Reflections winter 2015 web by Sunrise

Page 2 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Newer, healthier you in 2015

Reflections

Choose my plate

PUBlisHeR Elizabeth Gorske Managing editoR Eric Young

10 tips to a great plate

editoRial staff Sherry Barnum Tim Barnum Kimberly Landenberg Jason Ogden Matt Varcak

Making food choices for a healthy lifestyle can be as simple as using these 10 tips. Use the ideas in this list to balance your calories, choose foods to eat more often and cut back on food to eat less often.

1 2

adVeRtising sales Jama Gates Anthony Kachiros Carla Reeves Sherrie Sutherland

balance calories. Find out how many

calories you need for a first step in managing your weight. Being physically active also helps you balance your calories.

coMPosition Sharon Ehlert Jesse Karbowski

enjoy your food, but eat less. Take time

eMail sherrybarnum@ogemawherald.com

to fully enjoy your food as you eat it. Eating too fast or when your attention is elsewhere may lead to eating too many calories. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues before, during and after meals. Use them to recognize when to eat and when you’ve had enough.

cover Photo

Photo by Eric Young

Jane Tennant stands in front of the seal at City Hall.

avoid oversized portions. Use a

Welcome to our new look!

smaller plate, bowl and glass. Portion out foods before you eat. When eating out, choose a smaller size option, share a dish or take home part of your meal.

We are always accepting and looking for new and fresh ideas to include. If you or an organization would like to submit a story or information that would be interesting to our readers, contact Sherry at sherrybarnum@ ogemawherald. com or call 989-345-0044

foods to eat more often. Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fatfree or 1% milk and dairy products. These foods have the nutrients you need for health –– including potassium, calcium, vitamin D and fiber. Make them the basis for meals and snacks.

make half your plate fruits and vegetables.

Choose red, orange and dark-green vegetables like tomatoes, sweet potatoes and broccoli, along with other vegetables for your meals. Add fruit to meals as part of main or side dishes or as dessert.

West Branch Furniture Quality furniture at discounted prices Available in several colors

Furnishings For All Ages

• Recliners • Sofas • Love Seats • Dinette Sets • Bedroom Suites • Serta Mattresses ... and so much more.

switch to fatfree or low-fat (1%) milk.

They have the same amount of calcium and other essential nutrients as whole milk, but fewer calories and less saturated fat.

make half your grains whole grains. To eat more whole grains, sub-

stitute a whole-grain product for a refined product –– such as eating a wholewheat bread instead of white bread, or brown rice instead of white rice.

food to eat less often. Cut back on food high in solid fats, added sugars and salt. They include cakes, cookies, ice cream, candies, sweetened drinks, pizza and fatty meats like ribs, sausages, bacon and hot dogs. Use these foods as occasional treats, not everyday foods.

compare sodium in foods. Use

nutrition facts labels to choose lowersodium versions of foods like soup, bread and frozen meals. Select canned foods labeled “low sodium,” “reduced sodium” or “no salt added.”

drink water instead of sugary drinks. Cut calories by

drinking water or unsweetened beverages. Soda, energy drinks and sports drinks are a major source of added sugar and calories in American diets. InformatIon

coUrtESY of chooSEmYPlatE.gov and thE

D.E. GREENE FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Skidway Lake • 989-873-4111 New patients welcome and seen daily. All walk-ins seen same day.

136 S. Fifth St., West Branch located block south of Firstbank off Houghton Ave.

989-345-5326

*12 Months No Interest

We accept all insurances that cover chiropractic services. Follow our business on:

“The Outlet Store That Saves You More!”

Sunday 11-3 Mon.-Fri. 10-6; Sat. 10-5

USda

degreenefamilychiropractic.com

Office Hours: Mon. & Wed. 8:30-Noon, 3:00-7:00 Tues. 4:00-6:00 Thurs. 3:00-6:00 Fri. 8:30-Noon

Reflections –– Winter 2015— Page 3

Nancy Crane of Mio has been collecting dolls since she was 20 years old. Above are some dolls displayed in one of the three rooms she has filled. Right, Nancy holds a doll that she’s owned since 1941 that she got when she turned 4. The doll, with its original clothing, is named Patsy. JaY ogdEn

