Up North Voice July 2021 by Up North Voice

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Up North

Voice Vol. 12, Issue 7

Strengthening the communities of Northeast Michigan

Free

July 2021

Kids at critters and Iosco Fair

HALE – The 2021 Iosco County Fair is scheduled for July 26-31 at the Iosco County Fairgrounds, located at 5717 Curtis Road (M-65) in Hale. The fair will feature traditional events such as a ♦ See IOSCO FAIR on page 5

Marathon week kicks off

IN THIS ISSUE:

By Traci Cook

GRAYLING - Summer is in full swing, which means the community is gearing up for the 2021 AuSable River Festival taking place in Grayling July 16-24, 2021, an extension of the famous Consumers Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon! ▪ See MARATHON on page 4

START ‘EM EARLY - Thomas Vinyard (front) and Marcus Vinyard of Roscommon were able to sit in a 1951 Willy’s Jeep at the Blue Collar Festival Car Show held in Mio recently. See more photos on pages 8 A. - Photos by Mark Constance

Neighbors

Stauffer comes full circle By Theresa Ekdom ROSCOMMON – Not many people can say they’ve worked at the same place for 50 years. But Barb can. Not many people can say they are one of seven generations living in the same town. But Barb can. Barb Stauffer was born and raised in Roscommon, one of the last people born at home in the county. Both her mom and dad were also born and raised here as well. She knows the family stories, of her Great-grandfather, as well as her Uncle Dave Myer, who were both heads of the county health department. And of her grandfather, Bob Myer. Her stories of town often reference the past. “My grandfather, Bob Myer, was the janitor at the school, the CRAF Center now,” Barb said. “They lived just across from the village hall, the old village hall. He used to walk over to the school once or twice a night in the wintertime to put coal in the furnace, to keep the building warm.” She tells of local politicians and other influential family members, not hard to do when there are seven generations of relatives living in the area. “My mother’s side of the family and my father’s side of the family, we have had now, with my three little great-grandsons, seven generations live in town. Not many people can

say that!” exclaimed Barb. She is sought out at her place of employment when questions arise. “I don’t know how many times in the building they’ve said they hate to see me leave. They would say I’m the historian, and if they don’t know the answer to something, they would say ‘Ask Barb because she’s been in the building forever.” Barb is the Crawford-Roscommon Conservation District (CRCD) Administrator and the Roscommon County Recycling Coordinator. She attended business school after graduating from high school and went to work at Roscommon State Bank the day after graduating. “I was engaged to Clint when I went to business school. He was working in the area. Our goal was always to stay here. And then we got married right after I got out of business school. I got the job at the bank, and he got the job at the (Roscommon County) road commission. So, the rest is kind of history,” Barb reminisced. Three children came along, along with the decision to stay at home for a while. “There was an ad in the paper for this job. It was advertising for a half a day a week. And that’s what I started out with,” said Barb. “It was business, and it was doing outdoor work which I liked, and it was a half ♦ See NEIGHBORS on page 5

Above: Barb Stauffer sits at her desk while employed by the Crawford-Roscommon Conservation District (CRCD) in 1981. Barb started with the organization in May, 1971. Right: Barb Stauffer in 2021, still employed by the CRCD

A-8 Mio is ‘Blue Collar’ A–10 West Branch ‘Gaga’ pit B-1 Fairview Eagle Voice B-3 Grayling Lions golf B-8 St. Helen’s Bluegill’ B-12 Higgins Lake Mayor B-13 Hale softball title B-14 Rosco Rotary

Out & About - July 2021 Editor's note: Out and About is a calendar feature for community events and activities across the region. Please do not include any paid advertising. To submit an item for publication visit upnorthvoice.com/eventsubmission, or email mconstance@ upnorthvoice.com. Please contact event coordinators to ensure events are ongoing. ROSCOMMON COUNTY 2 - St. Helen Fireworks at Richfield Township Park. For info call 989-389-1135. 7 – Blue Water Ramblers as part of the CRAF Center Music series. Show starts on the CRAF Center lawn at 7 p.m. Info: 989-275-4975. 10 - Mark your calendar for July 10, 2021 St Helen Helping Hands

Up North Voice A Division of AuSable Media Group, LLC A veteran-owned business located at 709 Lake Street, PO Box 113, Roscommon MI 48653 “Friend, guide and companion of all good people”

Up North Voice is published monthly and distributed in Roscommon, St. Helen, Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Grayling, Lovells, Waters, Gaylord, Johannesburg, Lewiston, Comins, Atlanta, Mio, Fairview, McKinley, Rose City, Luzerne, Lupton, West Branch, Skidway Lake, Hale, Glennie, Curran, Tawas City, East Tawas, National City, Whittemore, Prescott, AuSable and Oscoda.

6th 5K Fun Run/ Walk starts. Sign up at 7am with the run/walk starting at 7:45am , then from 11am until 4pm join us for some yummy food provided by Dirty Smoke of the 222 BBQ cost only $7 our live Auction will start at 3pm. All this plus fun for you and your family at the Richfield Township Cove Park aka the Cater Cove Beach and Marina. If you love BBQ and the beach you won't want to miss this and help out a really good cause. Any question call Roberta Kary President at 989-6323300 or John Sutter Vice President 989-808-4655. 10 – St. Helen Helping Hands 5k Run and Auction. Race starts at St. Helen Cover Park on Airport Road. Info: 989-632-3300 10 – Roscommon Arts Festival. 10 a.m. To 5 p.m. on the CRAF Center Lawn. Juried fine arts, crafts and food. For information call the Roscommon-Higgins Lake Chamber of Commerce at 989-275-8760. 10 – Habitat for Humanity Junk in the Trunk sale from 9 a.m. To 3 p.m. at the Village Square Plaza in Houghton Lake (in front of the Family Fare). Info: 989-488-6106. 11 – Great AuSable Duck Race, sponsored by the Roscommon Rotary Club. 2 p.m. at Wallace Park in Roscommon. Tickets available from any Rotarian, or at the park. 15 – Friends of Trestle Park are sponsoring father and son duo Michael and James Wagner, with

singer Cassie Sprague for a funfilled evening of “Real Music from Then to Now” ON TAP! Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the music and fun! Runs from 7-9 p.m. 16-17 – Houghton Lake Blues Festival from 7-11 p.m., sponsored by the Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce. Six band in two days! HLBF is the proud recipient of a Michigan Council of the Arts and Cultural Affairs mini grand, in conjunction with Art in the Loft. Event located at the chamber office at 1625 West Houghton Lake Drive. Info: 989-366-5644. 21 - 2021 Summer Gazebo Concerts at the CRAF Center (606 Lake Street) in Roscommon at 7 p.m. Performing is Blues Mobile. Info roscorec.org. 24 – St. Helen Lake Association Family Fun Fest at the St. Helen Launch Park on Airport Road. Info: 989-302-3195 or sthelenlakeassociation.org. 30 – Family Outdoor Movie at Good Shepherd of the North, located at 149 West Robinson Lake Road. Show starts at 7 p.m. For information call 989-275-5577. August 7 – Higgins Lake Awareness Day from 4-6 p.m. at the RAM Center on the North Shore of Beautiful Higgins Lake. 7 – St. Helen Lake Association Boat Wash at the St. Helen Boat Launch. Info: 989-302-3195.

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

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13-15 – St. Helen ORV Jam at the Richfield Township Park. Info: 989-915-2682. 27 – Family Outdoor Movie at Good Shepherd of the North, located at 149 West Robinson Lake Road. Show starts at 7 p.m. For information call 989-275-5577. OSCODA COUNTY 3 – Hometown shopping event from 10 a.m. To 4 p.m. on the Oscoda County Courthouse lawn. Vendors, food and more. Sponsored by the Oscoda County Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds to benefit restoration at the Lady of the Woods Shrine. 8 – Culpepper and Merriweather Circus at the Oscoda County Fairgrounds. Shows at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. IOSCO COUNTY 10 – Tawas Antiques on Tawas Bay from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Brunner Plaza, beneath the big Flag. Proceeds to benefit the Iosco County Humane Society. 26-31 – Iosco County Fair at 5717 Curtis Road in Hale. Watch UpNorthVoice.com for details or visit Iosco County Fair on Facebook or email Mark at info@ioscocountyfair. com. 20 – Tuesday Night Street Dance on Neuman Street in East Tawas. ▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 3

