The Lenawee Voice — February 2026

Para noticias locales en español, por favor vaya a la página C10 Work begins on pedestrian tunnel under M-52 in Adrian

Charity that makes kids’ beds expanding to Lenawee County

Community service recognized at annual MLK celebration

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THE LENAWEE VOICE

ADRIAN, MICHIGAN

FREE FEBRUARY 2026

LOCAL NEWS FOR ADRIAN AND LENAWEE COUNTY

3 SECTIONS | 40 PAGES

From bean to bar at Harvest Chocolate Local literacy center spins off into independent organization » PAGE A3

New Country Market grocery store opening soon in Blissfield » PAGE A6 Matt Cross and Elizabeth Gentry are the owners of Harvest Chocolate in downtown Tecumseh. PHOTOS BY ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

For these local entrepreneurs, chocolate isn’t just a food, it’s an entire experience

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

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ACA exhibit celebrates the intersection of art RECYCLING, page A4 » PAGE C1 and nature See

TECUMSEH — Matt Cross and Elizabeth Gentry had each made careers for themselves in the culinary profession — he as a chef, she as a pastry chef — when they met in New York City.

But after they’d both worked in restaurants literally coast to coast, the couple realized they wanted to do something different with their lives.

“After a while, you kind of burn out when you’re a chef,” Gentry said. “When you’re in fine dining, it can be just like you see on TV, which isn’t fun.”

And so Gentry, an Adrian native, and Cross, who grew up in Rochester, N.Y., decided to move closer to Gentry’s family “and take a step backwards and see what we wanted to do next,” she said.

It wasn’t long before that next step materialized: Harvest Chocolate, a “bean to bar” shop located at 110 W. Chicago Blvd. in Tecumseh. The couple makes their chocolate right onsite, from roasting the cocoa beans all the way to the finished product.

Elizabeth Gentry works with a batch of chocolate at Harvest Chocolate. She and her husband make all the chocolate on site, from roasting the beans to the finished product.

Gentry and Cross started out by renting space at the Adrian Armory to make their chocolates, then moved to their current location but only rented a small part of it.

Hudson competitive cheer team aims to recapture state crown » PAGE A9

Finally, about three years ago, they took over the whole space, which long ago was a bank but which more-recent local residents once knew as the home of The Chocolate Vault.

It was a gradual process on purpose.

“We’ve always been intentional about how we wanted to grow,” Gentry said.

As a pastry chef, Gentry had long used chocolate in her creations. But “at that point, chocolate was really just an ingredient,” she said. Learning to actually make chocolate took some education.

She worked for a chocolate maker for a while and the couple spent a lot of time on cacao farms in Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Hawaii, even helping with the harvesting and processing.

A lot of work goes into chocolate before the beans even make it to a place like Harvest Chocolate, let alone what happens once the huge sacks of beans arrive at the shop.

Chocolate starts its life on cacao trees grown in tropical regions of the

See HARVEST CHOCOLATE, page A15

Morenci Kiwanis Club plans annual Rex Riley Soup & Pie Fundraiser » PAGE B4

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FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Stanley Caine, former president of Adrian College, dies at 85 TECUMSEH — Stanley Caine, a retired president of Adrian College and a longtime community volunteer, died on Dec. 29. He was 85.

Caine was born in South Dakota and grew up around small college campuses, including Jamestown College in North Dakota, Macalester College in Minnesota, and Illinois College, where his father served as president.

Stanley Caine He pursued his own undergraduate studies at Macalester, earning a bachelor’s degree in history, and later went on to earn his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin.

He began his career as a college professor and later moved into administration. He served as Adrian College’s 16th president from 1989 to 2005. Projects undertaken under his leadership included construction of the Merillat Sport & Fitness Center, expansion of the Shipman Library, and transforming the former Ridge Gymnasium into what is now the Caine Student Center, renamed in his honor following his presidency.

In retirement, he served on several nonprofit boards. He was active with the Rotary Club, Lenawee Community Foundation, and Lenawee County Education Foundation. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Adrian.

He had been living for the past six years with Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, and by their children, Rebecca, Kathryn and David and their families.

IN BRIEF Networking event at Armory ADRIAN — Good Morning Lenawee, a networking event for business professionals, is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 12, from 8-9 a.m. at the Adrian Armory, 230 W. Maumee St. in Adrian.

This networking event is presented by Adrian Armory, Clever Ideas Marketing and Launch Lenawee.

The event will include networking opportunities, an educational presentation, and a spotlight on the local nonprofit Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee.

Attendees are encouraged to donate hygiene items for teens.

Those who would like to attend can register online for $10 per person, at cleverideasmarketing.com/events.

Greater Lenawee Chamber elects leadership team ADRIAN — The Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce elected its 2026 leadership team in January.

The officers are Todd Brown (chair), Tino Rebottaro (past chair), David Ross (vice chair), Todd Warner (treasurer), Misty Shulters (secretary), and Caleb Khon (financial team). The organization’s executive director is Melissa Tsuji.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

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FEBRUARY 2026

LOCAL NEWS

News tips and press releases can be emailed to news@lenaweevoice.com. We welcome submissions in either English or Spanish.

To meet our print deadline, news about upcoming events should be sent by the 15th of the month before the event.

Literacy center spins off into independent organization

Sister Fran Nadolny, OP, center, is pictured with Adrian Rea Literacy Center board members Carrie Hartley, Emma Briggs, Cassandra Hermosillo, Kade Doyle, Mike MacFarland, Christine MacNaughton, and Darlene Southward.

Adult Spelling Bee fundraiser planned for April 16 ADRIAN — The Adrian Rea Literacy Center, which provides free literacy tutoring for adults, marked its transition from sponsorship by the Adrian Dominican Sisters to an independent nonprofit organization with a ceremony on Jan. 21.

The milestone was commemorated with a formal transition ceremony led by

Sister Fran Nadolny, OP, a member of the congregation’s General Council.

“We are profoundly grateful to the Adrian Dominican Sisters for their visionary leadership and years of unwavering support,” said Rhea Staniszewski, executive director of the

See LITERACY CENTER, page A13

A4 | LOCAL NEWS

IN BRIEF Contract awarded for 227 N. Winter St. demolition ADRIAN — A contract to demolish the building at 227 N. Winter St., known as Courthouse Commons, was awarded at the Jan. 20 Adrian City Commission meeting. The project was awarded to Desbrough Excavating & Trucking from Dundee, which was the lowest bidder at $100,000. Seven other companies submitted bids, ranging from $142,000 to $297,121.

The commission approved the purchase of the property in August 2025.

It is part of a larger project aimed at preparing the riverfront area along North Winter Street for future redevelopment.

City administrator Chad Baugh said the demolition cost will be paid using a $15 million state budget earmark that included the Winter Street riverfront among its intended uses.

In a memo provided to the city commission about the demolition, code enforcement officer Glenn Preston said the city has worked with Desbrough Excavating before. Preston also said that, as part of the bid evaluation process, he and city building official Dan Black met with the company to discuss the specific challenges of the site, which include the fact that the building is only about 18 inches away from an adjacent property.

Proposal discussed for home repair reimbursement ADRIAN — The Adrian City Commission is discussing a proposal for the use of a $100,000 settlement intended to benefit people affected by the Crimson Holdings powdered egg processing facility on East Maumee Street.

Currently the city has received $50,000 of the settlement, which Crimson Holdings was ordered to pay by Judge Laura Schaedler. The remaining $50,000 is still pending as the company is in bankruptcy proceedings. Crimson Holdings no longer operates the plant, which was purchased in 2024 by Veos USA. Community development director Lisa Hewitt-Cruz brought a proposal to the commission’s Jan. 20 meeting for a program in which residents of the affected area could apply for reimbursement of household repair expenses.

The draft proposal reviewed by the commission calls for the payments to be available to people who lived in the area during the Crimson Holdings pollution and made eligible home repairs during that time. The funding would be available to homeowners or renters, but not to landlords unless they also lived on the property.

Details of the program, including the maximum reimbursement amount and the exact area to be covered, are still being worked out.

Credit Union donates $180,000 to local causes ADRIAN — American 1 Credit Union officials say the credit union’s charitable giving in 2025 topped $180,000. Donations went to local partners, organizations, and nonprofits throughout the year, and included more than $8,250 during the holiday season to two dozen organizations, including the HOPE Community Center in Adrian and the Salvation Army of Hillsdale, according to Lenawee Voice news partner Local Buzz Radio.

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Work begins on pedestrian tunnel ADRIAN — Construction began Jan. 12 on the planned pedestrian tunnel underneath South Main Street in Adrian.

The tunnel will be part of the Kiwanis Trail, a 12.7-mile walking and biking trail that connects Adrian to Tecumseh. It will be located just north of the corner of South Main and Beecher streets, which according to police is the most crashprone intersection within the city limits.

Beginning later this month, drivers will see lane shifts along South Main Street, with traffic reduced to two lanes, one in each direction, on the east side of the roadway.

In April, plans call for one week of complete closure to bring the tunnel across the street and then shift traffic from the east side to the west side.

Following this shift, traffic will be reduced on the west side of the roadway to one lane in each direction.

In the final phase, traffic going in both directions will be shifted to the center, with the outer lanes closed.

The estimated completion date is Labor Day of this year.

Work on the tunnel began after a $3.5 million appropriation for the project was included in the 2021-22 state budget.

“This project reflects a series of actions taken over multiple years through established public processes, and construction represents the final administrative step in implementing those decisions,” city administrator Chad Baugh said in a news release.

During the Jan. 20 city commission meeting, Baugh noted that the state budget earmark was specifically for the bridge, and the city did not have the ability to spend it on anything else.

Mayor Angela Sword Heath added that safety for people crossing M-52 had been a concern for a long time, but other ideas, such as a flashing

Work began Jan. 12 on the planned pedestrian tunnel underneath South Main Street in Adrian. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE light or a bridge over the road, were rejected by the Michigan Department of Transportation.

The commission directed that construction costs be funded through external sources, Baugh said, not the city’s general fund. In addition to the $3.5 million state appropriation, $3 million is coming from federal funding.

Additional costs beyond that $6.5 million will be paid out of a $15 million enhancement grant that the city received as the result of a different state budget earmark. At the Jan. 20 commission meeting, Baugh estimated those costs at about $1.8 million.

The city commission also previously approved a framework to fund future maintenance through naming rights.

Based on analysis by the project engineer, finance director and city administration, the amount necessary to adequately fund long-term tunnel

City commission discusses spending of enhancement grant ADRIAN — The spending of an enhancement grant that was set aside for Adrian community development projects by a 2022 state budget earmark was discussed at the Jan. 20 Adrian City Commission meeting.

The agreement for the $15 million grant is between the state of Michigan and the nonprofit economic development organization Lenawee Now. Pat Farver, executive director of Lenawee Now, attended the meeting to give an update and answer commissioners’ questions.

Farver said $7,059,435 has been spent to date. Originally, the grant was supposed to be completely expended by the end of 2025, but Lenawee Now asked for and received a one-year extension.

That means the organization still needs to spend another $7,936,166 on eligible projects, Farver said, and “we’ve got 11 months and two weeks to do it.”

Projects to date have included the Park House development in the 100 block of South Main Street — the former Hamerman’s Furniture — and the work being done to prepare the Winter Street riverfront area for eventual redevelopment. Those were two of the major priorities of the private citizens who lobbied in Lansing to get the budget earmark passed, Farver said, although there are plenty of other projects that can also be undertaken within the scope of the grant.

When it came to some of the other projects done using enhancement grant funds, Farver said, “we basically got the bill when things were done.”

“The previous administration, I think, took liberties that were beyond what they should have,” he said.

Some of the grant was spent on engineering work for a planned bike loop on Winter Street. That project can’t be done within the allotted time, Farver said, so the money spent on engineering services was “kind of a waste.”

Farver also talked about the initiative to build a town square in the Maiden Lane alley off of South Main Street.

Quotes for the project came in way over budget, he said, and “it was a beautiful design if you like Frank Lloyd Wright or whatever, but it doesn’t fit our city.”

Commissioner Mary Roberts asked for clarification that although Lenawee Now is the entity legally responsible for the grant, projects on city property still require commission approval.

“The decisions on what happen on city property rest up here,” she said.

“We’re the ones who get to decide what happens on city property, not Lenawee Now.” “Absolutely,” Farver said.

He added, “We’re collaborators. That’s how we get things done.”

Farver said he and community development director Lisa Hewitt-Cruz are meeting regularly about the grant.

maintenance was determined to be $168,000. A naming rights agreement was developed to establish a dedicated maintenance endowment, with all proceeds restricted solely to tunnel maintenance and any proposed name subject to city commission approval.

Due to the extreme cold that hit at the end of January, work was paused and is scheduled to start up again during the first week of February, weather permitting.

The next pieces of the project to be done are the removal of old utility poles and excavation on the west side of the road to prepare for drain installation.

No lanes of traffic on M-52 are anticipated to be affected until late February.

The contractor in charge of the project, Prein & Newhof, is posting project updates at preinnewhof.com/ construction_projects/m52-tunnel.

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LOCAL NEWS | A5

FEBRUARY 2026

Tecumseh school district to demolish community pool Major structural problems were discovered while preparing for planned renovations TECUMSEH — After major structural problems came to light during the course of planned renovations, the Tecumseh school district has reversed its previous course on the Tecumseh Community Memorial Pool, with the school board voting this month to demolish the pool instead.

In a letter to the Tecumseh community, Superintendent Matt Hilton said that as engineers worked on the facility, they discovered problems that were far greater than previously realized.

The work began after voters passed a levy in November 2024 whose purpose was to support infrastructure work across

all school buildings, with about $2.5 million devoted to replacing the pool roof.

In April 2025, the pool was closed to allow for the replacement of dehumidification and ventilation systems that had broken down beyond repair.

“At that time, we believed we were taking a proactive approach — accelerating mechanical repairs that were part of our planned renovations, with the planned pool reopening in Fall 2025 and the sinking fund-supported roof replacement scheduled for Spring 2026,” Hilton stated.

However, as engineers with contractor Magnus Engineering assessed the facility, they found extensive corrosion affecting nearly all of the primary and secondary steel components supporting the pool roof.

“This type of progressive deterioration causes subsurface swelling, loss of material density, and eventual flaking of steel, significantly reducing the

structure’s capacity,” Hilton stated.

“Magnus Engineering explicitly stated that the remaining material thickness is misleading and should not be relied upon for structural calculations. While an exact failure date cannot be predicted, the risk of partial or progressive collapse rises over time, especially during winter snow loads and temperature cycling.”

As a result of this discovery, the mechanical systems replacement was paused and never done.

“What began as a mechanical systems replacement project revealed a structural crisis that makes the building unsafe for public occupancy,” Hilton said.

The board reviewed three options: n Demolishing the current pool and rebuilding over the current basin, at an estimated cost of $15 million. n Demolition only, at an estimated cost of $2.3 million. n Building a new pool facility at a different site, at an estimated cost of $28 million.

The board chose the demolition-only option at this time, but will also establish a committee, led by the superintendent, to explore future options.

Plans call for demolition work to begin this summer or fall.

Hilton said the district is working to secure pool time for middle school and high school athletes at other area facilities, and is also exploring the possibility of establishing a co-op swim program with neighboring districts.

“I understand this news is disappointing, particularly for those who have cherished memories of this facility, those who use it regularly, our school swim teams, and those who were simply looking forward to its reopening,” Hilton said in his letter. “We share your disappointment.

However, we cannot compromise on safety, and we are committed to acting responsibly to protect our community while engaging with you thoughtfully about what comes next for aquatic programming in our community.”

Committee established to consider future of Siena Heights campus ADRIAN — Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters have formed of a joint committee to consider proposals for transformed use of the university’s campus, buildings, facilities and educational programs following its academic closure in June 2026.

The “Phoenix Committee” is cochaired by Harry “Dusty” Steele, chair of the Siena Heights board, and Sister Elise D. García, OP, prioress of the congregation.

The committee has engaged the services of the Consulting Corps of the Counselors of Real Estate, a nonprofit organization of 1,000 worldwide commercial property professionals, to assist the exploration. The Consulting Corps is a small and impartial group of volunteers whose expertise is tailored to the needs of the client. The Consulting Corps team for this effort will make a site visit to Adrian within the next two months.

Team members will interview dozens of diverse community members to obtain varied perspectives on needs and opportunities in Adrian and Lenawee County. Their final report will include findings and suggested next steps in alignment with the mission and values of Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters.

Proposals for use of the campus will be invited. Priority will be given to proposals that are in alignment with

the mission and values of Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters, are financially viable, and will serve the common good of the Adrian and Lenawee County communities.

Siena Heights trustees have the authority to make recommendations to the General Council of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, which has final approval. For more information, email Jennifer Hunter at phoenix@ adriandominicans.org.

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IN BRIEF Rouget Road Solar proposal being reviewed by state PALMYRA TWP. — A proposal by RWE Clean Energy Development to build a 175-megawatt solar power installation in Palmyra Township is now in the hands of the Michigan Public Service Commission.

Michigan law allows wind and solar projects to appeal to the state for approval when they are blocked by local governments. Documents posted on the MPSC’s website show that the application for Rouget Road Solar was received in December.

Palmyra Township has filed a request to be allowed to intervene in the case.

All of the documents associated with the application can be viewed at www.michigan.gov/mpsc/regulatory/ facility-siting/renewable-energy-andstorage-facility-siting.

Marketing classes offered for local businesses ADRIAN — The Adrian Armory is offering a series of marketing classes and events to help local business owners learn how to better reach customers online and in the community. These educational sessions are sponsored by Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone, County National Bank and the Adrian Armory.

Marketing Roundtables where business owners can ask questions of local marketing experts will take place on: n Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 9-10 a.m. at County National Bank, 209 E. Russell Road, Tecumseh. n Wednesday, March 11, from 8-9 a.m. at the Adrian Armory, 230 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

Two “Lunch and Learn” sessions are also scheduled: n “Marketing Without Systems is Just Guesswork,” on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from noon to 1 p.m. at County National Bank in Tecumseh. n “Using Storytelling in Your Marketing,” on Wednesday, March 4, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Armory.

Registration is required at adrianarmory.com/business-education.

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Blissfield Country Market opening soon

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

BLISSFIELD — Thanks to the initiative of Springbrook Commons owner Rex Crist and the management team of the Polly’s Country Market independent chain of groceries stores, the village of Blissfield will soon have a grocery store again.

The new Blissfield Country Market will offer a wide selection of fresh foods and other grocery items in the same location as the former Borchardt Brothers.

Guy Kennedy Jr. from Country Market said that Crist approached the Kennedy family in May about working together to open a new store on the site. Construction started with gutting the building to make room for the new equipment that is installed throughout the store.

Once the new refrigeration and other equipment was in place, they found that the existing electrical system was not adequate to support the needs of the upgraded equipment. Consumers Energy was called in to determine what needed to be done to get the store up and running.

“It took a little bit of time,” Kennedy said. “We’ve met some great people in the process at Consumers that were able to push it along.”

He said the store, which measures about 20,000 square feet, is nearly ready to go.

To meet the needs of the community, Kennedy said that Country Market reached out to the community during a Yuletide open house in December and through the job interview process to find out what customers hoped to see in the store. Fresh food was the item most mentioned in customers’ wish lists.

Produce coolers, as well as tables with boxes of produce arranged with produce on them, were a top priority when the Country Market team started designing the inside of the store.

“For a store this size, it is a huge produce stock, so we have a ton of selection here for the community to choose from,” he said.

The deli and bakery section is located toward the west side of the building.

It features a door specifically for the

Guy Kennedy Jr. is pictured inside the new Country Market location in Blissfield. The family-owned grocery chain also has four stores in Jackson and one each in Adrian, Brooklyn and Chelsea. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE area. There will be a separate cashier available for customers who want to grab something to go or eat in the dining area that seats 12 to 15 people. Kennedy said Country Market is especially proud of the custom-made “state-of-the-art” counter they installed.

“The community wanted grab-and-go meals,” Kennedy said. “The deli was a huge emphasis for us.”

Hot food selections, soup, rotisserie chicken, fried chicken, specialty coldcuts and deli salads will be available.

Cold drinks are also available in the new beverage coolers in the deli area.

Bakery items will be made on site in the new oven and proofing oven that is part of the new equipment. Custommade cakes will be available, and will be made on site or in the Adrian store, Kennedy said.

New dairy coolers were installed in the same place where they were located in the old store. Lunch meat is located in the new coolers next to the dairy department. Frozen foods will be available.

The store has an alcohol section and a beer cooler, “the largest in our chain,” Kennedy said. There are plans to add liquor as well. Bottle return is also available.

The new Country Market will also

feature a full meat department. A butcher and meat cutters will work in-store for custom orders.

“If you have a specific preference on how you want something cut for a holiday or a party, we do that all the time,” Kennedy said.

The store will have between 30 and 50 employees.

Kennedy said that his family views this as a huge opportunity for the independent grocery chain, and credits Crist for pursuing it as a “passion project.” He also credits supplier SpartanNash for the success of the development.

“As a company, this is going on a fifth-generation family-owned business,” Kennedy said.

The company was founded in 1934 in Jackson, and operates seven other stores.

Blissfield village administrator Danielle Gross said the addition of a Country Market grocery store is welcome.

“Having a local grocery store is more than a convenience, it’s an essential part of a strong, connected community,” she said. “We’re excited for them to open, and thankful for their investment in our village.”

The store’s location is 628 E. Adrian St., Blissfield. More information is available at www.country-markets.com.

Community Mental Health’s new building will house crisis intervention team

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — The Lenawee Community Health Authority hosted a ribbon cutting event on Jan. 9 to celebrate the opening of its new building, located at 201 W. Maumee St. in Adrian. The building will serve as a central hub for LCMHA’s new Mobile Crisis Intervention Team.

The Mobile Crisis Intervention Team is funded through a three-year grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, which hopes to open similar programs throughout the state. The team will work with law enforcement, emergency medical services, hospitals and local organizations to help those who are experiencing a behavioral health emergency.

“A Mobile Crisis Intervention Team is a group of professionals that help people who are having a mental health or substance use emergency,” said Kathryn Szewczuk, LCMHA executive director.

“Having a modern, dedicated space for our Mobile Crisis Intervention Team

Pictured at the opening of the Lenawee Community Mental Health Authority’s new building, which will house the agency’s new Mobile Crisis Intervention Team, are executive director Kathryn Szewczuk, on-site supervisor Jennifer Carpenter, and board members Amy Palmer and Nic Wilson. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE allows us to better support people when they need it the most.”

“The goal is to provide support and care that may prevent a trip to the emergency room or jail,” Szewczuk continued.

The new central hub building for the Mobile Crisis Intervention Team will house offices for an on-site supervisor, Jennifer Carpenter, who is a social worker. She will do interventions and intakes for individuals. Also on staff

will be a case manager and a peer support specialist. The case manager and peer specialist will go out into the community to respond to behavioral health issues.

