Weekly Voice Article - Reed City Area Public Schools
Transcription
Weekly Voice Article - Reed City Area Public Schools
voice Weekly FREE please take one www.weeklyvoice.net Thursday, February 25, 2016 • Your community news from Evart, Reed City, Hersey, Sears & Chase. GUARANTEED CREDIT APPROVAL 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix GT1 #90459A - Well Maintained 2004 Dodge Durango #60383A - Limited, 4X4, Sunroof, Third Row Seating, Assist Steps 2002 Chevy Avalanche LT #12984A - Remote Keyless Entry, Power Driver Seat, Power Windows And Locks 2006 Chevy Silverado Ext. Cab #70684B - One Owner, Trailer Hitch/ Towing, Well Maintained Call for Details 231-839-7231 CLASSIC CHEVROLET Corner of M-55 & M-66 Just South of Lake City www.classicchevyonline.com 1-800-55-4LESS 231-839-7231 Big invite Reed City football player receives invitation to all star game page 2 Reed City schools seeking $14.8 million for improvements By Andy Duffy Weekly Voice REED CITY — Reed City School District officials are hoping voters will give their approval this spring to a couple of bond proposals. Proposal One would be a zero-increase bond extension intended to raise $3.85 million. Under the terms of the proposal, property owners would continue paying their current millage rate, but they would continue paying for an additional two years on a bond set to expire in 2029. The funds raised would go to improving building safety and security, increasing energy efficiency, adding additional technology and upgrading sports facilities. Specific areas school officials say the funds would be used for include replacement of areas of the middle school roof, roof replacement on the lower level of the high school, and replacement of the high school shop roof. An air conditioning system would also be installed in the middle school tech room to protect equipment there, and funds would be used to replace the roof of the high school’s north lobby. Those improvements are expected to cost $963,000. To improve building safety, funds raised by Proposal One would pay for building secure entrances to the high school, the middle school and to G.T. Norman Elementary. The district would also upgrade the security camera systems, phone systems (including a required E-911 upgrade), add a fence to the G.T. Norman k-2 playground, fund repairs to sidewalks and replace emergency lights in the gyms. Those changes would amount to $567,575. To improve the district’s energy efficiency, proposal one would also convert the pneumatic controls in the middle school to direct digital controls, replace the north parking lot lights at the high school with LED lights, replace the high school gym lights to T8 energy efficient lights, replace wall packs light fixtures with LED lights, convert to LED exit lights, replace the gym lights at G.T. Norman elementary School with energy-efficient lighting, replace the G.T. Norman K2 gym lights with energy efficient Brothers’ offices have an under water feel page 8 Connections State’s Underground Railroad was an important connection to freedom page 5 lighting, and replace the middle school gym lights with energy efficient lighting. Also, the G.T. Normak K2 pneumatic controls would be converted to direct digital controls. The costs to improve the energy efficiency of the buildings would come to $286,800. Proposal one would raise $530,000 to upgrade computer infrastructure and for computer instructional technology. Finally, proposal one would raise $760,225 to replace the track and upgrade athletic fields, for the purchase of two used buses, to replace the middle school hallway carpet, for classroom furniture replacement at the middle school and at G.T. Norman as needed. Also on the ballot this spring for Reed City School District voters to consider will be Proposal Two. Proposal Two would involve a millage increase rather than a millage extension. The proposal would raise $5.040 million for the addition of a multi-purpose facility at the high school and $1.287 million to expand the existing gym on the west side. The multi-purpose facility would have retractable seating for 750. It would serve as both an auditorium and an auxiliary gymnasium with a stage, lighting, a sound system, a large weight room and a walking track that would be open to the community. The gym expansion would provide additional seating and practice space. District officials would relocate the baseball field and use the current field’s space for parking. Proposal Two would also provide for the building of a concession stand and restroom building that would be available for baseball and softball games. The athletic field press box would also be expanded. In addition, Proposal Two would raise $1.568 million for all of the following: • The expansion and remodeling of the band room used by middle and high school students • To remodel the media/collaboration center • To expand and improve parking lots at the middle school and high school • To remodel the high school locker rooms • To replace the carpet in middle school classrooms • To renovate the main high school restrooms and make them handicap accessible • To replace white boards at G.T. Norman • To upgrade the high school life skills kitchen • To replace blinds in the middle school Finally, proposal two would raise $830,000 for technology infrastructure upgrades and for educational technology equipment upgrades. Proposal two is expected to raise $10.950 milion. The total cost of proposals one and two would be $14.8 million. Because Proposal One is a millage extension rather than an increase, the passage of both proposals would result in a total increase of 1.7 mills. Reed City’s current millage rate is 3.9. If both proposals pass or if Proposal Two passes, the millage rate will be increased to about 5.6 mills. A 1.7 mill increase would result in a taxpayer with a home valued at $100,000 and a taxable value of $50,000 paying an additional $85 in property taxes each year. The election will be on May 3. A video and power point presentation are available on the school’s web site: www.reedcity. k12.mi.us. The district will hold an informational forum March 2 at 6 p.m. in the Porteous Academic Center at the high school regarding the proposals. Getting good interest rates takes good timing Although she has talked with district officials about the additional expenses, they continue to use the May election date. REED CITY — Schools disBluhm said that last Novemtricts may have some very good ber’s Evart and Mecosta-Osceola reasons for holding elections during May and November elec- Intermediate School District tions during off-numbered years, elections were recent examples. They were held during an oddbut the advantages come with a numbered year when nothing price attached. else was on the ballot. Pine River Public and Reed The election costs were split City Public schools will both be between the two entities. Evart’s asking the taxpayers for more portion of the costs amounted money this spring. to $11,587.33 and 1,073 people Reed City school officials will be asking their district residents turned out to vote. The cost per vote came out to about $10,80. for an additional $14,800,000 in Calculating the cost each disspending. Pine River will be trict will have to pay this May is asking for $5,835,000. Marion officials, who had a ballot $5.2 mil- a complex process, too. Bluhm will need to calculate the costs to lion proposal swatted down last each individual precinct. Then, May, came back with a re-tooled based on what school districts plan that will cost its voters are in which townships, she will $2,730,000 if passed. “expense it out to the various Just what the price will cost school districts.” them is still unknown. The Sometimes township clerks spring votes don’t come without giving a little vexation to a whole face the prospect of having a set of election on workers on hand host of election workers. for a very small number of votOsceola County Clerk Karen Bluhm said that school elections ers. Until Bluhm did some recent “are pretty much free of charge negotiating with the state elecfor schools” if the elections are tion commission, the Hartwick held in August or in November Township Clerk, Linda Jensen, during the even-numbered elecwas set to spend the entire election years. That is because election day at the township hall for tions are already on the slate, a tiny number of voters to mark and ballots are getting printed their ballot. for other issues. Hartwick Township is in a “It does get rather involved, rural area in the north-central but now the schools are paying portion of Osceola County. the entire expense for an election held in May,” Bluhm said. The borders of three school By Andy Duffy Weekly Voice Something’s fishy Andy Duffy | Weekly Voice Reed City Schools Superintendent Tim Webster goes over plans for changes to school facilities. The district is seeking funds for needed repairs and desirable improvements to its facilities. ‘It does get rather involved, but now the schools are paying the entire expense for an election held in May.’ Karen Bluhm Osceola County Clerk n districts — Pine River, Evart and Marion, spill over into the township. Jensen would have needed at least three election workers for just 24 registered voters to mark their ballot — two in the Marion district and 22 in the Pine River district. The workers would have arrived at 6:30 a.m. before the polls opened at 7. They would have remained until after the polls closed at 7. Then, after finishing up the post-election work, two people would have needed to drive results over to the county building in Reed City. The Sylvan Township Clerk, Doris Hazen, would have had her township hall open for one registered voter. The minimum number of ballots she can order is 25, so she would have known going in to election day that 24 were going to be wasted. Finally, in a victory for common sense, election commissioners told Bluhm she can consolidate voters within Sylvan and Hartwick townships, but just for the May election. Still, despite the drawbacks, school districts keep opting for those election days will little other ballot activity to hold their votes. Alex J. Bowers, an associate professor at Teachers College of Columbia University, cites voter fatigue as one reason school districts opt for elections when little else is on the ballot. When voters are faced with a long list of issues to vote on, the farther down a list of ballot proposals it, the less chance it has to pass, Bowers said. For that reason, districts will hold an election by itself when possible. Other factors are also in play, however. Often, a school district is working with its business manager and the state treasury to get the best municipal bond market rate it can. Getting good rates takes not only a lot of work but also a bit of good timing in the municipal bond market. Schools need to secure their funds so they can start construction at the time that works the best and is the least expensive given all the coordination required between architects, contractors and state regulators. “Often, to get such a complex endeavor off to a good start with the right timing for the next construction season, May in the current year is the best time,” Bowers said. 2 • weekly voice www.weeklyvoice.net | Thursday, February 25, 2016 What is it? Evart’s five-day forecast Local 5-Day Forecast Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue 2/26 2/27 2/28 2/29 3/1 32/19 46/31 45/24 32/23 35/19 Cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the upper teens. Partly cloudy. