Every Thursday, Kiwanis volunteers help families in need furnish their homes for free, offering dignity, hope, and a fresh start in Washtenaw County. On a blustery winter Thursday, clusters of excited shoppers, accompanied by Kiwanis volunteers and flatbeds, tour the Kiwanis Thrift Sale showrooms, searching for everything a home needs: microwaves and mixers, tables and … Read more
Ann Arbor thrift sale, community support, free household goods, Kiwanis Voucher Days, Washtenaw County assistance
Chelsea’s Main Street Park Cleanup Resumes with Big Plans Ahead
Doug Marrin
Environmental remediation kicks off in April, turning Chelsea’s former industrial site into a vibrant community space—complete with skatepark and climbing wall. Photo: Soil remediation will soon resume for Chelsea’s Main Street Park project. Courtesy MSPA. Chelsea’s Main Street Park Alliance (MSPA) has announced that environmental remediation efforts for Chelsea’s Main Street Park are set to … Read more
Chelsea Main Street Park, Community Development, environmental remediation, skatepark construction,
Wolverines Unite in the Heart of Buckeye Country
Cassidy Jenkins
Discover how Michigan alumni keep the maize-and-blue spirit thriving deep within rival territory. In Columbus, Ohio, where the longstanding rivalry between Ohio State and the University of Michigan runs deep, one might expect to find only scarlet and gray. However, tucked away in the heart of Buckeye country is a passionate group of Wolverines—the University … Read more
alumni networking, Michigan Club Central Ohio, scholarship opportunities, University of Michigan alumni, Wolverines Columbus
Union Rec: Breathing New Life into a Historic Space
Cassidy Jenkins
Discover Union Rec, Ann Arbor’s hidden gem where historic charm meets vibrant communal dining. Nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor, the Union Rec restaurant holds a world of possibilities —an experience, a gathering place, and a nod to the past infused with vivid energy. Housed in what was once the Fingerle Lumber property, the … Read more
Ann Stevenson and Curt Catallo, communal dining, Fingerle Lumber, historic restaurants, Union Rec Ann Arbor
Encore’s First Annual Gala a Huge Success
Steven Sheldon
Photo: (L-R) David Moan, Matt Bogart, Jessica Boevers Bogart, Matt Mogart, Chelsea Packard, Geoff Packard, Jessica Grové & Dan Cooney. Photo courtesy of The Encore Musical Theatre Company Have you ever attended an event and left with the impression that you were a part of what you thought was your version of heaven? Well, Thursday … Read more
City of Dexter Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Deputies responded to 165 calls for police service in the City of Dexter, down from 250 the previous year, a 34% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 359, down from 521 for the same period last year, a 31% decrease. Officers conducted 29 traffic stops, down from 131 last year. Eleven … Read more
Webster Township Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Deputies responded to 85 calls for police service in Webster Township, down from 115 the previous year, a 26% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 185, down from 241 for the same period last year, a 23% decrease. Officers conducted Six traffic stops, down from 44 last year. No citations were … Read more
Saline-Milan Water Polo Starts Season with Pair of Wins
Mike Williamson
The Saline- Milan girls’ water polo team had a quick start to the 2025 season with a pair of wins last week. The Chickadees opened the season with a hard-fought 7-4 win over Birmingham Groves March 18. Groves took a 1-0 lead after one period, but Saline-Milan scored three times in the second to take … Read more
Hornets, Milan athletics, Milan Big Reds, Saline Athletics, Saline Milan Water Polo
Dexter Tennis Takes Down Milan in Season Opener
Mike Williamson
The Dexter and Milan girls’ tennis teams opened their seasons last week with the Dreadnaughts taking down the Big Reds 7-1 March 19. The Dreads swept the four singles matches with Milan’s lone win coming at one-doubles. Brynlee Williams at one and Elise Lu at four picked up 6-0, 6-0 singles wins. Siena Taylor won … Read more
Dexter Softball Sweeps FGR in Season Opener
Mike Williamson
The Dexter softball team opened the 2025 season in impressive fashion last week with a doubleheader sweep of Father Gabriel Richard. The Dreadnaughts used a big eight-run second inning to take the opener 14-0. Gigi Kirkey smacked a pair of triples and drove in three runs to lead the Dexter offense. Clara Lamb was 3-3 … Read more
Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited Hosts Conservation Fundraiser
STN Staff
Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited (AATU) will be hosting a conservation fundraiser April 9 at the Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales & Kitchen (2319 Bishop Circle, Dexter, MI) from 5:30-9pm. Trout Unlimited’s mission is to Conserve, Protect and Restore Michigan’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds, as well as Huron River and its main tributary, Mill Creek. Guided … Read more
Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited, conservation, Jolly Pumpkin Dexter
Chelsea State Bank Announces 2025 Woman of CSB Award
STN Staff
Chelsea State Bank presented the fourth annual Woman of CSB Award to Sue Jacobs, for her longstanding dedication to Chelsea State Bank and for her exemplary philanthropic efforts in the Chelsea Community. “It is with great excitement that we are recognizing Sue Jacobs as the recipient of the 2025 Woman of CSB Award,” said Joanne Rau, … Read more
Chelsea Gets Ready for Annual Sounds & Sights Event
STN Staff
The Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce is hard at work planning for the summer’s best free community event, Sounds & Sights! For the first time ever, all areas of Sounds & Sights, including the Social Commons during the Festival weekend, are now FREE! Live auditions were recently held for Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights … Read more
Rank MI Vote Hosts Chelsea Town Hall on Ranked Choice Voting
STN Staff
On Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM, Rank MI Vote will host a town hall event in Chelsea to educate the public on Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) and its potential to improve Michigan elections. As America faces increasing political division, many voters feel their voices are unheard. This event will present the problems with … Read more
Washtenaw Millage Town Hall to be Held April 9
Matt Rosentreter
Chelsea Senior Center will be hosting a town hall, including a Q&A, to answer any questions Washtenaw residents might have about the Older Adults Millage. Washtenaw County commissioners Jason Maciejewski and Shannon Beeman will be leading the discussion. The millage was initially created to address the rise in the over 60 population in Washtenaw County. … Read more
Dexter Community Fund Reaches $1 Million Milestone
STN Staff
The Dexter Community Fund (DCF) has reached a significant milestone, surpassing $1 million in its permanent endowment. Established in 2014 by Dexter residents, DCF was created to address local needs and enhance the quality of life in the community. “We have spent the last two years focusing on expanding our message and our impact. Ten … Read more
History Hounds: Chelsea Senior Center Seeks Early History
STN Staff
Chelsea Senior Center celebrates 60 years this spring. The activity-driven organization has blossomed from its humble beginnings into a weekday haven for socializing, support, education, movement, services, the arts, volunteering and a whole lot of fun for more than 1,300 seniors in the area. Sixty years ago, seniors first started gathering at the Korner … Read more
City Council Opts-in to Michigan Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund
Matt Rosentreter
Michigan’s recently passed law requiring cities to either establish a low-income energy assistance fund or opt-in to the currently existing state fund set a deadline for the decision as April 1. At Chelsea City Council’s March 17 meeting, the council voted to opt-in to the state fund. Concerns were raised by council members about the … Read more
Chelsea Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Officers responded to 337 calls for police service in the City of Chelsea, up from 335 the previous year, a 1% increase. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 671, down from 704 for the same period last year, a 5% decrease. Officers conducted 111 traffic stops, up from 107 last year. Twenty-nine … Read more
GALLERY: Chelsea Schools Celebrate First-Ever Rock Your Socks Classic Basketball Game
Doug Marrin
Students from Chelsea and Dexter schools united on the court for a joyful display of inclusion and teamwork Chelsea Schools hosted the first-ever “Rock Your Socks Classic” on Friday, March 21, at the Chelsea High School gymnasium. The Unified basketball game featured student-athletes from Chelsea and Dexter Schools in grades 3-8, bringing together participants with … Read more
Chelsea schools, Dexter Schools, Disability Awareness Month, Down Syndrome Awareness, Unified Sports
Scio Township Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Deputies responded to 566 calls for police service in Scio Township, down from 685 the previous year, a 17% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 1,174, down from 1,531 for the same period last year, a 23% decrease. Officers conducted 104 traffic stops, down from 208 last year. Sixteen citations were … Read more
