Inside the Newsroom @ Chelsea, Dexter

The great chicken debate

2012-02-08T10:27:00.000-08:00

Is it enough to have farm fresh eggs at your disposal? Should people in a small yard be allowed to own chickens? Is a chicken a pet?

While off the cuff, the issue of owning a chicken might not seem like a big deal, it's one that many municipalities have been wrestling with considering the rise of the local food movement.

I recently delved into this topic for a story in this week's Standard after a family was told to get rid of their chickens. They kept the five hens in their backyard, just a few blocks off Main Street, despite the fact that the city bans them – per a city ordinance – in yards less than 4 acres in size.

Proponents of keeping backyard chickens, including Chelsea Backyard Chickens, say that chickens are clean, quiet and much like having a pet dog or cat. The added bonus is that, unlike a house cat, families get fresh eggs from a chicken whose diet they can control.

The group has met with Chelsea City Council for two work sessions after member Chris Felesky spoke during a public comment session several months ago.

In that time, various Council members have discussed what potential problems could come with legalizing backyard chickens – including neighbor complaints and what the justification for allowing chickens might be versus not allowing other animals. In addition, Councilmember Rod Anderson wondered whether property values would be affected and what evidence might be available.

In addition there is the argument that fresh, grain-fed, range-free chicken eggs are readily available in Chelsea as it's in an agricultural area.

So, what do you think? How would Chelsea be affected by legalized backyard chickens?

Mudhens baseball is exciting

2011-07-11T12:29:00.001-07:00

People may think that the Detroit Tigers may be the only baseball team in town. Or maybe even the only tea worth spending any money on at all.
This couldn’t be more from the truth. The Toledo Mudhens have been around for years and it is just a short drive down the freeway to go and watch some up and coming ball players. Maybe you will even be fortunate like I was and get to see a player like Saline resident and Detroit Tiger Brandon Inge doing some rehab to get back to the majors.
Inge had been sick with mononucleosis and was down in Toledo last week when I was able to watch the Tigers’ AAA team play the Columbus Clippers. The game itself was a lot different than a professional game but I will say it is nice once in awhile to see that difference and get watch what these guys go through in order to make it to the majors.
They aren’t making a lot of money and I will bet you that Inge’s salary for one year is way more that what the entire Mudhen team makes. That being said the level of play at Toledo is nowhere near what you get at Detroit.
But, it is cheaper to go to Toledo to watch a game and you will get a seat that is probably better than what you will see with the parent club in Detroit.
They do all kinds of crazy promotions and things between the innings. One of my favorite has to do with picking a certain player from the other team and making them the goat of the game. If that player strikes out during the game a certain section gets free ice cream.
I couldn’t really tell if that pressure wore on the opposing batter but I will say he didn’t strike out at all. In fact, it appeared he had better game. Maybe when they play Columbus again they should pick someone different who may be more likely to strikeout.
Some of the players on the team like Fu-Te Ni and Clete Thomas have been up in the majors before and sent back down. Others like Andy Dirks and Brennan Boesch are up with the Tigers and may stay for awhile.
One player, Max St. Pierre has been with Toledo for years and never really gotten a chance at the majors. He is still holding onto that dream of getting up to the “Bigs” and having fun getting paid for doing what he loves. Although if he got into the majors he would get paid quite a lot more money.
His debut for the Tigers on Sept. 4th of last year made him the oldest Tiger position player to make the MLB since Mike Roarke in 1961. He got a hit during his first start.
The game is fun at any time but the minors tend to make a few more mistakes than the majors. You also get to see more pitchers. The Mudhens threw about five pitchers on the night I went.
I was also fortunate to see a fireworks show, which was fun I will admit but the most interesting part of the entire night was just watching the people and enjoying a very laid back atmosphere.
I would say run out and get season tickets buy season tickets but it might be nice for a change of pace or even a couple times a year. The game is fun and every player has a different story.
Some will rise to the top and end up in the majors while others may reach Toledo and that will be the highest level they ever play. Whatever the case if it comes to Detroit they will more than likely have to come from farm team down in Toledo.
So grab you mitt and put on your baseball hat for an enjoyable time down in the minors.
Check out the Mudhens Web Site at www.toledomudhens.com.
Dave Merchant is a staff writer for Heritage West Newspapers and can be reached at dmerchant@heritage.com.

A thank you to a Good Samaritan

2011-03-08T13:56:00.001-08:00

On Saturday evening, I attended the Chelsea Rotary's Cash Bash, completely unaware of two things: how much snow would fall in western Washtenaw and that my driver's side wiper would fall off at 9:30 p.m. that night in the Silver Maples' parking lot.

When I left the bash, I went to wipe off the inches of snow off my windshield, lifting up the wiper arms to get under them, when my wiper flew off its housing.

Frantic, I searched for the pin, which held the blade to the arm -- but it was long gone.

Minutes later, I ran back into Silver Maples, where quite a few people were still enjoying the Rotary event.

After asking a few people if they could help me out, one guy went straight to someone named Dennis.

Dennis took two safety pins, a coated paper clip and a rubber band and made magic. He pinned, twisted and fastened the wiper back to the arm so I could safely make the long drive home on I-94.

You see, at this point Saturday night, the snow was still falling so hard that it would have been impossible to drive without a wiper, and I currently live 50 minutes away on a good day. Saturday night, it took me an hour and a half.

So -- Dennis, thank you for your ingenuity and kindness. And if anyone knows Dennis, let me know, so I can, at the very least, send him a thank you card.

Marriage: a dying institution?

2011-02-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

I'm piggybacking on a blog from on of our sister publications, The News-Herald. A blog from their staff writer, Jim Kasuba, asks the question, "Are we likely to be attending many 40th and 50th wedding anniversaries in the future or is that a thing of the past?"

Speaking as a never-been-married, 27-year-old female, yes; it is most definitely a thing of the past.

I know, sounds rather brash of me to make such a quick decision, right? But consider this: most of my generation is flailing at even making it on their own. A New York Times magazine article last year even essentially stated that we are "slackers" when really, most of the time, we can't afford the cost of living, even while gainfully employed. We are the new depression-era generation as far as I'm concerned.

With inflation rates rising, college loans looming and the general state of the economy, most of us 20-somethings, and indeed 30-somethings, have a lot more important things to worry about than "true love." No health insurance, poor job prospects and in debt up to our eyeballs due to college ... the anxiety can really keep you up at night. Being lonely can really take a backseat to these issues.

Sorry, Shakespeare and other classic romance storytellers, but fate and whoever may soulmate might be will have to wait until I have my life in order.

It's very sweet to think that past generations would marry before they had their career going or before they had their own home, but honestly, who can afford taking a chance anymore? I've seen a few others around my age marry, only to see them marry into debt, lose their livelihood or divorce in five years.

Yes, I'm a pessimist, but really, isn't it a more realistic, logical approach to wait for marriage or, better yet, not marry at all?

And for the record, I hate that NYT magazine article. It has more unfair generalizations than I can count.

Be careful out there

2011-02-03T08:51:00.001-08:00

Early today, on the way into work, I watched a car not 15 feet in front of me wipe out on I-94. This was after the freeway had been plowed and salted.

The driver was probably going about 60 miles per hour in the fast lane, where there were only slight bits of sludge here and there. Thankfully, there was no guard rail to stop him from spinning out and landing into the middle of the median separating west and east.

I know we all think our cars are wonderful in the snow, and we might have the best tires and the best of intentions and driving skills, but please, be careful out there.

Chelsea Milling Co. now has a 21st century tour

2011-02-02T11:06:00.000-08:00

When I recently toured the new facilities of the Chelsea Milling Company, not only was I surprised, but I also was briefly reminded of how far we've come in terms of technology and business.

The company, known for its Jiffy Mix brand, has been in operation for four generations of the Holmes family, but in the past year, they've made a host of improvements.

Aside from adding six new gigantic silos and a brand new research and development building, the company also completely revamped its public tour.

My photographer and I began our tour with a informative, entertaining five-minute video in a small theater room, built to seat more than 30 tourists.

Considering my unfamiliarity with the company, I was still rather impressed with its slick video presentation, which included a computer-generated cartoon Jiffy Mix box named Corny. Without giving away all the details, the video gives a complete synopsis of how Jiffy Mix is made, starting from the very beginning at local farmlands.

However, my photographer was blown away.

Having grown up in Chelsea, he said he had taken the tour countless times before the updates. He said before the renovation in late 2010, the tour began with a slideshow presentation (literally), where a tour guide would ramble off facts and tidbits about the company's production process. The phrase "out of date" probably didn't cover it.

As we toured the factory and research and development building, President and CEO Howdy Holmes told us he knew his company needed "more science" to keep up with competitors and stay viable.

Holmes and the employees of Chelsea Milling have accomplished that and more. The new tour is entertaining and educational for both children and adults. Perhaps what's most impressive is that a company with such strong family roots and history is willing to adapt and change with the technology of today.

If you haven't made it out to see the new tour, I would highly recommend seeing it the first chance you get.

State of the Union, a moment of optimism

2011-01-25T18:49:00.001-08:00

While I'm sure some Americans flip through the channels to navigate away from the annual State of the Union speech, for any self-respecting journalist, it's must-see TV (or radio depending on your schedule.)

But for those of us who did watch, I'm wondering if anyone else felt America might be getting a tad more bipartisan -- if only for a moment.

Sure, we have the tea party and we all have our arguments, but with the recent attempted assassination of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, politicians are, at the very least, watching their Ps and Qs.

In fact, lawmakers made the occasion into what is being referred to as a "bipartisan date night," where one politician must pair up with another of the opposite party. Wonder where this leaves Independents?

While this first date certainly won't lead to marriage or anything serious like agreeing on terms for health care, it certainly is a start.

And hey, if nothing else, I didn't hear anyone shout, "You lie!"

Retail forcast getting better

2011-01-04T06:42:00.001-08:00

The economy might not be the best right now but people in Michigan did spend money over the Christmas Holiday. People need to realize how important it is to spend money locally and keep those dollars in their community.
This does a couple different things. First it helps to keep companies locally from going out of business and it also keeps jobs in the area. In keeping those jobs here it keeps tax dollars and money in your community rather than sending it out of town.
By no means does this mean to not shop outside the community but keep in mind what stimulating your community can do.
The Village of Dexter had five important and well attended public hearings at the planning commission on Monday. A lot of good information was given and the public asked some good questions.
The commission voted to put the new items to the Village Council. You can read about this at www.heritage.com or in the print version of the Dexter Thursday.
Happy blogging and leave a comment if you have one.

Holidays are a time for praise

2010-12-21T13:02:00.000-08:00

Ever gone shopping during the holidays and gotten bad service at the counter? Next time you get to the counter and you see the clerk having a bad day or maybe a hard time with the previous person in line take time out and think.
How would I act in a situation like that and what can I do to make that person's day go a little better?
I have worked in the public for many years. I have worked in retail and currently have been at the same big box store for the past 14 years. Prior to that I have worked retail in several different aspects.
I will tell you as a journalist dealing with people can be difficult but not quite as cumbersome. I talk to a lot of people on the phone or by email. I am not given that luxury at my other job. It is face-to-face and a lot of the people are not very happy.
Next time you go to the store remember that person behind the counter has a life outside the store. Smile at them. Make a little small talk and believe me it will make their life a little easier and you may even make a new friend. Praise goes a long way.
Dave Merchant is a staff writer for the Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader and can be reached at 734-429-7380 or dmerchant@heritage.com.

Joy of the holidays

2010-12-14T08:59:00.001-08:00

The holidays are often a time for joy and fun. Many people celebrate them in totally different ways.
One of the greatest things about living in the United States is the ability to celebrate how you like and not be frowned upon or persecuted for one’s beliefs.
I think people take that freedom for granted in too many ways. They don’t always look at things in such a positive manner. Freedom of religion is one of the best freedoms we as Americans can have.
Whether people believe we should have a nativity set up at City Hall or a Christmas display in the park. I think those things bring people together. They unite communities and allow people to have similar beliefs and bonds with one another.
Granted, not all religions celebrate the birth of Christ or even give gifts for Christmas, but one must realize how big of an event the holiday has become.
The money that a lot of businesses and stores make during the holiday helps them make it through the slower periods in January and February. People celebrate with gifts, visiting relatives and in many areas just being with family.
What can be better than spending time with the people you love the most? This time of year really means so much to so many different people.
Whether someone is going to church to pray, going to grandmother’s house for supper or dessert or spending time with a friend, it is all equally important. In the end it is about doing what makes you happy and being with the people you love.
It sounds so simple and it isn’t always that easy, but being with the one’s you love is really what makes this time of the year one of the best.
I, for one, will be having an interesting time considering that my oldest child will be a teen-ager seven days before Christmas. This wouldn’t be so bad except she is now only one inch shorter than me and I really feel she is not quite done growing.
About 13 years ago almost to the day I wrote a column about her being born and what a joy it was to have a baby for Christmas. It was one of the proudest accomplishments of my life. Getting married and having a baby are two of the best things in my life. The next is the birth of my son a few years later.
The funny thing was I always said I wanted a daughter first and a boy later. Now as she is getting older I am not so sure that was the best thing to wish for.
It really seems like the time has flown by for my family and I. Over the 13 years I have covered so many events and met so many different people. Being in Dexter and Chelsea now and covering those communities really sheds light on what this all means to me.
People are very interesting to me and covering different aspects of the news and sports worlds is also interesting. I love hearing the different ideas and meeting the different types of people in this job. Everyone has a voice and it is part of my job to explain those voices.
Dave Merchant is a staff writer for the Dexter Leader and Chelsea Standard and can be reached at 734-429-7380 or dmerchant@heritage.com

Village of Dexter needs LaFontaine Chevy

2010-12-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

The Village of Dexter may want to make sure the expansion of LaFontaine Chevrolet be approved. The planning commission allowed the plans to go through to the Village Council yesterday. The problem facing the deal is the timeline for General Motors. There have been several changes already made to the original plans.
Matt LaFontaine, owner of dealership, said they are facing a deadline and he would like the deal done soon as possible. The people representing LaFontaine at the planning commission on Monday said they hope to get this done as soon as possible.
I just don't want to see the deal go down the drain and the Village and the residents lose out on what I see as a win-win deal.
It may be on the Council's agenda for this Monday or it may be at the next meeting in December. Keep in touch with the Dexter Leader or this blog for more info.

-30- Time to say goodbye

2010-12-03T08:17:00.000-08:00

Years ago, when the first press dispatches from the front lines of the Civil War were sent across telegraph, the reporter would end their correspondence with the symbol, -30-. Though no one knows what this symbol means, or how it originated, it has since become within the journalism profession, a tradition to label your farewell piece as the -30- column. Explanations for this vary, but the one that I most like equate the number with a sign of completion.

