The Lenawee Voice — November 2025

Local bike shop marks 30 years in business » PAGE B1

HOPE Center names executive director

PAGE C1

THE LENAWEE VOICE

NOVEMBER 2025

New administrator sees relationships as critical part of his job » PAGE A3

Palmyra Township opens its first township park » PAGE B1

Welcome to school

After 175 years, Cambridge Township’s Wooden Stone School is still a place of learning

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

CAMBRIDGE TWP. — Once upon a time, one-room schoolhouses dotted the landscape across Lenawee County, serving the 187 separate school districts that existed in the county before World War II.

Of the 21 such schools in the Onsted area alone, one was the Wooden Stone School, built in 1850 by a Universalist minister named Robert Wooden. Wooden donated $500 — a princely sum back when the average worker earned a dollar a day — to replace a schoolhouse on the site that had burned down.

The fieldstone school, at the corner of Stephenson Road and Hawkins Highway, marked its 175th year earlier in 2025 and is the county’s oldest one-room school still in its original location. It served students in Cambridge School District No. 6 until 1955, when it was closed. It was then used by a local Boy Scout troop for its meetings for several years.

After the township condemned the building in 1979, a group of citizens who wanted to save it were successful in postponing the demolition, and in 1983 the property went to the Wooden Old Stone School Association.

Work to bring the school back to its former glory began in 1989. “The first time we came over here, the stones were falling off” the walls, said Ron Ryan, a local historian and the association’s vice president.

“We just felt it was worth saving,” said association president Joy Luck, who was also the group’s president when the initial renovations began — and was, by marriage, part of the Wooden family herself.

More work was done on the building in 2018, especially to the walls and the roof. Although the roof originally had wood shingles, the cost of those led to using regular shingles instead.

Luck was the driving force behind raising funds for the restoration, with some members of her family doing much of the work on the building.

Today, visitors flock to events at the school, such as the inaugural Fall Festival held there early this October, and area schoolchildren take field trips there to see how education used to look and to play vintage games that might have been part of a child’s recess activities many decades ago.

SCHOOL, page A15

Clara Michaluk, dressed in period costume for October’s Fall Family Festival, rings the teacher’s bell as she stands in the schoolhouse doorway at the Wooden Old Stone School near Onsted. PHOTOS BY ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

Sally Freese, in period attire as a schoolteacher, shows visitors a lunchpail typical of what might have been carried by a student.

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train to pass through area on Nov. 22

An event that for years has drawn onlookers to the Norfolk Southern Railway throughout Lenawee County in late November is a few weeks away, as the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is scheduled to pass through the area between 10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22, and 3 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 23.

It’s the 27th year that the Holiday Train, which features boxcars decorated with Christmas lights in artistic displays, has crossed from Canada into the United States at Detroit, then swung southeast through Wayne, Washtenaw, and the northwest corner of Monroe County and into Lenawee County.

The train will pass through Britton, Holloway, Adrian, Sand Creek, North Morenci, and Munson before crossing into Fulton County, Ohio.

No stops are planned in the immediate area, and those who gather to watch the train pass by are reminded to stay a safe distance away from the railroad tracks.

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is pictured on its passage through Winnipeg in 2012. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

LOCAL NEWS

IN BRIEF

Adrian parks director hired as Hudson city manager

HUDSON — Hudson has hired a new city manager, and the city of Adrian will soon be looking for a new parks and recreation director.

Lenawee Voice news

partner Local Buzz Radio reported that Jeremiah Davies, who has been Adrian’s parks and recreation director for four years, was chosen by the Hudson City Council to replace Charles Weir, who will be retiring early next year. Davies was one of five finalists for the position. He is expected to start working with Weir during a transition period that will begin in November.

He was previously one of the finalists for Adrian’s city administrator position.

Before starting his job with the city, Davies worked for Adrian Public Schools as director of community recreation and communications.

Weir, who was previously Hudson’s police chief, had been city manager since 2021.

Hudson woman charged in Toledo cold case

HUDSON — A Hudson woman was arrested after being indicted in October by a Lucas County grand jury on two counts of murder and one each of felonious assault and grand theft auto for alleged offenses that occurred more than seven years ago.

Local Buzz Radio reported that Shelby McCarthy-Smith, 33, is being charged in connection with the April 2018 death of 68-year-old Steve Ricks, whose body was found in a Toledo duplex when police conducted a safety check. Police said there had been forced entry to the home and that Ricks had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head.

Trial in Madison Township murder case delayed again

ADRIAN — Trial for a 75-yearold man facing a murder charge in connection with the shooting death of his wife has been delayed until April, Local Buzz Radio reported.

Stephen Maples’ attorney told Judge Michael Olsaver in October that he doesn’t know when an expert retained by the defense will complete his report.

Olsaver set an April 13 trial date and told defense attorney Charles Noe that he should request the case be moved up the expert’s priority list because the case has been “stagnating for an extended period of time.”

Cathy Maples, a retired teacher, was found dead at the couple’s Madison Township home on Feb. 27, 2023. She had worked for 35 years in Deerfield schools.

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

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

New city administrator aims to build relationships in community

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — To Adrian’s new city administrator, Chad Baugh, forming relationships is a crucial part of what his job is all about.

“Building relationships, strong partnerships, friendships — that’s important to provide services to our citizens,” he said.

Baugh, who started his new role in Adrian on Sept. 22, is a native of Dearborn and was raised in Brownstown Township. His dad was a skilled tradesman and worked for General Motors, while his mother was a teacher.

He went to Southgate Aquinas High School to play football and then got his undergraduate degree in criminal justice from Madonna University and his graduate degree from Eastern Michigan University.

He then went on to serve in law enforcement in Canton Township for almost 30 years, working his way up through the ranks to become the township’s highly regarded director of police services, and also coached both football and girls lacrosse at Dearborn Divine Child High School.

Even though he’d never actually lived in Adrian, Baugh was nevertheless no stranger to the city when he put his hat in the ring to become city administrator.

“There are memories associated with this town,” he said. For many years, his family has spent time regularly at Loch Erin or Lake Somerset, coming into Adrian to eat or shop, and one of his two daughters got her undergraduate degree from Siena Heights University.

He believes that his tenure as a police chief gave him a valuable skill set for his new job in Adrian: experience in what he described as “systems and structure.”

“We’re used to an environment of systems and structure and decisionmaking,” he said, “and within that environment, people are allowed to grow.”

Plus, in his leadership role with the Canton Township police force, “I spent a lot of time with the city administrator solving community problems,” he said.

“It really sets you up for a nice transition.

“But there’s a balance. City departments can’t be run like a police department, and all departments are different.”

Of course, a career in law enforcement definitely had its low points. As a young

patrolman, he was on the scene when a fellow officer was killed, and as chief he dealt with a wide range of difficult issues and definitely got his share of middle-ofthe-night phone calls. But Baugh thinks those experiences also shaped his ability to help people.

“The failures in the past, the wins in the past — they help you grow,” he said.

Chad Baugh, pictured in front of Adrian City Hall, started work as Adrian’s city administrator on Sept. 22. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

See BAUGH, page A4

Jeremiah Davies

Adrian police to step up traffic enforcement

ADRIAN — The Adrian Police Department is planning to step up traffic enforcement by dedicating a car specifically to traffic issues, police chief Vince Emrick told the city commission on Oct. 20.

“We’ve had a lot of serious accidents lately, and I’ve been getting increased complaints,” Emrick said.

Research into the data showed that there is an increasing problem, he said. According to the Office of Highway Safety Planning, although Michigan’s overall crash fatality rate rose only a little in 2024, there were sharp increases in crashes and fatalities involving vulnerable roadway users such as pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, teen deaths rose 17% and deaths resulting from distracted driving rose 10%.

In the city of Adrian, since January 2024, there have been 845 total crashes, of which 46 resulted in minor injuries, 10 resulted in serious injuries, and three caused death.

“You don’t have to think too hard to think of some pretty tragic things that have happened in the city,” Emrick said. The most common crash locations during that period were:

n Intersection of Main and Beecher streets (43 crashes).

n Main and Metcalf, near Friendly Village (26 crashes).

n U.S. 223 and Main (18 crashes).

n Division and Beecher streets (18 crashes).

n U.S. 223 and Sand Creek Highway (17 crashes).

n Winter and Beecher streets (15 crashes).

Emrick noted that the intersection of Main Street and Siena Heights Drive used to be the city’s worst spot for accidents until traffic control at that intersection was changed. “So efforts do work,” he said. “If we can find a solution, they do work and it reduces crashes in that area.”

In response to the increased complaints, the Adrian Police Department is planning to go back to having a dedicated traffic unit on all shifts.

“It’s a dedicated police vehicle for traffic enforcement,” Emrick said. “It’s built a little differently; it’s got a lower profile so it’s harder to tell that it’s a police car coming at you until you’re already past them.”

Although it will be lower-profile, Emrick said, it will still be clearly marked as a police car.

The traffic unit will focus on areas where data shows the greatest need and where there are the most complaints. The officers assigned to the traffic unit will not be dispatched to service calls unless absolutely necessary, with those calls instead being handled by regular patrol units. The vehicle also won’t have a divider between the front and back seats, meaning it will not handle arrests. If an officer assigned to the traffic unit encounters a drunk driver or a warrant arrest, another patrol car will assist them.

Emrick said the costs can be handled entirely within the police department’s current budget, in part because more state funding ended up being available for sending new officers to the police academy than the city originally anticipated.

The vehicle will be leased rather than purchased, Emrick said, so that “if it’s not having the desired outcome, then we’re not locked in.”

Commissioner Gordon Gauss asked about speed monitoring signs that display drivers’ speeds to them. Emrick said the department does sometimes use a speed display sign, but it’s “kind of a double-edged sword.”

“People were almost using it as a challenge to see how fast they could get it to read out,” he said.

City administrator Chad Baugh asked Emrick to clarify whether the unit would have a “zero tolerance” approach to traffic violations or whether officers would still have discretion about whether to ticket drivers. Emrick said officers will still have discretion, because the goal is to change behavior, not to write the maximum amount of citations.

Baugh, who was the police chief in Canton Township before becoming Adrian’s city administrator, also thanked Emrick for taking a measured approach to the idea of leasing vehicles, which he said is becoming more prevalent in policing.

City to get outside review of enhancement grant spending

Lenawee Voice

The

ADRIAN — Acting on a recommendation from the new city administrator, the Adrian City Commission has authorized an outside review of financial controls associated with the $15 million enhancement grant that the city was awarded by the state of Michigan in 2022.

The grant, which took the form of an earmark in that year’s state budget, is being used for a variety of projects, including work on North Winter Street and a planned

town square between the 100 blocks of South Main and South Winter streets.

On Oct. 20, the city commission approved city administrator Chad Baugh’s request to hire UHY Advisors, an audit firm with offices in Farmington Hills, to conduct “a focused review of the financial controls associated with the $15 million enhancement grant.”

The resolution passed by the commission stated that “the proposed review will help confirm that appropriate internal controls are in place to safeguard taxpayer dollars, verify expenditures,

and ensure that all disbursements comply with the approved grant terms and project objectives. This step will also identify any areas where additional safeguards or procedural improvements may be beneficial before major project expenditures occur.”

Baugh told commissioners he believes the review will help the city understand “how the money’s being spent, how it’s been spent to date, and give clear transparency to not only this commission but the citizens” about how the grant is being used.

Commissioner Mary Roberts asked: “Just to be clear, it’s not because we feel that there’s anything nefarious or unethical or illegal going on — it’s just that we kind of lost track of dotting our I’s and crossing our T’s, and so we’re doing our due diligence to make sure we know exactly where the money is?”

Baugh agreed. He also said that he expects to have a report back from the auditors in time for either the Nov. 17 or Dec. 1 commission meeting.

The commission authorized spending up to $9,500 for the review.

Adrian police seeing more thefts from unlocked vehicles at apartment complexes

ADRIAN — The Adrian Police Department reported in October that there has been an increase in property being stolen from unlocked vehicles at apartment complexes.

The majority of larcenies from vehicles are crimes of opportunity that do not target specific individuals, police said. Criminals target locations where large numbers of vehicles are parked and search until they find those that are unlocked. Common locations where criminals search for unlocked vehicles include apartment complexes, college dorms, and stores.

The Adrian Police Department offered the following prevention tips:

n Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it — even for “just a minute.”

n Always roll up the windows and lock the car — even if it’s in front of your home.

n When possible, park in a busy, welllighted area.

n Never leave valuables in plain view — even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or out of sight.

n Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle.

n Install a vehicle immobilizer system (such as smart keys, kill switches, or wireless ignition authentication).

n Install an audible alarm system and/ or tracking system.

If you discover your vehicle has been targeted, please call 911 immediately so an officer can investigate. Even if you believe nothing can be done, your vehicle may be one of many that were targeted the same day.

Baugh

from page A3

The chief’s job also came with its administrative challenges, especially finding and retaining good people as police officers.

“We had to market differently to find folks that met our standards of serving our citizens. But we did it,” he said.

Working in Canton Township meant being part of a highly diverse community, but “people understood that the service we provided was for everyone,” he said.

“We served a community of 100,000 people, and moving the service level to the highest possible level was the highlight of my career.”

In his first few weeks in his new job in Adrian, Baugh has spent a lot of time meeting with a wide range of people in the city, including the department heads, Adrian Public Schools superintendent Nate Parker, the mayor, and the city commissioners. He’s also gotten to know his counterparts in Tecumseh and on the county level, Brett Coker and Kimberly Murphy.

As a result, police say, each individual larceny scene may possess different amounts of evidence or surveillance, and another victim’s case may prove to solve your own.

Anyone with questions or who would like to request extra patrols can contact the police department.

These and other interactions have shown him that “here in this county, you have stakeholders who love Adrian,” he said, “and even if they’re on opposite sides of an issue, they’re not that far apart.”

And, he added, “we have some very talented people who work for the city.”

It all makes him very optimistic for what lies ahead. “There are so many opportunities for the future here. Everyone has done great work.”

Among Baugh’s major immediate issues are to work to bring a solution for the Adrian Mall situation and to deal with Siena Heights’ University’s impending closure to try to ensure its buildings aren’t just sitting there vacant.

He’s also intent on ensuring that the city brings “the highest level of service to all citizens and all visitors,” and added that his focus will always be both on that service and on “finding solutions and building relationships.”

“I want to know what people want and to bring some type of solution,” he said. “That’s who we work for: the citizens.”

The Lenawee Voice

Tim Tebow addresses CPC’s annual fundraiser

The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Former professional football quarterback Tim Tebow was the speaker at the CPC of Lenawee Pregnancy and Family Resource Center’s annual fundraiser, which took place on Oct. 23 in Adrian College’s Dawson Auditorium.

Drawing on his background as an athlete, Tebow told a packed auditorium that “tonight is so much more important than a game could ever be.”

He described his own personal story of being born after a high-risk pregnancy.

“I’m so grateful that I could be here tonight because my mom gave me a chance,” he said.

He also described the pregnancy center’s purpose as a “rescue mission” and urged quick action, saying: “When was the last time you heard of a rescue mission taking place in five years?”

After Tebow’s speech, guests watched a video about the journey that future parents take from the moment they first come to CPC’s resource center in downtown Adrian.

“It’s not just about saving a life, it’s also about raising a child,” executive director Roxanne Meeks said.

She described the growth in the center’s services since it first opened in 1984 and said, “We’re so much more than we were before, and we can become so much more with our community’s support.”

Joined on stage by development director Megan Pippin and ultrasound technician Jessica English, Meeks also shared a story about a young mother who is now studying to become an ultrasound technician after her own experience getting a prenatal ultrasound at CPC’s clinic early in her pregnancy.

CPC is working toward turning a house directly behind its North Broad Street facility into a family resource center.

More information about the organization is available online at cpclenawee.com.

Business networking event planned for Nov. 20 at Adrian Armory

ADRIAN — Lenawee Business Connections, a business networking event, is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 20, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Adrian Armory, 230 W. Maumee St., Adrian. The after-hours networking event is presented by the Adrian Armory, Clever Ideas Marketing and Launch Lenawee.

Attendees can drop in anytime for open networking, appetizers and drinks. A program on two featured businesses, both of which are part of the Armory’s incubator kitchen, will begin at 5:45 p.m.

The cost is $10 per person. Registration is available online at cleverideasmarketing.com/events.

WLEN plans annual Thank a Vet drive

ADRIAN — On Tuesday, Nov. 11, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., volunteers and local radio personalities from Lenawee MultiMedia Services, WLEN, WQTE and 96.5 The Cave will once again line the curb of West Maumee Street to collect donations for the Veterans Dire Need Fund.

Residents are invited to simply pull up, roll down a window, and — if able —

offer a gift in front of the WLEN studios, 242 W. Maumee St.

Since its beginning, Thank a Vet Day has raised more than $500,000 for veterans in Lenawee County. These funds go directly to helping with everyday essentials like mortgage payments, rent, utilities, or even something as simple as a pair of boots to help a veteran start a new job. In last

year’s drive alone, the community raised over $58,000 for local veterans in need.

TLC Community Credit Union is joining WLEN and its sister stations in sponsoring the drive. The Veterans Dire Needs Fund is a program of Housing Help of Lenawee that provides emergency assistance to veterans in Lenawee County who are facing financial hardship.

Veterans Day observances in Lenawee County

ADRIAN — A ceremony to mark the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — the exact anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I — will take place at Monument Park in Adrian on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.

Adrian’s Veterans Day parade will begin at 3:30 p.m. Lineup starts at 3 p.m. in front of the Adrian Armory, 230 W. Maumee St. The parade will proceed east on Maumee Street to Monument Park, where it will be followed by a ceremony at about 4 p.m.

Adrian’s Veterans Day activities are

being organized by Amvets Post 1957 this year.

n Tecumseh’s Veterans Day ceremony will take place at 11:11 a.m. at Brookside Cemetery on North Union Street. Following the ceremony, American Legion Post 34 invites veterans and family members to a roast beef dinner at the Legion post, 101 W. Pottawatamie St.

n Durkee-Seager Unit 550 American Legion Auxiliary in Onsted will host a swiss steak dinner on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 5 p.m. The dinner is free for veterans and $15 for all others ($6 for ages 10 and under).

n The staff and students of Prairie Elementary School invite veterans to take part in the annual “Take a Veteran to School” program on Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. Because of the size of the program, it will take place at the Adrian High School performing arts center, 785 Riverside Ave. The program will include a series of patriotic songs sung by Prairie students. Veterans will also be invited to visit Prairie Elementary School classrooms that afternoon. For more information, contact Cindy Marcum at cmarcum@ adrian.k12.mi.us.

Second ‘No Kings’ protest draws hundreds in Adrian

ADRIAN — The theme was similar but the crowd was bigger as local opponents of the Trump administration held a second “No Kings” demonstration at Comstock Park in Adrian on Oct. 18.

A previous demonstration with the same title was held on June 14, but the numbers at the October event were larger. Although people came and went over the course of a few hours and crowd sizes are difficult to estimate, about 900 people could be counted at the park shortly before noon.

Demonstrators lined the roughly 900-foot length of the Maumee Street and Church Street sides of the park. The crowd also spilled onto the sidewalks inside the park and along the Comstock Park riverfront.

Some carried flags; some carried signs with messages against authoritarianism.

A number of signs focused on reports of brutality by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents as part of the administration’s push for mass deportations.

College receives top innovation ranking

ADRIAN — U.S. News & World Report magazine has named Adrian College the No. 1 Most Innovative Regional College in the Midwest in its 2026 Best Colleges rankings.

The report also listed Adrian College as tied for No. 4 in Undergraduate Teaching, No. 10 in Best Value, tied for No. 30 among Regional Colleges in the Midwest, and tied for No. 39 in First-Year Experiences.

In other campus news, Adrian College recently announced the launch of three new Master of Business Administration specializations designed to address critical skills gaps in artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity. The new MBA tracks are in AI Driven Management, Business Analytics and Cybersecurity Management.

Several people wore inflatable costumes, a trend started by demonstrators in Portland who began dressing up in inflatable outfits to mock the Trump administration’s claims that Portland was a “war zone.”

Adrian’s demonstration was one of about 2,600 planned for across the country on Oct. 18, including nearby ones in Tecumseh and Monroe.

People line West Maumee Street in Adrian during a protest against the Trump administration on Oct. 18. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Local residents honored by Hispanic/Latino Commission

LANSING — Four Lenawee County residents were among 50 Latino Legacy Leaders who were honored on Oct. 16 when the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan celebrated its 50th anniversary.

The purpose of the commission is to advise the governor and legislature about topics affecting Hispanic and Latino residents of Michigan, with the goal of achieving an environment of social justice and economic equality. Adrian resident Rudy Flores is one of the members of the commission.

Maria Jaimez was honored for her decades of service with the migrant ministry of Holy Family Parish in Adrian. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, she participated in the United Farmworkers of California protests and boycotts led by Cesar Chavez. Over the past five decades, she has provided many social services to migrant seasonal farmworkers in southeast Michigan.

Luis A. Ramos is a pastor, retired social worker, and founder of the fatherhood organization Latinos/ Hispanos Hombres de Honor y Valor Inc. (Latino/Hispanic Men of Honor and Valor). He founded the group in 2014 because although there were organizations providing services to Spanish-speaking fathers on the West Coast, there were none in the Midwest. The group offers workshops for fathers on topics like positive discipline,

COUNTY NEWS

Actions taken by the Lenawee County Commission in October included:

n Appointing Russell Amo and Amy Young to three-year terms on the Lenawee Public Transportation Authority board.

n Authorizing the county administrator to execute a 2026 Juvenile Justice Infrastructure Grant in relation to the second phase of the Maurice Spear Campus project, renovating infrastructure in the existing detention area.

n Approving a nine-month agreement with Lakeshore Recycling Systems for a recycling expansion pilot program. This program will be funded with a Materials Management Planning grant from the state and will include twice-weekly pickups for comingled materials at three sites in the county (currently planned for Hudson, Britton, and Onsted).

n Approving a bid from Adrian Mechanical Services to replace the chiller in the Human Services Building.

effective family communication, budgeting, career planning, and setting life goals.

Pete Vargas is the organizing director for MiPoder, a group that works to amplify the power and leadership of Latino communities in Michigan. He is a longtime community advocate,

n Approving multiple vendor bids for the renovation of meeting rooms in the Human Services Building. The project will include a partial wall removal, installation of a door, audiovisual equipment, painting, electrical, ceiling tiles, and removal and replacement of room divider panels.

n Accepting an offer from WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging to fund the purchase of a wheelchair accessible van for the Department on Aging. This van will be used to transport older adults to medical appointments and other extended services.

n Approving a bid from Adrian Coatings to paint the Social Security suite in the Human Services Building.

n Approving a bid from Insignia Graphics for signage on the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office building to honor the late Richard L. Germond. An unveiling and dedication ceremony is planned for spring.

n Approving the upfitting of a patrol vehicle for secondary road patrol, utilizing grant funding.

political strategist, and mentor to young people. He has also worked as a union organizer for United Steel Workers and campaigned to improve wages for restaurant workers.

Rocio Vazquez has served as the office and outreach coordinator for Holy Family Parish since 2007. She volunteers with the Hispanic ministry at Holy Family Parish, offering translation and interpretation services to help families feel understood and supported. Her work involves assisting migrant families and immigrants, connecting them with resources and easing their transition into the community.

n Approving the purchase of emergency responder and internal operating radio boosters, as part of the Maurice Spear Campus renovation and expansion project.

n Honoring Lenawee County printing and purchasing director Kim Cramer for her nearly 43 years of service, wishing her well in her retirement.

n Proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Lenawee County.

n Declaring November as a time

to honor veterans and encouraging residents to display green lights from Nov. 4-11 as part of Operation Green Light, showing visible appreciation for their service.

n Receiving the 2025 drain assessment report from Lenawee County Drain Commissioner Ed Scheffler and placing it on file.

n Appointing Chari Cure as a Republican representative to the Lenawee County Board of Canvassers for a four-year term.

