of Adrian died on July 12. He was employed at Ford Motor Company in Rawsonville. He enjoyed playing cards at the senior center, cars, and watching TV. [AM]

Billie Joe Morgan, 76, of Hudson died on July 12. He worked for nearly 20 years at the former Dura Corporation, and served as a pastor at the Tecumseh Church of God for six years in the 1990s. [AM]

Geraldine Bernice Warnick, 99, of Grass Lake died on July 12. She worked as a church camp director and managed two camps with her husband. [PM]

Barbara Fae Grigg, 67, of Adrian died on July 13. She worked for 32 years as a purchasing agent for the former Venchurs Manufacturing, retiring in 2019. She was a longtime member of the Adrian Eagles, most recently serving as vice president of the Women’s Auxiliary. [AM]

Frances A. Hunter, 76, of Adrian died on July 13. She attended Adrian Catholic Central and graduated from Adrian High School in 1966 before pursuing a degree in nursing from the University of Michigan. Her nursing career continued until her retirement from Delphi Motors in 2012. [AM]

Phillip Ralph James, 69, of Gaylord, formerly of Adrian, died on July 13. A 1973 graduate of Adrian High School, he worked as a truck driver for several years before building a successful concrete construction company. [N]

Frances Ellen Lewis, 82, of Adrian died on July 13. She was an active member of several organizations, including the Original Dulcimer Players Club of Michigan and the Northwest Michigan Tractor and Engine Club. Together with her husband, she was the longtime host of the popular Palmyra Old Time Music Jam Sessions. She helped raise funds for the American Heart Association, Relay for Life, and Lenawee Humane Society. [AM]

Hunter Scott Smith, 24, of Addison died on July 13. A 2018 graduate of Addison High School, he attended Northwood University and Jackson College. He was a member of the Addison Gun Club and Michigan Elk Foundation. [BVH]

Joan Barbara Block, 91, of Brooklyn died on July 14. She was a deacon of the Presbyterian Church, was part of the Brooklyn Newcomers Club, and volunteered at Dahlem’s Environmental Center. She enjoyed reading, sewing, painting, cooking, symphonies, and operas. [E]

Betty Jean Bowman, 95, of Blissfield died on July 14. She taught in two different one-room schoolhouses during her teaching career. She was a talented seamstress and lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. [W]

Carlo Roger Mobley, 74, of Tecumseh died on July 14. He was a graduate of Tecumseh High School and served in Vietnam as a U.S. Army Police Officer. He worked at the Milan federal prison and for Tecumseh Public Schools. He was a coach and softball instructor at Michigan Sports Academy in Saline. [PM]

Laurie Lynn Sword, 66, of Hudson died on July 14. She was employed as an accountant at American Copper and Brass in the accounts receivable department. She was a member of the Pittsford Jaycees. [AM]

Clifford “Cliff” A. Wilkins, 86, of Brooklyn died on July 14. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked for many years as a linesman for Consumers Energy. He was a scoutmaster in Brooklyn and a member of the Brooklyn school board. [BVH]

David Lloyd Dunning 71, of Hudson died on July 15 at Lynwood Manor. A Waldron High School graduate, he worked for Bose Manufacturing as a materials handler. [BVH]

Thomas Michael Griffith, 60, of Tecumseh died on July 15. He was employed at Tecumseh Products as a draftsman and later as a self employed CAD designer. He was an active member of St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus Council #9937, where he was currently serving as Deputy Grand Knight. [AM]

Brayden Jacksdon, 10, of Adrian died on July 15. He was a quiet, sweet, calm and resilient child. He loved Spider-Man, Shrek, and listening to country music. [AM]

Janet Reisinger Bradley, 77, of Brooklyn died on July 16. She worked for 15 years at Kramer Triad and 25 years at the University of Michigan before retirement. After retiring, she took up employment at the Brooklyn Super 8 to fill her need to be with people. She was a member of Unity Church of Jackson. [E]

Heidi Elizabeth Bumgarner, 43, died on July 16. She worked at Bixby Hospital for many years and then at the Cervical and Breast Cancer Project in Fulton County. [AM]

Yolonda “Loni” J. Fether, 86, of Adrian died on July 16. She attended beauty school in Jackson after high school graduation and had a career as a beautician. She was a member of the Turning Point Church in Adrian and was a volunteer at Bixby Hospital for over 25 years. [W]

James J. Sheldon, 74, died on July 17. He was born in Adrian and graduated from Blissfield High School. He earned degrees in journalism from Michigan State University. In addition to farming, he worked at Blissfield Manufacturing and the Adrian Training School. He was a member of Light of Christ Parish, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Blissfield. [W]

Carey Jane Marsh, 75, of Clinton died on July 19. She worked in the Paddock Elementary School and Symons Elementary School libraries in the Milan school district. [H]

