Summer Block Party outdoor concert series offers ’80s Night — PAGE 2 Early College partnership provides opportunities for Morenci students — PAGE 7
Bows & Toes offers dog grooming in downtown Morenci PAGE 3
New veterans’ monument to be dedicated July 4
By Erik Gable
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — More than 80 years ago, Staff Sgt. Robert Deatrick was fighting in the Battle of the Bulge during the final months of World War II.
MORENCI — Voters in the Morenci school district will be asked to approve a renewal of the district’s 18mill non-homestead operating levy in the Aug. 4 election.
This millage generates about $699,000 each year, representing about 12% of the school district’s general operating budget. It funds the day-to-day operations of Morenci Area Schools.
“Non-homestead” means that it is not levied on homeowners’ primary residences. Generally, it applies to industrial, commercial and some agricultural property as well as second homes.
The state of Michigan requires districts to have this 18-mill nonhomestead levy in place in order to receive their full per-pupil funding from the state. If voters do not agree to levy the 18 mills, the state will not make up the difference, which makes the renewal critical for the district’s ongoing operation.
The renewal proposal is for five years.
Until 2024, the school board typically put the non-homestead operating millage on the ballot every year, but chose to seek a five-year renewal this year because of the expense of holding an election.
See SCHOOL MILLAGE, page 15
Soon, his name will be the first to be inscribed on a new veterans’ monument at Oak Grove Cemetery.
A dedication ceremony for the new monument will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, with a performance of the national anthem, a reading of the
Declaration of Independence, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of “Taps.” The public is invited to attend.
The idea for the new monument came about because of a conversation between Kent Deatrick of Morenci, who is Robert Deatrick’s son, and cemetery
sexton Eric Emmons. Emmons said he’d like it if the cemetery had a monument to all veterans in addition to its Civil War memorial, but that he didn’t know how it could be funded.
See MONUMENT, page 15
NEON LIGHTS AND COUNTRY NIGHTS
Lenawee County Fair will open on July 26 and run for seven days.
This year’s Lenawee County Fair runs from July 26 to Aug.
ADRIAN — “Neon Lights and Country Nights” is the theme of this year’s Lenawee County Fair, which opens on July 26. The fair is held the last week of July every year. The way the calendar
falls this year, the last day of the fair will actually be Aug. 1.
Admission to the fair is $5 per person (free for kids ages 9 and under). Free admission is available to people ages
1
65 and up on Tuesday, July 28; veterans on Wednesday, July 29; and active-duty military members on any day.
See FAIR, page 15
The
The fairgrounds are at 602 N. Dean St. in Adrian. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LENAWEE COUNTY FAIR
Summer Block Party series continues with ’80s night
MORENCI — The Morenci Downtown Development Authority invites the community to break out the neon, tease up their hair, and head downtown for the next Summer Block Party Concert on Friday, July 10, from 6 to 11 p.m.
This month’s theme is ’80s Night, featuring live music, food, costume contests, beer tents, and a fun summer evening in downtown Morenci.
Taking the stage at 6 p.m. is 56DAZE, a high-energy band that has been entertaining audiences throughout Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana for more than two decades. Known for their fully live performances, 56DAZE delivers a crowd-pleasing mix of classic rock, ’80s favorites, ’90s hits, modern charttoppers, and singalong party anthems that keep audiences dancing all night long.
Attendees are encouraged to embrace the ’80s theme by dressing in their favorite retro attire and participating in the evening’s costume contest.
Food vendors will begin serving at 6 p.m. and include Fade 2 Black BBQ, Rock Yo Taco, and Hannah’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice. Beer tents will be hosted by the Morenci Eagles and North Street Pub, and attendees may enjoy beverages within the designated Social District area while supporting local businesses.
Guests can also participate in the evening’s 50/50 raffle, with proceeds benefiting future downtown events, programs, and improvements.
For event setup and safety, Main Street from Summit Street to Baker Street will close beginning at 2 p.m. North Street will be closed to through traffic at West Locust Street.
The band 56DAZE is the featured entertainment for the July 10 Summer Block Party concert in downtown Morenci.
New dog grooming business up and running in Morenci
By Julie C. Clemes
Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — Bows & Toes, a dog grooming business owned by Morgan VanEpps, opened in January in downtown Morenci.
VanEpps works with her mother, Telisha Chaisson, in the business. She previously was at Playful Paws in Jackson, where she started working in the daycare area before switching to dog grooming.
VanEpps is from Brooklyn and moved to Morenci a year ago after she and her husband found the “perfect house” in Morenci.
The move has been a positive experience, VanEpps said.
“Everybody’s real friendly and the community is close,” she said. “It’s fantastic.”
She realized that there weren’t many dog groomers in the area and decided to start her own grooming business. The business has grown to service 99 regular customers.
VanEpps is a “one-on-one” groomer, so there is only one dog in the shop at a time. The salon is appointment-only to ensure the type of environment that is comfortable for the dog.
“It makes it stress-free,” she said. “It’s not noisy at all.”
“It’s just more comfortable for the anxious dog or the older dogs,” she continued.
VanEpps specializes in creative grooming, such as using pet-safe dye to color the dog’s coat or a spiral cut on the dog’s coat, as well as traditional grooming services.
Cost for grooming services depends on the weight of the dog and the type of grooming service the customer wants.
Small dogs are those that weigh under 20 pounds, medium dogs are 21 to 50 pounds, large dogs are 51 to 80 pounds, and extralarge dogs are 81 pounds or more.
Costs for a bath-and-brush range from $30 to $50 for a small dog, $50 to $60 for a medium dog, $60 to $75 for a large dog, and $75 to $95 for an extra-large dog.
The next level, a mini-groom, includes the bath-and-brush as well as a trim around the face and feet and a sanitary trim. A full groom adds a full coat trim.
Prices for grooming range from $50 for a mini-groom for a small dog to $135 for a full groom on an extra-large dog.
Other services include a de-shed at $15, a nail trim/dremel at $15, teeth brushing at $10, flea and tick treatment from $15 to $25, anal gland expression for $15, and nail polish at $10.
Creative grooming costs depend on the type of cut or dye treatment the customer is interested in.
Bows & Toes is located at 137 W. Main St. in Morenci. Contact the salon by phone or text at 517-740-4120, on Facebook by searching for “Bows and Toes,” or by email at BowsandToes25@gmail.com.
The
Morgan VanEpps, owner of Bows & Toes, is pictured with Dolly, demonstrating one of the creative dye treatments that VanEpps offers.
JULIE C. CLEMES/MORENCI ADVOCATE
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
THURSDAY, JULY 2
Independence Day Fireworks Celebration
Biddle Park, 600 Wood St., Wauseon, Ohio
The city of Wauseon’s annual Independence Day fireworks celebration. Gather your family, friends, lawn chairs, and blankets for an evening of community, patriotism, and an incredible fireworks display lighting up the Wauseon sky. Fireworks show begins at dusk.
SATURDAY, JULY 4
Veterans Monument Dedication
Oak Grove Cemetery, 12440 Lime Creek Highway (M-156), 1 p.m.
A new veterans monument will be dedicated at Oak Grove Cemetery. The Morenci American Legion will give a military ceremony with singing of national anthem, reading of the Declaration of Independence, a 21-gun salute, and “Taps.”