Pete Vargas, Rochelle Flores, Rudy Flores, Rocio Vazquez, Maria Jaimez, Father Michael Newman, and Luis A. Ramos are pictured at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan on Oct. 16.

Lenco names next president and CEO

ADRIAN — Lenco Credit Union has announced the appointment of Fran Brant as its next president and chief executive officer. She will succeed Ben Neal, who will retire after 41 years with the Adrian-based credit union.

Brant will assume the role of CEO on May 1, 2026, at which time Neal will transition to working with the credit union as a consultant, according to a news release.

Brant joined Lenco in March 2024 as vice president of consumer lending, following more than three decades of leadership experience in mortgage and consumer lending.

She is a graduate of Addison schools and a lifelong Lenawee County resident.

She earned a business degree from Eastern Michigan University, raised her children in Madison schools, and has served with numerous organizations including Lenawee County Association of Realtors, Catherine Cobb shelter, Zonta of Lenawee, Habitat for Humanity, the Boys and Girls Club, and Catholic Charities.

“It has been an honor to serve the members of Lenco Credit Union for the past four decades,” Neal said. “From my first day in 1985 to today, our mission has always been clear — serve our members and support Lenawee County. Fran is not only experienced, but she lives and breathes this community. I cannot imagine a better person to lead Lenco into the future.”

“Our board is excited to welcome Fran as our next CEO,” said Lenco Credit Union board chair Sam Ewing. “Her leadership, her ties to Lenawee County, and her unwavering dedication to community service represent exactly what Lenco stands for. We are confident she will continue to strengthen the bond between Lenco and the members we serve.”

Brant stated, “I am humbled and honored to serve as Lenco’s next President and CEO. Lenco is more than a credit union — it’s a family of members, employees, and neighbors working together to build a stronger Lenawee County. My commitment is to honor our roots while ensuring that our members have access to the very best in community banking.”

Founded in 1970, Lenco Credit Union originally was started to serve area teachers, and now has nearly 8,000 members across Lenawee County. It celebrated its 55th anniversary earlier this year.

Local woodworking institute gets $12 million boost from state budget

Rep.

Nancy Jenkins-Arno secures budget earmark for school’s future expansion

The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Michigan’s state budget for the 2026 fiscal year includes some good news for the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute.

The budget includes $12 million earmarked for a new facility for the woodworking institute, which was founded in 2015. SBWI has also been fundraising for its planned expansion project, and now has $16.5 million committed for the effort.

The funding was secured by state Rep. Nancy Jenkins-Arno (R-Clayton).

“This is a huge win not just for Lenawee County, but for the entire state of Michigan,” Jenkins-Arno said in a news release. “The Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is a gem in our community, and this investment will ensure it becomes a national hub for skilled trades education. These are high-demand, high-skill jobs that attract families, create economic opportunities, and have a lasting impact on our region.”

Jenkins-Arno said the funding is part of Michigan leaders’ efforts to prioritize skilled trades and technical education as drivers of economic development.

The funding will help preserve fine craftsmanship while also building a

future workforce equipped to meet modern demands, she said.

The institute already offers a yearlong program in furniture making. Luke Barnett, founder and president of SBWI, said plans for the new building include launching two new yearlong programs, one in historic preservation and one in timber framing. SBWI is also working with Adrian College to build degree pathways around all of its programs.

“We’re incredibly proud to bring this level of innovation and relevance to our region,” Barnett said.

In addition to professional programs, the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute also offers classes to the general public. More information is available online at sbwi.edu.

This artist’s rendering shows the interior of the shop design for the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institude’s proposed new campus. COURTESY OF SBWI

Fran Brant

Ben Neal

NEWS FROM AROUND LENAWEE COUNTY

ADRIAN INN DEMOLISHED: Adrian College completed demolition of the former Adrian Inn at 1575 W. Maumee St. in October. The college purchased the property from the city of Adrian for $250,000 earlier this year, with the intention of using it for student housing. The city had purchased the hotel for $800,000 in 2022 as a short-term measure to help people who were displaced by the emergency evacuation of the Riverview Terrace apartment building. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

CRIMSON HOLDINGS MONEY DISCUSSED: At the Oct. 20 Adrian City Commission meeting, commissioner Bob Behnke said he would like to revive discussions about the best way to use a $100,000 settlement from Crimson Holdings, the bankrupt former owner of the powdered egg processing plant on East Maumee Street, that a judge ordered the company to pay the city for the benefit of residents affected by repeated foul odors coming from the plant. Delivery of the full $100,000 was delayed due to the company’s bankruptcy, but the city does now expect to receive the full amount. — LENAWEE VOICE

COMMISSIONER CONVERSATIONS: City commissioner Bob Behnke is planning to hold a Commissioner Conversations event on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 6-7 p.m. at the Adrian District Library downtown. Residents are welcome to come and ask questions or share concerns. — LENAWEE VOICE

VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR HOSTS COFFEE HOURS: Blissfield village administrator Danielle Gross is hosting a monthly community coffee hour for any residents who would like to ask questions or share ideas. The coffee hour is on the third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m. at Starling Lounge, 133 S. Lane St.

INCIDENT INVOLVING BLISSFIELD POLICE CHIEF BEING INVESTIGATED: Authorities in Monroe County are investigating an Oct. 6 incident in which Blissfield police chief Dale Greenleaf allegedly fired his gun at two dogs while walking in a Bedford Township neighborhood, killing one and seriously wounding another. Monroe County sheriff’s deputies said Greenleaf told them he was attacked by the Boston terriers. Deputies said they found abrasions on his leg and stomach, but no puncture wounds. The case was turned over to the Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office for review. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO

MOTORCYCLIST DIES AFTER CRASH: A 71-year-old Tecumseh man died after his motorcycle collided with a delivery van on the afternoon of Oct. 14. Sheriff’s deputues reported that the motorcyclist was traveling south on Tecumseh-Clinton Highway and the delivery van was crossing the highway from Pennington Road going into the subdivision on the west side of Tecumseh-Clinton Highway. The Tecumseh man was taken to the University of Michigan hospital, where he died from his injuries. The driver of the van, a 26-year-old man from Oregon, Ohio, was uninjured. — LENAWEE VOICE

WOMAN DIES AFTER CRASHING INTO TREE: A 38-year-old Adrian woman died at ProMedica Toledo Hospital after a singlevehicle crash on Lyons Highway just north of Mulberry Road on Oct. 3. Sheriff’s deputies said the woman was driving north on Lyons Highway when her Jeep Cherokee went off the road into the ditch, struck a culvert, went airborne, and came to rest after striking a tree. The driver, who did not appear to have been wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle. — LENAWEE VOICE

MARKET HOUSE IS UP FOR SALE: Longtime fixtures of the Hudson and Hillsdale communities are up for sale as owner Brett Boyd announced this week on social media that after 85 years, the Market House grocery stores in both communities have been put on the market. Boyd said the decision was a hard one, but that he and his wife are looking forward to enjoying years in retirement, something he said his father never had the opportunity to do. He said he will require that any prospective buyer commit to continuing the tradition of giving back to communities, paying employees well, and moving the business forward. The properties in each community include not only the Market House supermarkets, but also a number of other stores within or adjacent to the grocery location. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO

AIRCRAFT MAKES EMERGENCY LANDING IN FIELD: A single-engine aircraft landed in a field just south of U.S. 223 in Palmyra Township after experiencing mechanical issues on the morning of Oct. 24, according to the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office. The plane had been flying from Indiana to Toledo. The aircraft was undamaged and the pilot, a 51-year-old Toledo man, was unharmed. — LENAWEE VOICE

DRIVER KILLED IN WRONG-LANE CRASH: A 45-year-old Blissfield man died when his Tesla Model 3 collided with a semitrailer on Oct. 1. Sheriff’s deputies said the man was driving west on U.S. 223 near Rodesiler Highway when he began driving in the eastbound lane instead, and appears to have made no attempt to avoid the oncoming semitrailer. The vehicles collided head-on, causing the Tesla to be pushed under the truck, and both vehicles caught fire. The truck driver was able to get out of his vehicle, but the driver of the Tesla died in his car. — LENAWEE VOICE

TEENS INJURED IN MOPED CRASH: Two 17-year-olds, one from Jackson and one from Hudson, were injured on Oct. 24 when the moped they were riding was struck from behind by a car, throwing them from the moped. The crash occurred on U.S. 127 near Manitou Road. According to the sheriff’s office, the driver of the car did not stop, and was caught by deputies several miles away. The driver, a 40-year-old Adrian man, was arrested on a charge of operating while intoxicated. — LENAWEE VOICE

POLICE CHIEF NAMED: Jeff Wright has been hired as Tecumseh’s police chief. He previously served as first sergeant and was elevated to interim chief when Brett Coker was named city manager. His permanent appointment as chief was approved unanimously by the city council. — LOCAL BUZZ RADIO

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS FUNDRAISER: The League of Women Voters will host a fundraiser with a holiday theme on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St. — LENAWEE VOICE

ADRIAN

BLISSFIELD

CLINTON

FAIRFIELD TWP.

HUDSON

PALMYRA

RIGA TWP.

ROME TWP.

TECUMSEH

NOTICIAS LOCALES

La NAACP honra el servicio comunitario

ADRIAN — El Capítulo Lenawee de la NAACP reconoció a dos personas y una organización por su servicio a la comunidad en su cena anual el 19 de octubre.

Estervell “Russ” Russaw Jr. fué reconocido por su labor como líder sindical y por su trabajo voluntario desde su jubilación. Durante su carrera, fue negociador para Trabajadores de Automóvil Unidos (United Auto Workers). Representó a los empleados de la empresa proveedora de autopartes Delphi, trabajando para proteger sus pensiones cuando la empresa se encontraba en bancarrota.

El Club de Niños y Niñas de Lenawee (Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee) fue reconocido por su impacto en la juventud de la comunidad.

Cada año, el club ofrece a más de 800 jóvenes programas extraescolares que incluyen mentoría, ayuda con las tareas escolares, actividades recreativas y comidas nutritivas.

Vince Emrick, jefe de policía de Adrian, recibió el Premio al Oficial de Policía del Año en Memoria de Larry Richardson por su compromiso de servir a todos los residentes de Adrian por igual.

El Juez Joe Costello, quien presentó a Emrick, habló sobre cómo Emrick ha trabajado para ayudar a los residentes de Adrian a lidiar con el clima de miedo generado por los agentes federales de inmigración.

— Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

CALENDARIO DEL CENTRO EBEID PARA NOVIEMBRE

ADRIAN — Los siguientes programas educativos y reuniones comunitarias se llevarán a cabo en noviembre 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. Salud en el Corazón de Adrian (por ProMedica y mas de 20 socios) — el sabado, 1 de noviembre, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2, 9, 16, 23 y 30 de octobre, 4 p.m. Disfrute de acceso gratuito a exámenes de detección de diabetes y accidentes cerebrovasculares; información nutricional y comida para llevar; vacunas contra la gripe; pruebas de audición; consejos para la prevención de caídas; exámenes de detección de ITS/ETS, pruebas de embarazo y control de la natalidad; terapia de masaje; cortes de pelo y más.

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.

Cuatro residentes locales honrados por la Comisión Hispana/Latina de Michigan

LANSING — Cuatro residentes locales estuvieron entre los 50 líderes del legado latino que fueron homenajeados el 16 de octubre cuando la Comisión Hispana/Latina de Michigan celebró su 50° aniversario. El propósito de la comisión es asesorar al gobernador y a la legislatura sobre temas que afectan a los residentes hispanos y latinos de Michigan, con el objetivo de lograr un entorno de justicia social e igualdad económica. Rudy Flores, residente de Adrian, es uno de los miembros de la comisión.

María Jaimez fue homenajeada por sus décadas de servicio en el ministerio migrante de la Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia (Holy Family Parish) en Adrian. A finales de los años 60 y principios de los 70, participó en las protestas y boicots de los Trabajadores Agrícolas Unidos de California, liderados por César Chávez.

Especialidad de Yoga para Personas Mayores (por YMCA) — el martes, 4, 11, 18 y 25 de noviembre, 4 p.m. Esta serie gratuita de siete semanas apropiada para todos los niveles de habilidad está de vuelta por demanda popular. Se presentarán risas, manos y pies, ansiedad, cara y cuello, yoga restaurativo y de pared, por nombrar solo algunos. Ventana Emergente del Banco de Pañales (por Lenawee Great Start) — el miércoles, 5 de noviembre, 5-7 p.m. ¿Necesitas pañales? Pase a recoger pañales, crema para pañales y toallitas húmedas para una semana. Yoga para Todos (por YMCA) — el jueves, 6, 13 y 20 de noviembre, 4 p.m. Únete a otros en esta clase de yoga de bajo impacto que promueve la fuerza, la resistencia y la estabilidad al tiempo que mejora la flexibilidad a través de posturas de yoga fluidas. Esta clase es apropiada para todos los niveles de habilidad. Ahorros y Banca (por Community Action Agency) — el jueves, 6 de noviembre, 5:30-7 p.m. Esta clase es parte de nuestra Serie de Empoderamiento Financiero y se centrará en la importancia de ahorrar y pagarse a sí mismo primero. La clase también se centra en la terminología bancaria y las prácticas seguras de los cajeros automáticos.

Durante las últimas cinco décadas, ha brindado numerosos servicios sociales a los trabajadores agrícolas migrantes temporales en el sureste de Michigan.

Luis A. Ramos es pastor, trabajador social jubilado y fundador de la Organización de Paternidad Latinos/ Hispanos Hombres de Honor y Valor Inc. (Latino/Hispanic Men of Honor and Valor) Fundó el grupo en el 2014 porque, si bien existían organizaciones que brindaban servicios a padres hispanohablantes en la Costa Oeste, no existían en el Medio Oeste. El grupo ofrece talleres para padres sobre temas como disciplina positiva, comunicación familiar eficaz, presupuestos, planificación profesional y establecimiento de metas de vida.

Pete Vargas es el director de organización de MiPoder, un grupo que trabaja para amplificar el poder y

Reunión de la Coalición Comunitaria (Coalición de East Adrian) — el lunes, 10 de noviembre, 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. Únete a la construcción de una mejor comunidad para todos.

Mover el Jardín al Interior (por Lenawee Conservation District) — el jueves, 13 de noviembre, 6-7 p.m. Traiga un poco de verde a su hogar moviendo el jardín adentro con plantas de interior. Todos son bienvenidos a unirse y aprender a cuidar las plantas de interior y alegrar su espacio interior. No te pierdas esta forma fácil y divertida de conectarte con la naturaleza sin costo.

Alquiler para el Exito (por Community Action Agency) — el jueves, 13 de noviembre, 6-7 p.m. Aprenda sobre las leyes de vivienda justa, contratos de arrendamiento, derechos de los inquilinos, mantenimiento, reparaciones y más. Los

el liderazgo de las comunidades latinas en Michigan. Él es un veterano defensor comunitario, estratega político y mentor de jóvenes. También ha trabajado como organizador sindical para Trabajadores de Acero Unidos (United Steel Workers) y ha hecho campaña para mejorar los salarios de los trabajadores de restaurantes.

Rocío Vazquez ha sido coordinadora de oficina y difusión comunitaria de la Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia desde el 2007. Trabaja como voluntaria en el ministerio hispano de la Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia, ofreciendo servicios de traducción e interpretación para ayudar a las familias a sentirse comprendidas y apoyadas. Su trabajo implica ayudar a familias migrantes e inmigrantes, conectándolas con recursos y facilitando su integración a la comunidad. — Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

participantes que completen este curso y una sesión privada de asesoramiento presupuestario con CAA reciben un estipendio de $50. Entrenamiento de Narcan 101 (por Community Mental Health) — el jueves, 20 de noviembre, 4 p.m. Únase a otros para esta capacitación de Narcan que enseña cómo reconocer una sobredosis de opioides, comprender cómo funciona Narcan para revertirla y cómo administrar el medicamento de manera segura.

Duelo y pérdida (inglés y español) — el jueves, 20 de noviembre, 5:30 p.m. en inglés, 6:30 p.m. en español. Está invitado a una sesión educativa gratuita sobre el duelo y la pérdida, presentada por Hospice of Lenawee. Únase a nosotros para aprender sobre estrategias de afrontamiento, encontrar apoyo y conectarse con otras personas que atraviesan experiencias similares. Este evento de bienvenida está abierto a todos en la comunidad.

Padres de Lenawee (facilitado por De’Angelo Boone) — el martes, 25 de noviembre, 4 p.m. Todos los padres del condado de Lenawee están cordialmente invitados a ser parte de esta iniciativa de apoyo al padre.

Pete Vargas, Rochelle Flores, Rudy Flores, Rocio Vazquez, María Jaimez, el padre Michael Newman y Luis A. Ramos aparecen en la celebración del 50° aniversario de la Comisión Hispana/Latina de Michigan el 16 de octubre.

Recuerda votar el 4 de noviembre

ADRIAN — Las elecciones municipales en Adrian serán el martes 4 de noviembre. Las urnas estarán abiertas de 7 a.m. a 8 p.m. en el recinto ferial del Condado de Lenawee (Lenawee County Fairgrounds), 602 N. Dean St.

La alcaldesa Angela Sword Heath no tiene oposición para la reelección. Seis candidatos se postulan para tres puestos en la comisión de la ciudad: Aaron Chesher, Gordon Gauss, Doug

Miller, Chip Moore, Tiffany Sieler-Zych y James Trull.

Un referéndum para derogar la ordenanza municipal de inspección de puntos de venta está en la boleta electoral. Esta ordenanza exige inspecciones exteriores de las propiedades residenciales antes de que puedan ser vendidas. Si una vivienda no pasa la inspección, los vendedores deben solucionar los problemas que fueron detectados durante la inspección o reservar fondos para que el

comprador los solucione. Un “Sí” significa derogar la ordenanza.

Una renovación por 30 años de un acuerdo para que Citizens Gas Fuel Co. proporcione gas natural en la ciudad también está en la boleta.

Para leer las historias electorales que se publicaron en la edición de octubre de Lenawee Voice, visite lenaweevoice.com/ elections.

— Traducido por Lizbeth Perez-Cazares

Lo que las personas mayores necesitan saber sobre Medicare y Medigap

Por Ben Negroe

Traducido por Lizbeth Pérez-Cázares

Con la llegada del otoño, llega un momento crucial para las personas mayores del Condado de Lenawee: el Período Anual de Inscripción de Medicare, que se lleva a cabo del 15 de octubre al 7 de diciembre.

Este período anual es cuando los beneficiarios actuales de Medicare pueden revisar, comparar y tomar decisiones importantes sobre su cobertura médica para el próximo año. Estas decisiones pueden afectar tanto su salud como sus finanzas.

Tome decisiones informadas que duren todo el año

Elegir un plan o suplemento de Medicare, como una póliza Medigap, no es una decisión universal. Es fundamental investigar. Pregúntese:

n ¿Debería considerar un plan de medicamentos recetados independiente (Parte D)?

n ¿Me resultaría más útil un plan más completo como Medicare Advantage (Parte C)?

n ¿Necesito cobertura adicional para ayudar a pagar los costos de bolsillo que no cubre Medicare?

Éstas son preguntas importantes y las respuestas varían según sus necesidades personales de atención médica, sus recetas y su situación financiera.

Obtenga ayuda de expertos locales de confianza

Para muchos, Medicare puede parecer una sopa de letras de partes y políticas confusas. Por eso es tan importante buscar ayuda experimentada y confiable. En nuestra comunidad, profesionales como Bill Millner tienen años de experiencia ayudando a personas a navegar por el complejo mundo de Medicare y Medigap. HOLA (Alianza de Hispanos de Lenawee) recomienda buscar la orientación de asesores certificados y de buena reputación con una trayectoria ayudando a personas mayores a ahorrar dinero y obtener la cobertura que necesitan.

No dejes que el idioma sea una barrera

Para las personas mayores hispanohablantes, comprender las opciones de Medicare puede ser aún más difícil; ahí es donde entra HOLA. Si usted o alguien que conoce necesita ayuda para traducir o comprender la información durante una consulta de Medicare, estamos aquí para ayudarle. Nuestro equipo ofrece servicios de traducción y puede acompañar a los clientes a sus citas para garantizar que no se pierda nada en la traducción.

Fechas límite de inscripción clave

Hay dos tipos de períodos de inscripción a tener en cuenta:

n El período de inscripción anual (AEP): del 15 de octubre al 7 de diciembre. Durante este período, cualquier persona que ya esté inscrita en Medicare puede cambiar entre Medicare Original y Medicare Advantage; unirse, cancelar o cambiar de plan de medicamentos de Medicare; o cambiar las pólizas de Medigap (si corresponde).

n El período de inscripción inicial (IEP) — Para quienes cumplen 65 años. Tiene un período de siete meses: tres meses antes de su 65.° cumpleaños, el mes de su cumpleaños y tres meses después. Inscribirse durante los tres meses anteriores a su cumpleaños garantiza que la cobertura comience el mes en que cumpla 65 años. Si se inscribe más tarde, su cobertura comenzará el mes después de registrarse.

Recursos confiables para empezar Siempre es recomendable verificar lo que le dicen, incluso lo que le dicen los profesionales. Aquí tiene algunos recursos confiables para ayudarle a comprender sus opciones:

n El sitio web de Medicare — medicare.gov.

n Programas Estatales de Asistencia sobre Seguros de Salud (SHIP), que ofrecen asesoramiento gratuito de expertos certificados en Medicare — www.shiphelp.org.

n HOLA para asistencia y defensa bilingües — holalenawee.com.

Meijer se asocia con una despensa de alimentos para ayudar a alimentar a la comunidad

ADRIAN — Desde ahora y hasta el 27 de diciembre, los compradores en Meijer en Adrian pueden ayudar a combatir el hambre comprando tarjetas “Simplemente dar” (Simply Give) de $10 en la caja registradora. Meijer igualará cada compra y las ganancias beneficiarán a la despensa de alimentos de San Vincente de Pablo (St. Vicente de Paúl) en el campus de San José (St Joseph) de la Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia en Adrian (Holy Family Parish). El 13 de diciembre, Meijer igualará cada contribución al doble, lo que significa que por cada tarjeta comprada de “ Simplemente dar” de $10, Meijer contribuirá con $20.

La despensa de alimentos de San Vicente de Pablol está viendo un aumento en el número de residentes de Adrian que necesitan asistencia alimentaria.

— Traducido por Lizbeth

Adrian plans third annual Community Academy

ADRIAN — The city of Adrian is planning the third year of the Adrian Community Academy.

The Community Academy will consist of a 10-week course on Thursday evenings from Jan. 8 to March 12, 2026.

Each session will take place from 6 to 7:30 pm. The sessions will primarily take place at the Adrian City Chambers Building,159 E. Maumee St., but some sessions will meet at other city facilities such as the fire department, water and wastewater treatment plant, and parks department.

Each session will feature a different department of the city, with presentations by department heads and staff members about how each department operates, how decisions are made, and how funds are allocated.

The idea for the academy came from city commissioner Mary Roberts, who talked with the Michigan Municipal League and leaders in several other cities that have similar programs. The academy is free of charge, and space is limited to 25 city residents. Applications are being accepted now on the city website, and the deadline is Dec. 12.

For more information, email Roberts at mroberts@adrianmi.gov.

Election Day is November 4

The following areas in Lenawee County have elections on Nov. 4.

City of Adrian: Mayor Angela Sword Heath is unopposed for reelection.

