Mio Moose B-12
Across County Lines B-14
Fairview Tree Lighting B-8
Santa Train A-12
Grayling After Hours A-9
Eagle Voice B-1
What's in this issue:
Strengthening the communities of Northeast Michigan Vol. 11, Issue 18
Voice
January 2020
Free Up North
Notice the tall, six story structure in the center of the picture. This building housed the distillation equipment that separated the chemicals from the vapor as it cooled.
Pine stumps: More than one way to extract a profit By Jim Smith
With the completion of the harvest of red pine, cork pine and hardwoods across northern Michigan, all that remained were stumps, fourfoot-high and as far as the eye could see. But some folks saw profit in this refuse. In 1906 chemist Karl A. Haulter settled in Grayling and in 1909 he established Crown Chemical Company. Using processes that Haulter invented the stumps could be inexpensively processed to produce as many as 32 different products, chemicals and medicines. The process started by shattering each stump with massive charges of dynamite. Using dynamite was faster and cheaper than sawing and splitting the four-foot logs into shreds. Once reduced to splinters with a machine called a “Hog”, the splinters were loaded into special “trough shaped” carts and wheeled into steam heated ovens called “retorts”. Heated to 300 degrees centigrade the wood gave off vapors that were captured and run
through a distillation process. As the vapors cooled, different products were captured with the largest quantity being turpentine. Following as the temperature dropped were chemicals like wood alcohol, acetone, pine oil, creosote and acetate of lime were also created.. The original Crown Chemical Company was located near the site of the Grayling Airport and was the first of many such operations that opened in other locations in Michigan, Wisconsin, Washington State and Oregon. In 1915, the DuPont Chemical Company of Wilmington, Delaware became aware of the process and the potential profits and decided to join the industry by acquiring a large tract of land lying between US 27 and east across the current I-75 Expressway into what is now Grayling’s Industrial Park. DuPont started operations in the plant in 1917 rapidly increasing to full operation the following year. DuPont relied mostly on Beech, Maple, Tag Alder and other hardwoods as opposed to the pine
Huge stumps are all that remains of a virgin forest left for waste. They prove as valuable as the rest of the tree.
stumpage favored by Crown Chemical. Their primary operation was focused on the creation of charcoal. The vapors developed in the “roasting and carbonizing” process were collected and distilled, again producing a similar inventory of chemicals as created in the Crown Chemical Company operation. Most of the products produced in the stumpage operation were shipped to other DuPont plants for further processing into other products. The charcoal produced, in excess of that required for the heating of the boilers, was turned into black gun powder, smokeless gun powder and dynamite. In addition, during 1917 and 1918, thousands of gallons of wood alcohol were shipped to Japan and England. During this period, DuPont was in » See PINE STUMPS on page 3
Out & About Editor’s note: To submit an event for Out and About, please enter it on the website at UpNorthVoice.com. You can also email Warren Stutesman at warren@upnorthvoice.com. The calendar is for non-business use only. Thank you for reading!
ALCONA COUNTY
December 6- Join local musicians in a casual jam session at the Harrisville United Methodist Church (fellowship hall), 217 N. State St. Light refreshments will be served during this free event. This friendly get-together is co-sponsored by the church and Inspiration Alcona. 20- Tax Day Boogie-Woogie Blues. Matthew Ball, the Boogie Woogie Kid plays for taxpayers to lift their spirits at 5:30 p.m. at the Harrisville branch of the Alcona County Library, 312 W. Main St. Contact Will St. John (989) 7363000. February Kid’s ice fishing tournament in Barton City. Free to kids 15 and under. Fishing poles, bait and holes provided. Prizes awarded. Contact Bill Lossing (989) 335-3895 RecurringClassic Movie Night - 3rd Friday of each month at 5:45 p.m. The movie, popcorn and soda are all free. Shows are on the big screen at the Harrisville Library, 312 W. Main St. Contact Will St. John 989-736-3000. State Park Programs - The Explorer Guide Program offers fun and entertaining talks, hikes, and other outdoor learning experiences. Programs vary from hiking out trails, listening for certain birds, or looking for rare plants. Events are free, but a current Recreation Passport is required to enter the park. Contact Eric Ostrander – 989-724-5126 Recycle Alcona, Inc. - 2nd Saturday of each month 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lincoln ARA Site. Household type recycling paper, tin, glass, cardboard, plastic (1-7). Contact Bill Thompson 989-724-5077
CRAWFORD COUNTY
January 4- Michael Seaman Memorial 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM HANSON HILLS RECREATION AREA MI-CUP “TEAM SKI” Event & Potluck 4 Hour Ski Event Registration: 8:30am-9:30am FEE: $45 per team – (3-person team $15 each) Race: 10am-2pm. This is a fun Social event. Ski as a group or go out individually, we don’t care!! Just keep a good count how many laps each team member completes in the 4-hour period. Special awards for the teams that record the most combined laps. 11- January 2020, Feb. 8, 2020 and Mar. 7, 2020 Meet at Hartwick Pines State Park Contact Station. We have several pairs of snowshoes for you to borrow if you don’t have your own. Snowshoe fitting begins at 7:30pm. Hike begins at 8pm, approximately 2-mile hike through unbroken snow. Event is free but
Page 2 January 2020
a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to the park. Hike is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Call the Hartwick Pines State Park Visitor Center with questions. 989-348-2537. 12- Jan. 25 Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” December 12, 2019 - January 25, 2020 Devereaux Memorial Library, 201 Plum St. Grayling 14- Intermediate Watercolor. This 5-session course is a continuation of the Intro to Watercolor class that took place in November. Sherry Graziano, artist, former art teacher and Devereaux Library program manager, will focus on additional techniques and elements that are guaranteed to make the paintings you have always dreamed about. This class, open to adults and high school students at least 15 years old, will take place on Tuesday evenings at 5:00 to 6:30pm from January 14 to February 4, 2020. One additional class is planned for February 11 which will be used as a make-up or an individual attention studio. Students are asked to bring good watercolor brushes, a basic set of tubed watercolors, good watercolor paper such as Arches cold press 140 lb. Register Online at https:// artisanvillageclasses– $100 18- Cote Dame Marie Ski Loppet Hanson Hills Recreation Area. Registration Includes: RACE, Professional Timing, Custom Gift to first 250 participants, Age Group Awards. This exciting Nordic Skiing Adventure will take you through the scenic hardwood trails of Hanson Hills Recreation Area, located in Grayling, Michigan Race Features: Rolling Course with outstanding grooming Professional Timing to ensure immediate and accurate results. Michigan Cup Men’s Division-26km freestyle, and Women’s -13km freestyle Michigan Cup points events. Free Saturday Afternoon Night Kids Race- 1-3km, 1:00-2:00pm at Northbound Outfitters. Citizens Divisions-For those new to skiing, a 7.5 km course with both Skate and Classic categories. “Fun for All!” Custom Gift to the first 250 entrants. 25- Jan. 2020, Feb. 22, 2020 and Mar. 21, 2020 Meet at the Hartwick Pines State Park Visitor Center. We have several pairs of snowshoes for you to borrow if you don’t have your own. Hike anytime between 6:30-8:30pm, approximately 1.25 mi hike around the lantern-lit, Old Growth Trail. Warming fire along the trail at the Logging Museum. Fire will be extinguished, and Visitor Center closed at 9pm. Event is free, but a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to the park. Hike is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Call the Visitor Center with questions. 989-348-2537.
Monday through Friday Make yourself a hot beverage and let the library help you one-on-one with your laptop, tablet, e Reader, or phone questions! Call 989-3489214 to make an appointment with staff available every Monday through Friday. Appointments are also available for 3D printer demonstrations. Genealogy Group- Monday from 9:00 am-12:00 pm Bring your ancestry research and collaborate with others sharing similar goals. Let’s Get Fit- Every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00 pm Join our adult exercise program designed with seniors in mind. Easy chair exercises, stretching, and simple yoga moves improve mind and body. Wear comfortable clothing. Story Hour- Every Wednesday at 11:15 am Birth to preschool children can come to enjoy stories, songs, crafts, snacks and activities. No sign up required. Sit and Knit- First Thursday and Third Tuesday of the Month Join area fiber fanatics to share ideas in the techniques of knitting, crochet, felting, embroidery, etc. Bring your projects. Every first Thursday @ 10:00am and third Tuesday @ 5:00pm. Dinner Is Served- Every Monday night we serve a FREE community dinner. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. and is located at Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church, in the Fellowship Hall (basement). This is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us.