Larry “Butch” Fish, 81 died on July 20. A graduate of Cement City High School, he served in the Army and Army Reserves. He drove semi trucks for more than 40 years. He was a member of the Clark Lake Lions Club for more than 50 years. [E]

Donald “Bruce” Loar of Blissfield died on July 20. Born in Adrian, he was an Army veteran who met with his service friends every Thursday morning at Beckey’s Kountry Kitchen. He was a member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Blissfield. [W]

Brian Melvin Evenson, 80, died on July 21. A Hudson High School graduate, he was a teacher for more than 40 years, most of them spent at Hudson. He coached football, basketball, wrestling, cross country and track and field. He also taught at Madison Heights, Adrian and Waldron, and at Siena Heights University, Jackson Community College and Michigan State University. [BVH]

Laura D. Halberstadt, 71, of Tecumseh died on July 23. A 1971 graduate of Tecumseh High School, she attended Jackson Business College and worked 36 years for the U.S. Coast Guard. She was a Girl Scout leader. [PM]

Marjorie Monagin, 86, of Tecumseh died on July 23. A graduate of Britton Macon Area Schools, she was a teacher and business owner, operating Cardinal Metal in Dundee and Ridge Roost, a floral business. [PM]

Victoria Ann Rozelle, 111, of Hudson died on July 23 at Lenawee Medical Care Facility. She was born in Warsaw, Poland. She attended St. Stanislaus Catholic School in Jackson and worked at Meyers Department Store in Hudson. [BVH]

William C. “Bill” Powell, 75, of Palmyra died on July 25. A 1967 Adrian High School graduate and Marine Corps veteran, he worked for Blissfield Manufacturing for approximately 50 years, retiring in 2011. He was active in the UAW, serving on the arbitration team, treasurer, and a delegate at conventions. [AM]

Roy Delos Wilson II, 71, of Adrian died on July 25. A 1971 Sand Creek graduate, he was employed throughout his life at various businesses in Adrian, including the former Hill’s Department Store and Wilson’s Auto Parts, with most of his career spent as an assemblyman at Dura Corp. He was a member of Christ the Redeemer Lutheran Church until its closure, and after that was involved with the Salvation Army Corps in Adrian. [AM]

‘Newsies’ leaps onto the Croswell Opera House stage » PAGE C3

Adrian resident Carlos Tobar traces his artistic journey in new exhibit » PAGE C2

ARTS & LIVING

Morenci marks 30 years of Silver Creek Bridge Walk this Labor Day » PAGE C6

THE LENAWEE VOICE THIRD SECTION AUGUST 2024

A musical marriage

Collaborators on stage and partners in life, Kristin and Phillip Clark are creating new opportunities for Adrian College music students

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Music brought Phillip and Kristin Clark together in a professional capacity. And then, it created the personal connection leading to their marriage.

Kristin, now an associate professor of music at Adrian College and chair of the Performing Arts Department, began teaching at the college in 2011, while Phil, who’s now an assistant professor and director of choir and orchestra as well as the college’s organist, arrived in 2013. The summer after his first year, he messaged her about a collaboration … and got no response.

Eventually, however, the pair did indeed perform together, and not long after that they began dating. And, a year after that, they were married, with each of them bringing children from their previous marriages into their blended family.

The Clarks took rather different paths to where they are now in the music world.

Kristin, a mezzo-soprano who was born in Ypsilanti to parents who both taught high school music and theater, didn’t take voice lessons as a child, and in fact was something of a late bloomer in the field. She went to the University of Michigan not really knowing what she wanted to do with her life — law, perhaps, or psychology.

“I wasn’t keyed into the fact that my voice was anything special,” she said.

Then she got into the university choir, and one day the conductor pulled her aside to talk to her only to discover that she wasn’t a music major. With such an affirmation of her vocal abilities,

See CLARKS, page C7

Phillip and Kristin Clark are pictured in Adrian College’s Spencer Hall. Outside of their jobs on the college faculty, she has performed in concerts and operas throughout the U.S. and internationally; he is active both as a soloist and as an accompanist. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

Exhibit traces the artistic journey of Carlos Tobar

ADRIAN — Adrian College’s Hickman Gallery is featuring a new exhibition, “Carlos Tobar: Visual Narratives,” from Aug. 5 to Sept. 18.

Tobar, a resident of Adrian since 1985, is largely a self-taught artist who has developed a unique and expressive style through explorations in various media including stone, oils, mosaic, and pen and ink. He is also a retired graphic designer and commercial offset printer.

An opening reception will be held on Friday, Aug. 30, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where attendees will have the chance to meet Tobar and discuss his work. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.

ART EXHIBITS

Tobar’s artistic journey began in his native Ecuador, where he studied at the Central University of Quito. He also later studied at the University of Toronto. His work is characterized by its use of exaggeration, vibrant color, and deep emotion, often inspired by simple observations of daily life, memories from his childhood in South America, and expressive reactions to current events.

