2019 Holiday Edition by Hearst Midwest

2019

NOVEMBER 2019 A Special Supplement to

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Manistee museums to celebrate the holidays MANISTEE — The Christmas season is all about tradition and heritage, and Manistee has a lot of it. This year, the City of Manistee is marking its sesquicentennial. As a continuation of its yearlong celebration, the Manistee County Historical Museum's annual Christmas display will be Wintertime in the City — a special exhibit of photos displaying the winter seasons in the City of Manistee over the last 150 years. "This has been important year for our city's history so we decided what better way to cover 150 years worth of history than by having an exhibit of photographs taken from our archives," said museum executive director Mark Fedder. Over the years, the museum staff has presented many exhibits during the holidays that show the various heritages and customs of the people of Manistee County. Each one is unique in that they bring to life through exhibits, stories and pictures the way people from this area celebrated Christmas in the past. This year's exhibit also will feature photographs of buildings, people, fires and various events that have transpired in Manistee throughout the years. These photos are curated from the museum's vast archives. "So this year there will be the usual trees and such but more focused on photos from our collection with lots of those photos depicting winter time in the city," said Fedder. The museum director said that people should note the museum will be open extended hours during the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend. "We will be holding our regular hours during the month of December and will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year's Eve and New Year's Day," said Fedder. "Our regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m." The museum is located at 425 River St. in Manistee. Admission is $1 per student, $3 per adult and $8 per family. For more information, call (231) 7235531. Another part of Manistee's heritage, the Old Kirke Museum is housed the oldest Danish Lutheran Church building in America. During Victorian Sleighbell

The sanctuary of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church will have a Christmas tree representing each of the Scandinavian countries decorated in the traditional manner of each country during its Scandinavian Christmas Open House. (News Advocate File Photo)

Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, the museum will hold a Scandinavian Christmas Open House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 8. Along with the traditionally decorated sanctuary, the Old Kirke Museum will have an exhibit of Christmas villages and the Madsen Lumbering Dioramas on display in the lower exhibit hall. The sanctuary of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church will have a Christmas tree representing each of the Scandinavian countries — Denmark, Sweden and Norway — and Scandinavian treats will be served alongside Danish Jule Aften plates, a tradition since the 19th century when it became customary at Christmastime for the wealthy to give their servants platters piled high with good things to eat. In 1893 the first porcelain one was manufactured, and on Christmas Eve the mold for that year's plate was broken, a tradition that continues to this day. These Christmas platters were then hung on the walls of the servants’ cottages and soon began to be coveted.

The Manistee County Historical Museum's annual Christmas display will be Wintertime in the City — a special exhibit of photos displaying the winter seasons in the City of Manistee over the last 150 years. (News Advocate File Photo)

The Old Kirke Museum is located at 304 Walnut St.in Manistee.

For more information, contact at oldkirkemuseum@gmail.com.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Nothing says Christmas like school holiday programs

Bear Lake elementary students perform at the 2018 Christmas sing. This year they will hold their performance at 7 p.m. on Dec. 16. (News Advocate File Photo)

The annual Christmas school sing is always fun at all of the elementary schools. The events feature lots of classic songs and favorites that make everyone want to sing along. (News Advocate File Photo)

be enjoying the chance to get into the holiday spirit, according to principal Jake Veith. “Our band concert is at 6 p.m. on Dec. 10 in the Nothing brings more life into a school building this cafetorium and the elementary Christmas sing-a-long is time of the year than the sound of holiday music. at the same time and location on Dec. 17,” said Veith. Sometimes it is in the form of young elementary Brenna Richardson serves as band director at both voices singing their hearts out while dozens of parents Bear Lake and Kaleva Norman Dickson schools and she and grandparents proudly take pictures or video of the also is a facing a busy week of concerts. event. Other times it is the sounds of the bands keeping “At Bear Lake we are performing our holiday band an auditorium or gymnasium full of people’s toes concert at 7 p.m. on Dec.12 in the lower gymnasium,” tapping to the beat. said Richardson. “We are playing a variety of popular This year the Manistee Area Public Schools and traditional Christmas songs. The kids enjoy the elementary programs will once again be under the pop songs quite a bit like ‘Grandma Got Ran Over By a direction of music teacher/choir director Amanda Reindeer’ and ‘How the Grinch stole Christmas.’ They Feyen. She is planning some exciting programs that also enjoy the more traditional carols. It really gets feature lots of student involvement in their singing that everybody into the holiday spirit.” is sure to put a smile on the face of everyone watching Principal Sarah Harless said the elementary it. There is also a possibility for a visit from a white students will be celebrating with their holiday sing at bearded man in a red suit sometime during the evening. 7 p.m. on Dec. 16. She added that they turn it into a The kindergarten students open the season up at memorable event every year for the students and their 6 p.m. on Dec. 9 at the Manistee Middle/High School families. auditorium. That will be followed at 7 p.m by the second “We go all out to get in the festive spirit for this grade students taking to the stage for their performance. event,” said Harless. “We ‘Deck the Halls’ with winter First grade students get their chance the following night, and Christmas art and instead of hanging it from a tree, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. and right behind them will be the third grade students. Kennedy Elementary School principal Kevin Schumtzler said the holiday concerts are always everyone’s favorite. “Our music teacher, Ms. Feyen, has been preparing our students for our upcoming concerts, which promises to bring a smile to everyone’s face,” said Schmutzler. “Hearing the kids’ voices and seeing them in their Christmas colors is the best way to prepare for the holiday season. I am so blessed to be an elementary principal and see the preparation and excitement that goes into putting this annual show on stage.” Schmutzler said the students look forward to the music. “The kids get so excited for this,” said Schmutzler. Directed by “You might even hear us singing some of these songs as Carol Burba & we walk in the Sleighbell Parade too.” Paula Laws On Dec. 11 the fourth grade will open the evening at 6 p.m. at the middle/high school auditorium and Dec. 6, 7, 13 & 14, 2019 at 7:30pm they will be followed up at 7 p.m. with a concert by the Manistee Middle/High School Choir under the direction Dec. 8 & 15, 2019 at 2pm of Feyen. at the Manistee High School Auditorium Manistee Area Public Schools director of bands Andrea Mack and her band members will be facing a TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR busy schedule during the holiday season. OR BY CALLING: 231-723-7188 On Dec.16 the Manistee Middle/High School www.manisteecivicplayers.org auditorium will be the location of the 7 p.m. holiday concert by the fifth and sixth grade bands. That will be Underwritten by: followed by a 7 p.m. concert on Dec. 17 by the seventh, eighth and high school bands. “We plan to play a combination of the traditional holiday songs and some other music,” said Mack. Students at Kaleva Norman Dickson Schools will

By KEN GRABOWSKI Associate Editor

it all hangs from the ceiling, running from our entrance to the gym where the concert is held. The students love showing off their art work to their family members before and after the concert.” There also is a visit from some special visitors complete with tasty treats. “Mrs. Claus’ Cookie Express is also available to families,” said Harless. “Our high school students run a fundraiser of delicious baked goods before and after the concert. The school has such a homie feeling plus the caroling from our students. It’s like a Laker Family Christmas.” Trinity Lutheran School students will be holding their annual Advent Service at the church at 7 p.m. on Dec. 18. Tina Fisk said it is a long standing tradition that celebrates the true spirit of the holiday season. “The students will be singing songs, doing Bible readings and recitations during the program,” said Fisk. Students at Manistee Catholic Central will be ringing in the holiday season at 6 p.m. on Dec. 10 with a holiday sing/concert at the school gymnasium. This will include students from the preschool on up to the 12th grade who will be performing. Onekama Consolidated Schools will be holding their holiday band concert at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 12 in the cafetorium. Elementary school students will be singing lots of holiday favorites at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 18 in the high school gymnasium.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

The Choral Society members wear Victorian dress during their annual Victorian Christmas Concert. This year's event is slated for 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the First Congregational Church. (News Advocate File Photo)

