Autumn 2013 Life in Tecumseh and Surrounding Areas

COMPLI MENTARY
Summer 2014
Life in Tecumseh and Surrounding Areas
homefront
Many
Commodity Code
#8014-0719
Stay
the
lucky
ones
Visit,
2
Sherrie Beaubien
Tecumseh
517.403.5211
Betsy Beil
Tecumseh
517.403.4061
Greg Brown
Tecumseh
517.673.8902
Peggy Creech
Tecumseh
734.787.1820
David Corder
Tecumseh
517.403.9710
id d
Don Diedo
Manitou Beach
734.546.4379
Karon Dinius
Manitou Beach
517.673.8149
Amy Fulk
Adrian & Manitou Beach
517.442.9043
Debbie Greene
Tecumseh
517.403.4398
Kim Goldmann
Tecumseh
517.605.1522
April Gunder
Tecumseh
517.403.3119
Donna Haas
Manitou Beach
517.673.0186
Jim Hammond
Tecumseh
517.403.1129
Joan Haligus
Tecumseh
517.206.3983
Jim Lindau
Manitou Beach
517.605.2005
Lorey Hon
Adrian
517.403.3962
Gloria Leonard
Adrian, Manitou Beach & Ohio
517.605.0303
Paula Mamayek
Tecumseh
517.403.5427
Alison Prielipp
Adrian
517.215.8788
Lillian Nolloth
Tecumseh
517.944.5060
David Poucher
Adrian
517.403.2608
Carl & Pam Poling
Tecumseh & Adrian
517.403.5719
517.403.5720
Kay Prong
Tecumseh
517.403.3390
Shirley Smith
Adrian & Manitou Beach
517.605.7050
Barb Schrader
Tecumseh
517.673.6287
Todd Wolf
Tecumseh
517.605.4864
Glenna Stroud
Tecumseh
517.403.0455
Connie Zilka
Adrian
517.250.2222
John Sineveck
Manitou Beach
517.673.7355
Steve Choate
Adrian
517.403.1402
Patrick Hofman
Tecumseh
248.342.4604
Mike Hofman
Tecumseh
517.795.5719
Brittney Keefer
Adrian
517.605.1016
April Schnurmachacer
Adrian
516.776.4299
Joyce Smith
Adrian
517.403.0744
Sheila Thompson
Adrian
517.403.6815
3
5 ........... HOT TIME
8 ........... FANTASTIC MR. FOX
11 .......... TECUMSEH ANTIQUES
12 ......... LENAWEE FAIR
15 ......... ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
18 ......... HAYDEN-FORD MILL
22 ......... CONNECTED BY NATURE
Publisher: Jim Lincoln Creative Director: Suzanne Hayes
Production Artists: Hollie Smith, Cory Mathis, John Tressler and Koda Woodward
Contributors: Anthony Alaniz, Mickey Alvarado, Lynn Boughton, Deane Erts, Rebecca Peach,
Mary Kay McPartlin, Kerry Hamilton-Smith, Cristina Trapani-Scott,
Advertising Sales Staff: Adrienne Ayers, Sue Kotts Garcia, Suzanne Hayes, & Carla Reed
PUBLISHED SEASONALLY BY HERALD PUBLISHING COMPANY
Mailed free of charge to homes and businesses in the Tecumseh School District and beyond.
Distributed at shops and festivals all over S.E. Michigan and at State of Michigan Welcome Centers.
517.423.2174 800.832.6443
homefront@tecumsehherald.com
www.homefronttecumseh.com
P.O. Box 218, 110 E. Logan,
Tecumseh, MI 49286
homefront
Downtown Tecumseh oil
painting by Sandra S. Difazio
Displayed at Black Door Gallery
Photo by Mickey Alvarado
On the
cover
PAPERCLIP
CONTEST
Andrew Hella of
Tecumseh found the
paper clip on page 22 in
the J-Bar Hobbies ad in
the 2014 Spring issue of
Homefront.
Weve placed this paper clip in one
of our advertisements in this
magazine. Simply tell us which ad
you found it in. Well draw from
all correct entries on
August 1, 2014
and give $100 to the lucky
winner. To enter, send your
answer, address and phone
number to The Tecumseh Herald,
P.O. Box 218, Tecumseh, MI 49286, or
submit online at homefronttecumseh.com
Find the
Paperclip
29 ......... FARMING
32 ......... GARDEN IN THE WOODS
37 ......... TECUMSEH PARK
39 ......... FARM FRESH
43 ......... EXPERIENCE TECUMSEH
44 ......... HAPPENINGS
48 ......... THE OLD BALL GAME
Sherrie Beaubien
Tecumseh
517.403.5211
Betsy Beil
Tecumseh
517.403.4061
Greg Brown
Tecumseh
517.673.8902
Peggy Creech
Tecumseh
734.787.1820
David Corder
Tecumseh
517.403.9710
id d
Don Diedo
Manitou Beach
734.546.4379
Karon Dinius
Manitou Beach
517.673.8149
Amy Fulk
Adrian & Manitou Beach
517.442.9043
Debbie Greene
Tecumseh
517.403.4398
Kim Goldmann
Tecumseh
517.605.1522
April Gunder
Tecumseh
517.403.3119
Donna Haas
Manitou Beach
517.673.0186
Jim Hammond
Tecumseh
517.403.1129
Joan Haligus
Tecumseh
517.206.3983
Jim Lindau
Manitou Beach
517.605.2005
Lorey Hon
Adrian
517.403.3962
Gloria Leonard
Adrian, Manitou Beach & Ohio
517.605.0303
Paula Mamayek
Tecumseh
517.403.5427
Alison Prielipp
Adrian
517.215.8788
Lillian Nolloth
Tecumseh
517.944.5060
David Poucher
Adrian
517.403.2608
Carl & Pam Poling
Tecumseh & Adrian
517.403.5719
517.403.5720
Kay Prong
Tecumseh
517.403.3390
Shirley Smith
Adrian & Manitou Beach
517.605.7050
Barb Schrader
Tecumseh
517.673.6287
Todd Wolf
Tecumseh
517.605.4864
Glenna Stroud
Tecumseh
517.403.0455
Connie Zilka
Adrian
517.250.2222
John Sineveck
Manitou Beach
517.673.7355
Steve Choate
Adrian
517.403.1402
Patrick Hofman
Tecumseh
248.342.4604
Mike Hofman
Tecumseh
517.795.5719
Brittney Keefer
Adrian
517.605.1016
April Schnurmachacer
Adrian
516.776.4299
Joyce Smith
Adrian
517.403.0744
Sheila Thompson
Adrian
517.403.6815
Summer
2014
contents
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Abbott Accounting ...................................... 41
ABC Grow & Learn Children's Center .......... 36
Abstract Builders LLC ................................. 23
Adam's Chiropractic ................................... 43
Adrian Locksmith & Cyclery ........................ 41
Adrian Water Conditioning .......................... 45
Allegience Health ....................................... 42
August Company ........................................ 43
Awesome Finds .......................................... 10
Bailey's Watercare ..................................... 31
Baker's Propane ........................................ 30
Basil Boys ............................................. 47,50
Benham, Kent J. DDS .................................. 45
Big Boy ...................................................... 50
Billy White Roofing ..................................... 21
Blissfield Heating and Plumbing ....................7
Blissfield State Bank .................................. 23
Blissful Living ............................................. 44
Blush Boutique .......................................... 39
Bob's Arctic Cat ......................................... 47
Boutique De Joie ........................................ 23
British Tea Garden ..................................... 35
Brown and Sons Roofing ............................ 46
Burdick & Associates ................................. 28
Calder Dairy ............................................... 28
Cambrian Assisted Living............................ 42
Campbell Concrete ..................................... 41
Carpet On Wheels ....................................... 16
Chelsea Chevrolet ...................................... 49
Cherry Creek Winery.............................. 26,30
Chicago Boulevard Mental Health Services ....8
Citizens Gas Fuel Company ......................... 37
City of Tecumseh ........................................ 43
CK Antiques and Restoration ...................... 47
Classic Cabinets & Interiors ...........................9
Clear Vision Windows .................................. 49
Clinton Fall Festival .................................... 42
Clinton Farmers Market .............................. 41
Coconuts ............................................... 26,36
Comfor t 1 Heating & Cooling ...................... 18
Community Ar ts of Tecumseh ..................... 41
Companion Animal Clinic ............................. 50
Copper Nail, The ........................................ 11
CR Motors: Fonda Bozeman ....................... 50
Croswell Opera House ................................ 31
D & D Stoves .................................................4
D Printer, Inc. ................................................7
Daily Grind ................................................. 25
Daily Grind 2 Gift Shoppe ........................... 16
Dance Steps Studios .................................. 31
Desjarlais, Lawrence, MD, PC ..................... 24
Dip Stix and Stuff ....................................... 35
Dog House Restaurant, The ....................... 38
Domestic Engineer, The .............................. 41
Donna Baker & Associates CPAs ................. 45
Doug's Glass & Screen ............................... 18
Eden Foods ................................................ 38
Edward Jones ............................................. 35
Embers Bar & Grill ..................................... 26
Evans Street Station ............................... 5,26
F & S Landscaping ..................................... 45
Family and Integrative Medicine ................. 29
Farm Bureau - Jacey Clevenger .................. 28
Faust Sand & Gravel ................................... 18
First Federal Bank ..................................... 31
Foundation Realty ...................................... 51
Getaway Tours & Char ters .......................... 47
Golden Acres ............................................. 29
Graphic Addictions ..................................... 45
Great Ideas ................................................ 10
Great Lakes Family Dental .......................... 40
Grey Fox Floral ........................................... 35
Hacker Jewelers ......................................... 42
Hayes Insurance Agency, Inc. ..................... 48
Hidden Lake Gardens ................................. 18
Hinesley, James A. DDS, MS, PC .................. 27
Hitching Post Antique Mall.......................... 11
Hopscotch.................................................. 39
Horizon Travel ........................................... 22
Howard Hanna ..............................................2
Howe Plumbing .......................................... 41
idk creative decor ...................................... 21
Indian Creek Campground .......................... 35
Indian Creek Petting Zoo ............................ 46
J-Bar Hobbies ............................................ 21
J-Trees Winery ............................................ 25
Jazzercise .................................................. 31
Jeff Lee General Contractor ........................ 41
Jerry's Pub ................................................ 25
Kemner-Iott Agency.................................... 36
Lancaster Insurance .................................. 38
Legacy, The ............................................... 48
Lenawee County Fair .................................. 39
Lenawee County Visitors Bureau ................ 32
Lenawee Humane Society ..............................7
Living in Lenawee Realty ............................ 16
Main Street Stable ..................................... 25
Manchester Chicken Broil ........................... 46
Mar tin's Home Center ................................ 11
McLennan Landscape ................................. 32
Meckley's ......................................................7
Melron Electronics ................................ 41,44
Michael Andrews Concrete ......................... 14
Michigan Wares .......................................... 35
Milan Bakery, The ...................................... 47
Naugle Plumbing and Heating .................... 13
NuSash Windows ........................................ 41
O'Hara Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram ............... 17
Ollie's Group .............................................. 15
Pentamere Winery ...................................... 13
Rachel Sara Photography .......................... 33
Radio Shack ............................................... 45
Raisin Valley Golf Club ...................................8
Rich Rods and Custom ............................... 45
Rock Paper Scissors .................................. 36
Roscoe Flack Monument Sales.................... 41
Sal's Italian Restaurant .............................. 24
Saylers Accounting ..................................... 45
Schmidt and Son Pharmacy ........................ 13
Seiler's Water Systems ............................... 24
Siena Heights University ............................ 34
Skywalker Flying ......................................... 36
Southern Michigan Railroad ....................... 52
Stagecoach Stop ........................................ 27
Tecumseh Camera ...................................... 22
Tecumseh Center for the Ar ts ..................... 27
Tecumseh Coins ......................................... 35
Tecumseh DDA ........................................... 13
Tecumseh District Library ...................... 31,35
Tecumseh Family Dental ............................. 37
Tecumseh Herald ....................................... 45
Tecumseh Insurance .................................. 38
Tecumseh Paddling .................................... 24
Tecumseh Place ......................................... 33
Tecumseh Plywood ........................................4
Tecumseh Pool ........................................... 35
Tecumseh United Methodist Church ............ 41
Tecumseh Veterinary Hospital .................... 45
Theresa's Angels & Gift Shop ..................... 44
Wacker ..........................................................6
What a Find Consign for the Home.................7
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T hank You
ADVERTISERS
FALL
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DEADLINE
AUGUST 22
5
ts summertime; the days are long and the nights
are short. One of the best ways to get the most
out of nights this summer is to take in the musical
entertainment that is free to the public. There are a
number of ways to do this.
Many already know how to enjoy the balmy days and velvet
nights in Tecumseh. The city has its Classic Car and Bike Shows
the third Thursday of every month, where attendees may view
some of the finest four- and two-wheeled vehicles from days
gone by at the corner of Chicago Boulevard and North Ottawa
Street and also hear music from down the Boulevard at Music
in the Park beside city hall. These events, which continue until
fall, feature great area bands.
But there is another place where the summer music is
hot. In the back alley beside Muks Sports Pub, 107 S. Evans
St. (behind the Bidwell Building at the corner of West Chicago
Boulevard and South Evans
Street), on one Friday a month, there is another unlikely stage that has been
attracting bands and fans for the past few years-the Rooftop Concert Series.
The gigs are outdoors under the stars, and the stage is the rooftop of the
Bidwell Building. With the cooperation of Merlin Rajala, one of the owners of the
building, along with partners Marty Wallich and Rod Girdwood, Muks Sports Bar
schedules monthly concerts for the pleasure of its patrons in its outdoor patio
and any other members of the public within earshot, including customers in the
outdoor serving area of the Purple Cow ice cream parlor a few doors away.
Those of a certain age may remember when the audience area between
Muks and the Bidwell Building was a busy alley, but the business owners and the
city council, wisely, decided to close off that thoroughfare for the benefit of all.
There is still an easy access to the citys southwest parking lot from both South
Evans Street and South Pearl Street for customers to the businesses in that block,
but, for the purposes of music fans of the Rooftop Concerts, the expansion and
safety of the audience area is a definite advantage.
IT IS CURRENTLY, AS THE
OLD TUNE BY THE LOVIN
SPOONFUL GOES, HOT TIME,
SUMMER IN THE CITY, AND
MUKS HAS A HOT TENTATIVE
LINE-UP FOR THE ENJOYMENT
OF PATRONS IN THE WARM
MONTHS TO COME.
hot
time
SUMMER
in the
city
By DEANE ERTS
BIDWELL BALCONY
OVERLOOKS MUK'S PATIO
PHOTO BY SUZANNE HAYES

