Up North Voice - November 2025

See pages 13-24

Shop, stroll, and celebrate

WEST BRANCH- Holy Family Catholic Church will be having a Holiday Craft Fair on Sat., Nov. 1 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 402. W. Peters Rd., West Branch. Tables will be filled with tons of craft items and goodies for you to choose from!

ROSCOMMON- Get your shopping on during “Does Downtown” (formerly girls’ night out) on Sat. Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

HALE- Don’t miss the Christmas Bazaar on Sat., Nov. 15 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Resource Center, 310 N Washington, Hale.

ST. HELEN- Northern Light Church is excited to host an Indoor

▪ See SHOP, STROLL, AND CELEBRATE on page 2

ENGINES IN AUTUMN - Trailside Food Court in Hale hosted their last car show of the season. Pictured are West Branch residents Glenn and Janet Hacker beside "Goofy,” their gleaming red 1950 Ford F1 pick-up truck. See more photos on Page 36.

Windmill comes home

By Kristi Major

HALE – As families grow and land changes hands, things tend to get moved—or left behind. One Iosco County windmill, though, has found its way back home to Daryl and Carla Johnson.

Originally used to grind grain and pump water, windmills helped expand farming and ranching across rural America. Though modern technology has replaced their practical use, windmills remain a symbol of American heritage, and can still be found on old farms and ranches across the nation.

Carla’s dad, James Irwin of Hale, once owned a 485 acre farm in Whittemore; raising corn, hay, cattle, hogs and of course, horses. He also farmed another 1,000 acres that was part of the adjacent family land.

That was the farm where Carla and her four siblings grew up.

It a strange family twist, the property where Carla and her family grew up was purchased by Carla’s grandfather from Daryl’s great grandfather.

“Daryl’s mother was born in the house that us kids grew up in,” Carla said.

James farmed that land for 40 years, raising five kids as a single dad. Three daughters and both his sons worked various jobs on the farm in-between school days and summers off.

Carla remembers riding horses with her sister and friends all around the farm but always out to the windmill where a rain barrel sat holding water for the cows to drink.

"When it was really hot, we

jumped in to cool off!,” she said.

Everyone shared work on the farm. And food was whatever dad put on the table.

"Nine-year old would bale hay and no one thought anything of it,” Carla said.

Carla and Daryl bought their nearby 40 acre farm on Curtis Road, just south of Hale, in 1975. Hay and beef cattle have been their specialty.

Their six kids worked the farm: putting up hay in the barn, setting bales in the field, and working the cattle. Like farming traditions of old, everyone pitched in.

The windmill came the Daryl and Carla through a fortunate series of events.

After Irwin sold the original 485-

▪ See WINDMILL COMES HOME on page 2 ~ Photo by

Alicia Noragon Copy Editor Alicia@UpNorthVoice.com

Mark Constance MConstance@ UpNorthVoice.com

Donna Thoma Writer donnathoma0@gmail.com

Billie Moore Writer Billie.Moore@comcast.net

Jessie Wade Distribution Manager

Tracy Constance Tracy@UpNorthVoice.com

M: 419.236.0359

Paul Grabstanowicz Paul@UpNorthVoice.com M: 630.567.3263

Bryce Shaw Bryce@UpNorthVoice.com M: 989.572.4195

Sarah Novak Reporter snova.kaye@gmail.com

Warren Stutesman Reporter wstutesman@gmail.com

Letter to the Editor

Principle over politics

To the editor

Nonpartisanship is not just a policy, it is a core principle of the League of Women Voters.

As a membership organization dedicated to empowering voters and defending democracy, we never support or oppose political parties or candidates. Our work focuses on the issues that affect our communities: fair elections, voting rights, and strong democratic institutions.

During campaign season, our position is clear: we do not endorse or oppose any candidate or political party. Instead, we provide tools like Vote411.org to help voters understand where candidates stand on the issues.

We host forums, share nonpartisan resources, and ensure every eligible voter can access the ballot. Our role is to empower voters with facts—not tell them how to vote.

Once elected, individuals become public servants. Holding them accountable is not partisan, it is

necessary for democracy. When we support or oppose policies, we do so based on our mission and values, not political allegiance.

In times of division, our nonpartisan stance helps build trust. It allows us to be a reliable voice for all voters and lead efforts that rise above partisanship, grounded in the ideals that unite us.

Being nonpartisan doesn’t mean staying silent. When democracy is threatened, voter access is restricted, or misinformation spreads, we speak out—firmly and clearly. Our advocacy is rooted in policy, not politics. We defend rights and freedoms no matter who is in power. Our credibility comes from our independence. Our strength comes from our mission.

Nonpartisanship makes our work enduring—and essential.

Christina Schlitt League of women voters

Shop, stroll, and celebrate

Continued from page 1

Opening Day Craft & Bake Sale on Sat., Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. This is a perfect opportunity to purchase goods and small business creations from your community just in time for the holiday season!

Shops will be open with seasonal specials, and you might even spot Santa himself.

FAIRVIEW- Mistletoe Market is back at Fairview High School on Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Enjoy shopping, music, and delicious food!

Jeremy Shore Houghton Lake Distribution

Axel Jacobs Roscommon Distribution

Cody Jackson Mio Distribution

Kristi Major Reporter thankskristi@yahoo.com

Micheala Wade West Branch Distribution

Matthew Barnes Grayling Distribution

GRAYLING- Celebrate the season at the Christmas Walk in Downtown Grayling! On Sat., Nov. 22, start the holiday magic with horse and carriage rides, reindeer, music, and the glow of twinkling lights.

MIO- The Annual Light Parade kicks off the holiday season on Sat., Nov. 29. Come see Mr. & Mrs. Claus at the Chamber of Commerce from 4-5:30 p.m. before the parade begins at 6!

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.

CRAWFORD COUNTY:

Grayling, Frederic, Lovells

1- Wild Game Dinner, 5 p.m., $15 for adults, $10 for kids, food, raffle drawings, and door prizes, Grayling Baptist Church

3- Men’s Night, 6 p.m., Grayling Baptist Church

7-8- AuSable Artisan Village Community Theatre Performance of Drinking Habits, 7 p.m., $20 tickets on sale at artisanvillage.org/ events/, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, 122 Michigan Ave, downtown Grayling

9- AuSable Artisan Village Community Theatre Performance of Drinking Habits, 4:30 p.m., $20 tickets on sale at artisanvillage.org/ events/, AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center, 122 Michigan Ave, downtown Grayling

14- Cup of Encouragement, 6 p.m., $10/person, Grayling Baptist Church

15- Rock Painting, with Kurt Kolka, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Grayling Baptist Church

23- Christmas Village & Train Show, 12-4 p.m., donation to Boy Scout Troop #979, 1629 Industrial St, Grayling

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

Mon- Women’s Group- 6 p.m., Grayling Baptist Church

Wed- Mahjong – 1-3 p.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

Wed- Bible Study, youth Group, Group Share, and Grief Share, 6 p.m., Grayling Baptist Church

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

Thurs- Pokeno- 9:30 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior Center

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

Mon & Wed- SilverSneakers – 10-11 a.m., Crawford County Commission on Aging & Senior

Out & About - November 2025

Center

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

Tues & Thurs- Food Pantry, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Grayling Baptist Church

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

1- Roscommon County Animal Shelter Free Vaccine Clinic, 9

a.m.-1 p.m., free rabies, K9 distemper parvo, and free feline distemper, microchips $25, call 989-366-0260 for more information, Roscommon County Road Commission, 820 E West Branch Rd, Prudenville

1- Zombie Zoom, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., registration fee: a new toy for toys for tots or $20 cash, fun family trail ride, and zombie costume contest on Facebook, prize drawing for completing 3 stops: 1) Back Door Saloon, 5819 W Houghton Lk Dr, Houghton Lake, 2) The Landmark Restaurant, 5937 W Higgins Lake Dr, Higgins Lake, 3) Firehouse Bar and Grill, 465 N St. Helen Rd, St. Helen

12- Dinner Theater: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, dinner at 5:30 p.m., play at 6 p.m., $25 advance tickets, $30 at the door, Charlton Heston Academy

17- Kirtland Garden Club

Members Only Annual Potluck Luncheon Business Meeting, 12 p.m., voting on revised laws, policy, and procedures, budget and

