Up North Voice - December 2022

IN THIS ISSUE:

Hale students of month B-4

Deer hunters B-6

Santa’s Workshop B-7

Eagle Voice C-1

New biz, Mires C-3

Hero’s Welcome C-6

Holiday message C-7

Wildlife artist brings awareness to the AuSable

By Nicole Mygrants

My tires made crunching sounds on the loose stone as I slowly rolled down the driveway to interview local artist and business Owner Kim Diment. Wild turkeys and a pair of Whitetailed Deer greet me at her home studio, located on the banks of the AuSable River.

The at-ease animal encounters foreshadow the visit ahead.

I learned how Diment came to be an accomplished artist that calls Grayling and the AuSable home. I was able to get a glimpse of her techniques and pieces, and a heartwarming experience of witnessing the spirit of a woman who lives a life of purpose, and tries to create a more beautiful, sustainable world while she does it.

Original works created by Diment can sell for well over $5,000, yet her window filled high-ceiling attic studio is home to mostly reclaimed windows she herself saved and collected. Diment’s studio shares a barn with her husband’s wood shop downstairs and several sometimesfriendly cats.

Grady, a stately figure of furry

opinion, graces me with his presence. I can now say that I met the cat that Diment drew and released rights to the AuSable Valley Animal Shelter to, for use in their fundraising activities. The same high-end works of art can be found in her Grayling gallery, Riverworks Studios, as well as Rowe Gallery in Sedona.

An animal skull, multiple plants, and stacks of reference books are watched over by a wooden owl hanging over more bookshelves.

Pencils and paints are gathered in the corner around a simple desk and easels. Having traveled around the world with a concentration on Africa, Diment could easily hang her canvas up in many places. But she said her heart always brings her home to animals and the AuSable River.

“I always knew that animals were a big part of me. I just can’t imagine the world without animals and those interactions and what we can learn from them and I’m afraid it really would be horrible to start losing so many because we were careless. And as animals ourselves, not watching what we are doing.” Diment said.

She discovered her love of the outdoors early.

When she was a child, her mom, Beverly, would bring out art supplies in inclement weather or to pass time together. Her dad, Bob, taught junior high woodshop in Oscoda. He would cut out animal models she would draw on or paint.

Kim would find more support when Peg Ridgeway, her secondgrade teacher, was astounded by her knowledge, and soon had her doing bulletin boards. Diment recalls she was a tough teacher who challenged her and was instrumental in fostering her love of animals and birds.

“Teachers can have a heck of a lot to do with students’ success when they are allowed to teach and to do extra stuff” Diment shared, as she smiled, reflecting on her current friendship and support from Ridgeway.

If it involved bringing animals home, raising a duck to be released

Christmas feast and light parade

WEST BRANCH- The first annual Ogemaw County Christmas Feast will be Sun. Dec. 18 from 3-7 p.m. Stop in for some good home cooking that is open to the community. They are also accepting donations for those in need. Wish list items include grocery or fuel gift cards, unwrapped toys, items for food baskets, or money donations are also accepted. Contact Kimberly Wangler at 989-213-8663 by Dec. 15 for more information on how you can help, or if you know a family in need this holiday season.

Preceding the Christmas feast is a Christmas light parade featuring this year’s theme, a “Gingerbread Christmas” brought to you by the ▪ See CHRISTMAS on page 4 B

back to the wild, stray cats, anything creepy crawly; Diment was involved. Self-proclaimed, “a different kind of kid” who later in high school “felt awkward and somewhat tom boyish,” Kim now embraces the nickname her brother gave her in her teens, “nature girl.”

“It’s a title I’ve come to love...” she trails off. “I couldn’t imagine doing anything other than capturing the animals, their forms are beautiful and personable - even the ugly ones.”

Much of Diment’s work is animal influenced or directed, but not all of it. Diment’s Great- great grandmother was a Chippewa India, and some of Kim’s work does have a Native American element to it. When asked about this series, Kim shared a very different approach to painting than her typical illustrative animal style.

High Schoolers Hailey Watson (left) and Olivia Quick (right) pose with Ed and Judy Roberts who have been playing Mr. and Mrs. Clause for years. The four are a few of many volunteers who dedicated their Sunday to putting smiles on all the kids’ faces during Santa’s Workshop at the Playhouse in Houghton Lake. » Story and photos on page 7 B!

Photo by Alicia Noragon

Kim Diment in her element, nature.

Mule Deer for the Wild Turkey Foundation

Out & About - December 2022

CRAWFORD COUNTY: Grayling, Frederic, Lovells December

1- Medicine Shoppe Bingo – at 3 p.m. play Bingo to win Medicine Shoppe coupons!