SUNDAY, JULY 5
America’s Potluck
Museum of Fulton County, 8848 State Route 108, Wauseon, Ohio, noon
America’s Potluck is an opportunity for neighbors to join one another to share a communal meal, creating a sense of connection and belonging. Save the date and plan to bring a dish to pass and seating for this potluck event at the museum. As part of the celebration, the Northwest Territory Chapter 37 of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution will present a program that will include the reading of the Declaration of Independence by soldiers (descendants of Revolutionary War soldiers) in period costume, recognition of the five Revolutionary War veterans buried in Fulton County, and the dedication of their America250 anniversary tree planted in Fulton County. Free, but please bring a dish to pass and your own seating. More info: museumoffultoncounty.org or 419-337-7922.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 8
Taco Night
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m. $10. More info: 517-458-2377.
Treats with T-Rex
Normal Memorial Library, 301 N. Eagle St., Fayette, Ohio, 11 a.m. to noon
A fun day with T-Rex featuring treats and sluicing. More info: fayette-nml.org or 419-237-2115.
FRIDAY, JULY 10
Summer Block Party Concert
Downtown Morenci, 6-11 p.m.
The Morenci Downtown Development Authority invites the community to break out the neon, tease up their hair, and head downtown for the next Summer Block Party Concert. This month’s theme is ’80s Night, featuring live music, great food, costume contests, beer tents, and a fun summer evening in downtown Morenci.
MONDAY, JULY 13
Lenawee Mobile Market
Jasper Bible Church, 8230 S. Adrian Hwy., Jasper, noon to 1 p.m.
Recurring the second Monday of each month from April to October (upcoming dates: July 13, Aug. 10, Sept. 14, Oct. 12). Meal kits, dairy, and fresh produce will be available to take home. No ID is required for pickup. Sponsored by City of Refuge Ministries International. More info: cityofrefugeministriesintl.com.
The Spanish Inquisition — Separating Myth from History
Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci, noon to 1 p.m.
This Road Scholar program is a one-hour lecture and Q&A about the legacy of the Spanish Inquisition. The Spanish Inquisition remains one of history’s most complicated institutions, its legacy shaped as much by legend and polemic as by archival record. Join linguist and historian Nettah Yoeli-Rimmer as he examines the Inquisition not simply as an instrument of religious persecution, but as a calculated tool of state-building under Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile. Explore how a fragmented kingdom gave rise to a unified Spanish identity and the Inquisition’s impacts on Spain’s Jewish community. www.stairlib.org or 517-458-6510.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
BBQ chicken sandwiches dinner
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, Morenci, 5-7 p.m.
$8. More info: 517-458-2377.
Bug Zoo with Kayla Wyse
Normal Memorial Library, 301 N. Eagle St., Fayette, Ohio, 11 a.m. to noon
Learn about different kinds of bugs and see them up close. More info: fayette-nml.org or 419-237-2115.
THURSDAY, JULY 16
Senior Discovery Days:
America250 Birthday Celebration
Museum of Fulton County, 8848 State Route 108, Wauseon, Ohio, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Gather with friends for a field trip close to home to experience the joy of learning from specialists in the field of local history. A $5 fee includes admission to the museum, light refreshments and a special program/activity/ guided tour (actual value of the experience is $25). Pre-registration is required. To register please call 419-337-7922, stop by the museum, or make reservations at the Fulton County Senior Center (if needing transportation). More info: museumoffultoncounty.org or 419-337-7922.
SATURDAY, JULY 18
Morenci Citywide Garage Sale
Note: Although Saturday is the official day, most sales begin on Thursday.
SUNDAY, JULY 19
America 250 Patriot Marker Dedication LenaweeHistorical Museum, 110 E. Church St., Adrian, 2 p.m.
The local Daughters of the American Revolution chapter will host an America250 Patriot Marker dedication at the Lenawee Historical Museum. A reception will follow at the Governor Croswell House, 228 N. Broad St., Adrian.
Live music with Linny & Moochie
Unitarian Church, 144 Morenci St., Lyons, Ohio, 6-7:30 p.m.
Music on the Lawn. Free and open to the public. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22
Health Care Careers Camp
Fulton County Health Center, 725 S. Shoop Ave., Wauseon, 1-4:30 p.m.
Throughout the day, students will explore a wide range of healthcare topics, from career pathways and medical terminology to the importance of confidentiality and infection control. They will also gain hands-on experience with wheelchair training and learn valuable skills they can start developing now. A highlight of the camp will be a behind-the-scenes tour of the hospital, including stops in the pharmacy, lab, psychiatric unit, emergency department, radiology, and more. The camp is free, but space is limited to the first 10 students who register. To reserve a spot, contact Mary Gautz at mgautz@ fulhealth.org or call 419-330-2695.
BLTs with pasta salad dinner
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m. $8. More info: 517-458-2377.
SATURDAY, JULY 25
Morenci Citywide Bulky Item Pickup
This service will be in addition to the normally scheduled garbage pickup on Wednesday, July 22. Refuse items must be placed at the curb before 7 a.m. If articles are placed at the curb after your street has been picked up, the crew will not return to that particular street. Garbage pickup is limited to residents of the city of Morenci only. A penalty will be charged if items from outside the city are found being brought into the city. A list of acceptable and unacceptable items can be found on the city website, www.cityofmorenci.org, or by contacting City Hall.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
Buffalo Chicken Wrap dinner
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m. $10.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
Fayette Bull Thistle Festival
Normal Grove Park, 406 N. Eagle St., Fayette, Ohio
Fayette’s annual Bull Thistle Festival.
City’s educational series on tree stewardship
MORENCI — The city of Morenci invites residents to attend “Growing the Tree Stewards Team,” the next free community education session offered through the city’s urban forestry program, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Stair District Library.
Led by master arborist Steve Lane, this interactive workshop is designed to build upon the knowledge gained throughout the city’s urban forestry educational series while helping participants take the next step in supporting Morenci’s urban forest.
The session will focus on expanding Morenci’s Tree Stewards program
by encouraging participants to share what they have learned, welcome new volunteers, and become advocates for the community’s trees. Attendees will review key lessons and skills from previous workshops, discuss ways residents can support local urban forestry efforts, and explore opportunities for future involvement. Participants will also take part in a guided tree walk to observe work completed through the city’s urban forestry program, including recent tree plantings, maintenance efforts, and other improvements throughout the community. Additional discussion topics
will include developing future Tree Steward leaders, creating resources to help new participants get started, and identifying priorities for the next phase of the Tree Stewards program. Whether you have attended previous workshops or are interested in learning more about Morenci’s trees, all residents are welcome. This workshop is a great opportunity to connect with fellow community members, learn about ongoing forestry initiatives, and help shape the future of Morenci’s urban forest.
Registration is free and available online through the city’s website,
cityofmorenci.org, or in person at Morenci City Hall.
Funding for this project is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service through the Urban and Community Forestry Program, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The City of Morenci, USDA Forest Service, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources are equal opportunity providers. For more information, contact Heather Sarnac, community and economic development director, at heather.sarnac@cityofmorenci.org or 517-429-0100.
Lenawee Community Foundation announces new leader
ADRIAN — The Lenawee Community Foundation board of directors announced in June that president and chief executive officer Bronna Kahle will retire from her role at the end of this year. Paula Trentman, currently executive vice president of the foundation, will succeed Kahle as the organization’s leader beginning Jan. 1.
Kahle served as president and CEO during a transformative season for the foundation, helping strengthen the organization internally while expanding its visibility, responsiveness, and impact across Lenawee County, according to a news release. Under her leadership, the foundation has experienced significant growth in charitable assets, donor engagement, grantmaking, and community leadership initiatives focused on improving Lenawee’s health, happiness, and hope in partnership with donors.
