Snow much fun!
ROSCOMMON COUNTY- The Higgins Lake Roscommon Chamber of Commerce will be throwing another family fun Winterfest event this year Feb. 14-16.
The event will include a pancake breakfast at Lyon Township Fire Hall, a cardboard sled race, a dog parade, fishing contests, wagons rides, a chili cookoff, and more! Visit www.hlrcc.com/chamber or find them on Facebook for more information.
IOSCO COUNTY- Don’t miss the Ice Fishing Derby held on Londo Lake Feb. 15 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
▪ See SNOW MUCH FUN! on page 5
Surviving domestic violence in Northern Michigan
By Michael Busch & Mark Constance
Editor’s note: The tragic death of an Ogemaw County woman at the hands of her husband last December prompted us to try and bring more awareness to the risks of domestic violence.
“I thought she was going to kill me”
NORTHERN MICHIGAN – Control, isolation and violence. These are the hallmarks of domestic violence (DV).
“I felt like no one was going to believe it was happening. You hope that it will get better, but it doesn't.”
to police in 2022 across the Up North Voice coverage area, which encompasses Roscommon, Ogemaw, Crawford, Oscoda and Iosco counties. The highest was Roscommon County, which averages a DV complaint every two days. (See graph)
- Carl Simmons of Ogemaw County
How common are domestic assaults in Northeast Michigan? More than you may think.
There were 567 complaints
But many instances of domestic violence are not reported. Practical concerns, such as the fear of losing what security they do have, housing, employment, and children, can complicate decision-making.
Trauma bonding
Trauma bonding, or the
2022 Incidence of Domestic Violence
Sources: US Census Bureau, Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center
relationship between offender and victim, is what keeps people together.
The victim is first treated with great affection or “love bombing.” Soon after, the abuse occurs and the offender apologizes. The victim forgives the offender and renews trust.
Yet, the cycle of love and abuse continues. The trauma bond keeps victims in place because, over time they lose their sense of identity and self-worth.
Emotional barriers can also make the situation worse. Some victims
and assume their current situation is normal.
Roscommon County Undersheriff Ben Lowe describes the victim’s perspective as living in a comfort zone.
“What we know - even if it is not the healthiest thing for us – is often where we are the most comfortable,” he said, adding that victims are caught in a trap of emotions that prevent them from leaving until the ▪ See DOMESTIC VIOLENCE on page 9
POLAR PARTY- Jennifer Brayden of Long Lake delightfully dressed for the polar lunge at this year’s Long Lake Ice Jam celebration. See more Ice Jam photos on page 23!
~ Photos by Sarah Novak.
South Branch General Store South Branch General Store
6386 E. County Line Rd. South Branch, MI 48761
(989) 257-4463
ICE SMALL HARDWARE
TEENS LEARN LIFE SAVING SKILLS- Gerrish Firefighters and EMS workers led Career and Technical Education (CTE) students while they participated in competency testing to assess their knowledge in CPR/AED and choking. The exercise began with identifying an unresponsive individual who was not breathing. Subsequently, students assigned roles to call 911, initiate CPR, perform chest compressions, administer rescue breathing, and operate the AED. Working in teams, students rotated roles every 10 minutes to
Alicia Noragon Copy Editor Alicia@UpNorthVoice.com
Mark Constance MConstance@ UpNorthVoice.com
Cheri Carpenter Cheri@UpNorthVoice.com M: 989.370.2499
Donna Thoma Writer donnathoma0@gmail.com
Jeremy Shore Houghton Lake Distribution
Axel Jacobs Roscommon Distribution
Micheala Wade West Branch Distribution
simulate a realistic scenario, gaining insight into the duration and challenges involved. These students all earned their CPR certification at the end of this weeklong class.
Tracy Constance Tracy@UpNorthVoice.com M: 419.236.0359
Paul Grabstanowicz Paul@UpNorthVoice.com M: 630.567.3263
Sarah Novak Reporter snova.kaye@gmail.com
Warren Stutesman Reporter wstutesman@gmail.com
Kristi Major Reporter thankskristi@yahoo.com
Matthew Barnes Grayling Distribution
Letter to the Editor
Conservancy urges septic inspections to protect water quality
Dear editor:
Since it appears that the lake-wide sewer system project for Higgins Lake will not be undertaken any time soon, if ever, The Higgins Lake Land Conservancy endorses the need for septic system ordinances and proper stewardship of our septic systems, especially for those systems most likely to introduce nutrients into the lake. In reviewing the six hundred plus septic system inspections that Lyon Township had conducted and understanding that the closer the septic systems are to the lakeshore, the greater the possibility of nutrient loading into the lake, the HLLC recommends that all lakefront property owners have a septic system inspection if they have not had one in the last ten years.
The land conservancy is asking that these inspections be conducted by certified health department inspectors. The reason that it is recommending Central Michigan District Health Department certified inspectors is that the results of these inspections are required to be sent to the health department for certifying the results and are then entered into the health department’s data base and are available for the public. It will result in a great tool to determine
Staying in the same small town Is not a faulty aim. Like city folks You couldn’t coax To leave the life they claim. – TOM FOBBE
effectiveness of septic systems.
It is essential that the Higgins Lake community take appropriate measures to protect the quality of the water in the lake. While following this recommendation is totally voluntary, the land conservancy strongly believes that it is all of our responsibility to do whatever we can to ensure that the septic systems around that lake are functioning properly, and if they are not, to remediate any issues to minimize any nutrient loading into the lake.
Jack Cornell, Assistant Treasurer
The Higgins Lake Land Conservancy
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY:
AuSable Media encourages all readers with a connection to the community to submit letters to the editor for possible publication. Please limit letters to 300 words. Author must include a daytime contact number. Letters are the individual opinion of 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.
Up North Voice A Division of AuSable Media, LLC
A veteran-owned business located at 709 LAKE STREET, PO BOX 113, ROSCOMMON MI 48653 • 989-275-1170
Cody Jackson Mio Distribution
“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.
