Grayling Santa Letters. Up North Voice December 2020

Strengthening the communities of Northeast Michigan

Mio traditions A-7 Hale makes history A-9 Nature of things A-11 Fairview Eagle Voice B-1 Toads Stool B-2 Gerald Wall B-7

Santa Letter Section Inside!

IN THIS ISSUE:

Vol. 11, Issue 12

Voice

Up North

Read us online at UpNorthVoice.com!

December 2020

Free

Out & About - December 2020 Please add your calendar item to “Out and About” by emailing mconstance@upnorthvoice.com. ~ Thank you ** Event information may be out of date due to Coronavirus **

Alcona County

Reoccurring Alcona County Veterans Coffee and Donuts on the 1st and 3rd of every month at 9am Held at the Westminster Presbyterian Church.

201 N 2nd St. Harrisville Alcona Authors - 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month at 1 pm.

Friendly, encouraging group open to writers of all levels of experience and goals for writing. Cost is $25 for six sessions, but a visit to test the waters is free. Contact Will St. John 989736-3000. Sponsored by Inspiration Alcona and the Alcona County Library.

Classic Movie Night - 3rd Friday of each month at 5:45 pm. The movie, popcorn and soda are all free.

Shows are on the big screen at the Harrisville Library, 312 W. Main St. Contact Will St. John 989-736-3000.

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 rareplants. 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 12/5 Christmas in the village

Crawford County

Recurring CRAWFORD COUNTY

BABY 2 TODDLER CLOSET 1st & 3rd Thursday of month from 11am-6pm (last client at 5:30pm) Servicing all children and families in Crawford County between birth to 3T Items Free of Charge (subject to availability) – Diapers (all sizes) – Diaper Wipes – Bath Essentials Clothing (to 3T) – Safety Items – Bedding (Cribs & Mattresses) The “Closet” is open twice at month in the basement of Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church. During holidays there may be changes to this schedule. Crawford County Baby 2 Toddler Closet has limited hours for curbside pick-up. Please contact Rosemary Nelson, Volunteer Coordinator, for information at (989) 348-2985 Free fly tying Saturday9:00am-1:00pm each Saturday at Gates AuSable Lodge 471 Stephan Bridge Road. We’ve taught dozens of people how to tie flies at these free sessions, and many are now very proficient fly makers. We have a wide selection of materials, vises and lamps. Don’t have any fly tying stuff? Just come. Have everything under the sun? Bring it. We’re back in the Board Room this year, so you can grab breakfast in the restaurant before we start tying! We have no agenda at these sessions. 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.

Scrabblers Let's Play- Thursdays at 10am at the Crawford County Commission on Aging and Senior Center.

Grayling Sportsman's Club hosts Pistol Shooting every Tuesday (excluding holidays) at 1:00 pm.

They also hosts Open Skeet and Trap every Sunday and Wednesday (excluding holidays) at 11:00 am.

Grayling Sportsman’s Club, 6990

Old Lake Road Grayling Lets Get Fit- Every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00 pm Join our adult exercise program designed with seniors in mind. Easy chair exercises, stretching, and simple yoga moves improve mind and body. Wear comfortable clothing.

Pet Food Pantry 10:00am-12:00 pm 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. Crawford County Crawford County Veterans Coffee Hour- every Thursday @9am American Legion Post106 in Grayling.

Tea and Tech Time- Every Monday through Friday Make yourself a hot beverage and let the library help you one-on-one with your laptop, tablet, e Reader, or phone questions! Call 989-3489214 to make an appointment with staff available every Monday through Friday. Appointments are also available for 3D printer demonstrations.

Story Hour- Every Wednesday at 11:15 am Birth to preschool children can come to enjoy stories, songs, crafts, snacks and activities. No sign up required.

November Board of Commissioners meetingsWednesday Nov.11th at 9am for Brownfield development. Regular meet at 5:30pm. A second regular Board Meeting will be held on Nov. 19th at 10am Free Covid Test available at Kirtland's Grayling campus Online registration is available at kirtland. edu/covid-test and statewide at michigan.gov/coronavirustest.

Patients who book online in advance or walk-in to a testing site can use a mobile device to fill out their information including name, date of birth and phone number. Test results can be obtained via phone, email or by logging into the results portal.

Testing is available on Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-4pm and Saturday10am-2pm. No cost, No insurance needed. Register in advance by calling the Covid hotline 1-888-535-6136

Iosco County

Reoccurring Saturdays- 8am -1pm The Tawas Area Farmer’s Market takes place at Gateway Park, U.S. 23, Tawas City. Remember social distancing and mask if necessary. Gateway Park 815 West Lake Street, Tawas City Fourth Thursday ( Oct.- April)

Page 2 December 2020

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Iosco County Veterans Coffee Hour 9:30-10:30am American Legion Post 211

Montmorency County

Reoccurring Veterans Coffee Hour at 9am First Tuesday of each month- 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.

Saturday Activities– Brush Creek Mill Spinners & Knitters Group, informal get together. No charge. Share conversation and ideas.

Hillman Area Historical and Genealogy Society – 3rd Thursdays at 1pm Brush Creek Mill Iyangar Yoga-Mondays and Fridays-9 am Brush Creek Mill “Getting Fit with Vickie” Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30am Lewiston Area Groomers needs your help December 5th they will be cleaning up the trails. Everyone is encouraged to bring trailing vehicles, chainsaw, garbage bags and gloves.

Don''t forget to wear a mask and social distance. Lets make our trails save for winter. ♦ 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

Out & About Continued from page 2

Ogemaw County

Reoccurring West Branch Creative Arts Association 7:00pm 124 N. Fourth Street 1st Tuesday every month at 7 pm For information call Linda 989709-0928 Books for Lunch, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM EST Come listen or share in discussion as library friends review new and fascinating books during lunch hour. West Branch District Library the 1st Tuesday of each month Please call 989-345-2235 Mondays- Wednesdays and Fridays - Meditation at Living Well Nutrition 6:30 AM www.getherbal. net. Join for a Free Meditation Class offered by Living Well Nutrition 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.

Tuesdays- Kiwanis Club of West Branch meets at the China Inn. 12pm Every Thursday At Loggers the Optimist Club meets from 7-8pm For more information call 989-3870029 Fridays- A Matter of Balance 9:30 AM -11:30 AM Designed to reduce the fear of falling & increase activity levels among older adults.

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

Second Saturday of each month at 10am you can join the Breakfast Club at Aunt Effy's Craft Closet Adult Children of Alcoholics Meetings held the first and third Sunday of each month.

Make & Take wreath Event held at the Rose City Greenhouse Fun event for the whole family lots of ribbons and decorations to choose from. Just stop by any time between 9-5 on December 5th 2206 M-33, Rose City, Mi

Oscoda County

Reoccurring 3rd Tuesday each month- Oscoda County Veterans Coffee and Donuts 9am at Ellie's 12 Tables in Mio. Community Kids Christmas Party: December 12th at noon the Mio Chapter 68 Woman of the Moose will have there annual lunch with Santa party. It will be done differently this year due to Covid19-Families will be allowed to enter one at a time to see Santa and select a gift. Bagged lunch will be handed out as you leave the building. No indoor seating will be available.

Otsego

Reoccurring 1st Wednesday each monthOtsego County Veterans Coffee Hour. 9Am at the Gaylord Regional Airport.

Wednesdays- 3:00-4:00pm If you, or someone you know is living with a chronic lung disease like COPD, Lung cancer, Pulmonary fibrosis, or emphysema, we would like to invite you to join us on the 3rd Wednesday of every month starting at 3pm at MediLodge of Gaylord. To register call 989-732-3508 or just stop on

by MediLodge of Gaylord at 508 Random Lane 2nd Wednesday- Gaylord

Bowling Center Veterans Lunch 11:30am-1pm 2nd Monday- NMVC Board Meeting 9:30am at the Chemical Bank 521 W Main St. Gaylord 3rd Wednesday- Gaylord Elks Veterans Lunch.12pm

Roscommon County

Reoccurring 1st Thursday of each month.

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

Held at Blodgett Airport in 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 Tech Hour: Every Friday at 2:00pm: Come in if you have any computer questions, or need assistance with technology, we are able to sit with you and help out. Contact Roscommon County Commission on Aging.

Story Time: Every Thursday at 10:30am: Join Miss Julie in a wonderful morning program.

Children learn how to socialize, explore their creative side, and grow their love of reading. It is a great way to start the day!

Sit and Get Fit: Every Thursday at 2:30pm: Come and do light exercises. It is a great way to stay mobile and keep those joints moving.

Adult Trivia: The 3rd Wednesday of every month at 4:30pm: Answer questions, meet new people, and see if you are smarter than a librarian Genealogy Interest Group: The last Wednesday of every month at 1:00pm: Come and join the discussion. Joining in on the discussion gives patrons the opportunity to ask questions and get answers.

The Roscommon Area Historical Society (RAHS) meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at

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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 Take your business up a notch -get Free advice from the BIZ CONSULTS from Sawmill Rural Business Center. The 1st Tuesday of every month at Houghton Lake Chamber, 1625 W. Houghton Lake Dr., Prudenville, from 10am-1pm or the 2nd Tuesday of every month at Sawmill Rural Business Center, 702 Lake St., Roscommon, MI from 9am-12pm For more information contact: Diane Suvada (989)2755743 B2B Breakfast is the 2nd Thursday of each month from 8-9am in the Village of Roscommon Offices.

In addition to great networking opportunities, Business-to-Business Breakfasts offer a different topic for discussion or learning each month.

Chamber Members are welcome; breakfasts are sponsored by area businesses and organizations. If you'd like to sponsor a breakfast, please contact the Chamber.

12/16 From 2-5 is the Children's Christmas Market located in the square in Roscommon ALL ACTIVITIES SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO COVID-19 GUIDELINES

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

December 2020 Page 3

Voice Staff Mark Constance Publisher

mconstance@ UpNorthVoice.com

Tracy Constance Marketing

tracy@UpNorthVoice.com

Suzi Kaye Marketing

sue@UpNorthVoice.com

Lindy Peterson Reporter

lindythemermaid@yahoo. com

Warren Stutesman Reporter warren@upnorthvoice.com

Rachel Johnson Digital Content Producer

Raychill.n.boys@gmail. com

William Broadnax Distribution Manager williambroadnax2015@ gmail.com

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

Seeking local history to complement Grayling-to-Roscommon trail

A new segment of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail currently under development will add about 20 miles to the trail’s planned 828-mile biking route, but project managers also plan to add layers of story to this stretch that connects Higgins Lake Nursery and the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum at North Higgins Lake State Park with Hartwick Pines State Park – and you can help.

Led by the Michigan History Center, this heritage trail project in Crawford County – unofficially dubbed the Forest Heritage Trail – is welcoming local history stories. The Center is partnering with Central Michigan University and local stakeholders to identify the unique and critical history of the area and plan for a series of interpretive informational signs for people to enjoy while exploring the trail.

Dan Spegel coordinates Michigan’s Heritage Trails program.

He said the right stories can help trail visitors connect with an area’s history and better understand a region’s development, character and place in the state’s bigger history. He pointed to the Kal-Haven Trail, in southwest Michigan, as an example.

“When we put the call out for the Kal-Haven, the community came forward with some great stories,” he said.

“For example, in 1948 Joe Louis spent a month training at Great Bear Lake to get ready for a fight with Jersey Joe Walcott. We found out that in 1901, A.M. Todd started a mint-oil operation that grew and revolutionized the global industry. We also learned about Julia Schelske, who in 1916 became one

of the earliest female car dealers for Ford Motor Company in the town of Grand Junction,” Spegel said.

