Fowlerville News and Views Online

Fowlerville News & Views Online Edition January 27, 2013

Katie Bowling is this year’s Fowlerville Community Schools ‘Teacher of the Year’

“Great kids” are what Fowlerville ‘Teacher of the Year’, Katie Bowling, about her job

By Steve Horton “The kids are what are great about this job,” said Katie Bowling when asked what she enjoyed about teaching.

“Over the years and every day, they have been amazing individuals. I’ve been very lucky. I love what I’m doing.

It’s never boring, never the same. The kids make it fresh.

They are so dynamic and so interesting.”

Her perspective on “kids” has been centered on the middle-school age group, including 6th, 7th, and 8th grade classes. Currently, she teaches both 7th grade English and Social Studies, although English (Language Arts) has been her mainstay over the years.

Bowling, marking her 19th year at the Fowlerville Community Schools, was named as the district’s ‘Teacher of the Year’ this past fall. She had been nominated for the honor previously when she was named as the Munn Middle School’s ‘Teacher of the Year’ in 1998.

Katie, who was born in 1970, grew up in Ypsilanti. Her father, Tom Manchester, is an attorney, and her mother, Mary, a teacher. She has two older brothers and a younger brother. While in high school, she played soccer on the boy’s team, noting that a girl’s team was not available then.

“Soccer was a biggie for me,” she said. “I started on the varsity. Having three brothers helped push and prepare me.”

She was also on the golf team, participated in theater, sang in the choir as a first soprano, and served as the editorial editor on the high school paper, the ‘Ypsi Sem’.

She gradated from Ypsilanti High School in 1988 and attended Michigan State University with the goal of having a career in advertising.

“I liked humor, and I liked to write, so I thought it would be a great component to bring to advertising,” she noted. “But in my senior year I switched my goal to education. I had talked to a professor who told me that advertising was a cutthroat business and that I should plan to live a big city if I wanted to pursue this career. I’m only cutthroat when it comes to playing sports, and I wanted to live in a small town.”

Having invested over three years in college, Bowling thought her parents would be upset about her sudden change-of-mind. Instead, she said, “they were thrilled and told me that they thought I’d make a great teacher.”

The switch added another year of classes, so she graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor of Arts degree that included dual minors in Social Studies and Language Arts. After student teaching a first grade class, Bowling started looking for work with a kindergarten thru eighth grade endorsement.

Two factors brought her to Fowlerville. One was that the district had just passed a bond issue and was planning to hire additional teachers. She was aware of this because her mother’s cousin, Chuck Rainer, and his wife, Chris,

who were both teachers at Fowlerville at the time, informed her of the openings.

“Having student taught first grade, I thought I’d do best in elementary and interviewed with Jan Fleck who was hiring a teacher for Kreeger,” she said. “I didn’t do very well when I was subsequently interviewed by the panel and another applicant was picked. But Jan informed Tom Tannar, who was the principal at Munn Middle School, that I might be worth considering. I interviewed with him.

I didn’t think I had much of a chance, so I wasn’t as nervous. Tom hired me with what was really a leap of faith. As it turned out I have loved working with this age group.”

Katie was married to Mark Bowling in 1995. The two met at Michigan State University. They have three daughters: Anna, age 13; Erin, 11; and Molly, 9.

Katie noted that horses have been a passion of hers since she was a young girl. “When I was 12 my parents finally bought me a pony named ‘Cocoa’ that I rode every day. I’ve enjoyed horseback riding ever since.”

That passion has been passed down to her daughters.

The family lives on a small farm south of Williamston where the family horses are kept. Also sharing the premises from time-to-time are goats, chickens, and pigs.

“The girls are members of the Webberville 4-H Club and show at the Ingham County Fair,” she noted. “My oldest is also on the Williamston Junior High Equestrian Team. I have tons of fun with my girls. I’m so proud of them.”

Nearly 20 years in the classrooms provides some perspective. A major change, said Bowling, is that more accountability is required. “As teachers, we need to be much more aware of what we are teaching and to be sure that we are doing it in a way that meets state standards,” she said. “There is not as much flexibility.” “(But) the biggest change in education that I recognize since starting is the world that we live in,” she added.

“Technology plays an ever increasing role in driving students’ social and academic lives. A tremendous amount of time for many students is spent on a screen of some sort… texting, Face Booking, Tweeting, gaming, downloading materials, and working on class assignments.

“Children have a greater awareness of the world and its events,” Bowling pointed out. “Today’s youth are very sophisticated when it comes to technology Teens are accustomed to immediate replies, answers, and information. This sophistication provides wonderful opportunities for enhanced learning and acquiring indepth information, but it also presents unique challenges and responsibilities within the classroom.”

Part of meeting those responsibilities and challenges comes in taking those student skills in technology and finding ways to apply them to the classroom and in each individual student’s learning process. Included in that is “the need for trust and an open dialogue about the risks and benefits of new and creative technologies that may or may not be allowed in classrooms,” she added.

On being named as this year’s Fowlerville ‘Teacher of the Year’, Katie said it is “very humbling and very gratifying.”

“There are so many incredible teachers here in Fowlerville,” she said. “I think of those that are more

By Cheryl Poch Ok, here is something for you to think about…a library without books? Yes, it’s here. And I didn’t think I would ever live to tell or write about it! It is happening in San Antonio, Texas. A book-less library. Come the fall of 2013, San Antonio’s Bexar County is going to be home to the Biblio Tech, the country’s first book-less public library.

Of course there will be books, just e-books, not physical books!

According to ABC News Network, the 4,989 square-foot space will look like a modern library. Instead of aisles and aisles of books there will be aisles and aisles of computers and gadgets. At the start, it will have 100 e-readers available for circulation and to take out, then 50 e-readers for children, 50 computer stations, 25 laptops and 25 tablets on site.

Fowlerville Fire Report The department responded to 20 emergencies this week.

Friday, January 18th, at 1:25 a.m. a medical emergency on Van Buren Road in Handy Township was reported.

Firefighters were dispatched to a medical emergency on Munsell Road in Iosco Township at 11:19 a.m. At 2:04 p.m. personnel responded to Converse Road in Handy Township to assist EMS. A medical emergency on Bradley Road in Iosco Township was reported at 8:54 a.m., Saturday, January 19th.

Sunday, January 20th, at 12:05 a.m. the department was called to remove a tree blocking Bull Run Road in Iosco Township. A tree blocking at Bradley and Roberts Road in Iosco Township was reported at 12:48 a.m. Another dispatch for a tree across a roadway, this time on Owosso Road in Conway Township, was received at 1:24 a.m.

Then, personnel responded to Nicholson Road in Handy Township to remove a tree from the road at 1:49 a.m. A tree down in the roadway on Bull Run Road in Iosco Township was reported at 2:34 a.m. A dispatch

deserving, but I do try to work hard at the job so it’s also gratifying. To be recognized by this fabulous staff is a tremendous honor.”

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Library goers will be able to take out books on any of the devices in the library, take out one of the 50 e readers for a period of time or bring their own e-readers to the library and load books onto their own devices. The library will also be partnering with e-book providers or distributors to provide access to over 10,000 titles. The hope is to add that collection annually. The county is still figuring out who will provide the equipment and has requests for proposals out for the e-readers and other equipment.

Currently Amazon and Barnes & Noble offer services on their respective e-readers which work at libraries. (Like ours) You can take out books on the e-reader devices and then check them back in to the library remotely.

There will also be children’s areas with interactive tables and interactive walls. The only thing that there may be a charge for is if you would want something printed out.

WOW! I just don’t think that this type of library can replace what we have here and now. As once stated by library director Mark Herring in South Carolina, “Our culture is more significant than 140 characters and too big to fit on a mobile device. Culture needs room to spread out because it captures the whole of our civilization and everyone in it.”

This certainly is the future and the future is NOW & WOW! Until next week…”There is no key to happiness.

The door is always open.”

-------------------------------------------------------------reporting a tree blocking Owosso Road in Conway Township was received at 4:40 a.m. Downed power lines on Stow Road in Conway Township were reported at 8:13 a.m. A motor vehicle accident with injuries on Fowlerville Road in Handy Township was reported at 9:40 a.m. At 6:27 p.m. firefighters responded to a request for mutual aid assistance at a structure fire on Kneeland Circle in Howell Township. This call was cancelled prior to the department’s arriving on the scene. A tree blocking Stow Road in Conway Township was reported at 9:15 p.m.

The department was dispatched to Sharpe Road in Handy Township for power lines down on a Semi at 12:57 p.m., Monday, January 21st. At 3:12 p.m. a medical emergency on River Bend Drive in Iosco Township was reported. A medical emergency on Sober Road in Conway Township was reported at 4:38 p.m.

Firefighters responded to Kam Court in Iosco Township at 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 22nd, to extinguish a fire in a residential dwelling.

Wednesday, January 23rd, at 4:57 p.m. the department was dispatched to assist at a medical emergency on N. Ann Street in the Village. At 9:45 p.m. firefighters responded to a medical emergency on Arlene Court in Iosco Township.