During Kahle’s tenure, the foundation successfully completed its $2 million Health, Happiness, and Hope Fund campaign, launching a stronger flexible grantmaking resource to help Lenawee County respond to current and future community needs. The foundation also expanded donor services, strengthened grantmaking and community partnerships, and increased organizational capacity to better serve Lenawee for the long term.
“Serving the Lenawee Community Foundation and the people of Lenawee County has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Kahle stated. “This work is deeply meaningful because it is ultimately about people, relationships, generosity, and community. I am incredibly humbled by what we have built together and deeply grateful to our donors, volunteers, nonprofit partners, staff, and board members for their trust, partnership, and shared commitment to this community.”
Kahle added that she has complete confidence in the foundation’s future leadership.
“Paula Trentman is exactly the right person to lead LCF into its next chapter,” Kahle said. “She brings decades of community foundation experience, strong relationships across Lenawee County, deep institutional knowledge, and, most importantly, a genuine
heart for serving others. The Lenawee Community Foundation will be in excellent hands.”
Trentman has served the Lenawee Community Foundation in various capacities for more than 25 years.
Throughout her tenure, she has played a key leadership role in grantmaking, donor stewardship, scholarships, nonprofit partnerships, and many of the foundation’s most important community initiatives and programs.
“LCF has always been about helping connect people who care with causes that matter,” Trentman said. “It has been a privilege to be part of this work for so many years, and I am honored by the trust the board has placed in me. Lenawee County is filled with generous people and strong community partners, and I look forward to building on that momentum together in the years ahead.”
Board chair Dave Hickman said the board is grateful for Kahle’s leadership and excited for the foundation’s future under Trentman’s direction.
“Bronna Kahle has provided exceptional leadership during an important season of growth and organizational strengthening for the Lenawee Community Foundation,” Hickman said.
Hickman added, “At the same time, the board is thrilled to announce Paula Trentman as LCF’s next president and
Fulton County Breakfast on the Farm program to return in June 2027
WAUSEON, Ohio — The Fulton County agricultural community is planning Breakfast on the Farm, a family-friendly event that will take place on Saturday, June 12, 2027 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sandland Farms in Swanton, Ohio.
The event will invite the public to enjoy a free, locally produced breakfast while experiencing agriculture up close through an engaging, close-to-home farm visit.
“Breakfast on the Farm gives the general public a first-hand look at modern food production,” said Amanda Podach, Fulton County Soil and Water Education Specialist. “As the gap between producer and consumer continues to grow, we are dedicated to offering an opportunity for the public to experience how farmers care for their animals, how they produce wholesome and safe food, and how they care for the land.”
Registered participants will enjoy a breakfast featuring an Ohio-grown, Ohio-produced menu, followed by a selfguided tour of the dairy farm located at 4397 County Road EF, Swanton. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to meet the Brehm families, owners and operators of Sandland Farms, and learn about key agricultural topics including biosecurity, animal wellbeing, grain bin safety, cow nutrition, milk quality and safety, and nutrient management. Additional tour stops will include the calf area, milking parlor, breeding barn, and cow housing. The event will also feature displays of tractors and farm equipment, children’s activities and opportunities to take a crop tour and interact with commodity groups.
Sandland Farms Inc. is a family owned and operated dairy farm that started in 1940, when Harold and Stella Brehm moved to Swanton from
the Wauseon area to begin the family farm. They began their operation with chickens, hogs and 15 cows. The farm is now in its fourth generation.
Fulton County Breakfast on the Farm is coordinated by the Fulton Soil and Water Conservation District, Ohio Farm Bureau Fulton County, and Ohio State University Extension of Fulton County, along with a community-based planning committee.
Registration for the Breakfast on the Farm event at Sandland Farms will be available at the beginning of 2027. Additional details about the event and links to the registration page will be shared on the Breakfast on the Farm Facebook and Instagram pages.
Guests may also contact the Fulton Soil and Water Conservation District, Fulton County Extension, or the Fulton County Farm Bureau for more information.
CEO. Paula is respected throughout Lenawee County and across the philanthropic community. She understands this work at every level, believes deeply in the mission of the Lenawee Community Foundation, and leads with both experience and heart.”
The Lenawee Community Foundation is a charitable organization created by and for the community. By collecting donations and investing them for lasting impact, the foundation funds grants, scholarships, and local initiatives to address community needs, support nonprofits, and enhance the wellbeing of Lenawee County. More than just an organization, the Lenawee Community Foundation is an opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to leverage the power of collective giving to make sure their community stays strong and supported for years to come.
A MONTHLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING MORENCI, MICHIGAN morenciadvocate.com lenaweevoice.com
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Bronna Kahle Paula Trentman
Morenci students among recipients of this year’s Lenawee County Education Foundation scholarships
ADRIAN — Several Morenci students were among the individuals chosen for scholarships awarded by the Lenawee County Education Foundation at its annual scholarship awards program this spring.
“This event is one of the highlights of what the foundation does,” said John Wanke, executive director of the Lenawee County Education Foundation. “It is a day of celebration and recognition of the hard work of these graduates, helping them move to the next phase of their adult lives with financial help for their future careers.”
Many of the scholarships honor the legacies of community members through memorial funds, while others support students pursuing specific academic, career, leadership, and service-related goals.
Community Service Scholarship: Katelyn Ruse.
Brenda Bobon Memorial Graduate Scholarship: Angela Hoffman (teacher at Morenci Elementary School).
Edward & Roberta Osburn Memorial Scholarship: Evelyn Joughin.
Stanley Caine Memorial Scholarship: Beau Shaffer.
Western Michigan University Scholarship in memory of Adam Nicola-Iott: Brady Pummell.
Adrian College Scholarships: Daniel Apger, Blake Moran.
Charles & Glenna Tipton First Generation Scholarship: Payton Hallett. Kayner Family Scholarship: Emmanuel DePalma.
Davis
Deerfield), and Brailey Gibson (Clinton). Not available for the
Don & Dorothy Smith First Generation Scholarship: Daniel Apger. Strokes for Students Scholarship: Talan Kruse.
Maurice & Dorothy Stubnitz Foundation Engineering Scholarship Renewal: Leah Rorick.
Women Educators Scholarship: Josette Zuvers.
Lenawee County Education Foundation Community Service Scholarship recipients are pictured with Pam and Jim Van Doren, representing the Sage Foundation. Standing, from left to right, are Tucker Cole (Tecumseh), Carliey Clack (Onsted), Isabella Lamley (Madison), Jesus Garces (Adrian), and Jaxon Salenbien (Lenawee Christian). Seated are Lilah
(Addison), Katelyn Ruse (Morenci), Hailey Sills (Blissfield), Adriana Rafalko (Britton
photo: Ellie Loar (Hudson).
School district expands college opportunities with Early College partnership
MORENCI — Morenci Area Schools is continuing to expand opportunities for students to earn college credit and prepare for future careers through its growing partnership with the Lenawee Intermediate School District and Jackson College.
For several years, Morenci students have benefited from dual enrollment opportunities, allowing them to earn college credits while still enrolled in high school.
During the 2025-26 school year, 17 Morenci students earned a combined 128 college credits, helping families save thousands of dollars on future college tuition while giving students a head start toward their college and career goals.
Building on this success, Morenci Area Schools has launched its Early College program, with five students currently enrolled. The Early College program provides students with the opportunity to earn significant college credit, industry credentials, and, potentially, an associate degree while remaining active in high school academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
As the program continues to grow, Morenci Area Schools is excited to expand access to college coursework by bringing Jackson College classes directly to Morenci High School. Beginning next spring, students will have the opportunity to take an in-person college course taught by a Jackson College professor on the Morenci campus.
