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Eaton Rapids

Eaton Rapids

Featured Story

Devin Milheim named Eaton Rapids Athletic Director

Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer

(Photo provided – Devin Miheim, ERPS Athletic Director & H.S. Wrestling Coach, son Braxton & wife Ashley.

Eaton Rapids Public Schools has appointed Devin Milheim as the district’s new athletic director, combining his leadership experience, community roots, and dedication to student-athletes. A 2008 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Milheim has been with the district for the last six years, previously serving as the MTSS coordinator at the middle school and assisting with both middle and high school athletics. He also continues to serve as the high school’s wrestling coach.

Milheim’s connection to Eaton Rapids runs deep. During his time as a student-athlete, he competed in football, wrestling, and baseball, later continuing his athletic career at North Central College, where he wrestled at the collegiate level. His extensive background in sports and education makes him an ideal fit to lead the Greyhounds’ athletic programs into the future.

Before joining Eaton Rapids Public Schools, Milheim spent three years with Ann Arbor Public Schools. His experience in Ann Arbor helped him develop a holistic understanding of student development, which he now applies to his role in athletics. This unique blend of classroom and athletic experience allows him to focus on the growth of student-athletes both on and off the field.

A major focus of Milheim’s early tenure as athletic director is improving athletic facilities. Recently, new weight room equipment was installed at the high school, marking a significant upgrade for the athletic programs. The state-of-the-art equipment is expected to greatly enhance training opportunities for student-athletes, helping them reach their full potential.

In addition to the improvements at the high school, the district is repurposing the previous weight room equipment to create a new facility at the middle school. This expansion will provide younger athletes the opportunity to begin building strength and conditioning skills earlier, which will aid in their overall athletic development. These improvements reflect Milheim’s commitment to establishing a culture of health and fitness within Eaton Rapids athletics.

Milheim’s vision for the athletic department extends beyond the physical resources. He is dedicated to creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive both athletically and personally. He wants the athletic program to be a place where students form lasting memories and friendships while competing at the highest levels.

“My goal is for our student-athletes to create lifelong memories and friendships, while competing for championships here at ERHS,” Milheim said, highlighting his belief in the value of relationships and teamwork in athletics and life.

Under Milheim’s leadership, the new weight room facilities are expected to play a crucial role in the future of Eaton Rapids athletics. The combination of enhanced resources, dedicated staff, and Milheim’s commitment to the success of student-athletes positions Eaton Rapids for continued athletic excellence.

With his strong community ties, coaching experience, and vision for the future, Milheim is set to guide Eaton Rapids athletics to new heights, ensuring that every student-athlete has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

Mason

Mason

Featured Story

Vietnam Veterans Annual Picnic

Christi Whiting 

Editor

(Photo Provided)

 

This year’s picnic is planned for August 26 at noon at Bennett Park in Charlotte. All Vietnam vets and their spouses are invited and should bring a dish to pass. Whistlepig BBQ in Charlotte will be furnishing pulled pork for the group, with water and place settings also provided. “As long as you guys meet, I’ll help you out,” Whistlepig BBQ owner Jason Strotheide told Jerry Taylor, one of the organizers of the now-annual event. “The guys appreciate this very much,” Taylor added. The last picnic was held in 2022 with 38 people attending.

Many veterans remember some tough stuff about their experience in the military during the Vietnam war. How they were treated when they returned home is especially painful. There were no parades or welcoming parties. Many were treated disrespectfully due to the war being so unpopular. They learned to hide their veteran status, and many have refused to discuss their experience in Vietnam over the years because of the attitudes that were directed toward them. 

Jerry Taylor, Dave Smith, Fred Meyers, and Darrell Gingrich – all Eaton County Vietnam veterans – decided to do something about it and started this back in 2017. They set out to bring as many Eaton County Vietnam veterans as possible together, as a kind of reunion, to talk, share stories, and reminisce about their mutual experiences. They organized a Vietnam veterans’ picnic and invited everyone that they knew to be a veteran of the conflict. “The stories and the camaraderie are what keep many vets coming back,” Taylor said. Taylor is the last man still alive from his unit, so there’s no chance of a reunion with those with whom he served. “We don’t want to see it end,” said Taylor. “We look forward to it.”