Manistee Choral Society to perform 61st annual Christmas concert From Staff Reports MANISTEE — The Manistee Choral Society’s annual Christmas Concert is set to perform for a 61th year. The Victorian Christmas Concert will include carols and other songs of the season performed by the 45 voice choir. The concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the First Congregational Church, located at 412 S. Fourth St. in Manistee. Director Carol Voigts conducts the chorus while Carrie Selbee is the accompanist for the program. The choir is currently in preparation for a glorious program to help begin the Manistee Christmas season and the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Chirstmas Weekend. The In Vogue Brass, under the direction of Joy Smith, will be joining with the choir for an opening number as well as providing selections prior to the choir performance and at intermission. Clarinetist Melinda Pokorzynski and flutist Carol Brand Twa will be featured on selections with the

choir The choral society has enjoyed singing together for all those 61 years. Some of the current members were in that first concert in 1958 as high school students. The founder of the group was Virginia Caro, long-time choral director of the Manistee High School vocal music program. Their Victorian concert venue was created in 1992 as a way to collaborate with the Manistee Sleighbell weekend and was first an elaborate Victorian dinner cooked and served by the choir members as well as the concert. As the group has aged, these activities pared down to a more manageable afterconcert reception of dainty Victorian finger delights, accompanied by wassail, coffee and tea. Over the years Caro continued to direct the choir even after her retirement from teaching. Mert Youngberg assisted in the directing at times, and when Carol Voigts, one of the original singers in

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Canine Josie carefully watches rehearsal accompanist Joy Smith to see if she's on the right page in the music. The Manistee Choral Society is preparing for its annual Christmas Concert. (Courtesy photo)

the Choral Society, moved back to the region, she stepped in as director. Voigts was the director of both the White Lake Chorale and the White Lake Madrigals in Whitehall/Montague. Though she now lives again in the Muskegon area, she continues to journey north for Monday rehearsals. Joy Smith has served as rehearsal accompanist in recent years. The Victorian Christmas Concert originally was held at the historic Victorian-style Congregational Church and after performing over the years at several other churches, has now returned to this venue. The stained glass windows and the acoustics of the sanctuary add to the ambiance of the event. The Choral Society members are involved in every aspect of this

gala evening, from weekly rehearsals beginning in September, to baking the Victorian cookies as well as multiple other duties involved in making this a memorable event. One of the charming features of the concert is the Victorian costumes that are worn by the choral members. Wassail, 19th century butter tarts, Turkish Delight and many more morsels from authentic Victorian recipes add to the ambiance of the evening's ending reception. Tickets are available at (231) 7237536 or at Goody's on River Street. There is a $10 donation. There is always a sellout crowd. Those who are unable to pick up their tickets may contact Shirley Harden at (231) 723-7536 for information and to purchase tickets.

Six things to help evergreens through winter By Melinda Myers Guest Columnist Prepare your evergreens now before winter weather takes its toll on your boxwood, arborvitae and rhododendrons. Winter wind, sun, frozen soil, snow and ice can wreak havoc on our plants, especially evergreens. Water plants, especially evergreens and new plantings, thoroughly before the ground freezes. Evergreens continue to lose moisture throughout the winter even when the soil is frozen or dry. Apply a layer of mulch to the soil under and around trees and shrubs or freshen existing mulch. A two- to three-inch layer of woodchips or shredded bark insulates roots from temperature extremes, conserves moisture, suppresses weeds during the growing season and improves the soil as it breaks down in the future. Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk of trees and stems of shrubs. Shelter evergreens from winter winds and sun that increase moisture lost through evergreen needles and leaves. Broadleaf evergreens like rhododendrons and boxwoods are most susceptible and benefit from shelter when planted

in exposed locations. Create an attractive winter shelter with one of the commercially available winterizing products or build your own. Use a bit of decorative fencing or recycle a locally grown Christmas tree to cast a bit of shade and block the wind. Christmas tree windbreaks also add greenery to the winter landscape and shelter for visiting birds. Loosely tie together stems of upright arborvitae, junipers and yew hedges subject to heavy snow and ice loads. As the snow and ice pile on, it can cause these plants to split. The shrubs often recover in spring, but years of repeated damage can eventually disfigure these plants. Use strips of cotton to loosely tie the multiple stems together so the snow rolls off the plant. Or wrap the whole shrub or hedge in bird netting. The netting blends in with the foliage so the plants are secure and still add beauty to the winter landscape. The netting also helps discourage hungry wildlife. Install fencing, apply repellents or enlist scare tactics to reduce the risk of damage from hungry animals. Applying wildlife protection before critters start feeding increases

your chance of success. Monitor plantings for damage, adjust as needed and consider using a combination of animal protections. Delay major pruning until the worst of winter weather has passed. The inner needles and leaves of evergreens have been sheltered by the outer layer of growth. Removing the outermost growth in fall exposes the tender inner growth to the harsh weather, increasing the risk of winter damage. It’s better to wait until early spring to shape, if needed, while correcting any winter damage. A few hours spent preparing evergreens for winter now can save you hours repairing damage next spring and money spent on replacement plants. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses How to Grow Anything DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV and radio segments. Myers’ website, www. MelindaMyers.com, features gardening videos, podcasts, audio tips and monthly gardening checklists.

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Sparkle in the Park to light up Bear Lake once again By Michelle Graves Managing Editor BEAR LAKE — Sparkle in the Park has grown so much over its existence, that this year it will not only take up all of Hopkins Park but it will spill out into the village of Bear Lake as well. Bear Lake businesses, organizations and individuals will place nearly 50 scenes in Hopkins Park for the 15th year. There will be about 60 total scenes, said Pauline Jaquish, who with her husband Philip has been in charge of the event from the start. Several new businesses will take part this year. "We're spilling out more onto (US-31). The lot downtown that had the variety store, that property — the county owns it right now, it is for sale and is still available for sale — but we are going to be decorating that site also," she said. "Anything that will stand still long enough, we'll put a light on it." There are 30 campsites in the campground, about 28 are decorated by businesses and organizations and the Bear Lake Promoters decorate another 30, said Jaquish. The Bear Lake Promoters and the Village of Bear Lake partner each year to make Sparkle in the Park happen. "We're really trying to switch everything over to LED lights, just because of the expense of the light bill every year. Of course, LED lights aren't real cheap," said Jaquish, she estimates there will be over 60,000 lights this year. "That's the other thing we do; in the middle of December we start buying stuff for next year when it comes on sale." Set up and building began in October; planning started in September. "The more years we have it; the bigger it gets. When things get bigger there's more work to be done. But we're OK with that. We like doing what we do; it's just that the clock is ticking on a lot of our people," said Jaquish on some of the volunteers. "We have a pile of stuff and we think 'Oh my gosh how is that going to fit into anything in the park?' But by opening night, it's just magic." A core of about a dozen volunteers work on the set up and decorating. The official lighting ceremony will take place from 5-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 at Hopkins Park. The event is free, and there will be tailgate chili, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies, compliments of the Bear Lake community. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available to visit with children and take photos. Visitors are also

Sparkle in the Park will open with an official lighting ceremony from 5-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 at Hopkins Park in Bear Lake. (News Advocate File photo)

encouraged to bring food items that will go to the Bear Lake Area Food Bank. Also during opening night, awards will be given out for first through third places for Best of Show for individual sites. Prizes are Bear Lake Bucks. "We're trying to encourage people to do business with local businesses," said Jaquish. Last year, was the worst year the event has seen as far as the weather goes for opening night, Jaquish said, with rain all night. "The concern we have when it is so wet, we really don't like people walking through the sites. There's electric cords running everywhere," she said. "We've never had a problem; we always try to put them up on stakes so the connections aren't getting wet. But people walk through there, they trip on the cord because they can't see it ... We haven't had any catastrophes, and we certainly don't want to have any. We try to encourage people to just use a little common sense when it's like that. Electricity and water doesn't mix very well. Sparkle in the Park is open for vehicles to drive through from 5-10 p.m. every night from Nov. 30 to Dec. 31. There is no admission charge, but there are some donation boxes by Toyland Bear Lake display. "Any donations that are received go right back into Sparkle in the Park for next year," said Jaquish. On Dec. 21 and 28, there will be horse drawn carriage rides from 6-9 p.m. "We want to encourage church groups, school groups, whatever to come anytime they want

