The Guide Feb/March 2012 issue by The Guide

INDeX

7.................Creative playground 8.................Big industry 10...............Sweet scholastics 12...............For the love of curling 14...............Mackinaw: A tale of two cities 16...............Brewing up history 17...............Modern Craft 20...............Conservation Corner 23...............My time with writer’s club 25...............The Shred Shack 26...............Northbound Outﬁtters 28...............Rent-a-Sled 30...............Gladwin County Recreation Area 32...............Simply Gourdgeous 34...............High risk heart health 35...............From Tim’s kitchen

covering the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle and Roscommon February/March 2012 Volume III, Issue 1 Published by: Info Northeast Jerry Nunn, editor (989) 780-0900 jnunn@infonortheast.com Contributing writers: Lyn Behnke, Matt Friday, Dennis Mansﬁeld, Kristy Mortham, Garrett Noyes, Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn, Jon Paul Roy Contributing photographers: Gary Gee, Dennis Mansﬁeld Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn, Andy Oberdick Advertising sales and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 snunn@infonortheast.com Layout and design: Kathy Neff (989) 848-0787 kneffphotographics@mac.com

The

Guide

BY JERRY NUNN editor

Everybody has a story to tell, or so the old adage goes. I could not disagree more. My experience tells me that most folks have more than one. Take Tom Moran for instance. The Onaway native has built Moran Iron Works into a major industrial force for Northeast Michigan, bringing highquality jobs back to the region while shipping gigantic steel fabrications all over the globe. You’ll read more about Tom and Moran Iron Works later on, in this issue of The Guide. As well you should. Anyone bringing work to Northeast Michigan deserves their space among these pages.

Everybody has a story

Yet, chances After wandering around eight counties of lower are good that Northeast Michigan for the past year-and-a-half, The you are already Guide is broadening his horizons clear to the Mackinac aware of Bridge. Starting in this issue our coverage area grows Moran. He’s to 13 counties, reaching a local population of 250,000 the guy who while reaching out to folks beyond the region. constructs For us, that is major news. But we think it is big news those huge for Northeast Michigan as well. metal Our feelings have not changed. Nor have three of our sculptures you boundaries: Lake Huron to the east, to the south the Big City, with the I-75/U.S. 27 business corridor deﬁning see scattered our west. about Presque We still say that the abundant natural beauty and Isle County solitude of Northeast Michigan remains in many ways and beyond. unmatched. Just as we realize it is our shared value Often of a patriotic theme, system and our common struggle that allows us to overcome adversities that are in many ways unique. that art work Mostly we know that by sharing stories that inspire is well worth us, inform us and keep us up to date on the success a story of its of our neighbors across the fence, down the road and own. As is the in the next county over, we grow a connection that Tom Moran strengthens us all. who supplies And above all, we welcome our new friends to the equipment, north. materials and There is a lot we have in common. guidance to high schools Yet that tale is only part of the across the north, so they may story. run metal shop programs of their Money raised by sales of the own. And so too, is the Tom maple syrup fund other student Moran who encourages local endeavors as well. Like the entrepreneurial start-ups, that student whose class project they may succeed in business produces the bio-diesel used and bring greater vitality to their to cook that sap to syrup. Or communities, just like he has. another who raises trout and One man, each worthy of a sells the fresh processed and story all his own. vacuum packed fish to folks in Want another example? the community. Or a different How about agriscience teacher class project all together, that has Brian Matchett, over at Alcona students raising, processing and High School. You’ll read about selling 200 chickens every year. Matchett’s students here as well, During a 20-minute about how they produce 200 conversation, Brian Matchett gallons of maple syrup annually challenged me with more student in a sugar shack out behind their high school in Lincoln.

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

-inspired stories than we can possibly write. And it doesn’t end there. Gladwin’s Rick Seebeck takes on a personal project to create a public Nordic ski trail in his hometown. Yeah, we have that story, but while talking to Seebeck we learned his community-minded family operates its own non-profit foundation to be sure good works can be sponsored all across Gladwin County. And did I mention that Seebeck is superintendent of the same school district he graduated from? The rarity of that situation, of a homegrown leader guiding the school system that he experienced firsthand as a student, has to bring an immeasurable value to Gladwin Community Schools that is not reflected in the financial particulars of Seebeck’s employment contract. As The Guide begins to explore our new Northern region, and continues his trek across lower Northeast Michigan, we will revisit Moran, Matchett, Seebeck and others we’ve already heard from to gain insight, find our way around and better define those guy’s stories. And we’ll be looking for new stories too, and you can help. Hear a good story? Tell it to us and we’ll share it with all. Because, as that old saying goes: Everybody has a story.

Northeast M ichigan Calendar of Events February/ March 2012 Feb. 1-March 10

Hot Reads for Cold Nights, at Otsego County Library, a reading program for adults with a chance to win prizes. Sign up anytime. Info: (989) 732-5841 or www.OtsegoCountyLibrary.org

Every attempt at accuracy has been made while producing this calendar of events. Nonetheless, events can change or mistakes can be made. Thus, it is never a bad idea to call ahead, before heading out on that three hour drive north.

February 1-March 10

Winter View at Art in the Loft, downtown Alpena, with more than 30 juried artists, Tuesday-Saturday noon-6 p.m., Sunday noon noon-4 p.m. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org

February 2

Open Mic Night, 6-8 p.m. at Flowers by Jose and Thanks A Lattè, in Grayling, featuring any talent. Info: (989) 3484006

February 2, 9, 16, 23

Snowshoe Hike on the Bobcat Trail, 1 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, meet at the Mertz Grade Trailhead a two hour trek for experienced snowshoers, 1 p.m. Info: (989) 248-2537 or www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines

February 2-5

The Sunshine Boys, a Neil Simon comedy, at the Thunder Bay Theater,

Alpena, with all shows at 7:30 p.m. except Sunday’s 2 p.m. matinee; tickets cost $14 adults, $8 under-18 and $12 military. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheater.com

February 3-4

Traditional Outdoor Skills Demonstration with Jim Miller, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Alpena, native Michigan outdoorsman Jim Miller, a leading advocate on the study and application of traditional door skills, with birch bark canoe building, hunting and trapping gear. Info: (989) 356-8805 ext. 38 or ThunderBay.noaa.gov

February 3-5

62nd Annual Perchville USA in the Tawases, this year to the theme of Luau on the Lake, with events happening all over town including a chili cook-off, a family tent, polar bear dip, fishing contest, parade, Old Tyme Movie, horse-

THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

drawn carriage and more. Buttons cost $5. Info: (989) 362-8643

Winter Fun Days at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, featuring free lift tickets, plenty of competitions and events, with a D.J., chili cook-of, swim suit slalom, snow box sled race and much more. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org

February 3-March 9

Basic Grant Writing Workshop, 1-3 p.m. at University Center in Gaylord; cost is $180, 20-percent discount to Gaylord Chamber members. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.GaylordChamber.com

February 4

5th Annual Winterfest in St. Helen, 11 a.m at Richfield Township Park, featuring a medallion hunt, bon fire, snowman contest, fishing contest, ice rink, outhouse race and more. Info: 9989) 389-3725 or www.SaintHelenChamber.net

National Wild Turkey Federation Annual Hunting Heritage Banquet, doors open at 5:30 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall in West Branch. Info: (989) 345-2821

Winter Challenge, at Ogemaw Sport and Trail, in Rose City, a combination drag race and hill climb, open to all off road enthusiasts. Practice runs start at 10 a.m., racing starts at noon. Info: (989) 685-2999 or www.OgemawTrails.com

Big Air Competition at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, a part of the Cold Sweat Series for ski and snowboard, prize packs to top three in 12-and-under and 13-and-up, point series competition with live music in the lodge, cost is $20 for each competition. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org

Soup & Sandwiches, 4-7 p.m. at Mio Masonic Lodge. Info: (989) 826-6419

Huron Pines Annual Meeting, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. Tickets cost $10. RSVP to jill@huronpines.org. RSVP to jill@ huronpines.org. Info: (989) 344-0753 or www.HuronPines.org

2012 Alpena Business Expo, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the APlex in Alpena. See what’s new for 2012 with businesses, vendors, book sales, door prizes and more. Admission is free. Info: (989) 354-3111 or www.The AlpenaNews.com

February 4-5

Mackinaw Mush, downtown Mackinaw City, an ISDRA sanctioned event, featuring dog sled races, with four, six and eight dog categories. Info: (231)

436-7334 or MackinawMush.com

February 4 & 18

Guided Snowshoe Hikes, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, Grayling, trek through old growth forest, featuring a bon-fire and hot cider, limited to 20 people; State Park Permit required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537 or www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines

February 5

Lady’s Night Out, St. Paul’s Hall in Onaway; costs is $15 purchased in advance, 733-2700

February 7-28

Basic Lighting for Digital Workshop, a four-part series, 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays at Art in the Loft Gallery, Alpena, with Gerald Schulze of Aperature Studios; students need a digital SLR camera, cost is $60. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org

February 9

Alpena Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, 5:30 p.m. at the Alpena Event Complex, Alpena; tickets cost $30. Info: (989) 354-4181

February 10

Open Mike, second Friday of every month at Comins Community Center, pot luck at 6:30 p.m. music starts at 7:30. Info: (989) 848-2756

February 10-11

February 11-12

February 11

February 12

Alpenfrost, a first time event in downtown Gaylord, featuring ice skating, chili & hot wing cook-off, polar plunge, snowman building contest, ice sculpting and more. Info: (800) 3458621 or www.Alpenfrost.com 12th Annual Friends of Carp Lake Ice Fishing Tournament, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Carp Lake south of Mackinaw City, with $900 in prizes to the three heaviest fish in three categories. Application avaialable at Clyde’s Bar, pre-register at Carp Lake General Store or check the website. Info: (231) 537-2182, (231) 330-3427 or www.ParadiseLakeAssociation-Mi.org Cross-Country Ski by Candle Light, 6 to 9 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, experience the magical glow of Michigan’s largest old growth forest. State Park permit required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537 or www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines

True North Radio Network’s Winter Concert Series, featuring Tommy K, and the ultimate Rock n’ Roll tribute; 6 p.m. at The Interlude Ballroom, in the Alpena Events Complex; tickets cost $7. Info: (989) 354-4611 or www.AlpenaNow.com

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

Thunder Bay Classic Sled Dog Race, 11 a.m. at Alpena Sportsman’s Club; multiple classes of racing including skijoring, weight pull and junior classes, featuring a spaghetti dinner on Saturday for $6 each or $15 per family, and karaoke at 7 p.m. Info: (989) 379-3668 22nd Annual Snow Box Derby, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Old Orchard Park, eight miles west of Oscoda, featuring creative cardboard contraptions in downhill competition, with tobogan race, kids games, bon fires, food, prizes and more. See this issue’s center fold. Info: (989) 739-7322 or OscodaChamber.com

February 13

Sunrise Creations Winter Art Show, at the Medical Arts Building in West Branch. Info: (989) 343-3690

February 16

S.A.F.E. Series: First Aid Basics, 11 a.m. at Crawford County Commission on Aging and Senior Citizens, with paramedic Matt Larson, of Mobile Nedical Response. Presentation is free, pork roast dinner to follow at noon cost $4.75 for those under-60, suggested donation of $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 348-7123

Valentines Day Dinner, 4-6 p.m. at Crawford County Commission on Aging, cost is $4.75 for under-60, suggested

donation of $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 348-7123

Inaugural meeting for the Pigeon & Sturgeon River Habitat Project, 6-8 p.m. at Livingston Township Hall, Gaylord; RSVP to jill@huronpines.org. Info: (989) 344-0753 or www.HuronPines.org

February 17

Slope Style Competition at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, a part of the Cold Sweat Series for ski and snowboard, prize packs to top three in 12-and-under and 13-and-up categories, point series competition with live music in the lodge, cost is $20 for each competition. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org