This approach removes transportation barriers and provides students with a true college classroom experience close to home.
“Our goal is to create as many opportunities as possible for students to be successful after graduation,” said superintendent Jennifer Ellis.
“Our goal is to create as many opportunities as possible for students to be successful after graduation.”
— Jennifer Ellis, Morenci superintendent
“Whether a student plans to enter the workforce, pursue a skilled trade, earn a certificate, or attend a four-year university, the Early Middle College program and our partnership with Jackson College help students take meaningful steps toward those goals while still in high school.”
Through partnerships with the LISD and Jackson College, Morenci Area Schools is committed to providing students with innovative learning experiences that prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Families interested in learning more about dual enrollment or the Morenci Early College program can contact the Morenci High School counseling office.
Morenci Area Schools lists second-semester honor roll students
MORENCI — The Morenci school district has announced the secondsemester honor roll for the 2025-2026 school year.
Third grade: Dax Borton, Fritz Clore, Cassius Craig, Daniel Decker, Roman Erbskorn-Kass, Emberly Flores, Angeline Gierucki, Ezri Hall, Thomas Hoffman, Aurora Lantz, Jayde Pike, Logan Price, Sophia Simpson, Londyn Slovacek, Logan Snead, Scarlett Stucker, Lavannah Terry-Post, Alexander Thompson, Melody Walter, and James Wesson.
Fourth grade: Owen Edwards, Brayden Fee, Amelia Gehring, Helen Gruber, Grady McVay, Lindy Myers, Nova Rock, Bensyn Sanders, Brayden Scivoletto, Case Simpkins, Isaac Snyder, Gracelyn Timberman, and Devin Williams.
Fifth grade: Owen Apger, Bowen Bernath, Jase Conner, Colton Cox, Braylee Foster, Audrey Klinger, Paisley McMunn, Giada Milhoan, Westlynn Ruger, Quinn Taylor, and Madelyn Timberman.
Sixth grade: Chevy Alamia, Harvey Beaverson, Isabella Bongiorno, Phillip Cartis-Galand, Nolan Craig, Natalia Cummins, Brody Delaney, Nash Ekins, Logan Gierucki, Tyler Gilpin, Zoey Glass, Addison Guhl, Sofia Guillen, Dominic Harris, Amelia Harsh, Alexa Jimenez, Clara Johnson, Kobyn Lester, Rileigh Loudenslager, Reagan McGregor, Jasmine Meyers, Taylor Moran, Luke Myers, Michael Ohlinger II, Liam Overmyer, Lynden Sarnac, Ava Scivoletto, Emersyn Slovacek, Caylin Smith, Prudence Stuck, Declan Stucker, Claire Thompson, Trevor Vasher, and Rylee Votaw.
Seventh grade: Madison Ables, Marissa Ables, Bailey Adams, Harlee Bays, Isabella Borton, Aubrey Brown,
Charlie Dickerson, Denver Dominique, Savannah Easler, Sophia Easler, Brooke Edwards, Maximus ErbskornKass, Isaac Heilner, Maddox Joughin, Amelia Klinger, Tenley Kruse, Brooklyn Lulham, Jacob Marquez, Colton McVay, Mackenzie Meyers, Teagan Phillips, Nathan Sandusky, Annabelle Schmidt, Ace Shaffer, Crue Simpkins, Evan Stricklen, and Addilyn Williams.
Eighth grade: Madelyn Barnhart, Mackenzie Dial, Karon Fernando De Jesus, Nolan Fowler, James Gierucki, Sylus Herman, Alexander Kaufman, Makenzie Lulham, Elizabeth Mapes, Emilen Mossing, Elijah Rosenbrock, Carter Scivoletto, Maryn Shaffer, Izabella Stepansky, Aaron Stretch, and Bentley Zebolsky.
Freshmen: Jaylee Ables, Jordan Ekins, Tessa Gilpin, Kylee Grieder, Layla Myers, Aubrie Sandusky, Makinley Valentine, and Colsen Waltzer.
Sophomores: Brennen Harsh, Lillian Harsh, Drew Joughin, Alexander Lauffer, Jesse McClain, Baylie Miller, Audrey Price, Harrison Sarnac, and Brooklynn Slovacek.
Juniors: Mohamed Adow, Saule Amanova, Jillian Borton, Hailey Cleveland, Aly Curtis, Colbie Ekins, Rylee Frederick, Mariana Guillen, Savanna Miles, Lilly Roger, Sandro Saltkhutsishvili, Tameem Sarhan, Emilee Stretch, Jaelyn Thompson, Callie VanBrandt, Landon Wilkins, and Tessa Zuvers.
Seniors: Emersyn Bachelder, Rebecca Cox, Emmanuel DePalma, Lauryn Dominique, Evelyn Joughin, Talan Kruse, Rachel Meadows, Blake Moran, Katelyn Ruse, Alissa Sallows, Cassadie Sharp, Josephine Smith, Addyson Valentine, Jack Varga, and Dovydas Zubrickas.
Looking for a career with purpose? Join our team at the LISD!
Whether in a classroom, on a school bus, or in an office, our goal is the same: supporting and serving learners.
Careers at the LISD span a range of
City residents can leave bulky items on the curb for pickup on July 25
MORENCI — Morenci’s citywide bulky item pickup is Saturday, July 25. This service will be in addition to the normally scheduled garbage pickup on Wednesday, July 22.
Refuse items must be placed at the curb before 7 a.m. If articles are placed at the curb after that particular street has been picked up, the crew will not return.
Garbage pickup is limited to residents of the city of Morenci only. A penalty will be charged if items from outside the city are found being brought into the city.
A list of acceptable and unacceptable items can be found at cityofmorenci.org or by contacting City Hall.
Citywide
garage sale is third weekend
in July
MORENCI — The third weekend in July is Morenci’s annual citywide garage sale weekend. While Saturday is the official day for the citywide garage sale, most sales begin on Thursday.
Lenawee Youth Leadership camp returns in August
ADRIAN — The Lenawee Youth Council, a program of the Lenawee Community Foundation, is hosting a Lenawee Youth Leadership camp from Aug. 11-13 for youth across the county. This hands-on camp gives participants the opportunity to explore leadership through interactive activities led by trained facilitators. Campers will learn about youth assets, goal setting, problem solving, teamwork, communication, and the unique strengths of Lenawee County.
Camp sessions will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Youth ages 12 to 19 are welcome. Registration is required by July 31, and the cost is $30, with scholarships available. For more information, go to lenaweecommunityfoundation.com/ lenawee-youth-leadership-camp.
Farm-to-table dinner to benefit Habitat programs
ADRIAN — Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County’s annual farm-totable dinner fundraiser will take place on Friday, Aug. 14, in the Adrian Tobias Center at Adrian College.
The event features a meal sourced from local farms and locally owned retailers. Tickets are $75 and may be ordered online at habitat-lenawee.org.
Applications now open for Knight Fund grants
ADRIAN — The Lenawee Community Foundation is accepting applications through Aug. 1 for the 2026 V.C. and Velma Knight Memorial Fund grants. Grants are awarded to programs that address basic needs, health, and human services in Lenawee County.
Priority will be given to proposals that provide direct services to individuals and families, leverage resources through partnerships or matching funds, can be sustained without ongoing foundation support, encourage collaboration and avoid duplication of existing services, and promote volunteerism and community involvement.
For more information, go to lenaweecf.com or contact Madison Roberts at 517-263-4696 or madison@ lenaweecf.com.
‘George M!’ at the Croswell is packed with familiar tunes
ADRIAN — You may not know George M. Cohan’s name, but you probably know his work.
