Written by John Face
Photos by John Face
February 21, 2024

At some point in the coming year, Scott Evans, Homestead Savings Bank President and CEO, who has served as head of Homestead Savings Bank (HSB) since 2015, will retire. I sat down with Scott days after the announcement that he, Teri Face, and Chris Burdette would retire from Homestead this year.

A Long Distinguished Career

We met in his office, and I asked about his career in banking that would eventually lead him to Albion, Michigan. “I am a graduate of the Robert M. Perry School of Banking at Central Michigan University and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.” He said, “I started my banking career in June 1980.”

He worked at the Bank of Lenawee for 27 years. He was able to work in every department of every office at the bank. “One of my mentors, Pat Gill, gave me many opportunities,” he said. In 2007, he would work at County National Bank. He worked there for eight years. There, too, he had another great mentor in Craig Connor.

Then, in 2015, he sought and received the opportunity to join Homestead Savings Bank as President/CEO. “The board of directors allowed me to fulfill my career goal,” he said. “Forever, I will be grateful to all of these organizations. It has been a quick 44 years in the banking industry,” he said as he looked toward retirement.

Evans will not abandon Albion as he will continue to serve the bank and Albion on the Homestead Board of Directors. That will allow him the opportunity to assist the new President if needed.

Is Homestead Going Away?

With his retirement and that of other senior staff, I asked Evans if there are discussions to have Homestead merge or be bought by another bank. He was emphatic that the retirements, especially his, had long been planned. He said, “I have been asked since our press release, is HSB going to merge or be sold. Please let me be clear: the board of directors is committed to being an independent community bank. That is why I plan to stay on the board after my retirement.”

Evans explained that Homestead Savings Bank was established in June 1889. It is the oldest mutual savings bank in Michigan and the 14th oldest bank in Michigan. It is rare that a financial institution will celebrate 135 years in 2024 with the same name and in the same community.

Family Time

I asked Scott about his family, and a smile crept on his face. “My wife Connie and I have five children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren,” he said. Most of his family is in Michigan, but he does have some in Florida and England. “I must thank Connie and my family,” he said, “for giving up so much for my career. I missed so many events, and maybe now I can start to repay them.”

When he and Connie moved to Albion, they decided they must be involved in the community. “I think for the first few years, we went to every event possible. Through that process, we have met so many people and enjoyed all of the community events that we have done. Some of my favorites include Swingin’ at the Shell (we loved handing out cookies at the last concert), Men Who Cook, Run Albion, and Bids N Stuff”, he said.

Fondest Memories

“My coworkers and board of directors, they mean everything to me. We would never have accomplished the things we have done the last eight years”, he said. More specifically, his executive management team. “We all have different styles (which was by design), but the respect and professionalism, even when we did not agree, is amazing.” He thanked Jenny Wilber, Chris Burdette, and Ashley Vinton for all their work and effort. “The bank is in a great position for the future with the current and new leadership,” he said

We are Proud of Our Staff and The Communities They Help

I asked what he was most proud of, and his list was long:

“When I started in 2015, and you stood at the corner of Superior and Ash and looked down (north) Superior St., there were very few businesses,” he said. “Now, if you take the same look, you will find a brewery, bakery, stores, another theatre, hotel, chocolate shop, flower store and many more businesses. With all that, there is more to come, and HSB helped in some of that,” he said.

Individually, he said he has not accomplished that much. He is proud of what our board of directors, management, and staff have been able to do during my tenure. “When I arrived, HSB was experiencing some challenges. Our board members have changed, executive management has been established, and we have a great staff.”

They have a good relationship with federal regulators, and most importantly he said, “in 2023, we had the best financial performance since I have been at HSB.”

In October 2023, we organized our 1st Community Service Day.
In Albion, staff painted curbs, cleaned and painted the Riverside Cemetery sign, and cleaned the landscaping at Harrington Schools. In Leslie, they stained the Veterans gazebo, and in Springport, they partnered with the Village staff to landscape the park between the village office and the bank. Leslie and Springport, Michigan, are where the other two HSB Branches are located.