Lodi Township Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Officers responded to 128 calls for police service in Lodi Township, down from 192 the previous year, a 33% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 291, down from 491 for the same period last year, a 41% decrease. Officers conducted 29 traffic stops, down from 104 last year. Six citations were … Read more
Dexter Township Police Report, February 2025
Doug Marrin
In February 2025, Deputies responded to 127 calls for police service in Dexter Township, down from 132 last year, a 4% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Feb) are 232, down from 288 for the same period last year, a 19% decrease. Officers conducted 30 traffic stops, down from 53 last year. Twenty-five citations were issued. … Read more
Brewed Awakenings Owner Announces Retirement After 14 Years
Sue Kelch
Kim Kaster, owner of Brewed Awakenings, is retiring after 14 years of building a beloved community coffee shop, leaving a legacy of great coffee and cherished connections. Congratulations to Brewed Awakenings owner Kim Kaster, who recently announced her retirement on Facebook. Having just celebrated their 14th anniversary on March 1, Kim explains in her remarks … Read more
Brewed Awakenings, coffee community, Kim Kaster retirement, local business news, Saline coffee shop
Saline Celebrates School Expansion Despite Rainy Groundbreaking
Sue Kelch
Saline Middle School’s expansion is moving forward with major upgrades, including a new STEAM Center, senior center improvements, and a community athletic complex. Although the groundbreaking ceremony for the Saline Middle School expansion was held indoors due to inclement weather, no one’s enthusiasm was dampened. Saline Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven Laatsch describes the next remodeling … Read more
Community Development, Saline Schools, school expansion, Senior Center, STEAM education
Saline City Council Passes Resolution Recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility
Doug Marrin
The Saline City Council voted to recognize Transgender Day of Visibility, committing to inclusivity and flying the transgender pride flag annually. At its March 17 meeting, the Saline City Council approved a resolution recognizing March 31 as Transgender Day of Visibility, reaffirming the city’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the transgender community. The resolution … Read more
city council resolution, community support, LGBTQ rights, Saline Michigan, Transgender Day of Visibility
Chelsea District Library Welcomes Three Award-Winning Authors
STN Staff
Virginia Krueger Chelsea District Library (CDL) is thrilled to announce the 17th Annual Midwest Literary Walk lineup featuring New York Times best-selling authors Shelby Van Pelt, Angie Kim, and Sarah Vowell. Each year, Midwest Literary Walk showcases award-winning authors from around the country at historic venues throughout downtown Chelsea. The authors will read from their … Read more
Chelsea District Library, Chelsea District Library Events, Midwest Literary Walk
Dexter All Stars Dance Team Wins National Championship
STN Staff
Edge All Stars Dance Team, from Dexter’s Dancers Edge, has returned from Florida as UDA All Star National Champions! The Senior Edge All Stars won the 1st place National Title in the Senior Pom Small division against 10 other teams at ESPN Wide World Sports Complex in Disney World March 8th & 9th. The team … Read more
Chelsea School District Hosts Penny Drive to Raise Money for Main Street Park
STN Staff
Main Street Park Alliance (MSPA) is pleased to announce that Chelsea School District will host penny drives to encourage community kids to chip in to help build the park. This is an opportunity to search those couch cushions to fill the collection buckets! The Penny Drive Campaign will run from April 2 to May 2, … Read more
Saline Council Debates Fire Department Budget Amid Concerns Over Governance
Doug Marrin
Saline City Council approved a major budget increase for the fire department amid concerns over financial oversight and fire board dysfunction. The Saline City Council reviewed and ultimately approved the Saline Area Fire Department’s (SAFD) 2025-2026 budget on March 17, but not without raising concerns over financial transparency and governance issues within the fire board. … Read more
fire board accountability, firefighter funding, Michigan municipal budgets, Saline City Council, Saline Fire Department budget
Residents Speak Out on Saline Dam Debate
Doug Marrin