I’ve written three –30- columns in my short career in journalism, and each of them have proven significantly harder to write (this being no exception). Indeed, by the time you read this column, I would have already handed off the reins of the Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader to a new copy editor. After three and a half years with Heritage Newspapers, I recently accepted a new position as editor for an online news website covering the community of Dexter.

It seems like yesterday I was moving into my office on the second floor of the Comerica Bank building in Manchester Village ready to tackle the unsuspecting community. There I was, a young, single, 25-year-old from Texas almost fresh out of college in charge of my very own newspaper. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared out of mind. In fact, I fondly recall (after being handed stack after stack of paperwork from my boss and then being asked to film my welcome video), sitting in my office thinking, “What the hell did I commit myself too?” But, by that point, it was too late. I had a job to do, and I set out to do it, and do it the best I could. After all, as the old masthead of the Manchester Enterprise read, "To boldly go where no newspaper has gone before." That motto is a takeoff of the old Star Trek theme. It resonated with me almost immediately (I must confess I am indeed a Trekkie).

For three and a half years, I made it my goal to tell the stories of Manchester, Chelsea, and Dexter. From three-hour council meetings, to covering community fairs, events, police, and human interest pieces –– every story I wrote, I started with a fresh approach and exuberance.

As I began cleaning out my desk, I came across an abundance of old reporter notebooks chalked full of notes from the dozens of stories written over the years. It dawned on me that these notebooks weren’t just a compiling of chicken scratches, they represented a history of the towns I was a part of. The gem, however, was a Sticky Note attached to the back of a notepad that I must have written to myself during the first week on the job. Underneath the words “Meet with Jeff Wallace, 10 a.m.,” the note read, “keep it simple.”

That’s a philosophy I’ve gradually committed myself to over the years. Though a lot of folks believe an editor or reporter’s job is simply to go out and cover a story, there’s a lot more to it. Editors especially commit well over 60 hours weekly writing, editing, designing, blogging, video editing, handling payroll, managing online content, and a half dozen other tasks. This can make for some very late nights.
However, none of that mattered when I was out in the community. My job was to tell a story, and though sometimes individuals didn’t always agree on how that story was told, as a trustee of the community news, my goal was to always paint a fair, accurate, and balanced account.
As is often tradition with these types of farewell columns, I would like to give a few “shout outs” to some folks who made this job just a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable.

First and foremost to my girlfriend, Amy, whose gentle understanding allowed me to work many late nights without complaint, and who provided a constant source of support to listen to me unload my frustrations without judgment week after week.

Second, to my boss, Michelle Rogers for taking a chance on a relatively unknown guy from Texas. Thanks for the vote of confidence and help over the years. Thanks also for supporting the band and attending many shows at the Quarter Bistro, and for the parties and gatherings at your house. Thank you also for your friendship, especially during my first year on the job.

I also owe a debt of gratitude to my coworkers, each of which will be greatly missed.
Bill C.: I’ve enjoyed our conversations about guitars and music. We will definitely have to get together and have that jam session one day.

Terry J.: Thanks for supporting the band this past year. Hopefully we’ll be able to perform again together at another venue soon.

Don R.: Thanks for all the late night conversations on production night Monday evenings. It’s been a great pleasure working with you.

Ed P.: You were always good for a joke, especially when it came to Simpsons quotes. Though you’re at the Adrian Telegram now, your presence in the office in Saline is sorely missed.

Austen S.: You’re a damn good editor. It’s been fun working together and congratulations on the baby. Good luck in the future.

Sean D. and Dave M.: You guys were my right arm when I was assigned to the Chelsea and Dexter communities. During my tenure, the paper owed a lot to your ability to go out and cover local stories.

Joe, Carol, and Erin: If Dave and Sean were my right arm, you guys were my left when it came to production. Thank you 1,000 times for all the hard work you all did to make sure the paper came out on deadline. Carol, thank you especially for taking the time to explain page design to me during those early days at Heritage.

Kim M., Michelle M., and Pat C.: It’s been great working with you over the years. I can only wish you all the best of luck in the future.

Lisa A.: Thanks for all the help with freelance coverage of Dexter and Chelsea. Your uncanny ability to sniff out a story or track down a lead was a tremendous help. Thanks for hosting the reporter gatherings at your house and for any and all advice now and in the future. Though we started off rocky with the Obama button comment, I’m glad we’ve become good friends.

Jana M. and Stephane T.: You are the best girls in the office. Jana, your an amazing writer and friend who I’ve really come to enjoy working with. Covering President Obama’s speech together at U of M will be one of the best memories I take with me from Heritage. If you ever need help with anything, you know how to get in touch with me. It’s been a great ride, and if you ever launch your book series and you need a good P.R. guy, I’m your man!
Stephane, you are one of the harder ones to say goodbye too. You’ve been a great friend over the years. I could probably write an entire column just about working together with you. We both started at Heritage close to the same time, and since then you’ve become an indispensable friend. Thanks for all your help with the paper, but more importantly, thanks for all the fun times, conversations, and your uncanny ability to coax me through, what I consider sometimes, a crazy life. It’s been a lot of fun working with you and you will be deeply missed. Remember, Thursdays at Dan’s is an open invitation. I wish you all the best in wherever life takes you in the future.

To the rest of the Heritage West staff I leave these parting words:
“Journalism can never be silent: that is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault. It must speak, and speak immediately, while the echoes of wonder, the claims of triumph and the signs of horror are still in the air.”
Keep on doing what your doing. Heritage Newspapers has produced and will continue to produce quality work into the future. While you are here, above all, remember to have fun with the job and don’t take yourselves too seriously.

D.L.

Depression can happen to anyone

2010-12-02T08:12:00.000-08:00

By Dave Merchant
Coping with stress and depression is never easy, but it can be especially difficult around the holidays.

The pressure of the holidays can be a lot when it comes to the demands of shopping, parties, family reunions and house guests.

Whatever the reason or whatever the cause, people sometimes bottle their feelings inside, which ends up making them feel worse.

I have always been the type of person that is not very good at holding things in. Sure, I can keep secrets, but when it comes right down to it, I say what I mean most of the time and I don't pull any punches.

I have been dealing with depression for most of my life. When I was a teenager I was diagnosed with Maniac Depression, which, as many people may know, is just a simple imbalance of a chemical in my brain. There isn’t enough salt in my brain, so I have to take medicine to keep it regulated.

I use to think that was a bad thing. I have to take pills in the morning and pills at night. In fact, when I was younger I didn't go around telling anyone but my close family (who already knew) that I had the condition. It wasn't anyone's business and I felt I would keep it to myself. I found that this ended up really bothering me. I would hear people talk about the disease and make fun of it by calling folks “manic” or “bipolar.”

People like to make negative comments on things they either don't understand or maybe they are just ignorant about. Being bipolar is no different than having diabetes or high blood pressure. It is not my fault, and I really had nothing to do with it.

The interesting thing I realized once I came forward with my disease was that I really didn't have to be ashamed of it. In fact, I soon realized people respected me for coming forward and having the strength to admit it.

I had thought over the years that most of these people would have realized just by the way I would act that something was different. That was not the case. I had hidden by depression well from co-workers and friends for many years.

The point I am trying to make is that depression can happen to anyone at any age. People need to realize that no matter how bad it is, there is always someone you can talk to. Someone will listen to what you have to say. Being afraid to talk to someone can only make things worse.

I realized this when I first started with Heritage Newspapers in early 2000, and the CEO and owner of the paper (Heinz Prector), committed suicide. I was devastated because this man had all the money in the world and a life that I could not even imagine.

His death affected a lot of people and Heritage Newspapers was sold to the Journal Register Company. I felt that if he had the same disease as me and couldn't handle it, I was in trouble.

I reached out to his widow and explained how I felt. She was very kind about it and suggested I help with a study at the University of Michigan Depression Center that deals with bipolar disorder. I did sign up for the study and have been doing it for quite a number of years. It helps me personally and I feel good that I am doing something to help the disease.

The point I am trying to make is, people shouldn’t feel alone or ashamed because they are depressed. Instead, try to embrace it in some way and maybe make a negative a positive.

Dave Merchant is a staff writer at the Chelsea Standard or Dexter Leader and can be reached at dmerchant@heritage.com or 734-697-8255.
For more information on depression, call the University of Michigan Depression Center at 1-734-936-4400 or the Chelsea Community Hospital at 1-734-475-4040.

Arguments against TSA screenings are ridiculous

2010-11-24T06:19:00.000-08:00

Okay, so over the last couple of days, the Transportation Security Administration whose sole purpose is to protect the American people, is coming under heavy fire for its screening procedures.

These arguments are ridiculous, most of which the media is jumping all over and sensationalizing to hook viewers' attention.

I fly periodically, and I've never had a problem with the TSA security screening procedure. I've had my bags rummaged through, I've had the pat down, and I've even gone through the full body scanner. It's no big deal. I repeat, IT'S NO BIG DEAL!

All of these people looking to start a witch hunt with the TSA are exactly the same ones who will have their phones locked to speed dial ready to call into CNN when, God forbid, another terrorist attack occurs on American soil. I believe the word for these types of folks are hypocrites.

Indeed, a new pole shows that 48 percent of Americans see the new pat-downs as justified, while 50 percent say they go too far. When it comes to security and safety 45,000 miles above the earth, I'm fine with whatever it takes to make sure some holy Jihadist doesn't have the opportunity to blow me out of the sky.

It's amazing to me that people hired to protect U.S. citizens are reportedly being punched, kicked and shoved during pat-downs. It was even reported that one woman headbutted a screener who was searching her laptop. Some screeners are even being accused of molesting passengers. Molesting passengers? GIVE ME A BREAK!

Look folks, if you are worried about a pat-down, do yourselves and all of us a favor and leave items like phones, belts and heavy jewelry in their carry-ons when going through security, and then take them out after going through security. The only reason you might get a pat-down is because your new phone is setting off the metal detector.

Maybe I'm biased because my dad is a TSA screener, but I know he's out there everyday making sure people he may never see again in his lifetime remain safe.

The bottom line is be safe out there this holiday season, allow yourself some extra time at the airport, and try to keep your patience when the guy in front of you wearing his "Don't touch my junk" T-shirt is making you late for your flight because he won't let the TSA check his pockets.

It's not the TSA that's the problem, think about it.

D.L.

Home for the Holidays is nearly here

2010-11-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

By Dave Merchant
Heritage Newspapers

The Christmas and New Year holidays are right around the corner, and the Village of Dexter is looking to shine once again this year as it comes alive with festive spirit.

The “Home for the Holidays” Christmas Festival will be held on Dec. 4. It will begin with breakfast with Santa at the Lighthouse Cafe from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with a special menu for children.

Mary Pierce, director of Think Dexter First, said the event use to be called “Victorian Christmas” until her group took it over in 2006.

“We decided to go with the theme of ‘home for the holidays.’ Our goal was to cut out the things that weren't profitable,” she said.

The holiday craft bazaars will be held at St. Andrew's Church, the Dexter Senior Center and the Dexter Area Historical Museum from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Santa will be at the gazebo at Monument Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Holiday Hustle 5K run/walk for charity will begin at 4 p.m. at Central Street near Monument Park. Participants can register online at www.runholiday5k.com.

Pierce said the race is one of the more popular events for the festival. Proceeds benefit the Dexter Senior Center, Dexter Lions Club, ABC Athletic Group and Faith in Action.

“We ask each runner to bring a can of food to donate as well,” she said. “Every item gets a ticket and that ticket is a chance to win a prize.”

She said some of the prizes are donated by LaFontaine Automotive Group of Dexter.

Pierce said last year, event organizers collected enough food to fill a U-Haul truck, and she is hoping for more this year.

Dexter's annual tree lighting ceremony will begin at Monument Park at 6 p.m.
Pierce said that many of the restaurants will give discounts to customers who present their race tickets throughout December.

“It will be good for a month if they get it stamped,” she said.

She said carolers will be walking down the street and singing every 10 to 15 minutes. The event has been very popular, and even up until three or four years ago there were roughly 2,000 runners signed up for the 5K run

“I always think it is a good problem when people say there is nowhere to park,” she said. “Our goal is to have an interest for everyone.”

There is an all-day roaming ice sculpture carving and exhibit downtown, which is sponsored by area businesses.

Think Dexter First encourages all visitors to shop locally throughout the weekend festivities. For more information visit www.dexterholiday.com.

New coffee house in Chelsea

2010-11-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

The City of Chelsea welcomed its newest business member on Tuesday morning as the Biggby Coffee shop at 1171 Main Street Suite #1 opened for business to the public. The store has been a dream of owner Chris Kosmet from Jackson for well over a year.
“I was looking for a business to open and I was really happy I found a Michigan based company,” Kosmet said. “They were at the top of my list. I love coffee and I love the atmosphere.”
The business employs 16 part-time workers and is open Monday through Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Sunday the shop hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
“So far the community has welcomed us well,” he said. “Chelsea is a great community and I have always loved the Common Grill.”
The coffee shop has 27 seats and does not have a drive-thru. The ordinance in this part of Chelsea only allows drive-ins for pharmacies. H&R Block originally had this location but they were able to work something out with the landlord so Biggby Coffee could have the end spot in the mall.
“The City of Chelsea Zoning Commission, Washtenaw County Health Department have all been very helpful in the process,” he said.
Bob Pierce, director of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce said it is always nice when a new business opens in the community.
“I think it is always exciting to open a new business,” Pierce said. “It is a good location for a good coffee shop. I am very impressed with the owner and his staff and how they were very involved in the community before it opened. They wanted to join the Chamber and have become good corporate citizens.”
Mike Jackson, president of the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce said he is excited anytime a new franchise opens in the area.
“It is nice to have an independent business owner,” Jackson said.
Kosmet’s mother and co-owner, Vicki, said the process of opening a business is a lot.
“There is a lot to do to get it open,” Vicki said. “Chelsea was a good location for us from Jackson. I have a daughter that lives in Saline and one in Ypsilanti so we come through Chelsea a lot.”

Japanese delegation visits Chelsea, Dexter

2010-11-19T13:23:00.001-08:00

(Above) Dr. Michael D. Fetters of the Family Medicine @ Domino's Farms Japanese Family Health Program, Muramatsu Fujio, mayor of Mori Town, Shawn Keough, Dexter Village president, and Junichi Ota, mayor of Kimugawa, as well as a Japanese delegation, visited Dexter and were given a special tour of the apple cider making process at Dexter Cider Mill on Nov. 18.

(Above) Chelsea Mayor Jason Lindauer accepts a gift of pottery from Fujio Muramatsu, mayor of Mori Town, while Junichi Ota, mayor of Kikugawa, looks on. The Japanese mayors and medical dignitaries were part of a delegation that visited the Chelsea District Library and Chelsea Community Hospital on Nov. 18 to learn more about family practice medicine.