Still playing with dolls Nancy Crane shares her love of collecting dolls By sherry Barnum Receiving her first doll at 4 years old, Nancy Crane of Mio, 77, now owns around 2,600 of them. “I have always liked dolls,” Crane said. “And I never had many growing up.” According to Crane, a fashion course in college is what got her started in collecting dolls. “The teacher told us that dolls were a good way of showing what the fashions were and what they were doing at that time of the year in history,” she said. “So it gave me a good excuse to start.” Crane said she started collecting right out

of college. “I was about 20, and the collection has increased to all types of dolls,” Crane said. “And I have three rooms of them.” “I try to get a doll each year that is popular that year, so I have all the years represented,” Crane said. “My oldest doll is a 1880 china head.” Crane said she gets her dolls from all over the place. “A lot of them come from yard sales, nieces and nephews like to have a good place to keep dolls so they come here, and I have several collector companies that I get them from like Austin Drake and Danbury,” Crane said. “And most of them come from

Reverse Mortgages

stores. If I go in and see unusual ones, I buy them. They come from many sources.” Crane said it is hard to choose a favorite one, but the one that she has owned the longest she got when she was 4 and she has kept it all this time. “I have quite a collection of different bride dolls, a large collection of Mattel dolls that are mostly Barbies, some china heads and old and new porcelain ones,” she said. “I’ve made quite a few cloth dolls and I have some limited-edition dolls, and I have some babies.” Crane said she has a few dolls that are still in the box, but she likes to take them out and display them so people can see the

whole thing and get the 365-degree view. She even has a collection of first ladies. “I have most of the first ladies up through Carter,” she said. “I like history and I thought it would be interesting to have them. It started out as a project that I was going to do in three years, but ended up taking me 10.” And collecting isn’t the only thing Crane does for her dolls. She also makes them, makes their clothes and redoes them. “Since I get a lot of things from garage sales the dolls need to be cleaned, redone and washed up to be put into the collection.

See Dolls, 7

989-345-2499 “Family owned since 1973”

Is it right for you?

& Equipment

•Receive payments instead of making them •You retain title to your home. •Use money for home repairs, buying a car whatever you choose! •No repayment due until you sell or vacate your home. •Origination and closing in your home. •Must be at least 62 years of age.

Call for a free no obligation information package

• Commercial •Residential • Agricultural

Toll Free 877-349-0460 Ann Cartier

• Buildings - Metal or Posts & Frames • Pole Barns • Garages • Barns • Dairy Farm Equipment, Supplies & Service

St. Helen, MI

Reverse Mortgage Specialist

www.millerconstequip.com

276 W. M-55 • West Branch Moving Forward in Reverse

NMLS #358332 & #135633

Page 4 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Tennant to retire as city clerk after nearly three decades By eric Young After nearly 30 years of being the clerk and treasurer for the city of West Branch, Jane Tennant is in the process of turning over the reins before her retirement this summer. Jane announced her plans to retire at the end of June a few months ago, and the city has since hired a new clerk/ treasurer to replace her — John Dantzer. Jane has been working with him and continuing her daily duties, and will until she retires. Jane said she started working for the city 38 years ago, in the summer of 1977. “I was in high school, and I was looking for a part-time job,” Jane said. She said she was qualified for a job

under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act. “The city was looking for someone to hire under that program. It just kind of fell into line. I started working parttime during the summer.” During the following winter, she remained on as a part-time employee, earning school credit for her hours worked. “Instead of having classes in the afternoon, you went to your place of employment,” she said. And when the clerk/treasurer position opened up in the late 1980s when Gloria Oswald left it, Jane said she applied for that job and was hired. “I had been here for quite a few

See TennanT, 8

Above, Jane Tennant plants flowers in front of the county building in spring 2014. Left, Jane Tennant sits behind the desk in the city council chambers. ErIc YoUng

Humble Beginnings In 1925, Austin G. Forward, along with a partner, purchased the “Welcome Garage” in Standish, Mich. Their wives opened a small restaurant in the corner of the garage, which consisted of two tables and eight stools. Soon, people heading north knew it as one of the best service stops. In succeeding years, Austin Forward purchased his partner’s share of the business, changed the name to Forward Oil Company and went on to develop a network of Shell Stations in Arenac, Iosco and Ogemaw Counties. In 1955, Austin N. Buttrick and Benjamin G. Buttrick, grandsons of the founder, purchased Forward Oil Company. At that time the jobbership consisted of five Shell stations and one restaurant. The first station, built in 1925 in Standish by Austin G. Forward, had gone through many renovations and was completely destroyed by fire in the ‘70s. Rebuilt at the same location, it stands today and is still referred to as Forward #1. The new owners immediately launched an expansion program. Old stations were remodeled and ultramodern stations and food facilities were constructed. Diversification propelled the company into retailing tires, motor oil, ice, auto parts, and with the purchase of the Ben Good Oil Company, a home and farm fuel delivery division. No longer just an oil company, a name change from Forward Oil Company to Forward Corporation reflected the diversity of products and services.

