Up North Voice - February 2023

Fishing, family, and fun

IOSCO COUNTY – The 2023 Londo Lake Ice Fishing Tournament will be Sat. Feb. 11 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This will take place at the Londo Lake public access, 2607 Plainfield Rd. You can fish east and west of the lake but the sign in tent will be at the public access.

There will be three age categories. Prizes for each species of fish ages 12 and under, 13-18, and 19 and older.

The species include the largest Pike, Perch, Bluegill, Sunfish, Crappie and other Pan fish. There will not be prizes for bass.

Everyone is welcome to join the heated tent with hot dogs and hot ▪ See ICE FISHING on page 4

Caring as a career

By Nicole Mygrants

2023 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Crawford County Commission on Aging (COA).

The Director of COA, Alice Snyder, sits at a desk covered with tasks to be done overlooking the front door of the Lawndale Campus. When she talks about those who contributed to the agency before her, noticeable emotion and passion is present. You can tell this job is personal as much as it is professional for Alice. She keeps her head down working hard to secure grants, communicate needs, and do all the paperwork necessary. She looks ahead to a new building renovation, and the ability to do more for citizens who are often vulnerable and whose quality of life would benefit from a little help.

Just down the hall, a volunteer in a small office stacked with files makes reassurance calls to homebound senior citizens. Other volunteers are busy completing various tasks for area seniors including coordinating meals or rides, arranging for free legal consultations, and helping with insurance.

The staff also schedules a nurse that offers foot care once a month, activities for engagement, loanable medical equipment, and homemakers that assist in small daily tasks and repairs. “Anything to serve the elders in our community and to help them

live independently or with slight assistance is our goal”, Alice says.

Running on a skeleton crew of employees, it is a quiet miracle what is accomplished.

Few fully know the impact that the COA has, but Alice and her team do, they live and breathe it every day.

In 2022, the Commission on Aging served 32% of those 60 and older living in its service area, approximately 1,270 people served. An average of 42 meals per day or 524 meals per month were served in the onsite cafeteria or delivered via the Meals on Wheels program. All in total, 40,937 meals were provided in 2022. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

4,153 seniors took advantage of fitness programs, and 1,963 seniors participated in other offered programs fostering community and socialization. Crawford County citizens 60 plus can receive personal care services, light housekeeping and minor home repairs, and their caregivers can request respite. All services are offered to seniors by donation and are largely funded by millages, grants, and private donations, with only 6% of operating costs met by participant donations.

The Commission on Aging was started in 1973 in Grayling, in a building that used to house an auto shop. Originally the space was converted to create a dial-a-ride

system home office. Over time it was expanded to include space for a kitchen and meals, activities, and planning how to assist area senior citizens. Eventually Dial-a-ride and the COA were split, and the building now offers housing services.

Alice, originally from Indiana, joined the COA in June 2004. It was one week after moving to Grayling from Oregon on Memorial Day weekend.

Alice learned from her Mom Judy’s example, always “looking after” older adults in the community. As a child, she would go with her mom to visit people in nursing homes, and she spent a lot of time with her grandparents listening to old stories that she loved.

Now, after 19 years of service, Alice’s main work beyond daily

Cash Noragon is all smiles on the ponies at TUT 2023!

▪ See pages 8 and 9 for more photos!

Alice Snyder, Director of the Crawford County Commission on Aging (COA)

Out & About - February 2023

CRAWFORD COUNTY: Grayling, Frederic, Lovells

2- Medicine Shoppe BingoCrawford County Commission on Aging

7- Bluegrass and Fiddle FunArtisan Village Gallery- 2-4pm

9- Valentine's Day LuncheonCurbside Delivery Only- Must pre register by calling Crawford County Commission on Aging, 11:30-1pm

10-12- You Know I Can't Hear You When The Water's RunningArtisan Village Community Theater

16- New Menu Taste Testing11:30am Crawford County Commission on Aging, Try Balsamic Chicken with Tomato Feta Pasta, and Beef and Broccoli

17- Cooking for One- 6 week course, 2 hour classes, Fridays Feb. 17- March 24th Crawford County Commission on Aging

23- RDS Blues Trio- Artisan Village Gallery- 7pm

24- Cooking for One- 6 week course, 2 hour classes, Fridays Feb 17- March 24th Crawford County Commission on Aging

Crawford County Extras

Tues- Bible Study – 10am

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues- Euchre – 1-4pm Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues- Diamond Dancers – 6pm Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Wed- Mahjong – 1-3pm

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Wed - Bike Night, at 7 pm, Gallagher's Sports Bar & Grill, 3997 E. M-72

Thurs- Craft & Chat – 10am

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Thurs- Penny Bingo – 1-3pm.

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Fri- Pantry Bingo – 1-3pm

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Fri. - Trivia, at 7:30pm, MI Brew

Tues- Diamond Dancers – 6pm Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- Pickleball 9-11am;

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers – 10-11am, Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues & Thurs – Pickleball, 10am-12pm Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues & Thurs- Zumba Gold – 10-11am, Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Fri. - Trivia, at 7:30pm, MI Brew

1st Sun. - American Legion Breakfast Buffet, at 9 a.m., American Legion Post 106

1st Tue.- Friends of a Feather9am Crawford County Commission on Aging

2nd Mon. - Post meeting, at 7pm, American Legion Post 106

2nd Tues - Grayling American Legion Aux Post meeting, at 5:30pm, Grayling

2nd Thurs- Veterans Coffee hour, at 10am , Grayling American Legion

2nd Thurs - Families against Narcotics, at 6:30pm, St. Francis Episcopal Church

2nd Sat. - Euchre Tournament, at 6pm, American Legion ROSCOMMON COUNTY: Roscommon, Higgins Lake, Prudenville, Houghton Lake, St. Helen

8-12 St. Helen Chamber Medalion Hunt Look for clues on the chamber website, Facebook, and the window at the St. Helen Chamber

Office on the south end of 2nd Generation Barbershop

10- Friday Night Mystery

Ride- St. Helen SnowPackers Clubhouse- 5-8pm.

11- 20th Annual SnowPackers

Fun Run- $25, St Helen SnowPackers Clubhouse, They are also Collecting Soles4Vets shoe donations. Please bring delicately used or new shoes to help vets in need.

11- Saturday Morning Yoga9-10am - $20- Gahagan Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

11- Free Estate Planning

Seminar- 10:30-12pm Roscommon Area District Library

12- Indoor Farmer's Market-

10-3pm- Inside Ausable River Center

12- Business 2 Business

Breakfast- 8am- Roscommon Village Hall

13- Little Gnats- Program for Little “Gnaturalists”- 10:30-11:30am

Gahagan Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 3

Up North Voice

A Division of AuSable Media, 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

14- Nature-Play Saturday, 10:30-12pm, Gahagan Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

16- School Day off at Gahagan9-3pm Grades 1-5 $55 Gahagan

Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

17-18- WinterFest- Higgins

Lake- Badges $5 for more info call 989-275-8760 or info@hlrcc.com

18- Snowshoe Hike- Where

Do Wildlife Go in Winter- 10:3011:30am Gahagan Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

19- Bluegill Festival Daytona 500 Fundraiser- Silent Auction, 50/50 and Pizza, The Firehouse, Saint Helen

19- 5th Annual “Northern Slipper” Wedding EXPO-

12-3:30pm, The Northern Center & Fox Den Restaurant, Houghton Lake

19- Winter Owl Prowl- 6-7pm, Gahagan Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

