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8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
1/16
FREE
112 E. Sixth St., PO Box 382, Gaylord, MI 49734 www.WeeklyChoice.com (989) 732-8160
Weekly ChoiceA ChoiceChoicePublication
The NehemiahProject, a spiritual-ly based communityhomeless facility in Petoskeythat has been in existence since1988. Courtesy Photo
EVENTS
Salvation Army Bell
Rings are a won-derful part of the
sights and sounds of
the holiday season. Discover
some of the history behind this
120-year-old tradition.
NehemiahProject
Positive News,
Sports andEvents
$#!&)!"
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#%!!%!"%!!!!!$
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20/20 PROJECT
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Never mind all the decorations, a Christmas tree looks fine with just a little snow on
it needles, and a big red bow, as demonstrated here at Martells Northwoods Tree
Farm. Keith Martell and daughter in law, Kate (Menkes) Martell.
$2.00 OFF$5.00 OFF
LOCATIONS INGAYLORD, GRAYLING, PETOSKEY,
EAST JORDAN & BOYNE CITY
*One coupon per customer. Not valid on Mondays
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OUTLET LOCATIONSCHATTERS MOBIL~ATLANTA
NORTHEND GROCERY~FREDERICCARDINAL PARTY STORE~GAYLORDSCHNAPPS & HOPS~GAYLORD
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HILLTOP PARTY MART~HILLMANKEN'S MARKET & GAS~INDIAN RIVER
BUSY BEE~JOHANNESBURGTOMS MARKET~ONAWAY
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Covering 40 Towns in Northern Michigan including Gaylord, Petoskey,
Cheboygan, Grayling, Lewiston, Mancelona, Mio, Indian River and surrounding area.
Choosing, and Caring for,that Special Tannenbaum
Photo by Jim AkAns
SalvationArmy BellRinging
Photo by Jim AkAns
Theres nothing quite like the
sounds of holiday music to lift
ones spirits to the joy and won-
derment of this festive season.
On Saturday evening, December
17th, the musical spirit of the holi-
days will be soaring high as eight
different musical performances;
including choruss, orchestras,
In loving memory' of all children
who are no longer with us, The
Compassionate Friends extends an
invitation for you, your family and
friends to join tens of thousands of per-
sons around the globe for the tenth
annual Worldwide Candle Lighting. You
are invited to bring a memory of your
child or pregnancy or a photo of your
child to be placed on the memory
board for the evening.
This event will be held at the
Evangelical Free (E-Free) Church in
Gaylord, located at 1649 M-32 East, on
Sunday, December 11th at 6:30 pm.
The Compassionate Friends (TCF),
Otsego County Chapter, sponsors of
this gathering, also urge people to
Light a candle wherever you are at 7
pm around the globe, in honor of all
children who have died ...that their
SEE CANDLE LIGHTING PAGE 4A
By Jim Akans
O Christmas Tree, O
Christmas Tree, Your branchesgreen delight us.
So begins one of the Christmas
seasons most treasured carols.
Yet with so many tree species to
choose from, and so many nee-
dles to sweep off the floor, how
can the fearless Christmas tree
hunter and gatherer be sure the
enduring holiday symbol that
graces their abode will indeed
offer delight throughout the yule-
tide season?
First of all, notes Keith
Martell of Martells Northwoods
Tree Farm in Gaylord, when
shopping for a tree, be sure to a sk
when it was cut. Many of the
Christmas trees sold in lots werecut as long ago as October, so
they are almost two months old
already. So its no wonder people
get disappointed when needles
begin to fall off as soon as they
get the tree home. Our trees are
definitely fresh cutweve been
told by some customers that our
trees actually sprout new growth
after being placed in the stand!
Ah, freshness, like when select-
ing produce, is the first consider-
ation. Yet if unsure about a trees
SEE CHRISTMAS TREE PAGE 4A
A ChristmasCollage HolidayConcert event at
Gornick Auditorium
Thats Our
ChristmasTree!
STORY
PAGE 10
GAYLORD1390 Main St. West
989-732-8200
NOW OPEN in Petoskey1327 Spring St. (in the K-Mart Plaza)
231-348-9600
The grand finale, featuring all of the talented group that performed throughout
the evening, was a highlight of the 2010 Christmas Collage concert.
ASE Certified Master Technicians
4LOCATIONSTO SERVE
YOU1641 S. Otsego, Gaylord 5615 M-72 West, Grayling
2663 US 23 South, Alpena 306 S. Third, Rogers City
Featuring
Inside...
SEE COLLAGE PAGE 4A
TheWorldwi
deCandleLightingServiceofRemembrance
at E-Free Churchthis Sunday
THIS WEEK
IN SPORTS
2011
TOPCHOICE
ALLAREA
VOLLEYBALL
TEAM
STORY
PAGE 2
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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Page 2 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! December 8, 2011
CALL (989) 732-8160 FAX (888) 854-7441
EMAIL [email protected] NEWS FROM NORTHERN MICHIGANLocal NewsThrsda, December 8, 2011 Lcal News Line (989) 732-8160
In 1891, a Salvation Army captain in SanFrancisco resolved to provide a freeChristmas dinner to the areas poor. But how
would he pay for the food?From his days as a sailor in Liverpool,
England, the captain remembered a largepot, displayed on the Stge landing, calledSimpsons Pot, where passerby would tosscharitable donations. The captain presentedhis idea to city authorities and received per-mission to place a similar pot at the Oaklandferry landing at the foot of San FranciscosMarket Place.
In its conspicuous position, the pot drewthe attention of people going to and fromthe ferryboats. Another urn, in the ferryboat
waiting room, also attracted donations.Thus, Captain Joseph Mcfee launched a tra-dition that spread throughout the UnitedStates and then around the world.
By Christmas 1895, thirty Salvation Armycorps in the West Coast area used the kettle.That year, The Sacramento Bee published adescription of the Armys Christmas activi-ties and mentioned the contributions. Two
young Salvation Army officers, William A.McIntyre and N.J. Lewis, instrumental in theoriginal use of the kettle, took the idea to theEast Coast.
In 1897, McIntyre prepared his Christmas
plans for Boston around the kettle. OtherArmy officers did not want to participate f or
fear of making spectacles of themselves.Nevertheless, McIntyre, with his wife and sis-ter, set up three kettles on Washinton Streetin the heart of the city. That year, the kettleeffort in Boston and other locations nation-
wide resulted in 150,000 Christmas dinnersfor the needy.
In 1898, The New York World hailed theSalvation Army kettle as the newest andmost novel device for collecting money.The newspaper also observed, There is aman in charge to see that contributions arenot stolen.
In 1901, kettle contributions in New YorkCity provided funds for the first mammothsit-down diner in Madison Square Garden, acustom that continued for many years.Today, families are often given grocerychecks for food baskets so they can preparedinners at home. The homeless poor are stillinvited to share holiday dinners and festivi-ties at hundreds of Salvation Army centers.
Kettles now are used around the world,including Korea, Japan, Chile and Europe.Everywhere, public contributions to the ket-tles enable The Salvation Army to bring thespirit of Christmas to people who would oth-erwise be forgotten the aged and lonely, ill,poor and disadvantaged, or inmates of jailsand other institutions.
In the United States, The Salvation s Armyannually aids more than 6 million people at
Thanksgiving and Christmas. Kettles havechanged since that first utilitarian cauldronin San Francisco. Today, some kettles havesuch devices as a self-ringing bell, a booth
with a system that broadcasts Christmas car-ols, even the capability for donors to use
credit cards! Though here in NorthernMichigan, the familiar sight of a Salvation
Army volunteer ringing their bell throughout
the holiday season is a tradition that
endures.
Whatever the innovation, though, the
same message Sharing is Caring still sup-
ports this timeless enduring program.
Photo by Jim Akans
Recently appointed Salvation Army Business Manager in Otsego County,Brian Jergenson, and Debbie Dunham, member of the Advisory Board, greet-ed the many guests last Tuesday attending the annual Salvation Army Soup &Sandwich Luncheon, a fundraiser for the Salvation Army and prelude to RedKettle Campaign. The event was hosted by the Gaylord Elks Lodge, who
offered their newly renovated facility for the gathering, as they graciously havefor the past several years.
Annual Salvation ArmySoup & Sandwich Luncheon
held last Tuesday
N O R T H E R N M I C H I G A N
Salvation Army Bell Ringers carry on120-year-old tradition
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Actual vehicles may not be as pictured. All rebates assigned to dealer. Cruze, Lacrosse, Malibu andSilverado are based on lease payments with approved credit through Ally Bank, 39 Months, 12,000miles/year, $1000 down plus tax and start up fees. Sonic and Colorado are based on approvedcredit of 75 months finance contract with $1000 down. All rebates assigned to dealer, plus tax,title, license and fees. All payments require GM Employee Discount eligibility.