Sparkle in the Park in Bear Lake opens on Nov. 30; there will be tailgate chili, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies, compliments of the Bear Lake community.(News Advocate File photo)

to during the whole thing and be there in Toyland Bear Lake and carol. People driving by really like that. They like to see the carolers. ... We'd like to have whoever would like to come; just show up." If anyone wants to volunteer for this year or next year, contact Jaquish at (231) 342-7285 or pj646@centurytel.net. Jaquish said the Bear Lake Promoters also host the Bear Lake Area Lighting Contest for businesses and residential homes; judging takes place Dec. 9. To register, call or email Jaquish with name and address. As a testament to the growth of Sparkle in the Park, Jaquish said she had a call from Big Rapids last year asking if Sparkle in the Park is open. "I know we're bringing people from a 50-mile radius — Cadillac, Ludington, Traverse City, it just keeps growing every

Bear Lake's Sparkle in the Park at Hopkins Park boasts 50 or more holiday scenes all decked out in lights. (File photo)

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Celebrate Winter Solstice Peaceful beauty on the night of the Winter Solstice as luminaries are placed all around the cemetery to celebrate the lives of the ancestors who have passed on. It’s a well known Finnish tradition and it is wonderful.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

The candles of Kaleva

Volunteers place as many as 1,000 luminaries on graves during the Kaleva Historical Society’s annual winter solstice event. (News Advocate File Photo) Since 1998, Kaleva celebrates the Finnish tradition of lighting candles for those who have passed by placing luminaries next to each grave in the Maple Grove Township cemetery. (News Advocate File Photo)

By Scott Fraley Staff Writer KALEVA — Graveyards can be somber and lonely places, but during the winter solstice, Maple Grove Cemetery in the rural village of Kaleva comes alive with a flurry of activity. Volunteers return to the cemetery each winter to observe the long-running Finnish tradition of lighting graveside luminaries in remembrance of the deceased. “The first year we did it, it looks like we put about 50 candles out, but it kept growing and growing. The last few years we’ve been putting out 1,000 candles with a lot of help from the community,” said Cynthia Asiala, president of the Kaleva Historical Society, which sponsors the event. Asiala was working with a service

learning class at Brethren High School to revive the Finnish heritage of Kaleva. “When we were looking at Finnish culture and trying to revive it for the town, we had done a survey and the residents wanted the Finnish culture to be a focal point as it had been,” she said. “We found out from people visiting from Finland, that a custom of wintertime was to visit the graves of their loved ones — to go to the cemetery on Christmas Eve and put out lanterns.” While in Finland, the celebration of lighting graveside candles is traditionally observed on Christmas Eve, the Kaleva Historical Society decided to hold their festivities on Dec. 21 to avoid conflicting with families’ holiday plans. The residents arrive at the graveyard around 4 p.m. and work with assembly line efficiency, often battling fierce northern winters to ensure the flickering

candles will illuminate the darkest night of the year. “It’s kind of a frenzied thing because we want to get them all out before dark, so it’s really about an hour to an hour and a half time frame for getting them out,” Asiala said adding that, “Some folks come just to pick up a candle and do their own relatives’ grave.” According to Asiala, the festivities are truly a community affair. “Larry’s Party Store and Grocery has donated the bags for the past several years. The historical society purchases the candles and a volunteer comes up with the sand and a tractor,” she said. The Kaleva community has reenacted this tradition for over 20 years, only cancelling twice due to harsh weather. “We can't do it with high winds, I mean that's the worst,” Asiala said. “We can handle snow if it isn't too thick or too heavy that it puts the candles out. Some years the snow has been so deep that we trip over the gravestones and people bring a sled to carry the luminaries.”

As the tradition grew older, so did many of the volunteers Asiala said, requiring creative ways to bring in new helping hands. “It's hard for 80 year olds to tromp through the snow and bend over and light the candle, but the last two or three years we’ve been so fortunate, because the sports teams from Brethren High School, has come with their kids,” Asiala said. “Then it goes like clockwork. Then we know we’ll reach our goal of putting out 1,000 lighted candles.” By 5 p.m., their work is done and all 1,000 candles are lit. When darkness falls on Maple Grove Cemetery, the minister from nearby Bethany Lutheran Church leads the community in prayer amid the glowing luminaries and snow-capped headstones. Afterward, Kaleva residents retire to shelter at the Lutheran Church in order to warm up, reminisce about years gone by and enjoy a hearty cup of soup. Asiala said the hope is that the candles will last until around 10 p.m.

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Keep safety in mind when decorating for the holidays Decorations help make the holiday season a magical time of year. Stores are awash in color and twinkling lights, and similar imagery is on display in private homes. Designing holiday displays can be a great way for families to spend time together and kick off the celebration. In fact, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International, around 90 percent of Americans decorate their homes for the holidays. When trimming the tree and decorating this holiday season, families must keep safety in mind. A little planning and some precautionary measures can ensure displays are enjoyed all season long. Travelers Insurance offers the following holiday decorating safety tips. • Do not overload outlets. Plan displays according to the number and location of available outlets. • Never exceed the maximum number of light strands that can be attached together.

• Use lights and products that have been tested for safety. Certification marks like UL, ETL and CSA are from nationally recognized laboratories. • LED lights should be used whenever possible. Such lights consume less energy and run cooler than other bulbs. • The ESFI says candles start almost 50 percent of all decoration fires. Minimize the risk by using candles only when they can be monitored. Artificial candles can be used in place of real candles. • Check for freshness in live trees. A fresh tree will last longer and is less of a fire hazard than an old tree. • Place Christmas trees at least three feet away from all heat sources, including fireplaces and heaters. • Use decorations that are non-combustible or made from flame-resistant materials. • Pay attention to the age recommendations of decorations to see if they

can be used in homes with young children. Some items, however common, are choking or strangulation hazards. • Avoid putting small, "mouth-sized" decorations near the ground or on lower limbs of trees, where young children can easily reach them. • Exercise caution when hanging decorations at high heights. Make sure the ladder is secured and have a spotter who can hold the ladder and pass items up safely. • Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. • Exercise caution when decorating near power lines that extend to the house. • Keep hung stockings far away from open flames so they do not catch any errant embers. These are just a few suggestions for decorating a safely for the holiday season.

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

2019 Area Holiday Events Calendar NOVEMBER Nov. 27 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Light Up the Night Music Series: Adam Knudsen, Ludington Pub, 209 S. James St., Ludington

Nov. 28 • 9-10:30 a.m. 5K Turkey Vulture Trott, 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville

Avenue, Ludington • 7-8 p.m. Frankfort Community Tree Lighting, Rotary Park downtown Frankfort • 7:30 p.m. A Very Merry Motown Christmas with the Ultimate Taste Band, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., downtown Ludington

DECEMBER

• Noon-2 p.m. Dec. 1-31 Community Thanksgiving Dinner, • 5-10 p.m., Sparkle in Emanuel Lutheran the Park, 7727 Hopkins Church, 501 E. Danaher Drive, Bear Lake St., Ludington • Noon-2 p.m. 45th Annual Bette J. Naffie Memorial Thanksgiving Dinner, VFW Walsh Post No. 4499, 1211 28th St. in Manistee

Nov. 29 • 6-9 p.m. Holiday Trail Celebration, 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville

Nov 30 • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 22nd Annual Holly Berry Arts & Crafts Fair, Frankfort High School • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Santa & Mrs Claus arriving in Horse Drawn Carriage at Frankfort High School

Dec 4 • 6-9 p.m. Rotary Holiday Auction, Lincoln Hills Golf Club, 1527 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington • 6:30-8:30 p.m. Light Up the Night Music Series: Tom Zatarga, Jamesport Brewing Co., 410 S. James T., Ludington

• Manistee's Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend

• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Annual Ludington Arts Center Holiday Craft Show, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison Street, Ludington • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Manistee VFW Ladies Auxiliary Christmas Bazaar, Manistee VFW, 1211 28th Street, Manistee • 4-6 p.m. Holiday Parade Open House, Ludington Library, 217 E. Ludington Avenue, Ludington

