Venture Northwest 2021: Spring & Summer by Hearst Midwest

VENTURE

NORTHWEST

2021

SPRING & SUMMER The premier recreational guide for Benzie, Manistee and Mason counties

2021

CONCERTS & EVENTS at the Ramsdell

Ramsdell Theatre Camp Student Showcase June 26 at 2pm – FREE Art Divas Art Exhibit

July 6 - 23, 2021 – FREE Opening reception on Thursday, July 8, 4pm - 6pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11am - 1pm Thursdays and Fridays from 4pm - 6pm (cash bar available!)

SUMMER

The Insiders: A Tom Petty Tribute July 9 at 7:30 pm

TRIBUTE

Resurrection: A Journey Tribute July 23 at 7:30pm

SERIES

Mercury: The Music of Queen featuring Terry Barber August 20 at 7:30pm

G E T T I C K E T S AT: www.RamsdellTheatre.org Dance Break 231 Student Showcase

July 30 at 7pm – FREE

Ken Cooper Retrospective Art Exhibit August 6 - September 6 – FREE

S’Wonderful - An Evening of Gershwin featuring Karen Curlee August 27 at 7:30pm

The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts (RRCA) is Manistee’s home for community engagement and quality arts performances. The RRCA is a non-profit organization that manages and operates the city-owned historic Ramsdell Theatre, built in 1903 and listed in the national register of historic places in 1972. It features several large rooms including the theatre, ballroom, art gallery, and classrooms. The Ramsdell is the perfect venue for historical tours, community events, weddings, parties, and entertainment!

2 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Index So you think you’re ready to rough it?................................................ 4 Visit enchanting animals at Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm............................. 6 From paddlesports to outdoor sport oases........................................... 8 Beaches abound in Manistee County...............................................10 Thirsty? Manistee County has you covered.................................................12 Top 6 Places to enjoy a sunset on the ‘gold coast’............................14 5 top-notch fishing spots...............................16 2021 Area Events...............................................18 Five great hiking trails to check out this summer...............................24 Top 5 biking destinations to celebrate summer........................................26 The bestplaces to spend a rainy day in Manistee....................................27 5 historic spots to visit in Manistee County.................................28 Onekama village plans sesquicentennial bash.....................................30 10 of the area’s best dog parks, pet-friendly beaches...........................32 Find good food off the beaten path...........................................34

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Bring a jacket, even when it is warm out as temperatures fluctuate. Pictured is a stormy sight at the Manistee-Benzie County line area at Arcadia Dunes Baldy Overlook area. (Arielle Breen/News Advocate)

So you think you’re ready to rough it? Here’s how to be prepared for hiking in Benzie, Mason, Manistee counties ARIELLE BREEN VENTURE STAFF WRITER With so many more people either trying to enjoy the outdoors for the first time or picking up activities they once enjoyed, it’s time to revisit the do’s and don’ts of hiking and backpacking. Benzie, Manistee and Mason counties have a list of local trails that are great for day hikes, a quick walk with the family and even some that are made for backpacking and longer distance hiking. One trail that runs the length of eight states and also goes through parts of Mason and Manistee counties through the Manistee National Forest is the North Country Trail. Joan Young, chair of the trail’s local

Spirit of the Woods chapter, shared some advice about hiking.

paper or sanitary products. •

Here are her top tips on what to do and what to avoid. •

Tell someone where you are specifically going to be and when you expect to return.

•

Bring a jacket, even when it is warm out as temperatures fluctuate. Young says it doesn’t matter if the sun is shining, bring some sort of long-sleeved shirt, as it may even be needed for sun protection.

•

Bring water and a way to filter the water. Plan out where you will be able to access water on longer hikes. Bring a spare grocery bag to pack out trash and any waste paper products such as toilet

4 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

•

Practice leave no trace: This means steps like not taking things from the trail, don’t leave trash or things behind, camp away from water sources and off the trail.

fire, shelter (can even be a light emergency bivy), extra food, extra water and extra clothes. •

Another piece of advice she shared is from the Department of Natural Resources. On muddy days, the department is advising people not to play when trails and roads are muddy since activity at those times can cause deeper ruts and holes and damage to the trail compared to dry days.

Print a map of the location and trail, and sheath it in a large clear sealable bag or similar to protect it from the elements. Batteries in cell phones are going to drain, especially in the Manistee National Forest.

•

Wear sturdy shoes. It doesn’t mean one needs to get boots, but hiking in flip flops is not going to be comfortable after a mile.

•

Bring lip balm.

Pack the 10 essentials. According to REI Co-op, these are navigation, headlamp, sun protection, first aid, knife,

More information on the local North Country Trail chapter and maps is available online at northcountrytrail. org/trail/michigan/spw.

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4907 River Road, Frankfort 231-920-7085 CrystalLakeAplacaBoutique.com VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Visit enchanting animals at

Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm Boutique sells high-quality items made from alpaca fiber “They’re therapeuticand COLIN MERRY VENTURE STAFF WRITER (they) calm people. People Anybody looking to get up-close and personal with some enchanting animals need only to visit the Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm to get their fix of cute. The farm, owned by Chris and David Nelson, is located at4907 River Road Frankfort. Home to more than 50 alpacas, the working farm breeds and sells alpaca, as well as harvests and creates fiber out of alpaca fleece. Visitors to the Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm can see a working farm in action, visit the Crystal Lake Alpaca Boutique and check out the Animal Park where they can pet and feed animals. (Courtesy Photo)

They Crystal Lake Alpaca Boutique features a wide variety of products made from alpaca fiber, which is hypoallergenic, water resistant and fire resistant. (Courtesy Photo) 6 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

The farm is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, according to ChrisNelson. “The time has flown by; it seems like we just got the alpacas a few years ago but we’ve been doing it for 20 years,” she said. “When you do something you like and enjoy, time flies when you’re having fun.” Visitors to the Alpaca farm can watch the animals in their enclosures, walking, eating and playing. Many find watching them apeaceful experience, and theymakea calming humming noise as they go about their business. Curious animals, the alpacas may even wander over to investigate people watching them. As the year goes on, people may see baby alpaca, called a cria. “They’re enchanting, sweet and peaceful,” Nelson said.

come to the farm, sit on a bench, watch them grazing and frolicking. They look at you. It’s just, you feel your blood pressure go down. They put you at ease.” There also is an animal park, where people can pet and feed alpacas, Nigerian dwarf goats and miniature donkeys. “We started the animal park about three years ago,” Nelson said. “People wanted to get closer to the animals, and we don’t let people into the pastures with the alpaca, so we thought an animal park would be a good idea.” Aside from the animals, the animal park has a seating and picnic area for families who want to stay a while with the animals. Visitors to the Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm might also run into the alpacas’ guardians, several great Pyrenees, dogs that watch for coyotes or other predators that might try and sneak onto the farm at night. What started out as six animals is now a herd of 50 plus, and the Nelsons raise 10-13 babies each year. “We do sell them,” Nelson said. “We attend alpaca shows. We do quite well in competitions. We’re not breeding to have a

large quantity of animals, we’re breeding to have good quality animals that thrive and are happy. We’ve helped people start farms.” The Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm has received the National Huacaya Small Breeder of the Year designations in 2013, 2014 and 2015. As for the fiber, the Nelsons harvest it and send it to a processor to make yarn, which can be purchased at the farm’s boutique, which was created 10 years ago. Aside from the alpaca yarn, visitors can find everything from hats, mittens and socks made from alpaca wool, which is naturally hypoallergic, water repellant and fire resistant. Alpaca fiber also does not have the “itch factor” that sheep’s wool does. Other items found at the boutique include sweaters, shirts, blankets, stuffed animals, scarves, snacks and dryer balls. Since it opened, the number of items in the boutique have increased, requiring a second building to be used to sell alpaca products. The Crystal Lake Alpaca Boutique also now has a location in the Grand Traverse Commons at the Mercato in Traverse City.

