December 2012/January 2013 issue of The Guide by The Guide

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Snow or no snow GUIDEFEATURES

Jerry Nunn editor

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Snow or no snow? A frequently asked question these past few winters. For travelers headed north and for those of us looking for winter activity, the question has gained increasing importance. Fortunately, no matter what the answer, there is plenty to do in Northeast Michigan. Snow? Grab your skis and head for Corsair Ski Trails in Iosco County, Forbush Corner in Frederic or Roscommon’s Cross County Ski Headquarters. All boast meticulously groomed trails and some the finest Nordic Skiing you’ll find in the Midwest. In addition there are smaller, lesser-known,

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Works as well as faith Funding further education Collectors central Counting blessing Preserving Up-North Northern Light Pulling no strings Bikers 4 Kids The Baklava Shop

covering the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle and Roscommon December 2012/January 2013 Volume III, Issue 8 Published by: Info Northeast Jerry Nunn, editor (989) 780-0900 jnunn@infonortheast.com Contributing writers: Emily Cook, Wayne Lusardi, Jerry Nunn, Casey Ressl, Trisha Winn Schultz Contributing photographers: Jennifer Cady, Gary Gee, Alex Haugen, Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn, Artur Partyka, Scott Rains Advertising manager and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 snunn@infonortheast.com Layout and design: Kathy Neff (989) 848-0787 kneffphotographics@mac.com

Cover photograph by

Gary Gee - www.PhotographyUpNorth.com

Centerfold photography by

Jennifer Cady, Alex Haugen, Artur Partyka and Scott Rains

trails systems blanketing the area, presenting cross-country opportunity to last all winter. No snow? Don’t get discouraged. Slip on your hiking boots instead of skis. The panoramic views offered by Corsair Trails are as wonderous as ever, with or without snow, and most of those un-named trails traverse state land, remaining accessible regardless of snowfall. Snow? Grab your shanty and fishing gear and head for Houghton Lake, Fletcher Pond, Wigwam Bay, Mullet Lake or one of Northeast Michigan’s thousand other fishing hotspots. Waterways are one thing our region can always boast of. No snow? Switch to long rods. In our corner of the state we are free to brag about hundreds of miles of rivers, some of which remain ice-free all winter. The AuSable, the Rifle, the Black River and others contain stretches that can be fished year round. Double check DNR regulations, but all offer world-class angling opportunity. Snow? Grab your sled and a couple of kids (borrow them if you have to) then head for one of the hundreds of sledding hills that Northeast Michigan has to offer. There is nothing that will warm you in the middle of a cold winter quite like a child’s laughter. And what better way to

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

entice that joy than flying pellmell down a snow covered hill. No snow? Don’t return those borrowed youngsters just yet. Take them instead to Alpena’s Besser Museum or the Forest Visitors Center at Hartwick Pines State Park. Or head over to Gaylord Discovery Center. Or take in a movie, check out a library, visit a bookstore or stop by a pet shop (if the youngsters aren’t your own you may want to rethink that last suggestion.) Kids get cabin fever just like adults and the indoor winter activities will prove good for all. So there you have it. Snow or no snow, there is plenty to do in Northeast Michigan. Of course this list is far from exhaustive. We’ve not mentioned the newly invigorated Sunrise Side Wine and Hops Trail. Nor did we mention Kirtland Center for Performing Arts or Cheboygan Opera House. They have events spread throughout the winter season. And we never touched on art galleries, downtown shopping districts or the great little restaurants tucked here and there across Northeast Michigan. Snow or no snow? We’d much prefer the former, but either way we’ll keep busy this winter enjoying Northeast Michigan. Hope you do too.

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Holiday Cash Raffle, runs through Dec. 12 in downtown Gaylord; earn an entry ticket with every purchase at Gaylord merchants, prize drawing on Dec. 12. Info: (989) 732-4060 or www.ShopDowntownGaylord.com

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Dork Brothers Turkey Trot 5k Run/ Walk, annual holiday run at the APLEX in Alpena, registration costs $5-$30. Info: (989) 354-7314 5th Annual Hale Area Thanksgiving Dinner, 1-4 p.m. at Plainfield Township Hall, featuring turkey, ham, potatoes, dressing, all the fixings, desserts and much more; meal is free and all are welcome. Info: www.HaleYes.org Thanksgiving Dinner, 1-6 p.m. at American Legion, Luzerne. Info: (989) 826-5950 Thanksgiving Night Moonlight Madness, at Tanger Outlet, West Branch, stores open at 10 p.m. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com Thanksgiving Weekend Super Sale, at Tanger Mall West Branch, with discount pricing at 26 stores. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com 32nd Annual Christmas Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Inland Lakes School, Indian River, one of the largest craft shows in Northern Michigan; admission costs $2. Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com

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Christmas in Indian River, 5 p.m. in Indian River, with the arrival of Santa Claus, story time with Mrs. Claus, free soup and hot dogs, a tree lighting and more. Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com Sanders Family Christmas, a musical that runs through December 16 at Thunder Bay Theatre, with performances at 7:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday matinees, adults cost $14, military $12 and 18-and-younger cost $8. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com Thanksgiving Weekend Sale, Bean Bomb and Fashion Show, at Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, with A New Twist on Christmas, 3 to 5 p.m. at Besser Museum of Northeast Michigan, in Alpena, featuring Delynn Medina who will teach creative ways to make your own decorations allowing you to put your own twist on your holiday season. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org 4-H Auction, following the Holiday Light Parade, at the Mio Community Center. Info: (989) 826-1160 Snowmobile Safety Class, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Roscommon Township Hall on Knapp Road, sponsored by Houghton Lake Trailblazers, free lunch, pre-registration required. Info and registration: (989) 366-4838 Au Gres Christmas Party, 3 p.m. in downtown Au Gres with carriage rides, caroling, a parade, Santa Claus, hot cocoa and more. Info: (989) 876-6688

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Visit with Santa, at American Physical Therapy in downtown Mio. Info: (989) 8266830 or (989) 826-3331 It’s a Wonderful Life – a Live Radio Show, through Dec. 2, a Tawas Bay Players presentation by Joe Landry, with performances at 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday matinees at the Tawas Bay Playhouse on Newman Street in East Tawas; tickets cost $10. Info: or (989) 3628373 or www.TawasBayPlayers.com Talk Early and Talk Often, dinner at 5:30 p.m. and workshop from 6-8 p.m. at Tawas Bay Beach Resort, to support parents as the primary abstinence and sexuality educators of children. Info: (989) 343-1852 CASA Wreath Auction, one of Ogemaw County’s most popular benefit fundraisers, at Forwards Conference Center in West Branch. Info: (989) 345-0145 Irish Christmas in America, A CMU presentation, 8 p.m. at Cheboygan opera House, tickets cost $20 adults, $5 students. Info: (231) 627-5432 or www.TheOperaHouse.org Christmas in Mackinaw Kick-Off, in downtown Mackinaw City, with carolers, Tacky Tinsel Town Car Parade, Santa Claus and more, the start of whole host of Christmas center celebrations in downtown Mackinaw City. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.MackinawChamber.com

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Chuck Wagon Hayrides & Sleigh Rides, through the winter, featuring horse drawn

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adventures for groups and families with rustic chuck wagon dinner at Warblers Cove Resort in Lupton by the Royal Carriage Company of Hale; minimum of 12 people. Info and reservations: (989) 728-9038 An Adventure of a Lifetime, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Besser Museum of Northeast Michigan, in Alpena, a picture presentation with presenter Bob Skuse who shares his experiences in big game hunting all over the world. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org Moran Iron Works Holiday Celebration, and Fireworks 3-6:30 p.m. in Onaway, featuring hay rides, bonfire, refreshments, Santa Claus and more, concluding with a musical fireworks display at dusk. Info: (989) 733-2874 Winter View, at Art in the Loft Gallery, Alpena; Tues. through Sat. noon-6p.m. and Sun. noon-4 p.m., runs through March 7. Info: (989) 356-4877 Holiday Karaoke Contest, register at noon for this holiday song contest, at Alpena Mall. Info: (989) 356-9016 or www.AlpenaMall.com 10th Annual Gladwin County Festival of Lights, light parade, 6 p.m. in downtown Gladwin, with giant balloons, lighted floats, Santa’s arrival and more. Info: (989) 429-6565 or (989) 426-4547 Season Opener, at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, in Roscommon, weather permitting, with 19 kilometers of trails open by Dec. 3. Info: (989) 821-6661 or www.CrossCountrySki.com Alpena Farmers Market Indoors!, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Dec. 22 at Harbor Side Mall in downtown Alpena. Info: (989) 356-5995 Atlanta Christmas Tree Lighting, 7-8 p.m. at the Chamber Building in downtown Atlanta.