• 5-10 p.m. Sparkle in the Park opens, 7727 Hopkins Drive, Bear Lake

• 3 p.m. A Very Merry Motown Christmas with the Ultimate Taste Band, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., downtown Ludington

Dec. 5-8

• 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Carriage Rides from Frankfort High School

• 5-6 p.m., First Light Celebration, 12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville

Dec. 1

Dec. 5 • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Jazz Ensemble, WSCC Center Stage Theatre, Scottville

Dec 6 • Festival of Trees & Holiday Decor Event, Ramsdell Ballroom • 6:30-7:45 p.m. Kids & Kupkakes, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present "Elf the Musical", Manistee High School Auditorium, Manistee

Dec. 7 • Festival of Trees & Holiday Decor Event, Ramsdell Ballroom

• 6-7 p.m. Aglow on the Avenue Parade, Ludington Avenue, Ludington

• 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lakeshore Animal Friends Christmas Bazaar, Mason County Animal Control, Meyers Road, Ludington

• 7-8 p.m. Mr & Mrs Claus at Sandcastles Children's Museum, 129 E. Ludington

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Manistee Sleighbell Bazaar and Craft Show, Manistee High School,

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Old Dudes Rock with Manistee’s Own Jay Fortier at 8pm Manistee Moose Lodge 1128 1010 Robinson Street, Manistee

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concert, Manistee Middle/High School Auditorium

• 10 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Christmas Magic, downtown Beulah

• 7:30 p.m. WSCC Concert Choir, WSCC Center Stage Theatre, Scottville

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday Party & Craft Workshop, Benzonia Public Library, 891 Michigan Avenue, Benzonia

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the Farr Center in Onekama on a firetruck every year. This year's event is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 7. (News Advocate File Photo)

12th Street, Manistee • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Parents & PaintHoliday Paint Event, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa Photos, Ludington Library, downtown Ludington • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Christmas Craft Sale, Snug Harbor Adult Day Care Center, 301 N. Washington Ave., Ludington • 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jr. Clio Club presents Santa and Mrs. Claus, arriving on a firetruck, Farr Center in Onekama

• 7:30 p.m. WSCC Gold Coast Chorale, WSCC Center Stage Theatre, Scottville

Dec. 10 • 6 p.m. Band concert, Brethren Schools • 6 p.m. MAPS Kindergarten & second grade student holiday sing, Manistee Middle/High School Auditorium • 6 p.m. Holiday concert, Manistee Catholic Central gymnasium

Dec. 11 • 5-8 p.m. Men's Night, Downtown Manistee

• 2-5 p.m. Family Dinner, hosted by West Shore Pride, Lakeshore Resource Network, 920 E. Ludington Ave., Ludington • 3-5 p.m. No $ Turkey Dinner, free, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., downtown Ludington • 4-7 p.m. White Pine Christmas, Historic White Pine Village, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington • 7-9 p.m. We'll Be Home for the Holidays, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., downtown Ludington • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present "Elf the Musical", Manistee High School Auditorium, Manistee

• 6 p.m. MAPS Fourth • 1-3 p.m. Canvas & grade student holiday Dec. 15 sing & Middle School Cheer-Holiday Paint Choir concert, Manistee Event, Ramsdell • 2 p.m. Manistee Middle/High School Regional Center for the Civic Players present Auditorium Arts "Elf the Musical", Manistee High School • 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Noon-2 p.m. St. Paul's Auditorium, Manistee Light Up the Night Lutheran Church, 313 Music Series: Canopy 4th St. in Manistee Space, The Mitten, 109 Dec. 16 W. Ludington Ave., • 7:30 p.m. Manistee • 7 p.m. MAPS Fifth Ludington Civic Players present & sixth grade band "Elf the Musical", concert, Manistee Dec. 12 Manistee High School Middle/High School Auditorium, Manistee Auditorium • 6:30 p.m. Holiday band concert, Onekama • 7:40 p.m. Laith • 7 p.m. Elementary Consolidate Schools Al-Saadi, Ramsdell school holiday sing, cafetorium Regional Center for the Bear Lake Schools Arts, Manistee • 7 p.m. Holiday • 7:30 p.m. WSCC band concert, Bear Dec. 8 Percussion Ensemble Lake Schools lower & Wind Symphony, gymnasium • Festival of Trees & Peterson Auditorium, Holiday Decor Event, Ludington Dec. 13 Ramsdell Ballroom Dec. 17 • 4-7 p.m. White Pine • 2 p.m. Manistee Christmas, Historic Civic Players present • 6 p.m. ChristmasWhite Pine Village, "Elf the Musical", sing-along, Brethren 1687 S. Lakeshore Manistee High School Schools Drive, Ludington Auditorium, Manistee • 7 p.m. MAPS Seventh • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Dec. 9 & eighth grade and Civic Players present high school band "Elf the Musical", • 6 p.m. MAPS First Manistee High School & third grade student Auditorium, Manistee holiday sing, Manistee Middle/High School Dec 14 Auditorium • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa's Workshop at

Dec. 18 • 5-8 p.m. Ladie's Night, Downtown Manistee • 6:30 p.m. Elementary holiday sing, Onekama Consolidate Schools high school gymnasium • 7 p.m. Trinity Lutheran School Advent Service, Trinity Lutheran Church

Dec. 21 • 2-4 p.m. and 7:309:30 p.m., Edgar Strubel Presents: Nashville Family Christmas, Peterson Auditorium, 508 N. Washington Avenue, Ludington • 4 p.m. Winter Solstice Candle Lighting, Maple Grove Township Cemetery, Kaleva

Dec 31 • 5-8 p.m. Balloon Drop New Year's Eve, Sandcastles Children's Museum, 129 E. Ludington Avenue, Ludington. • 7:30-11:30 New Year's Eve Party, Ludington Library, 217 E. Ludington Avenue, Ludington • 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. New Year's Eve Ball Drop, North James Street Plaza, Ludington • 7:30 p.m. Ring in the Roaring 2020s at LACA's NYE, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., downtown Ludington • 8 p.m. Puttin' on the Ritz, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee • Downtown Ludington New Year's Eve Ball Drop

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Practice food safety techniques this holiday season The holiday season is here, and with it comes the much-anticipated excitement of delicious food. District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) reminds people of tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when it comes to food safety techniques this holiday season. Keep everyone in the holiday spirit by practicing these techniques and not worrying about food-borne illnesses: • Keep it clean. Wash your hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds before preparing, eating or handling food. Also, make sure to wash cutting boards, utensils, pans and counter-tops with hot, soapy water before and after preparing food; • Separate it out. Raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs should stay separate from fresh foods that won’t be cooked before eating, when picking up from the grocery store, storing in the refrigerator, and preparing to serve; • Cook it completely. Everyone’s worst nightmare — the turkey

Don't forget to wash cutting boards, utensils and counter-tops with hot, soapy water before and after preparing food. (Courtesy photo)

or ham wasn’t cooked all the way and now people are sick. Make use of a food thermometer to ensure foods are cooked to the correct temperature to kill bacteria. Pay attention to the labeling on food packages and to make sure the internal cooking temperature and resting guidelines have been met. Visit https://www.foodsafety.

gov/food-safety-charts/ safe-minimum-cookingtemperature for more information; • Serve it safely. Simply said, keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Hot foods should be kept at 140o F or warmer in a slow cooker or warming tray and cold foods at 40o F or colder in the refrigerator or on ice; • Time it out. Follow

Raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs should stay separate from fresh foods that won’t be cooked before eating. (Courtesy photo)

the 2-Hour rule: Foods that require refrigeration should be refrigerated within two hours. If perishable foods are out past two hours, play it safe and throw them away; and

• Save those leftovers. Leftovers are like the holiday all over again. To keep leftovers lasting longer, divide them into smaller portions and refrigerator or freeze

within two hours of preparation. Then, you can enjoy them when you’re ready. For more information about food safety, visit www.cdc.gov/foodsafety.

arrival of the solstice as a time of death and rebirth. Early man also kept track of the days by observing the sun's position in the sky. In fact, historians believe Stonehenge was created to monitor the sun's yearly "movement." 7. Many traditions associated with Christmas

originated during Pagan celebrations for the winter solstice. For example, Scandinavians would burn a juul (yule) log in the hearth in honor of the god Thor. Thor's job was to bring the sun's warmth back to the people. While the winter solstice and the lack of

sunlight synonymous with it may not be something everyone looks forward to, there is a silver lining. Following the winter solstice, the hours of sunlight gradually increase by the day, eventually paving the way for the spring equinox.

