Page 2 — Reflections –– Winter 2015
Take a ride down the Sunrise Coast Birding Trail
ReflectionS PUBliSHeR Elizabeth Gorske Managing editoR Eric Young editoRial Staff Sherry Barnum Tim Barnum Kimberly Landenberg Jason Ogden Matt Varcak
By Sherry Barnum Looking for a fun way to spend the day? The Sunrise Coast Birding Trail gives bird watchers a chance to not only see common, but threatened and endangered birds as well. “The Sunrise Coast Trail begins in Oscoda at Shoreline Park at the mouth of the Au Sable River,” Denise Cline, chief planner and deputy director of the Northeast Michigan Council of Governments, said. “And it ends 145 miles up the coast in Mackinaw City where there are two hawk watch sites.” Cline said the trail connects to the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail, which starts at Tuttle Marsh between Tawas and Oscoda and ends in Port Austin. “Orange Sunrise Coast Birding Trail signs are currently being posted at most of the sites to help people locate the birding
adVeRtiSing SaleS Kim Ferguson Cozad Jama Gates Anthony Kachiros Carla Reeves coMPoSition Sharon Ehlert eMail sherrybarnum@ogemawherald.com cover Photo
Photo by Sherry Barnum
Spike Cooper, Harold Stanley and his dog Zip stand in Coopersville.
See Trail, 13
Getting involved United Way of Bay County offers volunteer opportunities for retired seniors By Sherry Barnum Are you retired and looking for something to do, but not looking for a fulltime job? What about volunteering? Volunteering can give you something to do, while making an impact in someone else’s life. Jen Idalski of the United Way of Bay County said the Retired Senior Volunteer Program is for people 55 or older. “We currently have more than 100 volunteers involved in the program,” Idalski said. “And we serve Bay County, but the potential is there to expand services to other counties that do not have RSVP programs.” Idalski said the program partners with
E
wo e g d
od Gree
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ns
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23 agencies that have signed agreements. “Among them are the Division on Aging, state park, literacy council and Bay Medical Care Facility,” she said. “The possibilities are endless for our volunteers; from tutoring, tax preparation, home repairs and making weekly calls to isolated seniors.” Idalski said if anyone is interested in getting involved with RSVP they can contact her at the United Way at 989-8937508 ext. 15, or email jen@unitedwaybaycounty.org to discuss available opportunities. “We give potential volunteers a list with focus areas so we can hone in on your interests,” she said. “And we would love to have more tutors and friendly callers.”
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Across from McDonald’s
989-686-3160
Reflections –– Spring 2015 –– Page 3
Writing
With fire By Sherry Barnum For some, a piece of wood may just look good in a fire, but for Shelly Basselman it’s a piece of art. Basselman said she has been doing wood burning for about 15 years. Dictionary.com defines wood burning or pyrography as the art or process of burning designs on wood or leather with heated tools or a flame. “I actually saw a piece in a store and thought it was beautiful but too costly for me to buy,” she said. “So I started doodling, and I’ve kept with it.” Basselman said she enjoys the challenge of it and the artwork. “The wildlife scenes are my favorite,” she said. “And everything is drawn freehand. If I
Shelly Basselman works on her latest project.
see something I like, I will make a pattern for it.” “Sometimes I’ll stick a piece of carbon underneath the picture and trace it out, if there is a lot in the picture,” she said. “But for the most part everything is freehand.” Basselman said the process of making a wood-burned piece is quite extensive. “First you have to find the wood,” she said. “Then you have to wash it, dry it and sand it. It’s a longer process than a lot of people realize.” “Sometimes I bleach the wood to get a nice white finish on it, and there is a lot of sanding involved,” Basselman said. She said it could take anywhere from a couple days to a couple years for a piece of
See Fire, 11
Above is a piece of work that Basselman has hanging in her living room. Left is one of her Detroit Tigers pieces. PictureS
By
Sherry Barnum
Forward Celebrating 90 Years of Service to the Traveling Public Continues… This year, 2015, marks Forward’s 90th Anniversary. Over the years, a stop at a Forward Plaza has grown to be a tradition for many tourists on their way up north. The plazas, located on I-75, offered travelers a break from the road, a chance to refuel, visit a clean restroom, restock their snacks and beverages and pick up a souvenir.
McTaggart Wholesale Merges with Forward Corporation McTaggart Wholesale of Standish was a major supplier of the tourist gift items available in Forward stores. In 1987, since Forward and McTaggart Wholesale were already sharing management personnel, Austin Buttrick, president of Forward Corporation, and Terry McTaggart, vice president of Forward Corporation as well as president of McTaggart Wholesale, negotiated a merger. The merger made McTaggart Wholesale the newest member of the Forward family of businesses. It provided Forward the assurance of a dependable flow of high quality merchandise and McTaggart Wholesale the leverage they needed to build the business into what it is today.
New Name to Reflect Arrival into an Up-Scale Market The name change from McTaggart Wholesale to T.R. McTaggart reflected the arrival of the T.R. McTaggart brand into the upscale world of image wear. Creative and interesting designs caught the eye of buyers all over the United States. Independent sales representatives picked up the line, and soon T.R. McTaggart garments could be found throughout the country. Today, the name T.R. McTaggart is recognized as an industry leader in imprinted apparel.