Saline residents urged city leaders to reconsider removing the Saline Dam, citing historical, recreational, and financial concerns during a public comment session. Photo: Wendy Weller speaks to the Saline City Council at its March 17, 2025 meeting about the impact the dam has on her business. Photo: city video screenshot At the March 17 Saline … Read more
dam removal debate, historic preservation, Michigan rivers, Saline City Council, Saline Dam
Saline Weighs Future of Aging Dam with Costly Choices Ahead
Doug Marrin
City officials review a feasibility study outlining the costs and environmental impact of removing or rehabilitating the Saline River Dam. Photo: Saline River Dam: Google Streetview The future of the Saline River Dam took center stage at the Saline City Council meeting on March 17, as city officials and engineers presented a feasibility study outlining … Read more
dam removal study, environmental impact, Michigan dam infrastructure, Saline City Council, Saline River Dam
Residential Development Proposed in Scio Township
Lonnie Huhman
A residential development proposed to be constructed next to Menards got its initial site plan approved by the Scio Township Board. The applicant was requesting a site plan approval to construct 60 townhome units on 11.07 acres as part of the Menards outlot development, according to township planner Laura Kreps. The site is currently vacant … Read more
Saline Students Experience Costa Rica
Lonnie Huhman
Whether on a tour of a pineapple plantation or sitting down for a conversation with their host family, a group of AP Spanish students from Saline High School (SHS) thoroughly enjoyed their recent trip to Costa Rica, where they mixed fun with learning. The visit to this Central American country was a school trip with … Read more
Chelsea Hospital Appoints Five New Members to Board
STN Staff
Chelsea Hospital has appointed five new at-large members to its 16-person board, which is responsible for ensuring alignment with its mission, meeting community needs through strategic planning, oversight of quality and patient safety, approving medical staff appointments, and engaging with the Joint Venture Board in long-term planning. The new board members are Nicholas Angel, community … Read more
Adult Leaners Institute Announces its April Classes
STN Staff
April brings showers…and butterflies, native plants, heroes, music and so much more. April also brings Easter, and a fitting way to prepare for that most solemn of feasts is with Reverend Daniel Pezzica’ s third and final In-Person and Zoom class on the History of Church Music on April 1 at Our Savior Lutheran Church … Read more
Compound Interest
Steve Gwisdalla
Compound Interest By Steve Gwisdalla Originally Published 3/20/2025 “Good and evil both increase at compound interest. This is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance. The smallest good act today is the capture of a strategic point from which, a few months later, you may be able … Read more
Your Suffering Isn’t Their Fault
Steve Gwisdalla
Your Suffering Isn’t Their Fault By Steve Gwisdalla Originally Published March 6, 2025 Do you know anyone hurting right now? Someone who the world takes pleasure in constantly placing difficulty at their feet. Someone who feels the world is out to get them. Someone who can easily name the people who have wronged them over … Read more
Cougar Cubs in Michigan Spark Hopes for a Wild Comeback
Doug Marrin
With the first confirmed cougar cubs in over a century and a past sighting in Clinton Township, could Michigan’s big cats be making a quiet resurgence? For the first time in over a century, Michigan wildlife officials have confirmed the presence of cougar cubs in the wild, marking a historic milestone in the state’s conservation … Read more
big cats Michigan, Clinton Township cougar sighting, cougar cubs Michigan, Michigan cougars, Michigan wildlife
Chelsea’s RegenCen Offers Bioidentical Hormones for Healthier Aging
Doug Marrin
Dr. Gustav Lo explains how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy at RegenCen in Chelsea can help people regain energy, reduce health risks, and feel like themselves again. At RegenCen in Chelsea, Dr. Gustav Lo is at the forefront of regenerative and anti-aging medicine, advocating for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) as a tool to improve quality … Read more
anti-aging medicine, bioidentical hormones, Chelsea MI health, hormone replacement therapy, RegenCen
March 31 Deadline Looms as Washtenaw Fights to Prevent Foreclosures
Cynthia Reynolds
With the foreclosure redemption deadline fast approaching, Washtenaw County’s Treasurer’s Office is working to keep struggling homeowners in their homes. Property foreclosures. Tax liens. Evictions. Those words can send shivers down anyone’s spine. They remind us of portly bankers wearing three-piece suits and gold watch chains forcing poor families out of their homes. Historically, Washtenaw … Read more
