Christopher Candela announces run for Livingston County Circuit Court Judge

    Genoa Township resident Christopher Candela has announced his candidacy for Livingston County Circuit Court Judge. The position will replace Judge Susan Geddis, who retires at the end of this year.

    Candela, 30, currently serves as a Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Eaton County under prosecutor and current attorney general candidate Doug Lloyd. With extensive experience in appellate and circuit court litigation, Candela said “his dedication to strict adherence to the law and philosophical belief that personal views and agendas be left out of the courtroom makes him an excellent candidate for this year’s judicial election.”

    “I am running because our community deserves another judge who will apply the law as written, respect the separate roles of government, and put public safety and accountability first,” said Candela. “Adhering to the law without bias is essential to maintaining public trust in the courts.”

    The Wayne State University undergrad and graduate of Michigan State University College of Law stated that his career has focused on the careful application of the law – both at the trial and appellate levels. In his announcement, Candela said that his experience regarding extensive motion practice, appellate advocacy, and advising on legally-complex and precedent-setting matters have well-prepared him for the duties of being a circuit court judge.

    Candela emphasized that his decision to run is grounded in a long-term commitment to the Livingston County community.

    “My wife and I made a deliberate decision to build our lives and careers here,” he said. “The decisions made in the Livingston County Circuit Court shape the direction of our community for years to come. I take that responsibility very seriously.”

    For more information about Christopher Candela and his campaign, visit www.candelaforjudge.com.

 Fowlerville Community Schools expands investment in early childhood education

    With the opening earlier this month of the former H.T. Smith Elementary as the new Early Childhood Development Center, Fowlerville Community Schools is continuing its “strong investment in early childhood education.”

    School officials noted that this investment includes the renovation of the Smith building, expanded preschool opportunities in the larger space, and also new leadership dedicated to supporting students from their very first classroom experience.

    “Thanks to planning and the continued support of the Fowlerville community, the district has renovated the former elementary building to increase enrollment capacity for Little Glad Early Childhood,” they pointed, adding that “The updated space allows the district to serve more families while providing a welcoming, age-appropriate learning environment designed specifically for young learners.

    “Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success,” said Matt Stuard, Superintendent. “By expanding Little Glad Early Childhood and strengthening the transition to kindergarten at Fowlerville Elementary, we are ensuring our youngest learners start their educational journey with confidence and support.”

    As part of the district’s commitment to access and opportunity, GSRP (Great Start Readiness Program) preschool offerings have expanded, including Free Pre-K for 4-year-olds for qualifying families. This expansion allows more children to benefit from high-quality early learning experiences that focus on literacy, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness. In addition, the district offers both tuition-based junior preschool (ages 18 months-3 years) and preschool programs (ages 3-5 years.)

    To further support families and students, the district has hired Molly Moulton, as the new principal for Little Glad Early Childhood. With deep ties to the community and a strong background in early childhood education, Molly will play a key role in creating a seamless transition from preschool into kindergarten at the district’s new elementary school.

    “We want the move from preschool to kindergarten to feel fun and exciting for kids and families,” said Molly Moulton, Principal. “By aligning our curriculum so learning continues smoothly, building relationships early and staying connected with families, we can help every child feel comfortable, confident, and ready to start kindergarten at Fowlerville Elementary School.”

    School officials noted that this expansion builds on the district’s recent opening of its new elementary school last January — a project made possible through the support of voters who approved a community bond. The state-of-the-art facility provides students with a world-class learning environment, complete with modern classrooms, all new furnishings, and cutting-edge technology designed to support 21st-century learning.

    Today, elementary students “are thriving in bright, collaborative spaces that encourage creativity, exploration, and innovation.”

    “From preschool through elementary school, our community has made it clear that investing in children is a priority,” said Stuard. “We are incredibly grateful for that support and proud to provide facilities and programs that reflect the high expectations we have for our students.”

    Families interested in enrolling in Little Glad Early Childhood or registering their student for Kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year should visit the district website or contact building leadership at 517.223.6480 (Little Glad Early Childhood) or 517.223.6008 (Fowlerville Elementary.)

 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

Homeschool Hangout

This is a fun drop-in program for homeschoolers to connect with one another over games and activities. Each session includes a STEAM activity. 

Wed, Feb. 18 ● 1-2pm

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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 NIGHT CHEF by Mika Song. 

Mon, Feb 23 ● 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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Reading Dragon Break-In Bags (Ages 6+)

Our library dragon, Paige, has been kidnapped and locked up! Follow the clues with the help of Detective Magnum to figure out how to break her out. Participants will earn the exclusive Magnum card and Paige family pack. Second grade reading proficiency is needed to participate. Registration is Required. 

Tues, Feb 17, 1-2pm & 4-5pm

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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, Feb 20 ● 10-11am

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Spark Club (Ages 10-13)

Find your spark in a variety of creative ways at one of these programs, just for pre-teens (sorry, no younger siblings). Come to make things with polymer clay. 

Sat, Feb 28 ● 1-2pm

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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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Teach for America: Lead Change in the Classroom

Explore how Teach for America empowers young leaders to make an impact in classrooms across the country. Learn how to step into a teaching role, gain leadership skills, and spark change. 

