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Cirque Du Soleil – Quidam

NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Amo Gulinello, the clown, and Alessandra Gonzalez, as Zoe, sit at the edge of the stage while the performances go on around them at Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. 120518_cirque_08 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Amo Gulinello, the clown, and Alessandra Gonzalez, as Zoe, sit at the edge of the stage while the performances go on around them at Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net A performer flies high during the aerial hoop act in Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. 120518_cirque_07 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net A performer flies high during the aerial hoop act in Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Tanya Burka performs during the aerial contortion act during Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. 120518_cirque_06 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Tanya Burka performs during the aerial contortion act during Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The clown, right, played by Amo Gulinello, performs at Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. 120518_cirque_05 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The clown, right, played by Amo Gulinello, performs at Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Target, played by Andrea Ziegler, takes center stage in the opening act of Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. 120518_cirque_04 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Target, played by Andrea Ziegler, takes center stage in the opening act of Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Clockwise from top left, Patrick McGuire, Denise Wal, Andrea Ziegler, Alessandra Gonzalez, and Mark Ward perform in the opening act of Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. The show opened last night and continues through Sunday. 120518_cirque_03 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Clockwise from top left, Patrick McGuire, Denise Wal, Andrea Ziegler, Alessandra Gonzalez, and Mark Ward perform in the opening act of Cirque Du Solei - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw on Wednesday. The show opened last night and continues through Sunday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Shengnan Pan does her hair backstage after practicing her Chinese yo-yo act before the opening of Cirque Du Soleil - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw. 120518_cirque_02 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Shengnan Pan does her hair backstage after practicing her Chinese yo-yo act before the opening of Cirque Du Soleil - Quidam at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Anna Ostapenko warms up backstage at the Dow Event Center before Cirque Du Soleil - Quidam opens on Wednesday. Ostapenko performs a hand balancing act in the show. 120518_cirque_01 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Anna Ostapenko warms up backstage at the Dow Event Center before Cirque Du Soleil - Quidam opens on Wednesday. Ostapenko performs a hand balancing act in the show.

May 19, 2012 | Categories: Features | Leave A Comment »

The Daverts

NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Melissa Davert of Bay City gives Sammie the family dog a treat before getting him out of the kitchen to start dinner on Monday. Since Sammie is the same height as Melissa's stove, he has to be kept out of the room around mealtimes. 120508_davert_family_006 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Melissa Davert of Bay City gives Sammie the family dog a treat before getting him out of the kitchen to start dinner on Monday. Since Sammie is the same height as Melissa's stove, he has to be kept out of the room around mealtimes.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert unbuckles Austin's seatbelt after arriving home from school while Michaela waits for her turn on Monday. Austin and Michaela are 13-year-old twins who both have Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a brittle bone condition, and they use power chairs at school. The family is in a contest to win a new wheelchair accessible van from the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. The family with the most votes wins a van and voting is open until Sunday. 120508_davert_family_005 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert unbuckles Austin's seatbelt after arriving home from school while Michaela waits for her turn on Monday. Austin and Michaela are 13-year-old twins who both have Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a brittle bone condition, and they use power chairs at school. The family is in a contest to win a new wheelchair accessible van from the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. The family with the most votes wins a van and voting is open until Sunday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Michaela Davert, 13, works on homework in the living room on Monday. 120508_davert_family_004 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Michaela Davert, 13, works on homework in the living room on Monday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert loads a suitcase with homework into the van while picking up Melissa and Austin, both 13, from Christa Mcauliffe Middle School on Monday. 120508_davert_family_03 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert loads a suitcase with homework into the van while picking up Melissa and Austin, both 13, from Christa Mcauliffe Middle School on Monday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Austin Davert, 13, plays games on his computer at home on Monday. Austin enjoys playing flight simulator games as well as building games like Minecraft. 120508_davert_family_003 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Austin Davert, 13, plays games on his computer at home on Monday. Austin enjoys playing flight simulator games as well as building games like Minecraft.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert talks to his mother on the phone about the possibility of a new van while Melissa works on making pudding at her stove on Monday. 120508_davert_family_002 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ken Davert talks to his mother on the phone about the possibility of a new van while Melissa works on making pudding at her stove on Monday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Austin Davert, 13, pets Sammie, the family dog, after coming home from school on Monday. 120508_davert_family_001 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Austin Davert, 13, pets Sammie, the family dog, after coming home from school on Monday.

May 8, 2012 | Categories: Features | Leave A Comment »