6
7
Karen Mukenstrum, Muks
proprietress, and Shannon Gotts, the
establishments manager, have an
in with some of the best local bands
available. Muks foots the bill, with
occasional help from other businesses,
for the performances. The take away,
however, is that the performances are
free. The band playlist depends to a large
extent on what bands are in town. Most
are eager to play in the Rooftop series.
As it happens, Rajala is a member of
Two Bricks Short, one of the featured
bands. He modestly admits to sorta
playing guitar for the band, which opened
the concert series in May. Karen gets the
credit for the scheduling and the work of
putting on the performances, Rajala said.
We are happy to provide the stage.
We always get a good crowd inside
and outside when the bands are playing,
said Muks manager Gotts. Concerts
usually start around seven and end about
eleven. For special occasions like city
festivals, we start earlier. Sometimes the
bands even perform for free, just for the
exposure and good publicity.
The audience is a surprisingly diverse
blend of ages, from the very (legal) young
to grey.
Downtown Tecumseh offers not only
good music, but the restaurants and
businesses on the Boulevard and other
municipal locations, including many in
the business district, have contemporary
sculpture on display. The sculptures rotate
annually and an entirely new collection is
currently on display.
MUSIC, ART,
GOOD FOOD,
AND GOOD
COMPANY?
WHATS NOT
TO LIKE IN
SUMMERTIME
DOWNTOWN
TECUMSEH?
As the Lovin Spoonful sang in their
rock anthem (check it out on YouTube:
Kama Sutra label, circa 1966) meet you
on the rooftop. n
517.423.6554 www.dprinter.net
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HOT TIME CONTINUED...
8
ob Fox likes diversity. Bob Fox lives diversity.
From his time on the diamond to his work
with in forensic psychiatry to community
service to his ability to match a house with an
owner, Bob Foxs life is diverse and that suits
him just fine. Most people in the area know
Fox from his 25 years as a realtor in Lenawee
County or from his work in the community.
FOX IS A PASSIONATE GUY. NOT A LOUD
AND INTENSELY PASSIONATE GUY, BUT A
GUY WHO LIKES TO LAUGH WHILE HES
TALKING ABOUT WHAT MATTERS TO HIM.
FOXS ROAD THROUGH LIFE HAS BEEN
FILLED WITH MANY INTERESTING TURNS,
AND FOX HAS APPRECIATED EVERY BEND.
The road began in Allan Park where Fox
developed his passion for baseball and family. When
he started college at Eastern Michigan, Fox played a
little baseball and studied occupational therapy. Then
the road turned and he ended up working for the
psychiatric hospital in Ypsilanti where he met his wife,
Diane, who was a nursing supervisor. She taught me
how to make a bed, Fox said with a smile. It wasnt
long before the two married.
When their family started to expand, Fox took a
job at the Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Ypsilanti
for a pay raise and more responsibility. Before
retiring in 2002, Fox held the positions of admission
unit supervisor and supervisor for all the aides.
He also witnessed a transformation of mental
health care, as patients were recognized as
individuals and the Center for Forensic Psychiatry
began to change focus. The first 10 years were
totally different from the last 15, said Fox. The
violence level went down.
Change began because the facility was not an
accredited psychiatric facility. Fox was glad to see
the changes continue after the center achieved
accreditation, creating a more healing environment
for the residents. A simple addition of fish tanks
in the facility gave a job to one of the most violent
inmates and helped center and soothe the man.
Gardens, education, and increased privacy
made a difference for everyone. Interaction between
staff and inmates became more personal, and as a
result, improved life for those employed and those
incarcerated. Wed cook for them, Fox said. We
worked together as a team. I like that concept.
The concept of team is something Fox
appreciates in the workplace as much as he does on
the ball field. He has approached every leadership
position as a coach rather than a boss, and believes
his success in every career and activity can be
attributed to guiding as opposed to telling, helping
rather than managing, and working together for
efficiency.
Baseball has helped sharpen Foxs team
mentality. Teamwork as a way of life started with
his play on the field, and has morphed into Foxs
work as a coach on the sidelines. I played a lot of
MR. FOX
Story By Mary Kay Mcpartlin
Photo By Hollie Smith

9
Amie Pelham
Owner/ Designer
Craig Barnes
Owner/ Designer
Brian Renaldi
Installer/Sales
Jenna Salenbien
Interior Designer
Josh Kohler
Installer/Sales
Lisa VanSickle
Interior Designer
10
baseball, he said.
He has been an assistant coach at Siena
Heights University for the past 25 years,
taking his love of the game to the next level.
Every summer for the past 25 years Fox
works as a camp coach for the University of
Michigan baseball camps. I started with Bill
Freehan, Fox said. He is just a great guy.
Fox experiences the joy of baseball
both in the faces of kids learning how
to play as well as in the faces of pro ball
players sharing their skills with the kids. He
remembers Prince Fielder hitting the field,
barely interested in the game while his
father, Cecil Fielder, talked to the campers
about hitting. Fox has talked to all the
greats from Al Kaline to todays professional
baseball players. Baseball has just been a
passion, said Fox. Now I like to give back
to the kids.
Fox believes the key is playing for team
success, not personal success. This is the
philosophy he carried into his career as a
realtor 25 years ago when he began selling
houses to help put his oldest son through
college.
With his recent promotion to sales
manager for Howard Hanna offices in
Adrian, Manitou Beach and Tecumseh, Foxs
goal is to create a team environment that
nurtures realtors and clients. A supportive
environment is exactly what Howard Hanna
wants in their offices, so Fox is a perfect fit.
Were operating as one group now, Fox
said. Theres a whole lot of energy.
Foxs energy keeps him busy every day,
whether its coaching baseball, showing
houses, managing Howard Hanna offices or
working in the community. The only thing left
hed like to accomplish is to build a baseball
field for kids in Lenawee County with special
needs.
As soon as he can get the money and
the time to make his field of dreams happen,
Fox will get it built. Hes very passionate
about giving all children the chance to be
part of a team and to play ball.
Fox is all about
finding the
passion in the
world around him.
Its the best way to
live and be happy. n
MR. FOX CONTINUED...
hen Crystal
Winkler opened
Gallery 1 on M-50 two
and a half years ago, she
jumped into something
she had always wanted to do. Her success
led her to the southeast block of downtown
Tecumseh in February 2013, and now she
has evolved yet again to the northeast block.
As of June 2, Winkler renamed her business
Tecumseh Antiques and More and settled
into the building formerly occupied by Te
Wild Iris on the corner of E. Chicago Blvd.
and Evans St. Its exciting, Winkler said
with a smile. Because of the new location,
we will be opened on Mondays.
A BIGGER SPACE
MEANS MORE
DEALERS AND THE
OPPORTUNITY TO
OFFER MONTHLY
CLASSES. What has stayed the
same is a focus on quality antiques ofered at
a reasonable price, and her business of estate
sales. Ive gained 20 dealers, said Winkler.
We now have 30 dealers total. I have 18
people on a waiting list.
Te brightly lit shop is flled with a
variety of classic antiques, artfully arranged
in booths that arent too crowded and have
something to interest all shoppers. Winkler
is excited to have more items that appeal to
men, allowing Tecumseh Antiques and More
to ofer a balanced selection of items for
both male and female antique afcionados.
Upcoming classes will be held in the
11
shop, early in the morning or in the evenings. Scrapbooking, foral arranging, and
furniture chalk painting are at the top of her class list.
Marian Smith of the Vintage Barn Market in Delta, Ohio, will teach the technique
of chalk painting as well as sell chalk paint in her booth at Tecumseh Antiques and
More. Smith is a well-known restoration expert and has a booth that specializes in
Victorian and primitive items. People that see her work, love it, Winkler said.
Te reopening of Tecumseh Antiques and More has seen a steady stream of
customers, both old and new, keeping Winkler, her family and her dealers busy
answering questions and selling bits of the past to people in the present. n
For more information stop in to Tecumseh Antiques and More, friend the store on Facebook, or call
517.215.8499.
and more
tecumseh
STORY BY MARY KAY MCPARTLIN
PHOTOS BY SUZANNE HAYES
antiques
MARTINS
HOME CENTER
'
antiques
12
nyone who has
been to the
Lenawee County
Fair knows
that it is one of the premiere
agricultural showcase for the area,
but it also holds the title as the
longest running fair in Michigan.
This year, when the midway opens
and the buzz of 4-H showing
begins, the fair will mark its 175th
anniversary. In a present day
that has seen the demise of the
Michigan State Fairgrounds, its
no small achievement that the
Lenawee County Fair has met
this milestone. Londa Pickles,
who is co-chair of the Lenawee
County Fair 175th Anniversary
Celebration along with Tecumseh
veterinarian Dr. Lorrie Tritt,
credited the volunteers and
families that have continued to
support the fair generation after
generation.
The key to the fairs
success is that
families, generation
after generation, have
experienced the fair
through exhibiting and
they have a love for the
fair and great pride in
it, she said.
Many have
dedicated time, not only
as fair participants,
but as volunteers and
Pickles added that the
fair would be nearly
impossible to run
without volunteers. I
cant say enough about
the dedication and
thousands of hours
that go into the fair, she said.
Very little of that is paid labor.
That is why the fair has continued
and keeps growing strong.
The result of all that hard work is a week filled with all kinds of activities, from 4-H families setting up camp to
homemade meals at the Grange building, the oldest building on the fairgrounds, to the carnival and the fair food
to the Frosty Cows delicious ice cream treats provided by the Holstein Association to the big name performers
that take the stage each year.
The fair has its traditions that
bring crowds back year after
year.
As big and full of activity
and thriving as it is now, the
Lenawee County Fair had
humble beginnings in a little
warehouse on South Main
Street in Adrian. The fair began
as a way to showcase the rich
agricultural heritage that sprung
up in the area following its 1824
settlement. The Agricultural
Society of Lenawee County
(ASLC) was established as
the sponsoring body for the
event. Once established, the
fair became an annual event,
though the venue changed frequently until 1859, when the organization acquired a portion of an island on the
River Raisin near the Maumee Street Bridge. Challenges threatened the fair at time, including an 1877 flood that
destroyed much of the grounds and two years later the tragic collapse of the newly built grandstand that was
LENAWEE
COUNTY FAIR
CELEBRATES
175
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A
R
S
By CRISTINA TRAPANI-SCOTT
JULY 20-26
FAIR
WEEK
at capacity at the time of its demise. Fair
organizers rallied back from hard times and
a handful of years later, the ASLC purchased
the location that has been the fairs home
for nearly 130 years. Since then, the fair has
experienced strong years and lean years,
but the organizers have always risen to the
occasion. Kay Kutzley, who chairs the Lenawee
County Fairs advertising committee, said
the fair is definitely thriving. The barns are
full again, the youth engaged in rewarding
projects, and the American tradition of a
county fair is alive and well in Lenawee County
due the efforts of many, many volunteers,
she said.
TO COMMEMORATE
THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY,
THIS YEARS FAIR WILL
INCLUDE A REUNION
OF PAST FAIR QUEENS.
The queens contest has always been a
showcase event that kicks off the festivities
for the week. In addition, Grange Hall will
feature a centennial farm display with more
than 60 Lenawee County centennial farms
featured. Each of Lenawee Countys villages,
cities and townships has been asked to
provide historical information. That also will
be displayed in Grange Hall. New this year, will
be a taxidermy display featuring all kinds of
animals in their natural setting as well as a car
and bike cruise that will be featured Sunday
on the midway. The highlighted showpiece
of the 175th anniversary celebration will
be the new mural in the Womens Congress
Building that features a pictorial history of the
Lenawee County Fair.
Along with the new events, fairgoers
can look forward to the excitement of the
traditional fair activities, including the Queen
Pageant, the carnival rides, the grand stand
events headlined by country singer Tyler Farr,
and of course the many, many 4-H exhibits.
Its the tradition and history that makes the
fair so strong, said Pickles. There are lots
and lots of people who met spouses at the
county fair. We have people who their parents
were on the board and now they are on the
board. Its just such a tradition. We think the
best is yet to come. Thats our fair theme and
we really believe that.
The Lenawee Country Fair runs from
July 20 to 26. The fairgrounds are located
at 602 N. Dean Street in Adrian. For further
information visit lenfair.com. n
13
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Look in on our eclectic mix of great shops, pubs, eateries
and events! Come craft a mini vacation or stay and craft a life.