2026 offices, contact Nancy 989422-6017 to RSVP, Roscommon Baptist Church, 1201 Sunset Dr, Roscommon

27- Free Thanksgiving Dinner, 1-3 p.m., share a meal with friends or family, donations accepted, V.F.W. Post 5680 dining hall, 1914 Lake St, St. Helen

29- Lighted Santa Parade, 5:30 p.m., line up at 5 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Parking Lot, tree lighting at 6 p.m., see Santa and get your photo taken with him, Richfield Twp Hall, St. Helen

Roscommon County Extras

Mon – Reserve Tech HelpHoughton Lake Public Library

Mon- AA Meeting, 7 a.m., River Center, 211 N Main St, Roscommon

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

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

Mon- AA Meeting, 7 p.m., Women’s Meeting Call for address 231-886-0694

Tues, Wed, Thurs- AA Meeting, 11 a.m., Methodist Church, 1515 M-18, Roscommon

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

Tues, Wed, Sat- AA Meeting, 7 p.m., River Center, 211 N Main St, Roscommon

Wed- Dance Workout- 2:30-3:30 p.m., all ages welcome, Roscommon Area District Library

Weds- Hookers Anonymous-

3-7 p.m., bring your own knitting or crocheting project and socialize, Made Up North, 704 Lake St, Roscommon

Thurs- AA Meeting, 11 a.m., Methodist Church, 1515 M-18, Roscommon

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

Thurs, Fri- AA Meeting, 7 p.m., Methodist Church, 1515 M-18, Roscommon Fri – Story-time Fridays- 10:30 a.m., Houghton Lake Public Library Fri- Narcotics Anonymous- 7 p.m. St. Helen Community Baptist Church, 1494 N St. Helen Rd Sat- Roscommon Historical Building, open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through Labor Day, 404 Lake St. (M-18), Roscommon Sun- AA Meeting, 4 p.m., Methodist Church, 1515 M-18, Roscommon 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 4th Wed- Roscommon County Democratic Party Meeting, 6 p.m., Denton Twp. Hall, 2565 S Gladwin Rd, Prudenville

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 1- 3rd Pumpkin Smash Enduro, 5:30 p.m., Whittemore Speedway, 519 S Bullock St, Whittemore

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

“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. ▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 6

Now Enrolling For Fall 2025:

Out & About

Continued from page 4

Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Resource Center, 310 N Washington, Hale

Iosco County Extras 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 - 9 a.m. American Legion Post 211 900 E. Lincoln, East Tawas

2nd Thurs- I Can Literacy

Project Read Aloud, 10:30-11 a.m., Plainfield Twp Library, Hale

OGEMAW COUNTY: West Branch, Rose City, Lupton, Prescott

1- Holy Cow CCW Craft Show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Holy Family Hall, 402 W Peters Rd, West Branch

14- Glow in the Dark Paint Party, 6-9 p.m., $20 ticket includes canvas painting, glow body art, activities, and ice cream from Black Bird Ice Cream, Safe Haven Doula & Events, 322 W Houghton Ave, West

Preschool Story Time, 11 a.m., Community Room of West

, Early Birds at 6:30 p.m., Regular 7:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus off M-30 AL-ANON meeting, 8 p.m., 12 Step-Up Club, 236 First

Preschool Storytime, 11 a.m., West Branch District Library , 7 a.m., Loggers Depot, 314 Houghton

City Council , 6 p.m., West Branch City

Kiwanis Young , 6 p.m., Highway

Helping a friend in need

By Donna Thoma

HOUGHTON LAKE- Susan McLeod of Houghton Lake, learned earlier this year, that a friend had been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, and wanted to help.

Her friend, Tina Rizzotto Borchers, works at the Hairloft in Houghton Lake, as an Eshetician, a licensed professional who specializes in skincare through non-medical treatments. Borchers received her training through Kirtland Community college and began working at the Hairloft in 2017.

Diagnosed in January of 2025, Borchers completed her chemo treatments in October.

Borchers, a Roscommon resident, is awaiting word from the oncologist as to when surgery for a

Brewing Company

3rd Mon. – Disabled American Veterans & Auxiliary meeting, 5 p.m., VFW Post 3775 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 4th Tues- Ogemaw County Democratic Party Meeting, 5 p.m., 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. 2nd Wed. – Aktion Club, Noon, First United Methodist Church, 2490 State Rd

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 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 7-8- Holiday Church Bazaar, Friday 3-7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m., crafters, vendors, and baked goods, free admission and door prizes, New Hope Assembly of God Church, 520 W 8th St/M72, Mio

▪ See OUT & ABOUT on page 7

double mastectomy will take place. Following that procedure, Borchers will be off work for at least two months.

Insurance is currently covering medical costs. Expenses incurred by lost work, due to the surgery, doctor and hospital visits, and providing for her family, are out of pocket.

Borchers’ two teenage sons,

▪ See FRIEND IN NEED on page 9

Laskowski and Salena Laskowski during the “mortgage burning

AuSable Day Care.

Burning debt and building dreams

By Salena Laskowski Executive Director Crawford AuSable Day Care

GRAYLING- Standing among family, friends, Mt. Hope congregation, and community supporters, I was filled with gratitude as we celebrated a milestone many thought would take decades — paying off our $470,000 mortgage in just five years.

Crawford AuSable Day Care (CADC) began in 1980 in the old Sportsmen’s Club on Old Lake Rd., serving Grayling families with care and love. As demand grew, Mt. Hope Lutheran Church became a partner in faith, helping us build a new childcare center.

That dream came true in 2020, when we opened our 6,000-squarefoot facility and 2,400-square-foot pavilion, doubling capacity and reopening our Infant and Toddler program. Mt. Hope owns the building and leases it to CADC at cost, allowing us to focus on children and families.

Timeline of our journey:

• 2020: Opened our new center.

•2021: Stayed open through COVID challenges.

• 2022: Enrollment and programs expanded.

• 2023: Celebrated 40 years of service from Miss Marsha and record community support.

• 2024: “Pay Off the Mortgage” campaign soared, boosted by a $100,000 gift honoring Steve Koch, whose vision helped make this dream real.

• 2025: Debt-free at last.

This achievement reflects the power of faith, partnership, and community. To every parent, teacher, donor, and volunteer—thank you. And to Mt. Hope Lutheran Church, your belief that childcare is ministry made this miracle possible.

As we burned the mortgage, we celebrated not just freedom from debt, but the legacy we’ve built together, and a foundation for generations of children to come.

Out & About

Continued from page 6

8- 16th Annual Wine Tasting & Silent Auction, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m., silent auction, wine sampling, and hors d’oeuvres, tickets can be purchased at Mio Community Center, 305 E 9th St, Mio

11- Veteran’s Day Breakfast, 8:45 a.m., open to all veterans and their families, ceremony to follow at 9:45 a.m., Mio- AuSable High School Cafeteria

11- Veteran’s Day Ceremony, 10:45 a.m.-12 p.m., Oscoda County Veterans Affairs Office, 205 E 11th St, Mio

22- Mistletoe Market, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., shopping, food, music, and more, Fairview School

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

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

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

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

Every Weds- Sit and Stitch12:30 p.m., Oscoda County District Library: Fairview Branch

Every Sun- Sunday Service-10 a.m. Tri-Point Church of God, 831 W Miller Rd, Mio

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

OTHER REGIONS:

7- Bake Sale Fundraiser, 10 a.m.-5:45 p.m., Jay’s Sporting Goods, Gaylord

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

Retired electrician launches 'Project Earth'

By Sarah Novak sarah.upnorthv@gmail.com

LUPTON- If you’re looking for a captivating book to dive into this fall pick up Project Earth by Jay Fiondella.

This 306-page sci-fi novel takes the reader on a journey of extraterrestrial intervention with humans on earth. These intelligent aliens come to help humanity evolve into a world without pain and sickness. They provide insight on advancements including renewable energy and technical marvels to level up human existence. Challenges are faced when world authorities try to prevent the spread of this new knowledge.

book, Quirky Bathroom Book for Men Over 60 was published in 2024 and highlights the funny quirks relating to the various challenges that come with unwanted aging.