foreclosure deadline, homeownership assistance, property tax help, tax delinquency, Washtenaw County
Croswell Opera House Delights Kids with The Cat in the Hat
Steven Sheldon
The Croswell Opera House brought laughter and excitement to young audiences with a lively performance of The Cat in the Hat, featuring energetic antics, colorful costumes, and a packed house of delighted children. Photo: (L-R): Joan Hiatt as the Cat, Mazyn Maybee as Girl, Zaerk Devlin as Boy are pictured in recent Croswell Opera House … Read more
Adrian MI entertainment, Croswell Opera House, family-friendly plays, kids theater Michigan, The Cat in the Hat
CPD Weekly Report, 3-18-25
Doug Marrin
Chelsea Police Department Weekly Press Summary Incident #: 25-817 Location: 1000 block of S. Main Street Date: March 12, 2025 Time: 1:47 pm INFORMATION: While on routine an officer was directed to respond to the 1000 block of S. Main Street to make contact with a complainant regarding a fraud complaint. The complainant, a local … Read more
How Tribble Painting Built a Business on Trust and Craftsmanship
Doug Marrin
From a summer job to a thriving company, Todd Tribble’s commitment to customer relationships and quality work has shaped the success of Tribble Painting. What started as a summer job painting a single house in Ann Arbor in 1985 has grown into one of the area’s most trusted painting companies. Todd Tribble, owner of Tribble … Read more
Ann Arbor small business, business growth story, customer service values, Michigan painters, Tribble Painting
FIA and St. James in Dexter Launch New Scholarship
STN Staff
Faith in Action partners with St. James’ Episcopal Church in Dexter to offer a scholarship helping individuals facing financial hardships achieve their educational goals. Community News Faith in Action is excited to announce a new partnership with St. James’ Episcopal Church in Dexter to provide the St. James’ Morton Cox Legacy Scholarship, an annual educational … Read more
Milan Moving Ahead with Hiring Process for Paddock Elementary Principal
Lonnie Huhman
Milan Area Schools has set a timeline to hire the next Paddock Elementary School Principal. This comes after the recent retirement announcement of longtime principal Sean DeSarbo. During his comments at the end o the March 12 school board meeting, MAS Superintendent Bryan Girbach said the district has received some good feedback and input from … Read more
Chelsea’s Annie Capps Honored with Prestigious Spirit of Folk Award
Doug Marrin
Chelsea musician recognized for her contributions to the folk music community Annie Capps, a pillar of the Michigan folk music scene, has been honored with the 2025 Spirit of Folk Award from Folk Alliance International (FAI). The award, presented by Fiona Prine, recognizes Capps’ dedication to preserving and promoting folk traditions while fostering community within … Read more
Annie Capps, Folk Alliance International, Michigan folk music, On The Tracks Chelsea, Spirit of Folk Award
In Plain English: Dexter Community Schools Bond Proposal
Traci Husse
Approving the ambitious plans will not cause any increase in taxes. In a special election scheduled for May 6th, Dexter Community Schools (DCS) will be asking voters in the school district to consider a bond proposal worth $241,865,000. While there is a lot to know before casting a vote, the most important is that approving … Read more
Scio Township Trustee Steps Down and New One Appointed
Lonnie Huhman
At its March 11 meeting, the Scio Township Board accepted the resignation of Board Trustee Judy Devooght Moenck. The board also appointed David Read to fill the position on the board. Devooght Moenck was elected to the position in the recent November general election. The Township Board accepted Moenck’s resignation by a vote of the … Read more
Dexter Memorial Day Parade Honors Tradition and Community
Doug Marrin
Join the Dexter Memorial Day Parade and be part of a cherished tradition that brings the community together to honor those who served. Memorial Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a tradition of remembrance that connects past generations with the present. The first Decoration Day, the forerunner to Memorial Day, was observed on May … Read more
community parades, Dexter Memorial Day Parade, Dexter Rotary Club, Memorial Day traditions, Michigan Memorial Day events
Milan Children’s Preschool: Celebrating 60 Years of Community and Learning
Cassidy Jenkins
For 60 years, Milan Children’s Preschool (MCP) has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in Milan, Michigan. Founded in the fall of 1964, MCP has grown from a small group of dedicated mothers teaching in church basements to a thriving cooperative preschool that continues to enrich young lives and empower families. A Passion for … Read more
