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Forest Festival | 2021

2021 Manistee National Forest Festival Event Schedule Schedule is subject to change. Visit manisteenews.com or manisteeforestfestival.com for updates.

JULY 1-4 Noon-Dusk Anderson Midway Carnival, Douglas Park Take the family to enjoy the rides, games, food and fun that only the carnival can provide. 10 a.m. to Dusk Timber Art, Douglas Park First Street Beach Watch as master chainsaw carver Lonnie Glines create works of wood art which will be available for purchase

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Outdoor Book Sale, behind the Manistee Library at 95 Maple St. Outdoor only book sale customers are asked to wear masks and social distance, as this is library property and library guidelines are followed.

Fundraiser for the Manistee Community Track. Trophies/ plaques for overall winners and age group winners. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Outdoor Book Sale, behind the Manistee Library at 95 Maple St. Outdoor only book sale -customers are asked to wear masks and social distance, as this is library property and library guidelines are followed.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Totally Awesome! 1980s Pop Culture in Manistee, Manistee County Historical Museum, 425 River St. An exhibit featuring games, toys, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. movies, books, music, theatre and Family Day, JULY 1-5 photos from Manistee in the 1980s. Lighthouse Park Family day with family centered Noon-Dusk 8 p.m. to Midnight activities including a costume Festival Marketplace, Douglas Cafe 1907 Block Party, 254 River contest, scavenger hunt, Park/First Street Beach St. (Ironworks building) community booths and family Enjoy shopping for a variety of Onager will be performing; pulled competition (potato sack race, goods. Vendors come from across pork sandwiches and chips tug of war, pie eating). Free lunch the state will bring lots of unique available for purchase; cash bar, provided for kids up to age 16. items. $15 admission. 7-10 p.m. JULY 1 JULY 3 Jaycees Beach Jam, First Street Beach 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate summer with some Totally Awesome! 1980s Pop Totally Awesome! 1980s Pop good tunes. BYOB (no glass Culture in Manistee, Culture in Manistee, bottles), bring a chair and social Manistee County Historical Manistee County Historical distancing encouraged. Museum, 425 River St. Museum, 425 River St. Free event. An exhibit featuring games, toys, An exhibit featuring games, toys, movies, books, music, theatre and movies, books, music, theatre and 1-3 p.m. photos from Manistee in the 1980s. photos from Manistee in the 1980s. Little Big Shots – Talent Show, Lion’s Pavilion 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 12:30-2:30 p.m. See the talents of our children ages July 4th Kick-off Party, COVID Vaccine Pop Up Clinic, 4-16; their singing, dancing and Wagoner Community Center, Douglas Park playing the piano will amaze you. 260 St. Mary’s Parkway District Health Department #10 Outdoor party/picnic. Open to the will be offering a Pop up COVID 5-8 p.m. public. Jerry Zupin will cater the vaccine clinic. Johnson & Johnson Celebrating 120 Years at Manistee meal, Virgil Baker and the Just 4 and Pfizer vaccines will be Golf and Country Club, Manistee Fun band will provide the enteravailable. Golf and Country Club, 500 tainment. Food, fun, prizes. Tickets Cherry Road are available at the senior center. 8:15 a.m. Celebrating 120 years, 1901-2021, Manistee Firecracker 5K Run/ at Manistee Golf and Country 6-9 p.m. Walk, Manistee Middle/High Club. Picnic style event, open to Cousin Curtiss in Concert, School (tentative) the public. Live music, food and Wagoner Community Center, 260 St. Mary’s Parkway, Cousin Curtiss will perform; there also will be food truck. The public is invited. Admission is $10/ person. 6-9 p.m. Middle School Dance, Armory Youth Project, 555 First St. If you’re going to be in sixth, seventh or eighth grade in the 2021-22 school year, grab a friend and head to the Armory Youth Project to hang out, win prizes and maybe even dance. Concessions will be available, and registration is required.

The July 4th Kick-off Party at the Wagoner Community Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 1 will feature Virgil Baker and the Just 4 Fun band. (File photo)

beverage available, fun and games for the family. JULY 4 10 a.m. Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony, Veterans Memorial Park Pay tribute to those who have served or who are currently serving with this traditional flag raising ceremony. 8:30-10:30 p.m. Special Sunset and Fireworks Cruise on board The Princess of Ludington A special cruise to enjoy the sunset and the Forest Fest fireworks show from the deck of the Princess of Ludington. Book your cruise on ManisteeHarborTours.com. Find the cruise fares online. Free popcorn will be provided. The

Princess has a bar onboard. Dusk (approximately 10 p.m.) Fireworks over Lake Michigan, First Street Beach Enjoy a traditional fireworks show. JULY 5 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Totally Awesome! 1980s Pop Culture in Manistee, Manistee County Historical Museum, 425 River St. An exhibit featuring games, toys, movies, books, music, theatre and photos from Manistee in the 1980s. 3 p.m. Scottville Clown Band Concert, Lions Pavilion Area Bring your chair and refreshments to watch the humorous Clown Band perform. It is a must-see show.

