The Lenawee Voice — June 2025

Palmyra Speedway a spot for family fun and competition » PAGE B1

Former Brazeway CEO launches app to help students explore careers » PAGE C1

THE LENAWEE VOICE

Lost World War II veteran is finally laid to rest

» PAGE A7

Onsted natives celebrate two centennials and one lifelong friendship

» PAGE B2

Bar Association presents first Liberty Bell Award

» PAGE B8

JUNE

Farm museum plans take a big step forward

The American Farm Museum and Education Center is planning to move into the former Hathaway House restaurant in Blissfield

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

BLISSFIELD — The recent sale of the Hathaway House property in Blissfield promises to both revive a beloved historical landmark and bring a longtime dream to fruition.

The American Farm Museum and Education Center, a local nonprofit, announced in May that it has reached an agreement to lease the property from its new owner, and that the Hathaway House will be the new home of the Charles and Barbara Burkholder Farm Toy Collection.

That collection, which has been in storage for the past decade, was the original impetus for forming the American Farm Museum and Education Center.

See MJSEUM, page A15

NOTICIAS EN ESPAÑOL

La clínica dice que los recortes de Medicaid serían devastadores » PÁGINA A11 Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad celebrará las contribuciones hispanas y latinas » PÁGINA A12

Pictured in front of the Hathaway House in Blissfield are American Farm Museum and Education Center board members Londa Pickles, Randy Brenke, Melissa Tsuji, Ted Mason, and Pete Durbin. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Randy Brenke, a board member of the American Farm Museum and Education Center, shows a portion of the Charles and Barbara Burkholder Farm Toy Collection, which will be displayed in the former Hathaway House restaurant in Blissfield.

IN BRIEF

JROTC program to be offered

ADRIAN — Adrian Public Schools will begin offering a U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program in the 2026-27 school year.

JROTC is a 180-hour-per-year youth citizen program that provides opportunities in civics, leadership, teamwork, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The program will be available to students in both APS and other Lenawee districts.

Union agreements ratified

ADRIAN — Wage agreements with three collective bargaining groups were ratified at the Adrian school board’s May 12 meeting.

Members of the Adrian Administrators Association, which represents principals and other building administrators, will see a 2% increase in their salary schedule next school year, and employees who are eligible for step increases will receive those as well.

Building administrative assistants will see a 2% increase in their pay schedule and will also receive a $500 off-schedule stipend before June 30 of this year.

Members of the International Union of Operating Engineers, which represents maintenance staff, will also see a 2% increase in their pay schedule plus a $500 off-schedule stipend.

Superintendent Nate Parker said the off-schedule stipends reflect the fact that Adrian Public Schools wants to take care of its employees and that the district is in a good enough financial position this year to be able to offer that additional pay. Making it a one-time stipend to be paid before June 30 means it will affect the current fiscal year and will not represent an additional commitment going into the new fiscal year, which holds some uncertainties.

Former pastor’s child abuse trial set for December

ADRIAN — A weeklong trial beginning Dec. 9 has been set for the former pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Adrian on one charge of criminal sexual conduct, according to Lenawee Voice news partner Local Buzz Radio. In addition, pretrial hearings have been scheduled for July 16 on six additional abuse counts that he faces. Michael Goble, 76, remains lodged in the Lenawee County Jail. He is accused of abusing boys at the Maurice Spear Campus and at his home.

Former teacher sentenced

ADRIAN — A former Adrian High School band director has been sentenced to 11¼ to 50 years in prison for each of four counts of criminal sexual conduct, Local Buzz Radio reported. Aaron Mykeloff, 50, must also remain on the Michigan Sex Offender Registry and be subject to electronic monitoring for life. The offenses began in May 2022 and were unconnected to his job at the school.

Dee Warner’s family files suit

ADRIAN — The family of Dee Warner has filed a $100 million wrongful death lawsuit against her husband, Dale Warner, who is accused of killing her in 2021. The family’s attorney said the suit is designed to put a freeze on any further spending of funds in her estate. The lawsuit is separate from the criminal case against Dale Warner, which is scheduled to go to trial in September.

IN BRIEF

New city clerk hired

ADRIAN — The Adrian City Commission on May 19 approved acting administrator Vince Emrick’s recommendation to hire April Hamann, a current city employee who previously served as deputy clerk for Raisin Township, as the new city clerk.

Commissioner Bob Behnke asked if Hamann was the applicant who Local Buzz Radio reported had been interviewed despite applying after the deadline, and Mayor Angela Sword Heath said she was not.

Commissioner Mary Roberts cited customer service and organizational skills in saying she believes Hamann is a good choice for the job.

The vote was 5-1, with Gordon Gauss voting no. Gauss declined to comment on his vote.

Company proposes tower on water plant property

ADRIAN — City utilities director Will Sadler told city commissioners on May 19 that he has been approached by a company interested in placing an 180-foot cell tower on the Adrian water treatment plant property off Bent Oak Highway. The company is offering $120,000 up front for a 50-year lease or a similar schedule of monthly payments. Commissioners asked Sadler to look into the proposal further.

Back in the Maple City and ready to make a difference

Lisa Hewitt-Cruz, Adrian’s new community development director, is no stranger to City Hall

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — For Lisa Hewitt-Cruz, being appointed the City of Adrian’s new community development director led to a really funny twist in her story.

Back in 1996, Hewitt-Cruz, a Sand Creek native, took her first job with the city, that time as housing and community development administrative specialist. She came to that position after nine years working in rural development for the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture in its Adrian office. When that office closed due to downsizing, she had two young children and decided against the long commute her new location would entail.

And so, that first stint with the city — during which, among other accomplishments, she secured and administered more than $13 million in grants for housing stabilization, created a rental inspection program, and helped found both the Boys and Girls Club in Adrian and the Lenawee Housing

Development Corp. — went onto her resume.

In 2005, with her children now older, Hewitt-Cruz decided she wanted to go back to work for USDA Rural Development, this time based in Lansing as a multi-family housing specialist. Over the next almost 20 years, she rose through the USDA ranks in Tennessee and Michigan until finally serving as a Rural Development branch chief.

That last position brought the Sand Creek native and her husband, Jesse, who’s now a retired operating engineer, back to Adrian about six years ago — a move which she readily admits was because the couple wanted to be nearer to their grandchildren, now 13 and 6. She retired from the USDA in 2024 and then, in late April of this year, came See HEWITT-CRUZ, page A13

Lisa Hewitt-Cruz was recently hired as the city of Adrian’s community development director. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

Riverview Terrace rentals hampered by change in income limits

ADRIAN — Riverview Terrace, the apartment complex at 400 College Ave. for low-income senior citizens and people with disabilities, is still only at about 50 percent capacity after reopening at the end of 2024. Representatives of Medallion Management, which operates Riverview Terrace, addressed the Adrian City Commission at its May 19 meeting.

Before the building was closed for major structural repairs in 2022, the maximum income to rent an apartment was 60% of Area Median Income for all units. Now, Nancy DeFrancesco told the commission, only 10% of the units are at that level, while 90% of them must be

ROLL CALL

Following are selected votes taken by Lenawee County’s federal and state elected officials between April 25 and May 28.

U.S. SENATE

Michigan is represented by Sens. Gary Peters (D) and Elissa Slotkin (D).

H.J. Res. 42: A resolution to disapprove Biden-era Department of Energy rules on energy efficiency standards for appliances. The measure passed, 52-46. Peters and Slotkin voted no.

S.J. Res. 49: A resolution to terminate President Donald Trump’s declaration of a national emergency to grant himself power to impose tariffs. The measure failed, 49-49. Peters and Slotkin voted yes.

S. Res. 195: A resolution requesting information on El Salvador’s human rights practices.

POLICE REPORTS

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

ADDISON AREA

April 25: Telephone harassment or threats, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

April 30: Drug possession, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

May 4: Property damage, 8300 block of North U.S. 127.

May 12: Assault, 200 block of West Main Street.

May 18: Assault, 300 block of South Talbot Street.

ADRIAN AREA

April 25: Assault, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Telephone harassment or threats, 900 block of Treat Street. Drug possession, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 1000 block of East Maumee Street.

April 26: Assault, Division and Frank streets. Larceny from a building, 100 block of East Church Street. Assault, 1000 block of South Winter Street.

April 27: Assault, 400 block of Toledo Street. Property damage, 1000 block of North Broad Street. Assault, 1000 block of West U.S. 223. Property damage, 600 block of Riverside Avenue.

April 28: Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 900 block of East Beecher Street. Assault, 1100 block of Frank Street. Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Drug possession, Addison and Chestnut streets.

April 29: Assault, 100 block of Dawes Street.

April 30: Disorderly conduct, State and Beecher streets. Larceny from a vehicle, 1100 block of North Main Street. Identity theft and illegal credit card use, 1200 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East

rented by people with incomes lower than 50% of the median.

That means that, for the vast majority of apartments, the maximum income level allowed in order to rent is $23,400 rather than $26,730. As a result, fewer people are eligible to rent.

This change was a requirement of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority funding that was used to make the repairs, according to Scott Beltz, another Medallion representative.

The city of Adrian has an arrangement with Medallion Management to accept a Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) and a service agreement payment instead of traditional property taxes. Beltz said

The measure failed, 45-50. Peters and Slotkin voted yes.

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

All of Lenawee County is in the 5th Congressional District, represented by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Tipton).

H.R. 276: A bill to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The bill passed, 211-206. Walberg voted yes.

H.R. 2243: A bill to broaden the authority for certain law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms across state lines; to allow qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms in school zones, in national parks, and on various other public properties; and to reduce the frequency with which retired law enforcement officers must meet qualification standards. The bill passed, 229-193. Walberg voted yes.

U.S. 223. Illegal credit card use, 400 block of West Maumee Street.

May 1: Larceny from a vehicle, 500 block of Lenawee Street. Assault, South Main and U.S. 223. Assault, 1100 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 200 block of West Maumee Street.

May 2: Assault, 1100 block of Williams Street.

May 3: Assault, Center and Erie streets. Identity theft, 800 block of East Maple Avenue.

May 4: Vehicle theft, 100 block of Seeley Street. Assault, 500 block of East Maumee Street.

May 5: Assault, 800 block of Vine Street. Assault, 300 block of Erie Street. Property damage, 300 block of Budlong Street. Assault, 500 block of East Church Street. Disorderly conduct, 1100 block of South Main Street.

May 6: Sexual assault, 200 block of Division Street. Assault, 100 block of Dawes Street. Drug possession, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Drug possession, 700 block of Riverside Avenue.

May 7: Burglary (residential, no forced entry), 1000 block of East Church Street. Larceny, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, Bent Oak and Riverside. Illegal credit card use, Locust and Maumee streets. Illegal credit card use, 400 block of Feeman Court.

May 8: Assault, 1300 block of Lowe Avenue. Assault, 300 block of Erie Street. Illegal credit card use, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Retail fraud, 800 block of South Main Street. Disorderly conduct, 300 block of Erie Street. Sexual assault, 800 block of College Avenue.

May 9: Assault, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Disorderly conduct, 3400 block of Treat Highway. Assault, 300 block of Erie Street. Larceny from a yard, 1300 block of Division Street.

May 10: Assault, 600 block of Treat Street. Assault, 7200 block of South Adrian Highway. Assault, Center and Erie streets. Disorderly conduct, 200 block of South Tecumseh Street.

that because rentals didn’t begin until the end of 2024 and the building is still only about half rented, it would be very difficult for the company to make the service agreement payment at the end of June. He said that he wanted to be completely up-front with the city about the situation, and asked the commission to consider delaying implementation of the service agreement by a year. The PILOT is not an issue because it is based on the apartment complex’s revenue, he said.

Riverview Terrace reopened in late 2024, more than two years after severe structural problems forced it to be closed and its residents to relocate.

MICHIGAN SENATE

Most of Lenawee County is in the 16th Senate district, represented by Sen. Joe Bellino (R-Monroe). The city of Tecumseh, Tecumseh Township, and Clinton Township are in the 15th Senate District, represented by Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor).

S.B. 234: A bill to require Michigan schools to implement policies limiting student cell phone use during school hours starting in the 2025-26 school year. The bill passed, 28-9. Irwin voted yes. Bellino voted no.

S.B. 257-261: Bills extending the amount of time that victims of sexual abuse have to file civil lawsuits and allowing some past claims to be revived, and related actions. The bills passed, 25-9. Irwin voted yes. Bellino voted no.

Senate Resolution 50: A resolution urging full federal funding of Medicaid. The resolution passed, 2113. Irwin voted yes. Bellino voted no.

May 11: Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. May 11: Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 1000 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 500 block of Meadowbrook Drive. Assault, 1000 block of East Maumee Street.

May 12: Property damage, 800 block of West Maumee Street. Larceny from a building, 1100 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 100 block of Maumee Court. Burglary (nonresidential, forced entry) and larceny from a building, 1200 block of East U.S. 223.

May 13: Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Assault, 1100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 400 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 300 block of Comstock Street. Assault, 600 block of South Madison Street.

May 14: Assault, 400 block of March Drive. Assault, 300 block of Merrick Street. Assault, 4800 block of Ogden Highway. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Disorderly conduct, 1100 block of East U.S. 223.

May 15: Operating while intoxicated, Logan and Division streets. Property damage, vehicle theft, and larceny from a vehicle, 1100 block of Canterbury Drive. Assault and burglary (residential, forced entry), 600 block of South Madison Street. Assault, 500 block of North Winter Street. Wire fraud, 1400 block of South Main Street. Sexual assault, 600 block of Frank Street. Property damage, 1000 block of Division Street. Identity theft, 600 block of St. Joseph Street. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street.

May 16: Fraud, 700 block of East Hunt Street. Assault, 1200 block of South Main Street. Telephone harassment or threats, 4700 block of Hooks Mill Drive.

May 17: Assault, 600 block of North Dean Street.

May 18: Assault, 600 block of Company Street. Assault, 600 block of South Madison Street.

May 19: Illegal credit card use, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway.

MICHIGAN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Most of Lenawee County is in the 34th House District, represented by Rep. Nancy JenkinsArno (R-Clayton). Parts of the Britton and Deerfield areas are in the 30th District, represented by Rep. William Bruck (R-Erie). Macon Township is in the 31st District, represented by Rep. Reggie Miller (D-Van Buren Twp.). The city of Hudson is in the 35th District, represented by Rep. Jennifer Wortz (R-Quincy).

H.B. 4027 and 4028: These bills would reverse a law passed during the previous session that limited local governments’ ability to restrict renewable energy installations. The bill passed, 58-48. Jenkins-Arno, Bruck, and Wortz voted yes. Miller voted no.

H.B. 4066: A bill to require schools to designate athletic teams based on biological sex and prohibit

Operating while intoxicated, 1200 block of South Main Street.

May 20: Vehicle theft, 800 block of Missouri River Drive. Illegal credit card use, 200 block of Ironwood Court. Larceny from a vehicle, 400 block of Raisin RIver Drive. Sexual assault, 400 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

May 21: Larceny from a yard, 1000 block of Scottdale Drive.

May 22: Assault and larceny, Butler and Addison streets.

May 23: Fraud, 1400 block of West Beecher Road. Identity theft, 2300 block of Howell Highway. Property damage, 100 block of Canterbury Street. Property damage, 400 block of Clinton Street.

BLISSFIELD AREA

May 23: Vehicle theft, 600 block of South Jipson Street.

BRITTON AREA

May 7: Property damage, 200 block of College Avenue.

CLAYTON AREA

May 5: Property damage, 12900 block of West Cadmus Road.

May 18: Larceny, Glen Hill Highway and Forrister Road.

May 19: Burglary (non-residential, no forced entry), 6600 block of Tomer Road.

MADISON TWP.

April 27: Property damage, Baldwin Highway and Beecher Road.

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

May 2: Fraud, 1400 block of East U.S. 223. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

May 3: Assault, 2800 block of Park Drive. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

May 5: Larceny, 5100 block of Sand Creek Highway.

May 6: Property damage, 2900 block of Treat Highway.

May 7: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

people assigned male at birth from being part of female teams. Currently, the Michigan High School Athletic Association allows transgender students to request a waiver to compete, and told the legislature earlier this year that there are currently two students in the state playing sports under one of these waivers. The bill passed, 58-46. Jenkins-Arno, Bruck, and Wortz voted yes. Miller voted no.

H.B. 4233: A bill to restrict foreign ownership of agricultural land in Michigan. The bill passed, 63-47. Jenkins-Arno, Bruck, Miller and Wortz all voted yes.

H.B. 4338: A bill to prohibit local governments from limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The bill passed, 58-48. Jenkins-Arno, Bruck, and Wortz voted yes. Miller voted no.

May 8: Telephone harassment or threats, 3900 block of Treat Highway.

May 9: Sexual assault, 3400 block of Treat Highway.

May 11: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

May 12: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Assault less than murder, 3100 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

May 14: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Larceny from a vehicle, 2200 block of Tayer Road. Illegal credit card use, 1000 block of West U.S. 223.

May 17: Assault, 2500 block of Woodridge Drive.

May 18: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

May 22: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

MORENCI AREA

May 9: Operating while intoxicated, Ridgeville Road and Ingall Highway.

ONSTED AREA

May 3: Larceny from a vehicle, 200 block of South Main Street.

RIDGEWAY TWP.

May 18: Property damage, 8400 block of Laberdee Road.

ROLLIN TWP.

May 22: Assault, 1300 block of Round Lake Highway.

TECUMSEH AREA

May 28: Wire fraud, 1200 block of West Russell Road.

May 29: Property damage, 100 block of West Pottawatamie Street.

May 3: Operating while intoxicated, West Pottawatamie and South Maiden Lane.

May 4: Operating while intoxicated, M-50 and Hendershot Highway.

May 9: Larceny from a vehicle, 100 block of East Logan Street.

May 12: Assault, 1200 block of West Chicago Boulevard.

May 13: Wire fraud, 100 block of Evans Creek Drive. Vehicle theft, Milwaukee Road and Billmyer Highway.

Riverview Terrace is at 400 College Ave.

County commission hears report on Kiwanis Trail finances

ADRIAN — Higher-than-expected costs for a recent project that extended the Kiwanis Trail all the way to Tecumseh resulted in the Kiwanis Regional Trail Authority owing about $180,000 to the government of Lenawee County.

The Kiwanis Trail authority, a consortium of four local governments and the Kiwanis Club of Adrian, was founded to administer the 12-mile trail that runs from Adrian to Tecumseh. Trail authority chairman Dusty Steele addressed county commissioners at a May 13 meeting. He said the shortfall resulted from several unanticipated cost increases that came after the fundraising drive for the trail extension.

One of those was that an easement was obtained that allowed for a much more desirable route for the trail than was originally planned, from both an attractiveness and a safety standpoint. However, following that more desirable route resulted in some cost increases. In addition, the cost of engineering oversight was not included in the original project estimate but was a requirement of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant that helped pay for the project.

Steele noted that $381,735 in private money was raised from more than 250 donors, demonstrating public support for the trail.

Steele said the trail authority does not want to avoid responsibility for the overrun. However, he said that the authority only has a fund balance of about $150,000, and he asked county commissioners if they would be willing to consider some ways of lessening the blow.

The ideas the Kiwanis Trail Authority proposed were:

n A partial forgiveness of the shortfall.

n A multi-year repayment plan that would prevent the authority from having to pay the entire amount all at once,

n Giving the county a seat on the Kiwanis Trail Authority board, and thus a role in its governance, but without any obligation to pay into the authority the way that the four municipalities and the Kiwanis Club do.

Steele said having to pay the entire $180,000 shortfall right away would hurt the Kiwanis Regional Trail Authority’s ability to pursue future projects for the trail’s improvement. Those projects include:

n Repairing and rehabilitating timber bridges along the trail that are developing structural issues due to their age.

n Repairing sections of the trail asphalt that have severe cracking due to age and underlying soil conditions.

n Upgrading signage along the trail.

n Improving road crossings with pavement markings, vehicular signage, and warning features to improve safety.

n Supporting the city of Adrian’s efforts to extend the trail to the east side of Adrian via the planned M-52 tunnel.

n Developing plans for potential connections to the trail such as the Hickman Hospital campus, Heritage Park, the village of Clinton, and other locations throughout the county.

n Researching long-term sustainable funding options to support a trail system in Lenawee County.

County commissioner Kevon Martis (R-Riga) said that he and Dustin Krasny (R-Onsted) and Jim Van Doren (R-Tipton) met previously with Steele to discuss the situation. He said that although they are only three commissioners out of nine and can’t speak for everyone, the multi-year repayment idea was the one they felt was the most viable.

“I appreciate, and I know we all appreciate, your whole team and your commitment to this community,” Martis said to Steele.

The Kiwanis Regional Trail Authority was incorporated in 2020 and consists of representatives from the city of Adrian, Adrian Township, Raisin Township, and the city of Tecumseh, as well as the Kiwanis Club of Adrian.

The city of Adrian contributes $50,000 per year toward trail maintenance, and the other four municipalities and the Kiwanis Club contribute $12,500 each.

Van Doren, who is the commission chairman, said he knows how important trails like the Kiwanis Trail are to communities, and doesn’t want to see anything happen to it. He also noted that the trail is only a few miles away from potentially being able to link up to Washtenaw County’s trail system.

“If we could come up with some sort of solution for the repayment that doesn’t hurt the Kiwanis Trail moving into the future, we all want to see it be part of our community,” he said.

Steele said that the trail authority would ultimately like to pursue a millage for the trail.

County administrator gets positive evaluation in annual review

ADRIAN — Lenawee County commissioners gave county administrator Kimberly Murphy a rating of “Exceeds Expectations/Outstanding” during her annual review in May.

The review process included written evaluations submitted by each commissioner and a formal interview by the full commission.

Along with their annual evaluation, commissioners set five goals for the administrator in the coming year. Those goals are:

n Create opportunities to engage and collaborate with local government leaders.

n Attend and connect with local service groups and organizations.

n Work with departments to establish goals and objectives to improve operational efficiencies.

n Identify the next steps on the Rex B Martin Judicial Building project.

n Assist and direct commissioners with a strategic plan. Murphy has been the county administrator since April 2022.

Mehan retires as county maintenance superintendent; VanNieuwenhze promoted

ADRIAN — At a meeting in May, Lenawee County commissioners honored Tim Mehan, maintenance superintendent for the county, on the occasion of his retirement.

Commission vice chair Dustin Krasny (R-Onsted) said that Mehan has spent 39 years with the county, having been

IN BRIEF Administrator search update

ADRIAN — On May 19, the Adrian City Commission defined the scope of services that it will ask of Ann Arborbased search firm Yeo & Yeo in the search for a new city administrator. Commissioners approved $19,500 for the search, $1,250 for coordinating the eventual administrator’s first evaluation, and $6,250 for work on a strategic plan update. However, they decided to delay a decision on hiring Yeo & Yeo to help with training for the new administrator or city staff, saying the new administrator would be part of that decision.

Pedal Across Lower Michigan to pass through Adrian

ADRIAN — The Pedal Across Lower Michigan bike tour will come through Lenawee County on Thursday, June 26. Organizers are expecting about 400 riders and about 100 staff and non-riding participants to take part in this year’s PALM ride. PALM riders will start in Addison that morning and ride to Adrian, and then on to Dundee for the night. The route includes Rome Road and Deerfield Road. People driving in Lenawee County that day are asked to be careful and conscious of sharing the road.

hired as a part-time general laborer in April 1986. He was promoted several times, eventually becoming deputy maintenance superintendent in 2005 and superintendent in 2010.

A resolution honoring Mehan for his service stated that he “has demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and

Clinton Local has new owner

CLINTON — The Clinton Local, which has been Clinton’s local newspaper since 1884, is now under the same umbrella as the Tecumseh Herald and The Advance in Blissfield. Meadowbrook Media, which purchased the Tecumseh Herald earlier this year and the Advance at the end of last year, is owned by local businessman Rex Crist.

Stephenson Park to reopen

MORENCI — The city of Morenci will celebrate the completion of Stephenson Park renovations with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 26, at 5 p.m. The event will take place at Stephenson Park, located at 125 E. Stephenson St., and is open to the public. Renovations to the park were funded by a grant from the Michigan DNR.

Morenci school bond passes

MORENCI — Voters in the Morenci school district approved a 30-year, $17.4 million bond issue in a May 6 special election. The vote was 259-121.

The bond will pay for upgrades at both the elementary and middle/high school buildings, including safety and security measures, new roofs on both schools, heating and cooling systems, and technology upgrades.

dedication in overseeing the care, safety, and operational excellence of Lenawee County’s buildings and grounds, playing an instrumental role in countless projects and improvements that have benefited employees and the public alike.”

Commissioners also said that he has been a mentor to many people and a

Clayton School reunion

CLAYTON — A Clayton School reunion will take place on June 21 at Clayton Town Hall. There will be a meal at 12:30 p.m. followed by social time at 1:30 p.m. To RSVP for the meal, please call 517-797-9649 by June 6.

problem-solver in challenging times. Deputy maintenance superintendent Robert VanNieuwenhze has been named to take Mehan’s place as superintendent.

Sports dome is now up, but sign request is denied

City rejects proposal for two 40-foot by 40-foot banners

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Although neighbors were unable to stop Adrian College from putting a 90-foot-tall inflatable sports dome next to their residential neighborhood, they did have one win this week when the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals denied the college’s request to hang two 40-foot by 40-foot banners on the structure.

The decision was made at the May 6 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, a few days before the new dome was inflated.

The city’s zoning ordinance only allows signs in Education, Research and Office (ERO) districts to be 300 square feet, while the proposed signs would have measured 1,600 square feet each. This means that in order to be allowed to put the signs up, the college would have to get a variance from the ZBA.

The college proposed to put banners with the Adrian College Bulldogs logo on the west and south sides of the dome, facing U.S. 223.

Frank Hribar, the college’s vice president for enrollment and student affairs, said the college felt the proposed size was appropriate given the size of the dome.

“This represents 1 percent of the structure per sign,” he said.

Hribar also said the banners would help ease traffic concerns by encouraging people to come from the direction of U.S. 223 instead of through residential areas.

Several neighbors spoke against the variance request.

“This request would just add to the visual clutter that exists between the football stadium and the baseball field,” said Sue Allshouse, who lives on Canterbury Street.

Her husband, Tim, said the average highway billboard in Michigan measures 14 feet by 48 feet, or 672 square feet, while the two proposed banners would total 3,200 square feet. “The college is requesting the equivalent of almost five highway billboards being installed,” he said.

“If you travel on U.S. 223 from the Adrian College arch to the baseball field, there are already 11 signs that say Adrian College,” he said. “I and many others believe that 11 signs in less than half a mile that say Adrian College are enough.

The residents and visitors to the area don’t need roughly five billboards added to the neighborhood. Zoning standards and ordinances exist for many reasons. I hope that you vote tonight to preserve what little of the character, safety and visual harmony are left in our west side neighborhood.”

Tim Bakewell, another Canterbury Street resident, agreed.

“It’s bad enough that I’m not going to be able to see anything from my backyard — no breeze in the summertime, just this monstrosity that they slipped through because of a hole in the ERO,” Bakewell said, referring to the fact that the city’s Education, Research and Office zone does not have height restrictions. “I really would like you to deny this. It’s time that the city had some backbone and stood up to Adrian College for once. Our neighborhood has been kicked around by Adrian College for so many years. It’s time to say no.”

Jim Berryman of Adrian spoke in support of the request, saying that the college benefits the city’s economy and that the banners would help the college attract and retain students. Berryman is a former mayor and a member of the Adrian College board of trustees, though he said he was speaking individually and not as a representative of the board.

“Adrian College is stronger today than it’s ever been. They bring people to Adrian,” he said.

ZBA member Mike Jacobitz, who also chairs the city planning commission, questioned the need for the signs.

“I am wondering why this needs a sign at all,” he said. “This is not wayfinding. Everyone for blocks around can see that this is the athletic dome. As folks have pointed out, there’s more than enough signage for folks to know that this is Adrian College.”

“It strikes me just as promotional,” he added.

Jacobitz also said that when the planning commission reviewed the site plan for the dome, planning commissioners asked about parking and were told that it wouldn’t be an issue because the dome would not be a public facility. If enough public traffic is expected that signs are needed, he said, “then maybe we need to revisit the parking capacity.”

The Zoning Board of Appeals decided unanimously that the college’s request did not meet the standards required to receive a variance.

The new Adrian College sports dome is seen on May 8 behind a home on Shrewbury Avenue. Neighbors tried unsuccessfully to stop the dome from being approved, citing its impact on their back yards.

A hero’s final tribute

More than 80 years after his airplane was shot down over Germany, a lost World War II veteran is finally laid to rest

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — More than 80 years after his airplane was shot down over Germany, a hero of World War II was laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery next to the son he never knew.