3- Hanging of the Greens – 9 a.m. Join in on decorating our Senior Center, 308 Lawndale Street

6- Friends of a Feather Quilting & Sewing Group – 9 a.m-4 p.m.; Lunch served at the COA or bring your own.

13- Karaoke Christmas – 12 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center Karaoke and Ugly Sweater Christmas Party

15- Christmas Luncheon –11:30 a.m-1 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Crawford County Extras

Tues- Bible Study – 10 a.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues- Euchre – 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, at 7 p.m., Gallagher's Sports Bar & Grill, 3997 E. M-72

Thurs- Craft & Chat – 10 a.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Thurs- Penny Bingo – 1-3 p.m. Crawford County Commission on

Aging & Senior Center

Fri- Pantry Bingo – 1-3 p.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Fri. - Trivia, at 7:30 p.m., MI Brew

Tues- Diamond Dancers – 6p.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- Pickleball 9-11a.m; Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers

– 10-11a.m, Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Tues & Thurs – Pickleball, 10a.m-12p.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

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

Fri. - Trivia, at 7:30 p.m., MI Brew

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

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

2nd Tues - Grayling American Legion Aux Post meeting, at 5:30 p.m., Grayling

2nd Thurs- Veterans Coffee hour, at 10 a.m., Grayling American Legion

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

2nd Sat. - Euchre Tournament, at 6 p.m., American Legion

ROSCOMMON COUNTY: Roscommon, Higgins Lake, Prudenville, Houghton Lake, St. Helen December

2-3- Christmas in the Village, Downtown Roscommon

2-4- Santa Train- Houghton Lake

4- Pictures with Santa, Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce

Roscommon County Extras: Mon - Reserve tech Help, Houghton Lake Public Library

Thurs - Sit & Get Fit, at 2:30 p.m., Roscommon Area District Library

Fri - Story-time Fridays, at 10:30

a.m., Houghton Lake Public Library

2nd Sun. – VFW Country Breakfast, at 8 a.m., VFW Post 4159 2nd Thurs. – B2B Breakfast, at 8 a.m., Village of Roscommon 3rd Wed. – Michigan Fireman’s Memorial Festival Meet, at 6:30 p.m.

IOSCO COUNTY: Hale, Whittemore, Tawas December

Iosco County Extras: Mon - BINGO, at 6:30 p.m., Whittemore Chamber of Commerce 3rd Tues. - Whittemore Chamber Meeting, at 7 p.m., 405 E. Sherman Street

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

OGEMAW COUNTY: West Branch, Rose City, Lupton December

2- Stuff a Blue Goose, 10-5 p.m., Northland Area Federal Credit Union. 2170 M-76, West Branch, MI

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 3 B

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

48661

3- Christmas Bazaar. 9-3 p.m., Ogemaw Heights High School, 960 M-33 West Branch, MI 48661

3- Art and Wine Walk, 5-9 p.m., Downtown West Branch

10- West Branch Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, 7-9 p.m., Tree Lighting to follow parade at "The Gathering Place"

18- First Annual Ogemaw County Christmas Feast, 3-7 p.m. at the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds Ogemaw County Extras: Tues. – Kiwanis Club of West Branch, at Noon, Buccilli’s of West Branch

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

Palmer announces dean’s list

REGION – Palmer College of Chiropractic’s main campus in Davenport, Iowa has honored two area students.

Clayton Clemens of West Branch, and Michalla Dunja-Compo of Saint Helen have been named to the summer 2022 trimester dean's list at the college.

8 p.m., 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First Street

Weds. – Culvers Cruise In, at 68 p.m., Culvers West Branch

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

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

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

1st & 3rd Tues. – Rose City Council meeting, at 6 p.m., Council Chambers, 310 N. Willia.ms Street

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

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

2nd Wed. - Business Professional Women’s group, at 5 p.m.

2nd Sat. - Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile club meeting, at 9 a.m., Club House

REGION:

December

1- ACC TALKS: TOPIC: WoodsN-Water News Meet the maker!

Guest Speaker: Randy Jorgenson- 67 p.m., Oscoda Campus for more info call, 989-739-1445

3- Oscoda Northern Lights Parade- sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce

3- The Great Sunrise Side Paper Airplane Contest -9 a.m.-12 p.m. Kalitta Aircraft Maintenance Facility

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 4 B

Continued from page 1 B

West Branch Chamber of Commerce. Line up begins at 6 p.m. Sat. Dec. 10 by the Smiley Face Water Tower with a parade start time of 7 p.m. The parade will proceed through Houghton Ave. and Eighth St. The City of West Branch annual tree

Hale's Students of the Month

Back Row: Sam Patten (10th grade), Keigan Egresics (7th grade), Cooper Irwin (6th grade), Logan Wade (5th grade), Harper Reilly (3rd grade)

