New director on the job at Morenci Senior Center — PAGE 9 Morenci’s annual Back-to-School Bash is Wednesday, Aug. 13 — PAGE 10
ADVOCATE
MORENCI, MICHIGAN
Silver Creek Bridge Walk will return on Labor Day
MORENCI — The Mackinac Bridge may have the most famous Labor Day bridge walk in the state, but Michigan’s southernmost city offers a bridge walk too.
The 31st annual Silver Creek Bridge Walk will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, on the historic truss bridge at the Michigan-Ohio border in Morenci. This fun, tongue-in-cheek tradition offers a lighthearted alternative to the five-mile Mackinac Bridge Walk up north, and serves as a celebration of community. It is organized by the Kiwanis Club of Morenci.
This year’s walk will benefit the Morenci Food Bank, which serves more than 175 people each month. Participants are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food donation to help support local families in need.
The event includes a short and scenic walk across the 81-foot pedestrian bridge. It also features a 60-second open mic for local leaders and guests who would like to say a few words. A free hot dog lunch will be provided by the Kiwanis Club, and commemorative T-shirts will be available for purchase at the event.
Immediately following the walk, the Kiwanis Club will hold a Golf Ball Drop Fundraiser Raffle in partnership with the Morenci Fire Department. Golf balls will be dropped from the department’s bucket truck, and the first three to land in the designated holes will win prizes. First place receives $250, second place receives $100, and third place receives $50. Golf balls are $20 each, and only 150 are available. Participants do not need to be present to win. All proceeds support Kiwanis of Morenci’s mission to help youth in the community. To enter, see any Kiwanian or stop by Engler, Garrow & Roth in downtown Morenci.
4-H AT THE FAIR
Nash Ekins, a member of the Medina Pioneers 4-H club, shows his dairy cow at the Lenawee County Fair. For coverage of 4-H activities at this year’s fair, please turn to page A3. LINDA CLINE/MORENCI ADVOCATE
Coach aims to reinvigorate cross country program PAGE 11 FREE
Council considers changing City Hall hours
By Erik Gable The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — The city of Morenci is considering a change to the hours that City Hall is open.
City Hall is currently open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. City clerk and superintendent Jeff Bell said those hours have been in place since 2014.
However, traffic near the end of the day is light, and some residents have been requesting Friday hours, so the city council is considering a change. At their July 14 meeting, council members discussed the possibility of City Hall being open from Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except for a lunch hour from noon to 1 p.m., for a six-month trial period. Council members reviewed data from 94,922 transactions at the counter over the course of 12 years. According to those records, the busiest time is during the 10 a.m. hour, with 13.9% of counter transactions being conducted between 10 and 11 a.m. Mornings are the busiest time overall.
Vendor registration now open for Morenci’s Fall Fest
MORENCI — Vendor registration is now open for the fourth annual Fall Fest, which is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4 in downtown Morenci.
Hosted by the Downtown Development Authority, Fall Fest is the largest downtown event of the year. From 4 to 7 p.m., Main Street will be lined with local makers, bakers, farmers, businesses, and organizations showcasing their goods and services. The cost for merchant booths is $25. Booth spaces are 10 feet by 10 feet and setup begins at 2:30 p.m.
Applications for vendor space are due by Monday, Sept. 15.
Nonprofits hosting a free activity and distributing community information are invited to participate at no cost.
Registration forms are available online at cityofmorenci.org or can be picked up at City Hall. For more information, contact DDA director Heather Sarnac at 517-429-0100 or heather.sarnac@cityofmorenci.org.
City Hall from page 1
There’s still plenty of activity in midafternoon, but transactions start to fall off after 4 p.m., and very few people come in between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., with only 4.4% of transactions being conducted then. Overall, the 5 p.m. hour has the least traffic out of any hour of the day.
Of people who come in between 4 and 5 p.m., the vast majority come in during the first half-hour, and the same is true of people who come in between 5 and 6 p.m.
“After 5:30, very rarely do you get someone,” Bell said.
The council also reviewed information about the eight other Lenawee County municipalities that offer 40 hours a week of service. Three out of those eight other municipalities are open four days per week like Morenci.
Council members were open to the idea of a change, but decided they wanted more discussion before deciding on a course of action.
Mayor Tracy Schell said she received feedback that it would be useful to have one day per week when City Hall is open earlier and one day when it’s open later, to accommodate people whose schedules don’t allow them to come in during typical business hours.
And council member Diane Molitierno said she doesn’t like the idea of being closed for lunch, noting that for many residents, the lunch hour is a convenient time to take care of personal business.
The council voted to table the issue and send it back to the finance and legal committee for further discussion.
Equipment purchase for cemetery OK’d
MORENCI — At its July meeting, the Morenci City Council approved the purchase of a Bad Boy brand miniexcavator from Bill’s Service of Blissfield in the amount of $47,086.
City superintendent and clerk Jeff Bell reported that Department of Public Works staff had investigated options from three different manufacturers — Bad Boy, Kubota, and John Deere. The
Bids awarded for projects at Morenci Fire department
MORENCI — Bids for two projects at the Morenci fire station were awarded at the July 14 city council meeting.
The budget for the current fiscal year includes two projects: repainting of the overhead doors and upgrades to the training room.
The contract for overhead door repainting was awarded to Jediah Hall of Five Points Painting in the amount of $2,197.
The contract for training upgrades was awarded to Valentine Construction in the amount of $10,500. This contract does not include the electronics that will be part of the upgrade project.
In both cases, the contract went to the lowest bidder.
DPW staff said that, independent of pricing, the Bad Boy mini-excavator would be their first choice due to its horsepower and ease of maintenance, among other factors. So when that option also came in at the lowest price, that clinched the decision.
Bell noted that although the miniexcavator is primarily being purchased for the cemetery, it has attachments
that can allow it to be used for other purposes in the city, such as plowing the downtown sidewalks in the winter and even doing some driveway grading.
“It’s really a versatile piece of equipment, but the majority of its time will be spent out at the cemetery,” he said.
The purchase will be financed through TLC Community Credit Union.
Residents can apply for help with home repairs,
MORENCI — Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee will bring its Rock the Block event to Morenci on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 12–13. This neighborhood improvement effort will focus on exterior home repairs and yard work in the Stephenson Park area, including S. Summit, Oak, E. Stephenson, S. East, and LaGrange Streets.
The event brings together homeowners, renters, volunteers, and community sponsors for a weekend of revitalization. Under the guidance of Habitat’s construction staff, volunteers will complete exterior home repairs, weatherization, and cleanup activities such as house and porch painting, porch or step repairs, ramp construction, power washing, landscaping, gutter cleaning, and more.
yard work
Eligible homeowners in the targeted area may apply for these services for a flat fee of $10. The application deadline is August 15. To apply or get more details, contact Reyna at reyna@habitat-lenawee. org or 517-265-6157.
Volunteers are needed to help complete the work, and can work one day or both. To volunteer, contact Carrie Hartley at chartley@habitat-lenawee.org.
Area 4-H youth shine at county fair
People go to county fairs for many reasons. Some go for the rides, some for the food, some for events like tractor pulls and demolition derbies. Still others go to listen to live music, browse the merchant displays, or just walk around and take in the sights.
But the living, breathing heart of any county fair is 4-H.
The largest youth development program in the country, 4-H — whose name comes from its original motto, “head, heart, hands, and health” — dates to the early 20th century and has been established in Lenawee County since 1914.
Every year at the Lenawee County Fair, 4-H youth showcase their skills in disciplines like animal breeding, showmanship, arts and crafts, and more.
The following listings were provided by Lenawee County 4-H. Repeated names represent multiple honors won by the exhibitor in that category. Please report any errors or omissions to news@ lenaweevoice.com to be corrected and included in our September issue.
LIVESTOCK JUDGING
Junior
Eloise Terry, South Riga Go-Getters
Intermediate
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Sophie Smith, Tipton Jets
Senior
Kamryn Billings, Lenawee FFA
BEEF BREEDING
Grand Champion
Commercial/Cross
Ryan Good, Britton-Macon Reserve Champion
Commercial/Cross
Eloise Terry, South Riga Go-Getters Grand Champion AOB
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers Champion Showman
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers Reserve Champion Showman
Ryan Good, Britton-Macon Overall Supreme Champion Animal
Ryan Good, Britton-Macon Reserve Overall Supreme Champion Animal
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers
DAIRY FEEDER COSTUME CONTEST
Jemma Christian, Quaker Willing Workers
Evan Gould, a member of the State Line Hustlers 4-H club and a student at Morenci High School, takes part in the senior showman competition for swine. JENNIFER GOULD
Ellie Bolenbaugh of the Medina Pioneers 4-H club.
Brantley Root of the Medina Pioneers with his dairy cow. CHAD ROOT
Maddie Taylor of the State Line Hustlers 4-H club exhibits her swine at the Lenawee County Fair. STEPHANIE TAYLOR
DAIRY
Junior Heifer Calf Brown Swiss
Jacob Caplon, Tipon Jets
Junior Heifer Calf Holstein
Sadie Whelan, Tipton Jets
Junior Heifer Calf Jersey
Daylin Pearce, Shooters Inc.
