Para noticias locales en español, por favor vaya a la página A13 For Mike and Zach Zyla, coaching basketball runs in the family
Palmyra Township approves plans for new fire station
» PAGE A10
Symphony helps support development of new music
» PAGE B1
» PAGE C1
THE LENAWEE VOICE
ADRIAN, MICHIGAN
Three new recycling dropoff locations now open ADRIAN — Lenawee County recently announced the launch of a nine-month trial offering new recycling dropoff locations in three communities. In addition to the existing recycling dropoff site at the corner of Race Street and River Street in Adrian, residents can now bring their recycling to dumpsters at the following locations: n 125 E. Second St., Onsted. n The parking lot on North Lane Street in Blissfield just north of U.S. 223. n The 100 block of Mechanic Street in Hudson, next to the trail. These new sites are made possible through a Materials Management Planning grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy as part of a statewide effort to divert more waste from landfills. “The pilot created by the county’s Materials Management Committee is designed to increase recycling opportunities for residents who don’t have access to curbside recycling services,” Lenawee County solid waste coordinator Julie Maurer said. Accepted materials include: n Paper and cardboard (please remove packing materials and break down boxes). n No. 1 through No. 7 plastics. n Aluminum cans. n Glass. Plastics, cans and glass should be clean and dry. The new dumpsters are for commingled recycling, meaning items do not need to be separated.
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See RECYCLING, page A4
FREE JANUARY 2026
LOCAL NEWS FOR ADRIAN AND LENAWEE COUNTY
3 SECTIONS | 36 PAGES
‘I try to live what I preach’ Founder of Christ Temple Ministries in Adrian to be recognized for a lifetime of service By Erik Gable
The Lenawee Voice
ADRIAN — Not many people can say that a college research paper changed the course of their life. But that’s what happened to Robert H. Benard when he was a sophomore at Wayne State University. During an anthropology class, his professor asked if anyone would take on a research project about young people who were turning to faith. Benard agreed. “I went to church to do a research paper,” he said. “I did the report, got an A, and I never left the church.” While researching that paper, he met a woman named Andre’a, who would later become his wife. It also set him on the path to becoming a minister and ultimately the founder of Christ Temple Ministries International in Adrian, where he has been senior pastor for nearly 50 years. Benard, 84, will be honored with a lifetime achievement award at the 38th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration, which will take place at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, in the Tobias Center at Adrian College. Benard was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Like many Black families who left the South in the middle of the 20th century, his family moved to Michigan when he was a child. He graduated in 1960 from the former Roosevelt High School, now called Robichaud High School, in Dearborn Heights. He began his college studies at Henry Ford Community College while caring for his mother, who had suffered a series of injuries at her job. He then transferred to Wayne State University, where he studied sociology and would ultimately earn a master’s degree in social work. He began his career working for the state, helping people who needed public assistance. The 1967 Detroit riots took place right in the heart of the district he served. When a mentor suggested that he go into administration, he was reluctant at first, feeling that he wanted to work directly with people. But then she asked: “If you could get five or six people who thought the way you think, how many people could you help?”
The Rev. Robert H. Benard — founder, senior pastor, and bishop of Christ Temple Ministries International — will be honored at the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on Jan. 19. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE He began working as director of a halfway house for delinquent boys, then helped found Wayne County’s first halfway house for girls. Then in January 1973, he was hired as administrative assistant to the superintendent at Adrian Training School. “That’s how I got to Adrian,” he said. He worked at the Adrian Training School for two years, being promoted to assistant superintendent before he left. He then served for several years as superintendent of the W.J. Maxey Training School for boys in Whitmore Lake. It was during that time that he first heard the call to ministry. In 1977, he founded Christ Temple Church at the corner of Frank and Ann streets. In the 1990s he was elected pastor of Faith Temple at 3665 Deerfield Road, and merged the congregations into one. Benard said that although people often see him and assume Christ Temple Ministries is a Black church, “this is a
Bohn Pool replacement won’t be part of school district bond proposal » PAGE A2
very diverse church.” He estimated that the congregation is about one-third Hispanic, one-third Caucasian, and onethird Black. “God prepared me for this type of community because of the community I grew up in,” he said. The church family has grown as Christ Temple Ministries International has helped plant many sister congregations over the years — two in Jackson, one in Inkster, one in Ypsilanti, one in Detroit, one in Lansing, and one in California just outside of Los Angeles. Benard serves as bishop for all of them. Wherever they are, the churches that are part of Christ Temple Ministries seek to meet the needs of their community. At Christ Temple City of Refuge in Inkster, the church bought its building from a church that had previously run a food program and found that people were
See BENARD, page A15
Adrian Dominican Sisters host presentation on immigration » PAGE A5
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JANIUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
Nate Parker, superintendent of Adrian Public Schools, talks with district residents during a meeting on Nov. 25 about a proposal for a community recreation center. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE
Bohn Pool replacement won’t be part of school bond proposal ADRIAN — The Adrian school district has decided not to add an outdoor public pool to a proposal to build a community recreation facility. On Dec. 17, the school board approved a ballot proposal asking voters to fund the construction of a new community recreation center next to Adrian High School. The proposal will be on the May 5 ballot. It calls for building an 80,000-squarefoot recreation center that would include a 60-yard turf field, a track, a fitness center, batting cages, and three multipurpose courts that could be used for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or tennis. When the Adrian City Commission decided to stop putting money into repairing Bohn Pool, which is more than 50 years old, the school district considered adding a public pool to its proposal. After two public forums and a telephone survey, the district decided not to pursue that idea. District officials say the recreation center would be open to the community when not in use by students. The estimated cost is $27.5 million. The school district is asking voters to approve an 0.65-mill property tax, which would amount to $65 per year for the owner of a home valued at $200,000. Superintendent Nate Parker said the benefits to students would include additional practice space, particularly for the cheer and dance teams; space for marching band practice and band camp; offseason workouts for all sports; increased youth recreation space and programming; year-round training opportunities for all students; and options for indoor practices during poor weather. He said community benefits would include an affordable option for health and wellness; pickleball, volleyball, basketball and tennis courts; recreation and travel tournaments; and economic impact for local businesses. APS community recreation director Toby Ernst added: “The number of participants in our youth recreation programs continues to grow every year and every season. This facility will help to support and expand those programs for our youth, but will also offer an affordable option for adults in our community to enhance their health and wellness.”
THE LENAWEE VOICE
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JANUARY 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.
Adrian library to host free technology classes ADRIAN — The Adrian District Library is hosting in-person classes to help participants gain confidence and new skills using a computer or smartphone. Classes will be led by library director Jen Wrzesinski and will be held in the community room at the library, 143 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian. Google Drive Basics will be offered on Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 6 to 7:45 p.m. In this class, participants will learn the many ways in which Google Drive can be used for uploading, organizing, and sharing files in the cloud. Attendees should have previous experience navigating a computer using a mouse and keyboard.
All About Apps and QR Codes will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 21, from 1 to 2:45 p.m. This class will focus on what apps are, where to find them, and how to install, update and remove them from devices. Wrzesinski will discuss the difference between free and paid apps, and talk about popular types of apps. This class will also cover what QR codes are, what you can do with them, how to scan them, and how to use them safely. There’s no cost to attend these classes, but space is limited and registration is required. To register, go to adrian.lib.mi.us or call the library at 517-265-2265.
Traveling holocaust museum coming to Adrian this spring ADRIAN — The Adrian Diversity Event Fund, in partnership with the Zekelman Holocaust Center in Farmington Hills, is arranging for a traveling exhibit about the Holocaust to be displayed in Adrian this spring. The traveling museum is designed as a learning-centered experience. The exhibit will feature professionally designed interpretive panels, primary source materials, survivor testimony, and interactive elements that emphasize
historical understanding alongside civic responsibility. The Adrian Diversity Event Fund will be curating a local component, which will include how the Holocaust was reported in the Adrian Daily Telegram. The exhibit will be hosted by the Gallery of Shops at 136 E. Maumee St. For updates and more information, follow the Adrian Diversity Event Fund on Facebook at facebook.com/ AdrianDiversityEventFund.
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A4 | LOCAL NEWS
POLICE REPORTS Following are reports from law enforcement agencies listed in the Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information Systems (CLEMIS) database. ADDISON Dec. 12: Drug possession, 200 block of North Comstock Street. ADRIAN Nov. 17: Assault, 600 block of James Street. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 100 block of East Michigan Street. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street. Nov. 18: Larceny from a vehicle, 1200 block of East Beecher Street. Disorderly conduct, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Illegal credit card use, 1300 block of South Main Street. Fraud, 300 block of Erie Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Nov. 19: Retail fraud, 1300 block of Division Street. Property damage, 700 block of Treat Street. Larceny from a yard, 800 block of Howell Avenue. Assault, 100 block of South Scott Street. Retail fraud, 1000 block of North Main Street. Nov. 20: Sexual assault, 1100 block of East Maumee Street. Wire fraud, 400 block of Merrick Street. Property damage, 400 block of West South Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 1100 block of Erie Street. Assault, 500 block of Dennis Street. Assault and larceny, 200 block of North Main Street. Identity theft, 800 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Nov. 21: Assault, 200 block of East Michigan Street. Sexual assault, 600 block of College Avenue. Telephone harassment or threats, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Illegal credit card use, 1100 block of Division Street. Nov. 22: Operating while intoxicated, Madison and Vine streets. Nov. 23: Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street. Stalking, 1000 block of Chestnut Street. Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Assault, 700 block of Erie Street. Nov. 24: Assault, 100 block of Dawes Street (two reports). Property damage, 700 block of East Church Street.
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE Nov. 25: Assault, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Larceny from a yard, 1100 block of East Maple Avenue. Assault, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Assault, 200 block of Division Street. Nov. 26: Assault, 300 block of Frank Street. Nov. 27: Larceny from a vehicle, 700 block of North Main Street. Assault and operating while intoxicated, South Madison Street and Beecher Road. Assault less than murder, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Nov. 28: Disorderly conduct, 200 block of Chestnut Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 600 block of Comstock Street. Nov. 29: Disturbing the peace, 200 block of Chestnut Street. Assault, 600 block of James Street. Disorderly conduct, 600 block of James Street. Dec. 1: Assault, 1600 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, 200 block of North Broad Street. Assault, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 500 block of East Church Street. Assault, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Retail fraud, 1300 block of Division Street . Dec. 2: Assault, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 500 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 1300 block of South Winter Street. Property damage, 700 block of South Main Street. Assault, 700 block of South Main Street. Dec. 3: Assault, 700 block of St. Joseph Street. Sexual assault, 500 block of South Winter Street. Dec. 4: Larceny from the mail, 1400 block of Meadowbrook Court. Dec. 5: Sexual assault, 600 block of Oak Street. Assault and burglary (residential, forced entry), 800 block of East Maumee Street. Larceny from a yard, 300 block of Erie Street. Robbery, 1400 block of South Main Street. Assault, 400 block of Dennis Street. Assault, 900 block of East Butler Street. Larceny from a yard, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 300 block of East Church Street. Dec. 6: Assault, 1500 block of Stratford Drive. Dec. 7: Property damage, 300 block of Frank Street. Assault, 600 block of Oak Street. Dec. 8: Assault, 900 block of Erie Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, 100 block of Chestnut Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 600 block of St. Joseph Street. Dec. 9: Vehicle theft, 200 block of Pearl Street. Larceny from a yard, 600 block of East Maumee Street. Drug possession, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 100 block of Elm Court. Assault, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Property damage, 100 block of Elm Court. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 1500 block of Village Green Lane. Dec. 11: Identity theft, 1100 block of Berkshire Drive. Retail fraud, 1300 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a building, 400 block of College Avenue. Assault, 500 block of Dennis Street. Dec. 12: Assault, 300 block of Erie Street. Assault, 1000 block of South Main Street. Dec. 13: Assault, 300 block of East Church Street. Property damage, 1300 block of South Winter Street. Property damage, 1100 block of South Main Street. Dec. 15: Drug possession, 500 block of Cherry Street. Illegal credit card use, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Dec. 16: Vehicle theft, 500 block of French Street. Assault, 100 block of Canterbury Drive. Sexual assault, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Disorderly conduct, 400 block of East Maumee Street. Illegal credit card use, 1000 block of West Maumee Street. Retail
Recycling from page A1 Residents are reminded to use the dumpsters for recyclables only, not for household trash. “The county and our municipal partners are most concerned about preventing illegal dumping and keeping
fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Fraud, 1000 block of East Hunt Street. Dec. 17: Disorderly conduct, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Assault, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Assault, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Dec. 18: Assault, 700 block of East Church Street. Identity theft, 400 block of Dennis Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. ADRIAN TOWNSHIP Dec 4: Assault, 1000 block of Loren Road. Dec. 10: Assault, 2600 block of Pfister Highway. BRITTON Dec. 16: Fraud, 200 block of South Main Street. CAMBRIDGE TOWNSHIP Nov. 21: Property damage, 8500 block of West M-50. DEERFIELD Dec. 4: Fraud, 200 block of Carey Street. FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP Nov. 24: Sexual assault, 1100 block of Seneca Street. Dec. 13: Assault, 11800 block of Morse Highway. FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP Nov. 23: Burglary (non-residential, no forced entry), 5800 block of Feller Road. Nov. 24: Assault, 1000 block of Breyman Highway. Nov. 28: Assault, 11800 block of Carson Highway. Dec. 3: Property damage, Tipton Highway and U.S. 12. Dec. 18: Wire fraud, 4800 block of Kemp Road. HUDSON TOWNSHIP Nov. 17: Sexual assault, 14700 block of Lawrence Road. Nov. 28: Fraud, 600 block of South Meridian Road. Dec. 14: Assault, 600 block of Valentine Lane. MACON TOWNSHIP Nov. 17: Identity theft, 8900 block of Britton Highway. MADISON TOWNSHIP Nov. 17: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Nov. 18: Assault, 200 block of Tiffany Street. Nov. 19: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Nov. 20: Fraud, 2700 block of East Carleton Road. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Nov. 22: Assault, 2300 block of Airport Road. Assault, 2300 block of Ruby Street. Nov. 23: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223 (two reports). Nov. 24: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Nov. 25: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Nov. 26: Retail fraud and drug possession, 2000 block of East U.S. 223. Dec. 1: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 2300 block of Ruby Street. Burglary (nonresidential, forced entry), 2900 block of Treat Highway. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 3000 block of Hillview Drive. Dec. 2: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Dec. 3: Illegal credit card use, 2000 block of East U.S. 223.
the recycling streams clean,” Maurer said. “We hope the community will use this opportunity responsibly.” Lenawee County has contracted with LRS to service the recycling dumpsters twice weekly throughout the pilot period. “Thank you to Onsted, Hudson, and Blissfield for partnering with us to host the expanded sites,” Maurer added. “This expansion is the result of strong
Dec. 4: Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 2400 block of East U.S. 223. Dec. 7: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Dec. 8: Assault, 200 block of Tiffany Street. Dec. 14: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Dec. 16: Assault, 200 block of Tiffany Street. Dec. 17: Larceny, 2600 block of Treat Highway. Dec. 18: Larceny from a building, 1300 block of West Cadmus Road. MORENCI Dec. 3: Telephone harassment or threats, 400 block of North Street. OGDEN TOWNSHIP Nov. 25: Larceny from a yard, 5900 block of East Mulberry Road. PALMYRA TOWNSHIP Nov. 17: Operating while intoxicated, East U.S. 223 and Grosvenor Highway. Nov. 24: Larceny, 3000 block of Manor Drive. Nov. 30: Assault, 1500 block of Academy Road. Dec. 6: Assault, 6400 block of Treat Highway. RAISIN TOWNSHIP Dec. 16: Assault, 3600 block of Roberts Meadow Drive. ROLLIN TOWNSHIP Dec. 14: Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 17000 block of Forrister Road. Dec. 17: Larceny from a yard, 9600 block of Pottawatamie Drive. ROME TOWNSHIP Dec. 15: Fraud, 11200 block of Shepherd Road. Dec. 18: Operating while intoxicated, Rome Road and North Hawkins Highway. SENECA TOWNSHIP Nov. 20: Assault, 8000 block of St. Clair Street. TECUMSEH Nov. 19: Larceny, Evans Street and M-50. Retail fraud, 800 block of West Chicago Boulevard. Nov. 21: Property damage, 100 block of South Division Street. Nov. 25: Property damage, 1000 block of East Chicago Boulevard. Nov. 28: Operating while intoxicated, Brown Street at Spring Street. Dec. 5: Retail fraud, 2600 block of West Chicago Boulevard. Sexual assault, 700 block of Brown Street. Dec. 9: Operating while intoxicated, 1200 block of East Chicago Boulevard. Dec. 11: Assault and property damage, 700 block of Brown Street. Dec. 13: Assault, Bonner Drive and North Rogers Highway. Disorderly conduct, 100 block of South Evans Street. Dec. 14: Assault and burglary (residential, forced entry), 100 block of Burt Street. Dec. 16: Retail fraud, 100 block of West Chicago Boulevard. Dec. 17: Assault, 300 block of East Pottawatamie Street. TECUMSEH TOWNSHIP Nov. 17: Assault, 5300 block of East M-50. Dec. 17: Illegal credit card use, 9300 block of Tonneberger Drive. WOODSTOCK TOWNSHIP Dec. 15: Larceny from a building, 16400 block of Wheaton Road.
collaboration across our county.” For questions about accepted materials or information on where to take other items, email solid.waste@ lenawee.mi.us or call 517-264-4511. After the nine-month trial, the county and participating municipalities will evaluate the program’s continuation and potential expansion based on usage and the availability of state funding.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
LOCAL NEWS | A5
JANUARY 2026
IN BRIEF Lenawee Pride becomes an independent organization ADRIAN — The annual Lenawee Pride festival, which was founded in 2019 by the local nonprofit The M Society, is now spinning off into an independent organization. The M Society, which seeks to improve the wellbeing of Lenawee County’s LGBTQIA+ community, will redirect its energy toward its roots of organizing smaller events and providing direct aid to the community, while the new group will take on the task of organizing an annual Pride festival. Organizers invite anyone who is interested in learning more or getting involved to attend a “birthday party” for the new group on Saturday, Jan. 17, from 5-8 p.m. at Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. More information is available by contacting board chair Kristina Henning at lenaweepride@gmail.com.
Lean Rocket Lab and Lenawee Now offer event on small business resources ADRIAN — Small business owners in Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties are welcome to attend a special event on Tuesday, Jan. 6, to learn about local resources available for their business. The event will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Align Center, 440 E. Church St., Adrian. There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested by sending an email to marketing@lenaweenow.org.
City commissioners offer drop-in conversations ADRIAN — Adrian city commissioners Bob Behnke and Aaron Chesher will hold a joint Commissioner Conversations session from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8, at the Adrian District Library. This is not an official city meeting, but an informal opportunity hosted by Behnke and Chesher for city residents to talk with a commissioner.
Grass Lake schools to partner with Adrian College ADRIAN — Grass Lake Community Schools agreed to a partnership with Adrian College on Dec. 4 to receive a wide range of educational opportunities for its students, staff and faculty members. The partnership includes early enrollment for students who want to get a jump-start on their college education, designated scholarships for graduates who enroll at Adrian College, and professional development options for teachers and staff. “We are really interested in blurring the lines between high school and college,” said Adrian College president Jeffrey Docking.
Update to January schedule at Robinson Planetarium ADRIAN — Adrian College’s Robinson Planetarium will feature the program “Artemis II Space Launch to the Moon and Beyond” at 7 p.m. on Fridays, Jan. 9, 16, 23 and 30. This program replaces the one listed in the Arts & Living section of this paper, which went to press before the change was announced.
