Thank You for Your Business

Northwest Michigan the good news FREE! VoiceServing Kalkaska County and the surrounding area

Calendar 3 Sports 9 Out & About 2 Obituaries 4 Since 2014 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Thank you for your business By Tina Norris Fields There are two ceremonial awards given out Yes, this event is a “thank you” from the busi- The business owners of Clearwater Township in this solemn celebration; one is in memory ness owners to the community, but it is also an sincerely mean it when they say “Thank you of someone we lost during the year, and the example of ordinary people coming together for your business,” and they demonstrate that other is in honor of a citizen doing something to create an extraordinary civic event, in the sincerity every summer on the second Satur- worthy. great tradition of grassroots leadership. day of July, when they throw a whopping big Attractions at this year’s event featured a vol- community picnic party. leyball tournament, and several other games Saturday, July 8, 2017, was the 15th Annual for the kids, pony rides provided by the Community BBQ – the “Clearwater Township Kalkaska Rocking Horse Arena, and music Community Wild Game Pig Roast Picnic,” by the Straight Forward Bluegrass Band. Tom dedicated to the memory of Frank Brant, who Tucker organized the kids’ entertainment. lost his life last year in a house fire. The Young Marines volunteered to help serve, This event began back in 2002 with the inspi- beginning the celebration with a solemn flag- ration of Brian Ferrari and Stuart McKinnon, raising ceremony. In this community, the flag to help fill the void left in the civic life of the of the United States of America is revered. community after the demise of the township’s Heritage Festival. Over time, it has grown to become the joyous day-long celebration it is, with support this year from over 100 businesses and individuals from the surrounding area - encompassing Alden, Bellaire, Elk Rap- ids, Kalkaska, Kewadin, Mancelona, Rapid City, Torch River and Traverse City. This year, the event has a new venue. The A gigantic cast-iron pot cooking beans over an Walker family property, just north of Rapid open fire, to feed the crowd City, that had been very graciously donated for use in years past, has been sold and is no longer available. Bill Zirkle stepped forward and donated the use of his property, just south of the Clearwater Township Heritage Park and Athletic Complex. Bill’s generosity led the event leadership to name him the 2017 Citi- Brandon Creighton, placing a flag atop one zen of the Year. He was surprised and pleased, of the several tents decorated for the day, and said “Ma (Shirley Zirkle) comes every in the nation's colors year and she wanted to come this year, so she said I had to donate the space.” Bill says he does what Ma says. Zack Zirkle, agreed, and There was a flag flying from almost every said “She’s the matriarch of the family.” tent positioned for the event. Stuart McKin- non told this reporter that the flag-raising ceremony is done with a new flag every year and after the event that flag is given to some worthy organization. Last year, the flag was one that had flown over the Michigan State Capitol, secured for our fête by Represen- Two of the many volunteers, Ralph Kingsley and tative Rendon; after the event, the flag was Susie Amidon, serving up pulled pork. presented to the Young Marines as a “thank you” for their support of this community celebration. Let us not forget about the food! The menu included pulled pork, both barbecued and plain, dinner rolls, beans, hot dogs, and lem- onade. Last year, well over 1,000 people attended. Cooking for 1,000 people, of course, you need lots of beans – say about 70 gallons worth! The beans are cooked over an open fire in the biggest old cast-iron pot you’ve ever seen. The pigs used are purchased from a local farmer, processed, cooked and prepared - and inspected by the health department. There are many volunteers who help to setup, Justin and Anna, playing and singing, while a game serve, and clean up – way too many to hope of bean-bag toss goes on behind them. to name them all. Bill Zirkle, 2017 Citizen of the Year

Next Issue of the Northwest MI Voice: August 4, 2017 Our mission is to inform and inspire Out & About

