August issue of Up North Voice

August 2020

Free

Eagle Voice B-1 Football and COVID B-2 Laughing Buck B-6

IN THIS ISSUE: Out and About A 2-3 Kittle Road Shopping Page A-6 Gypsy Moth infestation A-11

Strengthening the communities of Northeast Michigan

Centershot Ministries held its annual youth archery event at Bambi Lake July 24-25. About 100 people turned out for the competition.

Inset: Lindsey Evans ~ Photos by Tracy Constance

Vol. 11, Issue 8

Voice

Up North

Read us online at UpNorthVoice.com!

Out & About This Out and About Calendar is correct to the best of our ability, however during this time of social distancing please always check and make sure that the event is still going ahead and is not canceled or postponed. To submit a calendar item email warren@UpNorthVoice.com

ALCONA COUNTY

Recurring First and Third Thursday each month- Alcona County Veterans Coffee and Donuts. 9am at the Westminster Presbyterian Church.

201 N 2nd St. Harrisville ARA Farm Market - Every Saturday (May-Oct) 9am-12:30pm ARA Site on Barlow Road in Lincoln. Shop for local produce, meats and products. Contact Billie Thompson 989-724-5077 State Park Programs - The Explorer Guide Program offers fun and entertaining talks, hikes, and other outdoor learning experiences.

Programs vary from hiking out trails, listening for certain birds, or looking for rare plants. Events are free, but

a current Recreation Passport is required to enter the park. Contact Eric Ostrander – 989-724-5126 Recycle Alcona, Inc. - 2nd Saturday of each month 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lincoln ARA Site. Household type recycling paper, tin, glass, cardboard, plastic (1-7). Contact Bill Thompson 989-724-5077

CRAWFORD COUNTY

August 8-22 -GREAT NORTHERN ART EXPLOSION 2020 Artists will compete for $8,000 in cash prizes in the 2nd annual Great Northern Art Explosion, a multi-day public and juried art contest hosted by AuSable Artisan Village in partnership with Kirtland Community College. THIS EVENT IS POSTPONED- THE NEW DATES ARE SEPT. 4-20 with an entry deadline of August 8.

21-22- Civil War Reenactment at Wellington Farms 9am-5pm. A truly amazing historical event. Stroll through the camp of a Michigan Regiment to see what life was like for the soldiers on the front lines of

the Civil War. Watch as Union and Confederate soldiers engage in battle.

Observe the Michigan Artillery in action as they fire their cannons.

28- Grayling Chamber Golf Outing at the Fox Run Country Club.

Registration 8 a.m. Shotgun start 9 a.m. 4-person team scramble must be registered by August 17th. Men’s/ Mixed Team Division & Women’s Division $300 per foursome ($75 per individual) Includes 18 holes of golf with cart, meal served during event, entry into most tee contests, and goody bag.

Recurring Free fly tying Saturday9:00am-1:00pm each Saturday at Gates AuSable Lodge 471 Stephan Bridge Road. Our goal is to help you learn to tie what you want to tie.

Free chili and a warm fire. We have limited space, first come first served.

Grayling Sportsman's Club hosts Open Skeet and Trap every Sunday and Wednesday (excluding holidays) at 11:00 am. At 6990 Old Lake Road Grayling Grayling Sportsman's Club hosts Pistol Shooting every Tuesday (excluding holidays) at 1:00 p.m. at Grayling Sportsman’s Club, 6990 Old Lake Road Grayling.

AuSable Valley Animal Shelter Pet Food Pantry 10 a.m. To noon.

AuSable Valley Animal Shelter, 5786 Fairground Lane Grayling. Dry dog and cat food is available at the shelter barn on Wednesdays. Registration is required. For more information call 989-348-4117 Monday – Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

IOSCO COUNTY

October The East Tawas Holy Family Council of Catholic Women annual Christmas bazaar. scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2020, has been

CANCELLED for this year. Blinda Baker, Bazaar Chair 989 387-0742 Recurring Fourth Thursday ( Oct.- April) Iosco County Veterans Coffee Hour 9:30-10:30am American Legion Post 211, 900 E. Lincoln St. East Tawas

MONTMORENCY COUNTY

Recurring First Tuesday of each monthVeterans Coffee Hour at 9am Atlanta VFW Hall Music at the Mill– Brush Creek Mill, Every third Friday of the month year round. Open “mic.”

Sign-up to play or sing. Music starts at 7:00. Concession stand open. Free admission.

Hillman Area Historical and Genealogy Society – Third Thursdays at 1pm Brush Creek Mill.

OGEMAW COUNTY

Recurring 4-West Branch Creative Arts Association 7:00pm 124 N. Fourth Street First Tuesday every month at 7 pm For information call Linda 989709-0928 5- Wednesday with Walleye 6-9pm a not so open mic night every Wednesday at The Highway Brewing Co with Dan “Walleye” Smith and guests! Free admittance.

▪ See Out & About on page 3

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

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

It is available at newsstands or annually for $40.

Stories, advertisements and photos are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher.

UpNorthVoice.com is updated daily with breaking news and photos.

989-275-1170

Page 2 August 2020

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Out & About Continued from page 2

Mondays-Charity Bike Nights 6pm-8pm Iron Bandogs Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club presents Ogemaw County Charity Bike Nights All generated proceeds go to Ogemaw County Charity Foundations. Door prizes and 50/50 raffles.

Tuesdays- Healthy Relationships Group offered by the Riverhouse Shelter. All women are welcome.

3-4:30pm at Michigan Works.

Saturday's - 8AM-2PM in downtown West Branch, MI on S. 3rd St. Discover locally grown fresh produce & a wide variety of other treasures.

OSCODA COUNTY

August 1- Biblical Chili at 1782 N Abbe Rd, Fairview, MI 2-7pm Come join us as we celebrate our first full year of podcasting! Join us for food, fun, and conversation. Biblical Chili, a spot where 4 imperfect guys discuss the stories in the Bible and how they manifest in our lives, and we hope to hear from you to let us know how it is present in yours as well. Let's learn from each other.

Recurring 3rd Tuesday each month- Oscoda County Veterans Coffee and Donuts 9am at Ellie's 12 Tables in Mio.