M
usic in the Park
Classic Car & Bike Show
Sidewalk Sales
Pet Parade Safari
Pig Jig Pig Roast Beer Tent Plein Air Paint Out & Quick Draw

Adams Park 6-8pm
Downtown 6-8pm
Downtown 9am-5pm
Sat 10am Downtown
Fri 4-Midnight Sat Noon-Midnight
Daytime Painting





Street Dancing and Live Music
14
15
Story by KERRY HAMILTON SMITH
Photo by HOLLIE SMITH
G R A T I T U D E
heres nothing like a nice, refreshing swim on a hot summer
day. The Tecumseh area is near a multitude of lakes and ponds
that tempt a head first dive, but dont do it without knowing the
waters exact depth. Take it from Brian Elliott. On July 20, 2005,
two years after graduating from Tecumseh High School and on
summer break from his sophomore year at Central Michigan
University (CMU), Elliot dove head first into shallow waters at
Loch Erin near Onsted, changing his life forever. I dont remember a whole
lot of it; I only have flashes, Brian said. The next thing I remember I was
underwater and couldnt get up. The next thing after that I remember being
in front of the boat talking to the paramedics. After that I remember waking
up in a (diagnostic) scanner; it was about a week later.
Brian had broken his c-spine and severed his spinal cord, leaving him
without the use of his legs and only partial use of his arms. Do not despair.
Brian is doing just fine, and his attitude is one of gratitude, patience and
resilience. He offers many motivational messages and inspires those he
meets.
After surgery at Toledo Medical Center and three months of in-patient
rehabilitation at the University of Michigan Hospital, Brian came home to
his parents house. Gail and Randy Elliott, with the help of many Tecumseh
businesses, building professionals and friends, retrofitted their home to
accommodate his wheelchair. The owners of Raisin Valley Golf Course
put on a fundraising tournament to help offset some of the medical costs,
Brian said.
There were other businesses that rose to the occasion some of which
included Carpet on Wheels, Martins and Tecumseh Plywood,
donating items at a discount or at cost. Pat Dunn did all the painting.
John Church did the plumbing. John Russink, Ken Roberts, Bob
Vogel, Kevin Murphy all worked on the modifications as well. They
didnt ask for anything in return. Theres no real way to say thank
you to each and every one for what they did, said Brian.
ITS GREAT GROWING UP IN A
SMALL TOWN WHERE PEOPLE SAY HI
AND WANT TO KNOW HOW YOURE
DOING. BEING IN A COMMUNITY
THAT CARES WHERE PEOPLE WILL DO
THINGS FOR YOU WITHOUT LOOKING
FOR ANYTHING IN RETURN WELL,
TECUMSEH, ITS A GREAT PLACE,
BRIAN SAID.
Those businesses and individuals will likely feel happy and
satisfied when they know what Brian has done since the accident.
During a year of physical therapy after the accident, Brian met a
researcher who was studying Functional Electrical Stimulation at the
Cleveland Clinic. Luckily at the time, a satellite office was operated
at University Hospital. Brian had several electrodes implanted in key
leg and lower back muscles that are used for standing.

BRIAN WITH FAMILY DOG

MUGSY AND CONSTANT
COMPANION, ZEUS (R)
16
The electrodes cause muscle
contractions that straighten the legs. Using
a walker to help pull himself up, Brian
has been able to stand. While the satellite
office has closed down, Brian still does the
exercises to keep his muscles and leg bones
strong. Along with the physical adaptations,
Brians emotional and psychological
wherewithal has also been modified.
You have to have a sense of humor and
patience. It takes a lot of time and knowing
that itll take a lot of time helps, said Brian.
I dont have fine motor skills in my hands
but I can move my arms. Ive accepted it.
Not walking is not that big of a deal. I always
think theres somebody thats worse off
than you.
One of Brians spinal physicians was a
paraplegic and served as an inspiration.
You can get by. I can still do pretty much
anything I want to; its just a matter of
finding a way to do it, Brian said.
While the accident threw his studies off
for a time, Brian went back to CMU in the
fall of 2006. An apartment was modified
to accommodate a wheelchair and Brian
now uses a van with an elevator and hand
controls. He also has his dog, Zeus, to keep
him company. He graduated with a Bachelor
of Science degree in 2009. Not able to find
a full-time position, Brian returned to CMU
in 2012 and will be wrapping up his Master
of Science degree in sport administration
in August.
This summer, Brian will intern with
Lansing United, a member of the National
Premier Soccer League. He will be working
with the owner, general manager, coaches
and athletes putting together press releases
and organizing meetings and events.
After graduation, he has other goals. I
hope to go to Florida unless some awesome
job comes out of this internship, Brian said.
The Pompano Beach area where his
sister works offers a bigger sports market
and more importantly, theres no snow.
Winter is a big hindrance to him.
In the meantime, Brian has been
teaching others about the dangers of diving
into water without knowing whats below. I
got involved in Think First out of St. Joes
(Hospital) in Ann Arbor. I talk to students
in classrooms and tell them to think first,
feet first. Especially now that its nicer out,
people need to be aware. A broken arm
or broken leg is nothing compared to a
severed spine, said Brian. n
GRATITUDE CONTINUED...
17
18
ICCAJIC
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faustsandandgravel.net
IAUST
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GRAVEL
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SIVICS
19
The Hayden-Ford Mill, at 703 E. Chicago, Tecumseh, was built in 1835
by George Blanchard, a Tecumseh merchant, to grind the wheat for the
local farmers. William Hayden bought out Blanchard in 1858 and his son,
Levi, refurbished the local economic engine, after a catastrophic fre
destroyed it.
The mill became nationally famous through the Dynamic Kernels
project begun by third generation mill owner, Perry Hayden, which
turned a cubic inch of wheat into a vast harvest of more than 2,600
acres of wheat as documented in Life magazines July 24, 1944, issue,
with the help of Henry Ford.
Ford, known mostly for his own pioneering in the auto industry,
was a local land owner and frequent visitor in the area. He knew a
good industrial site when he saw it and bought the mill in the 1930s to
process his pet project-soybean production. The mill was later enlisted
in the Second World War victory effort as an adjunct facility in the
manufacturing parts of B-24 Liberator bombers.
Today, the facility is still a vital part of the city life of Tecumseh. It
functioned for years as the citys community center until a new center
was constructed on North Evans Street.
In the entrepreneurial spirit of the old mill, a new generation of
businesses has embraced the building, here are two...
put my kayak in, and I was hooked. Thats the way Mark Johnson described his first
experience on Globe Mill Pond, behind the Hayden Ford Mill (originally built in 1844),
also known formerly as the community center, in Tecumseh. At the time, he was in
town to visit his parents, Ron and Marge Johnson.
Mark knows kayaking and watercourses. Before he and his wife, Jennifer, opened
Tecumseh Paddling Company in the mill, he was a whitewater rafting guide in West
Virginia.
The Johnsons have operated Tecumseh Paddling Company for a year now. Last summer, the
launching docks were on the shoreline directly behind the mill. This year they have three docks
near the public boat launch near the mill and will be building a new office near their new docks.
The city has been extremely helpful in getting this business going, said Mark. Theyve
provided us with advice and encouragement above and beyond. Weve had a better first year than
we really expected.
Weve been happy in the mill, said Jennifer, but weve kind of outgrown it. It will be easier for
us and more convenient for our customers to have our location closer to the docks. Were really
looking forward to building our new headquarters.
Tecumseh Paddling Company offers a wide range of self-propelled watercraft and watercourses
on the River Raisin, Globe Mill Pond (behind the mill), and The Loop, a course which allows
paddlers a circuit that incorporates the pond and part of the river. The company also offers
transportation for their own watercraft or for paddlers personal watercraft to a launch in Clintons
Tate Park, about a ten-minute transport from the Tecumseh base.
THE TRIP DOWN THE RIVER RAISIN, ONE OF THE GENTLEST
AND MOST CONVOLUTED RIVERS IN THE NATION, BOASTS
UNPARALLED VIEWS OF LOCAL FLORA AND FAUNA,
INCLUDING DEER, WATERFOWL, TURTLES, MUSKRATS, AND
CRANES, NOT TO MENTION THE OCCASIONAL EAGLE.
The voyage from Clinton is neither for amateurs nor the faint of heart, however. The trip
takes about four hours and requires ducking trees and includes two portages, but the rewards in
I
By DEANE ERTS
HAYDEN-FORD MILL
NEW KIDS ON THE POND