“Project Earth has all the aspects to make it believable and interesting. There is character depth and relatability, I really set the bar high for myself in hopes other people enjoy it,” said Fiondella.

63-year-old Lupton resident Jay Fiondella is the author of Project Earth.

Project Earth was published this March, and is 63-year-old Fiondella’s 3rd book he has authored. In 2012 he wrote But Dad, a memoir commentary centered around raising his 2 daughters and son. His second

Fiondella worked in the Detroit area as a union electrician and is remaining quite busy in retirement. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time drumming and plays for the band Crossing Woodward. He is currently in the preliminary stages of a sequel to Project Earth, where the salvation of planet Earth will be revealed.

You can follow Fiondella’s creative endeavors at jayfiondella. com or purchase his books through https://books2read.com/u/mlxn0P.

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

QUILTS FOR HEROES- On Oct. 8, the Meo Mio Stitchers presented 3 quilts to local veterans at the Oscoda County Veterans Affairs building in Mio. Since 2017, Meo Mio Stitchers have presented 149 quilts to deserving Veteran's in the community as a symbol of appreciation for their service.

~ Photos by Sarah Novak

Pictured are some of the quilt creators of the Meo Mio Stitchers including Hope Pearsall, Judy Utley, Debbie Reed, Cindy Neff, Rachel Duff, Linda Wilson, and Dawn Cooper.

Windmill comes home

Continued from page 1

acre parcel, he purchased a smaller 40 acre parcel from a family member in 1978, where he placed the 30-foot windmill. It was purchased at the old Whittemore Elevator Company.

When Irwin sold that 40-acre property, the last of the Irwin homestead, the new owners said he could keep any farm items that were left behind. Then one evening, Irwin called Carla about 9 p.m.

“The guy told my dad that if we wanted the windmill, it had to be removed by midnight. I couldn’t even think how we could do that in just a few hours,” Carla said.

allowed Daryl to take a well rig over to tear down the windmill.

“Him and a couple of buddies raced out and using the lights from a well rig, took the sawmill down in pieces,” Carla said.

At 11:55 p.m. the loaded the pieces of the windmill on a couple of hay wagons and transported it over to the Johnson’s Curtis Road farm.

Today, the windmill stands proudly near a small pond on the back of the property. Cleaned up and repainted red, white and blue, it’s claimed its rightful place in Johnson-Irwin family lore.

The question was how to get it— and fast.

“I called Daryl and he said, ‘Let’s get it.’” Carla said.

Daryl, who worked for Webb Well Drilling at the time, asked for some help. In a monumental effort involving friends and family, Webb

Today, thirteen grandkids, and one Great-grandchild, ride out to “Dad’s windmill,” carrying on the family legacy of community and farming.

“I’m happy that we were able to do it and bring it home,” Carla said. “Getting my dad’s windmill means a lot to us.”

Faces of the future

Roscommon Middle Schoolers are dabbling into writing and interviews in their Journalism class led by teacher Amanda Laskey. Teachers voted and selected articles by Jayme Theobald and Lily Baelocher for this month’s ‘Faces of the future’.

How to behave in class

By Jayme Theobald

– 6th

Here’s a quick guide to surviving (and thriving) in class.

What to bring? Pencils, charged Chromebook, water bottle, books, headphone, and a good attitude!

What to do? Stay seated, listen, raise your hand, be respectful, follow classroom rules and Buck expectations!

What not to do? Do not yell or scream, tip in your chair, blurt out answers, talk to friends while the teacher is talking, or mess around when you should be working!

same every time, and include lots of protein.

He also coaches at Kirtland Community College.

If he could live anywhere, it would be the Bahamas because the weather is nice year -round and there are endless things to do.

If he could wear anything forever, it would be Nike Tech because it is comfortable, versatile, and trendy.

The best part of his job so far has been training with Mrs. Burmeister, who knows the ins and outs of the job and is full of knowledge.

What not to say? “6-7”, any “Italian brain rot”, “sigma”, or anything inappropriate or off topic internet phrases that don’t belong in school!

Welcoming

Mr. Collins

By Lily Baerlocher – 6th

Let’s welcome our new secretary, Mr. Collins! His favorite foods are steak and fried chicken because they are easy to make, taste the

The staff and students who have helped him the most are Mrs. Burmeister, for her guidance and support, and Miss Maloney, who offered him the job and recognized his potential to help the school. The student who has helped him the most is Lily Baerlocher, since she does bus passes and announcements.

So far, Mr. Collins has not had any rough times. It has been a great learning experience, especially coming from Flint and working with a different population.

Friend in need

Continued from page 6

Walker and Mason, attend Roscommon High School, participate in football and other activities at Roscommon. Walker was crowned 2025 Roscommon Homecoming King.

It is estimated that mastectomy surgery costs generally range between $15,000-$55,000, and a year of chemo treatments up to $48,000.

McLeod, owner of Love N' Links Permanent Jewelry, decided to do a fundraiser to help Borchers with any

continuing expenses, not covered by insurance.

Since October was Breast Cancer Awareness month, she has given 20% of her sales between October 14-30, towards Tina's care. Those dates may be extended.

Cash donations are also being accepted at the Hairloft in Houghton Lake -5073 W. Houghton Lake Dr. or contact Susan McLeod at lovenlinkspermanentjewelry@gmail. com or 616-717-2177.

CIDER FOR UNIFORMS – The Roscommon Lady Bucks soccer team was fundraising for uniforms in front of Skye High Gymnastics. The volunteers served lemonade and apple cider, raising $332 toward the cause. They will be at the same spot with hot chocolate during Christmas in the Village. Pictured (l-r) are Team Manager Emma Brabant, Izzie Valentino and Delaney Fiebelkorn. Not pictured are Coach Sean Brabant and Emma Hoogerhyde. - Photo courtesy of Sean Branbant

Sips and stems

By Kristi Major

HALE- The Friends of the Library hosted the Annual Flannel-n Pearls Tea Party on Thurs., Oct. 16. The event featured a flower arranging craft by Kim Kocherr.

Extra tables had to be set up for the great turnout! Participants sipped a variety of unique teas accompanied by an assortment of creative finger foods. They also got a chance to bid on a variety of silent auction baskets; contents graciously donated by individuals and local businesses:

Kathy Janes Boutique, Victorian Cafe, Alwards, Country Corner Wines, Mickeys Pizza, Krantz Farm and the Hale Eagles.

Friends of the Library Vice President Donette Dennis said, "Our annual Tea Party has become a staple community event, bringing together return guests and many new ones each year."

For information on upcoming events or to become a supporting member of the Friends of the Library call 989-728-4086.

Guests were encouraged to bring their own teacup to use. Madonna Bernard (L), Jorayne Wyman (M) and Chris Nuttall (R) show off their plaid, pearls, and vintage teacups.

Amy Helsel-McClain, director of Crawford County Toys for Tots, and event organizer Mary Becker.

JEEPERS CREEPERS - The Annual Jeepers Creepers Jeep Meet and Toys for Tots Fundraiser took place at Beckers Crossroads in Grayling Oct. 4. The event featured Jeep enthusiasts who came together and decorated their machines for Halloween, while supporting Crawford County Toys for Tots. Organizer Mary Becker said the event raised $1,300.

The winners of the Jeep Halloween decorating contest.

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

Celebrating November Birds,

Toad's Stool

By Warren "Toad" Stutesman

bucks, and big

Welcome to November, the month with so many great holidays! Veterans Day, Marine Corp Birthday, Deer Season, Thanksgiving, my birthday (65, whew I made it), and my wedding anniversary (39 years, I think it may last). November is also Epilepsy Awareness Month and in honor of a friend and neighbor that suffers greatly from this affliction I ask that we all take a moment and pray for those that suffer so.

Last month I mentioned that we went to Manistique for a short vacation, well in October we rented a cabin at Brimley State Park for 3 days. What a great trip! The colors were glorious everywhere that we went. The cabin had two sets of bunk beds, electricity, a microwave, and a small refrigerator. Outside there was a picnic table and a fire pit. I used the fire pit quite well each evening.

The weather was a bit stormy for bird watching but the scenery made up for it. After nine years without a vacation, this fall has been a blessing. We did get home earlier than was planned because of the rain but it ended up being a blessing because when we arrived home, we found a very small water leak behind the refrigerator. Thankfully no profound damage was done but we are changing the flooring.

