Music in Hale pg. 3
Out and About pg. 4
Mio Scouts pg. 9
Rosco boaters' safety pg. 9
Camp Good Grief pg. 11
Iosco Fair pg. 14
Grayling shelter pg. 15
Rose City Market pg. 17
Canoe Marathon pg. 20
Obits pg. 24
Above, the cadets had the opportunity to get inside helicopters that are operated by the Michigan State
▪ See pg 22 for more story and photos.
By Donna Thoma ROSCOMMON COUNTY-
Bringing a “harvest of food and hope to our neighbors” is the goal of the volunteer, non-profit, Roscommon County Food Pantry. “Every dollar, item of food, or volunteer hour donated to the Roscommon County Food Pantry, directly assists the residents of Roscommon County. Founded with the mission of assuring that all residents of Roscommon County never go hungry, the Houghton Lake Roscommon County Food Pantry location has served over 2,000 unduplicated foods to impoverished families in the past twenty-seven months. Additionally, each of the eight to ten food trucks per year assists another 250 families per
distribution. That amounts to nearly 4,500 total families determined food insecure or impoverished.
According to local accounts, the Roscommon Food Pantry originally came out of emergency and necessity back in the 1980's following a housefire in the Houghton Lake area. Neighbors and friends gathered small furniture, clothing, and food for the affected family. Those involved realized a greater need in their community, and Denton Township gave them space to use, if the group would pay for the utilities and phone bill. Seven years ago, the Roscommon County Food Pantry moved to its current Loxely Street location, allowing easier access for
▪ See FEEDING THE HUNGRY on page 7
GRAYLING- Are you looking for something different this month? Check out the 3rd annual “Guns & Hoses” softball tournament. The Crawford County Sheriff's Department will take on the Grayling Fire Department Sat., Aug 17 at 1 p.m. at the Hansen Hills Ball Field in Grayling. Come check out the fun!
MIO- The McKinley Civic Center welcomes you to join McKinley Fun Day on McKinley Rd. in Mio on Sat., Aug 17. There will be music, food, crafters, a dunk tank, kid’s games, a cake walk, a corn hole tournament, and a parade with a kid’s bike and side by side contest! Visit the McKinley Fun Day page on Facebook for more information.
OGEMAW COUNTY- The National Night Out and Resource
▪ See AUGUST EVENTS on page 6
1. Country Corners Bulk Food - Cheese, bulk food, baking supplies, candy, home remedies, discount items, burn and wound supplies, Now Foods supplements and essential oils.
• 1284 W Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-6063
2. Nature's Beauty Rustic Furniture - Handcrafted custommade home furnishings, large and small. "True beauty in wood!"
• 860 E. Kneeland Rd. ~ 989-848-2806
3. Country Feed Supply - Full line of feeds, popular brands of pet food and supplies, Dairy Doo potting mixes, raised garden boxes, large selection of bird seed and feeders, food plot seeds and supplies. • 389 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-2305
4. North Country Realty - We are available to assist you with your sale or purchase of property. Hours: M-W-F 9-5 & Sat 10-2. Stop in or call our sales agents anytime. We have investors to assist you. Email: NCR@NorthCountryMio.com.
• 60 S. Mount Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-3505
5. The Egg Man - Sale of fresh eggs. Look for the sign in the front yard. Like us on Facebook: John Saudon! Email:JSauden488@gmail.com • 72 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 734-652-3204
6. North Star Storage Barns - Custom buildings, many to choose from. • 398 N. Mount Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-1000
7. Echo Ridge Fabrics - Fabrics, notions, Amish clothing (infant to adult), toys and games, arts and crafts supplies, home decor. • 1734 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 989-826-1913
8. Sweet Success Sugarbush - Maple syrup goods. • 1442 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 989-826-3160
9. Pioneer General Store - Not just your average hardware and home store. • 432 N. Mt Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-3580
10. Blue Jay Valley Greenhouse - Flowers, vegetables, plants, various garden fertilizers, conventional and no-till drill rentals, fresh fruit and produce in season. Open April 15-October 31 (Closed July 1-31) • 1300 N. Perry Creek Rd. ~ 989-848-7337
11. Shady Lane Footwear & Oak Hill Furniture - Footwear for the entire family, handcrafted solid wood furniture, with full line of weather resistant wood, and poly resin outdoor furniture. • 68 E. Kneeland Rd. ~ 989-848-8265
12. The Farmer's Creamery - Full-line of quality fresh dairy products including ice cream, baked goods, deli, Sandwiches, 100% grass-fed meat and you can even watch our production process through our observation • 50 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-8368
13. Sensenig's Repair - We are an authorized service center dealer for your: Jonsered, Dolmar, Echo, Poulan-Pro, Honda, Briggs & Stratton, Arborists Supplies, MTD. We have a wide selection of all parts for all makes and models. Come see us for your lawn moving needs too. • 432 E. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-848-8346
14. Gascho's Produce - Hours are seasonal, stop in and check out our fresh local produce. • 135 Roman Rd. ~ 989-826-5200
15. Maple Ridge Metal Supply - Specializing in pole barn supplies, residential metal roofing, siding, doors/windows. Commercial & Residential. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7am-4pm, Sat. 8am-11am • 748 N. Gerber Rd. ~ 989-826-5752
16. Crosscut Meats - Come check out our meat selection, steak and more. You can can bring us your animal for process or we can cannect you with farmers to help fill your freezer.
• 134 N. Mount Tom Rd. ~ 989-889-5769
17. Loopie Lu Sweets - Full service dessert bakery with speciality espresso coffees of Michigan. Come enjoy our famous '49' different cheesecakes! Like us on Facebook.
• 463 S. Mount Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-1956
By Donna Thoma
ROSCOMMON- Sunshine and blue skies provided smooth floating for all the little “yellow duckies” on July 14. Anxious ticket holders eagerly watched from the banks of the south branch of the AuSable in Wallace Park, hoping their “duckie” would win.
Heat #1 - Shawna Smith (1st) and Ben Lowe (2nd).
Heat #2 - Phil Weiler (1st) and Julie Nordquist (2nd)
Heat #3 - Roger Freed (1st) and Ken Hellebuyck (2nd)
The twenty final winners in placement order from 1 – 20 were: John Walsh, Betty Spangler, Renee' Sauttanian, Frank Swarthout, Tom Samotts, Jeff Leipprandt, Sandi Myers, Jennifer Bunyak, Ashley Donland, Cassie Smutny, Bobbi Ocean, Kim Gibbs, Marissa Bradley, Amy Vandenberg, Ron Alden, Shawna Smith, John Crandell, Suzie Blanchard, Wendi Tazzia, and Don Pennell.
Congratulations to all the winners and a special thank you to all who sold and purchased tickets this year. Rotary is pleased to have sold all the tickets.
By Kristi Major
HALE- What if for one day everything stopped, and we just listened to the music? That question is asked, and answered, every year on Play Music on the Porch Day. The event has been held on the last Saturday in August for the last 10 years.
Last year over 1000 musicians in 40 countries participated! The unique feature of the event is seeing all the videos posted throughout the day on their official Facebook page as the event passes through each time zone. You may see a solo guitarist on her porch in Australia, a group of bagpipes in a pub in Scotland, a harpist overlooking the cliffs in Ireland, even a tribe in South Africa!
The variety of music and instruments is amazing.