free tubing and hot cocoa, 1 p.m. euchre tournament $20 entry, Hanson Hills, 7601 Old Lake Rd, Grayling
4 p.m., $20/per ticket, grand prize $5,000, drawing will take place during Blizzardfest, funding goes towards construction of a new pavilion at Hanson Hills, Handson Hills, 7601 Old Lake Rd, Grayling
8- Dixon’s Violin Concert, 7-9 p.m., $35 tickets on sale at artisanvillage.org/events/, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, downtown Grayling
14- Valentine’s Ball, 7-11 p.m., enjoy drinks, sweets, treats, and dancing, $20 tickets on sale at artisanvillage.org/event/valentinesball/, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, downtown Grayling
15- Grayling Winter Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging Crawford County Extras
Mon-Fri- Council on Aging Lunch- 11:30a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Mon-Fri- Council on Aging Dinner- 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Mon- Chess Club-1-4 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Wed- Mahjong – 1-3 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Out & About -
Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers – 10-11 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
Tues & Thurs- Zumba Gold – 10-11 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center
1st Sun. - American Legion Breakfast Buffet, at 9 a.m., American Legion Post 106
1st Tue.- Friends of a Feather- 9 a.m. Crawford County Commission on Aging
2nd Mon. - Post meeting, 7 p.m., American Legion Post 106
2nd 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
3rd Tues - Grayling American Legion Aux Post meeting, 5:30 p.m., Grayling
ROSCOMMON COUNTY: Roscommon, Higgins Lake, Prudenville, Houghton Lake, St. Helen
6- Friends of Trestle Park After Dark Winter Concert, doors open 5 p.m., 6-9 p.m., free, music from 2nd Hand, food and drink available for purchase, 7784 Stone School Rd, Houghton Lake
8- 22nd Annual Snow Run, 10 a.m., $25 ticket includes miles of groomed trails, lunch on the trail, snowpacker key tag, for more information call: 989-621-3124, 520 N St. Helen Rd, St. Helen
16- St. Helen Bluegill Daytona 500 Fundraiser, 2 p.m., all you can eat pizza and salad, adults $10, kids under 10 $5, American Legion Post 416, St. Helen
21- Trivia Night, 6 p.m., music trivia, American Legion Post 416, St. Helen
22- Winter Funfest, 1 p.m., soup cookoff, ice fishing contest, snowball throwing contest, and much more, Richfield Twp Cove Park
25- Blood Drive, 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m., American Legion Post 416, St. Helen
Roscommon County Extras
Mon - Reserve Tech HelpHoughton Lake Public Library
Mon, Thurs, Fri- St. Helen Baptist Church Food Closet, 12-3 p.m.
Mon, Thurs, Fri- AA Meeting, St Helen Baptist Church, 10-11a.m.
Tues – Roscommon Ukes Strum and Sing, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Ages 8-80, Roscommon Area District Library
Tues – AA Meeting, 7-8 p.m., St Helen Baptist Church
Tues & Thurs- AstroDurance12-1 p.m., CRAF Center, Roscommon
Wed- Dance Workout- 2:30-3:30 p.m., all ages welcome, Roscommon Area District Library
Weds- Hookers Anonymous3-7 p.m., bring your own knitting or crocheting project and socialize, Made Up North, 704 Lake St, Roscommon
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
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 Mon- Veterans Golf Event, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., free, Tee Box Indoor Golf, Houghton Lake
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, Oscoda 7-8, 75th Annual Perchville, for more information visit https://tawas. com/perchville-2025/, 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
OGEMAW COUNTY: West Branch, Rose City, Lupton
8- Fruit Tree Renovation Workshop, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m., $5, lunch provided, tree trimming demonstration, pest and disease management, and more topics covered, call 989-345-6470 ext. 5, Klacking Twp Hall, 405 N Campbell Rd, West Branch
8- CPR & First Aid Training Class, 1-5 p.m., $25/person, to register: prescottlibrary200@gmail. com, Skidway Lake Library, 2196 Greenwood, Prescott
8- Trivia Night, doors 5 p.m., dinner 6 p.m., trivia 7 p.m., $25/ person, dinner and 2 drinks tickets included, cash bar, proceeds fund the students of St. Joseph Catholic School, to reserve a table call 989345-0220, Knights of Columbus Hall 22- Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile 57th Open House, 10 a.m.-4p.m., free, over 300 antique snowmobiles, hot coffee and cocoa, raffles, OHSC Clubhouse, Frank Alley Trailhead, 2846 N Fairview Rd, West Branch Ogemaw County Extras
Weds. – BINGO, Early Birds at 6:30 p.m., Regular 7:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus off M-30 Weds. – AL-ANON meeting,
See OUT & ABOUT on page 8
Dairy a Yoder tradition
Focus on grass-fed, sustainable herd
By Mark Constance
MIO – The ground crunched beneath us as we walked toward the barn.
I was with Jason Yoder of Mio, one of Mio's milk providers. Yoder and his wife, Lillian, operate the Kittle Road farm while raising five children in a home just up the street from their farm.
Dairy is in the family's blood.
The Yoders have been in the Mio area since 1971, when Jason's grandfather, Joseph, moved north from Middlefield, Ohio. He purchased the family's original homestead, which is now owned by Jason's Uncle Mark.
Jason's brother, Simon, works on a 400-head operation in Ellsworth.
Lillian also comes from a family of dairy farmers, moving to Mio from Iowa when she was very young. The couple's oldest sons, Ethan and Austin are now helping with chores.
His father, Joseph Jr., purchased the farm Jason currently works in 1985. He changed it to a dairy farm in 1990.
“We milk twice a day at 4:30 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m.,” he said. “And my father helps me milk every morning,” Jason said.
Much has changed since 1990. When Joseph Jr. started the dairy, milking was done by hand. Today, it's done by machine, with power coming from a diesel generator outside the barn, which uses a pulley system to drive a compressor.
Joseph said the current farm is an extension of his original 10-acre parcel.
“I remember back when we bought it there was a swail, full of tag alders we had to clear out,” Joseph said with a look that let you know it was a lot of work to clean up that space. “We wanted to have as much open land as we could.”
When he isn't helping with the farm, Joseph teaches students at one of the area's five schools.
The biggest difference between the early part of the farm and today was not technology, but marketing.
“Back then we were conventional,” he said. “We milked and sold our product on our own. It was very inconsistent.
and
Snow much fun!
Continued from page 1
Hot dogs and cocoa provided, and prizes given for adults and kids!
CRAWFORD COUNTY- There will be a Full Moon Snowshoe Hike at Hartwick Pines State Park on Sat., Feb. 15. Snowshoe fitting begins at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the approximately 2-mile hike through unbroken
snow on the unplowed road to the campground and back. The hike is appropriate for all skill levels and hikers do not have to hike the entire 2 miles. Event is free but a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry to the park. Call the Visitor Center with questions 989-348-2537 or message the park on Facebook.
“Now we have our own processing and distribution company, The Farmer's Creamery. It gives people work and we can get milk to market faster.”
At any give time, Jason has between 75-80 head, including calves. He exclusively used a breed of cows named Fleckvieh, which among other attributes, is easier to digest.
Cows are grass fed all summer and feed is supplemented with hay in the winter. The 80-acre farm has 60 acres of open grassland. The balance is kept under plow for the planting
are a mainstay of the operation.
“We use a four-horse team for just about everything including plowing and hauling,” Jason said.
Raw milk is transported through a local trucking company owned by David Martin and his sons. Milk is retained in a holding tank and Martin picks up the raw product three times a week for delivery to the Farmer's Creamery.
Although the hours and work prove to be difficult, especially in the winter months, Jason said it's in his blood.
“I've been farming my entire life,”
A view of the Yoder Farm on Kittle Road from the East.
Cows are fed hay in the winter,
grass-fed all summer.
Child’s police encounter sparks career
By Donna Thoma –donnathoma0@gmail.com
ROSCOMMON- Receiving a call from a Michigan State Police (MSP) officer, is often daunting. However, when single mom, Aimie Burtis received a call from Sergeant Scott Bates, of the MSP in 2006, it proved to be a life directing experience for her son Calvin.
