December 2011 Alden Events

December 2011 Alden Events

Thursday, December 2^nd    the Helena Township  hosts the  “Off  The Wall Film Series” featuring AS GOOD AS IT GETS- 1997, PG-13, Quirky, sentimental, touching dramedy about an acerbic, reclusive author played by Jack Nicholson who lets a stressed-out single mom/waitress, a gay neighbor and his dog into his life.  A themed meal will be served at 6 pm for each film which will start at 7 pm. Bring your own beverage.  Reservations required for the meal by calling the library at 231-331-4318 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-331-4318      end_of_the_skype_highlighting two days in advance. You may also volunteer to bring parts of the meal in in lieu of a donation Library. The film is held at the Community Center located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden. Donations are accepted and appreciated to offset costs. For more information contact Nancy Ludwa at 231-377-7034 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-377-7034      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or aldenlib@torchlake.com.

On Saturday, December 3^rd the Alden Men’s Club will hold their Holiday Brunch with guests included the Alden United Methodist Church at 10:30 AM. Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-322-2787      end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.

Sunday, December 4^th the Torch Area Artisans Guild will hold the Annual Children’s Christmas Party from 1:00 – 4:00 P.M. at the Helena Township Community Center.  The party includes crafts, refreshments and of course, a visit from Santa.  The Community Center is located at 8751 Helena Road.  This is free to the public. For more information call Dorothy Walters @ 231-331-6583 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-331-6583      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

On Wednesday, December 7^th the Juniper Garden Club will hold an Luncheon and Auction  at the Torch Riviera at 12:30 P.M. For more information contact Dandy Bodenbender at 231-331-4476 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-331-4476      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

On Wednesday, December 7th at 4:00 pm and each subsequent Wednesday in December, a Basketry classes will be held at the Helena Township Community Center. A variety of basket styles will be explored. Join any time. Materials fee, but class is free.  Dorothy Walter, instructor.   8751 Helena Road, Alden.  For more info, call Helena Township Library at 231-331-4318 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-331-4318      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

On Thursday, December 15^th  the Helena Township hosts Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at the Helena Township Library. Each month a different book will be discussed.  For more information and a list of the books to be discussed, contact the Library at 231-331-4318 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-331-4318      end_of_the_skype_highlighting oraldenlib@torchlake.com.  The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

On Saturday, December 17^th  the Alden Men’s Club will hold their monthly breakfast meeting at the Alden United Methodist Church at 8:00 AM. Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            231-322-2787      end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.

November 2011 Alden Events

November 2011 Alden Events
Thursday, November 3rd  the Helena Township hosts the  Off the Wall Film Series featuring LE CONCERT- 2009, PG-13, Golden Globe nominee for Best Foreign Language film, uplifting comedy follows fallen Russian maestro Andrey Filipov who seizes a chance to reunite his orchestra and reclaim his life 30 years after politics cut short his music career. A themed meal will be served at 6 pm for each film which will start at 7 pm. Bring your own beverage.  Reservations required for the meal by calling the library at 231-331-4318 two days in advance. You may also volunteer to bring parts of the meal in in lieu of a donation Library. The film is held at the Community Center located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden. Donations are accepted and appreciated to offset costs. For more information contact Nancy Ludwa at 231-377-7034 or aldenlib@torchlake.com.

Tuesday, November 8th from 6-8 pm local artist and photographer, Lisa Lirones will help you master that new digital camera.  Get to know important settings to get the most out of your picture taking and explore new ideas through lighting and perspective.   Taking location photos in the summer; bring your camera. Held at the Helena Township Public Library, 8751 Helena Road, Alden, MI 49612. You can call to register at 231-331-4318.