All three of the employees are specifically trained in mobile crisis intervention.

Niki Feller, LCMHA’s chief clinical officer, said the program will initially run during their regular business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The goal for the next three years is to expand into a second shift with staff on site.

The mental health authority also hopes to add a third shift to the program that would run during nights and weekends, using an on-call model or possibly on-site staff.

“The goal is to get this program available on weekends when people need help and reduce the need for people to end up in the emergency room,” Szewczuk said.

The Mobile Crisis Intervention Team can be reached by calling the LCMHA’s main phone number at 517-263-8905.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

LOCAL NEWS | A7

FEBRUARY 2026

IN BRIEF Update to be given on housing at former Bixby site ADRIAN — Adrian city administrator Chad Baugh said at the Jan. 5 city commission meeting that he is gathering information to present to the commission about the status of a developer’s plans for single-family rental homes on the site of the former ProMedica Bixby Hospital. Baugh told commissioners he hopes to be able to give an update in February.

Behnke to meet constituents ADRIAN — City commissioner Bob Behnke invites residents to meet with him about any issue on their minds on Wednesday, Feb 11. from 6-7 p.m. in Suite 4 of the Gallery of Shops, 136 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian.

Two new Adrian police officers sworn in ADRIAN — Two new Adrian Police Department officers were sworn in at the Adrian City Commission’s first meeting of the new year on Jan. 5.

They were introduced to commissioners by police chief Vince Emrick.

Joshua Bonaminio is a graduate of Milan High School and studied mechanical engineering at Eastern Michigan University, and most recently worked for the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Department at the Lenawee County Jail.

Carson Martelle is a graduate of Tecumseh High School who attended Adrian College, where he played football as a student and later went on to work as a campus safety officer.

Both officers attended the Wayne County Regional Police Academy and are in Phase 2 of their field training with the Adrian Police Department.

Carson Martelle, left, and Joshua Bonaminio take the oath of office as Adrian police officers while police chief Vince Emrick looks on. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

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FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

LAND & WATER

This page is dedicated to coverage of agriculture, the environment, and the intersection between the two.

To suggest story ideas, please email news@lenaweevoice.com.

MDARD accepting applications for new regenerative agriculture grant LANSING — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is now accepting applications for its new Regenerative Farmer Network Grant, which will support farmers in implementing practices that improve soil health, protect water quality and promote the long-term sustainability and profitability of Michigan agriculture.

“At a time when uncertain market access, rising production costs and low commodity prices are creating dire farm profitability levels, it’s imperative that growers have tools to keep their operations afloat,” said Tim Boring, director of the agriculture department.

“Regenerative agriculture can provide scalable and sustainable solutions to help farms become more resilient, productive and profitable in the face of these challenges. These new grants will support peer-to-peer information exchange and support the implementation of regenerative practices to achieve healthier soils and improved bottom lines.”

The Regenerative Agriculture Program is one of the first in the nation to be embedded within a state agriculture agency. The department’s Regenerative Farmer Network Grants offer awards of up to $50,000 for the creation of farmerled networks committed to: n Promoting the core principles of regenerative agriculture. n Testing new ideas and innovations related to regenerative agriculture. n Sharing the results of their regenerative agriculture practices and mentoring others.

FARM NOTES Agronomy Day: Michigan State University’s Agronomy Day in southeast Michigan will be on Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Old Mill Museum, 242 Toledo St., Dundee.

Farmers can register now by calling either Chris Galbraith at 734-240-3178 or Madelyn Celovsky at 517-768-2048.

This year, the afternoon will feature two concurrent sessions: one on corn, soybean, and wheat production topics, and the other on vegetable production topics. The event and lunch are free, but space is limited so register ahead.

Timing the market? Marketing success is not about timing the market perfectly. Farmers have only one chance to hit the high (or low) price, but two chances to hit all other prices.

Agriculture is often defined by volatility and change but also depends on planning, perspective, and partnership.

Maintaining a strong relationship with a lender that understands agriculture helps farmers make informed decisions that support their goals.

— Ned Birkey

Prospective applicants must complete the grant application available on the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development website and email it to MDARD-RFNG@michigan.gov by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27.

Prospective applicants are invited to participate in an informational webinar at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4.

All applications for Regenerative Farmer Network Grants will be subject to a competitive process with review by an evaluation committee. MDARD will prioritize grant proposals that focus on the pillars of regenerative agriculture, which include: n Maximizing biodiversity. n Minimizing soil disturbance. n Keeping soil covered. n Maintaining living roots year-round. n Integrating livestock into farming operations.

Regenerative agriculture is an approach to land management that promotes long-term farm sustainability and food security by minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing plant diversity, and integrating livestock into farming operations to improve nutrient cycling and profitability.

Regenerative practices can complement or improve conventional agriculture systems, helping farms become more resilient, productive and profitable.

Additional details about the Regenerative Farmer Network Grant application, funding priorities and eligibility criteria are available at www.michigan.gov/mdard/ business-development/grantfund/ regenerative-farmer-network-grant.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

A9

FEBRUARY 2026

SPORTS Hudson cheer aims to reclaim state crown

A photo of the Hudson High School competitive cheer team from the beginning of the season. Back row: Bailey Shaffer, Abbi Fackender, Baylee Chase, Sydney Shaffer, Megan Deline, and Elizabeth Schulte. Middle row: Paige Butts, Aliyah Trout, Scarlett James, Brooke Worrell, Emmalin Rodifer, and Aubrey Schudel. Front row: Emerson Sholl, Brooke Clark, and Darcie Marry. HUDSON AREA SCHOOLS

By Jeffrey R. Plum The Lenawee Voice

HUDSON — An urgent need turned into a lifelong commitment.

When Kelly Bailey’s daughter, Jessica, entered seventh grade and showed interest in cheerleading in 1992, the younger Bailey had no coach. Hence, Bailey stepped into the role.

The rest, they say, is history.

Bailey began her 29th season at the helm of Hudson’s varsity competitive cheer team with a win over Hillsdale on Dec. 13. The Tigers entered the 2025-26 season with an opportunity to claim their seventh Division 4 state championship in nine years.

The Tigers won their first title in 2018.

They were runners-up in 2019, then won five Division 4 titles in a row from 2020 to 2024. That streak is among the top championship reigns for competitive cheerleading in the four divisions of the Michigan High School Athletic Association. It was interrupted last year when Hanover-Horton claimed the title.

“My mom is a role model for all athletes,” said Jessica Patterson, who is now Addison High School’s principal and athletic director. “She sets high expectations and holds her athletes accountable at all times.

“The best part about her, though, is that she does this with love and intense caring,” Patterson added. “My mom

would give anything to anyone at any time. She is one of a kind.”

“Kelly was like a second mother to me while I was in high school, and over the years of coaching together, we have become good friends,” said Jacque Marry, who cheered with Jessica in school. “Kelly’s purpose has always been to encourage, push, and shape young girls and women into the best version of themselves.”

As a senior, Marry was a member of Bailey’s first team. Eventually, she joined Bailey on the sidelines and is one of her current assistants.

“She has always been able to assess her team and figure out what needs added where, and she has also always been able to assess the girls individually and knows who she can push for more,” said Marry, whose own daughters have competed and won titles under Bailey.

“I think another key to her success has been that she really doesn’t focus on her past success at all,” Marry added.

A typical competitive cheer team is allowed a maximum of 16 members on the floor during specific rounds. Bailey typically carries 18-20 members on her teams, but this year she is slightly below that, with 15 student athletes. Each stunt group consists of a flyer, two bases, and a back spot, she said.

Work for each season begins in June and culminates in the state competition in March.

Since taking over the varsity program in the 1997-98 season, Bailey changed her coaching style to fit the times. She learned a valuable lesson: As her temperament changed, the championships arrived.

“I will say when I stopped being so tough — we started winning,” said Bailey, whose beliefs include discipline and expectations. “I don’t yell; teenagers stop listening when you start yelling. I pull them in and let them take ownership.

“My seniors definitely buy into these philosophies,” Bailey added.

In addition to her responsibilities with the varsity program, Bailey also coaches two Hudson youth programs with her daughter, including her granddaughter’s third-grade team.

“The girls are what motivates me. Watching them achieve goals is extremely rewarding,” Bailey said.

“Although it is extremely enjoyable to win, the best memories come from helping teen girls with their life goals.”

The Division 4 district tournament journey begins on Feb. 19 at Addison High School. As the Tigers seek the Division 4 title, Bailey believes her team is up to the challenge.

“The competition in our division has greatly improved recently,” said Bailey.

“Our goals are to win as many titles as we can this year. There are challenges every step of the way, but we’re up for them.”

Adrian College student takes home cornhole championship MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Alex Weaver of the Adrian College cornhole team led the Bulldogs at the American Cornhole League Championships, which took place in Myrtle Beach on Jan 1-2.

The Bulldogs qualified 12 individuals who competed in the team event, singles bracket, and doubles bracket. Weaver led the Bulldogs by being crowned a national champion in the collegiate singles bracket.

“This championship is the culmination of countless hours of work put in by Alex along with our entire team,” said head coach Max Benedict.

Weaver began the singles bracket with a dominating 22-0 win. A series of strong performances propelled him to the finals, where he went on to win the 118-player single elimination bracket to be crowned national champion.

“I’m proud to bring home a national championship for Adrian College,” Weaver said. “After the last few years

of our team being overlooked, I hope that this is the start of a new chapter for Adrian College and the entire college cornhole scene.”

The Bulldogs also competed in the doubles bracket and were led by Abbie Sawicki and Carson Ashley, who advanced to the quarterfinals. Sawicki and Ashley won 21-0, 18-8, and 21-8 before falling in the quarterfinals to the eventual national champions. Abigail Trepkowski and Weaver won 24-9 and 23-5, earning two wins, while Zachary Blaylock and Ethan Freeman each earned a pair of wins after finishing 4-0 in the Round Robins to earn the No. 6 seed.

In the team event, two Adrian teams competed. One team defeated East Carolina and Oklahoma State before dropping a match to the eventual national champions. The other team defeated UW-Whitewater before falling to the national runner-up.

Alex Weaver was the national champion in the singles bracket at the American Cornhole League Championships in January. ADRIAN COLLEGE

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A10 | SPORTS

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS CALENDAR SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Bowling Sand Creek at Leslie, 8 a.m.

Competitive Cheer Adrian and Tecumseh at Adrian, 6 p.m.

Swim and Dive Tecumseh at Adrian, 6 p.m.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Boys Basketball Addison at Stockbridge, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at home vs. Whiteford, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at Jonesville, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at home vs. Manchester, 6 p.m.

Hudson at Morenci, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Fayette, 6 p.m.

Bowling Addison at Jonesville (Hudson Lanes), 3:30 p.m.

Clinton at Dundee, 4 p.m.

Madison at Blissfield (Rich Lanes), 4 p.m.

Tecumseh at Adrian (Lenawee Rec), 3 p.m.

Gymnastics Tecumseh at East Lansing, 6:30 p.m.

Hockey Lenawee United at New Boston United (Mike Modano Ice Arena), 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Boys Basketball Addison at home vs. Jonesville, 7 p.m.

Adrian at Jackson, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Morenci, 7 p.m.

Madison at Parma Western, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at home vs. Swanton, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at Hudson, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Adrian at home vs. Jackson, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Blissfield, 6 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Saginaw Heritage, 6:30 p.m.

Bowling Onsted at Ida, 4 p.m.

Competitive Cheer Addison at Napoleon (Cascades Jamboree, League Championship), 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Boys Basketball Blissfield at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at home vs. East Jackson, 6 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Morenci, 7 p.m.

Bowling Addison at Columbia Central (Jax 60), 3:30 p.m.

Madison at Hillsdale (Hillsdale Lanes), 4 p.m.

Competitive Cheer Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Hudson (LCAA Jamboree), 6 p.m.

Gymnastics Adrian at home vs. Parma Western, 6 p.m.

Tecumseh at Coldwater, 6 p.m.

Hockey Lenawee United at Chelsea (Arctic Coliseum), 5:30 p.m.

Wrestling Addison at Jonesville, 5:30 p.m.

Blissfield at Lutheran Westland, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Boys Basketball Addison at Hanover Horton, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Madison at Dundee, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Blissfield at home vs. Ida, 7 p.m.

Hudson at Clinton, 7 p.m.

Bowling Blissfield at home vs. Ida (Rich Lanes), 4 p.m.

Onsted at Clinton (Ten Pin Alley), 4 p.m.

Hudson at home vs. Dundee (Hudson Lanes), 4 p.m.

Sand Creek at home (Lenawee Rec) vs.

Hillsdale Will Carleton, 4 p.m.

Tecumseh vs. Chelsea at Ten Pin Alley, 3 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Boys Basketball Clinton at Hudson, 7 p.m.

Madison at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at Adrian, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at Hanover Horton, after JV game.

Blissfield at Ida, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Lenawee Christian, 6:15 p.m.

Onsted at Jackson Northwest, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Morenci, 7p.m.

Tecumseh at Adrian, 5:30 p.m.

Bowling Addison at Michigan Center (Suburban Lanes), 3:30 p.m.

Wrestling Addison at Leslie (Cascades Championships), 4 p.m.

Blissfield at Clinton (LCAA Duals), 6 p.m.

Hudson, Madison, Onsted at Onsted (LCAA Duals), 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Boys Basketball Madison at home vs. Marshall, 3 p.m.

Girls Basketball Madison at home vs. Marshall, 1 p.m.

Bowling Addison, Adrian, Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Singles Varsity Tournament (Lenawee Rec), 8 a.m.

Competitive Cheer Addison, Blissfield, Clinton, Morenci at Hillsdale (Hustle at the Hive), 10 a.m.

Tri-Districts at Hudson, 10 a.m.

Tecumseh at Erie Mason, 10 a.m.

Hockey

Morenci’s Talan Kruse scores during the fourth quarter of the Bulldogs’ Jan. 10 Winter Homecoming game against Fayette. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Lenawee United at Jackson United (Arctic Coliseum), 5:30 p.m.

Gymnastics

Gymnastics

Wrestling

Adrian at Livonia Churchhill, 6:30 p.m.

Adrian and Tecumseh at SEC Championships at Chelsea, 9 a.m.

Blissfield, Hudson, Madison at Onsted (LCAA Duals), 9:30 a.m.

Swim and Dive

Adrian and Tecumseh at Adrian (SCGL League Meet), 6 p.m.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Boys Basketball Tecumseh at home vs. Wyandotte Roosevelt, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at Leslie, 6 p.m.

Adrian at Ann Arbor Pioneer, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at East Jackson, 7 p.m.

Morenci at home vs. Reading, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Dundee, 7 p.m.

Bowling Blissfield at Clinton (Ten Pin Alley), 4 p.m.

Madison at Dundee (Rich Lanes), 4 p.m.

Onsted at Hudson, 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Boys Basketball Addison at Homer, 7 p.m.

Adrian at South Lyon, 7 p.m.

Blissfield at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Whiteford, 7 p.m.

Clinton at Onsted, 7 p.m.

Hudson at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m.

Madison at Ida, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Blissfield at Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Clinton, 7 p.m.

Hudson at Dundee, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at home vs. St. Mary Catholic Central, 6 p.m.

Madison at home vs. Ida, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Coldwater Pansophia, 7 p.m.

Competitive Cheer Morenci at home, 6 p.m.

Tecumseh at Erie Mason, 6 p.m.

Hockey

Hockey

Lenawee United at Allen Park (Arctic Coliseum), 8 p.m.

Lenawee United at home (Arrington Arena) vs.

New Boston United, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Boys Basketball Adrian at home vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Chelsea, 7 p.m.

Swim and Dive Adrian at Jackson, 6 p.m.

Tecumseh at Milan, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Boys Basketball

Addison at home vs. Jonesville, 6 p.m.

Adrian at Pinckney, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Morenci, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Chelsea, 5:30 p.m.

Clinton at Dundee, 7 p.m.

Hudson at Blissfield, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Ovid-Elsie, 7 p.m.

Madison at Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Ida, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.

Bowling

Girls Basketball

Girls Basketball

Hudson at Hillsdale, 4 p.m.

Competitive Cheer Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Ida (LCAA Jamboree), 6 p.m.

Wrestling MHSAA Team Districts

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Addison at home vs. Homer, 6 p.m.

Clinton at Adrian, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at home vs. Whiteford, 6:15 p.m.

Morenci at home vs. Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Pinckney, 5:30 p.m.

Bowling Britton Deerfield at Sand Creek, 4 p.m.

Boys Basketball Addison at home for Crossover Game Britton Deerfield at home vs. Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Sand Creek, 7 p.m.

Bowling

Girls Basketball

LCAA Singles Tournament (Lenawee Rec) Sand Creek at Summerfield, 9 a.m.

Blissfield at Hudson, 7 p.m.

Clinton at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m.

Madison at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Onsted at home vs. Ida, 7 p.m.

Bowling Adrian and Tecumseh at Monroe (SEC Invite at Monroe Sports Center), 10 a.m.

Blissfield at Onsted (Ten Pin Alley), 4 p.m.

Madison at home vs. Ida (Lenawee Rec), 4 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14

Competitive Cheer Addison, Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison, Morenci, Onsted at Hudson (Tri-County Invite), 10 a.m.

Tecumseh at Milford, 10 a.m.

Wrestling MHSAA Individual Districts

THE LENAWEE VOICE

SPORTS | A11

FEBRUARY 2026

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Bowling Conference Finals (singles), Jax 60

Wrestling MHSAA Individual Districts

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Boys Basketball Britton Deerfield at Manchester, 6 p.m.

Sand Creek at home vs. Vandercook Lake, 7 p.m.

Gymnastics Adrian at Fowlerville, noon

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Boys Basketball Adrian at Chelsea, 7 p.m.

Blissfield at Madison, 7 p.m.

Clinton at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Hudson at home vs. Ida, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Napoleon, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Dundee, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Pittsford, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at Ypsi Lincoln, 7 p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at Vandercook Lake, 6 p.m.

Adrian at home vs. Chelsea, 5:30 p.m.

Clinton at Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Hudson at Ida, 7 p.m.

Madison at Blissfield, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Whiteford, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Britton Deerfield, 6:15 p.m.

Onsted at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at home vs. North Adams, 6 p.m.

Tecumseh at Ypsi Lincoln, 5:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Girls Basketball Addison at home vs. Vandercook Lake, 6 p.m.

Bowling Regional Finals (Team), Jax 60

Wrestling MHSAA Team Regionals

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Boys Basketball Blissfield at Adrian, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Ida, 7 p.m.

Clinton at Homer, 7 p.m.

Hudson at home vs. Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at home vs. Hanover Horton, 7 p.m.

Madison at Jonesville, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Hillsdale, 7 p.m.

Onsted at home vs. Ann Arbor Central Academy, 6 p.m.

Sand Creek at Addison, 7 p.m.

Bowling Regional Finals (Individual), Jax 60

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Boys Basketball Britton Deerfield at Ann Arbor Christian, 7p.m.

Girls Basketball Addison at Cascade Crossover Game, 6 p.m.

Blissfield at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Sand Creek, 7 p.m.

Clinton at Madison, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Onsted at Hudson, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Whiteford, 7 p.m.

Competitive Cheer MHSAA Districts at Addison, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Bowling MHSAA Regionals

Competitive Cheer

The new Adrian High School girls wrestling team hosted its first home meet on Jan. 9.

Top photo: Natalia Rosas, the team’s only senior, celebrates a win. Above: Isabella Novak-Rojo sizes up her opponent in the neutral position. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Girls Basketball Adrian at Ypsi Community, 7 p.m.

Blissfield at Clinton, 7 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Coldwater Pansophia, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at home vs. Summerfield, 7 p.m.

Madison at Onsted, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Erie Mason, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at Whiteford, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at Jackson, 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Boys Basketball District play

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Girls Basketball Adrian at Trenton, 6 p.m.

Britton Deerfield at Dundee, 5:30 p.m.

Hudson at Hanover Horton, 7 p.m.

Lenawee Christian at Clinton, 6 p.m.

Madison at Bedford, 7 p.m.

Morenci at Blissfield, 7 p.m.

Onsted at home vs. Westland Lutheran, 7 p.m.

Sand Creek at home vs. Manchester, 7 p.m.

Tecumseh at home vs. Dexter, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Boys Basketball District play

Swim and Dive Adrian and Tecumseh at Jackson (SEC Championships)

Wrestling MHSAA Team Finals

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Bowling

Tecumseh at Dexter

State Finals

Wrestling

Competitive Cheer

MHSAA Individual Regionals

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Boys Basketball District play

Girls Basketball Clinton at home vs. Napoleon, 7 p.m.

Hudson at Hillsdale, 5:30 p.m.

MHSAA Regionals

Gymnastics Tecumseh at Plymouth, 9 a.m.

Swim and Dive Adrian and Tecumseh at Jackson (SEC Championships)

Wrestling MHSAA Team Finals

A12

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

COURT NEWS JUNE TRIAL SET IN CRASH THAT KILLED FOUR: A late June trial has been set for Matt Koester, 57, who is charged with four counts of reckless driving causing death that stem from a crash in September 2023. Four employees of K&B Asphalt Sealcoating were killed at the intersection of Milwaukee Road and Britton Highway in Macon Township when the pickup that Koester was driving struck a K&B truck traveling between work sites.

The trial is set to begin June 22, and attorneys for both sides agreed it will likely take about a week.

FORMER BANK MANAGER SENTENCED: A former manager of the Premier Bank branch in Morenci has been sentenced to three years’ probation and ordered to pay back nearly $47,000 she had been charged with embezzling from the bank and two nonprofits. Jessica Moran, 37, was told to repay first $2,764 to the Morenci PTO, then $5,055 to the Kiwanis Club of Morenci, then $39,000 to the bank. “In small organizations in small towns, any amount of money that’s taken unjustly affects the community as well as the organizations,” assistant prosecutor Phebie McClure said.

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

ADDISON Jan. 14: Larceny from a building, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

ADRIAN Dec. 19: Impersonation, 1000 block of West Maumee Street.

Dec. 20: Operating while intoxicated, West Beecher and Madison Street. Assault, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Internet harassment or threats, 600 block of Lenawee Street. Larceny from a building, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street (two reports). Drug smuggling, 500 block of North Winter Street.

Dec. 21: Operating while intoxicated, Main and Front streets. Assault, 300 block of East Beecher Street.

Dec. 22: Operating while intoxicated, North Main Street and Siena Heights Drive.

Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Vehicle theft, 300 block of Erie Street.

Dec. 23: Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 100 block of East Maumee Street.

Disorderly conduct, 1300 block of South Main Street. Assault, 800 block of Lansing Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Property damage, 400 block of Frank Street. Drug possession, 4400 block of West Maumee Street.

Dec. 24: Assault, 300 block of East Church Street. Telephone harassment or threats, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Operating while intoxicated, North McKenzie Street and Harkness Drive. Larceny from a yard, 100 block of East Maumee Street.