OTSEGO

Recurring First Wednesday each monthOtsego County Veterans Coffee Hour. 9am at the Gaylord Regional Airport Second Wednesday- Gaylord Bowling Center Veterans Lunch 11:30am-1pm Third Wednesday- Gaylord Elks Veterans Lunch. 12pm

ROSCOMMON COUNTY

August 3- The Northern Center Blood Drive 10am-2pm at The Northern Center 7784 Stone School Rd, Houghton Lake 5- Alan Turner and the Steel Horse Band. Concerts are at 7:00pm on CRAF Center lawn at the gazebo and inside for inclement weather.

Refreshments are available and all concerts are FREE to the public.

15- Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakes Annual Golf Outing.

4 person scramble sign up at 9am and Tee off at 10am. $50 per person includes 18 holes with cart, lunch and prizes. White Deer Country Club in Prudenville. Contact Pam Kincaid at 989-422-5111.

15- Jeep Night returns to Jack's Place of Roscommon from 5pm until 8pm All Jeeps, Trucks, SXS, toys are welcome. See Sean to enter name into raffles that will be going on during the event. T-Shirts, Oil Changes, and other giveaways will be handed out. Corn-hole and beach volleyball will be available to play. Best Jeep of the event will be announced as well!

17- VFW Post 4159 Blood Drive for the American Red Cross. 12 noon until 5:45pm Recurring 1st Thursday of each month.

Roscommon County Veterans Coffee Hour: 9am - 10am Honoring the service of our military veterans.

Blodgett Airport Houghton Lake 2nd Sunday of each month. VFW Country Breakfast 8 a.m. - 12 noon.

VFW Post 4159, located across from the Roscommon Post Office.

Thursdays- Gerrish Township Marina Farmer/Craft Market 1-6pm at 103 Mill Rd in Roscommon Vendors welcome please call 989821-9313 ext.229 Saturdays- Village of Roscommon Farmers Market 10am-2pm at 211 North Main Street.

At the AuSable River Center.

The Roscommon Area Historical Society (RAHS) meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Gallimore Boarding House, 404 Lake St., Roscommon. Visitors always welcome. Dues are $20 a year. The RAHS house and museum is open Memorial Day through Sept. from noon until 4. Admission is free.

Questions call Sharon Boushelle 989387-2489

BECKY'S BEST SEWING HONORED – Becky Newcombe of Becky’s Best Sewing was honored by the Roscommon Township board for her efforts during the initial Covid outbreak when she produced 4,000 kits and masks for first responders and essential workers.

For advertising information call: 989-275-1170 UpNorthVoice.com

August 2020 Page 3

Voice Staff Mark Constance Publisher

mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com

Tracy Constance Marketing

tracy@UpNorthVoice.com

Lindy Peterson Reporter

lindythemermaid@yahoo. com

Jim Smith Reporter

jackpinetech@i2k.net

Wayne and Rose Mary Nelson at the Grayling Family Fare turning in cans they collected for the American Cancer Society Warren Stutesman Reporter warren@upnorthvoice.com

William Broadnax Distribution Manager williambroadnax2015@ gmail.com

Find us on the web: UpNorthVoice.com and on Twitter: UpNorthVoice1

Northern Lights

To the editor Due to a decline in participation in the Relay for Life program and the Covid-19 virus, passionate volunteers from Crawford and Roscommon County made the decision to try something new in 2020.

The “Northern Lights of Hope Project” has stepped up with plans to host several independent events throughout the year to celebrate lives, remember lives and to fight back in the name of cancer patients everywhere.

With the communities help and because there is not any relay in Crawford or Roscommon County, teams such as “Families Against Cancer” decided to collect cans again

because the American Cancer Society is so down on donations because of Covid-19 they need all the help they can get, also because of all the patients who have cancer and all the new cases, they still need donations for program's to help them and for new technology and research and cures.

There are many more survivors then there used to be, but we still have a long way to go. If you can help in any way contact Rose Mary Nelson or Wayne Nelson 989-3482985.

Thank you.

Rose Mary & Wayne Nelson American Cancer Society Supporters

For advertising information call: 989-275-1170

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

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

Letters are the individual opinion of the author and do not reflect the opinions of the staff,

advertisers or contributors to the Voice.

The Voice reserves the right to accept or reject any letter.

To submit a letter email it to: mconstance@upnorthvoice.com, mail to P.O. Box 113, Roscommon, MI 48653, or stop by the office at 709 Lake Street in Roscommon.

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August heat; Leave your glass containers at home Toad's Stool

By Warren Stutesman Hello, my friends and welcome to August. As August is known to be a hot month, I am hoping that it does not try to beat out July.

Fishing seems to be good this year, at least for the people I have talked with. My cousins Dan and Deb Ellis have spent two weeks camped on the west side of Fletchers Floodwaters and caught several large bass and many other species.

My sons Zebulon, Caleb and Nathanael, and Caleb's wife Rose, went to Fletchers also, but they like to fish by the dam. They were doing very well catching lots of fish and enjoying a rare day together when Nathan slipped on a rock in the river.

He landed with his hand under water and on a broken bottle cutting his hand which then needed stitches. So after a trip to the Alpena Emergency they called it a day.

My “thanks” go to the individual that made the end of this day possible. Thanks for bringing glass into a setting where if breakage occurs you cannot clean it up. Maybe a can or plastic bottle would have been a better choice.

Send your photos, announcements and club events to: mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com

Most everyone knows of my love of birds. Feeding them is one of my most enjoyable privileges of life.

Well we have had an influx of Red Squirrels this year. I live trap them to relocate but they don't seem to want to cooperate, not wanting to enter the trap. In an effort to get them to go into the trap I let all my feeders go empty, so what do you think the little beggars did? They jumped from the table to the window ledge and stared at me wanting more feed.

You just have to love God’s creatures, no matter how damaging they may be to our houses you have to respect an animal that displays not only that much intelligence but such temerity also.

I have had a Scarlet Tanager visit each year in the spring and then be gone. However, this summer it has been visiting our waterfall birdbath quite regular. Getting rid of the pines and letting the poplars grow seems to be paying off.

