WANTED - Standing timber. Cash in advance. Maple Rapids Lumber, 989-682-4225 days. 989-875-4565 evenings.
SHOPPER’S GUIDE DEADLINE - Thursdays at NOON.
TRACTOR FOR SALE with loader. Belarus. Rear tires 13.6.28, front 6.00.16. $1,500 or best offer. 989-637-4789.
FOR SALE - Maytag washer. 6 years old. White, runs great. $100. Phone 517-902-9633.
It’s sad that you’re not with us at this lovely time of year, But we have precious memories of when you both were here, You made each Christmas special, the way it’s meant to be, and filled it with your love, kindness and generosity.
You were the dearest Mom and Dad, we know that we were blessed. and pray that Christmas Angels bring you sweet eternal rest.
BOOK YOUR EVENT with Fat Guys Burgers! A local food truck serving local food. Employee Lunch • Grad Party • Community Event. Find us on Facebook and Instagram, call 616-9154655 or send an email to events@fatguysburgertruck.com
PORTLAND FOR RENT10461 Charlotte Hwy. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1 car garage. $1000/month. Call/text 517-994-8830.
FOR SALE - Firewood (14) Facecord. $65.00 each. Pick up or delivery. Call 616-4304464.
ROOFING - Tear offs and shingle overs. 25+ years experience. Free estimates. Call Stan the Man, 616-902-5486
TRASH REMOVAL TODAY
50% Off dumpster rentals and clean outs. Fast, friendly service. 616527-2798.
Stop in with us for all your wood cutting supplies. From saws to chains! Used and new saws in stock! Oregon bars and chains for any saw! We can also fix your saw! Countryside Sales & Service. 6201 Stage Rd. Ionia 989637-4795.
SARANAC PLUMBING - All your plumbing needs at a reasonable price! Service and Installation of Water heaters. Call me before you call anyone else! Guaranteed to satisfy you with excellent results! 616-262-9825.
Call for a Free Insurance Quote or Review… Becky Wagner, All Seasons Insurance 989-584-3155.
UPHOLSTERY - Chair caning, industrial sewing, marine canvas and tarp repair/refurbishment. 269-838-6387.
† BUSH
Linda Lou Bush, age 77 of Belding passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.
† BUTLER
Larry L. Butler, age 64 of Palo passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2024.
† BYRNE
Jeanne Lorraine Byrne, age 67 of Belding passed away Monday, December 23, 2024.
† CARD
Michael Patrick Card, age 60 of Sheridan (formerly of Saranac) passed away Friday, December 27, 2024.
† CODY
Susan Joy Cody, age 67 of Ionia passed away Monday, December 23, 2024.
† DECKER
Marty Decker, age 52 of Lake Odessa passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.
† DROSTE
Charles Joseph Droste, age 95 of Saranac passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
Susan Joy Cody, age 67, of Ionia, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024. She was born on December 6, 1957 the daughter of Wayne and Genevieve (Patterson) Linder. She graduated from Central Montcalm High School in 1976. Susan was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Ed Linder. Surviving are her husband, Kevin Cody; son, Jeff (Michelle) Cody; grandchildren, Tyson and Addison Cody; siblings, Sandra (Paul) Hansen, Mike Linder, Dave (Marie) Linder and Scott (Amy) Linder. A private family service will be held. Interment will be in Tuttle Cemetery. A special thank you to the neighbors, Marsha Hubble, Bonnie Galloway and Marlene Krieger for their care given to Susan. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ionia County Office on Aging in memory of Susan. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.
†
DARREN LEE MEYERS, age 55 of Muskegon passed away December 30, 2024 of a brain aneurysm while at the Muskegon Conservation Club. He loved and was loved my many at the Club. He called it “his happy place.”
He was born at Pennock Hospital in Hastings March 13, 1969 & attended Saranac Community Schools.
Darren is survived by a daughter Ariana Marie Meyers of Grand Rapids, a brother Mark Meyers of Parrish, Fl and his parents Marlin & Margaret Meyers also of Parrish, FL and special family Mama Sue Haddock of Holton & Mary Ann VanDyke and Larry VanDyke.
Cremation has taken place. No arrangements have been made.
† FAGERLIN
Tom Fagerlin, age 81 of Belding passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.
† FINLEY
Jason Emery ‘Ace’ Finley, age 55 of Belding passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
† GASPER
Mary Kay Gasper, age 74 of Belding passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024.
† GUILD
Kurt Edward Guild, age 72 of Clarksville passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
† HABEGGER
Roger Lee Habegger, age 86 of Portland passed away Monday, December 30, 2024.
† HENDEE
Gary Allan Hendee, age 88 of Pewamo passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024.
† LOPER
Linda L. Loper, age 77 of Belding passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
† McCLELLAND
Phillip Richard McClellend, age 77 of Lake Odessa passed away Thursday, December 19, 2024.
