bridal issue

Room For The Groom Tips, Tricks & Tuxes especially for the Groom

Senior PromGrace Haven seniors get formal with a Snow Ball

PLUS: Community Spotlight with CC Sheriff candidate Ryan Cressman, Lisa Soros at Mackinaw, PLUS: all of your favorite columnists, Gallery Talk and so much more!

FREE

See local. Do local. Be local.www.stjohnslocale.com

BRIDAL 2012

Bridal Issue

2012

BRIDALLocale_2012.pdf 1 3/2/12 6:05 PM

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Grace Havenassisted living


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Whimsical Occasions Wedding Show • March 25, 2012 Weber's Inn in Ann Arbor, MI. 1pm – 4pm. see website for information.

Wedding Inspirations For The Bride & Groom • March 25, 2012 Horizons Conference Center, 6200 State Street, Saginaw, MI 48603. info 989-799-4122

Brides-To-Be Show • April 1, 2012 Petruzzello's: 6950 Rochester Rd, Troy, MI 48085 (north of Detroit).

12-4pm. features a Fashion Show and Door Prizes. Visit website or call 586-228-2700.

Precious Memories Bridal Show • April 7, 2012 Doubletree Hotel-Dearborn. 5801 Southfield Expressway, Detroit, MI 48228. Info: 734-308-2613.

Elegant Wedding Bridal Show Lansing • April 15, 2012East Lansing Marriott: Lansing, MI. 12p-5p.

Brides-To-Be Show • April 22, 2012 Imperial House's: 701 Groesbeck Hwy, Clinton Township, MI 48035 (north of Detroit).

Visit website or call 586-228-2700.

Elegant Wedding Spring Grand Finale • May 6, 2012 Ukrainian Cultural Center. 26601 Ryan Rd, Warren, MI (just north of Detroit).

Charitable event. See website for more Info.

Brides-To-Be Show • August 19, 2012 Sheraton Novi: 21111 Haggerty Rd, Novi, MI (north of 8 Mile, west of Detroit).

12-4pm. features a Fashion Show and Door Prizes. visit website or call 586-228-2700.

GR Brides Fall Bridal Show• September 14-15, 2012 Devos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.

Kohler Expos, Inc., Grand Rapids Bridal Shows of West Michigan. Visit website for show information.

Brides-To-Be Show • September 30, 2012 Summit on The Park, Canton: 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton, MI (west of Detroit).

12-4pm. features a Fashion Show and Door Prizes. visit website or call 586-228-2700.

2012LOCALE WEDDING SHOW CALENDAR


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Say yes to the Groom

In this issue:

6Room For TheGroomThis one is for the boys. Get him

involved, save some money and tie the knot!

10Beautiful Winter DiscoveriesLisa Soros takes us to the bridge during winter for some captivating sights.

28Habitat ForHumanityClinton County Habitat builds its seventh

house.

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20Senior PromGrace haven holds its first-ever Snow Ball event. Friends, family and staff gather for the

dance of life.

I don’t normally watch the now infamous

bridal shows on TV, but one idle Sunday

afternoon, a marathon of Say Yes To The

Dress had me completely mesmerized. All

those people and all those dresses were

enough to make anyone spin like a top. I

remember trying on my own wedding gown

with a parade of folks to help; and help they

did. I’ll never forget the tears welling up in

the eyes of my Grandma Oakwood when I

walked out of the dressing room. That’s

when I knew I had found the one. Fast

forward to marriage number two. Shopping

for the dress wasn’t near as involved. I

went on my lunch hour alone, about 2

weeks from the date and asked to buy

the dress off the rack. Thankfully, it was

no problem, and Mr. Lett was just as

complimentary as any entourage could

be.

Maybe I am just getting older, but it

seems to me, more and more, the emotions

run high, and there always seems to be one

person that wants to make things difficult for

the bride. Sometimes thats the frustration of

the groom himself. But, the happy ending is

never more than a 30 minutes away. On TV.

This has become a very stressful time for

brides. It’s expensive, and the expectations

are high. The good news is, while weddings

have become more complicated, it seems

the groom is playing a much larger role in

the event planning. I think this may leave

some grooms feeling like they need a brown

paper bag and a glass of uh... beer.

This annual issue of Locale is dedicated

to the groom - and the bride who needs a

giggle. We found great tips, to-do lists and

even a step-by-step guide on how to tie the

knot - the bow tie knot, that is. Sprinkled with

a bit of humor, we think you’ll find it festive

and fun.

For the bride, we have a calendar of

Bridal Shows and some great ideas if you

decide you want a “destination” wedding

right here in the state of Michigan with our

top 5 picks for out-of ”locale”venues.

We hope you enjoy this special annual

issue of Locale. Here’s to you, the happy

Bride and Groom! Cheers!