Emily Mallory & Abby Moniz Terry & Robin McTaggart
Kristin & Co. Soy Candle Company In May of 2005, the acquisition of the Kristin & Co. Soy Candle Company added a new dimension to the T.R. McTaggart product line. These candles are best known for their long lasting and clean burning qualities with an amazing scent throw. The addition of the candle line was a perfect fit for T.R. McTaggart operations. Many synergies were realized in the sharing of space in production and warehousing, the sales force, distribution network and a cross-trained staff. T.R. McTaggart markets its products to organizations, event promoters, schools and corporate buyers of image wear, advertising specialties and gift items. Family Company Now in Its 5th Generation CEO Terry and Robin McTaggart, and daughters Abby Moniz, chief operating officer, and Emily Mallory, chief marketing officer, represent the 4th & 5th generations at the helm in this family business. At a recent corporate awards event, Moniz said, “We are proud of what our Forward family has accomplished over the years. The foresight and vision of our grandparents and parents, and the hard work and dedication of our associates made this 90th Anniversary celebration possible. The longevity of our associates with Forward is something of which we are very proud. You have helped us achieve 90 years in business throughout five generations, a feat that less than 1% of family-owned businesses achieve and we can’t thank you enough. Emily and I hope to continue in the same path as our grandparents and parents. Our corporate objective is to provide our customers with the highest level of customer care, and to continuously improve our processes, quality products and image. Forward’s continued growth will be built upon a foundation of mutual trust and respect among all employees with everyone enjoying the opportunity to gain by being a part of Forward.”
From the left - back row: Brandon Bessey, Ken MacDonald, Marylynn Morton, Deb Loper, Tommy Klopf. 3rd row: Jeff Poirier, Teresa Koth, Tylor Kohn, Tanya McClain, Dani Munsch, Linda Card, Rod Russell, Tina DeBolt - General Manager, Jason Dillon. 2nd row: Trishia Scoles, Cathy Heinitz, Cindy Groh, Tracie Warner, Irene Jantz, Monica Slater, Sue Krzysik. 1st row: Alyssa White, Erin Russell, Brenda Castle, Deb Wilson, Brooke Reid, Brittany Brissette. Missing from photo: John Rudberg, Theresa Cramer, Ethan KIopf and Kristie Butler.
Page 4 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
Above is a picture of the entrance way at Coopersville. Left, Spike Cooper and Harold Stanley stand with dog Zip inside the town they built. Sherry Barnum
Stepping back in time By Sherry Barnum A mile down an old dirt road and to the left there lies an Old West town called Coopersville, where everyone is welcome and no one is ever turned away. Spike Cooper, 69, said he had always dreamed of owning his own town and made his dream a reality in 2013. “The saloon was the first building when the project started in March 2013,” Cooper said. “There are 14 buildings, and they are all hand-built.” Cooper said the idea of building an Old West town came about after his best friend passed away.
“My best friend used to live here and I lived across the road. Now I’ve had a lot of things, but one thing I’ve never had was my own town,” he said. “And one thing I’ve always wanted was to build an old western town because I’m a big John Wayne fan.” Cooper said John Wayne has always been his hero, so the western theme just seemed right. “John Wayne has always been my hero because he stands for what I believe in,” Cooper said. “I believe in honesty and trust, and these were things he believed in. He was a real live hero –– he may not be able to fly or wear his pants down around his knees but he was a real
hero to a lot of people.” Cooper said he has always collected John Wayne memorabilia since he was little. “I have tons and tons of John Wayne stuff, probably more than anyone knows –– it’s kind of an obsession,” Cooper said. “Some people like collecting cars, I like collecting John Wayne memorabilia.” And the town allows Cooper to display some of his memorabilia, starting with the John Wayne Saloon. “Once we started building it just kept growing and
See CoopersVille, 8
NOTICE TO ALL ARENAC COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS: Sunrise Side Senior Services 131 Clyde Street • Omer WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING IN-HOME SERVICES: Light Housekeeping, Personal Care, Home Delivered Meals and Respite Services. ON-SITE SERVICES THAT WE OFFER: Adult Day Care Center, Loan-Closet, Activities, Informational Speakers, Crafts, Best Foot Forward Exercise Class, Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Counselor, Alzheimer’s Support Group, Project Fresh Coupons, and Congregate Luncheons - Monday thru Friday at noon. We’ll answer all your questions! We play Bingo at 10:30 am Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Euchre is played following lunch on Tuesday and Thursday.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME - JOIN IN, JOIN US... Arenac County’s “one-stop” for all Senior Citizens who need assistance.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP... JUST GIVE US A CALL
989-653-2692
Reflections –– Spring 2015 — Page 5
Managing Concerns About Falls Submitted by Sharon Burdine, Ogemaw County Commission on Aging Have you turned down a chance to go out with family or friends because you were concerned about falling? Have you cut down on a favorite activity because you might fall? If so, “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls” is a program for you. Fear of falling can be just as dangerous as falling itself. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in severe physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. Many older adults also experience increased isolation and depression when they limit their interactions with family and friends. “A Matter of Balance” can help people improve their quality of life and
remain independent. “A Matter of Balance” is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. By attending eight two hour sessions held once a week, participants learn to set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors and learn simple exercises to increase strength and balance. Ogemaw Commission on Aging is offering “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls” on Fridays, beginning in the fall, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. This class is free. A workbook is provided and refreshments will be served. Class space is limited. For more information or to register contact the Ogemaw Commission on Aging at 989-345-3010 ext. 1802.