Immigration developments discussed By Erik Gable
The Lenawee Voice
ADRIAN — The current status of immigration in the United States was the subject of a talk on Dec. 10 by Sister Attracta Kelly, OP, an immigration attorney and director emerita of the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ Immigration Assistance Office. The talk took place at the Weber Retreat and Conference Center on the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ campus. Kelly began with a description of the different terms used in immigration law: n An immigrant is a person who migrates to another country to live permanently. n A person who has been admitted to the United States for a specific, temporary period and purpose, such as for tourism, temporary work, or study, is a non-immigrant. n A refugee is a person who lives outside their country of nationality and is recognized as someone who is unable or unwilling to return to that country due to past persecution or a well-founded fear of future persecution. Kelly noted that before any refugee comes to the U.S., they have already been evaluated by the United Nations’ refugee agency. n An asylum seeker is a person who has fled their home country and is unable or unwilling to return to that country, due to past persecution or a well-founded fear of future prosecution, but that claim has not yet been proven or acknowledged. “According to international law, asylum seekers have the right to apply for asylum in a free country, and the free country must allow the person to present their case,” Kelly said. n A Green Card holder, or legal permanent resident, is a person who has been granted authorization to live and work in the U.S. permanently. This person is normally eligible to seek citizenship after three or five years depending on circumstances. n An undocumented person is someone who has migrated into the country in violation of the immigration laws of the country and without the legal right to be or remain in the U.S. She also discussed the ways a person can obtain legal status. One is the familybased method, in which a U.S. citizen or person with legal status can petition to have a family member join them. However, that process can be extremely long, depending on both the relationship to the person and the country they are coming from. People coming from Mexico have an especially long wait, with the longest now approaching 25 years for a legal permanent resident who applies for a visa for a sibling. Other methods include seeking asylum, which has become much more difficult during the Trump administration. People can also obtain legal status if they have been a victim of certain crimes, but Kelly noted that pathway is difficult. “They, in order to do that, have to report that crime to the police,” she said. “They also have to be brave enough — now remember, they’re undocumented — they have to be brave enough to go to court and testify in that case against the person who has committed the crime. That’s not an easy one.” A person who is waiting for a visa to be available does not have any legal status, she said. Nearly all methods of entering the U.S. or seeking legal status have become much more difficult, Kelly said.
Sister Attracta Kelly, OP, speaks during a recent talk on immigration law at the Weber Center in Adrian. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE As of Dec. 2, she said, immigration officials have been instructed to place a hold on all asylum applications regardless of where the person comes from. In addition, the Trump administration has said it will revisit the status of about 223,000 people who received asylum during the Biden administration. The administration has also ordered a halt to processing of applications for permanent residence for refugees who entered during that period. Temporary protected status, which allows people to remain in the U.S. temporarily due to conditions such as war or disaster that prevent them from safely returning home, has been ended for people from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, South Sudan and Venezuela. Temporary protected status is scheduled to end soon for people from Haiti, Yemen, Somalia, El Salvador, Sudan and Ukraine. Attempts to end the status for people from Burma and Syria have been temporarily halted by a court order. The administration has also eliminated a humanitarian program that provided people fleeing instability in Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela an opportunity to legally enter the U.S. as long as they had a U.S.-based supporter and passed a security vetting. Anyone who entered under this program is required to leave. Deportation efforts are being assisted by the IRS, although Kelly said IRS data is normally confidential. She noted that this is possible because undocumented immigrants paid an estimated $90 billion in taxes in 2023, about $56 billion of it in federal taxes. Agents have been ordered to arrest at least 3,000 people per day, and immigration judges — who, unlike judges in most courts, work for the executive branch — have been instructed to help speed up deportation. Kelly also noted that people are being arrested when they show up for hearings or check-ins with ICE, which is what they’re supposed to do. “This creates terror and fear for individuals and families, because now they go ‘Is my hearing a trap? Is it something just to get me there? Is ICE waiting to deport me?’ But they have no choice. They have to go to the hearing,” she said. In addition, there used to be a list of places where agents would not carry out immigration arrests — such as schools, hospitals, places of worship, playgrounds, disaster shelters, or ceremonies like weddings and funerals.
That policy was rescinded on the day of Trump’s inauguration. The Supreme Court has also ruled that a person can be detained based on their race or ethnicity, their presence at a particular location, the type of work they do, or speaking with a particular accent. Kelly said this has led to many U.S. citizens, especially Latino men, being arrested by agents who treat them roughly and refuse to look at their proof of citizenship. “There are credible reports of Americans having been dragged, tackled, beaten, tased, shot and having their necks kneeled on by immigration agents,” she said. “At least three U.S. citizens were pregnant when agents detained them.” However, she said, people can do things to protect their neighbors. Sister Mary Kay Homan, OP, spoke about what federal agents have been doing in Evanston, Illinois, and how residents have responded. Homan said she recently visited Evanston, where agents have been getting more and more aggressive. “They went into a local grade school with guns drawn and stopped a Halloween celebration. They have been driving around Evanston in unmarked cars with darkly tinted glass windows,” Homan said. A few days before her visit, she said, “a woman was following a car with ICE agents. The agents entered the intersection and suddenly slammed on their brakes so that the woman in the car behind rearended them. They pulled the woman from the car, not gently I might add.” She continued: “The statement from ICE was that their car was slowing down to make a U-turn, and that is a lie. I was in that intersection and there is no way you can make a U-turn there.” Homan said the amount of violence used by the agents was shocking. “A man tried to protect the woman taken from the car,” she said. “He was bodyslammed to the road and beaten by three ICE agents. … The agents deployed pepper spray against the large crowd of residents. They pointed guns at people videotaping the incident. Three people were detained, all American citizens I might add, the driver of the car and two bystanders. The three who were detained were later released without being charged or even fingerprinted, probably because there were so many witnesses and videos.” Homan said the people of Evanston have banded together to make sure ICE agents’ actions are documented, using whistles to alert each other to situations in progress. Kelly said it’s useful to make sure agents know their actions are being witnessed and recorded. “If ICE is doing a very aggressive pickup, if people surround and are videoing what’s happening, I think it calms them down and they are not so terribly aggressive then,” she said. “If we see ICE in the area, it helps enormously if people gather around … usually if there are people there, then ICE becomes more civil.” She called on people to help their neighbors, quoting the words of Pope Leo XIV: “At a time when people feel powerless to help migrants and refugees, Christians must continue to insist that there is no justice without compassion, no legitimacy without listening to the pain of others.” For more information about the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ Immigration Assistance Office, go to adriandominicans.org/ImmigrationAssistance or call 517-266-3526.
A6 | LOCAL NEWS
JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
NEWS FROM AROUND LENAWEE COUNTY ADRIAN
BROOKLYN
$100,000 CRIMSON HOLDINGS SETTLEMENT DISCUSSED: More than two years ago, the now-bankrupt Crimson Holdings was ordered to pay the city of Adrian $100,000 for the benefit of residents affected by nuisance odors emanating from the powdered egg plant on East Maumee Street. Community Development Director Lisa Hewitt-Cruz encouraged east side residents at a Dec. 8 meeting to think big, think bold, and think outside the box about how the money could be used to positively impact all residents in the community. Residents responded with plenty of suggestions, including issuing minigrants to homeowners and renters, installing LED lights and charging stations, and a further extension of the Kiwanis Trail into east side neighborhoods. Other ideas included window air conditioners, a spay-and-neuter program for feral cats, creating community gardens, additional playground equipment and safety features for east side parks, establishing outdoor workout areas, creating community service programs for teens, and assisting the migrant population. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO
DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN BUILDING BEING REHABILITATED: A nearly 160-year-old building in Brooklyn is undergoing renovations with an eye towards converting what had been a deteriorating three-story structure on Monroe Street into a mixed-use building. The plan involves retail stores on the ground level and apartments on the other two floors. Purchased by a former Addison resident a little over a year ago, the building that was once a hotel is now on pace to be converted to new uses within the next six months. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO
NEW SUBCOMMITTEE TO OVERSEE ENHANCEMENT GRANT SPENDING: An ad-hoc subcommittee has been appointed to oversee the spending of the $15 million enhancement grant that the city received through a state budget earmark in 2022. The group will review eligible projects and make recommendations to the city commission on spending the funds. The group consists of city administrator Chad Baugh; community development director Lisa Hewitt-Cruz; finance director Nathan Owen; engineering services director Matt Tomaszewski; Pat Farver, representing Lenawee Now, which has been administering the funds; Darcy Gifford, representing the Downtown Development Authority; city commissioners Bob Behnke, Mary Roberts and Matt Schwartz; and city residents Guy Smith and James Trull. — LENAWEE VOICE ARMSTRONG NAMED ACTING FIRE CHIEF: Capt. Anthony (A.J.) Armstrong was named acting fire chief for the city of Adrian at the city commission’s Dec. 1 meeting, following the retirement of Aric Massingill. — LENAWEE VOICE TOMASZEWSKI TO SERVE AS INTERIM PARKS DIRECTOR: Matt Tomaszewski, director of engineering services, was named interim parks and recreation director on Dec. 1, following the departure of Jeremiah Davies. Tomaszewski has served in the role before. — LENAWEE VOICE APPOINTMENTS APPROVED: The Adrian City Commission approved several appointments on Dec. 15. Joaquin Ramos and Brandi Johns were reappointed to the Adrian District Library board. Community development director Lisa HewittCruz was appointed and finance director Nathan Owen was reappointed to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority board. Clarke Baldwin, Peter Barr, Maya Gangadharan, Betsy Lackey and Brenda Rigdon were all reappointed to the Historic District Commission, and Megan Greenwell and Christina Lewis were added to the commission. Don Taylor was reappointed to the Board of Review, which reviews property assessments in the city. Mike Jacobitz, Robert Love, Don Taylor, Brian Watson and Nancy Weatherby were all reappointed to the Planning Commission. Mike Berthold, Cindy Bily, Gerald Burg, Mike Jacobitz and Maralee Koleski were all reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals, and James Trull was added to the board. — LENAWEE VOICE RESIDENTS WARNED OF FAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT CALLS: Adrian police are warning residents to beware of calls from someone claiming to be from the Adrian Fire Department and demanding credit card information to cover an invoice for a supposed “unauthorized fire.” Police say an Adrian resident recently received such a call, and that the scammer provided information that sounded credible. However, the resident did not provide the requested information and contacted the fire department instead. Police remind residents that fire officials will never call anyone and demand credit card information over the phone. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO BLISSFIELD BLISSFIELD COUNCIL TO DISCUSS PARK AND REC PROGRAMS: The village of Blissfield is considering the future of its recreation programs. A discussion of programming and staffing, including the position of parks and recreation program coordinator, is scheduled for the next village council meeting, which will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12. Options under consideration include continuing the position on a part-time basis or eliminating it entirely, according to a statement from village administrator Danielle Gross. If the position were eliminated, the village would no longer administer parks and recreation programs but would continue to support and provide guidance to volunteers interested in leading programs. — LENAWEE VOICE
CLINTON CLINTON SEEKS VILLAGE TREASURER: The village of Clinton is seeking a treasurer to take the place of Beth Hine after her retirement. Applications may be sent to Leslie Owens, village clerk, at clerk@villageofclinton.org. — LENAWEE VOICE MADISON TWP. SOLAR PROJECT APPROVED: The Madison Township planning commission and the township board recently approved a conditional use permit for a 10-acre solar power project in the 4000 block of West Cadmus Road on land owned by the Shadewald family. Pivot Energy is a Colorado-based company that develops and manages community-scale solar projects, which are smaller than utility-scale projects. The company will establish a decommissioning bond to ensure that the land is restored to its previous condition when the panels reach the end of their useful life. — LENAWEE VOICE MORENCI GRANT FUNDING TO SUPPORT HOME REPAIRS: The city of Morenci has been awarded $1.18 million in grant funding through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to fund home repairs for eligible residents. The funding is intended to assist approximately 40 middle- to low-income households in making essential improvements to their homes. Eligible home improvements may include roof and structural repairs, heating and cooling system upgrades, siding and insulation installation, or window and door replacement. “This program will allow us to partner with residents in need to care for the places that mean the most to them,” Heather Sarnac, community and economic development director for the city of Morenci, said in a news release. — MORENCI ADVOCATE SAND CREEK SUPERINTENDENT TO RETIRE: Sand Creek Community Schools will be led by a new superintendent next fall, as Sharon Smith has announced she will be retiring at the end of the current school year. Smith has been with the district for 26 years. She was originally hired as an accountant and later became the district’s chief financial officer, then became superintendent in addition to the CFO role in 2021 following the retirement of Steve Laundra. The Michigan Association of School Boards has been tapped to assist in the search process for Sharon Smith a new superintendent. Applications are expected to be taken through Feb. 3, with first-round interviews during the week of Feb. 23 and second-round interviews the week of March 2. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO TECUMSEH APPOINTMENTS APPROVED: The Tecumseh City Council made several appointments at its Dec. 15 meeting. Derek Martin of Martin’s Home Center was appointed to the Downtown Development Authority board, replacing Jan Fox. David Berry and Carolyn Vertin were reappointed to the Election Commission. Anne Flora and Harold Ruhl were reappointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. Jeremy Finn was appointed to the Planning Commission to replace Ellen Spikberg. — LENAWEE VOICE CLASS ON RAIN GARDENING OFFERED: The Tecumseh District Library, in partnership with Huron-Clinton Metroparks, will present an introductory workshop on rain gardening on Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 6:30 p.m. The class will cover how rain gardens work, how to create and maintain them, and how they can help solve local water problems. — LENAWEE VOICE WOMAN KILLED IN CRASH AT M-50 AND M-52: Lenawee County sheriff’s deputies responded around 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 to a crash at the intersection of M-50 and M-52 in Tecumseh Township. A Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 20-year-old man from the Traverse City area went through a red light and struck a Toyota Prius driven by a 54-year-old woman from the Adrian area. The driver of the Prius was taken to Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, where she died from her injuries. — LENAWEE VOICE
THE LENAWEE VOICE
LOCAL NEWS | A7
JANUARY 2026
County to resume support for Lenawee Now Local Buzz Radio
ADRIAN — The Lenawee Now economic development organization will once again receive financial support from the county government. Lenawee County commissioners agreed in December to resume the annual $150,000 allocation that ended several years ago. The new contract was approved on a 7-2 vote, with Ralph Tillotson (R-Adrian Twp.) and David Stimpson (R-Tecumseh) opposed. Under the contract, the funds will be paid in quarterly installments, with ways and means committee chair Kevon Martis (R-Riga) saying that the two sides had reached agreement on the key points of the contract following nearly a year of talks and getting legal approval of the language. He said the one-year agreement resolves the points of contention and will lead to the appointment of one
commissioner as a non-voting member of the Lenawee Now board. Martis said this will result in a much closer collaboration between Lenawee Now and commissioners as the county monitors Lenawee Now’s performance. Commission chair Jim Van Doren (R-Tipton) said the renewed relationship is particularly important amid attempts in Lansing to either significantly cut funding to the Michigan Economic Development Corp. or get rid of it altogether. Van Doren said it is imperative to keep economic development at the forefront for Lenawee County. Lenawee Now will have to provide the commissioners with a copy of their annual fiscal audit, as well as quarterly activity reports measuring the number of jobs created or retained, private investment leveraged, and public funding secured. Lenawee Now will also make an annual presentation to the commissioners about their activities,
results, business environment, and related matters.
Agreement for sheriff’s office equipment and software OK’d Lenawee County Commissioners are now committed to allocating $400,000 annually for the next 10 years to pay for tasers, body cameras, car and interview cameras, and unlimited data storage for the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office after voting in December to approve a $4 million contract with technology company Axon. Sheriff’s Capt. Jacob Pifer told commissioners that although the price tag is high, no other company offers systems as robust as Axon. The vote was 6-3, with commissioners David Aungst (R-Rollin Twp.), Dustin Krasny (R-Onsted), and Jim Daly (D-Adrian) opposed. While there are ways the county could exit the contract before the 10 years are up, it would come with a financial penalty.
COURT NEWS SKELTON EXAMINATION SET FOR MAY: An eight-day preliminary examination has been set for John Skelton, the former Morenci resident who now faces murder charges in connection with the disappearance of his three sons 15 years ago. Judge Laura Schaedler has scheduled the examination to begin May 11. The charges were filed as his sentence for unlawful imprisonment was about to end, and he is now being held in the Lenawee County Jail in lieu of a $60 million bond. In March 2025, the boys were declared legally deceased. RETIRED DEPUTY ACCUSED OF BEING UNCOOPERATIVE IN WARNER CASE: Retired Lenawee County sheriff’s deputy Kevin Greca was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals in Toledo in December, following a complaint by prosecutors that he was being uncooperative in the murder case against Dale Warner and a related case against Warner’s son. Dale Warner is accused of killing his wife, Dee, in April 2021. His son, Jaron Warner, faced charges of being an accessory and tampering with evidence. The charges against Jaron Warner were dismissed when prosecutors said they were unable to locate a key witness, but prosecutors retained the option to refile the charges if the witness were located. Prosecutors said in court filings that the subpoena for Greca was the only one they had been unable to deliver in that case. Greca’s attorney, Ashley Hanson-Grimes, denied that he was dodging the subpoena and said the idea of him as a fugitive was “abhorrent.” Greca had been leading the investigation into Dee Warner’s disappearance before the case was turned over to Michigan State Police in August 2022.
PROCEEDINGS DELAYED IN SEXUAL ABUSE CASE AGAINST RETIRED PASTOR: Two weeks before trial was to begin for a retired Adrian pastor facing multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct, proceedings have been delayed, with a new trial date to be set later. Michael Goble, 76, the former pastor of Church of the Good Shepherd, faces charges of sexually abusing boys at his home and at the Maurice Spear Campus. He has been in jail in lieu of a $400,000 bond since his arrest in the summer of 2024. FORMER SCHOOL EMPLOYEE SENTENCED: A former school employee has been sentenced to one year in the Lenawee County Jail for sexually abusing a special education student on school property. The sentence for Burton Harlow, 41, of Deerfield was the result of a plea deal between the prosecution and defense. Chief assistant prosecutor Allison Arnold said the plea bargain was based largely on the victim’s wishes. Harlow’s attorney said that he was an Army veteran and a patriot, but Judge Anna Marie Anzalone said that a patriot protects people rather than victimizing them. She also said that an offense in a place where children are supposed to be safe harms not just the victim but the entire school community. PRETRIAL HEARING SET FOR MAN ACCUSED OF ENTICING TEEN: A Jan. 14 pretrial hearing has been set for Matthew Hood Jr., 25, of Toledo, who is accused of sexual offenses against an Adrian girl whom he appears to have met over social media. The alleged offenses date to 2019, but authorities were not able to locate him until recently. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO
IN BRIEF Department on Aging partners with Horizon Travel for upcoming trip ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Department on Aging is working with Horizon Travel in Adrian to organize a trip to Mackinac Island from May 6-9. The cost of the trip is $1,399 per person for double occupancy and $1,699 per person for single occupancy, and includes accommodations at the Grand Hotel, all meals including a five-course dinner every evening, nightly dancing with the Grand Hotel Orchestra, and a variety of activities around Mackinac Island. A nonrefundable deposit of $500 is due by Jan. 7, and final payment is due March 20. For more information or to register, go to Horizon Travel at 604 S. Main St., Adrian, or call 517-265-6666.
McGuire named president of Lenawee Christian Ministries ADRIAN — Lenawee Christian Ministries recently announced the appointment of Tricia (Merillat) McGuire as the group’s president. McGuire is the granddaughter of Orville and Ruth Merillat, who were instrumental in founding the ministry. Lenawee Christian Ministries operates Lenawee Christian School and The Centre, both located at the corner of U.S. 223 and Wolf Creek Highway in Adrian. McGuire will continue serving as a voting member of the board of directors and will work closely with executive director Kristy Taylor, according to a news release.
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LOCAL FOOD RESOURCES The following list of resources for people in need of food assistance was compiled from a mixture of information published by the Lenawee County MSU Extension and information sent to The Lenawee Voice. To submit additions, changes or corrections, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.
FOOD PANTRIES Adrian First Church of the Nazarene 50 Industrial Court, Adrian Every other Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon. Call 517-263-1579 for dates. Fishes and Loaves (First United Methodist Church and Neighbors of Hope) 1245 W. Maple Ave., Adrian Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to noon; call 517-759-4421 for appointments. Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Campus 415 Ormsby St., Adrian Wednesday and Friday, 1-3 p.m.; third Sunday of the month from 5-7 p.m.; limit one visit per month. 517-759-3233. Holy Family Parish, St. Mary Campus 305 Division St., Adrian Monday and Thursday, 1-3 p.m.; limit one visit per month. 517-266-0378. Salvation Army 217 W. Church St., Adrian. Monday and Thursday, 8:30-11:30 a.m.; call 517-265-2038 for appointment. Limit once per month. Lutheran Church of the Lakes Indoor Blessing Cupboard 8800 U.S. 223, Addison Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon; Sundays, 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. 517-547-4261.
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church/ Blissfield Ministerial Association 306 E. Jefferson St., Blissfield Call 517-486-1457 on Monday or Tuesday between 8 a.m. and noon to schedule pickup on Thursday between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. For area residents. Clinton United Methodist Church 10990 Tecumseh-Clinton Road, Clinton Second Thursday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon. For Clinton school district residents. 517-605-9303. Deerfield Light of Christ Parish 222 Carey St., Deerfield Second Wednesday of the month from 1-2 p.m.; for area residents. 517-447-3500, ext. 13. Hudson Ministerial Association 211 Mechanic St., Hudson Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., except for holidays. For area residents. 517-448-6411. Thornhill Baptist Church 4560 S. Meridian Road, Hudson Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are welcome. 517-448-7687.