OFFICE HOURS: Administration Office 7:00 am – 3:30 p.m.

Counseling Office 6:00 am - 2:30 p.m. *** IMPORTANT DATES: Jan. 28--Options for Acceleration in High School Jan. 29--Financial Aid Presentation Feb. 1--NO School PD Day Feb. 8--SADD Talent Show Feb. 15-18--Holiday Break *** Options for Acceleration in High School - Parents, are you looking for a way to reduce college costs? Is your child ready to challenge himself/herself academically?

On Monday, January 28 at 7pm in the Fowlerville High School Media Center, Mr. Lusk, Fowlerville High School’s Principal, will speak about Options for Acceleration in High School. These include Advanced Placement (AP) classes, Dual Enrollment, and Online Classes. Parents of current eighth grade through eleventh grade students will be able to ask scheduling questions and network. Don’t wait; planning is key to taking advantage of the courses available at Fowlerville High School. Refreshments will be available. Sponsored by FACTO (Fowlerville Academic Creative Talented Organization). Any questions? Contact Barb Parker (517) 223-7871 or joeparker@fnwusers.com. *** The Fowlerville High School Counselors are hosting a Financial Aid Presentation in the FHS Media Center on Tuesday, January 29 from 7-8:30 pm. Both parents and students are welcome to attend especially those that intend to enroll in some type of post-secondary education program in the fall of 2013. Ms Kelly Newell, Associate Director of Financial Aid for Cleary University, will be leading the presentation. Topics that will be covered are the FAFSA and various forms of financial aid available to students pursuing a higher education. Please RSVP to Mrs. Ann Glover at glover@fvl.k12.mi.us. *** 11 of Fowlerville's finest musicians auditioned and were accepted into the Livingston County Honors Band.

The band is a collection of the finest instrumentalists from Fowlerville, Howell, Brighton, Pinckney, and Hartland High Schools. The Honors Band will be giving a concert on Monday, January 28 at 7:30 pm at Brighton High School for all those interested. The following students are the representatives from Fowlerville: Rebecca Kralik, Stephanie Harper, Marie Parker, Sarah VanWynen, Rachel Regentik, David Miechiels, Chris Penny, Robert Williams, Kayla Rodgers, Galen Neuroth, Haley Yaremych. Way to go, bandos!

*** Get paid at your job and receive high school credit at the same time not a bad deal. Students, who have a job that is related to a class they are currently enrolled in, can sign up for the Work Based Learning or CO-OP programs. The forms for both programs can be picked up from your Counselor. If you have taken or currently are in the Child Development class and would like to work at Kreeger or Smith Elementary School 6th hour see your counselor for a Child Care CO-OP program form. *** Any seniors who would like to earn their "RED" cord for graduation, make sure you give blood at a local blood drive before March 23. Log on to redcrossblood.org to check out local blood drives in the area. The next blood drive at the high school will be Friday, May 17. Seniors need to donate blood at least 3 times and have their donor card stamped to receive a cord. See Mrs. Hardenbrook if you have any questions. *** The SADD/SLS Talent Show will be held Friday, February 8 at 7 pm in the Alverson Center for Performing Arts. Over 25 acts are preparing for the annual show including singers, dancers, pianists, rock bands and the FHS Colorguard. It will be a great evening of live entertainment. General admission fee is $5 and SADD/SLS members admission is $3. *** On Friday, May 17 any Fowlerville High School Senior that has applied to LCC is invited to go on a field trip to West Campus to take all of their placement tests, meet with an advisor to schedule classes, take a campus tour, and enjoy a healthy lunch!! The LCC bus will pick students up at the high school at 8:00 am. Please contact Mrs. Petit in the Fowlerville High School Counseling Office if you have questions, or would like to sign up for the trip. petitj@fvl.k12.mi.us or call 517-223-6106. *** ATTENTION CLASS OF 2012 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS - Local scholarship recipients from the Class of 2012 are reminded to turn in a copy of their 1st semester college transcript and their 2nd semester proof of enrollment to Mrs. Glover in the Fowlerville High School Counseling Office. A current mailing address will also be needed in order to forward the scholarship funds.

Plainfield United Methodist Church serving dinner on February 9 A chicken and biscuit supper will be served at the Plainfield United Methodist Church on Saturday, February 9 starting at 5 pm. A free will donation will be taken and take-outs will be available.

The church is located at 17845 M-36, north of Gregory. For more information please call (517) 8518932.

After school, David does all kinds of things. These “things” include tennis, Jazz band, Honors band, giving saxophone lessons, National Honor Society, and participating in his church Youth Group. In a nutshell, David is a very busy dude. His friend Stephanie Green says, “David is a great friend, he is always there for people and he always knows how to make people laugh.”

David’s favorite movie is Inception, and he enjoys watching the hit TV soap opera “The Walking Dead.”

His favorite video game is Mario Kart and he loves to read The Hunger Games books, and enjoys listening to Mumford and Sons.

“It’s nice to be recognized for all the hard work I put into my studies and extracurricular,” David said. It certainly is, David. Again, congratulations on being Student of the Week!

Student of the Week--David Miechiels

By Josh Schaefer

Congratulations to this week’s Student of the Week, David Miechiels! David, a junior at FHS, is the son of Corey and Melissa. He has a 13-year-old brother, Zachary (who is in 8th grade), and a dog named Quiney.

David is currently enrolled in Honors Junior Literature and Composition, Government, Pre-Calculus, AP Chemistry (also known as alchemy), Spanish III, and Band.

David’s favorite class is Band, because he loves to play his saxophone, and the other students in that class are like his family. When asked who his favorite teacher was, he couldn’t decide at first, and then picked Mr. Vliek, the band teacher. Why? “He’s very passionate about what he does and he’s just a cool dude overall.”

Mrs. Placido told us, “I support David as Student of the Week, too! I’m shocked he’s never been before!”

After high school, David plans to either attend the University of Michigan or Hope College. Although unsure, he plans to study something in chemistry— but don’t quote him on that, because it changes quite a bit. If he could change one thing about Fowlerville High School, it would be to add a seventh hour to the class schedule, because “It’s difficult to take the classes you’d like to, with all the requirements.”

David’s favorite thing about FHS, however, is its size—“it’s relatively small, so you have the opportunity of getting to know everyone.” To the underclassmen, David says, “learn to manage your time well.” He totally looks forward to graduation, but is also excited about trying new things.

Important Information for the 2012- 2013 School Year: February 1–No School -Teacher Professional Development February 8, 11, 12– Vision Screening 3rd and 5th grade students February 13– Vision Re-Screening February 15-18– No School – Mid Winter Break February 25-27- Hearing Re-Screening for 4th grade students March 6- Kreeger Spring Picture Day March 28– End of Marking Period March 29– April 5 – Spring Break April 11– ½ day school Parent/Teacher Conferences *** Box Tops, VG Receipts, Campbell Soup Labels: Remember to keep collecting Tyson A+ labels, Vg's receipts, and Campbell's labels, in addition to Box Tops! *** Meijer’s Community Rewards and Target Program: Kreeger Elementary is enrolled in the Meijer’s Community Rewards Program. When you apply for a Meijer’s Credit Card or Meijer’s Guest Card, be sure to use the Kreeger number 199139.

The Meijer’s Corporation supports schools by returning a portion of qualified customer purchases to the school! When using the Target program remember to mention Kreeger Elementary.

Remember, “Every little bit helps!”

Thanks for your support. *** Frankenmuth Fundraiser Limo Rides: Limo rides have been scheduled for those students that have sold $200 or more in our Frankenmuth Fundraiser for May 1 and 2. Those students will have a limo ride and lunch at Wendy’s. We will send home notes, as the dates get closer.

Giants of Yard and Field Like so many of us, I wandered about the neighborhood as an elementary school student, collecting and identifying the autumn leaves that had fallen from the tall area trees. By the shapes and colors of those leaves we learned the trees from which they had fallen. I’m still amazed at what I learned about those beautiful trees. And much later I learned to identify those trees in winter, by their shapes.

My classmates and I learned that some of the trees, the conifers, kept their leaves and remained green all year while the deciduous, the ones that provided the leaves we’d gathered, grew new leaves each spring. And we learned that those oversized plants helped to purify the very air we breathed. And if that were not enough, we learned of all the food that grew on trees. Almost every kind of fruit in the produce section of our grocery stores came from trees as well as quite a few of the delicious nuts we enjoyed.

Two of the most basic gifts we get from trees are shade for coolness and the landscaping beauty for our homes.

And while some might claim that the raking of the leaves from those trees each autumn is a necessary evil, many more would insist that the hole in the sky left by the sudden loss of one of those trees to wind or ice is a greater evil. That’s why those lost trees are usually quickly replaced.

In my yard and I suspect the yards of many, every tree growing there has a story, a story that someone in the family provided by giving us a transplanted tree from their yard to ours, it came from a nursery as a present or was dug from a woods for our yard. Only one by our front curb was from the city and mistakenly planted over our water line. Those roots, unlike the ones that help to control erosion, I fear are destined to find their way into my water supply. But that was not the fault of the tree.