24- Donate Blood- 1-5:30pm

Roscommon VFW, 219 Terrace Dr, Roscommon

26- Community Dinner, 5-6:30pm, Good Shepard UMC, 149

W. Robinson Lake Rd. Roscommon

28-Gahagan Girls- Women in the Woods- 7-8:30pm $15- Gahagan

Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

28- Snowshoe Hike and Winter Tree ID- 10:30-11:30am ,Gahagan

Nature Preserve, 209 W. Maplehurst, Roscommon

Roscommon County Extras:

Mon - Reserve tech HelpHoughton Lake Public Library

Mon- Zumba Class- 4:455:45pm

Tues – Ski Club 4H, Starting Jan 7, 3:30-5:30pm Cross Country

Ski Headquarters, 9435 N. Cut Rd, Roscommon. 5-19 30 student limit, must be registered, more info 989275-5043 $15

Weds- Make Shop at Made Up North- Craft workshops during the day- call for more information 989281-1250

Thurs - Sit & Get Fit, at 2:30pm, Roscommon Area District Library

Fri - Story-time Fridays, at 10:30am, Houghton Lake Public Library

Sat- Zumba Class- 10-11am

CRAF Center $20

1st Thurs- Veteran's Coffee

Hour- 9am, Blogett Airport

Houghton Lake

2nd Sun. – VFW Country

Breakfast, at 8am, VFW Post 4159

2nd Thurs. – B2B Breakfast, at 8am, Village of Roscommon

3rd Wed. – Michigan Fireman’s Memorial Festival Meet, at 6:30pm

Check the MSU Extention

Webpage for their list of upcoming classes at http://bit.ly/MSUEevents or call 989-275-5043

IOSCO COUNTY:

Hale, Whittemore, Tawas

Iosco County Extras:

Mon - BINGO, at 6:30pm, Whittemore Chamber of Commerce

3rd Tues. - Whittemore Chamber Meeting, at 7pm, 405 E. Sherman Street

3rd Thurs- Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9am American Legion Post 211 900 E. Lincoln, East Tawas

2nd Sat. - Vintage Market, from 9 a.m.-2pm, Brugger Plaza, 324 W. Lake Street, Tawas City

OGEMAW COUNTY:

West Branch, Rose City, Lupton

Ogemaw County Extras:

Tues. – Kiwanis Club of West Branch, at Noon, Buccilli’s of West Branch

Weds. – BINGO, Early Birds at 6:30pm, Regular at 7:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus off M-30

Weds. – AL-ANON meeting, at 8pm, 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First Street

Weds. – Culvers Cruise In, at 68pm, Culvers West Branch

Thurs. – Optimist Club, at 7 a.m., Loggers Depot, 314 Houghton Avenue

1st Sun. – Adult Children of Alcoholics, at 6pm, First United Methodist Church, 2490 State Road

1st & 2nd Mon. – City Council meeting, at 6pm, West Branch City Hall, 121 N. Fourth Street

1st & 3rd Tues. – Rose City Council meeting, at 6pm, Council Chambers, 310 N. Williams Street

1st Tues. – West Branch Retail Merchants meeting, at 6pm, City Police Station, 130 Page Street

1st Wed.- Ogemaw County

Veterans Coffee Hour- 9-10 a.m.,

1st Wed.– Let’s Discuss Juniors Book Club, at 4pm, West Branch District Library, 119 N. Fourth Street

1st & 3rd Thurs. - Newborn Parent Support Group, at 6pm, MyMichigan Health West Branch in the Executive Dining Room

1st Thurs. – Ogemaw County Fair Board meeting, at 7pm, meets in main building

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 5

Ice fishing

Continued from page 1

chocolate to warm up.

Prizes will be given away outside the tent after the tournament is finished. There will also be a raffle for a tent shanty. Good luck fishing!

Don’t miss the Ice Jam event. Sat. Feb 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. behind the Londo Lake Bar. Fun events for the entire family include a fishing derby, a parade, music, drop in hockey, and games for kids.

Feeling adventurous? Enter the Polar Plunge event for a great cause. Your donation of only twenty dollars will go to the Iosco County Humane Society. Remember, if you pay, you PLUNGE!

Letter to the Editor

The demise of education

ROSCOMMON- A local news station held a survey asking viewers if college admissions should be based on "merit or diversity.” Merit won out overwhelmingly. I agree that merit should be the basis for college admission, it should not be based solely on ethnicity, but we should also have diversity in our colleges and universities.

Tests can be and have been created to allow a diverse population to show their abilities to enable people of all backgrounds to admittance into higher education institutions.

Considering these current issues facing education and educators: making an A easier to get, easier classes, banning books, Christian nationalism, creationism, hiring people to teach that could not pass basic subjects or the state certification tests, placing teachers in subjects they did not study or earn a degree and certification in, and I see a big contradiction.

Letter to the editor policy: AuSable Media 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

How can our young students earn admittance into colleges and universities based on merit if they do not have a good education? If a teacher does not possess the ability in basic subjects or in a particular subject, they cannot teach students well.

I was a general education teacher, then earned a second master’s degree and K-12 certification to teach Special Ed. English. I learned firsthand the big difference in teaching various subjects and students at all levels before retiring.

People should be aware of their child's school districts, teachers, and lessons. Be involved and speak up at school boards (or directly to teachers) but should not be dictating what is to be taught. People need to use critical thinking to realize that they are destroying education along with students and our society's future.

The dumbing down of America is forging ahead full steam!

Donna Russell

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.

Tracy Constance Tracy@UpNorthVoice.com

Alesia Willobee Marketing Alesia@ UpNorthVoice.com

Alicia Noragon Copy Editor Alicia@ UpNorthVoice.com

Nicole Mygrants Reporter thegiftwellnesscommunity @gmail.com

Axel Jacobs Roscommon Distribution Matthew Barnes Grayling Distribution Cody Jackson Mio Distribution Mikayla Wade Distribution

Warren Stutesman Reporter wstutesman@gmail.com

Donna Thoma Writer donnathoma0@ gmail.com

Out & About

Continued from page 3

2nd Mon. - Kiwanis Young Professional Club, at 6pm, Highway Brewing Company

2nd Tues – Parkinson's Disease Support Group, 3:30pm, MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch Executive Dining Room

2nd Wed. – Aktion Club, at 9:30 a.m., United Methodist Church

2nd Wed. - Business Professional

Women’s group, at 5pm

2nd Wed. - Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia Support Group, at 2- 3:30pm MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch

Executive Dining Room

2nd & 4th Thurs. - Healing

Together – Compasus Hospice, at 10 a.m., Ogemaw Commission on Aging, 1508 M-33

3rd Mon. - Disabled American Veterans & Auxiliary meeting, at 5pm, VFW Post 3775

3rd Tues.- OCGHS General Membership Board meeting, at 2:30pm, Trinity Episcopal Church, 100 E. Houghton Avenue

3rd Thurs. – Vet2Vet Peer Support Group at 6pm, First United Methodist Church corner of Fairview and State Road, For more info call 989-873-6088

3rd Thurs. - Ogemaw Area Swim

Boosters at 6pm, Ogemaw Heights

High School Room 210

2nd Sat. - Ogemaw Hills

Snowmobile club meeting, at 9 a.m., Club House

OTHER REGIONS:

1st and 3rd Thurs- Alcona

County Veteran's Coffee Hour9am Westminster Presbyterian Church 201 M 2nd St. Harrisville

4th Weds- Cheboygan Co

Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9am Cheboygan VFW

4th Thurs- Alpena Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9am Art in the Loft

Every Thursday-Bingo- 6pm, Luzerne American Legion

1st Friday- Fish Fry Dinner, Luzerne American Legion, 4:30-7pm

2nd & 4th Sundays – Live Music

Open Mic Productions, 2-4pm, Seymore Avenue at First Street, Comins. For more info call 989-3906977

Caring as a career

Continued from page 1

operations is to see the renovation of their new building acquired for expansion of the COA. “If anything is to be my legacy, it will be to see that building renovated to serve our seniors. I’ve made it my mission.” And indeed, she has.