The animal park at the Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm is home to alpacas, miniature donkeys and Nigerian dwarf goats. (Courtesy Photo)

An online store can be found at www.crystallakealpacaboutique. com. The Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and boutique in Frankfort is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, starting May 21. The alpacas even do weddings. “We’re doing wedding venues now,” Nelson said. “We can take the alpacas to outside wedding venues and they wear a little basket where they can ‘hand out’ wedding programs. People love to take pictures with the alpacas.” For more information, visit crystallakealpacas.com, call (231) 920-7085 or email CrystalLakeAlpacas@gmail.com.

The Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm is home to around 50 alpacas, an animal native to South America. (Courtesy Photo) VENTURE: SPRING 2021

A group of people could be seen tubing last year on the Big Manistee River after starting at Bear Creek. (Courtesy photo/Dan Reynolds)

From paddlesports to outdoor sport oases Manistee Adventures to open two new locations during M-55 detour ARIELLE BREEN VENTURE STAFF WRITER

Last year, Reynolds’ family bought Manistee Adventures from the previous owner.

A newer version of an existing outdoor adventure business is breaking with its previous mold.

“I said ‘If you’d ever like to sell, let me know,’ because we moved up here from Detroit about 5.5 years ago and have always visited this area and loved all the outdoor activities,” Reynolds said. “We got into a lot of the water sports and kind of live off the river so we (had bought) a lot of kayaks and said ‘we should do this some day.’”

Manistee Adventures is branching out from only offering canoe, kayak and tubing river trips on the Big and Little Manistee rivers in Manistee County. Dan Reynolds, Manistee Adventures co-owner, said the business now has a much broader offering that features the core paddlesports it was founded on, but also backpacking, cycling, outfitting, rentals and delivery services. Additionally, Manistee Adventures is also opening two other business locations outside of the 231 W. Parkdale Ave. building in Manistee. “(This is) partly because the (M-55) bridge is shut down (and it’s) really going to affect us with people getting to our site,” Reynolds said adding that many of Manistee

A single canoe is going down the Little Manistee River after starting at Six Mile Road with the help of Manistee Adventures. (Courtesy photo/Dan Reynolds) Adventures’ patrons are driving in from the Irons or Wellston directions and then face the M-55 detour. The M-55 bridge detour (near the intersection with U.S. 31) is expected to be in place through November 2021.

people can go directly there and then (also) in our location in town, we can drive them back,” he said. “(We’re) just trying to make the whole traffic thing better so people aren’t spending their whole experience driving.”

“We’re opening a spot toward Wellston and a spot … on the other side (of Manistee Township) so

Reynolds also emphasized that the business plans to have more services than it did last year.

8 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

“The passion for the outdoors (drove us here), we always visited this area for backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, lake stuff — just all of it and (we) had an opportunity to get into the business ourselves and try to offer some of those same services that we look for when we travel,” he said. Then, right after the family bought Manistee Adventures, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “But it ended up still being OK, we made it through the first year and had a good year,” he said.

This photo shows a stand-up paddleboard enthusiast on the Big Manistee River while another person in the friend group kayaks last year. (Courtesy photo/Dan Reynolds)

The business also offered beach and downtown rentals like bicycles and electric scooters last year and Reynolds said that aspect didn’t go as well as he had hoped. But he plans to try it again this year in some form.

A quick look at Manistee Adventures’ features: • Backpacking outfitting; • Canoe, kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboards and tubing river trips;

“You gotta try stuff, is how we looked at it. Try everything small and whatever works (you can) focus on that area,” he said. The business also has bicycle rentals. “Ever since COVID started, it’s been hard to buy kayaks and bikes because everyone got into it,” he said. “That’s been interesting and it’s still kind of the same, this year (they are) a little bit more available but I ordered kayaks like six months ago and still nothing.” Reynolds said Manistee Adventures also has backpacking outfitting as the interest in backpacking was one of the original draws for Reynolds before he moved to the area. “A lot of people don’t realize that we have one of the top backpacking places in Michigan — (it’s) right on the Manistee River Trail,” he said. “It’s such a well-known spot and unfortunately it’s getting more and more well known so it’s getting

• Delivery of canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards;

This group is getting ready to drop in the Little Manistee River at Nine Mile Road in Manistee County with help from Manistee Adventures last year. (Courtesy photo/ Dan Reynolds) crowded.” But backpacking gear also takes time and money to accumulate all the pieces needed for the activity.

• Beach cruiser, mountain bike or mid-grade bicycle hybrid rentals; and

Bridge Road near Wellston as well in an effort to connect water sport enthusiasts a place to stay when they visit Manistee County.

• Lodging.

“It takes a lot of money to invest in all the gear so we have all brand new gear for that so if people want to go out (they are outfitted). We have everything from sleeping bags to mess kits, everything,” he said. “If people just need a few things or they need everything, we can provide them with everything, get them out on the trail and experience the amazing trails we have in this area.”

Another service Manistee Adventures offers is delivery of items such as stand up paddle boards, canoes or kayaks.

Reynolds said the business also plans to offer lodging this year near High

Reynolds said the paddlesports are what they started with based on the

“A lot of people that rent houses around the area, they rent lake cottages and stuff (are) here for a week and then we’ll offer a service where people will ask us to drop off a kayak for a whole week,” Reynolds said.

previous Manistee Adventures model before they bought the business, but they wanted to branch out. “We look at Manistee the same way (and ask) what can we help offer to continue to bring up the different activities there are to do in Manistee. Obviously we love the paddlesports, but there’s a lot more that could be offered,” he said. More information on Manistee Adventures can be found online at its website, manisteeadventures.com, or by calling the office at 231-233-3265.

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Manistee’s First Street Beach. (File photo)

Beaches abound in Manistee County DYLAN SAVELA VENTURE STAFF WRITER

adults, from swing sets and slides to baseball/softball diamonds, basketball courts and tennis courts.

Growing up in Manistee, you hear it all the time: “We live where people vacation.”

First Street also has a few petfriendly patches too, with a fenced-indog park as well as a designated dog beach, below the observation deck near the Lions Pavilion.

Certainly, one of the area’s premier drawsisLake Michigan. And one does not need to own property along the lake’s shoreline to enjoy its beauty or even soak in its waves. Public access points and beachesare plentifulin Manistee County, and here area few favorites: First Street Beach Douglas Park Perhaps the most popular beach in the area, not to mention one of the largest,

Manistee’s iconic North Pierhead Lighthouse. (File photo) First Street Beach in the City of Manistee is a beacon for lake lovers. Whether you’re walking the First Street pier, engaging in recreational activities at Douglas Park, or just driving

10 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

through the “Beach Loop” as the sun sets, it’s an attraction for residents and visitors alike. Douglas Park features playgrounds for children and

The area accommodates picnics and grilling and is traditionally a hub of the annual ManisteeNational Forest Festival. Fifth Avenue Beach Just across the channel from Frist Street Beach is another popular destination for beach goers: Manistee’s Fifth Avenue Beach.

Manistee’s Fifth Avenue Beach. (File photo)

If you’re going to walk one pier this summer, look no further. The famed North Pierhead Lighthouse— one of Manistee’s most iconic structures — is the perfect foreground for a sunset and backdrop for a trip to the beach. The FifthAvenue Beach also has plenty of playground equipment for children as well as a recently reconstructed bathhouse, featuring a food vendor and shower facility. North Beach Access If one is looking for a more secluded beach experience— and one that is completely

open to furry friends— head toward the white water tower at the north end of Washington Street and check out Manistee’s North Beach Access. One shouldn’t be hard pressed to find a nice plot of sand on which to plop a towel and enjoy Lake Michigan without too much surrounding foot traffic. And speaking of foot traffic, this beach is perfect for long, peaceful walks along the shoreline. Dogs are welcome! Magoon Creek Sundling Park The North Beach isn’t the only quiet spot on Lake Michigan.

Head south of town, on Red Apple Road, and you’ll find a pair of hidden gems in Magoon Creek and Sundling Park.

picturesquespots to enjoy too. Onekama’s Portage Point Beach and the Arcadia Beach are a couple that stand out.