Cohan, who grew up in a performing family at the end of the 19th century, started out in vaudeville. As an adult, he became known as “the man who owned Broadway,” writing dozens of shows and publishing more than 300 songs over the course of his illustrious career.
Those songs include “You’re A Grand Old Flag,” “The Yankee Doodle Boy” (more commonly known by its first line, “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy”), and “Give My Regards to Broadway,” as well as the rousing anthem “Over There,” which became synonymous with the U.S. military during World War I and World War II.
The musical “George M!” tells the story of Cohan’s life. It begins with his childhood, when he performed in a vaudeville troupe with his parents and sister, and follows his journeys as a Broadway singer, dancer, composer, and director.
The Croswell Opera House will present “George M!” for two weekends this month, beginning July 10 and running through July 19.
Many of Cohan’s songs have a patriotic flair, befitting the Croswell’s July time slot during the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The role of George M. Cohan is played by Will DuPuis, who is from Toledo but now lives and works in New York.
Croswell regulars may remember DuPuis as Davey in the theater’s 2024 production of “Newsies,” or as the ill-fated Count Ipolitov in last summer’s “Anastasia.”
Steve Antalek and Michelle Force, both music educators in the Adrian
school district, play George’s parents, Jerry and Nellie Cohan. His sister, Josie, is played by Ana Morgan of Ann Arbor.
The cast also includes Katherine Dolson, Olivia Dolson, Bobby Lindsey, Lori MacDonald, Kyler Mattoon and Eli Stachowske, all of Adrian; Nicole Harris of Ann Arbor; Kina Eby of Deerfield; Lane Hakel of Hudson; Chad Mohler and Gabriel Mohler of Lambertville; Nevaeh Bravo of Manchester; Lila Brighton and Erica Murray of Onsted; Arlo Ringle of Saline; George Reasoner of Tecumseh; Yasmeen Perrin of Perrysburg, Ohio; Ella Stoll of Sylvania; and Nathan Glover of Toledo.
In addition to Cohan’s most memorable tunes, “George M!” is filled with high-energy dance numbers — including lots of tapdancing — choreographed by Meghan C. Hakes and led by dance captain Ashley Thornton Murdock.
The director is John MacNaughton. The vocal director is Wynne Marsh, and the live orchestra will be conducted by Ray Novak.
The Croswell, which is celebrating its 160th year in operation, is located at 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Tickets to “George M!” 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.
Show dates and times
n Friday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m.
n Saturday, July 11 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
n Sunday, July 12 at 2:30 p.m.
n Thursday, July 16 at 7:30 p.m.
n Friday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m.
n Saturday, July 18 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.
n Sunday, July 19 at 2:30 p.m.
Gleaner flag exchange raises more than $6,400
ADRIAN — More than 150 worn American flags were exchanged and $6,460 raised for housing for veterans at the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Flag Exchange on June 10.
Lenawee County residents were invited to exchange one worn U.S. flag for a new one in time for Flag Day and Independence Day. Old flags
are respectfully retired through a partnership with a local veterans group.
Donations were accepted for Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County’s Veterans Build Fund. Matching $2,500 donations by Gleaner Life and the Joseph Wildberg Fund for Veterans more than tripled the impact from participants’ donations.
The cast of “George M!” at the Croswell Opera House includes Michelle Force, Steve Antalek, Ana Morgan, and Will DuPuis. PHOTO BY TAYLEEN THIESEN
Family Researchers group has been providing genealogy resources for 50 years
By Julie C. Clemes
The Lenawee Voice
ADRIAN — When America celebrated its bicentennial in 1976, a group of individuals from Lenawee County started a group to research family ancestry. This group, the Lenawee County Family Researchers, is still going strong, and was recently recognized by the Michigan Genealogical Council for marking its 50th anniversary.
Bob Wessel, vice president of the Lenawee County Family Researchers, said that the bicentennial brought an “increase across the board” in interest in history, including family history.
“That drove the creation of a lot of organizations dedicated to history, family history, genealogy, et cetera,” he said.
The Lenawee County group started with a handful of people and has since grown to 40 members. The longestserving member is Keith Derbyshire, who volunteers at the Lenawee County Historical Society as well.
The most important aspect of the group, Wessel said, is the common interest the members have in family history research. Anyone interested in family research can join the group, where they are attached with a mentor who can help them get started on their own research. The focus of the group is to share research experiences to find ways to “break through the brick walls” that they may find while doing family research.
The group meetings feature presenters who speak on a variety of topics related to family research. Presenters have included members of the group, representatives from libraries and archives, and funeral directors who speak on information that can be found in obituaries as well as funeral customs.
“Quite frankly, we’re chasing dead people, so you’ve got to know about the funeral stuff,” Wessel said.
“It’s difficult to trace family history without a fundamental understanding of the historical environment in which they lived,” he continued. That information might include the size of the family, what kind of work
someone performed, and if they moved throughout their lifetime.
Wessel said that he himself got started on researching his own family in 1971, when he was stationed with the military in Vietnam. At that time, the process of requesting a form for a birth certificate was done through the mail. Actually getting the form could take as long as two months.
“The problem with that system is that by the time you’d get the information, you’d forget what the question was,” he said.
Now most vital records are digitized and can be accessed easily through the internet and email.
“Everything is right there,” Wessel said.
Vital records used in research can include birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, obituaries, property records, wills, Probate Court records, and census records. Online databases such as ancestry.com, FamilySearch, and Fold3, a database specifically for military records, are also used in family research.
Both the Adrian District Library and the Lenawee District Library can provide access to family history information from the Latter Day Saints.
Wessel said online sources are “the tip of the iceberg” of information available for family research. Courthouse records are a valuable source of information that might not be included in online sources, for example.
Helping each other research their family history is one part of the group’s activities. Field trips are scheduled throughout the year, including a recent trip to the Allen County Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, which houses the second largest collection of genealogical information in the United States. The group also hosts potluck dinners and picnics.
The Lenawee County Family Researchers group meets at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. More information is available on Facebook at Lenawee County Family Researchers, on the website at lcfamilyresearchers. wixsite.com, or by email at lcfamilyresearchers@gmail.com.
Bikes and critters
“Nice day for a ride,” says Dr. Routemeister as we pedal along on our weekly bike ride.
“Indeed!” I say. Looking in my rear view mirror I see Sergio and Hiker-theBiker right behind us.
“TURTLE!” hollers Routemeister, swerving to miss a big fellow who’s warming up this cool morning on the sunny asphalt in the middle of the trail.
When we see turtles trying to cross a road, we stop and help them off the road, being careful if the critter is a turtle of the snapping variety. This Painted Turtle is safe on the trail, so we leave it alone to dream turtle dreams.
A half-mile later, as we exit the trail and head out on a road, a skunk scampers across in front of us, heading into tall grass beside the road. Instinctively and non-stinkily, we all slow down to give the critter lots of leeway. It
LOOKING OUT
JIM WHITEHOUSE
reminds me of the time we had to race full speed along a country road to stay well ahead of a farmer over-spraying liquid pig manure along the edge of his field next to the road.
“That’s the first time I remember seeing a live skunk on one of our rides,” I say to Dr. Routemeister as we pick up speed again.
“I agree,” he says. “I’ve seen them at night in my yard. Never got sprayed.”
“Same here.” I say. “And I only remember seeing one coyote during a ride,” I say.
“A million deer, plenty of raccoons, woodchucks, eagles, squirrels, and other stuff.”
“One owl, once,” I say. “Loose goats, ducks, frogs, a Highland Sheep, an entire
herd of cattle, horses — we’ve seen lots of dogs too. And cats.”
