DISTRICT COURT

John Everett Emery, 32, Millington, is charged with witness – bribing/intimidating/interferring with a police investigation. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Crystal Marie Emery, 35, Akron, is charged with five counts of police officer – assaulting/resisting/obstructing. Arraignment is scheduled for June 24.

Cody Ian Engler, 37, Mayville, is charged with malicious destruction of personal property – $1,000 or more but less than $20,000; assault with a dangerous weapon (felonious assault). A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Daryl Lee Damm, 24, Caro, is charged with controlled substance – possession/analogues – 2nd or subsequent offense notice. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Bobbie Jo Favazza, 35, Deford, is charged with two counts of assault by strangulation; two counts of child abuse – 3rd degree; child abuse – 3rd degree – committed in the presense of another child. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Dennis Linwood Powell, 22, Mayville, is charged with controlled substance – operating/maintaining laboratory involving methamphetamine; conspiracy to commit controlled substance – operating/maintaining laboratory involving methamphetamine. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Jason James Herman, 40, Fairgrove, is charged with two counts of interfering with electronic communications; two counts of domestic violence. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Timothy Joseph Block, 33, Flint, is charged with five counts of financial transaction device – stealing/retaining without consent. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Alan Dale Humes, Jr., 40, Caro, is charged with assault by strangulation; domestic violence. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Adam Francis Watson, 25, Caro, breaking and entering – a building with intent; larceny in a building. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 29.

Matthew David Favazza, 38, Deford, is charged with two counts of assault by strangulation; six counts of child abuse – 3rd degree; two counts of child abuse – 3rd degree committed in the presence of another child. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

Joel Andrew Lakawskas, 28, Caro, is charged with two counts ofassault a dangerous weapon (felonious assault); weapons – dangerous weapon – carrything with unlawful intent. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 22.

CIRCUIT COURT

Timothy Paul Reynero, 33, Caro, pleaded no contest to controlled substance – delivery/manufature marijuana – Habitual offender – 2nd sentence date to be set.

Andrew David Lalko, 25, Ypsilanti, pleaded guilty to election law – voting in wrong precinct. Sentence date to be set.

Lawuana Renea Clark, 48, Flint, was sentenced to 280 days with one day credit for identity theft; three counts of 280 days with one day credit and 60 months probation for financial transaction device – stealing/retaining without consent. Clark was ordered to pay $402 in costs and fines, $3,757.48 in restitution and $1,000 in attorney fees.

Jack Grachter, 63, Sheridan, pleaded guilty to controlled substance – delivery/manufacture marijuana. Sentence date to be set.

DISTRICT COURT

Thomas John Howard, 25, C/O Michigan Depart-ment of Correc-tions, is charged with escape – prison. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 29. In a separate file, Howard is charged with motor vehicle – unlawful driving away. A preliminary examination is scheduled for June 29.

Kevin Lee Bossert, Cass City, is charged with controlled substance – possession (cocaine, heroin or other narcotic) less than 25 grams – 2nd or subsequent offence notice. A preliminary examination is scheduled for July 6.

Michael Anthony Eckhardt, 52, Cass City, is charged with controlled substance – delivery/manufacture (schedules 1, 2 and 3 except marijuana); controlled substance – possession/analogues. A Preliminary examination is scheduled for July 20.

Jason Lewis Schriber, 27, Vassar, is charged with three counts of police officer – assaulting/resisting/ obstructing; operating while intoxicated – 2nd offense; failure to stop at scene of property damage accident (attended vehicle). A preliminary examination is scheduled for July 20.

Paul Burdette McConnell, 26, Vassar, is charged with assault with two counts of a dangerous weapon (felonious assault). A preliminary examination is scheduled for July 13.

CIRCUIT COURT

Gjeto Lvvljash Gojcevic, 51, Port Sanilac, pleaded no contest to 2 counts of attempted check non-sufficient funds. Sentence date to be set. In a separate file, Gojcevic pleaded no contest to check – non-sufficient funds $500 or more. Sentence date to be set.

Fred Lee Bissell, 57, Vassar, was sentenced to 365 days with 3 days credit and 36 months probation for retail fraud – first degree – second or subsequent offense notice. Bissell was ordered to pay $1,230 in costs and fines.

Stephen Michael Webster, 22, Frankenmuth, pleaded guilty to controlled substance – possession of marijuana – 2nd or subsequent offense notice. Sentence date to be set.

Daniel Thomas Burke, 32, Frankenmuth, was sentenced to 210 days with 2 days credit and 60 months probation for operating while intoxicated – 3rd offense; 60 months probation for assault with a dangerous weapon (felonious assault). Burke was ordered to pay $1,366 in costs and fines and $2,400 in oversight fees

By Andrea McBride
Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of The Child Advocacy Center of Tuscola County Facebook page.
A superhero prepares for the 5K Superhero Run on Friday, June 13 to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of Tuscola County CACTC). The organization’s next event is the third annual Tee Fore Kids tournament on Friday, Sept. 25 at the Vassar Golf & Country Club.

CARO — Although Friday, June 12 was a washout weather-wise, community members brought some sunshine of their own to events benefiting the Child Advocacy Center of Tuscola County (CACTC).

The Family Fun Day at Caro McDonald’s switched its focus to awareness, while the evening Superhero 5K raised more than $5,000 by its 152 runners.

The CACTC is a nonprofit organization that provides a safe and friendly place for children who have been sexually or physically abused to make difficult but truthful disclosures.

Activities such as a bounce house and dunk tank for Family Fun Day had to be canceled, but eventgoers stayed busy with face painting, arts and crafts, a bake sale and a Ronald McDonald magic show.

A popular activity was the creation of child ID kits with assistance from Trooper Mark Swales and his wife. Children talked in microphones and discussed information such as their best friends and hobbies. The information was then put on a CD and given to the child and their family. That way, if anything were to happen to the child, parents have their background information and sound of their child’s voice on hand.

Kids signed pledges as a way to ensure their understanding of their right to be safe from harm and to always tell. They also colored a picture of a flower and wrote names of people they trust in each flower petal, which encourages them to talk to someone they trust if a problem arises.

Amber Spencer, CACTC executive director and forensic interviewer, said holding informational events is important.

“It just empowers children,” Spencer said. “It lets them know that they have the right and that they are strong individuals and their voice counts.”

Most Superhero 5K runners pre-registered for the event, but 21 showed up that day to participate. Spencer said she is grateful for the tremendous turnout in spite of gray skies.