A sad note is that the Oak wilt has taken six of our trees since last fall. It’s a good thing that we planted several bushes this spring. Even better is that the bushes are doing well, and I was worried because of our poor sandy soil.

I also seem to be winning the war against the Spotted Knapweed we had everywhere. Lots of pulling and mowing has had a good effect.

As we part once more, I would ask that if you have caught a fish, found some mushrooms or any other item you wish to share please give me a call or email me.

Please remember to help keep our woods and waters clean.

- You can reach Warren “Toad” Stutesman at 989-745-2896 or warren@upnorthvoice.com.

DUCK DROP – Troy Daniels of Roscommon won first prize of $1,000 in the Roscommon Rotary Great AuSable River Duck Race on July 11. Also pictured are volunteers who put the project together.

COFFEE BY STEPH recently opened inside the AuSable Artisan Village at 223 Michigan Avenue in Grayling. Coffee By Steph is a craft coffee roastery and specialty coffee shop offering the “best coffee in Grayling.”

Owner Stephanie Mora also offers cold brew on tap, fruit smoothies, hot chocolate and treats. The store is open Wednesday-Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. For menu information call 989-459-1888.

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August 2020 Page 5

Mio’s Kittle Road Area Shopping A sample of Oscoda County businesses that are serving the needs of the county and beyond

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The Bakery - Corner of Camp Ten Rd. & Cherry Creek Rd., 22 N. Camp Ten Rd., Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat. 9am - 5pm, (989) 826-6294.

9.

Shady Lane Footwear & Oak Hill Furniture, footwear for the entire family and Handcrafted Solid Wood Furniture. - Just off M 33 to 68 E. Kneeland Road. (989) 848-8265

2.

Country Corners Bulk Food - 3 miles north of Mio to Kittle Rd., and west 2½ miles. 1284 W. Kittle Rd. (989) 826-6063.

10. North Star Storage Barns - 2¾ miles north of Mio on M-33. 398 N. Mt. Tom Rd. (989) 826-1000.

3.

Natures Beauty Rustic Furniture, True beauty in wood. - 4 miles north of Mio then 1¾ miles east on Kneeland Rd. 860 E. Kneeland Rd. (989) 848-2806.

11. Northern Power Sports - 4 miles north of Mio. 30 E. Kneeland Rd. (989) 826-3388.

4.

Country Feed Supply - 3 miles north of Mio and ¾ mile west on Kittle Rd. (989) 826-2305 5.

Highland Building Center - 3 miles north of Mio, East on Kittle Rd. 1½ miles. 693 E. Kittle Road.

(989) 848-8000 6.

The Farm Kitchen - Corner of M 33 & Kittle Rd, 50 W. Kittle Rd. Fresh baked goods and goodies with a deli that can make your favorite sandwich, dairy products and grass feed meat.

(989) 826-8666.

7.

Maple Ridge Metal - 3 miles north of Mio, west 1 mile on Kittle Rd., then ½ miles north on Gerber Rd. 748 N. Gerber Rd. (989) 826-5752

12. Echo Ridge Fabrics, Fabrics, notions, Amish clothing (infant to adult), toys, games, arts/ craft supplies and home decor. - 3 miles north of Mio and 2 miles west on Kittle Rd., north 3 miles on Galbraith Rd. 1734 N. Galbraith Rd. (989) 826-1913 13. Sensenig’s Repair - 3 miles north of Mio, east on Kittle Rd 1 miles. 432 E. Kittle Rd. (989) 848-8346 14 Sweet Success Sugarbush - 3 miles north of Mio and 2 miles west on Kittle Rd. North 2 miles on Galbraith Rd. 1442 N. Galbraith Rd. (989) 826-3160 15. The Pioneer Store - On M‑33/72, 2¾ miles north of Mio. 432 N. Mt. Tom Rd. (989) 826-3580

8.

Amy's Confection Connection - Corner of M 33 & Mt. Tom Rd., Thursday thru Tuesday, Hand Dipped Ice Cream and Home of the AuSable Gobble. (989) 390-0518.

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Reconnected at Last: Huron Pines restores Shingle Mill Site on East Branch Black River ATLANTA – Dodging raindrops, a yellow- and black-striped dragonfly hovered and dipped her tail into the flowing water again and again, each time depositing her eggs into fine gravel at the river’s edge. Just feet away, a massive Montmorency County Road Commission grader rumbled slowly across the newly rebuilt road crossing, its scraper blade gingerly smoothing the last bit of earth into place. Unfazed, the dragonfly went about her work — dodge, dip, repeat — before she zoomed off somewhere downstream.

This is the point where a typical story would talk about the return of nature as men and their machines retreat but, the fact is, nature never left the Shingle Mill crossing in the first place. Those construction workers talk excitedly about big trout they’ve spotted over the course of the 6-week river restoration project.

A week into the excavation, as a temporary channel diverted the river

around the job site, workers marveled at a native lamprey they plucked from a hole and released unharmed into the stream. It’s more like nature was eagerly waiting outside a concert hall for the doors to open and they finally have.

At certain times of the year, the old Shingle Mill crossing was very much like a locked door to fish and other river creatures. Spring runoff rushing through the 9-foot-wide pipe culvert was too strong for trout to swim against, cutting off access to the upstream side of County Road 622. Even more damaging was the sediment washing into the East Branch whenever floodwaters overtopped the dirt road during heavy rains and thaws. That sediment buried crucial spawning gravel where trout and other river creatures, including dragonflies, lay their eggs.

These problems were finally resolved in June with the installation of a 27-foot bottomless arch culvert

A pipe culvert that obstructed the East Branch Black River for decades is gone and with it the persistent problems it caused with erosion, flooding and fish passage. In its place, a shiny aluminum arch ushers wild brook trout to 20 miles of habitat upstream of County Road 622 — vital spawning and nursery grounds supporting the river’s famed fishery.

that lets the river pass naturally through and grants brook trout, a native and prized game fish, unfettered access to upstream habitat.

Additional project partners included the Montmorency County Road Commission, Huron Engineering and Surveying, Inc., MacArthur Construction and the Upper Black River Council.

Jill Scarzo is Program Assistant for Huron Pines, where she’s worked since 1997. She said a project of this scale and with this many partners

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falls perfectly within the conservation nonprofit’s expertise.