“Thankfully, the cats don’t chase us like the dogs do,” says Sergio.
“Remember the time a goose chased us?” says Routemeister.
A bit further down the road, Hiker says, “There’s something on the road ahead.”
A huge Turkey Vulture spreads its wings and flies away from a pancakeflattened dead squirrel on the road.
“We should ride at night to see more animals,” says Hiker. “Owls, foxes, coyotes, bandits, muggers — who knows?”
“Good idea, Hiker. I’ll meet you out on the highway at midnight. I might not have any lights on my bike so you may not even see me,” says Sergio with a laugh.
We spread out a bit as we go down a steep hill at high speed. All of a sudden, a deer leaps onto the road from the woods and charges across right in front of me. I don’t even have time to hit the brakes, but I do have time to hope there’s not another one right behind the first.
There isn’t.
LENAWEE COUNTY FOOD RESOURCES
FOOD PANTRIES
Adrian First Church of the Nazarene 50 Industrial Court, Adrian Every other Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon. Call 517-263-1579 for dates.
Family Medical Center
1200 N. Main St., Adrian Second and fourth Saturday of every month; register by the Wednesday before distribution. Delivery available in Adrian. 517-263-1800.
Fishes and Loaves (First United Methodist Church and Neighbors of Hope)
1245 W. Maple Ave., Adrian Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to noon; call 517-759-4421 for appointments.
St. Vincent de Paul at St. Joseph Campus (Holy Family Parish) 415 Ormsby St., Adrian Wednesday and Friday, 1-3 p.m.; limit one visit per month. 517-759-3233.
Holy Family Parish, St. Mary Campus 305 Division St., Adrian Monday and Thursday, 1-3 p.m.; limit one visit per month. 517-266-0378.
Salvation Army
217 W. Church St., Adrian Monday and Thursday, 8:30-11:30 a.m.; call 517-265-2038 for appointment. Limit once per month.
Lutheran Church of the Lakes Indoor Blessing Cupboard
8800 U.S. 223, Addison Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon; Sundays, 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. 517-547-4261.
St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church/ Blissfield Ministerial Association
306 E. Jefferson St., Blissfield Call 517-486-1457 on Monday or Tuesday between 8 a.m. and noon to schedule pickup on Thursday between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. For area residents.
Clinton United Methodist Church 10990 Tecumseh-Clinton Road, Clinton Second Thursday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon. For Clinton school district residents. 517-605-9303.
Deerfield Light of Christ Parish 222 Carey St., Deerfield Second Wednesday of the month from 1-2 p.m.; for area residents. 517-447-3500, ext. 13.
Hudson Ministerial Association 211 Mechanic St., Hudson Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., except for holidays. For area residents. 517-448-6411.
Thornhill Baptist Church
4560 S. Meridian Road, Hudson Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are welcome. 517-448-7687.
Manitou Road Baptist Church 175 Manitou Road, Manitou Beach Call 517-547-5516 for appointment.
As we bunch up again at the bottom of the hill, I tell the guys about the time I was riding along a road alone and saw an old fan belt coiled up on the shoulder. As I went by, the old fan belt turned into a snake and actually struck at me. I heard its hard little head ping off one of my spokes.
“It was a good thing it bounced off the spoke instead of going through the wheel,” I say.
“What kind of snake was it?” asks Hiker.
“A mean one that looked exactly like an old fan belt,” I say.
“Probably a Massasauga Rattler,” says Routemeister.
“I hope so,” I say. “It makes a much better story if it’s a poisonous snake. Sergio has ridden out ahead of the rest of us and suddenly swerves.
“What did you swerve for?” I holler.
“Kangaroo,” comes the answer.
Jim Whitehouse grew up in Morenci, practiced law for 20 years in Hudson, and now lives in Albion.
FRESH FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS
City of Refuge Ministries
327 Erie St., Adrian First Thursday of every month at noon.
Salvation Army
St. Mary on the Lake Catholic Church 450 Manitou Road, Manitou Beach Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon. 517-547-7496.
Morenci Church of the Nazarene 751 N. Summit St., Morenci Tuesdays by appointment; available to area residents. 517-306-8947.
New Song Community Church 5211 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh Thursdays, 1-3 p.m.; limit once every two weeks. 517-423-3676.
City of Refuge Ministries Meal Assistance Program 109 E. Logan St., Tecumseh Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Walk-ins welcome; deliveries available. cityofrefugeministriesintl.com.
Tecumseh Service Club
Services provided as needed for area residents; email tecumsehserviceclub2020@gmail.com.
Tecumseh United Methodist Church
605 Bishop Reed Drive, Tecumseh Second and fourth Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. 517-423-2523.
Tipton Community Church/ God’s Helping Hands 9420 Tipton Hwy., Tipton Call 517-431-2460 for appointment.
217 W. Church St., Adrian First and third Tuesday from 8:30-10:30 a.m. 517-265-2038.
Lenawee Mobile Market Meal kits, dairy and fresh produce available at various locations on the second Monday of each month, April through October.
Riverview Terrace, 400 College Ave., Adrian: 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Jasper Bible Church, 8230 S. Adrian Hwy., noon to 1 p.m.
St. Peter the Apostle Church/ Knights of Columbus 309 S. Lane St., Blissfield Second Friday of the month, 4 p.m. until gone. 517-270-2232.
Morenci Bible Fellowship Church
240 Salisbury St., Morenci First Thursday, 2-4 p.m. 517-458-2276.
Springville United Methodist Church 10341 Springville Hwy., Onsted Fourth Thursday of each month, 3 p.m. until gone. 517-467-4471.
Tecumseh Church of the Nazarene 1001 N. Union St., Tecumseh Second Tuesday of the month, 4 p.m. until gone. 517-423-4960.
Tecumseh Seventh-Day Adventist Church 6759 S. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh Third Friday of every month; 11 a.m. until all boxes are gone. 517-423-2800.
HOT MEALS
The Daily Bread
302 S. Tecumseh St., Adrian Meals served Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. dailybreadlenawee.org.
Salvation Army
217 W. Church St., Adrian Served Monday and Wednesday, 4-5 p.m. Tecumseh Church of Christ/ God’s Bread Basket
312 W. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. 567-703-0551 or 517-265-3608.
Tipton Community Church/ God’s Helping Hands
9240 Tipton Hwy., Tipton Meals served via drive-through on the second Saturday of each month, 3:45-5 p.m., while supplies last.
BLESSING BOXES
The organization Hope in Action (hopeinaction19@gmail.com) supplies the following blessing boxes in Adrian:
n Corner of South Scott Street and College Avenue (white box).
n Abundant Life Church, 1120 E. Maple Ave. (blue box).
n First United Methodist Church, 1245 W. Maple Ave. (red box).
n Reformed Baptist Church, 2667 Bent Oak Ave (red box).
This directory of food resources was compiled from a mixture of information published by the Lenawee County MSU Extension and information sent to the Voice for publication. To submit additions, changes or corrections, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.
As the United States marks its 250th birthday, we take a look back at this centennial celebration that took place in Morenci on July 4, 1876. This photo was taken at the corner of Main and North streets. It shows Abraham Babcock walking a tightwire from Rorick’s Hardware to the former Mace Building on the northeast corner. The Morenci Exchange sign and village pump are visible in the street, and the bakery and grist mill can be seen in the distance. —
25 YEARS AGO
In the Morenci Town & Country Festival Queen Pageant, Jamie Smith of Madison was named the queen, Tiffany Powers of Morenci won the teen title, Brianna Sutherland of Adrian won the Little Miss contest, and Chloe Molitierno won the Tiny Tot contest.