Thursday, November 10th the Helena Township hosts Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at the Helena Township Library. Each month a different book will be discussed.  For more information and a list of the books to be discussed, contact the Library at 231-331-4318 or aldenlib@torchlake.com.  The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

On Tuesday, November 15th  there will be a Community Blood Pressure and Foot Care Clinic at the Helena Township Community Center with reservation times available beginning at 9:00 a.m.  The clinic is provided by the Northwest Michigan Community Health Agency. The blood pressure clinic is free to the public.  The Foot Care Clinic is $15.00.  Reservations are required.  Call the Library at 231-331-4318 for reservations and more information

Saturday November 19th The Torch Area Artisans Guild will hold its annual Christmas Craft Show at the Helena Township Community Center. The event begins at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 4:00 p.m. The Community Center is located at 8751 Helena Road. A wide variety of local craftsman offer their wares for sale to the public Refreshments are also available.  Contact Dorothy Walter @ 231-331-6583 for more information.

Saturday November 19th The Friends of Helena Township Library will hold a Book Sale at the Community Center from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm.  For more information contact Linda Bicum at 231-322-2811. The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

Saturday, November 26th Alden’s Holiday Illumination of the Community.  The official “Lighting of Alden” begins at 4:00 p.m. downtown.  The town will be officially lighted for the holidays along with a carol sing, refreshments, and a visit from Santa at open shops.  There is no cost to the public.  Sponsored by Downtown Alden Business Association, Alden Volunteers, Helena Township, and the Alden Historical Society.  For more information contact Harvey Bartel at 231-331-4845.

October 2011 Alden Events

October 2011 Alden Events
ALDEN HERITAGE DAYS:
Saturday, October  1st  Alden will host Heritage Day featuring craftspeople and artisans demonstrating their wares and skills throughout the various shops.  The day begins at 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and will include a wide variety of displays.  Refreshments will be offered in some shops.  For more information call Harvey Bartel at 231-331-4845.
  
The Sprig’s and Sprouts will hold an Apple and Bake Sale at the Alden United Methodist Church from 10:30 – 4:00.  For more information contact Tracy Morrison at 231-264-6365.


From 8:00 to Noon, The South Torch Lake Fire Department will hold a Heritage Pancake Breakfast and Open House at the South Torch Lake Fire Hall. For more information contact Jesse Lane at 231-409-6876. 

Sunday, October 2nd  A Classic Car Show downtown will feature automobiles from many Northern Michigan car clubs.  The automobiles will be displayed between 11:00 and 4:00 in downtown Alden.  For more information call Dave and Joyce Looman at 616-928-1298.

On Thursday, October 6th The Helena Township Off the Wall Film Series starts the season with a new movie each month.  A soup dinner served at 6:00 p.m. Bring your own beverage. Register by calling the library at 231- 331-4318 but no reservation is needed for movie only at 7:00 p.m. The film is held at the Helena Township Community Center in Alden at 8751 Helena Road in Alden and admission is free but donations are welcomed.  Optional: email your soup recipe to aldenlib@torchlake.com . Movies to be announced at a later date. 

On Thursday, October 13 the Helena Township hosts Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at the Helena Township Library. Each month a different book will be discussed.  For more information and a list of the books to be discussed, contact the Library at 231-331-4318 or aldenlib@torchlake.com.  The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

On Saturday, October 29th the Alden Men’s Club will hold their monthly meeting breakfast meeting at 8:00 am at the Alden United Methodist Church.  Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787 for more information. 

Sunday, October 30th: There will be a chili cook-off fund raiser to benefit “With a Little Help From My Friends” a local non-profit animal rescue group.  Local restaurants compete for the best chili award.  Event includes a silent auction and bake sale and is held at the Helena Township Community Center east of Alden @ 8751 Helena Road from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.  Contact Heather Knust at 231-322-6041 for more information.

Monday, October 31st: Alden hosts its annual Halloween celebration in the downtown Tennis Court Park.  The celebration includes a costume parade for the children at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by costume judging, prizes and refreshments.  For more information call Jesse Lane at 231-409-6876.