“The success of a project 20 years in the making is a combination of planning and creativity on the part of Huron Pines,” Scarzo said. “A foundation may desire to enhance a particular watershed, one grant might fund projects in a particular fishery while another funds actions with a specific result.

▪ See the complete story and more photos at UpNorthVoice.com.

August 2020 Page 7

Pictured in front is Mark Rais, Wes Dean, Bella (dog), Jim Montagne, Anna Sylvester, Joyce Haxton, Bob Michela, (back) Contractor Brian Donnenwerth, Mike Doyle, Vince Caruso, Mike Kay and Bill Dean. Not pictured are Theresa Ekdom, Case DeYoung, Doug Fairbanks and Scott Johnston.

Fencing replaced on Manistee GRAYLING - The Upper Manistee River Association (UMRA) undertook a project intended to ensure the best use of public land and water on June 30, 2020, on the bank of the Upper Manistee River’s Deward access site in Crawford County.

Bill Dean, treasurer of UMRA, along with the cooperation of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MI-DNR) and 13 other volunteers, spearheaded the project.

A 30+ year-old cedar fence designed to encourage anglers, paddlers, and sightseers to use the stairway access to the river, helping to prevent stream-bank erosion, was replaced.

Brian Donnenwerth, from Saginaw Valley Fence Co. was contracted for this project and did an outstanding job.

“Not one nail was used as the rails to this custom cedar fence were so tightly fitted together,” volunteer Bob

Michela said. Volunteers helped to remove the old split rails and posts and install the new fence and stair rail. Funding for the project came from UMRA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the Manistee River system.

The completion of this project offers the public safe access to enjoy and experience the importance and beauty of Michigan’s public lands and waterways.

UMRA’s next scheduled project, held in conjunction with the Traverse Area Paddling Club, will be a river clean up project on the Upper Manistee. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in the clean up on Sept.

19.

Please contact UMRA at https:// www.facebook.com/UMRASSOC/ for more information and to sign up to help.

Find us on the web: UpNorthVoice.com and on Twitter: UpNorthVoice1 Page 8 August 2020

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Fall sports on schedule

By Greg Gielczyk Right now, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is planning on fall sports as usual, or as close to usual as it can get amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

But, during her press latest press conference, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she was very interested in the possibility of moving the spring sports, which have the least physical contact, to the fall and switching football, which has considerable physical contact, to the spring.

She's leaving it up to the MHSAA to come up with a game plan for sports.

"We're really thankful that the governor has given us the opportunity to write the policy on this," said Geoff Kimmerly, media and content coordinator for the MHSAA in a phone interview.

"The MHSAA is going to be the one that puts this together, and everything that we've done since March has been in coordination with her guidelines, her office and the state health department.

"Whatever we do going forward, I'm sure will be exactly the same. There's a great channel of communication there, so we're going to work with the governor's office, but we're going to be writing the policy on this."

Kimmerly says that determination of a season flip will be made in about three weeks. If the state is not where it needs to be in the governor's Michigan Safe Start Plan, he says that switch is a very real possibility.

"I would say we are going to have four or five contingency plans," Kimmerly said by phone. "That (one) will be right there at the top. We're really needing the entire state to be in Phase 5 with her game plan.

"The rest of us down here are still in Phase 4. It is realistic, I think, to talk about it. We have talked to a lot of people who do not want to make

the season flip like that, but if it's the other option of not playing anything at all, I think that will win out. We have a ways to go, though."

Semi-pro football teams have started their seasons in Traverse City and Petoskey, with this part of the state in Phase 5. But teams in parts of the state still in Phase 4 can throw passes, but defenses are not permitted to cover the receivers. Full contact is forbidden.

Kimmerly says the MHSAA's desire is to afford everyone the opportunity to do as much as possible as soon as possible under the circumstances, and just asks that everyone continue to work with the guidelines.

Social distancing is extremely difficult in football, soccer and lacrosse.

Girls volleyball would be tough as well since it is an indoor sport with crowds gathered in a confined space. Same with girls swimming and diving in the Lower Peninsula.

It's a sport by sport process, Kimmerly added.

"Our directors are working on them (precautions)," he said.

"Nationally, the national federation has created documents sport by sport. I saw the football one with suggestions like extending the team boxes to the 10-yard line, and things as detailed as how frequently has the person who has the football clean them.

"We're going to think this through to the finest detail. But, there is some degree of contact when you play these sports that just can't be eliminated. It's the option of not playing at all."

Phase 5 allows for a larger number of fans to be in attendance, but Kimmerly admitted there is a very real possibility that full crowds will not be permitted for any sport this fall, indoors or outside.

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August 2020 Page 9

Obituaries & Death Notices

Funerals handled by Wagner and Walsh Funeral Home of Roscommon

Roscommon, Michigan, died on March 29th, 2020, at home in the presence and comfort of her family.

Lucille Josephine Seitz Lucille Josephine Seitz, (nee Sellinger), age 91, of Ft. Pierce, Florida and Higgins Lake, Michigan, died peacefully on Thursday, June 25, 2020, at The Brook in Roscommon (which is still pridefully Covid free), in the presence and comfort of her family. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Lucy’s name to March of Dimes. Please share a memory or a message online at wagnerfunerals.com.

Edward John Furstenau Edward John Furstenau, Jr., age 87, of Roscommon, died on Saturday, July 18, 2020, in Grayling, Michigan.

The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Ed’s name to the Roscommon Rotary Club.

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Patricia Theresa Tundo Patricia Theresa Tundo, age 86 of Clinton Township and Roscommon, Michigan, died on Thursday, April 30, 2020 at the Beaumont Hospital, Troy.

Judith K. Van Orman Judith K. Van Orman, age 79, of Fairview, Michigan, passed away at her home on Thursday, July 23, 2020.

David Lewis Frye David Lewis Frye, age 56, of Boyne City, died on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 in Roscommon, Michigan.

Robert James Sensing Robert James Sensing, age 74, of Flint, formerly of Roscommon, died on Thursday, July 2, 2020 in Flint, Michigan.