Front Row: Adrian Walton (4th

Out & About

Continued from page 3 B

on the grounds of the OscodaWurtsmith Community Airport

6- Northeast Michigan Human Resource Leader Cooperative, 8 -9: 30a.m, Guest Speaker: John Gustincic from CMU's Entrepreneurship program

10- Lunch with Santa, 12-2 p.m., Mio Moose Lodge, M-72. Free for

grade), Madison Reilly (2nd grade), Sabrina Franks (Kindergarten), Mason Reilly (2nd grade), Emerick Culton (Kindergarten), Liberty Hainley (1st grade), Anakin Durbin (1st grade)

Children 10 and under, Lunch, a Visit with Santa, a bag of candy and toy provided

Every Thursday-Bingo- 6 p.m., Luzerne American Legion

1st Friday- 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

Grants to benefit local youth

NORTHEAST MICHIGAN

- The North Central Michigan Community Foundation (NCMCF) Youth Advisory Councils (YACs) are accepting grant applications for the 2023 grant cycle. The deadline for YAC grant applications is Dec. 15.

All nonprofit and government agencies serving the Crawford, Ogemaw and Oscoda County are invited to apply for projects and programs benefiting area youth ages 18 and under.

Applications are available at ncmcf.org. Info: 877-354-6881.

lighting will take place after the parade

In case anyone misses the parade, the participants can email their picture entry to heather@wbacc.com. The public can cast their vote through the chamber’s Facebook page from Dec. 13 to Dec. 15 at noon.

NEW BUSINESS - Compass Nutrition opened Oct 22. The family-owned business specializes sin protein shakes, energizing teas, wellness profiles, and more. They are located at 318 West

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

Houghton Avenue in West Branch, and open M-F from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Owners Katie Larrison and husband Jeremy Larrison are pictured with their daughters, Rayne and Mira.

Weekly 'Meat Bingo' being held at Roscommon VFW

ROSCOMMON – "Don't say Bingo”, “Say Meat". VFW Post 4159, Roscommon sponsoring Meat Bingo. The Third Saturday of the month through May from 2-5 p.m.

ELECTION DAY – Voters from across the region cast their ballots for various offices, including state and federal representatives.

Election in full swing at Higgins Lake Township. Photo by Donna Thoma

Above: Newly Appointed Circuit Court Judge Mary Beebe, with husband Dennis celebrate the poll Nov. 8. Photo by Donna Thoma

Below: Roscommon elementary students sported their “I voted” stickers outside Denton Township after their parents cast their vote.

Photo by Alicia Noragon

Ray and Pat Tackett exercise their right to vote in Oscoda County.

Photo By Warren Stutesman

SUCCESSFUL HUNTERS –Area hunters celebrated opening day of the firearm deer season on Nov. 15. The weather was exceptionally cold and a fresh coating of snow had the deer moving for food and to stay warm.

Bob Gulick shot this 8-point in Roscommon.

Chris Waldie from Roscommon and his 8-point. Photo by Alicia Noragon

Clear Lake Bar buck pole!

Jerry Shaw and Brian Hofmeister with Jerry's 8 point / 157lbs and Brian's 8 point / 140 lbs.

Quentin (left) and Darryl Johnson (right) of Hale had a successful opening day 2022

Brian Hall of Iosco County tagged out this year with this 9-point buck November 18, 2022 Fourteen-year-old Dane from Grand Rapids wanted to try his hand at bow hunting while visiting his Uncle Mike Frasier, of Lewiston. Dane got his first deer! Congratulations Dane!

Renae Hall and Husband Brian Hall hunting in Hale and Iosco County. Both shot a10 point within an hour of each other on opening day!

Josh King shot this buck in the Sand Lake area while hunting with his father, Harvey.

Jennifer Austin shot her first buck in St. Helen during the archery season.

Baileigh Dickenson from Grayling nabs a 6-point just after dark.

Terry Moak from Columbus at the Buck Pole in Roscommon.

Photo by Alicia Noragon

Ron Hornbaker shot his 185-pound buck near Boyne. His buddies, Alex Burill, Ryon Burill, and James Marshall, helped him drag it out of the woods

Jim Graham of St. Helen shot this 10-point buck in the St. Helen area.

Robyn Daniels blessed with her second deer this season, thankful to feed her family.

Heather Brindley of Mt. Morris and her proud dad, Michael Brindley, of West Branch. This is Heather's first buck with a bow.

Josh Lewis visiting from Novi and entered this big boy into the Roscommon Buck Pole!

Photo by Alicia Noragon

St. Helen’s Dylan Tysons first deer ever and it was a 9 point!

Santa’s Workshop all about kids

By Alicia Noragon

HOUGHTON LAKE - Santa’s Workshop took place at the Playhouse in Houghton Lake Nov. 20. This year’s co-hosts were Candy McLean and Janet Roelofs.