City of Refuge Ministries Meal Assistance Program 109 E. Logan St., Tecumseh Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Walk-ins welcome; deliveries available. cityofrefugeministriesintl.com. Tecumseh Service Club Services provided as needed for area residents; email tecumsehserviceclub2020@gmail.com. Tecumseh United Methodist Church 605 Bishop Reed Drive, Tecumseh Second and fourth Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. 517-423-2523. Tipton Community Church/ God’s Helping Hands 9420 Tipton Hwy., Tipton Call 517-431-2460 for appointment.
FRESH FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS Salvation Army 217 W. Church St., Adrian First and third Tuesday from 8:30-10:30 a.m. 517-265-2038.
Manitou Road Baptist Church 175 Manitou Road, Manitou Beach Call 517-547-5516 for appointment.
St. Peter the Apostle Church/ Knights of Columbus 309 S. Lane St., Blissfield Second Friday of the month, 4 p.m. until gone. 517-270-2232.
St. Mary on the Lake Catholic Church 450 Manitou Road, Manitou Beach Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon. 517-547-7496.
Morenci Bible Fellowship Church 240 Salisbury St., Morenci First Thursday, 2-4 p.m. 517-458-2276.
Morenci Church of the Nazarene 751 N. Summit St., Morenci Tuesdays by appointment; available to area residents. 517-306-8947.
Springville United Methodist Church 10341 Springville Hwy., Onsted Fourth Thursday of each month, 3 p.m. until gone. 517-467-4471.
New Song Community Church 5211 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh Thursdays, 1-3 p.m.; limit once every two weeks. 517-423-3676.
Tecumseh Church of the Nazarene 1001 N. Union St., Tecumseh Second Tuesday of the month, 4 p.m. until gone. 517-423-4960.
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
Tecumseh Seventh-Day Adventist Church 6759 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh Third Friday in January, March, May, July, September and November; noon to 2 p.m. 517-423-2800.
HOT MEALS The Daily Bread 302 S. Tecumseh St., Adrian Meals served Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. dailybreadlenawee.org. Salvation Army 217 W. Church St., Adrian Served Monday and Wednesday, 4-5 p.m. Tecumseh Church of Christ/ God’s Bread Basket 312 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. 567-703-0551 or 517-265-3608. Tipton Community Church/ God’s Helping Hands 9240 Tipton Hwy., Tipton Meals served via drive-through on the second Saturday of each month 3:45-5 p.m., while supplies last.
BLESSING BOXES The organization Hope in Action (hopeinaction19@gmail.com) supplies the following blessing boxes in Adrian: n Corner of South Scott Street and College Avenue (white box). n Abundant Life Church, 1120 E. Maple Ave. (blue box). n First United Methodist Church, 1245 W. Maple Ave. (red box). n Reformed Baptist Church, 2667 Bent Oak Ave (red box).
THE LENAWEE VOICE
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JANUARY 2026
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.
Day set for Department of Agriculture launches Crops Jan. 9 in Adrian Good Food for Michigan project LANSING — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recently announced the Good Food for Michigan project, which will focus on keeping locally grown food in Michigan communities. “The Good Food for Michigan project will strengthen regional food systems by equipping community colleges, schools, hospitals and other institutions across the state with tools they need to access nutritious, locally grown and prepared foods,” Department of Agriculture director Tim Boring said in a news release. “By helping institutions purchase Michigan-grown foods, we can create new opportunities for farmers to sell locally, improve families’ access to nourishing foods and build healthier, more resilient economies and communities.” Good Food for Michigan is a product of Boring’s conversations with growers and community groups around the state who have expressed concerns about the strain federal policies are putting on food access and affordability, as well as with those who voiced a desire for more opportunities to feed their communities with local foods. The Center for Good Food Purchasing — a national leader in transforming how public institutions purchase food — is MDARD’s partner in the project. “Michigan has shown what’s possible when communities, institutions, and
producers move in the same direction,” said Alexa Delwiche, executive director at the Center for Good Food Purchasing. “This partnership lets us apply the center’s proven model and approach — clear standards, handson technical assistance, cross-sector stakeholder engagement and rigorous measurement and verification — to deepen relationships across the state, strengthen local supply chains and help more schools, hospitals and public agencies buy nourishing Michigangrown Good Food. Together, we’ll expand new market opportunities for growers, align public dollars with community values and build on Michigan’s role as a learning and innovation hub for Good Food Purchasing.” Among other actions, the Good Food for Michigan project will prioritize local food supplies by assisting partner community institutions with: n Assessing their food procurement practices. n Meeting good food purchasing targets. n Creating supplier/vendor diversification plans that include local and regional food sources. n Developing and implementing comprehensive institutional policies that reflect community needs and values as they relate to food. Increased consumption of locally grown foods can improve individual
and community health outcomes while supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental costs of food production and transportation. Additionally, the project will utilize a proven model that equips schools and other institutions with the tools and technical support they need to source and procure locally grown foods. The Good Food Purchasing Program model emphasizes: n Strengthening local and community-based economies. n Improving community health. n Supporting a valued workforce. n Promoting environmental sustainability. n Ensuring accountability, equity and transparency in food systems. The Good Food for Michigan project will complement other innovative MDARD programs focused on strengthening regional food systems across the state. In its first year, MDARD’s Farm to Family Program has awarded more than $730,000 to support food hubs and farm stops that give Michigan producers and consumers more opportunities to sell and buy locally grown foods. So far, work completed with support from grant funding has resulted in moving nearly 85,000 pounds of local produce and meat and serving nearly 1,400 Michigan families.
ADRIAN — The Lenawee Conservation District invites farmers, agribusinesses, conservation-minded individuals, and general public to its 29th Crops Day, which will take place on Friday, Jan. 9, at The Centre, 1800 U.S. 223, Adrian. The event begins with a continental breakfast at 8 a.m., and programming runs from 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It will be moderated by Mark Seamon of the Michigan Soybean Committee. Presentations will include: n 2025 Center for Excellence plot data (Blaine Baker, Bakerlads Farms). n Summary of the 2025 Michigan soybean on-farm research trials (Eric Anderson, MSU soybean educator). n Soil health and long-term benefits from cover crops and no-till practices (Christine Charles, Michigan State University). n Phosphorous removal from surface waters in the Western Lake Erie Basin (Mark Kieser, senior scientist and principal of Kieser & Associates). n High Oleic soybeans (Alycia Bales, Hanna Campbell and Teresa Crook, Michigan State University). n Nitrogen strategies, biologicals and pest management in 2025 (Kendall Lovejoy, Ohio State University Extension). n Using AI in your fields for optimum crop management (Aaron Duval, chief operations officer of AcuSpray). Registration is encouraged. To register or for more infomation, go to LenaweeConservationDistrict.org or call 517-263-7400, ext. 5.
LOCAL STUDENTS AT NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION
The Agronomy team from the LISD Tech Center afternoon FFA chapter competed at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis in October. The team achieved a Gold ranking, placing them in the top 10 in the nation. Pictured from left to right are Ella Mishka, Emileigh Johnston, Holly Mitchell, Carson Garrison and advisor Matt Hensley. Not pictured is alternate Ben Isaly. Mitchell and Garrison both received golds individually and earned a Crop Consultant Advisor certification. Mishka received a silver individually and Johnston received a bronze.
The Nursery and Landscape team earned a Silver ranking at the National FFA Convention. From left to right are alternate Paige Luck, Myra Parker, Rileigh Hoffman, Cera LaRatta, Lillian Helinski, and advisor Johanna Lentz. The teams that competed at the national convention qualified by winning their respective state competitions in April. The National FFA Convention is held annually, and over 70,000 FFA members from around the U.S. come together for leadership training, competitions, career exploration and a college fair. INFORMATION AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF CARSON GARRISON, PM FFA REPORTER
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
SPORTS Father-and-son coaches find themselves on opposite benches By Jeffrey R. Plum The Lenawee Voice
BRITTON — The moment Zach Zyla accepted the head coaching position for the Britton Deerfield girls varsity basketball program, his father, Mike Zyla, celebrated the hire. Mike Zyla, who coaches the Sand Creek girls varsity basketball team, knew what the Patriots were getting with his son’s hire. Zach Zyla has a strong basketball IQ, excels at X’s and O’s, and makes excellent in-game adjustments. “I’m excited for him and the opportunity he’s earned, and I wish him continued success,” Mike Zyla said. But first, there was a Tri-County Conference matchup on Dec. 11, Zach’s BD team hosted Mike’s Sand Creek squad, and the Sand Creek Aggies earned a hard-fought 29-22 win over the Patriots. A one-point lead turned into a 12-point lead late into the fourth quarter as Mike Zyla’s team applied full-court man-to-man pressure at the start of the second half en route to the win. “We’ve both had this game circled since he was hired at Britton Deerfield,” Mike Zyla said. “As a father, I’m proud of Zach and wish him nothing but success.” The feeling was mutual as Zach climbed the coaching ranks under his father’s watchful eye. From junior high to AAU squads, Zach learned the game from his father, and the game had special meaning for him as well. “I was very excited to get to coach against my dad in our first matchup,” said Zach Zyla, who played for his father at Sand Creek and helped coach at several levels.
Zach Zyla, left, and his father, Mike, coach the girls varsity basketball teams at Britton Deerfield and Sand Creek. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE
“Coaching was just natural for me — runs in the family,” Zach Zyla said. “I started coaching when I was like 16 years old for the Sand Creek Hoopsters.” Under his father’s tutelage, Zach strengthened his love of the game. “I have been blessed to have grown up with my dad coaching me from youth league, all the way up to AAU in high school,” Zach Zyla added. “Zach has wanted to coach since his high school days,” Mike Zyla said of his son, who served as a varsity assistant last year at Sand Creek. “He helped coach the Hoopsters while still in high school, and after graduating, he assisted me at multiple levels.”
The father and son also share a similar coaching style, which made for intriguing matchups in their first meeting on the hardwood. “Our coaching philosophies are very similar,” Mike Zyla said. “We both emphasize playing hard-nosed defense, building player relationships, and building a positive team culture.” Zach Zyla agreed with his father, but added that there are some differences between old-school and newschool coaching styles. “I think we have very similar coaching styles,” Zach Zyla said. “We both really focus on defense being the key to winning and being the hardest-working team on the floor. “I do think there is a slight difference between old school and new school of coaching, just because of different generations and the game adapting,” Zach Zyla added. Mike Zyla believes his son’s success as a head coach will soar at the high school level as he gains more experience working with the young Patriots’ squad. “One of his greatest strengths is building relationships with his players, which is a key part of his coaching style,” Mike Zyla said. “I just prepared my girls as I do for any other game, bring the effort and start fast, which the girls did, which I’m very proud of after our first game,” said Zach Zyla, who had a reputation for being a tough defender who gave maximum effort on the court. “Even to this day, facing each other or not, he’s still my biggest supporter and helper,” Zach Zyla said of his father. A return matchup will bring Britton Deerfield to Sand Creek on the Aggies’ Senior Night on Friday, Feb. 20.
County’s first female wrestler continues making sports history By Jeffrey R. Plum The Lenawee Voice
ADRIAN — As the first girls varsity wrestling coach at Adrian High School, Natasha Taylor has a knack for making history in Lenawee County. Taylor, a 2001 graduate of Adrian High School, became the first female wrestler in the county as a Natasha Taylor member of the boys varsity wrestling program under Coach Dennis Fox. “At that time, there wasn’t an official girls team, just a girls division,” said Taylor, who earned all-state honors twice and national honors once. Taylor placed second in 1999 at 103 pounds and fourth in 1998 at 109 in the
Michigan All-Star for Girls tournaments. She finished seventh nationally in 1999 at 103 pounds. The Michigan High School Athletic Association added girls varsity wrestling as a team sport for the 2021-2022 school year, and participation soared from 620 female student-athletes to more than 1,500 in late 2025, according to the MHSAA. “Looking back, I really wish there had been a girls wrestling team back then,” she said. One would think a girl would become interested in wrestling because her older brothers competed on the wrestling mats. But it was her father, Refugio Rodriguez Jr., who piqued her interest at a young age, and soon, there was no stopping her. “He’s the one who got me into wrestling,” Taylor said of her father, who graduated from AHS in 1982 and has his picture on the wall in the wrestling room for winning a Southeastern
Conference title. “When I was younger, he would wrestle with me at home, and I remember thinking, ‘I want to do this.’ ” The wrestling competition allowed Taylor to showcase her abilities on the mat and bond with her father. “I needed an outlet, loved the challenge, and quickly fell in love with the sport,” said Taylor, who began her wrestling career at Springbrook Middle School with coaches Jim Waters and Jim Welsh. Taylor encountered some roadblocks at Springbrook. But she persevered with the support of not just her wrestler father, but also her mother and stepfather, Monica Gallardo Cosme and Gerald Cosme. “They were incredibly supportive of my interest in wrestling,” Taylor said of her parents. “In fact, their support is a big reason I was able to stick with the sport.” The issue of Taylor remaining on the boys junior high team was a sticking point. But a conversation between her father and the school administration resolved it.
“He came in personally to speak with them and made sure I was given the opportunity,” she added. “They believed in me, encouraged me, and never let obstacles stand in the way of me pursuing something I loved.” Now, Taylor is giving back to her high school in a way that signifies a full-circle moment. A chance to foster a love of the sport she values with young girls — and to continue a family tradition as well. “I always said that if I ever had a son, he would wrestle, and sure enough, I did,” she said. “My son started wrestling at age 4 and has been doing great ever since.” Her son, sophomore Lee Nieto Jr., wrestles at 132 pounds as a member of the Adrian program. “We’ve always wrestled together, and when I take him to tournaments outside of school, he actually lets me coach him, although now he’s getting so good that he’s starting to outgrow me,” Taylor said with a laugh.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
SPORTS | A11
JANUARY 2026
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS CALENDAR
Girls Basketball Addison at Homer, following JV game. Lenawee Christian at Sand Creek, 7 p.m. Morenci at Pittsford, 7 p.m.
Bowling Onsted at Blissfield (Rich Lanes), 4 p.m. Hudson at Clinton (Ten Pin Alley), 4 p.m.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 2 Wrestling
Gymnastics
Clinton and Hudson girls at Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central (Kestrel Invitational), 4 p.m.
Wrestling
Tecumseh at Saline, 6 p.m. Adrian boys at Pinckney, 5:30 p.m. Adrian coed at Ypsi Community, 5:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 3 Boys Basketball
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16
Blissfield at Whiteford, 7 p.m.
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Addison at home vs. Homer, 5:30 p.m. Adrian at Battle Creek Pennfield, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Morenci, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Summerfield, 5:30 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Blissfield at Jonesville, noon. Lenawee Christian at Concord, 1 p.m. Madison at Columbia Central, 1:30 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Stockbridge, 4:30 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Blissfield, Madison and Morenci at Madison, 10 a.m.
Girls Basketball Clinton at Dundee, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at home vs. Pansophia, 6 p.m. Hudson at Blissfield, 7 p.m. Madison at Hillsdale, 7 p.m. Onsted at Ida, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Wrestling Addison and Adrian at Adrian Duals Tournament, 5:30 p.m. Blissfield at Hillsdale, 9 a.m. Clinton coed at Algonac, 9 a.m. Hudson and Onsted at Hanover-Horton, 9 a.m. Hudson at Detroit Catholic Central, 10 a.m. Sand Creek at Southgate Anderson, 8 a.m.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 Ice Hockey Lenawee United at East Kentwood, 12:30 p.m.
MONDAY, JANUARY 5 Boys Basketball Clinton at home vs. Grass Lake, 7 p.m. Hudson at Addison, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Arbor Prep, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball Britton Deerfield at home vs. Pittsford, 6 p.m. Sand Creek at Will Carleton Academy, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling Addison at home (Hudson Lanes) vs. Homer, 3:30 p.m. Hudson at Madison, 4 p.m. Onsted at Dundee, 4 p.m.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 6 Boys Basketball Adrian at home vs. Williamston, 6 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Morenci at home vs. Whiteford, 5:30 p.m. Sand Creek at Britton Deerfield, 5:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball Addison at home vs. Manchester, 6 p.m. Adrian at home vs. Hillsdale Academy, 7 p.m. Blissfield at Tecumseh, 5:30 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Whiteford, 5:30 p.m. Madison at home vs. Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard, 7 p.m. Morenci at St. Mary Catholic Central, 7 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Ann Arbor Greenhills, 6:30 p.m. Sand Creek at home vs. Napoleon (5:30 p.m.) and Coldwater Pansophia Academy (7 p.m.)
Wrestling Blissfield at home vs. Evergreen, 6 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7 Boys Basketball Addison at Michigan Center, 5:30 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Pittsford, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball
Gymnastics Tecumseh at Vassar, 6 p.m.
Sand Creek’s Emma Burns (14) and Elise Wilkinson (23) guard Britton Deerfield’s Leah Thornton during the Dec. 11 game at Britton. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 Girls Basketball Blissfield at Ida, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Whiteford, 5:30 p.m. Clinton at Hudson, 7 p.m. Madison at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m. Morenci at Summerfield, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at Hillsdale, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at home vs. Erie Mason, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield at Hudson (Hudson Lanes), 4 p.m. Madison at Onsted, 4 p.m.
Gymnastics Tecumseh at Jackson, 6 p.m.
Wrestling Adrian at Bedford, 5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Boys Basketball Addison at home vs. Hanover Horton, 5:30 p.m. Adrian at Tecumseh, 7 p.m. Blissfield at Ida, 7 p.m. Hudson at Clinton, 7 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Whiteford, 7 p.m. Madison at Dundee, 7 p.m. Morenci at Britton Deerfield, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball Tecumseh at Adrian, 7 p.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at home (Arrington Ice Arena) vs. Howell, 6 p.m.
Wrestling Adrian boys at home, 5:30 p.m. Adrian girls at Bedford, 5:30 p.m. Hudson at Fowlerville Girls Invite, 5 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 Boys Basketball Morenci at home vs. Fayette, 1 p.m.
Addison at home vs. Hanover Horton, 6 p.m. Adrian at home vs. Ann Arbor Greenhills, 6:30 p.m. Britton Deerfield at home vs. Camden-Frontier, 6 p.m. Hudson at home vs. Pittsford, 5:30 p.m. Lenawee Christian at home vs. Colon, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball
Bowling
Competitive Cheer
Addison at Hanover Horton (Jax 60), 3:30 p.m. Clinton at Blissfield (Rich Lanes), 4 p.m.
Competitive Cheer
Lenawee Christian at home vs. Plymouth Christian, 6 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield, Britton Deerfield, Hudson, Onsted, Sand Creek at Madison (Lenawee Rec), 9 a.m. Addison, Blissfield, Clinton, Madison and Morenci at Addison Invitational, 10 a.m. Onsted at Leslie, 10 a.m.
Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison, Onsted at Hillsdale, 6 p.m.
Ice Hockey
Wrestling
Wrestling
Addison at Vandercook Lake, 5:30 p.m. Clinton girls at home, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at Bath, 5:30 p.m.
Lenawee United at Allen Park, 7:15 p.m. Addison and Clinton at Clinton Invite, 9 a.m. Hudson at Clarkston, 9 a.m. Madison and Sand Creek at Parma Western, 9 a.m.
MONDAY, JANUARY 12 Boys Basketball
Wrestling Clinton girls at Beverly Hills Groves, 5 p.m. Hudson, Madison and Sand Creek at Hudson Super 16 Tourney, 5 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17
Addison at Napoleon, 5:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Addison at Fayette, 6 p.m.
Addison at Napoleon, 4 p.m. Clinton at Michigan Center, 7 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Summerfield, 7 p.m.
Competitive Cheer
Bowling
Addison, Blissfield, Clinton and Morenci at Jonesville Invitational, 10 a.m. Hudson at Chelsea, 10 a.m.
Addison at home (Hudson Lanes) vs. Hanover Horton, 3:30 p.m. Hudson at Dundee, 4 p.m. Madison at home vs. Hillsdale, 4 p.m. Sand Creek at Summerfield, 4 p.m.
Gymnastics
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13
Wrestling
Boys Basketball Adrian at Pinckney, 7 p.m. Clinton at Hillsdale, 7 p.m. Hudson at Ida, 5:30 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Summerfield, 7 p.m. Madison at Blissfield, 7 p.m. Morenci at Erie Mason, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Whiteford, 5:30 p.m. Tecumseh at Chelsea, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball
Tecumseh at Vassar, 10 a.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at Chelsea, 4 p.m. Addison at Quincy, 9 a.m. Adrian coed at Traverse City Central, 9 a.m. Hudson Super 16 Tourney, 9 a.m. Clinton, Onsted at Williamston, 9 a.m. Sand Creek at Hudson, 9 a.m.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 Bowling Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Clinton (Ten Pin Alley), 5 p.m.