Expansion Continued Forward Enterprises: As the expressway moved north in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, Forward Corp. moved quickly to join the expressway age. The company built the first service plazas in Standish, Alger and West Branch, offering travelers clean restrooms and the convenience of one-stop shopping for gasoline and food. Having paved the way, Forward was followed by McDonalds, Burger King, and all the other fast food marketers in West Branch. The development continued along I-75 into Grayling and Gaylord. In 1989, with the purchase of the North Central Oil Company, a small Shell Jobbership in Gaylord, Forward added three more Forward Shell Convenience Stores to the north, one in downtown Grayling and two on I-75 in Gaylord at exits 279 and 282. In years to follow, three more stations were added in the Midland and Sanford area and six more in Michigan’s thumb with the purchase of People’s Choice Oil & Gas in the late 1990s. The Forward network now spans a 13 county marketing area and hosts a total of 28 stations, three branded Marathon and 25 Shell, 22 Subway Restaurants, five car washes and the Schnapps & Hops Party Store of Gaylord; all under the banner of Forward Enterprises. The Home, Farm and Commercial Division: In the ‘80s, the purchase of the Schafer Oil Company’s home fuel division in Pinconning increased the customer base and expanded Forward Energy’s operation into Bay County. In 1988 propane was added to the product mix, which spurred further

growth. Deliveries are available from as far south as Linwood, Roscommon to the north, Oscoda to the east and Sanford to the west and still growing. “Growth and Change” is the One Constant at Forward. This year, 2015, marks their 90th Anniversary. In celebration, they are in the process of re-imaging the Forward brand, taking on the “Michigan” theme. Watch for their image upgrades on everything from their trucks and buildings to coffee mugs and reward key fobs. Stopping at a Forward Convenience Store on the way north has been a Michigan tradition for millions and millions of travelers over the last 90 years. For more history, updates and celebrations, watch for the next issue of “Reflections” coming to you the week of April 26, 2015.

219 N. Front St. Standish, MI 989-846-4501

Reflections –– Winter 2015 — Page 5

Creating Confident Caregivers offered at Ogemaw County Commission on Aging Dementia is every day, all day and it progressively gets worse. Family caregivers have a high risk of experiencing a decline in their own well-being. If you or someone you know is caring for a family member with dementia, the Creating Confident Caregivers Program could provide the support and knowledge one needs to reduce the effort of caregiving. “There is a growing population in our community of family members caring for a relative with memory loss. The memory loss issues are to the extent that it is impairing quality of life. These caregivers often forgo their own needs to take care of their loved ones,” said Kara LaMarr of the Region 9 Area Agency on Aging. Caring for a family member who is experiencing memory difficulties can be especially trying. This very dedicated group of people has a higher incident of experiencing stress-related illnesses and caregiver burnout. Most caregivers do not fully understand the disease process or how it drives the actions of family members. There may be angry outbursts, repetitive questions, occasional wandering and many other difficult behaviors. Caregivers often become isolated due to their family member’s unpredictable behavior. “The continuous care required allows

the person with dementia to stay at home, but the caregiver’s well-being often suffers,” she said. “Caregivers often overlook their own needs, which can lead to difficulty in providing care effectively and other emotional concerns.” The Creating Confident Caregivers Program is based on the notion that family members who become caregivers assume a new role in life for which they are unprepared and untrained. Acquiring the knowledge, skills and the attitude necessary to be a caregiver of a person with dementia is essential to be successful and to go through the experience with as much reward and as little distress as possible. Creating Confident Caregivers is available through a federal grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging and the Ogemaw County Commission on Aging. There is no charge to participants for the sessions or materials. This is a six-week workshop that meets for two hours, one day a week. Space is limited for the Confident Caregivers sessions. Classes begin Tuesday, Feb. 24, from 10 to noon at the Ogemaw Commission on Aging. Care for the family member with dementia can be pre-arranged at The Cottage. For more information or to see if you qualify to register contact Carol at 989-3453010, ext. 1807.