“Every kid needs a hero, but every abused child needs a superhero, and we had 152 of those people, not including our volunteers,” Spencer said.

Gold sponsors for the event were Mark and Kathy Reene, Great Start Collaborative Tuscola County, Pat Curtis and Caro Community Hospital. Millennium Steering was a silver sponsor. Bronze sponsors included Hills and Dales, Jennifer and Chris Shores and Wally and Kathy Kent. Wingerts and Miller Race Management also donated to the event.

CACTC’s next fundraising event is the third annual Tee Fore Kids tournament on Sept. 25 at the Vassar Golf & Country Club.

The event is in need of teams, sponsors and silent auction items.

For more information, call 810-610-8071 or email tuscolacac@aol.com.

BY SETH STAPLETON 

Tribune Sports Writer 

SANDUSKY — The majority of the second-annual Thumb Sportswriters Association Boys All-Star Basketball Game was controlled by the East All-Stars.

But in the final minute, the West seized control, rallying for a dramatic 76-73 win in front of a full house at Sandusky High School Friday night.

“It was a great atmosphere tonight,” said an excited West coach Chuck Fabbro, of Vassar. “It was awesome. It’s cool to see this gym filled up because this is such a neat gym.”

To get the victory, Fabbro’s team had to overcome a six-point deficit with 1:25 to go in the fourth. Following a timeout, the West slapped on a tough full-court press that sparked the comeback.

Trailing 71-65, the West’s Curtis Garza, of North Branch, converted a steal into two points. Millington’s Austin LeVan followed that with a steal and bucket to cut the lead to 71-69.

LeVan then hit a three-pointer to trim the lead to 73-72 with under a minute to go. Two LeVan free throws with 20 seconds remaining gave the West a 74-73 advantage.

“We were down four or five with like a minute left and I just feel like I have a killer instinct in me, so I felt like I had to take over,” said LeVan, who was named the game’s MVP.

“LeVan’s such a player, I kept waiting — I figured he was going to do something,” Fabbro said. “Then he kind of had a little flurry there and got us back into it.”

A very exciting fourth was concluded when an East three in the corner, which could have sent the game into overtime, rattled in and out.

“At the end, I was talking to my assistant coach and was like, ‘I want to win this, let’s go,’” Fabbro said. “Last year the East won it, so we wanted to be the first team from the West to win it. That’s what we were pushing for.”

Caro’s Bailey Krueger spots up for three in the All-Thumb All-Star game. Krueger finished the game with 10 points, and six rebounds in the West All-Star’s 76-73 victory. (photo by: www.kg-photo.com)

Despite being quiet for most of the game, LeVan saved his best for last. He was named the game’s MVP after scoring 16 points, including 10 in the fourth.

“There were a lot of people that actually deserved it,” LeVan said of the honor. “I did not think I was going to get it with how bad I played, but I played all right in the fourth quarter, we ended up winning and that’s what counts. It was a team effort.”

Other top efforts for the West included Garza with nine points, seven assists and four rebounds, Caro’s Bailey Krueger 10 points and six rebounds and Reese’s Drew Brechtelsbauer eight points and seven rebounds.

“Every one of these kids I’ve coached against,” Fabbro said. “It’s kind of neat. To be able to coach them, it was great.”

Partially lost in the furious fourth quarter comeback by the West was a great finish from the East’s Josh Schelke, of Harbor Beach. Schelke scored all 13 of his points in the second half, including nine points on three triples in the fourth. He also had six rebounds and three assists.

Harbor Beach teammate Dalton Okie finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds in the loss, while Sandusky’s Connor Green led all scorers with 17 points.

Prior to the game, the players put on a show with thrilling three-point and dunk contests.

In the three-point competition, Bad Axe’s Derek Geiger hit 16-of-25 to win it, including splashing eight shots in a row down the stretch to close it out.

Garza, who edged Schelke and LeVan in the finals, won a competitive dunk contest.

“Attendance spiked this year, as were able to nearly fill the lower bowl,” said TSA President Paul Adams. “In all, we drew nearly 150 more people than last year.”

Added Adams: “I feel like after two All-Thumb All-Star Games, we have established this as something the seniors want to be a part of and the fans want to attend. We’re already making plays for next year’s games.”

Here is the 2015 All-Thumb All-Star team! From left: Kurt Kubacki (Ubly), Blake Ruppal (Vassar), Drew Brechtelsbauer (Reese), Curtis Garza (North Branch), Bailey Krueger (Caro), DeAundre Callahan (Vassar), Tanner Tysick (Caro), Jared Brown (Bad Axe), Derek Geiger (Bad Axe), Jared Schrader (Reese), Austin LeVan (Millington), Austin Rice (North Huron) (photo by www.kg-photo.com)

Marge Turner passed away peacefully on June 20, 2015. She was a native resident of Caro and was raised in a family of 13 brothers and sisters, many of whom are still surviving. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Darlene Hart and is survived by her other 4 children, Carl, Doug, Jeanna and John McComb along with her fiancée of 35 years, Maurice Donnelly and his 3 children Debby, Bill and Roger. She was a Golden Member of Vassar Eagles 2380. She loved playing pool and visiting all her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be truly missed.

Reese forward, and Central Michigan basketball commit, Reyna Frost pulls down a rebound during the 2015 All-Thumb All-Star game. Frost finished with 16 points, eight rebounds, and six blocks. (photo by: www.kg-photo.com)

BY SETH STAPLETON 

Tribune Sports Writer 

SANDUSKY — A game full of runs ended with one final flurry at the second annual Thumb Sportswriters Association Girls All-Star Basketball Game at Sandusky High School Friday night.

The East All-Stars used that big run to pull away for a 56-44 win over the West All-Stars.

Tied at 40-40 with 5:45 left in the fourth quarter, the East got back to back three-pointers from Brown City’s Skye Willer to go up 46-40. Willer’s triples would kickstart a 16-4 run to close the game for the East, turning a tightly contested game into an easy win.

East coach Jay Green, of Kingston, said his team’s plan was to spread the West out on defense. Down the stretch, the strategy proved successful.

“We made a lot of shots — we made a lot of outside shots,” said Green. “I think that kind of was the difference in the game — our shooters stepped up tonight and made some shots and made us hard to guard.”

The East made seven shots from long distance in the game and had a balanced offensive attack, led by the game’s MVP Jamie Weber, of Harbor Beach. Weber finished the game with 13 points.

