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Vol. 10, Issue 4 Covering the Positive Community News in the Area April 25 - May 8, 2020

O

gemaw CountyVOICE

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OHHS Science Faculty Members step up to make face shields

Coronavirus unites citizens to make masks Whittemore-Prescott Class of 2020

Top Ten

West Branch Chamber News

See Page 8

BY RICKI MCCALLUMPhil Nichols and Chris Powley

have designed and are producing face shields for medical personnel and first responders. Phil Nichols is the robotics coach at Ogemaw Heights High School. Chris Powley, a city councilman, is also the Stem Science teacher at the high school.

About two weeks ago, Nichols approached Powley with the idea of making face shields. He said, “What do you think about doing this?”

Powley responded, “Absolutely!” Without wasting any time, his dining room table was turned into a work station. Powley says, “Kudos to the superintendent and principal for allowing Phil and me to bring home the 3-D printers and set them up for making the shields.”

There were four 3-D printers at the high school. Now, two are at Nichols’ home and two are at Powley’s home. A lot of 3-D plastic filament was left over from classes and not being used. The

filament is like a hardened plastic that is melted and reformed into the headbands. They have ordered more filament since making over 400 face shields. Overhead projector acetate transparency film is used for the shield itself. The sheets are hole punched and then attached to studs on the

BY RICKI MCCALLUMIn February, a group of

concerned citizens discussed plans on how to deal with the Coronavirus once it reached the Ogemaw County area. Never before had an invisible enemy done such damage. It was headed here and the county should be

prepared. Not knowing what the biggest need would be, they reached out to the community to determine the greatest need. To their surprise, it was face masks.

With extreme shortages throughout the country, making masks became their mission. Cynthia Zion has led the effort. She has worked for ABC Medical

Supply for the past 26 years and has lots of contacts. She meets with doctors, nurses, hospitals, and individuals who have ongoing health problems, like people that require oxygen, ventilators, CPAP machines, or people with compromised immune systems. Brody L. Ruckle

ValedictorianAutumn K. Reed

Salutatorian

See SHIELDS on Page 3 »

BY DEANNA SURBROOK“My heart is full of feelings.

Big feelings and small feelings. Quick feelings and slow feelings. My heart is like a house with all these feelings living inside.

“Sometimes my heart feels like a big yellow star, shiny and bright. I smile from ear to ear and twirl around so fast, I feel as if I could take off into the sky. This is when my heart is happy…

“Some days my heart feels as heavy as an elephant. There’s a dark cloud over my head, and tears fall like rain. This is when my heart is sad.” Excerpts from “In My Heart - A Book of Feelings” by Jo Witek.

During these difficult days we’re all living through, our hearts can be filled with many different emotions, whether it be sadness, fear, or even anger.

But, it is important to remember that our children’s lives have also been turned upside down. Their sense of normalcy – going to school, playing with friends, seeing their grandparents – is gone and they are left to process

what’s going on around them.

In hopes of making them feel even a little bit better, Hannah Elliott, a first year second-grade teacher at Surline Elementary, decided to take her lifelong love of reading to help kids smile and laugh during these uncertain days and also to provide that sense of normalcy back in to their young lives.

Hannah, a 2014 graduate of Ogemaw Heights High School, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Elementary Education from Central Michigan University, has taken to Facebook three times a week to read aloud to her students

and many other children across the country.

“Kids feel stress just like we do and reading really does help alleviate stress,” Hannah said. “Lots of people are really loving the stories.”

One book she has read is “In My Heart – A Book of Feelings,” to let them know that’s it’s OK to feel sad or scared.

Silly titles she’s read include “Polly and Her Duck Costume,” “Hedgehog Needs

a Hug,” “How to Catch the Easter Bunny” and “The Three Little Pigs – Once upon a Time.”

In addition to the emotional aspect, reading aloud is one of the most important things parents can do for their children and is

Courtesy photo

Hannah Elliott, a sec-ond-grade teacher at Surline Elementary School in West Branch, is reading to her students and many other children on Facebook.

Surline teacher reads to kids online

See TOP 10 on Page 6 »

Judy Dunn local seamstress hard at work.

See MASKS on Page 3 »

See READS on Page 6 »

PAGE 2 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICE APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020Page 2

JOHN MOOLENAARH SUPPORTING MICHIGAN FAMILIES H

Paid for With Official Funds Approved by the House of Representatives.

For More Information:WEBSITE:

Moolenaar.House.Gov/Coronavirus

PHONE: 989-631-2552

271099

To my constituents,I know this is a difficult time right now and I am working hard to help during this crisis. I recently voted for legislation that provides more funding for our health care professionals to have the supplies they need to fight COVID-19 and save lives.I also know many Michigan residents have lost their jobs and have unpaid bills at home. That’s why I voted for expanded unemployment benefits and supported direct payments to individuals, married couples, and families. Working families of four can expect to receive a direct payment of $3,400. Social Security recipients will also receive a payment and they do not have to file a tax return to receive it.As this situation changes in the weeks ahead, I will be providing updates through my website, my Facebook page, messages to the local media, and my emails to constituents. We are all in this together and we must remain united, even while we stay apart to limit the spread of the virus.Sincerely,

JOHN MOOLENAAR Member of Congress

BY JEAN PETERSON Over the past five years

The Cozy Corner of Ogemaw County has established itself as an innovative group of small businesses that know the power of collaboration. The pandemic hasn’t slowed them down. Challenged with the same business realities all small businesses are facing, they are taking positive, customer focused actions. “Our Cozy Corner companies got together and asked, how can, by us working more closely together, we help each other retain customers while attracting new ones?” asked Steve Trecha of Warblers Cove Family Campground and RV Resort. The answer - combining The Cozy Corner companies’ social media connections to create a whole new level of customer engagement. As a result, the Cozy Corner Facebook Cross-Promotion project was born.