IOSCO COUNTY
December 31- New Year’s Eve Celebration with our KIDDOS. 6-8pm at Wiltse's Cabernet Room 5606 F-41 Oscoda. Pizza Bar, Gifts, Dancing, Sparkling Juice Toast at 8pm, Ball Drop, Balloons, Confetti, Bubbles. Cost per KIDDO (all ages) $4.99 January 18 – Hale Winterfest at the Plainfield Township Resource Center. 23- VETERANS COFFEE HOUR 9:30-10:30am American Legion Audie Johnson Post 211, 900 East Lincoln Street, East Tawas 31-Feb. 3 – 70th Annual Perchville USA. Visit http://www.
Recurring Tea and Tech Time- Every
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tawas.com/visit/perchville-2/ for more information. February 22- Vintage Snowmobile Races on an all-new 1/4-mile oval. 405 East Sherman St. Whittemore, MI. Race registration 7:30-9:45am Hot Laps 10-10:45am. Racing at 11:30am. Admission is $10 entry fees are $10 for Kitty Cat and 120, all other classes are $25. For race rules contact Rick at 989-296-9010. 22- Ascension St. Joseph Winter Gala 2020 5:30pm 27- VETERANS COFFEE HOUR 9:30-10:30am American Legion Audie Johnson Post 211, 900 East Lincoln Street, East Tawas
MONTMORENCY COUNTY
Recurring Music at the Mill– Brush Creek Mill, Every third Friday of the month » See OUT & ABOUT on page 3
Up North Voice
A Division of AuSable Media Group, LLC A veteran-owned business located at 709 Lake Street, PO Box 113, Roscommon MI 48653 “Friend, guide and companion of all good people”
Up North Voice is published monthly and distributed in Roscommon, St. Helen, Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Grayling, Lovells, Waters, Gaylord, Johannesburg, Lewiston, Comins, Atlanta, Mio, Fairview, McKinley, Rose City, Luzerne, Lupton, West Branch, Skidway Lake, Hale, Glennie, Curran, Tawas City, East Tawas, National City, Whittemore, Prescott, AuSable and Oscoda. It is available at newsstands or annually for $40. Stories, advertisements and photos are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher. UpNorthVoice.com is updated daily with breaking news and photos. 989-275-1170
Out & about » Continued from page 2 year-round. Open “mic.” Sign-up to play or sing. Music starts at 7:00. Concession stands open. Free admission. Saturday Activities– Spinners & Knitters Group, informal get together. No charge. Share conversation and ideas. Scrapbooking– This group meets the Third Saturday of the month, October through May. No charge. Open to all interested in this popular hobby. Help for beginners. If you would like to get started, all are welcome to join.
OGEMAW COUNTY
January 20- Ogemaw Genealogical & Historical Society 12:00pm Trinity Episcopal Church West Branch 29- Claws and Paws Rescue Benefit Night at Clear Lake Bar 5:00 PM Contact number 989-345-1155 Clear Lake Bar 2212 Clear Lake Road, West Branch. Recurring Mondays- Wednesdays and Fridays - Meditation at Living Well Nutrition 6:30 AM www.getherbal. net. Join for a Free Meditation Class offered by Living Well Nutrition Mondays-Charity Bike Nights 6pm-8pm Iron Bandogs Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club presents Ogemaw County Charity Bike Nights All generated proceeds go to Ogemaw County Charity Foundations. Door prizes and 50/50 raffles. Tuesdays- Healthy Relationships Group offered by the Riverhouse Shelter. All women are welcome. 3-4:30pm at Michigan Works. Tuesdays- Kiwanis Club of West Branch meets at the China Inn. 12pm Fridays- A Matter of Balance 9:30 AM -11:30 AM Designed to
reduce the fear of falling & increase activity levels among older adults. Sponsored by the Ogemaw County Commission on Aging. Saturday's - 8AM-2PM in downtown West Branch, MI on S. 3rd St. Discover locally grown fresh produce & a wide variety of other treasures.
Pine stumps
OTSEGO COUNTY
January 16-Sharpen your drawing skills with Karen VonOppen 1:00 -4:00pm Gaylord Area Council for the Arts 125 E. Main St. Gaylord $30 for GACA members; $35 for nonmembers. Learn the art of drawing. For all skill levels. Bring pencils or charcoal and a sketchbook. Also bring a photo of an old master's drawing to work from. Call or e-mail to register: 989-732-3242 or gaylordarts@gaylordarts.org. 18- Read Relax and Be StillStretch with Amy Mertz from Yoga 45 who will be joining us for story time and kids' yoga. Flutter like a butterfly and wiggle like a beetle. Who's ready to move like a yoga bug? (Perfect for kiddos of all ages) 11:30am-12:30pm 127 West Main Street, Gaylord This event is free and open to the public. Recurring Wednesdays- 3:00-4:00pm If you, or someone you know is living with a chronic lung disease like COPD, Lung cancer, Pulmonary fibrosis, or emphysema, we would like to invite you to join us on the 3rd Wednesday of every month starting at 3pm at MediLodge of Gaylord. To register call 989-732-3508 or just stop on by MediLodge of Gaylord at 508 Random Lane
Notice the thousands of pounds of splintered wood stacked in the foreground waiting to be processed. Continued from page 1 of “Iron Age” magazine, Crown Chemical closed its doors on the operation 24 hours per day, seven days a week, and employed from 200 Grayling operation in 1912 moving to 350 men in the plant and about the everything to Cheboygan, which same number in the woods collecting was closer to the remaining supply of pine stumps. By 1923 the cost of stumps. Any man who wanted to transporting the pine stumps greater work double shifts was welcomed distances became prohibitive and by to do so. Work was plentiful and 1925 the DuPont plant was shuttered the factory pumped up to $90,000 and sold for salvage. of payroll into the Grayling and It is interesting to note that a surrounding area economy every two major chemical industry, feeding on weeks. the scrap of another industry, could This process was refined to be born, generate such huge profits the point that one cord of stumps and disappear from the scene within weighing 3,300 pounds going into a 15-16-year period. All the remains the retorts, came out reduced to 300 today are memory’s and some words to 400 pounds of remaining wood. and photographs. From this process came an average - This information has been of 20 gallons turpentine, four gallons gleaned from documents in the of pine oil and 40 gallons of pine tar, Crawford County Museum. If the plus all the other smaller quantities of reader wishes to discover more about chemicals so useful to industry and this subject, stop by the museum in medicine. the spring and delve into its archives. According to the May 23 issue
» See OUT & ABOUT on page 5
Send your photos, calendar items, announcements and club events to: info@UpNorthVoice.com UpNorthVoice.com
January 2020 Page 3
Voice Staff Mark Constance Publisher
mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com
Joyce Clark Marketing
joyce@upnorthvoice.com
Tracy Constance Marketing
tracy@UpNorthVoice.com
Lindy Peterson Reporter
lindythemermaid@yahoo. com
Jim Smith Reporter
jackpinetech@i2k.net
Warren Stutesman Reporter warren@upnorthvoice.com
William Broadnax Distribution Manager williambroadnax2015@ gmail.com
Send your photos, announcements and club events to: info@UpNorthVoice. com
Come visit KCC
To the editor: A new year is upon us and with it comes the opportunity to look toward the future, together. As Kirtland Community College continues to evolve and serve our students, we recognize how critically important it is to have strong connections with our valued community members. A lot has changed recently at Kirtland and we have heard from you that clear communication matters. We agree, and we want to do it better. In that spirit, we’re issuing an invitation. We would be honored if you’d join us in a visit to the Kirtland Grayling Campus. Beginning this month and until further notice we’ll host small groups of citizens for a campus tour followed by coffee or lunch on-campus with college administrators. During the visit citizens can discuss college changes and strategic direction with administrators and offer valuable feedback that will help us serve our entire region well. Times available are Monday through Thursday, 10:00am – 1:00pm. Groups can include up to 10 people. If you’re interested, please email amy.kuch@kirtland.edu. I look forward to seeing you. Dr. Tom Quinn President, Kirtland Community College
AuSable Printing and Publishing ‘Your concept, our expertise’ Whether its business cards, brochures, clothing, or dozens of other unique marketing items, we are Northern Michigan’s source for quality commercial printing and marketing services.
