Weekly Choice - April 12, 2012

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112 E. Sixth St., PO Box 382, Gaylord, MI 49734 www.WeeklyChoice.com (989) 732-8160

Weekly ChoiceA ChoiceChoicePublication

Offering training forboth beginning andadvanced students,the Harbor SpringsFencing Club is located at 8220Clayton Road (Harbor LightGymnasium) in Harbor Springs.Courtesy Photo

HIDDEN TREASURES

Challenge Mountain

Resale Shops,

located in Boyne City

and Petoskey, offer a wide

range of donated clothing and

household items for sale with

proceeds utilized to help sup-

port Challenge Mountainsongoing mission.

Courtesy Photo.

Harbor SpringsFencing Club

Positive News,

Sports andEvents

20/20 PROJECT

Thursday, April 12, 2012

& More!

Covering 40 Towns in Northern Michigan including Gaylord, Petoskey,

Cheboygan, Grayling, Lewiston, Mancelona, Mio, Indian River and surrounding area.

ChallengeMountain Resale

By Jim Akans

Each year, the Volunteer Center of

Otsego County honors and recognizes

the outstanding community service of

individuals, organizations, families,

groups and businesses at a very specialSpirit of Volunteerism Awards ceremo-ny. This year, the event will take placeon next Saturday, April 21st, at theKnights of Columbus Hall located a few

By Jim Akans

Ah, spring break! At a time when stu-dents in Northern Michigan typically headoff to warmer climates, or perhaps tosocial media on the internet, play videogames, watch a lot of TV, ormaybeattend a day long discussionsabout the quality of life in Otsego County?

That is the option 12 area studentschose to dedicate part of their springbreak retreat to this past Wednesday, gath-ering at the Otsego County CommunityFoundation office for a day long interac-tive discussion about how to involve teensin bringing their opinions and ideas into

the Otsego County Quality of Life surveythat is currently underway.

Bri Morris, a participant in lastWednesdays brainstorming session stat-ed, I became part of this youth panelbecause I feel it is important to beinvolved in this community. This is great

way to do that. Teens need to have theirvoices heard.

Morriss sentiments were echoedaround the table As the Quality of Lifesurvey moves from previous stages that

SEE AREA YOUTH PAGE 4A

Annual Spirit of

Volunteerism Awardscelebrates outstanding

community service

Craft&Flea

Market

atNorthlandSportsmen's

Club

1592OldAlbaRoad,Gaylo

rd

Saturday,April21

9amto4pm

FREEADMISSION

Lunchavailable.

Antiques,Crafts,GarageSalesItems,

SportingGoodsandawho

lelotmore!

STORYPAGE 10

By Jim Akans

Whether an existing businessor entrepreneur gathering infor-mation in preparation for a newbusiness launch, you wont wantto miss this exciting and inform-

ative opportunity to attend theannual Employer Forum to beheld at Treetops Resort inGaylord on Wednesday, April25th. However, the April 18thdeadline for registering toattend this half-day event is fast

approaching, and the veryreasonable $20 fee includeslunch, plenty of networkingopportunities, and a wealthof valuable business infor-

Inside...

SEE SPIRIT OF VOLUNTEERISM PAGE 4A

STORYPAGE 5

GAYLORD

1390 Main St. West

989-732-8200

Business

Consultant

Denise Hansen

will be among

the featured pre-

senters at the

2012 Employer

Forum atTreetop Resort

talking place on

April 25th. The

registration

deadline for this

event is April

18th.

SEE FORUM PAGE 4A

20/20 .....................10 - 11

Classifieds......................5B

Health .....................13 - 15

Inspirational Page............12

OCCOA News.................. 15

READ................................7

Real Estate.................... 6BWeather............................3

choiceweekly.com

index

Taking some precious time from their much welcome spring break retreat, these 12 students gathered at theOtsego County Community Foundation office last Wednesday to explore ways to involve teens in bringing

their opinions and ideas into the Otsego County Quality of Life survey that is currently underway. Clockwisefrom left; Savannah Sullivan, Geoff Wind, Ellen Burns, Bri Morris, Mikayla Waun, Sammie Campbell,

Danielle Rola, Ty Coonrod, Riley Elliott, Ashley Reaume, Brittany Blunt, and William Oldenburg.

Courtesy Photo

989-705-7005

Store Hours

Mon. - Sat. 12 p.m. - 8 p.mSunday Race Day 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Performance Raceway & Hobbies

Boats, Planes, Cars, Trucks & Helicopters Under NewOwnership!

180 Fairview, Gaylord, MI 49735Across from Fairgrounds Entranceemail: [email protected]

Registration deadline isApril 18th forAnnual

Employer Forum

Be a part of honoring the extraordinary community service of the individuals and

organizations recognized at the 2012 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards to be held at

the Knights of Columbus hall in Gaylord on April 21st.

Area youth a dynamiccomponent in Otsego County

QUALITY OF LIFE study

Photo by Jim AkAns

Photo by Jim AkAns


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April 12, 2012 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! Page 3

WEATHER:

ThursdayHigh 53

Low 32

FridayHigh 58

Low 44

SaturdayHigh 60

Low 47

SundayHigh 65

Low 38

MondayHigh 54

Low 37

TuesdayHigh 55

Low 38

RECORD TEMPERATURESApril Sunrise Sunset Avg. High Avg. Low Mean Record High Record Low

12 7:00 AM 8:20 PM 52F 28F 40F 78F (1968) 9F (1976)

13 6:58 AM 8:21 PM 52F 29F 40F 75F (1968) 12F (1992)

14 6:56 AM 8:22 PM 52F 29F 41F 79F (2003) 10F (1996)

15 6:54 AM 8:24 PM 53F 29F 41F 80F (2002) 15F (1981)16 6:53 AM 8:25 PM 53F 30F 42F 86F (2002) 14F (1980)

17 6:51 AM 8:26 PM 54F 30F 42F 84F (1976) 14F (1983)

18 6:49 AM 8:27 PM 54F 31F 43F 81F (1976) 16F (1983)

19 6:48 AM 8:29 PM 55F 31F 43F 80F (1977) 11F (1983)

20 6:46 AM 8:30 PM 56F 31F 43F 83F (1987) 13F (1983)

21 6:44 AM 8:31 PM 56F 32F 44F 81F (1952) 11F (1993)

LOCAL NEWSOn-line at www.weeklychoice.com

B O Y N E M O U N T A I N

By Jim Akans

It may very well be one of the tastiest fundrais-

ers of the year. Next weekend, April 20th and 21st,

prepare those appetites for a feast because that is

the date for 2012 Chefs Challenge event, a

fundraiser for the non-profit Challenge Mountain

organization. Taking place at Boyne Mountain

resort, the Chefs Challenge event has been her-

alded as Michigans premier epicurean gathering,

focusing on Michigan made dishes prepared by

area chefs and culinary students, plus a tantaliz-

ing assortment of local wines and beverages from

microbreweries. What a delicious way to sample

some of the finest foods and drinks our wonderful

state has to offer.

Mike Hurchick, event co-chair, states, This is

our 5th year for this event, which was started by

Joe Briedenstien as a fundraiser for Challenge

Mountain. Chefs Challenge also coincides with

Michigan Splendor week, which fits perfectly for

an event that promotes Michigan chefs and culi-

nary programs.

Chefs Challenge weekend kicks off on Friday,

April 20th, with the Future Chefs Challenge

competition starting at 6 pm in the Boyne

Mountain Civic Center. High school student

teams will prepare hors doeuvres for a Peoples

Choice award and for a panel of celebrity judges.

The evening will also feature the Chefs Challenge

Taste of Michigan competition; designed to show-

case Michigan food and drink products through

creative meal applications. Chefs from Michigan

establishments will prepare an entre created withindigenous Michigan products paired with a

Michigan wine and micro-brew. Event attendees

will vote for the Peoples Choice award, and a

panel of judges will select the contestants who will

appear in Saturdays Iron Chef style competi-

tion.

Hurchick relates, The two final chefs in

Saturdays competition will have no clue what

they will be cooking. They are given 45 minutes to

come up with as many plates as they can; hors

doeuvres, salad, entre, dessertand they will be

judged by professional chefs and writers. The

winner will become the 2012 Chefs Challenge

winner, which has become a highly prized title.