The Cozy Corner of Ogemaw County is made up of 11 small businesses in Lupton and Rose City. They are Lovewell’s Corner Store, The Rusty Red Rose, Delaney’s Wood Fired Maple Syrup, The Cedar Tavern and Grill, Rose Valley Winery, Wiltse Property Management, Warblers Cove, Valley Mist Vineyard Winery, New Sunrise Cafe and Cabins, Green Briar Golf Course, and the Ogemaw County Fair. “This new cross-promotional collaboration that we have going on Facebook has increased our exposure. As soon as COVID-19 settles down we are positive that our momentum will really take off,” said Charles Wiltse of Wiltse Property Management.

The Cozy Corner has its own social media guru, Bailey Keeler, who is organizing and facilitating the twice-weekly Facebook cross promotions. “We started the first of April and we

are already seeing results with post engagement levels doubling and even tripling for some along with increases in page likes and follows,” says Keeler. Her goal was to help create a process that maximizes promotion potential while remaining simple and fun. “We started by establishing a monthly schedule. I work with members to finalize their posts before sending them out weekly to the whole group, and I follow up with analytics on post performance. Participants also brainstorm messaging and content techniques together, so this really is a wonderful collaboration between the businesses.” In addition, the group is encouraged to share other posts outside the ones submitted for the project. To maximize exposure, Facebook’s algorithms are studied and used to the collaboration’s advantage.

The Cozy Corner partners also pass on their business

survival tips and social media ideas to each other. “Although this has been extremely hard on everyone, love and support for one another will see us through. In the meantime, we are offering curbside delivery and shipping to anywhere in Michigan,” said Jamie Ziolkowski of Rose Valley Winery. Charles Wiltse from The Cedar Tavern and Grill adds, “We are currently still open through this COVID19 pandemic and we’ve had a number of customers call for food pick up orders.” The New Sunrise Cafe and Cabins is also open for takeout food orders. Lovewell’s Corner Store is open as an essential store and offers curbside services for EMTs and anyone who calls ahead. “We have had great support from our local customers during this pandemic,” said Margie Peterson. Delaney’s Wood Fired Maple Syrup, has a self-serve trailer for their pure maple products. It makes their tasty treats available

outside their store front. They also offer online sales.

Due to the pandemic some of the businesses are without regular store hours. The Rusty Red Rose has been closed due to the stay-at-home orders. However, Polly Mason noted the positivity that The Cozy Corner has offered during this time: “The support we receive from our fellow Cozy Corner members has given us the motivation to push through these difficult circumstances. We plan on still being here when it is safe to reopen our business.” Brad Moore from Valley Mist Vineyards said “Our plans were to re-open April 1, however, with the current travel restrictions in place in Michigan, we have extended our decision to May 1 and then we will once again re-evaluate our opening date. We are in the class of business that allows curbside sales, so even if the tasting room

The Cozy Corner of Ogemaw CountyTM

See COZY CORNER on Page 3 »

APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020 PAGE 3 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICE

Shields« Continued from page 1

Community

Kristin Marie Provoast Memorial Scholarship Fund

Would like to announce we are unfortunately cancelling this year’s Kristin Fest event.

We would like to acknowledge the following businesses for their generosity and thoughtfulness…Bader & Sons Co.

Colvin’s Heating & Cooling

Dennis Jameson

Dings Excavating Inc

Fransee Seamless Gutter & Exteriors

Grout Rite Tile

Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village

JB Metalworx

Jim and Dawn Ward

Juarez & Juarez P.C

Justin Ward and Megan Quintana

Mid Michigan Asphalt & Paving

Mid-Michigan Children’s Museum

Nelson Trucking & Excavating

North Country Outfitters

Ogemaw County Fairgrounds

Ogemaw County Herald

Ogemaw County Voice

Ogemaw Lanes

P&C Music

R & D Guide Service

Rose City Chiropractic

Rose Tool & Die

Saginaw Children’s Zoo

Serenity Home Health Care

State Farm- Christi Neubecker

Team Hodges

The Dream

The Nightmare

Winter Apartments

We also would like to let everyone know with your support over the years we were able to give two gradu-ating 2020 seniors from Ogemaw Heights High School, $1,000 scholarships.

See you next year!

headbands.The face shields can be

sanitized and reused. Powley says if the shield becomes scratched, it can easily be replaced on the headband.

They have given the face shields free of charge to MidMichigan Health, McLaren Hospital, The Villas and the Ogemaw County Transit Authority. The face shields are used for medical personnel and first responders and anyone on the front lines needing protection.

They are excited and happy to be helping keep our doctors, nurses and workers safe.

Between the two of them, they are able to produce about 40 shields per day. They will continue to make them as long as they are needed. It is wonderful that so many people in our community have stepped up to help during this pandemic. Nichols and Powley are two of those and a great example for our young people. Kudos to them.

She works full time and needed help in organizing and gathering workers and supplies to produce masks.

She met Becky Ward, who is a special education teacher now at home during the shutdown. Becky does not sew but she gathers materials and distributes them. She runs routes, dropping off mask kits and supplies. She then picks up masks and drops them off where they are needed. “She is a Godsend,” Cynthia said.

With 22-25 people sewing part-time, the group is producing between 75-136 masks a week. They are also working with a group in Gladwin that is producing even more masks per week. There is a great need. The masks have been innovated three to four times. They make fitted masks and rectangular masks. Some have filters, some have pockets, and some are cloth masks produced to cover an N95 PPE mask. There are different masks for different uses.

The group in Gladwin, called Let’s Make Masks, and Becky’s Sewing in Houghton Lake have coordinated with the Ogemaw County group to be more efficient. They can now trade materials or elastic with one another. Wherever, the need is. Elastic has been hard to come by.