Arguably the prettiest spots on Manistee’s shoreline, to the west you’ll view lake waters as far as the eye can see and to the east you’ll see miles of dune and trees. Magoon offers picnic areas and trails too, for those looking for a relaxing hike in the woods. Portage Point Beach Arcadia Beach While Manistee offers beaches aplenty,the north end of the county has several public

Portage Point is positionedat the mouth of Portage Lake on Lake Michigan.One can either walk the pier or the miles of shoreline. Arcadia Beach sits at the end of the main drag in Arcadia. Owned by the township and protected with the help of the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, this quaint public access point offers parking, picnic tables, grills, a playground and public restrooms.

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Thirsty? Manistee County has you covered DYLAN SAVELA VENTURE STAFF WRITER Wondering where the local watering hole is? Well, how about a hundred?

that many in Manistee and surrounding counties, but one certainlyshouldn’thave any trouble finding a drink or two when they’re feeling thirsty.

OK, maybe there aren’t

Here are just a few favorites:

CHOPO’S NORTHSIDE BAR Address: 132 Monroe St., Manistee Phone: 231-299-3022 Facebook: Chopos Northside Bar Establishment’s description: Fun and friendly service is what you will find at Chopo’s along with great food andseven TVs for all your sporting needs.

TJ’S PUB Address: 399 River St., Manistee Phone: 231-398-9174 Website: ramsdellinn.net Establishment’s description: For a pleasant dining experience in a unique and cozy atmosphere, join us for lunch or dinner at TJ’s Pub. Our fresh menu allows us to easily accommodate special diets including a wide variety of vegetarian and gluten free options. We offer a full bar, Michigan beers on draft including American favorites and a wine list for wine lovers of all types. Enjoy a drink at the bar or dinner by the fire and soon you’ll be back again to experience all that TJ’s Pub has to offer.

GRILLE 44 Address:12951 Pleasanton Hwy., Bear Lake Phone: 231-864-4000 Website: grille-44.com Establishment’s description: A family friendly bar and restaurant one mile north of the village of Bear Lake, serving lunch and dinner seven days a week.

STU’S PUB Address: 506 Ramsdell St., Manistee Phone: 231-723-9128 Facebook: Stu’s Pub Establishment’s description: Come check out the new look at Stu’s Pub. This local bar has new ownership and a new atmosphere. Check out the interior, big screen TVs, new seating, etc. The new place for Game Days.

TRAKS BAR & GRILL Address: 5073 N High Bridge Road, Brethren Phone Number: 231-477-5944 Facebook: Traks Establishment’s description: Our mission is to provide you with quality food, friendly service and cleanliness that will exceed your expectations! 12 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

TJ’s Pub, located at 399 River St. in Manistee. (File photo)

NORTH CHANNEL BREWING CO. Address: 86 Washington St., Manistee Phone: 231-299-1020 Website: northchannelbrewing.com Establishment’s description: North Channel Brewing is an ode to the fascinating history of its’ hometown. We weave Manistee’s story into everything that we do. Come have a beer with us, and let’s tell some stories! North Channel Brewing is located in the historic North Channel Building on Washington Street in downtown Manistee. Situated right next to the Manistee River and the drawbridge, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy one of our many craft beers while taking in the views of downtown Manistee, the bridge and the occasional freighter passing through.

Iron Fish Distillery, located at 14234 Dzuibanek Road in Thompsonville in Benzie County. (File photo)

IRON FISH DISTILLERY Address:14234 Dzuibanek Road Thompsonville in Benzie County Phone Number:231-378-3474 Website: ironfishdistillery.com Establishment’s description: Iron Fish Distillery was founded in 2016, as Michigan’s first farm distillery. Located along the Betsie River watershed, home of the steelhead, we are “Returning Spirit to Its Origin” by creating a line of estate spirits, distilled from the ground up on our 120-acre farm. Every step of our soil-to-spirit process, starting in our farm fields where we grow and harvest our own grain to milling, mashing, fermenting and distilling and barrel aging occurs on site. Iron Fish also sources bourbon for finishing in barrels from around the world. To date, our library of barrel aged spirits exceeds 1,000 barrels, consisting of carefully sourced farm barrel finished whiskies and estate whiskies distilled from grain grown on our farm and from nearby farms.

North Channel Brewing Co., located at 86 Washington St. in Manistee. (File photo)

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Delightfully Unexpected.

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VENTURE: SPRING 2021

TOP 6 PLACES to enjoy a sunset on the ‘gold coast’ KYLE KOTECKI VENTURE STAFF WRITER The sun sets every night, but the view never gets old. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting or simply want to enjoy nature’s splendor alone or with family, a sunset is a great excuse to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the simple things. The recipe is simple enough: sand, waves crashing on the shore, clear skies and — of course — a setting sun. That said, the following six places top my list of the best places to take in a sunset. Arcadia Overlook A scenic drive along M-22 will lead you to the Arcadia Overlook,also known as Inspiration Point. You can hop out of your vehicle and take in the sights through the conveniently placed coin-operated binoculars, but if you feel like getting a little workout in you can climb the stairs to the top of the lookout and take in the setting sun from a bird’s-eye view. First Street Beach What better way to unwind after dinner and drinks than taking a stroll along the river and heading to the beach to view a beautiful sunset? Located about a mile from downtown Manistee, First Street Beach is a popular place to watch the sun set. There are parks, basketball and tennis courts, a dog park and baseball diamonds, so there’s

plenty to keep you occupied while you wait for the sun to go down. Fifth Avenue Beach There are plenty of ways to view a sunset at Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee. You can walk out on the pier, sit on a swing set or take it all in through your windshield if you so choose. After a relaxing day at the beach, why not stick around until nightfall and watch the sun go down? Additionally, Fifth Avenue Beach is a mere stone’s throw away from downtown Manistee. Bar Lake Access A quick drive down Lakeshore Road will take you to the Bar Lake Access, a small beach that provides a great view of the setting sun. There are benches and an ADA accessible waterside deck.

Taking in a sunset on the shores of Lake Michigan is a wonderful way to punctuate a summer night. (File photo)

Frankfort Public Beach The turnaround at the Frankfort Public Beach is a popular destination for Benzie County opacarophiles — also known as a sunset lover — and it’s not hard to see why. Located at the end of Main Street, the turnaround affords visitors a fantastic view and, due to its proximity to downtown Frankfort, there is plenty to do before and after the sun goes down. Stearns Park Ludington’s Stearns Park features a very long parking lot, which means plenty of sightseers can check out the sunset from the comfort of their vehicle. If you’re

14 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Fifth Avenue Beach is a fantastic place to watch the setting sun, whether from the sand or on the pier. (File photo) looking to get your steps in, you can take a leisurely strollon the breakwater, as well. Stearns Park is just a few blocks

from downtown Ludington, meaning there are plenty of ways to stay occupied while you wait for the sunset to draw near.

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5 TOP-NOTCH fishing spots KYLE KOTECKI VENTURE STAFF WRITER In my opinion, there aren’t many better klopways to spend a day than on or near the water, casting a line and waiting to see what comes next. There’s no shortage of top-notch fishing spots in the area. Whether you’re looking for a trophy steelhead or just a few perch to put on your dinner plate, you don’t have to travel far. A fishing boat makes its way through the Manistee River channel toward Lake Michigan. (File photo)

Fresh Produce Fresh Meat

Here are my five favorite spots to visit when Iwant to wet a line.

Hoags Lake Hoags Lake in Free Soil is a smaller lake, but since my boat only goes as fast as my arms can paddle it, I enjoy fishing there because I am able to fish the entire perimeter in a reasonable amount of time. That way, I feel as though I’ve left no stone unturned. I usually visit Hoags Lake when I want to feel a largemouth bass peeling drag, and there are some decent-sized ones swimming around. If the bass are being a bit tightlipped, I go to Plan B and target bluegill.

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Though perhaps best known for its ice fishing, Portage Lake in Onekama is a great lake to fish year round. (Kyle Kotecki/News Advocate)

Elberta Waterfront Park

and quiet, there are plenty of other spots along the Manistee River where one can find success.