Editor’s note: This space is free to community organizations to promote events which are of benefit to the residents in and FARMERS' MARKETS around Kalkaska County. Mancelona Farmers' Market, Buck Email your information to Pole on the corner of Williams and E [email protected] or [email protected] State St, participates in the following programs: WIC Project Fresh, Senior Please include date and time of the event, a contact number or Project Fresh, SNAP/EBT, and begin- email address. ning July 1 Double Up Food Bucks, contact Bonnie Flynn 231-886-0416 Do not include prices. Kalkaska Farmers' Market, When: Thu, 3-7pm (May 18 - Oct 26) Railroad Square, downtown Kalkaska, Fife Lake Downtown Farmers' SENIOR & COMMUNITY MEALS applications accepted now, contact Market, 105 E State St, Fife Lake, Mike at 231-384-1027 applications accepted now, contact Senior Lunch (Grand Traverse COA) When: Tue, 2 - 6pm (May 23 - Oct 10) Fife Lake Library, 77 Lakecrest Ln, must Jenny at 231-879-3702 RSVP by Tuesday prior, 231-879-4101 Alden Farmers' Market, When: Sat, 9am-2pm (May 27-Oct 28) When: 1st & 3rd Wed, 12 noon (coffee Tennis Court Park, Alden hour at 11 am), When: Thu, 4-8pm (Jun 22 - Sep 28) Easy Meals Fundraiser for Ameri- can Legion, Dale H Wheeler American BINGO, CARDS & BOARD GAMES Legion Post 219, 10283 M-113, Fife Lake, , Kalkaska Eagles Aerie 4496, Senior Lunch (Kalkaska COA), Senior takeout available, contact 231-879-4475 Bingo 15854 M-72E, contact 989-348-8393 Center, 303 S. Coral St, no reserva- When: Thu, 5 - 7 pm tion required, contact 231-258-5030 When: Mon, warm ups at 5 pm, regu- When: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Senior Breakfast, (Kalkaska COA) lar game at 6 Senior Center, 303 S Coral St, Build-no res- 11:30 am for side salad, lunch at noon , CETA Hall, 6615 CR-612 NE, ervation required, contact 231-258-5030 Euchre contact 231-587-9475 Senior Lunch, Mancelona When: Fri, 8 - 9 am Senior Center, 122 E State St, When: Mon, 7 pm Pasties & Pot Pies For Sale, Coldsprings RSVP to Donna at 231-587-9131 , Alden Library, 8751 Excelsior Township Area (CETA) Hall, Mah-Jong When: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Helena Rd, Alden, all levels of skill 6615 County Rd 612, (to confirm dates 12 pm. welcome, contact 231-331-4318 and availability, call 231-258-9912) Pinochle, CETA Hall, 6615 When: Tue, 1 - 4 pm Senior Breakfast, (Kalkaska COA) When: Fri , 1 - 3 pm CR-612 NE, contact 231-587-9475 Senior Center, 303 S Coral St, no reser- Grange Bingo, Helena Twp Com- When: Wed, 6:30 pm Community Meal, Torch Lake vation required, contact 231-258-5030 munity Center, 8751 Helena Rd, Assembly of God, 9456 Valley Rd Euchre, Fife Lake Library, 77 Lake- When: Mon, 8 - 9 am Alden, contact Doris at 231-331-6033 NW, Rapid City, donations accepted, crest Lane, contact 231-879-4101 Senior Lunch (Kalkaska COA), contact Christine at 231-331-6246 When: Tue, 6 - 9 pm When: 1st & 3rd Wed, 11 am Bear Lake Township Hall, 198 E. When: Fri except holidays 10 am - 1 Euchre, (Kalkaska COA) Senior Center, , CETA Hall, 6615 CR-612 NE, Bear Lake Rd, RSVP between 8:30 Euchre pm 303 S. Coral St, contact 231-258-5030 contact 231-587-9475 and 9 am to Iola at 941-270-1549 When: 1st & 3rd Tue, 1 pm When: Thu, 7 pm When: Tue, Thu, 12 - 12:30 pm All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry, Dale H. Wheeler American Legion Jackpot Bingo, (Kalkaska COA) Senior Euchre, Kalkaska VFW Post 8684, Senior Lunch (Kalkaska COA), Post 219, 10283 M-113, Fife Center, 303 S Coral St, fundraiser for 408 Hyde St, contact 231-258-9757 South Boardman Senior Cen- Lake, contact 231-879-4475 the Senior Center, contact 231-258-5030 When: Fri, 7 pm ter, 4859 Pine St SW, RSVP to When: 1st Fri , 4:30 - 7:30 pm When: Wed, doors open at 4:30 pm, Shirley by 9:30 am to 231-369-2700 warm ups start at 5 pm Jackpot Bingo, Dale H. Wheeler When: Tue, Thu, 12:30 - 1 pm Pancake Breakfast Buffet, Dale American Legion Post 219, 10283 H. Wheeler American Legion Post Bunco, Kalkaska VFW Post 8684, M-113, Fife Lake, must be at least 18 Senior Lunch (Kalkaska COA) Clear- 219, 10283 M-113, Fife Lake, 408 Hyde St, bring a dish/snack years old to play, contact 231-879-4475 water Township Hall, 5440 River St NW, WW II veterans eat free, proceeds to pass, contact 231-258-9757 Rapid City, RSVP by 8:30 am to Con- When: 3rd Sun, doors open at 2 pm, benefit veterans and community When: Wed, 6:30 pm games begin at 3 pm nie at 231-564-294 (Note new number) programs, contact 231-879-4475 When: Wed, 12 - 12:30 pm When: 2nd Sun , 8 am - noon Community Meal, Kalkaska United Methodist Church, 2525 Beebe ORGANIZATION MEETINGS Rd, canceled if schools are closed Kalkaska Rotary, William Kitti tact Chris Seeley at 231-879-3221 due to inclement weather, dona- Education Building (Stone House), When: 2nd Wed., 11 am tions accepted, contact 231-258-2820 419 S. Coral St, Kalkaska, When: Wed, except holidays, 5 - 6 pm South Boardman American Legion contact 231-715-1148 #463 and Auxiliary Meeting, When: Mon, 12 pm South Boardman Legion Hall, 5487 HEALTH & FITNESS Kalkaska Democrats, BC Pizza, Boardman Rd (at the tank), South Indoor Cycling, Kaliseum, 1900 Fair- 104 N Cedar St, contact Danielle Boardman, contact 231-369-2944 grounds Rd, contact 231-258-5913 23-384-0944 When: 1st Thur., 7 pm When: Mon, Wed, 5:45 am When: 1st Mon, 6 pm Knights of Columbus, St Joseph Pickle Ball, Kaliseum, 1900 Fair- Kalkaska County Agricultural Fair, the Worker Council #7419, St grounds Rd, contact 231-258-5913 All Seasons Resort Conference Room, Mary of the Woods Catholic Church, When: Mon, Wed, 5:30 pm 760 S Cedar St, all are welcome, new 438 County Rd 612 NE, Kalkaska, and Sat, 9:30 am members and volunteers are being contact Dave at 231-587-4328 Chair Exercises, Mancelona Senior sought, currently meeting every Monday When: 1st Thu, 7 pm Yoga, Helena Township Commu- Center, 122 E State St, Mance- through July 24, contact 231 714-4616 nity Center Voting Room, 8751 Kalkaska American Legion Rob- lona, contact 231-587-9131 When: 1st & 3rd Mondays, 7:00 pm ert E Beebe Post 0480, (Kalkaska Helena Rd, Alden, contact 231-331-4318 When: Tue, 10 am When: Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30 - 9:30 am Kalkaska Genealogy Society Meet- COA) Senior Center, 303 S Coral Fitness Over Fifty, Fife Lake Library, ing, Kalkaska County Library, 247 St. Commander: Raymond Todd. Aerobic Exercise with Weights, 77 Lakecrest Lane contact 231-879-4101 S Cedar St, contact 231-258-9411 When: 3rd Thu, 6 pm (Kalkaska COA) Senior Center, 303 When: Tue, Thu, 11 am, When: 3rd Mon, 7 pm S. Coral St, contact 231-258-5030 Alden Men’s Club, Alden United When: Mon, Fri, 10:30 - 11:30 am Aqua Zumba, Kaliseum, 1900 Fair- Kalkaska VFW Land-O-Lakes Methodist Church fellowshi hall, 9015 grounds Rd, contact 231-258-5913 Post 8684, VFW Post 408 Hyde Helena Rd, Alden. Come see what we TOPS #2304 Meeting, Kalkaska When: Wed , 6 pm St, Quartermaster: Jim Richardson are all ahout, “Helping others in need,” United Methodist Church, 2525 Beebe Yoga, Fife Lake Library, 77 Lake- When: 3rd Mon, 6 pm contact 231-322-6216 or visit the club Rd, Kalkaska, contact 231-384-2154 online at www.aldenmensclub.org. When: Tue, 10 am crest Lane contact 231-879-4101 Al-Anon Meeting, (Kalkaska When: Fri, 9 am, COA) Senior Center, 303 S Coral When: the last Saturday of the month St, contact Linda 231-384-3227 (usually the fourth Saturday), 8 am When: Tue, 8 pm for breakfast and business meeting, CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES except July and November, no meeting Boy/Cub Scouts, Kalkaska United Story Hour, Come with your preschool- Kalkaska Kiwanis Meeting, in December. Methodist Church, 2525 Beebe ers to listen to stories, have a snack Kalkaska Memorial Health Center Rd, boys first grade and older, and meet new friends. Sponsored by (conference room across from cafeteria) contact Terri at 231-384-0417 Friends of the Alden Library, 8751 Hel- 419 S. Coral St. When: Mon, 6:30 pm ena Rd, Alden, contact 231-331-4318 When: Tue, 12 pm Story Time, Mancelona Township When: Wed, 10 am July 12, 19, 26 Friends of the Kalkaska County Library, 202 State St, Mancelona, Library, Kalkaska County Library designed for children ages 3-7, but chil- 247 S. Cedar St, downstairs dren of all ages are welcome. When: 4th Tue, 4 pm When: Tue, 3:30 pm Friends of the Fife Lake