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Info: (989) 785-3400 or www.AtlantaMichiganChamber.com Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary School in Alpena. Info: (989) 358-5900 A Tawas Point Christmas, at Tawas Point Lighthouse, see the Victorian decorated lighthouse with tours of the lighthouse, shopping in the museum store, hayrides and more. Info: (989) 362-5041 or www.Michigan.gov/dnr Annual Christmas in the Village, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Maria Hall, behind St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Harrisville. Info: (989) 724-5107 Holiday Art and Wine Walk, in downtown West Branch, featuring local artists, with

entertainment, hors devourers, treats and more. (989) 345-5100 Christmas in the Village Drawing, 1 p.m. at Dragon Fly Art Gallery in Harrisville. Info: (989) 728-5411 or (989) 724-6642 Shop & Stroll, all day in downtown Gaylord, with Sweet Adeline carolers, in-store specials and more. Info: (989) 732-4060 or www.ShopDowntownGaylord.com Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. presented by West Branch Rose City Music Boosters Info: (989) 343-0823 Christmas Open House & Bake Sale, at the Arenac County Historical Museum, AuGres. Info: (989) 876-6399 Hillman Area Children’s Christmas Party, for Hillman area youngsters, with Santa, games, crafts and prizes. Info: (989) 742-2527 or www.BrushCreekMill.com 7th Annual Northern Lights Christmas Parade, 6-7 p.m. in Oscoda, starts at dark in downtown Oscoda. Info: (989) 739-7322 Oscoda Lion’s Annual Children’s Christmas Party, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Oscoda. Info: (989) 739-3911 Public Open House, 2-5:30 p.m. at AuSable River Center, Roscommon, with cookies, cocoa, coffee and door prizes. Info: (989) 275-4392 or www.Ausable RiverCenter.org Season of Light Exhibit, “Not a Creature was Stirring” theme, until Jan. 1 at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan. Info: www.BesserMuseum.org or (989) 356-2202

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Christmas in the Village, at the CRAF Center and downtown Roscommon, a hometown Christmas celebration. Info: (989) 275-8760 All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner, 6 to 11 p.m. at Elk’s Lodge in Tawas, hosted by Live Iosco Young Professionals, a benefit for Carol’s Baby Pantry; cost is $8 in advance at Tawas Area Chamber, $10 at the door, an item for the pantry required. Info: (989) 362-8643. It’s a Wonderful Life – a Live Radio Show, a Tawas Bay Players presentation by Joe Landry, with performances at 7 p.m. ThursdaySaturday and 2 p.m. Sunday matinees at the Tawas Bay Playhouse on Newman Street in East Tawas; tickets cost $10. Info: or (989) 362-8373 or www.TawasBayPlayers.com Christmas Open House, at Ye Olde Courthouse in Omer, with homemade candy, Christmas junque, decorated trees, wreaths and more. Info: (989) 876-6468 Christmas at McGulpin Point Lighthouse, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at McGulpin Point Lighthouse, celebrate the holiday with a tour of the lighthouse decorated for Christmas holiday and, if weather permits, ride a horse drawn sleigh at Headlands Dark Sky Park just up the road. Info: (231) 436-5860 or www.EmmetCounty.org/mcgulpin/ MXR Snow Cross Country, MX racing at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. Info: (517) 204-4944 or www.MXRRacing.com Mackinac Island Christmas Bazaar, at Mackinac Island Community Hall, with arts, crafts, meals and more, proceeds to benefits the

island’s churches and the Mackinac Island Medical Center. Info: (231) 392-9579 Sanders Family Christmas, at Thunder Bay Theatre, started Nov. 23 with performances at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday matinees, adults cost $14, military $12 and 18-and-younger cost $8. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com Pearl Harbor Remembrance Lecture, 2 p.m. at Alpena County Library with Gregory Adamus, attendance is free. Info: (989) 356-6188 A Christmas Wish, with the Arenac Choraleers, 7 p.m. at Ogemaw Hills Free Methodist Church, West Branch, an eclectic mix of traditional and secular Christmas music with the 70-member Standish-based choir; cost is $5 adults, $4 seniors and students, and $2 for youngsters 5- to 12-years-old. Info: (989) 846-9331 Potato Pancake Breakfast, by Knights of Columbus Alpena Council 529, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at K of C Hall on Hamilton Road, Alpena; $6.99 adults, $3 youngsters 6-12 years old, under-5 are free. Info: (989) 356-4646 All You Can Eat Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon the first Sunday of every month at The Cross in The Woods Family Center, with pancakes, sausage, ham, hash browns, eggs, toast and beverage; adults $7, $2 under 12. Info: (231) 238-8973 Christmas in Mackinaw, celebrate the holidays with a parade, blessing of the city, carolers, community bird seed tree decorating, deck the halls at McGulpin Point Lighthouse and more. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.MackinawChamber.com

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TOUPIN

Chiropractic Clinic

Computerized Evaluation and Treatment of the Spine

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Nutritional Counseling Cold Laser Massage Therapy Reflexology & Ion Cleanse

For more information: toupinchiropractic.com • (989) 348-4560 1406 S I-75 Business Loop, Grayling The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

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Tawas Community Band Christmas Show, 7:30-9 p.m. at Emanuel Lutheran School Gym, Tawas City. Info: (989) 739-2635 Public Open House, noon to 6 p.m. at Children’s Advocacy Center, 1185 North U.S. 23, Alpena. Info: (989) 340-0960 Project Blue Light, 7 p.m. at the APlex in Alpena, a memorial for fallen law enforcement and ceremony to honor those who serve, with candle and tree lighting ceremonies, refreshments and more. Info: (989) 464-0646 , Preschool Story Time, 10 a.m. at Au Gres Public Library, for ages 3-5. Info: (989) 876-8818 Cheboygan Hospitality Night, 4-8 p.m. in downtown Cheboygan, with holiday goodies, live music, one-night-only merchant specials and more. Info: (231) 627-7183 A Christmas Carol, 7 p.m. at Cheboygan Opera House, the fully staged version of Charles Dickens classic story, adults cost $30, students cost $12.50, reserved seating. Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.TheOperaHouse.org

18th Annual Christmas Tree Ball, 5:30 p.m. in the Interlude Ball Room, at the APlex in Alpena, with live and silent auctions, dancing with Tommy K Band, and a candlelight dinner at 7 p.m.; reservations requested, $60 per ticket. Info and reservations: (989) 356-7546 Lincoln Festival of Lights, at Lincoln Fire Hall, with hay rides, hot cocoa, hot dogs, Santa Claus and awards for outdoor decoration contest. Info: Open Roller Skating, 7-10 p.m. at Hillman Community Center, every Friday through Mar. 29; cost is $5 each or $15 per family. Info: (989) 742-4522 or (989) 255-6560 Farm by Lantern Light, at Wellington Farm Park, Grayling, a historical Depression-era farm park. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Painting Party, 6-8 p.m. at Enchantè Art Gallery in West Branch, come as you are, leave as an artist; scratch the lecture, lose the structure, as an artist walks you through the process and you leave with a finished painting. Cost is $35. Info: (989) 343-0227 or www.EnchanteGallery.com Continue the March, 2 p.m. at West Branch Community Center, featuring Jim Hodges, a former Black Ops member during Vietnam War, with his story of dealing with the after-effects of war, PTSD and his successful return to society. Info: (989) 345-2821 Ogemaw Child Protective Services, annual cookie fundraiser, 3-5 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge in West Branch, for $5 you pick 18 holiday-themed cookies and treats, with a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and activities for youngsters. Info: (989) 345-6222 Kid’s Day in Standish, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Standish, with crafts for kids and