If anyone has materials, elastic or wants to donate to the group, please call Cynthia Zion at 989-233-7210 or Becky Ward at 989-934-0674.

There are also people making masks in Lupton, Hale, Prescott, St. Helen, and some donations have come from as far away as Bay City. This is an area-wide project. Donations or work is picked up from porches or parking lots with no personal contact.

Zion said when they first began, they were looking for seamstresses and some said they had not sewn for years. “People have just been amazing!”

One lady said, “I’m getting my sewing machine out and I’ll see what I can do. It is so inspiring to hear the stories of people giving back, doing what they didn’t know they could do.”

There were some that said they did not know how to sew, but they could sew a button on. They are now making headbands that fit onto the masks for those that have a sensitivity to elastic around the ears, and sewing on buttons has been a tremendous help. Recently, 150 headbands went out. Zion said she picks up headbands at the same time she delivers prescriptions to patients.

More than 800 masks have

been given out in the area. They have been supplied to most of the senior homes and senior apartments, such as The Brook, The Villas at West Branch and Rose City, Victorian Trails, the Victorian Manor, the greenhouse in Rose City, the high rise in West Branch, hardware stores and both Dairy Queens in West Branch and Rose City. Many individuals have also been given masks, as well as medical professionals at MidMichigan Health, McLaren Hospital, doctor offices and Omni-Care.

There are many ways to help if you have the time or desire to help, please contact these ladies or the group on their Facebook page. Even if you do not sew, there may be a way to help. Masks are going to be needed for a long time. Zion said, “It keeps us busy and is a great way to give back to the community.”

The Ogemaw County Community Outreach Page was set up on Facebook. Anyone can go to this page if they have a need and someone will contact them, usually within an hour. Many people have been given help through this site with masks, food, or other needs.

Thank you to the community for the donations of elastic, buttons, headbands, material, pipe cleaners, garden wire, thread etc.

Masks« Continued from page 1

The following is a list of those who are working tirelessly making masks.Janice BergAnita BartmanMicky KartesWanda MuzikDiana HinkleyTrish DelaneyTina SmithBarb Delmonte

Kris WilesGerry WakefieldBecky Elkins SkaggsJenny DingsJudy DunnLauri AmesApril ShultersSarah Meiser

Laurajane SteinhauserKelsey DeGentenaarJacque SholesMaureen BellSarah BellChristine RiceTammy LyonsJanet Wackerle

Dana Martin KrummKathy VillarealAngela YoungPeggie DavisLiz Lauden

can’t open, we will still be in business.”

Green Briar Golf Course and Warblers Cove Campground are both seasonal businesses. They are preparing to open, with the required precautions, as soon as the State gives the go ahead. Green Briar Golf Course is under new ownership and has been undergoing renovations and maintenance to prepare for the new season. “We are excited and hopeful to be open on May 1,” said Carrie Jankowski, owner. Warblers Cove is preparing to welcome hundreds of campers this summer. “We are using the cross posting to share what our Cozy Corner partners have to offer while we wait to open,” offers Steve Trecha.

No matter the circumstances, it is evident that The Cozy Corner has strong pillars of community and collaboration. “We are all about building our Cozy Corner

Community. The community is our customers, chambers, government and of course our small business partners,” said Trecha of Warblers Cove. And of course, all the businesses can’t wait to welcome you back when a sense of normalcy returns. “We at Rose Valley Winery look forward to when we can once again share hugs, laughter and good times over a glass of wine” said Ziolkowski. It is evident that The Cozy Corner shares its strength with each other and highlights the resiliency we all need during these uncertain times.

Editor’s Note – Want to learn more about The Cozy Corner of Ogemaw CountyTM or even join them? Contact any one of the companies in this article. They would be happy to help you out. After all, collaboration helps bring customer success and success is the only option.

Cozy Corner« Continued from page 2

PAGE 4 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICE APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020Community Voices

Reflections of bowling in West Branch

SALLY A. REA

BY SALLY A. REAI would like to share a story that

I found in our file at the museum written by Inez Parliament Schubert in 1999. She was asked to write a story reflecting on the West Branch Women’s Bowling Association 60th (1939-1999) Anniversary Banquet which was held Nov. 20, 1999, at Klacking Creek Holy Family Parish Hall. It is called “Reflections”.

Hello Bowler,Look near the top of

the Whitman Appliance Store building and you will see a sign, Opera House. This is the original Ogemaw Lanes.

In my time it was a silent movie theater, skating rink, and then the bowling alley.

Tug and Clara Sargent made it into a five-lane bowling alley.

Four lanes were for league bowling and the fifth lane was for open bowling.

We were always happy to bowl on lanes 1and 2 as the 5th lane bowlers could be a headache.

There were no automatic pin setters, score keepers or automatic foul lights.

The foul line was watched by someone in the building balcony.

I don’t remember just how we were warned.

Most of us were new to the game so it was interesting.

We were taught the three-step approach and NOT to loft the ball.

One lady would rush to the foul line, stop dead still and then throw the ball.

Another lady threw a slow ball and sometimes it stopped on the alley.

And the pin setters would catch it as it came off the alley. They never changed their approach either.

Few people owned their own ball.

There was an alley ball number 36 or 39 that was the favorite so it was a good night when we arrived early enough to claim it.

I was only working at the telephone office a week so it was a good day when I could get my own shoes.

The price of bowling was 35 cents a game.

The pin setter made five cents a line.

There were lots of changes for errors as the pins could be off center for someone disliked.

Sometimes a dollar bill could be found in the thumb hole to help that man’s team to win.

The pins were wooden with no plastic coating or plastic bottoms.

