weekly pride volume 1 issue 35.pub

April 21, 2009 www.theweeklypride.com 888-318-1766

Ethan Harnett is an Eagle Scout Onondaga resident Ethan Harnett was recently honored at his Eagle Scout Ceremony. Ethan had earned the honor back on September 19th, but chose to wait until his Grandmother Carol Hartnett could attend. The ceremony was held at the Onondaga Community church with over 100 people in attendance. Leon Clarke, Mayor of Mason, Doug Williams, Marine from Mason, Mr.. Ghere from the local VFW post, and Mrs. Coxson were among the speakers. Becoming an Eagle Scout is the culmination of a lifestyle for a young man. It shows to the community that he is hardworking, dedicated, and responsible among other things. Ethan has earned 47 merit badges so far and hopes to earn his 50th. Ethan has his own blacksmith shop called The Howling Coyote and belongs to the Michigan Artist Blacksmith Association. He plans to pursue welding and metal work as a career and will be attending Lansing Community College in the fall as part of their Welding Technology Program. He plans to then transfer to Ferris State to complete his education. In his free time Ethan enjoys working on his 1985 SAAB 900 Turbo with the help of the Great Lakes SAAB Club or participating with his family in Civil War re-enacting as part of the 7th Michigan Vol. Infantry Company B. Congratulation Ethan on your outstanding achievement.

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He has called Stockbridge home since sixth grade, but never has it felt better to be at “home” than it does right now. Lance Corporal Dan Patrick has just been given an Honorable Medical Discharge from the U.S. Marine Corp. Although he has suffered significant injuries from a hand grenade, to his hand, knuckles, pelvis, and forearm he says, “I have no regrets. I joined the Marines because it was important to me to serve my country.” Dan and his wife, Sam celebrated their second wedding anniversary in March of this year. They are making plans to take an intense bicycle ride together in May for wounded veterans. It is called “Road to Recovery” and covers 500 miles in 5 days from Washington D.C. to Virginia Beach. Dan explains, “it’s a great chance to do something you wouldn’t ordinarily do while meeting other vets. The support is nice, too.” Dan has always enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time outdoors. He is involved with First Baptist Church of Stockbridge and has agreed to take on the Producer roll in the Drama Ministry there. He will also be part of the Vacation Bible School staff for the

second time. Dan has been active in the Town Hall Players in the past and is cast in an upcoming production. “I’m glad to be home! My family and friends are wonderful. My church family has always been a great influence on me. They really have taught me the value of being a good friend, a good husband, and the importance of being there for each other,” Dan said. With 20 surgeries already performed on his hand, he knows there will be more in the future. When asked what comes next for him, Dan explains, “I’ve always been a hard worker and now I need to find a good job and continue to heal physically and mentally, as best as I can.” Then, with a moments hesitation, a smile, and a twinkle of the eyes he adds, “and hopefully see the Tigers play soon!” Thank you, Lcpl. Dan Patrick, for all you do, and have done, for all of us!

If you know someone deserving of a Forgotten “Thank You”, please email me at:

[email protected] or call The Weekly Pride toll-free at 888-318-1766.

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd each year and began in the United States in 1970. It was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, who devoted seven years trying to achieve the visibility needed to reach all citizens, including our government, concerning our environmental degradation. Senator Nelson wrote: “For several years, it had been troubling me that the state of our environment was simply a non-issue in the politics of the country. Finally, in November 1962, an idea occurred to me that was, I thought, a virtual cinch to put the environment into the political ‘limelight’ once and for all. The idea was to persuade President Kennedy to give visibility to the issue by going on a national conservation tour.” President Kennedy liked the idea and took a five-day, eleven state conservation tour in September 1963. Although the tour did not succeed in putting the issue onto the national political agenda, it did plant the seed that ultimately flowered into Earth Day. Six years passed, with Senator Nelson speaking on environmental issues anywhere he could across the country. It was on one of those tours out West in the summer of 1969, when he noticed the impact of the anti-Vietnam War demonstrations on college campuses across the nation. Nelson noted: “I was satisfied that if we could tap into the environmental concerns of the general public and infuse the student anti-war energy into the environmental cause, we could generate a demonstration that would force this issue onto the political agenda. It was a big gamble, but worth a try.” He then announced

(Continued on page 3)

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Earth Day’s Beginning by Julie Glair, freelance writer

The Forgotten “Thank You” by Julie Glair, freelance writer

Lance Corporal Dan Patrick

Eagle Scout Ethan Hartnett, Onondaga.

Free Date Night The Millville United Methodist Church will be having a Free Date Night on Saturday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. We will be showing the film "Fireproof." Child care will be available for all ages. We are located at 1932 N. M-52, Stockbridge. We are located 5 miles north of Stockbridge on M-52 or 9 miles south of I-96 on M-52. For more information call 517-851-7853.

Concert at Stockbridge Library Joan’s Garage will be playing at the next Live at the Library event, scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at the Stockbridge Library, CADL. Open mic begins at 1:30pm, and Joan’s Garage will start around 2pm. The band’s repertoire ranges from jazz to blues to the music of Clapton, Dylan, Van Morrison and other popular artists, played on guitars, bass, drums, keyboard and sax. Sitting in with the band for part of the show will be the talented Kelly Schmidt, playing dobro.

BLOOD DRIVE Stockbridge High School Band Room

Tuesday 4/21 between 8:00am—2:00pm


PAGE 2 - THE WEEKLY PRIDE

Church of Christ 4783 S. M-52 Hwy, Stockbridge (517) 851-8141 Sunday Bible Study 10:15 am Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 am Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Bible Study 6:30 pm Ministers Bruce Harris and Larrel Whitaker Christ Episcopal Church 9900 N. Meridian Road, Pleasant Lake Sunday Morning 9:00 Youth Sunday School 9:00 Phone 517-769-2333 Dansville Free Methodist Church 1340 Mason Street, Dansville (517) 623-0365 Pastor Amy Thompson SS 9:30-10:30 am Morning Worship 10:30-11:30 Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Prayer meeting 7:00 pm Dansville United Methodist Church 1317 Mason Street, Dansville (517) 623-6591 (517) 623-6594 Worship & Sunday School 9:15 am Pastor Don Fry Family Tabernacle Church of God 5115 Green Road, Stockbridge (517) 851-8327 Sunday Worship 10:30 am Wednesday Evening 7:00 pm at Howlett School 126 Webb St, Gregory www.familytabernaclecog.net Pastor Jeff Howard First Baptist Church “Leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ” 950 S. Clinton Road, PO Box 64, Stockbridge (517) 851-7075 Sunday Worship 9:15 & 11:00 am Discovery Island Sunday 11:00 am Wednesday 5th Dimension Youth Group 6:00 pm Tuesday & Thursday Exercise Class 9:00am www.1stbcs.org [email protected] Pastor Brian Johnson First Methodist Church of Waterloo Territorial Road, Stockbridge (517) 851-7287

First Presbyterian Church 101 S. Center Street, Stockbridge (517) 851-7015 Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am Church Offices open T-W-F 9:00am-noon Pastor Shannon O’Leary Freedom Community Church “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord, there is free-dom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 Leslie Public Middle School Cafeteria Kimball Road, Leslie, MI Pastor Wes Emmerson 517-676-3222 Sunday Worship – 10am Good Shepherd Mission 5050 E. M-36, Stockbridge (517) 851-9800 Sunday School 10:00 am Morning Service 11:00 am Tuesday Bible Study Parson Billy R. Allen Grand River Community Church "Where Living Water Flows" 2443 Olds Rd, Leslie Pastor Bruce Crockett [email protected] (517)589-5448 Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Gregory Community Church “A Caring Community” 126 Church Street, Gregory (734) 498-2591 Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m. Rev. Heidi DeMott Shanes, Pastor [email protected] Highest Praise Worship Center 5107 S. Clinton Street, Stockbridge (517) 851-7758 Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Family Enrichment Night 7:00-8:00 pm Bishop Jeffrey Lambert Heritage United Brethren Church Meets at Dansville High School (517) 281-8931 Sunday School 9:00 am Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am Sunday Night HS Youth Group 7:00 Tuesday Night MS Youth Group 7:00 Monday Night Elementary Youth Group 3:00 pm www.hubchurch.weebly.com Pastor Cal Hodgson Email: [email protected] Pastor:

Jeruel Baptist Church 11400 Plum Orchard Road, Munith (517) 596-2128 Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 am Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Youth Clubs & Prayer Meeting 6:30 pm Pastor Bob Castle PaPastor:Pastor: Millville United Methodist Church 1932 N. M-52 Hwy, Stockbridge (517) 851 -7853 Pastor Robert Freysinger [email protected] www.millvillechurch.org Sunday Services: Traditional Worship Service 9:30 a.m. Christian Education Classes for all ages 9:30 a.m. Fellowship Time 10:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service 11:00 a.m. Adult Bible Study Class 11:00 a.m. UMYF- Meet in His Crib Sundays from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Connections ( Young Adults) Sunday from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday - 6:30p.m. Munith United Methodist Church 224 N. Main Street, Munith (517) 596-2441 Worship Hour - 9:30 Rev. Larry Rubingh Plainfield United Methodist Church 17845 M-36, Gregory Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Worship 11:15 am Minister Judi Darling S.S. Cornelius & Cyprian Catholic Church 1320 Catholic Church Road, Leslie (517) 589-8492 Weekend Masses: Sunday 8:00 am & 10:30 am Saturday Confessions 4:00-4:30 pm Father Mike Petroski Southwest Church of the Nazarene 14555 Holmes Road PO Box 74, Gregory, MI 48137 Church : (734) 498-2682 Pastor : (734) 395-9157 Sunday Services: Sunday School - 10:00am Morning Worship - 11:00am Evening Service - 6:00pm Wednesday - 7:00pm NETS (Teen Program) Caravan for Grades 1 - 6 Benson’s Buddies - Age 3 - K Pastor Gary A. Slusher [email protected]

St Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church 12501 Reithmiller Rd, Grass Lake (517) 522-4187 Sunday Worship 10:15 am Pastor Scott Schwertfeger www.stjacobgrasslake.org Stockbridge United Methodist Church 219 E. Elizabeth Street, Stockbridge (517) 851-7676 Rev. Larry Rubingh Worship Hour - 11:00 am Trinity Pentecostal Church 4935 Freiermuth Road, Stockbridge (517) 565-3310 Sunday School 10:00 am Sunday Worship 10:45 am Wednesday Youth Group 7:00 pm Thursday Bible Study 10:30 am Pastor Mark Roark Trinity Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 5758 West M-36 Putnam Township 734-878-5977 Pastor William Gatz Sunday School 8:45 am Sunday Worship 10:00 am Pastor: Unadilla Presbyterian Church 20175 Williamsville Road, Gregory (734) 498-2348 Sunday Worship 11:00 am Pastor John Qiu United Baptist Church 2510 Heeney Road, Stockbridge (517) 565-3121

Mondays - Free Play Group - ages 1-4 from 10-11am - Leslie First Baptist Church, 202 E. Bellevue St. Mondays - Free Line Dance Classes - Hankerd Hills Golf Course - 7:00pm Mondays - Support Group for Taking Off Pounds Sensibly. Weigh in from 5:15-5:45pm at the First Baptist Church in Leslie. Meeting from 6:00-6:45pm Contact Coleen, 589-8145. Thursdays - Bingo - Leslie American Legion Post - 422 Woodworth Street - 6:00pm Tuesdays, April 21st-July 7th - Weight Loss Challenge Stockbridge Heritage Elementary Library - 6:00pm Tuesday, April 21st - Michigan CSI Community Seminar by the Michigan Cyber Safety Initiative at Leslie High School - 7:00pm Tuesday - Wednesday, April 21st - April 22nd - Leslie Community Schools Kindergarten Round-Up - 9:30am-12:45pm Wednesday, April 22nd - Leslie City Planning Commission Meeting - Leslie City Hall - 7:00pm

Thursday, April 23rd - Stockbridge Smith Elementary Spring Art & Music Show - 6:00pm Thursday, April 23rd - Woodworth Elementary 2nd Grade Vocal Program - Leslie High School - 6:30pm Thursday, April 23rd - Leslie Middle School Academic Enrichment Group Meeting. All parents welcome - 6:30pm Friday, April 24th - Dansville Middle School PTO Family Fun Night - 3:15pm-10:00pm Saturday, April 25th - Leslie Lions Club White Cane Fundraiser. Lions members will be at the four corners of Main & Bellevue and at Felpausch Food Center distributing their white canes to raise money for the visually impaired. 10:00am-4:00pm Monday, April 27th - Stockbridge Area Arts Council monthly meeting - Heritage Elementary Art Room - 7:00pm

Wednesday, April 29th - Leslie High School Parent Teacher Conferences - 3:30pm-7:30pm Thursday, April 30th - Stockbridge Heritage Elementary Spring Art & Music Show - 6:00pm Friday May 1st - Woodworth Elementary PTO Carnival - Fun and games for the whole family! Woodworth Elementary - 5:30pm Friday May 8th - Leslie High School Blood Drive - High School Gym. Saturday, May 9th - Single Mother Celebration - First Baptist Church of Stockbridge. Details to come….. Monday May 11th - Leslie Board of Education Meeting - Leslie High School Board Room - 7:00pm Tuesday, May 12th - Dansville Elementary PTO Meeting - Dansville Elementary Library - 6:30pm Monday, May 18th - Dansville Board of Education Meeting - Dansville Elementary Library - 7:00pm Thursday, May 21st - Dansville Middle School Spring Concert - Dansville High School Gym

COMMUNITY CALENDER



LIBRARY EVENTS James McBride – 2009 Spring Author Series James McBride will be here to talk about Song Yet Sung at a special Capital Area Reads event. Tickets are free but required; they will be available at all 13 CADL locations starting March 23. After that date, you may also request tickets by calling (517) 367-6348. Please note: There will be no book signing following the presentation; pre-signed books will be available for sale at the event. Monday, April 20 • 7 pm

Lansing Center 333 E. Michigan Ave. • Lansing

DANSVILLE Children Movers & Readers Storytime (Ages 1-3) Tuesdays, April 20 & 27 10:30 am Stories, songs, and crafts Preschool Storytime (Ages 3-5) Thursdays, April 22 & 29 10:30 am Stories and crafts Teens “Page to Screen” Discussion Group Saturday, April 25 2 pm Read the book, watch the movie. Refreshments provided. This month: Someone Like You and That Summer by Sarah Dessen Adults Adult Book Discussion Tuesday, April 21 6:30 pm The Monsters of Templeton by Lauren Groff LESLIE Children Preschool Storytime (Ages 3-5) Tuesdays, April 21 & 28 11 am Stories, songs, and crafts Teens and Tweens Game Night @ the Library Tuesday, April 21 6–7:30 pm Join us for Wii and Board game competition. STOCKBRIDGE Children Preschool Storytime with Crafts (Ages 3-5) Tuesdays, April 21, 28 & May 5 10am Especially for 3-5 year olds, but younger patrons welcome with close adult supervision. Adults Adult Book Discussion Friday, April 24 12 noon This month we’ll discuss The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. Bring your brown-bag lunch and join us. Refreshments served. Seniors’ Outreach Friday, May 1 12 noon Books will be made available for checkout at the seniors’ luncheon in the Town Hall. Concert for All Ages Joan’s Garage will be playing at the next Live at the Library event, scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at the Stockbridge Library, CADL. Open mic begins at 1:30pm, and Joan’s Garage will start around 2pm. The band’s repertoire ranges from jazz to blues to the music of Clapton, Dylan, Van Morrison and other popular artists, played on guitars, bass, drums, keyboard and sax. Sitting in with the band for part of the show will be the talented Kelly Schmidt, playing dobro.

Real Estate Corner With Sandy Goetz, Realtor ®

Housing Recovery? Not This Year, Experts Say One in every nine homes in the United States is sitting vacant, according to the U.S. C e n s u s B u r e a u . Economists predict that getting rid of this glut nationwide will take at least three years. Here’s the math: The number of housing units in the United States increased by 8.65 million from 2002 to 2007. During that period, the number of U.S. households rose by only 6.7 million. Subtract a half-million homes that will be torn down or lost to fire, and that leaves an excess of 1.3 million units, not including vacation homes. The country adds about 1.5 million households every year, but the recession and a slowdown in immigration is reducing that number. Additionally, Gen Xers, most of who are within the age range when people tend to have the most children, are relatively small in number and won’t create an enormous need for larger living space. Factor in the number of new homes being built—about 700,000 this year, according to Arthur C. Nelson, director of the University of Utah’s Metropolitan Research Center— and the bottom line is a multi-year recovery. As Robert Lang, head of the Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech, puts it, "Population is still growing, and sooner or later, you'll want to move out of relatives' basements." Utah’s Nelson analyzed government and private housing data and predicts that hard-hit housing markets in the West and South will start to bounce back later this year and during the first half of 2010. The Northeast and Midwest will have the slowest comeback, possibly extending beyond 2012, he says. Source: USA Today, Hava El Nasser (09/10/2009)/Realtor Magazine If you need more information or have any questions, you can email me at [email protected]

Free Programs at Gee Farms Nursery

Gee Farms Nursery is located at 14928 Bunkerhill Road, Stockbridge, MI. Please call for directions (517) 769-6772 or check our website www.geefarms.com Sat. April 25, 4:00 pm Pruning Landscape Plants Learn basic pruning techniques – how to shape shrubs and trees, when to prune, what tools to use. Sat. May 2, 8 am – 5 pm OPEN HOUSE at Gee Farms Nursery - Come see what’s new for Spring. Lots of unusual conifers, flowering trees and shrubs, vegetable plants, seeds, geraniums, bedding plants and other flowers. Free coffee and donuts are available. Sample some of our delicious jams and dips. Free Pony Rides for kids . Sat. May 9, 1 – 4 pm Kids Garden Craft - Make a Gift for M o t h e r ’ s D a y . Children can create their own decorative flower pot and plant a flower to take home. M a k e s a g r e a t Mother’s Day Gift ! Free craft for kids 1 - 4 pm. Free Pony Rides from 9 am – 5 pm.