† MERRIFIELD
Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Merrifield age 51, of Portland passed away Thursday, December 26, 2024.
† NIELSEN
Anna Theresa Nielsen, age 97 of Belding passed away Saturday, December 21, 2024.
† RIDGE
Robert Carl Ridge, age 77 of Rose City (formerly of Lake Odessa) passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024.
† SMITH
Elaine Marie Smith, age 78 of Lake Odessa passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.
† THOMPSON
Sara A. Thompson, age 22 of Portland passed away Wednesday, December 1830, 2024.
† WALTER
Joyce Lorene Walter, age 99 of Saranac, passed away Thursday, December 19, 2024.
† WOODEN
John Bruce Wooden, age 77 of Portland passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Change is in the air when a new year arrives. People often use the turn of the calendar as an opportunity to redecorate living spaces or revamp their wardrobes. As individuals narrow down their projects, they may want to incorporate a fresh and trendy palette of colors. For 2025, the options are decidedly warm, cozy and earthy. Industry color experts routinely recommend hues that can elevate homes, offices and other spaces. The following is a selection of shades that insiders predict will color the world for the coming year.
Sherwin-Williams has named Quietude its color of the year. This soft sage color exudes serenity and understated luxury. Grayish-green with a touch of blue, Quietude is a soothing color of tranquility. Sherwin-Williams also offers a Color Collection of the Year that includes Convivial Yellow, Spiced Cider, and Nomadic Desert, among others.
MOCHA MOUSSE
The title of Pantone® Color of the Year 2025 belongs to Mocha Mousse. Just as the name implies, this rich, warm brown suggests the
CAREGIVER WANTED!
A part-time position is available caring for older adults in a family-oriented Adult Foster Care Home. We seek a kind, patient, and reliable caregiver to help promote a happy and healthy environment. Responsibilities include supporting nine residents’ daily needs by preparing home-cooked meals, administering medication, and doing light housework. The residents appreciate a caregiver with compassion and attentiveness who enjoys wholesome conversations and activities—a competitive salary of $18-$20/hour. Reliable transportation is a must; CPR certification preferred. If interested, please contact Brenda or Darcy at 616-897-0799, or you may apply in person.
Lacey’s, LLC 11981 Potters Road Lowell, MI 49331
intoxicating qualities of coffee and chocolate. It can create a feeling of comfort in any space, or even serve as the basis of a chocolate wardrobe color palette. According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, Mocha Mousse is “sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic.”
Glidden’s 2025 color of the year title belongs to Purple Basil, a dusty, neutral violet purple hue with mauve undertones. It embraces rich, warm energy, and is equally at home in a bedroom as it is in a dining room.
Cinnamon Slate Cinnamon Slate is moody and introspective. This Benjamin Moore color blends rich plum and chocolate brown that the company calls “adaptable, yet distinct.” In fact, it is quite similar to Glidden’s color of the year, but a tad more brown in nature.
WHY BUY LOCAL? Give Back to Your Community! It has been shown, that locally owned businesses donate over twice as much per sales dollar to local non-profits, events, and teams compared to nationally owned businesses.
HOUSE TO RENT - Ionia, close to schools. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath. $1,100/ month, water, sewer, trash included. call/text 616-902-2265.
EMERGENCY ROAD Service. Saranac and surrounding areas. On road repairs. Rob’s Towing & Auto Salvage. “CHEAP HOOKER” 616- 2927649 or 616-295-8820.
Remember a Veteran! Purchase a brick in their honor at the Belding Veterans Park. Contact Holly at 616-8945488. $50 per brick.
E- MAIL CLASSIFIEDS TO: kara.raimer@att.net
Homeowners may want to consider Caramelized, an earthy terracotta brown that is Dunn-Edwards’ 2025 Color of the Year. Caramelized is versatile and elegant, and it complements both modern and vintage interiors.
Paula Taylor, Graham & Brown’s head stylist and trend specialist, calls Elderton “a chameleon color that can be sophisticated yet cozy.” This medium brown is contemporary with a huge amount of depth. It may work in a rustic living room or a cozy library. The new year arrives with a warm, saturated color palette that can revitalize spaces with cozy appeal.
SH252653
C & W TOOL SALES is now closed to prepare for a liquidation sale at a later date.
SHOPPER’S GUIDE HOURSMonday to Wednesday 8AM3PM, Thursday 8AM-1PM. Closed Friday-Sunday.
RECONDITIONED BATTERIES: $40 plus exchange. Wandel Auto Salvage, 2200 Welch Road, Ionia. 616-5273792.
TICKETS!!!! We carry double roll raffle tickets for $9 + tax per roll at The Shoppers Guide. Also available: Custom printed tickets! Call for a quote. 616-642-9411. 13 N. Bridge Street. Downtown Saranac.