Intermediate Heifer Calf Holstein
Jase Whelan, Tipton Jets
Senior Heifer Calf Holstein
Lillian Root, Medina Pioneers
Summer Yearling Heifer Holstein
Blake Root, Medina Pioneers
Summer Yearling Heifer Jersey
Julianna Kurutz, Lenawee Rascals
Junior Heifer Yearling Jersey
Cory Hoover, Medina Pioneers
Junior Champion Female
Brown Swiss
Jacob Caplon, Tipton Jets
Junior Champion Female Jersey
Daylin Pearce, Tipton Jets
Junior Champion Female Holstein
Sadie Whelan, Tipton Jets
Reserve Junior Champion
Female Jersey
Julianna Kurutz, Lenawee Rascals
Reserve Junior Champion
Female Holstein
Jase Whelan, Tipton Jets
Jr. 2-Year-Old Cow Jersey
Sophie Smith, Tipton Jets
3-Year-Old Cow Jersey
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Aged Cow Jersey
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Senior Champion Female Jersey
Sophie Smith, Tipton Jets
Reserve Senior Champion Female Jersey
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Female Holstein
Sadie Whelan, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Female Jersey
Sophie Smith, Tipton Jets
Reserve Grand Champion Female Holstein
Jase Whelan, Tipton Jets
Reserve Grand Champion Female Jersey
Daylin Pearce, Shooters Inc. Cow & 1-Offspring Jersey
Natalie/Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Supreme Champion Dairy Animal
Sadie Whelan, Tipton Jets
Reserve Supreme Champion Dairy
Animal
Jase Whelan, Tipton Jets
Club Herd
Tipton Jets
Senior Showmanship
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Intermediate Showmanship
Blake Root, Medina Pioneers
Junior Showmanship
Jase Whelan, Tipton Jets
Champion Showman
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Pee Wee Showmanship
Wyat Racine, Tipton Jets
DAIRY FEEDER
Champion Dairy Feeder Calf
Ashton Platt, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Dairy Feeder
Calf
Trevor Lakatos, Quaker Willing Workers
Junior Showman
McKenna Corona, Quaker Willing Workers
Intermediate Showman
Gabrielle Maurer, Britton-Macon
Senior Showman
Karter Keil, Quaker Willing Workers
Overall Champion Showman
Gabrielle Maurer, Britton-Macon
Reserve Champion Showman
Caleb Glinski, Palmyra Future Leaders
GOATS
Grand Champion Dairy Meat
MaryOlive Caplon, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Dairy Meat
Violet Caplon, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Boer Meat
Ellie Woodring, Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Boer Meat
Evan Gould, State Line Hustlers
Junior Showman
Ethan Coblentz, South Riga Go-Getters
Intermediate Showman
Jacob Caplon, Tipton Jets
Senior Showman
Ella Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Overall Champion Showman
Ella Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Grand Champion Pygmy
Abyona Freeman, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Pygmy
David Bauer, Fairfield 4-H
Grand Champion Boer
Ethan Coblentz, South Riga Go-Getters
Reserve Champion Boer
Rylee Coblentz, South Riga Go-Getters
Grand Champion Alpine
Ella Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Reserve Champion Alpine
Nova Rock, Medina Pioneers
Grand Champion LaMancha
Nova Rock, Medina Pioneers
Reserve Champion LaMancha
Levi Osgood, Palmyra Future Leaders
Grand Champion Nubian
Grace Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Reserve Champion Nubian
MaryOlive Caplon, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Saanen, Toggenburg, Oberhasli
Madyson Fowler, Not So Boring
Reserve Champion Saanen, Toggenburg, Oberhasli
Abbagail Bauer, Fairfield 4-H
Grand Champion Nigerian Dwarf
MaryOlive Caplon, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Nigerian Dwarf
Abigail Brockway, Ponies Inc.
HORSE & PONY SHOWMANSHIP
Champion Versatility Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Reserve Champion Versatility Horse/Pony
Elizabeth Justice, Tecumseh Equestrians
Champion Fitting & Showing Horse/Pony
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Reserve Champion Fitting & Showing Horse/Pony
Denae Covey, All Around Equestrians
HORSE & PONY (MONDAY)
Champion Registered AQHA
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Reserve Champion Registered AQHQ Horse
Madalyn Kay, Ribbon Chasers
Champion Grade Horse at Halter
Macie Drugalis, Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Grade Horse at Halter
Maggie Myers, All Around Equestrians
Champion Fine Horse at Halter
Serenity Johnson, Dream Riders
Reserve Champion Fine Horse at Halter
Piper Slovinski, Dream Riders
Champion Other Registered Horse at Halter
Avery Gawronski, Rome Blue Ribbons
Reserve Champion Other
Registered Horse at Halter
Miranda Parker, Haydayz
Champion Mini Registered Horse at Halter
Tory Floer, Haydays
Reserve Champion Mini Registered Horse at Halter
Alaina Parker, Haydayz
Champion Mini Grade Horse at Halter
Lily Bales, Lenawee Legends
Reserve Champion Mini Grade Horse at Halter
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Grand Champion Mini Horse
Tory Floer, Haydayz
Reserve Grand Champion Mini Horse
Alaina Parker, Haydayz
Champion Registered Pony at Halter
Sawyer Calvin, Them Crazy Country Kidz
Champion Grade Pony at Halter
Grace Hembree, Them Crazy Country Kidz
Reserve Champion Grade Pony at Halter
Jordan Stuck, Quaker Willing Workers
Grand Champion Horse at Halter
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Reserve Grand Champion Horse at Halter
Maddie Kay, Ribbon Chasers
Grand Champion Pony at Halter
Calvin Sawyer, Them Crazy Country Kidz
Reserve Grand Champion Pony at Halter
Grace Hembree, Them Crazy Country Kidz
HORSE (TUESDAY) CONTESTING
Champion Contesting Horse
Lillian Bear, Serenity Equestrians
Elizabeth Justice, Tecumseh Equestrians Reserve Champion Contesting Horse
Kaitlyn Holly, Haydayz
HORSE & TUESDAY TRAIL
Champion Trail Horse/Pony
Peyton Luck, Ribbon Chasers Reserve Champion Trail Horse/Pony
Denae Covey, All Around Equestrians
Champion Mini Trail Horse
Kimberly Sharp, Haydayz
Reserve Champion Mini Trail Horse
Tory Floer, Haydayz
4-H HORSE & PONY
Champion English Pleasure Horse/Pony
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Reserve Champion English Pleasure Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Champion English Equitation Horse/Pony
Tory Floer, Haydayz Reserve Champion English Equitation Horse/Pony
Madalyn Kay, Ribbon Chasers
Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony
Hope Puckett, Stable Stars
Reserve Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony
Tessa Williams, Serenity Riders
Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/Pony
Piper Slovinski, Dream Riders Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/Pony
Serenity Johnson, Dream Riders
Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony
Hope Puckett, Stable Stars
Champion Mini Horse In Hand Jumper
Kimberly Sharp, Haydayz Reserve Champion Mini Horse In Hand Jumper
Sadie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
HORSE & PONY CONTESTING (WEDNESDAY)
Champion Contesting Miniature Horse
Kimberly Sharp, Haydays Reserve Champion Miniature Horse
Tory Floer, Haydayz
HORSE & PONY (WEDNESDAY)
Champion English Pleasure Horse/ Pony
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons Reserve Champion English Pleasure Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Champion English Equitation Horse/ Pony
Tory Floer, Haydayz Reserve Champion English Equitation Horse/Pony
Madalyn Kay, Ribbon Chasers
Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony
Hope Puckett, Stable Stars
Reserve Champion English Bareback Equitation Horse/Pony
Tessa Williams, Serenity Riders
Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/Pony
Piper Slovinski, Dream Riders Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Pleasure Horse/Pony
Serenity Johnson, Dream Riders
Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers Reserve Champion Saddle Seat Equitation Horse/Pony
Hope Puckett, Stable Stars Champion Mini Horse In Hand Jumper
Kimberly Sharp, Haydayz Reserve Champion Mini Horse In Hand Jumper
Sadie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
HORSE (THURSDAY)
Champion Western Pleasure
Paige Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons Reserve Champion Western Pleasure
Serenity Johnson, Dream Riders Champion Western Equitation
Peyton Luck, Ribbon Chasers Reserve Champion Western Equitation
Denae Covey, All Around Equestrians
Champion Bareback Equitation
Maddie Kay, Ribbon Chasers Reserve Champion Bareback Equitation
Isabella Schilz, Cowboy U
Champion Ranch Pleasure
Colton Morton, Haydayz
Reserve Champion Ranch Pleasure
Ella Naebeck, Haydayz
Champion Ranch Riding
Ella Naebeck, Haydayz
Reserve Champion Ranch Riding Lucas Halmekangas, Ponies Inc.
