December 17, 2025

The Albion Area Philanthropic Women’s giving circle is one of the most impactful community-led initiatives in the Albion area. Since its inception in 2007, around 100 Albion women and supporters have gathered every quarter to each write a $100 check to support a local non-profit. Their final 2025 meeting on December 9 pushed the organization past $750,000 in donations to Albion non-profits! 

During their meetings, the women hear from various presenting non-profits, who explain how they would use the approximate $10,000. Each presenter has three to four minutes to explain their needs, followed by a short period for questions. After, the women vote on the winner of that quarter’s round. Previous recipients range from the Albion District Library, which established the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, to the Forks Senior Center for technology upgrades, encompassing multiple facets of the community. 

Beyond the generosity of giving, the quarterly meetings are a time for the women to gather and discuss their love for Albion. They have lunch or dinner and announcements on the countless events going on within the community. It is a time for sharing and caring. The women end the meeting by “passing the hat”, where an additional organization of choice gets a few cash donations.

Homestead Savings Bank generously sponsored lunch, so the collected lunch money will be donated to the Community Table of Albion. Your lunch money donation will have an even greater impact because the Albion Community Foundation will match your donations to CTA up to $500.  Help Philanthropic Women reach their ¾ million-dollar mark by joining – for more information, contact albionphilwomen@gmail.com. 

Article Courtesy of Downtown Albion

Press Release

December 11, 2025

A two-week, targeted investigation into child exploitation led by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office has resulted in the arrest of Jeremy Clark, 35, of Battle Creek, who attempted to engage in sexual activity with a minor.

This proactive, multi-agency operation was conducted with support from the Albion Department of Public Safety; Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Police; Michigan State Police – Southwest Enforcement Team; Marshall Police Department; Battle Creek Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Michigan Department of Corrections; and the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority.

Throughout the investigation, the individual made repeated attempts to solicit a 14-year-old female, including requests to purchase underwear and view intimate parts of the child. At the conclusion of the enforcement period, detectives took the suspect into custody. He has been formally charged with the following felony offenses:

• Accosting a Child for Immoral Purposes
• Using a Computer or the Internet to Communicate with Another Person to Commit a Crime

“The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in our mission to protect the most vulnerable among us,” said Sheriff Steve Hinkley. “I think this is a good opportunity for some self-reflection. If you’re chatting and intending to solicit our children for sex, you need to know this – you’re next! This is an ongoing reminder to parents: social media can be a dangerous place. Monitor and discuss online risks; trust but verify; and keep lines of communication open. Awareness and education are key to protecting our youth from those who wish to do them harm.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Pignataro at the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office at 269-781-0880, or submit an anonymous tip through Silent Observer.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office is committed to maintaining a safe community for the citizens, especially the children, of Calhoun County, and will continue its efforts to identify, investigate, and hold accountable individuals who seek to exploit minors.

Highlights from the Thursday, December 4, 2025,

The meeting opened with two special presentations. First, the Calhoun County Conservation District’s Annual Report, presented by Executive Director Ryan Reincke. The report reviewed the Conservation Needs Assessment, an update on the Battle Creek River Watershed Management Plan, the Michigan Hunter’s Access Program, and other agricultural support programs, and community engagement initiatives that strengthen local environmental sustainability.

The Board then issued a proclamation recognizing the 2025 Holiday Season National Enforcement Mobilization Campaign, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” which runs December 12, 2025, through January 1, 2026. The proclamation emphasizes the county’s commitment to roadway safety and supports coordinated enforcement and education efforts during the busiest travel season of the year.

On the Consent Agenda, Commissioners approved the following items:

• Scheduling of the 2026 Board of Commissioners Organizational Session for Jan.15, 2026
• Reappointments to the Calhoun County Board of Public Health
• CCRD Contract: B Drive North Safety Grant Tree Removal
• CCRD Contract: 6 Mile Road Safety Grant Tree Removals
• Notice of Intent to Create a Countywide Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA)

In New Business, Commissioners approved several items that advance county services, strengthen community partnerships, and finalize key organizational planning for 2026. The Board adopted the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and Appropriations, establishing the financial framework that will guide county operations in the year ahead. Commissioners also approved the 2026 Agreement for MSU Extension Services, ensuring continued access to programs that support local agriculture, youth development, nutrition education, and community wellbeing.