He said his staff had a blast doing Toast to the Bohm in 2018. They turned the bank into a restaurant and drove (thanks to Hometown Chrysler) people to the theatre for a show with The War & Treaty in a formal event that supported the Bohm.

Saying So Long Scott

Evans plans on being the President until his replacement is found. He is hoping that is sooner than later. When that happens the community will have the opportunity to thank him, but hey, why not now. When you see Scott thank him for his tireless work to make Albion a better place.

Written by John Face

February 13, 2024

Photos by John Face

Axe Throwing Coming to Town

There was one thing for sure when I walked through the doors, it looked like I was going to have some fun. I had just stepped inside of Viking Warrior Axe Throwing Company. They are located at 100 East Erie Street in Albion, MI, on the southeast corner of Superior and Erie, the old Ice Cream Parlor across from the street from Foundry Bakery.

Owners Tommy Fagan, Steve Sinden, and Steves’s wife, Breann, greeted me. After pleasantries, we get busy talking. My first question was, is this their first Axe throwing location? They both answered yes, and they are looking forward to opening. Tommy said after I asked why Albion, “Choosing Albion was easy. They have the college here, the city, and people in the town are trying to fix things up. There isn’t much to do. You have the Bohm, the bowling alley, the gaming place across the street; this would give people something new to do”.

I told them I knew little about Axe throwing except that these venues were opening all over. Tommy said there is one in Jackson, but beyond that, there is nothing close to where they live. Tommy lives outside of Albion, and Steve and Breann live in Concord. Tommy had the idea of doing this and talked to the Sindens, and as he said, “They were crazy enough to say yes.” Steve said finding a location was made easier with the great help of Joe Verbeke of Ace Investment. (Click on picture for Link to their website) They wanted to be downtown Albion and this was the perfect location for them.

Sport for All Ages

There are a few sanctioning bodies for this type of sport, but they plan on hosting in-house leagues and offering open throwing for now, which includes a college night. Customers will be able to go online and reserve a lane.

League play is simple; there are ten frames per game, six people per lane max, and games can last up to 2 hours. They have a wide variety of games to choose from. Reservations can be made for groups, etc. Click on the logo below for a link to their website, which gives detailed pricing information and their hours.

They showed me how they maintain the wooden surface into which the axes go. The “targets” are displayed on the wood via the camera and your scoreboard. They took time to explain the different games, and then Tommy asked if I wanted to try.

Well It Wasn’t Pretty at First

My first few attempts at Axe throwing were missed, with the Axe clanging to the floor. That happened because I didn’t listen carefully to the instructions I received from Tommy. But before I knew it my Axes were going where I was aiming, and I was hooked.

A Family Thing

On this night, Tommy invited Albion Department of Public Safety members and their families. Some showed up with spouses and children in tow. Before you knew it, lively games were played with cheers, laughter, and gentle ribbing at misses. I can tell the readers this was a blast and should be on your must-do list.

Opening Thursday

Again, click on the Logo link above and check this out. Stop by and play a game or two. Walk-ins are welcome on a first-come basis, but online reservations guarantee a spot. They allow outside food and offer some refreshments for sale and free popcorn.

House Democrats mark new era by strengthening workers’ rights

Photo: Members of the public listen to testimony of the House Labor Committee on March 8, 2023, in the House Office Building in Lansing.

Press Release

February 4, 2024

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 4, 2024 — For the first time in 40 years, Democrats gained control of the Legislature and the governor’s office last year — with majority, they led a remarkably productive year, passing and signing into law a historic number of bills. A significant number of those laws go into effect on Feb. 13. In order to celebrate with and inform Michiganders, Dems are rolling out the Countdown to a Better Michigan project — each day leading up to Feb. 13, they will share about a different set of legislation soon becoming law. Included are laws to bolster workers — Democrats know that hard working Michiganders are the backbone of the state, which is why they took tangible action to support workers and protect their rights.  

Michigan Democrats made putting workers first a central priority last year by repealing laws that weaken unions and restoring the state’s prevailing wage law. Dems plan to build on that foundation this year, making hard-working Michiganders a top focus by lowering costs and more. 