For a quote please call 989-275-1170 or email mconstance@UpNorthVoice.com Page 4 January 2020
Property and safety checks offered across region REGION – One of the great things about living in a small town is the feeling that your friends and neighbors are watching out for you. And the sheriff departments in each county assist with virtually identical “general welfare” and property checks. The Roscommon County Sheriff Department has been offering property checks across the county for more than 10 years. Sheriff Ed Stern noted in the past that officers have a standard procedure for checking the homes once or twice per week. If officers find an issue, they will contact the homeowner. “We usually check once per week, maybe twice, but we will do as many as we get. (Officers) get out, walk around the house and if they find issues, contact the homeowner,” he said. Roscommon also implemented a “well-being check program” designed for anyone lacking a local support system, such as friends or relatives, to check their well-being. Friends or family members can decide for a deputy to stop and check the status and well-being of those who are alone. Deputies will be able to not only talk with those signed up for the service but will also assist the resident and refer them to other services that can help meet their needs. For information on general welfare or property checks across the Up-North Voice coverage area call: Roscommon County Sheriff Ed Stern 112 S. Second Street, Roscommon, MI 4853 sheriff@roscommoncounty.net Wellness: 989-275-5101 (officer dispatched immediately) Property Check: 989-275-5101 (Pick up form at department) Crawford County Sheriff Shawn Kraycs 200 West Michigan Ave., Grayling Wellness: 989-348-6341 (Dispatch officer immediately) Property Check: Property Check: (Form required, stop into department).
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Ogemaw County Sheriff Howie Hanft 806 W Wright St, West Branch, MI 48661 989-345-3111 (Pick up at Central Dispatch)
Oscoda County Sheriff Kevin Grace 301 S Morenci Ave, Mio, MI 48647 989-826-3214 (Pick up at Central Dispatch). Iosco County Sheriff Allan MacGregor 428 W. Lake Street Tawas City, Michigan 48763 (989) 362-6164 (Stop by sheriff department and fill out form) Montmorency County Sheriff Chad Brown 11045 M-32 West Atlanta, MI 49709 989-785-4238 (Stop by department for form).
Letter to the editor policy: AuSable Media Group encourages all readers with a connection to the community to submit letters to the editor for possible publication. Please limit letters to 300 words. Author must include a daytime contact number. Letters are the individual opinion of the author and do not reflect the opinions of the staff, advertisers or contributors to the Voice. The Voice reserves the right to accept or reject any letter. To submit a letter email it to : info@UpNorthVoice. com, mail to P.O. Box 113, Roscommon, MI 48653, or stop by the office at 709 Lake Street in Roscommon.
Out & about » Continued from page 3
ROSCOMMON COUNTY
January 2- Monthly Chamber Breakfast meeting at the Houghton Lakes Elks Club.7:30 am - 8:30 pm 18, 19 and 25- Tip Up Town, USA 70th Year Anniversary, Houghton Lake February Snowman Building Contest Month of February 2020 5-9 St. Helen Medallion Hunt February 5-9, 2020 8- Snow Packers Annual Snow Run February 8 16- The Annual St. Helen Bluegill Festival Daytona 500 Pizza and Salad Fundraiser takes place at the Firehouse Restaurant in St. Helen. This is the committee’s first fundraiser of the year and is a blast for NASCAR fans as well as Bluegill Festival fans. All you can eat pizza and salad is served up while watching one of America’s most popular racing events. In addition to the race there are NASCAR games, door prizes, silent auction, a 50/50 drawing, and plenty of excitement. 1:30pm Recurring Tech Hour: Every Friday at 2:00pm: Come in if you have any computer questions, or need assistance with technology, we can sit with you and help out. Story Time: Every Thursday at 10:30am: Join Miss Julie in a wonderful morning program. Children learn how to socialize, explore their creative side, and grow
their love of reading. It is a great way to start the day! Sit and Get Fit: Every Thursday at 2:30pm: Come and do light exercises. It is a great way to stay mobile and keep those joints moving. Adult Trivia: The third Wednesday of every month at 4:30pm: Answer questions, meet new people, and see if you are smarter than a librarian. Genealogy Interest Group: The last Wednesday of every month at 1:00pm: Come and join the discussion. Joining in on the discussion gives patrons the opportunity to ask questions and get answers. The Roscommon Area Historical Society (RAHS) meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Gallimore Boarding House, 404 Lake St., Roscommon. Visitors always welcome. Dues are $20 a year. The RAHS house and museum is open Memorial Day through Sept. from noon until 4. Admission is free. Questions call Sharon Boushelle 989-387-2489 Take your business up a notch -get Free advice from the BIZ CONSULTS from Sawmill Rural Business Center. The 1st Tuesday of every month at Houghton Lake Chamber, 1625 W. Houghton Lake Dr., Prudenville, from 10am-1pm or the 2nd Tuesday of every month at Sawmill Rural Business Center, 702 Lake St., Roscommon, MI from 9am-12pm For more information contact: Diane Suvada (989)2755743
Send your photos, announcements and club events to: mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com UpNorthVoice.com
January 2020 Page 5
Obituaries & Death Notices Louise B. Corey
Louise B. Corey, 92, of Roscommon passed away on Tuesday November 26, 2019 at Tranquility at Kennesaw Mountain, Marietta, Georgia. Memorial contributions in memory of Louise are asked to be directed to ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929(aspca. org) or the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (nkfm.org) Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Lorraine Mary Kubik
Lorraine Mary Kubik, 73, of Houghton Lake passed away on Monday Dec. 2, 2019 at Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Nancy Sue Centers
Nancy Sue Centers, 81, of Roscommon passed away on Saturday Dec. 7, 2019 at home with her loving family by her side. Memorial contributions in memory of Nancy are asked to be directed to St. Jude Children Hospitals or Munson Hospice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Anne Myrtle MacInally
Anne Myrtle MacInally, age 90, of Higgins Lake, died on Friday, December 20, 2019, at home in the presence and comfort of her husband, Bob. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Charles Ralph Merryfield
Charles Ralph Merryfield, age 85, of Roscommon, died on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, at home in the presence and comfort of his family. The family would like to thank Hospice of Michigan for the care they provided to Charles. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Hospice of Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Mary Elizabeth Craig
Mary Elizabeth Craig, age 93, of Roscommon, died on Friday, December 13, 2019 in the comfort of her home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Page 6 January 2020
John Frank Reske
John Frank Reske, age 58, of Inkster, died on December 12, 2019 in Garden City, Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Frank Bommarito
Frank Bommarito, age 84 of Higgins Lake, died on December 11, 2019, at his home in the presence and comfort of his family. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Frank’s name to Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Patricia (Pat) Engelhard
Patricia (Pat) Engelhard (83) of Roscommon crossed the rainbow bridge to be with her husband Jim on the 6th of December. Arrangements were entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Andrew “Andy” McGregor
Andrew “Andy” McGregor, age 77, of Roscommon, died on December 4, 2019, at his home in the presence and comfort of his family. Andy’s family prefers memorial contributions be made in his name to the Vietnam Veterans of America, 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Bev King
Beverly Jane King, age 77, of Roscommon, died on Monday, December 2, 2019, at home in the presence and comfort of her family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
Lois I. Welch
Lois I. Welch, age 93 of Fairview, Michigan, formerly of Curran, Michigan, passed away at her home on Friday, December 20, 2019. Memorial donations may be made to Heartland Hospice of West Branch or to Camp Barakel.
Memorial donations may be made to Hannah’s Care Packages at www. hannahscarepackages.org.
Albert David DeCuypere
Albert David DeCuypere of Mio passed away Dec. 1, 2019 in Mio.
Dawn Marie Haag Pindell
Dawn Marie Haag Pindell of Grayling unexpectedly left the earth to fly with the angels on December 20, 2019.
Jeannie Marie (Kucharek) Whaley
Jeannie Marie (Kucharek) Whaley (61) of Perry, MI, formerly of Grayling, MI, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home surrounded by family on Monday, December 16, 2019. he family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to either the Cancer Center or Memorial Hospice, both affiliated with Memorial
Gene Ann Cook
Gene Ann Cook, 75, of Fairview, MI, passed away Friday, December 13th, at her residence.
Norma Jean Ryckman
Norma Jean Ryckman, age 88 of Mio, Michigan, passed away at her home on Monday, December 9, 2019.
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Healthcare in Owosso, MI.
John Novak
John Novak of Grayling started his fly-fishing journey in heaven on Sept. 9, 2019. John's ashes will be spread along the Au Sable River.
James Erwin Burtch
James Erwin Burtch, 85, of Grayling, passed away on December 5, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. For those that wish to remember Jim by memorial contribution, please consider the Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church Community Dinner Ministry.
Mary Suzanne Allen
Mary Suzanne Allen (74) of Norton Shores, MI passed away peacefully December 1, 2019.
Robert Jack Stott, Jr.
Robert Jack Stott, Jr. (56) of Lovells, MI passed away suddenly and unexpectedly of natural causes on December 1, 2019.