Other activities and events on Saturday, April

21st will include a series of food seminars and

demonstrations at the Boyne Mountain Civic

Center from 9 am to 3:45 pm, a forum for

Michigan food vendors to display the wide varietyof quality Michigan farm products from 9 am to 3

pm, and a Center-of-the-Plate Competition from

11 am until 2 pm.

The Chefs Challenge Iron Chef style competi-

tion will take place from 6:30 to 9 pm Attendees

will enjoy a four-course meal prepared by the

Boyne Mountain staff during the chefs cook-off

event, and the Boyne City High School video class

will set up three large screen television so diners

can watch the Chefs Challenge up close during

their meal while two emcees offer commentary as

the competition proceeds. Following the dinner,

the Street Corner band will play 50s and 60s

dance music for a $10 admission and a cash bar

will be available.

It all promises to be yet another delicious, and

entertaining Chefs Challenge weekend, and as

always, proceeds will help benefit the ongoing

efforts of Challenge Mountain.Mike Hurchick, who is also the Challenge

Mountain program director, affirms, A great part

of Chefs Challenge is that it helps help raise funds

for our program at Challenge Mountain. Since

1984, we have provided a free opportunity for any-

one with a disability to enjoy the outdoors, with

activities such as skiing, kayaking, sailing, camp-

ing, hiking, and more.

Tasting tickets for the Friday, April 20th event

are available for $10, Tasting Tickets for Saturday

afternoon are available for eight for $25 or four for

$15, and individual seats for the Iron Chef Cook-

off Dinner are $75. For a detailed schedule and list

of this years participants, visit www.chefs-chal-

lenge.com.

By Jim Akans

Its springtime in northern Michigan, and love is in the air.

That means it is time once again to present the 2012 Annual

Northern Michigan Bridal Expo, sponsored by the Charlevoix

County News, Weekly Choice newspapers and Boyne

Mountain Resort, featuring a wide array of area merchants

and wedding service providers who will be gathering at the

Boyne Mountain Civic Center on Sunday afternoon, May

20th from 1 to 5 pm.This is a must attend event for couples planning to

exchange wedding vows within the next year or so, states

Cindy Akans, event coordinator. Planning and exploring

ideas for a wedding is a fun experience, and often the more

lead-time a couple allows will maximize their options for

their big day.

In addition to a host of wedding-related vendors that will

include caterers, wedding gown shops, florists, wedding

planners, wedding cake designers, facilities for holding a

wedding and/or reception, and more, activities will include a

live bridal fashion show that has been a hallmark of the

afternoon during previous expos.

This years Expo at Boyne Mountain promises to be enter-

taining, informative, and exciting, notes Cindy Akans. Its a

fun, free and a fabulous way to explore the possibilities forcreating a very special, and memorable wedding day.

The 2012 Northern Michigan Bridal Expo is free to attend.If your business supplies products or services for area wed-

dings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, bachelor or bache-lorette parties, reserve your booth space now for this excitingevent.

For more information, please checkout Facebook atNorthern Michigan Bridal Expo or contact Cindy Akans at(989) 858-3910 or email [email protected].

Next weekends 2012 Chefs Challenge

fundraiser an epicurean delight!

2012 Northern Michigan BridalExpo to be held on May 20th

Next weekend, April 20th and 21st, prepare those appetites for a feast because that is thedate for 2012 Chefs Challenge event, a fundraiser for the non-profit Challenge Mountain

organization.

PhotoCourtesyofMatthew hallaCy & Dianna staMPfler

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Page 4 Choice Publications ... The Best Choice! April 12, 2012


Area Youth Continued...included mail-in and online surveys and into the next phaseinvolving interactive focus groups, survey organizers felt thatinput from area teens is a vital and dynamic component innot only evaluating current strengths and shortcomingsregarding life in the county, but also an essential link inpreparing for the future.

This initial session was led by Dana Bensinger and BethanPrykuci, and the goal was to identify what this group of stu-dents like about life in the community, what they would liketo see change, and how to get other area teens involved inparticipating in the survey. Ideas for bringing other teensvoices into the survey included utilizing Facebook, teenactivities, creating an idea wall, and establishing a link onthe website for teen input.

Among the Likes conveyed during the session were that-people in this smaller sized community get to know oneanother, the uniqueness of Main Street areas, the family-ori-ented spirit, the abundant recreational opportunities offered,

and the beautiful natural environment. Areas the groupwould like to see change in the community included seeingmore activities for teens and families, increased job opportu-nities, and greater recreational options.

In many ways, this initial feedback reflects results from themail-in and recently completed online Quality of Life survey.

Among the preliminary data from the online survey was anoverwhelming response that the quality of life here is goodor very good (nearly 90-percent), a strong sense of belong-ing in the county (over 78-percent), a general feeling ofsafety living here (approximately 98-percent), and over 50-percent of respondents stated they live here because of theareas natural and scenic beauty.

Primary concerns from the preliminary online survey werefinancial (with nearly 40-percent of respondents stating theyhad just enough or not enough money to live on), youthbullying (81-percent), and recycling (with over 98-percent ofrespondents agreeing or strongly agreeing that recycling is

good for the environment).

In addition efforts to bring input from area youth into the

Quality of Life study, a series of interactive focus groups are

planned in the coming months to provide in-depth feedback

into issues and factors affecting the current and future of life

in the county. This extensive survey and assessment has

been developed and is under implementation in OtsegoCounty to help assess the quality of life residents in the

county experience in 12 key areas. Administered through the

Northeast Michigan Council for Governments (NEMCOG),

and implemented through the cooperation and participation

of several area agencies and organizations including the

MSU Extension, County of Otsego, Otsego County Township

Officers Association, District Health Department, Otsego

County Community Foundation and the Otsego County

United Way, the goal is to reveal these quality of life findings

in a report anticipated to be released in early 2013.

Forum continued... Spirit ofVolunteerism continued...

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5/16



Otsego County is pleased to announce

that it has been awarded a $19,000 grant by

the Otsego County Community Foundation

(OCCF) towards the Otsego County

Aerospace Diversification Project. The grant

was made possible by the Dr. Patrick J.

McNamara Fund, Scott and Janice Lampert

Fund, and the Deerfield Computer

Associates Fund. The Aerospace

Diversification Project consists of three dis-

tinct phases with a total cost of $163,000.

The County is currently in Phase 1, which

includes researching and identifying aero-

space and defense concepts and niche proj-

ects that would fit at the Gaylord RegionalAirport, utilizing existing infrastructure.

Explorer Solutions has been contracted by

the County to lead this process, which is

expected to be completed in the fall of 2013.

Phase 2 will include researching, meeting

with, and mobilizing strategic partners, cre-

ating a steering committee, and refining the

project. Phase 3, which the OCCF grant is

helping fund, includes choosing the target

industry/use, conducting market analysis,

feasibility studies and implementation of a

plan. The goal is to study the feasibility of

attracting or expanding aerospace related

manufacturing or services into Otsego

County and if feasible, implement a project

in order to create new jobs. Otsego County

is very grateful to OCCF and the donor foun-

dations for helping to make this project a

reality.

"We believe the (Aerospace

Diversification) project is an exciting oppor-

tunity for our community to seek and find

new industries, growth opportunities, and

jobs. It's a privilege and pleasure to collabo-

rate with a group of individuals that share

this vision, making possible this grant

opportunity. Individually the grant request

was probably not in the cards for this grant

cycle, but together we were able to do some-

thing that we hope will be of benefit to

everyone. Teamwork is the foundation of

success for our community!"

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H I D D E N T R E A S U R E S

By Jim Akans

In 1984, the Challenge Mountain 501 (c)

(3) non-profit organization was founded to

raise funds to develop an adaptive ski pro-

gram to allow physically and mentally chal-

lenged individuals enjoy the thrill and

excitement of the sport of downhill skiing

free of charge. With a motto of If I can do

this I can do anything! the Challenge

Mountain organization grew over the years

to include Summer Games, Day Camps,

Overnight Camps, Camp Quality, Winter

Games and much more.

Challenge Mountain Resale Shops, located

in Boyne City and Petoskey, offer a wide

range of donated clothing and household

items for sale with proceeds utilized to help

support Challenge Mountains ongoing mis-

sion. The 6,600 square foot facility in Boyne

City and 4,200 square foot facility in

Petoskey each present a seemingly endless

array of mens, womens and childrens cloth-

ing items, books, music, furniture, linens,

glassware and other household items to

select from.