The Anderson Midway Carnival will be held at Douglas Park from noon to dusk July 1-4. (File photo)

JULY 2 8 a.m. to Noon Manistee National Forest Festival Golf Outing, Manistee National Golf Resort Grab your clubs and get ready for the annual Forest Festival Golf Outing 4-Person Scramble. Enjoy playing 18 holes of golf at Manistee National Golf & Resort during this popular festival event.

Many events during the Manistee National Forest Festival will be held at or near the Lions Pavilion at Douglas Park/First Street Beach July 1-5. (File photo)

The Festival Marketplace offers a variety of goods. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

Manistee’s annual Firecracker 5K returns in person on July 3 Dylan Savela For the News A dvocate

the top male, top female, top masters male (age 40+) and top masters female, with plaques and medals awarded to the winners of each age group.

Last summer, the world did its best to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, but there was no masking how different things were.

Proceeds from the event will continue to support the Manistee Community Track, providing funds for equipment as well as future bleachers and press box.

Even the most tried and true traditions had their twists, including Manistee’s annual Firecracker 5K. The race was run “virtually,” as participants ran on their own and times were compiled for the final results. What a difference a year makes. On Saturday, July 3, the Firecracker 5K Run/Walk will return in person, scheduled to be held at Manistee Middle/High School (525 12th St.). The race route will once again take participants through mostly flat neighborhoods, down near the Lake Michigan shoreline, and up one challenging hill on the last mile.

Eric Thuemmel. “We’ll do everything as safe as possible, according to the CDC guidelines at that time, but as it looks now, we’ll be back to normal as much as possible.”

“It’s so much more fun running in person, with a group,” said race director

The event will feature a 1K Fun Run at 8 a.m., followed by the featured 5K at ap-

Manistee’s annual Firecracker 5K will be held in person on July 3 after being held “virtually” a summer ago. (File photo)

proximately 8:15 a.m. Thuemmel hopes to see nearly 300 participants sign up for the race, which is preferably done online at runmanistee.blogspot.com. Those interested can preregister through the website or print off a registration form to be mailed in. Registration

will be open up to the day of the event, but entry fees will increase after June 26. Registrants will receive a T-shirt for their participation and can choose between a specially designed cotton T-shirt or a quick drying tech T-shirt. Overall trophies will be awarded to

“Just this past spring, that track produced four conference championships,” Thuemmel said, citing recent success of the local track and field teams that practice and host events at the Manistee Community Track. “Manistee (varsity) boys, Manistee (varsity) girls, Manistee Catholic Central (varsity) boys and the Manistee Middle School boys all won their conference, so it’s a track that has been extremely beneficial to the community. “This summer they started a youth program at the track too, so there’s a lot of good things happening there.”

Registration is open for Manistee’s Annual Firecracker 5K. (File photo)

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The annual Firecracker 5K will return in person on July 3. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

The U.S. Forest Service will host a booth during Family Fun Day on July 3 at Lighthouse Park as part of the Manistee National Forest Festival. (File photo)

Tabernacle Church to sponsor Family Fun Day Robert Myers

family vibe and hang out together and build up our community that The Tabernacle Church way.” is hoping to create a fun As part of Family Fun family picnic experience Day, all kids 16 and when they host a Family under will receive a free Fun Day as part of the lunch sponsored by a Manistee National Forlocal business. There est Festival. will also be booths from This event will run community organizafrom 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. tions, such as the U.S. on July 3 at Lighthouse Forest Service and ManPark. istee County Library, It is the first time the and a number of fun Tabernacle Church is activities for the whole sponsoring the event, family to enjoy. and campus adminis“We want to do a famitrator Heather Bush said ly picnic vibe, where you she is very excited to have the three-legged engage with the comrace, the egg toss and munity in such a way. a pie eating contest,” “We’ve been there with Bush said. “Those things our bounce houses a are going to start at couple years ago, but 11 a.m., and we think this is the first year they will last maybe an we’ve sponsored the hour or an hour-andwhole thing,” Bush said. a-half. We just want to “Our church loves to have a lot of different partner with our comactivities that families munity, especially with can participate in. families and finding ways for families to “There will be a winner get together … We just in each event and have want to emphasize that an overall family winner. rmyers@pioneergroup.com

We really want to get the whole family involved and get parents interacting and having fun with their kiddos.” The Tabernacle Church has not planned too many events this summer, as uncertainty still abounds even as COVID-19 guidelines are eased back, however, Bush said that they plan to host a movie night in August and are typically involved in Onekama’s Fall Fest. So far, Bush said they have recruited about a dozen volunteers from her church and a half dozen more from the Forest Service, but she would happily welcome more volunteers from the community if they are willing to help make the event a success.

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During a past Family Fun Day event during the Manistee National Forest Festival, chalk art was offered for children. This year, organizers plan picnic-type events like an egg toss and pie eating contest. (File photo)

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Forest Festival | 2021

Forest Festival Marketplace is a treasure trove for everyone K en Grabowski For the News A dvocate

There will even be food vendors on the site with Uncle Bill’s Taco Wagon and Big Red’s Barbecue. Combined with the carnival that will be located across First Street in the parking lot, that area should draw in lots of people.