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Open Mic Night, 6-8 p.m. the first Friday of every month at Flowers by Josie/Thanks A Lattè in Grayling, show your talent or sit back and enjoy. Info: (989) 348-4006 Ex-TREE-vaganza, 6 p.m. at Treetops Resort, a formal event, with live and silent auctions of exceptionally decorated trees and items for all seasons, cost is $65 per person. Info: (989) 731-0597

shopping for parents, with free crafts at participating stores. Info: (989) 846-7867 Free Massage Day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Saturn Book Sellers in Gaylord, enjoy a 10-minute chair massage with purchase compliments of Kneaded Relief. Info: (989) 732-8899 Kids Crafts at the Depot, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Historic Depot in Standish, part of Kid’s Day, with crafts and more. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Santa’s Helpers Activity Day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Alpena Mall, with lots of activities for youngsters including storytelling and cookie decorating. Info: www.AlpenaMall.com or (989) 356-9016 Learn to Ski for Free, 4 p.m. at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, Roscommon, Saturdays through March 2, weather permitting, one hour instruction for kids and adults, ski rental not included. Info: (989) 821-6661 or www.CrossCountrySki.com 2nd Annual Model Train Show and Swap, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Houghton Lake Eagles Lodge, with an operating exhibit, collectibles, workshops, clinics and more. Info: (989) 366-6614 or (989) 366-9136 Children’s Christmas Party, noon to 2 p.m. at Mio Moose Lodge, by Women of the Moose. Info: (989) 836-6081 Snowshoe Lacing Workshop, at Hartwick Pines State Park, lace a green mountain bearpaw snowsoe to take home, limited to 10 participants, cost is $175. Info: (989) 348-2537 All You Can Eat Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon at Roscommon VFW, with pancakes, sausage, eggs,

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hash browns, biscuits, gravy, toast and beverage; adults cost $6, youngsters 10-and-under cost $3, toddlers eat free. Info: (989) 275-4136 A Christmas Wish, with the Arenac Choraleers, 7 p.m. at Standish-Sterling Central High School, an eclectic mix of traditional and secular Christmas music with the 70-member Standish-based choir; cost is $5 adults, $4 seniors and students, and $2 for youngsters 5- to 12-years-old. Info: (989) 846-9331 Dickey Lee in Concert, a Christmas with Crime Stoppers event, 7 p.m. at Alpena High School auditorium, $16 in advance, $22 at the door, or $45 for a family. Info and tickets: (989) 354-4375 Alzheimer’s Discussion and Support, 2-3 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month, at Sand Road Senior Center, Cheboygan. Info: (231) 238-5165 Government Agency Breakfast Club, 7:30 a.m. at Paddle Inn Restaurant, hosted by EDA of Oscoda County. Info: (989) 826-5777 Christmas Choir Concert, 7 p.m. at Ogemaw Heights High School. Info: (989) 343-0823 Farm by Lantern Light, at Wellington Farm Park, Grayling, a historical Depression-era farm park. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Season of Light, Free Family Fun Day, noon to 2 p.m. at the Besser Museum of Northeast Michigan, in Alpena; join us for holiday related activities for the whole family. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org

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Dork Brothers Jingle All the Way, 4k Run, 5 p.m. at the APlex in Alpena, a costumed year-end celebration. Info: (989) 354-7314 John Cuthbertson Book Signing, 10 a.m. at Standish Depot, featuring the author of “The Mighty Rifle River” and former pugilist Cuthbertson and his new book about Michigan boxers. Info: (989) 7183021 or www.StandishDepot.org Holiday Arts & Crafts Show, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday at Alpena Mall. Info: (989) 3569016 or www.AlpenaMall. com Sleeping Beauty, by the Northeast Academy of Dance, 7 p.m. at Oscoda High School auditorium; adults cost $12, seniors $10, students $5. Info: (9989) 739-7955 or www.NEADanceMi.com A Christmas Story, 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, an original KCPA production set in the 1930’s, featuring the tale of allAmerican boy, Ralphie, and his Christmas wish for a Red Rider BB gun. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Snowshoe Workshop, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days with traditional skills specialist Jim Miller. A hands-on workshop weaving traditional white ash showshoes at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena; cost is $175 and class size is limited, REGISTRATON REQUIRED by Dec. 3. Info and registration: (989) 356-8805 ext. 38 Gift Wrapping Fundraiser, available most days 1-5 p.m. at

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Tanger Outlet Center, West Branch, offered at mall center office by area non-profit organizations. Info: (989) 3452594 or www.TangerOutlet.com/WestBranch Winter Lecture Series: The History of Hartwick Pines State Park, 2 p.m. at the Michigan Forest Visitors Center in Hartwick Pines State Park, Grayling. Info: (989) 348-2537 Barton City Holiday Light Contest, at the Barton City Improvement Association. Info: (989) 736-3401 All Bands Christmas Concert, 7 p.m. at Johannesburg-Lewiston High School Gymnasium. Info: (989) 786-2293 or (989) 732-1773 Depression Era Church Service, 7 p.m. at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, featuring a period specific service in the relocated Stittsville Church. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org

the contact station just inside the main entrance. Info: (989) 348-2537 Christmas at the Victorian, noon to 4 p.m. at the Victorian Café in downtown Hale, with horse carriage rides, lunch, scavenger hunt and other activities for the kids, animal exhibits and more. Info: (989) 728-9038 or (989) 728-0027 MXR Snow Cross Country, at Otsego County Fairgrounds. Info: (517) 204-4944 or www.MXRRacing.com New Year’s Eve on Mackinac Island, with great meals and rocking parties in the island’s downtown pubs. Info: (800) 454-5227

strip canoe, canoe is raffled as an AuSable River Center fundraiser. Info: (989) 275-4392 or www.AuSableRiver Center.org Symphonic Lightfoot, a Gordon Lightfoot tribute with symphony, 7:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Opera House; reserved seating, adults cost $18, students cost $12.50. Info: (231) 627-5432 www.TheOperaHouse.org Painting Party, 6-8 p.m. at Enchantè Art Gallery in West Branch, come as you are, leave as an artist; scratch the lecture, lose the structure, as an artist walks you through the process and you leave with a finished painting. Cost is $35. Info: (989) 343-0227 or www.EnchanteGallery.com FunDeMentals, a Rifle River Folkstrings presentation, part of their 2nd Annual Concert Series, at the Northeast Michigan Art Center, Standish; tickets cost $7 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students and $2 for youngsters under 12. Info: (989) 846-9331 Swan Lake, 7 p.m. at the Cheboygan Opera House, Tchaikovsky’s classic presented by the Russian National Ballet; reserved seating costs $38 adults, $12.50 students. Info: (231) 627-5432 www.TheOperaHouse.org 20th Annual Mackinaw City Winterfest, featuring amateur snow carving, outhouse races, sleigh rides, poker walk, chili cook-off, indoor ice skating, euchre tournament, hot cocoa, 3-on-3 hockey, games for kids and adults and more. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.mackinawchamber.com 63rd Annual Tip Up Town USA, one of Northeast Michigan’s premier winter festivals, with ice fishing contests, antique snowmobiles, vendors, carnival, family

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Tubing, Skiing and More, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, with special rental pricing, $15 lift ticket, $10 tubing with reservations recommended. Info: (989) 3489266 or www.HansonHills.org

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Horse Drawn Wagon Rides, at Carefree Ranch in Fairview. Info: (989) 826-1160 Full Moon Snowshoe Hike, 7 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, meet at

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Hale YES! Winterfest, centered at Plainfield Township Hall with events all over town, including fishing contest, outhouse races, snowmobile drags, antique snowmobile show and swap. Info: (989) 728-4278 or www.HaleYes.org Guided Snowshoe Hike, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Michigan Forest Visitors Center, Hartwick Pines State Park. Info: (989) 348-2537 Canoe Building Classes, 7-9 p.m. every Tuesday through May at AuSable River Center, 211 North Main Street, Roscommon, no fee, no registration, just show up and learn to build a wood

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fun tent, beverage tent, polar bear dip and more. Info: (989) 366-5644 or www.Tip-Up-TownUsa.com Cote Dame Marie Ski Loppet, Nordic racing event for everyone at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, with citizen and junior races as well as 15k and 30k Michigan Cup series events, with awards to follow at Grayling Ramada Inn. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.GraylingNordic.com After Work Snowshoe Hike, 5:30 at Hartwick Pines State Park, meet at the Mertz Grade Trailhead off Bobcat Trail. Info: (989) 348-2537 63rd Annual Tip-Up-Town USA, continues on the following weekend at the south Houghton Lake DNR Access Site with carnival, sculpture contest, stage shows, family skate night, petting zoo, polar bear dip, beverage tent, entertainment and much more; button cost is $6, good for both weekends. Info: (989) 366-5644 or www.HoughtonLakeChamber.net Guided Snowshoe Hike, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Michigan Forest Visitors Center, Hartwick Pines State Park. Info: (989) 3482537 Winter Lecture Series: A Conversation with Nels Michelson, 2 p.m. at the Forest Visitors Center, Hartwick Pines State Park. Info: (989) 348-2537