Hale resident and violinist Kristi Major has organized an afternoon of musicians to perform at the Hale Gazebo located at the main intersection of town and will be uploading videos onto the events Facebook page throughout the day. Everyone’s invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket and cooler. There will also be food trucks on site. This is a free and family friendly event. Parking is at the Huntington Bank lot, the Scofield lot next to the Gazebo and the Library/Activity Center lot to the north.
Whether you pause for a moment or stay for the entire afternoon, you will be part of a unique event that connects us all through music. Don’t miss the fun, Saturday August 31 from 12- 5 p.m. Visit playmusicontheporchday.com for more details.
FARMERS' MARKETS:
Wed: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.- Northeast Michigan Regional Farm Market- 4440 US-23, Oscoda
Wed: 1:30 - 5:00 p.m.- Ogemaw East Branch Library Farmers Market- 220 Washington St, Prescott
Thurs: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.- Grayling
Farmers Market- 213 N. James Street, Grayling
Fri: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.- Houghton Lake
Farmers Market- 1625 W. Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake
Fri: 1 - 4 p.m.-Skidway Lake Library
Farmer’s Market- 1938 Greenwood Rd, Prescott
Fri: 1-5 p.m.- Rose City Farmer’s Market- 429 N Williams St, Rose City
Fri: 2 – 6 p.m.- Standish Farmers Market- 107 N Main St, Standish
Sat: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.- West Branch
Farmers Market- S 3rd Street, West Branch
Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Gladwin Farmers
Market- 200 N State St, Gladwin
Sat: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.- Skidway Lake
Farmer’s Market- 1938 Greenwood
Sat: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.- Roscommon
Village Market- AuSable River Center, 211 N Main St, Roscommon
Sat: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.- Rose City
Farmer’s Market- 429 N Williams St, Rose City
Sat: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.- Grayling Farmers Market- 213 N. James Street, Grayling
Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Plainfield
Township Farmers Market- Hale
Resource Center, M-65 Hale
Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Arenac
Conservation District Farmers Market107 N Main Street, Standish
Sat: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Northeast
Michigan Regional Farm Market- 815 W Lake Street, Tawas City
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
Grayling, Frederic, Lovells
4- 2nd Annual Northern
Strike 5K, check in starts at 8 a.m., shotgun start at 10 a.m., run/walk/ ruck, $50 entry fee, $30 for veterans, students, soldiers, register at www. funpromotions.com/events, Camp Grayling Parade Field
Crawford County Extras
Mon-Fri- Council on Aging Lunch- 11a.m.-12 p.m.
Mon-Fri- Council on Aging Dinner- 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Mon- Chess Club-1-4 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Wed- Mahjong – 1-3 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Wed - Bike Night- 7 p.m., Gallagher's Sports Bar & Grill, 3997 E. M-72
Thurs- Penny Bingo – 1-3 p.m.
Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Thurs- Pokeno- 10 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Fri- Pantry Bingo – 1-3 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers – 10-11 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Tues & Thurs- Zumba Gold – 10-11 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
1st Sun. - American Legion Breakfast Buffet, at 9 a.m., American Legion Post 106 1st Tue.- Friends of a Feather- 9
a.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging
2nd Mon. - Post meeting, 7 p.m., American Legion Post 106 2nd Tues - Grayling American Legion Aux Post meeting, 5:30 p.m., Grayling
2nd Thurs- Veterans Coffee hour, 10 a.m., Grayling American Legion
2nd Thurs - Families against Narcotics, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis Episcopal Church
2nd Sat. - Euchre Tournament, 6 p.m., American Legion
ROSCOMMON COUNTY: Roscommon, Higgins Lake, Prudenville, Houghton Lake, St. Helen
2- 1st Friday Food Truck Festival, 4:30-8 p.m., Houghton Lake Historical Playhouse, 1701 W Houghton Lake Dr.
8- Thursday Concert: Funkle Jesse, 6:30-8:30 p.m., classic rock and more, Trestle Park, Prudenville 10-11- 52nd Annual Village Days, carriage wagon rides, blacksmith demonstrations, kids games, and much more! Houghton Lake Area Historical Society, 1701 W Houghton Lake Dr. 17- Family Fun Day, 1-4 p.m., Trestle Park, Prudenville 22- 35th Anniversary Celebration for the Sports Barn of Higgins Lake, 4-6 p.m., hotdogs & chips, door prizes, and live music by Seth Kilbourn and more, 9475 N. Cut Rd., Roscommon
24- St. Helen Lake Association Fish Stocking Fish Fry, $10 per person, mixture of bluegill, perch walleye, and pollack, cash bar, silent auction, proceeds benefit the St. Helen Lake Association Fish Stocking Initiative, American Legion Post 416, 10062 Ford Dr., St. Helen
Roscommon County Extras
Mon - Reserve Tech HelpHoughton Lake Public Library
Mon- Zumba Class- 4:45- 5:45 p.m.
Mon, Thurs, Fri- St. Helen Baptist Church Food Closet, 12-3 p.m.
Mon, Thurs, Fri- AA Meeting, St Helen Baptist Church, 10-11a.m.
Tues – Roscommon Ukes Strum and Sing, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Ages 8-80, Roscommon Area District Library
Tues – AA Meeting, St Helen Baptist Church 7-8p.m.
Weds- Make Shop at Made Up North- Craft workshops during the day- call for more information 989281-1250
Thurs - Sit & Get Fit, 2:30 p.m., Roscommon Area District Library
Fri - Story-time Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Houghton Lake Public Library
Fri- C.A.I.R (Christians
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
Continued from page 4
Associated in Recovery), 7 p.m. St Helen Baptist Church Sat- Zumba Class- 10-11 a.m. CRAF Center $20
1st Thurs- Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m., Blogett Airport
Houghton Lake
2nd Sun. – VFW Country Breakfast, 8 a.m., VFW Post 4159
2nd Thurs. – B2B Breakfast, 8 a.m., Village of Roscommon
3rd Wed. – Michigan Fireman’s Memorial Festival Meeting 6:30 p.m.
Check the MSU Extension Webpage for their list of upcoming classes at http://bit.ly/MSUEevents or call 989-275-5043
IOSCO COUNTY:
Hale, Whittemore, Tawas
6- National Night Out & Resource Fair, 5-8 p.m., face painting, games, crafts, see police cars and fire trucks, Washington St., Prescott
6- No Baloney, 8:30 p.m., free, live music, Newman St, East Tawas
9- Sunrise Side Sand Festival, and sculptors, food trucks, & live music, Oscoda Beach Park, Oscoda
13- KJ Summerville, 8:30 p.m., free, live music, Newman St, East Tawas
12-18- Michigan Mud Jam, Iosco County Fairgrounds, Hale 20- Blues Abusers, 8:30 p.m., free, live music, Newman St, East Tawas
31 & Sept 1- Labor Day
Weekend Art & Craft Show, Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Shoreline Park, Tawas City Iosco County Extras
Mon - BINGO, 6:30 p.m., Whittemore Chamber of Commerce
3rd Tues. - Whittemore Chamber Meeting, 7 p.m., 405 E. Sherman Street
3rd Thurs- Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. American Legion Post 211 900 E. Lincoln, East Tawas
OGEMAW COUNTY:
West Branch, Rose City, Lupton
10-11- Victorian Art Fair, Sat: 9
a.m.-5p.m., Sun:10 a.m.-4 p.m., Irons Park, West Branch
13-17- Ogemaw County Fair,
2300 Rife River Trail, West Branch
17- West Branch Animal Meet, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., animals and farmer’s market, rain or shine, Pioneer Tractor, 302 W M55, West Branch
24- Disaster Preparedness Expo, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., family safety information, food, kids splash pad, emergency vehicles, helicopter landings, Rose City Park
Ogemaw County Extra
Tues. – Kiwanis Club of West Branch, at Noon, Buccilli’s of West Branch
Weds. – BINGO, Early Birds at 6:30 p.m., Regular 7:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus off M-30
Weds. – AL-ANON meeting, 8 p.m., 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First Street
Weds. – Culvers Cruise In, 6 – 8 p.m., Culvers West Branch
Thurs. – Optimist Club, 7 a.m., Loggers Depot, 314 Houghton
Avenue
1st Sun. – Adult Children of Alcoholics, 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 2490 State Road
1st & 2nd Mon. – City Council meeting, 6 p.m., West Branch City Hall, 121 N. Fourth Street
1st & 3rd Tues. – Rose City Council meeting, 6 p.m., Council Chambers, 310 N. Williams Street
1st Tues. – West Branch Retail Merchants meeting, 6 p.m., City Police Station, 130 Page Street
1st Wed.- Ogemaw County Veterans Coffee Hour- 9-10 a.m.