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Liz HardingSales
We offer...Residential Commercial
Carpet Vinyl Rugs Hardwood
Ceramic Laminate Window Fashions
QUALITY EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE
(989) 731-2003 FX (989) 731-9949
www.hickersonfloor.com
2234 M-32 West,Gaylord, MI 49735
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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December 8, 2011 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 3
WEATHER:
Thursday
High 24
Low 17
Friday
High 21
Low 16
Saturday
High 26
Low 25
Sunday
High 32
Low 27
Monday
High 34
Low 25
Tuesday
High 30
Low 24
RECORD TEMPERATURESDecember Avg. Avg. Record Record
Day Sunrise Sunset High Low Mean High Low
8 8:04 AM 4:57 PM 32F 19F 25F 49F (1966) -6F (1983)
9 8:05 AM 4:57 PM 32F 18F 25F 52F (1952) -3F (1962)
10 8:06 AM 4:57 PM 31F 18F 25F 46F (1971) -10F (1958)
11 8:07 AM 4:57 PM 31F 18F 24F 47F (1979) -13F (1977)
12 8:07 AM 4:57 PM 31F 17F 24F 48F (1990) -13F (1988)
13 8:08 AM 4:57 PM 30F 17F 24F 48F (1991) -15F (1960)
14 8:09 AM 4:57 PM 30F 17F 23F 57F (1975) -1F (1963)
15 8:10 AM 4:58 PM 30F 16F 23F 51F (1997) -4F (1958)
16 8:10 AM 4:58 PM 30F 16F 23F 47F (1997) -7F (1989)
17 8:11 AM 4:58 PM 29F 16F 22F 42F (2006) -9F (1981)
18 8:12 AM 4:59 PM 29F 15F 22F 39F (1997) -3F (1985)
Photos by Jim Akans
The weather may have been a bit frightful, but the joy and
excitement among the crowd at the Annual Santa Parade and
Shop & Stroll event in downtown Gaylord was absolutely
delightful last Saturday afternoon.
G A Y L O R D
Santa arrived at the end of the parade aboard an Otsego County FireDepartment truck and the children (as well as many of the adults) were
absolutely thrilled to see St. Nick.Gaylord Mayor John Jenkins presented Santa withthe key to the city.
Left: Emma,Tristan, Paytonand SummerGlasby were
among the first
of manychildren who
waited patientlyin line to visit
with Santaunder theGaylordpavilion.
The Harmonie Meisters serenade Santa, and thecrowd, under the pavilion during last Saturdays
event.
The Gaylord pavilion was sporting a whole new lookfor the Santa Parade and Shop & Stoll event, withthe newly installed decorative canvas sides helping
to keep things a bit warmer inside the pavilion duringthe event.
Santa arrives in Gaylord during
Annual Parade and Shop & Strolllast Saturday
LOCAL NEWSOn-line at www.weeklychoice.com
Published Weekly on Thursday.Afton, Alanson, Alba, Atlanta, Black Lake, Bliss, Brutus, Burt Lake, Carp Lake,
Cheboygan, Comins, Conway, Cross Village, Elmira, Fairview, Frederic, Gaylord,
Good Hart, Grayling, Harbor Point, Indian River, Johannesburg, Lakes of the
North, Levering, Lewiston, Lovells, Luzerne, Mackinaw City, Mancelona, Mio,
Oden, Onaway, Pellston, Petoskey, Topinabee, Tower, Vanderbilt, Vienna Corners,
Waters, Wolverine
Deadline Monday Noon.
Place Classified ads on-line at
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Notice to Readers: Typically, most advertising is honest and clear about special offers, however, pleasebe sure to read the contents thoroughly to avoid misrepresentation. Choice Publications does not war-ranty the accuracy or reliability of content and does not accept any liability for injuries or damages
caused to the reader or advertiser that may result from content contained in this publication. Errors inadvertising should be reported immediately. Damage fromerrors will not exceed the cost of the advertisement for oneissue. Choice Publication employees and family membersand listed advertisers employees and family members arenot eligible to win. Choice Publications reserves the right topublish or refuse ads at their discretion.
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8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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Page 4 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! December 8, 2011
LOCAL NEWSOn-line at www.weeklychoice.com
Christmas Tree Continued...freshness, there is a simple trick to help opti-
mize the trees ability to draw water after its
been placed in tree stand.
When you get the tree home, if its not
fresh-cut, Keith observes, saw about one-
half inch off base. That reopens the pores sothe tree can draw water freely. The tree
should use over a gallon of water the first
day. And never let a tree run low on water. A
fresh cut tree will last for at least a month if
kept hydrated.
What about species?
Among the most popular species are
Frasier Fir, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, Blue
Spruce Norway Spruce, Scotch Pine, Eastern
White Pine and Concolor. Generally speak-
ing, Firs tend to retain their needles best,
Spruces have stiffer branches (especially
good for heavy, homemade ornaments),
Scotch Pine has good needle retention and
sturdy branches (though the needles a re
sharp) and Concolor hold needles well and
have a slight, citrus odor, which is refresh-ingly unique.
Another option is a live tree, notes Betsy
Berry of Twigs & Blooms in Gaylord, who has
a limited number of live trees still available,
as well as several wreaths, garlands and
grave blankets. That way you have some-
thing left after the season. The limit, howev-
er, is about two days in the house or it will go
dormant. After being inside, its important
to slowly bring the tree back out to the cold
by keeping it in the garage for a few days.You should have the hole dug and covered
before the ground freezes so you can plant
it.
Dave Gearhart, of North Star Trees, Inc. a
wholesale tree grower in Wolverine, advises
that even a fresh cut tree should not always
be brought indoors too hastily.
If you pick a tree when it is very cold, its a
good idea to let it set in the garage for several
hours so it thaws. He adds, It can be easier
getting the tree into the house while it is still
baled, set it in the stand, and then cut the
baling twine. Also, keep the tree away from
heat registers and other heat sources. Wood
heat and spaced heaters are especially dam-
aging to a tree because its a drying heat. A
humidifier is a good idea to put moisture
back into the air. The very most importantthing is to be sure the tree always has a
source of water.
And dont forget to add a wreath to that
holiday greenery dcor. The term hails from
the Middle English word; wrethe, defining
a twisted band or ring of leaves or flowers ina garland. The circular shape symbolizes
eternal life, and the addition of holly can be
traced back to the ancient Druid Priests, who
considered holly sacred.
Above all, buy a tree from a reputable mer-
chant and dont hesitate to ask questionsregarding tree selection and care. Finding
that special tree should be an exciting
adventure, and as Charlie Brown demon-
strates year after yeareach Christmas tree
has its own special character.
ensemble groups and soloists will present a
tapestry of festive holiday sounds as the
Gaylord Area Council for the Arts (GACA)
presents A Christmas Collage concert at
Gornick Auditorium in Gaylord. This is the
second year in a row GACA has offered this
holiday musical treat, and this years event
promises to be even bigger than last yearssuccessful show.
Trish Duley, President of GACA, states,
One of the most attractive aspects of this
event is that those who attend get the benefit
of experiencing a wide variety of music, from
all age groups, all in one concert. That's
pretty special when you think about it.
Its very special indeed. This year the
Christmas Collage musical line-up will
include;
Its very special indeed. This year the
Christmas Collage musical line-up will
include;
- The Alpine Bells directed by Dawn
Leichtnam
- The Gaylord Community Band directed
by Ralph Schweigert- The Harmonie Meisters directed by Dale
Hanson
- Gaylord Youth Orchestra under the
direction of Wayne Wyrembelski
- The Community Chorus directed by Jan
Johnson
- The Gaylord Community Orchestradirected by Jim Van Eizenga
- A Childrens Chorus directed by Aaron
Hotelling
- Plus a special solo vocal performance by
Gaylord High School Chorus Director, Chris
Hodges
Each performance will move seamlessly tothe next, creating a rich, continuously
changing musical program. As with last
years warmly received concert, the
Christmas Collage will culminate with a
grand finale featuring a ll of these talented
musicians performing together on stage.
This is a rare opportunity to enjoy such a
wide range of talented area musicians in a
single performance setting. The wonderful
variety of musical styles, genres and formats,
from rich vocal harmonies to intricate
instrumental tones and textures, is certain to
set the stage for a very memorable holiday
concert experience.A Christmas Collage performances will
begin at 7:30 pm, and the concert is antici-
pated to run approximately 90 minutes.
Tickets, which are just $5 per person, may be
purchase up until noon on Friday, December
16th at Saturn Booksellers, Musik Haus, the
Gaylord Information Center and the
Community Arts Center. There may be a
limited quantity of tickets still available at
the door at Gornick Auditorium the night of
the performance, December 17th.
We choose to keep the price very afford-
able, adds Trish Duley. The Gaylord Area
Council for the Arts sees this as our gift to
the communitywe want everyone to be
able to enjoy the holiday music.
Dont miss the opportunity to attend thisunique holiday musical evening at Gornick
Auditorium. For further information, visit
the GACA website at www.garlordarts.org.
Candle Lightingcontinued...
Dont forget to add a wreath, a symbol of growth and eternal life, to that holiday
greenery dcor.
light may always shine.