Calvin and his siblings, brother Patrick Burtis and sister Makayla Caster, were invited by MSP Sgt. Bates, to take part in the “Shop With A Cop” program to be held at the Houghton Lake Walmart that December.
Then five-year-old Calvin was paired with Sheriff's Deputy Mike Zrebski for the program and a bond was formed. That bond was not only to officer Zrebski, but to law enforcement.
Caster said when he was little, he'd run around the house saying, “I want to be a cop!” “I want to be a cop!” Occasionally adding - “so I can eat all the donuts I want!”
is helpful, not only during the teen years, but throughout life.
During Caster's junior and senior high years, he spent time working on a farm owned by former Richfield police Chief, Brad Bannon. That was a new experience for Caster, never having worked with large animals, especially buffalo. Castor found the work rewarding, and the friendship with Bannon continues.
Graduating in 2019, Caster went on to study at Mid Michigan Community College and Kirtland Community College. For a time, he worked in construction, but knew he didn't want to spend his life “swinging a hammer,” but was still trying to figure out this “big adult life.” It was during that period he began to ask himself “what DO you want out of life?”
Aimie encouraged her children to read, and Caster's brother Patrick himself a voracious reader, encouraged Caster as well. Caster enjoyed his years at Houghton Lake Schools, citing positive encouragement from teachers and staff during his time there.
He credits former basketball coach, Jeff Goodwin (current high school principal) and former football coach Joe Holloway, with helping to keep him on track during his high school years. Caster remarked, “in my teen years, there was so much questioning and discernment about the future, and life in general.” Having positive role models, he feels
Caster, Patrick and Makayla always wanted to help people, even as youngsters. He personally credits the drive to help others, as “the motivation to pursue a career.” October of 2023, during one of Bannon's “daily” calls to Caster, Bannon suggested Caster go to the Roscommon County Sheriff’s office and put in an application, as they were hiring.
Caster did, and for the month and a half following, he “pestered” Lieutenant Beck every day - to see if his background check went through, if there were any updates on hiring, had the lieutenant heard anything? November of 2023 he finally received the call that he was to come in and “shadow” in Corrections.
Caster finds the work “rewarding.” Interacting with those incarcerated and trying to help some
▪ See LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREER on page 7
Calvin Caster
Law enforcement career
Continued from page 6
of them see a better path forward, is fulfilling. While there are those who will always be in the system, some can and do change.
For Caster, continued mentorship and friendship of law enforcement officers from the age of five, has been, and continues to be a blessing for him and his family.
Caster sees a need for adults to become mentors to youth. He believes that perhaps a “Big Brother's” type program may be advantageous in this area.
In his estimation, youth may not “be different” as some say however, they are impacted by electronics, technology, and surrounded by more “glam,” than youth in the past. Castor believes, many youths of today, are confused and feel unwanted in the world. Each generation is different and comes with its own issues.
For adults interacting with youth, Caster suggests “patience and understanding.” In the past the world was slower, and children
Ski race fundraiser
grew up working next to mom, dad, grandparents, aunts and uncles, learning life skills. Much of that has been lost over the years.
Having served on the Roscommon Township Fire Department for a short time, he noted the lack of volunteerism. That lack is across the board, affecting all avenues of life, especially youth.
Caster also expressed concern with so much negative media in recent years affecting law enforcement. He believes that sort of reporting is also causing some of the shortage in law enforcement recruitment.
Caster will attend the Academy at Kirtland Community College beginning in February. He was to have gone last year, however, there was a shortage of sheriff department personnel at the time.
The Shop With A Hero program, formerly Shop With A Cop, is led locally by the Houghton Lake Post of the Michigan State Police. In Roscommon County this includes MSP, Roscommon County Sheriff's Officers, other area law enforcement agencies, DNR, Court Officers, EMTs, Victim Service Unit, firefighters, and Houghton Lake Rotary.
Children are generally nominated by their teachers and community members to take part in the program each December.
GRAYLING- On Sun., Mar. 2, there will be a ski race held at Hanson Hills in Grayling benefiting the Middle and High School Ski Teams.
Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and awards will be given by age and
gender. Your entry fee includes your lift ticket as well as a potluck. All ages and abilities are welcome!
For more information, contact Carey Jansen, careysjansen@gmail. com or 248-961-3056.
RINGING IN CHRISTMAS CHEER- Laura Loeffler, Secretary of the FISH Organization and Brian Loeffler, Iosco County Commissioner volunteered as Bell Ringers representing the Tawas Methodist Church. Both individuals donated their time to help the Salvation Army.
Out & About
Continued from page 4
8 p.m., 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First Street
Weds. – Preschool Storytime, 11 a.m., West Branch District Library
Thurs. – Optimist Club, 7 a.m., Loggers Depot, 314 Houghton Avenue
1st & 2nd Mon. – City Council meeting, 6 p.m., West Branch City Hall, 121 N. Fourth Street
2nd Mon. - Kiwanis Young Professional Club, 6 p.m., Highway Brewing Company
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., Chamber building
1st Tues – Book Lover’s Lunch, 12- 1 p.m., West Branch District Library
1st & 3rd Tues. – Kiwanis Club of West Branch, at Noon, China Inn
1st Weds. – Women’s Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Safe Haven Doula, 322 W Houghton Ave
1st Wed.- Ogemaw County Veterans Coffee Hour- 9-10 a.m.
1st & 3rd Thurs. - Newborn Parent Support Group, 6 p.m., MyMichigan Health West Branch in the Executive Dining Room
1st Thurs. – Ogemaw County Fair Board meeting, 7 p.m., meets in main building
2nd Wed. – Aktion Club, Noon, First United Methodist Church, 2490 State Rd
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. - Ogemaw Area Swim Boosters 6 p.m., Ogemaw Heights High School Room 210
OSCODA COUNTY:
Mio, Fairview, Luzerne, Comins 15-Winter Cornhole at the Legion, 4:30 p.m., $15, no partner needed, 6 games guaranteed, Luzerne American Legion Post 162, 3590 Legion Dr 21-23-Luzerne Area Predator Round-Up, statewide contest, hunt begins 7 p.m. Friday and ends 3 p.m. Sunday, $50/person by 5 p.m. February 14, $60/person after the 14th, youth up to 17 years old $25, several prizes, for more information
and an application call: 989-8268050, Luzerne Hardware, 2244 Deeter Rd
22- Youth Squirrel Hunt, squirrels must be turned in no later than 3 p.m., 15 and under only, limit 5 squirrels, prizes, for more information and registration contact: 989-826-8050, Luzerne Hardware
Oscoda County Extras
2nd and 4th Fri- Clothes Closet for Adults- 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.- Comins Community Church- 4263 W. First St. Comins
3rd Thurs- Craft Day- 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.- TriPoint Church of God- 831 W. Miller, Mio
Every Mon- Bible Study- 10 a.m. & 7 p. m. - Living Water Lutheran Church, 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 Weds- Men's Fellowship10 a.m.- Living Water Lutheran Church
Every Weds- Women's Bible Study- 10 a.m. Living Water's Lutheran Church
Every Thurs- Men's Group- 7 p.m.-TriPoint Church of God- for more info call Gene 989-350-0638
1st Fri- Fish Fry Dinner, Luzerne American Legion, 4:30-7 p.m.