1st & 3rd Thurs. - Newborn Parent Support Group, 6 p.m., MyMichigan Health West Branch in the Executive Dining Room
1st Thurs. – Ogemaw County Fair Board meeting, 7 p.m., meets in main building
2nd Mon. - Kiwanis Young Professional Club, 6 p.m., Highway Brewing Company
2nd Tues – Parkinson's Disease Support Group, 2:00 p.m., MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch Executive Dining Room
2nd Wed. – Aktion Club, 9:30 a.m., United Methodist Church
2nd Wed. - Business Professional Women’s group, 5 p.m.
2nd Wed. - Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia Support
▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 6
Continued from page 5
Group, 2- 3:30 p.m. MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch Executive Dining Room
2nd & 4th Thurs. - Healing Together – Compass Hospice, 10 a.m., Ogemaw Commission on Aging, 1508 M-33
3rd Mon. - Disabled American Veterans & Auxiliary meeting, 5 p.m., VFW Post 3775
3rd Tues.- OCGHS General Membership Board meeting, 2:30 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 100 E. Houghton Avenue
3rd Thurs. – Vet2Vet Peer Support Group 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church corner of Fairview and State Road, for more info call 989-873-6088
3rd Thurs. - Ogemaw Area Swim Boosters 6 p.m., Ogemaw Heights High School Room 210
OTHER REGIONS:
2-3- 57th Annual Northern Michigan Relief Sale, Friday night gospel concert at 7 p.m., Friday family movie night at 9 p.m., quilt auction Saturday 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., hot food, and lots more, for more information contact Eugene: 989-928-2680, Oscoda County Fairgrounds
2- S.T.O.P. 3rd Annual Golf Outing, 9 a.m., $125 per person, $500 per team, buffet style lunch with cash bar, registration and
payments due by July 26, for more information contact Ashley: 517-7494527, Otsego Golf and Ski Resort, 696 E M-32, Gaylord
6-11- Alcona County Fair, Lincoln
9-10- Oscoda County Heritage Days, Friday:12-6 p.m. cardio drumming, exotic zoo, outdoor movie, Saturday: 9 a.m.- 9p.m. cowboy church, logging competition, pie contest & much more, Oscoda County Fairgrounds, Mio
10- Jo Serrapere Duo, doors open at 6 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m., advance $20 tickets available at Eventbrite, Skyline Event Center, 3309 Abbe Rd, Comins
17-11th ORV Fun Fest, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., $70 for driver, $30 per rider, 70+ miles, mud pit, and prizes, pre-register by Aug 10th, gladwincountychamber.org
31-Luzerne Labor Day Bash, 11 a.m. crafts and vendors in downtown Luzerne, 2 p.m. parade, food trucks at Comstock Park, 6-11 p.m. live entertainment by the “Atomic Sound” at the American Legion, fireworks at dusk
2nd and 4th Fri- Clothes Closet for Adults- 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.- Comins Community Church- 4263 W. First St. Comins
4th Weds- Cheboygan Co Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m.
-Cheboygan VFW
3rd Thurs- Craft Day- 10 a.m.- 4
p.m.- TriPoint Church of God- 831 W. Miller, Mio
4th Thurs- Alpena Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. Art in the Loft
Every Mon- Bible Study- 10 a.m. & 7 p. m. - Living Water Lutheran Church behind Dollar General, Mio
Every Tues- Women's Group6:30 p.m.- TriPoint Church of God- 831 W. Miller, Mio- for more info call Deb 989-390-2708
Every Tues- Pickleball- 1 p.m.TriPoint Church of God for more info call Pastor Jody 989-390-9150
Every Tues 5/2- 5/30- Grief Share Support Group- 2-4 p.m.Mio UMC- for more info call Barb Butler 989-390-6617
Every Weds- Men's Fellowship10 a.m.- Living Water Lutheran Church
Every Weds- Women's Bible Study- 10 a.m. Living Water's Lutheran Church
Every Weds- Burgers Grilled on the Patio- 4:30-7pm - Luzerne American Legion
Every Thurs- Men's Group- 7 p.m.-TriPoint Church of God- for more info call Gene 989-350-0638
Every Sun- Pickleball- 3 p.m.TriPoint Church of God for more info call Pastor Jody 989-390-9150
1st Fri- Fish Fry Dinner, Luzerne American Legion, 4:30-7 p.m.
2nd & 4th Sundays – Live Music Open Mic Productions, 2-4 p.m., Seymore Avenue at First Street, Comins. For more info call 989-3906977
The Up North Voice is looking for freelance writers. If you have interest in local events, interviews with community members, and have a passion for writing, we want to talk to you!
Please email alicia@upnorthvoice.com for more information.
Continued from page 1 Fair will be Tues., Aug. 6 from 5-8 p.m. in the Village of Prescott. Family activities including face painting, crafts, games, fire trucks, and more entertainment will be at this free event.
Continued from page 1
individuals as well as the ability to serve the greater need.
Executive Director Chris Ashcraft, and Kim Ashcraft, Grant Coordinator/Treasurer of the “Pantry” stated, three to four years ago they averaged 200 families per month coming to the “Pantry” location, and that has increased to 550 families per month over the past ten months. The Ashcraft’s believe there are many more in need but, some of those - “don't want to take from anyone else,” or may feel uncomfortable. Of the eighty-three counties in Michigan, Roscommon currently ranks ninth in poverty. The greatest need is food.
Schools recognize that children who are food insecure may struggle in school. There are programs in place to address some of that issue, such as the “backpack” program, free breakfasts and lunches or reduced lunches, to name a few. Many of those families also utilize the “Pantry.” In Michigan, 1,423,000 individuals statewide are food insecure, 378,040 or one in six, are children. Roscommon County ranks eighth in poverty statewide, tied for first in child poverty, and third highest in food insecurity.
Much of “Up north” and Roscommon County are locations where many have come to retire. The senior population of Roscommon County amounts to 34% of
individuals over 65. Chris stated that, in his opinion, seniors are in the greatest need. Commenting that he believes there are three classifications of seniors. Those who stayed working after their retirement age, those who retired and then had to go back to work and those over 75 who are on a fixed income, or as he refers to them, the “super seniors.”
The group of seniors who'd retired and then had to return to work, are in the greatest need of assistance.
The “Pantry” has a USDA contract through the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan out of the Flint Food Distribution Centers. Dairy foods and produce for the “Pantry” are purchased at Save-A-Lot through a grant by the Allen Foundation. Roughly 50% of their budget is through various local, state, and federal grants. The balance of their budget comes from organizations and individual donations.