The Boyne City store is located at 1158 S.

M-75, just east of Boyne City toward Boyne

Falls (where the facility was actually once

located), and the Petoskey store is at 2429 US

31 North across from Houghton Gas.

Each store is open Monday through Friday

from 10 am until 4 pm, and on Saturdays

from 10 am until 3 pm. For additional infor-

mation about Challenge Mountain, please

call (231) 582-5711 or visit www.cmski.org.

Challenge Mountain Resale Shops in

Boyne City andPetoskey

Challenge Mountain Resale Shops, located in Boyne City and Petoskey, offer a widerange of donated clothing and household items for sale with proceeds utilized to help

support Challenge Mountains ongoing mission.

the Otsego County Community Foundation (OCCF) has awarded a $19,000 granttowards the Otsego County Aerospace Diversification Project. Shown here (left toright): Paul Beachnau Chair Person County Commissioner, Dana Bensinger OCCF

Executive Director, Janice Lampert Donor, Bob McNamara Donor, Jeff RatcliffeOtsego County Economic Alliance Executive Directo Mike Deerfield, Deerfield

Computer Associates Fund.

In the Rough, Professionally Paintedor Completely Restored

Over 7,000 sq. ft. of Furnit ure, Antiques & 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

Courtesy Photo

Otsego County Community Foundation awardsgrant to Otsego County Aerospace

Diversification Project

We buy unwanted, broken or scrap goldand all collector coins.

We pay the public more than any otherdealer in Northern Michigan.

NO Games, NO Gimmicks, NO Altered Scales

Just honest cash value.

989-448-2400

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Remember, WE PAY MOREthan anyone in Northern Michigan.

Alpine Gold &

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QUEENS $169 FULLS $149TWINS

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www.greatroomsgaylord.com

facebook.com/greatrooms

148 W. Main St., Downtown Gaylord

989-748-4849

Trees Down in Your Yard? Call Shawn Thomas Today

Courtesy Photo


6/16


LOCAL NEWSNew stories updated daily on-line at www.weeklychoice.com

GAYLORDfc PcuvDave Ramsey's FinancialPeace University at GaylordE-Free Church, starting Wed.,

April 11, 6:30-8:30pm for 10weeks. If you miss the firstclass, this can be made uponline easily. Membershipkit for the class is $100/cou-ple. Call the church office toregister. 989-732-2647.

Northern Michiganscm North Central Area CreditUnion has informed us thatautomated phone calls arebeing made informing mem-bers their Debit card hasbeen compromised and ask-ing them to enter personalinformation and card num-

bers. This is a scam! If youreceive a call, hang up andcall the credit union.

GRAYLINGP wkp

April 12, 19 and 26 from 6-8pm at the AuSable Artisan

Village -Poetry Workshopwith Aaron Raymond willfocus closely on poems-in-progress brought to the

workshop, we will exploretogether what elements are

working, and what can bestrengthened, to help realizeeach poems potential. Welltalk about line, image,metaphor, sound, structure,

voice and surprise, with theaim of opening up possibili-ties for the work at hand. The

workshop fee: AAV Members:$40 per class / Non-Members: $45 per class. If

you pay for all 4 classes inadvance the fee is: AAVMembers: $125 / Non-Members: $145. www.art-galleryaav.org

CHEBOYGANh vcMcLaren Health Careremains committed to thecontinuation of healthcareservices in the Cheboygancommunity, developing a

physician-based rather thana hospital-based model ofcare. As such, the primaryand specialty care physiciansof Cheboygan are now affili-ated with McLaren-NorthernMichigan, and will be avail-able to continue to servetheir patients in convenientCheboygan locations.Patients may call thePhysician Referral Line atMcLaren-Northern Michiganin Petoskey at 877.568.5598to learn more.

GAYLORDn nEvery Thursday 6pm - 8pm.Bring your 4th - 8th gradegroup of 3-4 players for team

competitions. Prizes for thewinners. Many game styles,Gold Grab, Resurrection,Castle Siege, Dog Tags.Reservations required 989-748-4050.

GRAYLINGy M hThursday, April 12th at3:30pm at DevereauxMemorial Library. Kids ages6-12 can release their innersuperhero and meet TheCardinal comic book creatorKurt Kolka. Think up yourown super name and crimestopping power at a programfilled with stories, fun and

super treats, too! Sign up at348-9214.

GAYLORDPgpMonday 10-noon or Friday10-noon. Weekly schedule isvery affordable. Snack pro-vided plus structured activi-ties and crafts.

GAYLORDB

You're invited to BusinessAfter Hours on April 11thsponsored by PrudentialPreferred Properties Networkand Alpine Tavern & Eatery.This networking event willtake place from 5-7pm at

Alpine Tavern & Eatery whereyou can enjoy the companyof fellow business profes-sionals as well as sample

wonderful food made by thestaff at Alpine Tavern &Eatery. The cost is $5 forChamber Members and $10for non-members. The 50/50drawing for the AprilBusiness After Hours willbenefit the Friends for Life ofOtsego County.

GAYLORDwg cgDo your need to get rid ofsome winter weight? FourStar Nutrition will be startinga new Weight Loss Challengeon Thursday, April 12 at 6pm.Call 989-448-8618 for moreinformation.

GRAYLINGe DThe Community is invited toattend an Easter Dinner onThursday, April 12th from 4-6pm. Menu includes BakedHam, Mashed SweetPotatoes, Green Bean

Casserole, Spiced AppleRings and Cherry CheeseTart. The meal is only $4.75per person with a suggesteddonation of $2.50 for people

over 60. Dinner is open to thepublic and no reservationsare required. TheCommission on Aging &Senior Center is located at308 Lawndale Street. Formore information contactthe Senior Center at 989-348-7123.

GAYLORDrmmg sMarketplace for Missions atFirst United MethodistChurch is hosting a rummagesale April 13, 9am - 5pm and

April 14, 9am - Noon.Clothing and a variety ofhousehold items will be

available for 50 cents and $1.Fill one of our bags onSaturday for $1. Some itemsare priced more than $1. Allproceeds support many localmissions such as OtsegoCounty food pantry,Friendship center, Salvation

Army and New LifePregnancy Center in additionto others throughout the

world.

PETOSKEYt M GmBd

April 13 - the Two ManGentlemen Band at CrookedTree Arts Center, 8pm. Shows

are $15 advance, $10 mem-bers advance, $20/$15 door,$20/$15 reserved, students price. Advanced tickets avail-able at Crooked Tree, GrainTrain, Petoskey Chamber andBlissfest.

GRAYLINGBk Relay for Life is sponsoring abake sale April 14, 9am - 3pmat Glens Market

GAYLORDCvSt. Mary Cathedral School inGaylord will be hosting aCarnival and Family to

Family Sale on Saturday,April 14, from 10am until2pm. Join the fun and enjoygames and activities for boysand girls of all ages, includingcake and toy walks, Nerfhockey, fishing hole, beanbag and football toss, facepainting, food, beveragesand more. Clean out the clos-ets and rent a table for ourindoor Family to Family Sale.Tables are $15 to rent; youtake all you make. Proceedsfrom the carnival and salebenefit St. Mary CathedralSchool classrooms. Theschool is located at 321 N.Otsego. Call 989-619-5100 or

e-mail [email protected] more information or toreserve a sale table.

ROSCOMMONt Mgc BBgg lv!Saturday, April 14th at 7pm atKirtland Center for the

Performing Arts -Critics andaudiences alike rave abouthis incredible high-energy,grand-scale magic & illusionthat will have you rubbing

your eyes in disbelief. Calledsimply amazing by ChicagoTribune, Blaggs show ispacked with NEW mind-blowing illusions and histrademark off-the-cuff per-sonality that make this showa great family event!

Audience volunteers will lev-itate in mid-air, others willvanish in the blink of an eyeand so much more! This isone show you cant afford tomiss! Witness live over 90minutes of interactive,action-packed magic & illu-sion performed by the coun-trys most prominent magicalstar, Bill Blagg! Ticket Prices:$22 (A/B) & $18 (C/D).

Purchase tickets online atwww.kirtlandcenter.com orby calling the Ticket Office.

GAYLORDMm 2 Mm s

April 14 Gaylord E-Free willhost a Mom 2 Mom Sale from8am-noon.