September 2011 Alden Events

September 2011 Alden Events
On Saturday, Sunday and Monday, September 3 & 4 & 5 there will be a Model Train Exhibit at the Alden Depot Park Museum beginning at 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. and on Monday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The displays are furnished by area individuals and include wooden train and various gauge models.  The public is welcome to include their trains for display also. The Museum is located at 10670 Coy Street in Alden. Free to the public. Sponsored by the Alden Historical Society.  For more information call Paul Delange @ 231-377-7333.  Monday will be the last day the Museum is open for this year. 

On Thursday, September 8th the Helena Township will start their Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at the Helena Township Library. Each month a different book will be discussed.  For more information and a list of the books to be discussed, contact the Library at 231-331-4318 or aldenlib@torchlake.com.  The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

On Tuesday, September 13th, from 6-8 pm local artist and photographer, Lisa Lirones will help you master that new digital camera.  Get to know important settings to get the most out of your picture taking and explore new ideas through lighting and perspective.   Taking location photos in the summer; bring your camera. Held at the Helena Township Public Library, 8751 Helena Road, Alden, MI 49612. You can call to register at 231-331-4318.


Saturday, September 17th The Alden Men’s Club will host their annual Harvest Dinner and Live Auction at 6:00 at the Helena Township Community Center located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.  Tickets and can be purchased in advance by calling Larry Fields at 231-322-2787.  Take out is also available by calling in advance.

August 2011 Alden Events

August 2011 Alden Events
On Monday, August 1st through Friday, August 5th The Friends of Helena Township Library will have a book sale at the Helena Township Library during regular business hours beginning at 12:00 noon on Monday. The library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.  For more information contact Linda Bicum at 231-322-2811 or the Library at 231-331-4318.

On Tuesday, August 2nd the Torch Lake Protective Association will hold their annual meeting and pot luck at the Alden Depot Park at 4:00 PM. For more information contact Bob Robbins @231-331-4711.


On Tuesday, August 2nd there will be a Memorial Tribute to Deceased Members and Michigan soldiers sponsored by the Juniper Garden Club at the Alden Depot Park at 11:30.  Pot luck Picnic.  Contact Sandy Bodenbender @ 231-331-4476 for more information.

On Wednesday August 3rd and each Wednesday in August there will be Toddler Time Story Hour at the Helena Township Library from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. for preschoolers.   Toddler Time is free and includes snacks, crafts and stories. The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.  For more information contact the library at 231-331-4318.

On Thursday, August 4th and each Thursday in August through August 18th
Alden hosts the Thursday Night Evening Stroll featuring different street entertainers each week. The stroll is held from 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. each week and shops and restaurants stay open late for visitor’s enjoyment.  Call Tom Baker at 231-331-4700 for more information.

On Saturday and Sunday August 6th and 7th the Torch Area Artisans Guild will sponsor a Quilt Show at the Depot Park from 10:00 – 4:00.  For more information contact Carol Hoadley at 231-350-0650. The Depot Park is located at 10670 Coy Street, Alden.

On Thursday, August 11th the Helena Township Library will hold Photography with local artist and photographer, Lisa Lirones. You will learn to master that new digital camera, learn how to manipulate your camera and get to know important settings to get the most out of your picture taking. Bring your camera. Held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Helena Township Library, 8751 Helena Road, Alden, MI  231-331-4318

On Friday, August 12th the Alden Volunteers will hold their Annual Potluck Dinner at 7:00 PM at the Alden Park. For more information contact Patty Findlay at 231-331-6424.

On Saturday, August 13th the Twin Bay British Car Club will hold a Tour and Pot Luck starting at the Alden Depot Park.  For more information contact Butch Faux at 231-590-6059 or Dave Looman at 616-928-1298.

On Sunday, August 14 The Alden Classic Sports Car Show sponsored by the Twin Bay British Car Club will be held in downtown Alden featuring both foreign and domestic cars.    The show will begin at 11:00 a.m. and run until 4:00 p.m. and is free to the public.  This event is open to all classic sports car entries, foreign and domestic. Contact Butch Faux at 231-590-6059 or Dave Looman at 616-928-1298 for more information.

