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.

Press Release

December 5, 2023

ACT II Community Theatre brings the Orson Welles radio version of A Christmas Carol to the Bohm Theatre stage in downtown Albion, Michigan. This version of the 1938 live radio show, adapted by John Face, will be presented by ACT II Community Theatre’s group of actors. The show has two performances planned, Monday, December 11, and Tuesday, December 12. 7:00 P.M. curtain for both nights.

This two-act play is Narrated by Carolyn Face Gilg and follows Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Tom McClure, as he walks the earth with three spirits, learning what a waste his life has been by being an evil old mizer. The spirits of the Ghost of Christmas Past, played by Lynn Schofield-Dahl, and the Ghost of Christmas Present, played by Sylvia Benavidez, lead Scrooge through a host of scenes where he sees the Cratchit family, headed by Bob Cratchit and played by Tom Davis, and others teaching him how evil he truly is. The last spirit is an exchange where Scrooge “speaks” for the spirit of Christmas Yet to Come, in a riveting performance by McClure that brings chills to the observer when Scrooge has his eyes opened to see the light of goodness. 

The show is co-directed by Tom McClure and John Face. Tom is the current president of ACT II Theatre and has served as a member of the original Albion Community Theater and the Albion Youth Theater. “It has been a true pleasure to work with this cast. Please enjoy the show as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you”, he said. A Christmas Carol is the first time John has directed, and he says, “I get to learn by working with a great director like Tom.” He has been involved in community theatre for years and is proud to be part of this play with some great actors. He hopes you all enjoy this labor of love from this cast. 

The cast cleverly performs the sound effects and sings all the music themselves. The cast’s beautiful rendition of Silent Night that closes the show is a fitting start for everyone’s holiday season.  

Monday and Tuesday night, December 11 & 12, at 7:00 P.M., performed at the Bohm Theatre in Downtown Albion, Michigan.

Our Cast

In order of character appearance 

Narrator—Carolyn Face Gilg

Bob Cratchit—Tom Davis

Scrooge—Tom McClure

Child—Jackie Merritt

Fred—Chris Brown

Gentlelady – Linda Clawson

Marley—Shanti Brown

Ghost of Christmas Past—Lynn Schofield-Dahl

Fezziweg—Pat Wilson

Belle—Carson Scioletti

Young Scrooge—Chris Brown

Belle’s Husband—Tom Davis

Ghost of Christmas Present—Sylvia Benavidez

Mrs. Cratchit—Mary Davis

Macy—Macy Meszaros

Lili—Lili Kay

Lili—Carson Scioletti Tuesday Night

Carys—Carys Kay

Martha—Jackie Merritt

Tiny Tim—Ezra Kay

1st woman—Shanti Brown

2nd Woman— Pat Wilson

Girl—Carson Scioletti

Our Crew

Terry Vincent—Spotlight

Syd Dulaney—Stage Crew

Cheryl Matuszek Scioletti— Lighting Board

Sound—Kelly Kidder

Written by John Face

December 2, 2023

Tom McClure sent City Watch the following statement:

I, Thomas J McClure will run for 3rd precinct city council seat in the next city election.

He went on to say:

“My father Jack H. McClure served on council and two terms as mayor. He passed away while he was still mayor. My dad married Lois Frick and she became not only my first grade teacher but my stepmom. Lois would also serve as mayor.” 

McClure attended todays trial of Mayor Snyder and made statements of disgust during and after the meeting. He and current 3rd precinct council member Nora Jackson had an exchange of words after the meeting regarding his disappointment with her. He stated as he left he was considering running.

December 2, 2023

To use words written by Councilwoman Lawler, it is with intense disappointment I am forced today to respond to the reckless actions of four of my council colleagues. Let me be clear-the actions of Ms. Lawler and three of my council colleagues are not at all about the welfare of the city or its residents. This is about power. Simple as that. They have a majority on the council and they intend to bend it to their whim. Further, I harbor no illusion that the majority of the council will be objective today.

The purpose in my statement today is to refute the allegations brought against me and to educate the public about the illegal actions of that majority faction of the council. These are the FACTS. Let us deal in the facts today—as FACTS are different than individual versions of the TRUTH as they pertain to allegations and actions of council members Lawler, Jackson, Williams and Reid.

To address allegation #1 – The October 11 th email to Ed Haas & Annette Norris:

FACT: On August 15, 2023 Council voted to remove the 4 EDC board members ignoring legal opinion from both City Attorney Harkness and EDC Attorney Karre. Both attorneys advised that this is out of the realm of Council authority and against the Home Rule City Act. The following is citing the opinion of Attorney Karre:

“The Home Rule City Act prohibits the City from removing a board member without cause. The EDC Bylaws, ratified by the City Council, only allow such removal to be for cause, as defined by those Bylaws. The list of for cause reasons in the Bylaws does not begin to include removing an EDC board member (much less four of them) because of a vote by the Board to terminate an employee. The EDC Board terminating an employee is not on the list of “for cause” reasons in the Bylaws and does not compare to the items that are on the list. There is nothing in “the law” that allows or justifies the Council removing an EDC Board member because of the Board terminating an employee. As an employer, the EDC has the right and authority to have, and to terminate, employees as a part of the usual course of business. The Council does not have the authority to interfere with that usual course of business. “

FACT: At this August 15 th meeting Councilman French, Councilwoman Davis and I implored council to go into closed session as scheduled to discuss this and to take into deep consideration the liability of being sued and costing the taxpayers of Albion considerable amount of money. This was not done. Councilwoman Lawler argued against this saying ‘I think the more information that we get, the more you all are trying to change our minds”. And Councilwoman Jackson encourages legal action by stating: “you talking about them suing us, they might as well come on because they gonna get sued back!” and again by stating “They want to sue us, so be it’!

