ALBION-Members of the Albion Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG) Nu Chapter recently treated Harrington teachers to some sweet rewards.
The Nu Chapter gathered to create Halloween treat bags with stickers, candy and DKG educational foundation grant information. The holiday bags were to show appreciation for the work done by the teaching staff at Marshall Public Schools Harrington Elementary School building.
Information was included about applying for $500 classroom project grants from the AIM Educational Foundation of the Michigan State Delta Kappa Gamma. The Albion branch is a member of the state and international organization.
DKG was organized almost 100 years ago to support women educators at a time when sororities were the only acceptable way for women to organize. It has grown to be an honorary organization of key women educators, impacting education worldwide.
The DKG Nu Chapter mission aligns itself with the international goals of promoting professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education.
For information about joining the local Nu Chapter is available through retired educator Nancy Polasek at npolnasek@yahoo.com.
ALBION- Thanksgiving will be a little brighter for Albion and Homer area families thanks to partial support from the Albion-Homer United Way.
A free turkey giveaway on Nov. 23 is coordinated by Play Right Sports Academy and sponsored by the AHUW, Meijer, Oaklawn Hospital and Ford. The Saturday event is from 9 am to noon at the Opportunity High School east parking lot. This event is open while supplies last at the 225 Watson Street location.
According to Play Right Founder and President Milton Barnes this is an annual event designed to provide this Thanksgiving dinner staple. Only one turkey is allotted per household but up to two turkeys can be given away per vehicle but proof of separate households must be provided. Barnes said turkeys go quickly each year and it suggested that recipients need to be in line early. No proof of income is required.
The turkey giveaway is part of events coordinated by Play Right Sports Academy. Play Right is an after-school program for boys and girls from third through 12 th grades in Albion, Marshall, Battle Creek and Jackson. The non-profit organization funs three-days a week coinciding with the school calendar with additional summer activities provided.
Funding local non-profit initiatives like Play Right Sports Academy turkey giveaway is at the core of the Albion-Homer United Way’s mission. Raising funds through donations continues throughout the year, according to Marcia Starkey AHUW Executive Director.
Previous Play Right Sports Academy turkey giveaways have made Albion and Homer family Thanksgivings more joyful. Albion-Homer United Way and other local organizations supported this year’s event. The turkey giveaway is Nov.23 from 9 am to noon at the east parking lot of the Opportunity High School at 225 Watson St. The turkey giveaway is open until supplies run out.
Starkey said there are several good reasons to donate to the local United Way including that donations fund Albion and Homer specific programs and funding decisions are made by a local board. Donor lists are never shared with other agencies and payroll deductions make donating easier.
Recently a fund-raising appeal was sent to the Albion and Homer area. In addition donations can be mailed at any time to AHUW P.O. Box 55, Albion, MI 49224, made on-line at http://www.albionhomeruw.org or by contacting Starkey at 517-499-2563.
AHUW board members are Carolyn Amos, Donisha Brewer, Art Kale, Michael Leskowich, Isabell Nazar, Jenny Wilbur, Eddie Williams and Shane Williamson.
LANSING, Mich., Nov. 14, 2024 — In a significant move to strengthen Michigan’s economy and promote innovation, the House passed House Bills 5651–53 yesterday. The Michigan Innovation Fund package creates a new state fund to invest in early-stage businesses — including historically geographically disadvantaged small businesses — qualified nonprofit programs, and start-up support services across Michigan.
“This legislation is about securing Michigan’s economic future. We’re creating a cycle of opportunity that will generate good jobs and elevate our communities, by investing in our entrepreneurs and building a stronger foundation for local businesses — and that includes uplifting businesses owned by marginalized groups, including people of color, ” said state Rep. Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield), sponsor of HB 5652. “We need to ensure that Michigan remains a place where great ideas can thrive, and the Michigan Innovation Fund does just that by providing direct support to startups and job creators here at home.”
PHOTO:State Rep. Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield) chairs the House Economic Development and Small Business committee on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the Anderson House Office Building in Lansing.
HB 5653, sponsored by state Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn), prioritizes funding for “evergreen” venture funds — organizations committed to long-term growth. The bill emphasizes investment in programs that support communities, particularly those historically underserved.