“Bringing those stories into the trail makes for an experience that immerses visitors into the area’s natural and cultural history.”

Spegel stressed that heritage stories about the Forest Heritage Trail do not have to directly connect to or be about the forest. That working title for the project was chosen simply because the completed trail segment will connect the CCC Museum with Hartwick Pines, and the forest clearly has a strong presence/history in the area.

For more information, contact Dan Spegel at 517-420-6029.

Photos provided courtesy of the Archives of Michigan. The Archives estimates this photo was taken some time in the 1930s-1950s.

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

Page 4 December 2020

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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Bundling seedlings at the Higgins Lake State Nursery, about 15 miles south of Grayling. The state operated the nursery from 1903 to 1965, and the Civilian Conservation Corps boys worked there from 1933 to 1942 while the CCC program was in existence.

Preparing a seed bed for planting at the Higgins Lake State Nursery, about 15 miles south of Grayling. The state operated the nursery from 1903 to 1965, and the Civilian Conservation Corps boys worked there from 1933 to 1942 while the CCC program was in existence.

at e r G One ! r e p a P

Otsego

Montmorency

Crawford

Oscoda

Roscommon Ogemaw

People at Work Houghton Lake

and even a member from Russia," Barb Rodgers is a social media group administrator on the Facebook she added. Some of her job duties as the administrator are screening new group Talk Around the Houghton members, fact checking, Lake Area. "People can post recommendations and monitoring posts throughout the day. "After for services, current the group reached 3,000 and new businesses, members, I took on a new upcoming community administrator to help me events and activities in and around the Houghton with the group as I could not do it alone," Rodgers Lake area," Rodgers said. She took over the said. She is a retired real estate appraiser and group as administrator Barb Rodgers in February 2019 with broker who has lived only 46 followers. Since then the in Houghton Lake for 26 years.

Rodgers is also an artist and enjoys group has grown to nearly 3,500 painting when she is not online. She followers. "There are members from lives alone with her Maine Coon, all over the United States including Alaska and Hawaii," Rodgers said. the largest domesticated cat breed, named Kalli.

"There are members from Canada

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New laws could affect COA staffing nor did my offense show up on a background check. I do not think it is right to preclude anyone from employment solely on their past conviction(s). Guilty or not my offense happened nearly 27 years ago. I served my time and have tried to be a productive member of society despite individuals bringing up my past on different occasions.

Now it is the State of Michigan singling out a group of individuals who have made mistakes in the past. The new standards seem to be in direct contrast to the “Clean Slate” Criminal Justice Reform Bills Governor Whitmer recently signed.

If you feel people should be able to overcome their past wrongdoings, I ask you to become involved.

Please write your legislatures and urge them to insist on implementing a grandfather clause to allow existing employees to continue their employment. I have known many of you personally for several years.

You know I am not a threat to society but as things are written now on January 1st, AASA will consider me “a threat” to those individuals I have served for 12 years.

Sincerely, Thomas V. Pettit

Iosco

Covering 8+ Counties in the Heart of Michigan!

Letter to the Editor

To the editor: My name is Thomas Pettit and I am the director of the Roscommon County Commission on Aging. I have worked for Commission on Aging for 12 years; I have been the director since 2013.

The purpose of this letter is to make known what is being done at the state-level in Lansing. The Aging and Adult Services Agency (AASA) recently published updated operating standards concerning criminal background checks. The previous standards mandated service agencies like the COA to perform background checks prior to hiring new employees but left the vetting process up to the individual agency. The updated standards take the vetting process away from the agencies and lists “mandatory exclusions” without any grandfathering of existing employees.

After 12 years of employment with the agency, beginning January 1, 2021 I will be considered unemployable. If you don’t already know, I was convicted of sex related crimes by a general courts martial in 1994 and have been on the Sex Offender Registry since 1998. When applying for employment with the COA I did not lie on my application

Alcona

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December 2020 Page 5

Arrilyn Schneider, Youngest Hunter

Tanya Rice, First Female

Braden Lindh, Age 13

Bill Reichelderfer, 1st Buck Day 2

The 62nd Grayling Buck Pole Opener

GRAYLING - Day one of firearm deer season started with very challenging weather. While temperatures were moderate, the day experienced rain and snow that did not accumulate but was blowing sideways, at times, with strong winds.

If the concern for the Covid Pandemic wasn’t keeping some hunters from going north, the weather on day one would.

The first deer came in at 8:51 a.m., 1 hour and 11 minutes later than the first deer last year. As the day went on there was a pleasant break in the weather at noon, but in the afternoon it came to an end as the rain and snow returned. Jack from the shop went out to finish the day and visibility was minimal and “with the wind blowing hard everything was moving and it was hard to see a deer if there was one”.

Each deer is weighed and the antlers are measured on a minimum of eight distances. Tom Coors, Buck Pole Volunteer, was working the hoist up at top of the Buck Pole where the weather was most interesting.

Page 6 December 2020

Because of the rain it was difficult to fill out the scoring sheet that had to be done outside. Skips put a canopy up that the workers could get under and write the measurements on a somewhat dry score sheet. This seemed to work until the wind picked up in the afternoon and the canopy started to leave the property.

The first deer was brought in by Andrew Barber of Grayling.

Tyler Sutton, Russ Dehart and John Dickson were next to bring in their bucks.

At 11:30 the rain stopped and the clouds parted for Tanya Rice our first female, who brought in a nice 127-pound, seven point measuring 75 inches. Tanya had someone asking over and over and over where she got her deer. “In the woods.”

Big John Morin came in during the break in the weather. He and his father had been in earlier and with the weather being what it was, they were headed back to the cabin when they saw a deer beside the road. They got out of the truck, shot the deer, bought it back to the Buck Pole.

The three-point measured in at 51

inches and 115 pounds. Not bad for someone who was not hunting.

Norm Thomas, Ron Gedvilas, and Anthony Morse brought in the remaining bucks of the day as the weather worsened.

At the end of the first day nine bucks were recorded compared to last year’s 21 bucks in 2019 and nine bucks in 2018.

The second day started with temperatures just below freezing at 31 degrees. The first buck of the day, at 8:45 a.m., belonged to Bill Reichelderfer.

A deer taken the evening before by 6-year-old Arrilyn Schneider weighed 110 pounds and measured 72 inches. Arrilyn reported that the buck had come in several times but stayed just long enough the last time.

She is our youngest hunter.

Brian Jacobs, Mark Winter, Mark Jacobs (Brian’s brother), Perry Papendick, Brayden Lindh, Scott Gabriel, Travis Schreiber, Aaron Weaver, and Devin Geiger brought their bucks in throughout the day.

Jacob Meyer came in at 4:30 with the first buck of his lifetime. He is a

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bow and firearm hunter and had been out 36 times this season. He had seen a couple spikes but waited for this one. Tom Wellman buck finished off the day.

The 13 bucks on day two bring the two-day opener total to 22, a good year for a Sunday – Monday opener.

For 27 years the Camp Grayling Conservation Club has sponsored the running of the Buck Pole.

Hunters are awarded prizes in various categories such as first buck or youngest hunter. The deer are not only weighed but the antlers are measured and a scoring system takes into consideration total spread, number of points, and length of points. The overall winner for the two days receives a new $500 scoped rifle.

Skip’s Sport Shop and the Camp Grayling Conservation Club congratulates this year’s hunters and thanks them for participating in the Orange Coat Round-Up and Grayling Buck Pole Contest.

For full story, including statistics, go to www.upnorthvoice.com

A Christmas tradition to revive

Abigail Parkinson, Madison Hollenbeck, Morgan Vance, and Claudia Cadwell speaking on behalf of Hale Area Schools thanking our veterans for their service. They are standing in front of the Thank You banner decorated by the students’ handprints.

By Cody Rossen I have so far been a lifelong resident of Oscoda County, having grown up in Mio. I was very fortunate that most of my family lives in Oscoda County and as a young child growing up, we would celebrate Christmas together at my grandparent's house just a couple of miles north of Mio. We would get together on Christmas Eve, my grandparents, my aunt and uncle and my cousins and my great-grandmother; and have a nice dinner. Afterward we would all exchange gifts, often with Santa Clause visiting us. After the family get together, my parents would drive back through Mio past the county courthouse so that we could see it all lit up with the luminarias that would take place there each year. That was a memory that I always had of Christmas.

It has been many years since I can remember seeing the luminaria at the county courthouse. From what I understand, starting sometime around the middle of the 1980's, the Chamber of Commerce put them out along with the help of Lou Weber. The luminarias were really pretty simple, brown paper bags with candles inside of them. They lined all of the sidewalks of the old courthouse. It was really quite the spectacle.

Unfortunately, this annual tradition died out due to lack of participation. We may not have the old courthouse anymore, but maybe, with some renewed interest, the luminary could be brought back to Oscoda County during the Christmas season again?

Hale Area Schools hold Veteran’s Day ceremony Luminarias lined the sidewalks at the Oscoda County property in the past. ` ~Photos courtesy Nelson Yoder.

SHOP LOCAL TODAY!

By Madison Hollenbeck and Gage Kangas HALE - During October, the Hale Area School Teacher Prep Academy cadets teamed up with Mrs. Look to plan a celebration for the veterans on Nov. 11. At 1 p.m., veterans and community members gathered around the flagpole in front of the school. The National Honors Society helped welcome the veterans to their seats and handed out little gift bags.

Teacher Prep Academy wanted a way for all grades, Kindergarten through 12th, to participate in this ceremony. They made a banner with every students’ painted handprints that said, “Thank you!”

Mr. Coleman and Madison Hollenbeck put together a Google Meet so that those currently serving and the elderly that could not be present could watch. The superintendent, Mr. Colby started the ceremony with an opening speech.

Pastor Mel from the Hale Methodist Church said a few words and a prayer for the veterans. The band performed the National Anthem. Following the National Anthem, the Boy Scouts led

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everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Claudia Cadwell, Morgan Vance, Abigail Parkinson, and Madison Hollenbeck put together a speech.

The third and fourth graders and high school choir sang “This Land Is Your Land”.

Although the weather was on the cold side, we had a very great turnout. The veterans loved the ceremony. The veterans left knowing that they are loved and appreciated. They all had smiles on their faces.

Hale Area Schools students and staff would like to say thank you for your service to all who have served or are currently serving in our military branches.

Anna Temple and Madison Hollenbeck welcoming and thanking Madison Hubbs for her service in the Army National Guard.

December 2020 Page 7

The airline had a policy that required the first officer to stand at the door while the passengers exited, smile, and give them a - 'Thanks for flying XYZ airline'. An airline pilot on this particular flight hammered his plane into the runway really hard.

In light of his bad landing, he had difficulty looking the passengers in the eye, all the time he thought that a passenger would have a smart comment. However, it seemed that all the passengers were too shell shocked to say anything.

Finally, everyone had gotten off except for this little old lady walking with a cane. She said, 'Sonny, mind if I ask you a question?' Why no Ma'am,’ said the pilot, 'What is it', the little old lady said, 'Did we land or were we shot down?'

Do you want to hear a construction joke?

Sorry, I’m still working on it.

Brenda and Terry are going out for the evening. The last thing they do is put their cat out. The taxi arrives, and as the couple walk out of the house, the cat scoots back in.

Terry returns inside to chase it out.

Brenda, not wanting it known that the house would be empty, explains to the taxi driver, 'My husband is just going upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.' Several minutes later, an exhausted Terry arrives and climbs back into the taxi saying, 'Sorry I took so long, the stupid idiot was hiding under the bed and I had to poke her with a coat hanger several times before I could get her to come out!'

I'm always amazed to hear of air crash victims so badly mutilated that they have to be identified by their dental records. What I can't understand is, if they don't know who you are, how do they know who your dentist is?

