Up North Voice - September 2023

Michigan Firemen's Memorial Festival

See pages 15-22!

Out and About: 3

Eagle Voice: 5

West Branch Art auction: 6

Showcasing Ogemaw 10

First Dam in Mio: 11

Fireman's in Rosco: 15-22

Grayling's McClain

honored: 23

Hale / Ogemaw Fairs: 28

Laughing Buck: 34

Fairview Relief Sale: 36

Festival kicks off with family night

ROSCOMMON- The 44th annual Fireman’s Memorial Festival is back for all to enjoy Sept. 14- 17. The event begins with Family Night on Thursday with free hot dogs, firefighting demonstrations, and presentations from 4- 8 p.m.

Bring your dancing shoes to the Big Red Barn Friday evening from 8 p.m. – midnight! Must be 21 with I.D.

The Memorial Services with take place at the statue site on Robinson Lake Rd. at 9 a.m. Saturday, followed by the parade. Be sure to take advantage of all the activities offered including bounce houses, ▪ See MEMORIAL FESTIVAL on page 2

Chad Patterson: The man with the microphone

By Donna Thoma GRAYLING

– Grayling

residents, current and former students, sports fans, canoe racers and “Shiglettes” are familiar with the exuberant, jovial, booming voice of Chad Patterson piercing the air. Patterson, with his signature microphone in hand, may be an MC for an event, directing students in a high school play or his improv group, doing a football play by play, or your morning DJ on “Chatterson's Q100 Wake Up Call.”

Patterson, in an attempt to find “how I fit in” with step siblings, as well as make people laugh, began joking and directing the spotlight towards himself, as a way to “deflect the bad things” by entertaining. Comedy and improv gave him “the good attention” he desired.

Patterson moved to Leslie, Michigan to live with his father and attended high school. This proved to be the “change he needed to focus

his energy.” It was there that he met his best friend, Troy Mackinder*. Mackinder and Patterson played football for Leslie. Mackinder was always encouraging Patterson to try out for school plays. Watching his first musical, Bye Bye Birdie with Mackinder's performance as Conrad Birdie, presented Patterson with a different viewpoint, that he too could perform on stage.

Following graduation from Leslie High School, Patterson went on to attend Lansing Community College, where he pursued his love for theater, performing in plays and doing stand-up comedy.

Patterson met his wife, Lori, through mutual friends. They married in 1996 and she acquired an elementary teaching position at Grayling Schools.

Moving to Grayling from the Lansing area was quite a change for Patterson. He held a variety of jobs, Grayling Restaurant and

Glen's Market. At Glen's Market, he was the only male cashier at the time. One day a fellow employee approached Patterson asking, “are you an actor”. Patterson told her he had performed in plays in college. The employee gave him a copy of a local ad paper, with an advertisement for a “Teaching Artist for a Theater Company.”

Patterson applied for the position, with the “Acting Up Theater Company” through Kirtland Community College and was subsequently hired. Thinking at the time, “even if this is only just nine weeks, and I never have anything else to do with it again, it will be something different.” Patterson had no construction or technical knowledge at the time, and credits Kurt Thoma and Natasha McKeon, former owners of Acting Up Theater, with guiding him to learn those ▪ See CHAD PATTERSON

Chad Patterson (left with microphone) teaching an improv class.

Doug Dalman and Sean Casey competing in the Mio “First Dam” Canoe Challenge. See page 11 for story and photos.

~ Photo Courtesy of Crystal Brabant

Letter to the Editor

Is sewer project in Higgins justified?

Efforts to do an end run around Higgins Lake residents and compel a new community sewer system without a public referendum have been given a major setback. The Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council, an established and respected nonprofit organization, is completing its review of the claims by the Gerrish Lyon Utility Authority (GLUA) and are concluding that the "science" used to justify the $100M+ sewer project is problematic. This was recently disclosed in a preliminary report.

This review of the published information relied on by GLUA was commissioned by the Higgins Lake Land Conservancy as a way of judging the validity of claims by STEP sewer advocates that private septic systems are primarily to blame for what they believe is significant lake pollution. This report concludes that the case for this is not scientifically substantiated as GLUA represents it.

The principle argument made by GLUA and supporters is that private septic systems in the Higgins Lake

watershed are the primary and most important cause of "lake pollution". The Tip preliminary report questions not only the degree of pollution on the lake, but the GLUA contention that private septic systems are the primary culprits. Given this new information, it becomes difficult to understand how state grants or bonds could be forthcoming to finance the project. Local citizens around the lake have been asking for a vote on this decision, but GLUA and township officials have pressed on under the technicalities of state law 188 to prevent a public vote on this huge infrastructure project.

Among the aggravating factors involved in this campaign is the contention that large lakefront homes will only have to pay the same amount of long-term debt and operational fees that someone in a cabin a half mile from the lake would. Some locals believe that the more affluent supporters of the community sewer system are financing this project by requiring less well-off citizens

to subsidize them. A local group known as Higgins Lake United (higginslakeunited.org ) has been arguing to let citizens vote on this issue, but are a David, not a Goliath, when it comes to the costs of advocacy. HLU supporters believe that a community septic system will lead to the urbanization of the Higgins Lake region.

Thus far, GLUA applications for state grants have been denied because the sewer project has consistently scored too low for funding priority. Meanwhile, a private septic system ordinance is being worked on by the Lyon Township supervisor, Larry Maduri, to inventory and improve private systems in the lake watershed area. The GLUA group has so far ignored the Tip of the Mitt report and is pressing on with a signature petition drive to reach a number that keeps people from having a vote. Opponents to the STEP campaign are not going away.

'BACK 2 SCHOOL BASH' –

The

2 School Bash” Sat. Aug 26. The event led with a short sermon for the children followed by bounce houses, free lunch, free school supplies, and free haircuts for all the kids!

AuSable Media encourages all readers with a connection to the community to submit letters to the editor for possible publication.

Please limit letters to 300 words. Author must include a daytime contact number.

Letters are the individual opinion of 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: alicia@UpNorthVoice.com, mail to P.O. Box 113, Roscommon, MI 48653, or stop by the office at 709 Lake Street in Roscommon.

Tracy Constance Tracy@UpNorthVoice.com M: 419.236.0359

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

Micheala Wade Distribution

Warren Stutesman Reporter wstutesman@gmail.com

Donna Thoma Writer donnathoma0@ gmail.com

Phillip Robinson Higgins Lake

Pastor Kristy Mills leading the kids dancing at the “Back 2 School Bash”.

Beacon Assembly of God in Roscommon hosted a “Back

~ Photos by Alicia Noragon

Lincoln DeMars getting his back-toschool style at the Beacon Assembly of God in Roscommon.

FARMERS' MARKETS:

Wed: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.- Northeast

Michigan Regional Farm Market-

4440 US-23, Oscoda

Wed: 1:30- 5:30 p.m.- Ogemaw

East Branch Library Farmers Market- 220 Washington St, Prescott

Thurs: 2 – 6 p.m.- Grayling

Farmers Market- 213 N. James Street, Grayling

Fri: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.- Houghton

Lake Farmers Market- 1681 W. Houghton Lake Dr, Prudenville

Fri: 2 – 6 p.m.- Standish

Farmers Market- 107 N Main St,

Standish

Sat: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.- West

Branch Farmers Market- S 3rd Street, West Branch

Sat: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Sunrise Side

Family Market- AuSable Township

Parking Lot

Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Gladwin

Farmers Market- 200 N State St,

Gladwin

Sat: 10a.m.- 3 p.m.- Roscommon

Village Market- AuSable River Center, 211 South Main, Roscommon

Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Plainfield

Township Farmers Market- 220

West Washington, Hale

Sat: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Arenac

Conservation District Farmers Market-107 N Main Street, Standish

Sat: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.- Northeast

Michigan Regional Farm Market815 W. Lake Street, Tawas City

CRAWFORD COUNTY: Grayling, Frederic, Lovells

6 – Council on Aging Walk in the Woods- Wellington Farm Park -10am

Out & About - September 2023

7 – Soup Taste Testing

Lunch- Crawford County COA11:30am-12:30pm-The cost of the lunch is $6.50 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older.

8 – Memorabilia and History

Team- Crawford County COA10am- 11am

10 – Great Northern Art Explosion Awards CeremonyAuSable Artisan Village- for more info call: 989-745-6096

11 – SLEEP Education for Everyone Program- 3pm Crawford County COA

13 – Council on Aging Walk in the Woods- Rayburn Property - M72 Side -10am

14 – Grandparents

Dinner- Crawford County COA

4:30pm-6pm- The cost of the dinner is $6.50 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older.

