2018 Sleighbell by Hearst Midwest

VICTORIAN SLEIGHBELL PARADE

& OLD CHRISTMAS WEEKEND ~~ 2018 2017 ~~

A Supplement To The

The crowd follows the massive Christmas tree each year down River Street for caroling before the tree is lit. (News Advocate File Photo)

Manistee tradition continues into its 30th year By Rachel Brooks Sleighbell Committee Chair

It has been a Manistee tradition to greet the days of winter with bright lights and an old fashioned, genuinely Victorian Christmas. This year marks the 30 anniversary of the Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend.

to our corporate and small business sponsors, the Sleighbell committee The Victorian Sleighbell Parade was able is again the centerpiece of the to bring back the the weekend. For 2018, the BROOKS weekend opens on Thursday, warming tent Dec. 6 and concludes in the located on the corner of River afternoon of Sunday, Dec. 9 and Oak streets and fireworks with the parade starting at following the carolers, who 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 welcome the great tree at the down River Street. end of River Street. As always horses will be out The entire Old Christmas in full force on Saturday -including carriage and wagon Weekend is filled with lovely rides in the afternoon and the events including the Festival beloved horse team that pulls of Trees, the "Nutcracker the 30 foot upright Christmas Ballet" at the Ramsdell tree down River Street. Thanks Regional Center for the Arts,

Downtown Manistee is decorated to the nines for the holidays each year. (News Advocate File Photo)

guided tours of the Dempsey Manor and displays of Manistee's Victorian era at the Manistee County Historical Museum. Children can enjoy Santa Headquarters, meet the Grinch, grab a cup of cocoa and decorate cookies to snack on. Manistee is a wonderful place to pick up gifts for everyone on your list, catch a show at

the historic Vogue Theatre or simply enjoy the magical experience of the beautifully decorated historic downtown. On behalf of the Sleighbell committee, we welcome visitors and local community members to enjoy all of the Sleighbell weekend festivities and we wish everyone a warm, safe and Merry Christmas.

SLEIGHBELL â&#x20AC;˘ Manistee News Advocate â&#x20AC;˘ December 2018

The 2017 Sleighbell Downtown Soup Cookoff was a hit, and businesses were able to serve up gallons of samples. (News Advocate File Photo)

Sleighbell's Downtown Soup Cook-off a local tradition in Manistee By Ashlyn Korienek Staff Writer

While the frigid, icy weather pushes through Northwest Michigan in December, residents bundle up to take part in recreational outdoor activities and afterward, of course, most are ready to enjoy classic hot foods and beverages. In Manistee, the Downtown Soup Cook-off — held as part

of the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend slated for Dec. 6-9 — is a popular event that allows residents and visitors to warm up from the cold weather, and try out original soup recipes. Thousands of people enjoy the Sleighbell weekend each year, and many head

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

to downtown Manistee on Friday, Dec. 7, for the soup cook-off.

everybody downtown," she said. "It brings people into the stores, and it's warm, fun and busy — I love it. Since we are Shelley Doyan, owner of The Ideal Kitchen of Manistee, who foodies, we are all about soup cook-offs." sponsors the cook-off, said the event is a fun way to bring This year, the soup cook-off will be held from 4:30-6:30 people to the downtown area, in what is a huge holiday p.m., and has 13 stops planned at local downtown celebration. "It's a fun event, and gets

See SOUP on page 22

Bob and Jan Kenny serve up some tasty chestnuts at the Sleighbell Parade. (News Advocate File Photo)

Roasting chestnuts is a Sleighbell Parade custom By Ken Grabowski Associate Editor

Kendra Thompson can't help but laugh at the memory of how she first got started roasting chestnuts 26 years ago for the Victorian Sleighbell Parade. “Back in 1990 the parade was an event of the Uniqueness Committee,” said Thompson. “I was very active in that committee in my circle of friends, and it was just natural to want to be a part of it." Thompson said the focus of the Uniqueness Committee as part of the Manistee Area Chamber

of Commerce at that time was to promote the natural and historic resources of the community. Every Sleighbell Parade event was designed to be a part of that unique experience or taking a step back in time. “My husband and I got looked at by the other committee members back then and asked why don’t you guys roast some chestnuts?” said Thompson. “The rest is history. The first few years the chestnut roasting was sponsored by the Uniqueness Committee, but for years now it

has been sponsored by my firm, memory of that first year Kendra Thompson Architects.” as they came in not really knowing what goes into One thing that people attending the Sleighbell Parade roasting chestnuts. can count on is the location of the grills has remained constant. “We always do the one on the corner of River and Maple streets, then in front of The Outpost, River Street Station and in front of Dr. Gardin’s office,” said Thompson. “It seems to work well that way as there are two on the north side of River Street and two on the south side and they are staggered.” But Thompson smiles at the

“In the early years we would get them through Oleson grocery store and they were an Italian chestnut,” said Thompson. "They are bigger, but not as flavorful.” Thompson laughed saying she never thought in her lifetime she would become a chestnut connoisseur. “We used those for about five years before a gentleman named Bruce Smith from Grant, who ran a chestnut farm called Angling Farms, approached us,” said Thompson.

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

Smith grows a Chinese Chestnut that is a little smaller in size than the Italian ones and much sweeter. He sells the Thompsons about 200 hundred pounds every year. She said Port City Organics also sells the same brand they use every year. They purchase all the chestnuts on their own as a gift to the event and the people. Preparing them to grill entails a very simple process, and Thompson pointed out they can actually be eaten raw. “We have to put a little split in each chestnut or they will explode,” she said. “Sometimes they will still pop on the grill, but that is all you have to do with them, and in a few minutes they are ready.” The chestnut roasting quickly caught on with all of Thompson’s friends as well. Many of them have been doing it right along with the Thompsons for many years. “I have friends from back in college, Phil Hill and Perry Sauter who people think they are from Manistee because they come and roast chestnuts every year at The Outpost location,” said Thompson. She said there have been several different people who

have manned the other locations over the years. “Roger and Karen Bruchan were pretty regular and now my brother and sister-in-law plug into where they are as will my son. Karen and Roger Asiala have done it for several years as did Jan and Bob Kenny,” she said. What she also finds unique about doing it for so many years is the faces that they see every year. Some of them started coming as little kids and now they bring their own children. Thompson said those reactions are the payback for doing it every year. “We are just happy the people are here and enjoying the community,” she said.

Mike and Kedra Thompson have been preparing the roasted chestnuts for the past 26 years at Vicorian Sleighbell Parade. (News Advocate File Photo)

One thing she said that hasn’t changed is the spirit of the people who have worked on the parade and Old Christmas Weekend. It is positive and upbeat, and shows the community in a very good light. They plan to be back at it for another year. Thompson said she, her husband and friends and family want the chestnut tradition to continue for many years to come.