Dec. 25: Disorderly conduct, 800 block of East Maumee Street.

Dec. 26: Operating while intoxicated, 800 block of North Main Street. Sexual assault, 600 block of Division Street. Wire fraud, 200 block of Park Street. Sexual assault, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Operating while intoxicated, South Winter and Dawes streets.

Dec. 28: Drug possession, Tecumseh and Toledo streets.

Dec. 29: Assault, 300 block of East Church Street. Assault, 900 block of Savannah River Drive. Assault, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 900 block of East Maumee Street.

Dec. 30: Assault, 400 block of College Avenue. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Operating while intoxicated, 300 block of South Scott Street.

Dec. 31: Stalking, 900 block of East Siena Heights Drive. Assault, 600 block of Tabor Street.

Jan. 1: Assault, 800 block of Mulberry Street. Assault, 600 block of North Main Street. Assault, Center and Erie streets.

Assault, 100 block of Gorham Street.

Jan. 2: Fraud, 300 block of Cheyenne River Drive. Assault, 1000 block of South Winter

ADRIAN MAN ACCUSED OF ROBBING PAYDAY LOAN COMPANY: A 41-year-old Adrian man faces charges of robbing the Advance America payday loan company on South Main Street. Police say that Andrew Lambert Jr. was armed with a pistol when he ordered employees to turn over cash from their cash drawers and a safe. He allegedly said “my kids need this” before fleeing on foot with about $5,000.

TECUMSEH MAN PLEADS NO CONTEST TO SEX CRIME AGAINST TEEN: A Tecumseh man pleaded no contest on Jan. 14 In Lenawee County Circuit Court to seconddegree criminal sexual conduct for a May 2025 offense involving a 16 year-old girl in Tecumseh. According to Tecumseh police, Mykel Isaac, 31, had picked up the girl at an airport and later gave her alcohol, insisted she drink all of it, and sexually assaulted her. He also pleaded no contest to a felonious assault charge stemming from a shooting near Standish Dam in Tecumseh a week later. A no-contest plea is not an admission of guilt but is treated as one for sentencing purposes. The deal calls for a sentence between 5½ and 22½ years in prison.

Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 300 block of East Maumee Street. Identity theft and Illegal credit card use, 600 block of Finch Street.

Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 3: Assault, 1200 block of North Main Street. Property damage, 600 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a building, 600 block of South Main Street.

Jan. 4: Operating while intoxicated, 1000 block of Bent Oak Avenue. Assault, 1200 block of Division Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 400 block of Erie Street. Assault, 600 block of Tabor Street.

Jan. 5: Assault, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Drug possession, Park Place and East Maumee Street.

Jan. 7: Assault, 500 block of East Church Street. Drug possession, East Beecher and Center streets. Assault, 900 block of Erie Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Drug possession, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Assault and property damage, 600 block of St. Joseph Street.

Jan. 8: Vehicle theft, 300 block of East Church Street.

Jan. 9: Assault less than murder, 1400 block of Village Green Lane. Vagrancy, 800 block of Frank Street. Larceny from a building, 300 block of North McKenzie. Property damage, 800 block of East Church Street.

Jan. 10: Assault, 700 block of North Main Street. Internet harassment or threats, 500 block of Dennis Street. Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Assault, 300 block of Logan Street.

Jan. 11: Assault, 100 block of North Charles Street. Assault, 600 block of Oak Street.

Larceny from a building, 700 block of East Church Street. Operating while intoxicated, North Main and East Hunt streets.

Jan. 12: Fraud, 300 block of Erie Street.

Identity theft, 100 block of Revere Street.

Larceny, 100 block of Park Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street.

Jan. 14: Assault, 1500 block of Cedarwood Court.

Jan. 15: Larceny from a yard, 200 block of East Beecher Street. Sexual assault, 1500 block of West Beecher Road.

Jan. 16: Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 1300 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 17: Assault, 400 block of College Avenue.

Jan. 18: Assault, 200 block of East Michigan Street. Assault, 1100 block of Frank Street.

Jan. 19: Assault, 600 block of St. Joseph Street. Larceny, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 600 block of Company Street.

Jan. 20: Retail fraud, 1300 block of South Main Street.

ADRIAN TOWNSHIP Jan. 2: Fraud, 3200 block of Northmor Drive.

Jan. 9: Assault, 4800 block of Forrister Road.

Jan. 14: Assault, 1200 block of West Valley Road.

SENTENCE HANDED DOWN IN SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE: William Powers, 42, of Adrian was sentenced on Jan. 16 to between 7 and 50 years in prison after being found guilty in December of two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and one of second-degree criminal sexual conduct following a five-day trial. The April 2024 offenses involved a girl between the ages of 13 and 16 in Adrian. Adrian police say the case followed a lengthy investigation and months of work by the Michigan State Police. Prosecutors had made a plea offer, but Powers decided to go to trial, saying he wanted to clear his name.

MANITOU BEACH MAN SENTENCED: A 54-year-old Manitou Beach man has been sentenced to between two and 10 years in prison after earlier pleading guilty to child sexually abusive material charges in connection with a January 2025 offense. Harold Knight was also ordered to be placed on the sex offender registry for 15 years. He was arrested after tips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

CAMBRIDGE TOWNSHIP Dec. 26: Assault, 10800 block of West U.S. 12.

DEERFIELD Dec. 24: Assault, 300 block of West River Street.

Dec. 30: Property damage, 400 block of West River Street.

Jan. 18: Property damage, 400 block of Carey Street.

DOVER TOWNSHIP Dec. 30: Property damage, 2700 block of Benner Highway.

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP Jan. 1: Fraud, 12900 block of Tipton Highway.

Jan. 15: Larceny from a yard, 5600 block of Pawson Road.

HUDSON Jan. 14: Assault, 400 block of Pleasant Street.

MACON TOWNSHIP Dec. 25: Operating while intoxicated, Macon Highway and Pennington Road.

MADISON TOWNSHIP Dec. 19: Property damage, 3100 block of South Winter street.

Dec. 23: Assault, 2100 block of East Gier Road.

Dec. 24: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Dec. 25: Disorderly conduct, 1000 block of West U.S. 223.

Dec. 28: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Dec. 30: Larceny from a yard, 1100 block of East U.S. 223.

Dec. 31: Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street.

Jan. 2: Assault, 2200 block of East Gier Road.

Jan. 3: Vehicle theft and larceny from a vehicle, 2700 block of Parkview Drive.

Jan. 4: Assault, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 5: Fraud, 2200 block of Woodridge Drive.

Jan. 6: Larceny, 1200 block of East U.S. 223. Vehicle theft, 1200 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 9: Property damage, 1200 block of East U.S. 223. Identity theft, 2200 block of Woodridge Drive.

Jan. 10: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 15: Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 1200 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 16: Property damage, 5600 block of Bailey Highway.

Jan. 18: Burglary, 1200 block of East U.S. 223.

Jan. 20: Fraud, 2900 block of Baldwin Highway.

MEDINA TOWNSHIP Jan. 8: Assault, 12300 block of Munson Highway.

— LOCAL BUZZ RADIO

MORENCI Jan. 8: Assault, 200 block of Gorham Street.

PALMYRA TOWNSHIP Dec. 22: Illegal credit card use, 5100 block of Ogden Highway.

RAISIN TOWNSHIP Dec. 24: Property damage and burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 5600 block of Occidental Highway.

Dec. 29: Larceny from a yard, 5600 block of Occidental Highway.

Jan. 9: Assault, 3300 block of West Russell Road.

ROLLIN TOWNSHIP Jan. 16: Assault, 11600 block of Elm Park Drive.

ROME TOWNSHIP Dec. 23: Assault, 7400 block of Dudley Road.

Jan. 5: Identity theft, 8500 block of Burton Road.

Jan. 6: Larceny from a yard, 11200 block of West U.S. 223.

Jan. 20: Assault, 7300 block of Shepherd Road.

SENECA TOWNSHIP Dec. 22: Larceny, 7200 block of Packard Road.

TECUMSEH Dec. 19: Illegal credit card use, 300 block of West Kilbuck Street.

Dec. 30: Fraud, 5000 block of Macon Highway.

Jan. 3: Assault, 700 block of West Russell Road.

Jan. 6: Telephone harassment or threats, 100 block of South Division Street. Disorderly conduct, Kilbuck and Evans streets.

Jan. 10: Illegal credit card use, 200 block of North Oneida Street. Assault, 400 block of Seminole Street.

Jan. 11: Assault, 800 block of Huron Street.

Jan. 13: Operating while intoxicated, Seminole and Brown streets.

Jan. 15: Vehicle theft, 900 block of North Union Street.

Jan. 17: Larceny, 9100 block of North Union Street.

Jan. 20: Identity theft, 800 block of South Union Street. Stalking and telephone harassment or threats, 300 block of East Chicago Boulevard.

WOODSTOCK TOWNSHIP Dec. 25: Illegal credit card use, 14300 block of West U.S. 23.

Dec. 28: Operating while intoxicated, West U.S. 12 and Kathleen Court.

Jan. 13: Larceny, 4800 block of Round Lake Highway.

Jan. 15: Larceny from a building, 15900 block of Heath Road.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

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FEBRUARY 2026

from page A3

Adrian protest follows ICE shooting

literacy center. “While our structural relationship is changing, the values they instilled in this organization remain our foundation. We are energized and excited for what’s to come as we continue to grow and serve our community with renewed independence.”

The center provided one-on-one literacy tutoring to more than 80 adults last year.

The tutors are all volunteers, and the center provides training.

Adult Spelling Bee fundraiser planned: As the Adrian Rea Literacy Center enters its new chapter, the center is inviting the public to its first major fundraiser as an independent entity — an Adult Spelling Bee on April 16 at the Adrian Armory Event Center.

Proceeds from the event will directly fund individualized tutoring for local residents. For event tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to learn more about volunteering at the literacy center, visit www.adrianrealiteracy.org.

ADRIAN — With signs, flags, and chants of “ICE murdered Renee Good,” about 150 people gathered in front of the old Lenawee County Courthouse on Jan. 10 in the wake of a shooting in Minneapolis three days earlier that left a woman dead.

In the incident, 37-year-old Renee Good was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent during a confrontation in a residential neighborhood of South Minneapolis. Shortly after the shooting, President Donald Trump alleged in a social media post that Good “violently, willfully, and viciously ran over the ICE Officer,” while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey characterized the shooting as “a federal agent recklessly using power that resulted in somebody dying.”

Videos of the shooting show Good putting her SUV into reverse and backing away, then turning her wheel to the right, away from the agent, and beginning to drive forward, at which point the agent opened fire. Videos from the scene also show agents refusing to allow bystanders,

Literacy center

Residents gather for a protest at the Lenawee County Courthouse on Jan. 10 in the wake of the shooting of Renee Good. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE including one who identified himself as a doctor, to provide medical aid.

One sign at the protest displayed a list of people who were shot by agents or who died while in ICE custody.

According to a report in The Guardian, 32 people died in ICE custody in 2025,

the highest number in about 20 years.

In addition to Adrian, the Michigan communities where protests arose in the days following the shooting include Grand Rapids, Battle Creek, Grand Haven, Kalamazoo, Detroit, Paw Paw, Crystal Falls, and Lansing.

Adrian residents tour city’s water treatment plant

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Adrian residents who were curious about where their drinking water comes from and how it’s treated got an opportunity to see how the city’s water treatment plant works at a recent open house.

Will Sadler, Adrian’s utilities director, hosted the Jan. 13 open house, which drew some two dozen interested participants.

The visitors learned about the plant’s operation in a PowerPoint presentation and then took a tour of the facility.

Ten employees work at the water treatment plant, including the superintendent, a chief operator, plant operators, and mechanics/relief operators. The plant is staffed 24 hours a day.

The history of a water utility in Adrian goes back more than 150 years.

According to information on the city’s website, in 1873 civil engineer Pete Hogan reported to the city council on ways to provide water to the approximately 10,000 people in the city at the time.

Hogan’s opinion was that Wolf Creek, being largely spring-fed, should be the water source as opposed to the River Raisin, which even at that time was contaminated with “sewage and other impurities.” He suggested that a pumping site be constructed where Wolf Creek and the River Raisin meet.

Although the city’s water facilities have been located at different sites over the years, today’s water treatment plant is located at 815 Bent Oak Ave., which is just across the street from where Hogan suggested the city’s water plant should be.

Wolf Creek was dammed to create Lake Adrian in 1942 and the plant opened on its shore in 1944. It has been expanded several times over the years and today has a maximum capacity of 8 MGD (million gallons per day), although in actuality its capacity is closer to 6 or 6.5 MGD. The average daily water usage in the plant’s service area, which includes the city of Adrian and a relative handful of customers outside the city limits, is 3 MGD. In the summertime, that usage can be around 4.5 MGD.

Plant superintendent Nathan Kane explains the water treatment process during a tour of the city of Adrian’s water treatment plant on Jan. 13. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE Sadler’s presentation took the open house’s visitors through an extensive exploration of all things water treatmentrelated in the city, from where the water starts its journey to Adrian to where it’s stored, how it’s treated, and some of the issues involved.

Most of the city’s water, as that longago engineer Pete Hogan suggested, comes from the Wolf Creek watershed beginning in the northwest part of the county at Loch Erin and ends up in Lake Adrian. In 2008 several groundwater wells were brought online as well.

For much of the year, the water city residents get is a 50/50 blend of Lake Adrian water and groundwater. That ratio tilts more toward groundwater in the summertime because there’s a greater amount of organics in the lake’s water that time of year, and those organics are difficult to treat.

Sadler said that two natural organic compounds — geosmin and 2-MIB — are responsible for the city’s wellknown issues with taste and smell.

The compounds are non-toxic, so the

water is perfectly safe to drink, but as it happens, human noses and taste buds tend to be especially susceptible to detecting them.

“We’ve been dealing with it since 1944,” when the plant opened, Sadler said. The issue is that these compounds are not easily treatable using traditional municipal-scale filtration methods, although home filtration systems can help.

But while “groundwater is always the best option,” since lake water poses some treatment challenges due to the organics present in it, “the problem is it’s not there,” Sadler said.

A wellfield on Hamilton Highway provides the groundwater the city uses for part of its drinking water, but the search for new groundwater sources on the scale needed to provide municipal water has been going on “for more than 50 years,” he said.

The PowerPoint presentation also explained the plant’s process for treating its water and the methods used.

That process actually starts in Lake Adrian itself, with algae control methods

involving copper sulfate put into the water and the deployment of a sonic wave generator that causes the algae to sink to the bottom where it doesn’t reproduce.

When the water comes into the plant, the solid materials in it are allowed to settle out and the water is treated with lime to soften it, a small amount of fluoride, chlorine for disinfection, and ortho-polyphosphate to control pipe corrosion. Other processes control the pH level and help with the taste and odor situation caused by the organic compounds.

The sludge left over from the lime treatment process is pumped into the pond across Bent Oak, where once a year a company removes it and sells it to area farmers for pH control on their fields.

When Sadler completed his presentation, the open house concluded with a tour of the facility conducted by Nathan Kane, the plant’s superintendent.

Sadler plans to hold a similar open house at the city’s wastewater treatment facility later this year.

A14

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

PERSPECTIVES Addiction spares no zip code “If I don’t change, my life will not get better.”

Those were my son Daniel’s words — an “aha” moment of clarity, the springboard for hope and change for those fighting addiction.

Daniel battled anxiety, addiction, and alcohol — and ultimately, alcohol prevailed.

His death created a vacuum in my heart and soul.

Grief rushed in to fill it.

This is painful to write. It conjures the joyful moment when this precious little boy came into our lives — and how, over time, we watched that joy slip away, replaced by anxiety and alcohol addiction.

Addiction and mental illness are real.

So is recovery — through introspection, diagnosis, treatment, and support.

No, people battling these brain diseases cannot simply “stop” and get over it.

Addiction will kill you. And it will rip the heart and soul from those who love you, as parents, family, and friends struggle to provide encouragement for treatment — along with love and support — while trying not to feed the fire of addiction.

I love my son. Even when I was angry and sad about some of his behaviors and choices.

I, his mother, and his friends all tried to support his sobriety. In the end, perhaps we wanted it more for him than he wanted it for himself.

Yes, I second-guessed my parenting — how I let my son down, how I disappointed him — while intellectually and professionally knowing that alcoholism is a disease, and the disease is not me.

Be clear: addiction and mental health issues skip no zip code. They do not care about titles, economic status, professional degrees, or the power one thinks they possess.

Few families escape the horrors of trying to secure the help, care, and support needed on the long road to recovery for someone they love.

Letters to the Editor should be 300 words or fewer and may be emailed to letters@lenaweevoice.com.

Please include your town of residence and a phone number for verification purposes.

TOM WATKINS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

What do protests accomplish? Look closely It’s fair to ask what a protest really accomplishes beyond the signs, slogans, and raised voices. The gathering of 150 residents at the Old Lenawee Courthouse on a 38-degree Saturday on January 10th might have seemed like a fleeting moment of noise to a casual observer. But beneath the surface,

Michigan’s rate of alcohol-related deaths is slightly higher than the national average.

In 2023, alcohol-involved traffic crashes resulted in 297 fatalities. The annual per capita death rate from excessive alcohol use in Michigan increased by more than 40 percent between 2015 and 2019. An average of 4,548 deaths each year in Michigan are attributable to excessive alcohol use.

Nationally, more than 178,000 deaths — approximately 120,000 men and 59,000 women — are attributed to excessive alcohol use.

A tremendous loss of love and life.

I still feel a tinge of shame and stigma when admitting this painful family truth.

That stigma — yes, it is there — hurts as well.

Stigma remains a major barrier to people getting the behavioral health care and support they need.

I have spent years working in the behavioral health field, serving as Michigan’s state mental health director under former Governor James Blanchard, and as president and CEO of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network.

I know better.

And yet, I admit the fear, embarrassment, shame, and judgment still cling to me like cheap cigar smoke in a darkened bar. We must defeat stigma if we are to give people a real chance at life.

Personally and professionally, I have witnessed the joy that comes when individuals are ready for help and the health care system is there to meet them. I have also felt deep pain watching disease prevent people from accessing help — or worse, when a bureaucratic and underfunded system failed them.

We can — and must — do better.

Today, my grief comes in waves: disbelief and denial, anger and guilt, moments of comfort, and the search for ways to move forward — not on — as I gradually adjust to and accept this profound loss.

The sadness slowly evaporates, though despair still lingers beneath the surface, replaced more often now by memories of love, acceptance, forgiveness, and gratitude for the time Daniel and I had — rather than the time we did not.

As a society, we must do better.

We must educate people that help is available, provide resources to strengthen chronically underfunded public mental health systems, and eradicate the stigma that prevents people from seeking help.

I owe my ongoing recovery from this tragic loss to three invaluable community resources: n Growth Works, supporting individuals and families navigating substance use treatment (gwcares.org). n New Hope Center for Grief Support, Northville (newhopecenter.net). n National Alliance on Mental Illness — Michigan (NAMI-MI), the largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of people living with serious mental illness and their families (namimi.org).

Help is available. You can always begin by calling 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

These organizations are saving lives and are worthy of our community’s support.

With support, recovery is possible.

something much more profound was taking place: the strengthening of our local democracy.

The “ICE Out For GOOD” vigil was born from a place of deep grief, honoring Minneapolis resident Renee Good and others who lost their lives to ICE actions in 2025. We stood in the cold because Renee was killed in a hail of gunfire that police later called completely unjustified.

What passing drivers may have missed was the vital civic work happening on the sidewalk. Between

chants, neighbors shared information about upcoming elections, gathered signatures for U.S. House ballots, and connected first-time protesters with veteran organizers to discuss lawful ways to stay involved. Leaders from local organizations exchanged strategies to keep our community informed and resilient.

The response by drivers was telling.

Critical comments were drowned out by enthusiastic honks and supportive thumbs-up from those passing by.

While local media helped these

concerns reach beyond the street corner, the real impact was felt right there on the pavement.

Protests remind us that democracy isn’t a distant concept managed in far-off capitals. It happens here, in our own backyard, when residents show up and choose to stay involved. We are now a connected network ready to keep organizing and participating in the life of our democracy.

The national tragedy — the alleged murder of actor and producer Rob Reiner’s parents, Michele and Carl Reiner, by their son who reportedly battled mental illness and addiction since adolescence — brought this pain flooding back.

If you are shaking your head thinking, “Not me,” don’t be so sure. Just wait.

The news is devastating. You soon realize how helpless you are unless — and until — your loved one chooses recovery and sobriety. And even then, that choice is only one moment, one day at a time.

Alcohol — and stigma — kill

Tom Watkins served Michigan citizens as deputy chief of staff to Governor Blanchard, director of the former state department of mental health, and state superintendent of schools. This column was distributed by the nonprofit newsroom Michigan Advance (michiganadvance.com).

—­Judith Hammerle, Adrian

FEBRUARY 2026

A15

Harvest Chocolate

and more, along with selling some non-chocolate items made by other Michigan-based artisans and even several flavors of ice cream.

Besides their storefront operation, the couple does a very brisk business across the country through their website, harvestcraftchocolate.com. Some of their products can also be found at select locations across Lenawee County, nearby in Ann Arbor and Brooklyn, and in a number of other Michigan cities.

The store hosts regular chocolate tastings led by Maya Gangadharan, the shop’s “coordinator of chocolate experiences.”

Participants get the full “bean to bar” experience, learning about where the chocolate comes from, how the beans are harvested and processed, and how Harvest Chocolate makes its products, all while getting to sample a curated lineup of different chocolates.

The next tasting is coming up at 2 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, Feb. 14. Reservations are required at $30 each and can be purchased at harvestcraftchocolate.com. Space is limited.

Harvest Chocolate’s current business hours are noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

from page A1 world. The trees put out flowers that, in turn, create seed pods. These pods are harvested and cut open to remove the seeds.

“They’re called cocoa beans but they’re really a seed,” Cross said.

The beans are then covered over and allowed to ferment, the process that brings out the beans’ flavor. Finally, they’re dried and bagged up for shipping.

Gentry and Cross source their beans from several different countries including Ecuador, Uganda, the Dominican Republic, India, and Guatemala.

The supply network they work through ensures the beans they buy are sustainably and ethically grown, with the farmers involved being paid fairly for their work.

The beans arrive at Harvest Chocolate in raw form, so the first step in making chocolate is to roast them, a small-batch process that is different depending on which country the beans come from.

“After the beans themselves, the next biggest impact on flavor is the roasting,” Gentry said.

Once the roasting process is complete, the beans are allowed to cool and then they’re cracked open to remove the nibs inside. The nibs are what become chocolate. But the shells are used to make the shop’s chocolate teas, so nothing ends up being wasted.

A collection of bean-to-bar treats on display at Harvest Chocolate’s downtown Tecumseh store.