Competitive Cheer
Addison at Michigan Center, following JV game. Blissfield at Madison, 7 p.m. Clinton at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m. Hudson at home vs. Ida, 5:30 p.m. Morenci at home vs. Erie Mason, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at Dundee, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at home vs. Whiteford, 5:30 p.m. Tecumseh at Chelsea, 5:30 p.m.
Morenci at Jonesville, 10 a.m.
Bowling Addison at Jonesville (L&J Lanes), 3:30 p.m. Clinton at Ida, 4 p.m.
Blissfield at home vs. Bedford, 7 p.m. Onsted at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. West Clermont, 4:30 p.m.
Competitive Cheer
Bowling
Addison at Columbia Central, 6 p.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at New Boston, 7:40 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14 Boys Basketball Addison at home vs. Leslie, 5:30 p.m. Sand Creek at home vs. Pansophia, 6 p.m.
Wrestling Addison at East Jackson, 5:30 p.m. Blissfield at Toledo Central Catholic, 6 p.m. Clinton at Onsted, 6 p.m. Sand Creek at Onsted, 5 p.m.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 Boys Basketball Blissfield at Hudson, 7 p.m. Clinton at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m. Madison at home vs. Hillsdale, 7 p.m. Onsted at Ida, 7 p.m.
MONDAY, JANUARY 19 Boys Basketball Clinton at home vs. Monroe, 7 p.m. Hudson at home vs. Athens, 4:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball
Addison at home (Hudson Lanes) vs. Grass Lake, 3:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 Boys Basketball Addison at Grass Lake, 5:30 p.m. Adrian at Onsted, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Summerfield, 5:30 p.m. Madison at Tecumseh, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball Adrian at Madison, 7 p.m. Blissfield at home vs. Summerfield, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Addison, 6 p.m. Clinton at Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Morenci at Columbia Central, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Hudson, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield at Hillsdale (Hillsdale Lanes), 4 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Addison at Homer (Cascades Jamboree), 6 p.m.
A12 | SPORTS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21 Boys Basketball Blissfield at Reading, 7 p.m. Morenci at Hudson, 5:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball Addison at Leslie, following JV game.
Bowling Sand Creek at Britton Deerfield, 4 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Madison, 6 p.m.
Gymnastics Adrian at Saline, 6 p.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at Woodhaven-Brownstown, 7:20 p.m.
Wrestling Addison at home vs. Hanover Horton, Michigan Center and Napoleon, 5:30 p.m. Clinton at Parma Western, 6 p.m.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 Boys Basketball Addison at Vandercook Lake, 5:30 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Sand Creek, 5:30 p.m. Lenawee Christian at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Madison at Hudson, 6:30 p.m. Morenci at Whiteford, 5:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball Madison at Hudson, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield at home (Rich Lanes) vs. Dundee, 4 p.m. Clinton at Madison (Lenawee Rec), 4 p.m. Hudson at home, 4 p.m. Onsted at home vs. Ida, 4 p.m.
Swimming Tecumseh boys at Chelsea, 6 p.m.
Wrestling Adrian coed at Tecumseh coed, 5:30 p.m. Madison boys at Sand Creek, 6 p.m. Tecumseh boys at Ypsi Lincoln, 5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Boys Basketball Adrian at home vs. Chelsea, 7 p.m. Blissfield at Onsted, 7 p.m. Clinton at Ida, 7 p.m. Hudson at Madison, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Ypsi Lincoln, 7 p.m.
JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE Girls Basketball Addison at home vs. Vandercook Lake, 6 p.m. Adrian at home vs. Chelsea, 5:30 p.m. Blissfield at Onsted, 5:30 p.m. Britton Deerfield at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Hudson at Madison, 5:30 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Morenci, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Summerfield, 5:30 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Ypsilanti Lincoln, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling BD and Clinton at Sand Creek, 4 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Addison, Blissfield, Clinton and Hudson at Columbia Central Invite, 6 p.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at Chelsea Showcase.
Wrestling Clinton at Lapeer, 5 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Boys Basketball Lenawee Christian at home vs. Nouvel Catholic Central, 3 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield, Clinton, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Hudson, 9 a.m.
Competitive Cheer Blissfield, Hudson, Madison and Onsted at Michigan Center. Clinton at Napoleon, 10 a.m. Tecumseh at home, 10 a.m.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27 Boys Basketball Addison at home vs. East Jackson, 5:30 p.m. Blissfield at home vs. Dundee, 7 p.m. Clinton at Madison, 7 p.m. Onsted at Hudson, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Morenci, 5:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball Addison at Reading, 6:30 p.m. Adrian at home vs. Erie Mason, 7 p.m. Blissfield at Dundee, 7 p.m. Britton Deerfield at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m. Hudson at Onsted, 7 p.m. Madison at Clinton, 7 p.m. Morenci at Sand Creek, 5:30 p.m.
Bowling Blissfield at Sand Creek (Lenawee Rec), 4 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Addison at Leslie, 6 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 Boys Basketball Adrian at Ypsi Community, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Jackson, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball
Addison at Holt, 9 a.m. Adrian boys at Saline, 9 a.m. Clinton girls at home, 9 a.m. Sand Creek at Grass Lake, 8 a.m.
Wrestling
Bowling Addison at home (Hudson Lanes) vs. Manchester, 3:30 p.m. Clinton at home (Ten Pin Alley) vs. Ida, 4 p.m.
Wrestling Adrian at home vs. Chelsea and Jackson, 5:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 Boys Basketball Adrian at home vs. Ypsi Lincoln, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Ypsi Community, 7 p.m.
Girls Basketball Addison at Columbia Central, 6 p.m. Clinton at Blissfield, 7 p.m. Hudson at home vs. Hillsdale, 5:30 p.m. Onsted at Madison, 7 p.m. Sand Creek at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Ypsi Community, 5:30 p.m.
Competitive Cheer Clinton at home, 5:30 p.m.
Boys Basketball
Ice Hockey
Lenawee Christian at Britton Deerfield, 7 p.m.
Blissfield at home vs. Dundee, 4 p.m. Clinton at Hudson, 4 p.m. Madison vs. Sand Creek (Lenawee Rec), 3:30 p.m.
Bowling
Wrestling
Boys Basketball
Bowling
Wrestling
Lenawee United at Chelsea Showcase, TBA
MONDAY, JANUARY 26
Britton Deerfield at Summerfield, 5:30 p.m. Hudson at home vs. Coldwater Pansophia Academy, 5:30 p.m.
Addison at home vs. Grass Lake, 6 p.m. Adrian at home vs. Ypsi Community, 7 p.m. Hudson at Jonesville, 5:30 p.m. Morenci at Lenawee Christian, 7 p.m. Tecumseh at home vs. Jackson, 5:30 p.m. Hudson at Ida, 4 p.m. Onsted at Hillsdale, 4 p.m. Sand Creek at BD (Ten Pin Alley), 4 p.m.
Ice Hockey
Girls Basketball
Lenawee United at Jackson United, 5:30 p.m. Addison at Napoleon, 5:30 p.m. Madison and Onsted at Ida.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29 Boys Basketball Addison at Columbia Central, 5:30 p.m. Blissfield at Clinton, 7 p.m. BD at home vs. Ann Arbor Christian, 5:30 p.m. Hudson at Hillsdale, 5:30 p.m. Lenawee Christian at Summerfield, 7 p.m. Madison at Onsted, 7 p.m. Morenci at home vs. Erie Mason, 5:30 p.m.
Lenawee County Championships at Adrian College.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 Britton Deerfield at home vs. Waldron, 3 p.m. LCS at home vs. Oakland Christian, 7 p.m. Madison at home vs. Whiteford, 1:30 p.m.
Girls Basketball Morenci at home vs. Evergreen, 11 a.m.
Bowling Clinton, Hudson, Madison, Onsted and Sand Creek at Blissfield (Rich Lanes), 9 a.m.
Competitive Cheer Hudson at Bedford, 10 a.m.
Ice Hockey Lenawee United at Dexter, 7 p.m. This list was compiled using the most recent schedules from the school districts and MHSAA as of our press deadline. We recommend verifying information before making plans.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
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ENERO 2026
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.
Charla aborda ley migratoria y derechos civiles Articulo original por Erik Gable Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — El estado actual de la inmigración en los Estados Unidos fue el tema de una charla el 10 de diciembre a cargo de la hermana Attracta Kelly, OP. Kelly es Abogada de Inmigración y Directora Emérita de la Oficina de Asistencia de Inmigración de las Hermanas Dominicas de Adrian. Comenzó con una descripción de los diferentes términos utilizados en la ley de inmigración: n Un inmigrante es una persona que migra a otro país para vivir permanentemente. n Un no inmigrante es una persona que ha sido admitida en los Estados Unidos por un período y propósito específico y temporal, como por ejemplo para turismo, trabajo temporal o estudio. n Un refugiado es una persona que vive fuera de su país de nacionalidad y es reconocido como alguien que no puede o no quiere regresar a ese país debido a persecución pasada o a un temor fundado de persecución futura. Kelly señaló que, antes de que cualquier refugiado llegue a Estados Unidos, ya ha sido evaluado por la Agencia de
La hermana Attracta Kelly, OP, habla durante una charla reciente sobre la ley de inmigración en el Centro Weber en Adrian. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE Refugiados de las Naciones Unidas. n Un solicitante de asilo es una persona que ha huido de su país de origen y no puede o no quiere regresar a ese país debido a una persecución pasada o a un temor fundado a sufrir persecución en el futuro, pero esa afirmación aún no ha sido probada ni reconocida.
n Un titular de una tarjeta verde, o residente permanente legal, es una persona a la que se le ha otorgado autorización para vivir y trabajar en Estados Unidos de forma permanente. Esta persona normalmente es elegible para solicitar la ciudadanía después de tres o cinco años, según las circunstancias.
n Una persona indocumentada es alguien que ha migrado al país violando las leyes de inmigración del país y sin el derecho legal de estar o permanecer en los Estados Unidos. También habló sobre las maneras de obtener un estatus legal. Una de ellas es el método basado en la familia, mediante el cual un ciudadano estadounidense o una persona con estatus legal puede solicitar que un familiar se reúna con él. Sin embargo, este proceso puede ser extremadamente largo, dependiendo tanto del parentesco con la persona como del país de origen. Las personas que vienen de México tienen una espera especialmente larga, que ahora se acerca a los 25 años para un residente permanente legal que solicita una visa para un hermano. Otros métodos incluyen solicitar asilo, lo cual se ha vuelto mucho más difícil durante la administración Trump. Las personas también pueden obtener un estatus legal si han sido víctimas de ciertos delitos, pero Kelly señaló que este proceso es difícil porque las víctimas deben estar dispuestas a denunciar el delito a la policía y testificar ante el tribunal.
INMIGRACIÓN continúa en la página A15
Celebración de Martin Luther King programada para el 19 de enero Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — La celebración comunitaria anual del Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. se llevará a cabo el lunes 19 de enero a la 1 p.m. en el Centro Tobias en Adrian College.
El Reverendo Robert Benard, fundador de Ministerios del Templo de Cristo Internacional (Christ Temple Ministries International), recibirá un premio a la trayectoria. Delma Bosquez-Munoz será honrada por su servicio comunitario, el cual
incluye ayudar a los trabajadores agrícolas migrantes y por trabajar con mujeres en el Refugio de violencia doméstica Catherine Cobb. Se entregarán premios estudiantiles a Rolen Maclin de Adrian College, Kimberly Delgado de Siena Heights
University y Lila Mouton-Howard de Jackson College. Los boletos cuestan $50 por persona o $350 por una mesa para ocho. Para más información, contacte a Andre’a Benard al 517-673-1218 o a Pamela Hall al 517920-2706.
El reemplazo de la piscina Bohn no será parte de la propuesta del distrito escolar Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares ADRIAN — El Distrito Escolar de Adrian ha decidió no agregar una piscina pública al aire libre a la propuesta para construir una instalación recreativa comunitaria. El 17 de diciembre, la junta escolar aprobó una propuesta electoral pidiendo a los votantes que financien la construcción de un nuevo centro
CALENDARIO DEL CENTRO EBEID PARA ENERO ADRIAN — Los siguientes programas educativos y reuniones comunitarias se llevarán a cabo en enero 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 (ofrecida por la YMCA) — los lunes, 5,12,19 y 26 de enero, 4 p.m. Esta clase gratuita 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
de recreación comunitario junto a la escuela Preparatoria de Adrian. La propuesta estará en la boleta electoral del 5 de mayo. Se propone la construcción de un centro recreativo de 80,000 pies cuadrados (7,432.24 metros cuadrados) que incluiría un campo de césped artificial de 60 yardas (54,864 metros cuadrados), una pista de atletismo, un
gimnasio, jaulas de bateo y tres canchas multiusos que podrían usarse para baloncesto, voleibol, pickleball o tenis. El centro de recreación estaría abierto a la comunidad cuando no esté en uso por los estudiantes. El costo estimado es de $27.5 millones. El distrito escolar solicita a los votantes la aprobación de un impuesto predial de 0.65 centavos/milla, lo que equivaldría
a $65 anuales para el propietario de una vivienda valorada en $200,000. Cuando la Comisión de la Ciudad de Adrian decidió dejar de invertir en la reparación de la piscina Bohn, que tiene más de 50 años, el distrito escolar consideró añadir una piscina pública a su propuesta. Tras dos foros públicos y una encuesta telefónica, el distrito decidió no continuar con la idea.
para mejorar la salud articular, la fuerza, la flexibilidad y el control. Perfecto para todas las edades y habilidades. Especialidad de Yoga para Personas Mayores (por YMCA) — los martes, 6,13, 20 y 27 de enero, 4 p.m. Esta serie gratuita de siete semanas apropiada para todos los niveles de habilidad está de vuelta. Experimenta la risa, las manos y los pies, la ansiedad, la cara y el cuello, el yoga restaurativo y el yoga de pared, por nombrar solo algunos. Pop-up del Banco de Pañales (Lenawee Great Start Collaborative) — el jueves, 8 de enero, 4:30-6 p.m. ¿Necesitas pañales? Pásate a recoger pañales para una semana. Este mes también colaboraremos con WIC, que estará presente con orientación sobre la inscripción y otros recursos útiles. Para familias con niños de 0 a 12 años en el condado de Lenawee. Presupuestación en el Año Nuevo (por Community Action Agency) — el jueves, 8 de enero, 5:30-7 p.m. Esta excelente clase forma parte de la Serie de Empoderamiento Financiero y se
centrará en un presupuesto personal y hábitos de gasto para el nuevo año, incluyendo cómo establecer prioridades, determinar tus necesidades frente a tus deseos, fijar objetivos y saber cómo Pagarte a ti primero. Reunión de la Coalición Comunitaria (Coalición de East Adrian) — el lunes, 12 de enero, 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. Bingo de la Presión Arterial (posible gracias a la Coalición de East Adrian) — el lunes, 12 de enero, 5:30-7 p.m. De vuelta por demanda popular está el Bingo gratis con un giro. Los participantes tendrán la oportunidad de tomarse la tensión arterial y ganar una pulsera tipo fit-bit, un tensiómetro, otros premios y aprender datos importantes relacionados con la salud de la tensión, todo ello mientras se divierten con amigos y vecinos. Exploración de Carreras de Realidad Virtual (Michigan Works) — el miercoles,
21 de enero, 3:30-5 p.m. Venga a explorar más de 20 simulaciones de carreras prácticas con los auriculares Transfer VR, que ofrecen experiencias inmersivas en campos como la aviación, la atención médica, la ingeniería, la construcción y otros oficios para ayudarlo a descubrir su futura profesión. Adultos y niños mayores de 12 años son bienvenidos. Comprender el Crédito (por Community Action Agency) — el jueves, 22 de enero, 5:30-7 p.m. ¿Alguna vez has tenido dificultades para pagar tus facturas, salir de deudas o no sabes cómo mejorar tu puntuación crediticia? Ven y aprende cómo establecer o reparar tu crédito y lograr una mayor estabilidad financiera y autosuficiencia. Se cubren aspectos importantes de la Ley de Informe Justo de Crédito. Padres de Lenawee (facilitado por De’Angelo Boone) — el martes, 27 de enero, 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.
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
PERSPECTIVES
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Whitmer’s data center enthusiasm is perplexing For most of her tenure as Michigan’s chief executive, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has earned her reputation the old fashioned way: by delivering results that matter to the people she represents. GOP propaganda to the contrary, she kept Michigan on an even keel during a global pandemic, as the first Trump administration seemingly worked overtime to tip the boat over. She invested in longneglected infrastructure while expanding workers’ rights, strengthening reproductive freedoms, and pushing forward common sense gun safety reforms that had been ignored by prior governors. And even in the face of a plot to kidnap and murder her, Whitmer stood resolute against the rising tide of right-wing extremism. But a governor who stood firmly for the rights of citizens over those of vested interests is now leaning in a strange direction. Her sweeping embrace of massive data center projects has left many Michiganders, including this one, confused. Especially as it is so seemingly in line with the priorities of President Donald Trump, whose July executive order demanded the pursuit of “bold, large-scale industrial plans to vault the United States further into the lead on critical manufacturing processes and technologies that are essential to national security, economic prosperity, and scientific leadership.” Now compare that to the comments Whitmer offered to the Michigan Public Service Commission this week in support
JON KING
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Kudos for new Palmyra Township park Right thing, right reason, right way! Bravo good and faithful servants! Special thanks for the selfless vision of Keith Knierim, in honor of his parents and the Palmyra Township Board in service to their community. Great job! —Philip Schaedler, Tecumseh
Realtors offer thanks for food drive support On behalf of the Lenawee County Association of Realtors, I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community for their incredible support of this year’s food drive. Your generosity has made a tremendous impact on families right here in our local community, we are truly grateful for your partnership.
of the massive data center proposed in Saline Township, in which she urged an expedited approval. “Right now, time is of the essence,” Whitmer stated. “This is a matter of national security and economic competitiveness, and if we do not act, it will cost us thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment in our economy.” And while she has insisted that “Michigan’s environmental protections remained non-negotiable” in the vetting process, that is a conclusion far more in line with the utilities and tech companies than with environmental advocates. The governor who has demanded accountability from corporate interests like Enbridge and its Line 5 pipeline through the Straits of Mackinac is now actively courting companies that demand immense public resources, with long-term implications for the air we breathe and the water we drink, in exchange for limited economic return. It’s perplexing — and it’s hard not to wonder what changed.
The sudden enthusiasm for data centers is especially surprising given the industry’s profile: massive energy consumption, minimal permanent job creation, substantial taxpayer subsidies, and heavy strain on local infrastructure. Yet Michigan is now extending public money to data center operators — many of them among the most powerful and profitable companies in the world — as if they were fragile startups in need of nurturing. While Whitmer has leaned enthusiastically into promoting data centers as a symbol of Michigan’s hightech future, Attorney General Dana Nessel, a fellow Democrat, has struck a far more cautious tone, underscoring the risks that come with rushing such projects forward. Whitmer, like Trump, has heralded proposed developments as transformative investments, framing the industry as a competitive necessity in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Nessel, by contrast, has repeatedly
This event is a powerful reminder of what can happen when local Realtors and local community partners come together with a shared goal. Our sponsors stepped up without hesitation, demonstrating the true spirit of giving that defines Lenawee County. Thank you to Blue Pointe Title Agency, County National Bank, Foundation Realty, Lenco Credit Union, The Mortgage Team, Old National Bank, and TLC Community Credit Union. Because of you, we were able to collect a trailer full of non perishable food (about 1,955 pounds) and financial support for those who need it most — again, right here in our local community. As local Realtors, we believe in serving our neighbors not only in real estate transactions but in everyday life. Our mission of supporting our neighbors beyond the closing table brings together Realtors from our local brokerages, and together, we can do great things.