Successful ways to stretch retirement savings

The Complete Auto Body Center

West Branch Collision Where Quality Counts

Your #1 Uni-body Frame Specialist Free Estimates Free Loaners Towing Available

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 34 YEARS

Gary Sancrant

989-345-7230

M-F 8-5 • SAT 8-noon www.westbranchcollision.com

mercbank.com West Branch, MI

989-345-7900 PARAMOUNT Rehabilitation Services Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy

Your Orthopedic Specialists Many budding retirees plan to travel, relax and enjoy the company of their spouses when they officially stop working. But such plans only are possible if men and women take steps to secure their financial futures in retirement. According to a recent survey by the personal finance education site MoneyTips.com, roughly one-third of baby boomers have no retirement plan. The reason some may have no plan is they have misconceptions about how much money they will need in retirement. Successful retirees understand the steps to take and how to live on a budget. Have a plan. Many people simply fail to plan for retirement. Even men and women who invest in an employersponsored retirement program, such as a 401(k), should not make that the only retirement planning they do. Speak with a financial adviser who can help you develop a plan that ensures you don't outlive your assets. set reasonable goals. Retirement nest eggs do not need to be enormous. Many retirees have a net worth of less than $1 million, and many people live comfortably on less than $100,000 annually. When planning for retirement, don't be dissuaded because you won't be buying a vineyard or villa in Europe. Set reasonable goals for your retirement and

make sure you meet those goals. Recognize there is no magic wealthbuilding plan. Saving comes down to formulating a plan specific to your goals, resources, abilities and skills. Make saving a priority and take advantage of employer-sponsored retirement programs if they are offered. don't underestimate spending. You will need money in retirement, and it's best that you don't underestimate just how much you're going to need. No one wants to be stuck at home during retirement, when people typically want to enjoy themselves and the freedom that comes with retirement. Speak to a financial planner to develop a reasonable estimate of your living expenses when you plan to retire. Pay down or avoid debt while you can. Retiring with debt is a big risk. Try to eliminate all of your debts before you retire and, once you have, focus your energy on growing your investments and/or saving money for retirement. start early on retirement saving. It's never too early to begin saving for retirement. Although few 20-somethings are thinking about retirement, the earlier you begin to invest, the more time you have to grow your money. Enroll in a retirement plan now so you have a larger nest egg when you reach retirement age.

4489 M-61, Ste. 6 Standish, MI 48658

989-718-3171 Come See Us Today! Prsmichigan.com

We customize our care for your needs. Our caregivers can provide you with services such as: homemaking, respite, nursing, personal care and companionship.

1-877-308-1212 www.CCareMi.com

home will do, we can help.

When only

Page 6 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Alice Smith sits among some of the baskets she has made.

& SON

Well Drilling

ShErrY BarnUm

Division of A & B Webb Enterprises, Inc.

Wells • Pumps • Softeners • Purification Systems Repairs and Service 3120 M-65 Hale, MI 49739

989-728-4011

BASKETS BY ALICE

Preparing America’s Taxes Since 1955

One Bedroom Apartments

Wish you were here!

For Persons 62+ Pet Friendly Free Heat, Water & Electric Extra Storage Affordable HUD Rents Planned Activities

AuSable Valley Apartments

And More

Buresh

Funeral Homes and Cremation Center

1441 Maple Dr. Fairview, MI

989-848-2104

Serving families with compassion since 1897

Cemetery Monuments Complete Pre-arrangement Needs

Twining 15 W. Maple Ridge Rd.

989-867-4237

Au Gres 101 E. Michigan Ave.