One organization that sponsors a yearly food truck, is the Roscommon Sheriff's Victim Service Unit (VSU). They purchase a truck load of food in honor of Lynda Hogaboom, former VSU Director, who passed away suddenly in 2021.
Lynda and her husband, Larry, retired from the Salvation Army, moving to the Houghton Lake area in 2003, where they volunteered in many areas, including the Food Pantry. When Larry passed away in 2017, Lynda became more involved
at the “Pantry,” eventually as Executive Director.
Chris recalled that he was “happily retired, fishing on his own little lake,” when he met his neighbor Lynda Hogaboom. Lynda had a way of encouraging others to help in whatever efforts she was involved in, and Chris and Kim were no exceptions. Realizing the Food Pantry was growing, she needed more help, and as Chris had a Business Management Degree, Lynda encouraged him to take over as Executive Director. Shortly after, Lynda became ill with Covid and passed away. Chris feels the timing was uncanny.
It is a seven day a week effort running the “Pantry.” The Food Pantry is open for clients three days, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Every day Chris is doing administrative work, answering emails and phone calls, checking menus to see what's available to purchase, attending township and county commissioners’ meetings, and making sure their seven commercial
appliances are working properly. Kim handles all the financial work as Treasurer, including all the grant writing. She “hopefully gets the money in to keep it running.”
Twenty to twenty-five volunteers work one to three days per week at the Food Pantry and forty to fifty volunteers help with each food truck distribution. Without the efforts of all the volunteers, it wouldn't be possible to help those they do.
In addition to her work at the Food Pantry, Kim Ashcraft serves as Executive Director of Northern Lower MI-AHEC, a grant funded program whose goal is to recruit and retain healthcare workers in the northern twenty-one counties. Also, MidMichigan Community Health Services, and Mental Health.
The Roscommon County Food Pantry is located at 725 Loxley Street, Houghton Lake, and is open from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, and Friday 2- 5 p.m. Clients must be a resident of the county and must bring an ID for each household member.
BARBER CHANGES CHAIRS - Roscommon Barber Dave Smith has changed locations after 18 years. Smith, who purchased his original shop at 104 N. First Street from Larry Meade on July 6, 2006, has relocated to 435 N. Fifth Street in Roscommon, next to Rite Aid. The new hours are: Tuesday 8-12 and 2-6; Wednesday 2-6; Thursday 8-12 and 2-6; Friday 8-12 and 2-6; and Saturday 7-12. Smith is pictured with customer Tom Fouty. For more information contact Dave at 989-666-2179. Or just stop in for a coffee and say hello.
Girl Scout Troop 8845 on their first guided hike through Tahquamenon Falls. Back: ( l-r) Elizabeth Boright, Nova Chevalier, Isabella Laurence, Lailah Boright, Aubry Stoner, Harmony Soler, Jaelyn Stagg, and Becky Cameron. Front: (l-r) Alyson Vicars, Marley Poff, Maelynn Lentz, Violet Terpening, Izzy Rookus, Hazel Lewis, Bryana Fortier-Lewis, Melody Lentz, and Helena Clements.
MIO- The Mio Girl Scout Troop 8845 headed out on a 5-night camping trip in our picturesque Upper Peninsula of Michigan. For some scouts, this was their very first trip over the Mackinac Bridge and they were amazed by the view. The girl’s setup camp at Big Cedar Campground in Germfask and visited Garlyn Zoo, Tahquamenon
Falls, North Manistique Lake, Lake Superior, Oswald’s Bears, Sand Point Beach, Munising Falls, Pictured Rocks Trading Company, and the Erickson Center for the Arts at their new Pineview Performance Center. The scouts acquired interesting facts, new skills, great friends, and lifelong memories along the way.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY- The Roscommon County Flotilla of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering boater safety class on August 10 from 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. The classes are funded by a grant from the Roscommon County Community Foundation, will be held at the Flotilla’s meeting room at Gerrish Township Marina on Higgins Lake.
to attend. The FREE eight-hour class is for all recreational boaters ages 12 and up.
Those who are interested in learning about boater safety or need to obtain their boater safety certificate to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) or boat are invited
The class will include boating safety and safety equipment, emergency procedures, navigation rules, and aids and boating regulations. Course materials and a box lunch will be provided. There are a limited number of seats, so those interested should register early. For more information or to register, contact Division Commander James Munger at jgmcfps@bellsouth.net.
By Kalsa Parker Browning, Education DirectorMarguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve
Did you know getting outside and immersing yourself in nature offers numerous health benefits for both children and adults? Research has consistently shown that spending time in natural environments can significantly improve physical and mental well-being.
For children, outdoor activities in nature can build confidence, promote creativity, imagination, and teach responsibility. Kids who play outside tend to be happier, more attentive, and less anxious than those who spend more time indoors.
Adults also reap substantial health benefits from time spent in nature. Studies have shown that being in natural settings can reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure.
Forest bathing, a popular practice in Japan, has been found to lower cortisol levels and support the immune system.
The amount of time needed to see benefits is relatively small. One study found that spending at least 120 minutes per week in nature was associated with improved health and well-being.
This summer, why not take advantage of these health benefits by visiting the Gahagan Nature Preserve? With its diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscape, the preserve offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and boost your physical and mental health. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a family outing, or a chance to observe local wildlife, the Gahagan Nature Preserve provides an ideal setting to reap the many rewards of time spent in nature.
Plan your visit today! Find us online at www.gahagannature.org for a list of events and trail maps. The Preserve is located at 209 W Maplehurst, Roscommon, MI.
DISH OF THE DAY RECEIVES GRANT- Roscommon County United Way recently received a grant from Huntington Bank to help with the expense of running their Dish of the Day: A Mobile Soup Kitchen. The grant will be used to offset the roughly $80,000.00 per year food expense it costs to run the program. It is projected that 39,000 meals will be served this year alone. Pictured (l-r): Christine Aldrich, Branch Manager Houghton Lake, Thomas Pettit, RCUW Executive Director, Richard Doe, Branch Manager Roscommon, and Jennifer Rekasi, Huntington Bank Community Development Relationship Manager
CLASS OF 2004 - The Roscommon High School Class of 2004 held its 20th reunion at Jack's Place in Roscommon.
Pictured are (front) Carlie ('Chuck' Alchin) Rockwell, (second) Tyler Bradley, Milton Baltzer, Carrie Sloan and Jennie (Russell) Rankin, (third) Mikey Adams, Heather Pratt, (back-low) TJ Neveau, Justin Krause, Callie Letts, Rachel (Reghi) Soper, Jasmine Little, Samantha (LaBean) Thompson, Jessica Conner, Allyson Miller, Kelley (Moore) Mcbrayer, and (back) Nicole Grace, Dave Diemert, and Meghan (Carr) Noble.
Helping children experiencing loss
OGEMAW COUNTY- On Fri., Aug. 16, the YMCA at Camp Timbers will be offering a transformative day of healing and support. This event is for young children to find solace and strength amongst others by engaging in therapeutic and entertaining outdoor activities. Zip-lining, kayaking, art, music, and more are available to children who attend the free, one-day camp.
Camp Good Grief provides a nurturing environment to navigate children's emotions as they have
Good Grief Campers enjoy the nature trails at Camp Timbers. Zip-lining, kayaking, art, music, and more are available to children who attend Camp Good Grief.
experienced loss and personally connect with peers facing similar circumstances- ensuring they always have Hospice of Michigan as a support system to lean on.