Month in Photos: April

THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Saginaw's Brandon Archibald celebrates his third period goal in the Spirit's playoff game Sunday night against the London Knights at the Dow Event Center. MIP_april_35 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Saginaw's Brandon Archibald celebrates his third period goal in the Spirit's playoff game Sunday night against the London Knights at the Dow Event Center.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Joe Vieau competes in the shot put event during the Graves/Swayze Relays Friday at Midland Community Stadium. MIP_april_34 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Joe Vieau competes in the shot put event during the Graves/Swayze Relays Friday at Midland Community Stadium.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood pitcher Luke Bivens works out his arm before the Timberwolves game against Saginaw Valley State Wednesday at SVSU. Bivens wasn't scheduled to pitch but is planned to on Friday when Northwood plays Wayne State. See sports for more on Northwood's game against SVSU. MIP_april_33 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood pitcher Luke Bivens works out his arm before the Timberwolves game against Saginaw Valley State Wednesday at SVSU. Bivens wasn't scheduled to pitch but is planned to on Friday when Northwood plays Wayne State. See sports for more on Northwood's game against SVSU.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Bry Collins, left, is greeted by teammates at home plate after a home run in the first inning Thursday at Midland High School. Bay City Western won the first game of a doubleheader 7-3. MIP_april_32 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Bry Collins, left, is greeted by teammates at home plate after a home run in the first inning Thursday at Midland High School. Bay City Western won the first game of a doubleheader 7-3.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Michigan State Professor David Smitley conducts measurements on the Foucault Pendulum at the Midland Center for the Arts on Tuesday, April 24. Smitley, an entomologist, started studying the Coriolis effect a few years ago as a side project and is gathering data for an upcoming research paper. MIP_april_31 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Michigan State Professor David Smitley conducts measurements on the Foucault Pendulum at the Midland Center for the Arts on Tuesday, April 24. Smitley, an entomologist, started studying the Coriolis effect a few years ago as a side project and is gathering data for an upcoming research paper.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Landon Lagalo, left, and Spencer Schwellenbach round the bases at Dow Diamond on Tuesday in between games of a double-header between Northwood and Saginaw Valley. For coverage of the games, please see SPORTS. MIP_april_30 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Landon Lagalo, left, and Spencer Schwellenbach round the bases at Dow Diamond on Tuesday in between games of a double-header between Northwood and Saginaw Valley. For coverage of the games, please see SPORTS.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Northwood University student Shirine Patillo waits backstage for her turn on the runway on Friday at Muse, the university's 11th annual student-run style show. MIP_april_29 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Northwood University student Shirine Patillo waits backstage for her turn on the runway on Friday at Muse, the university's 11th annual student-run style show.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Congressman Eric Cantor, Majority Leader, left, was featured at the Midland County Republican Party annual spring fundraiser at The H Hotel in Midland on Monday. Cantor spoke on the need for smaller government before a crowd of approximately. MIP_april_28 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Congressman Eric Cantor, Majority Leader, left, was featured at the Midland County Republican Party annual spring fundraiser at The H Hotel in Midland on Monday. Cantor spoke on the need for smaller government before a crowd of approximately.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Ron Shock competes in the tire flip event during the Motor City's Strongest Man competition Saturday at Warren Mott High School in Warren. The tires used in the heavyweight division weighed about 600 pounds. Shock won second place in his weight class and second place overall in the competition. MIP_april_27 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Ron Shock competes in the tire flip event during the Motor City's Strongest Man competition Saturday at Warren Mott High School in Warren. The tires used in the heavyweight division weighed about 600 pounds. Shock won second place in his weight class and second place overall in the competition.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Midland City Fire Department firefighters transport a man from the scene of an accident on Friday. The car hit a telephone pole breaking it in half causing a downed wire. MIP_april_26 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Midland City Fire Department firefighters transport a man from the scene of an accident on Friday. The car hit a telephone pole breaking it in half causing a downed wire.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Alex Goodwin, left, tags out Heritage's Thomas Baker at home in the second inning Thursday at Midland High School. Midland won the first game of a doubleheader 11-5. MIP_april_25 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Alex Goodwin, left, tags out Heritage's Thomas Baker at home in the second inning Thursday at Midland High School. Midland won the first game of a doubleheader 11-5.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Christian Gordon, 11, winds up to throw the ball to his brother Elijah, 9, Friday in the parking lot of The Mane Hair Company. The two, who are on spring break, played catch outside while their parents were cleaning inside the business. The brothers took advantage of the nice weather and the time off from school to practice their baseball skills. MIP_april_24 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Christian Gordon, 11, winds up to throw the ball to his brother Elijah, 9, Friday in the parking lot of The Mane Hair Company. The two, who are on spring break, played catch outside while their parents were cleaning inside the business. The brothers took advantage of the nice weather and the time off from school to practice their baseball skills.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Left to right, Hannah Bartels, Madison Pfahl, Sarah Schulte, Kara Jobe and Rachel Crowley recite the Girl Scout Promise at the Midland Historical Society on Thursday at the opening of a new Girl Scouts exhibit titled "100 Years and S'more: Celebrating a Century of Girl Scouting." MIP_april_23 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Left to right, Hannah Bartels, Madison Pfahl, Sarah Schulte, Kara Jobe and Rachel Crowley recite the Girl Scout Promise at the Midland Historical Society on Thursday at the opening of a new Girl Scouts exhibit titled "100 Years and S'more: Celebrating a Century of Girl Scouting."
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net A chickadee flies to a tree trunk into which it is carving out a nest at the Chippewa Nature Center. MIP_april_22 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net A chickadee flies to a tree trunk into which it is carving out a nest at the Chippewa Nature Center.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Melissa McClain sings at a rehearsal for heal in Hangar 3 at Midland Barstow airport. MIP_april_21 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Melissa McClain sings at a rehearsal for heal in Hangar 3 at Midland Barstow airport.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Northwood shortstop Jason Fracassa makes a diving catch in shallow center field in the seventh inning against Saginaw Valley on Tuesday at Dow Diamond. MIP_april_20 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Northwood shortstop Jason Fracassa makes a diving catch in shallow center field in the seventh inning against Saginaw Valley on Tuesday at Dow Diamond.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Author Ben Mikaelsen speaks to students Tuesday at Bullock Creek High School in the auditorium. Mikaelsen spoke to students about the importance of acceptance and anti-bullying and the role hard work plays into making your dreams come true. MIP_april_19 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Author Ben Mikaelsen speaks to students Tuesday at Bullock Creek High School in the auditorium. Mikaelsen spoke to students about the importance of acceptance and anti-bullying and the role hard work plays into making your dreams come true.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow's Erik Partlo clears 9 feet during the pole vault event during the Graves/Swayze Relays Friday at Midland Community Stadium. MIP_april_18 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow's Erik Partlo clears 9 feet during the pole vault event during the Graves/Swayze Relays Friday at Midland Community Stadium.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Consumers Energy lineman Ray Scherf of Bay City pulls a downed power line tight on Monday on East Bombay Road in Larkin Township. The road was closed for approximately an hour for the repair by the Larkin Township Fire Department who responded to the scene. High winds downed trees and power lines across the county. MIP_april_17 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Consumers Energy lineman Ray Scherf of Bay City pulls a downed power line tight on Monday on East Bombay Road in Larkin Township. The road was closed for approximately an hour for the repair by the Larkin Township Fire Department who responded to the scene. High winds downed trees and power lines across the county.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Fred Sovia smiles during a game of cribbage at the Midland Cribbage Club on Monday at Washington Woods Senior Living Community. MIP_april_16 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Fred Sovia smiles during a game of cribbage at the Midland Cribbage Club on Monday at Washington Woods Senior Living Community.