A fast ball could break or chip the pins.

Tug Sargent cut the bottoms off to make them flat again.

It was not unusual to see pins one half to three quarter inches short. The worst ones were on alley 5.

My former teammates have either moved away or passed away.

The bowlers were a happy bunch and enjoyed dressing up for fun night or any excuse. Often the 6th lane was found next door at the Model Restaurant.

The men and women had competitive games. Some times with bowlers from out of town.

In 1946 and 1947 there was a four-page paper printed called

the Gutter Gazette with news of the West Branch men and women bowlers.

In 1947 the lady bowling the high game for the night received a pair of nylons from the team sponsor.

One night when we were at the alley a telephone call came. I answered and the man wondered if I was Mrs. Ogemaw? He wanted to talk to Jack. (Inez’s husband) I should have told him you speak with the chief.

In closing I wish you many 300 games in the next coming century.

Inez Parliament Schubert.Lowell & Helen Crowe

moved to this area in the 1950s. In 1956 they purchased the Ogemaw Recreation Center from Tug Sargent and in 1957 built

Ogemaw Lanes on M-76. The eight-lane house, complete with automatic pinsetters, became the new home for the West Branch Bowling Association in November 1957. They hosted the Girls Athletic Association

bowling gym class during the 1960s. In 1971 they sold the lanes to Jack and Inez Schubert.

Chum and Lorriane Illig bought the bowling alley from Jack and Inez in 1975 and family have operated it ever since.

Letter to the editor policy

The Ogemaw County Voice encourages all readers to submit letters to the editor for possible publication. Please limit letters to 200 words or less.The author must include a daytime phone number as they will be contacted prior to publication.

Unsigned letters will not be published. We reserve the right to edit and/or reject any letter.Letters can be submitted via email to news@ogemawcountyvoice.com or by traditional mail to

P.O. Box 22, West Branch, MI 48661.

First United Methodist Church2490 W. State Rd.

West Branch, MI 48661

989-345-0210Rev. Timothy Dibble

Organist: Carol Kerbywww.westbranchfumc.org

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday School Adults & Children: 10:45 a.m.

Churchill United Methodist Church

501 E. State Rd.(corner of State and Morrison roads)

Worship & Children’s Sunday School: 11:30 a.m.

Preacher: Rev. Brenda Klacking

Calvary Baptist Church235 Minzer Ct. • West Branch

989-345-1651

Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. all ages Sunday Worship 11 a.m. • Youth Group - 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Evening Service - 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY Youth Group - 6:30 p.m. • Awana - 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Prayer Meeting/Bible Study 7 p.m.

Reverend Tom Teall • Youth Pastor Landon Teall www.cbcwb.org

Faith and Worship

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have over-come the world.”

— John 16:33 (NIT)

As a third-century man was an-ticipating death, he penned these last words to a friend: “It’s a bad world, an incredibly bad world. But I have discovered in the midst of it a quiet and holy people who have learned a great secret. They have found a joy which is a thousand times better than any pleasure of our sinful life. They are despised and persecuted, but they care not. They are masters of their souls. They have overcome the world. These people are the Christians—and I am one of them.”

– Source: Moody Bible Institute, Today In The Word, June, 1988, p. 18. From a sermon by Nathan Johnson, “Keeping Your Joy Alive” 8/1/2008

True Peace and Joy

Bill Ballard3149 W. HoughtonWest Branch, MI

(1/4 Mile West of M-30)989-345-4410

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1962Auto Repair 7:30-5 M-F • Oil Change 8:30-5 M-F

• Tires • Interstate Batteries • Belts & Hoses • Fuel Injection

• Starters & Alternators • Minor Engine

• Motor Tune-Up • Shocks-Struts • ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid

• Exchanger • Check Engine Light • Engine Repair

COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR Computer Diagnostic Service

“It costs no more to have a specialist do the work.”FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMOBILE REPAIR

CERTIFIED MECHANICS AIR CONDITIONING • RADIATOR FLUSH • ALIGNMENT • BRAKES

MUFFLERS & EXHAUST SYSTEMS • GAS TANKS • AUTOMOBILE ELECTRIC SERVICE

COMPUTERIZED FRONT AND REAR ALIGNMENTS & TIRE BALANCING

The 1939 Jones Drillers bowling team (l-r) Clara Sargent, Bess Steuernol, Hilda Abbs, Ida Beeby and Ann Jones.

Dear editor,Shout out to the West Branch

DPW for honoring the suggestion of a constituent to put out the annual flag display downtown. Almost two months early, reduced hours yet similar workloads, it would be unfair to require such a task, but they found time to get it done.

May it serve as a salute to ALL essential workers who pass through it each day to keep our community running. Those on the front line keeping us safe like our public safety departments. Our paramedics, medical teams and their staffs taking care of our health. The infrastructure workforce keeping systems operable. The truckers, grocers, convenience store and dining staffs providing our needs to survive. We salute you!

For the rest... let it remind us what it stands for. A reminder that “we are one nation, under God…” An understanding at the end of each day (regardless of political party, views on vaccinations, whether you believe this is a

political crisis, a medical crisis, or both) that we need to set aside our differences and stand together.

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and God Bless.

Rusty Showalter,West Branch City Councilman

Still holding virtual and phone appointments!

Market swingsmaking you

uneasy?

Let’s Talk!Cyle Marie Gillman, Financial Advisor

cyle.gillman@edwardjones.com989-345-5485

APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020 PAGE 5 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICE

Call today for pot hole repair

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Hodgins AsphaltPaving Inc.