Dexter is a nice place to visit

2010-11-09T12:07:00.000-08:00

I guess the best thing for me to say is hello and I hope I do a good job with the Dexter Leader for the short time I am going to be here. Since taking over for the injured Sean Dalton I have met some interesting and very nice people in the community.
I am not use to traveling as far as I have been to get to events and meetings but I will do the best I can.
The Village of Dexter is an interesting place that has brought me back to some of my earlier days as a reporter. When I first started out I was covering the school board and crime at a daily paper in Kansas. After many years and quite a few sports games and features I find myself back doing the same thing. The schools in this area are fantastic and so far all the people and students I have met are good as well.
The Dexter Village Council is also very good at what they do. I have enjoyed learning about the projects in the community as well as many other issues in the area.
I look forward to also helping in Chelsea and getting even more stories from out there. The best thing any reporter can have is sources and people with ideas.
Please get in touch with me by email or phone if you have any ideas for stories (good or bad) I will listen and not judge.
My email is address is dmerchant@heritage.com.

Pumpkinheads

2010-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Our interim reporter Dave Merchant took these photos at a recent Halloween event at the Dexter Farmers' Market:

Tis the season for spooky scares

2010-10-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

Halloween is once again upon us. And, though I don't have any children of my own, it still remains one of my favorite holidays. Though gone are the days of trick-or-treating, my siblings and I still enjoy celebrating Oct. 31 with parties, movies, and all things "scary."

Last week, we took to the stores to find the perfect pumpkins for our annual carving night. For the past three years, since I moved back to Michigan, our tradition has been to carve pumpkins while watching one of the old childhood flicks, this year being "Ernest Scared Stupid." I know what your thinking: There's nothing scary about this movie. And you would be right, there isn't. But it is funny, and downright ridiculous. I won't go into the details of one Ernest P. Worrell, but if you have just the slight interest in ol' EPW, you can read about it here.

However, there are plenty of other scarier film for the true horror fan out there. My favorites are listed below in no particular order:

1) Halloween

2) A Nightmare on Elm Street

3) The Shining

4) Amityville Horror

5) The Exorcist

6) Mirrors

7) The Omen

8) Arachnophobia

9) Saw

10)Mothman Prophecies

Greetings and hello

2010-10-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let those of you who haven't seen or heard of me know that I will be covering some aspects of Dexter and Chelsea events in the community for the next few weeks depending on the health of staff writer Sean Dalton, who is off work due to an accident.

If anyone has events they want covered or information for the paper, please contact me at dmerchant@heritage.com.

I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully I will do a good job in the absence of Sean.

Once again if anyone has any ideas, events or just wants to talk, e-mail or call me.

Thank you for letting me serve your communities and I hope I do a good job!

Dave Merchant

The war on recycling

2010-10-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

By Elaine Owsley
Guest Writer

Today I parked in front of a stand of milkweed. The pods were beginning to open and the seeds, like giant dandelion fluff, were beginning to escape.
During World War II, we kids roamed the allies and the railroad right-of-ways gathering up milkweed pods at this time of year. They went to manufacturers who packed the seed fluff into float jackets for airmen. Before the days of synthetics, that's what they used for flotation aid.

We were all so well trained –– collecting metals, paper, etc., and when the war was over they said, "Ok, you don't have to do that any more.” Think of all the recyclables we could have processed and all of the energy saved if we'd continued. It’s kind of short sighted.

Someone would come to the schools and pick up the paper bags (since plastic wasn't around) on a special day. We had enormous paper drives, and the metal drives included things like the tinfoil that wrapped pieces of gum and cigarette packages.
The toothpaste tubes were made of some kind of bendable, rollable metal, and those were collected, too.

Coffee cans, any kind of food cans, oil cans, old metal stuff, whatever you could find –– usually in the alleys –– were all collected, and semi-trucks would make the rounds and pick the items up. There were five or six schools in our part of town in about a five-mile radius, so doing the pickup part was a big deal.

We would win arm patches if we brought in whatever it was being collected. I think I still have mine around here somewhere. Our mothers would sew them on our snowsuit or jacket sleeves.

We also brought in the cuffs from our father's suits –– they were changing over to cuffless pants –– and they were gathered up and taken to women who would make quilts out of them for the veteran's hospitals. My mother belonged to a group that rolled bandages for the Red Cross. We saved our used cooking oil and Crisco that had been used for cooking, strained it and saved it to be taken off and used for something that had to do with the war.

Once, I remember the grocery store had a day when you could buy a can of Crisco without a token, if you brought in a can of saved grease. The lady across the street used it to make soap, adding lye, probably, so maybe that's what the grease was used for.

There were bunches of things that weren't available, but we managed to survive. Amazing how puny our little "sacrifices" are today, isn't it? But I don't recall that anyone really felt they were put upon to save, gather, and contribute –– from elementary schools on up.

It's sad, really, that all that training has gone with the years. We all felt part of something big and important –– in this case the war effort.
What if we could fire up that feeling again? What if we could be part of the energy effort, or "earth effort,” or "sustainability effort"?
What if kids could brag that their school collected more paper than another school?

I don't think we've lost the ability to do these things. I think we've just lost the group feeling of purpose. A single-mindedness about our planet and its needs, instead of just our own, is what's needed. We did it before, as the wartime song said, and we can do it again.

Sweetest Day or Hallmark scam?

2010-10-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

Everyone keeps reminding me that something called Sweetest Day is coming up on Sunday. The radio, television commercials, and store newspaper ads are all bombarding us and trying to get us to buy something for that special someone on Oct. 17. Correct me if I am wrong, but I thought that was reserved for Feb. 14. And even then, I don't think you should have to wait for one (now two) days out of the year to tell someone that you love them or that you think about them.

I first came across this holiday in 2006 after my parents divorced. Before then, I never even heard of such a monstrosity. For those that don't know, Sweetest Day was started 84 years ago by a candy maker named Herbert Birch Kingston as an act of philanthropy to spread goodwill to everyone, including the elderly, orphaned and sick. Though ol' Herb might have had the best of intentions, as history has shown us, every deed done with good intentions has the opportunity to become a complete disaster. In the case of Sweetest Day, that is certainly the case.

Though I meay seem like a jerk for speaking out against Sweetest Day, a quick glance around the Internet sphere will show you that I am not alone. Infact, there is one Facebook "fan" page that simply calls itself "F!@# Sweetest Day"

Now, to be fair, I'm not totally heartless. I just find showering folks with gifts just for the sake of it is rather dull. But, for those who feel so inclinded to join the dozens of folks out there who must rush out for that perfect gift the night before Sweetest Day, often crowding the self checkout lanes at the grocery store, do yourself a favor and take the GF out for a nice romantic evening instead. She'll thank you in the end just for thinking about her.

And to all the ladies out there, don't be too mad if your boyfriend or husband doesn't come home with an armful of gifts. It is, afterall, just another day. And we love you just as much as we do the other 364 days out of the year.

D.L.

Chelsea Area Fire Authority's open house on Oct. 10

2010-10-11T06:21:00.001-07:00

Celebrity sighting

2010-10-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Chelsea Native and Hollywood actor Jeff Daniels enjoyed an up close and personal seat at Saturday's U of M football game. Daniels was spotted on the sidelines by a Heritage Newspapers freelance photographer. Read our story on the Purple Rose's anniversary here.

Fall weather brings back memories

2010-10-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, during a rare break between homework and my responsibilities in Chelsea and Dexter, I was able to enjoy an afternoon at Apple Charlie's Cider Mill near Flat Rock. Though most of the morning was rainy and cold, my girlfriend, brother, and I found some fun with the U-pick apples. After about an hour of picking various apples from the orchard (Yellow Delicious are my favorites), we enjoyed a nice hot cup of apple cider and some apple cinnamon bread.

The fall is one of my favorite times of the year because it brings back so many fun memories of growing up in Michigan. From raking leaves in the backyard with my brother, to trick-or-treating in our neighborhood with mom and dad, there was always something fun and exciting going on in my home.

Memories are funny things. They also make you miss friends and family members that are no longer around. My mom still lives in Texas, and whenever the family up in Michigan does something I know she would enjoy, I miss her even more. Mom always liked cider mills. She also always found a way to entertain my brother, sister, and I growing up.

As we continue this busy week ahead, I urge everyone to take some time out of their day and think about the little things that they take for granted but provide so much fun and entertainment. And go grab yourself a gallon of cider and be a kid again!

D.L.

Something old, something new, something borrowed, ...

2010-09-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

This week I'm heading back down to Texas to participate in my best friend and college roommate's wedding. Any chance to get away for awhile and visit with "the guys" is always something to look forward too. Ever since moving back up to Michigan in 2007, I've tried to get down to see my mom and the gang as much as I can.

Sam, the youngest in our group, is getting married to his college sweetheart (it's about time, too). I'm sure there will be plenty of shenanigans involved if all goes as we've planned.

For my part, I'm the best man. So I've been working on my speech the past couple of days in preparation for the big day (Saturday).

So, as I prepare to once more fly the friendly skies, I bid all of you adieu until I return next week.

D.L.

Friends in high places

2010-08-30T13:56:00.001-07:00

Recently I had the opportunity to escape from the office for a long three-day weekend to Galveston, Texas to attend a gala fundraiser for the Galveston Seafarer's Center. As some folks know, though I was born in Michigan, I spent most of my life in Texas. I grew up in Galveston and attended college at the University of Texas in Austin.

It was fun being able to revisit some of my old haunts together with my brother and my old college and high school friends.

The real reason we were down there, like I said, was thanks in large part to my mom, who is the port chaplain of the Galveston Seafarer's Center. The center helps people who basically make their living on the sea from all over the world. The center provides these seafarers a "home away from home" and a chance to escape from their ship for a few hours to hang out in a relaxed environment, call home to their families and use the Internet. To hear a very compelling story about the Seafarer's Center, click here and listen to the story of a Bulgarian seaman who was helped by the center and later provided help to the survivors of Hurricane Ike.

The Seafarer's Center, like much of Galveston, was virtually destroyed when Hurricane Ike blew through the island in 2008. Much of the island businesses are still rebuilding. The dinner my brother and I were invited to is the center's largest fundraiser of the year and helps with the cost of the center's operations.

This year, the band that the Seafarer's Center booked for the event knew of my brother and I because we had a band in Galveston years ago. They saw our new band, Delirious Love, on Facebook, and invited us to come play a few songs with them.

After kicking into "Mustang Sally," we got another surprise. The mayor of Galveston is a drummer and he enjoyed our style of music so much, he asked if he could sit in for a few songs with us. A fun time was definitely had by all and we're looking forward to next year's event.

It was nice being able to go to Galveston and see some familiar faces and share our music. It was even more fun being able to spend a weekend with my mom and step dad and stepbrother and sister.

High school reunion

2010-08-23T14:40:00.001-07:00

Chelsea High School’s Class of 1975 held their 35th class reunion on Aug. 14 at the Bollinger Farm in Chelsea. Classmates that attended the reunion where: (Front row, left to right) Daryll West, Don Pierson, Gary Stephens, Dave Leach, Linda (Simon) Stegmeyer, Carol Schroen, Cindy (Minix) Messner, Cindy (Frisbie) Gauss, Faye (Weirich) Bollinger, Cindy (VanRiper) Fischhaber, Debbie (Bertke) Mazurkiewicz, Julie (Asmussen) Doty, Jody (Daniels) Novak, Robin (Schnieder) Valdez, Cindy (Harook) Hoover and Merry Hoffmeyer.
(Middle row, left to right) Anne (Treado) Mann, Beth (Branch) Tobin, Sheryl Cantrell, Diane (Bycraft) Parisho, Valerie (Robertson) Paladino, Tim Eder, Becky (Clemons) Powell, Don Messner, Kathy (Dunn) Finger, Janis (Hopkins) Knieper, Dan Foytik, Karl Gauss, JoAnn (LaFontaine) Gould, Gregg Burg, Terry Satterwaite, Mark Pennington, Ishmael Picklesimer, Todd Ortbring, Perry Johnson, Don Bollinger, Laurie (Mann) Porter and Frank Grohnert.
(Back row, left to right) Vic Steinbach, Terry Ellenwood, Rick Robbins, Sandy (Walker) Scott, Basil Scott, Kathy (Kuhl) Groom, Tim Guenther, Ron Kiel, Glenn Alter, Rick Sweeny, Dale Heydlauff, Duane Luick, Paul Wood and Tres MacCollum.
Missing from the photo was Dan Barnes, Dan Lancaster, and Mike Piatt.

Sean versus food

2010-08-12T13:32:00.001-07:00

On Aug. 10, Heritage Newspapers reporter Sean Dalton was drafted to take the U's ultimate cheeseburger challenge. The challenge consists of a 2 pound burger with all of the trimmings, 1 pound of french fries and 1 pound of onion rings. The challenger must consume the entire meal within 45 minutes.
The results of the contest will be posted online with video at www.heritage.com in the coming days.
The U Pizza and Burgers is located at 3901 Jackson Road in Scio Township. For more information, call 1-734-369-8444.
Do you think Sean won? Tell us your opinion.

Exploring Chelsea

2010-08-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

Being fairly new to the Chelsea community, earlier this month at the Sounds and Sights Festival gave me a chance to stretch my wings a bit in an informal setting and explore the downtown area for myself. I have to say, Chelsea is a fun city!

Since I arrived downtown on July 30 around 5 p.m., my first destination was to find some source of sustenance. Eating out can be tricky on a journalist’s salary, especially when there’s rent and bills to be paid.

A quick check of the ol’ wallet yielded a brand new crisp $10 bill, so I decided the best use of my money was to head down to Jolly’s. For those of you who don’t know, Jolly’s is the newest sandwich and hamburger joint located inside the Gourmet Chocolate Café. Their freshly baked bread and hot grinders are to die for.
My favorite sandwich is their club. The meat is warm, the bread melts in your mouth, and the bacon is actual bacon, not that skimpy grease-soaked imitation bacon you get on your hamburger at fast food restaurants. These sandwiches are the real deal, and at $5 apiece, you definitely get your money’s worth. Since I still have change left over after the sandwich, I decided to sample some of the Gourmet Chocolate Café’s selections as well.

I’m a huge chocoholic, so shopping for just the right treat to satisfy my sweet tooth is a mission in and of itself. I’m sure I annoyed the young woman behind the counter who so graciously put up with my antics –– mainly how much something cost and how much would $1.25 yield?

Finally I settled on something called “sea foam,” which I never heard of in my life. It looks like a chocolate covered marshmallow but its texture is similar to the crunchy goodness of malt balls combined with the chewiness of Butterfinger peanut butter. The result is a delectable ball of melty chocolaty goodness.

Satisfied, I ventured back out to Main Street entranced by the sounds of the Howling Diablos coming from the entertainment tent behind the Common Grill. The Diablos music isn’t usually my cup of tea, but after listening to a few of their tunes, these master musicians roused even the toughest wolves in the crowd with their funky jam blues and Detroit rock and roll.

On Saturday, the afternoon started off with steady rain that kept many visitors huddled under tents or umbrellas. It was fun to watch the Cirque Amongus show on the Chelsea District Library lawn as real performers tried to balance their act while staying dry and keeping dozens of children entertained in the process.

After about 20 minutes and no sign of the rain letting up, my brother and I decided to chance it and make a mad dash to the social tent to listen to the Chelsea House Orchestra perform while drying off and indulging our appetites with various selections from the food tent.

The CHO was impressive. These young musicians had me hooked from the minute they started. The violinists were absolutely amazing. You would be hard-pressed to find talent in this area or even the state that could rival the CHO.

Making our way down Main Street, we spoke with many local merchants and visitors, who all had positive things to say about the festival. Our second stop was at the Mission Marketplace, where the folks at Mindo Chocolates were busy demonstrating how to grind cocoa nibs into chocolate liquor. A brief demonstration was all it took to hook my brother, who decided to buy several bars to take home (with the help of his big brother). I also picked up a few pieces of jewelry to take home to my girlfriend. We both agree that the Mission Marketplace is unique.

Our final stop was to see Toppermost perform at the Gourmet Chocolate Café. My brother and I are huge Beatles fans, and any chance to see a band perform the music of the Beatles is a treat. Usually you can’t get anywhere near the stage when a Beatles tribute band performs, but we got close enough to Toppermost to take a few photos and talk with the band before the show. It was, as the Beatles might say, “fab.”

Though there is still plenty more to see and a lot more people to talk to in Chelsea, my goal of exploring the city was accomplished. I can see why a lot of residents cherish their small town. It’s like an undiscovered gem waiting for others to find.

I look forward to attending many more festivals and events in the coming months and years while working to serve the residents of Chelsea and Dexter. My next venture will be exploring downtown Dexter for the city’s annual Dexter Daze events. Let the fun begin!

An intern's thoughts on working with Heritage Newspapers

2010-08-02T06:14:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Justin Lockard. I'm 22 years old and I guess you can say in the time reaching this blessed age I haven't been such a saint. Over that time I've lost, lived and learned a lot of great things, which makes me who I am today — a much wiser person in all aspects of myself and my life.

I work very hard,attend school, and I have lots of positive role models and friends. By all means, I stay out of drama. Oh and I might add I'm very smart — that's my intellectual side. I'm a fun guy. I like anything positive. I love to sing, and I hope to go somewhere with that gift one of theses days.

For the past four Mondays, I have been interning at Heritage Newspapers, learning how to write stories,edit, and research.

I must say that in this short time I have experienced a lot. My very first day I got to help shadow an exclusive story about a new law being passed in order to allow any one person to profit from selling baked goods and vegetables. I got to meet Gov.Granholm. I also got to shoot video, and I was on the news. My family loved that.

For the remainder of the time I've been here I have researched stories and written stories, one of which was published in the Chelsea Standard newspaper.

Learning these things have inspired me to want to write more and learn more. Being exposed to this kind of work has taught me you can never know enough about one topic. Everything is precise and well written. This has been a fun experience for me.

Interview with Marvin Carlson

2010-07-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

This morning, Marvin Carlson of Manchester, candidate for Michigan's 7th District in the U.S. House of Representatives talked with Daniel Lai of Heritage Newspapers via a live telecast or "phlog" using Ipadio technology. Carlson spoke on job creation in the 7th District as well as health care reform and the oil spill in Kalamazoo. You can read his election profile at www.heritage.com.

~D.L.

President Obama visits Detroit

2010-07-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

On Friday, President Barack Obama visited the Chrysler Group LLC's Jefferson North assembly Plant in Detroit during a brief stop in Michigan to promote economic growth in the auto industry.

Obama visited the Chrysler plant a little more than a year after the company emerged from bankruptcy to see a company that is on the road to recovery.

During the President's visit, Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne announced that the company's Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, which was scheduled to close after 2012, will now remain open. In addition, he announced that the company will add nearly 900 jobs on a second shift of production, scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2011. To support that operation, suppliers will add nearly 500 jobs.

Because my duties are first and foremost to the communities of Chelsea and Dexter, I was unable to attend the president's visit. However, as I believe the creation of auto jobs affects everyone in the state, I sent my trusted friend and photographer, Ian Kushnir, in my place. Ian has attended several news events with me and was thrilled with the opportunity to cover the president's visit to the Motor City.

Ian's communications with me via cell phone also allowed me to recreate a story from the president's visit, and that will be posted to our news site shortly.

~D.L.

Sounds and Sights starts with a bang

2010-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Sounds and Sights Music Festival in Chelsea opened last night, drawing in a lot of the younger demographic to the downtown event. Heritage Newspapers reporter Sean Dalton walked the streets filming various music acts, entertainment as well as talking with Bob Pierce, Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce executive director, and other locals.
The festival continues both Friday and Saturday night, and we'll be bringing a lot more coverage. Check back with us at www.chelseastandard.com over the weekend for stories, blog posts and reviews of performances.

Interview with Brian Rooney

2010-07-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

This morning, Brian Rooney, Republican candidate for Michigan's 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, cordially accepted Heritage Newspapers' copy editor Daniel Lai's invitation to be interviewed live on the Ipadio program he has been experimenting with. The phonecast or "phlog" was published as a "live" interview and recorded for others to listen to at their convenience.
Mr. Rooney discussed his plans to address job creation in Michigan, health care reform and other issues pertinent to the 7th District. Mr. Rooney's candidate profile can be viewed at www.heritage.com under the "News" tab.
~D.L.

2nd test with Ipadio

2010-07-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

In my ongoing exploration of Ipadio, I took the time to interview an intern who is working with me at our office in Saline over the next few weeks. Ipadio definitely has a lot to offer journalists. Infact, one newspaper Web site I stumbled across in the United Kingdom, relies heavily on citizen journalists using Ipadio to conduct interviews and do their own stories. There’s also a lot I don’t yet understand from the program either. It says you can synch to Twitter and Facebook and Blogger anytime you publish a new audio recording. I tried to do that, following simple instructions, but I haven’t seen a link on my Facebook or Twitter account yet. If you use your phone, you can also upload four photos with your audio recording. I took a picture of Justin to see what the quality would be like. Apparently you do not have to use Ipadio just on a cell phone. You can register any phone with the Website and use the program as well. I talked to the Ipadio CEO and he said the program’s features are free for journalists. There are definitely some bugs to work out in the coming weeks. For instance, I have yet to figure out how to embed the audio interview with stories and other blogs, etc. Stay tuned!

Just back from Stephen West's performance at the Encore

2010-07-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Stephen West and Dan Cooney for putting on tonight's Concert Series show. It was my first experience with live opera singing and West represented his craft with aplomb.

Before the Encore folks began the series I always wondered how best to utilize their stage between regular shows -- usually as I was getting out of my seat and leaving the theater after seeing one.

These smaller shows are a perfect way to keep the dust out of the theater, not to mention provide more variety and opportunity to be entertained in Dexter. It's a shame that the series doesn't run for two weekends, as I plan on writing a review for an entertainment section in next week's Dexter Leader.

What a blast!

Testing new technology on a Friday afternoon

2010-07-16T12:03:00.001-07:00

In our latest attempt to bring local news quickly, effectively and digitally, I am working on a new experiment with the creators of the program Ipadio. This application, which was first developed for the Apple iPhone, allows anyone, but mainly journalists, to interview individuals anywhere in the world and instantly upload their audio interview to a Website, Facebook page, blog or any social media page online.

When I say "anyone," I mean anyone with an iPhone or cell phone equipped with the Google Android server that can download applications. Ipadio can be downloaded to a user's phone and effectively turns the phone into a personal radio broadcast. Even phone call interviews with elected officials can be recorded and edited on your phone as if you were sitting right next to the person in a broadcast booth.

To help better understand this technology, I conducted a short welcome audio interview with myself and uploaded it to our blog. Hopefully this technology is cool and my knack for creating something "cheesy" hasn't just gotten the best of me.

Take care.
D.L.

The fun part about the job

2010-07-02T13:23:00.001-07:00

I've always said one of my favorite parts of being a journalist is learning what the rest of the world does for a living.

I enjoy listening to artists tell their stories about what inspires them to paint or draw. I love watching actors create stage plays or movies. I enjoy talking with politicians just to see what makes them tick. I also love to watch a skillful chef prepare a meal (little known fact: One of my favorite TV shows is "Hell's Kitchen.")

Every now and then reporters get to have a little fun of their own by getting downright dirty. Friday afternoon I spent the day with the Hieber family in Manchester as part of my Adopt-a-Farm series. The Hiebers were as busy as ever working hard to bail hay. They are behind schedule due to all the rain that has come through this area.

When they asked if I wanted to ride on the tractor and watch how hay was actually bailed, I jumped at the chance. The ride was a little bumpy, but not bad. We were in a closed cab tractor, so I didn't have the authenticity of getting dirt and hay all over me while we tended the field.

Unfortunately, about 20 minutes in, the tractor started acting up. The Hiebers had to get it fixed, and they politely asked if I could come back later because they had a lot of work to still do before sunset. Naturally I obliged.

Before leaving, Charles Hieber's wife, Kara, asked if I wanted to see the barn where the family stores all of its hay before I left. Naturally I couldn't resist just a peek. However, I quickly learned I was in store for more than a peek.

The barn was filled to the brim with both square and circular bailed hay and Kara quickly began climbing on the barrels to get to the top of the barn. She asked me to follow her.

"Climb to the top of a barn on hay barrels? You have to be joking!" I thought.

But, for the sake of the story, I decided to throw caution to the wind. At this point I should tell you, yes I am somewhat afraid of heights.

Before I could even get one foot on the hay barrel, I lost my balance and fell. Luckily the ground below wasn't that far. No worse for the wear, I got up, brushed myself off, and started my ascent again. This time I got up near Kara, who informed me we still had a ways to climb.

Crawling on my belly, I followed Kara under wooden beams until we reached the top of the barn, at which point she asked, "Are you afraid of heights?"

I tried to play coy about it, but Kara knew I was a bit nervous (it must have been the shear panic in my eyes that gave me away.)

Kara was nice about it and helped me along until we reached the top and I was able to take a few photos. I also handed her my camera so she could snap a photo of me conquering the mountain of hay.

All in a days work you might say.

Close call with Mother Nature

2010-06-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, while venturing out to the Waterloo Farm Museum in Jackson County, my photographer and I had a little adventure of our own. Neither one of us checked the forecast for Jackson County before driving over an hour from Dearborn Heights to attend the event Sunday.
However, the closer we got to the museum, the darker the sky became. It was apparent we were heading into a pretty bad storm.

Being the fearless reporting team that we are (actually this was the first time I brought my friend Ian along to take photos with me), we decided we weren't going to leave without our story. It was the second time in two days that I had been out to Waterloo.

Within minutes of our arrival, however, Mother Nature had other plans. The skies opened up almost immediately and rain poured down on everyone visiting the museum. Those of us who were lucky enough to seek shelter until the storm passed, spent our time watching a local blacksmith forge a metal eating utensil in his shop.

After about 20 minutes to a half hour in the blacksmith shop, the rain had calmed to a light drizzle and we thought we were in the clear. That was not the case.

All of a sudden, a woman dressed in period clothing rushed into the blacksmith shop and told all of the museum's visitors that we were under a tornado warning. We were all ushered into the cellar of the old farmhouse.

While some young children and families seemed a bit concerned, Ian and I spent our time talking with the locals and chowing on Root Beer barrels (of which Ian seemed to have an endless supply of).

Luckily after about 15 minutes, someone decided that the tornado warning must have been a false alarm, and all of the visitors were ushered out quietly to enjoy the rest of the afternoon.

To read more about the Blacksmiths, Soldiers and Log Cabins event at the Waterloo Farm Museum, visit www.chelseastandard.com.

Gentz a true hero

2010-06-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the honor of covering Air Force 1st Lt. Joel Gentz’s funeral at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea. I say “honor” because it was truly a humbling experience to see how many people Mr. Gentz touched in his short life.

Driving through Chelsea on the way to the church, I was struck by the many signs that read “In memory of Joel Gentz. Thank you for your service,” or “God bless Joel Gentz and his family.” I was also struck by the number of Chelsea residents who took time out of their busy mornings to stand on the side of the street and wave American flags as the funeral procession drove by. It was truly a sight to behold. A stranger walking by might have thought the President of the United States was coming through Chelsea.

I hope the Gentz family took comfort knowing how much their son meant to so many people.

As I sat quietly in the back of the church, careful not to disturb any of the Gentz family and friends, I listened to how this young lieutenant selflessly put others before himself time and time again. I listened to how fellow Air Force officers (and even a colonel) looked up to him. One lieutenant talked about how some cadets jokingly considered Joel a “superhero” or a secret Pentagon robot. His comrades did their best at his funeral to paint a picture that Joel was just a regular guy with a huge heart and an incredible knack for helping others.

Though I never met the man, story after story I heard from friends, teachers and fellow servicemen painted a truly remarkable picture of someone I have always aspired to become.
Gentz’s kindness, humility, courage and determination embodies qualities we should all possess. And though I do not know Mr. Gentz, I am thankful for what he did in his life to make the lives of those around him more meaningful.

In that instance, maybe Joel Gentz was a superhero.

During the height of Hollywood actor Christopher Reeve’s fame as “Superman” during the 1970s and ’80s, someone asked him if he considers himself to be a hero, to which Reeve replied, “no.” Years later, after becoming paralyzed in a horse riding accident, he was asked the same question again. This time he replied, “I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”

Joel Gentz graduated with honors from Purdue University majoring in aeronautical and aerospace engineering. I can’t even begin to wrap my head around how challenging that must have been (I couldn't even get past college algebra the first time). He then moved on to and worked his way through the Air Force Combat Rescue Officer program, another daunting task. And every time he was faced with a challenge, he would just smile a coy smile and say, ‘Bring it on’ (according to his karate instructor Mike Poxson).

The very mission statement of the USAF Combat Rescue Officer program, "That others may live," defines what a hero is.

That makes Joel Gentz a hero to all of us.

I can’t pretend to know what it’s like to have to make the level of sacrifices military families do. I can’t pretend to know what it’s like to lose a sibling, a son or a daughter. I do know that all of us owe a tremendous amount of debt to our military families and servicemen and women –– one that may never be fully repaid.