Alice is always actively seeking grants on the local, state, and federal level, working to secure doable bids for construction. In a post covid, supply-chain-rising-cost world, she must nurture relationships with essential volunteers. Alice is embedded in most of the actions to sustain and grow what is offered, with fund raising actions and new plans, it seems as though COA runs in her blood.

Alice, her husband Mark, and two children were instrumental in making sure things happen. Mark is a longtime volunteer who has served in almost every role needed at the COA since they moved to town.

The community spoke a vote of confidence in 2018 when they chose the Commission on Aging for the Chamber Organization of the Year, a new award that they were the first to be honored with. Later, again a vote of confidence when a millage was approved to secure a new, larger building.

of this year. It wouldn’t be surprising to see her out there with a shovel herself. If there is a way to make it happen, Alice will find it.

Alice said, “the move into the new building will allow us to meet needs for better parking, the ability to offer an expanded kitchen with walk in coolers, larger updated restrooms, a fitness room, and a meeting space that can be rented with optional catering that can be offered.”

Listening to Alice share what is ahead and how it will impact our community, service minded vision is clearly a talent that has been fostered in her time at the agency.

Looking ahead at this year’s celebrations, Alice makes a call for community contribution. “There were great leaders and volunteers before me, and we want to hear stories, see pictures, and know about their impact.”

COA mission statement: To Advocate and promote the well-being and independence of all older adults in Crawford County, and it is a mission that viably lives on with great assistance from the community.

Former Director Laura Gould was instrumental in the establishment of the COA and not enough is known about her.

Alice explains, “we would love for our communities to read this and share information and experiences with us so that we can include the memories and significance of her, and others, contributions.”

After acquiring the new M-72 campus, despite the effects of covid on gathering, the COA has managed to add new fitness programs to its lineup. In 2022 pickle ball was added, Zumba classes were expanded, and a Silver Sneakers walking program was implemented. Evidence based programs like A Matter of Balance, Personal Action Toward Health (PATH), Tai Chi for Arthritis, AARP Drivers Safety, Stress Less with Mindfulness, GeriFit and Walk with Ease have been added.

Bids are currently out for construction to renovate this space to meet needs, and Alice is hopeful and determined to break ground in April

Undoubtedly, something larger than one person is at work at the Crawford County Commission on Aging, and Alice is humble about her part in it. “I just want to see our work continue and for that new building to be put into use and our services expand” she shares. Time has shown that thousands of people will benefit from just that happening.

The groundbreaking will be the pinnacle in Alice’s dedication to the Commission on Aging. You can help her and the COA celebrate all that has been done over the last 50 years by sharing your contributions in story, picture, or experience.

Alice can be reached at 989348-7123 or via email at director@ crawfordCOA.org.

WinterFest 2023

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, FEB. 17TH & 18TH

WinterFest Badge $5 INCLUDES ADMISSION TO ALL EVENTS!

At beautiful Higgins Lake and Park 27 in Lyon Township

New location for some events!

ROSCOMMON

WINTERFEST 2023 of Events

Saturday February 18th

Pancake Breakfast 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Lyon Township Fire Hall

Crazy Cardboard Sled Race

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Pioneer Hill

Fishing Derby 11:00 a.m. – 2 p.m.

North Higgins Lake State Park

Broom Ball 11:00 a.m.

North Higgins Lake State Park

Kids Karnival and Activities 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lyon Township Park 27

Chili Cook Off 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. NEW TIME!

Lyon Township Fire Hall

AfterGlow Party 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Silver Dollar Pub & Grill

HLRCC.com info@hlrcc.com

facebook.com/HLRCCWinterfest

See answer on page 13

Human Trafficking Awareness

ROSCOMMON- January was Human Trafficking Awareness month. To support Human Trafficking Awareness, a window was set up at Art-Y-Facts in downtown Roscommon.

Human Trafficking happens everywhere, even in our community. There are many myths about human trafficking but here are some human trafficking facts.

-Human trafficking is a modernday form of slavery. It is widespread throughout the United States.

-Human Trafficking is not a choice. A person does not choose to be enslaved. Victims want to escape but cannot.

-Human trafficking is a $150 billion global industry.

-Human Trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world, second only to the drug industry. You can only sell a package of cocaine once. You can sell a girl or boy repeatedly.

-Force, fraud, and coercion are methods used by traffickers to press victims into lives of slavery and abuse.

-Every minute two children become victims of sexual exploitation. Two out of every three

▪ See HUMAN TRAFFICKING on page 12

© Kevin Stone

Anna Sylvester (owner of Art-Y Facts) with her Human Trafficking Awareness display window.

Below: Deb Williams showing support for Human Trafficking Awareness month.

Community Foundation 101

By Suzanne Luck

Philanthropy (noun): Active effort to promote human welfare; an act or gift done or made for humanitarian purposes.

The word “philanthropy” means “love of humanity.” At the Roscommon County Community Foundation, a tax-exempt charitable organization, we love our community. Our goal is to encourage positive change for generations to come –for good, for everyone, forever.

RCCF is a vehicle for contributors to promote healthy and vibrant communities through donations of resources, money, and time. Not only does RCCF seek donations, but we also provide grants to other non-profit organizations and scholarships to students. We support ranges from the arts and education, health and human services, to the environment, animal welfare, and disaster relief.

Last year, RCCF distributed over $350,000 in grants and scholarships for Roscommon County. How can we do that? It’s called the power of endowment. Endowment is a fancy word meaning your gift will last forever. The original gift is invested, while a portion of the fund is distributed annually via grants or scholarships to support a variety of causes.

As defined above, philanthropy is not only about seeking monetary donations to provide grants and scholarships. RCCF greatly values donating time. This is evidenced in part by our Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The YAC is a group of high

school-aged students from schools in Roscommon County who make grant recommendations and give their time to serve and support our community. The youth of today are tomorrow’s leaders, and through YAC, RCCF works to empower them to effect local change and grow as young philanthropists.

Roscommon County Community Foundation exists to serve you and the community you love. Anchoring, investing, and collaborating to improve the quality of life for all in Roscommon County. We are ready to help you choose the most effective and efficient way to make a difference right here in your community. Feel free to contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment to discuss your options. We can be reached by phone at 989-275-3112 or by email at info@ myrccf.org. With your support, we can truly make Roscommon County a better place to live, learn, work, and play, for everyone!

Human trafficking

Continued from page 11

victims are female.

-Michigan has one of the highest rates of child trafficking as well as one of the highest overall rates for all human trafficking in the nation.

If you see something, say something! Call 911 or the Human Trafficking hotline-1-888-373-7888. For more information contact The Polaris Project at http://www. polarisproject.org

Suzanne Luck

Sperry award recipients honored

By Donna Thoma

Puzzle can be found on page 11

awards for 2021 and 2022 to JoJean Thompson and Andrew Thompson.