A trip to the Elberta Waterfront Park can make for a good day of fishing on the bountiful Betsie Bay. There is a public fishing platform where the SS City of Milwaukee was formerly docked, with plenty of fish a mere cast away. Bass, pike, panfish and more lurk beneath the surface. And with plenty of riprap lining the water’s edge, it’s not difficult to get on some fish if like-minded anglers are on the fishing platform. Portage Lake Portage Lake in Onekama is my go-to body of water for ice fishing in the wintertime, but it’s certainly worth a visit during the warmer months, too. There’s always perch to be had in Portage Lake, and though it may take some time to find them, once you do the result is usually well worth it.

Lake Michigan While by no means a top-secret fishing hole, no list of places to fish would be complete without Lake Michigan. People come from far and wide looking to fill their cooler with salmon and trout. An angler fishes near Tippy Dam in Brethren. (File photo) In the summer I like to try my hand fishing the weed beds on the east side of the lake, but fishing the deeper waters towards the middle is worth a shot, too. Don’t be surprised if largemouth bass, rock bass and even the occasional walleye end up on the end of your line, either. Tippy Dam While it’s nice to get away and have some time to yourself, oftentimes a trip to the Tippy

Dam in Brethren will not offer much in the way of solitude. However, the legion of anglers are there for good reason: The fishing is fantastic. The salmon and steelhead runs bring anglers in droves. Steelhead and brown trout can be found in the spring, and as temperatures rise in the summer smallmouth bass can be caught. If you want a little more peace

While a fishing boat equipped with downriggers, GPS, fish finders and all the other pricey bells and whistles can help one find success on the water, even the everyman can have a fighting chance with little more than a rod, reel and some bait by fishing from the Fifth Avenue Pier. And of course, charter fishing is always an option for those looking to get out on the big water and reel in some steelies while leaving the navigation and rigging up to the experts.

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Port of Ludington Maritime Museum

2021 Area Events The following events are subject to change. Be sure to check with each venue before going out to attend the event. Up to date calendars are available at visitmanisteecounty.com/ area-events; pureludington.com/Events and visitbenziecountymichigan.com.

Honey Bee Market, Mondays 1-7 p.m., St. Ambrose Cellars, 841 S. Pioneer Road, Beulah

SUMMERLONG EVENTS

Downtown Ludington Final Friday Experience, last Friday of the month

Frankfort Farmers Market, May through October, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Open Space Park on Main Street, Frankfort

Iron Fish Distillery Spring Roll Sundays, noon to 5 p.m., 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville

Manistee Historical Museum, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 425 River St., Manistee

Bear Lake Area Historical Museum, 1-4 p.m. Saturdays through October, corner of Main and Virginia streets, Bear Lake Benzie Area Historical Museum, noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, 6941 Traverse Ave., Benzonia Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 217 South Lakeshore Drive, Ludington

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2021 Area Events Historic White Pine Village, 12:30-5 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 1687 South Lakeshore Drive, Ludington Bottle House Museum, noon-4 p.m. Saturdays through Labor Day, 14551 Wuosi Ave., Kaleva Tours of the SS City of Milwaukee car ferry and the retired Coast Guard cutter Acacia, in June Thursday-Sunday, in July and August Thursday-Monday, 99 Arthur St. (U.S. 31 North), Manistee

JUNE 4 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Exhibit “The Infinity Between Zero and One'” by Ellen Nelson, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, 107 S. Harrison St., Ludington

JUNE 5 Port of Ludington Maritime Museum Fourth Year Anniversary, 217 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington

JUNE 7-13 Frankfort-Elberta Restaurant Week

JUNE 11 Onekama Lions Community Dinner and Shorelines Celebration, Onekama Lions Den Pavilion, 7587 First St., Onekama

JUNE 12-13

JUNE 19

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Frankfort Craft Fair & Car Show, downtown Frankfort 1-6 p.m., Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival, Village Park, Brethren

JUNE 20 3-5 p.m., Rhett & John at Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville

JUNE 22 Harbor Classic Quarter Horse Show, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring the Paul Nelson Band, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JUNE 23 9 a.m., Kids Fish Day, Man Made Lake, Manistee Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Wendell Harrison, Waterfront Park, 391 S. William St., Ludington

JUNE 24 Pure Ludington Sunset Beach Bonfire, Stearns Park Beach, Ludington Living History Day, Historic White Pine Village, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington

Free Fishing Weekend throughout Michigan

Ladies Classic PRO/AM Fishing Tournament, Manistee

Lakestride Half Marathon/5K/10K, inperson and virtual, Stearns Park Beach, Ludington

Member Day, Port of Ludington Maritime Museum and Historic White Pine Village, Ludington

Shoreline Cruise on the SS Badger, Ludington

6:30-8:30 p.m., live music by Nick Andrew Staver at the Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville

JUNE 14-26 Ramsdell Theatre Camp, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St, Manistee

JUNE 15 Historical Lecture, “Resorts & Camps We Have Known and Loved,” Onekama

JUNE 18 History and Evolution of North Point Park, North Point Park, 8799 Greenway St., Onekama

JUNE 25-26 Nightcrawler Hunt and Take-A-Kid Fishing, Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort

JUNE 26 Budweiser PRO/AM Fishing Tournament, Manistee 6:30-8:30 p.m., music by Chris Sterr at Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonvillle Coast to Coast Gravel Grinder Bicycle Race, Stearns Park Beach, Ludington

Bus to the Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park Blessing of the Boats, Ludington Municipal Marina, 400 W. Filer St., Ludington

JUNE 27 Budweiser PRO/AM Fishing Tournament, Manistee

JUNE 28-30 Michigan PGA Women's Open Tournament, Mountain Ridge Golf Course at Crystal Mountain Resort

JUNE 28 Noon-2 p.m., Music by Cousin Curtis at Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Miriam Pico and David Chown, Onekama Village Park

JUNE 29 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Holly Maguire with the Kevin O’Connell Trio, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee 7 p.m., Scottville Clown Band Patriotic Concert, Scottville Optimist Hall, Scottville

JUNE 30 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Holly Maguire, Waterfront Park, 391 S. William St., Ludington

JULY 1-5 Manistee National Forest Festival, Carnival, Flea Market, Whispering Pines Petting Zoo and Timber Art, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JULY 1-4 Medallion Scavenger Hunt, start at Frankfort-Elberta Area Chamber of Commerce

JULY 3 Jaycee Beach Bash, First Street Beach, Manistee 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Family Day, Lighthouse Park, Manistee VENTURE: SPRING 2021

2021 AREA EVENTS

Frankfort Farmers Market

2021 Area Events

5:30-6:30 p.m., St Ambrose Cellars + Barefoot = Live Music Fun Northern Michigan Style, St. Ambrose Cellars, 841 S. Pioneer Road, Beulah 6:30-8:30 p.m., Music by the Bootstrap Boys at Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville

JULY 3-4 West Shore Art Fair, Rotary Park, 400 S. Harrison St., Ludington

JULY 4 Freedom Festival Parade & Fireworks, downtown Ludington Art Snake, throughout the Onekama area 10 a.m., Frankfort Fourth of July Celebration, tentatively to include pancake breakfast, parade, art in the park, sand sculpture contest, decorated bike contest and fireworks 10:30 p.m., Fireworks over Lake Michigan, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee Shoreline Cruise on the SS Badger, Ludington

JULY 5 3 p.m., Scottville Clown Band Manistee Beach Show, Douglas Park First Street Beach 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Shrock Brothers Band, featuring Madcat, Onekama Village Park 20 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

JULY 6

7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Tell Yo Mama, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JULY 7 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Tell Yo Mama, Waterfront Park, 391 S. William St., Ludington

JULY 8 Onekama Block Party featuring Then & Now, downtown Onekama Bus to the Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park

JULY 9-11 Bear Lake Days

JULY 9 7:30 p.m., The Insiders, Tom Petty tribute band, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee

JULY 10 8 p.m., Drew Hale Band at Coyote Crossing Resort, 8593 S. 13 Road, Cadillac Happy Hour History Hunt, Historic White Pine Village, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington

JULY 12 Ludington Offshore Classic/Big Boys Fishing Tournament, Waterfront Park, Ludington

7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Elvis Tribute by Jake Slater, Onekama Village Park

JULY 13 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Nick Moss Blues Band, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JULY 14 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Nick Moss Chicago Blues Band, Waterfront Park, Ludington

JULY 17 OneFifty Sailboat Regatta, Onekama

JULY 19 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Benzie Playboys, Onekama Village Park

JULY 20 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Serita’s Black Rose, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JULY 21 Walking Tour of Historic Homes on the Point, Onekama Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Serita's Black Rose, Waterfront Park, Ludington

JULY 22 Pure Ludington Sunset Beach Bonfire, Stearns Park Beach, Ludington

2021 Area Events Living History Day, Historic White Pine Village, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington

AUG. 2

Bus to Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park

AUG. 3

JULY 23-25 Arcadia Daze

JULY 23 7:30-10 p.m., Ressurection - A Journey Tribute, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St., Manistee

JULY 24 West Shore Bank Rhythm & Dunes Concert and Beach Party, Waterfront Park, Ludington Shoreline Cruise on the SS Badger, Ludington Fox Trot 5K Mud Run & Obstacle Course, West Shore Community College

JULY 26 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Ben Traverse, Onekama Village Park

JULY 27 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Greg Nagy’s Men of Leisure, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

JULY 28 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Greg Nagy's Men of Leisure, Waterfront Park, Ludington

JULY 30 Portage Lake Yacht Club Open House & Historical Presentation, Onekama Member Day, Historic White Pine Village and Ludington Maritime Museum

JULY 31 Portage Lake Yacht Club Onekama OneFifty Sunfish Invitational Walking Tour of Portage Point Resort, Onekama West Shore Bank Rhythm & Dunes Concert, ’80s Retro Night, Waterfront Park, Ludington 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Frankfort Street Sale

7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Peter, Paul & Mary Remembered, 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Planet D Nonet, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

AUG. 4 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Rodney Whitaker Quartet, Waterfront Park, Ludington

AUG. 5 Kids Story, Craft, and Playtime, Onekama Branch Library, 5283 Main St. Bus Day to Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park

AUG. 6-9 Onekama Days

AUG. 6-7 Onekama Parks and Recreation Scavenger Hunt, Village Park, Onekama

AUG. 6 U.S. 10-31 Celebration, downtown Scottville 7 p.m., Log Cabin Concert featuring the Blue Water Ramblers, Log Cabin Theater, corner of Walta and Panu streets, Kaleva

AUG. 7-8 Copemish Days

AUG. 7 #RunLudington 2021 Run the Beach 5K 5:30 - 8 p.m., Barefoot music at St. Ambrose Cellars, 841 S. Pioneer Road, Beulah

AUG. 9 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Barefoot Music at St Ambrose Cellars, 841 S. Pioneer Road, Beulah 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Michael Trixx, Onekama Village Park

AUG. 10 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Rodney Whitaker Quartet, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

AUG. 10-14 Western Michigan Fair, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington

AUG. 11 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Planet D Nonet, Waterfront Park, Ludington

AUG. 13 7 p.m., Log Cabin Concert featuring Ruth and Max Bloomquist, Log Cabin Theater, corner of Walta and Panu streets, Kaleva

AUG. 14-15 Gold Coast Artisan Fair, Rotary Park, 100 N. Harrison St., Ludington

AUG. 16 7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Wally Pleasant, Onekama Village Park

AUG. 17 7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring Chris Foreman’s Soul Message Band, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee Aug. 17-21 Manistee County Fair, 150th Year, Fairgrounds, Onekama

AUG. 18 Lumberjack Show, Manistee County Fair, Onekama Ludington Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Chris Foreman's Soul Message Band, Waterfront Park, Ludington

AUG. 19 Living History Day, Historic White Pine Village, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington Bus Day to Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park

AUG. 20 7:30 p.m., Mercury — The Music of Freddie Mercury and Queen, featuring Terry Barber, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St, Manistee 1-7 p.m., Frankfort Art Fair 5 p.m., Frankfort A&W Cruise Night, starts at Frankfort A&W, 21 Lake St. VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Lumberjack show

2021 Area Events

7 p.m., Log Cabin Concert featuring Mary Sue Wilkinson and Mark Schrock, Log Cabin Theater, corner of Walta and Panu streets, Kaleva

AUG. 21 6 a.m. Up North Bike Fest, Crystal Mountain Resort, Thompsonville 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Frankfort Art Fair 7 p.m., Concert in the Park, Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Collector Car Show, Mineral Springs Park, Frankfort

AUG. 23

7 p.m., Concert in the Park featuring Awesome Distraction, Onekama Village Park

AUG. 24

AUG. 28

Shoreline Cruise on the SS Badger, Ludington

SEPT. 1

AUG. 25 Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features U'Neek Soul, Waterfront Park, Ludington

8 p.m., Drew Hale Band at Coyote Crossing Resort, 8593 S. 13 Road, Cadillac

AUG. 26

AUG. 22 3-5 p.m., Rhett & John at Iron Fish Distillery, 14234 Dzuibanek Road, Thompsonville 22 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

7 p.m., Log Cabin Concert featuring Awesome Distraction, Log Cabin Theater, corner of Walta and Panu streets, Kaleva

7 p.m., ShoreLine ShowCase jazz concert featuring U’Neek Soul, Rotary Gazebo, Douglas Park First Street Beach, Manistee

7:30 a.m., Men’s Club Pancake Breakfast, St. Ann Church, 508 Crystal Ave., Frankfort

Suds on the Shore Craft Beer Festival, Rotary Park, 100 N. Harrison St., Ludington

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

Pure Ludington Sunset Beach Bonfire, Stearns Park Beach, Ludington

AUG. 27 Member Day at Historic White Pine Village and Port of Ludington Maritime Museum 7:30 p.m., S'Wonderful, an Evening of Gershwin featuring Karen Curlee,

Big Bear Butt Cruise One Day Bike Ride

Ludington Area Center for the Arts Summer Concert Series features Headwinds Blues Project, Waterfront Park, Ludington

SEPT. 11 Scottville Clown Band performs at the Scottville Clown Band Shell, Scottville Bus to Sable Point Lighthouse Day, Ludington State Park

SEPT. 12 IRONMAN 70.3 Michigan, downtown Frankfort

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5 GREAT HIKING TRAILS to check out this summer ROBERT MYERS VENTURE STAFF WRITER

No trip to Ludington State Park is complete without seeing Big Sable Lighthouse. (File photo)

Whether you are looking for a multi-day adventure or a scenic stroll, Lake Michigan’s shoreline counties of Benzie, Manistee and Mason offer abundant options to get outside and enjoy nature. This list provides five of the top local trails, each featuring unique aspects. At least one of them is bound to catch your eye. Lost Lake and Lighthouse Trail What list of trails in Lake Michigan shoreline counties would be complete without a lighthouse?

The Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk is a popular hike well-suited for all ages and abilities. (File photo)

This 4.7-mile trail has just that and showcases some of the best of Ludington State Park in the process. The trail begins along the scores of scenic Lost Lake and then passes through pine forests before emerging amidst rolling dunes and taking hikers the picturesque Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk If you’re looking for an easy trail to take you through a unique ecosystem, then the Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk might be the trail for you. This 1.9 trail takes you out on a boardwalk passing through Arcadia Marsh. It is a great place to spot wildlife (bird watching is very popular here) or catch a sunrise or sunset. Platte Plains Trail

The Manistee River Trail is a great backpacking opportunity with many scenic views. (File photo) 24 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the Sleeping Bear Dunes, a great way to do this is with a hike

along the Platte Plains Trail. As the name indicates, you won’t see the massive sand dunes Leelanau County’s portion of the park is known for, but the trail will give you a great tour of the Sleeping Bear Dunes ecosystem, as it winds for 4.5-miles through the forest from Platte River Campground to White Pine Backcountry Campground. Though the trail itself stays inland from the lake, there are several points at which hikers can branch off on trails leading down to the beach. Baldy Dune Trail One of the most popular destinations in Benzie County, this trail is located in the Arcadia Dunes: C.S. Mott Nature Preserve just north of Arcadia. The 1.8-mile Baldy Dune Trail takes trekkers through pine and deciduous forests before they finally ascend a staircase to reach Baldy Dune, home to scenic views and plenty of space to sit and watch a sunset. Manistee River Trail Loop The longest trail of this list is certainly worth the effort. One can hike out and back along sections of the trail as part of a day hike, but the best way to experience this trail is with an overnight camping trip taking advantage of the many backcountry camping sites along the river. Hikers of this popular 19.3-mile loop will enjoy scenic overlooks of the Manistee River, cross a suspension bridge and view abundant wildlife.