In addition to the annual picnic at Bennett Park, a group of Vietnam veterans also meets at the Charlotte Big Boy restaurant about 8 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. They have breakfast, and sit and talk about a little of everything, Taylor said, and they welcome others to join them.

They also utilize the services of Thomas Lewis, Veterans Service Officer for Eaton County. Lewis provides services for veterans and their spouses. “He’s great at helping folks out,” explained Taylor, “whether it’s death benefits, housing, education, insurance, pensions, or medical care, he’s there for us.”

For additional information about the veterans’ events contact Jerry Taylor at 517-242-3048.

DIMONDALE

Dimondale

Featured Story

New business in Dimondale

Robin Platt
Contributing Writer

(Photo by Robin Platt/TCJ)

Bridge Street has a new addition to it’s storefronts. The Attic Door recently opened, and I had the great pleasure to meet with the owner Robbie and receive the grand tour. Let me start by saying that this store is just gorgeous from the amazing chandelier that greets you as you enter, to the hand crafted one-of-a-kind gifts, to the Mickey Mouse memorabilia. Her logo says, “Treasures from the Past and Present”, and it’s not only her passion for keeping these items in use, it’s both her family history as many items currently in the store have been in the family for quite some time and also a reminder of Robbie’s dad and mentor, whom she would occasionally tag along with while he was finding treasures for the store that he once owned. You feel all the love once you step through the door, and it continues to the very back of the store where she has created a library full of delightful items.

The Attic Door sells new and preloved items and there are several other vendors located inside the store; items change regularly so you will want to make a habit of stopping by. The Pink Sister offers beautiful pink dishes that you must see to appreciate. The Lilliput Shoppe (formerly of Mason) has moved into The Attic Door and carries a large assortment of Miniatures and Dollhouses. It really is fun to see all the tiny treasures she has to offer. There is Hazel May Creations, who creates a variety of candles. There are just so many wonderful items, too many to list so you really need to stop by and see for yourself.

I am sure that you will find many things in the store to put on your wish list this Holiday season, and Robbie will be there to greet you with a smile and send you on your way feeling like family. Each time I have been in the store, I have found new treasures and more things that are unique and affordable. It is Robbie’s hope that, the Dimondale and surrounding communities will continue to shop her downtown store and find that perfect gift for every occasion (if there even needs to be an occasion). Stop by The Attic Door at 133 N. Bridge Street, Dimondale to find your own treasures or you may call them at 517-230-9823 for their Holiday hours.

Eaton County

Eaton County

Featured Story

Charlotte social district, the first in Eaton County

Kelsey Klont
Contributing Writer

(Photo by Kelsey Klont/TCJ – Charlotte social district is now open!)

In 2020, the state of Michigan passed bill MCL 436.1551, which allows of the open carry and consumption of adult beverages in a designated space in towns and communities across the state, known to be called a social district. Which by definition is a designated area deemed suitable by the local government where consumers are able to enjoy spirits in designated commons area that is outside of a licensed establishment. Since then, 140 municipalities have adopted this legal acceptance for social interaction purposes, allowing for all adults to enjoy each other’s company with a refreshing adult beverage in a public space.

Social districts, while enjoyable by the masses, take a lot of dedicated work by the CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, city officials, and other reputable organizations behind the scenes in determining and establishing the ground rules, boundaries, and all the necessary details to properly ensure the public a positive experience with a social district.

Charlotte is now home to the first social district within Eaton County, provided from the collaborative efforts of CharlotteRising alongside City Council. CharlotteRising, a Michigan Mainstreet organization that is completely volunteer based, sees the importance of a social district in the aspect that is allows for socialization in a fun and relaxed setting.

This has been a longtime in the making, with the initial work beginning well over a year ago and now the wait is finally over. On Monday, November 25, CharlotteRising held the ribbon cutting of the social district, which allows for open carry of adult beverages only from participating bars and restaurants. Those being Acapulco Mexican Grill, Riedy’s Tavern, T Caps Tavern, and Charlotte Brewing Company.