Out & about Continued from page 2

20 – Whittemore-Prescott Chamber of Commerce meeting from 7-8 p.m. at 405 E. Sherman Street in Whittemore. 21 – “Hurry Up & Paddle” Canoe Race (pending approval with more details to follow) To be sponsored by the Oscoda-AuSable Chamber of Commerce. 22 – “Blind (folded) Canoe Race” (pending approval with more details to follow) To be sponsored by the Oscoda-AuSable Chamber of Commerce 23 – Wurtsmith Air Museum Presents Gary Powers, Jr. at 4 p.m. at the Oscoda Area High School Auditorium. “Hear the story behind the headlines”. 31 – Flying Star Rodeo at the Iosco County Fairgrounds. Thursdays – Music at the Gazebo in Hale, at the intersection of M-65 and Esmond Road. Bring an instrument and join in, or bring a chair and enjoy the music, starting around 6 p.m. CRAWFORD COUNTY 10 – 2021 Black Bear Fondo at Hanson Hills in Grayling. For details on the bike race, visit blackbeargranfondo.com. 16-25 – AuSable River Festival sponsored in part by the Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce. For a complete schedule of information visit ausableriverfest.com. 17-18 – Quilt Show at Wellington Farms, USA, located at 6940 S. Military Road in Grayling. Event runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. 24-25 – AuSable River Canoe Marathon - The 74th annual running of One of the Greatest Canoe Races on Earth, sponsored in part by Consumers Energy. Racers launch at

9 p.m. in downtown Grayling. OGEMAW COUNTY 7 – Culpepper & Merriweather Circus at Surline Middle School. Call the West Branch Area Chamber of Commerce for info at 989-3452821. 8 – Summer Music Series at Irons Park in Downtown West Branch from 7-9 p.m. The Todd Michael Band (Country). 11 – Ogemaw County Fair Christmas in July at the fairgrounds on Rifle River Trail in West Branch. Info: Mary Lucas at 989-941-2005. 15 – Summer Music Series at Irons Park in Downtown West Branch from 7-9 p.m. Teddy Petty & The Refugees (Tom Petty Tribute). Through July 17 – 2021 Fine Arts Show with a theme of “Toys.” 2021. For exhibit application call 989-3450254. 22 – Summer Music Series at Irons Park in Downtown West Branch from 7-9 p.m. The Rockshow Band (Journey Tribute). 22-25 – Pioneer Power Antique Tractor and Gas Engine Annual Show on M-55, just east of M-33. Info: 989-345-2821.s 29 – Summer Music Series at Irons Park in Downtown West Branch from 7-9 p.m. Motor City Memories: (50's and 80's). REGION 10-17 – Gladwin County Fair. Info: gladwinfair.org or call 989-4262311. 10 – 42nd Annual Gladwin Arts and Crafts Festival in the Gladwin City Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: 989-429-3272. 15 – Gladwin County Garden Tour from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Info: 989-246-8000.

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Voice Staff Mark Constance Publisher

mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com

Tracy Constance Marketing

tracy@UpNorthVoice.com

Lindy Peterson Reporter

lindythemermaid@yahoo. com

Marathon Continued from page 1

Warren Stutesman Reporter warren@upnorthvoice.com

William Broadnax Distribution Manager williambroadnax2015@ gmail.com

Axel Jacobs Roscommon Distribution

Matthew Barnes Grayling Distribution

Letter to the editor policy: AuSable Media Group encourages all readers with a connection to the community to submit letters to the editor for possible publication. Please limit letters to 300 words. Author must include a daytime contact number. Letters are the individual opinion of the author and do not reflect the opinions of the staff, advertisers or contributors to the Voice. The Voice reserves the right to accept or reject any letter. To submit a letter email it to: mconstance@upnorthvoice. com, mail to P.O. Box 113, Roscommon, MI 48653, or stop by the office at 709 Lake Street in Roscommon.

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Our community has events planned to engage all ages and stages of individuals starting the first weekend with the Pre-Show Cruise Night, Classic Car & Truck Show, and Spike’s Challenge. Following that are Kid’s Day, HUP (Hurry Up & Paddle) Race, Arts & Crafts Show, Time Trials, Food Court, AuSable Main Stage and Brew Avenue, Special Olympics Canoe Race, Eagles Steak Out Dinner and Horseshoe Tournament, American Legion Beer Tent, Paddle Battle, Cornhole Tournament, Vendors & Activity Booths, GRA 10k/5k, Lumberjack Breakfast, Parade, Canoe Marathon, and so much more. It takes a community to put together something on this scale, and we see over 10,000 people during the AuSable River Festival and Canoe Marathon, and we expect this year to be even busier. So, this is the time to be active in our community, get your business/organization out there, get involved and take advantage of the great things the AuSable River Canoe Marathon and AuSable River Festival have done for our town! Head over to our festival website at www.ausableriverfest.com to find even more details on events, how to participate, and volunteer

opportunities. We can also be found on Facebook @ausableriverfestival. For details specifically about the canoe race, visit www. ausablecanoemarathon.org (note this event is run by a separate organization). Check out all the fun events lined up for this year’s Festival at www.ausableriverfest. com. AuSable River Festival events hosted by the chamber: • July 17 – Classic Car & Truck Show, 8am-3pm on Michigan Avenue (Registration 7-10am) • July 20 – Kid’s Day, 10am-2pm in Grayling City Park • July 21 – HUP Race, 5:30pm in Grayling City Park • July 22-24 – AuSable Main Stage & Brew Avenue/Vendors/ Activities on Michigan Avenue (200300 Blocks) • July 23-24 – Arts & Crafts Show, (Fri 10am-8pm / Sat 9am-6pm) in Grayling City Park • July 23-24 – Food Court, 11am-8pm each day on Michigan Avenue (100 Block) Visit www.graylingchamber.com or call 989-348-2921 at any time for Crawford County and chamber member information and a list of upcoming community events. - Traci Cook is director of the Grayling Area Chamber of Commerce

‘Closet’ hours change By Rosemary Nelson

GRAYLING – Due to the COVID pandemic the Crawford County Baby to Toddler ‘Closet’ has announced new hours. The Closet is now open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month. Go to the back of the Michelson church and enter by the red door. Please call Rosemary Nelson at 989745-2805 ahead of time to provide information including the number of children and diaper size. The Closet is still saving Spartan Family Fare receipts, so it can use that money for non-recyclable items such as diapers, wipes underwear, socks, shoes and other personal items.

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For a quote please call 989-275-1170 or email mconstance@UpNorthVoice.com

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FREE COLLEGE Whhe in High Schoo

Neighbors Continued from page 1

a day a week.” Barb started with the CRCD in May, 1971. It would grow from a half a day a week to some years a fulltime job, depending on what project she was working on. For almost 20 years she was also the program administer for what is now the USDA Farm Services Agency, what used to be called the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service. “It was the financial aid for landowners who wanted to plant trees, to plant crops, plant windbreaks, wildlife habitat, whatever. I helped them get money to do that. And then in the long run we would sell them the trees. I did that for almost 20 years.” The job started in the basement of the Roscommon County building.

SHOP LOCAL

And in telling the story of the office changes, you hear the history of the village. “I started out in the basement here. In this building. That was back when the basement was the commissioners meeting room and all the events were held down there. There was another (little used) entrance. We parked out back and walked down the stairs.” “Then we moved here, where the old DNR building, which is now the River Center, when it set here. We moved upstairs there. MSU Extension moved upstairs with us. And at that time health dept was moving out.” With additional funds coming from projects and the state, another move followed. “We wanted to be ‘individual’ so people didn’t mix us up with MSUE, or the DNR,” she said. “And we wanted to be on the ground floor and accessible to people. So, the Secretary of State moved out across the street – Where Dewey’s (Auto Repair). We call that Bill’s old building, or Ballard’s building. We moved over there. And for years

people would come in to get their driver’s license or get their trailer license.” Once the CRAF Center was established, another move was made. “I thought ‘Wow, what a great opportunity.’ And they needed the support, financial and people support,” Barb continued. Barb’s office was downstairs by the entrance, with storage upstairs in the balcony of the gym. When the Conservation District hired a forester, and were given the Gypsy Moth program, offices were also moved upstairs. Time passed, funding changed, and about 15 years ago the county building underwent renovations. “They had all these empty rooms, so we moved back here. We circled around.” Her job has circled around as well. With the hiring of Sherrie Ciaramitaro, Barb is back to working a half a day a week in preparation for full retirement. What kept Barb at the Conservation District for 50 years were the people and the projects. “I just like working with people

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and caring about the environment and our area. The (expo) and tree program has always been big. But mostly just working with people in our area and meeting all the new people who come to the area.” Her position in life and the community is coming round full circle. With retirement comes more time to spend at their cottage on the lake and with family that live here. While stepping back from some projects like the Gerrish-Higgins Alumni Association, Barb will still be active in genealogy and the historical society. And her husband, Clint, came out of retirement and has started his third, six-year term as a Roscommon County Road Commissioner.

Iosco Fair Continued from page 1

midway, rodeo, 4-H animals and exhibits, food, vendors, entertainers and much more. Watch UpNorthVoice.com for details as the fair approaches, or email Mark at info@ioscocountyfair. com.

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Raymond Bohm, and Lisa and Dan Sutton handled used tire collection.

HAZARDOUS HELPERS – The Crawford-Roscommon Conservation District (CRCD) held its annual hazardous waste drop off June 19. The event was held at the Roscommon County Road

Commission in Prudenville. Items accepted included: Tires, batteries, computer equipment, used oil and more. For information about the CRCD call 989-275-3163.