How One Man’s Daring Prison Break Inspired Copycats in the Milan Prison
Doug Marrin
In the shadow of Michigan’s only successful aerial jailbreak, others plotted their own flights to freedom. Image: Newspaper clipping of a scene from the 1975 movie “Breakout,” where Charles Bronson breaks Robert Duvall out of a Mexican prison with a helicopter. The movie was shown in theaters a week before Dale Remling’s escape using a … Read more
daring prison break attempts, FBI foiled prison escape, helicopter prison breaks, Michigan jailbreak history, Milan prison escapes
Chelsea’s Community Social Worker Offers Walk-in Appointments
Matt Rosentreter
Chelsea hired its first community social worker, Emilee Fetters, in October of last year to help residents navigate the resources available to them. Fetters now offers open office hours for walk-in appointments multiple times a week at the Chelsea District Library and the Chelsea Senior Center. “Over the past few months, we’ve seen a significant … Read more
5 Healthy Towns Foundation Hosts Community Leadership Meeting
Matt Rosentreter
One Big Thing, a collaboration of the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation (5HF) and a variety of local organizations, held its 9th Community Leadership Meeting January 29. These meetings focus on community outreach projects, funding and grant opportunities, community physical and mental well-being and plans to further improve within the 5HF’s towns of Chelsea, Dexter, Grass … Read more
The Dreadbots Make Waves at Milford
STN Staff
Maximus Rogers and Peter Hilliard Dexter High School’s Robotics team 3656 (The Dreadbots) claimed first place with alliance partners 67 (HOT) and team 6344 (The Jiggawatts) at the Milford Robotics Competition hosted by FIRST. The Dreadbots’ robot, (lovingly named Kuzco by the team) competed in a water-themed escapade called Reefscape. The Dreadbots’ consistent performance qualified … Read more
Chelsea State Bank Announces Retirement of Board of Directors Chairman, John Mann
STN Staff
Chelsea State Bank has announced the retirement of John Mann, Chairman of the Board of Directors and former Chief Executive Officer/President of Chelsea State Bank. “John has devoted 37 years to Chelsea State Bank and has played an essential role in Chelsea and its neighboring communities,” stated Joanne Rau, President and CEO of Chelsea State … Read more
Chelsea Hosts Families for Friedreich’s Ataxia Foundation Fundraiser
STN Staff
The Families for Friedreich’s Ataxia Foundation is grateful for the incredible support from Chelsea and the surrounding communities. On March 1st, the foundation hosted its very first fundraiser at Revel Run in Chelsea, and it was an unforgettable evening! With delicious food, great music, and heartfelt generosity, the event was a huge success and made … Read more
Dexter Summer Festival T-Shirt Design Contest Opens
STN Staff
The Dexter Summer Festival is excited to announce its 2025 T-Shirt Design Contest, offering the community a chance to showcase their artistic talents and be part of this cherished annual event. Open to all ages, the contest invites creative minds to design the official festival t-shirt, which will be featured alongside the festival’s classic logo. … Read more
Milan Area Schools Narrows Down List of Superintendent Candidates
Lonnie Huhman
Milan Area Schools (MAS) didn’t have to go too far to find their candidate to be the next Superintendent. MAS Assistant Superintendent Ryan McMahon is now at the top of the list. The Milan Area Schools Board of Education voted unanimously at its March 12 meeting to authorize the Personnel and Leadership Committee to enter … Read more
Saline Blooms Bright with Community Gardening Magic
Sue Kelch
Discover how Saline’s gardening groups turn soil into community spirit, cultivating joy, friendship, and plenty of fresh produce. It’s March and we are now well past the groundhog seeing his shadow. The days are getting longer, the birds have returned, and we are dreaming of our flower and vegetable gardens. The Saline community is fortunate … Read more
community gardens, gardening tips, Saline community events, Saline gardening, Stone and Thistle Garden Club
Ruth Jennings: FIA’s 95-Year-Old Volunteer
Doug Marrin
Photo: Ruth Jennings surrounded by a few of her co-volunteers. Photo courtesy of FIA. By Doug Marrin with Lisa Carolin There is no age limit for volunteers at Faith in Action (FIA), the Chelsea-based nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and poverty in the community by providing financial assistance and vital resources. Chelsea resident Ruth … Read more
Saline Junior Theatre Celebrates 20 Years with Annie Jr
Steven Sheldon