“I didn’t even know they did that, but it was really cool to get it,” Weber said of getting the honor. “I thought we played well. We had a good team.”

Added Weber: “It was fun. It was really cool playing with a bunch of girls who are your biggest rivals. It was nice being teammates with them.”

Weber teamed with Croswell-Lexington’s Megan Guitar to anchor the inside for the East. The duo helped limit West mega-talent Reyna Frost, of Reese, to 16 points on the night.

“I thought Megan Guitar and Jamie Weber inside were able to body her well and were able to keep her under control a little,” Green said.

Sam Ewald of USA drives to the basket against Kingston’s Jenna Boyl in the 2015 All-Thumb All-Star game. Ewald finished with a game-high 16 points in the 56-44 loss to the East All-Stars. (photo by: www.kg-photo.com)

Despite the attention, Frost was still able to put together a stellar effort, adding eight rebounds and six blocks to her game-high 16 points. West teammate Sam Ewald scored 16 points and five rebounds.

However, it was the balanced East squad that ruled in the end. To go with Weber’s 13 points, both Willer and Carsonville-Port Sanilac’s Katelyn Frostic tallied nine points and Guitar and Sandusky’s Brooke Krueger each added six points.

“It’s quite an honor to be in a showcase like this for their last senior game and it’s nice to see such a huge crowd here tonight to witness it,” Green said. “It’s a great event for Thumb basketball.”

Adding to the festivities was a very-competitive three-point contest. In a shootout between Sandusky’s Keegan Nelson, Caro’s Melissa Cockerill and Frost, it was Nelson who prevailed with a make at the buzzer to win by one.

“I could not have been more pleased with how well the games went this year,” said TSA President Paul Adams. “The entire night went very smooth and that was largely due to the efforts of Sandusky High School and the TSA members. Also, Clark Ramsey did a terrific job with the pacing of the event.”

Added Adams: “The games and the contests were fantastic and a wonderful showcase for the Thumb’s senior basketball players.”

Here is the 2015 West All-Thumb All-Stars! Front from left: Emily Wagner (Akron-Fairgrove), Courtney Southgate (Owen-Gage), Melissa Cockerill (Caro), Alliah Riddle (Cass City), Hannah Drake (Ubly), and Morgan Thomas (USA). Back from left: Brittany Hatfield (Lakers), Hailey Murray (Millington), Sam Ewald (USA), Reyna Frost (Reese), Bre Dinsmoore (USA), and Sarah Butch (Bad Axe). (photo by www.kg-photo.com)

Gary E. “Mac” McClellan, age 74 of Frankenmuth, passed away on Sunday, June 28th at his home in Frankenmuth. Gary was born on December 6, 1940 in Detroit to Wilbur A. McClellan and Charlotte (Kummer) McClellan. A proud fourth generation East Detroiter, Gary graduated from Austin Prep High School and went on to earn a degree in marketing with a specialty in accounting and business from University of Detroit. He put his degree to work quickly as he started an entrepreneurial career that would span five decades. He established fudge and candy stores along with several business properties that would stretch from Sault Ste. Marie to Frankenmuth and beyond. Gary approached each day of his business career with the same tenacity that he would display on racquetball courts across the State earning him a men’s class A State Racquetball Championship. He loved to watch, play, and debate a sport of any kind. While his business achievements were many, he was most proud of his family with wife Carol, who survives him. Gary married Carol Kinney on June 16, 1967 in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and this started a 48 year partnership of hard work and great times with family and friends alike. Also left with great memories of Gary are his children, their spouses, and grandchildren. They include daughter, Abby and Matt Curtis of Frankenmuth with children Sheila, Timothy and Ann; daughter, Ginger and John Medrick of Telluride, Colorado with sons Odin and Ryker; daughter, Jaami and Tony Rutledge of Newnan, Georgia with daughters Ariaana and Gabriella; and son, Zak and Korina McClellan of Frankenmuth. Other survivors include Gary’s sister, Lynn Hock; brother, Mike McClellan; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends that will surely miss his warm smile and lively conversation. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday July 3, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 958 E. Tuscola St., Frankenmuth. Fr. Robert Byrne will officiate with burial in Blessed Trinity Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to a Rosary on Thursday, July 2, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. Gary’s family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Thursday following the Rosary to 8:00 p.m. and at church on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation to St. Mary’s Catholic School, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, McClellan Family Endowment Fund at Lake Superior State University, or the German American Partnership Program through Frankenmuth High School. Please sign our guest book or share an online condolence with the family at www.cederbergfh.com.

Ruth Ann McConnell age 70 of Flint, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at McLaren Regional Hospital in Flint, following a lingering illness, and surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 16, 1945 in Saginaw, the daughter of the late R.A. Delbert and Ethelyn (Sherwood) Van Wormer, and spent most of her life in Caro, recently moving to Flint. Ruth was a loving mother, daughter and sister who cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had been employed in a number of places in and around Caro. She is survived by six children and their spouses, Perry McConnell of Clio, Valerie and Paul Cunningham of Durand, William and Melinda McConnell of Flint, Ruthie Gross of Clio, Tim and Linda McConnell of Vassar, Claton and Tina McConnell of Caro; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Ethelyn A. VanWormer of Caro, Alice Ann Shamel of Florida and Audrey Lee Blackmer of Caro; brothers, Robert VanWormer of Saginaw and Alfred G. Rayner of Caro; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three grandchildren, Justin, Dustin and Brett Cunningham; and one great-grandson, Daniel Hawkins. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2015 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Pastor Jay Blackmer officiating. Burial will follow at East Dayton Cemetery in Caro. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the McConnell Family Discretionary Fund, c/o Claton McConnell, 205 West Sherman St., Caro, MI 48723. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro. Friends may share memories, thoughts and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com.

By Mary Drier
Staff Writer

THUMB AREA — Law enforcement officials are looking for a person of interest in recent breaking and enterings in Tuscola, Huron and Sanilac counties.

“It appears the suspect vehicle from our larcenies was involved in a similar larceny over the weekend in Tuscola County,” said Huron County Sheriff Kelly Hanson.

On Tuesday, the Huron Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to Sobczak Construction on Sand Beach Road in Verona Township to investigate the larceny of a trailer. Deputies determined a 14-foot, enclosed 2000 Interstate tandem axle construction trailer had been broken into and its tool contents were removed by throwing them outside.

