Fowlerville News and Views Online

Fowlerville News & Views Online Edition December 2, 2012

Pictured here with their new club Interact Banner are, from left, high School Rotary Interact Advisor Paula Struble, Interact President Sam Reed, Interact Vice President Allison Clough, Rotary President Katie Pikkarainen and President Elect/Rotary Interact Advisor Keri Newstead.

Fowlerville Rotary sponsoring new group at high school The Fowlerville Rotary Club is sponsoring a new Rotary Interact Club at Fowlerville High school. President Katie Pikkarainen and Preident-Elect Keri Newstead, along with Secretary Jerry Bell, have been working to get the blub started.

President-Elect Keri Newstead has obtained teacher Paula Struble as the school Rotary Interact Club advisor. Any interested high school student is welcome to join this service-oriented club.

At the present, the club is collecting hats and mittens for the Family Impact Center. Anyone wishing to donate these items to help can drop them off at State Farm Insurance, First National bank, Harmon Real Estate or at the high School At last weekend’s “Christmas in the Ville’ ,t h club members helped with the parade staging and also participated in the parade.

Ribbon cutting at new real estate office in Fowlerville Coldwell Bankers Town & Country Real Estate recently opened an office in Fowlerville. The realtor is located at 746 S. Grand Avenue. On Thursday afternoon an Open House and Ribbon Cutting was held. On hand were the owners, the firm’s sales associates, many of their friends, and members of the Fowlerville Business Association who welcomed them to the community.

Shown here in front, from left, are Sheryl Brownlee, Beth Badark, Karen Gill, and Terry Gill, all of Coldwell Bankers Town & Country. In back are officials from the Fowlerville Business Association, from left, Brian Boyce, Dr. Henry Vaupel, Paul Harmon, and Ron Daly. The firm also has offices in Brighton and Milford.

100 Women Who Care present check to Injured Soldiers on November 19 100 Women Who Care Livingston County presented a check for$10,250 to Injured Soldiers on Monday, November 19 at 9:00am at The American Spirit Center located at 10590 E. Grand River, Brighton.

Injured Soldiers provides activities and needed resources for physical and mental rehabilitation for our wounded returning Heros. This organization is run entirely by volunteers. Their web site ishttp://www.injuredsoldiers.org Year to date 100 Women Who Care Livingston County have donated $27,150 to area charities.

100 Women Who Care Livingston County is a new resource in which charities that meet certain criteria can be eligible to be awarded funds. 100 Women's goal is to have 100 women meet for one hour four times a year and raise a minimum of $10,000 for one local non-profit organization in Livingston County. 100 Women are looking for new members. To learn more about this organization go to www.100womenlivingstoncounty.org

Important Information for the 2011- 2012 School Year: December 24-January 2– Christmas Break January 18- End of marking Period No School K-8 January 21- No School Holiday-Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 24-25–Hearing screening for 4th grade students January 29– KPTN Meeting 3:45 Kreeger Media Center February 1–No School -Teacher Professional Development February 15-18– No School – Mid Winter Break February 25-27- Hearing Re-Screening for 4th grade students *** 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 will be scheduled for students who sold $200 or more in our Frankenmuth Fundraiser after we have collected all the money. Students who qualify will be taken in a limo for a free Wendy’s lunch. Special notes will be sent home with those winning the rides, as the date gets closer. ***

Ingham County Genealogical Society meeting on December 13 The Ingham County Genealogical Society will meet on Thursday, December 13 at the Vevay Township Hall, 780 Eden Road, one mile south of Mason.

The December meeting will feature the Christmas Potluck dinner. The party starts at 6 pm with dinner at 6:30 pm.. Bring a dish to pass along with your own table setting. Spouses, children and friends are welcome. Bring an unwrapped white elephant for our auction sale (proceeds go to our treasury). We will also be collecting non-perishable food items for the local food bank. For more information call Diane Bishop, President 517-6767140.

The Fowlerville Innovation Pod was happy to present Mr. Coon from Kreeger Elementary School with the Innovation Tree Award. This award is presented to staff in the district that demonstrates innovation in their interactions with students. Mr. Coon was nominated by his colleagues due to innovative teaching for children of all abilities

6th Annual Holiday in the Park being held through December 25

The 6th Annual Holiday in the Park will create magical memories for those who live in our community as we explore and experience our beautiful city park throughout the entire month of December. The half mile rustic drive is being held now through December 25 from 6 to 8 pm.

Howell City Park will be lined with a hundred trees decorated for the season by local families, businesses, church groups, and service organizations. We have created an enchanting setting, reminiscent of a Currier & Ives painting.

As you enter the park, the cost will be $5 per car, so load up as many kids as you can and make time this season to enjoy the outdoors and get into the holiday spirit with us.

Contact us: parksandrec@howellrecreation.org or call (517) 546-0693, ext. 0.

Michigan House Report

By Cheryl Poch

December – here we come! This month should bring snow. And snow and cold weather should bring: Snowballs, Snow forts, Snowmen, Snowshoes, Sledding, Skiing, Skating and soo much more!

You know what else December will be bringing? Ebooks to the library! That’s right – as soon as we figure it out! You will be able to download books for you and your family. So if you plan on giving or getting an ebook, tablet, or smart phone for Christmas – you will be able to download books at the Fowlerville District Library and read them for free! How about that? We are still working on the details of how all this comes together – and we will keep you informed when this new ‘service’ will go into effect for our library patrons.

I hope you are enjoying our up-to-date computers. The speed is awesome. Technology is really changing everyday! Speaking of computers...we have several refurbished computers for sale at the library. The computers are cleaned up – and there are some very good deals if you need a computer for your home or child. So stop in and check it out – you may find a real bargain this month.

As I am sitting here writing this article – in the a.m. I am having some warmed up mushroom soup – it is to ‘die’ for! Nothing like hot soup on a chilly morning – mushroom soup at Olden Days Café is DELICIOUS! Our shelves are packed with new fiction and non-fiction.

Check out our non-fiction display table by the copier for some new reads in non-fiction. And of course – we have many new DVD’s on our shelves – they go out like hotcakes. Time to get your holiday movies lined up for you and the children – we have some great Christmas time movies for the entire family.

I have already picked out my Christmas Mystery – it’s a tradition with me – I love to read books that take place throughout the holidays...Halloween, Fourth of July, and especially Christmas. We will have our ‘holiday’ books on display so you can go right to the source for some merry reading!

Till next week – stop by the library and check out all our NEW materials – so much to read – let’s make the time!

Our quote for the week: “Clean out a corner of your mind and creativity will instantly fill it.”

Cindy Denby, 47th District As cold weather sets in and we are all spending much more time inside, I want to encourage all residents to learn how to protect themselves against carbon monoxide poisoning. Because carbon monoxide cannot be detected by sight, smell, or taste, prevention and awareness are essential to protecting yourself and your family.

Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, or kerosene is burned.

To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide exposure, residents should not use fuel-burning appliances including generators, grills, and camp stoves inside homes, basements, or garages. These appliances must be kept outside of these areas and away from any open windows or doors. Running a car in an enclosed garage also can create lethal levels of carbon monoxide and should be avoided at all costs. In addition, residents should purchase carbon monoxide protectors for their homes. These detectors sound an alarm if a buildup of gas it detected, alerting people in the house to potential danger.

Knowing the physical warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can be lifesaving to the victim as well as anyone in the surrounding area. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. In the event that exposure does occur, residents should immediately evacuate the area of contamination and seek medical attention.

For more information about carbon monoxide poisoning and prevention, residents can visit www.michigan.gov/carbonmonoxide. *** If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov.

Upcoming Programs at the District Library Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org.

Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event unless otherwise noted.

Family Impact Center Food Drive: Help us, help our community! The Family Impact Center needs our help! Bring in 5 non-perishable food items and check out a new DVD for free. Or bring in a food item and we’ll take a dollar off of your overdue fines, with a limit of five non-perishable food items for $5 off your overdue fines. *Not applicable to fines that are in collections. *** Retired & Refurbished Computer Sale: ONGOING. We are selling our retired computers. All systems are professionally prepped and set up. Ready to go to your home! Included in the price of a computer is the following: refurbished computer, keyboard, and mouse.

Monitors and Microsoft Office software packages are available as add-on accessories and are separately priced.

All purchased software package will be installed prior to delivery to the library and the purchaser will receive all of the discs for their computer. For more information, visit the library and see the Computer Sale Specification Sheet on display. *** Brick Building: Tuesday December 4 at 4pm. Kids 45th grade. Join your child in a special story time where they build a creation based on a theme. Seating is limited, register to attend. Registration is open. *Must be registered to attend. *** One Stroke Art: Tuesday December 4 5:30-6:45. Join art instructor Donna Raskamp for a fun holiday ornament project using the One Stroke painting technique. Classes are $9 pre-registration or $10 the night of the program.