As a small token of our appreciation for all servicemen and women, Heritage Newspapers has launched an online blog, http://greetingthetroops.blogspot.com, where readers can leave messages of thanks for members of the military serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, overseas and across the country. The blog can also be accessed through the Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader’s blog, http://chelseanewsroom.blogspot.com.

To the Gentz family and all military families, thank you for the sacrifices you make to keep the rest of us safe.God bless Joel Gentz.

New poll results are in!

2010-06-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

When do you start getting interested in the Primary Election?
Never: 36 percent
July, closer to the election: 23 percent
Just days prior to the election: 21 percent
After petitions have been filed: 21 percent

What qualities do you look for in a political leader?
Independent thinker: 55 percent
Rapport with 'regular folks': 17 percent
Experience: 17 percent
Agent of change: 10 percent

How did you spend Memorial Day?
Did nothing in particular: 51 percent
Attended community Memorial Day events: 21 percent
Attended a family picnic: 20 percent
Spent time at the pool or lake: 7 percent

What do you do about child care in the summer?
Family members: 40 percent
Summer camps: 32 percent
Daycare facility: 20 percent
Babysitters: 8 percent

What do you really do when there's a tornado warning?
Cautiously wait and see: 49 percent
Take cover in the basement: 31 percent
Ignore it: 11 percent
Take cover in a room without windows: 8 percent

Sounds and Sights begins tonight

2010-06-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

The following is the entertainment lineup for tonight's Sounds and Sights event in Chelsea:

North Creek Fiddlers at the Clocktower Gazebo (backside of the Clocktower)

Afternoon Round at the Sylvan Courtyard (Main St. b/w Middle & Jackson)

Motor City Outlaws at Total Fitness Parking Lot (Middle St. west of Main St.)

A2 Magic at the Clocktower Lot (Main St. b/w Jackson & North St.)

Comedy Showcase at the Chelsea Library (Main St. & South St.)

Balloon Emporium at the Courthouse (Main St. & South St.)

Manolete at Winan's Alley (Main St. b/w Middle & South St.)

Small Town Son at East Middle (Middle St. east of Main St.

The Bluecasters at South St. Tent (just off Main St.)

Open Mike at the Glazier Building(Northside of the Railroad on Main St.)

Scouts to hold rummage sale in Dexter

2010-06-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

Dexter Boy Scout Troop 477 will host their 40th annual rummage sale at Creekside Intermediate School on Baker Road from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. June 25, and 8 a.m. to noon June 26.

Pictured are scouts John-Henry and Paul Keenan with a few of the thousands of items that will be for sale in the gym, cafeteria, hallways and front lawn of the school.

Books, games, kitchen and household items, lamps, microwaves, cameras, tools, beds, bikes, lawn and garden items, musical instruments, televisions, toys, furniture and carpeting will all be on sale.

Just got back from seeing Club Morocco

2010-06-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

It's going to take a little while to put into words just how great my experience seeing The Encore Musical Theatre's Club Morocco was, but for now I'll just say that I use the word "experience" not by accident.

My tickets were initially booked for the 3 p.m. matinee earlier today, but that show was cancelled. When I first heard that news I was very disheartened, but I was relieved upon arriving for tonight's 8 p.m. show to a nearly full house.

The folks at the Encore are obviously on a mission: to do something new and bring audiences into the worlds they create on stage like never before. Hopefully the public recognizes the difference between established shows like Oklahoma and Jesus Christ Superstar and innovative productions like Spelling Bee and Club Morocco. Both have their place, but the success of the latter will ultimately prove the success the Encore.

Reaching out to the community

2010-05-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Webster's dictionary defines community journalism as, "locally oriented, professional news coverage that typically focuses on city neighborhoods, individual suburbs or small towns, rather than metropolitan, state, national or world news."

Since graduating from college in 2006 and working for two community newspapers, I have strived to do just that.

Since being named the "copy editor" for the Chelsea and Dexter communities in December 2009, I have tried to do just that.

Lately my office has received phone calls from residents often speaking out of anger and frustration about how the newspaper is "no longer local." They also ask, "What is your thinking in regard to what you publish?" or "What happend to the paper?"

The latter question I don't know how to answer, because nothing has "happend" to the newspaper. It's the same newspapers. Well, I take that back.

The Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader is trying to do more with less. It's no secret that the economy has affected all businesses. Newspapers are no exception. With less revenue from subscriptions, ad sales, etc., there is less money to pay for a larger staff.

And while we are trying to do more with less, we are also trying to evolve with the changing news demographic.

Most of you have read or seen that over the last few months, my reporter Sean Dalton and I have created a presence on Facebook, Twitter and Blogger. We also are adding online videos to supplement our news stories that we post on our Websites, www.chelseastandard.com and www.dexterleader.com on a daily basis.

This is an exciting time for journalists. We are working to bring as much local news as we possibly can on a 24 hour, seven day a week basis. That is a HUGE feat for two people! But it is something we are having fun doing. This is exciting for local community newspapers because instead of waiting for the newspaper to come out once a week, new information and up to date information can be posted on our Website.

Some of you may say this is nothing new and that daily newspapers have been doing this already. Well, this makes your LOCAL newspaper a daily newspaper.

It's frustrating when I hear that events such as Gov. Jennifer Granholm visiting Chelsea took place and our newspaper was not contacted by anyone. It takes both the community and the community newspaper to work together in order to sustain each other.

To this end, Sean and myself have begun taking it upon ourselves to contact local service clubs and religious groups in our communities to request a partnership. After reading our evaluations that Heritage Newspapers printed in our paper earlier this year, we heard that there was a resounding need to report on more Christian groups in Dexter. To this end, Sean launched a speaking tour with local religious leaders to talk with them and determine how the newspaper can work with them.

I plan to meet with local service groups in Chelsea as my time permits. My first meeting is with the Chelsea Kiwanis Club later this month.

The newspaper is reaching out to the community during this exciting transition and we hope that input from the community will continue to make the Dexter Leader and Chelsea Standard the best small town local source of information. And as always, my door is always open, it's just a short drive away.
Happy reading!

Chelsea Relay for Life impresses

2010-05-23T19:40:00.000-07:00

So far I have three Dexter Relay for Life's under my belt, so this was my first year covering the one in Chelsea, and it was a very impressive display the connections that exist not just in the Chelsea community, but with other communities as well.

Manchester and Dexter had a presence. Manchester's CRC team and Michelle Mrocko's team were present. A team from Pinckney with a touching story that I won't spoil here will be the main portion of Thursday's Chelsea Relay for Life coverage.

When I left them Saturday afternoon the RLF organizers were fervently counting the money they had raised. As I spoke to some of the teams a couple of fundraising milestones were announced. Can't wait to see the preliminary numbers Monday evening.

Next Take Care around the corner

2010-05-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a little longer than I had hoped getting another installment of Take Care - my semi-regular health column that has focused mostly on my experience with chiropractic care, for those unfamiliar with it.

I'm happy to report that I have the results of my second set of spinal and neck x-rays and readings, and the results were quite pleasing. For the full run-down keep an eye on our papers and the website.

On a semi-related note I attended Dr. Bill Simpson's second dinner event at Dexter Pub. Every month or so he puts out an open invitation to folks in the community to have dinner on him, alongside a raffle for $75, a special offer first time visit and a lot of good conversation and networking.

Songs in the key of E minor

2010-05-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

During the last few months, I have found renewed interest in doing things I always said I would do but never got around to doing. So far, it has yielded some decent results. After three years, I finally tackled my fears and applied for, and was accepted to, graduate school at Wayne State University. I will begin classes in the fall. Also in my spare time — which translates to once a week — have begun teaching myself how to play guitar.

Those that know me know that I already play bass guitar in a band called Delirious Love. For those that don't, you can read all about that band on Facebook (just search for "Delirious Love").
But, I've also always had a passion to learn how to play guitar. For one thing, being able to play guitar greatly expands my ability to play songs and write songs that interest me. My band members have no interest in Johnny Cash, Bon Jovi or Bruce Springsteen. It was like pulling teeth to even get the band to OK some Neil Diamond, even though our band name was taken from a song on his 2006 album "12 Songs."

So, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, I lock myself in my apartment's spare bedroom and pull up the guitar chords online for Diamond's "Red Red Wine," The Kinks' "Lola" or Springsteen's "Born to Run" and try to play along to the CD. The hardest part is learning what finger is supposed to push down on what string or fret. My brother, who is a guitar guru, calls this process "muscle memory."

My patience also runs thin trying to use a guitar pick. I can strum down, but my upstroke sounds like someone is ripping the strings from the fretboard. Now, if I strum using my thumb, I sound pretty good. My brother warns me though to not get use to strumming the guitar with my thumb.

After two months, I have three chords memorized (Em, Am, and D). I am working on the G and C chords before moving onto the dreaded "Fm" chord that my brother says usually gets people so frustrated that they quit. Luckily Em, Am and D make up a lot of songs. And when I come across a chord I can't play (F sharp minor), I just simply stop strumming the guitar and hum the chord. I wouldn't necessarily call the result a "song" per say, but it's the start of something. At this rate, I give myself a year before I am able to pick up a guitar with confidence and strum through an entire song. Luckily, I have plenty of time to learn.

In the meantime, I'll keep strumming along to my iTunes music while my girlfriend turns the television up loud enough to drown out the sound of persistence coming from the other room. I'm just kidding. Actually she's very supportive. When she heard I wanted to learn guitar, she scrounged around her mom's house until she found her old guitar. That is what I am using as I journey through this new challenge. And with any luck, I will have something positive to report about my progress as I forge ahead.

Rock on fellow musicians and music lovers!

New poll results!

2010-05-20T08:05:00.001-07:00

Which summer festival are you looking forward to?
Ann Arbor Art Fairs: 30 percent
Chelsea Summer Fest: 30 percent
Ypsilanti Heritage Festival: 24 percent
Saline Celtic Festival: 16 percent

What are you doing with your tax refund?
Saving it: 44 percent
Using it on household expenses: 37 percent
Spending it on something special: 15 percent
Spending it on vacation: 4 percent

How much do you donate to nonprofits each year?
$1,000 or more: 54 percent
Under $100: 21 percent
$100 to $300: 16 percent
$300 to $500: 9 percent

What do you do when you have an hour of spare time?
Read a book: 36 percent
Read a newspaper: 34 percent
Play online games: 20 percent
Update Facebook page: 9 percent

What do you think should be a priority of WISD consolidates services?
Human resources: 42 percent
Money savings: 33 percent
Students outcome: 18 percent
Service quality: 6 percent

Lima Township Cemetery Gets Facelift

2010-05-19T14:57:00.000-07:00

I got an early morning call today giving me the head's up that a group of Lima Township residents would be working to clean up one of the township's four cemeteries.

And if you didn't know about the cemetery, you'd never find it.

I've probably driven by it thousands of times and didn't know it was there. But members of the Chelsea American Legion knew it was there because veteran's graves were flanked by American Flags.

I spied gravestones that dated back to 1801. Some of the stones were so weathered, you couldn't read who was buried there. Others were toppled over or covered in brambles. The site had definitely seen better days.

But a group of 10-15 township residents will spend the next four days cleaning up the cosmetics of the site -- led by the efforts of Ed Greenleaf. But this is just the first phase of the work.

Following the heavy lifting comes the mystery solving. As Greenleaf and other members of the township's cemetery committee will begin contacting families of those buried at the site to try to make heads and tails of all the people who are buried there.

The men are donating their time, their equipment, and their sweat equity to the cause in the names of all of those who went before them.

I'd like to give a shout out to Bill Coury, Don Laier, George Hellner, Ed Greenleaf, Ron Herrst, Craig Maier, Bob Bulmon, Chuck Chamberlain and Tom Bater.

A fitting way to honor former township residents before Memorial Day.

The dark side has sucked me in ...

2010-05-12T11:43:00.001-07:00

When I entered journalism school (or J-school as we in the field call it) seven years ago, one of the first things that my professors hammered into my head was to avoid those public relations majors, or "PRs" across the hall. All they serve to do is corrupt our young minds and coerce us over to their side, ignoring all the skills that create a true journalist.

Some of my friends, even a dorm roommate, ignored my professors' warnings and switched their majors halfway through the semester. Some even waited until their last semester of college to pull a 180 and go over to "the dark side." I guess they were afraid what graduating actually meant -- finding a job.

For me, the extent of my education in public relations work rested in one BORING advertising class I took my junior year. I remember the textbook was Latin to me, and half of the time we sat analyzing British commercials to determine how effective they were on the target audience. Of course, every now and then, one of the commercials would be a little risque with half-naked men and women blabbering on about some new milk product or clothing detergent. I guess the ad worked for all of us college students since that's what I took away from commerical analysis 101.

You are probably asking yourself, "Where is he going with all of this?" The answer, dear readers, is simply this: About three months ago I began re-evaluating my career track, and, after many a sleepless night, decided now is a good time to apply for graduate school.

I know, just like my family said, I'm crazy for taking on such a huge task on top of running two community newspapers right? Well, this week I found out I was accepted to Wayne State in their Master's of Public Relations program. I am quite excited. I have begun looking at class schedules and I will begin my first class in the fall.

Before I get ahead of myself, yes I will continue my coverage in the Chelsea and Dexter communities and I look forward to more great stories in the future.

Regards!
Daniel

Chelsea scouts donate time, supplies to Hearts Community Service

2010-05-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

For the past few months, Boy Scout Pack 435 has been planning a celebration honoring the 100-year birthday for Boy Scouts of America.

Pack 435 decided to collect 100 different items that were on the wish list for Hearts Community Service. Nancy Harris, director for HCS, was presented with the collection.

"I was so amazed and pleased with the thoughtfulness and generosity from the scouts and their parents. Hearts received towels, toys, clothing, dishes and food, all of which will be given out to families and individuals who have lost everything and are starting all over again,” she said. “The need is great out there and these young scouts were so happy to help others. What a wonderful thing for the scouts to take on.”

Scouts launch recycling intiative in Dexter

2010-05-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

Six members of Dexter Cadette Girl Scout Troop 580 are earning the Silver Award for launching a recycling project to help raise funds for Mill Creek Middle School.

The scouts are collecting garbage that will be “upcycled” by a company called Terracycle and made into products such as tote bags, backpacks, lunchboxes, notebooks, etc.

The Silver Award is the highest award that can be earned by middle school students. In order to complete the Silver Award, each person in the troop has to contribute at least 50 project hours. The scouts have expanded their project to other schools in the Dexter school district.

“We are hoping to get a lot of donations at the end of the school year when teachers and students will be cleaning out their desks,” scout Kourtney Koch said.