Thank you, school boards
—Danielle Stepp, LCAR
As we begin the new year, the superintendents of the 12 public schools in Lenawee County wish to recognize and honor the dedicated members of our local Boards of Education in celebration of School Board Recognition Month. School board members serve as tireless advocates for students, staff, and families. They volunteer countless hours to ensure that our schools remain safe, welcoming, and focused on providing high-quality education. Their responsibilities are significant — setting policy, overseeing budgets, hiring and evaluating superintendents, and helping to shape the vision for each district’s future. They do this work not for recognition, but because they believe deeply in the value of public education and the success of every child. This month, we extend our sincere gratitude to these community leaders for their commitment, leadership, and
pressed for rigorous oversight. Where Whitmer emphasizes opportunity and momentum, Nessel stresses transparency, accountability, and the need to safeguard public resources. If she continues down this path, Whitmer risks transforming a strong, people-first narrative into a muddled story of corporate appeasement and economic strategy on autopilot. If she does have political ambitions beyond the end of her governorship, which seems to be a source of back-andforth speculation, this is a puzzling path to take toward wooing Democratic voters exhausted by industry-driven agendas that seek to paper over poisoned water and polluted air as necessary progress. And that’s what makes this moment so baffling: she doesn’t need to do any of this. Not for her legacy, not for Michigan, and not for the future she’s already spent years shaping. Jon King is editor-in-chief of the nonprofit newsroom Michigan Advance (michiganadvance.com).
unwavering support of our schools. Their service strengthens our districts and helps ensure that Lenawee County remains a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive. We encourage community members to join us in thanking their local school board members for the vital work they do all year long. —Scott Salow (Addison), Nate Parker (Adrian), Scott Riley (Blissfield), Stacy Johnson (Britton Deerfield), Kevin Beazley (Clinton), Michael Osborne (Hudson), Mark Haag (LISD), Nick Steinmetz (Madison), Jennifer Ellis (Morenci), Jonathan Royce (Onsted), Sharon Smith (Sand Creek), and Matt Hilton (Tecumseh) Lenawee County superintendents
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Inmigración de paginá A13 Una persona que está esperando que haya una visa disponible no tiene ningún estatus legal, dijo. Casi todos los métodos para ingresar a Estados Unidos o buscar estatus legal se han vuelto mucho más difíciles, dijo Kelly. A partir del 2 de diciembre, afirmó, los funcionarios de inmigración han recibido instrucciones de suspender todas las solicitudes de asilo, independientemente de su procedencia. Además, la administración Trump ha anunciado que revisará el estatus de unas 223.000 personas que recibieron asilo durante la administración Biden. La administración también ordenó detener el procesamiento de las solicitudes de residencia permanente para los refugiados que ingresaron durante ese período. El estatus de protección temporal, el que permite a las personas permanecer temporalmente en Estados Unidos debido a circunstancias como guerras o desastres que les impiden regresar a casa de forma segura, ha sido cancelado para las personas de Afganistán, Camerún, Etiopía, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Sudán del Sur y Venezuela. Está previsto que el estatus de protección temporal finalice pronto para las personas de Haití, Yemen, Somalia, El Salvador, Sudán y Ucrania. Los intentos de cancelar el estatus para las personas de Birmania y Siria se han visto temporalmente suspendidos por una orden judicial. La administración también eliminó un programa humanitario que brindaba a quienes huían de la inestabilidad en Cuba, Haití, Nicaragua y Venezuela la oportunidad de ingresar legalmente a Estados Unidos, siempre que contaran con un apoyo radicando en el país y pasaran una verificación de seguridad. Cualquier persona que haya ingresado bajo este programa debe abandonar el país. El IRS está apoyando los esfuerzos de deportación, aunque Kelly afirmó que sus datos suelen ser confidenciales. Señaló que esto es posible porque personas indocumentadas pagaron aproximadamente $90 mil millones en impuestos en 2023, de los cuales aproximadamente $56 mil millones fueron impuestos federales. Se ha ordenado a los agentes que arresten al menos a 3,000 personas por día, y se ha dicho a los jueces de inmigración (quienes, a diferencia de los jueces de la mayoría de los tribunales, trabajan para el poder ejecutivo) que ayuden a acelerar las deportaciones. Kelly también señaló que arrestan a personas cuando se presentan a audiencias o registros con ICE, que es lo que se supone que deben hacer. Esto crea un ambiente de miedo, dijo. Además, existía una lista de lugares donde los agentes no realizaban arrestos migratorios, como escuelas, hospitales, lugares de culto, parques infantiles, albergues para desastres o ceremonias como bodas y funerales. Esta política se derogó el día de la ceremonia de inauguración de Trump. La Corte Suprema también ha dictaminado que una persona puede ser detenida por su raza o etnia, su presencia en un lugar determinado, el tipo de trabajo que realiza o por hablar con un acento particular. Kelly afirmó que esto ha provocado que muchos ciudadanos estadounidenses, especialmente hombres latinos, sean arrestados por agentes que se niegan a revisar su comprobante de ciudadanía.
Kelly dijo que hay informes creíbles de ciudadanos estadounidenses que fueron tratados brutalmente por agentes federales, incluidas al menos tres que estaban embarazadas cuando fueron detenidas. Sin embargo, dijo, la gente puede hacer cosas para proteger a sus vecinos. La hermana Mary Kay Homan, OP, habló sobre lo que los agentes federales han estado haciendo en Evanston, Illinois, y cómo han respondido los residentes. Homan comentó que visitó recientemente Evanston, donde los agentes se han vuelto cada vez más agresivos. En un incidente, entraron a una escuela primaria con armas desenfundadas e interrumpieron una celebración de Halloween, comentó. Unos días antes de su visita, dijo, una mujer seguía un auto con agentes de ICE cuando entraron en una intersección y frenaron bruscamente, lo que provocó que ella los golpeara. La sacaron bruscamente del auto. Mientras se congregaba una multitud, un hombre que intentó defenderla fue derribado al suelo, los agentes usaron gas pimienta contra la multitud y un agente apuntó con un arma a las personas que estaban grabando el incidente. Homan dijo que la gente de Evanston se ha unido para asegurarse de que las acciones de los agentes de ICE queden documentadas, utilizando silbatos para alertarse mutuamente sobre situaciones en curso. Kelly dijo que es útil asegurarse de que los agentes sepan que sus acciones están siendo presenciadas y registradas. Ella dijo que si los agentes de ICE saben que la gente está grabando videos de lo que está sucediendo, parecen volverse menos agresivos. Hizo un llamado a la gente a ayudar a sus vecinos, citando las palabras del Papa León XIV: “En un momento en que las personas se sienten impotentes para ayudar a los migrantes y refugiados, los cristianos deben seguir insistiendo en que no hay justicia sin compasión, ni legitimidad sin escuchar el dolor de los demás”. Para obtener más información sobre la Oficina de Asistencia de Inmigración de las Hermanas Dominicas de Adrian, visite adriandominicans.org/ Asistencia-para-Inmigración o llame al 517-266-3526.
Benard from page A1 showing up hoping for a meal. They started a program of their own to meet that need, he said, and “now we feed about 200 families a week.” That church also runs Camp Inspire, a program that helps girls explore possible careers. In Adrian, the church’s service includes giving between 16 and 20 scholarships a year to students pursuing postsecondary education. That program has existed since 2008, and Benard estimated that at least 90% of the students who received scholarships have gone on to graduate. The church also provides mentorship to those students and helps them buy whatever supplies they need. Benard retired from his career in corrections in 1991 and has devoted himself to the church ever since. “When my wife and I got married, I said when I get to 50 years old, I’m not going to be working for nobody but God,” he recalled. His wife Andre’a has been with him throughout that journey. He jokes that she’s his “holy trinity” — “she is my girlfriend, she is my best friend, she is my wife.” And after 59 years, he said, “we would probably marry each other over and over again.” “None of my kids have ever seen me and my wife get in an argument or fight,” he added. “That doesn’t mean we don’t have disagreements, but we learned how to communicate.” The Benards have six children: LaTanya, Perry, Andre’a, Aaron, and twins Marcus and Marie. Aaron, a social worker at Springbrook Middle School, is also a pastor at the church. They have 30 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren. One of the principles he holds to is that humans, as unique as they are, need each other. “All that snow we’ve got out there,” he said on a recent December day, “there’s not two flakes the same. No two human beings are the same, not even identical twins. We might look the same, but we are unique.” But those differences are a strength, not a weakness, and strength can be found in coming together.
“There is a cure for cancer,” he said by way of example. But, he said, “part of the cure is in Australia, part of the cure is in Europe, part of the cure is in Russia.” In short, he said: “I need you, you need me.” Benard said that when people look at him, he hopes they see somebody who, while imperfect, did his best to live up to his ideals. “I try to live what I preach,” he said.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration The 38th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration in Lenawee County will take place at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, in the Tobias Center at Adrian College. The Rev. Robert H. Benard will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Delma Bosquez-Munoz will be honored for her community service, which includes helping migrant farmworkers and working with women at the Catherine Cobb domestic violence shelter. Student awards will be presented to Rolen Maclin from Adrian College, Kimberly Delgado from Siena Heights University, and Lila Mouton-Howard from Jackson College. Tickets are $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight. For more information, contact Andre’a Benard at 517-673-1218 or Pamela Hall at 517-920-2706.
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Debate season wraps up in county » PAGE B3
Estate planning when you don’t have kids » PAGE B5
OUR TOWNS
Department on Aging seeks volunteer drivers » PAGE B7
THE LENAWEE VOICE SECOND SECTION JANUARY 2026
Palmyra Township approves plan for new fire station
Mike Creswell is retiring as Morenci’s police chief following more than four decades in law enforcement. RENEE LAPHAM COLLINS/LENAWEE VOICE
Creswell stepping down as Morenci’s police chief By Renee Lapham Collins The Lenawee Voice
MORENCI — Mike Creswell is retiring — for the third time. The Morenci police chief first retired from the same role in 2020 after six years in the top spot. “But in 2021, they asked me to come back,” Creswell said. “So I did. I even filled in as interim city administrator for a few months.” This time, he said, the step back is meant to be permanent — although he will continue assisting newly appointed chief Nathan Adams as part-time deputy chief.
MORENCI —
See CRESWELL, page B2
Township supervisor Dave Pixley, right, with fire chief Paul Rohlan, shows the site where the new Palmyra Township fire station will be built next to the township hall. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE By Erik Gable
The Lenawee Voice
PALMYRA — It’s been a long time coming, but Palmyra Township is finally getting a new fire station. “We all knew that there was a need,” said Paul Rohlan, who has been the township’s fire chief for 16 years. “Trying to make the funds match that need sometimes got a little sticky.” The need comes from both the tight quarters inside the 5,640-square-foot fire station and from its location right along U.S. 223, which can make it difficult for fire trucks to get out onto the main road when traffic is backed up. The current fire station dates from a time when fire apparatus looked very different than it does today.
PALMYRA —
“The building we’re in now was built in the 1940s, and of course at that time trucks were significantly smaller,” Rohlan said. When the department’s newest truck was purchased several years ago, he said, it actually had to be stored in a firefighter’s barn at first — because it needed modifications to be able to fit through the bay doors. The brush truck, meanwhile, can’t be deployed without first pulling the ambulance out, because the ambulance has to be parked in front of it. Plans call for the new fire station to be built just northwest of the Palmyra Township Hall at 6490 Palmyra Road, and it will ultimately be connected to the township hall. The new building will measure 60 feet by 100 feet. Of that 6,000 square feet of space, about 5,000 square feet will be for the truck bays.
Additional space will be gained by converting some rooms in the township hall to fire department use. Three rooms on the northwest side of the township hall will be converted into an office for the chief and assistant chief, an office for the captains, and a meeting room. A room on the other side of the building will be used for training. The first phase of the project involves constructing the new building and converting the existing spaces in the township hall. The second phase involves connecting the two buildings to each other. That connection will create access to the fire station’s shower facilities from the township hall, a move that — together with the installation of a generator that was completed last spring with funds from the American
See FIRE STATION, page B2
THE CROSWELL PRESENTS THE ALL-AREA HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL
JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 8 THE CROSWELL | 129 E MAUMEE ST | CROSWELL.ORG | 517.264.SHOW
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
Creswell from page B1 “I’ll be scaling back to a part-time role,” Creswell said. A graduate of Tecumseh High School and Michigan State University, Creswell earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1980. “I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be a cop,” he said. “It’s something I always wanted to do. After a while, it just becomes part of you.” He was hired in 1981 by then-Sheriff Dick Germond to join the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office and completed police academy training at Jackson Community College in 1984. “He was a true professional,” Creswell said of Germond, who died in April 2025 at age 90. “He was a great mentor and role model from day one. He had a lot of integrity.” Creswell began his career as a corrections officer, was promoted to road patrol and, in 1988, acquired his first German Shepherd. He was later promoted to corporal and served as the department’s K-9 officer for three decades, working alongside four canines over the course of his career. “The first dog was a German Shepherd trained in Germany by a German police officer — so that was really pretty cool,” he said. “After that dog retired, I trained the next three.” Once their service ended, each dog lived out its remaining years at the Creswell home. “I enjoyed working with the canines,” he said. “There is a real bond between the officer and the dog. They were invaluable companions in police work.” Creswell retired from the sheriff’s department in 2014 with the rank of captain after 32 years of service. Three months later, he accepted what was then a part-time position as Morenci’s police
chief. As the department grew, so did his role, eventually becoming full-time. He retired again in 2020, and a surprise party that summer celebrated the credibility and leadership he brought to the police force serving a city of roughly 2,000 residents. “For me, law enforcement is in my blood,” Creswell said. “I love the job, I like the work, I like working with people. I have enjoyed being in Morenci. But it’s time to scale back.” For a small community with limited resources, consistent leadership has helped stabilize and strengthen the department. And as Creswell steps back, Adams steps forward — a leader shaped by many of the same roads and influences. Adams began his law enforcement career in Ypsilanti in 1991, inspired by a close family friend. While still a student at Ypsilanti High School, he served as an Explorer with the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department and later became a reserve officer with the Ypsilanti Police Department at age 18. He earned his criminal justice degree from Suomi College in Hancock and went on to work as a Marine Deputy for Washtenaw County, then for the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, completing police academy training through Wayne County before moving on to Ypsilanti. After 10 years there, Adams joined the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, where he served for 23 years before retiring with the rank of sergeant — the same department where Creswell spent most of his career. Adams has spent the last three years in Morenci and was the top selection of both outgoing Chief Creswell and the public safety committee. “Law enforcement has a lot of rewarding parts,” Adams said. “Restoring justice for victims, helping those truly in need. I also enjoy having a positive impact on kids and interacting with them.”
Fire chief Paul Rohlan demonstrates the tight quarters inside the current Palmyra Township fire station. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE
Fire station from page B1 Rescue Plan Act of 2021 — will allow the township hall to serve as an emergency warming station. The old fire station will be put up for sale. The cost of Phase 1 is estimated at $850,000. The Palmyra Township board approved the project at its Dec. 9 meeting. “Everything’s being funded 100 percent out of saved funds,” township supervisor Dave Pixley said. Of the $850,000 total, $550,000 will come from fire department savings and
$300,000 will come from the township. Pixley said careful use of funds allowed the township to save enough money for the project. The fire department has two millages, which last for four years each and are staggered so that one is up for renewal every two years. The fire department millages bring in a total of $252,000 per year. Wages and incidental expenses for the department are covered by the township’s general fund. Rohlan credited Pixley with putting in long hours to make the project happen. “Dave’s been working day and night on this thing, it seems like,” he said. Work is expected to begin in March and take four or five months.
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NEIGHBORS Lenawee County students wrap up a strong debate season ADRIAN — Students from the Adrian, Blissfield, Hudson, and Madison school districts wrapped up the Lenawee County debate season with their final tournament in December. The event celebrated months of hard work, practice, and teamwork. In the novice division, Blissfield’s team of Beckett Klump and Carley Watson earned first place after a well-fought debate against Hudson’s Yamilex Sereno and Cooper Pawson. In the varsity division, Hudson’s team of Kayli Butler and Annabelle Czeiszperger took the top spot after a strong performance against Blissfield’s Grahm Jeffrey and Hope Miller. Several students were also recognized with top speaker awards for their outstanding performances in the tournament. Varsity top speakers were Adriannah Cooper, Eddy Hedrick, and Riley Kirkpatrick (Adrian), along with Anna Hiatt, Emma Gunter, and Hope Miller (Blissfield). Novice top speakers were Alex Faraponov, Amelie Haubner, Beckett Klump, Carley Watson, and Philip Buechele (all of Blissfield). This year’s debate season was once again led by Justin Pooley of Blissfield Community Schools. The program also is supported by Adrian First Church of the Nazarene, which provides a location for competitions, and by a host of volunteer judges whose ranks include former debaters, retired teachers, and longtime coaches. — Story and photos provided by the Lenawee Intermediate School District
Varsity speaker awards at the Lenawee County Debate Tournament were won by Emma Gunter, Anna Hiatt, Hope Miller, Adriannah Cooper, Eddy Hedrick, and Riley Kirkpatrick.
Kayli Butler and Annabelle Czeisperger from Hudson earned first place in the varsity division.
Novice speaker awards were won by Philip Buechele, Carley Watson, Beckett Klump, Amelie Haubner and Alex Faraponov.
Beckett Klump and Carley Watson from Blissfield placed first in the novice division.
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Cups, cups, and more cups “It is the best of times, it is the worst of times,” I mutter. “Why are you quoting Tale of Two Cities?” says Marsha who can hear my mutters from a mile away. “Paraphrasing,” I say, as I try to cram another gigantic stainless steel cup into the dishwasher. When I start banging on it with my hand, Marsha intercedes on behalf of the dishwasher. “Tsk tsk.” “I know, I know. Act my age. Getting mad at a Brobdingnagian cup is childish,” I say, giving it one more whack, this time using a heavy saucepan as a hammer. Since early in our marriage, I’ve been the dishwashing-kitchen-cleanup person. Normally, I had no problem getting everything clean, dry and put away, but then Society decided that everyone needs to walk around with a
JIM WHITEHOUSE humongous insulated cup at all times. At first, the cups at least fit into the dishwasher or the drain rack in our sink. Then, year by year, they grew a bit with every new cuppy generation. A couple of years ago they began to grow faster than bamboo in a rain forest. Our water heater is smaller than these cups. Normally, I can manage my own pair of relatively modestly sized cups and my beloved wife Marsha’s fleet of them, with exception of the one that grants her a refill discount at the local coffee shop. That one is the size of Danny DeVito wearing lifts and a top hat. But as I write this, we are happily, joyfully hosting our children, their mates,
Jumpstart your genealogy research ADRIAN — Lenawee County Family Researchers will offer a “Genealogy 101” session at their meetings in 2026 for anyone looking to jumpstart their study of family history. The first meeting of the new year is on Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 6 p.m. at the Lenawee County Historical Museum, 110 E. Church St., Adrian. For more information about Lenawee County Family Researchers, call Judy Sheldon at 989-984-9305.
EBEID CENTER SCHEDULE The following activities are scheduled for January at the Ebeid Center, 801 E. Maumee St. East Adrian Community Coalition Activity Planning — Monday, Jan. 5, 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, Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26 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. Specialty Yoga for Seniors (offered by the YMCA) — Tuesdays, Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 4 p.m. A free seven-week series appropriate for all skill levels. Diaper Bank Pop-Up (presented by Lenawee Great Start Collaborative) — Thursday, Jan. 8, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Do you need diapers? Stop in to pick up a week’s worth of diapers. This month, WIC will also be on site with enrollment guidance and other helpful resources. Budgeting in the New Year (presented by Community Action Agency) — Thursday, Jan. 8, from 5:30-7 p.m. This class is part of the Financial Empowerment Series and will focus on a personal budget and spending habits for the new year. East Adrian Community Coalition Meeting — Monday, Jan. 12, 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. Blood Pressure Bingo (presented by East Adrian Community Coalition) — Monday, Jan. 12, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to
have their blood pressure taken and win a fit-bit style blood pressure wrist band, a blood pressure cuff, other prizes and learn important blood-pressure related health facts all while having fun with friends and neighbors. Rent for Success (presented by Community Action Agency) — Tuesday, Jan. 20, from 5:30-7 p.m. Learn about fair housing laws, lease agreements, tenants rights, maintenance, repairs & more. All who attend will receive a $50 stipend if preregistered and a private budget session with CAA is completed. Advance registration required. Virtual Reality Career Exploration (presented by Michigan Works) — Wednesday, Jan. 21, from 3:30-5 p.m. explore more than 20 hands-on career simulations with TRANSFER VR headsets, offering immersive experiences in fields such as aviation, healthcare, engineering, construction, and other trades to help you discover your future profession. For adults and kids ages 12 and up. Understanding Credit (presented by Community Action Agency) — Thursday, Jan. 22, from 5:30-7 p.m. Have you ever struggled to pay your bills or get out of debt, or aren’t sure how to improve your credit score? Come and learn how to establish or repair your credit and achieve greater financial stability and self sufficiency. Important aspects of the Fair Credit Reporting Act are covered. Fathers of Lenawee (facilitated by De’Angelo Boone) — Tuesday, Jan. 27, 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.
and our grandchildren for a nice visit. That the airlines could accommodate all the insulated cups they brought with them is a testament to the downsizing of airplanes, the seats of which are now 63% the width of a human bottom and have 43% of space for human feet. The planes now have four too few bathrooms, and the ones they have are 58% the size of a person in urgent need. The cups become fatter and fatter and now they’ve grown handles. They have also grown taller. Sometimes when I’m doing the dishes I give up entirely on trying to fit them in the dishwasher and wash them by hand. Lots of things next to my sink get washed by hand. Wooden things. Kitchen knives. Some plastic things. Huge pots and pans. Grandchildren. Washing a few enormous insulated cups with their lids and sometimes with specialized dedicated straws is an annoying problem that would be easily solved if I’d use the bathtub to wash them, but water tainted with bubble bath is not good.