The Manistee National Forest Festival has always been known as an event that offers something for everyone, as is the case with the always popular Marketplace.

With all those people in that area, another option will be available for those people who want to remain safe from COVID-19. A District Health Department #10 COVID Vaccine Pop-up clinic station will be set up in the parking lot at Douglas Park from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on July 3.

Those looking for unique items of all kinds can usually find them at the Marketplace. Held each year during the festival at First Street Beach’s Douglas Park, it draws in lots of people to look at what the many vendors have to offer. It will be taking place in the usual location from July 1-4 at the Rocket Park area. Festival organizers are encouraging the public to come down and check out what the Marketplace vendors have to offer. Kristina Bajtka, Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce director of communication and investor relations, said traditionally people looked for a printed brochure of festival events like the Marketplace, but that will not happen this year. She said because COVID-19 restrictions just recently opened up many events are coming together

The Manistee National Forest Festival Marketplace will return in 2021 to the area near Rocket Park near First Street. (File photo)

much later than normal and it didn’t leave the chamber with time to have a brochure printed.

going on and where it is taking place.

“We are putting the events on the website Manistee Forest Festival.com and the Facebook page as they come in to us,” said Bajtka.

Forest Festival officials said early reports from other areas that have held Marketplace events this year are encouraging. The festival in Kalkaska drew more than 70 vendors to its Marketplace.

The chamber will keep updating those new additions right up to the start of the festival so people can find out what is

However, Manistee chamber officials said that number might be optimistic for the Forest Festival since they had a

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late start due to COVID-19, and some vendors may have made other plans for that weekend. Festival officials are still remaining hopeful as they are getting good feedback from the vendors. “It was the biggest turnout they had up there in 30 years at Kalkaska, so they are excited to come to Manistee,” said Batjka. “There should be a little bit of everything.”

They will be offering both the one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine and the first of two Pfizer shots for those who would like to get vaccinated. The area down at Douglas Park should have plenty of people, as festival officials are also planning on having the Whispering Pines Mobile Zoo, as well as other traditional events in that area like the timber art, from July 1-4. There is something for everyone and the organizers encourage the public to come to Douglas Park and enjoy the fun.

The Marketplace at the Manistee National Forest Festival promises to offer something for everyone. (File photo)

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Master chainsaw carver Lonnie Glines will offer his works of wood art for sale from 10 a.m. to dusk from July 1-4 at Douglas Park. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

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Flag raising and fireworks show set for July 4 K en Grabowski For the News A dvocate Three things that instantly come to mind for area residents at the mention of the Fourth of July are flag raising, parade and fireworks, which are all a part of the traditional Manistee National Forest Festival. Even though COVID-19 restrictions were lifted recently, there just wasn’t time for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce to put together a parade this year. However, patriotism will still be flying high when the Manistee County United Veterans Council flag raising starts the day on July 4 and the Forest

Festival Fireworks display ends it. United Veterans Council member Keith Graham said that people should note the flag raising on July 4 will be held a little later this year. Normally it takes place right before the parade, but since that will not happen, the flag raising was pushed back 30 minutes this year. “This year we will be holding it at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (on Memorial Drive in Manistee),” said Graham. “We will have the chaplain say a few words and we will raise the flag.” Graham said during an

interview in early June the group was attempting to get someone to sing the national anthem, but if that doesn’t work out they will play “To the Colors” with the bugle that they use to honor veterans at funerals and ceremonies.

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“We are just keeping it simple,” he said. “This year (with COVID) you don’t know what the rules are going to be and you don’t have enough time to plan ahead. The Manistee County United Veterans Council will put it on and have the various veteran groups represented.” It has been a long

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The Fourth of July fireworks will be held over Lake Michigan once again, with viewing from First Street or Fifth Avenue beaches in Manistee. (File photo)

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standing tradition that the various veteran associations show their patriotic pride by leading the parade down River Street. Since there will not be a parade this year, Graham said he hopes the public will come out to watch the flag raising that will take place where the flags are located right on top of the hill at Veterans Memorial Park. A Fourth of July ceremony wouldn’t be complete without a fireworks display, which will be taking place at dusk (around 10 p.m.) at First Street Beach.