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Manistee County Historical Museum's Christmas exhibit this year focuses on the Victorian era, including showcasing clothing worn during that period. (Michelle Graves/News Advocate)

The Manistee County Historical Museum is all decked out for Christmas, with decorations reminiscent of the Victorian era. (Courtesy photo)

Musems offer look at Victorian, Scandinavian holiday practices By Ken Grabowski Associate Editor

The Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend is all about tradition so it is only natural that the Manistee County Historical Museum would have a display focusing on those things from this area. Over the years, museum executive director Mark Fedder and his volunteers have presented many exhibits during the holidays that show the various heritages and customs of the people of Manistee County. Each one is unique in that they bring to life through exhibits, stories and pictures the way people from this area celebrated Christmas in the past.

the historic buildings that line the River Street area. It will also feature some of the unique homes scattered among the the City of Manistee that were built during that era by some of the lumber barons and other early leaders of the community.

"This year we are going to do an exhibit of a Victorian Christmas," said Fedder. "We thought that it would be interesting to bring that out and remind people what the Victorian age was and why it is Fedder said the Victorian era isn't only represented so important to Manistee." in the exhibit in the form of Fedder said the Victorian era buildings and architecture. played a major role in the There also will be exhibits history of Manistee and its showing how Christmas was legacy lives on to this day in celebrated at that time and many areas of the community. how families lived their lives. "We plan to educate "We also plan to have displays people about the Victorian talking about and showing architecture we have here in the clothing that was worn at Manistee and much more," that time and the etiquette said Fedder. that existed at that time That would include many of

and how it differed from the

things of today," said Fedder. "We just thought it was time to do an exhibit like this one again to remind people about Manistee's unique Victorian heritage." One of the challenges of an exhibit like this one is to encompass all of the things that came out of that era, but Fedder said they will do their best to give a flavor of many different aspects of it. "There is a lot of it, so we plan to do a little bit of everything with artifacts, exhibits and things of that nature," said Fedder. "It will all be in the lower level in the museum." He said that people should note they will be open extra hours with the exhibit during

SLEIGHBELL â&#x20AC;˘ Manistee News Advocate â&#x20AC;˘ December 2018

the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend to allow the public to view it.

the sesquicentennial year of the oldest Danish Lutheran Church in America. The event is free to the public.

"We will be holding our regular hours during the month of December and will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year's Eve and New Year's Day," said Fedder. "Our regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m." Fedder invites the public to come down and view the exhibit which will be both informative and entertaining. Those who take the time to view it will have a better understanding of what life was like during the holidays in Manistee during the Victorian era. Manistee is rich is history from many ethnic

The sanctuary of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church will have a Christmas tree representing each of the Scandinavian countries decorated in the traditional manner of each country during its Scandinavian Christmas Open House. (Courtesy photo)

backgrounds including a strong Scandinavian one. The opportunity to see what a Scandinavian Christmas looked like will present itself from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 8 and Nov. 9 at the Old

Kirke Museum, located at 304 Walnut St. There will be a Scandinavian Christmas Open House and the chance to enjoy cookies and refreshments to conclude the celebration of

The sanctuary of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church will have a Christmas tree representing each of the Scandinavian countries — Denmark, Sweden and Norway — decorated in the traditional manner of each country. Scandinavian cookies will be served alongside Danish Jule Aften plates, a tradition since the 19th century it became customary at Christmastime for the wealthy to give their servants platters piled high with good things to eat. For more information, contact oldkirkemuseum@gmail.com.

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SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

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Festive kids events planned for Sleighbell Weekend By Ashlyn Korienek

Staff Writer

SATURDAY During the 30th annual Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend Manistee's streets will become a winter wonderland, stepping back in time with traditional festivities and fun family events. The festival, which is slated for Dec. 6-9, features many new and recurring activities for kids to enjoy. Many of the kids events held last year were a hit with families, and several organizations decided to expand their ideas.

• Parents and Paint from 10 a.m. to noon, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St.

Santa Claus' headquarters were filled with plenty of eager kids during the 2017 Sleighbell weekend. This year, Santa will make a stop at a few places in town. (News Advocate File Photo)

The schedule of kids activities for the 2018 Sleighbell weekend is as follows:

FRIDAY • Cookie Fun For Everyone from 1–6 p.m., United Methodist Church, 387 First St. This event features a variety of Christmas cutout cookies, which are pre-baked and ready to decorate. Frosting and sprinkles are provided, and the mess will be cleaned up afterward by event organizers.

A child decorates a cookie at the 2017 United Methodist Church Sleighbell event "Cookie Fun For Everyone." (News Advocate File Photo)

said last year, events like it was so much fun," she said. canvas painting and cupcake Watson guides everyone decorating filled up fast, so through a holiday themed they had to amp up class sizes. masterpiece. The cost for "We have moved them admission includes supplies Eat the cookies or have them down to the classrooms and instructions. wrapped as a gift. There is a at the Ramsdell Regional cost for a dozen and a half "They get to learn how Center for the Arts so we can dozen cookies. All of the to decorate six different accommodate as many as we proceeds benefit Manistee cupcake designs just like County Habitat for Humanity. can," Wehrmeister said. the professionals, making a • Kids and Kupkakes from 6:30- This holiday event, holiday memory with their Wehrmeister said, invites 7:45 pm, Ramsdell Theatre, parent or grandparent," said families to bring their children Wehrmeister. "All the supplies 101 Maple St. or grandchildren to decorate and step-by-step instruction Sherri Wehrmeister, who cupcakes with culinary artist are included and they get to serves on the Manistee Connie Watson. take them all home to show County Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, "I took my niece last year and off and share."

Artist Tami Lee Roth of "A Touch of Color" returns this year to teach this class, said Wehrmeister. There is a cost to attend. Register for this class online at www. manisteechamber.com. "Roth is a former school teacher that makes painting creative, fun and keeps everyone on task," Wehrmeister said. "This year's painting will be on a pallet with all supplies and instruction included, along with cookies and hot chocolate." • Meet and Greet with Santa Claus from noon until 2 p.m., Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts ballroom, 101 Maple St. This event is free, and children can get their picture taken with Saint Nicholas himself, while enjoying a cookie, cup of hot chocolate and a small token. "It was added after the brochure was printed, so we're having to spread the word on our own," said Wehrmeister. "Alliance Beverage, Boyer Insurance Agency, Family Fare and Watson's Manistee Chrysler are sponsoring the refreshments from Family Fare and Goodies Juice and Java." • Cookie Fun For Everyone from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., United

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

Methodist Church, 387 First St. Festival attendees have another chance to decorate cookies at United Methodist Church, with frosting and sprinkles provided. All proceeds directly benefit Manistee County Habitat for Humanity.

him in. Even the adults like to see Grinch." • Santa’s Headquarters from 1-3:45 p.m., Manistee Marina, 460 River St.