A graveside service with military honors was held on May 19 to remember Staff Sgt. Ralph L. Mourer.

Mourer was a radio operator in the 732nd Bombardment Squadron of the United States Army Air Forces, the predecessor to today’s Air Force. He was on a bombing mission to Brunswick, Germany, when his airplane — a B-24H Liberator named “Little Joe” — was attacked near the town of Salzwedel on April 8, 1944. He and nine others were lost.

He was 23 years old, and his wife, Betty, was expecting their first child.

Over the years, numerous efforts were made to locate the wreckage of the plane. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, the location was finally identified with the help of an independent research group, the Missing Allied Air Crew Research Team, which contacted DPAA historians about a possible crash site in 2015. It took many years to identify the site, perform excavations, recover wreckage, and identify remains. Mourer’s remains were eventually confirmed using anthropological, dental, and DNA analysis in June 2024.

Learning of the discovery was bittersweet for Mourer’s family members, in part because neither Betty nor their son, Victor, lived to see it.

JoAnne Maurer of Adrian, who married Victor after meeting him at Adrian College, said he would have been glad to see his father brought home.

“He would have been exceedingly pleased and happy,” she said.

Victor died in 2006, and his wife recalled that when he was close to dying, they sometimes talked about his father. “You’re going to finally talk to

your dad,” she told him. “Why don’t you think about some questions you want to ask him?”

Victor and JoAnne Maurer’s daughter, Laura Spolsky, said that while she grew up knowing that her grandfather had been lost over Germany, the story hit her differently after she became a parent herself.

“The feelings on that changed as I got older and started to realize the relationships that parents have with their children and what my dad missed out on,” she said.

Spolsky’s children, Kailyn and Connor, attended the service with her.

Numerous area veterans’ groups were represented at the May 19 memorial, and members of the American Legion Riders, Patriot Riders and AmVets provided a motorcycle escort from Wagley Funeral Home to Oakwood Cemetery.

The procession traveled east on Maumee Street, north on McKenzie, and east on Riverside, a route that made it possible for students from Adrian High School, Adrian Middle School, and Lincoln and Alexander elementary schools to come out and pay tribute to him along the way.

Spolsky, who now lives in Milford, said she was awed by how many veterans attended the service and by the sense of brotherhood that made them want to honor a man they never knew.

“It was just very heartwarming, the fact that we still have so many people that are dedicated to honoring our military and paying their respects,” she said.

A pallbearer presents the American flag that had been draped over Staff Sgt. Ralph Mourer’s casket to his granddaughter, Laura Spolsky, as her daughter Kailyn and son Connor look on. Next to Connor is Spolsky’s mother, JoAnne Mourer of Adrian, who married Ralph Mourer’s son, Victor. At left is Victor’s half-sister, Peggy Ziegler. LAD STRAYER/LENAWEE VOICE

Ralph Mourer with his wife, Betty, who was pregnant with their first child when he was killed in action during World War II.

Members of the American Legion Riders salute as the body of Staff Sgt. Ralph Mourer is carried from Wagley Funeral Home to begin a procession to Oakwood Cemetery on May 19. Numerous area veterans groups attended the service to honor Mourer, who was killed in action in 1944. LAD STRAYER/LENAWEE VOICE

LAND & WATER

A sense of place

Home Walk series invites area residents to share the natural places that are special to them

By Kadi Franson The Lenawee Voice

TIPTON — On a cool April morning, friends and neighbors gathered around a fire in Tipton. A young boy found an earthworm and carried it around in his small hand, showing it to everyone. We were here to walk on Bob Kellum’s land in the first of a series of free tours offered by the Grand-Raisin Conservation Community, one of many member communities of The Stewardship Network.

The “Sense of Place” Home Walk Series takes place on public and private lands and allows tour guides to share their connections to the places they love.

What makes this place unique?

“It’s rare to have intact ecosystems,” a nearby neighbor named Andy Lewis shared. He mentioned the distinct rolling topography and the many habitats, from wetlands to oak savannah, that thrive within the land’s dips and ridges. He spoke of the long presence of human habitation in the area, going as far back as the last ice age when people hunted megafauna here. He mentioned how, in more recent times, the area served as an important stopover on the Underground Railroad.

Kellum noted that the area had the special distinction of being the headwaters of two separate watersheds that flow into the Raisin and Grand Rivers, with one draining to Lake Erie and the other to Lake Michigan. Someone else pointed out that the area’s natural boundaries, shaped by watersheds and topography, are clear.

This page is dedicated to coverage of agriculture, the environment, and the intersection between the two. To suggest story ideas, pleas email news@lenaweevoice.com.

In contrast, the ones overlain by humans, encompassing several counties and jurisdictions, are disjointed. That lack of a single political or jurisdictional identity makes the natural boundaries all the more definitive in creating a shared sense of place.

“Everywhere, everything has something to express,” Kellum told the group, reminding us that the land has many ways of speaking, if we only take the time to listen. Surrounding us were 300 acres of family land that he has been listening to for decades. Over the years, he has taken up the mantle of stewardship in collaboration with many helping hands. Some of the tour’s attendants have joined him in caring for the land: together, they monitor plants and wildlife, collect and disperse seeds from healthy remnant ecosystems, administer seasonal burns, and remove invasive species.

As we walked, I noticed the thickets of honeysuckle and autumn olive occupying large sections of the understory. Even though they have no legs, plants are always on the move. Their seeds are carried in the bellies of

animals and get deposited in clumps of self-starter around the landscape. They are stowed in the pockets of people who travel around the world with their ancestral medicines. Governments promote them to help stabilize soil or provide forage. And so, along with those plants that have co-evolved with local wildlife over eons, many newcomers are on the scene.

“We often find that if we just remove some of the stuff that Europeans put in, these areas can restore themselves,” Jeremy Siegrist, one of the land stewards, told us. He mentioned that in mainstream culture, there is a heavy emphasis on adding things to our places, like new landscaping, structures, and roads. But often, the land actually calls for the removal of particular species and tending to what is already there. Our path continued through forested areas. We meandered by a hillside seep erupting in skunk cabbage, a stream blooming yellow with marsh marigolds, the border of a wetland, and a stand of mayapples. The day warmed up. When we passed by a spring, several people paused to dip out a drink with a metal cup. As they bent low and sipped, someone noticed a cluster of bright orange growth in the divot of a mossy log. Wolf slime mold, we learned. People spoke, but not too much. Instead, we listened to the land yammer: A swamp sparrow trilled along the edge of a pond. Warblers, freshly

See SENSE OF PLACE, page A13

Water quality monitoring resumes at Lenawee County beaches

ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Health Department has announced the return of its seasonal beach water sampling program.

Beginning with the final week in May, environmental health staff are collecting weekly water samples from two public beaches in Lenawee County: Hayes State Park and Lake Hudson Recreation Area.

The locations were chosen because of the popularity of these two beaches as recreational spots within the county. Because they are popular destinations, the health department stated, providing regular updates on water quality remains important. These updates will allow the public to make informed decisions for themselves and their families regarding swimming activities.

To protect public health and to prevent the spread of disease, the samples will be analyzed for E. coli bacteria levels. The Michigan Public Health Code sets limits for levels of bacteria in all bodies of water, including bathing beaches open to the public. If the levels detected during monitoring exceed these limits, the risk of illness increases.

If water quality does not meet state safety standards, a health advisory will be issued. Signage will be displayed at the beach, and advisory information will be posted online.

Public beach advisories issued by the Lenawee County Health Department will be posted at lenawee.mi.us/beach. For more information, call 517-264-5213 or email ehdesk@lenawee.mi.us.

Visitors walk on Bob Kellum’s land near Tipton during series of free tours offered by the Grand-Raisin Conservation Community, one of many member communities of The Stewardship Network. KADI FRANSON/LENAWEE VOICE

Marsh marigold blooming in a stream.

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.

Flores recibe el primer premio anual Liberty Bell

Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

ADRIAN — La asociación que representa a los abogados del Condado de Lenawee recientemente honró a Rudy Flores de Adrian con el primer Premio Anual Liberty Bell (Campana de la Libertad).

La presentación del 2 de mayo tuvo lugar el día después del Día de la Ley, declarado por primera vez por el presidente Dwight Eisenhower en 1958. Katarina DuMont, Presidenta del Colegio de Abogados del Condado de Lenawee, dijo que el Premio Campana de la Libertad tiene como objetivo honrar a las personas que han dedicado su tiempo y esfuerzo para fortalecer los principios de libertad y justicia establecidos en la Constitución de los Estados Unidos.

Flores es un defensor de los trabajadores agrícolas migrantes y temporales, así como de las comunidades inmigrantes. Comenzó su carrera en servicios humanos en 1992 y actualmente trabaja para el Departamento de Salud y Servicios

La clínica dice que los recortes de Medicaid serían devastadores

Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

ADRIAN — Una clínica local advierte que los recortes al programa de Medicaid dañarían seriamente la atención médica en el área de Adrian.

David L. Brown, Presidente de la Junta Directiva de Family Medical Center of Michigan (Centro Médico Familiar de Michigan), envió un comunicado a los medios locales sobre los recortes propuestos a Medicaid.

Afirmó que el Centro Médico Familiar atiende a más de 18,400 pacientes al año y ofrece más de 95,000 consultas médicas, dentales y de salud mental. Casi un tercio de los pacientes del centro dependen de Medicaid como seguro médico.

Dijo que Medicaid es una tabla de salvación para niños,personas con discapacidades, familias trabajadoras,estudiantes y aquellos cuyos trabajos no ofrecen seguro.

La misión del Centro Médico Familiar es atender a todos, independientemente de su situación de cobertura médica. Sin embargo, Brown afirmó que la capacidad de la clínica para hacerlo depende de la financiación de Medicaid. Brown indicó que si el Congreso aprueba recortes drásticos a Medicaid, miles de personas en los Condados de Lenawee y Monroe podrían perder su cobertura, lo que agotaría los recursos de la clínica y posiblemente la obligaría a reducir servicios o personal. Esto afectaría a todos los pacientes, no solo a quienes usan Medicaid, afirmó.

Family Medical Center of Michigan (El Centro Médico Familiar de Michigan) se encuentra en 1200 N. Main St., Adrian.

Brown dijo que sin seguro, más personas recurrirán a las salas de emergencia en busca de ayuda, lo que amenazaría la salud financiera de los hospitales y del sistema de atención médica en general.

El Centro Médico Familiar opera cuatro clínicas y tres centros de salud escolares en los Condados de Lenawee y Monroe. La Clínica Adrian se encuentra en 1200 N. Main St.

Humanos de Michigan.Ha formado parte de las juntas directivas de las escuelas públicas de Adrian, el Centro de Alfabetización Adrian Rea, ProMedica y LLEAD Division de Adrian (Líderes Latinos para el Mejoramiento, la Defensa y el Desarrollo). Recientemente fue nombrado miembro de la Comisión Hispana/Latina de Michigan. El Colegio de Abogados del Condado de Lenawee también reconoció a Jeanette Henagan y Jill Hicks. Henagan trabaja como Trabajadora Social de bienestar infantil en el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos del Condado de Lenawee, donde lleva 38 años trabajando. Es Presidenta de la NAACP de Lenawee. Hicks es el Director Ejecutivo de Catherine Cobb Safe House en Adrian, que apoya a sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica y agresión sexual.

DuMont dijo que el Colegio de Abogados planea seguir celebrando el Día del Derecho, incluida la presentación del Premio Campana de la Libertad, todos los años lo más cerca posible del 1ro de mayo.

Programas bilingües en la biblioteca

ADRIAN — Los siguientes programas en Adrian District Library (Biblioteca del Distrito de Adrian) serán ofrecidos tanto en inglés como en español.

Fiesta para pintar y tomar limonadas: Acompáñanos a nuestra fiesta de color. Pinta un lienzo estilo libre mientras disfrutas de refrescantes limonadas sin alcohol. Sábado 21 de junio, 1 p.m., y lunes 23 de junio, 10 a.m.

Latinos de Lenawee: Ben Negron hablará de los retos que han enfrentado los primeros inmigrantes y su fuerza de voluntad para establecerse en el área. Miércoles 25 de junio, 3 p.m.

Veterano de la Segunda Guerra Mundial fue sepultado en Adrian

Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

ADRIAN — ADRIAN — Más de 80 años después de que su avión fuera derribado sobre Alemania, un héroe de la Segunda Guerra Mundial fue enterrado en el Cementerio de Oakwood junto al hijo que nunca conoció. El 19 de mayo se celebró un servicio junto a la tumba con honores militares para recordar al Sargento Ralph L. Mourer.

Mourer era operador de radio del 732.º Escuadrón de Bombardeo de las Fuerzas Aéreas del Ejército de los Estados Unidos, predecesor de la actual Fuerza Aérea. Se encontraba en una misión de bombardeo en Brunswick, Alemania, cuando su avión fue atacado cerca del Pueblo de Salzwedel el 8 de abril de 1944. Él y otras nueve personas fallecieron.

Tenía 23 años y su esposa, Betty, estaba esperando su primer hijo.

A lo largo de los años, se realizaron numerosos esfuerzos para localizar los restos del avión. Un grupo de investigación independiente identificó

una posible ubicación en 2015. Se necesitaron muchos años para encontrar el lugar, realizar excavaciones, recuperar los restos e identificar los restos. Los restos de Mourer finalmente se confirmaron mediante análisis antropológicos, dentales y de ADN en junio de 2024.

La noticia del descubrimiento fue agridulce para los familiares de Mourer, en parte porque ni Betty ni su hijo, Víctor, vivieron para verlo.

JoAnne Maurer, de Adrian, quien se casó con Víctor después de conocerlo en el Adrian College, dijo que a él le habría alegrado ver a su padre traerlo a casa.

La hija de Victor y JoAnne Maurer, Laura Spolsky, dijo que si bien creció sabiendo que su abuelo se había perdido en Alemania, la historia la afectó de manera diferente después de convertirse en madre y comenzar a darse cuenta de lo que su padre se había perdido. Numerosos grupos de veteranos de la zona estuvieron representados en el acto conmemorativo del 19 de mayo, y miembros de la Legión Americana Riders escoltaron a los soldados desde

Jill Hicks, Rudy Flores y Jeanette Henagan fueron homenajeados el 2 de mayo por el Colegio de Abogados del Condado de Lenawee.

la Funeraria Wagley hasta el Cementerio Oakwood. Estudiantes de la Escuela Preparatoria de Adrian, Secundaria de

Adrian, Primarias Lincoln y Alexander Schools estuvieron de pie a lo largo del recorrido para presenciar la procesión.

Un portador del féretro presenta la bandera estadounidense que cubría el ataúd del Sargento Ralph Mourer a su nieta, Laura Spolsky, mientras su hija Kailyn y su hijo Connor observan. Junto a Connor está la madre de Spolsky, JoAnne Mourer, de Adrian, quien se casó con el hijo de Ralph Mourer, Victor. A la izquierda, la media hermana de Victor, Peggy Ziegler. FOTO POR LAD STRAYER

Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad celebrará 200 años de contribuciones hispanas y latinas en Adrian

Por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares ADRIAN — Como parte de la celebración del Bicentenario de la Ciudad de Adrian, una iniciativa cultural liderada por la comunidad organizada a través de LLEAD Adrian, titulada Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad, honrará el legado de 200 años de los residentes hispanos y latinos de los Condados de Adrian y Lenawee. A través de la narración, el arte y la educación cultural,

Nuevo salón ya está abierto en el Centro de Adrian

Artículo original por Julie C. Clemes Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

ADRIAN — Dollhouse (Casa de muñecas), un salón de uñas, cabello y piel, abrió a principios de este año en el Centro de Adrian.

La propietaria Nelsy Martínez trabajó en el negocio de la belleza durante más de siete años antes de abrir su propio salón, y le encanta trabajar en su ubicación en el Centro de Adrian. Los servicios de uñas en Dollhouse incluyen uñas acrílicas, manicura y pedicura. Además de ser un salón de uñas, Dollhouse también ofrece otros servicios. Dos estilistas trabajan en el salón. Una se especializa en color, cortes y otros servicios capilares, y la otra en trenzas y rastas.

El salón también ofrece servicios de una esteticista, que se especializa en tratamientos faciales, depilación corporal y facial y depilación de cejas con hilo.

A Martínez le gusta trabajar en el Centro de Adrian porque le gusta ver a la gente y el tráfico pasar frente al escaparate de la tienda. También comentó que disfruta de la ubicación céntrica.

El salón está en 115 E. Maumee St., Suite 180, Adrian. Puede reservar una cita en casademuñecasdeadrian. glossgenius.com. En Facebook, buscando “Dollhouse of Adrian”, y en Instagram, @dollhouseofadrian. También puede programar una cita por teléfono al 517-442-9126.

el evento busca fortalecer la voz de los inmigrantes y fomentar un mayor sentido de unidad en Adrian. El evento del Bicentenario destacará el impacto duradero de las comunidades hispana y latina en la configuración de la economía agrícola de la zona, su perseverancia frente al racismo y las injusticias sociales, su liderazgo cívico y religioso, el servicio público, los triunfos en la defensa de los derechos laborales y la diversidad cultural de Adrian.

También honrará a personas dedicadas al mejoramiento de aquellos que lo necesitamos.

Como parte de la iniciativa, se invitará a los miembros de la comunidad a asistir a clases culturales gratuitas y sin cita previa que brindan la oportunidad de explorar las tradiciones hispanas y latinas. Estas clases pueden incluir artes basadas en la herencia cultural, narración de cuentos, experiencias culinarias, enriquecimiento lingüístico

y más. Las clases estarán abiertas a todas las edades y se anima al público a participar, independientemente de su origen. Los horarios, fechas y lugares de los eventos se anunciarán pronto en el sitio web del Bicentenario de Adrian. Además de las clases, Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad Presentará dos grandes proyectos narrativos:

RAÍCES continúa en la página A 13

EDIFICIOS DEL CENTRO DEMOLIDOS

Varios edificios vacíos a lo largo de la calle Winter en el Centro de Adrian fueron demolidos en mayo. Los edificios incluían la antigua oficina del Periódico Daily Telegram, ubicada en 133 N. Winter St., y los tres edificios directamente al norte. Dos edificios al este de la calle también fueron demolidos. La ciudad espera encontrar un desarrollador para construir viviendas en la propiedad.

CALENDARIO DEL CENTRO EBEID PARA JUNIO

ADRIAN — Los siguientes programas educativos y reuniones comunitarias se llevarán a cabo en junio 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.

Jornada de Puertas Abiertas de la YMCA — el lunes 9 de junio, 1-5 p.m. La YMCA de la familia Frank y Shirley Dick está trayendo de vuelta la programación de ejercicio y bienestar a Adrian. Todos son bienvenidos a unirse a los programas de ejercicio y bienestar en sesiones de demostración acortadas que se ofrecen a lo largo de la tarde o participar activamente. También puede conocer a instructores certificados y hacernos saber lo que le gustaría que se le ofreciera en el Centro Adrian Ebeid.

Especialidad de Yoga para Personas Mayores (por YMCA) — el martes 10, 17 y 24 de junio, 9 a.m. ¿Sabías que hay muchos tipos diferentes de Yoga?

Durante seis semanas, únase a nosotros para experimentar el Yoga de la Risa, el Yoga de Manos y Pies, el Yoga de la Ansiedad, el Yoga de la Cara y el Cuello, el Yoga Restaurativo y el Yoga de la Pared, cada sesión de Yoga abordará diferentes facetas de la mente y el cuerpo diseñadas especialmente para personas mayores. Cardio Batería Baile Ejercicio (por YMCA) — el lunes 16, 23 y 30 de junio, y el miércoles 11, 18 y 25 de junio, 5 p.m. La batería cardiovascular es muy divertida y una excelente forma de ejercicio apropiado para todos los niveles en la misma clase. ¡Ve a tu propio ritmo! Puede traer sus propios suministros o le proporcionaremos todo lo que necesite. La jornada de puertas abiertas del 9 de junio es una gran oportunidad para ver de qué se trata.

Reunión de la Coalición Comunitaria — el lunes 9 de junio, 5 p.m. La Coalición celebra su reunión mensual el segundo lunes de cada mes a las 5 p.m. Ven y haz que tu voz sea escuchada. Venga a contribuir a la conversación sobre cómo los residentes pueden tener un impacto positivo en nuestra comunidad. Se discuten las actividades, pero en este grupo se discuten temas más amplios. Cultivo de Verduras (ofredico por Lenawee Conservation District) — el jueves 12 de junio, 6 p.m. ¡Es temporada de verduras! Venga y aprenda sobre lo que implica el cultivo de verduras, desde huertos familiares hasta espacios comerciales.

Domina Tus Finanzas (ofrecido por Community Action Agency) — el jueves 12 de junio, 6 p.m. Esta clase es excelente y lo ayudará a establecer y alcanzar sus metas financieras, incluido el aprendizaje sobre las IDA (cuentas de ahorro individuales) grandes y mini que ofrecen fondos de contrapartida.

Ventana Emergente de Alfabetización de Verano (por LISD, ProMedica y muchos voluntaries) — los martes 17 y 24 de junio, 6-8 p.m. Estas 5 semanas de diversión son para los estudiantes que quieren seguir leyendo y aprendiendo durante todo el verano. Disfrute de lecturas en voz alta, actividades prácticas, llévese un libro a casa cada semana y disfrute de una cena con nuevos amigos. Se requiere el consentimiento de los padres/tutores para participar.

Alquiler Para el Exito (por Community Action Agency) — el martes 24 de junio, 5:30-7 p.m. ¡Vuelve el alquiler para el éxito! Aprenda sobre las leyes de vivienda justa, contratos de arrendamiento, derechos de los inquilinos, mantenimiento, reparaciones y más. Los participantes que completen este curso y una sesión privada de asesoramiento presupuestario con CAA reciben un estipendio de $50. Baile en Línea (presentado por Tichina Jones) — el viernes 20 de junio, 6:30 p.m. Agregue a su repertorio de baile en línea aprendiendo el Ballroom Hustle y el Tania Hustle.

Nelsy Martinez es la propietaria de Dollhouse en el Centro de Adrian. FOTO POR JULIE C. CLEMES

Fallen peace officers remembered at Adrian ceremony

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — A memorial to fallen law enforcement officers took place on May 15 at Oakwood Cemetery in Adrian. Members of law enforcement agencies in Lenawee County, the Michigan State Police, and relatives and friends of fallen officers were part of the crowd of 50 that gathered to pay respect to those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of public safety.

“We make sure that we acknowledge those officers and have a memorial in Lenawee County for those who have given their lives,” said Lenawee County Sheriff Troy Bevier. The annual memorial has been happening for close to 30 years, he added.

The observance included speeches from local officials, a gun salute, the playing of “Taps” and a bagpipe performance of “Amazing Grace.” The flag at Oakwood Cemetery’s peace officers’ memorial was lowered to half-mast during the ceremony.

The fallen peace officers’ memorial honors eight people, dating back to 1880: Officer Dennis R. Lyons of the Adrian Police Department, Deputy Stanley B. Hoisington of the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Trooper Calvin R. Jones of the Michigan State Police, Trooper Dugald A. Pellot of the Michigan State Police, Constable Richard L. Teske from the village of Clayton, Trooper Rodger M. Adams from the Michigan State Police,

Hewitt-Cruz

from page A3

full circle by returning to Adrian city government in her new position. “I feel this is me 2.0,” she said.

And that’s where the really funny twist comes in: she discovered a collection of banker’s boxes tucked away in a room on the third floor of City Hall that were labeled in her handwriting, dating all the way back to her first stint with the city, when City Hall wasn’t even in the same building.

“They waited 29 years for me to come back,” she said, laughing.

Working with the USDA’s rural development division meant getting involved with a wide range of programs, including both single- and multi-family housing, small-business development,

Sense of Place

from page A10

returned from their spring migration, sung from the canopy. Distantly, I could hear a tree frog croaking, and the powerful bellows of Sandhill cranes.

We came upon a grove of white oak trees. In the center, one tree stood much larger than the surrounding ones. “That one is the mother tree,” Kellum said, gesturing. “All this younger growth came from that tree.”

Where before I had barely noticed the trees, the grove now seemed illuminated by this regenerative dynamic. What we were gazing upon was a tree nursery.

Raíces

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n Arte y Reconstrucción de la Memoria: Voluntarios locales, incluyendo estudiantes de arte de la Preparatoria Adrian y del Colegio Adrian, ayudarán a recrear objetos simbólicos y fotografías que las familias pudieron haber perdido durante su migración. Las obras de arte podrán exhibirse públicamente con el consentimiento de las familias o mantenerse en privado si así lo desean. Se respetarán todas las decisiones sobre la privacidad.

water and sewer development for rural communities, and much more: “anything that helps rural communities be sustainable and grow,” she said. As a director, she oversaw people who in turn were responsible for 70 different programs.

To her, working in government is a passion, not just a job. “My whole entire life I’ve been a public servant,” she said. “I’m motivated and driven to help in any way possible.”

Having such extensive experience in community development allows her to bring some different perspectives back to Adrian for her new role with the city. “It allows you to look at your community with a new lens, a different lens,” she said. “You come back with new ideas, and I did things in community development in Tennessee that I can do here.”

“White oak spreads wealth to everyone … insects, birds … white oak can anchor the whole area.”

As he spoke, I thought of the role that this group of people held. I witnessed how they were dedicating their lives as stewards, casting seeds, operating from a shared vision marked by respect and care, and paying close attention to the many messages coming from the land.

“It’s important to build an awareness about the things that we don’t have an ear for and the things that we can’t see — just because we can’t see them doesn’t make them any less important,” Kellum said.

“Or any less alive,” added Anna Snoeyink, another of the land stewards.

n Historia Oral y Preservación de Relatos: Las familias están invitadas a escribir o registrar relatos personales y familiares con la ayuda de voluntarios como escritores, periodistas, personas bilingües, estudiantes y miembros compasivos de la comunidad. Los relatos podrán archivarsesolo con permiso— en la colección histórica de la Biblioteca del Distrito de Adrian. Las familias también pueden optar por conservar sus historias impresas sin necesidad de subirlas digitalmente. Los objetivos de Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad son:

n Celebremos los 200 años de contribuciones hispanas y latinas en el Condado de Adrian y Lenawee.

Officer Bobby L. Williams from the Adrian Police Department, and Trooper Byron J. Erickson from the Michigan State Police.

After the ceremony, a luncheon for law enforcement officers was held at Father Williams Hall on the St. Joseph campus of Holy Family Parish. In addition to Holy Family Parish, numerous businesses

Different states have different dynamics, she added, “and you can incorporate some of those processes.”

In addition to that sort of concrete experience from her previous work, she thinks she brings certain personal strengths, including “the ability to see the big picture and be able to formulate ways to make improvements for more effective delivery of services.”

Her responsibilities in her new job range from code enforcement for rental properties and dealing with blight to zoning and planning oversight to educating businesses and residences about issues involving city ordinances, such as when someone needs a permit to do something to their property.

Among the challenges she sees is the need to modernize practices like requiring paper forms for certain processes that could be handled electronically instead.

An invitation to others

The efforts underway on Kellum’s land provide an example of what can happen at a large scale, but connections with the land can happen anywhere, at any scale.

A nearby neighbor named Sylvia Kay shared that hers comes from feeling a “kinship with the trees.” Andy Lewis spoke about the value of creating essential islands in a sea of fragmented habitats: “Your own yard can become a diversified wild habitat … backyard ecosystems are the stepping stones that a lot of species need to move around.”

Others mentioned the potential for residents to pull non-native species and learn where the waters in their communities flow.

n Educar al público sobre la historia a menudo pasada por alto de las comunidades latinas locales y de líderes comunitarios.

n Ayudar a las generaciones más jóvenes, especialmente a los hijos de inmigrantes de primera y segunda generación, a conectarse con su cultura y su idioma.

n Damos la bienvenida a los residentes de los condados vecinos y expresamos nuestra gratitud por su papel en la construcción de una ciudad diversa, vibrante y mejor, La Ciudad de Adrian.

n Fomentar la unidad dentro de la comunidad hispana y latina, así como con las poblaciones no hispanas y no

Local law enforcement officers salute during a memorial ceremony on May 15 for officers who died in the line of duty.

supported the lunch, including Jersey Mike’s, Mandy Makes n’ Bakes, and Country Market. David Smaw at Shirtz Inc. donated his time in completing the gifts for officers.

May 15 has been designated as Peace Officers Memorial Day in the U.S. every year since 1962.

“Every part of our process needs to be modernized,” she said, and a new online portal being launched soon will help in that effort.

Hewitt-Cruz said she welcomes being part of addressing Adrian’s needs for housing, business development, and growth by working to attract developers and partnering with regional, state, and federal funding sources.