Right: Jim Bischoff and Bill Cook disposed of oil and other hazardous liquid waste.

- Mark Constance

Left: Pat Inman and Judy Lambic worked the exit gate.

Local authors write for Brown Trout Festival

ALPENA - Fairview authors, Richard and Mary Rensberry, have just published “Big Brownie”, a custom book written and illustrated for the annual Michigan Brown Trout Festival in Alpena. “Big Brownie” is the famed, tagged brown trout that is raised and released every year just prior to the tournaments opening, and is the big money prize if caught during the 10-day event festivities. The elusive Big Brownie has only been caught once during the festival’s 46-year history. Author, Richard Rensberry grew up on a farm outside of Alpena and attended Alpena Community College,

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as well as Michigan State University where he majored in parks and recreation. He is an avid fishermen and spokesperson for Michigan’s natural wonders as well as the author of over 40 books, including his locally set “Conversations With Sasquatch” series. “Big Brownie” will be featured as part of this year’s children’s day at the Brown Trout event on Sunday, July 17. Richard will be on hand at the festivities, signing copies and visiting with the kids. The book will be handed out as part of a bag of school supplies to the nearly 500 children who will attend the event.

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Josephine Reeves of Grayling sits Wesley Lewis of Elmira won best of show with motionless as her face painted by Lindsay Bills of Luzerne. his 1966 Mustang.

Jeremy Jackson of Brownstown (left) and Gil Stephenson of Sturgis played in the opening round of the cornhole tournament.

Below, Left: Although Chevrolets were prominent at the car show, it was a Ford that won. Below, Right: This small block V-8 was polished and ready to show.

SUNSHINE BRINGS OUT A CROWD – Mio hosted the second annual Blue Collar Festival downtown on June 19. The event featured a car show, food, vendors, a cornhole tournament, face painting, live music and much more. Several streets were closed for two-day event, which drew hundreds of people to downtown Mio.

- Photos by Mark Constance

Lisa Bills (right) of Fairview tries to use a little ‘English’ on her toss as Penny Ireland turns loose a throw in the cornhole tournament.

Working at the entrance were (l-r) Jordyn Hoffman, Kaitlyn Oates, Stephanie Celebes and Tammy Gadowski.

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You Made It Happen was awarded to Crawford AuSable School District K-12 Educators, Support Staff, and all Individuals. Pictured (l-r) are Traci Cook, Justin Gluesing, Jerremey Carr, Patty Hawkins and Linda Schultz.

GRAYLING AWARD WINNERS – The Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce recently held a virtual awards night. Chamber

Director Traci Cook said the event is held annually in honor of the people who help the Crawford County community move forward.

Business of the year is Crawford AuSable Day Care & Preschool. Pictured (l-r) are Chamber Director Traci Cook, Salena Laskowski, Marsha Wakeley and Chamber Volunteer Phyllis Gentile.

Chamber Organization of the year is the staff of Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital. Pictured (l-r) are Justin Andre, Mike Hodnett, Kristen Korth-White, and Angela Rimer.

Kirk Wakefield Service Member of the Year went to Russ Strohpal. Pictured are Ryan Swope and Andy Strohpal, who accepted the award on behalf of his dad.

HOT DAY AT LYDIA'S GATE – Lydia’s Gate had it annual auction in 90+ degree weather at Living Waters Lutheran Church in Mio. Codee Johnson and Janel DeGuzman were helping with the silent auction items. See more photos at UpNorthVoice.com. - Photo by Mark Constance

Citizen of the Year went to Rick McBride, who is pictured with Kevin Jansen.

Longevity Award went to Crawford AuSable Day Care & Preschool. Pictured (l-r) are Traci Cook, Salena Laskowski, Michelle Millikin.

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Not a 'Lady Gaga' pit West Branch Girl Scout Troop #50736 built a “Gaga Pit” in West branch. The game itself is based on dodgeball, except you must use your feet and the game is played inside a pit. The girls also made pec card signs for non-verbal kids to use on the school playground. Pictured are Aaliyah, Adrienne, Charlize, Emma, Journey, Somer and Violet. Leaders are Kris and Kelly.

For info on advertising in print or online call Tracy at 989-275-1170

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Grayling Chamber Spotlight-A-Member

Board members include (l-r) Angela Miller, Elizabeth Steinhurst, Andrea Rose, Bradley Summers, Jozann Burgin and Marc Haring. Not pictured are Paul Bailey and Randy Booth.

North Central Michigan Community Foundation

GRAYLING – The North Central Michigan Community Foundation (NCMCF) is the Grayling Area Chamber of Commerce Spotlight-AMember for July 2021. NCMCF is an affiliate foundation of the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan, which employs six staff members. Affiliate Director Christine Hitch said NCMCF is overseen by a volunteer board of local business and civic leaders. Currently there are eight people on this board. They also have many youth volunteers (approximately 30) throughout

Crawford, Ogemaw and Oscoda Counties who are part of our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program. Established in 1997 when the W.K. Kellogg Foundation offered a 2:1 match for every dollar raised, NCMFC has awarded more than $3 million in grants and scholarships to the three-county service area. NCMCF currently has $6.9 million in total assets, all earmarked for charitable interests in Crawford, Ogemaw, and Oscoda Counties. For information call Hitch at 989354-3319 or email chitch@cfnem.org.

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

July 2021 Page 11

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Obituaries & Death Notices George Ebling III

George Ebling III, 76, of Luzerne passed May 26, 2021. Memorials may be made in his memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Robert Pacholka

Robert A. “Bitchin Bob” Pacholka, 58 of Mio, Passed away June 6, 2021.

Frederick Noack

Frederick Paul Noack, 76, of Mio, passed away June 2, 2021.

Martha Carol Sancrant

Martha Carol Sancrant, 86, of Houghton Lake passed June 1, 2021.

'Cookie' Barth

Cameron Cullin

Cameron Cullin, 93, of Rose City, June 21, 2021.

Gary Vasley

Gary Richard Vasley Sr., 72, of Alger, passed June 19, 2021.

'Hammer' Grezeszak

Daniel Abe 'Hammer' Grezeszak, 49, of Rose City, passed away June 1, 2021.

Joan Cummings

Anthony Keith

Anthony Thomas Keith, 56, of West Branch, passed Jun 14, 2021.

Peter Gensman

Alice Burak

Lucille Smith

Mickey Gilboe

Claudine Foulk

Peter McNicholl

Peter James Gensman, 58, passed June 13, 2021. Mickey Lee Gilboe, 42, of Prescott, passed June 12, 2021.

Alice Lilly Burak, 89, of Grayling, passed June 25, 2021. Claudine M. Foulk 92, formerly of Grayling, passed April 25, 2020.

Scott Lee Harding,

Scott Lee Harding, 55, of Houghton Lake passed June 6, 2021.

Margaret A. Blanchard, 79, of Houghton Lake Heights passed June 20, 2021.

'Sonny' Mayhew

Leonard Francis Mayhew, 6, of St. Helen passed June 24, 2021.

Doris Perkins

Doris Elaine Perkins, 77, of West Branch, passed June 21, 2021. Memorial contributions can to the American Cancer Society.

Marc Harland

Marc Jeffery Harland, 66, of Grayling passed June 9, 2021. Lucille Naomi Smith, 76, of Grayling, passed June 4, 2021. Peter Joseph McNicholl, 87, of Hale, passed June 25, 2021. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Pete to either the Ogemaw Commission on Aging (1528 S. M-33, West Branch, Michigan, 48661) or to St. Pius X Catholic Church (3901 M-65, Hale, Michigan 48739).

Robert Brown

Robert Arthur Bowen, 69, of Hale, passed June 20, 2021.

'Bill' Meyers

Margaret A. Blanchard

Robert Allen Prause, 81, of Grayling, passed June 10, 2021. Memorials be sent to the Grayling Lion’s Club, P.O. 109, Frederic, MI 49733.

Joan B. Cummings, 90, of Prescott passed May 30, 2021. Memorial Contributions can be made to Heartland Hospice.

Lenore Carolyn "Cookie" Barth, 85, of Houghton Lake passed June 4, 2021. Memorial contributions in memory of Lenore are asked to be directed to Munson Hospice.

William George "Bill" Meyers, 82, of Houghton Lake passed June 8, 2021. Memorial contributions to the Roscommon County Animal Shelter.

Robert Prause

Shirley Zink

Shirley Louise Zink, 81, of West Branch, Michigan passed June 11, 2021. Memorial contributions to Faith Alive Church.

Cynthia Potts

Cynthia Susan Potts, 57, of St. Helen, passed June 4, 2021.

David Dobie Harbowy

David Dobie Harbowy, 74, of St. Helen, passed June 3, 2021. Memorial contributions to the We Care Shop.

