‘May the Glow Be With You’ 5K fundraiser brings Galactic fun to Fowlerville on Sept. 19th 

    Calling all rebels, Jedi, glow warriors, and community heroes! Torch180 invites runners, walkers, families, and Star Wars fans of every age to join the adventure at the ‘May the Glow Be With You’ 5K, a one-of-a-kind glow-themed fundraising event taking place on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 7:30 p.m. in Fowlerville. 

    More than just a race, the ‘May the Glow Be With You’ 5K is an evening of community, creativity, and purpose designed to raise funds and awareness for Torch180's mission while bringing people together for an unforgettable night under the stars. 

    Participants can choose their own path through the galaxy by running, walking, or marching the illuminated 5K route. Families with young adventurers can participate in a 1-Mile Fun Run, while supporters unable to attend in person can join the mission through a Virtual Glow 5K from anywhere in the universe. 

    "This event is about more than crossing a finish line," said a Torch180 representative. "It's about bringing people together to shine a light on hope, opportunity, and community support. Whether you come dressed as your favorite character, form a team with friends, or volunteer to help, every participant plays a role in helping our mission grow stronger." 

    The event encourages community involvement in a variety of ways: 

        • Run, Walk, or March with the Rebellion in the Glow 5K 

        • Lead Your Squadron by forming a fundraising team 

        • Bring Young Padawans to the family-friendly 1-Mile Fun Run 

        • Take the Mission Virtual by participating from anywhere 

        • Host a Rebel Glow Station to cheer on participants along the course 

        • Become a Glow Trooper by volunteering before or during the event 

        • Arrive in Cosplay and Celebrate the Fandom with fellow Star Wars enthusiasts 

    Participants are encouraged to light up the night with glow gear, creative costumes, and team spirit while helping Torch180 continue making a difference in the lives of those it serves. 

    Registration is now open. To learn more, register, volunteer, or create a team, visit May the Glow Be With You 5K - Torch 180's Glow Run at Torch180.org 

    Torch180 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young adults with disabilities and other disadvantages through vocational training and employment opportunities. 

 Williamston Summer Concert Series ends season on Aug. 20 with ‘Horizon’

    The Williamston Summer Concert Series ends its season this Thursday, August 20th with ‘Horizon’ from the Great Lakes Naval Station, North Chicago, Illinois. The concert is 7-9pm at McCormick Park.

    ‘Horizon’ is a high-energy, seven-piece popular music group serving as musical ambassadors throughout the Midwest. Composed of active-duty sailors, the ensemble performs rock, pop, R&B, country, funk, and jazz for community outreach.

    ‘Horizon’ is presented by the Williamston Area Beautification Fund and sponsored by Tailgators. Concessions by the Williamston Area Senior Center. Adult refreshment can be purchased at any of four downtown restaurants.

    The 2026 concerts patrons included Williamston Rotary, Custom Built Design & Remodelling, Granger Waste Services and Xfinity/Comcast.

 State veterinarian reminds animal owners to make vaccinations a priority

    Late summer is a time for road trips, camping, outdoor adventures and plenty of time with family, friends and companion animals. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding owners to ensure their animals are up to date on vaccinations as summertime activities heighten the risk of exposure to contagious diseases.

    "Spending time outside brings risks of exposure to diseases through wildlife, other animals, ticks, mosquitoes and environmental sources of pathogens," said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM.

    “As you work with your veterinarian to provide the best care for your animals, be sure to discuss vaccine recommendations to protect your animals from diseases they may encounter in the coming months.”

    Animal vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive veterinary care and offer many important benefits, including that they:

        · Help shield pets from a range of contagious and potentially                life-threatening diseases, such as rabies.

        · Reduce the likelihood of expensive treatments for illnesses                that can be prevented.

        · Contribute to a healthier world by protecting other animals -              and in some cases, people from contagion.

        · Are required by many animal boarding, grooming and training            facilities, as well as for travel to other states or countries.

    Before heading out for summer adventures, owners can help protect their animals with the following steps:

        · Check vaccination records. Make sure your animals are                     current on recommended vaccines and ask a veterinarian                     whether any boosters are due. Michigan law requires dogs to               be currently vaccinated against rabies. Dogs can also be                       vaccinated against serious diseases such as distemper,                       parvovirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza and leptospirosis.

              For cats, key vaccines include those for rabies, feline                       leukemia, panleukopenia, herpes virus and calicivirus.

        · Vaccinations aren’t just for cats and dogs. Horses, rabbits,              ferrets and other animals also need vaccinations appropriate              for their species.                                                                                       Horses benefit from vaccinations for rabies, West Nile virus,            eastern and western equine encephalitis, as well as tetanus.                  Rabbits should be vaccinated against rabbit hemorrhagic                    disease. Michigan law requires ferrets to be currently                          vaccinated against rabies.

        · Consider your pet’s age and lifestyle. An animal that hikes,              camps, boards, attends daycare or regularly interacts with                    other animals may have a higher risk of exposure to                            contagious diseases.  Also, make especially sure to keep                      young animals on a vaccine schedule. Developing immune                  systems need additional protection.