My word, that's a heavy fish, Doc

Doctor Dermot Reid from Fareham in Hampshire, England, was famous in South Hants for always catching large fish and for winning fishing trophies.

One day while he was on one of his frequent fishing trips in the Test Valley he got a call that a woman at Cropper's Farm was giving birth.

He hurried to her aid and delivered a healthy baby boy. The farmer had nothing to weigh the baby with so Doctor Reid used his fishing scales.

The baby weighed 22 lbs 10 oz …

There’s a fine line between a numerator and a denominator. (…Only a fraction of people will get this clean joke.)

What do dentists call their x-rays?

Tooth pics!

Did you hear about the first restaurant to open on the moon?

It had great food, but no atmosphere.

This will more than rot your teeth

The hospital's consulting dietician was giving a lecture to several community nurses from the Southampton area of Hampshire.

'The rubbish we put into our stomachs and consume should have killed most of us sitting here, years ago. Red meat is terrible. Fizzy drinks attack your stomach lining. Chinese food is loaded with msg. Vegetables can be disastrous because of fertilizers and pesticides and none of us realizes the long-term damage

Page 8 December 2020

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson go on a camping trip, set up their tent, and fall asleep.

Some hours later, Holmes wakes his faithful friend. 'Watson, look up at the sky and tell me what you see.'

Watson replies, 'I see millions of stars.' ' What does that tell you?'

Watson ponders for a minute.'

Astronomically speaking, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, it tells me that Saturn is in Leo. Time wise, it appears to be approximately a quarter past three. Theologically, it's evident the Lord is all-powerful and we are small and insignificant.

Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow.

What does it tell you? Holmes is silent for a moment, then speaks. 'Watson, you idiot, someone has stolen our tent.'

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being done by the rotten bacteria in our drinking water.

However, there is one food that is incredibly dangerous, and we all have, or will, eat it at some time in our lives. Now, is anyone here able to tell me what food it is that causes the most grief and suffering for years after eating it?'

A 65-year-old nursing sister sitting in the front row stood up and said, 'Wedding cake.'

Above: The Hale football team poses with the scoreboard after their regional semi-final victory over Brethren. Right: Billie Jo Ludwig, Amanda Goodman and Chrystal Teachout cheer on the Eagles. Below: David Wanty celebrates a touchdown ~ Photos by Mark Constance

Hale football makes school history

By Claudia Cadwell HALE - High School football playoffs are underway all over the state of Michigan. Our very own Hale Eagles are making their mark in the bracket and the record books as they have soared their way into Regional Finals.

Heading into the postseason, the football program has had only one playoff appearance under their belt in 1999 and zero playoff wins. This year's team put their name on the record book with not one, but two playoff wins to start out the postseason.

Saturday, Oct. 31, the Eagles faced off on their home field with a familiar face; the Posen Vikings.

Coming off of a win against the Vikings earlier in the season, the North Star League showdown did not disappoint the home crowd. The Eagles delivered a stellar performance, clenching the history-making win 72-8.

“It felt great to win our first

playoff game and make history,” said senior David Wanty. “Everyone's hard work is paying off and we are having fun.”

Wanty finished the night out with four touchdowns running 129 yards. Robert Rosebrough did what he does best, putting numbers on the board with 134 yards and three touchdowns.

Keaton Ludwig had a great defensive performance with 11.5 tackles. He also carried in a touchdown.

Dylan Koepke added to the lead with a touchdown and Kevin Kesler brought 10.5 tackles to the win.

This victory advanced the Eagles to Regional SemiFinals at home against Brethren.

Regional Semi-Finals on Nov. 7 offered the community of Hale the same sense of pride as the Eagles clenched their second playoff win, earning a spot in regional finals. The Eagles beat the

Brethren Bobcats 44-8.

“We have great guys who just want to win,” said senior Captain Keaton Ludwig. “It’s a great feeling to have a whole community behind you, people are excited about Hale Football again.”

Ludwig finished the game with 8.5 tackles. David Wanty went for two touchdowns and 135 yards.

Robert Rosebrough put three touchdowns on the board with 140 yards and 10.5 tackles. Kevin Kesler added a touchdown for the offense and Brenden Bernard and Jesse Francisco bumped up the defense with five tackles each. The Eagles

moved on to play in Marion for a chance at a Regional Championship Nov. 13.

"Going into the Regional Finals, I'm incredibly proud of how this team has worked this season and to be able to play for a Championship, with a banner and trophy on the line is something special,” said first year coach Grant Kortman. “This team has already done amazing things on the field winning this game would continue to build their legacy. It's been awesome to see the community and the school rally around this team, and we hope we can continue to make them proud."

Toys for Tots continues

ROSCOMMON COUNTY – The Toys for Tots spirit is alive and well this year in Roscommon County, although with stricter guidelines.

Register online before Dec. 14 at www.toysfortots.org and choose your county. The cut-off age for children this year is 15 years old.

No applications will be accepted after Dec. 14.

All of the Toys for Tots boxes and donations will also be picked up on that date.

There are two days to pick up the toys this year to help with social

distancing; Friday, Dec. 18 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. You will need to bring your ID and wear a mask (required). No children will be allowed during pick up.

For those wishing to donate, there are boxes labeled Toys for Tots in different locations around the county. And, don’t forget to help fill the Blue Goose in front of the Houghton Lake Walmart Nov. 28 and Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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December 2020 Page 9

Obituaries & Death Notices Bonnie Sue Young

Bonnie Sue Young, age 73, of Mio, MI, dear wife of Tracey Young, passed away Friday, November 27, 2020 at her home.

Marie Louise Schanck Marie Louise (Cournyer) Schanck, loving wife of John Schanck, Jr., and mother of Denise Kalafut, William & Debbie Schanck, Patricia Schanck, John & Fran Schanck, III; went home to be with the Lord November 27, 2020 after a long battle with cancer.

Judith Lynne Bundoff Judith Lynne Bundoff passed away October 29, 2020.

Marty Dahl

Marty Dahl left this earth on Monday, November 2, 2020, in the ‘little house on the hill’ in Fairview where his parents and grandparents had lived and where his mother and grandfather also passed on.

Willard W. Miller

Willard W. Miller, age 91 of Fairview, Michigan, passed away at his home on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Memorial donations may be directed to the Fairview Mennonite Church, P.O. Box 100, Fairview, MI 48621.

Harry L. Handrich

Harry L. Handrich, age 88 of Fairview, Michigan, passed away at

Edward E. Smigowski

Edward E. Smigowski, age 86, of Comins, passed away, November 12, 2020 at home.

Brian Ray Owen, 61, of Grayling passed away peacefully November 3, 2020.

Thomas A. Denno

Thomas A. Denno, 79, of Frederic, passed away on Monday, November 02, 2020.

Kenneth Money

Susan K. Chartier

Bernadine C. "Carol" Shook, age 71 of Rose City, Michigan, passed away at her home on Sunday, November 15, 2020.

Brian Ray Owen

Elmer Alfred Trombley, 91, of Grayling, MI passed away October 31, 2020.

Nathaniel R. Welling, age 20 of Lewiston, Michigan, passed away at his home on Sunday, November 22, 2020.

Bernadine C. "Carol" Shook

Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Pamerleau, 103, of Grayling, passed away on November 8, 2020 in Grayling.

Elmer Alfred Trombley

Nathaniel R. Welling

Susan K. Chartier, age 68 of Mio, Michigan, passed away at her home on Thursday, November 19, 2020.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Pamerleau

Isabell Rose Garrison

Isabell Rose Garrison, 96, went to be with the Lord Saturday, Nov. 7, 2000 at Kirksville Manor Care.

Marie Yoder

Marie Yoder, age 92 of Fairview, Michigan, passed away at her home on Tuesday, November 3, 2020.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Compassus-Atlanta, 12480 State Street, Suite 10, Atlanta, MI 49709 or to Comins Community Church Special Missions Fund, 4263 West First Street, Comins, MI 48619.

his home on Saturday, October 31, 2020. Memorials may be made for the needs and wishes of the family.

Kenneth Money, 85, of Grayling, MI passed away peacefully on October 28, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the AuSable Valley Animal Shelter in memory of Kenneth.

Dr. Tyler W Steffey

Barbara Ann Pyle

Dr. Tyler W Steffey was called home to heaven on Nov 16th. He died peacefully with his wife and family at his side. Tyler's family requests that In Lieu of Flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Crawford AuSable Excellence in Education Foundation (CAEEF) for a scholarship that will be set up to honor Tyler.

Address: CAEEF c/o Crawford AuSable School District 1135 Old US 27 North, Grayling, MI 49738 Attn: Kim Schmidt; or contributions to the family to help defer the medical costs of Tyler's care may be sent to Central Drug Store ATTN: Katy, 301 Bridge Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720,or celebratetylersteffey@gmail.com

Clarence Allen Papendick

Clarence Allen Papendick, 94, of Grayling, went straight to heaven on Friday, November 13, 2020;

Maurine “Jane” Larson

Maurine “Jane” Larson, 76, passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2020.In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation in Jane’s name for the family to purchase new winter coats, winter boots and backpacks filled with miscellaneous school supplies to give to Grayling Elementary School students in need.

Barbara Ann Pyle, age 83, of Higgins Lake, died on Sunday, November 22, 2020, at home in the presence and comfort of her family. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Barbara’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Robert Michael Hric

Robert Michael Hric, age 90, of Roscommon, passed peacefully on Monday, November 16, 2020.

Catherine Irene Ludwig

Catherine Irene Ludwig, age 73, of Grayling, died on Saturday, November 14, 2020, at her home in the presence and comfort of her family. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Cathy’s name to Grayling Baptist Church, 705 Madsen St, Grayling, MI 49738.

Gladys Ruth Bugosh Gladys Ruth Bugosh, age 83, of Roscommon, died on Saturday, November 14, 2020 in Saginaw, Michigan.

Silvia Gail Alchin

Silvia Gail Alchin, age 83, of Roscommon, died on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, in Houghton Lake. The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Silvia’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Fairview author releases new book FAIRVIEW – Richard Rensberry of Fairview released his first book in his Sasquatch series, previously published online.

Conversations with Sasquatch, The Encounter, begins the saga of this mysterious creature's presence amongst the human race. Who are these Beings and why is so little known about them? How do they continually escape the Big Foot hunters and chasers so dead set

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on creating or finding Sasquatch remains?

Meet Tecumseh, a Native American that resides in Comins and a Sasquatch family from Cross Over, near Big Creek. Meet Loquiis, Leeitus, Pureesis and Loquiili, a Sasquatch family living undetected right under the noses of those so eager to find them.

The book is available through Amazon.

Know your landscape from the ground, up The Nature of Things By Chris Engle Drive an hour in any direction in Northern Michigan and you’ll see the landscape change in dramatic ways.

The explanation often lies in the soil.

Don’t call it “dirt” — dirt is the stuff that scuffs up your sneakers or collects under your fingernails during a day of yard work. Soil is a complex mix of silt, sand, clay, minerals, microbes and organic matter and holds much of the power in deciding what kinds of plants grow on a landscape.

The massive sheet of ice which carved and shaped Michigan thousands of years ago is long gone but its impacts continue to play a role in the plant life of our region. Along the northern Lake Huron coast, the glacier scraped away material right down to bedrock. Further inland, the mile-thick ice deposited huge amounts of earth in rolling hills as it receded. This is the foundation of Northern Michigan’s diverse forest

cover since different tree and plant species have different soil needs.

Soil quality is also determined by the amount of duff — leaves, sticks, grasses and other dead stuff — that accumulates and decomposes over many years, providing essential compost for future generations of plants. Wind and water play a role too by depositing or eroding away soil over time or with sudden events like floods.