7 facts about the winter solstice Nocturnal animals and human night owls may rejoice during the winter solstice. On the winter solstice, people can witness the Earth's longest night and shortest day of the year for their respective hemispheres. For individuals living in the northern hemisphere, the winter solstice generally occurs between Dec. 20 and 23 each year. Those in the southern hemisphere experience the winter solstice between June 20 to June 23. In 2019, the northern hemisphere's winter solstice occurs on Dec. 21. The solstice may come and go unnoticed, but it's an interesting day on the calendar. 1. Not only will the winter solstice occur on a specific date, it also occurs at a specific time when the Earth's semi-axis tilts

furthest from the sun. This corresponds to when the North Pole is aimed away from the sun on the 23.5 degree tilt of the Earth's axis. At this point, the sun also shines directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. The information and trivia site Mental Floss says the solstice happens at the same moment for everyone on the plane. However, the hour it occurs depends on your time zone. 2. Areas of the Northern Hemisphere can have varying lengths of day and night on the solstice. For example, New York City may have nine hours and 15 minutes of sunlight on the winter solstice. If that upsets New Yorkers, they may be happy to be outside parts of Finland, some of which get less than six hours of sunlight on the solstice. 3. The word "solstice" is derived from Latin and

means "sun stands still." It was chosen to describe this cosmic phenomenon because the solstice sun seemingly appears in the same position at noontime for several days before and after the winter solstice — at its lowest point in the sky. 4. It is easy to mistake the solstices for the equinoxes, which also occur twice a year. However, the equinoxes occur in fall and spring and mark when the sun is directly above the equator and night and day are of equal length. 5. Despite the winter solstice indicating the beginning of the astrological winter, it may not be the coldest time of the season. Usually those temperatures are reserved for January and February. 6. The Farmer's Almanac reports that many cultures marked the

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Jr. Clio Club brings Santa and Mrs. Claus to Onekama From Staff Reports

Liam Grimm, of Kaleva, sits with Santa at the Farr Center in Onekama during a previous event. (News Advocate File Photo)

ONEKAMA — Next month, sirens will be blasting as Santa and Mrs. Claus ride into Onekama aboard a firetruck. For more than half a century, the Jr. Clio Club has been bringing the jolly old elf to the area. The event is free to everyone, and brings smiles to the faces of young and old alike as the pair from the North Pole arrive at the Farr Center in

Onekama. The event is slated for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 7. Each child will have a chance to talk with Santa and Mrs. Claus, take photos and receive a free gift. A Christmas tree and Christmas village also will be on display in the Farr Center, located at 5283 Main St. in Onekama Cookies, punch and coffee also will be served.

Festival of Trees helps build homes in Benzie County By Colin Merry Pioneer News Network

a silent auction both days. All of the proceeds go to Benzie County Habitat for BENZONIA — An Humanity. annual holiday event kicks "The trees are off the holiday season by decorated by individuals, raising money for a local families, churches, area nonprofit that builds businesses and civic homes for families in need. groups," Houston said. The Festival of Trees "For some families, it is a will open to the public holiday tradition they do from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on every year." Nov. 30 and from 11 a.m. She also said a few and 4 p.m. on Dec. 1 at the Benzie Area Historical classes from area schools come in and decorate Museum, located at 6941 Traverse Ave. in Benzonia. trees. "They get pretty Event organizer Kathy creative," Houston said. Houston said there will Traditionally, a be about 100 different items available, from fully reading of holiday-themed materaial has been held, decorated artificial and but this year, as of the time fresh Christmas trees, to wreaths, table decorations, of writing, it is unknown if there will be a reading other decorations and a scheduled. Houston said live tree. Visitors can bid on the the Benzie County Habitat trees and decorations via for Humanity Facebook

page will have updates on whether there is a reading or not. Last year, the Festival of Trees raised around $7,000, but Houston said the average if $5,000. Over the last 10 years, the event has raised a total of about $50,000 for Benzie County Habitat for Humanity. Each year, between 500 and 700 people visit the Festival of Trees. "When people walk in, they can make a donation that's shared by Habitat and the museum, too," Houston said. "It's been that way ever since we began working with them, because they're hosting the event. It's nice because it gives people the chance to check out the Christmas display the museum puts

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The trees for The Festival of Trees are decorated by area families, individuals, businesses, churches and other organizations. (File Photo)

out, too." This year, the museum's Christmas exhibit features handmade figures created by Dorothy Hensel for her famous 12 Days of Christmas exhibit, originally created for Olsen-Sayles window — and was exhibited there for a number of years. The 78-piece set took first place in the Patriot

Commercial Window Decoration Contest In 1972. The exhibit reflects the artistic talents of Hensel, who is also was the prime force behind the creation of the Benzie Area Historical Society. Houston said the museum began hosting the Festival of Trees in the early 2000s, but it is an older event than that. She said it is over 20 years old,

Help decorate our Mitten Tree! Filer Credit Union and the Manistee News Advocate are collecting mittens, hats & scarves for children in manistee county. Let's keep them warm and healthy! Drop off at Filer Credit Union -1117 28th St. from 9-5 or 1778 Kemmer Rd. from 9-5 Manistee News Advocate - 75 Maple St from 8-5 November 1 - November 30

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and, at one time, held in the basement of the Mills Community House. The Festival of Trees is organized by a committee of volunteers which is supported by the Benzie County Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, the Benzie Area Historical Museum and other community organizations and businesses.

Mittens, Mittens,hats hats&& scarves scarves will to Love, EchoInc., His willbe be given given to Love, of Choices Choices of and Manistee County ManisteeCounty CountySchools and Manistee ManisteetoCounty Schools distribute. to distribute.

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Arts and crafts, holiday events kick off Christmas season in Frankfort By Colin Merry Pioneer News Network FRANKFORT — A Thanksgiving weekend tradition returns to Frankfort to jump-start the Christmas season. The Holly Berry Arts and Crafts Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 30 at Frankfort High School. Many families enjoy coming to Holly Berry to get a jump-start on their holiday shopping and look for unique hand-made gifts they won't find at Black Friday sales. Holly Berry has everything from jewelry, clothing, blankets, doll clothing, fiber art, handmade soaps, pottery, paintings, quilts, stationary, yard decorations, home decorations, photographs and cutlery. Some vendors also bring tasty homemade snacks. In past years, vendors have brought cheese, jerky, bread mixes and pasties.

Visitors can also participate in the Frankfort-Elberta Chamber of Commerce's raffle, the organization that hosts the event. Vendors donate items which are then raffled off. Visitors can purchase tickets and enter them in an attempt to win the item of their choice. There also will be activities and crafts for children, including a visit from Santa Claus, from 10 a.m. to noon at the high school. During this time, kids will be able to get their pictures taken with Santa and participate in a variety of arts and crafts activities. There also will be carriage rides offered outside of the high school during this period. Boy Scout Troop No. 10 will be offering lunch options to both visitors and vendors alike. The girls softball team also will be selling wreaths to help fund team events.

Horse drawn carriage rides from Fantail Farms are part of the Holly Berry Arts and Crafts event at Frankfort High School. (File Photo)

Organizers say the Holly Berry Arts and Crafts Fair is the first holiday event for many families living in and visiting Benzie County during the Thanksgiving holiday, and that it is tradition for some families to attend the event. Another Frankfort tradition, the community tree lighting, will also be

held, from 7-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 30, at Rotary Park in downtown Frankfort. The tree will be lit and decorated, and visitors will be able to enjoy complimentary doughnut holes. Christmas carols will be performed by the Frankfort High School Band.