Snack foods that promote better sleep According to the National Sleep Foundation, changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process. Many people experience difficulty falling asleep and then staying asleep as they age, and that difficulty can make men and women over 50 feel more tired during the day. But even though difficulty sleeping may be a part of aging, that does not mean men and women over 50 cannot take steps to improve their sleep patterns. For example, certain snack foods may help to improve quality of sleep, especially when these foods replace less healthy snacking options. While men and women over 50 should always consult with their physicians before making any changes to their diets, AARP notes that the following are a handful of snack foods that promote better sleep. • Almonds: Magnesium is a mineral with muscle-relaxing properties, and almonds contain enough magnesium to help men and women get a better night's sleep. A small amount of almonds before bed might be enough to make falling and staying asleep easier. • Bananas: Much like almonds, bananas provide a substantial amount of magnesium. Bananas also contain the amino acid tryptophan, which many people associate with Thanksgiving turkey. While tryptophan might be most often associated with the sleepiness people feel after eating a holiday meal, it also has been linked to better sleep quality, so a banana shortly before bed might be just what you
need to fall and stay asleep. • Cheese and crackers: One more traditional snack may just help you get a better night's sleep. Cheese and crackers contain tryptophan and carbohydrates, which can induce a better night's sleep and help you fall asleep sooner. • Cherries: Cherries contain the sleep hormone melatonin, and AARP notes that recent studies indicated that participants who drank tart cherry juice on a daily basis fell asleep more quickly and slept longer and better than participants who did not. • Hummus: The primary ingredient in hummus is chickpeas, which are loaded with tryptophan, folate and vitamin B6. Folate has proven especially beneficial to older men and women who need help regulating their sleep patterns, while vitamin B6 helps the body regulate its clock. • Peanut butter: Peanut butter is another snacking item loaded with tryptophan. Spread some peanut butter on a carbohydrate, whether it's a slice of toast or some crackers, before going to bed, and you may enjoy a better, longer sleep. • Walnuts: Like cherries, walnuts contain melatonin, which can contribute to a longer, more restful night's sleep. Walnuts also can help regulate stress, which is a leading cause of sleeping difficulty. Many men and women experience difficulty sleeping as they age. But the right foods may just help combat such problems and help men and women get a more adequate night's sleep
STERLING AREA HEALTH CENTER Make us your Health Home www.sterlinghealth.net Reduced rates available to low income patients. Most insurances accepted, including Medicare & Medicaid.
• Primary Care • Dental • After Hours Clinic • Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services
3 Locations to better serve your health care needs. Sterling Area Health Sterling Area Health Ogemaw Clinic Center Center 1827 E. Greenwood Rd. Dental Clinic 725 E. State St., Sterling Prescott 5095 Rifle River Trail, Alger 989-654-2491 Primary Care After Hours Clinic 989-654-3666 989-873-5152 989-873-6200 Mental Health/Substance Abuse Dental Clinic also accepts Adult & Child Medicaid
Services 989-654-3501
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FIRST FITNESS
520 W. Houghton Ave. (Next to Mercantile Bank) • 989-343-1238 facebook.com/firstfitness.wb
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.
Page 6 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
Buresh
Funeral Homes and Cremation Center
no sign of slowing down
Serving families with compassion since 1897
Cemetery Monuments Complete Pre-arrangement Needs
By Sherry Barnum
Twining 15 W. Maple Ridge Rd.
Au Gres 101 E. Michigan Ave.
989-867-4237
989-876-8525
Other locations: Oscoda, Prescott, Hale & Tawas City
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
Peace Tree Station Stop in for new, original and unique one-of-a-kind merchandise.