TCF is an international, nonprofit, self-help support
organization, which offers friendship, understanding, and
hope to families who are grieving the death of a child. The
mission of the Compassionate Friends is to assist f amilies
toward the positive resolution of grief following the death of
a child of any age and to provide information to help others
be supportive.
In the event of inclement weather please tune to Eagle
101.5 WMJZ for information. A make up date of Monday,December 12th at 6:30 has been set aside if needed.
For further information call (989) 732-5027.
Photo by Jim AkAns
The Gaylord Youth Orchestra, under the direction of Wayne Wyrembelski, will be
among the musical performers at A Christmas Collage held at the Gornick
Auditorium on Saturday, December 17th.
Photo by Jim AkAns
Collage continued...
Sunday, December 11from 12-3
Book your own appointment on line at www.akhairstudio.com
or call 989-732-1000
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
5/16
Strawberry Patch ReSale-Consignment
helps Mio area residentsbuy and sell quality goods
LOCAL NEWSOn-line at www.weeklychoice.com
H I D D E N T R E A S U R E S
Patch ReSale-Consignment store offers area residents an excellent opportunity to sell their
quality used items, and purchase a wide variety of clothing and household goods at very
reasonable prices.
The Strawberry Patch ReSale-Consignment Shop is located in Downtown Mio next to
the Rite Aid store, and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am until 6 pm.
To add your business listing E-Mail of
f
ice@Week
l
yC
hoice.com
BOYNE CITY
Challenge Mountain
Resale Shop1158 S. M-75
Boyne City
231-582-5711
www.challengemtn.org
CHARLEVOIX
Consign Design100 Van Pelt Pl., Charlevoix231-237-9773www.consigndesign.net
Bergmann CenterResale Shop8888 Ance Road231-547-9624www.bergmanncenter.org
Kellys Antiques &Furniture Barn06176 Old US 31 S., Charlevoix
231-547-0133www.dkellyantiques.com
ELLSWORTH
Good SamaritanFurniture & More Store6517 Center St.Downtown Ellsworth231-588-2208thegoodsam.org
FREDERIC
Pineview Military Surplus7328 Old 27 NorthFrederic989-348-8300
GAYLORD
A-2-Z Resale1829 Old 27 South,
Gaylord989-732-9500
Goodwill Retail andDonation Center
1361 Pineview Dr. (near Lowes)Gaylord989-705-1747www.goodwillnmi.org
Great RoomsQuality Pre-Owned Furniture148 W. Main StreetGaylord989-745-5184www.greatroomsgaylord.com
GAYLORD
Angels at WorkResale1523 S Otsego Ave.Gaylord989.448.8615
Venus & Blue Jeans340 West Main St.Gaylord989-731-2600www.venusandbluejeans.com
HARBOR SPRINGS
New Beginnings Thrift Shop650 W Conway Rd.Harbor Springs231-348-2980
Habitat forHumanity Restore8460 M-119
Harbor Springs
231-347-8440
HARBOR SPRINGS
Quality Sports & Tools
Consignment1221 W Conway Rd.
Harbor Springs
231-487-0152
www.qtsconsignments.com
INDIAN RIVER
Finders Keepers Antiques& Consignment Shop3639 S. Straits Hwy.
Indian River
231-238-5000
MANCELONA
Mancelona Food Pantry
& Resale Shop201 N. Maple St.
Mancelona
231-587-9606
MIO
Strawberry Patch ReSale ConsignmentDowntown Mio989-826-1503
ONAWAY
Second Chance Thrift Store20420 State St., Onaway989-733-9671
PETOSKEY
Challenge Mountain
Resale Shop2429 US31 North, Petoskey231-348-3195www.challengemtn.org
Goodwill Retail andDonation Center1600 Anderson RoadPetoskey231-348-6947www.goodwillnmi.org
Hidden TreasuresNorthern Michigan Treasure Hunters Guide to areaantique, consignment, resale and thrift shops
In the Rough, Professionally Paintedor Completely Restored
Over 7,000 sq. ft. of Furniture, Ant iques & Goodies
06176 Old U.S. 31 South, Charlevoix, MI 49720
E-Mail: [email protected]
FURNITURE BARN
(231) 547-0133 Cell (231) 8 81-0353
Web: dkellyantiques.com
CUSTOM & ANTIQUEFURNITURE
December 8, 2011 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 5
Photo CourtEsy of toni millEr
Photo CourtEsy of toni millEr
TERRIFIC KIDSAll kids are terrific and here at South Maple Elementary and North Ohio Elementary we are acknowledging kids for good character. The Kiwanis club of Otsego County is helping us with this
endeavor. Students who exhibit good behavior by following our school rules will be recognized by staff for doing so. One student per class will be selected to receive a Terrific Kid award, button,and pencil. The student names will be announced on our morning announcements. They will also have their picture taken to hang on our Terrific Kid bulletin board. This is an excellent oppor-tunity for staff, students, parents and the community to connect on a social/emotional level because good character is just as important as good grades!
here are te
terrific kid
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maple
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12-2-11
Back row: Judy (Kiwanis), Emily Heffner, Riley DeFeyter, Bridget Sucharski, Ashley Zack, LukeDipzinski, Joe Boswood, Fred (Kiwanis).Middle row: Dawson Edmonds, Makayla Willson, Jake
Butler, Skylar Rhoades, Alana Knepper, Nicholas Fischer, Emily Schlak. Front row: Kaylee
Berkshire, Cyntia Miley, Chelsea Moore, Joe Fox. Absent: Bridgette Peak, Marcus Granger
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terrific kid
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Eleetary
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Front Row: Taylor Moegenberg; Makayla Conrady; Savannah Wilson; Yasmean Dorris;
Brendan Foy; Reagan Kowalsky; Nazhae Dorchy; Blake Smithling;Tyler Budzinski; EmilyLamblin. Back Row: Anna Baker; Lily Graham; Reid Davis; Rowan Anderson; Melissa
Tomko; Eliana Hoggard; Jacquelynn Short; Emma Zinke; Kiwanian, Mr. Chuck Bump and
his Terrific Dog, Roxi
989-732-9501
Toll Free 877-407-4446
Where your pet is treated with respect and dignity.
989-370-3378 or
989-370-0951
Old Fashioned
Family Fun Horse Drawn
Sleighrides
Rustic Cabin Dinners
Reservations Required
Gaylord
CALL SLEIGHRIDE CENTRAL
By Jim Akans
Established in their present location inDowntown Mio approximately seven yearsago, Strawberry Patch ReSale-Consignmentstore offers area residents an excellentopportunity to sell their quality used items,and purchase a wide variety of clothing andhousehold goods at very reasonable prices.The shop, which was founded by SharonGardulski, Pastor of the Freedom WorshipCenter, is operated by a dedicated group ofthirteen volunteer from the Mio area.
We have many different types of items inthe store, states Gardulski. That includesfurniture, appliances and other householditems, and we have a lot of new and usedclothing, including coats in mens, womensand childrens sizes, as well as several itemsthat would make excellent Christmas gifts.
The inventory at Strawberry Patch ReSale-Consignment is brought in by local individ-uals who receive 40-percent of the amountthose items sell for. Strawberry Patch takescare of the tagging and marketing of thoseitems, and after a 60 day period, unsoldclothing is sent to an Amish warehouse facil-ity that distributes that clothing to people inneed all over the world.
Our location is a great resource for peo-ple in the Mio area, observes Gardulski.Major shopping areas, such as Gaylord,
Alpena and West Branch, are all an hour ormore drive away. So this is a convenient,local spot where people can make someextra money selling items, and shop for a
wide assortment of clothing and householditems.
The Strawberry Patch ReSale-Consignment Shop is located in DowntownMio next to the Rite Aid store. The facility isopen Monday through Saturday from 10 amuntil 6 pm. For additional information,please call (989) 826-1503.
Positive Commentsfrom our ReadersWe encourage our readers to submit positive comments
about a person or business in Northern Michigan. Send
your positive comments to [email protected]
Sharon is an AngelRecently, someone asked me if I knew
anyone that I considered to be an angel on
earth and instantly I thought of my friend
Sharon Techel. I first met Sharon when I had
the pleasure to work with her a t Kmart
pharmacy in 1993. Sharon and I worked
very closely together in a small, intimate
setting and I became acutely aware of what
a caring and compassionate person she is
and how she was able to touch the hearts of
everyone she came in contact with because
of her loving manner. She was my right arm
at the pharmacy and over time we shared all
the details of our lives including much
laughter and many tears. Sharon was right
there for me when I met my husband, got
married and had my first two children. She
filled in for my own family and threw myfirst and only baby shower. I watched her
children grow into beautiful and productive
citizens as well and learned a lot about
good parenting from her.