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the low 30s. Afternoon showers. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the mid 20s. Cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s. Chance of a few snow showers. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the upper teens. Sunrise: 7:23 AM Sunrise: 7:21 AM Sunrise: 7:20 AM Sunrise: 7:18 AM Sunrise: 7:16 AM Sunset: 6:25 PM Sunset: 6:26 PM Sunset: 6:27 PM Sunset: 6:29 PM Sunset: 6:30 PM Michigan at a Glance Reed City’s five-day forecast Local 5-Day Forecast Fri Sat Sun 2/26 2/27 2/28 Mon • 2/29 31/20 46/31 47/25 32/23 35/19 Cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s. More sun than clouds. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the low 30s. Afternoon showers. Highs in the upper 40s and lows in the mid 20s. Cloudy. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s. Snow showers possible. Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the upper teens. The rather petite white device shown in fingertips last week, was designed to transform your raw green beans into vertically sliced green beans. The Zipp has very sharp, firm metal blades framed in a white plastic case. For volume canning, or merely the decorative serving for the evening meal, it makes the slicing of the common vegetable into a “French green bean style” (long thin strips) a simple task. Its era is the 1960s/70s, but can still be found in many a kitchen drawer. Very few fingers get accidentally cut when using (and green beans can be notorious for rolling and Sunrise: 7:24 AM Sunrise: 7:22 AM Sunrise: 7:21 AM Sunrise: 7:19 AM Sunrise: 7:17 AM Sunset: 6:26 PM Sunset: 6:27 PM Sunset: 6:28 PM Sunset: 6:30 PM Sunset: 6:31 PM Michigan at a Glance • Grand Rapids • 33/20 Lansing 31/16 • Detroit 33/16 Area Cities presenting a bandaide-moment when the traditional cutting board and paring knife are in play). The idea is to push and then pull the bean lengthwise through the blades; rinse, return to drawer for easy storage. Reed City gridiron star selected for all star football game By Andy Duffy Weekly Voice REED CITY — Reed City high school football standout Taylor Pelton has been chosen to participate in the 2016 Michigan High School Football Coaches Association East-West AllStar Game. The game will be played at Saginaw Valley State University on June 25. Each team is made up of 44 players who were among the best high school senior players in the state. Pelton has been playing football since he was nine. He played linebacker and offensive guard on the Reed City football team. He grew up playing sports. “I guess I was a natural athlete,” he said. “Even when I was young, people would say they liked to watch me play.” Pelton participates in sports other than football. He has played soccer and is also on the Reed City basketball team. Football, however, is his favorite sport. He gives his parents credit for supporting him in his athletic pursuits. They “wanted me to do whatever I wanted to as far as sports,” Pelton said. Monty Price, his football coach, has been his biggest mentor. Price “pushes me extra hard and helps me keep my head in the game,” Pelton said. Price said that Pelton has been one of the finest competitors to go through Reed City’s football program. “His three years 3/1 Sault Sainte Marie 23/7 Do you know what the items are in the above photo? If so, contact us toll-free at 1-888-330-4144 or email us your answer, along with your name and the town where you live to news@weeklyvoice.net. The quarter is there for size reference. What WAS it? Tue City Alpena Ann Arbor Bay City Benton Harbor Big Rapids Chicago Coldwater Detroit Escanaba Flint Gladwin Grand Rapids Houghton Iron Mountain Ironwood Hi 32 34 34 36 36 37 33 35 36 35 35 35 33 36 32 Lo Cond. 29 P Cloudy 30 Snow/Wind 31 Cloudy/Wind 33 Snow/Wind 29 Cloudy 31 Snow Showers 30 Snow/Wind 31 Rn/Snw/Wind 24 M Cloudy 32 Snow/Wind 30 Cloudy/Wind 31 Cloudy/Wind 22 Cloudy 22 Cloudy 20 Cloudy City Hi Lo Cond. 59 38 Cloudy Atlanta Boston 50 50 Cloudy Chicago Cities 37 31 Snow Showers Area Dallas 62Hi41Lo Sunny City Cond. Denver 53322529 Sunny Alpena P Cloudy Houston 66344130 Sunny Ann Arbor Snow/Wind Los Angeles 83345231 Clear Bay City Cloudy/Wind City Hi Lo Cond. 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San Francisco 69 Cloudy Jackson 33 52 30PSnow/Wind Seattle 59 Kalamazoo 34 41 30Cloudy Snow/Wind Saint Louis 43 Lansing 32 33 30Snow/Wind Snow/Wind Benton Harbor 36 33 Snow/Wind Moon Phases Big Rapids 36 29 Cloudy Chicago 37 31 Snow Showers Coldwater 33 30 Snow/Wind Detroit 35 31 Rn/Snw/Wind Escanaba 36 24 M Cloudy First Full Flint 35 32 Snow/Wind GladwinFeb 15 35 30 Cloudy/Wind Feb 22 Grand Rapids 35 31 Cloudy/Wind Houghton 33 22 Cloudy UV Index 36 Iron Mountain 22 Cloudy Ironwood 32 20 Cloudy Fri Sat Mackinaw City 34 Manistee 36 Menominee 35 Michigan City 35 Midland 34 Muskegon 37 Pontiac Last 35 Port Huron 34 Mar 1 Saginaw 34 Sault Ste Marie 36 Toledo 36 Traverse City Mon 36 Sun 2/26 National Cities 2/27 2/28 National Cities 24 P Cloudy 31 Cloudy 24 Cloudy 32 Snow 31 Cloudy/Wind 32 Cloudy/Wind New 30 Snow/Wind 32 Rain/Wind Mar 9 31 Cloudy/Wind 22 Cloudy 31 Rain/Wind 30 CloudyTue 2/29 3/1 2 3 3City 2 Hi Lo Cond. 2 City Hi Lo Cond. Low Moderate Moderate Low Atlanta 59 38 Cloudy Miami 82 62 P CloudyLow Boston 50 50 Cloudy Minneapolis 35 24 Cloudy The UV Index is measured on a 0 - 11 number scale, with a Chicago 37 31 Snow Showers New York 56 053 Few Showers higher UV Index showing the need for greater skin protection. Dallas 62 41 Sunny Phoenix 79 51 Clear 11 Denver 53 25 Sunny San Francisco 69 52 P Cloudy Houston 66 41 Sunny Seattle 59 41 Cloudy Los Angeles 83 52 Clear Saint Louis 43 33 Snow/Wind ©2016 AMG | Parade Moon Phases Courtesy photo Reed City High School linebacker Taylor Pelton has been chosen to participate in the annual Michigan High School Football Coaches Association East-West All-Star Game. of play has afforded us a great deal of success. In his years on the team, we’ve gone 29-5 and have won three conference championships and a district championship. His play has garnered him every accolade, and he is very deserving. He plays with great passion and great heart,” Price said. Pelton had more than 100 tackles each of his three years on the varsity team. He was recently named the conference’s most outstanding player. Want to see your pictures in the paper? Send your photos to community@weeklyvoice.net, and watch for your photos on the community page. voice Weekly 1-888-330-4144 Your town. Your Paper. Your VOICE. When he isn’t on a sports field, Pelton enjoys hunting and fishing. He angles for panfish, but particularly likes bass fishing. He hunts deer, ducks and small game. After he graduates from high school, Pelton plans to attend Michigan Tech where he will play football and study construction management. He is looking forward to attending there because “it is out there in the middle of nowhere” and he figures it is a great place for someone with his outdoor interests. First Feb 15 Full Feb 22 Last Mar 1 New Mar 9 UV Index Fri 2/26 Sat 2/27 Sun 2/28 Mon 2/29 Tue 3/1 2 Low 3 Moderate 3 Moderate 2 Low 2 Low The UV Index is measured on a 0 - 11 number scale, with a higher UV Index showing the need for greater skin protection. 0 11 ©2016 AMG | Parade Weekly Voice February 25, 2016 • Volume 9, Issue 45 The Weekly Voice retains the publication rights to all content produced or supplied by the Weekly Voice. Use of said material without the written consent of the Weekly Voice is prohibited. Contents copyrighted; all rights reserved. 130 North Mitchell St. P.O. Box 640 Cadillac, MI, 49601-0640 The Weekly Voice is published weekly and covers Chase, Evart, Hersey and Reed City. You can also submit information online to www.weeklyvoice.net. We accept submissions of photos, articles and opinion at community@weeklyvoice. net or mailed to Weekly Voice, P.O. Box 640, Cadillac, MI., 49601. Publisher: Chris Huckle Huckle@weeklyvoice.net Editor: Matt Seward mseward@weeklyvoice.net Newsroom: 1-888-330-4144 news@weeklyvoice.net Advertising representative: Linda Ziska 231-779-4155 or 231-9209486 Classified representative: Contact us at (888) 330-4144 customerservice@ weeklyvoice.net Thursday, February 25, 2016 | www.weeklyvoice.net What’s Happening in the Area Blood drive REED CITY— A blood drive will be held on March 3 from 1 to 5:45 p.m. at Church of the Nazarene, 5300 S. 220th Avenue. To register, contact Tricia Dailey at 231-832-8476 or Patricia.Dailey@spectrumhealth.org or Tina Bogart at 231-832-7115 or Tina.Bogart@spectumhealth.org. Free chronic pain workshop Reed City library board meeting REED CITY— Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital is offering a six-week free health workshop to help community members experiencing chronic pain. The Personal Action Toward Health (PATH) Chronic Pain Workshop will be held on Wednesdays from 1 to 3:30 p.m., through March 16. The workshop is designed for patients dealing with chronic pain issues and will be held at the Reed City Depot, 200 North Chestnut Street. The program will be taught by Tina Bogart and Tricia Dailey, care coordinators for Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital. The six-week course is designed to empower patients to communicate with their health care team, take medications as prescribed and face the daily challenges of living with an ongoing health condition. Advanced registration required. Participants will receive a book and refreshments at each session. In order to achieve the full benefit, plan to attend all six workshops. REED CITY— A library board meeting will be held on Feb. 29 at 6 p.m. at the Reed City Area District Library. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. 2504 MARION— Marion Food Pantry, East Main Street, by appointment, on call 24 hours Contact Marsha at 231743-6801 TUSTIN— Augustana Lutheran Church Every Monday, 9 a.m. to noon Contact Katie at 231-7684418, or Betty at 231-8293457 REED CITY— St. Phillips Church Every Tuesday, Thursday, 1 to 4 p.m. Contact Robert at 231-8322624 Shepherd’s Table REED CITY— Church of the Nazarene, Shepherd’s Table, free meal every Thursday at 5:30 p.m., 5300 220th Avenue. Donations welcome. 11th annual 3-on-3 tournament in Reed City REED CITY— Reed City’s 11th Annual 3 on 3 Tournament — Coyote Classic — will be held on March 26. Teams for boys and girls ages 7 to 18 — four player teams at $80 ($75 if post Personal safety marked before March 7). presentation at the Deadline for registering is March 22. Registration library GFWC Women’s Club form is available at www. REED CITY— A personal EVART— Evart Women’s reedcity.k12.mi.us/athletics. safety presentation will be Club meets the second For questions, call Deheld on Feb. 25 from 6 to Tuesday of every month nise Nelson 231-388-0265 or 7:30 p.m. at the Reed City (Sept. through June). Area District Library. Contact Terese at 231-734- email at dnelson@reedcity. k12.mi.us. Learn ways to ensure 6940. your personal safety with Trooper Michael White of AARP meeting Free winter clothing the Michigan State Police. Adult program. REED CITY— AARP No. REED CITY— Free hats, 2418 meets on the second coats, mittens and boots Wednesday of every month sponsored by the Reed City Food pantries at the United Methodist Area Ministerial Association reopened on Jan. 19. A food pantry is available Church in Reed City. Potluck lunch (bring own The new location is to residents in need who the Reed City Methodist live in Osceola County. The table service) will start Church located on the corfollowing is a list of the dif- at noon followed with a ner of Lincoln Street and ferent locations, hours and program starting at 1 p.m. Everyone welcome. Church Street. Use the Lincontact people. For more information, coln Street entrance. SEARS— Former Orient Hours will be each TuesTownship Hall, next to the contact Marylou at 231-8324938. day, 1 to 4 p.m. until spring. Post Office Every Tuesday, 1 to 4 p.m. Contact Ken at 231-620- HERE’S MY CARD Keep the numbers of these locally owned businesses on hand for all of your service and shopping needs. Canvas & 231-577-8639 Coffee 109HowardStreet Tustin,Michigan Calltoschedule yoursession • GirlsNightorAfternoonOut • BirthdayParties • SeniorGroups • Parent&MePaintingTogether • SpecialNeedsChildren • Office/WorkParties $20Person (discountedpricing forlargeparties) InsideKristy’sCut &CurlSalon Your Full Service Neighborhood Pharmacy! • Prescriptions • Hallmark Cards & Gifts • Nonprescription Drugs • Health & Beauty Aids • Photo Service • Precious Moments • FAX Service Collection • TY Beanie Babies Your Authorized Webkinz Dealer! HOLIHAN DRUGS 128 N. Main, Evart, MI • 734-2551 Phil’s County Line Service “Area’s Oldest Independent Repair Facility” Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5 • Sat. 8-12 832-5498 23680 W. US-10, Reed City Jenni Lynn’s Home Services A Friendly helping hand...serving Mecosta & Osceola Counties Offering... • Transportation to appointments • Help with mail...making out bills • Med reminders • Shopping & errands • Meal prep • Personal care • Bathing • Light housework • Companionship 989-967-8315 jennilynnshomeservices@gmail.com www.jennilynnshomeservices.com ready for winter? • Tires • Brakes • Tire Rotation & Alignment • Suspension Check LOCAL - DEPENDABLE - GUARANTEED (with this ad) Tire & Auto Repair 2561 S. 90th Ave., Evart • 231-734-9849 EVERYTHING IN PINE & CEDAR • Posts & lumber • Tabletop slabs • Cedar stumps • Firewood slab bundles • CCA treated fence posts Call 231-734-3031 • 6771 40th Ave., Sears, MI 49679 Mon.-Fri. 7:30 am-5 pm, Sat. by Appt., Closed Sun. Chestnut Street Antiques Personalize your home with our eclectic selection of quality furniture, artwork, kitchenware, books, collectibles, cast iron and decorative accessories. Treat your family to the ultimate in comfort, shade and protection. • Garage Doors • Electric Openers • Windows • Auto Glass • Shower Enclosures • Mirrors • Insulated Glass Specializing in quality antiques and newer furniture. 849 S. Chestnut Street, Reed City • SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION 22826 W. US-10, Reed City (1/2 Mile West of McDonald’s) 231-832-5351 WINDOW SHOPPING? Check Out Polar Seal Vinyl Windows for Your Home! 231-832-6363 Mon.-Sat 10-5, Sun. 12-4 This Space Could Be Yours for Only $24.75/Week! Call Linda at 231-779-4155 • Energy Efficient • Maintenance Free • Easily Cleaned • FINANCING AVAILABLE • “Your Full Service Glass Shop” DouGLASS 800-922-GLAS • 231-779-3960 Located next to Arby’s • Cadillac Advertise in this directory for Only $24.75/Week! Call Linda at 231-779-4155. weekly voice • 3 Breakfast at Reed City Moose Lodge is canceled, Dinner with Friends will not take place. REED CITY— The Reed City Moose Lodge will be serving breakfast on the second Sunday of the month from 8 to 11 a.m. Same menu and all you can eat. Eggs, sausage, potatoes, pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy. All for $6 per person. Free dinner at Reed City church South Evart Quilt Club meeting EVART— The South Evart Quilt Club meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month through May 30, at the Evart Township Hall, Main Street, from 11 a.m. to 2:30-3 p.m. with a potluck lunch at noon. Everyone interested in quilting, whether beginner or pro, are welcome. For more information, contact Margie at 231-734-3857 or Ann at 231-867-3237. OLAH holding monthly meetings REED CITY— There will be a free dinner every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Church of the Firstborn Revival Center, 310 S. Higbee. Donations accepted but not necessary. Church of Firstborn serving free soup REED CITY— The Church of the Firstborn, 310 S. Higbee, is now open Wednesday’s from noon until 6 p.m. serving soups at no charge. Open to the public and all are welcome. Free community dinner SEARS— Free community dinner will be held every Saturday night at 5:45 p.m. in Brooks Corners Hall with a contemporary worship at 6:30 p.m. Invite a friend. EVART— The Osceola League for Arts and Humanities will be holding a monthly meeting on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at 207 N. Main Street, Evart, 231-7349900. Art, antiques, crafts. Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lapidary Class, Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Classes in other areas of the arts will be offered for those interested. Weight loss group meetings on Thursdays Volunteers needed for Road to Recovery Health specialty clinic REED CITY— Road to Recovery is an American Cancer Society volunteerbased program that provides transportation for cancer patients to and from their treatments. Volunteer drivers transport patients from their home to cancer treatment centers, doctor visits and other cancerrelated appointments. The American Cancer Society is working with Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital, Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center to recruit volunteer drivers and coordinators from Osceola and its surrounding counties to help drive cancer patients to and from their treatment. All volunteers’ need is a few hours during the week and a desire to make a difference. Local community members who are interested in volunteering for the Road to Recovery program should contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800227-2345. Spectrum offers diabetes support group REED CITY— Spectrum Health is offering a diabetes support group on the last Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. at the diabetes education building, 219 East Church Street. The groups are free and open to those with diabetes or those who support someone with the condition. Facilitators will lead discussions on various topics including healthy cooking, computer apps for diabetes, use of over-thecounter medications and more. To register, call 231-5924483. EVART— T.O.P.S weight loss support group meets every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. at the Evart United Methodist Church. Weigh in is from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. and meeting is at 9:30 a.m. • T.O.P.S. MI 1390 weight loss support groups meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church. Weigh in is from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and meeting is from 6:45 to 8 p.m. REED CITY— Urologist, John Anema, M.D. will be offering outpatient services at the hospital’s Specialty Clinic twice a month. He will be consulting with patients on the second Friday of the month and performing outpatient surgery and other procedures, including lithotripsy on the fourth Friday. The clinic is located at 300 N. Patterson Road. Contact Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital Specialty Clinic at 231-832-7108 for more information. Fibromyalgia support group meeting BIG RAPIDS— Support group for people with Fibromyalgia will be meeting the first and third Saturday’s at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, located at 1004 N. McEwan. McEwan. Discussion topics are based on the needs of members of the group. Suggestions are always welcomed. For more information, contact Lori at 989-386-6113. Activities at the Osceola Senior Center REED CITY— The Senior Center, 219 E. Todd Street, has activities happening four afternoons during the week. On Mondays and Thursdays, euchre is played from 1 to 3 p.m.; on Tuesdays, bingo is played from 12:30 to 3 p.m.; and on Fridays, pedro is played from 1 to 3 p.m. The center is open for young and old to come and enjoy an afternoon of fun and enjoyment. For further information, contact Carolyn at 231-8322676 or Bonnie at 231-8321136. Dinner with friends at St. Paul Lutheran Church Free movie nights EVART— Dinner with Friends Community Meal will be held on the second Wednesday of each month from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 435 W. 5th Street. Sponsored by St. Paul Lutheran Church and the Evart United Methodist Church. Donations appreciated. Take out available. For more information, contact 231-734-3585 or 231734-5491. In the event that school SEARS— Free movie nights will be held the second Friday night of the month at 7 p.m. at Brooks Corner Hall, US 66 and 10. Free popcorn and hot dogs. Day book club at Reed City Library REED CITY— A day book club will be held on the first Wednesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Reed City Public Library. 