Join us for our GRAND OPENING May 11-16! Book Signings: Jay Fiondella • Saturday, May 9 • 1pm – 4pm Marylou Bugh • Tuesday, May 12 • 1pm – 4pm Tom Ebelt • Thursday, May 14 • 1pm – 4pm Popular Children’s author Kevin White will be reading and signing books Friday, May 15
Peace Tree Station (Formerly Downtown Books)
Green
Although John Kulhavi, 72, of White Lake has a long list of accomplishments, he will be the first to tell you he is still a country boy who grew up in Skidway Lake. Kulhavi graduated from WhittemorePrescott in 1960. “I went to West Branch for two years, then we moved to Hamtramck, then we moved back up north to Skidway,” Kulhavi said. “I started at Whittemore-Prescott my sophomore year and graduated from there.” Kulhavi said he was involved with a lot of things at Whittemore-Prescott. His parents even owned Skidway Lake Grocery. After Kulhavi graduated from W-P, he packed his bags and headed to Central Michigan University. “No one in my family had ever gone to college,” Kulhavi said. “My mother and father were factory workers, and my belief was if you wanted to get ahead in the world you had to go to college.” Kulhavi said he graduated from CMU in 1965 with two degrees and afterward went on active duty with the military. But during his time at CMU he served as the president of his fraternity and as part of the ROTC. “I joined the ROTC for two reasons. The first, I come from a very patriotic background and admire the military,” he said. “The second reason, in all honesty, because you got paid $27 a month if you stayed in the ROTC.” Kulhavi said the ROTC started a flight program the year after he was scheduled to graduate from CMU. “It was a screwy deal,” he said. “They started the program after I graduated from CMU, so I enrolled in the first class.” “I’d never flown in my life and you couldn’t be in the program as a graduate, so I decided not to graduate,” Kulhavi said. “When I graduated I graduated with two degrees.” After graduation, Kulhavi went into active duty with the Army, serving as a tank commander. Kulhavi also served a tour of Vietnam, where he was shot down twice. “I was at Fort Rucker for a couple of months, where I received 100 hours of flying time, then went to Vietnam,” Kulhavi said. “Then I came back as an instructor in
John Kulhavi
“
I was given responsibilities at a young age that taught me a bit about how people react under pressure.” — John Kulhavi
Texas.” Kulhavi said he tried civilian life after his tour of Vietnam when his first daughter was born. “I liked it fine,” he said. “Two weeks after active duty I interviewed for a position at Merrill Lynch and have been here for most of my career.” “I had the best of both worlds,” he said. “I still was active in the military and served in Desert Storm. When I retired I retired as a brigadier general in the U.S. Army Reserve.” When Kulhavi finished his time with the military he received 43 awards.
See KulhaVi, 10
308 W. Houghton Ave., West Branch, MI
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Maria Hidalgo shakes hands with commencement keynote speaker General John Kulhavi during the 2011 Whittemore-Prescott commencement ceremony. File
Photo/ogemaw
county herald
Reflections –– Spring 2015 — Page 7
tip-offs
Defensive moves against scammers
to
telephone scams
• Don’t be pressured to make an immediate decision. • Don’t give your credit card, checking account, or Social Security number to unknown callers. • Don’t buy something merely because you’ll get a free gift. • Don’t invest your money with an unknown caller who insists you make up your mind right away. • Get all information in writing before you agree to buy.
Fraudulent telemarketers often use phrases like these –– “You’ve been specially selected to hear this offer.” “You’ll get a wonderful free bonus if you buy our product.” “You’ve won one of five valuable prizes.” “You’ve won big money in a foreign lottery.” “You must send money right away.” “This investment is low-risk and provides a high return than you can get anywhere else.” “You have to make up your mind right away.” “We’ll just put the shipping and handling charges on your credit card.” tiPS
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Looking for something to do? Check out these activities: Sunrise Side Senior Center (Arenac County):
Ogemaw County Commission on Aging, “My Place”:
Monday: Bingo (10:30-11:30 a.m.) Tuesday: Best Foot Forward exercise Program (12:45 p.m.) and euchre (12:45 p.m.) Wednesday: Bingo (10:30-11:30 a.m.) Thursday: wood carving (9:30-11:30 a.m.), Best Foot Forward exercise Program (12:45 p.m.) and euchre (12:45 p.m.) Friday: Bingo (10:30-11:30 a.m.)
Monday: live music (10:30 a.m.) and Penny Bingo (12:40 p.m.) Tuesday: exercise class (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
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS Dr. Mark Lewandowski, D.D.S.
ON BEHALF OF DR. MARK LEWANDOWSKI AND TEAM We would like to thank everyone for their past, present and future support! Celebrating 25 years of dentistry, 18 years in this Great town of West Branch. I will continue to provide the best quality of treatment available by utilizing state of the art dental procedure, technology and sterilization methods. • Cosmetic Dentistry • 2 Full-Time Hygienists • Tooth Colored Fillings • Certified in Local Anesthesia/Nitrous Oxide • Teeth Whitening • Enthusiastic About Patient Education/Nutritional • All Porcelain Crown and Bridge Counseling/Oral Cancer Screening • Extraction (including some wisdom • Hand and Ultrasonic Instrumentation teeth, surgical) and Periodontal Debridement • Replacement of Missing Teeth with Partials/Dentures ALL OUR TEAM MEMBERS ARE TRAINED TO OPERATE AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, GIVING OUR PATIENTS THE W OW EXPERIENCE IN OUR NEWLY UPGRADED DENTAL OFFICE WITH HEATED MASSAGE DENTAL CHAIRS, TV’S, DIGITAL X-RAYS AND INTRAORAL CAMERA. PROVIDING EXCELLENCE IN DENTAL CARE IN AN ATMOSPHERE THAT IS FRIENDLY , RELAXED AND RESPECTFUL OF PRIVACY. Dr. Pat LeVasseur, a classmate of Dr. Lewandowski, joined our team over 15 years ago, practice limited to Endodontics and implant restoration.