Michelle Barber

Michelle Renee Barber, 54, of Grayling, passed on June 21, 2021.

Terry Wakeley

Terry Ronald Wakeley, 77, of Grayling, passed on May 9, 2021.

Gustav Preinl

Gustav J. Preinl, 77, of Grayling, MI passed June 18, 2021.

Joy Wright

Joy Beverly Wright (Reid) passed June 17, 2021. Memorials can be made to Crawford AuSable Daycare.

Robert Schultz, Sr.

Robert Mark Schultz, Sr., 84 of Hale passed June 18, 2021.

Arlene Heacock

Arlene Sandra Heacock, 83, of Hale, passed June 3, 2021. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mrs. Heacock to either Londo Lake West Park in Plainfield Township or the Hale Area Fairgrounds.

- Obituaries sponsored in part by St. Helen-Roscommon Monument.

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July 2021 Page 13

How recreation drives Northern Michigan’s economy The Nature of Things By Chris Engle The year 2020 was a big one for outdoor recreation. Across the country, people looked to the woods and waters to find fresh air and open spaces — to connect to nature, explore new hobbies and find moments of peace. The number of people recreating outdoors in 2020 increased by 4.6 percent nationwide, according to a report released in June by the State Outdoor Business Alliance Network (SOBAN). In comparison, the year prior to the pandemic saw a modest 1.2-percent rise. Long before the pandemic, Northern Michigan communities embraced outdoor recreation as a unique selling point for the region. Go to the visitors bureau website of any city and you’ll consistently see photos of people paddling canoes, biking forest trails and hoisting fish. Splashed across these images are slogans selling the flavor of each town: “Sanctuary of the Great Lakes (Alpena), “Gateway to the Waterways” (Cheboygan), “Naturally” (Oscoda) and so on. There’s a reason so much emphasis is placed on the outdoors when it comes to pitching Northeast Michigan to visitors: Tourism structured around outdoor recreation is a significant and growing part of our region’s economy. “Our entire platform centers around Alpena being a modern city at nature’s doorstep,” said Mary Beth Stutzman, President and CEO of Alpena Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Promoting recreation is what we do. People can have these outdoor experiences but still have the

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modern conveniences of great coffee shops, lodging, restaurants and retail. It’s the whole package.” As the number of people taking up outdoor recreation trends upward, new opportunities and challenges around recreational access, stewardship and economic growth will arise. Last year, sales of recreational equipment increased across the board: Bike sales were up 121 percent, boat sales increased by 70 percent, and camping equipment jumped by 28 percent, according to the SOBAN report. This bodes well not just for local outfitters, but for entire communities whose identities are built around the outdoors. Celebrating our natural resources through recreation requires a balance between access and overuse. Recreation takes infrastructure and ongoing stewardship of the landscape. Trails need to be cleared and maintained to accommodate backpackers and mountain bikers. Public land relies on access points, parking areas, waste removal and decontamination to keep woods and waters healthy and to allow everyone an opportunity to enjoy them. Parks, campgrounds and recreation areas need land management to support the plant and animal habitats that make them special places to visit. “We’re forecasting a really robust summer and we’ll need to work hard on education efforts to make sure we are protecting our outdoor tourism assets,” said Paul Beachnau, Executive Director of the Gaylord Area Convention and Tourism Bureau (slogan, “All Outdoors”) and a board member of Huron Pines. “We always encourage people to visit our natural resources but we want visitors to have an understanding and respect for them.” Huron Pines supports efforts to expand public land ownership ▪ See RECREATION on page 15

Recreation

Continued from page 14

and improve recreational access to connect more people to nature and inspire them to take action to steward the places they love. In January, Huron Pines announced the purchase of a 145-acre parcel of coastal property in Iosco County. With grant and fundraising support, the property will become a public Alabaster Township preserve. The property, just south of Tawas City, includes nearly a mile of natural Lake Huron shoreline, mature hardwood forest and wetland ecosystem. It also promotes local economic and recreational interests: The trailhead and parking area for

the Alabaster Township Bike Path and Arboretum are located on the property’s south side and there is potential for future walking trails and public access to Lake Huron. “This opportunity, to protect a precious shoreline in the heart of a residential and commercial area, is a way to engage the community and its visitors in conservation for decades to come,” Brad Jensen, Executive Director of Huron Pines, said back in January. People participating in any outdoor recreation activity can follow seven simple “Leave No Trace” principles to minimize their own impact on natural resources and ensure a positive experience for all users. These include: • Plan ahead and prepare • Stay on trails and camp in designated areas • Dispose of trash, waste and toilet paper properly • Leave rocks, plants and other objects as you found them • Use existing fire rings and minimize your fire impact • Respect wildlife • Be considerate of other visitors If you’re visiting Northern Michigan, welcome. We’ll see you out there.

Ready … Set … Quack! WEST BRANCH – The West Branch Optimist Club is selling raffle tickets for the popular annual Duck Race fundraiser July 4 after the downtown holiday parade, and before the fireworks begin at dusk! The event will begin at approximately 8 p.m. on the river running through beautiful Irons Park of West Branch – Come join the outdoor fun! Hundreds of brightly colored plastic ducks are numbered and dropped/splashed into the river for their annual trek to raise funds to provide scholarships, services, and programs for children in our schools

and communities. Cash prizes of $100, $50, and $25 go to the first three ducks that cross the final finish line, respectively. In this event, even the last place duck wins a $25 cash prize. Contact one of our West Branch Optimist Club fundraising volunteers out in the community, or come to the Culligan of West Branch office at 2254 W. M-55 in West Branch between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m Monday – Friday before the big race! Tickets are limited! Tickets will also be sold July 4 through the Parade in downtown West Branch the evening of the race – July 4.You do not need to be present to win. For more information contact Vicki Seltz Barnes at 989-312-0886.

- Chris Engle is Communications Associate for Huron Pines, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization based in Gaylord and Alpena to conserve and enhance Northern Michigan’s natural resources to ensure

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Appetizers

Gourmet Pizza

Bread Stix

8-10 Freshly Baked Bread Stix. $4.50 75 cal/piece Stuffed with Pepperoni add $1.75 18 cal/piece Stuffed with Ham add $1.75 5 cal/piece Mozzarella on Top or Inside add $2.50 34 cal/piece Classic Red Pizza Sauce on Side add $1.00 40 cal/serving Aged Cheddar Cheese Sauce add $1.50 35 cal/serving

Spi-Rolls

(Chicken or Pepperoni)

Chicken: Tender all white Chicken, smoky Bacon, melted Cheddar & Mozzarella, spi-rolled up into our own homemade pizza crust. Served with creamy Ranch for dipping. $7.99 89 cal/piece

Cheesy Bread

Pizza Crust Smothered in Garlic, Special Herbs & Mozzarella Cheese. Small 10” $6.49 109 cal/piece Large 14” $11.49 113 cal/piece With Bacon: add $1.00 /Small 13 cal/piece $2.00 /Large 9 cal/piece

Pepperoni: Spicy Pepperoni & melted Mozzarella spi-rolled up into our own homemade pizza crust. Served with our homemade, award winning Classic Red Pizza Sauce for dipping. $7.99 84 cal/piece

GF Chicken Wings 109-132 cal/piece

Garden 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

Patrolman’s Deluxe

Pepperoni, Ham, Mushrooms, Green Pepper, Onions, Ground Beef, Italian Sausage, Bacon & Black Olives. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 237 / 253 / 290 / 300 cal

Sliced Top Round complimented with sliced Portabella Mushrooms, accented with Sweet Red and Green Bell Peppers, Red Onion and Cheddar atop 100% pure Wisconsin Mozzarella & our special Southwest Sauce. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 247 / 271 / 302 / 314 cal

All Meat: Pepperoni, Ham, Ground Beef, Italian Sausage & Bacon. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 234 / 248 / 287 / 296 cal

Taco Pizza

Seasoned Ground Beef, Taco Sauce, Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheeses, Lettuce, Tomato & Black Olives. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 243 / 252 / 286 / 299 cal

PICK THE SIZE

BUILD THE CRUST

Lettuce, Spinach, Your Choice of Tasty Chunks of Chicken Breast or Crispy Chicken, Tomato, Mushroom, Green Pepper, Onions, Mozzarella Cheese & Dressing. Reg 466 cal / Sm 248 cal

The "SARGE" 20” 8 Huge Slices X-Large 16” 12 Slices Large 14” 10 Slices Medium 12” 8 Slices Small 10” 6 Slices Personal 6” 4 Slices Square Deep Dish 12" 12 Slices Classic Crust 71-355 cal Gluten-Free GF Crust 67 cal 10” Only, Additional charge Cauliflower GF Crust 98 cal 12” Only, Additional charge Filled Crust: Cheese 43-57 cal or Pepperoni 23-31 cal

YOUR FAVORITE PIZZA HOME

& BAKE IT IN YOUR OWN OVEN

We build it. You bake it.