that there would be a grassroots demonstration in the spring of 1970, on behalf of the environment and invited everyone to participate. The wire services carried the story from coast to coast and the response was incredible. Letters, telegrams, and phone calls came from all across the country. The American people finally had a forum to express their concerns about what was happening to the land, rivers, lakes, and air – and they did so with great exuberance. Gladwin Hill of The New York Times reported: “Rising concerns about the environmental crisis is sweeping the nation’s campuses with the intensity that may be on its way to eclipsing student discontent over the war in Vietnam…”

It was obvious they were headed for a spectacular success on Earth Day. Senator Nelson observed: “Earth Day worked because of the spontaneous response at the grassroots level. We had neither the time nor resources to organize 20 million demonstrators and the thousands of schools and local communities that participated. That was the remarkable thing about Earth Day. It organized itself.” It was President Clinton, in 1995 that awarded Senator Nelson the “Presidential Medal of Freedom”, the highest honor given to civilians in the United States. Clinton said: “In the 1970’s, when a river was so polluted it actually caught on fire, Gaylord Nelson spoke up. He insisted that Americans deserved the safety that comes from knowing the world we live in will not make us sick. He warned that our leaders should never let partisan politics divert us from responsibility to our shared environment. He inspired us to remember that the stewardship of our natural resources is the stewardship of the American Dream…” Now that we know how it all began, let’s remember that it takes each of us, here at the grassroots level, to make something good happen. Let’s be sure to not loose sight of the importance of the job, and privilege, each of us has, to care for the natural resources we have been given stewardship of. Our world depends on it!

Earth Day (Continued from page 1)

Author of a new book investigating the Bath Disaster comes to CADL

The Capital Area District Library will welcome Arnie Bernstein, author of Bath Massacre: America’s First School Bombing to the Downtown Library, 401 S. Capitol Avenue on Saturday, May 2 at 1 pm. Books will be available for sale and signing. Bernstein will discuss his compelling book investigating the horrific crime that forever changed the small Michigan community of Bath. On May 18, 1927, Andrew Kehoe set off several explosives concealed in the basement of the Bath Consolidated School then killed himself by car bomb taking the life of others helping in the rescue. The same day, Kehoe, brutally murdered his wife and burned down his farm killing their livestock and destroying all the crops. In total, 45 people died, mostly children. Through his research and interviews, Bernstein details Kehoe’s background, what led up to the day of the attack and the aftermath. He tells the story of those affected by the tragedy with tender attention to specifics that put the reader right into the hospital rooms and funeral homes, wreckage cleanup and daily workplaces that surrounded the citizens of Bath after the disaster. April 20 narks the 10th anniversary of the Columbine killings. There is no better time to learn, remember and honor the incredible impact that such acts of violence can have on a community. Continuing recognition of our community history, the Capital Area District Library will additionally host the annual Caterino Collector’s Showcase on the same day, May 2 at the Downtown Library from 10 am-4 pm. Local authors, collectors, and historical and genealogical societies will display materials from their collections. CADL offers a wide range of community programs and special events throughout the year. For more information, visit our Web site: www.cadl.org.



What: Open House

Where: Stockbridge Village’s New Office Corner of Main and Center Streets

When: April 23, 2009 Drop in between 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Light Refreshments provided.

Call: 517-596-2349 ext. 118 to RSVP

Stockbridge Residents Have a New Resource in Healthy Living

Weight Watchers® Brings Its New Program to Stockbridge With the change of seasons, now is an excellent time to focus a change of habits to support a healthy lifestyle. To help people succeed, Weight Watchers is offering a new program. The new Weight Watchers® MomentumTM program provides resources for people to understand and address the practical and emotional issues that can lead to weight gain. With strategies to conquer hunger and the ability to tailor the plan to fit into one’s own life, MomentumTM

provides people with more tools and resources to succeed in adopting a healthier lifestyle. Weight Watchers is opening new locations, including our brand new meeting in Stockbridge Starting April 30, 2009, meetings will be held every Thursday at 6:00 p.m.at Stockbridge First Baptist Church, 950 South Clinton, Stockbridge, MI. Arlene Crampton will be leading meetings at the Stockbridge location. She, like all of our leaders, lost weight following the Weight Watchers program. Her weight loss allows her to truly understand the challenges and celebrations members are experiencing. “Members learn how to make satisfying food choices and listen to hunger signals,” says Crampton. “I really saw the benefits of tracking and journaling first hand during my weight loss.” When Stockbridge area residents come to Weight Watchers they will see that the program is not a diet, it’s a lifestyle change that offers tools, group support, food and activity plans that are livable and effective. At Weight Watchers meetings, people come together with a common goal – to learn how to successfully lose weight. Meetings are an important part of how Weight Watchers helps members reach their goals; in fact, people who attend meetings lose three times more weight than those who try to lose weight on their own.¹ “We are excited to offer Stockbridge area residents this new location and the new MomentumTM program,” explains Amy Seese, Territory Manager, Weight Watchers. “It is our intention to offer people of this and all communities a convenient place to help people reach their weight-loss goals. Our program continues to evolve and energize members to lose weight and keep it off long term.” ¹ Heshka S, et al. Journal of the American Medical Association, 2003: 289(14):1792.

Local Meeting Information Weight Watchers meetings last approximately 35 minutes. We recommend that our members attend one meeting each week to learn about healthy eating, gain motivation and have their confidential weigh-in to track their progress. The public is also welcome to “Be Our Guest” at a participating Weight Watchers meeting with no obligation to join, just to see what it is all about. Program materials are not included.



Chelsea Area Players Youth Theater to Perform Charlotte’s

Web - Artistic Director Jeff Boyer Sarah M. Carder

Freelance writer, mother of two, lover of spiders When my daughter was eight, we went to visit her grandfather on his farm. This was my husbands’ father, and being a city girl, the visit was as new an experience for me as it was for our daughter. The farm consisted of fields of soy beans and a rather large area full of barns and pens that held so many pigs we couldn't count them all. What we could count on was the, well, shall we say, rather unique smell that permeated the nearby countryside and driving just short of a mile away towards the farm, you could smell something in the air. For my daughter and I, it was the smell of a farm full of life. A few chickens, some raccoons trying to find a neglected spot in one of the barns to make a home, and a cat around every corner. As we strolled the farm that early fall afternoon, lo and behold, up in a corner of a lesser used indoor pen, was a spider-web. My daughter exclaimed, “Look! It’s Charlotte!” Most people I know would immediately say, “Eeek! A spider!” and have a slight fear pop up. But for my daughter, the image of the web called to mind the movie she had seen earlier in the year. The movie was, of course, “Charlotte’s Web,” based on the brilliant book by the acclaimed writer E. B White. E. B. White was an American author who wrote for magazines such as The New Yorker before, in his 50’s, he began to write children’s literature. He wrote the favorite "Stuart Little" in 1945 about the adventures of a small mouse, and in 1952 the humble and innocent little pig named Wilbur was created onto page in the family classic "Charlotte’s Web." The story is about friendship, which begins with the runt piglet Wilbur being spared his life by a young girl named Fern who loves her new little friend who always seems to get into interesting situations. One day, Wilbur is sold to Fern’s uncle and their friendship is thinned as she can only visit on occasion. Wilbur, in his loneliness, is suddenly comforted by a mysteriously soothing voice. This is Charlotte, a barn spider. When it nears time for Wilbur to go the route of bacon and sausages Charlotte intervenes with a brilliant plan of making Wilbur famous by extolling such words as “terrific” and “humble” in writing within her web.. These words are all it takes to make Wilbur known far and wide and, in turn, spare his life. Again, Wilbur is given another chance at life. Why? Well, perhaps that is what the reader is to experience through his eyes, and who better than an innocent, wide-eyed and good-hearted youngster named Wilbur. It matters not that he is a barnyard animal. I’ll try not to give away too much regarding the ending, as it is one of the most tear inducing literary collection of words this world-weary traveler has ever encountered. There is, though, something conveyed in the story about the circle of life and how it is an experience to not be saddened by but rather to reflect on the joy that one can bring into their life, and that of others. In this case, the good deeds of Charlotte bear the fruits not only of love and change of heart among those she and Wilbur encounter in the barn, but of new life and the wonder it brings to the unknowing eyes and smiles of innocents like

Wilbur. Chelsea Area Players Youth Theater once again continues a thread of impressive theatrical works. Having recently done a ‘rock opera’ to Beatles songs and tackled Shakespeare most admirably, they now reach into the world of classic children’s literature once more, (they did so in the fall of 2007 with Washington Irving’s classic spooky tale of the Headless Horseman), with Charlotte’s Web. A cast of 35 plus have been working for the past two months on bringing the family tale to life. The show is being produced by CAP veteran Vicky Wurster who has brought on board as the Artistic Director of the play Jeff Boyer, who is the president and founder of the Town Hall Players in Stockbridge, thus, bridging the paths of community theater from their town to that of Chelsea. Good stock indeed. “Charlotte’s Web is an animal fable that deals with several important aspects of life: friendship, heroism, suspense and love. The animal characters have many of the same problems as humans do. However, the animals seem to set their differences aside for the common good,” says Boyer. Aside from directing our young actors of the Chelsea area, he is a science and math teacher at Stockbridge Middle School who also does magic shows on the side. Having never seen one of the plays he’s directed, I am definitely looking forward to seeing some kind of magic appear on the stage. Leading the talented cast are three very distinct and individual, young actors. Morgan Chrisman is enjoying her second play with CAP Youth Theater and when asked what the story was about to her, she replied “Not always

thinking about yourself,” and referred to her character, Fern, as the loving child who initially saves the life of Wilbur and adopts him as a pet. It’s easy for Morgan to play a character who is as down to earth as she is. Next, a n d a f t e r s o m e s i l e n t contemplation….“It doesn’t matter what size you are, you can still help out or save people, and do more than you think you could,” and this is the philosophy behind his character, Wilbur, says Nolan Peterson. A veteran of four CAP productions, Nolan’s character is the strong ship mast in which the audience will hold on and relate to through the rhythm of emotions and situations E.B. White’s tale leads one through. Theater audiences will more than likely experience the story through Wilbur, and Peterson is a wonderful young man with a real honest sense of kindness about him, so that shouldn't be hard. Rounding out the lead cast is a performer I first caught glimpse of as Marta in CAP’s “The Sound Of Music” a couple summers ago. Confidence, talent, grace and poise are unique to find all in one package and especially so in a child performer, but Emma Hess is the epitome of what a real actor is.