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COVERSHOT

Published by Locale Media CompanyBridal 2012

Photography by EMILY IRISH-KENDALLWedding Day Excitement

Our advertisers make this publication possible. We graciously thank them for their continued support. We know our dedicated readers choose Locale as

their community support resource. Please tell our advertisers you saw their ad in Locale Magazine so we may continue to bring you the best, beautiful and heart-warming stories of our favorite hometown.

Contributors:Sue Carroll Ron Huard

Mike MeuhlenbeckLisa SorosMonica Stump-Thayer

Ye Olde BrideLaurie Oakwood-Bishop

Marketing Manager Cammi Robinson

Graphic ArtistMegan Priess

Office Assistant Christina Hammond

Photography Jim Oakwood Brian Bishop

Guest PhotographersEmily Irish-KendallLisa Soros

Distribution Sam Thelen

St. Johns Locale Magazine is published by Locale Media Company, LLC © 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction, whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. Contact our office at 517.614.4189 or email us at [email protected].


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This year, Locale felt is was time to give the

groom his propers. After all, with the growing number of self-aware men and their desire to be involved, or rather, their brides desire to MAKE them involved, we decided to do a little shake down on the low down for the groom, about the groom, and to the groom. So whether you are the groom, or simply reading this to the groom, we’ve pulled together some simple tips to keep things straight-forward for you and smart for your bride. From economizing to tying the bow-tie, we’ve got your knot.

We all want the perfect wedding, but that doesn’t mean we can’t pinch a penny or two and still pull off an elegant wedding.! No matter if you are paying for your wedding or your parents, you want to make sure they get the best deals possible when it comes to your wedding.! While the average cost of a wedding is around $15,000, this doesn’t mean your wedding has to be this expensive.!By using some affordable wedding planning and consulting, you can save money on your wedding without looking cheap!

How can I pinch some pennies without her pitching many fits? Have you considered donating blood as a second income? Maybe even an organ or two? Hold on. All is not lost. There are some ways to cut corners without having to cut out a kidney. But like any surgical procedure, proceed with caution. It’s one thing to not do anything for your wedding. But it’s just another to not do anything and attempt to cheapen the affair.

Plan ahead. While this can go against everything a man stands for, save money by booking things early. Besides avoiding rush charges, you can also avoid any bidding wars over the must have chef/photographer/florist/pick your vendor.

Embrace technology. It’s the Internet Age, so go online to find vendors. You’ll be surprised to find what is getting outsourced these days. Besides getting favors drop shipped direct from just about anywhere, you should take advantage of the tools right under your nose, like laser printers, digital cameras, and e-mail. Websites like Ecards.com and Hallmark.com can get those pre-wedding party or save the date notes out in a flash. Use that digital to get the dollars back into your pocket.

Go all-in. Inclusive, that is. Many venues offer package deals that include services you would normally have to secure elsewhere, like catering. They might also provide day-of wedding planner support to make sure all goes well on your big day.

Start early. Whether it’s earlier in the day, earlier in the week, or earlier in the season, you might save a bundle by avoiding the sought-after Saturday night time slot.

RoomForThe Groom


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Cuff Links FromStunningselection.com

Mix and match. While expensive foods, premium-shelf alcohol, and freaky-fancy pastries might impress your guests, you don’t have to pay top dollar for everything. Pick a few lower-cost appetizers, consider a buffet, serve only wine and beer, limit alcohol to custom cocktails, like, martinis or flavored vodkas and soda.

Call time-outs. Limit the photographer and/or videographer’s schedule. Just make sure the shots you want occur during the actual filming time. Although can anyone really know when a conga line will form?

Pool resources. If people you know are getting married around your wedding day, try sharing some costs, recycling decorations, and obtaining volume discounts. Even if you don’t know anyone, see if the reception venue can assist in reusing some supplies.

Do it yourself. Break out the warehouse club card and bring your own alcohol. Apply summer-camp arts-and-crafts skills and make your own party favors. Go to work early and use your company’s printer. (Did we just say that? Don’t tell the boss). And forget it just being DIY. Recruit, draft, and beg your friends for assistance. Okay, her friends.

Stand firm. Try to negotiate discounts or extra services with your vendors. Also, make sure you review each contract’s fine print to avoid additional charges. And, wherever possible, don’t tell places it’s for a wedding. That little fact might avoid any ”we got you by your shorts” pricing.

Go off the beaten path. You might be able to lower your expenses dramatically by picking an out-of-the-way place for your reception. It might even be worth checking out just the surrounding towns. Be sure to strike the right balance between saving money and costing your guests more to get to the wedding. And if you find a real bargain site, keep telling her it’s rustic, not run-down.

Adopt a less-is-more attitude. When possible, pick the simpler decorations, choose less labor-intensive foods and flowers, minimize the band, and reduce the guest list. Besides saving you money, it’ll probably save you time and anxiety in the long run.