FAÇADE GRANT - Township Supervisor Bill Curnalia of Higgins Township received a $2,025 façade grant from the Roscommon Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for a new covered roadside sign at 700 South Fifth Street. Pictured with Curnalia are Village Manager and DDA CEO Ron Alden, Township Treasurer Cheryl Sullivan, DDA President Thomas O’Brien, Township Clerk Margaret Bargula, Curnalia and DDA Treasurer Andrea Weiss. The DDA partners with downtown property owners in order to enhance the downtown area. Matching funds are available for commercial façade improvements with a reimbursement of 50% up to $5,000 for an approved storefront renovation. This year the DDA has budgeted $30,000 for the façade grant program. Applications are available at the Village of Roscommon offices or by visiting www.roscommondda.com. ~ Photo courtesy of Tom O’Brien
QUIZ BOWL ON ROLL – The Roscommon High School Quiz Bowl team recently competed at the Farwell Invitational. Pictured (front, l-r) are Meredith Kilbourn, Ashley Chmielewski, Allison Chmielewski, Avery Smitz, Jacob Gee, Josie Fairbanks, Riley Maczik, Patrick Warnars, (back) Terrance Holzhausen, Drew Jaskowski, Jackson Thiel, Brady Briggs, Isaac Gee, Ben Collins, Landon Jones. Back- Josh Serum, Ian Wybraniec, Jeremy Black, and Alex Thiel. The team’s next match is scheduled for Feb. 19.
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January 2020 Page 7
AFTER HOURS – The Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce held its annual Holiday After Hours at the Artisan Village Dec. 5. The event featured food samples from local vendors, an ugly sweater contest, door prizes and a chance to catch up on the happenings around the community. About 100 people turned out for the event. ~ Photos by Tracy Constance
Rebecca Walrath, Sharon Klinger, Michelle Barber, and Shelly Cohee (Grayling Promoti
Kevin Jansen and Dave Jansen (Jansen Insurance)
James Harland, Jamie Harland, Sarah (Harland) Frisbie, and Bridget Harland (Graylin
Diamond, Dawn & Brian Morgan-Wells (Family Fare)
Page 8 January 2020
For info on advertising in print or online call Tracy at 989
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ional Association)
Stephanie Mora (Warehouse Social)
ng Restaurant)
9-275-1170
Rose Nettles and Terry Dickinson (Artisan Village Gallery)
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January 2020 Page 9
Grayling daycare receives grant
Pictured seated is Rotarian Dick Follrath surrounded by Houghton Lake Rotarians (left to right) Gordie LaFontaine, Denise Stefanko, Jim VanSice, Bethanie Leslie, Rick Hacker, Heather Marra, Barb Souder, Koreen Pray, Cole Morrison, Rhonda Lamberg, Anita Sheppard, Ben Elliott, Gary Gandolfi, Stephanie Harris, Greg Robinson, and Rotary President Matt Nester.
Charter member celebrates 90th birthday HOUGHTON LAKE - Houghton Lake Rotarians celebrated the 90th birthday of active Rotarian and club charter member Dick Follrath. Dick was a member of the Rotary Club of Greenville, Michigan prior to moving his family to Houghton Lake. Roscommon Rotarian Jeff Nester helped start the Rotary Club
Page 10 January 2020
of Houghton Lake in 1987 which included charter members Dan Anderson, Terry Anderson, Charlie Berg, Lou Boggs, Tom Bowman, David Buys, Larry Cavanagh, Jim Deamud, Dick Follrath, Jeff Fossitt, Steve Hunter, John MacKenzie, Allen Methven, Darrell Milner, Tom Moreau, Marv Myers, Dick
Northcutt, Bruce Sandera, Randy Seymour, Dennis Stegall, Al Stein, and John Walkley. Of the original charter members from 32 years ago, Dick Follrath and Tom Moreau remain active members. The club wished Dick many more years of active service.
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GRAYLING - Crawford AuSable Day Care & Preschool has received a $2,000 grant from the Great Lakes Energy People Fund. This grant will be used towards the purchase of required furniture and equipment, supplies and materials to design and develop an Infant & Toddler Program. The facility that is being built for Crawford AuSable Day Care will house approximately 70 children daily. The new center will be located at 850 Airport Rd, Grayling Michigan 49738, which is next to Mt. Hope Lutheran Church. This new facility will enable Crawford AuSable Day Care to implement a new Infant & Toddler Program that will allow us to provide quality childcare for children ages 12 weeks to 2 ½ years old. We will also have adequate space to allow us to offer two preschool programs (Young 3’s and a combined 3 and 4-Year-Old Program) as well as to offer yearround, all day childcare as well as a Latch Key Program for our school aged children.
KCC hosts Path to Success induction ceremony for local students
GRAYLING - — Kirtland Community College welcomed 19 seventh grade students from Houghton Lake, Roscommon and St. Helen schools into the Kirtland Foundation’s new Path to Success program at an induction ceremony on December 10. Path to Success serves students from seventh through 12th grade and promotes cultural awareness, academic achievement, social development and well-rounded learning. Through mentoring and interactions with college personnel and students, students gain invaluable insight into higher education and career development. “As we’re aiming to strengthen our region it’s important to invest in our students early so they can clearly see all the possible careers paths they could take,” said David Lepper, Director of the Kirtland Foundation, “Many of these kids would be firstgeneration college students, and now they’re learning key skills and having
unique experiences that will set them up for success later on.” The program will teach seventh grade students in their first year about character building, teamwork skills and cultural enrichment through Kirtland Community College campus visits, museum tours, plays, restaurants, trips to the state capitol and more. “This is incredibly eye opening for the students,” shared Kaye Metcalf, the mother of two sisters in the program. “They’re experiencing things that they wouldn’t be able to otherwise and showing them the potential that exists for their futures. That’s powerful.” Extending through twelfth grade, the program has various programming focused on volunteerism and service learning, college preparation and job readiness. Students are nominated for Path to Success by school counselors, based on need and academic performance.
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January 2020 Page 11
HERE CAME SANTA CLAUS – Santa and Mrs. Claus visited Roscommon Dec. 7 at the AuSable River Center. More than 2,500 people turned out for the event. The train they traveled on is owned by Lake State Railway, which chose to stop in Roscommon for the second straight season. Coordinator Mark Constance said the arrival and departure went on without a hitch, thanks in large part to the Roscommon County Sheriff Department, AuSable River Center, Sylvester’s, Roscommon County Commission on Aging, Roscommon Historic Model Train Club, Houghton Lake Resorter, Blarneystone Broadcasting, Roscommon County Road Commission, and everyone who helped direct foot traffic, served cookies or hot chocolate, or just helped promote the event in a positive way. ~ Photos by Mark and Tracy Constance
The Carnahan, Kohler and Bowman families were first in line to see S
Santa and Mrs. Claus rode into town on the front of the locomotive
Pictured (l-r) are Abby Brewer, John Stillwell, Stephanie Tulgetske, who helped sign people in at Breakfast with Santa.
Page 12 January 2020
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Lines extended well past the AuSable River Center.
Santa.
Exiting the back of the train
Janelle Legg brought her granddaughter, Vera Cousins, to see Santa.
David Wahl juggled and kept the crowd entertained while they waited in line to enter the train.
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Kirtland Garden Club to meet
Roscommon graduate Dennis Wagner of Harbor Springs took this 10-point on opening day.
REGION – The Kirtland Garden Club is scheduled to meet Jan. 13 at 1 p.m. at the Houghton Lake Library. Master Gardener Barb Bischoff is conducting a class on “Building Your Own Compost. The Kirtland Garden Club meets monthly throughout the year to hear speakers on gardening topics, work on community beautification projects and take planned trips. Open to public. Please RSVP Nancy at 989-422-6017.
SHOP LOCAL TODAY! Page 14 January 2020
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RETIRED -Ann Rieger recently retired from the Houghton Lake Area Schools after spending 25 years as bus aide. ~ Courtesy photo
Business Spotlight
American Legion Lounge and Lanes post #106
GRAYLING – The Grayling always looking for more members to volunteer Regional Chamber of Commerce History: announced its spotlighted member is American Legion Lounge and Lanes Grayling American Legion Post post #106. 106 opened in 1919 and we received our charter in 1920. Owner/Manager Name: What product or service does Commander-Larry Domcik / your business provide? Manager-Liberty Tinker Lounge, Bowling Alley, Location: 106 S. James St Hall Rental What is a product/ Grayling, MI Phone: Fax: 989-348service that you provide that people may not 4522 989-348-7232 know? Email: legionlanes@ Public always welcome What is a unique fact gmail.com Larry Domcik about your business that Year Began: people may not know? 1919 How many staff/volunteers do We are one of the only Legions that the public is always welcome. you employ? Staff- 11 / Volunteers-Many
Fact abouts snowmobiling
(Courtesy of Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club) 2019 From Snowfest December 2019: “As we begin the 201920 snowmobile season, ISMA thought you might be interested in the following facts while you are preparing to go ride this season: 1) Snowmobilers come in all ages. The average snowmobiler, however, is 45 years old. 2) The average snowmobiler last season rode 1,500 miles (a 20% increase in ridership compared to 2018). The number of miles ridden, on average, is dependent on snow cover, so we will see if Mother Nature brings us more days of snow for riding this season. 3) Many snowmobilers belong to a club and participate in many of their club’s events. Clubs hold great riding events and become great friends. Join a club and have a great time. 4) About 50 percent of the people who snowmobile, trailer to their riding area. The other 50 percent ride
from their home or cabin. 5) Snowmobiling is a familyfriendly activity. Most of those responding to surveys report that they snowmobile with family and friends and with club members. 6) Snowmobilers are outdoor recreationists all year-around. Following is a list of recreational activities that snowmobilers participate in when they aren’t out riding: 60% go ATV riding; 57% go camping; 54% go fishing; 53% go boating; 38% go hunting; 35% go hiking; 32% go motorcycle riding; 26% go golfing; 17% go personal watercraft riding; 15% go downhill skiing; 15% do other recreational activities. Yes, we are a year-round active group! 7) Approximately 78 percent of the snowmobilers are male. 8) Snowmobilers are a big part of the winter economic engine by spending an average of $3,349 each year going snowmobiling, traveling to their snowmobile spot, and for food, gas, and lodging.”
