Betty Jean Yax

    Betty Jean Yax, lifetime Howell area resident, passed away Saturday, February 10, 2018.  She was born September 20, 1925 in Fowlerville, the daughter of the late Alfred R. and Margarete E. (Schmidt) Lange.  She is the beloved wife of Donald H. Yax, Sr. whom she married September 22, 1946 in Ohio. Loving mother of Kathy (Tom) Trader of Howell, Ruth Anne (Doug Cornell) Yax of Atlanta, Georgia and Donald (Dianne) Yax, Jr. of Fowlerville; grandmother of Nick Yax of Kalamazoo.  She was preceded in death by her siblings: Katherine, Isabel, Ernest, Mildred, Virginia, Alice and Alfred.  
    Betty graduated from Howell High School in 1942.  She was the buyer and bookkeeper for Donald Jewelers, their family business in downtown Howell.  She was a charter member of Livingston Courier Questers for 52 years and a member of Gracie’s Quilters. Betty was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and sang in the church choir for 32 years.  She loved being a mother and homemaker, flower gardening and was a talented quilter and seamstress. 
    Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Tom Huff officiating.  Interment took place in Lakeside Cemetery in Howell.  Visitation was held Tuesday, February 13 at MacDonald’s Funeral Home, Howell from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Livingston County Humane Society.  Please sign the family’s guestbook at www.macdonaldsfuneralhome.com

Edward Alton Schings

    Edward Alton Schings, age 85, went to his eternal home in Heaven on Thursday, February 15, 2018. He was a beloved and valued parishioner of St. Agnes Church in Fowlerville, MI. He was a member of the Armed Services and served in the Korean War and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. 
    He is predeceased by his wife, Joann Schings, brother, Charles Schings, and sisters, Helen Robideau and Sue Kenny. Ed is survived by his children: Jeanette Oliva, Carol (Stuart) Willits, Barbara (Kerry) Appolson, Ron Schings, 13 grandchildren, and 28 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his dear friend, Candace Hartson, and beloved furry companion, Brandy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Residential Hospice or Woodlands Cancer Center in Brighton, MI.   
    Visitation was held on Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 2-8 p.m. at Herrmann Funeral Home.  A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at St. Agnes Catholic Church.  Please leave the family a condolence at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com

George Wakefield, Jr.

     George Wakefield, Jr. died on February 18, 2018 at the age of 90. George was born in Howell, MI on June 28, 1927 to George and Anna (Vincent) Wakefield. George married Betty Ann (Fogg) Wakefield of Bangor, Maine on September 26, 1947 in Howell, MI. 
     George is survived by his loving wife Betty of 70 years of marriage, two daughters, Brenda (David) Chambers and Lori (Joe Whittenburg) Wakefield both of Fowlerville. Grandchildren are John (Danyelle) Chambers of Gaines, MI, Amy (Jon) Culp of Lansing, MI, Sara (Jon Svec) Chambers of Ohio, and Dusty (Mikayla) Miles of Arcadia, MI. Great Granddaughter, Brooklyn Chambers of Gaines, MI, Step Grandchildren, Steven (Heather) Booth and Step Great Grandchildren, Trey and Ava Booth of Byron, MI. 
     George was a lifelong resident of Livingston County. He worked at Howell Electric Motors until retirement. Farming was also a big part of his life. Being an only child, he took great pride in working side by side with his dad. Milking cows in the beginning and later raising cattle for beef. The farm on Allen Road has always been home. After the days of farming, George and Betty spent many a winter traveling to Florida and Texas to become snowbirds, and getting away from our Michigan snowstorms. Enjoying their many friends they met along the way. Last few years keeping them close to home and enjoying their family.  Neighbors all knew “George”. Just watch for that golf cart to come rolling in your yard, many hearts, he touched.
     No funeral will be held. Cremation followed by celebration of life at a later date. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of George and sign the family’s online guestbook at www.macdonaldsfuneralhome.com Arrangements by MacDonald’s Funeral Home, Howell (517-546-2800)

Williamston Eagles Club hosting euchre tournament on March 9
    Williamston Eagles Club is hosting a Euchre Tournament on Friday, March 9th. Registration starts at 6:30 pm and play begins at 7pm. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places, also 'set cup' and booby prize. The club is located at 835 High St. Call 517-655-6510 after 3 pm for more information. Everyone is welcome to join the fun!