Campers will have the opportunity to express their emotions, remember their loved ones, and establish lasting friendships with peers as they explore the camp's acres of groomed fields and natural woods.
Camp Timbers is located at 3269 Horseshoe Lake Road in West Branch. Space is limited and registration is open until August 1. To register, visit http://www.hom.org/ camp.
SUMMER READING AT THE LIBRARY- The Summer Reading program at the Ogemaw East Branch Library in Prescott is in full swing. This summer, the kids have been learning about bees and beekeeping, reptiles, fiber animals, and insects. Join them and their adventures at 2 p.m. on Thursdays!
IOSCO COUNTY- Don’t forget to celebrate National Lighthouse Day Sat., Aug. 3 from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Tawas Point Lighthouse. Although the official National Lighthouse Day is celebrated each August 7, the Sunrise Side Coalition of Lighthouses is celebrating early to give the public opportunities to visit lighthouses in the area outside the normal work week hours.
• FREE tours of newly restored lighthouse tower and fascinating museum. Learn history, lore, and area stories from friends, members, and visiting Lighthouse Keepers.
• Enjoy children’s activities including the Brick Paver Pathway Scavenger Hunt, coloring Sheets, and more.
• Browse items for sale at the Friends of the Lighthouse tent including collectible lighthouse notecards and matted prints from
local artists/photographers, unique Tawas Point Lighthouse architectural prints, and holiday ornaments.
• Visit the Lighthouse Gift Store for Michigan History Center items of interest.
• Challenge family and friends to cornhole - they supply the boards and bags – you get to have the fun!
• FREE ice cream from 1 – 3 p.m., while supplies last!
These fun and interactive opportunities are brought to our communities by volunteer efforts of Friends of Tawas Point Lighthouse and State Park, the Michigan History Center, and the MI DNR, as well as the unique Sunrise Side Coalition.
For more information, find them on Facebook: Friends of Tawas Point Lighthouse and State Park, visit them online at www. tawaslighthousefriends.com or email info@tawaslighthousefriends.com.
IOSCO COUNTY- The Iosco County Fair has been around for 78 years and has so much to offer. Rides, music, food trucks, livestock competitions, and more keep the crowds coming back each year for a week long family fun event.
~Photos by Sarah Novak and Darby Marshall
Left: Ben
of
and Jonah Trainer of Twining selling ice cream to support the junior market livestock kids.
-
The Crawford County Animal Shelter was the beneficiary of a fund raiser by a group of local youths, led by Annabelle Mygrants. Held at Northstar Autowash, the group raised more than $1,000. A car show was held at the same time, with a cruise starting at Northstar, through Camp Grayling, and wrapping up at the Grayling County Club. Pictured left scooping ice cream for Tip n' the Mitten were Mark McIsac and Stacey DeVries McIsaac. Pictured right (l-r) are Lillian McAteer, Annabelle, Sullivan Mygrants, Beni Porter and Alex Graziano.
Photos by Mark Constance
By Donna Thoma ROSCOMMON-
The longanticipated Commons (Former Chase Bank), is scheduled to open August 9. BC Pizza is set to be one of the first vendors and will be located at the left front of the building. A Coney Island hot dog establishment and a coffee shop will both locate center right, and those two businesses will share the drive through window, for
patrons in a hurry. There's talk of a deli, and arcade machines located at the rear left of the building, await the young and young at heart.
A future occupant, the “Irish Kilt Brew Pub,” is scheduled to open in spring 2025. (Yes, there are “feileadh mor” in Ireland!) Along with their craft brews, homemade root beer and homemade cream soda will also be on the menu. Will servers wear kilts? Only time will tell!
OGEMAW COUNTY- After being maintained for ORVs for almost 10 years, Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Trails are finally officially DNR designated ORV routes: The Ogemaw Hills ORV Route.
If you have wondered why the normally finely graded ORV trails from Frank Alley Park west to St. Helen and east to M-33, were untouched after a sketchy snow season, here is the answer.
Fish and Wildlife department.
In July 2023 the Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club was informed that the trails we had been maintaining for ORV use were not “DNR designated ORV trails”, and therefore not eligible for maintenance and reimbursement. After filing DNR paperwork and documentation, including maps, mileage, gps coordinates, culverts, bridges, creek crossings, and road commission permissions, the trail data went to nine DNR departments for approval in December. One section of Trail 6 that went through the Kirkland warbler nesting area had to be re-routed when the proposal hit the
The 77 miles of trail from St. Helen to M-33 are now eligible for signing, brushing and grading by the Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club. The Club does not maintain the rest of its snowmobile trails east of M33 for ORV use because it is on Federal Forest land. We DO maintain it for snowmobiling. Work to get the trails back into reasonable riding shape will begin VERY soon. Nothing had been done to the trail tread since July 2023 except snow grooming.
Our John Deere 7410 tractor that is used to grade the ORV trails is even sporting new tires, thanks to a grant from Yamaha’s Outdoor Access Initiative.
No word on when the trail designation will be updated on the DNR mapping system.
The Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club is located at the Frank Alley Park trailhead at the corner of Fairview and Rose City Roads north of West Branch.
ROSE CITY MARKET
RETURNS- Be sure to check out the Rose City Market Saturdays 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.! Pictured is Lauri Aimes of Simple Pleasures. Her products range from hand poured soy candles, lotion bars, glycerin soaps, and bird houses.
Pictured right, Bailey Illig of West Branch working the Black Bird Ice Cream cart. Black Bird is a mobile ice cream bar that carries Michigan made ice cream ~Photos by Sarah Novak
ROSCOMMON- Ralph Sperry was one of four founders of R.O.O.C., Inc and guided the program through the first years of operation. He was committed to educating the public about the needs and resources of people with disabilities for decades. His legacy of promoting the quality of life for the people served at ROOC is celebrated by the names of the recipients of the Ralph R. Sperry Memorial Award. This memorial award is given to an individual or group in recognition of their contributions to assisting people with disabilities to overcome barriers and more fully participate in their communities.
Crawford County for 29 years raising her family including three children. Chris and her husband currently live on a farm where they care for many animals including cows, goats, donkeys and peacocks.
This year Chris Sheldon is the
In 2021, Chris had been missing teaching and was looking for a way to give back to her community, so she contacted ROOC. What began as an experimental art class, has turned into a favorite weekly class for many of our clients to explore their artistic abilities. Not only has Chris shared her passion for art, but she has also introduced the organization to her knowledge and love for animals. Chris has many animals on her farm including goats. As baby
Clear Lake Bar
The Woodworkers Shoppe
Fairview Eagles/Comins Eagles
Comins Market
BP/Deli
Pines Golf Course Club House
Mr. Bill’s Market
The Family Bookshelf
Fairview Food Market
Fairview Hardware
Fairview Family Restaurant
Fairview Library
Beacon & Bridge
Frederic Inn
A Better Place Bakery
The Swamp
Two River Deli
7-Eleven
Blarney Castle-EZ-Mart
Forward Shell
The Medicine SHOPPE
Old Lumberyard Shoppe
Goodale’s Bakery
mi brew/Michigan Brew
Grayling Rest.