“This was believed to have occurred sometime between 1:30 and 6:20 a.m. The white trailer with black axles was then apparently taken to a nearby warehouse/storage yard belonging to B. W. Crisman Co., of Bad Axe,” Hanson said. “It appears two 55-gallon barrels of scrap copper product, valued between $2,000 and $3,000 was taken.”

Meanwhile, the Sanilac County Sheriff’s Department was investigating the theft of an Arctic Cat ATV, which apparently was taken during the same time frame as the larcenies in Huron County. The ATV was removed from a farm located on W. Sanilac Rd near M-53 in Lamont Township.

“Evidence found at that scene connected the stolen 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat Limited Addition Trail Model owned by Albert Terpenning, to our incidents. Our Deputies joined the Sanilac Deputies and continued the investigation,” Hanson said.

Surveillance footage was located in Marlette and Imlay City, which put the believed stolen trailer in the Imlay City area around 6:45 a.m.

“Our Deputies spent many hours in that area and received assistance from the Almont Police,” Hanson said. “As these investigations continue, we are asking for help in locating the whereabouts of the stolen trailer and tow vehicle, as well as any information about these crimes or suspects.”

On Sunday, the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Department took a report of a stolen trailer at a place of business outside of Caro. The suspect vehicle is a white colored Tahoe or Yukon with a black colored roof rack. It appears to have a single rear door.

Hanson said it is believed the theft is connected to similar incidents in Huron and Sanilac County.

B. W. Crisman Company is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

The suspect tow vehicle and stolen trailer are valued at $3,000 and the stolen ATV is valued at $16,000.

Anyone with information can contact the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Department at 989-673-8161 during regular business hours, or Tuscola County Central Dispatch at 989-673-UPET, or the Huron County Sheriff’s Department office during regular business hours at 989-269-6500 or Huron Central Dispatch anytime at 989-269-6421. Confidential callers can call the TIPS Line at 989-269-2861, or the Sanilac County Sheriff’s office at 810-648-2000. Confidential callers can also use our TIPS Line at 989-269-2861.

Carlee Selle, Reese

By: Mike Gallagher

Sports Writer

TUSCOLA COUNTY — It was a huge year for many of the softball programs in the Advertier coverage area in 2015.

The Unionville-Sebewaing Patriots reigned as state champions, Frankenmuth made an apperance in the state finals. The Reese Rockets won a regional championship, and the Mayville Wildcats won a district title for the first time in 13 years.

Quite a few softball players had some huge individual seasons as well, and the Advertiser coverage area featured 11 All-State performers.

One of those All-State performers was Nikki Bauer, a pitcher for USA. Bauer, a junior, earned the first spot on the All-Advertiser team for her stellar performance on the mound as the ace of the state champion Patriots.

Bauer finished the season with a perfect 26-0 record, with 25 complete games, 13 shutouts, five no-hitters, and three perfect games, and allowed only nine earned runs in 169 innings pitched to finish with a miniscule 0.37 earned run average. Bauer also struck out 223 batters, and allowed a .144 opponent batting average.

“Nikki was one of the most dominant pitchers in the state this season,” said USA coach Steve Bohn. “Her pitching was so dominant that her hitting gets overlooked most of the time. Her batting average was about 100 points better than it was last year. She was just an all-around great player this season.”

At the plate, Bauer finished with a team-high 60 hits, and batted .458 on the season.

The other pitcher named to the first team is Frankenmuth’s ace Amariah Wright. Wright, a senior, was an outstanding pitcher for the Eagles this season, leading them to the state finals in Division 2 with a 25-2 record, including a stretch in the playoffs where she threw four complete game shutouts, including a nine strikeout performance against Carleton Airport in the state semifinals.

“Amariah was a big part of our success this year,” said Frankenmuth coach Brad Walraven. “She broke the school record in hits and runs batted in this season, and she was a lot more confident on the mound this season after her injury last year. She will be playing for Mott this upcoming season, and she was just a wonderful person to coach.”

The catcher position is one of the most important postitions on a softball team. Bre Dinsmoore of USA did a great job this past season behind the plate for the Patriots managing the pitching staff, and also contributed a big part of the USA offense at the plate.

Dinsmoore, a senior All-State selection this year, let USA in batting average (.465), runs scored (54), runs batted in (55), and home runs (11), while also holding a .982 fielding percentage.

“Bre is a great hitter with power,” said Bohn. “In softball home runs put runs on the board in a hurry, and Bre can put runs on the board with one swing of the bat. She was probably the smartest players that I have coached as well.”

Leading off the infield for the All-Advertiser team is Reese four year starter Mikaela Stricker. Stricker, a All-State shortstop for the Rockets, switched positions at the beginning of the season to take over for two time Al-Stater Monica Hagen, and performed very well. She batted .385 with 13 doubles, four triples, and a .564 slugging percentage, while fielding at a .921 average.

“Mikaela volunteered to move to short this season, and really helped solidify our infield,” said Reese coach Andy Behmlander. “Even though defense is her specialty, her hitting was huge for us this year.”

Joining Stricker on the infield is USA second baseman Kayla Gremel. Gremel, a junior and All-State performer this past season, helped lead the Patriot infield, while also having a big year at the plate. Gremel played in all 43 of the USA games, and batted .413 with 50 hits, 31 RBIs, and 11 doubles, and only had two errors in 147 total chances at second base.

Lauryn Frenzel, Mayville

“Kayla had a great year for us at second,” said Bohn. “She was our most improved player this year and really anchored our infield. The way our pitcher threw this season, there was a lot of balls hit her way, and she did a great job.”

Gremel improved on a .250 batting average, 14 hits, and seven RBIs as a sophomore, to become an All-State, and All-Conference first teamer this season, and could make a similar jump next season as a senior.

The next infielder on the All-Advertiser team is Reese third baseman Kaylee Roles. Roles, a junior, was named first team All-State, and also first team All-Greater Thumb Conference this past year, and finished playing her third season at third base with .409 batting average, 40 RBIs, 52 hits, eight doubles, and two home runs. Roles also pitched for the Rockets, earning a 9-1 record with 77 strikeouts in 62 innings.

“I call her a hitting machine because everthing that she hits is usually ripped,” said coach Behmlander. “As good as her hitting has been though what I am most proud of is her defense. She has really worked hard at her position and has become an excellent defensive third baseman.”