The Benzie County Community Chorus will be presenting its Christmas concert in December. (Courtesy Photo)

Community chorus brings Christmas melodies to Benzie County Chorus will present a series of Christmas concerts this season. Performances will be BENZIE COUNTY — held at several locations. A Christmas tradition over The first concert will 40 years in the making, the be held at 7:30 p.m. on Benzie County Community Dec. 13 at St. Andrews

By Colin Merry Pioneer News Network

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Presbyterian Church. The second concert will be held at 3 p.m. on Dec 14, also at St. Andrews. A final concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 15 at Frankfort United Methodist Church.

TODAY!

No admission is charged for this concert which is given as a gift to the community. A free-will offering will be accepted for the support of the chorus. "This year, the title of the concert is Carols and Lullabies," said Dinah Haag, choir director. "The idea is music for the heart, music for the soul." Haag said adults

generally don't think they need gentle music like lullabies, but in trying times, they can help. Haag also said the concert will feature familiar carols and some more unique performances, such as duets and small group melodies. The women will sing a song called "Lullaby," by Daniel Elder, and the

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men will do "Lullaby (Goodnight My Angel)," by Billie Joel. She also said some traditional carols include "Deck the Halls" and a new, gentle version of "Silent Night." The choir also will perform "The Shepard's Pipe Carol" and Eric Whitacre's "Glow." The performance will end with "The Lord Bless You and Keep You." The concerts started when founder and former director Carolyn Lalas brought together choir members from area churches to perform a Christmas concert. The concert was a hit, and that’s when Lalas and the other singers decided to continue performing as a group — creating the Benzie County Community Chorus. Since then, not only have they continued to perform the traditional Christmas concert every year, but they’ve performed summer concerts and have toured locations throughout the country and Europe. For more information, visit the Benzie County Community Chorus website at benziechorus. com.

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

LACA to present 'A Very Merry Motown Christmas'

From Staff Reports

LUDINGTON — Get into the holiday spirit with West Michigan’s premier Motown group the Ultimate Taste Band as they host ‘A Very Merry Motown Christmas’ concert at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts. A Very Merry Motown Christmas will feature an array of holiday music with an added Motown twist as well as classic Motown and R&B/soul tunes. The event will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 1 at Ludington Area Center for the Arts, located at 107 S. Harrison St., in Ludington. The Ultimate Taste Band is an Old School R&B Band that was formed in a small town called Muskegon in Western Michigan. The band name speaks

volumes of itself on and off the stage by the music they play, and by the warm personalities they share with everyone they come in contact with. This soulful national recording band known as U.T.B. has shared the main stage with some great R&B Artist s such as Bobby Rush, John Legend, Shirley King, Sir Charles, Leroy Hudson, The Dramatics, Bobby Blue Bland, Patti LaBelle, and Con-Funk-Shun. They have now recorded their own music, and their first song “Falling In To You” has been released by their record label Bell Time Records. You can believe that Ultimate Taste Band has some great original old school R&B songs coming out of the studio that will

The Ultimate Taste Band will perform at Ludington Area Center for the Arts on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. (Courtesy photo)

soon bring back lots of memories to all of those who had, and still have a love for old school R&B songs with lots of meaning in the lyric. Currently U.T.B. provides their customers

with a wide range of musical entertainment. Their music entails a variety of music including ‘70s, ‘80s, Funk, Classic Rock, Pop, R&B, and also the latest and hottest music of today. Ultimate

Taste Band consists of a group of talented and professional members who are experienced and wellpolished in their music field. Each musician takes pride in delivering great musical performances and

satisfying their customers. Tickets are $15 general admission and $8 for children 10-years and under and can be purchased at www. eventbrite.com.

New Year's Eve events bring fun to winter season By Ashlyn Korienek Staff Writer Despite the chilly weather, the winter season in northwest Michigan boasts plenty of opportunities to celebrate with family and friends. The New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Ludington on Dec. 31 is attended by more than 10,000 people each year; this celebration has been hosted for many years. If you cannot make it to Times Square in New York City for the ball drop, the New Year's Eve festival in downtown Ludington is second to none in this region of Michigan. Jen Tooman, Downtown Ludington communications and marketing manager, said the event features a beer tent, warming stations, music and fireworks, all enjoyed by large crowds of people. "We have a ball drop event and a street party that starts around 9 p.m. and goes until the ball drop and through the fireworks," Tooman said. "We have a live DJ on site and a beer tent, the street is closed off for four blocks." The stunning, vibrant New Year's Eve ball is six feet tall and five inches in diameter, and is the largest in size located in northwest Michigan. The

The New Year's Eve Ball Drop in downtown Ludington is a well attended celebration. (Courtesy Photo/Downtown Ludington)

event features various safe ride programs, lodging for visitors and the following morning on Jan. 1, people are invited to take on the New Year's Resolution Run 5K. "It has become a large event that all started out as a small 'give back to the community' celebration on New Year's Eve," Tooman said. "It has become wildly popular and it's a lot of fun." While the event is free, area businesses band

together to host plenty of fun opportunities for festival visitors. To learn more about the New Year's Eve celebration, visit the Downtown Ludington's website at www. downtownludington.org. "We have businesses open, both restaurants and retailers," she said. "A lot of them will give away coffee and hot chocolate. It is weather dependent on how everything is set up, but we have never canceled an event."

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MANISTEE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM PRESENTS:

Wintertime City in the

in the Lyman Company Building 425 River Street | Manistee

A special exhibit of photographs displaying the winter seasons in the city of Manistee over the last 150 years. Curated from the museum’s archives, this exhibit will feature photographs of buildings, people, fires and various events during the winter seasons of yesteryear.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Ramsdell Theatre a hub of activity around the holidays By Ashlyn Korienek Staff Writer During the winter months, the City of Manistee becomes a wonderland for families and visitors of all kinds. While most say it's best time of the year, the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts is making sure that those staying in Manistee have plenty to do around the holidays. The 2019 holiday season at the Ramsdell will begin with the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, which is slated for Dec. 5-8. The first event on Thursday, Dec. 5 will feature the opening of the "Sno Snake Sho," an exhibit modeled after the summer art show, "Art Snake," which is held in Onekama Township each year. "There are over 10 different artists; they are all different multimedia artists, so there is photography, paintings, sculptures and some artists have two to three items they are exhibiting," said Laura Ortiz, Ramsdell events manager. The Sno Snake Sho will feature artwork by artists from across the northwest Michigan region. The exhibit will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8. An artist reception will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. "In the summer they have the Art Snake in Onekama, so this is like that concept but instead of

Held each year at the Ramsdell Theatre, the Festival of Trees is a staple event during the Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend. (News Advocate File Photos)

The Ramsdell will host a New Years Eve party to celebrate 2020. Last year's theme was The Great Gatsby. (Courtesy Photo)

A slew of events will be held in the basement of the Ramsdell during the Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend. (News Advocate File Photos)

going from studio to studio they will just go from artist to artist," Ortiz said. "It's the winter version of that event, but all in one location. I thought it was a great idea to continue displaying local artists." The Ramsdell Theatre box office will also open from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, located at 101 Maple. St. New to the Ramsdell, a concert will be held

by the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce. Another holiday favorite is the Ramsdell's second annual New Years Eve bash, which will take on the theme "Puttin' on the Ritz." Top hats, tails and tiaras are encouraged, Ortiz said. "It's a glamorous Hollywood theme with gold and black. It's going to be a real fancy and over the top kind of event,"

following the Sleighbell parade on Saturday, Dec. 7, featuring Laith Al-Saadi who won a spot in the finale of NBC’s “The Voice” in 2016. The local group, Cousin Curtiss, will open for the show. The concert will be held from 8-10 p.m., and Cousin Curtiss will begin at 7:40 p.m. Tickets start at $20. "We want to give everyone a chance to go down to the parade, and

We thank you for the gift of your business, and wish you and your loved ones a bounty of glad tidings this holiday season.

then come here to warm up and see a concert," Ortiz said. "I hear he's got a great following and people really like his music, and Cousin Curtiss is a local so that's great, too." Ortiz said additional events will be held at the Ramsdell during the festival week, including tours of the Ramsdell and the annual Festival of Trees which is hosted

she said. "The ballroom is going to be transformed into this glamorous space; we cannot start decorating until after the Festival of Trees. We have three weeks to make it look great — it's a lot of work." The event will take place starting at 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 in the Ramsdell ballroom, with tickets for sale by visiting ramsdelltheatre.org or MyNorthTickets.com.