OTHER REGIONS:
7-8, Annual Sno*Drift Rally, national performance car, stage rally, 50 competition cars, for more information visit https://www.SnoDrift.org, Atlanta
15- Alpena Ice Fest, 9 a.m.-8 p.m., ice sculptures, food trucks and other ice related activities Mich-e-kewis Park, 1302 S State Ave, Alpena 15- Kid’s Free Fishing Tournament, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., youth 15 and under, door prizes and trophies awarded, warming area, bait, poles and fishing holes provided, Richardson Rd boat launch, Jewell Lake, Barton City
1st Mon-Tot Time- 10 a.m., Fife Lake Library
4th Weds- Cheboygan Co Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. -Cheboygan VFW
4th Thurs- Alpena Veteran's Coffee Hour- 9 a.m. Art in the Loft
Every Friday- Yoga- 9 a.m., video led, contact cwilcox@tadl.org, Fife Lake Library
WINTER WONDERLAND- William (3), Franky (8), and Josie (7) Frank of Mio enjoying the abundance of snow as they zip around the yard on their snowmobile.
Domestic Violence
Continued from page 1
situation is out of control.
“Most of the time the concern is that victims need to realize they need help.”
The breaking point
Ask any DV survivor about their experience and they mention two things about their abuser: The need to exercise power over the relationship.
“The control started pretty early on,” said Patti Carter of Roscommon County. “There was a lot of jealousy over my friends and my family. Anyone who cared about me.”
Carter said initially she wasn’t consciously aware of what was happening. Within the first six months of starting the relationship, physical violence began.
“It’s a lot more subtle than people think it is. It starts verbally and progresses to physical. You just kind of get used to it,” she said.
water pushed him to report to police. His partner also loaded three weapons. She had taken his truck keys, cell and wallet.
“I thought she was going to kill me,” he said. “When I got to the Michigan State Police post, two troopers came around the corner to talk to me and I just started crying. Going to the police was the toughest thing I have had to do.
“I was broken and damaged, physically and emotionally,” Simmons added.
Carter was able to escape her relationship with the support of her friends and family. But she said support is just one component of the “leaving” process.
“The control started pretty early on. There was a lot of jealousy over my friends and my family.”
-
Patti Carter of Roscommon County
Carl Simmons of Ogemaw County is a veteran who served two tours in the Middle East. He's physically much larger than his abuser.
“I felt like no one was going to believe it was happening because I was so much bigger than her. So I didn't tell anyone.” he said. “I just took the abuse. You hope that it will get better, but it doesn't.
“I spent two tours overseas and I felt safer there than I did in my own home.”
Simmons said he ignored the most obvious sign of abuse: Isolation. He hadn't spoken with his family in more than a decade, but has since reached out to rebuild those relationships.
He said an incident with scalding
“I started therapy about a year before I got the courage to leave,” she said. “I had to make myself stronger to do it.”
She worked with the therapist to create a safety and escape plan. When the time came to move, the situation at home became even more hostile. She fled to a women’s shelter for a brief time, but continued to work, and found a support group.
As Carter looks back on the experience, she said, “It's been difficult, but when you look back at it you can see how awful it was and how it affected the people around me.
“I've put a lot of work into regaining my relationships with friends and family because I had been keeping a secret. I was isolated from them so much.”
The law and it's affect on victims
If pursued, many domestic violence complaints end in convictions. But that doesn't make
the process any easier.
In Simmons' case, there was a conviction, but the penalty was a delayed sentence, where the conviction will be dismissed after a period of time if his partner doesn't commit any more crimes.
“You serve more time in jail for a DUI than you do for domestic violence,” Simmons said. “But they look at a complaint like that's the only time it happened, but it happened many times before.”
Carter's initial experience with the law and DV was when she tried to leave. She had texts and audio recordings of abuse of her and her animals, but had never reported it, despite having a loaded shotgun poked into her chest.
Police came to the house and told her she could leave, but said her son had to stay with her abuser. She stayed because she had to. But not for long.
Her situation came to a head when she finally fled to a family member's home. She was later granted a personal protection order (PPO) while staying at the Women's Resource Center in Traverse City with her 3-year-old son.
There were convictions of her abuser for multiple PPO violations, but was just fined because the convictions were considered a first offense.
What it
takes to leave
Simmons encourages victims to file their complaint with the Michigan State Police or a shelter.
River House Crisis Line: 989-348-3169 riverhouseinc.org
Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center (CAC) (989) 275-7145 nmcac4kids.org/ office@nmcac4kids.org
CAC Roscommon Center 112 S 4th St., Roscommon, MI 48653
CAC Tawas City Center 716 German St., Tawas City, MI 48763
Women’s Resource Center 231-941-1210
720 S Elmwood, Ste 2 Traverse City, MI 49684 womensresourcecenter.org
He said the process of reporting an assault can be traumatic.
“You need to go deep,” he said. “It takes a lot. You have to decide whether you want to do this the rest of your life. You need to decide you want to get better and that you want to get out.
“Because it only gets worse.”
Note from Mark Constance: Carter and Simmons had their names changed to protect their identity as victims. Both were personally interviewed by Mike Busch and myself. I can be reached at 989-275-1170 or mconstance@ upnorthvoice.com.
▶ Watch for the second part of the Up North Voice series on Domestic Violence in the March issue.
Embracing the outdoors
Toad's Stool
By Warren "Toad" Stutesman
Hello, my friends, is February not such a wonderful month? I know that it has me wondering why I am here in the deep freeze.
I cannot go away as I am frozen to the ground. Besides that, the rest of the country seems to be sharing our wonderful winter this year. Isn't it nice to have enough of something that we can share. Do you hear that Alabama and the other southern states? You are welcome.
My birds have been gathering about the feeders rather abundantly as of late. I am sure happy to be able to help feed them through this cold time. And in return I get to view their beautiful plumage.
The turkeys that have now taken up permanent residence in my yard are really starting to talk. Lots of young guys are trying out their voices. I know that come warm weather, they will be moving on and starting harems of their own but I do hope that one group will stay local so we can enjoy the strutting.
The other day my granddaughter Geneva was watching the bird feeders with me when the sun shone forth and she says, “I hate the sun”. Well, I said “what”!? She then went
on to say that it was in her eyes, and she couldn't see the birds. I guess that is understandable, but please no one curse the sun in the winter. I would not want the sun to be insulted and say well then good-bye and leave us to a long and chilly winter with no reprieve.