More and more, trees are being planted as money crops. Not just the Christmas tree industry or the nurseries that provide for our landscaping but the more recent plantings that will one day result in the renewal of elm, ash and American chestnut that have systematically been destroyed by insect infestations. And the growing prices of wood in our lumber yards suggests to us that tapping our forests for building supplies may not always be enough for our needs.

In the British Isles trees have been harvested to a point in many places, that few houses are built of wood today.

In the rain forests of South America, climates have been altered by the removal of trees and in parts of Africa so many trees have been harvested just for cooking fires that there are deserts were jungles used to be. Even in America trees are being cut in many places, more rapidly than they are being replaced. Clearly, groups like the Arbor Day Foundation may soon be necessary leaders in the production of trees of all kinds.

And from just the position of enjoyment, who doesn’t find a forest beautiful? When I was a child it was the shape and color of leaves that allowed me to know the little I knew about the species of trees around me. Later I found the shapes of trees in the winter made the species even easier to identify.

Is it any wonder that Joyce Kilmer wrote - - “I think that I shall never see a poem lovely as a tree?”

-Fowlerville Historic SocietyThe Fowlerville Historic Society met December 6 in preparation of the Open House held in the historic Iosco Methodist Episcopal Church. The meeting was chaired

by Marj Carlon, who led discussion on those plans and on several of the society’s other active issues.

Many of those issues regarding the Livingston Historic Centre will be presented to the Fowlerville Fair Board including the completion of the steeple repair, the placement of a ridgecap on the blacksmith shop, the use and cleaning/restoration of the train depot, and the necessary repairs for both the Kirkland House and the Coughran School.

The committee also discussed the development of building use contract and appointed a sub-committee to finalize the drafts made in November. Plans continue to raise funds for further restoration and to seek grants for the most extensive projects. Also, a 1920’s wedding dress was donated to be displayed in the church beginning in the spring.

The Open House was held December 9. Local musicians played holiday music and entertained the guests with Christmas carols while everyone shared homemade refreshments.

The committee will meet Thursday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the fair office. The agenda includes communication with and from the Fair Board and building use contracts in addition to other topics. All those interested in preserving local history are welcome to attend.

IMPORTANT DATES: February 1-No School-Professional Learning Day February 13- Student Count Day February 15 & 18-No School March 5 & 6–Kindergarten Round Up (See More Info Below) March 18, 19, 25 & 26–Hearing Screening For Kindergarten & 2nd Grade (See More Info Below) March 29–Spring Break Begins April 7–Spring Break Ends April 8–School Resumes *** Kindergarten Round Up For 2013/2014 School Year – We will be holding Kindergarten Round Up on March 5 & 6. The hours for enrollment will be the same for both days, 8:00 to 10:30 am, 1:00 to 3:00 pm & 5:00 to 7:00 pm. You may come on either day and at any time block that works well for you. Please come prepared to enroll with your child’s Birth Certificate, Current Immunization Record, Vision Screening after 3 Years of Age and Proof of Residency (Proof of Residency items should include a Driver’s License and 2 additional pieces, such as a bill, statement, lease or purchase agreement, etc.) If you do not have a Vision Screening done before Round Up for your child, the Livingston County Health Department will be at Round Up on March 6 during the 8:00 to 10:30 am and 1:00 to 3:00 pm sessions. Your child does not have to accompany you to Round Up, unless they need a vision screening. *** Hearing Screening Kindergarten & 2nd Grade–The Livingston County Health Department will be at Smith Elementary to do Hearing Screenings of all Kindergarten and 2nd Grade Students on March 18, 19, 25 & 26. Please read the information below to see if it applies to your child.

Please call the School if: You have a concern and it is not your child's scheduled year for screening.

You do not want your child screened.

Call (517) 223-6430 and ask for Laura Please call the Health Department if: Your child has a programmable shunt.

Call (517) 546-9850 and ask for the Hearing & Vision Coordinator. *** Please Help We Are In Need of Pants - The office at Smith is requesting donations of boys and girl’s pants or sweat pants. The sizes we use the most are 6, 7, 8 & 10.

Thank you in advance for helping our students. *** AFTER SCHOOL NOTES–Phoned in messages are for changes to your child’s schedule that will happen after 3:35. If you are picking up your child before 3:35

you do not have to call the office prior to arriving at school. Just come to the office and sign your child out and we will call them from the classroom. *** DISMISSAL REMINDERS: If there are changes to your child’s dismissal from the building at the end of the day you MUST notify the office with a phone call before 2:55 pm. Dismissal is one of our busiest times of the day and we want to make sure your child is safe and goes to the appropriate place. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Fowlerville High students encouraged to make smart moves & smart choices Prescription medications are the drug of choice among 12 to 13 year olds. Kids are under the impression that if a doctor prescribes the medication, then it must be safe to use. A recent survey conducted by the Michigan Department of Education revealed that 11.6% of Livingston County 7th graders have taken a prescription pain killer without a doctor’s prescription. Finding the drugs are easier than someone might think. Research shows that 70% of people that have abused prescription medication have obtained it from a friend or family member.

Heavy pain killers are commonly the gateway drug into heroin use. It starts when children hear about other kids taking Vicodin and OxyContin. The child finds some in their home medicine cabinet and decides to give it a try. The child likes the way it makes him/her feel and suddenly becomes addicted to the pills. The child learns (because most kids know) that he/she can still get the same high or for a cheaper price: heroin.

What is the Livingston County community doing about this? A local prevention collaborative, known as the Livingston Community Prevention Project (LCPP), is implementing a prescription drug abuse awareness campaign known as Smart Moves Smart Choices. The national campaign informs parents, children, and the community about teen prescription drug abuse and its serious risks. It also provides preventative measures and actions people can take. During week of January 28, Fowlerville High School students will be participating in the Smart Moves Smart Choices awareness campaign.

Messages about the dangers of prescription drug abuse will be incorporated into their school week. Students will also receive pens, stickers, key chains, and posters to remind them to make smart moves and smart choices.

Children are dying because of what is found in a medicine cabinet. You can help prevent tragedy and addiction. For more information about prescription drug abuse and prevention, visit: www.smartmovessmartchoices.org.

For more information about the Livingston Community Prevention Project and local resources visit: www.neversaynevermi.com.

Area Deaths— Fred John Devine II Fred John Devine II, age 70, of Houghton Lake, died on Saturday January 19, 2013 in Saginaw. He was born July 18, 1942 to Fred J. & Edna G. (Rife) Devine.

He was a 1961 Fowlerville High School graduate and served in the US Navy during Vietnam. He married Judy (Ouilette) in Howell in 1977. Fred was a Sergeant with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Dept. and retired to Houghton Lake.

He is survived by wife: Judy; children: Paul Wylie, David (Marcy) Wylie and Stacey (Mike) Coddington; grandchildren: Branden Wylie, Josh Wylie, Joel Coddington and Nora Coddington; 2 Brothers: Terry (Jamie) Devine and Pat (Debbie) Devine; 2 Sisters: Kathleen (Bill) Cool and Karen (Jerry) Ouilette. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother James.

Memorial services were held on Thursday, Jan. 24, at Niblack Funeral Home, Dillingham Liverance Chapel with Pastor Stan Szelkowski of Marr Community Bible Church officiating..www.niblackfuneralhome.com

Macy Rae Struble Macy Rae Struble, of Williamston, was born January 20, 2013 and died Thursday, January 24, 2013 at Sparrow Hospital.

She is survived by her parents: Kris and Cortney (Valley) Struble and grandparents: Donald and Paula Struble and Ray and Marge Valley, aunts and uncles: Brandi (Anthony) Szura and Greg Valley and cousins: Paiten and Preston Szura and Elise Valley.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Fr. Peter Clark officiating. Interment will take place in Coffey Cemetery, Fowlerville. Visitation 2-4 & 6-8 pm Monday, January 28, 2013 at Niblack Funeral Home, Dillingham Liverance Chapel. www.niblackfuneralhome.com

Hazel LizzieWorthington Hazel Lizzie Worthington, age 85, of Fowlerville died Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013. She was born March 21, 1927 to Silas & Lily Terry in Moulton, Ala. She married Gordon L. Worthington, and he preceded her in death in 1979.

Hazel worked as a prep cook and bartender at the old hotel and the Hitching Post restaurant. She loved to cook and never used a recipe; it was all by memory.

Surviving are 4 sons: Jimmy Adair, J.L. “Rody” (Gloria) Adair, Bill Adair and Robert Worthington (special friend Toni), 11 grandchildren, 20 greatgrandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents: Silas & Lily, sisters: Julia Mae Hill and Jewell, brothers: Hollis Terry and Wallace Terry, daughters in law: Marie (Lloyd), Sherry (Bigelow) Worthington and Rosie (Hatfield) Adair.

Services were held on Friday, Jan. 25, 2013 at Niblack Funeral Home, Dillingham Liverance Chapel with Pastor Mark Wilson of Fowlerville United Brethren in Christ Church officiating. Interment was in the Greenwood Cemetery. www.niblackfuneralhome.com

Dick & Opal Hugenot celebrating 71st wedding anniversary on January 31 Mr. and Mrs. Dick Hugenot will be celebrating their 71st wedding anniversary.