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That traditional location is perfect for giving people the opportunity to gain a good view of the fireworks from both the First Street and Fifth Avenue beaches. A spot anywhere near the shoreline allows people to see the show and often people view them from boats out on Lake Michigan. Manistee Area Cham-

ber of Commerce officials are still putting together some of the details, because unlike other years when planning was done for months they were uncertain what COVID-19 restrictions would be in place over the Fourth of July. On June 17, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that gathering and mask restrictions would be lifted starting June 22. Kristina Bajtka, chamber director of communication and Investor Relations, said they again received generous sponsorship for the fireworks from the Little River Casino Resort. “The casino is the sponsor again this year,” said Batjka. “The company we will be using again to shoot them off is Zambelli Fireworks. They will be held in the same spot, but we did not hire DJs to play music at the beaches this year.” What the chamber is looking to do is some form of pre-recorded

music, but that wasn’t definite at of early June. People are encouraged to check the festival website at manisteeforestfestival.com for more information. Chamber officials said people can expect to see the same quality fireworks show that they viewed in the past from Zambelli. “It will be a traditional fireworks show,” said Batjka. With the restrictions recently lifted, capacity in both indoor and outdoor settings were increased to a full 100% allowing people to gather safely outside to view the fireworks. After missing out on a fireworks show last year, the chamber is hoping people will take the time at dusk on July 4 to view the Forest Festival fireworks. They feel fireworks are the perfect way to light up the sky in celebration of America’s continuing success in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

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231-362-3103 The United Veterans Council will hold a flag raising ceremony at 10 a.m. on July 4 at Veterans Memorial Park in Manistee. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

Friends of the Manistee County Library to hold 2-day book sale Kyle Kotecki

have been holding book sales for years — typically several per year — to help the group fund a number of library programs. The group went nearly a year without holding a sale due to the coronavirus pandemic before putting together a $5 book bag sale in January.

kkotecki@pioneergroup.com

The Manistee National Forest Festival offers a little something for everyone — even the bookworms among us. The annual Forest Festival Book Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 2 and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 3. The sale will be held behind the Manistee County Library on the grassy area between the Book House and the parking lot.

Jarvinen said the group is happy to be able to put on a more traditional book sale, be a part of the Forest Festival and raise money to help out the library.

Holding the sale over the course of two days is just one of the precautions the Friends of the Library are implementing to make sure the book sale can be held safely amid the coronavirus pandemic. “We have planned a two-day sale instead of the usual one day to hopefully spread out the crowds and make it safer for everyone,” said Marian Jarvinen, president of the group. “This sale will be an outdoor only sale as the Book House does not have adequate space for the numbers of peo-

The Friends of the Manistee County Library will be holding a two-day book sale event during the Manistee National Forest Festival. The sale will run Friday, July 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, July 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. behind the Manistee County Library on the grassy area between the Book House and the parking lot. (File photo)

ple who come to keep a safe distance.” In addition to books, CDs, DVDs and audio books will also be for sale.

Jarvinen said the offerings will be ever-evolving, so a visit on both days of the sale might be a good idea. “Due to the large amount of material we have, we will be

adding more books as space opens up — especially Saturday morning — so if you come on Saturday there will be fresh choices,” she said. The Friends of the Library

“We are looking forward to seeing everyone again, but if you can’t make it to this sale, we will also be at Bear Lake Days the following Saturday,” she said. “That sale will be in the Bear Lake Library parking lot, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.” Jarvinen said shoppers are encouraged to employ social distancing while thumbing through titles. “While masks are no longer required we hope our customers will respect spacing and try to maintain a bit of distancing between customers,” she said.

Forest Festival | 2021

The Little Big Shots Talent Show will take place from 1-3 p.m. on July 3 at the Lions Pavilion, featuring talent of youngsters throughout the area. Manistee’s own Toni Trucks will be the guest host this year. (File photo)

Music and talent show back in the Forest Festival lineup K en Grabowski For the News A dvocate One of the many things lost for more than a year as a result of the COVID pandemic was the ability for people to gather to enjoy musical and talent-show type performances during festivals. Now that restrictions have been lifted, the Manistee Jaycees will be bringing that opportunity to this area during the Manistee National Forest Festival. Starting at 7 p.m. on July 3, the Jaycees will be hosting the Beach Jam at First Street Beach.

last year where we are going turnout while keeping everyto have the band will be facing one safe. the beach when they per“There were more limitaform.” tions last year, but we felt it Lancour said there will not was just safe to go the same be an admission charge as the route again this year,” she Jaycees are picking up the cost said. “We are right at the and inviting everyone to come beach so people that are down down and enjoy the show. The there earlier in the day can seating area will be out in the just stay and enjoy the music.” beach sand, giving it the feel By having the Beach Jam of a summer concert. as an open event without “There will be no fencing the sale of alcohol makes it and people are welcome to a good family type activity bring their own refreshments and chairs,” said Lancour. “It is a simple event and basically the same as what we did last year. In the past when we did the Beach Bash we had a couple bands and were selling drinks and things like that. So this is more like a jam than the whole big bash.”

where people can bring their children along as well to enjoy the music. “It is more family friendly this way,” Lancour said. Clear Heels is a very talented group of musicians who really offer up music that appeals to a wide age group. Included in their music is songs from the Beatles to the current hits. It also includes all kinds of fun dance and party tunes mixed in.

The Jaycees will cover the cost of the band, but they will have a small donation box to help defray costs. “We are going back to the Roots on the River concerts this year and we have asked for sponsors on that and would hate to ask for more help on the Beach Jam considering what businesses have faced in the last couple of years,” Lancour said.