The Sperry award is presented to an individual or group in recognition of their contributions to assist individuals with disabilities to overcome barriers and more fully participate in their communities.

JoJean, the 2021 recipient, serves as President of the Artesia Youth Park, and when applying for grants, also advocated for ROOC to obtain a new vehicle.

JoJean is employed as a substance abuse specialist with Catholic Human Services and serves as UP North Prevention Coordinator for Roscommon and Ogemaw counties. She is Executive Director of the OASIS homeless shelter. JoJean,

and husband Rev. Bryan Thompson, serve as pastors of the Weslyan Church of Houghton Lake.

The 2022 Sperry Memorial Award recipient, Andrew Thompson, was named Program Director of Artesia Youth Park in 2018. His goal at AYP is to provide a welcoming, safe place for the community to play and grow. Community minded, Andrew goes into schools and does lunch programs, runs the website for Artesia Youth Park, and takes care of the physical needs of the building.

Andrew works for Catholic Human Services and is the Youth Pastor of the Weslyan Church. His wife Charity serves as the Children’s Pastor. Together, they have four children.

REGION- Lyn Sperry, member of the COOR ISD board and daughter of the late Ralph Sperry, presented the Ralph R. Sperry Memorial

Somer Quinlan, Executive Director for COOR ISD, Andrew Thompson, 2022 award recipient, and Lyn Sperry COOR ISD board member.

Somer Quinlan, Executive Director for COOR ISD, JoJean Thompson, 2021 award recipient, and Lyn Sperry COOR ISD board member.

Sudoku Answer

Priscilla J. Overbaugh, 77, Houghton Lake, passed Dec 20

John Charles Marotzke, 80, Houghton Lake, passed Dec 19

Charles 'Bob' Robert Vincek, 88 Atlanta, passed Dec 19

Jacqualine J. 'Jackie' Smith, 85, Mio, passed Dec 20

Nicholas Thomas Harmer, 42, Frederic, passed Dec 6

Kishor Kumar C. Patel, 59, Grayling, passed Dec 20

Alma Alice Mitchell, 98, Frederic, passed Dec 23

Steven Arnold Millard Sr., 71, Prescott, passed Dec 22

Larry Jay Bovee, 77, South Branch, passed Dec 24

Jerry W. McCauley, 83, Hale, passed Dec 25

Maurita Ruth (Turner) Seeburger, 78, Hale, passed Dec 27

Doris Elizabeth Shumaker, 92, Hillman, passed Dec 25

Orley David Sewell, 78, Atlanta, passed Dec 27

Betty Jean Dick, 88, Roscommon, passed Dec 27

Iris Elizabeth Tapley, 87, Port Huron, formerly Roscommon, passed Dec 27

Opal E. Bruner, 84, Prudenville, passed Dec 26

Fredrick Brian Gatien, 68,Tawas City, formerly Spalding, passed Dec 25

Katherine Mary Parks, 93, East Tawas, formerly Linden, passed Dec 29

Jack Fischer, 83, Au Gres, passed Dec 27

William 'Bill' Barr, 68, Beaverton, passed Dec 29

Donald Harlan Lepper, 73, Grayling, passed Dec 27

Thomas Harold Beaulieu, 57, Grayling, passed Dec 30

Obituaries & Death Notices

Michael James Bruce, 64, Roscommon, passed Dec 25

David Ian Willis, 43, Oscoda, formerly Farmington Hills, passed Dec 27

James Steven Tkachuk, 72, Gladwin, passed Jan 1

Shane Lee Hadrich, 29, Roscommon, passed Dec 19

Joan Kay Waterman, 81, Roscommon, passed Dec 25

Gregory Bruce Lacey, 65, St. Helen, passed Jan 3

Fred Clifford Bush Jr., 67, Rose City, passed Jan 3

Richard 'Bud' Leroy Pratt, 79, Roscommon, passed Jan 3

Virginia 'Ginger' May Penman, 82, East Tawas, passed Jan 2

Loyd Kendall Danner Sr., 99, Rose City, passed Jan 3

Wayne B. Ellison, 82, Sterling, passed Jan 4

Linda Faye Burge, 75, Standish, passed Jan 5

Janice Marie 'Jan' (McCool) Salsbury, 83, Fairview, MI, passed Jan 5

Joan Karen Swayne, 79, Atlanta, passed Jan 4

Elizabeth Ann Schmitt, 93, West Branch formerly Charles City Iowa, passed Jan 8

Richard 'Rich' S. Rummel, 80, Lupton, passed Jan 8

Linda Pfannkuchen, 75, Au Gres, passed Jan 5

Constance Orstrander, 79, AuGres, passed Jan 6

Lois Ruth Peltier Grier, 91, Standish, passed away January 6

Rose Marie Cibor, 94, Waterford, formerly of Tawas City, passed away peacefully on Jan 5

Theodore John 'Ted' St. James, 83, Tawas City, passed Jan 10

Norman Earl Cook, 94, Fairview, passed Jan 9

Sadie 'Sally' Eileen McPherson, 92, Grayling, passed Jan 12

Gerald Edward Walther, 81, Tawas City, passed Jan 8

Margie June Degenhardt, 90, East Tawas, passed Jan 9

Ronald Leon Trezona, 93, Tawas City, Michigan formerly of Bay City, passed Jan 10

Calistro 'Sonny' Adame, 73, Hale, passed Jan 10

Ethal Ruth Sharp-Emrick, 101, Gladwin, passed Jan 11

Diana L. Ross-Bolinger, 77, Mio, Michigan, passed Jan 7

Dolores Suszko, 93, Standish, passed Jan 2

Kenneth 'Kenny' Herbert McKenzie, 64, Atlanta, passed Jan 2

Jerry Smallwood, 64, Grayling, passed Jan 2

William Edward Wolfe, 74, Grayling, passed Jan 3

Albert 'Mike' Raymond Ingalls, 86, Grayling, passed Jan 2

Phyllis Ann Dale, 69, Roscommon, passed Dec 21

Junior Edsel Palmer, 98, Grayling, passed Jan 4

Archie C. Hall, 99, Houghton Lake, passed Dec 30

Melbourne Eugene Legg, 84, Roscommon, passed Jan 5

Joseph P. Maxwell, 80, Higgins Lake, passed Dec 30

Sandra Lee Ludwig, 82, St. Helen, passed Jan 5

Michael David Nowak, 80, Roscommon, passed Jan 7

Jerome Adam Tomlian, 83, West Branch, passed Jan 8

MSP new Hale location

HALE- The West Branch Michigan State Police Post (MSP) relocated its detachment from East Tawas to Hale. The East Tawas facility was constructed in the 1930’s and was in a poor state of repair. Despite continual maintenance, it was no longer conducive to modern police practices or technology.

The MSP worked closely with Plainfield Township over a period of many months to secure a 1,700 square foot office suite in the Eagle Pointe Plaza.

“With the east side of Iosco County now being home to four other law enforcement agencies (Iosco Co Sheriff, Oscoda Twp PD, East Tawas PD, and Tawas City PD, it made sense in terms of efficiency to make the move so we can better

Ricky C. Wolf, 62, Lewiston, passed Jan 8

Donald Wilfred Morell, 89, Roscommon, passed Jan 10

Mary Ann Gibbons, 77, Grayling, passed Jan 10

Gary Archie Hurst, 67, Hillman, passed Jan 10

Harriet Alvina Scheller, 99, Hillman passed Jan 15

serve the residents and visitors within our post area.” Said Lt. Mike Brown, Assistant Post Commander for MSP.

