Scholarship applications

FREELANDHundreds of scholarships are awarded annually through the Delta College Foundation, made possible by the generosity of donors.Last year, $1,107,500 was awarded to 948 students – 83 percent of all applicants! The deadline to apply is Feb. 4, 2026.

Wandering with the Birds

It was a brisk seven degrees as I stood alone in the darkness on the aptly-named Grim Road. This was my fifth stop along this stretch of road as I tried for Barred Owl, which to this point had not responded to my call.Finally, in the distance, came a faint, “Who cooks for you?

Big Bubble Dance Party at the Standish Art Center to kick-off 2026

STANDISHOn Saturday, Jan. 10, at 2 p.m., the Northeast Michigan Arts Council is sponsoring a Big Bubble Dance Party at its Northeast Art Center, located at the corner of Grove Street Road and US-23 in Standish (1/2-mile north of the Standish traffic light).Every kid and “big kid” loves bubbles!Joel...

CMDHD is offering free and reduced-cost radon home tests

MT. PLEASANTDuring January, donate a nonperishable food item and receive a free home radon test kit, or pick up a test kit for the reduced price of $5 without a donation.January is Radon Action Month, and Central Michigan District Health Department (CMDHD) is encouraging residents to learn more...

Entries sought for Quilt Show

STANDISHEntries are being sought for the Northeast Michigan Arts Council’s 33rd Annual Quilt Show slated for Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, 2026.There is no entry fee, nor are exhibitors required to have made their quilts. A quilt could have been received as a gift or a family heirloom.

Sanctity of Human Life Prayer Service to be held

GLADWINOn Jan. 18, 2026, at 2 p.m., Right to Life (RTL) of Gladwin County invites the pro-life public to gather in front of the Gladwin County Courthouse to participate in a prayer service for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, which is a day for Americans to focus on the value of every human life...

NATIVITY A SUCCESS

The Clare United Methodist church held a successful Live Nativity event again this year at Witbeck’s in their south parking lot on Dec. 23 and 24. Many observers enjoyed this event.

May I Walk With You

Ijust had the experience of officiating at a friend’s funeral. Though not a frequent church goer, she professed a personal relationship with Jesus, prayed often, and though a sinner like the rest of us, did her best to live a moral and ethical life. I really enjoyed our conversations.

FLYNN LUMBER ANNOUNCES WINNERS

On Dec. 1, Wayne Shumway of Gladwin and Tommie Lee of Harrison, were chosen as the winners of the Flynn Lumber Do-It-Best $500 in merchandise Shopping Giveaways.

Changes to community medical care

Veterans who get their medical care from civilian facilities need to keep an eye on what’s coming. In 2026 the contracts (originally signed in 2018) between the VA and community health plan networks are expiring.