Plainfield United Methodist to serve Chicken & Biscuit Supper on March 10
   A Chicken and Biscuit Supper will be served at the Plainfield United Methodist Church, 17845 M-36, north of Gregory on Saturday, March 10, starting at 5 pm. Free will donation. Take outs available. All are welcome.

Love INC Annual ‘Heart For Giving ‘Dinner on March 1st in Brighton
   Love INC Annual Heart For Giving Dinner at Cornerstone Church, Hilton Rd. in Brighton, is March 1st. Doors open at 6:15, dinner served at 7pm. $35/person. Speaker Beth Weber, and live music. 

Mom to Mom Sale to be held at Smith Elementary on Saturday, March 3
    Smith Elementary in Fowlerville is having a Mom 2 Mom Sale this Saturday, March 3, to raise money to get fans for the classrooms. All proceeds from space rental will go directly to that cause.

‘Mary Poppins Jr.” to be performed by Hartland youth theater group in March
    ‘Mary Poppins Jr.’is being performed by the Hartland Players Encore Youth Theater group at the Hartland Performing Arts Center in March.
    The Center is located at 9525 E. Highland Rd. Show times are Saturday, March 10, 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 11, 2:30 p.m. Tickets may be reserved at the main branch of the Cromaine Library or purchased online at www.hartlandplayers.org.  The ticket price is $8 Adults/ $6 Students and Seniors. 
     Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time and the Broadway musical that played for over 2,500 performances and received multiple Olivier and Tony Awards nominations, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect Broadway Junior musical! 

Livingston County Coin Club to host spring show on March 10 in Howell
    The Livingston County Coin Club will host their spring coin show Saturday March 10, from 9:30am-3:30pm at the Howell Recreation Center, 925 W. Grand River, Howell. Contact Ken at bushman2@att.net or 223-8070 for more information.

Livingston Centre Historical Society  to meet this Thursday at fair office
     The Livingston Centre Historical Society is holding their regular monthly meeting this Thursday, March 1, at 7 p.m. at the Fowlerville Fair office. Come and see what we are doing and planning the coming months. We welcome prospective members or volunteers. Our mission is to renovate and maintain the buildings at the Livingston Centre Historical Village that were moved to the fairgrounds in the late 1990s. They consist of a train depot, caboose, church, school, barbershop, blacksmith shop, cobber/harness shop and barn.
   If you have any questions, please call Marj at 517-223-3831 or Mike at 734-673-1034.

Genesis House to host annual spaghetti Dinner this Wednesday, Feb. 28
   The Genesis House is hosting its annual spaghetti dinner this Wednesday, Feb. 28, from 3-7p.m. The House is located at 501 W. Grand River, Fowlerville. The meal includes choice of beef or vegetarian sauces, breadsticks, salad, beverages, and dessert. A donation of $10 per person is suggested. Any questions, call 517-223-1393.

Upcoming Programs at the Fowlerville District Library
   All Programs are intended for Fowlerville School District residents only unless otherwise stated.
   Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event.
Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org.
Phone: 517-223-9089

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Winter Reading Program - March 1st-30th
All Ages are invited to celebrate March is Reading Month with the first-ever Winter Reading Program at the library! Simply stop in and get a reading log. Check in once a week for a small prize. *Reading logs can be picked up starting March 1st.

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Battle of the Books Month of March
Teens 6th-12th grades. Read the books and then vote for your favorite during each week's battle. March begins on a Thursday, so weeks will run Thursday-Wednesday. Every voter will receive a prize for entering. Week 1: Wonder vs. Goodbye Stranger. Week 2: Hoot vs. Fuzzy Mud. Week 3: Because of Mr. Terupt vs. The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary. Week 4: The City of Ember vs. The Maze Runner. *One vote per voter per week please. Vote in person at the library.

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Battle of the Books: Fun-Day Fridays at 2:30pm
March 9th: Wonder (PG)
March 16th: Hoot (PG)
March 30th: The Maze Runner (PG)
Teens 6th-12th Grades. Join us at the Fowlerville Library after school on Fridays in March for a showing of some great movies based on books from this year's Battle of the Books! *Space is limited. Admittance will be given on a first-come first-served basis to the first 30 teens to arrive, and requires a 2017-2018 signed Program Permission Form.