989-876-8525

Other locations: Oscoda, Prescott, Hale & Tawas City

By sherry Barnum Frequenting more than 10 bazaars last year, Alice Smith, 63, of Standish has been making baskets after taking a class with her sister-in-law on a weekend long ago. “I would go down to my sister-inlaw’s frequently on weekends, and one weekend when I was down there I asked her what we were going to do and she suggested we make a basket. So we made a basket and here I am,” Smith said. Smith said she started making baskets when her son Nathan was 12. “I’ve been doing it for about 25 years now,” Smith said. “Up until the last couple of years I’ve just made baskets for gifts and if someone wanted one.” Smith said people would request what they wanted and she would make them a basket because she liked to do them. After that, Smith decided to take her baskets on the road. “Sue Stein caught me one time and asked me to come to the sidewalk sales at the car show, so I did,” she said. “Then I did Depot Days, and a couple

bazaars at the hospital. I stayed local and did a couple little shows around here.” “Then a couple years ago I branched out,” Smith said. “And I think I overdid it last year.” Smith said she attended 12 shows this past summer and has been all over the state of Michigan, from Charlevoix to Fenton to Frankenmuth to Indian River. According to Smith, her favorite thing about taking her baskets on the road is all the interesting people she meets. “I like people, I’m a people person,” she said. “And you wouldn’t believe all the Alices I have met. When I went to school I was the only Alice all the way through except my first-grade teacher; now I have met more Alices than I can count.” “One show I was doing in Fenton a woman walked up to me and said, ‘You’re Alice, I’m Alice,’ and she said, ‘What’s your last name?’ and I said, ‘Smith,’ and we chitchatted for a while only to find out that we had the same initials but different middle names.”

See sMITH, 9

F u l l rnitur i H k a e O & Fabrics

• Fabrics • Yarn • Wood Crafts • Quilts • Handmade Children’s Furniture & Toys • Rhythm Clocks • Solid Wood Furniture • Outdoor Poly Furniture and more! 1734 Galbraith

Co. Rd. 608/

Miller Rd. Fairview

Kittle Road

M-33

620 S. Morenci, Mio, MI 48647 989-826-6521 989-826-6040 (fax) dblamer@hrblock.com • www.hrblock.com

Smith keeps busy with basket making, craft shows

Master Tax Advisor Franchisee

Galbraith Road

Daniel L. Blamer, EA

Mio

1734 Galbraith Rd., Mio, MI 48647

989-826-1913

All Furniture Made in the USA! Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 8:30 am-5 pm Closed: Wed. & Sun.

Melvin & Betty Byler

Reflections –– Winter 2015 — Page 7

Dolls: Crane stays active in community through service FRoM PaGe 3 I also do it for people who want to have dolls done too,” she said. “I just like to sew and it’s fun to see them. Every doll turns out a little bit different, and I enjoy making them.” Crane said when she isn’t redoing dolls or collecting them, she stays active many other ways within the community. “I’m very active within the United Methodist Church and mission projects that they take on, the Mio Study Club and Red Hats,” she said. “I am also working parttime as the deputy treasurer for Mentor Township.” Crane said one of the projects that she has been working on is putting together bears for cancer patients. “Our church has a group that meets to put together free prayer bears for cancer patients,” she said. “We have done more than 600 bears, and we try to get them done as quickly as we can if we know someone needs one.”

Crane said the idea for the bears came from a lady within the community. “A lady in the community, who is now passed away, called me up to help because she knew I like to sew,” Crane said. “It started out as just cutting out patterns for 50 of these bears for someone in Detroit. And I thought, ‘Why are we just cutting these? We could be sewing them too,’ so some more people got involved, and we started making the bears and gave them out all to hospitals all over the country.” Crane was also a home economics teacher for 29 years, with 20 years at Mio AuSable Schools, and served in the Peace Corps. “I served in Brazil in the early ’60s, which got me collecting foreign dolls,” she said. “I felt it was a very good program and it was something I believed in –– helping people help themselves — and it’s a good way to work toward peace. Plus I always wanted to see different countries, and this was a good way to do that.”

Above, Nancy replaces a missing shoe on one of her dolls. Right, Nancy’s collection includes a “commercial” section, which features dolls used for advertisements. Left, this World War II era doll features a Canadian soldier wearing an air force uniform.