Registration is open. *Must be registered to attend. *** Kindles, Nooks, & eReaders Oh My: December 5 5:306:30. Learn the basics in eReaders in a relaxed atmosphere, share tips and how-to amongst the group.

Total newbie?... No problem, we can help you get started. *Must be 12 to attend, must be registered to attend.

Limited to 8 attendees. There is a $5 refundable cash deposit due at registration. *** Scrabble Club: Monday, December 10 5:00-6:45.

Adults. Scrabble enthusiasts play regardless of skill level.

Improve your game and make new friends while playing at the library. Seating is limited, register early to attend. *Must be registered to attend. *** Decorate Holiday Cookies: 2 Sessions Wednesday, December 12 5-5:30 or 6-6:30. Kids 4yrs-5th grade.

Parents help their children decorate cookies to eat here or take home. Seating is limited, register to attend.

Registration opens Nov 28. *Must be registered to attend. ***

Be an Honorary Claus! Decorate Ornaments: Monday, December 17 5:30-6:45pm. Junior & High School. Decorate ornaments to keep or share while enjoying a fun holiday movie! Seating is limited, register to attend. Registration opens Dec 3. *Must be registered to attend. *** Decorate Snowman Candle Holders: Thursday, December 13 6-8pm. Adults. Come turn wine or water glasses into adorable snowmen candleholders. *You must register to attend. Register in person at the Circulation Desk. There is a $5 refundable cash deposit payable at the time of registration.

Computer Classes @ the Library: Registration begins Monday December 3. For a full list of classes visit the library or our website. *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. There is limited seating available for all computer classes.

Committee continues to improve fair’s Historic Centre; meeting on Dec. 6 The Livingston Historic Society continues to meet monthly while planning future improvements to the Historic Centre, located on the Fowlerville Family Fairgrounds. With the repair and replacement of the Iosco Methodist Episcopal Church roof done, the committee can begin to evaluate the condition of the Kirkland House. After that information is gathered, plans can be made to raise necessary funds for the project.

Grants do exist for this kind of restoration and the committee will work to apply for several. They will also look to the community for some assistance.

Also being considered are guidelines and rental fees for public use of the Historic buildings. Some are not appropriate for public use, due to the delicate nature of valuable antiques as well as structural condition in some areas. Public use results in expenses to both the committee and the Fairgrounds so fees are being considered to address this on-going issue. The committee will evaluate and consider various options before presenting a recommendation to the Fair Board for implementation.

The Historic Society also recognized the efforts of members in clearing the Blacksmith Shop as the first of many steps in bringing a working forge on site. New members have been welcomed and their suggestions accepted to bring more improvement to the Centre.

The next meeting will be held Thursday, Dec. 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Fair Office. Area residents are invited to attend and join in the effort of preserving the history of Livingston County. Among the items on the agenda is the Dec. 9 Open House in the recently re-roofed 100 yearold Iosco M.E. Church.

Michigan Senate Report

By Joe Hune, 22nd District

With another cold Michigan winter coming, be sure to keep warm!

As we all know, Michigan winters are some of the coldest in our country. So I would like to remind all Michigan families to do their best to ensure their family’s warmth this winter.

During such tough economic times, some struggling families in Southeast Michigan may be in need of heating assistance programs. Such programs are offered by several organizations, including utility companies and charitable organizations.

If you are unable to pay your current utility bill the first step is to call your utility provider and inquire as to any assistance programs that may be available. Being proactive could save your life by ensuring the heat stays on.

Further, The Winter Protection Plan safeguards seniors and low-income customers of regulated natural gas and electric companies from service shutoffs and high utility bills between Nov. 1 and March 31. The plan allows eligible seniors and low-income customers to avoid shutoffs while paying nothing or a small percentage of their annual bill during the protection period. To apply, contact your natural gas or utility company.

This deferment plan should help alleviate the burden of high utility bills in the winter. After the protection period, participants must pay off any winter balances owed between April and November.

Under some circumstances the state of Michigan can provide assistance for those who can generally make payments but may need help due to an unexpected emergency.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/heatingassistance. At this site you can also find information about the Michigan Home Heating Credit.

Finally, those still in need of heating assistance may contact The Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency by visiting www.smcaa.com.

Families in need of help with home heating or other programs may always contact my office for assistance toll-free at 1-855-563-4863 or by email at SenJHune@senate.michigan.gov.

The late Crystal Near is shown here with her daughters, Matilyn and Morgan.

Community mourns loss of dear friend Our community has lost a dear friend and idol to many in Fowlerville. Crystal Near joined her husband on his birthday, Saturday, November 17.

Crystal has had a long road and battle with cancer since 2008 when her husband Matt was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Crystal was by his side for the 15 months that Matt fought his cancer before losing his battle on January 16, 2009. Eight short months later, Crystal began her own battle with breast cancer.

Friends and family remember Crystal for her courage, strength and beauty as she went through three years of battling breast cancer. Throughout treatments, Crystal never slowed down and was involved in coaching her daughters in cheerleading, participating in Relay for Life, volunteering at school, dance and gymnastics. Crystal will forever be remembered for her smile and never giving up through her battle.

For those wanting to help support Crystal’s daughters, Matilyn and Morgan, a trust fund has been set up and contributions can be made to: Crystal Near Trust, James Raisigel, 7600 33 Mile Road, Bruce Twp., MI 48065.

Bambi’s Not Always Gentle Almost before my daughter had arrived with a beautiful crab dip and crackers appetizer to be enjoyed before the Thanksgiving dinner, my granddaughter announced that she had become a vegetarian. Such announcements were not unusual with her, indeed the aroma of crabmeat led to a second announcement that she didn’t consider crabmeat real meat because they lived under water.

What we all wondered was where she got the idea of becoming a vegetarian in the first place. And it wasn’t long before she enlightened us.

“How could anyone shoot a deer,” she began. “Those beautiful, gentle creatures never hurt anyone and hunters just slaughtered them for no good reason!”

It was at this point that I tried to come up with an explanation that would at least partly relieve her concerns and stop her new practice somewhere short of starvation.

“Few people,” I began, “hunters included, can look into the eyes of a whitetail and not be moved. A good many hunters, in fact, have been moved to the point they couldn’t pull the trigger. This condition is commonly called ‘buck fever.’”

“But deer, bucks and sometimes does as well, have another side to their dispositions,” I continued. “They will attack humans and occasionally inanimate objects. And they can seriously injure or even kill with their antlers and hooves. Still these attacks seldom make the news, perhaps because they aren’t accompanied by growls, snarls and the gnashing of teeth. If they were, reports of these instances might surpass those by other creatures such as bears.” And so I told her of the following.

As far back as the 1840s there have been documented cases, even in southern Michigan.

Theodore Potter, for whom the village of Potterville was named, went with his younger brother and dog to fetch the family cow and bring her home for milking. A massive buck deer, enamored with the cow, had other ideas and attacked the boys. Ted, who was perhaps ten years old, grabbed a club, and with the dog nipping at the deer’s heels, dodged about in the thick woods with his brother. But not wishing to leave the cow, he stayed and eventually clubbed and killed the buck.

So large was the animal that it is said that chief Okemos came to see the “brave little white boy.” It is also said that

this episode led to a lasting friendship between the boy and old Indian.

Most battles between bucks for dominance in an area are brief and mainly bluff. Still, many of us have heard or even seen, where a disgruntled loser has turned on a human or another creature.

An especially strange show of aggression occurred at my son-in-law’s rural Clinton County home. An antlerless deer, possibly a springtime buck, repeatedly charged into a newly installed cyclone fence beside his garage, until the fence was flattened and two of the concrete anchors were pulled from the ground. With the obstacle down, the animal and a companion deer, bounded through the opening and into the field.

The bottom line is that the beautiful, brown-eyed deer that evokes so much emotion in anti-hunters and hunters alike can be a Jekyll and Hyde. It is not always the innocent and gentle creature we are led to believe. Not when something’s got it stirred up!

Another bottom line. My granddaughter likes to eat and whether she was listening to me or not, I’ll bet her plate will be full of whatever there is to eat the next time I have a meal with her!

Webberville students help with food collection for local food bank The Webberville FFA and the National Honor Society teamed up to collect non-perishable items to donate to the local food bank. Grades 6th-12th participated in the event, with donating 248 cans of food and about 75 pounds of fresh chicken that the members raised. “Being involved in FFA and NHS gives me many opportunities to be involved with helping the community. Donating food to the food bank was beneficial to me and my community,” said Sarah Decker. Webberville Schools donates food to the food bank every year, along with fresh chickens from the state broiler contest.

Shown here is NHS and FFA member, Owen Judd, packing boxes for the families.