HORSE (SATURDAY)
Champion Versatility Horse/Pony
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Reserve Champion Versatility Horse/Pony
Elizabeth Justice, Tecumseh Equestrians
POULTRY
Junior Showman
Caleb Bailey, Country Clovers
Intermediate Showman
Gabriel Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Senior Showman
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Overall Champion Showman
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Reserve Champion Showman
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Champion Duck
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Duck
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Champion Goose
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Goose
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Champion Large Fowl
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Large Fowl
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Champion Bantam
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Reserve Champion Bantam
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Champion Breed Waterfowl
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Breed Waterfowl
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Champion AOV
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Reserve Champion AOV
Gracelyn Williams, Palmyra Future Leaders
Best of Show Fowl
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Reserve Best of Show Fowl
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
1st In Class Broilers
Carly Melchert, Leads N Leashes
2nd In Class Broilers
Lainey Johnston, Lenawee Shooting Stars
1st In Class Roasters
Lily Tillotson, Deerfield Lucky Clovers
2nd In Class Roasters
Caitlin Carpenter, Deerfield Lucky Clovers
1st In Class Meat Duck
Josslyn Gray, Lenawee Legends
2nd In Class Meat Duck
Aidan Sweinhagen, Tipton Jets
1st In Class Meat Geese
Cameron Dickerson, Tipton Jets
2nd In Class Meat Geese
Natalie Dickerson, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Turkey
Evan Rising, Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Turkey
Ethan Rising, Quaker Willing Workers
Grand Champion Meat Pen
Lily Tillotson, Deerfield Lucky Clovers
Reserve Champion Meat Pen
Carly Melchert, Leads N Leashes
Grand Champion Meat Waterfowl
Josslyn Gray, Lenawee Legends
Reserve Champion Meat Waterfowl
Aidan Sweinhagen, Tipton Jets
Grand Champion Eggs
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Reserve Grand Champion Eggs
Sedona Echelbarger, Rome Blue Ribbons
Champion Production
Grady Thompson, Medina Pioneers
Reserve Champion Production
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
POULTRY FLYING CONTEST
Bantams
1st: Avery Gawronski, Rome Blue Ribbons
2nd: Avery Publiski, Tipton Jets
Standards
1st: Janey Fischer, South Riga Go-Getters
2nd: Maizie Kirkland, Quaker Willing Workers
RABBITS
Best of Show
Kylie Hicks, Palmyra Future Leaders
Best Opposite of Show
Kaitlyn Comar, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Champion Roaster
Paisley McMunn, Medina Pioneers
Reserve Champion Roaster
Avery Wallace, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Champion Fryer Pen
Annabella Demonico, Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Fryer Pen
Miles Inclan, Dog Gone Fun
Champion Homegrown Roaster
Magnolia Andre,
Britton-Macon Classic Clovers
Reserve Champion Roaster
Penelope Andre, Britton-Macon Classic Clovers
Champion Homegrown Fryers
Jacob Caplon, Tipton Jets
Reserve Champion Homegrown
Fryers
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Champion Showman
Brodie Griffin, Lucky Clovers
Junior Showman (9-12)
Kennedi Six, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Intermediate Showman (12-14)
Kaylee Whitney, Give It Your All
Senior Showman (15-19)
Brodie Griffin, Lucky Clovers
SHEEP
Grand Champion Market Lamb
Colt Jennings, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Reserve Champion Market Lamb
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Grand Champion Pen of Market
Lambs
Gretchen Gautz, Lenawee Legends
Reserve Champion Pen of Market
Lambs
Virginia Barrett, Britton-Macon
Champion Ewe
Colt Jennings, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Reserve Champion Ewe
Owen Plum, South Riga Go-Getters
Champion Wether
Colt Jennings, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Reserve Champion Wether
Wesley Garrison,
Quaker Willing Workers
Overall Champion Showman
Wesley Garrison,
Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Showman
Brodie Griffin, Lucky Clovers
Senior Showman
Brodie Griffin, Lucky Clovers
Intermediate Showman
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Junior Showman
Georgia Barth, Rome Blue Ribbons
Senior Lead Class
Violet Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Intermediate Lead Class
Vera Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Junior Lead Class
Victoria Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Ladd Lead Class
Owen Plum, South Riga Go-Getters
SHEEP BREEDING
Champion Ram Meat Breed
Makenna Wahl, Palmyra Future Leaders
Champion Ewe Meat Breed
Owen Plum, South Riga Go-Getters
SWINE
Grand Champion Market Hog
Joscelyn Laymen, State Line Hustlers
Reserve Champion Market Hog
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Worker
Champion Barrow
Joscelyn Laymen, State Line Hustlers
Reserve Champion Barrow
Brayden Shadewald, Blissfield Hoofs and Horns
Champion Gilt
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers
Reserve Champion Gilt
Isaac Conn, Medina Pioneers
Champion Purebred
Jonathan Fisher, South Riga Go-Getters
Reserve Champion Purebred
Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers
Overall Champion Showman
Joscelyn Layman, State Line Hustlers Reserve Champion Overall Showman
Jonathan Fischer, South Riga Go-Getters
Swine Showman — Junior Sawyer Lennard, State Line Hustlers
Swine Showman — Intermediate Andi Dillon, Quaker Willing Workers
Swine Showman — Senior Joscelyn Layman, State Line Hustlers
DOGS
Obedience Sub-Novice A (8-11)
1st: Sophia Melchert, Leads N Leashes
2nd: Ella Fick, Haydayz
3rd: Scott Hensley, South Riga Go-Getters
Jon Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Scarlett Wells, South Riga Go-Getters
Obedience Sub-Novice B (8-11)
1st: Kenzie Anderson, Dog Gone Fun
2nd: Miles Inclan, Dog Gone Fun
3rd: Carly Melchert, Leads N Leashes
Obedience Sub-Novice A (12-15)
1st: Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Obedience Sub-Novice B (12-15)
1st: Ethan Publiski, Dog Gone Fun
Logan Wells, South Riga Go-Getters
3rd: Molly Wright, Mighty Madison Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Obedience Novice B
1st: Kendalyn Perry, Quaker Willing Workers
2nd: Ethan Publiski, Dog Gone Fun
Agility Beginners A (8-11)
1st: Matthew Oaklief, Palmyra Future Leaders
2nd: Jon Neill, Rome Blue Ribbons
Sadie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Agility Beginners B (8-11)
1st: Miles Inclan, Dog Gone Fun
2nd: Emmett Wright, Mighty Madison
3rd: Macy Anderson, Dog Gone Fun
Agility Beginners A (12-15)
1st: Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Agility Beginners B (12-15)
1st: Ethan Publiski, Dog Gone Fun
2nd: Molly Wright, Mighty Madison
3rd: Jacob Preston, South Riga Go-Getters
Agility Intermediate A
1st: Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Agility Intermediate B
1st: Ethan Publiski, Dog Gone Fun
Agility Advanced A
1st: Kendalyn Perry, Quaker Willing Workers
Grand Champion Agility
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Ellie Nichols, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Reserve Grand Champion Agility
Matthew Oaklief, Palmyra Future Leaders
Grand Champion Obedience
Kenzie Anderson, Dog Gone Fun Reserve Grand Champion Obedience
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Logan Wells, South Riga Go-Getters
Showmanship Sweepstakes Champion Sweepstakes Showman
Joscelyn Layman, State Line Hustlers Reserve Champion Sweepstakes Showman
Brodie Griffin, Lucky Clovers
ARTS
Special Honors
Zoey Miller, Lenawee FFA
Kenzie Anderson, Dog Gone Fun
Morgan Anderson, Serenity Equestrians
Emily Charlton, Rome Blue Ribbons
Levi Kruger, Nature Buds
Maggie Huff, Britton-Macon
Macy Anderson, Dog Gone Fun
Virginia Barrett, Britton-Macon
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
Jane Ives, Quaker Willing Workers
Keegan Gray, Lenawee Legends
Keegan Gray, Lenawee Legends
Kendall Micon, Rome Blue Ribbons
Dashel Hayton, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Extra Special Honors
Keegan Gray, Lenawee Legends
Keegan Gray, Lenawee Legends
Kendall Micon, Rome Blue Ribbons
Dashel Hayton, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
CERAMICS
Special Honors
Paige Holt, Rowdy Wranglers
CRAFTS
Special Honors
Veronica Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Shyanne Clark, Bits & Pieces
Shyanne Clark, Bits & Pieces
Julianna Kurtz, Lenawee Rascals
Gretchen Spence, Tipton Jets
Violet Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Sedona Echelbarger, Rome Blue Ribbons
Olivia Taylor, Palmyra Future Leaders
Augustino Mandelka, Shooters Inc.
