
Chelsea Area Friends for Recreation (CAFR) will be continuing its summer tradition of ‘Rec It Tuesdays,’ a weekly event for local residents to engage in, this year. CAFR will partner with Breathe Yoga Chelsea, Chelsea Children’s Co-op Preschool, Chelsea District Library (CDL), Chelsea School District Community Education and Recreation Department (CSD), Chelsea Pickleball, Dangerous Architects … Read more
Chelsea Area Friends and Recreation, outdoor recreation, Rec It Tuesdays, summer activities

From the Sea to Saline: Cindy Akans Brings Salt Springs Massage Home
Doug Marrin
Cindy Akans, a Saline High School graduate, brings her global massage experience back home. She opens Salt Springs Massage in downtown Saline, offering a range of therapeutic services for wellness and relaxation. After years of travel, adventure, and building a massage business, Cindy Akans has returned to her hometown of Saline, where her journey has … Read more
local massage therapy Saline, massage therapy Saline MI, Saline small business, therapeutic massage Saline, wellness services Saline

Chelsea Police Chief Warns of Home Improvement Scams in Warmer Weather
Doug Marrin
At the May 19, 2025, Chelsea City Council meeting, Police Chief Kevin Kazyak issued a seasonal warning about fraudulent home improvement schemes, particularly those involving driveway sealing. “I would like to take this opportunity to remind everybody that with the warmer weather, a lot of us are now doing home improvement projects, whether they’re doing … Read more
blacktop scams, Chelsea Michigan fraud, driveway sealing scams, driveway sealing tips, gypsy scams, home contractor fraud, home improvement scams, Kevin Kazyak, Michigan scam prevention, peddler permits

Saline Middle School 6th Grade Ads
Chuck Colby
Since 2021, The Sun Times News has proudly showcased the artistic talents of Saline Middle School students in our annual Student Ads Edition. Each year, local businesses sign on to be part of this creative collaboration, and students design custom ads just for them. Business owners then choose their favorite design to appear in print. … Read more

Celebrating Young Talent in Chelsea!
Chuck Colby
Since 2021, The Sun Times News has proudly showcased the creativity of Beach Middle School students through our annual Student Ads Edition. Each year, local businesses sign up to be featured, and multiple students submit original ad designs for each participating company. The business owners then choose their favorite ad to appear in print. This … Read more

Dexter Schools Seeks Input for Next Superintendent
STN Staff
Dexter Community Schools invites input from parents, staff, students, and community members in its search for a new superintendent. Survey open until June 9. Photo: Bates Administrative Building. Google Streetview The Dexter Community Schools Board of Education has launched the search for the district’s next superintendent and is inviting the entire community to help shape … Read more
Community Input, Dexter Community Schools, Dexter Schools, Michigan Leadership Institute, school board, superintendent search

Be Pro, Not Anti
Steve Gwisdalla
Be Pro, Not Anti By Steve Gwisdalla I am against Trump. I am against Kamela. I am against vaccines. I am against anyone against vaccines. I refuse to watch traditional news. I am against anyone who doesn’t watch the news and is therefore ignorant. I am a dog person. I am a cat person. I … Read more

Saline Community Education Kicks Off Summer Sports and Enrichment Camps in June
Doug Marrin
Saline Community Education is offering a wide variety of youth summer camps starting in June, including soccer, softball, basketball, cheer, yoga, and more. Find the perfect program for your child. Local students can look forward to an action-packed summer of learning, fitness, and fun as Saline Community Education launches a variety of youth sports camps … Read more
kids summer camps, Saline basketball camp, Saline cheer camp, Saline Community Education, Saline soccer camp, Saline softball camp, Saline summer camps, Saline summer programs, summer activities Saline Michigan, youth sports camps Saline MI

Beach Middle School Tackles Mental Health With Support
STN Staff
Community News As Mental Health Month is celebrated this May, Beach Middle School is taking the spotlight for its innovative approach to student wellness. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Project SUCCESS (Schools Using Coordinated Community Efforts to Strengthen Students), a Chelsea Hospital program, the Bulldog Wellness Warriors program is helping students navigate stress, emotions, … Read more
5 Healthy Towns, Beach Middle School, Bulldog Wellness Warriors, Chelsea Hospital, mental health, Michigan schools, Peer to Peer, Project SUCCESS, student wellness, youth mental health