PHOTO:State Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn) testifies in committee at the Anderson House Office Building in Lansing.
“The Michigan Innovation Fund will support entrepreneurs by expanding access to transformative economic resources. It will drive job growth, support innovation, and give businesses the tools they need to succeed,” Farhat said. “We have been losing entrepreneurs to other states for far too long. This legislation provides the support that people need to establish, develop, and grow successful businesses here in Michigan.”
The Michigan Innovation Fund package now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
Legislation allows for 12-month supply, pharmacist prescription of birth control
Press Release
PHOTO:State Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) speaks on the House floor on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, at the Capitol in Lansing.
LANSING, Mich., Nov. 14, 2024 — The Michigan House of Representatives passed the Contraception Equity Package this week. The three-bill package will increase access to reproductive care by requiring insurance coverage of and allowing pharmacists to prescribe contraceptives.
House Bill 5013, sponsored by state Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) who chairs the House Committee on Health Policy, would require insurers to cover a 12-month supply of prescription contraceptives, rather than limiting people to a one- or three-month supply at a time. This includes hormonal drugs, whether administered orally, transdermally or intravaginally that require a prescription and are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to prevent pregnancy.
“As a health care provider, I recognize the need for access to adequate health care, and a year’s supply of contraceptives will help ensure continuous and consistent use,” Rogers said. “The bills in the Contraceptive Equity Package are proven policies that will improve the lives of Michigan residents and lower health care costs. It is essential for individuals in this state that we remove barriers to birth control and ensure a consistent and readily accessible supply. For people who work, go to school, raise children, or have other demanding schedules, a 12-month supply of birth control will eliminate the burden of making a monthly trip to the pharmacy. If Texas can do it, so can Michigan.”
State Rep. Stephanie Young (D-Detroit) sponsored House Bill 5435, which would require insurers to cover prescriptions for hormonal contraceptives prescribed and dispensed at in-network pharmacies.
“As the debate about an individual’s right to choose what’s best for her as it relates to her own reproductive health care, the timing couldn’t be better for the passage of the Contraception Equity Package. My bill in the package will ensure a prescription written by a pharmacist is honored for payment by the insurance provider. This will save time, money and remove potential transportation barriers for women seeking this care. It’s simply the right thing to do,” Young said.
House Bill 5436, sponsored by state Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt), would authorize pharmacists to issue and dispense a prescription for a hormonal contraceptive patch, a self-administered hormonal contraceptive or an emergency contraceptive.
“Expanding access to contraceptives will empower Michiganders to take control of their reproductive rights,” said Hope. “This legislation addresses the fact that pharmacies are more accessible than physicians for many Michiganders while also keeping the necessary safeguards in place to ensure individuals across the state in need of contraception can access it safely and efficiently.”
HB 5436 would also require the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to consult with the Michigan Board of Pharmacy to establish a standard procedure for issuing a prescription, including a self-screening risk assessment tool.
“This legislation will ensure Michiganders can access the medication they depend on to manage their health, plan their families and pursue their dreams,” said Paula Thornton Greear, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Michigan. “We applaud our legislative partners for passing these bills to remove unnecessary barriers to care and ensure Michiganders can more easily access contraception.”
Michigan Democrats have taken concrete steps to protect reproductive rights including repealing the archaic abortion ban from 1931, expanding IVF and surrogacy laws, and increasing access to reproductive health care.
Linda LaNoue, former City of Albion Council member, has submitted a resume and letter to the council. Tonight, the Albion City Council will take up appointing an interim City Manager. Her letter is the only one that this writer is aware of that is being considered. Allow me to quickly remind the reader.
Linda LaNoue was involved in the Albion College mess involving former fired college President Matthew Johnson. She along with other members of council were awarded jobs, contracts, special project gifts. None of the members, including LaNoue, have explained what was behind all this. On top of all that, LaNoue was serving on the council at the time and was not living in her precinct, which is required by the charter. She resigned from the council as word was about to go public that she, in fact, was not legal.
City Watch suggests the City Council maintain its history and appoint a current employee Department head as interim manager, as those employees pass the eye test of honesty. Bringing in an outsider, and yes, this particular former council member is an outsider, is terrible for Albion. Especially someone who has absolutely no experience in a corporation this size.