Emma Porter, South Riga Go-Getters
Katie Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Jobe Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Victoria Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Hazel Peck, Britton-Macon
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Harper Kreft, South Riga Go-Getters
Grace Wright, Bits and Pieces
Christopher Mullins, Quaker Willing Workers
Leah Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Eliana Pinson, Britton-Macon
Maggie Huff, Britton-Macon
Kennedy Iffland, South Riga Go-Getters
Michaela Cross, Palmyra Future Leaders
Madeline Muir, Not So Boring
Blake Swindeman, South Riga Go-Getters
Extra Special Honors
Katie Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Jobe Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Victoria Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Violet Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Emma Porter, South Riga Go-Getters
Maggie Huff, Britton-Macon
Eliana Pinson, Britton-Macon
Kennedy Iffland, South Riga Go-Getters
Blake Swindeman, South Riga Go-Getters
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Special Honors
Emma Porter, South Riga Go-Getters
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Levi Goetz, South Riga Go-Getters
Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Extra Special Honors
Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
FAIR PARADE 4-H FLOAT WINNERS
1st: Rome Blue Ribbons
2nd: Country Clovers
3rd: Quaker Willing Workers
HORTICULTURE
Special Honors
Abigail Goetz, South Riga Go-Getters
Abigail Goetz, South Riga Go-Getters
Abbigail Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Gretchen Spence, Tipton Jets
Extra Special Honors
Abbigail Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
FLORICULTURE
Special Honors
Ethan Public, Palmyra Future Leaders
Brynn Public, Tipton Jets
Allison Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Abigail Goetz, South Riga Go Getters
Abigail Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Gracelyn Williams, Palmyra Future Leaders
Olivia Taylor, Palmyra Future Leaders
Abigail Goetz, South Riga Go-Getters
Kenzie Anderson, Dog Gone Fun
Holly Mitchell, Lenawee FFA
Avah Jenkins, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Rylee Coblentz, South Riga Go-Getters
Aaron Gust, Bits & Pieces
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
Extra Special Honors
Ethan Public, Palmyra Future Leaders
Brynn Public, Tipton Jets
Rylee Coblentz, South Riga Go-Getters
FOOD AND NUTRITION
Special Honors
Katie Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Jake Jula, Nature Buds
Hailey Libey, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Dottie Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Logan Irwin, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Gabriel Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Levi Kruger, Nature Buds
Carter Holtzbauer, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Extra Special Honors
Katie Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
MISCELLANEOUS PROJECTS
Special Honors
Zoe Rorick, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Brodie Pixley, Palmyra Future Leaders
Alton Mathis, Rome Blue Ribbons
Hazel Shirkey, Ponies Inc.
Benjamin Kay, Ribbon Chasers
Caleb Bailey, Country Clovers
Gabrielle Maurer, Britton-Macon
Austyn Felver, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Olivia Taylor, Palmyra Future Leaders
Levi Kastel, South Riga Go-Getters
Extra Special Honors
Hazel Shirkey, Ponies Inc.
Olivia Taylor, Palmyra Future Leaders
PERFORMING ARTS
Special Honors
Lanie Clairday, Rowdy Wranglers
Timothy, Melody, and Natalie Russell, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Naomi Gust, Bits & Pieces
Abigail Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Allison Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Extra Special Honors
Abigail Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Allison Brockway, Ponies Inc.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Special Honors
Owen Plum,
South Riga Go-Getters
Grace Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Charleigh Roesler, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Kaitlyn Comar, Lenawee Shooting Stars
Cera LaRatta, Not So Boring
Allison Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Lucille LaVoy,
Palmyra Future Leaders
Virginia Barrett, Britton-Macon
Ania Glinski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Grace Brockway, Ponies Inc.
Veronica Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Emma Porter, South Riga Go-Getters
Celton Cook, Shooters Inc.
Spencer Andrews, The Believers
Ethan Publiski, Palmyra Future Leaders
Luke Kastel, South Riga Go-Getters
Zoe Rorick, Shooting Stars
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
Jayleigh Williams, Lenawee Go-Getters
Tessa Benko, Rome Blue Ribbons
Adelynn McConeghy, Dog Gone Fun Club
Taylor McLaughlin, Ribbon Chasers
Extra Special Honors
Tessa Benko, Rome Blue Ribbons
Adelynn McConeghy, Dog Gone Fun Club
Taylor McLaughlin, Ribbon Chasers
LIVESTOCK PROJECT RECORD
BOOKS: GOATS
Beginner
1st: Abigail Nelson, Onsted Sweet Clovers
2nd: Nova Rock, Medina Pioneers
3rd: Levi Osgood, Palmyra Future Leaders
Intermediate
1st: Andrew Osgood, Palmyra Future Leaders
2nd: Violet Caplon, Tipton Jets
3rd: Meredith Miner, Lenawee FFA
Advanced
1st: MaryOlive Caplon, Tipton Jets
2nd: Sophia Curtis, Lenawee FFA 3rd: Ella Mishka, Lenawee FFA
LIVESTOCK PROJECT RECORD
BOOKS: SHEEP
Beginner
1st: Izabella Slusser, South Riga Go-Getters 2nd: Natalie Wilson, Onsted Sweet Clovers
3rd: Henry Wilson, Onsted Sweet Clovers
LIVESTOCK PROJECT RECORD
BOOKS: SWINE
Intermediate
1st: Gabe Sanford, Shooters Inc.
Advanced
1st: Holly Mitchell, Lenawee FFA
2nd: Wyatt Sanford, Shooters Inc.
LIVESTOCK PROJECT RECORD
BOOKS: RABBITS
Beginner
1st: Joe Preston, South Riga Go-Getters
LIVESTOCK PROJECT RECORD
BOOKS: DAIRY FEEDER
Beginner
1st: Annabelle Beyer, Country Clovers
2nd: Madeline Beyer, Country Clovers
3rd: Libby Bleeker, Quaker Willing Workers
Intermediate
1st: Rachel Brayton, Onsted Sweet Clovers
Advanced
1st: Holly Mitchell, Lenawee FFA
SCIENCE
Special Honors
Virginia Barrett, Britton-Macon
SEWING & NEEDLEWORK
Special Honors
Leah Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Kaylee Anderson, Serenity Equestrians
Kaylee Anderson, Serenity Equestrians
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
Kaethe Spence, Tipton Jets
Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Abigail Wegner, State Line Hustlers
Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Jane Ives, Quaker Willing Workers
Vera Hinde, Palmyra Future Leaders
Extra Special Honors
Leah Mishka, Lenawee FFA
Kaylee Anderson, Serenity Equestrians
Kaylee Anderson, Serenity Equestrians
Ariya Cook, Shooters Inc.
Ellie Huff, Britton-Macon
SHOOTING SPORTS/ OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Special Honors
Jaxson Lohr, Palmyra Future Leaders
Autumn Jula, Dream Riders
Extra Special Honors
Jaxson Lohr, Palmyra Future Leaders
Autumn Jula, Dream Riders
WOODWORKING
Special Honors
Caden Schmidt, Ponies Inc.
Julianna Kurutz, Lenawee Rascals
Bryce Opsal, Palmyra Future Leaders
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Garrett Smith, Tipton Jets
Jobe Mitchell, Raisin Slickers
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
Extra Special Honors
Wesley Garrison, Quaker Willing Workers
WOOD BURNING
Special Honors
Mila Novak, Dog Gone Fun
Mila Novak, Dog Gone Fun
Emmett Stange, Palmyra Future Leaders
Extra Special Honors
Mila Novak, Dog Gone Fun
Luke Schamberger of the Medina Pioneers and the crew at C&J Pallets after they purchased his pen of broiler chickens. KRYSTAL SCHAMBERGER
New director on the job at Morenci Senior Center
By Erik Gable
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — There are plenty of things Laurie Reinke hopes to do in her new job as director of the Morenci Senior Center, but they all come down to this: “I’m hoping to bring smiles to people’s faces.”
Reinke started working at the senior center on June 10 after retiring from a factory job.
“Honestly, this is a job that I’ve been looking at for quite some time,” she said, noting that her daughter works for the Lenawee County Department on Aging so she was already somewhat familiar with its programs.
However, she said, “it just never was the right time — and this time I just said ‘you know what, I think the time is right.’ ”
Reinke is replacing Jimmie Garland, who retired after having served as senior center director since 2022.
“I think I’m going to have some pretty big shoes to fill, but I feel confident that I can do it,” she said.
Reinke said she wants to bring more people into the center and keep them active and entertained. She’s gotten feedback that people would like opportunities to take trips, and she’s thinking of a day trip to Grand Rapids, Ohio. She also plans to incorporate more arts and crafts into senior center programs, and is thinking about new entertainment options.
Nobody needs to be a member of the senior center — people can just drop in. Lunch is served every weekday, with a suggested donation of $3 for seniors and $4 for others.
Reinke estimated that the center serves 15 to 20 people per day.
Since becoming senior center director, Reinke has found that there are many more resources available for area seniors than she knew about previously.
“I was kind of amazed at the different programs that are out there for seniors that I was not aware of,” she said.
For example, blood pressure checks and dental assessments are among the resources that area residents can access through the senior center.
Reinke said she enjoys the people she’s gotten to meet during her first several weeks as senior center director.