Public Library, Fife Lake Public Library, 77 Lakecrest Lane, Fife Lake, con- Northwest MI Voice 2 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Public Meetings Community Calendar GOVERNMENT MEETINGS JULY 2017 Townships: Village of Kalkaska: July 21 - Kalkaska Senior Picnic, July 27 - Annual CETA Ladies Lun- Bear Lake Township, Village Offices, 200 Hyde St, Kalkaska, Kalkaska County Senior Center, cheon, Coldsprings Excelsior Bear Lake Twp Hall, 198 E Bear Lake 231-258-9191 303 S Coral St, 10 am - 2 pm, Township Area (CETA) Hall, Rd NE, Kalkaska, 231-258-4871 Village Council- luncheon, entertainment, dessert 6615 County Rd 612, 11:30 am When: 2nd Tue, 7 pm When: 2nd and 4th Mon, 6 pm walk, informational booths, raf- - hors d'oeuvres, 12-3 pm - lunch Blue Lake Township, DDA- fles, contact 231-258-5030 served, for tickets, contact Joyce Blue Lake Twp Hall, 10599 Twin When: 1st Tue, 5:00 pm July 22 - Surf 'n Turf Dinner, Kalkaska MacIsaac 231-587-5018 Lake Rd, Mancelona, 231-587-8354 Kalkaska County: United Methodist Church, 2525 July 28 - Kids Day at Kalkaska County When: 1st Wed, 7 pm Kalkaska County BOC Chambers, Beebe Rd, 5-6 pm, fundraiser for Fair, 1905 Fairgrounds Rd, 9 am Boardman Township, Administration Building, 605 N Birch the missions of the church, 231- - 1 pm, story time, crafts, music, Boardman Twp Hall/Fire Dept, 4855 St, 231-258-3349 258-2820 Lego Lady, face painting, games, Pine St, South Boardman, 231-369-3336 Board of Commissioners- big trucks and cars, scavenger When: 3rd Wed, 7 pm July 22 - Bacchanalia - Northern When: 3rd Wed, 6 pm Michigan Tasting Event, Kalkaska hunt, barn tours, kiddie carnival Clearwater Township, (except April 12, October 11) County Fairgrounds, 1905 Fair- (wristband available) and more, Clearwater Twp Community Center, Standing Committees- grounds Rd, 7 - 11 pm, evening of Contact 231-714-4614 5407 River St, Rapid City, 231-331-6249 When: 2nd Wed, times below When: 3rd Wed, 7:00 pm locally crafted beer, wine, spirits, July 28 - Motors & Mayhem, Part One (except April 5, October 4) locally sourced food, and enter- at Kalkaska County Fair, 1905 Coldsprings Township, Judiciary & Public Health- 9 am tainment, fundraiser for Kalkaska Fairgrunds Rd, gate opens at 6:30 Coldsprings Twp Hall, 6515 County Road 571 NE, Health & Welfare- 10 am County Agricultural Fair, tickets pm, flag drops at 7:30 pm, Kids available at Pick Kwik or 231- Power Wheels race, car soccer, Mancelona, 231-587-8633 Public Works- 11 am When: 2nd Mon, 7 pm 714-4616 Figure 8, and more, special ticket Personnel/Interview- 1 pm rice for two nights, contact 231- Excelsior Township, July 22 - Movies in the Park, Fife Lake 714-4614 Excelsior Twp Hall, 987 County Road Budget & Finance- 2 pm Ball Park, 618 E State St, movie 571 NE, Kalkaska, 231-258-6108 (also meets the Tue before, 5 pm) begins at dusk, concessions avail- July 28 - Movies in the Park, South When: 1st Mon, 7 pm County Affairs/ able, presented by the Forest Area Boarman Ball Park, Boardman Garfield Township, IT & Computer- 3 pm Band Boosters, this week's movie Park Rd SW, movie begins at Garfield Twp Hall, 0466 W Sharon is "Finding Dory." dusk, concessions available, pre- Rd, Fife Lake, 231-369-2483 July 24-28 - Annual UsedBook Sale, sented by the Forest Area Band When: 2nd Thur, 7 pm Helena Township Community Boosters, this week's movie is Kalkaska Township , Center, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, "Smurfs: The Lost Village" Kalkaska Twp Hall / Fire Department, during regular library hours, con- July 29 - Alden Men's Club Annual 209 Laurel St, 231-258-9305 tact 231-331-4318 Rummage Sale, Alden United When: 1st Tue, 7 pm July 25 - Weather Q&A, Fife Lake Methodist Church parking lot, Oliver Township, Public Library, 77 Lakecrest Ln, 9015 Helena Rd, Alden, 8:30 am, Oliver Twp Hall, 5272 Kniss Rd SE, fife Lake, 6-7 pm, join 9&10 a huge variety of items at great 231-258-5348 prices, which help the Men's When: 2nd Tue, 7 pm News / Fox 32 Meteorologist Michael Stevens for a discussion Club fulfill their mission of Orange Township, about local weather and answer "Helping Others in Need." Orange Twp Hall, 28 Boardman Rd contact 231-518-4066 SE, South Boardman, 231-369-3457 any questions concerning weather When: 2nd Mon, 7 pm and broadcasting, contact 231- July 29 - Alden Days and Parade, 879-4101 downtown Alden, variety of Rapid River Township, activities and sales at downtown Rapid River Twp Hall, 101 Phelps Rd, July 26 - Summer Play Group, Free- businesses, parade at 1 pm. Kalkaska, 231-258-2943 dom Park,Rapid City Rd, Rapid When: 2nd Tue, 7 pm City at the playground 10-11 am, July 29 - Teens Day at Kalkaska Springfield Township, 5 to One Early Childhood Activity County Fair, 1905 Fairgrounds Springfield Twp Hall, 5253 Ingersoll July 26 - Old Fashion Square Dance Rd, 1-4 pm, Bubble Soccer, Photo Rd SW, Fife Lake, 231-879-4541 and Ice Cream Social at Kalkaska Scavenger Hunt, games and more, When: 2nd Tue, 7 pm County Fair, 1905 Fairgrounds contact 231-714-4614 Rd, 7 pm, featuring Straight For- July 29 - Motors $ Mayhem, Part Two ward Bluegrass and Shetler's Ice at Kalkaska County Fair, 1905 Cream, contact 231-714-4614 Fairgrounds Rd, gate opens at July 27 - Seniors Day at Kalkaska 4 pm, flag drops at 5 pm, Kids County Fair, 1905 Fairgrounds Power Wheels race, bump-n-run Rd, 8 am to 1 pm, pancake with new small car stock, contact MICELLANEOUS breakfast served 8 - 10:30 am, 231-714-4614 Small Crafts Group, (Kalkaska COA) Basketry Classes, Alden Library, antiques appraisals, senior scav- Senior Center, 303 S Coral St, all 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, pre- enger hunt, bingo, and more! are welcome to bring their handheld sented by Dorothy Walter, join Contact 231-714-4614 crafts, such as crocheting, needlepoint, anytime, contact 231 331-6583 knitting, etc.,contact 231-258-5030 When: Wed, 1 - 4 pm AUGUST 2017 When: Mon, 9 to 11 am Holistic Mamas of Northern Mi, August 1 - Juniper Garden Club pm, presented by the Kalkaska Kalkaska Baby Pantry, Kalkaska Village Chiropractic, 798 W. Mile Meeting,12:30 pm, Memorial DDA and 4Front Credit Union, Church of Christ, 1725 W Kalkaska Rd, open meetings for like-minded and potluck at Freedom Park featuring a picnic dinner, commu- Rd, Clothing, diapers, wipes available natural parenting discussing a vari- (donations of such are accepted), serving ety of topics, contact 561-876-8727 in Rapid City, new members nity update and live music with children to size 4T, contact 231-258-9441 When: 1st & 3rd Wed, 6 to 7 pm are always welcome, contact Danny B followed by the Fresh When: 2nd & 4th Tue, 9:30am - 1 pm. [email protected] Fossils, contact 231-258-9191 Kalkaska Library Book Club, or call Gloria at 231-629-2498 Antrim County Baby Pantry, Kalkaska County Library, 247 S August 11 - Movies in the Park, South St. Anthony’s Church, 209 Jeffer- Cedar St, contact 231-258-9411 August 5 - Kalkaska Family Drive- Boardman Ball Park, Board- son Ave, Mancelona, providing food, When: 3rd Thu, 12 to 1 pm, except In Movie, Railroad Square, 300 man Park Rd SW, movie begins clothing, diapers, and other items December block Cedar St, downtown, movie at dusk, concessions available, for children from birth until their Quality Thyme Garden Club, begins at dusk, approximately 10 sponsored by the Forest Area 6th birthday (donations accepted) Kalkaska COA Senior Center, pm, concessions available, pre- Band Boosters, this week's movie When: 2nd & 4th Tue, 11:30 am to 303 S Coral St, sented by Village of Kalkaska & is "Power Rangers (2017)" 4:00 pm President Louise Hinds, Citizens 4 Kalkaska August 13 - 30th Annual Kalkaska Grief Support Group, (Kalkaska COA) contact 231-564-0748 Senior Center, 303 S Coral St, all ages When: 3rd Thu, 7 pm August 5 - Movies in the Park, Fife Kiwanis Family Picnic, Railroad are welcome, contact 231 258-5030 Lake Ball Park, 618 E State St, Square, 300 bloc Cedar St, down- When: Wed, 10:30 am movie begins at dusk, concessions town, 11:30 am to 3 pm, featuring available, sponsored by the Forest grilled steak fresh corn on the cob, Area Band Boosters, this week's salad, and more, tickets available movie is "Inside Out." from Kinwanis members or at the August 11 - Community Picnic and door, proceeds to benefit Kalkaska Concert, Railroad Square, 300 community projects block Cedar St, Downtown, 6-10