Dick and Opal of Webberville were married January 31, 1942. A family gathering will celebrate the occasion.

Happy anniversary Mom and Dad with much love from all of your children and families.

Michigan Senate Report

By Joe Hune, 22nd District

Michigan House Report Cindy Denby, 47th District

Changes to Michigan tax filing timeline Recent changes may affect the Michigan tax filing timeline. Regular paper tax returns will be filed in their usual manner; there shouldn’t be any significant delay.

The traditional paper filing method takes four to six weeks. It is important to note, however, that the Internal Revenue Service opened the eFile system later than normal, which means that the eFile option will open later than normal for those filing electronically.

Our friends at the Michigan Treasury have advised that those who wish to eFile, should still do so. If you send the traditional paper tax filing in, it will likely not be entered into the system until after the delayed eFile open date.

The Michigan Treasury would like to remind all Michigan residents that eFiling, with a combination of direct deposit, is still the fastest way to receive your refund.

Many Michigan residents will see their Homestead Property Tax Credit affected under the tax changes undertaken by the Legislature in 2011-12. Michiganders are advised to visit www.michigan.gov/taxes to see whether they are affected by the changes.

A full list of tax changes can be found at www.michigan.gov/treasury.

If you have any further questions please email my office at SenJHune@senate.michigan.gov or dial tollfree 1-855-563-4863 and my staff will be happy to assist you.

Parents of Multiples preparing for spring Mom 2 Mom sale in March The Livingston Area Parents Of Multiples (LAPOM) is getting ready for its spring Mom 2 Mom sale.

This spring's sale is set for March 23 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 3555 E. Grand River Ave, Howell.

Early Buy begins at 8:30am for $3; General Admission is open from 9am-1pm for $1. Strollers are welcome all hours, and we will be accepting cash and credit cards (for a small transaction fee).

Winter is extremely beautiful in Michigan and though shoveling and scraping our vehicles are not anyone's favorite, our state has lots of fun things to do in the winter. Many local communities throughout our state hold community events and festivals during the winter.

These festivals typically include both indoor and outdoor activities and are fun for the whole family.

Winter sports are extremely popular in our state and there are options for everyone regardless of your athletic ability. Residents can enjoy sledding without even needing to leave their hometown and ice-skating is a fun option for everyone. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing also are fun activities that people often overlook and haven't tried.

Of course skiing and snowboarding are very popular in Michigan and we have many beautiful resorts and ski slopes in our state that residents can take a quick trip to visit. Most ski resorts offer lessons and rent equipment for all ages, making hitting the slopes fun and affordable for the whole family. Snowmobiling also is a popular winter pastime in our state and is a great way to take in the beauty that our state offers. Northern Michigan has tons of trails designated specifically for snowmobiling and rentals are also available throughout the state.

For the avid fisherman, ice fishing is a great way to keep the pastime going in the "off season." Our state has several locations throughout the state that feature ice fishing, including equipment and cabin rentals. Ice fishing is a very unique experience that everyone should try at least once.

Our state's beauty doesn't stop when the snow falls.

Some may even say the blanket of snow just adds to the beauty that is Pure Michigan. Taking advantage of these festivals and activities will help residents eliminate the 'cold weather blues' and have some fun while they're at it. A list of local events and activities throughout the state are listed on Pure Michigan's website at www.michigan.org. *** If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-8284863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov.

Senior Spotlight-Lynsey Hitchcock

By Kelsei Hull

You could find her on the basketball court, team bonding with her basketball team, or spending time with her friends—Lynsey Hitchcock is this week’s senior spotlight.

“Lynsey has brought so much dedication, devotion, and loyalty to our program. She has put her entire heart into play, community service, fundraising, and mentoring upcoming players. I will miss her love of the game, her leadership, and her desire to be better with each passing day! She has grown so much on and off the court,” said basketball coach Kris Tennant.

Hitchcock is the daughter of Brad and Lori Hitchcock and sister to BJ Hitchcock, 2005 Webberville graduate, and Brennen Hitchcock 2010 Webberville graduate. One of the things she is looking forward to the most in the next year is her first nephew being born around March.

“Along with being excited for graduation, I am excited for the birth of my nephew because he will be the best graduation present and first great grandson to my grandparents, “said Hitchcock.

Hitchcock is known to be someone who has been caring and always up for some fun. Her plans after high school include attending Western Michigan University to pursue a career in Physical Therapy.

“I have always wanted to pursue a career working with people, but never knew what till I tore my mcl and had to go through Physical Therapy. After that I just knew that’s what I wanted to be, said Hitchocck.”

Basketball is her favorite sport. She plays on the Michigan Road Runners AAU basketball team when she isn’t playing for the Webberville Spartans. “I am really going to miss playing basketball after I graduate, but most of all I will miss team bonding and all the other fun stuff we do on and off the court, I love my team,” said Hitchcock.

Along with being involved in basketball for many years, Hitchcock has been a part of the Varsity softball team for two years, student council for four years, project roots for two years, FFA for four years, and journalism for two years. Also, Hitchcock was on homecoming court her freshman and senior year.

“Lynsey is an outstanding worker and has made valuable contributions to both journalism and FFA, said Advisor Colleen Scott Keiser. “I really appreciate that I can count on her to get a job done; she is dependable, considerate, and conscientious. Lynsey is really motivated to succeed, and I believe she has the character and work ethic for future success.”

When Hitchcock isn’t on the basketball court, you could find her spending time with her family or going out with her best friends, Kelsei Hull, Alyssa Arnold, and Aaron Driver. “Lynsey has always been someone I could count on to get a good laugh. She is a very caring and always makes sure the people around her are having a good day, and if they aren’t, she finds a way to make it better,” said best friend Alyssa Arnold.

Hitchcock’s advice to her underclassmen is “always do your best, get involved in everything possible, and most importantly, always remember to have fun,” said Hitchcock.

Win a Prize at the Webberville Library Visitors to the Webberville Library can win prizes by coming into the library and filling out their names and phone numbers on a provided slip of paper and putting it into the Valentine’s box. Several winners of Valentine candy and other surprises will be selected.

Entries into this drawing, sponsored by the Friends of the Webberville Library, will be accepted from Wednesday, January 30 until 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 12. One entry per visit. Please enter and have a happy Valentine’s Day.

Friends of Webberville Library holding next meeting on February 4 The Friends of the Webberville Library will hold its quarterly meeting on Monday, February 4 at 1:00 p.m. in the library. Topics for discussion will be election of officers, proposed budget for 2013-2014, patron drawing for Valentine’s Day, Dr. Seuss birthday celebration and upcoming fund raising activities.

The Friends would like to thank everyone who donated hats, mittens, gloves and scarves for the Webberville Food and Clothing Bank.

The Friends group is always seeking new members.

Cost of an individual membership is $3 or $6 for a family. Membership runs from February 1 through January 31. You can pick up a membership form at the Webberville Library.

WEBBERVILLE SCHOOLS DISTRICT NEWS Art Show in the Spartan Center - The Governor's Traveling Show of winning artwork from the 2012 Michigan Youth Arts Festival will be on display in the Spartan Center from January 21 through February 1. 30 pieces of high school student artwork from across Michigan, including a painting by finalist Kierstynn Holman, are included in the show. *** Webberville Basketball Pink Night – Join the participants of the Webberville Basketball Program as they present their 4th Annual Cancer Benefit Pink Night on Tuesday, February 5. The girls’ game will begin at 5:30PM with the boys’ game to follow. There will be cancer survivor recognition, a silent auction, 50-50 raffle and a bake sale. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Sparrow Breast Cancer Fund. Wear pink to the game and help to “paint the gym pink!” *** Student Count Day – The second student count day of the school year will be on Wednesday, February 13.

Please make sure that your child is in school on that day. *** No School – There will be no school on Monday, February 18. *** Parent-Teacher Conferences – Conferences will be held on Thursday, February 21 from 4:00PM – 7:00PM for all grades. *** Mobile Dentists–The Mobile Dentists will be at Webberville Schools on April 17 and 18 from 8:00AM – 3:00PM. Children ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years old may be seen. They accept Medicaid and private insurance. There are also grants available as well as subsidized fees. Information with sign-up and permission slips will be arriving the first week of March, so watch for more details!

WEBBERVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Family Fun Night – The student council is hosting a Family Fun Night at Castaway Play Café in Howell on Thursday, January 31 from 5:30PM-8:30PM. The cost is $7.50 per child for the play structure and bounce house.

Purchase a bracelet ahead of time to play 3 hours of laser tag. Bracelets are $20 each. Ages 5-adult may play. Cash (no checks) must be brought in for the number of bracelets your family would like to purchase no later than January 29. Bracelets will be handed out the night of the event.