According to Candy, the last few years have been more about businesses and promotions. This year, they wanted to make it about the kids. Santa’s workshop was packed all day with food, cookie decorating, arts and crafts for the kids, face painting, and of course, meeting with the big guy himself. Santa and Ms. Clause were taking a break from the North Pole to hear the wishes of all the kids in the community.

Skylar Butson (6), sits with Mrs. Clause (Judy Roberts) and Lilly Kietzman (7) sits with Santa (Ed Roberts) after telling their Christmas wishes.

Danielle Csapo (left) and Candy McLean (right) take a break from running the Santa’s Workshop event.

Team Drew wins hoops title

HOUGHTON LAKE Team Drew defended its regular Season Championship with a sweep through the Tournament of Fall #1 Men's Basketball League at The Northern Center in Houghton Lake.

With a first-round defeat of Team Zack by the score of 56-28, followed by a 57-44 victory over Team Charles in the finals.

In the other bracket, Team Charles advanced with a win over The Northern Center/ Coldwell Schmidt

Realty by a score of 57-44.

The League began its new season Nov 13 and is scheduled to be completed by Dec 18. The league needs teams and free agents to fulfill the schedule.

They are also seeking referees as well as a sponsor to help offset referee costs for teams. Visit coachvick.net for more information or call 989-202-4888.

Winter leagues begin in January.

Pictured are Team Drew members (l-r) Matt Webster, John Steckler, Drew Lindsay, Jared LaLonde, Kevin Marshall, Nathan Wilder, Nick Mainville, Anthony Burtis. And (front, center) John Miller IV

What does Christmas mean to me?

By Kristy Mills

One of the easiest things a person can ask me is "what does Christmas mean to me?"

This is truly in my opinion one of the best times of the year. As a single mom, I truly enjoy the time I get to spend with my two kids at all the amazing events around our beautiful town of Roscommon.

Making memories is one of the most important things to do as a family. However, I get to take those memories even a step further. I am the local pastor at Bacon Assembly of God. I am so lucky, I get to celebrate not just with my kids, but kids of all ages from our community.

Christmas is truly a time of reflecting the true meaning, which is the Birth of our savior Jesus

Christ. I have the amazing privilege of bringing this story to life to our elementary aged kids every year in our 11 a.m. services throughout December.

As always, participating in a beautiful Christmas Eve candlelight service alongside our senior pastor is a rewarding experience. We get to share the story of Jesus and bring blessing to our community in the process. If you would like to join us, we would love to welcome you at 5 pm.

Now is a time to slow down, enjoy the little moments, make memories, and reflect on the reason for the season. Merry CHRISTmas from me, Pastor Kristy, and all of us at Beacon Assembly of God in Roscommon.

CHAMBER WINNERS –

The Higgins Lake-Roscommon Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual chamber meeting. The event highlighted the effort of local business to promote the community at large. Winners include: Excellence in Business 1-10 employees: Roscommon Insurance

Pictured

(l-r)

Agency; Excellence in Business 11+: Don Nester Chevrolet; Emerging Business: The Barn at Higgins Lake; Community Outreach: Higgins Lake Foundation; Partnership Award: Blarney Stone Broadcasting; Winner of TASTE a food competition: Get on Board n' Graze.

Pastor Kristy Mills

Pictured (l-r) are Skip Butler, Lisa Butler (Michael Walker (in back), Matt Jernigan, Beth Barber (Chamber president), Ann Rose and Vicki Springstead

below

are Sue Mires, Pam Beach, Anthony Gnesotto,, Michelle Jernigan and Matt Jernigan

Snow before breakfast

By Slim Randles

Somehow the snow is a little like Christmas. We can expect it. We can listen to the television weather and expect it. But still, when it comes it’s like a gift - a wonderful, unwrapped gift - because it is the wrapping.

Doc found it when he turned on the porch light before dawn and the sheer whiteness of it came to him, and he smiled and let the cup of coffee warm his hands and the coffee itself warm his insides.

Snow – whether it’s an inch or three feet – tucks us in, he thought. It’s an act of love, covering each of us equally, as a mother would do. There should be an ordinance, he thought, smiling, that no one should

be required to get out and drive in it, shovel it, curse it, until at least the initial magic has passed. Soon enough, we realize, it will be plowed into muddy strips on our streets and slushed into the gutters and our shoes will complain and we’ll have to be careful not to track it in the house. That comes later. Road closures … they come later, too. When these heavy gray heavens pull back to reveal the moon and the sun, the cold will come, along with the threat of ruptured pipes.

holiness of early morning, Doc had the best of the snow. The gentle, eternally silent blessing of winter.

through breakfast, he thought. At least through breakfast.

