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.

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.

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