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at the Eagles Lodge in Gaylord, a breast cancer fundraiser with contests, food, entertainment, banquets and a 60100 mile ride. Info: www.PinkRibbonRiders.com 63rd Annual Tip-Up-Town USA, at the south Houghton Lake DNR Access Site with carnival, sculpture contest, stage shows, family skate night, petting zoo, polar bear dip, beverage tent, entertainment and much more; button cost is $6, good for both weekends. Info: (989) 366-5644 or www.HoughtonLakeChamber.net Elvis Birthday Bash Dinner Show, 8 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, with Scot Bruce and Mike Albert with a live biographical concert; tickets cost $30 and $35. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com 23rd Annual Quilt Show, at Northeast Michigan Arts Center, Info: (989) 846-9331

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swims, ice sculpture contest, family tent, hospitality tent, tween dance and more; Entry button cost $5. Info: (800) 55-TAWAS or www.Tawas.com Learn to Ski for Free, 4 p.m. at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, Roscommon, Saturdays through March 2, weather permitting, one hour instruction for kids and adults, ski rental not included. Info: (989) 821-6661 or www.CrossCountrySki.com 2nd Annual Souper Bowl Supper & Art Show, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Oscoda High School commons; a school fundraiser where the bowls are purchased by donation and soup cost $5 for adults and $3 for youngsters. Info: (989) 739-2033 or www.OscodaChamber.com

26-27:

February 1-3:

Camp Warm Hearts, grief camp for youngsters and teens who have experienced the death of a loved one, aged 5-15, sponsored by Hospice of Helping Hands and MidMichigan Home Health Care; REGISTRATION DEADLINE is JAN. 14. Info: (989) 343-3551 or www. HospiceOfHelpingHands.com 63rd Annual Perchville USA, centered at the state dock in East Tawas with off-site events including chilli cook-off, fishing contest, lawn mower and bar stool races, polar bear

While all attempts of accuracy have been made in producing this calendar it is always a good idea to call ahead before heading out on that three hour drive north.

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Works as well as faith

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• Blinds & Draperies • Free In Home Estimates • 25 Years Experience • Installation

Gladwin County Community Thanksgiving comes courtesy of God’s House, with plenty of help from Steve and Lori Freund By TRISHA WINN SCHULTZ special to The Guide

GLADWIN COUNTY – Steve and Lori Freund are perhaps most visible selling baked goods outside local grocery stores. But it’s behind the scene at God’s House, a local charity the Freunds founded, where the couple works hardest. Since 2009 God’s House has hosted Thanksgiving and Easter Dinners for all who attend. It is a day of fellowship, food, and the good will of volunteers. Steve and Lori met in 2007 at Cedar River Chapel. Hearing of a homeless family living in a city park – mom, dad and three children

s to: n o i t dona e d n e S ous e H s ’ God eid Lan 624 8 R MI 4 163 , n i w 7 Glad 426-354 ) (989

under the age of five – with no home, no car and no food, the Freunds took food to the hungry family. When the recipients gave part of it away to others in need, the gesture caused an epiphany for Steve Freund. Freund realized there was great local need and God’s House was born. For the first Thanksgiving dinner, in 2009, God’s House partnered with the United Way of Clare and

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

Gladwin Counties. More than 80 volunteers showed up and 200 people were fed. The mission has grown since then, purchasing four truckloads of food in 2011 and seven so far in 2012. (Half-a-truckload of food from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan costs the organization $700.) God’s House fed more than 325 people this Easter, including deliveries to shut-ins and others unable to attend the event. While Easter and Thanksgiving are the big events for God’s House, the organization helps all year through Community Connection and Walk for Warmth. The Freunds get calls from Mid Michigan Community Action, as well as from people in Clare and Ogemaw Counties who need assistance. They have also worked with Good Shepherd Christian Fellowship in Wooden Shoe and Cedar River Chapel in Beaverton, among others. As for the Freunds, they don’t take any credit. They give it all to God and publicize their work only “to inspire others to help,” said Steve. He believes that work and love are more powerful than preaching. Though most of their mission is feeding the hungry, the couple also worked in disaster relief in the spring of 2011 when a string of tornados ripped through the Midwest. Learning of the destruction in Joplin, Missouri, Steve says the Holy Spirit moved him. By noon the next day, he was on his way to Missouri with a van full of supplies and gas money donated by Gladwin County locals. While in Joplin, Steve saw a man who lost both legs in the tornado only five days earlier, volunteering at a distribution center. Several men with broken limbs asked for walking casts and were cleaning up debris

God’s House Thanksgiving Dinner will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Gladwin, noon to 4 p.m. with a fundraising auction and bake sale. Dinner begins at 1 p.m.

church with the Freunds, says that what the couple does “means a lot.” “At the drop of a hat, they just jump up and go,” Mason said. Steve and Lori say they’d like to help after hurricane Sandy’s

within a week. Steve also met a man from the Southwest who brought a trailer full of chainsaws and $500,000 to aid in the clean up. What the Freunds witnessed in the tornado’s aftermath

touched him so much that he and Lori went on through Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky, following in the wake of those late spring storms. Steve and Lori hope to cultivate a similar work ethic in local youth and paid out-of-pocket for dozens of tickets to a youth group conference before raising money for the trip. James Mason, who attends

destruction along the East Coast but right now their priority is local need. They have no reliable vehicle at this time in which to travel for disaster relief. Besides, with holidays coming up, God’s House is busy fundraising and planning more food truck orders. Those who would like to help can contact God’s House.

Help God’s House make this a great community Thanksgiving. To volunteer at their Thanksgiving Dinner, show up Thanksgiving Day at the Knights of Columbus Hall. People will be there starting at 6 a.m. and work will continue until 7 p.m. Those unable to attend but needing a hot meal and fellowship, please call (989) 426-3547.

The 23rd Annual

Snowbox Derby

Old Orchard Park River Rd., Oscoda, MI Gates open at 10 a.m. Racing begins at Noon For more info visit:

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g n i d n u F further education By JERRY NUNN editor

MACKINAW CITY – College bound graduates at Mackinaw City High School learn one thing for certain: They begin their careers in higher education with the full support of their community. It is Audie’s Restaurant that teaches the lesson. For more than 20 years now, the second-generation, family-owned enterprise has enticed kind-hearted supporters of education to give unselfishly toward local student’s college education. Come January 19, the opportunity to support those students will arrive again at the Audie’s Scholarship Ball, a formal affair that has become the social event of the winter season and the highlight of Mackinaw City Winterfest. Money raised at the Scholarship Ball will go to local students. Best of all, every student who applies for a scholarship receives assistance. “We’ve given $73,850 in scholarships to date,” says Katie Kosorski, Audie’s manager. “It usually amounts to $300 to $500 per student. Every student who applies receives something.” Much of that comes from 10

For more information about events at Audie’s Restaurant, including Christmas specials, dinner theaters, wine tastings and the 2013 Audie’s Open, check the web at www.Audies.com

the evening’s live and silent auctions, offering everything from fishing bait, seafood and restaurant certificates, to spa packages and hot air balloon rides. “One year we had a trip to the top of the Mackinac Bridge,” said Kosorski. “We get some really nice stuff to auction off. A lot of business owners donate to that and that helps make it a very successful fundraiser.” Last year seven students received $550 each, according to Loretta Martinek, administrative assistant for

hotos

courtesy p

Mackinaw City Public Audie’s Scholarship Ball Schools. When: January 19, 2013 “It’s a pretty good Where: Audie’s Restaurant scholarship. For such a small community, they What you’ll find there: heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, live entertainment, generate a lot of money,” live and silent auctions and more, all in a Martinek said, noting formal atmosphere to this year’s theme of the many other efforts “Polar Nights – Total Whiteout.” townsfolk undertake Cost: $50 per person to support student Info: (231) 436-5744 or www.Audies.com endeavors. “It has been an ongoing effort. For a Scheduled as it is in mid-winter, small community and held in conjunction with of 800 or 900 people, they Mackinaw City Winterfest, the are responsible for raising Scholarship Ball offers a perfect thousands of dollars for opportunity for locals to “kick up students.” their heels,” said Heather Tamlyn, the group sales and marketing Audie’s Scholars hip Ball serves lo cals with the chance to sh manager for Arnold Transit ow off their fash ion and enjoy some great food Company. as Tonya Fegan, Veronica Dobrowolski, Ka Most of the men wear tie Kosorski and Heather Tamlyn demonst rate. Meanwhile suits or tuxedos. , the ball’s auctions provide scholarship mon “Most of the girls get ey for Mackinaw City’s college-bound hi gh school pretty decked out, for graduates. Mackinaw City anyhow,” says Tamlyn. “Katie and her crew do a tremendous job of transporting their guests somewhere else.” Transporting guests elsewhere refers to the evening’s theme – this year it is “Polar Night’s – Total White Out.” Decorating for the event takes a week’s preparation, according to Traci Voltz, bartender at Audie’s. “By the end of the week, we’re all

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

While Audie’s Scholarship Ball is the social event of Mackinaw’s long winter, it is also the highlight of the city’s annual Winterfest celebration.