“The people here have been great,” she said. “They’re a treat to be around.”
During her first week on the job, Reinke said, she realized what a good
ERIK GABLE/MORENCI ADVOCATE
time she was having and thought: “And I get paid to do this?”
She particularly enjoys feeling that her job makes a difference.
“This has a purpose and it feels good,” she said.
The Morenci Senior Center is located inside Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church at 800 W. Chestnut St. It is one of seven senior centers operated by the Lenawee County Department on Aging, with the others being in Adrian, Addison, Blissfield, Hudson, Onsted, and Tecumseh. Each senior center offers a range of activities, resources, and services tailored to meet the needs of the local community.
The center is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information about the Morenci Senior Center, call 517-260-4912 or email Morenci.Seniors@lenawee.mi.us.
Laurie Reinke is the new director of the Morenci Senior Center, located inside Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church at 800 W. Chestnut St.
Road work begins Aug. 5
MORENCI — Road improvement work will begin in Morenci on August 5 and is expected to be completed by the end of the month. The project is partially funded by a Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Community Service Infrastructure Fund grant, which will cover $113,912.80 of the total $250,763.03 cost.
Work includes mill and overlay resurfacing, ADA-compliant crosswalk upgrades, and the addition of a new crosswalk at Mill and West Main Street. Streets scheduled for repair include:
n Page Street.
n North Summit Street (from Coomer to Greeley).
n Sims Highway (from Main to West Coomer).
n West Coomer Street (in front of the EMS building).
Drivers should expect temporary lane closures and detours during construction.
Back-to-School Bash is Aug. 13
MORENCI — Morenci’s annual Backto-School Bash is set for Wednesday, August 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. in downtown Morenci, bringing together families, school staff, and community groups to celebrate the start of the upcoming school year.
Now in its fourth year, the event has continued to grow thanks to community collaboration. Organized by Seneca Community Church, Morenci Area Schools, the Kiwanis Club of Morenci, and the City of Morenci, the Bash offers free school supplies, games, prizes, program information, and a free meal for students and their families.
Seneca Community Church will offer free games and raffles, with backpacks full of school supplies and teacher gifts up for grabs. The Morenci Area Schools food service team will serve free walking tacos, fresh watermelon, and bottled water, thanks to support from local donors.
The Kiwanis Club of Morenci has helped fund school supply purchases
through grants from Lenawee Cares and Michigan Gas Utilities. Supplies will be handed out in grade-level bags for elementary students, while middle and high school students can choose five items of their choice from tables of available supplies.
Students and families will also have a chance to learn about school programs and extracurriculars at booths run by Morenci students and staff. The event includes a Touch-a-Truck experience, featuring a Morenci school bus and vehicles from the Morenci Police and Fire Departments. Local businesses and organizations will be downtown with activities, games, and giveaways, and Morenci Bulldog spirit wear will be available for purchase at the Jammers Designs booth.
For more information or to get involved, contact community and economic development director Heather Sarnac at 517-429-0100 or heather.
sarnac@cityofmorenci.org.
New coach hopes to reinvigorate Morenci’s cross country program
By Erik Gable
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — Having been a cross country runner himself in high school, Tony Muzzi has an appreciation for the sport.
Now, as Morenci’s new cross country coach, he’s hoping to bring new energy to the program — and more numbers. There were four varsity players on last fall’s roster, and three of them were seniors. But Muzzi feels there’s a lot to appreciate about cross country as a discipline.
“Cross country is an interesting sport,” he said, adding that students often have different reasons for doing it. Some run cross country simply because they aren’t in another fall sport and want to stay in shape. Others are really serious about cross country for its own sake and want to pursue titles. As coach, he said, his job will be to build the program around what student athletes want to get out of it — and to keep it fun.
“People are a little bit apprehensive of cross country because they think it’s nothing but running in the woods,” Muzzi said.
But he said cross country can really be a “life builder” — something that teaches both discipline and hard work.
Muzzi learned that the cross country program needed a coach when, as a new member of the Morenci Downtown Development Authority, he was working on organizing the Run for the Roses 5K this past spring.
One of his first tasks as coach — besides working to drum up interest in the program — will be trail maintenance. For the first few practices, Muzzi will be out on the trail with the students, doing things like trimming brush and raking twigs and debris.
“I really want to make that the responsibility of the team, and I want it to be part of training,” he said. “If you’re going to take pride in a sport, you need to take pride in the field on which you play the sport.”
Cross country has a lot to offer, Muzzi said, and not just for the traditional athlete. It can also appeal to kids who may not want the attention that comes with being part of a more high-profile sport, but still like being part of a team and achieving some personal accomplishments.
“It’s a philosophical sport,” he added. “You’re up in your head for 20 minutes and you’ve gotta be OK with that.”
In addition to training on Morenci’s course — which Muzzi noted is the right length for a middle school course but not long enough to be a high school course — he hopes to take the team on training trips to other locations, such as local hiking trails and the Lost Nation State Game Area in Hillsdale County.
Muzzi knows growing the program won’t be an immediate thing, but he’s ready to start working.
“It’s going to be a struggle getting people reinterested, but the goal is, in two or three years, to be able to hold meets here in Morenci,” he said.
“The hope is that people see cross country as a serious sport at Morenci again.”
Muzzi doesn’t know how many students will be on the team this year. He’ll find out when he sees who shows up on the first day of practice.
“There’s no tryouts,” he noted. “Nobody’s going to get cut from the team. It’s just a different type of sporting experience.”
Tony Muzzi is the new cross country coach at Morenci High School. ERIK GABLE/MORENCI ADVOCATE
HISTORY OF STEPHENSON PARK
Following is a speech given by David Green on June 26 at the dedication of the renovated Stephenson Park, outlining the park’s history.
In 1814, a baby was born in upstate New York and he was named Andrew Stephenson. When he was in his 40s, he moved into Seneca Township and bought farmland. He moved to Morenci in 1856 when the village was only about 20 years old.
He bought 120 acres of land that eventually became much of what’s now the southern part of town. In 1866, he donated this large square of land specifically for use as a park.
Stephenson wanted this property to resemble the town squares that he remembered from back east, although this was far from the center of town.
I know Stephenson Park because I used to play here as a kid and then 40 years later my own children played here. And now the grandkids play here.
But everything else about its history comes from reading old Morenci Observer newspapers. I said earlier that he donated the land in 1866. That’s what I read in village council minutes from the 1930s. The late historian Maude Chase offers a variety of dates such as 1875 or just the 1860s.
I learned that when the circus came to town in the 1870s, tents were often set up here.
In 1920, members from Morenci’s four churches got together and did
some landscaping work on the park. It included the planting of a shrub in each of the four corners to represent the churches.
In 1923, a resident wrote a letter to the editor suggesting that Stephenson should became a tourist park for camping. “This is a day of tourists and every town and village of any consequence is bidding for the business,” he wrote. Apparently Morenci was of no consequence until five years later when the new Riverside Park became the tourist camp.
Stephenson park was in the newspaper often during the 1930s, although it was generally referred to as South Park. For the most part it was merely a mention in the council minutes listing who was paid for mowing or raking leaves. The going rate was 25¢ an hour.
In the 1934 there was a discussion about moving the soldier’s monument from the park to the Oak Grove Cemetery.
A tennis court was built in 1941 in southeast corner.
Here’s a typical July from the 1940s. The Missionary Circle of the Baptist Church will meet at Stephenson park. A couple of weeks later the Methodist Church Sunday School will meet at Stephenson Park. The next week it was the Ladies Union of the Congregational Church and then a few weeks later the Girls Interest Group.
In 1951 the city accepted a 99-year lease of South Park from the county. What? For some reason the land didn’t belong to Morenci, but the lease gave the city the right to make improvements,
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
First Wednesday Taco Night Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
The Morenci American Legion hosts Taco Night on the first Wednesday of every month.
Magic show with Cameron Zvara
Stair District Library, 228 West Main St., 1 p.m. A magic show appropriate for all ages. Free. More info: 517-458-6510 or stairlib.org.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Outdoor Concert Series: Chase Van Brandt & the Dive Bar All-Stars North Street Pub, 113 North St., Morenci, 8-11 p.m. Enjoy live music all summer at North Street Pub’s new outdoor concert series on the second Friday of every month.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
Summer Saturdays: ’90s on the 9th
Downtown Morenci, 4-11 p.m.
It’s time to break out the flannel, the chokers, or your best throwback gear as Morenci turns up the volume for ’90s on the 9th. Come downtown for a night of music, food, drinks, and ’90s vibes, including music by Pop’s Garage. Food trucks will be Poquito Chapulín and Fade to Black BBQ. Beer tents will be hosted by Morenci Eagles and North Street Pub.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13
Steak off the Grill and Potato Salad Dinner Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
Back-to-School Bash
Downtown Morenci, 6-9 p.m.