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Edenville Township firefighters investigate and work to put out hot spots in a vehicle at the scene of a rollover accident on North Water Road near the Leonard Street intersection Wednesday evening in Sanford. The vehicle caught fire in the crash and the only occupant of the vehicle got out on his own accord. North Water Road was closed during the investigation and clean up. No information the condition of the driver or the cause of the crash or was available at the scene. MIP_april_15 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Edenville Township firefighters investigate and work to put out hot spots in a vehicle at the scene of a rollover accident on North Water Road near the Leonard Street intersection Wednesday evening in Sanford. The vehicle caught fire in the crash and the only occupant of the vehicle got out on his own accord. North Water Road was closed during the investigation and clean up. No information the condition of the driver or the cause of the crash or was available at the scene.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Loons' new mascot Rall E. Camel throws out the first pitch before the Loons' home-opening game against the Captains Monday at Dow Diamond. The Captains won 8-0. MIP_april_14 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Loons' new mascot Rall E. Camel throws out the first pitch before the Loons' home-opening game against the Captains Monday at Dow Diamond. The Captains won 8-0.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net From left, Matt Laney, Yimi Garcia, Ryan O'Sullivan, Eric Eadington and Jason West stand at attention during the playing of the National Anthem before the Loons' took on the Captains Monday at Dow Diamond. The Captains won 8-0. MIP_april_13 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net From left, Matt Laney, Yimi Garcia, Ryan O'Sullivan, Eric Eadington and Jason West stand at attention during the playing of the National Anthem before the Loons' took on the Captains Monday at Dow Diamond. The Captains won 8-0.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Great Lakes Loons pitcher Eric Eadington, right, looks on as teammate and fellow pitcher Ryan O'Sullivan practices his pitching motion during the first day of workouts in Midland on Tuesday at Dow Diamond. The Loons start the season against the Lugnuts on Friday in Lansing. MIP_april_12 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Great Lakes Loons pitcher Eric Eadington, right, looks on as teammate and fellow pitcher Ryan O'Sullivan practices his pitching motion during the first day of workouts in Midland on Tuesday at Dow Diamond. The Loons start the season against the Lugnuts on Friday in Lansing.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Lou E. Loon, right, pretends to propose to Staff Sgt. Sissy Hollon before the start of the Loons' home opening day parade Monday in downtown Midland. Hollon and others from the Michigan National Guard were on hand to present the colors at the start of the parade. MIP_april_11 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Lou E. Loon, right, pretends to propose to Staff Sgt. Sissy Hollon before the start of the Loons' home opening day parade Monday in downtown Midland. Hollon and others from the Michigan National Guard were on hand to present the colors at the start of the parade.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Jennifer Rey of Midland carefully outlines her feet in chalk on Friday while chalking sidewalks downtown with messages and statistics for the One Day Without Shoes event. Rey, along with her coworkers from B+B, are joining a campaign to go without shoes on April 10 to raise awareness for children who have to go without shoes around the world. The event is designed to spark conversations and give the participants a glimpse at what it's like to go without shoes daily. MIP_april_10 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Jennifer Rey of Midland carefully outlines her feet in chalk on Friday while chalking sidewalks downtown with messages and statistics for the One Day Without Shoes event. Rey, along with her coworkers from B+B, are joining a campaign to go without shoes on April 10 to raise awareness for children who have to go without shoes around the world. The event is designed to spark conversations and give the participants a glimpse at what it's like to go without shoes daily.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Violet Smith smiles as Kristin Kozuch as she is greeted by the staff at King's Daughters Home in Midland on the way her 110th birthday party. The staff lined the hallway leading to the dining room with 110 balloons. Smith was born on April 7, 1902, and grew up in Saginaw. Smith is Midland county's oldest resident. MIP_april_09 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Violet Smith smiles as Kristin Kozuch as she is greeted by the staff at King's Daughters Home in Midland on the way her 110th birthday party. The staff lined the hallway leading to the dining room with 110 balloons. Smith was born on April 7, 1902, and grew up in Saginaw. Smith is Midland county's oldest resident.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood's Jake Oard slides under Saginaw Valley State's Kyle Parks during the inning 7th Wednesday at SVSU. Oard was called out on the play. Saginaw Valley State won 5-3. MIP_april_08 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood's Jake Oard slides under Saginaw Valley State's Kyle Parks during the inning 7th Wednesday at SVSU. Oard was called out on the play. Saginaw Valley State won 5-3.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Jennifer Gentile of Midland focuses on unfolding a glove at the Arnold Center in Midland on Wednesday. Gentile has worked at the center since October. "It's tedious," said Gentile. "But you get a lot done." MIP_april_07 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Jennifer Gentile of Midland focuses on unfolding a glove at the Arnold Center in Midland on Wednesday. Gentile has worked at the center since October. "It's tedious," said Gentile. "But you get a lot done."
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Great Lakes Loons' Devin Shines walks up to the plate for his at bat in the Dodgers game against the Indians during the last week of spring training at the Goodyear Ballpark training facility in Goodyear, Ariz. MIP_april_06 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Great Lakes Loons' Devin Shines walks up to the plate for his at bat in the Dodgers game against the Indians during the last week of spring training at the Goodyear Ballpark training facility in Goodyear, Ariz.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Maikol Gonzalez's necklace sits above the Major League Baseball logo on his jersey while the team performs drills during the last week of spring training at the Camelback Ranch training facility in Glendale, Ariz. MIP_april_05 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Maikol Gonzalez's necklace sits above the Major League Baseball logo on his jersey while the team performs drills during the last week of spring training at the Camelback Ranch training facility in Glendale, Ariz.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Summer Martin, 4, right, stands on the corner of a tarp as her mother Jennifer Martin, with Personal Touch Lawn Care & Landscaping, rakes up clippings while working outside Curves for Women off Wackerly Street on Wednesday. Jennifer, her husband Gary and Angela Haley were working in Midland for the day. The Martin's daughter Summer and Angela's daughter Kassie Haley, 5, joined their parents for the work day after finishing up preschool for the term. MIP_april_04 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Summer Martin, 4, right, stands on the corner of a tarp as her mother Jennifer Martin, with Personal Touch Lawn Care & Landscaping, rakes up clippings while working outside Curves for Women off Wackerly Street on Wednesday. Jennifer, her husband Gary and Angela Haley were working in Midland for the day. The Martin's daughter Summer and Angela's daughter Kassie Haley, 5, joined their parents for the work day after finishing up preschool for the term.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Saginaw Valley State University student Arti Gamara models Indian fashion during the fashion show portion of the Passport to the World international fair at Saginaw Valley State University on Thursday. Saginaw Valley State University international students set up booths with info about their home countries and showed the elementary school students traditional song and dance. MIP_april_03 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Saginaw Valley State University student Arti Gamara models Indian fashion during the fashion show portion of the Passport to the World international fair at Saginaw Valley State University on Thursday. Saginaw Valley State University international students set up booths with info about their home countries and showed the elementary school students traditional song and dance.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Fran Galke works on a quilt in her studio on Monday in Auburn. Galke was chosen as Quilter of the Year by the quilting group she belongs to Ð Quilters Squared. Several of her quilts will be featured at the groupÕs annual quilt show, which is Apr. 27, 28 and 29 at the Carriage House. MIP_april_02 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Fran Galke works on a quilt in her studio on Monday in Auburn. Galke was chosen as Quilter of the Year by the quilting group she belongs to Ð Quilters Squared. Several of her quilts will be featured at the groupÕs annual quilt show, which is Apr. 27, 28 and 29 at the Carriage House.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Greg Varner of Breckenridge lights a patch of grass during a prescribed burn on Jeff Sugden's land in Mount Haley Township on Thursday. Sugden uses the land for hunting said he burns the brush off the land every three years to maintain a habitat for pheasants and make room for new growth. Varner, along with Sugden and several family members and friends carefully planned out the burn to ensure their safety and that it accomplished their goals. MIP_april_01 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Greg Varner of Breckenridge lights a patch of grass during a prescribed burn on Jeff Sugden's land in Mount Haley Township on Thursday. Sugden uses the land for hunting said he burns the brush off the land every three years to maintain a habitat for pheasants and make room for new growth. Varner, along with Sugden and several family members and friends carefully planned out the burn to ensure their safety and that it accomplished their goals.