Voicing Their Support for the Protection of Transgendered Students in Dexter
Lonnie Huhman
In response to legal advice and two Executive Orders, Dexter Community Schools (DCS) rescinded a policy for transgender students earlier this year. In response to that, a group of people showed up to the May 19 school board meeting seeking to have the board reinstate the District’s transgender protection policy. The group that showed up to the … Read more

Saline Superintendent Stephen Laatsch Retires After 27 Years of Service
Steven Sheldon
Saline Area Schools Superintendent Stephen Laatsch is retiring after 27 years in the district. From technology teacher to superintendent, Laatsch leaves a lasting legacy. Thirty-plus years as an educator, the last twenty-seven in Saline, Superintendent Stephen Laatsch is retiring. Mr. Laatsch first interviewed for a 5th-grade teaching position at Heritage School. He was hired instead … Read more
Saline Area Schools, Saline education, school leadership transition, Stephen Laatsch legacy, superintendent retirement

Dexter’s Dreadbots Power Through State and World Championships
STN Staff
Dexter High’s Dreadbots had their best robotics season yet, reaching the World Championships and placing in the top 10%. Read about their inspiring journey. By the Dreadbot Reporting Team Dexter’s 47 talented and hard-working robotics students had a blast at both their state and world competitions. 2025 was arguably the most successful season for Dexter … Read more
2025 robotics season, Dexter High School, Dreadbots, FIRST robotics, high school robotics, Michigan robotics, STEM, student robotics teams, World Championship

Dexter Rotary Club Backs Community Through Service and Events
Doug Marrin
Incoming Dexter Rotary President Steve Feinman outlines the club’s work, from funding the Memorial Day Parade to supporting youth programs, arts festivals, and local teams. Photo: Dexter Rotary Incoming President Steve Feinman on the Lucy Ann Lance Show on 1290 AM, WLBY. From organizing the Memorial Day Parade to supporting youth programs and arts festivals, … Read more
Dexter community engagement, Dexter events, Dexter Michigan, Dexter Rotary Club, nonprofit support Dexter, Rotary Club membership, Rotary service projects, Steve Feinman

Lodi Township Police Report, April 2025
Doug Marrin
In April 2025, Deputies responded to 177 calls for police service in Lodi Township, down from 219 the previous year, a 19% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Apr) are 630, down from 900 for the same period last year, a 30% decrease. Officers conducted 66 traffic stops, down from 108 last year. Fifteen citations were … Read more

Chelsea Soccer Advances to District Finals
Mike Williamson
One goal was enough for the Chelsea girls’ soccer team as the Bulldogs defeated Carleton-Airport 1-0 Tuesday night to advance to the D2 district finals. The Bulldog’s advance to Saturday’s district finals to face New Boston Huron at noon at New Boston Huron high school. Huron is ranked fourth in the state in D2 with … Read more

Saline Girls’ Lacrosse Advance to Regional Finals
Mike Williamson
The Saline girls’ lacrosse team cruised past Tecumseh 15-2 Tuesday night and advanced to the D2 regional finals Friday. The Hornets will take on Farmington Mercy at 5:30 PM at Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard for a chance to advance to the state semifinals next week. The two teams met earlier this month with the … Read more

Chelsea Baseball Advances to Saturday’s Districts
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea baseball team advanced to Saturday’s D2 district semifinals with a 6-0 win over Garden City Tuesday. The Bulldogs will play at 10:00 AM Saturday against SEC White rival Pinckney on the Pirates home field with the winner advancing to the finals against Caton Prep or Father Gabriel Richard. Chelsea battled past University of … Read more

Breaking Ground on The Pelham in Downtown Dexter
Lonnie Huhman
Signaling that a change is coming, the official groundbreaking for “The Pelham” was held on May 28, in downtown Dexter. This project will see condominium buildings built at this location where the A&W and railroad tunnel will be its neighbors. Bringing together a group of people, including the planners of the project and representatives from … Read more

Chelsea Community Foundation Awards $80,072 in Grants to Local Nonprofits
STN Staff
The Chelsea Community Foundation (CCF) has awarded $80,072 in grants to seven Chelsea nonprofits. Since its establishment in 1995, CCF has invested $2.2 million in local nonprofits through its endowment, which is funded by donations from businesses and individuals. This year’s recipients include: Chelsea School District—$5,000 to fund Project Geometry, a high school math elective … Read more
Chelsea Community Foundation, community grant funding, grants

Chelsea Police Report, April 2025
Doug Marrin
In April 2025, Officers responded to 429 calls for police service in the City of Chelsea, up from 309 the previous year, a 39% increase. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Apr) are 1,474, up from 1,353 for the same period last year, a 9% increase. Officer s conducted 127 traffic stops, up from 90 last year. … Read more