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Beyond the Book: Hillbilly Elegy - Thursday, March 8th at 7pm
Adults. Join us for a Beyond the Book discussion continuing our winter topic: Poverty in America. Books will be given at registration while supplies last. Discussion will begin at 7pm. Light refreshments will be served. *Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 15th.

* * *

Colorful Zebra Painting Workshop - Friday, March 9th at 5-8pm
Teens 6th-12th grades. Brighten up the winter blahs by joining Paint and Pour at the library to step-by-step paint a colorful zebra. Pizza and a beverage will be served. *Registration is required and includes a 2017-2018 signed Program Permission Form. Registration begins February 23rd. Register by March 7th to attend.

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Ready to Read Michigan: I Got the Rhythm - Wednesday, March 14th at 5:30-6:30pm
Kids Kindergarten-5th grades. Celebrate March is Reading Month with us at a special One State-One Story Event! Enjoy the story and participate in some hands-on activities! *Participation is limited. Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 28th.

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Blood on the Mitten: Author Talk with Tom Carr - Thursday, March 15th at 7pm
Adults. Join us in welcoming Tom Carr, author of Blood on the Mitten: Infamous Michigan Murders 1700 to Present, the first volume in his Great Lakes Murder Series. Enjoy an engaging author talk, Q & A session, and light refreshments. *Register in person to attend. Registration begins March 1st and include a refundable $5 cash deposit. A Livingston Reads Event.

Dansville Community Center  to host euchre nights on March 3 & 17
     Do you like to play Euchre?  The Dansville Community Center at 1317 Mason Street in Dansville will be having Euchre Night on Saturday, March 3rd and 17th   starting at 7pm.   A donation of $5 per person is asked to help pay for expenses for the night.  Prizes will be awarded.  Beginners are welcome. For more information contact 517-521-4547.

Richard Dennis Brewer Jr.

Jul 30, 1952 - Feb 11, 2018

   Richard Dennis Brewer, Jr., 65, of Kalkaska, passed away peacefully at home on February 11, 2018. He was born on July 30, 1952 in Ann Arbor, son to the late Richard and Mildred (Schneider) Brewer. 
    Ric often made people smile by telling jokes. He was well-loved by many. He served his community well as a firefighter. Ric fought fires in Fowlerville from 1974 to 1980, then in Howell from 1980 to 1990. He continued with the DNR Wildland Fire in Stephenson in 1990, and then began in Kalkaska in 1992 until 2010. He had a passion for his brothers and sisters in fire service. 
    Ric was dedicated to his family and will be severely missed by his wife of 45 years Peggy (Warr); daughter Heather (Jimmy Davidson) White; sons Ryan (Emily) Brewer and Chris (Rachel Ramirez) Brewer; grandkids: Hannah White, Nick Brewer, Eddie Davidson, Seth White, Cam Davidson, and Jake Brewer; siblings: Sandy (Brian) Risdon, Kim (David) Hune, Chris (David) Martinez, Denise (Dan) Wolverton, and Steve (Michelle) Brewer; many nieces and nephews; and all of his friends whose lives he touched.
     Ric was preceded in death by his parents. A time for gathering with family and friends was held from 11 am – 12 pm on Friday, February 16, 2018 at Kalkaska Funeral Home. A memorial service followed in the Chapel of Kalkaska Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s honor to the family or the Fire Team 7 Auxiliary. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Norene Lucille Caswell

     Norene Lucille Caswell, age 74, passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2018. She was born September 7, 1943 in Pontiac, Michigan to Charles and Rosemary (Wooton) Caswell.
    Norene is survived by brothers Jack Caswell  and Jan Caswell, and sisters Patricia Wimbrow, Charlene Caswell and Betty Lacey. She also leaves behind a son: Ed Redman, daughters: Shannon Johnson, Roxanne Chase and Deanna Wilson, eleven grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren, one great great grandchild and multiple nieces and nephews. Norene was preceded in death by her parents, brother Buzz Caswell, son Bret Redman and granddaughter Cecilia Redman.
    Norene was a hard worker who enjoyed music, road trips and spending time with her family.
    Since Mom loved spring, we will have a Celebration of Life when the flowers start to bloom, where we shall sing badly, feast on sloppy joes, Black Jacks, marshmallow Circus Peanuts and stale Peeps!!!!