Robert Gentry, an arborist from Adrian, was hired to visit Oak Grove Cemetery to see what was causing the leaves on many trees there to wilt.
50 YEARS AGO
The Morenci Slo-Pitch Softball Tournament brought 28 teams to Wakefield Park, with many of them camping in the park over the Fourth of July weekend.
Dr. R.A. Diccion was re-elected as president of the Morenci school board. James Lockhart was elected vice president, Lois Speed as secretary, and Richard Emmons as treasurer.
Fourth-graders at Morenci Elementary made a record album, with proceeds from the sale helping fund their fifth-grade trip the following year to Camp High Hope.
MORENCI — A reunion for Morenci classes from the 1930s to 1990s will be held on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Morenci Eagles.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; pictures will be taken starting at 7 p.m. Tacos, nachos, or taco salad will be available for $10; please RSVP for the meal. For more information, call 517-401-0346 or email morencialumni@ gmail.com.
Adrian High School Class of 1959: The class of ‘59 will have their annual get-together on Friday, Oct. 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at ZZ’s Bar & Grill, 520 College Ave., Adrian.
Adrian High School Class of 1966: The 60th reunion will take place on Saturday, Aug. 22, at Hills of Lenawee Golf Club, 4110 Country Club Road, Adrian. For more information, contact Karen (Woerner) Collins, 517-263-4702.
75 YEARS AGO
Bernard M. Williamson, an attorney from Morenci, was recommended by the Democratic Executive Committee of Lenawee County for appointment to a probate judge vacancy.
A crew of entertainers from WSPD-TV in Toledo were lined up to appear at Morenci’s Harvest Festival.
Gaylord Kime, a 15-year-old from Morenci, drowned in Silver Creek after slipping from the bank into an eight-foot hole.
Adrian High School Class of 1968: The class of ’68 is having its 58th reunion on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 3-8 p.m., at the Riga Township Fire Station, 7817 Riga Hwy., Riga. RSVP to Barb Beebe Kirkendall (barblkirk@hotmail.com) or Susan Rink Arbaugh (Susanra662@ gmail.com).
Adrian High School Class of 1971: The 55th class reunion will be on the weekend of Aug. 7. A meet-and-greet at 4:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at Downtown Dempsey’s, 136 E. Maumee St., will be followed by a pub crawl and tour of the Croswell Opera House. The reunion is at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at ZZ’s Sports Bar & Grill, 520 College Ave., Adrian. RSVP by July 23 to Judy (Salazar) Prior, PO Box 910, Saline, MI 48176.
Adrian High School Class of 1976: The class of ’76 will have their 50th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Hills of Lenawee Country Club, 4110 Country Club Road, Adrian. For more
Sons of Union Veterans organization welcomes new members
BLISSFIELD — If you have an ancestor who wore Union Blue in the Civil War, or if you have an interest in preserving the memory of those who did, you can qualify for membership in the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, commonly referred to as “The Sons.” The organization is inviting new members to join in their mission to perpetuate the memory of the Grand Army of the Republic and those who served to save the Union during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865.
100 YEARS AGO
The sixth annual reunion of the Crowe family was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Brink.
S.E. Rupp and Glenn Sowle of Morenci were joining forces with Louis Rychener of Blissfield to open a new hatchery on South Maumee Street in Tecumseh.
The Morenci Telephone Company reminded customers that telephone rental payments were due.
— From the Observer archives
The Sons assist in the preservation of documents and records pertaining to the Grand Army of the Republic, and in making those documents available for research. They strive to honor all who have served the United States in any war, and to teach patriotism and the duties of citizenship, the history of the U.S., and the love and honor of its flag.
Anyone interested in helping with this work is invited to become one of “The Sons” by aligning with the NashHodges Camp, which is the local chapter of Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. This Camp serves members in both Lenawee and Monroe counties.
The group meets monthly, alternating between the Blissfield Depot Museum and the Tecumseh Historical Museum.
For more information, contact Greg Sebring at 517-270-7397 or email mspblue@gmail.com.
reunion set for Aug. 15
information, contact James Gilmartin, james.gilmartin@yahoo.com.
Adrian High School Class of 1986: The 40th reunion will take place on Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Adrian Eagles, 2570 W. Beecher Rd., Adrian. For more information, contact Jackie Peterson, kooterjakeb4@yahoo.com.
Clayton: A Clayton reunion will take place at Clayton Town Hall at noon on Saturday, Aug. 1 for lunch. RSVP to 517797-9649 or dianekmills@yahoo.com.
Madison High School Class of 1976: The Class of ’76 will hold its 50th reunion on Saturday, Aug. 15. For details, contact Julie June Selders at 517-442-7743.
Madison ’72 addresses sought: The Madison High School Class of 1972 is looking for classmate addresses for its 55th class reunion scheduled in 2027. Contact either Vickie Clymer Smolinski at vsmolinski54@gmail.com or Michele Hanson Perkins at mpgardengirl@gmail. com.
Onsted all-school reunion: Onsted’s all-school reunion is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 1, from 1-4 p.m. at Onsted High School. The 50th-year class of 1976 will be honored. Special recognition will also be given to yearbook and journalism alumni and staff. For more information, email onstedalumni@gmail.com.
Tecumseh High School Class of 2006: The class of ‘06 will have their 20th reunion on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Tecumseh Legion, 101 W. Pottawatamie St., Tecumseh. For more information, contact Jessica_MWilson@yahoo.com.
Bixby/Herrick Hospitals Reunion: A reunion for all employees, volunteers, or physicians from Bixby or Herrick hospitals will take place on Sunday, Sept. 13, from 1-4 p.m., at Hidden River North clubhouse, 975 W. Beecher St., Adrian.
OBITUARIES
Ronald Merillat
HUDSON — Ronald Lewis Merillat, 80, of Hudson died on June 22.
He was born in Hudson on July 6, 1945, to Donald and Emma Merillat.
He married Susan McCaskey in 1965, and she survives.
After graduating from Morenci High School in 1963, he earned degrees from Michigan State University and Florida State University. He dedicated his career to education, working in schools in Dansville, Fayette, Blissfield, Morenci, and Waldron. He served as a teacher, principal, and superintendent.
He found great joy in farming alongside his father, Donald, and his brother, Jack. He was a member of Fayette Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He served the church as an elder, Sunday School teacher, board president, and Vacation Bible School leader.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Scott (Raquel) Merillat; daughters, Kimberly (Robert) Mossing and Jennifer (John) Gould; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Mary (Dennis) Austin; sisters-in-law, Carol and Rosie Merillat; and his brothers- and sisters-inlaw, Bill (Joyce) McCaskey, Duane (Arlene) McCaskey, Rita (Dick) Borton, Annabelle Peterson, Peggy (Larry) Johnson, Vickie McCaskey, Karen (Robert) Beck, and Larry McCaskey.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Jack Merillat, and his brothers-in-law, Richard (Mary Ellen) McCaskey, Robert (Luella) McCaskey, and Jim McCaskey. — marryfh.com
Lucy Ann Ackland
MORENCI — Lucy Ann White Ackland, formerly of Morenci, died on June 6 in Boyne City.
Jack Palms
ADRIAN — Jack Christopher Palms, age 73, of Adrian, formerly of Morenci, died on June 9.
He was born on Dec. 2, 1952, in Lima, Ohio, the son of Howard and Ruth (Hayward) Palms.
He grew up in Morenci and graduated from Morenci High School with the class of 1971. He married Debbie Heath in 1977.