May 1, 2012 | Categories: Features, Month in Photos, News, Sports | Leave A Comment »

Month in Photos: March

LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News St. John's eighth grader Emily Webb, 14, glances down the street while relaxing on the swing on a recent Saturday afternoon at St. John's Lutheran School. "It's kind of nice to be out her on my own. Nice and quiet," said Emily, who was listening to OneRepublic on the radio. Listening on the swing LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News St. John's eighth grader Emily Webb, 14, glances down the street while relaxing on the swing on a recent Saturday afternoon at St. John's Lutheran School. "It's kind of nice to be out her on my own. Nice and quiet," said Emily, who was listening to OneRepublic on the radio.
LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Marc Dean, 12, dabs paint on his face at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library during The Hunger Games release party on Sunday, March 18, 2012. Marc, a sixth grader at Northeast Middle School, said his favorite character of the trilogy is President Snow, the antagonist. "You just have to love the bad guy," explained Marc. "You can't have a good story without a good bad guy." Hunger Games LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Marc Dean, 12, dabs paint on his face at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library during The Hunger Games release party on Sunday, March 18, 2012. Marc, a sixth grader at Northeast Middle School, said his favorite character of the trilogy is President Snow, the antagonist. "You just have to love the bad guy," explained Marc. "You can't have a good story without a good bad guy."
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net An airplane flies in the sky past an American flag in Bay City on Tuesday, March 7, 2012. April_MIP_38 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net An airplane flies in the sky past an American flag in Bay City on Tuesday, March 7, 2012.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Julie White of Midland looks up at magnolias at Dow Gardens in Midland on Wednesday. Walking through the gardens, with the recent warm weather and early blooming flowers, is like taking a walk in mid May. Get a look while you can ÐÐ temperatures below 32 degrees could ruin the flowers for the entire year. April_MIP_37 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Julie White of Midland looks up at magnolias at Dow Gardens in Midland on Wednesday. Walking through the gardens, with the recent warm weather and early blooming flowers, is like taking a walk in mid May. Get a look while you can ÐÐ temperatures below 32 degrees could ruin the flowers for the entire year.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Martha and Roger Briggs, of Sanford, laugh while practicing some East Coat Swing moves at the ÒDancing Under the StarsÓ dinner dance and lesson at the Midland Country Club on Friday. "I like it and he's at the 'I don't mind it' stage," said Martha. The pair have practiced a little in their kitchen, but are fairly new to swing. April_MIP_35 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Martha and Roger Briggs, of Sanford, laugh while practicing some East Coat Swing moves at the ÒDancing Under the StarsÓ dinner dance and lesson at the Midland Country Club on Friday. "I like it and he's at the 'I don't mind it' stage," said Martha. The pair have practiced a little in their kitchen, but are fairly new to swing.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Northwood baserunner Malinda Smith dives back to first base after her teammate's hit was caught during the game against Grand Valley State on Wednesday. April_MIP_34 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Northwood baserunner Malinda Smith dives back to first base after her teammate's hit was caught during the game against Grand Valley State on Wednesday.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Marcus Tomczak of Midland works under his 1951 Chevrolet Half Ton in his driveway on Tuesday. Tomczak, on lunch break from his job as a mechanic at Suderman's Car Care, has been working on restoring the truck for the last seven or eight years, he says. April_MIP_32 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Marcus Tomczak of Midland works under his 1951 Chevrolet Half Ton in his driveway on Tuesday. Tomczak, on lunch break from his job as a mechanic at Suderman's Car Care, has been working on restoring the truck for the last seven or eight years, he says.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Travis Vajcner of Weed Man Lawn Care aerates a lawn in Midland on Thursday. Vajcner has been working for Weed Man Lawn Care for six years. April_MIP_31 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Travis Vajcner of Weed Man Lawn Care aerates a lawn in Midland on Thursday. Vajcner has been working for Weed Man Lawn Care for six years.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Matt Waibel, center, celebrates his first-place win with second place winner Ben Spencer during the ribbon ceremony after their 100-meter freestyle race Saturday during the Special Olympics Regional Aquatics Invitational at the Dow High pool. Volunteer and Knights of Columbus - Blessed Sacrament member Richard Mohr, right, looks on. Athletes, 67 in all, from Midland, Alpena, Roscommon, Caro and Flint competed in various swim events including the backstroke, butterfly, freestyle and relay, to name a few. Winners were announced after every heat as well as an award ceremony where ribbons were given out. The event ended with a lunch for athletes, families and fans. April_MIP_29 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Matt Waibel, center, celebrates his first-place win with second place winner Ben Spencer during the ribbon ceremony after their 100-meter freestyle race Saturday during the Special Olympics Regional Aquatics Invitational at the Dow High pool. Volunteer and Knights of Columbus - Blessed Sacrament member Richard Mohr, right, looks on. Athletes, 67 in all, from Midland, Alpena, Roscommon, Caro and Flint competed in various swim events including the backstroke, butterfly, freestyle and relay, to name a few. Winners were announced after every heat as well as an award ceremony where ribbons were given out. The event ended with a lunch for athletes, families and fans.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Bullock Creek High School junior Lauren Garver, left, paints a flower on her friend senior Amber Frank's shirt as the two, and classmate senior Erika McLean, right, work on a mural Friday inside the adoption room at the Humane Society of Midland County. Bullock Creek High School teacher Dana Murray and 17 students spent the day painting the walls of the adoption room with animal and pet owner themed murals. Murray said she likes to get her students involved in a community project each year and when the humane society contacted her about the murals she knew it was a perfect fit. April_MIP_28 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Bullock Creek High School junior Lauren Garver, left, paints a flower on her friend senior Amber Frank's shirt as the two, and classmate senior Erika McLean, right, work on a mural Friday inside the adoption room at the Humane Society of Midland County. Bullock Creek High School teacher Dana Murray and 17 students spent the day painting the walls of the adoption room with animal and pet owner themed murals. Murray said she likes to get her students involved in a community project each year and when the humane society contacted her about the murals she knew it was a perfect fit.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Church members look on as the main organ console is unloaded from a truck Thursday at the Memorial Presbyterian Church in Midland. Memorial Presbyterian Church is having a new organ installed in their sanctuary. They've been without an organ for a year as it has to be dissembled for renovations in Canada. The organ is scheduled to be ready in May. April_MIP_27 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Church members look on as the main organ console is unloaded from a truck Thursday at the Memorial Presbyterian Church in Midland. Memorial Presbyterian Church is having a new organ installed in their sanctuary. They've been without an organ for a year as it has to be dissembled for renovations in Canada. The organ is scheduled to be ready in May.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Sparty, the mascot at Michigan State University, high fives a student at Woodcrest Elementary on Tuesday as MSU sophomore Erin Lucian looks on. Sparty made the rounds to Chestnut Hill, Plymouth, and Woodcrest promoting reading and leading students in cheers of "Go green, go white!" April_MIP_26 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Sparty, the mascot at Michigan State University, high fives a student at Woodcrest Elementary on Tuesday as MSU sophomore Erin Lucian looks on. Sparty made the rounds to Chestnut Hill, Plymouth, and Woodcrest promoting reading and leading students in cheers of "Go green, go white!"
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net A camper sits upside down on Tuesday on John and Cindy Mikulin's property, who live off M-18 near the Shaffer Road intersection in Coleman. A storm that spawned a tornado hit the area on Monday night, flipping the Mikulin's camper, destroying their barn, and uprooting trees. John Mikulin, who was the only one home at the time of the storm, was not hurt. April_MIP_25 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net A camper sits upside down on Tuesday on John and Cindy Mikulin's property, who live off M-18 near the Shaffer Road intersection in Coleman. A storm that spawned a tornado hit the area on Monday night, flipping the Mikulin's camper, destroying their barn, and uprooting trees. John Mikulin, who was the only one home at the time of the storm, was not hurt.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Mark Kilbreath, left, and his son Brent, check out the damage to a garage on the property of Mark's parents, Floyd and Mary Kilbreath, off Barnes Road on Tuesday in Coleman. A storm that spawned a tornado damaged the area on Monday night. A camper was toppled, trees were uprooted and another structure on the property was damaged by the storm. Floyd and Mary Kilbreath were not hurt and their house suffered minor damage. April_MIP_24 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Mark Kilbreath, left, and his son Brent, check out the damage to a garage on the property of Mark's parents, Floyd and Mary Kilbreath, off Barnes Road on Tuesday in Coleman. A storm that spawned a tornado damaged the area on Monday night. A camper was toppled, trees were uprooted and another structure on the property was damaged by the storm. Floyd and Mary Kilbreath were not hurt and their house suffered minor damage.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Rick Jones, left, talks to the media after their home was damaged by severe winds on Monday evening near Coleman. Rick looked out his garage window while going to his storm cellar and saw his 28-foot trailer completely airborne and blowing across the yard. "The trees were going and that's when she and I dove for the crawl space," said Rick. April_MIP_23 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Rick Jones, left, talks to the media after their home was damaged by severe winds on Monday evening near Coleman. Rick looked out his garage window while going to his storm cellar and saw his 28-foot trailer completely airborne and blowing across the yard. "The trees were going and that's when she and I dove for the crawl space," said Rick.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Lil Joe Burton, a blues trombone player from Chicago, sings a song at Tiz-It in Midland. April_MIP_22 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Lil Joe Burton, a blues trombone player from Chicago, sings a song at Tiz-It in Midland.