GRAYLINGhpFamily Movie MatineeSaturday! HOP Saturday,

April 14th at 1:30pm atDevereaux Memorial Library.Sign up for this animated fea-ture, fun for the whole fami-lypopcorn included. 989-348-9214.

Northern Michiganf tx hpLow-to-moderate incomefamilies and individuals, sen-iors, persons with disabilitiesand limited English profi-ciency qualify for free helppreparing their income taxes.The free tax service is offeredat locations throughoutnorthwest lower Michigan.Trained volunteers prepareand electronically file bothfederal and state returns.Please call one of these

Volunteer Tax Sites to makean appointment. NMCAAoffice, (231) 347-9070; DHSoffice, Bellaire, 205 E. CayugaSt. (231) 533-7324; LocalLibraries in Boyne City, 201 E.Main St. (231) 582-7861;Charlevoix, 220 W. Clinton St.(231) 547-2651; Roscommon,243 E. Federal Hwy. (989)281-1305. Bring your socialsecurity, pension and intereststatements, wages and earn-ings statements (Form W-2)from all employers, your2010 tax return and other rel-evant information aboutincome and expenses, as wellas, social security cards andphoto ID.

GAYLORDskg ivGaylord Discovery Centerhas formed an LLC and isnow ready to take onInvestors. Individuals withinterest in assisting this com-munity resource grow,

expand, and succeed shouldcontact Kyle Johnston at 989-748-4050. Any level of sup-port will be appreciated, vol-unteer time, material dona-

tions, or financial large andsmall.

GRAYLINGBg wv s

April 21 at the AmericanLegion Hall, 106 James St.9am - 3pm. Vendor Tables are$10 plus one donated itemfor silent auction. ContactRose Mary Nelson, 989-348-2985 by March 31.

VANDERBILTMc jm3rd Thursday of every monthat Corwith Township hall. 6-9pm. Call Billie at 989-983-4185.

PETOSKEYf fcwkpLearn from experts how toprevent your home fromgoing into foreclosure.Michigan residents continueto fall victim to the troubledeconomy. Residents whoseek housing assistance innorthwest Michigan can findhelp with the NorthwestMichigan Community Action

Agency (NMCAA). FreeForeclosure PreventionEducation workshops areavailable in NMCAAsTraverse City, Petoskey, and

Cadillac offices.Homeowners will learn howto avoid foreclosure and thedifferent foreclosure pro-grams that are available.NMCAA, a certified HUD andMSHDA Housing Counseling

Agency, will also educatehomeowners about the fore-closure process and counselfamilies on budgeting fortheir personal financial situ-ation. Homeowners do nothave to be within the actualforeclosure process to accessthese services. Many areavailable to assist before acrisis actually occurs to keepthe clients out of the foreclo-

sure process altogether. Fordetails or more information,or learn about the workshop,please call 231-947-3780 or(800) 632-7334. NMCAAs

website is www.nmcaa.net.

NORTHERN MICHIGANC exb -wddg eXPoExhibitors will visit withbrides-to-be from all overNorthern Michigan at theNorthern Michigan WeddingEXPO on Sunday, May 20 atBoyne Mountain Resort.Interested in having a boothat this show? Currentexhibitors include Bridal

shops, Florists,Photographers, Caterers, HallRental, Decorators, WeddingPlanners, DJs. Entertainers,Limo Services, TravelPlanners, Reception Venuesand more. Contact Cindy

Akans [email protected]

or phone 989-732-8160.Registration includes exhibitspace plus display ad in the

Wedding Planning Guide.EXPO begins at 1pm. Door

prizes drawn throughout theday. Fashion show at 3pm.Grand Prize drawing at4:45pm. Sponsored byBOYNE and the WeeklyChoice. Registration dead-line is May 3.

GRAYLINGn hcDc DThe Crawford CountyCommission on Aging &Senior Center in coordina-tion with Mercy HospitalGrayling, its affiliates, andother national, state andcommunity organizationsare leading a major effort tohighlight the importance ofadvance healthcare decision-making which is an effortthat has culminated in theformal designation of April16th as National HealthcareDecisions Day (NHDD). Jan

Williamson, RN, CHPN fromMercy Homecare & Hospice

will provide information andtools for the public to talkabout their wishes with fami-ly, friends and healthcareproviders. One-on-one assis-tance will be provided toassist people who want tocomplete an advance health-care directive. On April 16that 6pm the public is invitedto the Commission on Aging

& Senior Center, 308Lawndale St. for this freepresentation. Registration isnot required. Join us for aSalisbury Steak dinner at5pm before the presentation.People 60 and over eat for asuggested donation of $2.50.Those under 60 can eat for acost of $4.75. For additionalinformation call 989-348-7123.

INDIAN RIVERe gg Come to Indian Rivers

Annual Easter egg hunt April17, 11am at Cooperation ParkOpen to toddlers, preschool& elementary-aged children.Grand Prizes will be given inevery age group!

GRAYLINGBk

AuSable Primary & GraylingElementary Spring SchoolBook Fair! April 17th 20th atthe Grayling ElementaryMultipurpose Room (old GELibrary). The Book Fair runsTuesday, April 17th 8-9amand 1:30-4pm / Wednesday,

April 18th 8-9am and 3-7pm/ Thursday, April 19th 8-9amand 3-5pm / Friday, April20th 8-9am and 3-4pm.

GAYLORDfoe ax scpThe Fraternal Order of Eagles

Auxiliary #1825 are offeringtwo $500 scholarships againthis year to graduating sen-iors that are going to collegethis fall. Applications areavailable at Gaylord High,

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Gaylord St Mary's,Vanderbilt, JoBurg and at theclub. Applications are to beturned in by April 18. Lateapps will not be accepted.

The Ladies Auxiliary will behaving their 67h anniversarydinner at the club March28th at 6pm. Sign up sheet isat the club, cost will be $5.Nominations for officers willbe on April 18 and election

will be on May 2.

GRAYLINGf tx adacThe Crawford CountyCommission on Aging &Senior Center in conjunction

with IRS Volunteer IncomeTax Assistance program(VITA) helps low and moder-ate income taxpayers (lessthan $60,000 annually), withspecial attention to those 60and older, file their personalincome tax returns.

Volunteers are trained toassist in filing tax forms andbasic schedules, includingthe 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ.

Assistanc e with filing theHome Heating Credit,Earned Income Tax Creditand Property Tax Credit isalso available. The last day tofile is April 16. Call the SeniorCenter at 989-348-7123 toschedule your appointment.

PETOSKEYDc cDance department class

offerings for children andadults include ballet, dancefusion, and modern dance.Classes run through June 9,culminating in a full-lengthproduction of the Wizard ofOz. Students will learn theart of dance and perform-ance by studying technique,the clarity of line and phras-ing, and the importance ofstage projection. Ballet anddance fusion are available forbeginners through pre-pro-fessional, ages four and up.For more information onthese classes or other pro-grams offered at CrookedTree Art Center go online to

www.crookedtree.org or callthe arts center at 231-347-4337.

GAYLORDh B w

April 17 Saks Wellness Center

will hold a workshop on HowTo Be Well at 6:30pm.

GRAYLINGG f K

Thursday, April 18th at3:30pm at DevereauxMemorial Library -Havesome flying fun and learnhow to build your own kite

with expert Janet Gross.Program filled with stories,craft and a snack, too.

Weather permitting; we willtake our project outside.

Appropriate for kids ages 6-12. Sign up at 348-9214.

CHEBOYGANPjc Cc

A day of free services forthose in need throughout thecounty. Thursday, April 19thfrom 10am to 2pm at the

National Guard Armory 610Cuyler St. For more informa-tion contact Bernie atCheboygan County United

Way at 231-627-2288

GRAYLINGnv amcMc aThursday, April 19th from 7-9pm at the AuSable Artisan

Village Art Center The AAVpresents Native AmericanMusic Award Debut ArtistNominee Joseph Strider whois a singer, songwriter andaccomplished guitarist ofLipan Apache heritage. Hisunique style is best described

as Modern IndigenousAlternative. Cost: Members$8 / Non-Members $10.

www.artgalleryaav.org

GRAYLINGGPa kg Pc ompctmThe 25th Annual PictionaryOlympics will take placeonce again this year at theGrayling Eagles Club on

Friday, April 20th at 7pm andthe GPA is looking for newand returning teams to comeout and put your drawingskills to the test!!