18 – SLEEP Education for Everyone Program- 3pm Crawford County COA

20 – Council on Aging Walk in the Woods- Milock Family Preserve -10am

21 – Picnic Lunch at Hansen Hills-11:30am-12:30pm-The cost is $6.50 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older.

25 – SLEEP Education for Everyone Program- 3pm Crawford County COA

26 – Birthday Lunch11:30am-12:30pm- Crawford County COA

26 – AARP Safer Driving-

12:30-4:30pm- 308 Lawndale

Street-Cost of the course is $20 for AARP members and $25 for nonmembers (all course materials are included in the cost). Participants need to bring their valid Michigan driver’s license and AARP card if they have one. Come early to join us for lunch from 11:30 to 12:30. The cost of lunch is $6.50 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older. Please call the Commission on Aging at (989) 348-7123 to register.

27 – AARP Safer Driving12:30-4:30pm- 308 Lawndale

Memorial Festival

Continued from page 1 trolley rides, antique fire trucks, delicious food trucks and more!

The Higgins Township Police will be providing a Pancake Breakfast on Sunday beginning at 8 a.m. until the flap jacks are gone!

See pages 15-22 for more details.

Street-Cost of the course is $20 for AARP members and $25 for nonmembers (all course materials are included in the cost). Participants need to bring their valid Michigan driver’s license and AARP card if they have one. Come early to join us for lunch from 11:30 to 12:30. The cost of lunch is $6.50 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older. Please call the Commission on Aging at (989) 348-7123 to register.

27 – Council on Aging Walk in the Woods- Hartwick Pines -10am

28 – Special Breakfast

Presentation – 9:00am - Vaccines and Immunizations for the Older People. Crawford County COA

29 – Vaccination Clinic – 2:304:30pm- The DHD#10, Crawford Office and the Crawford County Commission on Aging will be hosting Covid and Flu Shot Clinics at 308 Lawndale Street.

Crawford County Extras

Mon-Fri- Council on Aging

Lunch- 11a.m.-12 p.m.

Mon-Fri- Council on Aging

Dinner- 4:30-5:30 p.m.

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

Tues- Diamond Dancers – 6 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 7:30pm, MI Brew

Tues- Diamond Dancers – 6 p.m.

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- Pickleball 9-11 a.m.

Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers

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

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

Tues & Thurs- Zumba Gold

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

Tues & Thurs- Walk off the Winter Blues- Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

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

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

1st Tue- Friends of a Feather- 9 a.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging

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

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

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

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

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY:

Roscommon, Higgins Lake, Prudenville, Houghton Lake, St. Helen

9 – Fish Fry Fundraiser1-4pm- The Cove Park Pavilions- for tickets contact either The Minnow

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 5

Up North Voice

A Division of AuSable Media, LLC

A veteran-owned business located at 709 Lake Street, PO Box 113, Roscommon MI 48653

“Friend, guide and companion of all good people”

Up North Voice is published monthly and distributed in Roscommon, St. Helen, Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Grayling, Lovells, Waters, Gaylord, Johannesburg, Lewiston, Comins, Atlanta, Mio, Fairview, McKinley, Rose City, Luzerne, Lupton, West Branch, Skidway Lake, Hale, Glennie, Curran, Tawas City, East Tawas, National City, Whittemore, Prescott, AuSable and Oscoda. It is available at newsstands or annually for $40.

Stories, advertisements and photos are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher. UpNorthVoice.com is updated daily with breaking news and photos.

989-275-1170

Out & About

Continued from page 4

Bucket off exit 222 or email sthelenlakeassociation@charter.net

24 – St. Helen Chamber annual Golf Outing- Birch Pointe Golf Club- for more info contact Kathy Jernigan 989-389-7244 or chamber of commerce @ 989-389-3725

29 – Oct 1st - 222RF Down & Dirty Event- ORV Park on E. Airport Road- for more info email contact222RF@gmail.com

Roscommon County Extras: Mon- Reserve tech HelpHoughton Lake Public Library

Mon- Zumba Class- 4:45- 5:45 p.m.

Mon, Thurs, Fri- St. Helen Baptist Church Food Closet, 12-3 p.m.

Mon, Thurs, Fri- AA Meeting, St Helen Baptist Church, 10-11a.m.

Tues- Ski Club 4H, Starting Jan 7, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Cross Country Ski Headquarters, 9435 N. Cut Rd, Roscommon. 5-19 30 student limit, must be registered, more info 989275-5043 $15

Tues- AA Meeting, St Helen Baptist Church 7-8p.m.

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

Thurs- Roscommon Ukes Strum and Sing, 1 p.m., Roscommon Area District Library

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

Fri- Story-time Fridays, 10:30 a.m., Houghton Lake Public Library

Fri- C.A.I.R (Christians Associated in Recovery), 7 p.m. St Helen Baptist Church

Sat- Zumba Class- 10-11 a.m. CRAF Center $20

1st Thurs- Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m., Blogett Airport Houghton Lake

2nd Sun- VFW Country Breakfast, 8 a.m., VFW Post 4159

2nd Thurs- B2B Breakfast, 8 a.m., Village of Roscommon

3rd Wed- Michigan Fireman’s Memorial Festival Meeting 6:30 p.m.

Check the MSU Extension

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

IOSCO COUNTY:

Hale, Whittemore, Tawas

Iosco County Extras:

Mon- BINGO, 6:30 p.m., Whittemore Chamber of Commerce

3rd Tues- Whittemore Chamber Meeting, 7 p.m., 405 E. Sherman Street

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

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

OGEMAW COUNTY: West Branch, Rose City, Lupton West Branch Public Pool

Hours: Mon-Fri- AM Lap Swim, 6-7 a.m.; Mon, Weds, Fri- PM Lap Swim, 5:45- 6:45 p.m.; Sat- Open Swim, 5-9 p.m.

Cost $4 per person, passes are available. For more information or possible pool rental, please call 989343-2026

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 7:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus off M-30

Weds- AL-ANON meeting, 8 p.m., 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First Street

Weds- Culvers Cruise In, 6 – 8 p.m., Culvers West Branch

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

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

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

1st & 3rd Tues- Rose City Council meeting, 6 p.m., Council Chambers, 310 N. Williams Street

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

1st Wed- Ogemaw County

Veterans Coffee Hour- 9-10 a.m.

1st & 3rd Thurs- Newborn

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 6

Out & About

Continued from page 5

Parent Support Group, 6 p.m., MyMichigan Health West Branch in the Executive Dining Room

1st Thurs- Ogemaw County Fair Board meeting, 7 p.m., meets in main building

2nd Mon- Kiwanis Young Professional Club, 6 p.m., Highway Brewing Company

2nd Tues- Parkinson's Disease Support Group, 2:00 p.m., MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch Executive Dining Room

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

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

2nd Wed- Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia Support

Group, 2- 3:30 p.m. MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch Executive Dining Room

2nd & 4th Thurs- Healing Together – Compasus Hospice, 10 a.m., Ogemaw Commission on Aging, 1508 M-33

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

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

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

3rd Thurs- Ogemaw Area Swim

West Branch art auction

OGEMAW COUNTY- Come

celebrate the works of Joyce Clark Lewton at a live art auction on Sat. Sept 26 at the Lake Ogemaw Clubhouse beginning with a preview of the art at 2 p.m., and the auction beginning at 3 p.m.

Joyce was born in Harrison and was a resident of West Branch from 1975 until she passed in 2018. She was a nationally respected and award-winning artist and art instructor.

One hundred of Lewton’s

paintings will be offered to the public at the auction. All proceeds will support the West Branch Creative Arts Association Scholarship Program next year. The scholarship is presented annually in the spring to an Ogemaw County resident (often a graduating senior) who seeks to further his or her higher art education in any one of a hundred different courses of study.

Light refreshments will be served. Call 989-345-1451 with any questions.