Larry Jo Cam Larry Jo Camp, age 78, of St. Helen, died on Thursday, July 2, 2020 in Bay City. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Larry’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Helen Fay Gielincki With profound sadness we announce the passing of Helen Fay Gielincki. She was in her ninetyseventh year. Our devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to all passed peacefully in Jacksonville, Florida on July 4, 2020.

Memorial Contributions in honor of Helen may be made to Community Hospice and Palliative Care 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32257.

Jeane Carlson Jeane Carlson, 96, of

Kenneth Curtis Harrison Kenneth Curtis Harrison, 82, of Houghton Lake passed away on Thursday July 23, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Sally J. Galbraith Sally J. Galbraith (nee Hubbard), age 81 of Mio, MI, passed away at home with her husband and children on Friday July 17, 2020. Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary's Shrine Restoration Fund.

Lillian May Lefler Lillian May Lefler, age 92, of Brethren, MI, formerly of Fairview, MI, passed away Friday, July 17, 2020, at Cedar Ridge Assisted Living in Brethren. Memorial donations may be made to The Veteran's Administration, Detroit Regional Office, 477 Michigan Ave, 12th Floor, Detroit, MI 48226.

unexpectedly at her home on Thursday, July 2, 2020.

of Mio, died June, 24th in Bath, New York.

Andrew J Welser Andrew J Welser, age 85 of Lewiston, MI, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 4, 2020.

Memorial donations may be made to the Munson Hospice, St. Mary Shrine Restoration, Oscoda County Council on Aging, or the Mio Dummy Club.

Shivam Kishor Patel Shivam Kishor Patel, 28, of Grayling passed away unexpectedly June 27, 2020.

Carl T. Profrock Carl T. Profrock, age 70 of Cheboygan, formerly of Fairview, Michigan, passed away at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey on Wednesday, July 1, 2020.

Laurence Neil Ostrowski Laurence Neil Ostrowski, 79, of Grayling passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, July 8, 2020.

Memorial contributions to the Grayling Little League, PO Box 130, Grayling, MI 49738.

Pauline Ann Clark Pauline Ann Clark, 74, of Luzerne, MI, passed away Monday, July 6, at her residence.

Michael Y. Booth Michael Y. Booth, age 46 of Mio, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 27, 2020.

Eva "Eve" J. Krcmarik Eva "Eve" J. Krcmarik, age 74 of Mio, Michigan, passed away at Munson Grayling Hospital on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital or to the St. Mary Shrine Restoration Fund.

Thomas (Tom) H. Colvin Jr. Thomas (Tom) H. Colvin Jr., 78,

Sharon L. Miller Sharon L. Miller, age 58 of McKinley, Michigan, passed away

'Love Your Lake' summer of 2020 raffle ROSCOMMON – The Higgins Lake Foundation (HLF) Virtual Raffle tickets are now available!

Tickets are available by easy pay by phone with CC Or please mail a check to me made out to HLF - 103 Saginaw Ave. Roscommon, 48653.

Or pay via HLF website www. higginslake-foundation.org

Page 10 August 2020

All profits will fund the DASH board, which assists in the removal of aquatic invasive species, boat wash support and awareness, water testing, and educational programs for youth and adults.

A video of the drawing will be held on the HLF Foundation website Aug. 4.

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Marilyn Cheryl Tinker Marilyn Cheryl Tinker, 70, of Grayling, passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2020.

Paul James Thomson Paul James Thomson, 81, of Grayling, passed away peacefully at home July 18, 2020.

Gypsy moths eating oak forests

NORTHERN MICHIGAN Gypsy moth caterpillar populations are extremely high throughout the oak forests in northern Michigan.

The presence of caterpillars has been a nuisance, and many oak trees have been severely defoliated as the caterpillars continue to eat the leaves.

Population of the invasive insects have exploded across Northern Michigan. And unless there is a millage to help pay for the cost of spraying an insecticide, property owners have limited options.

What can you do?

Installing sticky bands on trees can help keep the gypsy moth caterpillars from climbing back up the trunk of a tree. On hot afternoons, gypsy moth caterpillars spin a web to lower themselves down from the tops of the trees to escape the heat.

In the evening, or the next morning, the caterpillar will attempt to climb back up the trunk of the tree to begin feeding again.

Sticky bands prevent the caterpillar’s ascent. Dozens if not hundreds of caterpillars will congregate below the sticky tape where they can easily be targeted with a soap and water spray or plucked off and collected in a bucket of soap and water. Repeat daily.

Sticky bands can be constructed using duct tape and petroleum jelly.

Simply wrap three overlapping bands of duct tape, sticky side down on the bark, around the tree. Then, take a small amount of petroleum jelly on your finger and run it across the middle band. Applying petroleum jelly directly to the bark is not recommended and could injure the tree. Similarly, applying too much petroleum jelly will cause it to melt and run down the tape and come in contact with the bark, causing injury.

It may be tempting to use a chemical insecticide on the

caterpillars. However, that is not recommended due to the many beneficial insects that could be affected. Rather, use a heavy mixture of soap and water to spray the caterpillars directly.

In addition, while young caterpillars are lethally affected by eating the bacterial insecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki, or Btk, applied to the leaves on trees, older caterpillars are not. Spraying the leaves of your trees with Btk at this stage is not effective. Rather, it should be a treatment to be considered just after caterpillar hatch next spring.

Will my tree survive?

Severely defoliated trees should be watered when we have five or more days without rain.

Watering will relieve some stress on the trees as they work to grow leaves to replace what the gypsy moth caterpillars consumed. This is especially important while the temperatures remain in the 80- to 90-degree range. To properly water a tree, use a sprinkler to distribute water to the area under the branches of the tree. Most of the fine roots grow further out from the trunk and dispersed watering allows the tree to take up more water than if a hose is left to run at the base of the tree.

Apply one inch of water every five days to each affected tree. Use a baking pan placed in range of the sprinkler to learn how long it takes to deliver one inch of water via your sprinkler. The bulletin on the MSU Gypsy Moth website titled, “Dealing with gypsy moth around your home or property” provides additional detail.

Will this happen next year?