The new location was remodeled to suit MSP’s security and technology requirements and became operational on December 20th.

MSP post in Hale at the Eagle Point Plaza.

Tagged walleye caught on Houghton Lake

HOUGHTON LAKE- It’s been a slow start to the Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau’s (HLATB) “Catch Us If You Can” fishing contest. But Mark Lambie of Eagle “broke the ice” and caught the first tagged fish for the 2022-23 year.

Lake New Year’s Eve day, Dec. 31, 2022, with a buddy. After catching one keeper, they moved spots looking for the bottom weeds.

“We moved to the middle grounds,” Mark said. “When it hit, I thought it was a perch. When it got up to the hole, I saw the tag.”

Lambie, who has a cottage on Houghton Lake, ice fishes there almost every weekend during the winter and often during the summer.

He registered the walleye at Lyman’s on the Lake in Houghton Lake, where he received a $50 gas card and was entered into the contest. The tagged fish could be worth $100,000 and a new Lund boat from Spicer’s Boat City in Houghton Lake – the grand prize in HLATB’s yearround fishing contest. The contest ends March 15 each year and begins again March 16.

For more information on the contest, please contact the HLATB office at 1-989-422-2002, 1-800-676-5330 or email info@ visithoughtonlake.com. Contest rules are found on www.visithoughtonlake.

Mark Lambie, of Eagle, holds the 15 ½” tagged walleye he caught in Houghton Lake. The tagged fish enters Lambie into the Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau’s fishing contest where he has a chance to win $100,000 and a new Lund boat.

Appetizers

Bread Stix

8-10 Freshly Baked Bread Stix. $4.50 75 cal/piece

Stuffed with Pepperoni add $1.75 18 cal/piece

Stuffed with Ham add $1.75 5 cal/piece

Mozzarella on Top or Inside add $2.50 34 cal/piece

Classic Red Pizza Sauce on Side add $1.00 40 cal/serving

Aged Cheddar Cheese Sauce add $1.50 35 cal/serving

Cheesy Bread

Pizza Crust Smothered in Garlic, Special Herbs & Mozzarella Cheese.

Small 10” $6.49 109 cal/piece

Large 14” $11.49 113 cal/piece

With Bacon: add $1.00 /Small 13 cal/piece $2.00 /Large 9 cal/piece

Spi-Rolls (Chicken or Pepperoni)

Chicken: Tender all white Chicken, smoky Bacon, melted Cheddar & Mozzarella, spi-rolled up into our own homemade pizza crust. Served with creamy Ranch for dipping. $7.99

89 cal/piece

Pepperoni: Spicy Pepperoni & melted Mozzarella spi-rolled up into our own homemade pizza crust. Served with our homemade, award winning Classic Red Pizza Sauce for dipping. $7.99

84 cal/piece

Chicken Wings & Boneless Wings

Oven-Roasted Hot BBQ

Sweet Heat Sweet Chili Zesty Orange

Salads

Garden Salad

Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Onions, Broccoli, Cheddar Cheese & Dressing.

Reg 391 cal / Sm 209 cal

Chef’s Super Salad

Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Pepperoni, Ham, Mushroom, Hard-Boiled Egg, Green Pepper, Onions, Mozzarella Cheese & Dressing.

Reg 431 cal / Sm 235 cal

Taco Salad

Corn Chips, Seasoned Ground Beef, Cheddar Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Black Olives & Taco Sauce.

Reg 840 cal / Sm 427 cal (includes Taco Sauce)

Greek Salad

Fresh Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Salami, Green Peppers, Onions, Kalamata Olives, Feta & Dressing.

Reg 635 cal / Sm 381 cal

Tossed Salad

Fresh Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato & your choice of Dressing.

Reg 139 cal / Sm 87 cal

NEW!

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Our new “Blue Ribbon” creation! Creamy White Sauce smothered with a blend of five Cheeses, topped with crispy breaded Chicken Breast and succulent Ham.

The Classics

Bourbon Spicy Garlic

Patrolman’s Deluxe

Southwest Steak & Portabella

Sliced Top Round complimented with sliced Portabella Mushrooms, accented with Sweet Red and Green Bell Peppers, Red Onion and Cheddar atop 100% pure Wisconsin Mozzarella & our special Southwest Sauce. 10.99

Patrolman’s Special Pepperoni, Ham, Mushrooms, Green Pepper & Onions.

Carnivore’s Feast

All Meat: Pepperoni, Ham, Ground Beef, Italian Sausage & Bacon.

10.99 13.99 18.75 21.99

/ 248 / 287 / 296 cal

Taco Pizza

Seasoned Ground Beef, Taco Sauce, Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheeses, Lettuce, Tomato & Black Olives. 10.99 13.99 18.75 21.99

Build Your Own

Portabella Salad

Spinach, Portabellas, Sun Dried Cherries, Sweet Red & Green Bell Peppers, Red Onion, Basil & Grape Tomatoes topped with Feta, Asiago, Romano, Parmesan Cheeses & Dressing.

Reg 356 cal / Sm 185 cal

Italian Salad

Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Pepperoni, Black Olives, Banana Peppers, Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese & Italian Dressing.

Reg 414 cal / Sm 231 cal

Chicken Salad

Lettuce, Spinach, Your Choice of Tasty

Chunks of Chicken Breast or Crispy Chicken, Tomato, Mushroom, Green Pepper, Onions, Mozzarella Cheese & Dressing.

Reg 466 cal / Sm 248 cal

TOSSED OTHER SALADS

Regular: $5.49

Small:

Greek-'Za Mediterranean

Fresh Spinach leaves, premium Hard Salami, fresh sliced vine-ripened Tomatoes, tasty Greek Kalamata Olives, zesty sliced Pepperoncini on an Olive Oil base with Wisconsin's best Mozzarella, fresh shredded Parmesan, Romano, Asiago and chunks of fresh Feta.

10.99 13.99 18.75 21.99

227 / 249 / 282 / 292 cal

Pizza Margherita

Chicken

PICK THE SIZE

The "SARGE" 20” 8 Huge

Bacon Double Cheeseburger Ground

Chicken Bacon Ranch

BBQ Chicken Pizza Tasty

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

CHOOSE THE TOPPINGS

Pineapple 4-15

Tomatoes 0-5

Broccoli 0-5

Jalapenos 0-5

Banana Peppers 0-5

BUILD THE CRUST

Classic Crust 71-355 cal

Gluten-Free Crust 67 cal 10” Only, Additional charge

Caulif lower Crust 98 cal 12” Only, Additional charge

Filled Crust:

Cheese 43-57 cal or Pepperoni 23-31 cal

Flavored Crust:

Garlic 3-4 cal or Parmesan 9-12 cal

GF all are GF all are

Keystone Pizza: Crust on Top & Bottom 71-355 cal

SELECT THE SAUCE

Ground Beef 15-50

Italian Sausage 30-85

Black Olives 5-30

Green Olives 10-35

*Bacon 15-45

*Anchovies 5-15

*Chicken 5-25

*Fresh Basil 0-5

GF all are

*Portabellas 0-5

*Feta 20-50

*Red Bell Peppers 0-5

*Spinach 0-5

*Turkey 5-20

*Artichoke Hearts 0-10

*Kalamata Olives 5-30

*Sliced Top Round 10-45

*Swiss Cheese 19-56

2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice, but calorie needs vary. Additional nutrition information available on request.