4 • weekly voice www.weeklyvoice.net | Thursday, February 25, 2016 Obituaries Diabetes PATH Class coming up Margaret M. Leemon Both a former Miss Allen Park (1952) and the AFL-CIO’s Miss Labor Day (1959), she was born to Hungarian immigrant parents (Albert and Julia Szakacs). Despite not learning to speak English until being immersed in West Virginia schools, Margaret after attending Elmhurst College in Illinois, ultimately taught Michigan students from college-level to kindergarten (Detroit to Manton), without a trace of an accent while retaining her bilingual skills. Her career path then diverged proving her to be a self-motivated, highly respected sales and marketing manager living in Plymouth, Saginaw and retiring on the west coast of the United States. She and husband Peter (1935-2010) upon moving back to Osceola County after 30 years in San Francisco, took seriously their stewardship of the Evart landmark Victorian: the Old Davy House. Margaret hosted innumerable gatherings of local organizations, friends, neighbors and new acquaintances, often reaching for seemingly silly excuses (“a late January Say-GoodbyeTo-The-Christmas-Tree party,” or a front yard “Tea Tasting party” which mimicked the rituals and decorum of a California wine tasting), simply to reintroduce folks to the home’s historic charms. All was done with a warmth of character and the finesse of social skills that reminded us all that life is worth living with good humor, integrity and purpose. Margaret was a downstate “city girl” who transitioned into being a “country wife” moving to Marion in the 1960s where they began organic gardening and raising the rare white Charolaise beef cattle, the “Leemon Cattle Company.” Eventually they added goats. Proudly identifying herself as “Mrs. Peter Leemon” (in keeping with traditional rules of etiquette), it in no way precluded her from shining with her own achievements. In that newlywed era she began her lifelong commitment to cooking and baking only from scratch; embracing the rural love of walks in the woods and the hunting of wild strawberries while raising their only daughter with a keen eye to education and to community responsibility. Those who shared time with Margaret came to appreciate her love of history and her strong sense of ethnic pride in her Hungarian roots. She had a natural persona as “teacher” in many facets of everyday life. She did watercolors, relished museums, became a gourmet cook (leaving in excess literally 1,000 cookbooks on her Evart shelves), became proud “parent” to dog Rufus; delighted in the character, health-consciousness and spirituality of recent arrival son-inlaw Michael (Bieri) and her “instant” five great grandchildren and two grandsons (John and William) — for whom she was on-the-move attending their party days before her attack. Back in the day, the Detroit Talent Directory simultaneously listed Margaret, Bill Bixby and Soupy Sales in its roster of Actors/Announcers. She was a former guide at Greenfield Village; one of the early “petite models” in fashion; a dance performer; frequent community theatre headliner in both Plymouth and Cadillac. She underwrote the full expense of launching Evart’s fundraising Historical Calendar into the “color printing era;” belonged to Eastern Star, the Evart GFWC Women’s Club (since the 1960s), MSU Farm Extension, the Triple-I society of San Francisco, the Moose, Red Hats, The Commonwealth Club of San Francisco, the English Speaking Union, and both the Cadillac and Evart Historical Societies. She was the eldest sister to siblings Olga Westen (California) and Irene Harris (Georgia), and while their father died some time ago, she was only recently preceded in death by their Mother who reached the century milestone. Margaret herself was two months shy of her 81st birthday, dying February 14. Margaret insisted that her obituary highlight how deeply honored and humbled she was to be the parent of their adult daughter, Seraphim, when, as an elected official, Seraphim stood up to City Hall and to the City Attorney — and “undauntedly counter-demanded that residents were indeed entitled to their stateguaranteed rights irrespective of apparently long-standing local power plays.” Margaret’s health had been failing but never her spirit. Defiantly she insisted on two versus three days of weekly dialysis and her good numbers repeatedly proved her decision meritorious. Her life ended with a brain bleed and thankfully her ability to remain in her home was not compromised as she faded within 48 hours. Among her Evart-favorites were “her boys” — young neighbors Dylan and Dominic, be it for their tomato worm races on her front porch table or the borrowing of books from the Leemon collection, and most definitely for their aide in helping Mr. and Mrs. Leemon find the dozens of Easter eggs left in the yard by the Bunny. Her Caretakers of the past year were standouts, with longtime friend Donnie Sue and young Virginia playing unforgettable roles. Both Margaret and Peter were deeply touched to have been so warmly welcomed back to their old stomping grounds. Glenn E. Falin, Sr. GLADWIN— Glenn E. Falin, Sr., of Gladwin, passed away Saturday, February 20, 2016, at his home. He was 76. He was born January 24, 1940, in West Virginia, to Sher man and Laura (Perry) Falin, and attended school in West Virginia. Glenn had lived in Brighton, where he worked as a die setter, and moved to Gladwin in 2000. He attended the Nazarene Church, and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He is survived by his children: Connie (Curt) McDermott of Hersey, Rebecca (Michael) Heller of Big Rapids, Glen (Gail) Falin, Jr., and Al Runyon, both of Reed City; one brother, Don Falin of Brighton; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Debra Brauer; three brothers: Gary, Roger, and Robert Falin; and one great-granddaugh- ter. Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at M c D owe l l F u n e r a l Home with Rev. Chris DeMott of ficiating. Burial in Chase Township Cemetery. Visitation was on Wednesday. Memorials may be made to either the Kidney or Diabetes associations. Please share a memory or sign the guestbook for Glenn at mcdowellfh.com. Stories about people you know! They’re in the Weekly Voice. Read about people, places, & events in your town. Your community news from Evart, Reed City, Hersey, Sears & Chase. voice Weekly Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice. Free every Thursday www.weeklyvoice.net EVART — The Osceola County Commission on Aging and the Michigan State University Extension will be offering a Diabetes PATH workshop in Evart at the Commission on Aging meal site. Workshop participants will meet one day a week for six weeks. The workshop will begin March 29. There is no cost to participate. The acronym PATH stands for Port Authority Trans-Hudson. Stanford University personnel created the PATH workshops and they say evidence supports the effectiveness of the program. The Diabetes PATH workshop is for adults with type 2 diabetes. It is open to family, friends, caregivers and anyone wishing to learn more about managing diabetes. The workshop will be help those with diabetes to better manage the condition and will assist them in better protecting their health. Par- STUDENT ATHLETE ticipants will learn ways to deal with the symptoms of diabetes, understand emotions, develop healthy eating habits and talk with health care providers about diabetes. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The class will meet Mondays, March 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26 and May 3 from 1 to 3:30 pm. For more information or to reserve a space, call the Osceola County Commission on Aging at 231-7345559. of the Week Meet: Hanna Price Senior at Reed City High School Sport: Basketball Position: Point guard Parent’s names: Tara and Monty Price What is your proudest moment in sports and why? Qualifying and competing in four events for the state track meet last year Who is your personal hero? My parents, because they have set great examples for me and push me to be the best I can be in all areas of life. Who is your favorite professional athlete? Serena Williams, because she is such a dominant female in tennis. What are your pre-game rituals? I usually try to focus as much as possible and listen to music. What is your favorite hobby? Hanging out with my family and friends What are your future plans? Plastic or paper engineering at either Ferris or Western Michigan, and I will also be running track. ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY: Reed City • 231-832-4362 • www.CRossRoads-Chevy.Com CheCK Us oUt oN FaCeBooK! OSCEOLA COUNTY NOTICE OF PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2016 TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF OSCEOLA COUNTY: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, THAT A PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN THE FOLLOWING RESPECTIVE CITIES AND TOWNSHIPS, COUNTY OF OSCEOLA, STATE OF MICHIGAN ON TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2016. VOTER INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE DISPLAYED IN THE POLLS. TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS TO OBTAIN INSTRUCTIONS IN AN ALTERNATIVE FORMAT AND/OR TO OBTAIN AN ABSENT VOTER BALLOT, CONTACT THE CLERK IN ADVANCE OF THE ELECTION. THE POLLS WILL BE OPEN FROM 7 O’CLOCK A.M. UNTIL 8 O’CLOCK P.M. AT THE POLLING PLACES LISTED BELOW: POLLING LOCATIONS/CLERK CONTACTS: Burdell Township -310 S. Neilson St.., Tustin, MI 49688 -- Laura Peterson, Clerk: 231-829-4049 Cedar Township - 9115 170th Avenue, Reed City, MI 49677 -- Shirley Apsey, Clerk: 231-832-4929 Evart Township - 327 S. Main Street., Evart, MI 49631 -- Mary Holcomb, Clerk: 231-734-5158 Hartwick Township - 9042 15 Mile, Evart, MI 49631 -- Linda Jensen, Clerk: 231-734-3465 Hersey Township - 108 S. Main Street, Hersey, MI 49639 -- Laane Hocquard, Clerk: 231-832-4575 Highland Township - 21009 110th Avenue, Marion, MI 49665 -- Kathy Barnhart, Clerk: 231-468-1231 LeRoy Township - 101 S. Bevins, LeRoy, MI 49655 -- Stacie Dvonch, Clerk: 231-768-5432 Lincoln Township - 20920 9 Mile Road, Reed City, MI 49677 -- Sherry Blackrick, Clerk: 231-388-4974 Marion Township - 204 E. Main Street, Marion, MI 49665 -- Connie Zuiderveen, Clerk: 231-388-0874 Middle Branch Township - 2963 15 Mile Road, Marion, MI 49665 -- Martha West, Clerk: 231-743-2991 Orient Township - 2972 30th Avenue, Sears, MI 