The nibs go into a grinder, where they turn into a smooth, thick liquid in a process that takes a couple of days to complete.

Organic cane sugar is the only thing added at this point; later, ingredients such as fruit, nuts, peppermint, or spices like cinnamon or thyme might be added depending on what’s being made.

Some of those added ingredients are sourced from nearby operations.

The apples, for example, come from just down the road at Kapnick Orchards, while the rhubarb used to make the shop’s strawberry-rhubarb swirl chocolate comes from a 97-year-old farm in Traverse City.

After the chocolate is tempered — a process of careful heating and cooling that gives the chocolate its structure,

shine, and shelf life — and any flavors are added, the chocolate is molded and allowed to set. Finally, the resulting creations are wrapped and ready for sale.

Not surprisingly, all that chocolatemaking leads to a tempting scent wafting through the shop, but the couple has actually become pretty inured to it.

“We really don’t smell it anymore,” Gentry said, laughing. “People will come in and say ‘It smells so good!’ but we don’t smell it.”

Gentry and Cross make dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate in a wide variety of flavors and forms including bars, bagged pieces, and shapes such as hearts for Valentine’s Day. Some of their flavors are year-round, while others are seasonal offerings.

They also make hot chocolate powders, a variety of chocolate teas,

Harvest Chocolate

110 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh harvestcraftchocolate.com 517-301-4023

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY AMBER HUNT, D.V.M. NICOLE SHUTTE, D.V.M. SUSAN GRIFFES, D.V.M.

BLISSFIELD VETERINARY SERVICE 8353 US 223, Blissfield, MI 49228 Phone: 517-486-4395 Email: blissfieldveterinaryservice@gmail.com Website: www.blissfieldvetservice.com

To advertise in this space, call 313-300-2300 or email publisher@lenaweevoice.com

A16

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Lenawee Youth Council announces grants for local projects » PAGE B3

NEIGHBORS

Local Goodwill names new president and CEO » PAGE B8

THE LENAWEE VOICE SECOND SECTION FEBRUARY 2026

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Delma Bosquez-Munoz, center, accepts the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award from Pamela Hall, right, while her daughter, Veronica Perez, looks on. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Community service recognized

By Erik Gable

The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Veronica Perez still remembers what her mother, Delma Bosquez-Munoz, would say to her children on mornings when she didn’t need to go to work.

“As soon as me and my late sister would get up,” Perez recalled, “she would comb our hair and she would say ‘Mommy doesn’t have to work today, so we’re going to work in the community.’ ” Bosquez-Munoz was presented with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award on Jan. 19 at the annual community celebration held in King’s honor. The lunch event took place at Adrian College.

In addition, state Sen. Joe Bellino (R-Monroe) presented Bosquez-Munoz with a tribute signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, state Rep. Nancy Jenkins, and himself.

See SERVICE, page B2

Christina Villalobos, foreground, takes part in a Nov. 8 event at the Lenawee Intermediate School District Tech Center to build beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace. The Tech Center hosted the build and St. John’s Lutheran Church sponsored it. Fifty beds were built at the event, and they were delivered by volunteers to kids around Lenawee County the following Saturday. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LISD

Charity that makes beds for children in need is expanding to Lenawee County

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

For most children, having their own comfortable, safe bed to sleep in is something they can take for granted. But if a family is in need — perhaps they’re in transitional housing, or they’ve lost their household goods in a fire or other disaster, or beds are an expense they can’t afford given other needs, like putting food on the table — nighttime for those kids means sharing a bed or even sleeping on the floor.

The non-profit group Sleep in Heavenly Peace, which builds twinsize beds for children in need, wants to

change that in Lenawee County. First, its Monroe County chapter introduced itself to Lenawee last year with a “bed build” done in conjunction with the LISD Tech Center. Next, a new Lenawee chapter will be up and running by late spring or early summer.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace was founded in 2012 by Luke Mickelson in Twin Falls, Idaho. It was Christmastime, and when he heard about a child who needed a bed he and some friends got together, went to Lowe’s to get the supplies, and built one.

Since then, according to Tim Taylor, who heads the Monroe County chapter, the organization has expanded to 444

chapters across the U.S., Canada, and in Bermuda, and at last count has delivered some 343,000 beds to children at a current pace of nearly 75,000 a year.

“It’s an amazing organization,” Taylor said.

Taylor got involved with Sleep in Heavenly Peace after seeing firsthand what a child’s not having a bed can do. As an EMT, he responded to an apartment where a family of five was living. All the family members were sleeping on air mattresses — and when one of the mattresses deflated, the child sleeping on it died of suffocation.

See BEDS, page B2

B2 | NEIGHBORS

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Lenawee Right to Life plans annual high school oratory contest ADRIAN — The Lenawee County chapter of Right to Life of Michigan will present its annual oratory contest for high school students on Friday, March 6.

The contest invites students to research, write and deliver a five- to seven-minute speech on one of the following topics: abortion, infanticide, euthanasia, or embryonic stem cell research and human cloning.

Winners of the contests hosted by local Right to Life affiliates will have the opportunity to compete at the state level.

The state competition will be on April 18 at Mount Hope Church in Lansing.

State winners (juniors and seniors only) will compete at the national level on June 13 in Arlington, Virginia.

The winner of last year’s local contest was Holly Mitchell.

Beds from page B1 “When you lose a child like that, it doesn’t make the news … but this is a family that went through a tragedy,” he said. “It was such a preventable, needless death. I want to help that not happen to any other family.”

Even without such a shattering event happening, “bedlessness is an undiscussed trauma,” Taylor’s wife, Megan, who serves as the Monroe chapter’s delivery coordinator and family liaison, said.

“For a child, it’s not just a bed. It’s building their self-esteem.”

And for many families in need, the cost of a bed, which on the low end could be four to five hundred dollars for the bed and bedding, is too much. “Bed or food? Bed or keeping the lights on?”

Megan said.

For many of the children the Monroe chapter serves, “the kids are 6, 8, 10 years old and it’s the first bed they ever had. … There isn’t a better joy than when you

Service from page B1 “Throughout her life, Delma has been actively involved in numerous community service efforts, with particular dedication to supporting the migrant community,” Bellino said.

“Even while facing significant health challenges, she continued to gather and deliver essential supplies, personally traveling to migrant camps to ensure that families’ basic needs were met. Through her actions, she also inspired and trained others to serve with compassion, dignity and respect.”

He also noted her service to survivors of domestic violence, assisting Spanishspeaking residents as an interpreter, among many other volunteer activities.

Her daughter told the audience about the many ways she has made life better for people in the community. Then,

Chris Howard of the Lenawee Intermediate School District works on a bed during a build event at the LISD Tech Center for Sleep in Heavenly Peace. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LISD see these kids’ faces,” Tim added.

The seeds of the planned Lenawee County chapter were planted last June

turning to her mother, she said: “Mom, your sacrifices were never made in vain.”

Bosquez-Munoz accepted the Community Service Award from Pamela Hall, a member of the committee that plans the annual celebration.

She gave this charge to those in the audience: “Try to be a hero for somebody. Make a difference in someone’s life.”

The Rev. Robert H. Benard, founder, senior pastor and bishop of Christ Temple Ministries in Adrian, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. He was introduced by the Rev. Deanne Henagan and by his wife and son, Andre’a and Aaron Benard.

Benard spoke about honoring differences between people while also coming together.

“I need you, and you need me. We need to stop trying to allow the culture to dictate our uniqueness and take it away from us. As long as we stay with the

The entry deadline is March 2. For more information, call 517-442-9521 or 517-902-6927.

Focus on Life Benefit Dinner: Lenawee Right to Life will host its annual Focus on Life Benefit Dinner at 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 16, at The Centre, 1800 U.S. 223, Adrian.

The guest speaker will be the Rev. Christopher I. Thoma of Our Savior

Evangelical Lutheran Church & School in Hartland.

Tickets for the benefit dinner are $50 per person ($30 for students), or $320 for a table of eight. Reservations are due by April 1.

For more information, contact Julie Moore, president of the Lenawee County affiliate, at 517-902-3099 or email lenaweer2l@gmail.com.

when Tim began working with the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties, the Community Action Agency, and Chris Howard of the Lenawee Intermediate School District to find out how to serve this area.

Then, Tim heard from Pastor Joel Sarrault of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Adrian. Sarrault had been involved with Sleep in Heavenly Peace elsewhere and wanted to help, and the end result was that two of his parishioners, Keith and Brenda Hill, became the point people for SHP locally.

“They’re committed to opening the chapter here,” Tim said of the couple, and once volunteers are trained the chapter will be operational, probably by May or June.

“So it started out with a conversation about serving the county, and in less than a year, we’re going to have a full chapter here.”

Families in need of beds for their children can go online to www.shpbeds. org — or other people can do it for them if they lack internet capability — and there apply for a bed from their closest

chapter. Locally, the Monroe chapter will continue to handle requests until the Lenawee chapter is operational.

The only questions asked have to do with the number of children, their ages, and their sleeping conditions. When beds are built and available, Megan works to get the necessary bedding — even tailoring it to each child’s interests — and coordinates the delivery, assembling the beds in the home.

“I love seeing the kids when they jump into that bed,” Tim said. “It’s probably the first time they’ve ever had a new bed, mattress, pillow, and bedding.”

After that, the families can reach out to Megan if there are needs to be met.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace relies on monetary and other donations and the work of volunteers to assemble the beds.

No particular experience with tools is needed to participate in a bed build.

Information on upcoming builds or on donating can be found by connecting with the local chapter through shpbeds. org or Facebook. Until the Lenawee chapter opens, the Monroe chapter is at facebook.com/SHPMonroeCoMI.

Aaron Benard introduces his father, the Rev. Robert H. Benard, at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on Jan. 19.

ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

uniqueness that God created in us, we must learn how to need each other. And as we learn to need each other, there is nothing impossible for us to do.”

The event also honored the memory of Sister Jamie Phelps, OP, a member of the Adrian Dominican Congregation and a leading scholar of Black Catholicism, who died in November. Sister Elise Garcia, OP, prioress of the congregation, was present to speak about Phelps’ life and career.

Student awards were presented to Rolen Maclin from Adrian College, Kimberly Delgado from Siena Heights University, and Lila Mouton-Howard from Jackson College.

The keynote address was given by Leland Harper, a professor at Siena Heights University, who delivered reflections on the celebration’s theme for this year, “If I cannot do great things, I will do small thing in a great way.”

He urged attendees to reflect on the small things that other people do that make a difference for them, as well as the small things they do that make a difference for others.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

NEIGHBORS | B3

FEBRUARY 2026

Lenawee Youth Council awards $25,000 in grants

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YOUR LOVE Members of the Lenawee Youth Council, which is a program of the Lenawee Community Foundation, include Wraiya Davis, Avery Hively, Joel Sniegowski, Zoe Ostermyer, Christopher Malone, and Kai Mendoza. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LENAWEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ADRIAN — The Lenawee Youth Council, a program of the Lenawee Community Foundation, recently announced grants to 16 organizations to support youth-based projects in Lenawee County.

The Lenawee Youth Council offers the opportunity to apply for grants up to $2,500 for local youth projects each year. These grants are funded by an endowment established more than 25 years ago with a $1 million grant from the Kellogg Foundation. The purpose was to engage youth in community philanthropy.

The Lenawee Youth Council has put more than $1.1 million into the community since the program was founded.

Paula Trentman, executive vice president of the Lenawee Community Foundation, said each grant application is reviewed by Lenawee Youth Council members, who then make recommendations to the LCF board of directors.

“These young people are deeply proud of their community and the impact these grants will have throughout Lenawee County. They make their decisions thoughtfully, considering factors such as the communities each project supports and how many youth assets will be increased,” Trentman said.

This year’s grants were awarded to: n Adrian Center for the Arts — for materials and scholarships supporting programs such as the ACA’s Kids Club, Teen Club, and youth classes. n Adrian Public Schools: To purchase paint kits for a program that will bring together 20 middle school students with residents of Lynwood Manor. n Ahimsa Safe Haven: To support youth volunteers at the Ahimsa animal rescue and help Ahimsa build its social media presence with youth volunteers. n Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee: To purchase jerseys, athletic shoes, game-grade basketballs, and referee services for tournaments in support of a basketball league hosted by the club. n Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale Counties: To place unaccompanied 17- and 18-yearolds from Lenawee County into safe and supportive mentor homes and help supplement the costs of housing another family member. n Croswell Opera House: To support a youth performance camp during Lenawee County’s spring break. n Clinton Township Library: For weekly teen and tween activities.

n Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County: To support a home build by Lenawee Intermediate School District students. n HOPE Community Center: To support activities and craft supplies, staff time, and transportation costs for HOPE members from ages 18-21 as they serve as teachers and mentors to K-12 students at the Milton C. Porter Education Center. n Housing Help of Lenawee: To support unhoused youth participation in sports, drama, field trips, and any additional extracurriculars that require money to participate. n Kiwanis Club of Hudson: To support an event for student mental health. n Kiwanis Club of Tecumseh: To purchase leaf bags, rakes, and leaf claws for fourth through eighth-graders completing yard cleanup for Tecumseh senior citizens. n Lenawee Imagination Library: To support the mailing of age-appropriate books to Lenawee County children from birth through age 5. n Madison High School: To support at-risk juniors and seniors at Madison, combining technology, mentoring, and community outreach to ensure each graduating senior has three non-parent adults who support them. n Marine Toys For Tots Foundation: To support a fishing trip for youth in foster care. n Onsted Community Schools: To support a 20-student delegation to the Michigan Youth in Goverment conference. The conference hosts a mock legislature and a mock trial team.

“The Lenawee Youth Council grants truly make a difference for youth-focused organizations across Lenawee County,” said Bronna Kahle, president and CEO of the Lenawee Community Foundation.

“These grants help create opportunities, provide resources, and strengthen programs that directly impact young people.”

Kahle added: “What makes this program so special is that it’s led by youth. The Lenawee Youth Council was created to educate and engage young people in philanthropy, giving them real, hands-on experience in grantmaking.

They’re building leadership skills, learning how to give back, and developing a deeper connection to their community. It’s inspiring to see young people helping shape the future of Lenawee County through thoughtful and meaningful grantmaking.”

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Join Lenawee Lifelong Learning for our April classes, designed for interested adults on a variety of topics.

Knowledgeable instructors donate their time and expertise. There are no tests, no papers and no grades – only fun and learning!

Pay a flat fee of $35 per semester and take as many classes as you’d like!

Spring Classes: Auschwitz History; Interests in Agriculture; Aspects of Psychology; Culture and History of Pakistan; German Prisoners of War in Lenawee County; Exploring Art, watercolors and much more; Supreme Court Function/History and a few cases; Poetry; Astronomy.

Tour: Holocaust Pop-up Museum in Adrian SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES WILL MEET ON FOUR TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS IN APRIL AT THE WEBER CENTER.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

LENAWEELIFELONGLEARNING.ORG

B4 | NEIGHBORS

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Annual soup and pie benefit honors memory of Rex Riley

By David Green

The Morenci Advocate

MORENCI — When Rex Riley retired from a term on the Morenci Area Schools Board of Education in 1979, he wrapped up 50 years of service to youngsters in the area.

The Onsted graduate began his teaching career in 1928 in a one-room school house northeast of Clayton. He later served as a teacher and principal at Rex Riley Weston High School before moving on to Morenci in 1939 for his final 40 years.

He became a beloved industrial arts teacher and later served 12 years as Morenci’s elementary school principal.

Rex Riley was praised as a teacher who cared about his students’ lives and strived to prepare them for life as adults.

As an administrator, he was known as a principal who supported teachers’ efforts to explore new ideas and techniques, helping them through their own personal growth.

Outside of school he was seen as a model citizen who forged a path for others to follow.

Adrian Breakfast Lions Club seeks new members ADRIAN — The Adrian Breakfast Lions Club is seeking new members.

The club is dedicated to helping those with vision problems, whether assisting in getting eye exams, eyeglasses, or purchasing other items for the visually impaired. The club is also active in providing funds locally for scholarships, children’s activities, and helping agencies that provide assistance to those in need in the community.

The club meets at 7:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Family Kitchen Restaurant, 2984 Treat St., Suite A, in Adrian. For more information, email adrian.lions@yahoo.com.

Kiwanis of Tecumseh: The Kiwanis Club of Tecumseh is hosting several events this month. On Feb. 3, Community Action Agency will speak on a few topics, including lead mitigation, home weatherization, and veterans. On Feb. 10, Mikayla Cole, coordinator of special populations for the LISD PREP Academy, will give a presentation. On Feb. 17, the club will recognize the January Seniors of the Month from Tecumseh High School.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

The group meets at the Tecumseh United Methodist Church, 605 Bishop Reed Drive, on Tuesday mornings from 7-8 a.m.

Zonta of Lenawee: Zonta of Lenawee meets the second Thursday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Lenawee Community Foundation, 1440 W. Maumee St., Adrian. Visit zontaoflenawee.org for information.

SERVICE CLUBS ROUNDUP

— Compiled by Julie C. Clemes

Morenci Kiwanis Club member Adam Johnson was one of those who followed.

He quietly led an effort to establish a scholarship program honoring his fellow Kiwanian.

When Rex Riley was led into the school cafeteria one night in April 1983, he was astounded to see a large “I Like Rex” poster on the wall behind the podium. Those in attendance stood to cheer “We Like Rex” as the guest was led to his seat at the head table.

Riley was lauded as a principal with principles, a shepherd to students and teachers, and a builder of men.

That night marked the beginning of the Rex Riley Kiwanis Scholarship Program.

The initial quest for donations brought in $4,000 and three $200 scholarships were awarded that year, to Janice Clelland, Nathan Elarton and Robert McVay. Since that small start, scholarships worth $225,550 have been awarded to 197 Morenci graduates.

The main fund-raising event of the year — the one that brings a few hundred people together to support the effort — is the annual Soup & Pie Supper, with this year’s meal scheduled Feb. 11 at the Morenci Eagles, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Last year, Kiwanian Matt Garrow said, the combination of meal tickets sold, raffle tickets and advertising sold,

donations and the sale of leftover food brought in nearly $8,000.

With income year after year — and through wise investing — the program now has a total of $414,824 saved.

“If we all get too old to slop soup, we can still give scholarships well into the future,” Garrow quipped.

From the start, the program has relied on some ingenuity to bring in cash. In its first year, members of the Morenci Sportsman’s Club scheduled a pig roast and donated the profits. For several years in the 1980s, Kiwanis sponsored a country and western music show to raise funds.

In 1988, a “Womanless Wedding” added to the fund, followed by a raffle for a lawn tractor. In 1991, a few Kiwanians began growing sweet corn on Roger Ries’s farm and sold it downtown.

Alta Woodby created a doll that was raffled off at the elementary school Fun Night in 1994.

From the start of the Soup and Pie Suppers, Rex Riley began crafting a piece of furniture for a raffle. Clyde Brasher later took over and then Dick Kelly.

Others have joined in from time to time, such as Chris and Scott Merillat creating a corner cabinet in 2007, and Russ Tompkins in recent years.

The largest source of revenue now is an advertising booklet supported by local merchants, organizations and individuals.

Rex Riley Soup & Pie Dinner DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

LOCATION: Morenci Eagles, 239 W. Main St., Morenci TICKETS: $10, includes all-you-can-eat soup (five soups available) and pie.

A major change in the scholarship program was approved by board members in the previous year. The decision was made to consider graduates who planned to obtain a two-year degree in addition to those heading for a fouryear program.

“We felt those students were more likely to stay in the area,” Garrow said, “and we all know there is a shortage of skilled trade folks.”

The late Adam Johnson, who spearheaded the Rex Riley award program, now has a scholarship named after him. The Adam Johnson Community Service Scholarship Fund focuses on those students who, in addition to merit, are involved in community service. Kiwanians are in charge of operating the fund.

After this year’s Rex Riley Kiwanis Scholarship awards, more than 200 students will have received a boost in paying their college expenses. That’s an effort that would make Rex Riley proud.

EBEID CENTER SCHEDULE The following activities are scheduled for February at the Ebeid Center, 801 E. Maumee St. East Adrian Community Coalition Activity Planning — Monday, Feb. 2, at 5 p.m. Help shape activities that build strong relationships among neighbors, promote a positive community spirit, and provide enriching experiences for all ages. Open to all.

Strength and Mobility (offered by the YMCA) — Mondays, Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23 at 4 p.m. This free exercise class builds strength and stability, combining functional strength training with mobility drills to improve joint health, strength, flexibility and control. For all ages and abilities.

Budgeting in the New Year (presented by Community Action Agency) — Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 5:30 p.m. This class will focus on a personal budget and spending habits for the new year.

East Adrian Community Coalition Meeting — Monday, Feb. 9, at 5 p.m. The coalition meets on the second Monday of every month. Let your voice be heard and contribute to the conversation about how residents can impact their community.

Specialty Yoga for Seniors (offered by the YMCA) — Tuesdays, Feb. 10, 17 and 24 at 4 p.m. A free seven-week series appropriate for all skill levels.

Mental Health First Aid (offered by Community Mental Health) — Wednesdays, Feb. 11 and 18, from 4-7:30 p.m. This class teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults. This is a blended class with two hours of online self-paced work and 6.5 hours of instructorled sessions over two weeks.Registration is required.

Starting Seeds (offered by the Lenawee Conservation District) —Thursday, Feb. 12, from 6-7 p.m. Ready for spring? It’s time to get your outdoor seeds started for

SUPPORT GROUPS Celebrate Recovery: A Christcentered recovery group meeting Saturdays at 9 a.m. at Ogden Church, 3201 East U.S. 223, Adrian. Contact Roger or Theresa Miller, 517-215-5754 or theresamillercr@yahoo.com.

Good Grief: Free drop-in group for adults widowed earlier in life, meeting on the second Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Hospice of Lenawee, 1903 Wolf Creek Hwy.,

The Ebeid Center is located inside Comstock School at 801 E. Maumee St. in Adrian. the garden of your dreams. We will start seeds for native pollinator plants that you can bring home to your own garden.

You are welcome to bring seeds for your favorite veggies and flowers, as well.

Soundtrack to Success: Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. An interactive workshop blending music and career development. Discover 10 career tips inspired by legendary artists, using classic songs to highlight essential soft skills that drive professional success. Adults and kids ages 12 and up are welcome.

Fathers of Lenawee (facilitated by De’Angelo Boone) — Tuesday, Feb. 24, from 4-5 p.m. All Lenawee County fathers are invited to be a part of this group.

For more information about any Ebeid Center programs, email AdrianENP@ProMedica.org or call 517-264-1365.

Adrian. Contact Heather Popkey or Karen Cheney at 517-263-2323.

Fathers of Lenawee: Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 4-5 p.m. at the Ebeid Center, 801 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Al-Anon Meetings: Tuesdays at noon, NewSong Church, 5211 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh.

Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Madison Church of the Nazarene, 3993 Treat Hwy., Adrian.