CAMP GRAYLING CHRISTMAS - American Legion Auxiliary Unit 106 Grayling, MI adopted a family for Christmas from Camp Grayling. Pamela Jerome and Charly Mathews, auxiliary delivered the gifts. Pam is pictured at left with on of the troops from the camp. ~ Photo courtesy of Charly Linquist-Mathews
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January 2020 Page 15
Over time the wooden trestle has been ravaged by insects, weakening the structure
The railroad depot is a main feature of the AuSable Valley Railroad.
Rebuilding the AuSable Valley Railroad By Richard Rensberry
FAIRVIEW - Au Sable's rolling trains came to a halt in 2017 when it was found the Au Sable Valley trestle had been compromised by a wood munching bug. The reconstruction of the cross-beamed trestle from high-strength steel is now the next stage for bringing the trains back online. Relegated that task is new owners and operators Bill and Mary Beth Costello, former residents of Dallas Texas, now permanently at home on the railroad grounds at 230 S. Abbe Road, Fairview. Mr. Costello has a long history as a Railroad enthusiast. It all started as a kid when he learned from some of the best small gauge train operators engineering the train at Brackinridge Park in San Antonio, Texas. It has been a long journey up and down miles and miles of track to Fairview, but the indomitable task of bringing our beloved train back to life is now forefront in his mind. “The process to redesign the trestles and obtain approval of the redesign from the state of Michigan, has taken much longer than anticipated,” Costello said. “The design was finished at the end of March and approval from the
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state was obtained at the end of April 2018. We need to find about $50K to buy materials and complete the work.” The top half of both trestles need to be replaced. “We are replacing the wood beams with steel that will last 100 years or more and will be free from insect attack. We are also adding a walkway for an escape route should the train ever experience a problem while on the trestles,” Costello said. Full guard rails will be added in case a wheel jumps the main rails. This is a safety feature found on all modern large railroads and will bring the trestles up to current amusement ride standards. “I should note that this in no way should be taken as a criticism of the original trestle design that Howard Schrader paid another professional engineer to design 20+ years ago. “Now that we know the type of wood needed to hold the weight of the train is subject to decay and attack by insects, we will move to steel beams. Costello said standards change and evolve over time. “We are looking to the future with this project, so this railroad keeps running for generations to come.”
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See you next year Home Country By Slim Randles “The highlight of the week before New Year’s,” said Steve, semi solemnly, “is to be able to tell your pals ‘See you next year’. “Really?” said Dud. “That’s it? How about now that we’re hip deep … almost … in the new year? What do you do now that is encouraging?” “Well,” Steve said, sipping his coffee and sending a jealous eye to Doc’s sweet roll, “one of my New Year’s resolutions is to figure out what to look forward to the first week of January. I mean … now we have to start worrying about taxes and scoopin’ up all those receipts so the IRS can tell us we can’t use them. Right? And it’s January, so it’s cold,
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Grayling Sportsman’s Club news
and it gets dark early. And I dare any of you to try to forget it’s winter by watching a football game played in the Midwest in two feet of snow.” Doc took a bite of sweet roll, being careful to get that pulverized white frosting gently misting down to his necktie. He took a couple of chews and swallowed. It was its usual great sweet roll and deserved a smile. “Steve,” said Doc, “you need a hobby. When the outside world isn’t interesting enough to keep you optimistic, go find something you enjoy doing, and do it.” “Like what, Doc? I can’t play guitar or collect stamps. I just can’t.” “Then you make up your own hobby, Steve, like bull kicking.” “What?” “Sure. Walk out in the pasture and kick one of those old bulls in the butt.” “But he’ll chase me.” “Of course,” said Doc, “but you can use the exercise.” -------Brought to you by our radio show, “Home Country with Slim Randles.” Let us know if you like it. I know you know how to find it.
GRAYLING – The Grayling Sportsman’s club held its last meeting of 2019. Actions include: • New meeting time has been set at 3 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month. • Club meetings have been canceled for January, February and March of 2020. • Club Directors approved the purchase a defibrillator, to be delivered soon. (hope it gets here before it is needed). The 2020 membership cards are in and being distributed to members that have paid 2020 dues. Combinations for access to the ranges will be changed Jan 1,2020. Please send in or pay the $55 and get the new combinations. • Winter trap dan Skeet Leagues will be organizing soon. More information to follow when dates are finalized. • Elections for officers and directors were held during the December meeting. Dave Markle was again elected president with all other officers and directors remaining being retained. • Starting Jan. 2020 new requirements will begin for Hunter Safety Instructors. Mandatory
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attendance at a training/ workshop will be required of all instructors as well as requirements of online reporting of student activities. If you would like to become an instructor or did not received the most recent DNR letter, please contact Jim Smith at 989-348-1202. • The old skeet machines (the machines that were replaced) were sold in November for $2,400. • The club was well represented at the M.T.A. registered team event held at the M.T.A. Mason Shooting grounds. The team consisted of Dave Markle, Chet Schneider, Bob Paul, ‘Butch’ Linn and Jerry Bauman. The group shot a combined score of 464/500, but it wasn’t enough to place. • Long time club member and trap shooter John Whitmore passed away in early December. We will remember and miss him on Trap #1, where he always volunteered during the ATA trap meet shoots. Standing club activities Sunday - Open Skeet and Trap at 11 a.m. Wednesday - Open Trap and Skeet at 11 a.m. Tuesday - Pistol Shooting at 1 p.m.