Major projects are about to break ground—but Milan leaders say the budget is still tight
Karen Lambert
With millions of dollars in grant-funded work set to begin, Milan city leaders say most residents won’t feel how tight the 2025-26 budget really is. “Our biggest challenge is to maintain the services we currently have with increasing prices and decreasing revenues,” City Manager Jim Lancaster said. Lancaster said he aimed for a lean budget, … Read more

Scio Township Police Report, April 2025
Doug Marrin
In April 2025, Deputies responded to 712 calls for police service in Scio Township, down from 769 the previous year, a 7% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Apr) are 2,604, down from 3,046 for the same period last year, a 15% decrease. Officers conducted 148 traffic stops, down from 346 last year. Seventy-four citations were … Read more

Mackinac Island: The Crown Jewel of the Great Lakes — History, Fun Facts, and Fudge
Sue Kelch
Discover the fascinating history and fun facts about Mackinac Island, the “Crown Jewel of the Great Lakes.” Learn why it’s spelled Mackinac and Mackinaw, its transformation into a national park, and why it’s the Fudge Capital of the World. If you are a Michigander you have likely visited Mackinac Island. Called the ‘Crown Jewel of … Read more
Crown Jewel of the Great Lakes, Mackinac Island, Mackinac Island Fudge, Mackinac Island fun facts, Mackinac Island National Park, Mackinac vs Mackinaw, Michigan state parks

CPD Weekly Report, May 18-24
Doug Marrin
Chelsea Police Department Weekly Press Summary Incident #: 25-1842 Location: 14000 block of E. Old US 12 Date: May 23, 2025 Time: 10:34 am INFORMATION: While on routine patrol, officers were dispatched to the 14000 block of E. Old US 12 for the report of a larceny from auto complaint. Upon arrival, the officer made … Read more

City of Dexter Police Report, April 2025
Doug Marrin
In April 2025, Deputies responded to 162 calls for police service in the City of Dexter, down from 281 the previous year, a 42% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Apr) are 709, down from 1,100 for the same period last year, a 36% decrease. Officers conducted 19 traffic stops, down from 144 last year. Four … Read more

Webster Township Police Report, April 2025
Doug Marrin
In April 2025, Deputies responded to 97 calls for police service in Webster Township, down from 109 the previous year, an 11% decrease. Total calls for 2025 (Jan-Apr) are 373, down from 451 for the same period last year, a 17% decrease. Officers conducted seven traffic stops, down from 29 last year. Three citations were … Read more

Immigration: A Community Conversation set to be held in Dexter Township
Lonnie Huhman
A community conversation about immigration is scheduled to be held on June 10, at Dexter Township Hall. The meeting, called, “Let’s Talk about Immigration – A Community Conversation,” is being hosted by Dexter Township Trustees Laura Sanders and Karen Nolte. The conversation will also have some speakers sharing insight, knowledge and experiences. They will include … Read more

Honoring the Fallen: Memorial Day in Milan
Karen Lambert
At a Memorial Day service and parade, the American Legion Post 268 reminded Milan residents of the ultimate price that was paid by many for their freedoms — and to whom they owed their ability to enjoy watermelon and time with loved ones Monday.

Dexter’s Memorial Day Parade 2025
Lonnie Huhman
Under sunny skies, the streets of downtown Dexter were lined with spectators enjoying the 2025 Memorial Day Parade.

Fatal Crash on I-94
Lonnie Huhman
A roll-over crash took the life of a Dexter woman early on the morning of May 24. The City of Ann Arbor Fire Department reported that at 5:21 a.m. on that Saturday they, along with Ann Arbor Police, Michigan State Police, HVA and the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the scene on westbound I-94, … Read more

Dexter Memorial Day Parade 2025 to Honor Service and Community
Doug Marrin
Dexter’s annual Memorial Day Parade, a cherished community event since 1945, will once again bring neighbors together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. Sponsored and organized by the Rotary Club of Dexter since 2013, the 2025 parade steps off at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 26. “It’s a … Read more
2025 Dexter parade, Dexter Memorial Day Parade, Jason Fettig, Memorial Day events Michigan, Rotary Club of Dexter, Steve Feinman, Steve West, U.S. Marine Band

