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Eaton County

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Eaton County

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Museum elevator opens new doors

Posted by Design | June 12, 2026

Deb Malewski
Contributing Writer

(Deb Malewski/TCJ – The grand opening of the new, long anticipated elevator at the Courthouse Square Museum was held June 5 with major donor Richard Trumley doing the ribbon-cutting honors.)

What began as an ambitious vision became a reality on June 5 when Courthouse Square Museum in Charlotte recognized the donors whose generosity helped fund a nearly $500,000 elevator project in the historic 1885 courthouse. 

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, supporters gathered to celebrate not only a new addition to the landmark building, but also a shared commitment to preserving local history while making it accessible to everyone.

“I’m sure my very beautiful wife, Bev, was smiling tonight,” said Richard Trumley after the dedication of the elevator to the “loving memory of Beverly Trumley.” Trumley is a World War II veteran and was the principal donor behind the elevator project. Trumley also presented the museum with an additional check that evening, bringing his total contribution to more than $300,000. Other donors recognized during the ceremony included the Joe Pray family, John Hotchkiss, and Will Pitylak, along with many others from the community.

Trumley also paid tribute to the late Edward Morey, whose efforts in the mid-1970s helped save the courthouse from demolition. After Eaton County moved its governmental offices to the new courthouse on Independence Boulevard in 1976, officials debated whether the aging building should be razed. According to Trumley, Morey almost single-handedly ensured its survival, traveling to Washington, D.C., to oversee the courthouse’s nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. The successful designation protected the building and paved the way for its future as a museum, preserving an important piece of Eaton County history for generations to come.

“The historic building would be all lawn without him,” Trumley said.

Morey’s sons, Lance and Gary, traveled across the country to attend the event.

“Dad would be so proud. It’s grown so much more than he ever expected,” Lance Morey said. They brought their father’s military uniforms to add to the collection at the museum. Morey was a US Army veteran of both World War II and the Korean War. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel before retiring.

Julie Kimmer, former manager of Courthouse Square and the driving force behind the project, declared, “I will be perfectly honest. I didn’t think we’d ever be here.”

Rod Weaver, Courthouse Square Board president, praised Kimmer for the “amazing job” she did in both fundraising and overseeing the installation of the elevator. There were many ups and downs during the project, he said, but Kimmer helped ensure everything stayed on track in the historic building.

Cody Newman, the architect from Driven Design came up with a “simple” elevator, one that was less expensive and that is installed on the exterior of the building to avoid damaging any of the historic features inside the building. The community stepped up and contributed to the efforts.

All three floors of the building are now fully ADA accessible. Weddings and other public events are frequently held in the restored third-floor courtroom, which can now be enjoyed by visitors of all abilities.

Plan a visit by checking out the museum’s Facebook page or the website at csamuseum.net. The museum is located at 100 West Lawrence. Call 517-543-6999 for information.

Charlotte

Charlotte

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Charlotte

Featured Story

Museum elevator opens new doors

Posted by Design | June 12, 2026

Deb Malewski
Contributing Writer

(Deb Malewski/TCJ – The grand opening of the new, long anticipated elevator at the Courthouse Square Museum was held June 5 with major donor Richard Trumley doing the ribbon-cutting honors.)

What began as an ambitious vision became a reality on June 5 when Courthouse Square Museum in Charlotte recognized the donors whose generosity helped fund a nearly $500,000 elevator project in the historic 1885 courthouse. 

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, supporters gathered to celebrate not only a new addition to the landmark building, but also a shared commitment to preserving local history while making it accessible to everyone.

“I’m sure my very beautiful wife, Bev, was smiling tonight,” said Richard Trumley after the dedication of the elevator to the “loving memory of Beverly Trumley.” Trumley is a World War II veteran and was the principal donor behind the elevator project. Trumley also presented the museum with an additional check that evening, bringing his total contribution to more than $300,000. Other donors recognized during the ceremony included the Joe Pray family, John Hotchkiss, and Will Pitylak, along with many others from the community.