Continued on Page 12

Another returning event will be the Little Big Shots Talent Show from 1-3 p.m. on July 3 at the Lions Pavilion. Also taking place again after a year layoff due to COVID-19 is the Lancour said they hope that Scottville Clown Band Concert by the time the 2022 Forest that will be held at 3 p.m. on Festival arrives they might be July 5 at the Lions Pavilion at able to return to their former Douglas Park. format. Jaycee member Earlene Lan“We hope as things contincour said the Beach Jam will be similar to the program they ue to life we will be able to go more back to that in the ran last year when COVID-19 limited the event compared to future,” she said. “But for now we are just thankful that we previous years. The popular local band Clear Heels will be can do some form of event for the community in a simple performing. manner that contains safety “They will be playing at regulations.” First Street Beach over next to (beach house),” she said. “We are doing what we did

Lancour said they did pretty well last year in having a good

The Manistee Jaycees are hosting the Beach Jam – featuring local band Clear Heels – starting at 7 p.m. on July 3 at First Street Beach. Bring your own beach chair or blanket for this summer concert. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

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Enjoy the 2021 Manistee National Forest Festival!

The Fourth of July is always a big weekend, even during the pandemic, and the Jaycees are inviting everyone looking for a safe way to enjoy a musical event in a safe venue to check out their Beach Jam. “We think it is going to be a real good time and everyone will have fun and enjoy it,” said Lancour. The Manistee County Blue Tigers are looking for talented youngsters ages 4-16 to take part in “The Little Big Shots Talent Show”. Children who love to sing, dance, recite speeches or poetry or play an instrument are urged to apply. The group is following state COVID-19 guidelines with an outdoor event.

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Shirley Madden, who is coordinating the show, said like all the other events they were waiting to see if COVID-19 guidelines would be lifted enough to hold it. The group held successful shows in 2018 and 2019, but couldn’t do it due to COVID-19 last year. “We were off a whole

year so I am trying to call people and get things together again,” she said. “I am trying to contact students to get them to back to coming to perform. It’s just a challenge right now to get them, but I think it is just worth it for the kids to show their talents.” Manistee’s own, Toni Trucks, will be the guest host this year. “Many of you will remember when Toni was a youngster performing in programs in the Manistee Area Public Schools,” said Madden in an email. “Toni is now a permanent member of CBS Seal Team which (first) aired Sept. 27, 2017.” The show was growing in popularity each year prior to the pandemic. Madden hopes they can get that momentum going again. “I am hoping people will respond and let the children come out,” said Madden. “I just feel it is so important for children to display the gifts they have been given.” Madden said schools have cut back in the arts programs over the past several years and shows like this one give the

children the opportunity to show their talents. “That is one of the reasons we do this show is to let those students talents been seen,” she said. The Scottville Clown Band Concert will feature all the antics and great music in the concert. No sale of alcohol will take place and people are asked to bring their own refreshments and chairs to sit on and to social distance just like they are asking for the Beach Jam. Known affectionately as “The Big Noise from Scottville”, the band really gets toes tapping and people on their feet. Band members are always decked out in colorful attire and are well known for their antics. Band members come from all over Michigan and over 14 other states, from California, Tennessee, Florida and even New York to perform throughout the summer in Michigan. The members are a very diverse group, some doctors, firemen, police officers, bankers and Realtors.

at the 2021

Manistee National Forest Festival!

The Scottville Clown Band will return once again to the Manistee National Forest Festival, with a performance slated for 3 p.m. on July 5 at the Lions Pavilion at Douglas Park. (Courtesy photo/David Navadeh)

Forest Festival | 2021

Forest Festival brings Michigan carnival to join the lineup A rielle Breen

arielle.breen@pioneergroup.com

Peggy Anderson was basically born into the carnival business, and she is bringing the carnival to Manistee once again for the Manistee National Forest Festival next month. Anderson is the owner of the Standish-based Anderson Midways Carnival, and she said her parents started in the business when she was 3 years old. According to the carnival’s website, “the family of Anderson Midways has been in the amusement industry since 1967.” “Anderson Midways was previously a part of Schmidt Amusements, however, as our families have grown throughout the years, it was time to begin our new tradition,” reads part of the website’s description of the family’s work in carnivals. “Our family owned and operated company services fairs, festivals, church and school fundraisers, and much more.”

Continued on Page 16

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The Manistee National Forest Festival’s carnival visitors can look forward to a merry-go-round, ferris wheel, possibly a Hurricane or Tornado ride, a children’s train, a Paratrooper ride, a super slide and others. (File photo)

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Forest Festival | 2021

Manistee museum has ‘refreshing’ take on popular culture for Forest Fest A rielle Breen

istee’s past. Fedder said the exhibit has also focused on automobiles, local pharmacies, resorts and the area’s distinctive lumbering era influences.

arielle.breen@pioneergroup.com

The Manistee County Historical Museum may have a tough time keeping up once Manistee National Forest Festivalgoers learn that its new exhibit also features playable arcade games.

“We always think about the way, way back (and I thought) how about just the way back? How about just 30, 40 years ago (and) how things have changed so much since then?” Fedder said of the current exhibit.