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Bay City Western's Jake Watz walks off the court following the Warriors' loss to Flint Northwestern in the regional semifinal match at Dow. April_MIP_21 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Bay City Western's Jake Watz walks off the court following the Warriors' loss to Flint Northwestern in the regional semifinal match at Dow.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Freeland's Taryn Taugher, center, battles for the ball with Gladstone's Whitney Wells and Jammie Botruff in the state quarterfinals on Tuesday at Alma College. April_MIP_20 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Freeland's Taryn Taugher, center, battles for the ball with Gladstone's Whitney Wells and Jammie Botruff in the state quarterfinals on Tuesday at Alma College.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Midland's Jennifer Jarema puts her hands to her face after time expired in the Chemics regional final loss to Arthur Hill at Bay City Central. April_MIP_19 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Midland's Jennifer Jarema puts her hands to her face after time expired in the Chemics regional final loss to Arthur Hill at Bay City Central.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Freeland players celebrate beating Gladstone in the state quarterfinals on Tuesday at Alma College. April_MIP_18 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Freeland players celebrate beating Gladstone in the state quarterfinals on Tuesday at Alma College.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net From left, Meridian's Nathan Luptowski, Jacab Ham and Cameron Hobbs leave the court after the Mustang's game against Nouvel Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53. April_MIP_17 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net From left, Meridian's Nathan Luptowski, Jacab Ham and Cameron Hobbs leave the court after the Mustang's game against Nouvel Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Meridian fans cheer during the third quarter of the Mustang's game against Nouvel Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53. April_MIP_16 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Meridian fans cheer during the third quarter of the Mustang's game against Nouvel Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Meridian bench, along with coach Mitch Bohn, center, celebrate Nathan Luptowski's (23) deep 3-pointer at the first half buzzer during the Mustang's game against Nouvel's Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53. April_MIP_15 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net The Meridian bench, along with coach Mitch Bohn, center, celebrate Nathan Luptowski's (23) deep 3-pointer at the first half buzzer during the Mustang's game against Nouvel's Friday at Breckenridge. Nouvel won 56-53.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Bay City Western's Matt Costello celebrates after a dunking the ball against Dow in Friday night's district championship matchup at Mount Pleasant. April_MIP_14 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Bay City Western's Matt Costello celebrates after a dunking the ball against Dow in Friday night's district championship matchup at Mount Pleasant.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Cal Stearns of Midland watches the Midland girls basketball team play against Davison at the regional semifinals at Bay City Central on Tuesday. The Chemics beat Davison 50-44. For a story and more photos, please see SPORTS. April_MIP_13 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Cal Stearns of Midland watches the Midland girls basketball team play against Davison at the regional semifinals at Bay City Central on Tuesday. The Chemics beat Davison 50-44. For a story and more photos, please see SPORTS.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Midland coach Eric Krause yells out orders from the floor in a District semifinal matchup against Bay City Western at Mount Pleasant. April_MIP_12 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Midland coach Eric Krause yells out orders from the floor in a District semifinal matchup against Bay City Western at Mount Pleasant.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Dow bench mobs Malik Garner after the Chargers beat Mount Pleasant 41-40 at Mount Pleasant. April_MIP_11 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Dow bench mobs Malik Garner after the Chargers beat Mount Pleasant 41-40 at Mount Pleasant.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Jessica Walter holds the district championship trophy as she and the Chemics celebrate their victory over Dow Friday at Midland High School. Midland won 44-29. April_MIP_10 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland's Jessica Walter holds the district championship trophy as she and the Chemics celebrate their victory over Dow Friday at Midland High School. Midland won 44-29.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow cheerleader and senior Maggie Craig, left, leans over to kiss 'Prince Charger' before the start of the Chargers district championship game against Midland Friday at Midland High School. Craig said the kiss was for good luck. Midland won the district championship 44-29. April_MIP_09 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow cheerleader and senior Maggie Craig, left, leans over to kiss 'Prince Charger' before the start of the Chargers district championship game against Midland Friday at Midland High School. Craig said the kiss was for good luck. Midland won the district championship 44-29.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Volunteer Roger Libera carries two puppies that were part of a group of animals from the Indiana/Kentucky border into the Humane Society of Midland County on Thursday. April_MIP_08 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Volunteer Roger Libera carries two puppies that were part of a group of animals from the Indiana/Kentucky border into the Humane Society of Midland County on Thursday.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Firefighters work to put out a fire that damaged a home Wednesday off North Jefferson Road. Mills and Larkin Township firefighters responded to the blaze. April_MIP_07 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Firefighters work to put out a fire that damaged a home Wednesday off North Jefferson Road. Mills and Larkin Township firefighters responded to the blaze.
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Eighth graders Kayla McQuinn, 14, left, Katie Domina, 13, Alex Crane, 13, and Kara Dobulis, 13, all laugh after Domina started eating her cupcake, getting frosting all over her mouth as the joked around before eating their lunches Friday during Twin Day at Freeland Middle School. The school encourage sets of friends to dress alike for the festivity. All four girls are best friends, but they split into duos to make it a fun competition. "(McQuinn) and I are blondes. They're the brunettes," Domina said. "We are tutu twin-kies. They call themselves freaks. It's just so much fun dressing up and hanging out at school wearing these outfits." April_MIP_06 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Eighth graders Kayla McQuinn, 14, left, Katie Domina, 13, Alex Crane, 13, and Kara Dobulis, 13, all laugh after Domina started eating her cupcake, getting frosting all over her mouth as the joked around before eating their lunches Friday during Twin Day at Freeland Middle School. The school encourage sets of friends to dress alike for the festivity. All four girls are best friends, but they split into duos to make it a fun competition. "(McQuinn) and I are blondes. They're the brunettes," Domina said. "We are tutu twin-kies. They call themselves freaks. It's just so much fun dressing up and hanging out at school wearing these outfits."
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Tracy Nussear pauses while asking questions about health risks and other property issues during a Midland area soils public meeting Thursday at Central Middle School. Nussear lives in the soils resolution area. April_MIP_05 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Tracy Nussear pauses while asking questions about health risks and other property issues during a Midland area soils public meeting Thursday at Central Middle School. Nussear lives in the soils resolution area.
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Bark on a tree limb cracks open at the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland. April_MIP_04 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Bark on a tree limb cracks open at the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ed Rightor of Midland rights his kayak in a pool in Saginaw on Sunday, Feb. 5, during a pool practice session. The ability to roll the kayak upright in open water is a vital safety technique and Rightor said it took him a full season to master. Last fall Rightor spent six days island hopping in the Apostle Islands in the Upper Peninsula and he is planning a trip to Maine this year. The pool sessions are organized by the East Coast Paddlers and will be at the Buena Vista Community Pool on March 4 and March 18 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information see www.eastcoastpaddlers.com. April_MIP_03 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ed Rightor of Midland rights his kayak in a pool in Saginaw on Sunday, Feb. 5, during a pool practice session. The ability to roll the kayak upright in open water is a vital safety technique and Rightor said it took him a full season to master. Last fall Rightor spent six days island hopping in the Apostle Islands in the Upper Peninsula and he is planning a trip to Maine this year. The pool sessions are organized by the East Coast Paddlers and will be at the Buena Vista Community Pool on March 4 and March 18 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information see www.eastcoastpaddlers.com.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Bullock Creek sophomore Britanie McDaniel, center, takes a breather with her competitive cheer teammates on Thursday during their last team practice. The competitive cheer team placed third in districts and third at the regional competition to qualify for the state final where they placed fifth score of 731.3488. "They came everyday ready to work," head coach Teresa Allen said of her team, noting that the seniors pushed the squad and demonstrated leadership through the season. April_MIP_02 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Bullock Creek sophomore Britanie McDaniel, center, takes a breather with her competitive cheer teammates on Thursday during their last team practice. The competitive cheer team placed third in districts and third at the regional competition to qualify for the state final where they placed fifth score of 731.3488. "They came everyday ready to work," head coach Teresa Allen said of her team, noting that the seniors pushed the squad and demonstrated leadership through the season.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Zach Leonard, 18, of Midland, carries his kayak to the Tittabawassee River's edge on Tuesday. It was Leonard's second time out in the watercraft. The first time he noticed a leak, so he made a repair and tested his work. The Tittabawassee River crested at 20.21 feet after rain on Monday. On Friday at 3:30 p.m. the river was at 15.6 feet. April_MIP_01 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Zach Leonard, 18, of Midland, carries his kayak to the Tittabawassee River's edge on Tuesday. It was Leonard's second time out in the watercraft. The first time he noticed a leak, so he made a repair and tested his work. The Tittabawassee River crested at 20.21 feet after rain on Monday. On Friday at 3:30 p.m. the river was at 15.6 feet.