My three boys (Zebulon, Caleb and Nathanael) got together in January for a fishing trip. Let’s just say that the trip was a success and that there is more to a day of fishing than catching and cleaning them. Maybe next time they get together they will go fish catching but we shall see. In fairness to them, I did check with others fishing that day and no one was catching anything. But where is the fun of being fair? Teasing and rubbing it in is a lot more enjoyable for me.
I know that this is not in our area exactly, but Michigan is hosting the World Ice Fishing Championship this year. It will be held on Tamarack Lake in Lakeview, Michigan from February 12-16. It is the 21st annual competition and will bring anglers from ten different countries.
The tournament will span five days with three days of practice fishing followed by two days of competition where the athletes will contend for gold, silver and bronze medals. This will be the first time as a catch and release event.
Well, that's our visit for this month and I look forward to seeing you all next month. Please help keep our woods and waters clean.
You won’t find tall buildings here Or anywhere nearby. Which means that we
Can clearly see A lot more of the sky.
– TOM FOBBE
Paul Harris winner
ROSCOMMON – Fred Walsh of Higgins Lake was awarded his fourth Paul Harris Award by the Roscommon Rotary Club on Jan. 16. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributed in their name, $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation.
- Photo by Mark Constance / Up North Voice.com
NEW OFFICERS SWORN INTO SERVICE- Oscoda County held their Oath of Office Ceremony for all elected officials from the November election. Pictured: Tom Siegler-Road Commissioner, William Kendall-Treasurer, Libby Marsh-County Clerk, Cassandra Morse-Bills-Presiding Judge, Jackie Bondar-Commissioner D3, Chuck Varner-Commissioner Chairman, Ted Handrich-Commissioner D4, Joe Breaugh-Commissioner D5, and Taylor Kann-Sheriff.
~ Photo by Sarah Novak.
DODGEBALL SHOWDOWN- The Roscommon Project Graduation put on the “Me and My Son” Dodgeball event on Fri., Jan. 31 at Roscommon Elementary School. The event featured a Superhero and Villains theme and was open to RES students grades K-4 and their accompanying adult.
are all volunteers for the Claws and
PURRFECT FUNDRAISER - The Pints & Pretzels for Pets was held at Clear Lake Bar on Jan. 11. For every draft beer or soda pint combined with a pretzel order, the bar donated $2.24 to the Claws & Paws Rescue. There were kitties to cuddle, live music, and raffles to create a fun winter evening. The duo Kat & Wil performed and graciously donated their tips from the evening to the rescue. ~ By Sarah Novak.
Pictured (l-r) Mary Koliba, Chris Srda, Carolyn Porth, and Traci Gendregske
Paws Rescue.
Tip Up Town
ROSCOMMON COUNTY- Tip-Up Town in Houghton Lake is Michigan's oldest winter festival. It began in 1950 to celebrate ice fishing and community spirit. Activities include ice races, kids tent, fishing contest, vendors and polar plunges, it attracts thousands of people.
~ Photos by Mark Constance, Donna Thoma, and courtesy photos.
Todd Taylor with his family visited TUT on the opening weekend.
The infamous ice slide was a hit as usual at TUT.
Mark Richter and Sandy Napierski claim the prize for Best of Theme for NCACU’s Float “A Charming Tradition for 75 years!”
Woodcarving displays for enjoyment and purchase at this year’s TUT.
Sandy Lechich was hanging out with Tip Up Town Queen Jenny VanDuinen at Garret's Pressure Crack.
fun and fish
during the first weekend of TUT on Jan. 18.
Left: Our furry friends were invited to enter the “Tip Pup” Town dog show.
Right: The Houghton Lake Eagles Club 3201 had a great time celebrating TUT.
Bottom-Right: Susie of Houghton Lake caught this nice Largemouth Bass on Jan. 24.
Bottom-Left: The Polar Bear Plunge did not disappoint and attracted a huge crowd.
Carlie Wilson and Lisa Pamame of NCACU participated in the Tip Up Town parade.
Matthew Miller caught this nice Smallmouth Bass on a tip-up
BOYS BASKETBALL HIGHLIGHTS-
Pictured above: Charlton Heston’s Ryan Romancky (12) going in for the block against Hale.
Pictured right: Charlton Heston’s Dylan Cichowski (20) and Dillon Teed (24) playing against Tawas.
Heston Academy.
Send your photos, calendar items, announcements and club events to: info@UpNorthVoice.com
~ Photos courtesy of Shelby Wisnowski, an 11th grader from Charlton
HALE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH – Hale Area Schools have selected their January Students of the Month. Pictured (front, l-r) R. Simpson, A. Culton, S. Newcomb, (middle) R. Hainley, E. Wolkens, B. Hendrickson, S. Pettingill, B. Brownlee, B. Farrand, and (back) B. Sheldon, L. Sunseri, P. Downing, W. Jaremba, I. Barkholz, E. Scott and E. Bernard.
~ Photo by Cordelia Streeter
Polar vortex
View From the Comfy Chair
By Joel Vernier
It was time to go out and get the mail, a highlight for this retired fellow, even on a bitterly cold day. We were enduring a "Polar Vortex!" It has been under 32 degrees, freezing temperatures for the last 3 weeks! Most mature people prefer that the temperature continues to rise with their age! If you are 75, you like 75 degrees ambient temperature. If you are 85, you prefer 85 degrees, and so on.
I decided to confront the cold head-on. I have lived in Michigan all my life, so I laugh at the cold. I'm a tough Michigander, and I need to get my mail! I get up, throw off my plug-in electric throw blanket, and head to the closet for my survival gear. I survey the myriads of warm gear and make my selection. I throw on all my winter layers. I wear long johns, a vest, snow pants, a neck warmer, a hat, gloves, goggles, boot over socks, boots, and my heavy-duty warm waterproof hooded winter coat. I'm ready to go out into the Polar Vortex.
I call the dogs, we get into the garage, close the door to the house and push the garage door opener. Being in the garage was cold enough but venturing out into the "Cold Cruel World!" caught my attention. The dogs ran out into the frigid air as if it was 75 degrees. They have an extra layer of fat that keeps them warm. I just have an extra layer of fat. I took a few steps onto the driveway and noticed a few things. First, it hit me like a brick wall; that's because I slipped and hit my brick wall. Then, when I breathed in, it was so cold it pinched my lungs. My eyes started to water; any exposed skin began to tingle.
Was it Jack Frost nipping at my nose? It was so cold that my dogs ran up to me with snow beards from sniffing in the snow. I became brave, gathered my wits about me, and walked onto the snow; it made a crunching noise as I walked. The kind of cold that you cannot make a snowman because the snow won't pack; it just flakes around in your gloves and dissipates in a cold gust of wind. I carefully wandered out, walking on the snowy, icy driveway en route to the mailbox. I looked like a professional tightrope walker. I pried open the frozen mailbox door, grabbed the mail, then slipped & slid my way back into the garage, called my dogs in, and closed the door. Mission accomplished, but I was cold! I felt like Frosty the Snowman! I hoped that I did not have frostbite; I had been out in the cold for at least 5 or 6 minutes.