Cowboy Guide to Writing by Slim Randles. Now available as a Kindle book on Amazon.com.

Home Country

A rancher’s wish

By Kirk Rogers

It's a beautiful early October day in Oscoda County.

Winds are calm. The sky is an uninterrupted blue. The maples splash the tree line with gradients of scarlet, yellow, and orange, while the sumacs adorn the tree's ankles with fiery red stockings.

Autumn has finally tethered itself to this glacial soil. It is an idyllic setting. It is unburdened by hurry. It is undaunted by the shivering season to come.

Yet, there is unrest.

It has been a dry summer and the pastures are dusty. The cattle have had little more than stubble to graze on, so they await the appearance of Dale (Zak) Schrock on his New Holland blue.

If the hay arrives a bit late the cattle may bellow in frustration. Today there is no lowing, but as the tractor nears the pasture and Zak dismounts to open the gate, the herd, some 50 strong, begins lumbering toward the buffet.

These cattle are magnificent with arched horns stretching as far as four feet, tip to tip. While the bulls are larger in stature, all specimens have their signature horns and even the calves are born with skull buttons.

The coats they wear today are of the summer fashion line. However,

when winter arrives, the fur will thicken enough to capably protect even the youngest herd members from not only the biting winds of Northern Michigan, but also the brutal Scottish Highlands' climate, in which this hearty breed originated, and after which it is named.

Scottish Highland Cattle are among the most beloved of bovines for their shaggy coats, wide horns, and gentle dispositions. Zak isn't afraid to walk among them, though he duly respects a young calf's mother.

Zak's herd is multicolored. On day one, however, it was a monochrome rust. A few years later he introduced a darker bull to add some variation. Thereafter a color or two arrived which had no obvious provenance.

Now he has cattle of colors and shades that are a complete mystery.

"I've got no idea where that came from," he says, referring to an adolescent blond bull.

▪ Continuing reading at UpNorthVoice.com

Rosco Rotary gives out 25k in grants

By Donna Thoma

ROSCOMMON – Roscommon Rotary President Nate White oversaw $25,000 worth of grants to local organizations including: the Michigan Assessment Center; Roscommon High School Volleyball; Football Mom's Club; Roscommon Area Recreation Authority; Higgins Lake Property Owners Association Clean Water; Roscommon Historical Society; Big Brothers and Big

Sisters; and the Charles M Engel VFW Post 4159.

Those accepting the awards spoke on how the funds would help with such projects as renovating the kitchen at the AuSable River Center, roof repairs to the VFW and more.

Sheriff Ed Stern told Rotarians, “We appreciate everything you do for us.”

Rotary meets Thursdays at noon at Fred’s in Roscommon.

Copyright © Kevin Stone

Pictured (front, l-r) are White, Laura Cherven, Sheriff Ed Stern, Karrie Williams, Becky Yunker, Jory Klumpp, student Samantha Karoub; (back, l-r) Nancy Williams. Deputy Martin Austin, Ethan Brand, Kevin Sherman, student Alex Thiel, John Schloop, Roy Spangler, Tom O'Brien, Ron Alden, Jackie Bertsch and Tracy Constance.

A father came home from a tenday deer hunting trip to find his son riding a very expensive new mountain bike.

He asked his son, “Where did you get the money for that new bike? It must have cost a fortune. His son answered, “I earned it by hiking.”

The father said, “Come on now son, tell me the truth.”

His son said, “That is the truth! Every night that you were gone, Mr. Jones from the grocery store would come over to see mom and each time he’d give me a $20 bill and tell me to go take a hike!”

What did the gingerbread man put on his bed?

A cookie sheet!

How do elves respond when Santa takes attendance? “Present!”

Answer Puzzle can be found on page 13 B

Why did the deer get braces?

He had buck teeth

What does a deer call her boyfriend?

Cari-boo.

What do you call an elf that runs away from Santa's workshop? A rebel without a Claus!

Officers bring smiles to Brook

HOUGHTON LAKERoscommon Undersheriff Ben Lowe and Deputy Austin Martin dedicated their time this Thanksgiving season visiting with some of the residents at the Brook Retirement Community in Houghton Lake.

Each resident was gifted a fleece blanket, handmade card from a local student, and a Hallmark card from a member of the community. This program was started a few years back and took a hiatus due to COVID

Residents were glowing with appreciation as the genuine kindness of these officers absolutely made their day. Lowe and Martin were also visiting the Roscommon Brook, Mission Point Nursing Home, Horizon Assisted Living and Kings Nursing Center.

~ Photo by Alicia Noragon

SUCCESSFUL HUNTER

– Roscommon County resident Benjamin Apps spends a significant amount of time training himself and his dogs for the Fall bird season. He is pictured with his recent harvest in North Dakota.