Trumley also paid tribute to the late Edward Morey, whose efforts in the mid-1970s helped save the courthouse from demolition. After Eaton County moved its governmental offices to the new courthouse on Independence Boulevard in 1976, officials debated whether the aging building should be razed. According to Trumley, Morey almost single-handedly ensured its survival, traveling to Washington, D.C., to oversee the courthouse’s nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. The successful designation protected the building and paved the way for its future as a museum, preserving an important piece of Eaton County history for generations to come.

“The historic building would be all lawn without him,” Trumley said.

Morey’s sons, Lance and Gary, traveled across the country to attend the event.

“Dad would be so proud. It’s grown so much more than he ever expected,” Lance Morey said. They brought their father’s military uniforms to add to the collection at the museum. Morey was a US Army veteran of both World War II and the Korean War. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel before retiring.

Julie Kimmer, former manager of Courthouse Square and the driving force behind the project, declared, “I will be perfectly honest. I didn’t think we’d ever be here.”

Rod Weaver, Courthouse Square Board president, praised Kimmer for the “amazing job” she did in both fundraising and overseeing the installation of the elevator. There were many ups and downs during the project, he said, but Kimmer helped ensure everything stayed on track in the historic building.

Cody Newman, the architect from Driven Design came up with a “simple” elevator, one that was less expensive and that is installed on the exterior of the building to avoid damaging any of the historic features inside the building. The community stepped up and contributed to the efforts.

All three floors of the building are now fully ADA accessible. Weddings and other public events are frequently held in the restored third-floor courtroom, which can now be enjoyed by visitors of all abilities.

Plan a visit by checking out the museum’s Facebook page or the website at csamuseum.net. The museum is located at 100 West Lawrence. Call 517-543-6999 for information.

Olivet

Olivet

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Olivet

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Hamlin Fire Truck, Car Show funds cancer awareness

Posted by Design | June 12, 2026

Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer

(Photo provided – The first annual Hamlin Fire truck and car show raised funds for Neighbors United #WalkForThe Red, which advocates for firefighters affected by cancer and the risk to firefighters from toxic exposure.)

The Hamlin Township Firefighters Association partnered with the Hamlin Township Fire Department and Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed to host its inaugural Fire Truck and Car Show, raising funds and awareness for firefighters battling occupational cancer.

The event raised $250 for Neighbors United, in addition to donations made directly to the organization by attendees.

Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed advocates for firefighters affected by cancer and raises awareness about the risks firefighters face from exposure to carcinogens and toxic substances encountered during fires and hazardous materials incidents.

Several fire departments from Eaton and Ingham counties participated in the event, including Eaton Rapids, Olivet, Windsor Township, Charlotte, Onondaga and Leslie. Eaton Rapids firefighters raised a large American flag over the show grounds.

The event also featured a variety of classic and specialty vehicles. Among them were a 1941 Dodge COE, a 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle, several Chevrolet Camaros and a 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R.

Awards were presented in both the classic car and fire truck divisions.

David Wood received the Best in Show award in the classic car division for his 1931 Chevrolet Coupe. Steve DeKett of the Leslie Fire Department earned Best in Show honors in the fire truck division with a 1949 International fire engine.

Organizers said they collected feedback from participants and spectators throughout the day and are already considering improvements for next year’s event.

“We received a lot of great ideas and suggestions,” organizers said. “We hope to continue building on this year’s success and make the event even bigger next year.”

The association also thanked the Eaton Rapids Area Historical Society for loaning former Hamlin Township Fire Department Engine 3 for display during the event. Organizers said they hope the historic apparatus can continue to participate in future community events and parades.

The Hamlin Township Firefighters Association extended a special thank you to everyone who attended the event, entered vehicles, purchased raffle tickets, made donations and supported the cause. Organizers also expressed their appreciation to the firefighters association members, fire department personnel and volunteers whose efforts helped make the event possible.