Photo contest winners announced GRAYLING / ROSCOMMON – The Crawford-Roscommon Conservation District recently announced the winners of it Amateur Photo Contest. Thirty-six photos were submitted this year and were on display for the public to vote on at the annual Conservation Expo. More than 200 people attended this popular event. The following winners are as follows: FLORAL: 1. Roslyn Van Nuck, Grayling; 2. Nancy Plumb, Houghton Lake; 3. Matthew Haggart, Houghton Lake; 3. Tom Richardson, Roscommon; Honorable Mention: Martha Clapp, Roscommon; Honorable mention HM. Bruce Clum, Roscommon. FORESTRY: 1. Roslyn Van Nuck, Grayling; 2. Heather Lovell, Grayling; 2. Nancy Plumb,
Houghton Lake; 3. Tom Richardson, Roscommon; HM: Matthew Haggart, Houghton Lake LANDSCAPE: 1. Scott Hansen, Grayling; 2. Matthew Haggart, Houghton Lake; 3. Heather Lovell, Grayling; 3. Tom Richardson, Roscommon; HM: Roslyn Van Nuck, Grayling. RECREATION: 1. Tom Richardson, Roscommon; 2. Julie Fischer, Prudenville; 2. Matt Haggart, Houghton Lake; HM: Nancy Plumb, Houghton Lake. WILDLIFE: 1 Scott Hansen, Grayling; 2. Heather Lovell, Grayling; 2. Roslyn VanNuck, Grayling; 3. Scot Jacot, Grayling; 3. Tom Richardson, Roscommon; HM: Matt Haggart, Houghton Lake; HM: Lindee Stark, Grayling; HM: Mary Ann Tuck, Houghton Lake
LETTER WINNERS – Roscommon High School announced the letter winners for its cheerleading team. Pictured (l-r) are Melanie Smith, Kylee Pratt, Maddie McPherson, Alisha Pratt and Olivia Fisher. ~ Courtesy photo
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Fire Safety Forum
The best gift costs the least amount By Ken Elmore We’re sure at this time of year your mind automatically draws a correlation, secretly of course, between the words in the headline and the gift or gifts we’re hoping to receive. As for the giving part, well, there is always that wrestling match between the cost of an item and the intrinsic value we hope to pass on to someone. Obviously, getting the most for the least is on the minds of many, especially when Jr.’s list is a mile and a half long. This holiday season, in emergency services, we think we may in some small way be able to help getting a valuable gift for very little. You see, after you’ve been at it a while you begin to notice certain trends that occur. In our world of fire and health safety, around this time of year, anxiety and depression issues seem to bubble up to the surface creating health problems and concerns. We’re not going into figures and statistics here, (there are literally thousands of reports on depression and anxiety), but we did have some internal discussions on what we can do. We spoke with Fire Chief Nick Sergeant of the Markey Township Fire Department. Nick is not only the Chief at Markey, but he is also the president of the Roscommon Fire Chiefs Association. After some informal discussions with his organization, the consensus was that yes, this is a concern. While these health conditions are best left to the doctors and nurses to diagnose and treat, bear in mind that a little help from family, friends and neighbors might make the health difference of someone teetering on the verge. Organizations such as the Chiefs Association, and entities like Denton
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Township EMS and Houghton Lake EMS are all primed and ready to assist. No one in emergency services likes to just point out a problem without a possible solution, we’re take-charge people, so at the risk of repeating a few tips out of the past, we offer a few suggestions. This is a great time of year to take the opportunity to knock on the door and say “hello”, or call, or send a card to that person or persons that you know may be alone, lonely or sick. Particularly at this time of year, a handshake or “how ya doin?” can go a long way in changing how someone feels. This in turn can influence how a person attends to themselves, such as sleep and diet and motivation to get around and exercise or move. Not too many negatives there. Just the potential for better health. In short, spreading a little holiday cheer around our families and neighborhoods might just be the ticket to a little better mental health for all of us. We’re not going to stop there and simply point things out to you though. All of us in the emergency services want to practice what we preach. So, from all of us across the area in departments like Richfield and Higgins, the folks at Gerrish and Lyon, in Lake and the hospitals we work with, along with all the men and women too numerous to mention here, we say thank you for all you do for us. While we can’t send each one of you a card or gift, we send our warm wishes for a magnificent holiday season. Whether alone in your home or surrounded by a crowd, our thoughts are there with you; for joy, health, happiness and safety. Folks, the cost of a warm heart is cheap, you decide the value. Happy holidays. Ken Elmore, Markey Township firefighter
Grayling Chamber Chatter: January 2020 Grayling Chamber Now Accepting Nominations for Awards Gala The Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce will be recognizing local Individuals, Businesses, and Organizations for their community involvement, dedication and service to the Grayling and Crawford County area over the course of this past year at the upcoming Chamber Awards Gala “One Havana Night” on March 6th. Nominations can be submitted online at graylingchamber.com/ chamber-events/awards gala or paper forms can be found at the Chamber office Mon-Fri 9am-3pm. If you are interested in nominating someone under one of our award categories listed below, please complete (be as descriptive as possible, tell us WHY you feel they should receive this award, as just a name will not suffice) and submit the nomination form that applies no later than January 27th. Nomination forms must be complete and will not be considered under any circumstance after this date. Seeking Nominations for the following Award Categories… Kirk Wakefield Service Member of the Year - NEW AWARD! – This award was inspired by the recent recipient of the 2018 Citizen of the Year Award, the late Kirk Wakefield.
This award may be given to someone whose contributions and/or commitment of service as Military or First Responders (i.e.: Police Officer, Public Safety, Firefighter, EMS, etc.) has made a positive impact on the Grayling/Crawford County community over the past year. This award recognizes those who continue to put their lives on the line for the safety of others in our community/ country. Longevity Award – To a business that has withstood the test of time, has sincere relationships with their employees and their customers, has helped make an economic impact in Crawford County, and continues to help our community thrive. Must be a current Chamber Member as of 2019. Chamber Member Business of the Year – Chamber Member Business that exemplifies exceptional customer service, generosity, giving of their time, money, staff and/or facilities for community benefit, or has implemented new construction or renovation projects that serve as an investment or as an enhancement to Crawford County, over the course of the past year. To the business that
is an example to other businesses in the community, one who supports the Chamber, and who has been a leader in their industry and in the community as a whole. Must be a current Chamber Member as of 2019. Chamber Member Organization of the Year – A Chamber Member Organization that has exemplified excellence in service work throughout the past year. For showing generosity by giving time, money, staff/volunteers, facilities, among other things for community benefit, setting an example for other organizations in the community, supporting the Chamber, and being a leader in the organization as well as the community. Must be a current Chamber Member as of 2019. You Made it Happen – Given to a person, business or organization who, through exceptional contributions and/or commitment, positively affected the growth of the Grayling/Crawford County community over the past year by implementing one specific event, service, project or idea (i.e. fundraiser, community event, etc). Citizen of the Year – To the
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person who has given of themselves to make Crawford County a "Great Place to Live!” The Citizen of the Year is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Chamber. The person, who goes above and beyond the call of duty, is always there when someone needs a hand, and who has contributed to make Crawford County a special place. The purpose of the Citizen of the Year Award is to recognize those who contribute and give back to their community. The nominee may be recognized for contributions made during the previous year or over the course of a lifetime. When nominating someone, please consider the following criteria: diversity of activities, length of service, degree of involvement, and the impact to Crawford County. To better help with your nomination process, a list of Chamber Members can be found at www.graylingchamber.com under The Membership Directory. Join us on Friday, March 6 from 5-10:30 p.m. at Kirtland Event Center for an evening getaway, as we celebrate at the cabana for Chamber Awards Gala with an island (formal) theme “One Havana Night”. We will be celebrating all our chamber member and community accomplishments on island time! » See GRAYLING CHAMBER on page 7 C
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PAUL HARRIS AWARD – Ron Alden (right) of the Roscommon Rotary Club was named the Paul Harris Fellow at the organization’s Christmas event Dec. 19. Alden is pictured with President Steve Witt. According to the Rotary website, the Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation. Rotary established the recognition
in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. Rotary also used the event to announce the theme of the 2020 Rotary Spring Auction, “Dancing through the Decades,” which is scheduled for May 2 at 6 p.m. at the Roscommon Event Center.
COOKIEPALOOZA – Sticking with family tradition, the family members of Cherie Johnson got together for a day of making Christmas sweets. Pictured (l-r) are Ariana Johnson, Cherie Johnson, Betty Riffle, and Cara Green. ~ Courtesy photo
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Birds, health and the holidays Toad's Stool
By Warren Stutesman Happy New Year! That makes 59 New Years for me and I am hoping for another 30 at least. I know that there are some that wish to never grow older just like Peter Pan. ‘Me’ on the other hand, I am enjoying this time I have on earth old age and all. As long as my health holds out and I have nothing other than chronic pain then hey, it’s all good. I also just had a CAT scan and it showed nothing severely wrong anywhere. Sure, a bad back but that doesn't everyone. I can already hear my brothers and sisters, what nothing wrong? Obviously, they did not check your head. Well there's no reason to check my head because all they will find are the feathers from all my bird friends, that I see each day. And with that last sentence we get a great segue into my birds. It’s a bit funny that I had a Purple Finch here all summer and then in September it left and as of now has not returned. I have no Finches or Gross Beaks of any kind and no Red Breasted Nut Hatches either. I know that we removed the porch roof this year for repairs, but I cannot believe that is why they are not here.
I have heard that there is an abundance of natural feed, so the birds are a bit slow in the migration. On the other hand, there sure are a lot of Snowy Owls coming south this year. I was fortunate to see the one on Booth Road in Mio outside of the Metal Fab shop. My sons work there and called to let me know that there was a pretty girl waiting for me on the sign out front. Christmas was good this year, with all the family here it made for a great day. And to make this Christmas extra special, last year on Christmas Eve my third grandchild, Gideon, was born to my son Nathanael and his wife Abigail. He is now walking and starting to try talking. So, we celebrated a first birthday as well. Deer season was good for my brother Timber and my brother-inlaw Kit Gusler. They both did very well getting bucks and does filling out all their tags. As ever I am looking forward to this new year. We all make our resolutions this time of year and many of them have to do with our physical wellbeing. That is all fine and well but this year I am hoping to center more on improving my spiritual self. As is the spirit so being the man, at least that is my hope. That's all for this month, may we all have a prosperous and happy year ahead of us. You may reach Warren at warren@upnorthvoice.com.