Six candidates are running for three city commission seats: Aaron Chesher, Gordon Gauss, Doug Miller, Chip Moore, Tiffany Sieler-Zych, and James Trull.

A referendum on repealing the city’s point-of-sale inspection ordinance is on the ballot. A “yes” vote is to repeal the ordinance.

A 30-year renewal of an agreement for Citizens Gas Fuel Co. to provide natural gas in the city is also on the ballot.

City of Morenci: Mayor Tracy Schell is unopposed for re-election.

Five candidates are running for three city council seats: Kori Christle, Gail Cleghorn, Brad Lonis, Gary Pfund, and Kandi Speiser.

City of Hudson: Daniel Schudel is the only candidate on the ballot for two three-year terms on the council. There are no candidates on the ballot for a partial term.

City of Tecumseh: There are four candidates for three council seats — Gary Naugle, Mark Raine, Vicki Riddle, and Joseph Tuckey.

Madison School District: The district has a renewal of its nonhomestead operating millage on the ballot. The millage does not affect homeowners’ primary residences. The district is also seeking a five-year renewal of its 1.5-mill building and site sinking fund for school facilities.

Perez-Cazares

Los compradores en Meijer en Adrian pueden ayudar a combatir el hambre comprando tarjetas “Simplemente dar” (Simply Give) de $10 en la caja registradora.

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

Searching for tiny clues to local watershed health

By Kadi Franson The Lenawee Voice

TECUMSEH — It’s early October in Tecumseh, and leaves float down Evans Creek. The yellow flowers of wingstem bloom along its banks, attracting a steady stream of bees. In the water, Lydia Lopez and Sean Dennis from the River Raisin Watershed Council are dipping cloth nets in search of tiny aquatic animals called macroinvertebrates. These backboneless animals, such as pollution-intolerant mayfly nymphs, provide essential clues about the condition of local waters.

The watershed council and community volunteers conduct these searches several times a year as a part of ongoing water “check-ups.” I watched as they worked: nudging the submerged leaves and rocks with wading boots to flush out the organisms, dipping nets, peering closely, and using tweezers to place them in a glass beaker for further study. Several crawdads were captured and thrown back. Bits of dirt and debris stuck to the nets and Lydia poked around in them, looking for movement.

We talked while they worked. “A lot of people don’t understand that waterways are like nesting dolls ... right now we’re in Evans Creek, which leads to the River Raisin, which leads to the Western Lake Erie Basin, and then ... the Atlantic,” Lydia told me. As she spoke, I thought of the Skeleton Dance song and “the leg bone’s connected to the knee bone!” bounced through my mind. But she’s right. The River Raisin and its tributaries are the hydrologic lifeblood of our region, and the vitality of those waters and everyone who depends on them is intertwined.

From the creek, Lydia suddenly exclaimed. She had found a leech. Leeches are pollution-tolerant. While their presence alone doesn’t necessarily indicate poor water quality, a high population of leeches in the creek might signal degraded waters.

The creatures that made it into today’s sampling beakers were destined for microscopic scrutiny and sorting back at the office, where they would contribute one small piece of a larger picture of watershed health. But what other metrics are used?

In 2024, a foundation grant led to the release of the first River Raisin Watershed Report Card. This assessment tool compiled information across six different categories: water, economy, ecosystem, human health, infrastructure, and recreation, to determine a “grade” for our local watershed. We got a C. “It is one of the most useful tools in our toolbox,” Lydia said.

Report cards were also issued for neighboring watersheds, providing a valuable comparison. The Huron Watershed scored a slightly higher grade.

One of the factors bringing down our watershed score is E. coli bacteria. “Not having a countywide septic code really impacts us,” Lydia noted. “We sample at 14 locations in this subwatershed, and we have for three years. The highest E. coli site that we have is a drain going between a couple of residential properties. One of the houses got bought recently. There was an inspection done, and they changed their septic tank. Immediately after that, the E. coli levels went down significantly. It’s a small win, but it’s still a win. We’ve got to do that on a statewide level.”

Another major issue is turbidity caused by sediments from unprotected streambanks. “I see the impacts that humans have on the environment pretty

directly,” Lydia said. “We were sampling in Brooklyn, and there was a crew taking down trees along the river. ... Those trees hold the bank in place. They didn’t have a silt fence while doing the work. The water was ankle deep, and you couldn’t see the bottom because of the amount of sediment.”

Nutrient loads from Nitrogen and Phosphorus-containing fertilizers are also a significant source of pollution and have an outsized impact downstream. They flow into Lake Erie and concentrate, leading to toxic algal blooms. When the blooms decay, they deplete the oxygen in the water, forming thousands of square miles of dead zones where fish and other aquatic life cannot survive. The toxins in these blooms have far-reaching

consequences on everything from recreation to the economy.

This scale and type of watershed pollution is relatively new in the 14,000-year-long history of humans living in the area. While earlier residents had to contend with the pathogen risks inherent in drinking untreated water, the 20th century brought periods of unregulated industry, agricultural expansion, and widespread deforestation, which all dramatically intensified water pollution. And although many contaminants will persist for generations beyond our own, there is much that we can do to restore the health of our waters today.

Choosing not to fertilize lawns, especially for residents living near lakes or streams, would prevent excess nutrients from entering the waterways. For those who continue to treat their lawns, planting vegetated buffers can help to block runoff and reduce erosion.

As the watershed in southeast Michigan with the most agriculture, farmers can contribute greatly by adopting best practices. The FarmerLed Watershed Conservation Group is one organization that is already committed to doing this, advocating for precision fertilization, buffer strips, cover crops, reduced tillage, and erosion mitigation to prevent polluted surface flows from draining into Lake Erie. “There are people out there that care and are trying to do the right thing. We want to support them and to learn from them,” said Lydia.

Sean Dennis, executive director of the River Raisin Watershed Council, uses a cloth net to dip macroinvertebrates out of the water. The macroinvertebrates provide clues to the local watershed’s health. PHOTOS BY KADI FRANSON/LENAWEE VOICE

Water stewardship coordinator Lydia Lopez places a tiny aquatic animal into a beaker.

PERSPECTIVES

EDITORIAL

Democracy in action

Municipal elections will take place on Nov. 4 in Lenawee County’s four cities. (Only four Lenawee County communities — Adrian, Hudson, Morenci, and Tecumseh — are incorporated as cities.) In addition to those four cities, residents of the Madison School District will vote on two millage questions.

Local elections are the most fundamental building block of our democracy, and we hope anyone who has an election on their ballot this year will turn out to vote.

Adrian’s city election this year is a mix of representative democracy and direct democracy. Representative democracy refers to choosing the people who we will empower to make decisions on our behalf. Direct democracy refers to situations where we actually make those decisions ourselves. City residents will choose three people to serve on the Adrian City Commission for the next four years, but will also vote directly on two topics: whether to repeal the city’s point-of-sale inspection ordinance for residential real estate sales, and whether to renew Citizens Gas Fuel Co.’s franchise to provide natural gas in the city.

We encourage all residents of Adrian, Hudson, Morenci, Tecumseh, and the Madison School District to study the candidates and issues — and to turn out on Nov. 4. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and you can look up your polling place, as well as view a sample ballot, by going to michigan.gov/vote.

Voting is one of our most important civic obligations. This month, make your voice heard!

Due process rights are universal

There’s been a lot of talk recently about who is entitled to the right to due process under the U.S. Constitution.

There can be only one answer to this question: Everyone.

First and foremost, this comes from a plain reading of the 14th Amendment, which is clear that no state can “deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws” — and any attempt to say that the federal government is exempt from this provision would have some disturbing implications indeed.

But there is also a practical reason why every American should hold fast to the principle that due process rights are for everyone. If there is any group of people to whom the guarantee of due process does not apply, then all the government needs to do to strip you of your rights is to claim that you are a member of that group — and without due process, you would have no way to prove otherwise.

The principle that all people deserve due process and equal protection under the law is one of our most fundamental American values. And trying to carve out exceptions to that principle is a betrayal of American ideals.

Budget includes forward momentum, but gaps still need to be filled

While Michigan lawmakers had been in what felt like a neverending stalemate on their budget negotiations for a large part of this year, the recent passage of the 2026 state budget agreement demonstrates that bipartisanship is still possible in today’s polarizing political climate. With that being said, the Michigan League for Public Policy wishes the agreement had been reached back in June and that it was a budget that truly put the people of Michigan first.

The budget, as a whole, takes some significant positive steps toward meeting the needs of Michigan children, families and seniors. However, more work needs to get done. And Michiganders will still feel undue harm caused by federal cuts to essential programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Reacting to the harmful federal megabill, the budget included the important step of updating state laws to protect Michigan’s ability to fund its share of Medicaid by keeping the state’s provider tax structure in place. Without this, Michigan would have had to either dig into state coffers at the expense of other priorities to maintain existing services, or it would have lost billions of dollars in Medicaid funding, restricting Michiganders’ access to health care, eliminating coverage for important services like doulas or community health workers, and disrupting our state health care system for everyone.

Stronger and more equitable school funding — including an increase in per-pupil spending and increased funding focused on the students who need it most, additional funding for student mental health services, and the continuation of universal free school meals — are all vital to ensuring kids have what they need to learn. We were

pleased to see these things make it into the final budget agreement. An investment in technology to protect Bridge card users from benefit theft was also included, as well as a significant down payment in the expansion of the successful and evidence-based Rx Kids program, which will help more Michigan babies and parents get a stronger start toward health and economic security.

While it’s positive that the Legislature looked at state revenue streams and recognized that the status quo just wasn’t good enough, we are concerned that roads were prioritized at the expense of more meaningful investments in the people of Michigan at a time when they need it most.

Despite the budget agreement including some things that center Michiganders’ needs, more must be done to truly shield them from the harm caused by the federal megabill. The most vulnerable of Michiganders will be hit the hardest by the megabill at a time when they are already struggling to make ends meet. We know from our latest Kids Count in Michigan data that more than 17% of our state’s children are living in poverty, and over 40% of Michigan households are either in poverty or can’t afford the basic cost of living.

And while early childhood is the age group that has the biggest return on investment, Michigan lawmakers largely left them out this year. We were deeply concerned that, overall, the budget

lacked a holistic approach to funding the early childhood service sector and a comprehensive strategy to address the early childhood workforce shortage. Additionally, funding for other services, such as Early On and early literacy programs, was at best held flat or decreased at a time of growing need. What’s worse is that funding for our Great Start Collaboratives, which serve as an important resource to families through connections to services, home visiting programs and parent education, was completely eliminated, breaking a nearly two-decade-long commitment to these support systems that serve thousands of kids each year. As child care and early education programs remain out of reach for many Michigan families due to both the high cost and lack of availability, we need further investment, not stagnating funding.

Budgets are not just spreadsheets, they are moral documents, and the people of Michigan — kids, families and workers — should always be central to them.

The agreement that was finally reached doesn’t completely miss the mark in that regard, but we had hoped to see more people-centered investments to mitigate more of the harm caused by federal funding cuts to programs Michigan families and our local communities rely upon to stay healthy and thriving. In the face of increases in child care costs, rising housing costs and unknown future health care costs, our state lawmakers need to continue to champion policies that will protect Michiganders from what we know are going to be some extremely challenging times ahead.

the

(michiganadvance.com).

Monique Stanton is

president and CEO of the Michigan League for Public Policy. This column was distributed by Michigan Advance

MONIQUE STANTON

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Walberg talks, doesn’t listen

I attended a recent town hall by Congressmen Tim Walberg. He said many of those in attendance would not agree with him. He was right. Almost everyone held different opinions than the congressman. He was adamant in his support of all the policies of the Trump administration. He gave absolutely no credence nor consideration to the opinions of the roughly 60 people in attendance. He simply chose to talk, not to listen.

To a question about how he would allay fears about the rise of authoritarianism in our country, Mr. Walberg answered, “I probably can’t. We will stand up if this administration crosses the line in carrying out the function of protecting its citizens and use appropriate means. Let me ask this question. Where was your concern with the authoritarianism of Biden restricting freedoms of people on our side of the aisle? I don’t see an authoritarian government. If I see it

POLICE REPORTS

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

ADDISON

Sept. 29: Property damage, 100 block of East Main Street.

Oct. 3: Property damage, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

Oct. 4: Assault, 300 block of South Talbot Street.

Oct. 6: Fraud, 400 block of South Comstock Street.

Oct. 17: Disorderly conduct, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

Oct. 20: Internet harassment or threats, 200 block of North Comstock Street.

ADRIAN

Sept. 16: Assault, 600 block of Croswell Street. Property damage, 300 block of East Butler Street. Larceny, 300 block of South Madison Street. Disorderly conduct, 800 block of East Maumee Street. Drug possession, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Assault, 1100 block of College Avenue.

Sept. 17: Assault, 800 block of Mulberry Street. Larceny, 1200 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street.

Sept. 18: Stalking, 1400 block of Village Green Lane. Sexual assault, 200 block of Clinton Street. Assault, 200 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, Center and Erie streets. Larceny from a yard, 800 block of Dennis Street. Assault, 300 block of Cherry Street. Larceny from a vehicle and larceny from a yard, 300 block of Erie Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 300 block of Erie Street. Assault, 300 block of Cherry Street.

Sept. 19: Property damage, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Sexual assault, 100 block of North McVicar Street. Property damage, 400 block of College Avenue. Disorderly conduct, 100 block of Dawes Avenue. Assault, 100 block of Bristol Street.

Sept. 20: Operating while intoxicated, 1300 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 700 block of Lakeshire Trail. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223.

Sept. 21: Assault, 700 block of Leland Court. Assault, 400 block of Erie Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Disorderly conduct, 1100 block of South Main Street.

Sept. 22: Internet harassment or threats, 400 block of West Maumee Street. Fraud, 800 block of Caton Avenue. Fraud, 100 block of East Maumee Street. Assault, 800 block of Caton Avenue. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

Sept. 23: Larceny from a building, 1500

coming, if I see him overstepping that line, I’ll stand up against it.” When repeatedly asked where the line was, he refused to answer the question.

The question was asked “What about cutting of taxes for the wealthy?” Mr. Walberg answered, “There were no billionaire tax cuts. They were continued and made permanent for you and for small businesses that weren’t permanent until we passed the Big Beautiful Bill. If we didn’t pass that bill, you all would have received a 27% tax increase. Pay more if you have that opportunity. Next question.”

What Walberg failed to say was that many in Congress didn’t want to extend the 27% tax cut for the wealthiest, but only extend it for the lower and middle classes.

I asked Mr. Walberg when he would respond to Lenawee Indivisible’s requests for a town hall in Lenawee County. He responded, “You represent a Democratic organization, never gonna happen.” Perhaps Mr. Walberg only cares for those constituents who voted for him?

Mitch Myers, Adrian

block of Village Green Lane. Assault, 600 block of St. Joseph Street. Assault, 300 block of West Hunt Street. Drug possession, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Assault, 800 block of Erie Street. Assault, 500 block of Ormsby Street. Sept. 24: Assault, 300 block of North Winter Street. Property damage, 400 block of West Maumee Street. Assault, 100 block of North McVicar Street. Larceny from a building, 700 block of South Main Street. Fraud, 5400 block of Sand Creek Highway.

Sept. 25: Vehicle theft, 1200 block of South Main Street. Assault, 600 block of West Beecher Street. Fraud, 400 block of North Winter Street.

Sept. 26: Assault, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 100 block of Elm Court. Larceny from a vehicle, 800 block of East Maple Avenue. Larceny from a building, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Property damage and disturbing the peace, 1200 block of Scott Ridge Drive. Property damage, 1200 block of East Siena Heights Drive. Assault, 1300 block of West Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Operating while intoxicated, Maumee and McVicar streets. Assault, 700 block of Erie Street. Sexual assault, 600 block of Elm Street. Sept. 28: Assault, 500 block of Finch Street. Vehicle theft, 300 block of State Street. Assault, 1100 block of South Main Street. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 1100 block of South Main Street. Assault, 200 block of North Broad Street.

Sept. 29: Larceny from a building, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Sexual assault, 1200 block of South Main Street.

Sept. 30: Disorderly conduct, 700 block of Erie Street. Drug possession, 900 block of Bradish Street. Property damage, 800 block of Mulberry Street. Vehicle theft, 1000 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 100 block of West Maumee Street. Drug possession, Main and Albert streets.

Oct. 1: Assault and disorderly conduct, 800 block of North Main Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street. Sexual assault, 100 block of South Madison Street. Retail fraud, 700 block of South Main street. Larceny from a building, 200 block of East Front Street. Assault, 800 block of Missouri River Drive.

Oct. 2: Fraud, 700 block of South Main Street. Drug possession, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Assault, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Assault, 200 block of West Maumee Street. Stalking, 1800 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 3: Assault and disorderly conduct, Evergreen Road and West Maumee. Identity theft, 800 block of East Maple Avenue. Illegal credit card use, 500 block of Toledo Street. Disorderly conduct, 700 block of Riverside Avenue. Property damage, 100 block of East Maumee Street.

Oct. 4: Assault, 800 block of Elm Street. Assault, 600 block of Tabor Street. Assault,

Just another huckster

My brother-in-law just helped his lifelong friend bring in more than 150 acres of soybeans out near Deerfield, much of which will now wait in storage to rot, because the biggest foreign market for the beans just shifted its orders to Brazil. That market would be China, a country of more than a billion people who eat a lot of soy.

Like many rural counties across America, Lenawee broke strong for Trump in 2024, and now this president is using the rural economy as a pawn in a badly-played (and unnecessary) game of Trade War. China was also a major importer of corn and wheat, but the U.S. head of state has decided to try insults, threats, and bullying to prosecute an illconceived “reindustrialization strategy,” including tariffs levied over petty personal grudges.

When Trump’s tariff strategy was announced, American companies began stockpiling, and those stockpiles will soon begin running out. Then the American people will feel tariffs for what they are: inflation fuel in the form

500 block of Rogers Court. Assault, 1300 block of South Main Street. Assault, 600 block of East Beecher Street. Stalking, 100 block of Seeley Street. Property damage, 1200 block of East Siena Heights Drive.

Oct. 5: Property damage, 800 block of West Maumee Street. Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 1300 block of South Winter Street. Assault, 900 block of East Butler Street. Assault, 700 block of Erie Street. Assault and disorderly conduct, 800 block of Erie Street. Operating while intoxicated, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 6: Disorderly conduct, 500 block of Dennis Street. Assault, 200 block of Chestnut Street. Assault, 1100 block of East Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 7: Assault, 600 block of Dennis Street.

Oct. 8: Vehicle theft and property damage, 400 block of Ferguson Avenue. Assault, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue. Wire fraud, 900 block of West Michigan Avenue. Larceny from a yard, 1100 block of South Main Street. Property damage, 400 block of West Maumee Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 100 block of West Beecher Street. Assault, 200 block of Jordan Street.

Oct. 9: Larceny from a building, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Larceny from a vehicle, 1300 block of West Maumee Street. Fraud, 400 block of North Winter Street.

Oct. 10: Larceny from a vehicle, 1300 block of South Winter Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 1200 block of South Winter Street. Disorderly conduct, 600 block of Springbrook Avenue.

Oct. 11: Retail fraud, 4400 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 12: Operating while intoxicated, Broad and Front streets. Larceny from a vehicle (four reports), 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 500 block of Division Street. Property damage, 300 block of Rogers Road. Larceny from a building, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Property damage, 900 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 13: Sexual assault, 500 block of Dennis Street. Assault, 600 block of Oak Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 1200 block of South Main Street. Property damage, 1300 block of North Main Street. Larceny from a building, 400 block of East Maple Avenue. Larceny from a vehicle, 1100 block of South Main Street. Burglary (residential, no forced entry), 900 block of Division Street. Larceny, Oakwood Road and Howell Highway. Assault, 600 block of Oak Street.

Oct. 14: Sexual assault, 600 block of South Madison Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway. Assault, 500 block of Toledo Street. Assault, 100 block of Dallas Street. Stalking, 100 block of South Madison Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 15: Larceny from a vehicle, 1500 block of Stratford Drive. Property damage, 100 block

of a consumer tax. Industries using steel, copper, and aluminum are already jacking up prices and implementing hiring freezes. The average American auto price just reached a new record of $50,000. Readers can look up the word “stagflation” to see what’s on the horizon.

You know who’s going to get tens of billions of dollars in aid now? Argentina’s government, headed by a crackpot who ran their economy into a ditch. Trump is even talking about buying Argentine beef — another slap in the face of U.S. agriculture. But why Argentina? Well, it turns out that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant’s hedge-fund pals were about to lose their shirts in the Argentine crash. Turns out Trump wasn’t a man of the people after all — just another billionaire New York huckster. We bought a pig in a poke.

— Stan Goff, Adrian

Letters to the Editor should be 300 words or fewer and may be emailed to letters@lenaweevoice.com. Please include your town of residence and a phone number for verification purposes.

of East Maumee Street. Larceny from a vehicle, 1400 block of Village Green Lane. Disorderly conduct, 500 block of South Center Street. Assault and larceny from a building, 500 block of Division Street. Assault, 500 block of South Winter Street.

Oct. 16: Larceny from a vehicle (two reports), 1400 block of Village Green Lane.

Oct. 17: Retail fraud and larceny from a coin machine, 1300 block of South Main Street. Oct. 18: Assault, 200 block of Jordan Street. Operating while intoxicated, West Maumee at Race Street. Burglary (residential, no forced entry), 1200 block of South Main Street. Retail fraud, 20 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 100 block of Sand Creek Highway.

Oct. 19: Property damage, 1100 block of South Winter Street. Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 1100 block of South Winter Street. Larceny from a building, 4400 block of West Maumee Street. Retail fraud, 1500 block of West Maumee Street.

Oct. 20: Retail fraud, 200 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 1100 block of Frank Street. Telephone harassment or threats, 1100 block of South Main Street.

Oct. 21: Assault, 200 block of East Hunt Street. Illegal credit card use, 400 block of State Street. Assault, 600 block of Lenawee Street. Retail fraud, Gulf Street and Lowe Avenue. Oct. 22: Property damage, 100 block of East Front Street. Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), property damage and larceny from a coin machine, 1300 block of South Main Street. Sexual assault, 100 block of Bristol Street.

ADRIAN TOWNSHIP

Oct 19: Telephone harassment or threats, 2100 block of Curtis Road.

BLISSFIELD

Sept. 23: Property damage, illegal credit card use, and larceny from a vehicle, 8300 block of East U.S. 223.

Sept. 25: Operating while intoxicated, East Adrian Street at Giles Avenue.

Sept. 27: Operating while intoxicated, 600 block of South Brooke Circle.

BLISSFIELD TOWNSHIP

Oct. 5: Operating while intoxicated, 9800 block of Rouget Road.

BRITTON Sept. 30: Assault, 100 block of Cheever Street.

Oct. 5: Drug possession, Chicago Boulevard and Main Street.

CLAYTON Sept. 17: Assault, 10800 block of South Church Street.

DEERFIELD

Oct. 6: Property damage, 500 block of East Keegan Street.

POLICE REPORTS

DOVER TOWNSHIP

Oct. 8: Identity theft, 6000 block of West Beecher Road.

FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP

Oct 19: Assault, 1200 block of Seneca Street.

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP

Sept. 17: Larceny from a building, 5100 block of West U.S. 12.

Sept. 29: Mail fraud, 10200 block of Tipton Highway. Assault, 100 block of The Boulevard.

Oct. 13: Assault, 7900 block of North Adrian Highway. Larceny from a vehicle, 1000 block of West U.S. 12. Property damage, 1000 block of West U.S. 12.

HUDSON TOWNSHIP

Oct. 13: Larceny, 15300 block of Lawrence Road.

MADISON TOWNSHIP

Sept. 18: Assault, 1800 block of Parr Highway.

Sept. 21: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223 (two reports).