Your family loves it. Simple. Available for M 12” & L 14”

Garlic 3-4 cal or Parmesan 9-12 cal Keystone Pizza: Crust on Top & Bottom 71-355 cal

Fresh Spinach leaves, premium Hard Salami, fresh sliced vine-ripened Tomatoes, tasty Greek Kalamata Olives, zesty sliced Pepperoncini on an Olive Oil base with Wisconsin's best Mozzarella, fresh shredded Parmesan, Romano, Asiago and chunks of fresh Feta. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 227 / 249 / 282 / 292 cal

Pizza Margherita

Fresh sliced red ripe Roma Tomatoes and fresh leaf Basil atop a bed of melted Mozzarella- on our famous Classic pizza crust and Red Sauce. Add Feta for additional charge. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 188 / 206 / 234 / 242 cal

Bacon Double Cheeseburger Ground Beef, Bacon, Onions, Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheeses. S 9.99 M 12.49 L 16.95 XL 20.49 233 / 241 / 268 / 278 cal

Flavored Crust:

TAKE

SELECT THE SAUCE

Pizza Margherita

Greek-'Za Mediterranean

Calories listed are per slice

Chicken Salad

Extra Dressings $1.00

Southwest Steak & Portabella

Pepperoni, Ham, Mushrooms, Green Pepper & Onions. S 9.99 M 12.49 L 16.95 XL 20.49 200 / 216 / 256 / 260 cal

Patrolman’s Deluxe

Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Pepperoni, Black Olives, Banana Peppers, Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese & Italian Dressing. Reg 414 cal / Sm 231 cal

OTHER SALADS $7.49 $5.49

Greek-’Za Mediterranean

Carnivore’s Feast

Italian Salad

Ranch 223 cal French 210 cal Bleu Cheese 200 cal Italian 111 cal Greek 220 cal Caesar 230cal Southwest 141 cal Thousand Island 210 cal Low Fat Ranch 70 cal Raspberry Vinaigrette 90 cal TOSSED $5.49 $4.49

The Classics

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

all are

Southwest Steak & Portabella

Patrolman’s Special

Portabella Salad

OUR DRESSINGS Reg: 2 pkts Sm: 1 pkt Calories listed are for each packet. GF

Regular: Small:

Our new “Blue Ribbon” creation! Creamy White Sauce smothered with a blend of five Cheeses, topped with crispy breaded Chicken Breast and succulent Ham. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 240 / 260 / 282 / 296 cal

Build Your Own

Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Onions, Broccoli, Cheddar Cheese & Dressing. Reg 391 cal / Sm 209 cal

Taco Salad

Chicken Cordon Bleu

86-97 cal/piece

Salads Lettuce, Spinach, Tomato, Pepperoni, Ham, Mushroom, Hard-Boiled Egg, Green Pepper, Onions, Mozzarella Cheese & Dressing. Reg 431 cal / Sm 235 cal

Chicken Cordon Bleu

& Boneless Wings

GF Oven-Roasted GF Sweet Heat Bourbon GF Hot Spicy Garlic GF Sweet Chili GF BBQ Zesty Orange Large $13.49 Small $8.49 Dipping Sauces $1.00: Bleu Cheese 200 cal/1.5oz Ranch 547 cal/4oz

Chef’s Super Salad

NEW!

Calories listed are per slice.

all are

Classic Red 5-7 cal Creamy White 48-80 cal Southwest 47-63 cal Zesty BBQ 32-43 cal Spicy Taco 10-13 cal

Chicken Parmazeti

Tasty Chunks of Chicken, Tender Broccoli, Tomato & 3 Cheeses: Mozzarella, Cheddar & Parmesan. Made with our Special White Sauce. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 247 / 263 / 291 / 300 cal

Chicken Bacon Ranch

Chunks of Chicken, Bacon, Ranch Sauce & Mozzarella Cheese. S 10.99 M 13.99 L 18.75 XL 21.99 244 / 265 / 293 / 307 cal

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Tasty Chunks of BBQ Chicken & Mozzarella Cheese. Made with our Zesty BBQ Sauce. S 8.99 M 11.49 L 15.75 XL 18.75 206 / 221 / 249 / 259 cal

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

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

CHOOSE THE TOPPINGS

Pepperoni 25-75 Ham 5-30 Mushrooms 0 Green Peppers 0-5 Red Onions 0-5 Ground Beef 15-50 Italian Sausage 30-85 Black Olives 5-30 Green Olives 10-35

ADDED CAL PER SLICE

Pineapple 4-15 Tomatoes 0-5 Broccoli 0-5 Jalapenos 0-5 Banana Peppers 0-5 *Bacon 15-45 *Anchovies 5-15 *Chicken 5-25 *Fresh Basil 0-5

all are

*Portabellas 0-5 *Feta 20-50 *Red Bell Peppers 0-5 *Spinach 0-5 *Turkey 5-20 *Artichoke Hearts 0-10 *Kalamata Olives 5-30 *Sliced Top Round 10-45 *Swiss Cheese 19-56

SMALL MEDIUM LARGE X-LARGE THE “SARGE" CHEESE ........................................ 6.75 8.80 11.60 14.15 20.25 1.25 1.75 2.00 3.00 EXTRA ITEMS .............................. 1.00 SELECT ITEMS (ADDITIONAL CHARGE) 2.00 2.50 3.50 4.00 6.00 EXTRA CHEESE ........................... 1.50 1.75 2.50 3.00 4.50 CHEESE OR PEPPERONI FILLED CRUST ............................. 2.50 2.75 3.50 4.25 6.00

Ask about special pricing for large orders of 10 or more pizzas.

6” Personal Pizza with up to 3 Toppings: 4.49 / Keystone Pizza: Additional 2.00 per pizza Any side order 1.50 / Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce: 1.00

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

greatest effort is made to provide these products to be free of wheat/gluten ingredients. However, we are not a Gluten Ourgluten-free facility and the possibility of cross-contamination does exist. Therefore, we are unable to guarantee these items to be free of all allergens. Certain products may vary from our suppliers from time to time, and therefore ingredients may vary. Free If you are highly sensitive, we recommend discussing your situation with an owner / manager prior to placing your order.

*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

Pasta

Build-Your-Own Oven-Baked Pasta or Lasagna

2 Red Sauce or Alfredo 3 Choose Any Combination of Pizza Toppings Pasta Noodles or Lasagna Served with Garlic Bread $8.99 plus 75¢ per topping. 687 cal+

Chicken Parmazeti Alfredo Pasta

Mac & Cheese

Cheesy Cheddar Mac ‘n Cheese $8.99 750 cal Delicious Pasta Noodles, Seasoned Chicken, Classic Lasagna $8.99 725 cal Fresh Tomatoes, Broccoli and Cheddar- with Garlic Roll $2.49 493 cal our Creamy Alfredo Sauce. $8.99 829 cal With Cheese add $1.00 172 cal

NEW! Pizza Bowls

Tasty Specialties Pizza Pocket (Calzone)

Keto Bowl: Pepperoni, Ham, Mushrooms, Pizza Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese and your

NEW! Cinnamon Crisp Pizza

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

Cinnamon Spi-Rolls

with Pecans $5.99 110 cal/piece

Cannoli

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

Cinnamon Stix with Icing

Bread Stix with Cinnamon & Icing. $4.50 91 cal/piece

Cookies!We got ‘em- ask for details!

2949

2 LARGE PIZZAS

Save $8.7

23% OFF

WITH UP TO 3 ITEMS EACH

1 ORDER OF BREAD STIX

PIZZARELLI PLEASER

26% OFF

1 LARGE PIZZA

Save $3.

14% OFF

WITH UP TO 5 ITEMS

1 ORDER OF BREAD STIX

LUNCH SPECIAL: TWO 10” PIZZAS ONLY$

13 49

MON-FRI 11AM-2PM WITH 2 ITEMS ON EACH Stuff Bread Stix for additional cost. Add Sauce to Bread Visit www.bc.pizza Stix for $1 each. Extra Cheese and Toppings available ● Order Online (participating locations) at additional cost. Additional cost for Select items on Specials. Not valid on holidays. Excludes Square Deep ● Contact Us Dish Pizzas. Seasonal rates may apply. Prices on this ● Franchise Opportunities menu do not include taxes and are subject to change. Specials and service may vary per location. This restaurant uses tree nuts in some products. Most Locations Feature RELAX and enjoy Ask your guests as Manager WE CATER your For Details next special event.

Pizza & Salad Lunch Buffet

Locally-owned and operated franchise locations ready to provide you with quality products and outstanding service at affordable prices. 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 st & Frien 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 E LOWELL 1335 W. MAIN ST 616-897-9776 LIVER 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

V200310

What’s NEW! At B.C.?

CAULIFLOWER PIZZA CRUST Rich in authentic Italian flavor, this gluten-free masterpiece blends real cauliflower with quality ingredients for a premium crust experience.