Santa Claus himself is going to be in attendance for photos, and to receive Christmas lists from children. Other activities • Cocoa, Cookies, and Crafts include Mr. Balloon Man — from 11a.m. to 12 p.m., Don Olszewski — and face Farmers Insurance of Manistee paining by Debbie Tiefenthal. 320 1st St. Santa leaves promptly at 4 p.m. to line up for the parade. Members of the public are invited to drink hot cocoa, This event is sponsored by decorate a cookie to eat and Randy Zakrajsek from RE/MAX. make a festive holiday craft to • Love for Children and take home. The event is free, Chocolate from 11 a.m. to 5 and invites members of the p.m., Christian Faith Church public to get out of the cold International, 55 Division St. and spend time with family. This event features a • Meet the Grinch from chocolate shoppe and free noon to 1 p.m., Happy Owl A Christmas elf paints a child's face during the 2017 Santa Claus meet and greet photos with none other event. (News Advocate File Photo) Bookstore, 358 River St.; and than the Grinch, "who stole from 1-3 p.m. Christmas." At this event, children are SUNDAY invited to meet the Grinch • Santa’s Headquarters from himself. Then, attendees are 1-4pm, Manistee Marina, 460 able to make a craft, play a game and there will be prizes River St. and treats. Children have another chance

Happy Holidays

"We had a great success with it in the last couple of years," said Pat Sagala, store manager. "Since the Vogue Theatre does 'The Grinch' movie on that day, it was a great day to bring

to meet Santa Claus and his elves at the city Marina. This is sponsored by Randy Zakrajsek from RE/MAX. Santa’s Headquarters is also open Dec 15, 16, 22 and 23.

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There will be tables and tables of chocolates for people to purchase during the Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend at the Chocolate Shoppe. (News Advocate File Photo)

Chocolate Shoppe raises funds for Child Advocacy Center By Ken Grabowski Associate Editor

The holidays are all about tasty, sweet treats and one place where they will be in abundance during the Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend is at the Sleighbell Chocolate Shoppee.

Church International (former Eagles Club), located at 55 Division St.

This annual fundraising event is sponsored by the Manistee Child Advocacy Center and will take place this year from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Christian Faith

Manistee Child Advocacy Center director Cindy Rozmarek said that they plan on having plenty tasty chocolate items on sale that day.

All proceeds will benefit services for young victims of abuse and neglect in Manistee and Mason counties.

One of the best places to get some tasty chocolate holiday treats and help a good cause in the process is at the Sleighbell Chocolate Shoppee. This annual fundraising event is sponsored by the Manistee Child Advocacy Center and will take place this year from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Christian Faith Church International (former Eagles Club), located at 55 Division St.

SLEIGHBELL â&#x20AC;˘ Manistee News Advocate â&#x20AC;˘ December 2018

"Almost all of what we sell is made by individuals and we sell it as a fundraiser," said Rozmarek. "Some people are very creative in what they do. We have had little snowmen, cute little Christmas suckers and a little of everything." Rozmarek said lots of people love to pick up some of the chocolate items to eat as they walk around town.

that building, so people don't have to worry about walking down steps," said Rozmarek. She said organizers also hope to educate the public on the important role the Child Advocacy Center plays in the community.

"With these events we try to increase people's knowledge of what we do at the Child Advocacy Center and the "Others buy them as gifts for services we provide to Christmas as stocking stuffers children who have been or just to have around at sexually abused and their that time of the year," said families, as it is not just the Rozmarek. child that is affected," said Over the past several years Rozmarek. "We need money they have changed locations a from fundraising events to couple of times and Rozmarek continue to do the work we reminds everyone it might be do. We do get grant money, a new location, but it is the but they have specific same quality type chocolates. purposes for what they can be "We will be on the first floor of used."

SLEIGHBELL â&#x20AC;˘ Manistee News Advocate â&#x20AC;˘ December 2018

All the money raised from the Sleighbell Chocolate Shoppe goes to benefit the Child Advocacy Center which assists children who have been victims of abuse. (News Advocate File Photo)

The need is great according to Rozmarek, and in 2018 they have already interviewed more than 50 children for cases. "Our numbers have drastically increased and every year they

go up," said Rozmarek. "Part of that is awareness, but it also is the need is there for it. So we just hope people will come out and support the Child Advocacy Center at this fundraiser."

The massive Christmas tree pulled by a team of horses has become a time-honored tradition of the Victorian Sleighbell Parade, and continues to be a crowd favorite year after year. (News Advocate File Photo)

Sleighbell tree to continue as parade highlight By Jane Bond Staff Writer

Several thousand people gather on River Street each year to watch the Victorian Sleighbell Parade, with marching bands and horse drawn carriages for all to enjoy as well as many children hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa. One of the most impressive sights is the Christmas tree that serves as the finale for the parade each year, towering over most of the downtown buildings as a team of horses pull it down River Street. Rachel Brooks, parade

organizer, said the tree is a highlight and a tradition of the parade, which will take place downtown at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. Jeff Mikula, utility director for the City of Manistee Department of Public Works, said the process of selecting the tree begins months before the parade. “Usually people call in throughout the year and offer to donate a tree," he said. "We compile a list throughout the year, then we go out and look for one that’s approximately

the proper size, shape and in a safe location to get a crane in and out." He said the tree selected this year is 35 feet tall, and was donated by Lighthouse Landings Condominiums. "Lighthouse Landings donated last year’s tree and they are donating it again this year," said Mikula. "It’s a good location for us because they’re landscaping trees, they are a good shape to use and it’s easy access for us with no overhead lines." Mikula said several local businesses assisted with cutting down and transporting the tree.

“Zupin Crane has donated their services to pick up the tree, then we cut it and set it on a semi trailer," he said. "Swidorski Trucking donated their services to haul it for us." The tree is transported to a location near the start of the parade route, and is decorated by city employees to prepare for the weekend festivities. While the tree is considered by many to be the grand finale of the parade, there will be plenty more to see. Brooks said there are between 45 to 50 entries this year. “Some other highlights are always the bagpipers and marching bands, and we have several horse and carriage

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

entries as well as alpacas,” she said. “We had the alpacas last year and they are coming back this year, the kids always love to see them.” The parade concludes in downtown’s west end near the fountain with community caroling and lighting of the tree. There will also be a fireworks display, which Brooks said is returning after a two year hiatus. “We had fireworks in the past but due to a new housing development we couldn’t do them where we normally had them,” she said. “This year we found a new location that is close to the parade and will be having them again.” Brooks said there will be a delay between the end of the parade and the start of the fireworks show for the safety of animals in the parade. “We do have to wait for all of the animals to clear the area before we light them off so it does take a bit of time before we start lighting them off,” she said. One of the most impressive sights of the parade is seeing River Street packed with people of all ages, all getting in the spirit of the holiday

Victorian Sleighbell Parade organizer Rachel Brooks said the alpacas are always a hit with children watching the parade, and will be returning this year. (News Advocate File Photo)

season. “Last year the Manistee (Department of Public Works) did a count and they estimated that approximately 20,000 people were downtown for the parade,” she said. “Since it’s our 30th anniversary and we have been in several magazine publications as a Christmas destination I think we’re going to have even more this year.”

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2018 Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend schedule Victorian cookies and wassail reception after. Tickets are available at Goody’s or call (231) 723-7536.

cookies. Cookies, frosting and sprinkles provided; buy them by the dozen or half dozen.