• Mark Lewandowski, D.D.S. Cosmetic and General Dentistry
• Patrick LeVasseur, D.D.S. Practice Limited to Endodontics
• Dr. Dale Davis & Dr. Lisa Davis Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Invisalign, Invisalign Teen or Traditional Braces
Tailored to each patient’s specific needs from children to adults.
Davis & Davis Orthodontics Bringing smiles to Midland for 19 years, now giving you something to smile about in West Branch, at Dr. Mark Lewandowski’s office. Invisalign, Invisalign Teen or Traditional Braces using the latest technology including a 3-D Scanner creating a before and after picture so you can see the results before you start treatment. All treatment can be started and completed in West Branch… To discuss how we can make your investment affordable with a down payment and attainable monthly payments.
CALL AND MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOUR DENTAL OR ORTHODONTIC NEEDS TODAY.
989-345-1391 420 E. Houghton Ave. • West Branch Drlew5@yahoo.com Like us on Facebook
Page 8 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
When you first walk into Coopersville you are greeted with a post office, press and Kathy’s Kafe. Sherry Barnum
coopersville: Offers something for everyone FroM paGe 4 growing,” Cooper said. “And more people got involved, but the key players were myself, Stan and his wife Deb and dog Zip.” Cooper, who never worked in construction, said he always liked working with wood. “I was a supervisor for General Motors for 40 years, and everything here was my idea,” Cooper said. “I learned everything as we went along.” Cooper said they worked a lot of 10-hour days, and they worked in some pretty harsh weather. “We worked in the winter and had some different ideas,” Cooper said. “It’s been quite a fun journey –– when you get done and look back and see everything that is done it’s pretty neat.” Cooper said the town has grown to have a full-time marshal, sheriff and deputy. “Jake Walsh is our marshal, Steve Davis is our sheriff and Jerry Cousins plays our deputy,” Cooper said. “We are open all year long, except we don’t see a lot of traffic in the winter, but we are still open.” “There’s no admission, but we do take donations if people want to leave them for pop, water, beer, whatever,” Cooper said. “All the money generated from here goes to a charity –– none of it is kept.” Cooper said every building in Coopersville is named after somebody –– either his friends or family. “When you start out in Coopersville you start out at Jane and Shirley’s Boarding House,” he said. “Next to that we have a cafe, boot store and Deb’s Bakery, then as you continue down the street you come to John Wayne Saloon, which is a highlight of the town –– next to the saloon we have a brothel, next to that we have Dave and Marlene’s Hardware named after my friends that own the hardware in Luzerne, a bank, an undertaker and we are the only one in the area to have a horse-drawn hearse that is handcrafted.” “We also have a church and gallows –– in case someone goes to church, decides to get married and there’s no other way out,” Cooper said. “We have a courthouse, we have a miniature museum, a working water wheel sawmill, a Wells
Fargo office, telegraph office, gun shop, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop and a livery stable.” “We don’t have a goal of when we want to be done adding on, because every time you think you’re done some new idea comes up,” Cooper said. “We are hoping to add on, and we’ve had some requests for a pie shop for a friend of mine, a meat market, and putting up a teepee and a totem pole on the hill out here. Another big attraction we have that no one has around here, a working windmill that was donated to me by my neighbors Bob and Linda.” Cooper said having this town is like living a dream. “Most people don’t get to live their dream, but I get to live mine every day,” Cooper said. “I’ve had so many handshakes and hugs, and people who have come out here said they are just overwhelmed with the town.” “We’ve had 9&10 News out here, Jack O’Malley, but the amount of friends we’ve made along the way –– you can’t put a price on that,” Cooper said. “We keep a log out here, it’s in for the winter, but we’ve had more than 2,000 names logged, and people as far as Alaska have come down.” “It’s been an awesome journey,” Cooper said. “Most people can’t believe the town was done that quick and 90 percent of it was built with two people.” “It was a labor of love,” he said. “We all enjoy it, and everyone that comes out enjoys it.” “I don’t think there is a word that expresses what this really means,” Cooper said. “Once you sit down and see it, you think, ‘Wow, this is quite a thing.’” “This town doesn’t really belong to me anymore,” Cooper said. “So many people have brought things out to it and contributed to it that belonged to their dad or grandfather, now it belongs to everyone –– that’s why we don’t have any problems here.” Cooper said anyone can donate and nothing is ever turned down. “If you want to be a part of Coopersville you can be,” Cooper said. Coopersville is located on Fire Tower Road in Lewiston.
Reflections –– Spring 2015— Page 9
my Daily food plan Results are based on a 1,800 calorie pattern. This calorie level is only an estimate of your needs. Monitor your body weight to see if you need to adjust your calorie intake.