Tues Feb 24 ● 6pm

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ADULTS

Tax Preparation Help

Stop into the library to reserve a 45-minute one-on-one slot with a tax professional to assist you in completing your tax return. There is no charge. You will be given a sheet of needed items to bring on the day of your appointment. Spots are limited. Register early to guarantee a spot. 

Tues, March 10 ● available hours between 10am-4pm

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Model Train Night

Dave Thompson will be here with his layout and with all the tips and tricks to create your own, such as the different scales available and how to keep cars and buildings period correct. Or, just come to admire. This would be a wonderful program for adults and interested children. 

Thurs. March 26 ● 6 pm

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Find Your People at the Library (Adults)

We are thrilled to continue this popular working group to explore the Ancestry Library Edition and other valuable genealogy resources. Bring your laptop or use one of our computers. 

Wed, Feb 18 ● 2-3:30 pm

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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.

Thurs, Feb 26 ● 6:00 pm & Fri, Feb 27 ● 11am

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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. Registration is required. 

Sat. Feb 21 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating the 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 up we will discuss THE BANNED BOOKSHOP OF MAGGIE BANKS by Shauna Robinson. 

Thurs, Feb 19 ● 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. 

Wed, Feb 18 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Mar 13 ● 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. She will be discussing minerals for enhancing youth. Registration is required. 

Mon, Mar 2 ● 5pm

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Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary

Shipwreck historian, Ric Mixter, is one of only a handful of people who have visited the wreak personally. He explored the site for over an hour at a depth of 550 feet. It was the beginning of over 20 years of research for Mixter. Join us to mark this grim anniversary. Registration is required. 

Thurs, Feb 19 ● 6 pm

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Repair Cafe

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

Sat, Feb 28 ● 10-12pm

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Library Closed

The library will be closed in observance of President’s Day on 

Monday, February 16.

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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.

Denna Renet (McLeod) Sattelberg

    Denna Sattelberg, age 65, of Byron, Michigan, passed away at home on January 21, 2026, surrounded by her family, friends, and beloved dogs, following a brief and unexpected diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

    She was born January 6, 1961, in Livonia, Michigan, to Donald A. and Patricia L. (Sworthwood) McLeod and graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1979. A lifetime member of the harness racing community, Denna and her husband ran a successful stable for several years. She later began a puppy rehoming business and, after the loss of the stable in a fire, worked as a travel coordinator for a worldwide carpet installation company, retiring last spring.

    She was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Sattelberg, and her father, Donald “Donnie” McLeod. She is survived by her sons, Brandon Root and Travis Root; her mother, Pat McLeod; her sisters, Linda (Bobby) Birely and Dawn Wrenn; her nieces and nephews; and many family members and friends.

    A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 26, at the Horseshoe Lounge (“Da Shoe”) in Fowlerville, Michigan. Denna embraced life with enthusiasm and grace, treasuring time spent with family, friends, and the animals she loved. 

 Old Saint Patrick’s of Ann Arbor to host Fish Friday during Lent season

    Old Saint Patrick’s of Ann Arbor will host their 48th annual Fish Fry during Lent. The menu includes Alaskan Pollack, choice of potato or mac & cheese, salad bar, and beverage. Dessert (extra cost.)

    The meal will be served every Friday, February 20 - March 2, from 4:30 to 7 PM. Adults $18, Seniors (60 and older) $14, Children (5-12 years old) $5, and Children 4 and under free. The church is located at 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd., Ann Arbor. Ph: 734-662-8141. www.stpatricka2.org

 Oak Grove United Methodist Church hosting Spaghetti Dinner on Feb. 21st

    Oak Grove United Methodist Church is hosting a Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The chuch is located at 6686 Oak Grove Road, Howell (5 miles north of M-59). Our United Women in Faith invite you to come and enjoy a delicious meal that features home-style spaghetti sauce with noodles, salad, garlic bread and cake for a free-will offering taken at the door. No reservations are necessary. For information, call the church office at 517-546-3942.

 Livingston County offers online pre-order sale of compost bins   & rain barrels

    The Livingston County Solid Waste Program is hosting a Compost Bin & Rain Barrel Sale through April 5, 2026. Available items are the SYSTERN Rain Barrel for $69.95 ($130 value) and the Earth Machine Compost Bin for $69.95 ($130 value). Also available are compost pails, rodent screens and aerators. This is your opportunity to purchase these high quality products at high volume pricing.

    This is an ONLINE PRE-ORDER SALE only. Details on products and ordering information can be found at https://livingston.compostersale.com All orders must be submitted and paid for by April 5, 2026, or while supplies last. The PICK UP DAY for all pre-ordered items is Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 9 am until 12 pm at the Livingston County Garage located at 918 North Street in Howell.

    Events like this are made possible through the Livingston County Drain Commissioner-Solid Waste Program and the Livingston County Board of Commissioners. Further information is available on our website at https://milivcounty.gov/dpw/composting or by calling the Livingston County Solid Waste Program at 517-545-9609 during normal business hours, or by e-mailing us at: solidwaste@livgov.com.