One thing Hewitt-Cruz wants city residents and businesses to know is that “I personally am here to listen to them,” she said, and people are welcome to contact her office at 517-264-4893 or by email at lhcruz@adrianmi.gov.

“I’m open to new ideas,” she said. “If anyone has a concern about something, a new business they’d like to see come to town, a complaint, I’m here to listen. Communication is the key to success.”

“My hope is for people to build a connection to the land, one that is integrated and not extractive — a living relationship with the land they live on,” Siegrist concluded.

Upcoming tours in the Sense of Place series include:

n Leaf and Feather Farms, 13980 Calhoun Road, Cement City, on Saturday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to noon.

n Goose Creek Grasslands Nature Sanctuary, off Cement City Highway near Cement City, on Saturday, Aug. 16, from 2-5 p.m.

Events are free and all are welcome. To lead your own tour, email Carley Kratz at carleykratz@gmail.com.

latinas de Adrian. Los organizadores convocan a escritores, bilingües, estudiantes, artistas y vecinos solidarios a participar como voluntarios en esta iniciativa. Animamos a cualquier persona interesada en enseñar, ayudar a familias o colaborar con historias o colecciones de arte.

Para obtener más información, donar o ser voluntario, comuníquese con LLEAD Adrian en latinoleadadrian@ gmail.com.

Mientras Adrian conmemora dos siglos de crecimiento y cambio, Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad. Se erige como una celebración de la identidad, la memoria y la fuerza de una comunidad unida.

JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Letters to the Editor should be 350 words or fewer and may be emailed to letters@lenaweevoice.com.

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

EDITORIAL

Should government be in the real estate business?

From the Winter Street riverfront to the Tecumseh Products site, there have been a whole bunch of projects in the news recently that give rise to the question: Should governments really be in the real estate business?

Everybody is going to have their own take on that question, but here is ours: In an ideal world, the answer would be no. But we don’t live in an ideal world, and sometimes government action is the only way to make something happen.

This might not be the most popular opinion, but hear us out.

We understand the arguments against government getting involved in real estate development. One of the most compelling ones may be that government simply isn’t very good at it. For example, about 25 years ago, the city of Adrian purchased the Witt Farm parcel on the north side of town with the goal that it would be used for future development. In all that time, only one deal — the Gaslight Village assisted living facility — has actually come to fruition. The proposed Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute campus is exciting and holds a lot of promise, but it’s hard to deny that one successful deal in 25 years isn’t a great track record.

At the same time, you have to consider the alternative.

Take the Winter Street riverfront project, in which the city of Adrian has assumed responsibility for demolishing the former Daily Telegram office and several other vacant buildings to — hopefully — make way for a future housing development. Or take the Products on Evans project, which has been awarded a $5 million grant through the state of Michigan to turn a vacant, two-story office building that was once the Tecumseh Products headquarters into a 59-unit apartment community.

We admit this doesn’t always feel right. It feels a little bit like the government picking winners and losers — because after all, what business owner wouldn’t love it if somebody else came along and paid for a big chunk of their startup costs?

But then you have to ask: What would happen if a state or local government didn’t step in?

Without the city stepping in and preparing the Winter Street riverfront area for development, it’s likely that nothing would happen at all. The buildings would keep falling into worse and worse disrepair, becoming eyesores that would both cause a safety problem and hurt the community’s image. No developer would even look at the site, because it would always be cheaper to find a parcel of clean, vacant land somewhere on the outskirts of town.

result in the hollowing-out of our historic downtowns. We’d have new developments out on the fringes, but in the heart of our communities, we would have nothing but ruin and decay.

major structural repairs would have a place to live. It was purchased to help keep some of Adrian’s most vulnerable residents from suddenly becoming homeless.

A completely hands-off approach to development would result in the hollowing-out of the historic downtowns that are the heart of our communities.

A completely laissez-faire approach to development — no government intervention at all, let the free market take its course and let the chips fall where they may — would

That’s why we can’t endorse the idea that government should just step aside. It’s also why, when it comes to the Tecumseh Products factory site just south of the future Products on Evans, we believe that Lenawee County must proceed thoughtfully and not just try to rid itself of the property as quickly as possible.

A related topic is that of the Adrian Inn, which the city bought for $800,000 in 2022 and recently agreed to sell to Adrian College for $250,000.

Buying a property and then selling it three years later for less than a third of the price sounds like a terrible investment. And, yes, it would have been ... if it had been intended as an investment at all. But it wasn’t. The Adrian Inn was purchased to help make sure that people who were displaced from Riverview Terrace when it needed

LOCAL VIEWS

So it wasn’t a financial invesment — but it was an investment of a different kind. It was an investment in our people, and in being a compassionate community.

Some folks like to say that government should run like a business, but that cliche ignores an important truth. Government is not a business, because they have two very different goals. The purpose of a business is to make a profit — but the purpose of government is to serve the people.

So yes, sometimes there is a role for government to play in real-estate development. Some may dislike this idea on ideological grounds, but the results are what matter. Government can be a tool for doing good in our communities, and if we embrace that tool when appropriate, our communities will benefit.

Medicaid cuts would hurt the most vulnerable in our community

Congress is considering hundreds of billions of dollars in cuts to the Medicaid program which threatens the health coverage and care of millions of Americans, including many here in our community. As Chair of the Board of Directors and a patient at Family Medical Center of Michigan (FMC), I want to make clear: these cuts would harm our patients, our neighbors, and the very foundation of our health center.

FMC serves more than 18,400 patients each year, providing over 95,000 medical, dental, and behavioral health visits. Nearly one-third of our patients rely on Medicaid for their health insurance. Medicaid is not an abstract government program; it’s a lifeline for children, people with disabilities, working families,

DAVID L. BROWN

students, and those whose jobs don’t offer insurance. These are our friends, our relatives, and our neighbors — and they deserve access to quality care.

Our health center’s mission is to serve everyone, regardless of their insurance status. But our ability to do so depends on a careful balance: we rely on Medicaid funding to help sustain care for all, including those who are uninsured. If

Congress enacts deep Medicaid cuts, thousands in our region could lose coverage, straining our resources and forcing us to make painful choices — possibly reducing services or staff, which would impact every patient, not just those on Medicaid.

The consequences would ripple beyond our clinics. Patients who lose coverage still need care, but without insurance, they may turn to emergency rooms for help. This is not only more expensive, but it also threatens the financial health of hospitals and the broader healthcare system. The Congressional Budget Office recently confirmed that major Medicaid cuts would lead to millions losing coverage and states being forced to limit benefits

or eligibility. In Michigan, more than 2.6 million people depend on Medicaid — one in every four residents, according to the Michigan Hospital Association.

We don’t yet know the final details Congress will decide, but the bottom line is clear: slashing Medicaid funding will undermine the health and stability of our community. These cuts are bad for Michigan, bad for health centers like FMC, and — most importantly — bad for the patients we are committed to serving. I urge our leaders to reject any proposal that puts healthcare for our most vulnerable at risk.

David L.

Brown is the board chair of the Family Medical Center of Michigan, which operates four clinics and three school-based health centers in Lenawee and Monroe counties.

The former Daily Telegram office at 133 N. Winter St. was demolished in May, part of an effort by the city of Adrian to prepare the area along the Winter Street riverfront for eventual redevelopment as housing.

Charles and Barbara Burkholder, who farmed near Onsted, had spent 40 years amassing a collection of about 13,000 farm toys and 350 pedal tractors. Near the end of their lives, they decided they wanted their collection to serve a larger purpose.

“It was their dream that the collection be housed in a museum, and a museum that told the story of agriculture,” said Melissa Tsuji, president of the AFMEC board.

Board member Pete Durbin said Charles Burkholder had received offers from people interested in buying the collection, but he knew they would have split it up.

“He said he spent 40 years building it — he didn’t want somebody to buy it just for the expensive pieces and sell everything off,” Durbin said.

With the help of Ellsworth Stout, who was then the president of Gleaner Life Insurance Agency, connections were made that led to the creation of a new organization, with the goal of building a museum to house and display the collection.

Barbara Burkholder died in 2014 and Charles in 2015, but before they died, they served as charter members of the museum board and had the satisfaction of knowing that plans were in the works for something that would outlive them.

The dream has been a long time in the making. The museum officially accepted ownership of the Burkholder collection in 2012, but had nowhere to put it. In 2017, an opportunity arose to buy the former Home Canning Company property at 400 E. Jefferson St., which by then had been cleared of all buildings from the former cannery. The museum board

bought those 35 acres from the village of Blissfield, plus an adjacent 20 acres from a local family.

That property, board member Ted Mason noted, is already fulfilling the museum’s educational purpose by serving as a land lab for the Blissfield school district’s FFA program. The FFA program pays the cost of planting and also maintains the crop, and then the FFA and the museum share the income from the harvest, with FFA taking 65 percent and the museum taking 35 percent.

“That’s been a very good relationship,” Mason said. “It allows them to raise funds for their programs and activities, and it allows us to utilize the farmland that the museum owns.”

But still the Burkholder farm toy collection didn’t have a home where it could be seen and enjoyed by the public. The recent sale of the Hathaway House changed that.

Also known as the David Carpenter House, the stately Greek Revival mansion at 424 W. Adrian St. was built around 1851. In 1963 it was purchased by the Weeber

Veteran of the Year nominations sought

ADRIAN — Nominations are being sought for a veteran to be honored as Veteran of the Year at the Lenawee County Fair. Anyone who would like to nominate a veteran to be honored for their community service activities can pick up a nomination form at the Veterans Affairs office in the Lenawee County Human Services Building, 1040 S. Winter St. Nominations are due by June 28. For more information, contact Dave Loop, commander of the United Veterans Council of Lenawee County, at 517-260-1858.

Spring cleanup dates set for city residents

ADRIAN — A curbside bulk trash collection event in the city of Adrian will take place on the first two Saturdays in June. Items must be placed on the curb by 7 a.m.

Collection will be on June 7 for residents who live south of Maumee Street, and on June 14 for residents who live on or north of Maumee Street.

Accepted items: TVs, household trash, couches, chairs, washers/dryers, stoves, dishwashers and appliances (any freon must be removed).

Items that will not be accepted: Tires, automotive batteries, oils, lubricants, paint, hazardous chemicals, concrete, asphalt, yard waste, landscape timbers, and building materials.

family, who built it into one of the region’s premier fine dining establishments. It became a beloved destination for people from all over southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio, with many special occasions celebrated within its walls.

The Hathaway House closed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and never reopened. The Main Street Stable, a more casual restaurant in what was once the mansion’s carriage house, closed a few years later.

So the museum’s lease agreement doesn’t just represent the fulfillment of Charles and Barbara Burkholder’s dream — it also means a new life for a cornerstone of the community.

“This has a lot of emotional value to a lot of families,” Durbin said of the Hathaway House building.

The museum board hopes to be up and running in the Hathaway House sometime in the late fall.

Not all of the 13,000-piece collection will be displayed at any one time — exhibits will be rotated in and out to keep things fresh.

And the farm toy museum will not be the organization’s only program. Board members also noted that they plan to continue using the Jefferson Street property.

“Our goal has always been to build an education center, because that is the sustainable piece, and have the education center at the center of the toy collection and museum,” Tsuji said.

In addition, although these plans are still in the early stages, they hope that the Main Street Stable building will become a restaurant again.

The American Farm Museum and Education Center, BBQ at the Barn, is coming up on Aug. 1. It will take place at the Jefferson Street property and tickets will be $75 apiece.

For more information, go to afmecblissfield.org.

This 1860s barn, which was moved from a farm in Berkey, Ohio, sits on the property of the American Farm Museum and Education Center on East Jefferson Street in Blissfield.

NEIGHBORS

‘He always showed up’

Dick Germond, the county’s longest-serving sheriff, is remembered for a lifetime of serving wherever he was needed

By Renee Lapham Collins The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — There’s a saying attributed to the Chinese philosopher Confucius: “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”

It’s a fitting way to describe the life of Richard Leo Germond, who died on April 30 at the age of 90. He put his heart into everything he did, according to his colleagues and friends.

Germond is perhaps best known in the community as “Sheriff Germond,” a role he held with pride for more than three decades. He wrapped up his law enforcement career in 2001 after 44 years of service, 36 of them as sheriff of Lenawee County.

Born and raised in Adrian, Germond earned a bachelor’s degree in police administration and criminal justice from Michigan State University in 1958 — by then, he had already been working at the sheriff’s ofice for two years.

In 1964, he was appointed to fill the unexpired term of his predecessor, Charles Stites. That same year, at just 29 years old, Germond was elected sheriff and went on to serve 36 years in the role, the longest of any sheriff in the county and the state.

During his long tenure, he served as president of both the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association and the National Sheriffs’ Association. He was also a life member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Lenawee County Fire Chiefs Association, and several other law enforcement organizations.

Morenci police chief Mike Creswell, who retired from the sheriff’s office in 2014 after 32 years of service, described Germond as “a true professional.”

“He had a lot of integrity,” Creswell said. “He was great to work for.”

Family fun at the track

John Bailey has built Palmyra Speedway into a thriving spot for family-friendly recreation and competition

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

PALMYRA TWP. — Right after John Bailey signed the lease on the go-kart track that was then known as Hilltop Speedway, his wife, Renee, said, “I hope you know what you’re doing.”

It didn’t help that it started raining right about then, and Bailey hoped that wasn’t a bad sign. But then the rain stopped and a huge rainbow appeared right over the property, and since that day in 2016, Bailey’s dreams for what’s now known as Palmyra Speedway at 3449 East U.S. 223 just outside of Adrian have grown steadily.

Bailey, who did dirt-car racing in Wauseon for some 20 years, had known about the speedway since he was a boy in the 1960s, and in fact wanted to buy it in the ’90s but that deal never happened.

Then his grandson Chase wanted to race go-karts and Bailey brought him to the track, where he discovered that the couple who ran it at the time weren’t going to renew their lease.

“And I thought, I might like to do this,” he said.

After a whole series of twists and turns, that rainy day came when Bailey signed the lease. And at first, he might have wondered about that good-omen rainbow because business wasn’t great at the asphalt-paved track.

But that all changed in 2017 when he added a dirt track. “For some reason, gokart racing on dirt is more popular than racing on asphalt,” he said. Since then, “it’s been growing every year.”

Success has allowed Bailey, who bought the speedway outright in 2019, to carry out a whole series of improvements to the track itself and to the property overall.

“I’m doing this like the restoration of an old car,” he said. “I’ve done the bodywork and now I’m doing the fine details.”

The speedway is definitely a family affair. John handles just about everything related to the racing itself, from holding

the drivers’ meetings to watering down the track surface as needed. Renee runs the check-in and carries out a wide range of other duties. A daughter and granddaughter operate the food concession. The couple’s oldest daughter will become the track nurse when she finishes nursing school soon.

And as much as it’s a family-run business, Palmyra Speedway is also family-oriented when it comes to the racers from all over the region who bring their go-karts there on Friday nights.

Those competitors include Chad Miller and his dad, John, who make up

Miller Racing of Temperance. Chad’s the racer now, but he caught the bug from John, who in his day ran things like late models and dragsters.

Open-class go-karts like Chad’s run on alcohol, not gasoline, and are “very loud and very fast,” he said.

How fast? “Last year another guy and I got clocked at 75 miles an hour on the back stretch.”

Whereas Chad and his father are on the same team, when it comes to racing that’s not always the case.

Retired Lenawee County Sheriff Richard Germond died on April 30 at the age of 90.

Racers compete at Palmyra Speedway on a recent Friday evening. BRETT MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Palmyra Speedway owner John Bailey, right, and his assistant, Matthew Cox, prepare the electronic scoring system for the evening’s competition. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

A lifelong friendship

Barricklow, left, and Doris Morningstar-Bayes are pictured at a May 17 party to mark their 100th birthdays at Durkee-Seager American Legion Post 550 in Onsted. Barricklow turned 100 on May 11, and Morningstar-Bayes’ birthday was eight days later.

By Erik Gable

The Lenawee Voice

ONSTED — Some friendships come and go.

Not so for Marcella Barricklow and Doris Morningstar-Bayes, who both recently celebrated their 100th birthdays, and who have been friends for 85 years.

Though they were born just eight days apart, the two didn’t actually meet until they were teenagers. Barricklow (the former Marcella Onsted) and Morningstar-Bayes (the former Doris Dentel) attended different elementary schools, but then became friends during their freshman year at Onsted High School.

From then on, their lives paralleled each other in many ways. They doubledated with their future husbands. They graduated from high school together in 1943. And after their husbands returned from World War II, they ended up as neighbors on Shepherd Road.

Their children grew up together, too, and Barricklow’s youngest daughter, Carla, recalls that Morningstar-Bayes

was her bus driver when she was in school.

Barricklow — who worked as a bookkeeper at Onsted schools, then later went back to school at Siena Heights and taught business at what was then the Vo-Tech Center — still lives at the family farm on Shepherd Road that she and her husband bought in 1948. MorningstarBayes now lives with her daughter in Muskegon.

Barricklow turned 100 on May 11, and Morningstar-Bayes turned 100 on May 19. They celebrated together with dozens of friends and family members on May 17 at Durkee-Seager American Legion Post 550 in Onsted.

“We just had a lot of fun,” Barricklow said, thinking back over the many years that the two women have been friends. “Our kids had a lot of fun. We’ve lived a good life.”

As for favorite memories of their youth, some things will remain unwritten.

“We’ve got lots of stories,” Barricklow said with a smile. “But we’re not going to tell you.”

Tournament raises $50,000 to support Lenawee County students

ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Education Foundation hosted its annual Strokes for Students golf outing on May 20, raising approximately $50,000 to support scholarships, job readiness grants, and enrichment opportunities for Lenawee County students. Held this year at the Hills of Lenawee, the event brought together golfers from across the county, including student participants from nearly every Lenawee County district.

“This event is all about community support and student opportunity,” said John Wanke, executive director of the Lenawee County Education Foundation. “It’s a lowprofile tournament by design — we minimize expenses and prize giveaways to keep the focus where it belongs: on education.”

Since its inception, Strokes for Students has raised close to $1 million.

Marcella

The winning team at the LCEF Strokes for Students tournament was the Blissfield Community Schools team. Pictured from left to right are Kipp Fisher (Blissfield student), Eric Schmidt, Scott Riley, Ryan Gilbert, and Mike Bader.

LCEF presents scholarships to nearly 300 students

ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Education Foundation celebrated its 38th annual scholarship program on May 11, awarding 457 scholarships with a total value of $515,000 to nearly 300 students. The scholarships are made possible through the ongoing support of donors who believe in investing in students’ futures.

LCEF executive director John Wanke began the afternoon’s presentations with the Community Service Scholarships, awarded to students who applied for the Frank and Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarship. While only one student is selected each year for the $5,000 renewable scholarship (totaling $20,000 over four years), the Sage Foundation

stepped forward once again to recognize all nominees for their dedication to community service by awarding each nominee with a $1,000 scholarship.

Jim and Pam Van Doren presented the Community Service Scholarships on behalf of the Sage Foundation before Wanke announced this year’s Frank and Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarship

recipient, who was Raven Aldridge, an LISD Tech Center student from Clinton High School. Following these awards, the remaining scholarships were presented. Following is a list of scholarships and the students who earned them.

See SCHOLARSHIPS, page B4

Community Service Scholarships from the Sage Foundation were presented to all of the nominees for the Frank and Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarship. Standing, from left to right, are presenter Jim Van Doren, Troy Andrews (Tecumseh), Natalie Dickerson (Sand Creek), Raelyn Watkins (Onsted), Elise Christle (Morenci), Teagan Sullivan (Madison), Emilia Yatzek (Lenawee Christian), and presenter Pam Van Doren. Seated are Malia Grayer (Hudson), Raven Aldridge (Clinton), Elloisa Guzman (Britton Deerfield), Madeline Cole (Blissfield), Victoria Vredeveld (Adrian), and Olivia Speelman (Addison).

Community Service Scholarships (Sage Foundation): Olivia Speelman (Addison), Victoria Vredeveld (Adrian and Tech Center), Madeline Cole (Blissfield), Elloisa Guzman (Britton Deerfield), Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Malia Grayer (Hudson), Emilia Yatzek (Lenawee Christian), Teagan Sullivan (Madison), Elise Christle (Morenci), Raelyn Watkins (Onsted and Tech Center), Natalie Dickerson (Sand Creek), Troy Andrews (Tecumseh).

Frank & Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarship: Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center).

Frank & Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarships (Renewed): Wyatt Cole (Madison and Tech Center), Alauna Coleman (Madison and Tech Center).

Dick & Jan Parson First Generation Scholarship: Anjel Solis (Adrian).

Don & Lucy Mackey Memorial Health Scholarship: Lauren Howard (Adrian and Tech Center).

Adrian Women’s Club Scholarship in memory of Thelma Swigert: Katelyn Baker (Clinton), Luke Barden (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Becky and Stephanie Lay Scholarship: Katerina Goniea (LCS), Ashlyn Moorehead (Tecumseh).

Bradford & Bronson Mansfield Business Scholarship: Clarissa Berger (Morenci), Jack Laney (Tecumseh).

Brenda Bobon Memorial Scholarship: Elisabeth Rowan (Hudson).

Brenda Bobon Memorial Special Education Scholarship: James Welsh (Adrian).

Kassie Wingerd Scholarship: Mattis Riddle (Clinton).

Larry C. Camp Memorial Scholarship: Mark Goodlock (Madison and Tech Center).

Edith Walker Hong Memorial Scholarship: James Bayes (Onsted), Katie Fisher (Blissfield and Tech Center).

Edith Walker Hong Memorial “Heart of Gold” Scholarship: Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center).

Brian Bovee Scholarship: Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center).

Erin Christine Groeb Memorial Scholarship: Carli Kipke (Onsted), Raelyn Watkins (Onsted and Tech Center).

Groeb Family Scholarship: Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center).

Gregory W. Sprague Memorial Health Scholarship: Kendall Brown (Onsted).

Dr. Konda Mouli Educational Scholarship: Kendall Brown (Onsted), Lauren Johnston (Sand Creek), Emily Kilpatrick (Onsted).

Brody J. Fry Memorial Scholarship: Sam Solis (Onsted and Tech Center).

Carlos & Norma Long Agriculture Scholarship: Emerson Holsopple (LCS and Tech Center).

Dr. William J. Ross Memorial Scholarship: Malia Grayer (Hudson).

Lauryn Griewahn Memorial Scholarship: Abbigal Garbers (Hudson and Tech Center), Mae Mattson (Tecumseh).

Edward & Roberta Osburn Memorial Scholarship: Isabelle Cleveland (Adrian), Abbigal Garbers (Hudson and Tech Center).

Edward R. Schadewald Scholarship: Ruby Faulkner (Clinton), Benjamin Isaly (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center).

Eric K. Brandeberry Memorial Scholarship: Aubrey Appleman (Britton Deerfield), Marisela Fermin-Jacobo (Adrian and Tech Center), Kelsey McCarty

(Madison and Tech Center), Helayna Nieto (Adrian), Trevor Staup (Madison and Tech Center).

Glenn Martek Memorial Scholarship: Luke Manders (Onsted).

Gordy Wuethrich Memorial Scholarship: Annalise Desbrough (Clinton and Tech Center), Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield).

Harvey & Doris Carpenter Scholarship: Maria Achanbach (Hudson).

Harvey & Doris Carpenter Scholarship (Renewed): Kimberly Dennis (Tecumseh), Emily Stevenson (Tecumseh).

Isiah Stephens Memorial Scholarship: Joe Clark (Addison), Kimberly Delgado (Addison and Tech Center), Olivia Speelman (Addison), Hannah Spitzley (Addison and Tech Center), Ellie Woodcock (Addison).

Isiah Stephens Memorial Scholarship: Abyona Freeman (Clinton and Tech Center).

James and Gladys Robideau Memorial Scholarship: Emerald Sierer (Clinton, JCC Middle College and Tech Center), Kamryn Van Sickle (Clinton).

Joan Voorhees Yeutter & Lysle Yeutter Scholarship: Aubrey Appleman (Britton Deerfield).

Kathy Goetz Tribute Scholarship: Mikiah Moore (Blissfield).

Keith Eisenmann Memorial Agricultural Scholarship: Emily Burgess (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Lawn Family Scholarship: Nicholas Schefka (Adrian), Sophy Skeels (Adrian).

Long Family Foundation Scholarship in Memory of Jacquelyn Long Carson: Faith Beardmore (Sand Creek).

N. Lawrence Francoeur First Generation College Renewal Scholarship: Xander Yeager (Blissfield).

Patricia & Joseph Koszka Memorial Scholarship: Lillian Watson (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center).

Patricia Ann Driskill Memorial Scholarship: Noah Roberts (Hudson).

Pauline & Sebastian Pizaña Memorial Scholarship: Teagan Arredondo (Hudson and Tech Center), Romeo Regalado (Adrian and Tech Center).

Richard & Hazel Berlin Memorial Scholarship: Ava Schlieger (Madison and Tech Center).

Robert & Ardyth Hinsdale AgriBusiness Scholarship: Kylie Hicks (Sand Creek).

Roy E. Freeman Memorial Scholarship: Zoey Breznik (LCS).

Royce & Wilma Baker Memorial Scholarship: Adam Stutzman (Blissfield and Tech Center).

Steve Gonzalez Class of 1979 Memorial Scholarship: Isabella Morris (Adrian).

Lloyd Ruesink Memorial Scholarship: Hannah Harding (JCC Middle College), Olivia Speelman (Addison).

Richard Germond Scholarship: Olivia Speelman (Addison).

Fallen Heroes Scholarship: Jessica Scott (Adrian), Olivia Speelman (Addison).

Larry Richardson Memorial College Scholarship, presented by the Lenawee County Democratic Party: Kyleigh Cook (Clinton and Tech Center).

Coberley Legacy Scholarship: Shawn Sieler.

Harry B. Steele and Joe Ann Steele Memorial Scholarship: Samantha Stiger (Onsted).

Vincent E. Lysaght Jr. Memorial Scholarship: Faith Beardmore (Sand Creek).

Walter J. and Leota “Tom” R. McNeil Memorial Scholarship:

Jacob Bauman (Blissfield), Madilyn Bauman (Blissfield), Haven Crots (Britton Deerfield), Natalie Delmotte (Britton Deerfield), Jaylene Goen (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center), Carson Johnson (Britton Deerfield) Brock Mueller (Britton Deerfiel and Tech Center), Kyra Nighswander (Britton Deerfield), Sophie Witt (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center).

Shirley Dick Memorial P.E.O. Chapter EI Scholarship: (Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh).

William “Cal” Poppink Memorial Scholarship: Denae Covey (Sand Creek), Jillian Molnar (Britton Deerfield).

WMU Scholarship in memory of Adam Nicola-Iott: Parker Seeger (Hudson).

Adrian Community Preschool Scholarship in Memory of Shirley Dick: Sophia Curtis (Madison).

Adrian Community Preschool Scholarship in Memory of Arden Muck: Sophia Curtis (Madison).

3 Dimensional Physical Therapy (3DPT) Scholarship: Katelyn Baker (Clinton), Isabelle Brooks (LCS), Hannah Spitzley (Addison and Tech Center).

Adrian Breakfast Lions Club Scholarship: James Gregory (JCC Middle College), Georgije Jovicic (Adrian).

Al & Julie Brittain Michigan State University Scholarship: Elizabeth Hacker (Madison), Emily Stevenson (Tecumseh).

Adrian Morning Rotary Club Scholarship: Ruby Faulkner (Clinton)

Adrian Morning Rotary Club Scholarship for Adrian High School students: Kaden Banta-Martin (Adrian).

Adrian Morning Rotary Club Scholarship for Madison High School students: Bryce Jordan (Madison).

Adrian Noon Rotary Club Frank & Shirley Dick Memorial Scholarship: Kaden Banta-Martin (Adrian).

Adrian Noon Rotary Club SHU Virginia M. Murray Scholarship for Nursing: Brooklyn Hilyard (Britton Deerfield).

Adrian Noon Rotary Club 4-Way Test Essay Scholarship: Isabelle Cleveland (Adrian).

Adrian Garden Club Scholarship: Anjel Solis (Adrian).

Adrian City Commissioner Bob Behnke Scholarship: Anjel Solis (Adrian).

Alvin & Clara Schwab Scholarship: Benjamin Saxton (homeschool and Tech Center).

American Legion Auxiliary Underwood-Orr Unit 34 Tecumseh: Cooper Barkway (Tecumseh), Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

American Legion Post #97 Scholarship: Ruthi Brogan (Onsted).