Artisan Village
Bears Den Pizzeria
Tip’n the Mitten & Flowers by Josie
Charlies Corner
Super 8
Family Fare
Crawford County Library
Walgreens
Grayling Eagles
Camp AuSable Natures Nest
Old Dam Party Store
Grayling Greenhouse
Camp Grayling Military Base
Munson Hospital
Crawford Co. Coun. Aging
Skip’s Sporting Good
LaFontaine Dealership
Gallaghers
Hidden Booknook Sellers
Corky’s Party Store
J & M County Fair Store
Forward’s (Shell)
Forward’s (Marathon)
Big Bob’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
Hale Flower Shop
Rogers Bear Store
Plainfield Twp Library
Alwards Market
The Bear Store
Country Corner Party Store
West Higgins Hardware
Higgins Lake Market & Storage
Silver Dollar
Evergreen Party Store
Bird and the bear
East Higgins Lake Hardware
Town & Country Supermarket
Sports Barn
EZ-Mart
Family Fare
Becky’s Best Sewing
Houghton Lake Library
Pop-A-Top
Houghton Lake Activity Center
Lyman’s Store
Wilds True Value Citgo
The Northern Center/Fox Den
Packy’s Pets
Nesters of Houghton Lake
Tourism Bureau
M.Mich. Med. Health Park
Houghton Lake Travel Park
Best Choice
Best Choice Two
H.L. Lakeside Resort
Angelo’s
Randy’s Rest.
Northshore Hardware
Country Peddler
The Book Worm
Parkview Acres Sunoco
Sunrise Cafe’
Lowell’s Corner Store
Highland Lumber Yard
Blue Jay Valley Greenhouse & Nursery
Shady Lane Footwear & Oakwood Furntire
Country Feed Supply
Country Corners Bulk Food
Echo Ridge Fabrics
Klimmek Sales & Service, across from WoodHaven
Serenity Day Lodge
Duke’s
Kronner Pharmacy
Kiss Me Coffee
Houghton Lake Chamber
Lake House Meats
Walmart
Fred’s of Roscommon
Ken’s Tire
Family Fare
Beechwood Rest
Smokum Hopps
Lake Breeze
Marathon
Indian Lake Trading Post
Jose Lake Store & Resort
South Branch General Store
Angry Oven
Shell Station
Horizon Senior Living
St. Helen Activity Center
Hen House Restaurant
Shell
Marathon
BP Station
B C Pizza
Fifth Street Market
Up North Voice Office
Up North Coffee Shop
The Butchers Wife
Bob’s Butcher Shop
Markey Tire
Roscommon Activity Center
The Brook Retirement Center
Uncommonly Goods
Matt’s Lake Street Grill
Mid Mich Medical
Hart Ford
Roscommon Library
Munson Waiting Room
Nester of Roscommon
Gillroys of Roscommon
Shell
Luzerne Hardware
Luzerne Express
Radisovich Farms
Paddle Inn
Tom’s Mug and Jug
Family Fare
Pioneer General Store
The Farm Kitchen/ Creamery
Oscoda Co Council on Aging
AuSable Valley Motel/Inn
AuSable River Restaurant
Family Fare
Bird and the Bear Lear Corp.
Rose City Greenhouse
Bergs Trading Post
Family Fare
Rose City Drugs
Mio Pizza
Oscoda County Courthouse
Oscoda Co. Chamber Com
AuSable River Tobacco
Ace Hardware
Ellie’s 12 Tables
Chamber of Commerce
Marathon Suds Laundry
Richfield Library
Richfield Township
Building
Charleton Heston Academy
Louie’s Fresh Market
RZR Razor Rentals
The Minnow Bucket Fire House
Green Ace Hardware
Gildner Harley Davidson
Team Hodges Auto
Fowlers Barber Shop
West Branch Collision
MidMichigan Medical
McClaren Medical Center
West Branch Chamber
West Branch Eyecare
Dean Arbour
Hart Buick
Mac’s Place
Steuernol/McLaren Fun. Home
Willards Equipment
Checker Flag
Rose City Ace Hardware
Rose City Cafe’
Fernelius Dealership
Rose Valley Winery
Terrys Gun Shop
Rose City Library
Faull Inn
REGION- The AuSable River Canoe Marathon is an iconic Northern Michigan event. Spectators gather from all over the world to support the elite paddlers and cheer on their friends in this 120-mile race traveling non-stop overnight from Grayling to Oscoda. Congratulations to your 2024 AuSable River Canoe Marathon Champions, Mike Davis and Guillaume Blais!
DAWN PATROL BREAKFAST- The Annual Dawn Patrol Breakfast was held on Sat., July 13 at the Oscoda County Dennis Kauffman Memorial Airport. Patrons walking or flying in were served a hot breakfast by donation including pancakes, sausage and eggs. Plane rides around Mio were also offered for a small fee.
~ Photos by Sarah Novak
Below:
ROSCOMMON- The Roscommon County Sheriff’s Department, with help from local public safety departments, put on a fun and educational training known as Cadet Camp. Seventeen local cadets attended the Youth Police Academy.
During camp, the cadets were able to tour Kirtland Community College Criminal Justice Programs, learn about water rescues, and work with
the Marine Patrol and Dive Team.
Cadets earned their first aid certificates, learned about firearm safety, and even got to use “drunk goggles” and peddle carts to simulate drunk driving.
The educational tools and learning experiences the kids were able to have will stick with them for a lifetime and who knows, maybe we will see some of them as future law enforcement!
When the world is hot and my skin is fried, scratching from the constant dry, let the clouds boil up – boil up high. And then shade the earth with the darkening sky and bring the secrets and the smell of rain. The heat and the blessed rain, again.
Our land is brown but blessed, stressed in the heat, the shiny heat of day. The slender green of desert rivers slides along, striving to continue, to feed its own along the banks – the banks where the dust rises. Rises, powdery clomp by clomp as we walk – walk the shady way.
Ours is the blessing of challenge, to live, to thrive in the heat. But bring us the clouds, the black bellied
clouds, the clouds that softly hold the heads of gods in their moistening grasp. Let them come, with their silver tops and their bellies black as night and cool as forgiveness.
The summer clouds, the clouds that define our culture, our art, our summer, our hot, heavy summer. Let the magic come and stay, stay for a while, at least for a while, and wet us down, all the way down. Fill our pores, smooth our skin, wash us free of dirt and sin, with the rain, the cleansing blessed rain.
A rain, a storm, a suddenness of life and blast and sweet charity designed to keep us living here, here in the rain, here in the sun, and keep us praying, here in the rain, and looking toward the west for more, always to the west, always looking for more.
CIVIL AIR PATROL CADETS
TOUR ARMY AIRFIELD- In late May, The Civil Air Patrol Cadets toured the Army Airfield and Fire Department in Grayling. During the tour, the cadets were able to check out the rigs and equipment, take a ride on the fire truck and learned to use the fire hose.