It might, but evidence suggests that two pathogens, or diseases, that affect gypsy moth caterpillars are causing death. The virus and fungal

Late instar gypsy moth larva. Photo by Karla Salp, Washington State Dept. of Agriculture, Bugwood.org.

pathogens occur naturally, and levels have been increased to affect gypsy moth populations throughout Michigan. Be on the lookout for dead gypsy moth caterpillars that are either hanging in an upside down ‘v’ formation or are in a straight line to detect if the pathogens have affected the caterpillars on your property.

Evidence of caterpillars having died from these pathogens indicates that the local caterpillar population may be in collapse this year, leading to much lower numbers next year.

The article on the MSU Gypsy Moth website titled, “A virus and fungal disease cause gypsy moth outbreaks to collapse” provides additional detail about these pathogens.

Is there a way to predict what will happen next year?

Yes! Gypsy moth caterpillars will soon be spinning a cocoon where they will morph into flying moths. The moths do not eat, but they do mate and lay eggs. This process should be complete by mid-August in most of Michigan. Counting the eggs and calculating the “egg masses per acre” on your property will allow you to predict the numbers of caterpillars that will hatch next year.

If your property has a high number of egg masses per acre, you can begin planning next year’s plan of attack as early as September 2020.

For more information visit canr. msu.edu/ipm/invasive_species/ gypsy-moth.

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August 2020 Page 11

Foundation recognizes board members ROSCOMMON - The Said Lawrence. “I will miss the Roscommon County Community process of granting money to grant Foundation Board of Trustees recipients. The foundation strives recognized two departing board to grant funds to recipients that members for their contributions. will make the most difference in In 2011, Susan Tyer and Kathleen Roscommon County for its diverse Lawrence joined residents.” the Foundation’s “I am Board of Trustees honored to and have served have been part a total of 9 years. of a board that Both reached the continually term limit of 9 strives to give years this past so much back to June. the community.”

These two Said Tyer. “I women have will miss the been such an people the most, asset to the including the Foundation in other board more ways than Susan Tyer (right) recognized for her members and contribution to the Foundation. one. Tyer has the people that I served in several leadership have met through various roles, including Secretary, presentations, scholarships, Vice Chair, and Chair. schools, and community Lawrence has served as groups.”

Chair of the Marketing “We cannot thank them Committee and a member of enough for all the time and the Finance Committee. effort they have put into Since Tyer and Lawrence elevating the Foundation’s were both involved within Kathy Lawrence work.” said Executive the Community Foundation, Director Suzanne Luck. they took a moment to reflect on their “They will truly be missed by the time as a board member and what Foundation board and staff” they will miss the most.

If you are interested in learning “The Roscommon County more about the Foundation or serving Community Foundation has enjoyed on the Board of Trustees, contact strong growth over the past nine Suzanne Luck at 989-275-3112 or years making it possible to put more info@myrccf.org money back into the community.”

A.R.K. Receives grant in response to COVID-19

MAPLE VALLEY - The Roscommon County Community Foundation (RCCF) is pleased to announce that the Association to Rescue Kritters (A.R.K.) has received a grant of $1,000.00 for supplies and food for their current animal patients. Funding for this project was provided by the Roscommon County Community Foundation’s Urgent Needs Fund.

The purpose of this grant is to provide staff with the necessities they

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need to care for their current animal patients. Products such as masks, sanitizer, gloves, and food will help with proper social distancing when speaking to rescuers as well as disinfecting surfaces for their animals and staff.

Want to get involved? You can support the Urgent Needs Fund by sending your donation to RCCF at P.O. Box 824 Roscommon, MI 48653 or by visiting our website myrccf.org to make a donation online.

Football season could look a little different due to COVID

By Greg Gielczyk, Sports Writer GRAYLING -- With the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) expressing its determination to have a full fall sports season, every football team in Michigan applauded in appreciation.

But, there is a caveat. And it's a big one.

As thrilling as it was to learn fall sports would be held as usual, these are highly unusual times with the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 showing no signs of slowing down or even hitting a plateau.

So the MHSAA did note in its

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letter to the high schools that there (to see if anyone is running a high is the possibility the season could fever) before anyone can get into the be interrupted at any time, and it stadium. should be noted that there are 18 days "We disinfect things. That's all between the start of practice and the new and different. But, we've had first regular season game on Aug. 28. a good number of kids come out. I But, for the present anyway, high think they missed being together, and school football teams are preparing being on a routine. Personally, it was to start getting ready in case they good to see all the kids again the first reach the regular season without any night. It had been quite awhile." hiccups and begin to play for real.

Using the weight room poses Teams have been conditioning some more issues as far as cleaning since Governor Gretchen Whitmer and limited numbers, but at least the relaxed the restrictions on the kids have been able to work out and number of public gatherings to allow forge those team bonds again. for up to 150 people to Everyone is hoping all congregate. goes well and there can be Grayling's Vikings are football this fall. But, there coming off a 3-6 season, is also the realization that 2-4 in the Northern the virus could interfere Michigan Football League with those plans. If that Legends Division. It was happens, there is a very the second straight year real possibility football the Vikings had a threecould still be moved the win season.

Coach Eric Tunney spring.

But the coronavirus has "I just want the kids made getting ready for the season an to have a football season," Tunney entirely new and unique experience. said. "We'll make it work, whatever "Obviously, it's different, it's date we start. Especially the seniors. new," Vikings' head coach Eric I can't imagine them having to lose a Tunney said in a phone conversation. season. It would just devastating to "But, it's given us a chance to get a them. little creative, and maybe focus on "My fear is we start, and we get a some things we haven't been able to game or two in and then we have to (before). shut down. Nobody wants that. If the "Like speed training, and agility choice is we play in the spring and training. More of that. Obviously, we have a better chance of playing a we have a set of questions to ask full season, then I'm all for it. the kids, and take their temperatures "It's a huge decision ... it's a tough

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decision ... they're going to have to make regardless of whether we keep it in the fall or move it to the spring.

If we do move it, obviously there are more challenges there. We're going to have snow on the ground the first few weeks of practice, or the first month."

Through the month of July the Vikings, as with all the other football teams in the state, have not been permitted to hand the ball off to a player, linemen are not permitted to block each other and they can't use hand shields or any equipment.