Northwest MI Voice Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 3 Obituaries Lois Ann Gaffney Betty Louise Heid Surrounded by her adoring family, ment of her mothering ability and Betty Louise Heid, 95, of Fife and planning commissioner for Lois Ann Gaffney, 82, of Punta some would say -- Divine Inter- Lake, passed away on July 12, the Village of Fife Lake for over Gorda, Florida, formerly of Wil- vention! 2017 at Munson Medical Center. 25 years. She was also a charter liamsburg, entered into eternal Lois is survived by She was born on April 23, 1922, member of the Fife Lake American life with her loving her children: Michael in Fife Lake, to Legion Auxiliary Post Savior, on July 3, (Cheryl) Coy, Lyle the late Brady 219. Betty is survived 2017. She was born (Pat) Coy, Doug W. and Emma by her children: Karen to the late Porter (Vicky) Coy, Lola Jean (Rancour) (Richard) Schmidt, and Bonnie (Ellars) (Jim) Coy-Lahti, Lee Clark. Betty went Linda Forwerck, Snow in Swartz Marvin (Cindy) Coy, to school in Fife John Kelley, and Creek, Michigan Alan (Cris) Coy, Phil- Lake and Lansing, Jim (Georgie) Birgy; on August 25, lip Coy, Timothy Coy, then graduated in grandchildren: Mary 1934. Lois enjoyed Gordon (Terry) Coy; 1940 from Cadil- Jean, Jodi, Erin, Ben gardening, fishing, 31 grandchildren; lac. She married and Tommy; seven bowling, baking, many great-grand- Tom Kelley later great-grandchildren; painting and being children; sisters Janet, that year and went four great-great- with family. It's Margaret and Barb, on to have three grandchildren; as a struggle to and brother Bert. children: Karen, well as 11 grandchil- describe Lois in a paragraph as she Linda and John. They separated dren and 20 great-grandchildren was nothing short of amazing. She She was preceded in death by her in 1954 and in 1957 Betty married from her marriages to Leonard will be remembered as a strong, parents, spouses Lee Coy and Leonard Birgy and they moved to and Ed; and many relatives and gracious, kind and loving home- Richard Gaffney, sisters Betty and Mt. Pleasant. Together they had friends that always held a special maker extraordinaire as well as Pauline, brothers Don and Richard, Jim, and along with Leonard’s place in Betty’s heart. She was an awesome storyteller! Lois had daughter-in-law Shelley, and two boys John and Dan, made a family preceded in death by her siblings: an amazing ability to tell stories infant grandchildren. A memorial of four boys and two girls. Betty Devere, Marjorie, Kathryn, Jean, and those stories were enhanced service was held on Friday July went to work in housekeeping for Frances, Bill, and Betty. Recently by her incredible sense of humor! 14, 2017 at the Kalkaska Funeral the Mt. Pleasant State Home and she was able to enjoy the company Her grandkids and great-grandkids Home. Memorial contributions Training school, working there for of many family and friends when would gather around, listening may be made in Lois’s honor 10 years. In 1968 they returned they celebrated her 95th birthday with great excitement, as she told to Hospice of Michigan-North- to Fife Lake and Betty worked this spring. A funeral service was comical stories of raising her chil- west chapter 103 or Parkinson’s as a cook at Forest Area, eventu- held on Saturday, July 15, 2017 dren. Lois and her late husband, Network North. Arrangements ally becoming head cook until her at the Fife Lake United Methodist Lee Coy, were blessed with 8 entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral retirement in 1982. Leonard passed Church. Memorial contributions boys and 1 girl, and their survival Home and Cremation Services. away in 1978. When Betty retired, may be made to the Fife Lake Area through childhood is a true testa- she studied and received her Real Ambulance Authority, 134 Mor- Estate license. A business she gan Street, Fife Lake, MI 49633 worked in for over 30 years. Betty or the United Methodist Church Gale Lee Crane eventually remarried in 1995 to Ed at 206 N. Boyd Street, Fife Lake, Heid, adding Ed’s children Mick, MI 49633. Also a contribution Gale Lee Crane, 74, of Kalkaska, Sandy McCaslin, Jerry (Heather) Linda and Ed to the family. They may be made to the family at P.O. passed away on July 1, 2017 Atwood, Jim (Dawn) Atwood, enjoyed traveling, especially to Box 191, Fife Lake, MI 49633. at Munson Medical Center. He Andy Atwood, Chuck (Shawna Florida and Arizona in the winter Arrangements have been entrusted was born on August 2, 1942 in Windish) Crane, and Angel (Matt) months. Ed passed away in 2004. to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Kalkaska, to the late Charles and Biggins; 25 grandchildren; 29 Betty was always very involved in Cremation Services. Vera Louise (Mey- great grandchildren; her community; she was a mem- ers) Crane. Gale siblings: Carolyn Mus- ber of the Arbutus Rebekah Lodge was a machinist selman, Bill Crane, since 1946, as well as serving as at Borg Warner in Linda Carmon, Bruce clerk, treasurer, council member, Cadillac until his (Deb) Crane, and Lyle retirement. He then (Penny) Crane; and volunteered at the many nieces, nephews Kalkaska Senior and friends. He was Center and spent a preceded in death by 2017 Fall Craft Show lot of time helping his parents Charles anyone he could. and Vera, and brothers The Bear Lake Christian Church is now accepting Gale enjoyed auto- Charles "Bud" Crane applications for the 2017 Fall Craft Show on September motive repairs and and Kerry Crane. A 23 from 10 am to 4 pm. Please contact organizer Pam general tinkering. Celebration of Gale's He looked forward life was held from on Modos for an application at 231-258-4551.. to his time hunting, fishing and Saturday, July 8th at the Kalkaska hanging out with his family and Senior Center. Arrangements have friends. Gale is survived by his been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral children: Robert "Lee" (Nancy) Home and Cremation Services. McCaslin, Cheryl Windish, Shir- ley Crane, David (Tracy) Crane, Northwest MI VOICE Fields Media PO Box 28 Rapid City, MI 49676 Editor in Chief Tina Norris Fields 231-322-2787 or 231-645-0244 [email protected]