20
scenery and cardiovascular stimulation
are worth it for the seasoned paddler.
Mark takes the full route from Clinton
to Sutton Road weekly to make sure that
the course is navigable. I have help with
that from other kayakers who help clear
away any obstacles, he said.
For the family cruise, the Johnsons
recommend the River Raisin Run (a.k.a.
The Loop), a 1.3 mile trip through Indian
Trails Crossing Park, adjacent to the
mill, that ends where it began at the
companys dock. There are also trips
downstream from the mill with pickups at
either Russell or Sutton roads.
For anyone looking for a quiet
but invigorating paddle on the pond
there are a variety of watercraft other
than the more versatile kayak and
canoe. Rowboats, paddleboats, and
paddleboards are also available. n
www.tecumsehpaddling.com, fnd the
company of Facebook or 517 423.2700.
nyone who remembers the space that J. Trees Cellars wine tasting room now occupies will be
amazed at the transformation that has occurred. Designed to receive wine lovers, the new
tasting room looks out on Globe Mill Pond, an impoundment of the River Raisin.
The tasting room is a confluence of two of Treloars passions, making wine and bringing
it to oenophiles (people who enjoy wine). Treloar is a
Michigan State University graduate who majored in botany/
plant pathology/horticulture and worked at MSU for seven
years as a research technician, experience which has
served him well in his wine-making venture.
He started his vineyard on the family farm in 2006
and opened his first wine-tasting room in Blissfield, across
the street from the Hathaway House, in 2010. A Blissfield
native, he now lives in Tecumseh with his wife, Brooke, who
is a local pediatric health care specialist.
We had a hard winter this year, Treloar said, but
we grow 15 cold-resistant varieties of grapes that are
French and American hybrids. They did remarkably well,
considering the conditions. They have terrific root systems,
so the damage was minimal, and were in good shape
for the next harvest. The hardiness of his vines spared
the time and expense of replanting those vines most
affected. It takes from four to five years for a vine to begin
producing harvestable grapes.
Treloar opened
his tasting room in
Tecumsehs historic
Hayden-Ford Mill
in early April after
substantial renovation to the
portion of the building he
rents from the city. Most of the
revamping was accomplished
through his own efforts. The
bar is constructed with barn timbers he gleaned locally and the bar top is marble rescued from a Toledo bank demolition. In
back of the bar is row upon row of wine bottles. As proud as he is of his wine and sparkling wine, which were featured on
the prestigious Pioneer Wine Trail of Southeastern Michigan, he is also proud of his companys hard cider, also offered in the
tasting room.
Were working on a patio area that we hope to be opening in about three weeks [late June], he said. We should be
able to place about 20 tables out there so people will be able to have wine and dinner next to the pond. The city has been
extremely helpful getting us set up.
Besides the beverage offerings, J. Tree Cellars has a food menu. When the patio is fully functional, there will be a meat
smoker with pork shoulder and brisket for patrons to enjoy with their wine or hard cider.
Currently, the hours of the tasting room and pending patio are Thursday and Friday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from
11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. We may expand on those hours in the future, Treloar said. For the time
being, customers are welcome in the rustic tasting room, where a food menu is currently available. n
www.treeswines.com or 877.304.3254.
OWNER JON TRELOAR HAS COMPLETELY CHANGED THE CONFIGURATION AND THE
ATMOSPHERE OF THE INTERIOR TO CREATE AN INVITING AMBIENCE IN WHICH TO SAMPLE THE
REASON FOR THE RENOVATION HIS WINE, WHICH IS PRESSED FROM GRAPES GROWN IN HIS
VINEYARD IN PETERSBURG ON LAND HIS FAMILY HAS FARMED FOR MORE THAN 100 YEARS.
TECUMSEH PADDLING CONTINUED...
21
22
Gregg Perez
patterns his art
around his life
By CRISTINA TRAPANI-SCOTT
THE ARTIST
Anyone familiar with the arts in Lenawee County will likely recognize
artist and Tecumseh resident Gregorio Perezs distinct linocut prints,
often featuring hints of the areas flora and fauna. Not only has Perezs
work been featured in nearly every arts-
based event in Lenawee County, but he has
generously shared the nuances of his artistic
process by demonstrating the art of linocut
at fairs for all who are curious enough to stop
and watch or chat with him.
Art and creativity have always been a
part of Perezs life in one form or another.
An industrial design major and art minor at
Western Michigan University, he got his formal
start in classic media such as oils. After
college, he moved from industrial design to
architectural engineering and has worked in that realm ever since. Perez
said he really didnt make art for about 10 years following college. I
traveled a bit, he said, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, but I found I
really missed making art.
Thats when he purchased some watercolors and started painting
again. He experimented with both watercolor and acrylic. I chose
watercolor and acrylic because when I was in college I couldnt stand
the smell of turpentine. I spent so much time
working in rooms with bad ventilation, Perez said.
With his background in art, he thought
watercolor would be easy, but Perez said it was
tougher than he expected. Still, he kept at it and
connected with other local artists through the
Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts (LCVA), and
began entering LCVA monthly shows. Thats
where I got a chance to see other artists working
in different media, said Perez. I saw a display of
a simple linocut and fell in love with it.
That prompted him to purchase a linocut kit
and begin experimenting. A type of printmaking, linocut is similar
to woodcut, but rather than a design being chiseled into wood it is
chiseled into linoleum. Ink is spread over the linoleum and then the
block is pressed on paper or cloth.
CONTINUED PAGE 50...
23
CONTINUED PAGE 50...
24
139 E. Chicago Blvd
Downtown Tecumseh
517.42.GRIND
tecumsehdailygrind.com
25
Alfresco
DINE
Come for breakfast; speciality
coffees, pastries, quiche. Stay for
lunch; house salads, sandwiches,
more. Spend the night upstairs; our
spacious, cozy B&B. Catering to
you, your family, or a crowd.
Open 7am-6pm Mon-Sat.
RELAX IN THE COURTYARD
139 E. Chicago Blvd
Downtown Tecumseh
517.42.GRIND
tecumsehdailygrind.com
PROMOTION
Happy hour Mon - Fri 4-6pm, lunch & dinner
specials daily, Michigan beers & wines! Annual
BBQ, Beer & A Band Backyard Party -June
25th! Local, casual, seasonal menu Thursday
nights at Hathaway House June - Sept, Garden
Wine Dinner- August 23
BEAUTIFUL
1116 N Main
Blissfield
517.486.2144
mainstreetstable.com
BACKYARD PATIO
Fun, affordable, fresh farm to fork menu every Saturday
7-10pm on the deck. Seven unique award winning hard cider
on tap and live entertainment!
SATURDAY SUNSET DECK
11025 S. Jackson Rd.
Somerset Center
517.688.3455
flavorfruitfarm.com

ON
THE
Who doesn't like to
We found some great area pubs and
restaurants where you can eat and
drink under the sun and stars.
Relax and sample our wines
and hard ciders along with a
panini, small plate or indulge
in our cider marinated
smoked brisket and pulled
pork. Music at the Mill
every Sat through Sept at
the Hayden-Ford Mill.
WATERFRONT PATIO
877.304.3254
www.treeswines.com
703 E. Chicago Blvd.
Tecumseh

Outdoor deck overlooking the South shore of Wamplers Lake.

Restaurant & Marina. Great seafood, steaks sandwiches &
pizza. Open daily for lunch & dinner. Entertainment Fri & Sat
featuring live music, karaoke, & Djs. Eat. Drink. Rock. Roll.
650 Egan Hwy. Brooklyn
517.467.4700 jerryspub.com
COME TO THE LAKE

26
PROMOTION
coconutsgrilleandbar.com
4321 US 12 Tipton 517.456.NUTS (6887)

GET YOUR TROPIC ON

Our Tiki is perfect for true tastes of the Florida Keys. Surf-n-Turf
Specials every night, cheeseburger in paradise, tropical drinks,
keylime pie. Live Music Sunday (3-6) Wed (5:30-8:30). Open mic
Wed. Perfect for parties. Open Tues - Sat at 4pm, 3-8 Sunday.

Full service. Beer,

wine, spirits served
from our deck!
Monday 1/2 off
Michigan beers.
Daily lunch & dinner
specials. Happy
hour mon - fri
3-6pm. Saturday
karoke 9pm, sunday
brunch 12-4. Open
Mon - Sat 11-2am,
Sun 12-12.
517-423-2601
370 W. Chicago
Tecumseh Plaza
HAPPY HOUR
HERES TO
The place to be this Summer!
Relax and enjoy seasonal
cocktails and delicious summer
plates from the kitchen. Music
on the Patio 2nd Fridays.
Happy Hour T-F 3-6 pm:
drink specials and 1/2 off
appetizers!
517.424.5555
evansstreetstation.com
110 S. Evans St. Tecumseh

GATHER WITH FRIENDS

Enjoy the sounds of solo and duo
musicians while you enjoy wine and
appetizers overlooking the vineyards from
7-9pm at Cherry Creek Winery! Starting
Thursday, July 3rd - September 11th.

US 12 at Silver Lake Brooklyn 517.592.4663 cherrycreekwine.com

TWILIGHT TASTINGS
BEAUTIFUL SUNSETS
delicious dishes
summer cocktails
live music
scenic views
27
specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial
orthopedics for children and adults
Members
American Association of Orthodontists
126 Herrick Park Dr. Tecumseh, MI 49286
Phone (517) 423-6300
2433 Oak Valley Dr. Ste. 200 Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone (734) 769-7600
www.hineslyorthodontics.com
517.424.5555
evansstreetstation.com
110 S. Evans St. Tecumseh
28
Dairy Farm & Country Store
394 E. Monroe St., Dundee
734-529-3683
JClevenger@fbinsmi.com
FarmBureauInsurance.com
Your local agent insures your
Come see us at the Mayfy Festival, June 20-21!
Drawings for a George Foreman Grill, Cooler gift
set, and other free giveaways.
Jacey Clevenger
LUTCF, FSS
29
Story and photos by CRISTINA TRAPANI-SCOTT
Growing character at D & C Wielfaert's
ull into David and Cindy Wielfaerts farm, D & C Wielfaert
Farm and Greenhouse, on any given day and youll
be greeted by a big old black lab. Its a classic farm
with red barns and coops standing against wide open
backdrops and chickens wandering across the drive that
leads to the greenhouse.
If no one appears immediately, odds are David and Cindy as
well as Cindys sister, Eileen, are in the greenhouse. The youngest
of their five children, Lucas, is most likely tending to some project
on the 80-acre farm. Spring, of course, is a busy time for the
Wielfaerts, who have been in the flower and plant business for more
than 30 years. The family not only has a retail greenhouse on their
property, but they keep a full weekly schedule of selling flowers
and plants at outdoor markets, including the Northville, Clinton and
Saline farmers markets and the Ann Arbor Artisan Market.
David and Cindy began farming the property they currently live
on in 1979. There was never any question that the couple would
farm. They both come from families who have farmed throughout
Michigan for many generations, though flowers and plants werent
exactly what David thought of first when he thought of farming.
In my family and Daves family greenhouses were only for
growing produce, Cindy said. Dave used to be totally against
planting flowers. Then he got really good at it.
Early on, they sold wholesale plants at Eastern Market in
Detroit. In 2000, however, Dave, who already battled juvenile
diabetes, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The hours it took
to keep the wholesale side of the business were taxing, so David
and Cindy turned primarily to retail.
All five of their children play a part in helping their parents
with the farm as do their son-in-laws Matt Lentz and Phil Irwin.
They have all grown up working on the farm and going to the markets with
their parents. For David and Cindy, it is humbling for them to see how their
children have been inspired by their lives on the farm. Johanna Lentz, the
oldest of the five, graduated from Michigan State University (MSU) with a
degree in horticulture and teaches horticulture at the Lenawee Intermediate
School District TECH Center. Alyson Irwin, who comes next, also graduated from
MSU with a degree in crop and soil sciences. She now works for Wilbur-Ellis in
Blissfield. They both help at markets as do Brittany and Jonathan . All four are
graduates of Britton Deerfield Schools (formerly Britton-Macon Area School).
Lucas is in his final year of high school there and, much like his older siblings,
agriculture is in his blood.
In a day and age when many kids are working for cell phones, video games
and cars, Lucas is rebuilding antique tractors and eagerly spending time in the
field experimenting with what he learns in Future Farmers of America (FFA)
and 4-H. All of it has inspired a dedication to and vision for the farm that at its
foundation involves family.
I look at my hand, said Lucas. The farm is my palm and each of the five
fingers is a different aspect of the farm; crops, animals, produce, greenhouse,
landscaping. I think all five of us could each take a part.
Lucas, like his siblings, has been involved in the Britton chapter of 4-H,
showing animals each year at the Lenawee County Fair. This year hes set to
have an animal to show in every barn at the fair. His freshman year, Lucas
also joined Future Farmers of America. FFA is where Lucas really felt he found
like-minded kids that were eager to exchange ideas about farming, and the
organization nourished his passion for farming. He believes so strongly in FFA
that he has served as vice president of the LISD TECH Center chapter of FFA
and was recently elected treasure of Region II FFA. Lucas has his sights sets on
the presidential seat at the state level.
Along with holding office, this year Lucas earned state and national awards
in the FFA Skills Test. Everything he has done with FFA has opened his eyes to
LUCAS AND CINDY
SPRING PLANTING