49679 -- Patricia Tiedt, Clerk: 231-734-3445 Osceola Township - 8995 95th Avenue, Evart, MI 49631 -- Melanie Wirth, Clerk: 231-734-5908 Richmond Township - 4575 Park Street, Reed City, MI 49677 -- Linda Stieg, Clerk: 231-832-2880 Rose Lake Township - 15953 W. 16 Mile Road, LeRoy, MI 49655 -- Kevin Draper, Clerk: 231-768-4441 Sherman Township - 14929 21 Mile Road; Tustin, MI 49688-- Bethany Bolduc, Clerk: 231-829-3707 Sylvan Township - 4866 Sylvan Road, Evart, MI 49631 -- Doris Hazen, Clerk: 231-734-3150 City of Evart Clerk, 200 S. Main St., Evart, MI 49631 -- Heather Pattee, Clerk: 231-734-2181 City of Reed City Clerk, 227 E. Lincoln Ave., Reed City, MI 49677 -- Jackie Beam, Clerk: 231-832-2245 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING THE FOLLOWING FOR PARTISAN OFFICE: President of the United States ALSO FOR THE FOLLOWING BALLOT PROPOSALS: Evart Township-Road Millage Renewal Osceola Township-Road Millage School Proposals: Chippewa Hills School District/ OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL This proposal will allow the school district to continue to levy the statutory rate of not to exceed 18 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, required for the school district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance and renews millage that will expire with the 2016 tax levy. Shall the currently authorized millage rate limitation of 18.6648 mills ($18.6648 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, in Chippewa Hills School District, Mecosta, Isabella and Osceola Counties, Michigan, be renewed for a period of 3 years, 2017, 2018 and 2019, to provide funds for operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2017 is approximately $5,994,376 (this is a renewal of millage that will expire with the 2016 tax levy)? Karen Bluhm, Osceola County Clerk Thursday, February 25, 2016 | www.weeklyvoice.net Passage to freedom: Michigan’s role in the Underground Railroad Sudoku Puzzle #3916-M 2 3 1 4 2 5 6 7 8 6 2 5 8 1 2 7 1 9 9 3 4 7 1 3 2 7 1 9 6 9 5 3 © 2009 Hometown Content By Shanna Avery Special to the Weekly Voice The movement to abolish slavery carried strong sentiment and action in Michigan well before statehood in 1836. Although the emancipation of slaves authorized by President Lincoln came three decades later, concerned individuals took matters into their own hands to bring liberation to slaves despite the threat of heavy fines, imprisonment, and possibly physical harm. People banded together to lead slaves on an exodus to the Promise Land of freedom. The passage on the underground railroad, a system made of homes and businesses (stations or depots) and the people who helped slaves go from one station to the next (conductors or stationmasters) helped slaves reach their destination of Canada, where slavery was outlawed and they could not be legally retrieved, or other points northward if they chose to stay in the United States. John Cross, a Quaker from Indiana, developed the route across Michigan and helped organize conductors and stations. Each Medium Sudoku Puzzle #3916-D 2 1 3 4 1 5 6 7 1 5 1 7 1 3 8 4 4 9 6 4 7 3 2 5 1 9 8 6 © 2009 Hometown Content weekly voice • 5 Difficult "Cool Puzzle" Across 1 Whack 5 "Sounds good to me!" 9 Displayed audacity 14 Neet rival 15 Rosencrantz or Guildenstern 16 Antipasto morsel 17 Alan of "Jake's Women" 18 ___ sandwich 19 Antiquated 20 "If looks could kill" look 23 Monopolize 24 Hitchcock classic 28 Checks out 31 Clash 33 This woman 34 Muslim honorific 35 In reserve 36 Parseghian of Notre Dame 37 Not a warm welcome 41 Thrash 42 Exudes 43 "What ___?" 44 Put to work 45 Whiff 46 Parenting challenges 47 Bowler's X 49 Guy 50 Brush-off 57 "Happy Birthday ___!" 60 Police action 61 Certain something 62 Don't exist 63 Not being used 64 Casing 65 Not Astroturf 66 Round sound 67 Eat like a bird 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 29 24 31 30 32 38 41 42 44 45 47 26 27 55 56 43 46 49 51 52 53 54 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 59 Down 1 Unexpected difficulty 2 Stopping point 3 Slave girl of opera 4 Of the windpipe 5 Convention label 6 Handle roughly 7 London's ___ of Court 8 Straight 9 Threshold 10 Back street 11 Disencumber 12 Second person 13 Hideout 21 One of the Cyclades 25 40 48 58 13 36 39 50 57 12 33 35 34 37 11 22 23 28 10 22 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 35 38 39 40 Lickety-split ___ longue Horse, so to speak Praying figures. Sticker Shocked Black eye Curl one's lip Snaps Soup pasta Sentinels Alpine song Haberdashery accessory 46 Letter from Greece 48 Desktop pictures 49 Runway walker 51 Small amount 52 "The Sweetest Taboo" singer 53 Rise 54 Coach K's school 55 Rocker Clapton 56 Colonel or captain 57 Telephone ___ 58 Famous Bruin 59 Indeed OSCEOLA COUNTY NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2016 TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF OSCEOLA COUNTY: The Public Accuracy Testing for the upcoming March 8, 2016 election shall be held in the following jurisdictions at the date, time and locations listed below: Burdell Township: 310 S. Nielson St., Tustin Cedar Township: 9115 -170th Avenue, Reed City Evart Township: 327 S. Main Street, Evart Evart City: 200 S. Main Street, Evart Hartwick Township: 9042 15 Mile, Evart Hersey Township: 108 S. Main Street, Hersey Highland Township: 21009 110th Ave., Marion LeRoy Township: 101 S. Bevins, LeRoy, MI 49655 Lincoln Township: 20920-9 Mile Rd., Reed City Marion Township: 204 E. Main St., Marion Middle Branch Township: 2963 15 Mile Rd., Marion Orient Township: 2972-30th Avenue, Sears Osceola Township: 8995-95th Avenue, Evart Richmond Township: 4575 Park Street, Reed City Reed City: 523 S. Morse St., Reed City Rose Lake Township: 15953 W. 16 Mile-LeRoy Sherman Township: 14828 21 Mile-Tustin Sylvan Township: 4866 Sylvan Road, Evart March 3, 2016 @ 9:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 10:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 6:00 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 2:00 p.m. February 29, 2016 @ 7:00 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 10:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 10:00 a.m. March 1, 2016 @ 5:30 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 6:00 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 7:00 p.m. March 1, 2016 @ 6:00 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 2:00 p.m. March 3, 2016 @ 9:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 1:00 p.m. February 23, 2016 @ 9:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 6:00 p.m. March 2, 2016 @ 10:00 a.m. March 3, 2016 @ 2:00 p.m. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to determine that the program and equipment being used to tabulate the results of the election, counts the votes in the manner prescribed by law. Karen Bluhm, Osceola County Clerk station was a night’s walking distance, strategically placed about 14 to 16 miles apart. This also allowed for horse-led wagons carrying slaves to make a round trip in reasonable time. A large Quaker presence in southern Michigan helped drive the success of a great number of slaves who found freedom on the underground railroad. Quakers, a Christian sect, were fervent abolitionists and activists. There are seven known paths that led slaves to Canada, and between the 1820s to 1865 an estimated 200 stops existed in Michigan. Battle Creek was a junction with both routes that came out of Indiana. The slaves who crossed the Ohio River near Cincinnati went through Quaker settlements in eastern Indiana through Fort Wayne to Battle Creek, where they traveled eastbound over the route of the Michigan Central Railroad to Detroit. Another route from Battle Creek jogged northeast through Lansing to Flint on to Port Huron where the St. Clair River crossed to Canada. One of the heaviest traveled routes for slaves coming up from Illinois and Indiana, known as the Quaker Line, entered into Michigan at Cass County; the first stop being Young’s Prairie near Cassopolis. The route continued to Schoolcraft to Battle Creek, continuing eastward where Canada was reached at the Detroit River crossing. Cass County abolitionists encouraged slaves to remain if they chose to stay. Abolitionist Stephen Bogue helped establish a community for these slaves. This settlement was named Ramptown, named for the wild leeks (also called ramp) that flourished in the area. A school and church were among the infrastructures of this community. A number of descendants of former slaves still remain in Cass County where their ancestors were made welcome. On the Quaker Road route, Zachariah Shugart, a Quaker stationed at Young’s Prairie in Cass County, transported the fugitive slaves to the Dr. Nathan Thomas House in Schoolcraft. Dr. Nathan Thomas, a Quaker and the first physician in Kalamazoo County, was one of the most active conductors in Michigan. Between 1840 he and his wife Pamela helped between 1,000 to 1,5000 slaves find temporary refuge at their home in Schoolcraft. He transported these slaves to fellow Quaker, Erastus Hussey and his wife Sarah, in Battle Creek. Erastus Hussey is also a name greatly regarded in the Michigan abolitionist movement. He founded an anti-slavery newspaper called the Liberty Press Sell your stuff in voices Classified for as little as $8.75!