On Saturday and Sunday, August 13th and 14th  AND each weekend following in August there will bea Model Train Exhibit at the Alden Depot Park Museum beginning at 10:00 p.m.- 4 :00 p.m. on Saturday and  1:00 – 4:00 on Sunday. The displays are furnished by area individuals and include wooden train and various gauge models.  The public is welcome to include their trains for display also. The Museum is located at 10670 Coy Street in Alden. Free to the public. Sponsored by the Alden Historical Society.  For more information call Paul Delange @231-377-7333.

July 2011 Alden Events

July 2011 Alden Events
The Alden Thursday Night Stroll continues every Thursday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and each week will feature a different entertainer.  Shops and restaurants stay open late for visitor’s enjoyment.  For more information contact Tom Baker at 231-331-4700.

Each Wednesday in July the Helena Township Library will hold its Toddler Time Story Hour from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. for area preschoolers.  It will be held each Wednesday throughout the summer.  Toddler Time is free and includes snacks, crafts and stories. The Library is located at8751 Helena Road, Alden and can be reached at 231-331-4318.

On Monday, July 4th the South Torch Area Association will hold their annual BBQ Chicken
Dinner to benefit the South Torch Lake 4th of July Fireworks.  Held from 12:00 noon until 5:00p.m. on the lawn of the Alden Bar and Grille downtown Alden. An easy walk from the harbor boat slips. For more information contact Pete Stephenson at 231-620-0788.

On Monday, July 4th the South Torch Lake Fireworks will be held at dark.  The firework
display over Torch Lake is held at the South end of the lake at Torch River. The best view from land is on Crystal Beach Road or South West Torch Lake Drive.  Get a terrific view from the lake by boat.  Contact John Peal @ 231-322-2395 for more information.

On Thursday, July 7th the Juniper Garden Club will hold their annual Garden Walk from
10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Register at the Alden Depot Park. For more information contact Lynn
Durling at231-322-2559.

On Thursday, June 14th, the Helena Township Library will hold Photography with local artist and photographer, Lisa Lirones. You will learn to master that new digital camera, learn how to manipulate your camera and get to know important settings to get the most out of your picture taking. Bring your camera. Held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Helena Township Library, 8751 HelenaRoad, Alden, MI  231-331-4318.

On Friday and Saturday, July 15-16 Alden United Methodist Church holds a Homemade
Cherry Pie Sale - $10.00 each, pre-orders recommended.  Pre-order forms are available at
Alden Methodist Church, Alden Depot Museum and the Helena Township Community Center or call the Church at 331-4132. Pick up pies at the Alden Methodist Church:  July 16 - 3:00 -
7:00 and on July 17 - 11:00 - 1:00. For more information contact Diane Nemeth at 231-331-
6365.


On Friday, July 22 Alden’s Annual Wine & Beer Tasting, “Hops & Berries” will be held on
the shores of Torch Lake from 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.  Local vineyards & breweries offer tasting at the Alden Depot Park on the South end of town accompanied by live Jazz and a silent auction. Sponsored by the Downtown Alden Business Association.   Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.  Contact Coleen Richmond at 231-331-4711

On Saturday, July 23 The Downtown Alden Business Association will host the annual Encore Winds Concert in the Park.  This is an event you won’t want to miss.  The concert begins at 7:30 P.M. and is free to the public.  Enjoy a variety of old favorites including marches and big band music.  The concert is held rain or shine.  For more information call Coleen Richmond at231-331-4711


On Saturday, July 23, the Alden Men’s Club will hold a special monthly meeting at the Alden United Methodist Church at 8:00 AM. Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787  for more
information. 