February 17-18

Winterfest 2012, Roscommon’s celebration of winter, with fishing derby, ice skating, crazy cardboard classic, kid’s carnival, ice slide, horse drawn wagon, broom ball competition and more. Info: (989) 275-8760 Big Chill in Topinabee, family fun on Mullett Lake, with ice skating, food, kids activities and more. Info: (231) 238-9578

February 18

7th Annual Banquet of the Northeast Michigan Branch Quality Deer Management Association, doors open at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 at the Alpena Events Complex, with games, raffles,

door prizes and more; tickets cost $50 per person, $70 per couple or parent with child, $20 youth, includes dinner , drinks and one-year membership. Info: (989) 727-2594, (989) 727-2700 or www.nemiqdma.com Detroit Red Wings Alumni vs. The Alpena Flyers, 3 p.m. at Northern Lights Arena, Alpena, with a silent auction and autographs by Joe Kocur and Darren McCarthy; cost $11 adults, $6 for kids. Info: (989) 356-1878 or www.NLAToday.com

Reel Fun Ice Fishing Derby, at Grand Lake, Alpena, with top prize a 2012 Yamaha Grizzly 450, and 25 other valuable prizes; entry fee is $25 per hole before Feb. 11 or $30 after. Info: www.IceFishingAlpena.com or info@icefishingalpena.com Appreciating Winter Landscapes, a cross-country outing with Huron Pines. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., location to be announced. RSVP to jill@huronpines. org. Info: (989) 344-0753 or www.HuronPines.org

Free kids Fishing Derby, at Mio Pond, sponsored by Mio Lions Club. Info: (989) 826-3331 Northland Sportsmen’s Club Winter Ice Fishing Derby, 9 a.m. to noon at Otsego Lake State Park, registration starts at 8:30, for youngsters under 16-years-old, bait, tackle and holes provided, with prizes for most fish,

biggest fish, littlest fish, includes lunch. Info: (989) 732-9164 Free Fishing Derby, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rifle River Recreation Area, for kids under 14-years-old, with prizes and more; event is free, State Park vehicle permit required for entry. Info: (989) 473-2258

Rifle River Winterfest, starts at 11 a.m. at Rifle River Recreation Area, with ice fishing, cross-country skiing, hot dog roast, sledding hay ride, hot cocoa, and more. Info: (989) 685-2936 Cupids Crop, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall in West Branch, indlcues meals, beverages, desserts, contests, prizes, silent auction, classes, shopping, scratch-offs, flower exchange, chair massages and more. Info: (989) 343-2417

February 18-March 10

Introduction to Off-Loom Bead Weaving, a four-part series 11:30 a.m.to 2 p.m. at Art in the Loft Gallery, Alpena, with Lynne Freitag; a beginning level class, cost is $60, ages 14-and-up. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org

February 18-19

45th Parallel Pro-Sled Dog Race, at Clear Lake State Park in Atlanta, an ISDRA-sanctioned race with multiple classes, including skijoring and junior dog sled. Racing starts at 10 a.m.

Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday. Info: (989) 785-4295 Hanson Hills Classic Nordic Ski Race, at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, registration 8-9:30 a.m., racing starts at 10, a 12k classic event with interval starts based on age group, prizes to top three in each bracket, soup and salad luncheon, $15 pre-registration, $20 day of event. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org

February 22

Don’t Become a Target: Protecting Yourself from Fraud, 6 p.m. at the Crawford County Commission on Aging and Senior Citizens, with Det. Sgt. John Mybraniec of the Roscommon County Sheriff’s Department and a focus on how to recognize and protect yourself from scams. Info: (989) 348-7123

Marinated Chicken Dinner, 4-6 p.m. at Crawford County Commission on Aging, cost is $4.75 for under-60, suggested donation of $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 348-7123

February 23

CutTime Simfonica, a string quartet from the Detroit Symphony Ochestra, 7:30 p.m. at Rogers City Community Theater, admission by donation to Huron Shores Humanities Council. For more info on CutTime visit CutTime.com. Event info: (989) 734-3035 or www.DomaciArtGallery.com

February 23-24

CutTime Players, from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, at Rogers City Theater, times to be announced. Info: (989) 734-3861 or (989) 734-7368

February 24

Humane Society Soup Supper, 4 to 7 p.m. at Inverness Township Hall, Cheboygan; $7 adults, kids 12-and-under $5. Info: (231) 238-8221 Eisenhower Dance Ensemble, 7 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, cost is $10 per ticket. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com

February 24-25

Concerts 4 A Cause, featuring country music artists David Shelby, at the APlex Alpena; doors open at 5:30 p.m. show THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

begins at 7, tickets cost $5. Buy in advance - this will sell out. Info: (989) 354-6164 or www.DavidShelbyMusic.com

February 24-26

Charlotte’s Web, a Thunder Bay Youth Theater production, Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., at Thunder Bay Theater Alpena; tickets cost $14 adult, $8 under-18 and $12 military. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheater.com

February 25

Northland Sportsmen Club Craft Show & Flea Market, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Northland Sportsmen Club, Gaylord, with homemade crafts & treats, inhome sales, flea market items and more; proceeds go to scholarships. Info: (989) 732-0831

Sinbad, one of Comedy Central’s top 100 comedians of all time, 7 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, tickets cost $32 and $36. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com

2nd Annual Slicin’ the Ice, tee time is 1 p.m. sharp, a Wertz Warriors fundraiser on East Twin Lake in Lewiston, with longest drive competition, cash prizes, turkey bowling, and more. Cost is $20 each. Info: (989) 786-4388 A Crafters Winter Reprieve, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Indian River United Methodist Church, for scrap bookers, crafters, arts and more, Info: (231)383-0379 Northern Michigan has Talent, Talent Show, 7:30 p.m. at The Cheboiygan Opera House; tickets cost $10. Info: (231) 627-55432 or www.TheOperaHouse.org

March 1

Snowshoe Hike on the Bobcat Trail, 1 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, meet at the Mertz Grade Trailhead a two hour trek for experienced snowhoers, 1 p.m. Info: (989) 248-2537 or www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines

March 3

Corsair Concert Series presents Delta Reign, an Alabama band featuring what they call “Delta bluegrass.” Show starts at 7:30, doors open at 7, at the United 6

Methodist Church Family Center, on M-55 by Dean Arbor Ford, in Tawas City. Tickets cost $15 and benefit the Corsair Ski Trails. Info: (989) 362-2001

Beat the Winter Malaise Booksale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tawas City Library. Info: (989) 362-6557

March 4

A Taste of Gaylord, 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Otsego Club & Resort, featuring more than a dozen local restaurants showcasing their menu favorites. Tickets cost $25 and MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE. Info: (989) 732-633 or www.GaylordChamber.com

March 8

St. Patty Day Dinner, 4-6 p.m. at Crawford County Commission on Aging, cost is $4.75 for under-60, suggested donation of $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 348-7123 Ogemaw County Little League Banquet & Fundraiser, 6 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall in West Branch. Info: (989) 312-0973

March 8-18

Driving Miss Daisy, Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Award-winning play, at Thunder Bay Theater, Alpena, Thursday through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.; tickets cost $14 adult, $8 under-18 and $12 military. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheater.com

March 10

Get Lifted 2 Shredfest Competition at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, a part of the Cold Sweat Series for ski and snowboard, prize packs to top three in 12-and-under and 13-and-up, point series competition with live music in the lodge, cost is $20 per competition. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org

March 11

Girls Scouts 100th Anniversary Open House, 1 - 3 p.m. at St. Anne’s Parish Center, Alpena, for former and present Girl Scouts to share memories, photos and meet old friends. RSVP requested. Info: (989) 464-2619 or AlpenaGirlScouts@aol.com

March 14-24

Youth Art Exhibit, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at State Street Gallery, featuring the art work of West Branch/Rose City students, addmission is free. Info: (989) 345-1451

March 15

S.A.F.E. Series: Personal Safety, 11 a.m. at the Crawford Council Commission on Aging and Senior Citizens, with retired police officer Tim Coe. Presentation is free; lunch to follow for $4.75 for under 60-years-old, suggested donation fo $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 3487123

March 15-18

Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In, a theater performance at Alpena Civic Center, Alpena, based on the hilarious TV series; evening show times at 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $12 adults and $8 students. Info: (989) 354-3624 or www.AlpenaCivicTheatre.com

March 16

Slide, 7 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, traditional Irish musiciians with attitude; tickets cost $26 an $22, Info: (989) 275-6777 or www. KirtlandCenter.com All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner and Bake Sale, 4-7 p.m. at VFW Hall #3890, 133 Fletcher Street, Alpena, sponsored by Under His Wing Christian Fellowship, cost is $6 each, families $15 and under-5 are free. Info: (989) 727-3271

Maximizing Customer Service - a Manager’s Primer, 10 a.m. to noon at University Center in Gaylord. Learn employee motivation, customer service, communication and more; $35, 20-percent discount to Gaylord Chamber members. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.GaylordChamber.com

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

March 16-18

Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Revue, at Cheboygan Opera House, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee, featuring singing, dancing, show girls and Will; $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Info: (231) 627-55432 or www.TheOperaHouse.org

March 16-18 & 22-25

Tawas Bay Players presents Two Teen Productions - Snow Angel by David Lindsay-Abaire and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Fifth Period, by Jason Pizzarello. At Tawas Bay Playhouse; all show times are 7 p.m. except a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee, tickets cost $10. Info: (989) 362-8373 or TawasBayPlayers.com

March 17

March MOVIE Madness - Shark Riddle premiere, 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. at the Great Lakes Marine Heritage Center, Fletcher Street, Alpena, with movie showings every half-hour and toothsome shark activities before and after the show. Best for kids 6-11. Info: (989) 356-8805 ext. 38 or ThunderBay.noaa.gov R.E.N.E.W. - An Expo for Women, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the APlex, Alpena, featuring keynote speaker and life enrichment coach Elizabeth Trinkaus of Pinnacle View, $30 per person includes breakfast, vendors, break-out sessions and more. Info: (989) 354-4181 Gun Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mio Community Center. Info: (989) 3353195

March 18

Heritage Seed Swap, 2 p.m. at West Branch Greenhouse, trade seeds and more. No seeds? Come anyway, we’ll have extra. Info: (989) 345-1133

March 24

Maple Syrup Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about North America’s oldest agricultural product, maple sugar. Event is free, State Park permit required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537 or www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines

Fairview Area Schools Fundraising Dinner and Auction, 5 p.m. at Fairview Area School. Info: (989) 848- 5926

March 24-25

16th Annual Klondike Canoe Race, at Independent Bank and Van Ettan Creek in Oscoda, a sanctioned event and the first MCRA race of the season, with C-1 and C-2 events, with a foot race on Sunday. Info: (989) 820-5196 or www.MiRacing.com