Boosters 6 p.m., Ogemaw Heights High School Room 210

2nd Sat- Ogemaw Hills

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

OTHER REGIONS:

Weds- Patio Grilling and Horseshoe League-5-7 p.m. -Mio Moose Lodge 631 Ryno Road for more info call 989-826-5800

1st and 3rd Thurs- Alcona County Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m.- Westminster Presbyterian Church 201 M 2nd St. Harrisville

1st Fri- Fish Fry- 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.Luzerne American Legion. - For info call 989-826-5950

2nd Mon- Mio Methodist Meeting

2nd and 4th Fri- Clothes Closet for Adults- 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.- Comins Community Church- 4263 W. First

St. Comins

4th Weds- Cheboygan Co

Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. -Cheboygan VFW

3rd Thurs- Craft Day- 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.- TriPoint Church of God- 831 W. Miller, Mio

4th Thurs- Alpena Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. Art in the Loft

Every Mon- Bible Study- 10 a.m. & 7 p. m. - Living Water Lutheran Church behind Dollar General, Mio

Every Tues- Women's Group6:30 p.m.- TriPoint Church of God- 831 W. Miller, Mio- for more info call Deb 989-390-2708

Every Tues- Pickleball- 1 p.m.TriPoint Church of God for more info call Pastor Jody 989-390-9150

Every Tues- Grief Share Support Group- 2-4 p.m.- Mio UMC- for more info call Barb Butler 989-390-6617

Every Weds- Men's Fellowship10 a.m.- Living Water Luthern Church

Every Weds- Women's Bible Study- 10 a.m. Living Water's Luthern Church

Every Weds- Burgers Grilled on the Patio- 4:30-7pm - Luzerne American Legion

Every Thurs- Men's Group- 7 p.m.-TriPoint Church of God- for more info call Gene 989-350-0638

Every Sun- Pickleball- 3 p.m.TriPoint Church of God for more info call Pastor Jody 989-390-9150

1st Fri- Fish Fry Dinner, Luzerne American Legion, 4:30-7 p.m.

The late Joyce Clark Lewton, admired artist from West Branch. Her works will be on display and up for auction at the Lake Ogemaw Clubhouse Sat. Sept 26.

1. Country Corners Bulk Food - Cheese, bulk food, baking supplies, candy, home remedies, discount items, burn and wound supplies, Now Foods supplements and essential oils.

• 1284 W Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-6063

2. Natures Beauty Rustic Furniture - Handcrafted custommade home furnishings, large and small. "True beauty in wood!"

• 860 E. Kneeland Rd. ~ 989-848-2806

3. Country Feed Supply - Full line of feeds, popular brands of pet food and supplies, assorted potting mixes, raised garden boxes, large selection of bird seed and feeders, food plot seeds and supplies. • 389 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-2305

4. Highland Building Center - Full-service lumber yard with your favorite tools in stock. Order your Quality Millworks custom orders here. • 639 E. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-848-8000

5. The Farm Kitchen - Fresh baked goods, homemade deli sandwiches, home decor gift shop, grass-fed meats and ice cream! • 50 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-8666

6. North Star Storage Barns - Custom buildings, many to choose from. • 398 N. Mount Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-1000

7. Echo Ridge Fabrics - Fabrics, notions, Amish clothing (infant to adult), toys and games, arts and crafts supplies, home decor. • 1734 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 989-826-1913

8. Sweet Success Sugarbush - Maple syrup goods.

• 1442 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 989-826-3160

9. Pioneer General Store - Not just your average hardware and home store. • 432 N. Mt Tom Rd. ~ 989-826-3580

10. Blue Jay Valley Greenhouse - Flowers, vegetables, plants, various garden fertilizers, conventional and no-till drill rentals, fresh fruit and produce in season. Open April 15-October 31 (Closed July 1-31) • 1300 N. Perry Creek Rd. ~ 989-848-7337

11. Shady Lane Footwear & Oak Hill Furniture - Footwear for the entire family, handcrafted solid wood furniture, with full line of weather resistant wood, and poly resin outdoor furniture. • 68 E. Kneeland Rd. ~ 989-848-8265

12. The Farmer's Creamery - Full line of quality dairy products including 100% grass-fed ice cream. Watch our production process through our observation window! Deli and sandwiches, baked goods, grass-fed meats and gift shop. • 50 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-8368

13. HJB Saddlery & Leather - Specializing in leather belts and other custom leather crafting. Complete saddle repair, clean and oil. New and used tack and saddles. Harnesses and harness repair. • 711 W Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-2180

14. Gray Barn Wax Co. - Hand-poured soy candles. Opening for the season April 28. Hours: Mon., Fri., Sat. 10am-5pm • 1970 N. Galbraith Rd. ~ 248-762-2179

15. Maple Ridge Metal Supply - Specializing in pole barn supplies, residential metal roofing, siding, doors/windows. Commercial & Residential. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7am-4pm, Sat. 8am-11am • 748 N. Gerber Rd. ~ 989-826-5752

16. Pine Grove Woodworking - Custom flooring, kitchens, baths, cabinetry, doors. Pine and cedar tongue & groove paneling. Prefinished or unfinished. • 647 W. Kneeland Rd. ~ 989-826-6510

17. Quality Millworks - For your custom wainscoting, crown molding, window casing, baseboard, tongue & groove & more. We also work with contractors! • 962 W. Kittle Rd. ~ 989-826-1050

Where has summer gone?

View From the Comfy Chair

By Joel Vernier

Waking up from a well-deserved nap, I was thinking about how much I love summer! The warm breezes and the feel of the sun on my skin warmed me far better than a cup of hot cocoa in the winter.

A dip in the lake, Michigan water always sends a chill that enhances the Michigan swimming experience. Humans are quite an adaptive species and watching them enter a Michigan lake is quite an experience. A young child or young adult may use the quick shot method. They jump into the water, and if it’s cold, they surface, and with a smile and yell, it feels great.

An older adult may use a slower acclimation process. This involves dipping a toe or a foot in the water, complaining, of course, walking into the water, scooping up some of the brisk liquid, and splashing it onto their arms, back, and stomach. When their body is ready, there are no concerns about a cardiac event when they submerge, off they go into the deep, at least waist deep.

Boating is another favorite summer activity. I fell in love with boating as a child. When I was 12, my family rented a cottage on Pontiac Lake. The cabin owner had a small speed boat, and he let me drive it under full power. As we came around an island, a couple of old wooden dock posts were about 5 feet

out of the water. Without flinching, I drove the boat right between the dock posts. It was a tight fit, but no problem, we made it through.

I looked over at the boat owner, who was clearly shaken. “Everything okay?” I asked. He nodded his head yes but could not speak. My first boat was a kayak before I bought my first car. Then a rowboat that I would spend a day on the lake rowing, a small motor came later. I graduated to a speed boat, a bowrider, and my first pontoon. After a few boating changes, I now have just a pontoon and kayaks. It fits my lifestyle better. Looking across the room at the calendar on the wall, I realized that it was already a couple of weeks into August and that the summer was more than half over. I have yet to launch my kayaks this year, and summer is almost over. In a few weeks, the boats will all be winterized and put away to wait for the next summer season. The lakes will get too cold to swim in, and the leaves will fall as Autumn approaches. The latest I have gone for a swim in Michigan was October 14.

My daughter swam on January 1st one year when there was no ice. To qualify as a swimmer, she needed to swim out deep enough that she could not touch bottom; she did, and so did her “Once in a lifetime Dog, Chloe!” Then they both took a hot shower! We wrote it in our family bible. Quite an achievement!

"Remember, every day is a gift! Some are just a little more fun to open than others. – © Joel M. Vernier 08/11/2023 Author of: "The Guinea Pig In The Freezer." joelmvernier@ aol.com

ST. HELEN ICON REOPENS

– The Cedar Inn is under new ownership and reopened in St. Helen Aug. 7. The long-time business, which closed four years ago, was purchased by Jason, Kristen, and Allison Reber. They are located at 1991 St. Helen Road and is open

daily at noon. Closing hours are to be determined. The kitchen is currently under renovation, but until that work is complete, the Hen House will be supporting a limited menu. For information call 989-389-7205.

~ Photo by Tracy Constance

Cool days and calm nights ahead

Toad's Stool

By Warren "Toad" Stutesman

Hello my friends and welcome to the month of September? Wow September already where did August go so fast. One day it was the fifth of August and the next it’s September. I guess that it is okay because I really like September.

September is the month of the beginning of the cool days and nights though I do not have any complaints about the past summer. It has sure been a nice year for nighttime temperatures.

My bird friends have been keeping me great company. I have had a pair of Scarlet Tanagers for most of the summer though absent right now. The Orioles have been by lately as well.

One thing about August is that it is the month of the ugly Blue Jays. They sure look miserable when the head feathers are molting.

After the ugly birds though come the beautiful fall flowers. The Purple Loosestrife is in full glory right now.

I hope that there is no more spraying for “Gypsy Moths” because I don't care what the experts say, every year after spraying we see fewer birds. No Whippoorwills in my yard this year but I can hear some in the distance. Another bird not seen this year is Night Hawks, and last year we finally had a half dozen.