Sept. 23: Assault, 300 block of James River Bouelevard.

Sept. 26: Intimidation, 1400 block of East U.S. 233.

Sept. 29: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Sept. 30: Assault, 3000 block of Hillview Drive.

Oct. 2: Assault, 2000 block of East U.S. 223.

Oct. 5: Property damage, 4700 block of Treat Highway. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223.

Oct. 8: Larceny, 100 block of Elkington Street.

Oct. 10: Disorderly conduct, 3400 block of Treat Highway.

Oct. 11: Retail fraud, 1200 block of West U.S. 223.

Oct. 12: Sexual assault, 5700 block of Treat Highway.

Oct. 13: Larceny from a vehicle, 1300 block of East U.S. 223. Larceny from a vehicle, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Fraud, 2600 block of East Carleton Road.

Oct. 14: Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Assault, 2000 block of West Carleton Road.

Oct. 17: Sexual assault, 3400 block of Treat Highway. Vehicle theft, 3100 block of Treat Highway. Assault, 3300 block of Treat Highway. Retail fraud, 1600 block of East U.S. 223. Larceny, 4600 block of Treat Highway. Telephone harassment or threats, 5100 block of Treat Highway. Sexual assault, 5700 block of Treat Highway.

MEDINA TOWNSHIP

Sept. 29: Assault, 16000 block of West Mulberry Road.

Oct. 17: Assault, 8200 block of Munson Highway.

OGDEN TOWNSHIP

Oct. 13: Fraud, 9600 block of Crockett Highway.

Oct. 15: Larceny from a yard, Crockett HIghway and Horton Road.

PALMYRA TOWNSHIP

Sept. 20: Assault, 3000 block of Manor Drive.

Oct. 3: Operating while intoxicated, 4600 block of Ogden Highway.

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

RAISIN TOWNSHIP

Oct. 4: Operating while intoxicated, Holloway Road and Ridge Highway.

Oct. 10: Assault, 100 block of Ridgemont Drive.

Oct. 13: Assault, Sutton Road and Ridge Hwy.

Oct. 22: Operating while intoxicated, Sutton Road and Billmyer Highway.

RIDGEWAY TOWNSHIP

Sept. 27: Operating while intoxicated, M-50 and Palmer Highway.

Oct. 11: Assault, 7900 block of Sutton Road.

ROLLIN TOWNSHIP

Sept. 17: Burglary (non-residential, forced entry), 700 block of Manitou Road.

Sept. 18: Larceny from a yard, 13800 block of Rome Road.

Sept. 30: Wire fraud, 11500 block of Round Lake Drive.

Oct 3: Larceny, 15500 block of Rome Road. Fraud, 10400 block of West Ferndale Drive. Burglary (residential, forced entry), 17600 block of Quaker Road.

Oct. 13: Assault, 6500 block of Weber Road.

Oct. 15: Fraud, 6500 block of North Hallenbeck Highway.

Oct. 21: Property damage, 9700 block of South Devils Lake Highway.

ROME TOWNSHIP

Oct. 4: Assault, 7100 block of Dudley Road.

Oct. 8: Fraud, 5400 block of Onsted Highway.

TECUMSEH

Sept. 18: Assault and internet harassment or threats, 300 block of North Maumee Street.

Sept. 28: Disorderly conduct, Chicago Boulevard and Oneida Street.

Sept. 29: Identity theft, 200 block of West Logan Street.

Oct. 1: Retail fraud, 100 block of South Evans Street.

Oct. 2: Assault, 9100 block of North Union Street.

Oct. 4: Assault, 400 block of Seminole Street.

Oct. 9: Assault, 600 block of Herrick Park Drive.

Oct. 11: Property damage, 1500 block of Wind Dancer Trail.

Oct. 14: Mail fraud, 300 block of East Chicago Boulevard.

Oct. 17: Larceny from a vehicle, 400 block of Herrick Park Drive. Assault, 700 block of Waskin Drive.

Oct. 20: Fraud, 500 block of Ridge Lane. Larceny from a vehicle, 300 block of West Logan Street.

Oct. 22: Larceny of U.S. government property, 300 block of East Chicago Boulevard. Internet harassment or threats, 700 block of Brook Street.

WOODSTOCK TOWNSHIP

Sept. 16: Fraud, 10200 block of Cement City Highway. Disorderly conduct, 14300 block of West U.S. 12.

Sept. 18: Sexual assault, 14300 block of West U.S. 12.

Sept. 22: Larceny from a yard, 18300 block of Lewis Road.

Sept. 25: Illegal credit card use, 7800 block of South Devils Lake Highway.

Sept. 28: Assault and drug possession, 13500 block of West U.S. 12.

Sept. 29: Larceny from a yard, 17500 block of West U.S. 223.

Sept. 30: Illegal credit card use, 15800 block of Winter Road.

Oct. 8: Property damage, 16100 block of Heath Road.

Oct. 20: Operating while intoxicated, U.S. 12 at Miller Highway.

School

from page A1

“That was really the goal, to have it opened to the community and schoolkids,” Luck said.

While the chalkboard is original to the school, the rest of the interior contains donated items representing the sorts of things that might have been in a typical one-room schoolhouse over the years, not items specific to the school itself or to a certain period of its history.

Those items include a lunch pail such as might have been carried by a student, a washbasin, and small slates like the ones students would have used to write their lessons on in the days before notebooks. A piano graces one corner, with a radio atop it of the sort that would have provided such school districts with a weekly music class for many years.

“It’s important to show where we came from, the history of our parents and grandparents and now great-grandparents, and to show the educational process back then.”

—

Although now there are rows of desks to facilitate the visiting school groups, originally the students would have sat on slabs along the room’s perimeter, taking advantage of the natural light coming through the windows, until the teacher called them forth by grade to work on a lesson.

“Everybody had a chore,” Luck said. Boys were usually assigned to bring in wood for the stove, which would have been in the center of the room for optimal heat although now the replica stove is in the room’s back, while girls brought pails of water from a nearby farmhouse because there’s no well at the school.

The trip back to a bygone era that the school provides extends to the two other buildings on the property. One, the shed that would have been used to stable the teacher’s horse, store the teacher’s carriage, and house the supply of firewood, is original to the location.

But the other building, the outhouse behind the school — completed with the “toilet paper” of the era: an old Sears, Roebuck catalog and a can full of corn cobs — actually was moved to the site from a different one-room schoolhouse in the county.

Because children attended schools like this one all together regardless of grade,

“it was a family in these small schools. Everyone knew each other,” Ryan said.

Often, adults who had attended the school even ended up marrying each other, and to this day, many residents of the area either attended the Wooden Stone School or have older relatives who did.

Ryan said that keeping the school and its history alive serves a vital role.

“It’s important to show where we came from, the history of our parents and grandparents and now great-grandparents, and to show the educational process back then,” he said.

“It’s important to teach kids about all that. It was a different time, a different era.”

Watershed

from page A11

Watersheds have unique characters and potentials. Some watersheds are defined by wide-spreading, fast rivers. Our 150-mile long river, named after the wild grapes that grow along its shorelines, is known for being one of the crookedest in the world. I asked Sean and Lydia — if the River Raisin were a person, which words come to mind in describing them?

“Quiet power,” said Sean. “The river is unassuming. It doesn’t get very wide. It’s not like the Maumee that you can fit a bunch of boats in. ... People don’t realize how much of an impact it has on their lives.”

Lydia thought about this and paused for a moment. “Giving,” she said.

The River Raisin Watershed Council hosts regular events and is always looking for volunteers. To get involved in helping to co-steward the watershed through stream surveys and other activities, visit www.riverraisin.org.

Joy Luck, president of the Wooden Old Stone School Association, at left, and her daughters, Erin Wooden Dressel and Heather Wooden Connett. PHOTOS BY ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

The Wooden Old Stone School is located at 11990 Stephenson Road, Onsted.

Ron Ryan, vice president of the Wooden Old Stone School Association

OUR TOWNS

Skytech Sports Bar now open in

Palmyra Township opens its first public park

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

PALMYRA TWP. — Children in Palmyra Township have a new place to play, thanks to the donation of a parcel of property at the intersection of Palmyra and Rouget roads by township resident Keith Knierim that’s now the township’s first park.

The property was once owned by Hugh Driggs and his wife, Lee Ellen, Knierim’s stepfather and mother. The Driggs family founded Palmyra Township’s Driggs Dairy and has long been active in the local community.

Hugh died in 2012 and Lee Ellen in 2020. Later, in 2022, township clerk Christine Whited said, the township received a letter from Knierim offering the parcel to the township with the stipulation that it be turned into a park.

“I’ve mowed this lot since I was 7 years old,” Knierim said as he watched children climb, slide and swing on the new playground equipment on a warm afternoon in mid-October.

After his parents’ death, even though he had numerous offers to sell the lot, to him that was never an option. He knew exactly what he needed to do with the land: give it to the community his family had been a part of ever since one of his forebears bought the first parcel of what would become the Driggs farm holdings back in 1812.

Hugh Driggs had always anticipated a community need for the lot he and Lee Ellen owned at Palmyra and Rouget. “Pops said maybe [the township] would need it for a firehouse or a post office,” Knierim said.

As it turned out, both those needs ended up being met in other spots. The post office was built right across the

street from the property, while the fire station is just a short distance away.

But what the township didn’t have all those years was a park. “I just thought after Mom passed away that this would

be a good use of this property,” Knierim said. “So I got the ball rolling.”

Township Supervisor Dave Pixley said the idea for a park had been considered by the township board to some extent.

“We talked about doing something behind the township building, but we really didn’t have any kind of a plan.”

Morenci’s family-owned bike shop marks 30 years in business

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

MORENCI — Even as a kid, Will Harsh enjoyed fixing bicycles.

“I really liked tinkering with stuff and I really liked bikes,” he said. “I would fix them up and sell them at the family garage sale.”

MORENCI

So the fact that he ended up as the owner of a bike shop is no surprise.

What’s a little more surprising is that he started C&W Cycle between his junior and senior year of high school. And when he opened the store 30 years ago, he had no way of knowing that — as independent bike stores in other communities closed — he would end up one of the only bike retailers for miles around, with customers driving from as far as two hours away to shop at his Morenci store.

He now operates C&W Cycle — a name that originally came from the initials of himself and his brother Chuck — alongside his wife of 23 years,

Amanda, who left her teaching job at Madison schools several years ago to focus on the store. It’s just a two-person operation, but their reputation has spread.

C&W Cycle specializes in BMX equipment — and the couple even operated a BMX track at Wakefield Park for several years — which has helped make them a destination for BMX racers.

“Most shops don’t carry BMX stuff, and if they do, it’s a very limited selection,” Amanda said.

As a result, their regular customers include BMX enthusiasts from as far away as Detroit and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

But although BMX has always been a specialty, they don’t limit themselves to one niche.

“We’re a family shop,” Will said. “We try to have a little bit of something for everybody.”

The Harshes make sure the brands they carry are high-quality so that they’ll last a long time. At mass-market stores, Will said, bikes are “more of a disposable product” that aren’t really meant to last.

“We do have to be a little fussy about what we sell, because we want people to be happy with what they buy,” he said.

But they also want to make sure good bikes are affordable, so in addition to selling new bikes, they fix up older ones — usually people’s trade-ins — and restore them to like-new condition.

C&W CYCLE, page

See TOWNSHIP PARK, page

Palmyra Township clerk Christine Whited (left), Palmyra Township supervisor Dave Pixley (center), and resident Keith Knierim, who donated the land, are pictured on Oct. 17 at the township’s first park. Playing on the swings behind them are Zachary Marcus and Harper Harman. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

C&W Cycle in Morenci, owned and operated by Will and Amanda Harsh, celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

SEEN — AROUND — LENAWEE COUNTY

MORENCI FALL FEST

ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE

Heilner of Morenci works on a pumpkin-painting craft at the Stair District Library’s tent during Morenci’s Fall Fest on Oct. 4. The festival is now in its fourth year.

ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

THIRD THURSDAYS DOWNTOWN

Emma

Mallory Robinson sings during the Lenawee NAACP’s annual Freedom Fund banquet on Oct. 19 at Adrian College, while Deanne Henagan looks on.

VOICE

Randy Finch of Ice Guru Events demonstrates pumpkin carving during downtown Adrian’s Third Thursday event on Oct. 16. The monthly event brings people to downtown Adrian to enjoy live music and a variety of other entertainment. The next event will be on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 20. LINDA CLINE/LENAWEE VOICE

Wildflowers Emporium now open in downtown Adrian

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Wildflowers Emporium, located in the Gallery of Shops in downtown Adrian, opened on Oct. 3 during downtown Adrian’s First Friday event. Mother and daughter Beverly and Kim Swayman moved to Adrian from Arizona two years ago to be near family, and they opened the store as a way to connect with their new home.

ADRIAN

“We wanted to feel like more a part of the community, so we thought that opening a little shop would be a good way to get to know our neighbors and friends,” Kim said.

Kim said her family has owned a small business most of her life. Wildflower Emporium carries merchandise the Swaymans featured in their other stores or items they picked up during travels around the country, such as favorite restaurants and family farms.

“This shop is actually some favorite lines from our previous stores that we’ve had over the last 35 years,” she said.

“We provide a little culinary vacation for you,” Kim added. One example is a cactus rub from the Southwest that has real bits of cactus in it.

The character of the store is “an old-school emporium” with items such as handcrafted items made by the Swaymans themselves, gifts, games, puzzles, pet supplies and a mini baby boutique.

Other merchandise includes kitchen

Budder” treats made from all natural ingredients. Kim chose baby items, such as clothes and toys, because they are “beautiful and unique at the same time.”

Cloth diapers are also available.

Unique lines of products include lithophane porcelain night lights, made by a family business since the Victorian era, and a soy sauce that is made from a recipe that goes back hundreds of

same thing for generations,” Kim said.

“Our family, working together, we have a real sensitivity and appreciation for the heritage and passing on a legacy.”

Wildflowers Emporium also has craft kits, family games and puzzles from independent manufacturers, and a pet “paint-by-number” kit that includes materials needed to paint a portrait of a pet, using a photograph to create the

online with in-store pickup. Shipping is also available.

Wildflowers Emporium is located at 136 E. Maumee St., Suite 8, inside the Gallery of Shops in downtown Adrian. Store hours are Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hours will be extended during downtown events. More information is available

Support Local Businesses this Holiday Season - and all year!

An average of $0.68 of every dollar spent at a small business in the US stays in the local community! This creates a multiplier effect where that initial dollar generates an additional $0.50 in local activity through employee spending and businesses purchasing local goods and services, according to the Small Business Economic Impact Study from American Express.

Kim Swayman, left, and her mother, Beverly Swayman, opened Wildflowers Emporium in downtown Adrian. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Skytech Sports Bar opens in former VFW location

By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — Skytech Sports Bar is now open in Adrian, and owners Sheila and Doug Ruttkofsky wasted no time in making the establishment a part of the Adrian community.

ADRIAN

In fact, they weren’t even officially open yet when they collaborated on their first community event. The Ruttkofskys worked with the Adrian and Tecumseh American Legion posts on Sept. 21 for their Ruck to Remember event, and opened the sports bar to the public on Sept 22.

The Ruttkofskys had been interested in the former VFW building at 726 N. Main St. for several years before finally deciding to buy it in February. They were married in the banquet room inside the sports bar last June.

Both Sheila and Doug have backgrounds in community involvement with veterans, with Doug being a past commander for the Tecumseh American Legion and Sheila serving as Past Auxiliary President. The Skytech Sports Bar still displays military memorabilia such as was featured when the building housed the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

“We’re trying to work together with the community,” Sheila said.

That community involvement includes having the Maria’s Sunnyside Cafe food truck as a regular event in the parking lot and sponsoring a Halloween trunk-or-treat.

Other features are pool leagues, Lotto pull tabs, Keno, and darts.

A banquet room is available for rental for outside events, including weddings. Sheila is an ordained minister, and uses the banquet room as part of her I Do Weddings business. Couples can rent wedding decorations that are available on site, get married by Sheila, and have the reception all within the Skytech building.

The banquet hall can be rented out for other events as well.

The Ruttkofskys have booked bands for entertainment on Thanksgiving Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Skytech Sports Bar is currently serving beverages and packaged snacks, pending approval from the Lenawee County Health Department to prepare food in the kitchen. Once approved, they plan to feature a menu of “basic bar food,” including pizza, wings, chicken tenders, hamburgers and sides.

Sheila said the community has supported Skytech Sports Bar “big time” since its opening, and she is hoping to bring in more community events in the future.

“Everybody comes in and has a good time,” she said.

Skytech Sports Bar is located at 726 N. Main St. in Adrian. More information is available by phone at 517-403-6815, by emailing sheilathompson6815@gmail. com, or on Facebook by searching for Skytech Sports Bar.

Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., with last call at 1 a.m.

Sheila Ruttkofsky is pictured outside Skytech Sports Bar, located at the former VFW Hall on North Main Street in Adrian. JULIE C. CLEMES/LENAWEE VOICE

Wreaths Across America Day to be observed in Blissfield

Annual observance places wreaths on veterans’ graves

BLISSFIELD — The Blissfield chapter of the organization Wreaths Across America will participate again this year in the annual Wreaths Across America Day.

The observance to honor fallen servicemembers will be on Saturday, Dec. 13.

This is the eighth year that the local organization will organize a display.

BLISSFIELD

Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit organization founded in 1992. Morrill Worcester, a wreath maker in Maine, had a surplus of holiday wreaths that year. As a young boy he had won a trip to Washington, D.C. and visited Arlington National Cemetery, and that experience left an indelible impression on him. With the surplus of wreaths in 1992, Worcester and Sen. Olympia Snowe made arrangements to have those wreaths transported to Washington and placed at Arlington.

This annual tribute went on for several years until 2005. That year a photo of the stones at Arlington that were adorned with the wreaths received national attention. From there, Wreaths Across America was born. Today, there are over 4,900 locations — nationally, abroad, and at sea. Over 3 million volunteers place wreaths at veterans’ graves.

In Blissfield, the planning for the annual Wreaths Across America Day

starts early in the year. The Blissfield Township board gives permission to place wreaths at the three township cemeteries — Pleasant View, Spiegel, and Crane. In these three cemeteries, there are just over 570 veterans buried. There are veterans from the Civil War, the Spanish American War, World Wars I and II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam, and the more recent Middle East conflicts.

Funding comes from local organizations, families, and individuals. Every year the goal is to raise enough money to cover each veterans’ grave to remember and honor them. All funds go to purchase the wreaths from the national organization, Wreaths Across America.

The Blissfield location tries to keep a list of all the fallen veterans and where they are buried in the cemetery.

Every year a theme is chosen. This year it is “Keep On Moving Forward,” inspired by the last words of Army Capt. Joshua Byers, who was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq, on July 23, 2003. After an improvised explosive device struck his Humvee and smoke filled the air, Josh gave his driver the command “keep moving forward.” Though he did not make it home, his final command saved lives and became the battle cry for his unit and family.

Fundraising has begun for the 2025 tribute. Each wreath is $17. To purchase, contact Eric Rogers at 517-605-7734 or ericrogers85@gmail.com, or Debbi Rogers at 734-652-0424 or dgrogersmi@ gmail.com.

The deadline to purchase wreaths is Nov. 12.

Horticulture students work to improve museum grounds

ADRIAN — When visitors walk up the steps of the Lenawee County Historical Museum, they are greeted by more than artifacts and archives. The landscape surrounding the building is now part of a living history lesson, thanks to the LISD Tech Center Horticulture Program.

ADRIAN

This ongoing partnership, which began in the fall of 2023, brings together students led by instructor Johanna Lentz and the Lenawee Historical Society to reimagine and revitalize the museum grounds in an example of hands-on learning with community impact.

The project began with conversations. Students met with museum staff and board members to assess landscaping needs, carefully taking notes, snapping photos, and even studying the blueprints of the building to understand the original vision. With that foundation, they began measuring, mapping, and sketching ideas for a refreshed outdoor space.

Two second-year horticulture students, Mason Tuberville and Riley Mosley, brought those ideas to life digitally. Using RealTime Landscape Architect CAD software, they imported photos of the grounds and created a professional-grade landscape plan. By the spring of 2024, students were not only working on computer screens but also on the museum grounds. They completed a spring cleanup of the property and Mason presented his design to museum staff for feedback.

In the fall, students returned for another cleanup and design review. Students Cera LaRatta and Lillian Helinski stepped into leadership roles, refining the plant choices and making small adjustments to ensure the design matched both the building’s architecture and the museum’s needs. At the same time, the project became a true classroom laboratory. Students learned to prepare professional cost estimates by calculating materials, sourcing brands, comparing prices, and compiling a comprehensive budget. Second-year students then presented the final estimate to the museum, giving the historical society the ability to pursue sponsorships and funding to move the project forward.

By spring 2025, the plan was closer to reality. Students double-checked their measurements, confirmed availability

spread rock. The museum grounds were transformed piece by piece, not by contractors but by high school horticulture students building both skills and pride.

For Johanna Lentz, the project is about more than plants. It is about

learning how to work with clients, manage budgets, and see a project through from concept to completion.”

For the museum, the project preserves more than the past. It invests in the future. The updated landscape enhances the visitor experience while

Tecumseh High School senior and LISD Tech Center student Cheyenne Bruner does some detail work while participating in the Tech Center horticulture program’s partnership with the Lenawee County Historical Museum.

Austin Martinez, left, and Johnathan Lawrence, both Adrian High School juniors, work on the LISD Tech Center’s landscaping project at the Lenawee County Historical Museum.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LENAWEE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT

Martel Griswold, a junior at Madison High School and student in the LISD Tech Center Horticulture program, works on landscaping at the Lenawee County Historical Museum.

Kynzie Dull, a Sand Creek senior, shows some of the behind-the-scenes planning work that went into the project.

C&W Cycle

from page B1

“We fully service them and detail them, so you’re not getting somebody else’s problems,” Amanda said.

As a result, Will said, people who can’t necessarily pay for a new high-end bike can still get something that was made to last.

“If they can afford a new cheap bike, they can afford a good used bike instead, and that will treat them better in the long run,” he said.

On purchases of new bicycles, C&W offers free small adjustments for life. This helps bikes last longer because small problems can be caught before they turn into big problems.

“I’ve done that from Day One on the new bikes,” Will said.

“We’re

a family shop. We try to have a little bit of something for everybody.”

When C&W Cycle was started 30 years ago, there were plenty of bike shops around. Adrian had two, and Tecumseh had one. That’s part of the reason why Will, who was going into his senior year at Onsted High School at the time, chose Morenci as a location. In addition to the fact that there was a good building available, there wasn’t already a bike shop in the area.

All of those stores have since closed, leaving the Harshes as the owners of the only new bike store in Lenawee County. (Re-Bicycle Lenawee, a volunteer-run nonprofit in Adrian, deals in repairing and refurbishing used bicycles.)

Despite all the changes in the market, the C&W Cycle store at 702 North St. doesn’t look all that different from the

Township park from page B1

Then Knierim brought his proposal, which also included a stipulation that the township match his donation of $50,000 for playground equipment, to the board, and “we jumped on it,” Pixley said.

A park committee was formed and some fundraising was done, but the majority of the township’s matching funding came from its share of COVID-19 relief money, which could be used for the betterment of the community.

The park committee, made up of Whited, Judy Marcus, Paul Rohlan, Stacey Rohlan, Jim Ruple, Brian Martin, and Kelly Martin, worked with the design firm of Fleis & VandenBrink to create a concept plan for the space.

That concept plan includes a paved parking area, a pavilion, restrooms, a picnic area, winding pathways, and at some point perhaps a trail down to the River Raisin, which runs next to the park. Pixley said the township welcomes buya-bench donations, which would run about $780 per bench.