Art Exhibit, Hardy Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. In celebration of Glenn and Pat Lottie’s enthusiasm, and to honor the late Pat Lottie, Glenn Lottie has put together this stunning display of artwork that represents some of the depth and diversity of our own Manistee artists.

FRIDAY, DEC. 7

n 1-8 p.m., Ramsdell Box Office Open,

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ramsdell Box Office

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Glenn and Pat Lottie

THURSDAY, DEC. 6 n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Glenn and Pat Lottie

Open, Theatre lobby, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee.

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., A Victorian Christmas,

Manistee County Historical Museum, 425 River St. Display of items from Manistee’s Victorian era as what celebrating the holidays in the Victorian age was like. There is a cost for admission.

n Noon to 5 p.m. Christmas Cookie +

Wine Pairing, Douglas Valley, 431 River St., Manistee. Pair your favorite Christmas cookie with wine. There is a cost per person.

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Tour of the James

Dempsey Manor, 506 Maple St. Enjoy a guided tour of this historic 1894 lumber baron mansion, which now houses the Dempsey Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn and Victorian Tea Room. You will see the mansion’s Victorian French net-renaissance architecture, artwork, decorative items and period furniture. Reserve a space at (616) 802-4588. There is a cost for tours.

n 5:30-7:30 p.m. Business After Hours,

Ballroom, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. A special opportunity to preview the Festival of Trees with hors d’oeuvres, holiday music and networking with friends. A cash bar will be available along with special giveaways. There is a cost for admission. Bring a can good or animal food to vote for your favorite entry. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots/Gift for Teens.

n 7 p.m. Victorian Choral Concert, First

Congregational Church, 412 Fourth St., Manistee. The Manistee Choral Society will hold a Victorian Christmas Concert.

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., A Victorian Christmas,

Manistee County Historical Museum, 425 River St. Display of items from Manistee’s Victorian era as what celebrating the holidays in the Victorian age was like. There is a cost for admission. Art Exhibit, Hardy Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. In celebration of Glenn and Pat Lottie’s enthusiasm, and to honor the late Pat Lottie, Glenn Lottie has put together this stunning display of artwork that represents some of the depth and diversity of our own Manistee artists.

n Noon-4 p.m. Ashton Cigar Holiday

Experience, Surroundings, 423 River St.

n Noon to 5 p.m. Christmas Cookie +

Wine Pairing, Douglas Valley, 431 River St., Manistee. Pair your favorite Christmas cookie with wine. There is a cost per person.

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Tour of the James

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Theatre Tours

(meet in lobby), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Learn about critical figures such as Thomas Jefferson Ramsdell, the philanthropist, Solon Beman, the architect, Fredrick Winthrop Ramsdell, the painter, among others. There is a cost for tours. Call (231) 398-9770 to RSVP.

n 1-6 p.m. Cookie Fun For Everyone, United Methodist Church, 387 First St., Manistee. Support your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and decorate Christmas cutout

Theatre lobby, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee.

n 1-8 p.m. Nutcracker Gift Boutique, Hardy

Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. There are cute gift ideas for people of all ages; open during the Nutcracker Ballet production as well.

n 1-8 p.m. Festival of Trees, Ballroom,

Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Creatively decorated Christmas trees, wreaths and other season decor designed by local holiday enthusiasts. Bid on these holiday treasures and bring a can good or animal food to vote for your favorite entry. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots/Gift for Teens. Bids close on Dec. 9. FREE

n 4:30-6:30 p.m., Downtown Soup Cook-

off, downtown Manistee. Explore the shops of downtown Manistee and enjoy the flavors of fresh homemade soups. Results at Douglas Valley, 331 River St., awards at 7 p.m. FREE

n 4:30-6:30 p.m., Iron Fish Distillery at

Moving Spirits, 429 River St., Manistee. Enjoy complimentary samples of fine spirits from Iron Fish Distillery.

n 6:30-7:45 p.m. Kids & Kupkakes,

Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Bring your child or grandchild to decorate cupcakes with Culinary Artist Connie Watson. There is a cost for admission. Register online at www. manisteechamber.com.

n 8 p.m. The Nutcracker Ballet, Ramsdell

Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Seasoned director and choreographer Ingrid Bond brings magic to the Ramsdell with the Nutcracker Ballet. More than 70 dancers hailing from Manistee, Mason, and Benzie counties will present one of Tchaikovsky’s most notable holiday classics. Purchase tickets at www.MyNorthTickets.com or by calling 800-836-0717.

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

SATURDAY, DEC. 8 n 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sleighbell Craft Show and Bake Sale, Manistee High School, 525 12th St., Manistee.

n 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Festival of Trees, Ballroom, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Creatively decorated Christmas trees, wreaths and other season decor designed by local holiday enthusiasts. Bid on these holiday treasures and bring a can good or animal food to vote for your favorite entry. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots/Gift for Teens. Bids close on Dec. 9. FREE

n 10 a.m. to noon, Parents & Paint, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Bring your child or grandchild to paint with local artist Tami Roth. There is a cost for admission, which includes supplies and step-by-step instruction along with cookies and hot chocolate. Register online at www. manisteechamber.com.

n 10 a.m. Jingle Bell Jog 5K Run/Walk, Kennedy Elementary

School, 550 Maple St., Manistee. There is a registration fee. For more information visit runmanistee.blogspot.com or email ethuemmel@ manistee.org.

n 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Historic Vogue Theatre, 383 River St., Manistee. Holiday Christmas classics on the big screen. In celebration of its 80th anniversary the Vogue is giving 80 Christmas presents to lucky patrons who stop in and draw a golden coin from Ebenezer Scrooge’s top hat. FREE

n 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., A Victorian Christmas, Manistee County

Historical Museum, 425 River St. Display of items from Manistee’s Victorian era as what celebrating the holidays in the Victorian age was like. There is a cost for admission.

n 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Love for Children & Chocolate, Christian Faith

Church International, 55 Division St., Manistee. Chocolate Shoppe and free photos with The Grinch.

n Noon to 1 p.m. Meet the Grinch, Happy Owl Bookstore, 358 River St., Manistee. Stay for local author book signings following the event.

n Noon-2 p.m. Historic Tour of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 313 Fourth St. FREE hot cocoa and cookies

n Noon-3:30 p.m. Carriage Rides Down River Street, east and west end.

n Noon to 5 p.m. Christmas Cookie + Wine Pairing, Douglas Valley, 431 River St., Manistee. Pair your favorite Christmas cookie with wine. There is a cost per person.

n 1-3 p.m. Canvas & Cheer, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts,

101 Maple St., Manistee. Bring a friend and unwind as you learn to paint with local artist Tami Roth. Admission cost includes supplies and step-by-step instruction along with holiday beverage and danish. Register online at www.manisteechamber.com.

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Theatre Tours (meet in lobby), Ramsdell

Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Learn about critical figures such as Thomas Jefferson Ramsdell, the philanthropist, Solon Beman, the architect, Fredrick Winthrop Ramsdell, the painter, among others. There is a cost for tours. Call (231) 398-9770 to RSVP.

