Edna Rushford's house was full of joy on Christmas day, with the addition of four great-grandchildren, who were all born in 2006, bringing the total of her great-grandchildren to 36. Mrs. Rushford has eight children and 20 grandchildren. Hello, everyone. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. This is always such a special time of the year, for many reasons.

Now it’s on to the new year.

Karl Bohnak will be visiting Engadine Library, Saturday, January 13, at 11 a.m. Mr. Bohnak will be telling local storm stories and signing copies of his book, “So Cold a Sky." This family event is sponsored by Friends of the Engadine Library.

The Michigan State University Extension will host the fourth annual Culture Fest Thursday, January 18, with a spotlight on the Phillipines, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the basement of the Community Building in Newberry. A threepart series of hands-on, multicultural events is planned for the entire family. All ages are welcome, and families are encouraged to attend together. There is no charge for admission. The first two programs were held Thursday, November 9, and Thursday, December 7.

This event is sponsored by the Tahquamenon Area Senior Citizens.

Happy birthday to Leah Gribbell and Alex Kenwabikise December 28, Alice Schroeder, Amy Jo Zdebski, Katie Biang, Tim Mast Sr., Richard Ozanich, Briana Maudrie, and Melissa (Weber) Kowalski December 29, Joann Trier December 30, Tracie Abram, Dani Rutledge, and James Everhart December 31, Kassandra Kerbersky January 1, Ashton Buss January 3, Leighton Miller January 4, and Arianna Price, Tom Hoogterp, Todd Feneley, and Rodney Bigelow January 5.

Happy anniversary to Dave and Linda Livermore December 28, Richard and Cheryl Ozanich December 29, Steve and Trinda Lane January 1, Rob and Melanie Chaffin January 2, and Bill and Janice Wagner January 3.

New Year’s Eve parties and get-togethers are always fun, but please party sensibly, and don’t drink and drive. Designate someone to be the driver. If you need a babysitter for your children, plan for your designated driver to bring your babysitter home, too. Parents, please remind your child not to ride with anyone who has been drinking, not even a friend or family member. Be sure your child knows who they can call if they need a ride home.

As 2006 comes to an end, I would like to say how much I appreciate everyone who has sent

news and information to me throughout the past year, along with notes just to say hello. I look forward to hearing from you and others throughout the new year.

Until next time, take care. Happy New Year!