Chelsea’s 100 Women Who Care Announces Nominees
STN Staff
The Chelsea chapter of 100 Women Who Care meets June 3 and hear presentations from three different non-profit organizations: Chelsea Music Boosters, Home of New Vision and Michigan Friends Center. The gathering will start at 6pm with a social hour and charcuterie and drinks. Presentations by the local non-profits will begin at 7pm. A representative … Read more

Saline’s Hornet Nation is in the Hall of Fame
Lonnie Huhman
11 years and 11 consecutive awards, and now the Hall of Fame, Saline High School’s “Hornet Nation” broadcast recently received a big honor for their work over the years. In his May 23 Superintendent’s Community Message, Saline Area Schools (SAS) Superintendent Stephen Laatsch said an award presentation was given to students involved in the Hornet … Read more
Hornet Nation, Michigan Interscholastic Press Association, Saline Area Schools, South & West Washtenaw Consortium

Milan to Host Inaugural Downtown Bus Trip
STN Staff
Milan Area Chamber will host a bus tour for those interested in a community trip to local venues June 14, beginning at 9am and returning at approximately 6pm. The bus tour will feature raffles and lunch (payment included in ticket price), along with stops at Riverwalk, Eastern Market and Mexican Village. Attendees must be 21+ … Read more

Rep. Schmaltz Supports Main Street Park Funding Through State Bill
STN Staff
State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz recently voted to fund a grant that will help Chelsea’s Main Street Park construction. The National Resources Trust Fund grant would provide $1,012,500 towards the park, and the city will provide a local match of about $463,000. “Main Street Park will be a wonderful place where kids, families, and seniors can … Read more
Chelsea Main Street Park project, Kathy Schmaltz, Main Street Park, state funding

Chelsea State Bank Donates $2,500 to the Dexter District Library
STN Staff
This week Chelsea State Bank presented the Dexter District Library with a check for $2500 for their Summer Reading Program. “Summer reading programs play an intricate role in ensuring that children and young adults keep their minds active in a meaningful and interactive way during summer break,” Joanne Rau, President and CEO of Chelsea State … Read more

Saline City Council Interviews Four Finalists for City Manager Role
Doug Marrin
The Saline City Council interviewed four finalists for city manager during a public meeting on May 21, 2025. Each candidate brought unique qualifications, leadership experience, and a shared commitment to public service. Photo: (Clockwise from upper left) Todd Saums, Jason Smith, Daniel Swallow, Michael Trembley. Images: Saline City video The Saline City Council held a … Read more
city manager interviews, Daniel Swallow, Jason Smith, Michael Tremblay, Saline City Council, Saline Michigan, Todd Saums

Is Fletcher Road still part of the Lima Township Hall plan?
Lonnie Huhman
As far as the future of Lima Township Hall is concerned, the property on S. Fletcher Road now appears to be out of the question. At their May 12 meeting, the Lima Township Board approved a motion to accept the building owner’s notice to cease negotiations on the purchase agreement with Lima Township, and to … Read more

Hudson Welling Named CDL Teen Volunteer of the Year
STN Staff
Photo: CDL Youth & Teen Librarian Stacey Comfort presents Hudson Welling with CDL’s 2024 Youth Service Group Volunteer of the Year. Courtesy CDL Chelsea District Library (CDL) is proud to announce Chelsea School District student, Hudson Welling, has been named CDL’s 2024 Youth Service Group (YSG) Volunteer of the Year. This award celebrates teens who … Read more

Saline City Council Approves Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
Matt Rosentreter
At its May 19 meeting, Saline City Council approved the upcoming fiscal year’s budget 4-3 after an amendment concerning funds for the Recreation Center failed to pass. The proposed and approved budget allotted $400,000 to the Saline Rec Center to assist with maintenance, upkeep and repairs to ongoing issues that have closed the building down … Read more

American Legion: A Century of Service and Community Leadership
Steven Sheldon
From veteran advocacy to family-friendly events, local American Legion posts in Dexter, Chelsea, Saline, and Milan remain vital to community life. Photo: Milan Post 235. Source: Google Streetview In remembrance of Memorial Day, The Sun Times News presents a feature of the American Legion. American Legion posts—including those in Dexter, Chelsea, Saline, and Milan—are much … Read more
American Legion, American Legion Riders, Chelsea MI, Dexter MI, family events, GI Bill, Legion events, local community support, Memorial Day, Michigan veterans, Milan MI, Saline MI, veterans organizations