Creati

Pla ay yg y ground

By SCOTT NUNN Info Northeast Staff

GAYLORD – Living in Northeast Michigan certainly has its perks. An Average Day in the Life of Charlie Usually, finding extracurricular Brown…, a musical comedy based on activities to entertain the family is an the Peanuts characters of Charles Schulz, easy task. at Thunder Bay Theater, tickets cost $14 But this winter people here have adults, $8 under-18 and $12 military, faced challenges to say the least. with shows at 7:30 p.m. Thursday With recent record-low snowfalls, through Saturday, Sunday matinees at 2 our household faced the same p.m. Info: (989) 354-2267 or dilemma. www.ThunderBayTheater.com How do we rid the kids of overabundant energy when nothing March 31 but mud awaits them outdoors? 4th Annual Optimist Camel Races, Fortunately, Gaylord’s Kyle and doors open at 6:30 p.m. at the Knights Sarah Johnston have the perfect of Columbus, West Branch, with post solution. As owners of Gaylord time at 7:30 and featuring Hors d’ouers, Discovery Center, the Johnston’s desserts and set ups – byob; cost is $10. offer families a creative outlet for Info: (989) 246-0116 unspent energy and a way to stave True North Radio Network’s Winter off the cabin fever that attacks the Concert Series, featuring the StarFarm best of us. Band, and a musical salute to the music A blend of children’s museum, of the 80s; 6 p.m. at The Interlude science center and play zone, the Ballroom, in the Alpena Events Complex; Discovery Center’s giant blocks tickets cost $7. Info: (989) 354-4611 or encourage kids to build big, a www.AlpenaNow.com huge sand box beckons would be excavators and the junk band musical center turns one man’s discards into little tyke’s music makers. The idea for the center struck them while on vacation in Seattle, Washington. After visiting KidsQuest Children’s Museum there, the Johnston’s recognized something that Otsego County lacked – a place for indoor creative play. They set out to create one. Gaylord Discovery Center went from concept to reality in less than two years; the Johnston’s learning and borrowing from those before them. er of r n w o Similar concepts have found , nston very Cente h o J success elsewhere but are e Kyl rd Disco o l y typically operated as non-profits. Ga Johnston chose to operate as a

March 30-aPrIL 15

for-profit enterprise, unhindered by the uncertainty of community fundraising and free him to make business decisions without the oversight of a board of directors. Johnston feels this puts him in a better situation to address customer needs. “We are trying to split the difference between non-profit ideals and for-profit function. We want to offer not just sugar, but substance,” Johnston said, adding their intent is to encourage education through exploration. “I want it to hold their attention, not just grab it.” It worked for our formerly pent-up brood. Our son Connor, 6, spent most of the visit at the water center exploring the physics of low-pressure water seeking its own level. Marlena, 4, equally impressed with the water center also found great pleasure with the abundance of kitchen and doll toys in Fort Tyke. In a nearly unprecedented case, even Bill, our 16-month-old mischief maker, entertained himself for our entire four-hour visit, exploring for himself nearly every inch of the Center. All the children at the Discovery Center, our own included, found great pleasure in the chaos of toppling the great giant block walls built by the parents. The only fussing we heard from all three that entire day was when we went to leave. Located in a portion of the former Carter’s Foods store, on the business loop in Gaylord, Gaylord Discovery Center further reaches into education and exploration by hosting playgroups on Mondays and Fridays for children not yet school-aged.

THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

Matthew Weebe r an Wyatt, 3, of Pet d his son oskey

“Kyle puts a lot of thought into everything he does,” said Amy Jacobs, who visits the center at least once a week with her paternal twins Levi & Libbi, 2. Matthew and Sarah Weeber of Petoskey drove 30 miles to visit Gaylord Discovery Center.Not long after arrival from home in Petoskey, Matthew Weeber had his sleeves rolled up at Tube Tester with sons Wyatt, 3, and Kieran, 6, while Sarah was entertaining daughter, Maple, 1, in the Fort Tyke’Onderoga, a playzone chock-full of toys for those curious tots. First time visitors to the Discovery Center after finding disappointment at a similar facility closer to home, the Weeber clan had an enjoyable winter afternoon. “It was definitely worth the drive,” Matthew Weeber said. “We’ll definitely be back.” A dress code at Gaylord Discovery Center is unenforced but strictly casual and Johnston’s suggestion to bring a change of clothes is one you should follow. Also be aware that shoes are not allowed in the play areas, so slippers are a good suggestion. But the best suggestion we heard all day was that of Matthew Weeber. Like the Weeber’s we’ll be back. And I suggest you pay The Gaylord Discovery Center a visit. You don’t have to wait for a bad weather day. Like us, you may want to go when the weather is unseasonably decent. 7

big

INDuSTry

By JERRY NUNN

jnunn@infonortheast.com

ONAWAY – At a time when most heavy industry is laying off workers – or worse yet, moving out of Northeast Michigan all together – Tom Moran is bucking that trend, growing Moran Iron Works as if the economy was booming. Last November, a second facility – Moran Iron Works North – went into production in Cheboygan, expanding Moran’s manufacturing capacity, increasing the number of employees and returning to northern Michigan much of the work that had once been contracted to downstate job shops. Already the new facility is booked with work through 2013. Seemingly out of place in today’s economy, the growth will allow Moran to build even more of the giant steel fixtures the company transports to Rogers City’s deepwater Port Calcite, for shipment to ports across the Great Lakes and all over the world. Welcome to the world of industrial steel. The fixtures and equipment that Moran Iron Works manufactures are measured in weight by the thousands-of-tons, supplying the energy, mining and other heavy industries with material handling, air filtration and equipment designed to remove pollution. Often too large to ship assembled, Moran designs the structures in modular format for final

Tom Moran, owner of Moran Iron Works assembly at the job site or before loading onto barges. Much of the equipment produced is so bulky, that Moran Iron Works teamed up with the Presque Isle County Road commission and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation on a four-year project to build a high wire transportation corridor along state highway M-68 clear to Rogers City. Big industrial steel fabrication is a niche market that has served Tom Moran and Moran Iron Works well. “We’re competitive and I think we are particularly good at what we do,” Moran says. “We turn down work daily and we see greater opportunity daily. This may sound crazy but we’d like to grow to 200 employees over the next couple of years.” With the addition of Moran Iron Works North, the company is headed in a direction to do just that. He now

employees 80 people. And while this is not his first attempt at expansion – he owned a second plant in Cheboygan, 30 miles away, 15 or 20 years ago but closed it down – this time Moran’s more experienced work force can better focus on production and growth. “Just being a little ways away made operating a second facility extremely difficult,” he said. “For starters you have more equipment, two of everything really. And supervision can be a problem.” Yet, when a local bank approached with the offer of the property, Moran gave it consideration. “At first I didn’t want anything to do with it,” Moran says, recalling that first bad experience. “But it was the right time. We re-addressed everything that had gone wrong the first time and this time we are going to do it different.” “It takes a very dedicated staff of educated and experienced workers. And while the margins are low, those margins are there. Besides, this is Northern Michigan. I’ve dealt with low profit margins my entire life.” Arrive at Moran Iron Works administrative offices and Tom Moran won’t likely appear from an

office, decked out in a suit and tie. He is more apt to approach from out of the shop, wearing steel-toed boots, welder’s scrubs and a pair of safety glasses. An Onaway native, Moran is the youngest son and one of seven children of local lumberjack Harry Moran. While he seems to have landed a ways from his roots, it’s not as distant as one might think. “My dad wanted us all to work by his side in the woods,” Moran said. “Well, he always needed a welder to fix things and repair equipment so I guess I fulfilled that part of it.” At heart Moran remains that smalltime repairman. Tucked among the giant pieces of steel that are destined for shipment somewhere else, you’ll find guys working on smaller projects for local farmers, loggers and machine shops. “We still do smaller jobs because we feel we should,” Moran says, noting that fixing machinery or equipment in desolate Northern Michigan often means making the parts from scratch to perform the repairs. “A lot of times, we lose money on those smaller, walk-in jobs, but we still do it. It’s part of our

BIG JOBS - This massive duct work, fabricated by Moran Iron Works in Onaway leaves from the deep-water Port of Calcite in Rogers City. Last year Moran Iron Works North opened in Cheboygan bringing with it jobs that had been contracted with downstate fabricators. In the past 3 years the Moran work force has increased by 30-percent.

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

culture up here. It’s something we feel that we should do.” Moran taught himself to weld, after convincing his high school shop teacher to give him access to the school’s unused welding equipment. Before graduation in 1978, he was the go-to-guy for metal repair, fixing items around the school and performing repairs for the bus garage.

the program to other companies and students as well. And Moran stays involved with high schools in other ways as well, participating in school-towork programs just like the one he enrolled in, back when he was in school. Many of his employees began the same way. “I have a lot of guys who started

The Hope heads to it’s home port of Mackinaw City where it will shuttle visitors to Mackinac Island. The ferry was at Moran Iron Works for repairs and lengthening in 2010. While Moran went into his career straight out of school and incorporated Moran Iron Works in 1986, he did not forget his beginnings and supplies local high schools from Mio-AuSable to Cheboygan with equipment and raw materials for their own welding and metal fabrication programs. Over the past two years, Moran Iron Works has increased its workforce by 30-percent and to augment his supply of trained welders, Moran approached Alpena Community College about establishing an advanced welding program there. Now the college supplies administrative staff and oversight while Moran Iron Works supplies the classroom, materials and equipment. And while the company gains access to a supply of able workers, the college offers

out here sweeping floors,” Moran says. “I have guys who aren’t even 40-years-old yet, who’ve worked here 20 years. Nine of my 15-yearplus employees started working here while they were still in school.” Converse with Moran about the company he founded and he doesn’t speak in the singular possessive; with Moran it’s “us,” “we” and “Moran Iron Works,” as if he, the company and the guys who work for him are all one in the same. That recognition of employee contribution has built a mutual respect that benefits all, according to project superintendent Kelly Marsh, 41, of Onaway. “Tom has created some good jobs. And anytime you create work up here you’ve made a big accomplishment,” Marsh says. As one of those employees who began while still in school, Marsh has been

a part of Moran’s growth. And while Perhaps it is best that Moran is so a common goal of Moran and his involved in his community. employees to do well and perform As an ever-growing heavy good work has allowed for that industrialist, whose shop lies just growth, Marsh says it was Moran on the outskirts of town, he trucks who guided the company to where it oversized loads of giant steel is today. fabrications right down Onaway’s “Tom is very humble,” Marsh main street with increasing said. “He is much more than just a regularity these days. welder.” Tom Moran couldn’t keep a low The respect Moran is granted by profile if he tried. his employees is shared by folks “Tom expects excellence. He is around Onaway as well, according very truthful and very straight to Katrina McDonald and Bernie forward,” says McDonald. “And on Kolasa, owners of Manzana’s a personal level, Tom is just a very Restaurant in Onaway. good guy. It’s good to see him doing If folks from elsewhere know well.” Tom Moran, it is probably for the giant metal sculptures he builds. Usually of a patriotic theme, a new statue plays a starring role in Onaway’s Fourth of July parade each year. Afterward, Moran puts them on display at Moran Iron Works or lends them to area non-profit organizations. “People come from all over to watch the parade and see those sculptures,” said McDonald. It’s the same way when Moran holds his annual Fireworks display the first weekend in December, she says. The attraction of outof-towners shows up in her restaurant’s daily receipts. “It is a huge benefit to the whole town,” McDonald said. “Everyone is busy. All the businesses do well Miss Liberty - If Moran Iron Works is known those days.” by the public for anything, it is for the giant sculpKolasa says that Moran tures dotting Northeast Michigan and beyond. Miss is “instrumental in the Liberty, standing 18-feet-tall, greets travelers along development of our state highway M-68 on the west edge of Onaway. community as well.” A similarly large bust of George Washington stands “I’d say he feels an just across a ﬁeld here, up the road from Moran Iron obligation to give back to Works main plant in Presque Isle County. Others his community,” Kolasa decorate landscapes from the U.P. to Macomb said. “This is where he County. In all, Tom Moran has built 22 of the gigantic was born and raised. And I sculptures, each of which debuted during Onaway’s think people appreciate him annual 4th of July parade. The parade has become for that a lot more than he a major attraction because of the sculptures. thinks.”