GAYLORDM' ccGet your tickets now for theHigher Call Men'sConference at theEvangelical Free Church

April 21. The day long eventfeatures guests Fred Stoeker,the Stand Strength Team andDavid Dean. To order ticketsgo to www.ahighercall.comor phone the church at 989-732-2647. $30 if purchased by4/10. After 4/10 price is $35.

CHARLEVOIXsg dSingles for Christ dinner

group for ALL area singles 50years and older will meetSaturday, April 21st, 6pm atKelsey Bs, 230 Ferry St. Afterdinner, Card & Game Night atLucys! Bring a snack to shareand your own beverage.Restaurant reservations arerequired so RSVP by callingFrieda at 231-347-5747 or e-mail [email protected]

GRAYLINGtd sSpring can be a fun time ofthe year, but it can also be atime for severe weather,especially tornados. How can

you know if a tornado is

imminent and what do youdo if a tornado appears like-ly? This fourth in our S.A.F.E.(Smart Alert FocusedEducated) Series features JimKeysor of the National

Weather Service office inGaylord. Mr. Keysor willbring his 18 years of weatherservice experience to bear ashe shares information thatcan help keep you safe. Learnhow to prepare for tornado

weather and what to do if a

tornado strikes. Join us forthis free presentation at theCrawford CountyCommission on Aging &Senior Center, 308 Lawndale

at 11am on Thursday, April19th to hear Mr. Keysor. Adoor prize will be given awayat the end of the presenta-tion. This free presentation

will be at the CrawfordCounty Commission on

Aging & Senior Center, 308Lawndale Street. Join us for abeef burrito lunch at Noonafter the presentation.People 60 and over eat for asuggested donation of $2.50.Those under 60 can eat for acost of $4.75. For additionalinformation call 989-348-7123.

GRAYLINGf Dvc CcThe 46th Judicial Circuit Bar

Association, Legal Services ofNorthern Michigan and RiverHouse Womens Shelter willhold free monthly divorceclinics open to communitymembers who cannot affordto hire an attorney and arerepresenting themselves.Clinic locations will alternatebetween Otsego andCrawford Counties. The clin-ics in Crawford County areheld at the Crawford CountyCourthouse on, April 19,5:30pm.

GRAYLINGh h pHanson Hills Disc GolfCourses & Mountain Biketrails are open for the season.

Visit www.hansonhills.org/Disc_Golf.html for disc golfmaps and www.hanson-hills.org/Mt.html for moun-tain bike trail maps.

ROSCOMMONyg c cmpCOOR Area Young Scholars

Camp at KirtlandCommunity College needs

your support. COOR AreaYoung Scholars Camp is ask-ing for your support for the

brightest and highest achiev-ing elementary students inour communities. YoungScholars Camp serves as aneducational rewards pro-gram for those fourth gradestudents of Crawford,Ogemaw, Oscoda &Roscommon Counties whodemonstrate exemplary per-formance on our state-man-dated MEAP test. Cost of theentire program is $30,000 about $100 per student.

While we gladly accept dona-tions, we highly encourage

you to Adopt-a-Student for$100 or Adopt-a-Class for$2,000.

GAYLORDGd mig Gyd

Youre invited to GoodMorning Gaylord on April20th from 8am-9am at

Wisconsi n Street Hall.Alpenfest will be the sponsorand speaker for this event

which will feature a breakfastbuffet provided by WisconsinStreet Hall. The cost is $10 forChamber Members and $15for Non-Members.

PRUDENVILLEn scpgwkpThe Muskegon River

Watershed AssemblyEducation Committee ishosting this workshop forhomeowners and landscap-ers on April 21st. It will beheld at the Denton TownshipHall in Prudenville from8:45am 4:15pm and pre-registration is requested by

April 13th. Registration andfurther info can be found at

www.mrwa.org or by calling231-591-2324.

PETOSKEYi w CChar-Em United Way is plan-ning their 2nd Instant WineCellar party on Friday, April

20 at 7pm at the Perry Hotelin Petoskey. The night willfeature a chance to win a col-lection of wine or 99 Bottlesof Shorts Beer and willinclude live entertainmentfrom Northern Michigan'sown Boyne River Remedy.Entry into the event is eithera bottle of wine, a six-pack ofcraft beet or $15. With thepurchase of raffle tickets,guests have a chance to "Winan Instant Wine Cellar - or 99Bottles of Craft Beer" fromthe donated beverages as

well as many other fantasticprizes. Adding to the enter-tainment, there will be a

silent auction, Stafford's horsd'oeuvres, as well as a cashbar. All proceeds from theInstant Wine Cellar event willsupport Char-Em United

Way's Volunteer Connectionsprogram. VolunteerConnections is a virtual vol-unteer center which pro-motes volunteerism in thecommunity and helps peoplefind opportunities that meettheir passion and interests.For more information or toRSVP for the party, contactUnited Way at 231-487-1006or [email protected], visit www.charemunit-edway.org, Events, or sign upon Facebook.

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The Gaylord Community Music School (GCMS) and

Gaylord Community Orchestra (GCO) are hosting a com-

petition for young musicians from the Gaylord area. The

winner of the 2012 GCMS Solo Competition will perform

her solo with the GCO on its May concert. It will take place

at Gaylords Peace Lutheran Church at 7:00 p.m. on

Saturday, April 21. The competition is free and open to the

public.

The five contestants, Claire Mammoser, Allie Rutkowski,

Katie Rutkowski, De-Shi Wang, and Jessica Wind, are

between ages 13 and 17 and are all of Gaylord. The Solo

Competition will be judged by third-party professional

musicians, and the winner will be accompanied by the

Gaylord Community Orchestra on its May 19 concert at

Gornick Auditorium.

The Gaylord Community Orchestra is a local group that

consists of many musicians from the Gaylord area as well

as members from across northern Michigan.

The orchestra performs 3-4 concerts each year. The GCO

repertoire includes many types of pops music in addition

to traditional classical favorites. Their upcoming concert

will feature music with nationalist themes, including

Dvorak s New World Symphony and Sibelius Finlandia.

For more information about the GCO and upcoming

concerts, visit http://gaylordorchestra.weebly.com.

Gaylord Community Music School

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Earth Week EXPO at Cheboygan High School

QUESTION: My teenager isconstantly texting or on thephone and is not showing anyinterest in doing things withthe family. Do you have somesuggestions on how we can re-engage our child and help herwant to do things with thefamily again?

JULI: No doubt about it, technology isa significant obstacle for communica-tion in the average American family,especially with teens in the home.Here's a two-prong strategy to deal withit:

First of all, set boundaries on the useof technology in your home. Don't makethis about your teenager; make it aboutthe kind of home environment that you

want to establish. Some reasonable andhelpful boundaries include no technol-ogy at meal times, during carpool, or inthe bedroom. Set those boundaries for

yourself as well as for your kids.Honestly, I am just as guilty as my 13-

year-old son is when it comes to lettingtechnology interrupt family time. Sure, Idon't text someone every three seconds

or play video games, but how often am Ipulled away from my family to checkemail or take a quick call?

Second, make family time a priority.Often, we as parents decide to havefamily time on the spur of the moment

when our schedule finally clears. Weexpect our kids to drop everything andbe excited about bonding with Momand Dad. Plan regular family times dur-ing which your kids know that youexpect them to be engaged. These caninclude a dinner routine of talkingabout your day, Friday night game ormovie nights, or a planned weekend

getaway.Don't take it personally if your teenstill prefers her cell phone to you. Even

when your kids are less than enthusias-tic about a family event, it still providesa critical connection with you.

** ** **

QUESTION: In order to tightenup the family budget, werecently got rid of our premi-um satellite TV package andswitched to basic cable. Butthat's not cheap, either. Canyou suggest other ways to trimour entertainment budgetwithout going totally TV-free?

JIM: First, let me say that there areworse things than going TV-free. TheDaly household eliminated the nightly

TV routine from our home long ago, andwe haven't regretted it for a minute.Don't knock it 'til you've tried it!

However, if you're not ready to takethat step, there's still a way to enjoy TV

without paying for it on a monthly basis.The New York Times reports that a grow-ing number of families are savingmoney by canceling their cable servicealtogether and attaching a good, old-fashioned antenna to their TV sets.