For each wrapper or piece of trash collected, the troop is credited two cents by Terracycle. Troop 580 has selected Mill Creek Middle School to be the non-profit organization to benefit from its efforts. Some of the items being collected are resealable bags (any brand); food storage containers (any brand), drink pouches, snack bar wrappers, chip bags, cookie package wrappers and yogurt containers, among others. For a full list of items visit the Dexter Community Education Website and click on community fliers. E-mail dextergs580@gmail.com to arrange a pick up.

History Lesson

2010-05-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

On April 2o, the Chelsea Area Historical Society presented two programs to second grade students at North Creek Elementary. Janet Ogle-Mater and Gerri Anderson conducted a play with the children about the settlement of Chelsea.

Two other CAHS members, George Till and Cynthia Furlong Reynolds, engaged the students with a number of early American antiques while talking about immigration, pioneers, and the Civil War. During the remainder of the day, second grade teachers held class in “one-room schoolhouses” and taught as in olden days.

Johns takes up challenge after reading staff writer's column

2010-05-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

By Sean Dalton
Heritage Newspapers

In the newspaper business, unless you get a phone call from someone criticizing your work or letters to the editor in response to a specific article, you often wonder if what you’re writing is having an impact.

Every once in awhile we get thank you cards or a reader fills out a questionnaire (yes, we do actually see those and take them to heart so keep the feedback coming), but something completely different happened to me last week when I picked up the phone.

Dexter resident Patti Johns called and shared an extraordinary bit of feedback in response to my Jan. 7 editorial, “Make Faith in Action your 2010 resolution.”

Since reading my editorial at the outset of the year, she has been shopping once each month for Faith in Action. After her grocery shopping is done, she takes a separate basket in arm and fills it with $25 to $30 worth of items that FIA desperately needs to address the seemingly invisi-ble needy families of Chelsea and Dexter.

“There was just something about the way that you wrote it,” Johns told me.

She almost used that issue to light her fireplace before fishing it out of the kindling pile to give the column a second read, which I guess did the trick.

“I knew I had to start doing it … I said, ‘You have to do this,’ to myself,” she added.

As I talked to Johns it became obvious to me that she possessed a key component within her character that capitalized on my writing.

Johns was on aid to dependent children 30 years ago, just like my own mother.

Like my own mother she worked hard to improve her lot in life and eventually got back on her own two feet. She found herself in a situation where she and her daughter and her new husband and his two children united as a family and thrived.

The thought had never really occurred to her until recently, but what if she hadn’t had that support early on?

President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal program was putting food on the ta-ble and clothes on her daughter’s back, while friends and neighbors were helping to fill in when she couldn’t be there, like when her daughter needed to be taken to or picked up from the bus stop when she needed to be at work.

“I’ve been there where I didn’t have any money to put in the gas tank,” Johns said. “At one point I thought my husband was paying the house payments, which he wasn’t. By the third month they said they’re coming to take our house away.”

Despite being as “poor as poor can be,” Johns said she wasn’t previously aware of the need that FIA tries to meet in the county.

Like so many residents, she had a hard time seeing through a surface of well kept lawns, a polished downtown district and strongly supported schools to the truth: no matter where you are there are people who need a hand.

Johns said she has learned a lot about FIA since extending that hand. She has gotten even more adamant about sale shopping, trying to make her $30 stretch to $35 or $40 worth of canned goods, crackers and toiletries.

“It’s just something now that I think I have to do every month,” Johns said. “Right now a lot of people have lost their jobs and some of them are getting them back, but not everybody.”

As a nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Johns sees another dimension to need – people who can’t afford their medications.

“We see a lot of people who can’t afford their medicine who go off of it,” she said. “We contact a social worker because they really aren’t making it. Patients become quiet and discontinue (their medications) because they don’t have the money to pay for it.”

Poverty is a complicated issue that affects all areas of someone’s life. I wonder how many of those patients that Johns came across were skipping their medication so they could afford to eat.

Perhaps the food she is donating each month is sparing a family somewhere in Dexter or Chelsea from having to make such difficult decisions.

Maybe Johns is providing that last nudge of support for some young mother somewhere going through the same thing that she went through.

I would like to personally congratulate Patti Johns for bolstering my faith in a number of ways.Hopefully folks will recognize her at the grocery store and be inspired to take a basket in arm for the sake of the county’s invisible needy.

Excitement in the air

2010-04-30T09:33:00.001-07:00

Mobile Blog 1
April 30, 2010
I am outside Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor to get a general feel for the president's visit tommorow. Already you can tell security is tight. Just approaching the gates to the stadium I was asked what the purpose of my business is. Overall there is an excitement in the air that radiates with the students. A lot of students are excited the president is speaking directly to them tommorow.

Mobile uploads

2010-04-29T20:42:00.001-07:00

The Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader has set up their mobile blog just in time for President Obama's commencement speech at U of M! Check back with us throughout the morning as our editor, Daniel Lai, posts about his experience.

"That's some high quality H2O!"

2010-04-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

Chelsea City Water Department assistant Craig McGregor attended the American Water Works Association’s regional meeting in Kalamazoo April 15, where samples of the city's drinking water were entered into competition.
The city's water competed against other municipalities from all over the region. The judging criteria included best appearance and best taste of municipal water at room temperature.
Chelsea's water also took first place in the regional competition in 2008.The City Water Department will enter into the state finals competition in August.

Earth Day snapshots in Dexter

2010-04-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Every school at Dexter Community Schools planted trees donated by Lodi Farms in honor of Earth Day. All of the students participated in digging and planting the tree. The students will also maintain the trees for growth.

Auction will benefit Chelsea Hospital

2010-04-23T14:43:00.000-07:00

The 25th annual Chelsea Community Hospital spring auction will take place May 8 at the IBEW Local 252 Hall, 7920 Jackson Road. Proceeds from the event will help fund the equipment and facilities necessary to begin providing chemotherapy infusion services for cancer patients at CCH. To date, $300,000 of the needed $500,000 has been raised through generous donations from the community, the Chelsea Community Hospital Auxiliary, hospital special events, and
“It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” fundraiser held in Dexter in 2009.

The silent auction, raffle, strolling buffet, and dessert bar will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the exciting live auction at 8:30 p.m., conducted by auctioneer Steve Gross.

The event is themed “Rhinestone Cowboy,” and guests are encouraged to don their favorite cowboy gear. Prizes for best men’s and women’s costumes will be awarded. Scott Moore and Misha Strauss-Moore are this year’s auction chairpersons. The co-chairpersons are Kathy and Lou Magagna. Honorary chairpersons for the event are Patrick Conlin and Elaine Economou.

“The auction is a fun night to get together with fellow community members and support the hospital at the same time,” said Judy Stratman, director of development. “It’s a win-win situation when the guests have fun and support our new infusion center at the same time.”

Stratman emphasized that all the money raised in Chelsea stays in Chelsea.

“Our community has really stepped up to show their support for our new infusion center. We’re so grateful for their generosity and we’re pleased to tell them that every penny they donate goes directly to the betterment of our community hospital, here in Chelsea,” she said.

Many local community members and businesses have generously donated items for the event. Live auction highlights include trips to New York City, Savannah, Ga. and Cancun, Mexico, along with jewelry from La Jolla Fine Jewelry and a gourmet dinner prepared in your home by executive chef Bill Collins of Barton Hills.

Silent auction and raffle highlights include original artwork from local artists, golf at several local golf courses, Cedar Point tickets, bikes, recreational equipment, and more.Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased by calling Patty Roberts at 1-734-475-4040, Ext. 3542, or e-mail proberts@cch.org. After May 15, the entire auction program will be available online at www.cch.org/events

Blessing of the Bikes set for weekend

2010-04-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

Listen up road hogs, the St. Louis Center's annual Blessing of the Bikes event takes place this weekend in Chelsea. For all of those who plan on cruising the blue highways this summer, I encourage you to stop by the St. Louis Center for an hour or two and receive your blessing for a safe riding season. In addition, your donation helps a worthy cause. It's two birds with one stone. Good food, good music and a great way to start off the summer vacation season.

If you want more information about this event, visit http://www.stlouiscenter.org/.

Heritage staff win SPJ awards

2010-04-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Three Heritage Newspapers reporters swept the sports columnist category in the Society of Professional Journalists Detroit chapter’s 2009 Excellence in Journalism Awards.

At a dinner held April 14 at the San Marino Club in Troy, Jana Miller, Mike Larson and Don Richter won first through third place, respectively, in the sports columnist category in print, Class B, with a circulation less than 100,000.

In addition, reporter Gerald LaVaute won third place for investigative reporting for his piece “Police Compensation Comparison.”

LaVaute is a staff writer for The View in Belleville and The Milan News-Leader.

Miller, a former Saline and Milan sports reporter, is a copy editor and reporter for The Manchester Enterprise. Judges noted that all three of her entries were award worthy. They were “Hush, hush controversy brings sex into sports,” “Academics and athletics can mix” and “Gender equity in sports.”

Richter, a former sports reporter for The Chelsea Standard and The Dexter Leader, now covers sports for The Saline Reporter and The Milan News-Leader. His winning piece was his farewell column to Chelsea and Dexter readers.

Larson, a sports reporter for The Ann Arbor Journal, a new publication launched July 9, 2009, by Heritage Newspapers, won for his column “Medal More than Award.” This is the first award produced from the A2 Journal. The other Heritage publications have a long history of winning journalism awards in the SPJ contest, as well as in the Michigan Press Association Better Newspapers Contest and Suburban Newspapers of America editorial contest.

This year’s competition was judged by the North Central Florida Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, SPJ Minnesota Pro Chapter and Chicago Headline Club.

More than 100 Excellence in Media awards were given to area journalists during the banquet.

Alice in Wonderland coming to Chelsea

2010-04-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

Our freelance photographer, Burrill Strong, recently captured a few behind the scenes images of "Alice in Wonderland, Jr." as performed by The Chelsea Area Players Youth Theatre.

Here is the link to the photos:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Saline-MI/The-Chelsea-Standard-and-Dexter-Leader/286065689869?ref=ts

The Chelsea Area Players Youth Theatre presents “Alice In Wonderland Jr." at Beach Middle School, 445 Mayer Drive, Chelsea. Performances are April 16 at 7 p.m.; April 17 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and April 18 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. They are available at Chelsea Pharmacy, online at www.chelseaareaplayers.org, by phone at 1-800- 838-3006, and at the door.

Weighty Tasks

2010-04-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like personally trying something to really ram it home.

Today, after a lovely lunch at Common Grill catching up with a former newsy co-worker, I headed to the Chelsea fire station for a story.

Originally, I thought it would be an easy, two phone call deal, but the chief asked me to come to the firehouse to speak to him personally about it instead.

So I did.

And, if you've been reading this blog for a while, you know I have nothing but the utmost respect for my fire department.

I know, I know, it's the Chelsea Area Fire Authority, but, for the purposes of this blog, department it shall be.

Knowing most of the guys at the fire house and having seen them in action on numerous occasions, it's one of the many things that gives me peace of mind every night.

I don't want to give away the gist of the story but I had NO idea that these guys carry 75 pounds of stuff on their backs. Think about that. The gear, hats, masks and air tanks they wear are heavy.

Really heavy.

I guess in all my fire coverage, it never occurred to me how heavy.

Now I know.

Especially when I attempted to pick up an almost 100-pound bag that was filled with fire hose. Of course, I had no idea it weighed that much. On the outside, it didn't look that heavy.

But looks can be deceiving.

Even the air tanks they wear on their backs aren't like picking up a plastic bag overfilled with canned goods.

These babies are heavy, too.

And those bags they arrive with when out on a medical call?

They weight between 50-75 pounds.

Yikes.

Think about tromping up a couple flights of stairs carrying 50-75 pounds, adrenalin racing because there's a person in trouble.

Now I know that pumping adrenalin can give people super powers because I actually moved a car one time in this state, but, I wasn't wearing 75 pounds of stuff and carrying another 100 pounds.

And I was 30 years younger.

Today, just attempting to lift some of that stuff off the ground was a struggle.

And these guys carry some of this stuff multiple times a day.

So next time you see a fire truck with its bells and sirens whirling, thank your lucky stars that these guys can carry this stuff and please pull over and get out of their way.

It's a weighty job.

Chelsea Orchestra show sounds promising

2010-04-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

As I am slowly becoming integrated into the Chelsea and Dexter communities, I am learning something new every day. There is definitely a lot going on these two communities. For instance, the Chelsea Orchestra is performing their hometown concert April 17 at the Washington Street Education Center. The concert takes place at 7 p.m.

The Chelsea House Orchestra consists of very talented musicians from Chelsea High School. Throughout the year and across the United States, CHO performs its own unique versions of “Celtic with a Kick” music to thousands of people at festivals, fairs and other public and private venues.

Under the direction of the award winning musical director, Jed Fritzemeier, the CHO provides an eclectic mix of music and movement with the majority of the music derived from traditional Celtic sources.

The Beach Middle School Fiddle Club, under the direction of Nathan Peters, will open the show with its own lively version of fiddle music.

Tickets are on sale now and are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased via e-mail at tickets@chelseahouseorchestra.org or in person at Chelsea Pharmacy,1125 South Main St.

An incredible feat

2010-03-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

The staff at the Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader has recently learned that Dexter resident Eric Kumbier is on a one-year teaching position in Seoul, Korea. Kumbier is a 2005 graduate of Dexter High School and graduated from the University of Michigan in 2009 with a degree in secondary education and social studies. He teaches kindergarten at a private school in Seoul. Follow his blog at:

http://ericsasianexpedition.blogspot.com/

Where is the target?

2010-03-08T14:25:00.000-08:00

So there I was Friday night, sitting in my car idling at a red light and happily going over the lyrics in my head for my band's gig when all of a sudden the truck behind me decides to plow into my car. I don't use the term "plow" lightly. This guy, who had a yellow light mind you, decided his life was much more important than anyone else's, and decided to gun it to beat the red light. Well, when he did so, he ended up practically destroying my car. The bumper was torn off and the entire backside was smashed in. The trunk won't even close without a rope to tie it down. That was not the way I wanted to start my weekend.
Fortunately no one got hurt. And, despite my family trying to cheer me up, the accident crushed my spirit for the night's show. I did my best to get through the set, but instead of hanging out with friends afterward, I just went home and crawled into bed.
This is not the first time someone has decided that my nice blue car, affectionately known as "The Extreme," needed a few bumps, scratches and dents.
Since moving to Michigan in 2007, every single winter someone has slammed their car into mine. Last year I was unlucky enough to be driving by a K-mart parking lot when some new teen driver pulled out right in front of me and slammed into my front bumper, ripping it from its hinges.
Then, three months ago, a relative backed into my car while it was parked in her driveway. The damages? $1,000!
But, of course in this great state of Michigan, you all have something called "No fault." So in other words, take heed drivers, you can drive your car straight into someone else's if you feel compelled to and Michigan will tell you, "That's OK son, here in Michigan no one is at fault."
My insurance begs to differ with this "no fault" law.
Since moving here, I've had to pay more out of pocket for someone else wrecking my car than I ever had to while living in Texas.
"No fault" is the biggest scam I've ever heard. If you hit, touch, ding, scrape, bang or otherwise affect someone else's car in any form, it's your fault and you should have to pay.