The Morenci Back-to-School Bash features free games, school supplies, food, and fun for all ages. Check out booths from school clubs and teams, explore fire and police vehicles, visit local vendors and organizations, and don’t miss the dunk tank featuring familiar faces from the school and city. This free community event is made possible by Seneca Community Church, Morenci Area Schools, the city of Morenci, and Kiwanis Club of Morenci, with support from the Lenawee Community Foundation and Michigan Gas Utilities.
so restrooms and a shelter house were built by the Morenci Improvement Association.
Watercolor classes were offered and a program for 4- to 6-year-olds began that included splatter painting, croquet and making dolls from wooden spoons. That was the same week as a bicycle race for the older kids. They were dropped off at Munson and had to pedal five miles back into town.
New playground equipment came in the 1950s along with a ball field. The park was used for Grange picnics, family reunions, Camp Fire Girls meetings, 4-H club meetings and much more.
In the 1960s, the city decided to banish hard ball in the park due to the injuries sustained by young children and damage to property in the area.
The high school band gave a performance in the park in 1964 and I was probably a member of that group, although I no longer have any recollection of that event.
A new merry-go-round was installed in 1968 and it was a doozy. It probably wouldn’t be allowed today due to safety concerns.
In the 1970s the restrooms were vandalized, the fire department unsuccessfully tried to construct an ice rink, and two girls found a snake in the park and brought it into the Observer office. It slithered under the cash register. My father was not pleased.
On the morning of July 4, 1972, peanuts had been distributed around the park and 50 kids showed up to try to find them. The winner in the older group was Peggy Brown, now known as Peggy Decker.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14
Cooking for the Heart
Fulton County Health Center, 9:30 a.m.
Heart health is one of the top benefits people report seeking from food, and yet we often seem to miss the mark. This class will talk about culinary practices and practical tips focused on food and flavor to feel more confident when making decisions in the kitchen and enhancing cardiovascular health. Call 419-330-2692 for further information and to register.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
Morenci Alumni Reunion
Morenci Eagies, 239 W. Main St.
Classes from the 1930s to 1980s are invited to attend the Morenci Alumni Reunion. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and pictures will start at 7 p.m. Teachers welcome. A loaded baked potato bar and pulled pork sandwiches will be available for $12 per person; contact Ivy Hutchison at tihutchison@hotmail.com or 517-306-3879 to sign up for dinner.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 17
Revitalize Morenci Initiative Golf Fundraiser Woodlawn Golf Club, 4634 Treat Hwy., Adrian, 9 a.m.
This 18-hole scramble features four-person teams, with an 8 a.m. registration and 9 a.m. shotgun start. Entry is $75 per golfer and includes a power cart, hot dogs at the turn, lunch afterward, contests, prizes, and more. Register by Aug. 8. Forms are available at Morenci City Hall or on the Revitalize Morenci Initiative Facebook page. Proceeds support Morenci beautification projects and murals. More info: revitalizemorenci@gmail.com or 517-458-6828
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19
Sacred Architecture of Peru: Pyramids & Temples of the Coast Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci, 3 p.m.
A free one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the pyramids and temples of the coast of Peru. Join historian and archaeologist Oscar Oviedo Velasco for an enlightening exploration of the sacred pyramids and temples of Peru’s coastal civilizations. From the monumental adobe pyramids of the Moche to the sprawling temple complexes of the city of Lima, discover the architectural ingenuity and spiritual significance behind these awe-inspiring structures. Learn how ancient Peruvians designed these sacred spaces to align with celestial events, honor their deities and serve as centers of power.
In 1982, the Child Study Club decided to do some work at the park and buy new playground equipment. They had only $500 and asked the city council for help. Sorry, there were no funds available for that.
In 1994 two shuffleboard courts were constructed. If you look at the floor of the new shelter houses you can still see the markings.
Before the Wakefield Park playscape was built in 2000, some of the equipment was moved to Stephenson. The South Park basketball court was built in 2002, but most news from the park was on page 3 of the Observer in the police report. Fire at Stephenson Park. Assault at Stephenson Park. Disorderly persons. Juvenile problem. Suspicious situation. Loud persons.
There was a lot of vandalism. There was a lot of talk about making improvements, but without much action. But I’ve been holding out on you. Perhaps the biggest news in the park’s 159-year history occurred in June 1964. The headline in the Observer read: Monkey loose in park.
Danny Hart’s pet monkey escaped and headed for the trees of Stephenson Park. Danny’s mother placed a cage in the park and baited it with bananas, but kids ate them before the monkey had a chance.
The fire department tried to wash it out of a tree, but the hose burst, soaking the police chief who was standing by. Later a veterinarian with a tranquilizer gun roamed the park, but the monkey was never seen again.
That was the biggest news — until today.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20
Bratwurst Dinner
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Morenci Car Cruise
Crosssroads lot (across from Wakefield Park) , 5-7 p.m. Morenci’s monthly car show runs from May to September on the fourth Friday of each month.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27
Ground Bologna or Egg Salad Dinner Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29
The Michigan Misfits & FWAR Rex Theater, 235 W Main St., Morenci, 4:30 p.m.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Silver Creek Bridge Walk
South East Street, Morenci, 11 a.m.
The 31st annual Silver Creek Bridge Walk will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, on the historic truss bridge at the Michigan-Ohio border in Morenci. This fun, tongue-in-cheek tradition offers a lighthearted alternative to the five-mile Mackinac Bridge Walk up north, and serves as a celebration of community. Immediately following the walk, the Kiwanis Club will hold a Golf Ball Drop Fundraiser Raffle in partnership with the Morenci Fire Department.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
Share the Warmth’s BBQ for a Cause Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 1-5 p.m.
Join us on Saturday, September 6th from 1–5PM at Morenci Legion for a community celebration you won’t want to miss. Enjoy mouthwatering BBQ, music, silent auction items and great company—all in support of our mission to build housing stability and strengthen local partnerships.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Morenci Town & Country Festival’s 1st Annual Golf Outing
Wolf Creek Golf Course, 8 a.m.
Eighteen holes; hot dog and chips at the turn; lunch after golfing. More information: 517-403-9667.
To submit items for inclusion in this calendar, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.
During the 1959-60 school year, the staff of the Bulldog’s Bark, the school newspaper, included these students. Seated in the front row: Sharon Smith, Karen Hayes, and Audrey Keller. Seated in the second row: Janet Lindeman, Carol Onweller, and Linda Watters. Standing: Gary Driscoll, Doug Gardiner, Joanna Allen, Janet Borton, Karen Deline, Dian Turner, Judy Brewer, and Lois Kime. — YEARBOOK ARCHIVES AT STAIRLIBRARY.ADVANTAGE-PRESERVATION.COM
25 YEARS AGO
Verizon was given approval by the Morenci Zoning Board of Appeals to build a 300-foot cell phone tower on the south side of town, just before the Ohio state line.
The Stair Public Library board approved new wiring to get ready for computers that were being purchased through a Gates Foundation grant.
The new BMX track at Wakefield Park was nearing completion.
50 YEARS AGO
A barn at the home of Bernita Barnes on Burma Highway was lost to fire. Ron Rothfuss was hired as the Morenci school district’s athletic director, replacing Greg Lamley. The Bulldog football team was preparing to return to the field with 18 of last year’s lettermen anchoring the 26-man squad. Coach Mike Bull said the squad’s entire backfield from last year would be returning.
75 YEARS AGO
The Morenci Improvement Association organized a “Mid-Century Edition” of the annual Harvest Festival. Bonnie Schoonover was named the Harvest Queen. Emerson’s Market was sold to Duane Reppert, a Morenci native living in Adrian.
Charlotte Crane, Inez Blystone, Mace Stuart were added to the Morenci Public Schools faculty.
100 YEARS AGO
More than 100 Morenci residents gathered to clean up the campgrounds located just west and south of the cemetery along the bank of Bean Creek. A “bump” in the center of the intersection of North and Congress streets, which had been there for about 20 years, was finally removed.
— from the Observer archives
Fulton County Fair opens Aug. 29
WAUSEON — The Fulton County Fair will run from Friday, Aug. 29, to Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, 8514 State Route 108, Wauseon, Ohio.
Billed as one of the largest county fairs in Ohio, its attendance on the busiest days can more than double Fulton County’s population.
The gates open at 9 a.m. on Aug. 29. In addition to merchants, vendors, and livestock exhibits, a variety of entertainment will be offered, including both ticketed events in the grandstand and other events that are free with fair admission.
On Sunday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m., the grandstand will offer a classic rock concert featuring Bret Michaels, lead singer of Poison, and Steve Augeri, lead singer of Journey from 1998 to 2006.
On Monday, Sept. 1, at 7 p.m., a classic country concert will be headlined by Trace Adkins and Craig Morgan. Tractor pulls, horse races, a demolition derby, and more are also on tap for the grandstand.
New this year is an interactive Lego exhibit from Friday through Tuesday. Fulton County Christian Music Ministries will offer weeklong entertainment in the Gospel Building. Gate admission is $5 per person. Children ages 15 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Daily ride wristbands are $25 each. For more information about the Fulton County Fair, call 419-335-6006 or go to fultoncountyfair.com.