I consider Night Hawks and Whippoorwills sentinel species because when something goes wrong in the environment, they are among the first to suffer and die.

We were set up by God to be

the stewards of the earth and such responsibility should not be treated lightly. I know that we cannot actually take care of the whole world by ourselves, but we can be caretakers of our own properties and surrounding areas.

I am sorry as I don't mean to preach to everyone it’s just that it truly bothers me what so many just do not care about.

The flowers in my wife's garden are looking nice which is more than can be said about the vegetables. Nothing against her gardening skills though because the deer and bunnies seem to think that she does a great job.

So very many deer coming in makes me think that maybe I should start hunting again. I just don't want to kill anything anymore. I even relocate the chipmunks and ground squirrels that I trap here.

I know that I speak about it often but why do so many people come “Up North” for the beauty, and then throw their trash out along the roadsides. We pick up stuff regularly on our travels. Is it so hard to just hold it in your car until going to a gas station or fast-food place or some other such place and then leave it in the bin.

Labor Day is the big day in September and while checking out what traditions are associated with it, I found most to be travel and party related. However, one that I found is one that I had not heard of before and that is taking treats to a fire hall or hospital or other such establishment. I think that is a nice idea, especially as they have to work and do not get the time off.

Until next time we meet, please help keep our woods and waters clean. Oh, and if you can, maybe plant a tree or some flowers to help our animal friends.

Combining commerce with ‘Ogemaw’ history

By Alicia Noragon WEST BRANCH -

For about 25 years, the advertisement display off exit 212 was empty. As of Aug 28, the billboard has been restored.

Ogemaw County resident Sean Gilbert made this endeavor happen. Tired of seeing this billboard empty, Sean reached into his own pocket to design the project.

The layout honors the late Chippewa Chief Ke-ke-to, (locally known as Chief Ogemaw) speaker for the local Chippewa tribe in the 1800’s. He was a chief narrator for several Native American tribes and also spoke before congress.

Unlike tradition, Ogemaw Ke-ke-to did not become chief by ancestry. He was a well admired and respected warrior and highly regarded because of his eloquent speaking skills.

The chief passed away in 1840 and was first buried in a colonel’s uniform from the American Revolution on property now known as Twenty Second and Water Streets. The uniform was a gift from President Thomas Jefferson, who was impressed by the intelligence of Ke-Ke-to. He will forever be remembered in local history for helping bring peace between the First People and the

settlers.

Gilbert said he worked on the billboard to give people a taste of local history, as well as another reason to shop in Ogemaw County. Gilbert and his wife, Kellie, own Made in the USA, located in the mall off I-75. They store retails just American made products.

“We have every intention of making this store become the biggest thing in the state of Michigan. We do understand for (us) to be successful; our surrounding community must be successful as well. One hand washing the other you might say,” Gilbert said.

Gilbert believes Ogemaw County can be a beacon of Northeast Michigan.

“When vehicles drive (past) our community, it doesn’t benefit our community,” he said. “This is why (we’ve) completed this magnificent project in only three weeks. With zero tax dollars.”

Check out the billboard the next time you’re near exit 212, welcoming you to Ogemaw County, the “Final Oasis to the Great North”

Hoping the change is positive and successful, Gilbert reminds the community not to wait for good things to happen, but to find good people that can make them happen.

The completed billboard honoring the late Chief Chippewa Chief Ke-ke-to. Also known as Chief Ogemaw, an artist’s impression of Ke-ke-to is used at the top of all official Ogemaw County correspondence.

Reburied in 1877, on property of William R. McCormick. Chief Ogemaw’s remains now rest beneath this stone in the locality where he held his councils.

MIO CELEBRATES FIRST DAM RACE – Mio’s First Dam Canoe Race was presented by the Oscoda County Canoe Racing Association and the MCRA on

Sat. Aug 26 and 27. The event was coordinated by Danny Medina. Community spectators and racers enjoyed lunch in the Oscoda County Park after the races.

IOSCO COUNTY EQUINE

COMPETITORS – Iosco County

4-H Desperado’s Horse Club competed at the State 4-H Horse Show in Lansing, competing in gymkhana barrel racing classes, along with many other barrel racers

from all over the state of Michigan. Athletes and their horses have to attend multiple horse shows and be an active member of the 4-H program.

Aaron and Alan Putnam participating in the First Dam Canoe Race in Mio. ~ Photo Courtesy of Crystal Brabant

Peggy Smutek, previous director, and Danny Medina, current director of the First Dam Canoe Race. The Canoe Cake was made by Jennifer Meadows of St. Helen. ~ Photo by Tracy Constance

~ Photo by Carla Johnson

Tristianna Wade, Emily Morley, Kaylee Morley and Reese Spaw

See answer on page 27

Fall traditions build memories

Home Country By Slim Randles

Fall is the polishing time. Why? Your guess is as good as mine. For some reason, the spirit that guides us made our experiences in fall the peak of the year’s efforts.

For animals, both wild and domestic, it is the rut, the breeding time. The bulls and bucks have never looked better. Their antlers and horns are hardened into weapons and sharpened against trees. Their bodies are lean and aggressive, and they tend to lose all good sense.

I don’t think for a minute that it is just a calendar coincidence that fall is when most festivals, fairs and exhibitions occur. Because by the time fall rolls around, we have jars

of jelly ready for competition. The hunters have been practicing out at the range for weeks now and are ready to take the rifle or the bow into the woods to see how their skills measure up to those who they’d love to subdivide and put in the freezer.

The kids are all back in school now, where they can try out all the new crazy stunts on their friends that they learned from their uncles last summer. It is a holy, blessed time for that. Family tradition, you know.

The uncles have been polishing these stunts for decades now and have them down to a science. And the older folks may not be building cabins or climbing mountains after elk as much these days, but there is a lot to be said for just passing along stories to the youngsters. And it works out fairly well when we realize that ‘most everyone who could challenge the truth of one of those stories has already graciously died on us.

Fall is just a wonderful time to be alive.

'WEED AND FEED'Twenty volunteers took part in the Roscommon Village “Weed and Feed”. Residents and other volunteers worked to weed about 40 plots around the village. The

Copyright © Kevin Stone

event was sponsored by the Village of Roscommon and Bob's Butcher Shop. Bob's Butcher Shop donated the ground beef for the “feed” portion of the event.

~ Photo by Donna Thoma

Chad Patterson

Continued from page 1 needed skills.

The program was to go into schools to teach lessons through theater. Stating, “at the time it was rough, because we were learning on the fly.” The most satisfying thing about the program for Patterson, was seeing the faces of the children as they learned and performed. Eventually Patterson eventually became the owner/director of Acting Up. His nearly twenty years with Acting Up Theater ultimately led him to his current activities.

Often getting the feeling that he “needed to meet a certain person now” has led him to doing things he only dreamt possible. Patterson isn't sure if one might call it fate or kismet, but just the sense that we need to say “yes” when presented with an opportunity, even when it seems a bit scary. His fifteen-year-old self could never have imagined him as a radio DJ, as he was the one calling the local station back then.

Gits and Shiggles is an example of one of those incidents. Happy little accidents.” Kathy Ellison of the AuSable Artisan Village approached Patterson with the idea of doing community theater for adults. Patterson jokingly said I'd like to teach improv! Ellison and the late Tina Foster put together a program. Patterson said, “I got lucky.” He had a group that met once a week for eight weeks, and from that grew the Gits and Shiggles troupe, complete with “Shigglets,” their devoted followers. Gits and Shiggles has raised over $18,000 in five years and has donated all of it to a variety of local community organizations.

Named Grayling Citizen of the Year in 2017 for his community involvement, he really thought the other candidate should have been awarded the title.

Patterson is fond of his work with students, whether through Acting Up, or school plays and musicals. Seeing young people grow and step out of their comfort zones has greatly affected him. He has known students who struggled in school, to go on to do well in life.

Gits and Shiggles does a bit called “Five Things.” When asked what were Patterson's most important “five things” in life, Patterson stated: 1. Family; 2. Friends; 3. Positive Attitude; 4. Saying YES; and 5. Doing “it” every day. “It” being, putting yourself out there. “Any lesson, is a matter of taking the step forward and asking if you can do it.” Not being afraid of rejection.

Patterson stated the two most pivotal people in his life, have been his friend Troy Mackinder and Kurt Thoma. Mackinder for encouraging him, even when things seemed bleak, and Thoma for giving him a chance in a profession he loves.