Milan Area Schools Hires a New Elementary School Principal
Lonnie Huhman
Paddock Elementary School’s new Principal brings with her a range of skills and abilities. With the coming retirement of longtime principal Sean DeSarbo, the Milan Area Schools (MAS) Board of Education, after conducting an extensive hiring process, moved forward on May 20 and hired Brandi Ignagni as the new Principal. In introducing Ignagni to the … Read more
Milan Area Schools, New Principal, Paddock Elementary School

Discover Chelsea’s Past: Museum Open House During Sounds & Sights June 19
STN Staff
The Chelsea Area Historical Society & Museum (CAHS) is hosting a special Museum Open House on Thursday, June 19, in conjunction with Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights—one of the city’s most vibrant weekly summer events. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., visitors are invited to stop by the museum at 128 Jackson Street, across from … Read more
Chelsea Area Historical Society, Chelsea events, Chelsea History, historical museums Michigan, Museum Open House, Sounds & Sights Chelsea

Dexter Honors Fallen Heroes at 2025 Memorial Day Ceremony
Doug Marrin
Dexter will gather on May 26, 2025, for its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, featuring retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Jason K. Fettig as the keynote speaker. Photo: Fettig directing the Marine Band during annual memorial observances to John Philip Sousa at the Congressional Cemetery in 2007By Gunnery Sgt. Kristin Mergen, Flickr, Public Domain The community will gather … Read more
Col. Jason Fettig, Dexter Memorial Day Parade, Dexter Michigan, Memorial Day 2025, Michigan Memorial Day events, military veterans ceremony, US Marine Band

Chelsea Education Foundation Celebrates 35 Years of Impact, Launches $1 Million Endowment Campaign
STN Staff
On May 18, 2025, the Chelsea Education Foundation (CEF) celebrated 35 years of support for students and educators in the Chelsea School District. Since its founding, CEF has awarded over 1,130 scholarships to Chelsea School District graduating seniors and funded over 815 grants for teachers and community programs that benefit students from preschool through high … Read more

Dexter Community Schools Plot a Course to Pick the Next Superintendent
Lonnie Huhman
The Dexter Community Schools Board of Education said its “committed to finding the right candidate for Dexter’s next chapter.” With the announcement of DCS Superintendent Chris Timmis retiring in February of 2026 and the school board officially accepting this decision at its May 19 meeting, the school district is now looking ahead to filling this … Read more

International Students Seek Dexter Host Families
STN Staff
Three international students who have been accepted to Dexter High School for the 2025-26 school year are looking for host families through Educatius. All three will begin the 11th grade in the fall. Rafaela from Brazil Rafaela enjoys playing sports and staying active, especially bodybuilding and footvolley—a similar sport to volleyball, but played with the … Read more

Saline Parks & Recreation Recognizes IMI for Volunteer Work
STN Staff
Community News For the third year in a row, IMI Industrial Automation has volunteered their time to help the Saline Recreation beautify Tefft Park. Saline Parks and Recreation (SPR) Staff, SPR volunteer Patty Seyfarth, Parks Commissioner Tim Dellot and IMI Staff Josh Jeffers, Mike Carlton and Brian Snyder coordinated over 30 dedicated IMI staff members … Read more
community service, IMI, Josh Jeffers, park cleanup, Saline MI, Saline Parks and Recreation, summer beautification, Sunshine Lambert, Tefft Park, volunteer work

Four Pets Escaping the Vet in Purple Rose Theatre’s Summer Comedy
STN Staff
The Purple Rose Theatre Company has announced the final production of their 34th season, “Bert & Trixie Visit the Vet” a World Premiere comedy written by Michigan native Matt Letscher. Tickets are on sale now. Four pets in a veterinarian’s waiting room plan an escape when they suspect one of them is in danger. This … Read more
arts and entertainment, Purple Rose Theatre, Purple Rose Theatre Company

Chelsea High School Hosts First-Ever Wellness Day with Chelsea Hospital’s Project SUCCESS
STN Staff
Community News In partnership with Chelsea Hospital’s Project SUCCESS (Schools Using Coordinated Community Efforts to Strengthen Students), Chelsea High School hosted its first-ever Wellness Day — a schoolwide celebration of mental health, self-care, and community connection. Led by Project SUCCESS Coordinator Kristen Chandler and Mental Health Coordinator Marie Larson, the event brought together 26 community … Read more
988 hotline, Chelsea High School, Chelsea Hospital, community collaboration, mental health resources, Michigan schools, Project SUCCESS, school mental health programs, SRSLY Chelsea, student mental health, Wellness Day, youth wellness