The origins of Christmas caroling The festive nature of the holiday season makes it an ideal time to sing, especially in groups. Perhaps it's no surprise then that caroling, a tradition that dates back many centuries, ultimately collided with Christmas. Caroling and Christmas caroling are two different things. According to History.org, the origins of modern Christmas caroling can be traced to wassailing, a term that has evolved for more than a millennium. What started as a simple greeting gradually became part of a toast made during ritualized drinking. Time magazine notes that the word "wassail," which appeared in English literature as early as the eighth century, eventually came to mean the wishing of good fortune on one's neighbors, though no one can say for certain when this particular development occurred. During medieval times, farmers in certain parts of Britain would drink a beverage to toast the health of their crops and encourage the fertility of their animals. By 1600, farmers in some parts

of Britain were still engaging in this ritual, and some were by now taking a wassail bowl filled with a toasting beverage around the streets. These wassailers would stop by neighboring homes and offer a warm drink, all the while wishing good fortune on their neighbors. During this period, wassailing had nothing to do with Christmas, but that began to change in Victorian England, when Christmas became more commercialized and popular. It was during this time when publishers began circulating carols, forever linking the tradition of wassailing with Christmas. Christmas caroling as Victorian Englanders knew it might have fallen by the wayside. But while carolers may no longer go door-to-door singing Christmas songs and wishing their neighbors good fortune, those intent on seeing the modern manifestation of this tradition that dates back more than a millennium may be able to find some carolers at their local mall or church.

Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Reasons to shop Manistee County this Christmas

The cast of "Elf" works hard on choreography during rehearsals. (Courtesy photo)

Civic Players to present ‘Elf the Musical’ By Dave Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

the movie pretty closely, with a few different things, so if you enjoyed the movie, you’re surely going to enjoy the play.” A modern day The Elf cast includes Christmas story will find Zachary Weber as Buddy, the spotlight in Manistee during Sleighbell weekend Rebecca Barker as Jovie, Rob Isble plays Walter, when the Manistee Civic Katie Biehl is Emily, Jack Players production of “Elf O’Donnell is Michael, the Musical” opens. “It’s a really fun play,” Amanda Feyen is Deb, James Schroeder is Santa, said co-director Carol Burba. “A baby crawls into Johnny Starmann is Mr. Greenway and Liam Quinn Santa’s bag, Santa takes him back to the North Pole is the manager. The ensemble cast and he’s raised as an elf, of elves, customers, fake but eventually Santa tells santas, security guards, him he’s a human, not an employees and other elf, so Buddy the Elf goes characters includes on his quest to find his Bay Anderson, Gracey father.” Anderson, Belle Berridge, Burba has become known as Christmas Carol Joey Burba, Anthony Erlandson, Christian since this is the ninth Erlandson, Nathaniel civic players Christmas Erlandson, Lauren production she’s directed Hanna, Olivia Holtgren, in the past 10 years. She Rick Hudson, Hanna was in the cast of the Karsberg, Allison Ladd, Christmas play she didn’t Andy O’Donnell, Olivia direct. Rackow, Kaleb Shoemate, “We have a really great cast,” she said. “with Bella Sorenson, Bristol a lot of veterans and some Sorenson, Elizabeth newbies, as always. In last Sutton, Renae Sutton, Plum Tanasomboonkit and year’s show (Christmas Nadine Underwood. on Angel Street), we had Both Burba and Laws a lot of kids and just a few adults, but this year there’s are excited that high school student Ryan Biller, a mixture. There are all who has been involved in ages – from 5 to 77.” Paula Laws is also co- a number of civic players directing her second MCP productions, is the play’s production after helping the music director. veteran Jackie Karnisz Biller will also with the “Addams Family.” play keyboards and “I am having a great other members of the time and learning so orchestra are Kathy much from ‘Christmas Butler and Aurora Carol,’” Laws said. “One Johnson on keyboards; day in the future I may Mary Paine, flute and try directing on my own, piccolo; Karri Grillo and but for now I’ll just learn Kay Danforth, sax and as much as I can from our clarinet; Mac Danforth, seasoned directors. I am so clarinet, bassoon and sax; fortunate they’ve taken me Melissa Davis and Miles under their wings.” Bednarcyzk, trumpet; Josh Laws said she is Meisenheimer and Alex planning to help Karnisz Robertson, trombone; with “Leader of the Pack” Ralph Quinn, bass; Bob next summer. Brenner, drums; and Joyce “This show is very Brenner, percussion. funny,” Laws said. “I Members of the guarantee the audience production team besides will be laughing. It follows Burba, Laws and Biller

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are Amanda Feyen, vocal director; Jackie Karnisz, stage manager; Sarah Huber, assistant stage manager; Shannon Snyder, choreographer; David Holmer, set construction; Glenda Finner, props; and Fred Sundbeck, lighting design. Burba said that there are several technically difficult scenes in the play. “There’s a scene where the kids will be ice skating, so we’re going to modifying roller skates to make them look like ice skates. And, people are in for a big surprise because Santa’s sleigh will fly away.” Laws said they are searching for etch a sketch toys. “We’re need about 30 of them,” she said. “They don’t have to be working. And we also need a lot of older toys like blocks and wooden train sets.” Anyone willing to loan the toys to the civic players are asked to call (231) 723-7188 or email Laws at plaws@pioneergroup.com. Laws noted that it’s

fun being part of Sleighbell weekend. “There will be lots of people in town, so we hope that they will come to see the show after they enjoy the parade or any time during the weekend,” she said. “Of course we’re performing the following weekend, too.” “This is a family funny experience.” Burba said, “Everyone should bring the kids, all the way up to grandma. They will all love it and laugh.” Elf the Musical will be presented in the Manistee High School auditorium at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays Dec. 6, 7, 13 and 14 and at 2 p.m. on Sundays Dec. 8 and 15. Tickets are $18 for adults, $13 for seniors (age 60 and over) and $8 for students. Children ages 3 and under get in for free. Tickets are available by calling the civic players business office at (231) 723-7188.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Victorian Sleighbell Weekend to offer old favorites, new events By Dave Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

Manistee continues a 31 year tradition of ringing in the holiday season in old Victorian style with the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend Thursday, Dec. 5 through Sunday, Dec. 8. “I'm most excited about about the parade,” said Rachel Brooks, who has been chairing the sleighbell committee since 2014 and is also the chair of the Manistee Downtown Development Authority board of directors. Sleighbell weekend is a project of the DDA. “The parade is a very unique experience,” she continued. “The fact that there are no motorized vehicles and that all the entries are horse and carriage teams makes is something you won't see anywhere else. We have 50 to 55 parade entries and the marjority of them are horse and carriage or music.” The parade starts at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, running from east to west on River Street. River Street events leading up to the parade include free films at the Vogue Theatre, exhibits at the Manistee County Historical Museum, music by the MaxwellTown Brass Band and the Jingle Mingle at the Ramsdell Inn. At the west end of River Street following the parade the community Christmas tree will be lit as Christmas carols are

sung and then fireworks will bring the program to a close. The Manistee County Historical Museum exhibit Wintertime in the City, featuring 150 years of Manistee area winter photos, will be open throughout the weekend. The Festival of Trees, in the Ramsdell Theatre ballroom, opens Thursday evening with a special Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. On Friday, downtown merchants will hold their annual soup cook-off, inviting all to taste and vote for the best recipes. Friday is also the opening night for the Manistee Civic Players production of “Elf The Musical” at Manistee High School auditorium. Events at the Ramsdell Theatre in addition to the Festival of Trees include building tours, a Sno Snake Sho art exhibit featuring the works of area artists and a Saturday evening concert by TV's The Voice finalist Laith Al-Saadi. Other historic building tours include the James Dempsey Mansion and the Olde Kirke Museum. Also, a Christmas tea will be held at the Buckley House on Saturday. Brooks said the committee is pleased to be offering Saturday afternoon horse and carriage rides on both sides of Maple Street this