FACT: On August 21 st , Albion City Council was informed that Ed Haas had retained legal counsel to move forth with legal action against the City of Albion.

FACT: On Oct.7, 2023 Albion community resident and former Mayor Dave Atchison filed multiple ethics violations against Lawler, Reid, Jackson and Williams for violating the City Charter.

FACT: On Oct. 11, 2023 Jerome Harvey sent out an email with the written statement that he alone re-hired Ms. Ammerman effective Oct. 9 th back to her position without board approval. The email was not confidential or privileged information as it was sent out to several individuals, including me. I forwarded that email to Mr. Haas in hopes of putting an end to the lawsuit that would have saved the taxpayers money in defending this lawsuit and hopefully right the wrong that was done by this council by possible injunctive relief. I have already stated why I sent this through my personal email in a public council meeting. Council must prove my intent of avoiding FOIA.

FACT: On November 6, 2023 Council approved for the expense of ten thousand dollars for Garan, Lucow, Miller to investigate the EDC’s handling of Ms. Ammerman’s termination, who is an at will employee. Also at this same meeting, Council approved the additional expense of hiring Conflict Counsel attorneys Fahey, Schultz to defend the lawsuit of Haas v City of Albion above and beyond the salary that we already pay our own City attorney.

FACT: Since the removal of EDC board members Haas, Newman, Norris and Evans, Ammerman was rehired; in addition to receiving a severance payment and back pay totaling $70,000. The payment of both severance and back pay is “double dipping” and resulted in an unearned windfall to Ms Ammerman. With the legal fees to defend the lawsuit and the investigation, this will have cost the city more than $100,000 in NEEDLESS spending. I ask you, is that how you want your tax dollars spent?

To address allegation #2 – My letter of support for the Federal Recompete Grant with possible award of 50 Million Dollars

FACT: The City Council voted unanimously on Oct. 3, 2023 to approve the City of Albion Community Comprehensive Plan, AIR-22-513 with a motion by Nora Jackson and seconded by Lenn Reid. The Albion’s Comprehensive Plan is a strategic document that guides the City in future decision making concerning land-use planning and for social, economic, and environmental development. The agreed upon plan specifically recognizes the need for workforce development training and the need for improvements to our major corridors to the city, including Austin Avenue which is in direct alignment with this grant. My quote from that letter: “The City Council and I are in full support of bringing in new opportunity to strengthen our workforce and employment strategies.”

Is that not the explicit opinion of the City Council, by unanimous vote on Oct. 3 2023, to support the City of Albion Comprehensive Plan? By unanimous vote, the letter of support already received council approval. Would council members Lawler, Jackson, Reid and Williams prefer that we lose the opportunity to bring in up to Millions of dollars to strengthen our workforce and employment strategies and improve the Austin Avenue area? 

We all need to be asking what is being gained from these efforts? At the end of the day, this is all about power. Nothing more, nothing less—and certainly not about the welfare of the city or its residents. Instead of pursuing the business of the city, there are some who would wish to tarnish my reputation, who seek to punish me for attempting to be a good steward of the city’s finances by stopping egregious spending as well as providing support for bringing tens of million dollars into the community.

As Mayor, I was elected to serve ALL Albion residents and in both baseless allegations brought forth by Councilwoman Lawler, I was doing just that. As a lifelong resident of Albion, a woman of color, and the Mayor who won the majority of votes in two recent elections, I say enough. This is enough. This is an embarrassment. We need to focus on healing, on doing the business of

the city, and most importantly on stopping the undue influence of those who should not have a say in local politics. I refute in the strongest terms the allegations brought forth and ask that they be withdrawn immediately.

The Due Process Clause in the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution extends the
Bill of Rights to persons accused by state and local governments. Persons are entitled to
fundamental rights. One of those fundamental rights is to be judged by an impartial and unbiased
tribunal. The majority of this council are neither impartial nor unbiased. But there is still a
chance for them to do the right thing this morning. 

I’m hopeful that in this season of giving they stop and make the effort to look past the things they think divide us and come together for the betterment of Albion. Think for YOURSELF and demonstrate your commitment to moving Albion forward instead of continuing the finger pointing, the drama, the unnecessary spending of tax payers money on legal matters.  Thank you to the countless Albion residents who have called, emailed, texted and showed up to support me today. I assure you that I will continue to serve the people of my hometown as their Mayor with integrity, professionalism and civility that this position deserves.

Written by John Face

Editorial
December 2, 2023
All Photos Property of John Face

The photo heading at the top of this story is of Donivan Williams, Precinct 1 Council Member

I plan to have a more detailed story in the coming week, but I wanted to get this out to all who may not have heard. Later today I will have the Mayors complete statements. As I sat listening to four members of the council stammer and stutter their way through their scripts, which obviously were given to them moments before the meeting, one thing came to mind. They needed more rehearsal time. I would have laughed out loud if the meeting hadn’t been so serious.

The outcome of this meeting, as reported by City Watch prior, and everything we have written since came true. What surprised no one was the level of incompetence displayed by these four people. Nora Jackson, Precinct 3 council member, as Mayor pro tempore, led the meeting. Her rumored willingness to run for Mayor in 2024 was not helped by the embarrassing way she went through the meeting today. Causing laughter from the audience.

Again, more will be shared later this week; I just wanted to get out to the public about the four council members behind this attempt to take over Albion.

Cabal of Indecency