Mitchell Funeral Home Enters Third Generation of Service in Chelsea
Doug Marrin
Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, Michigan, celebrates 45 years under the Mitchell family and welcomes a third generation. Discover how their legacy of compassion and community continues after 170 years. Photo: Three generations of Mitchell funeral directors: (L-R) Johnny Mitchell, AJ Mitchell, John Mitchell Sr., and Michael Mitchell. John Sr. holds his certificate recognizing 60 … Read more
AJ Mitchell, Chelsea MI history, Chelsea Michigan, family-owned funeral home, green burials Michigan, John Mitchell Sr., Mitchell Funeral Home, oldest business Chelsea, Staffan-Mitchell, third generation funeral director

Security Upgrades Being Made at Sylvan Township’s Water Treatment Plant and Township Hall
Lonnie Huhman
With last year’s break-in at the water treatment plant and the damaged caused in mind, Sylvan Township has decided to move forward on a Security System Installation/Upgrade at the Water Treatment Plant and Township Hall. At its May 13 meeting, the township board moved ahead with approving a recommendation to work with the Guardian Alarm … Read more

Parade Fees Will Help Milan Cover Public Safety, Public Works Costs
Karen Lambert
Parades are no longer free in Milan City – and organizers are starting to feel the cost. As of Jan. 1, 2025, a new city policy imposes fees ranging from $0 to $800 for parade permits. The fees are part of a broader special event policy approved by the city council last year. In addition … Read more
Events, fees, Memorial Day, Milan City, Parade, police burnout

Memorial Day Began with People Recently Freed from Enslavement
Doug Marrin
The earliest recorded Memorial Day Ceremony was held by freed African Americans Photo: A woman visits the grave of a fallen loved one in Upstate New York on Decoration Day. (Library of Congress) Immediately after the end of the Civil War, people recently freed from enslavement in Charleston, SC, honored fallen Union soldiers, marking the … Read more
54th Massachusetts, African American history, Charleston SC 1865, Civil War remembrance, Decoration Day origins, first Memorial Day, Grand Army of the Republic, Memorial Day history, Union soldiers, Washington Race Course

PHOTOS: Athletes Shine at Special Olympics Swim Meet in Milan
STN Staff
Photos by Stephen Cook On May 19, 2025, the Special Olympics Michigan Washtenaw County Area 20 hosted its regional swim meet in Milan, Michigan. The event brought together athletes from across the county to compete in various swimming events, showcasing their dedication and sportsmanship. Area 20, representing Washtenaw County, is part of the Southeast Region … Read more
2025 sports events, adaptive athletics, Area 20, inclusive sports, local community events, Milan Michigan, Special Olympics, Special Olympics Michigan, swim meet, washtenaw county events

Unique, Handcrafted Woodworking is happening at Renovatio Woodworks
Lonnie Huhman
Renovatio is a Latin word that means rebirth. That’s what’s happening inside the woodshop off of Jackson Road in Lima Township, where Renovatio Woodworks is located. It’s there that Matthew Millar, a woodworking artisan, is creating handcrafted rustic furniture and unique home decor from vintage wood, metal and found treasures. Millar is a true practitioner of repurposing and … Read more

Saline City Council Discusses Accusations of Hiring Bias
Matt Rosentreter
At its May 19 meeting Saline City Council voted on a motion to request the hiring committee in charge of filling the recently vacated city manager position report to the council and address an accusation of bias in the interviewing and hiring process. Councilmember Dean Girbach brought this motion forward over concerns regarding Acting Manager … Read more
Saline City Council, saline city manager, saline city manager finalists, saline city manger position

The Billion-Year-Old Crack That Shaped Lake Superior
Doug Marrin
From Lake of the Clouds to Isle Royale, discover how a failed split in Earth’s crust created some of Michigan’s most iconic landscapes. Photo: The richly colored sandstone cliffs and sculpted archways of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore reveal layers of sediment laid down as ancient inland seas filled the Midcontinent Rift basin. Photo by Alexeys … Read more
ancient geology Michigan, Anishinaabe legends, Gichi-Gami, isle royale, Keweenaw Peninsula, Lake Superior geology, Michigan Upper Peninsula, Midcontinent Rift, Mishipeshu, Pictured Rocks, Porcupine Mountains, volcanic Michigan

Scio Township Firefighters Help Save a Life
Lonnie Huhman
The actions of four Scio Township firefighters in early February made a huge difference in one person’s life. What they did that day went a long way in saving the life of a person who was in dire need after a crashing his vehicle. Because of this, these firefighters were recently recognized for their honorable … Read more

