St. Ignace
By Miriam Blair 643-7994

A ceremony honoring the opening of the Mackinac Bridge 50 years ago brought people to Bridge View Park last Thursday afternoon, November 1. Many from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, as well as out-of-town visitors and school children, were on hand to see a ribbon cutting marking the anniversary. Glory McLennan baked a cake that was served at the event.

Mr. and Mrs. Clint Jeffreys of St. Ignace are enjoying a vacation in Parkersburg, West Virginia, while visiting family.

Craig and Liz Jarman of Calumet were guests of his parents, Skip and Peggy Jarman of St. Ignace. Craig celebrated his Halloween birthday while here.

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Bonni (nee Laakko) Ward, who passed away October 24. Mrs. Ward, along with her two brothers, Jim and Ken, grew up in St. Ignace and they are known by many in the area.

Jean and Clair Kalbfleisch have left St. Ignace and will spend the winter months in Zephyrhills, Florida.

Patsy Smith was in Davison last weekend, where she visited with her cousins, Michele and Jim McMillan, and their children, Chloe and Chelsea.

Renee Vonderwerth and AnneMarie Dewey visited LaSalle High School October 25 to lead the freshmen physical education classes in a rigorous dance and workout session. The two aerobics instructors, and the students, had a lot of fun. This is the third year both instructors have donated time and efforts to the class, reported teacher David Brines. They'll return for a follow-up session with students in January.

A benefit is planned Saturday, November 10, at the St. Ignace VFW Post for Debbie Martin of Watertown, Wisconsin. A meal will begin at 3 p.m. and live music will begin at 4 p.m., featuring "Mackinaw" and a reunion of the country band "Solid Gold." Food donations will be accepted for the meal, and all musicians are asked to bring their instruments if they wish to play. Ms. Martin, who is in treatment for a brain tumor, grew up in St. Ignace and is the daughter of the late Mary and Clyde Martin.

Also on Saturday, November 10, the HOME for the Holidays Live Auction will take place at 7 p.m. at the St. Ignace Public Library. Charlie Fowler will be the auctioneer. The cost is $10 per person and includes snacks and a beverage. Proceeds will benefit affordable housing programs by Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME), like the current construction of several new homes on West Spring Street, where work is progressing rapidly.

Marion Fenlon said her brother, Arden Smith, of Iron Mountain, is in good spirits and doing his best after a hospital stay.

Happy birthday to Valerie Brown November 12 and Peggy Jarman November 14.

Shorter days and cooler temperatures mean many folks are thinking about winter projects like needlepoint, jigsaw puzzles, crafts, or woodwork to make the best of the winter months.