Croswell Opera House in Adrian presents ‘Annie’
ADRIAN — A beloved classic of the stage comes to the Croswell Opera House this month when the theater presents “Annie.”
The Croswell’s production opens Aug. 8 and runs for two weekends.
The 1976 musical, which is based on the comic strip “Little Orphan Annie,” tells the story of an orphan in Depression-era New York who finds a new home when she is adopted by the wealthy Oliver Warbucks. It includes well-known songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life.”
“Annie”
The role of Annie is played by Caroline Hubbard, an 11-year-old from Chelsea. Although this is her first Croswell show, she has been dancing since age 3 and has appeared in numerous productions at southeast Michigan theaters, including as Susan Waverly in “White Christmas” at the Encore Musical Theatre Company in Dexter. At the age of 5, she was one of two girls chosen to play Lulu, the daughter of the main character in “Waitress,” when that show’s first national tour came to the Fisher Theater in 2019.
The other orphans include Charlotte Teall Beaver of Ann Arbor as Pepper; Zariah Blackmon of Adrian as July; Piper Dillon of Sylvania as Tessie; Parker Hinshaw of Ottawa Hills, Ohio, as Duffy; Alayna Brazzil of Holland, Ohio, as Kate; and Maddox Reitz of Sylvania as the littlest orphan, Molly. In the orphan ensemble are Makenzie Gonzalez and Genesis Mutatu of Adrian; Olivia Grzebik of Clinton; Cora Kepler of Dundee; Vivienne Taylor of Ottawa Lake; Clara R oss of Tecumseh; Sunny Barson of Ypsilanti; Adalyn Brazzil of Holland, Ohio; and Giuliana Kozak and Ryelee Pickett of Toledo.
Elizabeth Mitchell of Van Buren Township plays Miss Hannigan, the child-hating matron of the orphanage. Ward Ensign of Toledo is the millionaire Oliver Warbucks, and Emma Skaggs of Perrysburg is Warbucks’ secretary, Grace Farrell.
The ne’er-do-wells Rooster Hannigan and Lily St. Regis, who impersonate Annie’s parents, are played by Steven Kiss of Temperance and Cassidy Giddens of Adrian.
Filling out the cast in a variety of roles are Virginia Atkinson, Kimberly Blackmon, Haylie Blohm, Madelyn Bowman, Tyler Condon, Tiah DavisMutatu, Christopher Harlan, Shannah
Mutatu, and Astrid Thomas, all of Adrian; Mitchell LaRoy of Blissfield; Peter Kepler of Dundee; Lane Hakel of Hudson; Morgan Decker of Ottawa Lake; Julia Kirn and Abigail Van Camp of Tecumseh; Emily Damschroder and Brian Jones of Maumee, Ohio; and Chris Stack of Toledo.
The production is helmed by Kirsten Hinshaw, who is making her Croswell directorial debut but is well known to Toledo-area theater fans as the director of performing arts at St. Ursula Academy. The choreographer is Dom Glover, the vocal director of Wynne Marsh, and the live orchestra will be conducted by Ray Novak.
Tickets to “Annie” range from $26 to $46 for adults, $16 to $26 for students, and may be ordered online at croswell. org or by calling 517-264-7469.
The Croswell reminds theatergoers that it does not sell tickets through any third-party sites, and will never sell tickets for more than the advertised price.
Dates and times are:
n Friday, Aug. 8 at 7:30 p.m.
n Saturday, Aug. 9 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
n Sunday, Aug. 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
n Thursday, Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
n Friday, Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
n Saturday, Aug. 16 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
n Sunday, Aug. 17 at 2:30 p.m.
UP NEXT
Coming up this fall at the Croswell: “Parade” — Sept. 12-21. Based on a true story, “Parade” follows Jewish newlyweds Leo and Lucille Frank as they struggle to make a life in 1913 Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable and brutal test of faith. A story of religious intolerance, political injustice and racial tension, “Parade”was nominated for nine Tony Awards, winning three. The Croswell’s production features Matthew Porter of Adrian as Leo Frank.
“Bonnie & Clyde” — Oct. 17-26. This cult-favorite Broadway musical retells the true story of America’s most infamous couple, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, the ill-fated lovers and outlaws whose story has been legendary since they achieved folk hero status during the Great Depression. Emma Skaggs of Perrysburg, Ohio, plays Bonnie and Kevin Ludwig of Monclova, Ohio, plays Clyde.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” — Nov. 21 to Dec. 7. This contemporary take on the classic tale features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score. Ally Szymanski of Adrian plays the title role.
Caroline Hubbard
Anna Marie Kerns
Anna Marie Kerns, 72, of Morenci died on July 13.
She was born in Toledo on Sept. 30, 1952, to James and Dorothy (Never) Gifford.
She married John Lester Kerns in 1970 in Palmyra, and he survives.
She grew up in Blissfield. She loved to cook and was renowned for her potato salad. She enjoyed being outside tending to her gardens and was an animal lover, always willing to adopt a new pet. She had a vast collection of Amish dolls, art and memorabilia. She was outgoing and loved to sing Patsy Cline karaoke at the Pub.
In addition to her husband, survivors include a son, John (Sonya) Kerns Jr. of Adrian; two daughters, Carrie (Kevin) Drow of Williston, Florida, and Wendy Kerns (Nathan Darm) of Morenci; siblings, Brenda (Russ), Linda, Dody, Joan (Randy), and William; a sister-inlaw, Virginia Gifford; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.
She was preceded in her death by one daughter, Kristi Lynn Kerns; siblings, Virginia, Jim, and Shari (Jay); and a brother-in-law, Junior McGinnis. — marryfh.com
Daniel Herman
Daniel Russell Herman, 74, of Morenci died on July 5.
He was born in Adrian on April 27, 1951, to Othmar O. Herman and Edith V. (Trumble) Herman. He married Flower Kay (Brighton) Rood in 1994 in Canandaigua, and she survives.
He lived most of his life in Clayton and Morenci. He worked for Stubnitz-Greene in Adrian and Charlotte until they closed, and then in several other factories in Michigan and Ohio. He was a member of the Sauk Valley Original Rifles.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his son, Dennis Herman of Adrian; stepdaughters, Tina Brighton of Branch and Stacey (John) Lazarus of Ionia; stepson, Edward Rood of Hastings; 12 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; two sisters, Gayle (Lyle) Clark of Hillsdale, and Karen (Mark) Kerr of Clayton; brothers, Charles (Todd Spotts) Herman of Holland, Ohio, and Harold E. (Michelle) Hackathorn of Hudson; two half-sisters Carol (Ora) Hatcher of Howell and Dolores Raver of North Branch, Minnesota; sister-in-law Kathy (Joe) Snyder of Lyons; and friend, Deb Howard.
He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel Richard; daughter, Dora Lynn; stepdaughter, Star Rood; two sisters, Vicki Herman and Dawn Herman; three half-sisters; seven half-brothers; and two brothers-in-law. — pursefuneralhome.com
Michael Merillat
Michael Jay Merillat, 67, of Montpelier, Ohio, formerly of Fayette, died on July 12 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was born in Wauseon on May 5, 1958, to Merrill and Bonita (Stantz) Merillat. He married Karen Sue (Beavers) Brown in 2016, and she survives.
Michael Merillat
He was a 1976 graduate of GorhamFayette High School and served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves. In civilian life, he drove trucks for his brother Randy, worked at Sauder Woodworking, and most recently worked for the steel plant (now Ecolab) in Delta for over 20 years.
He was a skilled guitar player. He enjoyed the outdoors, and often spent free time hunting, fishing, and crafting beautiful hunting bows.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his son, Bradley (Amy) Merillat of Archbold; three stepchildren, Tasha (Jaret) Grove of Edon, Jaramie (Kayla) Harness of Nettle Lake, and Cherish Brown (Mansoor Alneyadi) of Edon; a brother, Darrell Merillat of Wauseon; sister-in-law, Penny (Dan) Creighton of Fayette; and 11 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Randy Merillat, and a granddaughter, Daphne Hannaford.
— marryfh.com
Janet Frees
Janet Louise Frees, 68, of Hudson died on July 12, 2025, at Lenawee Medical Care Facility.
She was born in Hudson on Nov. 10, 1956, to Richard Wells and Mary Anne (Powers) Frees of Morenci. Her father died in 1961, and in 1963 her mother married Robert Donald Leffingwell of Hudson.
She graduated from Hudson High School in 1975 and received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Siena Heights College in 1979. She taught fifth grade in Toledo, then worked in the district offices of U.S. Reps. David Stockman and Mark Siljander before moving to Washington, D.C., to work in Siljander’s office as a legislative assistant and district caseworker. She attended the inaugurations of Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.
She returned to Hudson in 1989. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Lenawee County Republican Party, of which she was a past executive committee member.
She was baptized at Trinity Lutheran church in Morenci and was confirmed at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Hudson. Since 1991 she belonged to Crystal Cathedral Ministries.
