Julia Schellenberg

Fowlerville, Michigan

    Her Legacy… Julia Ann Schellenberg, age 84, passed away November 13, 2025. She was born on February 23, 1941 in Detroit, MI to Walter and Dorothy (Ocamb) Shuster. Julia married Edward White in 1961 in Farmington, MI. After Edward passed away, she married Kenneth Schellenberg in 1983 in Howell, MI. Julia was a hard worker. She enjoyed taking care of the ladies in her adult foster care home. In her spare time, Julia liked reading and planting flowers in her garden. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and friends. Julia will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

    Her Family… Julia leaves behind her children: Julia (James) Benjamin, Elizabeth (Randy) Vorce, Sandra White, Edward White, Mary White, Dawn White; 16 grandchildren; and 22 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Linda, Bonnie, Robert, and Ronald. She is preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Edward and Kenneth; granddaughter, Kayla; and siblings, Walter, Donald, and Roseanne.

    Her Farewell… Julia’s family and friends gathered on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 4-7PM at Borek Jennings Funeral Home in Fowlerville, MI. Her Community Farewell was held on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at (10AM gathering) 11AM funeral at Fowlerville United Brethren Church in Fowlerville, MI. Memorial contributions are suggested to Fowlerville United Brethren Church. Please leave a message of comfort for Julia’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

 Livingston County Veteran Services urges caution when donating due to rise in scams

    Livingston County’s Veteran Services Office is urging community members to use caution when donating spare change or contributing to organizations claiming to support veterans. Reports of fraudulent groups presenting themselves as legitimate 501(c)(3) non-profits offering financial assistance, housing, food, and other benefits to veterans in need are on the increase. The Sheriff’s Office has investigated this matter for roughly a year. They recommend residents do some research on the organization they plan on donating to before opening their wallets.

    Although these groups may appear legitimate on the surface, their phone numbers, QR codes, and websites are often fake or non-functional. As a result, veterans seeking help cannot reach them and donors’ generous contributions end up in the pockets of scammers rather than supporting the intended cause.

    “We want the public to know that these scams are becoming more sophisticated,” Ramon Baca, Director of Veteran Services, explained. “Your desire to help veterans is admirable, but please be sure your donation is going to a verified organization.”

    For peace of mind, residents are encouraged to contact Veteran Services with any questions before donating. The professionals at Livingston County can:

        · Verify the legitimacy of veteran-focused organizations.

        · Provide veterans with direct connection to emergency                          financial relief through county or state funding.

        · Assist with referrals to local government agencies that                        specialize in helping those in need.

        · Connect veterans and families with additional earned benefits            and support programs.

    Your generosity can make a tremendous difference when it reaches the right hands. Taking a moment to verify before donating helps ensure that veterans receive the support they deserve.

 Livingston Democrats hold annual Food & Fund Drive for Gleaners

    Many area families will have a brighter holiday season this year, thanks to the generosity of local Democrats.

    The Livingston County Democratic Party’s annual Food & Fund Drive for Gleaners Community Food Bank collected $6,989 and 509 pounds of food. A portion of the funds were doubled by a Kroger’s match, bringing the total to $8,380.

    The combined donations translate into 25,523 meals.

    “Local Democrats are always generous when asked to help people in need, but this year they really stretched themselves as they realized the impact SNAP and other budget cuts were having on our friends and neighbors,” said Judy Daubenmier, party chair. “We are glad to do our part to help meet the need in a small way this holiday season.”

    Daubenmier said Gleaners is an ideal partner because its buying power makes donations go a long way.

    Besides operating its store in Genoa Township, Gleaners also has mobile food distribution sites and helps support food pantries.

Food Safety Tips for Holiday Gatherings offered

    Entertaining is one of the mainstays of the holiday season, filled with taste-tempting foods and joyous reunions. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) reminds Michiganders to keep food safety in mind as they prepare and serve holiday treats to their families and friends.

    Here are a few simple precautions to help keep your food safe, your guests healthy and your holiday gathering successful:

    Wash Hands Frequently: Handwashing is one of the most important steps to prevent foodborne illness. Research shows that handwashing lowers the rates of certain respiratory and gastrointestinal infections up to 23 and 48 percent, respectively. Hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm, running water before, during and after preparing foods; after using the restroom or blowing your nose; and after returning to the kitchen if you must leave during food preparation.

    Clean and Separate: Start with a clean kitchen by washing all surfaces and utensils and use separate cutting boards for raw meats and other foods.

    Balanced Bites: If you’re planning a buffet at home and are not sure how quickly the food will be eaten, keep buffet serving portions small. Prepare several small platters and dishes ahead of time and replace the serving dishes with the fresh ones throughout the party. Store cold back-up dishes in the refrigerator and keep hot dishes in the oven set at 200°F to 250°F prior to serving. This way, your late arriving guests can safely enjoy the same appetizing arrangements as those arriving early.