He had a lifelong passion for photography, a selftaught skill that became his primary occupation. He started out serving as a traveling photographer for Sears before founding and operating Jack’s Portraits in Adrian for many years. A nature lover, he loved being outdoors where he could be active kayaking, fishing, bike riding, target shooting and camping. He had a special affinity for Lake Hudson and Lake Michigan. He also collected coins, made his own wine, and was skilled at writing poetry.
He is survived by two sons, Chad Palms of Sand Creek and Craig (Allison) Palms of Birmingham; one daughter, Jillian (Kyle) Hamlin of Adrian; brother, Tim (Barb) Palms; sister, Michelle (Shawn) Rogers; seven grandchildren; one great-grandson; and his special friend of many years, Linda Palmer. He was preceded in death by a brother, Gary Palms, and two sisters, Cheryl Davis and Becky Church.
— marryfh.com
Timothy Sands
MORENCI — Timothy Allen Sands, age 64, of Harrison, formerly of Morenci, died on June 9.
He was born in Wauseon, Ohio, on Sept. 14, 1961, to Charles and Wilma (Henson) Sands.
She was born in Petoskey on Sept. 15, 1942, the daughter of of Marjorie Louise White Ackland and Arthur Dicran Ackland. She was the valedictorian of Morenci Area High School’s class of 1960, after which she spent three years at Albion College, where she was a fourth-generation member of Delta Gamma sorority. She completed two years at Detroit School of Law and earned her bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and her master’s degree in special education from the University of Miami. She taught for 28 years in Miami-Dade Public Schools in Florida, and retired to her mother’s hometown of Boyne City in 1998.
She is survived by her sister, Pam (Vance) Lockeby of Bitely; brother, Robert (Sandra) Ackland of Gainesville, Georgia; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Amy Louise Ackland. — carebynelsons.com
He served 12 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. His career was spent as a corrections officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections. He served his hometown of Morenci over the years in positions of reserve police officer, firefighter, and EMT. He was a member of the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans. He was also a lifetime member of the United States Military Vets Motorcycle Club.
He is survived by his children, Christopher (Brittany) Sands of Morenci, Kendra Sands of Harrison, and Cheyenne (Skyler) Sands of Bryan, Ohio; five grandchildren; and his sisters, Julie (Mark) Bachman of Morenci, Patricia Collar of Morenci, Linda (Dave) Smith of Englewood, Florida, Susan (Bill) Zook of Adrian, and Judy (Marty) Sunday of Morenci. He was preceded in death by his sister, Ardyth Sands.
— marryfh.com
OBITUARIES IN THE MORENCI ADVOCATE
Lenawee Independent Media considers obituaries to be part of our local news coverage. Because of this, there is no charge to publish an obituary in the Morenci Advocate, but obituaries will be edited for length and style. We make every effort to locate obituaries on our own, but if you would like to submit an obituary that you think we might miss, please email news@lenaweevoice.com
Jack Palms
Timothy Sands
Ronald Merillat
Lucy Ann Ackland
from page 1 Monument from page 1
Deatrick remembered that his mother, Betty, had set up an investment account in the 1990s in order to fund scholarships, but scholarships hadn’t been awarded from it in some time. The money was still there, however. So he began investigating how it could be used to make the dream of a veterans’ monument at Oak Grove Cemetery into a reality.
The result is a 6,000-pound black granite monument that is expected to be installed on July 2 or 3 by Fackler Monument Company out of Montpelier, Ohio. Even if installation is delayed, Deatrick said, the dedication will still take place on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Deatrick’s family has a legacy of military service. In addition to his father, his mother had two brothers in the service — William Price, who served in the Navy and was lost at sea, and Vernon Harper.
Deatrick’s brother, Kirk, will speak at the dedication, and his nephew, Adam Vereecke, designed the monument.
The monument was designed with space for about 1,000 names to be inscribed on the back, which means it will be a work in progress. Deatrick plans to get the ball rolling by having his father and two uncles’ names etched into the granite, and anyone can have a veteran’s name added to it just by paying for the cost of inscription.
Deatrick said Jim Clark of American Legion Post 368 has been working on details of the dedication ceremony.
Commemorative T-shirts will be available and can be ordered at the dedication.
School millage
The most recent operating millage renewal for Morenci Area Schools, in May 2024, was approved by a 3-to-1 margin.
The renewal will not increase the tax rate paid on any of the properties
Fair
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Fair hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Rides on the Midway are available from Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 2 p.m.
Sunday, July 26 (Queens’ Day)
Fair parade: Lineup begins at 11:30 a.m. along College Avenue and Michigan Avenue west of downtown. The parade will begin at 1 p.m. and proceed east along Maumee Street, through downtown, and end at the fairgrounds.
10 a.m.: Sand Creek Community Church service.
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Car and bike cruise-in.
2 p.m.: Michigan Pedal Pullers in the Grandstand.
6 p.m.: Earl Kelly Memorial Pull in the Grandstand.
7 p.m.: Lenawee County Fair Queen pageant in the bandshell.
Monday, July 27
4 p.m.: 4-H Performing Arts and Project Runway.
7 p.m.: Figure 8 car and truck demolition derby in the Grandstand.
8 p.m.: 4-H Lip Sync Battle.
that are subject to the non-homestead operating levy.
Non-homestead operating levies have been part of Michigan’s school funding system ever since the passage of Proposal A in 1994.
Proposal A shifted much of the cost of school operations from local communities to the state, but did not completely remove the requirement
Tuesday, July 28 (Senior Citizens’ Day)
9 a.m.: 4-H Dog Show.
2 p.m.: Elvis tribute artist.
2:30 p.m.: Music by Gramberry Jam.
7 p.m.: Adrian City Band in the bandshell.
7 p.m.: KOI Dirt Drags in the Grandstand.
8:30 p.m.: Music by Tommy Sargent in the bandshell.
Wednesday, July 29 (Veterans’ Day)
11 a.m.: Veterans’ luncheon in the bandshell.
4 p.m.: Queen contestants’ talent revue.
6 p.m.: 4-H small animal sale in the Show Barn.
7 p.m.: Figure 8 car and truck demo in the Grandstand.
7 p.m.: Music by Electrik Mayhem in the bandshell.
Thursday, July 30 (Kids’ Day)
3 p.m.: Storm Cheer & Dance in the bandshell.
6 p.m.: 4-H dairy feeder calf sale in the Show Barn.
7 p.m.: Lost Nations Rodeo in the Grandstand.
7 p.m.: Journey tribute by Infinity & Beyond in the bandshell.
for some local funding of school districts.
Other area ballot proposals
Waldron Area Schools also has a nonhomestead operating levy renewal on the ballot. This renewal is for four years. Medina Township voters will decide on a millage renewal of just under 2 mills to fund roads and bridges.
Friday, July 31 (Ag Day)
1 p.m.: 4-H Food Eating Contest.
6 p.m.: 4-H junior livestock sale in the Show Barn.
7 p.m.: Diesel and gas truck pull in the Grandstand.
7 p.m.: Music by Los Hermanos in the bandshell.
Saturday, Aug. 1 (Merchants’ Day)
1 p.m.: Adrian Junior Majorettes in the bandshell.
2:30 p.m.: MST Dance Studio in the bandshell.
4 p.m.: Bark’s Tales in the bandshell.
7 p.m.: Tuff Truck & Car Competition in the Grandstand.
7 p.m.: Music by JTE in the bandshell.
The Lenawee County Fair & Event Grounds are at 602 N. Dean St., Adrian. For more information and tickets to ticketed events, go to lenfair.com.