Elope. The granddaddy of cost cutting. And if you play your cards right, you might still get some presents. Especially if you throw a casual post-elopement party for your friends and family.


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So the dress is the biggest gig for her - but what about the groom? Of course, the tux. Did you think a black tie is as stuffy as it gets? Think

again. White ties (along with a black tailcoat) define a formal evening wedding. But now the semiformal tuxedo, with its black dinner jacket and tie, is the more popular choice. If you are a stickler for formality and having a day wedding,

wear a morning suit. This consists of a gray or black cutaway coat, gray vest, striped trousers, and a four-in-hand tie or ascot. Not that traditional? Wear a black or gray short jacket, called a stroller, instead of the cutaway.

And if you don’t want the bride to be the only one in white, push for a summer or hot-climate wedding so you can don a white

jacket. Just be easy on the lace. And don’t pull up the sleeves like Crockett and Tubbs. If things get ugly with

your fiancée, just toss this zinger out there:What’s black and white and red all over?A bloody groom if his tux

doesn’t fit. If she laughs, then you know she’s the one. If she doesn’t, you’re on your own.

THE Groom’s To Do List:Brides have more to-do lists than most corporate assistants. So why should the groom be left out? Here’s a quick hit list to get him started.

Name namesPrepare your side of the guest list.Go for the gold

Choose the wedding bands, which can match or just have matching engravings. Some couples have their initials engraved with their wedding date inside the ring. Avoid etching “RIP.”Keep it real

Call the marriage license bureau to determine the necessary requirements and timing. Arrange for the blood test, if necessary. Schedule the marriage license appointment.Get from Point A to B

Book transportation to and from the ceremony and after the reception.Speak eloquentlyGive a toast at the rehearsal dinner in response to the best man’s toast. Mention how lucky you

are to marry your bride and thank your parents, in-laws, and guests.Provide shelterBook a hotel room for your wedding night, unless you are leaving directly to the honeymoon.

Plan getawayHoneymoon getaway, that is. While you’re probably going to pick a place with your bride, you are still responsible for most of the legwork.

- Tips adapted from Groomgroove.com

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ROOM FOR THE GROOM: SUIT UP & PARTY GENTLEMEN, GRAB YOUR TUX AND START YOUR LIST.

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9

Fast, easy & convenient!

USBORNE Children Books Available!

Southgate Plaza

800 S. US 27, Suite 8

St. Johns, MI 48879

Hours:

Mon-Fri: 8:30 - 6

Sat: 9 - 1

Wrap the tie around your neck so that one end is slightly longer and

pointed toward

1Cross the long end over the

short one.

2

3Bring under & lift long end through the

center of the neck.

4Fold short end over itself so its perpendicular to your body

& pointed

5Finish loop with

long end, dropping it over folded short end

so that it’s parallel to your

body.

6Make the same type of angle loop with long end, and push

through existing short loop.

7Tighten knot by adjusting ends of both

loops.

8Return tie to the store & rent a pre-

tied tie with a hook for easy

on & off action.

Does the thought of tying the

perfect bow-tie make you lay on

an extra layer of cologne? Never

fear. Locale is here to help you with

the knot - in your tie.

Tear out this page and duck tape to

his side of the mirror for a handy-

dandy hands on step-by-step helper

guide for tying the perfect knot.

Tying The

Knotperfect


10

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As of press time, winter was taking its sweet time finding Michigan.

But that was not the case

last year, when my family and I ventured north for a quiet night

in Mackinaw City. If you’ve

been to that area in the summer

and fall, you know how

crowded and bustling it can be.

Such is not the case, however, in

the dark and cold months of

winter. Have you seen the

movie “The Shining?” That

would be Mackinaw City in December.

A virtual ghost town,

Mackinaw City is asleep for 5 months. You will find unplowed

parking lots, hotel signs covered

or taken down completely, and

nearly every store is closed.

Some even remove their

merchandise altogether. The

ferries are either wrapped and

up on blocks or tucked away in

storage barns.

Even a local favorite, Darrow’s Family

Restaurant, was shuttered, bearing the

sign “Closed for the season. See you in

the spring.” And the Welcome Center under the bridge was completely

snowed in, preventing even those with

four wheel drive from entering. The

beach we usually stood on was full of

snow, some of it heaved into massive carvings along the shore. We wandered

carefully onto the ice and stood under

the bridge, listening to the traffic overhead. No geese ran from us. No

seagulls danced at our feet. No children

waded into the water.

Dinner that night was at the Dixie

Saloon which is open year round. We

took our regular spot on the second

floor, where we could look upon the

BEAUTIFUL WINTER DISCOVERIESFROM LISA SOROS


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2 eerily empty parking lot of Shepler’s Ferry. Only a handful of locals sat

scattered about the restaurant. At the

only open hotel in town, my kids ran

noisily down the halls. I didn’t even

bother to shush them for who was there

to bother? That night I lay next to the

sliding door facing the beach but there

were no waves to be heard, and no

ferry horns announcing departures to

Mackinac Island.