Marsha ordered a doodad online and it turned out to be the wrong size. The company emailed her a return shipping label that when printed is twice as big as the box she needs to return. The label is the size of an insulated cup that has been squashed flat by a steamroller. She very sweetly asked me to figure out a way to downsize the form. I fiddled with my computer for an hour, accidentally deleted my printer from my network, but finally managed to print the form in the proper size. Before bar codes and QR codes, it was easy. Paper, pen, tape and BINGO! The package would be ready to go. Nevertheless, old school, new school— what the Dickens! I managed to get the job done. “Now I can take a break,” I say as I hand the label to Marsha, “for it is a far, far better thing that I did, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than after I washed the cups.” Jim Whitehouse grew up in Morenci, practiced law in Hudson, and now lives in Albion.
Morenci Kiwanians plan annual Soup & Pie Dinner MORENCI — The Morenci Kiwanis Club will host its annual Soup & Pie Dinner to raise money for the Rex Riley Scholarship Foundation next month. The event will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Morenci Eagles, 239 W. Main St. The cost of the all-you-can-eat soup and pie dinner is $10. All funds raised will go to scholarships for Morenci graduates. The foundation was started in 1983 to honor longtime Morenci teacher and principal Rex Riley, who was also a Kiwanian. Since then, Kiwanian Matt Garrow said, the group has given about 200 scholarships totaling about $225,000. The soup comes from the Morenci Subway, and the fruit pies are made by Tammy Clark, owner of the Village Inn. Also taking place at the soup and pie dinner will be raffles, including one for a bench made by Roy Sholl. This follows a longtime tradition for the Rex Riley Scholarship Foundation that began with Riley himself, who used to make a wooden bench to be sold each year to help fund scholarships. “There are a lot of Rex Riley benches around Morenci and around the county,” Garrow said.
Civitan Grand Giveaway is April 11 ADRIAN — Civitan of Lenawee is hosting its 44th annual Grand Giveaway on Saturday, April 11, in the Tobias Room at Adrian College. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $175 for two guests and dinner is included. Three top cash prizes of $5,000, $2,000 and $1,000 will be given away, and there will also be silent and live auction items. All proceeds go to benefit projects that the club sponsors throughout the year to serve mentally and physically challenged individuals in Lenawee County. For more information or to buy tickets, email sue.stange@lisd.us or cswiftgoldwing@ gmail.com. Adrian Noon Rotary: The Adrian Noon Rotary Club meets on the first, second and third Thursday of each month at The Centre, 1800 West U.S. 223, Adrian. This year marks the club’s 104th anniversary for the club. Membership and other information is available at adrianrotary.org. Adrian Breakfast Lions: The Adrian Breakfast Lions Club meets every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Family Kitchen, 2984 Treat St., Adrian. Anyone interested in membership is welcome to attend a meeting to learn more, or email adrian.lions@yahoo.com.
SERVICE CLUBS ROUNDUP
Blissfield Rotary: The Blissfield Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at noon at Lena’s Italian Restaurant, at 214 E. Adrian St., Blissfield. Anyone interested in joining is invited to visit a meeting, email the club at blissfieldrotary@gmail.com or reach out to a club member. More information, including a list of club members, is available at blissfieldrotary.org. Tecumseh Kiwanis: The Kiwanis Club of Tecumseh meets at the Tecumseh United Methodist Church, 605 Bishop Reed Drive, Tecumseh. Regular meetings, including breakfast, are held from 7-8 a.m. the first three or four Tuesdays of the month. Anyone interested in joining the club is encouraged to attend a regular meeting. Morenci Kiwanis: The Kiwanis Club of Morenci meets at noon each Wednesday at the Village Inn, 121 W. Main St., in Morenci. To find out about becoming a member, email the club at MorenciKiwanisClub@gmail.com or attend a meeting for more information. 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. — Compiled by Julie C. Clemes
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No kids? Three calls-to-action for charitable planning Many people without children wonder how their legacy will take shape. Rather than focusing on heirs, they often find freedom to channel their resources, time, and values toward the broader community. Indeed, Americans over age 50 without children are more than four times as likely as parents to have a charitable estate plan. If you fall into this group — or advise family members who do — take a moment to consider adopting an intentional philanthropic strategy. The Lenawee Community Foundation is happy to help. Reach out anytime for a conversation! Here are three themes we’ll consider as we begin our dialogue. Treat charitable giving as an expression of identity: For people without children, the causes they champion often become extensions of their values and impact. A fund at the
BRONNA KAHLE Lenawee Community Foundation can bear the name of its donors or something else entirely to represent the priorities of its founders. Examples of fund names include “Smith Family Fund,” “Sally Smith and Joe Brown Foundation Fund,” “Building Stronger Communities Fund,” “Animal Welfare Innovation Fund,” or anything else meaningful to the donors who create it. The choice is yours! Integrate charitable planning into estate planning: People who do not have
children often have greater flexibility in determining how their wealth will create lasting meaning and impact beyond their lifetimes. By integrating charitable planning into their estate and financial strategies, they can direct resources toward causes that reflect their values and ensure their legacy benefits the broader community. Without the need to provide for heirs, charitable planning offers a thoughtful way to give purpose to accumulated assets and make a difference for future generations. Branch out to extended family: Without the generational handoff of children, people without children might have flexibility most donors don’t. This can mean involving nieces, nephews, other younger relatives, or community members in the philanthropic journey, building a multi-year giving plan, or
shifting giving based on changing community needs. When you establish a donor-advised fund at the Lenawee Community Foundation, you can name successor advisors to take your place in recommending charities to receive distributions. Whether or not you have children, the Lenawee Community Foundation is a sounding board and resource every step of the way. Please reach out to learn more about how we can help you and your family build a charitable plan that is tailored to both your personal and family goals, as well as your goals for making a difference in the causes you care about. Bronna Kahle is president and CEO of the Lenawee Community Foundation. For more information, call 517-263-4696, email forlenawee@lenaweecf.com, or visit lenaweecf.com.
B6 | NEIGHBORS
JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
CLINTON ROTARY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
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The Clinton Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for October was Dalia Albashir. She holds a 4.19 GPA and serves as president of the Earth Club, president of the International Club, secretary of National Honor Society, representative on Student Government, and a member of the Hispanic Honor Society and the girls varsity soccer team. She is pictured with her father Amin, mother Kimberly, and Rotary member Gary Couture.
CHARLES J. NOE 517-263-4062
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The Clinton Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for November was Elijah Turner. He serves as president of student government, secretary of Earth Club, and PR officer of National Honor Society, and is active in the Clinton Baptist Church youth group. He has enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, pursuing a career in Air Traffic Control. He is pictured with his father John, Rotarian Charlie Steffens, sister Evie, mother Jessica, and brother Leo.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS Lenawee Department on Aging is in need of volunteer drivers One of the most important services the Lenawee Department on Aging provides is Home Delivered Meals. Each weekday, hot meals go to adults 60 and older who are homebound, unable to prepare food, and have no one who can assist them. This requires 38 delivery routes across the county, leaving from senior centers in Addison, Blissfield, Hudson, Morenci, Onsted, Tecumseh, and from the central kitchen in Adrian. These deliveries are only possible because of dedicated volunteers. Some deliver every day, others once a week, or even just a couple of days a month. “It does not matter how often they deliver; it makes a difference,” says nutrition director Connie Fenby-Beevers. Longtime volunteer and former department director Tom MacNaughton shared, “Delivering meals is one of the most tangible ways to give meaning to life.” Volunteers come from many places and backgrounds. Some deliver because it gives purpose to their day. Others
CARI REBOTTARO serve as part of a community service requirement. Many employers allow staff to take a longer lunch hour to help. College athletic teams, the Goodwill LINK program, and the HOPE Center have also made commitments to deliver meals. The Department on Aging is grateful for each one. During the winter months, volunteer drivers are especially needed. Routes are ready between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m., and most take about an hour. One volunteer, Diane Bach, noted, “It only takes an hour to make sure older adults talk with someone and have a nutritious meal.”
Volunteers can receive mileage reimbursement at the federal rate and are invited to enjoy a meal when they return. But as volunteer driver Margaret O’Malley reminds us, “We deliver food and receive blessings in return.” Deputy director Dillon Donaghy adds, “Delivering meals with a friend or co-worker is a win-win. You get to spend time with someone while making a huge impact.” Volunteer coordinators at each site are happy to pair new drivers with someone experienced so they can try a delivery before making a commitment. Volunteer drivers are needed now across the county, especially through the winter months. If you, your staff or organization, can spare an hour, consider joining this amazing group. Call the Lenawee Department on Aging at 264-5280 to sign up or learn more. Cari Rebottaro is director of the Lenawee County Department on Aging.
Take action to protect your home from radon January is National Radon Action Month, a reminder that one of the most dangerous threats to our health is something we can’t see, smell, or taste. Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. Outdoors, it disperses quickly. Indoors, however, it can accumulate to dangerous levels, entering through cracks in foundations, floors, and walls, or even through well water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. The World Health Organization and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also classify radon as a known human carcinogen. Long-term exposure, particularly in enclosed spaces, poses the greatest risk. Any home, new or old, drafty or tightly sealed, can have high levels of radon. Testing is the only reliable way to know your risk. Homeowners, renters, and landlords alike are encouraged to
MONICA HUNT test, especially those living below the third floor of a building. Testing not only protects health but can also affect property value, as prospective buyers often request radon results during a home purchase. Testing is simple and inexpensive. Short-term kits are placed in the home for two to seven days and mailed to a lab for analysis. Long-term kits can measure radon levels for more than 90 days. The EPA recommends retesting every two years or after major renovations. If radon levels are at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), mitigation is necessary. Fixing a radon problem is achievable. Mitigation systems, such as sub-slab depressurization, can vent radon safely
outdoors. Increasing ventilation, sealing cracks, and opening windows can help temporarily, but professional systems are the most reliable long-term solution. Contractors certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) can provide testing and installation services. Lenawee County residents have extra support this month: the Lenawee County Health Department is offering free radon test kits in January. Kits can be picked up at the office during normal business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1–4:30 p.m.). Outside of January, test kits are available for $10. Radon may be invisible, but the risk is real, and preventable. Testing your home is an easy, proactive step toward safeguarding your family’s health. For more information, visit www.epa. gov/radon or call the Lenawee County Health Department at 517-264-5213. Monica Hunt is the Lenawee County Health Department’s health officer.
Are your kids getting enough Vitamin D? Michigan State University Extension
Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin for the growth and development of children. As the winter days get shorter and the nights grow longer, children spend less time in the natural sunlight outside which helps the body produce Vitamin D. Recent research has found that many children and adolescents are Vitamin D–deficient or insufficient. There has been increased interest in Vitamin D recently and its role in the prevention of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and various types of cancer. Vitamin D also plays an important role in bone health. Vitamin D facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and helps in the deposition of these minerals in bones and teeth, which makes bones stronger and healthier. Vitamin D also builds up the immune system of children and aids in the regulation of their cell growth. There are several factors which can contribute to deficiency. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that occurs in some animal products. Vitamin D is also produced when ultraviolet rays from the sun shine on the skin and trigger Vitamin D metabolism. Unfortunately, most parts of Michigan do not receive enough sunshine, even during the warmer months of the year for people to obtain enough sun light exposure to meet vitamin D needs. Even in the summer when sunlight hours are longer, the use of sunscreen blocks the production of Vitamin D through the skin. Not many foods contain Vitamin D naturally. Children who are selective eaters or who drink little milk are at risk of not consuming enough Vitamin D. What can be done to prevent Vitamin D Deficiency? Consumption of foods high in vitamin D should be encouraged. Some of these foods include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, fortified milk products and other fortified foods
See VITAMIN D, page B8
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Vitamin D from page B7 such as breakfast cereal. Unfortunately, it is difficult to obtain sufficient levels of Vitamin D from natural food sources alone. According to the CDC, breast milk alone does not provide for all of a baby’s Vitamin D needs so breastfed babies need to be supplemented with 400 IU of vitamin D each day. Infant formulas are fortified with Vitamin D so fully formula fed infants do not need supplementation. As babies begin to consume more solid foods, continue to encourage consumption of Vitamin D rich foods and fortified foods. Children and adolescents who have limited sun light exposure, darker skin tones, excess body fat and are living in areas of higher altitudes are at higher risk for deficiency and should consider supplementation. Consider talking to your child’s health care provider for more information. Michigan State University Extension offers a variety of nutrition and foodrelated programs at no cost to help you build healthier habits for your family.
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. Caregiver Support Group: Monday, Jan. 5 at 2 p.m., Daybreak Adult Day Services, 327 Erie St., Adrian. This month’s session will be facilitated by Kathy Johnston Betzoldt, and will explore the topic “Setting Realistic Resolutions as a Caregiver.” Free respite care is available during the meeting. More info: 517-266-2588. 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., 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. To submit a support group listing or report any corrections or changes, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.
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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
Linda Sue (Leonard) Marvin, 81, of Leesburg, Florida, died on May 30. She was a 1961 graduate of Adrian High School and former resident of Palmyra. She and her husband moved to Florida in 2020. She worked in the registrar’s office at Siena Heights University until 2007. Feliz Sanchez, 88, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 22. She devoted many years of service to Herrick Memorial Hospital, retiring after a long career. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Tecumseh. [PS] Gwendolyn Marie Maxam, 75, of Britton died on Nov. 1. She was a 1968 graduate of Edwardsburg High School and earned a business degree from Adrian College. She was employed for many years at Ford Motor Co. in Saline. She loved cooking and baking, and in her later years she became a cake decorator. In 4-H she showed her first dog and she went on to raise and show deerhounds and wolfhounds. She also created pottery at the Adrian Center for the Arts. [PA] Eric Theodore Ames, 53, of Hudson died on Nov. 10. He was a lifelong resident of Hudson and spent most of his career as a correctional officer in Adrian. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, gardening, playing cards, and spending time with his family. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hudson and also attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in Zephyrhills, Florida. [BVH] Cory Jay Robison, 50, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 15. After high school he began working with Ford Motor Co., where he spent 30 years. He was a hi-lo driver at the Rawsonville, Saline and Dearborn plants. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion and the UAW Local 600 in Dearborn. [H] Ronald Lee Grimes, 86, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 16. He worked for Lenawee County in the maintenance department for 30 years, retiring in 2002. He was introduced to the building trades by his grandfather and at 16 years old he built his first house on his own. He was an elder at the Tecumseh Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. [AM] Joanne M. Arnold, 78, of Adrian died on Nov. 17. She was a 1966 graduate of Madison High School. She worked at Kelly’s Sunoco as a clerk, retiring in 2001. She was a nature lover and enjoyed watching the squirrels play and hummingbirds coming to her feeder. [AM] Lonnie Randal Hawkins, 86, died on Nov. 17. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. He attended Washtenaw Community College and Wayne County Community College, earning a bachelor’s degree in skilled trades. He had a long career as a tool repairman with General Motors in Ypsilanti. He was an avid outdoorsman and was active with several hunting clubs. He was a proud 32nd-degree Mason. [AM] Jack L. Holderman, 85, of Tipton died on Nov. 17. He was a 1960 graduate of Michigan Center High School. He worked at Ford Motor Co. in Saline for 33 years until his retirement. He was involved with Tecumseh Parks & Recreation Little League baseball teams. He was also active in the Tecumseh High School wrestling program, and he and his wife were active in area mixed bowling leagues and the Tipton Jets 4-H Club. [PS]
Dan Alan Betzoldt, 83, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 18. He spent most of his life in the Macon and Tecumseh area. He was an expert mechanic and pilot. He knew everything about the Meyers airplanes and taught his stepson to fly. He loved living on Merillat airport, watching every plane from his window. He was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, Vintage Aircraft Association, Antique Aircraft Association and many others. [H] Michelle Lynn Burciaga, 54, of Adrian died on Nov. 18. She was a graduate of Collinwood High School in Cleveland. She enjoyed crafting and had a passion for cooking and baking. [AM] George Lester Ely, 75, of Adrian died on Nov. 18. He worked for Morenci Rubber and Sauder Woodworking until his retirement. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and anything outdoors. [AM] Charlotte Ruth Binder, 88, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 19. She enjoyed bowling, golf, pinochle, euchre, sewing, crocheting, painting, and listening to music. She and her husband traveled around the U.S. and Canada in their motor home. [PS] Barbara Jeanette (Schreiner) Cummings, 91, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 19. She was known for her playful wit, upbeat spirit, and never-ending sense of humor. She loved hearing stories, sharing gossip, and being involved in community events. [PS] Madeline Marie Denecker, 88, of Riga Township, died on Nov. 19 at Blissfield Place. She was a member of Light of Christ Catholic Church in Blissfield. As a young woman, she nurtured her children, supported her husband’s work on the farm, and operated the family’s fruit and vegetable stand. [W] Luetta Ellis, 93, of Manitou Beach died on Nov. 19. After graduating from high school she joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed on Treasure Island in California. She then built her career in the Detroit area as supervisor of admitting at Wayne County General Hospital. She loved bowling with friends and enjoyed her years living on Round Lake at Manitou Beach. [BVH] Aldean Arnold Guenther, 83, of Adrian died on Nov. 19. He worked as a machine repair electrician for Gelman’s Sciences, retiring in 1998. He was a former member of Bethel United Church of Christ in Manchester. [AM] Lee Alan Wagner, 79, of Macon died on Nov. 19. He was a 1964 graduate of Britton High School. Following trade school, he worked as a bricklayer for Local 2 for over 41 years, retiring in 2008. He was a member of the Macon Township board for over 40 years, serving at the township supervisor for much of that time. He was involved in the Lenawee County Fair, serving as sheep superintendent and a member of the Junior Livestock Board. He was a member of Britton Congregational Church. [AM] Michelle Renee Richardson, 52, of Clinton died on Nov. 20. [PA] Mary SusAnn “Sue” Willaert, 90, of Saline died on Nov. 20. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Tecumseh and belonged to the Rosary Altar Society and taught religious education classes. She worked in the Britton-Macon school system as a teacher’s aide and cafeteria worker. She also helped work the elections in Ridgeway Township. [H]
Esther Etter, age 92, formerly of Adrian, died on Nov. 21. She graduated from Adrian High School in 1951 and earned degrees from Siena Heights College and New Mexico State University. She taught from 1952 to 1963 in the Round Top, Woodside, Birdsall, and Clayton school. [W] Ernistine Jean Smith, 71, of Morenci died on Nov. 21. She worked in the manufacturing field, retiring from Hi-Lex in Hudson. She loved spending time in and around her pool and traveling to the Smoky Mountains. [AM] Patricia Ann (McElfresh) Clymer, 91, of Adrian died on Nov. 23. She was a 1952 graduate of Adrian High School. She worked at Fisher Body in Tecumseh for many years until her retirement. She also was an activity director at RV parks in Morenci and Florida. [PA] Thomas Frederick Kauffman, 86, of Harrison Township, formerly of Brooklyn, died on Nov. 23. He was a 1958 graduate of Catholic Central High School in Alpena. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1959-1963. He graduated from Madonna University with a master’s degree in criminal justice and worked as a police officer at the Detroit Police Department for 25 years. Afterward he worked in security at Detroit Children’s Hospital. After building a home near Brooklyn he worked at Knutson’s Sporting Goods. He was a lifelong member of American Legion Post 550 in Onsted. [E] Rosemary Russell, 96, of Jonesville died on Nov. 23. She grew up in Pittsford, then lived in Addison for 25 years and the Hanover area for 15 years before moving to Jonesville in 2001. She worked as a receptionist at the Addison Hospital and then for Dr. Jack Hinkle. [AM] Richard Alan Schultz, 80, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 23. He was a 1963 graduate of Dundee High School and attended Eastern Michigan University. He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. He worked at Tecumseh Products for 35 years, retiring in 2000, and later became an associate at the local Radio Shack. [H] Joan Lee Austin, 96, of Brooklyn died on Nov. 24. She was a 1946 graduate of Catholic Central High School, at age 16, and Brooklyn High School in 1947. After retiring from Jackson Community College she headed to the Brooklyn library. [W] Keith A. Bowles, 58, of Tipton died on Nov. 24. He was a graduate of Clinton High School and was the owner of a building company and several other small businesses in the Irish Hills area. [PA] Larry Jay Dicks, 79, of Dexter died on Nov. 24. He was a graduate of Saline High School and began a 40-year career with Ford Motor Company as a diecast die maker. He was mechanically inclined and loved tearing apart cars, working on them, and putting them back together again. [H] Abbigal Marie-Adele Garbers, 19, of Morenci died on Nov. 24. She was a 2025 graduate of Hudson Area Schools. She earned numerous horticultural certificates as a member of FFA. She had a deep appreciation for all living things and aspired to a career in which she could educate others about animals. She worked as a cashier at the University of Toledo Medical Center cafeteria and a night security guard at The Shops at Fallen Timbers in Maumee. [AM] Lori Ann Lyon, 59, of Adrian died on Nov. 24. She served as the office manager at Carleton Equipment Company. In her younger years she enjoyed expressing her artistic side through creating drawings. Over the years one of her favorite things was accompanying her husband on their Lake Erie fishing trips. [H] Virginia “Ginny” Kay Ingall, 66, of Adrian died on Nov. 25. She was a 1977 graduate of Addison High School and served in the U.S. Air Force for 10 years. She worked at Walmart for 33 years and attended Trinity Baptist Church. [PA] Leonard Dale Parr, 53, of Hudson died on Nov. 25. He was a 1991 graduate of Adrian High School. He worked at Martinrea in Jonesville as a welder for the last 15 years. He liked being outdoors and volunteered as the assistant scoutmaster for Troop #602 of Hudson. [AM]