HAVING GARAGE DOOR PROBLEMS? We can Help! Call us for service or a new install. O.C. Construction 616-2914520 - Darrell.
Birds are beautiful creatures that can make a lawn and garden feel even more serene. Providing snacks to supplement what birds naturally find in the wild guarantees up close and personal interactions with the scores of species that call neighborhoods home.
Bird feeders are particularly important in colder climates and during wintertime when food may be scarce. Keeping birds well fed helps them survive over winter and continue to repopulate in the spring. Bird feeding isn’t all for the birds, either. Ashley Dayer, an associate professor in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech, argues that feeding birds also is a benefit to humans because it stimulates compassion for the animals.
The type of bird feeder a person places in the yard determines which species may be drawn to the property. The following are various types of feeders to consider.
SUET FEEDERS
Suet cakes are high-energy food sources that attract birds like woodpeckers and nuthatches. They are particularly beneficial in
E- MAIL CLASSIFIEDS TO: kara.raimer@att.net
DAVAL’S USED FURNITURE & ANTIQUES- 6 buildings with 15,000 sq. ft. of quality furniture, antiques and collectibles. SAVE TIME & MONEY. Shop Daval’s for the Best selection, Best Quality, Best Price. You have to see it to Believe it! We are truly a destination place and worth the drive. We buy Estates. Layaway terms available. Visa/ Mastercard/Discover accepted. 2 miles West of Hastings at 2084 W. M-43 Hwy. Near Bob’s Gun and Tackle. Hours Sunday 12-5pm, Mon-Fri, 10am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, 269-948-2463.
TRASH REMOVAL TODAY
50% Off dumpster rentals and clean outs. Fast, friendly service. 616527-2798.
colder months or regions where birds need extra fat for energy. These cage-like feeders snap around the rectangular suet cake and hang from a pole or tree.
GROUND FEEDER
Ground feeders are simple screen-bottomed trays that sit several inches off of the ground or on a deck to help keep seeds and grain from coming in contact with droppings. Ground feeders are a favorite of juncos, sparrows, goldfinches, and cardinals, among others.
SUGAR WATER FEEDER
These feeders come in different shapes, from tubes to round dishes, and are magnets to hummingbirds. They typically have red coloring to be more attractive to those high-speed flyers.
NYJER BIRD FEEDER
Small birds like goldfinches love to dine on nyjer seeds, which are tiny, black thistle seeds. These feeders are tube-shaped mesh socks designed to hold this specific seed. The small feeding ports prevent seed waste and cater to the
DRYWALL & PAINTING EXPERTS Gachter Son & Assoc. LLC Free estimates. 15 years experience, insured. 616-7553155 or 989-388-8343.
WANTED - Standing walnut trees and all types of hardwoods. Cash paid before cutting. 269-391-3297.
PORTLAND FOR RENT10461 Charlotte Hwy. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1 car garage. $1000/month. Call/text 517-994-8830.
Have you had a positive experience with a local business or organization? Shout it out to all of Ionia County here! Place your 25 word maximum Shout Out by calling 616 6429411; emailing kara.raimer@ att.net; or from our website www.ioniacountyshoppersguide.com. Free of charge for a limited time. Deadline is Noon on Thursday.
small beaks of finches.
HOPPER BIRD FEEDER
These are the feeders many people think of when they envision bird feeders. Hopper bird feeders hold a large amount of seed and often have a roof or a design that mimics a house or barn. The covered design helps to keep seeds dry and might be the best hanging feeder for people who live in areas with a lot of rain. Hoppers will attract blue jays, grackles, cardinals, and blackbirds.
TUBE FEEDERS
Tube feeders will attract an array
C & S DRYWALL - 20 years experience. Hang, finish, hand texture ceilings. Free estimates. 616-868-6140.
SNOWBLOWERS IN STOCK! New & Used! Don’t break your back using a shovel... buy a snowblower! Does yours not work? We have parts to fix it. Countryside Sales & Service. 6201 Stage Rd. Ionia 989-637-4795.
SHOPPER’S GUIDE DEADLINE - Thursdays at NOON.
NEED A DUMPSTER??????? Experience the PINK advantage.
Call Dumpster on Demand and ask about our Shopper’s Guide Special. 24/7 365 Customer Service. 616527-8143.
To all residents of the Ionia Conservation District, notice is hereby given that on the 25th day of March 2025, between the hours of 6:00 am and 6:30 pm, at 122 W. Superior Street, Muir, Michigan 48860, the director’s election will be held. Residents are individuals of legal age who can demonstrate residency in the Conservation District (Ionia County) via one (1) piece of identification.
of birds. They are cylindrical in shape with various ports to enable birds to perch and feed.
Window and smart bird feeders
These types of bird feeders attach to windows to allow homeowners to view the birds up close. Smart varieties have cameras on the feeders that will send a feed via an app to a smart phone or computer. Some even may identify the bird species on the feeder at any given point in time.