For more information contact Mrs. Perry at dperry@webbervilleschools.org or 521-3071 ext: 213. ***

February Awards – The February Awards Assembly will be held on Friday, February 1 at 2:15PM in the elementary gym. *** Daddy-Daughter Dance – The Webberville Elementary Boosters “Daddy-Daughter Dance” will be held on Thursday, February 14 in the elementary multi-purpose room. The dance will be held from 6:00PM – 8:00PM and the cost is $12 per couple, plus $3 for each additional child. Tickets can be purchased at the school and order forms are available in the district newsletter.

You may also pay at the door. Volunteers are needed to help with the event. If you are available, please call Treva at 517-388-2761.

WEBBERVILLE SECONDARY SCHOOL FFA Leadership Contests – Join the Webberville FFA members as they compete in the District Leadership Contests on Thursday, January 31. The competition will take place at Mason High School and will begin at 4:00PM. *** Winterfest Dance – The high school Winterfest Dance will be on Saturday, February 2. The dance will be in the secondary cafeteria from 7:30PM – 11:00PM. The dance is semi-formal and tickets are $5.00 each. *** ACT Testing – The ACT will be given at Webberville High School on Saturday, February 9 at 8:00AM. If you are interested in signing up for the test, please see Ms. Vassilakos or Mr. Dowker. *** Band Concert – The 6th grade band students will perform their first concert of the year on Monday, February 11 at 7:00PM in the secondary cafeteria.

St. Agnes Catholic Church hosting murder mystery dinner on Feb. 23 Pull out your 1977’s threads and step back into time for Christina & Tim’s Wedding Reception at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 855 E Grand River, Fowlerville. This is a real “Whodunnit” mystery dinner production. All are encouraged to dress as if they are attending an actual wedding reception in 1977.

Enjoy an evening of dinner, music, laughter, dancing, murder & mayhem! The event is Saturday, February 23 at 6:30 pm in the St Agnes Parish Life Center. Tickets are $25/person, $20/senior or table of 8 for $160. Tickets are available in the St. Agnes Parish Office and must be pre-purchased, as they will not be sold at the door. A cash donation bar will be available. All in the community are encouraged and welcome to come. This will be an evening to remember.

Report cards will be mailed out to parents/guardians by Monday, January 28. You can also view grades on line at any time. *** With Gladiator Olympics coming up February 8 we are meeting every week this month! Here are the dates: PAC Meetings—Tues., Jan. 29 from 5:30-6:30 in the JH Library Tues., Feb. 5 from 4:00-5:00 in the JH Library Student council meeting-- February 4. *** Sports for the Week of Jan. 28 Mon., Jan. 28: Girls Basketball vs. E.L. McDonald- 7th Away, 8th home; 4:30 game time; bus 3:30 Wed., Jan. 30: Girls Basketball vs. Mason-7th Home, 8th Away; 4:30 game time; bus 3:30 Thurs., Jan. 31: INDIVIDUAL & TEAM ATHLETIC PICTURES 3:00- 7-8 Wrestling at FHS 3:45- 8th GBB at FJH 4:05- 7th GBB at FJH Fri., Feb. 1: FJH WRESLING INVITATIONAL - 5:00; FHS Aux Gym 10 junior high/middle school teams will wrestle Adults: $4 & Students (8th & lower) $2 Those attending the Wrestling Invitational are asked to park in the bus parking lot on the east side of FHS. The 7th Grade Girls Basketball team lost to Jackson-Parkside 15 to 35 last night. The girls worked hard on defense, but struggled in bounding the ball against Jackson's press. Our girls had decent shots, but the ball did not fall through the hoop. Taylor Patterson led the scoring with 13 points and Madisen Longthorne added 2 points. Good Job girls.

The 8th grade girls’ basketball team opened up their season last night going 1-1 verse Jackson Parkside. The B team played well early and trailed 6-4. Unfortunately, the Glads dropped the in-between quarters 16-2 and entered the 4th quarter losing 22-6. The girls never gave up, though, and tied the last quarter 6-6, finally losing 28-12. Anna Meggert and Abby Stepanksi had 4 points a piece and Delaney Deyo and Hunter Stobierski 2 points. 7 of the 10 girls were playing in their first basketball games and, despite the many new faces, gave it their best effort.

The A team came away with a 36-17 victory. The Glads led early, with a variety of girls scoring. This continued throughout the first quarter, which was won 10-3, and the half, where Fowlerville led 20-4. The Glads also dominated the 3rd quarter, winning 9-1, with exceptional defense played by Jewlissa Aldred, Kaylee Moulton, and Merenda Davie. The final score saw Fowlerville earn the victory. Paige Boden led the team with 12 point, Morgan Nolan added 11, Erin Vielbig

chipped in 7, Makaela Wedyke added 4, and Brooke O’Donnel 2. The girls played well all around.

Reminder to parents: Please plan to pay admission to ALL 7-8 athletic events, home & away. Also, your help is needed by the Fowlerville Athletic Boosters for their many events. FHS concessions need workers.

Please contact Tracey Peterson-517-202-3210 if you can help. Almost every night of the week is available to help!

Mrs. Recker continues to collect VG receipts for the athletic program. Receipts may be dropped off anytime at the FJH office. THANK YOU to those who have contributed in the past. *** FJH Friends of Rachel is gearing up to hold the annual Maison Wilkinson Scholarship Fundraiser. Last year's event was a HUGE success, but it wouldn't have been as successful without the community's help.

For those of you who are unaware of the situation with Maison, his life was tragically cut short in the fall of his third grade year. He would have currently been a freshman. This fundraiser is used to help raise money for the annual soccer scholarship given to a Fowlerville High School male and female athlete each year. This scholarship helps keep Maison's memory alive, as well as assist our very own students to further their education.

We will be holding this event on Saturday, March 23rd in the Junior High gym. The garage sale, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and bake sale will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are able to donate any items to be sold or auctioned off, please contact Amy Jarvis (223-6225 or jarvis@fvl.k12.mi.us).

There is also a list of drop off times and dates below at Nelson's Storage on Grand River in Fowlerville, 9177 West Grand River, Fowlerville.

February, Sat. 9 (11 am-1 pm) February, Sun. 24 (11 am-1:30 pm) March, Sat. 9 (11 am-1 pm) March, Sun. 17 (9:30 am-1 pm & 3 pm-5 pm) We will also be taking any last donations and donated items for the bake sale at Fowlerville Jr. High on Friday, March 22. *** The Livingston Community Prevention Project and Project SUCCESS would like all parents and community members to join us in our 2013 Prescription Drug Awareness Campaign to help prevent youth prescription drug abuse. The campaign will provide information to students, parents, and the community starting January 28th through school displays, posters, fliers, and media outlets.

Did you know…1in 4 teens has abused a prescription (Rx) medication. This means they have used their own or someone else’s Rx medication to get high or change the way the feel.

Here are some simple things you can do: • Keep all prescription drugs in a secure location and monitor their use

•

Talk to your teens about the dangers of misusing prescription drugs • Learn and notice signs of prescription drug abuse • Access resources and support from the Smart Moves Smart Choices website or from your school staff and Project SUCCESS Counselor • Visit SmartMovesSmartChoices.org to learn more, and join us in our efforts to promote the health and safety of all Livingston County youth. For more information, or if you would like to get involved in any substance abuse prevention efforts, contact Kris Nelson, knelson@keycenters.org. *** Attention 7th grade parents: A reminder for you that the second Chicago trip payment of $100 per person was due recently. If you have not made this payment, please do so as soon as possible. We have a waiting list, and need to know if there will be spaces available. *** 3rd annual Gladiator Olympics, teachers vs. students in 6 different "Olympic" events. Friday, February 8 from 5:00-8:30 p.m. (events start at 5:30) at the junior high.

This is a fundraiser sponsored by the Parent Advisory Committee to help purchase classroom enhancements for the students and teachers at the junior high. Cost to get in is $2. Raffle tickets are 1-$1.00, 7-$5.00, and 15- $10.

There will be concessions, pizza, bake sale and thousands of dollar’s worth of merchandise and services all wrapped up in gift baskets for raffle and auction.

Also, Friends of Rachel will be doing a collection benefiting the Family Impact Center. Please bring a canned good, paper product or other household product and help support this group. *** The Junior High Friends of Rachel will be collecting canned goods at the FJH Gladiator Olympics on Friday, February 8. Any items collected will be donated to the Family Impact Center. Please stop by to check out the fun and donate to a good cause while you are at it. *** FJHS Curriculum Night- How to Advance Your Child Through the JH: On February 13 at 6:30 pm in the JH Auditorium, there will be an informational meeting for all parents wishing to learn how to advance their student in each of the core subject areas of the JH, beginning in 5th grade through 8th grade.

Advancement in classes at the JH level, can lead to more advanced choice options in the High School and can also create more elective space in their schedules once they get to High School. If this sounds like something you would like to explore for your son/daughter, you will not want to miss this presentation.

We look forward to meeting many of you! *** NJHS is planning to sponsor after school clubs for Kindergarten through 5th grade. We are looking for supply donations to make this the best experience

possible for the kids involved. If you have any of the following at home and would like to get it out of your house please drop it off to the Junior High or contact Bobbiesue Adams at 223-6216 or adamsb@fvl.k12.mi.us to have it picked up. We are looking for Legos, arts & crafts supplies, glue, scissors, fabric, yarn, puzzles, board games, etc. *** Options for Acceleration in High School: Parents, are you looking for a way to reduce college costs? Is your child ready to challenge himself/herself academically?