* Ad deAdline: Friday at 5PM everydAy SPeCiAlS Freebies - FREE EVERY WEEK Lost/Found - FREE EVERY WEEK Call 888-330-4144 for details on placing a classified ad. *some restrictions do apply. voice Weekly Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice. Photo courtesy of Shanna Avery Erastus Hussy, a noted conductor on the underground railroad. and also had great political baring in pushing through state legislation to counteract the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 made it illegal to help run away slaves. It ensured slaves could be recaptured and returned to their owners. Harriett Beecher Stowe’s famed novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” was written in protest of this law. Erastus Hussey found his own way to combat this law. In 1854 he won a seat in the Michigan senate as a Free Soil party candidate. In 1855 he drafted the Michigan Personal Freedom Act, which guaranteed slaves the writ of Habeas Corpus and trial by jury, and prohibited any jails from holding slaves. This cleverly drafted legislation made any attempt to help slave catchers put fugitive slaves back into bondage a crime, punishable by a $500 to $1,000 fine and up to five years in the state prison. There are some well documented confrontations in the Michigan Underground railroad. Adam Crosswhite and his family, former slaves, settled near Marshall. He told his neighbors should slave catchers come, he would signal with a shot from his gun. One morning in 1847 neighbors came running to his house after hearing the signal. Four men from Kentucky were there to recapture the Crosswhites. A group of about 100 neighbors gathered at the house and stalled the Kentuckians while the family escaped by train to Detroit and then fled to Canada. The people of Marhsall were taken to court and ended up paying money to the slave owners, but they were gratified to know the Crosswhites were safe. In 1847 the Kentucky Raid went down in Cass County. Two men from Cass County periodically would travel to Bourbon County, Kentucky to bring slaves back. Kentucky planters plotted together to retrieve their slaves that were said to by living among the Quakers of Cass County. In August, 1847, 13 Kentucky slave catchers traveled to Cass County and captured a number of slaves. They were resisted by a group of up 300, and being outnumbered, the Kentuckians agreed to go to trial at Cassopolis. They had to reSudoku Solution #3916-M 4 6 1 9 7 2 6 8 5 3 3 1 2 8 7 4 9 5 1 4 5 8 2 9 9 2 6 7 5 3 8 3 7 1 4 6 5 9 3 6 8 4 1 7 2 2 7 8 3 1 5 9 4 6 3 1 9 4 6 7 2 5 8 6 5 4 2 3 8 7 9 1 7 8 2 5 9 1 4 6 3 2 5 4 1 9 3 7 8 6 3 7 9 8 4 6 5 1 2 6 8 1 2 7 5 3 9 4 © 2009 Hometown Content Sudoku Solution #3916-D 8 9 2 5 3 1 2 6 9 4 4 3 7 6 1 5 8 7 7 3 5 9 6 8 9 4 8 7 1 2 © 2009 Hometown Content 1 2 6 3 5 4 4 1 3 6 2 7 8 5 9 5 6 7 4 8 9 1 2 3 turn without their slaves, but later sued the men who took them to court. By 1855 the case was dismissed and the Kentuckians were none the richer. Detroit was considered one of the most important stops on the Underground Railroad, being the last stop before freedom. Michigan’s first African American Church, the 2nd Baptist Church, in Detroit near the Canadian border, was founded in 1836 by 13 former slaves. Sojourner Truth, John Brown, and Frederick Douglas, were some of the famous names to have connections with the church. The church housed more than 5,000 fugitives in the span of about 30 years. Seymour Finney, of Detroit, was another shining name of the Underground Railroad. He owned the Finney Hotel, and a block away he built a horse stable, on the northeast corner of State and Griswold streets, where many slaves were hid. He would listen to the woes of the slave catchers who frequented his hotel while the slaves they sought were safely in Finney’s keep. Women also played a big role in Michigan’s Underground Railroad. Laura Smith Haviland of a rural community, Quaker Valley, was an organizer of the first Abolition Society in Michigan. She was so well known in the cause that southern slave supporters offered a $3,000 award for Laura dead or alive. Laura is quoted, “I would not for my right hand become instrumental in returning one escaped slave to bondage. I firmly believe in our Declaration of Independence, that all men are created free and equal, and that no human being has a right to make merchandise of others born in humbler stations, and place them on a level with horses, cattle, and sheep, knocking them off the auction-block to the highest bidder, sundering family ties, and outraging the purest and tenderest feelings of human nature.” A Quakeress poet, Elizabeth Margaret Chandler, of Tecumseh, Lenawee, Michigan, was also a voice to end the injustice of slavery, becoming the first female writer in America to make abolition her theme. She died just short of her 27th birthday, of remittant fever. John T. Batchelder, who settled in Yates Township, Lake County, and still has a number of descendants in eastern Lake County, grew up in a home that was a station on the underground railroad. His father, Benjamin, assisted slaves to freedom in Montville in northeastern Ohio. It is written in family memiors, “Benjamin Batchelder’s home was one station on the underground railroad during the Civil War. One time bloodhounds tracked a slave to his carriage house. They did not get the slave for he had been taken during the night before to the next station. He helped a number of slaves from the south across the line into Canada and freedom.” Michigan’s early settlement and statehood, no doubt, was an exciting one that would make any Michigander proud; filled with heroism in helping great numbers of individuals and families on their passage to freedom. S N A G W A L L A I D A T R A C H C A S E A G H A C H I L T A N U S E S T R I C T O Y O A R E N G R A S I D T I A O G S L O O K O U T S Y O D E L M A U L I N N S O R Z O S N E E R D R I B S A D E N E A T A P P A I C C E S H I L L M O D E L D O O R S T E P A L L E Y R E D I V E D E N C H A T I I S T E E A C U L D A U S K P E H E R O I N O R A N T S E R I C R A N K 6 • weekly voice www.weeklyvoice.net | Thursday, February 25, 2016 Prospective homebuyers may find hope in these programs save for home ownership, education or a business. For home those saving to buy a home, savings are REED CITY — Several matched on a three to one programs are available to those hoping to buy a home basis. (check stylebook) Besides saving for a someday, according to Dan home, participants can alMassy, Osceola County’s so receive financial educacommunity development tion and home ownership director. and preparation informaOf interest to some will tion and assistance. be the Financial ManageSome program requirement and Homebuyer Eduments exist. For additional cation Program. The Mid Michigan Com- information, go to the Michigan IDA Partnership munity Action Agency sponsors the program. The website, www.michiganida.com. program offers financial The Michigan State management and credit Housing Development Aucounseling, homebuyer thority sponsors a couple education, down payment of closely related home assistance and online ownership programs. They homebuyer education. are MI first Home and MI For more information Next Home. about the Financial ManThe MI First Home loan agement and Homebuyer program is a type of mortEducation Program, congage available to first-time tact the Mid Michigan homebuyers — ones who Community Action Agenhaven’t owned a home in cy at its Osceola County Outreach office. The office the previous three years is located at 240 E. Church — and to others who live in a targeted area such as St. The phone number Osceola County. The MI there is 231-791-7078. Next Home is designed for Those trying to save more a home might want to those who may already open an IDA or an Individ- own a home. Household ual Development Account. income limits do exist. The two programs can An IDA is a matched savoffer down payment asings account designed to sistance up to $7,500. Also, help low-income families By Andy Duffy Weekly Voice there are minimum credit scores involved. For more information, go to the homebuyer section of the state of the MSHDA website, www.michigan.gov/ mshda. The Mortgage Credit Certificate Program is another option for those searching for housing assistance. Under the terms of this program, first-time and repeat homebuyers in targeted areas such as Osceola County receive a federal tax credit. Qualified homebuyers are able to deduct a portion of the interest they paid on their home mortgage from their tax liability. Homebuyers can take the deduction every year for up to 30 years. Household income limits affect a person’s eligibility, and the program has a maximum sales price limit of $224,500. For more information on this program, go to the homebuyer section of the MSHDA website, Michigan.gov/mshda, or contact a mortgage credit certificate lender. Prospective homebuyers may also be interested in the USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program. The program works by assisting approved lenders in offering low- and moderate-income households the opplrtunity to buy a primary residence. Through the program, lenders can obtain a 90 percent loan note guarantee to lenders to reduce the lenders’ risk of offering 100 percent loans to eligible, rural homebuyers. To qualify, buyers must meet the following conditions. They must: • Meet income eligibility. • Agree to personally occupy the dwelling as their primary residence. • Be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. non-citizen national or a qualified alien. • Have legal capacity to incur the loan obligation. • Have not been suspended or debarred from participating in federal programs. • Demonstrate a willingness to make timely payments. • Purchase a property that meets all program criteria. Those wanting additional information about the program may visit the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program section of the USDA Ru- ral Development website, rd.usda.gov/programsservices/single-familyhousing-guaranteed-loanprogram. Alternatively, they may contact their local lender. The USDA also administers the Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans Program. The program gives assistance to low- and very low-income applicants in purchasing housing in eligible rural areas. To do that, the program provides payment assistance to increase the applicant’s repayment ability. The payment assistance temporarily reduces the amount of the mortgage payment. To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions. They must: • Be without “decent, safe and sanitary” housing. • Be unable to obtain a loan elsewhere on terms and conditions that they can reasonably be expected to meet. • Agree to occupy the property as their primary residence. • Meet citizenship or eligible non citizen requirements • Have legal capacity to incur a loan obligation • Not be suspended or debarred from participation in federal programs. Only certain properties can be financed with Direct Home Loan funds. The home must generally: • Be less than 1,800 square feet. • Not have a market value of more than the applicable area loan limit. • Not have in-ground swimming pools. • Not be designed for income-producing activities. Those interested in learning more about the program may go to the Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans Program section of the USDA Rural Development website, rd.usda.gov/ programs-services/singlefamily-housing-directhome-loans. Those wishing to apply should contact the USDA Traverse City office before filling out any forms or applications. The office is located at 1501 S. Cass Street, Ste.A, Traverse City. The phone number is 231941-0951, ext. 4. The Osceola County Community Development Office can be contacted at 231-832-7397. Its website is at www.osceola-county.org. been out for a run. Officer observed their attire reflected that. •Officers observed a 58-year-old male drive through a stop sign nearly hitting his patrol car. The 58-year-old driver was issued a citation for disobeying a stop sign and for Operating under the Influence of Liquor. He was transported and lodged in the Osceola County Jail without incident. 