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VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Views such as these welcome cyclists in Ludington State Park in Mason County. (File photo)

TOP 5 BIKING DESTINATIONS to celebrate summer ROBERT MYERS VENTURE STAFF WRITER

sees an elevation change of more than 1,000 feet over the course of the loop, but spread of the course of the well-groomed trail, this elevation change rates only moderate for most cyclists.

For those looking to enjoy summer on a bicycle, there are many exciting opportunities to be found in Benzie, Manistee and Mason counties.

Outside of the main loop, there are also many other trails to try. This area is popular with bicyclists and hikers.

The following are some of the most popular cycling destinations:

Ludington State Park

Betsie Valley Trail First created in 1999 along the old Ann Arbor Railroad track, the Betsie Valley trail stretches 22 miles across Benzie County. It begins at Lake Michigan in Frankfort and then passes through Elberta and Beulah before ending in Thompsonville.

For a biking adventure that takes you to Lake Michigan, consider Ludington State Park. The Elberta portion of the Betsie Valley Trail is especially scenic as it passes Betsie Bay in Benzie County. (File photo) suited for mountain bikes, as the trail travels along the shores of Crystal Lake.

This trail, managed by the Friends of the Betsie Valley Trail and the Betsie Valley Trail Management Council, is a flat multi-use trail, making it perfect for all levels of riders.

From Beulah to Thompsonville, the remaining 13 miles of trail has an aggregate trail surface, which is hard enough for road bikes.

The six-mile section of the trail from Frankfort to Mollineaux Road, which provides scenic views of Betsie Bay and the Betsie River, is all paved.

Those looking for a fun mountain bike adventure might want to check out the Dry Hills Trail Loop.

The next three miles from Mollineaux Road until Beulah is made of a fine limestone, most

Dry Hills Trail Loop

The roller-coaster type trail follows the wooded glacial moraine for an 11-mile loop through the Arcadia Dunes:

26 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

C.S Mott Nature preserve in southern Benzie County, just north of Arcadia in Manistee County.

The state park is home to four miles of biking trails, but for those willing to ride along the side of the road, State Highway 116 provides a scenic ride through rolling sand dunes with beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

Mountain bikers will have to keep an eye out for runners and hikers who also use the narrow trail on occasion, but the trail is sure to challenge and excite.

A ride from downtown Ludington to the state park’s headquarters is about seven miles one-way.

Big M Trail

This is a road not a trail, but each year, countless cycles enjoy riding along the scenic M-22 highway from Onekama on north through Benzie County and into Leelanau County as they take in the views and small towns along the way.

Located in southern Manistee County as part of the Big M Recreation Area, the Big M Trail offers another great opportunity for mountain biking. This trail covers 16.9 miles and

M-22

THE BEST PLACES to spend a rainy day in Manistee

ERIN GLYNN VENTURE STAFF WRITER Unpopular opinion: I love summer thunderstorms. But there’s no question, rain can throw a wrench in your plans if you’re on a beach vacation. Luckily, Manistee has plenty to offer in terms of indoor entertainment. Here are some highlights: The Vogue Theatre Manistee’s neighborhood cinema still has its original neon signage and renovated interior from 1938, so no matter what film you choose to take in here, it will feel like an event. The Vogue has two screens: one in the Pure Michigan Theatre with 187 seats and one in the Oleson Family Theatre with 44 seats, so here are two film choices each week. Manistee County Public Library Curling up with a book while rain splatters against the windows is a classic activity for a reason and the Manistee Library is the perfect place for it. Even if you’re not a big reader, the library offers crafting and creative writing

activities for children and adults. If you’re elsewhere in the county, there are five other branches besides the main one. Library hours in Manistee are Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out the event calendar at manisteelibrary. org. Bowling If you’re not in the mood for anything quite so sedentary, the bowling alley is another fun option. Striketown Manistee is a 20-lane bowling center with a bar, food, pool tables and arcade games. It’s open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 6-10 p.m. Dempsey Manor A rainy day can also be the perfect opportunity to tour the historic Dempsey Manor, a 19th century Victorian house museum, built by lumber baron James Dempsey. The mansion itself is a work of art, but it also houses

Manistee’s Vogue Theatre boasts two screens. (File photo) antique furniture, paintings, sculpture and historical artifacts collected by James Colburn, a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Public tours are offered yearround. To arrange a tour, call the Dempsey Manor office at 616-802-4588 or email DempseyManor@yahoo.com. Browse local shops Another option is to explore

the local shops along River Street. Manistee boasts specialized shops for a variety of interests: cookware at The Ideal Kitchen, art and tchotchkes and Port City Emporium or books and puzzles at Happy Owl Bookshop. You can also just grab a cup of coffee at Goody’s Juice & Java or The Outpost as you wait for the downpour to let up.

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

The S.S. City of Milwaukee, a car ferry dating back to 1931, is one interesting historic location to visit in Manistee. (File photo)

5 HISTORIC SPOTS to visit in Manistee County ERIN GLYNN VENTURE STAFF WRITER

service from Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee. You can take a look around or stay for the night. The inn has a pool, boat slips and beach access and offers activities like sandcastle contests and shuffleboard. Visit www. portagepointresort.com/ for more information.

Manistee County has a rich history formed by people from Finnish immigrants to lumber barons to sea captains. Here are some interesting local spots. S.S. City of Milwaukee The S.S. City of Milwaukee is a car ferry dating back to 1931. The National Historic Landmarks program classified the ship as the “sole surviving example of a pre1940 ‘classic’-period Great Lakes car ferry.” She was retired permanently in 1982. Now, the ship is docked in Manistee and operates as a bed-and -breakfast from May through early September and a haunted attraction called Ghost Ship in October. Tours are also available throughout the summer. Visit www.carferry.com/ for information. Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts After the Scandinavian Opera House was destroyed by a fire, enterprising local attorney T.J. Ramsdell set about building a new source of entertainment for the county in 1902. The Ramsdell Theatre became a community arts center, home to the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee

Manistee County Historical Museum There are glass mosaics about Finnish mythology that are worth a trip if you’re visiting the Kaleva Bottle House. (File photo) Art Institute and an entertainment series. It’s where actor James Earl Jones got his start in the mid-1950s. The Ramsdell was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It now provides live shows, including music, theater and dance, as well as art exhibits and workshops from area teachers. Visit ramsdelltheatre.org/ for more information. Kaleva Bottle House The Kaleva Historical Musuem is a sight to behold. It’s inside a house built out of 60,000 bottles from the local bottling factory by John Makinen in the 1940s. Visiting hours are Saturdays and Sundays, Memorial Day weekend

28 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

through Labor Day weekend from noon to 4 p.m. To schedule a group tour contact Beverly Johnson at 231-362-2487. While you’re in the area, you can also take the chance to check out the nearby glass mosaic displays that harken back to Kaleva’s history as a town settled by Finnish immigrants. Portage Point Resort Portage Point Resort is a historic waterfront inn built in 1903. It’s located in Onekama, between the shores of Portage Lake and Lake Michigan. At the turn of the century, it was served by the steamships of the Northern Michigan Transportation Company, which provided direct

A list of favorite historical spots would not be complete without one of Manistee County’s own museums! The museum is housed inside the former building of the A.H. Lyman Drug Co., the consolidation of three of Manistee’s early drug companies, according to the museum’s website. The structure remains as it was in 1907 and the museum keeps a special pharmacy exhibit in remembrance of the store’s earlier history. Museum hours are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in January, February and March. From April through December, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find more information at www. manisteemuseum.org/ .