Upcoming Programs at the Fowlerville District Library
    All Programs are intended for Fowlerville School District residents only unless otherwise stated.
    Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event.
Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org.
Phone: 517-223-9089

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Share the Love: Card Making - Wednesday, February 21st at 5:30-6:30pm
Families. Have some card-making fun with your family and friends! We provide the cardstock, stickers, and envelopes, and you provide the designs! We will deliver the cards to seniors throughout the community at our Pop-up Library visits. *Participation is limited. Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 7th.

* * *

Winter Reading Program - March 1st-30th
All Ages are invited to celebrate March is Reading Month with the first-ever Winter Reading Program at the library! Simply stop in and get a reading log. Check in once a week for a small prize. *Reading logs can be picked up starting March 1st.

* * *

Beyond the Book: Hillbilly Elegy - Thursday, March 8th at 7pm
Adults. Join us for a Beyond the Book discussion continuing our winter topic: Poverty in America. Books will be given at registration while supplies last. Discussion will begin at 7pm. Light refreshments will be served. *Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 15th.

* * *

Colorful Zebra Painting Workshop - Friday, March 9th at 5-8pm
Teens 6th-12th grades. Brighten up the winter blahs by joining Paint and Pour at the library to step-by-step paint a colorful zebra. Pizza and a beverage will be served. *Registration is required and includes a 2017-2018 signed Program Permission Form. Registration begins February 23rd. Register by March 7th to attend.

Webberville Lions Club to host annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 31 at school 
   The Webberville Lions Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31, at 11 a.m. The hunt will take place on the athletic fields behind the high school and is open to children preschool age-3rd grade. Prizes will be awarded. Come out and find that special egg!

Fowlerville High School to present murder mystery comedy March 16-18
   Fowlerville High School is presenting The 39 Steps, the fast-past whodunit murder mystery comedy based on the 1935 Alfred Hitchcock movie by the same name. Show dates and times are: Friday, March 16, at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 17, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 19, at 2 p.m. at the Alverson Center for Performing Arts.
     This zany two-time Tony-Award- winning comedy is full of nonstop laughs, a top-of-the-train chase, an onstage plane crash, and good old-fashioned romance. In The 39 Steps, a man with an ordinary existence, Richard Hannay, meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy.  That night, she is murdered, and Richard Hannay becomes the main suspect!  Hannay, feeling trapped is on the lam, chased by the police and a mysterious spy organization.  Filled with inventive stagecraft and slapstick humor, this is a night of comedy not to be missed.
  The play s directed by Betsy Ording. Starring are Wyatt Arledge as Richard Hannay, Audrey Trinka as Pamela: the woman on the train, and Mikenna Peckens as the mysterious spy.  Cole Tomlin and Curtis Wormsbacher each play a whole host of characters--sometimes simultaneously, and many other students perform a variety of other characters, including pilots, thugs, and crocodile hunters.

Fowlerville High Class of 1973 planning reunion party 
   Attention: Fowlerville High School Class of 1973 Reunion Party. Plans being made now, separate from Alumni June 9 dinner. Contact John Kane, email-kanehomes@hotmail.com 
or 517-204-2451.

Crossroads United Methodist Church serving Swiss steak dinner on Feb. 24
   Crossroads United Methodist Church will offer the second in its 2018 winter series of Swiss steak dinners for the public this Saturday, February 24.  Doors open at 4 p.m. and remain open as long as supplies last.  The church is at the corner of Haslett and Zimmer roads east of Haslett and north of Williamston.  
   The dinner menu includes Swiss steak with mushroom gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetables, cole slaw, rolls, dessert and beverages.  Cost is $9 for adults, with children under 10 free.  Take outs are available.
    At the dinner two names will be drawn for free dinners at the next event March 31.  For more details, please find the church on Facebook, call 517/655-1466, email at office.umccrossroads@gmail.com, or see the church website, www.umccrossroads.com.