Adrian College Scholarships: Raelynne Ahearn (Tecumseh), Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Ava Bower (Britton Deerfield), Zane Cherfan (LCS), Tyler Clement (Tecumseh), Jorja Deshler (Adrian), Elloisa Guzman (Britton Deerfield), Emma Houser (Hudson and Tech Center), Barron Mansfield (Hudson and Tech Center), Eric Ramsey (Clinton), Cruz Rosas (Blissfield), Sean David Samuels (Blissfield and Tech Center), Owen Strieter-Byron (Tecumseh), Brody Tinkey (Hudson).

Athena Lenawee Scholarship: Clara Barbee (Adrian).

Brazeway Inc. STEM Innovation Scholarship: Carissa Roehm (Tecumseh).

Culver’s of Adrian Scholarship: Kiara Hall (Onsted and Tech Center).

Allen H. & Nydia Meyers Foundation Scholarship: Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Katelyn Baker

(Clinton), Faith Beardmore (Sand Creek), Mason Brodie (Clinton), Aeden Coryell (Tecumseh), Olivia Hartman (Tecumseh), Gary Kemerer (Adrian), Alexis Miller (Tecumseh), Makayla Nieman (Morenci and Tech Center), Kaleb Richardson (LCS), Mattis Riddle (Clinton), Zoe Rorick (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Sophie Witt (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center).

Allen Meyers Aviation Scholarship: Addison Gudakunst (Onsted).

Nydia Meyers Chemistry Scholarship: Victoria Fraley (Britton Deerfield).

Don & Becky Fry Scholarship: Jayla Bright (Hudson), Makayla Gillentine (Britton Deerfield).

Fairfield Chapter #224 Order of Eastern Star Thelma Swigert Memorial Scholarship: Aiden Ketola (Adrian), Madelynn Ketola (Adrian).

Fleur-De-Lis Scholarship: Gabriel Venerable (Adrian).

Farver Foundation Business Scholarship: Clarissa Berger (Morenci), Ciara Ernst (Adrian), Xander Yeager (Blissfield).

Frank & Shirley Dick Lenawee Economic Development Corp. Scholarship: Jack Laney (Tecumseh).

FFA Alumni Scholarship — Ken Bollinger Award: Annalise Desbrough (Clinton and Tech Center).

FFA Alumni Scholarship — Lenawee County: Emerson Holsopple (LCS and Tech Center), Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield).

Anderson Development Company — Adrian High School Scholarship: Gary Kemerer (Adrian).

Anderson Development Company — Family Scholarship: Alexander Czeiszperger (Hudson).

Anderson Development Company Scholarships: Aeden Coryell (Tecumseh), Andrew Fair (Clinton), Alexis Miller (Tecumseh), Brody Tinkey (Hudson).

Charles & Glenna Tipton First Generation Scholarship: Jennifer Baker (Tecumseh), Samantha Baker (Tecumseh), Joseph Casanova (Madison), Licci Martinez (Blissfield), Caden Natale (Hudson), Jaelondra Peterson (Adrian), Amya Scott (Hudson), Samantha Stiger (Onsted), Victoria Vredeveld (Adrian and Tech Center), Lyric Walker (Adrian), Sapphira Williams (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Xander Yeager (Blissfield).

Elizabeth Ruthruff Wilson Dedicated Musician Award: Lila Brighton (Adrian), Madelynn Ketola (Adrian), Keira Naegele (LCS), Nicholas Schefka (Adrian).

Elizabeth Wilson Memorial College Scholarship (Renewed): Jonathan Dahn (Tecumseh), Regina Madziar (Tecumseh), Belle Mattson (Tecumseh), Hailie Medley (Blissfield), Karlee Witte (Addison).

Free2Play Scholarship: Erika Meckley (Sand Creek).

Gray Institute Scholarship: Ashlyn Moorehead (Tecumseh).

Lenawee County Superintendents’ Association Scholarship: Erika Meckley (Sand Creek).

I-92 Ministries Scholarship: Kaylee Kranz (Clinton).

Inteva Products LLC Scholarship: Jacob Gilson (Clinton).

Jillian Rine Skilled Trades Scholarship: Michael Gout (Clinton).

Jackson College Scholarship: Andrew Fair (Clinton), Libby Rorick (Morenci and Tech Center).

Harry, Bernice & Marda Gene Duncan Scholarship: Emma Newlove (Tecumseh), Emily Stevenson (Tecumseh).

Kayner Family Scholarship: Aiden Espinoza (Madison and Tech Center), Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center), Julien Kimling (Hudson and Tech Center), Samson Schaffner (Clinton), Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

LandS Scholarship: Julia Lehman (Onsted), Brandon Mannlein (Clinton), Gabe Muro (Morenci), Alexander Sherman (Tecumseh).

Lenawee County Association of School Boards Special Education Scholarship: Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center).

Lenawee County Association of Realtors Scholarship: Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Emerson Holsopple (LCS and Tech Center), Cayden Staib (Adrian).

Lenawee County Commissioners Scholarship: Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh).

Lenawee County NAACP Citizenship Scholarship: Abyona Freeman (Clinton and Tech Center), Samson Schaffner (Clinton).

Lenawee County Republican Party Scholarship: Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield).

Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship: Denae Covey (Sand Creek), Seth Davis (LCS), Gary Kemerer (Adrian), Paige Luck (Sand Creek), Luke Manders (Onsted), Zoe Rorick (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Avery Sieler (JCC Middle College), Sam Solis (Onsted and Tech Center).

Kelly Carter Scholarship: Chase Hiram (Onsted), Ashleigh Smith (Onsted and Tech Center).

Lucy Wolcott Barnum Chapter DAR Scholarship: Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Kyleigh Cook (Clinton and Tech Center), Mae Mattson (Tecumseh).

Lawrence & Wilma Johnson Scholarship: Abigail Culbertson (Britton Deerfield), Ruby Faulkner (Clinton), Eden Frederick (Clinton and Tech Center), Emma Halchishak (Clinton and Tech Center), Benjamin Isaly (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center), Lainey Johnston (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Jason Mullins (JCC Middle College and Tech Center), Helayna Nieto (Adrian), Preston Rodriguez (Adrian and Tech Center), Samson Schaffner (Clinton), Amya Scott (Hudson), Brodie Stipe (Clinton), Abigail Sutka (Onsted and Tech Center), Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Logan Wright (Clinton and Tech Center).

Lynn and Darlene Southward Health Scholarship: Emerald Sierer (Clinton, JCC Middle College and Tech Center), Victoria Vredeveld (Adrian and Tech Center).

Maple City Men’s Garden Club Scholarship: Lillian Helinski (Onsted).

Lenawee County 4-H Council Scholarship: Sophia Curtis (Madison), Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield), Emma Reckner (Sand Creek).

Lenawee County 4-H Council Scholarship — Junior Livestock in Memory of Tory Clark, Lyndi Bailey and Brian McMillen: Gretchen Gautz (Onsted), Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield), Caleb Luck (Sand Creek), Holly Mitchell (homeschool), Owen Plum (Britton Deerfield), Brody Tinkey (Hudson), Ellie Woodcock (Addison), Owen Plum (Britton Deerfield).

Lenawee County 4-H Council Scholarship — McKown Family: Abyona Freeman (Clinton and Tech Center), Ava Mitchell (Addison and Tech Center).

Mary Kilgore Vallad Nursing Scholarship: Tyler Ganun (Blissfield), Madalyn Miller (Madison), Paige Shankland (Clinton).

Tech Center Scholarships — Citizens Gas Fuel Company: Sam Solis (Onsted and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — Gleaner Life Insurance Society: Wyatt Stevens (Morenci and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — James Philp Trades Scholarship: Kristina Phillips (Clinton and Tech Center)

Tech Center Scholarships — Lenawee County Dental Community: Lauren Howard (Adrian and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — Nursing Prep: Jenna Ferguson (Adrian and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — Cottingham Family: Lainey Johnston (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — Mark Pfister Memorial funded by Clift Buick GMC: Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Tech Center Scholarships — Bell and Clift Automotive: Luke Barden (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Maurice & Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation Arts Scholarship: Peyton Conolly (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Ava Roesler (Clinton).

Maurice & Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation Arts Scholarship (Renewed): Yuki Nakamura (LCS).

Maurice & Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation Engineering Scholarship: Daniel Haddix (Tecumseh), Bianca Miller (Onsted), Alejandro Perez (Adrian), Leah Rorick (Morenci).

Maurice & Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation Engineering Scholarship (Renewed): Caleb Albright (Tecumseh).

Partners in Hope Scholarship: Ayden McKimmy (Madison).

Stanley Caine Adrian College Scholarship: Wyatt Berger (Morenci).

Lenawee County Holstein Association Scholarship: Hannah Baker (LCS), Emma Brighton (Sand Creek), Emily Burgess (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Sophia Curtis (Madison), Annalise Desbrough (Clinton and Tech Center), Kylie Hicks (Sand Creek), Emerson Holsopple (LCS and Tech Center), Lia Kurowicki (Blissfield), Grant Long (LCS), Caleb Luck (Sand Creek), Ava Mitchell (Addison and Tech Center), Renee Ramsey (Onsted), Preston Rodriguez (Adrian and Tech Center), Anjel Solis (Adrian), Averi Stoll (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Adam Stutzman (Blissfield and Tech Center), Blain Wheeler (Sand Creek).

Milton C. & Margaret L. Porter

Adrian College Teacher Education Scholarship: Ambrose Horwath (Hudson), Jillian Molnar (Britton Deerfield).

Milton C. & Margaret L. Porter

Special Education Scholarship: Emma Reatherford (LCS).

ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital Scholarship (Renewed): Tyler Ganun (Blissfield), Samantha Stiger (Onsted).

Otto & Marian Meier Scholarship: Carly Anschuetz (Madison), Lyndsey Benschoter (Tecumseh), Christian Blohm (Tecumseh), Natalie Bullinger (Tecumseh), Katie Fischer (Adrian), Loryn Frederick (Morenci), Tyler Ganun (Blissfield), Gracie Jennings (Sand Creek), Ashlee Pelham (Onsted).

Rod & Karen Pender Scholarship: Hannah Baker (LCS).

Zoe Rorick (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Anjel Solis (Adrian).

Premier Bank Hispanic Scholarship: Anjel Solis (Adrian).

Siena Heights University Scholarship: Renee Awad (Adrian and Tech Center), Jennifer Baker (Tecumseh), Samantha Baker (Tecumseh), Libby Batchelder (Tecumseh), Madelyn Blohm (Madison and Tech Center), Jayla Bright (Hudson), Joe Clark (Addison), Braden Conn (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Brecken Enders (Adrian), Mikalah Hill (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Brooklyn Hilyard (Britton Deerfield), Lauren Kilbarger (Tecumseh), Cash McGillLara (Madison and Tech Center), McKayla Sares (Blissfield and Tech Center), Reilan Sayler (Blissfield and Tech Center), Jacob Small (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Gabriel Venerable (Adrian), Jessica Warren (Tecumseh and Tech Center), William Winckles (Adrian).

Sister Eileen Rice Teacher Education Scholarship: Lyndsey Benschoter (Tecumseh).

Spring Arbor University Scholarship: Madeline Cole (Blissfield).

Strokes for Students Scholarships: Heath Burton (Addison), Cassidy Hawken (Adrian), Kipp Fisher (Blissfield), Caden Freeman (Britton Deerfield), Raven Aldridge (Clinton and Tech Center), Braylyn Borck (Hudson), Parker Bell (LCS), Madeline Osburn (Sand Creek and Tech Center), Mya Solis (Madison), Elise Christle (Morenci), Lillian Helinski (Onsted), Makena Paige Wheeler (Sand Creek), Dalton Keathley (Tecumseh).

Strokes for Students Scholarship — Leadership: Luke Barden (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh).

Tebo Family Scholarship: Ellie Woodcock (Addison).

Tecumseh Area Soccer Club Scholarship: Randen Marogi (Tecumseh), Chesney Wilke (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Youth Theatre Scholarship: Samantha Baker (Tecumseh), Luke Barden (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh).

David S. Hickman Leadership Scholarship: Rita Marogi (Tecumseh).

David S. Hickman Leadership Scholarship (Renewed): Brooke Leisenring (LCS), Emma Shankland (Clinton).

Don & Dorothy Smith First Generation Scholarship: Ava Bower (Britton Deerfield), Micajah Briggs (Madison), Royce Goold (Madison), Gavin Marks (Sand Creek), Rita Marogi (Tecumseh), Sean David Samuels (Blissfield and Tech Center), Lucy Skampo (Adrian).

The Fab 4 Scholarship: Madeline Cole (Blissfield), Carissa Roehm (Tecumseh).

Rex and Mary Martin Scholarship: Patrick Leake (Adrian), Ben Schefka (Adrian).

Russ & Carol Fenner Family Scholarship Fund: Brodie Stipe (Clinton).

Thomas H. and Jeanette C. Meyer Educator Scholarship: Owen StrieterByron (Tecumseh).

Thomas Marvin Scholarship: Clarissa Berger (Morenci), Kyleigh Cook (Clinton and Tech Center), Alexander Czeiszperger (Hudson), Evelyn Elliott (Adrian), Tanana Emmendorfer (Sand Creek), Xander Finkbeiner (Adrian), Kipp Fisher (Blissfield), Halle Horwath (Madison), Kyle Kilbarger (Tecumseh), Jack Laney (Tecumseh), William Mackey (Adrian and Tech Center), Malaki Mosher (Madison and Tech Center).

Tipton Pythian Sisters Scholarship: Callie Anderson (LCS).

TLC Community Credit Union Scholarship: Diego Juarez (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Cayden Staib (Adrian), Kamryn Van Sickle (Clinton).

Wildcat Athletic Boosters Memorial Scholarship: James Bayes (Onsted) Alison England (Onsted), Addison Gudakunst (Onsted), Aidan Paquin (Onsted).

Women Educators Scholarship: Claire Molnar (Britton Deerfield), Jillian Molnar (Britton Deerfield).

Tecumseh Kiwanis Scholarship: Luke Barden (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Libby Batchelder (Tecumseh), Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh), Aeden Coryell (Tecumseh), Daniel Haddix (Tecumseh), Olivia Hartman (Tecumseh), Lauren Kilbarger (Tecumseh), Rita Marogi (Tecumseh), Madison Morris (Tecumseh), Jazlyn Reau (Tecumseh), Carissa Roehm (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — “Coach” Vic Lawson Family Scholarship: Alexander Sherman (Tecumseh), Lucas Stiver (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Bedore Family Scholarship: Carissa Roehm (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Bertha LaPointe Scholarship: Lucy Dusseau-Thompson (Tecumseh), Bella Juozapaitis (Tecumseh), Lauren Kilbarger (Tecumseh), Jack Laney (Tecumseh), Alexis Miller (Tecumseh), Ryan Mossburg (Tecumseh), Maia Peoples (Tecumseh), Grace Slusarski (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Charles & Doris Hand Scholarship: Ashlyn Moorehead (Tecumseh), Owen Williams (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Eleanor Johnson Scholarship: Aubrey Baur (Tecumseh), Charlotte Fults (Tecumseh), Madison Morris (Tecumseh), Emily Stevenson (Tecumseh), Jessica Wilkinson (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Gerald Nelson Scholarship: Troy Andrews (Tecumseh), Aldo Barba (Tecumseh), Gabrielle Brigman (Tecumseh), Emily Burgess (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Aeden Coryell (Tecumseh), Kyle Kilbarger (Tecumseh), Jacob Small (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Sapphira Williams (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Irene Boltz Scholarship: Emma Newlove (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Lillian Buttolph Scholarship: Natalie Bullinger (Tecumseh), Elle Nowak (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Louise Lawson Family Scholarships: Olivia Hartman (Tecumseh), Libby Batchelder (Tecumseh).

Lenawee County 4-H Council Scholarship — Rome Blue Ribbons in Honor of Harvey and Rosie Warrick: Renee Ramsey (Onsted).

Vernon & Alice Pratt Foundation 4-H Scholarships: Eleanora Andre (Adrian), Taylor Iott (Blissfield), Logan Irwin (Onsted and Tech Center),

Lenawee 40 & 8 Nurses Training Scholarships: Lani Cameron (Tecumseh), Taylor Carlson (Tecumseh), Loryn Frederick (Morenci), Wyatt MacLachlan (Tecumseh and Tech Center), Natalie Morr (LCS and Tech Center), Libby Rorick (Morenci and Tech Center), Jessica Scott (Adrian), Paige Shankland (Clinton), Braylon Stover (Morenci), Lillian Watson (Britton Deerfield and Tech Center), Owen Williams (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Mensing Family Scholarship: Sloan Smith (Tecumseh).

Tecumseh Schools Foundation — Schaedler Scholarship: Wyatt MacLachlan (Tecumseh and Tech Center).

For more information about the Lenawee County Education Foundation, go to www.lisd.us/page/ lenawee-county-education-foundation. Scholarships from page B4

Fishes & Loaves pantry moves to new location inside Methodist church

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — The Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry has a new location in Adrian. The food pantry moved from its previous location at 423 W. Maumee St., and officially opened at the First United Methodist Church of Adrian on May 16.

Fishes & Loaves, which started in 2010, is part of Neighbors of Hope, a nonprofit based in Adrian. Pastor Steven Palmer, executive director of the agency, said the move to the Methodist church came after donations dropped off after the pandemic, and the board decided it was time to restructure the agency.

The building at the previous location was sold, and Palmer contacted First United Methodist about using some of their space for the food pantry. He said First United Methodist was the first partner he thought of for a new location because the two organizations “share a parallel social ministries vision.”

“We’re both very keen and interested and committed and passionate about helping the disenfranchised in the community, particularly those who are experiencing food insecurities,” Palmer said.

The Rev. Alice Ford of First United Methodist Church echoed Palmer’s vision of bringing together two groups that are committed to bringing food to those in need.

“Adrian First does a lot of food-based ministry, so we had enough space to be able to bring the food pantry in and to

partner with Neighbors of Hope in that ministry,” she said.

The move to the new location started a few months ago, said Cheri Constable, Fishes & Loaves pantry manager. She said that about 50,000 pounds of food was moved from the old location to the new one.

The move is “still a work in progress,” Ford said.

Approximately 3,000 pounds of food are given out each month, Palmer said. Fishes & Loaves participants can receive an allotment every 30 days, Palmer said, which complements and supplements other food pantries in the area.

Eligibility for the food pantry is based on income and family size, Constable said. Birth certificates are needed for children under 18 for families that are applying for assistance.

The income limit is 150% of the lowincome level set by the United States Department of Agriculture, and proof of income is required. Participants need to reside in Lenawee County, and proof of residency is required.

Shopping at the food pantry is by appointment only. Appointments can be made over the phone. The food pantry door is located at Door 8 on the south side of the church. Hours for the food pantry are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

The Fishes & Loaves pantry can be reached by phone at 517-759-4421, or by email at flpantry@neighborsofhope.com.

ADRIAN GARDEN CLUB’S GARDEN OF THE MONTH

The gardens of Mary and John Roberts on Stockford Drive in Adrian were chosen as this year’s first Garden of the Month by the Adrian Garden Club. Mary learned gardening from her mother growing up in Gaylord. The front yard is full of annuals and perennials and the back yard is made up of vegetable gardens.

Pictured at the new location of the Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry are Pastor Steven Palmer, executive director of Neighbors of Hope; Cheri Constable, Fishes & Loaves pantry manager; Conner Raymond, First United Methodist Church office manager; the Rev. Alice Ford, pastor of First United Methodist Church; and Marie Bonkowski, Fishes & Loaves volunteer.

JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Civitan is the force behind Adrian’s annual July 4 parade

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

developmental disabilities, she added. The club currently has 65 participants.

“The mission of Civitan is to build good citizenship by providing a volunteer organization of clubs dedicated to service those affected with disabilities,” Steep continued.

SERVICE CLUB ROUNDUP

ADRIAN — Since the mid-1980s, Civitan of Lenawee has sponsored the Fourth of July Parade in downtown Adrian, and that tradition will continue this year. The city of Adrian will also be involved in parade planning this year, as part of the fourday bicentennial celebration.

Civitan of Lenawee parade coordinator Carolyn Marr said that parade planning will start on June 1, when those interested in participating in the parade can contact her to register. There will also be a link on the city of Adrian website for registration.

Marr said she encourages registration so she can get an idea of how many participants to expect. There is no limit to the number of participants in the parade, she said, and there is no cost to register for the parade. The parade runs east on Maumee Street from Greenly Street to Monument Park.

Interested participants can sign up as late as a few days before the parade, Marr said, but she does discourage people from just joining in on the day of the parade. Marr said each participant, whether group or individual, has a designated spot in the lineup and the parade, and registration is necessary to assign those spots.

Marr said that although Civitan is seeking a wide variety of parade participants, “we don’t allow hateful messages.” The group also discourages religious messages.

“We want it to be open to everyone,” she continued. “You just have to act appropriately.”

Danielle Stepp, president of Civitan of Lenawee, said that, in the past, there have been problems with groups with opposing views being located too close to each other in parade lineup.

“We have them line up on separate streets,” she said. “It worked, and everybody’s been fine with it.”

“The mission of the parade is community and having a good time on a national holiday,” Marr said.

Parade lineup starts at 9 a.m. on the Fourth of July, and the parade itself begins at 11 a.m.

Stepp said the parade supports the Three Pillars of Civitan, which are service, knowledge and fellowship. Civitan supports people with intellectual and

LISD

recognizes

“We do things outside of that, too, and the parade is part of that,” she said.

“I encourage kids with bikes or pets or animals of any kind to participate in the parade,” Marr said. “Also, musicians or clowns, anything different that would be enjoyable by the people watching.”

Civitan does expect parade participants to clean up after their animals throughout the parade route.

To register for the Fourth of July Parade, contact Marr at 734-418-8870 or email tcrhythms@tc3net.com. The city of Adrian website also has a link for online registration.

Glow with Zonta: Zonta Club of Lenawee will host “Glow with Zonta,” a women’s event, on Thursday, June 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at County National Bank, 209 E. Russell Road, Tecumseh.

The goal is to bring women together from across the community “to connect, foster meaningful relationships, and stand in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence,” according to a press release.

Admission in $20. Guests are encouraged to bring feminine hygiene products to support the Catherine Cobb Safe House, which provides critical services to women and children in crisis. Organizations and individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact the club at zontacluboflenawee@gmail.com. More information is available on Facebook at facebook.com/ZontaofLenawee.

Kiwanis Club of Adrian: The Kiwanis Club of Adrian meets on Wednesdays from noon to 1 p.m. at The Centre, 1800 U.S. 223, Adrian. The club will host a Membership Mingle Luncheon on Wednesday, June 18. The public is invited to join in an hour of connections, community, and conversation, and to learn about the club, its programs, and how people can get involved. RSVPs are requested by June 14 to Heather Pearce at 517-403-4557.

Adrian Morning Rotary: The Adrian Morning Rotary Club meets on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 7 a.m. at The Centre, located at 1800 U.S. 223 in Adrian. Guests are welcome.

excellence

in auto repair and refinish program

ADRIAN — The Lenawee Intermediate School District recognized the achievements of students in the Automotive Collision Repair and Refinish program at the ninth annual Mark Pfister Top Gun Award ceremony, held on May 6 at the LISD Tech Center.

This year’s Top Gun Award was presented to Alexander Cubberly, a second-year student from Addison High School. According to a news release from the LISD, the award recognizes that Cubberly has demonstrated not only exceptional technical skills, but also integrity, leadership, and commitment to excellence — core traits that reflect the spirit of the award’s namesake. The award honors the legacy of Mark Pfister, a beloved instructor in the Automotive Collision Repair and Refinish program who died in 2016 after a battle with cancer.

Alexander Cubberly

“Each year, we select students who embody the same values Mark lived by — honesty, integrity, hard work, and family,” instructor Kortney Thumme said.

In addition to Cubberly, this year’s finalists included were Gustavo Morales (Adrian High School), Seth Craiger (Tecumseh), and Pierce Wilhelm (Tecumseh).

Jill Hicks, Rudy Flores, and Jeanette Henagan and were honored on May 2 by the Lenawee County Bar Association.

Liberty Bell Award presented to Rudy Flores

ADRIAN — The association that represents lawyers in Lenawee County recently honored Rudy Flores of Adrian with its first annual Liberty Bell Award.

The May 2 presentation came on the day after Law Day, which was first declared by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1958.

Katarina DuMont, president of the Lenawee County Bar Association, said the Liberty Bell Award is intended to honor individuals who have given their time and effort to strengthen the principles of liberty and justice provided in the U.S. Constitution.

Flores is an advocate for migrant and seasonal farmworkers as well as immigrant communities. He began his career in human services in 1992, and currently works for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. He has served on the boards of Adrian Public Schools, the Adrian Rea Literacy Center, ProMedica, and the Adrian chapter of LLEAD (Latino Leaders for Enhancement, Advocacy and Development). He was recently appointed to the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan.

The Lenawee County Bar Association also recognized Jeanette Henagan and Jill Hicks.

Henagan is a child welfare caseworker for the Lenawee County Department of Health and Human Services, where she has been employed for 38 years. She is the president of the Lenawee NAACP. Hicks is the executive director of the Catherine Cobb Safe House in Adrian, which supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

H.E.R. Refuge spreads hope with May Day

basket deliveries

H.E.R. Refuge board members brightened the day for local businesses this May Day by delivering flower baskets throughout Lenawee County. Each delivery brought smiles and sparked conversations, while raising awareness for the organization’s mission to provide healing, empowerment and restoration for teen girls in crisis.

H.E.R. Refuge is a nonprofit organization with a goal to establish a free, biblically-based, long-term residential treatment program for girls ages 13 to 17 who are battling overwhelming mental and emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance use disorders, and eating disorders as well as those who are survivors of trauma. To learn more, go to her-refuge.org.

Farm to Table Dinner on Aug. 15 will benefit Habitat for Humanity programs

By Deidre Gilbert The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Giving back to the community one plate at a time.

That’s the theme for the annual Habitat for Humanity Farm to Table event, set for Friday, Aug. 15 at Adrian College. The event will take place in the Tobias Room and tickets are $75 each.

Carrie Hartley, director of development and marketing for Habitat, said Farm to Table was launched in 2018 to mark Habitat for Humanity’s 30th anniversary. The ingredients and foods served are from local farmers and vendors, she said. Local music duo Scott & Melissa will provide entertainment. A silent auction with curated experiences such as Detroit Lions tickets and fudgemaking at Buzz Cafe and Marketplace will be featured.

Hartley said the annual event brings awareness and support for affordable housing, while also “celebrating local agriculture, business partnerships, and the community spirit.”

“This is an opportunity to tell our impact stories and bring awareness to the housing crisis in Lenawee County,” Hartley said. Every year, Habitat builds at least three new homes for different families. By doing this, Habitat has added more than 90 homes to the community. They also work with

families doing critical repairs on their homes.

Proceeds from the benefit will support Habitat’s mission.

“This dinner is the result of a desire to fundraise in ways that honor Habitat’s values: local, intentional and collaborative,” Hartley said.

She noted that the dinner would not be possible without the contribution of time, resources, and the generous financial support from Habitat staff and board members, and dedicated

COLLEGE COMMENCEMENTS

volunteers, local farmers, small businesses, musicians and the event staff and Sodexo teams at Adrian College.

“This dinner allows any person who wants to contribute to the housing crisis the ability to do so while also building relationships with new people and businesses,” Hartley said. “This is one of the most uplifting nights of the year.”

She added: “It reminds me that solving big challenges like housing isn’t just about hammers and nails — it’s about heart.”

Ralph and Ginny Tillotson, longtime donors of corn to Habitat for Humanity’s Farm to Table Dinner, are pictured at the 2024 dinner with Pam Van Doren, representing the Sage Foundation.

Adrian College graduate Keegan Ames of Hudson takes part in the commencement tradition of petting the college mascot, Bruiser the Bulldog, during graduation ceremonies on May 4.

MICKEY ALVARADO/ADRIAN COLLEGE

Siena Heights University graduate Ayanna Johnson of Battle Creek waves to the crowd while walking across the stage to receive her degree during SHU’s Adrian campus commencement ceremony on May 3.

LAURA HARVEY/SHU

Siena Heights graduate Makenna Horn of Tecumseh receives her degree from university president Douglas B. Palmer during commencement on May 3. LAURA HARVEY/SHU

Forrest Vernier of Sand Creek waves after accepting his bachelor’s degrees during Adrian College’s graduation.

One-room schoolhouse memories

Gleaner Life recovers and donates pieces of Adrian Township’s old Maynard School, built in 1875

ADRIAN TWP. — Adrian Township’s one-room Maynard School was built in 1875 — 150 years ago — and educated generations of children on Hamilton Highway. Its era as a school ended six decades ago. It was first converted into a house, and finally torn down about 35 years ago. Yet its memory endures in photographs, a group of its final students, and three pieces of concrete.