Bird feeders provide enjoyment for bird watchers and nutritious food various species. TF252663
SHOPPER’S GUIDE HOURSMonday to Wednesday 8AM3PM, Thursday 8AM-1PM. Closed Friday-Sunday.
SAYERS TREE SERVICE: Trimming, removal, brush chipping, lot clearing, and stump grinding. Free estimates. Insured. 616-5274762.
THANKS TO ALL the car & truck drivers who move over or slow down so walkers & bikers can exercise safely.
COLOR COPIES available at the Ionia County Shopper’s Guide, 13 Bridge Street, Saranac.
STEEL ROOFS - We put steel roofs on high barns. Free estimates. John Reurink. Call 616527-3635.
C & W TOOL SALES is now closed to prepare for a liquidation sale at a later date.
FREE PICK UP & DELIVERY! Call now to schedule your mower to be picked up and serviced for next year! Countryside Sales & Service. 6201 Stage Rd. Ionia 989-637-4795.
SARAH ROSSELL
616-446-2199
SROSSELL@ASI.TAX 6131 W. David Highway Saranac, MI 48881
–
U.S.A Flags in Stock at the Shoppers Guide. 13 N. Bridge St. Saranac. 616-642-9411.
WELCOME!! We are Open Monday-Friday 10am, to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm. Seymour Furniture. Downtown Ionia. 616-527-0630.
HANDYMAN SERVICES Saranac Area. Call Jordan at 616-430-5453.
DRIVER’S LICENSE SUSPENDED or REVOKED? Don’t get sucked into $100-$300 evaluation fees. I NEVER charge for your record evaluation and consultation! Driver’s license RESTORATION: $3,500 includes all filing fees and FREE consultation and evaluation of your case. Have a question? Call Attorney Martin Mead, 616-235-0330.Visit www.AttorneyMartinMead.com.
SEEING IS BELIEVING! Print advertising is where it’s at!
DRYWALL/REPAIR WORK. Big and Small jobs. Fully insured. 35 years experience. Call Tom Teunessen. 616-218-2877.
TRACTORS FOR SALE -
Minneapolis Moline U. Oliver 70. Allis-Chalmers CA with Mower Deck. 1-269-838-6387.
WHY BUY LOCAL? Build Community! The casual interactions you enjoy at locally owned businesses and public spaces encourage better relationships, community bonding, and building. They’re the ultimate social networking opportunities!
Multiple Online Auctions are ongoing now! Furniture, vehicles, tractor, farm implements, power tools, bar mirrors, Pyrex, 1980s-90s Playboy magazines and more! To bid, see entire catalogs visit Bid. SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC.com. Questions? Call 1-800-835-0495.
METAL ROOFING regular and shingle style, HALF OFF SPECIAL COLORS! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles. Vinyl siding. Licensed and insured builders for 40 years. AMISH CREW. 517-575-3695.
Adjustable Bed Brand New with mattress. Made in U.S.A, in plastic, with warranty. Retail Cost $3,995.00 sacrifice for $875.00 Call for showing or delivery: DanDanTheMattressMan.com. 989-923-1278
Amish-built mini-cabins starting at $5,295. Made in Michigan! We deliver statewide. Call 989-832-1866. MyNextBarn.com.
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-922-0420 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer – 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-888718-1856
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-844-3692501
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 1-844-5878518
Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-691-4117 today!
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-815-6233
Acculevel. Your foundation repair and basement waterproofing experts. Whether basement, crawl space or concrete slab we’ll guide you on the right path to a healthy home. Act now! Up to $600 off. Restrictions apply. Call for a free consultation. 1-844700-4986
We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-855-504-0056
We buy 8,000 cars/week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy 3 step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 833-324-2582
WANTED - Standing timber. Cash in advance. Maple Rapids Lumber, 989-682-4225 days. 989-875-4565 evenings.
TRACTOR FOR SALE with loader. Belarus. Rear tires 13.6.28, front 6.00.16. $1,500 or best offer. 989-637-4789.
FOR SALE - Firewood (14) Facecord. $65.00 each. Pick up or delivery. Call 616-4304464.
FOR SALE - Maytag washer. 6 years old. White, runs great. $100. Phone 517-902-9633.
Coming events (up to 30 words) can be placed in this column at no charge for nonprofit organizations. Deadline is noon on Thursday. Email to kara.raimer@att.net; send to the Ionia County Shopper’s Guide, Box 46, Saranac, MI 48881; or fax to 616-642-6040. Remember to include your name, address, and phone number.