Calvary Church to host Wild Game Dinner with guest speaker Bob Dutko
    All men are invited to a Men’s Wild Game Dinner on Saturday, March 3, from 6:00-8:00 PM, with featured speaker Bob Dutko.    
    Bob is the host of “The Bob Dutko Show,” Michigan’s number one talk Christian radio show. He is passionate about Christian apologetics and takes complicated issues and translates them into everyday language. Bob will also be speaking at the church on Sunday morning March 4 at 11 AM.
     Every ticket holder will be entered into a drawing for guns, hunting supplies and other door prizes.  You must be present to win. A delicious wild game buffet will be featured.  Advance tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for ages 12 and under. The dinner is sponsored by the Men’s Ministry of Calvary Church of Webberville at 500 N Howard Street.  Space is limited and the event is expected to sell out.  For tickets please contact the church office at 521-4700 or visit www.webbervillechurch.org.

Auditions being held for Star Search Talent Show at Hamburg Funfest
    Star Search is a talent show open to all types of talent and people of all ages.  (Singers, magicians, baton twirlers, dancers, etc.)   We have two auditions coming up.  The first is for competitors who are 14 and younger on March 20, 2018.  The second audition is on April 10, 2018 and is for those 15 and older.  Both auditions will be held at The Zukey Lake Tavern in Hamburg on M-36.  Registrants are asked to arrive at 6:30 with the auditions beginning promptly at 7 PM.  
     The Finals will be held on June 16, 2018 during the Hamburg Fun Fest.    Pre-registration and additional information is available on our website at www.hamburgfunfest.com/star-search.  I can also be texted or called at 517-206-9839 or emailed at TheTalentedStar@gmail.com  
     This is a great event for those who like to perform.  We often ask performers to do shows during the Funfest and prior contestants are also featured in a Variety Show that we hold each year.

Ruth E. Garrison

    Ruth E. Garrison, age 91 of Fowlerville, formerly of Detroit, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 6, 2018.  She was born January 7, 1927 in Detroit, the daughter of the late Daniel and Pauline (Pollee) Herbstreit.  
     She is survived by her son, William (Sharon) Garrison of Fowlerville, grandsons, Shane (Amy) Garrison of Fowlerville and Dan Garrison of Lansing; also great-grandchildren, Shayna (Jared) Varcoe of Fowlerville, Austen Garrison of Fowlerville and Dustin Kaski of Washington State.  She formerly worked in the Blue Print Department for Taubman Corporation.
      Memorial services for Ruth will be held at a later date.  Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.macdonaldsfuneralhome.com

VFW to hold special bingo February 14
   The Fowlerville VFW Post 6464 will be holding a special bingo on this Wednesday, February 14. All proceeds will go to Destiney, a local girl who has cancer. Doors will open at 4:00 pm and bingo starts at 6:30 pm. Food and refreshments will be available. We hope to see you there.

Upcoming Programs at the Fowlerville District Library
   All Programs are intended for Fowlerville School District residents only unless otherwise stated.
    Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event.
Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org.
Phone: 517-223-9089

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Pop-Up Library - Monday, February 12th
10am at Rolling Meadows
11am at Livingston Greene
12pm at Glenwood Apartments
We bring the library to you! You can get a library card; check in and out large print or audio books; get help with the Axis 360 app and eBooks; get your library questions answered; and get one-on-one technology help with your tablet or other small device. You can also visit with Lola, our Therapy Dog.

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Midwinter Coloring Event - Thursday, February 15th at 7pm
Adults. Brighten up the night and join your friends at the library to add some color to your life with coloring and conversation at our mid-winter adult coloring event. Light refreshments will be served.*Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 1st and includes a refundable $5 cash deposit.

* * *

Share the Love: Card Making - Wednesday, February 21st at 5:30-6:30pm
Families. Have some card-making fun with your family and friends! We provide the cardstock, stickers, and envelopes, and you provide the designs! We will deliver the cards to seniors throughout the community at our Pop-up Library visits. *Participation is limited. Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 7th

* * *

Winter Reading Program - March 1st-30th
All Ages are invited to celebrate March is Reading Month with the first-ever Winter Reading Program at the library! Simply stop in and get a reading log. Check in once a week for a small prize.*Reading logs can be picked up starting March 1st.

* * *

Beyond the Book: Hillbilly Elegy - Thursday, March 8th at 7pm
Adults. Join us for a Beyond the Book discussion continuing our winter topic: Poverty in America. Books will be given at registration while supplies last. Discussion will begin at 7pm. Light refreshments will be served.*Register in person to attend. Registration begins January 15th.