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Sweet Scholastics

members, school administrators and parents frequently stop by. In addition, students host an annual open house, to show citizens of the community what they’ve learned. What students learn is nearly limitless and other student projects connect directly with the professional-grade syrup production project, according to agriscience teacher and F.F.A. advisor Brian Matchett. One in-school science project produces biodiesel fuel from used cooking oil. Students use that bio-diesel to fire the massive sap evaporator. Meanwhile, the student-operated saw mill produces lumber to be used in making benches, fencing and other items used around the sugar shack. “It’s taught me a lot about history, mostly about logging. You kind of have to know that stuff to give the FFA members Jaymes Hollengal and Rose Powierski teach an inquisitive class of third graders about tours,” Powierski said, noting the maple syrup production in the on-campus sugar shack at Alcona County Schools. Since 2007, the logging industries importance to the school’s FFA Program has commercially produced nearly 200 gallons of maple syrup or more. Alcona County’s early development. And mostly they focus on syrup LINCOLN – When it comes to hands-on “They’re not classes where you production. “People have the basics but learning, Alcona County High School students get sit around taking notes,” says they don’t know the science.” a pretty sweet deal. Come March, those enrolled freshman Mykala Basner, 14. Students here live the science. in the school’s FFA Program will abandon the “They are more hands-on.” The sugar shack is attached to a small classroom for the on-campus sugar shack and set Hands-on, with student’s active log cabin that serves as classroom and a to work producing pure maple syrup. participation in the projects and place to hold an annual open house. In the For FFA members, the real world experience gain experience to apply far evaporator room, 40 gallons confirms what they’ve learned in Alcona High’s beyond high school. of sap are boiled to produce agriscience class. For the district’s 435 elementary With that in mind, each gallon of syrup. From students, having a sugar shack out behind the Basner’s favorite there it goes to the finishing school provides an early glimpse into the future of syrup season duty is room where the syrup is their own education. showing elementary finished and bottled. “Seeing how you go from sap to syrup is students around the After bottling, the syrup pretty cool,” said freshman Seth Tulgetske, 14, sugar shack, that goes up for sale with the who plans a career in agriculture. No stranger to they understand money going towards farming, Tulgetske raises goats, chickens, horses the production and equipment, paying for and cows at home. Nonetheless, he gives big process that occurs student’s travel to state and credit to what he’s learned through F.F.A., 4-H and here. national F.F.A. conferences When: March 24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the Alcona High’s agriscience classes. But tours of and funding further studentIn addition to biology, students here can choose the operation are governed projects. Where: Alcona High School sugar between zoology, botany and silviculture, the not limited to While the program is not shack behind Alcona High School, study of trees. But at Alcona High School, the grade schoolers, unique to Michigan public drool monotony of text books is often tossed out according to Rose located just off state highway M-72, schools, administrators here the window. Powierski, 17, a are aware of only one other on Barlow Road Lincoln. junior. Community downstate district where 10

Maple Syrup Celebration Day

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

students produce maple syrup on a commercial level. From the science of making syrup, to the business end of sales, and the communication skills gained by interacting with public, administrators here understand they’ve developed an exemplary method to deliver education. “These students, doing all of this on their own, are not going to forget these things they’ve learned,” said Alcona High School Principal Terry Allison, giving credit to teacher and advisor Matchett, as well as the school’s agriscience para-pro Russ Champagne, for the projects they’ve helped develop. Students, who often spend time after school and on weekends during the unpredictable and uncontrolled sap run, agree that this part of their

Ewe

education is not something they will soon forget. “I really helped out last year,” said sophomore Erica Kennedy, 16, who monitored the boiling sap and added a de-foaming agent if it began to boil over. “It’s all fun with memories and learning. We will think back on this our whole lives. These will be our high school memories.” Megann Ridgewell, Alcona County Schools tenth-grader, bottles fresh maple syrup while Katelyn Sims, Michaela Walker and Cacee Ovillet double-check the process and weigh the ﬁnished product. The maple syrup production is undertaken by the school’s FFA Program.

You’ve got to see this!

It’s the Internet premier of Ewe Tube, a web cam that follows Amanda Swinson’s agriscience lambing project. The two polypay ewe’s you’ll see live on camera ought to be lambing towards the ﬁrst of March. Type 65.111.198.70 in the address bar of your Internet browser.

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For the love of Curling By JERRY NUNN editor LEWISTON – Wanting to move back up north, Grayling native Kelly Sauter wasn’t too fussy about where such a move might take her as long as it was away from the city. Neil Sauter, on the other hand was a bit more particular. “I said, ‘All right. I’ll go up there if we can live somewhere that I can curl,’” Neil Sauter said. Such a hard-nosed stance may have put Neil on thin ice with his wife but it turns out his partiality to curling was Kelly’s fault to begin

with. She’d fed her husband’s passion by renting Lewiston Curling Club for Neil as a wedding gift four years ago. “I saw it on the Olympics and just knew I had to play that game,’” Sauter recalls. If Sauter was intrigued before playing the game, he is more so now. These days he serves as club treasurer, getting time on the ice during weekday league play and during weekend tournaments. And such a stipulation on their northbound relocation pretty much guaranteed they’d settle down near Montmorency County. Lewiston is home to one of only seven

established curling clubs in the state. Three are in the U.P. and the rest are all downstate. Sauter is not alone in his interest in the sport. It gained attention after media coverage of the 2006 Olympic Games in Torino, Italy, according to Gary Mattson, one of many club members who drives here from Gaylord. Back home in Gaylord, Mattson and others can curl only during summer, when Try your hand at curling the seasonally abandoned Lewiston Curling Club rents their hall to hockey rink at Otsego those interested in learning to curl. Adult County Sportsplex converts group rates are $150 per hour with a two hour to curling sheets. minimum and includes instruction by two Club member Bill experienced members. Youth rates are $5 per Michaels, director of the Sportsplex, said that while youngster. curling has always been Or stop by Lewiston curling club for a visit. popular in Lewiston, it League play is underway Monday through is growing in popularity Thursday until March 3, while seniors leagues elsewhere now and while meet up on Friday mornings. both are played on ice, the For more information about Lewiston Curling games hold little similarity. Club, call (989) 786-3888 or visit their website In fact curling may at www.LewistonCurling.com. be the very antithesis of

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

hockey, with each game beginning and ending with opponents shaking hands. “There is no full contact curling,” said Bob Turpa, of Lewiston, a curler since the 1970’s. “Curling is very much a gentleman’s sport.” Rather than on a huge rink, curling is played on a 15-foot-wide by 140-foot-long sheet, small rubber pucks are replaced with 42-pound stones of finished granite. Whereas hockey ice starts out smooth and gets torn up by skates, the ice surface for curling is purposely pebbled with tiny droplets of water before the match and special shoes are worn to protect the ice. The tiny bumps caused by pebbling reduce the contact area of stone to ice. A gentle shove, and the stone will travel the entire length of the sheet. It is a twist of the hand that gives the stone its handle, or curve, or curl as it is also known. And finally, while a hockey puck is driven down the ice and past opponents with sheer power, curling with 42-pound stones is not that way at all. A gentle shove, and the stone will travel the entire length of the sheet. It is a twist of the hand that gives the stone its handle, or curve, or curl as it is also known. “It’s a game of finesse,” said Ron Walton of Gaylord, who drives to Lewiston twice a week to curl. “It is strategy. There is no brute force in curling.” That’s not to say players get no exercise. If anything sets curling apart and makes the uninitiated scratch their heads, it is the sweepers with their brooms. “It’s a novel concept if you think about it,” says Craig Kasmer, of Gaylord. “You heat up the ice ahead of the stone just enough to elongate the curl.” By rapidly rubbing the broom on the ice just ahead of the stone, a microscopic layer of ice is melted, reducing friction. Not only does the stone travel further, it curls less. “You can sweep it almost 10 feet,” Kasmer says. And where Walton

says a stone can be made to curl six or seven feet, Kasmer said a good sweeper can draw that curve out, helping to direct the stone’s final resting spot. These days brooms are more like canvas pads on a pivoting head. But then, the Lewiston Curling Club is an indoor facility too, built in 1963 and recently remodeled through efforts of club members. They say the sport is as much about the socializing as it about curling and that social aspect is evident in the club’s finished lounge, where players hang out after a game. It wasn’t always like that, says Grady Alsobrooks, 86, of Lewiston. While he no longer curls, his son Glenn Alsobrooks does, and Grady remains a frequent visitor. “We didn’t have man-made ice when we started,” Alsobrooks said. “We used to play on natural ice and we used corn brooms, too.” Lewiston Curling Club currently has around 70 members, according to Sauter. Folks are welcome to stop by and check curling out. While the sport and the club are male dominated, local youth and women like to curl too. Like Lewiston native Pat Thornton, who played on a league back in the 1970’s and now just plays on mixed teams. “I wouldn’t say it was hard to do,” Thornton says. “It does take a little practice.” Others say you never stop learning, no matter how long you curl. “The game itself is easy to learn,” said Corey Crowell, club president. “It just takes a while to learn that strategy and to get any good at it.”

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Devon’s remains open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays during the “offseason,” roughly late October after the autumn color change till the following May. But those are far fewer hours, compared to being open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. in the summer. “The hours are a lot shorter,” she added. Melanie Kelso and Kathy Though, people Heilman take a walk down may buy fudge 24 the near-empty Central hours at day at the Avenue in downtown store’s website, www. Mackinaw City. MackinawFudgeCo. com, Darren Anderson, owner of Devon’s Delights, said about 80 to 90 percent of the store’s sales occur during the hectic tourist employee season each summer and early fall. at Devon’s Delights. “The third week in June is when “It’s totally different in the summer.” it really starts popping,” Anderson It’s different because there’s said. “We’re busy up through late another Mackinaw City, the sleepy October.” little town of less than 1,000 Many business owners, like Kathy residents that lives on after the leaves Heilman, co-owner of Monadnock fall from the trees in late October Fine Gifts, said it’s not worth staying and the tourists have gone open during the winter and early spring. “Look at the weather,” Heilman said, as she takes a walk down the near empty Central Avenue that cuts through the heart of downtown Mackinaw City with her dog, “Cleo,” and friend, Melanie Kelso. Faced with unseasonable warmth like the rest of us, this winter has been worse home. than most. “Who’s going to In January, Slaytinski stands come up?” behind the counter at the same Heilman said, over the years, fudge shop that’s so busy during the she has opened the store during summer. But now, on weekdays, she weekends with special events. can sometimes count the number of However, that didn’t always prove customers on one hand. profitable. “It is better on the weekends but “It’s only a handful of people that not much,” Slaytinski said, recalling come in and usually it’s just to warm last November, the most recent time themselves,” she said. when large numbers of folks came “A little more than half” of around. “And, during hunting season the local businesses close for the we get a lot of business. That helps a offseason, said Dawn Edwards, little bit.”

: w a n M a c k i wo c i t i e s t f o e l a A t

In summertime, tourists by the thousands inundate Mackinaw City. While it remains a mid-winter haven for snowmobilers and other outdoor enthusiasts, Mackinaw is a far different place in winter, as locals relax, recoup, and get ready for the busy summer that lies just ahead.