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Onekama will hold its annual Oenkama Days this summer, including fireworks on Aug. 7. The village will celebrate the sesquicentennial of the river channel and its post office, essentially the beginning of the village, from June through October. (Courtesy photo)

Onekama village plans sesquicentennial bash SCOTT FRALEY VENTURE STAFF WRITER

Onekama OneFifty website. A week before, the postmaster general appointed a postmaster to an office at the newly named village of Onekama. Hence, 2021 is the sesquicentennial anniversary of these two events.

The village of Onekama is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the opening of the channel from Portage Lake to Lake Michigan, the creation of Onekama’s first post office and the first Manistee County Fair. Local homesteaders took matters into their own hands when they tired of their conflict with the Porter Lumber Milling Company, whose dam at Portage Creek flooded their farmland. They illegally dug a small trench – by hand – from Lake Michigan to Portage Lake to lower the lake to its original depth. On the night of May 14, 1871 when the trench was completed, the water rushed out taking with it

Residents of the two-lake town aim to prove their community is still going strong.

Work on the Portage Lake channel continued in spring 2019; it began in spring 2018. Now, in 2021, Onekama is marking the sesquicentennial of the channel and the first post office in the village. (File photo) woods and sand. It also created a channel 500 feet wide and 12 feet deep. “The channel brought

30 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

great opportunity for the homesteaders and the mill and remains to this day an integral part of of the Onekama community,” according to the

To mark the occasion, organizers plan a months-long sesquicentennial celebration that kicks-off June 11 with the Lion’s Community Dinner and Settlers & Shoreliners Celebration. The banquet begins at 5:30 p.m. and will feature a presentation on local history, titled “Settlers and Shorelines.” Other activities planned for “Onekama OneFifty” celebrations include boat races and other

The fountain at Onekama’s Village Park has a rich history. It was once one of a pair that was placed in front of the Manistee County Courthouse in 1887. Following a fire it was relocated to the park in 1950. It was refurbished in 2019. (File photo)

recreational water activities, historic tours and programs, arts and cultural events and a gala dinner, culminating in a formal dedication of the Portage Lake channel to Lake Michigan. This summer also marks the return of the Onekama Block Party in July and Onekama Days events tentatively scheduled for the first weekend of August. The village of Onekama is one of northern Michigan’s best kept secrets. With easy access to Lake Michigan and Portage Lake, many know the two-lake town as a premier recreational retreat along Michigan’s renowned third coast. Onekama is the first town travelers come across heading

north on scenic M-22 and is a welcome destination for outdoor recreation near the Huron-Manistee National Forest. “I think there are a lot of sides to it that short time visitors don't see, and I think we're trying to celebrate the other facets of Onekama,” said Rosalind Jaffe, Onekama OneFifty Facilitator. “I think a lot of us come to Onekama as tourists or shortterm visitors and you see all the fishing, you see the ice cream shop and all the typical tourist things. Then as you spend time there and learn what else is going on, (with) the history of the area and the people who have been involved, I think it just makes you fall in love with Onekama even deeper.”

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10 OF THE AREA’S BEST dog parks, pet-friendly beaches

SCOTT FRALEY VENTURE STAFF WRITER

CENTRAL BARK, BENZONIA TOWNSHIP Dogs are free to run and play at Central Bark, an offleash area located at Memorial Park on South Street and Grace Roads in Benzonia.

It is located in the southeast part of the park behind Honor Bank. Benches are available in the fenced-in area, as well as doggie bags and a water station. The 30-acre park’s amenities also include a playground area, pavilion, picnic area, baseball fields, soccer area, restrooms, volleyball area, 9-hole disc golf and veteran's memorial.

LUDINGTON STATE PARK, LUDINGTON

Ludington State Park boasts roughly 3,000 acres of campgrounds and hiking trails accessible by pets, provided they remain on a leash. While dogs are not allowed on public beaches, they are able to swim at Sargant Sand Lake on Piney Ridge Road and at Lost Lake located near Beechwood Campground.

Magoon Creek in Manistee County offers secluded trails and approximately 2,000 feet of shoreline. (Michelle Graves/News Advocate)

MAGOON CREEK PARK, FILER TOWNSHIP CARTIER PARK AND PATHWAY, LUDINGTON

Cartier Park is a natural area located on Lincoln Lake in Ludington with a campground, picnic area, fishing docks, Central Bark dog park and the Cartier Park Pathway. The dog-friendly pathway, located at the corner of Bryant Road and North Rath Avenue winds throughout the park and is open in winter. Central Bark is a roughly two-acre wooded area fenced off in the park with a separate area for small dogs. 32 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Known for its secluded trails and approximately 2,000 feet of shoreline, Magoon Creek Park could be the ideal place for outdoor adventures with your four-legged friend. Trails for hiking and biking -- 1.5 miles in total -- run throughout this natural and accessible recreational area, located at 2925 Red Apple Road.

5. NORDHOUSE DUNES, NORMAN TOWNSHIP The 3,500 acre Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area is a welcoming destination for pet-owners along the western shoreline of Lake Michigan. Located in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, it is popular for outdoor activities and offers roughly 10 miles of trails along two developed trailheads. Nordhouse Dunes is one of two designated wilderness areas in Michigan’s lower peninsula.

Nordhouse Dunes is a welcoming destination for pet-owners along the western shoreline of Lake Michigan. (File photo)

6. NORTH POINT BEACH, ONEKAMA If you’re looking to cool off during the dog days of summer, then North Point Beach in Manistee County could be the ideal destination. Located on Lake Michigan in Onekama, North Point Beach is a place for anglers, beachcombers and dune hikers as well as their companions. Dogs are welcome in all areas of the park, but are to be kept on a leash. North Point Beach is at 2042 Second St.

LOOMIS STREET BEACH AND BOAT LAUNCH, LUDINGTON Located a short walk from downtown Ludington is the Loomis Street recreational area, which has a small pet-friendly beach area near the boat launch. Animals are allowed off leash along this beach area, but are not permitted in nearby Stearns Beach. The beach is at 998 W. Loomis St. at the end of Ludington Avenue.

SCOTTVILLE RIVERSIDE PARK, SCOTTVILLE Set alongside the Pere Marquette River is Scottville Riverside Park, a 30-acre campground and recreation area near Ludington. Dogs are welcome in the campground and may also go in the Pere Marquette River. Activities include basketball, volleyball, shuffleboard, horseshoes and an outdoor pool. An off-site boat launch allows those with kayaks and canoes to head out onto the river.

NORTH BEACH ACCESS, MANISTEE A secluded beach along Lake Michigan, Manistee’s secluded North Beach Access is geared toward pets, and dog owners are encouraged to bring their companions along for long walks. North Beach Access is located at the north end of Washington Street.

MASON COUNTY PARK, LUDINGTON Dogs can catch a frisbee at one of the disk golf courses at Mason County Park in Ludington. Mason County Park, off Chauvez Road near the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant, is the site for three 24-hole courses: Beauty (5,709 ft); Beast (7,093 ft); and Goliath (8,160 ft). No leash is required at the courses, but owners are asked to clean up after their pets.

10.

North Point Park features an ADA-compliant universal access walkway on its main loop. It’s also a great place for anglers, beachcombers and dune hikers as well as their companions. (Kyle Kotecki/News Advocate) VENTURE: SPRING 2021

FIND GOOD FOOD off the beaten path COLIN MERRY

VENTURE STAFF WRITER There are a lot of great places to eat in Benzie County, but there are a few off the beaten path visitors and residents might miss if they’re not looking for them. Here’s a few to get you started. Port City Smokehouse Located at the far east end of Main Street in Frankfort, opposite thebusy downtown, is Port City Smokehouse. Here diners can get out of the crowd and enjoy a variety of smoked meats as well as fresh fish for lunch and dinner, either carry-out or at one www.cdstapleton.com www.cdstapleton.com of the several tables outside the Wingz & Thingz offers 14 different wing sauces as well as a wide variety of “pub” food. (Courtesy photo) smokehouse.