Mackinaw City Winterfest 2013 When: January 17-19, 2013

Where: downtown Mackinaw City and various venues What you’ll find there: Fishing contest, euchre tournament, snow sculpting, outhouse races, chili cook-off, poker walk, sleigh and wagon rides, art exhibit and more. Cost: A $2 festival button gains entry to most activities Information: (888) 455-8100 or www.MackinawCity.com

exhausted,” said Voltz, noting that labor comes before, after and during their regular work shifts. “By the time the weekend finally gets here you’re ready to let loose and party.” Others apparently share her assessment; crowds range around 100 people, with plenty of room for more, Voltz said. “The food, the drinks, the ambiance - it is amazing,” says Voltz. “No one is ever disappointed. It’s a great night.” In addition to the Scholarship Ball, Audie’s Restaurant also hosts the Audie’s Open golf tournament, another opportunity to raise money and help local students realize their college goals. As the events have grown, the focus has changed slightly, from helping this year’s batch of graduating students to building an endowment fund that will perpetuate the gifts for students in the future. Funds are administered by the Straits Area Community Foundation. Even beyond the annual ball and the golf open, Audie’s secondgeneration owner Nick Jaggi is known around town for his contributions of food or money when community needs arise

elsewhere, according to Voltz. “Nick leads by example, so it’s never a big deal doing extra for him,” Voltz said. “He’s the most generous person I know.” Then again, Mackinaw City’s college-bound graduates have already learned that.

Located on Nicolet Avenue, at Interstate 75 exit 339 and one block from the Mackinac Bridge, Audie’s Restaurant offers family dining in The Family Room, casual upscale dining in The Chippewa Room, as well as cocktails and relaxation in The Welcome Lounge. Known as Downing’s in the 1950’s the restaurant has been a fixture for as long as the Mackinac Bridge has spanned the straits. In 1974, thenowners Edgar and Audrey Jaggi changed the name to Audie’s Restaurant. Their son, Nick Jaggi now operates the restaurant and prepares the food.

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ollectors entral

Since retiring from Cheybogen high school 16 years ago Lanny Shepard has devoted his time to Crystal Gates Collectibles and Unique Gifts.

Eager auction-goers never know what they’ll find at Crystal Gates Collectibles and Unique Gifts

By JERRY NUNN editor

antique store. Centrally located on the former showroom floor is an auction block where twice a month the auctioneer’s voice calls out, moving stock for Shepard and who ever else has brought stuff in. “You never know what we’ll

CHEBOYGAN – To call Crystal Gates Collectibles and Unique Gifts a well stocked antiques store would be a serious understatement. Housed in a former Plymouth automobile dealership, owner Lanny Shepard has packed the place to overflowing with memories of yesterday. With sales offices full of comic books, a repair shop stocked Where: Crystal Gates Collectibles and with household goods, Unique Gifts a central office full of videos and maritime 240 South Main Street items filling alcoves Cheboygan and crannies, you could When: 2 to 4 p.m. December 2 and 16, wonder where Shepard then twice a month finds it all. And that’s not mentioning the stuff What you’ll find: Hard telling from that’s too large or bulky week to week – nearly anything may to fit inside. go. Popcorn and refreshments are “If you don’t find always available. As far as items on the it here they probably auction block, tools, maritime items, didn’t make it,” says furniture and household goods prove Jim Weiss. A regular fixture around Crystal popular and are frequently offered. Gates, Weiss brings For more information: (231) 597-8121 in his own stuff to sell on consignment. “I’m here just about every Sunday.” have,” said Shepard. “People bring The Sunday attraction that Weiss stuff in all the time. In the auction finds here is what sets Crystal Gates we get a lot of tools, automotive, old apart from your run of the mill stuff,” Shepard said. “It’s hard to tell

Catch an auction

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

photos by The Guide staff

what you’ll find.” A former marketing teacher at Cheboygan Area High School who retired 16 years ago Shepard has been interested in sales his entire life. Owning an antique store merely allowed him to combine that interest with his love of anything old. Most weeks the crowd numbers around 60, but as many as 90 people have attended. “A lot of our customers are diehards,” said Shepard. “Of course, in the summer we get people from Ohio and downstate who are up for the season.” While the auction proves popular with customers, it pays benefits to Shepard as well. “A nice thing about an auction is you don’t have to set a price,” said Shepard. “It’s fun. By the time I cover expenses I might break even. One week we only sold half the stuff. That’s terrible, but by the time I counted it all up it was our best day of the year.” Chief among the things you’ll find offered are those from Shepard’s own inventory – everything from automotive, furniture and maritime items to household items and kitchen wares. “Sometimes people just drop

things off,” Shepard says. “I’ll come in and there will be something sitting in front of the door and I say to myself, ‘Well, I wonder who left that?’ But people want to see something used. They don’t want to throw it away if there is any life left to it.” From that sentimental standpoint, feelings are the same as they ever were says Jack Matthews, a self described “picker” who owns P.J.’s Parlor, another antique store in Cheboygan. He says people have never wanted to throw things away if there

Floor to ceiling, inside and out Crystal Gates is brimming with memory-invoking collectibles.

was any use left in them. “In the old days, you’d load up two barrels of garbage to take to the dump and come home with a pickup load of stuff,” said Matthews, 80. “People set things aside because they new someone could use it. Those were the good old days for

pickers.” While Matthews works as a ringman at Shepard’s auctions, he freely admits that he “buys too much stuff there” and says that the auctions at Crystal Gates are well run. “Auctions are compulsive. You see something you want and you don’t care what the cost is,” he said. He also said the size of the audience is just about right at Crystal Gates – not so large that you can’t get a bid in, but large enough to build some excitement. “You get two people who want the same thing and then you’ve got yourself an auction.” And for all the uncertainty in the antique business, an auction is one thing you’re sure to find at Crystal Gates Collectibles and unique Gifts. “That’s the best thing about this business,” Shepard said. “It’s fun. It’s a lot of fun.”

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O N S

Y L L A R T

F I R dD

The only winter road rally on the Rally America circuit When: January 25-26, 2013 Where: Headquartered in Atlanta, passing down the snow-covered back roads of Montmorency County through Hillman and Lewiston. What youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find there: Real cars, real fast, on real roads (did we mention itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on ice and snow?) The Sno*Drift Rally is the first event of the 2013 Rally America Championship series, with the Sno and the Drift Regional rallies running concurrently. In addition to the Sno*Attack rally for two-wheel drive automobiles.

Photos courtesy of: Jennifer Cady, Alex Haugen, Artur Partyka, and Scott Rains.

What you will need: The Sno*Drift Rally is an exciting spectator event and those who view the race often participate by pushing the cars back onto the slippery roads. The rally runs back roads and spectators are encouraged to bring drinks, snacks and to plenty of warm clothes. Also, this being Northern Michigan, G.P.S. is often undependable making a paper map a necessity. For more information about the race: www.Sno-Drift.org For information on accomodations and supplies: www.LewsitonChamber.com www.AtlantaMichiganChamber.com www.ThunderBayResort.com

O N S

Y L L A R T

F I R dD

Photos courtesy of: Jennifer Cady, Alex Haugen, Artur Partyka, and Scott Rains.

Counting conservation blessings - ref lections on a successful year

By CASEY RESSL

project manager at Huron Pines

I welcome winter’s return, I find myself in gratitude for the good fortune we are blessed with in Northeast Michigan – forests that hearten generosity and compassion, lakes that bring an abundance of joy, rivers and streams that inspire peace and goodwill and most of all, amazing people who volunteer and support conservation efforts. Huron Pines had the good fortune to engage hundreds of those amazing volunteers in 2012. From building rain gardens to removing invasive species, volunteers spent thousands of hours serving their communities and the environment.