Patterson and wife Lori have two children, Seth, and Sam (Del). Both appear destined to follow in their father's footsteps with theater and entertainment.

*Mackinder, actor, and author of “Practically Speaking,” passed away in 2018.

Stork drop benefits maternity patients

WEST BRANCH-– MyMichigan Health employees and members of the West Branch community gathered on Fri., Aug. 4 at Tolfree Wellness Park for the annual MyMichigan Health Foundation Stork Drop event.

The event included food, music, yard games, and a helicopter golf ball drop. The owner of the golf ball that landed closest to the pin received a $1,000 cash prize. Proceeds from the Stork Drop

HERITAGE DAYS FUN - The Oscoda County Fairgrounds hosted Heritage days in midAugust. There were horse rides, face painting, a cornhole tournament, and fun activities for the whole family. ~ Photos courtesy of Codie Yoder

Kids enjoy the exotic petty zoo at Heritage Days.

event benefit the Maternity Center at MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch.

Following the golf ball drop, Medical Center volunteers presented Maternity Center staff with a donation of personalized onesies to gift each newborn born at the Medical Center.

Those who would like to learn more about the event, or make a donation, may visit www. mymichigan.org/storkdrop.

Medical Center volunteers presented Maternity Center staff with a gift of personalized onesies for each newborn born at the Medical Center.

The lumberjack competition in action at the Oscoda Fairgrounds.

Festival followers enjoy good vibes at Farmfest

By Allison Williams JOHANNESBURG- In

midAugust, more than 600 individuals came out to the earthy woods of Johannesburg for Farmfest, a folk roots music festival that has taken place nearly every year since 1998 when the site was constructed. The site features a main stage, second stage, drum kiva, vendors area, kids’ area, healing pavilion, multiple fire circles, and plenty of room for both RV camping and tent camping for the weekend. Those who came out appreciated a weekend full of music, delicious food, and community.

While the vendors were captivating, the music was most certainly the main event at Farmfest. With a variety of performers, many coming from Northern Michigan, Farmfest offers many different genres of music for listeners. For The Third Degree, a band out of Petoskey, Michigan, this was their first time

performing at Farmfest. They told us “It was an absolute blast! Performing on the main was so much fun and the hospitality from those involved was amazing. We can’t wait to come back!”

The organizers of the event were extremely satisfied with the turnout, though the festival has capacity for more. “We had more than last year and are working on growing the attendance slowly and adding new things each year,” he said. “This year we added silent disco which was a great hit along with the slipnslide, healing pavilion workshops with yoga, and we even had a magician and hypnotist wowing our crowds.”

Families continue to come back and the spirit of Farmfest lives on through generations. The event is expected to continue annually for the foreseeable future. Be sure to check them out next year!

Tarzan Rockman, a rock collector and vendor from Tennessee displaying his rock and crystal collection for sale or trade at Farmfest.

Michigan Firemen's Memorial Festival

Schedule of Events

SEPTEMBER 14-17, 2023

Roscommon Fire Training Grounds (formerly known as the Rosco. Co. Fairgrounds)

Camping Available on Fire Training Grounds All Weekend

Michigan Propane Gas Association presents classes on Propane Fire Training for the Roscommon Region:

CLASSROOM TRAINING:

Sept. 13th, 6:00 PM at Tri-County F. D. Mio, MI

Sept. 14th, 6:00 PM at Frederic Twp. Vol. F. D. Frederic, MI

OUTDOOR TRAINING:

Sept 16th 10:00 AM Roscommon Fire Training Grounds

290 Ballanger Rd.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

10:00 AM – Vendors check-in and set-up.

12:00 Noon – Vendors may open when ready.

4:00-8:00 PM – “Family Night” Free hot dogs; Activities teaching firefighting; Shows; Demonstrations and hands-on experience for all.

6:00 PM – Meeting for fire vendors and firefighters working competitions.

The Roscommon High School Band participated in the parade which is traditionally held on Saturday.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023

9:00 AM – Vendor check-in and set-up. (Supply vehicles removed from aisle by 12:00 noon.)

12:00 Noon – Vendors open booths.

2:00 PM-12 Midnight – Refreshments in Big Red Barn. (ID required)

4:00 PM-8:00 PM – Registration for Competitions in Command Post (Bright Light, Waterball, & Smokehouse)

4:00 PM – Extrication Training by Holmatro.

4:00 PM-8:00 PM – Bouncy Houses in Corral for Children.

7:00 PM – “Bright Light Showdown” judging starts. (Drivers must stay with their vehicle.)

8:00 PM-12:00 Midnight – Music & Dancing in the Big Red Barn. (Must be 21 with ID & badge)

9:00 PM – Bright Light 911 Memorial Parade. (Lights only, no sirens) Walkers join in at 5th and M-18.

SECTION COVER PHOTOS (page 15):

Left: Horses pull a fire cart in the 1980s; Right: An antique fire truck participates in the parade

Youths participating in family night had their faces painted.

Above: The Michigan Fireman's Memorial Festival Committee shows off it's truck.

Left: Members of the Michigan Fireman's Memorial Festival Committee helped serve beer in the Big Red Barn in 2017.

Roscommon Fire Training Grounds Map

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023

9:00 AM – Memorial Services presented by Michigan State Firemen’s Association Services are at the Statue Site, which is 1337 Robinson Lake Rd. Names added and dedicated. Public invited and welcomed.

Events at the Roscommon Co Training Grounds:

9:00 AM – Parade registration on Lake St.

12:00 Noon – Parade begins. (On Old 76/5th St. to Ballanger ending at Grounds.)

10:00 AM-3:00 PM

– Versiti Blood Drive.

For Appointment: https:// donate.michigan.versiti. org/donor/schedules/drive_ schedule/152010

Buy Your raffle tickets!

Firemen's 2023 Raffle

Michigan Firemen's Memorial Festival Committee Inc.

1st Prize: $1,000.00 • 2nd Prize: $500.00

3rd Prize: $300.00

Drawing: Saturday, Sept. 16th 8:00-9:00PM

Roscommon County Fire Training Grounds

$5.00 per ticket

begins.

1:30 PM – Waterball Competition begins.

1:30 PM – Demonstration by Gray’s Towing / Michigan Spill

3:00 PM – Gold Badge auction and auctions for other items.

4:00 PM – Demonstration burning on Gas Maze and autos.

8:00 PM – $1000.00 Raffle Drawing, Music, Dancing, and Socializing in the Big Red Barn. (Badge required with picture ID. Must be 21.)

Youths checked out the model train display in the Big Red Barn

A truck from the parade in the 1980s.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2023

8:00 AM until Gone – Pancake Breakfast in the Big Red Barn. Hosted by Higgins Township Fire Department.

This is a tentative schedule and may be subject to change.

Souvenirs, Events, and Attractions all Weekend * Bounce Houses for Children

Antique Fire Truck Display * Sales of Fire and Rescue Equipment * Gray’s Air Cushion & Truck Up-Righting

Vendor sales of Home Décor * Trolley rides to & from Statue Site * Free Rustic Camping * Food-truck * Goodies

Spartan Sword from Twin Towers

Cornhole Toss * MFMFC Souvenirs

Door Prizes on Badge Numbers

Crawford County names citizen of the year

Julie McClain was chosen for Crawford County Citizen of the Year by the Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Julie was recognized for her volunteer work in the community. With her team of volunteers, she helped over 400 children in the county with the largest donation for Toys for Tots to date.

Healthy family, happy family

ROSCOMMON COUNTY- Nearly 30 vendors greeted attendees on Aug. 9 for the annual MidMichigan Health Fair at the Houghton Lake facility. Groups and services represented were from the various health related offices, Sheriff's Department, State Police, Victims Services, Roscommon County Extension/4-H, St. Vincent DePaul, United Way, and others.

The Sheriff's Department provided a bounce house, there were games for children, and back-toschool haircuts were available.

The annual event is held at the MidMichigan Community Health Center to educate the public regarding services available by them and other local service agencies.

For info on advertising in Up North Voice call 989-275-1170

'Big Foot Bash' featuring three guest speakers

OSCODA- Fri., Sept. 29 at 5 p.m. Oscoda’s “Big Foot Bash” will feature a meet and greet with speakers Jeff Meldrum, Ph.D, Cliff Barackman, and Matt Moneymaker, at the local VFW Post #3735. The seats for the speaker event will run $35$55 and include an opportunity for pictures, autographs, and more!

Following the meet and greet, VIP plus members will go to a secret location for a hike through the Huron National Forest, with two of the guest speakers.