* * *

Colorful Zebra Painting Workshop - Friday, March 9th at 5-8pm
Teens 6th-12th grades. Brighten up the winter blahs by joining Paint and Pour at the library to step-by-step paint a colorful zebra. Pizza and a beverage will be served.*Registration is required and includes a 2017-2018 signed Program Permission Form. Registration begins February 23rd. Register by March 7th to attend.

Big Brothers Big Sisters to hold ‘Bowl For Kids’ Sake 2018’ in Hartland
    The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Livingston County’s bowl-a-thon is the agency’s major annual fundraiser.  A national fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters’ agencies throughout the country,   Livingston County’s affiliate is hosting their event March 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th at Striking Lanes in Hartland
    Family members, friends, and co-workers form 5 person teams and commit to raising a minimum of $60 each in pledges to participate.  Bowlers are treated to 2 games of bowling, free Pepsi and pizza as a thank you to their fundraising bowlers.
    Bowl For Kids’ Sake is a fun and easy way for people to support the life-changing work of Big Brothers Big Sisters.  With the help of bowling teams, sponsors, businesses who donate door prizes, and volunteers, the agency is able to provide a great event, raising much needed funds.  
    A successful event is required to continue the mentoring programs in Livingston County.  All the funds raised in Livingston County stays in this county.
    If you would like to get involved, call 517-546-1140 and see how you can make a positive difference in a child’s life at Bowl For Kids; Sake 2018.

Acoustic Café to present Matthew Ball at Howell Opera House on Feb. 23
    Matthew Ball, “The Boogie-Woogie Kid”, will be the performer at the Acoustic Café on Friday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m.  Acoustic Café is an annual music series held at the historic Howell Opera House that features outstanding Michigan performers, now celebrating its 10th year!
    This year’s series continues with the return of Matthew Ball, aka the Boogie-Woogie Kid. Called the 'fastest fingers in the Mid-west,' Matthew performs an upbeat program of Boogie-n-Blues, Jazz & Ragtime favorites from the Swing-dancin' era of the 20’s, 30’s,& 40’s, with arrangements of American classics like Ain't Misbehavin’, When the Saints Go Marchin’ In, Over the Rainbow, Basin Street Blues, Bumble Boogie, The Entertainer, Glory of Love, and more!  Matthew also writes and sings songs in the spirit of the Era as well. 
    Remarkably, Ball's start in Jazz only began in 2001! A former attorney, Matthew left the practice after he attended a hometown boogie-woogie festival.  He was so awestruck by the performances he saw that night, he left his career as an attorney to become a blues & boogie-woogie performing artist.  With a lot of time, work, and effort over the next few years Ball would reach a breakthrough in 2005 with a career-launching performance at the exclusive Arches Piano Stage in Cincinnati where he shared the stage with some of the same musicians that first inspired him to play back in 2001.       Today Matthew is known online and on-stage as THE BOOGIE WOOGIE KID with a performance history that spans everything from symphony appearances to Jazz and Blues festivals.
     The Acoustic Café series runs every Friday night from January 5th – March 9th. Doors will open at 7:00 pm and the show will begin at 7:30 pm. Open to the public, the cost is $8.00 at the door, $6.00 for Livingston Arts Council members. Please note that tickets are NOT sold in advance.

Todd Menard

Fowlerville, Michigan

    The son of Joann and Richard Menard, Todd Menard was born September 8, 1976 in Detroit, Michigan and passed away January 28, 2018 in Lansing Michigan at the young age of 41.
    If you knew Todd, you knew how much he loved golf, playing on the Michigan Amateur Tour and playing all over the country. He enjoyed all types of sports. 
     Todd will be treasured in memory by his parents: Joann and Richard Menard, stepchildren: Joseph and Cecilia Highouse, step-grandson: Declan Buckley, brother: Scott (Tabitha) Menard, sister: Karen LaCombe (Menard), nieces and nephews: Martin and Mara Menard, Tyler and Logan Greer, Blake and Peyton Menard, Max LaCombe, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. 
    Preceding Todd in death are his grandparents: Henry and Marion Parent, and Herbert and Eileen Menard.
    The funeral mass took place Friday February 2, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Williamston. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to: Making the Turn Against Parkinson’s, 1861 Rowley Road, Williamston, MI 48895. www.makingtheturngolf.com
    The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Williamston Chapel.