Deputy Austin Martin and Undersheriff Ben Lowe with Brook resident, Theresa.

Sudoku

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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

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,

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Chunks of Spicy Chicken, Mozzarella & Feta. Made with our Southwest Sauce. 10.99 13.99 18.75 21.99 226 / 247 / 278 / 286 cal

Chicken Wings & Boneless Wings

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

1 2 3

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

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

NEW!

Pizza Bowls

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+

Pizza Pocket (Calzone)

Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese and your choice of up to 5 Items. $8.49 803-1363 cal Wet Burrito $7.99 Beef: 1078 cal

ALANSON 7568 US-31 SOUTH 231-548-3636

BELDING 1133 W. STATE ST 616-794-0000

BELMONT 2350 BELMONT CTR DR 616-988-6868

BOYNE CITY 1191 M-75 SOUTH 231-582-2288

BOYNE CITY-NORTH 472 N. LAKE ST. 231-582-6050

CADILLAC 6184 E. M-55 UNIT 110 231-779-1337

CHARLEVOIX M-66 CAPTAIN'S CORNER PLAZA 231-547-9999

CHEBOYGAN 523 MACKINAW AVE. 231-627-4254

DORR 1628 142ND AVE 616-681-6000

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

POETRY IN HALE - The first Poetry Night was held at The Victorian Cafe, in Hale on Nov 13. Owner Terry Bovee graciously allowed a small group of poetry lovers and writers to gather and share their writings. A variety of poems and short stories were read, generating much discussion and laughter. The group will meet again Dec.11 (second Sunday of December. All ages are invited to attend. INFO: Kristi Major 435.640.4100

Winter breaks camp at Gahagan

ROSCOMMON - The Marguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve will host a Winter Break Nature Camp Dec. 27-29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Youth in attendance will participate in nature-themed games, crafts, outdoor activities, and nature hikes. Cost to attend is $55 per day. A morning and afternoon snack will be provided.

“While our goal at the Gahagan Nature Preserve has always been to get youth outside, we are excited to offer additional opportunities for community programming with our upcoming Nature Camps,” said Education Director Kalsa Parker Browning.

“We hope this will fill a community need to provide quality youth programming when kids are out of school.

For more information and to register for camp, email info@ gahagannature.org or 989-275-3217.

Tamara Parsons sharing her piece at Poetry Night.

Published poet Sharon Hugo-Rochow joins Poetry Night.

Send your photos, announcements and club events to: info@UpNorthVoice.com

HIGGINS WELCOMES

CONSULTANT - Hunter Mires of Roscommon is a financial consultant with SPI Financial Group, based out of Traverse City. Hunter has opened a an office at The Barn at Higgins Lake. SPI Financial Group focuses on creating a financial plan that is tailored to fit each individual client. Feel free to call or text Hunter at 231277-2400 for any financial questions or concerns you may have.

JUST MARRIED - Justin and Zoey (Thayer) Morton celebrated their love and marriage on Oct. 22 at the Century Club Ballroom in Muskegon. Justin is the son of Tracey and Dennis Morton of Roscommon, and Zoey is the daughter of Pascha and Brian Stirling of Roscommon. Justin and Zoey are waiting a few months to honeymoon in Cancun. While they wait, they’ll be spending their winter months in Phoenix.

Hunter Mires

Luke Russell Kartes

Luke Russell Kartes, 17, West Branch, passed Oct. 23

Mildred Elizabeth (Egon) Turland

Mildred Elizabeth (Egon) Turland, 89, Lupton, passed Oct. 24

Arthur Ray Downey

Arthur Ray Downey, age 89, Prescott, passed Oct. 23

Robert (Bob) C. Miller

Robert (Bob) C. Miller, 89, Mio, passed Oct. 20

Carl Lynn Hall

Carl Lynn Hall, 62, Hale, passed Oct. 24

Cynthia Doreen Jones

Cynthia Doreen Jones, 73, West Branch, passed Oct. 27

Edna M. Preston (Thompson)