Following her first foray with CAP as the young Von Trapp Family singer, Hess stuck with CAP Youth Theater through their following shows, but was never able to be placed in a role where she could shine among her peers. Her waiting has surely paid off as she truly mystifies as the kind and loving spider, Charlotte, and shows a warmth and depth to her performance that older actors could certainly learn from. When asked what the moral of the story was from her character’s perspective, she replies with ease, “The moral is about learning to be patient.” The defense rests. The play will be performed Friday, April 24th at 7pm

and again Saturday, April 25th at 7pm, and a matinee performance on Sunday, April 26th at 2pm. The location is the Washington Street Education Center Auditorium (also known as ‘the old High School’ to some residents), which is at 500 Washington Street. The tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and can be purchased in advance at the Chelsea Pharmacy, online through the CAP website chelseaareaplayers.org, by calling 800-838-3006, or at Chelsea Farmers Supply down by the Depot who are one of the sponsors of the Youth Theater’s play and most fittingly so, having had much experience in dealing with feed and grains, gardening and pet supplies, and, of course, just about anything a farmer with animals would need. This is good, wholesome, family entertainment that shouldn't be missed, rather,...it should be shared. Oh, and I should mention that in the year or so ago since my daughter and I took that stroll around her grandfather’s farm, we went out and purchased not just one, basic paperback copy of E.B. White’s book, but a second, well preserved, hard copy found at a used book s t o r e . M y daughter plans on reading it yet again this year. Just like the s imple circle of the life of a spider, a yearly event of j o y a n d memory is in the making of th i s young girl’s mind.

The Cast the Chelsea Area Players Youth Theater pose in their barn.

Emma Hess will play Charlotte

Wilbur will be portrayed by Nolan Peterson



Varsity Baseball

Stockbridge Boys Sweep Pair Hall Throws No Hitter!

Submitted by Coach McDaniels Great pitching and hot bats propelled the Panther past Lansing Christian in a League opening double header. Ross Hall pitched a no hitter in the first game walking 5 batters and striking out 15. The bats were hot as the Stockbridge Hitters drilled Lansing Christian for 10 runs. Justin Frey 3-3 and 3 RBI's 3 stolen bases, Colby Parks 2-2 , Dustin Noll 3-4 and 3 RBI's, Kyle Kramer 2-2, and Ross Hall 2-4. Alex Kalmbach, Cole Abel, and David Rowse each had a hit. The final score was Panthers 10 Lansing Christian 0 . In the night cap Cole Abel threw a great game giving up only 1 hit and 1 walk and striking out 13. Cole also lead the hitting going 3-3 with 1 RBI and 1 SB, Brian Sears 2-3 1 Dbl 3 RBI's, Colby Parks 2-3 1 Rbi, and Ross Hall 2-3 2 RBI's. Dustin Noll, Justin Frey, Alex Kalmbach, and Kyle Kramer each had a hit in the game. Kyle Kramer also had 4 RBI's.

Stockbridge Senior Ross Hall brings the heat as he strikes out 15 on his way to a no-hitter.

Stockbridge Junior Phil Balkus makes contact.

Varsity Soccer

Lady Panther’s Drop Match Submitted by Coach Nichols

The Women's Varsity Soccer team lost a tough match last night against Lansing Christian 0-1. The Lady Panthers fought tough all the way through with only two substitutes available. The Panthers got a wonderful performance from Freshman Becca Powers who had 11 saves on her first start. Injuries and illness continue to keep starters out of the lineup. Katlyn Risner, Brooke Boyd and Hailey Eilers were sidelined.

Nicole Chapman, Stockbridge, looks to make a play. Brooklyn Baldridge, Stockbridge, works the ball.

Morgan Leighton, Stockbridge, concentrates. Stockbridge JV player Holite Doxtator.

Community Education Soccer

6th Grade Girls Win In Shutout The Stockbridge 6th grade girls' soccer team had a great game for their sping season openner. They played at Wiliamston and had a shutout, winning 5-0. Bella Martin scored the first goal, and that was f o l l o w e d b y a s c o r e f r o m D a n i e l l e Sidebottom. Madyson Davis scored in the second half, with assistance from Sidebottom and Shelby Hastings. Sidebottom then scored again, with assistance from Cathy Shevrovich. The final goal for the Lady Panthers was by Martin, assisted by Christa Maddick. Hastings was the goalie in the first half, with 6 saves against Williamston. Jordan Brockway was the second-half goalie, with just 1 save. The strong Stockbridge team had 18 attempts at goal, and they were the dominating force on the field. Their next game is at home, against Perry on Saturday April 25 at 11:30.

Community Education Soccer

5th/6th Grade Girls Win The 5th/6th grade girls soccer team won their first game of the season against Haslett, 2-1. Charlotte Balkus scored the first goal with the assist from Makayla Gradowski, and Jordon Brockway took the ball down the field and scored the second goal. Emily Rickle and Shaylyn Sprout played defense and helped out the goalies. Alex Eibler and Autumn Aiken also played a great game defending the net. The girls play against Dansville this Saturday at White Oak.

Varsity Baseball

Baseball Invitational Results Submitted by Coach McDaniels

Game 1 Early scoring was to much for the Baseball team to overcome in the first game of the Panther Baseball Inventational. The score being Hanover Horton 12 Stockbridge 4, Cole Abel led the hitting going 2-3, Justin Frey and Colby Parks both going 1-2 in the game. While Dustin Noll, David Rowse, Joey Rizzolo, and Kyle Kramer each had a hit in the game. Game 2 Stockbridge 3 Allen Park Cabrini 10, One big inning does in the Panther baseball team in game 2 while playing a good game they were unable to hold down Cabrini in a time shortened game, a 2 hour time limit had elapsed on the panthers, Hitters for Stockbridge were Kyle Kramer 2-2 one Dbl, Dustin Noll 2-3, Phil Balkus 1-2, David Rowse 1-2,and Colby Parks 1-3 and 2 RBI's Game 3 Stockbridge 7 Reading 2. In game 3 the Panthers bats came alive getting 12 hits in the game. Leading the Panther was Colby Parks going 3-4 with 1 RBI, David Rowse 1-2, Cole Abel 2-4 2 RBI's, Jake Frey 2-3 a DBL and 1 RBI, Kyle Kramer 1-2, Dustin Noll 1-3,Justin Frey 1-3 and Ross Hall 1-4. Our team showed a lot of heart coming back after two losses early in the day and winning the last game of the day for us. I was very proud of our team for not giving up and throwing in the towel on a very long day of Baseball. We used 8 pitchers on the day and everyone gave their all. This is a team that the whole school can be very proud of because they will be a team to look out for in the near future. Record: 4-6 2-0

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www.theweeklypride.com

Correction Alex Kalmbach, Sr Right Fielder was mistakenly left out of the Stockbridge Varsity Baseball preview. Alex has worked hard all season to maintain his starting position with the baseball program. He is a caring individual and an intregal part of the baseball team.



Girls Middle School Track

Stockbridge MS Track Submitted by Coach Thorburn

The Stockbridge Middle School Panthers are on the prowl again. If you missed the last attack make sure you mark your calendars for our next home meet on Wednes-day, April 22nd at 4:30 p.m. The girls ran hard and cheered each other on during the last track meet against Parma Western and Webber-ville. Parma Western won the meet and Stockbridge came in second place overall. The team came together and ran competitively against a tough Parma Western team. In the 3200 Meter Run, Micah Ward came in 3rd place with a time of 15:51. Mercedes Medina placed first in the 55 Meter Hur-dles and anchored the winning 400 Meter Relay team with Jenny Spink, Marissa Ledesma, and Kayla Gallup. Linsday Poll ran a tough 100 Meter Dash and placed 2nd with a time of 14.18 and also took first in the Long Jump. Mary Casto won the 70 Meter Dash with a time of 10.76 beating the Parma Western girl by inches. The 1600 Meter Relay took first place with Roni Benedict, Lindsay Poll, Melody Theut, and Courtney Hafele. Jenny Spink won the Shot Put event beating her competition by almost 2 feet. The track team needs to continue to improve in the relays and field events this year to be successful. During practice the girls run hard and work together as a team. Come support the girls track team and watch their next meet against Leslie and Albion.