    Take Temperatures: Hot foods should be kept at an internal temperature of 140°F or warmer. Use a food thermometer to check. Serve or keep food hot in chafing dishes, slow cookers and warming trays. Be aware that some warmers only hold food at 110°F to 120°F, so check the product label to make sure your warmer has the capability to hold foods at 140°F or warmer to prevent bacteria from growing. Eggs and egg dishes, such as quiches or soufflés, may be refrigerated for serving later but should be thoroughly reheated to 165°F before serving.

    Chill Out: Cold foods should be kept at 40°F or colder. Keep cold foods refrigerated until serving time. If food is going to stay out on the buffet table longer than two hours, place plates of cold food on ice to retain the chill.

    Keep It Fresh: Don’t add new food to an already filled serving dish. Instead, replace nearly empty serving dishes with freshly filled ones. Be aware that during the party, bacteria from people’s hands can contaminate the food. Plus, bacteria can multiply at room temperature.

    Watch the Clock: Remember the two-hour rule: Discard any perishables left out at room temperature for more than two hours, unless you’re keeping them hot or cold.

    Leftovers: If food has not been left at room temperature for more than two hours, leftovers can be safely refrigerated or frozen to be enjoyed later. Store leftover food in small, shallow containers in the refrigerator or in the freezer for later use. Shallow containers help cool leftovers more quickly than storing them in large containers. Leftovers should be consumed within four days. If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze them within that four-day period. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely, though the quality may decrease over time. If you store leftovers in the freezer, they will be of best quality within two to six months. Always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F, using a food thermometer. 

 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, Jan 7 & 21 ● 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 MAX A LITTLE AXOLOTL by Joey Spiotto. 

Mon, Dec 22 ● 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, Jan 16 ● 10-11am

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TEENS

Origami (Teens Age 13+)

Learn or practice origami skills. Instructions are provided for those without prior experience or who need a refresher.

Thurs, Jan 8 ● 3-4pm

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Button Making (Teens Age 13+)

Create your own unique pinback buttons, or build one from an existing design. 

Thurs, Jan 15 ● 3-4pm

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Murder Mystery Puzzle Boxes (Teens Age 14+)

Immerse yourself in the mystery as you try to solve one of these puzzle boxes. Handle clues, profile suspects, and find the killer with your deductive reasoning. 

Thurs, Jan 22 ● 3-4pm

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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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Maker Space Open House (All Ages)

Join us in for a Maker’s Space Open House. Connor will be on hand to help with the 3D Printer and Glowforge. What will you create? 

Tues ● 4-5 pm

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Build your Own Touchscreen Gloves (Teens Ages 13+)

Get ready for winter by upgrading your gloves to make them with your touchscreen. BYOG (Bring your own gloves) 

Tuesdays in Dec 12/23 & 12/30 ● 3-4 pm

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Murder Mystery Puzzle Boxes (Ages 14+)

Immerse yourself in the mystery as you try to solve one of these puzzle boxes. Handle clues, profile suspects, and find the killer with your deductive reasoning. 

Thurs, 1/22 & 2/19 ● 3-4 pm

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Gaming Playground (Teens Age 13+)

School’s out, so come try out our new Nex Playground Console, or just use the Switch like it’s Friday.

 Tues Dec 23 & Dec 30 ● 2-3pm

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Make Your Own Bookmarks (Age 13+)

Make a bookmark of your own design, whether to use for yourself or to donate to others.

Tues, 1/6, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27 ● 3-4 pm

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Investing 101 for Teens (Ages 13+)

You’re a teen; you have a job, and you work hard for your money. Come and learn the basics of investing to make your money work for you. Presented by Steve MacDermaid from Edward Jones.

 Thurs, Jan 29 ● 3-4pm

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ADULTS

Board of Trustees Meeting

The library board will meet. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Jan 15 ● 6 pm

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Find Your People at the Library

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, Jan 21 ● 2-3 pm

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Cardmaking

Enjoy camaraderie and cards at this popular program.

You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required. 

Thurs, Jan 22 ● 6:00 pm & Fri, Jan 23 ● 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. Jan 17 ● 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 FAMINE ORPHANS by Patricia Falvey. 

Thurs, Jan 15 ● 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, Jan 14 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Jan 9 ● 10-2 pm

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Writer’s Group Exploratory Meeting

Are you an established or aspiring author? You are not alone. There are many writers in Fowlerville and the surrounding areas. We would like to help you find each other and support you in your endeavors. We are hosting a fact-finding meeting to see what type of group is most desired by area writers. Drop in, Registration is not required. 