Mark Fedder, executive director of the museum, created the Totally Awesome Popular Culture in Manistee in the 1980s exhibit that showcases the music, video, games and toys in an attempt to encompass the vibe of the time period.

Mock ups of records, actual cassette tapes and VHS tapes that were popular from the time period, photos from plays that were being performed in Manistee at the time, and common books and toys from the 1980s will be part of the The Totally Awesome Popular Culture in Manistee in the 1980s exhibit showcases the music, video, games and toys in an attempt to encompass the vibe of the time period. (Courtesy photo/Mark Fedder) exhibit.

Fedder said he has been working on the exhibit off and on for about a month and a half. “I wanted to hit up video rental stores and music, some civic players at the Ramsdell (Theatre) what they were doing, the Vogue (Theatre) and the arcade that used to be here and there’s 1980s toys and (other) stuff all popular culture related,” Fedder said.

Fedder said this exhibit is also somewhat nostalgic for him as he grew up in 1980s in the area.

He said he is focusing on video stores, playable arcade games, music and toys from the era. “I kind of got the idea several years ago; there were kids here visiting with their parents and they didn’t know how the rotary phone worked,” he said. “I had to show them how it worked and I was thinking about how the things that were so common to us years and years ago — kids don’t know how they work anymore. … I thought that could be said for (the ‘80s too).” In 2019, the museum’s exhibit centered on 150 years of Manistee’s history using a large number of archival photos from Man-

“The main thing was to have fun. I thought this would be a good time to do that with everything that’s gone on. And honestly, it’s been kind of refreshing to do something that’s from my childhood,” Fedder said. He said this exhibit is a contrast to the usual exhibits from the 19th century and early 20th century. “It’s been kind of refreshing to change it up a little bit,” Fedder said. The exhibit opens July 1 and is available through October from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

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Forest Festival | 2021

Make Some Great Memories at the Manistee Forest Festival From the Hybza Family

A kickoff to fourth of July weekend festivities will take place at the Wagoner Community Center, located at 260 St. Mary’s Parkway. (File photo)

Forest Festival kickoff party to benefit Wagoner Community Center Scott Fraley

Scott.fraley@pioneergroup.com

A July 1 party at the new Wagoner Community Center is shaping up to be a lively kickoff to this year’s Forest Festival celebrations. Hosted by the Manistee County Council on Aging, this event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a concert from 7-9 p.m. later that day. Catering the event is Jerry Zupin and his crew, who will be serving up a hearty meal of chicken and bratwurst, with all the trimmings -- and strawberry shortcake for dessert. Entertainment will be provided by Virgil “Butch” Baker and his Just 4 Fun

Band. Known for their toe-tapping polka music, this local act has been a Manistee County mainstay for decades. Featured musician, Cousin Curtiss will take the stage starting at 7 p.m. Called a “one man band,” Curtiss will perform a full two-hour set of songs blending folk, bluegrass and blues. While the council on aging has hosted Fourth of July events before, this will be a first for at the new senior center building. “We haven’t done a big kickoff here at the Wagoner Center,” said executive director, Sarah Howard. “I thought it would be fun to have the community come and

hang out … and see what we’re doing here.” The event will take place outdoors at 260 St. Mary’s Parkway in Manistee. Any CDC mandated COVID-19 precautions will be observed.

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All admission fees, raffle funds and donations will go to benefit ongoing renovations at the community center. “We have some great raffle prizes and most of all, we will have all of you who will be here having a great time with us,” Howard wrote in her weekly News Advocate column. “I can’t wait to see all of you after such a long time.” Contact the senior center by dialing (231) 723-6461 for admissions information.

A 1920’s design railroad car ferry and a World War 2 era Bouy tender. Take a tour or book a overnight stay.

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www.carferry.com Virgil “Butch” Baker (pictured) and his Just 4 Fun Band will perform July 1 at the Wagoner Community Center. Cousin Curtiss will later take the stage at 7 p.m. (File photo)

Forest Festival | 2021

Celebrating Manistee’s Festival Queens Mark Fedder Manistee County Historical Museum

When the Forest Festival was changed to the National Strawberry Festival in 1966, a Miss Manistee County and National Strawberry Queen Pageant was organized which gave the ladies in the pageant the opportunity to compete for the Miss Michigan crown as well as have the chance to be crowned Miss America.