After Kmart, Sharon and I were able to
work together at Nelsons Drug Store until
they closed and then again at Wal-Mart
where Sharon still works. Sharon is one of
those rare and special people that seem to
be illuminated by an inner light. I Believe
that light comes from her faith in GOD and
the fact that she cares so deeply about peo-
ple and always reaches out to others. All of
our customers knew Sharon by name and
knew that she would go the extra mile for
each of them including hand-delivering
medication to shut-ins and attending the
senior dances at Alten Zimmer. I know that
GOD is supposed to love us all equally but I
have a hard time believing that he might not
favor Sharon just a little bit because she is
so faithful and because she tries so hard to
do the right thing all the time and because
she is truly a good person..beautiful
inside and out! I know that I do!
Amy Beningo, Rph Glens Pharmacy
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Page 6 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! December 8, 2011
LOCAL NEWSNew stories updated daily on-line at www.weeklychoice.com
GRAYLINGDriver Safety ProgramThursday, December 8thfrom 8:30am -4:30pm at theCrawford County
Commission on Aging &Grayling Senior Center. Aclassroom driver refreshercourse for drivers aged 50and older. AARP developedthis course to help driversimprove their skills and pre-vent crashes. This coursecovers the age-related physi-cal changes in perceptionand reaction time, local driv-ing problems and rules of theroad. The certified AARP vol-unteer instructors will bepresenting this coursethrough a combination ofgroup discussion and video-tapes. There are no tests, andall participants who com-
plete the course will receive acertificate of completion thatmay be eligible for an auto-mobile insurance discount.The fee for this course is $12for members and $14 fornon-members with checksmade payable to AARP. There
will not be a fee for Veterans.For more information or toregister please call 348-7123.Sponsored by the CCCommission on Aging.
GAYLORDCookies for a CauseThe Northern Lights is host-ing a benefit for theFriendship Housing CenterDec. 8 at First CongregationalChurch, 218 W. 2nd St. at6:30pm. Enjoy cookies bever-ages and listen to local talent.Donation will benefit theFriendship shelter.
GRAYLINGBusiness after hoursSponsored by Smith &
Associates, P.C. and The OleBarn, Thursday, December8th from 5:30 7:30pm at TheOle Barn Entry Fee: $5 costfor Members and the $10 costfor Not-Yet-Members. DoorPrizes, 50/50 Raffle, Food,Networking & More!!
PETOSKEYVitalCare Adult Day
Center Open HouseThe VitalCare Adult DayCenter will host an openhouse with light refresh-ments from 4-6pm on
Thursday, December 8. VitalCare, an affiliate ofNorthern Michigan RegionalHealth System, has moved tothe former Benjamin B. BlumHospitality House located at525 West Mitchell Street inPetoskey. In addition tohousing the Adult DayCenter, the building is alsothe new headquarters of the
VitalCare nursing office.
CHARLEVOIXSingles for ChristSingles for Christ dinnergroup for all area singles 50
years and older will meetFriday, December 9 at 5pm at
Grey Gables, 308 Belvedere.Bring a $10 gift and 2 dozenChristmas Cookies as we willbe going to Yvonnes, 4105Sequanota Rd. after dinnerfor a movie and/or games.Reservations required soR.S.V.P. by calling Frieda at231-347-5747 or e-mail [email protected]
GAYLORDHockey seasonpassesGHS Blue Devil Hockey adultseason passes ($50) and stu-dent season passes ($30)available at Gaylord HighSchool or call Mary at 989-
732-4981. Includes 12 homegames. Join us for the homeopener weekend games on12/9 and 12/10.
GAYLORDPet picturesGet your pets picture taken
with Santa! Saturday,December 10th, 10am 2pmat Wags to Whiskers PetSupply. All proceeds go toFriends for Life of OtsegoCounty.
INDIAN RIVERBazaarIndian River Eagles Bazaar,Sat Dec. 10, 10am - 5pm.Lunch 11-3 at Eagles Hall,
5743 S. Straits Hwy. Raffles,lots of items for sale. Do youhave stuff to sell? Tables, $15.231-238-7589, Shirley. AllProceeds for cancer.
HARBOR SPRINGSHoliday Open HouseJoin the merchants of down-town Harbor Springs Dec. 10,6-9pm for their annual cele-bration of the holiday sea-son. Events include livemusic, in-store specials, spe-cial dining, and more.
GAYLORDFree Massage Day
Ahhhh....it's time for one ofour favorite days of the year -our semi-annual free mas-sage day Dec. 10! Saturn cus-tomers (you must show areceipt from today's book-
store purchases) can enjoy afree, 10-minute chair mas-sage from our friends atKneaded Relief! Relax those
weary, book-totin' shoulders.At Saturn Booksellers, down-town.
GRAYLINGCoats for kidsThe Kiwanis Club of Graylingis now collecting Coats forKids. Collection boxes arebeing placed at many differ-ent places around town as
well as at the GraylingChamber Office. Collection
will run through the 2ndweek of December.
GRAYLINGA Christmas CarolSaturday, December 10th at7pm and Sunday, December11th at 2pm at KirtlandCenter -Celebrate the season
with music, caroling, art dis-plays, seasonal refreshments,family fun and a movingpresentation of this quintes-sential story of redemptionperformed by the KirtlandCommunity Theatre. TicketPrices: $16 (A/B) & $12 (C/D).Raise money for your churchor non-profit organization
with a ticket sales drive foreither performance of A
Christmas Carol. Your groupwill earn $5 for every ticket itsells to benefit your cause.Call for details 989-275-5000ext. 375 or visit http://pub-lic.serviceu.com/ticketing
PETOSKEYSenior danceThe Cedar Swamp Boys willreturn for a dance sponsoredby the Retired & Senior
Volunteer Program (RSVP) onSunday, December 11 from2pm to 5pm at the PetoskeyFriendship Center. Music willbe played for round dances,
waltzes and squares, anddancers with all levels of
dancing ability will be out onthe floor having a good time.These dances are also popu-lar with non-dancers whoenjoy listening to good musicin the company of goodfriends. The public is invited.
Admission is $4. Attendeesare asked to bring finger foodto share; beverages will beprovided. Please note thatthe dance will be cancelled ifthe weekend brings 3 ormore of new snow. For moreinformation, contact theFriendship Centers of EmmetCounty Council on Aging at(231) 347-3211 or (888) 347-0369.
GAYLORDBreakfast with SantaThe Knights of Columbusinvite you to have breakfast
with Santa on Sunday, Dec.
11 from 9:30am 12:30pm.Held at the K of C Hall on
Wilkinson Road. Breakfast isall you can eat includingscrambled eggs, pancakes,ham, potatoes, sausage, bis-cuits & gravy and pastries.
Adults $7. Children under 12free. Everyone welcome
GAYLORDLight a candle for chil-dren who have diedThe Otsego County chapterof Compassionate Friends ishosting service of remem-brance as part of a worldwidecandle lighting at theEvangelical Free Church, M-
32 East on Dec. 11 at 6:30pm.This service is in lovingmemory of children who areno longer with us. You areinvited to bring a photo ormemory of your child orpregnancy to place on thememory board for theevening.
GAYLORDSaks WellnessseminarLearn about what we do at aseminar Dec. 13 at Saks
Wellness Center, 1477 S.Otsego. The session begins at6:30pm.
PETOSKEYStaying Financially FitNorthwest MichiganCommunity Action Agency
will be hosting a workshopon Staying Financially Fit onDecember 13, from 6pm to9pm, as part of a series of
workshops on financial fit-ness. The series workshopsare offered free to the publicat NMCAA, 2202 MitchellPark. To register or to find outabout the future workshops,please call 231-347-9070.
GAYLORDWeight Loss
ChallengeFour Star Nutrition hasannounced that they willhold a 21 Day Weight LossChallenge starting December14. call 989-448-8618 formore info. or to sign up
GRAYLINGChristmas DinnerThe Community is invited toattend a Christmas Dinner atthe Commission on Aging &Senior Center on Thursday,December 15th from 4-6pm.Menu includes Roast Beef
with Gravy, Parsley Redskins,Peas & Pearl Onions, FruitCocktail and Minted
Brownies. The meal is only$5.25 per person with a sug-gested donation of $2.50 forpeople over 60. Dinner isopen to the public. TheSenior Center is located at308 Lawndale St.; Grayling.For more information con-tact the Senior Center at(989) 348-7123.
GRAYLINGCookie & Soup JarsThe Commission on Aging &Senior Center has Cookieand Soup Mixes in a Jar forsale. Cookie and Soup Jarsare selling for $5 each. These
jars made wonderful gifts for
the Holidays. All proceeds goto support the Programs and
Activities at the Commission
on Aging & Senior Center.Cookie Jars are available inlocal Businesses and at theSenior Center. For moreinformation you may contact
Helen at 348-7123.
PETOSKEYMessiahGreat Lakes Chamberorchestra presents theMessiah Dec. 15 & 16, 7pm atSt. Francis Xavier, Petoskey.General Adm. $14 advanced$15 at the door. Students 18 &under, people with disabili-ties & active Military Free
Adm. Advanced Tickets avail-able on Treatickets.com or bycalling GLCO @ 231-487-0010
GAYLORDChristmas light tourDecember 15 The Otsego
County Commission onAging along with the OtsegoCounty Bus System invites
you to take part in theChristmas Light Tour from 6-7:30pm; register by calling989-732-9977.
