June 9, 2012 • Vol. 133 No. 23 514 S. Kalamazoo Ave. in Marshall, MI • Phone 269-781-5444 and FAX 269-781-7766 • www.advisor-chronicle.com
In The News:
Wilder Creek Conservation Club is and
Council hears comments from both sides regarding Hospital Campus Overlay District
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During a public hearing at Monday’s City Council meeting, a crowd of more than100 gathered in the City Hall chambers to share their thoughts about the proposed Hospital Campus Overlay District. The council heard recommendations including the approval of the Hospital and Neighborhood Committee’s plan; approval of the plan with recommendations made by the Marshall Planning Commission; and denial of the plan in its entirety to keep Marshall’s historical integrity intact. While many concerns were brought forward, one point was clear: “Emotions are high and we are facing some tenuous times,” said Oaklawn Hospital Board of Directors member Joe Palchak. See story on page 12
THRIVING!
Bus driver Carole Reynolds sees the end of the road After 38 years, Marshall Public Schools bus driver Carole Reynolds drove her last route on June 6. “I’ve enjoyed the people I’ve worked with for the last 38 years, and I think I’ve gone through more bosses and superintendents than anyone,” Reynolds joked. “But I’m done now.” Reynolds said her favorite part of her job was having the privilege to drive the special needs bus for 14 years. “If I still had my babies, I would still be driving, not retiring,” she said. This year Reynolds drove a regular route because the special needs bus was contracted out to Dean Transportation of Lansing. See story on page 52
MPS holds graduation ceremonies Both Marshall Alternative High School (June 1) and Marshall High School (June 2) held their respective commencement ceremonies last week. Speeches by the class and keynote speakers from each ceremony as well as photos from the graduations can be found in this week’s issue. See stories, photos on page 57
After 60 years, man receives high school diploma Proving the truth of the adage that it’s never too late to be what you could have been, Hilmer “Joe” Fierke Jr. finally received his high school diploma at age 78, some 60 years after leaving Marshall High School to join the United States Air Force. Fierke received his diploma June 2 during Marshall High School’s 143rd commencement. See story on page 24
MHS girls varsity soccer wins second straight district title; Sees season end in regional semi final. Capping second half and overtime comebacks, the Marshall High School girls varsity soccer team, thanks to Chelsea Tobias’ three goals, defeated Delton-Kellogg on June 2 to give Marshall its second-straight district title. Three days later, the team saw its season end following a 2-1 loss to Grand Rapids South Christian in a Div. 3 semi final game. Also last week, MHS track and field athletes Kelsey Darling and Isaiah Fountaine earned All-State honors at the Div. 2 state meet in Grand Rapids. See sports section
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he public is invited to Wilder Creek Conservation Club on Saturday, June 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the club with a band concert in the pavilion, primitive craft demonstrations, buggy rides, a free lunch and park tours. Long time members Ernie and Ken Murray, pictured here at Wilder Creek, will be two of many in attendance sharing their Wilder Creek memories. See story on page 10