As City Seeks More Feedback, Early Survey Data Highlights Milan’s Strengths, Weaknesses
Karen Lambert
Milan City’s master plan survey is still open—but not for long. Residents have through May 31 to weigh in before results are presented to the council. After that time, City Manager Jim Lancaster said the community will have additional chances to provide input during regular public comment periods, which could lead to more pointed surveys … Read more

History Comes Alive at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Dexter
Doug Marrin
Highlights from the Forest Lawn Cemetery Walking Tour Photos by Thomas Morris On Saturday, May 18, Forest Lawn Cemetery became a living stage of Dexter’s past as costumed interpreters brought the stories of the town’s most prominent former residents to life during a free walking tour. Presented by the Dexter District Library, Dexter Area Historical … Read more
calvin turner fillmore, dexter area historical society, Dexter District Library, Dexter Michigan history, dr. william c. wylie, forest lawn cemetery, historical reenactment, local history events, michigan historical tours, royal samuel copeland

Dexter Soccer Rolls Through SEC Red Round Robin
Mike Williamson
The Dexter girls’ soccer team finished 3-0 in the SEC Red round robin and finished 6-4 in the conference. After taking down Bedford in the round robin opener last week, Dexter rolled to two more wins this week. Dexter defeated Ypsilanti Lincoln 9-0 in a game that ended at halftime Tuesday. Anna Marie Myint had … Read more

Dexter Tennis Qualifies for D2 State Finals
Mike Williamson
The Dexter girls’ tennis team is heading to the D2 state finals for the fifth straight year after a second-place finish at the regional hosted by the Dreadnaughts. Dexter finished with 19 points to tie South Lyon for the second spot in the region. D2 top-ranked Farmington Hills Mercy easily claimed the regional title with … Read more

Free Family Films Return to the Michigan Theater This Summer
Drew Saunders
The Michigan Theater’s Family Friendly Series offers free Sunday matinees and cherished classics for a new generation Kids watch classic Disney movies and superhero shows on phones and iPads every single day; but now imagine that same kid watching that exact same movie, on a screen 100 times as big. That is the difference that … Read more
Ann Arbor events, family-friendly entertainment, free family movies, kids events Ann Arbor, Marquee Arts, Michigan Theater, Shrek, Studio Ghibli Ann Arbor, summer movies 2025, Toy Story 30th anniversary

CHS Quiz Bowl Team to Compete in National Tournament
STN Staff
With its championship win at the Southeast Michigan Tri-County League, the quiz bowl team from Chelsea High School will advance to the national stage on May 23 in Atlanta, GA, when the team will represent their school in a 336-team national competition. Quiz bowl is a competitive, academic, interscholastic activity for teams of four students. … Read more

“1,000 Flowers Could Bloom” Art Exhibit in Chelsea Highlights St. Louis Center’s Mission
Doug Marrin
Community artwork on display at Chelsea District Library showcases diversity while supporting expanded services for adults with disabilities. The Chelsea District Library’s Reading Garden was in full bloom on Saturday, May 17, as community members gathered for the “1,000 Flowers Could Bloom” art reception—a vibrant celebration of identity, creativity, and inclusion. The open house marked … Read more
art exhibit, Chelsea Community Foundation, Chelsea District Library, clay flowers, community event, inclusive art, intellectual and developmental disabilities, Kathy Schmaltz, memory care, Snoezelen therapy, St. Louis Center

Dexter District Library Releases Reading Program and Summer Events Calendar
STN Staff
The Dexter District Library’s Summer Reading Program will be June 16 – August 1. During the summer, children of all ages are encouraged to set and achieve goals and read for fun while school is out. The theme this summer will be “Color Our World.” The library’s summer events kick off on June 16 when … Read more
Dexter District Library, summer activities, Summer Reading Program

The Encore Musical Theatre Company Presents West Side Story
STN Staff
For a limited five-week run from June 5 – July 6, The Encore Musical Theatre Company will present West Side Story, the groundbreaking Broadway musical inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet on The Encore’s Maas Main Stage. With music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Arthur Laurents, based on a … Read more

Chelsea Weekly Police Report, May 12-18
Doug Marrin
Incident #: 25-1786 Location: 20000 Block of W. Old US 12 Date: May 18. 2025 Time: 6:14 am INFORMATION: While on routine patrol, officers responded to the area of the 20000 block of W. Old US 12 for the report of a vehicle that had reportedly been involved in a crash and blocking the westbound … Read more