The fourth annual Calhoun County Trail Run is scheduled for Saturday, October 19, at 9 a.m. The Calhoun County Trail Run is a 5k, 8k, and 20k on the beautiful Calhoun County Trail. The event will start and end at the new and improved Kimball Pines Park.
The newly added 5k event is a true rustic trail run through mixed landscapes, including rustic wooded trails with roots and uneven surfaces, grassy meadows, and gravel trails. The 3.1-mile route takes runners along the gravel Calhoun County Trail, then enters a trail made specifically for the event, mixed with portions of the North Country Trail.
The almost 5-mile 8K takes participants from Kimball Pines to Bridge Park and back on the Calhoun County Trail. This portion of the trail is a wide gravel pathway with some bridges and road crossings. The section in Bridge Park includes a stair climb and mixed surfaces that can be slippery when wet.
The 20k adds the Ott Biological Preserve to the map, with all types of terrain.
Registration fees for the timed events include a long-sleeved shirt, medal, and award eligibility. All proceeds benefit the Calhoun County Trails and Parks. Prices start at $40 but increase on September 30. For those not-so-into-competition, the un-timed fun run/hike allows participants to tour the route at their leisure and enjoy the views and comradery of this fun event. There are no medals or awards for the fun run/hike.
“The Annual Trail Run is such a fun way to experience a sampling of Calhoun County’s parks and recreation offerings,” stated Assistant Director of Community Development Doug Ferrall. “Especially showcasing the new and improved Kimball Pines Park. While the park has been underutilized for many years, recent millages have funded its complete transformation. We look forward to welcoming a record number of participants to the Calhoun County Trail.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Parents listen to advice during last year’s Healthy Babies Day. This year it will be held from 10-noon September 28 at Harrington Elementary School. The free event is sponsored by Albion Health Care Alliance with support from an Albion-Homer United Way grant.
ALBION-Information on raising healthy babies became more available due partly to grant money from the Albion-Homer United Way. The Healthy Babies Day 2024 event on September 28 is offered by the Albion Health Care Alliance, with many sponsors helping make this a successful day. This is the 16th year for this community health event.
This free event, held from 10 a.m. to noon at Albion’s Harrington Elementary School, 100 S. Clark St., is designed for expectant parents or those caring for a child ages newborn to 18 months.
Information on breastfeeding, nutrition, and how to have babies safely sleep is all part of the educational component of this annual event. In addition, information on child growth and development and health resources will be available in the community. Albion branch of Milk Like Mine consultants will provide free lactation counseling. Families and caregivers are encouraged to attend the breakout sessions available at Healthy Babies Day.
According to Amanda Cheladyn of the ACA, “The Calhoun County Health Department will lead one breakout session, providing attendees with important safety information and tips for those caring for infants and toddlers.”
In collaboration with the Albion Rotary Club, Healthy Babies Day will also host the author of the brain game. ‘This book provides information about child brain growth from birth through age three. Attendees will be taught songs, activities, and behaviors that will help foster their child’s intellectual and social development,’ Cheladyn added.
In addition, there will be many giveaways, including diapers, sleep sacks, first aid kits, and many more items for parents and caregivers of infants up to 18 months. Helping financially support non-profits is at the core of the Albion-Homer United Way’s mission. According to Marcia Starkey, AHUW executive director, raising funds through donations continues throughout the year.
Starkey said there are several good reasons to donate to the local United Way, including that donations fund Albion and Homer-specific programs and funding decisions are made by a local board. Donor lists are never shared with other agencies, and payroll deductions make donating easier. Donations can be mailed at any time to AHUW P.O. Box 55, Albion, MI 49224, made on-line at http://www.albionhomeruw.org or by contacting Starkey at 517-499-2563.
AHUW board members are Carolyn Amos, Donisha Brewer, Art Kale, Michael Leskowich, Isabell Nazar, Jenny Wilbur, Eddie Williams, and Shane Williamson.
ALBION- Scholar-athlete Tyzjohn Ondray-Eugene Allen was awarded the 2024 NAACP Community Scholarship. Albion resident and 2024 Concord High School graduate Allen is a first-year at Albion College. He is part of the prestigious Build Albion Fellows program.