OFFICE HOURS: Administration Office 7:00 am – 3:30 pm Counseling Office 6:00 am - 2:30 pm *** IMPORTANT DATES: Dec. 6--Fall play begins Dec. 15--ACT Prep Dec. 17--Progress Rpt 3 Dec. 24--Holiday Break *** Parents & Students-School policy is that if you are not staying after for athletics or academic events you need to go home. Students are not allowed to be in any hall other than the main hall after school unless you are here with a teacher, coach or administrator. *** Fall show, All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten! This show is a multi-media storytelling montage--full of music, laughs, and AH-HA moments. It's not really about kindergarten at all. It's about growing up, being a kid, being an adult, and about life and what matters most in life. People of all ages will be able to identify with different parts of it. Show dates: Dec. 6 - 9. *** Fowlerville High School Hosting an ACT Prep Workshop in December -An "ACT With Writing" Test Prep Workshop will be held at Fowlerville High School on Saturday, December 15. The workshop will be run by Dr. Frank Bernier in the FHS Cafeteria from 8:30 am until 1:30 pm and the fee is $60. Students will take an authentic full-length ACT practice test and essay. You will receive your practice test scores at the workshop and the essay scores will be mailed home. Registration forms are available online at the Fowlerville High School web site or directly from Mrs. Glover in the Counseling Office. The form may be mailed to Mr. Bernier or returned to Mrs. Glover with payment by Thursday, December 13. This is an excellent opportunity to get some test taking tips prior to the Spring MME test! *** Yearbooks are on sale now! What a great Christmas gift for the season. Yearbooks are on sale for the low price of $55.00 but it will only last until Friday, December 7!

After that, the price will rise to $60.00. Order now online at smart-pay.com to get this low price locked in. *** SENIORS...senior pictures are due by December 14.

Please bring them in on a disc labeled with your name to Mrs. Hardenbrook, room D214 by that date to be considered in the yearbook. OR you or your photographer can email them to yearbook@fvl.k12.mi.us as well.

Parents, would you like to put an ad in the yearbook for your senior that is graduating this year? Senior ads are

due December 5 to Mrs. Hardenbrook, room D214, drop them in the office or email them to yearbook@fvl.k12.mi.us. Limited space is still available.

See the school website for a form and prices. *** Let It Snow-The Fowlerville Snow Club is anxiously awaiting the first snow! The club is open to 5th through 12th grade students. We ski/board at Mt. Brighton every Wednesday, beginning January 9 and run through February. A parent meeting will be held Wednesday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria at the Junior High School. If you have any used equipment you would like to sell, please feel free to bring it to the meeting. For further information, please contact Ms. DeLuca 517-2236250. *** Do you need some extra help in your subjects? NHS is sponsoring DROP-IN TUTORING to help out students having trouble in classes. You do not need to sign up, just come in on Wednesdays in the HS library from 2:20-3:20 pm. *** The Sophomore Class is collecting old cell phones and ink jet cartridges. Please donate them to Mrs. Tomassi (class sponsor) room D-207 at the high school. Help us raise money for prom and senior year! *** Parents having trouble using Zangle to view grades, email questions to connect@fvl.k12.mi.us *** Target – Take Charge of Education–Through Take Charge of Education, families, teachers and members of the community have an easy way to raise money for our school. When you sign up and designate Fowlerville High School, Target donates up to 1% of every purchase you make with your RED card (Target® Visa® Credit Card, Target Credit Card or Target check Card) to our school. If you shop at Target stores and use their cards, please consider designating Fowlerville High School to receive the Target 1% donation! *** Ordering Transcripts for College Now Online (Michigan eTranscripts) Please visit the Fowlerville High School website for more information.

December 10: Student Council Meeting from 2:30-3:30 pm December 14: Student Council Holiday Dance 2:30-4:00 pm. Student Council is sponsoring the Holiday Dance. Cost is $5.00. Tickets will be sold during lunches and at the door. *** ATHLETICS FOR WEEK OF DEC. 3: Mon. December 3-- Boys Basketball vs. Holt; 7H, 8A at 4:30; bus leaves at 3:15; CHEER - home Wed. December 5—Boy’s Basketball vs. Eaton Rapids; 7H, 8A at 4; 30; bus leaves at 3:00 (Only 1 game for 7th.); CHEER – home Reminder: Girl’s Basketball & Wrestling for 7th & 8th graders at FJH will begin immediately after the Christmas holidays. Make sure your son/daughter has a physical on file before the first practice/tryout.

Effective immediately: Every athlete on a 2012-13 athletic team at FJH may stop by the FJH athletic office & receive an athletic pass. The athletic pass is good for admission to all HOME FJH athletic events. Coaches will provide Mrs. Recker with a team roster. Any student planning to go out for a team later in the school year may also request a pass. However, there are certain stipulations. Please see Mrs. Recker for additional information. IF AT ANY TIME, THIS ATHLETIC PASS IS MISUSED, IT WILL BE CONFISCATED & NOT REISSUED. *** Student Council Food Drive: Fowlerville Junior High School’s Student Council is having a food drive for the Family Impact Center.

The Food Drive is from November 27–December 7. Items needed are: Baked beans/ pork & beans, canned fruit, fruit juice, &juice boxes, canned meals (Spaghetti O’s, Ravioli, etc.), canned meats (chicken, ham, especially tuna), canned vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, mixed), cereal: especially “Kids’ Favorites”, condiments: mustard, ketchup, salad dressing, etc., Helpers: Chicken, Hamburger, & Tuna, Jam/ Jelly, Macaroni and Cheese, packaged meat meals, rice & pasta mixes, soaps: dish/ laundry, soups: chunky or regular, and cans of spaghetti sauce. Also, we cannot accept any “home canned” products. Thank you so much helping. *** The Giving Tree: The Junior High Student Council and The Family Impact Center have joined together to make Christmas brighter for two families. Located in the office at the Junior High School is a Christmas tree with various ornaments with gift needs labeled on them. Please remove an ornament and bring back the unwrapped gift to the office by Friday, December 14 with the ornament attached. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Any questions, please contact Mrs. DeLuca 223-6250.

*** Let It Snow: The Fowlerville Snow Club is anxiously awaiting the first snow! The club is open to 5th through 12th grade students. We ski/board at Mt. Brighton every Wednesday, beginning January 9 and run through February. A parent meeting will be held Wednesday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria at the Junior High School. If you have any used equipment you would like to sell, please feel free to bring it to the meeting. For further information, please contact Ms. DeLuca 517-2236250. *** Friends of Rachel is proud to announce the date of their second annual Maison Z. Wilkinson Fundraiser. Please mark your calendar for Saturday, March 23, 2013. In order to have another outstanding garage sale for the community, we are looking for your donations again. If you have unwanted items cluttering up your house, we would love to take them off of your hands. Friends of Rachel will accept your donations up until the actual fundraiser. If you have any questions, please contact Amy Jarvis at jarvis@fvl.k12.mi.us or 223-6225. *** 8th Grade Boys Split Against Okemos: The B team battled back in the 3rd quarter for the win. Leading the scoring attack was Bryant Martin with 18 points, while Josh Shroyer added 6, Will Coe with 4 points and Jarod Miller with 2 points for the Glads Victory. Although they didn’t score, the B team received quality minutes from Tyler Heick, Dawson Zanger, Cody Persons, Dilan Schroeder, Logan Borland, Jarrett Gawel, Josh Nabozny and Trevor Christoson.

The A Team started out flat and went into halftime with an 18 point deficit, however, they came back in the 2nd half and won the 3rd and 4th quarters, but it wasn’t enough to seal the win. Tommy Quaine created many key turnovers with tenacious defense. Leading the scoring was Cameron Brigham with 8 points, Eric Frtiz chipped in 7, Tommy Quaine with 6 points, Nick Semke, Steven Quigley and Bryce Bertl added 2 points apiece while Scott Riley added a free throw for one point. The Boys fought hard in the 2nd half and especially dominated the fourth quarter when they held Okemos to only 6 points, while the Glads were in double digits for the 3rd and 4th Quarters, but the deficit was too much from the beginning.

7th Grade Basketball: The 7th Grade boys teams both lost last week against the Chieftains of Okemos. The B team lost 45-11 and played very flat. Leading scorers for the Glads were Grant Nolan and Aaron Peiper each having 4 points, Braden Brockway had 2 and Jacob Miller had 1. The A team lost as well, 53-10 the leading scorer for the Glads was Alex Brownlee who had 4 points, Trevor Miller had 3, Dalton Sweet had 2 and Caden Collins had 1.

Fowlerville High School recognizes 2012 fall sports athletes The Fowlerville High School Athletic Department is pleased to announce the award winners from the 2012 fall sports season. Please congratulate all of the coaches and student athletes on their tremendous efforts!