The fourth infielder to earn All-Advertiser first team honors is Frankenmuth’s Andrea Perlberg. Perlberg, an All-State first teamer, and Central Michigan softball commit, was the leadoff hitter for the Eagles, and batted .433 this past season. She also broke her own school record for stolen bases, which she set as a junior, with 37 steals this season.

“Her game is quickness,” said Walraven. “She might be the fastest player that I have ever coached, and she was really a table setter for our offense, and made our offense go.”

Another speedster on the first team is Reese outfielder Maddie Coulter. Coulter, a junior, was named All-State, and was first team All-Conference. She batted .412, scored 50 runs, and stole 22 bases.

“Maddie has developed into one of the area’s best defensive outfielders,” said Behmlander. “She has always been fast, but she is really starting to realize how her speed can help her. She was our leadoff hitter, and hit consistently all year.”

Micaylee Root, Caro

Mayville centerfielder Hunter Wilson was a big part of the Wildcats success this past season, and earned All-State honorable mention honors in the process. Wilson held a .490 batting average this season as the Mayville cleanup hitter, and collected 42 hits, 39 RBIs and 11 doubles.

“Hunter had a great year,” said Mayville coach Mark Cooper. “She worked very hard in the offseason last year and it paid off. She was our most powerful bat, and was a very consistent centerfielder.”

Caro’s Mikaylee Root is on the All-Advertiser team as an outfielder, but played multiple positions for the Tigers this season, while batting .479 as the Caro leadoff hitter. Root will be joining the Delta College softball team as an outfielder.

“Micaylee was a great leadoff batter for us, who consistently got on base and advanced using her speed,” said Caro coach Beth Kirk. “She played three different positions defensively throughout our season and was an asset wherever she was playing. She is extremely coachable and a solid all around athlete, with great speed.”

“Mikaylee was a sparkplug for our team this year,” said Caro assistant coach Bob Tobey. “She got on base alot, was a fast runner, and stole alot of bases. She played some infield, but her best play was in the outfield. Whenever she would come to the plate the opposing team would be setting up special defenses trying to stop her.”

Carlee Selle was arguably the area’s top hitter this past season, and did a great job defensively as a catcher for Reese, earning her an All-Advertiser At-Large bid. Selle, only a sophomore, batted .531 this season, with 68 hits, 42 RBIs, 16 doubles, and seven home runs. Her on base percentage was .580, and her slugging was .914.

“Carlee took over for an all-state catcher two years ago, and we haven’t missed a beat,” said Behmlander. “She has caught every game the last two years, and she hits especially well in big games. She went 8-for-16 in our playoff run with three home runs. Her goal is to play in college, and I don’t see anything stopping her.”

The other At-Large player on the All-Advertiser team is Mayville pitcher Lauryn Frenzel. Frenzel, only a freshman, took to the role of the Wildcat’s ace quickly, throwing a no-hitter in her first varsity game this season. She finished the year with three no-hitters, and a 16-4 record, with 200 strikeouts.

“Lauryn is a truly amazing freshman, that had an incredible year,” said Cooper. “She is mature past her years.”

USA coach Steve Bohn, and Erica Treiber

Leading the All-Advertiser softball team as the Coach of the Year is USA Patriots head coach Steve Bohn. Bohn, in his fourth year of coaching the Patriots led his team to the Division 4 State Finals, and went 40-3 this season with a perfect 10-0 record in their conference. Bohn led the Patriots through their toughest schedule in recent memory, and now owns a 156-13 record as a coach.

“It’s an honor, but when you have the best players, you are going to be the best coach,” said Bohn.

“Coach Bohn was tough on us at times, but we never took anything personally because we all knew it was because he wanted us to be successful,” said USA senior Maddie Zimmer. “He always pushed us to be better and expected everyone to put forth their best effort. He was a great coach, and it was a pleasure to get the chance to play for him.”

Mike Gallagher is a sports writer for the Advertiser, and can be reached at sports@tcadvertiser.com

2015 All-Advertiser Softball

 First Team

Pitcher Nikki Bauer USA

Pitcher Amariah Wright Frankenmuth

Catcher Bre Dinsmoore USA

Infield Mikaela Stricker Reese

Infield Kaylee Roles Reese

Infield Kayla Gremel USA

Infield Andrea Perlberg Frankenmuth

Outfield Maddie Coulter Reese

Outfield Hunter Wilson Mayville

Outfield Mikaylee Root Caro

At-Large Carlee Selle Reese

At-Large Lauryn Frenzel Mayville

Head Coach Steve Bohn USA

 Second Team

Pitcher Mackenzie Coulter Reese

Pitcher Kyla Dutcher North Branch

Catcher Chaise Taylor Millington

Infield Kayli Leix Millington

Infield Jackie Jones North Branch

Infield Cassidy MacGuire Kingston

Infield Hannah Karwat Frankenmuth

Outfield Makenzie Sipes Frankenmuth

Outfield Sara Reinhardt USA

Outfield Macie Hornbacher Caro

At-Large Taylor Wright Millington

At-Large Chloe Weissenborn Caro

Honorable Mention

Caro – Melissa Cockerill, Morgan Eremia; Cass City – Alliah Riddle, Megan LeValley, Sayge Cuthrell; Frankenmuth – Alyssa Jarlock, Kayla Brooks; Kingston – Sara Savage, Alli Bundschuh; Millington – Hailey Murray, Calli Cunningham; Mayville – Miranda Zaremba, Teddi Sweeney, Natalie Gorde; Marlette – Courtney Quade; North Branch – Julia Kropp, Alyssa DeMeyers, Brianna Dean; Reese – Breyanna Thayer, Sam Prueter, Elaina Beyerlein; USA – Maddie Zimmer, Erica Treiber, Katie Englehardt, Brianna Osantowske; Vassar – Macy Zwerk, Hannah Tomlinson , Jenna Guile

David Binder (34), and the Owen-Gage Bulldogs will have a much different looking schedule this upcoming season, as the Mid-Michigan 8-Man League has added three schools, Hale, Burton Madison Academy, and Caseville. After playing in a four team conference last season, the Mid-Michigan 8-Man League will now feature seven teams. (photo by: John Cook)

By: Mike Gallagher

Sports Writer

OWENDALE — Eight-man football is picking up steam in the state of Michigan, as well as in the Mid-Michigan 8-man League.

The Michigan High School Athletic Association recently released their list of schools that will be competing in 8-Man football this season. After having 34 schools play 8-Man last season, there are now 43 for the 2015 season. While there are no new schools from the Advertiser coverage area joining 8-Man, there are a few new schools being added to the Mid-Michigan 8-Man League, the conference that features Owen-Gage and Akron-Fairgrove.