On Monday, January 28 at 7pm in the Fowlerville High School Media Center, Mr. Lusk, Fowlerville High School’s Principal, will speak about Options for Acceleration in High School. These include Advanced Placement (AP) classes, Dual Enrollment, and Online Classes. Parents of current eighth grade through eleventh grade students will be able to ask scheduling questions and network. Don’t wait; planning is key to taking advantage of the courses available at Fowlerville High School. Refreshments will be available. Sponsored by FACTO (Fowlerville Academic Creative Talented Organization). Any questions? Contact Barb Parker (517) 223-7871 or joeparker@fnwusers.com *** Laser Tag Activity Night: Student Council is sponsoring Laser Tag at Castaway Play Cafe for the Junior High Students on Thursday, February 14 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

The cost is $20 for three hours of laser tag play. Wristbands will be sold during lunches the week of February 11. There is a limited number of wristbands available.

4th of July committee looking for chili contestants for March 9th cook-off The Livingston County/Fowlerville Fireworks Committee is looking for all of the great chili chefs in the area! The committee will be holding the 9th Annual Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, March 9 from 4 to 7 pm. at VFW Post 6464 located at 215 Veterans Drive in Fowlerville.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the following categories: Judges Choice, People's Choice, Spicy Hot, Best Presentation, and Best Business/Organization Entry. If you would like to enter a chili you can request an entry form by e-mail at bndbus@fnwusers.com; please title your e-mail Entry Form Request. Entry forms are also available at the Fowlerville Village Office located at 213 S. Grand Ave. in Fowlerville.

For more information call Bruce or Denise Brown at (517) 223-1927 or Butch or Peggy Ogden at (517) 223-3454. All proceeds for this event go to the July 4th Fireworks Show

Moving on to January Fun

By Jordan Fuller Well, it feels like it took me weeks to clean up the Christmas carnage. Massive amounts of screwdrivers, twisty ties, batteries, boxes, wrappers and pieces to who knows what, were scattered all over the house. It was a little depressing taking down the tree this year and I just now put away my Christmas CD’s. I have not been listening to them but they still looked pretty sitting out.

Thank goodness it has snowed and I don’t mind the arctic temps. I saw a darn dandelion in my yard the week of Christmas. Not right. Joe and the older boys rang in the New Year by watching every episode of the Walking Dead on TV and Netflix –gross. Fine. I will admit it.

Christmas is over and Happy New Year (a few weeks ago)! I am moving on.

Our family is moving on to January fun! Ezra has returned to JV basketball after a broken finger that included some glue stitches up both sides. He smashed it in the weight room but insisted on practicing for two hours and playing in his band concert before we could take him in. He just shoved that hand into the French horn and played on. Yes my son can break his finger on the leg press machine. Quite impressive if you ask me.

Oscar is also playing basketball and Leo’s season should start soon. Go Spartan basketball!!!!

Abram and Daisy have started swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School which I HIGHLY recommend.

This place just opened up in Okemos and is fabulous.

This is Abram’s sport. After making it through his lesson levels he will join the rec swim team. There is nothing cuter than watching your kid’s confidence grow while wearing adorable swimsuits and goggle faces smiling at you! The ratio of kids to instructor is 4 at the most and the swim instructors are completely there. For scaredy cats like me that is very important.

I am one of the worst at making resolutions or dreams/great ideas/”let’s try this” but dang this 35 year old will be in a bridesmaids dress come June and this hot mess right here seriously needs to get into shape. When I say shape I mean let’s go see Erik Mckay at No Bull!

Strength and Performance yet keep eating the way I have. I know. I know. I shouldn’t eat a Swiss roll on the way to No Bull. I know. I should be embarrassed that one of the first times I went there I had a piece of rock candy stuck to the crotch of my work out pants (hey it’s a long drive to No Bull!) but I’m really not. What I am also not embarrassed about is that I have been going two nights a week since before Christmas. That’s not very long for most, but for me? That’s commitment. Call Erik at 517-819-4882. He is awesome!

Us ladies experienced our first ever bridal show. There we were-four sisters, a mom and three little girls just going to check it out. My sister who is getting married in June was supposed to be on the lookout for a DJ. We get

there just in time to see a live fashion show with choreography and everything. The little girls thought it was the best day of their lives but some of us had to walk away before we embarrassed ourselves with unnecessary and inappropriate laughter (that happens too much when we all get together). Us girls walked around people watching, looking at pretty things, eating cake, putting the little girls in the money-grabbing machine. Luckily there’s our momanager –aka Kris Jenner -with her notebook and notes taking care of business. Thank goodness she took office block in school because she keeps us in line. We found a DJ called “hot beats” so we can bust a move at the reception. I have been practicing.

I’ll leave you with these visions-Daisy was watching Big Time Rush and a song came on and it reminded her of Babs and she started crying.

-I was so excited when a couple came up to me at the bookstore and asked about my moustache purse I made.

They told me I should sell them and they took my number. As it turns out they wanted to talk to me about Amway.

-As the kids were trying out the new Kinect we found out it will also detect your mother sitting on the couch in the background eating chips.

-Ezra was driving the Fuller Express and Daisy says, “Focus on the road-there’s nothing but the road.”

-I got a touch of the plague that’s been going around and Daisy asks me if I have a cold or Beiber fever.

-When I asked who left the milk out Daisy says, “I’m innocent! Blame global warming!”

Fowlerville wrestlers defeat Owosso 56-24 on January 23 The Fowlerville wrestling team traveled to Owosso on Wednesday, January 23, winning the match 56 to 24 and followed that up with a win over Parma Western 68 - 7.

Highlight matches for the night was the knockout by Brandon Ellsworth and flying cement mixer by the Cottongim.

The team will be home only two more times this year, CAAC on February 2 and team regional on February 13.

The team record is 23 and 1 overall and w finished the dual season undefeated in the CAAC Red. Undefeated wrestlers on the night were Kyle Roberts, Austin Makins, Austin Cottongim, Austin Harvey, Trevor Webb, Garreht Wrenn, Mason Litz,Brandon Ellsworth, Jordan Jabara, Brian Moran, and Adam Coon.

John Abela went 2-0 on the JV team.

Around the House

By Andy Lekarczyk

Coooold! That’s an understatement…. With the high winds and cold, no doubt the house felt a little cooler than usual with the furnace set at its normal temperature.

Every little un-caulked opening outside is a path for the cold to enter and obviously a driving wind helps add to the problem. If you’re thinking of caulking, keep the tubes inside and warm before trying to use it outside.

Contractors build all year and have to caulk windows and doors after installation in any weather.

There are several things you can do to help insulate your home from the inside. First, did you remove the screen and install the glass in your storm door? That is an easy help to put an extra barrier between you and the outdoors.

If you have older windows and an upgrade isn’t in the budget, there are kits available to help. They include a shrinkable clear plastic that can be secured to the window frame using a special tape. You install the plastic and stretch to your best ability. Then use a hair dryer to ‘shrink’ the plastic for clear viewing. Thermal windows and wall insulation are basically creating a sealed cavity to prevent air movement. This kit basically mimics the idea, creating a sealed air space to help insulate. Electrical boxes in exterior walls are also entry ‘holes’ for air. A simple ‘fix’ to help prevent cold air leaking from the wall cavity into your room is an insulating foam ‘gasket’ for the plug or switch cover.

Read the directions for installation of these gaskets.

Shutting off power to the outlet would be the obvious first step.

If you stand near the opening and ‘feel’ an air flow you know these products could be a helpful measure. Entry doors can be a huge point of air leakage. A small gap when calculated around the entire door can add up to being equal to a brick sized hole in the side of your home. Door gaskets become old and damaged. You use these doors constantly, you should expect wear. The hardware and home centers have replacement door seals.

While you’re out shopping, keep an eye out for the draft stopping ‘tubes’ to be placed at base of the door. The bottom of the door sees a great deal of wear and this seal can easily slow air leakage. You can use an old towel tightly rolled as an air stop. If you sew and are looking

for a winter project, a piece of foam pipe insulation stitched into an outer fabric covering could do a similar job! If you have a basement, the windows in this space could be a great area for air leakage. The standard builder’s grade basement window offers no real insulation value. They could be replaced with a glass block window, which adds both security and insulation, but these again come with a price. The plastic insulation kits mention above could be a choice, or a carefully cut piece of acrylic plastic and caulked in place would be a second option. A piece of foam or other insulation could be placed in the opening, but this would limit light.

Foams are not usually used in an exposed application due to building codes. When in doubt ask your local building official.

Finally, don’t forget your feathered and fury friends.

Keep the dogs and cats inside and continue feeding the birds and squirrels. They have become reliant on you as a source of food. Stock up on feed when on sale to help keep this affordable. If you have interior screens and have a place to store them, take them out! You’ll see a real difference in viewing the winter landscape Around The House.