Since the opening of the social district there has been some voiced questions and concern regarding the function of the social district. Below Annie Williams, CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, has kindly provided those answers and relief below to help provide more information.

What purpose does CharlotteRising see in bringing a social district to downtown Charlotte?

CharlotteRising is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization focused on expanding the economic capacity of Charlotte and its downtown area, and has a mission of cultivating a strong, creative, and diverse economy, while investing in Charlotte’s future. Social districts and municipal downtowns have demonstrated since 2020, that having a social district increases their economy, drawing additional and new patrons to businesses, concerts, festivals, etc. Often events in a social district provide fund raising opportunities to reinvest back into the downtown in forms such as beautification and safety features, that otherwise would come from tax revenues.

How was this idea approved and were potential issues vetted?

Over a period of nearly two years, the social district for Charlotte was discussed and evaluated by city council members representing the Charlotte citizenry. Numerous public meetings as well as council meetings were held, issues were discussed that were brought before the council through interaction by council members and the public they represent. The city’s attorney, familiar with social district law and other municipalities experience, also evaluated the city’s plan. Additional vetting occurred by council members reaching out to several of the 141 communities that have established a social district for insight and guidance to potential issues, and best practices to address these matters. In addition to the city council, Charlotte’s Police Department reviewed the social district plans and contacted law enforcement agencies with social districts for insight. The result is that having a social district has not shown to increase problems, accidents, or DUI’s.

At a higher level, Charlotte’s social district plan and boundaries were reviewed by the State of Michigan before giving the go ahead for Charlotte.

What procedures are in place to ensure orderly conduct and enjoyment within the social district?

Drinks can only be purchased at “approved” and “social district licensed” bars/restaurants. Outside alcohol is not allowed. Drinks must be in designated, clear cups – limited to 16 oz. serving size. Alcohol may only be purchased and consumed within the boundaries of the social district – identified by signage around the boundaries of the district. All laws pertaining to public intoxication, legal drinking age, drinking and driving, etc., apply to the social district. Purchased drinks cannot be taken from bar to bar nor outside of the social district. Downtown businesses within the social district may choose whether or not they participate, meaning they can prohibit social district drinks within their establishment. Signage in either the window or door of a business will indicate if the business allows drinks or not. The hours of the district are limited to Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Onondaga

Onondaga

Featured Story

Vietnam Veterans Annual Picnic

Christi Whiting 

Editor

(Photo Provided)

 

This year’s picnic is planned for August 26 at noon at Bennett Park in Charlotte. All Vietnam vets and their spouses are invited and should bring a dish to pass. Whistlepig BBQ in Charlotte will be furnishing pulled pork for the group, with water and place settings also provided. “As long as you guys meet, I’ll help you out,” Whistlepig BBQ owner Jason Strotheide told Jerry Taylor, one of the organizers of the now-annual event. “The guys appreciate this very much,” Taylor added. The last picnic was held in 2022 with 38 people attending.

Many veterans remember some tough stuff about their experience in the military during the Vietnam war. How they were treated when they returned home is especially painful. There were no parades or welcoming parties. Many were treated disrespectfully due to the war being so unpopular. They learned to hide their veteran status, and many have refused to discuss their experience in Vietnam over the years because of the attitudes that were directed toward them. 

Jerry Taylor, Dave Smith, Fred Meyers, and Darrell Gingrich – all Eaton County Vietnam veterans – decided to do something about it and started this back in 2017. They set out to bring as many Eaton County Vietnam veterans as possible together, as a kind of reunion, to talk, share stories, and reminisce about their mutual experiences. They organized a Vietnam veterans’ picnic and invited everyone that they knew to be a veteran of the conflict. “The stories and the camaraderie are what keep many vets coming back,” Taylor said. Taylor is the last man still alive from his unit, so there’s no chance of a reunion with those with whom he served. “We don’t want to see it end,” said Taylor. “We look forward to it.”

In addition to the annual picnic at Bennett Park, a group of Vietnam veterans also meets at the Charlotte Big Boy restaurant about 8 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. They have breakfast, and sit and talk about a little of everything, Taylor said, and they welcome others to join them.