Huron Pines also had 14 AmeriCorps members serving with 12 different organizations. In total, the AmeriCorps members volunteered nearly 18,000 hours of service this year. This time was spent supporting environmental education efforts in schools, leading conservation workshops in local communities, implementing handson restoration projects and reaching out to engage additional volunteers. Huron Pines also launched the Ambassador program. We’ve long had a need for more people to help out with projects. So with our mission of conservation in mind and a desire to get more accomplished,

we’ve recruited and provided some assistance to individuals willing to volunteer on an ongoing basis. For the Ambassadors, it’s a great way to volunteer in a role that is very meaningful, to learn new things and make use of their skills and talents, and to meet others who share similar interests in helping Northeast Michigan. We feel privileged to have such great partners on board. As we look to the year ahead, we begin laying the groundwork for more volunteer opportunities and continuing successful avenues to service like AmeriCorps and the Ambassadors programs. Look in the next issue of The Guide for more information on 2013 volunteer events. It does take funding to develop

In addition to Huron Pines’ AmeriCorp service members, and the organization’s Ambassador volunteer program for specific, long-term projects, the organization’s conservation projects attract volunteers from all walks life. While making good use of their talents, those volunteers lend irreplaceable labor towards Huron Pines conservation efforts.

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

and implement community conservation projects. For every $1 contributed by individuals and groups within Northeast Michigan, Huron Pines has leveraged an additional $10 from grants outside of the region, a tremendous return on investment. As we reflect on what we are grateful for this year, we ask that you consider making a contribution to support conservation in Northeast Michigan. With our ability to leverage your gift into more support, we all will be able to benefit from more on-the-ground success stories like those you have been reading about this year. Learn more at www.HuronPines.org or call (989) 448-2293 ext. 21.

Preserving the “Up North” you enjoy A personal reflection

By EMILY COOK HeadWaters Land Conservancy stewardship coordinator

I’ve

always considered myself to be a westerner. The majority of my childhood was lived within an hour of Lake Michigan. As I grew older, the distance between my home and the water’s edge grew shorter. College reduced the driving time to thirty minutes and later, a family move to Frankfort meant that a car wasn’t even necessary. I could hear the waves crashing along the shore from my bedroom window. I moved to Gaylord in the heart of winter to begin my service as a Huron Pines AmeriCorps member with HeadWaters Land Conservancy. To say I was

unfamiliar with Northeast Michigan would be an understatement. My experience with Lake Huron consisted of views from the Mackinac Bridge and I could narrow down the location of Otsego County to “somewhere near the tip of the mitt”. Soon, I was nourishing my passion for the environment with everything the east side has to offer – things I had been missing out on for most of my life. During my short time in Northeast Michigan, I have witnessed a passion for our natural resources on a very personal level, usually overlooked while speeding along Interstate 75. The further I travel east, the more I feel like I have been transported into a different part of the country. Relatively flat land transitions into rolling, forested hills - a rare sight in the Lower Peninsula, roadside pull-offs offer scenic views of river valleys and if you’re lucky, you might cross paths

with the elusive elk herd. Part of my service with HeadWaters Land Conservancy includes working with volunteer land monitors to inspect land that has been placed in a conservation easement. In other words, the land is so special, the landowner has decided to protect it in perpetuity. They may have river frontage along the AuSable, wetlands harboring an abundance of wildlife or a strong cultural history. Regardless, these lands and waters are protected from development forever. As a volunteer land monitor, one is able to see firsthand why these places are worth protecting. If you are paying attention, the aforementioned reasons for appreciating this part of Michigan are obvious; treasures hidden on private land are less so. In recent months I have had the opportunity to wander forest paths one landowner compared to sights he saw on a recent trip to Alaska. Earlier, a glance into a small pond revealed a dozen painted turtles coming to the surface in anticipation of a handful of bread crumbs. Whether it is a stand of tall pines planted forty years ago by a husband and wife or a stone memorial in remembrance of one’s love for the land, each conservation easement holds a unique value, not just to the landowner but for everyone who values a healthy Michigan landscape. I am proud to say that now, nearly nine months later, I can identify the location of every single

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county in Northeast Michigan. I would be able to tell a visitor that it takes approximately thirty minutes to drive from Grayling to Gaylord, perhaps a little longer if you travel along the more scenic back roads (which, by the way, I would be able to point out.) I no longer label myself as a westerner, but rather just a Michigander; one who has a love for all of this state’s special places. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer land monitor at HeadWaters Land Conservancy, call (989) 731-0573 or email, ecook.americorps@gmail.com.

Northern Light Granting exceptional access photos

courtesy of Thunder Bay Sanctuary Research Collection

CAFFEINE FREE

Location: Less than .25 miles south of Thunder Bay Island Latitude/Longitude: 45 01 58/83 11 30 GPS: 45 01 89/83 11 90

The 211 foot Northern Light spent its early career hauling passengers and freight on the Great Lakes. Later it was reduced to a tow barge.

By WAYNE LUSARDI special to The Guide

Although there are thousands of shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, very few are visible from the shoreline. The Northern Light in Harrisville Harbor is an exception. Built as a passenger propeller for Leonard Hanna and Hiram Garretson of Cleveland, Ohio,

the 211 foot long Northern Light featured an 86-foot long gentlemanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabin with 23 staterooms, and a 36-foot long ladies cabin with 10 rooms. The ship could accommodate 100 passengers and 300 tons of freight. On one particular trip, up bound through the Sault locks in April 1862, the Northern Light carried 5 tons of ground feed, 500 barrels of flour, 50 barrels of beef, 75 barrels of pork, 20 barrels of lard, 8,000 pounds of butter, 1,000 pounds of cheese, 12,000 pounds of candles,

The Guide â&#x20AC;˘ December 2012 / January 2013

7 barrels of apples, 1,575 pounds of dried fruit, 9,200 pounds of sugar, 12 bags of coffee, 18 chests of tea, 95 bushels of vegetables, 50 barrels of salt, 9 barrels of vinegar, 1,200 pounds of tobacco, 108 kegs of nails, 100 tons of merchandise, 70 barrels of lime, 4 packages of window glass, 2 tons of hay, 34 head of cattle, 7 hogs, 175 pieces of furniture, 1 wagon and buggy, 38 barrels of liquor, 2,000 pounds of malt and 40 passengers. By the early 1870s the once glamorous passenger freighter was

r t t o B

1 N

reduced to a was eventually Northern Light abandoned in tow barge for Vessel Type: wooden tow barge place. the lumber trade Dimensions: 211 by 30 by 11’ Reduced out of Green water levels on Bay, Wisconsin. Gross Tonnage: 857 In October Lake Huron in Built: 1858 by Lafrinier and 1880 the recent years have Stevenson, Cleveland, Ohio Northern Light revealed several Lost: October 1880 was driven large sections ashore at of wreckage in Harrisville and was badly damaged. Harrisville Harbor. Portions of the The ship remained partially sunk at stern deadwood featuring mortises the dock for nearly a year. for the cant frames are located In September 1881 a second parallel to shore near the boat storm completed the destruction of launch. A large section of curved the badly rotten hulk. bow is located a bit further offshore According to the Alpena Weekly in deeper water. Argus (9/21/1881: 3), “The barge Not far away are the remains of Northern Light which sunk in the a large section of hull consisting Colwell [Harrisville] harbor here of dozens of frame sets and the about a year ago, had all broken to overlying hull planking. All of the pieces this morning, and fragments wood is white oak and a variety of of the wreck were coming ashore.” fasteners including spikes, drift pins, Attempts to salvage the ship and bolts can be seen protruding were made but lifting chain ate from the timbers. through the hull and the ship While the lake water level

The wreck of the Northern Light lies exposed in Harrisville Harbor offering rare opportunity to view a freighter’s remains from shore.

remains low the wreckage is susceptible to damage, yet affords a unique and accessible opportunity to view a historic treasure from our maritime past.

