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Eaton County

Eaton County

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Eaton County

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Ezekiel – a gathering place and a house that faith and support built

Posted by Design | April 20, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Joanne Williams/TCJ: Darla Sanders (left) and Dee Anna McCarrick arrange the free items in the women’s clothing room at the House of Ezekiel.)

 

The House of Ezekiel has given rebirth to the faith that once stood as the South Cochran Church of God.

A new banner covers the sign that stood for the South Cochran Church, which organized in 1960 in Charlotte.

So much changed for so many after COVID-19, including church membership.

And then Eric and Dee Anna McCarrick came along. 

Their lives took a turn at about the same time, and when they saw the multi-purpose building (it is one of those places that is so much bigger on the inside than it looks from the outside), they saw an opportunity to grow their faith and help their community, and the House of Ezekiel – a gathering place – was formed.

The McCarrick’s leased the 2470 S. Cochran Road church building in 2025. For this Eaton Rapids couple, life changed. “Before we had a lifestyle, now, we live for Jesus,” Anna said.

The outreach began with support and inspiration from Gap’s Outreach, a Lansing area organization that supports families through resources from free food and clothing to classes and other events.

Inside these Ezekiel’s is a bounty of services and opportunities. The most outward has been a sign announcing free clothing, offered each Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. This “Clothed in Love” ministry began about a month ago. Anna said they have items for men, women, and children, including prom dresses, shoes, handbags and other accessories, all arranged in a number of rooms.

Other outreach is planned to help sustain House of Ezekiel work. The biggest is the venue itself, available for groups and parties, and equipped with multi-purpose spaces, a kitchen, and most everything anyone would need for a gathering. 

Spaces include a worship area with pews, a hall to hold about 150 people, and smaller gathering rooms.

The couple are excited to offer programming for the community at the venue as well. On Saturday, April 25 at 6:30 p.m., the Chosen Band will perform. On Saturday, June 6, there will be an Italian Night, with dinner and a silent auction, and July 16-18 a program focusing on healing trauma will be offered.

Information is on the website at houseofezekiel.org, or by calling 517-231-0443.

Charlotte

Charlotte

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Charlotte

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Annual Band Bounce brings back memories, best in music performances

Posted by Design | April 20, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Photo provided: The Charlotte Orioles Band Boosters are the backbone of planning and support for the bands program, and often supply needed equipment such as this golf cart.)

About 100 years ago, the Gershwins, George and Ira, wrote the music for a strange little musical called “Strike Up the Band.” The musical went nowhere. The rousing title song lives on.

About 100 years ago, students in the Charlotte schools started “The Symphony Six,” which has grown into a half a dozen instrumental ensembles that are collectively known as the Charlotte Bands. The music indeed plays on.

This month, the 90th annual Band Bounce will be held, April 23 and 24, featuring instrumental ensembles and a variety show, presented by students from the sixth through 12 grades. This is a long-standing, coveted event, as musicians tend to run in the families of generation after generation of Oriole students.

In 2027, the Orioles will celebrate 100 years of bands at Band Bounce. Plans are already in the making for a grand celebration. Band Bounce started in 1927, when the “new high school building was dedicated,” according to Charlotte Bands history, penned by former Director of Bands Dr. Gary T. Sullivan, who was with the school district from 1983-2010.

The excitement is palpable, but not surprising.

“The Charlotte Band culture…it’s in the DNA of the community,” said current high school bands Director Jeff Szekely. Hundreds of students participate in the instrumental music program, which includes the middle school and high school.

The Band Bounce was started primarily to offset the cost of Band Camp, or Band Retreat, he said. These days, it helps support the band students as they travel and perform at the famed Holland Tulip Festival, where they have garnered years of awards and honors.

Szekely said Band Bounce “has always been a variety show with featured concert instruments.” The performers audition for a spot on the coveted stage.

The two-night, ticketed event is at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center (CPAC), 378 State St. Both performances begin at 7 p.m., but they do differ in terms of what bands will be performing. The Variety Show, accompanied by the award-winning high school Jazz Band, is the same both nights.

Danielle Davidson is the middle school band director. She, like Szekely, studied at Central Michigan University.

This year’s Band Bounce theme is travel, she said, with the middle school focusing on the world and the high school more so the nation.

“This band program is known throughout the state,” said Davidson, who has started her teaching career at Charlotte five years ago. “I came here in high school for a statewide band event.”

The seventh and eighth graders form the Oriole Band, and there is also an elite Cadet Band.

The high school offers a concert and symphony band as well as the Jazz Band.

Toting, lifting, cooking and even dressing these musicians are members of the Charlotte Oriole Band Boosters, mostly parents who support their band children.