Edna M. Preston (Thompson), 90, Tawas, passed Oct. 26

Norma Jean Salow

Norma Jean Salow, 88, Pinconning, passed Oct. 28

Richard L. Densmore

Richard L. Densmore, 87, Hale, passed Oct. 26

Randy (Randall) Lamont

Randy (Randall) Lamont, AuGres, 68, passed Oct. 28

Larry Edward Eymer

Larry Edward Eymer, 86, Skidway Lake, passed Oct. 29

Robert Douglas Venable

Robert Douglas Venable, 87, Luzerne, passed Oct. 30

Carol Lynn Rang

Carol Lynn Rang, 82, Mio, passed Oct. 28th

Clarence George Donovan

Clarence George Donovan, 74, Skidway Lake, passed Oct. 31

Francis D. West

Francis D. West, 82, Tawas City, passed Oct. 31

Michael W. Machleit Jr

Michael W. Machleit Jr, 47, Roscommon, passed Nov. 3

Marion Doris Post

Marion Doris Post, 96, Houghton Lake Heights, passed Nov. 4

Douglas John Conrad II

Douglas John Conrad II, 53, Roscommon, passed Nov. 3

William “Bill” Howard Wilkins

William “Bill” Howard Wilkins, 67, West Branch, passed Nov. 2

Alan “Al” McGowen

Alan “Al” McGowen,79, Oscoda, passed Nov. 2

Betty Jean Thomas

Betty Jean Thomas, 96, Roscommon, passed Nov. 6

Virginia M. Linsenman

Virginia M. Linsenman, 93, West Branch, passed Nov. 5

Nickolas Petrik

Nickolas Petrik, 80, West Branch, passed Nov. 6

Duane Edward Loomis

Duane Edward Loomis, 90, West Twin Lake, passed Nov. 6

Gregory B. Miller

Gregory B. Miller, 68, Rhodes, passed Nov. 10 L. Donald Inman

L. Donald Inman, 78, Prudenville passed Nov. 9

Donald Allen McKee

Donald Allen McKee, 56, Greenwood Township, passed Nov. 10

Katie C. Troyer

Katie C. Troyer, 90, Goshen, formerly of Fairview, passed Oct. 14 John Edmond Fournier

John Edmond Fournier, 74, Hubbard Lake, passed Nov. 13

Wallace (Wally) Warren Knapp

Wallace (Wally) Warren Knapp, 72, Grayling, passed Nov. 11

Dr. George E. Pestrue

Dr. George E. Pestrue, 84, Standish, passed Nov. 12

Shirley Mae (Brown) Wade

Shirley Mae (Brown) Wade, 90, Roscommon, formerly Saginaw, passed Nov. 13

Shirley Ann Iovaldi

Shirley Ann Iovaldi, 73, Prudenville passed Nov. 12

Dale Arthur Boudrie Sr.

Dale Arthur Boudrie Sr., 86, Prudenville, passed Nov. 14

Geraldine (Geri) Ellen (Richards) Willobee

September 4, 1929 – October 5, 2022

Geri passed away peacefully at the young age of 93. Born in Grand Blanc Michigan she spent most of her adult life in Oxford and then moved to St. Helen. Affectionately known as the :Euchre Queen”, she missed her “Euchre King”, Russ Willobee who passed on May 1, 2014. They were happily married for 67 years.

Sandra Elizabeth Whipple

Sandra Elizabeth Whipple, 77, Standish, passed Nov. 5

Arthur Lange

Arthur Lange, 66, of Mio, passed Nov. 5

Linda Ann Greenway (Gonsler)

Linda Ann Greenway (Gonsler), 63, Grayling, passed Nov. 5

Bertha Jane Gibbs

Bertha Jane Gibbs, 83, West Branch, passed Nov. 8

George William Frahm Jr

George William Frahm Jr, 98, St. Helen, passed Nov. 11

Daniel Ernest Stocker

Daniel Ernest Stocker, 80, Grayling, passed Nov. 11

Geraldine (Geri) Ellen (Richards) Willobee

Geraldine (Geri) Ellen (Richards) Willobee, 93, St. Helen, passed Oct. 5

Russell Dean Schubert

Russell Dean Schubert, 87, Clio, passed Nov. 14

Kathryn Louise Lawrence

Kathryn Louise Lawrence, 84, passed Nov. 15

Surviving Geri are her five children, Margaret Murphy, Karen Devault (Mike Devault), George Willobee (Karen O’Malley), Richard Willobee (Bridget White) and Jim Willobee (Ashley). She was known as Grams, Grandma and Great Ma to her 9 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 11 great, great grandchildren. Geri was the last of her siblings to survive, being predeceased by Thelma Hearns, David Richards, and James Richards.

Geri was widely admired for her delicious fruit pies, her dry sense of humor, stubborn, yet positive determination and her willingness to help others. She was a dedicated volunteer with the VFW and her church. Geri was a crocheter (fiber artist, yarnie) extraordinaire. She and Russ enjoyed dancing for many years. With a full load, mothering a busy family, she found time to dedicate her talents to the Oakland Intermediate School District as a graphic design assistant for many years. For peace and recreation Geri enjoyed camping, as well as cards and game playing.

Geri celebrated her 93rd birthday camping with family and friends and won the Euchre tournament. She left this life the champ in Euchre, and most especially in life, and in all of ours. Her spirit and presence will be felt forever and always. She was deeply loved.