On April 21, Gleaner Life Insurance Society recovered and donated the three pieces once located above the door of the school. Their inscriptions read “Adrian Township School Dist. No. 8” with an “1875” keystone. Former Maynard School students Melvin Snyder and Mary Alice Thompson donated the pieces to the Lenawee Historical Society.

A century ago, Lenawee County had well over 100 one-room buildings providing primary education for thousands of students. The schools and generations of area families are closely connected. Melvin Snyder noted the school’s lot was sold by John Winnie to Adrian Township District No. 8 in 1870 for $80. John Winnie also owned the adjacent farm. His son, Edwin Winnie, sold the farm to Melvin Snyder’s grandfather, Edward Snyder, in 1913. Melvin’s grandmother, Minnie Snyder, was the director of the school in the 1920s.

When Minnie Snyder was School No. 8’s director in 1925, the school had 37 students. Grades originally were from kindergarten through eighth grade. Mel’s father, Arthur Snyder, also attended the Maynard school from about 19181925, and Mel’s mother taught there from 1936-1939. They sold their farm in 1980 to Gleaner Life Insurance Society, which also purchased the adjacent property with the former school building, converted by then into a house.

The school’s teachers often were recent high school graduates. Ida Woodruff, the teacher shown in a 1919 outdoor photo, was 18. Mel Snyder’s mother, Fern (Jones) Snyder, had just graduated from Clinton High School when she began teaching in 1936. During her four years as the school’s teacher, she lived at the Snyder farm and there she met Art Snyder. They were married in 1941. Fern Snyder later taught at Onsted Elementary School. Mel Snyder’s list of earlier teachers includes Florence Rexford (1896), Mary C. Mapes (191819), Ida Woodruff (1919-20), Mildred Armstrong (1920-21), Igerna Croll (1921-22), Mildred Armstrong (192223) and Leota Vollmer (1923-26). After Fern (Jones) Snyder left, classes were taught by Mrs. Doris Skinner (1940-41), who lived on Budlong Street in Adrian. Another teacher during the school’s final decade of operation was Madeline Boff. Mel Snyder reported the school’s last two teachers were Bonnie Enders (1952-54) and Carrie Cunningham (1954-58).

Many teachers a century ago were recent high school graduates who received brief but specialized training at what were called “normal schools” (from the French phrase “ecole normale,” meaning “model school”). Lenawee County’s Normal School began in 1907 in Blissfield, moved to Clayton in 1949, and moved to Adrian in 1954, with the final class graduating May 25, 1955.

“They didn’t go to a college for four years. They were young,” Mary Alice Thompson said.

Mel Snyder’s mother, Fern, was one of them. “My mom graduated in 1936 from [Clinton’s] school and then she began teaching that same year,” he said.

Although Maynard School teachers usually were young and taught large classes, their pupils excelled. Many students became well-known local leaders. The Brittain family sent generations of children to School No. 8. Allan Brittain served as CEO and later chairman of the board of the Bank of Lenawee, and helped lead the Lenawee County Education Foundation. His father, Therol, and his grandfather, Clarence, had attended Maynard School. Some of the other familiar local family names included Pfister, Marquis, Marvin, Iffland, Yeutter and Crist.

Robert “Ike” Westfall, a son of Adrian Steel founder Bob Westfall, attended Maynard School.

“I remember when we didn’t have a telephone,” Brittain said of growing up in that era. He added that he now better appreciates the importance of history and how it shapes us. “I don’t give enough credit to what I learned in that building.”

Mary Alice Younglove (wearing a white bow in the 1919 photo) later graduated from Adrian College in 1935. She became a Michigan teacher near Frankfort, married, and ended up owning a Frankfort clothing store for 61 years until her death in 2003 at age 91.

Many of the Maynard School’s graduates, including Therol Brittain and Medford Pfister, later served on its school board. Therol Brittain also served as Adrian Township treasurer.

“My dad passed away as treasurer of Adrian Township. He served,” Allan Brittain said. “He had an eighth-grade education, which doesn’t mean anything to me except as a record. But my dad — and my grandfather, for that matter — were very mechanically inclined. My dad could make anything and do welding and farm work. I learned a lot from them.”

Mary Alice Thompson pointed to one unique advantage the one-room education system offered students. “In a one-room, country school you have this one room with all the desks in it,” she explained. “When it’s third grade math, you’d go up front and sit in those chairs. Everybody else can’t help but hear. So,

you could progress at your ability and how badly you wanted to advance just by listening to the others because you were exposed to each grade level and each topic.”

Brittain remembered enrollment grew too large for the building so, when he entered eighth grade in 1949, he was sent to Adrian Public Schools. Sixth grade became Maynard School’s oldest grade. Even in the 1950s, the school was much different than today’s classrooms. “There was a door that went into the classroom, but in the middle was a shelf with a bucket,” Thompson recalled. “We had to go out and pump a bucket full of water and bring it in. You had a common dipper and everyone drank from it. Nobody died, nobody got anything serious from it.”

“Heat for the building was an indoor furnace right in the room. You put coal and wood in it and that’s what heated the building,” Brittain said. He also remembered the area behind the school had separate outhouses, one for boys toward one side of the property, and another for girls on the opposite side.

See SCHOOLHOUSE, page B10

Mary Alice Thompson, Gleaner Life Insurance Society president and CEO Todd Warner, and Melvin Snyder are shown with the three recovered concrete pieces that stood above the entrance of Maynard School on Hamilton Highway. The pieces read “Adrian Township” and “School Dist. No. 8” on the left and right, and “1875” on the keystone. GLEANER LIFE PHOTO

The Maynard school on Hamilton Highway west of Adrian in 1919. Sitting: Arthur Snyder, Lewellyn Garrison, Harley Crist, George Maynard, Richard Brittain, Pierson Rathbun, Leroy Younglove, and Charles Rathbun. Standing: Olen Iffland, Elizabeth Brittain, Mary Alice Younglove, Gladys Crist, Ida Woodruff (the teacher, 18 years old), Marcella Rathbun, Grace Prichard, Marjorie Cuer, Therol Brittain, and on the fence: Carson Garrison, Llewellyn (Bill) Crist, and George Rathbun. MELVIN SNYDER PHOTO COLLECTION

Speedway

from page

Karen van Pelt of Clayton, who got interested in go-karts when she came to the speedway years ago to watch her son race and lays claim to having been the first woman to race there, now competes against her brother, Don Gehring.

“Out there, we’re not brother and sister,” she said.

“I’m not going to let her beat me if I can help it,” Gehring countered.

Van Pelt has also competed against her kids and even had one of them hit her during a race. “I tried to go back after him,” she said.

For her, racing is all about “the rush, the adrenaline,” and the chance to show what she can do against the men and against racers who are generally quite a bit younger than she is.

“I’m 50 years old and I’m up against all these young people,” she said. And she’s been successful at it. Although it took her eight years of trying, she became track champion in her class.

Not far where van Pelt was prepping her go-kart, another set of sibling competitors, Paige and Zoe Herzig of Temperance, aged 13 and 14 respectively, were getting ready for their own laps on the track.

As is the case for many of the track’s racers, go-karts are a generational thing for the Herzig sisters. The two are following in the footsteps of their grandfather and father.

Schoolhouse from page B9

The school had a few pieces of playground equipment outside where students could enjoy recess and lunchtime. Students often played softball on the north side of the property.

“Our mothers would come at least once in the spring and they’d have a ball team against the kids’ team,” Thompson said. “I remember Mel’s mother and my mother in their dresses, up to bat. It was just a hoot.”

Michigan consolidated thousands of small, rural school districts after World War II. Buses, paved roads and centralized districts made it unnecessary to operate schools every few miles. Lenawee County had 183 school districts in 1947, but that was consolidated to 127 in 1954, and was squeezed into 32 by 1956. By 1967, only 12 public school districts existed. The Maynard School was annexed to Adrian Public Schools on June 8, 1954, as Adrian #13. Bathrooms and a lunchroom were added. After the school was closed, it was used as

The thrill of competition is what draws both of the teens to the sport. “I just really like driving,” Zoe said.

And, like van Pelt and her brother, the Herzig sisters leave family ties behind when they’re racing. “We like banging up against each other,” Paige said.

So who wins more often? “Zoe,” Paige admitted.

The Herzigs are just two of the many youngsters who are Speedway regulars.

Maaze Keene, 13, of Lambertville is already in his fourth season of gokarting. He got into the sport because of

his interest in NASCAR — and his go-kart even sports the number and the black color of a certain motorsports racing legend: Dale Earnhardt.

Keene, who won the track championship in his class last year, competes in a class of go-karts that uses a restrictor plate to limit the speed, but even so, hits 35 or 40 mph on the track.

What makes racing fun for him? His answer was simple: “Everything.”

As Keene talked about his racing experiences and the friends he’s made along the way, one of those friends

the Croswell School for children with special needs from 1954 to 1961. It was leased for storage for one year in 1965 by the Lenawee Historical Society, which held at least two public tours there. The

Adrian school district sold the building to a local resident in April 1969 for $6,100. It was being used for private housing in 1980 when Gleaner Life purchased both the Maynard property and the surrounding

came up to join in the conversation.

Gannon Massengill of Temperance, 9 years old and also a 2024 track champion, has already been racing for three and a half years. And, like his friend, he loves his chosen sport: “Just going out there and competing,” he said.

If Keene and Massengill eventually follow their racing dreams into bigger and better things, track owner Bailey couldn’t be happier to be one of the people who helped give them their start.

“One of my slogans,” he said, “is ‘I grow racecar drivers here.’ ”

Snyder farm. For about a decade the old building was used by renters. Finally, after one of the tenants “trashed” the house, Gleaner president and CEO Frank Dick had the building taken down sometime around 1989 or 1990.

“He said he had it torn down because people were breaking into it and he was afraid somebody was going to get hurt,” Mel Snyder recalled.

Allan Brittain recalled teasing Frank Dick about that. “I’d say, ‘Frank, you tore my school down!’ He’d always get a kick out of that and say, ‘Yeah, well, it was getting run down and people misusing it.’”

A few of the building’s bricks were saved. The three curved pieces of concrete beneath the entrance side’s roof ridge were located and recovered in April by Gleaner Life employees Kevin Stange and Todd Frederick.

On June 8, 2024, former students held their first school reunion at a potluck dinner hosted by Thompson. Another reunion may take place in 2026, Thompson reported.

— Story and photos provided by Gleaner Life Insurance Society

The track at Palmyra Speedway, seen from the air. DRONE PHOTO BY BRANDON MORLEY

B1

Sisters off the track, competitors behind the wheel: Zoe Herzig, 14, and her sister Paige, 13, of Temperance may be siblings, but they race against each other on the track.

Gannon Massengill, 9, of Temperance shows off his go-kart on a recent Friday at Palmyra Speedway. PHOTOS BY ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

Former students of Maynard School gathered on June 8, 2024, for their first reunion at the home of Mary Alice Thompson. Standing, from left to right, are Betty Benschoter Snyder, Mary Alice Thompson, Russell Pfister, Philip Marvin, Melvin Snyder, Dennis Brittain, John Garrison and Allan Brittain. In the middle row are Margaret Brittain Dickerson, Mary Pfister Heimerdinger and Becky Brittain Rubel. Seated are Mary Sue Yeutter and Maureen Marvin Schutte.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

YMCA wellness programs coming to Adrian’s Ebeid Center starting in June

An open house with demonstrations will be held on Monday, June 9, from 1-5 p.m. at the Ebeid Center on East Maumee Street.

ADRIAN — The Frank & Shirley Dick Family YMCA and ProMedica’s Adrian Ebeid Neighborhood Promise have announced that YMCA wellness programming will once again be available in Adrian beginning in June.

In the beginning, planned programs include cardio drumming, specialty yoga for seniors, Zumba dance exercise, and other popular offerings.

In the long run, other course offerings led by YMCA instructors will be based on community feedback, ensuring the programs reflect local needs and interests.

All program offerings at the Adrian Ebeid Center at Comstock School are free to the public, including the new wellness courses offered by the YMCA. Funding is provided by the Lenawee Community Foundation through its support of the Adrian Ebeid Neighborhood Promise.

People who are interested in learning more or trying out one of the exercise or wellness programs at a shortened session are welcome to attend an open

house at the Ebeid Center, located at 801 E. Maumee St. in Adrian, on Monday, June 9 from 1-5 p.m. Demonstrations and active participation sessions lasting 10 to 15 minutes will be offered throughout the afternoon.

The schedule of wellness courses offered at the Ebeid Center June through August are:

n Cardio drumming, Mondays and Wednesdays, June 11 to July 2, at 5 p.m.

n Yoga for seniors, Tuesdays, June 17 to July 29 at 9 a.m.

n Dance exercise, Mondays and Wednesdays, July 7 to July 30, at 5 p.m.

Community feedback will determine what follows in the fall.

“We are thrilled to bring YMCA wellness programs back to Adrian,” Greg Stang, executive director of the Francis Family YMCA and the Frank & Shirley Dick Family YMCA, said in a news release. “At the Y, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live healthier, happier lives, and this partnership with ProMedica allows us to extend that mission. Together, we’re creating a welcoming space for connection, movement, and wellbeing — right in the heart of the community.”

The Frank & Shirley Dick YMCA is located on the campus of ProMedica Hickman Hospital and operates under the YMCA of Greater Toledo.

De’Angelo Boone, coordinator of education and programming at the Ebeid Center, expressed optimism about the new offerings.

“We are very excited about YMCA programming returning to Adrian,” Boone said.

“Making these no-charge health and wellness offerings available at the

Ebeid Center at Comstock is especially important because east Adrian is where the greatest health disparities exist in Lenawee County.”

To be added to the Adrian Ebeid Neighborhood Promise monthly mailing list or for more information about the Ebeid Center, call 517-264-1365 or email adrianenp@promedica.org.

Public health: What it is and why it matters

Public health isn’t just about handwashing signs, restaurant inspections, or flu vaccines. It’s about making sure everyone, regardless of income, zip code, or background, has a real shot at health and well-being. That means addressing the root causes of illness: clean air and water, safe food, quality housing, access to education, and mental health support. It also means responding to emerging threats, supporting maternal and child health, and addressing challenges like infectious diseases, vaccine-preventable illnesses, and the overdose crisis.

When public health is working well, it often goes unnoticed. But today, the field faces growing challenges. Conflicting messages circulate rapidly. Climate change intensifies health risks. Political division and social inequities deepen. And in the midst of it all, our families, neighbors, and communities are simply trying to stay healthy, live with dignity, and make sense of it all.

At its core, public health is about prevention. Widespread immunizations and efforts to reduce tobacco use, encourage exercise, and promote healthy eating have helped prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. These initiatives save lives and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Yet the impact of public health is all around us, in the clean water we drink, the vaccines that prevent disease, and the policies that support healthier living. Public health is the backbone of community well-being, quietly

Care

protecting and improving lives every day.

A helpful way to understand this impact is through the Public Health Impact Pyramid, a model that illustrates how the most effective health improvements often come from broad, population-wide efforts. These include policies that address poverty, improve housing, and ensure clean air and water. While individual care and education are essential, lasting health gains are often rooted in systems-level change.

As early as 1920, C.E.A. Winslow defined public health as “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized community efforts.” That mission is more relevant than ever. In a world of rapid change and growing health challenges, public health is what holds communities together, helping us not just survive, but thrive.

In short, public health matters because it prevents illness, protects the vulnerable, and builds a healthier future for all.

Monica Hunt is the Lenawee County Health Department’s health officer.

for your brain as you age

The summer solstice, the longest day of the year, falls on June 21. Many people enjoy the extended daylight with summer fun, but for others, the day is a reminder of a different journey — life with Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer’s Association uses this day, filled with the most light, to shine awareness on the struggles faced by individuals living with dementia.

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. It’s the perfect time to raise awareness about dementia and the importance of brain health.

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, but there are over 100 types. Other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. All types are progressive, meaning they start with mild symptoms and get worse over time. Memory loss, trouble with problemsolving, changes in language, mood, and behavior are all common symptoms. For both those living with dementia and their care partners, the journey can be filled with both joy and sorrow.

The brain is sometimes overlooked when we think about health. But everyday actions like eating well, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, staying active (both mentally and physically), and managing chronic illnesses all affect brain health. Making smart choices today can help protect your brain and slow the effects of dementia.

Each of us can take steps to care for our brains. The Alzheimer’s Association is here to help with resources, tools, support, and hope for a cure. If you want to learn about the signs and symptoms

CARI REBOTTARO

of dementia, the Association offers free community education programs by request. Their 24/7 Helpline is available to anyone at 800-272-3900. Caregivers can also join local monthly support groups. Businesses looking to support caregiving staff are welcome to connect with the Association for training or other resources.

If memory loss has touched your life, you can be part of the fight. Join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, a powerful community event that brings people together to raise awareness and funds. Lenawee County’s walk will take place on Sunday, October 5. Now is a great time to start or join a team. Learn more at www.act.alz.org, or contact Cheryl Dufore, the Lenawee County Walk Manager, at chdufore@alz.org.

As we mark the longest day of the year, let it also be a moment to shine a light on those affected by Alzheimer’s. Just as the summer sun stretches across the sky, we too can extend support, hope, and awareness to those walking the path of dementia. Together, our actions — big or small — can bring light to a cause that touches so many lives.

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

Michigan HHS director describes impact of federal cuts on state efforts

By Kyle Davidson Michigan Advance

LANSING — Downsizing and mass job cuts put forth by U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have already hampered public health officials in Michigan, Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel declared in court filings last month.

Kennedy announced in March that his department would be working to eliminate 20,000 total employees, consolidating DHHS’s 28 divisions into 15 and closing half of its regional offices.

However, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and 19 other attorneys general took action, arguing these cuts would functionally dismantle the DHHS, leaving it unable to do its job.

A federal judge has since blocked the Trump Administration from issuing further job cuts and reorganizing the Executive Department until a lawsuit brought by a collection of government workers’ and healthcare workers unions is resolved.

As part of these cuts, the DHHS is eliminating roughly 3,500 employees at the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 at the Centers for Disease Control, 1,200 at the National Institutes of Health and 300 at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

In a declaration filed as part of the case, Hertel detailed how the reduction

of staff and closure of several labs at the CDC alongside cuts at the FDA are hindering the state’s work on disease testing, public health and tobacco monitoring.

While the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services runs its own Bureau of Laboratories, which is enmeshed with labs operated by the CDC and other states’ health agencies, the CDC’s lab closures and staffing cuts have left states to fill the gaps.

The Bureau was directly impacted by the closure of the CDC Viral Hepatitis Laboratory Branch and its discontinuation of hepatitis testing, and according to Hertel has not received consistent communication from the CDC about test discontinuations.

“As a result of sporadic changes to test offerings by CDC laboratories, the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories has been unable to determine which tests to prioritize with confidence,” Hertel said.

MDHHS also expects to see higher levels of test submissions for Hepatitis C due to the CDC’s decision to discontinue testing.

Because key program staff are no longer with the CDC, there has also been confusion on points of contact and a reduced knowledge base, Hertel said.

“As a result, the CDC has failed to provide timely response to inquiries of urgent nature, reduced or eliminated national calls, and can no longer effectively serve as a national coordinator of infectious diseases efforts,” she said.

Hudson-area breast cancer support group meets on the first Wednesday of the month

HUDSON — The Greater Hudson Area Breast Cancer Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. at Main Street Perk, 21 Main St., Hudson. For more information, contact Carolyn Booker at 517-812-8855.

MONICA HUNT

Germond

from page B1

Creswell, whose law enforcement career began when Germond hired him in 1981, said Germond was a great mentor and role model from day one.

“I truly admired him,” Creswell said.

He added that there were very few people who didn’t enjoy working for Germond.

“He was just a super person, a great role model who commanded professionalism throughout the sheriff’s department,” he said.

Jack Welsh, Lenawee County sheriff from 2008 to 2019, started his career when Germond hired him as a 21-year-old deputy in 1973.

“It was the start of a very long history,” Welsh said. “He supported me when I ran for sheriff, and the night I won the election in 2008, he stood beside me — supporting me and proud of me.”

Germond was responsible for establishing the county’s 911 central dispatch system, as well as overseeing major improvements to the sheriff’s department facilities.

“He was always involved in some aspect of the community,” Welsh said. “He was an icon even after he retired.”

Germond was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he directed the ushers for more than 50 years and sang in the choir alongside his wife, Carol. High school sweethearts, the couple married in 1957 and raised five daughters.

Germond grew up in St. Mary of Good Counsel parish and moved to

St. Joe’s after his marriage. The two parishes were merged to form Holy Family Parish in 2018 and the Rev. Michael Newman, OSFS, arrived in 2019 as pastor. Newman praised Germond’s devotion to his Catholic faith and his family as well as his willingness to step up whenever there was a need.

Newman observed that for Germond, public service was a vocation.

“He didn’t just do public service — he lived it,” Newman said. “Just like his calling and vocation to be a husband to Carol, a father to his girls, grandfather and great-grandfather to many and, as sheriff, public servant to all of us here in Lenawee County. He truly modeled the commandment of Jesus who said, ‘I have not come to be served, but to serve.’ He

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

[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

Norma Dean “Deanie” Raines Badertscher, 82, of Novato, California, formerly of Adrian, died on Feb. 24. She was a 1960 graduate of Adrian High School. Her love of the ocean was captured in the countless drives she took over Highway 17 in her bright red VW Bug convertible.

Carolyn Cecilia (Marquis) Simon, 83, of Metamora, Ohio, died on March 30. She was born in Adrian. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Assumption, Ohio. She enjoyed meeting her friends at The Charm for weekly coffee. She also loved playing in euchre tournaments. [WEIGEL]

Peter “Kanyon” Stanley Walker, 35, of Denver, Colorado, died on March 24. He was a 2007 graduate of Clinton High School and briefly attended Washtenaw Community College before pursing his passion for theatrical arts and music. He was a gifted singer and played the piano and trumpet. [H]

Adelina Marie Nevaeh Rosalez, 24, of Napoleon, Ohio, formerly of Adrian, died on April 18. [PA]

James “Jim” Onsted, Jr., 88, of Howard City died on April 20. He attended the Police Academy through the University of Michigan and worked for the Adrian Police Department for 33 years, retiring in 1994. [W]

Charlene Louise “Gramcracker” Byers, 86, of Manitou Beach died on April 21. She was a 1956 graduate of Hudson High School, and an RN who worked at Thorn Hospital in Hudson, Bixby Hospital in Adrian, and retired from Duane L. Waters Hospital in Jackson as a nursing supervisor. [BVH]

Madeline (Cauley) Valdez, 60, of Raisin Township died on April 21. She was a 1982 graduate of Onsted High School and graduated from the Corrections Academy at Kalamazoo Valley Community College in 2011. She was a parishioner St. Mary’s in Adrian. She managed the Brooklyn and Tecumseh laundromat and owned Valdez Cleaning Service. She also worked at Kapnick Orchards and the bakery at Country Market, and later the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office. [PA]

Timothy Wayne Clark, 72, of Adrian died on April 22. [PA]

Jack E. DeLand, 76, of Adrian died on April 22. He was a graduate of Adrian High School and Michigan State University. He served in the Adrian Police Department for 30 years, retiring in 2005. [AM]

Joyce Elaine Wiesmann, 83, of Adrian died on April 22. She was a member of the 4H Service Club and Raisin Presbyterian Church in Britton. She served as the Clerk of Session for 30 years at her church. [W]

Michael Benjamin Driessche, 81, of Tecumseh died on April 23. He was a 1961 graduate of Monroe Catholic Central High School and attended Ferris State College for two years. He was an Army veteran and worked in the corrugated paper industry, retiring in 2009 after 46 years. [H]

Rosemary M. Nichols, 93, of Adrian died on April 23. She worked at Adrian State Bank as a teller, and later at Citi Bank in Jackson. She loved activities at the Adrian Senior Center, where she served on the

was a kind, loving man, with a heart for service and he will be missed.”

Jim Philp, retired superintendent of the Lenawee Intermediate School District, called Germond “a person of impeccable character” with “a great sense of humor.”

“I have the utmost respect for him,” Philp said.

Philp worked with Germond at the sheriff’s office for a few summers as a marine officer. Later, in 2000, Germond was elected to the LISD Board of Education and remained an active trustee until his passing.

“When we were building the Center for a Sustainable Future in 2013, Dick was willing to listen and learn about it and the systems we were putting in place,” Philp said. “He was very supportive.”

advisory board. She also served on the Lenawee Nutrition Council and volunteered at the Rea Literacy Center in Adrian. She attended Bethany Assembly of God. [AM]

John Michael Dull, 81, of Manitou Beach died on April 24. He was a graduate of Adrian High School and worked for the Adrian Police Department, retiring as a lieutenant in 1999 after 32 years. For a brief period he also served as acting chief. He was in charge of security for Adrian High School home football games for over 20 years. [AM]

Gary Markiewicz, 74, of Brooklyn died on April 24. He graduated from Henry Ford College, Michigan Technological University, and Lawrence Technological University. He worked for 33 years at DTE Energy in Newport as a design engineer. He was a member of the Brooklyn Moose. [PA]

Charles Munger, 73, of Tecumseh died on April 24. He was a 1970 graduate of Tecumseh High School where he was an active member of the FFA. Farming was his lifelong passion and he worked for Ford Motor Company, Saline plant, retiring after 35 years. He was a member of Tipton Community Congregational Church. [PS]

Eunice Brighton, 94, of Tecumseh died on April 25. [PS]

Michael Anthony Crillo, 62, of Morenci died on April 25. He worked for over 40 years in the automotive manufacturing industry, mainly with United Technology and AM General. He served the Morenci community as a firefighter and EMT. [AM]

Sister Pauline Opliger, OP, 97, of Adrian died on April 25. Formerly Sister Paul Raymond, she was in her 68th year of profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation. A native of Rice, Kansas, she spent 46 years in elementary and secondary education in Michigan, Illinois, New Mexico, California, and Nevada. She later volunteered with the children’s art therapy program at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detoit and offered art classes for inmates at the Gus Harrison Correctional Facility. [ADS]

Earl “John” Speelman, 90, of Morenci died on April 25. He was a Navy veteran and worked for many years at American Chain and Cable in Adrian, retiring in 1988. [AM]

In addition to his work with the LISD, Germond was a member of the Adrian Kiwanis Club for 56 years, serving as a past president and lieutenant governor for the Michigan District. He also served on the boards of ProMedica Bixby and Herrick hospitals for 30 years, as well as the Salvation Army board.

“He definitely was a pillar of the community, a servant of the community,” Philp said. “He had that kind of integrity. We are very fortunate to have had him as a resident of our county.”

Bronna Kahle, president and CEO of the Lenawee Community Foundation and a former state legislator, echoed that sentiment. “To know Dick was to respect and love him,” she said.

“As a former state legislator and now as president of the Lenawee Community Foundation, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand how deeply Sheriff Dick Germond cared about this community,” Kahle said. “He always showed up — whether in uniform or simply as someone who wanted to help. For decades, Dick’s steady presence and quiet leadership made Lenawee a better place.”

Germond’s legacy continues through the Germond Scholarship Fund at the Lenawee Community Foundation. The fund supports Lenawee County students pursuing careers in health care — a field he deeply valued, Kahle said. The endowed scholarship has already awarded nearly $8,000 to local students and will continue to provide support in perpetuity.

“Sheriff Dick Germond served with heart,” Kahle said, “and we’re all better for it.”

Richard “Rick” Teske, 78, of Adrian died on April 25. He was a Navy veteran and worked for Budd Company and Bosch Braking. He loved working on hot rods and was happiest behind the wheel of his 1928 Ford Truck. He was a member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church. [PA]

Sister Janet Traut, OP, 85, of Adrian died on April 25. Formerly Sister James Kathleen, she was in her 67th year of profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was born in Evergreen Park, Illinois. After entering the Congregation, she taught 40 years in several Michigan schools. She later served at the Congregation-sponsored Aquinas Literacy Center. [ADS]

Sister Rita Brunett, OP, 89, of Adrian died on April 26. Formerly Sister Raymond Cecile, she was in her 73rd year of profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation. She was a native of Detroit. After profession, she ministered for more than 25 years in elementary and adult education in Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. She later served as a hospital chaplain in Connecticut and Ohio; as associate director for family life for the Diocese of Toledo; as nursing service coordinator for the Dominican Life Center in Adrian; and as a pastoral minister at two parishes in Michigan. [ADS]

David William Mallory, 78, of Adrian died on April 26. He was a 1964 graduate of St. Albans High School and served in the U.S. Navy, then attended the fine arts program at West Virginia State University. He loved painting, drawing, movies, and military history. [W]

James Walker Scudder, 74, of Brooklyn died on April 26. He drove a school bus and loved driving the students to games and concerts. He was a member of St. Joseph Shrine in Brooklyn for 35 years, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served as an usher for nine years. [E] Pedro “Pete” Herrera, 59, of Palmyra died on April 27. He was employed by Back to Nature Lawn Care in Milan for 20 years. [W] James Philip Schaedler, 84, of Waldron died on April 28. He worked in his early years at Willys Overland Motors and as a dairy farmer. In 1975 he started Schaedler Farm Drainage, which remains operational today. [AM]

Sheriff Dick Germond talks with a road patrol lieutenant in this photo from 1979.

