Many unique vintage and antique items will be featured at the newly opened Alpena Vintage Company in downtown Alpena. Owner Renee Blanchard has been building inventory and completing renovations to prepare for the store’s Black Friday Grand Opening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Just in time for Christmas shopping, Alpena Vintage Company will have something for all ages. Stop in for sweet treats, hot chocolate and shopping at 200 N. 2nd Ave.

Gingerbread contest registration closing

Registrations for the Downtown Gingerbread Competition are due Sunday. The competition runs from Dec. 14 to 21, hosted by the Alpena Downtown Development Authority.

Registration is only $10 and the competition is open to teams, individuals, businesses and people of all ages and backgrounds.

During the week of Dec. 14, all the submitted gingerbread creations will be on display in downtown businesses. The public will determine the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners by popular vote in ballot boxes found at each of the display locations. Final display locations will be announced during the first week of December. The 1st place winner will receive $100 in Downtown Dollars that can be redeemed at most downtown businesses; 2nd place gets $75 in Downtown Dollars; and 3rd place gets $50 in Downtown Dollars.

To register, fill out the form on the DDA’s website, www.downtownalpenami.com/winter. Registration forms are available at the DDA Offices, Chippewa Valley Mercantile, Olivet Book & Gift, Rusty Petunias Marketplace, and Traveling Ladders. Forms and fees are due at the DDA Offices by Sunday and can be emailed to downtownalpenami@gmail.com or mailed to Alpena DDA, 124 E. Chisholm St., Alpena, MI 49707.

United Way collecting new socks, underwear

This holiday season the United Way of Northeast Michigan is partnering with Thrivent, collecting new socks and underwear for distribution to those in need in our community.

Drop boxes are located at the United Way office at 108 Water St., the Thrivent office at 114 W. Chisholm St., at mBank and Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union, and Mid-Michigan Medical Center-Alpena.

Any organization or business interested in participating in this program should contact the United Way office at 989-354-2221 to have a drop box at their business. The campaign “Wear Down and Sock it to Poverty” and the collection of needed new items will run through Friday, Dec. 13.

Golden Agers met

The Golden Agers enjoyed their Thanksgiving dinner when they met at noon on Nov. 8.

Cathy Cici did the devotions and gave the table prayer. She also helped make the snowmen that won’t melt.

The group will hold its Christmas party at 11 a.m. on Dec. 13 at the 19th Hole.