After returning home we later went to the Houghton Lake Sewage

milestones

Ponds, and we were blessed with a great diversity of birds. There were water birds, shore birds, and grassland birds to be found. Now my wife has a fondness for Swans, and she had a nice long and close view of several for quite a spell.

While viewing the ponds we were able to add a few birds to our lifetime list of birds identified.

My home feeders are being used by my regular feathered friends, but I do believe that a few of their relatives have stopped by for a visit as the food consumption seems to have increased substantially.

For those that feed the birds it is beneficial to become a member of your local Ace Hardware. They send me a few coupons each month that are useful for me and I do like saving money.

Firearm deer season is once more upon us. While we have had a few early rifle seasons and archery is underway, it is rifle season that brings hunters into our area in significant numbers. It is especially important during this time to be careful when out in the woods. Even when walking along the roadways you should be wearing a high visibility item.

As a bird watcher, if I go out in deer season, I need to remember to be respectful of the hunters’ rights to be there. It is all of us using the resources together that makes it possible for our state to take care of our woods and waters. No one group could fund all the needs that we have to maintain, care for, and police the use of our state and federal lands.

I will leave you all for another month. Please be safe, respectful of others, and as always please help keep our woods and waters clean.

HONORING OUR VETERANS

Duty, service, and a perfect brew

By Sarah Novak

sarah.upnorthv@gmail.com

OSCODA COUNTY- Mio resident, Richard Hoffman retired from the United States Coast Guard in 2015 as a E7 Chief Petty Officer. He served just over 20 years in active duty and was a Chief Machinery Technician. After meeting with recruitment officers in high school, Hoffman was eager to join the military. At the age of 17 he needed his parents’ approval to begin the recruitment paperwork. He graduated from Mio-AuSable Schools in May 1995 and began boot

camp that July.

Over the years serving in the Coast Guard, he was stationed in various locations along the East coast and Michigan. His first duty station was in Maine, and then later transferred to Massachusetts where he was sent on drug and border patrol missions to Miami and San Juan, Puerto Rico. He worked search and rescue missions while he worked on the Cutter Acacia in Charlevoix, MI. His final station before retiring was on Belle Isle in Detroit.

▪ See DUTY, SERVICE, AND A PERFECT BREW on page 14

Ogemaw County Veteran of the Year

By LuAnn Zettle

Becoming a Veteran of the Year is a prestigious honor for a veteran whose life is filled with service, to both the U.S. military and their community.

Randy Alan Huyck was born on January 04, 1955, and raised in East Tawas. Randy enjoyed school until his high school days became filled with bullying. In 1971, when Randy had had enough bullying, he quit high school and headed to the Army recruiter’s office.

He had told the recruiter he wanted to be a driver but soon found out he’d have to work his way into that position as he didn’t know how to drive a stick shift at the time.

At first, he was told because he was only 16 years old his mother would have to sign a waiver for him. No problem there. He officially joined the Army on January 07, 1972.

Randy was off to basic combat training in Ft. Knox with a clean-shaven head and his assigned clothes and boots. There he learned shooting, marching, did bivouac, and learned to make a bed military tight.

After basic training was complete, Randy headed to St. Leonard Wood, MO. Randy learned to drive an Army Jeep; stick shift, four-on-thefloor and a Duce-and-a-½ (2 ½ ton truck). The Duce was a big White

▪ See VETERAN OF THE YEAR on page 14

Duty, service and a perfect brew

Continued from page 13

In retirement Hoffman returned to Mio with his wife of 29 years and their 2 daughters. He is dedicated to serving the community that he grew up in and currently holds position as Secretary for the Oscoda County Veteran’s Affairs Board and Vice President of the Board of Education for the Mio-AuSable School District.

coffee roasting company in downtown Mio. Their coffee shop serves up delectable beverages with their fresh, in-house roasted coffee. Deer Camp also offers a wide variety of Michigan made products.

Hoffman served in the United States Coast Guard for 20 years.

In 2023 Hoffman and his business partner Brian Gadowski opened up Deer Camp

“I thank 17-yearold me for making the decision of joining the military. I enjoyed my experience in the Coast Guard; it gave me the confidence to embark on becoming a business owner and start something from scratch.”

Duty, service and a perfect brew

Continued from page 13

built, general purpose truck, with a 5-speed transmission and 6-wheel drive.

In June 1972, Randy was sent to Ft. Ord, CA, to drive an ambulance.

“Wounded, mostly from Vietnam, would be flown into Monterey Airport and I’d transport them to Silas B. Hayes Hospital,” recounted Randy.

Next up was Ft. Bragg. Randy would finally be near family as his brother, Jim, was nearby at Camp Lejeune.

“At Ft Bragg I learned Secondary MOS (Military Occupational Skill). Which means I was here, there, everywhere, and listed as TD4, (Temporary Duty). That means I was loaned out to other units because I could read a map, not get lost and get somewhere quicker than most drivers. Because of my skills Special Forces wanted me, but I didn’t want them, wanted no part of that, so I went AWOL for 10 days.” said Randy.

“During that 10 days the Special Forces unit picked up Randy Hayes out of my unit thinking they were getting me. So, by the time I got back, Special Forces had dropped interest in me.”

Randy was taken off the TD4 list and was put working in a motor pool, learning how to be a mechanic.

He met and married Diane (she

was in service too) and they had their first born, Randy Jr., in Fayetteville, NC.

In December of ’75, Randy was sent with the 590 Transportation Company to Mannheim, Germany, where he was mechanic and driving truck. He drove over 26,000 miles accident free near Munich, hauling everything from decommissioned Ack-ack guns (anti-aircraft guns) to atomic bombs, moving them all over Germany.

Randy and Diane’s second son, Douglas, was born, during Randy’s two-tours (5 ½ years) in Germany. January 10, 1985, after his 2nd tour, Randy got out of service. In 1987, Randy and Diane divorced.

In 1997 Randy, living in Whittemore, married Karen Weaver from Hale. Nowadays they make their home in the Sage Lake area. He has served as the 2002 Commander of the Disabled American Veterans, Ogemaw Hills #73, and served 17 years as Commander. He has been a member of the 370 American Legion for 15 years, participating in various activities, such as fundraising for helping brethren vets.

Thank you Randy Huych, for your dedicated service and we give recognition to the honor you were awarded as the 2025 Ogemaw County Veteran of the Year.

Honoring our local heroes

▪ Austin Romancky, Jennifer, U.S. Navy, 1999-2003, St. Helen

▪ Balhorn. Kenneth M., U.S. Navy. 1971

▪ Bauman, Josh, U.S. Coast Guard, 2020

▪ Bramer, Corey, Marine Corps, 2021

▪ Brinn, Joseph A., U.S. Army, CW3, Vietnam 1968, A Trp, 7/17 Air Cavalry, Huey Crew Chief and Gunner, retired 1987, Oscoda

▪ Brinn, Joseph, Vietnam, 1968

▪ Callahan, Isaac, Mosul 2004 1/23 INF 3/2 SBCT (sideburns just barely hanging onto regs)

▪ Carrick, Craig, FRG in 80-84, Wurzburg, FRG, HHC 3rd Infantey Division Headquarters in Wurzburg Germany. G4 Plans and Operations. “It was an amazing time in my life.”

▪ Cole, Sean, U.S. Army, 2010

▪ Constance, Mark, 82nd Engineer Battalion, U.S. Army, 12B, Bamberg, Fort Leonard Wood, Missour, 1982, Roscommon

▪ Constance, Gordon, US Army, 1959, 2T492, FRG Germany

▪ Crittenden, Michael L., Retired Air Force Master Sergeant E-7, Jan. 1975 – Oct. 1995, Mio. Pic taken at Clark AFB in the Phillipines. MOS 46670 (Entomology), or “The bug shop.”

▪

, U.S. Air Force, 1962

▪ See LOCAL HEROES on page 16

A man among men

By Mark Constance

With another Veteran’s Day approaching, I’m reminded of a man I knew while serving in the U.S. Army.

It was 1982 and I was trying to hustle a few extra bucks to supplement my Spec. 4 pay. So I took a part-time job bailing hay near Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri (or ‘Lost in the Woods’ for the initiated).