BOYS SOCCER, Coach: Jerry Van Horn Co-Most Valuable Players: Schuyler Gullett and Galen Neuroth Most Improved Player: Ethan Chora Golden Boot Award - Most Goals Scored: Austin Slade (9 goals) CAAC Red All-Conference: Galen Neuroth, Uriah Nyman, Derek Kottong, Austin Slade CAAC Red All-Conference Honorable Mention: Mike Hindy, Gavin McGregor, Schuyler Gullett, Ryan Gross, Josh Bates, Taylor Flickinger, Will Massey All-Livingston County: Galen Neuroth (1st Team), nd Uriah Nyman and Austin Slade (2 Team) All District: Galen Neuroth, Uriah Nyman, Gavin McGregor *** BOYS CROSS COUNTRY, Coach: Aaron Rickens Most Valuable Runner: Tyler Burkhardt Most Improved Runner: Jacob Dix Gold Brick Award: Mitchell Newstead *** GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY, Coach: Amy Maurer Most Valuable Runner: Megan Christoson Most Improved Runner: Bridget Parker Gold Brick Award: Haley Yaremych *** SIDELINE CHEER, Coach: Cindy Champagne Most Valuable Player: Alina Bennett Most Improved Player: Josi Thierry *** BOYS TENNIS, Coach: Jim Jonas Most Valuable Player: Evan Martin Most Improved Player: David Miechiels CAAC Red All-Conference: Jacob Prochnow, Evan Martin, Taylor Lockhart/Garrett Kottong, Cody Leggert/ Grant Taylor, Drew Vielbig/ Zach Wilber, Chad Borland/Cody Durbin CAAC Red All-Conference Honorable Mention: John Grable, Greg Rocco All-Area Lansing State Journal: John Grable, Garrett Kottong/Taylor Lockhart *** VOLLEYBALL, Coach: Michelle Hardenbrook Most Valuable Player: Angie Williams Most Improved Player: Maddie Baldwin CAAC Red All-Conference: Angie Williams (Honorary Captain), Tresa Brake (Honorary Captain) CAAC Red All-Conference Honorable Mention: Kaleigh Callahan, Melissa Griffith, Maddie Baldwin All-Region: Angie Williams

All-State: Angie Williams (Honorable Mention) Team All-State Academic Award *** FOOTBALL, Coach: Bret Shrader Most Valuable Player: Jordan Jabara Most Improved Player: Adam Drake Offensive Players of the Year: Brian Moran and Nick Ross Defensive Player of the Year: Adam Coon CAAC Red All-Conference: Adam Coon (OL/LB), Jordan Jabara (RB) CAAC Red All-Conference Honorable Mention: Zack Peterson (OL), Brian Moran (TE), Brandon Ellsworth (DE), Jordan Jabara (LB), Nick Ross (QB) All-State: Adam Coon (LB)

Fowlerville Fire Report The department responded to 18 emergencies this week.

Thursday, November 22, at 3:12 p.m. personnel responded to assist EMS on N. Grand Ave. in the Village.

A second medical emergency was on Converse Road in Handy Township at 8:41 p.m.

Firefighters were dispatched to a medical emergency on Power Street in the Village on Friday, November 18. A medical emergency on Collins Street in the Village was reported at 8:23 a.m. At 12:50 p.m. personnel from the department responded to a medical emergency on Sharpe Road in Handy Township. Then, at 6:17 p.m. a medical emergency on Hazelnut Street in the Village was reported.

The department responded to a medical emergency on Stow Road in Conway Township at 1:38 a.m., Saturday, November 24. At 7:53 p.m. firefighters were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident on Grand River at Nicholson Road in Handy Township.

Sunday, November 25, at 4:10 a.m. a rollover accident with injuries on I-96 in Handy Township was reported. A second rollover accident with injuries on I-96 was reported at 4:57 a.m. At 4:59 p.m. firefighters responded to Ann Street in the Village to extinguish a fire in a culvert under the roadway.

The department was dispatched to medical emergency on Layton Road in Handy Township at 6:22 a.m., Monday. November 26. At 4:14 p.m. a medical emergency on Hogback Road in Handy Township was reported.

Tuesday, November 27, at 4:51 a.m. firefighters responded to Odell Road in Iosco Township to extinguish a fire in a woodpile. At 11:54 a.m. a medical emergency on Robb Road in Conway Township was reported.

Wednesday, November 28, at 2:03 a.m. the department was dispatched to a medical emergency on Bull Run Road in Iosco Township with a second medical emergency being at 2:29 a.m. on N. Grand Ave. in the Village. At 4:26 p.m. firefighters responded to a reported field fire Gregory Rd. in Handy but were cancelled enroute.

Area Deaths—

JeannAnn Mack-Hamann

LeRoy “Spike” Duke LeRoy “Spike” Duke, age 89, passed away on November 15, 2012.

LeRoy was born on June 4, 1923 to Roy and Myrtle Duke in Grand Rapids, Michigan. LeRoy married his loving wife Lucille on September 21, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan and together they raised 4 beautiful children.

LeRoy served our country during WWII in Italy with the 461st Bomb Group flying in B24’s. After the service LeRoy worked for Detroit Public Lighting until his retirement in 1978. He was a 42-year member of the Model A Restorers Club, and was a member of the VFW Post 6464 in Fowlerville. He will be missed dearly by family and friends.

LeRoy is survived by his children, Sherry, Vicki, Mark (Donna), Dale (Susan), grandfather of Lisa, Hugh, Jason, Heather, Jennifer, Stacy, Nicholas, Natalie, Blake, great and great great grandfather of 12. Preceding him in death is his loving wife of 64 years, Lucille, sisters, Lorraine and Paula.

The family gathered with friends on Monday, November 19, 2012 at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Hamburg Chapel. A Healing Farewell was held on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Our WWII Veterans http://www.ourwwiiveterans.com/joinvolunteer.

Please leave a Message of Comfort to LeRoy’s family by calling 877-231-7900 or sign his guest book at www.borekjennings.com.

JeanAnn Mack-Hamann, age 68, of Wesley Chapel, Florida and Fowlerville, Michigan, died of cancer, Thursday, November 15, 2012 at her home in Fowlerville.

She was born November 17, 1943 to Orill and Roberta (Howard) Mack in Howell. She is survived by her mother, husband, Wilfried Hamann; son, Duane Hamann; daughter, Deborah (Kevin) Short; brother, Owen Mack, all of Fowlerville & grandchildren: Jaci (Matthew) Riedle, Jordan Varcoe, Cody & Caleb Short, Emily, Aaron, Maggie & Mitchell Hamann.

A Memorial Service will be held on December 8, 2012 at 11:00 AM, 1st Baptist Church of Fowlerville, followed by a luncheon from 12:00 – 3:00 pm. No flowers please, requesting memorial contributions to Hospice of Michigan. (www.hom.org).

Bruce E. Cochrane, Sr. Bruce E. Cochrane, Sr., age 69, of Webberville, died Thursday, November 22, 2012 in Lansing.

He was born February 1, 1943 to Hyland G. Cochrane and Goldean Ann (Pratt) and married Sandra Kay (Sawyer).

Surviving are his son: Bruce Jr. (Rhonda), stepchildren: Holly (William) Barnes, Kenneth Farmer and Jeremiah (Stacey) Farmer, 10 grandchildren and 3 greatgrandchildren, brothers and sisters: Wayne, Joyce, Margaret (Bob), Charlie (Jeanie), Sharon (Tom), Fern (Bill) and Paul (Barb). He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra, parents: Hyland and Goldean, sister: Janet and brother: Larry.

Memorial services were held on Friday, November 30, 2012 at Williamston Free Methodist Church, Williamston, with Pastor Doug Bradshaw officiating.

Arrangements by Niblack Funeral Home, Dillingham Liverance Chapel. www.niblackfuneralhome.com.

Continued on next page

Area Death-Kirk M. Messner Kirk M. Messner, age 58, of Fowlerville, died at home on Thursday, November 22, 2012. He was born March 28, 1954 in Royal Oak. He married Marian (Plum) on July 14, 1973 in Ferndale. He retired as a senior cost estimator for the auto industry.

Surviving are his wife: Marian, son: Barry, special parents: John & Linda Plum and Jean & Fleming Pruitt.

Cremation has taken place.

Arrangements by Niblack Funeral Home, Dillingham Liverance Chapel.www.niblackfuneralhome.com.

Capital Area District Library December 3 – 9 Events WEBBERVILLE: Stitchin’ Time Drop-in Needle Arts Group: Adults.

Date: Dec. 4, 18. Start Time: 6:00 PM. Description: Beginners and experts alike are welcome to this local circle. Share ideas and conversation while working on your needle art projects in good company. Library: Webberville (WE) *** Table Games (Adults) Date: Dec. 5. Start Time: 12:30 PM. Description: Bring a friend and join this casual group of adults who enjoy games such as Scrabble, cribbage, and more. Use our games or bring along your own.