The Mid-Michigan 8-Man League was started in 2009, when Owen-Gage and Akron-Farigrove made the move from 11-man, after residing in the North Central Thumb League from 1972 and 1977 respectively.

“We went to eight-man out of necessity,” said Owen-Gage athletic director Matt Peters. “We want to see small schools like us compete, and we just didn’t have the numbers. We have over 50 percent of our boys in the high school playing football, but we would still have teams with only 11, or 12 players.”

While other smaller schools around the Thumb decided to make the move to 8-Man, the Mid-Michigan 8-Man League struggled to find members, and for the past three seasons only had four teams, Owen-Gage, Akron-Fairgrove, Flint Michigan School for the Deaf, and New Haven Merritt Academy.

The lack of league members, and the trouble of finding non-conference foes that were suitable in size, forced the teams to play each other league member twice in each season, and in the 2013 season, Akron-Fairgrove and Owen-Gage squared off three times.

This season will be different for the league, as they will now have seven teams, after the additions of Burton Madison Academy, Hale, and Caseville HIgh School.

Burton Madison Academy, out of Flint has been open since 2004, but just started playing football last season, and went 1-4, with their one win being a 54-46 victory over Flint Michigan School for the Deaf. They were classified as a Class D school last year, but this year they made the jump to Class C, and will not be able to play in the playoffs. Burton played both Owen-Gage and Akron-Fairgrove in basketball this past season, and should be a natural fit for the league, as they build their program.

Hale is in their first season of 8-Man football, after playing in the North-Star Conference since 1960. The Eagles have seen their enrollment drop to 132 kids this year, and have struggled to compete in 11-man, going just 4-22 the past three seasons.

The third team joining the conference, Caseville, might be the most appropriate addition to the league, as their enrollment (91 kids in the high school) matches up well with both Owen-Gage (49 kids), and Akron-Farigrove (99). Caseville, like Burton Madison, is in the early stages of their football program, as they did not have a football program from 1990-2011. When the NCTL went to 8-Man in 2012, the Eagles brought back their program, and in 2014 earned their first win, a 52-12 victory over Akron-Fairgrove.

“Caseville approached us with the idea of joining the league,” said Peters. “They are a great fit for the league, as they are only 14 miles from our school, and they are a natural rivalry for both us, and Akron-Fairgrove. I think they are very happy to be a part of our league.”

Despite their football program’s small numbers, Owen-Gage has been successful since making the move to 8-Man, and have gone 25-7 the past three seasons, and have made the playoffs in the last four.

Akron-Fairgrove has found similar success in 8-Man, going 16-13 the past three seasons, and making three playoff appearances since the move.

As for the Mid-Michigan 8-Man League, the number of teams could grow, or could decline.

“These teams might be in the league for the short term, or it might be in the long term,” said Peters. “At the beginning of the year we set a one year schedule, and then the next year we see who is still interested, and then go from there. All that is important to us is giving kids the chance to play and compete.”

Owen-Gage will open their season August 27th against New Haven Merritt, and Akron-Fairgrove will play August 27th against Caseville.

Mike Gallagher is a sports writer for the Advertiser, and can be reached at sports@tcadvertiser.com

2015 Akron-Fairgrove Football Schedule                                            2015 Owen-Gage Football Schedule

August 27th          @ Caseville                                                                       August 27th       @ Merritt Academy

September 3rd      vs. Michigan School for the Deaf                               September 3rd    vs. Burton Madison Academy

September 11th    vs. Hale                                                                            September 11th   @ Caseville

September 18th   vs. Burton Madison Academy                                      September 17th   vs Michigan School for the Deaf

September 25th   vs. Owen-Gage                                                                 September 25th   @ Akron-Fairgrove

October 2nd         vs. Caseville                                                                       October 2nd         vs. Merritt Academy

October 9th          @ Merritt Academy                                                          October 9th          vs. Hale

October 16th        @ Hale                                                                                October 16th        @ Burton Madison Academy

October 23rd        @ North Huron                                                                October 22            @ Michigan School for the Deaf

Naomi Barnes, 90, of Cass City, died Sunday, July 5, 2015 in her home with her loving family by her side. She was born January 11, 1925 in Carson City the second of four children born to Harold and Marie (Chase) Hyde. She married Andrew Barnes, Jr. December 30, 1942 in Caro.  He died May 22, 1998. Naomi worked for Cass City High School for 20 years as a bookkeeper. After her retirement, she came back and worked in the cafeteria and as the Chapter 1 bookkeeper. She served on the Home and Hospice Advantage board for several years. Naomi enjoyed working alongside her daughter, Andrea at Pebbles Plus. She was a member of the former Trinity United Methodist Church, now Cass City United Methodist Church. Naomi enjoyed sewing, counted cross stitch and quilting. She played Bridge in many groups over the years. Naomi is survived by her children:  Suzanne (Michael) Piereson of Richland, David (Donna) Barnes of Cass City, Timothy (Pamela) Barnes of Bay City, Gary (Kim) Barnes of Cass City, Andrea (Bill) Shagene of Cass City; grandchildren:  Brad (Christine) Piereson, Scott (Trisha) Piereson, Brian Barnes, Kimberly (Michael) Zehnder, Joshua (Karen) Barnes, Brandi Barnes, Laura Barnes, Caitlin (Anthony) Walther, Leah (Kevin) Hockenberry, Kerry (Greg) Walther, Andrew Shagene; step-grandchildren:  Brian Keys, Sheila (Bryan) Killey, Danielle (Eric) Reiber; great-grandchildren:  Andrew, Connor, Lexie, Derek, Carter, Jacob, Brittney, Adelaide, Olivia, Greyden, Emerson, Brandon, Victoria, Collon, Lyla, Jacob; sister, Rosemary Dillon of Caro; several nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her sister, Martha (Mike) Wysocki; brother, Jim (Tootie) Hyde. Memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2015 in Cass City United Methodist Church with Rev. Donald Ault, Home and Hospice Advantage Chaplain, officiating. Interment will be in Elkland Township Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to Rawson Memorial Library, Cass City United Methodist Church or Home and Hospice Advantage. Family and friends may share memories, prayers and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. Visitation:  10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2015 in Cass City United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, Michigan Debra L. Kranz, 989-872-2195