Four of us bounced a few miles down an overgrown two-track in the back of an old Chevy pickup. I met with a grizzled old farmer dressed in weathered bib overalls and a white t-shirt.

After a brief discussion. We agreed on a rate of three cents a bale, shook hands and went to work.

He lived a simple life. His home was modest. It had one large room and was heated with a wood stove. He had electricity, but didn’t use it for lights, preferring gas lamps.

He told us he had the power turned on a few years earlier to operate a hay elevator because his knees bothered him “a bit.” Some of the best water I ever drank was drawn from his hand well.

His only other modern convenience was a small, black and white TV with aluminum foil on the antennae.

Over the course of a few days, I could tell this farmer was the kind of guy who had good friends and a solid reputation. He was the guy who would give you the shirt off his back if he thought you needed it.

And he didn’t speak much. But when he did, people listened. Everything he said had a purpose.

After the first cutting was finished, I sat at a wood picnic table in a buddy’s yard with him and a few other guys. It was a stifling,

muggy day. The air smelled like a thunderstorm was coming.

We grilled burgers and had a few beers and talked about our experiences in the service – Where we had been. What we had done.

He told us a few stories about his sergeant in basic training, and we all laughed. Every vet has a story about “that bastard.”

He also said the only thing he ever regretted about being in the service was that he never got to have a family.

A young man without kids, I didn’t think anything of it at the moment.

After the farmer left, one of the older men explained he’d been in the “Bataan Death March” during WWII.

After American troops were surrendered by Major General Edward P. King in the Philippines, Japanese troops marched 76,0000 prisoners of war from Mariveles, on the southern tip of the Bataan Peninsula, to San Fernando, 55 miles away, and ultimately to “Camp O’Donnel” in Mukden.

If prisoners couldn’t make the trek and fell down, they were dragged to the side of the road and shot, bayoneted or beheaded. Others were made to dig their own graves and buried alive.

Just 54,000 men reached O’Donnel. Thousands more died afterward from malnutrition and disease before the camp was finally liberated in August 1945.

He survived the march itself. But while in captivity at O’Donnel, in what we might call a war crime today, his Japanese captors cut off his testicles.

Decades later, I am still humbled and honored by the experience

▪ See A MAN AMONG MEN on page 16

Local heroes

Continued from page 15

▪ Edwards, Dallas, Army National Guard, 1992

▪ Elgert, Walter, U.S. Navy, 1975

▪ Emry, Kenneth, U.S. Air Force, Civil Engineer, 1981-2004

▪ Faust, Donald, U.S. Army, IHO, Sergeant, Honorably Discharged 1965

▪ Foster, Larry, U.S. Army, 2005, 95B, Formerly Houghton Lake

▪ Frank, Dennis A., U.S. Army, Vietnam, 1970

▪ Goodman, Gene N., U.S. Air Force, 1962

▪ Gordert-Jones, Tina, U.S. Navy, Hospital Corpsman, 1984

▪ Harmon, Tom, U.S. Air Force, Jet Fighter Crew Chief, 1962-68

▪ Headland, Ron, U.S. Army, 1983

▪ Herblet, Troy, U.S. Army, 2021, Germany, Georgia and North Carolina, from Grayling

Local heroes

Continued from page 16

▪ Hicks, Robert, 379th Bombardment

▪ Hock, J.D., U.S. Army, 26V Signal Corps, 1984-88, Oscoda

▪ Holland, Michael, US Army, 1970, Vietnam, East Tawas

A man among men

Continued from page 17

of having met him. He asked for nothing from any man. He accepted no pity from anyone. And he lived life on his terms.

So, whenever I hear “Taps” being played, I think of this man and what he gave for his county.

And the many veterans who were just glad to make it back home –alive.

▪ Holland, Thomas, USAF, WWII.

▪ Hughes, Lillian, U.S. Navy, 1993

▪ Hunt, Alan, U.S. Army, 1969, 11th CAV, Vietnam,

▪ Hus, Roger, U.S. Air Force, 1967-1998. CMSgt. Duty stations: Colorado, Florida, Texas, Greenland, Saudi Arabia, Michigan, Germany, California.

▪ Ingle, Barbara Ann, U.S. Navy, 1966-1969

▪ Irwin, Bradley, U.S. Army, Vietnam

▪

▪ Johnson, Josh, Active Duty, U.S. Navy, Hale

▪ Johnson, Matthew, U.S. Marine Corps, formerly of Hale

▪ Johnston, Alan, U.S. Air Force, 576th FLTS/30th MXS, 1992 –1997

Local heroes

Continued from page 17

▪ Jones, Kenny, 1976-1980, U.S. Air Force, 754th Radar Sq, Port Austin AFS, MI; 1983-1985, 1438th Engineer Det., Camp Grayling; 1985-1993, 127th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance, Weapons Branch, Selfridge ANG Base, MI; 2000-2017, Ammunition Supply Point, Camp Grayling, MI

▪ Jordan, Gary, U.S. Navy, 195761. Machinist Mate. USS Cotten, USS O'Hare and the USS New, St. Helen, MI

▪ Kirkendall, Cecil, 1944. Glandorf, Ohio. Was a casualty of World War II on Nov.17, 1944 at the age of 29. Second Army Division. Landed on Omaha Beach June 9, 1944. He is buried at the American Cemetery and Memorial Margraten in the Netherlands. He is honored and remembered by the people of Michigan and Ohio.

▪ Klatt, Lilly, USMC SGT- July 1998-Oct 2005 Mio

▪ Klatt, Andrew, USMC SGTMAJ ret. - Jan 1998-Jun 2022, Mio

▪ Luck, David, Missile Technician Second Class (E5), MT2/SS, U.S.S George C. Marshall, Discharge 1/20/94, Was Stationed at Groton, CT, Roscommon

▪ Mathews, Gerald, U.S. Army, 1967

▪ Mayhew, Leonard, U.S. Navy, Korean War

Local heroes

Continued from page 18

▪ McKuen, William, U.S. Marine Corps, 2020, Prescott

▪ McIsaac, Stacy, 2010-2012, U.S. Army, 14E Patriot Missile Operator and Maintainer, Fort Bliss, El Paso, TX

▪ Melvin, Ken, U.S. Air Force, 1967, Basic Training, Roscommon

▪ Nieman, Marilyn, U.S. Army, Journalist, 1973

▪ Norgan, Dale, U.S.M.C. 77-83, Retired from U.S. Post Office 2024

▪ Pallas, Peter, USAF. Retired 1989. Volunteer in support of the Michigan National Guard as State Ombudsman director. Team mediates misunderstandings between active Guard members and their employers.

▪ Peltier, Branden R., U.S. Army, 2023

▪ Plohg, James, U.S. Army, Honorable discharge 1977

▪ Priest, Roger, 1st Marines, 3rd Division, Amphibious Amtrak Tractor Division, discharge date August 28, 1968. 2 tours; 2019 to current, Vol. Driver DAV for Crawford County

▪ Raymond, Daniel, U.S. Air Force, 1975

▪ Roberts, Dave, U.S. Army, 19731997

▪ Robertson, Ralph, U.S. Army, 2007-13; Afghanistan, 201202013, Mio

▪ Robinson III, Steven, U.S. Marine Corps, 2020

▪ See LOCAL HEROES on page 20

Local heroes

Continued from page 19

▪ Rollison, James C., U.S. Army, 101st Airborne, 1967

Area schools hold veteran events

NORTHEAST MICHIGAN –

High schools in the Up North Voice coverage area a celebrating our veterans in a variety of ways.

Events include:

Fairview Area Schools

Annual Veteran's Day Celebration Nov. 11. Doors open at noon; lunch at 12:30 p.m. and program at 1:15 p.m. Info: 989-848-7045.

Hale Area Schools

Hale will have its annual veterans ceremony at 1:30 p.m. in the school gym. The ceremony is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and will include at

flag folding ceremony led by Jordan Barclay, assisted by students. Refreshments will follow.

Mio-AuSable High School

Breakfast 8:45 a.m. at ceremony at 9:45 a.m. Meo Mio Stitchers presenting for Quilts of Valor. Student presentations.