Stockbridge 7th Grader Lauren Allen finishes strong.

Middle School Track

LMS Track “Off to the Races” Staff Report

The Leslie Middle School 7th and 8th grade track teams got off to a very good start Wednesday in their first track meet of the season. The Boys finished 1st, 50 points ahead of Lansing Christian and Morrice. The Girls finished 3rd but only 11 points out of 1st. For the Boys the 800 relay, 1600 relay, and 3200 relay teams all finished 1st! In addition, Matt Subject (3200), Mike Dolbee (800), Mac Glassford (400), Chase Leonard (200), Jacob Still (200 hurdles), Cody Davis (100), Chanler Carmer (70), and Nate Swab (shot put) all finished 1st! Mike Dolbee took 1st place in the high jump and the 800 meter race! On the Girls side the 1600 relay and the 3200 relay teams both finished 1st! These teams consisted of Sam Olney, Tori Kinney, Nickole Wixson, and Sarah Subject for both wins! 2nd place finishes went to Sarah Subject (3200), Steffanie Hampton (1600),Tori Kinney (800), Kali Fagerholm (200 hurdles), and Skyleigh Rathbun in the high jump! “It was a very good meet for us,” Coach Jim Hanson said. “You always are surprised in middle school with the first meet of the season. There are always some runners who surprise you with their “racing” ability because their “practice” ability is still a work in progress.” The next meet for the Blackhawks is Wednesday, April 22nd at Stockbridge. “It’s always fun to run against the Panthers,” Hanson stated. “They always have some very good athletes.”

Stockbridge’s Megan Okorowski delivers the pitch. Varsity Softball

Stockbridge Splits Games Staff Reporter

The Stockbridge Varsity Softball team split last week with the Gladiators of Fowlerville, winning the first game 11-5 before falling in the nightcap 12-4. The Lady Panthers had to come from behind to win the first one as they trailed 5-4 going into the bottom of the fifth. Annie Bell had a two out, bases loaded double that scored three and gave the Panthers the lead for good. Stockbridge went on to add four more runs in the sixth. Megan Okorowski picked up the victory as she struck out 10 and only walked one. Raven Summers led the offense with three hits and a pair of RBI's. Chrystal Maschke and Bell each had a pair of hits. While Cassie Lance and Jade Gibson each drove in two runs. The nightcap saw the Panthers commit six errors which led to six unearned runs as they feel 12-4. Okorowski was on the mound again as she had seven strikeouts and four walks. Amanda Rowe led the offense with a pair of hits, including a double. Coach Hejnal is excited about how his team is play-ing, "We really took some big steps forward tonight, especially in the first game, if we can continue to im-prove defensively, we will be very competitive." The team finished third in their tournament on Satur-day. The day got off to a slow start as the Lady Panthers lost to Hanover-Horton 5-0 in the first game. Cassie Lance picked up the only hit for the Panthers. Megan Okorowski pitched well as she struck out 6 and walked 2. The next game saw a thriller as Stockbridge won it in the bottom of the 8th. Stephanie Meier scored the win-ning run on a wild pitch with two outs. Annie Bell led the offense as she went four for four with a pair of doubles. Emily Lewis had a pair of hits including a two run scoring single in the fifth inning. Raven Summers also had a pair of hits. Okorowski was again on the mound as she struck out seven and didn't allow a walk. In the top of the eighth she had to strike out two as the Carson City Crystal Ea-gles loaded the bases with only one out. In the final game of the day the Panthers played Reading. Stockbridge was again victorious as they won 6-2. Bell again paced the offense with a double and tri-ple and had a pair of RBI's. Okorowski picked up the victory as she struck out 14 and didn't allow a walk.

Kellie Rizzolo takes a ball in JV action last week.

Girls High School Track

Ladies Run Well at Corunna Submitted by Coach Trapp

The Stockbridge Ladies track team ran at the Corunna Relays this past Friday. They competed against other teams from Division I, Division II, and Division III schools. Overall the ladies finished 7th of 10 teams. Zoey Hohmann, Christina Watson, Whitney Williams, and Sami Knepley each brought home four medals earning one in all four of their events. Nicole Chapman, Alicia Gaynor, Marissa Klimkiewicz, Emily TenEyck, Jasmine Holloway, Genna Hoard, Alecia Klann, Storm Boyer and Jill Engel were all part of relay teams that earned medals. The strongest performances of the night came from the 4 x 200 meter and 4 x 400 meter relay teams. The 4 x 200 meter relay team consisting of Sami Knepley, Christina Watson, Whitney Williams, and Zoey Hohmann earned a 2nd place medal with a time of 1 minute and 50.6 seconds (1:50.6) This time is a state qualifying time. The 4 x 400 meter relay team consisting of Jasmine Holloway, Christina Watson, Whitney Williams and Zoey Hohmann finished in 1st place way ahead of the rest of the teams. They ran their best time of the season with 4 minutes and 19 seconds (4:18.99) which is only one second away from the state qualifying time. The Ladies track team will start their conference schedule this Tuesday in Albion at the SMAA Conference Jamboree # 1.

Varsity Soccer

Panther Invitational Results Submitted by Coach Nichols

The Stockbridge Women’s Soccer team advanced to the Stockbridge Spring Homecoming Tournament Championship game by beating Lansing Sexton 8-0, and beating Clare in a shootout. Jacqueline Fillmore and Danielle Hart each had 2 goals, Nichole Chapman, Emily Galdes, Sarah Kalmbach and Erin Richards each added a goal in the game against Sexton. Becca Powers recorded her first shutout of the season. Becca also stopped three shots in the shootout to help Stockbridge advance to the finals. Brooklyn Baldridge and Brooke Boyd scored the two goals necessary in the shootout to seal the victory. Stockbridge then lost to Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard in the championship game.

A Dansville hurler in action last week.



MASON’S 26th ANNUAL SPRING FLING

FEATURES COURTHOUSE SHOW

The 26th annual “Spring Fling” will take place in Mason the weekend of April 30 through May 3 this year, with the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce’s signature Courthouse Show being held on Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Special events will be taking place all around the Mason area during the Thursday through Sunday celebration.

You can go to the www.masonchamber.org website and click on “Mason Area Community Events Calendar” and scroll down for the latest information and contact numbers. Some events are weather dependent and a couple of the activities have an admission charge. More events will be added and details may change slightly as plans of community groups firm up.

Mason’s Spring Fling starts off with three Chamber of Commerce events on Thursday, April 30. “Good Morning Mason!” a news and networking breakfast meeting, will take place at the Ingham County Fairgrounds Community Building, 700 E. Ash Street in Mason, beginning at 7:15 a.m. There is a $5.00 admission charge for members and a $7.00 charge for non-members, which includes a continental breakfast. Immediately after that program, the Chamber will hold a “Chamber 101” member orientation open to all starting at 8:30 a.m. in the same location.

Thursday’s events continue with a “TGI Thursday”

informal karaoke mixer at the City Limits Sports Grill, 801 N. Cedar Street near the U.S. 127 freeway. The event has no admission charge, cash bar and food, with open seating. Entry forms for the second annual “Mason Area Idol” event on August 27 will be available that evening.

There will be a MACC ambassador’s ribbon cutting and open house on Friday, May 1 at 4:00 p.m. for the new location of Central Solutions, Inc. at 119 E. Maple Street in downtown Mason. The 21st annual Mason State Bank 5K Run/Walk starts at 7:00 p.m., also on Friday on Maple Street, just north of the downtown’s Ingham County Courthouse. This is a popular mid-Michigan race that attracts people from many surrounding localities. The net proceeds benefit the Mason Public Schools Foundation.

The signature event of Mason’s Spring Fling begins the morning of Saturday, May 2, with the 26th annual Courthouse Show downtown. The show, presented this year by sponsor Central Solutions, is held outdoors -- rain or shine. Michelle Davis of the Shopping Guide, chair of the Mason Area Chamber of Commerce’s Spring Fling & Down Home Days committee, says that “our estimates are that between 4,000 and 6,000 people attend this show each year.” She also notes that “the show features a mix of arts and crafts, food vendors, community groups, and other booths.” The Courthouse Show runs from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday only.

In the midst of the show, magicians will be performing street magic near the flagpole on the west side of the Courthouse, sponsored by LAFCU. A “Kid’s Korral” children’s activity area with a bounce house, ride, and kiddie train will be in the same location near the Courthouse steps. Admission is charged for the train, ride and bounce house. On Maple Street, in front of the

Hilliard Building on the north side of the Courthouse, the Ruhala Performing Arts Center will have a free show at 11:00 a.m., sponsored by Ware’s Pharmacy.