April 20, 2012 | Categories: Features, Month in Photos, News, Sports | Leave A Comment »

Month in Photos: February

THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Matthew Jarema, younger brother of girls basketball standout Jennifer Jarema, touches the ceiling as the Midland boys play against Flint Northern on Friday, February 17, 2012 at Midland High School. Matthew is an eighth grader and has dreams of playing basketball for the Chemics next season. MIP_feb_01 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Matthew Jarema, younger brother of girls basketball standout Jennifer Jarema, touches the ceiling as the Midland boys play against Flint Northern on Friday, February 17, 2012 at Midland High School. Matthew is an eighth grader and has dreams of playing basketball for the Chemics next season.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Mike Hoy of Midland is set to close Recordings for Recovery, a non-profit he has run since the 1980s. Hoy, who is legally blind after a motorcycle accident in 1971, has dedicated his life to the program, which sends music tapes to people around the country with disabilities. "The program has been really wonderful for me," Hoy said. MIP_feb_02 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Mike Hoy of Midland is set to close Recordings for Recovery, a non-profit he has run since the 1980s. Hoy, who is legally blind after a motorcycle accident in 1971, has dedicated his life to the program, which sends music tapes to people around the country with disabilities. "The program has been really wonderful for me," Hoy said.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Coleman Veterans Memorial, shown in pieces in the photos above, was recently featured in a Reader's Digest Magazine at part of the publication's "We Hear You America" campaign. The memorial features soldiers from the War on Terror, Vietnam, Korean and World War II, and funds are sought so that statues depicting a soldier from World War I and women in the military can be added. MIP_feb_03 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Coleman Veterans Memorial, shown in pieces in the photos above, was recently featured in a Reader's Digest Magazine at part of the publication's "We Hear You America" campaign. The memorial features soldiers from the War on Terror, Vietnam, Korean and World War II, and funds are sought so that statues depicting a soldier from World War I and women in the military can be added.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Russ Helmreich of Hope, left, and Rodney Steele of Midland deliver a calf from Lulu, a Shorthorn cow, at Boulder Clay Farm on Tuesday. The calf was overdue and they made the call to help the pregnancy along. Moments after delivery Lulu nuzzled her calf and started licking her clean. MIP_feb_04 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Russ Helmreich of Hope, left, and Rodney Steele of Midland deliver a calf from Lulu, a Shorthorn cow, at Boulder Clay Farm on Tuesday. The calf was overdue and they made the call to help the pregnancy along. Moments after delivery Lulu nuzzled her calf and started licking her clean.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ryan Crampton, 14, of Midland, cocks his arm back to throw to a friend on Saturday. Crampton found that the ice was thick enough to walk on near the Tridge on the Chippewa River though a few yards away the Tittabawassee River remained ice free. MIP_feb_05 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Ryan Crampton, 14, of Midland, cocks his arm back to throw to a friend on Saturday. Crampton found that the ice was thick enough to walk on near the Tridge on the Chippewa River though a few yards away the Tittabawassee River remained ice free.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Third-year medical student John Evans checks out a newborn in the Maternity Unit at MidMichigan Medical Center - Midland. Evans chose to come to the MSU College of Human Health Midland Regional Campus. Evans, along with two other students shadow physicians in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery and psychiatry. MIP_feb_06 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Third-year medical student John Evans checks out a newborn in the Maternity Unit at MidMichigan Medical Center - Midland. Evans chose to come to the MSU College of Human Health Midland Regional Campus. Evans, along with two other students shadow physicians in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery and psychiatry.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Zumba instructor and Saginaw Valley State University sophomore Haylie Mears, center, is seen from between the legs of fellow student and instructor Allison Babb while the two, along with student instructors Amanda Lacertosa and Heather Duyck, lead a Zumba fitness class of more than 700 people in an attempt to set a new world record for Zumba fitness dancing Wednesday at the Ryder Center on the SVSU campus. The event was put on as part of National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day. SVSU students, faculty, staff and community members participated in the event. The record, which stands at 2012, was not broken. The student instructors each teach Zumba classes as part of SVSUs Cardinal Fitness program. Zumba is a Latin dance inspired workout system. MIP_feb_07 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Zumba instructor and Saginaw Valley State University sophomore Haylie Mears, center, is seen from between the legs of fellow student and instructor Allison Babb while the two, along with student instructors Amanda Lacertosa and Heather Duyck, lead a Zumba fitness class of more than 700 people in an attempt to set a new world record for Zumba fitness dancing Wednesday at the Ryder Center on the SVSU campus. The event was put on as part of National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day. SVSU students, faculty, staff and community members participated in the event. The record, which stands at 2012, was not broken. The student instructors each teach Zumba classes as part of SVSUs Cardinal Fitness program. Zumba is a Latin dance inspired workout system.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Brian Bourdon of Freeland changes the letters of the sign outside of his business, Go Totally Tan, in Midland on Tuesday. Bourdan and his wife, advertising a Valentine's day special, have owned the business since September of last year. MIP_feb_08 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Brian Bourdon of Freeland changes the letters of the sign outside of his business, Go Totally Tan, in Midland on Tuesday. Bourdan and his wife, advertising a Valentine's day special, have owned the business since September of last year.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net STAND Strength Team member Bryan 'Ironman' Dorsey, center, spins while lifting third-graders Braden Harsh, left, and Demond Shaw, right, over his head on a bar during an anti-bullying assembly Thursday at Floyd Elementary. Fellow members T.A. 'Shrek' Nalian, far right, and Daniel 'Bam-Bam' Cooper look on. Members of the STAND Strength Team showed off their physical power by participating in various strength stunts like bar bending, bat breaking and log lifting, to name a few. In addition to their stunts, the members of STAND offered positive messages to the students, like anti-bullying, anti-drugs, self esteem and respect for others. MIP_feb_09 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net STAND Strength Team member Bryan 'Ironman' Dorsey, center, spins while lifting third-graders Braden Harsh, left, and Demond Shaw, right, over his head on a bar during an anti-bullying assembly Thursday at Floyd Elementary. Fellow members T.A. 'Shrek' Nalian, far right, and Daniel 'Bam-Bam' Cooper look on. Members of the STAND Strength Team showed off their physical power by participating in various strength stunts like bar bending, bat breaking and log lifting, to name a few. In addition to their stunts, the members of STAND offered positive messages to the students, like anti-bullying, anti-drugs, self esteem and respect for others.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Hemlock's Ryan Hagarty, center reaches for the ball as Evan Marquardt, left, TJ Vondette, center left, and Parrish Terburgh, right, look on. MIP_feb_10 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Hemlock's Ryan Hagarty, center reaches for the ball as Evan Marquardt, left, TJ Vondette, center left, and Parrish Terburgh, right, look on.
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Dow's Rick Knoff, left, leapt into the arms of his older brother Joey Knoff, who laughs as they celebrate Dow taking first place and the championship trophy at the Tri-City Invitational on Saturday afternoon at Bay City Western High School. Dow won with a combined 362 team points, more than 140 points higher than second place Bay City Central. MIP_feb_11 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Dow's Rick Knoff, left, leapt into the arms of his older brother Joey Knoff, who laughs as they celebrate Dow taking first place and the championship trophy at the Tri-City Invitational on Saturday afternoon at Bay City Western High School. Dow won with a combined 362 team points, more than 140 points higher than second place Bay City Central.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Dow High swim team lines up before the playing of the National Anthem at Dow High School on Monday before their swim meet against Midland High. MIP_feb_12 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Dow High swim team lines up before the playing of the National Anthem at Dow High School on Monday before their swim meet against Midland High.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net A spectator walks into the Midland High School gym on Saturday, February 18, 2012 for the Chemics girls basketball home game against Traverse City Central. MIP_feb_13 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net A spectator walks into the Midland High School gym on Saturday, February 18, 2012 for the Chemics girls basketball home game against Traverse City Central.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow Midland during the period Monday at Midland Civic Arena. Dow beat Midland 5-4 in the state hockey tournament and will face Heritage next. MIP_feb_14 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Dow Midland during the period Monday at Midland Civic Arena. Dow beat Midland 5-4 in the state hockey tournament and will face Heritage next.
LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Destiny Kerns, 10, of Midland, watches as her mother, Cherie Kerns, fixes her hair, waiting her turn to sing the national anthem for Mid-Michigan's Got Talent on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Dow Diamond. MIP_feb_15 LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Destiny Kerns, 10, of Midland, watches as her mother, Cherie Kerns, fixes her hair, waiting her turn to sing the national anthem for Mid-Michigan's Got Talent on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at Dow Diamond.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Rick Bergstein of Midland hands his grandson, Ethan, 7, a ballot to put together before giving it to a voter at Woodcrest Elementary on Tuesday. Ethan has worked with his grandfather in prior elections and says that he enjoys helping out. Rick has volunteered for the past five years. MIP_feb_16 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Rick Bergstein of Midland hands his grandson, Ethan, 7, a ballot to put together before giving it to a voter at Woodcrest Elementary on Tuesday. Ethan has worked with his grandfather in prior elections and says that he enjoys helping out. Rick has volunteered for the past five years.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Midland High School's Kaila Smith, from left, Melody O'Neal, and Grace Kendall react to the judges compliments during their critique session after their performance of "Quilters" at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association High School State One-Act Competition at Dexter High School on Friday. The judges showered them with praise for the acting, music, lighting and overall production value of the show. They received a standing ovation after their performance and placed first in the state. MIP_feb_17 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Midland High School's Kaila Smith, from left, Melody O'Neal, and Grace Kendall react to the judges compliments during their critique session after their performance of "Quilters" at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association High School State One-Act Competition at Dexter High School on Friday. The judges showered them with praise for the acting, music, lighting and overall production value of the show. They received a standing ovation after their performance and placed first in the state.
NATHAN MORGAN | for the Daily News Mixing snow with dirt, Carl Parsons Jr., 7, does doughnuts in the front yard of his home in Sanford on Saturday. Parsons, who has been riding since he was 4-years-old, received his quad, a Kawasaki 185, as a Christmas present from his parents. Since then Parsons has been riding circles in the family's yard every chance he gets. "He told me yesterday when he was doin' doughnuts that he thought he was gonna barf," said Parson's mother, Amber Mosher. MIP_feb_18 NATHAN MORGAN | for the Daily News Mixing snow with dirt, Carl Parsons Jr., 7, does doughnuts in the front yard of his home in Sanford on Saturday. Parsons, who has been riding since he was 4-years-old, received his quad, a Kawasaki 185, as a Christmas present from his parents. Since then Parsons has been riding circles in the family's yard every chance he gets. "He told me yesterday when he was doin' doughnuts that he thought he was gonna barf," said Parson's mother, Amber Mosher.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Mamie Thorns spreads out pecans on a table next to her pecan pie samples during the Taste of Soul event at Saginaw Valley State University. Black faculty and staff were on hand sharing some of their favorite soul food recipes with the community as part of Black History month. "This is a way for different cultures to come together," event coordinator Thorns said. "It's fellowship. It's friendship." MIP_feb_19 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Mamie Thorns spreads out pecans on a table next to her pecan pie samples during the Taste of Soul event at Saginaw Valley State University. Black faculty and staff were on hand sharing some of their favorite soul food recipes with the community as part of Black History month. "This is a way for different cultures to come together," event coordinator Thorns said. "It's fellowship. It's friendship."
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Registered Dental Hygienist Becky Johnson uses a hand mirror in one hand to see and help hold open the mouth as she cleans the teeth of Jesse McDonald of Midland, a Windover High School senior, on Friday morning at Knight Dental Care in Midland during "Give Kids a Smile Day," which occurs the first Friday of February as thousands of the nation's dentists and their dental team members provide free oral health care services to children from low-income families across the U.S. Ted Knight and his team are participating for the fourth-straight year. This was McDonald's first-ever dental appointment and cleaning. "It was way easier than I thought it would be," McDonald said. "Everyone said it was going to be tough. It's not like what I've seen on TV. ... Honestly, this is easier than everything else I've ever done in my life. This is even easier than playing Mario." MIP_feb_20 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Registered Dental Hygienist Becky Johnson uses a hand mirror in one hand to see and help hold open the mouth as she cleans the teeth of Jesse McDonald of Midland, a Windover High School senior, on Friday morning at Knight Dental Care in Midland during "Give Kids a Smile Day," which occurs the first Friday of February as thousands of the nation's dentists and their dental team members provide free oral health care services to children from low-income families across the U.S. Ted Knight and his team are participating for the fourth-straight year. This was McDonald's first-ever dental appointment and cleaning. "It was way easier than I thought it would be," McDonald said. "Everyone said it was going to be tough. It's not like what I've seen on TV. ... Honestly, this is easier than everything else I've ever done in my life. This is even easier than playing Mario."
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Nathan Wernette of Mt. Pleasant and Henry Fisher of Midland scrape the floor at B-Xtreme Cycle & Sport while Blade, shop owner Todd Atkinson's dog, gets in the mix on Friday. "She is the greeter," Atkinson said of Blade who comes to the shop with him and his wife Julia. MIP_feb_21 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Nathan Wernette of Mt. Pleasant and Henry Fisher of Midland scrape the floor at B-Xtreme Cycle & Sport while Blade, shop owner Todd Atkinson's dog, gets in the mix on Friday. "She is the greeter," Atkinson said of Blade who comes to the shop with him and his wife Julia.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Hazel Weymouth, center, 100 years old, signs a fake 100 dollar bill with her photo in the center for Terri Dulude's second grade class at Chestnut Hill School in Midland on Wednesday. Weymouth was invited to speak to the class to celebrate the 100th Day of school, which is Friday. MIP_feb_22 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Hazel Weymouth, center, 100 years old, signs a fake 100 dollar bill with her photo in the center for Terri Dulude's second grade class at Chestnut Hill School in Midland on Wednesday. Weymouth was invited to speak to the class to celebrate the 100th Day of school, which is Friday.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Attorney Magistrate Stephen I. Houseal talks to Steven Turner, 20, of Midland at a show cause hearing during which Turner was given the chance to resolve his outstanding debt to the court. Turner owes a total of $1,300 on three different cases. MIP_feb_23 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Attorney Magistrate Stephen I. Houseal talks to Steven Turner, 20, of Midland at a show cause hearing during which Turner was given the chance to resolve his outstanding debt to the court. Turner owes a total of $1,300 on three different cases.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Melanie Oudin of the United States serves the ball to StŽphanie Foretz Gacon of France during the feature match on Tuesday at the Dow Corning Tennis Classic in the Midland Community Tennis Center. Oudin lost to Foretz Gacon 7-6(6), 6-2. MIP_feb_24 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Melanie Oudin of the United States serves the ball to StŽphanie Foretz Gacon of France during the feature match on Tuesday at the Dow Corning Tennis Classic in the Midland Community Tennis Center. Oudin lost to Foretz Gacon 7-6(6), 6-2.