“The support from the community exceeded our expectations,” organizers said. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make our first car show a success.”

Those interested in providing feedback or suggestions for future events can submit them through the contact form at HamlinFireRescue.com.

Anyone interested in supporting the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association or Neighbors United can visit HamlinFireRescue.com or follow the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association on Facebook for upcoming events and opportunities. Association members are also planning to participate in the Eaton Rapids Community Market on June 20, where they will offer homemade breads, soaps, jams, jellies, supporter apparel and other traditional farmers market items.

Organizers described the event as a successful first-year show that brought together firefighters, classic car enthusiasts and community members in support of an important cause. 

They hope it becomes an annual tradition that continues to grow in the years ahead.

Editor’s Note: Dan LaLone is a part-time volunteer member of the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association.

Bellevue

Bellevue

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Bellevue

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Improvements in store for Bellevue’s Keehne Park area

Posted by Design | June 12, 2026

Tracy Shick
Contributing Writer

(Tracy Shick/TCJ – Renovations at Keehne will take shape much like the picnic area at Butler Park, shown above.)

For years, Keehne Environmental Area has been one of Bellevue’s hidden gems, offering a glimpse into both the community’s industrial past and its natural beauty. However, in recent years, portions of the park have fallen into disrepair. Safety concerns led to the removal of the aging boardwalk system, limiting public access and leaving many residents wondering what the future held for the historic site.

Now, thanks to renewed investment and community involvement, the future of Keehne Park is beginning to take shape.

What many residents may not realize is that the park’s two scenic lakes were not naturally formed. They are the result of limestone quarry operations that once occupied the area. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Bellevue was home to a thriving limestone and cement industry. Workers excavated limestone from deep quarries that later filled with groundwater after mining operations ceased, creating the lakes that remain one of the area’s most unique features today.

The site is closely connected to Bellevue’s industrial heritage, including the nearby Dyer Kiln and the Burt Portland Cement Company. More than a century ago, quarry workers, railroad cars, and industrial machinery filled the landscape with activity. Today, despite the loss of the original boardwalks, the area continues to serve as an important environmental resource and a reminder of Bellevue’s rich history.

Residents received encouraging news about the future of the park during the Bellevue Village Council meeting on June 9. Ethan Jacobs, Director of Eaton County Parks, attended the meeting to provide updates on several upcoming improvements planned for Keehne Environmental Area.

Jacobs announced that a new picnic area will be installed over the next month.  The design will be similar to the popular picnic area located at Butler Park, with the addition of a canopy for shade. 

In addition to the new picnic area, Jacobs shared news regarding future volunteer efforts. Eaton County Parks has hired a new volunteer coordinator who is scheduled to begin at the end of June. One of the coordinator’s priorities will be working directly with the Bellevue community to organize volunteers for cleanup projects, habitat improvements, and future park enhancement initiatives.

The volunteer program is expected to provide residents with opportunities to take an active role in restoring and improving one of Bellevue’s most treasured outdoor spaces.

The transformation of Keehne Park from an industrial quarry to a community destination is already a remarkable success story. 

With new amenities, expanded volunteer involvement, and continued investment from Eaton County Parks, locals hope the environmental area will once again become a place where residents can gather, learn, and enjoy the outdoors.

Vermontville

Vermontville

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Vermontville

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Junior Teegen McDonald scores 1,000 points and then picks up a pitcher’s glove

Posted by Design | May 4, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Joanne Williams/TCJ: The night they will all remember, – 1,000 points, at home, in Teegen’s junior year, witnessed by mom and dad, Crystal and Darren McDonald.)

 

In a town full of athletes and athletic boosters and a house with two brothers playing multiple sports, there is bound to be competitive drive and hometown pride.

That is the way in Vermontville, where the McDonald family celebrates sons Jakeb and Teegen as they make their way into record books and winning teams.

This February saw Maple Valley High School junior Teegen McDonald score 1,000 on home court, with the crowd waving cards reading  “1,000” for all to see.