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While serving on committees that set archery industry standards, Marv Long rubbed elbows with Fred Bear and other leaders of the sport, earning the owner of TaylorMaid Archery Products a rightful place among those legends. By JERRY NUNN editor ROSE CITY – Marv Long doesn’t have to pull any strings. After 40 years in the fast changing archery industry, the commercial maker of bow strings understands the continued importance of what he does. “Bow strings are something you just don’t think a lot about, but without it all you have is a stick,” Long says. “We can make anything. We’ve made everything there is to make in the world in the way of bowstrings.” Long doesn’t regret his choice of careers but it has keeped him on his toes. “Manufacturing bowstrings is a crazy business,” Long said. “It’s never been a cash cow, as far as the industry. Now it’s a changing world out there. You have to keep up or you get lost. “You work all year round and sell all your product in three months,” he said. From the days of long bows, then recurves, to compound bows and now crossbows, the industry has gone through plenty of change over the past four decades. As the owner of TaylorMaid Archery Products, Long, 74, has seen it all. He began selling bows and manufacturing strings back in the early 1970’s, when archery as a sport was in its infancy and he once owned three

the history that Long brings to the sport as equally significant. “He was involved with all the big name archers, the guys who built this industry,” Claerhout says. “He’s got the history of Fred Bear. Marv has photos of himself with all the old archers.” According to Long, he “got in

archery stores in the metro-Detroit area. “I had these stores, met this guy named Fred Bear and I became pretty well known in the industry,” says Long, noting he served on specification committees for the national Archery Manufacturers Organization and later on the Archery Trade Association. From those committee positions Long was instrumental in setting industrial standards where none had existed. The meticulous attention to detail that allowed him to successfully serve the industry also paid off with TaylorMaid Bowstrings, according to Paul Claerhout, owner of Rose City’s former Pink Store and a regular bow Marv Long, owner of TaylorMaid repairman. Bowstrings in Rose City, with a small “His strings are sample of his archery collection. With excellent quality. I use forty years in the archery industry, them all the time,” Long has ties to Fred Bear and other said Claerhout, who legends of the industry. had stopped by for three bowstrings which with Fred Bear at the tail end of were made on the spot. A regular his life. He was a hell of a guy, a customer here, depending on his needs, Claerhout says he often stops different sort of person. He was unique, as down to earth as a guy by several times a week. “What’s could be.” nice is, if he doesn’t have what I When Long started commercial need, they just make it for me.” production Bear Archery had While quality of product is 65-percent of the world’s bow sales, important to Claerhout, he counts

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

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around March and they’ll start filing their orders. “Right now everyone is in the woods,” she said. “They’ve got everything they need. This time of year you’re trying to get out your orders for next year.” As comfortable operating a computer and taking orders as she is running equipment, Phillips says the work is “different. “It’s not something most people know anything about.” And Marv Long is not “most people.” Long made his first bowstring at Boy Scout camp in 1954. After completing requirements for his rifle badge early in the week, Long turned his attention to archery and earned a most-improved certificate. His interest in archery was further instilled when, as a low-seniority electrician at Ford Motor Company’s Dearborn Tool and Die Plant, he was refused time off for rifle deer season. “My supervisor said ‘You’re not getting a vacation. I have 28 years and I can’t get that time off,’” Long said. “I went out and Sherry Phillips finishes a bowstring got my bow and I for a custom order, a service fell in love with the TaylorMaid provides for customers sport.” who stop by the shop in Rose City. Originally located

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in Wyandotte, Long moved his TaylorMaid Bowstring operation to Rose City in 2006. Now housed in the former U.S. Post Office, Phillips or Long are there most days taking care of business or filling custom orders. The move was not without setbacks. Long had a stroke four years ago. While he has physically recovered, business suffered while he was off work and he says he’d sell TaylorMaid Bowstrings if he received an offer. “It’s been an interesting life,” Long said. “ I’ve met a lot of really great people. It’s an interesting business but archery has changed a lot in the 40 years that I’ve been in it.”

according to Long. “When I started you could fit every string manufactured on this one shelving unit,” Long says, motioning towards a two-sided, 7-by12-foot rack, and three more units the same size just beyond. Nearly all their shelves are now stocked with standardsized bow strings and still that inventory is not enough – TaylorMaid employees often custom manufacture the strings they are called on to supply. Long’s history is reflected in the shop’s equipment as well. Bowstrings are made in lengths ranging from 12 inches to 110 inches long, and accurate to an eighth of an inch, according to Phillips. In addition, with modern crossbows and compounds, there are many different strengths and configurations. Spools of string fill one rack, in a variety of colors of materials. “We make a lot of two color strings,” she said. “We make a lot of green and black or green and tan strings. We make red and white. We’ve had people who wanted red, white and blue.” While turning machines show their age, they are well maintained and impeccably tuned and visitors here can easily imagine the hum of the busy season, when the assortment of sewing machine and standard drill motors are in constant operation. “This is actually our slow season,” says Sherry Phillips, TaylorMaid’s only year-round employee, who is joined by three to five others when full production is underway. “Now we are working on 2013 pricing. We send those out

f1.5 milesg Kittle Road

Highland Lumber

3 miles north of Mio on E. Kittle Road

693 E. Kittle Rd., Mio, MI 48647

989-848-8000

a well-known national organization was more active in the area, Foster said. While locals gave to that group in abundance, Foster says there was a perception that the group collected here but distributed toys elsewhere. “People want to keep their money and donation’s local,” said Burdick. “We get told that a lot. It doesn’t matter if it’s toys, or cancer research or what have you. People want to know their donations are Bikers 4 Kids, Santa traded in his red suit doing some good.” for a leather vest and swapped his sleigh for As soon as Bikers 4 Kids became a rumbling motorcycle, and while the long white beard is established folks saw the value of optional, he still delivers g ifts to kids on Christmas. what was planned. “It took off right away. It grew By JERRY NUNN pretty fast at the beginning,” said known. editor Dave LaCross, a former member “That’s the big thing – the kids. who helped found B4K. Seeing a kid’s eyes light up for WEST BRANCH – You’d think LaCross describes “the steep Christmas? That’s what it is all that a record attendance at the 11th learning curve” group members about,” agrees founding member Annual Christmas Fundraiser dinner Mark Foster, sergeant of arms for faced getting B4K up and running, and auction would be compensation the group. “It’s the kids that got us and the hard work and long hours enough for the 40-orthat went in to their earliest so members of Bikers fundraisers. Nonetheless, he 4 Kids. After all, the figures the group’s focus on event comes after youngsters helped inspire months of hard work those early efforts to organize – rounding up prizes, while attracting supports as finding auction items, well. planning a menu and “I guess you’ve got to face lining up entertainment. it, it probably kept us going Of course you’d be or made us work harder,” wrong about that. LaCross said. “It’s easier to Even giving their courtesy photo raise money for kids than it is hard earned cash to for retirees. When it comes to B4K president Bob Burdick presents the ATV package Christmas for Kids, kids, people want to help.” to this years raffle winner Gerald Jones of Alger. supplying fuel cards to Early efforts at fundraising included an annual biker rodeo parents of hospitalized but that event was abandoned after it youngsters and helping out folks started in the first place.” became unprofitable, LaCross said. who’ve met with emergency is not It was 16 years ago that Bikers More recently, that summer event the reason for being for these guys for Kids started supporting has been replaced with a motorcycle and gals. youngsters in Arenac County, ride. These big hearted bikers receive according to Foster, owner of Other fundraisers include a their reward on Christmas morning, Dean’s Bait & Tackle in Alger. motorcycle raffle, and this year, for by delivering presents to kids who Around eight years ago the group the first time, the raffle of an ATV, would otherwise be without gifts. grew to include Ogemaw County complete with trailer, rifle and gun “To see the looks on these kid’s and this year, for the first time, scabbard. faces. That’s our reward right there. group members say they hope to “Those raffles are very popular There is absolutely nothing like serve children in Gladwin County because we limit the ticket sales,” it,” said Bob Burdick, president of as well. Bikers 4 Kids, or B4K as it is better Back when Bikers 4 Kids began, Burdick said, noting only 3,500

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

tickets are printed for the road bike and 5,000 for the ATV. “This is not like the lottery. We try and make it fair. We sell the tickets for $10, which seems like a lot, but we limit the numbers. People stand a real chance of winning this thing.” Still, the annual Christmas Party, remains the biggest fundraiser of the year. For the cost of $10 people get a great meal, entertainment, live and silent auctions, door prizes and plenty of good times. “We feed roughly 250 people,” Foster said. “We have the auction, the gun raffles, the ATV raffle, anyway we can get in your pocket. “We even do a loser’s gun where, at the end of the night we pick one ticket from the losers and they win a gun,” Foster said. “Everyone wants to be a loser that night. “You tell people you’re raffling off guns and they step right up. It’s not that hard to sell tickets,” he said. B4K vice president Mike Babcock, says people “don’t have any idea the amount of time that goes into this.” Nonetheless he says it is time well spent and, by the time the receipts are totaled this year’s Christmas fundraiser should be the biggest ever. “We had a lot of new faces and we saw a lot of people who were not necessarily bikers,” Babcock said. While B4K members reap the rewards of Christmas gift delivery, members give credit to the local business and individuals who generously give. “If it wasn’t for the businesses we couldn’t do it,” Foster said, noting the group gets product donations as well as money. “A lot donate food or help in other ways. Of all we asked only one said no, and that was only because they just couldn’t do it this year.” From its earliest days B4K has limited assistance strictly to youngsters, often taking the form of help after a house fire or fuel cards

to help deal with a child’s medical emergency. B4K also gives about $4,000 each to the Christmas for Kids organizations in Arenac and Ogemaw Counties, according to Foster. But it is during Christmas that the giving becomes more personal, when group members fill the wish lists of kids who would have not gotten a visit from Santa. Whenever possible B4K tries to grant the kid’s specific Christmas wishes, and then deliver the wrapped gifts on Christmas Day. Once the Christmas spirit takes hold, it’s nearly impossible to stop the spirit from growing, says Tam Foster, the group’s treasurer and Mark’s wife. “It just fills you up,” says Tam, telling stories about gift deliveries. “Mom comes to the door, she’s crying, she’s hugging us. She knew we were going to do something but she had no idea how much we would do. Meanwhile, we’re standing there with an arm load of Christmas presents.” “You can’t describe how that makes you feel,” she said. “Really. The amount of appreciation in helping a family like that, especially when they have little kids? There is nothing in the world that could make you feel better than that.”