ALDEN DAYS EVENTS:  July 29 – July 31
Fri. from 6:00 – 7:30 A Cake Walk held at the Alden Bar and Grille sponsored Alden
Volunteers contact Jack Findlay @231-331-6424.  9149 Helena Road, Alden.

Sat. from 9:00 a.m. the United Methodist Women hold a Bake Sale at the Alden United
Methodist Church.  For more information contact Sharon Lessard at 231-533-9297. 9015 Helena
Road, Alden.

Sat. from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm the Alden Men’s Club hold a Rummage Sale at the Alden
United Methodist Church for more information contact Larry Mitchel at 231-322-6216. 9015
Helena Road, Alden.

Sat. at 7:30 a.m. Registration for the Alden Run will take place in the open space on the North
end of town by Nifty Things & Paradise Properties.   For more information contact Steve
Kershner, @ 231-377-7319.

The Alden Run begins at 9:00.  Instructions will be handed out at registration.
Sat. from 10:00 – Noon A Kids Carnival will be held at the Tennis Court Park.  This event is
sponsored by the Alden Volunteers.  Contact Patti Findlay @ 231-331-6254 for more
information.

Sat. from noon – 6:00 p.m. The South Torch Lake Fire Department hosts the Famous Beef Roast Lunch held in Downtown Alden. For more information contact Jesse Lane 
@ 231-409-6876.

Sat. at 1:00 p.m. the Parade will be held downtown. This event is sponsored by The Alden
Volunteers.  For more information contact Bill Bockstahler at 231-331-2024 or Richard Milock at 231-377-6005

Sat., The Helena Township Pot Luck and Music will be held at the depot park from 3:00 p.m.
to 6:00 p.m. 10670 Coy Street, Alden. AND Craft Show at the same time at the Tennis Court
Park on the North end of Alden.  For more information contact Penny Wagner at 231-331-
4643 or Linda Hogerhyde at 231-533-4526.

Sat., July 30 and Sunday, July 31, The Torch Area Artisans Guild will sponsor a Quilt
Show at the Depot Park from 10:00 – 4:00 on Saturday and 1:00 – 4:00 on Sunday.  For more information contact Carol Hoadley at 231-350-0650. 10670 Coy Street, Alden.

June 2011 Alden Events

June 2011 Alden Events

Monday, June 6th through Friday, June 10th,
   the Helena Township Library will hold a book sale beginning at Noon each day during normal
   Library hours and ending at Noon on Friday. The library is located at 8751 Helena Road in
   Alden. 231-331-4318.

Wednesday, June 8th
   the Helena Township hosts Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at
   the Helena Township Library. This month’s book is Widow of the South – Hicks.Hicks's big
   historical first novel, based on true events in his hometown, follows the saga of Carrie
   McGavock, a lonely Confederate wife who finds purpose transforming her Tennessee
   plantation into a hospital and cemetery during the Civil War. Carrie is mourning the death of
   several of her children, and, in the absence of her husband, has left the care of her house to her
   capable Creole slave Mariah. Before the 1864 battle of Franklin, Confederate Gen. Nathan
   Bedford Forrest commandeers her house as a field hospital. By the end of the battle, 9,000
   soldiers have perished, and thousands of Confederates are buried in a field near the
   McGavock  plantation. Carrie fights to relocate the buried soldiers when her wealthy neighbor
   threatens to plow up the field after the war. Valiantly, Hicks returns to small, human stories in
   the midst of an epic catastrophe. Copyright © Reed Business Information. For more infor-
   mation and a list of the books to be discussed, contact the Library at 231-331-4318 or
   aldenlib@torchlake.com . The Library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

Thursday, June 16

   the Alden Historical Society will hold its Annual Picnic and the Alden Depot Park at 5:00 PM.
   For more information contact Paul Delange at 231-377-7333.

Friday, June 17th
   The United Methodist Women will sponsor a Baked Chicken Dinner and dessert at the Alden
   United Methodist Church from 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome.  The church is
   located at 9015 Helena Road in Alden. For more information contact Sue Accord at
   231-331-4550.