GAYLORDCraft showThe Lat Minute ShoppersDelight Holiday Craft Show isFriday, Dec. 16 Sunday,Dec. 18 at the WisconsinStreet Hall (former JimmyJukebox & Jets Pizza) 610South Wisconsin St.. Hours:Friday, 4-8pm, Saturday, 9am 5pm, Sunday, 10am 4pm.
Tons of holiday crafts! Doorprize drawing on Sunday at4pm. Enter every day. Bring
your camera and take pic-tures of your children visiting
with Santa.
GAYLORDBlood driveDecember 16 at GaylordEvangelical Free Church tohost a Blood Drive fromnoon 5:45pm.
GAYLORDCommunity orchestrarehearsalThe Gaylord Community
Orchestra has begun rehears-ing for the ChristmastimeCommunity Concert on Dec.17. The string section isrehearsing in the band roomat St. Mary School on N.Otsego from 7-8:30pm eachMonday. The winds and per-cussion will join theserehearsals in a few weeks. Forinfo call Gary Waldo, 989-619-3136 or Joanna Bozin989-732-3080.
EAST JORDANChristmas Art SaleJordan River Arts Council ishosting an art sale thru Dec.18, 1-4pm.
CHEBOYGANLowe FamilyChristmasSpectacular
Versatile on many instru-ments, the nine Lowes offeran amazing blend of show-stopping classical, Broadway,Irish, jazz, bluegrass, old-time favorites, spectaculardance, 6-part harmony,gospel, a stirring patriotictribute, and more! This high-energy, fast-paced varietyshow will leave you breath-less! Monday, December 19,7pm. Reserved Seating -
Adults: $30; Students: $12.50.
Please call the Opera Houseat 231-627-5841 for moreinformation or tickets
PETOSKEYHoliday Art BazaarShoppers! Visit the CrookedTree art center, 461 EastMitchell St. thru Dec. 20 forspecial items for those spe-cial people on your gift list!Best selection ever. We know
you'll find some amazing andoriginal ideas for your holi-day gift giving. Free gift wrap-ping.
GRAYLINGChristmas Carol SingA LongPlease join us for dinner atthe Commission on Aging &Senior Center on Tuesday,December 20th at 5:00 pmfollowed a Christmas CarolSing Along at 5:30 pm. Thecost of the meal is $5.25 witha suggested donation of$2.50 for seniors 60 and over.The Senior Center is locatedat 308 Lawndale St. If youneed more information callHelen Nolan at 348-7123.
GAYLORD3 on 3 BasketballTourneyOtsego County Parks andRecreation will host a holiday3 on 3 basketball tournamenton December 29th, 30th, and31st. Tournament is for 3rd -8th grade boys and girls.Each grade bracket will belimited to the first 6 teamsthat register. 4 players perteam. Each team is guaran-teed 3 games. Cost is $40 perteam. Games will be officiat-ed. Registration deadline isDec. 26. Stop by the OtsegoCounty Community Center,315 S. Center St. Gaylord orcall 989-732-6521 to register.
GRAYLINGStatewide PageantMiss Pride of the Peninsulaspageant will be held onJanuary 22nd, 2012 at 3 PM atthe Joseph Stripe Auditoriumin Grayling High School. TheMiss Pride of the PeninsulasOrganization is proud to wel-come 20 contestants fromaround the state to the pag-eant.
GRAYLINGLine dancingThe Crawford CountyCommission on Aging hasrestarted its Line Dancingclasses again this fall. Thefree classes for are facilitatedby Ann Doty. The group prac-tices weekly on Wednesdaysat 10am. No dance experi-ence is needed to attendthese classes and no sign upis necessary. For more infor-mation, contact the SeniorCenter at (989) 348-7123
GAYLORDLuggage needed forfoster kidsLutheran Child and FamilyService of Michigan is inneed of suitcases or dufflebags that are in new or likenew condition to give to thechildren in Foster Care.
Without luggage of duffelbags they often transporttheir belongings in garbagebags. For more information
at [email protected] or989-732-1040
NORTHERN MICHIGANFoster Care HomesneededThere is a shortage of homesin northern Michigan for fos-ter children needing place-ment. We prefer not to movechildren out of the schooldistrict they are living in so
we need to have homes allover. Also, we are especiallyshort of homes that acceptteenagers. Lutheran Childand Family Service ofMichigan offers a no obliga-tion orientation for parents
that are interested in open-ing their homes to foster chil-dren. We accept singles as
well as couples; working par-ents as well as stay at homeparents. For more informa-tion at [email protected] 989-732-1040.
MACKINAW CITYSenior dinnerThe Wawatam Area Senior
Center Dinner Hours have
returned to their winter
times. Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday, and Friday at 5:00
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Variety of allnatural,organic,vegan &
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This high octane fuel can also be used in newer fuel injected vehicles
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117 Lake St., Roscommon, MI 48653
HARTHARTHART
Johannesburg, MI
Ph. 989-732-6122
Cell 989-390-1404ONLINE:
dowkermech.com
Are you readyfor winter?Call us today about ourFall Clean & CheckMaintenance Service!
Clark DowkerMechanical Contractor, Boiler Installer
STATE LICENSED & FULLY INSURED
Weil McLain & Buderus Boilers Heil & Fraser-Johnston
High Efficiency Furnaces and AC Bosch Geothermal Heat Pumps
** WERE DOING WORK IN YOUR AREA **
Toll Free 866-582-6804
MacNaughtons Pest Control , Inc.
PROFESSIONAL WILDLIFE & INSECT CONTROL
DON'T YOU WANT TO BE PEST FREE??
FREEESTIMATES
ALL TYPES OF INSECTS:Ants Spiders RoachesEar Wigs Flies Termites Fleas Bees/Wasps
PESTS AND SMALL CRITTERS: Squirrels Mice SkunksRaccoons Bats Moles Exclusion Work
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Lube, Oil Changes& DetailingPRO SERVICES
AUTO & TRUCK REPAIRGaylord 989-731-4447Atlanta 989-785-4647
!
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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December 8, 2011 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 7
LOCAL NEWSNew stories updated daily on-line at www.weeklychoice.com
pm -- Salad and conversation
begins at 4:30 pm. Sunday
dinner served at 1:00 pm --
salad and conversation at
12:30.
GAYLORDDemocrats meetOtsego County Democrats
meets 3rd Tuesdays. 6 PM
United Way Building. Call
Carol at 989-732-2591 for
info.
CHEBOYGAN COUNTY
100 ClubThe Cheboygan County 100
Club proudly announces its
creation. The Cheboygan
County 100 Club is a non-
profit organization estab-
lished to provide financial
assistance to families of
Cheboygan County firefight-ers, law enforcement officers,
first responders or ambu-
lance personnel injured, dis-
abled or killed serving
Cheboygan County. Anyone
interested in making a dona-
tion or inquiring about a
membership please contact
Richard Kolb at (231) 818-
0585
GRAYLINGDeliverable FuelsAssistanceNEMCSA (Northeast
Michigan Community
Service Agency) has money
available to assist low-income families with the
delivery of fuels such as
propane, fuel oil and fire-
wood. There are guidelines
which must be followed.
Crawford County residents
who think they might qualify
should contact Beth at 1-866-
270-0687 for prescreening. If
applicants meet all eligibility
requirements, an application
will be mailed or faxed at thecustomers request. All appli-
cations are on a first come-
first served basis.
ANTRIM, CHARLEVOIX, EMMET &
OTSEGO COUNTIESMammogramsMammogram appointments
are available for low-
income/uninsured/underin-
sured women. If you have
uninsured employees or if
mammograms are not a cov-
ered benefit in their health
insurance package, please
encourage your female
employees to schedule a
mammogram at the HealthD e p a r t m e n t .
Uninsured/underinsured
women age 40 to 64 who live
in Antrim, Charlevoix,
Emmet, and Otsego counties
and who meet income guide-
lines are eligible. Income
guidelines are generous--
women from a family four
can have a household
income of nearly $56,000 and
qualify. Appointments are
available now! Call the
Health Department of
Northwest Michigan at 800-
432-4121 during regular
business hours.
Mammograms save lives!
GRAYLINGMSU NutritionEducationThe Crawford County
Commission on Aging &
Senior Center will be hosting
MSU classes on nutrition
education. The theme will be
Creating Healthy Habits
Building a Toolkit. The class-
es will deal with such topicsas Cooking for One or Two,
Enhancing Food Flavor; How
Friendly is Your Kitchen,
Treat Yourself like Company
and The Wise Consumer. The
classes will be held on
Tuesdays and Fridays in
December and January from
9:30am - 11am. The classes
are free, but you are required
to register. For more infor-
mation, contact the
Crawford County
Commission on Aging &
Senior Center at 989-348-
7123.