Fri, Jan 16 ● 11 am

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Holistic Wellness

Lyndsey Johnson from Natural Roots and Wellness presents workshops for promoting health and vitality through holistic practice. First up is juicing. 

Mon, Jan 5 ● 5 pm

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The Library Lounge

Bring your own book, or read one of ours, and come to our monthly after-hours silent reading ungroup for adults 18+. Enjoy a “mocktail”, pub snacks and find a comfy chair for uninterrupted, delicious silence for an hour. We will have a book discussion area for those who want to talk about what they are reading, but the rest of the library is for those who want to read in peace. Registration is required. Adults only. 

Tues. Jan 13 ● 7-8:30 pm

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Talking Cars with Automotive Journalist Robin Warner

Robin Warner, from CAR AND DRIVER, talks cars. What’s it like to drive a super car from McClaren or the new minivan from Kia, Chevy Silverado, Corvette, or anything in between? As a 20-year veteran journalist, Robin Warner has reviewed them all and looks forward to answering your questions about the cars of today. He will be here right after attending the North American Auto Show with the latest scoop.

Thurs, Jan 29 ● 6pm

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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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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.

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Library Survey

Please take a few minutes to fill out our on-line survey. Paper copies are also available at the front desk by request.

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Library Closure

The Library will be closed on December 24 and 25 in observance of Christmas. Happy Holidays!

 Amy Sue Dillon

March 15th, 1987 - December 6th, 2025

    Amy Sue Dillon, age 38, passed away peacefully on December 6th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. 

Early Life and Family

    Born on March 15, 1987, in Detroit, Michigan, Amy was the beloved daughter of Michael and Susan (Weed) Dillon. She spent her early years in Commerce Township before moving to Fowlerville, Michigan. Amy began her education in Walled Lake and continued her studies in Howell. Later, she made Port Huron, Michigan her home.

Personality and Passions

    Amy was known for her deeply passionate soul and her contagious sense of humor. She had a fierce love for her two children and cared deeply for animals, especially her cats and her beloved dog, Darla. Amy found peace outdoors and cherished camping trips with family and friends. She was talented in arts and crafts, often creating beautiful items with her hands and sharing her creativity with those around her. She also enjoyed cooking and experimenting with new recipes. Those who knew Amy would agree on one thing: she absolutely loved pickles!

Legacy and Loved Ones

    Amy's strength, love, humor, creativity, and warmth will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She touched many lives and will always be remembered for her kindness and the lasting impact she made.

Surviving Family

    She is survived by her two beautiful children, son Caleb and daughter Lydia, who were the center of her world. Amy is also remembered by her brother-in-law, Bobby Evans; niece, Alyssa; nephews, Dillon, Jayden, and Landon; as well as her Aunt Pam and Uncle Mike, Aunt Sheryle, Aunt Diana, and her many cousins.

In Remembrance

    Amy was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Kristin Evans, and her beloved dog, Darla.

    A celebration of life will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at Borek Jennings Funeral Home located at 1700 W. Highland Road in Howell, Michigan. Gathering of friends and family begins at 12:00pm followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00pm.

    In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Livingston County Humane Society would be much appreciated. Amy Sue Dillon will be forever loved and will remain in our hearts with endless affection.

 Consumers Energy provides assistance to help seniors stay safe & warm

    As Michigan prepares for another cold winter, Consumers Energy is highlighting energy bill assistance and safeguards for seniors. Those include shut-off protection and $4 monthly electric bill credits that are available to most households headed by someone age 65 or older.

    “Consumers Energy is committed to serving all of our customers, including ensuring that our seniors are using all resources that keep them safe and comfortable in their homes,” said Brian Lewis, Consumers Energy’s executive director of customer service and programs. “We hope to spread the word that Consumers Energy can help our friends and neighbors, no matter their needs.” Consumers Energy recently updated its energy assistance webpage to help customers better understand their options to help pay their energy bills. Specifically, the company offers help for people 65 and older:

    Senior citizen bill credits – Seniors can receive a $4 monthly credit on electric bills at their primary residence. The credit cannot be combined with the Low-Income Assistance Credit or Residential Income Assistance. If there's an issue with receiving the credit, please confirm your birthday is correctly submitted by calling 800-477-5050.

    Winter Protection Plan – The plan protects people 65 and older against shut-off and high payments during the wintertime. Enrollment runs from November through March.

    Shut-Off Protection Plan – The 18-month protection from shut-off plan is available to seniors age 65 and older. Enrollment is year-round.

    Consumers Energy offers assistance and connections to resources through an array of programs. Customers can learn more at ConsumersEnergy.com/Assistance. People can also learn about ways to save on their energy bills at ConsumersEnergy.com/Winter. Consumers Energy this year has provided $7 million to help electric and natural gas customers who qualify to receive help with bills.

    Anyone who needs assistance with their energy bills can also call 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations.