Press Release

May 8, 2026

Move eliminates last majority-minorty district in the state

LANSING, Mich., May 8, 2026 — Yesterday, the Republican-led Tennessee legislature passed a new U.S. Congressional map, splitting the last and only Black-majority district into three Republican-leaning districts. This follows a trend led by Republicans to disenfranchise voters, especially voters of color.  

“This new map is about a brazen power grab — it most certainly has absolutely nothing to do with fair representation. By breaking apart communities of color, Republicans are trying to rig the system before a single vote is cast. Every American deserves an equal voice and fair representation in Congress, regardless of their ZIP code or the color of their skin,” said state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw), chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus.

This move follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais to dismantle staple provisions in the Voting Rights Act that ensured non-discriminatory voting and representation practices across the country. 

“The erosion of key protections in the Voting Rights Act opened the door for states to pursue maps like this with fewer safeguards against discrimination. That makes it even more important that we remain vigilant in defending fair representation and equal access to the ballot box here in Michigan,” said state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), 1st vice chairperson of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus.

Under the previous map, about 60% of voters in the district, which included the whole city of Memphis, were Black. While Republicans claim the redraw was prompted by population and politics, Democrats have been adamant that the move deprives the region’s Black community of representation in Congress.

“When communities that have historically been able to elect representatives of their choice are carved apart and scattered across multiple districts, it raises serious concerns about whether voters are being denied meaningful representation. Representation should reflect communities rather than dilute their voices for political advantage,” said state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), chair of the Detroit Caucus.

Nationally, the Trump Administration and Republican-led states have repeatedly taken steps toward redistricting. This new map could ensure Tennessee sends no Democrats to Congress next year.

“We are seeing a coordinated effort across the country to redraw districts in ways that entrench political power rather than strengthen democracy. Voters should be choosing their elected officials, not watching politicians manipulate district lines to silence opposition and guarantee outcomes before elections even begin,” said state Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit), historian of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus and vice chair of the Detroit Caucus.

Press Release

April 8, 2026

May 1 – May 23, 2026 · Albion Arts Center · 107 East Cass Street, Albion, MI

ALBION, MI — The Albion Arts Commission is proud to announce Albion P.O.V., a
photography exhibition celebrating the talent of local photographers and honoring some of Albion’s rich photographic history. The show runs May 1 through May 23, 2026, at the Albion Arts Center, 107 East Cass Street, Albion, MI.

Featuring several community members, this exhibition invites visitors to experience their Point Of View. From still life’s to sweeping landscapes, each image offers a distinct point of viewrooted in place and community.

Opening Reception: Join us for the opening reception on Friday, May 1, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Meet the photographers, enjoy the work, and celebrate Albion’s vibrant creative community. The event is free and open to the public.

GALLERY HOURS – MAY 1 – 23, 2026
Thursdays: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Fridays: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Saturdays: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Admission to the gallery is free. The Albion Arts Center is located at 107 East Cass Street,
Albion, MI. For more information, contact us at AlbionArtsCommission@gmail.com This activity is supported by the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.

About the Albion Arts Commission
The Albion Arts Commission is a City of Albion advisory body dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts as a driver of community well-being and economic development. The Commission oversees the Albion Arts Center at 107 E. Cass Street, which serves as a hub for
exhibitions, workshops, classes, and community events for residents of all ages.

Press Release

March 31, 2026

On February 27, 2026, Homestead Savings Bank today announced the retirement of President, Chad Rumsey, effective April 22, 2026. The Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Jennifer R. Wilber as the next President & CEO of the bank along with Ashley Vinton as Executive Vice President & CFO.

Homestead Savings Bank recognizes the leadership that Chad has provided during his tenure at the organization and his 28 years of extensive experience. We are grateful for his time with the bank and wish him retirement filled with new adventures. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed the time I had here at Homestead. Banking has provided me with a wonderful life of meeting new people, new challenges, and always keeping me on my toes. I look forward to what retirement is going to bring and hope it is just as fulfilling,” said Rumsey. 

Wilber has been with the organization for 33 years with her most recent role of Sr. Vice President, COO. Vinton has been with the organization a total of 13 years with her most recent role of Sr. Vice President, CFO. Wilber and Vinton have extensive experience in key areas of accounting, operations, lending, compliance, and bank strategy. Their leadership has been instrumental in the bank’s success in most recent years.

“I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board and am honored to be appointed to lead this organization,” said Wilber. “I look forward to building on our strong foundation and continuing to serve our customers, employees, and communities.”

“I am incredibly happy to accept this position and look forward to my continual growth, through strong guidance from the Board, strategic partnerships with our internal team, and confidence from the communities in which we serve.” Noted Vinton. 

Homestead Savings Bank, Chair, Herman McCall expressed confidence in the transition: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank Chad for his leadership as President and CEO. We are grateful for his time leading the team. He brought dedication and a wealth of experience to the role, and we wish him all the best in retirement and his next chapter.” 

“For 137 years, Homestead has worked to be a pillar of stability and trust. Our longevity is due to our ability to embrace change while holding fast to a necessary set of core values. In Jenny Wilber, we have not only an experienced and talented individual, but she is also the right leader to carry our legacy into the future. She respects our past, while being relentlessly focused on our future. The Board is confident and incredibly proud to name her our first female President/CEO, knowing she will lead with integrity, strength, and a clear vision for our continued growth and success.” 

“We look forward to Ashley’s expanded leadership contributions to the executive team. Beyond her stellar technical qualifications and demonstrated skill, Ashley understands that community banking is built on engaged personalized service. Her financial expertise and interpersonal acumen align perfectly with our culture of serving our customers and community with excellence.”

Homestead Savings Bank will host a celebration event on April 22, 2026, in our Albon Branch at 5 p.m. and invite the public to attend.

By John Face

Photos by John Face

March 28, 2026

At noon today, around 200 people from around the Albion, MI area came together to take part in the national No Kings Protest. Event organizers state that over 8 million supported the march around the globe. Albion’s protest was peaceful and energetic, with chants, music, and singing. Enjoy the photos below of the protest.

March 27, 2026

By John Face

Photos by John Face

A reception sponsored by the Albion Arts Commission was held on Wednesday, March 25, at the Art Commission’s home on Cass Street. The event was well attended and gave citizens an opportunity to welcome back Sheryl Theriot, who is returning as City Manager.

Press Release

March 25, 2026

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) will host a Hunter Education Field Day on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST at the Marshall Regional Law Enforcement Center, located at 714 Old 27 N., Marshall, MI 49068.

The Field Day is the required in-person portion of the Michigan Hunter Education online certification course. Participants must present their online Hunter Education certification at check-in in order to complete this segment of the class. The course can be accessed through the Michigan Hunter Safety Course website using Event ID 10805. A written test is also required as part of the Field Day.

This training does not include live fire exercises. Students will demonstrate safe handling and competency using inert (non-functional) firearms to meet state field day requirements. A working lunch will be held during the program, featuring a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) presentation on applicable laws and regulations.

There is no minimum age requirement for attendance. However, students under 10 years old must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or a parent-approved adult throughout the training. Participants are encouraged to bring snacks and a lunch, as lunch will be a working session.

This Field Day is offered free of charge, with instruction coordinated by CCSO and MI DNR representatives.

March 24, 2026