Mary Louise Smith, 97, of Adrian died on Nov. 25. She was valedictorian of the Adrian High School class of 1946 and earned a teaching degree from Adrian College. She taught at McKinley and Alexander elementary schools. She was a member of the Adrian Garden Club, Adrian Drama Club, Tau Delta Sorority, Lenawee County Retired School Personnel, and the Michigan Education Association. She served on the Croswell Opera House board of directors. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Adrian. [W] Rose Eleanor (Sheldon) Covell, 98, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 26. Over the years she dedicated her time and energy to her church. Most mornings she started with meeting friends for coffee at the local McDonald’s and was a regular for lunch at Tecumseh Big Boy. She had an extensive wardrobe of hats for every occasion. She worked at Stubnitz/Hoover Ball Bearing, and later baked and decorated special occasion cakes, followed by basket weaving and later working in a garden center. [PS] Betty Anne Rupley, 68, of Hudson died on Nov. 26. She was a 1975 graduate of Hudson High School. She worked for AAA for over 30 years, retiring in 2009. She spent more than 10 years baking and selling cookies at the farmers market. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. [BVH] Arnold Lloyd Smith, 90, of Morenci died on Nov. 27. He was a Navy veteran. After leaving the service he worked as a grocer with the former A&P Store in Morenci until its closure, then for the Tecumseh and Adrian locations. He also worked in maintenance at the Dominican Life Center. In retirement, he assisted at the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home for several years. He was a member of Sand Creek Community Church and American Legion Post 368 in Morenci, and a 31-year member of the Morenci Fire Department. [AM] Dorothy E. Smith, 87, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 27. She attended Longwood University and graduated from the University of Virginia. She was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority and the Kappa Delta Pi Honorary Fraternity. She enjoyed traveling, was a master gardener and had a passion for reading. She considered the Tecumseh District Library her second home. [H] Thomas Earl Tarris, 79, of Adrian died on Nov. 27. He was a 1964 graduate of Adrian High School and served in the U.S. Army. He was employed for over 39 years as a mail carrier with the Adrian post office, retiring in 2003. He was a member of Adrian First United Methodist Church and belonged to the American Legion Post 97. He was also a member of the 32nd-degree Mason of the Scottish Rite and a member of Shriners International. He worked part-time for several area funeral homes, most recently Anderson-Marry Funeral Home. [AM] Ann Ferns, 95, of Tecumseh died on Nov. 28. She lived many years in Santa Barbara, California, and moved back to Michigan in 2023. She worked for Tres Condados Girl Scout Council Inc. until her retirement. She enjoyed traveling and genealogy research. [H] Rosamaria Martinez Perez, 85, of Adrian died on Nov. 28. She was a 1958 graduate of Cotulla High School and earned her bachelor’s degree in guidance and counseling from Siena Heights University. She retired from Adrian High School as a counselor in June 1999. She was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. [AM] Judith “Judy” Ann Wood, 81, of Adrian died on Nov. 28. She was a graduate of Adrian High School and continued her education at Stautzenberger College. She was a medical transcriptionist at Bixby Hospital for 32 years. Even after retiring she continued to work from home. She was a member of Bethany Assembly of God. She had a passion for music and sang in the Joy Bell Trio. [AM] Teresa Marie Little, 69, of Clinton died on Nov. 29. She was passionate about the healthcare industry, holding jobs such as EMT and phlebotomist. [H]
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IN MEMORY George C. Hawkins, 91, of Manitou Beach died on Nov. 30. He was a 1952 graduate of Britton-Macon High School and attended Spring Arbor College. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 38 years of service. He had a walking mail route in Tecumseh and was known as “The Whistling Mailman.” He then worked as a rural mail carrier and postmaster in Britton, officer-in-charge at the Tecumseh post office, and ultimately postmaster in Adrian. He started youth athletic programs in Britton and organized and ran them for eight years. He served in the Michigan Army National Guard for 42 years. [PS] Christopher James “CJ” Karpinski, 42, of Petersburg died on Nov. 30. He earned a special education degree from Mason Consolidated Schools in 2001. For years he worked in the stables at St. Isidore Farm in Monroe. He was a parisioner at Light of Christ Parish, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Deerfield. [AM] Randy Douglass Keck, 55, of Clayton died on Nov. 30. He graduated from Adrian High School in 1988 and went on to attend the American Motorcycle Academy. He worked at Floyd’s Rigging for eight years and was a co-owner of C&J Pallets, a familyowned business. [W] Richard Norman Westgate, 82, of Britton died on Nov. 30. He was employed at Tecumseh Products as a tool maker for 36 years, retiring in 1998, and then worked for Chrysler for 10 years. He was a member of the UAW Local 1435. He served on the Raisin Township Fire Department for 26 years. [H] Daryl “Flip” A. Davis, 75, of Deerfield died on Dec. 1. He worked as a truck driver for more than 40 years. [W] Jerry Willard Emery, 83, of Adrian died on Dec. 1. He was an Adrian High School graduate. He worked at General Motors, retiring after 30 years, and also ran a greenhouse with his wife, Joan. [W] Charlotte Rose Hardy, 66, of Adrian died on Dec. 1. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, and caring for her family. [AM] Marjorie (Pleva) Hartley, 81, of Hudson died on Dec. 1. She was a graduate of Hudson Area Schools and Cleary College. She worked at Hudson State Bank for more than 40 years. [AM] Christile Ann “Chris” Whitcher, 77, of Jerome died on Dec. 1. She was a 1967 graduate of Addison High School and was a member of Somerset Center United Methodist Church. One of her favorite traditions each year was the Civil War Muster. [BVH] Helen Louise Cangley, 92, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 2. She was a 1951 graduate and valedictorian of Parsons High School in West Virginia. She graduated in 1954 from Berea College in Kentucky and became a registered nurse, retiring from Herrick Memorial Hospital in 1995 after 40 years of service. She was a lifetime member of Tecumseh American Legion Auxillary. [PS] Ralph E. Koon, 76, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 2. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He retired from Ford Motor Co. in Saline after 32 years of service. In his spare time he enjoyed working on cars. [PA] Stephen Robert Sancho, 73, of Adrian died on Dec. 2. He was a 1970 graduate of Onsted High School and served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He was employed at Greg Bell Chevrolet for over 20 years. [PA] Scott E. Farrell, 55, of Adrian died on Dec. 3. He was a 1989 graduate of Addison High School and worked as a laborer and in food service throughout his life. He enjoyed hunting, woodworking, and cooking for his family and friends. [BVH] Cheryl Lynn Frey, age 64, of Hudson died on Dec. 3. She graduated from Sand Creek High School in 1979. [W] Patricia Ann Hillard, 86, of Adrian died on Dec. 3. She was employed by Midwest Tire/Ramus Auto Parts for 32 years, retiring in 1999. She enjoyed the many trips she and her husband took with their family, and she loved nature and camping. [AM]
Barbara Villarreal, 62, of Manitou Beach died on Dec. 3. She was employed with Ford Motor Company for many years and worked in Saline and Livonia. [W] Anna May Wingfield, 75, of Adrian died on Dec. 3. She worked at Tecumseh Products for many years and later at Merillat Cabinets until retirement. She was an active member at the Adrian Church of God. [W] Marjorie Mae Allen, 84, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 4. She attended the Tecumseh Covenant Evangelical Presbyterian Church and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, basket weaving, quilting, and her exercise classes. [AM] Marcus V. Rowland, 71, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 4. He served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy, and retired from The Crown Group in Livonia in 2019. He enjoyed going on drives with his wife and children and walking through Hidden Lake Gardens and Crosswinds Marsh. [PA] William Glen Whitehead, 64, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 4. He enjoyed Houghton Lake, boating, drag racing, karaoke, MMA fights, Michigan sports, fishing, and hunting. [AM] Richard “Dick” Michael Bowen, 82, of Lansing died on Dec. 5. He was a graduate of Adrian Catholic Central High School and was a brick layer by profession. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He was an avid outdoorsman. [AM] Marlene Burrow-Cates, 88, of Jasper died on Dec. 5. She spent her winters in Zephyr Hills, Florida, and her summers in Jasper. She was a former member of the Fairview United Brethren Church and currently belonged to the Zion United Brethren Church. She was a member of the Eagles, the Moose Ladies Auxiliary, and the Rebecca Lodge of Jasper. She bowled for 36 years on the Friday night league at Rich Lanes, and enjoyed camping. [AM] Joseph Gerald Eaton, 70, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 5. He began working at Plywood of Tecumseh when he was 16 and then moved on to concrete/construction in 1978, working for various companies and becoming a supervisor before retiring at 65. [H] Michael James Patterson, 73, of Adrian died on Dec. 5. Throughout his life he chose to dedicate himself to ministry. He worked as a house parent at the Regular Baptist Children’s Agency, as a pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Shepard, and as a youth pastor, missionary and staff evangelist at Faith Baptist Church in Muskegon. George Theodore Jamerson, 92, of Clayton died on Dec. 6. He was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for over 40 years, retiring in 1990. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean conflict. He was a member of Berean Baptist Church and the Letters Carrier Union. [AM] Michael E. Kruse, 67, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 7. He was a 1976 graduate of Madison High School. In 1983, he opened Kruse Construction, operating the business until his retirement in 2017. A member of the Michigan Regional Carpenter’s Union, he was a master carpenter. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion and formerly of Friends of the VFW. [AM] Judy Carol Webb, 85, died on Dec. 7. She was a machine operator for General Motors for 28 years, retiring in 2006. She loved fishing and gardening. [AM] William Kiger Adams Jr., 87, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 8. He was a graduate of Bowling Green State University. He started his career at Dow Corning in Bowling Green, and retired from Wacker Chemical as a research chemist after 30 years. He sang with the JC Barber Shop Quartet of Tecumseh. He had been a member of Tecumseh United Methodist Church since 1967, serving on many committees and singing in the choir. [H] David Alan Bendele, 66, of Brooklyn died on Dec. 8. He was a 1978 graduate of Columbia Central High School. He worked as an operating engineer at Bailey Excavation for 20 years and at Bendele Excavation for 21 years. He was a former member of the Eagles. [E]
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IN MEMORY Marjorie Ann Voorhees Castle, 101, of Adrian died on Dec. 8. She was valedictorian of the Addison High School class of 1942 and attended Siena Heights College. She worked at Addison Community Hospital until 1964 and later managed the Bixby Hospital radiology office, retiring in 1985. She was involved with the Girl Scouts, 4-H, Adrian Business & Professional Women, Lenawee Historical Society, Addison Community Hospital and Bixby Auxillary, Project Lead, Adrian Community Nursery, Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts, Chapter DK-PEO, Lucy Wolcott DAR, Daughters of American Colonists, and Lenawee Country Club. [W] John Richard Hurlbut, 67, of Ocala, Florida, formerly of Adrian, died on Dec. 8. He attended Nazareth Hall Military School for a year and later received his GED from Adrian High School. In Florida, he held various jobs from nursing home aide to taxi driver. He had a love for reptiles and had his own reptile removal and relocation business. Nelda Ruth Zink, 95, of Palmyra died on Dec. 8. She was a graduate of Adrian High School. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and was active in Bible studies, choir, and service to the community through church. She worked at the A&P for many years. [AM] Nancy Jean Chadderdon, 77, of Tecumseh died on Dec. 9. She was a 1966 graduate of Niles High School. She worked at the August Company and was an active member of the Tecumseh Servvice Club for 25 years. [H] Timothy Russel Downard, 62, of Cement City died on Dec. 9. He was a 1981 graduate of Adrian High School. He was employed at Camp International, later known as TruLife, for over 30 years. He loved the lake life, fishing in tournaments, especially the Catfish Acres Tournament and ice fishing. [E] Frank Arthur Halberstadt, 64, of Saline died on Dec. 9. He was born in Tecumseh. He worked as a long-haul truck driver for many years. [PA] Jean Michelle Harris, 65, of Britton died on Dec. 9. She was employed in customer service in the banking industry and in the gas station business. [H] Theresa Marie Oswald, 84, of Adrian died on Dec. 9. She earned an LPN degree and worked primarily at Bixby Hospital before her retirement. She attended New Life Ministries in Adrian. She would often perform on her portable keyboard at the Adrian and Madison farmers markets. She had a passion for painting. [H] David John Larson, 80, of Adrian died on Dec. 11. He was a 1963 graduate of Sand Creek High School. He owned and co-owned several businesses, including Connecting Point Computer Center, Lenawee Computer, and Carol’s Hallmark stores for 30 years, retiring in 2011. [AM] Sister Christine Matthew, OP, 89, of Adrian died on Dec. 11. Formerly Sister James Elizabeth, she was in her 70th year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was born in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Her ministries included serving at Siena Heights University as coordinator of the Theological Studies program in the Diocese of Saginaw and as an assistant in alumni relations. She also served on the Congregation’s General Council, as executive director of the National Association of Church Personnel Administrators, as director of leadership formation for the Diocese of Toledo, and for three years in community development at the Northern Free State Institute in Kroonstad, South Africa. [ADS] Dianne Louise Nagypaul, 64, of Riga died on Dec. 11. She was a 1979 graduate of Lakota High School and obtained an accounting degree from Owens Technical Institute and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Lourdes College in 2010. She worked for Toledo Hospital for nearly 30 years, retiring in 2020. She attended Elem3nt Church in Blissfield. [AM]
Dolores Barth, 98, of Adrian died on Dec. 12. She was a 1946 Adrian High School graduate. She worked at Tecumseh Products, retiring in 1993. [W] Bernice Onease Palmer, 93, of Adrian died on Dec. 12. She loved working outdoors and took great pride in her garden. [AM] David L. Ward, 76, of Adrian died on Dec. 12. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He loved being part of the Adrian Street Cruisers and participated in charity events around the area with his cars. [AM] George Eugene Hollstein, 95, of Morenci died on Dec.14. He graduated from Morenci High School in 1950. He served in the Air Force, then went on to a career in farming. He maintained a huge garden every summer and enjoyed reading books about history. He also served as a Little League coach. Marjorie Louise Chambers, 101, died on Dec. 15 at Charlotte Stephenson Manor. She was an Adrian High School graduate and attended Valparaiso University in Indiana, earning a degree in business. After going back to college to get her teaching license, she taught at Prairie and Lincoln elementary schools for 24 years. She was active in the Adrian Garden Club, Delta Kappa Gamma and the American Association for University Women. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. [W]
Terry A. Upcott, 81, of Morenci died on Dec. 15. He worked for General Motors for over 30 years during which time he also earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bob Jones University. He was an active church member throughout his life. [AM]
Margaret “Maggie” Mary Riley, 80, of Adrian died on Dec. 15. She was a graduate of Blissfield High School and later attended Siena Heights University. She dedicated over 30 years to her role as an office manager at a doctor’s office. [AM]
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
This Month in Downtown Adrian:
January
First Friday - Après Ski Friday, January 2nd
Hit the slopes—downtown style! This First Friday, we’re going Après Ski with cozy vibes and cool fun. Enjoy special après-ski–inspired offerings from downtown shops and restaurants, perfect for warming up, shopping local, and kicking back with friends. Grab your coziest gear and join us!
Shop and Stroll- New Year, New You Saturday, January 10th
Join us for Shop & Stroll: New Year, New You and explore downtown with fresh finds, self-care treats, and special offerings from local shops and restaurants. Start the year off right while shopping small and strolling downtown!
Third Thursday- Live Music Thursday, January 15th
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, January 21st
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
downtownadrian
Actor Jeff Daniels collaborating on new restaurant and music venue in Chelsea » PAGE C4 Weber Center in Adrian announces upcoming topics for Lunch and Learn series » PAGE C2
Croswell’s high school cast presents classic musical comedy ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ » PAGE C3
ARTS & LIVING
THE LENAWEE VOICE THIRD SECTION JANUARY 2026
Supporting new music
The ASO’s New Music Society helps remind listeners that classical music is still being written today By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice
ADRIAN — For the Adrian Symphony Orchestra’s 2013-14 season, the ASO was part of a collaboration that commissioned a new work from composer Christopher Theofanidis based on the music of the 12th-century nun Hildegard of Bingen. That commission led to the birth of the ASO’s New Music Society to help fund the composition. Ever since then, the New Music Society has supported some of today’s composers by bringing them and their works to ASO audiences. “It’s really important to remind people that there’s still music being written today,” ASO music director Bruce Anthony Kiesling said. Joining the New Music Society takes a contribution of $50 per person or $100 per couple for the season. The funding supports renting the piece, bringing the composer to Adrian if possible, and the actual performance of the work. One such composition has been programmed every season since the society came into existence. The society’s membership has grown steadily over the years. This season, the number stands at more than 40 individuals or couples. While larger orchestras often have similar societies, “I can’t think of another orchestra our size that does this,” ASO executive director Libby Watson said. Membership includes an invitation to a special members-only event involving the work being supported. Most years, the composer has been able to be present for the event, giving people a unique opportunity to hear from living composers about their lives and their work. And, Watson said, “it’s a neat opportunity for a composer to talk to an engaged audience.”
Composer Gala Flagello, right, alongside Adrian Symphony Orchestra music director Bruce Anthony Kiesling, talks with members of the ASO’s New Music Society during a special event for the society in November. Flagello is one of the composers whose work has been performed by the ASO with support from the New Music Society. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE This season, the society supported a performance of Gala Flagello’s work “Bravado” at the ASO’s November concert. Members got to participate in a Q&A session with Flagello and attend a rehearsal of the piece. During the Q&A, led by Kiesling, Flagello discussed her career, how “Bravado” came about, how it got its name, and what it’s like to hear her music performed live as opposed to hearing it come out of her computer. Kiesling also talked with her about the work’s structure and tempo, noting to the assembled society members that this sort of conversation with a composer isn’t one he generally gets to have.
“It stretches our audience and our musicians alike to hear works being done by living composers with contemporary ideas that are reflective of our times.”
wanted to know how she goes about writing a composition. “Is there any point at which the music writes itself?” one member asked. To some extent, yes, Flagello said, because “music is millions of tiny decisions,” and those decisions make the rest of the piece take shape. For example, — Libby Watson, ASO executive director once she writes the main melody and decides how long it will be, “that informs how I orchestrate the rest of the piece.” “With Tchaikovsky, I don’t check in After some additional conversation, with him,” he joked. Flagello and the group moved into the Flagello, who also had a work auditorium to hear Kiesling and the performed by the ASO two seasons orchestra work through “Bravado,” with ago with support from the New Music Society, then fielded several questions See NEW MUSIC, page C7 from society members, who mostly
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JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
Weber Center announces Lunch and Learn topics for winter and spring ADRIAN — Weber Retreat and Conference Center, located on the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ campus, will begin the year with a new slate of Lunch and Learn topics, from finding truth in today’s world to preparing for spring planting. The Lunch and Learn series is held from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m., once a month on Wednesdays. Upcoming Lunch and Learn sessions and their topics are: Jan. 14 — Finding Truth in Today’s World. Members of the Adrian Dominican Sisters Communications and Finance offices offer tips on how to identify the truth online and how to avoid scams. Feb. 11 — Casseroles and Crockpots. Warm up the cold winter day by sampling three dishes, including pineapple upside-down cake made in a crockpot. Bring your own recipes to share. March 11 — Habitat for Humanity. Wendy Knox, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County, will describe the work of her organization, including the repairs program, home construction, and the 20th anniversary of the ReStore. April 8 — Getting Ready for Spring. Madison Garden Center and Flower Shop, formerly known as Barrett’s Showplace Gardens, offer tips on choosing the right plants for your garden and timing your spring gardening projects.