Commercial • Residential1659 Dow Rd., West Branch, MI 48661

989-345-03261-800-309-3303

hodginsasphalt@yahoo.comwww.hodginsasphalt.com

Donald J. Hodgins

NOTICE OFPUBLIC AUCTION OF

ABANDONED VEHICLESThe auction will be held onSaturday, May 2 at 2 p.m.

atR & R Tire

2687 N. M-33Rose City, MI 48654

Vehicles to be auctioned are:1998 Chevy Silverado 1/2 ton pickup

$3,000 starting bid.2011 GMC Sierra 2500

$5,000 starting bid.Opening bids will be sufficient to satisfy the company’s towing and

storage fees.Please call 989-685-2900

with questions.

West Branch Collision, Inc.Your #1 Unibody Frame Specialist

with precision collision repair• Custom Painting • Auto Collision Repair

CALL GARY 989-345-7230www.westbranchcollision.com

Obituaries

Gregory Alan Peterson, age 52, passed away on Sunday, April 12, at his home with his family by his side. He was born on May 1, 1967, in Colorado Springs, Col., to Eldin and Gloria (Marr) Peterson. He lived in West Branch most of his life and married Kimberly (Hampleman) Peterson in (Fort Hood) Kileen, Tx. on March 25, 1989. Greg retired as an Army Veteran who served 23 years with 18 months in Iraq. He taught in the metal shop at Ogemaw Heights High School for 12 years. He was employed by Saganing Eagles Landing Casino for 10 years working as a maintenance supervisor. Greg was a member of the Bay County Vietnam Veterans Monument Committee and the Yellow

Ribbon Guard. He enjoyed working outside, camping, fishing, bowling, casinos, home improvement, and holidays with family and friends.

Greg is survived by his wife, Kimberly; his parents, Eldin and Gloria Peterson; his brother, Frank (Dawn) Peterson,

and sister Tricia (Brian) Awrey, all of West Branch; his mother-in-law, Lula Hampleman, and brothers-in-law Adam (Mandi) Hampleman of Virden, Ill., Rob Hampleman and Timothy (April) Hampleman, both of Springfield, Ill.; sister-in-law Stephanie (Kenny) Summer of Girard, Ill.; his nieces and nephews, Amanda (Cody) Zimmer, Matthew (Jacie) Peterson, Hunter Awrey, Heath (Toni) Awrey, Jordan (Kendra)

Peterson, Tyler Hampleman, Nicholas (Kayla) Summer, Nichole (Jason) Meece, Juliuan, Kaelen and Remus Hampleman; 13 great-nieces and nephews, and aunts, Geraldine Willing, Beatrice (Ron) Oliver, and Joyce Peterson, all of West Branch. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank Marr and Leona Seibert, Floyd and Doris Peterson; father-in-law, Kenny Hampleman; brother-in-law, David Hampleman; sister-in-law, Julie Hampleman; aunts, Mary Bee and Judy Baldwin, and uncle, Alan Marr.

A memorial service with Veteran Honors will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com.

Gregory Alan PetersonMay 1, 1967 - April 12, 2020

GREGORY ALAN PETERSON

Terry John Hammond, age 82, of West Branch passed away of leukemia on Easter Sunday, April 12, at his home in West Branch surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Jan. 12, 1938, in Alma, to Robert and Esther (O’Sullivan) Hammond. Terry grew up in Mt. Pleasant and attended Sacred Heart Academy from K-8 grades and graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1956. He played football, basketball, golf, and ran track in high school. He was inducted into the Mt. Pleasant High School Hall of Fame in 1999. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army for two years serving in the Korean War. He graduated from Central Michigan University in 1963 where he received his Bachelor in Education and later receiving his master’s degree. While he was attending Central Michigan University, he played football. He met the love of his life, Sharon Bocskay, and they were married on Jan. 26, 1963, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mt. Pleasant and had their wedding reception at The Embers.

Terry was a physical education teacher for the West Branch-Rose City School District. He was the first head coach for the Ogemaw Heights football team and also coached basketball and golf. He had a very successful coaching

career. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, camping, and watching sports.

Terry is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sharon Hammond of West Branch; devoted daughter, Lori (Doug) Koenig of Germantown Hills,

Ill.; two grandsons, Kyle and Jake Koenig of Germantown Hills, Ill.; sisters, Carol (Harold) Kelly of Traverse City, and Kathleen Fields of Pigeon; brother, Tim (Debbie) Hammond of Fitchburg, Wisc.; sister-in-law, Pam (Don) Shaver of Howell; many nieces

and nephews, and his best friend, Jim Bess of Jackson. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa in 2015.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends for his sense of humor.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service will be held at a later time.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, www.lls.org to help fight acute myeloid leukemia which Terry was diagnosed with.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com.

Terry John HammondJan. 12, 1938 - April 12, 2020

TERRY JOHN HAMMOND

Reasons for shopping indowntown

West BranchDeliveryservices

Mon.-Fri 10-5 • Sat. by appointment • Closed Sun.

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Sales TeamKathy Collins Deanna SurbrookSales/Marketing Marketing SpecialistDirector Writer989-450-6163 989-482-7695

Community

A 5K/10K Social Distance Walk ‘N Roll has been organized and is available for anyone to participate. Registration is now open at the website www.main.acsevents.org/walknroll5k. Cost is $20 to participate or $25 to participate and receive a commemorative Walk ‘N Roll sticker.

Participants may walk, run, bicycle, roller skate, roller blade, or skateboard anytime between now and April 30, with all proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society.

The mission of the American Cancer Society – to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer - and the needs of cancer survivors and caregivers continue during the coronavirus pandemic. Cancer hasn’t stopped and neither has the American Cancer Society.

Many local Relay For Life and other American Cancer Society fundraising events throughout the nation are postponed or are going to a virtual platform to continue to meet those needs.

