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Up North
Voice Vol. 15, Issue 6
Summer season kicks off
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June 2024
Summerfest and Kirtland’s Warbler weekend events
ROSCOMMON- A celebration of Kirtland's Warbler will take place Fri., May 31 at the Marguerite Gahagan Nature Preserve, 585 Southline Rd. and continue to Sat., June 1, in downtown Roscommon at the CRAF Center, 606 Lake Street. The event coincides with Summerfest, a fun event for the whole family. The Friday Home Opener events include: • 8-10 a.m. - Bird Banding Demonstration • 5 p.m.- Wine and beer tasting with appetizers • 5- 7 p.m. - Scavenger hunt • 7- 8 p.m. - Keynote Speaker Kaitlyn Kelly on the Fight for ▪ See SUMMER EVENTS on page 3
IN THIS ISSUE: Eagle Voice – 2,5
Out and About – 4 Tawas lighthouse – 10 West Branch Ham - 14 Grayling forest trail – 15 YOUNG MUSICIANS SERENADE COMMUNITY- Sisters Gracie Rae (guitar) and Jubilee (violin) Nelkie play before friends and family at United Methodist Church concert. See story and photos on page 21. ~ Photo by Kristi Major
Local sports pics – 16 Hale Legion – 21 Rosco rotary – 25
From city lights to the quiet country Lavender farm opening in Rosco County
During the Covid Pandemic, Michelle Anschuetz and her husband Christian, decided to forgo the Chicago lifestyle and adapt to rural living in the Grayling area. The couple has turned their 200acre property into “The Uncommon Ranch,” featuring vacation rentals, lavender fields, and so much more. Amongst the property, visitors will be able to pick their own lavender, tour the barn, get tips on fertilizing and gardening, and even hike the trails hidden away at this beautiful farm. Michelle is cultivating her lavender for essential oils, coffee blends, soaps, and of course, delicious lemon lavender cookies.
The ranch currently supplies restaurants in Grayling and Roscommon with natural herbs as well. They are currently in the works of building chicken coops, an apple orchard, and soon, bees. The couple also plans to open a store next year as well as building perennial gardens. The idea has crossed their minds to make the property a wedding venue. The possibilities are endless. “People think we’re crazy, but we love the community and want people to experience this life,” Michelle said. “Teaching our neighbors about sustainable living and how to ▪ See LAVENDER FARM on page 3
Christian and Michelle Anschuetz, co-owners of Uncommon Ranch, stand near an artisan copper still used to distill their lavender essential oils and hydrosol.