There are six basic soil types defined by their mineral makeup and texture— silt, sand, clay, peat, chalk and loam — and soils are usually a blend of these characteristics.

Brittany VanderWall is District Forester at Presque Isle Conservation District where she facilitates the state’s Forestry Assistance Program, a service for private landowners seeking to manage their property for timber production or wildlife habitat.

Part of her effort often involves using a soil map, which shows the location of different soil types on a particular property, to help determine where certain tree species will grow best.

“You can almost always overlay that soil map over a forest cover map and there’s a clear trend,” she said.

Presque Isle County admittedly has tough growing conditions for hardwood trees like sugar

Posen High School students explore a coastal fen, where poor-quality soil over shallow bedrock means pitcher plants find their nutrients by eating plants and other insects. ~Photo courtesy Huron Pines

maples, VanderWall said, due in part to its thin, alkaline soil over limestone bedrock. Sugar maples prefer nutrient-rich soils with good moisture and drainage like those found in higher elevations inland.

One exception, she said, is a ridge in Moltke Township that’s 100 feet above the surrounding land and holds the highest quality hardwoods in the county — tall maples prized for their timber.

“That’s thanks to the soils there,” she said.

What it might otherwise lack in hardwoods, the coastal areas of Presque Isle County make up with some incredibly rare and interesting plants that are found exclusively in its bedrock-dominant landscape.

Our state wildflower, the dwarf lake iris, thrives here and essentially nowhere else on Earth. So does the carnivorous pitcher plant, which gets its nutrients not from the soil but

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from catching and consuming flies and other insects.

Back in October, students from Posen High School joined partners of Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative including Huron Pines, VanderWall and network coordinator Meag Schwartz for a field exploration trip to Thompson’s Harbor State Park.

There they toured a coastal marsh teeming with pitcher plants and used hand trowels to investigate the soil of a nearby forest of birch trees and juniper shrubs.

“My students were able to take away valuable information and skills from analyzing soil samples,” said Posen teacher Stephanie Dege. “They were then able to tie the soil type to the vegetation it supports. This activity allowed them to add to their list of field skills which they will build upon with future trips to the ♦ See LANDSCAPE on page 12

December 2020 Page 11

Tagged fish caught in Higgins Lake HOUGHTON LAKE—Mount Pleasant angler Jim Reihl caught a tagged fish in Higgins Lake, b almost missed being in the 202021 Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau’s Catch Us If You Can fishing utcontest.

Reihl was fishing Higgins Lake May 23, 2020 with his son Cole.

“We went out in the morning jigging for lake trout,” Reihl said.

When they found the right spot on the lake, he caught two fish within 10 minutes.

“It was a beautiful day to fish!”

Reihl said.

Jim and Cole noticed the tag on the lake trout, but didn’t know what it signified.

In September, Cole heard on the radio the advertisement for the drawing of the 2019 contest which had been rescheduled because of Covid 19. That led to Jim calling the

Landscape

Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau to find out what the tag meant.

Luckily they had taken pictures of the over 8 pound lake trout that day, clearly showing the tag. His catch was verified, and he received a $50 gas card for catching the tagged fish.

He is now a contestant in April 2021 grand prize drawing at Spicer’s Boat City, Houghton Lake.

The grand prize for adult anglers is $100,000 and Lund boat from Spicer’s. There is a guaranteed major prize of $1000 cash.

The second-place prize is a Mark Martin Ice Fishing School valued at $500.

Youth anglers (17 and under) catching a tagged fish are eligible to win a $250 cash prize and a new kayak.

More than 100 tagged fish are swimming in Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, and Lake St. Helen.

Jim Reihl with the tagged Lake Trout he caught out of Higgins Lake.

Anglers can bring their tagged fish in for verification at Lyman’s on the Lake in Houghton Lake, Korbinski’s Marine in Prudenville; The Sports Barn at Higgins Lake, or in Saint Helen either at Trail’s End Motel or The Minnow Bucket at Exit 222.

The contest is year-around, ending on March 15 each year, and beginning again March 16. For more information on the contest, please contact the HLATB office at 1-989-422-2002, 1-800-676-5330 or email info@visithoughtonlake.com.

Contest rules are found on www. visithoughtonlake.com.

For info on advertising in Up North Voice call 989-275-1170 Page 12 December 2020

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Continued from page 11 park.”

“Experiences like these are the core of place-based education,” said Emily Vogelgesang, Huron Pines Environmental Education Coordinator. “When students gain a deeper understanding of natural resources in places they are familiar with and have connections to, it sets the groundwork for lifelong stewardship.”

“That’s the bread and butter of what we do — making sure the public is educated and engaged about their land,” VanderWall added, noting her excitement about sharing the magic of soil with the students. “It takes 200 years for an inch of soil to form naturally. When you dig into the soil with a shovel and pull it back, you’re seeing hundreds of years of deposition, and that’s where I sort of geek out.”

Just like our state wildflower, Michigan also has a state soil.

“Kalkaska sand” was left behind by the glaciers and covers a million acres of Northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The reddish-brown soil grows grand forests and its excellent water filtration contributes to the health of rivers like the Au Sable and Manistee.

Grab a shovel and geek out about the soils on your land. Just don’t call it dirt.

Remembering the reason for Christmas Toad's Stool

By Warren Stutesman Hello and welcome to December.

As much fun as we had last month with all of its holidays, this month has the one Holiday that for me tops them all, Christmas.

I know the pagan traditions leading to the origin of Christmas and the many meanings of the decorations and the festivities involved. However, I choose to focus on the birth of Christ in my own family celebrations. I also just love the Christmas hymns they are my favorite music.

This year will be special in that my one grandson will be two years old and will be able to understand the receiving of gifts. Our other older grandchildren are 4 and 6 years, it’s always so much fun watching the young ones opening their presents.

The youngest is 2 months so she may not quite understand it all yet. She does take after her Grandpa though and being so smart who knows she just may.

I have received many presents early this year, I am talking of the great variety of birds visiting me right now. Though the Cardinal has not returned, the Tufted Titmice have remained as a daily visitor. Now we have had the pleasure of visits from the ever-welcome Evening Grosbeaks. The birds may cost

me a bit to feed but the joy I get watching them more than repays me in enjoyment. If you do not feed the birds you should give it a try, you just may be surprised at the peace watching them can bring you.

I see that the Buck Pole in Mio had a few deer hanging on it so it looks like some of the hunters have had some luck. I know that opening day was less than wonderful for weather. I was surprised though that more deer have not been harvested.

Of course, being as I no longer hunt, I guess that I just am not in tune with the deer the way I once was.

In the spirit of Christmas giving, a friend of mine and his wife have decided to give a sizable amount to someone as a gift. This has got me to thinking, is there something more that I can do myself? Can I do something that would help another?

Then it dawned on me that I do know of a family that could use something that I can help them with.

Sometimes we need to step back and look at our blessings and when we put things in perspective we realize that there is a little something that each of us can do for another.

Looking back on the festivities of November and ahead to the treats of Christmas makes me glad that our next holiday will be New Year’s Day. Along with New Year’s will come our resolutions and hey then the weight gained over the preceding months will just disappear right?

Well that's all for this month, I look forward to our next visit.

I wish you all a Very Merry Christmas. May we all remember the reason we are celebrating this day.

Huron-Manistee National Forests announces new Mio District Ranger CADILLAC — The HuronHe began his Forest Service career Manistee National Forests are proud as a student intern in recreation to introduce the new District Ranger on the Superior National Forest in for the Mio Ranger District, Greyling Minnesota.

Brandt. As District Ranger, Greyling Greyling has worked on the Los is responsible for the management of Padres National Forest in Southern the natural resources and personnel California, the Fishlake National of the 438,000 acre Mio Ranger Forest in Utah, the Chequamegon District. His official start date will Nicolet National Forests in be January 17, 2021. He is currently Wisconsin and on the Mark Twain serving as the Acting National Forest in District Ranger in Mio. Missouri. He has held “Greyling brings over such varied positions as 16 years of a diverse implementation forester, range of experience district recreation and and leadership to the lands staff officer, Huron-Manistee National windstorm project Forests,” said Leslie recovery lead, acting Auriemmo, Forest public affairs officer and Supervisor, “his proven acting district ranger. With Greyling Brandt leadership skills and his varied experiences and ability to bring people together leadership skills, Greyling will be an towards the big picture will be of incredible asset to the Mio Ranger great benefit for Mio and across the District and the Huron-Manistee Forests.”

National Forests.

Greyling grew up in northern Greyling says it is a privilege to Wisconsin and always wanted to manage public lands. “I am looking work for the Forest Service. He forward to working hard to engage graduated from the University of my staff and the community to Wisconsin Stevens Point with a B.S. continue to build upon the great in Forestry and Soils Management. legacy of the Mio Ranger District.”

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Another way of learning Roscommon County Literacy Home Country

By Slim Randles Steve was just sitting there on the tailgate of his pickup, looking out at the world and thinking he’s doing all right. The two little kids walking down the sidewalk saw their favorite cowboy sitting there and grinned.

“Hi Steve!”

“Oh hey there, Bobby … Sylvia … how you kids doing these days?”

“Had a good Thanksgiving. Yep. Getting ready for Christmas. Bobby was telling me just a while ago that he wants to train horses, like you, when he grows up.”

“I told you not to say anything, Syl, but there you go again. Now Steve will think all I want is horse training lessons.”

“Horse training lessons?” Steve said. “Now that would be a good idea, actually. It’s always a smart thing to learn from others’ mistakes before you make the same ones.”

“Mistakes?”

“See this scar on my arm?” They both nodded. “Barbed wire fence at 27 miles an hour. Horse didn’t have a mark on him.”

“That was a mistake?”

“Sure was, Bobby. I wasn’t supposed to ride that horse. I was about 12, and they told me to ride something gentler.”

“But you didn’t, huh?”

“No, Sylvia I didn’t, because when you’re 12, you already know more than the grown-ups around you.

It was great, being that smart when I was only 12.”

The kids examined every inch of the scar. “I bet you learned, huh?”

“Oh sure, I learned never to run a fractious horse along a barbed-wire fence. And I learned other stuff, too.

My right leg’s been broken once and I couldn’t work for almost two months. My left foot was stomped on and two bones broken by a draft horse I was shoeing, and this scar on the back of my neck? Low branch on a tree and a runaway colt. And on this other arm … see these? That’s all from a horse jerking his hoof while I was shoeing him and I hadn’t clinched the nail yet.”

Bobby thought for a minute.

“That’s a lot of learning, Steve. Did it hurt?”

“Every one of them and a couple I don’t show to anyone. Are you ready to learn how to be a cowboy? Need some scars?”

“I …. well … I guess I’d better ask my folks first.”

Council receives grant

ROSCOMMON COUNTY - The Roscommon County Community Foundation (RCCF) is happy to announce that the Roscommon County Literacy Council recently received a grant of $1,000.00 for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

Funding for this project was provided by the Morley Family Foundation Fund, the Roscommon County General Fund, and the Roscommon County Kellogg Youth Fund.

The purpose of this grant is to make it possible for all children Caleb Buck holds a book like those received from the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

under the age of five to receive one book per month upon enrollment into the free program. There are currently 545 children in Roscommon County enrolled, with approximately 700 graduates since the program started 10 years ago. The Literacy Council hopes to keep increasing these numbers for years to come.

Want to get involved? You can support the Roscommon County Community Foundation by making your donation payable to RCCF at P.O. Box 824, Roscommon, MI 48653 or by visiting myrccf.org to make a donation online.