Library: Webberville (WE) *** LEGO® Club (Ages 5-10) Date: Dec. 6, 20. Start Time: 3:00 PM. Description: Drop by to build and create with your friends. You supply the imagination--we supply the LEGOS®! Library: Webberville (WE) *** WILLIAMSTON: Gingerbread Decorating (Ages 8-12) *Date: Dec. 3.

Start Time: 6:30 PM. Description: Come and celebrate the holidays during our annual gingerbread-decorating extravaganza! *Limited to 15 participants; registration required by calling 517-655-1191. Library: Williamston (WM) *** Holiday Open House & Reindeer Visit (All ages) Date: Dec. 3. Start Time: 6:30 PM. Description: Celebrate the holiday season with your friends at CADL Williamston!

Along with refreshments, music and more, get up close and personal with live reindeer. A great time for the whole family! Library: Williamston (WM)

Webberville Woman’s Advance Club The Webberville Woman’s Advance Club met on November 19 at the Family Impact Center in Fowlerville.

Jill Moon arranged the tour with director Barb Dine.

Attending the tour was Dorothy Hart from the Webberville Food Bank, members of the Club, one visitor, and two new members, Mrs. Sally Brodie and Mrs. Marlene McKinney.

The Center is located at 735 N. Grand Ave. and has been helping people in need for the past 10 years. At the present date, 1,911 unduplicated families have been enrolled in their food program, with new families being added weekly. An average of six tons of items go out to approximately 120 families each month. In addition to food, the client also receives cleaning supplies, personal items, and clothing. They also have many mentoring programs and support groups. The building is very clean, shelves well-organized and volunteer staff to help the clients with their choices of the following: Non-perishable food: boxed foods, canned meat, fruits, vegetables, cake mixes, cereal, etc.

Personal products: shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, feminine products, deodorant, etc.

Paper products: paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, napkins, etc.

Cleaning products: laundry soap, fabric softener, dish soap, glass cleaner, stain fighter, air fresheners, bleach, etc.

The Center welcomes all donations, but please no expired or open foods, also clean clothing. Please phone (517) 223-4428 before bringing any items to the Center.

The Center is a non-profit organization fully operated by a volunteer staff and financially supported by private contributions. We all came away with different ideas of how we could help and we appreciate the work done there

by Barb Dine and all the other volunteers, plus our own needs here in the Webberville Community to help the food bank.

After the tour we drove to Great Lakes Family Restaurant for desserts and a business meeting by President Nancy Webb. This time of the year, all were in a giving mood. Donations were made to the Impact Center, the Webberville HD Journalism Class for Christmas cards and stamps for Operation Cheer and donations for the Ingham County Association Gifts.

Our next meeting will be held December 17 at Jill Moon’s at 12:30 pm. It will be a Christmas potluck and our program will be to learn the traditions each member holds onto. At this time we’ll gather up the mittens, scarves, and hats to donate to The Friends of the Webberville Library, to give to people in need. The library will also have a holiday open house on December 12 and many club members signed up to bake cookies for the event.

We wish you all wonderful memories and generous giving to the great need out there.

must also be in its original container and include the physician’s instructions.

IMPORTANT DATES: December 7–Christmas Dance (6:00 to 8:30 pm) December 18-2:00pm- 1st Grade Musical Program (The Alverson Center For The Performing Arts) December 19–10:00am & 7:00pm-1st Grade Musical Program (The Alverson Center For The Performing Arts) December 22 to January 2–Christmas Break January 3–School Resumes *** 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. *** News from the Smith PTC (Parent Teacher Club) COMING SOON!!! Smith Family Christmas Dance: SNOWBALL ALLEY: 6:00 to 9:00 pm, December 7.

The highlights scheduled for that evening are a DJ, Photographer, Bake Sale and Basket Raffle. Come to this wonderful holiday event for Great Family Fun! *** VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Please contact our volunteer coordinator by emailing htsmithptc@gmail.com or send a note to your child’s teacher and she will pass it on the PTC. Once you are on our volunteer list, we can include you on our Volunteer Spot service to coordinate and remind you of events. Thanks for all you do for our kids! *** Basket Raffle- Thematic baskets have been beautifully put together and will be raffled at the Family Fun Christmas Dance on December 7. Each student brought home 12 tickets to sell at $1.00 each or 6/$5.00. The tickets need to be returned with the money by December 6. Write on the back of the ticket which basket you are interested in winning. The baskets were on display at parent teacher conferences and photos of the baskets are available for viewing at the school. Please join us in raising funds for additional math materials for the students!!! *** Reminder to Parents – Children are not allowed to carry any medication, and they cannot transport any medication. Please do not send in cough drops, aspirin, Tylenol, etc. with your child without going through the proper procedure, filling out the necessary forms, and bringing the medication to the office.

A parent/guardian must transport medication to and from school. Students must be aware that they are not allowed to administer medication to other students. Medication

REMINDER TO NOT PARK IN THE KISS & GO LANE. YOU CAN BE TICKETED FOR DOING SO. THAT IS A QUICK DROP OFF AREA ONLY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION.

A young man, his granddad, and his first buck

Charlie Sicher, a 7th grade student of Webberville Middle School, shares a BIG moment of pride with his granddad, Charles P. Sicher of Fowlerville.

Charlie turned 12 on November 14 so this year it was his turn to take aim. Charlie spent opening morning learning many tricks of the trade with his granddad and was greatly rewarded for his patience in the box. The hunt took place on the family farm in Fowlerville.

Pictured here are Charlie and Granddad—and the buck that didn’t get away!

WEBBERVILLE SCHOOLS DISTRICT NEWS NHS Blood Drive-The National Honor Society will sponsor a blood drive on Thursday, December 6 in the Middle School Gym. You can stop in and donate blood from 8:30AM to 2:15PM. Appointments are available, but are not necessary. Please call Sandy Judd at 521-3447, ext. 340 to make an appointment. *** Band Booster Bingo–The Band Boosters will be sponsoring a BINGO night on Friday, December 7. The games will begin at 5:00PM in the HS café. *** Board Meeting–The next board meeting will be on Monday, December 17 at 7:00PM in the Spartan Center community room. *** Christmas Break–Students will be on Christmas break from Monday, December 24– Friday, January 4. School will resume on Monday, January 7, 2013. *** Spartan Yard Signs–The varsity volleyball team is selling customized yard signs for the low, low price of $20 per sign. The sign will be created using your child’s name and their chosen sport or musical interest. Order forms are available in the district and secondary offices, or you can download a form from the homepage of the district website. Buy a sign and support your Spartan volleyball program!

WEBBERVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Boots and Shoes Available-New boots or shoes are available for your children, compliments of Old Newsboys of Greater Lansing. If you’re in need of footwear, stop in the office and pick up an application!

Call Sue Douglas at 521-3071, extension 216 with any questions. *** Elementary K-2nd Grade Concert–Join the lower elementary students as they perform their holiday concert on Tuesday, December 18. The kindergarten will perform at 6:00PM and the 1st and 2nd grade will perform at 6:45PM. Both concerts take place in the Middle School gym.

Webberville Class of 2014 offering gift- wrapping for the holidays Got wrap…we do! The Webberville Class of 2014 is offering a gift-wrapping event on Saturday, December 8 from 1 to 5 pm and Saturday, December 22 from 4 to 8 pm. The events will be held in the Webberville High School Cafeteria. Good will donations will be accepted.

WEBBERVILLE SECONDARY SCHOOL Webberville Spirit Shirts–The Athletic Department will be selling Webberville spirit shirts to Middle School and High School students. If you buy a spirit shirt you are able to enter ANY high school winter sport for free! The cost of the t-shirt is $25. If your family already has an athletic season pass, the cost of the t-shirt is only $10. Order forms are available in the secondary office. Return the order form and payment to the office. *** Toys for Tots Drive–The annual Toys for Tots Drive is underway. Helping community members during their time of need is rewarding for all ages. The joy you feel from helping out is immeasurable. Please donate a new, unwrapped toy. Donation boxes are located in the secondary school. With your support, we can help make a difference in our community. *** Band Concert–The 6th -12th grade bands will perform a concert on Monday, December 3. The concert will take place in the middle school gym at 7:00PM. *** Choir Concert–The 6th–12th grade choirs will perform their holiday concert on Wednesday, December 12. The concert will take place in the HS café starting at 7:00PM *** The Rivalry–Showdown in Motown!–The Webberville Spartans Boys Basketball team will play against the Morrice Orioles on Friday, February 1 at The Palace of Auburn Hills! This very special game will tip off at 3:20PM. Purchase tickets and watch the varsity basketball game, and then stay to watch the Detroit Pistons take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:30PM tip off). Ticket prices are $20 for upper level seats and $40 for lower level seats.