Weber Center is located on the campus of the Adrian Dominican Sisters on East Siena Heights Drive. Lunch and Learn sessions are free and open to the public. No registration is needed unless ordering lunch. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch, or can purchase a lunch for $8 when registering at least two days in advance. Drinks and dessert will be provided. For more information about Lunch and Learn or other Weber Center programs, call 517-266-4000, or email webercenter@adriandominicans.org. Weber Center is on the campus of the Adrian Dominican Sisters Motherhouse in Adrian, 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive. From Siena Heights Drive, turn into the driveway between Adrian Rea Literacy Center and the solar panel-covered carport and follow the signs to Weber Center.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
ARTS & LIVING | C3
JANUARY 2026
Young actors to stage classic musical comedy “Singin’ in the Rain” is a callback to the early days of cinema ADRIAN — As the Croswell Opera House celebrates its 160th anniversary year, it will begin 2026 with a show that ties together a piece of the theater’s past with a piece of its future. “Singin’ in the Rain,” a stage version of the 1952 musical comedy starring Gene Kelly, is set against the early days of the movie industry as silent pictures gave way to “talkies” in the late 1920s. It’s a nod to the Croswell’s days as a movie theater — but it also looks ahead to the future, because the cast is entirely made up of high school students. For more than 15 years, the Croswell’s annual all-area high school musical has provided an opportunity for top theater students from area schools to come together, work with their peers from other schools, and learn from the Croswell’s professional directors, music directors and choreographers. The first all-area high school show at the Croswell was the musical “Fame” in 2010. “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. Lina Lamont, a silent film star whose voice is ill-suited to the new world of talking pictures, is played
Kai Yuen “Don Lockwood”
Trent Aneed “Cosmo Brown”
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 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;
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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.
Jasmine Hajjar “Kathy Selden”
Carolyn Mohler “Lina Lamont”
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.
C4 | ARTS & LIVING
Tink & the Frog in downtown Adrian plans knitting and crocheting classes for January ADRIAN — Tink & the Frog, a yarn shop in downtown Adrian, is planning several knitting and crocheting classes in January. Learn to Crochet: Two weeks, Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m., beginning Jan. 7. Learn how to hold your hook, make a chain, and work basic stitches. $70; materials included. Learn to Knit: Two weeks, Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m., beginning Jan. 13. Learn to cast on, knit, purl, and bind off — everything you need to begin making cozy, beautiful projects. $70; materials included. Two-at-a-Time Toe-Up Socks: Four weeks, Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m., beginning Jan. 13. For experienced sock knitters ready to level up. Learn efficiency, customization, and perfect yarn usage by knitting two socks at once from the toe up. $120; discount on class materials offered. Knit & Crochet Drop-In Clinics: Thursday, Jan. 15 or Thursday, Jan. 29, from 1-2 p.m. Bring any project or problem and get expert help. $30; materials discount offered. Granny Square Workshop: Saturday, Jan. 17, from 1-3 p.m. Learn how to make the classic granny square and build a skill you’ll use forever. $30; materials discount offered. Granny Square Valentine Workshop: Wednesday, Jan. 21, from noon to 2 p.m. Create a charming granny-square heart while learning shaping and colorwork techniques. Must know the basic granny square. $30; materials discount offered. Knit the Cliveden Hat: Two weeks on Thursdays from 2-4 p.m., beginning Jan. 22. Make a stylish, textured hat while improving your confidence with knitting in the round. $60; materials discount offered. Learn to Fix Knitting Mistakes: Friday, Jan. 30, from noon to 1 p.m. Learn to spot, fix, and prevent common mistakes. $20. Crochet the Houndstooth Hat: Two sessions, Saturdays from 2-4 p.m., beginning Jan. 31. Learn colorwork crochet and make a bold, modern hat. $60, includes pattern and materials discount. Tink & the Frog is located at 128 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian. For more information, call 517-759-3990 or go to tinkandfrogyarnshop.com.
JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
‘Vessels’ opens Jan. 17 at Flatlanders BLISSFIELD — Flatlanders Art Galleries will present “Vessels,” an exhibit by still life painter Steve Mockensturm, from Jan. 17 to Feb. 28. An opening reception with the artist is planned for Sunday, Jan. 18, from 1-3 p.m. Mockensturm is a self-taught painter living and working in northwest Ohio. He has a background in electronics engineering, has hitchhiked across America, and plays the piano and guitar. Describing this exhibit, Mockensturm stated: “The prop shelf of a still life painter is littered with vessels. Cups, bowls, vases and jugs. These objects possess both a complete emptiness and the capacity to carry and share. Decorative or plain, a vessel is often made for (and by) a human hand. They do also appear in nature. The blood vessel, your bladder, fruits and flowers that contain and distribute their own future. I’m sure there’s a poem or a
Flatlanders Art Galleries operate in conjunction with Flatlanders Sculpture Supply, a full-service sculpture resource. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Flatlanders is located just east of Blissfield, at 11993 East U.S. 223. For more information, go to flatlandersculpture.com or call 517-486-4591.
ART EXHIBITS
A piece from Steve Mockensturm’s upcoming exhibit at Flatlanders Art Galleries near Blissfield. song somewhere about a human vessel. The Holy Grail? It’s a vessel. Honestly, I don’t consider a lot of this when I set up shiny stuff on a shelf. The shapes do get quite seductive under the light. But mostly I want these everyday objects to look like something you’d want to hold and feel. To carry. To share.”
Rooting Around at Lindisfarne: The Adrian Center for the Arts will present “Rooting Around at Lindisfarne,” an exhibit created using found objects from the grounds of Lindisfarne Bridge, an 80-acre woodland in Tipton. Exhibit dates are Jan. 12 to Feb. 22., with a reception on Sunday, Feb. 22, from 2-4 p.m. ACA gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The Adrian Center for the Arts is located at 1375 N. Main St. For more information, call 517-759-3005 or go to adriancenterforthearts.org.
JD’s Stage Bistro, a new spot for music and food, plans spring opening in downtown Chelsea CHELSEA — JD’s Stage Bistro, currently under construction at 117½ N. Main St. in downtown Chelsea, aims to be a world-class music venue with exceptional food and a welcoming space for gatherings with family and friends. It is being developed by Tannin Property Group, a local firm, in partnership with Jeff Daniels, the actor, musician and playwright who founded Chelsea’s Purple Rose Theatre. Daniels, along with his son, Ben, and wife, Amanda, joined the project to help create a world-class music venue that would attract local, regional, and nationally recognized singer-songwriters while setting a new standard for sound quality, according to a news release. On the culinary side, Chef Nate Wegryn, formerly of Echelon Kitchen and The Dixboro Project, will feature an inspired contemporary menu, working with many local farmers and suppliers. The 100-seat restaurant will feature a wood-fired pizza oven, cocktail bar, patio seating, and multiple private event spaces. The event spaces will cater to small to mid-sized community gatherings and private celebrations. The team is aiming to create a music venue, bistro, and event space
This rendering shows the plans for the restaurant portion of JD’s Stage Bistro, slated for an opening this spring in downtown Chelsea. designed to reflect Chelsea’s culture and love of the arts. Lead designer Aaron Vermeulen said the idea has been in the works for two decades. “Bringing a 20-year-old dream to life involves imagination and the careful shaping of physical space,” he said. “It all started with an old door on Main Street. I pictured a marquee overhead, its exposed bulbs glowing like the theaters of a century ago. I knew it would take an entire team, from a meticulous door maker to a supportive community with a shared vision, to
make this project possible. Partnering with Jeff Daniels, our goal is simple: evoke old memories to create new ones, using design that honors Chelsea’s past while setting the stage for exceptional music.” Art and storytelling will run through every space. JD’s Stage Bistro will showcase a growing collection of Chelsea historical artifacts, music memorabilia, and tributes to Jeff Daniels’ career. More information is available at jdsstagebistro.com.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
JANUARY 2026
JANUARY 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.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 2 Adrian First Fridays Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m. “Apres-Ski” is the theme of this month’s Adrian First Fridays event downtown. downtownadrian.com
Card and Collectible Show Lifes Little Moments Event Center, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All types of cards and collectibles, including sports and Pokémon cards, will be for sale. Also seeking vendors. Email secondtimesacharm24@gmail.com for information. 6370 Palmyra Road, Palmyra
TUESDAY, JANUARY 6 History and Stories of the Adrian City Fire Department Lenawee County Historical Museum, 6 p.m. The Lenawee County Family Researchers will welcome Lt. Jeff Betz to present the history of Adrian’s fire department, which was established on June 19, 1841. Betz has been collecting its stories and history for many years. His firefighting career includes 23 years with the Madison Township department and 26 years with the city. For more information, contact Judy Sheldon at 989-984-9305. 110 E. Church St., Adrian
SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 New Beginnings Group Trail Run Heritage Park, 9 a.m. to noon A group get-together for anyone new to trail running, or for those who just want to be in community out on the trails in nature. Ultrarunner and coach Courtney Wolfe wants to help people feel empowered, confident and joyful out on the trail. Meet 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 517-261-5468
Bridal Expo Adrian College Tobias Center, 1-4 p.m. More than 40 vendors will be at the expo, including photographers, florists, caterers, bridal boutiques, DJs, and decor experts. $7. 110 S. Madison St., Adrian midmichiganbridalexpo.com
Science with Bill Tiede Schultz-Holmes District Library, 6-7 p.m. An educational night of science fun for all ages. 407 S. Lane St., Blissfield blissfieldlibrary.org 517-486-2858
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 Dungeons and Dragons for Young Adventurers Tecumseh District Library, 3-5 p.m. Come join us as we learn to play Dungeons and Dragons. No prior knowledge of D&D or role-playing games is expected, and all are welcome. This program is designed for younger players, primarily ages 10-15. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh tecumsehlibrary.org or 517-423-2238
Nature Narratives: Reading the River Book Club Musgrove + Company, 6 p.m. River Raisin Watershed Council and Musgrove + Company’s Reading the River Book Club explores books that deepen our connection to the natural world and inspire stewardship within our local watershed and beyond. The first selection, “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer, invites readers to experience the wisdom of reciprocity between people and the earth. All are welcome; offered in-person or virtually. Free, but please plan to purchase a drink. To learn more and register, visit riverraisin.org/bookclub. 135 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Live2Lead Align Center for Workforce Development, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Live2Lead is a half-day leadership and personal growth event hosted by The John Maxwell Company and featuring speakers Craig Groeschel, Tiffani Bova, Jesse Cole, Valorie Burton and John C. Maxwell. Organized locally by Bill Kenyon. $140, or $1,000 for table of eight. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales this year will benefit HOPE Community Center. 440 E. Church St., Adrian billkenyon.com/live2lead 517-403-1762
Maumee Street Music Jam First Presbyterian Church of Adrian, 6 p.m. An acoustic music jam for instruments such as dulcimer, guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, whistle, accordion, fiddle, harmonica, marimba, bones and more meets on the second Saturday of every month, September through May, at First Presbyterian Church in Adrian. Enter through the side door. 156 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-270-2870
SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 Love in Bloom Bridal Expo Madison Garden Center & Flower Shop, 1-3 p.m. Madison Garden Center’s second annual Love In Bloom Wedding Expo features a curated selection of the best local wedding vendors as well as giveaways. $5. 1033 W. Beecher St., Adrian info@barrettsadrian.com 517-263-2660
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14 Lunch and Learn: Finding Truth in Today’s World Weber Center, 12:15 p.m. Members of the Adrian Dominican Sisters Communications and Finance offices offer tips for identifying truth online and avoiding scams. Free and open to the public. Bring your lunch (drinks and dessert provided) or purchase lunch from Weber Center for $8 (choice of egg salad, chicken salad, or turkey and cheese croissant sandwich with chips) by registering at least two days in advance of the event. 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org 517-423-6617
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 Third Thursday Live Music Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m. Come downtown and enjoy live music at your favorite downtown spots on the third Thursday of every month.
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C6 | ARTS & LIVING THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 The Challenges and Opportunities of Living with AI Weber Retreat & Conference Center, 7 to 8:30 p.m. What are the challenges and opportunities of living with artificial intelligence? Algorithms influence our lives every day, and local communities have rising concerns about the harmful environmental and economic impacts of these technologies. Yet advanced algorithms are also contributing to important scientific breakthroughs, especially in medicine. This event will discuss Christian and Catholic reflections on technology, on creation, and on how our shared social world might help communities begin to recognize the challenges and opportunities of AI in an increasingly algorithmic society. $25; sign up by Jan. 14. 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org 517-423-6617
FRIDAY, JANUARY 16
JANUARY 2026 THE LENAWEE VOICE
ROBINSON PLANETARIUM SHOWS Robinson Planetarium on the campus of Adrian College will present “Michigan’s Winter Skies,” a free show, at 7 p.m. on four Fridays in January. Show dates are Jan. 9, 16, 23, and 30. Guests should enter through the northeast Williams Street entrance of Peelle Hall. Directional signs will guide visitors to the entrance. The planetarium offers 68 theaterstyle seats and recommends arriving 10 to 15 minutes early for preferred seating. On-street parking is available on Williams Street. For more information, contact Robinson Planetarium director Mark Fairclough at 517-265-5161, ext. 4788, or email mfairclough@adrian.edu.
MONDAY, JANUARY 19
SATURDAY, JANUARY 31
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration
Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Michigan
Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bundle up and bring the family for a weekend of frosty fun in downtown Tecumseh. Wander the streets and marvel at over 45 dazzling ice sculptures, each one a unique work of art. Feeling adventurous? Take part in the Downtown Scavenger Hunt for your chance to win a gift card prize pack while discovering all the sculptures and local shops along the way. Continues Saturday. downtowntecumseh.com
Adrian College Tobias Center, 1 p.m. The keynote speaker for this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration is Dr. Leland Harper, associate professor of philosophy and race, justice and equity studies at Siena Heights University. Tickets: $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight. For more information, contact Andre’a Benard at 517-673-1218 or Pamela Hall at 517-920-2706. 110 Madison St., Adrian
Eagles Nest Bar & Grill, 12:30 p.m. Check-in and pre-plunge at 12:30 p.m.; plunge into Clark Lake through a hole cut by the Columbia Township Fire Department at 2 p.m. After-splash bash and awards following the plunge. 1200 Eagle Pointe Road, Clarklake eaglesnestclarklake.com 517-529-7116
Winter Glam
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21
Tecumseh Ice Sculpture Festival
Tecumseh Carnegie Library, 6-8 p.m. A fun winter evening painting a winter scene, which will also include some glitter fun. All ages welcome (participants under 14 must be with a parent or guardian). Event by Danielle Emrick Designs, sponsored by the Tecumseh Carnegie Preservation League, a nonprofit devoted to saving the Tecumseh Carnegie Library building. $40. 304 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh tecumsehcarnegie.org danielle_emrickds@outlook.com 734-740-6102
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 Tecumseh Ice Sculpture Festival Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bundle up and bring the family for a weekend of frosty fun in downtown Tecumseh. Wander the streets and marvel at over 45 dazzling ice sculptures, each one a unique work of art. Feeling adventurous? Take part in the Downtown Scavenger Hunt for your chance to win a gift card prize pack while discovering all the sculptures and local shops along the way. downtowntecumseh.com
What’s Happenin’ Wednesday Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m. A monthly event spotlighting downtown Adrian’s service businesses.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Baskets of Love Silent Auction Onsted High School, 5-7 p.m. Onsted Kiwanis presents a silent auction before the varsity basketball game, with proceeds benefiting the Onsted Kiwanis 5th Grade Scholarship. 10109 Slee Road, Onsted onstedkiwanis.org
SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Book Sale Lenawee District Library, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Featuring gently used books, puzzles, DVDs, magazines and more. 4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian
Strike Out Homelessness Rich Lanes Bowling Alley, 5 p.m. An evening of fun and fundraising to support Share the Warmth. Registration is $150 for a team of five, including three games, shoes, and the opportunity to win door prizes. Event also includes a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. Register at stwlenawee.org. 622 W. Adrian St., Blissfield
Big Game Banquet River Raisin Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Adrian College Tobias Center, 4 p.m. A benefit for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, working to ensure the preservation of elk and other wildlife as well as our hunting heritage. Includes dinner, raffles, and more. $50. Tickets available at tickets.rmef.org/s/13495. For more information, contact Jill Settles at 517-605-1937 or settlesj@icloud.com. 110 S. Madison St.. Adrian rmef.org
‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m. Opening night of the Croswell Opera House’s annual all-area high school musical. Adults $12 to $25, students $25. Continues Sunday and next weekend. 129 E. Maumee St, Adrian croswell.org
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m. The Croswell Opera House’s annual all-area high school musical. Adults $12 to $25, students $25. Continues next weekend. 129 E. Maumee St, Adrian croswell.org
LIVE MUSIC AT BARS AND NIGHT SPOTS Information in this listing is taken from a mixture of submissions and information published by the venues. We recommend verifying information before making plans. To submit listings, email lcline@lenaweevoice. com before the 15th of the preceding month. SATURDAY, JANUARY 3 Snyder & Rutter, 4-7 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. Stevie Ray Vaughan Tribute by Cold Shot, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com. FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 Orlando Finelli, 6-9 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. Public Scene, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave, Tipton. Steely Dan Tribute by Major Dudes, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy. Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com. SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 Paramore Tribute by After Laughter with Flowers on the Grave, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. chateauaeronautiquewinery.com. FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 Brad Skinner Jazz Trio, 6-9 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. Elton John Tribute by Captain Fantastic Detroit, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com. SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 REO Speedwagon Tribute by Detroit Speedwagon, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. chateauaeronautiquewinery.com Leadfoot, 7-11 p.m., Jerry’s Pub, 650 Egan Hwy., Brooklyn. THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 Nicholas James and the Bandwagon, fundraiser for the Brooklyn Food Pantry, 6-10 p.m., Jerry’s Pub, 650 Egan Hwy., Brooklyn. Call 517-467-4700 for reservations; dinner seating is at 6 p.m. with music at 7:30 p.m. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23 Jon B. Roth, 6-9 p.m, The Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. JTE, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave, Tipton. Fleetwood Mac Tribute by Seven Wonders, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com SATURDAY, JANUARY 24 Creed Tribute by Higher, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. chateauaeronautiquewinery.com SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 Liveo travels to Michigan, 7-11 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave, Tipton. Bad Mojo, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher, Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.
THE LENAWEE VOICE
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JANUARY 2026
Gala Flagello gives some notes to the orchestra after the first run-through of her piece “Bravado” at a New Music Society event in November. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE
New music from page C1 Flagello providing some notes after the first run-through. “They sound awesome,” she said in an interview a short time later. “Bruce took the piece faster than I intended, and I think that makes the piece really shine.” Flagello said that the ASO’s New Music Society is a great experience for composers like her, and something that’s fairly unique. “This is very special,” she said. “As composers we’re writing history. What we do is so based in the now, and the New Music Society has an important role. “… What’s special here is the direct engagement from audience members. An orchestra is for the community in which it’s based, and being able to peek behind the curtain, literally and figuratively, is what’s fun about it.” Watson said in an interview that while commissions for composers “get the glitzy opening” when an orchestra premieres their work, “it can be tough to get a second performance.” That’s where a group like the New Music Society comes in: by making it possible for the ASO to perform something like Flagello’s “Bravado,” it helps ensure that the piece gets more performances than just the premiere. Not only is the performance itself supported, but when the composer is present, ASO patrons get to be up close and personal with someone who’s engaged in writing music today. “It’s a chance to be part of something special,” Watson said.
The musicians themselves also benefit from having the composer present, she added, because the works might be so new that there aren’t recordings for them to listen to as they prepare for the concert. “It stretches our audience and our musicians alike to hear works being done by living composers with contemporary ideas that are reflective of our times,” she said. Kiesling hopes to build relationships with composers in the same way that he’s had several guest artists return to perform, with the aim of perhaps being part of commissioning a new work from one of them. He likes the fact that, thanks to the society, the fees paid to perform a piece of music go to help support a living composer. And by being able to have a composer actually come to interact with the ASO’s audiences and musicians, “they can see composers as real people,” he said. “The music becomes a living, breathing thing.” In addition to Flagello and Theofanidis, the composer whose work sparked the New Music Society’s creation, other composers who have had pieces played by the ASO specifically thanks to the society include George S. Clinton, Michael Daugherty, Conni Ellisor, Jennifer Higdon, Russell Peck, Michael Torke, and Dai Wei. “I look back at more than a decade of the New Music Society,” Watson said, and what started out in the 2013-14 season as “a question of commissioning a piece and ‘how were we going to pay for it’ turned into something beautiful.”
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