SHOP LOCAL! UpNorthVoice.com

December 2020

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989-389-1960

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Power outage!

View From the Comfy Chair

By Joel Vernier

HUNTING SUCCESS - Jason Vanacker took this buck in Missaukee County. He is pictured with his children, Eden and Brett Vanacker.

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December 2020

It was a quiet, peaceful evening watching a comedy show on television. I was sitting in my "Comfy Chair" with a nice warm fall throw covering me. Life was good!

Then it happened, without warning, no high winds, no lightning, just a light rain and then the power went out! In an instant, the family room turned pitch black. The whole house seemed to groan to a stop.

Then silence!

The dogs were napping, and they didn't seem to notice. I was overcome with an overwhelming feeling of loss. My routine of relaxing and was watching my favorite television shows was abruptly disrupted. It's a feeling of helplessness, concern for the freezers full of beef and pork, and the hope that the power outage would not last long.

We have become so dependent on our modern conveniences. Living in the city, the water stayed on so you could take a shower and flush the toilet. Living in a rural area with a well, you might have one or two flushes, and then you are out.

My phone alerted me that I had a message to read. It was Consumers letting me know that I had a power outage; I knew that already. It gave me a link to restoration. What will it be? Days? As the link brought up the page, it said 2 ½ hours to power restoration.

I thought to myself, I can handle that! I do have a generator that I can hook up and power most of the household needs. But it is raining out, and I have to get it out of the garage, hook it up, make sure it's safe, and then hope it will start. Or I can wait for 2 ½ hours, heck I can nap longer than that!

So, I decided to wait it out. I did not have a flashlight near me, and

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I decided to hunt for a light when my wife came towards me with a small luminary. The blackness was penetrated with enough light to be able to walk around the house.

I began to think about other power outages that I have lived thru.

One warm July night, my family watched the movie "Arachnophobia."

It was just at the scene where Jeff Daniels was going to see the ginormous spider up close, and just as the film hit a fevered pitch, I heard a clap of thunder and the power went out! Talk about the creepy-crawly feeling, the heebee jeebees, and a touch of panic!

Then I remember a few years ago the power went out on the day before Christmas and lasted for five days.

We cooked Christmas dinner on the BBQ, vegetables and all. We did not have a generator at the time, and some friends were kind enough to lend us one to keep our freezers from thawing.

We have a gas stove and a coffee percolator to make our coffee, and we can cook eggs and bacon. Toast is a trick in a pan, but it comes out alright.

As a youngster, I enjoyed power outages because it brought the family closer together. We were all in the same room and had real conversations. I always felt like it was an adventure, like being on the frontier!

Sure enough, at 2 ½ hours, the power came on! It was exhilarating!

As the rain continued and a thunderstorm kicked in, I took the time to thank our Consumers Power workers that went out into the darkness and got our power working! Thank you to all of our first responders that help out in all of these situations. When they are working in my area, I offer a bottle of water or some candy!

"Remember, every day is a gift!

Some are just a little more fun to open than others. – © Joel M. Vernier 11/11/2020 Author of: "The Guinea Pig In The Freezer." joelmvernier@ aol.com

Fall heating safety

By Ken Elmore, Markey Township firefighter

As usual, the cold weather is upon us before most of us are ready for it. Naturally that means some of the preparations for the winter season get rushed or overlooked altogether, leading to potentially dangerous conditions.

We’ve discussed wood stove safety before, so let’s take a look at the regular furnace that many homes have for some tips and suggestions to help avoid fires.

First of all, the modern home furnace is really quite a magnificent piece of technology. Whether it be a natural gas, propane or in some cases fuel oil, it keeps us warm and cozy throughout the winter months without much attention or thought.

That’s both good and bad. Good for the convenience and reliability, bad because when something works that well we have a tendency to take it for granted, forgetting it still needs to be looked after. It takes care of us, so let’s take care of it.

That starts, in theory, before the heating season begins with a series of checks and maintenance we should do every season without fail. We strongly suggest that those of you who may have already fired things up for the season backtrack and don’t just assume everything is in good working order.

Some of the things a homeowner can do for safety are simple and easy.

Before you fire up the furnace, or any fuel fired equipment for that matter, always know where the fuel shutoff is and how to operate it.

Things can accumulate over time, so make sure that clutter and debris are removed from the area of the furnace and hot water tank. Many home fires start with junk and waste too close to these appliances.

The pros in the heating industry emphasize that filters should be changed often to avoid restricting proper air flow and the possibility

of ignition from overloaded filter screens. It should be noted that restricting the airflow can lead to dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide in the home, so a CO detector should be a part of your home safety equipment at all times.

Just a few things us homeowners can do.

Just as important, maybe more so, are the safety and maintenance checks that should be done by a professional. There are critical things that need periodic safety checks the homeowner just can’t do.

These include such things as making sure the furnace motor runs correct and doesn’t overheat leading to fire. Making sure that there is enough air flow for your unit allowing the combustion chamber the proper ratio of gas to air. They can and will adjust the flame structure for efficient burning as necessary. This is critical in avoiding incomplete combustion and that CO thing we talked about earlier.

The experts also can make sure your heat exchanger is not damaged, leading to hot gases escaping into the wrong area and igniting something combustible. They can also check the condition of your thermostats, sometimes allowing you to save money on the bills.

Nothing to do with fire safety, but the extra cash is always welcome.

Heating technicians can also check your “high limit” switch for proper operation. Most folks don’t even have a clue what that is, or where it is, but if it malfunctions, it can be disastrous.

These are all suggestions for you to help keep you warm and safe this winter. As you can see, if you do your part the furnace will be able to do its part.

Finally, remember, if you hear your smoke or CO detectors going off, or smell smoke or gas, don’t hesitate to call us for help, we’re there year-round!

4-H World Pen Pal Program registration opens

ROSCOMMON COUNTY Roscommon 4-H invites youth to make an international friend through letter writing!

The January-April 2021 Winter Pen Pal Program registration opens Nov 16 for its second Pen Pal Program. The program runs from Jan. 18 to April 18, 2021. Participants must be between the ages of 9 to 18.

States’ 4-H will match participants with an international peer from one of the participating country. 4-H will

make its best effort to match based on country preference, age, gender, and interests. Participants are asked to write at least two times per month with their international pen pal.

Interested participants should sign up by completing an online registration, which includes a Terms of Use agreement. There is no cost for participation. Sign up at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/7N8RBHY

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Election Day 2020: Around the community In Beaver Creek Township, cars parked along M18 on election morning

Rebecca and Bill Ballard in West Branch Township

Waiting in line at the Albert Township polling location

Right: Pat Thornton, of Lewiston Voters in line at Richfield Township

~Photos by Mark Constance and Dave Ryan

Danny and Tara Rowe and Grant Gates voting in Grayling Township

Steve Martin, Gayle Madison Hendy and Jolie Boozer at Gerrish Township

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December 2020

Carrie and Stephen Durfee with Laila and Abella at the Big Creek polling location.

Voters in Briley Township awaiting their turns to vote.

UpNorthVoice.com

Oscoda Co Senior News

By Suzanne Barker

Happy Holidays from the staff at the Oscoda County Council on Aging! Merry Christmas! Here we are at the end of another year. It certainly has been a challenging year for all of us.

Unfortunately, it does not look like we are going to be done with the challenges just yet. It was our intention to open the center for congregate meals in the beginning of December with the current restrictions being followed of course.

However, with the new restrictions in place that will not be possible at this time. We will get the word out when it once again becomes possible.

The Senior Center will still be offering to go meals for lunches.

Please call ahead for orders, this allows the kitchen to have them bagged and ready when you come to pick up. This also helps the line at the window move faster and cuts down

on having to stand out in the cold as long. Orders are ready to be picked up starting at 11:30 a.m.

Here are the food drops happening this month: The Together We Can food pantry will be at the fairgrounds Dec. 3 and again Dec. 17 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The CSFP (senior cheese box) will be Dec. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. also at the fairgrounds.

The Board of Directors meeting will be Dec. 14 at 9 a.m. The Senior Center will be closed beginning Dec. 23 at noon and will be reopening Jan. 4, 2021 at 8 a.m.

There will be a breakfast meal available for take out on the 23 from 9 – 10 a.m.

All of us here at the Senior Center are wishing for wonderful holidays and a Merry Christmas to all of you!

Suzanne Barker is the Director of the Oscoda County Council on Aging. To contact her please call 989 826-3025

Grant money available for projects benefiting area youth

The North Central Michigan Community Foundation (NCMCF) Youth Advisory Councils (YAC) are accepting grant applications for the 2021 grant cycle. The deadline for YAC grant applications is December 15. All non-profit agencies with a 501(c)(3) IRS designation, schools, churches (for non-religious purposes) and government agencies serving the counties of Crawford, Ogemaw and Oscoda are invited to apply for projects and programs benefiting area youth ages 18 and under.

Applications are available at

ncmcf.org, where they may be completed online and submitted via email, or printed for completion. If applications are mailed, they must be postmarked by the grant deadline date and sent to the NCMCF office at P.O. Box 495, Alpena, MI 49707.

Applicants may request up to $2,500 for projects serving Ogemaw County, and $1,000 for projects serving Crawford and Oscoda Counties.

Applicants may also call the Community Foundation office for more information at 1-877-354-6881.

NEMCSA honors long time board member

ROSCOMMON COUNTY Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMCSA), wishes to express its deepest appreciation to Gerald Wall, a long-time Board Member that represented Roscommon County.

Mr. Wall has been a member of the NEMCSA Board of Directors since 1999. Gerald has been an active, involved member and has served on many committees during his tenure, learning the various aspects of NEMCSA’s varied programming. What interests Mr. Wall the most about the NEMCSA Board is that they “do address the problems that concern me and the truly poor in America”. His most rewarding insight in serving on the NEMCSA Board has been to see, “a lifting of all ships to a common level” and that “with help and a job, people who struggle can make it in this great country”.

Gerald says “it is a true learning experience to see how the problems of the poor can be addressed”.

“Gerald has made lasting contributions to our agency ensuring that NEMSCA serves our communities with relevant programs that truly advance our mission of empowering people to live enhanced lives,” said Lisa Bolen, NEMCSA’s

Executive Director. “His presence on our Board will be truly missed.”

In addition to his service on the NEMCSA Board of Directors, Mr. Wall has been very involved in his community. He is a 32 degree Mason; a Michigan Firemen’s Memorial Festival Committee (MFMFC) Board Member; a board member and chaplain of the local and state Sons of the American Revolution (SAR); a member of the Confederate Sons of America (CSA); is involved with his local police department; and is Chairman of the Roscommon County Republican Party.

He has been a National Delegate to the Republican Presidential Convention five times.

NEMCSA is a private, nonprofit Community Action Agency that provides many programs and services throughout its core eleven northeast Michigan counties, a territory of 6300 square miles. These counties are: Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque isle. As with Head Start, certain services cover a much wider service area. To find out more information regarding NEMCSA programs and services, please visit www.nemcsa.org.

DOUBLE HARVEST - Robyn PillingerDaniels got two deer this season! Monday, Nov. 16 she shot the first at 5:11 p.m. after packing to go, while waiting for her husband with the truck. Two more came in within ten minutes and she shot her second. Two deer to fill the new freezer that was just delivered!

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

December 2020

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An unexpected encounter

201 YEARS OF COMBINED MILITARY SERVICE with Jimmy Reed, Mike Doremire, Danny McCoy, Ron Latuzsek, Scott Carr, Jeff Vinton, John Humitz, and myself. ~ Photo courtesy Thane Doremire

MSU Extension offers online course on inland lakes MSU Extension is offering its Introduction to Lakes course online.

It is a nationally recognized awardwinning program offered yearly by MSU Extension.