A family owned and operated dealership since 1966. Third & Fourth Generations of Hodges bringing you more smiles per mile! Your Home Team Advantage

CHEVROLET CHRYSLER

DODGE RAM

JEEP

www.teamhodges.com

2265 South M-76 West Branch

Local 989-345-1022 Toll Free 1-877-345-1022

Sales: Mon.-Fri. 8-6; Sat. 9-2 Service: Mon.-Fri. 8-5:30; Sat. 9-2

Page 8 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Tennant: Retires after 38 years of service FRoM PaGe 4 years when I took that position,” she said. “Having worked in that field for a number of years, I put in for her position.” And the job has been a good fit for Jane. “I like the diversity,” she said. “I never do the same thing every day. There’s a variety of jobs that need to be done. And I like working with the people.” She said there are a lot of different aspects to her job. One of the largest parts of the job, Jane said, is doing the water and sewer billing for the city, as well as tax collection. “I work with the cemetery; I work with payroll,” Jane said. “I work with MDOT, billing them for work that we do. That’s a lot of the finance part of it.” She also is in charge of keeping the records of the city and coming up with new and innovative ways to do that. She takes the minutes for a number of

boards, including the West Branch City Council meetings held twice a month. She also works with the county during elections. And on at least three different occasions, she has served as the interim city manager when the position has been vacant. “I think three times as city manager,” she said. “Or four. I’ve lost track.” During the last 27 years or so, Jane has been one of the faces of West Branch — you often see her if you stop into City Hall to pay your water bill or to get information about something. She has also gained a lot of knowledge about the city, becoming a sort of historian at city council meetings when there is a question about something that has happened in the past. With her role in the city, Jane has been one of the people who have shaped the city over the past nearly three decades. But she is pretty modest about that. “I don’t really think about that,” Jane said. “I look at it as teamwork — people

working well together to accomplish what we feel and what the taxpayer feels is best for them. Or should I say the majority of the taxpayers? It’s more of a teamwork type of thing. And we’ve always had a good team.” Jane said during her time at the city, she has met and worked with a lot of interesting people whom she has a lot of respect for. “Bernie Olson, who was the first city manager the city had,” she said. She said in her position, she works a lot with the Department of Public Works superintendents. “Steven Norton, Tom Brindley, Richard Dack, because we work really closely with the DPW,” Jane said. “Paul Longstreet and Howie as police chief, and now Rodger (Williams), and Dennis (Jameson) as DPW supervisor.” “Along with the city manager would be Pat McGinnis, because he was here a long time and had quite an impact on the city,” Jane continued. “As mayor, Dick

Werth and Todd (Thompson).” Jane has been married to her husband, Art Tennant, for 38 years. They have four children, all of whom have grown and gotten married and have children of their own. In her spare time, she plays the organ and piano for St. John Lutheran Church. “It’s a lot of fun to do that,” she said. “I also like to watch and play with my grandchildren.” She said she also does handwork, including cross-stitch and knitting, and she dabbles in other crafts. She said the thing she will miss most about her job is working with the people. And her plans once she retires? Working with people, of course. “My plans are to work with people, volunteer,” she said. “I still have to finalize some of those plans. I want to, whether it’s volunteering at the school or the food bank. I have several opportunities through our church also for volunteer work, so I’m going to pursue that.”

Looking for something to do? Check out these activities: Sunrise Side Senior Center (Arenac County):

Ogemaw County Commission on Aging, “My Place”:

Monday: live music (10:30 a.m.) and Penny Bingo (12:40 p.m.) Tuesday: Exercise clinic (11 a.m.), Bingo (12:40 p.m.) and Bridge (12:40 p.m.) Wednesday: carvers (9 a.m.), healing together (10 a.m.), Exercise class (11 a.m.) and Euchre (12:40 p.m.) Thursday: live music (10:30 a.m.), Pinochle (12:40 p.m.) and Swedish Weaving class (12:45 p.m.) Friday: Bingo (12:40 p.m.)

*Schedules subject to change

210 Wilson Street Alpena, MI 49707

Live on the Sunrise Side Call 989-356-6725 • Live in a comfortable, affordable, smoke-free retirement apartment where “community” is our middle name. • For seniors 62 and older. Rent is based on 30% of adjusted income. • Utilities and maintenance included. Onsite property manager and service coordinator. • Exercise/computer room and monthly activities.

Originally established in 1906, our business is one of caring compassion and service to area families for over a century. We offer a warm, comfortable place to gather with friends and family to honor the memory of a loved one. We personalize our services to meet your needs and budget. We offer funeral services, cremation, preplanning and headstones. Free free to contact us at anytime with any questions.