A celebration of life is being arranged in both Saint Helen and Holland Michigan. For details, visit ofieldfuneralhome.com.

A hero’s welcome

by Michael Ritchie

Roscommon’s Danny Holbrook and an Upper Peninsula Veteran Ryan Hulce may have fought in different wars but were honored with nine other U.S. disabled veterans at the annual Hunting with Heroes program.

The Hunting with Heroes program of Wyoming was co-founded by veterans Colton Sasser and Dan Currah. Currah shared, “We are losing our Vietnam veterans left and right due to the consequences of Agent Orange. When we came home from Nam, we did not receive a hero’s welcome. Our organization seeks to make up for that.”

The state of Wyoming makes available donated tags to organizations like “Hunting with Heroes.” The program provides a guide, lodging, food, and gifts from sponsors. This opportunity also has meat processors that donate their services to our nation’s finest. “All they have to do is get here and we take care of everything once they arrive.” says Currah.

Michael Ritchie is the Outdoor Ministries Director at Roscommon Baptist Church. Ritchie helped to raise funds for the travel expenses. Deacon Dennis Fiebelkorn drove the men roundtrip from Michigan to Wyoming “Safari Club Mid -Michigan came up big once again by paying for gas, lodging and food,” said Ritchie

The hunters arrived a day early in Thermopolis and met with their guides to sight in their rifles. That night, dinner was provided for them at the local V.F.W. post. Each hero went out hunting after breakfast the next morning and were told they

would not settle for a small one.

Each guide is apprised of the hunters’ disabilities and their hunting methods were adjusted accordingly. Danny was concerned he would have to walk a distance and was relieved to find out he was able to just get out of the vehicle and shoot from a rest.

Danny’s Guide T.J. Owsley stated, “I was extremely worried, the weather was windy and rainy. Access to private ground would be limited. The ranchers were concerned we would tear up their roads with our vehicles. The antelope were tucked away out of the wind which presented a challenge spotting a good one.”

Owsley a veteran himself, spotted one that he knew they needed to kill. Danny went on to say, “T.J. knew the landowner and told them our situation and the landowner gladly gave us permission to hunt on his land. He even wanted to help T.J. gut it and lift it into our truck. The special antelope scored 82” and had beautiful heart shaped horns, almost touching at the top.”

Dan Holbrook of Roscommon and his guide T.J. Owsley ~ Courtesy photo

A hero's welcome

Ryan’s guide Shane Wilson took him out the evening before to prescout for their hunt, but they were challenged by the weather. Their scouting yielded no bucks they would want to take. The next day Ryan his 75 3/8 Wyoming antelope buck at 8:30 am. A perfect shot took down the beautiful buck just fifty yards from behind the truck.

That evening the V.F.W. handled the meal and local teen aged children served the heroes their meal. All eleven veterans had shot nice bucks and were all happy to tell their stories

to each other. The antelope meat was being processed and frozen for their trip home. On Sunday, a meal was provided at a private home and was highlighted by a ceremony to honor each hunter for their service to our country.

Colton Sasser summed up the whole experience, “When Dan and I started Hunting with Heroes, we wanted to honor the disabled vets with a high-quality western hunting experience. What we found was so much more. The greatest benefit from this experience was the friendships that were made and the heartfelt conversations we shared.

Continued from 5 C

WELLINGTON FUN – Wellington Farms in Grayling held its annual pumpkin chunking contest last month. The annual event gives visitors to the farm a chance to use a trebuchet to throw pumpkins across the parade field.

Art in the making! Lilly Baker, Trace Beeney and Bo Baker demonstrate their pumpkin carving skills.

Emmanuel sent to us

By Marty Tarrant

He was the long-promised Emmanuel sent by God to save his people and usher in a new kingdom. He came as the mediator between God and man, as our redeemer, savior, and friend.

2000 years ago, God looked upon our sin ravished world, saw our hopelessness and all our futile attempts to make ourselves right with him. He did what we could never do, and he came to us. When Christ was born here on earth he quite literally became “God with us.” It’s the most important event in mankind’s history!

Christmas is about family and the love that you need to have for one another. It’s about coming together, breaking bread, and fellowship. We

need to make sure that Christ is the center of everything that we do.

Christmas is about the joy of the Lord. It’s about being thankful for our health and everything else that God does for us daily. It’s about giving back and showing appreciation to those close to you in this life. It’s very important to never forget where you came from.

When celebrating Christmas, one should strive to have their character be “Christ like”. After all, you may be the only Bible someone reads. Let Jesus be seen through you. God wanted everyone to come to the knowledge of Christ and be saved so that no one would be lost.

God Bless, Pastor Marty Tarrant New Hope Chapel PCG

Pastor Marty and his wife, Teena Tarrant.