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TUESDAY – AA MEETING Tuesdays at 7PM at Clarksville Bible Church, 191 S Main St. – IONIA –
JANUARY 6 – WINTER STORYTIME 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 7 – WINTER STORYTIME 10:30AM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 7 – TWISTED STITCHES
3-5PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 7 – KNITTING 6PM
Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 9 – TEEN ADVISORY
BOARD 3-3:30PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 13 – WINTER STO-
RYTIME 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 14 – WINTER STORYTIME 10:30AM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 14 – TWISTED STITCHES 3-5PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 14 – KNITTING 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 14 – RC BOOK CLUB 7PM FICL 302 W Main St.
JANUARY 18 – PENGUIN SCAVENGER HUNT 10:30AM-1:30PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St. Kids drop-in event.
JANUARY 20 – WINTER STORYTIME 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 20 – ADULT WINTER READING CHALLENGE Starts today!
JANUARY 21 – WINTER STORYTIME 10:30AM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 21 – TWISTED STITCHES 3-5PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 21 – KNITTING 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 22 – ADULT PUZZLE
CONTEST 1-3PM FICL 302 W Main St.
JANUARY 22 – PIPER SCHOOL
FRIENDS 11:30AM at Renucci’s.
Come for a time of fun and
reminiscing of our childhood. Questions, call Charlene at 616761-9944.
JANUARY 23 – DUCT TAPE CRAFT
3-4PM, grades 6-12. Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 27 – WINTER STORYTIME 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 28 – WINTER STORYTIME 10:30AM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 28 – TWISTED STITCHES 3-5PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 28 – KNITTING 6PM Ionia Community Library, 126 E Main St.
JANUARY 28 – HE-MAN BOOK CLUB 7PM El Mariachi.
JANUARY 29 – TRUE CRIME 6PM FICL 302 W Main St. Author Rod Sadler.
MONDAY – IMMUNIZATION
WALK-IN CLINIC 8:30-11:30AM and 12:30-3PM at the Ionia County Health Department, 175 E Adams St. Appointments also accepted. To schedule, call 616 527-5341, select 3.
WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY –
PREGNANCY SERVICES OF IONIA COUNTY FREE pregnancy tests, educational classes on pregnancy, newborn care, parenting, free boutique with essentials for maternity, preemie/newborn to 4T, diapers & formula. 217 W Main. Online scheduling available. www.PSICionia.org 616 755-6077 (voice/text)
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY – FOOD PANTRY Illuminate Church food pantry, 83 E Tuttle (behind Ken's Market) is open 11AM-1PM Contact info 616 522-7335.
TUESDAY – FOOD PANTRY/ CLOTHING CLOSET Ionia Seventh Day Adventist Community Service Center, 721 Elmwood Dr. (behind the church) is open the third Tuesday of the month, 9:30AM-1PM. No ID needed. Accepting slightly used clothing for those in need. 616 527-6465 for info.
TUESDAY – IMMUNIZATION
WALK-IN CLINIC 8:30-11:30AM and 12:30-3PM at the Ionia County Health Department, 175 E Adams
St. Appointments also accepted. To schedule, call 616 527-5341, select 3.
TUESDAY – MOBILE ZION FOOD
PANTRY Second Tuesday each month, beginning at 4:30PM at the Ionia Fairgrounds. Call 616 527-1910 for information.
TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, SATURDAY – THE CHRISTIAN SERVICE CENTER OF IONIA NOW OPEN Tuesdays 9AM-Noon and 1-4PM; Wednesdays 9AM-Noon and 1-3PM; Saturdays 9AM-Noon. On the corner of Depot & Washington. Phone 616 527-1530.
WEDNESDAY – IMMUNIZATION
CLINIC 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 10AM-5PM and 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month from 8:30-11:30AM and 12:303PM at the Ionia County Health Department, 175 E Adams St. To schedule, call 616 527-5341, select 3.
WEDNESDAY – COMMUNITY
DRAWERS Third Wednesday each month from 1:30-4:30PM at the Ionia First UMC, 105 E Main St. Personal care items for those in need in our community.
WEDNESDAY – ZION FOOD PANTRY First Christian Church, 130 E Washington. 2-4:30PM
WEDNESDAY – TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) A weight loss support group meets weekly on Wednesday, 6-7:30PM at Saints Peter & Paul School, Ionia, door G. First visit is free. 616 644-1858. www.tops.org
THURSDAY – IMMUNIZATION
WALK-IN CLINIC 8:30-11:30AM and 12:30-3PM at the Ionia County Health Department, 175 E Adams St. Appointments also accepted. To schedule, call 616 527-5341, select 3.
THURSDAYS – MID-MICHIGAN
WORD GATHERERS 9:30AMNoon, at Keller Williams Rivertown Hoppough. We write, share, encourage (not judge). All adult writers welcome. Info: 586-291-8877, www.facebook. com/groups/MMWordGatherers.
THURSDAY – THURSDAY DINER (Soup Kitchen) 6PM, 105 E Main St. Call 616 527-1910 for information.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 9...