The 2021 course runs January 19 to March 26 and is designed for anyone interested in inland lakes, including lakefront property owners and professionals.

Course topics include lake ecology, watershed management, shoreline protection, Michigan water

law, aquatic plants, and community engagement. The six-week course is made up of video lectures, interactive activities, discussion forums and live chat sessions with MSU Extension educators and experts from outside organizations.

Registration is open now through January 14, 2021. To learn more, visit the Introduction to Lakes website: canr.msu.edu/introduction_to_lakes_ online/index

Sudoku sponsored by:

Sudoku

The cloudless morning sky was a beautiful bright blue hue, and little did I know what surprises awaited me for the remainder of the day. As Paul Harvey said, “And now, for the rest of the story.”

One day, as my wife, son, and I were enjoying a morning breakfast at a local restaurant, an aged man entered and appeared a hollow shadow of the man he once was. As he sat down and began to converse with his wife and the waitress, one could observe that even though life had bent his back and gnarled his hands, his spirit remained undaunted.

Shortly afterward, we departed and traveled to a local supermarket.

Upon exiting the building, lo and behold, there stood the same man, shoring himself up against his vehicle (I assumed in a weakened state), waiting for his wife to return from shopping.

I questioned him if he enjoyed his breakfast, and his face broke with a big smile and a huge response of “Yes!” He then began to reveal some of his innermost feelings to me, a perfect stranger. I found out that he had lived in Escanaba until the 9th grade, when his father was transferred downstate. This transfer did not sit well with him, as he loved the Escanaba area and did not want to leave his extended family there.

An option for him to stay and live with another family could have been a possibility, but insecurity and immaturity prevailed, and he

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UpNorthVoice.com

joined his family downstate. The conversation continued, reminiscing about the wonderful early years spent in Escanaba and the surrounding area (and the UP in general). He specifically focused on how good the people were, and the positive values (faith, family, and friends) that were instilled in the youth. Another thing that drove his passion for the Upper Peninsula was the vast natural beauty.

He emphasized various sites around the region, such as the Porcupine Mountains (nestled alongside one of the Great Lakes) and the numerous waterfalls.

As he looked straight into our eyes, he stated the primary reason that he returned was, and I quote, “I came back to say goodbye.” These words resonated with me, impressing on me how much that I have taken for granted, living in the Upper Peninsula and northern Midwest.

So, this month, as we gather to give God thanks, let us not forget to include in our prayers the men and women who have sacrificed for us so that we may enjoy our cherished freedoms and the way of life in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.

Hale Varsity Cross Country beat personal records

By Chloe Bernard HALE - The Hale Varsity Cross Country season went very well overall. The team was made up of nine freshmen and one sophomore.

Each runner did great throughout the season. Each of them took time off of their personal record. The team finished second in the league by the end of the season.

Freshman Alex Wanty finished 27th in the state as a D4 runner. He’s been named the fastest freshman in the state.

“The team ran very well. They worked very hard to accomplish what we accomplished,” said Coach Bradley.

His goal for the following season is to get each of the kids to run in the summer to get some miles in before running in the fall. He would also like for the team to qualify for state’s as a team.

The team’s improvements are as follows: Kayla Wolanin had a personal record of 27:11.2. Skyler Short had a personal best of 23:26.4.

Deon’tae Hence had a personal record of 31:27.0. Aiden Egresics improved by 6:14 (best time: 34:30.7). Zander Johnson improved by 6:00 (best time: 23:31.5). Eddie LaVere improved by 1:41 (best time 18:22.7). Brady Mccadie improved by 1:29 (best time: 22:49.2). Lawrence Mullins improved by 5:22 (best time: 28:18.5). Reece Ready improved by 9:36 (best time: 27:27.3). He improved the most out of his team. Alex Wanty improved by 1:04 (best time: 16:52.9). Dalton Jaremba improved by 2:04 (best time: 21:12.3).

He holds the spot for the only sophomore on the team.

Above: The Hale Cross Country team after the race at Sheppard.

Left: Alex Wanty showing off his medal from states.

UpNorthVoice.com

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Crawford COA December events

CRAWFORD COUNTY - The Crawford County Commission on Aging (CCCOA) has published its December events: The CCCOA is partnering with the Community Foundation of Northeast Michigan to raise money for Crawford County Meals on Wheels this Giving Tuesday. For 24 hours on Tuesday, Dec. 1 they are asking all donations to be made online (if possible) at cfnem.org.

Click on the Commission on Aging logo to donate to Crawford County Meals on Wheels. 100% of your donation given in support of the Commission on Aging will help provide food to homebound seniors in Crawford County. This year at the Commission on Aging a record number of meals were delivered and no one is EVER turned away from Meals on Wheels because of an inability to make a donation.

The monthly online Introduction to Zoom class is on Wednesday, Dec. 16 from 12–1:30 p.m. Walk through how to register for classes, log on, and use Zoom so you can take classes online. Try out Zoom and play with its features while someone is available to talk you through any challenges. You can join in using a laptop or desktop computer, tablet,

Want to keep our traditions?

Give two hours per month.

iPad, or smartphone. A call-in phone number is also available through Zoom, which functions like a conference call. Registration is required.

The community is invited to the CCCOA Curbside Christmas Luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 17 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. On the menu will be Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy, Midori Blend Vegetables, Pistachio Fluff Salad, Dinner Roll, and Cherry Pie. RSVP before the luncheon. The luncheon will feature a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus along with an Ugly Sweater contest. The cost of the dinner is $6.00 for those under 60 and a suggested donation of $3.50 for those 60 years of age or older.

You are invited to play bingo via Zoom with them on Friday, Dec. 18 at 12 p.m. Sign up by emailing Kaitlyn at kgrieb@crawfordcoa. org. The Zoom link for the game along with your bingo cards will be provided to you! Bingo cards can be printed or used on the computer.

Join the CCCOA on Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 10 a.m. via Zoom for a presentation that will help demystify the issues surrounding Medicare.

Tammy Findlay, Advocacy & Resource Coordinator, will discuss the various parts of Medicare including what is covered or not covered, Medicare Supplement and Prescription Drug Plans, and how Medicare recipients who have low income can get assistance paying for Prescription Drug Plans and the Medicare Part B premium.

The CCCOA has many medical items including walkers, canes, and more available for free for adults ages 60 and over. All supplies are first come, first served.

To RSVP or for more information on any program, call 989-348-7123.

cavalry doesn’t appear to be coming.

He asked what has changed in Across recent years that younger citizens County or families no longer participate in Lines these organizations at the same level as in the past. I explained that young people today are not necessarily

By Mark “joiners” in the traditional sense, and Constance used youth participation in Relay for Life as an example. Hundreds of The Christmas and Thanksgiving kids turn out for Relay, because they Holidays are times of year that many are asked to help. They are included of our civic organizations, such as and feel their efforts are tangible and the Lions, Rotary, Kiwanis, the Mio worthwhile.

Dummy Club, Zonta, and others, step What does this downward trend to the forefront of helping those in mean for the future role of civic need, whether it is for toys, clothes organizations in our communities. or food baskets for needy families.

As the state and federal government But in many ways, cuts its financial these organizations are contributions to in need themselves: In "We shouldn’t those in need, we need of new members. be surprised are relying more A recent and more on these when some conversation with nonprofit charitable, of these an older community fraternal and/or service member prompted me organizations organizations to fill the to look at the way we gaps. We are needed close" volunteer, as well as more now than ever. the declining number There are some of volunteers in bright spots. Zonta appears to be traditional service organizations. the one of the few organizations He said he's been a member of the that has a growing membership. community for more than 30 years Although comprised mostly of and is active in a number fraternal women, the group uses outreach and service organizations, He noted programs in the schools, scholarship that the decrease in the participation programs and especially social media and involvement in local civic groups to communicate with the younger is going to prove detrimental to the generations. community if the trend of decreasing It appears to be working and can enrollment is not reversed. be a template for other organizations Honestly, we all take these types going forward if these groups are of organizations for granted. After willing to embrace the way the all, many of them have traditionally younger generation communicates. supported Scouts, little league, class That may require different types of trips, gifts for families in need and meetings much more.

Commitment to “family first” is Many of these organizations are recognized by all of our fraternal/ facing these challenges as the age of veterans/service organizations. But the “volunteers” creep up in their 70s all this gentleman and many others and 80s while they wait for younger like him are asking is that people members to join their ranks. But the donate two hours each month.

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December 2020

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Holly Holm selected for state honor

LANSING – For their dedication know their meals were made by a to their schools and communities, friendly and caring person every day.

Dawn Hendges of Western School Holm is an administrative District in Jackson County, and Holly assistant with the COOR ISD Holm of Crawford-Oscoda-Ogemaw- in Roscommon, where she has Roscommon Intermediate School worked for 17 years and has had a District (COOR ISD) have been tremendous impact on students and named Michigan’s 2020 Education her colleagues alike. District leaders Support Staff Professionals of the say Holm is the rock of the ISD by Year. treating students and staff with the As Michigan’s 2020 Education utmost respect, and she is the center Support Staff Professionals of the of the systems that keep the schools Year, Hendges and Holm are now running seamlessly. Her co-workers eligible for the national Recognizing describe her as being the ear to listen Inspiring School Employees (RISE) when it’s been a rough day and the Award, which is overseen by the U.S. smile behind the reassurance to carry Department of Education. This is a on with your day. new, national award created to honor “It takes an entire school school support staff. community to help our children “Every day, Michigan’s achieve their full potential,” said dedicated educational State Superintendent Dr. support staff like Dawn Michael F. Rice. “We are and Holly work hard so grateful for Dawn to ensure our kids and Holly and the have the support tens of thousands they need at of other talented school,” said education support Governor Gretchen staff professionals Whitmer. “And in our Michigan now, as Michigan schools who work continues to fight tirelessly each day the COVID-19 to meet the needs of pandemic and as our students.” our kids return to As part of its in-person learning, our ongoing commitment to support staff are critical highlighting and recognizing Holly Holm in keeping them safe. As a the contributions of individuals mom whose daughters grew up in across the state who go above Michigan’s public schools, I want and beyond for their students, the to personally thank all of those who Michigan Department of Education have dedicated their lives to our kids. is proud to partner with the American Congratulations to our awardees!”

Federation of Teachers-Michigan, Hendges is a food and nutrition the Michigan Education Association, service worker at Parma Elementary and the American Federation School in the Western School of State, County and Municipal District, where she has worked for 20 Employees Council 25 to offer Years. Her district leaders explained this award. Each awardee receives that during this unprecedented $1,000 in recognition of their time of the pandemic, Hendges accomplishments. has gone above and beyond for For more information about the students, ensuring they have highEducation Support Staff Professional quality nutritious meals every day of the Year award, visit the program and promoting the location of food webpage or e-mail Jennifer Robel at distribution centers in the district so RobelJ@Michigan.gov. no student went hungry. The students

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December 2020

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SIGN GRADS – These women just completed 16 weeks of American Sign Language (ASL) classes conducted by Andrea Gregory of West Branch. Pictured (l-r) are Marcie McClellan, Angie Cook, Riley Sabins and Kathy Winkelmann.

The next set of classes will be a "Family class (for parents & kids together),” plus a "regular adult basic class", and an "advanced 1 adult class," for those whom have already completed the first eight weeks of basic ASL. The next classes will begin in January. For information call or text Andrea at 989-808-3967 or sent her a note on Facebook messenger.

Sudoku Answer PATRIDGE HUNTING - We count at least eight partridge between these two lads. That’s a season limit today.