~ Photo courtesy of C/Capt. Joshua Warren
Ernest Herbert Hayhow, passed May 16
Carrie S. Morey, 68, Rose City, passed Jun 19
Marvin L. Neubecker, 75, West Branch, passed Jun 19
Sherry C. Poyle, 81, Rose City, passed Jun 20
Zachary J. Beck, 16, West Branch, passed Jun 20
Sandra "Sandy" A. Oesterling, 80, East Tawas, passed Jun 18
Eugene "Gene" LaVack, 96, Oscoda, passed Jun 19
Ervin J. Guinn, 88, AuGres, passed Jun 19
Clifton VanBuren, 69, Omer, passed Jun 16
Gerald D. Washburn, 87, Prudenville, passed Jun 18
Elaine R. Campbell, 85, Grayling, passed Jun 20
Karen A. Sabbagh, 71, Macomb formerly Frederic, passed Jun 20
E. "Paul" Musselman, 87, Grayling, passed Jun 21
Mark W. Titchenell, 58, Roscommon, passed Jun 20
Matthew W. Boyd, 62, St. Helen, passed Jun 21
Lori E. Merollis, 59, Houghton Lake, passed Jun 20
Charles R. McDonald, 84, Alger, passed Jun 21
Barbara (Johns) Prince, 92, Prescott, passed Jun 22
Beverly "Bev" Dining, 61, West Branch, passed Jun 21
Vickie (Freehling) Sheeder, 71, AuGres, passed Jun 20
Velda J. Dewald, 92, AuGres, passed Jun 23
Bryan R. Wieczorek, 63, Mio, passed Jun 20
Ada M. Stagg, 96, Mio, passed Jun 21
Lance D. Koschtial, 82, Roscommon, passed Jun 24
Phyllis J. Ward, 89, Roscommon, passed Jun 26
Bruce A. Withun, 60, Houghton Lake, passed Jun 21
Anne (Powell) Schiavone, 94, Prudenville, passed Jun 23
Robert " Bob" Haines, 79, West Branch, passed Jun 22
Patrick J. Haggerty, 82, Hale, passed Jun 24
Derrick Turner, 58, East Tawas formerly Hopkinsville, KY, passed Jun 24
Ronald M. Janish, 83, Twining, passed Jun 26
Patricia M. Shannon, 83, Standish, passed Jun 24
Maude M. Siegrist, 80, Standish, passed Jun 24
Donna Reminder (Twining), 91, West Branch, passed Jun 26
Andres "Andy" Garza, 80, Mio, passed Jun 27
Donald J. Mitrzyk, 85, West Branch, passed Jun 25
Nancy E. McBride, 82, Alger, passed Jun 27
Ronald M. Janish, 83, Twining, passed Jun 26
Robert L. Schlagel, 94, Turner, passed Jun 28
Paul L. Heric, 67, Sterling, passed Jul 1
Marie E. McIntyre, 91, Mio, passed Jun 28
Dianne M. Hill, 74, Mio, passed Jun 25
Thomas J. Miller, 80, Grayling, passed Jun 27
Ronald Ball, 82, Hale, passed Jun 28
Patricia (Reames) Brown, 88, Oscoda, passed Jun 30
HIGGINS LAKE - Paul Bertrand of Higgins Lake donated $3,000 in memory of his late brother, Charles Bertrand to the Lyon Branch Library. Paul intends to continue to “do good things” in his honor. Pictured back: (l-r) Paul Bertrand, and Colleen
Dyke, Library Director. Front: (l-r) Cora Felix, Circulation Clerk and Casey Stone, Events Coordinator. Missing: Julie “Sunshine” Saintine, Youth Library Services. Note: Photo edited for privacy.
Jack I. Whitehouse, 90, Tawas City, passed Jul 2
Sabina E. Bloom, 82, Omer, passed Jul 2
Susan L. (Bennetts) Ledbetter, 81, Houghton Lake, passed Jun 30
Jacqueline (Flagg) Durant, 69, Hale, passed Jul 4
Anna Lendrum, 95, Prescott, passed Jul 4
Dianne Hill, 74, Mio, passed Jun 25
Brenda L. Carr, 73, Grayling, passed Jun 29
Robert H. Parker, 78, Twining, passed Jul 3
Gail L. Good, 87, Prescott, passed Jul 8
Branch, passed Jul 11
Jerry L. White, 88, Prescott, passed Jul 13
Kevin V. Charbonneau II, 40, Oscoda, passed Jul 9
Patricia A. Godinez, 66, Tawas City, passed Jul 10
Frank M. Leiva, 97, Hale, passed Jul 11
Douglas J. Lange, 88, Hale, passed Jul 11
Richard D. Fern, 71, Tawas City, passed Jul 14
Scottie C. Asman, 28, Luzerne, passed Jul 12
Lisa A. Kitchen, 54, Grayling, passed Jul 14
Dale R. Crossley, 66, West Branch, passed Jul 14
Ann J. Trudeau, 89, West Branch, passed Jul 16
James R. Hughes, Jr., 83, Lupton, passed Jul 16
Yvonne J. Arnold, 88, Prudenville, passed Jul 14
Duane "DueDawg" Draper, 80, Houghton Lake, passed Jul 15
Kevin L. Barnes, 57, Roscommon, passed Jul 15
Dori J. Keene, 63, Roscommon, passed Jul 16
William "Bill" R. Webb, 97, Houghton Lake, passed Jul 19
Amanda W. Braford, 41, Oscoda formerly of Greenville, TN, passed Jul 13
Gerald J. Magalski, 86, Oscoda formerly Joplin, MO, passed Jul 16
Nira G. Gorski, 73, West Branch, passed Jul 17
Robert "Bob" A. Brewer, 84, passed Jul 8
Brandon M. Christensen Jr., 18, Roscommon, passed Jul 9
Sharon L. Auman-Ripple, 74, Prudenville, passed Jul 9
Martha A. Norris, 76, Prudenville, passed Jul 9
Vernon "Vern" G. Henry, 72, West Branch, passed Jul 11
Robert "Bob" W. Skodack, 73, Oscoda, passed Jul 5
Aaron M. Nott, 27, Standish, passed Jul 9
Bruce H. Roberts, 74, West
Jack Stuart Kann, 76, Flushing formerly Mio, passed Jul 17
Walter "Burt" Greer, 78, Mio, passed Jul 15
Helen J. Dedafoe, 85, Grayling, passed Jul 16
Judith A. Haines, 74, West Branch, passed Jul 19
Sherry M. Hasty, 79, Hale, passed Jul 19
William "Bill" Webb, 97, Houghton Lake, passed Jul 19
Robert "Bob" VanSickle, 80, Houghton Lake, passed Jul 20
9383 N CUT RD.
"A Midsummer Night's Dream," a play by William Shakespeare, is a work selected by scholars as being culturally important! My columns, of course, are not that important, focusing on humor and, on occasion, thoughtful musing. The main idea of the play is betrayal and disloyalty. Shakespeare did sprinkle quite a bit of humor into his writing. Human emotions often lead to humorous results. "Cyrano de Bergerac" is another comedy based on love and feelings of inadequacy. I don't want to get too "nosy" on this subject. Still, in both of these plays, human interactive situations develop. The outcomes can be dark, humorous, or, in some cases, both.
Life, at times, throws at us a myriad of situations, problems, opportunities, and more. We all have the chance to analyze the many options we can take to deal with a specific situation. The same situation thrown at different people may result in dissimilar tactics that people will use to deal with the same issues. Why do people use different solutions to the same situational problems? The answer is just as complex. Everyone looks at a situation through their own personal lens! Life experiences, upbringing, personal moral compass, religious or non-religious
By Joel Vernier
background, and how their individual actions have dealt with similar situations in the past!
In Today's world, events are happening fast, and the news cycles report them faster than ever before!
Some of these events affect us personally! Some of these events may have a negative effect on our lives! We cannot always control what happens to us, but we often can have control over our "Attitude" and the actions we take to deal with situations. Most people do not like inflation, as it may have a negative effect on their lives. Some people move ahead by cutting back on areas that they deem less important and keeping the products that are important to them. Others may go into the community and find parttime work to help compensate. Some feel that there is nothing that they can do, and for some, based on age, disability, and health, there may not be anything that they can do.
