Looking Back – December 2018
by Diane Rockall
December 1968 the Stockbridge village iron removal plant became operational greatly improving the quality and taste of village water according to those interviewed. The postmaster Elmer Lehman encouraged early mailing for the Christmas holidays. Santa arrived at the “Stockbridge Ambulance Building” on Dec. 7, sponsored by area businesses. Stockbridge First Baptist Church had a 26-member Grand Rapids group of singers on Dec. 8.
Communities like Munith, Unadilla, Gregory, Millville and Fitchburg provided occasional update columns on activities in their communities. The Town Crier announced early in the month that the Stockbridge Schools’ three lunchrooms served 1000 turkey dinners on the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving. Area farmers noted an excellent corn harvest.
Consumers Energy offered a $500 reward for any individual caught damaging power lines. Nancy McKim Collins was killed in an automobile crash on M106. Later in the month the Stockbridge Education Association established a scholarship in her memory.
Schools closed for the Christmas holidays on Dec. 20 and were scheduled to reopen on January 6. Over 1000 community members attended the Dec. 16 Christmas concert at the high school. Munith’s Katz Elementary installed flasher signs on M106. Area agencies provided holiday packages for 40 area needy families. Stockbridge Council Members got a pay hike. Announcement was made that flu was circulating locally.
In December 1978 Ingham County announced plans for an $8.5 million jail improvement. Two local minors were charged with a crime spree, including car theft and robbery.
The high school scheduled its holiday concert for Dec. 10. Exchange student Ola Tybrand finished in the top 5 percent in the 22ndannual Michigan Mathematics Prize competition. Stockbridge Quiz Bowl team defeated Napoleon on WKAR Quiz Bowl. The team consisted of Jeff Massey, Terry Dancer, Joe Jurken, Lance Goodlock, and Don Hurst.
Schools announced a new plan that would use radio to announce inclement weather school closings. Mid month Caskey Furniture was sold to new owners from Garden City, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smart. Fire destroyed Johnny Cole’s house.
The Town Crier increased its price to 25 cents per issue. The telephone company relocated, as did the Town Crier. Santa visited the Township Hall on Dec. 23, sponsored by the Jaycees. Steve Mullins, age 12 from Gregory, finished as one of the top Moto-cross riders in Michigan. Abbott & Fillmore and Bob’s Ford provided books to students on the last day of school before the holiday recess.
Diane Rockall is an SCN board member