Travis Erxleben, chair of the Adrian College Department of Art and Design and director of Hickman Gallery, said the exhibit explores the evolution of Tobar’s artistry, from his early works to his most recent creations.

“The exhibition highlights Tobar’s ability to convey narratives through art, offering a visual storytelling experience that resonates with a wide audience,” Erxleben said. “We are honored to showcase his incredible talent and contributions to our local art community. This retrospective exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the depth and breadth of his work, as well as the personal and cultural narratives that inspire him.”

The Hickman Gallery is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by appointment. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

For more information about the exhibit, email terxleben@adrian.edu.

“Jewelry and Objects” at the Adrian Center for the Arts: The Michigan Silversmiths Guild’s 2024 Membership Exhibition is on display through Aug. 29. Founded in 1948, the Michigan Silversmiths Guild is a community of craftspersons dedicated to the fields of metalsmithing and jewelry.

The Adrian Center for the Arts gallery is open from Thursday through Sunday, from 1 to 4 p.m. More information is at adriancenterforthearts.org.

“The Sudden Flows of Creativity” at Flatlanders: Flatlanders Art Galleries in Blissfield presents a solo exhibition by abstract expressionist Dawud Shabazz through Aug. 31.

A self-taught artist born in Detroit, Shabazz has displayed his work in the Toledo Museum of Art as well as the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

Admission is free. Flatlanders is at 11993 East U.S. 223, Blissfield. Hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Immigrants,” a 2009 oil-on-canvas painting by Carlos Tobar, is part of his current exhibit at Adrian College.

AUGUST

THINGS TO DO IN LENAWEE COUNTY

To submit events for inclusion in this calendar, please email news@lenaweevoice.com by the 15th of the month before the event.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7

Patriotic Card Making Class

Tecumseh District Library, 1 p.m.

Learn to make three different patriotic greeting cards with Laurie Krauss of Stampin’ Up. Materials fee $6.

215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh 517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

Brooklyn Big Boy Car Show Night

Brooklyn Big Boy, 5 to 8 p.m.

Every Wednesday, featuring live DJ, 50/50 drawing, and driver prizes.

329 S. Main St, Brooklyn

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

Blissfield Car & Bike Show

Springbrook Commons, 4-7 p.m.

The shops and restaurants of Springbrook Commons invite you to a monthly car show. 636 W. Adrian St., Blissfield blissfieldmainstreet.com

Book Bingo Adrian District Library, 10 a.m.

Play Bingo to win books and other prizes. For ages 7 and up.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us

Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park: The Keynote Sisters

Southern Michigan Center for Science and Industry, 6:30 p.m.

A sibling singer/songwriter duo from Lake Orion, the Keynote Sisters’ sound pulls from influences of pop, folk, and Americana, tied together by their signature knit-tight harmonies. This free concert series takes place on the grounds of the Southern Michigan Center for Science and Industry and is organized by Dave Sheely in partnership with the Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce. Donations will be accepted.

550 E. Main St., Hudson facebook.com/psgraphics123

Evening Concert at Walker Tavern

Walker Tavern Historic Site, 6-8 p.m.

Enjoy a cool evening in the shaded lawn of the Hewitt House as you listen to some live music by Foxfire. Bring a friend, bring a lawn chair, bring a picnic, and celebrate summer. The Friends of Walker Tavern will have their root beer for sale. Admission is free but donations are accepted. Recreation Passport required for park entry.

13220 M-50, Brooklyn irishhills.com

Adrian City Band: Stage & Screen City Market Pavilion, 7:30 p.m.

Classic film scores and show tunes from hit musicals will come to life in this final performance of the season.

115 Toledo St., Adrian adriancityband.org

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale

Along U.S. 12, all day

If you love shopping and searching for hidden treasures, check out the U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale, also known as “Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale.” This sale stretches the entire length of the U.S. 12 corridor, over 200 miles from New Buffalo to Detroit, and features antiques, collectibles, furniture, dishware, fresh garden produce, homemade jams and jellies, live entertainment and much more. The sales can be found along the highway at homes, farms, businesses, parking lots and fields. us12heritagetrail.org

‘Newsies’

Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

Opening night for this Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit, a song-and-dance spectacular inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899. Tickets range from $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids. Guests are reminded to purchase only from the Croswell box office, and that the Croswell will never sell tickets to any show for more than the advertised price.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

Song-and-dance extravaganza ‘Newsies’ coming to the Croswell stage in August

When “Newsies” exploded onto Broadway in 2012, it racked up eight Tony Award nominations and ran for more than 1,000 performances. Now that musical, known for its rousing anthems and its spectacular dance numbers, is playing for two weekends at the Croswell Opera House with a cast drawn from all over southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio.

“Newsies” is inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899, in which newspaper vendors, most of them boys and young men, went on strike to demand improvements in their pay.

