Waldo Glidden Says Y.M.C.A. are the Bright Spots in Soldier’s Life in that Desolate Land

Somewhere in Russia, Co. F. 339th Amer. E. F. – May 18, 1919.Editor Record:I thought perhaps some of my old friends might enjoy a little message from the wilds of Russia.I am still with the boys, still somewhere in, Russia, but we are holding our friend Bols. the best we can on all fronts.

A LOOK BACK IN TIME | BEAVERTON SOLDIER BOY WRITES FROM RUSSIA

Waldo Glidden’s letter, at right, was published in the July 3, 1919 issue of the Gladwin County Record – 107 years ago. In researching Waldo’s military service, we learned about one of the most unusual military expeditions ever undertaken.

Registration now open for the second annual Pedal to Pines

MIDLANDRegistration is open for the second annual Pedal to Pines event on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 6-9 p.m. Little Forks Conservancy and Friends of the Pere Marquette Rail Trail will host a bike ride, guided hike, followed by an ice cream social, courtesy of Cottage Creamery.

Wandering with the Birds

There is no “closed season” for birding. Sure, most Michigan birders would tell you that May is the prime month, and there are other key birding seasons during the year, but most birders I know head out birding throughout the year.

Veterans Benefits Fair slated July 16

CLARE COUNTYThe Mid Michigan Veterans Benefits Fair will take place on July, 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the CTE John C. Magnus Center located at 3200 S. Clare Ave. in Harrison.

Garden Tour 2026

GLADWIN COUNTYThe Gladwin County Master Gardeners & Friends presents Garden Tour 2026, Woods & Water Throughout Grout Township, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, 1-6 p.m.There are six stops on the tour. Limelight Studios will be the host stop with gardening information and beautiful gardens to tour.

Fiddler On The Roof opens on July 16

GLADWINGladwin Area Friends of the Theatre (GAFT) will open their four-performance run of Fiddler On The Roof, Thursday, July 16, 7 p.m., at the Gladwin cafetorium, with additional shows Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18, also at 7 p.m., with a matinee, Sunday, July 19 at 1 p.m.

COMMUNITY SUPPER

Eagle Ridge Church of God, located at 3987 S. M-18 in Beaverton, will have Community Supper every second Monday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. This free catered meal will have live music. Everyone is invited, no RSVP needed, so bring a friend. No takeout is available.

Cup of Joe free gatherings slated

GLADWIN COUNTYAll U.S. military and veterans are invited to Cup of Joe, a free gathering where veterans can enjoy coffee, treats, share stories, learn about resources, and connect with fellow vets.It will take place on the first Tuesday of every month, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Chamber to host new networking series

BEAVERTONThe Chamber of Commerce will host “Good Morning Gladwin County,” a new networking series designed to bring together local businesses, organizations and community leaders to build connections and opportunities, Friday from 7:30-9 a.m.