“Every parent who has a sixth to 12th grade band student is a member,” said Booster President Wendy Wildern. A nine-member board plans and coordinates the work, from fundraisers such as sales of freshly made apple pies in November and mattresses in the spring. The Boosters were established in 1947 by Band Director Robert K. Powell, who led the band from 1945 to 1976,

These volunteers give “time and energy to support each student,” Wildren said.

The Boosters recently applied for and received a grant to purchase a 25-foot trailer to haul band gear. They also got a golf cart for other transportation options. 

Tickets are available for the Band Bounce at CPAC, during box office hours or by calling 517-541-5690 for information.

Olivet

Olivet

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Olivet

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Vaught pegged as Olivet’s superintendent choice

Posted by Design | April 2, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Courtesy photo – Robert Vaught)

Olivet Schools has chosen Robert Vaught as its newest superintendent of schools.

Vaught, who was once a principal and teacher in the Marshall Schools, was chosen over Derek Lounds, Eaton Rapids High School principal. Both were finalists from a field of 13.

In a March 26 written statement Greg O’Dell, president of the Olivet School Board, wrote, “The Olivet Board of Education worked with Dr. Rod Green a consultant with MASB to assist us in the Superintendent search. To begin with, we set out a process and timeline so everyone would be on the same page. There were multiple opportunities for stakeholder input and feedback. We received over 200 survey results. From these different inputs, a Superintendent criteria was formed. This guided what characteristics would be critical in Olivet’s next leader.

“After reviewing applications, the Board chose six candidates for first round interviews. Some of the characteristics that we were looking for were, visibility in the community, strong communication, approachable, integrity, and experience to name a few.  

After a full day of interviews, the Board narrowed the candidates down to two to return for second round interviews. The day of second interviews, the candidates took tours of the District and took part in an open house session with any community member that wanted to come to the school and meet them. All along the way there were opportunities for community members to give the Board feedback about their thoughts on each candidate.  

That evening second round interviews took place. After interviews the Board reviewed public input forms and had lengthy discussions. It came down to who fit the criteria set forth by all stakeholders in the beginning.”   

The Board voted unanimously to begin contract negotiations with Robert Vaught. O’Dell wrote that  “the intent is to approve the contract at the Boards next meeting, April 13, and for Vaught to begin sometime in June.

O’Dell continued, “The Board would like to thank all of our staff, community members, parents and students in assisting us in this process. We couldn’t have done it without them. We would also like to thank Dr. Green for his guidance. It’s always a good day to be an Eagle and we will continue to soar into the future.”

Vaught’s personal statement on his resume reads, “Student-centered, board-focused superintendent with extensive experience leading Michigan public school districts through instructional improvement, fiscal stewardship, labor relations, facilities modernization, and community engagement.

His career has taken him to DeTour Village and Drummond Island, Battle Creek, Marshall, as well as South Haven and Greenville. He is a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Vaught will take over the superintendent’s position from interim Superintendent Dan Gilbertson.

Bellevue

Bellevue

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Bellevue

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Ch-ch-changes in Charlotte area businesses, locations just this year

Posted by Design | February 9, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Photo by Joanne Williams/TCJ: Once Mike’s Automotive, then home to Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center, now a business hub, anchored by Valhalla Value and Liquidations, 135 S. Washington St., Charlotte.)

 

Who cares what Punxsutawney Phil says about winter! Dairy Queen opens Saturday, February 7 in Charlotte.

And there is a lot going on in the surrounding area in terms of small business news.

Dan Riedy retires with a farewell party on February 8 at Riedy’s, 219 S. Cochran. The restaurant closes its doors after 46 years – once with three locations.

B’s Artistic Studio is now in downtown Charlotte at 111 W. Lovett. The move took place just after the holidays. 

Bella Grande clothing and more consignment boutique closes in March after almost two decades of success. Until the doors are locked, there are sales and deals inside 227 S. Cochran. Current owner Angel Fulkerson took over from founder Betsy Smith and has created lasting relationships with customers and consignment providers.

Deadtime Stories: The Sequel, opened in the Courthouse Square Museum in June 2025. Despite being open during festivals and concerts, there was not enough traffic for it to remain. The store closed before the new year, but the original Deadtime Stories flourishes in Lansing.

There is a new director at the Eaton County Humane Society Danielle Constant, who was recently a manager at the Northland Animal Hospital in Rockford.

The former Soldan’s pet supply, recently sold to Feeders Pet Supply, closed at the end of October 2025 in the Charlotte Plaza. A former manager wrote on Facebook that the staff was great, sales were underperforming, costs of brick and mortar were a factor, and other Soldan locations remain open.