For high schoolers in general, 1,000 is a dream and it mostly happens to seniors, not juniors. Statistics say there are just a handful  of  this milestone in each state per season.

It has happened at Maple Valley two times before Teegen’s turn.

“I knew going into the (home) game (Feb. 12, 2026, against the Calhoun Christian Cougars). “It was a great feeling,” Teegen said of his rare accomplishment. “It also took the pressure off.” Cheers in the locker room called him “the GOAT.”

Teegen scored 28 points that night in the Lions’ win, a bit above his 22 or so point average. 

His coach this season has been Ryan Nevins. Teegen has also been coached by his uncle, Kevin Rost. That night, he held his 1,000-point banner with his parents, Darren and Crystal.

Jakeb is a freshman at The University of Olivet, where he pitches on the baseball team.

Teegen is a pitcher, too, for the Lions. His lanky profile and ubiquitous orange shoes are a site to see.

He has those shoes for every sport. This has become his ritual as he “keeps healthy, stays active and stays in the gym.”

Baseball Coach Bryan Carpenter writes of Teegen, “Teegen has a knowledge of sports and a belief that he is the best player on the court or on the field.  He doesn’t let the moment get too big and isn’t afraid to take the shot or throw the pitch.  He’s a gamer that steps it up when the game calls for it.”

His mother, Crystal, credits travel baseball and basketball in keeping her sons active and learning how meet and talk to others. “It’s made my kids who they are,” she said, noting that it is a sports family on both sides.

Dad Darren is also “happy” that they got past the 1,000 mark and can move on playing ball. He is one of many athletic boosters who help “supplement the sports teams’ needs” and keep athletics accessible and fun for families and the community, including a “Bullpen” pass fundraiser, providing premium parking at the baseball field.

Another supporter of Maple Valley school sports is Kevin Rost, who coached his nephew Teegen early in his career. Teegen’s family said Kevin “had a pretty big impact in getting both sons through their careers.”

Rost said he coached Teegen “no differently than any other kid,” and said ,“His success is on him.” Rost added, “He put in the extra time,” and was in the gym practicing before school.

Potterville

Potterville

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Potterville

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Gizzards aren’t the only things on the menu at the annual Potterville three-day festival

Posted by Design | May 22, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Cindy Gaedert-Gearhart/TCJ – Crowds, food, music, rides, vendors, a parade, car show and so much more. What a great way to begin summer festival season, right here in Potterville.)

Do you know what a gizzard is?

They tend to “pop up” at Thanksgiving, when folks buy whole turkeys and discover a bag containing the bird’s organ meat – heart, liver, neck, and gizzard, which is found in the digestive tract of many animals and helps break down food. Some folks refer to it as a second stomach.

Gizzards are tough, so preparation requires time, unless you deep fry it, as Joe Bristol does at Joe’s Gizzard City in Potterville. Chicken provides the gizzard of choice.

Bristol’s restaurant, more than 65 years in the family, is famous for the dish, and is a destination for many summertime travelers.

This June 4-6, Potterville celebrates with Gizzard Festival, now nationally known because of its unique delicacy and a few choice television show spotlights.

It wasn’t always that way. The late spring, early summer festival used to be known as Potterville Days, and was more homegrown for a small, community celebration. Potterville’s population is about 3,100.

When the festival dwindled for lack of money and volunteers and took a COVID hiatus, it was resurrected as Gizzard Fest.

Today, three-day event, June 4-6, features vendors, amusement rides, contests, a pageant, entertainment, a parade, car show,  and so much more. Crispy the Chicken will be there, too. The gizzardfest.org site spells it all out, including the parade on Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Now run by a community committee, Potterville hosts around 20,000 visitors.

This year’s theme is Beach Party. Next year’s, already set, is “Under the Big Top.”

Perhaps by then, more folks will learn of the lore of the gizzard.

They will also be treated well by the organizers, who, with the help of townspeople and Police Chief Richard Barry, make sure things run smoothly.