She is survived by her brother, Richard “Tim” (Mary Ann) Frees of Florida, and sisters Lori (Mark) Butts of Manitou Beach and Lisa Daub of Hudson. — marryfh.com
James A. Keefer
James Keefer, 66, of Fayette died on July 10.
He was born on Feb. 4,1959, in Hudson, to Denver and Bessie (Smith) Keefer. He married Gwendolyn Johnson in 1986 at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene, and she survives.
He attended Fayette schools and lived on his family’s farm from the age of 5 until the day he died. In his early life he raised pigs before transitioning to cattle and hay farming.
He worked at Sauder Woodworking from 1989 to 2024 as a truck loader. He had a deep love of animals, especially dogs, and supported the Fulton County Humane Society. A man of strong faith, he was baptized at the First Baptist Church of Morenci.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his daughter, Meribeth (Edward Bollinger) Keefer; Ian Bollinger; son of the heart Brad (Rachelle) Lantz; four grandchildren; two brothers, Carl (Jan) and Alvin (Diane) Keefer; and four sisters, Marlene Eckle, Betty Shaffer, Lois (Walt) Hassenzahl, and Elaine (Larry) Deck. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Denver and John Keefer, and two sisters, Arlene Parker and Lorraine Patterson.
— marryfh.com
Timothy Pennington
Timothy Allan Pennington, 61, of Fayette died on July 7 following a battle with cancer.
He was born in Morenci on July 22, 1963, to Allan Pennington and Karen Cox.
He graduated from Evergreen High School in 1981. He and his wife, Christina, were married in 2014, and she survives.
He spent many years working alongside his brother, Bill, in his tool and die shop. He enjoyed camping, attending concerts, looking over old cars and motorcycles, and riding bicycles.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his father, Allan Pennington; motherin-law, Barb Beaverson; brothers, Michael (Denise) Pennington and William (Sarah) Pennington; children, Jacob (Sara) Pennington, Lucas (Mikayla) Pennington, Aaron Hylander, Austin (Chelsea) Hylander, Alec (Paige) Hylander, and Adriana Hylander; and nine grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by an infant sister, Cindy, and grandson, Reese Hylander.
— marryfh.com
Verna Mae Williams
Verna Mae Williams, 95, of Fayette died on July 9 at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, where she had resided for the past year. She was born in Wauseon on Nov. 28, 1929, to Kenneth and Alice (Klinker) Flory. She married Wayne Revere Williams in 1949 at the Wauseon First Christian Church, and he preceded her in death.
She grew up in Wauseon, where she graduated from high school in 1947. While raising her sons, she worked as a bookkeeper for her husband’s Sohio gas station in Fayette for nearly 25 years. She later worked at the Fayette Normal Memorial Library, where she served as its director for 30 years, retiring in 2002. She was a member of the Fayette Firebelles, Fayette Woman’s Club, Order of Eastern Star, and Ohio Library Council, and was a 50-year member of the Fayette United Methodist Church. She volunteered with Fayette Helping Hands and was a researching advocate for the Bean Creek History Center. She and her husband were crowned Queen and King of the Fayette Royal Bullthistle Festival in 1993, and were named Citizens of the Year in 2015. Her dedication to the village of Fayette was recognized with the declaration of “Verna Williams Day” on June 9, 2023.
Survivors include one son, Mark S. Williams of Wauseon; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Michael Lee Williams; sister, Carol Flory; and brother, Richard (Donna) Flory.
— marryfh.com
Mary Alice Lockwood
Mary Alice Lockwood, 90, of Adrian, formerly of Morenci, died on July 16. She was born in Sand Creek on Feb. 23, 1935, to the late Howard and Rose (Souders) Scott. She married Donald Eugene Lockwood, and he preceded her in death.
She graduated from Sand Creek High School and then started working at the former Adrian State Bank as a teller, working her way up to the loan department and retiring in 2003. She then worked in the office at the Adrian Mall until it closed. In her free time, she enjoyed quilting and cake decorating.
She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Camburn and Cindy (Mike) Foreman; son, Marc Lockwood (Cathy Jackson); six grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; brother, Jim (Kathy) Scott; sister, Roselyn (Larry) Keller; and special friend, Shelley Lockwood.
Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Gary Camburn.
— marryfh.com
Timothy Pennington
Verna Mae Williams
James Keefer
Mary Alice Lockwood
Janet Frees
Anna Marie Kerns
Daniel Herman
OBITUARIES
Joseph Simpson
Joseph Charles Simpson, 73, of Morenci died on July 22 at Midland Hospice Care Home in Topeka, Kansas.
He was born in Adrian on May 27, 1952, to Charles Franklin and Elizabeth (Alford) Simpson.
He served in the U.S. Army and had a career in law enforcement in Pottawamie County, Kansas, as a police officer and later as police chief.
Joseph Simpson
He is survived by his son, Joey (Robin) Simpson; daughters, Frankie Simpson, Kayde Miller and Kandi (Chad) Simpson; stepdaughters, Leah (Alan) Taylor and Valerie (Dustin) Siegle; 15 grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren; and sisters, Julie (Tracy) Morse, LouAnn Rowley, Pam (Ken) Richardson, Becky (Donavan) Paskan and Tanya (David) Garvin. — marryfh.com
Ernest ‘Gary’ Cousino Jr.
Ernest “Gary” Cousino Jr., 56, of Hudson, formerly of Morenci, died on July 23.
He was born in Hudson on Jan. 14, 1969, to Ernest and Bonnie (Shaner) Cousino.
Skilled in various trades, he worked as a carpenter flipping houses all over Michigan. He also worked as an auto mechanic. He enjoyed deer hunting, woodworking, riding his motorcycle, and building model cars.
Ernest ‘Gary’ Cousino Jr.
He is survived by his mother, Bonnie Cousino of Adrian; son, Joseph Cousino of Morenci; daughter, Thereasa Cousino of Morenci; brother, James Cousino of Adrian; sister, Sara Cousino of Wauseon, Ohio; and five grandchildren. — marryfh.com
Donnell Basham
Donnell Williams Basham, 55, of Morenci died on June 28 at University of Michigan Hospital.
She was born in Morenci on Oct. 10, 1969, to Alden and Nina Williams. She married Earl Basham, who preceded her in death.
She was a 1988 graduate of Morenci High School. She enjoyed helping out at the Dairy Depot and watching her grandchildren, nieces, and nephew at sporting events.
Survivors include her children, Alden (Amber) Basham and Brianna (Jacob) Thompson; 10 grandchildren; brothers, Daniel and Randall Williams; and sister, Geneva (Henry Shea) Ballard. — pursefuneralhome.com
Ruth Taylor
Ruth “Ruthie” Taylor, 80, of Weston died on July 18 at the Hospice of Lenawee home.
She was in Adrian on April 29, 1945, the daughter of Claude and Wanda (Garwood) Fisher.
She loved playing pool and was inducted into the VNEA Hall of Fame in 2016. She enjoyed going to the racetrack, camping, and going to casinos.
Ruth Taylor
She is survived by her children, Ronald (Vicki) Stetten of Fayetteville, Tennessee, Robin Gerhart (Don Crawford) of Adrian, Richard (Deana) Stetten of Fairfield, Jennifer (Lucky) Stoddard of Weston and Jamie (David) Pickering of Adrian; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; four brothers, Donald (Diane) Fisher, Claude (Joanne) Fisher, Johnny Fisher and Dale (Cindy) Fisher; and one sister, Wendy Luttrell.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Wanda Heroy and Lois Fisher; three brothers, Tim Fisher and two in infancy; and brother-in-law, Brice Luttrell.
— pursefuneralhome.com
IN BRIEF
Additional penalty handed down for new abuse charge
ADRIAN — A 61-year-old Morenci man, who was already serving 17½ to 50 years in prison for sex crimes against a child in 1997, was sentenced on July 25 to a mandatory term of life without parole for an additional count of first degree criminal sexual conduct, according to Morenci Advocate news partner Local Buzz Radio.
Gary Shumate was convicted in June of molesting another child under the age of 13 in April 2022. The jury deliberated for only 20 minutes before finding him guilty. The new sentence was handed down by Judge Anna Marie Anzalone.
Fire damages semi, but is stopped from spreading
MORENCI — A fire early on the morning of July 25 damaged a semi and destroyed dozens of straw bales on the flatbed trailer attached to the cab on East Main Street in Morenci, but crews were able to prevent the flames from spreading to two nearby houses.
Local Buzz Radio reported that the Morenci Fire Department was dispatched shortly before 12:45 a.m. and found the 53-foot aluminum trailer, loaded with approximately 40 bales of straw, to be fully involved in flames. Fifteen Morenci firefighters used about 20,000 gallons of water to extinguish the fire, and were assisted by Lyons and Gorham-Fayette as well as by city police, the Department of Public Works, and T&R Total Lawn Care.
Donnell Basham