Allen has been a leader during his high school years. He has been an athlete and involved in volunteer efforts during his four years. According to his scholarship application, Allen intends to study business management with the goal of opening his own business. “My whole life, I have been a leader. This scholarship will help me achieve my goals, giving me the tools and preparation to do special things in my world,” Allen stated.
The NAACP scholarship required a grade point of 2.5 or higher, acceptance to a college, university, or trade school, 15 hours of community service, letters of recommendation, and a statement outlining future goals and the personal importance of civic rights. Last year’s scholarship recipient, London Hayes, also received a small donation for college supplies.
The NAACP Education Committee members are Chair Mae Ola Dunklin, Nels Christensen, Vivian Davis, Jessica Kane, Kay Knight, Linda Kolmodin, Hazel Lias, Jess Roberts, Eddie Ruth Williams, Bernice Wyrick and Keena Williams.
PHOTO CAPTION: Albion resident Tyzjohn Ondray-Eugene Allen received the Albion branch NAACP Community Scholarship Award for 2024. graduate of Concord High School, Allen is a first-year at Albion College as part of the Build Albion Fellows program.
Scott Evans sat for a few minutes and shared the thoughts of the Homestead Board: They are thrilled to have a candidate who grew up in Albion, went to school here, has family here, and comes in with 25 years of financial institution experience. Evans noted that he and Chad worked together from 2012 to 2015. Evans said that he was remaining for six months in an advisory position to assist Chad as needed for his transition as President/CEO. Then, at the end of this year, He will step back and take a position on the Board.
Scott Evans
I had the opportunity to sit and speak with our new president on July 5th, and as you are about to read, it was more of a homecoming for Rumsey. Chad was born and raised in Albion. He graduated from Albion High School in 1991, then left Albion and graduated from Grand Valley State University. He moved on from GVSU and began a professional life in investment banking, financial service, ending up at Citizens Bank as a Branch Manager in Brooklyn, MI, in 1999.
The son of Tom and Sharon Rumsey, he has a sister, Sara. He married his wife Lori and will celebrate 21 years in September this year; they have no children. He always stayed close, as they live in Grass Lake, and Lori recently retired from teaching at Michigan Center. He said they are looking to move to the Albion Area. Having spent much of his youth at Duck Lake, they want to reside there.
Chad Rumsey and Scott Evans
I asked how he ended up back home in Albion. He said that he had heard rumors of Scott retiring, he wasn’t looking to move on from his current job. It was upon learning of this opportunity with Homestead, knowing Scott and hearing rumor of his potential retirement that opened that door. Once I had learned this to be true I then reached out to Scott for a lunch to learn more.
He met Evans for lunch, who filled him in on where things were in Albion, and Chad was very curious. That meeting began a long process of interviews and checks, and before we all knew it, Chad Rumsey was returning home.
Now that he is here, he’s already working on the future. Chad said that with the recent retirements of Teri Face, Chris Burdette, and now Evans, “I need to plan for an eventual succession for our bank. I plan on being here for several years until I retire, but we have lost decades of banking experience with those three retirements alone, replacing this much experience will be difficult.”
He also wants to improve Homestead’s commercial loan business. He said that is one area we can improve on, and I plan on seeing that developed to where we are looking for additional growth. He said Homestead recently received notification of its ability to lend more. The bank now can authorize up to one million in loans without seeking help from other sources. That is big news for a small bank like us.
“With the right amount growth and with the right area identified we may consider another branch office,” he said, much like they have now in Albion, Springport, and Leslie. Looking into more modern technology for the bank will always be a must, and continuing our excellent customer service. Chad is looking forward to working with clients and future clients (business and personal) of HSB as well as being involved in community events.
Reaching Chad is easy and simple; just call him at his Albion office of Homestead, 517-629-5588. Stop by any of Homesteads branches listed below.
The situation that occurred Sunday on Dalrymple Street in Albion had many in the community concerned. Though many of the details are sketchy, we know that an assault occurred and that several law enforcement agencies were involved.
City Watch can confirm a suspect has been arrested within the last hour and the community can rest easy tonight.
City Watch News Blog 
You must be logged in to post a comment.