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UpNorthVoice.com

Merry Christmas

Letters to Santa • 2020 Grayling Elementary School EDITOR'S NOTE: Our annual Santa Letters section has been extremely popular over the past decade. We love going through the letters and drawings, bringing you a taste of Christmas Spirit, as seen through the eyes of the children in our community.

Due to extenuating circumstances this year, including COVID-19, letters were difficult to pull together, despite the best efforts of the schools. We can’t bring you all the letters we normally do, but we hope you enjoy the ones that were submitted.

Merry Christmas from the staff of Up North Voice.

- Mark & Tracy Constance Dear Santa, I wub wut a Tiplene in a cetee nusheen in for my sistr snee wust a cishin in I wut a le Prel Thank you, Emerson Dear Santa I wud like a BOOK Plez and a marikin grl dol and I wot my Famey to hath a gud crismis and a I wot a gud crismis day and thank you Maddie

Dear Santa ver gas and I wut a the Hods Thank, Jaxson Dear Santa can you gev me a Pupey pes5 can I have a new Lego set Jussic word can i have a thing that play 5 jussic word evlosin thank you, Torin dear santa xoxoxoxo I wd♥♥ples like a Endrman stupml I wd ples like a endorman Lego Iwd roblox boxes thank you, xo xo xo xo Talon Dear sate I wont a LoL hik van ples I wont mor BaBy ulivse and close and food thak you, Jocelyn Dear Santa, can I Have a trmpling. can I have a iglow for crismis. can I have a fone for crismis . can I have a fort for crismis. can I have one thousin dols. thank you I hop you have a god crismis santa.

Love, Flynn

Dear Santa, I wat rer ras kan bat I wat adralked ples I wat a na swing set ples I wat a rand swing ples thac ya, Jase Dear Santa plees can I hav voset yellow. robos the I jist bake plees thank you, Anderson

Hornbaker, 1st Grade

Dear Santa I would like trueky and trailors please. A toy boat. nerf guns with darts. rope for my cat I love you santa.

Luve, James.

Deer santa I hav ben a goo boy this yeer. I help with my babee bruthr I wood lick a pokeemon plushee love, Sebastian Santa I wont rabokorn presint pets freal no name

Der Santu, For chrismis I want a leeo set, Fornchrismis I wast cumt com poobr For chrismis I wat a fornit b Lacit thintuooc cant wat to mac you coces luv, Aaron

Dur Santa I believe yuoare reel buy some kibs do x but I do from, Greyson

I wat a PuP and a Teser and a candl and a Fon and a cat and a hot weel♥♥ Mkenzie

Dear Santa, I wont a sufd anuml of chotuzod for crisms.

From, Mason

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December 2020

Mrs O'Rourke's Dear Santa I want a ps5 for Christmas and I want money, and my freind said your a good guy and you are. his name is anthony I all so want for christmas love, Connor♥ Dear santa I hope you give me a robelox sett owe and how is my elf doing I am bilding a nowe hows Love, Logan Dear Santa, hawe are you doing happy novembir, so lets tack about crismis so cod I have a Hot Weels City and a foue transfomers and a crismis mirickl to git rid of Covid 19.

Love, David

UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

Dear Santa, My I plz have a wi-fi box, a bluetooth, and a new beter tablet for Christmas?

Sincerely, Brody Dear Santa, I wus a good girl this year and I rile wont, a cute drees, makeup, wite, lite pripl Pelows with a wite blakit, and a dog a PuPy and the PuPy that I wont is a grimin seperd. and. Pleas make my famlys, frends wishes to come trow Love, Marialda Dear Santa, Hope you are having a good time in the North pole.

What I want for Christmas is that all my familys wishes will come true.

Itspeshliy my sister Sawyers wishes to come true.

Tell Charlie I miss him very much.

Lots of ℒove, ♥ℳɑɖɩȴɣɲɳ♥

Dear santa Kunchre gtrye are wunetoow a grav digr k cholde by a mokchol a Play este Pdek Cooper Dear Santa, can I Please have some new chapter books, so clothing for dolls, a husky toy, and a robot dog. I hope you have a wounderful Christmas.

Sincerely, Elliana Dear santa my frineds dont bileve that your real and i DO ther names aer conner called you fat and what I want for Christmas is a xbox series x from your frined, Anthony Dear Santa I want a guietar, nintedoe switch, bie bie gun, new games for my PS4 I want call uf dudy modern worfar I Promis I will be good the most thing I want is for my dad to be home on chrismis thast the most thig I want.

From, Trevor Dear santa I Want forninig and the best life evey. And my frend say that you are the best thing ever. I dont think you are the best. and money and a cat headfouns. And my mom to have the best life.

Love, Marlee

dear Sant can I have a cr car plese frum your frend, Cody dear Sant I hope you Have a grate Christmas.

No Name

Dear Sant I would Like a LoL doll for christmas♥ Love, Aubrey To Santa Thank you for being So giving and I am so grateful that you can do that if you weren't here my life would be different without you From: Cali Dear Santa I realy want a kitten but my dad wont let me get one so I decided I want a feareal cat Pleas Pleas write me back the one that is the one you pick. or the one you need mery chrismas thank you, Mirah

to santa I want a lot of bun LoL dalls. bun LoL dall Plese.

From, Paityn I hope my mommy has a good christmis merry christmas No name

Dear santa thak you for rlue the theing you do for us we Preshawadit hase ben uluing time you ben handing out gift... ho ho ho No name deyr sati I wot slippers.

No name

Mrs. Holmes 2nd Grade Dear Santa.

I want poopsee slime. and the poopsee doll set. and big borbee doll set from efree prenses moofee.

Brooke

Dear santa I wunt a tay for merry chrismis I wont a real PuPy Pleas and a real Brody his is nice and funny will never you blevit sinicrely, TJ

Dear santa I would like a wach Plese and I would like a iPhone ɪɪ pro max Plese. And a barbie dream house.

Madison♥

Dear Santa, How are you doing I am doing good. I miss you and Daisy but you and Daisy are coming soon. I want to tell you a little about my self. 1. I like Dog's and Cat's. 2. I Love Gift's.

3. I Love my family. Their are some thing's about my self.

Love: Grace

dear Santa, what does the north pole look like? do you help the elfs or do the elfs help you? what I want for christmas is some Pokemon cards, some craft supplies, a stuffed animal(any kind) and I don't know what else from: Ruby

Mrs. Boik, 2nd Grade To Santa can you giving me sum toys whut I men By toys some robos For my FamLe and my cusins and givme sum FamLe tim Greyson

Dear Santa, I want for christmas is a barbe sion and a brabe arel casl and a babe hosbitl car santa, what do you look like your frend Melody

UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

December 2020

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Dear santa hoge me! Love me! I ♥ you! Good kid! axtra toys Plese. rod of the red noseratr!

Eleanorder der Santa I wish I can see you how is it doing at the north poll and how is the elfs and can yor elf mack me a tou forweler two narf Guns and a globwith you riding yor slay my name is Easton Der, Santa christmas I wunt a xbox and a sloth not the babby toy and a babby yoda and adey and a pet sloth and a pet puppy and a new bedand a joy and a new rmot and a hedphone and a phone Genevieve

Dear Santa Plese Liv me a lot of givs ples give me dinusors tons.

Carter Dear Santa, how are you Doing? What are your Elfs cald? can you get a har kite for me and some tothpast Because I ran out of tothpast.

Love Kenzie Dear Santa, I want a robot uncorn my dog skye she is a good dog.

Lilly Dear santa I wont a barbey toy and a toy dinowsor Greyson

Dear Santa I wont a note pad raboy niat liat a direr Page Dear Santa wut is your name, hou are your elfs dooing,Christmas list Poopsy slime surpris, huver dord, fit bit, har car ler, LoL stuff, barby dall house, books, puzzl, My name Jaelynn I wunt a scatbrd but my mom is mooving. I hop that it is a good crismis and my famle Matt Dear Santa for chrismas I want a wand and a doll. I lave chrsmas so much santa. I love sending notes but I love the best getting presents.

Brooklynn

Kami Boik Dear Santa, my name is lillian I l♥ve to spend time with my dad but he works an hour away from home and gets home late. So can you pleaas get him a new job closer to home, so I can spend more time with him.

With l♥ve, Lillian Dear Santa Troambly on can please I have a puppie and the magnet blocks I love my family and please that face hugger alein mask a go pro my name is Lincoln Dear Santas, I love to plae with nodle because he is funny, and I wode lick to have dolpnin, and I'll be good With loves, Alivia Dear Santa my name is CJ Dixon I want Lego-sets so I can play with them in my nanas and papa house and I wanta xbox 1 cingtrler and xbox 1 and I want have a dog. I am going to be good.

From CJ Dear Santa my name is Ryan i want more Nerf guns and more nrif Bullis so i can Shoot my my dad and mom and more pizza Ryan

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December 2020

UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

Dear Santa my name is Tyler Battistella I would love a pet goldfish and a remate conckhreld modersicel.

Tyler Dear Santa my name is Blaise Molalson I love spending time with my dog I would love a furreal Ricky so I can spend time with another dog with love, Blaise Dear santa, My name is Mackenzie I wode like sum now pants ples I will be good.

Mackenzie Dear Santa My name is Layanna Bowen I wat a iphan be. Uku I can play it I what a paayto play with it Dear Santa I wote a Flipe I and a remot cotrl jep asl vido Gamse. Lite inutdo swich remot cotle mostr trak a drte bik tablit a baby puppe my name is A.J. Deeer Sata, My naom is Zane I love my famye I wont Bochoagons for cismis. with love, za.ne Dear Santa, I wont a pupe I wood name him Kops, mason Dear Santa, my name is Jared Dennisan i wud Llik a nrf gun 20. i wud Llik sum meg anrfdrs 40 so me and mi druthrs kan hav an rf war ps uor sakool

by Jared Dear Santa, My name is Teagan I love to play with my mom. I would love a stufft dog so I can snuggl it at night.

With love, Teagan Dear Santa, My name is Emily Verbraggen.

I love to do flips. flip and play with jared. I would love a mine bick that is all black.

Love. Emily

Mrs. Hatfield 2nd Grade Hi Santa I am so exsited for Christmas I am going to tell you what I want for christmas a puppy and a rilalistic stuft animul cat. and a miny skrnfulove a new phone and a charger with it and a harry potter wand and a moonston a new ordament christmas list from Zelda

Dear Santa can I hav a plushe dog that is in a hot dog bun and a lot ur oshin toes and sum Fortnit tosand sum Amugus tos If you hav ane toko cats? and mebe sam plastashon 5? frum, Broden

Dear Santa Claus, This year in December 26 is my birthday. can you pleas make a horse? Pleas and Some oil for my uncl? becuse I used it and my puppy food so my dog can have cumpuny?.

Love, Ciara

dear Santa.

Can I pleaase have some sower pach kid canoe canes? And some Stuft animols. Baby alive a super nentendo sume little critter cooks a real life kitten the cande play do set a sleep alarm please.

Evelyn

Dear Santa Claus This year for Christmas I want a drone with a camera and a kens frone and a alive pupey dog plees Can it be a jermen sheped and a ships mayd awtuv legows and a toi grislley.

Rexford

Dear Santa Claus, This year for Christmas I wud lice you to plese give me a rele 1 year old puppy wif wut hase a uoonicorn fase on it plees, and a uoonucorn wotr bootl. thanc you, Stephanie

Dear Santa Claus, this year for Christmas I will have for christmas can I have elaos slim and can I have a One yer old pupey and can I have a toe caer Please and Victoria

Dear Santa, This year for Christmas could you please git me a merau tall. And could you please git me a real puppy for me. And could you please git me a Plusl.

Leia

Dear Santa Claus.

This year for christmas I rile wont a auge for christmas ales. and what are you doing what are yor efls doing.