As always past articles are archived on our website www.power24hrs.com and we welcome your questions at JustAskHandyAndy@hotmail.com.

Fowlerville gymnastics team takes win over Jackson on January 23 On Wednesday, January 23 the Gladiator gymnastics team hosted Jackson and brought in a big win 136.75 to 118.65. Top scores on the vault came from Maddy Reppenhagen (8.65), Yana Damitio (8.65), Jazmin Farmer (8.65), Clarice Hibbard (8.75). On the bars, Jazmin Farmer (8.1), Yana Damitio (8.15), and Clarice Hibbard (8.5). On the beam, Nina Sebastian (8.05), clarice Hibbard (8.65), Jazmin Farmer (8.925). On the floor Marissa Leonard (8.85), Clarice Hibbard (9.0) and Jazmin Farmer with a season high of (9.35).

The Glads travel to Jackson Lumen Christi on Monday, January 28 and host Jackson Northwest on Wednesday, January 30.

Capital Area District Library Events January 28—February 3 WEBBERVILLE: Origami: Boxes and Geometric Forms (Ages 8 & up) Date: January 31. Start Time: 6:00 PM. Description: Origami artist Tom Novak will show how to create boxes and interesting geometric forms that can be fitted together. Stop by the library earlier in the month to view some samples.

Legacies left, and followed

By Kathleen Westbrook

My uncle died just before Christmas.

Before you reject this essay, please be assured I do not tell you this in an effort to elicit your sympathy. Many people have experienced loss during holiday seasons.

Many people have experienced far more tragic circumstances than this; actually, his death was the least tragic of the entire, hateful five-year experience.

The death of someone close to me always leads me to reflection. Pair that with my tendency to reflect at the end of one year and the beginning of the next and I find myself considering---and remembering---details often overlooked. I tend to expand my thinking to a bigger, yet oftentimes more vague, picture.

My uncle was the middle of my mother’s three younger brothers. He was also my godfather. He was a wonderful man and had some great qualities. His life impacted far more than his family. He was a teacher. He was a great friend. He loved the outdoors, be it yard work or play and recreation. He was very interactive--and he loved the spoken word. He was a man of conversation, of debate, of humor, of that form of interpersonal connection.

He loved speaking with others, regardless of age or situation. And the first aspect of his life to be affected by his condition was his ability to speak. Within that first year, he lost that. He could no longer form thoughts into full sentences. In the past year, he could speak two words at the most, and even that was a struggle.

He was very active. He hiked, swam, and played most every kind of outdoor game with friends and family. He golfed some and dabbled at tennis. And he danced. He was a great ballroom dancer; he and his wife were often in the center of the dance floor. It seemed effortless. In our ethnic culture, there was dancing at every kind of event. He was the best folk dancer I ever saw. It was amazing to watch him, and one of the best memories of my wedding: when he danced for my groom and me.

Then his movement declined and he lost his ability to walk. It was heartbreaking to watch. The last time I saw him at his house, he couldn’t move enough for us to help him into my car for one more ride in a convertible. Alltoo-soon his wife had to make the decision to place him in a facility where he could get the level of care she could no longer provide. He was finally at the top of the waiting list and he left the family home on day that was the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding.

No, his death was not the source of grief; it was the slow loss of everything that made him and his life so rich. But all that he was has become a legacy he left for so many.

It is this issue of legacy that comes to mind again and again.

A while back a classmate died. We were a small group, boys and girls both that went to high school together. I don’t think I saw her since that summer of graduation when our lives separated, and that was over 35 years

ago. My high school BFF and I still see each other often, and we went to the funeral together. There were about 10 of us that made the group, but H.S.BFF and I was sort of the core. While others might float in and out, connect with other groups; date one another or outsiders, the two of us always remained. So it seemed the most natural thing for us to go together.

Our classmate had had a difficult life---she had a difficult start. Her dad was an alcoholic. I think in the four years I knew her, including going over to her house, I never once saw him. He died, and then it was just she and her mother. It turned out her mother was an alcoholic too, but she held a job and supported the family. When her mother died, my friend was left alone.

She never married and fell into addiction herself, and she struggled for the rest of her life.

It was back and forth. She went to college and even got a master’s degree. Sometimes she was a counselor at the homeless shelter, sometimes she was a resident. She worked with the city to improve conditions for those in poverty and in need. Then she’d get hooked again. And then she dropped dead, her heart damaged by the years of abuse. We sat at the funeral with the mayor and city leaders as well as struggling homeless addicts, and everybody in between. What a legacy---and what a waste. Her own legacy was so strongly influenced by the very legacy her parents left.

At the same time my classmate died, my high school chemistry teacher died. She left a legacy far greater than I’m sure she ever knew. She was different than any other woman I knew at the time, in the 1970’s. She was divorced, she didn’t have children, and she was fully independent and self-sufficient. And when she retired from teaching she began her own business. She was the one woman I knew who demonstrated by her life that women could make choices, could become more than what we commonly saw in our traditional little world in the rural school district in Northern Jackson County.

I’m away from Michigan for several weeks, both escaping the cold and following legacies. I’m staying with Cousin Mary in South Carolina, my new cousin.

She’s actually older than I am, but she’s new to me. We share a common grandfather, but the legacy that man left altered the course of so many. He was a scoundrel (Mary calls him far worse than I can send to the editor) who was estranged from everyone but his wife and one of his five sons (my dad). Until recently, I thought that my dad was an only child and that his father was an only child.

But the skeletons in his closet are many---and closely related.

Mary and I (and other cousins with whom we are only now connecting) hope that one of the results of getting to know each other is the possibility of redirecting the course of one man’s far-reaching legacy. I continue to consider that legacy, and how it had influenced the man my father became, which then influenced who my siblings and I would eventually become.

All of this then prompts me, especially with the new year, to consider how I’ve been touched by the legacies others have left, of all those with whom I’ve crossed paths over the years. I wonder if my life honors those legacies. I hope I’m living all that those legacies have given me, and that I’m passing it on. Or at least the best parts. Then there really is no need for sympathy; only appreciation for what has been, and for what stays with us in the end---to define the legacy that we will eventually leave.

Fowlerville junior varsity boy’s basketball team defeats Linden 61-36 The Fowlerville junior varsity boy’s basketball team beat Linden Tuesday, January 22 61-36, improving its record to 8-2 (3-2 CAAC Red).

Drew Vielbig paced the Glads with 22 big points.

Connor Collins added 14 and Kenny Ferris chipped in with 7. The Glads jumped out to an 18-10 lead after one quarter, and then proceeded to extend the lead in each quarter.

Gladiator JV Boys Basketball team wins again! Beat Owosso The Fowlerville Boys JV Basketball won a very exciting game last Thursday night, beating a very tough Owosso team 54-53.

Connor Collins scored 27 points, hitting 7 threepointers, including the game winner with 11 seconds left. The Glads then had a big stop on the defensive end to secure the victory. Kenny Ferris added 13 points and along with Ben Judd, Collin Callahan, and Nick Gullett helped the Glads control the boards. Drew Vielbig also added 10 points.

The JVs are now 9-2 (4-2 CAAC Red) and are off until next Thursday when they play at Ionia.

Card of ThanksWe would like to thank everyone who brought food, came to visit, sent flowers or donations or kept our family in their thoughts and prayers at the time of our father’s passing. Special thanks to Scott, Kim and Margie Bea Niblack, VFW #6464 and Auxiliary, Fowlerville Fire and Police Departments, Livingston EMS and the Patriot Guard Riders.

The Family of George W. Monroe

Little Glad Center News Beverly Farmer, Director farmer@fvl.k12.mi.us 517-223-6480 www.fowlervilleschools.org Preschool Registration; Fall 2013: Enrollment for Fall 2013 starts March 1. We offer full day and half-day sessions with a total of 5 sessions to choose from. We have sessions available for 3 and 4 year olds.

Registration fee is $50 (non-refundable) this includes registration for the Little Glads childcare classroom. We welcome parent volunteers in the classrooms. Call or visit the office for additional information. Children must be three or four by November 1, 2013 to participate in preschool.

FULL-DAY SESSIONS Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday Three and Four year olds 9:00am – 3:00pm Total enrollment: 20 children Tuition: $183/month Teacher: TBD Assistant: Mrs. Cindy Mathews HALF-DAY SESSIONS Monday/Wednesday/Friday Four year olds 8:30am – 11:30am Total enrollment: 18 children Tuition: $136.00/month Tuesday and Thursday – AM Three year olds 8:30am – 11:30am Total enrollment: 16 children Tuition: $94.50/month Tuesday and Thursday – PM Three and four year olds 12:30pm – 3:30pm Total enrollment: 16 children Tuition: $94.50/month Teacher: Mrs. Laure Frechette teaches the half-day sessions Assistant: Mrs. Penny Brettelle is the assistant for the half-day sessions Each preschool session must have 8 (eight) children enrolled in order for the session to start. *** New Afternoon Preschool Session – TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS: Our center is offering an afternoon preschool session starting in February 2013.

The preschool session will be from 12:30–3:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is open for 3 and 4 year olds.