Kevin Ludwig of Monclova, Ohio, plays Jack Kelly, the leader of the Newsies. Ludwig will be familiar to anyone who saw last summer’s production of “Jersey Boys,” in which he played Tommy DeVito. Jack’s best friend, Crutchie, is played by Ben Bascuk of Waterville, Ohio. Sibling newsboys Davey and Les are played by Will DuPuis of Toledo and Olivia Grzebik of Clinton.

Elise Brown of Sylvania, Ohio, plays Katherine Plumber, a young female reporter who helps the Newsies publicize their strike. Brown previously played the lead role in the Croswell’s 2023 production of “The Prom.” Phil Skeldon of Sylvania plays newspaper mogul Joseph Pulitzer.

The cast of more than 40 also includes Tyler Condon, Christopher Harlan, Abigail Knight, Dennis Marsh, Libby Pifer, Alex Pizaña, Alex Sheremeta, Eli Stachowske, Ella Trevino, Briella York and Hallie Yuen, all of Adrian; John Lamb of Ann Arbor; Matthew Herr of Britton; Robert Eccles of Carleton; Mason Olvera of Lambertville; Ethan Anderson of Manchester; John Bacarella of Monroe; Jonah Hiatt of Palmyra; Abigail Johnson and Timothy Johnson of Petersburg; Abigail Lipsitz and Sophia Zebrowski of Saline; Riley Bollock and Alex Hackbardt of South Lyon; Dylan Cunningham of Tecumseh; Miriam Roth and Quintin Steers of Ypsilanti; AnjalieNicole Coates of Bowling Green, Ohio; Brooke Ward of Fayette, Ohio; Reed Schwieterman and Ebone Waweru of Maumee, Ohio; Anna Giller and Katherine Giller of Oregon, Ohio; Alan Jimenez of Perrysburg, Ohio; Ciara Lieberman of Sylvania; and Lydia Carroll, Nathan Glover and Scott Heuerman of Toledo.

The director is Debra Ross Calabrese, a frequent Croswell director whose recent credits include “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and “A Christmas Story.” The choreographer is Jodi Hissong, who also choreographed last summer’s production of “Mary Poppins.” The vocal director is Wynne Marsh, the orchestra is under the baton of Ray Novak, an the stage manager is Evan Schultz.

This production also boasts a connection to the original Broadway staging: Tobin Ost, an Adrian native who was nominated for a Tony Award for his scenic design for the show, is collaborating with Croswell scenic artist Marty Flake on developing the show’s look.

Tickets range from $22 for $44 for adults and $15 to $25 for students. Tickets can be ordered at croswell.org or by calling 517-264-7469.

Show dates and times:

n Friday, August 9 12 at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, August 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, August 11 at 2:30 p.m.

n Thursday, August 15 at 7:30 p.m.

n Friday, August 16 at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, August 17 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, August 18 at 2:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 10

U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale

Along U.S. 12, all day

The U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale, also known as “Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale,” continues. us12heritagetrail.org

Devils Lake Classic Car Show

The Village, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This annual classic car show also offers food, shopping and door prizes.

110 Walnut St., Manitou Beach 419-277-2538

‘Newsies’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

This Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-anddance spectacular inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899. Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

Blissfield on Tap

Bachmayer Park, 4-9 p.m.

Join friends and neighbors at an outdoor craft beer festival at Clara Bachmayer Park along the banks of the River Raisin. Participating brewers include Blom Mead, Broken Barrel Cider, Four Keys Brewing, Inside the Five, Pavlov’s Brewing Co., Tecumseh Brewing Co., and Ypsi Alehouse.

Featuring live music by Rick Whited & Josh Petree at 4 p.m., Lean Times at 5:45 p.m., and Chloe & the Steel Strings at 7:30 p.m. 113 S. Monroe St., Blissfield facebook.com/blissfieldparksandrec

USA Patriots softball games

Adrian College, 5 p.m.

The USA Patriots Amputee Softball Team will host games featuring both the adult team (made up of veterans who have lost limbs) and participants in their kids’ camp. The games will take place at Adrian College’s Nicolay Field. USA Patriots, which includes Adrian native Saul Bosquez, travels the country playing able-bodied teams in competitive and exhibition softball games, and started a kids’ camp in 2014 after noticing the impact that seeing the team had on children who had lost limbs themselves. usapatriotsathletics.org

Movies in the Park: ‘Jumanji’

Onsted Village Park, 7 to 11:30 p.m.

A family night out in Onsted’s village park. Before the movie, activities will include music, games, and local food vendors (Big Steve’s BBQ, Rollin’ Fresh Gourmet, and Levi’s Sweet Treats). The movie, which begins at dusk, will include classic cartoon previews. This month’s offering is “Jumanji,” the 1995 fantasyadventure film starring Robin Williams, Kirsten Dunst and David Alan Grier. South 2nd Street, Onsted

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11

U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale

Along U.S. 12, all day

The U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale, also known as “Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale,” continues. us12heritagetrail.org

Sauk Trail Memories

Walker Tavern Historic Site, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy demonstrations of traditional arts at Cambridge Junction’s Walker Tavern Historic Site.