Contact Coach Travis Brown for more details and to purchase tickets, 517-521-3447, ext. 320 or tbrown@webbervilleschools.org.

Webberville Library holiday open house being held December 12 The FRIENDS OF THE WEBBERVILLE LIBRARY is sponsoring their annual Holiday Open House at the Webberville Library on Wednesday, December 12 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be free homemade cookies and punch served. Children will be able to make a free craft item and take the completed project home. Greg Howe will perform holiday music on his guitar.

of a true Gladiator. He works hard, asks phenomenal questions during class, knows when to laugh, banter and joke and also know when to really push himself and his classmates. He is an absolute joy to have in class.” Jesse’s dedication and determination helps him to succeed beyond high school. After high school, Jesse plans on going to college; however, he is undecided yet as to what he wants to go for. He would also like to train as a MMA fighter and hopes to make it to the UFC. Jesse’s advice to underclassmen would be, “Do your homework and try to make high school, the best four years of your life.”

Congratulations Jesse, on being this week’s Student of the Week!

Fowlerville Athletic Dept. sponsoring 2nd Annual “Get Your Pink On” event Feb. 1

Student of the Week--Jesse Stricklin

By Cara Iafano

Congratulations to this week’s Fowlerville High School Student of the Week, Jesse Stricklin! Jesse is the son of Rick and Heidi Stricklin and has two older sisters, Shana and Corine. Jesse is a junior this year and just moved to the Fowlerville district. He is setting in well, making friends, and becoming a favorite student for teachers.

“Jesse has been a fabulous addition to FHS,” said Mrs. Connor. One way Jesse is settling into his new school is that he is a part of the FHS wrestling team. When his time isn’t spent doing schoolwork or wrestling, he’s at home relaxing and playing videogames.

Jesse’s schedule this year consists of Physics, Advanced Conditioning, Earth Science, Pre-Calculus, Economics, and Junior Lit and Comp. Jesse doesn’t really have a preference on his favorite teacher. He loves all of the teachers at FHS equally. One thing Jesse will miss about Fowlerville High School when he graduates next year is all of the teachers. One of Jesse’s teachers, Mrs. Tomassi had much to say on his behalf, “He is extremely positive and a delight to have in class! He is charismatic and sincere in everything he does and says. I appreciate his willingness to participate in class, as well as be a role model to his peers.” Jesse’s favorite class is Advanced Conditioning because he enjoys working out very much.

It also helps him stay fit for wrestling.

Jesse was nominated by Mrs. Connor, Mrs. Tomassi, and Mr. Jonas. Mrs. Connor commented, “Jesse is a new student who is quickly showing the dedication and drive

The Fowlerville Athletic Department is sponsoring its 2nd Annual “Get Your Pink On” basketball event on Friday, February 1 vs. Ionia. The boy’s game begins at 6 pm, followed by the girl’s game at 7:30 pm.

There are three levels of sponsorship: Pink Sponsorship is $100 and includes official pink uniform worn by a boy’s or girl’s basketball player with the name of a cancer victim/survivor of your choice on the back, your company logo or family name on a banner hung in the gym during the event, your company logo or family name on the back of a pink T-shirt, your company logo or family name in the game program, thank you announcement.

Purple Sponsorship is $50 and includes your company logo or family name on the back of a pink T-shirt, your company logo or family name in the game program, thank you announcement.

Gold Sponsorship is $25 and includes your company logo or family name on the back of a pink T-shirt and your company logo or family name in the game program.

All profits benefit the American Cancer Society.

Artwork and logos should be emailed to: copelandc@fvl.k1.mi.us. For more information please call Curt Copeland at (517) 223-6070.

Fowlerville Equestrian Team accepting applications for 2013 season The Fowlerville Equestrian Team is accepting applications for the 2013 season. Our season starts in the early spring with our Junior Team, and goes through the fall with our Senior Team.

Please send a resume to P.O. Box 527, Fowlerville, MI 48836 or contact Tammi at 517-404-5648 if you are interested in coaching our Junior or Senior teams or both.

We are looking forward to another great year! THIS IS A VOLUNTEER POSITION.

Last year, she won MVP and most spirited. “Over the last three years, I have seen Sarah grow into an outstanding leader and she is the type of leader that leads by example,” said Varsity Cheer Coach Janet Wilson.

Decker’s most memorable part of high school was all of the friendships and memories she has made. She wants to thank all of her friends for the great memories especially her best friends Kayla Aldapa, Owen Judd and Kyle Reed.

“I have been good friends with Decker since 10th grade,” said Senior Owen Judd. “She has always been there for me, and I will miss her great personality and her smile. Sarah is an awesome person and she will be missed.”

Decker plans on attending Michigan State University in the fall for Business Management or Hospitality. “I am excited to go to college but I will miss seeing all my friends and always having help from all the teachers,” said Decker.

Decker’s advice to the underclassmen is to, “Always participate in everything you can and don’t get caught up in drama. High school goes by fast, make sure you make the best of it.”

Senior Spotlight- Sarah Decker

By Kayla Aldapa

“Sarah Decker is an excellent student; she is very caring and is very passionate about learning,” said U.S. History Teacher Mr. Joshua Moulton.

Decker is the daughter of James and Sherry Decker and the younger sister of Nick Decker a 2007 Webberville graduate.

“I would like to thank my parents for always being there and supporting me and making sure I did the best I always could,” said Decker. “Also, I would like to thank all my teachers for pushing me to do my best.”

Throughout Decker’s high school career she has been very involved as the treasurer for the National Honors Society and the class of 2013. She has been a part of Journalism, Spanish Club, FFA, ROOTS, Student Council and Varsity Cheerleading.

“Being involved in these clubs made me come out of my shell, and it’s was a great way to make friends, they always kept me busy but it was worth it,” said Decker.

“Sarah has managed a schedule that balances athletics, extracurricular activities, and academics,” said Colleen Scott Keiser journalism and FFA Advisor. “Her commitment to each is evidenced through success and clear accomplishments.

Athletically, Decker has been on the Varsity Cheer team for three years and co-captain for two years.

“Cheerleading has taught me a lot about being a leader and has made me lifelong friends,” said Decker.

Webberville United Methodist Church announces Christmas celebrations The Webberville United Methodist Church invites friends and family to join us this advent season as we prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus. Once again the United Methodist Women will be having their Cookie/Candy Walk. On Saturday, December 15 from 8:30 to 10:30 am. The ladies will be selling a wide variety of cookies for $5 a pound and individually priced boxed candies.

On Sunday, December 16, during the 11 am worship service, our church members will be presenting a play directed by Richard Leathem entitled “In Bethlehem Inn”.

It takes place in the dining room of the Bethlehem Inn on the night Jesus was born. The play was written by John Carter and produced by special arrangement with Contemporary Drama Service, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Christmas Eve Services begin on Monday, December 24, at 7 pm with a candlelight and communion service.

Our services are friendly, relaxed and open to everyone.

We are located at 4215 E. Holt Rd (corner of Holt Rd & M52). We offer a handicapped accessible facility.

Childcare for infants to 3 years will be available at the 7 pm service.

For more information, call the church office at (517) 521-3631 or the parsonage at (517) 521-3434.

Webberville Garden Club News The Webberville Garden Club met October 11 at the home of Russell and Maryann Bloom; thank you both for hosting us for the evening. The evening speaker was Teena Munsell of Munsell Farms; she spoke of pumpkins and gourds and gave us a wonderful history of their farm.

Thank you Teena for the program and all your support to the Webberville Garden Club and Junior Garden Club.

After the wonderful program Vice President Rose Varesi opened the business meeting. The group discussed how well the Fireman Field Days booth did in September and things we can do in the coming year to improve our annual fundraiser. Nancy Webb talked about the pumpkin contest that was hosted along with McDonalds.

Thank you to Debbie of McDonalds and the Williamston McDonalds for getting the coupons to us!

The group talked about hosting a Standard Flower Show next year. The final ballot of officers was discussed and the new officers will be installed at the November meeting. The next meeting will be held at the Webberville Community Center on Nov. 8.

October birthday wishes went out to Nick Bosworth. Get well wishes went out to Marge Showerman. *** The Webberville Garden Club met November 8, 2012 at 6pm at the Webberville Community Center for our last meeting and our annual potluck with our members and their families. Thank you to Terry and Jet Johnson for hosting the very fun evening.

After dinner we enjoyed a gift exchange. Then Vice President Rose Varesi opened the business meeting with the Devotional and Gardeners Creed. The group discussed dressing up the planters downtown with greens and a bow. The group agreed to do it with Rose to check with a local tree farm Moons Tree Farm to see if they would donate greens.