Registration fee is $50 (non-refundable). Our center welcomes parent volunteers in the classrooms. Call or visit the office for additional information. Children must be three or four by December 1, 2012 to participate in preschool.

*This session must have 8 children enrolled for the session to start. *** Playgroups- Great Parents, Great Start-Livingston: The Little Glad Center is offering a fall session of playgroups. Registration forms are available in the Little Glad Center office. The focus will be on the developmental needs of infants and toddlers. Parents stay with their child during the class and receive information to assist with their child’s development. This is a great opportunity to meet other parents, have fun, and participate in activities with your child. We welcome new registrations throughout the sessions.

Ages: 0 - 36 months Dates: February 1, February 8, February 22 Enrollment is limited to 10 children per group.

Cost for the six-week session: $60 Each playgroup will run from 9:30am – 11:00am Facilitator: Cindy Mathews – 223-6489 *** Year-End Statements: If your child attended the Little Glad Center in 2012 your account billing statement with our tax ID # will be available in our office after the first of the year. You may need this information for tax purposes. This information is not available over the phone. Our office hours are: 7:00am – 4:30pm M-F. Statements will be e-mailed to all families that provided a valid e-mail address. *** Winter Weather: The Little Glad Center will be CLOSED if Fowlerville schools are CLOSED due to hazardous road conditions. We recommend listening to WHMI, 93.5 FM for school closing information. If you call our office at 223-6480 the voice mail will have updated information as well any time after 5:00am or check Dynacal at www.fowlervilleschools.org *** A look Ahead: February 1--No school, K-12, preschool is in session Little Glad Center is OPEN February 15--No school, K-12, no preschool sessions Little Glad Center is OPEN February 18--No school, K-12, no preschool sessions Little Glad Center is OPEN

Fowlerville Boys Varsity Basketball Team defeats Haslett, 53-37 The Fowlerville varsity basketball team defeated CAAC Red rival Haslett on Friday, Jan. 18, 53 to 37. After a slow start and falling behind 9 to 5 in the first quarter, the Gladiators finished strong. It was an all around team effort as many players contributed.

Joey Ackerman led the way with 13 points including 8 in the 4th quarter. Mike Wisuri added 10 points and6rebounds. Court Langham had a strong game in the paint, scoring 10 points and grabbing 8 rebounds.

Patrick Harmon was all over the court on defense, grabbing 2 steals and making 6 blocked shots.

The Gladiators, defensively, held Haslett to 12 of 54 shooting from the floor on the night.

The team is now 5and 4 overall.

Fowlerville boy’s basketball team defeats Linden on January 22 The Fowlerville boy’s basketball program made it a clean sweep of victories as it traveled to Linden on Tuesday, January 22.

On a very cold night, the varsity team found a way to heat it up with some very hot shooting. The team finished 9 for 14 on three point field goals on the night.

Joey Ackerman led the way with 17 points including a buzzer beater at the half that put the Glads up 3 at halftime. After struggling to score in the third quarter, Johnny Grable stoked the fire by hitting 3 straight three pointers on his way to 11 points for the night.

Johnny's baskets followed by a Carter Collins three helped put the game out of reach. Garrett Birgham added 7 rebounds on the night and Patrick Harmon had 2 blocks and 2 steals to go with his 5 points. Carter Collins finished with 9 points and 6 assists. Other contributors were Court Langham with 6 points, Mike Wisuri with 3 points, and Mike Hindy with 2 points.

Fowlerville varsity basketball team players recognized for season statistics Joey Ackerman: 10 games, 22 threes (2.2pg), 132 points (13.2pg), 21 steals (2.1pg) Carter Collins: 10 games, 58 assists (5.8pg) Mike Wisuri: 10 games, 12 threes (1.2pg), 104 points (10.4pg), Garrett Brigham: 10 games, 65 rebounds (6.5pg), Patrick Harmon: 10 games, 16 blocks (1.6pg)

Upcoming Programs at the Fowlerville District Library Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org. Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event unless otherwise noted. *** Computer Basics: Tuesday, Jan. 29 2-3:30pm. Get a general overview of a computer; including powering on and off, how to manipulate the mouse and use the keyboard. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk.

There is a $5 refundable cash deposit per class payable at the time of registration. Registration is open. *** Valentine’s BINGO: Monday, Feb. 4 5:30-6:30pm.

Ages 4-144. Join us in a special holiday BINGO celebration! We will be using Valentine’s Day Bingo cards and covering our cards with special holiday markers. Seating is limited, register early to attend! *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk or call 223-9089. *** Brick Building Club: Tuesday, Feb. 5 4:00pm. Ages 4yrs-5th grade. Join your child in building a creation based on the books read or from your own imagination! This month’s creations will be on display in the display case for the month. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk or call 223-9089. *** Anti-Valentine’s Day Party: Friday, Feb. 8 5-8pm 6th-12th grades. No red, No cards, and no heart shaped candies allowed! Come celebrate your individuality at this one of a kind party! We’ll watch movies, play games, and make crafts without the “L” word! Pizza, pop, and more provided. *You must register to attend.

Register in person at the Circulation Desk or call 2239089. *** U of M Natural History Museum Workshop #2: Saturday, Feb. 9 at 12pm. Families. Join us for the 2nd workshop “Everybody cooks” in this 3 part science series at the library. If you attended the 1st workshop, you are registered for this workshop. Have questions?

Talk to Beth. You must be registered to attend. *** BACK BY POPULAR REQUEST-- Intro to the Kindle or a Tablet: Tuesday, Feb. 5 at 2:30pm or Monday, Feb 11 5:30-6:30 Come to our special workshops and learn about your device! Bring your new device and questions. Do you have a Nook or similar eReader; then call the library to schedule a specialized one-to-one tutorial. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk.

There is a $5 refundable cash deposit per class payable at the time of registration. Registration is open.

BACK BY POPULAR REQUEST--Intro to eBooks at the Fowlerville District Library: Thursday, Feb. 7 at 2:30pm or Thursday, Feb 14 at 5:30pm. Come learn how to check out our brand new collection of eBooks! Get an overview of how the “Magic Wall” works. Download the Blio app. Everyone with a Kindle Fire or Tablet will be able to check out an eBook at this class. Bring your device; know your email, and have a valid Fowlerville District Library card. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk. There is a $5 refundable cash deposit per class payable at the time of registration.

Registration is open. *** Annual “Heart Day” Party: Wednesday, Feb. 13 5:30-6:30pm. Kids 4yrs- 5th grade. Stories, carnival style games, and more at our annual Valentine’s celebration! *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk. Registration opens Jan 30th. *** Scrap-A-Palooza: Friday, Feb 22 6-11pm. Adults.

Do you need time and space to get your scrap booking done? How about some fresh inspiration? Join us after hours for an evening of scrapping and gabbing! Learn some unusual display techniques or just do your own thing. Bring your scrapbook, supplies, pictures, or your project in progress.

Light refreshments will be provided. Seating is limited. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk.

There is a $5 refundable cash deposit per class payable at the time of registration. Registration is open.

A beautiful painting by Jack Russell was donated to the Fowlerville Library by the family. Shown here from L to R: Rebeka Warner, Ray Reaume, Janis Russell, Robert Warner, and Barb Warner.

Fowlerville Girls JV team plays Linden

Katie Davie (12) gets fouled in the second quarter.

More basketball photos Brooke Allen (32) drives between defenders in the third quarter in last week’s JV game against Linden. Fowlerville lost 49-15.

Fowlerville Girls freshmen playy Linden p

Rachael Peckens (11) brings the ball up the court in the first quarter.

High scorer Hannah Mills (12) gets fouled in the second quarter. The Gladiator freshmen girls played Linden, losing 40-18.

Photos by Dawn Gawel

Fowlerville girls varsity plays Haslett

Randi Buell (10) drives to the basket for a score in the fourth quarter.

More photos Samantha Black (20) shoots on a fast break in the first quarter. The Gladiator varsity girls played Haslett on Friday, Jan. 18, losing 68-34.

Fowlerville boys Haslett, and wins

varsity

plays

Michael Wisuri (14) scores and gets fouled for a three point play in the second quarter.

Garrett Brigham (20) drives for a basket in the second quarter.

Happy birthday Jennie Migiel, 91 years young A celebration of Jennie Migiel's 91st birthday was held on January 20 at her home in Howell. The celebration was attended by family (five generations) and friends.

Pictured in the Back Row L to R: great-granddaughter Nicole Collins, grandson Rick Collins, granddaughter Susan Duby, great-grandson Christopher Collins, Amber Collins and 5th generation great- great- grandson Crew Collins. Left of Jennie: granddaughter Jill Collins and daughter Carole Smoter.

Great grandson David Collins and Katie Collins were missed; they reside in North Carolina.

Fowlerville Rotary Club welcomes new members—

At the Wednesday, January 16th Rotary Club meeting, two new members were inducted by the Rotary President Katie Pikkarainen (center). They are pictured here with President Katie. On the left is Mary Vielbig, a Community & School Liason, and on the right is Mary Rettenmaier of Livingston Business Forms.