Thursdays at 6 p.m., NewSong Church, 5211 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh.

Thursdays at 7 p.m., All Saints Episcopal Church, 151 N. Main St., Brooklyn.

Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh.

Sundays at 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1245 W Maple Ave., Adrian.

To submit a support group listing or report any corrections or changes, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

NEIGHBORS | B5

FEBRUARY 2026

It’s a gas Living in a wooded area, my beloved wife Marsha and I see a lot of deer.

They actually do a good job with the lawn mowing and pruning, as well as taking care of fertilizing the ground.

Neither of us get tired of seeing them whether they are grazing, sleeping, running, tending their fawns, showing off their antlers or trying to raid the bird feeder.

“Two in the back yard!” Marsha announces.

I get up from my customary perch on my chair and walk to the nearest window. “Ah, yes!”

Deer are such lovely creatures unless seen through a car’s windshield.

We recently returned from a visit with our children and perfect grandchildren, who live in the most urban part of Florida. There are plenty of deer in Florida, including the little Key Deer, but if there are any around our kids’ houses, we haven’t seen them.

There is, however, plenty of wildlife to view, some native and much of it invasive, such as the multitude of various species of iguanas. Some are little and bright green. Others are mostly brown and huge — maybe 5 feet long. Plenty are in between, with various colors and sizes.

When it gets cold, they lock up and fall out of trees, so the news people warn of raining iguanas during a cold snap.

Native lizards are also plentiful. Where in Michigan we see moles and voles, in Florida we see anoles. Recently, a crocodile was seen across the canal.

Birds of all sorts are plentiful. Ospreys, egrets, parakeets, pretty Egyptian geese,

COLLEGE NEWS Capital University: Aiden Mahony of Adrian was named to the President’s List for Fall 2025.

Cedarville University: Rachel Powers of Adrian was named to the Dean’s Honor List for Fall 2025. Korah Daniels and Elizabeth Driskill, both of Adrian, were named to the Dean’s List.

Kalamazoo College: JT Hill and Claire Rhames, both of Adrian, were named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2025.

Miami University: Meredith Vontroba of Adrian was named to the President’s List for Fall 2025.

Ohio Wesleyan University: Emma Briggs of Adrian was named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2025.

Southern New Hampshire University: Morgan June, Rylee Nieto and Donald Stephens, all of Adrian, were named to the President’s List for Fall 2025. Collin Castleberry of Adrian was named to the Dean’s List.

Trine University: Evan Cole and Cassidy Hawken, both of Adrian, were named to the President’s List for Fall 2025. Nicholas Stuart and Lauren Swiggum, both of Adrian, were named to the Dean’s List. Sarah Pfister of Adrian earned an associate degree in nursing.

University of Maryland Global Campus: Cody Glumb of Adrian was named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2025.

To submit news for this column, please email news@lenaweevoice.com.

JIM WHITEHOUSE jays, crows, ibises, burrowing owls and many others.

All these things are so common one soon gets numb to them.

“There’s a great blue heron out in the canal,” Marsha says.

“Yup,” I say, staying put in whatever chair I’m occupying.

The big thrill that brings the entire family out to the canal behind Jill’s house is a manatee sighting.

Seeing a 3,000 pound critter that looks like a gigantic slug with a face like a mutant potato is something to see!

“Manatee!” hollers grandson George who is out playing in the yard. Doors open and everyone runs out to see.

One day, we were all out on the little dock in the canal when three of them came right up to us to ask us what all the fuss was about. One big sea-cow

rolled over on her back to show off her unscarred gray belly. In addition to the three at the dock, two more were evident a few yards down the canal.

Evident? What evidence is there of a manatee that is underwater, out of view?

“There’s one!” says Jill, pointing.

“I see it!” I say, noting a cloud of bubbles bursting on the surface of the water 30 yards away.

A sleeping manatee can hold its breath for up to 20 minutes. Even when actively moving about in search of plants to eat, they can stay submerged for 6 minutes.

So what’s with the bubbles? Are they letting air out of their lungs?

“What are the bubbles?” asks granddaughter Alice.

“Toots,” says Grandma Marsha. “They have a lot of gas.”

Fortunately, the intestinal gas seems to be of the unscented variety, at least from where we stand along the canal.

When we went whale watching in Alaska a few years ago, we soon learned that when a humpback whale spouts upwind, the smell of its breath is worse than the stink of a fellow airplane passenger’s tuna fish sandwich.

Thus, the unscented but plentiful flatulence of a manatee is a bit of a blessing.

Jim Whitehouse grew up in Morenci, practiced law in Hudson, and now lives in Albion.

B6 | NEIGHBORS

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

CLINTON ROTARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

The Clinton Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for December was Camdenne Kruse. She holds a 4.286 GPA and her extracurricular activities include theater, Girl Scouts, Earth Club, National Honor Society, and International Club. Her community service includes volunteering with the DPP School of Early Learning, Neighbors of Hope women’s and children’s shelter, and the Croswell Opera House. She plans to pursue a degree in theater arts and business at either the University of Michigan or Eastern Michigan University. She is pictured here with Rotarian Jim Rolland and her parents, Garvin and Mandy Kruse.

The Clinton Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for January was Ginger Wahl. She holds a 4.031 GPA and received scholar athlete awards for bowling and soccer. She is enrolled in the education careers program at the LISD Tech Center and is involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society, and plans to become an elementary school teacher. She is pictured here with Rotary Club president Steve Clegg and her parents, Jill and Justin Wahl.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

FEBRUARY 2026

IN BRIEF

Shannon DeSloover of Share the Warmth accepts a donation funded by Cadmus Presbyterian Church’s House of Change.

House of Change drive benefits Share the Warmth shelter ADRIAN — About $437 that was raised by members of Cadmus Presbyterian Church was donated to Share the Warmth of Lenawee on Dec. 14. Each year during the months of August through November, Cadmus Presbyterian Church members and its Mission Committee collect coins for the church’s traditional House of Change.

Longtime Cadmus Presbyterian Church member George Green began the program more than 20 years ago. He built a “House of Change” that represented the organization’s structure, and served as a donation vestibule for the coin drive.

Adrian library’s Friends group to meet on Feb. 14 ADRIAN — The Friends of the Adrian District Library will be holding its next meeting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, in the meeting room of the library. All are welcome to attend.

For more information about the Friends group, including how to become a member, visit the library’s website, adrian.lib.mi.us.

The Adrian District Library is located at 143 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian.

Madison Roberts joins team at community foundation ADRIAN — Lenawee County will benefit from added capacity to support local needs with the addition of Madison Roberts as the Lenawee Community Foundation’s Herrick Foundation Grants & Programs Fellow.

This new role is focused on listening, learning, and working alongside community partners, according to a news release.

The fellowship is Madison Roberts funded through the Rural Community Foundation Fellowship initiative, supported by the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation and the Herrick Foundation.

Roberts holds a bachelor’s degree in public health and a master’s degree in public health policy and law from the University of Toledo. She previously worked at the YMCA of Greater Toledo.

She is a lifelong resident of Adrian.

“I am honored and excited to join the Lenawee Community Foundation and give back to the community that helped shape who I am today,” Roberts said. “What drew me to this role was the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy while supporting programs that truly put Lenawee County first. I’m grateful to be part of a team that works every day to make a meaningful difference.”

NEIGHBORS | B7

B8 | NEIGHBORS

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Goodwill names new leader ADRIAN — Arden Floran is the new president and chief executive officer of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan as of Jan. 12.

Floran will lead the organization in advancing its mission to provide pathways to independence through employment, training, and supportive services, according to a news release.

He has experience in nonprofit management, workforce development, and organizational transformation.

“Arden Floran is an exceptional leader whose values and vision align powerfully with Goodwill’s mission,” said Frank Hribar, board chair for Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan.

“Following a comprehensive national search, the board is confident that Arden’s experience, strategic insight, and passion for workforce development will position Goodwill for continued growth and impact across Southeastern Michigan.”

As president and CEO, Floran will oversee Goodwill’s retail, employment, training, and human services operations, while guiding long-term strategy, financial stewardship, and community engagement.

“I am honored to join Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan and inspired by the organization’s

Arden Floran has been named the new president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan. legacy of service and impact,” Floran said. “Goodwill plays a vital role in strengthening communities by empowering individuals through work.

I look forward to partnering with the board, staff, donors, and community leaders to expand opportunities and deepen our impact throughout the region.”

Learning about technology doesn’t need to overwhelm Computers, tablets, televisions, phones, watches, doorbells, printers, and even vehicles — what do they all have in common? Technology. It’s a word that can both excite and intimidate. It brings to mind connecting, streaming, Wi-Fi, and apps, along with questions like: Am I uploading or downloading? Sharing or sending? Snapping or DMing?

For many people, these questions are very real — and sometimes overwhelming. Others may simply want to learn more about their appliances, gadgets, tablets, printers, computers, phones, and apps so they can connect, stream, learn, listen, or play games with more confidence. Fortunately, Lenawee County offers a wide variety of opportunities for both one-to-one and group learning.

Local libraries are a great place to start. The Tecumseh District Library is hosting a free one-to-one technology help session on Feb. 26 from 2 to 4 p.m.

No appointment is necessary — just bring your device and your questions.

The Adrian District Library also offers regular technology learning opportunities. Their next session will take place on Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. and will focus on Email Basics. This in-person workshop is designed for those who are new to email or want to build more confidence using it. Registration is required and can be completed at adrian. lib.mi.us or by calling 517-265-2265.

Other organizations in the community have also hosted technology-related learning opportunities. The Weber Retreat and Conference Center, for example, offers a wide range of programs and recently featured a session titled “The Challenges and Opportunities of Living with AI.” Keeping an eye on their program calendar may lead to future opportunities. The Tecumseh Parks and Recreation Department has also been known to offer technology

CARI REBOTTARO programs, with details available at tecumsehparksandrec.recdesk.com.

For older adults and individuals living with disabilities, WellWise Services provides additional support. They have an Assistive Technology Specialist on staff who helps residents of Lenawee, Jackson, and Hillsdale counties learn about equipment and technology that can make daily life easier. In addition to consultations, WellWise hosts a monthly “Tech Time” at their office, located at 107 Chicago Street in Brooklyn, on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Assistance is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, contact WellWise Services at 517-592-1974 or info@ wellwiseservices.org.

Lenawee Department on Aging Senior Centers also offer a variety of technology opportunities. The most recent activity calendars show that at the Tecumseh Senior Center, a volunteer hosts an open forum for questions about computers and cell phones. Community members are welcome to drop in from noon to 1 p.m. on Feb. 12 and Feb. 26.

From libraries to senior centers, Lenawee County is filled with people and places eager to help neighbors navigate the digital world. Together, we’re making technology less intimidating and more accessible for everyone.

Cari Rebottaro is director of the Lenawee County Department on Aging.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

B9

JANUARY 2026

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: [ADS] Adrian Dominican Sisters, adriandominicans.org [AM] Anderson-Marry Funeral Homes, andersonfuneralservices.com [BJFH] Borek Jennings Funeral Home, borekjennings.com [BVH] Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home, brownvanhemert.com [E] Eineder Funeral Homes, einederfuneralhomes.com [H] Handler Funeral Homes, handlerfuneralhomes.com [PA] Purse Funeral Home in Adrian, pursefuneralhome.com [PS] Gil Purse & Son, gilpurseandson.com [W] Wagley Funeral Homes, wagleyfuneralhomes.com

Charles Douglas James, 73, of Addison died on Dec. 8. He was born and raised in Adrian and moved to Devils Lake in 1982.

He was skilled in carpentry, real estate, culinary arts, construction, and heavy equipment operation. He was known as the “Mayor of Clarks Cove.” [PA] David Andrew “Dave” Katz, 75, of Cement City died on Dec. 13. He was a graduate of Saline High School and attended the University of Michigan for journalism. He was retired from CertainTeed Corp. He had a pilot’s license and enjoyed flying. [E] Manith Armstrong, 72, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 15. He was born in Tecumseh and was an avid hunter. [PA] Arthur S. Garcia Jr., 68, of Adrian died on Dec. 15. He was a graduate of Madison High School and worked at General Motors until his retirement. [PA] John Robert Kolin, 74, of Manitou Beach died on Dec. 15. He grew up in Pennsylvania and would often share fond memories of his childhood there. He was a passionate golfer. [PA] Stephen Joseph “Papa” Sacka, 84, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 15. He was a 1959 graduate of Taylor High School. He worked at Borman Foods (Farmer Jack) for 24 years. He later spent 17 years with WarnerLambert (Pfizer), serving as regional manager in the grocery division and retiring in 2000. He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus and announced hockey games for many years in the Jackson area. [E] Ellen Faye Spikberg, 66, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 16. She worked as an office manager at Signature Home Traditions, Old Town Plumbing, and ReCommunity Recycling. She was a member of Tecumseh Church of the Nazarene. [AM] Jane Ann Ingold Tuckerman, 93, of Blissfield died on Dec. 16. She was a 1950 graduate of Blissfield High School. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Siena Heights College in 1971. She was active in the Blissfield community, helping to found the garden club and local historical society, and also worked to preserve the Blissfield Hotel after the fire. She was a longtime antiques dealer, and one of the shops she owned was Treasures and Pleasures in downtown Blissfield. [W] Jean Marie Onsted, 85, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Adrian, died on Dec. 17. She was a 1960 graduate of Adrian High School. She was a Camp Fire Girls leader for 20 years and also sewed baby quilts for the hospital and Care Pregnancy Center. She taught water aerobics at the Christian Family Centre for many years, was a longtime member of Jasper Bible Church, and drove buses for the LISD from 1986 to 2000. [W] Karen Sue Schwab, 74, of Morenci died on Dec. 18. She traveled extensively during her life and enjoyed playing games with her family, fishing, and doing puzzles. [AM] Harold Dale Baldwin, 85, of Adrian died on Dec. 19. He retired from the Michigan Milk Producers Association after 30 years of service. [PS] Mary L. Bramble, 76, of Blissfield died on Dec. 19. She was a graduate of Albion High School and went on to become a hair stylist. She enjoyed taking her children camping throughout Michigan and liked working outdoors in her garden. [W]

Oscar Timothy Butler, 74, of Adrian died on Dec. 19. He had a warm sense of humor and always had a pot of coffee for friends stopping by. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing. [AM] Marian J. Dann, 93, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 19. She worked as a court administrator for the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor for 25 years, retiring in 1994. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Saline. She was an avid golfer and a member of the Tecumseh Country Club. [AM] Marshall E. Sosby, 84, of Adrian died on Dec. 19. He began working at the age of 9 with his father, and he worked for GTE/ Verizon for over 30 years as a telephone installer, during which time he installed Lenawee County’s first 911 system. After retirement he was the owner and operator of The Telephone Man. [AM] Mary Ellen Miller, 88, of Adrian died on Dec. 21. She pursued higher education at Siena Heights College and Michigan State University. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She taught special education with the Lenawee Intermediate School District and served as a vision specialist with the health department. [AM] Stanley James Senkewitz, 78, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 21. He was a 1965 graduate of Clinton High School. There was no hobby he wouldn’t try including scuba diving, golfing, gardening, woodcarving, playing guitar and harmonica, and painting. [H] Vicenté Luis Ramos, 32, of Adrian died on Dec. 22. He played guitar and was a talented musician. He worked side by side with his father learning automotive and home improvement skills. He was a spiritual person and his faith led him to learn other languages such as Chaldean and Arabic to better understand scripture. [PA] Sandra Adelia Wint, 81, of Addison died on Dec. 22. She retired from Host International as a waitress after 40 years.

She was the co-owner of Movie Land with her sister and brother-in-law. [E] Rodney “Rod” Glen Sanford, 71, of Adrian died on Dec. 23. He was a 1972 graduate of Adrian High School and went on to serve in the U.S. Army and Navy for nine years. Upon returning to civilian life he earned his associates degree from ITT Technical Institute in Toledo. He worked in manufacturing, attended Jasper Bible Church, and was a lifetime member of AMVETS Post 1957. [W] Diane Handy Sexton Sebenick, 78, of Mount Pleasant died on Dec. 23. She was a 1965 graduate of Tecumseh High School. In 1982 she joined the Peace Corps, serving in Costa Rica for two years. She graduated from Toledo Travel School and was a travel advisor for AAA Travel in Adrian and Mount Pleasant, retiring in 2002. [clarkfuneralchapel.com] Patrick Ronald Willnow, 74, of Clarklake died on Dec. 23. He attended flight school in Florida and served in the National Guard. He owned and operated Aire-Flo Heating for 34 years. [E] Steven Frank Coscarelli, 70, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 24. He was a 1973 graduate of Tecumseh High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 12 years.

He worked for several years as a Marine recruiter. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Parish in Tecumseh. He was a personal trainer for many years and was a Harley-Davidson salesman at Town and Country Sports Center in Cement City. [AM]

Nancy H. Oberlin, 76, of Britton died on Dec. 24. She was a 1967 graduate of Tecumseh High School and continued her education at Cleary College. She was retired from the Kellogg Eye Center in Ann Arbor, where she worked as a coder. [PS] Jacob Jeffrey Sweet, 22, of Adrian died on Dec. 24. He was a 2022 graduate of Adrian High School and was currently the assistant manager at Little Caesars Pizza in Adrian. He loved sports, especially basketball and football. [AM] Krystal Ann White, 70, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 24. She worked at Fisher Body in Tecumseh and retired from General Motors in Toledo. She was a lifelong member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Tecumseh and a member of the Red Hat Society. [H] Gerald F. Ehlert, 85, of Adrian died on Dec. 25. He was a 1958 graduate of Blissfield High School. He retired from General Motors/Delphi in Adrian in 2001.

He enjoyed spending time at his cottage at Manitou Beach. [PA] Larry Edward Kanous, 90, of Britton died on Dec. 25. He was a 1953 graduate of Britton High School and served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953-1957. He was an electrician and a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He was also a member of the Britton American Legion. [H] Lavada Sue Wright, 42, of Hudson died on Dec. 25. She was a 2002 graduate of Morenci High School. [PA] Scott Michael Litwicki, 51, of Cement City died on Dec. 26. He built a career as an HVAC/R systems specialist and also worked for Consumers Energy as an engineering technical analyst. He was a member of Mosaic Church of Ypsilanti and more recently attended Mosaic Church of Manchester. [BVH] Jackie Lloyd Shell, 91, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 26. He was a 1952 graduate of Brooklyn High School. He attended Jackson Community College for business and Hillsdale College for law enforcement and criminal justice. He retired from the Michigan State Police as a detective lieutenant after 25 years of service, then worked in real estate. He and his brother owned Ma Shell’s Grocery and also formed D&J Excavating. [E] Douglas Arthur Fleshman, 84, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 27. He was a 1959 graduate of Ann Arbor High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran and owned and operated Doug’s Photo and Hobby Store in Petoskey. In 1993 he moved to Tecumseh and worked at Speedway and Martin’s Hardware, retiring in 2008. He enjoyed his daily trip to the Big Boy. [H] Janet L. Taylor, 91, of Adrian died on Dec. 27. She owned and operated the Doll Cottage in Tecumseh for 37 years. She also restored antique dolls and taught classes to those wanting to make their own porcelain dolls. She was one of the founders of the Adrian Community Nursery and a member of KKE Sorority. Her projects included furnishing a children’s playroom at the Women and Children’s Shelter on the Herrick Hospital campus. She supported the St. Vincent DePaul Society and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. [W] Stanley Paul Caine, 85, of Adrian died on Dec. 29. He was born in South Dakota.

He studied American history and was a professor for many years until moving into administration. He served for 16 years as president of Adrian College. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Adrian and served on several nonprofit boards. [W] Edward John DuBois, 94, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 29. After high school he served in the U.S. Army. He worked in the telecommunications industry. [H] Duane Edward Horton, 92, of Britton died on Dec. 29. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He worked for Tecumseh Products, retiring after over 30 years. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Tecumseh. [H] Charlotte Ellen Wilt, 88, of Adrian died on Dec. 29. She worked in the cafeteria at Adrian College, retiring in the early 2000s.

[PS]

Birdine Cole Sr., 60, of Pittsford died on Dec. 30. He was an avid outdoorsman and known for his ability to fix things. [AM] Ronald Douglas German, 75, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 30. He was born in Tecumseh and was a 1970 graduate of Milan High School. After retiring from military service, he worked for the Gus Harrison Correctional Facility for 20 years and the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor for eight years. He inherited Ron’s Campground on Mud Lake. [E] Esther Marie McNair, 94, of Adrian died on Dec. 30. She attended Hudson schools and later graduated from Elite Beauty Academy as a cosmetologist and instructor. She managed the Merle Norman Cosmetics Studio and Salon, retiring in 1990. She was a Girl Scout leader in Clayton for many years and volunteered for the Bixby Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Clayton Extension Club and the Hitch Up and Go Camping Club. [AM] Sister Marie Rose Bauer, OP, 91, of Adrian died on Jan. 1. Formerly Sister Ann Jeanine, she was in her 72nd year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was born in Port Huron and spent almost 40 years teaching in Michigan and Illinois. She was an avid letter-writer and loved to crochet. [ADS] Sister Reta Drexler, OP, 91, of Adrian died on Jan. 1. Formerly Sister Madonna Rose, she was in her 67th year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was a native of Dearborn. After entering the congregation she spent 30 years as a teacher in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. When she returned to Adrian to live she tutored at St. Joseph Academy and at the Adrian Rea Literacy Center. [ADS] JoAnn Eastridge, 84, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 1. She painted porcelain dolls and baked doll cakes in her early years. She and her husband were previously on a bowling league, and she enjoyed gardening. [E] Joseph Doyle Friedrich, 76, of Pittsford died on Jan. 1. He was a graduate of Hudson High School, where he played football and wrestled. After high school he pursued a career in the trades and founded Friedrich Brothers Roofing. He also owned and operated Margaritas restaurant in Hudson. [AM] Sally S. Gomez, 82, of Adrian died on Jan. 1. She was a 1961 graduate of St. Mary’s Catholic Central High School. She worked at Bethany Assembly of God Childcare, where she was referred to as Silly Sally. She also helped with the children’s ministry.

She attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Bethany Assembly of God, Restoration Church, and the Christian Mission. [PA] Marvin Emerson Johnson, 97, of Blissfield died on Jan. 1. After graduating from high school he served two years in the military and farmed for his brother near Blissfield. In the early 1960s he worked at the Chevrolet Transmission Plant in Toledo; however, his most rewarding work involved using his mechanical and woodworking skills. He looked forward to sharing lunch with friends at the BlissLiewert Senior Center. [W] Charles William “Charlie” Lewis Jr., 77, of Adrian died on Jan. 1. He was a 1967 graduate of Onsted High School. He worked for Ford Motor Company at the Saline plant for over 37 years until retirement. [W] Anthony Dale “Tony” Minnick, 66, of Adrian died on Jan. 1. He was a 1978 graduate of Adrian High School. For many years he worked as a steel fabricator at All Metals in Adrian. [W] Harold Robert Rhora, 88, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 1. He was a 1957 graduate of Britton High School and earned an accounting degree from Cleary College in Ypsilanti. He worked for the James River Paper Company for 29 years. He then worked alongside his wife and family at Great Ideas in Tecumseh. He served as a Macon Township trustee and was a member of the Tecumseh Planning Commission. [H] Candace “Candy” Dilyard, 59, of Adrian died on Jan. 3. She was a native of Morenci. [PA]

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FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

IN MEMORY Laurence Arthur Boyd II, 85, of Norvell died on Jan. 4. He attended Michigan Tech and the University of Michigan, earning his master’s degree, which led to a career in engineering. He retired from Commonwealth Associates. He and his wife traveled all over the country for square dance conventions. He was a member of Brooklyn Presbyterian Church. [E] Charles Edward Fausak IV, 48, of Cement City died on Jan. 4. He worked as a corrections officer and then as a security officer for Trinity Health in Ann Arbor. He had just completed his HVAC training. He was a member of the Somerset Congregational Church and the NRA. He was a certified CPL instructor for corrections and law enforcement officers. [BVH] Linda Darlene Gallippo, 78, of Pittsford died on Jan. 4. She was a 1966 graduate of Waldron High School. [AM] Sister Elizabeth Lynch, OP, 94, of Adrian died on Jan. 4. Formerly Sister John Annette, she was in her 74th year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. A native of Chicago, she ministered as a teacher and principal for more than 50 years in Michigan and Illinois, including serving for 30 years as principal at St. Denis School in Chicago. [ADS] Larry Norman Reaume, 69, of Onsted died on Jan. 4. He was a 1974 graduate of Fordson High School in Dearborn. He was a skilled carpenter and owned Chestnut Hill Cabinetry for many years. He trained on how to create beveled glass items and was equally talented with stained glass. [W] Wrayanne Fay Smelser, 77, of Napoleon died on Jan. 4. She was known for her skill as a seamstress. She was a member of Brooklyn Presbyterian Church. She volunteered at the Interfaith Shelter in Jackson and the Brooklyn Food Pantry. [E] Tracy Lee Young, 60, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 4. She was a graduate of Clinton High School and obtained a bachelor’s degree from Adrian College in 1989. She taught for over 20 years in Tecumseh Public Schools, teaching kindergarten and third grade, and retiring in 2025. [H] Vickie Sue Beebe, 72, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 5. [H]

Ivan Carl Brooks, 89, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 5. He was born in Adrian. He worked for Ford Motor Co. on the assembly line, retiring after 30 years. He co-owned a dump truck business with his daughter and son-in-law. He was an expert tree trimmer who loved camping, hunting, and working around his property. [E] Barbara Sue (Cole) Caldwell, 75, of Haines City, Florida, formerly of Adrian, died on Jan. 5. She was a graduate of Adrian High School. She moved to Florida 37 years ago. She was retired as an administrator in the hospitality industry.

Ann Laurine Mason, 85, of Clinton died on Jan. 5. She earned a teaching degree from Wayne State University and later returned to Wayne State to complete and degree in electrical engineering. She taught in Detroit Public Schools. She was a longtime resident of Clinton and was a member of the Clinton Women’s Club, serving as its president for several years. She also served on the Clinton Planning Commission and the SmithKimball Community Center Board. She was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church and an avid golfer. [H] Cooter Michael Thor Roe, 40, of Camden died on Jan. 5. He was a native of Adrian and a 2004 graduate of Camden High School. [PA] Jean Irene Henning, 94, of Adrian died on Jan. 7. She and her husband owned and operated Jerry’s in Adrian. [AM] Sister Ann Marie Petri, OP, 89, of Adrian died on Jan. 7. Formerly Sister Joseph Helene, she was in her 69th year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was born in Detroit.

After entering the congregation, she taught in Michigan for 17 years and later served in religious education and pastoral ministry for several Michigan parishes. [ADS] James Terry Progler, 76, of Tipton died on Jan. 7. He grew up in Saginaw and Adrian and attended Washington Elementary School and Madison schools.

He worked for Ford Motor Co. in Saline, retiring in 2005 after 38 years. He was a proud member of UAW Local 892. He invested in rental properties and buying and selling used cars. He enjoyed fishing and cruising around Evans Lake on his pontoon. He was a member of Moose Lodge 2661 and Eagles Aerie 3689. [W]

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IN MEMORY Yvonne Jeanette Sample, 71, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 7. She was employed at Tecumseh Products before later working in the kitchen at Columbia Elementary School. [PA] Mary Octavia Butler, 100, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 8. She was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Tecumseh Senior Center. [H] Theresa Clemons, 63, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 8. She was raised in Detroit and enjoyed gardening, scrapbooking, traveling, crafts, and decorating. [H] Louise Mary Howes, 87, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 8. She was talented at crafting, embroidery, crocheting, quilting, knitting, cross stitching, and cooking. [E] John Bruce “Juddy” Judkins, 85, of Adrian died on Jan. 9. He owned Judkins insurance Agency for over 40 years, retiring in 2005. He coached youth baseball in Tecumseh, including at Tecumseh High School, and also coached for two seasons at Adrian College. He attended Jasper Bible Church. He enjoyed golf, fishing, hunting, and bowled for several years at Ten Pin Alley. He was a member of the Saturday morning “Awesome, Stupendous Breakfast Club” at the Tecumseh Big Boy. [AM] Mary Margaret Klinger, 83, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 9 at the Brooklyn Living Center. [E] Harold Joseph “Smiley” Marvin Sr., 98, of Adrian died on Jan. 9. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He began working at the Lenawee Country Club at age 12 and retired from there at 92. He was the golf course superintendent for more than 35 years, and he planted more than 600 trees there. [PA] Lois Ellen Myers, 82, of Adrian died on Jan. 9. She was a graduate of Adrian High School. She worked for many years at Jacob’s Plastics and later at Bethany Kids Learning Center at Bethany Assembly of God in Adrian, retiring in 2014. She was a member of Holy Family Parish in Adrian. [AM] Joanne Elizabeth Smart, 79, of Tipton died on Jan. 9. She was a graduate of Woodward High School in Toledo and worked as a teacher’s assistant at Paddock Elementary School in Milan for over 15 years. She was a member of Cross Point Church in Brooklyn. [W] Carol Diane Spangler, 79, of Hudson died on Jan. 9. She earned a bachelor’s degree in 1969 from Cleveland State University. She homeschooled her children and taught religious education classes at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She also worked for many years as an administrative assistant at Metalloy Corp. in Hudson and at Osbourne, March, Condon & Co. in Hillsdale. [AM] Barbara Dee Hall, 63, died on Jan. 10. [PS] James Marc Holtz, 65, of Adrian died on Jan. 10. He was a 1979 graduate of Sand Creek High School. He worked as a forklift driver at Forvia in Saline. [AM]

Patricia Mae Sanborn, 85, of Onsted died on Jan. 10. She was a 1957 graduate of Sand Creek High School and began her career as a title examiner with Moore Abstract in Adrian when she was 17.

She also worked for Lawyer’s Title and Metropolitan Title, retiring in 1998. She and her husband owned the Peb-L-Brook Farm and showed cows at fairs. They also fostered over 400 children. She was a member of Gateway Community Church. [W] Walter Martin Williams, 76, of Adrian died on Jan. 10. He was a 1967 graduate of Blissfield High School. Following high school he worked at the former GM Fisher Body plant in Adrian and founded Williams Insulation Inc. in 1977. He was involved with Civitan of Lenawee, the HOPE Community Center, the Salvation Army, Hidden Lake Gardens, Lenawee County 4-H, the fairgrounds, Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee, and the Croswell Opera House. [AM] Linda Lee Harrison, 71, of Adrian died on Jan. 12. [PA] Sister Rosita Bernardo, OP, 90, died on Jan. 13 in Angeles City in the Philippines.

She was in her 52nd year of religious profession, 37 years as a Dominican Sister of Our Lady of Remedies in the Philippines and 15 as an Adrian Dominican Sister after the two congregations merged in 2011.

She ministered for more than 20 years in various roles at the University of the Assumption in San Fernando, Philippines. [ADS] Daniel Lee Booth, 64, of Brooklyn died on Jan. 13. He was employed at Cummings Plumbing for many years. His Halloweendecorated house was featured in the Brooklyn Exponent. He attended many classic car shows with his 1972 black Monte Carlo. [E] Thomas William Carlton, 94, of Clinton died on Jan. 14. He was a 1949 graduate of Clinton High School and attended Michigan State University. He and his wife were dairy farmers. He was a member of the Clinton school board for nine years. He also held various positions in his church and farm organizations over the years. He was a volunteer driver for the Department of Aging. [H] Dorothy Yvonne (Swiger) Hamilton, 82, of Tiffin, formerly of Adrian, died on Jan. 14. She worked as an in-home caregiver. [AM] Jonathan Roy Jones, 34, of Clinton died on Jan. 14. He worked at Extang Corp. in Ann Arbor. He loved creating music, cooking, sports, and riding motorcycles. [AM] Patricia Ann Love, 82, of Tipton died on Jan. 14. She loved spending time on the farm, tending to her garden, and working with her horses and dogs. [H] Josephine “Betty” Studnicka, 94, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 15. She was a graduate of Britton-Macon school and worked for 30 years at Ford Motor Company in Ypsilanti, retiring in 1984.

She enjoyed her Czech heritage, playing the accordion, dancing the polka, playing euchre, and attending many Czech events. [H]

Charles Frederick “Chuck” Yape, 84, of Riga died on Jan. 16. He was a graduate of Summerfield High School. He spent his career in the cement and stone crushing business. He was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Riga. [W] Lois Carlin, 71, of Tecumseh died on Jan. 17. She loved crafts, especially quiltmaking. [H] Vonda A. Lemon, 97, of Adrian died on Jan. 17. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1950 from Michigan State University and later a master’s in education from Siena Heights College. She taught at Drager Middle School for many years. She was a longtime member of Adrian First United Methodist Church and was involved with the Adrian Garden Club, Monday Literary Club, PEO, and Bixby Hospital Auxiliary. [W] Alma “June” Staup, 92, of Blissfield died on Jan. 17. She was a 1951 graduate of Blissfield High School. She worked as a bartender, cook, and newspaper reporter.

She was known to many as “Grandma JR” or “Aunt June.” She was a 4-H leader, Boy Scout leader, Blue Birds leader, and chaplain for the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. [AM] Mary Margaret Boehk, 80, of Hudson died on Jan. 18. She worked for the Bank of Lenawee until her retirement in 2007. [AM] Lorrie Eugene “Gene” Butts, 80, of Adrian died on Jan. 18. He was a graduate of Blissfield High School. He worked as a master machine engineer at Blissfield Manufacturing Company and Jay Products.

He found great joy in music and history and enjoyed playing the banjo. [AM] Peter D. Carr, 78, of Adrian died on Jan. 18. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honored for heroism.

He worked at Ford Motor Co. in Saline for over 32 years, retiring in 1998. [AM] Gene “Jeep” Jeppesen, 77, of Hudson died on Jan. 18. He worked as a long haul trucker for Maxon’s Milk Transport. He was a master carpenter in his early years. [PA]

Barbara J. Jackson, 86, of Adrian died on Jan. 19 at Gaslight Village Assisted Living & Memory Care. She worked for 30 years as a rural mail carrier for the Brooklyn post office. She enjoyed the arts and was an animal lover, showing Quarter Horses and raising German Shepherds. She enjoyed watching shows at the Croswell and attending the Adrian Symphony Orchestra. She also ran in seven Boston Marathons. [AM] Joanne Louise Yinger, 94, of Adrian died on Jan. 19 at Lenawee Medical Care Facility. [PA] Donald Henry Aspacher, 94, of Fairhope, Alabama, formerly of Adrian, died on January 20. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He started as a sales account executive with WABJ in 1967 and was its general manager and a part owner until 1990. While at WABJ, he was responsible for putting WQTE on the air. He was also a member of Rotary and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Blissfield. [wolfefuneralhomes.com]

Pamela S. Borton, 68, of Manitou Beach, formerly of Hudson and Morenci, died on Jan. 21 at Adrian Bay Rehab and Nursing Center. She graduated from Morenci High School in 1975. She worked as a loan officer and manager of an H&R Block tax office.

She was an avid golfer and bowler. [AM] Bradley Delmer Gentry, 55, died on Jan. 21. He was a Tecumseh native and a 1988 graduate of Tecumseh High School.

He played basketball and softball in local recreation leagues. [H] William Jerome “Bill” Smith Jr., 83, of Adrian died on Jan. 21. He lived his early life in Sand Creek and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1960. He then spent 33 years with UPS, working out of the Adrian branch in several roles, but he most enjoyed his routes in Jasper and Sand Creek. He retired in 1998 after being recognized for over 1 million miles of safe driving. He was a longtime member of American Legion Post 97 and the Adrian Moose. [AM]

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‘Singin’ in the Rain’ puts young talent in the spotlight » PAGE C2

Childhood ritual inspires book by two sisters » PAGE C4

ARTS & LIVING Series of events will mark Croswell’s 160th year

THE LENAWEE VOICE THIRD SECTION FEBRUARY 2026

Jimmy Holmes brings Elvis tribute act to Tecumseh » PAGE D3

Art meets nature

‘Rooting Around at Lindisfarne’ exhibit turns found objects into works of art

ADRIAN — A local and state landmark will hit a milestone this year as the Croswell Opera House in Adrian celebrates its 160th anniversary.

The Croswell, which has been in operation since 1866, is the oldest theater in Michigan and one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States.

To honor this historic milestone, the Croswell will be inviting the public to a yearlong series of special events that reflect the spirit and shared memories that have sustained the theater since 1866.

The celebration begins on March 19 with a 160th birthday party — a free, community-wide event welcoming everyone to help celebrate. Guests will enjoy cake, behind-the-scenes tours, and the chance to gather with friends and neighbors to mark the occasion.

Families are invited back on March 21 for a cake decorating event at Farver’s at the Croswell, the bar located just off the theater’s main lobby. Participants can decorate their own Croswell birthday cake and take it home to enjoy.

On May 21, the Croswell will host its annual fundraiser, The Great Big Night.

This ticketed evening will include food, drinks, raffles, a silent auction, and entertainment by Croswell artists.

Summer festivities continue on July 11 with an Alleyway Ice Cream Social, a free celebration before that day’s

ADRIAN — The intersection of art and nature can be explored in “Rooting Around at Lindisfarne,” an exhibit on display through Feb. 22 at the Adrian Center for the Arts gallery.

The gallery is at 1375 N. Adrian Hwy., and gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m.

For the exhibit, artists foraged for materials last fall at Lindisfarne Woods, an 80-acre property near Tipton.

“It’s absolutely beautiful,” Jill Shaffer, one of the ACA’s studio directors, said about the land. The property includes woods, a meadow, and a pond.

Artists could work in any medium, and there was only one requirement: “Some part of that property has to be in the art,” Shaffer said.

For example, an oil painter could mix a handful of seeds in with their paint to create texture, or a piece could be embellished with things like moss, feathers, teasels and milkweed pods.

Tree bark is an integral part of some of the pieces.

“There’s all kinds of ways to make art from anything,” Shaffer said.

One sculpture, by Cheryl Westbrook, literally takes part of the earth and turns it into art. That piece demonstrates the Japanese art of dorodango, in which mud is compressed by hand into a sphere and then polished.

Artists made foraging trips in August, October and November, and then worked on their pieces. The exhibit features 33 works by 18 artists.

The property is owned by the Rev. Catherine King, pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Tecumseh.

See CROSWELL, page C11

See LINDISFARNE, page C11

ART EXHIBITS —

Jill Shaffer hangs “Happy Weeds,” a piece by Kate Jocelyn, in the “Rooting Around at Lindisfarne” exhibit that will be on display at the Adrian Center for the Arts through Feb. 22.

Kris Schmidt, one of the artists who participated in “Rooting Around at Lindisfarne,” took this photo of ACA program director Pi Benio foraging for found objects last year. At left is the original photo; at right is the painting Schmidt created from it.

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FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ is a theater classic

Camdenne Kruse as gossip columnist Dora Bailey interviews Kai Yuen and Carolyn Mohler as silent film stars Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont, while Trent Aneed as Don’s sidekick Cosmo Brown looks on.

Lighthearted musical comedy is on stage through February 8 ADRIAN — A song-and-dance romp set in the early days of cinema, “Singin’ in the Rain” is on stage through Feb. 8 at the Croswell Opera House.

The musical is the Croswell’s annual all-area high school production, which every year brings talented theater students from all over the region to Adrian for a chance to connect with their peers from other schools and perform at Michigan’s oldest theater.

“Singin’ in the Rain” is based on the 1952 film of the same name. It is set in Hollywood just as the silent film era is giving way to the “talkies.”

The musical is filled with memorable songs, energetic tap numbers, and quite a few pratfalls straight out of the days of vaudeville comedy.

“Singin’ in the Rain” focuses on a quartet of main characters. Don Lockwood, the Gene Kelly role from the original movie, is the classic romantic leading man. That role is played in the Croswell’s production by Kai Yuen, a senior at Adrian High School. His comic sidekick Cosmo Brown is played by Trent Aneed, also a senior at Adrian.

Aspiring actress Kathy Selden is played by Jasmine Hajjar, a junior at Ottawa Hills High School in Ohio who is making her Croswell debut in this production. Lina Lamont, a silent film star whose voice is ill-suited to the new world of talking pictures, is played

by Carolyn Mohler, a sophomore at Whiteford High School in Ottawa Lake.

A total of 14 high schools are represented, with students coming from all over southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio.

In addition to the actors playing Don Lockwood, Cosmo Brown, Kathy Selden and Lina Lamont, the 32-person cast includes Emily Anderson, Amelia Bowman, Kayla Bradberry, Ella Flumignan, Evan Garcia, Brenna Gifford, Fiza Gohar and Noble Wilt from Adrian High School; Kina Eby from Blissfield High School; Steve Cattell from Chelsea High School; Yasmin De Paula from Chesterton Academy of St. George in Jackson; Camdenne Kruse from Clinton High School; Amelia Martinal from Lenawee Christian School; Zoelle Blackmon from the LISD Middle College; Libby Pifer, Gage Sterling, Trae Wesson

THEATER —

Kai Yuen as Don Lockwood and Jasmine Hajjar as Kathy Selden are pictured in a scene from “Singin’ in the Rain” at the Croswell Opera House. and Briella York from Madison High School; Caroline Grenn from Monroe High School; Grace Kent from Onsted High School; Abigail Lipsitz from Saline High School; Colbie Baer, Carsyn Benzing, Katherine Dolson and Phiona Taylor from Tecumseh High School; Jocelyn Villagomez from Swanton High School in Ohio; and homeschool students Alexander Rabideau from Deerfield and Laila Seeburger from Blissfield.

The director is Sarah Nowak, a veteran Croswell director and choreographer whose work includes the choreography for the recently concluded “Cinderella.”

The choreographer is Sydney Bramlett, a Siena Heights University alumna who has previously been seen on the Croswell stage in roles such as Hope Harcourt in “Anything Goes.” Music direction is divided between two longtime local music educators, Wynne Marsh as the vocal director and Mandy Kruse conducting the live orchestra.

Performance dates and times are: n Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m. n Sunday, Feb. 1 at 2:30 p.m. n Friday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. n Saturday, Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m. n Sunday, Feb. 8 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $12 to $25 for adults and $12 for all student tickets, and may be ordered by calling 517-264-7469 or going to croswell.org. The Croswell is at 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

ARTS & LIVING | C3

FEBRUARY 2026

Childhood handshake inspires sisters to collaborate across an ocean

By Renee Lapham Collins The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — What began as a quiet, familiar ritual around the family dinner table has evolved into a children’s book now traveling far beyond its original home.

Sisters Laura Banks Goble and Lyndsey Banks recently collaborated on a self-published children’s book inspired by a simple but meaningful handshake from their childhood.

Titled “My Love Is All Around You with a Kiss on Top,” the book blends family memory, faith, and reassurance into a story designed to comfort young children facing moments of separation.

The pair are the daughters of Bruce and Beth Banks of Adrian and graduates of Lenawee Christian School.

Goble, the book’s author, is a physician’s associate for an orthopedic surgery practice in Rome, Georgia. Banks, the illustrator, is a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force currently stationed in Germany. Though separated by an ocean and six time zones, the sisters brought the project together through late-night phone calls and emails, scanned artwork, and a shared sense that the story was something worth telling.

Goble said the idea came to her while she was breastfeeding her younger daughter, Emersyn.

“It was almost like a dream,” she said.

“I remember sitting there the next day thinking, ‘What just happened?’ I started writing it down, and it came so easily. It felt like a gift.”

Until then, writing had never been on her radar. Goble’s background is in exercise science and athletic training.

She attended Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and went on

Laura Banks Goble

BOOKS —

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“My Love Is All Around You with a Kiss on Top” was written by sisters Laura Banks Goble and Lyndsey Banks. to earn her master’s degree in medical science at Emory University, so her studies were firmly planted in the sciences.

But once the story began to take shape, Goble said she felt compelled to see it through.

The plot centers on a 5-year-old girl preparing for her first day of kindergarten who is anxious about being apart from her mother. To comfort her, the mother teaches her a secret handshake — a quiet, portable reminder that love can be felt even when someone isn’t physically present.

For the Banks siblings, the handshake has important family ties. Banks recalls how, growing up, they would sit at the dinner table, hands joined in prayer, when their mother would squeeze their

Lyndsey Banks

hands three times to say “I love you.” The girls would squeeze back twice, then all would squeeze together as hard as they could — a silent exchange that carried meaning without words.

Banks recalls carrying that tradition into adulthood. During stressful moments, even during her military service, she and her mother would text each other “three squeezes.” After a car accident and surgery overseas, Banks said, her mother left handwritten notes around her house — including one that read simply, “three squeezes.” That note still hangs on her refrigerator.

When elder sister Goble asked her younger sister if she would illustrate the book, the answer was an immediate “yes!”

Though she didn’t study art in college, Banks rediscovered painting during the isolation of a COVID-era deployment.

Art became a form of therapy, and for the book she created each illustration by hand, sketching and painting with acrylics before photographing and sending the images back to Goble for layout.

“It was important that the art felt realistic but still whimsical,” Banks said.

“Each image took time, but it was worth it.”

The sisters self-published the book through Amazon, navigating editing, formatting, and multiple revisions. They used Canva for layout and selected a font that resembles a child’s handwriting. With help from friends and family, they later expanded the book into additional languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese.

One of the most meaningful moments came when Goble’s’s oldest daughter, Trevi — the namesake of the story’s young character — learned to read just as the final copies arrived.

“She read the entire book out loud on our front porch,” Goble said. “She was so proud.”