Reflections –– Winter 2015— Page 9

Smith displays some of the baskets that she has made. ShErrY BarnUm

Smith: maintains many hobbies, including crocheting, sewing and gardening FRoM PaGe 6 “I mean, what are the odds that there are two people with that same middle initial and same blond hair and blue eyes?” Smith said. “You meet a lot of interesting people going to shows, and it gives my husband and I time away.” “It’s just a fun thing to do, and I needed one more thing to do in my life,” Smith said. Smith, who also offers classes on basket making, said no two baskets are the same. “You can use the same pattern when you start making a basket, but you change one little thing and it’s a completely different basket,” she said. “And

the thing I enjoy about teaching classes is the satisfaction on their faces when they get done making them.” Smith said she got started in teaching classes after someone from East Tawas called her and asked her to do a class for a home-school group. “I got a phone call from a lady in East Tawas saying a couple years ago I came up and taught a basket class. I told her no, I didn’t, that it was my sister-in-law, and she asked if she would be interested in coming up to teach, and I thought I don’t think so, she has gotten older and was having some problems with her knees and hips, and then she asked if I

would consider it,” Smith said. “Up to that point there was no way I was teaching, so I said I suppose I could –– I mean, what the heck, I’ll try it, and if I didn’t like it I wouldn’t do it again –– so she came out and picked out a basket for me to teach, and it was a pretty difficult basket, she said that the class would consist of 6-year-olds and their mothers; I told her I would have to know how many people were in the class so I could make up kits. She called me back and told me there would be around 25 people in my first class.” “But I made it through. It was a challenge, we started at 12:30 p.m. and I

pulled out of there around 9:30 at night, and she called the next year and I went back again,” Smith said. “Since then it’s no big deal, but at first it was shocking to me.” “I enjoy teaching classes, and I’ve met quite a few people through them,” she said. “My favorite thing about it is seeing the look on their faces – it’s like wow, I made this and it looks good.” According to Smith, when she is not making baskets she enjoys sewing, embroidering, crocheting, baking and gardening, and she is also on the committee for the mobile food pantry at Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

FIRST FITNESS

520 W. Houghton Ave. (Next to Mercantile Bank) • 989-343-1238 facebook.com/firstfitness.wb

Colvin’s Plumbing & Heating

989-728-5955 Hale, MI Make your health a priority this year! Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6am-8pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 1pm-4pm Mercantile Bank Account Holders Discount: $25/mo. • Seniors (62+) $17.50 Other Rates: 1 month $35 • 3 mo. $90 • 6 mo. $168, 1 year $300 • Day pass $6 • Week pass $20, 10 Punch pass (no expiration) $30 New and upgraded equipment! Variety of commercial grade equipment with something for everyone. Private exercise room with Pilates classes Tues./Thurs. 5:30 pm and Step Aerobics Wed. 5:30 pm and Sat. 9 am. $5/class. No membership required. Side exercise room open for member use during non-class hours. Clean and friendly atmosphere. 2 certified personal trainers on staff to help get you started and meet your goals.

Colvin’s Plumbing & Heating

Page 10 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Peace Tree Station Stop in for new, original and unique one-of-a-kind merchandise. If we don’t have it, we can find it! Wide selection of books on an array of topics.

Rose City Chiropractic Clinic, P.C.

Now offering 20% OFF any used book to our senior citizens

Peace Tree Station (Formerly Downtown Books)

308 W. Houghton Ave. West Branch, MI

989-701-2705

Kendall R. Paulson, D.C.

Alexis M. Wangler, D.C.

Dedicated to Your Health and Satisfaction “I have been completely satisfied with my experience at the Rose City Chiropractic Clinic.” -Amy

Green

Hardware

WE CARRY: • Hardware and Tools • Paint and Supplies • Cards, Gifts and Candles • We service all makes of power equipment

“The entire staff, including the Massage Therapist, has been very helpful and kind.” -D.P. “I have seen Dr. Paulson & Dr. Wangler and have had excellent results from my visits.” -Donna Karapandza

10% Discount For

Open 6 Days Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9 am - 6 pm; Massage Tuesday 2-6 pm • Saturday 9 am - Noon Therapy

989-685-2631

4-Week Low Impact Exercise Class Green

Hardware

West Branch • 989-345-0020 2106 South M-76 (Next to Kmart)

Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express honored at participating Ace Stores

www.greenace.com

NOTICE TO ALL ARENAC COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS: Sunrise Side Senior Services

Starting February 3, 2015 Tuesdays and Thursdays • 6:00 to 7:00 PM Recognized by BC/BS for performance and best practice decision making.