Yes, it’s true, the former Reflections store at 129 S. Cochran is now Vikings’ Edge, an axe-throwing venue. Sneak a peek during the Wine Walk on February 12 (tickets required), or wait for the opening, February 27. As the Wood Turns owner John Laupp and neighbor from the Groomery, Capri Brown Dixon, are owners. Six lanes and unique designs are featured.

Richard’s Appliance, a mainstay in Charlotte at 630 W. Lawrence Ave.,  since 1983, is now Morton’s Appliance, offering appliance sales and repairs. Longtime owners Robin and Janice Richards retired and sold the building to Brad and Terri Morton.

The Riverside Café, a grand community spot, has been closed for about a year in Bellevue. Asking price is $300,000 for a spot by the riverside.

The former Bellevue Car Wash is now Steph’s Buff and Wash, and since owners Justin and Stephanie Keiffer took over in November 2025, changes and upgrades have been in progress.

It is hard to believe the transformation of the Windwalker Gallery front on 125 S. Cochran in Charlotte. Once an art, design and musical showplace, the Marketplace Studio Gallery is chocked with an eclectic mix of items from local folks, from herbs to clothing, mugs to jewelry. The back is still set up with a piano and stage and has been used for musical events. The Windwalker Antiques and Underground Gallery was started by the late Richard Turbin and his son, Rick, in 2012 and operated as such until Richard died in 2024. 

Also a part of the Marketplace is The Corner Market and Pantry, moving in from just down the road from its former location at Lovett and Cochran.

Seasonal Inspirations was a charming gift shop and community support for Olivet. Jamie Kita was the owner and operator, as well as one time Olivet Chamber of Commerce president. Ill health has forced her to close her shop.

When one business leaves a building, another moves right in. That’s the prosperity of the WestEnd Hub in Charlotte. Natural Journey to Health moved in with Agape Salon on Lawrence Avenue, leaving space for the newest West End Hub occupant, RK’s Unique Boutique to move right in at 517 W. Lovett. The shop should be up and running soon, says owner Randi-Kay Stine.

And still more moves in the West End, where Valhalla Value and Liquidations, which has done nothing but grown since its beginnings about four years ago, moves to 135 S. Washington, as Eaton Clothing and Furniture moves out and into space on 520 S. Robinson St., next to SIREN/Eaton Shelter.

Valhalla will not be alone in the budling as it is large enough to house multiple businesses, many fostered under Valhalla’s roof.

Vermontville

Vermontville

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Vermontville

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You have to have a plan, and know history to play this game

Posted by Design | April 2, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Joanne Williams/TCJ – Mike LaFountain has imagined, built and packaged a game of skill with local history, “Frontier: The Old Northwest.”)

Who says you don’t learn from playing games?

Game developer Mike LaFountain would beg to differ.

He has spent the better part of a year and a half developing “Frontier: The Old Northwest,” and loading it with researched history of Eaton and Barry counties as well as life in the greater Northwest territory, including Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin and Illinois in the 1800s-1840.

“It was a good way to spend my couch time,” he said .

Originally from Coldwater, his family moved to the Charlotte area to run a cattle farm. It was Mike and his father Gary who started LaFountain’s All Natural Beef, focusing on pasture-raised, naturally fed beef with a herd of about two dozen cattle. Mike built the infrastructure.

That was in 2018-2024, tough times for all. So, how does  a farmer become a board gamer?

Well, there’s another piece to this puzzle. Mike is a U.S. Navy Seabee veteran. Seabees (Construction Battalion = CB) are combat-troops with construction and repair trade skills.

He has “an analytical mind and I like history,” so, an “informative resource management game” was right up his alley and his skill set.

Mike is proud to say he “did it all himself,” from the concept to the building and design, the packaging to the marketing, which he will do at area festivals and farmer’s markets.

Mike said there are a lot of resources on the Internet to get you up and running. “It came out better than I imagined,” he said. And this was after hours and hours of testing with family and friends, mainly his wife, Chrissy and family.

Mike was especially engaged with the research for the game, which asks players to establish themselves as part of a new town in the wilderness. The game is for two to six players, ages 14 and older. 

“I did research on how much work the settlers had to do to survive,” Mike said. There was a lot to deal with, from food spoilage and illnesses to the weather to animal predators and neighbors, including the Native Americans.

“It’s unique in that it is not a mainstream game,” it’s real, Mike said, which is what resource management games are all about (remember The Oregon Trail?).

Players start out building their budding pioneer lives with negotiating for land, seed for crops and lumber to build. 

The game has its own Facebook site: Frontier: The Old Northwest. Mike plans to be at the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival and area farmer’s markets, this time, not selling meat but gaming adventure.