With the spread of COVID-19, cancer patients are more vulnerable than ever. Support is needed to keep vital patient and

caregiver resources available during this difficult time. Advocacy efforts, research, a 24/7 helpline, cancer.org and other ongoing services continue. Hope Lodges across the nation are being offered to local health care workers on the front lines of the fight, at no cost, through the health care systems they are affiliated with. The American Cancer Society operates 34 Hope Lodges across the U.S. with a total of 1,174 rooms.

Each person should check and abide by the CDC’s most current guidelines and state and local orders for social distancing rules and follow them.

The American Cancer Society remains committed to the needs of cancer patients and continues to provide help and resources to cancer survivors, families, caregivers and health care providers. This includes being available 24/7, 365 days a year through its helpline 800-227-2345 and cancer.org.

To join the 5k/10k Social Distance Walk ‘N Roll, register at www.main.acsevents.org/walknroll5k. Follow the event on Facebook.

Social Distance Walk ‘n Roll

PAGE 6 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICE APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020

YOUR CHURCH AD HERE

CALL989-745-8355

TO DISCUSS YOURADVERTISING NEEDS

Faith and WorshipHale Baptist Church

Pastor Todd VossenSERVICES

Sunday School - 9:45 a.m., Church Service - 11:00 a.m

Prayer/Bible Study - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Nights

Kids Club - K thru 6th Grade Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m.

Contact the Church for More Information 989-728-3821 • 327 N. Washington, Hale

Hale United Methodist Church Everyone Welcome! Pastor: Mel Leach

Join us on Facebook during coronavirus concerns.

201 West Main/Esmond, Hale ~ 728-9522 Facebook: Hale United Methodist Church

“...so in Christ we who are many form one body ...”

Romans 12:5

Whyte In Prayer

“Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.”

— 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

Scottish minister Alexander Whyte was known for his uplifting prayers in the pulpit. He always found some-thing for which to be grateful. One Sunday morning the weather was so gloomy that one church member thought, “The preacher certainly won’t think of anything for which to thank the Lord on a wretched day like this.”

Much to his surprise, however, Whyte began by praying, “We thank Thee, O God, that it is not always like this.” (Daily Bread, August 26, 1989)

– From a sermon by Melvin Newland, Thanksgiving and Praise, 11/24/2010

989-728-5955 877-879-8726

LEADING THE WAY IN COMFORT• Furnaces• Air Conditioning• Boilers • Humidifiers• Purifiers • Generators• Geothermal Services• Ductless Heating and Cooling• Maintenance Agreements

24-Hour Emergency Service

GRASS HOPPER • NEW HOLLAND • KUBOTA

WILLARD’S EQUIPMENTSIMPLICITY • HUSQVARNA

PH. (989) 345-3128

JERRY WANGLER 255 S. M-33DAN WARNER WEST BRANCH, MI 48661

Top 10« Continued from page 1

R & R Tire LLCNAPA Autocare Center, Certified Mechanics

Auto Repair & Tire SalesBrakes, Wheel Alignments, AC Service, Computer Diagnostic, Tire Repairs, Oil Changes, Heating & Cooling, andwe offer all types of tires and makes

2687 N. M-33, Rose City Ph. 989.685.2900Intoxalock Systems, Easy Pay Card

Photo by Grange Bell

In honor of the Ogemaw Heights High School graduating seniors, the stadium lights at OHHS were turned on, on Friday, April 17, at 8:20 p.m. (20:20 in military time), for 20 minutes. “Hopefully, this will shine some bright lights for their hard work, and dedica-tion,” said Jon Studley, athletic director.

Bright lights for the Class of 2020

Jamie L. Kline

Haylie J. Horn Ann M. Burkhart Stuart C. Limbaugh Marissa M. Schmidt

Carly M. Gibson Hannah M. Hudson Jayda R. McKuen

recommended up to the age of 14. It builds many important foundational skills, increases vocabulary, develops imagination, and introduces children to the simple pleasure of reading.

Reading to the kids has helped Hannah emotionally, as well.

“My whole life is teaching…

even I was feeling kind of lost,” she said, adding this is not a “vacation” for teachers. “Being away from my students is the hardest thing I have ever had to do.”

Hannah plans to continue reading to the kids for however long the quarantine lasts.

“It makes me feel happy doing something to help kids during

these stressful times,” she said. “The students have a lot of unknowns in their lives…they pick up on things.

“I think about my students a lot,” Hannah added. “I know there is only so much I can do through a screen. But, if I can teach them anything right now, that’s really important.”

Reads« Continued from page 1

Community

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will invest $1.4 million to make repairs and upgrades to four bridges in Ogemaw County: both northbound and southbound I-75 bridges over M-55, the I-75 Business Loop (BL) bridge over Ogemaw Creek, and the M-55 bridge over the Rifle River. This work, which began April 13, includes repairs to help prevent damage to the bridge piers from high and fast-moving water, as well as concrete approach and

drainage improvements.This project includes repairs to

maintain the structural integrity of these four bridges, and will require single-lane closures with traffic shifts.

For more information or to see a project map, visit the website Michigan.gov/mdot or contact James Lake, MDOT Office of Communications at 906-250-0993.

The estimated completion date is Sept. 11.

Repairs on four bridges in Ogemaw County begins

Recently, Congressman John Moolenaar’s office released updated information for the annual Congressional Art Competition in the Fourth District.

The new process for the annual contest will allow students across the Fourth District to showcase their artistic talents and stay safe.

In past years, participants have been required to physically submit their artwork to the office. This year, participants will be required to submit their entries electronically. Any student who wishes to participate in the 2020 Congressional Art Competition needs to email the following to Luke Derheim in Congressman

Moolenaar’s office at Luke.Derheim@mail.house.gov no later than Friday, April 30.