13220 M-50, Brooklyn

‘Newsies’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-and-dance spectacular inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899. Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14

Scenic Beauty of Iceland

Tecumseh District Library, 1 p.m.

Experience the beauty of Iceland with this photographic presentation by George Jabol. The presentation will include the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church and Northern Lights Center in the capital city of Reykjavik, the gorgeous black sand beaches of Iceland’s southern coast, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and Thingvelir National Park, where the European and North American tectonic plates meet.

517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

Brooklyn Big Boy Car Show Night

Brooklyn Big Boy, 5 to 8 p.m.

Every Wednesday, featuring live DJ, 50/50 drawing, and driver prizes.

329 S. Main St, Brooklyn

Morenci Back-to-School Bash

Downtown Morenci, 6-8 p.m.

The Morenci Back-to-School Bash is a vibrant community event held in downtown Morenci, bringing together local organizations to provide essential school supplies to students, introduce school programs and extracurricular activities, entertain with fun games and prizes, and offer a free meal to families.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 15

Heritage Room 101

Adrian District Library, 7 p.m.

Learn about the library’s local history room as well as the library’s online resources with the ADL’s local history librarian.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us or 517-265-2265

Cruise into Sandbar Cafe Sandbar Cafe, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Bring your classic or muscle car, hot rod, bike or just stop in to join in on the fun. Event includes music, cornhole, cards, and ice cream. Every other Thursday.

103 S. Talbot St., Addison sandbarcafe.cafe or 517-252-5560

Movies on Lane: ‘Up’ Downtown Blissfield, 6:30 p.m.

Bring your friends and family to downtown Blissfield every third Thursday this summer for an outdoor movie night. Before the movie starts, Lane Street closes to traffic and opens up for entertainment, shopping, food, and movie-inspired activities. Bring your own chair and blankets. Food truck every month. The free movie starts at dusk, and this month’s selection is Pixar’s “Up.” South Lane Street, Blissfield blissfieldmainstreet.com

Classic Car & Bike Show Downtown Tecumseh, 6 to 8 p.m. Classic cars and bikes will be on display in the Old National Bank parking lot and the adjacent downtown lot. Registration is free, but participants are asked to bring a nonperishable food item to donate.

205 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh downtowntecumseh.com 517-424-6555

‘Newsies’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

This Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-anddance spectacular inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899. Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

309 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh downtowntecumseh.com or 517-423-5602

Music in the Park: Jack Pine Savages Adams Park, 6-8 p.m.

Downtown Tecumseh’s Third Thursday free concert series features the Jack Pine Savages, a musical trio kicking out the funky sounds of blues, R&B, rock, Motown and more.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16

Blissfield Music in the Park: Adrian College Ensemble South Lane Street, 6-8 p.m.

Live music by the Adrian College Ensemble in Bicentennial Park, just off of South Lane Street downtown. blissfieldmainstreet.com

Wizarding Weekend

Downtown Tecumseh, 6-9 p.m.

Downtown Tecumseh presents a “Wizarding Weekend” on Friday and Saturday, with adultthemed activities on Friday night and a family day on Saturday. Friday’s activities are a mix of free fun and a special VIP ticketed event. downtowntecumseh.com

Henry Ford Health 200

Michigan International Speedway, 6 p.m.

An Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) Menard Series race. Tickets $10. 12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn mispeedway.com

‘Newsies’

The Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

This Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-anddance spectacular inspired by the real-life New York City newsboys’ strike of 1899. Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids. 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

SATURDAY,

Yoga on the Lawn

AUGUST 17

Tecumseh District Library, 9 a.m.

Join Beth Flumignan of Creative Spirit Yoga for yoga on the library lawn. Explore movement and develop physical skills, learn yoga poses through active imagination, and creatively channel energy by following movement instruction and practicing calming moments. Bring your own blanket or mat and a water bottle. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh 517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

Summer Fest

Irish Hills Eagles

The Irish Hills Eagles present their annual Summer Fest, with live music, local vendors, and more. Pig roast on Saturday. 9500 Wamplers Lake Road, Brooklyn Irish Hills Eagles 3689 on Facebook

Wizarding Weekend

Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown Tecumseh presents a “Wizarding Weekend” on Friday and Saturday, with adult-themed activities on Friday night and a family day on Saturday. The first 100 kids who check in at the welcome table at Platform 9 3/4 (Chicago and Evans) will receive a special swag bag. The swag bag will include all the places to stop in Diagon Alley so you are ready for your wizarding classes, plus other event-related swag. Wear your favorite wizarding-themed attire and enter the costume contest at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Tecumseh Tavern parking lot. The train from Southern Michigan Railroad will be at Chicago and Evans for photo ops and rides at specified times. Schedule of rides will be posted at the platform. downtowntecumseh.com

‘Newsies’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-and-dance spectacular. Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids. 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

Cabo Wabo 250

Michigan International Speedway, 6 p.m.