www.rosecitychiropractic.com

The Horizon Senior Living Communities www.thehorizonseniorliving.com

Located in the TrackSide Senior Center 131 Clyde Street • Omer

Standish 218 Airpark Dr. 989-846-0000

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: Light Housekeeping, Personal Care and Respite Caring Service, Adult Day Care Center, Lunches, Loan-Closet, Activities, Informational Speakers, Entertainment, Crafts, Medicare & Prescription Drug Information & Assistance, Alzheimer’s Support Group, Project Fresh Site, Flu Shot Clinics, Congregate Luncheons - Monday thru Friday, 12 noon.

horizon.standish@yahoo.com

Gladwin 450 Quarter Street 989-246-1000 gladwinhorizon@sbcglobal.net

St. Helen 10059 E. Airport 989-389-4900

We’ll answer all your questions! We play Bingo before lunch on Monday thru Wednesday & Friday starting at 10:30 a.m. Euchre is played following lunch on Tuesday & Thursday EVERYONE IS WELCOME - JOIN IN, JOIN US... Arenac County’s “one-stop” for all Senior Citizen Assistance.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP... JUST CALL US 989-653-2692

horizonafc@sbcglobal.net The mission of The Horizon Senior Living is to provide a home-like setting for the care of the elderly. It is the desire of this company to provide the least restrictive environment possible that will maximize the social and psychological growth of the residents. The goal of our service is for our residents to remain as self-sufficient as possible and for their needs to be met in a dignified and humane manner. Memory care is a fundamental service we strive to provide to all our residents.

Clare 1324 Vinewood Ave. 989-386-4900 horizon-clare@sbcglobal.net

West Branch 613 Progress St. 989-343-9404 horizon-westbranch@att.net

Reflections –– Winter 2015—Page 11

. From the archives..

Remember when? What year was Omer affected by a severe ice storm that left most without power?

ROYALTY CROWNED –– royalty for the fourth annual mills township Winter carnival were crowned on friday night at St. Stephen’s church. named king and queen were Ed hadd and Elsie Parry; prince was mickey Weir, and Barb thorton was princess. Do you remember what year the fourth annual Mills Township Carnival took place?

this picture was taken in mio after a huge snowstorm in february 1942, according to area historian cody rossen. Do you know which intersection is shown in this picture and where it is located?

PIctUrES

coUrtESY of thE

arEnac coUntY hIStorIcal SocIEtY, ogEmaW coUntY hErald and codY roSSEn

The first correct answers called in to our office will receive a complimentary 6-month subscription. Call today - Arenac County Independent: 989-846-4531; Ogemaw County Herald: 989-345-0044 or Oscoda County Herald: 989-826-5047.

Page 12 — Reflections –– Winter 2015

Rose City Drug

Next to Family Fare 2640 North M-33 Rose City, MI

The Connection To Your Health. 989-685-2141 • Toll Free: 877-444-2141 www.rosecitydrug.com Also visit us at

WE ARE THE PHARMACY That Really Cares about our PATIENTS ... We beat or meet all our Competitors’ prices!! (on most medications) We offer automatic fills on all your prescriptions. We can fill MOST Prescriptions within 10 minutes Our Parata Max Robotically Controlled Prescription Machine guarantees accurate & sanitary prescriptions.

We bill Medicaid, Medicaid HMO, Medicare Advantage plans for 90-day prescriptions including retired teachers & auto workers.

Medical Supply Shop 130 E. Cedar St. Standish, MI

989-718-3331 For medical supplies & equipment

DON’T GET THE FLU! We have Flu Vaccines for 3 year olds to 64 year olds.

Michigan’s most unique gift shop... We have a gift for even the pickiest person on your shopping list!

DA VINCI BEADS EARRINGS - BRACELETS - NECKLACES

Many new beads have arrived.

Buy 4 beads ~ get 1 free!

Cash Only Special on Lift Chairs

20%OFF

Cash purchases only. While supplies last. See store for details.

SEE US TODAY FOR: • Wheelchairs • Lift Chairs • Wound Care • Ostomy Supplies • Nebulizers • Scooters • Incontinence Supplies • Bathroom Aids Crutches, Walkers, Canes, Splints, Slings & Braces

We have “High Dose” Flu Vaccines for 65+ year olds. We also have Pneumonia and Shingles Vaccines. Promise not to hurt by “Painless Bill”