There are a number of TV antennamodels available, and a decent one willgenerally cost anywhere between $25and $150. But that's a one-time expense.There's no monthly fee after that. Ofcourse, you won't get the wide variety ofsports, movies and other programmingthat cable offers. But you'll get morethan enough channels to keep up withthe news and weather, and maybe a fewof your favorite shows. And if you live ina large urban area, your choices expanddramatically. The Nielsen Group reportsthat there are more than 40 free broad-cast channels available in Los Angeles,for example.

Just think -- your parents and grand-parents survived for decades watchingonly a handful of channels on broadcastTV. I doubt whether any of them wouldsuggest they were somehow "missing

out" by not having hundreds and hun-dreds of channels to choose from. Youand your family might con-sider the same arrangement... and save yourselves hun-dreds of dollars a year in theprocess!

** ** **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 2012Focus 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.

This good news for Your family brought to

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Ask about ourSenior Discount

Earth Week Plus is the Tip of the Mitt Regions celebrationof the environment in Northern Michigan. Area environmen-talists are sponsoring this event to help learn how to protectthe natural gifts we have here in our area. The Expo offers

many seminars on April 14 at Cheboygan High School fromNoon until 4:45pm.

Besides sessions for adults and children, the April 14 EarthWeek Expo features a light lunch, with snacks and drinksthroughout the afternoon. Participants will enjoy studentartwork, along with more than a dozen displays from spon-soring area businesses and organizations. Face-painting isoffered for free by the Cheboygan High School GreenDinosaurs.

In lieu of an admission fee for the Expo, participants maybring non-perishable food items to donate to our less fortu-nate neighbors through the St. Thomas Food Pantry.

Attendees also may bring any private papers they desire tohave shredded. Cheboygan Middle School students willshred them on the spot, at no cost, to create mulch for theschool garden.

Session A, 12:45 1:45 pm1. Crazy about Container Gardens by Pat Esther-Schmidt

of Pat's Posey Patch. Learn how to successfully plant anycontainer that can hold soil. Receive a list of suggestedplants for container gardens.

2. Basics of Bee Behavior and Beekeeping by DaleGiddings. Learn about the importance of bees to wildlife,agriculture, and ecosystem health. Get introduced to bee-keeping as a hobby.

3. Basic Poultry Raising by Susan Good. Learn how to carefor poultry in your own back yard, the equipment you willneed, and skills you will develop. Get tips on local options tobutcher the birds for food.

4. Little Traverse Conservancy: Northern Michigan's LandTrust by Melissa Hansen, Education Coordinator of LittleTraverse Conservancy. Learn how a land trust works and thisone's role in conservation in northern Michigan, especiallyCheboygan County. Gain information about Little TraverseConservancy's nature preserves, free education programs forlocal schools, and stewardship progress across its five countyservice region.

5. Birds and Their Nests An Inside Look by Kathy Brickerof Straits Area Audubon Society. Consider how nests are usedand discover first-hand how they are built by taking oneapart.

(age 8 and up)6. Wired for Wind by Melanie Chiodini of Michigan State

University Extension Service. Consider how to capture theenergy of wind for power. Design and build your own windmachines that you can take home. (age 8 and up)

7. Animal Adaptations Live! by Organization for BatConservation. Discover the most fascinating features andadaptations of many nocturnal animals, including bats, fly-ing squirrels, owls, and more, in this exciting multi-mediaprogram. Hearing, sight, smell, and ecosystems are explored.Live animals may include U.S. Insect-eating bat, owl, flyingsquirrel, sugar glider, straw-colored fruit bat. (age 4 and up)

8. Giant Building Blocks and Junk Band. All Ages. By KyleJohnston from Gaylord Discovery Center. Use your creativityand have fun as you build with Styrofoam blocks and makemusical instruments from recycled materials. (all ages)

Session B, 2:00 3:00 pm1. Animal Tracks: Who Goes There? By Maureen Stine of

Natureology. Learn how to identify animal tracks in sand,mud, and snow. Make plaster casts of sample tracks that can

be taken home afterward for reference. (suitable for entirefamily)

2. Feeding Birds in the Winter by Jim Bricker of Straits AreaAudubon Society. Learn about types of bird feed and feeders,including squirrel proof models, to attract different types ofbirds. See photographs of the most common winter feederbirds. Obtain information on how to be a citizen scientist bykeeping bird feeder records for Christmas Bird Counts,Michigan Audubon Society's Bird Feeder Survey andNational Audubon Society's Backyard Bird Feeding Survey.(suitable for the entire family)

3. What Are My Gardening Choices? by Lynda and DonTracey of Tracey Farm. Learn the pros and cons of your per-sonal options: grow your own food in a conventional garden;buy healthy food locally; work in exchange for garden pro-duce; or join a garden co-op.

4. Cars of the Future? By Jerry Kanka of Fernelius AutoGroup of Cheboygan. Learn about the rules relating toincreased gas mileage and how the automotive industry is

striving to comply with them. What is a hybrid car, how dothey work, and why might you want one? Discover the tech-nology that packs greater towing power into the new V-6engines than older V-8 pickup trucks. The talk will includeon-site tours of a Toyota Prius and a Ford with an eco-boostengine.

5. Build a Bluebird House by Pete Chimner and DaleGiddings. Learn about bluebirds, what they look like, wherethey come from and nest, and what makes them special.Build your own bluebird nesting box, with all materials andtools supplied. Learn how to paint, install and care for itonce you take it home. Participation limited by supplies, soregister upon arrival at the Expo. (age 8 to 12)

6. Owls and Their Prey by Sarah Mayhew, EducationCoordinator of Little Traverse Conservancy. Learn about the

world of owls and the special adaptations owls have to helpthem be such amazing hunters. Dissect an owl pellet to dis-cover how and what owls eat. Have lots of fun with hands-onactivities to learn about these birds of prey. (all ages)

7. Biodiversity Live! by Organization for Bat Conservation.Explore the amazing variety of wildlife on planet Earth.Discover the interconnectedness between plants and ani-mals. Topics include the balance of natural ecosystems, howhuman activities affect biodiversity through habitat destruc-tion, invasive species, and climate change. Learn simpleactions each person can take to protect wildlife from extinc-tion. Live animals include a bearded dragon, sugar gliderand a large fruit bat. (age 8 and up)

8. Giant Building Blocks and Junk Band. All Ages. By KyleJohnston from Gaylord Discovery Center. Use your creativityand have fun as you build with Styrofoam blocks and make

musical instruments from recycled materials. (all ages)

Session C, 3:15 pm1. Beyond the Bins by Dan O'Henley (Cheboygan County

Recycling Program) and Kate Melby (Emmet CountyRecycling Program). Learn about the power of recycling andhow it helps the environment and the economy. What hap-pens to your recyclables, how are they processed, who buysthem, and what do they become? Also learn how to safelydispose of household hazardous wastes in CheboyganCounty.

2. Hydroponics: Food for Thought by Tracie Kolhoff ofGrow Fast Gardens. Learn the history and future of hydro-ponics (the growing of plants in enriched water without soil).This method allows people to have flower and vegetable gar-dens indoors with artificial light. The talk will include practi-cal hydroponics garden tips for the hobbyist.

3. Hawks over Mackinaw by Steve Baker of Straits AreaAudubon Society. Experience second-hand the spring hawkmigration over Mackinac Straits. Enjoy rare photographs as

you view the types of hawks seen here, learn their identifyingcharacteristics, and discover why they fly through MackinawCity.

4. Presentation and Discussion on Energy Conservation byDave McKinley of Full Circle Contractors, Full Circle HomeCenter and Green Matter. Learn about energy and cost sav-ing home improvement ideas. www.fullcircleinc.net

5. Build a Bluebird House by Pete Chimner and DaleGiddings. Learn about bluebirds, what they look like, wherethey come from, why they're here, and what makes themspecial. Build your own bluebird nesting box, with all materi-als and tools supplied. Learn how to paint, install and carefor it once you take it home. Participation limited by sup-plies, so register upon arrival at the Expo. (age 8 to 12)

6. Mammals of Michigan by Sarah Mayhew, EducationCoordinator of Little Traverse Conservancy. Explore a largecollection of pelts from mammals native to northernMichigan. Learn fun facts about the way they adapt to near-by habitats, and play a fun game to test your memory! (allages)

7. Biodiversity Live! by Organization for Bat Conservation.Explore the amazing variety of wildlife on planet Earth.Discover the interconnectedness between plants and ani-mals. Topics include the balance of natural ecosystems, howhuman activities affect biodiversity through habitat destruc-tion, invasive species, and climate change. Learn simpleactions each person can take to protect wildlife from extinc-tion. Live animals include a bearded dragon, sugar gliderand a large fruit bat. (age 8 and up)

8. Giant Building Blocks and Junk Band. All Ages. By KyleJohnston from Gaylord Discovery Center. Use your creativityand have fun as you build with Styrofoam blocks and makemusical instruments from recycled materials. (all ages)

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY

TEEN HAS MOREINTEREST IN TEXTING

THAN FAMILY

with Jim Daly and Dr. Juli Slattery

Website: dowkermech.com

Home: 989.732.6122

Cell: 989.390.1404

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9/16


Team Elmers to award $5,000driveway to one lucky area resident

Is your driveway the worst in northern Michigan? Do you

really, really, really deserve a new one? Tell Team Elmers allabout it!