Saturday will include the Bigfoot Bash Expo

featuring over 75 booths focused on all things Bigfoot and nature related. Featuring a family fun area offering several free crafts for kids! Entry is only $5/person (babies in arms are free), and the doors open at 10 a.m.

Bigfoot Bash Contests will include an art contest, song lyric contests, and a wood carving contest.

For additional information or questions, you can reach the Oscoda/ AuSable Chamber of Commerce at 989-739-7322 or by email at events@ oscodachamber.com.

~ Photo by Donna Thoma

Trooper Brian Koboldt with Cadet Erica Terry at the MidMichigan Health Fair.

Julie McClain, Citizen of the Year, participated in the parade prior to the 75th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon.

Fitzgerald earns book honor

ROSCOMMON- Local resident Catherine Fitzgerald, children’s book author and retired elementary school educator has been chosen as a winner of The Golden Wizard Book Prize. Ms. Fitzgerald, after application, submission of her book and review, was notified by The Golden Wizard Book Prize CEO Louise Jane that her children’s book “Maggie, the Dog with a HeartThe Adventures of a Jack Russell Terrier” had been chosen as a winner.

Ms. Jane commented, “Maggie’s journey of self-discovery is relatable for anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world, whether it’s in a new school or after a move. The

book offers children an opportunity to voice their own emotions when going through big changes themselves.”

“Maggie, the Dog with a Heart” also recently received a Purple Dragonfly Book Award honorable mention and is available for purchase on Amazon and Barnes and Noble Booksellers. Ms. Fitzgerald’s second book, “A New Home for Maggie” is in production and scheduled for publication in late fall. She is currently working on her third book and often visits community organizations, schools, and libraries for speaking, reading and book events.

Support our local businesses

Bombs abound in 'Got your six' event

ROSCOMMON- “Dropping Bombs” event on Aug. 22 at the Grayling Air Gunnery Range. This was a free event for veterans, first responders and their families organized by “Got Your Six Veterans” founder “TK” Kotulak. Pictured: Renee Ross, Jacob Kotulak, Cole Van Zalen, Justin Leeland, Brayden Mercer, Keith Missinne, Jay Weiss, Mary Bozwell, PK and Kenny Lipke, Terri Lemerand, Scott Adamczyk, Major Timothy Lorson, CMSgt Jeffrey Matheney, MSgt Serge Allan, TSgt Cody Nosek, Mr. Trent Marshall, Dave Meyer Korean vet, Laverne Meyer and Vern Meyer Germany vet. ~ Photo by Tracy Constance

Roscommon community member Cathy Fitzgerald, retired teacher, and children's book author with her first book, "Maggie, the Dog with a Heart.”

The necessity of standards: Integrity

An incident occurred on October 20, 1973, when a certain individual was instructed by his superior to fire the person who was in charge of investigating the superior. Instead of listening to his superior and breaking the law, this individual chose to resign his position.

This incident is a perfect example of integrity. Its core principles center on an individual’s honesty, having strong moral principles, behaving ethically, and consistently doing the right thing (even when no one is looking). It is not innate but acquired from past exposure to values over years of development. The exposure and influence centers on family, faith, friends, and friends of the family, where the teachings of openness, honesty, and right vs. wrong are paramount.

Even though it is ingrained, over time, personal integrity may be chiseled down by the relentless onslaught of exposure to negative values experienced in life. If you feel that your personal integrity has waned or if you wish to turn a new leaf, the following are suggestions that may help toward your goal, according to Elizabeth Perry and her Seven Traits Associated with Integrity:

1. Expressing gratitude for others

2. Valuing openness and honesty

3. Taking responsibility and accountability for your actions, both

at that time, I felt very satisfied, contented, and at peace with the stand that was made. That impacted me so much that decades later, I still can recall it.

And as for the individual in the beginning incident? His name was Elliot Richardson, his superior was President Richard Nixon, and the special prosecutor was Archibald Cox. Richardson’s resignation, along with others, was called “The Saturday Night Massacre”, and was centered on the Watergate investigations of President Nixon and his White House personnel on possible illegal activities. This eventually led to President Nixon’s resignation on August 8, 1974.

Integrity is such a necessity of standards; when adhering to them, it could make this world a better place to live not only for oneself, but for others as well. As adults, we can improve, refine, and reevaluate our own standards. But where are the Elliot Richardsons of today? We need only to look at ourselves and make that choice of integrity. I believe that this is what the Lord would want us to do.

“Integrity gives personal freedom, because you have nothing to fear because you have nothing to hide.”

– Zig Ziglar

“Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions, based on values rather than personal gains.” –Chris Karcher

Seniors may be eligible for Project Fresh coupons

By Suzanne Barker, Director of the Oscoda County Council on Aging

Welcome September and Happy Labor Day! The Senior Center will be closed on Sept. 4 for the holiday.

We have entered the “ber” months. This means the days are beginning to approach summer’s end. September is my favorite month. We usually still have warmth during the day, but it is cooler at night which is perfect for sitting around a nice bonfire. However, we have also experienced some September’s that were still very hot and humid. If we have one of those this year, remember you can come to the Senior Center and cool down in the air conditioning.

The food drops happenings this month are the Golden Grocery Giveaway Program (senior cheese box) will be happening on Tues. Sept. 19 from 10 – 11 a.m. The Together We Can Food Pantry will be having a veggies/produce box on Thurs. Sept 7, and then the regular box on Thurs. Sept 21. Both drops are from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. All food drops happen at the fairgrounds.

The council’s monthly board meeting will be on Mon. Sept 11 at 1 p.m. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

I have received an email from the Project Fresh Program Manager saying they had some coupons they could still give out. I told them to please send me what they could. This is not a guarantee that more coupons will be sent, but I am hopefully. If I receive them, I will get the word out on our Facebook page as well as the Up North Voice. If you have already received coupons, please know that individuals who have not received any coupons yet will have first dibs on getting the books that do come. Once they have been taken care of, I will put it out on the outside sign at the Senior Center. Thank you for your patience with this.

The exercise class is still happening on Tuesday mornings from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. It’s a great class with awesome music. Come join in!

The Harvest Moon for September will be beautifully shining on Sept. 29. I hope you get to see it!

There is always at least one thing to be grateful for daily.

Have an amazing month and keep smiling! Pass on the smiles to brighten someone else’s day too. A small, kind gesture goes a long way. We are not alone; everyone is struggling with something. SHOP LOCAL!

Kids create 'critters' at the Gahagan Nature Preserve

By Kalsa Parker Browning, Education DirectorMarguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve

The preserve was alive with the sound of music this summer at our first ever Children’s Nature Concert! We were happy to be joined by Michelle and Barrick Fite of Fite Family Music for naturethemed sing-alongs and interactive music. The concert featured tunes about some very charismatic critters we find in the north woods, including bears, butterflies, and the unique Kirtland’s Warbler, among others. A huge thanks to Fite Family Music for joining us at the Preserve for this very special event!

Summer also featured the return of our Nature Camp. We started camp with some get-to-know-you name-games, then we started our preparations for one

of our featured activities, creating nature-inspired t-shirt designs. The results were some great projects, and a camp memento the kids took home and remembered their experience at Gahagan.

One activity that was a hit all three days of camp was building nature homes for a “legendary” Gahagan critter. We learned about what a legend is, and how these stories help explain the world around us. Then campers were tasked with creating a home for their very own legendary critter, complete with food, water, and shelter. On our last day, campers created a critter to live in their naturehome. These homes are still on display along the Preserve’s trails (off the paved trail near the cabin) where you can view the myriad of fairies and other legendary critters that now inhabit Gahagan.

We wrapped up Nature Camp by talking about our favorite parts, with some heartwarming responses like, “making new friends” and “everything”. We think this year’s camp was a hit. We look forward to welcoming new and returning campers for summer 2024!

Puzzle can be found on page 12

Campers explore the insects found in the Gahagan Nature Preserve Pond at Nature Camp.

Campers learn about decomposers as they investigate the forest floor during Nature Camp.

Fair week in Northern Michigan

The IOSCO COUNTY FAIR was held the last week of July in Hale and the OGEMAW COUNTY FAIR was held in West Branch the third week in August. These week-

long events featured animal exhibits, horse competitions, food, writing and photography exhibits, as well as a midway carnival, mud bog, and more.

Scream and smiles at the Ogemaw Fair.

Checking out the animal exhibit in the large animal barn, at the Iosco fair, were (l-r) June Walter of Sand Lake, Lucy Reay of Whittemore and Aubree Koehn of Sand Lake. The trio are part of the Palomino Hope Club.