Additionally, the Board authorized the County’s pledge of Full Faith and Credit for the Goguac Lake Level Special Assessment Notes, supporting the Water Resources Commissioner’s long-term lake level management efforts that benefit residents and property owners.  Commissioners also approved the 2026–2028 collective bargaining agreement with the Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM), reinforcing the county’s commitment to its Sheriff’s Office personnel

The Holiday Market at the Albion Arts Center has MANY creative items to fulfill your holiday shopping, or to treat yourself.  We have pottery, knit wear, greeting cards, jewelry, photography, handbags, paintings, digital art, rugs, glass pieces, tree ornaments, books, etched works, 3D sculptured pieces, journals, all hand-crafted, with prices ranging from $1 to 400. 

You are sure to find something beautiful for everyone on your list. 

 Location: 107 East Cass. Heading East on Cass, (Toward the college) from Cass and Superior Streets. You go half a block, cross the river, literally at the end of the bridge, make a hard left into the drive along the river, go forward, and you will run into the big red building.

If you haven’t visited us yet, stop in to see Albion’s new art space. 

November 26, 2025

Press release

Calhoun County’s 37th Judicial Circuit Court proudly celebrated Michigan Adoption Day on November 25.  Finalizing two adoptions and welcoming children into their forever families. Presided over by Judge John A. Hallacy, the joyful event reflected this year’s theme, “Giving Thanks for Families,”  highlighted the life-changing impact of adoption in our community.

Families, court staff, and supporters gathered to honor the importance of providing stable, loving homes for children in foster care.

November 25, 2025

This Saturday is “Shop Local” in Albion.  Be sure to check out the new Albion Arts Center at 107 E. Cass, behind the Coke sign.  We have arts and crafts of all kinds, including jewelry, painting, photography, paper crafts, fabric crafts, greeting cards, and Christmas tree decorations. Prices range from as low as $1, perfect for stocking stuffers, up to $400 for fine works of art.  In other words, something for every taste and pocketbook. 

Hours are Thursdays and Fridays, 2 – 6 PM (except Thanksgiving); Saturdays 11 AM – 2 PM, until and including December 13. 

Location: 107 East Cass. Heading East on Cass, (Toward the college) from Cass and Superior Streets. You go half a block, cross the river, literally at the end of the bridge, make a hard left into the drive along the river, go forward, and you will run into the big red building.

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By John Face

November 21, 2025

Grand Opening Evening in Pictures

Location: 107 East Cass. Heading East on Cass, (Toward the college) from Cass and Superior Streets. You go half a block, cross the river, literally at the end of the bridge, make a hard left into the drive along the river, go forward, and you will run into the big red building.

Hours for the Holiday Gallery are:
Thursdays: 2 – 6 PM Dec. 4, & 11
Fridays: 3 – 6 PM Nov. 21, 28; Dec. 5, & 12
Saturdays: 11 AM – 3 PM Nov. 22, & 29; Dec. 6, & 13

Press Release

November 21, 2025

Highlights from the Thursday, November 20, 2025, Calhoun County Board of Commissioners Meeting

The meeting opened with a series of recognitions and presentations honoring those who serve Calhoun County in meaningful and impactful ways.

The Board first presented a proclamation honoring the Calhoun County Substance Abuse Coalition, the Albion-Homer Substance Abuse Coalition, and community advocates Dr. Harry Bonner and Art Kale. The proclamation acknowledged their ongoing leadership in prevention, education, and community partnership efforts that strengthen residents’ health and safety across the county.

Commissioners then received the 2024 Annual Report from the Office of the Medical Examiner, presented by Dr. Patrick Hansma of the WMU Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. The report outlined key data trends, caseload information, and operational updates from the past year, providing insight into the county’s mortality data and public health indicators.

Next, Assistant County Administrator Megan Banning delivered the 2026 Administrator/Controller’s Budget Recommendation, followed by the annual public hearing on the proposed budget. The recommendation highlighted the County’s financial position heading into FY26, key operational priorities, and proposed investments that support essential services, public safety, infrastructure, and long-term fiscal stability.

On the Consent Agenda, Commissioners approved the following items:

• Reappointment to the Calhoun County Medical Care Facility/DHHS Board
• Fiscal Year 2026 Emergency Management Work Agreement

During New Business, the Board approved two MDNR Grant Agreements, one for the North Branch Park Boat Launch Renovation and the other for Historic Bridge Park Improvements. The Board also accepted a state-directed funding allocation to support the replacement of Tasers for the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring that deputies have updated, reliable equipment for public safety operations. Finally, the Board approved a Resolution supporting the Calhoun County Land Bank’s planned short-term financing for projects ultimately to be reimbursed by grants.

Join This Event on Thursday, November 13