“I’m pleased that we restored workers’ rights by repealing anti-worker laws,” said state Rep. Jim Haadsma (D-Battle Creek), chair of the House Committee on Labor. “Families across Michigan are struggling at the gas pump, cash register and pharmacy counter, and they shouldn’t have to break the bank to put food on their tables. History has shown that we can strike a balance between the interests of workers and businesses — employers and employees both need a seat at the table.”

An essential element of putting workers first for Michigan Dems is ensuring educators are valued and have a strong seat at the bargaining table. Among the bills soon taking effect are laws to bolster negotiation power and collective bargaining rights for school employees. 

“Job security in the 21st century includes protecting workers’ rights when they speak up in solidarity for better wages and better working conditions,”  state Rep. Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park), chair of the Labor Caucus and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on School Aid and Education. “Organized labor built the middle class, and working Michiganders are stronger today because of it. We’ve worked hard to put people first and to put more money than ever back into the pockets of working Michiganders. We’re continuing the longstanding Democratic tradition of standing up for workers.”

With House Bill 4044 (Public Act 113), House Dems staunchly advocated to repeal a provision of the Public Employment Relations Act (PERA) — this successfully eliminates wage freeze during contract negotiations. Once again, this Dem advocacy put workers and union members first by bringing justice to the workplace and dismantling restrictive laws.

“Collective bargaining is the linchpin of workplace justice, empowering employees to negotiate fair wages and benefits,” said state Rep. Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph).  “Our elimination of the constraining wage freeze during contract negotiations is a crucial step toward just and equitable compensation. And we’ll continue advocating for workers, whether on the House floor or on the picket line. Let’s make Michigan a place where labor is honored, and workers and businesses alike can thrive.”

House and Senate Democrats are working hard to transform Michigan into the best possible place to work, live and retire. In tandem with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Dems are galvanized to help working people and families achieve their dreams in Michigan. 

“Michigan is a workers’ rights state thanks to the working families and union members across the state that secured a Democratic trifecta last year. From being the first state to repeal anti-worker ‘right-to-work’ laws in nearly 60 years to enshrining collective bargaining rights for our teachers and school staff, Michigan Democrats are doing the work to level the playing field for working people. Last year was historic, but we’re not done yet — I look forward to seeing more policies that put people over corporations,” Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber said.

As these new laws take effect, Michigan Democrats underscore their commitment to the well-being of hardworking Michiganders and the preservation of workers’ rights. The focus remains on striking a balance between the interests of workers and businesses. Whether through the repeal of anti-worker laws, advocacy for job security or the emphasis on collective bargaining, Democrats strive to fortify the foundation of the state — its workers. The importance of empowering local communities and fostering an environment where workers are not merely valued but truly esteemed is at the heart of these legislative endeavors. For detailed information on these transformative policies, please go to HouseDems.com/countdown.

Press Release

January 29, 2024

Homestead Savings Bank is pleased to announce the upcoming retirements of three of its long-serving
and dedicated employees in 2024.

Teri Face, Accounting Officer, has been a vital member of the Homestead Team for 38 years with 46 years total in the banking industry. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues and customers. Homestead Savings Bank will be celebrating Teri’s retirement with an Open House on Friday April 26, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Teri stated: “This will be a day that I am excited for but sad at the same time, as I will miss helping the community in Albion and the Family that I have here at Homestead.”

Chris Burdette, SVP/Chief Retail Officer, has brought his extensive experience and leadership to Homestead Savings Bank since 2015. He has 44 years in the financial services industry. His last day will be May 10, 2024.  In a statement “The past eight years have been a great experience and am thankful to end my career with a local, community bank like Homestead Savings.”