Grains 6 Ounces
Vegetables 2 1/2 cups
Make half your grains whole
Vary your veggies
aim for at least
Dark green veggies = 1 1/2 cups Red & orange veggies = 5 1/2 cups Beans & peas = 1 1/2 cups Starchy veggies = 5 cups Other veggies = 4 cups
3 ounces of whole grains a day 1 cup cooked rice = 2 ounces 3 cups popcorn = 1 ounce 2 regular slices of bread = 2 ounces
aim for these amounts each week:
Fruits 1 1/2 cups
Protein 5 ounces
Focus on fruits
Get your calciumrich foods
Go lean with protein
eat a variety of fruit
drink fat free or low-fat (1%) milk, for the same amount of calcium and other nutrients as whole milk, but less fat and calories
twice a week, make seafood the protein on your plate
choose whole or cutup fruits more often than fruit juice
Select fat-free or low-fat yogurt and cheese, or try calcium-fortified soy products
Find your balance between food and physical activity Be physically active for at least 150 minutes each week. inFormation
Dairy 3 cups
courteSy oF chooSemyPlate.gov
vary your protein routine –– choose beans, peas, nuts and seeds more often Keep meat and poultry portions small and lean
Know your limits on fats, sugars and sodium your allowance for oils is 5 teaspoons a day. limit calories from solid fats and added sugars to 160 calories a day. reduce sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg a day.
A family owned and operated dealership since 1966. Third & Fourth Generations of Hodges bringing you more smiles per mile! Your Home Team Advantage
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Sales: Mon.-Fri. 8-6; Sat. 9-2 Service: Mon.-Fri. 8-5:30; Sat. 9-2
Page 10 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
Rose City Chiropractic Clinic, P.C.
Kendall R. Paulson, D.C.
Alexis M. Wangler, D.C.
Dedicated to Your Health and Satisfaction “I chose Rose City Chiropractic Clinic because I heard people at work talking about how much they like this clinic.” - Keith Walker “It is great there are two doctors in the office so we can go any day of the week.” - Raymond E. Miller “My experience is always excellent. The staff is personable, helpful and cheerful!” - Stacey R. Hunt Open 6 Days Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9 am - 6 pm;
Kulhavi: “Still a country boy” FroM paGe 6 “It’s a tremendous source of pride,” he said. “I have two Distinguished Flying Crosses, which is the ultimate aviator award.” “I am proud to say that I served as a flight leader in the 25th Combat Division and led two combat assaults,” Kulhavi said. “Vietnam was the greatest experience of my life.” “I was given responsibilities at a young age that taught me a bit about how people react under pressure,” he said. “It also taught me to make quick decisions.” Kulhavi said being put in the position to make decisions and lead others helped him along in his career. Today, Kulhavi is the managing director of wealth management and senior portfolio manager at Merrill Lynch. “I started at Merrill Lynch in 1980 and have been here ever since,” Kulhavi said. “And I spent 35 years of my life in the military.” “I’ve never had fewer than three jobs at one time, and one time I had five,” he said. “And if I had to do it all over again, I would.” Kulhavi said he started the first team in Merrill Lynch history and takes great pride in that. He was named by Barron’s as one of the
top 1,200 financial advisers in America and has been on the list all 12 years that it has been published. He was also named one of the top 400 financial advisers in Financial Times. But no matter how much Kulhavi has going, he still makes times to give back to what he loves. Since graduating from CMU, Kulhavi has remained involved with the university, serving on a number of boards. “I was formerly the board chair of the board of trustees,” he said. “I currently serve as the chair of the development board and events chair.” Kulhavi is also on his fourth year serving on the board of the U.S. Foundation for Forestry in South Carolina and is active in his church finance committee and the White Lake Township board, where he serves as the civil service board president. “I am a big believer in giving back,” Kulhavi said. “I believe if anyone has achieved any measure of success they should be giving back.” Kulhavi said he still comes north as much as he can. “I go up north anywhere from 12-15 weekends,” he said. “And I’m still there a lot and still kind of a country boy, and where I live in White Lake, I live by the lake out in the country with my wife.”
Tuesday 2-6 pm • Saturday 9 am - Noon
989-685-2631 Welcome back Sharon Sawicki, LMT! Massage Therapy now offered 6 days a week by Sharon Sawicki, LMT and Tracy Forstey, LMT Recognized by BC/BS for performance and best practice decision making.
www.rosecitychiropractic.com
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. Feel free to contact us at anytime with any questions.