LENAWEE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Richard Leo Germond, 90, of Adrian died on April 30. He was the longest-serving Sheriff in Lenawee County and the state of Michigan. He was a 56-year member of the Adrian Kiwanis, served on the boards of ProMedica Bixby and Herrick Hospitals, Lenawee Intermediate School District Board, and was also employed as a funeral director’s assistant for Anderson-Marry Funeral Homes. He was a member of Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph campus. [AM]

William Lewis Harding, 84, of Hudson died on April 30. He spent most of his life in California. [BVH]

George Charles Elliott, 88, of Adrian died on May 1. He was a 1954 graduate of Sand Creek High School. In his early years he enjoyed working on the family farm. He worked for over 40 years at Adrian Steel, where he served as shop superintendent. [AM]

Judith Ann Jordan, 82, of Adrian died on May 1. She loved to play bingo and would travel around the area to play at different halls. She enjoyed working with horses as a groomer. [AM]

Matthew David Kirk, 54, of Clinton died on May 1. He was employed for several years as a machine builder. He played baseball, football, ran track, and from the age of 5 to his late 30s he played amateur hockey. [H]

Jeri Lynn Freeman-Veldhoff, 67, of Brooklyn died on May 2. She was a 1976 graduate of Manchester High School. She worked at Ford Motor Company for 31 years, retiring in 2024. [E]

Marilyn Jean Walch, 78, of Lake Somerset died on May 3. She was a 1964 graduate of Addison High School. She worked for many years as a bookkeeper alongside her husband at Rick’s Body Shop. [BVH]

Jeffrey L. Holloway, 53, of Adrian died on May 3. He was a 1990 graduate of Adrian High School and earned a degree in business at Eastern Michigan university. After college he started his own business, JP Print and Copy of Ann Arbor. He later worked at Hunger Rush as a project manager in software technology. [AM]

George Flowers, 85, of Jackson, formerly of Waldron, died on May 3. [AM]

Eddie Douglas McKenzie, 83, of Tecumseh died on May 3. He worked at Ford Motor Company for 25 years, retiring in 1999. He was a member of the Tecumseh Fraternal Order of Eagles. [AM]

Galen H. Brockway, 77, of Adrian died on May 4. He was a graduate of Onsted High School. He retired from Adrian Public Schools, worked at Earl Kelly’s farm for over 15 years, and also worked at WLEN, WABJ, and Q95 radio stations. He was a reserve officer for the Adrian Police Department and Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office. [PA]

David J. Blair, 86, of Medina Township died on May 5. He worked at American Chain and Cable, retiring in 1986. During this time he opened the Fayette Western Skating Rink in Fayette, Ohio. He was a member of the Medina Federated Church and raised Ameraucana chickens. [AM]

Leo Francis Drake, 99, of Adrian died on May 5. He worked in his father’s bakery in Adrian and then for Brazeway. After retiring, he spent 25 years at Pelham Auto Service. He was a member of Holy Family Parish, St. Mary’s campus, and was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 1964. [AM]

Austin James Kukral, 31, of Adrian died on May 6. He was a 2011 graduate of Madison High School. [PA]

Robert Meads, 98, of Novi died on May 6. He left Tecumseh High School in 1945 to join the U.S. Navy. After leaving the Navy, he started working for Tecumseh Products until his retirement. He was awarded his high school diploma in 2003. He was a volunteer for Love Inc., Meals on Wheels, and Habitat for Humanity. He was a member of Tecumseh United Methodist Church. [PS]

Alexandra Nicole Steele, 32, of Adrian died on May 7. She was a 2010 graduate of Adrian High School and earned degrees in social work from the University of Michigan. She was a dedicated social worker, focusing on supporting children and young adults. [W]

Irene Joann Hawkins, 62, of Tecumseh died on May 7. She worked for many years at McDonald’s. Outside of work she enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and watching the Detroit Tigers and Lions. [H]

Iris Lee Clapp, 66, of Adrian died on May 7. She enjoyed attending the Porter Center and playing the piano. [H]

Randy Lee Robinson, 53, of Clayton died on May 8. He loved fishing and camping. [PA]

Carol Olive Winters, 92, of Blissfield died on May 9. [W]

Donna Florence Dziuba, 79, of Addison died on May 9. She worked at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit Edison, and EDS as an executive secretary. She was known for her homemade pierogis. [BVH]

Nelda Joyce Mikolajczyk, 98, of Leonidas died on May 9. She was a graduate of Addison High School and spent many happy years on her farm. She was a member of the Factoryville Bible Church. [BVH]

Garnetta Faye Luckett, 82, of Tecumseh died on May 10. [PA]

Raul “Rudy” H. Alafita, 91, of Adrian died on May 10. He was an Army veteran and a self-taught drummer, guitarist, and vocalist. He was involved in various Mexican conjunto music groups, earning him recognition in Michigan and beyond. He and his fellow conjunto musicians were honored with a State of Michigan Historical Marker, a first to honor the contributions of a Latino community in the state. The marker is placed in the heart of Detroit’s Mexicantown. He worked for General Motors, retiring after 30 years. [AM]

Loutrille Lorene Howell, 89, of Adrian died on May 11. She was a member of the Evangelical Mennonite Church where she served in many capacities. She was an employee of Faraday for two years and Dura Convertible Systems as a quality control secretary for 36 years, retiring in 2000. She enjoyed playing bingo and other games with her friends at Lenawee Medical Care Facility, where she had resided since 2016. [W]

Daniel John Gilbert, 52, of Tecumseh died on May 11. He was a passionate chef who found joy in the kitchen in a career that spanned decades. Starting as a sous chef and working his way up to head chef, he left his mark on many restaurants throughout the Detroit area. Later he served the senior community as a head chef and kitchen manager in several retirement communities. [H]

Donna Jean Irwin, 79, of Sebring, Florida, died on May 11. She spent many years working in the field of computing, retiring from Wacker Silicones in 2002. She was a member of the American Legion Post 71 Auxiliary.

Paula Jane Hart, 70, of Tecumseh died on May 11. She worked for 11 years in Dr. Riccardo Giovannone’s office as a receptionist and office manager, retiring in 2017. She was a past member of the Tecumseh American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. [H]

Judy Esther Reed, 86, of Clarklake died on May 12. She was a graduate of Jackson High School and Western Michigan University. She was a teacher for 34 years teaching middle school and college classes. She coached the Napoleon golf team and was a member of Clarklake Community Church. [E]

Anne Delia Herrera, 91, of Adrian died on May 12. [PA]

Ellawayne Rose, 93, of Adrian died on May 12. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church and was past president of Business and Professional Women, past president of Adrian Women’s Club, a member of DAV Women’s Auxiliary, and volunteered with the Bixby Auxiliary. She retired from the Bank of Lenawee. [AM]

Dorothy Ann Schmidt, 86, of Adrian died on May 12. She was a graudate of Eastern Michigan University. She was active in Toastmasters, sang in the choir at St. Joseph Catholic Church, played the flute with the Adrian City Band, and volunteered with Civitan. [PA]

James Wayne Edwards, 91, of Addison died on May 12. After high school he became a sheriff’s deputy and spent over 20 years at with McCracken County Sheriff’s Department in Paducah, Kentucky. He attended St. Mary on the Lake Catholic Church. [BVH]

Elizabeth “Betty” Louise Regalado, 89, of Adrian died on May 12. She worked for many years at Uarco in Adrian, retiring in 1997. [BVH]

Susan Kay Williams, 74, of Sand Creek died on May 13. She was a 1969 graduate of Sand Creek High School and later worked there for over 30 years as a custodian and playground supervisor. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Adrian. [AM] Jose Castorena, 92, of Adrian died on May 13. [PA]

Hunter Alexander Boyd, 28, of Tecumseh died on May 13. He graduated from Tecumseh High School and was a music major at Western Michigan University. He worked as an inventory manager for Pure Cannabis Outlet in Monroe. He played the guitar and bass guitar, and performed in many musical theater productions. [AM]

Janet Dusseau, 81, of Tecumseh died on May 14. She once worked for her parents at Leary’s Auto Parts Store and also worked for Carlson’s Cars. She was the former owner of Pretty Petal Flower Shop in Petersburg, and worked at Walmart in Adrian. [AM]

James William Hook, 70, of Tecumseh died on May 14. He worked for 31 years in the skilled trades for General Motors before working 10 years as a teaching aide in the Tecumseh Public School system. He volunteered for various Tecumseh lacrosse programs. [H]

Marilyn Alice (Young) Mitchell, 96, of Tecumseh died on May 14. She was a runway model for Porteous Mithcell in Portland, Maine. She was a secretary at GMAC for many years until relocating to Ann Arbor. After her children grew up, she workd as a bank teller at Manufacturer’s Bank in Saline and helped open the Comerica Bank at Scio Church and Main in Ann Arbor. She was a member of the Saline Area Players. [PA]

Dennis Kulikowki Jr., 81, of Manitou Beach died on May 15. He was an Army veteran and worked for 27 years for Ford Motor Company Research Engineering as a plumber/pipefitter in Dearborn. In 2005 he retired and moved to Devils Lake. [PA] Carol Laverne Porterfield, 93, of Tipton died on May 15. She was a 1950 graduate of Columbia Central High School. She worked at Ford Motor Company. [PS]

Paulette M. Stepp, 77, of Tecumseh died on May 15. She was a lover of the arts and was passionate about acting and was in many performances at the Croswell Opera House, Tecumseh Center for the Arts, and Blissfield Murder Mystery Dinner Train. She was also the voice of the Tecumseh Spotlight for over six years on WLEN. [AM]

Mary Jeanne (Collyer) Willnow, 78, of Palmyra died on May 15. She was a graduate of Sand Creek High School. She was active in her community with 4-H, Palmyra Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and Women’s Bowling League. [AM]

David E. Wood, 83, of Adrian died on May 17. He served in the U.S. Army and later worked as a supervisor at Merillat Industries, retiring in 2007. [AM]

Lee Benish, 80, of Chicago died on May 17. He was a 1964 graduate of Adrian High School.

Pamela Jo (Pam) Knapp, 65, of Brooklyn died on May 18. She was a 1977 graduate of Columbia Central High School. She enjoyed her calming morning runs through the streets of Brooklyn. She loved being outdoors and working at Hidden Lake Gardens. [E]

Robert Brown “Brownie” Donet, 70, of Palmyra died on May 18. [PA]

Donald Lee Schmidt, 82, of Tecumseh died on May 18. He was an Army veteran and worked at Fisher Body in Tecumseh until his medical disability. He was a member of the United Auto Workers and served as a union committeeman for many years. He retired in 1990 and started a new profession with his photography business. He also worked various jobs within the Tecumseh Public School system, including junior high track coach and crossing guard. [H]

Jeffrey Alan Warner, 61, of Palmyra died on May 20. He was a 1982 graduate of Blissfield High School and was a truck driver for many years. [W]

Wayland E. Dillon, 69, of LaVergne, Tennessee, died on May 20. He was born in Tecumseh and graduated from Onsted High School in 1973. [PA]

Ronald Lee Wright, 72, of Morenci died on May 21. He retired from Adrian Steel after 35 years of service. [PA]

Shirley Ann Gibson, 89, of Tecumseh died on May 21. [PS]

Helen B. Pierceall, 92, of Hudson died on May 21. She attended Vandercook Lake Public Schools. She worked for the telephone company, Jacobson’s Department Store, and the former Foote Hospital in Jackson. She sang in the Hudson Cantata and was a member of First Baptist Church in Hudson. [BVH]

Michael Joe Thompson, 65, of Morenci died on May 22. He was a 1978 graduate of Morenci High School. He worked at M&S Manufacturing, beginning in the Morenci plant and then transferring to Hudson. He also worked at General Broach, Wilbur-Ellis, and Roth Fabricating. [AM]

Sally Anne Glenn, 91, of Tecumseh died on May 22. She was a 1952 graduate of Tecumseh High School. She loved ballroom dancing and was known for her molasses cookies and popcorn tubs. [PS]

Mary Helen Pasley, 64, of Jackson died on May 22. She was a 1980 graduate of Addison High School. She worked most of her life in several restaurants in the Addison and Manitou Beach areas. [BVH]

Jerry Paul Mummery, 87, of Liberty Township died on May 22. He served in the U.S. Naval Reserve as a flight instructor. He was retired from Ford Motor Company in Saline. He was a member of the Ann Arbor Jaycees and the American Legion Wilbur-Bartlet #315 of Brooklyn, and was a member of First Baptist Church in Brooklyn. [E]

Robert “Bob” Lee Craig, 78, of Sand Creek died on May 23. He was a 1965 graduate of Morenci High School and served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He worked at Harvey Aluminum, which later became Martin Marietta, and retired from Merillat Industries as a cabinet fabricator after 30 years. He was a member of Sand Creek Community Church and served as president of the Sand Creek Little League for 10 years. [W]

Susie Marie Goetz, 82, of Blissfield died on May 24. She was a 1960 graduate of Onsted High School. She was a member of the National Campers and Hikers Association and the Lenawee Loafers. She lived the last few years at Blissfield Place. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Adrian. [W]

Patrick Michael Collins of Adrian, who died at the age of 71 on May 2, 2024, will be remembered with services at St. Mary’s Cemetery on June 14. He attended St. Mary’s and Catholic Central and Adrian High School. He lived for over 30 years in California, where he started Collins Custom Hardwood Floors, but in his later years returned to Adrian to be near family and continued his flooring business. A highlight of his career was restoring the flooring of Downs Hall at Adrian College. [AM]

Adrian native and former Brazeway CEO launches tool to help students develop careers

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — As a member of a family with deep roots in Adrian manufacturing and community philanthropy, Stephanie Hickman Boyse has long been involved in the worlds of both higher education and the trades.

And after she retired as the CEO of Brazeway, the company her family built — although she still serves on its board — Boyse turned her focus to building Jebbee, a career networking platform aimed at helping young people decide what they want to do with their lives and find out how to make it happen. She is the platform’s CEO and co-founder.

Boyse’s history at her family’s company, which over the decades has employed scores of local workers — and as a member of the boards of both Adrian College and Siena Heights University — “taught me a lot over the years,” she said.

But the “eye-opener,” she continued, was being the mom of a teen who didn’t know what she wanted to do for a living and thought Brazeway was in the toiletmanufacturing business.

The company is actually the world’s largest producer of aluminum thinwall, refrigeration-grade round tube, and makes products used in the HVAC, automotive, appliance, and commercial refrigeration industries.

Stephanie Hickman Boyse talks with students at Michigan State University after a presentation about Jebbee, the career networking platform she cofounded.

“We are not doing the job for our kids” when it comes to helping them learn about careers and become prepared for the world of work, Boyse said. She added that 50 to 60 percent of young people leave high school without knowing what

they want to do for a living.

“It’s not that our schools haven’t tried,” she said. “They’ve tried very, very hard.”

But for students, it’s difficult to even know where to start in pulling together all the resources needed to learn about

careers — from discovering what they’d be good at in the first place and getting the right skills to connecting with people working in those fields already.

National Intern Day event aims to connect student interns with community

By Haley Bell

The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Lenawee County’s celebration of National Intern Day, set for July 31, is all about fostering community, company growth and demonstrating to young people that they do not need to leave Lenawee County to find career success.

“National Intern Day was a great opportunity to connect with other interns in the community while also

having fun,” said E’Anna Won, who participated last year as an intern with Wacker Chemical. “I was able to hear and share experiences about the local businesses here in Lenawee County and learn about how many opportunities there are locally.”

One of the activities last year involved packing more than 500 weekend meal kits for area youth in partnership with I-92 Ministries.

“Being able to put together and

organize meal bags was also a great way to give back to the community and learn about such an impactful organization,” she said.

The local Intern Day is the result of a collaboration between Mike Ayre and Melissa Tsuji. Ayre, who formerly worked for Wacker Chemical, was involved in that company’s internship program. Tsuji directs Siena Heights University’s Career Services program. Ayre said Wacker’s internship program was started as a way

to increase the company’s connection to schools, career services programs, and chemistry faculty.

“It was all about developing this pipeline of talent for us,” said Ayre, who is now a human resources consultant involved in workforce development.

“I kept thinking there was more to do outside of work and to engage interns in the life of the community.”

Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce recognizes community leadership

ADRIAN — The Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce presented its annual awards on May 1 at the Adrian Armory Event Center.

The Addison J. Comstock Award, intended to honor vision and tenacity in promoting Adrian, its economy, and its business growth, was presented to Mark and Mary Murray, two longtime Adrianarea business and civic leaders whose projects include the Adrian Armory restoration and the Launch Lenawee business incubator program that is housed there.

The Ann Hughes Legacy Leadership Award is named for the late Ann Hughes, who was known for her vision, pioneering spirit, determination, and mentorship of women in the community. It is intended to honor those who embody those same traits, and this year it was presented to Londa Pickles, president of Gurdjian Insurance Group.

The Above and Beyond Excellence Award — designed to recognize strong ethical values, community commitment and engagement, and environmental stewardship — was presented to Sue Lewis of Catholic Charities.

Haley Entmaa of Adrian Mechanical Services was named 2025’s Outstanding Young Professional.

The Tecumseh Area Historical Society was honored for beautification efforts.

The Making a Difference Award, designed to recognize a nonprofit organization that makes a significant impact and difference in the community, was presented to the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate.

Mary Roberts was named Chamber Ambassador of the Year.

The growing Talent Award was presented to Creek Enterprise in Adrian.

This award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond to support the talent network for their own business or the community as a whole.

First row, left to right: Mary and Mark Murray (Addison J. Comstock Award) and Londa Pickles (Ann Hughes Legacy Leadership Award). Second row: Mary Roberts (Chamber Ambassador of the Year) and Haley Entmaa (Outstanding Young Professional for 2025).

Prescription Earth offers acupuncture, herbal health and more in new Adrian home

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Prescription Earth

Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine has a new home on the north side of Adrian.

Melissa Anderson, who owns the practice, opened in Tecumseh in 2021 and moved into her new location at 1018 N. Main St. in Adrian in May.

Moving to Adrian wasn’t something Anderson was planning on doing, but she decided that she needed more room to expand the services she offers by adding more staff.

“I was looking for a downtown building in Tecumseh with more treatment rooms so that I could grow and hire a second acupuncturist, and I found this space,” she said. “I fell in love with the building.”

Anderson initially trained to be a chef by attending culinary school and worked in that field for 11 years. After deciding she was ready for a career change, she studied to earn a master’s degree in acupuncture and Oriental medicine with a focus on herbal medicine. In addition to her education and an internship experience, she is also nationally board certified, and is certified through the state of Michigan as well.

Her practice focuses on treating patients with a variety of medical concerns.

“Anything that you would go to your normal doctor for, you can come here for,” Anderson said.

She said that the ancient Chinese mapped out how energy flows through the body. With her practice, Anderson studies where energy is “stuck,” or where there may not be enough energy in locations in the body.

Keratin needles are inserted in points of the body called meridians, which are points that are close enough to the surface of the body that they can be manipulated, she continued. This process redirects the energy flow in the body.

“When energy is flowing correctly through the meridians, the body will heal itself,” she said.

A typical treatment session may last an hour, but the initial session is more involved. This session starts with a diagnostic session that lasts a few hours, she continued, during which time she will ask questions, take the patient’s pulse, and examine the tongue.

Anderson said that the acupuncture treatment is “totally unique to the person.”

“Some people only need to come once,” she said. “Most people become lifelong patients because they enjoy it so much.”

Anderson offers a free half-hour consultation session to discuss the use of acupuncture and herbal medicine for patients who are interested in learning more about these treatment options. And, as a community service, Anderson is planning on adding a Monday evening session in June that will allow people to come in and get a five-point “general feel good” needle protocol. These sessions will be free and will take place between 4 and 6 p.m.

Anderson is planning to add a kitchen and tea room in 2026.

Prescription Earth Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine is located at 1018 N. Main St. in Adrian.

Melissa Anderson is the owner of Prescription Earth Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, which recently moved from Tecumseh to Adrian. In addition to the practice’s current offerings, Anderson hopes to add a kitchen and tea room next year. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

This house at 1018 N. Main St., on the north side of Adrian, is the new location of Prescription Earth Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Busch’s grocery chain marks 50th anniversary

ANN ARBOR — Busch’s Fresh Food Market, a family-owned supermarket chain that includes stores in Tecumseh and Clinton, is celebrating 50 years in business.

The company was founded by Joe Busch and Charlie Mattis in 1975 when they took over two Vescio’s supermarkets in Clinton and Saline and renamed them J&C Family Foods. When Joe Busch retired in 1986, his sons John, Doug and Tim, took over the family business and continued to build and acquire more stores. The company, which is headquartered in Ann Arbor, now has about 1,600 employees, with stores located in Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Livingston and Lenawee counties.

“I’m very grateful that we can celebrate 50 years in the community with everyone who has invested in us,” CEO Gary Pfeil said in a news release. “We are so blessed by the loyalty of our guests, the dedication of our associates and the support of our many vendors who ensure we continue to offer the freshest, high-quality foods available.”

Busch’s stores range from 26,000 to 51,000 square feet. Baked goods for the entire chain are prepared in Clinton.

The chain has been in Clinton from the beginning, and in Tecumseh since 1981, when it moved into a former A&P grocery on Herrick Park Drive. In 1987, the company bought the Valu Land supermarket on West Chicago Boulevard and moved its store there, changing the name to Busch’s Valu Land and closing the Herrick Park Drive location. Busch’s remains in the Chicago Boulevard location today.

Busch’s has been focusing on store renovations in recent years, with the Clinton location having been remodeled

since 1987.

in 2020 and Tecumseh in 2021.

“Our annual investments in store improvements are about more than just enhancing the shopping experience; they’re about deepening our connection to the communities that have supported us for half a century,” said Busch’s president Bobby Turner.

Busch’s also supports local schools through its Cash for Education program and monthly donations to food banks such as Food Gatherers and Forgotten Harvest.

The Tecumseh store is at 1450 W. Chicago Blvd. and the Clinton store is at 1950 W. Michigan Ave.

Former Premier Bank locations complete transition to WesBanco

ADRIAN — Premier Bank is now part of the West Virginia-based WesBanco, and as of mid-May, the signs at the former Premier locations in Lenawee County reflect that change.

It’s the third ownership change in two decades for what was once the Bank of Lenawee.

In 2008, Bank of Lenawee, which was then 139 years old, was acquired by First Defiance Financial Corp. of Defiance, Ohio, and its eight branches were rebranded as First Federal Bank. In 2020, First Federal merged with Home Savings

Bank, and the newly merged company began operating as Premier Bank.

WesBanco’s planned acquisition of Premier was announced in July 2024.

WesBanco’s history dates to 1870, when it was chartered as “The German Bank” in Wheeling, West Virginia. It has been operating under its current name since 1968.

WesBanco has more than 250 financial centers and loan production offices in Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The new WesBanco sign on the former Premier Bank at 300 N. Main St. in Adrian is pictured on May 23.

The Busch’s Fresh Food Market in Tecumseh, which has been in its present location

Hills of Lenawee earns state and national recognition from GolfPass

ADRIAN — Hills of Lenawee Golf Club has been ranked third on GolfPass’ list of the Best Value Golf Courses in America. The course was also ranked 15th on the platform’s list of the best public golf courses in Michigan and is the only southeast Michigan course to appear on either list.

GolfPass is a digital platform launched by Masters champion Rory McIlroy in partnership with NBC Sports Next. The platform features rankings driven by everyday golfers — based on value, design, conditions, and overall experience.

Established in 1920 as Lenawee Country Club, the course operated as a private facility for nearly a century. In 2019, a group of local residents, business owners, and community

leaders — including individuals from Blissfield, Adrian, and surrounding areas — acquired the property with the goal of preserving the course’s beauty and prestige while expanding access to a broader regional community. Their goal was to honor the course’s legacy, maintain opportunities for membership, and welcome a new generation of golfers to experience all the course has to offer.

In 2024, the newly renamed Hills of Lenawee Golf Club opened to the public for the first time. Today, the course operates seven days a week, welcoming golfers of all skill levels.

Hills of Lenawee also serves as an event venue and has a restaurant, Birdies on the Hill. It is located at 4110 Country Club Road in Adrian. More information is available at hillsoflenaweegolf.com.

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Whether in a classroom, on a school bus, or in an office, our goal is the same: supporting and serving learners.

Careers at the LISD span a range of programs and services, including special education, career and technical education, general

Hills of Lenawee was recently ranked one of the best public golf courses in Michigan by the GolfPass platform, as well as one of the best-value courses in the country.

School district, Adrian Steel expand their partnership

ADRIAN — Building on the success of last year’s launch, Adrian Public Schools and Adrian Steel have expanded their Jet Toy Engineering Program to include Prairie Elementary, bringing handson STEM learning to more fifth-grade students across the district.

This year, both Michener Elementary and Prairie Elementary participated in the 12-week program, which culminated in a jet car competition that celebrated student collaboration, creativity, and emerging engineering skills.

Part of SAE International’s A World in Motion Jet Toy Competition, the program was led by Adrian Steel’s fleet technical project manager Eric Liu, with support from a team of engineers: Ali Moreno, David Wright, George Bernwanger, Jozie Scott, Erika Burke, Pat Lakatos, Paul Pangalos, Daisy Guzman-Pena, and Tina Dillaha.

Throughout the experience, students explored core physics concepts, such as Newton’s laws of motion, while designing, testing, and refining their own jet-powered vehicles.

Liu shared, “This year we took on two schools and took a longer time installing the program compared to last year,” Liu said. “However, I felt like the time went by very quickly. My team and I had a wonderful experience.”

Michener Elementary School hosted its competition on May 9, while Prairie Elementary celebrated its first Jet Toy event on May 16. At Michener, the winning team was made up of students Emma Cherry, Kristopher Gallant, Anna Monroe, Lewis Mota, Thomas Rodehaver, and Mya Winters. At Prairie, the firstplace team was Aria Archer, Emma Gallagher, and Meeko Torres. Prairie fifth-grade teacher Ryan Neesam shared the excitement his students experienced throughout the program: “Every Friday, my students looked forward to meeting and working on their jet car. They saw that failure was part of learning, which led to their cars working better. Adrian Steel was knowledgeable and worked well with the kids.”

Meriah Kania, a teacher from Michener Elementary, said: “Being involved now with this program for the second year, I can truly see the impact this program has on students and their enthusiasm for engineering and design. Not everything works out perfectly the first time, and practicing the perseverance needed for success is an important life skill. It is a great opportunity for students to also collaborate in a meaningful way. The students loved being part of this each week.”

Callie Yatzek, dean of students at Prairie, reflected on the broader impact of the new opportunity for students at that school. “Bringing this program to Prairie Elementary has been an amazing experience,” she said. “Our students not only learned important STEM concepts but also gained confidence through hands-on problem-solving and teamwork. Watching their excitement build as their cars raced down the track was truly special. We’re so grateful for this partnership with Adrian Steel.”

Superintendent Nate Parker said the program exemplifies how schools can bring real-world STEM opportunities into the classroom.

Jebbee from page C1

That’s why she decided to launch Jebbee, a name that comes out of the platform’s scope being “all things jobs, education, and business,” Boyse said. “We wanted to come up with a name that was fun and playful,” and Jebbee was what stuck.

Unlike a traditional job board, Jebbee meets young people where they already are: on social media. The platform is interactive, using AI-driven matching capabilities to recommend careers, schools and opportunities based on a student’s personality, interests, and skills. It also includes features such as virtual career days and mentorship opportunities.

Students and educators at Adrian High School, Adrian College, Dexter Community Schools, Michigan State University, and the Char-Em School District in Charlevoix and Emmett have been testing the platform for about two months now. Boyse expects a full launch this fall.

Jebbee is geared toward high school and college students and recent graduates, but it will also serve educational institutions of all types and

businesses who want to connect with young talent.

So how does it work?

The platform, which is free for students and for Michigan high schools, is available as a mobile app and at jebbee.com.

First, a user logs in and creates a profile that can be as limited or as extensive as desired. The answers help inform the user’s Jebbee feed, which Boyse described as “TikTok meets LinkedIn.”

Student answer questions about their interests and take a personality test, all of which are designed to help the platform make its recommendations. The more the user engages with Jebbee, the more Jebbee learns about what the student might like (or not) career-wise.

“It’s a really fun and interactive process,” Boyse said.