The heartwarming show runs March 14-16 Photo: L-R: Stella Geragosian as Lily, Maddy Cummins as Rooster, Noelle Harnish as Miss Hannigan singing Easy Street. Photo by Steve Sheldon Saline Junior Theatre, a program through the Saline Community Education Department, celebrates its 20th year of providing kids with an opportunity to sing and act in Broadway … Read more
EMU’s Eagle Nutrition Services Unveils Advanced DEXA Machine
STN Staff
Brittany Mobley Eagle Nutrition Services at Eastern Michigan University recently unveiled a state-of-the-art Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) machine to strengthen academic instruction and community wellness. This enhanced X-Ray technology aligns with the university’s commitment to integrating innovative technology into student learning and health services. “We are incredibly grateful to the Provost’s Office for their support … Read more
Dexter Council Discusses Sale of City-Owned Property
Doug Marrin
Will Dexter voters approve selling prime city land at Ann Arbor Street and Meadow View Drive? Council prepares for a pivotal decision Dexter City Council is moving forward with discussions on the potential sale of city-owned property at the corner of Ann Arbor Street and Meadow View Drive, commonly referred to as the MAVD property. … Read more
Ann Arbor Street Dexter, City property appraisal, Dexter City Council, Dexter real estate, MAVD property sale
$1 million+ in Wilson Park upgrades move forward
Karen Lambert
After some initial pushback, the largest park in Milan City should see more than $1 million dollars in upgrades this fall, including new pickleball courts, a new basketball court, an additional playground, a zip line, permanent bathrooms and shaded seating near the existing splash pad.
Chelsea’s Earth Day Celebrations
STN Staff
Chelsea is welcoming Earth Day, April 22nd, with three events designed to be inspiring, creative and fun. An Earth Day Contest will kick off a month of activities by asking friends and neighbors to submit their best ideas for making Chelsea a more sustainable, earth-friendly city. Launched in Mid-March, the winning entries will be announced … Read more
Dexter Mill Creek Middle School Bands Shine at Recent Festivals
Lonnie Huhman
The Mill Creek Middle School bands have been busy achieving remarkable success at recent music festivals, showcasing the talent and dedication of the students. Citing the recent highlights, their Band Directors Andrew Damman and Rachel Wilson said: The Sun Times News (STN) connected with the Mill Creek Band Directors to learn more about this … Read more
Chelsea Ballet’s Don Quixote Performance Comes to CHS
STN Staff
Ballet Chelsea is excited to announce its upcoming performance of Don Quixote, hosted by Chelsea High School on April 12 and 13, 2025. This beloved ballet combines humor and romance and showcases the exquisite talents of Ballet Chelsea’s dancers. Tickets will be available on the Ballet Chelsea website, www.balletchelsea.org, starting March 10. Don Quixote is … Read more
Local Doctor Shares Insights on Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery at Chelsea Hospital
Doug Marrin
Dr. Joshua Startup explains how Chelsea Hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation unit helps traumatic brain injury patients recover with a team-based approach. Photo: Dr. Joshua Startup. Courtesy of Chelsea Hospital Dr. Joshua Startup, the Associate Inpatient Medical Director of Inpatient Rehabilitation at Chelsea Hospital, spoke with The Sun Times News to share his expertise on the treatment … Read more
Chelsea Hospital rehabilitation, Dr. Joshua Startup TBI, inpatient rehab for brain injuries, TBI treatment Michigan, traumatic brain injury recovery
Lyndon Township is looking at Zoning Text Amendment with Single-Family Homes
Lonnie Huhman
Lyndon Township has a proposed ordinance change before it pertaining to single‑family dwellings, whether constructed on a lot or a manufactured home. The change could come in not adding language, but rather by taking some words out. The zoning text amendment, if approved, would involve a section on Compatibility Determination when it comes to single-family dwellings. To learn … Read more
Dexter Council Supports New Tree Plantings Along Mill Creek
Doug Marrin
A plan to replace struggling trees in Mill Creek Park with resilient Carolina poplars aims to enhance biodiversity and withstand local wildlife pressures. At the Dexter City Council meeting on March 10, 2025, forest ecologist and Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited volunteer Terry Sharik presented a proposal to replace tree seedlings along Mill Creek. Sharik, a … Read more
Carolina poplars, Dexter Michigan, environmental conservation, Mill Creek Park, tree planting project