By DENNIS MANSFIELD Special to The Guide

MACKINAW CITY – Everyone knows Mackinac City in the summertime. Millions of tourists have flocked to here to view the iconic Mackinac Bridge, catch a ferry to Mackinac Island, to visit historic Fort Michilimackinac or buy world famous fudge and shop for souvenirs. And while the city is a haven for snowmobilers and winter sports enthusiasts, when the panoramic views are made perhaps more precious by the season’s beauty, this time of year Mackinaw City is a far different place. “In the summer, I work 70-plus hours,” said Justine Slaytinski, an

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

executive director of the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce. Also, other businesses limit the hours or reduce the number of days they are open to the public in the offseason. Many are only open Friday through Sunday, when visitors might again stop by during one of the hockey tournaments in nearby

St. Ignace. Of course there’s the annual Mackinaw City Winterfest, which helps draws tourists back to the area. “A lot of it is seasonal,” Edwards said. “But a lot is still open. “You have your service industries - restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and offices like insurance companies - that are open, too,” she added, pointing out the shared situation with most of northern Michigan. “I don’t know if we’re really that different than other communities.” The Mackinaw IGA might be the city’s lone dedicated grocery store. While the support of local customers is important for the store’s financial survival, just like other businesses in Mackinaw City, tourism is a dominant factor when totaling up annual sales. “We’re almost all tourist,” said the store’s manager, Brad Hiller. “I’d say

60 to 70 percent of our business is from tourists. ... Summers are crazy.” In the summer and early fall, Mackinaw IGA employs as many as 15 people. From November to April, however, that number shrinks to about three full time and two

part time employees, according to Hiller. “It’s like a lot of towns,” he said. “There’s no in between. It’s either slow or real busy.” Not that a bit of “down time” is a bad thing. In fact, while business owners enjoy the increased sales of the tourist season, there are benefits to the offseason as well. “This is the time of year when we get to catch up,” Hiller said, adding the store becomes like a barber shop, a spot where residents use a chance meeting to chat about local happenings. “Everything is laid back this time of year.” Dennis Mikus, owner of the Coffman Hardware Store, agrees. The offseason can be a time for the residents of Mackinaw City not only to relax, but also to reconnect. “Then it’s time to do the Lions Club stuff, go to a basketball game,” he said. Mikus has owned the hardware store on Central Avenue since 1982. Prior to remodeling in 2000, he’d

close the store for the offseason. After that, however, he’s kept it open with limited hours, partly because he’s also a school bus driver. “From Memorial Day to Labor Day, we do about half our business,” he said. “Then, it really dies off.” Mikus and his store manager, Linda May, keep busy in the offseason doing inventory and other in-store projects, as well as attending buyer shows. “It’s different. It’s mostly locals,” he added. “I find we do just enough to pay the bills.” Jeff Hingston, village president and owner of the Candy Corner & Windjammer, admits Mackinaw City shifts into a “wintertime mode” each offseason. “It’s truly a small town feel,” Hingston said. “As far as running the village, things still have to get done. We just shift to a different type of workload.

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“We’re not closed up, but we’re not open like in the summer. There’s just not the people,” he added. “We’re like so many communities that dependent on tourism as their main source of commerce. That is our industry - tourism.” And, like most places, Hingston said there are advantages and disadvantages to living at Mackinaw City, including a hectic summer and a slower, more relaxed offseason. “It’s an exciting place to live,” Edwards added. “But, it’s like living in two worlds.” That is, a city of two seasons. For a calendar of events for Mackinaw City and the surrounding area, people may visit the chamber’s website at www.mackinawchamber. com or call the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce office at 231-436-5574.

Brewing Up History: The Cheboygan Brewing Company By MATTHEW J. FRIDAY Special to The Guide

The first brewing house of any significant size to operate here was that of Charles Hentschell & Brother, from about 1872 to 1877; after 1877 it was operated by Charles Hentschell exclusively. August Quash and Joe Schley I purchased the operation, renamed it Quast and Schley, and operated it between 1882 and 1884. In 1882, farther to the north on the Cheboygan River, James and Patrick Moloney built their own brewery, the Northern Brewing Company. The business changed its name to the Cheboygan Brewing and Malting Company in 1890 when James bought out his brother. In 1905, James sold the business to five men from Milwaukee. The Cheboygan Brewing and Malting Company produced beer under at least six different names: Perfecto, Blue Label, Silvo, High Grade Export, Bohemian, and Bock. But in 1911, the company closed

CHEBOYGAN – Brewing beer in Cheboygan has a long history, a fact not lost on Jamie McClurg, one of the Cheboygan Brewing Company founders. As McClurg says: “The foundation of our business is history.” Perhaps, but it is also built on choice hops, barley, and pure water. Their motto is “Absolutely pure and well brewed.” It is something they strive for every day and easily evident in the products they produce. The modern history of Cheboygan Brewing Company began a long distance away, in the fall of 2009, when McClurg was sitting with his son Ryan McClurg at the Stone Brewery in San Diego. While enjoying a pint, Jamie turned to Ryan and said, “You know, this would be a fun business to get into.” Two weeks later, while lying on a beach in Florida, McClurg turned to see Cheboygan Brewing page 22 his soon to be business partner Mark Lorenz and The Cheboygan Brewing Company asked him matter-ofFor a unique Northeast Michigan experience, the factly, “You want to start Cheboygan Brewing Company is an ideal pour. a brewery?” That was the beginning. The brewery tap room is open Thursday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. during the winter. Growler ﬁlls Today the brewery are available Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by offers its beers from its calling (231) 268-3218 or by knocking on the brewery’s front tap room in downtown Cheboygan, as well as a door. During the summer the tap room is open Thursdaygrowing list of taverns Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m. across the state. For more information go to: But the distant past www.CheboyganBrewing.com. plays an equal role at To learn where to ﬁnd Cheboygan Brewing Company Cheboygan Brewing beer at locations near you, click the Find our Beer link on Company. the company’s home page. 16

   Northeast Michigan’s wine and beverage trail is growing ever larger and worth a day or weekend spent traversing the region. With Modern Craft Winery now open in Au Gres, and Cheboygan Brewery Company opening its taps in Cheboygan, an entire weekend can be spent sampling beverages and enjoying Northeast Michigan. With Modern Craft, Rose Valley Winery and Valley Mist Winery in Rose City, and Wiltse’s Brew Pub in Oscoda, the southern part of the tour makes for a great day’s travel. Best of all, this leg of your journey will lead you down River Road Scenic By-way, along the open water of the AuSable River where hundreds of swans spend the winter and bald eagles come to ﬁsh. If you plan to take it all in, spend the night in Alpena where you can shop the downtown art galleries and antique shops, before stopping by Stoney Acres Winery, another winery where fruit wines have made a name for themselves. As you travel north to Cheboygan and Cheboygan Brewing Company, your travels will have you hugging Lake Huron’s shoreline, where you’ll ﬁnd numerous overlooks.

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

according to Nixon. Apples come from Fruitful Orchard in Gladwin, honey from Saginaw County clover fields, while cherrys, blackberries peaches and pears arrive as juice from the west side of the state. Britt’s maple syrup and Czaika’s blueberries are harvested in Tawas. It’s those fruit and specialty wines that make Modern Craft Winery well worth a visit. “The flavor of the fruit really comes out in our wines,” says Czymbor, unable to pick a customer favorite. “With our peach wine you can taste the fuzz. Our apple wine is like biting into a big juicy apple. And we have a wine called Blue Berry Pancake that tastes just like you’re eating blueberry pancakes. “I think it’s the flavor of the fruits that are the one thing that stand us apart.” If the offerings of Modern Craft Winery set a new standard in fruitful flavors, it may be due to Czymbor and Nixon’s attention to detail; that and their underlying inexperience. Sealing the deal – In the tasting room at Modern Craft Winery, Melissa Nixon While Nixon, 31, an engineer and Debbie Lee box bottles of wine for returning customer Debby Dittenber of Au for Saint Gobain in Beaverton, had Gres. made wine and beer in the past, Czymbor, 44 and a printer by trade, garage, start making wine and set up is a recent convert, gaining his By JERRY NUNN the tasting room.” editor vintner’s know-how over the past Though the speed with which the AU GRES – A fine wine may get three years under the tutelage of his better with age but the idea to start a partners got Modern Craft Winery next-door neighbor, the late Herb winery is apparently best if acted on started is a rarity in the heavilyHammerbacher. regulated wine industry, the pair did right away. When Hammerbacher was not short their wine menu any. While the faint murmur physically no longer able to press In addition to classic grape wines, grapes and perform the heavier concerning Northeast Michigan’s Modern Craft offers an extensive newest winery took place for the tasks associated with wine making, and growing list of fruit wines, first time just last April, by August Cymbor did the neighborly thing available sweet or tart, as well as Jeff Czymbor and Tom Nixon were and helped honey aging their first batches of wine Hammerbacher Modern Craft Winery mead and and Modern Craft Winery officially out. 2760 East Booth Road, Au Gres a maple opened its doors on November 11, Yet with no wine. 2011. From U.S. 23, approaching Au Gres from formal training, Most the south, turn right at the Shell gas station and “We started talking about it, they weren’t follow Santiago Road to the lake. As you arrive fruits we discussed it over dinner a few beholden to rules at the lake shore, turn left onto East Booth with the times and a couple of days later of the trade. Road. Modern Craft Winery is just down on the exception we submitted the paperwork,” said “These guys right. of tropicals Czymbor. thought totally are grown “We were up and running in only Call ahead for hours, at (989) 876-0270, or out of the box right seven months,” Nixon says. “We visit Modern Craft online at right from the here in www.moderncraftwinery.com. had to get permits, remodel the very beginning,” Michigan, Advance notice is preferred for larger groups. says Jane THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

Jeff Czymbor pumps grape juice from a shipping drum into a fermentation tank. While the juice and grape skins are shipped separately, both are used to give wine its subtle ﬂavors and aroma. Hammerbacher. While Herb Hammerbacher made wine during the couple’s entire 51-year marriage, she says Czymbor and Nixon took his skills to a higher level. “My husband showed them how, but you could just see the gears turning. I think it is very impressive what they’ve done.” What they have done would not have happened without the help of family. Most weekends Jennifer Czymbor and Melissa Nixon, along with Melissa’s mother Debbie Lee, can be found working around the winery, offering tastings, bottling wines or taking care of the many other tasks. But further help came from the area’s other commercial wine makers – Adam Kolodziejski at Rose Valley Winery and Brad Moore from Valley Mist Winery, both located in Rose City. “Herb showed us how to make it, but Adam got us through a lot of red tape and pointed us in the

see Modern Craft page 22 17

22nd Annual Snowbox Derby this year’s theme is Down on the Farm When: February 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: Old Orchard Park, located on River Road, eight miles west of the light in downtown Oscoda What you’ll ﬁnd there: Elaborate sleds made of cardboard, tape and papier mache, toboggan races, food vendors, kid’s games, bon ﬁre, entertainment and more. Sleds are judged in the categories of Best of Theme, Most Creative and Speed. Racers compete in the categories of business, family, young adult (ages 13-18) and children (12-and-under.) For more information: (989) 739-7322 or www. OscodaChamber.com

The Pigeon and Sturgeon Rivers are two of Michigan’s top coldwater streams and are both notable blue ribbon trout streams. Their waters ﬂow through the heart of the Pigeon River Country and are sought-after destinations for the outdoor enthusiast. Be a part of helping to protect these valuable resources by contacting Huron Pines. Restoration work on two of Northeast Michigan’s most remarkable streams

By GARRET NOYES

Huron Pines AmeriCorps Member

The Pigeon and Sturgeon rivers in Northeast Michigan are the focus of new conservation efforts this year, coordinated by Huron Pines and regional partners. Funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Sustain Our Great Lakes program, the project combines funding from federal sources with private contributions. The Pigeon and Sturgeon River Habitat Projects will maintain and improve habitat and water quality throughout these two watersheds. For the river: Plans for this project include the removal of at least

three fish passage barriers, such as inadequate road/stream crossings, to improve aquatic connectivity throughout 14 river miles, restore natural stream flow and reduce sediment from entering the river. Another component of the project will be the addition of natural woody material to priority stretches of river. Huron Pines and DNR Fisheries staff anticipate the placement of at least 300 whole trees along with other structures to provide cover for juvenile and adult trout. In total, these efforts will improve 10,000 feet of instream habitat on two of Michigan’s most beautiful blue ribbon trout streams while engaging over 100 local volunteers in the hands-on effort. For the long haul: The river projects being implemented this year and next will couple with