Flying the unfriendly skies

2010-03-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

This past week has been a little rough for myself. Two weeks ago, I received the horrible news that my grandma on my dad's side passed away in California. She was 82 years old. At this point, we aren't sure what happend. Needless to say, I had to book the quickest flight out of Michigan to catch the funeral, which took place Friday.
Flying has never been one of my favorite things to do. Other than being the quickest way to visit with relatives on the other side of the country or down south in Texas, I would choose a car or a train over an airplane any day. For starters, they cram you in these little teenie tiny spaces that leave no leg room.
And, if you're lucky enough to board a plane that still has first class, you get to walk past all the business elite suits sipping on their wine and champaigne and snacking on a fish dinner while you are regulated to row 24-E at the back of the plane next to a mom with two screaming babies.
If that doesn't sell you on the excitement of air travel, try holding your tongue as the person in front of you, who seems to be oblivious to the fact that we're all crammed into a flying sardine can, reclines his chair up against your knees.
Oh, and by the way, if you are one of the unlucky travelers who is running late and did not stop to grab something to eat before your 3 hour and 45 minute flight, you can forget filling up on airline peanuts and soda pop.
That's right, apparently the economy is so bad that airlines no longer offer their free bags of peanuts. Instead, flight attendents try to pawn off $6 canisters of Pringles and Oreos. I guess if I was hungry enough, I would take the bait.
I never understood why airlines served peanuts anyway. I go months at a time without eating peanuts and as soon as I step on a plane all of a sudden these crewmen think, "this guy looks like he needs some peanuts." What makes them think, 'We're in the air! Get them peanuts! Hurry!'
Luckly the flight remained relatively calm and we got to our destination at a relatively decent time (after sitting on the plane in Chicago for an hour due to mechnical problems).
It's not all bad, but it's certainly not an efficient way of traveling.

Web poll update

2010-03-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

An update on how our readers responded to our Web poll questions.

What's the first thing you read in your newspaper?

Front Page: 50 percent

Obituaries: 20 percent

Police Briefs: 18 percent

Sports: 11 percent

(44 votes cast)

How often do you travel for vacation?

Twice a year or more: 35 percent

Once a year: 28 percent

Once every few years: 21 percent

Once every couple of years: 16 percent

(80 votes cast)

How often do you eat out a week?

Less than once a week: 36 percent

Three or more times a week: 29 percent

Twice a week: 22 percent

Once a week: 13 percent

(132 votes cast)

What's the key to getting rich?

Hard work: 37 percent

Luck: 22 percent

Ingenuity: 21 percent:

Education: 20 percent

(76 votes cast)

What's your biggest worry in the new year?

Michigan's employment outlook: 38 percent

The nation's economic turnaround: 26 percent

Funding of local schools: 22 percent

The outcome of this November's elections: 13 percent

(76 votes cast)

How should schools address budget constraints?

Reduce staff salaries: 32 percent

Pay to play: 28 percent

Offer more online classes: 22 percent

Cut extracurricular activities: 18 percent

(108 votes cast)

School district transportation meeting tonight

2010-02-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

Expect coverage of the DCS transportation meeting tonight dealing with moving the district's transportation facility to the main school campus. We'll also recap what happened at the previous couple of meetings, all of which will be summed up during a fourth meeting on Feb. 25.

Look here for an update, keep your eyes peeled for the story in the paper or show up yourself and go so far as putting your own two cents into the mix. For details on time and location, or to take a look at the district's transportation study check out the following link.

Reimagining transportation in Dexter.

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2010-02-17T13:54:00.000-08:00

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Chocolate Extravaganza hits Chelsea this weekend

2010-02-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

I'm excited that one of my first "big" events happening in Chelsea since taking over as editor for the Chelsea Standard is something called The Chocolate Extravaganza. Anyone who knows me, knows I love sweets -- from cookies to chocolate and ice cream. It's not the best vice to have, but it's also not the worst.
Anyway, it seems like there is going to be a lot going on downtown on Saturday. Roughly 36 businesses are going to have some sort of chocolate-related activity. It's the perfect venue for young and old alike to enjoy something fun for Valentine's weekend, especially if you have to work.
Here is a just a sampling of what will take place:
At Aberdeen Bike and Fitness, samples of brownies and a sale on outdoor clothing, bikes and accessories will take place.

Bumbles Dry Goods will offer samples of rabbit-shaped chocolate cookies and a free silver heart with a $10 purchase.

The Chelsea Center for the Arts is offering chocolate treats and workshops from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Participants can create a Valentine’s Day card for $17. From 1 to 3 p.m. participants can make a coiled wire heart. The fee is $30.

The Chelsea District Library will have samples of local chocolate treats and books on chocolate available to read.

Chelsea First Methodist Church will host a free bacon and eggs breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. complete with chocolate muffins.

The New Chelsea Market will have samples of Zingerman’s candy bars from 10 a.m. to noon, Backyard gourmet chocolates and caramels from noon to 3 p.m. and heart-shaped chips and salsa from 3 to 5 p.m.

Chelsea Village Hardware will have samples of chocolate molded tools. Customers can look for items that have a red heart attached to them for a sale price.

Chelsea Woodworking will celebrate its four-year anniversary with free cake and treats, free gifts with purchase and storewide discounts on select items.

Cherry Optometry will offer chocolate covered cherries and a raffle for a pair of Polaroid sunglasses.

The Chelsea Teddy Bear Company will offer chocolate treats and T-shirt design for bears ($6). A 25 to 50 percent off sale on chocolate-named bears will also take place.

Cleary’s Pub will offer samples of hot chocolate.

Comfort Inn of Chelsea is offering room rate specials with chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of wine with a Jacuzzi room.

The Common Grill is offering free brownie bites at the back door. The menu will feature chocolate martinis and desserts.

Dayspring Gifts will offer samples of Gilbert’s chocolates; free potted violets with a $20 purchase, or $3.99 each.

The Garden Mill will host “make your own chocolate treats.” Participants can celebrate the Year of the Tiger with a free “lucky” chocolate coin and a sale on selected items.

Gemini Salon and Day Spa will a chocolate fountain and a paraffin hand wax treatment, free carnations, a raffle and chair massages.

Gigi’s Flowers will also offer a chocolate fountain and treats.

Gourmet Chocolate Café will have dozens of handmade chocolate treats to taste and 10 percent off of purchases.

Heydlauffs will offer samples of Jiffy Mix chocolate muffins baked fresh in a Heydlauff appliance.

La Jolla Fine Jewelry will offer samples of gourmet chocolates, cookies and sparkling cider.

Merkel’s Furniture & Carpet One is offering samples of homemade brownies and coffee.

Mike’s Deli is offering a free homemade chocolate treat with a meal purchase.

Interesting village meeting

2010-02-10T18:56:00.000-08:00

I wanted to talk about the Dexter village council meeting a bit earlier than this, but hey - the story won't be out until tomorrow.

Was very interesting reading about what the state Boundary Commission took issue with in the village's legal definition of the village boundaries. I agree with Joe Semifero's quietly voiced criticism of OHM's work here. I'm not knocking Rhett Gronevelt or his colleagues, but it's kind of surprising that their work didn't pass the state surveyor's scrutiny. Who knows. Maybe OHM did the best with what they had not knowing whether the village would want to pay additional costs to have another surveyor come out and clean things up. Sometimes consultants and other contract workers for a municipality try to keep their costs down for various reasons.

I'm still working on a story about the Westridge residents, who jammed Monday's meeting to capacity. Apparently there are concerns with the Border to Border Trail and connector project. A design option has residents concerned about "transients" wandering into the subdivision or parking en masse along curbs, among other things. This should be an interesting one when it's done.

Also look for the next Take Care article here on my blog before it goes to print next week. I wanted to get it in this week but with our Moving Forward special section deadline days away and other personal matters going on it had to wait a bit. I hope it's as interesting to read as it has been to research and (eventually) write.

Another note on Moving Forward, my article will feature Palmer Ford heavily and also Matt LaFontaine who has a huge presence in this county, so for those of you who usually toss the special section (I know you're out there - *glares*), you might want to hang onto this one and look through it. The new format is much tighter and much more focused than it has been the previous two years. All of the Washtenaw writers are responsible for at least an entire section.

No - I won't tell you which one. You'll have to read all of them.

Review hijinks

2010-02-08T15:40:00.000-08:00

It seems that special writer Crystal Hayduk also attended and wrote a review of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, so expect a hybrid review, with me talking about some of my observations in the first portion and then Crystal actually reviewing the play. It's kind of like I went as a news reporter to see how attendance was and she handled the rest.

As I said in my "review," more people need to go see 25APCSB, particularly this weekend. It's a comedy with an odd little Breakfast Club love story at the play's gooey center. More importantly it was a very fun experience. I'm just glad they don't randomly choose audience members to "participate" in the bee.

If you're scratching your head at that point, read the review.

Anyway, off to Dexter village's meeting in a bit. I'll throw something up here when I get back.

Great evening in Dexter, Encore play review coming soon

2010-02-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a night at the Encore Musical Theatre and one of the great restaurants in town for a wonderful time. It was a blast watching The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (not actually a spelling bee ... that's the name of the musical).

I'll have a review done sometime tomorrow. I was surprised and disappointed at how few people were in attendance, considering what a great show it is. I know it's not Oklahoma! or Sweeney Todd, but it's just as excellent a show. Please pass the word along that the 25APCSB is worth seeing, especially with Valentine's Day coming up next weekend.

Anyway, I'll talk more about it in my review. For now I'm still coming down from the Terry B's experience. Nearly three years as the Dexter reporter and I'm just now discovering this place. Amazing. Thanks for the recommendation Bill!

News now on Facebook

2010-02-05T11:18:00.000-08:00

Hello avid readers,
The Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader now have Facebook pages. In addition to content you can elect to receive from our blogs and our Web site, www.heritage.com, we will post fresh information, stories and videos for your enjoyment on Facebook. Soon we will also join Twitter and offer "tweets" of fun events and stories in town. To see all the excitement in Chelsea and Dexter, visit www.heritage.com, click on The Chelsea Standard or Dexter Leader and then click on "follow us" on the Facebook icon to the right of the screen.
As always, Sean and I will strive to bring the people of Chelsea and Dexter the latest and greatest happenings.

Daniel

Back-blogged: Government, Dexter Garden Club

2010-02-05T10:10:00.000-08:00

Village government, and how we cover it

I wanted to provide an update on our coverage of the Village Council's fire prevention discussions, which some argue we botched a bit two issues ago. On page 7-A of this week's paper there is a clearer picture in terms of written copy of what the discussion was about.

So far feedback from the village indicates that our followup clarified the issue much more effectively than our first story, which had a portion of the story in text and another portion of it in a video uploaded to the heritage.com video section.

This blog, video, Facebook and a number of other things are new tools that we intend on leveraging to provide you with a variety of content. In human-language, we're trying to provide more ways for you to get the news from us and we're trying to do it faster than before. You may not use all of these things - maybe you're just on Facebook, but don't Twitter. Or maybe you're a blog-crawling newspaper regular who doesn't even know what Facebook and Twitter are.

We want you to be able to use what's comfortable and familiar to you, which is why we're trying to branch into as many different means of digital communication as possible. And we want to get things out there quickly!

Dexter Garden Club teaches Generations Together pre-schoolers about plants

Thank you to Dexter's garden club for inviting me out to witness a really neat program. The children at Generations together got a really neat, dynamic lesson in the plant growth cycle. They also got to put on a play covering how the environment interacts with the plants, from the plucky gardener to the smiling sun (literally the smiling sun, played by one of the little kids holding a drawing of a sun on a pole). The event was capped off by the kids working with some plantings they had done last fall.

Check out the attached photos and the below video for more.

Launching "Adopt-a-farm" series

2010-02-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

Beginning this week, readers in the Heritage Newspapers western region coverage area will be offered a rare treat -- a look inside a real working farm. That's right folks, our award-winning "Adopt-a-farm" series is back.
In years past, this series was written by our former reporter, Ed Freundl. Ed is now off to bigger and better things, and it's now time for a new reporter to take up the challenge that is farming.
Back in 2009, I was approached by my boss, Michelle Rogers, and my colleague, Lisa Allmendinger, about the prospect of becoming the new "ag" reporter.
At first I was hesitant. Growing up in large cities most of my life, I didn't know the first thing about farming. In fact, the only time I have ever been on a farm was when my fourth grade class took a trip to a local dairy farm and my classmates and I got to milk the cow.
Since I didn't know much about farming, I wasn't sure if this was the best assignment for me. And when I was told I could pick a farm that interested me, my first question was, "what about a bee farm?"
I always heard those were cool.
Of course that suggestion didn't fly.
Instead, I was instructed to contact the Washtenaw County Farm Bureau, who could help pair me with a local farm. The result is what you will see in the coming months published online and in the pages of Heritage Newspapers.
Beginning this month, I am on a mission to better understand the intricacies of sheep farming. I will be visiting with Ken and Bonnie Hieber of Freedom Township once a month for the next several months as their sheep farm plans get underway.
Last week was my first experience to get up close and personal with the sheep. It was definitely interesting to see the sheep shearing process. Equally amusing was the look on Ken and Bonnie's faces when I asked if they raised both sheep and lambs (which I quickly learned were the same animal).
It will definitely be an adventure for this city-dweller to head into the unknown world of farmers. Truly it is terra incognita. Hopefully by the end of the series I will emerge unscathed and a little more knowledgeable about farming in Michigan.

Launching 'Take Care' series

2010-01-22T12:19:00.000-08:00

I'm proud to announce that a long pondered idea is finally coming to fruition. "Take Care" will be an ongoing series of columns about my experience with a number of health and fitness related areas, starting with chiropractic thanks to Dr. Bill and Jennifer Simpson of Simpson Family Chiropractic.

Photo caption: Dr. Bill's x-rays tell a disturbing story of my skeletal health. Read next week's Dexter Leader and Chelsea Standard for a more thorough initial look at what's going on inside of me.

I attended the grand opening of the Simpson's Dexter practice last month. Dr. Bill gave a tour and talked about what he does and what the equipment in his office is for. It was very intriguing to listen to him talk about some of the problems chiropractic care can address.

Many of you have probably seen me in person over the three or so years that I've been the Dexter, and to a lesser extent, Chelsea reporter. Let's be honest -- I'm fat, or at least I was much moreso during the autumn of 2008, when I started exercising regularly and eating much healthier. The hardwork has taken my physicality to a place at which I would use words like "overweight" or "flabby" to describe myself now, which is good progress.