While marketing the book has been a learning curve, the sisters say the response has been encouraging.

Libraries, families, and even local medical offices have shared copies, and feedback continues to trickle in.

“It’s not just a one-and-done experience,” Goble said. “What would be really sweet is someday seeing a child use our handshake and knowing we helped spark that moment.”

“My Love Is All Around You with a Kiss on Top” is available on Amazon in hardcover and paperback.

And somewhere, perhaps in a school dropoff line or a crowded hallway, a small pinky promise may already be doing its quiet work.

C4 | ARTS & LIVING

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Symphony to mark Valentine’s Day with ‘Broadway Love Songs’

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

Chase Matthew will be the headliner for Adrian College’s annual spring concert on March 21.

Country singer Chase Matthew to perform at Adrian College ADRIAN — Nashville native Chase Matthew will headline Adrian College’s Spring Concert on Saturday, March 21, at the Merillat Sport and Fitness Center. Doors open at 7 p.m., with the first performance beginning at 7:30 p.m.

General admission tickets are $50 and can be purchased online through hometownticketing.com.

Last January, Matthew released his third album, “Chase.” He has toured with artists such as Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean.

The country artist has amassed more than 1 billion global career streams, including more than 315 million from his first RIAA Platinumcertified song, “Country Line,” and has accumulated 1.5 million followers across social media.

His gold-certified debut single, “Love You Again,” reached the top 15 on country radio, while “Darlin’” hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart last November, marking his first career chart-topper.

ADRIAN — Over the years, some of popular music’s most enduring love songs have come from Broadway shows.

For its upcoming Valentine’s Daythemed concert, the Adrian Symphony Orchestra and four guest vocalists will present a wide array of Broadway tunes related to romance — and the complications romance can cause.

The concert, “Broadway Love Songs,” is at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13 at Adrian College’s Dawson Auditorium.

Tickets are $41/$35/$27, with discounted rates of $39/$33/$27 for senior citizens and $22/$19/$15 for students, and may be purchased by calling the ASO at 517-264-3121; online at www.adriansymphony.org; or at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m.

“We made sure we have a survey of different eras of Broadway, so people will have a good sense of the great variety of music,” ASO Music Director Bruce Anthony Kiesling said.

And so, the music ranges from Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, and Rodgers and Hammerstein tunes all the way up to a song from “Wicked.”

The program includes songs such as “What I Did For Love,” “Wonderful Guy,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Til There Was You,” “For Good,” and “All I Ask of You.” But there are some considerably more tongue-in-cheek tunes as well: “That’ll Show Him,” “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” “Anything You Can Do,” and “All I Care About.”

“We have some different takes on love so it’s not ballad after ballad,” Kiesling said.

The concert’s guest vocalists are Isabella Denissen, Riley Hahn, Quincy

MUSIC —

Isabella Denissen

Riley Hahn

Hampton, and Kevin Ludwig.

All four are musical theater students at the University of Michigan. Hahn and Ludwig each performed with the ASO earlier this season — Hahn for the October concert and Ludwig in December — while Denissen sang at an ASO fundraiser last May. But while most of the music on the program includes the singers, whether as soloists or in some combination, there are a couple of instrumental-only pieces as well.

“We can’t do a Broadway show without an overture,” Kiesling joked.

The program includes examples from “Gypsy” and “Funny Girl,” he said, “to showcase some of the really great brass playing in them.”

The concert marks the first time in Kiesling’s tenure with the ASO that the orchestra has put the spotlight on Broadway show tunes.

“We’re excited to do it,” Kiesling said. “We’re showcasing some amazing singers and it’s going to be a wonderful program.”

As with some of the ASO’s other pops performances, like the Christmastime holiday concert that’s designed to fit with people’s busy schedules that time of year, this performance is on the shorter side. It will last about 90 minutes with no intermission in order to be a good length for a couples’ night out for the Valentine’s Day holiday.

Quincy Hampton

Kevin Ludwig

‘Broadway Love Songs’ DATE AND TIME: Friday, Feb. 13, at 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Dawson Auditorium, Adrian College TICKETS: $41/$35/$27 ($39/$33/$27 for seniors, $22/$19/$15 for students) TO ORDER: 517-264-3121 or online at adriansymphony.org In keeping with the Valentine’s theme, the ASO is offering the opportunity to purchase Valentine’s Dedications so that audience members can share messages of love, gratitude, and appreciation.

A Premium Dedication ($150) includes having the dedication announced from the stage, a performance of the song of the audience member’s choice chosen from a preselected list, an onscreen message to the recipient, and a rose and a handwritten copy of the dedication delivered to the recipient when the song dedication is announced.

A Standard Dedication ($25) includes the onscreen message prior to the concert, with an optional $15 add-on including a rose and a handwritten copy of the dedication placed on the recipient’s seat before the concert.

For more information on making a dedication, call the ASO or go online at www.adriansymphony.org/february.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

ARTS & LIVING | C5

FEBRUARY 2026

Siena Heights announces Farewell Festival for April ADRIAN — As Siena Heights University nears its closure at the end of this academic year, the school is inviting students, alumni and the community to a Farewell Festival on Sunday, April 26.

The event will be an evening concert headlined by Grammy-nominated rapper, singer and songwriter Flo Rida, and it will take place at O’Laughlin Stadium on the Siena Heights campus.

It is intended to serve as a celebratory sendoff honoring the university’s legacy and community. The event is open to students, alumni, and the community.

“This is officially the largest event in Siena’s history and a fitting sendoff to our beloved institution,” said Jacob Wilson, SHU’s director of student engagement.

“Our goal is to bring joy to everyone and unite the community in our last moments, celebrating the legacy of Siena.”

Flo Rida will be joined by artists from APG Audio Visual Mentoring along with Jon Torrence and the band Not Fast Enüff.

Tickets for the community will be priced at $50 until March 1, and $60 after March 1.

The first 1,000 tickets are reserved for SHU alumni at a special rate of $25 using a code that will be emailed to the alumni list.

Tickets are free for current students, faculty, and staff.

Commemorative Farewell Festival T-shirts will be available for pre-order for $25, and will be sold for $35 at the event.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for early entry and 6 p.m. for general admission.

The festival begins at 7 p.m.

Additional information regarding tickets, event logistics, food vendors, and supporting artists will be released in the coming weeks.

More information will be available at farewellfestival.com.

Open auditions set for Croswell’s summer shows ADRIAN — Open auditions will take place starting this month for the first four shows in the Croswell Opera House’s 2026 Broadway Season.

The shows are “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Gypsy,” “George M!” and “Matilda.” Auditions will be offered in three locations: n At the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, on Monday, Feb. 23 from

5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. n At the Wingate by Wyndham, 5480 Main St., Sylvania, on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 5-7 p.m. n At the Kensington Hotel, 3500 S. State St., Ann Arbor, on Sunday, March 1 from 5-7 p.m.

For more information, go to croswell.org/auditions.

C6 | ARTS & LIVING

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

Churches come together for Black History Month celebration ADRIAN — “Together We Stand,” a community celebration of Black History Month organized by several local churches, will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, at Christ Temple Ministries International, 3665 Deerfield Road.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of author, journalist and historian Carter G. Woodson founding “Negro History Week,” the forerunner of what would later become Black History Month. He began the celebration in response to the stories of African-Americans being not only overlooked, but sometimes actively suppressed in the teaching of history. It was originally observed during the second week of February, to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, and was expanded to the month of February in 1970.

The theme of this year’s celebration is “Everyone wins when we stay on the right path.”

For more information, contact Eugenia McClain at 517-918-5313 or Geraldine Boykin at 517-260-2066.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

ARTS & LIVING | C7

FEBRUARY 2026

FEBRUARY 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.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Matinee Monday: ‘Billy Elliott’

74th Annual Tip Up Festival

Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 1 p.m.

Friends of the TCA present Matinee Monday on the first Monday of every month. This month’s feature is “Billy Elliott,” the story of a young boy who wants to learn to dance set against the backdrop of a community’s struggle for fair wages in an English mining town. Free; concessions available for purchase.

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

Manitou Beach Friday activities include: Fishing contest at the Manitou Beach Marina (weather permitting) from noon to 5 p.m. and a Red Light Ride around Devils Lake starting at 8 p.m. For an event flyer, find the Devils & Round Lake Men’s Club on Facebook.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Kids’ Activity: Perler Beads Lenawee District Library, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Kids of all ages can drop by the Lenawee District Library to make art using perler beads.

Craft shapes, characters, and more using plastic melting beads, No registration needed.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian lenawee.lib.mi.us

Lenawee County Family Researchers Lenawee County Historical Museum, 5:30 p.m.

Robert Wessel, from the Lenawee Historical Society and Museum will share the genealogical nuggets found in draft records.

After a brief break and snacks, Robert Taylor will present the Genealogy 101 topic “Conducting a Family Interview.” For details, contact Judy Sheldon at 989-984-9305.

110 E. Church St., Adrian

Knit & Crochet with Purpose: Gather to Give Musgrove + Company, Tecumseh, 5-7 p.m.

Gather to Give Series is a series of free events where participants will learn how to crochet, knit, or sew port pillows (a small pillow that attaches to a car’s seatbelt to protect and cushion a chemotherapy port). You are encouraged to bring your own fabric, velcro and stuffing. You can bring your own sewing machine or shared machines will be available to use. Download a free pattern at createtodonate.org/how-to-make-a-chemoport-pillow. All donations can be dropped off at both Musgrove + Company locations (135 E Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh, and 110 W. Maumee St., Adrian) and at the Matthews House Shop (127 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh).

135 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh 517- 815-1248

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Kids’ Activity: Handprint Bouquets Clayton Branch Library, 3-6 p.m.

Kids of all ages can drop by to make flowerinspired bouquets using their handprints. All materials will be provided.

3457 State St., Clayton lenawee.lib.mi.us 517-445-2619

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Nature Narratives Book Club Musgrove + Company, Tecumseh, 6-7 p.m.

The River Raisin Watershed Council presents its second Nature Narratives Book Club gathering, exploring “Is a River Alive?”

by Robert Macfarlane.

This book invites readers to consider rivers as living beings and to reflect on our relationship with water, place, and stewardship. Register at riverraisin.org/bookclub.

135 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh 517-662-8755

Conversation Heart Key Rings Deerfield Branch Library, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Kids of all ages can press a message into an air-dry clay heart to make a conversation heart-inspired key ring at the Deerfield Branch library. No registration needed.

170 Raisin St., Deerfield lenawee.lib.mi.us

Adrian First Fridays: Downtown Eras Tour Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

Step into your favorite era and celebrate First Friday with an Eras Tour-inspired night filled with Swiftie-inspired fun.

Homemade Cheese and Dairy Workshops Blessed Creatures Farm, 6-8:30 p.m.

Homemade Cheese and Dairy Workshops will cover six basic recipes for homemade cheese and the differences you’ll come across using different types of milk. There are three dates available: Friday, Feb. 6, from 6-8:30 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 7, from 2-4:30 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 14, from 3-5:30 p.m.. For more information, find Blessed Creatures Farm on Facebook, call 734-850-7097, or email blessedcreaturesfarm@gmail.com. $49.

8972 Crockett Hwy., Blissfield

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 74th Annual Tip Up Festival Manitou Beach Sunday activities include fishing contest from 9 a.m. to noon and a fundraising auction at 3 p.m. at the Highland Inn. For an event flyer, find the Devils & Round Lake Men’s Club on Facebook.

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

The Croswell’s annual all-area high school musical. Final performance. Adults $25/$18/$12, students $12.

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

Black History Month celebration: ‘Together We Stand’ Christ Temple Ministries, 3 p.m.

“Together We Stand” is an annual celebration of Black History Month organized by several area churches. This year’s theme is “Everyone wins when we stay on the right path.”

3665 Deerfield Road, Adrian

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Family movie: ‘The Bad Guys’ Britton Branch Library, 3:30 p.m.

All ages are welcome, and snacks will be provided.

120 College Ave., Britton

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Empty Bowls Farver’s at the Croswell, 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Enjoy delicious homemade soup and get a handmade bowl to take home at this fundraiser to fight hunger in Lenawee County. Bowls are $15 to $30 and have been made by members of the Adrian Center for the Arts; soup is provided

by First United Methodist Church.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian croswell.org/farvers

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

The Croswell’s annual all-area high school musical. Every unforgettable song from the beloved film is preserved in this stage adaptation of what has been called “the greatest movie musical of all time.” Continues Saturday and Sunday. Adults: $25/$18/$12, students $12.

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

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 74th Annual Tip Up Festival Manitou Beach Saturday activities include: Fishing contest at the Manitou Beach Marina from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m and a poker run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting from the Marina. For an event flyer, find the Devils & Round Lake Men’s Club on Facebook.

LET OUR 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU!

Days of Mindfulness: Attentiveness Weber Retreat & Conference Center, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The idea in practice is not to look for anything special and not to try and make anything special happen; rather it is to notice carefully what it is that is actually happening.

Attentiveness guides us to stay with the sensation and observe how impermanent it is. $35.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive., Adrian webercenter.org or 517-423-6617

CHARLES J. NOE 517-263-4062

ATTORNEY AT LAW FORMER ASSISTANT PROSECUTOR CRIMINAL LAW PERSONAL AND AUTO INJURY DIVORCE/FAMILY LAW ESTATE PLANNING

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

The Croswell’s annual all-area high school musical. Every unforgettable song from the beloved film is preserved in this stage adaptation of what has been called “the greatest movie musical of all time.” Continues Sunday. Adults: $25/$18/$12, students $12.

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

ADVICE MATTERS.

MARGARET M.S. NOE 517-263-8200

ATTORNEY AT LAW FORMER CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE FORMER ASSISTANT PROSECUTOR PERSONAL INJURY ESTATE PLANNING

NOE LAW OFFICE

147 NORTH MAIN STREET, ADRIAN noelawoffice.com

C8 | ARTS & LIVING

FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

‘Empty Bowls’ fundraiser helps fight hunger in Lenawee County

Adrian Center for the Arts members work on making bowls for this year’s Empty Bowls fundraiser.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Coffee & Cake The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace, 5-6 p.m.

Mandy Makes N’ Bakes will be at The Buzz for a fun-filled Mini Cake Decorating Class.

This is a one-hour hands-on class for all skill levels. Cake decorating supplies and a coffee beverage will be provided. Seats are limited. $60 per person.

110 E. Maumee St., Adrian thebuzzadrian.com 517-759-3289

ADRIAN — The biannual Empty Bowls fundraiser, sponsored by the Adrian Center for the Arts, returns to Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., on Tuesday, Feb. 10 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

The Empty Bowls idea originated in Bloomfield Hills when an art teacher at Lahser High School challenged his students to help raise funds for a local food drive by making ceramic bowls and hosting a simple soup-and-bread meal. Pi Benio, a cofounder of the ACA, helped introduce the program to Lenawee County when she was a professor at Adrian College, involving students and community members in creating handmade bowls.

Fudge Making Experience

Kids’ Craft: Paper Snowflakes

The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Learn the ins and outs of making oldfashioned fudge from The Buzz’s lead chocolatier — and take your creation home with you. Space is limited. $50 per person.

110 E. Maumee St., Adrian thebuzzadrian.com 517-759-3289

Lenawee District Library, 3-4 p.m.

Kids of all ages can drop by the library to learn the art of cutting beautiful paper snowflakes.

No registration required.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 44th Annual Soup & Pie Fundraiser Morenci Eagles, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Join the Kiwanis Club of Morenci for their 44th annual Soup & Pie Fundraiser supporting the Rex Riley Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door on the day of the dinner. Over the past 44 years, this fundraiser has helped provide $225,550 in scholarships to Morenci graduates. See any Kiwanian for details.

239 W. Main St., Morenci

Lunch & Learn: Casseroles & Crockpots Weber Retreat & Conference Center, 12:15 to 1 p.m.

Warm up the winter days with new ideas for cooking. Come and sample three different dishes including a pineapple upside down cake in a crockpot. Bring your own recipes to share. Free and open to all; No registration required. Bring your lunch or purchase from Weber Center for $8 by registering at least two days in advance of the event.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org or 517-423-6617

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Hanging Bird Feeder Painting Lenawee District Library, 2-3 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Adults ages 18 and up can paint hanging bird feeders for our feathered friends in this workshop. Registration is required.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian 517-263-1011

‘An Evening of Inspiration’ Gauci Golf Resort. 4-7 p.m.

The Irish Hills Regional Chamber presents a motivating evening with two guest speakers.

The topics are “Leading with Purpose: Build a Business (and Life) You Actually Love” with Lindsey Schiel and “The Power of a Good Question: Connection and Joy” with Robin Shear. Admission includes heavy appetizers and a copy of Robin Shear’s book “Messy Joy.” $45 per person for Chamber members, $55 for non-members.

8421 Sports Park Drive, Onsted irishhills.com or 517-592-8907

Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Class Cherry Creek Cellars, 6-8 p.m.

Event by Coco’s Cookies and Carly Bammer. In this two-hour class you will learn basic filling and piping techniques, tips and tricks from your host, and walk away with eight cookies.

No experience needed. Tickets required. $60.

11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn cherrycreekwine.com 517-592-4663

Artists at the ACA started working on bowls for this year’s event on Jan. 11.

ACA Director Valerie Herr says the program is an example of “community supporting community.”

“I inherited the administrative portion,” she said. “Pi and the other artists do what they do best through amazing art.”

Prices for bowls range from $15 to $30.

Guests will select a bowl, then fill it with their selection from a variety of soups made by First United Methodist Church.

Herr said artists have created more than 200 bowls of varying shapes and colors.

Herr said the 2024 event raised $5,000 for Neighbors of Hope. Since 1990, the

Kanin Wren’s Taylor Swift Experience Croswell Opera House, 7 p.m.

Michigan’s own Kanin Wren brings all the magic of a Taylor Swift concert to the Croswell.

Experience the incredible choreography, costume changes, and remarkable vocal styles of Kanin and her band as they celebrate the genius of Taylor Swift. Special guest Brinlee Way performs at 7 p.m., followed by Kanin and her band. Adults $35, students $25.

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

Adrian Symphony Orchestra: ‘Broadway Love Songs’ Dawson Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Featuring vocals by Isabella Denissen, Riley Hahn, Quincy Hampton, and Kevin Ludwig, this concert invites you to fall in love with Broadway all over again. This romantic evening features a dazzling lineup of love songs from Broadway’s greatest shows, past and present — including timeless gems by Rodgers & Hammerstein and modern favorites like “Wicked.” Cash bar in the lobby opens at 6:30 p.m. $41/$35/$27 (seniors $39/$33/$27, students $22/$19/$15).

151 S. Charles St., Adrian adriansymphony.org

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Michigan Free Fishing Weekend Michigan parks and waterways, all day Fish for free on Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15 as part of the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan. Experience the state’s world-class fishing without needing a license. All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. A Recreation Passport will not be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites during Free Fishing Weekends. Going ice fishing during the February Free Fishing Weekend?

Make sure to review ice safety tips at www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

‘Barbie’ Clayton Branch Library, noon A free family movie showing.

3457 State St., Clayton

Elvis Tribute Artist Jimmy Holmes Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m.

This Valentine’s Day, Graceland’s celebrated Jimmy Holmes will heat up the winter night with a passionate and unforgettable tribute to Elvis Presley.

Known for his powerful vocals, uncanny likeness, and emotional connection to the music, Jimmy Holmes captures the spirit, soul, and showmanship of Elvis like no other. $45 (seniors and military $40, youth $15).

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh 517-423-6617 or thetca.org

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Michigan Free Fishing Weekend Michigan parks and waterways, all day Fish for free on Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15 as part of the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend in Michigan. Experience the state’s world-class fishing without needing a license. All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. A Recreation Passport will not be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites during Free Fishing Weekends. Going ice fishing during the February Free Fishing Weekend?

Make sure to review ice safety tips at www.michigan.gov/freefishing.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16

program has raised more than $30,000 for local food pantries. This year’s event will benefit the Salvation Army.

“This event is a great way to see the community coming together to support and raise awareness of people who are having food insecurities,” Herr said.

Empty Bowls is open to the public and provides a “fun and relaxed atmosphere,” she said.

“The bowls are fabulous and the soup is fabulous,” Herr said. “You don’t have to make the bowl or the soup; your hardest decision is what to put into your bowl.”

— Haley Bell

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Third Thursday Live Music Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

Come downtown and enjoy live music at your favorite downtown spots.

Learn Photography Basics Workshop Jackson College at LISD Tech, 6 p.m.

Learn the basics of photography utilizing your own camera at the Jackson College at LISD Tech campus. Covered will be the essentials of photography, how to create the photo you see in your mind, camera options, and how to make them work for you. Registration required. $75.

1376 N. Main St., Adrian 517-265-5515 or jccmi.edu

Bring Your Own Talent Night The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Music, poetry, comedy, storytelling — all talents are welcome. Free.

110 E. Maumee St., Adrian thebuzzadrian.com or 517-759-3289

Theatre Siena: ‘Macbeth’ Siena Heights University, 7:30 p.m.

One of Shakespeare’s most-beloved tragedies, performed by Siena Heights theater students.

Entrance to the Spencer Performing Arts Center is off of Oakwood Road. $12.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Theatre Siena: ‘Macbeth’ Siena Heights University, 7:30 p.m.

One of Shakespeare’s most-beloved tragedies, performed by Siena Heights theater students.

Entrance to the Spencer Performing Arts Center is off of Oakwood Road. $12.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Alice in Wonderland Daughter Dance

‘Wicked: For Good’

AJ Smith Recreation Center, 1-3 p.m. or 4-6 p.m.

Girls will share an afternoon with their special guest enjoying cookies and punch, a selfie station, dancing, and more. A corsage awaits each girl to complement their outfits and Amy Wills Photography will capture the moment.

Girls will also leave with a special gift. Designed for girls ages 4-13. One adult per registration. $45 per registration for non-residents; $40 for residents; $10 per additional daughter.

810 N. Evans St., Tecumseh tecumsehparksandrec.recdesk.com 517-423-5602.

Lenawee District Library, 5 p.m.

A free family movie showing.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian

Hope in a Time of Crisis: Evolution and Religion

Read with Spartie Addison Branch library, 3:30 p.m.

Spartie the corgi will be at the Addison library ready to listen to a story. Book lovers of all ages are invited to stop by. Pick a book off the shelf or bring your own to share.

103 S. Talbot St., Addison

‘The Princess and the Frog’ Deerfield Branch Library, 4 p.m.

A free family movie showing.

170 Raisin St., Deerfield

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Panel Discussion: ‘Black Firsts: The Present’ Weber Center, 6 p.m.

