8 Years and Going Strong, Again

October 31, 2025

By John Face

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Born of the corruption of City of Albion politicians, eight years ago on this day, the idea of City Watch was put into action. They were painful days, as the Albion City Manager at that time, Sheryl Theriot (Mitchell), was under fire and being forced to resign by four allegedly corrupt council members. Citizens took a stand, urging her not to resign, during a meeting where over 100 citizens stood up and asked her to stay. She would rescind her resignation—for the time being—but eventually the evil on our council won out.

That was followed by a City Manager who literally stole thousands from Albion and was eventually charged and convicted. Hired by the same allegedly corrupt council that ran Theriot out of town, City Watch reported on her spending habits, prompting the council, led by then-Mayor Dave Atchison, to eventually oust her. This reporting preceded death threats against this writer that included damage to my vehicle. (Investigative journalism is not easy)

We were there reporting on a new Albion College President who was demanding students and staff alike to be kind and respectful, but was creating chaos by figuratively standing on the throats of opposition at the school, forcing some of the top talent at Albion College out for daring to stand up to the king. We reported his working relationship with the above four allegedly corrupt council members and the favors he showered on them to secure their votes in his favor. We were the first to report the assault of a dear beloved elder in our community, which forced his resignation.

Sheryl Theriot & John Face City Watch NEWS

From that start, we have been around, even though the last one has been somewhat quiet, mainly because this reporter has been dealing with significant health issues that are finally under control. So here we go again. Back to reporting on issues that concern our readers.

We will start with interviews of Albion’s movers and shakers, beginning with a comprehensive interview with the new Albion College President, Wayne Webster. Many may recall that we interviewed Dr. Webster shortly after he arrived in Albion in July of 2023. This new interview will address the many challenges he has faced, including enrollment, financial issues, the federal government’s ever-changing rules, and more. His interview should go to press by mid-December.

We will be opening up our forum to guest writers, letters to the editor, and guest photographers. We ask the public to help lead us to potential stories. This writer can’t tell you the number of times I have heard, “Why did you miss this event today?” My reply is almost always, “This is the first I have heard about it.” Remember, WE respect the confidentiality of whistleblowers and sources.

So, celebrate with City Watch today—we have a lot to look forward to.

Please subscribe to City Watch NEWS on the link below. That way, all our new articles are emailed directly to you. Oh, Happy Halloween.

October 31, 2025 1

BREAKING – THE WAR AND TREATY ARE COMING HOME FOR A CONCERT

Free Outdoor Concert in Albion MI

By John Face

July 21, 2025

On August 23, 2025, The War and Treaty will be back home in Albion MI to perform a free outdoor concert. The concert is part of the Walk The Beat event that is scheduled the same day in downtown Albion, the Walk the Beat event is free as well. Michael and Tanya Trotter make up the core of The War and Treaty. They got their start right here in Albion when they moved here several years ago and made Albion their home.

This concert will be held on the 400 block of South Superior Street, downtown Albion, beside the Albion Malleable Brewing and Homestead Bank. It is strongly suggested you bring your own chair, blanket, as there will be very limited seating available. There is NO CHARGE to attend the show. Showtime is 6:00 P.M. in downtown Albion MI. Read the press release below:

Walk The Beat Albion Returns August 23 with Star Power and Local Flavor

National headliners The War and Treaty cap off an afternoon of
community-powered music and arts.

Albion, MI — July 2025 — Walk The Beat Albion, the city’s beloved community street music festival, returns to downtown Albion on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with an exciting addition to this year’s lineup: The War and Treaty, Grammy-nominated Americana duo, will headline the After Party at 6:00 PM in front of Albion Malleable Brewery.

The free, family-friendly event transforms Albion’s downtown into a bustling hub of music, art, and community celebration. More than 20 performances at 10 locations will feature local and regional musicians, while artists, food vendors, and activity booths line Superior Street and surrounding blocks. Festival goers are encouraged to explore, listen, and vote for their favorite acts, with prizes awarded to both attendees and musicians.

“Walk The Beat Albion is more than just a festival – it’s a living, breathing showcase of our city’s heart and soul,” said Cliff Harris, Board President and longtime organizer. “We are thrilled to welcome Michael and Tanya of The War and Treaty back to Albion to help us close out the event in the most
unforgettable way.”

The War and Treaty, whose powerful vocals and heartfelt performances have earned international acclaim, return to the same streets where their musical journeys began. Walk The Beat Albion’s After Party performance will serve as both a homecoming and a community celebration, free and open to all.

Walk The Beat Albion is one of three Walk The Beat cities in Michigan, a nonprofit initiative promoting community enrichment through music and the arts. Walk The Beat Albion is grateful for the support of all of our sponsors and partners: Albion Community Foundation, City of Albion, Albion Arts Commission, Albion College, Albion-Homer United Way, Albion Malleable Brewing Co., Ford Blue Oval Battery Park, CasterCares, CreateMyTee, Decker Manufacturing, Dickerson Music Co., Galazio
Restaurant, Greater Albion Chamber of Commerce, Knauf Insulation.

July 18, 2025 0

Watch Your Council – Former Council Member Attempts to Become Interim City Manager – Has No Experience and Questionable Ethics

By John Face

October 21, 2024

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.

October 21, 2024 0