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

ongoing efforts to improve forest management and wildlife habitat as well as with building a strong grassroots coalition to sustain longterm restoration efforts. Huron Pines is not only coordinating the on-the-ground restoration projects, but also bringing together multiple private and public sector partners to build on the existing community support for these rivers. The federal funding from the Sustain Our Great Lakes program will be more than doubled by support from conservation groups, road commissions, foundations, businesses and individuals in the next two years. A number of groups, including Trout Unlimited, have been actively involved in conserving these rivers and will be instrumental in reigniting local conservation efforts. To learn more about these two watersheds and the projects underway, please come to the upcoming meeting for the Pigeon & Sturgeon River Habitat Projects on February 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Livingston Township Hall in Gaylord. Huron Pines project staff and DNR Fisheries Biologists will be on hand

to provide information about the project and how you can get involved in the protection of two of Northeast Michigan’s most treasured resources. Huron Pines’ interactive river model will also be onsite. If you are planning to attend the meeting please RSVP to Jill at (989) 344-0753 x21 or jill@ huronpines.org. A special thank you to Livingston Township for opening their town hall to us and to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for financial support. Additional support for habitat projects is provided by the Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society. Learn more about this project and others like it at www.huronpines.org. The Sustain Our Great Lakes program is a public-private program designed to achieve ecological and habitat restoration goals developed through the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration and is coordinated by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and funded by the steel and mining company ArcelorMittal, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Alpenfrost 2012 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012 9-10 a.m.: Frosty 5K Run/Walk 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Family Fun Snowmobile Ride 10:30 a.m.: Polar Plunge Parade 11 a.m.: Polar Plunge Event 11:30 a.m.: Polar Plunge Awards & Party at Mary’s Tavern Noon: Soup Cook-Off Noon-4 p.m.: Horse Carriage Rides, Downtown Gaylord Scavenger Hunt & Alpenfrost Stations 1 p.m.: Opening Skate Ceremony 1:30 p.m.: Ice Putting Contest for adults and children 2 p.m.: Frozen Strudel Toss 2:30 p.m.: Discovery Center Surprise Kids Events 3:30 p.m.: Snowball Juggling Contest open to all ages 4 p.m.: Awards & Prizes 7 p.m.-1 a.m.: Wine Festival at Treetops, with wine, dinner, and live music

Subscribe to To receive a one year subscription to The Guide return this completed form with a check for $16 made payable to Info Northeast. Seasonal subscriptions are available for half price.

HeadWaters Land Conservancy coming events Land Guardian Photography Club When: February 4 at noon Where: HeadWaters Land Conservancy, 110 S. Elm Ave, Gaylord If you are interested in photography, wildlife and landscapes, and enjoy the outdoors join our photography club. It is a noncompetitive club open to the public. The club offers the opportunity to share ideas with other photographers, access great shooting locations and foster fellowship among enthusiasts. Event info: (989) 731-0573 or Snowshoe Family Adventure www.headwatersconservancy.org When: February 25 at noon Where: Tubes Campground in the Pigeon River National Forest This is a great opportunity to dust off the snowshoes and enjoy the outside scenery during these winter months. During this snowshoe adventure we will learn how to identify tracks, track patterns and signs that animals leave behind.

Name: __________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Phone Number: ___________________________________________ e-mail: __________________________________________________ Mail to:

Info Northeast 3247 East Sage Lake Road Lupton, MI 48635

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Cheboygan Brewery from page 16

its doors owing to the declining population, the rise of the prohibition movement and competition from larger breweries. When the Cheboygan Brewing Company was reborn last year, Lorenz and McClurg felt a great desire to connect their present operation with the rich brewing heritage of Cheboygan’s past. Many of those early beers were brewed by German immigrants, a fact not lost on today’s brewery. Brewmaster Tim Perry does this by brewing up German style lagers and special brewed alts such as the

Modern Craft from page 17

Tom Nixon lends a hand as Debbie Lee and Jennifer Czymbor bottle a batch of Honey Mead.

right direction,” says Czymbor. “He took us over to Valley Mist to introduce us, and Brad told us what they did wrong and what they’d do differently.” With technical matters out of the way, all that was left for Czymbor and Nixon was to refine their recipes and produce some wine. “We’ve really put a lot of work into the recipes and we’re developing new ones every day,” Nixon says, pointing to a row of 70 gallon maturation tanks. “These are all test batches. If they’re good we’ll bottle them and sell those too.” Modern Craft Winery is open for business, its inviting tasting room located just off South Santiago Road, on the southern edge of Au Gres, and a capacity to produce 10,000 gallons of wine each year. You’ll find wine for every palette here.

signature Lighthouse Amber and, most recently, the Winter Marzen, which is brewed with 100% German Malt and Noble German Hops. Still, establishing a brewery was no small task. “We wanted to do something positive for Cheboygan,” said McClurg. So he and Lorenz conducted research and discovered that, even in the midst of an economic recession, microbreweries are one of the fastest growing industries. Apparently, beer drinkers view a quality beer as an affordable luxury, even when their wallets might be a little light. Cheboygan Brewing Company’s focus on quality has been well received not just locally, but now in much of Michigan. The brewery has just installed a new 60-barrel finishing tank to double its capacity for 2012. A

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bottling line has also been installed so that retailers may now carry 12-ounce bottles of Cheboygan brew. That same beer can also be found on draught from Marquette to Flint, with new clients being added almost every week. But the best way to experience the Cheboygan Brewing Company is to go there yourself.

In the tap room, visitors can enjoy a perfectly brewed beer with the very kettle it was brewed in visible behind the bar. While sipping down the heritage of German and Cheboygan brewing, take time to read the displays and view the artifacts which convey a true connection with the past. In the summer, head outside to the patio or the porch above and relax while listening to the Cheboygan Brewhouse Band. Afterwards, be sure to take home a growler of “the beer that made Milwaukee jealous.” What started as a conversation in a brewery in San Diego, evolved to casual chatting on a beach in Florida and has led to Cheboygan being placed back on the map for brewing and on the tap for serving up some local history. With a connection to heritage, tradition, and quality beer, the future looks bright for those looking to quench their thirst in Northeast Michigan.

: b u l C s ’ r e t i r W h t i My time w

y r o t S e A Tru

by JON PAUL ROY

At a meeting of Beyond the Script, a writer’s group founded by and comprised of students from Tawas Area High School, students exercise their writing abilities to a level unattainable in class. Mandi Yoes, left, guides the group, but the discussion is primarily student-driven.

Special to the Guide

I step into A Different Blend, the premier coffee shop in East Tawas. Maybe it’s just me, but woven in with the warm aroma of the day’s brew there seems to be something else, something like... “Everyone has that window- they just need to pull the shade up.” I recall those words from Mandi Yoes as she and her students enter the dim interior of the little shop. The window Mandi speaks of looks out upon the sprawling vistas of fiction, upon the worlds cued to spring into being at the whim of a willing author. These students, from Tawas Area High School, are such authors. They are so willing, I’ve heard, that the students urged Mandi to hold

this special meeting of the Writer’s Club during their holiday break. So we find ourselves crowded around a grouping of cafe tables on this crisp December evening, instead of in the schoolroom they otherwise occupy every Tuesday once the final bell has rung. My presence at this session dictates an unusual flow of conversation. Because I am here as a journalist, the kids are obliged to share their feelings about this group they are in. Cassandra Gingrich explains, “The first day, I was terrified to share what I wrote. Now I love it.” I don’t have to wonder where that love comes from, since a few minutes later Taylor Knapp says, “The criticism is always to draw the potential out, not to say, ‘There is nothing there.’”

After completing a short writing prompt, in the order of their regular after-school practice, I get a glimpse of the critiquing prowess within this group: Taylor points out how another student’s writing blurs the line between the literal and the figurative. Mrs. Sass, eighth grade English teacher and frequenter of this group’s sessions, exclaims, “I walk out of there every Tuesday like, ‘This is so amazing! How did I get into this room?’” I’m starting to understand where she’s coming from. A couple weeks have passed, and now I am walking into Room #8 at Tawas High. “Writers Club,” as the students call it, is convening for the first time since that night at the coffee shop. I take my place at the fringes of the group of eight and

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begin putting my previous notes in order. Mandi is running late. Rather than kill time until her arrival, the kids initiate the session on their own. Spontaneously, even organically, they begin throwing out topics for a prompt. With a democracy so natural I’m still wondering if I missed a vote somewhere, a theme has been decided upon and eight heads are down, eight pencils are flying. Once in a while one student will look up and ask for an idea, several are offered, and the writing blazes on. Mandi comes in as the final words are being set down, and the discussion begins almost instantaneously. From my vantage as a fly on the wall, I witness something special: Ideas zip around the room at light speed. There is talk-out-ofturn. There is talk-in-turn. Mandi challenges a concept she hears. More heady questions boil up and the conversation changes direction, though with no less speed or sincerity. Concerns and difficulties are brought up by students, and again and again advice and supporting literary citations are offered by both Mandi and the other students. It’s all I can do to keep up with the flow. I’m getting a firm grasp of Mrs. Sass’s amazement with this group. Several more days come and go. In their passing, winter has finally swept down upon Tawas. I find myself trying to keep warm in my cabin this evening. I am alone with my thoughts. It occurs to me that, when I stepped into a Different Blend a few weeks back, what I had detected beneath the coffee shop atmosphere was the possibility that potential was being filled. The interim time and observations therein have confirmed it. To make myself quite plain, Mandi’s group serves a purpose that is truly awesome: it helps young minds find the tools to make their gifts grow. It’s an obvious conclusion, I admit. However, I think it’s crucial that we THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

keep this simple lesson in mind, and a critical time to do so. So much of what I’ve seen and heard about the American school system in the past few years indicates an ever-hastening shift from a learning institution toward a business model, where standardization of curriculum and testing in pursuit of state funding continually undercuts ingenuity in teaching and sensitivity to students needs. That’s a rich subject, one I urge everyone to learn more about. What all this means, in the context of my tale, is that young people with passionate interests fall through the cracks when there is no venue for them to build upon their skills. Beyond the Script is such a venue; a credit to this Iosco County community and an example of what is possible when a citizen meets a perceived need. The first time I spoke with Mandi Yoes, who graduated from Tawas High School, she said that substitute teaching at Tawas High revealed to her the interest in a writing group among a certain sector of the students. As she put it, “There was more creative self-expression than when I was there, when I was that age.” That may be. But I wonder if perhaps it’s just that there was no one there like the present day Mandi when she was a student, someone with the passion and an hour a week to spare. – John Paul Roy, 26, a department manager at Wal-Mart in Tawas City, lives in East Tawas with his wife Bracha. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Eastern Michigan University in 2009.