        · Plan ahead for travel. Michigan law requires ferrets, dogs                and some cats to have a current rabies vaccination before they            can be imported. Other vaccinations may be required to come            to Michigan or travel to other states or countries, depending               on the situation. View Michigan’s import requirements or                   contact the state animal health official of where you’re going             to determine requirements for movement and paperwork.

      · Keep records handy. Store vaccination records where they can          be easily accessed, particularly when you travel or seek                      emergency veterinary care.

    For more information about recommended vaccinations, animal owners can contact their veterinarian. More information on animal diseases can be found on MDARD's website.

 Fowlerville Fairgrounds to host afternoon of harness rcing on Aug. 27th

    The Fowlerville Fairgrounds will host an afternoon of harness racing on Thursday, August 27th. Post time will be at 12 noon. Admissionis free to both the grounds and grandstand.

    The race meet is for two and three-year old colt and filly trotters and pacers in the MHHA Blue Circuit, with eight divisions.

 Fowlerville District Library

Upcoming Events

Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm

Friday: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

  For any questions, or to register for programs, call us at                517-223-9089

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KIDS & FAMILY

Family Storytime (Ages 1-5)

For families with “littles” to learn, play and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes, movements, and activities. Playtime and crafts included! 

Tues ● 10-11am

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Toddler Storytime (Ages 0-3)

A storytime for the “littlest littles” to learn, play, and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movements that appeal to short attention spans. 

Wed ● 10-11am

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Kids Club (Ages 6-12)

All the fun of Lego Club, but with more! Now you can play a game, complete a craft or activity, and still build with your favorite bricks. 

Thurs.● 4pm

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Graphic Novel Book Club

Read the book and then come to discuss it. Snacks provided. Books are available at the front desk and are yours to keep. We will be discussing SUMMER VAMP by Violet Chan Karim. 

Mon, Aug 24 ● 4pm

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Book Boxes (All ages)

Fill out the online form by visiting the events page on our website. Let the librarians pick a surprise selection of books for you. Register the first two weeks of every month to get next month’s box, which will be ready to pick up the first of the following month.

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Reading Dragons (All Ages)

Game on! Read to earn creature cards to collect and play games! Can you collect them all? Stop by the library to grab a reading log and a starter set to begin your adventure.

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Live Homework Help

Free with your library card! Log on to HelpNow, click “Live Help”, Enter subject and grade level and enter the online classroom for expert assistance. You can find a link on our homepage.

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Sensory Playtime (Ages 2-5)

This is a drop-in playtime filled with unstructured, sensory fun! Watch your littles use their imaginations to turn everyday things into toys. Caregiver supervision is required. 

Friday, Aug 21 ● 10-11am

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TEENS

Dungeons & Dragons (Ages 12-18)

Come play D&D 5th Edition! No prior experience needed.

Wednesdays ● 2:30-5pm

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Switch Free Play (Ages 10-18)

Open gaming time with the library's Switch.

Fridays ● 2:30-5 pm

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ADULTS

Board of Trustees Meeting

The Board will meet to discuss library business, the public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Aug 20 ● 6pm

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Writer’s Group Meeting

Are you an established or aspiring author? You are not alone. There are many writers in Fowlerville and the surrounding areas. We will meet in the historical room. 

Fri. Aug 21 ● 11 am

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Route 66 Speaker

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of its creation, Rick Thomas takes us on an exploration of the origins, history, unique features, personalities and rebirth of “America’s Main Street” in today’s pop culture. 

Thurs, Aug 27 ● 6pm

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The Studio @ FDL

Did you know you can commission the library to 3D print items for you? We also have a vinyl cutter and a laser cutter. These tools have endless applications, and they are available for all patrons at no cost. Come and learn about the various machines we have and how we might be able to assist you with your upcoming projects. Please register. 

Thurs, Sept 3 ● 6pm

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Cardmaking (Adults)

Enjoy camaraderie and cards at this popular program. You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required, sign ups are open.

Thurs Aug 20 ● 6pm & Fri Aug 21 ● 11 am

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Scrapbooking (Adults)

Make the most of your memories and join us for a fun day of scrapbooking your favorite photos. Stay the whole time or for just a few hours. Everyone gets their own table. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Sat. Sept 19 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating discussions. Come and enjoy some literary camaraderie! Register to get a free copy of the book, while supplies last. Registration begins one month before each scheduled meeting. Next meeting, we will discuss THE LIES THEY TOLD by Ellen Wiseman. 

Thurs, Aug 20 ● 2-3pm

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Sewing (Adults)

Bring your sewing machine and learn from a master seamstress. All levels of skill are welcome. Registration is required. (Please notice the change in date).

Wed, Aug 26 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Sept 11 ● 10-2 pm

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Holistic Wellness (Adults)

Lyndsey Johnson from Natural Roots and Wellness presents workshops for promoting health and vitality through holistic practice. In this class, we will discuss gut health for prevention of illness and proper nourishment. Registration is required. 