They also utilize the services of Thomas Lewis, Veterans Service Officer for Eaton County. Lewis provides services for veterans and their spouses. “He’s great at helping folks out,” explained Taylor, “whether it’s death benefits, housing, education, insurance, pensions, or medical care, he’s there for us.”

For additional information about the veterans’ events contact Jerry Taylor at 517-242-3048.

Charlotte

Charlotte

Featured Story

Charlotte social district, the first in Eaton County

Kelsey Klont
Contributing Writer

(Photo by Kelsey Klont/TCJ – Charlotte social district is now open!)

In 2020, the state of Michigan passed bill MCL 436.1551, which allows of the open carry and consumption of adult beverages in a designated space in towns and communities across the state, known to be called a social district. Which by definition is a designated area deemed suitable by the local government where consumers are able to enjoy spirits in designated commons area that is outside of a licensed establishment. Since then, 140 municipalities have adopted this legal acceptance for social interaction purposes, allowing for all adults to enjoy each other’s company with a refreshing adult beverage in a public space.

Social districts, while enjoyable by the masses, take a lot of dedicated work by the CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, city officials, and other reputable organizations behind the scenes in determining and establishing the ground rules, boundaries, and all the necessary details to properly ensure the public a positive experience with a social district.

Charlotte is now home to the first social district within Eaton County, provided from the collaborative efforts of CharlotteRising alongside City Council. CharlotteRising, a Michigan Mainstreet organization that is completely volunteer based, sees the importance of a social district in the aspect that is allows for socialization in a fun and relaxed setting.

This has been a longtime in the making, with the initial work beginning well over a year ago and now the wait is finally over. On Monday, November 25, CharlotteRising held the ribbon cutting of the social district, which allows for open carry of adult beverages only from participating bars and restaurants. Those being Acapulco Mexican Grill, Riedy’s Tavern, T Caps Tavern, and Charlotte Brewing Company.

Since the opening of the social district there has been some voiced questions and concern regarding the function of the social district. Below Annie Williams, CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, has kindly provided those answers and relief below to help provide more information.

What purpose does CharlotteRising see in bringing a social district to downtown Charlotte?

CharlotteRising is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization focused on expanding the economic capacity of Charlotte and its downtown area, and has a mission of cultivating a strong, creative, and diverse economy, while investing in Charlotte’s future. Social districts and municipal downtowns have demonstrated since 2020, that having a social district increases their economy, drawing additional and new patrons to businesses, concerts, festivals, etc. Often events in a social district provide fund raising opportunities to reinvest back into the downtown in forms such as beautification and safety features, that otherwise would come from tax revenues.

How was this idea approved and were potential issues vetted?

Over a period of nearly two years, the social district for Charlotte was discussed and evaluated by city council members representing the Charlotte citizenry. Numerous public meetings as well as council meetings were held, issues were discussed that were brought before the council through interaction by council members and the public they represent. The city’s attorney, familiar with social district law and other municipalities experience, also evaluated the city’s plan. Additional vetting occurred by council members reaching out to several of the 141 communities that have established a social district for insight and guidance to potential issues, and best practices to address these matters. In addition to the city council, Charlotte’s Police Department reviewed the social district plans and contacted law enforcement agencies with social districts for insight. The result is that having a social district has not shown to increase problems, accidents, or DUI’s.

At a higher level, Charlotte’s social district plan and boundaries were reviewed by the State of Michigan before giving the go ahead for Charlotte.

What procedures are in place to ensure orderly conduct and enjoyment within the social district?

Drinks can only be purchased at “approved” and “social district licensed” bars/restaurants. Outside alcohol is not allowed. Drinks must be in designated, clear cups – limited to 16 oz. serving size. Alcohol may only be purchased and consumed within the boundaries of the social district – identified by signage around the boundaries of the district. All laws pertaining to public intoxication, legal drinking age, drinking and driving, etc., apply to the social district. Purchased drinks cannot be taken from bar to bar nor outside of the social district. Downtown businesses within the social district may choose whether or not they participate, meaning they can prohibit social district drinks within their establishment. Signage in either the window or door of a business will indicate if the business allows drinks or not. The hours of the district are limited to Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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