Jeannie Bosworth and Julie Hath discussed the Junior Garden Club and thanked the group for all their help and support with the group. We are up to 23 children at the Webberville Elementary School. They will be doing a Standard Flower Show "Let It Snow" on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 at the Holiday Inn Express in Okemos, MI. Jeannie and Julie asked the group for items to help the children with their projects. Julie and Alice Lott will also be displaying in the adult section.

The group agreed to again adopt a family for Christmas and also donate to the Webberville/Williamston Food Banks. We are very proud to give back to the community. After the meeting Rose, the out going Vice President was thanked for all her hard work and presented with roses. A big thanks to Louis Bauer our outgoing President and our Treasurer Marge Showerman for their many years of service to the club.

The installation of the new officers was held and they were sworn in and presented with flowers. Our new President Jet Johnson, Vice President Bill Wheeler,

Secretary Kala Snyder, Treasurer Nancy Webb, Corresponding Secretary Julie Hath, Callers Barb Bridges and Bev Hugenot.

The group will resume meeting in March next year, taking the winter to plan for the upcoming year.

November birthday wishes went out to Russell Bloom, Jeannie Bosworth, Andrea Horstman, Jet Johnson, and Janet Wilson. Get well wishes to Marge Showerman.

Livingston Historic Society hosting open house on December 9 The Livingston Historic Society will be hosting an Open House at the Iosco Methodist Episcopal Church, located in the Livingston Historic Centre on the Fowlerville Fairgrounds in observance of the holiday season.

Committee members have been cleaning, polishing and decorating to show off the recently re-roofed 100-year old church. Also called the Green Church, this lovely structure was moved to the Historic Centre from its original site on Iosco Road. The committee is very proud to be able to welcome the public in celebration of such a festive season.

The Open House will be held for community members of all ages on Sunday, December 9 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. The beautiful antique organs will be showcased while providing holiday music and leading Christmas carols. Refreshments will be served. Please join us to share holiday cheer with friends and neighbors at this delightful old church.

Howell Recreation offering snowmobile safety course Dec. 3 & 5 Many people will be operating a snowmobile for the first time and along with that, new skills must be learned and new attitudes developed. Join us for a snowmobile safety class where you’ll learn the responsibilities, ethics, laws, and mechanical functions associated with operating a snowmobile. Certificates will be given upon completion of the course. You must attend both classes to receive the certificate, which is required to ride a snowmobile off of your property.

Class is held at the Barnard Community Center (415 N. Barnard St in Howell) on Monday, December 3 and Wednesday, December 5 from 5:30 to 9:00 pm. Cost is $15 for City of Howell and Oceola Township residents, $21 for Genoa and Marion Township residents, and $30 for non-residents.

For more information, or to register, please contact the Howell Area Parks & Recreation Authority at 517/5460693 ext. 0 or visit www.howellrecreation.org.

Help bring home a Merry Christmas for local families! Assistance needed with toys, gifts & food Families who have trouble making ends meet in everyday life have an even harder time doing so during the holidays. They rely on The Salvation Army to assist them in bringing home a Merry Christmas. And The Salvation Army relies on generous community support during this time of year.

Last year The Salvation Army assisted over 800 families with holiday assistance, and they expect this number to be even higher as the time draws nearer. The organization runs two different large programs by which the community can help a family in need: Toy Shop Warehouse (in partnership with Toys for Tots & Gleaners) – toys and food are needed to be distributed to families at the General Christmas warehouse. Toys and gifts can be given through various methods, including drop offs at our Lake Street location and drop boxes located at various local retail stores. Gifts and filled stockings may also be dropped off at The Salvation Army offices (503 Lake Street; Howell). The biggest need at this point is gifts and toys for teenagers (wallets, make-up kits, toiletry kits, $15-20 gift cards to any store) and volunteers to stuff stockings. Food donations can be given in any Gleaners food box, located throughout the county. Distribution for this program is scheduled for December 15th. Items will still be accepted and given out for emergency distributions until Dec. 24th.

Volunteers Needed: Bell Ringers- as one of the largest fundraisers of the season we count on volunteer bell ringers to help us every day of the week, except Sunday, from 9/10am-8pm. Groups, businesses, organizations, families or individuals can help in a non-monetary way by volunteering at our Toy Shop. Toy Shop sorting will have sorting days every week until Christmas from 10am-3pm.

Groups of 10 or more can schedule alterative days and times.

Family shoppers will also be in great demand for December 15, 18, 19 and 20 Fill A Truck wish list distributors and truck fillers needed for Saturday, December 8 Photographers and Santa’s helpers needed to help take pictures with Santa December 8, 9, 15 and 16 Media Alert: Distributions will take place on Saturday December 15 at St. Patrick church Parish Life Center in Brighton and at SonRise Church in Howell. A large (picture worthy) distribution will take place at the Toyshop (3591 E. Grand River; Howell – near Carson’s, formerly Fashion Bug) Those wanting to help can sign up to ring the bell at a kettle by registering online www.registertoring.org or call 517-546-4750– donations accepted via mail The Salvation Army P.O. Box 647 Howell, MI 48844 visit our website for more information www.salvationarmylivingston.org.

Just a Few Thoughts

By Tom Breningstall

The last article I wrote was about shopping, and I had the biggest positive response to that article than any other article I have written. It seems that I’m not the only person who is fed up with retailers wanting you to belong to their club to be able to get a cheaper price on their products. Or that you can check yourself out at the self checkout lines without the store giving any personal service or even saying “thank you for shopping here.”

But the biggest complaint was retailers, mostly food stores, not pricing their products. We are at the mercy of the stores on what we pay for their product. We can’t even compare brand to brand or know if we paid more for the same produce from week to week.

Here’s a thought: If a big box chain store or even a local store would advertise that they have individual product pricing and that everything they sell has the price marked on every item, I would think that any extra cost to the retailer for marking the price on every item would be more than paid for by the increase in business for marking every item. Anyway it’s just a thought.

We, the people over the age of sixty, do you notice that the more the county grows the less we have. Each town had its own family run lumber company. Fowlerville had two not so long ago but now Fowlerville has none. Most of the hardware stores are gone. Fowlerville had two maybe three at one time, and now thankfully we still have one and I hope everyone shops there.

Service stations are now called gas stations because there isn’t any service anymore, because there’s no checking your oil, tire pressure or cleaning your windshield. Downtown Fowlerville had six service stations along Grand River Avenue at one time and now there is one and no service.

New car dealerships are owned mostly by corporations that own multiple dealerships a lot like a monopoly now.

Are there any clothing stores that aren’t in the malls anymore?

The one thing we do have more of now are traffic lights or signal lights or as we used to call them red lights. I remember when the county had four such lights all on Grand River Avenue. One at US-23 and Grand River, one at Main Street and Grand River in Brighton, one at Michigan Avenue and Grand River in Howell and one at Grand Avenue and Grand River in Fowlerville. I can’t even start to figure out how many red lights the county has now; just too many to count.

With the Holidays coming I wish everyone life, liberty and happiness for every day of their life. Thank a military veteran for their service and smile at the people you pass by. Most will smile back at you, making your day and their day happier.

Around the House

By Andy Lekarczyk I have been asked questions about the accuracy of electric bills and meter readings for years. I have always referred people to the power company because the test equipment for verification of power being used was so expansive, it was beyond what a customer could purchase.

There are plug-in style ‘watt meters’ which can show you individual appliance use, with a price point of about $26.

This might help answer why a circuit keeps tripping after you plugged in the thirty-year-old freezer!

In all seriousness, these can help you see the savings in energy cost verses the expense of purchasing a new Energy Star rated appliance.

All new electric appliances have the ‘yellow tag’ indicating the expected energy cost to operate the unit for a year. These simple plug-in watt meters can also show you which appliances are ‘drawing too much wattage’ based on the nameplate rating of the device. This could indicate a failing motor. This plug-in style monitor doesn’t help monitor your total usage. The solution is a device in the $100-$150 price point which can monitor your entire power usage. One such device to start your search is the Efergy Corporation Monitor. These devices have sensors that ‘clip’ around your main electrical feed wires in your house panel. These wires are ‘live’ and at the point the sensors are attached they cannot be deenergized easily. Follow the directions and hire an electrician to install.

Once the sensors are in place, they ‘wirelessly’ report back to a small display which shows you the total usage at that moment, also it can display monthly usage. The monitor can be placed almost anywhere. It has provided software which allows you to track and graph usage to ‘study’ your energy usage. These units are popular in Europe where energy tariffs are in place and customers must be aware of usage. These devices can be used as a relatively inexpensively way to monitor usage on subpanels which may be feeding a leased section of a building or your home. In the past, installing a customer monitor for such an area would be a huge expense. These new devices install in 20 minutes!