We left early the next morning, and I

watched the Mackinac Bridge

disappear from view. Six months later my daughter and I would return to find the

transformation that occurs each

summer. All was right with the world again.

If you have never had the

opportunity to visit this area in the winter, it is worth the drive. Don’t expect to do

any shopping. Watch for snowmobiles

rather than cars and pedestrians. Bundle

up and bring your camera. Mackinaw

can be just as magical in the winter as in

the summer, and you won’t have to

share the area with anyone but locals.

A ghost town it may be, but a

beautiful one to discover. - See more photos by Lisa Soros at stjohnslocale.com


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John E. Wieber, P.C.201 E. State St.

ST. JOHNS 989.224.9449

Wednesday Evening Appts Available

A second marriage grants to each spouse, legal rights in

being disinherited at death.

Planning is very important: Learn what your rights are and what to do to protect

your spouse and your children.

Second Marriage

Plan. Protect. Provide.

Our Top 5 Michigan Destination Wedding Ideas

Grand Hotel,Mackinac Island.America's Summer Place. Grand wedding locale. Unforgettable location for up to 450 guests. Ceremonies held on the world's longest porch or in the Grand Hotel Tea Garden. Other details offered: A full-service spa, salon, flower shop, five formal private dining rooms, three casual off-site restaurants, cakes, and live music.

Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island.Mission Point Resort offers 18 acres of beautifully landscaped lawns over looking Lake Huron, 242 guest rooms, full spa and salon on site and the widest selection of breathtaking venues with seating for 10 to 500 guests.

Frederik Meijer Gardens,Grand RapidsAlways beautiful. Always new.The exquisite natural surroundings, exotic plants and spectacular sculptures at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park combine form and function for a fabulous setting year round. From relaxed and casual to elegant and formal, Meijer Gardens is perfect for that once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Castle Farms,PetoskyElegant castle weddings.Romantic courtyard chapels, magnificent formal gardens, soaring towers and stone archways all combine to create a unique and elegant castle wedding. From intimate wedding receptions to large parties, this premier wedding destination is surprisingly affordable.

Eve at the B.O.B.Grand RapidsA posh, cosmopolitan lounge at The B.O.B., Eve is sleek and intimate. The genuinely classy lounge boasts hip, contemporary atmosphere and service with it's white walls, modern furniture and a 360 degree bar. This room can accommodate up to 180 guests for a private party.

For more information on these great venues in Michigan, visit our website at stjohnslocale.com!


14

Cressman says Clinton County is his home.

His family has been here for generations, he

went to school here, and he and his wife

Sarah are raising their!children here.!

Cressman says he has a vested interested

in!this community and it's residents, his

friends!and family, and the future.! Ryan is

passionate about!the community.! In

addition to serving his family,!he says it's

important to serve in three!areas of his

life:!his place of employment, community,

and church.!

Cressman Says, “I think you'll find me easy to

talk to and willing to put service above

myself.! I'm a good listener and!will help you

solve problems by encouraging people

to!be part of the solution.!You should also

know that I'll always try to incorporate humor

and to share a laugh or two.!Life is way too

short to be too serious all the time.“

Working Administration.! Modern leaders

can't!sit at a desk.! I would be a "working"

administrator.!!He says he’ll be actively

administering the agency and

frequently!working shoulder to shoulder with

the men and women on the street.! After all,

they're the ones who hear and see what is

going on within our neighborhoods.!

We'll seek to stop crime before it happens.!

We will deploy our resources to be Proactive.!!!

We will be a lot more visible!in our own

neighborhoods and school areas.! All of our

townships will begin to see more patrols.! Our

support functions like the detective bureau,

records management, and!volunteer

operations!will become more efficient as

well.! As stated before, traditional policing

will not!serve us in the future.! A more

modern, proactive, and energetic

leadership style is what's needed.! Meth labs

and home invasions!need to be stopped

before they start.!!!

!!!!!!!

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12 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:Native St. Johns man, Ryan Cressman, sets sights on Clinton County Sheriff Post.

"I believe that my entire life has been spent preparing for this opportunity.! It is

all about SERVICE:!service to the citizens

of the community and to the people

who work for the department.!I am

making myself available for this service

and would commit my life to making

Clinton County a better place to live,

work, and raise a family."!Cressman is

shown above, left, with Dave Hunt at his

recent induction into the Kiwanis 707 club of St. Johns.

Photo provided as a courtesy and not intended for endorsement purposes.


15

Please Vote

AUGUST 7Ryan Cressman

Education over Enforcement.! Traffic

enforcement is important, but it is not the

only job of law enforcement.! Education

takes priority over Enforcement and

revenue generation.! No longer can entire

shifts be spent "working traffic", especially

when our!homes!and families are more

and more vulnerable to crime due to the

current poor economic situation.!