Grayling chamber » Continued from page 5 C
The evening’s festivities will include dinner, award ceremony, silent auction, 50/50, musical entertainment, dancing, and a cash bar! Tickets are $25 each and will be available for presale only at the Chamber office from Jan. 15-26 (or until sold out, seating is limited). What’s happening at the Chamber in 2020? • January 23, 2020 – Business After Hours–Tri County Agency & Spike’s Keg O’ Nails, 5:30-7:30pm at Spike’s Keg O’ Nails • March 6, 2020 – Chamber Awards Gala “One Havana Night” at Kirtland Event Center (Kirtland Health Sciences Center, Grayling) • March 26, 2020 – Business After Hours, 5:30-7:30pm – PENDING LOCATION • April 16, 2020 – Chamber Business Expo, 3-7pm (3-4pm Vendors Only / 4-7pm Open to Public) at Ramada Inn, Grayling • May 14, 2020 – Business After Hours – Grayling Country Club, 5:30-7:30pm at Grayling Country Club • June 5, 2020 – Chamber Golf
Outing, 9am Shotgun Start at Fox Run Country Club • June 25, 2020 – Business After Hours–CC Historical Society & Grayling Main Street, 5:30-7:30pm at CC Historical Museum • July 17-25, 2020 – AuSable River Festival & Canoe Marathon – www.ausableriverfest.com • August 27, 2020 – Business After Hours – Friends of Hartwick Pines, 5:30-7:30pm at Hartwick Pines Memorial Building • September 23-24, 2020 – Northern Michigan Business Conference at Kirtland Event Center (Kirtland Health Sciences Center) • September 24, 2020 – Business After Hours, 5:30-7:30pm at Kirtland Event Center (to follow conference) • October 22, 2020 – Business After Hours, 5:30-7:30pm – PENDING LOCATION • December 3, 2020 – Chamber Holiday After Hours, 5:30-7:30pm at AuSable Artisan Village Visit www.graylingchamber. com or call 989-348-2921 at any time for Crawford County and Chamber Member information and a list of upcoming chamber, chamber member, and community events.
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Fairview tree lighting kic
Ray Poellet and Nathan Alchin helped people sign up for a raffle.
Rachelle Eastm register.
Elijah Oaks, Gretchen Oaks and Tamar Oaks of Fairview turned out for the tree lighting.
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Catching up with friends and family were Jacob Swartzendruber, Heidi Swartzendruber, Beth Miller, Dan Swartzendruber, and Warren Miller of Fairview.
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cks off the holiday season
man and Kathy Tappan were handling the rush at the front
Braiden Teamster is pictured with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Sisters Arisa Handrich of Fairview and Anna Dippold of Perry got together to catch up. Hundreds of people turned out for the event.
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Merry Christmas from the Comfy Chair View From the Comfy Chair By Joel Vernier I love the holiday season. There is something quite comforting about falling asleep with the Christmas tree lights on our tree all-aglow with our favorite decorative bulbs, and of course, shimmering red candy canes. Also filling the room with the amazing smells of cookies baking, hot spiced apple cider in the Crockpot for guests, and the scent of pine emanating through the air. As I settle into my "Comfy Chair" and take one long look at Christmas decorations in every corner of our family room, I take comfort as I begin napping in this rich holiday environment. I am positive that these many dreams may have generated our favorite stories and songs: "A Christmas Carol," "Christmas Story," "Rudolf The Red-nosed Reindeer," "Frosty the Snowman," and even good ole St. Nick himself! There is something about Christmas music that transcends time & space. Of course, I prefer to hear these songs after Thanksgiving! Indeed, when a Christmas song special to you plays on the radio, television, CD album, MP3, while shopping or whatever you are listening to, your heart & mind is immediately refocused on the moment in time that you connected with it. It may have been when you were a child with your family
around the Christmas tree or dinner table. It could have been your first Christmas when you became married, had your child, or received a new puppy or your favorite present. This special time may have occurred at a Christmas concert, or during a church celebration or social get together. When that particular song plays, everything comes back, feelings, sights, smells, and emotions. When your special songs blends' in with Christmas that you are celebrating at the moment, you can still be transformed to any time in your life that they first came together. For many of us, we are in the moment of making these memories in the; here, and now. For many, we have generated them sometime in the distant past. Whichever group that you find yourself in, be comforted in knowing that Christmas lives in each of us in different ways and different memories. For some, the Christmas season memories take their toll on their lives, sadness can overcome them in this otherwise festive season. Take the time this Christmas season to reach out to old friends, to your relatives, to new friends and even those that for whatever reason, you've lost touch with. Invite them over or go visit them and share the Spirit of Christmas, and the new hope that springs forth each year. Have a very Merry Christmas! May it be filled with "Peace on Earth" and "Good Will to All"! "Remember, every day is a gift! Some are just a little more fun to open than others. – © Joel M. Vernier 12/16/2019 Author of: "The Guinea Pig in The Freezer." joelmvernier@ aol.com
HESTON BOWLERS – Members of the 2019-2020 Charlton Heston Academy bowling team include (back, l-r) Samantha Jarosz, assistant coach, Amber Lage, Alyssah Schwemle, Haley Jarosz, Coach Mike Jarosz, and (front, l-r) Carisa Ryan and Makayla Graham
Sudoku sponsored by:
Sudoku Printed using Brain Bashers Sudoku
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Senior news: January 2020 Oscoda County Senior News By Merianne Tappan Happy New Year! I’m not going to say this is going to be a good year because every time I do something goes wrong. So, I will just say I hope 2020 is a great year for all. Here’s what’s going on in January - The Center will reopen Wednesday Jan. 2 after our long Christmas break. I’m usually ready to come back after a long week. - Jan. 13 at 9.m. we will hold our monthly board meeting. As usual anyone is welcome to attend. Monday - Jan .20 is Dr Martin Luther King Jr day. I hope we can all remember that people are people no matter what age, race, religion or belief. We all have feelings, Mothers, Fathers and loved ones. We are all the same on the inside and everyone should be treated as equals. Please remember what this great man did for humanity and peace. - Jan. 21. from 10-11 a.m. is the monthly senior cheese box distribution. This drop is for any Oscoda County senior 60 and older. If you are not enrolled yet, you may
Happy New Year from AuSable Media Group!
do so that day. I guess that’s it – quiet first month of the New Year. Happiness is FREE. I didn’t believe that for a very long time. I thought if I could just make a bit more money and pay off all these debts and then I can be free and happy and rich. Actor Jim Carrey once said, “I think everyone should get rich and famous and do everything they ever dreamed of so they can see it’s not the answer.” But you know what, worrying about money and working ourselves to death does not create freedom or happiness – it causes ulcers, headaches, heart attacks and most importantly lost time. Look back on the last 5 years. What do you remember? Do you remember that day you stayed late and cleared your desk? Or do you remember the family vacation you took? Don’t waste your precious time being a slave to money. Bills will get paid, debt will incur – it’s a fact of life, but so is “it’s short”. I’m not saying quit your job and quit paying your bills – I’m saying the best things in life really ARE free. Feeling the sun on your face as it comes out from behind a cloud. Dipping your toes in the river and feeling the fish nibble at them. The sound of two bird’s whistling tunes to each other. A hug. A good book and a warm blanket on a cold day. Savor the free things in life. Live life – don’t be a slave to it. See you in February
Natalie Bicego (Warren), Claire Brehler (New Baltimore), and Sofia Bicego (Warren). Standing behind the table is Mariel Krupansky (Harper Woods). All are my nieces. Standing next to Sofia is Laurel Brehler (my sister-in-law from Defiance, OH, and mother of Mariel), and my hubby, Andy Andersen. Not in the picture is Anne Bicego (Warren), my niece Elaina Bicego (Macomb), and her boyfriend, Carter Hines (Rochester). ~ Photo by Patti Brehler
2019 Cooky Bake at the ‘Patch’ By Patti Brehler My three sisters and I started this annual tradition 22 years ago after my oldest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. (She's still with us! (Just not at this year's bake.) Not everyone in my family made it to our house this year, most years it's held downstate, closer to the rest of them. Everyone makes their special recipes and what a mess! But it's a blast.
Of course, we all share “takehomes.” We have chocolate caramel pretzels, spritzers (in the photo, mine, my mom's recipe), Russian tea cakes, Hershey kiss cookies, confetti cookies, pumpkin cookies, iced gingerbread cookies, a marshmallow cornflake thingy (!), a chocolate oat no-bake cookie, biscotti, and I fry up (one at a time), a special Belgian recipe of pizzellas. (Maybe you saw my video the other day?)
- Tappan is the Director/Medicare Counselor of the Oscoda County Council on Aging. To contact her please call 989-826-3025.