Free-Lance Sports Writers: Greg Gielczyk & John Raffel Free-Lance Feature Writer: Judy Kammeraad Out & About and Calendar: Debbie Ball-Odeh [email protected]

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Northwest MI Voice 4 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Local Houses of Worship Community

Local Houses of Worship

Kalkaska Annual CETA Ladies' Luncheon Calvary Baptist Church 815 W Dresden St, Kalkaska Thursday, July 27, 2017 Sunday morning: 9:30 am - ABF Fellowship 9:45 am - Sunday School & Adult Bible Fellowship CETA is a community organization with the responsibility 10:45 am - Morning Worship for keeping the Hall running and open for the community. Kalkaska Church of Christ We are an all-volunteer staff, and we keep tthe Hall open 1725 W Kalkaska Rd, Kalkaska through fundrasers, rentals, dues, and donations. Sunday morning: The Ladies' Luncheon is our largest fundraiser; we hope to 8:30 am - Worship Service sell 100 tickets. 11:00 am - Worship Service Location: CETA Hall on CR 612. Kalkaska Church of the Nazarene 1367 W Kalkaska Rd, Kalkaska Time: 11:30 a.m for hors d'oeuvres, 12 - 3 p.m. for lunch. Sunday morning: For tichets call: Joyce MacIsaac at -231-587-5018. 9:45 am - Sunday School for all ages 10:45 am - Worship Service Kalkaska Peoples Church 216 S Cherry St, Kalkaska Sunday morning: 10:00 am - Bible Study 11:00 am - Worship Service Kalkaska United Methodist Church THANK YOU! 2525 Beebe Rd, Kalkaska Sunday morning: The Alden United Methodist Church would like to shout out 10:00 am - Worship Service a huge THANK YOU to the Great Lakes Packing Company 10:15 am - Sunday School and the Torch Riviera for their support to help make our Annual Cherry Pie Fund-Raiser a success. Many Rivers Church 2305 N 131, Kalkaska Thanks also go to all the volunteers that baked the pies and Sunday morning: sold them, as well as to the members of the community who 10:00 am - Worship Service purchased the pies. Wednesday evening: Thanks again, 7:00 pm - Youth Worship Service Alden United Methodist Church St Mary of the Woods Roman Catholic Church 438 Co Rd 612, Kalkaska Sunday morning: 11:00 am - Worship Service St Paul Lutheran Church 2470 Beebe Rd, Kalkaska Sunday morning: 10:00 am - Worship Service [*See Vacation Bible School note, below] Rapid City Rapid City Church of Christ 7964 Rapid City Rd, Rapid City Sunday morning: 10:30 am - Worship Service Torch Lake Assembly of God 9456 Valley Rd, Rapid City Sunday morning: 10:30 am - Worship Service

Alden Community United Methodist Church 9051 Helena Rd, Alden Sundays 9:00 am - Worship Service 9:30 am - Children's Sunday School 10:30 am - ACE (Adult Christian Education) Tuesdays 10:00 am - Ladies' prayer group Game Night: July 21, 2017 at 6:30 pm. Alden Men Rummage Sale: July

Would you like to add your church to our list? Please email [email protected]

* Vacation Bible School - St. Paul Lutheran Church Theme: "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" August 7-10, 2017 - 9 am - 12 noon Church picnic kick-off: August 6 at 11:30 am To register, go to: www.stpaulkalkaska.org or call: 231-258-9258

Northwest MI Voice Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 5 Community Service Directory

KALKASKA AREA TRANSIT Anyway People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you July 19, 2017 through august 31, 2017 of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. Call for more information 231-258-6808 Note: All times are approximate. All Schedules are subject to change. If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Rapid City/Alden Route Monday & Wednesday Succeed anyway. Kalkaska to Rapid City 10:00 a.m. If you are honest and sincere, Rapid City 10:15 a.m. 10:45 a.m. 11:15 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 12:45 p.m. 1:15 p.m. people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway. Alden 10:25 a.m. 10:55 a.m. 11:25 a.m. 11:55 a.m. 12:25 p.m. 12:55 p.m. 1:25 p.m. What you spend years creating, Crystal Beach at Aarwood 10:35 a.m. 11:05 a.m. 11:35 a.m. 12:05 p.m. 12:35 p.m. 1:05 p.m. 1:35 p.m. others could destroy overnight. Rapid City to Kalkaska 1:45 p.m. Create anyway. Rapid City Stops including: Dollar General, Hahn Circle at South St., Clearwater Twp Hall, Freedom Park, Village Market If you find serenity and happiness, Alden Stops including: Helena Twp Hall & Library, Tyler St. at Tennis Courts, Alden Depot.• Crystal Beach atAarwood some may be jealous. Be happy anyway. South Boardman/Fife Lake Tuesday & Thursday The good you do today, Kalkaska to South Boardman 10:00 a.m. will often be forgotten. Do good anyway. South Boardman 10:15 a.m. 10:45 a.m. 11:15 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 12:45 p.m. 1:15 p.m. Give the best you have, Fife Lake 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. and it will never be enough. South Boardman to Kalkaska 1:45 p.m. Give your best anyway. South Boardman Stops including: American Legiorv’Senior Center, Boardman Family Practice, Yankee Boy In the final analysis, it is between you and Fife Lake Stops including: Family Dollar, Boat Launch/Beach Parking, Village Market. God. It was never between you and them, anyway. -this version is credited to Mother Teresa

Service Directory

This space could be your new ad. call 231-322-2787

Northwest MI Voice 6 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Community My Quest to be a Better Author By Keller Torrey my excitement when a few weeks It’s the last day of school and all my friends later I received the acceptance let- are partying it up and celebrating their ter from Johnathan himself! upcoming freedom from the tests, equa- The reason I wanted to attend is tions, and the pure boredom of some classes. because you can rarely find me Instead here I am in the back seat of an almost without my nose in a book and two-hour car ride, my little sister pestering from that love for reading came a me with an onslaught of annoying questions, new passion for writing. I knew I and butterflies in my stomach anticipating needed to expand my knowledge the unexpected! of writing if I wanted to someday My name is Keller Torrey and eight months write a book, which is my ultimate ago I took a chance and sent in an essay in goal! hopes of being one of the few to be accepted Finally the day came to leave for into Johnathan Rand’s Author Quest, a camp camp. I was a bit (ok … a lot!) ner- for talented and serious young writers such vous. I mean I had never spent so as myself. Who is Johnathan Rand, you ask? many nights away from home and I Johnathan Rand is best known for his creepy didn’t know anyone. But, when we and well-known series American Chillers got there, the flames that were my Keller, with author Johnathan Rand, receiving his certificate for and Michigan Chillers. So you can imagine nerves, were quickly extinguished completing his Quest (used with permission from Mr. Rand) as I was immediately put into a group and we began activities. A normal day in camp consisted of eating All in all, camp was a great experience. I (compliments of the snack fairy!) and writ- made new friends and learned a lot of useful ing, obviously! But, the majority of our day information to become a better writer. I am was spent in our workshops. My favorite already thinking about my essay in hopes of workshop was where we learned fun new being accepted again next year and am cur- words like mallemaroking, which means ‘to rently keeping my skills sharp by working on throw a wild party on an ice-bound whaling my first full length adventure story. I made ship in Greenland’ and yes, it is a real word! a promise to my favorite cashier, Tye, at the At night we finished the day with Firewords, bookstore BAM to come back and visit him where we all gathered around the campfire when I become a famous author someday, and listened to other campers share their sto- and I fully intend to keep that promise! ries. The time had come when it was my turn to share (gulp…) as I stumbled to the podium wondering if I would make it through my Keller, as he is writing his story Zombie Apocalypse story, before I knew it I was done and the crowd was cheering!!