Jennifer Marie Kelley

    Jennifer Marie Kelley died peacefully in her sleep early Saturday, January 20, 2018.  She was born December 17, 1947 in Howell, Michigan, and spent her early life in Lansing, graduating from Everett High School.  She later moved to Fowlerville, where her mother was originally from, with her parents.  Jennifer worked for Quality Dairy Offices in Lansing and Citizens Insurance in Howell.  
    She was preceded in death by her mother, Norma Louise Davis Kelley in 1996 and several aunts, uncles and cousins.  Jennifer is survived by her father, Howard Kelley of Paw Paw, Michigan and two brothers, James of Vanderbilt, Michigan and Michael of Fowlerville; three nephews, four great nephews and two great nieces, who were the loves of her life.  Watching them play sports was the highlight of her days.  She also leaves to mourn her three aunts, two uncles and many cousins.   
    Cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 3, 2018 at St. John's Lutheran Church of Fowlerville at 3:00 p.m.  Arrangements by: Herrmann Funeral Home.  Please leave the family a condolence at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com

Williamston Eagles Club hosting night of dancing & fun on Feb. 24
    Cabin Fever? Williamston Eagles Club invites you to join us February 24th for a night of dancing and fun! Random Finger Band, a local Howell band, will be our entertainment for the evening. Random Finger Band plays a variety of New Age and Classic Rock music. Club opens at 3pm, with dinner special at 5:30. The band plays 8pm to midnight. Jello shots, 50/50 raffles, Card board game! Bring your friends for a night out! For more info call the club at 655-6510. Club is located at 835 High St. Open to the public and no cover charge.

Webberville United Methodist Church to serve Chicken Dinner on Feb. 17 
    The Webberville United Methodist Church is having its monthly chicken dinner on Saturday, Feb. 17, with oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, vegetables and biscuits. The meal will include coffee, lemonade, and dessert. The dinner will be served 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $9 per adult, $4 for children 12 and under; pre-schoolers eat free. Webberville United Methodist Church is located on the corner of Holt Road and M-52.

Webberville Elementary School holding Kindergarten Round-up on March 2
    Webberville Elementary School is holding Kindergarten Round-up on Friday, March 2. Please call the Elementary Office at 521-3071, extension 7935 between 9:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m. to register and get more information!
    Children turning 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 are invited to enroll. We look forward to meeting our newest STARS.

St. John’s Episcopal Church serving Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
    St. John's Episcopal Church will be serving a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 4-7:30pm. Free Will Offering. The church is located at 504 Prospect St. in Howell. Questions call 517-223-8433.

Howell Nature Center offering Preschool Program on Feb. 13
   A special program for nature lovers ages 3-5 in being offered by the Howell Nature Center on Tuesday, Feb. 13. Children will enjoy nature-themed craft activities, stories, songs and playtime, plus a live appearance from a Great Horned Owl. $6/child, 10am or 11:30am. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Limit of 4 children per adult.

‘Pancakes with Purpose’ being held on Feb. 13 at Oak Grove Methodist Church
    ‘Pancakes with Purpose’ is a Pancake Dinner on Tuesday February, 13th 5-7pm. Enjoy pancakes, french toast, scrambled eggs, sausage & applesauce. This is a free will donation. Oak Grove United Methodist Church 6686 Oak Grove Rd. Howell, MI 48855 (517)546-3942 

Upcoming Programs at the Fowlerville District Library
    All Programs are intended for Fowlerville School District residents only unless otherwise stated.
    Registration usually opens 2 weeks prior to the event.
Follow us on Facebook & www.fowlervillelibrary.org.
Phone: 517-223-9089

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Pop-Up Library – During All Lunches
Tuesday, February 6th at the Fowlerville High School
Wednesday, February 7th at the Fowlerville Junior High
At the Pop-up Library, you can get a library card; check in and out FDL books; get help with the Axis 360 app and eBooks; register to attend FDL Teen Programs; get your library questions answered; and talk about books, movies, technology, and games with some cool librarians. And you can tell us your ideas for FDL Teen Programs—We're listening!

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Beyond the Book: Winter’s Bone - Thursday, February 8th at 7pm
Adults. Featuring a book and its film adaptation, and some great discussion! Movie-style refreshments will be served. *Register in person to attend. Registration begins January 18th. Books will be given while supplies last.