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GPA NEWS By Betty Bennett
Hello again! Here we are getting close to the end of the year. In fact, this will be my last message from 2019. Seems a little strange when I just returned from Ohio where I saw a stage production put on by my granddaughters Production Company – “Cutting Edge Theater”. It was called “Spring Awakening.” It was actually about young people – not the weather. But I’ve been trying to find a way to get in a plug for her company and this seemed the spot! And – as long as I’m bragging – my daughter Jini and her husband Wayne celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. What a wonderful occasion! So – forgive a grandmother! Back to the north country. Because I remember it so vividly, I can’t let December go by without remembering Pearl Harbor Day on the 7th. I was about 15 on that eventful day and it is a vivid memory for me and always will be. GPA finished up our Festival of Trees and a great many people went happily home with a Christmas Tree or a beautiful basket of goodies. I think we had more baskets than ever this year and they were amazing. And the trees – we have some very creative folks in our area. The trees were spectacular. Hope you won something – I didn’t. But it doesn’t matter – I enjoy the entire event and work about three times during the two-week event. Hope you came to see it. And Santa too!! Speaking of GPA – we had our annual Christmas Party at a beautiful
Cathy Hicks (front) and Deb Basl helped distribute the gifts.
SANTA CAME TO THE MOOSE – The Mio Moose held its annual Kid's Lunch with Santa Dec. 14. 154 young children and older siblings, parents & grandparents enjoyed the activities. It was very festive day for everyone. Each child picked out a toy, ate hot dogs, received a bag of candy and a free McDonalds dessert card as they left the Lodge. ~ Photos courtesy of CarolLynn VanNorman Right: Santa is pictured here with Jingles Below: More than 150 youths visited the Moose Lodge for the event.
HOT STOVE – The Oscoda County Commission on Aging recently received a grant from the DTE Foundation for the purchase of a new oven. Director Merianne Tappan said the commission is appreciative of the donation and tried it out with a new batch of pizza. ~ Courtesy photo
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lodge on the AuSable River. Since there are about 30 of us who gather for our party, we need more room than anyone’s house can supply. So, for the past few years this has been our Christmas Party home. It was a real evening of friendship. We decorate the lodge for Christmas and if you can’t get in the spirit there – you’ve got a problem. Another annual “get into the spirit” event was the Chambers Christmas Party – Flannel & Frost – at the Artisan Gallery. What a great evening. Many businesspeople were there – many GPA members were there. The food was furnished by some of the many eateries around town as well as those that sell food and drink. There was music and conversation and friendship. Is there a better way to celebrate Christmas? Not for me. Much as I love the view from my windows that look out on pines and the river - I will be heading downstate to be with my family – and then be back in Grayling to celebrate the New Year – very quietly. Its time that I wish any and all of you who read this article a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2020! Let’s hope that the world we live in settles down to be a more peaceful place. I feel sure that is everyone’s wish – that we could all live together peacefully. To live and let live. To treat others as we would like to be treated. To be kind. There is a poem by Esther Wood that I have always loved – and it says it well … here is part of it: God bless your home and the people there, May the skies that touch your roof be fair. Your hearth burn bright, and your candle shine, And the snowflakes sparkle on your pine! Merry Christmas!
Snowpackers earn DNR grant By Jim Smith ST. HELEN- Winter’s here and there is finally enough snow to bring out the sleds in force. The Friday caravan of trucks and trailers hauling one, two or six snow mobiles starts to crowd I-75 about noon. Sun or snow, everyone is pushing north to enjoy riding the snow covered forest trails. Fifty-six miles of Michigan’s snowmobile trails lie between St. Helen and Houghton Lake and are watched over and maintained by the St. Helen Snow Packer’s, one of Michigan’s oldest snowmobile clubs. The Snow Packers are designated as “Trail Grant Holders” by Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources and receive annual funding to maintain the trails within their jurisdiction. This year the Snow Packers were awarded an additional $10,000. grant to cover the cost of major trail rehabilitation. The normal responsibilities required under the funding include signage installation, (911 emergency locator numbers), brush removal, trail grooming and maintenance and similar activities. According to Scott Nestle, Snow Packers President, “the additional funding will allow the Club to correct some serious problems with the trails”. There are several major holes and wash outs and culverts that need to be repaired or even replaced.
In many spots the trail surface has worn down to the stabilizing fabric that supports the trail composition. Replacing these sections is like starting over from the beginning. All the work is done by volunteers. The Club has around 100 members but, as with most organizations, most of the work is done by a few. Ray Wlosinski, Snow Packers Vice President, said that they are “spending the winter planning the projects so they will be ready to start first thing in the spring”. Some heavy equipment, (dump trucks and dozers), will be required. Scott indicated that most of that is, or will be, available. What they really need are volunteers to man the rakes and shovels. Come spring, don’t assume the season is over. All the trails are available throughout the non-snow season as ORV Trails. When the snow has melted the trails still provide some fantastic touring opportunities through some of Michigan’s premiere rustic areas. Volunteers, that’s what’s needed in the spring. Now is the time to sign up so the Snow Packers have an idea what they have to work with. For more information on the St. Helen Snow Packers and what they need, type into your search engine “St. Helen Snow Packers” to reach their website.
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The Hand of God
Little Bobby was spending the weekend with his grandmother after a particularly trying week in kindergarten. His grandmother decided to take him to the park on Saturday morning. It had been snowing all night and everything was beautiful. His grandmother remarked..."doesn't it look like an artist painted this scenery? Did you know God painted this just for you?" Bobby said, "Yes, God did it and he did it left handed." This confused his grandmother a bit, and she asked him "What makes you say God did this with his left hand?" "Well," said Bobby, "we learned at Sunday School last week that Jesus sits on God's right hand!"
Hilarious Animal One-liners
• Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana. • A chicken crossing the road: poultry in motion. • The United States has never lost a war in which mules were used. • The second mouse gets the cheese. • Nothing succeeds like a parrot with no teeth. • Accept that some days you are the pigeon and some days the statue.
Black Friday special. Stay at home and save 100%. Government recently announced it is going to expand the war on terror to theme parks by making haunted houses illegal.
Just remember, it could be worse.
What did the Buddhist ask the hot dog vendor? “Make me one with everything.” I went in to a pet shop. I said, “Can I buy a goldfish?” The guy said, “Do you want an aquarium?” I said, “I don’t care what star sign it is.”
More Hilarious One-Liner Jokes
• A guy walks into a pub with a lump of asphalt on his shoulder. He says to the bar man give us a pint and one for the road. Tommy Cooper • I just got lost in thought. It was unfamiliar territory • I do not have a single white note on my piano; my elephant smoked too much. Victor Borge • Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it. • Why are there flotation devices under plane seats instead of parachutes? Steve Wright • Rufus always slept with his gun under his pillow. Hearing a noise at the foot of the bed, he shot off his big toe. A woman came home to find her husband in the kitchen shaking frantically, almost in a dancing frenzy, with some kind of wire running from his waist towards the electric kettle. Intending to jolt him away from the deadly current, she whacked him with a handy plank of wood, breaking his arm in two places. Up to that moment, he had been happily listening to his Walkman.
Sudoku Answer
January 2020
What do Alexander the Great and Winnie the Pooh have in common? Same middle name.
Still think you are having a bad day ?
The average cost of rehabilitating a seal after the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska was $80,000. At a special ceremony, two of the most expensively saved animals were being released back into the wild amid cheers and applause from onlookers. A minute later, in full view, a killer whale ate them both.
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How does NASA organize a party? They planet.
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Heather Neuhaus of West Branch shot this 8-point buck during archery season.
Deputy Nathan Droptiny hands off a turkey.
TURKEYS, NOT TICKETS – The Roscommon County Sheriff Department participated in the Turkeys instead of ticket initiative in early December. The program involves deputies stopping vehicles and instead of handing them tickets for minor infractions, they offer the drivers turkeys or gift Providing resources for the program were the Roscommon Rotary Club, Houghton Lake Rotary Club, Gordie LaFontaine, Walmart Houghton Lake, Jim VanSice, Bob’s Butcher Shop, Houghton Lake VFW, Shakers Restaurant, and the ACT NOW organization. ~ Photos by Tracy Constance
Lt. Eric Tiepel delivers a turkey and gift certificate.
Thank you for a great year Across County Lines By Mark Constance As 2019 ends, the staff at Up North Voice and UpNorthVoice. com have been fortunate, both in our personal and professional endeavors. We are thankful for our health, as well as that of our families and friends. And we are hoping that 2020 will bring more of the same. For our readers and advertisers:
Thank you! It takes all of us to create this paper. From the people who call to remind of us about events we need to cover, photos we should take, or grand openings for new businesses, none of this would be possible without you. And although we don’t say it enough, we appreciate the people in the communities we cover. Be safe over the holiday season and enjoy your time and traditions. They are more important now than ever. Merry Christmas to you and yours. - The Constance family
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