Potterville

Potterville

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Potterville

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Potterville finishes the year strong with 3 wins, hopes for next season

Posted by Design | March 26, 2026

Ben Murphy
Contributing Writer

(Photo provided – The Potterville Lady Vikings stood by one another through the season and finished with three wins in the final two weeks of the regular season.)

The Potterville girls basketball team finished the year with a 4-19 overall record. The Lady Vikings closed the season strong though, with three of those wins coming in the final two weeks of the regular season, including a Division 3 district opening win over Charyl Stockwell Prep, 34-14.

“We ended the season how we wanted to, winning a game in districts,” Coach Al Adams said. “All season we talked about what our goals were for the year. The number one goal was to win in the post season. Even though we didn’t take it all the way, we made a great first step with a young team.”

Having a youthful roster in the Central Michigan Athletic Conference proved to be a pretty tough task most nights, but even in games they came up short in, there was more often than not plenty of positives to take away. 

“As a young team in a tough conference, we put up some really good fights,” Adams said. “We took so many of our games right down to the last minute and came out just short. As coaches, we were able to see the growth in our freshmen players and watch them get comfortable playing varsity in one of the hardest conferences in the state. We saw our juniors step up and be leaders on and off the court. Our sophomore fifth quarter players made huge growth and gave us some really crucial minutes down the stretch. Even if the record doesn’t show it, we had a great season this year in terms of what’s next.”

The coach also pointed out some young players who helped lead the way this season.

“We had a lot of great leaders this year,” Adams said. “We leaned heavily on junior guard Aubrey Gasch and freshman guard Remmi Lienerth. Those two played almost 100-percent of the time every game. Between the two of them, we have a lot of basketball IQ on the court. They were figuring each other out this season, but once they are on the same page that will be one of the most dangerous duos in the CMAC. And we can’t wait.”

While their district loss to Stockbridge ushered in the official end of the season, Adams knows their work is just beginning in a lot of ways.

“We aren’t done yet, we have a lot to give on this team, and we are ready to put in some off-season work,” he said. “This season was a good start but there’s more to do. The end of the year is always hard. We go from seeing each other every day to seeing one another once in a while or talking over a text. Luckily, this year is a little easier than years past because we aren’t saying goodbye to any seniors. The end of the year just makes us look forward even more to the start of the next.”

Having no seniors on the roster this year means that when next winter rolls around, Adams is going to have a bunch of familiar faces in his lineup.

“We are always looking to what’s next,” he said. “We know we can be tough in the CMAC next year and we want teams to respect Potterville. In the 2026-2027 season, we can be a team other schools don’t take lightly.”

Eaton Rapids

Eaton Rapids

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Eaton Rapids

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Community matters observed by fourth graders, addressed by ER Mayor

Posted by Design | April 20, 2026

Joanne Williams
Editor

(Joanne Williams/FAN: Eaton Rapids Mayor Pamela Colestock helped fourth graders learn about government, especially the workings of the council and the responsibilities of the citizens of the city.)

What do you get when you empower fourth graders?

A meeting with your city’s mayor.

“Community Matters: Learning to Speak Up” was a civics lesson tailored by two Michigan State University interns as part of their experience in the classroom.

Student teachers Haylee Jasinski and Sierra Spallone oversaw the six-week project, under the supervision of Greyhound Intermediate School’s fourth grade teachers. They combined fourth grade classes for the project. Fourth grade teachers included Catherine Clubb and Tifanny Foote.

   (Joanne Williams/FAN: Student teachers [from left] Haylee Jasinski and Sierra Spallone produced the “Community Matters: Learning to Speak Up” curriculum for the fourth graders.)

 

First, the students and teachers took a walk in their Eaton Rapids community. They looked for any problems they thought should come to the city’s attention.

Then, they went to their classrooms and wrote letters to the city. There were two main themes: the need for more trash cans and the welfare of the general environment.

Mayor Pam Colestock was more than excited to meet with about 50 of these young citizens.

“Good morning, Mayor Colestock,” the students spoke, greeting her in unison.

For about 15 minutes, Colestock explained her job as mayor,  how the city is run, and how as a voter it is a “civic duty to help” grow the community.

She told the students that she shared the letters with council members and the Downtown Development Association. 

The students asked questions for about a half hour, about two dozen, mostly about the issues in the letters they had written: graffiti, trash, the Horner Mill site, some walking bridge repair work needed, new activities in town, and even deer populations.

The students also asked about the mayor’s job, and state and national issues, including the cost of gas. Colestock answered each question and comment clearly. 

She told them when the city addressed the trash can issue, which it will, she will let them know.

Sunfield

Sunfield

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Mulliken

Mulliken

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Dimondale

Dimondale

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