2/19/16 •The School Liaison Officer investigated and reported on the truancy of five students. Juvenile petition request has been submitted for truancy on them. •Of ficers were dispatched to local apartment complex regarding a disorderly 36-year-old male. The male was lodged on charges of Disorderly Conduct at the Osceola County Jail without incident. 2/20/16 •Of ficers were dispatched to local residence regarding a suicide attempt by overdose. The individual was conscious and able to speak. Officer stayed there until the arrival of the EMS. •While on patrol, officers observed a vehicle in the driveway with the interior lights on and driver door standing open. Officers spoke with the owner, who stated nothing was missing, and believed he may have left is door open by mistake. 2/21/16 •Of ficers were dispatched to Spectrum Health Hospital Reed City campus regarding the location of an adult foster care patient. The 31-year-old male had been transported there by ambulance earlier and once treated and discharged he had walked away. Officers located and transported the man back to his home at the adult foster care home. •Officers were dispatched to local residence regarding an out of control juvenile. Upon their arriver, officer found the juvenile sitting in a hallway crying. Mother said had been no physical assaults. Officers were able to speak with, and counseled the juvenile at that time. Public record Evart Police Department weekly report 2/16/16 •Stolen License Plate — Officers responded to a complaint of a stolen license plate. The plate was reported to Secretary of State as stolen and the investigation remains open. 2/16/16 •Domestic Assault — Officers responded to a domestic assault. The complaint was investigated and the subject was arrested. The complaint has been turned over to the prosecuting attorney. 2/20/16 •Failure to Pay — Officers responded to a fail to pay complaint at a local business. The case is under investigation at this time. 2/20/16 •Check Well Being — Officers were dispatched to a Check Well Being – Contact was made with the subject who was found to be in no danger. 2/20/16 •Bond Violation — Officers took a complaint regarding a violation of a person’s bond condition. The case is being investigated and has been turned over to the prosecuting attorney. 2/20/16 •Breaking and Entering — Officers responded to a breaking and entering complaint. The scene was investigated and the case remains open. 2/21/16 •Civil Complaint — Officers responded to a civil complaint. The subjects were advised to resolve their differences peacefully. Reed City Police Department, weekly report 2/15/16 •School Liaison Officer was requested to perform a well being check on a two students. Officer reported back to Child Protective Services both were fine. •Officers came upon a vehicle driving on the White Pine Trails. The 25-year-old male driver from another town stated he thought it was an ally. The officer issued a verbal warning. Case closed. •Officers performed a traffic stop to issue a warning to the operator of a forklift for driving with the forks in a prohibited manner. Michigan law prohibits vehicles with forks or tines to traveling with the forks parallel to the roadway. •While performing a traffic stop for tinted windows, officers found the 30-yearold male driver had given false identification information. Further investigation resulted in discovering he had a suspended driver’s license with three prior convictions for DWLS, in addition to three outstanding warrants. The individual was arrested and lodged in the Osceola County Jail without incident. •Of ficers were dispatched to take a report regarding a Child Protective Service’s referral of possible child abuse. The matter is under a joint investigation with CPS. 2/16/16 •Offices issued citations to a 30-year-old female for expired plate and no insurance. Her vehicle was towed pending insurance coverage. 2/17/16 •School Liaison Officers assisted with a truancy matter. The student was transported to school to attend the remainder of the day. 2/18/16 •Officers were dispatched to local apartment complex regarding a tenant who was upset and there were concerns of a possible suicide attempt. Officers spoke with the man in questioned and found he appeared to be intoxicated and upset but stated he did not need medical attention and was not suicidal. •Officer served vehicle abatement papers to a tenant who owned the uninsured vehicle with an expired registration, parked in the apartment complex parking lot for over two weeks. •Officers stopped and questioned a couple of young men behind a building in the cemetery. The two explained they had Want to see your pictures in the paper? Send your photos to community@weeklyvoice.net, and watch for your photos on the community page. Please include your name, address, email, and phone number, plus information about the photo. * All pictures subject to editor’s discretion. Not all pictures may be published. Pictures will not be returned. Your town. Your Paper. Your VOICE. voice Weekly 1-888-330-4144 Thursday, February 25, 2016 | www.weeklyvoice.net weekly voice • 7 voice classifieds WEEKLY DEADLINES: 5:00 PM ON FRIDAY LINES 10 Lines Addl. Lines LINES 8 Lines Addl. Lines VOICE ONLY $8.75 $2.75 EVERYDAY SPECIALS COMBO * $12.90 $2.75 LINES 10 Lines Addl. 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Additional publications of FREE ads available for only $5.80 per ad. Ads will appear in order from Newest to Oldest item. Restrictions: Only one item per ad. No pets, services or commercial merchandise. Ads must publish in the merchandise Under $300 category. Ads must be placed online only at www.weeklyvoice.net. Free Ads may take up to 3 days to process for publication. ANNOUNCEMENT Autos For Sale 201 Trucks 202 Trucks 202 SUV’S 203 MERCHANDISE Announcements 104 Calling all rock hounds for Lapidary Classes, equipment at location. Booth available for crafters & antique dealers. Open April 1st. Call (231)734-9900 or (231)2501066. AUTOMOTIVE Autos For Sale 201 2007 Chrysler Sebring Touring, ultra low miles! Local trade, clean carfax, power, remote start. Won't last long! Priced to sell at $8,451. That's only $174/mo with $0 down for 60/mos. @ 4.99% APR* on approved credit. Call Ethan with Classic Chevy @ (231)429-5162. Horses & Supplies 511 2012 DODGE CHARGER, ALL WHEEL DRIVE this is a 1-OWNER and LOCALLY OWNED TRADE that is SHARP!! It has ALUMINUM ALLOY WHEELS and HEATED SEATS!! Don't get stuck in the snow. This won't last long for only $256/month for 72 months @ 3.99% APR with 20% down on approved credit. Call RICH PINTRICK @ Classic Chevrolet (231)920-8098 to Schedule your test drive TODAY!! CREDIT FORGIVENESS WITH GUARANTEED CREDIT APPROVAL, nice, reliable, cars, trucks, SUV’s and mini vans with low monthly payments on approved credit with warranty. Call Adam @ Classic Chevy today for your options (231)839-7231 or (231)884-8858. Trucks 202 2011 Buick Lacrosse CXL AWD! Loaded, heated leather seats, remote start, low miles, many more option. Warranty! On sale for $16,451. Only $269/mo with $0 down for 72/mos. @ 2.99% APR* on approved credit. Call Ethan with Classic Chevy @ (231)4295162. Tax time special of the week, 2005 Chevy Aveo, great fuel economy and priced @ $2,991.91 plus taxes fees, this great little car won’t last long. Call Adam @ Classic Chevy today to set up a appointment for a test drive (231)884-8858 or (231)839-7231. 2004 Ford F-350 Lariat Super Duty Crew Cab, 6.0 Power Stroke Turbo Diesel, ONLY 137K miles! Heated Leather Seating, 1 Owner, Clean Car Fax, Long Box, Electric Brake Controller, Clean Good Looking Loaded Up Diesel! Retails for $17K+, On Sale for $15,450 plus fees. Financing Available. Obviously will not last long! Call J.P. @ Classic Chevy (231)8397231. 2007 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 4X4, extended cab Duramax Diesel, with a long box! Low mileage, remote start, integrated brake controller, power, and a tow package with a gooseneck! Great buy on a hard to find truck! On sale for $23,971. Only $386/mo with 10% down for 72 mos. @ 5.99% APR* on approved credit. Call Ethan with Classic Chevy at (231)4295162. 2014 SILVERADO DOUBLE CAB LT 4X4 29K MILES this is a 1OWNER and LOCALLY OWNED TRADE that was purchased new and serviced here!! 20” CHROME WHEELS, REMOTE START, TRAILERING PACKAGE, still under FACTORY WARRANTY and much more!! This won't last long for only $378/month for 72 months @ 3.99% APR with 20% down on approved credit. Call RICH PINTRICK @ Classic Chevrolet (231)920-8098 to Schedule your test drive TODAY!! Altercare 2008 GMC SIERRA W/T EXT CAB, this is a LOCAL TRADE this is in excellent condition. Have a V8, CHROME CLAD WHEELS, CHROME NERF BARS, TONNEAU and a TRAILERING PACKAGE. This truck won't be here long for only $286/month for 60 months @ 5.99% APR with 20% down on approved credit. Call RICH PINTRICK @ Classic Chevrolet (231) 920-8098 to Schedule your test drive TODAY!! 2004 Dodge Durango 4x4, Dark Metallic Grey, 3RD ROW SEATING, leather interior, moon roof, trailer hitch, running boards, newer tires, 138K miles, $6,990 or only $183 per month for 48 mos. with ZERO DOWN @ 6.99% APR* on approved credit. Call JP @ Classic Chevy (231)839-7231 or text (231)394-0983. for Rehabilitation & Nursing Care, Inc. State Certified Nursing Assistants Wanted to Buy 717 Cadillac’s Oldest Standing Gold and Coins Buyer. EMPLOYMENT Best valued truck around, 2012 Dodge Ram ST with the 5.7 liter hemi. Priced @ $21,990 plus taxes and fees, this truck needs nothGeneral Help Wanted ing just a owner. Call Adam @ Classic Chevy today to set up a 301 appointment (231)884-8858 or (231)839-7231. Certified Mechanic at Patches Auto in Reed City (231)832-5349. of Big Rapids Center Altercare of Big Rapids Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing Care, Inc. is searching for CENAs. If you are a CENA or have recently completed CENA training and have a good attendance history, clean background and want a career in a growing industry, then we have a place for you! Qualified CENAs will have a strong desire to provide quality care to our residents and thrive in a team environment. We are currently interviewing for all shifts and offer exceptional benefits including…… • Experience Pay • Semi-Annual Uniform Allowances • Promotional Opportunities • Educational Assistance Programs • Shift Differentials CENA work requires more than just skill and experience; it requires someone with an exceptional amount of compassion and dedication to help each facility truly feel like home. We look for these characteristics in each and every one of our employees. Qualified candidates may send resume to: donna.farnsworth@ altercareonline.net or stop by the facility located at: 805 West Ave. Big Rapids, MI. 49307 (231) 796-3185 Paying TOP PRICES! Looking for trees to cut, hardwood, soft wood & Red Pine, 5 acre minimum. Call Jim (231)463-0363. 