Helena Township Residents Asked to Help Plan for Local Parks During the month of July, the Parks and Recreation Com- mittee of Helena Township is conducting a survey of local residents to determine how their parks are currently used and to develop a vision of what the public priori- tizes for the future. The last survey, taken in 2012, gave the township a clearer idea of how recreation resources were contributing to the well-being of the community. In gathering this information, the committee will be pre- paring a five-year plan that will enable the township to apply for grants. A previous plan allowed the committee to successfully receive a DNR grant to improve the tennis courts in 2016. To allow for possible grant funding in the near future, the new five-year plan must be completed as soon as possible. In order to make the survey accessible to the largest au- dience, the new survey has been designed to be completed online at http://www.helenatownship.com/ where a “complete survey” link is provided. It will only be available from July 1-31, so residents will have only a short time to make their voices heard. Once results have been tabulated, there will be a public meeting to share them and to solicit further comments from the community, date and time to be announced as soon as possible. Paper copies will also be available at the Community Center for those who would prefer that method of re- sponding. Those responses can be returned to the library or the township offices in the Community Center at 8751 Helena Road in Alden or mailed to the Parks and Recre- ation Committee, PO Box 177, Alden MI 49612.

Northwest MI Voice Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 7 Community

Facebook Inspiration By Deb Ball-Odeh Kalkaska Rocks! Using time to help A simple idea Ever been walking along and something Another recently started Facebook group, catch your eye that brings a smile to your Volunteer Opportunities in Kalkaska County, A few weeks ago, Kalkaska resident Dick face? This is what might happen if you see is asking people in the community to lend Anderson, who is a youth baseball coach, one of the lovely painted rocks by the newly a hand and giving them a place to find out decided he would do a little something to founded Kalkaska Rocks! Facebook group. who needs help. The group began because drive a few more dollars towards the nearly Founder Sue Lawrence was inspired by the its creator was seeing so much negativity finished Kalkaska New Baseball Field Proj- Kindness Rocks Project. Their goals are to on Facebook and asked in a post, "what if, ect. Anderson is also a farmer so the idea to 1- inspire others through randomly placed instead of people using time on their key- raffle off some of his homegrown meat came rocks along the way and 2- recruit every per- boards fighting with others, they would spend to mind. He pulled a dozen or so packages of son who stumbles upon it (the rock) to join it making this community better somehow?" beef and pork out of the freezer, listed what in the pursuit of inspiring others through ran- Many responded that they would like to help he had, took a picture, and uploaded it to his dom acts of kindness. This informal group but didn't know where or how. That's when Facebook page close to one in the afternoon. consists of anyone and everyone who wishes the idea of a group was born; a place where He set bidding to end at 9 o'clock that eve- to paint a rock with a positive word or say- representatives from local organizations and ning and hit post. As the clock ticked down, ing or picture and then "hide" it for others to groups in need of volunteers could post their the bidding closed with $300 from Dan find. Each rock should have Kalkaska Rocks! opportunities and anyone willing to help can Bloomquist, owner of Trout Town Tavern & FB or #KalkaskaRocks written on the bot- contact them. There are community-wide Eatery. Anderson contacted Bloomquist to tom with the idea that the finder will take a events such as the National Trout Festival, let him know he had the winning bid and to photo of their find and upload to the group. Christmas in Kalkaska, and the Kalkaska arrange delivery but he was in for a surprise. The finder is then encouraged to re-hide the County Fair that depend on volunteers for "Dan told me he wanted me to find a family rock. There was a recent get together at the successful events. There are also places such in need and give them the meat," said Ander- Kalkaska County Library where three tables as the Kalkaska Museum, only open four days son. "The new ball field project got a healthy where filled with artists aspiring to inspire a week in the summer months, that looks for donation and a needy family was going to get through their artistry. There will be three days a three-hour commitment. All are welcome a bounty of meat." of rock painting during the Kalkaska County to join the group and help as much or little as This was a perfect story of using Facebook Fair next week. Wednesday and Thursday, it possible. If you are not a computer internet for the good. A positive story to benefit a will be part of 4-H kids' activities from 10 am user but would still like to become involved, community project but it didn't end quite to 3 pm and on Friday, during the Fair's Kids' please contact Debbie at 231 360-6167. there. Within a day or so, a friend of Ander- Day fun from 9 am to 1 pm. If you would like son's posted on her Facebook about a friend to contribute supplies such as acrylic paints who had recently left an abusive situation. or cleaned rocks, please contact Deb at 231 She and her children were starting over with 714-4614. nothing and her friend was asking if anyone had clothing and groceries they would donate to help. It didn't take long for Anderson to respond that he had meat to pass along. Many others offered to help with gift cards and arti- cles of clothing, along with ideas of where help could be found. What began as a way to throw a few more dollars into helping complete a project has touched many people along the way and has inspired some to find their own way of pay- ing it forward. Some of the rocks waiting to be found.

Elizabeth L. Hughes, D.O., Be sure to like us on Facebook Joins Munson Medical Center www.facebook.com/NorthwestMIVoice New postings all the time! Physician specializes in family practice Elizabeth L. Hughes, D.O., Dr. Hughes graduated from has joined the staff of Munson Michigan State University Medical Center as a board- College of Osteopathic Medi- certified specialist in family cine, East Lansing, Mich. She practice. completed a residency at Ing- Dr. Hughes practices at Grand ham Regional Medical Center, Traverse Internists, 5015 N. Lansing, Mich. Previously, Dr. Royal Dr., Traverse City. She Hughes practiced in the Lan- is accepting new patients ages sing area for 13 years. Backpack, School Supplies, 12 and older, and appoint- ments can be made by calling Socks & Shoes Drive 231-935-0850. For additional information, call HealthLink at 231-935-5886 or With back-to-school specials already appearing in stores, 800-533-5520. the Kalkaska Church of Christ would like to announce they are holding a Backpack, School Supplies, Socks & Shoes Drive for the kids of Kalkaska. Collections will begin in mid-August. They plan to have these items available at the annual Back-to-School Blazer Bash held the Thursday prior to Labor Day. They will be looking for school supplies such as pencils, notebooks, glue sticks, crayons, Kleenex, scis- sors, backpacks and shoes & socks in all sizes for boys and girls. Watch this paper for more details in our August 4 issue.

Northwest MI Voice 8 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Sports Voicethe good news LOCAL SPORTS Space for ad

Coverage of teams from local area schools

Kalkaska basketball teams stay busy during summer By John Raffel three games. We won both games [Sunday]. The varsity went to Benzie Central shootout. KALKASKA — The Kalkaska girls basket- Overall I was pleased. We lost six seniors We went to Grand Valley, we went to the Uni- ball team will be doing some rebuilding next from last year's team. There are only two versity of Michigan, and we went to Cadillac season , and coach Dave Dalton has had a players who played valuable minutes.” and Glen Lake. busy summer to get ready. That's what makes summer important, Dalton “We had over 25 games. We played well. It “We just got back from Northwood Univer- agreed. was very competitive this summer. It was a sity,” Dalton said. “We had a three-day team “We were supposed to play in the Traverse lot of fun.” camp there. We played two days in Benzie City League on Wednesday night but the kids Manchester had 13 to 15 varsity players with and three days in Petoskey and three days at had softball practice and we had to drop out him. Northwood. The kids did really great [Sun- of that,” Dalton said. “We would have had The JV players had 12 to 13 players. We day].” five more nights. That was the plan, but it hosted our own JV shootout and went to Ben- Coaches are usually allowed to play three didn't work out.” zie Central as well. Our JVs lost only three days in the summer. Boys basketball games this summer. I'm going into my sixth “We didn't even come close,” Dalton said. Kalkaska boys coach Dave Manchester has season as boys coach and it's taking a turn “We played Saline one other day. also had a busy summer. for the better. The summer is huge. That way, once we get to the season, guys already know Dalton had one JV player with him. Most “We tried to focus on hard as we can in June,” [the system]. It's great for the boys. They can were varsity players. Manchester said. “The football coach (Jer- hang out. They're bonding and can develop “I have a very small team,” he said. “I was emy Wilkinson) and I came up with a good that trust relationship.” proud of them at Northwood. We beat two agreement that I would pack it in June and he Class A schools. The second day we lost all would give his players a pass for basketball. It's worked out well the last couple of years.