Also consider these other selections that can help you stay on-track with your dietary preferences... Our own original GLUTEN FREE PIZZA CRUST paired with GF sauce & toppings

GLUTEN-FREE PIZZA BOWLS including a KETO-FRIENDLY option

GLUTEN FREE GRINDER

GLUTEN-FREE SALADS & DRESSINGS

CE 19 N

Desserts

2 ORDERS OF BREAD STIX

FAMILY PLEASER

.81

Save $12

WITH UP TO 3 ITEMS EACH

dly

choice of up to 5 Items. $8.49 803-1363 cal Wet Burrito $7.99 Beef: 1078 cal or Chicken: 993 cal Nachos Supreme $7.99 Beef: 1247 cal or Chicken: 1162 cal Quesadilla $7.49 Steak: 675 cal or Chicken: 687 cal

3649

2 X-LARGE PIZZAS

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+

Pick your perfect Pleaser... Additional cost for “Select” items. PARTY PLEASER

Enjoy your Sub on a White or Wheat* Italian Roll, or as a Wrap, Oven-Baked Grinder, or Gluten-Free Grinder** GF (Additional Charge).

PAID

EDDM Retail

Oven-Baked Grinder

Local Postal Customer

Subs, Grinders & Wraps

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S.POSTAGE

YEARS

No matter which delicious product you choose, you can be assured you’re getting the freshest, highest quality meats, cheeses and vegetables possible.

www.bc.pizza

Our pets are part of our lives View From the Comfy Chair By Joel Vernier As I was enjoying a midafternoon nap, I felt a warm tropical wind on my face, almost hot, pulsing against my face. My mind began to drift off to Hawaii. The times I have vacationed on the beaches of this tropical paradise, and then I noticed an odor. I could not identify the smell as I retained my focus on the beach. Then I visualized a large dead whale floating in from the sea. The odor became stronger and stronger, rolling in, pulsing again and again. I began to wake up due to the smell that brought me back to consciousness. As I opened my eyes, I could still feel the pulsing wind, and the order was evident. Fully awake, I looked up at my dog Charlie Boy, with his paws on my "Comfy Chair" and his head a few inches away from my head, and he was panting in my face! So much for a tropical breeze. I petted him and slowly moved him away so I could stand up. I looked at the clock, and sure enough, it was that magical time: "Dinner Time!"

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July 2021

The sound of those words elicits a burst of energy, happiness, and drooling that makes everyone take notice. You don't want to stand between my dogs and their bowl, OSHA rules in my house. They happily engulf the food, wagging tails, happiness in a bowl, kind of like me with a hot fudge Sunday! As I turned to go back into the family room, I was alerted to another crisis, my cat was hungry! When Kitty is ready to eat, she begins to meow loudly, constantly, and obnoxiously until her bowl is filled with the smelly yucky food she loves. The wife was out with her girlfriends, and I was on my own for dinner. I opened the refrigerator, and my mind immediately shifted to when we had guinea pigs. When you open the fridge door for any reason, lovable Guinea pigs begin squealing at the top of their lungs in the hopes that you will bring them some lettuce or a carrot. The noise is quite impressive and will entertain guests, especially if they have indulged in an adult beverage. I thought back at all the pets I have had in my life, white rats, gerbils, hamsters, fish, horses, birds, and began to realize that I have spent a significant amount of my time feeding, cleaning, petting, and just spending time with my pets. For those that have had an aquarium, it takes a lot more than

UpNorthVoice.com

placing a few flakes of fish food in the water. Balancing the chemicals, taking out a third of the water weekly and replacing it with fresh water. Cleaning the algae off the tank. I had a turtle when I was very young; like the fish, he was quiet. The realization that my pets have taken a lot of time and care is minimized by the amount of joy, fun, exercise, and peaceful moments that I have spent with them. Pets add life to a home. They can add love, companionship and enhance one's life. Yep, they can be a lot of work, but in my opinion, they are worth all of that and more.

Pictured (l-r) are Jean and Chuck Manning from Hillman, and Rob and Mary Ann Boynton of Alpena.

Sudoku sponsored by:

Pictured (l-r) are Joel and Isiah Wilson, Fred Perrin, Darryl Babbitt and Adam Malone, all of Grayling. GOLF OUTING – The Grayling Lions Club held its annual golf outing at the Grayling Country Club June 19. The four-person scramble is a fundraiser for the club. All proceeds from the event are invested back into the community. Pictured are some of the participants.

Above: Taking payments and selling tickets inside the clubhouse were Wendy Stewart (left) and Clairene Jorella. Left: Pictured (l-r) are Phil Ackley of Houghton Lake, Ken Bolender of Jackson, Grayling Lions Club President Craig Stewart, and Jeff Keister of West Branch.

See answer on page 5

- Photos by Mark Constance

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July 2021

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July senior news Oscoda Senior News By Suzanne Barker Happy July 4! I know most of us are used to it since we live in Michigan, but last month certainly felt like we went from winter to summer overnight. Now moving into July, the heat is likely to continue so make sure you are drinking plenty of water and not staying out in the hot sun too long. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke can take you by surprise if you are not careful. Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, take your walks or do your gardening in the early morning hours or in the evening when the sun is not as hot. If you are feeling weak or faint, have a weak but fast pulse or heart rate, are sweating heavily, feel nauseous, or have cold clammy skin. These are signs of heat exhaustion. Find some shade or go inside and be in the air conditioning or sit in front of a fan. Remove a layer of clothing and drink some water. Anything you can do to help your body cool down. If you feel your body temperature is elevated, you have a rapid strong pulse or heart rate, feel foggy, or begin to vomit, these are signs of

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July 2021

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heat stroke, and you should get medical help immediately. Food drops happening this month are • Together We Can Food Pantry on July 8 and 22 at the Oscoda County Fairgrounds. from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Please note if they run out of food before 3:30 p.m. they may be gone early. • CSFP (senior cheese box) will be on July 20 from 10-11 a.m. at the Oscoda County Fairgrounds. The council’s monthly board meeting is July 12 at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. If you live in Oscoda County are age 60 to 64 and need a ride to get some errands done in town, give the council a call. The Council on Aging will pay for one free 1-hour ride per month with OCATS for county residents. We are looking forward to being able to do more and have more activities at the center with the restrictions being lifted. However, please remember we must wait for guidance from the AASA before we can change things. We will continue to get the word out as more things begin to be planned. Have a wonderful month and do not forget to smile at least once a day. Pass a smile on to someone else too, it just might change up their day! - Barker is director of the Oscoda County Council on Aging and can be reached at 989-826-3025.

Surgeon Talk

Five surgeons were talking about the best patients... First surgeon says, "Accountants are the best to operate on because when you open them up, everything on the inside is numbered." Second surgeon says, "Nah librarians are the best. Everything inside them is in alphabetical order." Third surgeon responds, "Try electricians, man! Everything inside them is color coded!" Fourth surgeon intercedes," I prefer lawyers.They're heartless, spineless, gutless, and their heads and butts are interchangeable." To which the fifth surgeon, who has been quietly listening to the conversation, says, "I like engineers. They always understand when you have a few parts left over at the end."

A funny story A man had a bunch of penguins in his truck, when suddenly a police officer came and asked him what was in the truck, the man said "My penguins," The police said to take the penguins to the zoo. The next day, the police officer came back asking where the penguins were. The man said, "They're in my truck. The police officer replied, "I thought I told you to take them to the zoo," "I did," replied the man, ''Today I'm taking them to the beach."

Why did the tomato blush? Because it saw the salad dressing. What do dentists call X-rays? Tooth pics. Did you hear about the first restaurant to open on the moon? It had great food, but no atmosphere. When does a joke become a “dad” joke? When the punchline is apparent. What did the paper say to the pencil? Write on!

Storks

Two storks are sitting in their nest: a father stork and baby stork. The baby stork is crying and crying and father stork is trying to calm him. "Don't worry, son. Your mother will come back. She's only bringing people babies and making them happy." The next night, it's father's turn to do the job. Mother and son are sitting in the nest, the baby stork is crying, and mother is saying "Son, your father will be back as soon as possible, but now he's bringing joy to new mommies and daddies." A few days later, the stork's parents are desperate: their son is absent from the nest all night! Shortly before dawn, he returns and the parents ask him where he's been all night. The baby stork says, "Nowhere. Just scaring the heck out of college students!"

HIGGINS BUSINESS – The Higgins Lake Market has new owners and opened for business on Memorial Weekend. Co-owners (l-r) Scott Dolan, Linda Popp and Tyler James plan to continue the market’s tradition of fresh-baked goods, including bread, pastries, and donuts. They will also feature a wide selection of fresh lunchmeats, as well

as hand-cut steaks. Higgins Lake Market is located at 4541 West Higgins Lake Drive in Higgins Lake. They are open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 989821-6444.