Scott E. Evans, President/CEO, has announced plans to retire in 2024 after a successful and distinguished career. He has 44 years in the financial service industry, having served in his position at Homestead since 2015. “Homestead has engaged Angott Search Group to assist the Board of Directors in finding a suitable successor. We are pleased Mr. Evans will remain on the board of directors after retirement” Chairman Herman McCall  

About Homestead Savings Bank:

Homestead Savings Bank is a full-service financial institution with locations in Albion, Leslie, and Springport. Since 1889 our mission has been to provide outstanding service to our customers. Decisions are made locally by people who know our customers and our communities. The bank is guided by a Board of Directors composed of local community leaders. The Board has installed an experienced, professional, and caring management team who oversee day to day operations. Homestead Savings Bank is organized as a mutual savings bank. That means it is owned by customers. When customers are owners, our service takes on a new meaning.

Written by John Face

January 29, 2024

Photos by John Face

Hearing Colors artwork via Ann Wade Music

On February 2, 2024, Ann Wade will have her album release party. It will be held at the Albion Malleable Brewing Company, 420 South Superior in Albion MI, starting at 7:00 P.M. Her album, Hearing Colors, will be available for purchase along with other merchandise she has. Ann will perform songs from her album; of course, she would like a large group of people to show up and support her. But, there is more to Ann Wade than an album.

A senior in high school, Ann has been performing on stages around the region for years. If you live in Albion and regularly attend music concerts and festivals, you most likely saw Ann perform at least once. She scores and writes, and performs her music. Ann plays multiple instruments, such as the ukulele, guitar, and saxophone, to name a few. She is the first saxophone in the Symphonic Band, section leader in the marching band, second trumpet in the youth brass band in Battle Creek, and president of her high school’s two choirs. As you can see, her musical interests are everything from classical to rock and roll.

Learning to Perform

She is undoubtedly talented, and when you sit down and talk to her like I had the opportunity to do, you find out she loves making and performing music as well. Stirling Books and Brew, located in downtown Albion, has hosted music in Albion since their opening several years ago. Ann helped host a Song Writers Open Mic after Aly Garland, who started it, went to college.

It helped her, as she stated, “getting me more comfortable as a solo performer.” She enjoyed the feedback from other artists who would show up. It would be one of her earliest performances at Stirling that I saw Ann perform all by herself. She had run into me and wanted to invite me to see her perform. Of course, she was wonderful. Every time I have watched her over the last six years, every show has been better than the previous one.

Her first public performance was at “Men Who Cook” a few years ago, an event fundraiser to benefit Citizens to Beautify Albion. This group is responsible for most of the flowers along our streets—their next event is February 11 at the First Baptist Church. Find the information on Facebook.

Ann Wade

Artistic Family

“Music is a big deal in my family,” she said. “I grew up with a musician for a Dad, and I was constantly trying to play guitar since I was little.” She said she never really learned to play it until 2019. Her Dad, Ben, has been a musician and performed in several bands, including the early version of The War and Treaty, a local Albion group that has moved on to the big leagues.

Her singing publicly started when she would sing in church. Singing so much that Pastor Lori would have to gently nudge her along so they could get to the sermon. She recalls some of her earliest performances were because of her Dad, who was playing for Good Thang Goin, and as she said, “any show they would let me I would get up, and my Dad play guitar and I would sing Cherry Blossom by Jack White.”

This artistic bloodline is not just in her and Ben’s blood. Her mother, Jenny, owns and operates the Yellow Bird Chocolate Shop next to the Secretary of State in Albion is a musician and singer. Ann’s brother Aiden is a talented artist and cartoonist and sister Aurelia has music and an artistic side.

It is her family and the support they gave her growing up that has made this experience in music fun. “I have a large family, and having them all show up for me, cheering me on, has made this all easier,” she said.

Hearing Colors

My question was, explain your album cover name, Hearing Colors. “I have this funny little thing called synesthesia,” she said, “I essentially process sounds as colors.” Don’t worry, readers; I will save you time. Synesthesia is when your brain routes sensory information through unrelated senses, simultaneously causing you to experience more than one sense, like tasting words or linking colors to numbers, letters, etc.

She explains that when she met her partner, Thomas, she couldn’t explain what she was feeling about him. She tried to write him a song but couldn’t find any words. She had the melody that was buzzing in her head. It was when she got to the studio and asked to record the song, which she did in one take. That is when she realized she was hearing colors. The song is how she perceives the feeling of love.