The history of Manistee’s festival queens goes back to at least 1930 when 18-year-old Signe Holmer of Manistee was crowned Miss Manistee during the Miss Manistee Pageant. As a part of winning the title she was able to be a representative in the Cherry Festival Queen Pageant and was later crowned Cherry Festival Queen. A Miss Manistee was crowned for the next five subsequent years while also being designated a representative of Manistee County in the Cherry Festival Queen Pageant. During the planning for the first Forest Festival in 1936, the organizers decided that the queen pageant had been overdone in other festivals and would not be included in the new Forest Festival. The organizers instead crowned a Brethren girl, named Irene Pete, as an Indian Princess named Princess Wabisheshikwe In 1941 the first Forest Festival Pageant was held with Arcadia’s Donna Martineau crowned queen. When the effects of WWII were felt in Manistee, it put a damper on the festival

A list of Miss Manistee County and the National Strawberry Queens follows: Susan Stevenson (1966), Penny Pennell (1967), Cindy Ferguson (1968), Julie Benish (1969), Karol Carlson (1970), Betsy Iverson (1971), Nancy Erdmann (1972), Joan Gardner (1973), Laura Seutter (1974), Kim Bennett (1975), Jean Krusniak (National Miss Manistee County & National Strawberry Queen 1973, Joan Gardner (right) crowns Miss Manistee County & National Strawberry Queen 1974, Lau- Strawberry Queen 1976), Amy ra Seutter (left), during the 1974 Miss Manistee County & National Strawberry Gamache (Miss Manistee 1976). Queen Pageant. (Courtesy photo/Manistee County Historical Museum)

and it wasn’t until 1951 that it started up again. Once the festival finally resumed, a local pageant was held for women who were chosen to be Manistee’s pepresentative in the Cherry Festival.

The title of Miss Manistee was added to the Forest Festival crown in 1962 with Joanne Knight crowned Miss Manistee and Karen Orsick reigning over the Forest Festival of that year.

The Forest Festival Queen Pageant was then held off and on again during the late 1950s until finally resuming in 1961 when Bonnie Brunais was crowned Forest Festival Queen.

The other women to be named Miss Manistee and Forest Festival Queen were: Sally Smith (1963), Mary Jeruzal (1964) and Christie Raatz (1965).

Another unique and important part of the National Strawberry Festival was the inclusion of the National Strawberry Migrant Queen which began in 1966. Lali Acuna soon became chairwoman for the Migrant Queen Pageant, and she singlehandedly went around to the various migrant camps throughout the county and got the local migrant girls involved in the pageant. The ladies who were crowned

Continued from Page 13

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She said Anderson Midways stays in Michigan for carnivals around the state like the Gizzard Fest in Potterville and the Water Festival in Three Rivers.

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But the pandemic has also shifted the demand and staffing situation for many carnivals in the state including Anderson Midways.

In 1977, the National Strawberry Festival was changed back to the Forest Festival as was the title of the queen pageant switched back to Forest Festival Queen. The queens crowned during the late 1970s were Janice Van Liere (1977), Jenny DeRosia (1978), and Shelayne Walters (1979). While plans for the local pageant had fallen apart during the early 1980s, during the middle part of the decade a Miss Manistee Victorian Village pageant was held for at least two years in 1986 and 1987. In the late 1980s the Forest Festival Queen title resumed to include Amy Pierson (1988) and Gwendolyn Hermes (1989) as the last festival queens. Even though the chapter on Manistee’s festival queens may be a small section in Manistee County’s extensive history book, it is a fun chapter as well as a celebratory reminder of these women and their accomplishments.

forward to a merry-go-round, ferris wheel, possibly a Hurricane or Tornado ride, a children’s train, a Paratrooper ride, a super slide and others. Anderson said there will be corn dogs, hot dogs, Polish sausage, cotton candy, caramel apples, fresh squeezed lemonade, elephant ears, pizza, fresh cut french fries and chicken strips. For the games component, she said there will be balloon break, Kiddie Hi Striker, a machine gun and others. Anderson said COVID-19 safety measures will also be in place.

“We are running on a skeleton crew right now, which means we have less equipment out because we don’t have anybody to operate our equipment,” she said. “Staffing is in high demand, very high.”

“We have hand sanitizer (stations) at every ride and all the foods,” she said. “We have signs out that say (people should practice) social distancing, keep 6 feet apart (when) not with your party.”

While the need for staffing is high, she said the demand for the carnival has remained about the same or a little higher — but it has changed in terms of which entities are requesting the carnival come to town.

Anderson asked that if visitors are not vaccinated, they keep 6 feet of distance from others and to wear a mask.

“It has been a little bit higher. Some places have just canceled (events) again for 2021. But then there’s also other people looking to book us for 2021. So it’s both,” Anderson said.

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National Strawberry Migrant Queen were: Maria Del Jesus Gonzales (1966), Annie Guiterrez (1967), Delfina Velencia (1968), Cindy Garcia (1969), Socorito Reyes (1970), Virginia Rios (1971), Irma Mendoza (1972).

The Anderson Midway Carnival is set to go from noon to dusk at Douglas Park from July 1-4. The carnival is offering rides, games and food. Anderson said visitors can look

She said carnival staff are not planning to wear face masks as all employees are vaccinated. “Keep in mind that we are short staffed, so please be patient. We’re working as fast as we can to help them,” she said. More information on the carnival details can be found online at andersonmidways.com. Anyone 18 and older who is seeking to join the carnival can find an application on the Anderson Midways website.