30
what he could do at home to expand D & C.
Among other things, Lucas hopes to turn a chicken coup located on the property into a produce
and flower shop, and he has plans in the works to build a produce stand that he will pull to the
roadside with the 1952 Allis-Chalmers WB tractor he rebuilt. In addition, Lucas has taken what he
has learned in FFA and applied it to various aspects of the greenhouse.
He has learned ways to use all the space he has to grow different kinds of food. Lucas also
experiments with sustainable practices in growing things naturally and using much of what is
produced at the farm to do so. Ive learned a lot in the past two years, he said. I use everything I
learn in FFA to help at home.
Lucas is quick to point out that his parents work ethic and dedication to the farm are really what
inspires his passion for farming.
My mom grew up farming and her family would spend all day out in the field. My dad missed half
his senior prom to go pick produce. It just shows me how dedicated they are, said Lucas.
IM TRYING TO MAKE MY DAD AS PROUD AS
I CAN IN THE TIME I HAVE LEFT WITH HIM. HE GOT
SICK AT THE HEIGHT OF HIS CAREER. I WANT TO
SHOW HIM THE SUCCESS OF THE FARM.
DAVE AND LUCAS IN
THE GREENHOUSE
Eventually, Lucas hopes to expand the wholesale side of the business again. He is saving the
money he earns working now at the farm and at the markets for college, where he hopes to follow
his oldest sister in studying horticulture in a four-year program.
Ultimately, though, he believes the success of the farm comes down to family. The family has
rallied around David and Cindy, especially now that David is wheelchair bound. In addition to working
together to build the business, they are giving back.
In light of what has happened with Daves health Cindy wanted to do something to benefit
multiple sclerosis. They now hold an event at the farm each year before Mothers Day where kids
can come and paint pots and plant flowers in them to give to their moms on Mothers Day. The
money raised from the events is donated to MS organizations. Cindy said the family plans to choose
a different charity each year. n
12922 Milwaukee Road in Britton. 517.451.8352.
FARMING CONTINUED...
31
PLEASURE?
{ Print or Digital }
whats your
32
hen Sherrie Birchfield and her
husband, Ron, purchased five
acres of heavily wooded bliss just
south of downtown Tecumseh 25
years ago, she had a dream. Sherrie
envisioned perennial and vegetable
gardens dotted throughout the acreage that would blend with
the natural beauty of the existing woods. Although the bulk of
her gardens would be filled with perennials, her plan was to
add annuals each summer to punch up the color and texture
of the landscape.
Bed by bed, Sherrie worked her land. She left the large
trees and, with Rons help, painstakingly removed all the small
scrub trees and undergrowth. Her natural method of bed
preparation was to spread newspapers over the proposed
garden area, then add straw and grass clippings. Sherrie
shared that worms are drawn to this method. She also
added her husbands leftover fish worms to the mix. In a
years time the paper, straw and grass became rich soil and
another new garden bed was born.
Ron collected landscape boulders from local farmers
fields for Sherrie to use as borders for her growing number
of beds. To frame their acreage at the roadside, they planted
many pine trees years ago which today create a beautiful
backdrop to the landscape. There is a long row of privets
whose fall berries provide a feast for the birds right into the
winter months. There are family memories here, too. Sherries
grandpa made the two colorful, vintage whirligigs that happily
spin in one of her sun gardens.
just look at us now!
The gardens sing with lush peonies, lilies, phlox creeping
over rock borders, dragon sedum and many varieties of
hostas just to name a few of the dozens of varieties of
perennials. Sherrie
started to grow
grapes a few years ago
and their vines now gently
meander across the west fence
of the vegetable garden.
Everywhere you turn on this acreage
there is something interesting growing in
the twelve large beds, from a large strawberry patch in one corner of the acreage to the
raspberry bushes sharing a garden with many other delicious vegetables. The raspberries
were originally her moms and grandmas, who both enjoyed flower and vegetable
gardens. These bushes produce both red and golden raspberries around the 4th of July.
Sherrie and her family eat most of their harvest but sometimes there just might be enough
left for some jam preserves. Sherrie said, One of my favorite gardening chores is picking
and, of course, eating the berries right off the bush.
Natural Irrigation Of Course!
At the beginning Sherrie trenched hoses from the hose bib at the house to each new
bed. Today a 220 gallon water reservoir is located just behind Sherries storage shed.
She comments, A good rainfall will fill this reservoir just with the rainwater from this small
sheds roof. When she connects soaker hoses to the tank, her thirsty plants receive
Mother Natures nectar in lieu of cold well water.
Sherries goal is to be as organic as possible and not to have to buy any vegetables
for the family meals. Viewing the thriving vegetable garden, she has obtained this goal.
wildlife a love/hate relationship
Along with nature comes wildlife and the Birchfields property is home to plenty - from
insects to rabbits and from squirrels to deer. With lots of fencing, netting and natural
insecticides, she battles them every summer and tries to keep them in check.
The Birchfields love northern Michigan and wished to bring that up-north feeling to their
Tecumseh acreage. They have succeeded and exceeded their original vision for this beautiful
land. Sherrie is a true gardener in every sense from her knowledge of natural composting
and fertilization to her use of vivid color combinations in the many perennial beds surrounding
her home. Visiting a garden of this level, just brings a little bit of up-north Michigan heaven! n
GARDEN
Story by LYNN BOUGHTON
Photos by HOLLIE SMITH
IN THE
woods
33
Tecumseh Place I & II Memory Care
The Fieldstone Assisted Living
Tecumseh
1311 Southwestern Dr.
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517.423.3374
Enjoy
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34
PROMOTION
Siena Heights University Graduate College
517.264.7662 sienaheights.edu/graduate
GraduateCollege@sienaheights.edu
ur Graduate Education Program
prepares students for the
EDUCATION CAREER they want!
iena Heights Universitys (SHU) Graduate Education
Program has a history of producing successful, job-
ready students for a multitude of careers in the field
of education.
SHU not only offers programs in
early childhood and special education,
and central administration, but also
subject specific programs like language
arts, chemistry and biology.
Through SHUs multitude of state
and national accreditations, along
with a faculty that brings real-world
experiences into the classroom, SHU
has the tools to prepare graduate students for working in
todays career fields. Students will often comment that they
love to hear our stories about our experiences, said Carrie
Mitchell, Director of the Education Program at SHU.
With SHUs small size, faculty can work closely with
students. We meet with our students regularly, she said,
We can better support them.
Recently, SHU combined its
undergraduate and graduate
programs for education into a
single entity, offering 35 programs.
Because we are accredited as one
entity, it made sense to merge as
one, said Mitchell. Faculty members
within the education program teach
both undergraduate and graduate
classes.
Even with the combining of the undergraduate and
graduate programs, the transition has been smooth. It was
a natural fit. Weve still maintained our philosophies that
teaching is an art and a science, she said. Siena Heights,
then St. Joseph College, was started
because there was a need in the
area for teachers. Education is very
important to the University.
While SHU has a storied history
with producing successful education
students, it doesnt mean that they
havent been innovative with their
teaching style.
Located on Adrians beautiful
campus, the Graduate Education
Program offers a slew of face-to-face
and blended classes, which combine
face-to-face instruction with online
components.
For students who want to
fasttrack their education, SHU has
plans to offer a 5-Year Seamless plan.
This plan will allow students within
the program to accelerate their
education, allowing them to receive
their bachelor's and master's degrees
in just five years.
SHU offers a Graduate Education
Program that prepares students for
the education career they want, while
teaching real-world skills for todays
ever changing and demanding job
market.
SHU combined its
undergraduate and
graduate programs for
education into
a single entity,
ofering 35 programs
The 5 year seamless
plan will allow
students to receive
their bachelors
and masters
degrees in just
fve years.
Carrie
Mitchell
Director of
Education
Program
35
Reading
36
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at TECUMSEH
he City of Tecumseh has more than
300 acres of parks and trails. Tecumseh
Park located on North Adrian Street at
Cummins Street is one of the gems of the
Citys numerous parks. Long referred to
as The Pit by locals from its beginnings
as a gravel pit, dont let its nickname fool you, this
is a beautiful park. In 1957, the City of Tecumseh
dedicated the 25.2 acre site as Tecumseh Park.
Today, the park boasts a large green grass area,
picnic shelter, sand volleyball, outdoor restrooms,
basketball, picnic tables and grills, playground, and
a large sandy beach off the swimming area. Its
surprisingly quiet even though its only blocks off
of M-50.
Tecumseh Park is a popular spot year round. In
autumn the park offers some of the most dramatic
colorful foliage of anywhere. In winter, the steep
hills and open area are perfect for sledding and
cross country skiing. During the heat of summer
The Pit beach comes alive with activities and
great swimming.
The spring-fed pond covers a few acres, is
perfect for swimming, and supports a variety of
wild life in the area, not to mention a special myth.
The legend of the Pit Monster lives is the tale of a
huge fish who resides in the shady shallows across
from the beach. When all is quiet the big fish can
be seen jumping in the water of the calm pond.
Boats are not permitted on the water, but shore fishing
around the multi-acre pond is very popular. Anglers of all
ages catch sun fish, blue gill, and even a huge carp. On a
recent visit, one youngster with a big smile on his face reeled
in a good sized bass before releasing the fish. Adult anglers
need a Michigan fishing license, but those 16 and under can
fish without a license.
When the sun is shining, and the thermometer goes up,
the coolest spot in town is The Pit. The sandy beach shore
area is perfect for sun bathers to relax away the afternoon,
and swimmers who stop by for a quick dip. There are no
lifeguards, so its recommended that parents accompany kids
in the water.
Tecumseh Parks & Recreation Department activities this
summer at The Pit include Kite Camp day on July 9, from
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Dino Days Camp on July 31 and Aug. 1.
Register for these events at Tecumseh Parks & Recreation
Department or call 517.423.5602 for details on camp fees.
Tecumseh Park is a popular spot for family reunions and
group picnics. The large pavilion with tables and grill is close
to the beach and the playground area. Contact the Tecumseh
Parks & Recreation Department for details and to make
reservations for the picnic shelter pavilion.
Experience the best of summer, with the warm breezes
under the shade of a tree or a refreshing dip in the water
right in your own backyard. n
By REBECCA PEACH
hello
summer
S
A
Y
to
Kite Camp
Day
JULY 9
1-3PM
Dino Days
Camp
JULY 31
AUGUST 1

For more information
on City of Tecumseh
Parks and Recreation
opportunities visit:
www.mytecumseh.org,
then click on Parks &
Recreation.
38
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fter a long, cold winter it is a
good feeling to walk under
a warm, sunny sky and fnd
treasure. Tecumseh and Clinton
both have many summer treasures
waiting to be found at their local
farmers markets. Fresh vegetables
and fruits, delicious baked goods
and artisan craft items ofer
many choices for the summer
shopper.
Te hunt begins every
Friday afternoon from 3 p.m.
to 7 p.m. through Oct. 17
in downtown Clinton at the
Clinton Farmers Market.
Coordinator Ty Smith has
created a venue right next
to the fre station for local
farmers to share their seasonal
produce. Tings are going
great and the community is
being extremely supportive,
said Smith.We have had a
steady stream of new vendors
since opening May 9, and I
couldnt be happier with the
start.
In addition to farm
produce, there are homemade
pies, gluten free baked
goods, locally made granola,
a variety of baked goods,
and farm fresh eggs. Te
Clinton Farmers Market is
also working closely with
the Clinton Arts Center to
provide classes and activities
while the market is in full
swing.
By Mary Kay McPartlin
ADRIAN FARMERS MARKET
Saturdays 9am-1pm. Farmers Market Pavilion
Toledo Street Parking Lot, Downtown Adrian