The key to life's situations is to first identify the problem and what
Hello August! The weather seems to be a daily surprise lately. Just remember if it is hot and humid to do your outside activities in the early morning or evening hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day and strong sunshine. The Senior Center is open Mon- Fri. If you need a place to cool down, come on in and relax here for a while. You can read a book, use the computers, or just sit on the couch and stay cool. We do have internet, so you can bring in your phone or tablet too.
This month is our chance to VOTE in the Primary Election on August 6. This is when we get to vote for county candidates and millages, so please VOTE!
The Together We Can Food Pantry will be happening on Thurs., Aug. 22 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. They ask that you bring ID to show you live in the county and a banana box if you have one. If they run out of food, they will be gone before 2:30. This food drop happens at the fairgrounds. I do not have a date for the Golden Grocery Giveaway Program (senior cheese box).
There are some changes going on with that program and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan was not able to give me a date yet, or exactly
By Suzanne Barker, Director of the Oscoda County Council on Aging.
where the program will be taking place from now on. They did say that a robo call would be going out to the clients once they have all things in place for the program to continue. It is my understanding at this point that the boxes that are normally dropped off here at the Senior Center will continue to happen. That means we should still be able to deliver them to the home bound clients we have regularly been doing that for. I have asked them to keep us informed also, so hopefully we will have answers soon.
The Council’s Board meeting will be on Mon., Aug. 12, at 1 p.m. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
Have an amazing month and keep smiling! Pass on the smiles to brighten someone else’s day too. Please be kind, it is such an easy thing to do! The world sure needs more smiles, positivity, and kindness. A small kind gesture goes along way. We are not alone; everyone is struggling with something.
CRAWFORD COUNTY- Join exciting Dungeons and Dragons sessions at the Devereaux Memorial Library, Mondays at 12:30 p.m.
Step into a magical narrative as you embark on a live story walk through the enchanting paths of the Frederic Community Library on Mon., Aug. 5 at 2: p.m.
Immerse yourself in the adventure of a live story walk at the Devereaux Memorial Library on Mon., Aug. 12 at 2 p.m., where each step unveils a new chapter of excitement and wonder.
Join us for magical storytime adventures every Wed. at 11 a.m. Dive into enchanting tales, meet captivating characters, and let your imagination soar in a welcoming circle for all story-lovers, young and old.
Embark on a journey of creativity and storytelling at the Craft and Story program, taking place on Aug. 13, and 27 at 11:30 a.m. at the Devereaux Memorial Library. After the storytelling session, unleash your artistic flair through a hands-on crafting activity inspired by the tales we've discovered. Whether you're crafting mythical creatures, enchanted forests, or heroic quests, each session promises a unique blend of storytelling and creative expression. Join us for an enchanting experience that sparks the imagination and brings stories to life through art.
Radiant Child Music and Movement is offered weekly at both library branches. Join us Tuesday’s at 4 p.m. at the Devereaux Memorial Library and Wednesday’s at 4 p.m. at the Frederic Community Library. Those attending can enjoy a relaxing session which includes music,
stretching, stories, movement and mediation. It’s great for all ages.
Connect with us at the Devereaux Memorial Library on Aug. 7 at 11 a.m. for an exhilarating musical journey with the "Adventure in Music" program, led by renowned musicians Seth Bernard and Aaron Allen.
Be sure to attend on Aug. 8 and 22 at 10 a.m. for a movie, some popcorn and a craft.
Get your controllers ready for a Super Smash Bros. Tournament happening at the Devereaux Memorial Library during the month of August. Stay tuned for more information on dates and times. This tournament is open to all ages, but registration is required.
Our regular running programs include Genealogy (Monday’s 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.), Let’s Get Fit (Tuesday’s and Thursday at 10 a.m.), Sit-N-Knit (Thursday’s at 10 a.m.) and Book Club (Wednesday, June 26 at 1 p.m.).
Stay updated with the Crawford County Library through our social media channels for the latest updates, events, and book recommendations. Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for exclusive content, behindthe-scenes glimpses, and sneak peeks.
Devereaux Memorial Library offers conference rooms that can be utilized. For further details and availability please call 989- 3489214.
Devereaux Memorial Library is located at 201 Plum St. Grayling. The Frederic Community Library is located at 6470 Manistee St, Frederic. Call 989-348-9214 or email us at ccl@crawfordcolibrary.org for more information.
OSCODA COUNTY- Do you love helping people and caring for others? Lydias’s Gate in Mio is seeking overnight house sitters. Shifts run from 8 p.m. – 8 a.m. and sitters are paid a stipend. This is a great opportunity for college students looking for time to study and make extra cash or anyone who would
enjoy the company.
Lydia’s Gate is a homeless and domestic violence shelter for women and children and is funded by the churches in Oscoda County. To find out more about them or this position, please call 989-8265588 or email director@ lydiasgatemio.org.
AMERICAN LEGION POST 422 VISIT NURSING HOMESEach veteran resident of the nursing homes in Iosco County received gifts and cards made by students from Hale Public Schools.
(Above) Front: (l-r) Tawas Village Veterans Sam Arion and Jasper Lay. Back (l-r) Sandra Denstedt Auxiliary President, Charles Carroll Post Adjutant, Auxiliary Chaplain and
secretary Marlene Noll Polishak and Activities Director Becky Stitzer. (Below) Front: (l-r) Lakeview Manor residents Gerald Magalski, William Mott, Tomas Segar, and Greg Stewert. Back: (l-r) Auxiliary
President Sandra Denstedt, Post Adjutant Chaled Carroll, Lakeview Activities Director Misty Harman and Auxiliary Chaplain and Secretary Marlene Noll Polishak.
OSCODA COUNTY ARTIST OF THE MONTHMariah Thornton of Flowerlly featuring her photography piece titled "Cloudy Day".
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the impact on you personally will be. If it does not affect you directly, file it in a mental box named interesting. If it will affect you directly, Focus on solutions, not the problem. Be pleasantly persistent when working through the solution list you have developed for yourself. If you are not having success, reach out to the many resources available in your community. You are not alone! There are too many resources to list here: 211, Michigan Works, Legislative representatives, local religious leaders, and successful people you know!
At the end of every column, I write: "Every day is a gift!" I have been blessed with surviving a
variety of life's challenges. In 2008, I was diagnosed with Leukemia, and with God's help, I moved into remission. 2010, my company was bought out, and the entire sales team was eliminated. My personal list of challenges goes on. Some of you may also have a list. For some, your list may not be written until later in life. Remember, negative actions deliver negative results! Positive actions deliver positive results. In-action is an action.
Why did the science teacher tell her students not to trust an atom? Because they make up everything!
Why is the obtuse triangle always so frustrated? Because it’s never right.
Knock, knock!
Who's there?
Dora Belle.
Dora Belle who?
Dora Belle is broken, that's why I'm knocking.
What book was the chemistry teacher reading?
A book on helium—she couldn’t put it down.
What can you catch but not throw? A cold!
As an icebreaker during student orientation, a professor asked, “If you could have a conversation with someone, living or dead, who would it be?”
One of the students thought it over, then answered, “The living one.”
Noticing a paper was clearly plagiarized, I called the student into my office. Pointing to my computer screen, I said, “I found your entire paper online. Do you have anything you want to say about that?”
She pursed her lips and said, angrily, “Well, I paid my sister to write it, but I didn’t think she’d plagiarize!”
REGION- The fourth of July is always an exciting time across our Northern Michigan Counties. Family and friends gather for parades, cookouts, and the celebration of our freedom. Check out our photos from the local communities!
~ Photos by Sarah Novak, Donna Thoma, and courtesy photos.