Expanded!Communication.! Social media

and new!communication technologies

will be used more effectively and

promoted to the community.! Did you

know that we currently!have a Reverse

911 system that more people should

register with, but simply don't know

about?! We'll use Facebook, Twitter, email,

and other!electronic media outlets to

communicate with the community about

crimes in progress, missing children, and

other law enforcement related

alerts.!!We'll flatten out the

communication process both within the

agency and with the public.! It will be a

lot easier to communicate directly!with

me!and the other members of the

department, and it will be a much more

open department as far as sharing of

information and implementing new ideas.!

The men and women on patrol and

working in the!jail cells are the ones with

the ideas as they are the ones!that see

the problems and solutions to make things

better.!

Team Building.! We'll begin to work more

closely with the other police agencies in

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16

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Corinne: Owner Shelly: Stylist

Lydia: Stylist/ManicuristKim: Stylist/Nail Tech

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12 GALLERY TALKCLINTON SOUNTY ARTS GALLERY HOSTS BOOKS SIGNING

A Wisconsin author

with Michigan ties the

distribution of her

current effort by holding

a book signing at

Clinton County Arts

Council Gallery.

Janet Halfmann, who

grew up on

a mid-

Michigan

farm

recalls

spending

time with

kittens,

swinging

beneath

a maple tree and playing with brothers

in the haymow.!Those memories, along

with recollections of sitting on the porch

at night, listening to crickets and

reading, were the kernels of inspiration

that germinated into an award winning

career as an author of more than thirty

fiction and non-fiction children’s books.!

Her most recent product, “Home in the

Cave,” casts a new and refreshing light

on the world of bats and how other

species come to rely on their presence.

A brief preview of the tale reveals

how Baby Bat loves his cave home and

never wants to leave it, but while

practicing wing flaps one night he falls,

only to be rescued by Pluribus Packrat.!

Ties to Michigan

helped Janet Halfmann

select St. Johns as the

location to open

distribution of her current

children’s book,

“Home in the Cave.”!


19

Rental Program

Air Conditioned Halls: $500

or $300 half hall

Canopies:

10x20...$65

20x20.....$85

20x30....$95

20x40...$110

Tables:

32” x 8’: $5

Round: $9

Plastic Chairs: .60

Outdoor Sign: $10

Ice Trays: $10

Drink Coolers: $10

Roasters: $10

Mention this ad & get $10 off rental of $100+ *exp 12/31/12

Rental Agent: Roger Dershem

989.227.2233

989.640.1313

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The Cellular Connection

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Your Verizon Premium Wireless Retailer right here in St. Johns.

Locally Owned & Operated by Alan Nelson - Support Your Local Merchants!

Experience the difference at The Cellular Connection, where we are committed to

providing the absolute BEST customer experience in wireless. Located just north

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He Finally Popped The Question...

He asked me if I wanted to start a family share

plan with him and get a new smartphone!

Together they explore the deepest,

darkest corners of the cave, all the while

meeting amazing animals that don’t

need eyes to see or colors to hide from

enemies.!Summarily, Baby Bat learns the

importance of their kind to the cave

environment and how other cave critters

come to rely on them.! Finally, the story

compels attention with the development

of the question; will Baby Bat venture out

of the cave to assist even other animals.

!Janet Halfmann (pronounced Howlf-

mun) is an award winning author of

children’s books.!She is a member of the

Society of Children’s Book Writers and

Illustrators.!Before becoming an author,

Janet was a daily newspaper reporter,

children’s magazine editor and creator

of coloring and activity books for Golden

Books.!She is a graduate of Michigan

State University, a mother of four and the

grandmother of four.!When not writing,

she enjoys gardening, exploring nature,

visiting living-history museums and

spending family time.! She currently

resides in south Milwaukee.!Janet

maintains a website at

www.janethalfmann.com.

!The Gallery is located at 215 N.

Clinton Ave. in St. Johns.!Persons

interested in Halfman’s book may

contact the Art Council at 989 224-2429.


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The stars were shining and the snow

was falling over Grace Haven Assisted

Living on Saturday February 18th.

Residents, families and staff all gathered

to drive away the chill on a cold winter’s

night. The first annual Snow Ball gave an

opportunity to dress up, dance and

enjoy delicious desserts.

The Scrambled Eggs

Band provided

entertainment for

the evening and

kept everyone’s

toes tapping. “It

was a wonderful

occasion to

gather and enjoy

each other’s

company” said one resident.

The outpouring of support was

greatly appreciated. St. Vincent de

Paul, Goodwill Industries, and many

family members graciously donated the

use of formal dresses. Volunteers Megan

Stoddard, Samantha Osborne, Madison

Hutton and Haley Robinson were

fantastic! To quote a family

member enjoying the

evening with her

Mother, “The staff at

Grace Haven goes

so far above and

beyond, these events

create priceless

memories for us all!”