For example, there is parking at the high school, just across the street, with shuttles to take people to and fro, or an under-the-highway bridge to keep people out of harm’s way.

Barry also advised caution, as with any crowd situation. Keep your vehicles locked and valuables out of sight, he said, and, if the weather calls for it, stay hydrated.

Barry has been in Potterville for nine years, and says the police force, with reserves on hand, feel comfortable with the crowds.

The crowds are urged to give gizzards a try. If not now, when?

According to Dave Stoltzfus of Dutch Meadows Farms in Pennsylvania, “While the gizzard is not wildly popular in the United States (yet) it is considered a delicacy in other parts of the world. In places like Haiti, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Europe and Africa, it’s quite common to find the gizzard as mouthwatering street food, adorning a salad, or paired with your main meal as the perfect side dish.

In the south, you’ll often find them fried to a deliciously crispy texture or stewed for hours in a soup until melt in your mouth tender.”

He says it is “an excellent source of iron and zinc.”

Eaton Rapids

Eaton Rapids

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Eaton Rapids

Featured Story

Hamlin Fire Truck, Car Show funds cancer awareness

Posted by Design | June 12, 2026

Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer

(Photo provided – The first annual Hamlin Fire truck and car show raised funds for Neighbors United #WalkForThe Red, which advocates for firefighters affected by cancer and the risk to firefighters from toxic exposure.)

The Hamlin Township Firefighters Association partnered with the Hamlin Township Fire Department and Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed to host its inaugural Fire Truck and Car Show, raising funds and awareness for firefighters battling occupational cancer.

The event raised $250 for Neighbors United, in addition to donations made directly to the organization by attendees.

Neighbors United #WalkForTheRed advocates for firefighters affected by cancer and raises awareness about the risks firefighters face from exposure to carcinogens and toxic substances encountered during fires and hazardous materials incidents.

Several fire departments from Eaton and Ingham counties participated in the event, including Eaton Rapids, Olivet, Windsor Township, Charlotte, Onondaga and Leslie. Eaton Rapids firefighters raised a large American flag over the show grounds.

The event also featured a variety of classic and specialty vehicles. Among them were a 1941 Dodge COE, a 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle, several Chevrolet Camaros and a 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R.

Awards were presented in both the classic car and fire truck divisions.

David Wood received the Best in Show award in the classic car division for his 1931 Chevrolet Coupe. Steve DeKett of the Leslie Fire Department earned Best in Show honors in the fire truck division with a 1949 International fire engine.

Organizers said they collected feedback from participants and spectators throughout the day and are already considering improvements for next year’s event.

“We received a lot of great ideas and suggestions,” organizers said. “We hope to continue building on this year’s success and make the event even bigger next year.”

The association also thanked the Eaton Rapids Area Historical Society for loaning former Hamlin Township Fire Department Engine 3 for display during the event. Organizers said they hope the historic apparatus can continue to participate in future community events and parades.

The Hamlin Township Firefighters Association extended a special thank you to everyone who attended the event, entered vehicles, purchased raffle tickets, made donations and supported the cause. Organizers also expressed their appreciation to the firefighters association members, fire department personnel and volunteers whose efforts helped make the event possible.

“The support from the community exceeded our expectations,” organizers said. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make our first car show a success.”

Those interested in providing feedback or suggestions for future events can submit them through the contact form at HamlinFireRescue.com.

Anyone interested in supporting the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association or Neighbors United can visit HamlinFireRescue.com or follow the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association on Facebook for upcoming events and opportunities. Association members are also planning to participate in the Eaton Rapids Community Market on June 20, where they will offer homemade breads, soaps, jams, jellies, supporter apparel and other traditional farmers market items.

Organizers described the event as a successful first-year show that brought together firefighters, classic car enthusiasts and community members in support of an important cause. 

They hope it becomes an annual tradition that continues to grow in the years ahead.

Editor’s Note: Dan LaLone is a part-time volunteer member of the Hamlin Township Firefighters Association.

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