GAYLORDSweater DriveOtsego Memorial Hospital
has been designated as an
official drop off location for
the CMU Public Television
5th Annual Mister Rogers
Neighborhood Sweater
Drive. Community members
are encouraged to donate
new or gently-worn sweaters
to help keep each and every
one of our neighbors in the
community warm this fall
and winter season. Childrens
sweaters in particular are
needed. Partnering with
businesses in Central,
Northern and Southeast
Michigan, CMU PublicBroadcasting (WCMU) coor-
dinates the collection of
warm outerwear throughout
the months of October,
November and December.
Donated sweaters will be dis-
tributed to families who need
them by organizations in the
communities in which they
are collected. Sweaters col-
lected through Otsego
Memorial Hospital will bedistributed to members of
the community through The
Clothing Room in Gaylord.
NORTHERN MICHIGANAdvertising funds theWeekly Choice
We love to run community
announcements and news
releases about all the things
happening in Northern
Michigan in the Weekly
Choice. We help publicize
hundreds of events and
activities all across our area.
Readers love the fact that the
Weekly Choice is distributed
free to hundreds of locations.However, it is expensive to
publish this newspaper each
week filled with positive
news and sports. Our only
source of revenue comes
from advertising. If your
business or organization has
an advertising budget, be
sure to include the Weekly
Choice in your plans. Our
advertising rates are far less
than most other papers and
your message will reach
readers all across Northern
Michigan. The Weekly Choice
is distributed free of charge
on news stands to 40 towns
including Gaylord, Petoskey,
Cheboygan, Grayling, IndianRiver, Onaway, Mio,
Lewiston, Mancelona and all
surrounding towns. Contact
us at [email protected] call 989-732-8160.
GRAYLING
Toys for TotsToy donations for our
Christmas Help Program
may be dropped off at the
Christian Help Center or
placed in collection boxes
around town.
GRAYLING
Kids Coats & Socks
WantedNew socks & new or gently
used coats are now being
accepted for children of all
ages. Donations may be
dropped off at the Christian
Help Center.
GRAYLING
MSU Nutrition
EducationThe Crawford County
Commission on Aging &Senior Center will be hosting
MSU classes on nutrition
education. The theme will be
Creating Healthy Habits
Building a Toolkit. The class-
es will deal with such topics
as Cooking for One or Two,
Enhancing Food Flavor; How
Friendly is Your Kitchen,
Treat Yourself like Company
and The Wise Consumer. The
classes will be held on
Tuesdays and Fridays in
December and January from
9:30am-11:00am. The classes
are free, but you are required
to register. For more infor-
mation, contact theCrawford County
Commission on Aging &
Senior Center at (989) 348-
7123.
GAYLORD
Business after hoursThe January 11th Business
After Hours will be held at the
Gaylord Regional Airport
(Otsego County) who will
sponsor this event with
Alpine Tavern & Eatery.
CHARLEVOIX
Fiddlers & Pickers
Jamboree9th annual music fest featur-
ing area violinists, fiddlers,
guitarists and other string
instrument artists. Any string
instrument artist is invited! A
musical hoe down for fun
and laughs. Food and bever-
ages available. Proceeds fund
area youth music scholar-
ships. Jan 14, 3pm - 10pm. at
VFW HALL, 12735 US N 31
PETOSKEY
Poverty Simulation
WorkshopThe Char-Em Poverty
Reduction Initiative is invit-
ing community members to
this years Poverty Simulation
on Friday, January, 27th from
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the
Emmet County Fairgrounds
in Petoskey. Poverty
Simulation 2012 will create a
realistic model of what it is
like to experience poverty on
a day-to-day basis. For more
information about Poverty
Simulation 2012, to volun-teer goods, services, or funds,
contact United Way at 231-
487-1006 or email us at
LetTom Kuch
(formerly from Norandex)
help you find thebest siding, windows, & doors
for your home.Simonton Vinyl
Replacement WindowsCertainteed RoofingNorandex Vinyl SidingCall Tom at J-N-J Construction to getyour free estimate for professionalinstallation of quality products for
your home or business.
989-370-5738
FREEESTIMATES
Whole ShelledCornExcellent for multi-fuel
stoves and wildlife feeding
Rock Salt
$7.49 per 50 lb bagor $6.99
DELIVERYIS AVAILABLE
Mighty
Melt Ice Melter
KnoxIce Melter
when you buy20 or more.
$9.49 per 50 lb bagor $8.99 when you buy20 or more.
$7.99 per 50 lb bagor $7.49 when you buy20 or more.
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When it comes to Christmas holiday raffles, it doesnt getany bigger than the Big Brothers Big Sisters of North CentralMichigan annual Big Christmas Giveaway event. It is an
amazing opportunity towin some fantastic BIGgifts while helping toensure the continuationof the vital role and mis-sion the Big Brothers BigSisters organization pur-sues here in NorthCentral Michigan.
Only 100 tickets willbe sold at $100 each,and the incredible list of18 prize packagesincludes such awesomevalues as a one-yearfamily ski membershipat Otsego Club, a one-
year Powerhouse Gymplatinum membership,a 2-night stay at theChippewa Hotel on
Mackinaw Island, a Balloon Ride for two through GrandTraverse Balloons, a guided winter raft trip f or six down theSturgeon River, four Tiger baseball tickets, a golf package, gift
cardseven three large one-topping Jets Pizzas every monthfor a year (now what family couldnt make good use of that).
With only 100 tickets being sold, the odds of winning oneof the many outstanding prizes are very good indeed, andentrants can take comfort in knowing the dollars they investin a raffle ticket will go to the much needed services provid-ed by the outstanding Big Brothers Big Sisters organization,including Traditional Community-based mentoring, LunchBuddies, and the Bigs-in-Schools programs.
The raffle drawing (raffle license R14101) will be heldbetween 9 and 10 am on Eagle radio, 101.5, on December20th. For more information about purchasing a raffle ticket,call Kathy Holmes at (989) 732-7780, visit Isabellas CopperPot, G. Willikers, or visit www.bbbsncmi.org.
18 BIG Prizes will be raffled in the BigChristmas Giveaway on December 20th
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
8/16
Page 8 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! December 8, 2011
Q: My ex-wife and I have had alot of rough holidays together, butthis is our first one since ourdivorce. Now, we're negotiatingwho gets the kids when, and it'sterrible -- especially for our kids.How can we help them have a"merry Christmas"?
Juli: Some experts on divorce havedescribed it as a death -- the deathof a family, a marriage and a dreamof happily ever after. As with anydeath, there is gut-wrenching griefassociated with the loss, and learn-ing to adapt to a "new normal." Atno time is this more poignant thanat the holidays. Your kids are griev-ing the loss of their family as muchas you are. It's OK to let themexpress that and acknowledge thatthis Christmas will be difficult foreveryone.
Although everyone gets hurt in adivorce, the children are the mostobvious victims. They had no say in what happened, yet have to live with the painful aftermath.Research indicates that one of thetop predictors of a child's stabilityafter divorce is the health of therelationship between his parents.
Whatever conflicts, wounds andfeelings you have toward each other,put them aside for the holidays andgive your children a conflict-freeChristmas. I'd encourage your for-mer wife and you to do whatever you can to work together to makethe holidays smooth for your kids.
If possible, share Christmasmorning, celebrating together, orpitch in together to buy your kidsgifts from both of you, instead ofcompeting for who bought more
gifts. I know these suggestions maysound far-fetched given the hostilitythat often accompanies divorce, butyour kids deserve your effort towardpeace. More than any shiny packageunder the Christmas tree, your chil-dren most want and need to knowthat Mom and Dad love them andare not going to fight over them.
** ** **
Q: Every Christmas, my kids getcaught up in the desire for the lat-est toys and electronic gadgets.Not only is this expensive for myhusband and me, but it seems tomiss the point of Christmas entire-ly. Without being preachy, how canwe teach our kids that it's not justabout getting stuff?
Jim: Children have a tendency to feelthat the world revolves around them.Our culture encourages this problem bytelling kids -- and adults, too -- to lookout for No. 1. The materialism of theChristmas season only aggravates theproblem.
In her book "Fun-Filled Parenting,"author Silvana Clark suggests that oneof the best antidotes for self-centered-ness is to volunteer as a family. It mightbe serving at a soup kitchen, or hostinga neighborhood bake sale and giving theproceeds to charity, or taking part in a
church service project, or puttingtogether Christmas care packages forthe troops.
According to Clark, volunteeringhelps children learn four valuable les-sons. First, it helps them understandthat they're not the center of the uni-verse. Second, it enables kids to learnresponsibility and gain self-confidence.Third, it puts them in touch with com-munity resources and groups thatdepend on volunteers. And finally, vol-unteering helps kids build relationships
with positive role models -- men andwomen who have invested their lives inreaching out.
Here's something that will really blowyour kids' minds: have them go throughtheir stuff and identify a few things (ingood condition) to give away to a needy
family or shelter this year. Or better yet,have them pool their allowance and buy
a few new items! This kind ofselflessness goes against justabout everything they'rehearing from the culture.