Many more things happen on Saturday at other locations in Mason. The Mason Area Historical Society will have their pie sale at Mason Area Historical Museum, 200 E. Oak Street in Mason, starting 10:00 a.m. The CBI program at Mason High School, 1001 S. Barnes Street, will host a craft show at the school from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mason’s First Presbyterian Church, 131 E. Maple Street, will have tours and displays in celebration of their 150th anniversary from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Friends of the Mason Library will hold their semi-annual book sale at the Mason Library, 145 W. Ash Street from 10:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. Right across from the library, Masons Firefighters will have a fundraising benefit cut-a-thon at Ara Bella Salon at 138 W. Ash Street from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Rotary Club of Mason will have their annual duck race on Sycamore Creek near Lee Austin Park on Ash Street, just west of the City Hall, at 12:00 noon. The Masonic Lodge at 840 E. Columbia Street will have free tours and lunch. Select Mason area businesses will have their sidewalk sales on Saturday. Many homeowners will participate in a citywide rummage sale throughout Mason neighborhoods during the Spring Fling weekend.

Mason’s Spring Fling concludes on Sunday, May 3 with a pancake breakfast at the Masonic Center at 840 E. Columbia Street from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Adult cost is $6.00, children are less. Mason’s Spring Fling organizers also extend an invitation to attend Sunday services at any of the many churches in the Mason area.



Major American Cancer Society Study Looks to

Lansing Area for Participants

Local Residents Can Have Direct Impact on Cancer Research

The American Cancer Society is looking to Lansing area residents to play a direct role in improving the lives of future generations by participating in an historic study. The Society will be signing up volunteers for its Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) at the Grand Ledge Relay For Life on May 15, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Beagle Middle School. The study, which will enroll a diverse population of half a million people across the United States, will help researchers better understand the lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer, and will further efforts to eliminate cancer as a major health concern for future generations. Grand Ledge will be one of over 200 enrollment sites currently scheduled for 2009, nearly double the number of sites that took part in 2008. “The American Cancer Society has always stressed cancer education because knowledge is the key for any fight against this dreaded disease,” said Donna Hay, American Cancer Society CPS-3 volunteer. “That is why

the Cancer Prevention Study-3 is so important. I believe that the research that is done today can help lead us to a cancer free tomorrow.” Participants must be between the ages of 30 and 65, must never have been diagnosed with cancer, and must be willing to make a long-term commitment to the study, which simply means filling out follow-up surveys at their home periodically. To enroll in the study, individuals will be asked to complete a brief written survey, provide a waist measurement, and give a small blood sample at the Relay enrollment site, in addition to completing a baseline survey at their home. For the first time in more than 50 years of conducting these kinds of studies, the Society is making it possible for participants to complete their baseline and follow-up questionnaires online. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Americans to participate in lifesaving cancer research,” said Alpa V. Patel, Ph.D., American Cancer Society strategic director of CPS- 3, who is overseeing the study. “While we have been conducting these types of studies for decades, our world-class research department can only study new and emerging cancer risks if members of the community are willing to become involved.” Researchers will use the data from CPS-3 to build on evidence from a series of American Cancer Society studies that began in the 1950s and involved hundreds of thousands of volunteer participants. The Hammond-Horn Study and previous Cancer Prevention Studies (CPS-I, and CPS-II) have played a major role in

understanding cancer prevention and risk, and have contributed significantly to the scientific literature and to the development of public health guidelines and recommendations. Those studies confirmed the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer, showed that obesity increases the risk of several cancers, and linked aspirin use to a lower death rate from colon cancer. The current study, CPS-II, began in 1982 and is still ongoing. But changes in lifestyle and in the understanding of cancer in the more than two decades since its launch make it important to begin a new cohort. The Grand Ledge Relay For Life on May 15 at Beagle Middle School will be the only time CPS-3 will be enrolling in the Lansing area this year. While initial enrollment takes just 20 to 30 minutes, the study is expected to produce benefits for decades to come. “While science can do a lot to explain the biology and genetics of cancer, some of the most valuable information we have is a direct result of the contributions of dedicated individuals over several generations,” said Dr. Patel. “We are once again looking to the dedication, compassion, and generosity of Americans to come through and help us provide answers that we know will save lives and improve the outlook for future generations.” For more information or to learn how to become involved with CPS-3, visit www.cancer.org/cps3, email cps3@cancer org, or call toll-free 1-888-604-5888.

Wildfire Prevention

Stressed as Fire Activity Picks Up

in Michigan Wildfire season has been building recently as the snow melts and weather improves. Recent warm days and a dry April, which has lacked widespread spring showers, are keeping firefighters busy responding to numerous blazes, according to the Department of Natural Resources. "Many people do not realize that more than 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans, and most of those occur during April and May," said DNR Wildfire Prevention Specialist Paul Kollmeyer. "Careless burning is the leading cause of wildfires in Michigan." Firefighting agencies have designated April 19-25 as Wildfire Prevention Week in Michigan due to the importance of preventing wildfires during the critical spring fire season. Late April typically has some of the highest fire danger of the year which was illustrated in 2008 when a 1,400 acre blaze occurred April 24 during Wildfire Prevention Week. This fire jumped I-75 and burned into the City of Grayling destroying several structures. It is extremely important that people exercise caution when burning any yard or household debris. Kollmeyer stressed these tips:

• Always obtain a burn permit before lighting any rakings or brush piles. Northern Michigan residents can easily obtaining a permit by going to www.michigan.gov/burnpermit, or calling 866-922-2876 to get the latest fire danger and permit information. Southern Michigan burning information can be obtained from your local fire official or government office. When burn permits are not being issued, it's due to outdoor burning being prohibited by law or high fire danger makes it unsafe to burn, which has been the case in many locations already this year.

• Always have garden tools available to scrape away combustible vegetation and never leave a fire unattended even for a minute. Be sure all fires are completely out before you do leave. Keep a good water supply on hand and use plenty to douse any remaining embers; covering a fire with soil can insulate the heat allowing coals to smolder for days.

• A person who negligently allows a fire to escape or is burning illegally can receive a fine and be charged for the cost of putting out the escaped fire. However, wildfires cost everyone through resource and property damage. By preventing fires we all can benefit from the savings.

For more information on wildfire prevention, go online at www.michigan.gov/dnr-fire. The DNR is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural

resources for current and future generations.

Great Lakes, Great Times, Great Outdoors

The Mason Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors provided a ribbon cutting on April 14, 2009 for the Columbia Street Mall at 352 W. Columbia Street in Mason. Pictured assisting Arwyn Carr Jr. are Chris Iott, Judy Milett, Joe Dean, Arwyn Carr Sr., Kathy Smith, Elaine Ferris, Maria Earp, Bonnie Root, Pat Weiler, Michelle Carpenter, Loretta Farnsworth, Karla Spoor, Jeff Youse, and Tom Botsford. MACC Courtesy Photo.

To the Editor, I am very disappointed in the Leslie Public School Board of Education. These are people elected by the Leslie voters and they don't seem to care what the public wants. The board seems to have had their mind's made up from the very beginning and they certainly aren't listening to us, the taxpayers who elected them. Shame on them. I've been to several board meetings lately and we seem to be talking into the wind. We do understand that there is a large deficit. In the last few years we have grown to more administration than is needed, paid outside negotiator for several years (that should have been a job for the superintendent), and who knows what else instead of thinking ahead for possible tough times. Now, for the board, privatization continues to be the big ticket item. Privatization would mean that there would be strangers in our schools, on our grounds, and driving our buses. Picking up children in the morning and dropping them off, alone with them in the buildings before and after school and looking after them. Would you want a stranger looking after your children? At minimum wage, which is probably what they would make, there would be a large turnover. Theft in the school would increase as they would have access to the schools and all the rooms therein. It should not even be considered. Oh yes, another proposal to save money is to eliminate a few of our administrators. This sounds good but in actuality, little money would be saved. The "positions" eliminated would place them back into the classroom where they would get about the same pay. So tell me, how would this save us very much money? How did we get so many administrators in the first place? I would like the know the difference in administrative positions compared to the

number of students comparison in the last 10 years. I, for one, am tired of the run around we get at board meetings. I am tired of not having questions answered by the board. I am tired of not having our opinion count. The budget has to be approved in June so speak up people. Call your board members. Find out what is going on in your school before it is too late and there are strangers in our schools and we have lost the very valuable extra eyes that take care of our kids because strangers won't be vested in our school system. Those of you considering sending your students elsewhere should check into the time frame in which your school of choice form is due. It is likely that it will be due prior to the budget for Leslie Public Schools being finalized.

Joyce Kunkel Grandmother and taxpayer

I believe in letting voices be heard, but must caution that there is always another side to the story. I understand that times are tough, but we should be working toward the same goal - the education of our children. As negative as the world is today, it is unfortunate that we are wallowing in our own muck and self-righteousness. I have read all the letters written and published in the Leslie Weekly Guardian with interest as well as the “Paid Advertisement” from an outside lobby. It almost sounds like a he said—she said soap opera. Everyone has to give up something for the sake of the whole, and until each party realizes that there will continue to be no solution. It is also important to understand that not one individual among us has the solution. It will only be through the collective efforts of the whole; the parents, teachers, administrators, school board, and even the students, before this situation is resolved. Please stop, take a step back, and a deep breath before deciding what role you have in the situation, because as Eldridge Cleaver once said, “If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.”