A NASCAR Xfinity Series race. Tickets $35 to $56.

12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn mispeedway.com

Clinton Inn Fifth Anniversary Party

Clinton Inn, 6-11 p.m.

Huffaker Homes celebrates five years of owning the historic Clinton Inn with a party that includes a bounce house, magic show, fire dancer, face painting, juggling acts, food trucks and more.

104 W Michigan Ave., Clinton theclintoninn.com

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

‘Newsies’

The Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit is a song-and-dance spectacular.

Tickets $22 to $44 for adults, $15 to $25 for kids.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

Firekeepers Casino 400

Michigan International Speedway, 2:30 p.m.

The FireKeepers Casino 400 marks the 106th race hosted by MIS in Cup Series history.

Tickets $62 to $137.

12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn • mispeedway.com

Summer Fest

Irish Hills Eagles

The Irish Hills Eagles present their annual Summer Fest, with live music, food trucks, local vendors, and more.

9500 Wamplers Lake Road, Brooklyn Irish Hills Eagles 3689 on Facebook

TUESDAY, AUGUST 20

School Supply Bingo

Lenawee Great Start, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

A fun evening of bingo with snacks and school supply prizes. For Lenawee County families with kids ages 12 and under.

801 E. Maumee St., Adrian • 517-417-8051

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21

Brooklyn Big Boy Car Show Night

Brooklyn Big Boy, 5 to 8 p.m.

Every Wednesday, featuring live DJ, 50/50 drawing, and driver prizes.

329 S. Main St, Brooklyn

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

Blissfield Music in the Park:

Pomegranate Whiskey Band

South Lane Street, 7-9 p.m.

Live music by the Pomegranate Whiskey Band — featuring “an eclectic mix of music with an ever-expanding catalog, everything from Elvis to Ozzy” — in Bicentennial Park, just off of South Lane Street downtown. blissfieldmainstreet.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24

Vintage Base Ball Tournament

Walker Tavern Historic Site, 10 a.m.

Experience baseball the way it used to be played when the Walker Wheels, Walker Tavern’s vintage base ball club, hosts the Wheels Invitational. facebook.com/walkertavernwheels

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

Brooklyn Big Boy Car Show Night

Brooklyn Big Boy, 5 to 8 p.m.

Every Wednesday, featuring live DJ, 50/50 drawing, and driver prizes.

329 S. Main St, Brooklyn

All-Natural Body Wash Class Paper Street Soap, 7 p.m.

Learn to make your own refreshing, organic and all-natural face and body washes from scratch with Victoria Lord of Paper Street Soap. This class covers how to formulate your own all-natural washes or cleansers using ingredients you would like to incorporate. Participants will learn how to substitute ingredients and how to formulate gentle cleansers using a wide range of natural ingredients. Organized by the Tecumseh District Library but takes place at Paper Street Soap. Materials fee $10. 133 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh 517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Cruise into Sandbar Cafe Sandbar Cafe, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Bring your classic or muscle car, hot rod, bike or just stop in to join in on the fun. Event includes music, cornhole, cards, and ice cream. 103 S. Talbot St., Addison

JOIN US FOR SCHOOL YEAR PROGRAMS

WEEKDAYS IN ADRIAN & HUDSON STARTING AUGUST 26th!

OPEN TO ALL YOUTH GRADES 1st - 12th MORE INFO. WWW.BGCLENAWEE.ORG

Challenges for all ages!

Babies & Toddlers | Preschool - Grade 6 Grades 6-12 | Adults

ROLLER COASTER ADVENTURE

TUESDAY, JULY 16 | 2-3 PM GRADES 2-6

Excited for the upcoming county fair? Join us in building some homemade roller coasters at the library! All supplies provided.

MURDER MYSTERY PARTY

THURSDAY, JULY 11 | 7-9PM GRADES 6-12

Help solve a murder! Take on the persona of a masquerade party guest and interrogate your friends. Food and masks for all who attend. Registration required.

ANIMAL ADVENTURE

TUESDAY, JULY 23 2-2:45 PM OR 3-3:45 PM PRESCHOOL- GRADE 6

ARK Animal Encounters will be bringing animals to the library. Two sessions available. Registration required.

JAPANESE TEA CEREMONY

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24 3:30 - 5PM | ADULTS

Saori Shimizu, of Numazu Delights, offers a traditional tea ceremony and talks about other interesting customs in Japan. Registration required.