Blissfield Farmers Market
Tuesdays 11am - 5pm Fruits. Parking Lot behind
Frosty Boy, 325 W. Adrian St. (US-223)

Clinton Farmers Market
Fridays 3-7pm - 114 Jackson St., North of Clinton Fire
Department. 517.456.7494, clinton-farmers-market.org

Madison Township Farmers Market
Saturdays 8am-Noon. Kohls Parking Lot Corner
US-223 and Treat Hwy., Adrian

Manchester Farmers Market
Thursdays 4-8pm. Corner of M52 & Main St.,
Manchester. www.manchestermi.org or 734.428.7872

Tecumseh Farmers Market
Saturdays 9am-1pm. Downtown Tecumseh
313.673.4207

Walker Tavern Farmers Market
in the Irish Hills
Sundays 10am - 2pm. Corner US-12 & M-50
517.467.7663 or 517.467.7793
On Friday, July 4, the Clinton
Farmers Market will host a
country dance and corn roast.
Te annual Clinton Fall Festival
ofers special Saturday hours for
the market.
Special activities scheduled at
the market include Art at the
Mart during the frst Friday
of the month, where children
will design tiles to hang in the
Clinton Art Center when it
opens. Music is featured the
second Friday of the month,
while the third week is focused
on community awareness
and promoting local Clinton
businesses. Each month closes
out by supporting Clinton non-
profts on the fourth Friday
of the month. We now have
a meeting place on Friday
evenings where you can meet
your neighbors and support our
community at the same time,
Smith said. Te community has
responded enthusiastically to me
asking for their support of the
Market and our local farmers.
Theres no better way
to strengthen your local community
than to shop and
eat locally
hopscotch

40
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41
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
the Tecumseh Farmers Market is open for
business. Vendors are back downtown,
so making a stop at the market is quick
and easy. Te market opened in May and
continues weekly until mid-October.
Tere has been a good response from
both vendors and shoppers, according to
market manager Joan Reed. It has been a
real positive experience for everybody, she
said. Te vendors are doing very well.
Reeds goal is for the Tecumseh
Farmers Market to be a viable part of
the community. Relocating the market
downtown was key to its success. As
trafc goes by, people can see the market,
said Reed.
Downtown businesses, shoppers, and
vendors are glad to be back in the heart
of downtown. Its a win-win situation,
Reed said.
Although there is some spring produce
available to shoppers, more choices will
be available the middle of July. Every
week you have a variety of produce and
something new is at the market, Reed
said.
To help create a fun atmosphere for
the entire family, Reed plans to have
special activities scheduled. Te frst one
is Find the banana. Geared for children,
the goal is to spot something that cant
be purchased at the market. Everything
at the farmers market has to be made or
grown by the vendor and the vendor must
be from Michigan, said Reed. Because
bananas are a tropical fruit, no one in
Tecumseh grows them, thus a banana
stands out. Once the banana is found,
children will turn it in for a prize. Teres
no better way to strengthen your local
community than to shop and eat locally,
Reed said. By visiting your local farmers
market, you support our local farmers
as well as businesses and community
members. Also, you support yourself by
providing healthy and fresh food for you
and your family. n
Clinton Farmers Market: www.Clinton-
Farmers-Market.org, facebook or
517.456.7494. Tecumseh Farmers Market:
will have a facebook page or 313.673.4207.
FARM FRESH CONTINUED...
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Interested Artists Contact
Jan Jones | 517.902.2211
Tecumseh United Methodist
on Bishop Reed Drive is seeking
artists & crafters for fall show.
5x8 space, table & chair Just $10
ARTS &
CRAFTS
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Live & Silent Auctions, Bands, Food,
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Saturday 5-9pm
September 13
Hantz Golf Club
Tecumseh
42
43
ART TRAIL TECUMSEH
ANYTIME nArt Trail Tecumseh is a free outdoor
sculpture exhibit, waiting for you to explore, on your own
time, at your own pace. The sculptures will be on display
in Tecumseh throughout the year with new sculptures
installed in the each spring. See something you cant
live without? The art is for sale and you can find out
more details by contacting Ken Thompson, through the
Midwest Sculpture Initiative (MSI) at at 517.486.4591.
Art Trail Tecumseh is a Downtown Development Authority
project made possible with funding through the Sage
Foundation, Michigan Council for the Arts and the
National Endowment for the Arts.
TECUMSEHS
FARMERS MARKET
THROUGH OCTOBER 11 nJoin us
Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on the sidewalks
of downtown Tecumseh. Fresh produce, flowers,
baked goods, meat, eggs and more!
experience
TECUMSEH
ARTIST SPACE FOR RENT
SUMMER nThe Tecumseh Carnegie Preservation League is
in the process of developing artist studio spaces in the former
Tecumseh Carnegie Library building. This project is part of a
long-term effort by a group of volunteers dedicated to saving and
reusing this local historic landmark. Renovation work is expected
to begin early summer. Seven artist studio spaces with an average
size of 125 sq. ft. have been offered for lease. Five spaces have
been spoken for by local artists who are excited to begin creating
artwork in the studios. Two more studio spaces are still available
for artists, ranging from $120-160/month with utilities. If you are
interested in leasing one of the spaces please contact Paula Holtz
at pholtz@tecumseh.mi.us or 517.424.6003.
BLACK BOX SERIES
4TH THURSDAY OF JUNE, JULY AND
AUGUST nSummer entertainment sizzles
at the TCA on the 4th Thursday of June, July and
August, 7 p.m. Concert series featuring music from
regional artists. Gather with friends and enjoy the
best of Michigan music. Choose wine or your fav
brew & light refreshments. Lobby lounge opens at
6 p.m., shows start at 7 p.m. Come in any time!
$10/per show or $25 for all 3 shows.
Call 517.423.6617.
TECUMSEH
MUSIC FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 13 nTecumseh
Music Festival, a benefit for Community
Arts of Tecumseh will take place at the
Hantz Golf Club on Milwaukee Road,
featuring live music, food, beer and
wine, cash bar, live & silent auctions.
5-9 p.m. Tickets $35. Contact
Community Arts of
Tecumseh for more information.
info@tecumseharts.org or
call 517.423.0000.
SKATEBOARDING COMPETITION
JUNE 28 n10 a.m. Kickflip the summer off with a skateboarding competition Tecumseh Parks and
Recreation style. Our summer edition and second skateboarding competition happens in a jam session
format. Jam sessions will have two age brackets for 11 16 year olds and 17 and up. This competition
allows for a chance to display your skateboarding skills at the Satterthwaite Park. Awards will be handed
out to the top three skaters in each age bracket. So grab your board and get ready to represent your
style. Free (donations accepted) Ages: 11-16 bracket/17 and up bracket. Call 517.423.5602.
mytecumseh.org
44
Please call ahead
before attending
events for any
schedule changes
I N A N D A R O U N D T O W N
hap
pen
ings
O N G O I N G
YEAR ROUND Art Trail Tecumseh Free outdoor sculpture exhibit
in Downtown Tecumseh. 16 sculptures are on display for you to visit
on your self-guided tour. Maps are available. www.downtowntecumseh.
com or 517.424.6003
SATURDAY NIGHTS Sunsets on the Deck 7-10pm. Live
entertainment. Fresh farm to fork menu. Meckleys, Somerset Center,
517.688.3455 or www.flavorfruitfarm.com
FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Adrian First Fridays Summer 5pm-
8pm-ish. Join downtown Adrian on the First Friday of each month as
downtown businesses host art, music, food and fun. www.adriancity.
com
J U N E
JUNE 26 Rootstand 7pm. TCA Summer Black Box Series. Ignites
sounds of reggae, bluegrass and roots rock. Tecumseh Center for the
Arts, 515.423.6617 or www.thetca.org
JUNE 27 Street Dance/Movie 7pm. Bring chairs, walk or dance
the streets, live regional musicians, open-air picnic, shopping.
BIG SCREEN movie at dusk in front of the Village Hall. www.
villageofbrooklyn.com
JUNE 28 Lenawee Humane Society Bull Run 10am $20 Reg.
Tecumseh Harley. Celebrate pitbulls & bikers! Poker run. After party
Artesian Wells. Wristband gets 15% of your purchase back to LHS!
Prizes, raffles, games, food, music! Motorcycles, cars & pets welcome.
JUNE 28 Skateboarding Competition 10am. Jam session
will have two age groups; 11-16 and 17 & up. Satterthwaite Park.
Tecumseh Parks & Recreation: 517.423.5602
JUNE 28 Fairy Garden- Family Class Series 10:30am. Cost: $30
per family/ $27 per family for Friends of HLG. Registration Hidden Lake
Gardens, Tipton, 517.431.2060 or www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
JUNE 28 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery 5-8pm. The Mojo
Doyle Band. www.cherrycreekwine.com or 517.592.4663
J U L Y
FIRST WEEKEND IN JULY Devils Lake SummerFest Pontoon
Boat Cruise, Sandbar Volleyball Tournament & Floating Corn Hole!
Trophies, Cash Prizes, & Fun! Devils Lake & Round Lake Mens Club
517.673.4699
JULY 3 Adrian City Band Concert - In Honor of Our Troops.
7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings, free to the public. www.
adriancity.com
JULY 4 4th of July Parade 10am. 9:30 AM at Middle School
Downtown Brooklyn. www.villageofbrooklyn.com
JULY 4 Brooklyn 4th of July Fireworks Dusk. Columbia Middle
School Football Field. Entertainment before the show begins at the
field at 6 pm with live music and food. www.villageofbrooklyn.com
JULY 4 July Adrian First Fridays- Star Spangled Summer 5pm-
8pm-ish. Join downtown Adrian on the First Friday of each month as
downtown businesses host art, music, food and fun. www.adriancity.
com
JULY 5 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery 5-8pm. The Phoenix
Theory. www.cherrycreekwine.com or 517.592.4663
JULY 9 Kite Camp 1 - 3pm. 5- 12 years old. Customize and
decorate a kite and learn proper ways of flying. Register Tecumseh
Parks & Recreation 517.423.5602
JULY 9 The Unforgettagles: Music of the 40s and 50s
2-3pm. Enjoy many oldies but goodies in lively three-part harmony.
Fieldstone at Tecumseh Place. Tecumseh District Library
517.423.2238 or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
JULY 9 Automobile Day at Walker Tavern 1-3pm. Learn about
automobile travel, build your own automobile, elementary-aged
children & adult partners. Pre-Registration Required. Walker Tavern
Historic Complex 517.467.4401 or 517.241.0731
JULY 9-12 31st Annual River Raisin Festival - Blissfield
Entertainment, Childrens Activities, Carnival, Miss River Raisin
Pageant. Parade, Car & Bike Show, Truck Pulls, Fireworks on 2 nights -
and More! Bachmayer & Ellis Parks, Blissfield 517.486.2400
JULY 10 Clinton Library Summer Craft time 2pm. Craft and/or
experiment. Clinton Township Public Library 517.456.4141
JULY 10 Horse Racing with Marlyn 2-3pm. First player to the
finish line wins a prize. Tecumseh District Library 517.423.2238 or
charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
JULY 10 Adrian City Band Concert- In The Interest Of
7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings, free to the public. www.
adriancity.com
JULY 10 The Orphan Train in Michigan 7-8pm.
Learn about the first Orphan Train riders with research
historians Al and David Eicher. Tecumseh District Library
517.423.2238 or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
JULY 11 Music on the Patio 7-10 pm. Unwind on the
patio and enjoy live Motown, rhythm+blues, and many of
your favorites with the All Directions Band! Evans Street
Station, 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com
JULY 11 Arts in the Park 7 pm. Bring, a chair, a
blanket, food and/or drink and enjoy everything from
classical to rock n roll in a beautiful, park setting. Swains
Memorial Park, Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.com
JULY 12 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery 5-8pm.
The Ben Daniels Band. www.cherrycreekwine.com or
517.592.4663
JULY 12 Show Car Nationals Boy Scouts Pancake
Breakfast: 7am. 100+ classic cars. Breakfast, Classic Cars,
Arts & Crafts, Kids Games, Oh, These Irish Hills History,
Local Authors & Vendors! Michigan International Speedway
517.467.4388
JULY 12 Succulents in Containers- Indoors and
Out! 1-2:30pm. Cost: $15 per person/ $12 per person for
Friends of HLG. Registration Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton,
517.431.2060 or www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
JULY 16 Book Bingo 1-2pm. Play bingo to win books
and other prizes.Tecumseh District Library 517.423.2238
or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
JULY 17 Classic Car & Bike Show 6-8 pm. Take a
ride down memory lane as classic cars and motorcycles
are showcased in Downtown Tecumseh. www.
downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6003
JULY 17 Music in the Park 6-8 pm. Relax with your
friends and neighbors as you enjoy great music by The
Kerfuffles from in Adams Park. www.downtowntecumseh.
com or 517.423.5602.
JULY 17 61st Annual Manchester Chicken Broil
4-8pm. Entertainment and Classic Car Show and Dinner:
Half a Char-broiled Chicken, Homemade Cole Slaw,
Radish, Chips, Roll & Butter and a drink. 734.320.2620 or
manchesterchickenbroil.org
JULY 17 Adrian City Band Concert - Intense Music
7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings, free to the
public. www.adriancity.com