how to protect your vision over the long haul According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eye diseases related to aging are the primary cause of vision impairment in the United States. Many people consider vision loss a natural side effect of aging, but there are ways men and women can protect their vision and reduce their risk of vision loss as they age. Quit smoking. According to the National Eye Institute, smoking doubles a person's risk for age-related macular degeneration, or AMD. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in men and women over the age of 50. It causes damage to the macula, which is the part of the eye needed for sharp, central vision. If the macula is damaged, vision may be blurry, distorted or dark. Protect eyes from ultraviolet light. The American Optometric Association notes that UV-A and UV-B radiation can have adverse effects on a person's vision. A short-term effect of excessive exposure to UV radiation is photokeratitis, a painful condition that can lead to red eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive tearing. Long-term effects of such exposure include a higher risk of developing cataracts and damage to the retina, which is the part of the eye used for seeing. When spending time outdoors, always wear sunglasses that provide protection against UV-A and UV-B
rays. Maintain a healthy blood pressure. High blood pressure, often referred to as HBP or hypertension, can contribute to vision loss as a person ages. The American Heart Association notes that HBP can strain blood vessels in the eyes, causing them to narrow or bleed. HBP also can cause the optic nerve to swell, compromising a person's vision as a result. Eye damage that results from HBP is cumulative, which means the longer it goes untreated, the more likely the damage to the eye will be permanent. Men and women can maintain a healthy blood pressure by eating right, exercising regularly and sustaining a healthy weight. take breaks from work. Computer vision syndrome, or CVS, is a legitimate condition that can develop when a person spends ample time staring at a computer screen. Adults and kids alike are susceptible to CVS, which can cause symptoms such as blurred vision, double vision, eye irritation and headaches. One way to reduce risk of developing CVS is to take frequent breaks from staring at the screen. A handful of 20-second breaks over the course of an hour can help prevent CVS. In addition, change lighting in the room where you work so you can reduce glare on the computer screen.
Reflections –– Spring 2015—Page 11
fire: Basselman uses creativity to create art FroM paGe 3 wood to dry. “I have some pieces of pine stored for a couple years now that I still don’t want to use,” she said. “To find wood, I go to the lakeshore and woods. I also have friends who own sawmills and they let me go out there and get wood from them –– I can get a lot of unique pieces there. But if I find a tree I like –– like I use a lot of bass wood –– I’ll have the whole tree sliced up.” Basselman said she went to four or five bazaars last year with her work and plans to go to more this year. “I usually stay local for bazaars with the cost of gas and everything,” she said. “I do the one at River of Life Church, and in May I will be at the Forest Lake Bazaar.” “Everything I do is through custom order,” Basselman said. “But I always put my own personal touches on every piece I do; no two
pieces are alike.” “I used to live on Drummond Island for a couple years and shipped products to the Standish and Mount Pleasant casinos for their gift shops,” Basselman said. In addition to the casinos, Basselman said she has had her art displayed at the Saginaw Valley State University library. “They approached me about putting my artwork up in the library for the summer and they displayed them in their glass cases,” she said. “Everything displayed nicely in there.” Basselman said she has even worked with students from Pinconning High School’s shop classes. “Students would come here and I would help them work on their projects, whether it was for their fair projects or something else,” she said. “When they came over I would ask them what they would like to put on the project, and a lot of people want eagles or deer for gun cabinets. So they choose what they
want, and if they don’t know what they want we look up ideas on the computer or I show them pictures I have here.” Then I show them how to draw it and how to lay it out,” she said. “Then I would show them the different tips I use to draw it out on the wood.” Basselman, 53, said she hopes to continue wood burning as long as her hands hold out. “My hands are getting pretty bad, but I’ve always loved to draw,” Basselman said. “I’ve never had any lessons; it’s just something that I’ve always done. My son is a tattoo artist, so maybe it runs in the family.” Basselman said there isn’t anything she will not try when it comes to wood burning. “The biggest piece I’ve ever done was for Jack White of his fishing boat,” she said. “It was one big 8-by-10 piece that went into the ceiling.” “And I’ve done countertops, furniture and doors,” Basselman said. “I work around any-
one’s schedule.” Basselman said she tends to get busy around the holidays when people are looking for unique gifts. “I can add hooks to any piece to hang keys on, and the prices range from $25 on up,” she said. “Something really big is around $150 depending on how long and detailed it is.” “Sometimes people bring in their own wood they want signs on,” Basselman said. “I’ll give them a little better deal depending on how much work I have to do on them –– if I have to do cleaning on them it’s considered into the price –– but I usually have to do a little bit of sanding on them.” And to stay active outside of her wood burning, Basselman said she likes to do customer service type jobs. For more information on Basselman’s work, find her on Facebook or call 989-2002040.
Pictured are some of Basselman’s pieces displayed in her home. Sherry Barnum
Serenity
Ensuring Safety, Wellness and Quality of Life
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Page 12 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
.....
Bortz Health Care
Colvin’s Plumbing & Heating
of Rose City A Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center offers...
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.....
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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.