2012 Chevy Tahoe Z71, loaded up, leather, DVD entertainment system with a few more extras and priced @ $26,998 plus taxes this won’t last long, priced well below retail take advantage of the saving. Call Adam @ Classic Chevy today to set up a test drive (231)884-8858 or (231)8397231. SUV’S 203 2004 F-350 LARIAT CREW CAB DIESEL, 4X4 with 8FT BOX this is a 1-OWNER and LOCALLY OWNED TRADE that has been WELL MAINTAINED. It has leather seats, TRAILERING PACKAGE with BRAKE CONTROLLER, SPRAY IN BEDLINER and MUCH MORE!! A Bargain at just $15,481. Call RICH PINTRICK @ Classic Chevrolet (231)920-8098 to Schedule your test drive TODAY!! (42) 4x5 net wrapped round bales, $25 each. Good hay, you load. 2006 GMC Yukon XL 4X4, local Call (231)734-3272. trade, power, tow package. On sale for $9,981. Only $254/mo with $0 down for 48/mos. @ Firewood & Timber 5.99% APR* on approved credit. Call Ethan with Classic Chevy 517 @ (231)429-5162. Altercare of Big Rapids Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing Care, Inc. Exciting Opportunity! Altercare of Big Rapids has openings for RN’s & LPN’s for both full and part time positions. Our ideal candidates must have some experience in long term care or a similar health care setting and possess the ability to provide exceptional customer service to our residents. Candidates must also: • Be licensed as an RN or LPN in the state of Michigan with no restrictions. • Be able to work productively with other department heads and personnel to meet the goals and strategies of the overall facility. • Enjoy working with geriatric residents. • 8 and 12 hour shifts are available. Our company offers a great Competitive Salary & Excellent Benefit Package including Tuition Reimbursement up to $6,000.00 for recent RN graduates & $3,000.00 for recent LPN graduates in the past 2 years. Qualified candidates meeting the requirements should forward their resume to donna.farnsworth@altercareonline.net or stop by the facility located at: 805 West Ave., Big Rapids, Michigan 49307 (231) 796-3185 The Mecosta-Osceola Intermediate School District is accepting applications for a Network Technician (full time). A complete posting is available at www.moisd.org. Interested applicants must submit a letter of application, resume, transcripts, certifications and references to: Mark R. Klumpp, Assistant Superintendent, Mecosta-Osceola Intermediate School District, 15760 190th Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 by March 2, 2016. SERVICES Furniture/Appliance 426 M & J New & Used Furniture of Evart. TWO NEW LOCATIONS! Large selection of new & used furniture & appliances. We buy, sell, trade & consignment. Open Mon - Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-2pm & Sun 10am-2pm 6181 US-10 & 215 N Main St. Evart (231)734-2707 or (231)734-5080 www.mandjfurniture.com Wexford Jewelers 801 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac 775-1289 • wexfordjewelers.com REAL ESTATE FOR RENT Apartments For Rent 808 Are you having difficulties paying your rent? The Evart Housing Commission has immediate openings in our one bedroom building and our 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhouses. Quality, affordable housing located behind Evart Elementary school. Rent is based on 30% of household income. You can pick an application up at 601 W. First Street, Evart, MI or print one at www.evarthousing.com. Call (231) 734-3301. The Evart Housing Commission is accepting applications for our Section 8 voucher program. You can pick up an application at 601 W. First Street, Evart, MI or print one at www.evarthousing.com. Call (231) 734-3301 for more information. Sell your stuff in the Voice Classifieds for as little as $8.75!* AD DEADLINE: Friday at 5PM EVERYDAY SPECIALS Freebies - FREE EVERY WEEK Lost/Found - FREE EVERY WEEK Call 888-330-4144 for details on placing a classified ad. *some restrictions do apply. voice WEEKLY Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice. 8 • weekly voice www.weeklyvoice.net | Thursday, February 25, 2016 Andy Duffy | Weekly Voice A St. Clair River smallie resides in this display case in Dan Derscheid’s office at Pineview Homes. Something is fishy about Evart anglers’ offices By Andy Duffy Weekly Voice EVART — Dan Derscheid chuckled at the question. “It sure didn’t start out to be a competition,” he said. “We all just added something here and there.” A stranger in the building might easily believe he’d walked into some kind of competition, though. Down one hallway of the central office building of Pineview Homes, Dan Derscheid, his brother Doug and his father, Paul, have offices in proximity to each other. Each office has something fishy about it. Real fishy. Fish mounts hang on the walls. Fish photographs are in cabinets, on shelves, and are hanging from the walls. A fish is in a specially made display case. The fish came from all over. Some came from Canada. At least one came from the St. Clair River. One came from an old gravel pit near Edmore. Others came from lakes close to Evart. A number of different people did the taxidermy work, too. Kevin Perry, of Manton, mounted the big walleye that hangs above Dan’s desk. Some were mounted at The Trophy Room at Jay’s Sporting Goods. Other mounts were prepared at The Wildlife Gallery in Blanchard. Now, Dan’s own work is appearing on office walls. He began studying taxidermy three or four years ago using online YouTube videos and books. Now some of his taxidermy work hangs not only on his walls, but on his brother’s, too. Dan gives his grandfather, uncles and his father credit for getting him interested in outdoor pursuits. For much of his life, Andy Duffy | Weekly Voice This northern pike lurks on the wall of Doug Derscheid’s office. Dan Derscheid offered to mount the fish for Doug. though, he wasn’t nearly as avid an outdoorsman as he is now. It wasn’t until he married and grew older that he began realizing the great outdoor opportunities that Michigan has to offer. He began spending a lot more time hunting and fishing. Now the fruits of his fishing excursions fill his office. Dan’s brother, Doug, said he always had a love for the outdoors. He started going out hunting with his father while he was pretty young. He enjoyed fishing for bluegills and sunfish in his uncle’s pond. A key moment in his developing a love of fishing came when he was 12 and went on his first fishing trip to Canada. “It was kind of a rite of passage for me,” Doug said. On the trip, he camped, helped carry a canoe on portages and paddled for miles. And, of course, there was the fishing for big pike and walleye. He was hooked on the sport. His office reflects that. A monster pike lurks on a wall looking as if it is about to slam the lure just in front of it. A huge bass is there, too. It is hanging out near some structure, just as bass are wont to do. Trophy-sized panfish adorn the wall, too. Mak- ing the scene even more satisfying, Dan mounted the trophy-sized pike and bass for Doug. Paul, Doug and Dan’s father, probably had a lot to do with his sons’ enjoyment of the outdoors. He gave his children plenty of opportunities to do outdoorsy things. For Paul, a devotion to the wild was in his genes. He said that he grew up “loving God’s great outdoors.” Paul, the son of a pastor, moved from place to place when he was young. No matter where he lived, he would seek out nearby creeks and ponds where he would catch frogs and other creatures. He loved studying birds and was always collecting animals and bugs. After high school, Paul attended college and majored in biology. Later he added a master’s degree in Recreation and parks administration. He loved to hunt both with bows and rifles. He was always interested in passing on his outdoor knowledge to others, too. He taught a nature club for years. In recent years, much of his focus has shifted to fishing. He haunts lakes and streams. His office reflects his in- Andy Duffy | Weekly Voice Fish hang out on the walls of Doug Derscheid’s Pineview Homes office. Doug and his father, Paul, and his brother Dan are all avid anglers. terest in both the outdoor pursuits and in his family. A large section of one of his office walls is devoted to snapshots of friends and family members on fishing trips. Paul Derscheid’s parents founded Pineview Homes. Paul went to work at the facility not too many years after its founding. Later, Dan and Doug joined the family business. It was that series of events that enables them to all have offices in the same building. Pineview is now in its 50th year. Paul is the organization’s director. Doug is the casework supervisor, and Dan is the business manager. Their work isn’t the only thing that keeps them close, though. So does their love of the outdoors. They still hunt and fish together. The annual trips to Canada, one of which served as a rite of passage for Doug? They still find time to work those in each spring. They are a close-knit trio. Despite their offices, nothing is fishy about that. Reed City 3 on 3 tOuRnAment Saturday, March 26th, 2016 Reed City High School RegisteR tODAY! www.reedcity.k12.mi.us 6 Divisions for boys and girls (Co-ed teams compete in boys division) Trophies for all members of winning teams Medals for all members of 2nd and 3rd place teams Certified Referees Every participant gets a t-shirt Team fee (up to 4 players) $80 Register by March 7th and save $5 All proceeds benefit Reed City Basketball Program! For more information email Denise at dnelson@reedcity.k12.mi.us Sell your stuff in the Voice Classifieds for as little as $8.75!* Andy Duffy | Weekly Voice This trophy perch adds interest to Paul Derscheid’s office wall. Paul, the father of Doug and Dan, was one of the influences that inspired an outdoor interest in his sons. Ad Deadline: Friday by 5pm Call 888-330-4144 EVEryDAy SpECiAlS Freebies - FREE EVERY WEEK Lost/Found - FREE EVERY WEEK voice for details on placing a classified ad. Weekly Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice. *some restrictions do apply.