JULY 17 Clinton Library Summer Craft time 2pm.
Craft and/or experiment. Clinton Township Public Library
517.456.4141
JULY 17 Historical Church Tour 6:45-8:15pm. First
Presbyterian Church, 211 W. Chicago Blvd. & Church of
Christ, 312 W. Chicago Blvd, Tecumseh District Library
517.423.2238 or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
JULY 17-18 Pirate Camp 1 - 3pm. Boys and girls
5-12. Pirate games, snacks, and crafts at the AJ Smith
Recreation Center. Register Tecumseh Parks & Recreation
517.423.5602
JULY 18 Arts in the Park 7 pm. Bring, a chair, a
blanket, food and/or drink and enjoy everything from
classical to rock n roll in a park setting. Swains Memorial
Park, Village of Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.com
JULY 18 & 19 Downtown Tecumsehs Annual
Sidewalk Sales 9am - 5pm each day. Sales and great
bargains! Some stores offering extended hours.
www.downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6003
JULY 18 & 19 Pig Jig Pig Roast & Street Dance
Fri 4 pm - til gone. Sat noon-midnight. Delicious
pork sandwich la carte meal. Beer Tent - Fri 4pm -
midnight - Sat noon - midnight. Music & dancing Fri TBA
- Sat Live music and dancing - 2pm - 11:30pm. www.
downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6003
JULY 18-20 Community Sidewalk Sale10 am 6pm.
Local retailers offer sales for Faster Horses concert fans.
Village of Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.com
JULY 18-27 Catch Me If You Can! Stylish and fun show
is based on the real life story of Frank Abagnale, Jr. High-
energy and overflowing with song and dance numbers
youll love! Croswelll Opera House, Adrian 517.264.SHOW
(7469)
JULY 19 Tecumseh Fire Department Pancake
Breakfast 7am - 10am. (By donations) Open House
- 8am - 1pm. Waterball Tournament and Kids Games at
noon. 101 E. Russell Rd.
BLISSFUL
LIVING
BLISSFUL
LIVING
Give the gift of the
and keep your loved
ones in the know...
45
JULY 19 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery
5-8pm. The Jill Jack Band. www.cherrycreekwine.com
or 517.592.4663
JULY 19 11th Annual Pet Parade10am. Dress
your favorite pet in themed African Safari attire
and join us for this family friendly parade at
www.downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6003
JULY 19 Preschool Class: Letter G...
Garbage! 10am. Cost: $8 per preschooler/ $6 per
preschooler for Friends of HLG. Registration Hidden
Lake Gardens, Tipton, 517.431.2060 or www.
hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
JULY 20-26 175th Lenawee County Fair
Family fun...including Fair Food, Carnival Rides, 4-H
Animals & Displays, Live Entertainment, Music &
Midway Fun! 517.263.3007 or www.lenfair.com
JULY 23 Seasoned Chefs Dinner 6pm. Seven of
Michigans top chefs are coming together featuring
an all-star, seven-course menu. Evans Street Station,
517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com
JULY 24 Stella! 7pm. TCA Summer Black Box
Series. Eclectic old-soul country roots. Tecumseh
Center for the Arts, 515.423.6617 or www.thetca.
org
JULY 24 Adrian City Band Concert- Interesting
Stuff. 7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings,
free to the public. www.adriancity.com
JULY 24 Sangria Patio Party 6-8pm. Eagle Eye
Imports and Tecumsehs J. Trees Cellars. $30 covers
Sangria, Appetizers, Tax and Gratuity. Evans Street
Station, 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.
com
JULY 24 Clinton Library Summer Craft time
2pm. Craft and/or experiment. Clinton Township
Public Library 517.456.4141
JULY 25 Street Dance/Movie 7pm. Bring chairs,
walk or dance the streets, live regional musicians,
open-air picnic, shopping. BIG SCREEN movie at dusk
in front of the Village Hall. www.villageofbrooklyn.
com
JULY 25 & 26 Downtown Tecumsehs
4th Annual Plein Air Paint Out and Quick
Draw! Artists paint and draw Tecumsehs historic
landmarks, architecture, rivers and streams.
Awards & art sale. www.downtowntecumseh.com or
517.301.4019
JULY 26 Pet Rock Friends and Family- Family
Class Series 10am. Cost: $14 per family/ $12
per family for Friends of HLG. Registration Hidden
Lake Gardens, Tipton, 517.431.2060 or www.
hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu
JULY 26 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery
5-8pm. The Leisure Machine. www.cherrycreekwine.
com or 517.592.4663
JULY 30 Frozen Camp 1-3pm. Boys and girls
5-12. Activities centered around the movie Frozen!
AJ Smith Recreation Center. Register Tecumseh Parks
& Recreation 517.423.5602
JULY 31 Clinton Library Summer Craft time
2pm. Craft and/or experiment. Clinton Township
Public Library 517.456.4141
JULY 31 Adrian City Band Concert- Investing in
Music.7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings,
free to the public. www.adriancity.com
A U G U S T
FIRST WEEKEND IN AUGUST Worlds Longest
Yard Sale on US-127 (127 Corridor Sale)
Includes Addison/Hudson, Michigan! 690 Miles,
Addison, MI to Gadsden, AL! www.127sale.com
AUGUST 1 Arts in the Park 7 pm. Bring a chair,
blanket, food, drink and enjoy everything from
classical to rock n roll in a park setting. Swains
Memorial Park, Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.com
AUGUST 2 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery
5-8pm. Bigfoot Bob & the Toe Tappers. www.
cherrycreekwine.com or 517.592.4663
AUGUST 2 Dog Daze Dog Show Camp with
your canine! Family dog show with many categories
to win. Agility course and Paw Printing available.
Indiancreekcamping.com or 517.423.5659
Month
46
AUGUST 7 Adrian City Band Concert - In Conclusion.
7:30pm. Trestle Park on Thursday evenings, free to the
public. www.adriancity.com
AUGUST 7 Clinton Library Summer Craft time 2pm.
Craft and/or experiment. Clinton Township Public Library
517.456.4141
AUGUST 8 Arts in the Park 7 pm. Bring a chair, a
blanket, food, drink. Enjoy everything from classical to
rock n roll in a beautiful, park setting. Swains Memorial
Park, Village of Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.com
AUGUST 8 Music on the Patio 7-10 pm. Unwind on
the patio and enjoy live Motown, rhythm+blues, and
many of your favorites with the All Directions Band! Evans
Street Station, 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.
com
AUGUST 9 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery
5-8pm. Kung Fu Diesel. www.cherrycreekwine.com or
517.592.4663
AUGUST 9 Antique Appraisals and Lost Arts Event
9am-4pm. Roger Ponn Associated Appraisers give verbal
appraisals. Lost Arts demonstrations: Spinners, Weavers,
Knitters, Painters, and More! William G. Thompson House
Museum & Gardens, Hudson 517.448.8125
AUGUST 9-10 The Wine Days of Summer - Picnic
Trail Self-driving tour, Pioneer Wine Trail. Wines, paired
with a wonderful picnic-related food by local chefs
or restaurants. Recipe cards. Tickets $30 thru 8/7.
517.592.4663, 517.531.3080 or www.pioneerwinetrail.
com
AUGUST 11-16 Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival
Dexter, Michigan www.dextermi.gov/arts
AUGUST 12 Farm-to-Glass Cocktail Class
7:30pm. Learn how to incorporate local produce herbs,
cucumbers, berries, tomatoes into cocktails. register
online www.tammystastings.com/shop Evans Street
Station, 517.424.5555
AUGUST 12 Getting Excited About Science!
2:30pm. Steve Belliveau will use his skills as a magician to
present a show that captivates both children and adults!
Clinton Township Public Library 517.456.4141

AUGUST 12 Stiltwalking Across Michigan
7-8pm. First Baptist Church. Despite having mild Cerebral
Palsy, Neil Sauter became one of the worlds best
stiltwalkers. Tecumseh District Library 517.423.2238 or
charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
AUGUST 13 Book Bingo 1-2pm. Play bingo to win
books and other prizes. Tecumseh District Library
517.423.2238 or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
AUGUST 13 Back to School Day at Walker Tavern
Grammar, arithmetic, rolling hoops, sack races & crack
the whip! elementary-aged children & adult partners.
Pre-Registration Walker Tavern Historic Complex
517.467.4401 or 517.241.0731
AUGUST 15 Arts in the Park 7 pm. Friday nights.
Bring a chair, blanket, food, drink and enjoy everything
from classical to rock n roll in a park setting. Swains
Memorial Park, Village of Brooklyn www.villageofbrooklyn.
com
AUGUST 15-24 Sweet Charity Huge song & dance
numbers include, If My Friends Could See Me Now, Big
Spender, Im a Brass Band, and more! Croswell Opera
House, Adrian 517.264.SHOW (7469) or www.croswell.
org
AUGUST 16 Live Music at Cherry Creek Winery
5-8pm. Wynwood. www.cherrycreekwine.com or
517.592.4663
AUGUST 20 Gift Certificate Bingo 1-2pm. Win books
and generous gift certificates. Cambrian Assisted Living,
Tecumseh. Tecumseh District Library 517.423.2238 or
charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org
AUGUST 21 Classic Car & Bike Show 6-8 pm.
Take a ride down memory lane as classic cars and
motorcycles are showcased in Downtown Tecumseh. www.
downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6555
AUGUST 21 Music in the Park 6-8pm. Relax with your
friends and neighbors as you enjoy great music by Bull
Halsey in Adams Park. www.downtowntecumseh.com or
517.423.5602
AUGUST 22 Street Dance/Movie 7pm. Bring chairs,
walk or dance the streets, live regional musicians, open-
air picnic, shopping. Movie at dusk, Village Hall. www.
villageofbrooklyn.com
Fall Homefront Published
September 22
Send us your events happening September
22 - December 5 in 25 words or less. Include contact
information and we will include them free of charge,
space permitting. Send to hollie@tecumsehherald.
com or mail to P.O. Box 218, Tecumseh MI 49286.
AUGUST 23 Live Music at Cherry Creek
Winery
5-8pm. Billy Lewis & the Soulbacks. www.
cherrycreekwine.com or 517.592.4663
AUGUST 28 The Appleseed Collective 7pm.
TCA Summer Black Box Series. Americana Folk
bluegrass & a pinch of ragtime beat. Tecumseh
Center for the Arts, 515.423.6617 or www.thetca.
org
AUGUST 31 Live Music at Cherry Creek
Winery
5-8pm. The Leisure Machine (Sunday). www.
cherrycreekwine.com or 517.592.4663
S E P T E M B E R
FIRST WEEKEND IN SEPTEMBER Bean Creek
Heritage Festival Games, food and family
activities, chicken dinner, community breakfast,
hometown parade, fun run & craft show! Hudson
517.448.8983
SEPTEMBER 4 River Raisin Canoe Adventure
6-8pm. Tecumseh Paddle Company. Show your
Library card, you and a guest will go on a downriver
adventure for $5 ea. Tecumseh District Library
517.423.2238 or charpst@tecumsehlibrary.org