There’s never been a better time to visit.

Over 50 wildlife mounts from around the world on display now! 491 Johnson St., Alpena, MI

(989) 356-2202 www.bessermuseum.org

Support Bikers 4 Kids Write: Bikers 4 Kids P.O. Box 105 Alger, Mi 48610 Call: (989) 836-2460 Visit: www.B4Kac.com Or stop by: Deans Bait & Tackle Located on state highway M-33, one half mile north of I-75 exit 202

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When: January 4-6, 2013 Where: Centered at Plainfield Township Hall, with events at Iosco County Fairground and all around town

What you’ll find: Friday: Kick-off Dinner at The Eagles Club Saturday: Fishing contest, snowmobile drags, outhouse races, antique snowmobile show & swap, chicken shuffle, Wii bowling, dance, princess party, cutest baby contest, cutest pet contest, chili cook-off. Sunday: Pancake breakfast, bump & run, woman’s expo Cost: Buttons cost $7 in advance, $10 at the door and grant admission to all events Info: (989) 728-4278 (989) 728-3665 or www.HaleYes. org

When: January 18-20 & 25-27 Where: at the DNR Access Site, on the south shore of Houghton Lake, with parking at Houghton Lake High School and a free shuttle service to the festival site What you’ll find there: Medallion hunt, family skate night, petting zoo, fishing contest, family tent, fairy tale wedding, sculpture contest, snowmobile radar run and drag races, stage shows, polar bear dip, beverage tent, live entertainment and more. Cost: Entry buttons cost $6, good for both weekends Info: (989) 366-5644 or www.HoughtonLakeChamber. net

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

When: February 1-3, 2013

Where: centered at the State Dock in East Tawas, with events taking place around town

What youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find there: kick-off dinner, chili cook-off, free fishing contest, lawn mower and bar stool races, ice sculpture contest, parade, three polar bear swims, family tent, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;tween dance, hospitality tent and more. Cost: Entry buttons cost $5 Info: (800) 55-TAWAS or www.Tawas.com

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It was about five years ago, the girls said, when mom started coaxing them into giving her a hand around the kitchen. “At first she had us doing little things,” Sarah said. “Then it was ‘Come on, don’t you want to help?’ Then we just started doing things ourselves.” As it is with baked goods, freshness is crucial, so once an item is sold out for the day it is no longer available. Nonetheless, the well stocked bakery cases always contain some selection of fresh made cookies, cupcakes, shortbread or their ever popular baklava. Aside from family recipes, ideas for new menu items come from old cook books and elsewhere, according to Chrissy. “Mostly, it’s whatever we have around the kitchen that we think will taste good,” she said. Finding those items seems to a thing these girls have the knack for. It’s a knack that’s backed up by tradition. Fortunately for customers of The Baklava Shop.

Georgette Prince prepares a tray of the family’s signature baklava, the sweet and flaky Mediterranean dessert that her shop is becoming known for. Photos by Jerry Nunn

The Baklava Shop in Atlanta offers straight-from-the-kitchen family heritage. Chrissy and Sarah Prince with a selection of daily offerings at The Baklava Shop.

By JERRY NUNN editor ATLANTA – The Prince girls live to share their Lebanese traditions. Fortunately for us. For a little more than a year now Georgette Prince and her daughters, Chrissy and Sarah have shared their love of baking with folks in Montmorency County and beyond. Among those Prince family traditions is baklava, the sweet and flaky Mediterranean desert that Georgette learned to make from her grandmother, or “gitto” as the matriarch was called in her native Lebanese. That scrumptious offering is central to the menu at The Baklava Shop, where it joins other fresh baked items such as short bread, cookies, cupcakes, as well as lunch specials, salads, wraps and more. A first generation American born in New York, Georgette spent time in Lebanon during her youth, where 26

her family traditions were further instilled. She moved to Atlanta with her husband, the late Roger Prince in the late 1980s and worked for her brother Claude Freije at his restaurant, The Dinner Table, before opening The Baklava Shop. “Baklava is our heritage,” says Georgette. “My mom made it. My grandmother made it. My uncle was a baker. Maybe it’s in our blood.” Taste any item of your choice at The Baklava Shop and you’ll agree that baking certainly comes naturally to these ladies. It also comes with some hard work and long hours and both Sarah and Chrissy work second full time jobs, starting their days well before dawn. “I try to get in here around five,” says Chrissy, who also works at Montmorency Abstract. “I try to give myself three hours before I have to go to work.” As if toiling in front of a hot oven, preparing the daily special and baking delectable confections is not hard enough work. Each Friday morning The Baklava Shop offers fresh doughnuts and Wednesday visitors find a “heat and eat” lunch special that ranges from pot pie or chicken

dinner to a recent turkey and stuffing dish that Chrissy said tasted like “a whole Thanksgiving dinner all in one bite.” “The lunch specials go over well,” Georgette said, noting the menu depends on what’s fresh and locally available. “The idea is to use what we can get fresh. We’re not serving lunch meat here. We ask our customers for feedback because we want to know how we’re doing, too, and so far it’s all been good.” Georgette says she couldn’t do it without her daughters and credits them with doing “90-percent of the work.” “They do all the baklava, the cookies and the cupcakes’” she said. In some respects, work at The Baklava Shop is divided with Chrissy specializing in cookies, Sarah baking the bars and cupcakes, and mom keeping up with the bookwork. Georgette also covers daily operations with the help of family friend Zac Weaver. In other respects, all tasks need to be done and none of the three are opposed to pitching in when a fresh batch of baklava needs to be prepared or some other tasks need completing. Of course when you’re doing what you love, the work is more The Baklava Shop pleasurable. Tuesday – Thursday: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. “This is fun,” said Friday, with fresh doughnuts from Hillman BP: Sarah. “Baking is what 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. we grew up with, if not Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. actually making things Closed Sunday and Monday then at least enjoying the (989) 785-5438 things our mom made.” www.TheBaklava Shop.com

The Guide • December 2012 / January 2013

It’s pretty hard to beat a warm bowl of soup on a cold winter day. At Lewiston’s Iron Kettle, proprietor Karen Warren depends on that reality to bolster her family style restaurant’s reputation. There you’ll find a wide selection of hearty soup offerings among the fresh made menu items. Served as Soup of the Day or on the salad bar, several have become standouts to Iron Kettle customers including these:

Karen Warren’s cabbage soup

Mike’s stuffed pepper soup

1 - head of cabbage, cut in wedges 1 - whole celery, chopped 6 - large onions, chopped 2 - green peppers cut up 1 - 16 oz. can stewed tomatoes 1 - envelope dried onion soup mix 1 - 16 oz. can beef broth

6 - medium green peppers, cut into 1/4 inch cubes 2 - 16 oz. cans diced tomatoes 2 - cups prepared minute rice 1/2 - gallon chicken stock (base or bullion) 1 oz. - garlic powder 1/2 oz. - black pepper 1/2 oz. - salt to taste

Cover with water; bring to boil for about 10 minutes and continue to simmer 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until veggies are tender. Top with your choice of a dollop of sour cream or fresh grated parmesan cheese. Serves 10-12. While Warren regularly watches over her restaurant’s daily operations, she doesn’t do it all herself. Mike Kresevich, chef at Iron Kettle and Warren’s right hand man, offers this stuffed pepper soup. It has proven to be another customer favorite.

Mix together peppers, chicken stock and seasonings bring to slow boil until peppers are tender, then add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, return to a low boil and add the rice. Makes 10-12 servings. Designed for commercial quantities, these recipes serve a whole crew of hungry skiers, frozen fishermen or bonechilled sledders. While leftovers freeze well, ingredients can be decreased proportionally for smaller quantities.