** ** **Jim Daly is president of Focus on
the Family, host of the Focus on theFamily radio program, and a hus-
band and father of two.Dr. Juli Slattery is a licensed psy-
chologist, co-host of Focus on theFamily, author of several books,and a wife and mother of three.
Submit your questions to:[email protected]
Copyright 2011Focus on the Family,
Colorado Springs, CO 80995International Copyright
Secured. All Rights reserved.
Distributed by Universal Uclick1130 Walnut St.
Kansas City, MO 64106;(816) 581-7500
This feature may not by repro-duced or distributed electronically,in print or otherwise without writ-
ten permission of Focus on theFamily.
FOCUS ON THE FAMILY
FIRST CHRISTMAS AFTER
DIVORCE NOT VERY MERRY
FOR CHILDREN
with Jim Daly and Dr. Juli Slattery
This good news for Your family brought to
you by Family Comfort Systems
989-732-8099
Ask about ourSenior Discount
LOCAL NEWSNew stories updated daily on-line at www.weeklychoice.com
Tax Program NeedsVolunteers
United Way Lists Local Donation Drives
ANGER MONUMENTS & MARKERS
(231)587-8433
(906)484-1202Roger Anger, Owner
Mancelona, MI 49659
Cedarville, MI 49719
In home appointments available.
Serving the E.U.P. area & the Northern Lower.
Monumental Sales, Est. 1917
Sunburst Memorials TM
Email: [email protected]
Enjoy a Seasonal Tradition with Great Lakes ChamberOrchestra and Chorus Handels Messiah Concert
Handel's "Messiah" will be presented by
the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra at St.Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Petoskeyon Thursday, December 15th and Friday,December 16th at 7:00 p.m. A quartet of out-standing soloists, Sarah Hibbard, soprano;Martha Hart, alto; David Theis, tenor; andMark Goros, bass; will join the GLCOOrchestra and GLCO Chorus in this perform-ance.
Handel's "Messiah" is the best known andmost beloved oratorio ever written, combin-ing recitative, aria, and dramatic choruses ina resounding affirmation of Gods love."Messiah" was written in 24 days, and wasfirst performed in Dublin on April 13, 1742,as a benefit concert for the Society forRelieving Prisoners, the Charitable Infirmary,and the Mercers Hospital. Handel madeslight modifications in the work for almost
every performance, tailoring the arias to hissoloists and varying the number of voices inthe choir. "Messiah" stands as an artwork
which transcends period and culturalboundaries, and speaks in the most pro-found way to human spiritual aspirations.During the Advent and Christmas seasons
the first section and selected portions of the
remainder are usually performed.Tickets, ranging from $14 for General
Admission, $25 for Silver Reserved Section,
$50 for Gold Reserved Section, and $75 for
Platinum Reserved Section, are now avail-
able on line at TREATickets.com or
www.glcorchestra.org or by calling the GLCO
office 231-487-0010. Reserved seating is
available. General admission tickets are
available at Chambers of Commerce and
bookstores in Petoskey, Harbor Springs,
Charlevoix, Boyne City, and East Jordan,
Dars Hallmark in Cheboygan or at local
bookstores. Remaining tickets will be sold at
the door. For this Seasons Performance all
active military and their spouse will be
admitted free as well as students 18 and
under
The Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra pres-
entation of Handels "Messiah" is sponsored
by the Bank of Northern Michigan, the
Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural
Affairs and the National Endowment for the
Arts.
As a volunteer, you will help low-incomeresidents by preparing and filing their taxreturns and helping them apply for theEarned Income Tax Credits, Child Care
Credits, Homestead Credits, and HomeHeating Credits. Northwest MichiganCommunity Action Agencys (NMCAA) TaxProgram is supported by the State ofMichigan to help area residents claim all ofthe credits they are eligible and need.
NMCAA offers free tax preparation at itsoffice in Traverse City, Cadillac, andPetoskey, as well as the Michigan Worksoffice in Traverse City and MichiganDepartment of Human Services offices in
Bellaire, Cadillac, Kalkaska, Roscommon and
West Branch. Volunteers are needed at all
locations.
Tax preparation experience is preferred.
NMCAA will provide training on tax prepara-tion of low income returns and TaxWise soft-
ware. After passing a basic IRS tax prepara-
tion test, you can choose to do tax prepara-
tion at times and a location that fit your
schedule.
Become a volunteer tax preparer by con-
tacting Roger Suppes at (231) 947-3780 or
(800) 632-7334. He can also be reached via
email at [email protected].
Are you looking to spread holiday cheer?
Char-Em United Way can help point you in
the right direction. United Ways website
now has a section listing local donation
drives.
Our online listing of local donation
drives explains how to donate food, cloth-ing, and holiday gifts, says Casey Adams,
AmeriCorps VISTA for Char-Em United Way.
It also lists the ongoing drives of food
pantries and resale shops, as well as season-
al events such as United Ways Stuff the
Bus.
To find the listing of Donation Drives go
to www.charemunitedway.org/activities/
find-donation-drive or click on the
Donation
Drive link
on Char-
Em United
Ways
homepage.
We hopethis will be
a useful clearinghouse for generous people
wanting to donate, said Adams. Agencies
wanting to post donation drives can submit
information using the form on the web-
page.
For more information, contact United
Way at 231-487-1006 or info@charemunited-
way.org
Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra Presentation of the Christmas sections ofHandels Messiah, will take place at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in
Petoskey on Thursday, December 15th, and Friday December 16th at 7:00 p.m.
CourtEsy Photo
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8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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December 8, 2011 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 9
LOCAL NEWSNew stories updated daily on-line at www.weeklychoice.com
As you know, the holiday season can
be joyous, hectic, celebratory and
expensive. And while you certainly
enjoy hosting family gatherings and giv-ing presents to your loved ones, youll
find these things even more pleasurable
if they dont add a lot more weight to
your debt load. And thats why youll
want to follow some smart money-man-
agement techniques over the next few
weeks.
To begin with, try to establish realistic
budgets for both your entertaining and
your gift giving. When you host family
and friends, dont go overboard on your
expenditures. Your guests will still
appreciate your efforts, which, with a
little creativity, can create a welcoming
and fun experience for everyone. As a
guiding principal, keep in mind these
words attributed to Johann Wolfgang
von Goethe, the famous German poetand philosopher: What you can do
without, do without. Set a budget and
stick to it.
And the same rule applies to your gift-
ing. You dont need to find the most
expensive presents, or overwhelm recip-
ients with the sheer volume of your gifts.
This is especially true if you, like so
many people, have been affected by the
tough economy. Everyone you know will
understand that gifts dont have to be
lavish to be meaningful.
Furthermore, by sticking to a budget,
you wont be tempted to dip into your
long-term investments to pay for fabu-
lous parties or mountains of gifts. Its
never a good idea to tap long-term
investments for short-term needs, butcan be especially bad when your invest-
ment prices are down, as they may well
be this year.
So, if you want to stick to a budget but
you dont want to raid your investments,
how can you pay for your holiday sea-
son expenses? If you can spread out
your purchases, you may be able to pay
for them from your normal cash flow.
But if thats not possible, you might
want to consider plastic your cred-
it card. Using your credit card does not,by itself, need to amount to a financial
setback, especially if youve chosen a
card that offers favorable terms and
youve already shown the discipline not
to over-use that card. Just try to mini-
mize your credit card usage over the
holidays and pay off your card as soon
as you can.
Of course, you can make your holiday
season much easier, financially speak-
ing, if youve set up a holiday fund to
cover your various expenses. While its
too late to set up such a fund this year,
why not get an early start on the 2012
holiday season? All you need to do is put
away some money each month into an
easily accessible
account, separatefrom your everyday
accounts. You dont
have to put in a
great deal, but you
do need to be con-
sistent, which is
why you may want
to have the money
moved automati-
cally, once a
month, from your
checking or sav-
ings account to
your holiday fund.
When next years
holiday season
rolls around, you
might be pleasant-
ly surprised by howmuch youve accu-
mulated.
But for now, fol-
lowing some com-
mon-sense money
management prac-
tices can help you
get through the holiday season in finan-
cial shape and that type of result can
get your new year off to a positive start.
This article was written by EdwardJones for use by your local Edward Jones
Financial Advisor.
Philip Hofweber is a Financial
Advisor with Edward Jones Investments
located at 100 West Main Street in
Gaylord. He can be reached at (989)731-
1851, or email him at
[email protected]. Tune
in Friday Mornings 8:30 am to Eagle
101.5 for Phil Hofweber to hear his week-
ly Financial Focus Topic. Edward Jones,
its financial advisors and employees do
not provide tax or legal advice. You
should consult with a qualified tax or
legal professional for advice on your spe-
cific situation.
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
Leaving a 401(k) with a previous employer could mean
leaving it alone with no one to watch over it.
At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k)
and help you select the one thats best for you. If youd
like to roll it over to an Edward Jones Individual Retire-
ment Account (IRA), we can help you do it without
paying taxes or penalties. And you can feel confident
that someone is looking out for you and your 401(k).