Silver Creek Bridge Walk a Labor Day tradition in Morenci for 30 years

MORENCI — The annual Silver Creek Bridge Walk will take place at 11 a.m. on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, in Morenci.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Silver Creek Bridge Walk. The tradition began in 1995, founded by Morenci residents Bob Dister and Adam Johnson. They envisioned an alternative to the famous Mackinac Bridge Walk, given Morenci’s unique position as the southernmost town in Michigan with the southernmost bridge.

The Mackinac Bridge Walk, spanning five miles and connecting Mackinaw City in the lower peninsula to St. Ignace in the upper peninsula, has been an annual event since 1958, drawing thousands of participants. Inspired by this, the inaugural Morenci Bridge Walk took place over the Murray D. Van Wagoner Bridge at the southern end of East Street (M-156), attracting 450 guests.

The Murray D. Van Wagoner Bridge, constructed in the 1930s, was part of plans for a Michigan-to-Florida tourist route known as the Taft Highway. The entrance into Michigan passed over the new Van Wagoner Bridge into Morenci, marking a significant development in local infrastructure.

The Van Wagoner bridge was used for the Silver Creek Bridge Walk until 2005, when the historic truss bridge was first used. The historic truss bridge, constructed in 1893, once carried automotive traffic across a stream in Hillsdale County. It was refurbished and brought to Morenci through a project by the Michigan Department

of Transportation as a “Welcome to Michigan” site. The pedestrian bridge runs parallel to the Van Wagoner bridge on M-156 along the Michigan-Ohio border.

The Silver Creek Bridge Walk is a much shorter and leisurely alternative to its northern counterpart. While the Mackinac Bridge measures five miles, Morenci’s bridge is only about 83 feet long. The water depth at the Straits of Mackinac is 20 fathoms, or about 120 feet, compared to Silver Creek’s mere third of a fathom. The northern walk typically takes two hours to complete, while Morenci’s walk can be completed in 20 to 25 seconds.

Over the years, the event has garnered support from various local organizations, partnering with either the Kiwanis Club or Chamber of Commerce to raise funds for community causes. This year, the Kiwanis Club of Morenci is partnering with Morenci Area Schools, with proceeds supporting staff recognition initiatives.

This year’s event will once again open the microphone to showcase speeches by anyone wishing to participate, each limited to just 60 seconds — short and sweet, just like our bridge. That generally includes representatives from local organizations and politicians.

Guests from across the county, region, and state are invited to join in the celebration, with a hot dog lunch provided by the Kiwanis Club of Morenci. Commemorative T-shirts will be for sale at the event.

LIVE MUSIC AT BARS AND NIGHT SPOTS

Information in this listing is taken from a mixture of submissions and information published by the venues. We recommend checking with venues to verify that information is up to date before making plans. If you have a date you’d like to add, please email news@lenaweevoice.com before the 15th of the preceding month.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

Mike Lee, 6-9 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Sounds of Summer series.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 9

Midnite Stew, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Cousins Maine Lobster. $5 cover. Clifton Millimen, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., at Mammoth Distilling, 108 E Maumee St, Adrian.

AC/DC Tribute by Noise Pollution, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; order ticksts online at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 10

Billie Lewis & The Soulbacks, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Tiki Sam’s Pizza. $5 cover.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11

The Vig Arcadia, 3-5 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique, 12000 Pentecost Highway, Onsted. Part of the Sunday Acoustics series.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16

Detroit Light, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Rollin’ Hoagies. $5 cover.

Noah Martis, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., at Mammoth Distilling, 108 E Maumee St, Adrian.

Spin Doctors Solo by Spin Doctors lead singer Chris Barron, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17

Big Foot Bob & the Toe Tappers, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Ben’s Island Grindz. $5 cover.

Leadfoot, 7-10 p.m., at Johnnie’s Bar & Grill, 130 N. Main St., Onsted.

Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute by Almost Chili Peppers, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

Ethan Timm, 3-5 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique, 12000 Pentecost Highway, Onsted. Part of the Sunday Acoustics series.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22

John Voelz, 6-9 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Sounds of Summer series. Cabaret with cast members from “Newsies,” 7-9 p.m., at Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

Gabriel Hagedorn, 7-10 p.m., at Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Same Mistake Twice, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: FFF Truck. $5 cover. Charlie Johnson & Isaac, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., at Mammoth Distilling, 108 E Maumee St, Adrian.

Not Fast Enüff, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24

Dayshift, 7-10 p.m., at Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

The Jack Pine Savages, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Whiskey Jacks BBQ. $5 cover.

Elvis and Johnny Cash Tribute by The Devil Elvis Show, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Jaded Soul, 8 p.m. to midnight, at the Adrian Eagles, 2522 W. Beecher Road.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25

Soup Sandwich, 2-5 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Sounds of Summer series.

Piano Mike, 3-5 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique, 12000 Pentecost Highway, Onsted. Part of the Sunday Acoustics series.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

The Native Heart, 6-9 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Sounds of Summer series.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30

John Louis Good & the Rose City Troubadours, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Smokehouse 52. $5 cover.