Thanks to Team Elmers one lucky resident will win $5,000

toward a new asphalt, concrete, gravel or crushed stone

driveway.

Visit www.TeamElmers.com and submit in writing (200

words or less) an essay explaining why your driveway is the

worst in northern Michigan or why you are most deservingof a new one. If you'd like, you can also opt to include up tothree (3) photos and/or a link to a video.

Each entry will be evaluated and scored based on the fol-lowing criteria:

(a) Artistic Merit how well you communicated your mes-sage(b) Creativity and Originality use of humor, art, and story

content(c) Need actual and extenuating circumstances that cre-

ate the need for a new driveway(d) Adherence to the entry requirements and rules.The contest is open throughout the month of April 2012

and one winner will be announced later this spring.

Award must be redeemed by August 31, 2013. Limit one

entry per household. Team Elmers employees and their

immediate families are not eligible.

Team Elmers commitment to excellence and its propri-

etary mix of Esphalt have earned numerous Awards ofExcellence from both the Michigan and National Asphalt

Associations. The company has provided thousands of

asphalt driveways throughout Michigan and offers free esti-

mates and a two-year guarantee on all residential asphalt

services.

Project Connect in Cheboygan is a day

of free services for those in need

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month


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If youre relatively young, and youvebeen investing only a few years, youpossess an asset that is invaluable and

cannot be replaced: time. And the moretime you spend contributing to tax-advantaged investments, the better off

you may be.As an investor, time is your ally for

two reasons. First, the more time yougive to your growth-oriented invest-ments, the greater their growth poten-tial. And second, the effects of marketvolatility have tended to decrease overtime, though as you no doubt haveheard, past performance is not a guar-antee of future results.

Clearly, it pays to put time on yourside. And when youre investing in tax-advantaged vehicles, time becomes aneven more critical component of invest-ment success, especially when you are

young and have several decades ahead

of you before you retire.Suppose, for example, that you put

$200 per month into an investment onwhich you paid taxes every year. If youearned a hypothetical 7% return on thisinvestment, youd end up with about$324,000 after 40 years. But if you putthat same $200 per month into a tax-deferred investment, such as a tradi-tional Individual Retirement Account(IRA), and you earned that same 7%return, youd wind up with about$513,000 after 40 years. Of course, once

you starting taking withdrawals, pre-sumably when youre retired, youll haveto pay taxes on your earnings, so yourafter-tax accumulation would be about$385,000, assuming you took your IRAin a lump sum (which most people

dont) and also assuming you were inthe 25% tax bracket. However, by thetime you retire, you may be in a lowerbracket. Plus, you have some controlover how much you withdraw each year,so you may be able to affect the taxes

youll pay. Furthermore, depending onyour income level, your contributions toa traditional IRA may be tax-deductiblein the years in which you make the con-

tributions. (Keep in mind that thishypothetical example is for illustrativepurposes only and does not represent a

specific investment or investment strat-egy.)

While tax deferral is obviously a nicefeature for an investment, tax-free maybe even better. If you meet the incomerequirements, you might want to con-sider investing in a Roth IRA, which pro-vides tax-free earnings withdrawals,provided youve held your account for atleast five years and you dont start taking

withdrawals until youre at least age59. This means that, in the aboveexample, youd have accumulated thatsame $513,000 but you wont have topay taxes on your withdrawals.Generally speaking, the Roth IRA maymake more financial sense for those

who are eligible, but if you think youllbe in a lower taxbracket when youretire, and yourincome level per-mits you to deductsome of your con-tributions, youmay want to con-sider a traditionalIRA. Consult with

your tax advisor forguidance on themost appropriateapproach for yoursituation.

When it comesto buildingresources forretirement, itsalmost impossibleto save and invest

too much. Sotake full advantageof both time andt a x - a d v a n t a g e dinvestments. Byputting theseinvestments to

work for you, andby keeping them at

work, youll be putting time on your side

as you work toward your financial goals.

This article was written by Edward

Jones 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)?

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

PUT TIME - AND TAX-ADVANTAGED

INVESTMENTS - ON YOUR SIDE

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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Do you have the WORST DRIVEWAY in Northern Michigan

By Jim Akans

Thursday, April 19th, is the date of the 4th Annual ProjectConnect, a day of free services for those in need, to be heldat the Michigan National Guard Cheboygan Armory from 10am until 2 pm. Sponsored by the Cheboygan CountyHousing & Homeless Coalition, Project Connect bringstogether a host of community organizations, businesses andindividuals to offer a huge range of services, assistance,products, screenings, food bags and moreall free of chargeduring this one-day event.

Organizers state that at last years event approximately 300individuals stopped by and over 43 agencies participated.Examples of what will be offered at this years ProjectConnect include;

- Employment and education assistance- Help finding a place to live

- Clothing vouchers- Assistance with paperwork for benefits

- Personal hygiene products- Hearing and vision tests, immunizations

- Help with budgeting and credit repair- Help finding licensed day care- Health screening

- Hair Cuts- On-site Day Care

- Food Bags available for each family attending- And moreThere is no appointment necessary, and there will be a free

lunch courtesy of The Drift Inn served from 11:30 am until 1pm. Those needing transportation to and from the event can

utilize a free ride offered by the Straits Regional Ride &Cheboygan County Council on Aging to and from ProjectConnect. Requests for rides must be scheduled by

Wednesday, April 18th by calling (231) 597-9262 for those on

the northern side of the County, and by calling (231) 597-4663 for those on the southern side of the County.

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Month,Lutheran Child & Family Service of Michigan (LCFS) wouldlike to thank the volunteers that donate their time, talentsand gifts to serve the children in our area. We have dedicat-ed volunteers from Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lewistonthat lovingly make quilts for each of our foster children.

Wanda Rickabus and Julie Tarrenne of Gaylord also gatherand assemble personal care packages for the foster childrenand the families that are served by our Families First team.

When a child is removed from their home and is placed intofoster care, it is a difficult and stressful time for parents, chil-dren and caseworkers and often the personal items that theyneed are not gathered. Through the work of these volun-teers, caseworkers are able to have the quilts and personalcare packages ready immediately for the children.

There are over 15,000 children living in foster care inMichigan. Lutheran Child & Family Service of Michigan isactively seeking loving, stable foster homes for the place-ment of these children in all of Northern Michigan. We offer

a no obligation Foster Parent Orientationonce a month. The next orientation is scheduled onTuesday, May 8th from 6-9 pm in Gaylord. If you are inter-ested in becoming a foster parent or would like more infor-mation about foster care please contact LCFS at 989-732-1040 or [email protected].

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10/16

231-838-6207

COST: $40 PER MONTH(FIRST 3 FREE!)

3:30 - 4:15 PM BEGINNER

4:30 -5:30 ADVANCEDCLASS

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FENCING CLASSES


En Garde for fun atHarbor SpringsFencing ClubBy Jim Akans

Its about strategy, footwork, movement, and style.

The art of fencing is a sport with contemporary origins

dating back to the 18th century French school of fenc-

ing, influenced by the Italian school of the

Renaissance.

The sport of fencing has endured through the cen-

turies, and enthusiasts, as well as those with a curiosity

about learning this time-honored activity combining

mental and physical prowess, have an excellent

resource right here in northern Lower Michigan at the

Harbor Springs Fencing Club.

Founded by Tony Balistreri, a previously nationally

ranked sabre fencer who is now a childrens pastor at

Harbor Light Christian Church, the Harbor SpringsFencing Club has been up and running since the early

part of 2011, and open to the public since early sum-

mer.