The

d e r h s

shack

everybody, but they are the ones who drove it.” Regardless of who shops at The Shred Shack, they’ll find brand name GRAYLING – This winter, if you’re looking to catch some air and goods from quality manufacturers such as Elan and Rome brand boards, shred a hill, head over to Hanson Ashberry goggles and gear, Dalbello Hills and their ever changing and boots, Holden and Grenade outer increasingly popular snowboard wear, Skull Candy head phones and terrain park. more. And come summer, if you want “The best thing we offer, is that to carve a line and grind some rails, people don’t have to buy online,” shoot over to Grayling Skate Park, Ventline says. “Here you can touch the skateboard and BMX park that area youth helped fund and build just feel it and try it on.” Recent snowfall has helped last year. increase business, according to Jon Handy, but it is The Shred Shack manager not like either man has nothing 607 James Street, Grayling else to do. When they aren’t on the Interstate-75 business loop in the shop they’re most often (989) 344-1177 out at Hanson Hills taking care of the terrain park, grooming Nordic trails or shredding the hill But if it is equipment, clothing or themselves. accessories you need to participate Handy, said that Hanson Hill’s in either sport, get over to the Shred terrain park has become a main Shack, the new freestyle sports attraction. shop located in this Crawford “We’re out there constantly County town. The store opened changing it and giving people what Dec. 1, offering everything for the they want,” he said, noting that this snowboarder, skateboarder and time of year the park also offers freestyle skier. downhill and Nordic skiing, as well “When the kids of Grayling went as tubing. Much of that is aimed at to the city looking for a skate park and then the city stepped up and built area youth. And while the ski hills are smaller than what can be found one, I thought , ‘Hey now, here’s elsewhere, Handy said it is perfect the kind of thing that we need to support,’” said Chad Ventline, owner. for young downhill skiers and that “it has that family vibe and that’s what “I don’t want to say it’s just for the people want.” young people because we cater to

By JERRY NUNN editor

Shred Sha and customck manager Jon Han dy er Danik M oes of Boy with friend ne City

While Ventline and Handy talk highly of Hanson Hills for the opportunity offered to local youth, they note that there are many venues for skiing and snowboarding within an easy drive of Grayling. Those places all help drive business to The Shred Shack as well said Handy, a freestyle enthusiast who has twice competed nationally. While Ventline and Handy are avid winter sports enthusiasts so, too, are Ventline’s kids. Hunter Ventline, 9, hopes to return to national competition for the second year in a row. That Jon Handy, Hunter Ventline and others travel to compete in national competitions gives Ventline one more way to promote, it also provides him with one more thing to promote as well. “A lot of these kids take this very seriously and they are very good at it,” Ventline said. “I think a lot of people think they are just out there messing around on the hill. But I want people, and parents especially, to know it’s a recognized sport, that these kids can go on to compete in national competition.” That Ventline takes the sport seriously stands to reason – he has based his business on it. But he says that’s for good reason as well.

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He just responded to what Grayling youth wanted and points to the Grayling Skate Park as a good example of the enthusiasm that surrounds skateboarding, snowboarding and freestyle skiing. “If these young people cared enough about their sport that they went out and volunteered to make it happen and then worked to build the skate park, that says a lot about their passion,” Ventline says. “I think we should get behind these kids.”

Cold Sweat Check out Hanson Hill’s Cold Sweat Series of snowboard competitions. Three events remain this year, including Big Air on February 4, Slope Style on February 17 and Get Lifted to Shredfest on March 10. To learn more about Hanson Hills Recreation Area and what they have to offer, including the Cold Sweat Series and other winter race events, go to HansonHills.org 25

By DENNIS MANSFIELD Special to The Guide GRAYLING - The name Cross Country Ski Shop isn’t new to Grayling or visitors seeking to explore outdoor opportunities in an area so rich with public land. Especially, during the wintertime. For decades, outdoor enthusiasts sought the Cross Country Ski Shop out, looking for products and services to aid their snow-bound adventures. But, that was then, when the store was located adjacent to the Ramada Inn, was owned and operated by Dick Fultz. And, this is now.

A quartet of new owners - Gabe and Karrie Williams, Brian Royce and Heather Compton - purchased the ski shop, allowing Fultz to retire, and opened a new 5,000-plus square foot location on M-72 West in Grayling in late October. The store’s new moniker, Northbound Outfitters & The Cross Country Ski Shop, pays tribute to its ancestry, as well as to the potential of its future. Karrie Williams said the new owners knew Fultz and look forward to continuing his tradition of serving Nordic skiers. “We all bought skis from Dick at one point or another,” she said. “We all enjoy skiing and being outdoors.

We wanted to continue to offer that That is, of course, after they’ve to people. We have a passion for it.” done some shopping. The passion is shared by the store’s The new store opened in the last staff, including Bob Smith, manager weekend of October 2011, with at the Cross Country Ski Shop and a grand opening celebration later owner of The Bicycle Shop, another during Thanksgiving Day weekend. former Fultz-owned business in Currently, the store is open 10 a.m. downtown Grayling. Smith said he to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, was lured up to northern Michigan 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and by Fultz, working at the bike shop in Saturdays, and then 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. the summer and then the ski shop in on Sundays. the winter. As the Cross Country Ski Shop “It flowed naturally,” he said of name implies, there’s plenty for the working between the two stores as Nordic ski enthusiast. That includes the seasons changed. “It’s a love of a manufacturers such as Rossignol, nature I have worked to never let go Fischer, Salomon, Aplina, Merrill, of. Keen, Columbia and others. “There’s just something about gliding on snow.” The new owners picked the new location for their enterprise for a reason. While the old store was hidden behind the hotel Northbound Outﬁtters sales and conference associate Craig Jacobs. center on the I-75 business loop, the new location is right on M-72, “Everything is geared toward being Grayling’s main thoroughfare. active,” Williams said. “We just wanted a little more There’s also canoes by We-no-nah. exposure,” Williams said. “Being A selection of kayaks should be in by on M-72, it gave us better exposure next summer. to people who maybe didn’t know One way the owners and staff at where Dick was.” Northbound Outfitters & The Cross Another advantage is having Country Ski Shop plan to grow, is Hanson Hills and it’s plethora of by filling the niche of offering not groomed cross country ski trials just only top-notch products, but also down the road on Old Lake Road. top-notch service. That means the “It’s a win-win,” she added. “We goal isn’t just to sell skis, clothing can send people right on their way to and accessories, but to make sure ski.” customers have the right equipment for their needs, Williams said.

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

Bob Smith, manager of the Cross Country Ski Shop and owner of the Bicycle Shop in downtown Grayling. “That’s our big focus, to make sure people are put on the right skis for them,” she said, adding customers can walk out the back door and try out skis on the store’s four acres of property. “We’re a full-service shop.” Another and very important service at the Cross Country Ski Shop is one offered thanks, in part, to a Montana Crystal SR grinder. Smith said the Montana Crystal SR allows the staff at the Cross Country Ski Shop to refurbish old Nordic skis. The grinder can be set to change the surface of the skis for different conditions, depending on the customer’s needs.

“It’s kind of a service for upperlevel skiers,” Smith said. “It allows us to compete with upper-level performance centers out there, even in other states, with what they’re doing. “It’s definitely a niche machine for a niche market, but that’s where we are.” For more information on store hours, products and services offered at Northbound Outfitters & The Cross Country Ski Shop, people may visit online at www.XCSkiShop.com or call 989-348-8558.

- Jim Smith also contributed to this story.

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RENT A SLED

Don and Ann Grafton of Ann’s Water-N-Woods Motel in Houghton Lake on two of the rental snowmobiles the business depends on to attract guest in the winter. and ATV’s, he’s not kidding about that either. “We get people from downstate, from Metro Detroit, Ohio, Indiana,” Don said. “ But we had four college BY JERRY NUNN students from Saudi Arabia come up editor and rent snowmobiles. We’ve had a group of guys from China, who HOUGHTON LAKE – When worked for a G.M. supplier. Don Grafton says that snowmobile “I could tell you some real stories,” rental is a big part of the operation he said. “We had a couple from India. at Ann’s Water-N-Woods Hotel, he’s They’re memorable because they being serious. The long stretch from showed up on Christmas morning deer season to Memorial Day can and wanted someone to go out with be particularly slow from a business them. My son was up for the holiday, stand point in Northeast Michigan, so he and I took them on a tour of the and Don’s Rent-N-Ride snowmobile trails. rental acts as a prime attractant “They drove real slow and were for guests of very cautious. Grafton’s hotel. They just wanted Rent a snowmobile in And when Don to see the snow Houghton Lake and you can enjoy Grafton says and take some folks come from Roscommon County’s 200 miles of pictures. We had a groomed trails or ride clear north to all over to rent great time.” his snowmobiles Mackinac Bridge. Go to: www.AmericanOakResort.com www.DonsRentNRide.com A favorite winter pastime helps break down a language barrier for a Roscommon County snowmobile rental

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

Doesn’t matter where you’re from, if you’re looking for great trail riding Roscommon County has it, with more than 200 miles of groomed trails. “The trails are fantastic. We’ve been grooming since we started getting the snow and they were

“We can rent them all on some of the busier weekends,” she says. “During that week between Christmas and New Years, if we have good snow, we can book our cabins.” Grafton and Pobocik both say it’s the woodland and snow that attract nearly all renters. Including those who come from afar. “I think it is pretty cool, the people I’ve met and some of the people we rent to,” Grafton said, noting that even the language barrier is something folks can get beyond when it comes to recreation. “There are a few differences. You know how we call the forests woods? People from India call it the jungle.” And while Grafton figures the guys from China “never understood a single word” he said the barrier was stricken moot when he gave out a small trinket as a souvenir. “They were made in China and those guys picked right up on that,” Grafton says. “We all got a good laugh from that.”

Rental snowmobiles await trail riders at American Oak Resort in Houghton Lake. Families and others rent the sleds to explore Roscommon County’s 200 miles of groomed trails and beyond. groomed before the snow fell to flatten the trails,” said Rick Hacker, owner of Hacker’s Yamaha & Honda in Houghton Lake. “They’re in perfect shape with this cold weather and we’re supposed to get more snow so we are looking forward to a great winter.” Across Roscommon County, three groups work to maintain those trails - Houghton Lake Trailblazers, Rosco-Higgins Trail Cruisers and the St. Helen Snowpackers. While the trails crisscross the county, they also lead somewhere else according to Jim Lyttle, owner of St. Helen Power Sports. “People can go pretty much anywhere they want from here,” Lyttle said. “From here you can go east to Lake Huron and north all the way to the Mackinac Bridge. “In

fact it’s kind of a neat place to stop. We’re at the southern edge of the snowbelt, so we get the snow, and with the price of gas it’s expensive to drive further north.” Rather than trailer those sleds further north, Lyttle says, park the truck and trailer in Roscommon

County and ride your machines from here. Or leave your snowmobiles home and rent them here, said Tracie Pobocik, owner of American Oak Resort, on Houghton Lake’s southern shore. You wouldn’t be alone. “In the past few years, with today’s economy, we started getting a lot of people who sold their machines and just rent them,” Pobocik said. “They still want to ride. They still want to get out and enjoy the snow.” “People don’t book as far in advance as they used to, because they don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow,” she said. “But we still get people who want to go on family vacation and who want to bring their kids.” THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

By JERRY NUNN editor

GLADWIN – Cross snow-covered paths with Rick Seebeck, when he’s out grooming the Nordic trails at the Gladwin County Recreation Area, and you won’t help but notice that Rick’s riding in style. The new Ski-Doo Skandic with the Ginzu groomer tagging along behind assure Seebeck of that. If the snow’s too deep you’ll find him atop a Polaris Ranger outfitted with tracks, as he lays down the corduroy on three miles of ski trails or fluffs a mile-and-a-half of pathway for snowshoers. The brand new equipment, purchased through grants from the U.S.D.A. and the local Seebeck Family Foundation, is a far cry from the dilapidated machinery he used just two years ago. “Before, for every hour I spent grooming the trails I spent three hours wrenching on equipment just to keep it running,” Seebeck says. “We went from breaking down all the time to the best grooming equipment you can buy. It’s made all the difference in the world.” If Seebeck is in luxury now so are local skiers, who use the convenient trail. “Since they started grooming, this has been wonderful,” said Mike Hottinger of Sheperd, a year-round park user who treks the hiking trails in summer with his wife, Jeanne. “This has been a good deal, Rick putting all of this together,” said Jeanne. That Seebeck “put all of this together” is hard to deny. The 160-acre park began as the privately-owned Gladwin Sportsmen’s Club but reverted to county ownership when the club

was dissolved. A popular place with locals, Gladwin County Recreation Area, provided access to the Cedar River, boasted a lodge of whole-log construction and gave folks a place to enjoy the wild. But recent economic difficulties found the county unable to fund park operations, according to County Commissioner Sharron Smith, a parks and recreation committee member. And that’s when Seebeck approached officials, asking if he could install and promote a trail system there. “Rick’s enthusiasm, energy and excitement - and you have to get all three of those - really showed through when he talked about his plans of what he wanted to do out there,” Smith said. A member of the Three Rivers Muzzle Loading Club who lives in the far end of the county and directs her recreational energies elsewhere, Smith said she is not a trail user, “but the people I’ve talked to, tell me it is absolutely phenomenal back there.” Makayla and Stephen Wilson would agree with that. The youngsters’ laughter filled the woods here following mid-January’s start to this year’s snowfall. There with their parents, Shannon and Brian Wilson, of Gladwin, Makayla, 7, and Stephen, 3, were making good use of a sledding hill tucked back in the woods and accessible by trail. “It is a perfect hill for kids,” said Shannon Wilson, noting the family lives “right down the road” from the park and rarely finds it crowded. “We run into a few people now and then, but they’re doing their thing and we are doing ours.” Of special attraction, Wilson says is the Cedar River, where a trail-side deck overlooks the water. And where