SENIOR PROMGRACE HAVEN’S SNOWBALL DANCE IS A FAMILY AFFAIR

FAMILY, FRIENDS & STAFF

GATHERED TO DANCE &

CELEBRATE TOGETHER .

THE SNOWBALL DANCE,

IN IT’S INAUGURAL YEAR,

IS EXPECTED TO BE AN

ANNUAL EVENT AT

GRACE HAVEN

ASSISTED LIVING.


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These events create

priceless memories for us all.

“ “Photography by Emily Irish-Kendall


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Lessons to be learned. I’m definitely learning things on this journey of mine.

I’m finding out that I’ve hit a brick wall,

so to speak. As much as I would like to

say that it has been all sunshine and

rainbows, it’s not. It has been almost 3

years I have been losing weight and

gaining some. It has been almost 3 years

of walking,running, and lifting weights.

My motivation and drive has been going

non-stop since making the decision to get healthier. So, when I decided to slow

down, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I

thought it would be just a little break and

I would go back to the task at hand.

My last weigh-in was rather hard, actually, quite hard on me. I gained 7.6

pounds. There are always things to factor

in as a woman. We have water retention

and other female issues to take in

consideration; but it doesn’t make it any

easier to hit the scales and see that

number jump up. I have been taking a

little break from my running and

exercising. I’m finding out I’m one of

those people that can’t do that. It helps me, not just for losing weight but it gives

me clarity and balance.

I’ve wanted to enjoy the journey and

to experience all that it entails but I’m

not sure I like the up and down part of it.

It’s hard on me to go in month after

month and not hit the goal the Doctor

and I set. I get so close and then I have

a little bit of a set back and it messes with my head. I’m very proud of what

I’ve been able to accomplish but I just

wish there was a way to protect myself

from the disappointment I feel when it

doesn’t go well.

Writing these articles has helped me

and I’ve always written from my heart.

So, when it came time to write this

article, I was afraid to do just that; to address the negative side of my feelings.

I want to be an inspiration to people but

I also want people to see there are brick

walls you run into. I want them to see

that no matter what you do or what you

don’t do, you have the control. There is

JUST A SMALL TOWN GIRLTHE TRANSFORMATION OF MONICA - By Monica Stump-Thayer


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no one to blame but yourself. You control what goes in your mouth. You control your

thoughts and actions.

I’ve went from running at one point, 7

days a week on my treadmill to running 5

days a week part treadmill/part outside to

running 1-2 times a week. I needed a

break from it. It’s hard to keep up the

mental stamina that it takes to run and/or

exercise. I’m finding out that my drive and determination are still there. It’s a matter of

control now. I control whether I want to

exercise or not. I control what I put into my

mouth. It’s as simple as it was when I first

started on this journey.

So, I have been struggling with this brick

wall. I can choose to climb over the brick

wall, tunnel underneath it or knock it down.

Sitting in front of it crying will do no good. It still will be there until I make the choice. I

choose to knock it down and I have the

tools to press forward. I’m slowly getting

back to the task at hand. I haven’t given

up the fight. And, I know the lesson to be

learned is the brick wall is a part of my life

now, and always will be. As a person

having to deal with weight issues, it never

goes away. You just learn how to deal with

it! It’s your choice and no one else’s to make.

Follow Monica on her web blog by

visiting stjohnslocale.com

McKenzie & Crosby Insurance Agency• 212 N. Clinton Ave • St. Johns • 989.224.2479

Ovid, MI


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!"#"$"%&'()*+,-"989.640.2778

JT’sArchery Pro Shop & Firearms

Hours:Mon-Sat 9-5

Sunday by appt. Tom Hoover 989.224.0569

cell: 989.640.0567

Serving our customersfor over 20 years!

Just north on Business 27in St. Johns

517.224.2900

of the road ahead.A very clear view

the county and will use all of our

resources!in ways that "traditional" policing

can't.! Our county jail and it's employees

and all of our volunteer groups are also

very important and necessary to our

mission.!!We'll work with each of these

workgroups to make sure they're

functioning to their best ability.! New ideas

and!a more aggressive and modern

philosophy will accomplish this.! The

partnership with the community must be

built upon as well.!!We will expand on the

good things in place like

the!Neighborhood Watch program, DARE,

and other community based actions.

!!!

Maximum Capacity/Alternative

sentences.! Our jail bed space must be

used to it's maximum and kept filled and

that revenue stream must be kept open.!

I'll look at other avenues to increase this

revenue as well.! Local inmates of a first

time, non violent status could be given

alternative sentences!which would open

up even more bed space to lease!out,

which would add more to the revenue of

the jail, while at the same time, provide

ways for our own to get back to their

families and work.