Above: Waiting to head into the horse arena, at the Iosco fair, during the youth event were (left) Ellery Coleman and Tristianna Wade of Hale. Below: Harper & Raegan Thomas enjoy taco fries at the Iosco fair.

Laura Geodecke at the Iosco fair.

Above: Sally Watts of the Hale Country Quilters sews the edges of a 100-year-old quilt at the Iosco fair.

Right: Ava Nordeen of Oscoda, holds bunny Walker in the livestock area at the Iosco fair.

Remington Colvin experiencing the motorcycle ride at his first ever fair in Ogemaw County.

~ Photos by Mark Constance, Kristi Major, and Alicia Noragon

Alivia Sheehan of Whittemore cleans her pen in the pig barn at the Iosco County Fair.

'National Night Out' attracts a crowd

By Donna Thoma

The annual Emergency Services National Night Out in August was well attended. The occasion was held at the Houghton Lake Walmart.

The Roscommon Sheriff's Victims Service Unit provided games for children, firefighters demonstrated how to operate a firehose, and

explained how vehicles operated. Other county agencies supplied handout information to attendees.

To reach most county residents, the event rotates between communities in the county. Next year the village of Roscommon will host the event.

Camp Grayling seeks public input on PFAS contamination

GRAYLING- Earlier this year, the Environmental Communications members of the Office of the Secretary of Defense came to Grayling to talk with some Restoration Advisory Board members (RAB). They also took a tour of the Cantonment and Airfield and attended the evening RAB meeting. They would like more input from the greater community. This is an opportunity to communicate with the people who will ultimately make the decisions and pay the bills for the cleanup. All those who are affected by the Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) contamination, directly or indirectly, are welcome to participate.

Thurs., Aug. 31, at 6 p.m., there

will be a community open house at the Grayling TWP Hall to answer questions about our PFAS issue. While the request came from the Lake Margarethe Property Owners Association (LMPOA), those in the greater community who want to know more are welcome to attend. Representatives from EGLE and MDHHS will be asked to attend. This is about PFAS, no other issues will be covered.

Tues., Sept. 26 at 7 p.m., is the Next Camp Grayling RAB meeting at the Grayling TWP Hall. Please remember to be respectful during these meetings, as these individuals are there to help.

Please send any agenda items to mbkoppa54@gmail.com.

Families enjoying the activities at the National Night Out event put on by the Emergency Services in the area.

HUP ALL NIGHT – The Grayling and Oscoda communities celebrated the 75th Annual Consumer’s Energy AuSable River Canoe Marathon. The team of Steve Lajoie and Wesley Dean won the 120-mile event with a time of 14:23.40. The event which started on July 30 with a LeMan’s-type start

with a footrace through downtown Grayling at 9 p.m. and ends in Oscoda the following morning. The last team to finish in the allotted time was Alison vanMelle and Mallory Horwath with a time of 18:36.45. A record 110 teams started the event.

- Photos by Mark Constance

ARENAC'S CIVIL WAR

Left: The Grayling Knights of Columbus organizes the annual Special Olympics canoe event, which partners a professional paddler with an Olympian. They also sponsored a large luncheon for the Olympians and their families.

KNIGHTS SUPPORTING SPECIAL OLYMPICS

– The Grayling Knights of Columbus sponsored the annual Special Olympics races held during the AuSable River Canoe Marathon the last weekend of July. In the event, Olympians are paired with a professional racer, who also volunteer for the event.

The Knights donated a luncheon for the Olympians and their families. Shirts were donated by Mark and Tracy Constance from Up North Voice. Medals for the paddlers and Olympians were donated by Brody Robison from Sylvesters.

Pictured (seated, l-r) are Ed and Marge Martella, (back, l-r) Sally Slicker, Bernie Slicker, Ernie Balch, Donna Reed, Dick Reed, Carrie Kren, Jon Kren, Kathy Kren, Bob Lane, Chris Seager, Steve Seager, Marlyn Neuberger, Tim Lochinski, John Schott and Ron Pagereski.

~ Photo by Tracy and Mark Constance / UpNorthVoice.com

HISTORY - The Arenac County Historical Museum in AuGres held a free presentation on Civil War Veterans in Arenac County. Co-Author Brenda Poole Matt explained how unmarked graves were discovered and identified as those of Civil War veterans. Using grant money, official headstones were ordered. Many relatives, generations removed, participated in the ceremonial placement of the headstones. For more information call the Arenac County Museum 989-329-2862.

Chuck and Chris Hewitt raced in boat #61

Project graduation held a fundraiser for Grayling High School at the Special Olympics event at Penrod’s. Pictured (l-r) are Toni Millikin, Sarah Finstrom, Nicole Huspen and Brandt Finstrom.

Above: These volunteers helped at the time trials in front of Penrod’s.

Annette Boath raced with Frank Kingma in boat #32.

Caroline Ruby Koryciak (Gould), age 43, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, August 19, 2023 surrounded by her loving Family. Carrie was born in Grayling, MI, July 17, 1980. Daughter of Edward Gould and Carmen Lopez. Graduated from Roscommon High School. Caroline is survived by her 2 children, Gage James Koryciak and Graham Lee Koryciak; Parents Edward Gould & Carmen (Bryce) Lopez; Siblings Marie (Jim)

Greenwood, Christina (Eddie) Valdez and Charles (Sharon) Greenwood; Nephews Ryan, Steve and Scott Greenwood; Niece Charlene Greenwood and many other family members and friends. Carrie was a loving, stay-at-home Mother for 22 years and managed the household with pride. She enjoyed family time, vacations, reading, movies and watching her kids grow. Hobbies included home decorating, re-purposing furniture, putting together events and baking goodies. Carrie was smart, caring and had a great sense of humor. Carrie was always willing to help anyone in need and will be greatly missed by All.

Cathy Ann Rose, 69, Roscommon, passed July 8

Linda J. Harrison, 74, Prudenville, passed July 6

Shirley Arline Long, 99, Houghton Lake, passed July 9

Winona Marie Greer, 91, West Branch, formerly Gladwin, passed July 13

Judith Redd, 70, Tawas City, passed July 10

Karen Lee Grzenkowicz (Burke), 74, Hale, passed July 10

Dwight N. Griffith, 88, Beaverton, passed July 10

Allan Lee Nearing, 69, Gladwin, passed July 9

Callierose Elizabeth Wojciechowski, 92, Sterling Heights, formerly Fairview, passed July 12