Jeremy Killinger, Editor



SUDOKU PUZZLES OF THE WEEK If you have never completed one of these you might be asking what the rules are. They are quite simple. Each column needs to contain the numbers 1 - 9, each row needs to contain the numbers 1 - 9, and each 3 x 3 set of squares needs to contain the numbers 1 - 9.

2 5 7 8

9 7 3 8

1 3

4 1

4 9 3 6 1

2 5

4 2

2 8 5 6

9 6 2 4

7 8 9

2 8 6

4 7 6

6 3 8

4 6

7 9 5

4 1 8

9 7 5

5 3 6

3 9 8 1 2 4 6 5 7 5 2 7 3 9 6 4 8 1 4 6 1 7 5 8 9 3 2 6 5 2 8 4 9 7 1 3 1 3 9 6 7 2 8 4 5 7 8 4 5 1 3 2 6 9 9 1 5 4 8 7 3 2 6 2 4 3 9 6 5 1 7 8 8 7 6 2 3 1 5 9 4

2 9 4 7 8 5 6 1 3 3 8 7 1 6 4 9 5 2 6 1 5 9 2 3 4 7 8 4 5 1 8 3 2 7 6 9 7 2 6 5 4 9 3 8 1 9 3 8 6 1 7 2 4 5 1 6 9 2 7 8 5 3 4 5 7 3 4 9 1 8 2 6 8 4 2 3 5 6 1 9 7

Corinda Hackworth [email protected]

I like to think that by now we know one another. I can share funny stories with you and you can relate and laugh. Or at least laugh. But as well as we know one another, I still feel my ‘Inner Nerd’ is lurking about, waiting to scare you away. Well, maybe it already has. But I think it’s important to admit to a few more idiosyncrasies. And be grateful I stopped at 10, because the list can go on and on.

1. I dance to my iPod. Admittedly, I do. And I don’t just do a little hop-skip now and again. I’m talking arms-up-lip-biting-eyebrows-narrowed-eyes-closed dancing. I know, I KNOW, I’ve been caught strutting down Main Street because some ridiculous song has me in a trance. I’m powerless to a good tune. Usually, I’m pretty good about watching for cars or oncoming pedestrians. But there have been a few times when I’ve really been into my song and have just finished a fancy move and upon congratulating myself at said move, have been humiliated by the onslaught of, “What are you doing?” looks.

2. I hate white socks. I’m not sure if this makes me a dork, but I’ve been told it does make me high maintenance. It’s extremely difficult buying socks, because I have to buy colored and

patterned socks (Argyles are my favorite). But because of being “difficult” and having a deep loathing for white socks, I guess this makes me a dork. And I notice when people have white socks on (which most people do on a regular basis).

3. I listen to The Carpenters. I have this two CD set of their greatest hits. I’ve been caught with it before and I’ve denied that it was mine. But it is. There is nothing like listening to Karen Carpenter’s “Superstar” when I’m feeling down. Or “Rainy Days and Mondays”. Now that is a good one.

4. I still find bodily noises (or anything that resembles bodily noises) hysterical. I can feel you out there rolling your eyes, saying, “Come on! How old are you?” But I can’t help this one either. For example, one time in church this baby, uh, made a noise like babies do. And I began laughing so hard I had to get up and leave the Sanctuary. Not only did I begin to cackle before the poor baby had finished, but ended up making so much noise getting myself in control and leaving, that I managed to receive dirty looks from the people two pews ahead of me. Two pews! And the worst part was, it was my baby. I am not making this up.

5. When I’m alone, I sing the “Priceline Negotiator” jingle. And it’s not like I sing it once, quietly. I belt this baby out as loud as I can. I’m talking rattle-the-windows loud.

6. I air play all instruments and sing with facial expressions. Now this one is kind of like the dancing one, only more embarrassing. Because it’s bad getting caught dancing, but when I get caught distinctly pointing to fans at my concert

asking, “Do you, YOU! Feel like we do?” Well, that’s just humiliation at its finest. Or getting caught plugging the bass to “Detroit Rock City”. Or playing the drums to “My first, my last, my everything”. I’ll just stop there. I won’t even get into R. Kelley’s “Ignition (Remix)”.

7. I have a “Food” voice. Let me explain before someone out there says, “Oh, honey. That’s called schizophrenia!” I like to eat. A lot. And so being a lover of food and drink, or connoisseur if you will, I get very excited about food. Thus bringing on my food voice. It’s a really, deep, throaty voice that I use when I see good food. It usually begins with an, “Ohhhhh”. You’re right, it is really weird. But my family does it now, too.

8. I love the movie “Urban Cowboy”. Oh, friends, I am so ashamed of this one. It is a horrible movie, but every time it’s on, I’ll stop and watch it. And it is loaded with quotes that I can use in everyday life, which is a plus for me. And I love to imitate Bud and Sissy’s “Texas twang”. Ah thank ah can dew et perty gewd, tew.

9. I sing the song “Cecilia” by Simon and Garfunkle, “Corinda”. I know, I know. Pretty big stretch here. But with such an unusual name, I have to embrace opportunity when I can get it. And it works, too! “Corinda, you’re breaking my heart. You’re shaking my confidence daily. Oh, Corinda, I’m down on my knees, I’m begging you please to come home, come on home.”

10. I humiliate myself on a weekly basis to secure friends. That just kinda explained itself, didn’t it?

Land Conservation Celebration a Success On Thursday, March 19th, 2009, the Washtenaw Land Trust officially became the Legacy Land Conservancy, at an event celebrating land conservation and local foods. The “Legacy of Trust” gala raised $19,000 for protecting local nature and farmland. The full-course dinner and program, held at Cobblestone Farm in Ann Arbor, featured guest speaker Rand Wentworth, the President of the national group Land Trust Alliance. The Legacy Land Conservancy extends its thanks to the many individuals and organizations who made this event possible.

The Conservancy also extends its thanks to: The many people who attended the event, or made a gift in honor of it. CD Photo Group’s Greg Czarnecki and Sue Dempsey, for taking truly

lovely photos of the event. These photos can be seen in our Community Gallery of photos on our website,

www.legacylandconservancy.org. The event committee: Janet Crone, Suzanne DeVine, Margaret Engle,

Sherry Hall, Susan Roth, and Charity Steere.

Last weeks solutions at right.



The following commentary was written by State Representative Barb Byrum (D-Onondaga). If you have any questions,

please call her office at (517) 373-0587. Pets are part of the family. My husband, Brad, and I adopted Storm a few years ago. Storm is a five year old retired racing greyhound. We also have a former barn cat, Grey, who now rules the house. Nearly two-thirds of American families with school-age children have at least one pet at home. Pets are important parts of our families. They also are an important source of comfort and stability to victims of abuse, particularly children. Abusive family members, however, may threaten abuse, injure or even kill pets as a way of controlling others in the family. A survey of the largest shelters for battered women in the United States found that 85 percent of the women and 63 percent of the children entering the shelters discussed incidents of pet abuse in the family. Children who have witnessed domestic violence or have been a victim of violence may also become animal abusers – imitating the violence they have seen or experienced. My goal is to increase awareness and end the cycle of violence. Abuse of any sort, be it against a husband, wife, child or animal, is unacceptable. There is a direct correlation between domestic violence and animal cruelty. It is crucial that people are made aware of the connection. Our community, those that

work in domestic violence centers, law enforcement and education must know about this connection so that we can develop strategies for responding to these incidents. Abusers often start their abuse on pets. Spouses and children are often the next ones to be harmed. Cruel acts toward animals have long been recognized as indicators of dangerous behavior patterns that often claim more than animal victims. By holding people accountable for animal cruelty, we may be able to prevent our children from becoming abuse victims. The first step toward change is awareness. You have to make people aware of the problem. If you are aware of any animal cruelty activity, contact the Ingham County

Animal Control at (517) 676-8370, or visit their Web site at www.ingham.org/AC. If you suspect a child or any person is being abused, contact your local police department immediately. The First Strike campaign was created in 1997 to raise public and professional awareness about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence and to help communities identify the origins of the violence, predict its patterns and prevent it. The campaign works with local animal protection agencies around the U.S. to learn about the violence connection. First Strike also provides investigative support and information on the animal-human cruelty connection to law enforcement prosecutors. Schools, child care providers, hospitals and individuals who ignore animal violence, or view it as minor, are ignoring a serious epidemic that must be brought to light. Violence is a cycle. Those who harm or abuse their animals rarely stop there. Often times that abuse finds its way to the spouse or the children. Abuse to any living thing is wrong and must not be tolerated. As members of our community, we must do everything in our power to end animal cruelty and domestic violence. Let's work together and keep our community violence-free.

Capitol Notes

Barb Byrum State

Private Piano and Voice Lessons for more info call

Carol Hatch 517-392-1533

THE CLASSIFIEDS Email - [email protected] or call - 888-318-1766 to place an ad. Rates

are $5 for the first 25 words and $0.10 per word thereafter. Add $1 to get your ad stylized with bold letters and fancy boxes!