With the slowing economy, many folks have moved their business back into their homes. If you have your business operation in a pole barn, garage, or basement being fed from a sub panel these type devices would allow you to monitor your energy usage. Because you now have a record of an expense, you may be able to use this come income tax time. Consult your tax professional,

of course. If you have a commercial building with one electric meter that you have divided into sections being feed by separate sub panels these devices could provide you with a way to bill actual energy use to your tenant. In the past, the expense of the monitoring did not offset the savings for short-term leases.

You can monitor residential or commercial three phase services with these devices. Hope this helps you keep track of exactly WATTS happening, Around The House.

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

Champion Chevrolet to hold Grand Opening this Thursday afternoon

By Steve Horton Champion Chevrolet is holding a Grand Opening this Thursday afternoon (Dec. 6) to celebrate the completion of its major renovation project. The event begins at noon and includes a Flag Dedication by the Fowlerville VFW, the playing of the National Anthem by the Webberville High School band, a ribbon cutting that involves company officials and local dignitaries, a live remote by WHMI radio, and the serving of a free luncheon.

The public is invited to stop by the dealership, located on South Grand Avenue, anytime between noon and 3 p.m. to enjoy the luncheon and to take a tour of the grounds.

“Our facility is twice the size that it used to be,” noted Mike Kelly of Champion Chevrolet. “We have a new entrance, a new expanded service department, and a larger showroom.”

Champion purchased the Fowlerville dealership along with one in Brighton from Jerry and Tom Waldecker in November of 2011 with the remodeling work on the local facility beginning this past May. Champion had a dealership in the Howell-Brighton area (near Lake Chemung) at the time the company purchased the two Waldecker stores. In addition to these three Livingston County outlets, it also has sites in Lansing, Ypsilanti, and Royal Oak. “This expansion shows the commitment of Champion Chevrolet to the Fowlerville area,” said Kelly. “We now offer a new, state-of-the-art facility with room to showcase over 150 new and used vehicles and to provide service and maintenance to our customers’ cars and trucks. The expansion also provides additional employment to local residents. We’ve already hired more workers at the dealership as a result of this project.”

lights when you leave a room. Another globe had empty soda cans all over it to represent how many soda cans are thrown away each year and that we should recycle them instead. Everyone thought this was a very fun project with the paper mache and the painting of the globes. The students now know how important it is to recycle and protect our Earth from waste.

St. John’s Episcopal Church hosting annual fundraiser December 15

Ms. Schmelter and Ms. DeLuca’s sixth grade students worked on a project which was a paper mache balloon that looked like the Earth. The students glued objects of their choice onto the globe to show how we leave a human footprint.

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

By Phaedra Nyman

The ways we can reduce waste is to reuse and recycle.

Turn off all the lights, recycle water bottles, recycle plastic bags or reuse them, and turn off water when not using it. You can also return pop cans for money. These are some of the many ways we can recycle items and make the world a cleaner place and reduce our human footprint.

This year, in Ms. Schmelter and Ms. DeLuca’s sixth grade classroom, the students participated in a project to learn about their human footprint. A human footprint is a person’s impact on the Earth. Everyone leaves a print on the Earth, whether it’s good or bad. Ms. DeLuca and Ms. Schmelter taught their classes about this and then students made a project.

Ms. DeLuca said, “This summer when I was traveling on the east coast, I could not believe how much pollution I saw in the ocean, lakes, and streams. When I returned home, I began recycling and wanted to help my students understand the importance of saving our planet. A few years ago, I saw a globe exhibit and I have always wanted to incorporate it into my classroom. After my summer travels, the human footprint unit was developed. It was more than I hoped for! The students were very creative.

The unit incorporated many skills such as research, geography, language arts, and technology.”

The project was a paper mache balloon that looked like the Earth. The students glued objects of their choice onto the globe to show how we leave a human footprint. There were so many creative ideas; one student put a light bulb inside of their globe to show how we could save electricity by using energy efficient bulbs or turn off

St. John’s Episcopal Church is hosting its annual cookie walk and soup luncheon n Saturday, December 15 from 10 am to 2 pm.

Delicious holiday cookies--$4.50 per pound, breads, candies, gluten free items and grandma’s attic will be offered. Carry-outs will be available) The church is located at 504 Prospect Street in Howell (next to the hospital. For more information please call (517) 546-3660.

Pinckney Knights of Columbus to host ‘Breakfast with Santa’ Dec. 8 The Pinckney Knights of Columbus will host Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 8th from 9am-11am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10601 Dexter Pinckney Road in Pinckney. There will be a delicious pancake & sausage breakfast & Christmas crafts as well! Bring a camera and a new unwrapped toy for the toys for tots program. Call 734-878-0418 for more information.

Two holiday events offered at Howell Nature Center for December The Howell Nature Center offers Hayrides with Santa on December 7th & 8th, and 14th & 15th. Friday night at 6pm and 7pm. Saturday night at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm.

Registration is required. Call 517-546-0249. *** The Howell Nature Center invites your family to breakfast with Santa on December 8th and 9th. A pancake breakfast will be served 9am - 11am both days. Reserve a spot today by calling 517-546-0249.

The Howell Community Theatre to perform ‘The Little Mermaid JR’ The Community Theatre of Howell is pleased to announce performances of The Little Mermaid JR at the Howell High School Freshman Campus. Performances are December 6th, 7th, 8th & 9th. For show times and ticket information call the theatre box office at 517-5451290 or visit the website. www.ctheatre.org

Michigan Sports Academy announces hitting clinic December 21 & 22 The month of December will have two great events to choose from: Bruce Fields, Detroit Tiger's Minor League Hitting Coach and his sons will be doing a Hitting Clinic on Dec. 21-22, while we also will be hosting our annual Winter Hitting League.

ALL FIELDS HITTING CLINIC: Michigan Sports Academy - Livingston is proud to announce a hitting clinic conducted by Detroit Tigers Minor League Hitting Instructor Bruce Fields and his son's Aaron and Dan. Coach Fields, after two years as the hitting coach for the Cleveland Indians, recently returned to the Tigers and will serve in his new role in 2013.

Coach Fields was the hitting coach for the Tigers major league team from 2003-2005. Coach Fields played parts of three seasons, one with the Tigers in 1986 and two with the Seattle Mariners in 1988 and 1989.

Dan was drafted by the Tigers in 2009 and spent last year with Lakeland (A) and Erie (AA) while Aaron was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in 2010 spending two seasons in their system.

The Fields run All Fields Hitting, a video analysis company that provides feedback to hitters.

WHEN: Dec. 21 and 22. There will be two sessions each day: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 pm and 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Players can register for a one-day session or the two-day session package.

WHERE: MSA-Livingston WHO: Open to area baseball players (minimum age 8 years of age through 12th grade) COST: The cost is $80 to participate in one session or $140 to participate in two sessions (one each day). For an additional $30, All Fields Hitting will videotape the player and then load it up onto their system and provide feedback for the player to review.

REGISTER: To register for one or two sessions, click on the Web Store tab on the menu to the left and click the link for ALL FIELDS HITTING. *** WINTER HITTING LEAGUE: The 2012-13 Michigan Sports Academy - Livingston Winter Hitting League will begin in December.

MSA - Livingston offers a Saturday morning Hitting League for baseball and softball players. You can sign-up as an individual and be placed on a team or an entire team of five players can sign-up together at a discounted rate.

Age Groups: BASEBALL 10 & Under 11-12 year old 13-14-years-old 15 & Older SOFTBALL 10 & Under 11-12 year old 13-14-years-old

15 & Older Age groups are subject to change based on registration numbers for each level.

Dates: December: 8th, 15th, 22nd January: 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th February: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd Format: Each session consists of four competitions with a 15-minute warm-up period followed by one hour of hitting. As in a real game, there will be home and away teams that will hit against either an MSA-Livingston coach or a pitching machine for seven innings (time permitting).

Cost: The cost is for one month only. Players can sign up for any amount of months desired - one month, two months or all three months.

Individual: $52 a month Registration/Payment: To pay online, visit our Web Page and click the Winter Hitting League tab.

Hartland professional theatre to present family musical Dec. 7-23 Dionysus Theatre, Livingston County’s only professional theatre, presents an original family musical titled, Home for the Holidays. Performances are December 7th through December 23rd and will take place at the new Hartland High School Auditorium, 10635 Dunham Rd. Hartland MI, 48353.

Tickets for all performances may be purchased online or by calling 517-672-6009. www.diotheatre.com

Friends of Webberville Library annual mitten, glove, hat, & scarf drive The Friends of the Webberville Library is sponsoring their annual Children's Mitten, Glove, Hat and Scarf Drive from November 26 through December 12. All donations will be given to the Webberville Area Food and Clothing Bank.

You may bring your new items to the library during the following times: Monday or Friday 2 to 6 p.m., Tuesday or Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Your donations will help some Webberville area children to stay warm through this winter.