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Back in time for the 4th Toad's Stool

By Warren Stutesman Hello once again my friends and a happy July. It has been a long time since last we met, but what better time to get reacquainted than the month of our countries Independence Celebration. I know of people that do not know the reason we celebrate Independence Day on the fourth of July, reasoning that it is just an arbitrary day we chose to use. Following is a quick bit of history: • Independence Day commemorates the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. • On July 8, 1776 the first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia's Independence Square to the ringing of bells and band music. • One year later, on July 4, 1777, Philadelphia marked Independence Day by adjourning Congress and celebrating with bonfires, bells and fireworks. And this tradition continues to this day.

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I am planning to spend some time with family at our annual Stutesman Reunion to celebrate the continuation of our great country. I would ask that you please use fireworks responsibly. Nothing could ruin a holiday more than a personal injury or fire. My wife, Kim, and I took a day trip to the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge last month. We packed a picnic lunch and made a day of it. We picnicked in the car as we watched the wildlife because getting out tends to scare the birds. The water levels were down a bit, but we still had a nice time watching the birds. We started out seeing a few Yellow Warblers which is always a treat. Once we got to the flooded part we saw a lot of Coots, White Pelicans and two Black Crowned Night Herons among several types of ducks some geese and lots of herons and egrets. My birds at home have been busy keeping the yard free of ticks and

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other bugs. We have had a couple ticks only this year but the wave of Gypsy Moths have more than made up for them. I know that a lot of people wanted to be sprayed to stop the Gypsy Moths but I for one am against that method of control. We have several birds that can and do eat them. Cuckoos, Blue Jays and Eastern Towhees are just a few. Also, my sister’s chickens are eating them as fast as they drop from the trees. I have also watched the Cow Birds and Starlings eating them in my yard. Many of you know that I was hospitalized with Covid for a while. I have gotten better and have stopped using oxygen regularly but still have a long way to get back to where I was physically. I wish to thank all of you that prayed for my recovery. It’s only through God’s grace that I made it home. That's all for this month. I hope that we all have a safe holiday and remember to please help keep our woods and water clean.

Mio’s Kittle Road Area Shopping A Sample of Oscoda County Amish Businesses 7

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1. Country Corners Bulk Food - Cheese, Cooking, Food, Baking Supplies, Candy, Home Remedies. 1284 W. Kittle Rd. (989) 826-6063. 2. Natures Beauty Rustic Furniture - Handcrafted custom made home furnishings, large and small. True beauty in wood. 860 E. Kneeland Rd. (989) 848-2806. 3. Country Feed Supply - Animal feed for large and small animals, enclosures. Pet supplies, etc. 389 W. Kittle Rd. (989) 826-2305. 4. Highland Building Center - Full-service lumber yard with your favorite tools to in stock. 693 E. Kittle Road. (989) 848-8000. 5. The Farm Kitchen - Fresh baked goods, goodies with a deli that can make your favorite sandwich. Also, sell dairy products, grass feed meats, home décor and ice cream! 50 W. Kittle Rd. (989) 826-8666. 6. North Star Storage Barns - Custom buildings, many to choose from. 98 N. Mt. Tom Rd. (989) 826-1000. 7. Echo Ridge Fabrics - Fabrics, notions, Amish clothing (infant to adult), toys games, art/craft supplies and home décor. 1734 N. Galbraith Rd. (989) 826-1913.

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8. Sensenig’s Repair - Lawn, garden equipment sales and service. 432 E. Kittle Rd. (989) 848-8346. 9 Sweet Success Sugarbush - Maple syrup goods. 1442 N. Galbraith Rd. (989) 826-3160. 10. The Pioneer Store - Not just your average hardware and home store. 432 N. Mt. Tom Rd. (989) 826-3580. 11 Blue Jay Valley Greenhouse & Nursery - Full service greenhouse and nursery with all the extras including custom planters. 1300 N. Perry Creek Rd. (989) 848-7337. 12 J & B Enterprise Leather Goods & Harness Supplies - Custom leather goods (purses, wallets, belts and speciality items) along with pet & farrier supplies. 331 N. Mount Tom Rd. (989) 826-8024. 13 Greasy Steve's Repair & Fabrications - Metal and fabrication repairs, custom work. 203 E. Kittle Rd. (989) 848-8278. 14 Shady Lake Footwear & Oak Hill Furniture Footwear for the entire family and Handcrafted solid wood furniture, with full line of weather resistant wood and poly outdoor furniture. 68 E. Kneeland Rd. (989) 848-8265.

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Bluegill Festival brings

Jewel Zavitz of Prudenville prepares to launch a throw in from left field.

ST. HELEN – Hundreds of people came to St. Helen June 17-19 for the Annual Bluegill Festival at the Richfield Township Park. Events included a carnival midway, softball battle between the students and teachers, parade, food and more. Although it rained part of the weekend, it didn’t put too much of a damper on the festivities. For information on the 2022 Bluegill Festival contact Festival President Herb Tyson, or any committee member on Facebook.

Char Mynarcik (left) and Paula Sheffield worked taking tickets at the gate of the pavilion.

Rosalyn Williams of Roscommon and Deanna Beery burlap sacks.

- Photos by Mark Constance Right: Joei Stephaniak of St. Helen rides the green truck at the Bluegill Festival.

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

Walking to the softball game were (l-r) Nathaniel De DeSnyder, Jr., Jordyn DeSnyder and Gabe DeSnyde

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s crowd to St. Helen

It takes many volunteers to make a festival run. Ashley Kreft (left) and Ginger Strasberg of St. Helen tended bar on the opening evening.

y of St. Helen have fun coming down the slide on

eSnyder, Felicity Kimball, Abbie Kimball, Nathaniel er.

Dylan Sharrow of St. Helen pitched the opening softball game at the Bluegill festival.

Diane Arnold of St. Helen takes a ride on the min-trucks.

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Retired with a working TV Home Country By Slim Randles Ran into Herb Collins the other day down by the school. He volunteers there, from time to time, helping kids with their math homework, and trying to recruit future members of The Great World of Business. He loved business, back in the days when he lived in the city and ran the pawn shop. For years now, ever since he hung up his jeweler’s loupe, he’s told us that there was an excitement to making the right deal. “It has to be right for the customer and for me, or it isn’t right at all,” Herb always says. “You can do that and make several people happy and earn a living. There’s no need to take unfair advantage of someone just to earn a living.” Our little town is a bit tame after

city life, but it’s Herb’s wife’s home town and she wanted to come back here to live after he retired. So Herb turned to helping kids understand how wonderful business can be. He’s advised kids on the most effective way of delivering newspapers on their bicycles, he’s suggested advertising gimmicks for kids with summer lemonade stands, and he’s helped several boys market their skills with a lawn mower. You can take the man out of the business, I guess, but it’s hard to take the business out of the man. So after the shaking hands and the how-are-yous, we talked about kids and business, and the new crop of youngsters coming up this year. I couldn’t help thinking ol’ Herb might jump at the chance to dive back in the world of commerce again, but he disabused me of that right away. “All through with that,” he said, shaking his head. “I was a successful businessman and now I’m successfully retired.” Successfully retired? “That’s right,” he grinned. “I have a wife and a television set, and they both work.”

SHOP LOCAL!

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ART SCHOLARSHIP – The Carman Cougar Charity Palmer Arts Scholarships (for excellence in Art, Music & Drama) was continued again this year by Kristi Major of Hale as a legacy of her mom, Patty Palmer. Like past recipients, this years winners have proven a commitment to the arts, their community and their future. 2021 winners are Ms. Zakaria Brame and Mr. Darwin Bostwick.

Support our local businesses

Darwin Bostwick

Zakaria Brame

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INTERIM DIRECTOR – The Roscommon County Commission Aging hired Betty Kimble as its interim director June 23. Kimble (left) is pictured with Patti Ososki, who was recently hired as the commission's human resource director. Kimble was named interim after the departure of former director, Tom Petitt. During his tenure with the commission, Pettit oversaw the passage of a county-wide senior millage, the remodeling of the Houghton Lake Senior Center, and the establishment of Serenity Day Lodge, the region's first independent facility dedicated to the support of caregivers. Serenity Lodge provides a safe place where family members with dementia or serious physical ailments can stay for the day. Ososki is originally from Flint, but has lived and worked in the Roscommon and Grayling area since 1986. She was formerly the human resource director at Lear in Roscommon. Her educational experience includes three associate degrees and a bachelor and master degree from Baker College in Flint.

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MAYOR VISITS CONSTITUENTS – The unofficial “Mayor” of Higgins Lake was out and about on Saturday, stopping in at the Higgins Lake Market for a visit. The ‘Mayor,’ also known as Wade, is owned by Patrick and Donna Clemens. The “Mayor” is pictured with Gerrish Township Officer Nathan Socia and a copy of the Up North Voice / Higgins Lake poster promoting the businesses around the lake.

- Photo by Tracy Constance

SHOP LOCAL!