Leach working on her softball skills during summer season ! By John Raffel Remember that the Voice is a KALKASKA — Kenzie Leach is coming off biweekly publication. an outstanding Kalkaska softball season and is using the summer for what she hopes will Regular contributions to the be even better things during 2017-18. content are due on the Leach was a shortstop-pitcher and co-MVP. Friday before publication, She went 16-2 in the pitching circle. unless the events are happening She was a junior last season for the Blazers over the weekend. and the good news is she has a year of eligi- Community news and press releases bility remaining. are due by noon on the Kalkaska was 14-0 in the Lake Michigan Monday before publication. Conference and won the district title. “I thought we had a really good season for what we had,” Leach said. “We lost a lot of seniors, five good seniors last year. So I thought we did pretty good filling the holes. We hit the ball pretty well this year.” Leach has been on varsity all three years and acknowledges 2017 was probably her best season. “I've been trying to get better every year,” she said. Leach would usually pitch the first game and be at shortstop for the second, a similar rou- it, so your feet are always moving.” tine as in past seasons. Leach is playing summer softball for a travel “For me I like pitching the first game,” she team based out of Onaway with players from said. “Pitching the second game doesn't all over this part of the state. It's her fifth year bother me either. I get into the routine.” with the team. A pitching performance against Petoskey “You get so many more games in during the sticks out for Leach. summer,” she said. “You play better com- “They didn't have too many hits off me or petition especially when you get downstate. [Wilkinson],” Leach recalled. “They had one You're playing some of the better teams.” hit off me that game and two hits off Wilkin- Leach likes the Blue Blazers' prospects for son.” 2018. She's especially effective, Leach said, when “We should be pretty good next year,” Leach she connects on the corners and when her said. “We'll have eight seniors next year. We change-up is working. could have another good season. We have a At shortstop, Leach also had a strong season. lot of people show up and hit during the winter.” “I have a pretty good arm,” she said. “We do the [Auburn] hop, that's what the coaches call Northwest MI Voice Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 9 Sports Kooistra focusing on busy softball summer By John Raffel man year toward the end of the season. She Taylor Kooistra has had a busy summer in now has two varsity seasons under her belt. softball after a championship spring season “I thought I did really good [offensively and on the diamond. defensively],” she said. “I was real happy.” Kooistra was a key player for Kalkaska during Kooistra has some fond memories of the the drive to the Lake Michigan Conference spring season. and district titles. “I dove and caught a ball and it was really Kooistra, a co-MVP for the team, was a right nice,” she said. “I was more disciplined at the fielder. She was third on the team in hitting at plate.” .413 with eight home runs. This summer, she's focusing on improving as This summer, she's playing travel ball for a an infielder. The 2017 Kalkaska team was the local team. best she's played on so far in her career. The “They come from all over, like Traverse City, 2018 squad seems to have good potential. Kalkaska, Kingsley, Manton,” Kooistra said. “I think we'll be really decent,” she said. “We travel all over Michigan. We've won one Kooistra focuses on softball as her only sport. tournament out of two so far.” “I'm probably going to take a break [during She's been playing first base. During the the fall] and then go indoors,” she said. spring for Kalkaska, she plays outfield. Kooistra moved up to the varsity her fresh-

Football team prepares for new season at Kalkaska By John Raffel We have a variety of things. Kids have been ning plays, running routes, quarterbacks KALKASKA — The beginning of the high organizing activities when they've come up to throwing, blocking responsibilities, things school football preseason is less than a month the football field, have run routes and have like that. We don't do any team stuff. It's hard away and Kalkaska football coach Jeremy thrown stuff.” when they throw the middle school in. We get Wilkinson is doing whatever he can to get his There have been some summer workout away from running plays. It will be a lot of team ready. changes. individual work. It's a lot of drills and football specific stuff.” “We've had weight-lifting three days a week,” “Instead of having the weight room open from Wilkinson said. “We open it up twice a day. If 3 to 5:30 in the afternoon, where it interfered Wilkinson said usually in the morning, he'll the kids can't make the morning sessions, they with youth baseball, we changed it and had have 10 to 12 youngsters show up and around can come to the evening sessions. We've been a session 7 to 9 in the morning and also 8 to 15 to 20 at night. doing that all summer. On varsity, we've had 9:30 in the evening,” Wilkinson said. “The ones that do show up, they're benefitting a couple of 7-on-7s, one at the end of June The team camp is in the evening at the high a lot,” he said. “It's a little bit of nervousness, and one last Monday in a tournament up at school. not knowing the type of numbers we'll get.” East Jordan. “We'll be doing a lot of individual stuff,” “For the next three days, starting [Monday Wilkinson said. “We'll do a lot of drills and night], we'll have our middle school, JV and working position specific stuff as far as run- varsity team camp that will be going on.

Forest Area July 4th Road Race

Race sponsors: Ricky's Heating, Kniss Gitls' Cattle Company, Fife Lake Village Market, Fife Lake Inn, Voice Motors, Hays Manufacturing, 258-TIRE, Mustan Pub and Grill, Kalkaska Memorial Health Center

Northwest MI Voice 10 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 Sports

Chain of Lakes Championship Saturday a resounding success ELK RAPIDS - The Chain of Lakes Little I mean inning. The Lady Elks scored three The last act in the Chain of Lakes Champion- League wrapped up its season on July 15th more runs while the Blazers replied with four ship Saturday Matinee was entrusted to the when Elk Rapids hosted “Championship in the bottom half, but when the scorecards undefeated Minor “A” Boys in the persons of Tournament Saturday” featuring the best of were tallied the Elk Rapids Minor “B” Girls Team #1 versus the Mancelona Squad com- the best in six finals games between twelve #1 came out on top as 2017 champs with a ing in with a formidable record of ten wins teams from the Peanut “A” thru the Minor hard fought 13-12 victory. against only two defeats. Kalkaska Minor “A” levels in both boys baseball and girls “A” Team #1 closed out the show and brought softball. down the curtain on the 2017 Chain of Lakes The first team to stake its claim to the season- baseball season with a big final number, win- ending first place trophy was the Girls Peanut ning out over the scrappy Ironmen 17-7. “A” #3 team from Kalkaska also known as the “Dabbin Devils.” Anchored by good defense and even better pitching the undefeated Kalkaska Team #3 scored three runs in the first inning and that turned out to be enough, defeating the Elk Rapids #1 squad by a final score of 4-0. The Little Lady Elks, though on the short end on Saturday, had a fine season with a win/loss record of 11-2. Chain of Lakes Minoe "B" girls champions The future of Girls softball in both Kalkaska Elk Rapids #1 and Elk Rapids appears bright with the bevy of young talent that was showcased on Sat- urday. Meanwhile on the Minor “B” Boys side of Chain of Lakes Minoe "A" boys champions the ledger the undefeated Mancelona Team Kalkaska #1 #1 found themselves matched up against the young men from Central Lake who entered Congratulations should be extended to not the winner-take-all event with a record of just the winners of Saturday’s games, but to nine wins and three losses. This game could all the competitors, the umpires, the hosts, only be described as a pitchers’ duel as the and all the fans who behaved with the kind hurlers overwhelmed the batters from both of class and decorum that all the children can clubs who went down on strikes a total of take a lesson from. And that ladies and gen- twenty-four times. A rocket-like three-run tlemen, is what it’s supposed to be all about, homer far over the centerfield fence in the for the good of the kids. Saturday played out third inning was the lone offensive moment, as exactly that, kudos to all. Have a safe joy- as Mancelona took home the title with a 3-0 ous rest of the summer and remember kids, Chain of Lakes Peanut "A" girls champions victory over a Central Lake team that did its there’s always next year. Kalkska #3 best but came up short. Congratulations Iron- Article submitted by Jeff Bergman men! The Peanut “A” Boys Championship featured the two teams with the best regular season records, the undefeated Elk Rapids Elks at twelve wins versus the squad from Central Lake coming in at ten wins against just two losses. The Peanut “A” Elks protected their perfect record and came out on top by a count of 4-2 in a defensive gem that featured a combined twenty-two strike outs between the opposing pitchers.