A limiting factor as far as additional structures is concerned is that a drain runs across the property and nothing can be built over it. That’s one reason why the playground itself ended up being sited where it is.

The playground equipment was installed in September. Pixley said local children were so excited about their new playground that they not only asked repeatedly when the park would open, but on the day the construction tape was

way it looked 30 years ago. There’s a showroom in the front, a showroom in the back, and a repair shop in the middle. On the walls of both showrooms can be seen several whimsical touches, such as a wooden-wheeled cycle from 1897 and a replica of the bike from “ET the Extra-Terrestrial,” complete with a blanket-wrapped ET doll peering over the edge of the basket. In the front window is something you definitely couldn’t ride — an all-wooden bike made out of sticks. That one was originally made for a customer, local tree trimmer Peter Fallot, by one of his clients.

The Harshes also have the bicycle that belonged to Philip Hart, a much-beloved Morenci resident who died in 2021. That bike hangs on one of the walls as a tribute to Hart’s memory.

to be removed from the area, kids were already standing there waiting. As soon as the tape came down, they started playing on the equipment.

Although the new park does not have a name yet, Pixley said the plan is to name it the Hugh and Lee Ellen Driggs Memorial Park.

“Hugh and Lee Ann always cared for this community, and Keith carries that forward,” he said.

Knierim said the park will help keep the Driggs family legacy alive in Palmyra Township.

“My parents had the ultimate respect for this township, and so do I,” he said.

Although things slow down a little in the winter, C&W Cycle is open year round. Beginning April 1, the shop hours are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 6 p.m., Friday from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. From October to March, they close from Tuesday through Thursday but keep the Friday and Saturday hours. Spring is the busiest time of year, as people wanting to hit the road either start looking for new bicycles or pull their bikes out of the garage and realize they need a tuneup. Winter is all about getting ready for spring — although sometimes they will take on

a more in-depth repair project, such as if a customer has a beat-up old bike that needs a lot of work, but holds sentimental value.

As C&W Cycle has become more of a regional destination, they have customers for whom a trip to Michigan’s southernmost city is a bit of a hike. But Will Harsh’s message for people who are thinking about a visit is this:

“Come to Morenci. Come check us out. There’s more than just us here.”

C&W Cycle is at 702 North St., Morenci. For more information, call 517-458-6302 or go to bmxguru.com.

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 education, early childhood, adult learning, transportation, technology, and administrative and support services.

Will and Amanda Harsh are pictureed at C&W Cycle. In the background on the left is one of the whimsical touches that can be seen along the store’s walls, a wooden-wheeled bike from 1897.

— Will Harsh, C&W Cycle

HOPE Center names new executive director

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — When the HOPE Community Center needed a new executive director, it didn’t have to look very far for its choice.

Katie O’Hotzke, who had been serving as the interim executive director since June, was named executive director in mid-October. The longtime staff member first came to the HOPE Center a little more than 10 years ago as a part-time respite worker and later became the program director.

O’Hotzke, a native of New Boston, Mich., first came to Adrian to attend Siena Heights University, where she was a standout softball player both as a pitcher and a hitter and later became an assistant. She earned her degree from SHU in special education.

See HOPE CENTER, page C11

Lenawee County NAACP chapter recognizes community service

“Russ” Russaw Jr. speaks at the Lenawee

presented with a Community Service Award at the dinner.

By Erik Gable The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — A longtime advocate for autoworkers, a local nonprofit, and Adrian’s police chief were honored for their service to the community at the Lenawee NAACP’s annual Freedom Fund banquet on Oct. 19.

Estervell “Russ” Russaw Jr. was presented with a Community Service Award at the dinner, which took place on the campus of Adrian College. He was introduced by Deanne Henagan, a member of the NAACP’s executive committee, who described Russaw’s activism with United Auto Workers Local 2031 after moving from Detroit to Adrian in 1987.

See NAACP, page C11

Estervell

NAACP’s annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Oct. 19 at Adrian College. Russaw was

ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

Sara Herriman listens as Kasey White introduces her to speak about the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee.

Adrian police chief Vince Emrick accepts the Lenawee NAACP’s Police Office of the Year Award while Joe Costello looks on.

Katie O’Hotzke is the new executive director of the HOPE Community Center. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

Realtors group chooses Danielle Stepp for statewide Good Neighbor Award

TECUMSEH — Michigan Realtors, a statewide organization for real estate professionals, has named Danielle Stepp of Foundation Realty in Tecumseh as the recipient of its 2025 Good Neighbor Award.

The award was presented during the organization’s annual convention at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids and recognizes realtors who make extraordinary commitments to improving the quality of life in their communities.

Stepp has been a member of the Lenawee County Association of Realtors for 11 years and previously received LCAR’s own Good Neighbor Award. She currently serves on the LCAR board and held the role of president in 2022.

Her community involvement includes working with Communities Learning Connections of the Tecumseh Area, where she serves on the board of directors, sponsors a winter clothing drive, participates in the Community Walk, and helps organize Friday Food Packs.

She also serves on the Hope Community Center Board and is a past president of Civitan of Lenawee, and is

co-coordinator of the Special Olympics Spring Games. Stepp lives in Tecumseh with her husband, Robert, and their three children.

GARDEN OF THE MONTH

Danielle Stepp is pictured at the annual Michigan Realtors convention in Grand Rapids.

The Adrian Garden Club selected the gardens of Andrew and Christy Winckles on Lincoln Avenue as the club’s September Garden of the Month. They have lived there for eight years and brought many of the plants with them from their last house. Christy has gardened her whole life under the influence of her father, and he learned from his mother. She has a variety of perennials but dahlias are a favorite. She does container gardening around her sundeck in the backyard. Her backyard fences also display some of her artwork.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY HADDAD

Partnership between Lenco Credit Union and Habitat chapter helps support local homeowners

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — A partnership between Lenco Credit Union and Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County has played a pivotal role in helping qualifying county residents make urgently needed repairs to their homes — or be able to become homeowners in the first place.

Through its membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, Lenco participates in several FHLBI programs that give grants to their member institutions to support homeownership in their local communities.

One of these programs, Revive, helps homeowners who meet the income requirements afford certain costly repairs such as new roofs, windows, or HVAC work, or accessibility upgrades that allow people to stay in their homes as they age.

With this program alone, since 2018 Lenco has been able to contribute a total of more than $787,000 to Habitat of Lenawee, assisting 81 homeowners.

“And every one of those 81 people has a story,” said Carrie Hartley, Habitat’s director of development and marketing.

Just this year, Lenco’s funding through Revive came to more than $346,000 and helped 26 local homeowners.

“The numbers are incredibly successful for a community our size,” Hartley said. “The fact we’re doing as much as we are is amazing.”

Lenco has also given significant funding to Habitat of Lenawee through

two other FHLBI programs, Launch and Community Multiplier.

Launch provides down payment assistance to qualified first-time

such as Habitat that work on affordable housing initiatives.

Earlier this year, Lenco was able to turn its own $7,200 grant into an $82,500 donation to Habitat of Lenawee thanks to Community Multiplier.

“Habitat Lenawee has amazing partnerships with many in the community, but our biggest partnership is with Lenco Credit Union,” Habitat of Lenawee Executive Director Wendy Knox said. “It makes me emotional because of the people we’ve been able to help. And it’s grown year after year. … It’s such a great partnership that we have.”

The funding the credit union is able to provide makes a huge difference to many homeowners. “I’m positive we’re helping people stay in their homes,” Lenco Executive Vice President Linda Benschoter said.

And, Benschoter noted, the money has an added benefit to the community: it is spent with local contractors.

All of the money Lenco receives from FHLBI goes straight into the Habitat critical repair program, and because the funds are grants, not loans, the homeowner does not have to pay it back.

homebuyers, while Community Multiplier gives matching grants to member financial institutions so that they, in turn, can support nonprofits

Separately, the credit union also helps people who purchase a Habitat of Lenawee home by providing them with 3 percent fixed-rate 30-year mortgages. These new homeowners have to become Lenco members, which can be done with a deposit as small as $5 into a share

Linda Benschoter, executive vice president of Lenco Credit Union, is pictured with Lenco president and CEO Ben Neal and loan officer Fran Brandt at Habitat’s Farm to Table Dinner fundraiser in August 2024, at which Benschoter was named Habitat’s volunteer of the year. Lenco partners with Habitat in several programs that provide financing to support homeownership in the community. PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

SERVICE CLUB ROUNDUP

Lions Clubs: The Lions Clubs of Lenawee are joining up to host “An Evening with Santa” on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Stubnitz Environmental Education Center in Heritage Park, 3221 N. Adrian Highway, Adrian. The event is free, and features holiday crafts, hayrides, gifts, refreshments, and Santa.

Tecumseh Kiwanis: The Kiwanis Club of Tecumseh recently elected new officers. The officers are Kirsten Stiver as president, Laura Carothers as president-elect, Amy Kennedy as vice president, Dennis Chambo as secretary, and Sandy Lewis as treasurer. The board of directors also includes Stacey Tilton, Jacob Wright, Marvin Crowder, Tim Korwin and Rebecca Lynn.

Morenci Kiwanis: The Morenci Kiwanis Club, in partnership with the city of Morenci and the Morenci Fire Department, will host the annual Holiday Light Parade in downtown Morenci at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. The parade will be followed by a community tree lighting ceremony at Wakefield Park and a visit with Santa at the fire department with cookies and cocoa.

Civitan of Lenawee: Civitan will be selling Butter Braids from now until Nov. 19. The Butter Braids are flaky pastries and are available in a variety of flavors. Each braid serves 11 people and are $18 each. They can be purchased from any Civitan of Lenawee member, or by email at civitanoflenawee@gmail.com.

Civitan of Lenawee is also working

from page C3

account and gives them all the benefits of credit union membership.

The FHLBI funding that Lenco facilitates significantly increases the number of people Habitat of Lenawee is able to assist.

Hartley said that for example, in 2018 when the Revive program began, that first year’s contribution almost doubled the amount of money Habitat had available for its critical repair program, “which we were elated with.”

But the local-donor contributions and the funding the critical repair program gets from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) MI Neighborhood Accessibility Repair Program are important as well, because this helps the program stay funded yearround, not just when the FHLBI money is available.

Residents must meet MSHDA eligibility requirements, including income requirements, in order to receive the repair grants.

Income requirements are calculated based on 80 percent of the Area Median Income as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Currently, that means the homeowner’s monthly gross income cannot exceed $3,883 for a household size of one person, $4,437 for two people, $4,991 for three people, $5,545 for four people, and so forth, on up to $7,320 for an eight-person household.

As for the home itself, requirements include that it be owner-occupied, be the owner’s primary residence, have property insurance, and not be a mobile home.

Adrian Morning Rotary purchases and packs Weekend Snack Sacks for students in first through eighth grade in Adrian Public Schools each month during the school year. On Oct. 14, members of the Adrian school board, the superintendent, his assistant, and a few family members joined members of Adrian Morning Rotary for this monthly effort. The superintendent and board have long been supportive of this effort, most recently by providing the club with a packing and storage location, and participating in packing the snacks gave them another way to connect with the work. In addition to APS students,

Morning Rotary provides snacks to the Madison School District that are packed by their

with the Gallery of Shops in downtown Adrian for their Deck the Halls holiday display. The trees will be set up inside the Gallery of Shops. Those purchasing trees can come in and decorate the trees before the First Friday event on Dec. 5. Trees are $30 each. Checks may be made payable to Civitan of Lenawee. Cash is also accepted, or payments may be made by Venmo to @David-Guldin. For more information, contact Dave Guldin at 517-260-2808 or dguldin47@ frontier.com.

Civitan’s Christmas tree lot, on U.S. 223 near Buffalo Wild Wings, will start

on Friday, Nov. 28, at 10 a.m. There will be a variety of trees and sizes available.

Zonta of Lenawee: The Zonta Club of Lenawee is saying “no” to gender-based violence during the International 16 Days of Activism campaign from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10. Signs will be placed in front of PlaneWave Instruments and the LISD Tech Center on M-52 north of Adrian. A “Glow with Zonta” event is planned for Dec. 10. Event details are forthcoming.

— Compiled by Julie C. Clemes

But other than the fact the homeowner does have to be current on the mortgage and property taxes, “credit is not an issue. Debt to income isn’t an issue,” Benschoter said.

“We always look at how to make it work, not why it won’t work,” Knox added.

Benschoter said that Lenco is proud to be teamed with Habitat of Lenawee to help people in the local community.

“All of us at Lenco are of this community,” she said. “Most of the employees have lived here their whole lives. And we want to give back to our community that’s been so good to us. We’ve been blessed, and we want to bless others.”

For more information on Habitat of Lenawee’s programs, including the repair program, go online to www.habitatlenawee.org or call 517-265-6157.

EBEID CENTER SCHEDULE

The following activities are scheduled for November at the Ebeid Center, 801 E. Maumee St. Health in the Heart of Adrian (with ProMedica and more than 20 community partners) — Saturday, Nov. 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free access to diabetes and stroke screening, nutrition information and food takeaways, flu vaccines, hearing tests, fall prevention tips, STI/STD screenings, pregnancy testing and birth control, massage therapy, haircuts and more.

Coalition Activity Planning (East Adrian Community Coalition) — Monday, Nov. 3, at 5 p.m. Help shape activities that build strong relationships among neighbors, promote a positive community spirit, and provide enriching experiences for all ages.

Specialty Yoga for Seniors (offered by the YMCA) — Tuesdays, Nov. 4, 11, 18 and 25, at 4 p.m. A free series appropriate to all skill levels.

Diaper Bank Pop-Up (sponsored by Lenawee Great Start Collaborative) — Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 5-7 p.m. Do you need diapers? Stop in and pick up a week’s worth of diapers, diaper cream and wipes.

Yoga for All (offered by the YMCA) — Thursdays, Nov. 6, 13 and 20. A low-impact yoga class that promotes strength, stamina and stability while enhancing flexibility. Appropriate for all ages and skill levels.

Savings and Banking (presented by Community Action Agency) — Thursday, Nov. 6, from 5:30-7 p.m. This class is part of a series on financial empowerment Series and will focus on the importance of savings and paying yourself first. The class also focuses on banking terminology, safe ATM practices and other practical tips for savings and banking.

East Adrian Community Coalition meeting — Monday, Nov. 10, at 5 p.m. The coalition meets the second Monday of every month. Let your voice be heard and contribute to the conversation about how residents can impact their community.

Moving the Garden Inside (offered by the Lenawee Conservation District) — Thursday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. Learn how to care for house plants and brighten up your indoor space.

Rent for Success (offered by Community Action Agency) — Thursday, Nov. 13, from 5:30-7 p.m. Learn about fair housing laws, lease agreements, tenants rights, maintenance, repairs, and more. People who complete this course and a private budget counseling session with CAA will receive a $50 stipend. Registration required.

Narcan Training 101 (presented by Community Mental Health) — Thursday, Nov. 20 at 4 p.m. This short, simple training will teach you how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan to reverse its effects.

Grief and Loss (presented by Hospice of Lenawee) — Thursday, Nov. 20, at 5:30 p.m. in English and 6:30 p.m. in Spanish. Learn about coping strategies, find support, and connect with others navigating similar experiences.

Fathers of Lenawee (facilitated by De’Angelo Boone) — Tuesday, Nov. 25, at 4 p.m. All Lenawee County fathers are invited to attend, as are community support agencies.

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

Linda Benschoter of Lenco Credit Union takes part in a Habitat for Humanity Rock the Block event. PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Adrian

staff. PHOTO COURTESY OF ADRIAN MORNING ROTARY

Lenco

Local author bridges education, healing, and community in new book ‘Feel It’

ADRIAN — Local author and educator

Dr. Sonja L. Howell has released her newest book, “Feel It: Wake Up From the Lull, Reclaim Your Power, and Come Back to Life.”

The book is grounded in a local case study conducted in Lenawee County that explored how emotional awareness influences learning, healing, and connection within families and communities.

Howell is the founder of Tranquil

Studio Inc., a nonprofit established in 2015 that works to strengthen families and promote social justice throughout the region. Her Tranquil Parenting program, used for more than a decade in courts, schools, and community agencies, was designed to prevent cruelty to children in high-conflict situations. The program comprises 14 instructional manuals that help parents reduce harm, rebuild trust, and create an emotionally safe home environment.

“Feel It” translates complex emotional and educational concepts into simple, relatable language, guiding readers toward self-awareness, growth, and restoration.

“My goal has always been to help people feel safe enough to heal,” Howell said. “‘Feel It’ takes what we’ve learned from helping families and applies it to the heart of the individual.”

Howell also hopes to connect with other local authors and artists who share her passion for community storytelling. She is exploring ways to bring the Writers on the River event to Adrian, creating a space for regional writers and creatives to gather, share their work, and celebrate local voices. Those interested in collaborating or learning more are invited to contact Tranquil Studio.

More information is available at tranquilstudio.org.

LCF seeks nominations for annual awards

ADRIAN — The Lenawee Community Foundation is seeking nominations for three awards that will be presented at its Annual Celebration next spring.

The awards are: The Lenawee Leadership Award, the Stubnitz Award, and the Incito Award. These honors shine a light on neighbors whose leadership, service, and generosity strengthen Lenawee County.

“Each nomination tells a story of courage, commitment, and community spirit,” Bronna Kahle, president & CEO of the Lenawee Community Foundation, said in a news release. “We’re honored to lift up the people who make health, happiness, and hope real for our neighbors every day.”

The Lenawee Leadership Award honors individuals or couples who exemplify the underlying principle that the future of Lenawee County county will be determined by the quality of its leadership. Selection criteria include residency and volunteer service in Lenawee County, leadership over time, and volunteerism in a variety of ways in the areas of civic projects, culture, health, education, or social services.

The Stubnitz Award recognizes a person demonstrating exemplary commitment to Lenawee County through volunteering with health and human service organizations and assisting with meeting the basic needs of local residents. This award is named

in memory of philanthropist Maurice Stubnitz, who founded Stubnitz-Greene Spring Corporation in Adrian in the 1930s.

The Incito Award honors a young person, age 40 or under, who has emerged as a community leader by demonstrating commitment to volunteerism, philanthropy, and leadership with Lenawee Cares and other organizations in the community.

Nominations are due by Dec. 15. Nomination forms are available online at lenaweecommunityfoundation.com/ about-us/awards.

For more information, contact Kirsten Stiver at kirsten@lenaweecf.com or 517-263-4696.

Sonja Howell

Project Connect aims to link people in need with resources

Annual service fair is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the county fairgrounds

ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Continuum of Care will once again host Project Connect during Homelessness Awareness Month.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at the Lenawee County Fair and Event Grounds, 602 N. Dean St.

Project Connect is a one-stop shop where dozens of agencies come together to provide services, resources and health essentials to low income families and those experiencing homelessness.

A Veteran Stand Down event for veterans in need of assistance will also be taking place at the same time. Veterans should bring their photo ID or

DD-214 to participate.

Information and services will be provided by over 40 agencies, including those working in utilities and housing, education, legal aid, family services, employment, senior services, transportation, health care, and insurance.

Guests will also be able to get a hot meal, a hair cut, or a flu shot, and grab a food box to take with them.

The Lenawee Public Transportation Authority is offering free rides to and from the fairgrounds. To schedule a ride, call 517-265-4444.

Sponsors include the Adrian Diversity Event Fund, Adrian Kiwanis Club, My Cousin Vinny’s Barber Shop, Adrian Medical Pharmacy, and the Department of Health and Human Services.

For more information, contact Chelsey Boss at the Adrian District library by calling 517-265-2265 or emailing cboss@adrian.lib.mi.us.

St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry and Meijer partner to fight hunger

ADRIAN — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has reported that one in eight Americans face food insecurity nationwide. More and more members of the Lenawee County community are turning to local food pantries for help in ensuring they have ample food for their next meal. The St. Vincent de Paul food pantry in Adrian has seen a continued increase in requests for food by individuals and families.

To help respond, the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry is receiving an additional large donation from Meijer this year. Meijer recently surpassed $100 million donated to food pantries through the Meijer Simply Give hunger relief program.

The Simply Give program helps more than 600 food pantries in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and

Wisconsin feed hungry families by giving them food-only gift cards to help keep their shelves stocked. The program fosters a sense of community by encouraging Meijer customers to add a $10 Simply Give donation cards to their carts at checkout. These are combined with equal and double matches by Meijer and then converted into the Meijer foodonly cards and given to the local food panties that participate in the program.

The Adrian St. Vincent de Paul food pantry, located at the St. Joseph Campus of Holy Family Parish, will benefit from donation cards purchased at the Adrian Meijer through Dec. 27. On Dec. 13, Meijer will double-match contributions, meaning they will contribute an additional $20 for each $10 donation card a customer adds to their cart on that day.

Jaren Settles was the Clinton Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for September. He holds a 4.21 GPA this year and is taking a number of advanced placement classes. He is involved in SeaPerch, a hands-on STEM program that teaches building and operating a Remotely Operated Vehicle. As an entrepreneur at a young age, he now owns and operates Lenawee Pressure Washing LLC where he and three employees handle the needs of close to 100 customers. His other interests include football, robotics club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His plans for the future include pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree at the University of Toledo. He is pictured here with his

and Rotary member Jim Roland.

mother Laura, brother Kaden,

OF

CLINTON ROTARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH

IN BRIEF

Athena Aid event is Dec. 11

ADRIAN — The next Athena Aid event organized by the women’s leadership group Athena Lenawee will be on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Hills of Lenawee Golf Club, 4110 Country Club Road, Adrian.

The club will be collecting personal hygiene items and diapers for local organizations such as the Catherine Cobb shelter, Fishes and Loaves, and the Daily Bread.

A $20 donation is suggested to attend.

RSVPs are requested by Dec. 3 to Licia Willnow at lwillnow@cliftauto.com.

Courage to Care Award to be presented on Nov. 18

ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Continuum of Care will present the annual Norma Dell Courage to Care Award on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 3:30 p.m. The presentation will take place at Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan, 1357 Division St., Adrian.

Rock and Bowl benefit for Julian Olivarez

ADRIAN — A benefit will be held later this month for Madison Middle School student Julian Olivarez, who was diagnosed in September with medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

The Rock and Bowl event will take place at noon at Saturday, Nov. 15, at Lenawee Recreation, 520 College Ave., Adrian.

Admission is $25 per person and the event will include a 50/50 drawing and silent auction. For more information, call 517-918-5422 or email lilaexecdirector@ gmail.com.

Community Action Agency planning public forums

ADRIAN — Community Action Agency is conducting a Community Needs Assessment to learn about the needs of everyone who uses, or might need to use, their services. The agency is seeking to learn if, and how, people’s needs may be changing, what barriers may exist to accessing services, and how they could be improved.

Forums are being planned for:

n Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 6–7:30 p.m. at the Lenawee District Library, 4459 U.S. 223, Adrian.

n Saturday, Nov. 22, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci.

To register, email Jeff Schilling at jeff@schilling-consulting.com.

Town hall on homelessness

ADRIAN — The Share the Warmth shelter will host a town hall meeting on homelessness at Adrian College’s Valade Hall on Monday, Nov. 3, at 6 p.m.

Holiday light hanging in Morenci’s Wakefield Park

MORENCI — The city of Morenci is teaming up with Morenci High School student athletes and club members to string lights at Wakefield Park for the holiday season, and the community is invited to help. The work will begin at 3:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Volunteers will meet near the concession stand. The city will provide all lights and materials.

4459

HEALTH & WELLNESS

What seniors need to know about Medicare and Medigap

As the fall season rolls in, so does a critical time for Lenawee County’s senior citizens: Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. This yearly window is when current Medicare beneficiaries can review, compare, and make important decisions about their healthcare coverage for the coming year. These choices can affect both their health and finances.