Saturday, June 18th
   the Alden Men’s Club will hold their monthly breakfast meeting at the Alden United Methodist
   Church at 8:00 AM. Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787 for more information

Sunday, June 19th
   The Downtown Alden Business Association will host its annual Strawberry Festival at the
   Alden Depot Park from 12:00 noon until 4:00 P.M. Michigan berries are served over shortcake
   and topped off with real whipped cream. Fresh berries are also available to take home. The
   Depot Park is located at 10670 Coy Street. Please contact Fletcher Carter at 231-377- 7297 for
   more information.

Thursday, June 23rd
   the Alden Thursday Night Stroll begins for the summer. It is held from  6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
   every Thursday and each week will feature a different entertainer. Shops and restaurants stay
   open late for visitor’s enjoyment. For more information contact Tom Baker at 231-331-4700.

On Saturday, June 25th
   the Alden Men’s Club is sponsoring the ROBERT SARHATT  MEMORIAL GOLF
   TOURNAMENT to benefit local food pantries including Kalkaska, Rapid City, Bellaire,
   Mancelona, and Ellsworth. Held at Twin Birch Golf Course in Kalkaska, registration begins at
   8:00 A.M., tee off is at 9:00 A.M. $50 per person includes a cart, and green fees plus an award
   ceremony and meal following the tournament. Advance registration is preferred but not
   required. To register contact Brad Fields at 231-518-4067.

On Saturday and Sunday June 25th and 26th
   there will be a Community Antique Sale and Cottage Decor Tag Sale at the
   Alden Depot Park from 10:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. sponsored by the Historical Society. Area
   individuals are welcome to sell their extra treasurers. Sign up for vendors is Wednesday,
   Thursday or Friday prior to the sale from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. The vendor fee is a 15%
   donation to benefit the Museum & Depot Renovation Project. The Depot Park is located on the
   south end of town at 10670 Coy Street in Alden. For more information call Dorothy Walters at
   231-331-6583 or231-331-4274.

On Monday June 27 – July 1
   the Alden United Methodist Church will have Vacation Bible School for all children ages 4
   years through 12 years. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Come join us. Pre-registration is
   recommended but not required. Registration will be limited. Registration forms are available
   at the Alden Methodist Church. The Church is located at 9015 Helena Road in Alden. For more
   information contact the Church Office at 231-331-4132 or Reida Aston at 231-331-6761

On Monday June 27^th
   at 7:00 PM, Chris Doyal, President of the Grand Traverse Bay Underwater Preserve will show
   us what they have located in the Grand Traverse Bay and other bodies of water in the area and
   explain the technology and physical activity used to do so. He will also be seeking input from
   attendees as to the possible location of other underwater human artifacts. People interested in
   learning more about the organization before the meeting can visit GTBUP.org. Helena
   Township Library located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.  For more  information call
   231-331-4318

May 2011 Alden Events

May 2011 Alden Events 

On Sunday, May 1st

  The South Torch Lake Fire & Rescue Department will host its Annual

  Spaghetti Dinner from 12:00 until 5:00 p.m.  Homemade spaghetti is served with
  cole slaw, garlic bread and deserts. Take out is also available.  This has become a

  local tradition in Alden.  $8 for adults and $5 for children.  Proceeds benefit the
  Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department. Dinner is held at the Helena Township
  Community Center in Alden at 8751 Helena Road.  For more information call Jesse
  Lane at 231-409-6876.

Every Tuesday in May 

  the Helena Township Library will hold Mah Johg from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.

  No limit on participants. All levels. Come and learn to play. Helena Township

  Library, 8751Helena Road, Alden, MI  231-331-4318.