Cressman believes our!Sheriff's!Office has

done a great job and Ryan is excited

about enhancing what is already!in

place, building relationships, and

strengthening community ties.!He believes

law enforcement is all about customer

service, building relationships, and team

work.!Including, traffic education and

enforcement, laws of arrest, and using

resources wisely.!Cressman believes that a

law enforcement leader should be

measured by these things amongst others.!

Cressman Continued


25

glad to a part of the community

“A leader should not be measured solely by

things like statistics, as they can be skewed, or by

revenue generated, and that should not be!a

major function of law enforcement.”

You will find Ryan out and about at many

community events and youth sports functions.! He

also can be found serving at Pilgrim United

Methodist Church on Sunday's and throughout

the week.

For more information on Ryan Cressman, visit his

Facebook page or his website at cressmanforsheriff.com.

I think you'll find me easy to talk to and willing to put service above myself.! I'm a good listener and!will help you solve problems by encouraging people to!be part of the solution.!You should also know that I'll always try to incorporate humor and to share a laugh or two.!Life is way too short to be too serious all the time. - Ryan Cressman.

“ “BRIDALLocale_2012.pdf 25 3/2/12 6:05 PM

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Politics. Zombies. Model trains. Silly hats. And of course, plungers. We could only be talking

about one person, Oakview South’s “custodial engineer,” Todd Feldpausch. He is the only person I know who whistles while

cleaning bathrooms, laughs off unexpected stomach explosions, reads Time magazine

cover to cover, spends hours creating meticulous details on model train sets, and has a collection of crazy hats. And of course,

he was recently cast as an extra in the upcoming movie “Detention of the Dead,”

in which his fourteen year old son Trevor also appears.

Todd is an expert on all things zombie, specifically AMC’s hit show “The Walking

Dead.” He’s also a huge political junkie, has amassed an impressive Star Wars collection, is the father of two children, husband of Kim

Feldpausch (a counselor at the Middle School), and walker of lab/beagle mix

Cocoa. I recently cornered Todd and started badgering him.

LS: So what exactly led you to this position?TF: I don’t think anyone sets out to be a

custodian. But for us it was perfect because it allowed me to be a stay-at-home dad with my kids. Working the night shift meant we

didn’t have to do the daycare thing. Having the opportunity to be a stay-at-home dad

definitely allowed me to experience things that most men don’t get to experience. And taking care of my children was all the

training I needed to be a custodian in an elementary school! (Laughter) In all

seriousness, necessity brought me here but the strong sense of community with the staff and experiencing the exuberance and

innocence of the students keep me here.

LS: Which begs the question: How much housecleaning do you do at home? TF: Honestly, not a significant amount.

Bathrooms are mine. Go figure! But I am not allowed to touch the laundry.

LS: Tell me about your kids and wife.TF: Trevor is in the 8th grade, is involved in

basketball, cross country, track and the jazz band. Rebecca is in the 6th grade, and is

very active in cheerleading, dance and the arts. She plays the flute like her mom. Academically, both of my kids excel and

are 4.0 students. My wife Kim and I have been married for almost 18 years. She is a

mother first and foremost. Before she became a counselor, she taught high school, and found that she enjoyed

counseling the students so much she chose to obtain her Master’s from MSU.

Oakview South Elementary: Day in the LifeA MAN OF MANY HATS - By Lisa Soros


27

For more information about Oakview South Elementary as well as photos, check out their Facebook page!

LS: How do they feel about zombies?TF: It’s a 50/50 split. Boys yay, girls nay.

LS: So no Walking Dead family viewing nights?TF: No, no, no! The wife likes it but she can’t watch it.

(Chuckles)

LS: The producers of The Walking Dead call you. They’ve seen you in “Detention of the Dead” and they need a new zombie for the show. Your reaction?TF: When do you need me on set!

LS: Who do you admire?TF: My wife, definitely.

LS: You and I have worked together for several years, and we have learned that laughter is the best way to get through the day. Do you have any funny moments that you can share?TF: Where does one start? Everything is kind of surreal

to me. I suppose the call to clean up the “snake” on the playground would make the list. It turned out

to be “petrified dog poop.” (We both laugh)

LS: Tell us your absolute dream job.TF: I would love to be a movie producer.

LS: When can we expect to see “Detention of the Dead” in theaters?TF: Sometime in 2012. Check the website http://

www.detentionofthedead.com.

See more from Lisa Soros at stjohnsLocale.com


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On Wednesday, February 22, the City of St. Johns sold their first vacant lot to

Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County

for the purpose of constructing a new

home this summer for a low income

family in need of adequate shelter.

“We are so pleased to be building in

St. Johns for the first time, “said Sue

Carroll, Executive Director. “We have

built homes for families in Maple Rapids, Laingsburg, Wacousta and Ovid, but

never before in the heart of the county

that we represent. We felt it was the right time for this project.”