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Tour of the James Dempsey Manor, 506 Maple St. Enjoy a guided tour of this historic 1894 lumber baron mansion, which now houses the Dempsey Manor Bed and

n 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cookie Fun For Everyone, United Methodist

Church, 387 First St., Manistee. Support your local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and decorate Christmas cutout cookies. Cookies, frosting and sprinkles provided; buy them by the dozen or half dozen.

n 11 a.m. to noon, Cocoa, Cookies, and Crafts, Farmers Insurance of Manistee, 320 First St., Manistee. Come grab a cup of cocoa, decorate a cookie to snack on, and make a festive craft to take home. FREE

n 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Old Kirke Museum, 304 Walnut St.,

Manistee. Scandinavian Christmas Open House, enjoy cookies and refreshments in the oldest Danish Lutheran Church, FREE

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Breakfast Inn and Victorian Tea Room. You will see the mansion’s Victorian French net-renaissance architecture, artwork, decorative items and period furniture. Reserve a space at (616) 802-4588. There is a cost for tours.

Inn, 399 River St., Manistee. Watch the parade from a spectacular view while enjoying live music, all you can eat appetizers and three drink tickets. There is a charge for admission. RSVP (231) 398-7901.

n 1-3:45 p.m., Santa’s Headquarters,

downtown Manistee on River Street. This authentic parade features horse drawn carriages, turn of the century characters, 30 foot Christmas tree pulled upright by a beautiful horse team, elf on stilts, high school marching bands, bagpipers and a German organ player. The parade concludes in downtown’s west end near the fountain with community caroling and lighting of the tree.

Manistee Municipal Marina, 460 River St., Manistee. Santa himself will be there for photo ops and to receive Christmas lists. Other activities include Mr. Balloon Man (Don Olszewski) and face painting by Debbie Tiefenthal. Santa leaves promptly at 4 p.m. to lineup for the parade.

n 1-8 p.m., Glenn and Pat Lottie Art

Exhibit, Hardy Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. In celebration of Glenn and Pat Lottie’s enthusiasm, and to honor the late Pat Lottie, Glenn Lottie has put together this stunning display of artwork that represents some of the depth and diversity of our own Manistee artists.

n 1-8 p.m., Ramsdell Box Office Open,

Theatre lobby, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee.

n 1-8 p.m. Nutcracker Gift Boutique, Hardy

Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. There are cute gift ideas for people of all ages; open during the Nutcracker Ballet production as well.

n 2:30-3:30 p.m., MaxwellTown Brass,

390 River St., Manistee. MaxwellTown Brass was assembled to honor the rich traditions and culture of MaxwellTown in Victorian Manistee.

n 8 p.m. The Nutcracker Ballet, Ramsdell

SUNDAY, DEC. 9 n 10 a.m. Traditional Swedish Brunch &

Worship Service, Portage Lake Bible Camp, 4158 Camp Delight Road, Onekama. Brunch at 11 a.m. There is a cost for brunch. RSVP at (231) 889-5911.

n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., A Victorian Christmas,

n 2-4 p.m. Pony Rides, downtown in front

of the Manistee Municipal Marina, 460 River St., Manistee. Ends promptly at 4 p.m.

Manistee County Historical Museum, 425 River St. Display of items from Manistee’s Victorian era as what celebrating the holidays in the Victorian age was like. There is a cost for admission.

n 2-4 p.m. Christmas Tea at the Buckley

n 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festival of Trees,

House, 450 Cedar St., Manistee. Enjoy a lavish Christmas tea in the third floor ballroom of one of Manistee’s premier Victorian homes. Three full courses will be served along with a complete tour of the home. RSVP by Dec. 5 by calling (231) 3982561; there is a charge for admission.

n 3-5 p.m. Christmas at Moving Spirits, 429 River St., Manistee. Enjoy complimentary wine samples and artisan desserts.

n 4-5:15 p.m., Merry Trombones, 390 River St., Manistee

n 4:30-7:30 p.m., Roasted Chestnuts, downtown Manistee on River Street

n 4:30-7:30 p.m., Jingle Mingle, Ramsdell

n 5:30 p.m., Victorian Sleighbell Parade,

Ballroom, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Bids close today at 1 p.m. today; winning bidders will pick up items promptly after bids close. Bid on these holiday treasures and bring a can good or animal food to vote for your favorite entry. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots/Gift for Teens. FREE

n 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Old Kirke Museum,

304 Walnut St., Manistee. Scandinavian Christmas Open House, enjoy cookies and refreshments in the oldest Danish Lutheran Church. FREE

n 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ramsdell Box Office

Open, Theatre lobby, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee.

n 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Glenn and Pat Lottie Art Exhibit, Hardy Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. In celebration of Glenn and Pat Lottie’s enthusiasm, and to honor the late Pat Lottie, Glenn Lottie has put together this stunning display of artwork that represents some of the depth and diversity of our own Manistee artists.

n 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nutcracker Gift Boutique, Hardy Hall, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. There are cute gift ideas for people of all ages; open during the Nutcracker Ballet production as well.

n Noon to 4 p.m. Christmas Cookie + Wine Pairing, Douglas Valley, 431 River St., Manistee. Pair your favorite Christmas cookie with wine. There is a cost per person.

n 1-3:45 p.m., Santa’s Headquarters, Manistee Municipal Marina, 460 River St., Manistee. Santa himself will be there for photo ops and to receive Christmas lists. Santa’s Headquarters is also open Dec. 15,16,22 and 23.

n 1-3 p.m. on the hour, Tour of the James Dempsey Manor, 506 Maple St. Enjoy a guided tour of this historic 1894 lumber baron mansion, which now houses the Dempsey Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn and Victorian Tea Room. You will see the mansion’s Victorian French net-renaissance architecture, artwork, decorative items and period furniture. Reserve a space at (616) 802-4588. There is a cost for tours.

n 2 p.m. The Nutcracker Ballet, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee. Seasoned director and choreographer Ingrid Bond brings magic to the Ramsdell with the Nutcracker Ballet. More than 70 dancers hailing from Manistee, Mason, and Benzie counties will present one of Tchaikovsky’s most notable holiday classics. Purchase tickets at www. MyNorthTickets.com or by calling 800-8360717.

n 3 p.m. Lessons & Carols, Trinity Lutheran Church, 420 Oak St., Manistee. Music, singing and bible readings, dessert and social afterward.

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

Christmas Tea will take place at the Buckley House, which is located at 450 Cedar St. (News Advocate File Photo)

Christmas Tea celebrates Victorian era in Victorian setting at Buckley House By David Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

The annual Sleighbell Weekend Christmas Tea at the historic Buckley House on Saturday, Dec. 8 will celebrate the Victorian era – as it was in Manistee and also England. “I have always loved doing tea when we're traveling,” said Sarah Helge, who with her husband John owns the Victorian-era home, “Teas are fun and very special.” Tea at the Buckley House, which is located at 450 Cedar St., is by reservation only. Guests will be seated at 2 p.m. “It's is our fourth year of doing this,” Helge said. “Last year we had 40 people and that's

probably about the maximum.” Helge said she looks for interesting combinations of food to serve during the threecourse tea. “It starts with tea sandwiches, then a scone course and then a variety of sweets,” she said. “It's a lot of food, so people should be hungry when they come.” Helge tries to be creative in her selections. “One year I had a big falafel – a sandwich with ham, salomi and olive spread in the shape of a mitt, using a mitt cookie cutter I had,” she said. “We end with a tour of the

The Christmas Tea will be held in the third floor ballroom at the Buckley House. The room features a French dancing floor sloped from the middle down to the walls to provide a springy feel and promote the best possible dancing. (News Advocate File Photo)

“Sometimes people come with visitors who are here for the weekend and the next year they come with different Helge said several regulars attend the event year after year. visitors. house, trying to wrap things up by 4 so participants can get downtown for the parade.”