Gladwin County cabin-owners, Mike and Jeanne Hottinger, of Sheperd, enjoy the season’s ﬁrst snow at Gladwin County Park. In addition to skiing and other winter sports, the park features ﬁve miles of mountain bike trails, hiking trails and a half-mile of asphalt-paved, accessible trail. THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

the family uses the park more often in the summer, it proves convenient for local athletes from the Gladwin Public Schools as well. Wilson said her son, Kolton Wilson, 14, and his fellow cross-country athletes use the park’s trail system to train for their sport. Skier and snowshoer Greg Allington, of Gladwin, uses the park every weekend. “It’s a great trail system,” Allington said. “It’s really good for beginners because there aren’t a lot of big hills. There are few but they aren’t bad. It’s quiet too. Not a lot of people know about it.” Quiet maybe, but the park is getting greater use and gaining attention, just as Seebeck hoped it might. Sort of makes the work he’s done worth it. Besides grooming the trails every time it snows, Seebeck put in plenty of leg work to get these trails where they are today. Like the time he drove to St. Paul, Minnesota during a snowstorm, to pick up the high-mileage Ski Doo Alpine that was previously used to groom these trails. “It was the worst snowstorm I ever drove in,” Seebeck said, recalling

the minute that a Michigan State Police cruiser pulled up beside them on the expressway. “His lights were going so I pulled over. He said, ‘The expressway is closed, you’ll have to turn around and follow me back.’ We ended up waiting out the storm.” “That old Alpine was in pretty bad shape,” Seebeck says, noting it often caught fire while he was trying to groom. “You’d stop and throw snow on it to put the fire out and just carry on. Eventually, it caught on fire and the thing burned to the ground. It was the best thing that ever happened to me.”

Gladwin County Recreation Area

1365 Shaw Road, Gladwin

Once known as Gladwin Sportsmen’s club, the 160-acres park is located northwest of Gladwin, where Shaw Road meets Pratt Lake Road. To get from downtown Gladwin, go north on M-18 about two miles to Pratt Lake Road and turn west. Go three miles west on Pratt Lake Road and just beyond the curve. You’ll ﬁnd the park on the left. THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com

Simply Gourdgeous Simply Gordgeous Gourd Art by Bonita

You can get a look at the unique and beautiful gourd art of Bonnie Miner at the 4th Annual Blast the Blues fundraiser and other art shows. For a private showing or for more information call (989) 312-1300.

By JERRY NUNN editor

WEST BRANCH – An old moldy gourd is no thing of beauty. But in the creative hands of Bonnie Miner the dried gourds take on a natural, rustic charm that is as earthy and exquisite as it is unique. Or, as Miner likes to say, they are Simply Gourdgeous. For all the beauty that Miner coaxes from the weathered gourds, she doesn’t consider herself an artist. “I’m a person who, growing up, saw art as important,” Miner said. “I never studied art. But my parents were very talented in many areas. There was not a task they would not try.” Inspired by that premeditated confidence, it is understandable how Miner took up her craft three years ago. But it wasn’t her intentions at the time. Back then, shortly after losing her business, The Frame Shop & Gallery to an unsolved arson, 32

Miner was adrift and undirected, unsure what the future held. While visiting friends in Casa Grande, Arizona, Miner and a group of friends were treated with a trip to an art show by her hosts Mike and Verna Ehinger, of West Branch. There she bought an intricately decorated gourd as a gift for her daughter. “After I left, I never thought another thing about it,” Miner said.

Upon their return to Ogemaw County, one of those friends, the late Ray Kartes, bought an unfinished gourd at a garage sale. His wife Sally’s reaction to the 50-cent puchase was understandable, given the raw condition of the gourd. “She said ‘Get that nasty thing out of here,’” Miner recalls. “It was the ugliest thing you ever saw.” To Miner’s surprise, Kartes gave her the gourd. To her delight, after

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

hours of scrubbing the gourd’s unpolished attraction revealed itself. “Because he gave it to me I wanted to do something with it,” Miner said. “After I cleaned it, I was amazed. That gourd had absolutely beautiful markings.” While the gourd was attractive its natural form, Miner set turquoise along the natural scars and decorated the gourd with silver chain.

“That was the beginning of it,” Miner says. And Sally Kartes’es reaction now says it all. “She said ‘You know, Ray said you could practice on it but he wanted it back when you were done,’” Miner says. “It’s mine now. This is the gourd that I will always keep.” Fortunately, through Gourd Art by Bonita, Miner produces plenty of gourds that she’s willing to sell.

4th Annual Blast the Blues a Tolfree Foundation event When: April 26, 5 to 9 p.m. Where: Dean Arbor Ford, West Branch Cost: $20 per person Featuring the blues music of The DeVilles, as well as the Hale String Ensemble, with local area artists on display and a broad sample of area restaurants. Proceeds from this year’s event go towards a new X-ray machine for the West Branch Regional Medical Center emergency room. Info: (989) 343-3700. 33

It’s the natural markings and shape of the gourds that direct Miner’s artistic hand. While some remain more rustic and natural – adorned with etchings and leaves cut from other gourds – others gain a tribal pattern, feminine figures or a southwestern motif. “I have quite a few categories of design,” Miner said, noting it takes two hours or more to clean the gourds. “I have a series of women that I do that is very popular. I do a lot of three dimensional leaves. I do beadwork. I do a contemporary type of series.” The gourds are a thick-walled variety that come from Southern California. Many are carved and most are etched with a wood burner. Some are functional and have lids; others are more decorative in design. Paint is U.V. resistant, to allow the natural pattern to show through, Miner said. “People ask where I come up with the design and I tell them I don’t even think about it. It just goes where it goes,” Miner said.

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

igh risk heart health

Residents of Northeast Michigan face higher rates of heart disease, as well as associated heart attacks and strokes. Here are some suggestions to help minimize the risk.

By LYN BEHNKE

nurse practitioner St. Joseph Health Systems

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in both women and men, especially in Northeast Michigan. According to the Center for Disease Control, five counties in NE Michigan – Alcona, Arenac, Iosco, Ogemaw and Roscommon Counties – have the highest numbers of people with heart disease. Known as the silent killer, symptoms of cardiovascular disease may never be revealed until a person suddenly dies. In addition to the normal risks faced by everyone, residents here suffer increased risks because of our northern location. Since we live so close to the 45th parallel, with a corresponding shortage of sunshine for a good portion of the year, vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are very 34

common issues in our communities. Low levels of Vitamin D are related to heart disease, according to the Archives of Internal Medicine, and it has been estimated that 85-percent of people living at our latitude are vitamin D deficient. A lab test can tell what your vitamin D level is. Your mom or grandmother may have made you take a spoonful of Cod Liver Oil. Cod Liver oil is a good source of vitamin D, however there many more palatable forms available in supplements. A review of existing literature, published in the Journal of Women’s Health, found a seasonal increase in heart attack and stroke not only in winter, but also on Mondays. The seasonal increase can be blamed on

Residents of Northeast Michigan are at a higher risk of heart disease, leading to a greater number of strokes and heart attacks. Reasons for the increased risk are: • vitamin D deficiency from lack of sunshine • increased strain on the heart when shoveling snow • sedentary lifestyles due to the weather.

Those risk are in addition to the normal risks: • • • • • • •

age family history gender high C-reactive protein high levels of bad cholesterol lack of exercise obesity

shoveling snow, an extremely taxing form of exercise. In 1994, Beaumont Hospital’s cardiac rehab program in Birmingham, MI presented a paper to cardiologists showing that shoveling snow takes more energy than performing a stress test. Exercise is measured in metabolic equivalent tasks; MET values of exercise tell us how intense an activity is. For example: running at 5 mph has a MET value of 8.3. Shoveling snow has a MET level of 5.3 to 7.5 depending on effort expended. Using a snow blower, a much safer option of moving snow, decreases that MET level to 2.5. Checking your snow blower for proper operation in the fall, and keeping it properly tuned after the snow begins to fall, will help assure its dependability all winter long. To decrease your risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in the winter, and also on Mondays, remember proper prior planning prevents problems. Start your exercise program before snow falls, to start getting your body in shape, and continue it all winter to assure continued good health. Consult your health care provider as to whether you are healthy enough to start a program. Your program doesn’t have to be too difficult. Start by walking every day. Northeast Michigan offers lots of places to

THE GUIDE • FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012

• • • • •

post-menopausal race and ethnicity smoking uncontrolled diabetes uncontrolled high blood pressure • uncontrolled stress and anger walk including community centers, schools, large stores and churches. For an even greater exercise experience, do your walking at one of our bountiful state parks. Walking at a slow walk, watching birds has a MET level of 2.5. Gradually increasing your intensity helps get you ready for winter activities. Another fun way to start getting yourself in shape might look like taking a lesson from the kids. Using video game programs such as Wii Fit or Xbox Kinect can help you increase your physical fitness when the weather prevents outside activity. Many of those games are physically demanding and will help train your heart and muscles. Dancing is a favorite healthy activity. Find a way to move your body that works for you and your heart will thank you. Reading is also a good activity for winter. Thinking about your risk for heart disease and reading about how to decrease those risks are a great way to spend a blustery day. The library has a multitude of self-help books on everything from how to develop exercise plans to preparing lower sodium, heart healthy recipes to warm up your kitchen on those cold winter nights. Follow these suggestions and you’ll be well on your way to good fitness and winter-time heart health. Now, how do we get over Mondays?

Guinness Beef Stew

From Tim’s Kitchen By TIM REED

Guinness Beef Stew Ingredients • 2 lbs bottom round beef roast – sliced into ¾ to 1 inch chunks • Vegetable oil as needed • 1½ cups Guinness Stout • 3 tablespoons tomato paste • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • 1½ cups homemade beef stock • 3 bay leaves • 2½ cups chopped onions • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar • 2 cups peeled & sliced parsnips Pat beef dry with paper towels. Heat about one teaspoon vegetable oil in a well seasoned cast iron skillet. Brown beef in small batches – do not crowd or the beef will steam rather

than browning. Add additional oil as needed. As the beef is browned remove to a stock pot.

Add additional oil to skillet – over low to medium heat, sweat onions for 7 or 8 minutes then the garlic and continue to sweat for about five minutes – do not overcook or garlic will be bitter. Add brown sugar plus approximately half cup of stout to pan to deglaze - scrape up all browned bit remaining in the pan then transfer to stock pot – this is all flavor.

Add all remaining ingredients to stock pot then simmer until beef & parsnips are tender – approximately an hour. Season to taste with Kosher salt and freshly ground course black pepper. At this point remove bay leaves. However some folks believe that if you receive a bay leave in your

serving is supposed to bring good luck. Tim Reed www.reedsriver.com The absolute best beef stock is scratch made from oven roasted beef bones that are then simmered with vegetables, spices & herbs. Numerous recipes are available in the internet. – Tim Reed and his wife Sandy own Reeds on the River in Tawas City, where this special menu item and other delectable recipes are served.

THE GUIDE • InfoNortheast.com