Adam Bragenzer

George's Gorgeous Garages owner Mike George kicked of JTV's "Messiest Garage Contest" with a call for entries into this year's contest.  One winner will recieve an extreme garage makeover courtesy of George's Gorgeous Garages.  VIewers are encouraged to submit entries here.  Other guests:  State Representative Mike Shirkey;  Singer-Guitarist Steve Berkemeier;  a visit to Artsy Fartsy Marketplace and Ella Downtown;  Movies reviews with Dave DeBaker;  Ric Walton, The Walton Insurance Group.

The Jackson Area Transportation Authority's Simon Foster and Jackson Police Deputy Chief John Holda are partnering with sponsors (JTV, M-Live, Rave Associates, Jackson County Substance Abuse Coalition) to present the New Year's Eve Shuttle.  Partiers will be able to call and reserve a ride home on New Year's Eve from 11pm to 4am.  Complete details and phone number will be available the week before on the JATA website.  Other guests:  Jeff Matzen, "Money Matters", Matzen Financial;  Steve Shotwell, Miller's Shoes;  Tim Bos, Jackson Antique Mall;  Randy LeMaster, The Chase Sports Bar; Joe Wolfe, Jackson Kiwanis annual newspaper sale (December 12).

Carolyn Bloodworth, Secretary-Treasurer of Consumers Energy Foundation reported the company's 2014 Jackson County United Way campaign set a new record of more than $750,000 pledged by Consumers Energy employees and retirees. Matched by a corporate gift of $200,000, a total of $950,000 was raised through contributions and various fundraisers.  Carolyn noted the company employees' volunteer contributions were numerous in 2014, aiding the United Way and many other charities and non-profits.  Other guests:  Mary Jo Kennedy, Criminal Justice Program Administrator, Jackson College;  Paulo DeCola, Gold Crown Jewelers;  Capital City Brass Band Tuba Quartet;  a tour of Anna's Unique Gifts with Keith Kusterer;  Sue Lovell, Cascades Humane Society Pet of the Week.

Jackson Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Beal announced this month's "Power of One" honorees, including Middle School at Parkside science teacher Dawn Wagner.  Other guests:  David Schultz, Assistant Conductor, Jackson Symphony Orchestra;  Phil Wrzesinski, "Toys of the Month", The Toy House;  Singer Kim Conant;  Elaine Crosby, Jackson Area Catholic Schools;  Lori Pelham, "Christmas in the City" Cabaret Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at the Ella Sharp Museum Community Room.

Dea Talmage, Senior Development Officer, Allegiance Health Foundation reported Allegiance Health's board has decided to let the exclusivity agreement with the University of Michigan Health Systems expire.  The two health systems announced last December their intent to explore a merger.   Hospital officials plan an announcement with further details on Tuesday.   Allegiance Health Foundation will be hosting their annual "Lights of Love" this Thursday at 6pm at the main entrance.  Jill Yehl, Annual Fund Officer says "Lights" may still be purchased to honor loved ones.  Proceeds from the event will benefit Allegiance Hospice.  Vocal Dimensions from Northwest High School will perform and refreshments will be served.  Other guests:  Jackson College Vice President of Administration Cindy Allen;  Singer-guitarist Ian Stewart;  Justin Shuberg, Walt's Health Foods'  Rev. Melvin Hitchens, Pastor, Community AME Church;  Bob Dubois and Jim Cavender, Jackson Host Lions Club's Annual Nut Sale.  Lions Club members will be at Jackson Crossing the next two weekends staffing a booth.