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”  2 Timothy 4:7 Ronald G. Kennedy went to be with Jesus on the morning of July 1, 2015.  Ron was born on April 23, 1940 on the family homestead in Mayville, the son of Leon and Genevieve (Kitchen) Kennedy. He graduated from Mayville High School, and attended General Motors Institute for a short time before joining the Flint Police Department. He was a decorated officer and retired as Police Sergeant after twenty-five years of service. Ron loved his farm, planting trees and working with wood.  He grew vegetables all winter long in his sunroom and he was an avid reader of any and every book. Ron leaves behind to cherish his memory, his sister and brother-in-law, Cecil and Genny Lynn Hartwick; sisters, Diana Smith and Janis Rossiter; sister-in-law, June Ann Taylor; and special friends, Cecil and Jenny McMurray. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jane Grace Taylor Kennedy; his parents, Leon and Genevieve Kennedy of Mayville; and his father- and mother-in-law, Frank and Mable Taylor of Caro. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at the Caro First Baptist Church with Rev. Ronald Wigand officiating. Burial will be at Indianfields Township Cemetery in Caro.  The family will be present to receive friends at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Mayville Public Library or the Caro First Baptist Church. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro.  Friends may share memories, thoughts and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com

Paul K. O’Brien of Caro, age 92, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2015 at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community, after an extended stay. Paul was born March 17, 1923 in Mayville, the son of the late Francis and Mary (Romain) O’Brien. On November 10, 1951, Paul was united in marriage with the former Sally Cockerill at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Caro. She preceded him in death on March 8, 1998. Paul attended Arthur Hill Trade School in Saginaw to become a millwright. He was employed by Eaton Foundry until his retirement, and also took care of the family farm. Paul loved spending time with his family and taking care of others. He was a life member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He was also a sixty-two year member of the Caro Knights of Columbus Council #3224 and served on the color guard of the 4th Degree. In his early “retirement,” he enjoyed playing golf with his wife and vacationing in Texas. Paul is survived by six children and their spouses, Micheal and Denise O’Brien of Ypsilanti, Bridget and Charles Smith of Caro, son-in-law, Robert TerBush of Caro, Thomas and Jacqueline O’Brien of Roscommon, SueAnn and Robert Hanes of Cass City, Jo and Brian Salgat of Lowell, Peter O’Brien of Caro; nineteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; one brother and his wife, Ray and Harriet O’Brien of Mayville; his mother-in-law, Dorothy Cockerill of Caro; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, Paul was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary TerBush; two grandchildren, Lauren O’Brien and Kyle Smith; and seven siblings. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2015 at St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Campus in Caro with Rev. John Ladd officiating. Burial was in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Caro. The family was present to receive friends at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro on Monday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in conjunction with the color guard of the 4th Degree. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Paul O’Brien Family Discretionary Fund, c/o of Bridget Smith, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, Michigan  48723, to be distributed to his many community charities. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro. Friends may share memories, thoughts and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com.

Ruth Elizabeth Mohr of Millington went peacefully to be with the Lord on Friday, July 3, 2015 while at the Stonegate Health Campus in Lapeer with her niece Debbie at her side. Ruth was 82. Ruth was born on February 8, 1933, in McKinley Township, Huron County, Michigan. She was the tenth child of Henry W. and Louise W. (Boehner) Mohr. She spent her childhood in the Alger, Michigan area and graduated from Holly High School in 1950. She attended Central Michigan Teachers College and taught 1st grade at Glaza Elementary in Millington, retiring in June of 1992 after 40 years of teaching. Ruth loved traveling, reading books, gardening, and tending to her family of cats. She loved being an aunt of 37 nieces and nephews and a teacher to the hundreds of children she had in her classrooms. Ruth is survived by her brother, Henry (Muriel) Mohr; sisters-in-law, Barbara Mohr and Beth Mohr; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Walter and Fred Mohr, and nine sisters, Wilma, Theresa, Louise, Henrietta, Catherine, Caroline, Eleanor, Florence, and Grace. The family would like to thank the staff of Hometown Hospice for making Ruth’s final days comfortable and a special thank you to the staff on Legacy Lane at Stonegate, especially 1st shift aides, Brenda and Gianna, for the wonderful care they gave her after she moved in on December 4, 2012. The family will receive friends at the Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington on Wednesday, July 8, 2015 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm and also for a brief time on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church from 10:00 am until the services begin. Funeral services for Ruth will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at St. Paul Lutheran Church with the burial to follow at the Millington Township Cemetery. Pastor Kirk Abatelli will deliver the funeral message, and the closing prayer at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts of remembrance can be directed to St. Paul Lutheran Church or school or to the Evan P. Johnson Memorial Scholarship fund. Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington has been assisting the family with the arrangements. Personal condolences, sharing memories and lighting a memory candle can be done at hanlinfuneralhome. com.

Robert C. Rabideau, 89, of Cass City died following a short illness Sunday, July 5, 2015 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born April 4, 1926 at home in Gagetown the third of seven children born to George and Della (Menzel) Rabideau. He married Vivian Rose Kappen July 5, 1947 in St. Pancratius Catholic Church, Cass City. Bob died on their 68th wedding anniversary. Bob served in the US Army in the South Pacific during World War II. After returning from the Army, he worked for Rabideau Motor Sales before starting Bob’s Bump Shop, which he operated for over 30 years. Bob was a member of Our Lady Consolata Parish St. Pancratius Catholic Church and Cass City Gagetown Knights of Columbus Council #8892. He enjoyed deer hunting and pheasant hunting. Bob enjoyed boating and truly loved spending time at his cottage in Caseville with family and friends. Bob is survived by his wife, Vivian; children: Bob (Elaine) Rabideau of Lansing, Renee Rabideau of Royal Oak; grandchildren: Nathan (Charlene) Rabideau, Rachel (Nick) Lipinski, Amanda Rabideau; great-grandchildren: Braden, Gavin, Stella, William and Jacob; sisters-in-law: Judy Rabideau of West Branch, Myrtle Rabideau of Cass City; many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his siblings: Wayne “Buck” (Mary) Rabideau, Lee (Shirley) Rabideau, Dale (Delores) Rabideau, Eldon Rabideau, Dean Rabideau, Pat Rabideau and Marcella (Clark) Seeley, Velma Helwig. Funeral service will be held 12:00 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2015 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City. Interment will be in Elkland Township Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Our Lady Consolata Parish St. Pancratius Catholic Church. Family and friends may share memories, prayers and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. Visitation: 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 2015 in Kranz Funeral Home – Cass City