Bradlee

Dear santa, for christmas I voud like a kurt busch toy 1:64 scale car kyle buschcars and a 2001 Dale Earnhardt 1:24 scale car, a toy train and powerwheels GT mustang. Tell the elfs they are doing awsome!

They are some hardworking! Merry christmas santa and elfs.

Love, Liam

Dear Santa Claus, for christmas I want a long bord please can I have a travers city tsirt size 7 please a fit bit please can I please have a lego cop city Ryder Dear Santa, Hi Santa! Here are 3 things I want for Christmas: 1. Harry Potter lego set 2. captin underpants 3.Harry Potter Book Sincerly, Finn M. Dere Santa Claus will you git me my oune dall hous for my barbeys. that I dont evin hav and a desk my olld desk is gon I need that for my home work and will you git me my oun hows to hav in the bak sard seekrls so we will hav ulon time to gether. And plees will you git me a buch of makup at my moms so thin I kuod hav a makup chayinj.

Sherryellen

Dear Santa Claus, this year for Christmas I wot. Can I ples have a bobes dol. Can I ples have a megiling. Can I ples have a baby dol. Can I ples have a home.

Can I pleasehave a set fool the bobes dol.

Lilya

Dear Santa, For Christmas I would like a mermaid tale what is pink. Please please please.

Aubrey Dear Santa, May you please bring me my very own drawing set. With oil pastels, and colerd paper, And white sheets too. If you can I would like a toy werewolf with white fur and it is a baby, and it walks. Thank you♼ Hazel E.

Dear Santa Claus, this year for christmas I waut a remote cuntrool car and a hegog baseball, I waut a starwars Lago set.

I waut sum oil pagtels and a calering book and a fishing rod. If you didnt hav every toy in the wroold what toy wood you waut?

Braxin

UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

Dear Santa Claus' This christmas can I have a toy cariJ. is roodoff the best randeer?

Did the ibomunl Snow monstr igsist? your hoLLu day is the best hoLLu day! Cus you Get toys it it as simpl as that. I wont to Get out my christmas tree bet mom ses NO! Penelope

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Dere Mr'clus I want a intendo swich plese.i have ben nise. I need close Plese. I want a drtbike.

Ms. Berkshire 3rd Grade Dear Santa, I got a Viking Victory at lunch today for not messing around in the hall! But I had to stay in for recess Because I was passing notes:( I'm so sorry you can put me on the crule list:( It's ok. Anyways, hows Mrs claus been? How have you been?

This I the list for my gifts: Slime Phone airpods x-mas mug fussy socks puddy Love Maya Seeley Dear Santa I have ben great this year and my whish list I want a 5 week old golden retrever. I help my mom whith my baby bother and mowe the lawn and help whith the dishes and some times clean up after my self.

Love Noah Sheets Dear Santa.

I've been nice so I an going to teel you what I did to be nice I cleaned my room I did the dishes and I cleaned the living room t I got $5 out of it.

Trystan dear Santa' I ben giting viking victory at school because I was being fantastic in the lunchroon. Have I ben being fantastic. for Chrissmass I want a skooter and clos. When are elfs going to come.

Love Serenity Der santas I have ben kinde This yare because I help't my dad dow the dishis and dow the londrey ples can you get my DAD a Drill bite Thies yare He lost 1 of his Bite's He was vare made and can you get my brother a drill. and and my stepy mom a krling iern. and will you get me a sise 13 kids hie hels and a now breese and tits and LOL dolls #10 you are the best so peple say you are but you not.

Love Lexus

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UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

Dear santa claus, I have been nice and naughty if i'm lucky for chrismas can I get a cat so I can snuggle him and have a litter box for him and a toy like a laser and a toy stick atached to a feather No name Dear Santa I have ben grat this yearbecause I have it vicing victorys and I help clean for Chrimas I wont just a glaceon plush.

Love, Payton Dear santa I have been nice this year I've been nice in class Im nice to my parents. have a fatastic christmas.

Love, Landyn Stolde Dear Sant Nick I'm 100% nice I do help around the house I let the puppy out I know you probly can't do it but I dont wan't Presents I wan't to have aleast 4 weeks with my Dad please!

Sencirely, Noah B. Dear santa I've been very good I hope you are well! How are the raindeer?

For chistmas I would like a nitendo switch, nerf gun, xbox, Play Station, mine craft DVD, sincerely, Gurman Dear Santa, I've been very good I hope you are well! For christmaas I would like 1. Ipod 2. unspekibl mrch 3. a grl alf an a shalf Sincerely, Emily Grosser Dear santa, I hope you are doing good? What I would like mincraft lego's Nitendo switch, punching Bag. Sincerely, Max Dear Santa, how are you dooei. This yer how is shawe dooing. I ben a good gri this yer how are yor waders dooing. I wood Lak a LoL hos and a TV and a cid for crismus. And a fon Love, Braclyn.

Dear santa ive been very good I hope you are well! How are the reindeer? For chiristmas I would like a I Phoná´ľá´ľ prow max, pupy and a play Stashin 4!

Sincerely, Eli Lewickisi

Dear Santa, I've Been very good. how are the rain Deer. For chrismas I wold like, uhspekbel merch, are matco trol police car, and preston merch Senserly, Easton Dear Santa, I've been very good I hope you are well How are the reindeer for christmas I would like a tory uouncorn and a JoJo sawo Brikit and a JoJo sawo crin.

Sincerely, Rylee Dear Santa, I've been very good at school I goot frotnit. Wat I wont to hav crash dandkud.-x dox. I wont to hav a vr. and last yau can make. frum, Mason H. Dear santa, how is all the elves doing in the shop for christmas I would like a wee game that is cald cush of revaloshin 3 and a normal shotgun and and evrree rodita Sincerely, Jackson Dear Santa, I've been very good. I hope you are well! How are the reindeer?

For Christmas I would like Roblox merch, minecraft legos, computer.

Sincerely, D'Leh Dear Santa, I've been good. Hope you are well todaye Santa. I did want a micraf gam and a toy mase tats a cude with blls sinerely, Adam Dear Santa, How are the reindeer For Christmas I wot a tow barbe bade.

Sincerely, Anna Dear Santa, I've been okay I can sometimes get of trak. I try to do my best. for christmas I would like. a.nintendo swich. A remote controld Lizard. And a new bike.

Sincerely, Noble

Dear Santa, I've been a good gril oh and how are the elvefs and randeer, for Christas I would like what evar I get for Christmas.

Sincerely, Laney Ive been very good I hope you are well! How are the reindee? For a BaBe aliv rgo Bo che chexs shonc sime Brbe closit.

Sincerely, Mae Dear santa I've ben very well I hope you are well h w unet nenedo for christmas I sincerely, Delilan Dear Santa, I've been very good I hop you are well! How are the rindeer for Christmas I wold like a phone that is blue with a charger a nerf gun sincerely, Zander

Dear Sahta I hope you have a great chirmas.

The tree thing I want are a Xbox 1 because me and my want to play fornite, 2 re gas powerd truck because we want to drive theme in winley I want a cable with my family on it. Please santa wear your mask for you can stay save.

Love, Joshua

Dear Santa you have a magicil wondufull year. Three things I would like for Christmas are a New pc windows because we do not have enugh for everyone and a new minecraft disc because mt old one broke and I need a new one and a PS2 because my moms sister had one. from your frend, Michael

Dear Santa Claus, I ben so nice. I'm pritreshe I got a p viking victory.

Love, Mason V

••• Dear Santa how are you dooing, good? Three things I wold like for crismas are: a lego star wars armed asalt tank, Genral Greveses star fiter, and Anckin star fiter. First I wold like a armed asalt tank because I atlest want to take cair of stuf. Secent of all I wold like Genlal gerefeses star fiter because mine brock. Finly I wold lik anckins star fiter because I want to have a battle.

Sinserly, Jack Dear Santa I hope you had a Magical year I have missed your spirit!

Three things I would like for christmas are, a puppy, a x box one, and a Molly lou melon book. First I would like a puppy because I think thay are so cute love, Anna♥

UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

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dear santa I hope you hada a magical year. Three things I would like for chrismas are a stuffed meremaid, a lily to the Resceu book, fairy garden aseseerys. First I would like a mermaid because I like to tell my self storys. Secend I would like a Lily to the Resce book because I enjoy reading them. Third I would like fairy gardin aseseerys because the fairys like to stay some wer. I hope to see you soon.

Sincerely, Katy

Dear Santa I hope you have had a magical year. I have missed your spirit. Three things I want for christmas are a fishing rod, a 3 wheeler and a black tipped light saber. I wnt a fishing rod because fishing is fun. With a 3 wheeler, I can travel far in the woods.

And I love Star Wars and I would love to have a blacktipped light saber like the Sith Lord.

I hope the elves and reindeer are safe. I wish you safe Travels. Thank you for reading my letter.

Your friend, Marshall

dear santa I hope you have a fablis year and I hope I get it because I ben wating for it, I miss you santa. The three things I would Like is autin laptop, a tablit and a xdox1.Frst I wold like a xbox 1 because min got bernd down secint I wold like a tadit because my screen is brock Finlly I wold Like a chromBook because Dad Dosnt on the power Butin and wold not trne on. Thawk you for Reading my letter.

Love, Christian Dear Santa I hope the raindeer are Healthy even with the virrese. Three things I would like for christmas are a remote control race car, remote control helicoptor, and a remote boat. First I would like a remote control car because they can go really fast and my old one broke.

Secondly I would like a remote control helicoptor because my old one broke and I do remember they were a lot of fun. Finally I would like a remote control boat because I love remote control veacals and I'v herd they were verry fun. Thank you for reading my letter Sincerely, Bryce J. Dear Santa, I hope you are staing for crismis because your the best. three thing I would like for crismis is a PS5,gaming moniter and a compound bow. I wish for a PS5 because I will play it with my friend.

Second I wish I had a gaming moniter because I would use it a lot.

Finally I wish for a compound bow because I would shoot it a lot and go hunting.

Sincerely, Landyn Dear Santa, I hope you have a Holly Jolly chriamas and how is Rough?

The three things I would like a pooping flamingo, squeakee the balloon dog, and three really good dog bones. One puppy bone and two dog bones. I would like a pooping

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UpNorthVoice.com ~ Letters to Santa

flamingo because I think its funny.

I would like Squeakee because his loud squeak is funny. I would like three bones because my dogs and puppy. I hope to see you soon!

Sincerely, Kennedym Dear Santa I hope you'r have a wonderful year so far. Three things I would like for christmas are a nintendo swich, and some sashes, a amaircan girl doll and her name is julie. I would like a nintendo swich because they seem fun and I can play with my mom on it. Second I would like a Amairacan girl doll because all of my cuzins have them and I fell left out. I will see you soon!

Love, Peyton Dear Santa, I hope you have has a magical year. I have missed your spirit! things I would like for chiristmas this year are a harly Qin Bribie doll, and a cat woman bribie dol, and finly I would like is a poisin ivy Bribie doll, and a cat woman Bribie doll, and finly I would like is a poisin ivy Bcat woman remines me of my casin,finly I would like a posin ivy Bribie doll, I would like a harly Qin Bribie doll Beacuse Harly Qin is my marvl charaict secif I would like a cat woman Bribie Doll Becuse it is a gift to my cosin paige.

Sunserly, Parker Dear Santa I hope you have had a magical year. I have missed your spirit!

Three things I would like for christmas are a pc a gaming monitor and an Iphone 12. I would like the pc because my old pc Brock and I cant play on iy noe. I want the gameing moder becouse myn is not wucing I want a I phone 12 because I have want it forever.

Yore dear frend, Alex