A panel discussion for Black History Month featuring accomplished leaders who were the first Black individuals to attain their positions.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian

Weber Center, 9 a.m. to noon The media confront us daily with a world fracturing along lines of violence, war, and deepening division. Yet beneath this chaotic surface, something else stirs unprecedented global connectivity, emerging planetary awareness, technologies that could unite rather than divide, a generation hungry for authentic meaning. $45 (includes lunch for those attending in person). Registration required.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org or 517-423-6617

THE LENAWEE VOICE

ARTS & LIVING | C9

FEBRUARY 2026

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Hot Chocolate Hustle 5k In Memory of John “Ralphie” McDaid Adrian High School, 8:30 a.m. registration This race is a fundraiser for The John “Ralphie” McDaid Memorial Scholarship awarded each spring to a graduating senior from Adrian High School. This could be your first, fastest, or possibly slowest (depending on the weather) 5k. Hot chocolate and cookies await all finishers. All participants registered before Feb. 16 receive a longsleeved shirt. Registrations after Feb. 16 are not guaranteed a shirt. Start time is 8:30 a.m.

Race day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. $30.

Sign up at runsignup.com/Race/MI/Adrian/ HotChocolateHustleAdrian.

785 Riverside Ave., Adrian

Onsted High School Band Booster Mattress Sale Fundraiser Onsted High School, 11 a.m.

The eighth annual mattress sale to benefit Onsted High School band programs. One day only. Starting prices are twin $249, full $299, and king $499.

10109 Slee Road, Onsted

Theatre Siena: ‘Macbeth’

Cookies & Canvas for Tweens and Teens Schultz-Holmes District Library, 6 p.m.

A new event for ages 12-18 at the Blissfield Library, this is an art night with a totally open canvas for you to paint whatever you desire, whether you’re an artist or not.

407 S. Lane St., Blissfield blissfieldlibrary.org

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Tecumseh Youth Theatre: ‘The Addams Family’

Lenawee District Library Book Sale

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Bad Company Tribute by Band Company with Wingman Detroit, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Love & Love-less in the Neighborhood with the Lackeys, 7:30 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Mark Poseler, 8-11 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

Marvin Rieli, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N. Main St., Brooklyn.

Chase VanBrandt & The Dive Bar Allstars, 9 p.m., Devils Lake Bar & Grill, 6365 U.S. 223, Manitou Beach. Tip-Up Festival weekend.

Lenawee District Library, noon to 5 p.m.

Browse through gently used books, pick up a new puzzle, or grab a few magazines.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Lenawee District Library Book Sale

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Adrian District Library, 2-2:45 p.m.

“Women of the Watch, Keepers of the Light” a one-woman-play written and performed

by Kamryn Marck. It is an uplifting 45 minutes of music, laughter, and simple honest storytelling. The play follows Kamryn as she relives family trips to lighthouses in Michigan, which ignites a passion to share the spectacular stories of various female lighthouse keepers of the Great Lakes. She details the lives of four particular keepers by donning voice and movement. Ages 18 and up; registration not required. Free.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us 517-265-2265

Walk & Wag Ellis Park, Blissfield, 1 p.m.

A fun community walk with our four-legged friends. Hot cocoa will be provided for the humans and pup cups for the dogs. All friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. Free, but donations for the Lenawee Humane Society are encouraged. Sponsored by Blissfield Parks and Recreation.

223 W. Adrian St., Blissfield blissfieldmichigan.gov

Theatre Siena: ‘Macbeth’ Siena Heights University, 2:30 p.m.

One of Shakespeare’s most-beloved tragedies, performed by Siena Heights theater students.

Entrance to the Spencer Performing Arts Center is off of Oakwood Road $12.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Movie: ‘Regretting You’ Lenawee District Library, 5:30 p.m.

Based on the novel by bestselling author Colleen Hoover. Rated PG-13 and recommended for ages 16 and up. Refreshments will be provided. Also offered on Thursday.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian lenawee.lib.mi.us

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Movie: ‘Regretting You’ Lenawee District Library, 1:30 p.m.

Based on the novel by bestselling author Colleen Hoover. Rated PG-13 and recommended for ages 16 and up.

Refreshments will be provided.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian

Designer Bag Bingo Adrian Armory, 5:30-9 p.m.

The 2026 Annual Designer Bag Bingo Event benefits the Boys & Girls Club. $75 per person.

230 W. Maumee St., Adrian bgclenawee.org or 517-266-9775

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Nathan Marks, 6-9 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Chase VanBrandt & The Dive Bar Allstars, 9 p.m., Devils Lake Bar & Grill, 6365 U.S. 223, Manitou Beach. Tip-Up Festival weekend.

Lenawee District Library, 9:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Browse through gently used books, pick up a new puzzle, or grab a few magazines.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian

Heritage Park, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

This group get-together is for anyone new to trail running, or for those that just want to be in community out on the trails in nature.

Ultrarunner and coach Courtney Wolfe wants to help runners feel empowered, confident and joyful on the trail. The group meets each month to run a different trail (or series of shorter trails), progressively moving to longer distances or more varied terrain. Event by Transient Yoga and Courtney Wolfe. Free, but registration is requested at transienttraining. com.

3221 N. Adrian Hwy., Adrian transienttraining.com or 517-261-5468

Information in this listing is taken from a mixture of submissions and information published by the venues. We recommend verifying information before making plans. To submit listings, email lcline@lenaweevoice. com before the 15th of the preceding month.

Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 7 p.m.

“The Addams Family” is a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family. $15 (seniors $12, youth $10).

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

Siena Heights University, 7:30 p.m.

One of Shakespeare’s most-beloved tragedies, performed by Siena Heights theater students.

Entrance to the Spencer Performing Arts Center is off of Oakwood Road. $12.

New Beginnings Group Trail Run

LIVE MUSIC AT BARS AND NIGHT SPOTS

‘Women of the Watch, Keepers of the Light’

23rd Annual Cash-A-Fair Lenawee County Fairgrounds, 5:30 p.m.

The 23rd annual Cash-A-Fair benefits the Lenawee County Fair. Includes dinner, cash bar, games of chance, reverse raffle, live and silent auctions, 50/50 drawing, and more. $100 for two people. Tickets available at the fair office or contact a board member.

602 N. Dean St., Adrian lenfair.com or 517-263-3007

Tecumseh Youth Theatre: ‘The Addams Family’ Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 7 p.m. $15 (seniors $12, youth $10).

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 Tecumseh Youth Theatre: ‘The Addams Family’ Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 3 p.m. $15 (seniors $12, youth $10).

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

MONDAY, MARCH 2 Matinee Monday: ‘Harriet’ Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 1 p.m.

Friends of the TCA present Matinee Monday on the first Monday of every month. This month’s feature is “Harriet,” a 2019 American biographical film starring Cynthia Erivo as abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Free.

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

TUESDAY, MARCH 3 Lenawee County Family Researchers Lenawee County Historical Museum, 5:30 p.m.

Matt Pacer from the Library of Michigan will discuss the Michigan Pioneer Collections held at the Library of Michigan and how they can help genealogists researching the early settlement period of Michigan.

110 E. Church St., Adrian

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Ryan Groth, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Devils Lake Bar & Grill, 6365 US-223, Manitou Beach. TipUp Festival weekend.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Bobby Charles, 6-9 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

Dance Party with Big-L & Code Blue, 7:30-10 p.m., Jerry’s Pub, 650 Egan Hwy., Brooklyn. Admission is a donation to the Brooklyn Food Pantry. Dinner at 6 p.m., music at 7:30 p.m.. Event by the Irish Hills Roots and String Music Series. Reservations: 517-467-4700.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Dean Tartaglia, 6:30- 9:30 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield.

JTE, 7:30-10:30 p.m., Mammoth Distilling, 108 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14 The 1985 Totally 80’s Music Tribute, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Brad Skinner, 7-10 p.m., Jerry’s Pub, 650 Egan Hwy., Brooklyn.

Comedy Night with Louis D. Michael, 7- 10:30 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield.

Music at the Rex, featuring Exostra at 7 p.m., Cave Dweller at 8:10 p.m., and Ignominious at 10:15 p.m., The Rex Theatre, 235 W. Main St., Morenci. $17.85 admission.

Doors open at 6 p.m. All ages welcome.

Jack Rivers, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N. Main St., Brooklyn.

Flyte, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher St., Adrian. $5 cover for nonmembers.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Linnie & Moochie, 6-8 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave, Tipton.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Chaotic Goods, 6-8 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Bret Maynard, 6-9 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20 One Hit Wonders, 6-9 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield.

Scott and Melissa, 7-10 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Tribute by Carry On, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted.

Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute by Mister Breeze Band, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted.

Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Wishing Well, 7 p.m., Jerry’s Pub, 650 Egan Hwy., Brooklyn.

JTE, 7-10 p.m., The Tecumseh Tavern, 206 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh.

Goddess by Request: A Night with Natasha Ricketts, 7-10 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Jaded Soul, 8 p.m. to midnight Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher St., Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.

Jon Torrence, 8-11p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Mark Poseler, 6-9 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

Lexie & Mike Acoustic Duo, 7-10 p.m., Artesian Wells, 18711 US-12, Cement City.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Grateful Dead Tribute by Cosmic Rose, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Brad Skinner Jazz Trio, 7-10 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

Unplugged, 8-11 p.m., Two Lakes Tavern, 110 Walnut St., Manitou Beach.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Bordine Loar, 5-8 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield.

Bob Seger Tribute by Katmandu, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Singles Dance, 7-10 p.m., Root 52, 8452 S. Adrian Hwy., Adrian. Western theme, ages 21 and up, $10 cover. More info: 517-215-9253.

Public Scene, 7 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave, Tipton.

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FEBRERO 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

NOTICIAS LOCALES

Aceptamos envíos de noticias locales en inglés o en español. La fecha límite de cada artículo es el día 15 del mes anterior. Las noticias pueden ser enviadas por correo electrónico a news@lenaweevoice.com.

Comienza la construcción del túnel peatonal Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares

Delma Bosquez-Munoz (centro) acepta un premio por servicio comunitario de Pamela Hall (derecha), mientras su hija, Veronica Perez, observa.

Se celebra el servicio comunitario Articulo original por Erik Gable Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — Veronica Perez todavía recuerda lo que su madre, Delma Bosquez-Munoz, les decía a sus hijos en las mañanas cuando no necesitaba ir a trabajar.

“As soon as me and my late sister would get up,” recordó Perez, “she would comb our hair and she would say ‘Mommy doesn’t have to work today, so we’re going to work in the community.”

(Tan pronto como mi difunta hermana y yo nos levantábamos, ella nos peinaba y decía: ‘Mamá no tiene que trabajar hoy, así que vamos a trabajar en la comunidad”.)

Bosquez-Munoz recibió un Premio por Servicio Comunitario el 19 de enero durante la celebración anual del Día de Martin Luther King Jr. El evento tuvo lugar en Adrian College.

Su servicio comunitario incluye muchos años de ayuda a la comunidad migrante, realizando tareas como la recolección y entrega de suministros esenciales para asegurar que las necesidades básicas de las familias estuvieran cubiertas. También ha ayudado a muchas sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica, sirviendo como intérprete para residentes hispanohablantes.

Su hija señaló que ha continuado haciendo esto a pesar de los problemas de salud.

Tras aceptar el premio, BosquezMuñoz instó al público “try to be a hero for somebody. Make a difference in someone ‘s life.” (‘Intenta ser un héroe para alguien. Haz la diferencia en la vida de alguien”.)

El reverendo Robert H. Benard, fundador de Christ Temple Ministries, recibió un Premio a la Trayectoria.

Los premios estudiantiles fueron entregados a Rolen Maclin de Adrian College, Kimberly Delgado de Siena Heights University y Lila MoutonHoward de Jackson College.

El evento también honró la memoria de la Hermana Jamie Phelps, OP, miembro de la Congregación Dominicana de Adrian y una destacada estudiosa del catolicismo negro, quien falleció en noviembre.

ADRIAN — El 12 de enero comenzó la construcción del túnel peatonal planificado debajo de la calle South Main en Adrian.

El túnel formará parte del Sendero Kiwanis, un sendero peatonal y ciclista de 12.7 millas (20.4 kilómetros) que conecta Adrian con Tecumseh. Este estará ubicado justo al norte de la esquina de las calles South Main y Beecher. Según la policía, en esa intersección se registran más accidentes de tráfico que en cualquier otro lugar dentro de los límites de la ciudad.

A partir de finales de este mes, el tráfico se reducirá a dos carriles, uno en cada dirección.

En abril, el camino estará completamente cerrado durante aproximadamente una semana.

Posteriormente, habrá cierres parciales adicionales.

Está previsto que el proyecto finalice a principios de septiembre.

El proyecto está siendo financiado con fondos estatales y federales. El Administrador Municipal, Chad Baugh, afirmó que gran parte de los fondos se destinarón específicamente a este proyecto y no podrán utilizarse para otros.

Se está construyendo un túnel bajo la M-52 en Adrian.

Durante la reunión de la Comisión de la Ciudad el 20 de enero, la Alcaldesa Angela Sword Heath dijo que la seguridad de las personas que cruzan la M-52 había sido una preocupación durante mucho tiempo, pero otras ideas, como una luz intermitente o un puente sobre la calle, fueron rechazadas por el Departamento de Transporte de Michigan.

A finales de enero, las obras se suspendieron debido al frío extremo.

Está previsto que se reanuden durante la primera semana de febrero, con la eliminación de viejos postes de electricidad y la excavación en el lado oeste del camino.

No se esperan cambios en el tráfico hasta finales de febrero.

El contratista a cargo del proyecto, Prein & Newhof, está publicando actualizaciones en preinnewhof.com/ construction_projects/m52-tunnel.

Residentes protestan por violencia de agentes de ICE Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — Unas 150 personas se reunieron frente al antiguo Palacio de Justicia del Condado de Lenawee el 10 de enero después de un tiroteo en Minneapolis que dejó una mujer muerta.

En el incidente, Renee Good, de 37 años, fue asesinada a tiros por un agente del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) durante un enfrentamiento en un barrio residencial del sur de Minneapolis. El presidente Donald Trump alegó en redes sociales que atropelló al agente con su coche, pero los vídeos grabados por testigos oculares contradicen esa afirmación. Los vídeos del tiroteo muestran a Good poniendo reversa y retrocediendo, girando el volante a la derecha, alejándose del agente, y comenzando a avanzar, momento en el que el agente abrió fuego.

Los vídeos también muestran a los agentes negándose a permitir que

CALENDARIO DEL CENTRO EBEID PARA FEBRERO ADRIAN — Los siguientes programas educativos y reuniones comunitarias se llevarán a cabo en febrero en el Centro Ebeid (Ebeid Center), en el 801 este de la calle Maumee (801 E. Maumee St.), Adrian. Las clases se ofrecen en inglés a menos que aparezca una opción en español. Es posible que haya intérpretes disponibles para algunas clases si es que se necesita. Para realizar alguna consulta, envíe un correo electrónico a AdrianENP@ProMedica.org o llame al 517-264-1365. ¡Más! Fuerza y Movilidad (por YMCA) — los lunes, 2, 9,16, 23 de febrero, 4 p.m. Esta clase gratuiuta

Los manifestantes se reúnen para una manifestación contra la violencia de los agentes federales de inmigración el 10 de enero en Adrian. los transeúntes, incluido uno que se identificó como médico, le prestaran asistencia médica.

Un cartel en la protesta mostraba una lista de personas que fueron baleadas

por agentes o que murieron bajo custodia del ICE. Según un informe de The Guardian, 32 personas murieron bajo custodia del ICE en 2025, la cifra más alta en unos 20 años.

fortalece y fortalece la estabilidad. Te moverás con más libertad tras esta dinámica clase de cuerpo entero que combina entrenamiento de fuerza funcional con ejercicios de movilidad para mejorar la salud articular, la fuerza, la flexibilidad y el control.

Especialidad de Yoga para Personas Mayores (por YMCA) — los martes, 10, 17 y 24 de febrero, 4 p.m. Estas clases son adecuadas para todos los niveles de habilidad. Esta serie gratuita continuará e incluirá nuevas propuestas.

Reunión de la Coalición Comunitaria (Coalición de East Adrian) — el lunes, 9 de febrero, 5 p.m. La Coalición se reúne el segundo lunes de cada mes. Deje que se escuche su voz y contribuya a la conversación sobre cómo los residentes pueden impactar a su comunidad.

RCP y Primeros Auxilios para Bebés e Infantiles (Lenawee Great Start Collaborative) — el martes, 17 de febrero, 4:30-6 p.m. La popular serie Family Network ofrecida por el Lenawee Great Start Collaborative vuelve este mes. La cena está incluida y se proporciona cuidado infantil mientras los adultos aprenden RCP y primeros auxilios para bebés e infantiles. No se otorga ningún certificado. Se requiere registro. Esto es para familias con niños de 0 a 12 años en el condado de Lenawee.

Padres de Lenawee (facilitado por De’Angelo Boone) — el martes, 24 de febrero, 4-5 p.m. Los padres del condado de Lenawee están cordialmente invitados a ser parte de esta iniciativa de apoyo al padre. Damos la bienvenida a todos los padres y agencias de apoyo comunitario.

THE LENAWEE VOICE

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FEBRUARY 2026

La caridad hace camas para niños necesitados

Christina Villalobos participa en un evento para construir camas para niños necesitados. El evento se llevó a cabo en el Centro Tecnológico LISD, donde voluntarios construyeron 50 camas para niños del Condado de Lenawee.

Articulo original por Arlene Bachanov Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — Para la mayoría de los niños, tener su propia cama cómoda y segura para dormir es algo que pueden dar por sentado.

Pero si una familia está en necesidad, tal vez están en una vivienda de transición, o han perdido sus bienes del hogar en un incendio u otro desastre, o las camas son un gasto que no pueden afrontar, la noche para esos niños puede significar compartir una cama o incluso dormir en el suelo.

El grupo sin fines de lucro Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Duerme en Paz Celestial), que construye camas individuales para niños necesitados, quiere cambiar eso en el Condado de Lenawee.

La División del grupo del Condado de Monroe organizó un evento de construcción de camas en noviembre en

el Centro Tecnológico de LISD y pronto, una nueva división estará operando en el Condado de Lenawee.

Tim Taylor dirige la sección del Condado de Monroe. Es paramédico y presenció lo que puede suceder cuando un niño no tiene cama. Respondió a un incidente en el que una familia entera dormía en colchones inflables y un niño murió cuando el colchón en el que dormían se desinfló.

Ese incidente lo impulsó a unirse a Duerme en Paz Celestial. Comentó que, a veces, los niños a los que atienden nunca han tenido una cama propia.

Actualmente, la sección del Condado de Monroe está manejando las solicitudes de las familias del Condado de Lenawee, pero la sección local debería estar funcionando en el verano.

Para obtener más información, visite shpbeds.org o facebook.com/ SHPMonroeCoMI.

Lindisfarne from page C1 She will be at the ACA to share some thoughts about the land during a closing reception on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 2-4 p.m.

“Rooting Around at Lindisfarne” isn’t the first time the ACA has put together an exhibit that incorporates found materials into art. Previously, an exhibit put together in partnership with a Rotary Club river cleanup featured things found in the River Raisin.

“Most people like nature — they like things from nature,” Shaffer said.

“Seeing them put together in different ways from what they usually are is astounding.”

She said participating in an exercise like this is an enjoyable challenge for artists.

“It gets your juices flowing, and it’s sort of a happy feeling to think of something new that you haven’t done before,” she said.

Croswell from page C1 afternoon performance of “George M!” which will honor both 160 years of the Croswell Opera House and the 250th birthday of the U.S. Community members of all ages are invited to enjoy ice cream, conversation, and a shared celebration of two milestones.

On Aug. 7, the theater will host a Croswell Family Reunion, a free outdoor party celebrating the extended Croswell family of artists, volunteers,

“Puck,” a piece by Bev Bailey from the “Rooting Around at Lindisfarne” exhibit at the Adrian Center for the Arts.

“Rooting Around at Lindisfarne” opened on Jan. 12 and is on display through Feb. 22. For more information about the Adrian Center for the Arts, call 517-759-3005 or go to adriancenterforthearts.org.

patrons, and supporters. The event will feature live entertainment, food, and drink, with guests encouraged to bring photo albums and memories to share.

The anniversary year concludes Dec. 12 and 13 with a concert, “Home for the Holidays.” The Dec. 12 performance will be preceded by a ticketed gala.

Additional events and celebrations will be announced throughout the year.

For more information, go to croswell. org or follow the Croswell on Facebook at facebook.com/thecroswell.

The Croswell is at 129 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian.

El edificio de la calle Winter será demolido

WE’RE HIRING! Looking for a career with purpose?

Join our team at the LISD! Whether in a classroom, on a school bus, or in an office, our goal is the same: supporting and serving learners.

Está previsto que el edificio ubicado en la calle 227 N. Winter sea demolido.

ADRIAN — Está previsto que el edificio ubicado en la calle 227 N. Winter sea demolido.

La Comisión de la Ciudad de Adrian aprobó un contrato para la demolición en su reunión del 20 de enero.

Es parte de un proyecto más grande destinado a preparar el área frente al río a lo largo de la calle North Winter para el desarrollo futuro.

Behnke se reunirá con sus constituyentes ADRIAN — El Comisionado Municipal Bob Behnke invita a los residentes a reunirse con él para tratar cualquier tema que les preocupe. Behnke estará disponible el miércoles 11 de febrero, de 6 a 7 p. m., en Gallery of Shops (Galería de Tiendas), ubicada en 136 E. Maumee St.

Careers at the LISD span a range of programs and services, including special education, career and technical education, general education, early childhood, adult learning, transportation, technology, and administrative and support services.

View Our Latest Openings:

www.lisd.us/careers No fax or email copies, please. Background checks will be conducted.

The Lenawee Intermediate School District (LISD) Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category, in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. For more details, including policies and contact information, visit www.lisd.us/eoe.

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FEBRUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE

This Month in Downtown Adrian:

February

First Friday - Downtown Eras Tour Friday, February 6th

The Downtown Eras Tour is taking over First Friday! Grab your friends, dress as your favorite Taylor Swift era, and enjoy a night filled with shopping, music, and Swiftie-inspired fun while supporting our amazing downtown businesses. No bad blood here—just good vibes, unforgettable memories, and a night you’ll be thinking about all too well.

Shop and Stroll- Love Local Saturday, February 14th

Love Local is your chance to support the businesses that make our downtown special! Spend the day strolling downtown, shopping local, enjoying special offerings, and showing some love to the heart of our community.

Third Thursday- Live Music Thursday, February 19th

Downtown Adrian comes alive this Third Thursday with live music filling your favorite local spots! Grab some friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak up the sounds of talented local musicians all around downtown. It’s the perfect midweek vibe!

What’s Happenin’ Wednesday Wednesday, February 25th

Discover What’s Happening Wednesday downtown! This day we’re spotlighting our amazing service businesses—from beauty and wellness to professional services that keep our community thriving. Take a stroll, learn what’s available, and support the local experts who are here for you year-round.

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

#ItHappensDowntown downtownadrian.com

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