Season wrap up: Hale girls win first ever district title By Greg Gielczyk

HALE - Few would have predicted before the season began that the Hale girl’s softball team possessed the numbers, never mind the talent, to accomplish any kind of success this spring. Let alone do something no Eagles team had ever done before. Not in 46 years. Or since 1975, when the Michigan High School Athletic Association started the girl’s softball tournament. The Eagles won a district softball title. The Eagles had just four seniors, and one of them spent most of the season quarantined at home because of COVID-19 issues; One junior who hadn’t played very much; and a bunch of sophomores who were just starting their high school careers. With so many new and inexperienced girls filling starting roles, the Eagles understandably had some difficulty putting things together. "It's probably the most interesting one I've ever had," Head Coach Ralph Cadwell said. "I felt like I was doing Little League again. To watch them develop and come along was a great feeling. "After three games, one of them even asked me 'What are balls and strikes?' Really. We had base running mistakes. Until they finally figured it

out, and it clicked." But the Eagles had it figured out long before the districts, smashing 15 base hits in the title game against Augres-Sims en route to a whopping 16-3 victory. Earlier in the regular season Augres-Sims had beaten the Eagles four straight times, all by more than 10 runs. This time, the Eagles did the blasting. Morgan Vance and Shailey Brandt were the hitting leaders for the Eagles, each knocking out three safeties. Dalaney Kimmerer, Claudia Cadwell (the coach's daughter) and Erica Hewitt stroked out two hits apiece, while Abby Parkinson, Skyler Lauria and Bailey Hewitt each had one. Vance was the Eagles' shortstop, and she had the game of her life in the finals, showing incredible range in getting to anything hit near her. She made all the stops, and all the throws. She also was 5-for-5 at the plate in a 9-7 win over Mio earlier in the day. Parkinson had three hits. Cadwell had nine strike outs. Cadwell did most of the pitching this year and threw both games in the districts. She struck out four against Augres-Sims. When she wasn't pitching, Cadwell was behind the plate as a catcher, or played shortstop. She could play any position and finished

Members of the Hale High School District Championship team include: (third from left, l-r) Laken Caverly, freshman, Felicity Hicks, freshman, Erica Bernard, freshman) Abigail Parkinson, junior, Bailey Hewitt, sophomore, Skyler Lauria, junior, Dalaney Kimmerer, sophomore, (front) Seniors Shailey Brandt, Morgan Vance, and Claudia Cadwell.

the season with a .990 fielding average. Vance, meanwhile, was a solid defender as well, with a .900 fielding percentage. As a hitter, Vance had no peers, batting 20 percent higher than Cadwell. Both hit home runs. Cadwell led in doubles, while Vance led in triples and singles ... but not by much. Vance was tops on the team in stolen bases and stole home three or four times. Leadership was also on their plate. "They took it on themselves to teach the younger girls, because they wanted to win," the coach said. "Vance was my best catcher, third baseman, center fielder, period. "Claudia was the best pitcher, shortstop and first base. But, she could play all the other ones, too. They kind of stepped up. I think it

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helped a lot, them working with those girls. It made a big difference." Because he had so many inexperienced girls Cadwell found that they had a difficult time hitting the ball in practice, so he slowed it down. Once they got their hitting shoes broken in, Cadwell gradually sped things up, eventually ramping things up until the Eagles were hitting balls thrown at 55 miles per hour. The girls the Eagles faced in the districts were throwing hard and fast, and Hale wound up belting the ball all around the field, and pushing runs across. "That's how far the girls came," Cadwell said. "I think we really turned it around in a 5-3 loss to Rogers City. It all just kind of clicked." ▪ Continue reading at UpNorthVoice.com

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Season recap: Mio boys win district title By Greg Gielczyk

MIO – Down by four runs at the end of the first inning of the Division 4 district championship game at AuGres, it was clear the Mio baseball team needed to dig deep and find the resolve to shake off the bad start and make a comeback. Working in the Thunderbolts' favor was the fact that it was early in the game, and they had plenty of time to erase the deficit and bring home the title. That is exactly what they did. Hale's red-hot start fizzled when Thunderbolts' head coach Fox changed pitchers, and the Eagles would fail to put another run across the rest of the game. Mio scored two runs in the top of the second, and then didn't score again until it notched a single run in the sixth to make it a one-run game. With the score tied, 4-4 and the Thunderbolts batting in the top of the sixth, Jacob Bones got his bat around for a run-scoring single to give Mio a 5-4 lead. Bones also earned the win on the hill, coming in to relieve starter Tyler Demory who went one and one-third innings, allowing four runs on three hits and strike out two. Bones gave up just one hit and struck out 13 over five and two-third innings. Mio advanced to the regional final

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with a 10-0 victory over WhittemorePrescott, before falling, 14-4 to Valley Lutheran. "We had no seniors this year, so the leaders were pretty young," Fox said. "Heck, I had kids this was their second year playing baseball. "They played baseball their freshman year and didn't get their sophomore year (because of COVID). It hit me one day just how raw we were when our leftfielder told one of my coaches that it was his second year playing baseball. "But they were real coachable kids and that helped out a lot. They come from good families. It was a blessing, really." Mio was not only young, and sort of learning the ropes on the run, but Fox had been named the coach late in the game and didn't get a chance to work with the players much before the season started. The former coach resigned just one month before the season was scheduled to start. But it all came together for a championship season. "I knew them (the players) from Little League, and coaching them in previous sports, like basketball and football," Fox said. "Which was a good thing. "When I stepped in, they had respect for me. We worked well together. I give them a little freedom,

Back row: Gage Long, Lewis Kuffel, Coach Trevor Pellegrini, Coach Calvin Fox, Austin LaFleche, Dallas Long. Middle Row: Jacob Bones, Charlie Lashley, Brandon Wiltse, Tyler Demory, Hunter Perez, Kaden Wright, Kolton Peters, Roch Smith, Shannon Rubago. Front Row: Austin Fox, Alex Hager, Connor Benefiel, Seth Spahn. Not pictured: Chance Kamen and Coaches Lonnie Hager, Mike Kamen.

if they play within themselves. "Just being young, we made a few errors. When it came to the regional games, they outpitched and out-hit us. But it was great for our team moving forward." Bones, a junior pitcher and shortstop, was one of those leaders. He was the pacesetter on offense with a robust .414 batting average with two home runs, nine doubles, two triples and 24 runs batted in. Demory (pitcher/shortstop) drove in 16 runs, scored 21 runs, and had one double and one triple on his .462 batting average. Lewis Kuffel, the starting catcher, hit .295 for the season with 17 RBIs, 17 runs scored and five doubles. "Kuffle has been around baseball his whole life," Fox said. "He called

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pitches all season. I would guide him when he came into the dugout on maybe inside-outside, high-low. "A pitcher had maybe struggled to hit his curve ball or something. We would have little conferences between innings. I had confidence in him. He also has a really good arm." Austin Fox was second on the team with 13 RBIs, had three doubles and scored 18 runs while batting .302. Gage Long drove in 11 runs and scored 15 with four doubles and a triple on a .320 BA. Bones was the Thunderbolts' leading pitcher as well, going 8-1 with two saves and had a 3.15 earned run average with 108 strike outs and just 39 walks in 51 innings pitched. ▪ Continue reading at UpNorthVoice.com

ROTARY HONOREES – The Roscommon Rotary Club held its “Pass the Gavel” event where the outgoing president welcomes the new leader. President for the 202122 season is Jackie Bertsch, who replaces Allison Nester. The club meets Thursdays at noon for lunch at Fred’s of Roscommon. Watch for more photos at UpNorthVoice.com.

- Photos by Tracy Constance Left: John and Sue Hartman were honored with Paul Harris Fellowship Award for their community efforts over the years. Sue (front) is pictured with her son, Wade, and his wife Nickie.

It isn’t very often you get two Paul Harris Fellowship Award Winners in the same family photo, but here you go. Pictured (l-r) are Rick Fair, Amanda Witt, Abigale Witt, Steve Witt, Travis Witt, Laura Witt, Jim Witt, and Mary Jo Fair. Steve was this year’s honoree, serving as president in the 2019-20 season. Jim is a past Rotary president and won the award several years ago.

Tuttle Marsh work begins

IOSCO COUNTY - The US Forest Service and its partners, Huron Pines and the Iosco County Road Commission, will be performing work at Tuttle Marsh from June through October of 2021. This work includes deferred maintenance on roads and culverts, mowing to keep the view open, treating non-native invasive species (NNIS) with cutting, mowing and the hand pulling of NNIS in and adjacent to Tuttle Marsh. The NNIS being removed include Phragmites, purple loose strife and reed canary grass. While visiting the area this

summer, visitors may see contractors and equipment performing this valuable work. These efforts will benefit the public who come to visit and enjoy Tuttle Marsh and will improve the habitat for native species who call Tuttle Marsh home. For more information on this project contact East Zone Ecologist Jennifer Falkey at 989-739-0728.

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