Chain of Lakes Minoe "B" boys champions Manelona #1 Ironmen

The last teams to take center stage on the sun drenched Saturday afternoon were the Minor “A” boys and girls squads. The Bellaire Girls Softball team came into the contest with a Minor “A” League best 11-1 record. Central Lake entered the final at eight wins and four Shop losses on the season. Bellaire opened up with Chain of Lakes Peanut "A" boys champions Elk Rapids Elks a run in the first. That held up until the third Local and fourth innings when Central Lake scored five in each stanza. This proved to be more We got it Under the hot noonday sun, the Minor “B” than Bellaire could overcome, falling to the girls softball and boys baseball teams were new champions, Central Lake, by a final tally right here ! slated to step into the ring next, to vie for of 10-6. their respective titles. The undefeated Elk Rapids Minor “B” Girls Squad #1 coming in with twelve wins was matched up against the team with the second best record, the Kalkaska Minor “B” Girls #1 with a record of 11-1. This game was a slugfest and by far the most exciting clash of the day. Elk Rapids came out punching, putting five runs on the board in the top of the first. The Blazers, though staggered, countered back with four runs of their own in their half of round one. Elk Rapids in the second inning continued to swing from the heels by Chain of Lakes Minoe "A" girls champions pushing four more runs across. Down 9-4 Central Lake Kalkaska continued to chip away at the lead by working the body until the big guns came out again in the fifth and final round, oops,

Northwest MI Voice Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017 11 Community Photos & Stories Parades, Fireworks, and Festivities in Fife Lake By Judy Kammeraad There truly is something special about setting eat and drink.” FIFE LAKE – Independence Day has come up your lawn chair at the curb, or spreading Disney theme parks aren’t the only places and gone, but I’d still love to share with you your blanket out on the grass. My favorite that offer a great fireworks display. Our rural how a rural community in Northern Michigan thing to watch is the delight in the children’s community of Fife Lake has a spectacular celebrates Independence day. Fife Lake has eyes as they scurry to retrieve the candy being display over the lake in the fresh country air what is called “The Best 4th in the North.” tossed from the floats. away from the city lights. Families spread They don’t call it that just for nothing; it their blankets on the beach early, enjoy a truly is one of the best. Celebrating in a rural picnic lunch from local vendors, and top community has a special appeal. The grass is everything off with some ice cream from greener, the air is fresher, and the people are the Fife Lake Dairy Bar. They socialize with nicer. That’s exactly why the Fredericks fam- the locals and visitors until sunset. As dusk ily of Jenison, Michigan has been coming to approaches, one can see the fireflies, hear the Fife Lake for several generations. In the early frogs croaking nearby and the crickets chirp- 1960s, they purchased a cabin on Fife Lake, ing in the distance. The local band begins to and their 4th of July tradition began. They play, as the excitement and anticipation build. definitely look forward to coming each year. Then, gazing up into the clear night sky at the The local farmers’ market is a favorite stop incredible, mesmerizing, pyrotechnics burst- for many, myself included. Fresh strawber- Ryan Hangesbach brought his children up North for ing among the stars that are actually visible ries, local honey, and baked goods are some the Best 4th in the North, Kate 2 yrs old, Lydia 5 yrs because there isn’t the pollution up north that of my favorites to buy for the 4th of July. Fife old, and Audrey 7 years old, they especially loved the one encounters in the big cities. Next year, Lake has a great parade, without the glitz and parade. Audrey said, " It's fun to compare what my consider experiencing and enjoying your 4th sisters and I got, and if I get too much up north. You’ll be glad you did. glam of the big city. I can give them some."

Ryan Hangesbach, from Westphalia, brought his children, Katie age 2, Lydia age 5, and Audrey age 7, to enjoy the Best 4th in the North. Audrey said, “It’s just so much fun running to get the candy, sometimes I don’t even see the people on the float. I see the candy.” Lydia said, “My favorite is the parade, and candy.” How about all the people sporting red, white, and blue, in support of our great country? Well, that is what James and Brenda Ricketts Tawni Deike the Forest Area Color Guard Coach, of Fife Lake did. James said, “Wearing our Instructor, "Mama Deike" said, "Love the hometown country’s colors reminds me of our indepen- parade. It's a time to have fun and show our friends Wyatt Schavalia, 4 years old, sadi, "I'm a-gonna be and family what the kids can do without all the catching candy from the parade, because that is really dence.” His wife Brenda said, “Today is great, pressure. This year we even included our newly the coolest part of today, and I even have muscles to we love getting together with good friends to created junior guard comprised of 4th- 6th graders." catch a lot of candy." Kingsley Celebrates Heritage Days By Judy Kammeraad refreshments, and talking with people that KINGSLEY - Kingsley Heritage Days was stopped by. filled from start to finish with events, activi- Local resident Sue Graham stated her day off ties and fun. The event was held Saturday and with breakfast at the ROCK and watched the Sunday with activities at the Civic Center, parade. “Silent Auctions are always fun, so and Brownson Memorial Park. Organizers we put some bids on things ,but didn’t stick created a variety of family-centered fun for around so we got out-bid,” said Graham. all ages. The Kingsley Heritage Days bring people together for some summer fun while honoring the small town's heritage. Saturday and Sunday featured a flea market, Ethan Pei enjoyed free supervised target shooting with yard sales and vendors as well as many free the Kingsley Sportsman's Club. Pei said, "It was fun, kids’ activities, races and sports tournaments. but I really liked the free food like the cotton candy and Saturday featured a 7K run, bingo, cake walk, snow cones because it's such a hot day." parade, horseshoe tournament, music, and live and silent auctions. In the evening there was a the parade.” It really shows a dedication when dance held at The ROCK Youth Center. Some students show up for a summer band activity. of the Kingsley High School sports teams vol- Malia Clark 5 months old is the daughter of Alyssia unteered to run events. All the proceeds from Margaret Lewis and Donna Martin of Kingsley Clark, owner of Unique Necessities for babies and those events go directly to the team that orga- volunteer with the Lions Club International. kind. Aunt Bonnie Byers is holding Malia. nized and ran the event. The Kingsley Jazz They both helped with the pancake breakfast, Prism Band also performed at the festival. and the car show. “The Kingsley Heritage “Kelsey my daughter and my niece Marisa Band director Tom Clair said, “Thank you to Days started in the 1970’s, It took a ten year ran the 5K which was their first 5K,” added all the dedicated musicians who marched in hiatus and was revived again five years ago,” Graham. They also walked through the ven- said Martin. The ladies sat together, selling dors at the flea market, “I purchased my birthday present,” said Graham. There were over twenty vendors that gathered. They had everything from custom fudge to custom clothing, and much more. The setup was such that the kids could play at the fair while the parents shopped. These are just a few of the fun and exciting events the Kingsley Heritage Days had. “I hope they continue the Heritage Days, because it is great to get the community together,” said Margaret Lewis. Mark your Setting up the stage. Margaret and Donna visit with the passers-by. Calendars for next year so you, too, can experience Kingsley Heritage Days.

Northwest MI Voice 12 Jul 21, 2017 - Aug 3, 2017