Saline Weekly Police Report, May 12–19
STN Staff
No injuries in majority of reported vehicle accidents; one assault leads to arrest The Saline Police Department responded to a series of incidents from May 12 to May 19, 2025, including multiple traffic accidents, an arrest for assault, and a reported theft. The Saline Police Department responded to a range of incidents during the week … Read more

City of Saline Selects Finalists for its Next City Manager
STN Staff
The finalists will participate in an on-site interview and community engagement activities at Saline City Hall on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. On May 12, 2025 the City Manager Hiring Committee selected finalists to be invited to interview for the position of City Manager. The discussion was facilitated by April Lynch, Recruitment Lead with Double Haul … Read more

Historic Marker Recognizes Pioneer Cemetery—and the Stories That Shaped a Nation
Karen Lambert
Growing up, Chelsea resident Ann Sweet spent hours in the Rice Cemetery in Milan Township with her grandmother Nellie. They visited ancestors’ graves, planted flowers, cleaned up after funerals and picked wild asparagus. From when she was six or seven her grandmother told her stories of times past. Sweet remembers those tales when she walks … Read more
Ann Sweet, Memorial Day, Michigan Historical Marker, Rice Cemetery

Chelsea Golfers Close in on SEC White Title
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea boys’ golf team won three of four matches last week and moved closer to another SEC White title. The Bulldogs hold an eight point lead over Tecumseh heading in to the SEC Finals at Tecumseh Monday. Chelsea opened the week by shooting a round of 161 to beat out Pinckney with 181 and … Read more

Chelsea Softball Nearing SEC White Title
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea softball team moved one step closer to another SEC White title with a 10-0 win over Ann Arbor Skyline Wednesday. The Bulldogs hold a half game lead over Pinckney with one game remaining in league play. Avery Lay struck out 12 and allowed just three hits in the win over the Eagles. Chelsea … Read more

Chelsea Girls Second, Boys Fifth at D2 Track Regionals
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea track teams hosted the D2 track and field regionals Thursday and both had strong finishes with the girls finishing second and the boys fifth in the final standings. The girls finished with 106 points, just behind SEC rival Pinckney with 116. Chelsea qualified six individuals in seven events and all four relays for … Read more

Chelsea Soccer Clinches Share of SEC White Title
Mike Williamson
The Chelsea soccer team claimed a share of the SEC White title with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Ypsilanti Wednesday. The Bulldogs entered the game tied with Adrian for the top spot and needed a win to secure at least a share of the title. Chelsea and Ypsilanti were locked in a scoreless deadlock heading … Read more

State Representatives Visit St. Louis Center to Discuss Allocation Request
STN Staff
Chelsea’s St. Louis Center welcomed State of Michigan House Representatives Kathy Schmaltz (46th District) and Carrie Rheingans (47th District) to its campus on April 28. They were joined by members of St. Louis Center’s staff, Community Advisor Council members, and CEO Fr. Satheesh Alphonse to discuss the state allocation request that was recently submitted. Juanita … Read more
Michigan House of Representatives, Saint Louis Center, state funding

Dexter PE Teacher Resigns After Email Policy Investigation
Doug Marrin
Katherine Kuzma resigned from Dexter Community Schools following an investigation into her emails. Although school policy was violated, the district found no evidence of inappropriate conduct. Photo courtesy of Katherine Kuzma Katherine Kuzma, a physical education teacher at Mill Creek Middle School, resigned from her position on April 22. Dexter Community Schools placed her under … Read more
Dexter Community Schools, email policy, Katherine Kuzma, Michigan education, Mill Creek Middle School, PE teacher, school investigation, teacher resignation

From Vietnam to Dexter: An Escape from War-torn South Vietnam
Lonnie Huhman
A truly harrowing escape from South Vietnam as communist forces from the North invaded southward in 1975. The long Vietnam War reached a big turning point that spring with the remaining American forces leaving the country after years of battle while their South Vietnamese counterparts were also looking for ways out from what they believed … Read more

Emagine Theatres Offers $3 Summer Kids Movies
STN Staff
This summer Emagine Theatres will once again be offering Summer Kids Movie Series where tickets are only $3 per person and Magic Pack concessions are $5. Each week guests of all ages are welcome to revisit a different blockbuster animated movie rated for the whole family. WHEN Films, Showtimes, and On-Sale Dates are subject to … Read more