NATHAN MORGAN | for the Daily News Olga Govortsova, of Belarus, reacts after upsetting her opponent Magdalena Rybarikova, of Slovakia, and winning the Dow Corning Tennis Classic singles’ championship match with a third-set tiebreaker, Sunday at the Midland Community Tennis Center. Rybarikova held three match games, but Govortsova managed to come away as the DCTC singles champion with a 6-3, 6-7 (6), 7-6 (5) victory. MIP_feb_25 NATHAN MORGAN | for the Daily News Olga Govortsova, of Belarus, reacts after upsetting her opponent Magdalena Rybarikova, of Slovakia, and winning the Dow Corning Tennis Classic singles’ championship match with a third-set tiebreaker, Sunday at the Midland Community Tennis Center. Rybarikova held three match games, but Govortsova managed to come away as the DCTC singles champion with a 6-3, 6-7 (6), 7-6 (5) victory.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood Wayne State during the second half Wednesday at Matthaei Athletic Building on the Wayne State University campus. won the GLIAC quarterfinal game -. MIP_feb_26 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Northwood Wayne State during the second half Wednesday at Matthaei Athletic Building on the Wayne State University campus. won the GLIAC quarterfinal game -.
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Jennifer Gracey of Midland leads a group stretch during a fitness class she teaches Feb. 8 at Pure Barre in Midland. Gracey is pregnant with her husband Benjamin Gracey's child, something she found out one week after he deployed for training to prepare for his tour in Afghanistan, which started Jan. 7. He's expected back in October, while the baby is due mid-June. "It was such a huge blessing when I found out I was pregnant," she said. "Now, I have a piece of my husband here with me every day while he is away." MIP_feb_27 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Jennifer Gracey of Midland leads a group stretch during a fitness class she teaches Feb. 8 at Pure Barre in Midland. Gracey is pregnant with her husband Benjamin Gracey's child, something she found out one week after he deployed for training to prepare for his tour in Afghanistan, which started Jan. 7. He's expected back in October, while the baby is due mid-June. "It was such a huge blessing when I found out I was pregnant," she said. "Now, I have a piece of my husband here with me every day while he is away."
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Flint Northern basketball team celebrates in it's locker room after a last second two-point win against Midland at Midland High School on Friday, February 17, 2012. MIP_feb_28 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net The Flint Northern basketball team celebrates in it's locker room after a last second two-point win against Midland at Midland High School on Friday, February 17, 2012.
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Left to right, Bill Wegener, Scott Johnson, Carolyn Wegener and Marjie Johnson look at a photo they just took of themselves in front of a bus on tour for the Susan B. Anthony List, a major anti-abortion advocacy group that has endorsed Rick Santorum for president. The bus made a stop in Midland on Monday at the Bob Evans restaurant. MIP_feb_29 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Left to right, Bill Wegener, Scott Johnson, Carolyn Wegener and Marjie Johnson look at a photo they just took of themselves in front of a bus on tour for the Susan B. Anthony List, a major anti-abortion advocacy group that has endorsed Rick Santorum for president. The bus made a stop in Midland on Monday at the Bob Evans restaurant.
JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Diane Burwick of Coleman, center, smiles as kindergarten teacher Nicole Howdyshell of Clare gives her a hug for helping sort through homework and other notes for all of the elementary school teachers in to file folders for their classes Friday morning at Coleman Elementary School. Burwick has volunteered at the school for about 12 years, making all of the copies for teachers, as well as helping with programs with students throughout the year. "We can spend less time on copies and sorting through papers and more time with classroom activities and all of the children because Diane does so much for each teacher here," Howdyshell said. Lisa Noack, a third-grade teacher, said Burwick is invaluable to the school, and cannot be replaced. "I can't imagine trying to handle all of the work without her," said Noack, who has worked alongside Burwick's volnteer spirit for 10 years. "She's priceless. I never want her to leave." MIP_feb_30 JAKE MAY | for the Daily News Diane Burwick of Coleman, center, smiles as kindergarten teacher Nicole Howdyshell of Clare gives her a hug for helping sort through homework and other notes for all of the elementary school teachers in to file folders for their classes Friday morning at Coleman Elementary School. Burwick has volunteered at the school for about 12 years, making all of the copies for teachers, as well as helping with programs with students throughout the year. "We can spend less time on copies and sorting through papers and more time with classroom activities and all of the children because Diane does so much for each teacher here," Howdyshell said. Lisa Noack, a third-grade teacher, said Burwick is invaluable to the school, and cannot be replaced. "I can't imagine trying to handle all of the work without her," said Noack, who has worked alongside Burwick's volnteer spirit for 10 years. "She's priceless. I never want her to leave."
THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Meridian's Chase Robinson wrestles Pine River's Jordan Stone at Meridian on Wednesday. MIP_feb_31 THOMAS SIMONETTI | tsimonetti@mdn.net Meridian's Chase Robinson wrestles Pine River's Jordan Stone at Meridian on Wednesday.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Carl Fodo, 8, left, wheels his new bike out of the Dow Employees Credit Union as his brother Austin, 9, follows behind on Monday. MIP_feb_32 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Carl Fodo, 8, left, wheels his new bike out of the Dow Employees Credit Union as his brother Austin, 9, follows behind on Monday.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Regina Sasse of Midland, center, dances with her caregiver Sue Poellmann on Thursday at the People First of Midland Valentine's Day Dance at the Midland Country Club. Poellmann has been taking care of Sasse for the past 18 years and said that Sasse enjoys dancing, especially when Poellmann spins her around. Over 100 people attended the annual dance. MIP_feb_33 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Regina Sasse of Midland, center, dances with her caregiver Sue Poellmann on Thursday at the People First of Midland Valentine's Day Dance at the Midland Country Club. Poellmann has been taking care of Sasse for the past 18 years and said that Sasse enjoys dancing, especially when Poellmann spins her around. Over 100 people attended the annual dance.
NICK KING | nking@mdn.net NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland Circuit Court Judge Michael Beale (grey sport coat), Midland County Circuit Judge Jonathan Lauderbach, defense attorney Dan Duke (no coat) and prosecutor Angelina Scarpelli, talk to parents of Jefferson Middle School 8th graders about a presentation they will be making to the 8th graders at school about what constitutes criminal sexual conduct Wednesday in the Jefferson Middle School auditorium. The prosecutor's staff and judges do the presentation with all 8th graders in Midland County and have done it for several years. MIP_feb_34 NICK KING | nking@mdn.net NICK KING | nking@mdn.net Midland Circuit Court Judge Michael Beale (grey sport coat), Midland County Circuit Judge Jonathan Lauderbach, defense attorney Dan Duke (no coat) and prosecutor Angelina Scarpelli, talk to parents of Jefferson Middle School 8th graders about a presentation they will be making to the 8th graders at school about what constitutes criminal sexual conduct Wednesday in the Jefferson Middle School auditorium. The prosecutor's staff and judges do the presentation with all 8th graders in Midland County and have done it for several years.
LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Members of the Midland Symphony Orchestra rehearse on Tuesday, February 15, 2012 at the Midland Center for the Arts auditorium. MIP_feb_35 LIBBY MARCH | for the Daily News Members of the Midland Symphony Orchestra rehearse on Tuesday, February 15, 2012 at the Midland Center for the Arts auditorium.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Meridian girls' basketball team listen to head coach Andy LaFave at halftime during the game against Nouvel on Wednesday at Merrill High School. Meridian lost 51-36. MIP_feb_36 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net The Meridian girls' basketball team listen to head coach Andy LaFave at halftime during the game against Nouvel on Wednesday at Merrill High School. Meridian lost 51-36.
NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Dan Hench of Midland, center, and Paul MacNeil, right, stand outside of Midland Cinema on Friday after walking through the cinema and posing for pictures with fans. MIP_feb_37 NEIL BLAKE | nblake@mdn.net Dan Hench of Midland, center, and Paul MacNeil, right, stand outside of Midland Cinema on Friday after walking through the cinema and posing for pictures with fans.

March 2, 2012 | Categories: Features, Month in Photos, News, Sports | Leave A Comment »

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