A New Career?

Ann won her recording session by winning Walk the Beat Albion in 2022—quite an accomplishment for someone so young. Her new album consists of 6 songs, which she will perform at the album release party on Friday night. In the studio with her recording were her Dad Ben on guitar, mom Jenny Risner/Wade on backup vocals, Ronnie Coach Parker on bass, Herman Doc McCall on drums, and Jim Stuart on trumpet.

She will be heading off to school in the fall to attend Grand Rapids Community College for a degree in recording technology. She told me that while in the studio, she became fascinated with the recording studio and the audio engineering. She feels this may be something that she would like to pursue as a career. I asked about her music. ”I will always write and perform music” she said. 

Come and support a local artist Friday night. I will be there. I will be supporting the young lady whom I have watched grow up on stage and turn into a woman before my eyes. The young girl who sang happy birthday to me when she was 11 and now I get to see her release an album.

Written by John Face
Editorial
All Photos owned by John Face Cover Is Nora Jackson
December 21, 2023

MAMA or MAGA – Both Fit

As Albions’ City Council met Monday night, one thing was sure: an item to censure Albion Mayor Victoria Snyder was on the agenda. The vote on this item was guaranteed; it would receive four votes, and this Cabal of Indecency would censure Mayor Snyder; this gang of four, this group of Garret Brown cultists, knew the fix was in. Donivan Williams, Nora Jackson, Len Reid, and Marcola Lawler have proven they are members of the Albion MAGA, Make Albion Garrett’s Again. Of course, they could also be MAMA, Make Albion Mat’s Again members.

They have reached the point where Garret Brown, Mathew Johnson, or both are directing them. City Watch has already proven that Johnson, the former Albion College President (Click here to read story exposing this) who was fired after he physically assaulted an elderly Albion leader, appeared to have bought votes on the council during his tenure in Albion.

French Scores- Council Controlled by Others

During the City Council meeting, when discussing the censure, 6th Precinct Council member Andy French called on all four members to answer a straightforward question, “Who wrote this Document?” as he held up a copy of the censure resolution. After a stammering nonsensical response, none of the four council members, Williams, Reid, Lawler, and Jackson, would say who wrote the document. Which was wise, for lying during a meeting like this could be breaking the law. They have broken enough laws already; there is no reason to add to the list.

Prosecutor – State Attorney General – Refuse to Do Their Jobs

So, as we move forward, everything has stayed the same in Albion. Only one person stood and spoke to the council from the audience. Very few showed up, which will empower these four council members more. They don’t have anyone willing to stand up and recall them or protest their actions, demanding they resign. Our county prosecutor appears to have become a coward and not opened an investigation into the actions of this council. Albion is screwed, and the voters seem OK with that.

City Watch will gladly allow letters to the Editor that are fact based, so feel free to submit them if you choose. Email them to citywatchnews1@gmail.com

Editorial

Written by John Face

All Photos Property of John Face Cover Photo of Donivan Williams 1st Precinct Council member.

December 18, 2023

Here we go again. The ‘Cabal of Indecency’ didn’t listen to the comments made by a margin of 4 to 1 in support of Mayor Snyder at a standing-room-only special meeting on Dec. 2. Tonight at the city council meeting, this ‘Cabal of Indecency,’ or the gang of 4 are at it again and plan to pass a resolution to censure the mayor and ‘soberly request Mayor Snyder to submit her resignation’ tonight at the council meeting.

Numerous residents gave of their time on a Saturday morning to show up and speak up at that special meeting to support Mayor Snyder and ask that the council focus on work that moves the city forward. Did they hear what was said? Nope. They only listen to two people, and I bet you can guess who those two are.

In 2017, a resolution was brought forward to censure then-Mayor Garrett Brown for usurping the city managers’ authority. Ultimately, the resolution was withdrawn in the interest of not creating more division in the city. It would be nice if this city council would play by those rules and do things that were not divisive. I ‘soberly request’ they withdraw their resolution for the good of the city.