Earl J. “E.J.” Scott of Caro, age 65, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2015 at St. Mary’s of Michigan in Saginaw, following a lingering battle with cancer. He was born February 2, 1950 in Bad Axe, the son of the late Earl W. and Arlene (Smukala) Scott. Following graduation from Kinde High School, Earl started a forty-four year employment with Tower Automotive in Elkton, retiring in 2012. Earl was united in marriage with the former Sherry L. Hitsman on October 19, 2007 in Caro. He attended Living Waters Chapel in Caro and during his free time he loved working outside in his yard, collecting and watching movies and was a huge fan of all Detroit sports teams. Earl is survived by his wife, Sherry L. Scott of Caro; his two children, Amanda and Mike Janisse of Roscommon, Tim and Crystal Scott of St. Helen; one step-daughter, Kris Kelly of Canton; seven grandchildren, Greg, Michael and Catie Janisse, Callen and Henry Scott, Alexandria and Ethan Kelly; one sister, Carol Parker and her husband, Rob, of Caro; and several aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. In keeping with Earl’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to Dorothy Scott for her ministry to the deaf, c/o 205 West Sherman St., Caro, MI 48723. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro. Friends may share memories, thoughts and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com.

By Andrea McBride
Staff Writer

CARO —Besides being over the age of 50, there is only one requirement to be one of the Scarlet Sisters of Caro: be happy.

The Scarlet Sisters of Caro who attended the 10th anniversary celebration are (front row, from left) Suzanne Reed, Carol Haag; (middle row) Queen Marcia Leonard, Ladonna Redmond, Onna Lee Miklovic, Vice Queen Sharon Rumon, Jean Dean, Shelly MacNicol; (back row) Mary Ann Szpunar, Clara Ackerman, Cheree Szidik, Dianna Bondy, Carol Dworzecki, Jackie Garcia and Celia Hous. Nine of the 22 charter members attended the celebration. They were Reed, Haag, Miklovic, Rumon, Dean, MacNicol, Leonard, Ackerman and Garcia.

The club, which is similar to the Red Hat Society, celebrated its 10-year anniversary last month by eating a fancy dinner and remembering past events. It also took time to reminisce about members who have passed on: Donna Cramer, Barb Tetil, Lucille Noble, Elizabeth Bartholomew and Dorothy McAlpine.

Scarlet Sisters was started on June 22, 2005 at the home of Marcia Leonard, who was given the title of queen of the club. Word spread quickly about the social group, and the decision was made to cap it at 30 members, which resulted in a waiting list for about five years.

The club does its best to support local restaurants, which Leonard said is one reason why it is limited to 30 people.

“It’s difficult to find restaurants that will accommodate large crowds, and we love to have house parties,” Leonard said.

Members try to support one area restaurant each month. They also attend plays at the Thumb Area Center for the Arts, local church activities and events such as the yearly Taste of Caro.

“Anything going on in the area, if we know about it far enough ahead of time, we’ll support it,” Leonard said.

To add variety, the Scarlet Sisters also go on outings to cities such as Saginaw, Bay City and Frankenmuth. They have attended Great Lakes Loons baseball games, gone to the Children’s Zoo and visited Great Lakes National Cemetery, among several other activities.

Every November, they collect items to send to servicemen.

Leonard said the group tries to meet weekly, but members may come as often or as little as they please depending on schedules.

The ladies’ motto is “the gaudier the better.” They can easily be found at meetings and outings due to their infamous red hats and purple clothing. For official Red Hat functions, such as the 10th anniversary, they pull out fancier hats and clothing with rhinestones, glitter and feathers.

Leonard said being a Scarlet Sister has given her several good friends she knows she can count on, even for matters that are not Red Hat related.

“I never had a sister, and so I feel like I now have 22 sisters,” Leonard said.

Scarlet Sisters is at 24 members and hopes to recruit six more. The club meets at 5 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at Brentwood in Caro. For more information, call Leonard at 673-5250.

Women under 50 are also permitted to join. Instead of red and purple, they wear a pink hat and lavender clothes. When they turn 50, a “reduation” ceremony takes place and they then begin wearing the traditional colors.

Leonard said the club gives members a chance to escape from the stress of everyday life and be silly.

“They’ve got all week long to sit home and stew and fret about all their problems,” Leonard said. “But when they gather together, when they put their red hat on, they put on their happy attitude … and just have fun.”

Ryan Richard Timko, 39, of Gulfport, FL passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Northside Hospital. Ryan was born on October 15, 1975 in Saginaw, Michigan. He moved to this area in 2006 coming from Caro, Michigan. He worked as a chef. Ryan is survived by his two loving children Logan Skye and Tak Michael along with his father Richard Philip (Linda) Timko of Caro, MI and mother Kathleen (Steve) Mazzola of St. Pete Beach, FL and step-brother Jason Timko of Caro, MI. He is survived by Jean Timko, grandmother, many loving aunts, uncles and cousins. A memorial was held in Florida. Donations may be made at any Team One Credit Union and Ryan Timko Memorial Fund. Condolences may be offered at www.beachmemorial.com.

Anna Ortner, 92, of Reese, died Tuesday afternoon, July 7, 2015 at Sterling Home Care in Vassar. She was born October 15, 1922 in Saginaw, daughter of the late Gustave and Ottillia (Sabgash) Bushke. On March 6, 1948, she was married to Raymond Ortner in Saginaw. He predeceased her August 24, 1999. Anna was a homemaker most of her life and was a member of the St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Richville. Surviving is her son and daughter-in-law, Myron and Nancy Ortner of Reese; two grandchildren, Steven Ortner and Sarah Jane Ortner, both of Reese; her great-grandson, Zachary Ortne;, twin brother, Adolph Bushke and his wife Ruth of Birch Run; and her caregiver, Sandra Withers. In addition to her parents and husband, Anna was predeceased by her son, David Ortner, December 7, 1971 and her sisters, Bertha Rohn, Martha Rosseau, Olga Hartner, Elsie Stellwag and Emma Carigan.  Funeral Services will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, July 13, 2015 from the St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Richville. Rev. Wesley Gillaspie and Rev. Rob Gadeken will both officiate with committal services to follow in the St. Michael’s Cemetery. Anna’s family will receive friends at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 9940 Saginaw St. in Reese on Sunday from 4-7 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. Michael’s Lutheran Church.