Brittani McComb, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., at Mammoth Distilling, 108 E Maumee St, Adrian.

Cars Tribute by Carpool, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31

Mark Maze & the Big Deal Band, 7-10 p.m., at Cherry Creek Cellars, 11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn. Part of the Vineyard Jams series. Featured food truck: Smokehouse 52. $5 cover. David Bowie Tribute by Serious Moonlight, 8 p.m., at Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $40, four for $70, eight for $120; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Midnite Stew, 8-11 p.m., at Green Valley Campground, 11500 Morenci Road, Morenci.

People take part in the 2019 Silver Creek Bridge Walk in this photo from the archives of the State Line Observer.

she decided her path lay in music, and she went on to earn a degree in music education, master’s degrees in choral conducting and voice performance, and a DMA in voice performance.

Phil, on the other hand, started his musical training very early. The Oberlin, Ohio, native began piano lessons at age 6, and after the family moved to Toledo he got connected with the piano professor at the University of Toledo and ended up earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in piano performance there.

Both the Clarks, in addition to their teaching, maintain extremely busy schedules as performers. Kristin has performed in concerts and operas throughout the U.S. and internationally, and Phil is active both as a soloist and as an accompanist.

He much prefers the latter. “What I like about it is getting to make music with others,” he said. “There’s really nothing that compares to that. Being onstage with others is always more fun.”

And the connection between a recitalist and accompanist is quite unique. For a soloist, “the accompanist holds our fate in their hands,” Kristin said, laughing. “When something goes wrong, they’re the ones that fix it. And Phil is a fabulous pianist and a fabulous collaborator.”

Both the Clarks think their careers as performers are important to their careers as college educators. “It’s really important for our students to see us walking the walk,” Kristin said. “They can see that we’re actually exercising our passion.”

In fact, just this past June, some 30 members of the Adrian College Choir, which is directed by Phil, got to see Kristin doing exactly that, and in an upclose-and-personal way.

Kristin was the mezzo-soprano soloist for a performance of the Duruflé Requiem at Carnegie Hall that also included a choral ensemble made up of the Adrian College choir students, a high school choir, a community-college chorus, and a community chorus. The instrumentalists were the New York Chamber Ensemble and organist Aaron Tan.

The piece was conducted by Jerry Blackstone, who’s now a professor emeritus at the University of Michigan. Blackstone is “a superstar in the choral conducting world,” Kristin said, and she has sung many times under his baton including previously in this work. So, when he contacted her to ask her to participate, “I was like, ‘say no more, I’ll be there.’ ”

The performance was actually Kristin’s second at Carnegie Hall. Her first concert at the fabled venue, in 2015, was a Mahler performance — requiring

her to sing “for about 30 minutes straight” — in Weill Recital Hall.

“It was a fabulous, special experience,” she said, and this June’s concert was even more so because it took place on the venue’s main stage, the Ronald O. Perelman Stage in Isaac Stern Auditorium.

Being in the Stern Auditorium, which has hosted performances since 1891 and featured some of history’s greatest musicians, “you think about how anyone you ever worshiped has performed on that stage,” she said.

Phil began working with the choir on the Duruflé piece early in the spring semester, adding rehearsals as time went by, and the intense efforts clearly paid off when Blackstone told Kristin that the Adrian College students had been leaders amongst the choral ensemble. “Musically, there was much to be proud of,” she said.

For the students, the trip was the opportunity of a lifetime for many reasons. Some had never been to New York City. Some had never been on a plane before. Some had never traveled at all, in fact. But here they were, performing at Carnegie Hall under Blackstone’s direction. “The opportunity for the students to work with him was one of the reasons we wanted them to go on this trip,” Kristin said.

And during the concert, “for me to turn around and see all these students of mine, it was so cool.”

Besides that, she said, “I know what an impact it had on me (as a music student) to get to go see my teacher sing, and at Carnegie Hall, my students got to see me do that.”

It didn’t help, though, that she was “super-sick” the day of the concert, waking up that morning with no voice. But being in that historic venue boosted

“It’s really important for our students to see us walking the walk,” says Kristin Clark, pictured here during a Carnegie Hall performance in June. “They can see that we’re actually exercising our passion.”

her. Sitting there onstage waiting for her time to sing, “I felt like everyone who’d sung there before me was supporting me,” she said.

Local music lovers will get their own opportunity to hear both Kristin’s voice

and the results of Phil’s work with the Adrian College Choir next year as part of a performance of Haydn’s Paukenmesse with the Adrian Symphony Orchestra. The concert is at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2025.

Adrian College choir students were part of a choral ensemble that took part in a performance of the Duruflé Requiem at Carnegie Hall earlier this summer. At left is Kristin Clark, the mezzo-soprano soloist for the performance; at right is choir director Phillip Clark.