Fried fish dinners include whitefish, walleye, perch, bluegill, lake trout and smelt, with a side of fries and coleslaw. Fish sandwiches are also available, along with clam strips, onion rings, fried shrimp and chicken strips. For those looking for something else, Port City Smokehouse also offers barbecue chicken, pork, beef brisket and ribs. True to its name, the smokehouse offers smoked fish, including whitefish and lake trout, but it is known for its smoked salmon.

PRICE PRICE REDUCED! REDUCED! Port City Smokehouse also offersfresh fish, jerky, housemade dips, snacks, salsa, frozen sea food and an assortment

Enjoy the Beauty of Benzie County! Historic Downtown Thompsonville

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34 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

OWNER/BROKER

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Farmers Market Mondays 3-7:00pm

5885 Frankfort Hwy • Benzonia, 49616 Special Event Calendar: GrowBenzie.org

of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Visit www.portcitysmokehouse. com for information an hours. East Shore 2GO Also located at the east end of Main Street in Frankfort is East Shore 2GO, the recently establishedexpansion of the popularEast Shore Market, in Beulah. East Shore 2GO focuses on deli sandwiches, the most popular being the Judy, which features ham, turkey, salami, roast beef, swiss and Colby cheese. Other popular subs range from Italian varieties, roast beef, turkey, ham and swiss and vegetarian offerings. Diners can request specific toppings, but the standard sub comes on wheat or white bread topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, hot peppers and Italian dressing. East Shore 2GO also has hot subs, like the Hot Vegan, Jarlsberg and turkey, pizza sub and Rome Kansas, which features roast beef and capicola, provolone and Colby cheese. Salads are dressed up in a variety of ways, such as chef salad, farmer salad, antipasto, house and Greek, which includes beets, Kalamata olives, artichokes and feta cheese with various vegetables. Reach East Shore 2GO at (231) 399-0049 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ eastshoremarket. Lighthouse Café Those looking for the classic diner experience can visit the Lighthouse Café in Elberta, just on the other side of the Frankfort-Elberta causeway heading south along M-22. Open for breakfast and lunch, the Lighthouse Café is known for its breakfasts; diners can create their own omelets or order omelets

Noodlez & Rice, a new food truck at Area 31 in Beulah, offers a variety of Asian cuisine. (Courtesy Photo) like the western, farmers, cornedbeef hash and cheese.

in stateside.

Other breakfast items include eggs, hash browns, sausage, ham, bacon in different combinations, as well as sweet-crème pancakes and French toast. Breakfast burritos and specialty hash brown dishes round out the breakfast menu.

Mary’s Asian serves uptwo main dishes, sesame chicken and adobo pork, both of which can be bought alone or with bacon fried rice and hand-made spring rolls. The sesame chicken tastes more like sesame than a sugary sauce, and the adobo pork has a unique pork flavor.

For lunch, the Lighthouse Caféserves up hamburgers, sandwiches like the club, Ruben and classic BLT, turkey and chicken wraps, soup and salad.

Mary’s Asian Cuisine also serves up rice noodles and vegetables, an Asian taco, an Asian steak stir fry pita, a steak sandwich and sweet potato fries.

The Lighthouse Café also has specials not found on the menu every day.

Visitors can order take out, or eat at several picnic benches.

For more information, search for the Lighthouse Café on Facebook. Mary’s Asian Cuisine Outside of downtown Beulah along U.S. 31 isMary’s Asian Cuisine, a little yellow food trailer that serves up Asian flavors. While the menu is small, the food isn’t quite like anything usually offered for Asian cuisine

For more information on Mary’s Asian Cuisine, visit their Facebook page. Area 31 Just down the road from Mary’s Asian Cuisine is Area 31, also located on U.S. 31, and home to a trio of food trucks that serve up anything diners could possibly want. Wingz & Thingz is well known for its14 different flavors of wing

sauce, eight of which are inspired by Asian flavors. However, that’s just the tip of the menu, as Wingz & Thingz serves around 60 different items, which includes hot dogs, pizza and barbecue, as well as a sizable selection of deep-fried treats, featuringfries, onions rings and cheese sticks, fried mushrooms, pickles, ravioli, and macaroni and cheese bites. Tacoz & Nachoz, the second food truck, can satisfy that craving for tacos, nachos, burritos and quesadillas, all with ground beef, chicken or steak options. The newest edition, Noodlez & Rice, provides even more Asian inspired offerings to the area, serving sweet and sour chicken, teriyaki chicken, Korean ribs, pepper steak, spicy garlic shrimp, lo mein noodles and several variety of maki rolls. Orders come with rice and a vegetable, but can be upgraded to come with fried rice. For more information, search for Wingz & Thingz on Facebook.

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

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Mon - Thurs 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

231-723-7206

423 Parkdale Avenue Manistee, MI 49660

www.linkesbodyshop.com

DINNING

36 36 MANISTEE MANISTEE NEWS NEWS ADVOCATE ADVOCATE

Free Inspections

“Come as a Guest, Leave as a Friend” VENTURE: SPRING 2021

“I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” - Robert Frost Are you a Brewmaster? Email MiBrewTrail@Hearst.com to learn more about featuring your brewery on the Michigan Brew Trail. 38 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

SUMMER SUMMER CONCERT CONCERT SERIES SERIES

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June 22: Wendell Harrison June jazz, 22: Wendell Harrison Classic R&B, Funk and Soul Classic jazz, R&B, Funk and Trio Soul June 29: Holly Maguire w/the Kevin O'Connell 2 en June 29: Holly u Maguire J w/the Kevin O'Connell J Trio une 29 Chicago Pop, Rock, R&B, Jazz and Blues Chicago Pop, Rock, R&B, Jazz and Blues July 6: Tell Yo Mama July 6: Tell Mama Pop, Yo Funk, R&B Pop, Funk, R&B July 13: Nick Moss Blues Band July 13: Nick Moss Blues Band Award Winning Chicago Blues and Funk Award Winning Chicago Blues and Funk July 20: Serita's Black Rose July 20: Serita's Black Rose Pop, Rock, R&B and Motown Pop, Rock, R&B and Motown July 27: Greg Nagy's Men of Leisure July 27: Greg Nagy's Men of Leisure All-Star Blues, Funk and Soul-jazz All-Star Blues, Funk and Soul-jazz August 3: Rodney Whitaker Quartet August 3: Rodney Whitaker Quartet World Re-known Jazz and Roots World Re-known Jazz and Roots August D Nonet Nonet August 10: 10: Planet Planet D Midwest’s “premier lil big band”, Jazz, Blues and Showtunes ewd Midwest’s iM “premier lil big band”, Jazz, Blues and Showtunes Midwes August Band guA August17: 17: Chris Chris Foreman's Foreman's Soul Soul Message Message Band Augu Chicago's and Soul Soul Band Band Chicago's Legendary Legendary Jazz, Jazz, Funk Funk and August U'Neek Soul Soul August 24: 24: U'Neek Authentic Funk, Soul, R&B and Motown Authentic Funk, Soul, R&B and Motown August Project August 31: 31: Headwinds Headwinds Blues Blues Project Blues, Rock and and Soul Soul Blues, Rock

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graphics: wayne bialik, aca | printing: jackpine business center

VENTURE: SPRING 2021

Venture Northwest 2021: Spring & Summer

Articles inside

Find good food off the beaten path

Onekama village plans sesquicentennial bash

visit in Manistee County

The bestplaces to spend a rainy day in Manistee

Top 5 biking destinations to celebrate summer

Top 6 Places to enjoy a sunset on the ‘gold coast

From paddlesports to outdoor sport oases

Thirsty? Manistee County has you covered

Five great hiking trails to check out this summer

Visit enchanting animals at Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm

Beaches abound in Manistee County

So you think you’re ready to rough it?