Gluten

Our greatest e ort is made to provide these products to be free of wheat/gluten ingredients. However, we are not a gluten-free facility and the possibility of cross-contamination does exist. Therefore, we are unable to guarantee these items to be free of all allergens. Certain products may vary from our suppliers from time to time, and therefore ingredients may vary.

If you are highly sensitive, we recommend discussing your situation with an owner / manager prior to placing your order.

Patrolman’s Deluxe

Southwest Steak & Portabella

Chicken Cordon Bleu

Greek-’Za Mediterranean Pizza Margherita Chicken Parmazeti

Oven-Baked Grinder

Enjoy your Sub on a White or Wheat* Italian Roll, or as a Wrap, Oven-Baked Grinder, or Gluten-Free Grinder** (Additional Charge). *Wheat roll availability varies per location. **Excludes Crispy Chicken, Taco Meat & Meatballs Subs and Grinders are served hot; Wraps are served cold- unless requested otherwise.

Calories listed are for a Sub. Subtract 178 cal for a Wrap. Add 253 cal for a Grinder.

Super Italian Sub

Salami, Pepperoni, Ham, Mozzarella, topped with Lettuce, Tomato & Italian Dressing

$7.99 1141 cal

The Club

Sliced Top Round, Turkey, Ham, Cheddar Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato & Mayo $7.99 1038 cal

Barbeque Sub

Your choice of Italian Meatballs, Sliced Top Round or Chicken with BBQ Sauce & Mozzarella $7.99 1056-1553 cal

Crispy Chicken Club

Crispy White Meat Chicken, Ham, Lettuce, Tomato & Cheddar Cheese-served with Ranch $7.99 1174 cal

Veggie Sub

Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Onions, Black Olives, Mozzarella, Lettuce, Tomato & Italian Dressing $7.99 989 cal

Chicken Sub

Tasty chunks of Chicken & Broccoli covered with Mozzarella, Oven-baked, then topped with Lettuce & Tomato- served with Ranch $7.99 1112 cal

Steak

& Portabella

Sliced Top Round & Portabellas with Sweet Red & Green Bell Peppers, Red Onion, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Lettuce, Tomato & Southwest Sauce $7.99 1220 cal

Pizza Sub

Up to 5 items, Pizza Sauce & Mozzarella $7.99 950-1200 cal

Meatball Sub

Italian Meatballs, Pizza Sauce & Mozzarella

$7.99 1402 cal

The B.L.T. Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato & Cheddar Cheese

$7.99 1236 cal

Taco Sub

Seasoned Ground Beef, Cheddar Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato & Taco Sauce $7.99 1118 cal

Cheese Steak Hoagie

Sliced Top Round, Cheddar Cheese, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Onions, Tomato, Lettuce & Mayo $7.99 1134 cal

Turkey Sub

98% Fat-Free Sliced Turkey Breast, Mozzarella, Lettuce, Tomato & Mayo $7.99 1011 cal

Build-Your-Own Oven-Baked Pasta or Lasagna

Pasta Noodles or Lasagna Red Sauce or Alfredo Choose Any Combination of Pizza Toppings Served with Garlic Bread $ 8.99 plus 75¢ per topping. 687 cal+

Chicken Parmazeti

Alfredo Pasta

Delicious Pasta Noodles, Seasoned Chicken, Fresh Tomatoes, Broccoli and Cheddar- with our Creamy Alfredo Sauce. $8.99 829 cal

NEW!

Pizza Bowls

Mac & Cheese

Cheesy Cheddar Mac ‘n Cheese $8.99 750 cal

Classic Lasagna $8.99 725 cal

Garlic Roll $2.49 493 cal

With Cheese add $1.00 172 cal

Tasty Specialties

Pizza Pocket (Calzone)

Keto Bowl: Pepperoni, Ham, Mushrooms, Ground Beef, Italian Sausage, Bacon, Classic Red Sauce & Mozzarella. $7.99 744 cal

Chicken Bowl: Chicken, Broccoli, Mushrooms, Tomatoes, White Sauce and Mozzarella. $7.99 719 cal

Build-Your-Own Bowl: Your choice of Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella, & up to 5 items. $7.99 297 cal+

NEW!

Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese and your choice of up to 5 Items. $8.49 803-1363 cal

Wet Burrito $7.99

Beef: 1078 cal or Chicken: 993 cal

Nachos Supreme $7.99

Beef: 1247 cal or Chicken: 1162 cal

Quesadilla $7.49

Steak: 675 cal or Chicken: 687 cal

Desserts

Cinnamon Crisp Pizza

Choose Apple, Cherry, S’More, or Plain Cinnamon. Large: $10.35 / Small: $7.49 115-142 cal/slice

Cinnamon Spi-Rolls with Pecans $5.99 110 cal/piece

LUNCH SPECIAL:

Cannoli

Six Mini-Pastries with Creamy Filling. Raspberry or Chocolate Drizzle. $6.99 71

Locally-owned and operated franchise locations ready to provide you with quality products and outstanding service at affordable prices.

231-627-4254

EAST JORDAN 101 N. LAKE ST. 231-536-5555

EVART 401 WEST 7TH ST 231-734-3922

GAYLORD 1525 W MAIN ST. 989-731-1555

GRAND RAPIDS 2034 LAKE MICHIGAN DR 616-301-8061

GRAYLING 307 SOUTH JAMES ST 989-344-2222

GREENVILLE 703 SOUTH GREENVILLE WEST DR 616-754-1122

HARBOR SPRINGS 930 STATE ST 231-526-2424

HART 2327 N. COMFORT DR 231-873-5555

HOWARD CITY 841 W. SHAW RD 231-937-9000

INDIAN RIVER 3695 S. STRAITS HWY 231-238-0055

KALAMAZOO 1710 W. MAIN ST. 269-532-1688

KALKASKA 104 N. CEDAR ST 231-258-8100

KAWKAWLIN 2338 S. HURON RD 989-671-2288

LAKE CITY 45 N. MOREY RD 231-839-1177

LAKEVIEW 9710 N. GREENVILLE RD 989-352-4002

LOWELL 1335 W. MAIN ST 616-897-9776

MACKINAW CITY 209 E. CENTRAL AVE 231-436-5500

PETOSKEY 910 SPRING ST (BAY MALL) 231-347-1212

PLAINWELL-OTSEGO 396 OAKS CROSSING 269-204-6612

ROSCOMMON 800 LAKE ST 989-275-1500

SPARTA 466 EAST DIVISION 616-887-1144

STANTON 620 N. STATE ST 989-831-7111

ST. IGNACE 277 N. STATE ST 906-643-0300

TRAVERSE CITY 3186 LAFRANIER RD/AIRPORT RD 231-995-9900

McDONOUGH,GA 140 W. CAMPGROUND RD 678-583-1550

By Donna Thoma

“What do I do now?” The amount of pain, shock, anguish, and distress in that question is immeasurable. It is a question asked of first responders, Victim Advocates, or perhaps expressed to no one by a victim or survivor when a traumatic event takes place.

When law enforcement, firefighters, or EMS are called out, they need to focus on the event in progress. What about those experiencing the trauma? Who may be able to console or guide them through whatever traumatic event is taking place?

A structure fire in progress, individual who has gone missing, accidents, drownings, sudden deaths, are a few of the incidents where first responders realize they need to have someone to be there with the family, friends, victims and/or survivors. Roscommon County and others are fortunate to have a group of volunteer advocates as a Victims Service Unit (VSU).