All guidelines for the competition can be found at Moolenaar.House.gov, along with the student information release form.

All submissions will be displayed on Moolenaar’s website at Moolenaar.House.Gov for the month of May and winners will be announced on May 11.

Moolenaar’s office will then make arrangements with the winners for transporting the winning entry to Washington as well as the regional winning entries to the district office locations.

Annual Congressional Art Competition moves online

APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020 PAGE 7 - OGEMAW COUNTY VOICECommunity

$5 and it runs for a maximum of 3 months!The Ogemaw County Voice offers $5

private party, 20 word classified ads and we will run the ad for a maximum of 3 months.

For help wanted, homes for sale/rent, commercial property for sale/rent or any other business type ad, we charge $5 for 20 words for a one time run.

If you want to add a photo to the ad, it is an additional, one time charge of $5.

You can submit your ad via email at gbell@ogemawcountyvoice.com or U.S.

mail at: P.O. Box 22, West Branch, MI 48661. If you have questions call (989) 745-8355.

Help Wanted

Visit Us On The WebOgemawCountyVoice.com

Facebook @ Ogemaw County Voice!

New Amish doctor’s buggy and hook-up for a horse, $1,900 OBO.Call 989-390-3172.

Jonathan Berns, DDS

Accepting New Patientswith a Smile!

Most insurances acceptedHours: Monday to Friday

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

278 N Burgess St.,West Branch, MI 48661

General Dentistry

989-345-0802

Service Directory

For Sale Prescott Clinic, P.C.Family Health CareCertified Rural Health Clinic

125 Washington 989-873-3352

Welcoming Jimmie Ward, PA-CHoward Hurt, DO

Clinic Hours:M-Th 8am - 5pm

(Closed from Noon - 1pm)Friday 8am - Noon

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTSSame day appointments for Acute

illness and injury

Most insurances acceptedincluding Blue Cross, Medicare, Medicaid, Molina, and McLaren

Jessica Checci, FNP-BCGregory Pinnell, MDCheck us out on facebook

Ogemaw County Voice

The Professionals You CanCount On To Keep You Covered

Roofing • SidingPole Barns & More

2750 S. M-76West Branch

989-429-8245lucynskiservices@gmail.com

RICH HEAVLIN

WEST BRANCH, MI(989) 345-3954

graphics@moonlight.com* SIGNS * BANNERS * VEHICLE LETTERING *

moonlightgraphicswb.com

MOONLIGHT GRAPHICS

Struggling with your weight?

I did too!But, now I have lost 35 pounds without dieting. Ask me how and

you can too!Call or textDeanna at

989-482-7695.

For Rent

200 SOUTH SECOND STREET WEST BRANCH, MI 48661

VOIP/IP/SIP*EFAXVOICE MAIL , TELEPHONE & CAMERA SYSTEMS

WIRELESS ROUTERS & INTERNET MODEMSPHONE, DATA, T.V. AND FIBER WIRING

INSTALLATION * MAINTENANCE * REPAIR

ROBand

BIG’SMOVING

COMPANY

Rob and Big’s Moving Company‘Big or Small, We’ll Move it All.’

Licensed and InsuredBased out of West Branch, Michigan

robandbigsmoving.comLike us on Facebook!

Rob DeGentenaar989-387-6713

Nester CreekConvenience Store

& PropanePizza • Deli • Grill

Ice Cold Beer & WineLiquor • Video • Lottery

LP Fill Station • Kerosene

Rec Gas & Off Road Diesel

989-873-3333Conveniently Located at

M-55 & Sage Lake Road, Prescott

We deliver100 lb. Propane

Cylinders

Personalized, Professional”Hands on” therapy

Conditions we can help are:• Orthopedic• Neurological

• Pediatric• Vestibular and Balance

Rehabilitation• Certified in LSVT for

Parkinson’s Disease

Hima Gali P.T. M.B.A.989-345-0867

Fax: 989-345-0871

2388 W M-55 ~ West BranchAccepting New Patients

SOLUTIONSPHYSICAL THERAPY, PLLC

We need to talk!

the is lookingfor someone to take pictures at local events.

Call me, Grange Bell, Publisher989-745-8355

orgbell@ogemawcountyvoice.com

Do you like to take pictures?

Do you like meeting people?

Are you looking for a part time job?

Needham’sBARBER SHOP

in West Branch isNow Open later on Wednesdays to 7pm

989-345-2164

Service Directory Service Directory Service Directory

JMCDUMPSTERS

989-343-5023

5 - 10 - 20 - 30yard dumpsters

Serving Roscommon, Ogemaw,Iosco, Oscoda and Arenac Counties

Call Jack Morris

Reasons for shopping indowntown West Branch

Uniquegifts

Office space for rent in the downtown West Branch area. $400 per month, includes utilities. $150 deposit. Call 345-2164.

CHICK DAYMiller Feed is now taking orders

for chickens, ducks, turkeys, pheasants and guineas.

Buy One Bag of Meatmaker or Chick Starter and Get 10 free jumbo

Cornish Rock Cross Chicks (Limit 10 Chicks per Customer)

Chicks must be picked up on May 20th

Stop in to order your prepaid chicks today.

Miller Feed Inc.3443 M55

Prescott, MI 48756989-345-1753

Call today for pot hole repair

FREE ESTIMATESFully Bonded & Insured

Hodgins AsphaltPaving Inc.

Commercial • Residential1659 Dow Rd., West Branch, MI 48661

989-345-03261-800-309-3303

hodginsasphalt@yahoo.comwww.hodginsasphalt.com

Donald J. Hodgins

NoticeWBMI Radio Station

On Oct. 17, 2012, WBMI Radio Station was granted alicense by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to serve the public interest as a public trustee until Oct. 1, 2020.