The lot, located on Lansing Street just

south of Townsend Road, is an ideal

location for a family because of its close

proximity to local churches, merchants

and all the St. Johns schools.

“The St. Johns City Commission and

City staff is excited about Habitat for

Humanity’s acquisition of city land for its next residential home build,” said Dennis

LaForest, City Manager. “We hope this is

just the first in many Habitat homes to

be built in our community. New

construction and adding a new family

with children attending local schools is

the kind of growth that keeps our city

healthy. We definitely consider this a

‘win-win’ moment for St. Johns.”

Habitat Accepting Homeowner Pre-

applications through March 31, 2012.

Pre-applications are being accepted for

additional homes to be built in 2012 and

2013. To qualify, applicants must

Highlights: Habitat For HumanitySeventh house to be built in St. Johns


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!

!"""#$%&'()*+,#-%.

!"#$%&$'"!($)*%$+,#'$)*%-$+"..,/01

/0!$%&'()!*+,!"(!&%1(!2(3)4!05(6(!7%6!8%9!'963)4!%)(!%7!05(!.%:0!.(.%6;2&(!

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currently have a need for adequate housing. They must be a resident of Clinton

County and be willing to partner with

Habitat by working on their house and

other projects. Applicants must be

considered low income, meet minimum

and maximum income criteria and have a

satisfactory credit history.

To learn more about this great

opportunity, informational meetings will be held at the Habitat office located in the

ReStore, 2352 N. US 27, St. Johns, on

Wednesday, March 21 at 7 pm and

Saturday, March 24 at 10 am. Please

contact Sue Carroll at 989-227-1771 or

[email protected] for more

information.

Left: Pictured from l-r are Dan Redman,

Roger Wells, Theresa Fedewa-Wells and Sue Carroll representing Habitat, and Dana

Beaman, Mayor, Mindy Seavey, City Clerk,

and John Salemi, City Attorney,

representing the City of St. Johns at the

closing on the Lansing Street property.

Information provided by Sue Carroll,

Executive Director, Habitat For Humanity of

Clinton County, PO Box 313, St. Johns, MI

48879. Phone 989.227.1771 or visit their website, habitatclinton.org

habitatclinton.org


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12 Open for Business: Event & Catering VenueThe Dell Event Center and Get Catered combined make for great events.

You might recognize the face of The Dell Event Center & Get Catered, LLC from one of our favorite restaurants. Norm Nethaway has been

serving customers for 7 years at The Wheel Inn in St. Johns. Norm is now the owner of The Dell Event Centered and Get Catered, LLC. A 1992 graduate of Ovid-Elsie, Norm’s family has been in the community for generations. Norm and his

associates, Autume McElroy, Sales & Client Services and Monica Butler, General Manager look forward to assisting you with all of your Catering and Event needs.

Their future plans include developing food products for purchase, along with securing relationships and working with local organizations to provide local fundraising options. They want to

have

available fresh Produce in season along with craft shows

and potentially a Farmers Market.Get Catered,

LLC provides off-site catering services, and has been servicing mid-Michigan for 4 years. The staff has years of food experience, affordable pricing

with excellent customer service in outdoor or indoor events. Get Catered, LLC can help make your dreams happen! Call or email today at 989.834.5100 [email protected]. The Dell Event Center is located at 5556 E. M-21, St.

Johns.

The Dell Event Center boasts• 20 acres in rural Clinton County, but easily

accessible• Fully appointed private restaurant perfect for

multiple events:• Baby or Bridal Showers• Meetings

• Family Parties - when they've outgrown Grandma's house

• Birthdays and Anniversaries• Fundraising Events• Inside dining areas seat up to 150

• Charming double-sided fireplace• Plenty of parking• Comfortable atmosphere, linens available for

more formal events• Decorating Services available


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Do you need to ask people to repeat themselves? Do you turn up the TV louder than others to hear it?

Do you have to strain to understand conversations?

See our websitefor our hearing aid

surveys,videos, articles, hearing info,

maps & MORE!

www.AdvancedAudiologyDewitt.com

Hearing Starts Here.

Dr. Linda K. Wright AuD., CCC-A

!!!"#$%&'#(%)*(+', "-(. /0012%$134,#$12%$5

6,)&,')%$1789*:5

;%<<$1;(+#5


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Donald Porter, MD Brandon Minnick, DO

Surgical Services

!"#$%&'()Specializing in minimally invasive techniques for treatment of: GERD,

Laparoscopic repair of Stomach & Incisional Hernias, Colon & Rectal Surgery for colon cancer, Upper GI Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, Thyroid & Parathyroid

Need more information?

Call us at 989.224.8971www.sparrowclinton.org

In-o�ce procedures include:Incision and drainage care

Removal of skin tags and cystsBiopsy of soft tissue masses

Wound careAnorectal treatment


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