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Pop-Up Library - Monday, February 12th
10am at Rolling Meadows
11am at Livingston Greene
12pm at Glenwood Apartments
We bring the library to you! You can get a library card; check in and out large print or audio books; get help with the Axis 360 app and eBooks; get your library questions answered; and get one-on-one technology help with your tablet or other small device. You can also visit with Lola, our Therapy Dog.

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Midwinter Coloring Event - Thursday, February 15th at 7pm
Adults. Brighten up the night and join your friends at the library to add some color to your life with coloring and conversation at our mid-winter adult coloring event. Light refreshments will be served. *Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 1st and includes a refundable $5 cash deposit.

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Share the Love: Card Making - Wednesday, February 21st at 5:30-6:30pm
Families. Have some card-making fun with your family and friends! We provide the cardstock, stickers, and envelopes, and you provide the designs! We will deliver the cards to seniors throughout the community at our Pop-up Library visits. *Participation is limited. Register in person to attend. Registration begins February 7th.

Fowlerville High School 125th Alumni News
   Plans are well underway for the 125th annual Fowlerville High School Alumni gathering and banquet. The event will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018 at Fowlerville High School.  According to president Judy Recker, the alumni will pretty much follow the format of past years. A social hour will begin about 4pm followed by pictures of the “honored classes” and dinner at 6:30. Rooms will be available for the honored classes to meet and socialize. Tickets will be available after May 1st at local businesses to be announced.
   The FHS Alumni Association plans to continue presenting scholarships to graduating seniors who will be recognized at the banquet. Anyone wishing to make a donation may send the donation to Ed Helzerman, 701 Devonshire, Fowlerville, MI 48836. More information will also be available soon. Classes planning to gather are encouraged to contact Cindy Ruttman Krebs, ASAP.
   Recently the FHS Alumni Association lost one of its oldest living grads, Helen Eckhart Reyhl, Class of 1938. “We know of at least one living graduate from the Class of 1937 and a few from the Class of 1938,” commented Recker. “It will be a really special occasion for the Classes of 1938, 1943, 1948, 1958 and 1993,” continued the president. So mark your calendar and make plans to attend the 125th annual FHS alumni gathering this year.

Baker College offers GED info at 
Pathways Adult Education Workshop
Next GED Testing Dates Feb. 7 & 21
    Many adults want to work but are not qualified to fill the jobs that are available because they lack a high school diploma or GED certificate. At Pathways Adult Education we use books and online courses which lead to increased literacy, high school diploma completion, and GED attainment. Combined with the workforce skills we teach, the groundwork is laid to meet the basic skills required by employers. 
     Learn more about the Pathways Adult Education program or to answer your questions about the GED test, please attend a free workshop on Tuesday, March 13, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. It will be held in room 1421 which is on the second floor of the Curwood Building on the main campus of Baker College of Owosso. No reservation is necessary.
    The next GED testing dates are February 7 and 21 at the Baker College of Owosso Welcome Center on south M-52. Testing is available from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. To sign up for a test go to www.GED.com at least 24 hours in advance.
Please call (989) 729-3620 for more information.

8th Annual Splash & Dash Indoor Triathlon to be held Feb. 11 in Howell
   The 8th Annual Splash & Dash Indoor Triathlon will be held Sunday, February 11. Heats begin at 8:30am. This indoor triathlon takes place entirely inside the Howell Area Aquatic Center. 
    Whether you are new to triathlons, or you are a seasoned veteran this event is for you, so come swim, bike and run indoors with us.  Scoring will be determined by the number of laps swam, miles biked and ran during each discipline which are timed for 20 minutes.  Awards will be given to the top 3 finishers in each men’s and women’s age group, and to the overall fastest man and woman.  
Competing age groups will be:  7-8; 9-10; 11-12; 13-14; 15-18; 19-24; 25-29; 30-34;  35-39; 40-44; 45-49; 50-54; 55-59; 60-64; 65-69; 70+.
     Howell Area Aquatic Center is located at 1224 W. Grand River. Cost: $30 for early registration, $35 day of the race.      Contact us:  parksandrec@howellrecreation.org
           517-546-0693 ext. 0
           fax: 517-546-6018