I just could not seem to get warm. I tried all my warm-up tricks. My favorite way to warm up is to climb into my "Comfy Chair" and cocoon myself in a heavy electric throw. I wrap myself tightly, and I get warm in a few minutes. If that doesn't work, I move to the couch, cocoon up again, then call over my dogs, have one dog lay against me and one sit in my lap. It reminds me of the rock band "Three Dog Night!" I had done that in the past when I had 3 dogs. Next, I consume vast quantities of hot beverages, tea, coffee, hot cocoa, soups, anything that imparts warmth! Still cold, shivering, just cold to the bone. There are a lot of terms to describe being cold; It's chilly, brisk, bitter, biting, freezing, frosty, glacial, numbing, piercing, raw, subzero, and it goes on!
My last resort should always be my first! After cocooning, I flip on the fireplace with my remote, sip my coffee, eat a keto cookie, and the warmth breaks out all over! Stay warm, my friends!
Remember, every day is a gift! Some are just a little more fun to open than others.
OSCODA COUNTY ARTIST OF THE MONTH- Jaleesa (Handrich) Cote is February’s Artist of the month. Jaleesa was born and raised in Mio and art has always been her passion. She enjoys photography, drawing, and painting with watercolor. She shares her love of art with her three children, Josie, Sedona, and Cash.
Beat the winter blues
By Suzanne Barker, Director of the Oscoda County Council on Aging.
Hello February! Well, winter didn’t come in too bad, but we have had some decent snow and those days in January with the negative temperatures and even worse wind chill temperatures were sure rough. This is the time of year a lot of us tend to get the wintertime blues. One way to help with that is to try to get outside at least once a day, even for just a few minutes. Take the dog out, sit on the porch for a couple minutes, or get the mail if you can do that safely. Of course, if the temperature or the wind chills are at those ridiculous single or negative digits, you shouldn’t attempt to go outside. If it is too snowy or cold to go outside, then any sunshine or daylight even can help. Open the blinds or curtains and sit in front of the window for a bit. Try to keep yourself busy with puzzles, crosswords, coloring, or small projects or crafts, you could even play solitaire. If possible, try to connect with a family member or friend daily. Just a few minutes of conversation can make a difference in your mood. It is also helpful to keep yourself warm enough in the house. Some of us like to dial down the heat to save money, but if we are cold it can add to our depression. So, if you’re dialing down, add a sweater and warm socks.
February is most known for Valentines Day. Traditionally
Valentines Day is associated with couple love. I believe we should just treat it as a day of love for all! We can each try to do a loving act of kindness for someone else. A family member, friend, or even a stranger. A simple act of a homemade card, helping with a chore, holding a door open, or greeting a passerby with a big smile and a have a wonderful day comment. We can all make a difference just by making a small effort and hopefully causing a ripple effect with our actions. Give it a try, spreading joy feels great!
The food boxes happening this month are the CSFP (cheese box) will be on Fri., Feb. 14, at 12 p.m. at the Tri-Point Church of God. The Together We Can Food Pantry box will be on Thurs., Feb. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They ask that you bring ID to show you live in the county, and a banana box if you have one. If they run out of boxes before 2:30 they will be gone. This food box happens at the fairgrounds.
The Council on Aging for the month of December delivered 2309 meals to our Home Delivered Meal clients and served 312 meals to congregate diners that come in for lunch.
The Council’s Board meeting will be on Mon., Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
February’s full moon, also called the Snow Moon, will be beautifully shining on the 12th. Hope you get to see it!
There is always at least one thing to be grateful for daily. Have a wonderful month and keep smiling! Share those smiles to brighten someone else’s day too. Please be kind, it is such an easy thing to do!
To contact Suzanne, please call 989 826-3025.
ROSCOMMON COUNTYExciting sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available for your business at all Big Brothers Big Sisters events in Roscommon County for the year.
There is a Bowl For Kids’ Sake
Sponsor (spring), a Golf Outing Sponsor (summer), and a Comedy Sponsor (fall).
Please call Pam Kincaid with any questions about sponsorships and events at 989-387-2165 or email jeffcalhoun35@gmail.com.
Kevin Stone
See answer on page 19
Relive the magic!
ROSCOMMON – The Roscommon PTO is hosting an Adult Prom with this year’s theme, the “Roaring 20’s.” The event will take place Sat., Feb. 22 from 7 – 11 p.m. at the Ralph A. MacMullen Conference Center.
Get into the spirit with flapper dresses, feathered headbands, pinstripe suits, and fedoras! Of course, prom attire is also perfectly acceptable and encouraged as well.
This event is for ages 21+ only.
The event will have music and dancing to classic and current hits with DJ Maze Stephan, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a photo booth.
All funds raised will go towards playground upgrades for Roscommon Elementary School.
Tickets are on sale now at https://2025-adult-prom.cheddarup. com.
Christmas tree drawing held
By Donna Thoma
HOUGHTON LAKEKabinetree Koncepts, Inc. of Houghton Lake, held their sixth annual, nonprofit organization, Christmas ornament drawing on December 23. Each year, nonprofits are encouraged to place ornaments on the Christmas tree, located outside the business. Individuals may nominate an organization, or organizations may selfnominate. Multiple ornaments per organization may be placed on the tree. Five organizations
had ornaments placed on the tree for 2024. For the drawing, an employee of Kabinetree Koncepts, Inc. placed all the names in a bucket for the Facebook Live drawing.
Alissa Verden pulled the slip from the bucket, awarding the Roscommon County Sheriff's Victim Service Unit (VSU) $500. Owner, Koreen Pray oversaw the drawing. Roscommon County Sheriff's Deputy, A. Martin and his partner, Deputy E. Sharrow nominated VSU for the award.
Book your spring field trip!
By Kalsa Parker Browning, Education DirectorMarguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve
ROSCOMMON COUNTY-
The Gahagan Nature Preserve is offering environmental education field trips to elementary and middle school students this spring. Summer educational field trips can also be scheduled for year-round or summer school programs.
Outdoor experiences are tailored to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for grades K-7. A given field trip can cover a variety of subjects and issues, including pond studies, plant and animal defense strategies, migration, hibernation,
habitat needs, camouflage, food webs, physical science, watersheds, and other topics.
Instruction and subject matter are focused to teacher request or appropriate grade level science objectives. Field trips offer a guided interaction with nature that is just not possible within school grounds. As classrooms become more technology oriented, the opportunity for students to interact with the outdoors is limited. Field trips allow for hands-on educational experiences for students, engaging their senses while nurturing their social, physical, and emotional well-being.
For more information or to schedule a field trip for your classroom or group, contact info@ gahagannature.org. Schedule your trip today! The Gahagan Nature Preserve is located at 585 Southline Rd, Roscommon, MI 48653.
Members of VSU and the deputies were on hand January 10 to receive the $500 check.
Back (l-r) Deputy Martin, Deputy Sharrow, Jann Lehman Ed Thoma and Donna Thoma. Front (l-r) Koreen Pray (Owner), Sandy Egbers, and Nancy Smitz.