Former Roscommon County Sheriff Randy Stevenson, realizing there was a niche to be filled, along with Ed Pearen, Greg Haskell, and others, formed the Roscommon County Victims Services Unit (VSU)

in 2010. Victim Service Units have been established in communities nationwide under the auspices of local or state law enforcement.

The unit is designed to comfort and help victims immediately after an incident, by providing shortterm crisis intervention. Having no personal references for the traumatic events, most victims feel lost in need of guidance.”

The primary goal of VSU is to allow first responders to do their jobs, while the advocate teams take care of those in distress or suffering loss. The unit is basically a liaison between victim or survivor and law enforcement officers. Law enforcement or firefighters notify 911 dispatch to call out VSU when they see a need.

Victims Service Unit volunteers come from all walks of life. Retired folks, a pastor, former firefighters, teachers, bankers, moms, dads, and grandparents. Many, in their own lives, have experienced grief or emotional shock, lost a family member, friend, or acquaintance, to a traumatic experience. Members of the VSU can offer empathy as well as guidance to available services. Chairperson, Jann Lehman stated

▪ See VICTIM SERVICES on page 11 B

Volunteers of the Victims Services Unit along with Undersheriff Ben Lowe.

'What do I do now?'

Hale's Students of the Month

By Dalaney Kimmerer

HALE – Another month of excellent work is celebrated by our staff and students for the month of

January. Hale School is honored to present these students with the award this month. They were awarded their certificates at the board meeting on January 16, 2023.

The mystery of Jenkins's cabin

morning. We wouldn't see him again for months.

Home Country By Slim Randles

We all know someone will find Jenkins's cabin. Someday. Oh, it's up there in those hills somewhere. We all know that.

It's become a friendly object of conjecture and speculation. No one living has seen it, as far as we know. Jenkins himself died quietly when he was on one of his infrequent trips to town for supplies. Funny guy, that Jenkins.

He worked in the city for years, mostly as a night watchman in a factory that made diapers. Didn't really enjoy people much and told us many times about how nice it was to just be in the huge factory when it was quiet. Then one day he decided to move to the mountains and make pretty things out of leather. Once in a while he'd have his coffee at the counter at the Mule Barn, but often as not, he'd camp out on the edge of town for the two or three days it took him to sell his crafts and buy supplies. He'd smile and wave from his campsite, then he'd be gone one

Now and then, someone would ask him where his cabin was, and he'd just point toward the mountains and say, "Up there." How far up there? "A ways." What was his cabin like? "Not too big."

We came to regard the little cabin as an intriguing mystery, an object of local legend. After he died, several of the fellows tried to backtrack him to find the place, but Jenkins evidently didn't take the same trail each time, as though he wanted his quiet times protected from even a friendly visit from one of us. During his lifetime, we respected his wishes. In this country, a man has a perfect right to be a little strange. And, truth be known, we hold a certain admiration for those of us who hear different instructions. But there is something in the human spirit, also, that begs to have its mysteries solved. So now, several times each year, one or two of us will use the mystery of the lost cabin as an excuse to poke our noses into the nuances and seclusions of these hills. We play off our curiosity against our wishes to respect a man's privacy, even when he's gone.

We have yet to discover Jenkins's lost cabin. Maybe we never will. Maybe that wouldn't be such a bad thing, either.

Back Row (l to r) Russell Koepke, Isabella Barkholz, Kaitlyn Hollis, Kiley Katterman, Elaina McCadie, Lakelynne Dodridge Front Row (l-r) Brady Sheldon, Ruby Hainley, Brayden Farrand, Kolton Blake, Faith Koslakiewicz, Lillian Hurd

Nature preserve offering early release programming

ROSCOMMON- The Gahagan Nature Preserve and Roscommon Area Recreation Authority (RARA) will partner to offer programming on Roscommon Area Public Schools early release dates in February and March. Programs are held at the CRAF Center in Roscommon and will include nature-themed games, crafts and other sports and recreation activities.

Programs are held on Feb. 22 and Mar. 15 from 1-3:00 p.m. at

the CRAF Center: 606 Lake St. Roscommon, MI 48653.

These programs are free of charge, but registration is required as space is limited. Sign up online at https://bit.ly/EarlyReleaseFeb22 for the February program, and https:// bit.ly/EarlyReleaseMarch15 for the March program.

For more information or questions, please contact info@ gahagannature.org.

Crawford County Library News: February 2023

CRAWFORD COUNTY- The annual LOVE YOUR LIBRARY event will be held Thurs. Feb.16 from 4-6pm. The library is looking for items for the silent auction that will be going on during the event.

Our New Website! http://www. crawfordcolibrary.org/ It’s still a work in progress, things will be updated regularly!

February’s Book Club read will be “Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt” This book is available on our e-readers. Ask clerks at circulation desk for more details. The meeting will take place Feb. 22, at 1pm. If you have any questions, call (989)348-9214.

Pick up a calendar at one of the Crawford County Library’s branches, online to our website, or Facebook account to see the most recent calendar of events with programs and guest authors!

Need to utilize our conference

rooms? Stop at the desk and check-in using our Sign-in Notebooks! You can also find a link to our Conference Room Request Form on our library website under Services; if you are in need of a meeting space or study area.

Do you shop on Amazon? The library has its very own Wish-list! Items will be labeled with the name of the purchaser/donator. Inquire within for more details.

We are now FINE FREE! If you return one of our books/DVDs late, no worries! There are exceptions. Hotspots, e-readers, board games, and interlibrary loans will still have late fees. If items are returned damaged, there will be a fee as well.

Stop in the Devereaux Memorial Library and see the current Patron Review by Heidi Brill. Please put your name in the basket by the circulation desk to be drawn for the next Patron Review!

Tip Up Town 2023

HOUGHTON LAKE- This Tip Up Town was a little different than past years. No snow and warm January temps left us all wondering if the show would go on.

Even though the snowmobile and ATV races were not able to take place, Tip Up Town did not disappoint! Kids games, pony rides, the Family Fun Tent, and amazing

food vendors still made this event well worth the visit.

The highlight of this year’s Tip Up Town was the Rodeo put on by Triple D Ranch and the Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce. From children to adults, everyone was cheering and getting into the cowboy scene!

Oliver, Orion, and Allison enjoying TUT carnival

The Myers family having photo booth.

Clyde, Steve, and Jay from the Knights of Columbus serving hot cocoa at TUT to raise donations for their group.

Queens Court Rep. Natalee Witt, Queen Lara Watson, and Queens Court Rep. Heather Emerick stop for the crowd during the parade. Previous TUT Queen Sandra Colman and TUT Princess Ciara Robinson joined the float festivities as well.

Above: TUT Queen Lara Watson warming up in the Family tent working on hair pieces for the kids. Right: The Willett sisters enjoying the snowy day on the pony ride.

Kailin Crummey getting a butterfly by face painter, Lindsey.

Allison Sauve carnival games.

Live music for all to hear at the Family Tent.

rider comes

No snow to blow

By Joel Vernier, View From the Comfy Chair

I was enjoying a well-deserved nap and felt a tug on my left shoulder; my wife said, "Joel, you promised to shovel the snow today!" I replied, "I'm on it!" Something about getting up from a nice nap, cocooned in my "Comfy Chair," and heading out into the vast tundra of my driveway to shovel snow is truly not appealing. Suppose it's windy when the snow blower shoots out the stream of glistening cold snow. In that case, it inevitably blows back onto your face, glasses, and hat, basically coating you like a powdered sugar donut.