Make informed choices that last all year

Choosing a Medicare plan or supplement, like a Medigap policy, is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It’s essential to do your homework. Ask yourself:

n Should I consider a stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D)?

n Would a more comprehensive plan like Medicare Advantage (Part C) serve me better?

n Do I need extra coverage to help pay out-of-pocket costs not covered by Medicare?

These are important questions, and

BEN NEGRON

the answers vary depending on your personal healthcare needs, prescriptions, and financial situation.

Get help from trusted, local experts

For many, Medicare can feel like an alphabet soup of confusing parts and policies. That’s why seeking out experienced, trustworthy help is so important. In our own community, professionals like Bill Millner have years of experience helping people navigate the complex world of Medicare and Medigap. HOLA (Hispanics of Lenawee Alliance) recommends seeking guidance from licensed, reputable advisors with

a track record of helping seniors save money and get the coverage they need.

Don’t let language be a barrier For Spanish-speaking seniors, understanding Medicare options can be even more challenging — that’s where HOLA comes in. If you or someone you know needs help translating or understanding the information during a Medicare consultation, we’re here to assist. Our team provides translation services and can accompany clients to appointments to ensure nothing gets lost in translation.

Key Enrollment Deadlines

There are two types of enrollment periods to be aware of:

n Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — Oct, 15 to Dec 7. During this time, anyone already enrolled in Medicare can switch between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage; join, drop, or switch a Medicare drug plan; or change Medigap policies (if applicable).

n Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) — For those turning 65. You have a seven-month window of three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and three months after.Enrolling during the three months before your birthday ensures coverage starts the month you turn 65. If you enroll later, your coverage will begin the month after you sign up.

Reliable resources to start with It’s always smart to double-check what you’re being told, even by professionals. Here are a few trusted resources to help you understand your options: The Medicare website — medicare.gov.

State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP), which offers free counseling from certified Medicare experts — www.shiphelp.org.

HOLA for bilingual assistance and advocacy — holalenawee.com.

County

When Adrian resident Linda first began helping her father with daily tasks, she thought of it as “just being a good daughter.” But as the years passed, her responsibilities grew — doctor visits, meal preparation, household chores, and medication reminders soon filled her days. “I love my dad,” she said, “but I realized I was so busy taking care of him that I wasn’t spending time with him.”

Linda’s experience mirrors that of many Lenawee County residents quietly caring for aging parents, spouses, friends, and neighbors. Across the community, caregivers balance their love and dedication with the real challenges of time, stress, and emotional fatigue. Thankfully, Lenawee County is a place

CARI REBOTTARO

where support runs deep. Churches, health and service providers, along with Lenawee Department on Aging and WellWise Services, have built a network of care that helps families manage the many layers of caregiving. From meal delivery and transportation services to respite programs, including adult day programs, and caregiver support groups,

these community connections help lighten the load.

The key, local advocates say, is reaching out early. Accepting help before burnout sets in gives caregivers and their loved ones time to adjust and thrive. “Caregiving works best when no one feels alone in it,” said Department on Aging’s Navigator Support Group leader, Kathleen Betzoldt, Licensed Professional Counselor. “When we share the responsibility, everyone does better — the caregiver, the loved one, and the community as a whole.”

Resources for caregivers can be found throughout Lenawee County. Both Lenawee Department on Aging and WellWise Services have staff educated on the many organizations that can assist

The Great American Smokeout: A call to action

Each November, the American Cancer Society hosts the Great American Smokeout, a national event that encourages people who smoke to commit to quitting, even if just for a single day. For Lenawee County, where smoking rates remain higher than state and national averages, the event is more than symbolic, it is a call to action.

In Lenawee County, 17% of adults smoke, compared to 16% statewide and 13% nationally, according to the most recent County Health Rankings report. While smoking rates in Michigan have steadily declined over the past decade, statewide surveys show Lenawee continues to lag behind, with more residents smoking than the state and national averages.

The cost in lives is significant. Data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) show that of the 970 deaths in Lenawee County in 2023, 129, or 13.3%, were directly caused by smoking. Another 18 deaths were attributed to secondhand smoke, reflecting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 1,700 non-smokers die each year in Michigan due to exposure. Tobacco also contributes to poor maternal and child health. MDHHS

MONICA HUNT

reports that in 2022, 11.7% of Lenawee women smoked during pregnancy, compared with 8.4% statewide. Smoking while pregnant increases the risk of complications, low birth weight, and respiratory issues for infants. Secondhand smoke can also affect infants and children, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses and other health problems.

The financial toll of tobacco use is equally concerning. MDHHS and CDC data show smoking-related health care costs in Lenawee total $34.6 million annually, with Medicaid covering about $11.2 million of those costs. On average, that equals $412 per Lenawee resident every year.

There is, however, progress and hope. The Michigan Tobacco Quit Line has been a lifeline for many. Between October 2023 and September 2024, 18 Lenawee residents enrolled, and

statewide data show 27% of enrollees remain tobacco-free seven months after enrollment.

Quitting is not easy, but it is possible, and the benefits begin almost immediately. Research shows quitting reduces risks for heart disease, cancer, and chronic lung conditions, and can add years of healthy life expectancy. Even people already diagnosed with conditions such as COPD or heart disease see health improvements when they quit.

On Nov. 21, Lenawee County residents are invited to join the Great American Smokeout. Whether you’re quitting for the first time, trying again, or supporting someone else, this is a day to take action. Free resources are available: call 1-800-QUIT-NOW, visit Quit Smoking Resources on our website, or speak with your health care provider. Lenawee carries a heavier burden of tobacco use than many communities in Michigan, but with collective effort, we can reduce preventable deaths, ease financial strain, and create a healthier future for all county residents.

older adults and caregivers. The Older Adult Resource Guide at lenaweeseniors.org offers a list of local programs, while seniorpreferences. com highlights options across southeast Michigan. Many caregivers also find help through their churches and healthcare providers who can connect them with community-based services.

Caregiving is an act of love — but love grows stronger when it’s supported. In Lenawee County, that support comes from neighbors, friends, and organizations working together to make sure no caregiver has to carry the weight alone.

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

SUPPORT GROUPS

Greater Hudson Area Breast Cancer Support Group: First Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m., Main Street Perk, 211 Main St., Hudson. Contact Carolyn Booker, 517-812-8855.

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

Good Grief: Free drop-in group for adults widowed earlier in life, meeting on the second Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Hospice of Lenawee, 1903 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian. Contact Heather Popkey or Karen Cheney at 517-263-2323.

The 4 R’s of Dementia Caregiving: A free event for caregivers of people living with dementia will take place at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at Daybreak, 327 Erie St., Adrian.

Men’s Caregiver Support Group: Friday, Nov. 7, from 2-3:30 p.m. at Daybreak, 327 Erie St., Adrian.

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

Ben Negron is the founder and executive director of Hispanice of Lenawee Alliance (HOLA).

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

IN MEMORY

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

[ADS] Adrian Dominican Sisters, adriandominicans.org

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

[BJFH] Borek Jennings Funeral Home, borekjennings.com

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

[E] Eineder Funeral Homes, einederfuneralhomes.com

[H] Handler Funeral Homes, handlerfuneralhomes.com

[PA] Purse Funeral Home in Adrian, pursefuneralhome.com

[PS] Gil Purse & Son, gilpurseandson.com

[W] Wagley Funeral Homes, wagleyfuneralhomes.com

Lynn Ann Bannister, 79, of Adrian died on Sept. 12. [PS]

Lauren B. Frye, 79, of Adrian died on Sept. 21. He was a 1965 graduate of Blissfield High School and served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, stationed primarily in Iceland. Following his military service he began working for the Adrian Department of Public Works. In 2010 he became a founding member of the Tecumseh Harley Owners Group Chapter 1264. [AM]

Ruth Marie Goetz, 94, of Adrian died on Sept. 22. A 1948 graduate of Blissfield High School, she worked in various secretarial jobs, including at Adrian College, though her primary job was farming. [W]

Kimberlee Kay Pierson, 51, of Brooklyn died on Sept. 22. She was a 1992 graduate of Onsted Community Schools and became a medical assistant, later working as a mail carrier with the U.S. Postal Service. She was a former member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. [W]

Sister Alice Riegel, OP, 95, of Adrian died on Sept. 22. Formerly known as Sister Mary Carolm, she was in her 76th year of religious profession as an Adrian Dominican Sister. She was born in Royal Oak. After entering the Congregation, she ministered in elementary education. Among her ministries was Dominican High School in Detroit, where she spent a total of 26 years. [ADS]

Paul William Manthel Jr., 87, of Clarklake died on Sept. 23. He was a 1956 graduate of Hanover-Horton High School and attended Devry Institute. He worked at WILX-TV and later the Michigan State Police. He was a Civil War re-enactor and a member of the Flathead Ford Car Club. [W] Moises Martinez Noyola, 71, of Adrian died on Sept. 23. [PA]

Janet Marie Pickell, 82, of Deerfield died on Sept. 23. She worked at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital as a patient care tech. She attended Ogden Church for several years and volunteered many hours as their secretary. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Britton and participated in the Jaycee Follies. [H]

Leland Troy Thompson, 78, of Clinton died on Sept. 23. He was deeply involved with Tecumseh Assembly of God. When he wasn’t working for the church he enjoyed hunting and collecting rocks. (H)

Meredith Marlene Sims, 87, of Adrian died on Sept. 24. She had worked at Herrick Hospital in Tecumseh. [AM]

Ethel “May” Crow, 81, of Adrian died on Sept. 25. She worked as deputy drain commissioner and later as the Lenawee County treasurer. [AM]

Douglas George Hillard, 87, of Adrian died on Sept. 25. He was a graduate of Lyons High School and earned his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and his master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University. He worked as a science instructor for the Adrian Training School for over 31 years, retiring in 1996. [AM]

Donna Marie Marion, 83, of Clinton died on Sept. 25. She graduated from Henry Ford Nursing School in 1963 and pursued a career as a registered nurse, then as a pediatric nurse practitioner. She was a member of Christ Our King Lutheran Church and the Queen Mum of the Clinton Red Hatters Chapter. [H]

Douglas Lloyd Fisher, 71, of Blissfield died on Sept. 26. [PA]

Nellie Opal Linebeck, 75, of Adrian died on Sept. 26. [PA]

Don W. Schimmel, 97, of Onsted died on Sept. 26. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He attended St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Onsted. He was a Lions Club member for many years in Cedarville, enjoyed boating, and was a vice commodore of the Le Cheneaux Yacht Club in Cedarville. [H]

Dennis Roger Spina, 80, of Onsted died on Sept. 26. He worked in plastics as a process engineer for his entire career. [H]

Michael Lee Barnes, 66, of Adrian died on Sept. 27. He worked at General Motors in Adrian, retiring after 23 years. He was skilled at building garages and sheds and had a passion for cars. [AM]

Sandra Kay (Boldt) Burnett, 86, of Brooklyn died on Sept. 27. She was a 1957 graduate of Brooklyn High School. After graduation she worked at The Spot and Trolz in Brooklyn. She displayed and sold her artwork at Byrd and Co. in Tecumseh and at numerous craft shows. [PA]

Gregory Dale Ikle , 70, of Adrian died on Sept. 27. He was retired from the Michigan Department of Corrections where he served as a corrections officer. He also owned and operated GF Graphics in Adrian. [PA]

Rebecca “Becky” R. Krouse, 66, of Tecumseh died on Sept. 28. She was employed as a lab technician in the plastics industry. [H]

Larry Lee Sizemore, 48, of Adrian died on Sept. 28. He worked alongside his father, Mark, in the family business, Sizemore Painting. [PA]

Carlos D. Torres Sr., 91, of Adrian died on Sept. 28. He worked at Tecumseh Products for 47 years, retiring in 1999. He was a member of Holy Family Parish, St. Mary’s campus. He was also involved with Promise Keepers and was on the board of directors for the Department on Aging. [AM]

Leon G. Wollet, 99, of Pittsford died on Sept. 28. He was a 1944 graduate of Hudson High School and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked as a mechanic at Harper Chevrolet in Hudson for many years. [AM]

Bernard “Bernie” F. Tonsor Jr., 72, of Adrian died on Sept. 29. He served in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War and earned multiple awards, including a Purple Heart and Medal of Valor. He later worked as a corrections officer, farmer, contractor, basketball coach, and videographer for 9&10 News. [AM]

Robert Arthur Arkabauer, 74, of Jackson died on Sept. 30. He was a lifetime member of the Brooklyn Presbyterian Church. He worked at Plastic Gage and Columbia Schools for many years, and the kids referred to him as “Uncle Bob with the popcorn machine.” [E]

Melissa “Lissa” Kay Collins, 72, of Blissfield died on Oct. 1. She worked as a veterinary technician at Blissfield Veterinary Services for over 23 years. [W]

Daniel Reid Hawkins, 62, of Novi died on Oct. 1. He was a 1982 graduate of Tecumseh High School and attended Jackson Community College. He worked for the Wolverine Truck Plaza at I-94 and Baker Road for 12 years. [PS]

Matthew Edward Wolfe, 45, of Blissfield died on Oct. 1. He was a University of Toledo graduate who worked as an accountant for several companies and also owned his own consulting firm. [AM]

Deanna S. Bellman, 74, of Pittsford died on Oct. 2. She was a 1968 graduate of Hudson High School. She worked as a beautician for several years, did data entry for the Elks and Simpsons, worked for Hi-Lex in Hudson, and at the Hillsdale County Fair. She and her husband were foster parents for over 15 years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. [AM]

John L. McConnell, 88, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 2. He served four years in the U.S. Navy. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Michigan and a doctorate in education from Wayne State University. He taught middle school, high school, and college. He was a member of NAACP and People Against Racism. Over many years he prepared and served meals at the Church of Christ Soup Kitchen and for Share the Warmth. He was a member of the Blissfield Model Railroad Club, and also a strong supporter of the arts. [H]

Lawrence Anthony Pierceall, 78, of Hudson died on Oct. 2. He was a 1965 graduate of Addison High School. He started working at Merillat Industries after graduation and retired after 44 years when they closed. He was a member of the Hudson First Baptist Church. [BVH]

Barbara Snyder, 57, of Morenci died on Oct. 2. [PA]

Laura Kay Underwood, 91, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 2. She was a 1952 graduate of Monroe High School. [H]

The Rev. Carl Boutilier Jr., 88, of Freeport, Ohio, died on Oct. 3 in Adrian. He served in the U.S. Navy and was a graduate of Elohim Bible Institute and Grand Rapids Bible College. [PS]

Jane Alys Clark, 82, of Adrian died on Oct. 3. She held a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, was a member of Grace Point Evangelical Free Church, and volunteered at the Christian Mission, which she helped design. [W]

Ruby Elaine Cramer, 85, of Hudson died on Oct. 3. She worked for many years at Metalloy Foundry in Hudson. [BVH]

Kellie Lynn Gautz, 38, of Adrian died on Oct. 3. She was a 2004 graduate of Sand Creek Community Schools, where she played volleyball and was involved in 4-H showing goats. She worked at the TSC store in Adrian for several years, and more recently managed Pet Supplies Plus. [AM]

Linda E. Holden, 79, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 3. She worked at McDonald’s in Tecumseh and also at the Fabricare Laundromat in Tecumseh for many years. She was a member of the Tecumseh Assembly of God Church. [PA]

Shirley Jean Porterfield, 90, of Clinton died on Oct. 3. She was a graduate of Clinton High School and attended Jackson Business College, where she completed courses as a comptometer operator. [H]

William Allen Brininstool, 89, of Brooklyn died on Oct. 4. He was a 1955 graduate of Adrian High School and served in the U.S. Navy. He worked at Budd Company’s wheel and brake division. He was a charter member of the Irish Hills Eagles #3689. [W]

Jerry Holliday, 59, of Hudson died on Oct. 4. [PA]

Carmen Holliday, 60, of Hudson died on Oct. 4. [PA]

Terry Lyle Reinhart, 80, of Clinton died on Oct. 4. He served in the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the Luzerne American Legion, Tecumseh Eagles, and the Adrian Moose Lodge. [H]

Thomas Raymond Richter, 67, of Clinton died on Oct. 4. He worked as a supervisor for General Motors. [H]

John Frank Herdus, 92, of Clarklake died on Oct. 7. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He was a volunteer for the Liberty Fire Department for over 40 years. He played trumpet in the Polish Cavaliers, was involved in the Boy Scouts with his sons, and helped coach the Clarklake Little League teams. [E]

Jewel “Bob” Roberts, 99, of Fremont, Ohio, formerly of Adrian, died on Oct. 7. He served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army. After moving to Michigan he settled on a small seasonal farm where he raised chickens, pigs and cows, and grew Christmas trees, pumpkins, and flowers. He was a longtime member of the Moose and the American Legion. [AM]

John Edward “Chicken John” Staley, 76, of Adrian died on Oct. 7. He was a graduate of Adrian High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He worked in various factories and was known for raising chickens. [W]

Helen Stella Wielfaert-Korb, 100, of Britton died on Oct. 7. She lived a busy life raising five sons and working on the family farm. [W]

LeRoy Edward Felan, 81, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 8. He was a 1962 graduate of Wayne Memorial High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching from Eastern Michigan University. He worked as a cleaner for 41 years at the Ford Rawsonville plant. [H] Judy A. McCarty, 83, of Adrian died on Oct. 8. She worked as a dental assistant for various dentists in Adrian throughout her career. She was a member of the former Trenton Hills United Brethren Church in Adrian. [AM]

Cora Arbutus Morrison, 91, died on Oct. 8. She was a caregiver and professional seamstress. She was a member of the VFW and Senior Center in Dundee. [H]

Carrie Ann Sharp, 54, of Brooklyn died on Oct. 8. She was a graduate of Sand Creek High School and worked as a medical assistant instructor for over 20 years at Jackson Community College. She was a member of the Irish Hills Eagles #3689. [E] Paul F. Monahan Jr., 89, of Hudson died on Oct. 9. He began working at Fisher Body in Tecumseh in 1965, eventually retiring from Powertrain in Toledo after 32 years. In 1962 he became co-owner of Monahan Dairy Farm alongside his brother, Pat. He was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was the oldest surviving member of the Knights of Columbus Council #3221. [BVH]

Timothy Edward Norden, 73, of Clayton died on Oct. 9. He was a graduate of Madison High School. He worked at Bohn Aluminium/Hydro Aluminum for 39 years, retiring when the plant closed. He was a longtime member of several veteran and fraternal organizations, including the VFW, American Legion Post 97, the Eagles, and Amvets Post 1957. [W]

Cheryl Marie Pickney, 71, of Adrian died on Oct. 9. She was a 1971 graduate of Adrian High School and earned degrees from Ferris State University. She had a long career as a registered nurse and administrator in various leadership roles, retiring from the Adrian Dominican Sisters. [AM]

Karen P. Benschoter, 76, of Adrian died on Oct. 10. She worked as a cook at the Rock Inn in Adrian and also at Boysville in Macon. She retired as head cook at the Tennessean Truck Stop. [PA]

Thomas Alfred Cutler, 84, of Adrian died on Oct. 10. He was a 1960 graduate of Morenci High School and served in the U.S. Army. He worked at Merillat Industries and then at Ford Motor Company in Saline, retiring in 1998 after 30 years. [W]

Wanda Jane Kruse, 91, of Morenci died on Oct. 10. She was a graduate of Morenci High School. She owned Morenci Bookkeeping and Tax Service until 1985, at which time she went back to school for nursing, obtaining her LPN license. She worked for Dr. Magbanua in Waldron and Dr. Shetty in Morenci until her retirement. [AM]

Gary Lee “Giz” Mathis, 72, of Adrian died on Oct. 10. He had a passion for history and genealogy, and was also a talented musician. [AM]

Troy Curtis Smith, 84, of Blissfield died on Oct. 10. He retired from Blissfield Manufacturing after more than 25 years as a purchasing agent. He was a founding member of the Blissfield Baptist Church. [AM]

Edward Parkes Steele III, 70, of Tipton died on Oct. 11. He worked for Axis Integration and Engineering in Britton before retirement. He was a collector of Farmall tractors and loved working on anything electrical. [H]

Deborah Ann (Vargas) Byington, 64, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 12. She spent most of her working years coordinating Kikut Hair Studio in Ann Arbor. [AM]

Rabon “Ray” Armistead, 84, of Riga died on Oct. 13. He was a 1959 graduate of Whiteford High School. He worked at the General Motors Powertrain plant in Toledo, retiring as a supervisor after over 30 years of service. In retirement he worked at the Farmer Co-Op in Deerfield. [AM]

Timothy J. Rogers, 67, of Deerfield died on Oct. 12. He was a 1976 graduate of Summerfield High School and was the owner/operator of his own trucking business. [W]

Freddy O’Quinn, 78, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 13. He served as a medic in the U.S. Army. He graduated from Siena Heights College in 1978. He worked as a accountant. He was a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, and also of Civitan, the Tecumseh Fan Club, and the Adrian Moose. He enjoyed working with his brother, Tom, at Tom’s World of Wood and the UAW. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and was a member of Irish Hills HOG Chapter 1294. [H]

Carol Marie Winters, 97, of Adrian died on Oct. 13. She loved reading and frequented the Loving Branch Library so often they offered her a job as a library assistant, which she held for decades. [PA]

been employed for over 40 years as a disc jockey in California. He attended Tecumseh Missionary Baptist Church. [AM]

Morissa Katie Glisson, 38, of Adrian died on Oct. 15. She enjoyed hobbies such as arts and crafts and collecting porcelain dolls. She was also an avid reader. [PA]

Sharlene F. “Shar” Anderson, 67, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 14. She was a 1976 graduate of Tecumseh High School and a 1991 nursing school graduate. [PS]

Gary Lynn Cole, 71, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 14. He was a 1972 graduate of Ypsilanti High School and retired from Ford Motor Co. after 30 years of service. He was a member of the Lenawee County Conservation League and an avid fisherman. [E]

Judith Ann Craig, 84, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 14. She was a graduate of Tecumseh High School and Stautzenberger College in Maumee, Ohio. She worked at Tecumseh Products for 18 years, eventually becoming executive secretary for the chairman of the board and the CEO. She attended Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church and served as the church secretary. [H]

Patricia Ann “Patty” Hewitt, 63, of Tipton died on Oct. 14. She worked at Home Depot and was a member of the Tecumseh Church of Christ. While her children were involved in baseball she served as President of the Ypsilanti National Little League. [H]

David Howard Jones, 82, of Adrian died on Oct. 14. He taught music for many years. He and his wife played the piano and organ together for 60 years, ministering in churches in Florida, Tennessee, Ohio, and Michigan. He was also employed at U.S. Airways for 26 years. [AM]

Duane August Schwartz, 83, of Adrian died on Oct. 14. He served in the U.S. Navy for over 21 years, retiring as a chief weapons technician. Upon moving to Michigan he worked as an industrial electrician until his retirement in 2004. [AM]

Owen Dennis Willett, 85, of Adrian died on Oct. 14. He was a 1958 graduate of Au Gres High School and earned his associate’s degree from Bay City Junior College. He worked as a manager for Kroger for many years. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and served as a deacon. He was also involved in The Gideons International. [W]

Richard J. Traeger, 75, of Adrian died on Oct. 14. He was locally known as “Dick Lyons” in the entertainment industry, having

Kathryn “Kathy” Green, 90, of Adrian died on Oct. 15. She was a 1953 graduate of Adrian High School. During her career she worked at at Michigan Dairy Producers, the Daily Telegram, Braun Funeral Home, and the Department on Aging. She was a member of the Lenawee Theatre Guild and the Adrian Jaycee Auxiliary, where she contributed to a 1963 initiative that helped establish a Community Mental Health program in Lenawee County. She volunteered with fundraising for the YMCA, United Way, and Bixby Hospital. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Adrian, serving as a deacon, elder, and president of the Women’s Association. [W] Carolyn Joy Powers, 84, of Clinton died on Oct. 15. She held two master’s degrees from Eastern Michigan University and taught in Van Buren Public Schools for 30 years. She was a member of the Clinton Baptist Church. Music was her passion and she loved singing in the Ypsilanti Community Choir. [H]

George Harmond Gragg Jr., 53, of Tipton died on Oct. 16. He was self-employed as a mason and after work he loved riding his motorcycle and being outdoors. [H] Daryl D. Snyder, 78, of Adrian died on Oct. 17. He was a graduate of North Adams High School and served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force as a radar operator. He retired as an electrician at Tecumseh Products. [PS] Jody W. Scharer, 69, of Adrian died on Oct. 18. He was a 1974 graduate of Adrian High School. He was a passionate motorcycle rider and the proud owner of his Porsche, known as “The Batmobile.” He was a regular at Fricker’s and attended New Life Church. [W]

Willliam “Bill” Robert Pierce, 54, of Clayton died on Oct. 19. After graduating from Eaton Rapids High School he served in the U.S. Army during Operation Desert Storm. He attended Jackson Community College, attaining an associate degree. He was a certified welder until a disability forced him into retirement. [AM]

Robert “Bob” C. Routley, 94, of Manitou Beach died on Oct. 20. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, then worked for Ford Motor Co. as a stock handler, retiring in 1994. [AM]

Donald Walter Masserang, age 75, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 21. He spent his career as a special education teacher with the Macomb Intermediate School District. He had a deep appreciation for bonsai tree gardening and spent many hours volunteering at Hidden Lake Gardens. [AM] Jonathan Alexander “Jonny” Quinton, 42, of Blissfield died on Oct. 20. He and his wife, Emily, purchased a physical therapy practice in Blissfield in 2013. He was a member of the Blissfield Rotary Club and volunteered with the Adrian Rea Literacy Center. He attended Elem3nt church. [AM] Rita Theresa Vaclavek, 94, of Tecumseh died on Oct. 21. She was a member of the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church. [AM]

Henagan said Russaw was a voice for workers during his career and that he continues to advocate for Local 2031 retirees, in addition to serving as a board member for the Lenawee County chapter of the American Red Cross and volunteering as a driver for the Lenawee County Department on Aging.