But the coaches have been focusing on some drills that improve footwork and reactions, building the core principles instead of jumping right into blocking and tackling.

"It's challenging us as coaches, but it's making us better in getting back to some basic stuff," Tunney said. "It's easy to sit here and say 'we can't do this, we can't do this and we can't do this.'

"I told our coaches 'Let's stop thinking about what we can't do, and just focus on what we can do.' And the kids have been great.

"For the most part they're doing a great job of staying six feet apart from each other. A lot of it falls on us as coaches and players to see if we can have a season. (The) school year has its challenges, too. Busing, lunches and class rooms. I teach PE (physical education). Life is challenging."

Boating safety at the marina

By Ken Elmore, Markey Township Fire Department

Summer is in full swing and that means the boats are out there like the mosquitoes in my yard.

When most of us think of boat safety, the first things that come to mind are the life jackets and the fire extinguisher. Both are great equipment to have and to use, in fact required, but let’s look at a couple of other issues that tend to be overlooked and can impact our health and safety.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has issued some warnings on potential hazards regarding boats and marinas to look out for. The concern is that folks putting their boats in and out at the many marinas, or working on them while moored, may be in a dangerous situation and my not even be aware of it.

One of these dangers is the buildup of carbon monoxide, or CO as we know it. True, we mostly associate this hazard with homes,

garages and workplaces, but remember any fuel burning motor can produce lethal amounts of this gas if not running properly.

When you think of it, the marina is the natural place to leave the boat motor idling while we go back and forth to gather the coolers, fishing gear and the like. It’s also the place where many work on the motors to get them running better, tinkering with this or that. These scenarios can lead to CO buildup.

The advice is to provide plenty of ventilation for this equipment, remembering that CO can accumulate in the lower areas of a cabin or boat well. You are encouraged to get a CO alarm for your boat as well. The critical points here are ventilation and properly maintained engines.

Our second caution is electrical safety around water. Many marinas, or private docks for that matter, have electrical power running to

hoists, battery chargers and other items. Metal dock treads, metal poles anchoring docks, water and electricity are a strange and dangerous mix indeed.

Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can lead to electrical leakage and anyone in the water tending to their boat or swimming around the area could fall victim to electrical shock drowning. This condition, or ESD as it is known, is caused when an individual is in the water and there is electric current flowing into the water from wiring or equipment.

While a shock in the water may not initially be lethal, it can temporarily paralyze muscles that may prevent the jolted person from being able to swim on the water or swim to the dock or shore, leading to the possibility of drowning. This means that an otherwise survivable shock on dry land may be fatal if

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delivered in the water.

Never let the kids swim around the dock areas of a marina, they are not intended to be swimming holes or beaches. Teach them about these safety concerns and why they need to aware before entering the water. Above all, remember that any equipment needs to be checked frequently for condition issues before use.

While we’re at it, everyone knows the danger and how treacherous a boat fire can be. We would like therefore, to direct you to an outstanding site focusing on boats and fire safety. The fine folks at Gerrish Township Fire and EMS have put together a comprehensive information package dealing with fire safety on the water. Go to gerrishfireems.org/safety-tips/boat-fire-safety/ for a wealth of information. It’s free, it’s on the web, so take advantage and help ensure a fun filled, yet safe boating season for everyone.

Have a great time on the water!

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Toddler closet open CRAWFORD COUNTY - The Crawford County Baby to Toddler Closet will be open for curb service only for diapers, wipes and clothes on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The church is still closed.

Starting Wednesday, Aug. 5 please call number 989-745-4166 so we may take your children's size and required name, address, and phone number for our records. We will have a canopy outside and will show clothing options

International Art Show in delayed, but not canceled GRAYLING - The Great Northern Art Explosion, organized by AuSable Artisan Village in Grayling, Michigan, has chosen to delay, but not cancel, one of Michigan’s richer fine art award events with $8,000 in prize money.

The second Annual Art Explosion is an opportunity for artists to publicly showcase their best work, and to have their hand at multiple cash prizes in the process. The exhibition-contest includes three juried prizes at $1,000 each, and a $5,000 public vote grand prize sponsored by Kirtland Community College.

The show, which was originally scheduled for an Aug. 8 opening, has been pushed back to open on Sept. 4 with awards presented on Sept. 20.

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The delay will give organizers more time to recruit and train volunteers and prepare venues to host the show that meet COVID-19 safety guidelines. The reset will also push the entry deadline back to Aug. 10 at midnight, providing an opportunity for local and regional artists to register their work for a shot at $5,000.

Currently, most entries are from Michigan.

However, there are entries from coast to coast across the nation, from the state of Washington to New Jersey, and as far away as South Africa. The Great Northern Art Explosion is becoming an international fine art event taking place in Grayling, the crossroads of Northern Michigan.

Mio center happenings Oscoda County Senior News

By Merianne Tappan It’s hard to believe it is that time of year when kids go back to school.

It flew by, even though they missed half the year last year. Maybe it is because we were busy, or maybe because the world is crazy, but I sure hope the schools can operate as normal so these children can have some normality in their lives again!

Here’s what’s going on in August: • Aug. 4: Election day. Please vote yes for the Council on Aging millage! It is so desperately needed.

Remember, the council has not asked for an increase in over 8 years, and as you know, on a fixed income, everything goes up but the amount you get per month. If you have any questions or concerns about this millage proposal, I am always willing to talk! Help us help you!

• Aug. 10: The council Board will hold its monthly board meeting at the center at 1 p.m. As always, anyone with an interest is welcome to attend.

• Aug. 12: Food drop (TEFAP) at the Center from 8-11 a.m. This program is free for anyone in the county, any age.

• Aug. 18: Monthly food drop (CSFP) for seniors 60+ will be held at the fairgrounds from 10-11 a.m.

• Aug. 20: Together We Can Food Pantry will hold its food distribution from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Sometimes they get an extra truck but I usually don’t know in time for this article when those dates are, but they always ask me to put it on our sign by the road, so keep an eye on that, or you can always call the venter and we will let you know.

We are all out of Project FRESH coupons.