Gang of Four

At the special meeting, Council members Nora Jackson, Lenn Reid, Marcola Lawler, and Donivan Williams clung to the talking point ‘Right is right.’ Do they think their actions, individually and collectively, fit that mantra? This seems to be mostly about keeping Economic Development Corporation (EDC) President Virgie Ammerman employed at an eye-watering and potentially illegal cost of $70,000. Not to mention a $10,000 investigation the gang approved to spend into why Ammerman was fired. (News flash—she’s not good at her job).

All told the city will most likely have spent more than $120,000 to keep Ammerman employed, and the question MUST BE ASKED—WHY? Just watch the recent video she posted on the EDC Facebook page, and you can see firsthand how good she is at her job. Rotary membership has collapsed under her leadership, and many local merchants and officials will not meet with her without a witness present.

Right is Right

Is that the kind of leadership at the EDC that should cost the city $120,000 above and beyond her annual salary of $105,000, car allowance of $500 a month, and expense account of $100,000? Double-dipping must be right, then. Firing duly appointed board members (EDC) must be right, then. Re-hiring someone fired with cause by a duly appointed board must be right, then? Spending city money on egregious investigations to determine why someone was fired even with cause by a duly appointed board must be right, then? Going against the advice of the city attorney must be right, then? Spending city money on an outside law firm because they went against the city attorney’s recommendation must be right, then?

Come on. Mayor Snyder was RIGHT to try to limit the egregious spending. Mayor Snyder was RIGHT to write a letter to bring in $50 million in grant funding to support the city. This reeks of an attempt to exact revenge against Mayor Snyder. The only good thing to come out of the meeting on Dec. 2 was that several people have thrown their names in the ring to run for council, including Tom McClure in the third precinct.

Stand up and Be Heard

Once again, show up, speak up. Council members Jackson, Reid, Lawler, and Williams continue to demonstrate zero interest in doing what is right. I don’t believe Mayor Snyder intends to cater to their ridiculous request to resign, but this NEEDS TO STOP for the good of Albion.

Below is a copy of what we assume is a Garrett Brown written resolution. I say this because he tends to have the same writing style and makes the same errors whenever he writes and misspells words.

The meeting starts at 7:00 P.M. in the council chambers tonight. Show up, speak up, recall, and run for office. These four need to go.

 Press Release

December 13, 2023

In the midst of economic uncertainties, political transitions, and global unrest, we bring you a shining example of resilience and growth. Albion, Michigan, is now home to a groundbreaking expansion in the world of manufacturing, and it’s a development that promises not just progress but a boost to the local economy.

Caster Concepts, the Albion-based heavy-duty industrial caster manufacturer, has just unveiled an impressive 16,000 square feet expansion to their facility. This strategic move is not only a testament to their commitment to Michigan’s manufacturing sector but also a beacon of hope in challenging times.

The exciting news has been officially shared via a press release on PR Newswire, providing an in-depth look at the expansion and its potential impact on the region. [Link to Press Release: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/caster-concepts-expands-manufacturing-facility-in-albion-michigan-302012667.html?tc=eml_cleartime ]

In the face of global instability, Caster Concepts is placing a bold bet on the future of Michigan Manufacturing, demonstrating confidence in the state’s potential to overcome prevailing challenges. This expansion not only signifies a significant investment in infrastructure but also opens doors to job creation, injecting vitality into the local job market.

Press Release

On a cold and dreary Saturday morning in December the Habitat crew of workers (The Regulars) arrived at Sheridan Court in Albion. The Gouin’s were expecting these dedicated workers because they had expressed the need for a ramp in order to enter and exit their home. That morning Mr. Gouin’s life took a
turn for the better. He had rarely been able to exit his home the past few months, but after a morning of work from these loving volunteers, he had easy access to the great outdoors: freedom!

Mr. Gouin expressed his thanks to the volunteers and said he will now be able to use his electric wheelchair. Habitat’s mission states: seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. If you are in need of a ramp, or have interest in our homebuyer program, please call 269-966-2502 or visit habitatbc.org to begin the application process.