On Thursday, May 5th

  The Helena Township Off the Wall Film Series will feature HOPE AND

  GLORY- 1987, PG-13, In this Oscar-nominated film set in WW II-era London, the
  threat of danger from the skies above thrills 7 yr. old Billy whose supportive mother

  tries to keep the family strong as the bombings increase.  Although Billy’s sister

  suffers heartbreak and the family home is wrecked, the movie limelights the

  bemusing aspects of everyday life during wartime. Bring your own beverage.  Call

  the Library, 231-331-4318, for reservations if you plan to come at 6:00 p.m. to dine

  and socialize.  No reservation needed for movie only. The film is held at the

  Community Center located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden. Donations are accepted

  and  appreciated to offset costs. For more information contact Nancy Ludwa at

  231-377-7034 or aldenlib@torchlake.com .

On Thursday, May 5th

  at 10:30 AM the Helena Township Enrichment Program will present Writing for Fun

  with Dorothy Clore. Learn to express yourself in writing, producing  pieces that will

  be personally useful to each participant. Bring your favorite writing utensils and

  paper. Helena Township Library, 8751 Helena Road, Alden, MI  231-331-4318.

On May 7th

 from 2:00 - 4:00 The Alden United Methodist Women - Mother/Daughter Tea. The

 church is located at 9015 Helena Road in Alden. Finger food is provided along with

 the tea.Reservations are not required but are appreciated.  To make reservations or for

 more information contact Darlene Paige at 231-331-6300.    

On Saturday, May 7th

  the Rapid City PTA will old a Dinner and Silent Auction at the Rapid City

  Elementary School beginning at 6:00 PM. Contact Janie Shierf at 231-331-8886 for

  more information.

On Tuesday, May 10th

  at 4:00pm The Helena Township Enrichment Program will present

  “Geocaching”. Often described as a GPS-enabled treasure hunt, this popular hobby

  will be detailed by area resident Dick Steiger.   Held at the Helena Township Library

  located at 8751Helena Rd., Alden, MI. Call 231-331-4318 for more information.

On Wednesday, May 11th

  the Helena Township hosts Books ‘N Brie Book Club at 3:30 P.M. at

  the Helena Township Library. This month’s book is Freedom -  Jonathan Franzen.

  Freedom is his fourth novel, a wrenching, funny, and forgiving portrait of a

  Midwestern family.  Patty and Walter Berglund find each other early: a pretty jock,

  focused on the court and a little lost off it, and a stolid budding lawyer, besotted with

  her and almost burdened by his integrity. They make a family and a life together,

  and, over time, slowly lose track of each other. Their stories align at times with Big

  Issues--among them mountaintop removal, war profiteering, and rock-n-roll--and

  in some ways can't be separated from them, but what you remember most are the

  characters, whom you grow to love the way families often love each other: not for

  their charm or goodness, but because they have their reasons, and you know them. –

  Tom Nissley. For more information and a list of the books to be discussed, contact

  the Library at 231-331-4318 oraldenlib@torchlake.com .  The Library is located at

  8751 Helena Road in Alden.

On Saturday, May 21st

  the Alden Men’s Club will hold a special breakfast meeting at the Alden

  United Methodist Church at 8:00 AM. Contact Larry Fields at 231-322-2787 for

  more information.

On Wednesday, May 25th

  at 9:00 AM the Helena Township Library Enrichment Program will

  present “Making Stuffed Grape Leaves” with Marcia Courey. Learn to roll and stuff

  grape leaves and take some home to bake or freeze. Attendance is limited so register

  early. Cost will be determined. The library is located at 8751 Helena Road in Alden.

  231-331-4318.

On Monday, May 30

  the Alden Depot Museum Opens for the Season from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

  daily. The Museum is located on the south end on Alden on Torch Lake.  Contact

  Paul Delange at 231-377-7333 for more information.

On Monday, May 30th

  there will be a Memorial Day Parade and Service beginning at 1:00 PM in

  downtown Alden.  A service at the Helena Township Cemetery follows.  Contact

  Priscilla Miller at 231-624-0069 or Pastor Dan Biteman at 231-331-4132 for more

  information.