Traditional events are also held at: Roscommon High School – 989275-6675

Ogemaw Heights High School –989-343-2020

Grayling High School - 989-3443508

▪ Serens, Michael A., U.S. Navy, 1986

▪ Shay, Robert A., U.S. Navy Seabees, 1970

▪ Shearer, Loren, U.S. Army, 2015, Navy, 1989, Houghton Lake

▪ Shilling, John, U.S Army, 1988

▪ Shilling, Rachele, U.S Army 1986, U.S Navy, 1992

▪ Shurtz, Jon, Specialist, U.S. Army, Active 2011-2014, 7th Engineer Battalion 642nd Engineer Support Company, Fort Drum, NY, Afghanistan 2012

▪ Smith, Suzette, U.S. Air Force, MBT 1981, 190th ARW, KSANG, Communications, retired 2011

▪ Stanaway, Logan, Active-duty U.S. Army, Korea, Roscommon

▪ Stopczynski, Stanley, U.S. Army, 1957-58

▪ Stutesman, Warren, U.S. Marine Corps, E-4, 1980-84, Mio

▪ Sutter, John, 1974, Vietnam, U.S.M.C., St. Helen

▪ Turrow, Denny, U.S. Army, Spec. 4, 1961-64, 2nd Battalion, 32nd Armored Division, Rose City.

▪ See LOCAL HEROES on page 22

Local heroes

Continued from page 20

▪ Urek, Gabriel, USAF, 2023, SSG, Remote sensor operator, 2017 graduate of Houghton Lake.

Gabriel Urech

▪ Venable, Robert D., U.S. Marine Corps, 1958

▪ Vittitow, Ron, U.S. Marine Corps, 1969, West Branch

▪ Waltz, Glenn, U.S. Army, Spec. 4, 1958-1960 at Ford Leonard Wood, Missouri and Fort Sheridan, Illinois. Communications Engineer. Dec. 2024.

▪ Woods, Mike, 2nd of 3 tours at Clark AB, Philippines; Civil Engineering Squadron 'Prime Beef' Team.

▪ Witherspoon, Calvin R., U.S. Army, 1974-1976, Michigan Army National Guard 1982-2009, SFC Retired Deployed Iraq/Kuwait 2004-05, Roscommon

Meet with fellow vets

NORTHERN MICHIGAN –Communities across the region host “coffee hours” for vets to get together.

Coffee Hours are a simple but meaningful way for those who’ve served to come together, swap stories, and enjoy some good company over a warm cup of coffee. It’s less about formal meetings and more about friendship—just a chance to sit down, relax, and catch up with folks who truly understand what it means to serve.

Events include:

Otsego County

1st Wed– Otsego Co. Veterans Coffee hour Gaylord Regional Airport, located at 1100 Aero Drive, Gaylord, MI 49735. 9 a.m. Info: 989731-7575

Ogemaw County

1st Wednesday at Ogemaw Commission on Aging at 1528 S. M-33 at 9 a.m. Ogemaw County Veterans Commission members are in attendance and hold board meeting afterward. Info: 989-345-5170.

Roscommon County

1st Thursday - Roscommon County Veterans Coffee hour at 9-10 a.m. at Blodgett Airport, located at 5218 E Houghton Lake Drive. 989366-7660.

2nd Thursday, Good Shepherd Methodist Church, 149 West Robinson Lake Road, Roscommon, 9-11 a.m. Personal care pantry available. Info: 989-275-6047.

Alcona County

1st Sunday of month 2-4 p.m. at Lincoln-Alcona High School, 51 North Varlow Road in Harrisville. Info: (989) 724-9510. (Schedule varies).

Crawford County

2nd Thursday - Crawford County Veterans Coffee, 10-11 a.m. at American Legion Post 106 in Grayling located at 106 S James Street in Grayling, Info: (989) 3443861

Oscoda County

3rd Tuesday – Oscoda County Veterans “get together” at office in Mio, at 205 East 11th Street in Mio. Hours alternate between morning and evening. Info: 989-826-9500.

Cheboygan County

4th Wednesday - Veterans Coffee at Great Lake Grill in Cheboygan at 817 East State Street in Cheboygan. 9 a.m. Info: (231) 627-8833

Alpena County

Fourth Thursday at Art from 9-10 a.m. in the Loft in the Center Building at 109 Second Ave, Third Floor; 989-354-9671.

Iosco County

3rd Thursday —Iosco County Veterans Coffee, American Legion Post, 211 located 900 E. Lincoln St, East Tawas, 9-10 a.m.; Info: 989362-6571 rwhitney@ioscocounty.org.

3rd Wednesday – Oscoda VFW located at 240 Chrysler in Oscoda, 9-10 a.m.; 989-739-3128.

My time in the service

By Denny Turrow

I enlisted at age 17, with my mother's signature, right after I graduated from West Branch Public High School in June 1961.

I took my first train ride from Detroit to Fort Knox, Kentucky. Basic Training is a 8-week process. but we were cut short to six weeks because of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

I was shipped to Fort Riley, Kansas and into the 'Bloody Red One' 1st Infantry Division. We were to be Combat Ready by Dec. 1. The Berlin Wall began construction on Aug. 13, my birthday.

Dec. 1 came and went and I was then transferred to the 3rd Armored Division in Germany. I was stationed in a small town, Kirch Goens, 35 miles north of Frankfort, Germany. It was about the size of West Branch.

Every month we would conduct a “Readiness Test” and it come at any time day or night. We called them 'alerts' and it was to see how fast we could clear our post with all

of our armament; tanks and artillery. Our main defense position was the Fulda Gap because that was the route that every attack from Russia came through that gap. (Think Cumberland Gap)

My first alert was early morning, pitch black out. We drove East for over an hour and took our defensive position. A bit after daylight I asked my commander what we were doing and how long would we be here.

He answered, "Our assignment is to slow down a Russian invasion. If we hold this for three minutes we've accomplished our mission." That was a eye opener! Luckily Russia didn't move on us. We were in the midst of the Cold War and continued harassment from Russia.

I did get a opportunity to travel to West Germany and West Berlin. I'd never witnessed oppression before and it left a unforgettable memory.

My time in Germany was up in June 1964 and I was discharged on June 5. I was 20.

Roscommon Schools fight hunger

ROSCOMMON - At the October 20 board meeting, the Roscommon Area Public School Board and Transportation & Maintenance Director Joe Meadows were honored with a certificate and letter of appreciation from Roscommon Food Distribution Partnership leaders.

The partnership thanked RAPS for providing the Bus Garage as a distribution site since 2018, ensuring a convenient location as food needs continue to rise. Volunteer coordinator Brent Curry praised Meadows for coordinating monthly preparations — moving buses,

managing schedules, and keeping operations running smoothly.

Since 2018, the RAPS Bus Garage has hosted over 70 distributions, assisting 14,000 households, supporting 31,500 people, and distributing over 1.2 million pounds of food — with more than 150 RAPS students volunteering.

The next food distribution will be on November 22. Vehicles should line up by 9 a.m.

For details, contact Good Shepherd UMC of the North at 989275-5577.

OSCODA COUNTY ARTIST OF THE MONTH- Introducing November’s Oscoda County Artist of the month, Ethan Aviles! Ethan is a bright and enthusiastic 9-year-old with autism. He shines with intelligence, compassion, and creativity. His deep connection with animals and passions for running, art, performance, and music bring him and those around him immense joy. Ethan's presence is not only a gift, but also inspires others with his kindness, energy, and love for life.

Homecoming highlights

Hale

Cue the laughs!

GRAYLING - The AuSable Artisan Village Community Theatre Presents: Drinking Habits by Tom Smith.

Get ready for laughter and chaos in this hilarious farce! At the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing, two nuns secretly make wine to save their convent—until undercover reporters (and former fiancés) arrive, sparking a frenzy of mistaken identities, suspicions, and spilled secrets.

Directed by: Penny Podjaske

Assistant Director: Olivia Van De

Ven

Showtimes:

• Friday, Nov. 7 at 7:00 PM (doors open 6:00 PM)

• Saturday, Nov. 8 at 7:00 PM (doors open 6:00 PM)

• Sunday, Nov. 9 at 4:30 PM (doors open 3:30 PM)

The AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center is located at 122 Michigan Ave, Grayling.