Our license will expire on Oct. 1, 2020. We must file an application for renewal with the FCC by June 1, 2020. When filed, a copy of this application will be available for public inspection at www.fcc.gov. Our application contains information concerning this station’s performance during the last eight years prior to Oct. 1, 2020.

Individuals who wish to advise the FCC of facts relating to our renewal application and to whether this station hasoperated in the public interest should file comments and petitions with the FCC by Sept. 1, 2020. Further infor-mation concerning the FCC’s broadcast license renewal process is available at 1245 Gray Rd., West Branch, MI, 48661 or may be obtained from the FCC, Washington, D.C. 20554.

Calvary ChristianAcademy

of West Branch isseeking a middle school

language arts/history teacher for the 20/21 school year. To apply,

go to www.ccawb.org or call at 989-345-1651

PAGE 8 - HALE AREA VOICE APRIL 25 - MAY 8, 2020

O’Farrell Farms 1204 Simmons 989-709-6206 absonthefarm.wixsite.com/website

Cruises Inc. 989-726-4822 www.cruisesinc.com/kgildner

Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center 112 S 4th Street in Roscommon 989-275-7145 www.nmcac4kids.org

Moonlight Productions 989-345-3954 www.moonlightdj.com

West Branch Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors BureauWBACC - www.wbacc.com • West Branch Visitors Bureau - www.visitwestbranch.com

422 West Houghton Ave. - West Branch, MI 48661Phone (989) 345-2821 • (800) 755-9091 • Fax (989) 345-9075

Welcome New Chamber Members:

Chamber News from Heather

Are you doing your part?Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds. Use hand

sanitizer that has at least 60 percent alcohol.• Avoid close contact• Cover your mouth with a facemask when around others• Clean and disinfect oftenVisit www.cdc.gov for updates and information on

COVID-19Another great resource is District Health Department 2

www.dhd2.orgFor a listing of additional resources,webinars and local

information please visit www.wbacc.com

PhotosWe are looking for Fall and Winter

action activity photos. Please submit them to wbchamberdirector@gmail.com.

Chamber Connections:All Chamber Connections breakfast meetings and

Chamber Business After Hours are cancelled until further notice. The Chamber is hosting Virtual Happy Hour and Chamber Connections. If you would like more information on that please email wbchamberdirector@gmail.com.

WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT MICHIGAN’S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRYPurchase gift cards: By purchasing a gift card from a

local business gives them immediate revenue and keeps them going.

Utilize the take out and curbside: Supports the industry from your home. Visit Michigan Lodging and Tourism website www.mrla.org.

Make a difference Monday: Do something that puts a smile on someone’s face.

Take Out Tuesday: Take out or curbside from a local business. #takeouttuesday

Watch on Wednesday: Watch a webinars and learn.Talk to you later Thursday: Purchase a gift card to use

later. The Chamber offers Chamber Bucks which is a gift certificate that can be used at local businesses.

Follow on Friday: Follow a few of your favorite businesses on Facebook. #smallbusiness #shoplocal

Social Media Saturday: Engage with a business by posting on social media. Leave a positive comment.

Sunday Sun: Go outside and explore, take a nature walk and snap a few photo.

HEATHER NEUHAUS,EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

We are all in this together and we’ll all pull out of this together. West Branch Area Strong!

Thank you to EVERYONE who is helping out during this time.

The West Branch Area

Chamber of Commerce and West Branch Visitors Bureau are thinking of members, businesses, organizations and the community daily. Please make sure you are reading the updates and keeping yourself, family, friends safe and healthy.

2020 Premier Sponsors:

WHY JOIN A CHAMBER?Membership brings credibility to your business. You can increase

positive perception among consumers and business owners when you’re identified as a member of a Chamber of Commerce. Increase your visibility in the community. Being a member has many benefits and ways of promoting your business along with networking opportunities and sponsoring.

Please visit www.wbacc.com for online registration or call 345-2821.

West Branch Visitors BureauThe West Branch Visitors Bureau has been busy promoting the West

Branch Area with various ways, recently on the Great Getaways TV Show and through the Pure Michigan Travel Guides. The Visitors Bureau has brochures of information and a website packed with many adventures to do year round.

www.visitwestbranch.com

From the West Branch Visitors Bureau President Emil Rousseau “Make the most of this day! Love, Laugh and learn. But most of all don’t forget to love, play and dream. Make the difference today and not regret tomor-row.”

From WBACC Executive Director Heather Neuhaus “Stay focused, stay strong, learn, stay healthy and create your happiness”

From WBACC President Cindy Scott “Stay Positive and keep faith, and always remember… after every step back, make sure to take a step forward. That way it’s just Cha-Cha.”Chamber Board of Directors:

President: Cindy Scott, Stephenson & Company, PLC.

Vice President: Dan Eillott, Diebold Insurance Agency

Treasurer: Nikki Biermann, Mercantile Bank

Secretary: Scott Bell, Lapham Associates

Emil Rousseau, Forward Conference Center

Michelle Frechette, City of West Branch

Mark Pacella, Towne Club Party Store

Chamber Ambassadors:Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Kathy Collins, M&I Graphics and Promotions and Ogemaw County Voice

Lois Bergquist, Ogemaw Genealogical and Historical Society

Grange Bell, Ogemaw County Voice

Sandi Bell, Decorative Essentials

Jacquie Farrand, The Brook Retirement

Dave Celeskey, Mercantile Bank

Linda DeColumna, Portraits By Linda

Melanie Nolan, Ogemaw County Title & Escrow Agency

Tracy Williams, Chemical Bank

Cori Lucynski, MidMichigan Health

Kayla Marie Dillion, Forward Conference Center

Eric Noeker, Huron Community Bank

June 17th(Could be postponed)A new date has not been set yet.

Community