We now have a wonderful Foot Care lady; her name is Jordan. She we here last month for a trial run and it went well. She plans to be here at the Center the first Tuesday of the month (Aug. 4). She is willing to go to homes the last Tuesday of the month. Please call the center to make an appointment at 989-826-3025 With these outrageous temperatures we are getting this summer it is easy to get sick from heat stroke. I know I go over this every year, but it is an important topic - it could save a life!

If you plan to do any work outdoors do it in the early morning before 11 a.m. when the heat starts to get bad. If you do find yourself out during the heat of the day finding shade is key and having water always is a good idea too.

▪ Visit UpNorthVoice.com to read the complete article.

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Two gold fish are in a tank.

One looks at the other and says, “You know how to drive this thing?!”

Toddlers and the cup of tea One day my mother was out and my dad was in charge of me.

I was maybe 2 1/2 years old and had just recovered from an accident.

Someone had given me a little 'tea set' as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys.

Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news when I brought Daddy a little cup

of "tea," which was just water.

After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea, my Mom came home. My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was "just the cutest thing!"

My Mom waited, and sure enough, here I come down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy and she watched him drink it up.

Then she says, (as only a mother would know . . ...

"Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet?"

You know why you never see elephants hiding up in trees?

Because they’re really good at it.

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Cute Rabbit Joke I was in a pet store picking up some pet food for my dog when I overheard the following conversation. A cute girl peaks over the counter and politely asks the sales representative.

“I’m interested in buying a rabbit.” “Oh sure we’ve got lots of rabbits” gushed the motherly

Toddlers and the cup of tea One day my mother was out and my dad was in charge of me. I was maybe 2 1/2 years old and had just recovered from an accident.

Someone had given me a little 'tea set' as a get-well gift and it was one of my favorite toys. Daddy was in the living room engrossed in the evening news when I brought Daddy a little cup of "tea," which was just water.

After several cups of tea and lots of praise for such yummy tea,

sales representative. “Do you have any specific color in mind?

We’ve got some adorable white Bunnies down this isle.” The lady exclaimed. “Oh” said the cute girl with a wave of her hand, “I really don’t think my boa constrictor would care about what color it is!”

my Mom came home. My Dad made her wait in the living room to watch me bring him a cup of tea, because it was "just the cutest thing!"

My Mom waited, and sure enough, here I come down the hall with a cup of tea for Daddy and she watched him drink it up.

Then she says, (as only a mother would know . . ...

"Did it ever occur to you that the only place she can reach to get water is the toilet?"

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Smart Phone = Smart People?

View From the Comfy Chair

By Joel Vernier I was deep into REM, into the level below the movie "Inception," and the alarm went off on my smartphone.

As I worked my way up to consciousness, I wondered if having a smartphone made me smart?

Of course, if you have the newest smartphone and traded in your last smartphone, which was working perfectly, were you smart? Out another $1,000? If smartphones have made our society so smart, it does not appear that way to me.

When you go to a fast-food franchise and look at the pop machine (soda for those that prefer it) instead of being labeled small, medium, or large, they have pictures.

If pictures are worth a thousand words, what is the absence of words saying?

My wife will not go to a restaurant, even those following the COVID guidelines. She has risk factors and is very concerned. I have risk factors, but I love food, so I have dined in, so we have picked up a lot of carryout. The frustrating thing is that our order is wrong about 40 percent of the time. Maybe they need more pictures?

When I was growing up, we had the "Party Line" phone system. There were a few other people that used the same line. When you went to make a phone call, if another party was using it, you politely hung up the phone and tried later.

After several attempts, my mom would pick up the phone and yell at the neighbor who had tied up the line for 2 hours and yelled at them to get off so she could call her mom.

That's when the "Party" started as a World-Wide Wrestling screaming match would take place. She often used language that if I used that language, My mouth would taste soapy. In those days, there was personal accountability for your actions in my house.

I took a trip to Houston, Texas, and visited the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. While sitting in the observation room, I noticed the antique computers used to calculate landing our astronauts on the moon.

It's a good thing we had the talent observed by the movie "Hidden Figures," or the landing might have been a hard instead of a soft landing. The iPhone 6's are 32,600 times faster than the best Apollo era computers. These smartphones could handle guiding 120,000,000 Apollo spacecraft to the moon all at the same time. Current smartphones are millions of times faster than NASA's 1960'3 computers.

And yet with all of this calculating ability, most of the comments I see on Facebook do not strike me as showing the best of people's intelligence! Or, at times, any intelligence at all. It can be a challenge when you first get a smartphone. I often hear some of my technology-oriented friends stating, "I just got my new smartphone 6 months ago, and I haven't figured out how to use it.

At least when I take my naps, I can quickly know that the smartphone in my pocket could "Fly Me to the moon" and back.

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August 2020

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4th annual 'Meals–on– Wheels' car show on tap ROSCOMMON – The “Meals on wheels” car show is scheduled for Aug. 8 at the Fireman's Training Grounds at 209 Bellanger Road in Roscommon. Registration is from 8-11 a.m. , with the show starting at 9 a.m. Trophies will be awarded at 3 p.m.

A “Meatloaf dinner” available at a cost of $5 and will be served from noon to 1 p.m. The meal will be served in a tray just the way our in-home clients receive their home delivered meals.

There will be music from the 50’s & 60’s playing all day. So, dust off your car and grab your mask come on over to this FREE show and help keep our meals rolling and our seniors safe. Social distancing is a must and mask are required to get in the gates.

The purpose of the show, (aside from some awesome vehicles) is to educate our communities about and to raise funds for our “Meals-onWheels” program.

Over the last several years the

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Commission on Aging (COA) has seen significant growth in the program, indicating that the need is increasing. This past fiscal year ending September, COA served 80,479 “Meals-on-Wheels”.

During October 2019- July 2020 we have delivered over 68,002 meals county-wide. Even with Covid 19 we have served 15,646 senior center meals.

Forty three percent of Roscommon County residents are over the age of 60.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, those over the age of 65 are expected to double during the next three decades. The last baby boomer will turn 65 in the year 2030.

Roscommon County has twice as many “seniors” as school-aged children. While the COA receives grant funds and millage monies, the need surpasses both. It also relies on donations and fundraisers to supplement our “Meals-on-Wheels” program.