My students at Harbor Light urged me to open a

club that would allow the community to share in

learning the art of fencing, notes Balistreri. We start-

ed it out as a trial and found there was a whole lot of

interest out there.

At this point, Harbor Springs Fencing Club focuses

on learning the use of a sabre, one of three weapons

that may be utilized in fencing: the foil, epee or sabre.

The long thin appearance of the sabre is a familiar one

to those who may have seen it utilized in such popular

movies as The Princess Bride.

Balistreri, a former nationally ranked sabre fencer, is

a valuable resource for both beginning and advanced

fencing students. He studied under highly renown

coach Waldek Czaja, placed in the top 6 in the National

Champions competition and Jr. Olympics in the mid

1990s and had several scholarship offers before decid-

ing to attend Bible College in Graceville, Florida where

he graduated with a Bachelors in Biblical Studies, and

moved to northern Lower Michigan.

Harbor Springs Fencing Club offers classes for both

beginning and advanced students on Tuesdays, with

beginning classes from 3:30 to 4:15 pm and advancedfrom 4:30 to 5:30 pm. Initially, students are offered

three free lessons and the beginning fee to join the

club is $40 per month, which include a weekly prac-

tice, training and instructions, and use of the locker

area. While some fencing gear is available, Balistreri

notes that most ongoing students prefer to secure their

own gear.

He states, We have fencing strips and an electronic

set up which aides in training for tournaments. One of

our students, Ben Ruthig, competed in the Junior

Olymics in Salt Lake City, UT this winter and three of

the older students also recently competed and placed

in the top 100 in the North American Cup Tournament.

Our plan is to start taking our younger fencers to some

of the more local tournaments to give them a taste for

competition.

It is a different, fun, and enjoyable sport, Balistreri

adds. It is often compared to physical chess in that it

uses mind, body and a sabre all at once. It is about

footwork, distance, and planning of offence and

defense. It is also quite an aerobic workout.

For

addition-

al infor-

mation,

check

out

Harbor

Springs

Fencing

Clubsfacebook

page or

call (231)

838-

6207.


Open to the public since early summer, Harbor Springs Fencing Club focuses on teaching students theart of fencing with a sabre.

Offering training for both beginning and advanced stu-dents, the Harbor Springs Fencing Club is located at

8220 Clayton Road (Harbor Light Gymnasium) in HarborSprings.

Courtesy Photo

There are numerous obstacles for struggling families in

Otsego County, and many families do not know where to

turn. Otsego County United Way is proud to announce a

new program that will help respond to this need. Michigan

Benefits Access is here to help families identify and access

services that can help improve financial stability. It is easy to

become overwhelmed in times of crisis, and the road to a

solution can be intimidating. State benefits can be a helpful

support system for families that struggle financially, because

they can help fulfill basic needs such as food, childcare, and

utilities. Once basic needs are met, families can focus on

becoming financially stable through education and employ-

ment. Allison Chaffee, our AmeriCorps Member, is serving

as a navigator to connect families with community

resources. Struggling families need help, and we strive to

help them in any way possible. The Michigan Benefits Access

Community Navigator will be stationed at the United Way

building, but will also be positioned throughout the commu-

nity to assist people at the most convenient location possi-

ble. Please contact Allison Chaffee at Allison@otsegounited-

way.org, 517-897-6428, or 989-732-8929. Allison will assist

clients by helping them navigate the Department of Human

Services (DHS) MIBridges portal and complete applications

for benefits electronically. In early 2012, DHS made it possi-

ble for everyone to apply online for all available programs.

New or current clients can view their case online. This allows

families to check the status of their case, see what documen-

tation their case worker needs and file their quarterly reviews

online. This helps those families that cant make it in to their

closest DHS office, but may pose barriers for those without

computer access or skills. United Way's Benefits Access will

help to fill in that gap. Otsego County United Way is also

seeking volunteers who would like to help families navigate

the MIBridges portal. Training will be offered to those who

would like to volunteer their time. If you would like to give

your time to help families, please contact us at

[email protected].

Michigan Benefits Access Will Help Local Families


11/16

A Touch of Class105 North Center, Gaylord

(989) 732-2654

Aveda ColorExperience the difference

ALPINE GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE

Open Mon-Sat 9am 6pm Buy Sell - Appraise

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102 W. Main, Gaylord989-705-2733

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4:30 - 5:30 ADVANCED CLASS

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FENCING CLASSES


By Dave Baragrey

As we begin a new year you can make adifference in our local economy. Make acommitment to shop at stores owned andoperated by your neighbors.

The benefits of shopping at stores ownedby locals are well documented by research.Studies done by economists show that:

When you spend $100 at a locally ownedbusiness $62 stays in our community.

When you spend $100 at a national chain$42 stays in our community.

When you spend $100 on-line $0 stays inour community.

These figures alone should convince you

of the benefit of shopping at independentlyowned local businesses but there is so muchmore. Spending at a locally owned businessleads to better schools, better roads andlocal support of community charities andfundraisers.

Studies also show that local, independent-ly owned businesses paid higher wages andused more local goods and services stretch-ing that local dollar even further.

In yet another reason for consumers toconsider shopping locally, new researchreveals that successful small businesses arehelping bolster sagging real estate markets insome communities.

That's the finding of the American Express

Open Independent Retail Index, whichfound that neighborhoods with thrivingindependent businesses saw home valuesoutperform citywide markets by 50 percentover the last 14 years.

The report specifically studied 27 neigh-borhoods where small businesses havethrived in 15 major U.S. cities, concludingthat home values there outperformed theirbroader markets.

In addition, when you shop at independ-ently owned businesses you will often deal

with the owner of the business. Their knowl-edge of the product or service and their con-cern to see you leave as a happy customer

will usually result in a very pleasant shop-

ping experience.

If consumers would simply look for the

opportunity to shift a portion of their spend-

ing from on-line businesses to locally owned

businesses it could make a difference in our

region of Northern Michigan.

Make 2012 the year you make the effort to

make a difference. Make the decision to

move 10% of your spending to independent-

ly owned businesses. The elegance of the 10percent shift right now is that it doesnt ask

people to expand their budgets and spend

more. It asks people to be more conscious

about where they spend what theyve already

budgeted for.

SupportLocal Businesses in 2012

989-732-1077208 W. Main St.

Dine In, Carry Out & Delivery!

1361 M-32 west, Gaylord

989-705-7332Featuring our Family Sampler:1 Large 16

3-topping pizza1/2 Grinder 1 order of Garlic

Cheese BreadOur pizzas are extra large

and feature generous portions

of our toppings, special

cheese blend and have a

garlic crust

We bake our bread daily, top

it with hearty portions of meat

and cheese, then oven bake it

We start with our fresh

grinder bread, then top it with

our special garlic butter &

cheese, then oven bake it

and serve it with our

homemade pizza sauce

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Open for Dinner 7 Nights a Week!!!

Enjoy the Daily Happy Hour, Incredible Dinners,the best Pizza around and much, much more.....

989-732-5552 800-743-7529

sponsored by

View Our Adoptable Pets Onlinewww.nmarn.org

-

Looking forways to getinvolved?

Call ourPAWS line!

JEFFERSON STREETNext to Zion Lutheran Church

PETOSKEY 231-347-7530

If you or your business are interested in sponsoring your favoritenon-profit organization, call our office at 989-732-8160 or e-mail us at [email protected].

We have a number of Non-Profit Groups who are waiting for a sponsor tobe a part of the 20/20 Project. Cost to sponsor aNon-Profit Group is just $25 a month.

B Kd' skC g m

d(989) 732-7780

ud b:am

D

The Friendship Shelter, Inc.We are a homeless shelter serving the Gaylord area.

In addition to providing food and shelter, a major focus ofThe Friendship Shelter's program is training and education designedto ensure continued success for our clients once they transition to

independent living.

Visit: http://www.thefriendshipshelter.org/needs.htmlTo find out how you can help

Underwritten by: Anonymous Donor

200 S. Curt Avenue, Suite 2

Pst office Bx 1154,

Gaylrd, Michigan 49734

Phone: 989.448.8828Fax: [email protected]

St Mary Cathedral School321 N. otseg, Gaylrd, MI 497 35 989-732-5801

Give online at:

http://www.gaylordstmary.

Weekly Choice - April 12, 2012

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