Among the platform’s many features is an ever-expanding library of videos from people already working in fields the student might be interested in, serving as an online version of Career Day and which pulls all that sort of content together into one place.

For example, Boyse herself interviewed her own HVAC technician, a woman who “tells a great and inspiring story,” she said. Another of her interviews

was with Mike Rowe, the “Dirty Jobs” guy from TV.

Besides helping students figure out what sorts of jobs are out there for them — including ones they may otherwise never even realize exist — the content can steer them toward the classes they’ll need, even if those classes don’t seem obvious at first.

Boyse cited the example of asking a chef what class he wished he’d paid more attention to in school, and his answer was “math,” because a chef needs to know how to scale recipes depending on the number of people the food is being prepared for.

In time, Jebbee will also allow students to connect with mentors. For safety reasons, the mentoring will not be done directly with a student, but the student will be able to ask a mentor questions through the platform.

Boyse said that while leaving the day-to-day operation of Brazeway meant leaving behind a fulfilling career, working on Jebbee helps her continue to focus on “the greater good” by helping students connect with careers and get the skills they need to, in turn, be the talent employers need.

And besides that, “this has been a super-fun thing to do,” she said.

Intern Day

from page C1

National Intern Day provides the perfect opportunity to foster this pipeline and take that extra step, Ayre said.

“I thought that this was a significant way in order to increase the number of folks that were interested in full-time employment and not just a summer job,” he said.

In 2023, the all-day event took place at Hidden Lake Gardens. Tsuji said that during the day, “engineering students really started to open up.”

“I could see that students were putting the pieces together and visualizing themselves in that role and were able to place themselves in the community,” she said.

This year’s daylong National Intern Day will start at the Habitat for Humanity project on Adrian’s east side, and will include talks from local business owners on opportunities for interns in the county. Lunch will be served at the Stubnitz Environmental Education Center, followed by more activities at the Adrian Center for the Arts.

Employers are encouraged to register their interns for the event by visiting sienaheights.edu.

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

ARTS & LIVING

THE LENAWEE VOICE

FOURTH SECTION

JUNE 2025

Riga artist’s design chosen for Ragtime Revue music cover » PAGE D5

The city of Adrian will mark its 200th birthday with a full weekend of activities in early July

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — In 1825, a settler from New York State, Addison Comstock, and his father Darius made the journey west into the Michigan Territory looking for land. Addison wanted riverside property in order to build a mill around which a town could arise, and found just what he was looking for at a site along the River Raisin. With his purchase of that land, the city of Adrian was born.

Adrian will celebrate its bicentennial this July 4 weekend with a wide range of events held at locations around the city.

Although the actual bicentennial date technically comes in September, the anniversary of Comstock’s land purchase, the city’s 175th birthday celebration was held on July 4 and “we determined that would be the best tradition to keep going,” said city commissioner Mary Roberts, who heads the committee working on the event.

Events that already traditionally take place over the July 4 holiday, such as the

Civitan parade and events held by the Adrian City Band and the River Raisin Ragtime Revue, were folded into the celebration. With other groups “it was, do you want to partner with us and what would that look like?” Roberts said.

The result was a variety of community activities including music, historical tours, cultural events, an ice cream social, a community picnic, and more.

Information on the full slate of events, including how to register for the July 4 parade and July 5’s fun run/walk, can be

found at tinyurl.com/adrianbicentennial. Here’s a look at some of what’s on tap.

Thursday, July 3

The celebration begins Thursday, July 3, at the Adrian City Market Pavilion on Toledo Street. An ice cream social kicks off the festivities at 6:30 p.m., featuring free servings to the first 200 attendees. A concert by the Adrian City Band and the Lenawee Community Chorus follows at 7 p.m.

See BICENTENNIAL, page D4

This aerial view of Adrian from 1866 shows the city as it looked in its early years. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

This Month in Downtown Adrian:

June

First Friday - Tee it Up

Friday, June 6th

Shop and Stroll- Dad’s Day Deals

Saturday, June 14th

Celebrate the dads (and dad jokes) in your life at Shop & Stroll: Dad’s Day Deals! Stroll through downtown to snag special offers, and gift-worthy finds from your favorite local shops. Whether you’re shopping for Dad or with Dad, it’s the perfect way to kick off Father’s Day weekend.

Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday, June 14th

Join us as the Lenawee County NAACP proudly presents a day of freedom, culture, and community at the annual Juneteenth Celebration!

Third Thursday

Thursday, June 19th

Come downtown to enjoy live music by the talented Jaelyn Rain and Wilson & Brenner on the street!

What’s Happenin’ Wednesday

Wednesday, June 25th

Downtown is shining a spotlight on its service businesses, as many will be extending their hours this day! Whether it's a quick errand run, late appointment, or you just want to support local, come on down!

Want to win hundreds in Downtown Dollars? Play in the downtown scavenger hunt! Download the TownTrek app, create an account and then find the code for hunts on the Downtown Adrian Facebook page.

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Putt your way around downtown at First Friday: Tee It Up! We’re bringing mini golf to the streets, plus bounce houses, live music by Mojo & the Outlaws, and an unforgettable performance by Poppet the Contortionist. Enjoy free temporary tattoos, amazing food trucks, and shop from a variety of local vendors. Fun for all ages—don’t miss it! #ItHappensDowntown

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ comes to the Croswell in June

ADRIAN — In 1996, Robin Williams and Nathan Lane topped the box office with “The Birdcage,” a movie about a gay couple whose son gets engaged to the daughter of a conservative senator. The movie spent three weeks as the country’s top-selling film, but what’s less wellknown is the fact that before it came to Hollywood, the story started out on stage — as a French play called “La Cage Aux Folles” that was later adapted into both a film and a musical.

The musical, which features music and lyrics by Jerry Herman and a book by Harvey Fierstein, opened on Broadway in 1983. And it is this version of the story that will come to the stage in Adrian this month in a production by the Croswell Opera House.

The production opens June 13, and performances will take place over two

weekends. It is the second show in the Croswell’s 2025 Broadway Season.

This version of the story takes place in a drag nightclub in Saint-Tropez, along the French Riviera. The main characters are Georges, the manager of a nightclub, and Albin, his husband and star performer. Chaos comes into their lives when their son announces his engagement to the daughter of a politician who opposes everything they stand for. The result is both a comedy and a heartfelt story about the importance of love and family.

Among the show’s most memorable musical numbers is the first-act finale,

“I Am What I Am,” which came to be viewed as an international gay anthem and has been recorded by a number of artists, including Gloria Gaynor.

See ‘LA CAGE AUX FOLLES,’ page D11

ASO plans summer chamber music series at Holy Rosary

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — It’s one thing to hear classical music performed by a full orchestra in a vast concert hall. It’s quite another thing to have the up-close-andpersonal experience provided when artists perform in recital in a smaller setting.

The Adrian Symphony Orchestra’s newest endeavor, a three-concert Summer Chamber Series, brings that much more intimate experience to audiences.

The concerts, all of which begin at 7:30 p.m., are slated for Wednesday, June 25; Wednesday, July 23; and Wednesday, Aug. 27.

All three of the performances will be held in Holy Rosary Chapel on the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ Motherhouse campus at 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive. Tickets are $25 per concert or $75 for series tickets. Student tickets are free of charge at the box office with a valid student ID.

Tickets and more information are available online at www. adriansymphony.org or by calling 517264-3121.

All seating is general admission. A special reserved section is available to those who purchase tickets for the full three-concert package.

The June 25 concert features the acoustic string duo Warren & Flick. The pair — Jacob Warren on double bass and Grant Flick on violin, tenor guitar,

and an instrument called a nyckelharpa — plays genre-blending original music that comes out of their expertise in everything from classical music and jazz to bluegrass and folk.

ASO Music Director Bruce Anthony Kiesling said that the pair was recommended to him by Danielle Belen, a member of the University of Michigan music faculty whose own Summer

Chamber Series concert comes later on. Additionally, Warren previously played bass with the ASO.

“They’re attracting a lot of attention right now,” Kiesling said. With the duo’s focus on American musical idioms, even though they perform original pieces, “I think [the music] feels so familiar to people, and I think this will set a tone for the series.”

The summer’s second concert on July 23 features a performer who will be familiar to ASO audiences: pianist Dominic Cheli. Cheli wowed the orchestra’s audiences in recent years with two powerhouses of the piano repertoire, Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff’s “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.”

See CHAMBER MUSIC, page D11

A previous concert by members of the Adrian Symphony Orchestra at Holy Rosary Chapel is seen in this photo from 2019.

“La Cage Aux Folles,” the musical that inspired the movie “The Birdcage,” is the second show in the Croswell Opera House’s 2025 Broadway Season.

The city band already performs a concert of patriotic music this time of year, and when the community chorus wanted to be part of the bicentennial celebration it made sense for the two groups to team up, Adrian City Band director Brian Gorski said.

Among the program’s tunes are an arrangement of patriotic songs titled “Our America,” an Irving Berlin medley, the “Armed Forces Salute,” and an arrangement of “America the Beautiful” that Gorski originally created for band and re-worked to add the vocals.

The Adrian City Band itself is part and parcel of Adrian’s history and, in fact, has roots dating back almost as far as the city itself.

Its original iteration was as the Adrian Brass Band, which was founded in 1838, and so “there’s been a community band providing music in Adrian for almost 188 years,” Gorski said.

The group changed and developed over time, at one point becoming the Imperial Brass Band. It gradually expanded beyond brass instruments and became a full-sized band, with instruments of every sort except strings.

Today, the Adrian City Band is the country’s second oldest continually operating band, bested only, Gorski said, by a band in Pennsylvania that’s only about a year and a half older. Its musicians range in age from 12 to almost 90 and run the gamut as far as musical experience.

Friday, July 4

Independence Day begins with the Civitan/Adrian Bicentennial Fourth of July Parade, which steps off at 10 a.m. and heads through downtown Adrian. Next, at noon in Comstock Park, the time capsule that was buried in the park for the city’s 175th birthday will be opened.

The Croswell Opera House, Michigan’s oldest theater, hosts three events starting in the afternoon. First up is an open house from 2-6 p.m. with costumed historical interpreters on hand to talk about the venue’s 159-year history. Silent films will play in the theater throughout the afternoon, giving guests a 1920s-style movie experience.

A talk about the Croswell’s role in early Adrian history, the famous figures who have been on its stage, its 50 years as a movie theater, and its revival in the 1960s as a home for live performance, takes place at 6 p.m.

Then at 7 p.m., guests can take a behind-the-scenes tour of little-seen places in the theater, including views of the original 1866 construction. The tour involves several staircases and a short ladder, so participants are advised to dress accordingly.

July 4’s other events include a

commemoration of Adrian’s sister city relationship with Moriyama, Japan, at 2 p.m. in Friendship Alley; a walking tour of Comstock Park, the downtown area, and the fire station, which will have a historic exhibit, at 5 p.m. as part of First Friday activities; and a talk on Adrian’s history by Dr. Howard Pennington at the First Presbyterian Church, 156 E. Maumee St., at 7 p.m.

Those who cannot make the walking tour can do a self-guided tour complete with geocaching.

Finally, at 10 p.m., Comstock Park is the place to view the fireworks display capping off the holiday.

Saturday, July 5

July 5’s activities start at 8 a.m. with the Bicentennial Bolt, a 5K race/1-mile walk beginning at Trestle Park. Entry is $5 and participants get a T-shirt.

Some of Adrian’s most stately old homes get their chance to shine on both July 5 and 6 in the Parade of Homes taking place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 5 and from 9 a.m. to noon July 6.

Nine architecturally significant homes, in various parts of the city, are part of the tour. Tickets are $30 each and limited to 200 tickets. All proceeds go to support the Adrian Center for the Arts.

For more information on each home and to order tickets, go to www. adrianparadeofhomes.org.

For those interested in seeing a classic American pastime in its old-fashioned form, a vintage “base ball” — as it was once called — game pitting the Walker Tavern Wheels against the Detroit Nine takes place at noon at Island Park. Adrian’s own historic baseball team, the Page Fence Giants, will be recognized at the game.

Later that day comes the annual Ragtime Extravaganza hosted by the River Raisin Raisin Ragtime Revue, or R4. Activities kick off at 2 p.m. at the PlaneWave Instruments campus at 1375 N. Main St. (M-52).

The event features a wide variety of entertainment along with children’s activities, booths by local historical organizations and service groups, vintage automobiles on parade, food trucks and craft beer, PlaneWave tours, and more.

Local, regional, and national performing artists include Adrian singer Braxton Garza; Los Hermanos, also of Adrian; Ragtime Rick and The Chefs of Dixieland, a jazz and ragtime group based in Toledo; New York-based folk performer Jerron Paxton; and of course R4 itself to wrap up the day’s music.

R4 will present two ragtime pieces directly connected to Adrian’s heritage: “A Page Fence March,” published by the Page Woven Fence Co. of Adrian in 1898, and “Adrian Merchants Jubilee,” which dates to 1899. More music with an Adrian connection comes earlier in the day when Garza sings some tunes written by IrishAmerican songwriter J.R. Shannon, who grew up in Adrian more than 100 years ago.

Also on R4’s program are two pieces not directly about Adrian but which nevertheless evoke the city’s history. One is Scott Joplin’s “Chrysanthemum,” performed to honor Adrian’s one-time status as “The Chrysanthemum City” thanks to its production of those flowers, while the second is Luckey Robert’s “Railroad Blues,” in a nod to the city’s railroad history.

Finally, R4 will premiere “Maple City Rag,” a piece commissioned by the city and composed by William R. Hayes, who will be present at the event. Hayes also gifted a concert band arrangement of his new work to the Adrian City Band for future performances.

The Extravaganza concludes with the weekend’s second fireworks display.

William Pemberton, R4’s executive director, said the event has something for everyone.

“There are plenty of free activities for youngsters, including a make-it-take-it area, musical instrument petting zoo, children’s magician, and bounce house. The featured musical entertainment is top-notch. History buffs will enjoy the Adrian historical exhibits and vintage cars on display. This event is all about showcasing Adrian as a community,” he said.

“We think people will leave the event smiling and thinking to themselves, ‘who knew history could be so fun?’ ”

July 6

led by Adrian Mayor Angela Sword Heath, of Oakwood Cemetery, Monument Park, and other locations.

Then at noon, the entire celebration comes to a close with a community picnic at Comstock Park. People are invited to bring their picnic baskets and blankets, or purchase lunch from one of the food trucks on hand, and watch as a new time capsule is buried at the park.

The time capsule will contain a wide range of items from members of the community, including a copy of the “Maple Leaf Rag” premiered by R4 at the Ragtime Extravaganza and a special Land Acknowledgment which the Adrian Dominican Sisters helped draft.

The Land Acknowledgment recognizes and honors the ancestral people who came from, and continue to be, part of the land on which Adrian stands today: the Meskwaki, Bodewadomi (later known as Potawatomi), Odawa, and Ojibwe peoples. It also calls for the city to be “at the center of healing social and racial injustices suffered by those who were denied the opportunity to raise their families here.” Bicentennial from page D1

The Adrian Center for the Arts, which along with R4 is housed on the PlaneWave campus, celebrates its 10th anniversary at the Extravaganza by presenting outdoor art demonstrations and exhibits.

The bicentennial festivities wrap up Sunday, July 6, with three events, two of which begin at 9 a.m.: the second day of the Parade of Homes and a bike tour starting at the Farmers Market Pavilion,

This view of South Main Street, looking south, shows downtown Adrian as it appeared in the 1870s. LENAWEE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The Croswell Opera House, shown here as it appeared in the 1920s, is the oldest theater in the state. An open house, historical talk and tour will take place at the Croswell on July 4.

Addison Comstock, the founder of Adrian.

Community-led initiative aims to document and celebrate Adrian’s Hispanic heritage

ADRIAN — As part of Adrian’s Bicentennial celebration, a communityled cultural initiative hosted through LLEAD Adrian, titled Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad (Roots of Our Community), will honor the 200-year legacy of Hispanic and Latinx residents in Adrian and Lenawee County. Through storytelling, art, and cultural education, the event aims to uplift immigrant voices and foster a stronger sense of unity within Adrian.

The bicentennial event will highlight the lasting impact of Hispanic and Latinx communities in shaping the area’s agricultural economy, perseverance through societal racism and injustices, civic leadership, religious leadership, public service, triumphs for workers rights, and Adrian’s diverse cultural landscape. It will also work to honor individuals dedicated to the betterment of those in need.

As part of the initiative, community members will be invited to attend free,

drop-in cultural classes that provide opportunities to explore Hispanic and Latinx traditions. These classes may include heritage-based arts, storytelling, culinary experiences, language enrichment, and more. Classes will be open to all ages, and the public is encouraged to participate regardless of background.

Event times, dates, and locations will be announced soon on the Adrian Bicentennial website.

In addition to classes, Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad will feature two major storytelling projects:

Art & Memory Reconstruction: Local volunteers — including Adrian High School and Adrian College art students — will help recreate symbolic items and photographs that families may have lost during migration. Artworks may be displayed publicly with consent, or kept private if families choose. All privacy decisions will be respected.

A vintage “base ball” game at noon on July 5 at Island Park ties the bicentennial celebration to Adrian’s history in a few different ways. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, one of Adrian’s leading employers was the Page Woven Wire Fence Company. This was also well before the sport of baseball was desegregated, and Adrian fielded a team — the Page Fence Giants — in what was then called the Negro Leagues. This photo shows the Page Fence Giants from 1896.

This photo shows what is now the 100 block of East Maumee Street in the late 19th century. A few items of note: The tracks for Adrian’s streetcar system can be seen running

Oral History and Story Preservation: Families will be invited to write or record personal and family stories with the help of volunteers such as writers, journalists, bilingual individuals, students, and compassionate community members. Stories may be archived — only with permission — in the Adrian District Library’s historical collection. Families may also opt to preserve their stories in print without digital upload.

The goals of Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad are to:

n Celebrate the 200 years of Hispanic and Latinx contributions in Adrian and Lenawee County.

n Educate the public on the oftenoverlooked history of local Latinx communities and community leaders.

n Help younger generations — especially first- and second-generation children of immigrants — connect with their culture and language.

Bicentennial

from page D4

Anyone who wants to have an item placed in the time capsule can pick up a special business-sized envelope at the Lenawee Historical Museum and then return it with their item inside to the museum, the Adrian District Library, or Adrian City Hall.

In keeping with the nostalgic theme, the first 200 children at the picnic will receive free old-fashioned games. The Adrian Armory will also host activities and serve refreshments.

Another event taking place over the weekend looks at the heritage and

n Welcome residents from neighboring counties and express gratitude for their role in building a diverse, vibrant, and greater city of Adrian.

n Foster unity within the Hispanic and Latinx community as well as with Adrian’s non-Hispanic and non-Latinx populations.

Organizers are calling on writers, bilingual speakers, students, artists, and caring neighbors to volunteer for this initiative. Anyone interested in teaching, assisting families, or helping with story or art collection is encouraged to reach out.

For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, contact LLEAD Adrian at latinoleadadrian@gmail.com.

As Adrian marks two centuries of growth and change, Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad stands as a celebration of identity, memory, and the strength of a united community.

impact of Adrian’s Hispanic and Latinx community.

LLEAD Adrian will host Raíces de Nuestra Comunidad, a cultural initiative featuring storytelling, art, and education. Times and locations for the activities will be posted at tinyurl.com/ adrianbicentennial.

Roberts, the bicentennial committee’s head, said that the celebration’s scope has been made possible by the many sponsors who got on board. “We’ve had great support. It’s been amazing,” she said. “We’ll get to do some things that we didn’t think we’d be able to.”

After all, she said, for a city to celebrate its 200th birthday is “a once in a lifetime opportunity. … So come and enjoy.”

Ragtime Revue announces winner of ‘Maple City Rag’ cover contest

ADRIAN — Local artist Doris DeNudt was chosen as the winner of a contest to provide the cover artwork for a bicentennial ragtime composition commissioned by the city of Adrian.

The contest was sponsored by Adrian Center for the Arts and River Raisin Ragtime Revue, who will premiere “Maple City Rag” at the July 5 Ragtime Extravaganza bicentennial celebration. ACA will be celebrating their 10th anniversary at the event.

A panel of judges from R4 and ACA selected DeNudt’s artwork as the winner. Her design will be published on the sheet music cover for the piece, and a copy will be included in Adrian’s bicentennial time capsule.

DeNudt is an artist from Riga who works primarily in acrylic figurative paintings.

“There’s a storytelling element to a music cover — so much has to be conveyed in a single image,” she said. “I tend to work with images that seem unrelated at first, but come together in ways that feel inevitable, like they were always meant to share the same space.”

DeNudt holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. More of her work can be found at mi2pid.com.

“Maple City Rag” will be on sale at the July 5 Ragtime Extravaganza and is suitable for both piano performance and framing. A display of all the finalists’ submissions, including the winning entry, will also be featured at the event.

The cover of “Maple City Rag,” which was commissioned by the city for Adrian’s bicentennial and will have its debut performance on July 5 at the River Raisin Ragtime Revue’s Ragtime Extravaganza.

Doris DeNudt

down Maumee Street, and the roofline of the Croswell Opera House, which at the time did not directly front onto the street, is in the background.

Events for kids and teens at the Adrian District Library

ADRIAN — The Adrian District Library is hosting a variety of activities and special programs for children and teens. Events will be held at the library, located at 143 E. Maumee St. in Downtown Adrian.

Kid Tuesdays

Kid Tuesdays offers activities every Tuesday from 3 to 4 p.m.

June 10: On Tuesday, June 10, kids can make their own tie-dye creation. White bandanas will be available to tiedye, while supplies last. The event will be held outside in Library Square, weather permitting, or in the Community Room in the lower level of the library.

June 17: A Magic Workshop will be held on Tuesday, June 17. Participants will learn magic tricks. There’s no cost to attend, but registration for this session is required. Reserve your child’s spot online or by calling the library.

June 24: Messy Art Day offers a variety of stations available to “mess” around with. Participants should wear clothes that are okay to get messy. The event will be held outside in Library Square, weather permitting, or in the Community Room in the lower level of the library.

Teen Thursdays

Teen Thursdays offers activities every Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m. as part of the “Color Our World” themed Summer Reading Program.

June 12: On June 12, teens can make their own tie-dye creation. White bandanas will be available to tie-dye, while supplies last. The event will be held outside in Library Square, weather permitting, or in the Community Room in the lower level of the library.

June 26: Messy Art Day offers a variety of stations available to “mess” around with. Participants should wear clothes that are okay to get messy. The event will be held outside in Library Square, weather permitting, or in the Community Room in the lower level of the library.

There’s no cost to participate, and registration is not required for Teen Thursday activities.

Kids of all ages are also encouraged to sign up for the library’s summer reading challenge any time this summer for the chance to earn prizes.

The Adrian District Library is at 143 E. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian. Learn more by visiting adrian.lib.mi.us or calling 517-265-2265.

June events at county library branches

ADRIAN — The following events are coming up in June at branches of the Lenawee District Library.

Summer Reading Program: The Summer Reading Program begins June 9 and offers programs for all ages.

Short Story Journals: Kids of all ages can drop by the Addison Branch library on Friday, June 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. to write and illustrate short stories in journals. All materials will be provided and registration is not required. The library is at 103 S. Talbot St.

Retro Rewind Movie: The main branch, 4459 West U.S. 223 in Adrian, presents the ’90s comedy movie “Camp Nowhere,” rated PG, on Tuesday, June 10 at 2 p.m.

Paint-Pour Coasters: Teens ages 13-17 can drop by the Addison Branch library on Wednesday, June 11, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. to make coasters using the popular paint-pour method. Registration is not required. The branch is at 103 S. Talbot St. Taper Candle Painting: Adults can drop by the main branch on Thursday, June 12, from 2-3 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. to paint candles for a unique home décor item. All materials will be provided and registration is not required. The library is at 4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian.

Dinosaur Dimensions: The past comes to life with Dinosaur Dimensions on Friday, June 13, at 1 p.m. During this all-ages program, attendees will enjoy an up-close experience with dino puppets. Audience participation and photo opportunities with the dinosaurs are included. Tickets are required and can be picked up one hour beforehand. The library is at 4459 West U.S. 223 in Adrian. Call 517-263-1011 with questions.

Messy Monday: On Monday, June 16, bring the little ones to the main branch from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for a variety of fun, sensory-explorative stations and activities. While Messy Monday is geared toward ages 0-5, older siblings are welcome. The library is at 4459 West U.S. 223 in Adrian.

Paint-Pour Coasters: Teens ages 13-17 can drop by the main branch on Tuesday, June 17, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

to make coasters using the popular paint-pour method. Registration is not required. The library is at 4459 West U.S. 223 in Adrian.

Steven’s Puppets: The main branch presents a whimsical puppet show on Wednesday, June 18 at 2 p.m. All ages are welcome. Tickets are required and can be picked up one hour beforehand. The library is at 4459 West U.S. 223 in Adrian. Call 517-263-1011 with questions.

Introduction to Watercolor Painting with Haley Jula: Local watercolor artist Haley Jula will lead an introduction to watercolor painting class at the main branch on Thursday, June 19. There will be a class from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and another from 6 to 7:30 p.m. All materials will be provided. Registration is required and is for ages 18 and up. Call 517-263-1011 to sign up.

Cuellar’s Critters: Cuellar’s Critters will be visiting all the branches of the Lenawee District Library in June. Visit lenawee.lib.mi.us/calendar for dates, times, and locations.

Drummunity: Come together with others at the Lenawee District Library main branch on Monday, June 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to create unique music using hand drums and percussion toys with Drummunity. All ages welcome. Tickets are required and can be picked up one hour beforehand. Call 517-263-1011 with any questions.

Pajama Party Storytime: Put on your pajamas and head to the main branch for a special pajama party storytime on Tuesday, June 24 at 10:30 a.m. Kids will be able to make a craft, enjoy a snack, and get their photo taken with a book friend. Storytime is geared toward ages 0-5, but older kids are welcome.

Science Idol: The Imagination Station is returning to the Lenawee District Library main branch on Wednesday, June 25 at 2 p.m. Attendees will put their science knowledge to the test with different challenges. Designed for ages 8 and up but all are welcome. For more June events at the branches of the Lenawee District Library, visit lenawee.lib.mi.us.

JUNE

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.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park: The Oh Boys Southern Michigan Center for Science and Industry, 6:30 p.m.

For more than a decade, the Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park series has been bringing talented acoustic groups and singersongwriters to play free concerts in Hudson. A mix of genres are featured, but the concert series favors acoustic music and singer-songwriters performing original work.

Tonight’s band is Chicagobased trio The Oh Boys, a vintage-inspired powerhouse of pop, rock, folk and doo-wop, whose songs feature tight harmonies, inventive arrangements, and poignant lyrics.

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

Encore Dance Studio’s 2025 Showcase Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 6:30 p.m. Students of Encore Dance Studio present “A Love Letter to Dance.” Additional performances on Friday and Saturday. $22/$26.

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh 517-423-6617 or thetca.org

‘Detroit Tigers: Michigan’s Favorite Sports Team’ author talk Tecumseh District Library, 6:30 p.m.

An evening with Roger Yoder, the author of “Detroit Tigers: Michigan’s Favorite Sports Team,” a tribute to one of baseball’s most storied franchises.

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

Adrian City Band Concert

Adrian Farmers Market, 7:30 p.m.

The Adrian City Band, which is one of the oldest continuously active municipal bands in the United States, kicks off its summer concert series and 188th season with a joint concert with Five Lakes Silver Band, a Britishstyle brass band based in metro Detroit. Bring your own seating. Free. 115 Toledo St., Adrian

FRIDAY, JUNE

6

Opening day for Bohn Pool

Riverside Park, 12:30 to 6 p.m.

Early-bird registration is open through June 5. Early-bird rates for city of Adrian residents and Adrian Public School students are $50 individual, $125 family. Non-resident rates are $85 individual, $190 family. Swim lessons are available.

517-264-4876 or adrianparks.recdesk.com

Annual Ktap Benefit

Onsted American Legion, 2-10:30 p.m.

A concert in memory of Korey Taphouse, with 50/50 raffles, cash prizes, and music by Leadfoot and five other bands throughout the day.

333 Conner St., Onsted

Adrian First Fridays: Tee It Up

Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

This month’s First Friday event in downtown Adrian includes free miniature golf, inflatables, food trucks, and vendors. 517-264-4815 or adrianff2016@gmail.com

First Friday Car Show

Lenawee County Fair and Event Grounds, 5-8 p.m.

The monthly car show at the fairgrounds features a different theme each month. This month’s theme is Corvettes, Convertibles and Stock Cars, and live music will be provided by Jaded Soul. Other offerings include food trucks and activities for kids. Car shows will take place every first Friday through October.