Russaw began his remarks by telling the audience how he came to live in Adrian almost 40 years ago.

“I came here in 1987 from a closing facility of General Motors, not knowing what the future held, but I was guided by faith,” he said.

He said moving to Adrian “started a new chapter in my life.”

“I came here sight unseen. I didn’t have to be told what was waiting for me because I knew God had me,” he said.

Russaw reflected on the nature of community service, saying that “it’s not that you do it for adoration, admiration, or even congratulation. You do it because you’re called to serve.”

He described the difficult time for workers that resulted when General Motors spun off its parts division into a separate company, Delphi Automotive, and when Delphi filed for bankruptcy six years later. During that time, he was elected to represent Delphi workers in negotiations at the national level and worked to protect pension benefits.

“Sitting down at the main table where they’re serving the food, you see what’s on that menu,” he said, “and I was bound and determined not to return home to my community here in Adrian without something to reward them for everything they’d done.”

A Community Service Award was also presented to the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee, which offers after-school programs for youth at clubhouses in Adrian and Hudson.

“For years, the Boys & Girls Club has been a cornerstone of hope, growth and opportunity for our youth,” said NAACP executive committee member Kasey White.

“The Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee serves over 800 young people every year across Adrian and Hudson,” White said. “That’s 800 lives being enriched,

supported and inspired through every homework assignment completed, every healthy meal shared, and every word of encouragement offered by caring staff and volunteers.”

Sara Herriman, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee, was joined at the event by a number of club members.

“Our mission has always been to create a safe place where every young person feels seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential,” she said.

“This recognition means so much because it comes from an organization that has long stood for justice, equity and opportunity for all.”

Vince Emrick, police chief for the city of Adrian, was presented with the NAACP chapter’s third Larry Richardson Memorial Police Officer of the Year Award. Richardson, who died in 2018, was the first Black person to serve as an Adrian police officer when he was hired by the department in 1969. He spent three decades with the Adrian Police Department and then served two terms as Lenawee County sheriff.

Joe Costello, a retired judge and NAACP executive committee member, said that Emrick’s service to the community has gone far beyond the traditional role of police chief. He noted in particular the four times that Emrick has served as interim city administrator during leadership vacancies at City Hall. He also said Emrick has made it a priority to put people first and serve all of Adrian’s residents equally.

“He’s always shown a remarkable commitment to immigrant and Latino residents of Adrian, and during these challenging moments when ICE operations caused fear and confusion in our city, he stepped forward as a steady and empathetic liaison,” Costello said, reading from the nomination letter for Emrick. “He listened carefully to the public’s concerns, gave educational updates to the city when leaders were not sure how to respond, and he even created a class for the community to clarify what residents could and could not do under the law. And to prepare for this he undertook extensive research and

made countless phone calls to ensure the information he shared was accurate, empowering, and fair.”

Costello continued: “He has earned the trust of the people of Adrian, not through words alone but through action after action that has strengthened the bonds between the city and its residents.”

Emrick described some of the lessons he learned from Richardson, such as “how to treat people with respect and fairness without needing to be the loudest voice in the room.”

“His presence was overwhelming but you didn’t know it,” Emrick said. “He wasn’t shouting at you, he wasn’t shoving his authority down your throat — he was respectful and he commanded the room when he came in.”

Emrick said the honor was particularly meaningful to him because Richardson and the late Tony Cuevas, who was the first recipient of the NAACP’s Police Officer of the Year Award, are two people he has always wanted to emulate during his law enforcement career.

The HOPE Community Center, located at 431 Baker St. in Adrian, serves developmentally disabled adults from throughout Lenawee County. The fact that the organization has its own building is one of the things O’Hotzke thinks helps make the center unique.

“A lot of programs [like HOPE] don’t have a building, a place like this that the members can call home,” she said.

“There are many reasons why this place is important. For the developmentally disabled community, a lot of them need a place where they can make friends, be safe, and make choices for themselves. And their families get respite for themselves.”

The center has approximately 100 regularly participating members at present. O’Hotzke sees one of her challenges as being “to really spread the word” about what the center provides for the developmentally disabled.

“I think a lot of people could be utilizing our services that aren’t,” she said. “I want people to know what we can offer.”

At the center, members can take part in a wide range of recreational, social,

and educational activities. Someone might decide to play bingo or cards, sing karaoke, use a computer, or shoot hoops, for example — and if they really enjoy basketball, they might even get a spot on the Hoopsters.

Members can also take classes in everything from cooking, nutrition, and kitchen safety to personal hygiene and art. They participate in a wide range of activities away from the center as well,

including volunteering for organizations such as Meals on Wheels, the Humane Society, the Porter Center, and Share the Warmth.

“And if there’s something they want to do, we help them learn it,” O’Hotzke said.

To her, the fact that members can select for themselves from so many activities is important, because they can have a say in what they want to do every day. And even assisting with tasks such

as sweeping the floors or taking out the trash “helps give them ownership” and think of the center as their space.

The center has six paid staffers, student interns from both Siena Heights University and Adrian College, and many volunteers who give classes, assist with activities, sit with members who need some extra support, and much more.

Members’ families are very much a part of the center as well. “Our HOPE families are amazing,” O’Hotzke said. “They help out, they support us, and they trust us with their family members.”

The center is now entering its 50th year of serving Lenawee County, “which is huge,” she said. “To be going all this time is a testament to our community.”

In addition to working to raise awareness of the HOPE Community Center, O’Hotzke said among her aims as executive director is for the center to offer even more programs for its members. “And we’re always looking for ways to get out in the community,” she said.

“Our goal at the end of the day is always to serve our members and to give our members, their families, and the community the HOPE Center they deserve.”

Boys and Girls Club of Lenawee youth, board members, and staff members who attended the NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet included, in the back row, Julia Tilton, Tobias Mueller, Theodore Mueller, Artrell Terry, Jennifer Hunter, and Mark Baker; and in the front row, Laura Bell,

Isaiah Al- Mohammed, A’layshia Terry, Sara Herriman, Harmonie Travis, and Heaven Rosas. ERIK GABLE/LENAWEE VOICE

HOPE Center from page C1

Katie O’Hotzke, the HOPE Community Center’s new executive director, learns how to play a card game from some of the center’s members. ARLENE BACHANOV/LENAWEE VOICE

ARTS & LIVING

» PAGE D3

Above Pete’s Garage

Local nonprofit helps students of all ages build musical careers

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — If he’d been able to follow his childhood dream of being a pro hockey player, Pete Bishop’s life would have gone in a far different direction than it did.

He played hockey as a youngster, “and I was good at it,” he said. But when he was 13 years old, his stepfather put a stop to the hockey-playing. And so, he switched to music.

What followed was more than 30 years of touring nationally and internationally, writing songs, producing records and live events, and TV and film work. Along the way, “I made a lot of mistakes. But I had people to show me the way,” he said, and get him back on the right path in life — and that, in turn, led him to want to be that person for others.

“I’m a person of faith, so generosity and love and kindness are built into that,” he said.

The end result was Above Pete’s Garage, a nonprofit music studio where people of all ages can learn how to play instruments, hone their songwriting and singing skills, get their music recorded, and use the latest technologies in audio and video production.

And for individuals, all of it is free.

“We’ve never charged an individual artist for anything, ever,” Bishop said.

The studio is funded through the fees paid by organizations such as school districts that arrange for classes, through grants and donations, and through a program called Join the Band where supporters make monthly donations.

At first, Bishop’s studio was located, yes, above his garage. But for about 10 years now, it’s been housed in a space at 5353 W. U.S. 223, just outside Adrian.

In addition to working with individuals, Bishop teaches Adrian College and LISD Tech Center students, and he and his colleagues teach students far beyond Lenawee County.

“At last count, we’ve worked with about 15 schools in Michigan and over 100,000 artists across the country,” he said, “and we’re in 22 juvenile detention centers.” In that program, APG mentors teach young people how to channel their emotions into songwriting instead of negative behaviors.

Above Pete’s Garage carries out its mission with the help of several volunteer board members and mentors, plus many of the students themselves who pitch in to work with other young people. Bishop is quick to give his team most of the credit for what happens thanks to the studio.

See ABOVE PETE’S GARAGE, page D2

audio and video

Maelynn Moffitt and Dylan Cumberland, both Adrian College students, work on recording a song they composed and that they are now turning into a midterm project. They are pictured here working with Pete Bishop, founder of Above Pete’s Garage. The nonprofit musical organization, which did indeed start above Bishop’s garage as the name suggests, provides studio space where people of all ages can learn how to play instruments, hone their songwriting and singing skills, get their music recorded, and use the latest technologies in

production. PHOTOS BY LAD STRAYER/LENAWEE VOICE

Above Pete’s Garage collaborates with The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace in downtown Adrian to host monthly Bring Your Own Talent Nights on the third Thursday of every month from 6-8 p.m. Here, founder Pete Bishop accompanies students Madeleine Fuller and Kayli Butler.

Composer Gala Flagello is ASO’s guest at November concert

Above Pete’s Garage

from page D1

“Obviously I’m a part of it, but it’s not all about me,” he said. “This doesn’t exist without the other 50 or 100 people.”

During one of the studio’s regular Thursday open-recording nights recently, a number of young people and adults gathered to talk about what being a part of Above Pete’s Garage has meant to them.

“I didn’t know I could write songs,” said Jessica Smallman of Delta, Ohio, who learned about Above Pete’s Garage four or five years ago from a friend. “I didn’t know I could be someone like that.”

She now records her music under the name Chain of Hearts — from the idea that “we’re all connected, but you can be chained to someone, for good or bad” — and helps with the studio’s songwriting classes.

Although she’s one of the studio’s older participants, “it doesn’t matter what age you are,” she said. “You can be 11, or 40 like me, or 70. When you come here, age doesn’t exist. I don’t feel like I’m older than everybody else.”

And from being around the young people who get involved with the studio, she knows first-hand the impact it has. “This is a positive atmosphere,” she said. “I’ve seen people with no confidence really blossom.”

“It’s an incredible program, and the world is a better place because

of it.”

— Pat Farver, APG mentor and board member

Caity Merkle of Onsted is one of those people. Her goal is to try out for TV’s “The Voice,” but “I’ve always struggled with stage fright,” she said. “I’m looking to get more confidence,” and she’s found a supportive environment at the studio.

Seventeen-year-old singer-songwriter Kayli Butler of Hudson has been coming to Above Pete’s Garage since about age 11. “I’ve grown up around this studio,” she said. Without it being a part of her life, she said, “I don’t think I would have come out the same way.”

Adrian College junior Dylan Cumberland of Florida, who was at the studio this particular afternoon to work on a midterm project, started his college career studying business but found himself struggling with his classes and with being so far away from home. Then he took a music production class and his life changed.

He became a commercial music major and saw his grade point average go from being 0.9 two semesters ago to now being on track for at least a 3.5, if not higher.

“I’m much happier doing what I love,” he said.

But Above Pete’s Garage is about far more than teaching musical and technical skills — for many of the students, it’s about giving the students a safe space to be themselves and be supported by mentors and peers.

“It’s what family is supposed to be,” Smallman said.

Bishop knows that his studio makes a difference in young people’s lives. A significant number of the students he works with are struggling in some way, perhaps with mental health issues, perhaps with the lack of a stable adult presence in their life. “So maybe we need to be the person that listens to them,” he said.

Some of the adults involved with Above Pete’s Garage came first as students and then became teachers and mentors because they’ve seen the impact

the studio has had on so many people. Pat Farver is one of those students turned mentors.

Music has been a part of Farver’s life since he was 7 years old and his parents got him a drum kit “to deal with my hyperactivity,” he said. He’s played in bands for a long time and done a little recording in his home studio, “but I wanted to learn more.”

As he spent time around Bishop’s studio, “I saw the positive effect Pete was getting with kids. It was such a safe space,” he said.

“Kids come in timid and they leave changed. I think that in some instances it not only changes lives but saves them. I

was so touched, I said ‘I’ve got to be part of this.’ ” Today, Farver is a board member as well as a mentor, in addition to having another outlet for his musical interests. “It kind of fuels my passion and I get to see all the positive things that happen,” he said.

“It’s an incredible program, and the world is a better place because of it.”

Students aspiring to careers as performers can see, in the person of teacher Conor Reed, their own real-life example of what they could become.

Reed grew up around music — “it was how I connected with the world around me,” he said — and went on to become

a professional musician, doing session playing and working as a bandleader, and works with the students at Bishop’s studio. And he loves being a part of seeing budding musicians learn and grow there.

“Look at Kayli,” he said. “She couldn’t play guitar when she got here, and now she’s writing her own songs. … For a lot of the musicians who come through here, to call it having a chance [at a music career] isn’t doing it justice. They have a real opportunity.”

information about Above Pete’s Garage

Pete Bishop (at left) and his students begin each session by gathering together just to talk about their day. Everyone mentions something that has gone well for them that day and something that has not gone the way they had hoped. PHOTOS BY LAD STRAYER/LENAWEE VOICE

Jessica Smallman performs during Bring Your Own Talent Night at The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace. Smallman came to APG as a student and now mentors other artists. As one of APG’s older participants, she says, “it doesn’t matter what age you are. You can be 11, or 40 like me, or 70.”

Taye Louden 16, works on his instrumental portfolio.

Siblings Aiden and Araya Morgan work on editing the vocals on one of Araya’s compositions. The training at Above Pete’s Garage includes the technical aspects of music recording and mixing.

Trent Aneed, 17, works on his guitar skills in the Above Pete’s Garage studio space at 5353 West U.S. 223.

Composer Gala Flagello to introduce her own work at ASO’s November concert

By Arlene Bachanov The Lenawee Voice

ADRIAN — A relatively new work by American composer Gala Flagello, a Maurice Ravel concerto that was influenced by everything from Mozart to jazz, and the symphony that Finnish composer Jean Sibelius began writing during a stay in Italy are on tap for the first classical concert of the Adrian Symphony Orchestra’s season.

The concert is at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at Adrian College’s Dawson Auditorium. A Classical Conversation with Music Director Bruce Anthony Kiesling begins at 2:10 p.m. in the auditorium and is free to all ticketholders.

Tickets are $41/$35/$27, with discounted rates of $39/$33/$27 for senior citizens and $22/$19/$15 for students. They can be ordered online at www.adriansymphony.org; by calling 517-264-3121; at the orchestra’s offices in Mahan Hall, Adrian College, during business hours; or at the door beginning one hour before the concert.

The program begins with Flagello’s 2023 work “Bravado.” It’s the second work the ASO has performed by this composer, after “Vitality” two seasons ago, and inspired the concert’s title, “Bravo Bravado.”

“Vitality” and “Bravado” were each written for some of the country’s premier summer music programs for advanced students — “Vitality” for the 2022 Aspen

Gala Flagello, whose work “Bravado” will kick off the Adrian Symphony Orchestra’s Nov. 16 concert, will introduce the piece at the concert and also speak to the ASO’s New Music Society earlier in the week.

Music Festival orchestral readings and “Bravado” for the 2023 Tanglewood Music Festival readings.

According to the composer herself, “Bravado” explores the various connotations of that word itself: bold or reckless, daring or arrogant, confident or overbearing.

See SYMPHONY, page D4

IN BRIEF

Pastel artist Tom Tomasek featured at

ACA Gallery

ADRIAN — The Adrian Center for the Arts Gallery is featuring the work of pastel artist Tom Tomasek, whose landscape works depict water, land and sky, through Nov. 23.

Tomasek will also be teaching a workshop on Nov. 18. Registration is requested.

The Adrian Center for the Arts is at 1375 N. Main St., on the campus of PlaneWave Instruments.

The gallery is open Thurdays through Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Adrian Center for the Arts plans annual Holiday Market

ADRIAN — The Adrian Center for the Arts will host its annual Holiday Market beginning Nov. 29, providing an opportunity for guests to purchase unique gifts created by dozens of local artists in a variety of media.

Ceramics, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, accessories and much more will be included in the market. On the first day — Saturday, Nov. 29 — the market will be open to the public from noon to 6 p.m.

Regular market hours will continue up until shortly before Christmas. For details, go to adriancenterforthearts.org or call 517-759-3005.

Woodworking institute announces 2026 schedule

ADRIAN — The Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute has announced its 2026 continuing education class schedule, featuring a range of courses in woodworking, design, and craft innovation.

This year’s roster includes internationally recognized artists such as:

n Woodturner Roberto Ferrer.

n Artist, sculptor, and furniture maker Scott Grove.

n International Wood Carver of the Year Alexander Grabovetskiy.

n Canadian artist Mike Sasaki.

Many of this year’s offerings are also approved by the American Institute of Architects for continuing education credits, providing professionals with an opportunity to expand their craft while meeting licensure requirements.

To view the 2026 catalog and register, visit www.sbwi.edu/learn-woodworking. For more information about SBWI and its programs, visit www.sbwi.edu/ woodworking-classes.

Athena Art Society hosts exhibit at Hickman Gallery

ADRIAN — The Athena Art Society will host its 2025 fall juried exhibit at the newly renovated Hickman Gallery in the Mahan Center for Art and Design at Adrian College through Dec. 3.

A free public reception will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Barbara Miner of the University of Toledo Department of Art is the juror for the exhibit.

The Athena Art Society was formed in 1903 in Toledo as a community of women artists. The nonprofit organization supports other organizations through partnerships, encourages young artists with a scholarship program, and enriches the art scene in the northwest Ohio region with their annual exhibitions.

Hickman Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Musical ‘Cinderella’ opens at the Croswell on Nov. 21

ADRIAN — A classic tale with a contemporary twist will open at the Croswell Opera House later this month when the theater stages Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.”

The show opens on Nov. 21 and runs for three weekends.

The music in the show was originally written for a 1957 TV presentation by composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist

Oscar Hammerstein II, the duo behind Broadway hits like “South Pacific,” “Carousel,” and “Oklahoma!”

Though this version includes Rodgers & Hammerstein’s music, the script was updated for a 2013 Broadway production by playwright and screenwriter Douglas Carter Beane.

Ally Szymanski of Adrian plays the title character, who is called “Ella” in Beane’s updated script. Szymanski previously played Emma Carew in

Symphony

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Flagello will introduce her work at the concert. Earlier in the week, she will speak to the ASO’s New Music Society prior to a rehearsal of the piece which the group’s members will attend and “get to see how the sausage is made, as it were,” Kiesling joked.

Over the years, he said, “we’ve done a nice job of building relationships with artists” who have returned for repeat performances with the ASO, and “now we get to do that with a composer.”

And having a composer able to be present for a performance of their work “brings music to life for our audience. It reminds them there’s music still being written for orchestras today.”

After Flagello’s short piece opens the concert, guest artist Rodolfo Leone will join the orchestra for a performance of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major.

Winner of several major international piano competitions, Leone has performed across the country and in countries including Austria, Germany, England, Italy, and China. He currently lives in Los Angeles.

Ravel’s concerto “is such a special piece,” Kiesling said. “It’s short, but it’s a little bit of everything.”

The composer finished it in 1931 and it premiered in 1932 with the pianist Marguerite Long, to whom Ravel dedicated the work.

“It really is super-fun,” Kiesling said, from the whip-crack sound that opens the piece through its very melodic second movement all the way to the fast — and virtuosic — final movement.

The concert’s second half features Sibelius’ Second Symphony, which the composer started writing while staying in a mountain villa in Italy at the prodding of an acquaintance who thought Sibelius needed the inspiration the location would bring him.

Coming on the heels of Sibelius’ very nationalistic work that thanks to

“Jekyll & Hyde” and the workaholic scientist Rachel in “Escape to Margaritaville.”

Ella’s stepmother and stepsisters are played by Kelly Frailly of Perrysburg, Ohio; Lily Gechter of Ypsilanti; and Sara Long of Ann Arbor. Angela Hench of Ypsilanti plays the fairy godmother role. Jonah Hiatt of Palmyra plays Ella’s friend, revolutionary Jean-Michel.

The role of Prince Charming, who in this telling of the story is named Topher, is played by Jared Freeman of Perrysburg, Ohio. The young prince’s adviser, Lord Chancellor Sebastian, is played by Stephen Kiersey of Adrian, with Joshua Egnatuk of Bowling Green, Ohio, as his assistant, Lord Pinkleton.

The production is directed by Ron Baumanis, with choreography by Sarah Nowak and vocal direction by Kristin Clark. The orchestra is conducted by Ray Novak.

The Croswell is at 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Tickets range from $26 to $46 for adults and $16 to $26 for youth and students, and may be ordered online at croswell.org.

Dates and times

n Friday, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, Nov. 22, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2:30 p.m.

n Friday, Nov. 28, at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, Nov. 29, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

n Sunday, Nov. 30, at 2:30 p.m.

n Thursday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m.

n Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The ensemble includes Zoelle Blackmon, Kylie Bushman, Derrick McCullough, Shannah Mutatu, Ashlee Pelham, Madelyn Stanley, and Briella York, all of Adrian; Renyuan Zhang of Ann Arbor; Mitchell LaRoy of Blissfield; AJ Landingham of Carleton; Austin Petrie of Cement City; Lucas Durling of Hudson; Serenity Sanders Gerrild of Jackson; Walter Book, Abigail Johnson and Timothy Johnson of Petersburg; Dylan Cunningham of Tecumseh; Maddie Burnham of Maumee, Ohio; Jocelyn Villagomez of Swanton, Ohio; and Ciara Lieberman of Sylvania, Ohio.

n Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m.