The Sleighbell Craft Show and Bake Sale at Manistee High School is a popular event. (News Advocate File photo)

year and also pony rides for kids. “It's a very family oriented weekend,” she said. “There are lots of kids events and everything is for the whole family.” The Reed family of Bear Lake will continue to use their draft horses to pull the upright Christmas tree down River Street and Brooks said this year there will be a somewhat smaller second tree in the parade. “There will be a number of new parade entries and also several new events throughout downtown and the city,”

she said. “Another thing we're bringing back is the warming tent. Douglas Valley, our local vineyard, will be hosting it at the corner of Oak and River streets. The Sleighbell craft show and bake sale at Manistee High School is also a big event as is the Festival of Trees at the Ramsdell ballroom. “River Street merchants enjoy welcoming people to the soup cook-off and on Saturday before the parade Kendra Thompson Architects will do roasted

chestnuts along River Street for the 29th year. People love the roasted chestnuts.” Brooks said the committee doesnt' get overly concerned with weather predictions. “We love when it snows a little bit,” she laughed, indicating that they don't want weather to keep people away or make River Street slippery for the horses. Brooks said she enjoys heading up the efforts to stage Manistee's special weekend. “We have a great

committee, and every committee member has a certain responsibility and we all work very well together,” Brooks said. “We meet on a monthly basis all year long to plan for it and it works out really well. It's a great weekend for downtown and the entire community. The complete schedule of events and other information about the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas weekend is available at manisteesleighbellparade. com.

Take step back in time during White Pine Christmas From Staff Reports LUDINGTON — Bringing together the traditions of the past and present; the Historic White Pine Village invites everyone to make new memories with your loved ones. The village will be decorated with lights, trees and other Christmas decorations for the White Pine Christmas from 4-7

p.m. on Dec. 13 and 14. Tour through the village festooned with lights, and Christmas decorations. Participate in letter writing to Santa, craft projects and demonstrations. Hang out by the fire pit to warm up, or stop in the Town Hall to purchase popcorn, or milk and cookies.

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Visit Santa in Cole's General Store. Grinder Gordie and his Street organ and 16th century carolers will provide favorite festive songs of the holiday season. There also will be make-n-take Christmas crafts. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for those ages 6-17 and free for children 2 The Historic White Pine Village gets all decked out for the White Pine Christmas, slated for Dec. 13 years old and younger. and 14 this year. (Courtesy photo)

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Ten Christmas classics to watch this year By Robert Myers Pioneer News Network

With Thanksgiving upon us, Christmas movies and TV specials are sure to begin popping up on television. Here are 10 Christmas classics to be sure to watch this holiday season: A Charlie Brown Christmas One of several TV specials on this list, this classic stands the test of time with its beloved and iconic characters and message that we shouldn’t let commercialism and fancy decorations take over the holiday season. Christmas Vacation This tops the comedy list and is a must-watch every year. Take a break from your hectic holiday schedule and crazy relatives to de-stress while laughing at a movie all about a dysfunctional family get together, led by it’s well-meaning and loving, but also at times unhinged, patriarch Clark Griswald. Die Hard Some might argue that this isn’t a Christmas movie, that it only coincidentally takes place at a Christmas Party, however, arguments aside, no matter what your stance, it’s a great excuse to watch a great movie. I took a screen writing class in college and this is a film we talked about regularly. Though not necessarily family friendly, it’s a great addition to this list, starring Bruce Willis as John McClane

and Alan Rickman as the charismatic villain Hans Gruber. Possible double feature: “Die Hard 2.” Gremlins No list of Christmas movies is complete without this fun and heartwarming film. There are definitely tragic (the story of Kate’s father) and violent moments, but the film still comes off as fun and features one of the greatest non-human characters (Gizmo) in the history of cinema along with a likable cast as the Peltzer family. It’s a Wonderful Life If there’s a Christmas movie most likely to make you tear up, it might be this one, featuring the story of the ultimate common man, George Bailey, set in Bedford Falls, the ultimate American small town. This truly captures all of life – the joys, the sorrows, the frustrations and how all of the little things we do truly matter. Lethal Weapon Beneath the surface of this buddy cop action movie are some great themes that fit well with Christmas. You have a man on the verge of suicide because he can’t face the holiday season without his wife, who finds reasons to live through his new partner and his family who takes him in as one of them.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” is the longest-running holiday special in television history. (CBS /Landov)

Home Alone If you’re looking for a movie with some good themes about family and friendship where you can also laugh hysterically as a child sadistically tortures a pair of bumbling robbers, than this is the Christmas classic for you. Some movies on this list might have themes th`at children don’t fully comprehend or adult content, but this is a film the whole family can enjoy. Possible double feature: “Home Alone 2.” Miracle on 34th Street (the original) Filled with memorable lines and moments, this movie is truly a Christmas classic, as a man called Kris Kringle ends up on trial to decide whether he is insane or truly is Santa Claus. While determining whether he is Santa Claus or a just a kind old man is left somewhat to the

With wall-to-wall best wishes to all our customers, neighbors and friends at this joyous time of year. It's been a privilege and a pleasure serving people like you.

Happy Holidays From

Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye perform in the film “White Christmas,” in which a pair of entertainers and former Army buddies step up to help their old general. (Courtesy photo)

audience, there is no denying the impact he has in the lives of the three other main characters and countless others. Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer One of two TV specials to make this list, this one-hour show features the classic voice of Burl Ives along with archetypal

heroes and story arcs, as “misfits” Rudolf and Hermey wander off in search of their dreams after rejecting what others tell them they should be and then end up heroes after facing and overcoming many challenges. White Christmas Some of the singing and dancing may threaten

to bore a 21st century audience but this movie remains one of the all-time Christmas classics and reminds you that there is good out there as a pair of entertainers and former Army buddies step up to help their old general. Add in the different journeys the main characters take to find love, and you’ve got a true classic featuring a classic Christmas carol.

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Manistee News Advocate Holiday Edition • Nov. 27, 2019

Tips for safe holiday entertaining in pet friendly households The holidays are a time to spend with friends and family. Celebrating and entertaining are large components of what makes Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah and New Years festivities so enjoyable. Holiday hosts with pets must consider companion animals when planning the festivities. The holiday season brings added dangers for pets. The American Veterinary Association notes that, by keeping hazards in mind, pet owners can ensure their four-legged friends enjoy the season as much as everyone else. • Secure the tree. Securely anchor the Christmas tree so that it won't tip over on anyone, including rambunctious pets. Also, stagnant tree stand water can grow bacteria. If a pet should drink the water, it may end up with nausea or diarrhea. Replenish the tree basin with fresh water daily. • Skip the candles. When creating mood lighting, opt for electronic or battery-powered lights instead of open flames. Pets may knock over candles, and that can be an instant fire hazard. • Keep food out of reach. Situate food

buffets beyond the reach of hungry and curious animals. Warn guests to promptly throw out their

leftovers so that dogs and cats do not sneak away with scraps that may cause stomach upset or worse. Real Simple magazine warns that fatty foods can promote pancreatitis Ñ a potentially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that produces toxic enzymes and causes illness and dehydration. Small bones can get lodged in a petÕs throat or intestines as well.

• Avoid artificial sweeteners. Exercise caution when baking sugar-free desserts. The artificial sweetener xylitol can cause dogs' blood pressure to drop to dangerously low levels. Xylitol is found in some toothpastes and gum, so tell overnight guests to keep their toiletries

secure to avoid accidental exposure. • Be cautious with cocktails. If the celebration will include alcoholic beverages, the ASPCA says to place unattended adult beverages where pets cannot reach them. Ingested alcohol can make pets ill, weak and even induce comas.

• Be picky about plants. Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias can be dangerous in pet-friendly households. These plants can cause gastrointestinal upset and may lead to other problems if ingested. Opt for artificial replicas instead. If guests bring flowers, confirm they are nontoxic to pets before

putting them on display. • Watch the door. Guests going in and out may inadvertently leave doors open. In such instances, pets who get scared or are door dashers may be able to escape the house. Put a note by the door to watch for escaping pets. • Designate a safe space for pets. If the holiday hustle proves too much for cats, dogs, birds, and more, give the pet a safe, quiet spot away from the crowds. Holiday hosts should factor in pet safety when they open their homes to guests.