SEPTEMBER 5-7 Adventure Awaits! Camping,
Survival Training, High Ropes Course, Rock Climbing
& Zip Line, Leap Of Faith & Fire Build Challenge,
Geocache. TTQ Challenge Camp 517.423.5659 or
indiancreekcamping.com
SEPTEMBER 6 Arts and Crafts Show 9am
- 4pm. Tecumseh United Methodist Church, 605
Bishop Reed Dr. 517.423.2523
SEPTEMBER 12 Music on the Patio 7-10pm.
Unwind on the patio and enjoy live Motown,
rhythm+blues, and many of your favorites with
the All Directions Band! Evans Street Station,
517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com
SEPTEMBER 13 Tecumseh Music Festival
5-9pm. $35. Music Festival, a benefit for Community
Arts of Tecumseh featuring live music, food, beer
and wine, cash bar, live & silent auctions. Hantz
Golf Club, Times and ticket information TBA. www.
tecumseharts.org or 517.423.0000
SEPTEMBER 13 Fall Walk and Food Event
10am-3pm. Guided walk on Walker Taverns
trails. Learn about edible plants, cooking demo.
Walker Tavern Historic Complex 517.467.4401 or
517.241.0731
SEPTEMBER 13 Live Music at Cherry
Creek Winery 5-8pm. Harvest Party & Grape
Stomp - Wynwood. www.cherrycreekwine.com or
517.592.4663
SEPTEMBER 18 Classic Car & Bike Show
6-8 pm. Take a ride down memory lane as classic
cars and motorcycles are showcased in Downtown
Tecumseh. www.downtowntecumseh.com or
517.424.6555
SEPTEMBER 18 Music in the Park 6-8 pm.
Relax with your friends and neighbors as you enjoy
great music by Laith Al-Saadi in Adams Park.
www.downtowntecumseh.com or 517.423.5602
SEPTEMBER 19 Lenawee United Way Day of
Action Morning Breakfast (open to the public, all
invited) is followed by volunteer projects throughout
the community. www.lenaweeunitedway.org
SEPTEMBER 19-20 Art-A-Licious 8th annual
Art-A-Licious Festival will bring art, entertainment
and delicious food to the streets of downtown
Adrian. www.artalicious.org
SEPTEMBER 25 Downtown Divas at Dusk
Grab your BFF and visit downtown merchants
for special prices and diva pampering. www.
downtowntecumseh.com or 517.424.6003
6
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Original Gravity Brewery
Concerts and Movies in Wilson Park
Every Thursday 6pm
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one of the
ne! Two! Three strikes youre
out in the old ball game. Or so
the song that was penned in 1908 goes. That
was in the heyday of what some consider the
halcyon days of the game when it was merely
a gentlemans pastime. The operative phrase,
the old ball game, is what vintage base ball
players are keeping alive. Vintage base ball
players are, excuse the pun, a throwback.
They play with simple equipment: a ball and a
bat. In the intervening years between now and
when the rules were somewhat agreed upon, it
has become the national pastime, some would
say to its detriment. Among those who hew to
original incarnation of the game are vintage base
ball players. The space between base and ball is
intentional.
When Abner Doubleday (b. 1819-d. 1893),
mythically, codified the pastime of base ball (two
words, as it was known then); it was a simple
game. Doubleday laid no claim to the distinction
as the founding father himself. Baseball has
become known as a single word in modern times.
In the hazy past, it was not an industry, as it has
become, or a religion, as some would describe it
in todays terms. It did not have a pantheon of
heroes and was not studied to the nth degree for
corollaries to the stock market or insights into
the American psyche. There were no algorithms
to predict multimillion-dollar draft picks success.
It was merely a game.
The game, in varying forms, has been played
in England for centuries, but todays fans would
recognize the essential rules that often varied
slightly from village to village. The basic structure
was to defend the target (catcher) from the
pitcher, with a bat. No gloves, no spikes, no
helmets.
Remarkably, in recorded history, the
consistency of the rule that the batter had only
three chances to successfully repel the ball from
the target and earn a point by rounding the
bases was pretty much universal.
In recent years, there has been a movement,
among a subculture of purists, to go back to
the roots of the game. The subculture is known
as vintage base ball. One of its most fervent
local adherents is Tecumsehs Jeff Lee, who is a
member of the Walker Wheels. The Walker Wheels
home field is at Walker Tavern at the intersection
of two prehistoric trails (seriously): US 12 and
M-50. Walker Tavern is a state and national
historic site. It welcomed stagecoach travelers
since about 1832 and has been the home field
for base ball games for more than a century.
There is no admission fee and spectators are not
only welcome, they are encouraged to come and
cheer for their team.
In the early days of base ball, eighteen men
(sorry, girls, things are rightfully different today)
would choose sides of nine players each and try
to find a level playing field, often the less used
corner of a cow pasture.
Equipment was rudimentary: a ball and a bat.
Thats it. Nine guys on one side, nine guys on
the other. No trash talk. A gentlemans pastime.
Old
The
Story by DEANE ERTS
49
THE WALKER WHEELS - JEFF LEE - THIRD FROM LEFT
Photo by JAMIE TERWILLIGER
Pitching was underhand, more of a toss. No one hundred-miles-per hour fast balls. It was simply
an opportunity for some athletic display. Hopefully, some ladies among the throng, would choose
a personal favorite. The fans, as we call them today, or the cranks, as the spectators were often
known at the time, would pick their own favorite, for one reason or another, and pay special attention
to him.
The basic principal was that it was a game. You can play it anywhere on level ground. You can
call it stickball in the Bronx. You can call it sandlot in the Midwest. You can call it Little League, junior
varsity, varsity or pony. In its distant past, you didnt: you didnt need a uniform, you didnt need
much equipment. Only requirement: have fun.
Jeff Lee, a Tecumseh general contractor, at 59, is the senior member of the Walker Wheels, which
maintains a top level spot in the state vintage base ball league. The Wheels are part of a loose
league of 37 teams in Michigan from all corners of the state. The local team plays 30 games per
season all over Michigan and a couple of dates in Ontario, where there is also a strong following of
the game. The season culminates in Michigans Greenfield Village for the annual Vintage Base Ball
World Series.
I have always liked history, and I have
always loved baseball, Lee said. I played Little League, and I
played softball until I was 45. Lees softball career was cut short by an Achilles tendon injury. In vintage
base ball, I still hold my own for a guy my age, he said. I like the idea that a bunch of guys can get
together and have fun by recreating history through a game that is interwoven in the American story.
Its competitive, but very friendly. After the game, we all join together, maybe for a barbeque, maybe for
a dinner in one of the players homes. I have met some great people though my participation. In vintage
baseball, your teammates and your opponents are all brothers.
Lee also perpetuates the game through umpiring youth leagues along with refereeing basketball
games during that season. Last season he officiated at 177 hard court contests. I have to admit, now my
main sport is golf, he said.
The Wheels team draws its membership very locally-three from Tecumseh, one from Britton, and
several from Onsted and Adrian, but the team schedules games all around the state, and after every
contest, theres a dinner and a party.
There is technically no tryout process for prospective the Walker Wheels. The lineup is currently pretty
much full, but Lee has offered to field calls for new drafts. His number is 517.442.3646.
Keep in mind that this is not your average baseball or softball league. It is a collection of gentlemen
spending the afternoon in friendly competition, hopefully with an enthusiastic audience.
Pick your team; pick your player, but advisedly, Root, root, root, for the home team, if they dont win
its a shame, cause its one, two, three strikes youre out in the old ball game.
A full schedule of the Wheels games is available at www.mighigan.gov/walkertavern. n
50
THE
OUTDOORSMAN
AND BIRDER
It is said that all artist must take time to fill
the well of inspiration. For Perez that comes from
being outdoors. He grew up close to the land,
loving the outdoors. Always drawn to outdoor
sporting activities such as hunting and fly fishing,
in recent years, Perez has been drawn to birding.
His interest in birding was sparked after
a friend who conducts a local Christmas bird
count asked him to participate. Perez agreed.
Rather than simply join the effort, he dove into
it. The first step was picking up the Peterson
Field Guides Birding by Ear CD. I listened to
that non-stop for about a year. That in itself
was one of the best things I could have done. It
helps so much with bird identifying. I became a
better birder by be being able recognize them by
sound, Perez said.
After many years of fly fishing, where so much
gear is involved in every expedition, Perez said
he valued the simplicity of birding. Birding just
basically takes binoculars, he said.
He has since become involved with the North
American Migration Count and the Great Backyard
Bird Count. In addition, he was instrumental in
starting the Lenawee Birders. Its just about
being connected, said Perez. Connection is
something that a lot of people have kind of lost.
Theyve lost that connection to nature. I grew up
liking to be around nature. Being a fisherman,
I was drawn to learning about bugs, now Im
learning about birds and hearing birds and
being able to identify birds. Its all about finding
patterns, patterns in the way insects hatch and
birds migrate and flowers bloom, all the nuances
happening all over the place, thats what intrigues
me. I just want to be a part of it.
THE CONNECTION
Perezs art speaks to connection simultaneously
in simple and profound ways. He captures each
image in its most simple form. Still, there is a
complexity in the way Perez brings to the surface
the textures and patterns that give each piece an
unexpected depth.
The process of visualizing linocut is different
than painting, said Perez. In painting, you have
different gradations of color and light to dark. In
simplifying the form and finding patterns and turning
the image into a linear pattern, its almost like I have
to put it through a filter and make the image simpler,
but in a sense it is not simpler because I am looking
at patterns and textures.
In addition, he chooses to be less exact with his
cut marks, allowing the cut marks to come through a
bit, which adds another level of texture. Perez said
he prefers to balance it and feels the marks allow
CONNECTION IS
SOMETHING THAT A LOT
OF PEOPLE HAVE KIND OF
LOST. THEYVE LOST THAT
CONNECTION TO NATURE.
his personality to come through in the pieces. What
you leave behind is just as important as what you take
away, he said. I like to leave cut marks as another
element to show that the pieces are not perfect. They
are made by hand and I think that can show a bit of
emotion.
Perezs work has been featured throughout
Lenawee County. Hes been part of such events as
Adrian First Fridays, where artists display artwork
through downtown Adrian, and Tecumsehs Art in the
Park. Hes also shown and demonstrated at Hidden
Lake Gardens as well as at the Sandhill Crane and Art
Festival in Calhoun County, which Perez said is one of
his favorites because it combines his loves of both art
and birding. As a teacher, Perez has been active at
Community Arts of Tecumseh and at Blue Lake Fine
Arts Camp in Twin Lake. Really, the connection of
being outside and a part of nature makes me want to
share that with people, said Perez. n
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PEREZ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22...
51
52
Hop aboard Michigans First Branch Line Railroad and leave your busy world behind. Spend an
enchanting afternoon as the train crosses farms, woods, bridges and Tecumsehs beautiful Red Mill
Pond! Get off the train and browse quaint shops nearby. Its an experience like no other.
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Come
No reservation needed
this SUMMER!
downtown
and hop on!
Check COMPLETE
schedule online
Summer Route
EVERY OTHER SATURDAY
Depart Downtown Tecumseh
Board Corner of E. Chicago & N. Evans
Next to Tecumseh Antiques & More
12:00 2:00
Depart Clinton Station
11:00 1:00 3:00
SELECT SUNDAYS
Depart Tecumseh 2:00
Depart Clinton 1:00 3:00
Tickets: $12, $10, $8, Under 5 Free
FALL
COLOR TOURS
smrs.org Tickets Online:
BUY SUMMER
TICKETS
OR ONLINE
SANTA
TRAINS
BOOK
NOW!
New Clinton Route
October Weekends Fill Fast
November Dates Fill Fast
BOOK EARLY!
COME JOIN!
are invited to
*ALL*
VOLUNTEERS
WEEKENDS
*TRAIN*
r i d e t h e
SUMMER
*
*