DATE AND TIME: Sunday, Nov. 16, at 3 p.m.

A Classical Conversation begins at 2:10 p.m.

LOCATION: Dawson Auditorium, Adrian College

TICKETS: $41/$35/$27 ($39/$33/$27 for seniors, $22/$19/$15 for students)

TO ORDER: 517-264-3121 or online at adriansymphony.org

this same acquaintance is known as “Finlandia,” the Second Symphony was popularly tied to Finland’s struggle for independence from Russia and even was dubbed the Symphony of Independence, although whether Sibelius himself meant it to be nationalistic has been debated ever since.

It debuted to mixed critical reviews, but great audience acclaim, in 1902 and used to be a regular part of the standard orchestral repertoire, although it’s performed less often today.

“Some of the players have told me they’re so excited to be doing it,” Kiesling said.

It’s a real challenge for musicians, especially the frenetic third movement that sets the stage for a regal, grand final movement. “The fourth movement is so spectacular,” he said. “It’s the real payoff after this journey you’ve been on.

“It’s really one of those [pieces] where you’re just swept along. So I love that quality, that it’s great for both players and audiences.”

And, given that the ASO spent the last couple of seasons focused on the music of Stravinsky and Copland, and then presented a pops concert to begin this season, it’s actually been some time since audiences got to hear the orchestra perform a symphony. “And this is a dinner plate-sized symphony,” Kiesling said.

“We’re glad to be starting the orchestral part of the season and it’s going to be a really great concert. The musicians are excited about it and so am I.”

Ally Szymanski “Ella”

Rodolfo Leone will join the Adrian Symphony Orchestra as the soloist on Maurice Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major. RODOLFOLEONE.COM

‘Bravo Bravado’

NOVEMBER

THINGS TO DO IN LENAWEE COUNTY

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Days of Mindfulness: Courage to Wait

Weber Retreat & Conference Center, 10 a.m.

Whether we are feeling agitated, restless, deeply upset, angered, we want to fire back some response. But if we can refrain from reacting quickly, we may discover some softness within that we are always trying to protect. Practicing patience helps us catch this softness we didn’t even know was there; it means learning to sit with this edgy, moody energy as it rises and until it passes away. This workshop is based on a reflection by Pema Chodron. Cost of $35 includes lunch; registration required.

1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org or 517-423-6617

Fall into Winter Craft Show

Blissfield American Legion, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free.

451 High St., Blissfield

Motown & More with Legacy

Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Known for electrifying performances combining powerhouse vocals with dazzling dance moves, the band Legacy brings spectacular tributes to legends of American music to the TCA stage. From the iconic sounds of 1960s Motown to R&B hits of the ’70s, ’80s and beyond, this concert is a nostalgic musical journey. Tickets $35 ($30 for seniors and military, $15 for students).

400 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh thetca.org or 517-423-6617

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Carnegie Libraries presentation

Lenawee Historical Museum, 6 p.m. Lenawee County Family Researchers presents a talk by Adam Oster of the Library of Michigan about Carnegie Libraries, which are libraries built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with money donated by businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The museum itself is a Carnegie library building. This is also Lenawee County Family Researchers’ November meeting. Questions can be sent to Judy Sheldon at judysheldon@yahoo.com. Free.

110 E. Church St., Adrian

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Line Dancing with Marsha Elliott Schultz-Holmes District Library, 6 p.m.

The library presents a line dancing class.

407 S. Lane St, Blissfield blissfieldlibrary.org or 517-486-2858

Kids’ Pie Bingo

Adrian District Library, 6:30 p.m.

For ages 5-17. A kids-only bingo event where winners can take home some tasty pies.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us or 517-265-2265

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7

Holiday Open House and Streetscape Lighting Ceremony

Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (lighting at 7 p.m.)

Step into a winter wonderland as Downtown Tecumseh transforms into Gingerbread Lane. A magical evening filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the official kickoff to the holiday season. Downtown merchants will compete in an Ugly Sweater Contest, and guests get to vote for the winner. The event also includes a recipe walk and a Holiday Night Market at The Market on Evans from 4-8 p.m. Continues Saturday. mytecumseh.org

Blissfield Yuletide Festival and Tree Lighting Downtown Blissfield, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Blissfield’s 51st annual Yuletide Festival fills the streets of downtown Blissfield with cheer. n 1-7 p.m.: Shop downtown Blissfield’s stores

To submit events for inclusion in this calendar, please email news@lenaweevoice.com by the 15th of the month before the event. SUGAR PLUM TEA 12:00 PM FRIDAY FRIDAY DECEMBER 12 7:00 PM SATURDAY SATURDAY DECEMBER 13 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM SUNDAY SUNDAY

Everyday Heroes Adrian Armory Event Center, 6 p.m.

Catherine Cobb Safe House will host its 10th annual Everyday Heroes dinner honoring individuals who have shown courage, kindness, and unselfish acts of heroism in the Lenawee County community. The public is welcome to attend and the cost is $75 per person.

230 W. Maumee St., Adrian catherinecobb.org or 517-265-6776

DECEMBER 14 2:00 PM

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Blissfield Yuletide Festival

Downtown Blissfield, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Blissfield’s 51st annual Yuletide Festival fills the streets of downtown Blissfield with cheer.

n 9-11 a.m.: Breakfast with Santa (ticketed event).

n 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Craft show at Blissfield Elementary School.

n 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Shop downtown Blissfield’s stores.

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Kindermarket featuring young crafters showcasing their talents at the Blissfield Village Office, 130 S. Lane St.

n Noon to 3 p.m.: Food fight. Support local groups for lunch as they compete to raise money at the event tent downtown.

n Noon to 4 p.m.: Santa’s Reindeer at the Depot Museum, 105 N. Lane St.

n 6-10 p.m.: Yuletide Cheer. Explore four exclusive tasting stations plus desserts from Emmy’s Kitchen (ticketed event).

Continues Sunday.

blissfieldmainstreet.com/yuletide

Blissfield Model Railroad Open House

Blissfield Model Railroad Club, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

See over 3,000 feet of model railroad track as it winds through 15 towns and representations of 54 industries, with several trains running at a time in this tribute to the role of railroads in American history. Free, but donations are appreciated.

109 E. Adrian St., Blissfield 517-486-0404

Holiday Open House

Downtown Tecumseh, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Step into a winter wonderland as Downtown Tecumseh transforms into Gingerbread Lane. mytecumseh.org

Fall Craft Show

The Mill Sports & Event Center, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Mill’s annual craft show. Admission $2 (cash only).

230 N. Main St., Onsted 517-467-5529

Indoor Carnival

Manitou Beach, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

An indoor carnival with snacks, games, crafts and more, hosted by Just a-Craftin’ — Designs by Kristie and Just a Lil Sweet Tooth. Free.

129 Devil’s Lake Hwy., Manitou Beach

Holiday Open House & Artisan’s Market

The Stacy Mansion, 1-6 p.m.

Exclusive home tour of the Stacy Mansion’s first floor; local artisan vendors offering one of a kind gifts; refreshments available for purchase. $10 VIP admission; $5 general admission.

710 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh www.thestacymannsion.com 517-858-9708

Gratitude, Grace & Creative Flow

Ang & Company, 2-4 p.m.

A cozy afternoon in the basement during Sip & Shop that blends mindfulness, movement, and creativity to welcome the season of gratitude. The event begins with a calming gratitude meditation and gentle yoga flow led by Heather Williams, then transitions into painting your own autumn door hanger while enjoying seasonal drinks. $45.

141 N. Lakeview Blvd., Manitou Beach angandco.net

Cash Bash

Onsted American Legion, 6 p.m.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Prizes range from $100 to $2,500; need not be present to win. $75.

333 Connor St., Onsted 517-606-8199

Maumee Street Jam

First Presbyterian Church, 6 p.m.

An acoustic music jam for instruments such as dulcimer, guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, whistle, accordion, fiddle, harmonica, marimba, bones and more meets on the second Saturday of every month, September through May, at First Presbyterian Church in Adrian. Enter through the side door.

156 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-270-2870

NIGHT LITES CHRISTMAS DRIVE THRU

Michigan International Speeway presents its annual drive-through Christmas light show with more than 6 miles of lights.

November 21 to January 4

Sunday through Thursday, 5:30-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5:30-10 p.m.

Michigan International Speedway 12626 U.S. 12, Brooklyn

More info: nitelitesshow.com

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Blissfield Yuletide Festival

Downtown Blissfield, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Blissfield’s 51st annual Yuletide Festival fills the streets of downtown Blissfield with cheer.

n 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Kindermarket featuring young crafters showcasing their talents at the Blissfield Village Office, 130 S. Lane St.

n 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Shop downtown Blissfield’s stores.

n 1:30 to 4 p.m.: Brunch ’n Bingo (ticketed event).

blissfieldmainstreet.com/yuletide

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11

Veterans and Active Military Dinner

Durkee-Seager Unit 550 American Legion Auxiliary, 5 p.m.

Veterans and active military eat free in honor of Veterans Day. Service starts at 5 p.m. and lasts until the food is gone. Free for all veterans and current servicemembers.

333 Conner St, Onsted 517-467-2197 or alaunit550@gmail.com

Family Movie Night: ‘Smurfs’ Adrian District Library, 6-8 p.m.

A free family movie.

143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us or 517-265-2265

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13

Dungeons & Dragons for Young Adventurers

Tecumseh District Library, 3-5 p.m. Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons. No prior knowledge is expected and all are welcome. This program is designed for players from ages 10-15. Free, but registration is required. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh tecumsehlibrary.org or 517-423-2238

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Stoneware Workshop

Clay It Forward, 10 a.m.

For this workshop, participants will glaze their own pre-selected stoneware ceramic pieces with a variety of glazes. Pre-registration required; cost depends on stoneware selection. 210 S. Evans St., Tecumseh clayitforwardmi.com or 517-500-3170

Lunch and Learn:

Weber Gift Shop Open House

Weber Center, 12:15 p.m.

Katherine Dusseau, shop manager, will share what’s new at the Weber Center’s gift shop. Bring your lunch (drinks and dessert provided) or purchase lunch from Weber Center for $8 (choice of egg salad, turkey and cheese or chicken croissant sandwich with chips) by registering at least two days in advance. 1257 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian webercenter.org or 517-423-6617

Shop and stroll

Downtown Adrian

Gift the gift of local this holiday season. Visit downtown Adrian to purchase Downtown Dollars and support local businesses.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Vendor Event

Morenci Event Center, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop local vendors and support the Morenci Town & Country Festival fireworks display.

139 W. Main St., Morenci

Adrian Symphony Orchestra: ‘Bravo Bravado’ Dawson Auditorium, 3 p.m.

A bold and expressive program brimming with color, power, and lyrical beauty. The concert begins with Gala Flagello’s “Bravado,” a spirited work that opens the door to Ravel’s sparkling Piano Concerto in G, performed by acclaimed pianist Rodolfo Leone. The concert culminates in Sibelius’s majestic Symphony No. 2. $41/$35/27 (with discounts for seniors and students).

240 S. Charles St., Adrian adriansymphony.org 517-264-3121

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17

Photos with Santa Align Center for Workforce Development, noon to 4 p.m.

Enjoy photos with Santa and treats at the Align Center. Free.

440 E. Church St., Adrian alignlenawee.org or 517-270-4580

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Dungeons & Dragons for Young Adventurers

Tecumseh District Library, 3-5 p.m.

Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons. No prior knowledge is expected and all are welcome. This program is designed for players from ages 10-15. Free, but registration is required.

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

Third Thursday Live Music

Downtown Adrian, 5-8 p.m.

Enjoy live music downtown on the third Thursday of every month.

Quarter-Mania

LISD Tech Center, 5:30 p.m.

Bring your quarters and support the Lenawee County FFA Alumni Scholarship fund.

Auction starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5 and includes one paddle; additional paddles are $2 each.

1372 N. Main St., Adrian 517-403-2387

Bring Your Own Talent Night

The Buzz Cafe and Marketplace, 6-8 p.m.

The Buzz presents a monthly open mic night in collaboration with Above Pete’s Garage.

110 E. Maumee St., Adrian 517-759-3289 or the buzzadrian.com

‘White Christmas’ Lenawee Christian School, 7 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit with the timeless classic “White Christmas,” performed by LCS students. $15 ($13 for students).

111 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian lenawee.org or 517-265-7590

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21

‘White Christmas’

Lenawee Christian School, 7 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit with the timeless classic “White Christmas,” performed by LCS students. $15 ($13 for students).

111 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian lenawee.org or 517-265-7590

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

Opening night for the Croswell’s holiday show. This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Saturday, Sunday and the following two weekends.

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

‘The Outsiders’

Adrian High School. 7:30 p.m.

A musical based on the book by S.E. Hinton, presented by the Adrian High School theater program. gofan.co/app/school/MI4008_1

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

45th Annual Sand Creek Antique and Craft Show

Sand Creek Schools, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Shop more than 250 booths, plus silent auction, grand prize giveaway, and more. All of the proceeds from this event benefit Sand Creek students through the funding of staff minigrants. Admission $3. 6518 Sand Creek Hwy., Sand Creek 517-436-3124 sandcreek.craftshow@gmail.com

Book Sale

Lenawee District Library

9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

4459 West U.S. 223, Adrian lenawee.lib.mi.us or 517-263-1011

Gingerbread House Decorating Day

Adrian District Library, 12:30 p.m.

Get a head start on the Adrian District Library’s 22nd annual Gingerbread House Contest. All supplies provided; please register in advance. 143 E. Maumee St., Adrian adrian.lib.mi.us or 517-265-2265

‘White Christmas’

Lenawee Christian School, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit with the timeless classic “White Christmas,” performed by LCS students. $15 ($13 for students).

111 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian lenawee.org or 517-265-7590

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Sunday and the following two weekends.

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

Cupcake Decorating party

Manitou Beach, 5-7 p.m.

Decorate cupcakes with Mrs. Claus at this event hosted and sponsored by Just a-Craftin’ — Designs by Kristie and Just a Lil Sweet Tooth. $5.

129 Devil’s Lake Hwy., Manitou Beach

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Benefit film night:

‘North Country Opera’

The Holler Barn, 5:30 p.m.

A Benefit for Friends of Watkins Lake. Suggested donation $25. 11811 Beech Road, Brooklyn friendsofwatkinslake.my.canva.site sybil.kolon@gmail.com

Toys for Tots Dance

Blissfield American Legion, 7-11 p.m.

A joint fundraiser between Chico’s Cinco de Mayo and Lenawee County Toys for Tots, with both projects sharing the proceeds. Live music by La Nueva Onda. Admission is either $10, or $5 plus an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. For more information, contact Bobbi De La Cruz at 517-215-2350.

451 High St., Blissfield

‘The Outsiders’

Adrian High School, 7:30 p.m.

A musical presented by the Adrian High School theater program. gofan.co/app/school/MI4008_1

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues the following two weekends.

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

‘The Outsiders’

Adrian High School, 2:30 p.m.

A musical presented by the Adrian High School theater program. gofan.co/app/school/MI4008_1

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Shoulder Pets: Crafting for Teens Tecumseh Center for the Arts, 11:15 a.m. Join Megan Rapp-Frye on a half-day for Tecumseh Public Schools as she teaches participants to make their own Shoulder Pets. All materials and instruction are free, and light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh tecumsehlibrary.org

517-423-2238

Pie Bingo

Adrian District Library, 6:30 p.m.

Play bingo for a chance to take home a tasty pie for the holiday. Registration required. adrian.lib.mi.us

517-265-2265

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Saturday, Sunday and next weekend.

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

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

Small Business Saturday

Various locations, all day

Locally owned businesses in communities across Lenawee County will be open for shopping on Small Business Saturday. Support the small businesses that make up the backbone of the local economy!

Writing Workshop: Anticipating Holidays

Weber Retreat & Conference Center, 1 p.m.

This workshop will explore both our anticipation of holidays and our memories of holidays past, noting how each affects the other. For both beginning and experienced writers. $35; registration required. webercenter.org

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Sunday and next weekend.

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

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues next weekend.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

‘Cinderella’

Croswell Opera House, 7:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Saturday and Sunday (no show on Friday).

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

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5

Holiday Light Parade

Downtown Adrian, 6 p.m.

Adrian First Fridays includes the annual holiday light parade through downtown.

Comstock Christmas Riverwalk lighting

Comstock Park, 8 p.m.

Watch as Adrian’s Comstock Christmas Riverwalk is illuminated, filling the park with the beauty of more than 500 trees and shimmering lights reflected in the River Raisin.

263 W. Maumee St., Adrian

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Tim “T” Cagle Memorial Kookin 4 Kids

Fundraiser BBQ & Silent Auction

Adrian Eagles, 3 p.m.

This fundraiser to help provide a merry Christmas for Lenawee County youth includes an all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet for $20 (kids 10 and under eat for free), plus a silent auction and door prizes.

2570 W. Beecher Road, Adrian

Third Annual PTO Craft Show

Adrian High School, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Featuring jewelry, home decor, baked goods, candles, spirit wear, wreaths, food trucks, blankets, and more. $3 admission. All proceeds benefit programs of the Adrian High School and Adrian Middle School PTO. Contact coordinator Jenniffer Blohm at 517-403-9299 or 180nutritionadrian@gmail.com. 745 Riverside Drive, Adrian

Christmas Fair

The Clinton Inn, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Step inside the historic Clinton Inn for their annual Christmas Fair. Shop a curated selection of handmade gifts, festive décor, and holiday treats from talented local artisans and makers. This family-friendly indoor market is the perfect place to support local talent and check off your holiday shopping list in a cozy, small-town setting. Free admission. 104 W. Michigan Ave., Clinton theclintoninn.com 517-507-5777

‘Cinderella’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Continues Sunday.

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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

‘Cinderella’ Croswell Opera House, 2:30 p.m.

This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein. Adults $46/$36/$26, students $26/$22/$16. Final performance.

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11

Athena Aid Hills of Lenawee Golf Club, 5:30 p.m. Athena Lenawee is collecting personal hygiene items and diapers for local nonprofits, such as Catherine Cobb, Fishes and Loaves, and The Daily Bread at their 2025 Athena Aid. RSVP to Licia Willnow at lwillnow@cliftauto. com by Dec. 3. Suggested donation $20. 110 Country Club Road, Adrian athenalenawee.org

LIVE MUSIC AT BARS AND NIGHT SPOTS

Information in this listing is taken from a mixture of submissions and information published by the venues. We recommend verifying information before making plans. To submit listings, email lcline@lenaweevoice. com before the 15th of the preceding month.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Tom Petty Tribute by Teddy Petty & The Refugees, 8-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

The Metros, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher Road, Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7

Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute by Proud Mary, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Bob Seger Tribute by Katmandu, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Eagles Tribute by Motown Eagles, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Linny & Moochie, 7 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Girls Night Out: The Show, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

On the Rocks, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher Road, Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Dueling Pianos with Twilight Tunes, 4-7 p.m., Gauci Golf Resort, 8431 Sports Park Drive, Onsted.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21

The Phoenix Theory, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

AC/DC Tribute by ThunderStruck with Roxxy Wild, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Your Generation performs at Chateau Aeronautique on Thanksgiving weekend.

Comedy Night with five comedians and J-Man’s Live DJ and the Drunken Masters of Comedy, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher Road, Adrian. $15 cover in advance; $20 at the door.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26

DJ John Hess, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher, Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.

Frankly Jack with Frank McGlynn from Mobile Dueling Pianos, 8 p.m., Two Lakes Tavern, 110 Walnut St, Manitou Beach. FiftyAmpFuse, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery. com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28

Your Generation, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery. com.

Comedy Night with Tommy Cook & Friends, 7:30-10 p.m., Farver’s at the Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

Queen Tribute by Simply Queen, 7-10 p.m., Chateau Aeronautique Winery, 12000 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Tickets at chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Jaded Soul, 8 p.m. to midnight, Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher, Adrian. $5 cover for non-members.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Wishing Well, 8 p.m. to midnight, The Brick Wall, 114 W. Maumee St., Adrian.

LENAWEE COUNTY MARCHING BAND EXHIBITION

Musicians from 11 Lenawee County high schools, along with the Adrian College marching band, came together for the Lenawee County Band Directors Association’s annual Marching Band Exhibition on Oct. 7 at Adrian College’s Docking Stadium. The exhibition has been a tradition for more than 75 years. Following individual performances by each band, all 12 schools came together for a group number, with more than 600 students taking to the field under the baton of Adrian College director of bands Dan Kesterke. See more photos at lenaweevoice.com

Color guard member Morgan Hill gets ready to perform with the Clinton High School marching band during the Lenawee County Marching Band Exhibition at Adrian College.

Drum major Natalia Rosas conducts the Adrian High School marching band during the Lenawee County Marching Band Exhibition on Oct. 7.

Kalie Meyer with the Addison High School color guard performs during the marching band exhibition.

Color Guard captain Morgan Szymchack performs with the Onsted High School marching band.

Members of the Sand Creek marching band give a disco-themed performance during the marching band exhibition.

Members of the Hudson High School band take part in the Oct. 7 Lenawee County Marching Band Exhibition at Adrian College.

Performing with the Britton Deerfield marching band during the Lenawee County Marching Band Exhibition are Kurina Dotson, Allie Fraley, Liz Kaye, Olivia Guenther, Russell Scott, and Jaylynn Spence.

PHOTOS BY ERIK GABLE

Performing with the Tecumseh High School marching band, from front to back, are Noelle Kulhanjian, Ava Dugas, Rachel Meixner, Kellie Fahey, Alyssa Eder, Ciel Stolberg, Alyson Miller, and Lilly Frost.

Onsted Middle School eighth-grader and sideline percussionist Molly Stoos waits for her entrance during the Lenawee County Marching Band Showcase.

Hayden Bays and Abbagail Bauer perform with the Morenci High School band.

Drum major Cameron Face is pictured with the Madison High School band during the Lenawee County Marching Band Exhibition on Oct. 7 at Adrian College.

Trumpet player Cayden Underhill performs with the Adrian High School marching band during the Lenawee County Band Directors Association showcase.

Performing with the Blissfield High School band are Lucas Clark, Kennady Beilstein, Anita Atkinson, and Izzie Medley.

This Month in Downtown Adrian:

November

First Friday - Home for the Holidays

Friday, November 7th

Kick off the holiday season in Downtown Adrian! Join us for First Friday: Home for the Holidays — a festive evening of shopping, cheer, and community spirit. Explore downtown’s cozy shops, and find unique gifts!

Shop and Stroll- Downtown Dollars Kick Off

Saturday, November 15th

Give the gift of local this holiday season! Stop by Downtown Adrian during Shop & Stroll Saturday to purchase Downtown Dollars — the perfect way to support small businesses and share the spirit of shopping local all season long.

Third Thursday- Live Music

Thursday, November 20th

Downtown Adrian comes alive this Third Thursday with live music filling your favorite local spots! Grab some friends, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak up the sounds of talented local musicians all around downtown. It’s the perfect midweek vibe!

Pink Friday

Friday, November 21st

Shop small before Black Friday and show your love for local businesses! Join us for Pink Friday, a day to celebrate and support the amazing downtown shops that make our community shine. Find unique gifts, enjoy special deals, and kick off the holiday season in style!

Small Business Saturday

Saturday, November 29th

Celebrate the heart of our community by shopping small this Small Business Saturday! Explore your favorite downtown shops, discover unique finds, and support the local businesses that make Adrian special. Every purchase makes a big difference!

First Friday- Winder Wonderland/ Comstock

Christmas

Tree Lighting

Friday, December 5th

Join us in Downtown Adrian for a magical evening filled with holiday cheer! Enjoy the festive parade, the beautiful Christmas tree lighting at Comstock Park, and plenty of merry activities for the whole family.

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