The Ionia Free Fair Foundation Fund was established in 2009 with the purpose of being a funding source for capital improvements to aid in the longevity and sustainability, as well as the preservation and maintenance of the grounds and infrastructure.
Thank You to all those who have already donated in 2023.
Kirk Wolthuis & Tracy Roth
Kirk Wolthuis & Tracy Roth
Cale & Laurie Palmer
Cale & Laurie Palmer
Dan & Janet Balice
Dan & Janet Balice
Brick Street Studio
Brick Street Studio
Grand Event Rentals
Jim & Lisa McKee
Tom & Tammy Dickinson
Virgil & Connie Biggs
Ken & Cindy McKee
Jim & Lisa McKee
Trevor & Lori Tooker
Mike Donaldson & Mary Patrick
Doug & Connie Thompson
Tom & Tammy Dickinson
Dennis & Janet Arnold
Wagon Wheel
Perry & Margaret Gregory
Steve & Cathy Huntley
John & Beth Milewski
Kolar Concessions/Mike’s French Fries
Rosemary Reams
Tubergen Dairy Farm
Ronald & Sally Possehn
Aimee Scheuer
Sandra Pearson
Darrell & Chris Desgranges
Chad & Laura Listerman
Brenda Lehmkuhle
Gene Sturgeon
Hailie & Brett Patterson
Gazella’s
Bev Clark
Ken & Cindy McKee
Michigan One Community Credit Union
Ronnie & Kim Netterfield
Trevor & Lori Tooker
Doug & Amanda Powell
Darin Elliott
Doug & Connie Thompson
Rebecca Usher
Pete & Lisa Sanford
Michigan One Community Credit Union
Dennis & Janet Arnold
Ronnie & Kim Netterfield
Perry & Margaret Gregory
John & Beth Milewski
Doug & Amanda Powell
Rosemary Reams
Darin Elliott
Ronald & Sallie Possehn
Rebecca Usher
Sandra Pearson
Pete & Lisa Sanford
Bev Clark
Kurt & Linda Beyer
Mark Purkey
Kevin & Diane Grummet
Greg Cook Builders
Kurt & Linda Beyer
Wolbers Pools & Landscaping
Ben & Sarah Weller
Mark Purkey
Toni Ann Buys
Kevin & Diane Grummet
Elaine Caswell
Ron Flinn
Excel Electric, Inc
Collin Palmer
Dave & Gwen O’Mara
Ron Flinn
Tom & Jani Millard
Jason & Tami Reams
Greg & Nancy Patera
Bob & Connie Scheurer
Jean Beyer
Ryan & Amy Gregory
Kurt & Jackie Hartman
Dick & Barb Mackowiak
Tim & Jane Hemenway
S+K Printing
Cops Day Committee
Please consider joining our 2023 campaign of donating $100 a year for the next ten years to help us reach our $1,000,000.00 goal for our endowment fund.
Collin Palmer
Tom & Jani Millard
Jason & Tami Reams
Jean Beyer
Kurt & Jackie Hartman
$199,905 pledged in 2023 from local donors!
Tim & Jane Hemenway
Chuck & Gail Kanouse
In memory of Larry Listerman
In memory of Lionel Haskins
In memory of Bill & Fran Carr
Dustin Smith
Please Contact Ken McKee
Jose Hernandez-Martinez
Derrick & Kelsey Larsen
Michael Foster
1. Counterbalancing debt
2. In slow tempo
3. Glamorous city
4. Japanese lute
5. Makes law
6. Informative book
7. Animal’s body part
9. American playwright
10. Blood poisoning
12. Angels
14. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.)
15. Written account
17. Unwelcome pest
19. Saddle horses
20. Type of gibbon
23. Delta is one
24. NE Massachusetts cape
25. Soup cracker
26. Yes vote
27. Muddy ground
28. Physics apparatus (abbr.)
29. Type of drug
30. German city
31. Animal disease
32. Martini ingredients
33. Get away
34. Spanish municipality
36. Thrust a knife into
THURSDAY – AL-ANON MEET-
INGS 7PM, Now on Zoom! Call Sandi at 616 255-3751 or Joy at 616 901-7779 for more info.
SATURDAY – BREAKFAST BUFFET
Second Saturday of each month, 8-10AM at St. John's Lutheran School, 617 N Jefferson St. – LAKE ODESSA –
JANUARY 4 – YOGA WITH LINDA KIMMEL 9:08AM at the Lake Odessa Community Library. Beginners welcome! Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes.
JANUARY 9 – WIGGLES & GIGGLES 10:30AM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Story time fun for 6mo.-4 years. Thirty minutes of movement, stories, and interactive play.
JANUARY 9 – TEEN GAME CLUB
5-7PM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Ages 11-17.
JANUARY 11 – YOGA WITH LINDA KIMMEL 9:08AM at the Lake Odessa Community Library. Beginners welcome! Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes.