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

“We do have fun with it,” she continued. “We decorate as much as we can and make it special for the people who attend.” At this point the Christmas Tea is the only time the Helges open their home to the public. “I've toyed with the idea of having a Mother's Day tea,” Helge said. Helge encourages anyone looking for a unique event to attend. "It's very fun,” she said. “We've gotten a lot of good comments that people have had a good time.” The Buckley house was built in 1874 as a two-story Victorian Gothic. William Buckley, president of the Buckley & Douglas Lumber Company, bought the property in 1895

and extensively renovated it into a three-story home in the Free Classic Queen Anne architectural style. It features a wrap-around porch, ornate original carved woodwork, parquet floors, stained glass doors that enclose the library's bookshelves, five fireplaces, a conservatory with tiled walls, floors and ceiling, stained glass transom windows and electric/ gas chandeliers. The third floor ballroom, where the tea will be held, features a French dancing floor sloped from the middle down to the walls to provide a springy feel and promote the best possible dancing. The room is surrounded by colorful stenciled beadboard and an intricate system of lights.

The Buckley House boasts five fireplaces. Those who attend the Christmas Tea will get a tour of the house afterward. (News Advocate File Photo)

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Vendors at the annual Sleighbell Craft Show, Bake Sale, Bazaar and Raffle will be selling a wide variety of items including wood crafts, jewelry, photography, home décor, candy, greenery, knitting, and dolls and accessories. (News Advocate File Photo)

For many, craft show is highlight of Christmas season By David Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

There is no question that the parade is definitely the highlight of the Victorian Sleighbell weekend, but for many people, the Sleighbell Craft Show, Bake Sale, Bazaar and Raffle comes in a very close second. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Manistee High School, located at 525 12th St. The event has been the biggest fundraiser for the Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital Auxiliary for many

years, according to Kathleen Jeffries, who modestly says, “I wouldn't say I'm heading it up – we're a committee and we all do our part.” For the past two years Jeffries has been in charge of booth rentals. She says this year's show will be a little bigger than in the past. “We've added eight booths, so we have 168 now,” she said. “We are set up in the gym, the commons and down the hallways all the way around. We use the whole first floor

of the school except for the auditorium.” Vendors at the show will be selling a wide variety of items including wood crafts, jewelry, photography, home décor, candy, greenery, knitting, and dolls and accessories. Admission is free, and in addition to sales at the booths the auxiliary will be selling baked goods and raffle tickets and lunch will be available at the school cafeteria from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be photos with Santa from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Manistee Lions Club will offer free vision tests for children up

to age 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jeffries said funds raised will be used to purchase equipment for the local hospital. She added that the high school is the perfect venue for the event. “Parking is great and it's convenient that lunch is available right there. We wish we had more space, but I don't think there's really a bigger place where we could have it.” Jeffries said about 25 of the auxiliary's 75 members help on the day of the show, “but through the year everyone works on it. If they can't help

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

at the show they bake cookies and they sell raffle tickets. “We sell homemade cookies by the dozen,” she said. “We all bake them like crazy and fill up our freezers. We always sell out, so we could use more bakers.” In addition to the efforts of auxiliary members, Jeffries said the Manistee Rotary Club helps by marking the booth spaces on Friday evening. “We've talked about trying to keep track of attendance somehow. We don't want to charge people to come in, so we'd have to have counters at the doors. We don't know for sure how many, but it's definitely thousands of people.” Jeffries said there is a waiting list of about 25 vendors to get

into the show. “We send letters to vendors in June and usually by the middle of July we're full,” she said. Anyone wanting to receive an application can be put on the list by calling the hospital auxiliary phone number – (231) 398-1187. Jeffries said she thinks that for many people, attending the show is a highlight of their Christmas season. “It's an important part of Sleighbell Weekend for everyone, part of the many activities that go on in our wonderful Christmas town," she said.

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This year the craft show during Sleighbell Weekend will include eight more booths than last year. The event is held at Manistee High School. (News Advocate File Photo)

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People line up to grab a soup sample during the 2017 Downtown Soup Cook-off. (News Advocate File Photo)

SOUP from page 3 businesses that will be serving samples of original soups. Some are traditionally named, like in year's past the New England Clam Chowder, while others are more out-of-thebox, like Nacho-Mama’s Chili. This year, Doyan said The Ideal Kitchen is once again participating, and Bob Kennedy, Doyan's friend, typically makes their soups. In the past, she said seven gallons of soup was served during the entire event. "Bob always makes it for us," Doyan said. "It's huge. We get more and more people, and when you've got (13 stops)

you are looking at two ounces of soup at 13 places — you're full by the time you are done." At some locations, for a small donation, participants are able to buy the recipes. "People are constantly doing that because they get like 13 different soups for their recipe card," said Doyan. During the event, everyone is asked to visit all locations and vote on their favorite soup. At the end, a winner will be announced at 7 p.m. at Douglas Valley Winery's downtown business — located at 431 River St. To find out what soups will be available, check with business owners.

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SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

Carriage rides set scene for Sleighbell Parade By Jane Bond Staff Writer

One of the aspects that sets the Victorian Sleighbell Parade apart from other holiday festivals is that it is a step back in time to an era where no cars could be found on River Street. To help set the scene for the parade, visitors can get a firsthand experience with Victorian transportation by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride down River Street. Common Gentry Carriage Company will be providing carriage rides from noon to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, at the east and west end of River

Street. Although the company hails from Kent City, Mich., they are no strangers to Victorian Sleighbell Weekend. "We've been coming to the Sleighbell Parade for a few years now and we really enjoy it," said owner Connie Elsasser. "We're happy to be back for another year." Elsasser said there will be plenty of ride options for visitors to choose from, and there will be several carriage drivers downtown. "We'll be having a couple

A great way for visitors to get in the spirit of the Victorian Sleighbell Parade is to take a carriage ride down River Street, which will be provided by Common Gentry Carriage Company. (News Advocate File Photo)

carriages, as well as a team pulling the wagon," she said. While the carriage rides accommodate a couple of passengers, those with a larger group can enjoy a ride in the wagon which fits 12 passengers.

"Following the horse-drawn carriage ride we will be in the parade," she said. "In case of weather we do have the option to cover the carriage with a convertible top so everyone can still enjoy the ride."