St. Helen, MI
Reverse Mortgage Specialist
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Reflections –– Spring 2015—Page 13
official sunrise coast Birding trail sites 1. Shoreline Park 2. Piety Hill Riverwalk 3. Riverbank Park 4. Eagle Run 5. Foote Site Park and Foote Trailwater Site 6. Clark’s Marsh 7. Oscoda Airport Grasslands 8. Harrisville State Park & DNR Boat Launch 9. Sturgeon Point Lighthouse 10. Negwegon State Park 11. Partridge Point 12. Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary 13. Lake Besser 14. Ninth Street Dam Outflow 15. Wessel Road “CKD Prairie” 16. Misery Bay Road & Isaacson Bays
17. Alpena Township Nature Preserve 18. Rockport State Recreation Area & Besser Natural Area 19. New Presque Isle Lighthouse 20. Thompson’s Harbor State Park 21. Sea Gull Point 22. Herman Vogler Conservation Area 23. P.H. Hoeft State Park 24. Cheboygan State Park 25. Gordon Turner Park 26. Dingman Marsh 27. Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park 28. Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch Trail sites courtesy of www.SunriseCoastBirding.org
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trail: Highlights unique birds in state FroM paGe 2 hot spots,” she said. “In addition, the map guide provides directions to each site.” Cline said birders will see the common, threatened, or endangered birds of the coastal and inland locations along the trail. “The unique Kirtland’s warbler U.S. Forest Service-managed habitat west of Oscoda is a destination where they may get a memorable glimpse of this highly vulnerable and protected species,” Cline said. “The endangered Great Lakes piping plover also nests here along the northern shores of Lake Huron, which provide critical habitat for this fragile species.” Cline said the spring raptor watch at the Straits of Mackinac will thrill observers as thousands of these birds cross the Straits during seasonal migrations. “The trail was started to share these unique locations with birders and to expose non-birders to the birding field,” she said. “We have an expansive array of public lands along the Sunrise
Coast.” Cline said a bird watcher will see different birds depending on the location and time of year. For a complete list of locations and types of birds, visit www.us23heritageroute.org. “Sunrisecoastbirding.org is the website. People can click on the birding hot spots and use the ‘Plan Your Trip’ feature to plan and map their itineraries,” Cline said. “This allows them to look at a birding hot spot and see what attractions and services are nearby.” Cline said the trail map can be downloaded off the website. “In addition, we will be posting a list of locations where a hardcopy map can be obtained,” she said. “Local visitor centers, state parks and the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary will be offering hardcopy map guides.” Cline said for more information about the trail or more specific information about birds along the trail, contact any of the local Audubon societies listed on the website.
• Utilities and maintenance included. Onsite property manager and service coordinator. • Exercise/computer room and monthly activities.
West Branch Furniture Quality furniture at discounted prices Available in several colors
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989-345-5326
*12 Months No Interest
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Sunday 11-3 Mon.-Fri. 10-6; Sat. 10-5
Page 14 — Reflections –– Spring 2015
O
ak Hill Furniture & Fabrics
Stop in & pick up a catalog featuring the full Lux Craft product line 1734 Galbraith
Co. Rd. 608/
Miller Rd.
N
÷
Kittle Road
M-33
Galbraith Road
Fairview
Mio
Lux Craft Poly Furniture Now In Stock! Many styles & colors to choose from
• Fabrics • Yarn • Wood Crafts • Quilts • Handmade Children’s Furniture & Toys • Rhythm Clocks • Solid Wood Furniture • Outdoor Poly Furniture and more!
1734 Galbraith Rd., Mio, MI 48647
989-826-1913
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Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 8:30 am-5 pm Closed: Wed. & Sun.
Melvin & Betty Byler
Your Summer Vacation Headquarters
TRAVELS AND BEYOND, INC. 4140 S. Huron Rd., Standish, MI 48658
989-846-0077 www.travelsandbeyond.com
Your Community News Source.
Subscribe by phone! 989-345-0044
989-846-4531
989-826-5047 From sports stats to business news, our papers keep you in the local loop.
Call one of our offices to subscribe and mention this ad to receive 13 months for the price of 12.
Reflections –– Spring 2015—Page 15
. From the archives..
Remember when? this worth team was the first in north eastern michigan Baseball league history to win the national and american division titles in back-to-back years. the team members included, in the front row from left, george Pestrue, Joe trombley, Bob Blacnk, Jack grier, Francis romanik, hank charbonneau (manager) and don deShano. Back row, Kenny vanhorn, Jim grier, tom laclair, Jack miller, art raymond, cletus vallad, harold vallad, don Stodolak, tony Plachta and Kenny Schmidt. Bat boy in the front is ron raymond. Do you remember what year the Worth Team won both the National and American division titles?
this picture is of the mio basketball team after they beat rose city in a tournament held in west Branch. this photo was taken by Shirley young and was provided to the oscoda county herald by todd wright, son of glen wright, a member of the team. Pictured back row from left, are Principal Franklin Swistyer, Quinten yost, Bill reisner, ceisel weston, ed nolan and coach ray warran. Front row, from left, are glen wright, lloyd taber, larry Berry, george Parker, ceryl Booth and ted wright. Do you know which year this basketball team is from?
the rose city-lupton chamber of commerce erected this sign along the i-75 freeway just south of the m-33 exit in this year. to emphasize the size, ogemaw heights students stood in front of it. Do you know what year this sign was erected?
PictureS
courteSy oF the
arenac county indePendent, ogemaw county herald and todd wright
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 16 — Reflections –– Spring 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
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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
Michigan’s most unique gift shop... We have a gift for even the pickiest person on your shopping list!
supporting 10 of today’s most important and necessary charitable initiatives.
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SEE US TODAY FOR: • Wheelchairs • Lift Chairs • Wound Care • Ostomy Supplies • Nebulizers • Scooters • Incontinence Supplies • Bathroom Aids Crutches, Walkers, Canes, Splints, Slings & Braces