63rd Annual Ann Arbor Film Festival Set for March 25 – 30
Steven Sheldon
The 63rd Annual Ann Arbor Film Festival (AAFF), the fourth oldest festival in North America, is scheduled to premiere a wide variety of films March 25 – 30, 2025 at the historic Michigan Theatre in Ann Arbor. For the fifth year in a row, AAFF will pay filmmakers to show their films in competition. AAFF … Read more
Saline’s Leader of the Band Retires After 30 Years
Steven Sheldon
After three decades of shaping young musicians, Nate Lampman is set to retire, leaving behind a legacy of music, mentorship, and unforgettable performances. In 1981, Dan Fogelberg wrote the iconic song “Leader of the Band”. The lyrics included the line, “But his blood runs through my instrument and his song is in my soul. My … Read more
marching band, music education, Nate Lampman, retirement news, Saline High School
Mini Libraries Connecting People That Share a Love of Reading
Cassidy Jenkins
How Small Book Exchanges Are Inspiring a Love for Reading Photo: LittleFreeLibrary.org Mini libraries, also known as “Little Free Libraries,” have become a global phenomenon, transforming neighborhoods by encouraging the sharing of books. These small, community-run book exchanges offer an innovative way for people to share well-loved stories with one another—no library card required. What … Read more
UM’s Dr. Feranmi Okanlami is Breaking Barriers with Adaptive Sports
Doug Marrin
From wheelchair basketball to adaptive track & field, Michigan’s Adaptive Sports & Fitness Program is redefining what’s possible in inclusive athletics. Photos from UM’s Adaptive Sports & Fitness Wheelchair Basketball Game at Crisler Arena in February. Photo credits: Marc-Gregor Campredon / Leaders & Best At the University of Michigan, Dr. Feranmi Okanlami, known as “Dr. O,” … Read more
Adaptive sports fundraising, Giving Blue Day U-M, inclusive sports donations, support student-athletes, wheelchair track and field
First CWD-Positive Wild Deer Reported in Washtenaw County
Doug Marrin
Washtenaw County confirms its first case of chronic wasting disease in a wild deer—what it means for local hunters and wildlife Photo: Two healthy deer roam Watkins Lake State Park and Preserve in Washtenaw County. Photo from MDNR Washtenaw County has recorded its first case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a wild deer, making … Read more
chronic wasting disease, CWD testing Michigan, deer disease prevention, Michigan deer health, Washtenaw County wildlife
How Many National Park Employees has Michigan Lost?
Doug Marrin
Crowdsourced spreadsheet tracks the National Park Service February 14 firings nationwide Photo: Members of Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, presented members of the National Park Service in Isle Royale with a lifesaving award Sept. 13, 2016, for their efforts which led to the rescue of two girls earlier in the year. (U.S. Coast … Read more
crowdsourced spreadsheet, Michigan national parks job cuts, national park service firings, NPS layoffs 2025, park ranger terminations
Renovation Work on Saline Middle School is Getting Underway
Lonnie Huhman
The next big phase in bond work for Saline Area Schools will include the senior center, middle school classrooms and Liberty Athletic complex. The school district is inviting the public to commemorate the start of the projects on Thursday, March 20. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled that day at 3:30 p.m. In his recent community message, Saline … Read more
CPD Weekly Report, 3-11-25
Doug Marrin
Incident #: 25-718 Location: 1100 block of S. Main Street Date: March 3, 2025 Time: 2:38 pm INFORMATION: While on routine patrol, an officer was dispatched to the 1100 block of S. Main Street for the report of a counterfeit complaint. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with the complainant who stated that a customer … Read more
Saline Area Schools Moving Ahead with Athletic Review
Lonnie Huhman
In the next step in the process to conduct a third party review of the athletic department, Saline Area Schools (SAS) has narrowed down who they want to conduct the review. Looking at three proposals for this job, the Saline Board of Education picked one consulting firm to enter into negotiations with. Of the three, … Read more
Chelsea Girls’ Cruise Past Parma Western for District Title
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea girls’ basketball team earned its fourth D2 district title in five years Friday night with a 52-35 win over Parma Western. Parma Western came into the game ranked fifth in D2, but it was a strong defensive showing by the Bulldogs that shut down the Panthers as they pulled away for the imprssive … Read more
UPCOMING EVENTS
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