Buy your tickets now at https:// www.artisanvillage.org/events/

Roots and Remnants

A pilgrim legacy

By Donnie Boursaw

Genealogy has been around for thousands of years and is rooted deeply in ancient civilizations. The earliest known genealogical records are from 1500 B.C. in China, while European-based records began in 1500 A.D. Members of the noble class, especially those with hereditary or honorary titles, began keeping family records centuries before it became common among the general population. The desire to understand one's roots and connect to our ancestors has been a part of human experience for centuries and has evolved over time.

Nine generations ago, on September 6, 1620, a cargo ship named the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth England. The ship was small, measuring 100 feet long by 24 feet wide. On board were 102 passengers fleeing religious persecution and seeking the promised safety of an unknown land. There were 74 men, 30 of whom were crew members, and 28 women. Thirty percent of the passengers were under the age of 18.

“Americans” to set foot on United States Soil.

John Alden who was a cooper (a maker and repairer of barrels and cask) was a member of the crew and his soon to be wife was Priscilla Mullins, a “separatist” (nonmember of the Anglican church) was accompanied by her parents. In 1621 or 1623 they became one of the first marriages performed in the “new world”. There were 10 children born to this couple, 4 boys, 6 girls, and 70 grandchildren. Thus, the Alden family of America began.

The youngest, Humility Cooper, was one year old and the oldest, John Chilton, was 64. The average age of the travelers was 34 and their occupations ranged from homemakers to gentlemen. Their stations in life were varied, and although some were “well to do”, none were wealthy.

These average, non-descript people embarked on a 3000-mile voyage across the open ocean. It took 10 weeks (66 days) to cross the Atlantic. They landed in what is now Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on Nov 11, 1620, and became the first

Fast forward 405 years. In a small obscure Michigan county called Roscommon, in the town of Houghton Lake, three “mature women,” keepers of their family’s histories joined the Roscommon County Genealogical Society. Two of the ladies have been members of the Society for years and are friends, while the third is new. Volunteering to share their skills and expertise with others seeking to discover their own roots they have discovered are related. The three of them are 11th cousins. Each a direct descendent of three of the sons of John and Priscilla Alden.

Curious about your own family? Ever thought of being related to someone famous, or finding out where your family originated? What does your last name mean and where did it come from? When did your family come to America? Are you a second, third, or fourth generation American? The Roscommon County Genealogical Society can help you find out. E-mail them at roscogen0983@gmail.com and join.

Chamber of Commerce Director Jay Jacobs worked the front table with Maddie Hiller.

SENIORS IN ACTION – The Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its annual Senior Expo at the Northern Center, drawing a strong turnout from residents and organizations. The event featured a wide variety of vendors offering information, resources, and services tailored to seniors. Attendees also enjoyed a delicious food tasting courtesy of the Northern Center.

~ Photos by Mark Constance / mconstance@upnorthvoice.com

King Nursing and Rehabilitation was represented by (l-r) Makenna Spindler, Brynlee Speakers, and Elena, Hailey and Taylor Hebner.

VETS HONORING

VETS- Roscommon

resident Ron Wellbaum passed away September 9. To honor his legacy, the family held a memorial service on October 4. Veteran Dave Luck from Roscommon presented his widow Holly Wellbaum with a burial flag while retired service members played taps in his honor. Ron’s daughter Kristi Stachurski said, “the veterans made an awful day beautiful for my family.”

Bucket list: Checked!

By Sarah Novak sarah.upnorthv@gmail.com

NORTHERN MICHIGAN- Have you ever dreamed of paddling the full length of the AuSable River?

76-year-old Curran resident Paula Taylor successfully crossed this adventure of a lifetime off her bucket list this August.

When paddler Taylor mentioned her aspiration of traveling down the AuSable River to her pastor Reverend Paula Timm-Potrykus (age 63), Timm-Potrykus offered to help turn her dream into a reality. With years of experience completing week long excursions through remote provincial parks in Canada, this would mark the first time TimmPotrykus traveled the entire 125 miles of the mighty AuSable.

Timm-Potrykus and Taylor were joined by two other “newbie” canoers, Patty Hopper (age 67) and Jennifer Marske (age 28) on this 5-day long canoeing journey. On Sunday, August 10 the four women and Marske’s dog-Harvey, gathered after church to pack up their gear and drove to Grayling to launch their canoes.

“I had the course all mapped out beforehand, down to where were would camp every night and how many miles we aimed to accomplish daily,” said Timm-Potrykus.

They traveled with two 17 ft

lightweight canoes to allow for a lighter load when portaging the 6 hydroelectric dams along the river. Each canoer brought with them a dry bag for personal items. They also took along kitchen gear that consisted of a water filtration system, single burner propane stove, TimmPotrykus’s homemade dehydrated meals, and plenty of hearty snacks.

“When you’re paddling, you’re all a team and it’s all about survival. You must be comfortable with the water and work together,” said TimmPotrykus.

On Thursday morning Marske was called to attend a mandatory EMS meeting for her work, so TimmPotrykus’s husband Jon Potrykus (71) joined the group to finish the trek to Oscoda. When they hit the open water of Lake Huron on Friday morning, they were all ecstatic they had completed the rigorous journey and Taylor could cross this item off her bucket list.

These ladies prove that age does not dictate your capabilities, but it is your mental fortitude that allows you to persevere through strenuous activities. Their story has inspired others and since the trip there have been multiple seniors’ approach Timm-Potrykus requesting her guidance to tackle this same adventure. Timm-Potrykus is now considering offering guided tours down the AuSable River.

Alone on the ice

Home Country By Slim Randles

As I lay there in my super-duper borrowed-from-the-Army mummy bag, I had time to think about things. Mostly, I pondered how stupid I’d been to take a dog team out across the North Slope of Alaska in November.

As I can now contemplate, 50 years later, it was a dumb thing to do, making the first crossing north to south from Prudhoe Bay’s frozen oil fields to the Brooks Range. Brooks Range roughly translates to “that frozen rockpile there to the south.”

But even then, in the deadly silence of the arctic, I knew my doing this was … well, me. I guessed at the time it would cost me my life, but I don’t know if I could’ve done otherwise. I HAD to do it. Ever since that first dogsled trip nearly a year earlier, I knew I was entangled in driving a dog team for good purposes. And good stories.

That first trip, from what was then McKinley (now Denali) National

GPA ARTS & CRAFTS - The Grayling Promotional Association (GPA) celebrated creativity and community spirit with its annual Arts & Crafts Fair Oct. 4 at Grayling Elementary School. The fair brings together more than 70 talented artisans and crafters, each showcasing a variety of handmade and one-of-a-kind goods. Guests could also participate in the popular quilt raffle. For info on the GPA visit graylingpromotional.org.

Park was to prove there were good dogs in the Anchorage pound. My whole eight dog team came from there. And we succeeded in finding homes for each of the dogs in my team except one, and I kept him.

This time, however, the trip was to raise money for the Jesse Lee Home for Children in Anchorage.

But there in the tent, there was just this silence. The wind blew mercilessly over the little arctic tent I had pitched there. The team dogs had long since tunneled down into the snow to sleep off the storm. And this silence. Well, it was a secret, and I realized it at the time. Those foolish people who do what I did discover, too late, that life disappears and is just gone. No more deadlines at the paper. No more family. And no one would ever really know how I died because I was alone in this little tent on the frozen Sagavanirktok River somewhere near Franklin Bluffs.

Then, after a few days of thinking I was the last person on earth, I heard the helicopter.

If you helicopter fellows are still around, thank you once again. The last 50 years have had a lot of love and laughter in them.

Brought to you by Slim’s first book “Dogsled, a True Tale of the North,” available at your library or from amazon.com.

~ Photos by Mark Constance / mconstance@uporthvoice.com

Bottom-Left: Donna Duvernois is pictured with a variety of Christmas Trees she created.

Bottom-Right: Sharon Longer and Becky Walrath were selling raffle tickets for a massive gift basket.

Enchanted evening at the preserve

By Kalsa Parker Browning, Education DirectorMarguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve

ROSCOMMON- Step into a world of wonder and imagination at one of the Preserve’s most magical seasonal traditions! Join us for our Fall Fairy House event and help create enchanting nature homes for our mythical woodland friends. Whether you’re a child at heart, a family looking for a creative outing, or an artist who loves working with natural materials, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the beauty of fall together.