I gradually woke up; the widescreen was playing a movie that must have started when I nodded off. No sense in watching it without the opening scenes to set the tone and plot of the movie.

I decided to get up and prep myself for my wild adventure, shoveling and blowing snow for the next 2 hours. I revved up the

ambrosia of one cup of coffee. For those who don't like the waste of leftover pods, we use the traditional coffee pot with filters in the morning, which is the only coffee of the day. Still, with the wintery task ahead of me, I needed a cup to warm and wake me up.

I began the arduous process of getting dressed for the arctic conditions I would be living in. The recommendation is to dress in layers, which takes time and coordination of many clothing items. After 15 minutes of layering, I was ready to enter the hostile winter environment.

I opened the garage door, and to my surprise, there was no snow on the driveway, lawn, or street. No snow anywhere. I glanced at the calendar on the refrigerator; the month was January. This is Michigan, and we always have snow in January. We survived 2020, 2021, and 2022; in 2023, we have almost no snow in January.

Don't get me wrong, I'm delighted that I do not have to shovel snow, and

New breakfast choice for Grayling

GRAYLING- Breeze Bakery and Breakfast Food truck will be permanently located at Charlie’s Country Corner truck stop in Grayling as of mid-January.

They serve breakfast and brunch

with all fresh, all from scratch, (never frozen) ingredients! The Breeze will be offering croissants, muffins, breakfast burritos, and more. Look for the aqua blue truck every morning at 7 am, 7 days a week.

Breeze Bakery and Breakfast Food truck Owner Aleksa Fortuna with her Fiancée Josh.

See COMFY CHAIR on page 9 B

Comfy Chair

Continued from page 8 B

I have not shoveled snow for weeks as my mind continued to clear up with the coffee in my system. Is it me, or does the world seem like it's spinning backwards or upside down. Another issue that we have to accept in this crazy world.

I have not heard a cool descriptive word from the meteorologists to describe what is happening. They usually have some new terms for us to learn. What about "Desert No-Snow-Storm!" or "Winter Dry Gulch!"

"Artic No-Snow Phenomena!"

Three retire from Sheriff’s Department

By

Donna Thoma ROSCOMMON-

(24 years),

Dean

Jeff

years), and Lt. Eric Tiepel (26 years) were honored for their dedication and decades of service to the Roscommon County Sheriff's Department. Approximately 60

co-workers, family, and friends attended the event at the CRAF Center, on January 13.

Sheriff Ed Stern presented each with a certificate of retirement from the department. They also were presented with a sign stating their name, Roscommon County Sheriff

Department and the years served.

While they are “retiring” from the department, they are pursuing new careers and new chapters in their lives. Sheriff Stern reiterated his appreciation for their dedication, service, and friendship over the years. Stating, “we are a family.”

It will be interesting this year, as we usually average about the same amount of precipitation each year. Watch out for February or for a very wet spring!

The following day, I was napping and felt a tugging on my shoulder? "Joel, you need to shovel the snow." I looked out on the deck, and there were several inches of snow. Oh well, it is January!

Deputy

Greiser

Sgt.

Maeder (24

Sgt. Dean Marder, Lt. Eric Tiepel, Sheriff Ed Stern, and Deputy Jeff Greiser.

What did one piece of toast say to the other?

"You're my butter half!"

One morning Emma woke up with a start. Her husband Jim asked what the matter was, she told him, "I just had a dream that you gave me a pearl necklace for Valentine's day. What do you think it means?"

"You'll know tonight," Jim said.

That evening, Jim came home with a small package and gave it to his wife. Delighted, Emma opened it - only to find a book entitled "The meaning of dreams”.

Barista: How do you take your coffee?

Me: Very, very seriously.

What's the difference between a $20 steak and a $55 steak?

February 14th.

Knock, knock. Who’s there?

Abraham Lincoln.

Abraham Lincoln who?

Seriously? You must have done terrible in history class.

The couple’s therapist said, “So, tell me what brings you here today?” My wife said, “It’s difficult to live with him. He’s so literal.” I said, “My truck.”

How can you save money on Valentine's gifts?

Become single.

Man: "Honey, on this Valentine's Day, I want to tell you something... I'm not rich like Jack. I don't have a mansion like Russell. I don't have a Porsche like Martin. But I do love you and I want to marry you."

Woman: "Oh, dear, I love you too! What was that you said about Martin?"

Which rock group has four men who don’t sing?

A: Mount Rushmore.

4-H Kids-nCakes

Club

IOSCO COUNTY- The 4-H Kidsn-Cakes Club is led by 4-H Volunteer Susan Weishuhn. The club members met for 8 weeks to learn how to decorate cakes and practice their skills.

The club wrapped up the season with a cake decorating contest held January 12. Winning Best of Show ribbons were Fletcher Sabin, Aurora Bonk, Aven King, and Aslin Senske. Linda and Jason Palmer judged the competition.

Above: A proud Fletcher Sabin with his decorated cake and best of show ribbon.

Left: Aslin Senske showing off her cake decorating skills with her best of show ribbon.

Senior News: February 2023

By Suzanne Barker, Oscoda Senior News

Hello February! It seems that winter can’t decide if it wants to stay or not. The back and forth, up, and down, temperatures have been different.

So many days without sunshine have not been great for wintertime blues. If there is any sunshine or even just daylight, try to get outside at least once a day even for just a few minutes. Take the dog out, check the mail, or just sit on the porch. If it is too cold or snowy for that then at least open the blinds or curtains and sit in front of the windows for a while.

Try to keep yourself busy with puzzles, small projects, or crafts, or play solitaire. Stay active, even indoors. If you can, connect with a family member or friend daily. Just a few minutes of conversation can make a difference in your mood.

It is also helpful to keep yourself warm enough in the house. Some of us like to dial down the heat because it saves money, but if we are cold, it can also add to our depression. So, if you’re dialing down, add a sweater and warm socks.

February is a short month but has a lot of happenings. Ground

Victim services

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“we may just need to be a shoulder to cry on or offer hugs.”

Not all in need are adults. Victims Service advocates offer consolation and help to children and infants, have help aids for autistic individuals, and may be able to assist in getting caretakers for family pets.

Caring volunteers, as with any organization, are always needed. VSU advocates are required to

Hog Day, Lincoln’s birthday, Washington’s birthday, President’s Day, and the day February is most known for, Valentine’s Day.

Traditionally, Valentine’s Day is associated with couple love. I believe we should just treat it as a day of love for all! We can each try to do a loving act of kindness for someone else. A family member, friend, or even a stranger. A simple act of a homemade card, helping with a chore, holding a door open, or greeting a passerby with a big smile and a have a wonderful day comment. We can all make a difference just by making a small effort, and hopefully causing a ripple effect with our actions. Give it a try, spreading joy feels great!

The CSFP (senior cheese box) will be on Tues. Feb 14 from 10-11 a.m., and the Together We Can food drop will be on Thurs. Feb. 23 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Both food pick-ups happen at the Fairgrounds.

The council’s monthly board meeting is on Mon. Feb. 13 at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend. The Board will be discussing filling the two vacancies on the board at this month’s meeting.

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complete twelve hours of training prior to going out on call. Training is free and covers a host of situations, and guidance. When called out, the advocates always respond as teams.

If interested in sharing your expertise, understanding and care with others, contact Ben Lowe, Under Sheriff for Roscommon County at the Sheriff's Department non-emergency line 989-275-5101.