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Ramsdell events bring together old traditions, new celebrations By Jane Bond Staff Writer

The holiday season celebrates the unity of traditions, bridging together old customs and new ventures. The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts will ring in the holiday season with that in mind, and will be hosting a variety of events that include past favorites and new celebrations. The biennial production of “The Nutcracker Ballet” will return to the Ramsdell stage for two weekends, and is a collaboration between longtime director Ingrid Bond and the RRCA. Tchaikovsky’s original ballet premiered in 1892 and was staged by Russian choreographer, Marius Petipa. The score and the ballet premiered at nearly the same time the Ramsdell was built. With this in mind, Bond's production of “The Nutcracker Ballet” was specifically set for the Ramsdell stage, and enables the audience to see many unique features of the theater.

The Nutcracker Ballet will return to the Ramsdell stage with performances scheduled throughout Old Christmas Weekend. (News Advocate File Photo)

the opportunity to work with her and present “The Nutcracker Ballet” as part of our series. We have been helping Ingrid along the way in terms of resources and reaching a little farther with marketing," he said. "She has been really amazing in terms of being able to organize the auditions and getting kids from across county lines."

The performers range in age from 3 to 60, and span numerous counties throughout the state including Manistee, Mason, Benzie, Lake, Wexford, Xavier Verna, executive director of the RRCA, said the partnership Berrien and Newaygo counties. was an easy transition, as the Dancers were selected by a production has been held at three-panel audition judged the Ramsdell for the past two by dance professionals, decades. including Frankfort native Carol Greenaway. "(Bond) is an incredible person and dance teacher, so we saw

The brief solo called, "Dance

of the Sugar Plum Fairy" is the original Marius Petipa choreography, and Greenaway gifted the choreography to Bond when her version of the production began in 1998. "Dance is different than other arts because there is nothing physical to pass onto others," said Bond. "It is such an honor to have been gifted such an important, significant work, because it represents such an artistic trust. I’m the steward of this choreography and I am entrusted to make it fit with the rest of the production." Bond said one of the most rewarding aspects is watching the close relationships develop between the dancers, and their devotion to the production. Rehearsals are often attended

by previous cast members who coach dancers in roles they held in the past. "They are coming from all different schools and are learning how to adapt to artistic styles," she said. "There is a mix of new friendships and old friendships, and some people who are in Nutcracker have done it since they were little children and are now adults. It’s so inspiring to see how it works its magic, even in rehearsal." Bond said the partnership with RRCA for the project has been a rewarding experience. "It has been nice working with the RRCA in that they’ve really understood that this takes a lot of time and space on a regular basis," she said. "They’ve been accommodating and certainly

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

enthusiastic about it coming together, and encouraging it to grow." Performance dates are at 8 p.m. on Nov. 30, Dec. 1 and 7-8, and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 2 and 9. Carrying on the Nutcracker Ballet theme, the RRCA will have a gift boutique open during Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend and during performances. "We’ll have a Nutcracker boutique open for gifts that are great for Christmas presents and things for the home, and that will be going on in Hardy Hall," said Verna. "We’ll also have historic tours of the Ramsdell scheduled on Friday and Saturday." The boutique will be open from 1 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 8, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 9. There will be additional hours during “The Nutcracker Ballet” production. Tours will be held at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. on the hour on Dec. 7 and 8, and visitors will meet in the theater lobby. There is a fee for admission, and those who are interested can call (231) 3989770 to RSVP. The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce will also host its annual Festival of Trees event in

the Ramsdell ballroom. Visitors can bid on a variety of holiday items, and can vote for their favorite entry by donating canned goods or pet food. "Festival of Trees is collecting Toys for Tots/Gifts for Teens again this year and any child that brings an unwrapped toy can get registered to win an amazing Vogue Theatre package with the winner drawn Sunday at 1 p.m.," said Sherri Wehrmeister, chair of the Festival of Trees committee. "Adults can also drop off a donation and be registered to win an overnight stay at (Little River Casino Resort). Last year we collected 125 items and we'd love to be able to do that again this year."

Festival of Trees will take place at the Ramsdell, and those who attend can vote for their favorite entry with a donation of canned goods or pet food. (News Advocate File Photo)

Manistee." The Ramsdell also will feature the Glenn and Pat Lottie Art Exhibit in Hardy Hall. The exhibit will feature a collection of works created and collected by the Lotties.

Those who attend also can vote for their favorite entry with canned goods or pet food which The exhibit will be open during will be collected for Manistee County Council on Aging Food Pantry and Homeward Bound Animal Shelter. Festival of Trees is free to attend and will be open to the public from 1 to 8 p.m. on Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. "We’ll see lots of foot traffic through the building, which we really love to see," Verna said. "It’ll be a really fun, busy weekend in

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The Vogue Theatre will continue its 80th anniversary celebration during Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend. (News Advocate File Photo)

Vogue to offer free classic movies By David Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

The historic Vogue Theatre, located in the heart of downtown Manistee at 383 River St., will again welcome Sleighbell weekend visitors to come in to enjoy free Christmas classic shows from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8.

“We're going to be showing free movies all day long,” said theater manager Jim Snoeyink. “People can just walk into the theater and the movies will be running. They can get some popcorn and drinks, get warmed up and go back out and walk around

town.”

prizes.

Snoeyink said he doesn't have the entire list of what will be shown, but said that this year the free movies will be television classics.

“We've been celebrating the anniversary all year,” Snoeyink said, “For our classic movies on Wednesdays at least once per month we've been showing a film from 1938, the year the theater was built.”

Also, to continue the 80th anniversary celebration of the theater that was built in 1938, patrons will draw golden coins Snoeyink said he enjoys the crowds that turn out for from Ebenezer Scrooge's top hat; 80 lucky people will win Sleighbell weekend. SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

“We have a lot of out of town people come in and we're happy give to walk them around and show them what we've got,” he said. “We give them the history of the theater and the story of its reconstruction.”

we look forward to having another great year in 2019.”

“We have tremendous community support between our volunteers and our patrons,” Snoeyink said. “We want to thank the community of Manistee for its support. It's greatly appreciated and

Downtown Development Authority purchased the Vogue and sold it at a nominal price to the newly formed nonprofit Historic Vogue During Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, the Vogue Theatre will show free Christmas classics on Dec. 8. (News Advocate File Photo) Theatre of Manistee.

The Vogue was built by Butterfield Theaters in 1938 in the art deco style. The 935 seat theater was a single operation until Butterfield While the free movies are Theaters sold it in 1985. That showing on one of the year it was transformed into Vogue's screens, the regular a two-screen theater by shows will be running on the splitting off the balcony from other. the main auditorium. Over the Everyone in Manistee has next two plus decades it saw been impressed by the little improvement and was success of the Vogue after its reconstruction was completed closed in 2008. in 2013. In 2010 the Manistee

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Historic buildings open doors for Sleighbell Weekend By David Yarnell Special to the News Advocate

Many of Manistee's historic buildings will be open to visitors during Sleighbell weekend, but three mustsee historic treasures are the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Dempsey Manor and St. Paul's Lutheran Church. The Dempsey Manor, 506 Maple St., will offer tours on the hour at 1, 2, and 3 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Sunday during Sleighbell Weekend. Saturday's tours are already sold out, so reservations are recommended by calling (616) 802-4588. There is a charge for the tours.

nice white with some gold trim and it looks pretty good. Also, this year we'll not only have hot chocolate, coffee and cookies, but the first 50 attendees will get a Christmas tree ornament.” St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in 1881. The congregation first met in a building that the Manistee Methodist church outgrew. By 1890 that building, on Maple Street, was too small, so the current church was built.