Joyce Elaine Tunnicliffe, 82, Atlanta, passed July 11

Hsui Lien Cherry, 74, Grayling, passed on or about June 20

John Clyde Verlac, 68, Hale, passed July 9

John Frederick Harsen, 84, Prescott, passed July 11

Roger Eugene Johnson, 80, Oscoda, passed July 13

Christina M. Salas, 62, Mio, passed July 12

Linda Louise Woodhall-Root, 75, Lewiston, passed July 12

Bruce Lennon, 71, Grayling, passed July 14

Obituaries & Death Notices

Henry Hernandez, 76, St. Helen, passed July 28

Soultana 'Anna' Fotiadou Rosebrugh, 79, Lupton, passed July 25

Ronald 'Ron' L. Shaffer, 72, Standish, passed July 25

Robert J. Stein, 82, Standish, passed July 26

Franklin 'Frankie' Paul Chrivia, 52, Hale, passed July 26

Jerry Edward Kruse, 84, National City, passed July 26

Angeline Barnes, 76, Gladwin, passed July 23

Ashley Bard, 33, Beaverton, passed July 26

Nathan 'Nate' Bock, 42, Beaverton, passed July 26

Richard Trueblood, 83, Gladwin, passed July 27

Cynthia Diane Cuddie, 67, Gladwin, passed July 27

Gertrude Mary Johnson, 85, Alger, formerly Shelby Twp., passed July 30

Jack Ernest Newman, 96, Houghton Lake, formerly Williamston, passed Aug 3

Linda Ellis, 73, Gladwin, passed July 28

Nora Ruth Searfoss-Thorpe, 79, Beaverton, passed July 30

Eric Hillman, 74, Beaverton, passed Aug 1

Irene 'Tootie' Catherine Hughes, 88, Tawas City, passed Aug 4

Arline Emke, 93, East Tawas, passed Aug 4

Gregory 'Greg' Lance Bradford, Sr., 71, Tawas, passed Aug 6

Julia Johanna Warren, 89, Standish, passed Aug 5

Lorne 'Bud' Elliott Cook Jr, 80, Atlanta, Michigan passed Aug 2

Linda M. (Giles) Alberts, 81, Prudenville, formerly Clio, passed Aug 3

Jerry Smith, 85, Gladwin, passed Aug 4

Larry Raymond Goedecke Sr., 75, Beaverton, passed Aug 5

Shane M Savercool, 50, Houghton Lake, passed Aug 9

Keith Allen Yost, 85, West Branch, formerly Ann Arbor and Jackson, passed Aug 10

Richard Goeb, 83, Oscoda, passed Aug 6

Allan C. Cartwright, 79, Hale, passed Aug 9

James P. Mayville, 61, Greer, SC, formerly of Oscoda, passed April 23

Betty Jean Smith, 93, Tawas City, passed Aug 11

Shirley Alberta Holowatz McCracken, 86, Sterling, passed Aug 9

Patrick Reginald Kelly, 70, Gladwin, passed Aug 9

Janice Kay Vedrode, 63, Gladwin, passed Aug 10

Roy Karsten Syversen, 86, Gladwin, passed Aug 10

Dorothy 'Jean' Bentley, 85, Beaverton, passed Aug 11

Stephen Leuenberger, 84, Gladwin, passed Aug 13

Cheryl Lee Roberts, 80, National City, passed Aug 10

Thomas 'Tom' Roiter, 80, Tawas City, passed Aug 11

Dale Leslie DuVerney, 85, Mio, passed Aug 11

William Patrick Lucksted, Sr., 83, Beaver Creek Twp, passed Aug 12

James Richard Salmon, 85, Roscommon, passed August 14

Eugene Arthur Burgeson Sr., 72, West Branch, passed Aug 15

Lewis Ollie Miller, 74, Prescott, passed Aug 14

Tammie Jo Boyer, 51, Hale, passed Aug 13

Betty Jean (Sheppard) VanAlstine, 88, Twining, passed July 27

Sharon Marie Orr, 79, Oscoda, formerly Taylor, passed July 28

Raymond Edward Bellant, Jr., 79, Oscoda, passed July 28

Mark E. 'Pops' Brodeur, 66, Hale, passed July 28

Esther Mae Rumminger, 103, Gladwin, formerly Houghton Lake, passed July 30

Robert Allen Mead, 72, Grayling, passed July 27

Nancy Lou Krey, 85, Grayling, passed July 31

James A. Madill, 87, Frederic, passed August 1

Arthur M. Chastain Jr., 80, Beaverton, passed July 30

Ernest 'Matt' Matthew Eichhorn III, 58, East Tawas, passed Aug 2

Mary Jean Gibson, 69, National City, passed Aug 2

Glenn Addison Prout, 51, St. Helen, passed July 24

Joe Patrick Gage, 71, St. Helen, passed Aug 8

Mary E. Romancky, 89, Prudenville, passed Aug 9

Kathryn 'Kathy' M. Ketelhut, 74, Grayling, formerly Houghton Lake, passed Aug 4

William Joseph Warnecke, 81, West Branch, passed Aug 6

Bernice Lillian (Westendorf) Cole, 87, Bay City, passed Aug 6

Winston 'Frenchy' Edward Lefebvre, 81, Oscoda, passed Aug 6

Gaylord Ed Lohrer, 86, Grayling, passed Aug 7

Ronald James Rakoczy, 81, Grayling, passed Aug 5

Charles 'Fred' F. Hughes, 84, Roscommon, passed July 27

Nancy L. Fagerlie, 80, Houghton Lake, passed Aug 8

Cathy Joann Maxson, 70, Piney Flats, TN, formerly Gladwin, passed Aug 13

Ruth Dorothy Weiland, 84, Hillman, passed Aug 13

Ronald Lee Corbin, 69, Grayling, passed Aug 14

Peggy Ann McDonald, 70, West Branch, passed away Aug 16

Debra Anne (Bernard) Fisher, 68, Bay City, passed Aug 13

Kevin 'Todd' Essary, 62, East Tawas, passed Aug 16

Thelma Jean Shellenbarger (Featheringill), 77, AuSable, passed Aug 16

Lorna Margaret Schlagel, 77, Omer, passed Aug 16

Robert John Budz, 81, Sterling, passed Aug 15

Leon Albert Gilbert, 82, Atlanta, passed Aug 16

Communicating with our kids

Advise from Grayling Social Worker Kari Wheeler

By Nicole Mygrants

We've all had days where plans suddenly change and we feel pulled in many directions to meet the needs of those who depend on us, challenging our hearts and our ability to adapt and overcome.

Crawford Ausable School District (CASD)

their child, one of the greatest things a parent can do for a child", Wheeler adds.

Social

Worker

Kari Wheeler has desire to make a difference for students, families, and teachers with a persistent internal belief in baby steps and progress.

Wheeler is now in her 17th year as a social worker. She works with students K-12, their parents, teachers, and school administration to meet children where they are and to provide resources, a listening ear for many voices, and a safe space for the kids.

As a social worker the job can feel heavy at times and looking for glimpses of progress is a well-honed skill in her profession. It can be challenging to believe that the impact of one in a small pocket of the world makes a real difference, but then experiences happen that remind her and others.

When asked what parents can do to support their students more fully at home, Wheeler shares that open communication at home between kids and parents is the key, and that communication about student's needs with the school helps her to make connections that better serve everyone involved. "Parents don't have to have all the answers, none of us do! Parents are also experts on their children and our goal is to collaborate to foster protective factors for our students and families. Whether through engagement tools, support for carving out quality time together, or encouragement to provide structure and nurturing for

While there thankfully has been an increase in mental health agencies and providers in the area, there tends to be children who "fly under the radar" because their needs aren't considered significant enough for local agencies or with current staffing. Each school in CASD does have a food and clothing pantry that students can use free of charge, no questions asked. Community food distributions have decreased in the past year or so, and Wheeler would love to see more of those as well as the community finding ways to solve the need for affordable housing. The area has many transient students who move from district to district due to housing issues which adds many difficulties for them, not just with schooling but also with their ability to establish friendships, to feel connected and sometimes to even have their basic needs met.

"Our students benefit the most when the adults in their lives (parents, teachers, coaches, etc.) take a step back and step down to really hear and notice what the student is communicating, what they are feeling and what they are needing. We don't need more packaged intervention programs, more reward charts, or more punishments- we need adults who can be consistent, we need adults who can expose their own vulnerabilities, we need adults who take the time to authentically connect."

Wheeler urges parents to listen, advocate, brainstorm, and connect. This will help the community and students move forward. When it comes to children, be consistent, and keep showing up.

CASD Social Worker Kari Wheeler

What did the pen say to the pencil?

What’s your point?

You should never gift anything to your history teacher.

He won’t like the present.

Mia: I think we need a new teacher.

Mum: Why is that?

Mia: Our teacher doesn't know anything; she keeps asking us for the answers.

My boss made me go into the office on Labor Day. Halfway through the day, he came in to check up on me and caught me having a beer.

He said to me, “You can’t drink while you’re working.”

I said, “Oh, don’t worry – I’m not working.”

“Labor Day is a glorious holiday because your child will be going back to school the next day. It would have been called Independence Day, but that name was already taken.”

~ Bill Dodds

Knock Knock

Who’s there?

Noah

Noah who?

Noah more summer- it’s time for school!

Early one morning, a mother went in to wake up her son.

'Wake up, son. It's time to go to school'

'But why, Mom? I don't want to go.'

'Give me two reasons why you don't want to go.'

'Well, the kids hate me for one, and the teachers hate me, too!'

'Oh, that's no reason not to go to school. Come on now and get ready.'

'Give me two reasons why I should go to school.'

'Well, for one, you're 52 years old. And for another, you're the Head teacher!'

Daughter (8): Is Aunty Diane having her baby today?

Mother: Why did you think she is about to give birth?

Daughter (8): Because you said today was Labour Day!

A crowd of about 1,000 people turned out for the event.

RELIEF SALE – The Oscoda County Fairgrounds hosted the 56th Annual Northern Michigan Relief sale the weekend of Aug. 5. The event featured food, crafts, vendors and a massive auction of quilts and furniture, including one from the

1901 Exposition and featured former President William McKinley. The event is a fundraiser designed to help the needy in countries across the world.

~ Photos by Mark Constance

Assisting with handling financial transactions were (l-r) Jenni Layman, Ann Esch, Brandon Riskovich, Mary Handrich, Stephanie Handrich and Rachelle Eastman.