Mon, Sept 14 ● 5pm

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Heartfulness Relaxation & Meditation (Adults)

Join us for a meditation session to help you de-stress, find inner calm, improve sleep and for general emotional well being. This one hour session is free and will put you in a meditative state. Registration is required, as space is limited.

Tues, Aug 25 ● 5:30pm

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Urban Pole Walking (Adult)

Learn the basics and benefits of pole walking by joining the Fowlerville Pole & Stroll Group (Loaner poles are available) 

Monday & Wednesday mornings. ● 9am

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Mixed Media With Craft and Hobby

Add a stunning dash of color to projects with mixed-media scrapbooking and art journaling techniques! Begin incorporating more color into your work by creating bright watercolor backgrounds, splashes, bubbles, and simple skylines. Registration is required and will open on July 29 for this program on 

Aug 27 ● 6pm

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Repair Cafe

Don’t throw it away! Bring your broken items here for repair and advice from handymen. 

Sat, Aug 22 ● 10-12

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Fowlerville Area Historical Society Meeting

The Historical Society will meet here. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Sept 3 ● 6pm

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Did You Know?

Did you know that we are a food collection location for the Family Impact Center? Non-perishable foods may be dropped off in the cafe area, and we thank you!

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A Friendly Reminder

We are happy to be fine-free, however after a book is 8 weeks overdue, the item will be withdrawn from our system and can no longer be returned. A library lost/replacement fee will be applied to the account. Please return your items on time so that others can enjoy them too.

 Cole Michael Tomlin

    It is with deepest sorrow that his loved ones announce that Cole Michael Tomlin journeyed beyond the veil on August 2nd, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and legendary mischief.

    Cole was born in Fowlerville, Michigan to Marvin Tomlin Jr. and Nicole Tomlin on June 3, 2000 and most recently resided in Wixom, MI. Cole is survived by his parents, Nicole Tomlin and Marvin (Stacy) Tomlin Jr.; his siblings Garrett (Morgan) Tomlin, Megan (Brent) Morris, and stepsister Raven Hodgins; his niblings, Cora and Frederick Morris; his grandmother, Susan Rich; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He also leaves behind his beloved feline, Beatrice. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Jean and Marvin Tomlin Sr. and Alan Rich.

    During the early years of Cole’s family campaign, he was in cub scouts and was a member of the County Line Rebels 4-H Club, showing animals and creative projects at the Fowlerville Fair-- his greatest accomplishments being Grand Champion Beef Steer in 2013 and Best Still Exhibit in 2014 with his tractor-part scarecrow. He attended Fowlerville Schools, graduating in 2018. Throughout his school years, Cole acted in several productions put on by the high school theater including “You Can’t Take it With You”, “Radium Girls”, and “39 Steps”. Like your typical bard, he also loved music throughout his life: playing trombone and tuba in the school band and finding joy in listening to the radio, top hits as well as off-the-wall indie artists.

    Cole was most recently employed by Pirtek USA in Wixom, MI and in his downtime enjoyed playing disc golf or online games with his friends--caring more about sharing laughter than whatever the score was. Dungeons and Dragons was a great love of his, creating and running epic campaigns as Dungeonmaster or playing a hobbit bard in the adventuring party. Cole also loved to tinker and craft, creating silly computer art to make him and his friends laugh--in 2025 he created a piece of art every single day.

    Everything about Cole was big: his heart, his mind, his laugh, his love, his hugs, (and his shoes)… His personality was larger than life and he played the comedic bard wherever he was--making good-natured jabs both with words and his finger in your ribs. He leaves an even bigger hole in his loved ones lives but we know his great big belly laughs resonate across the realms.

    A celebration of Cole’s life will take place on August 23rd from 2-5pm (open house style) at Aberrant Ales, 219 W. Grand River Ave, Howell, MI. We invite fellow adventurers, family, and friends to share stories and treasured memories as we honor a life well played.

    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your local animal shelter, nature center, or to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in his honor. You may also share the suicide hotline: 988 for calls and 741-741 for text.

 Merna Mackenzie

    Merna Mackenzie, age 91, of Portage, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Heritage House in Portage.

    Merna was born on October 15, 1934, to Harry and Omadell Wagner. She grew up in Fowlerville, Michigan, where she graduated from Fowlerville High School.

    On August 22, 1958, she married the love of her life, Virgil Mackenzie, in Fowlerville, Michigan. Throughout her working years, Merna was employed as a jeweler's assistant and later worked as a school cook, where she enjoyed serving others.

    Merna found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved tending to her garden, spending time reading, taking trips with her sisters, and doting on her beloved little dog, Ernie.

    She is survived by her daughter Debra Mackenzie and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Virgil; siblings Lorene Morgan, Phillys Lillard, James Wagner, Joan Steel, Patricia Bowers, John Wagner, Wanda Rathbun and Carolyn Young.

    A special thank you to the staff at Heritage House in Portage for their compassionate care of Merna, Portage EMS, and Grasse Funeral Service. Memorials may be sent to the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society in honor of Merna.

    A Celebration of Life was held Wednesday, August 5, 2026 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville. Online condolences may be made at www.grassefs.com. Grasse Funeral Service in Pardeeville is serving the family.