As the years passed the church saw many additions and updates such as a parsonage Tours at the Ramsdell Regional built in 1898 and a new altar in Center for the Arts, 101 Maple the 1920s. By 1948 the school St., will be offered on the hour building was torn down and a at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. on Friday and two car garage was built in its Saturday. There is a fee. place. That same year, art glass Tours will be offered at St. windows were authorized and Paul's Lutheran Church, 313 installed. 4th St., on Saturday from noon Despite its age, Rev. Schmeling to 2 p.m. said the building is not ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN difficult to maintain and is very CHURCH functional. Rev. James Schmeling, pastor “It is well-built and serves our of St. Paul's, said visitors will purpose well,” he said. “It is a get a first look at fresh paint in working church, definitely the sanctuary of the 128 year not a museum. There are old church. nice stained glass windows, “We're still finishing up the painting of the front of the altar,” he said. “It's back to a

especially the one behind the altar. It's a pretty church and has a lot of historical

St. Paul's Lutheran Church on Fourth Street was built in 1890. This year visitors will see a new coat of paint in the church's sanctuary. (News Advocate File Photo)

interesting features.” Rev. Schmeling said the church enjoys hosting visitors on Sleighbell Weekend. “Ultimately, we'd like to have them come back on Sunday and join the congregation,” he said.

THE DEMPSEY MANOR James Colburn, who has owned the Dempsey Manor since 2012, said the home is decorated “like the Victorian houses you've seen in the movies. We try to make it as nostalgic as possible and we

even put a Christmas tree in each of our guest rooms.” The Dempsey Manor was built by lumber baron James Dempsey in 1894. The house was designed and constructed by the Chicago firm Holabird and Roche. Colburn should well know what Victorian homes look like in the movies, because the Los Angeles native worked for many years as a scene designer for Hollywood studios. “My specialty was period sets,”

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

he said. “The first show I ever worked on was a Peter Sellers remake of the 1930s movie 'Prisoner of Zenda.' A lot of it was filmed in Europe, so I had to duplicate some of the European locations on stage at Warner Brothers and it was all Victorian.” Colburn said sometimes he does feel like he's back on the job as a scene designer as he works to make the Dempsey Manor as authentic as possible. “I'll tell you, this is my last, finest, best and never to be completed set,” he joked. “And I am having a ball. Each of our guest rooms is distinctly different, and each has a collection of some Victorian type of art, sculpture or painting.”

showroom I ended up with 10 cargo containers filled to the top with precious oneof-a-kind museum quality furnishings. There is everything from lace to carpets to light fixtures to sculpture and of course furniture.” He said he emptied only two of the 10 containers to furnish the Dempsey Manor. “We've been picking through the remaining eight and in the process we uncover things that find their way into the house. I want to be sure the house will have the best treasures from over 55 years of collecting,” he said.

In addition to having many tours already booked, all of the guest rooms are full for Sleighbell Weekend. Each year The Dempsey Manor was built by lumber baron James Dempsey in 1894. The current owner, James Colburn, said the home is decorated “like the Victorian of operation, the bed and houses you've seen in the movies." (News Advocate File Photo) breakfast has incrementally In addition to designing sets, increased its business, Colburn Colburn also had a 9,500 square foot antique showroom said. in Los Angeles as an offshoot “Every B&B has something of his travels around the world special to offer,” he continued. looking for pieces for scenes “Ours is a living house he had to create for movies museum because it's and television. furnished exclusively as Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey would have “Antique dealers are the had it and we keep evidences worst hoarders in the world,” of the 21st century as invisible he said. “Anything that's particularly good, we keep for as we can.” ourselves, so when I closed the Relatives of the Dempsey

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family regularly visit the house, which helps Colburn get a feeling for what the home was like in its early days.

Ortiz, Ramsdell administrative assistant. For those who can't make the tour during Sleighbell weekend, Ortiz said selfguided tours are available during office hours or people can call ahead to schedule a tour. Tours are also offered in the summer during the Manistee National Forest Festival.

“This year we had five Dempsey great-greatgrandchildren,” he said. “They are finding out about us and coming to visit. They share family stories and artifacts and are so excited that the house will be preserved in perpetuity.” Jim said he and his partner Jan Peterson are working to make The Festival of Trees in the Rotary Ballroom is one of the many events that takes sure the house will always be a places place at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts during Sleighbell Weekend. (News Advocate File Photo) part of Manistee. Colburn said they try to “Our slogan is, 'Give yourself “Since we are in our 70s, the treat of slipping into the provide the opportunity we know we are just the pajamas of America's royalty,'” for their guests to step temporary stewards of this he said. place,” he said. “We feel like this back in time to experience “Staying here is a great way house called us and fell in love what a super wealthy to do Sleighbell Weekend privileged family would have with us and we are returning because we're within walking experienced 125 years ago. the favor.” distance of everything. The Ramsdell is two and a half blocks away and downtown is six blocks. If you go west, Lake Michigan is seven blocks. If 360 Parkdale Ave., you go north, the river is seven blocks and if you go east, Manistee, MI Manistee Lake is seven blocks.”

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RAMSDELL REGIONAL CENTER FOR THE ARTS Those who tour the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts will notice that it is a beehive of activity during Sleighbell Weekend. The Festival of Trees is in Rotary Ballroom, the Pat and Glenn Lottie art show in the T. Walter Hardy Exhibit Hall and “The Nutcracker” in production in the theater. Tours will be given by Ramsdell experts Jim Goodwin, Carolyn Mikula and Nanci Swenson. “We've been decorating and getting in the Christmas spirit, that's for sure,” said Laura

The newest thing at the Ramsdell is a recentlypurchased grand piano. She notes that Ramsdell executive director Xavier Verna continues to work hard to book regular performances to keep the building busy. The Ramsdell Theatre, which is owned by the City of Manistee, was built in 1903 by local lawyer Thomas Jefferson Ramsdell. Members of the Manistee Rotary Club saved the building from the wrecking ball by purchasing it from the Ramsdell estate in 1924. In the 1940s they gave the building to the City of Manistee, and for a short time it was used as an armory. The Manistee Civic Players, formed in 1939 to provide programming in the building and organized the Ramsdell Restoration Project in the 1990s. The group of volunteers worked diligently to bring the building back to its original glory by its 100th anniversary. In September 2003 Ramsdell alumnus James Earl Jones came back to Manistee to headline the 100th anniversary celebration in the restored facility.

SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

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Have a Very Merry Christmas Season! SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018

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SLEIGHBELL • Manistee News Advocate • December 2018