602 N. Dean St., Adrian 517-673-7553

ARCA Menards Series

Michigan International Speedway, 5 p.m. Watch the rising stars of racing as they take on the track in the ARCA Menards Series. 12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn mispeedway.com

Encore Dance Studio’s 2025 Showcase Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 6:30 p.m.

Students of Encore Dance Studio present “A Love Letter to Dance.” Additional performances on Saturday. $22/$26. 400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh 517-423-6617 or thetca.org

Neil Diamond tribute concert

Dawson Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

The Adrian Symphony Orchestra presents a concert by Sweet Caroline, a Neil Diamond tribute band. A 6:30 p.m. patio party before the concert is free to all ticketholders, weather permitting. $29-$39, with discounts for seniors and students.

229 S. Charles St,. Adrian 517-264-3121 or adriansymphony.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Morenci Summer Saturdays Downtown Morenci, all day

The Morenci Downtown Development Authority is expanding its events this summer with the launch of Summer Saturdays. For June, activities include the Run for the Roses 5K starting at 9 a.m., free pony rides and lawn games from 4-6 p.m. behind North Street Pub, a 6:48 p.m. broadcast of the Belmont Stakes horse race at the Rex Theater, and music behind the Pub starting at 7:30 p.m.

More info: 517-605-1020

Autism Walk of Grace

The Centre, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Annual fundraiser for Autism GRACE of Lenawee. Participate in crafts, games, and activities provided by other organizations sharing information about their resources for families with loved ones on the autism spectrum.

1800 U.S. 223, Adrian autismgrace.org

NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series

Michigan International Speedway, noon 12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn mispeedway.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Summer Reading Kickoff

Adrian District Library, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Participants are encouraged to sign up for the library’s summer reading challenge during this event, which is open to all ages and includes music by DJ Innocent, crafts, cotton candy supplied by Knights in Shining Aprons, and face painting provided by the Lenawee Youth Council.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi,us

Encore Dance Studio’s 2025 Showcase Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Students of Encore Dance Studio present “A Love Letter to Dance.”

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh 517-423-6617 or thetca.org

Truck and Car Meet

Adrian Mall, 6 p.m.

Road Warriors Truck Group presents their first truck and car meet. Bring your builds and enjoy the event, but please refrain from burnouts and four wheelers.

1357 S. Main St., Adrian Katlyn.brehm21@gmail.com

Miss Bouvèé: A Night with Our Queen of Drag

The Croswell Opera House, 7 p.m.

Eric Swanson, star of the 2023 film “Big Easy Queens” and former executive director of the Detroit Actors Theater Company, brings Miss Minnie Bouvèé, the Southern Belle of Drag, back to the Croswell for a return engagement joined by pianist Rick Leonard. Lively entertainment in a piano bar atmosphere will have you clapping, dancing, singing, and laughing along. The event takes place in Farver’s at the Croswell, the bar located just off the Croswell’s main lobby. $50.

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

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

Blue Steel Automotive’s Annual Car & Bike Show

Blue Steel Automotive, 11 a.m. Annual car and bike show put on by Blue Steel Automotive, a Tecumseh business that does restoration, custom paint, collision and customization work.

509 Mohawk St., Tecumseh 517-438-0572 or bluesteelautomotive.com

NASCAR Cup Series

Michigan International Speedway, 2 p.m. 12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn mispeedway.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 10

Pedal the Hills

Hidden Lake Gardens, 6-10 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of bicycling or walking at Hidden Lake Gardens. This is an opportunity to explore over six miles of paved trails, surrounded by beautiful scenery and highlights of the Gardens. Walk or bring your own bicycle to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Helmets are recommended for all cyclists. Cycling permitted on paved trails only. The Sky Walk and hiking trails will be open for exploration on foot. For safety, Woodland Drive and Arboretum Road will be closed to motorized vehicles during this event. Free admission for Hidden Lake Gardens members and cardholders of the Adrian District Library, Lenawee County Library, Stair District Library or Tecumseh District Library. Regular admission rates apply to all other visitors.

6214 Monroe Rd., Tipton 517-431-2060 or hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

Summer Reading Program

Ice Cream Social

Lenawee District Library, 2-3 p.m.

Celebrate the start of the library’s Summer Reading Program by signing up at this ice cream social at the main branch. All ages welcome.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian lenawee.lib.mi.us

Local History Trivia Night

Adrian District Library, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The Adrian library presents local history trivia in celebration of Adrian’s bicentennial. 143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

Meet the Kiddoodles

Adams Park, Tecumseh, 7 p.m.

Meet the Kiddoodles — a homegrown group of local entertainers presenting a show aimed at the 8-and-under crowd. The show is a halfhour long, followed by an additional halfhour “dance party” where the audience can sing, dance and meet the group.

309 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

Car & Bike Show

Springbrook Commons, 5-8 p.m.

Take in the sights at this car and bike show in Springbrook Commons on the west side of Blissfield. Entertainment for all ages will be offered. Free.

628 W. Adrian St., Blissfield

Car Cruise

CR Motors of Adrian, 5-7 p.m.

All makes and models are welcome at this car cruise-in that also includes food trucks and music by DJ Rudy Flores. T-shirts for the first 50 people to register a vehicle. Free.

1211 East U.S. 223, Adrian 517-266-5900 crchryslerdodgejeepram.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

Women Veterans Recognition Day

Dinner

Adrian Armory, 5:30 p.m.

All women veterans are invited to a free dinner to honor their service. There will be door prizes and a guest speaker. This date marks the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which was signed in 1948 allowing women to serve as permanent, regular members of the U.S. military. This event is free to women veterans. To register go to forms.gle/ffvcfpzjRJx2QAqz5. 230 W. Maumee St., Adrian

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

Blood Drive

Adrian Eagles #2371, noon to 5:45 p.m.

The Adrian Eagles #2371 will host an American Red Cross blood drive. To make an appointment, call 800-733-2767. 2522 W. Beecher Road, Adrian

Summer Concert Series: Ol’ Creek Road

Bicentennial Park, 7-9 p.m.

Live music returns to downtown Blissfield as the Summer Concert Series presents Ol’ Creek Road. Bring a chair or blanket, or grab a seat at one of the picnic tables in Bicentennial Park. Free.

107 S. Lane St, Blissfield 517-486-4347 mainstreet@blissfieldmichigan.gov

North Street Pub concert series: Lincoln Street Therapy

North Street Pub, 8-11 p.m. Morenci’s North Street Pub presents live music outdoors on the second Friday of each month.

113 North St., Morenci facebook.com/NorthStreetPubMorenci 517-458-6469

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

Opening night for the musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage,” starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. This rollicking and heartwarming musical takes place in a drag nightclub in the south of France. Georges and Albin are happy in their lives as nightclub owner and star performer, but after 20 years of marriage, things turn rocky for the couple when their son becomes engaged to the daughter of a prominent politician who opposes everything they stand for. This show features memorable tunes such as “I Am What I Am,” “The Best of Times,” and “A Little More Mascara.” Continues Saturday, Sunday and next weekend. Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26.

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

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Clinton Summerfest & Antique Tractor Show

Tate Park, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Highlights of this event include 100 antique tractors on display, hay rides, and games and activities for kids. Live auction at 1 p.m., parade at 3:30 p.m., and entertainment throughout the day. Free.

475 W. Michigan Ave., Clinton

Worldwide Knit in Public Day

Tink & The Frog, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Worldwide Knit in Public Day is the largest annual celebration of knitting and crocheting where makers around the world take their projects outside to share the joy of crafting in community. Bring your chair, your current work-in-progress, and your favorite beverage as you join fellow crafters in relaxing, creating, and watching the world go by one stitch at a time. If it rains, knitters will move to downtown locations like the Buzz Cafe & Marketplace, Musgrove & Co., or Mammoth Distilling. Free.

128 E Maumee St, Adrian tinkandfrogyarnshop.com

Juneteenth Celebration

Downtown Adrian, 1-8 p.m.

Juneteenth is an annual celebration of freedom that commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States — specifically the day when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the Civil War. Activities at the Adrian celebration, organized by the Lenawee NAACP, include cornhole tournaments, a bounce house, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee variety show, an author talk at the Adrian District Library, and live music by Distant Cousinz. For more information, contact Javon Jenkins at 517-759-8537. Free.

517-902-6223 or lenaweenaacp.com

Author visit: Felicia B. George

Adrian District Library, 1:15 p.m.

“When Detroit Played the Numbers: Gambling’s History and Cultural Impact on the Motor City” was selected as a Michigan Notable Book. Author Felicia B. George will speak on stage during the Juneteenth celebration downtown. In case of rain, the talk will move to the community room of the Adrian District Library. Books will be available for purchase in the library’s tent after the talk.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

‘La Cage Aux Folles’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Continues Sunday and next weekend. Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26.

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

Wheels & Wine Show

Cherry Creek Cellars, 6 - 9 p.m.

The event will feature a car show with class prize and live music with Cat Canyon. The featured food truck will be Cousins Maine Lobster (on site at 4 p.m.). The winery will host a swing and dance band, the Monroe Big Band, from 6-9 p.m. ($5 cover for evening music). Register online or call the winery at 517-592-4663. Online Registration: forms.gle/ EqqwDnjaCkXnnZsY9

11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn

SUNDAY, JUNE 15

Open Mic

Cherry Creek Cellars, 2-5 p.m.

Cherry Creek Cellars hosts a music open mic event promising an afternoon filled with a diverse range of musical styles. Beginning at 2 p.m. with a featured artist followed by two hours of musicians you may already know.

11500 Silver Lake Hwy., Brooklyn

‘La Cage Aux Folles’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Continues next weekend. Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26.

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

Father’s Day Dance

Maria’s Sunnyside Cafe, 3-7 p.m. Bring your lawnchairs and come prepared to dance and enjoy good food while listening to the music of Los Hermanos. Free. 2495 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-6734

MONDAY, JUNE 16

Birdwatching vs. Birding

Tecumseh District Library, 6:30 p.m.

Led by expert birder and photographer Greg Bodker, this engaging and photo-rich presentation will explore how these popular outdoor hobbies can improve mental wellbeing, help attract more birds to your backyard, and lead to memorable adventures in nature.

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

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18

Picnic in the Park

Clara Bachmayer Park, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pack your favorite picnic snacks, grab your family and friends, and celebrate International Picnic Day in Blissfield. 113 S Monroe St, Blissfield

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

Downtown Adrian Third Thursdays Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

Downtown Adrian spotlights live music every third Thursday. This month’s featured artists are Jaelyn Rain and Wilson & Brenner. downtownadrian.com

Classic Car & Bike Show

Old National Bank, Tecumseh, 6-8 p.m. Get your motor running and head on down the highway to the 2025 Tecumseh Classic Car & Bike Show Series. Cars and bikes will be displayed in the Old National Bank parking lot located at 205 E. Chicago Blvd. and the adjacent downtown parking lot from 6-8 p.m. for all to enjoy. Special recognition awards will be given each month. Check-in will be held across from Gregory’s Barber Shop, 201 E. Chicago Blvd., between 5:30 and 7 p.m. 205 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh 517-424-6555 downtowntecumseh.com

Music in the Park: Blue Water Ramblers Adams Park, Tecumseh, 6-8 p.m.

Tecumseh’s Music in the Park concert series will include bands performing bluegrass, jazz, classic rock and blues. The Blue Water Ramblers write and sing traditional music with modern themes. Free. 309 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh 517-423-5602 or downtowntecumseh.com

Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park: Mare Wakefield and Nomad Southern Michigan Center for Science and Industry, 6:30 p.m.

For more than a decade, the Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park series has been bringing talented acoustic groups and singer-songwriters to play free concerts in Hudson. A mix of genres are featured, but the concert series favors acoustic music and singer-songwriters performing original work. The June 19 concert features Mare Wakefield and Nomad. Mare Wakefield was born with wanderlust in her DNA. Her rich vocals reflect her travels and range from travelscapes, and hope to barroom brawls. Story and song are woven together by Mare’s intimate delivery and Nomad’s exquisite piano and accordion. Currently based in Nashville, the pair were 2016 and 2015 Kerrville NewFolk finalists and 2015 Falcon Ridge Emerging Artists. 550 E. Main St., Hudson facebook.com/psgraphics123

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Continues Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26.

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 20

Bingo for Books

Adrian District Library, 2:30 p.m.

Grab some friends and your lucky bingo troll and have some fun playing bingo to win books. Ages 7 and up.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

Sunset Solstice Stroll and Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body

Hidden Lake Gardens, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

In partnership with the Lenawee County Department on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association, and Dementia Friendly Services, Hidden Lake Gardens is hosting an informative event for caregivers and families impacted by dementia. During the presentation “Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body” at 7 p.m., family members with dementia are invited to enjoy guided, natureinspired activities in a safe and welcoming space. Luminaries will be available in the Visitors Center Gallery for a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association. Guests are welcome to place them along the sidewalks outside the Visitors Center and on the path leading to the Conservatory as a tribute or symbol of hope.

6214 Monroe Road, Tipton 517-431-2060 or hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Continues Saturday and Sunday. Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26. 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 21

Addison Pop-Up Market

Siggy Parker’s General Store, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Multiple yard sales and vendors. Blend & Brews Crew joining Saturday with specialty coffee and milkshakes. Continues Sunday.

116 S. Steer St., Addison facebook.com/SiggyParkersGeneralStore addison127events@gmail.com

Manitou Beach Summer Festival

Manitou Beach Village, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Land and Lakes Ladies Club presents their annual Summer Festival. Activities in the village include over 45 crafters and vendors, food trucks, raffles, pony rides, face painting, and music featuring Brayden Lape from “The Voice” Season 22.

Touch a Truck

Downtown Blissfield, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Explore the big rigs up close. Bring the whole family to downtown Blissfield for a handson adventure with vehicles of all shapes and sizes. From fire trucks and construction equipment and emergency vehicles, this is your chance to climb aboard, honk the horn, and meet the heroes who keep our community running. Sensory-Friendly Hour, 10 to 11 a.m.: During this time, vehicles will be on display without horns or sirens, providing a calmer experience for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. Free. blissfieldmainstreet.com/touchatruck

Fairy & Pirate Adventure

Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A fun activity for kids. Clue sheets will be available at the table in front of Hopscotch Kids during the event. Once your clue sheet is completed, turn it in at the table in front of Hopscotch Kids to receive a special prize (while supplies last) and enter the drawing for grand prize gift baskets. Put on your favorite pirate or fairy costume and join the fun. Free.

517-424-6003 or downtowntecumseh.com

Paint and Sip Party

Adrian District Library, 1-2:30 p.m.

Paint a canvas freestyle while enjoying some refreshing non-alcoholic lemonades with different colors and special flavors. Acompáñanos a nuestra fiesta de color. Pinta un lienzo estilo libre mientras disfrutas de refrescantes limonadas sin alcohol de diferentes colores y sabores especiales. 143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

D10 | ARTS & LIVING

SATURDAY, JUNE 21

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Continues Sunday. Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26.

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

SUNDAY, JUNE 22

Addison Pop-Up Market

Siggy Parker’s General Store, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Multiple yard sales and vendors. 116 S. Steer St., Addison facebook.com/SiggyParkersGeneralStore addison127events@gmail.com

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

The rollicking and heartwarming musical that inspired the hit movie “The Birdcage.” Adults $26-$46, students $16-$26. 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-264-7469 or croswell.org

MONDAY, JUNE 23

Paint and Sip Party

Adrian District Library, 10-11:30 a.m.

Paint a canvas freestyle while enjoying some refreshing non-alcoholic lemonades with different colors and special flavors. Acompáñanos a nuestra fiesta de color. Pinta un lienzo estilo libre mientras disfrutas de refrescantes limonadas sin alcohol de diferentes colores y sabores especiales. 143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

Author talk: ‘Detroit Lions: An Illustrated Timeline’

Tecumseh District Library, 6:30 p.m.

Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press will discuss his book and his history of writing and photographing the Detroit Lions. A three-time Michigan Sportswriter of the Year, Birkett has covered the Lions for the Free Press since August 2010. He was named one of America’s top 10 beat writers by Associated Press Sports Editors in 2017. A Pro Football Hall of Fame voter, Birkett previously covered the Lions and Michigan and Michigan State football and basketball for The Oakland Press and AnnArbor.com. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh 517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

Black Box Summer Series

Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 7 p.m. The Tecumseh Players showcase their talents at improv, staged readings and of course, a little bit of mayhem. This casual event will include interactive theater and staged readings of “The Kathy and Mo Show” with audience participation. $10. 400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh 517-423-6617 ot thetca.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25

What’s Happenin’ Wednesday

Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

Downtown Adrian invites the public to discover downtown Adrian’s service-oriented businesses in this monthly promotion. 135 E. Maumee St., Adrian downtownadrian.com

Local History Trivia Night

Adrian District Library, 6 to 7:30 p.m. The Adrian library presents local history trivia in celebration of Adrian’s bicentennial. 143 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-265-2265 or adrian.lib.mi.us

Summer Chamber Music Series: Warren & Flick

Holy Rosary Chapel, 7:30 p.m.

Experience genre-blending original music that comes out of this duo’s expertise in everything from classical music and jazz to bluegrass and folk. The first concert in the Adrian Symphony Orchestra’s summer chamber music series. $25.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian adriansymphony.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 26

Glow with Zonta County National Bank, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The local chapter of Zonta International presents a networking event supporting their stand against domestic violence. Food and drinks provided. Please bring female hygiene products to be donated to the Catherine Cobb Safe House. RSVP by June 13 to zontacluboflenawee@gmail.com. $20.

209 E. Russell Rd., Tecumseh 517-403-6939 or zontaoflenawee.org

Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park: The Debutants Southern Michigan Center for Science and Industry, 6:30 p.m.

For more than a decade, the Celebrate Hudson Music in the Park series has been bringing talented acoustic groups and singer-songwriters to play free concerts in Hudson. A mix of genres are featured, but the concert series favors acoustic music and singer-songwriters performing original work. The June 26 concert features The Debutants, a seven-member newgrass/Americana band from Fort Wayne, Indiana. They are known for their unique combination of bluegrass, indie folk, and Americana influences. The band formed from a longstanding friendship between founding members Jon Swain and Lynn Nicholson, who both share a passion for bluegrass music that they began to explore during their teenage years in Fort Wayne. This collaboration led to the establishment of The Debutants in March 2019.

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

Southern Michigan’s Castles, Churches, and Courthouses Tecumseh District Library, 6:30 p.m.

Join historian and author Paul Plassman for an engaging evening celebrating the rich architectural heritage of southern Michigan. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh 517-423-2238 or tecumsehlibrary.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 27

Junior Achievement on the Course for Education Hills of Lenawee Golf Club and Banquet Center, 8 a.m.

A day on the golf course supporting hundreds of young people who participate in programs that promote life skills in personal finance, entrepreneurship, and career development. Sponsored by Junior Achievement of the Michigan Edge. $100/ person; $400 for a team of four; $500 for a team with hole sign.

4110 Country Club Road, Adrian 517-782-7822, ext. 14 cpoisson@jamichiganedge.com

Blissfield Summer Concert Series: 2 Hour Delay Bicentennial Park, 7-9 p.m.

Live music in downtown Blissield. Bring a chair or blanket, or grab one of the picnic tables in Bicentennial Park. Free. 107 S Lane St, Blissfield 517-486-4347 mainstreet@blissfieldmichigan.gov

Fourth Friday Comedy Night

Farver’s at the Croswell, 7 p.m.

Tommy Cook hosts live comedy on the fourth Friday of every month featuring a lineup of local and regional comedians. Seating starts at 7 p.m. Adult language may be involved. Free, but a food or drink purchase is requested.

129 E. Maumee St., Adrian croswell.org/farvers

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

Annual Hosta Sale

Hidden Lake Gardens, 9 a.m.

Choose from a wide variety of wellestablished Hostas in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors — including many unique varieties not commonly found in retail stores. Payment by cash or check only. 6214 Monroe Road, Tipton 517-431-2060 hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu

Sense of Place Home Walk Series

Leaf and Feather Farms, 9 a.m. to noon

The “Sense of Place” Home Walk Series is offered by the Grand-Raisin Conservation Community, one of many member communities of The Stewardship Network. The tour takes place on public and private lands and allows tour guides to share their connections to the places they love. Free. 13980 Calhoun Road, Cement City carleykratz@gmail.com

SUNDAY,

JUNE 29

Pride is Sweet: Tasting Event with Harvest Chocolate Farver’s at the Croswell, 6:30 p.m.

A Pride Month celebration featuring Maya Gangadharan and a lineup of favorite Croswell performers, performing Broadway tunes paired with tastings of gourmet bean-to-bar chocolate by Harvest Chocolate from Tecumseh. $40. 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian www.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 that information is up to date before making plans. To submit listings, email news@lenaweevoice.com before the 15th of the preceding month.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4

Act III, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake.

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

Dude & the Flanman, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. Chobie Shedwell and Keith Stecker, 8-11 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, JUNE 6

Leadfoot and other bands, 2-10:30 p.m., Durkee-Seager Unit 550 American Legion Auxillary, 333 Conner St., Onsted. Phoenix Theory, 5:30-9:30 p.m., Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake. Frank Lars, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Starling Lounge/ Four Keys Brewing, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. Soup Sandwich, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Nasty Nation, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N. Main St., Brooklyn.

Def Leppard tribute by Armageddon, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Miss Bouvèé with Rick Leonard, 7 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian, $50. Bad Mojo Unplugged, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Jaded Soul, 8 p.m. to midnight, Devils Lake Bar & Grille, 6365 U.S. 223, Addison. Guns ‘N Roses Tribute by Paradise City, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

Local Heroes, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake.

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

Frankly Jack, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. Natasha Ricketts, 7:30 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. AP String Duo, 8-11 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

Frankly Jack, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton.

The 1985 Totally 80’s Tribute Music, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Blackstone Steel, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. Leadfoot, 7-10 p.m., Gauci Golf Resort, 8431 Sports Park Dr., Onsted.

Nitro Jen, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N. Main St., Brooklyn. Big L & Code Blu, 7-10 p.m., Tecumseh Tavern, 206 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh. Natasha Ricketts, 8 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian. Linny & Moochie, 6-9 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille and Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. REO Speedway Tribute by Detroit Speedwagon, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two for $50, four for $80, eight for $130.

SUNDAY, JUNE 15

Killer Flamingos, 5:30-9:30 p.m., Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18

Bobby Charles, 6-9 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

Emily Psycher, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. Jon Torrence, 6-9 p.m., Starling Lounge/ Four Keys Brewing, 133 S. Lane St., Blissfield. Anthony Marchese, 7-10 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20

42 North Band, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Act III, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N Main St, Brooklyn.

Stevie Ray Vaughn Tribute by Cold Shot, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21

Hard Cover, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Led Zepplin Tribute by Kashmir, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 22

D Tour Band, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake. Mark Arshack, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2522 W. Beecher Road, Adrian, $5 (nonmembers).

THURSDAY, JUNE 26

Marcus & Tiffany, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. ‘La Cage Aux Folles’ Cast Cabaret: Reunion cabaret with cast members from the Croswell’s “La Cage Aux Folles,” 7 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Bret Maynard, 8-11 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27

Dude & the Flanman, 5:30-9:30 p.m., Beach Bar , 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake. BadMoJo, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Bon Jovi Tribute by Wanted, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

Bordine Loar, 5-8 p.m., Rich Lanes, 622 W. Adrian St., Blissfield. Braxton Garza, 6-9 p.m., Eagle’s Nest Bar & Grill, 1200 Eagle Point Road, Clarklake. Part-Time Help, 7-10 p.m., Flamingo Beach Grille & Bar, 4321 Michigan Ave., Tipton. Flyte, 7-10 p.m., Shady’s Tap Room, 110 N Main St, Brooklyn. Jaded Soul, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2522 W. Beecher Road, Adrian, $5 (nonmembers). Tom Petty Tribute by Teddy Petty & The Refugees, 8 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Two people for $50, four for $80, eight for $130; order at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com Jon Torrence, 8-11 p.m., Chaloner’s Cigar House, 108 W. Maumee St., Adrian

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

50 Amp Fuse, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3505 Ocean Beach Road, Clarklake.

For the upcoming chamber concert, he will perform arrangements for solo piano of Gershwin’s “An American in Paris” and “Rhapsody in Blue” and Bernstein’s “Candide Overture.’’

Belen, the UM professor who brought Warren & Flick to the ASO’s attention, wraps up the series on Aug. 27. Like Cheli, she has soloed previously with the ASO, performing the Bernstein “Serenade” a couple of seasons ago.

Her recital, for which she will be joined by pianist Sarina Zhang, features contemporary American music, in the form of Jessie Montgomery’s Rhapsody No. 1, and French Impressionist music with Debussy’s Sonata for Violin and Piano.

Kiesling said the series was born out of discussions the ASO has had for several years about how to expand into some offerings in the summer. Then the Charlene Bloomfield estate approached the orchestra about helping get a chamber series started that students could attend at little to no cost. Hence, the free admission for students.

Donors have been able to attend recitals by the ASO’s guest artists for a long time now and those “have been wonderful events,” Kiesling said. “But we wanted to have a wider audience able to be there,” and this new series allows that to happen.

Chamber performances give audiences a unique perspective because they get to sit much closer to the action than is possible when a larger ensemble plays in a concert hall. For this series, “people can be close to the musicmaking and have a really intimate experience,” Kiesling said.

And the setting itself will be a huge part of the concert experience.

The acoustic duo Warren & Flick will kick off the ASO’s Summer Chamber Music Series on June 25. The summer’s second concert on July 23 will feature pianist Dominic Cheli. Then, in August, the chamber music season will wrap up with a concert by violinist Danielle Belen and pianist Sarina Zhang.

“Holy Rosary Chapel is such a stunning place, and on a Wednesday evening in the summer, with the light coming through those stained-glass windows? I can’t wait,” he added.

For these concerts, audiences can generally expect a first half that’s about 30 minutes long and contains the more

ASO Summer Chamber Music Series

DATES AND TIMES: 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, June 25, July 23, and Aug. 27

LOCATION: Holy Rosary Chapel, Adrian Dominican Sisters Motherhouse, 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian TICKETS: $25 per concert; free for students with valid student ID TO ORDER: Online at adriansymphony.org or by calling 517-264-3121. Free student tickets are available at the box office with valid student ID.

formal concert fare, then after the intermission a shorter second half where they can learn more about the artists and hear some lighter pieces.

Kiesling said there’s been a lot of interest in the series ever since it was announced at this season’s final classical-music concert back in May, along with the unveiling of the orchestra’s 2025-26 season.

“People are really excited about this,” he said. “It gives them another option for the summer. And it allows us to get some [guest musicians] back here, develop some relationships with these young soloists, and deepen our connection with our community.”

Chiaroscuro men’s chorus holds new member drive

ADRIAN — Chiaroscuro, an Adrianbased community men’s chorus, will begin its membership drive in June on Monday evenings (June 2, 9, 16, and 23) from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Adrian, 1245 W. Maple Ave. Any men interested in singing with the chorus are encouraged to join the current members of the chorus at any or all of the open rehearsals. For more information, go to ChiaroscuroMensChorus.org.

Celebrate the Solstice

ADRIAN — As Earth reaches the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, all are invited to join in a ritual celebration of the Summer Solstice from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22, at Weber Retreat and Conference Center, 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive.

The event is free and open to all. No registration is required.

The Croswell’s production is directed by John MacNaughton, with music direction by Jonathan Sills and choreography by Dean Shullick.

Georges and Albin are played by Eric Parker of Adrian and Johnny Reed of Toledo. Their son, Jean-Michel, is played by Matthew Porter of Adrian, and his fiancee, Anne, is played by Caroline Coy of Ann Arbor.

Anne’s parents are played by Lane Hakel of Hudson and Dawn Kingman of Sylvania, Ohio. Georges and Albin’s butler, Jacob, is played by Evan James Copeland of Toledo.

The cast also includes Everett Hanley, Angie Heath, Kyler Mattoon, Erica Murray, and CaSaundra Taulton, all of Adrian; Amanda Nummy of Ann Arbor; Bella McQuigg of Dundee; Walter Book and Skye Rodriguez of Petersburg; Regan Williams of Saginaw; Cody Ray of Bowling Green, Ohio; Eric Huffman of Delta, Ohio; Ella Orr of Oregon, Ohio; and Nathan Glover and Ekaterina Helpman of Toledo.

“La Cage Aux Folles” opens at the Croswell Opera House on June 13. Performance dates and times are:

n Friday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, June 14 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, June 15 at 2:30 p.m.

n Thursday, June 19 at 7:30 p.m.

n Friday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, June 21 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, June 22 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $26 to $46 for adults, $16 to $26 for students, and may be ordered at croswell.org or by calling the box office at 517-264-7469.

‘La Cage Aux Folles’ from page D3

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