To find out why it makes sense to talk with EdwardJones about your 401(k) options, call or visit yourlocal financial advisor today.
If You Arent at Your Last Job,Why Is Your 401(k)?
!"#$#%&'&()*+,-,.
!"#$#%"$&'()*"+,-./00'1'2$"#'345$6&,-)7'28'9:;:?;=/
FINANCIAL FOCUS
MANAGE YOUR MONEY CAREFULLY THIS
HOLIDAY SEASON
Philip Hofweber, Financial Advisor with Edward JonesGAYLORD, (989) 731-1851
1928 S. Otsego Ave.Gaylord
www.gaylordfordlincoln.com
(989) 732-67371-800-732-6710
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The Michigan Northern Lights chorus, our
local chapter of the Sweet Adelines
International, is hosting an open house to
benefit the Friendship Housing Center on
December 8th, at the First Congregational
Church at 218 W. Second St., Gaylord.
The housing center is facing huge expens-
es in order to serve our community by pro-
viding a place where individuals and families
who have fallen on hard times can rebuild
their lives. We all know that the current eco-
nomic times are causing tremendous prob-
lems for those who are struggling to sur vive
financially. The loss of a job or a significant
medical event, for those without insurance,
is like a push off a cliff for those who live on
the barely minimum paychecks, which many
of the available jobs provide.
The Michigan Northern Lights invite the
community to join them anytime between
6:30 and 8:30 pm on December 8th at the
First Congregational Church to hear any of
the five groups that will be performing.
Enjoy cookies and beverages while listing to
the local musical talent of The Harmonie
Meisters, Nelson Gast on the violin, the
Handbell Choir from the United Methodist
Church, Musik Haus String Guitars;
Michigan Northern Lights and the
Infant8praise choral group from the Trinity
Lutheran Church will be providing songs of
the season for your enjoyment.
The only request is that those attending
this fundraiser offer a donation to the
Friendship Housing Center. So come and
celebrate the season of giving which origi-
nated with the gift of Gods son to the world
on that first Christmas long ago.
By Jim Akans
For the 8th year in a row, the Toys for Tots Toy Trolley rolled into the
Super Wal-Mart in Gaylord, welcoming the holiday spirit, and a whole lot
of gift giving generosity to the event. The Toy Trolley is part of the annual
Toys for Tots Stuff the Trolley week in Northern Michigan, and part of
the ongoing mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots pro-
gram, the largest Christmas toy program in the country.
Several local RSVP volunteers were on hand to gather toys and a wide
assortment of other gifts outside the Wal-Mart Superstore, and they will be
distributed to children in Otsego County as part of the Otsego CountyCommunity Giving Program. Thats a whole lot of toys that will bring a
whole lot of joy to the faces of children in Otsego County families needing
a little help in this difficult economy this Christmas season.
Once again, this event was a wonderful success, stated the Tots for
Tots Event Coordinator Rosie Warner. We thank the generosity of the
community in supporting this program. We hope that we are able to
enhance the Christmas of every child in need here in Otsego County.
Cookies for a Cause fundraiser on December8th to benefit Friendship Housing Center
Toy Trolleyvisits GaylordWalmart lastThursday
The Toys for Tots Toy Trolley received a whole lot of Christmas treasures last Thursday that
will be distributed to children in Otsego County through the Otsego County Community
Giving Program. Among those donating toys was Sean Stefanski (second from right), who
was greeted by (from left), Sgt. Kristopher VanBeckom, Mary Beauchesne (LCPL-USMC)
and Rosie Warner (at right).
The Michigan Northern Lights chorus, our local chapter of the Sweet
Adelines International, is hosting an open house to benefit the Friendship
Housing Center on December 8th, at the First Congregational Church at 218W. Second St., Gaylord.
Photo by Jim AkAns
CourtEsy Photo
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
10/16
John 1:14(New King James Version)
And the Word became flesh and dweltamong us, and we beheld His glory,the glory as of the only begotten ofthe Father, full of grace and truth.
B. Jeremy Wills, D.D.S.
Family!Dentistry
204 State Street, Petoskey, Michigan
(231) 347-8980
God gave you your teeth, we help you keep them.
Page 10 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! December 8, 2011
Nehemiah ProjectOffers Shelter to Petoskey
Area HomelessBy Jim Akans
In 1993, Mike Walker felt his world
was crumbling around him. His wife of
five years had left him as Mikes struggle
with substance abuse was not appropri-ate for his two young children to wit-
ness. He was now homeless, unem-
ployed, and had resorted to sleeping in
East Jordans community gazebo.
Somehow, amid this incredible des-
peration, Mike Walker discovered the
Nehemiah Project in Petoskey.
I began staying there in August,
Mike recalls, and by November my life
had completely turned around. I
accepted Jesus Christ into my life, tri-
umphed over my substance abuse, and
on November 14th, my wife, Gale, and I
were remarried.
Today, Mike Walker is the director of
the Nehemiah Project, a spiritually-based community homeless facility that
has been in existence since 1988. The
project derives its name from the Book
of Nehemiah in the Old Testament of
the Bible. It tells the tale of Nehemiah,
who was an important servant to the
king of Persia, who when he heard of the
Jewish exile to Babylon and the destruc-
tion of the walls of Jerusalem, asked the
king to send him to the city to rebuild
those walls.
At the Nehemiah Project, notes Mike
Walker, we are here to help people
rebuild their lives that have been bro-
ken. We provide food and housing for a
period of time so that they can get theirlives back in order and find work and
guidance. We are a Christian-based
shelter, with values that are shared
among the approximately thirty-five vol-
unteers who help to run the Nehemiah
Project.
In 2010, the Nehemiah Project housed
individuals for 6,953 bed nights, an
accounting of how many beds were uti-
lized each night over the year. That
translates into approximately 186 peo-
ple whose lives were assisted through
the shelter. To provide this service, over
7,500 volunteer hours were utilized, and
the Nehemiah Project obtains food from
community donations from individuals,
businesses and schools, community
organization and the Manna Food
Project in Petoskey.
Mike Walker points out that there is a
Michigan Tax credit for those who make
financial donations to organizations
such homeless shelters and food
pantries that will be expiring at the end
of 2011. Though the need for such
entities is increasing, the tax credits for
those helping to support them are
decreasing. For those considering mak-
ing financial donations to an organiza-
tions such as ours, this is the time to
take advantage of those tax credits
before they expire at the end of the
year.
There are actually two separate shel-
ters under the Nehemiah Project
umbrella. The mens facility is called the
Hospitality House, and the womens
housing is called the Mary Margaret
House, and is run by Mikes wife, Gale.
Occupants are allowed to stay up to
ninety days as long as they are actively
seeking employment and trying to rem-
edy their situation. Mike notes that
when the economy is in better shape,
the length of the average stay is about
thirty to forty days.
The Nehemiah Project made the dif-
ference in my life, Mike Walker states,
Unless something changes on the
inside for the chronically homeless, it is
unlikely their situation will ever change.
I gave my heart to Christ when I came
here and from that moment on every-
thing changed. After I left here I contin-
ued to serve as a volunteer and I was a
house painter until 2003, when I was
asked to become the director.
When asked if he felt the decision to
accept his current position at the
Nehemiah Project was the right one,
Mike Walker replies with a smile in his
voice; When the Lord calls you to do
somethingits always the right choice.
There are actually two separate shelters under the Nehemiah Project umbrella. Gale
Walker oversees the womens housing, called Mary Margaret House, and Mike Walker
directs the mens facility, called the Hospitality House.
CourtEsy Photo
The Nehemiah Project, a spiritually based community homeless facility in Petoskey that has been in existence since 1988.
CourtEsy Photo
8/3/2019 Weekly Choice - December 08, 2011
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December 8, 2011 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 11
Spending at locally owned busi-nesses leads to better schools, betterroads and local support of commu-
nity charities and fundraisers.The Wall Street Journal recently
wrote an article that touted the ben-
efits of shopping locally. They com-pared the impact of shopping atbusinesses that are owned locally
compared to a business that isowned by an entity from outside of
the area.Next time are shopping in
Northern Michigan, consider the
impact that each dollar you spendand how it will return to the com-munity you live in. Every dollar you
spend works about 50% harderwhen it is spent at a locally owned,independent business. That's
according to an online tool thatgauges the economic impact onlocal communities of spending at
independently owned small busi-nesses versus national chains.
Launched by Independent We
Stand, a Virginia-based advocacygroup for independent business
owners, the tool shows that for every$10 spent at an independent busi-ness, about $6 is returned to the
local community in the form of pay-roll taxes and other local expendi-tures. By contrast, only $4 is
returned by national chains.Depending on the size of the city,this could potentially inject millions
into a local economy.As such, spending at local small
businesses "leads to better schools,
better roads and more support forother civic necessities such as policedepartments," the group says.
The results are based on a study oflocal retail economics in the Chicago
area community of Anderson