FOR RENT In the Village of Stockbridge - Cozy 1 Bed Apt. / Full Bath / Kit. W/Appliances & new carpet. Upstairs in private home. Available July. Non-Smoking, No Pets, $475.00/mth. + Security Dep. CALL RAY 517-896-6666

GARAGE SALE/FLEA MARKET Spring Flea Market - Collectables, Garage Sale, and Crafts. Saturday, April 25, 9 - 3. Mackinder-Glenn Post 510, American Legion Hall. Tables Available 3 for $15, Call Terry 734-498-3622.

FOR SALE Transmission repair start at $495. Check out low prices on transaxles and overdrives. 30 years experience. Free towing. Phone Pierce Auto 517-623-6277 Buying disabled cars and trucks. 1998 and newer. Will pay up to $1000. Free Towing. Phone Pierce Auto 517-623-6277

SERVICES C & C Repair - Farm Tractors, Lawn Mowers, Snowblowers, 4 wheelers, motorcycles, campers, motor homes, chainsaws, and all small engines. We repair all makes and models. Pick-up & delivery available. Call 517-596-3400 or 262-2821. Evening and weekend hours available. KS Lawn Care - Free Estimates, mowing, trimming, edging, spring/fall clean-up. Call 517-795-0186 for more information. ALLERGY SEASON IS HERE! - Experts forecast 2009 to be a record bad year for allergy sufferers. Our high-tech electronic air purifiers have brought relief to thousands. Also reduce smoke, pet odors, bacteria, mold, static electricity, gases and chemical fumes. Easy to own and pennies per day to operate. Find out for yourself. Try one FREE for three days. Breathing is believing. Call Nelva at 517-518-1123.

NOTICES Community Victory Garden - Southwest Church of the Nazarene in Gregory, Michigan is offering anyone who will work it, a plot for a vegetable garden this year. We will train and help as needed, and will hold workshops on how to preserve the produce that is grown. This is a free service of the church. Contact the church office at 734-498-2682 to confirm your interest in this offer. Planting will commence soon. A Ggroup of Stockbridge residents are starting a community garden this spring. All who are interested in planting and maintaining a plot, or just wish information should contact Karen Smith at [email protected] or (734) 786-3752 by April 24. Calling all farmers, gardeners and crafters: Plans are underway for the Dansville Farmers Market. If you are interested in being a part of this great community event, plan to attend an information meeting on April 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Dansville Christian Youth Center. The market will be held throughout the summer at the corner of M-36 and Dakin Street. Call information contact Laura Moser at (517) 652-4524. The Millville United Methodist Church will be having a Free Date Night on Saturday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. We will be showing the film "Fireproof." Child care will be available for all ages. We are located at 1932 N. M-52, Stockbridge. We are located 5 miles north of Stockbridge on M-52 or 9 miles south of I-96 on M-52. For more information call 517-851-7853.

Do you have a birth or wedding announcement you would like to list? Contact advertising@theweeklypride or call 888-318-1788 for rates. We offer custom design service, full color options, and much more!

Let that special someone know that you care!

ASTHMA/ALLERGY

Needed 10-20 Allergy & Asthma Sufferers

To participate in an in-home study of

New state-of-the-art technology

Must be willing to complete a 5-day trial and survey

Please call (517-552-6260)

www.countrycomputercare.com - In Home PC Repair and Website Design Jody King (517) 414-1892 - Email: [email protected]

CarpetMasters of Webberville running Spring Specials... Carpet and upholstery cleaning. Specials running on new carpet and installation, experienced installers with references in your area. Call: 517-521-4828 to schedule a free estimate.


LESLIE Tuesday - 4/21 HS Track - SMAA Meet @ Albion - 3:30pm Boys Var Baseball @ Webberville - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball @ Webberville - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball vs. Webberville - 4:00pm Girls Var Tennis @ Albion - 4:00pm Wednesday - 4/22 Boys Golf SMAA Jamboree @ Columbia Central - 3:30pm Boys Var Baseball vs. Springport - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball vs. Springport - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball @ Springport - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball @ Springport - 4:00pm MS Track - SMAA Meet @ Stockbridge - 4:00 Thursday - 4/23 MS Track @ Webberville Invitational - 3:00pm Girls Var Tennis @ Hillsdale - 4:30pm Friday - 4/24 Boys Golf @ Jackson Area Invitational - 9:30am HS Track @ Western Invitational - 3:30pm Girls Var Softball vs. Grass Lake - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball @ Grass Lake - 4:00pm Saturday - 4/25 Girls Var Tennis @ Eaton Rapids Invitational - 8:30am Boys Var Baseball @ Webberville Spartan Tournament - 8:00pm Monday - 4/27 Boys Golf @ Quincy Invitational - 8:00am Girls JV Softball @ Maple Valley - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball @ Maple Valley - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball vs. Maple Valley - 4:00pm Boys Var Baseball vs. Maple Valley - 4:00pm Girls Var Tennis vs. Northwest - 4:30pm Girls JV Soccer @ Mason - 5:30pm Tuesday - 4/28 Boys Golf @ Jackson Christian - 3:00pm Boys Var Baseball vs. Hillsdale - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball vs. Hillsdale - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball @ Hillsdale - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball @ Hillsdale - 4:00pm


STOCKBRIDGE Tuesday - 4/21 HS Track - SMAA Jamboree @ Albion - 3:30 Girls Var Softball @ Western - 4:00pm Boys Var Baseball @ Western - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball vs. Western - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball vs. Western - 6:00pm Wednesday - 4/22 Boys Golf - SMAA Jamboree @ Columbia Central - 3:30pm Girls JV Softball vs. Whitmore Lake - 4:00pm Girls JV Soccer @ Western - 4:00pm MS Track - SMAA Meet @ Stockbridge - 4:30pm Girls Var Soccer @ Western - 5:30pm Thursday - 4/23 Girls JV Soccer vs. Jonesville - 4:00pm Boys Var Baseball @ Greenhills - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball @ Greenhills - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball @ Hanover Horton - 4:00pm Girls Var Soccer vs. Jonesville - 5:30pm Friday - 4/24 Boys Golf @ Jackson Area Invitational - 9:30am HS Track @ Corunna Relays - 3:30 Saturday - 4/25 No Events Monday - 4/27 Boys Golf @ Quincy Invitational - 8:30am MS Track @ Perry Relays - 4:30pm Tuesday - 4/28 Boys Var Baseball @ Albion - 4:00pm Boys JV Baseball vs. Albion - 4:00pm Girls Var Softball @ Albion - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball vs. Albion - 6:00pm

DANSVILLE Tuesday - 4/21 Girls Var Soccer @ Springport - 5:30pm Wednesday - 4/22 HS Track vs. Portland St. Pats/Fulton - 4:30pm Thursday - 4/23 Girls Var Softball vs. Fulton - 4:00pm Boys Var Baseball vs. Fulton - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball @ Fulton - 4:30pm Boys JV Baseball @ Fulton - 4:30pm Girls Var Soccer vs. Jackson Christian - 5:30pm Friday - 4/24 Girls Var Softball @ Mason Invitational - TBA Saturday - 4/25 HS Track @ Vandercook Lake Relays - 10:00am Girls Var Soccer @ Kalamazoo Christian Tournament - 11:30am Monday - 4/27 Girls Var Softball @ Bath - 4:00pm Boys Var Baseball @ Bath - 4:00pm Girls JV Softball vs. Bath - 4:30pm Boys JV Baseball vs. Bath - 4:30pm Girls JV Soccer vs. Lansing Christian - 4:00pm Girls Var Soccer vs. Lansing Christian - 5:30pm Tuesday - 4/28 No Events

Sporting Events This Week - April 21, 2009 - April 28, 2009

(517) 596-3400

10525 Hannewald Rd, Munith , MI We service all makes and models of tractors,

lawnmowers, welding, RV’s, skid steers, rototillers & small engines.

Pick-Up & Delivery Available. *** CALL NOW FOR OUR ***

***SPRING SPECIALS!***

EMAIL YOUR RESULTS TO [email protected] Don’t see your game results or highlights?

Ask your coach if they submitted them!

Bull Whip One of Mid-Michigan’s top Country/Western bands

will perform live at The BackStreet May 2nd 9pm-1am

Did you know we offer catering? With graduation open house season upon us,

why not let us cater your next event? Give us a call for details.

Kitchen Hours Mon - Thurs - 7am - 9pm

Fri - Sat - 7am - 10pm Sunday 7am - 8pm

Medina’s Mexican Cuisine Monday 11-5

Wednesday 11-7 Friday 11-5

114 N. Center Street, Stockbridge 517-851-7785

Garage Sale Season is Here! Advertise with us! Your Garage Sale Classified is only $5.00/week for up to 50 words!

Call 888-318-1766 or email [email protected].

We would love to highlight all of our area sports teams. This includes Varsity, Sub-Varsity, Middle School, and Communtity Education Teams.

Please email [email protected] with

your stories and pictures.

weekly pride volume 1 issue 35.pub

Documents

congratulation ethan

free time ethan

church family

stockbridge home

onondaga community church

eagle scout ceremony

lance corporal dan patrick

baptist church of stockbridge