JANUARY 16 – WIGGLES & GIGGLES 10:30AM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Story time fun for 6mo.-4 years. Thirty minutes of movement, stories, and interactive play.
JANUARY 16 – HOME-BASED EDUCATION PROGRAM 1PM at the Lake Odessa Community Library. All students welcome. Monthly registration is appreciated.
JANUARY 16 – TEEN GAME CLUB 5-7PM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Ages 11-17.
JANUARY 18 – YOGA WITH LINDA KIMMEL 9:08AM at the Lake Odessa Community Library. Beginners welcome! Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes.
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We are presently accepting collections and consignments of antique, modern, and collectible firearms for this upcoming auction. Stanton’s offer free pickups of collections throughout Michigan, adjoining states and around the country. Whether you have one piece or an entire collection, we would like to speak with you regarding our upcoming event.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11TH AT 9:30AM • COINS SELL AT 2:00PM
Now accepting additional quality antiques and collectibles to round out this auction which already includes antique furniture, stack bookcases, a large collection of banks, a huge collection of jewelry (sterling, costume) including many sought after makers (an estimated 1,000 pieces to be sold). Fountain pens, watches, compacts, match safes, paperweights, 50 hat pins and holders, clocks, pottery, glassware, china, and more. Lionel trains and collectibles. There is also from the 2nd sale of the Menck Collection a huge group of cast iron, tools, axes, plus the collection of coins, stamps, silvereagles, and related items. See the photographs – this will be a large sale. A 10% buyer’s premium will be charged on all items sold.
Selling Real Estates and All Types of Property, at Auction, Anywhere!
ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE
JANUARY 21 – STEM WITH MR. MIKE 3:30-5PM at the Lake Odessa Community Library. Ages 11-17.
JANUARY 23 – WIGGLES & GIGGLES 10:30AM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Story time fun for 6mo.-4 years. Thirty minutes of movement, stories, and interactive play.
JANUARY 23 – TEEN GAME CLUB 5-7PM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Ages 11-17.
JANUARY 25 – YOGA WITH LINDA KIMMEL 9:08AM at the Lake Odessa Community Library.
Beginners welcome! Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes.
JANUARY 30 – WIGGLES & GIGGLES 10:30AM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Story time fun for 6mo.-4 years. Thirty minutes of movement, stories, and interactive play.
JANUARY 30 – TEEN GAME CLUB 5-7PM, Lake Odessa Community Library. Ages 11-17.
MONDAY – BINGO 1st & 3rd
Mondays. Games start at 6PM, VFW Post, 3600 W Tupper Lake Rd. Doors open at 4:30. Questions:
616 374-7075.
MONDAY & THURSDAY – AA MEETING 7PM at St. Edwards Church, W M-50 Hwy. Info: call Robert at 616 902-9001.
TUESDAY – BABY QUILTS FOR THE BABIES at the Spectrum Pennock Hospital Nursery. The First Congregational Church of Lake Odessa, 767 Fourth Ave, the first Tuesday of each month at 11am. Info: call Judy Graham at (616) 374-8753.
THURSDAY – AREA ALANON MEETING 10-11AM at the Lakewood United Methodist Church, 10265 Brown Rd (M-50). We’re great listeners; everything said at our meetings is held in confidence; we can help you regain your serenity! Call 616 575-8000 for information.
SUNDAY – OLD TIME COUNTRY
MUSIC SHOWS 3PM, Bob’s Barn Jamborees, 1417 Johnson St. Open Mic at 4:30PM. Always free admission. Contact bobwarner40@gmail.com.
– LYONS/MUIR –– PORTLAND –JANUARY 5 – BREAKFAST BUFFET
8-11:30AM at VFW Post 4090, 1324 E Bridge St. All you can eat. Public welcome.
MONDAY – PORTLAND COMMUNITY FOOD BANK
Portland United Methodist Church, 310 E Bridge St. Open 9AM-Noon. All of Portland School District eligible.
MONDAY – DALE E. HYLAND AMERICAN LEGION POST 129 meets the second Monday of each
month at 7PM at the Portland VFW on 1324 E Bridge St.
WEDNESDAY – AREA ALANON MEETING 10-11AM at the First Congregational Church, 421 E Bridge St in the Fellowship Hall. We’re great listeners; everything said at our meetings is held in confidence; we can help you regain your serenity! Call 616 575-8000 for information.
THURSDAY – PORTLAND
COMMUNITY FOOD BANK
Portland United Methodist Church, 310 E Bridge St. Open every Thursday 4-6PM. All of Portland School District eligible.
THURSDAY – TOPS (TAKE OFF
POUNDS SENSIBLY) A non-profit weight loss support group meets weekly, 6-7:30PM at the Portland District Library. Call 517 647-2025.