Forest Festival | 2021

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Forest Festival | 2021

The formation of the first Forest Festival Mark Fedder Manistee County Historical Museum Whenever a particular milestone (i.e. a birthday or anniversary) is reached it is often customary to reminisce and recall the origins of the thing we are celebrating. With that said, this celebrates the 85th anniversary of the first Manistee National Forest Festival which began when a group of like-minded individuals decided to do something different than what had always been done before. Summer festivals have had a long, storied history with the city of Manistee. Beginning in the late 19th century, the main summer festival was called “Homecoming” as it was not only meant to celebrate the Fourth of July but for the purpose of welcoming former residents who had moved away back to Manistee. In conjunction with the Homecoming was a typical array of summer festivities which included dances, picnics and a parade. In the summer of 1935, the Homecoming Festival included a tour of the Manistee National Forest as well as a parade that included numerous Forest Service exhibits. With this aspect of the Homecoming deemed successful, it was decided that the next year’s summer celebration would be changed to a forest theme and would center on the Manistee National Forest Purchase Unit which was established in 1933.

The first Manistee National Forest Festival took place in July 1936. Crowds gather to watch the Grand Parade on July 4 near the corner near the corner of River and Poplar Streets. (Courtesy photo/ Manistee County Historical Museum)

“Yesterday’s meeting of a small group of interested persons was preliminary to the formation of a Forest Festival Corporation, in which will be represented every organization in the city.

honorary president, Harold Hill, the first vice president; Ted Brown the second vice president; Ewald Pfeiffer, secretary and George Kruse as treasurer.

Princess of the festival. While Wabisheshikwe was originally used as marketing ploy in order to promote the Forest Festival, it was later deemed that since the festival was to stress the old time lumbering days (with less emphasis on the modern world) the edict was put out that there would be no Festival Queen because, “… Manistee’s celebration would gain distinction by eliminating a queen and concentrating on the Indian Princess who would be truly symbolical of the entire Festival theme.”

Likewise, several committees were formed to aid “Work on the Festival will in the planning of the new start at once, allowing suffi- festival. The committees cient opportunity to secure included: a Planning Compart of the necessary funds mittee, Publicity Director, months before the event. Special Housing CommitAn article published on tee, Auditing Committee July 11, 1935 (just mere days Benefit performances, and Finance Committee. after that year’s Homecom- dances, keno games, some held under the auspices of The Forest Festival Corpoing Festival) explains the the Festival Corporation ration as well the commitformation of a new festival and others under cooptees also partnered with corporation. Portions of the erating groups have been representatives from local original article follow: advanced as a means of organizations and businessThe listing of events and “From the rich, historic raising at least $1,000 in es to assist in the celebraactivities that took place background of its early preliminary financing eftion plans. (on July 2-5) during the first lumbering days and the forts before April or May of festival is exhaustive but Over the months, donapromise held for future next year. Full cooperation included: the dedication tions were sought through forest development through of the U.S. Forest Service of Chittenden Nursery, letters sent to chain orgathe Manistee National Forhas been assured.” an Indian Tepee Village nizations and firms that est, the city and county of displayed near the ManAdditionally, it was also serviced local retailers. Manistee will draw material istee River Channel, naval noted that the creation Other monies were donated for an annual Forest Festival training ships on display of the Manistee National through individuals and that will rival any celebrain the channel, the corForest Festival, “… is an businesses and as the goal tion in Michigan, according onation baseball games, attempt to bring back the of $6,000 neared its mark, to plans formulated yestera Michigna State Police glamour and the color of the local factories blew their day afternoon by a group Exhibit at Rotary Hall, local the lumbering times, to whistles every time $500 of local men meeting in historical displays, forest show the region as a sumwas donated. the forest ranger’s office in fire demonstrations, an mer playground, and to the federal building. The As is the tradition with Ottawa ceremonial dance, a focus attention on the defestival, it is planned, will many area festivals, the grand parade with 75 floats, velopment due in this part supplant the annual Fourth topic of selecting a queen banquets, bands, log rolling of the state as the result of of July Homecoming, alto lord over the festivities contests and more. federal and state programs though old-timers will be was a brought up during the stressing conservation, recOn July 6, 1936 the first invited back to attend each early stages of planning. In reation and reforestation.” Manistee National Forest year, it will be national in November 1935, a 20-yearscope, the first effort of its On July 15, 1935, the Forold Ottawa woman, named Festival was deemed a rousing success with over 50,000 kind in the world to center est Festival Corporation was Wabisheshikwe, who lived attention upon the rebuild- officially organized with in the lower camp in Breth- people in attendance. The ing of the nation’s forest Tom Hauck named presiren near the Manistee River, Forest Festival continued to resources. dent; Harry Musselwhite as was appointed as Indian be the city’s summer festival

for the next several years but was later changed to the Sports Festival in the 1950s. After reverting to the Forest Festival again, the summer fete was changed to the National Strawberry Festival in 1966. Finally, in 1977, it was switched once again to the Manistee National Forest Festival where it continues to be celebrated each Fourth of July holiday.

“From the rich, historic background of its early lumbering days and the promise held for future forest development through the Manistee National Forest, the city and county of Manistee will draw material for an annual Forest Festival that will rival any celebration in Michigan.”

Forest Festival | 2021