Even now my health isn't 100 percent -- nowhere near it. I won't get into my health history here, because I'll be doing that in future updates and articles in the print editions of The Dexter Leader and Chelsea Standard. I do want to say that improving your health does not happen over night.

Let's repeat that together: repairing health does not happen over night. It takes years to put on weight, atrophy muscle, become inflexible and misalign bones and joints. Please follow this blog and read my print articles as we talk about the process of improving these areas. It has been worth the effort, as I feel completely different from how I felt 14 or 15 months ago.

There's still quite a ways to go. Thank you for reading. Hopefully you will watch my journey and take something away from it. We'll talk about my first evaluation, my first adjustment and my musculo-skeletal health in next week's papers.

Shameless plug

2010-01-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

My band, Delirious Love, and I will be performing from 8 to 10:30 p.m. at the Quarter Bistro in Ann Arbor Saturday. The Bistro is located at 300 S. Maple Road. The show is free, but I encourage anyone attending to patronize this restaurant. They have been very generous to our band.
Hope to see you there!

Help for Haiti

2010-01-20T11:20:00.000-08:00

Like many Americans, I was unaware of the devastation –– both physical and emotional –– an earthquake can do until I saw it first-hand on television last week.
During the CBS Nightly News telecast on Friday, I watched as anchor Katie Couric toured the ravaged parts of Haiti, visiting with injured children and families, victims of the 7.0 earthquake near the capital of Port-Au-Prince on Jan. 12.
I remember watching a little boy with a broken arm scream out “Why!” over and over again while he was holding Couric’s hand as medics tried to reset the bone.
It was one of the most powerful images of suffering I had seen on television in a long time.
The Red Cross estimates that more than 3 million people, a third of Haiti's population, may need immediate emergency assistance. In the face of such need, the Red Cross already has run out of medical supplies. More are on the way, but no one knows when they will arrive, or how many they will be too late to save.
In response to this devastating natural disaster, President Barack Obama has ordered a Marine Expeditionary Unit, consisting of about 1,100 U.S. Marines, to provide humanitarian assistance and security as attempts to bring in outside aid increase.
However, each of us should not simply take solace in the fact that some of our men and women in uniform are being deployed to provide relief –– we should all join the rescue effort. Each able American should find a way to help bring relief to a nation that is facing a dire situation that will only worsen without significant and immediate aid.
I encourage all of our readers to take up this cause and the Haitian recovery effort in some way, whether it is a direct donation or volunteering to help collect funds for a charity. Together, we can help make a difference for a nation where thousands of parents have been separated from their children. Some may never be reunited, and others will be physically and emotionally scarred for life.
As Americans, we must step up and help those who cannot help themselves. I have included a list of charities that are actively sending aid to the citizens of Haiti.

American Red Cross
www.redcross.org
You can make an automatic $10 donation to the Red Cross by texting "HAITI" to 90999. The money will be charged directly to your cell phone bill.

Catholic Relief Services
www.crs.org.

Doctors Without Borders
www.doctorswithoutborders.org.

UMCOR
Donations can be made online through the UMCOR Web site. Visit http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/, and click on the “Haiti Emergency” icon in the top right corner.

Want to partner with us?

2010-01-15T10:44:00.000-08:00

In these difficult economic times, many groups are hurting for funds. Thanks to state-wide budget cuts, public school systems across Michigan are in trouble. Many programs that we’ve learned to take for granted over the years – athletics, band, etc. – are under a heavy budget crunch.

So why not partner with The Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader – and help your organization raise needed cash?

We are offering $10 for every new one-year subscription to The Chelsea Standard or Dexter Leader that your group sells. That means $100 for only 10 orders; $500 for 50 orders; and $1,000 for 100 orders! There is no limit to our partnership. Sell 500 orders and we will give your organization $5,000.

We understand how difficult it is to raise money with the same old fund-raisers year after year. After all, families can only use so much wrapping paper and candles. The Saline reporter is the gift that lasts. This is why our fund-raising opportunity has such great value.

The Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader is delivered directly to the homes of our customers 52 times a year, with fresh content and local news and information that is important to the people that live and work and attend the schools in your community. We offer award-winning news coverage, including the areas best and most comprehensive sports sections. In addition, we offer discount coupons, entertainment news, classifieds and more, making a yearly subscription to The Saline reporter a fantastic value.

A one-year subscription to the Chelsea Standard or Dexter Leader is only $35. (A new subscriber is anyone who has not taken the newspaper in the past 90 days).

All you need to do is sell the order, fill out a provided form, collect payment and turn in the orders to us once a month. That’s all there is to it. We will cut your organization a check!

All we need to set up your group as an official partner is the following information:

A contact name and number from your organization
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A logo (in PDF format) for use in the printed materials, which we will supply your group for your sales effort.
It’s that simple.
To set your organization up as an official partner, please contact Bob Riddell at 734-246-0757 or e-mail briddell@heritage.com.

A New Year, a new day

2010-01-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

The New Year’s holiday certainly calls for celebration. It’s a time filled with happiness and hope, as we anticipate a new beginning. It’s also a time for planning and prioritizing our personal and professional as-pirations.
This week, many of us will make lists and set goals to better ourselves, and the lives of our families.
But let’s face it, there’s a big difference between wishes and reality.
I began planning for the New Year a month ago. I informed my girlfriend that this year was the year I will go to the gym and start working out more after work. Sure I say that every year, but I feel energized and ready to go this year. It’s not for a lack of trying in the past. I even bought a Wii Fit for the Nintendo Wii to try and motivate myself to workout in the comfort of my living room –– that lasted all of a week.
I also attempted to participate in the “Flat Belly Diet” a few months ago. That attempt lasted two days. Again, it wasn’t for a lack of trying. I just couldn’t get myself to drink a gallon of something called “sassy wa-ter” everyday for three days. In hindsight, I think I could drink a cup of gutter water and it would taste better than this “sassy water.”
But, I am not deterred. After looking at a few recent pictures taken over the holidays, that’s enough incentive to start doing something, even if it’s just learning how to eat better. Since moving to Michigan almost three years ago, I have gained about 13 pounds. I guess all that pizza and “on the go” meals have finally caught up to me.
I can just hear my mom: “You need to eat better.” Eating three square meals a day is not always the easiest task when you are on deadline.
For me, resolutions can be put into two categories, “should do,” or “will do.” For instance, I “should” make an effort to study for the GRE so I can apply to graduate school this year. However, I “will” find time to finish unpacking the boxes that currently fill the living room of my new apartment.
In order to make my weight loss resolution a reality, it must be moved from the “should do” column into the “will do” column. Like most of you, a lot of times my resolutions end up in the “should do” column, where they stay until I dust them off for the following year and the cycle repeats itself.
“Should do” resolutions rarely inspire us, but instead cause anxiety and dread. “Should do” resolutions are usually less likely to become a reality.
A “will do” resolution, however, is something we believe is possible.
If I have time, resources and drive to exercise this year, I could shed 10 pounds by 2011. Believing that I will achieve my goal is the first step to a successful resolution.
In order to prepare for this year’s resolution, I found an apartment that has a built-in gym down the hall from me. If I pay for it with my rent, I should use it. I also started reading articles in “Men’s Health” magazine to inspire me. I have also spent more time in the grocery store looking at the nutrition information on food products versus throwing something in my cart because it looks good.
I’m confident that I will approach 2010 with an open mind. And for those who have also decided to make weight loss their goal for the new year, you can follow my progress online via periodic entries in our new online blog, “Inside the Newsroom at Chelsea and Dexter,” at http://chelseanewsroom.blogspot.com/
We will also soon be posting a link to the blog directly from our Web site at www.heritage.com. In addition to my weekly posts, Chelsea resident and Heritage staff writer Lisa Allmendinger will also contribute as well as our staff writer, Sean Dalton.
I encourage readers to check out our blog and leave us a comment or two. For all my fellow readers who are committed to a resolution this year, good luck!

Career move well worth it

2009-12-29T13:03:00.000-08:00

It’s hard to believe that the new year marks 10 years since I graduated high school. It feels like just yesterday when I was sitting in chemistry class trying to decipher the mathematical formulas my teacher was writing on the board while hitting on the girl sitting next to me.
Those were different times back then.
If I were to travel back to May 26, 2000 to meet up with myself at my high school graduation, I doubt I would believe where I would end up 10 years in the future.
I was one of those students who had it all figured out. I was going to be a history teacher and travel the world. Well, as you can see, that plan went in one door and out the other. By the time I was a sophomore in college, I had already “officially” declared a different major four times. I was the typical conflicted college student who did not know what he wanted out of life.
It wasn’t until late in my junior year of college when I decided to pick a major and stick with it. It’s a good thing I did too.
I’ve always enjoyed writing. And, depending on who you talk to, they will tell you I’ve always been good at it. My mom fondly recalls to friends and family the story of how, when I was a very young boy, I developed a love for paper to the point where I always had a stack of it clinched tightly between my little chubby fingers.
On one particular windy day, while crossing the street with my mom and sister, a big gust of wind blew by and ripped the papers from my hand scattering them in the street. As mom frantically tried to gather the papers and get her children safely across the busy street, all I could muster was: “My papers! My papers!”
Years later, I remember watching an old black and white movie at my grandparents house while visiting from Texas. It was called “Deadline USA” and starred Humphrey Bogart in a classic role that depicted true journalistic talent. The film follows Bogart’s character, Ed Hutcheson, a tough editor for the New York Day, who is stung into a full-fledged crusade against a gangster. I’m assuming that’s where my love affair with printed newspapers began.
During my junior year in high school, I got the chance to be a real life Ed Hutcheson. Unbeknownst to the student body, at the end of my sophomore year, our school’s athletic director and principal were involved in a highly unethical and illegal operation. In order to recruit a winning football team the previous year, the athletic director lured students to our school with gifts and free tuition, while the principal told all the teachers to give the athletes passing grades so they could graduate, regardless if the students earned the grade or not.
My journalism teacher, Ms. DeLong, informed our class that several teachers did not want to talk to the press, but would talk to the student newspaper. My colleagues and I hit the ground running and soon published the story on the front page of the student paper. In the end, the principal and athletic director were forced to resign, and some students were told to hand over their diplomas. Justice was served.
Because of one teacher, my interest in journalism continues to thrive. It is why I have enjoyed working in cities and towns to tell stories. That is what true journalism is about. It is not just about the good, and it is not just about the bad.
I never expected my career choice would lead me down the path of rural America.
Though I still aspire to make it to the New York Times someday, I have found joy in reporting on the lesser-known individuals who make up America’s heartland. From the farmers who toil in the fields day and night, to the police officers and firefighters who dedicate their lives to protect us, these are the people I’m interested in reporting on.
Every community and every individual has a story to tell. And each of these stories is a small part of a larger story that defines the community. The responsibility of the community journalist is to find and report on these stories.
As 2010 heads underway, I look forward to working with the people of Chelsea and Dexter as you let me into your lives and into your community to tell your story.

Compassion in the Community

2009-12-26T16:53:00.000-08:00

You may not know these two guys, but if you see them on the street, say thank you.

I won't give the whole story away, because I want you to read it in Thursday's Chelsea Standard but, suffice it to say that because of Matt Rose, a Chelsea fireman, and State Trooper Josh Reeber, two little kid's Christmases were saved.

And, I also want to give a HUGE shout out to Tony Muniz, store associate at Pamida, Tim Kinney, assistant store manager at Pamida, Smith's Towing, and several local residents who heard what happened and wanted to help out, too.

Dec. 25 - Lisa's Musings on Every Day Life

2009-12-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning. Was hoping for snow, but I guess rain, slop and muddy dog feet will have to suffice.
In keeping with my reused, recycled and repurposed Christmas this year, the pups were given two not-so-tiny reindeer purchased previously at a post-Christmas discount.
They lasted about 10 minutes.
Ryan, the older and larger of the two Tollers, delights in destroying anything with a squeakie inside, and had his brown reindeer ripped apart in about 10 minutes.
Driver, the younger one with the white toy, let his last a little longer. Technically speaking, he didn't ruin it, Ryan did, but once the innards began spewing on the floor, he joined in.
Merry Christmas, everyone.

Six Christmases

2009-12-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

All of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is finally catching up to me. After standing in long lines at the store, spending way too much money on gifts and attempting to wrap said gifts for countless relatives, I'm exhausted, broke and sick. The sickness I can attribute to my blitz 72 hour visit to Texas to see my mom and all my friends. Everyday I was up at 8:30 a.m. to spend the majority of the day with mom. In the evening, I would go out to a bar with my friends and hang out. This, of course, would end up going on until 3 a.m. sometimes. Upon returning to Michigan on Tuesday evening, the lack of sleep finally caught up to me. It is the season of giving, so someone must have sneezed in a Christmas card envelope, sealed it up and shipped it my way. Thanks! Nothing like a nice pounding headache to get you in the spirit of the holiday.
But for me, this year it's not ONE Christmas, it's a whopping six! Yes, six fun-filled chances to hear the same stories told over and over again, and six chances to listen to relatives bicker over who is going to cook dinner.
For anyone who has seen the holiday movie "Four Christmases" starring Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn, it fails in comparison to my Christmas. We kick things off at 6 p.m. tonight with Christmas Eve Mass. The mass is the highlight of the evening because it's nice to see people come celebrate the true meaning of the holiday.
But then it's off to dad's, where he is sure to grill me and my brother about our band, and why my sister chose to stay in Texas with my mom for Christmas instead of coming to his place (thanks sis!).
On Christmas morning, it's off to dad's again for breakfast before heading to my aunt's for lunch and gift exchange. In the evening, my girlfriend and I will head to her mom's house for dinner before heading back to our apartment for our own private gift exchange.
On Dec. 26, we wrap everything up with a visit to the GF's dad's house and another stop to visit friends from Chicago.
Of course I can't complain. After all, this is the season to spread glad tidings ... and maybe some germs.
Merry Christmas ya'll!

Daniel

Christmas 2009

2009-12-19T18:58:00.000-08:00

I had a little help from my puppy, Driver, as I strung popcorn for my Christmas tree, er, tree branch. It was a first for both of us.
This year, I decided not to spend any money on Christmas, so the tree came from my property, the decorations were found in nature, handmade, recycled or repurposed.
Merry Christmas to all.

Welcome

2009-12-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

Hello readers!
Inside the News Room is the newest edition of blogs for Heritage Newspapers. It will feature submissions from staff members at the Chelsea Standard and Dexter Leader. Blog entries will focus on news and events in our coverage area. We will also post community submissions and other "fun" facets detailing life inside and outside the news room. Check back soon for regular updates.

Daniel Lai
Copy Editor