Mark your calendar for Tues., Nov. 11, from 6- 7:30 p.m. as we build and decorate tiny fairy dwellings. Once completed, each fairy home will be displayed along

the Preserve’s trails for visitors to discover and for the fairies of Gahagan to enjoy!

This beloved event is open to all ages, and no artistic experience is required, just bring your imagination and a sense of wonder. RSVP today at www.gahagannature.org/calendar or email us at info@gahagannature. org.

Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Your participation helps cover materials and supports our ongoing educational programs. Come share in this evening of creativity, fairy-inspired fun, and leave a little magic in the woods behind!

November news at the Senior Center

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

OSCODA COUNTY- Happy Fall and Happy Thanksgiving! October started with a touch of warmth, but cooler fall days are now here to stay. Be sure your home is ready for winter—seal out drafts and stock up on essentials like bottled water, nonperishable food, blankets, flashlights, and batteries.

Remember to set your clocks back 1 hour on Sat., Nov. 2 before bed.

Upcoming Events:

• Board Meeting: Mon., Nov. 10 at 10 a.m. (public welcome).

• Veterans Day: Nov. 11

– Veterans eat free lunch as a thankyou for your service.

• CSFP (Senior Cheese Box):

Fri., Nov. 14 at 12 p.m. at Tri-Pointe Church of God in Mio. Applications available at the Senior Center.

• Thanksgiving Meal: Wed., Nov. 20, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Donation $4.00 (60+), $7.00 (under 60).

• Together We Can Food Pantry: Nov. 20, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Bring ID and a banana box.

• Senior Center Closed: Nov. 27–28 for Thanksgiving.

Weekly Activities:

• Exercise Class: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

• Euchre: Wednesdays at 12:45 p.m.

In September, 2,397 homedelivered meals and 631 congregate meals were served—thank you to all who made this possible!

The Beaver Moon will peak on Nov. 5. Take a moment to enjoy its beauty, count your blessings, and share kindness wherever you can.

Suzanne can be reached at 989826-3025.

Leroy R. Dankert, 78, Roscommon, passed Sep 13

Darlene M. Sutfin, 66, Prudenville, passed Sep 8

Jack G. Quance, 72, St. Helen, passed Sep 13

Leonard D. Grezeszak, 89, West Branch, passed Sep 15

Marion E. Calverley, 95, Hale, passed Sep 14

Dorothy R. Poland, 61, Oscoda, passed Sep 14

Irene Eberline, 95, Oscoda, passed Sep 15

Pamela Raquepaw (Hines), 72, Mio, passed Sep 17

Joseph A. Smith, 73, Roscommon, passed Sep 17

Brian G. Burke, 90, Roscommon, passed Sep 20

Thomas F. Young, 89, St. Helen, passed Sep 18

Edwin H. Wegner, 75, Prudenville, passed Sep 20

Penny M. Flores, 67, Houghton Lake, passed Sep 21

Norman C. Schmidt, 94, West Branch, passed Sep 17

Stephen J. Hennigar, 77, Oscoda, passed Sep 16

Cheryl H. (Davis) Borts, 69, Hale, passed Sep 16

William H. Nicholas, 90, Grayling, passed Sep 14

Linda Roberts, 79, Grayling, passed Sep 18

Mary E. Prowse, 68, St. Helen,

Obituaries & Death Notices

passed Sep 23

Beverly A. Peppler, 90, Prudenville, passed Sep 22

Hazel JoAnn Hostetler, 91, West Branch, passed Sep 25

Harriet L. Bailey, 84, Prescott, passed Sep 23

Breana M. Perez, 26, Mio, passed Sep 17

Virginia S. Sherwood, 84, Mio, passed Sep 23

Jodi S. Johnson, 53, Mio, passed Sep 23

Donelda “Doni” G. Green, 82, Oscoda, passed Sep 18

Charles “Chuck” Feldman, 86, Roscommon, passed Sep 24

Estella "Tillie" Gray, 88, Prudenville, passed Sep 27

Caroline McCleery, 99, Prudenville, passed Jul 27

Helen R. Gretzinger, 101, Houghton Lake, passed Sep 28

Kimberly D. Evon, 69, Roscommon, passed Sept 27

pumpkin giveaway. Pictured (l-r) are Diana Fesko, Joyce Barkway, Diane Ocenasek, Jeri Ann Janisse, Diane Babcock and Megan Coleman.

KIDTOBERFEST

AT HIAWATHA – The 9th Annual Beacon Assembly's Fall Festival and Kidtober Fest was held Oct. 4 at the new canoe launch, just across the river from Wallace Park on the AuSable River. The event was held in partnership with the Village of Roscommon.

~ Photos by Mark Constance / mconstance@upnorthvoice.com

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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.

Richard E. Kiessel, 85, Roscommon, passed Sep 27

Carol J. Anschuetz, 68, Tawas City, passed Sep 27

David C. Polmounter, 87, Grayling, passed Sep 28

Delores M. Coffeen, 90, Grayling, passed Sep 29

David C. Arnott, 65, Rose City, passed Sep 28

Daisy I. Hillman, 100, East Tawas, passed Sep 30

James F. Czadzeck, 83, St. Helen, passed Oct 4

Anita K. Marz, 69, West Branch, passed Oct 12

Brian J. Evans, 70, Rose City, passed Oct 13

James E. Schmitt, 88, West Branch, passed Oct 15

Rosemary D. Meyer, 72, Prescott, passed Oct 4

Justus "Jud" J. Austin, Jr., 86, Tawas City, passed Oct 13

Jewel R. Schuster, 84, Grayling, passed Oct 14

Garland “Gabe” G. Jacobs, 85, Lupton, passed Oct 16

Shirley E. Compau, 66, Prescott, passed Oct 14

Cheryl A. Burke, 63, Oscoda, passed Oct 15

Aileen A. Kunitz, 82, Hale, passed Oct 16

John A. Thompson, 84, Tawas City, passed Oct 18

Barbara K. O'Neil, 85, Houghton Lake, passed Oct 1

Luke G. Passmore, 61, Mio, passed Oct 3

Terry J. Wright, 62, Lovells, passed Oct 3

Jeannette Kitchen, 95, Grayling, passed October 4

Paul A. Bosler, 59, Tawas City, passed Oct 5

Elke E. Meyn, 89, Grayling, passed Oct 3

Patricia Densinger and Angel Shory prepped food and donates for Beacon Assembly of God Church.

BRAS FOR A CAUSE -

Rosebud’s Quilt Shop hosted a “Bra Auction” Oct. 21 at the Barn at Higgins Lake to honor Breast Cancer Awareness month, “The event raised almost $7,000. The bra, “DD Dinks and Drives,” modeled by Pickleball Instructor John Lindsey and donated by Lisa and Skip Butler, sold for $600. Other models, the names of the bra, and donors (l-r) include: Jeff Johnson (Breast Implants - Sandy Johnson), Clayton Wicka (A Pirates Life - Copper Kettle) and Scott Burns (Mounds of Winter Fun - Jenny VanDuinen.

Michael J. Shipley, 49, Tawas City, passed Oct 18

Ronald G. Thalhammer, 82, Higgins Lake, passed Oct 15

Larry R. Christiansen, 82, Prudenville, passed Oct 16

Joyce E. Ingalls, 88, Grayling, passed Oct 16

Theodore "Jack" J. Kolka, 91, Grayling, passed Oct 20

Diane L. Kent, 87, Grayling, passed Oct 16

Falling for a cause

WEST BRANCH- On Sat., Oct. 4, River House, Inc. held its Falling for a Cause fundraiser at Lumber Jack Lodge in West Branch. The evening featured a performance by Northern Blend Chorus, an appetizer buffet, and over 40 silent auction items.

Special thanks to Community Financial Credit Union and Top Tire of Houghton Lake for sponsoring the event.

Centerpieces, created by survivors, reflected the contrast between outward appearances and inner emotions. Each table included description cards explaining the mask-making process and its meaning.

As always, handmade hearts were shared with attendees—a reminder of their logo, “a heart in a house,” and their mission to be a safe home filled with love.