Local libraries are invaluable resources for residents, including students and their families. The value of libraries has been recognized for far longer than many may realize. The Franklin Public Library, opened in 1778 in Franklin, Massachusetts, is considered the first lending library in the United States. Since then, libraries have become integral components of communities across the nation and even the globe. It’s easy to overlook a local library, but residents who resolve to make the most of these venerable institutions can do so in the following ways.
– SARANAC –
MONDAY – BOSTON SARANAC HISTORICALSOCIETYMEETINGS Regular monthly meetings are at 7PM the 3rd Monday of each month.
TUESDAY – SARANAC COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION & SARANAC AREA WOMENS CLUB The third Tuesday of each month at the Greenridge office at 7PM.
THURSDAY – SAMS (SARANAC AREA MUSICIANS AND SINGERS) PRACTICE in the Saranac High School band room. Choir is from 6-7PM and band is from 7-8PM. Anyone welcome. For more information call Karen at 616-902-7237.
• Get or renew your library card. The first step to making the most of a local library is to sign up for or renew your library card. Each member of the family, including children, can get their own card, which affords access to books on site and often additional texts and offerings the library can request from other branches.
streaming services. Libraries also offer services to adults, including seniors, and children that can range from tax preparation tips to passport application assistance to craft projects for youngsters.
• Acquaint yourself with all the offerings at your local library. Books may be the first thing people think of when pondering local libraries, and modern branches still maintain extensive catalogs of books spanning the genres. But libraries also offer more than books. Film fans may be surprised to learn libraries typically have extensive catalogs of films that can be borrowed on DVD, and some even allow movies to be streamed through library-affiliated
• Utilize the research capabilities of local libraries. Card members have access to a wealth of resources at their local libraries, and that includes research databases like JSTOR that might require paid subscriptions if users try to access them on their own. These databases can help individuals grow their knowledge about the world they live in and prove invaluable to students young and old who are conducting research for school projects.
• Open doors to new career oppor-
tunities. Many libraries offer career counseling services free of charge. These can be particularly useful to prospective small business owners, recent graduates looking to get a foot in the door in their chosen field, and even mid- and late-career professionals who want a change but aren’t sure where to begin.
• Grow your social network. Not all social networks are grown online. Community-based events and programs sponsored by and hosted at local libraries can be great places to meet neighbors with similar interests. Local libraries are more than just places to borrow a book. Residents can utilize an array of services to make the most of their local libraries. TF252633
The term “comfort food” can be used in reference to a host of dishes. Some see Mom’s homecooking as the ultimate comfort food, while others may insist hearty dishes that fill the belly are the only true comfort foods.
Regardless of one’s definition of comfort food, one characteristic many might agree about is that foods must provide more than mere sustenance to qualify for entry into this wide-ranging category. Beef stew certainly fits that criteria, as many feel nothing is more comforting on a cold winter day than a warm bowl of slow-cooked stew. As winter settles in, those looking for some slow-cooked comfort can try this recipe for “Crockpot Beef Stew With Potatoes and Peas” from Lines+Angles.
CROCKPOT BEEF STEW WITH POTATOES AND PEAS
Makes 6 servings
2 pounds boneless stew beef
1 tsp coarse salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 TBSP olive oil
1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped
2 celery ribs, rinsed, trimmed and sliced
2 cloves of garlic, peeled and pressed
2 cups baby carrots, sliced
6 small new potatoes, rinsed & cut into bite-sized pieces
6 oz tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
2 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
1 TBSP dried parsley
2 cups frozen peas
1. Rinse the beef under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, cut the beef into generous bite-size pieces.
2. Combine the salt, pepper and flour. Place the cubed beef in a large resealable plastic storage bag. Add the seasoned flour and shake to thoroughly coat the beef with flour.
3. Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the flour-coated beef and brown on all sides.
4. Place browned beef in the crock pot. Add onions, celery, garlic, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.
5. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 to 7 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas, cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Ladle stew into individual serving bowls and serve.
Tip: Cooking time may vary depending on age and size of crockpot.
Single-stage Snow Blower by Simplicity... the compact single-stage snowblower is the smallest, most affordable Option for homeowners with a smaller driveway who live in areas with light snowfall. These snow blowers are equipped with a Briggs & Stratton Snow Series™ Engine, push button electric start (most models) and an auger-propelled drive system, which makes the snow thrower reliable and easy-to-use. As the single-stage snowthrower is propelled forward the auger clears cleanly down to the ground.
Two-stage snowblowers for those facing heavy-duty snow and winter’s most substantial storms. All two-stage, or dual-stage, snowblowers feature a powerful Briggs & Stratton® Engine designed for harsh winter conditions, dual trigger steering and Free Hand™ Control to combine ease-of-use with the snow removal robustness of a professional-grade snow thrower. Twostage snow blowers will not clean down to the ground like a single-stage snow blower, however this makes two-stage snowblowers an ideal choice for those with gravel driveways.