Scholarship opportunities for Rosco youth
By Suzanne Luck, Executive Director - RCCF
for multiple scholarships that align with your educational goals.
ROSCOMMON COUNTYIt’s that exciting time of year again—scholarship season at the Roscommon County Community Foundation (RCCF)! The application period for college and trade school scholarships opened on January 1 and you have until March 1 to submit your applications. This program is designed to support students who are currently enrolled or planning to enroll in accredited college or trade programs.
To apply for these scholarships, you must meet a few requirements. You need to have a grade point average of at least 2.25 or a GED test score of 145 or higher. Additionally, you'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to demonstrate your need for financial assistance.
The application process is straightforward and user-friendly. You will answer some questions, and the application will indicate which scholarships you qualify for. With just one application, you can apply
Whether you're a high school senior about to graduate, a current college student looking to further your education, or someone who has recently earned their GED, the Roscommon County Community Foundation (RCCF) offers numerous scholarships to assist you. This is a fantastic opportunity to secure financial support for your studies, so don't let it pass you by!
Additionally, RCCF provides five Summer Enrichment Scholarships for students in grades 5 to 11 who attend Roscommon Area Public Schools. These scholarships can be used for activities such as music camps or sports camps. The deadline to apply for the Summer Enrichment Scholarships is March 17. To apply, visit our website at myrccf.org/ summer-enrichment-scholarships/. There, you’ll find all the information you need and the application in a fillable form that can be downloaded and completed. Please submit the completed application via email or drop it off at our office by March 17. For more information about scholarships and the application process, visit our website at myrccf. org, call RCCF staff at 989.275.3112, or email us at info@myrccf.org. We’re here to help you achieve your academic dreams!
SNOW MAGIC- Connor, Nathan, and Olivia Shnowski visiting from Victoria Texas and seeing snow for the first time! Connor was frustrated stacking snowballs, so he decided to make a “melted snowman.”
My version of Iditarod
Home Country By Slim Randles
They are getting ready now, wondering if the race will bring prize money, glory to their dogs, or just some quiet laughter from the other mushers.
The Iditarod Trail.
It has come to mean “The Trail” to dog mushers and kennel owners all over the state of Alaska and in a lot of other places.
There are other long distance dogsled races now. We know that. But the Iditarod started all that “long, cold camping trip” stuff. And I was lucky to be a part of that very first Iditarod in March of 1973.
Strangely enough, each musher has a list of life-saving equipment and food on that sled. Unfortunately, when they check a musher’s lungs
and heart, they forget to test the brain. The race would probably be run quicker and more efficiently, but it undoubtedly wouldn’t be as much fun.
In my closet, hanging on a hook where it’s been for more than half a century, is a handmade down parka covered with gold-colored heavy cloth. I wear it every year on the first Saturday in March to remind me of the race and of a woman named Pam who made it for me. We lost Pam this last year, but she was the eyes and ears and ambulance dispatcher of the first few races. And she was my wife, then, too.
I was injured about 300 miles into this thousand-mile race and was rescued by military helicopter. I started the race with seven dogs, as that was the minimum and then the minimum was changed to nine dogs.
So if you find yourself somewhere between Anchorage and Nome and you see tired people and cold dogs with icicles hanging on them. Smile and say you send greetings from Seven-Dog Slim. Will you? Thanks.
Calling All Writers!
The Up North Voice is looking for freelance writers. If you have interest in local events, interviews with community members, and have a passion for writing, we want to talk to you! Please email alicia@upnorthvoice.com for more information.
Snowmobile Club offering scholarship
REGION- The Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club (OHSC), a nonprofit club, is pleased to offer a $500 scholarship to one 2025 graduating high school senior from West Branch-Rose City Area Schools, Hale Area Schools, or WhittemorePrescott Area Schools who have been involved in snowmobile activities.
The scholarship is aimed at supporting and encouraging local students as they continue their educational journey at a higher education institution or trade school. The club encourages and supports snowmobile activities, good sportsmanship, and protection of the wilderness.
To be eligible for the scholarship, the applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. GPA of 2.0 or better
2. Completed application
3. Letter of recommendation from school administrator, teacher, coach or school counselor
4. Previous or current involvement/interest in snowmobiling
Scholarship applications must be submitted by March 17 via U.S. mail to: OHSC P.O. Box 681 Rose City, MI 48654 or email to: info@ ohsconline.com.
The scholarship will be presented at the Senior Awards Assembly at their high school. The winner will be introduced at the OHSC clubhouse located at: Frank Alley Park-2846 North Fairview Rd. West Branch, on May 10.
Additional information can be found on the OHSC website www. ohsconline.com
GRAYLING HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMANCE- Grayling High School presented “Radium Girls” in mid-December and the play was a huge success. Chad Patterson directed over 50 students in cast and crew in this memorable appearance.
UKERS BRING JOY TO RETIREMENT HOME- The “Rosco Ukers” played for Mission Pointe residents on Jan. 30. ~ Photo by Donna Thoma
What’s the difference between you and a calendar?
A calendar has a date for Valentine’s Day.
Why should you never laugh at your significant other's choices?
Because you’re one of them!
Roses are red, violets are blue … I bought chocolate and ate it too.
Me: “What will I do on break?”
Husband: “Party like it’s 1999.”
“My boyfriend and I met online and we’d been dating for over a year. I introduced Hans to my uncle, who was fascinated by the fact that we met over the Internet. He asked Hans what kind of line he had used to pick me up. Ever the geek, Hans naively replied, ‘I just used a regular 56K modem.'”
A woman came home, screeching her car into the driveway, and ran into the house.
She slammed the door and shouted at the top of her lungs, 'Honey, pack your bags. I won the lottery!'
The husband said, 'Oh my God! What should I pack, beach stuff or mountain stuff?'
'Doesn't matter,' she said. 'Just get out.'
Me: “Ugh, I didn’t grab my tablet and phone!”
Husband: *Patting his pockets* “I don’t have my phone, either.”
Happy, that’s just what we are, Most always quite content. And that’s because We is and was Without much need to vent.
– TOM FOBBE
PASTY MAKING MACHINE – The Christmas in the Village committee and the Roscommon VFW Post 4159 partnered to make hundreds of pasties as a fundraiser for the December event.
Pictured in the kitchen are (front, l-r) Tammy Menghini, Jackie Moore, (back) Pam Tucker, Janice Kasik, Lori Mattingly, Teri McGee and Pat Mattingly.
Pictured in the dining room are (front) Emersyn Cavanagh, (middle, l-r) Kassidy Moore, Vicky Fuerst, Denise Becker, Jeanne Cavanagh, (back) John Fuerst and Jim Tucker. ~ Photos by Mark Constance / UpNorthVoice.com
Denise A. Love, 69, Roscommon, passed Dec 17
Mary L. Ricketts, 71, Higgins Lake formerly Midland, passed Dec 13
Virginia A. LeBlanc, 90, St. Helen, passed Dec 20
Bonnye Gail Skornicka, 74, Tawas City, passed Dec 14
Terri L. Lamrock, 66, Oscoda, passed Dec 16
Clara E. Miller, 94, Fairview, passed Dec 18
Cora O. Terry, 89, West Branch, passed Dec 21
William E. Knight, 80, St. Helen, passed Dec 22
Linda M. Smith, 73, Houghton Lake, passed Dec 19
William N. Woodman IV, 71, Grayling, passed Dec 18
Debra L. Ranger, 68, National City formerly East Tawas, passed Dec 19
Darrell A. Garlock, 88, West Branch, passed Dec 26
Fred Turner
Fred Cecil Turner, 87 of West Branch, MI passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Jan. 23, 2025.
He was born in Paris, TN on Dec. 14, 1937. He lived and worked in Livonia, MI before retiring to West Branch in 2000. He was a proud Veteran of the Vietnam war serving as a Green Beret Special Forces Paratrooper.
He was a member of Churchill United Methodist Church and lifetime member of Findlater Masonic lodge. He enjoyed being with his family, hunting, fishing and later in life enjoyed watching the birds, wildlife and the river flowing by.
He was active in many woodcarving associations and proudly carved and presented Eagle head canes to fellow veterans. He enjoyed the Ogemaw County Fair, especially interacting with people at the Veteran's Museum.
He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Sonja, son Al (known to many as Wink), daughter Karen Gosdzinski (Keith), grandson David Gosdzinski (Lica), granddaughter Megan DeVore (Jake), brother Frank Turner and many other loving relatives.
He was predeceased by father Jesse, mother Dorothy, sister Jean Holmes.
A Memorial Service was held at Churchill United Methodist Church, Feb. 1.
Please consider a memorial contribution to Churchill United Methodist Church or your local Veterans Services.
The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice and Cornerstone Caregiving for their care and compassion.
Obituaries & Death Notices
Kent P. Davison, 85, West Branch, passed Dec 23
Louis A. Jones, 86, St. Helen, passed Dec 26
Paul J. Harmon, 93, Prudenville, passed Dec 24
Lulu M. Lear, 92, Tawas City, passed Dec 22
Lawrence "Larry" Sullivan Sr., 87, Tawas, passed Dec 22
Lena Lucille Paris, 91, Mio, passed Dec 24
Duane L. Mayball, 64, Grayling, passed Dec 24
Kenneth D. Kuhn, 77, Houghton Lake, passed Dec 25
Janice E. Draft, 86, West Branch, passed Dec 29
Shirley E. McClenahen, 89, West Branch, passed Jan 3
Betty F. Calvin, 93, West Branch, passed Jan 4
Thomas E. Garant, 66, West Branch, passed Jan 4
Thomas M. Grace, 69, West Branch, passed Jan 2
Eugene J. Laming, 73, Whittemore, passed Jan 1
Carolyn M. Mack, 94, Tawas City, passed Jan 2
Lola M. Cumby, 84, Glennie, passed Jan 4
Katherine L. Hines, 91, Houghton Lake, passed Jan 2
Marilyn M. Robb, 81, Houghton Lake, passed Jan 2
Ellen Klaire Manick, 79, Lake City formerly West Branch, passed Jan 8
Mary Jane LaBerge Klenow, 97, East Tawas, passed Jan 9
Marty M. Smith, 77, Fairview, passed Jan 11
Anna M. White, 85, Prudenville, passed January 9
Joe “Mike” Mickiel Wagster, 81, Roscommon, passed Jan 8
William V. Thiboult, 87, St. Helen, passed Jan 11
Benny L. Windsor, 64, Rose City, passed Jan 12
Timothy P. Pegouskie, 66, Mio, passed Jan 9
Joan M. Porritt, 93 Fairview, passed Jan 10
Matthew J. Artman, 58, West Branch, passed Jan 14
Lettie F. (McDaniel) UmfressHoskins, 86, Hale, passed Jan 13
Philip George Haka, 76, Roscommon, passed Jan 13
Connie L. Frydrych, 68, Roscommon, passed Jan 18
Sandra R. Bovee, 78, Houghton Lake, passed Jan 13
Lawrence C. Murphy, 88, Oscoda, passed Dec 24
Arista G. Hunt, 43, Saginaw formerly Tawas City, passed Dec 26
Nancy K. Popielarz, 86, East Tawas, passed Dec 29
Margaret L. Erickson, 84, Tawas City, passed Dec 29
Michael “Gamby” Gambrel, 68, Luzerne, passed Dec 26
Pamela "Pam" I. Diehl, 68, St. Helen, passed Dec 31
Robert “Bob” W. Toner, 70, Oscoda formerly Detroit, passed Dec 30
Robert C. Claypool, 59, Rose City, passed Jan 1
James W. Burgei Sr., 92, Mio, passed Dec 31
Brian D. Ashton, 81, Grayling, passed Dec 30
Marlynne L. Crawford, 89, Luzerne, passed Jan 3
Deborah G. Warnez, 65, Oscoda, passed Jan 5
David H. Spence, 88, Hale, passed Jan 6
Mary M. McKerring Reitler, 75, Oscoda, passed Jan 7
William G. Hobart, 65, Oscoda, passed Jan 7
Jo Ellen Maike, 70, Hale, passed Jan 7
Marsha M. Benjamin, 73, Prudenville, passed Jan 3
Glenn E. Fugate, 44, Grayling, passed Jan 5
Pietro "Pete" D. Tacconelli, 30, Falmouth formerly Houghton Lake, passed Jan 14
Thomas H. Schmitz, 87, Houghton Lake, passed Jan 16
Wallace S. Crawford, 97, Goodrich formerly West Branch, passed Jan 15
Sue C. Hanes-Tillman, 89, West Branch, passed Jan 18
Kenneth Edward Gildner, 85, West Branch, passed Jan 18
John Henry Brindley, 62, Hale, passed Jan 13
Sharon A. Huitema, 81, East Tawas formerly Royal Oak, passed Jan 15
Seymour N. Bortle, 89, Hale, passed Jan 15
Elite P. Shellenbarger, 73, Hale, passed Jan 15
Marilyn Louise Webb, 92, Tawas City, passed Jan 16
Marjorie Roberts, 94, East Tawas, passed Jan 17
Joseph M. Cano Sr., 88, Oscoda, passed Jan 17
Orville E. Cox Jr., 84, Luzerne, passed Jan 15
William J. Walper, 84, Grayling, passed Jan 14
AMERICAN LEGION SPREADS CHRISTMAS CHEER - American Legion Post 422 members visit 37 veterans in nursing homes in Tawas over the Christmas holiday.
Long Lake's Ice Jam
The Demar family have a cabin on Long Lake and came up from the Detroit area for the Ice Jam.
Above: All lined up for the chair sledding race.
Below: Donvan & Donald Fox of Ann Arbor sculpted a toilet in the snow sculpting competition.
Above: Enjoying a game of ice hockey during Long Lake’s Ice Jam festival.
Below: Rachel Good with her daughter Harper and son from Standish having fun in the sun.
