Info Northeast's The Guide to Northeast Michigan by The Guide

INDEX 5 8 9 11-14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23

Enbridge Movin’ on up Express Recovery New from the north Outside the box Word find Huron Pines Pockrandt’s Sandie’s Galley Making a difference Fusion Jewelry MarMar Gourmet

The Guide

to Northeast Michigan

covering the counties of Alcona, Arenac, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Ogemaw, Oscoda and Roscommon JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011 Volume 2, Issue I Published by: Info Northeast Jerry Nunn, editor Tanger Outlet Center Office: (989) 345-0356 • Cell: (989) 780-0900 jnunn@infonortheast.com Contributing writers: Patrick Ertel, Jerry Nunn, Allison Nunn, Shannon Nunn, Sandie Parker, Jim Smith and Kelly Trainor Advertising sales and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 Layout and design: K. Neff Photographics kneffphotographics@mac.com

PW On-Location Photography Penny Wojahn • (989) 305-1722 sunrisepenny@yahoo.com See some of my photography at www.ﬂickriver.com/search/sunrisepenny/recent

Region wide, Northeast Michigan’s per capita and household incomes are nearly 30percent below the state averages while unemployment here leads the state more often than not. About 4-percent more of our residents live in poverty, compared to elsewhere in Michigan. Numbers tell us we are homogenous, American-born and less apt to hold a college Northeast Michiganʼs study, poll and census numbers degree. often draw a bleak conclusion. Add those numbers up, But Northeast Michigan has a whole lot to however, and youʼll find Northeast Michigan to be an offer and numbers tell an underlying story as exceptional place. well. As a culture we are settled, change residencBy JERRY NUNN es less often and, while houses here are worth EDITOR 25-percent less than the state average, more of She stopped short of calling me a liar but us own the homes we live in. took no effort to hide her doubt. In a way, you Census data indicates that only half our cannot blame her but at the same time I was homes are occupied full time. What it doesn’t disappointed. Not so much in her rejection of say is that the other half is cabins and cotour goal to promote Northeast Michigan. tages owned by folks with a primary residence No, my disappointment came from her dis- elsewhere. belief in the numbers I gave; facts and figures Raw numbers tell us that our population is that define our rural, wooded region of the decreasing as folks seek opportunity in more state. robust markets. What the charts don’t tell you The conversation was anything but private, is that our population grows older, not due to held between myself and a panel of half-ayoung folks leaving, but rather because retirdozen judges, before 120 attendees at a Great ees move here looking for laid-back lifestyles Lakes Entrepreneur’s Quest conference. unavailable anywhere else. GLEQ is a state-wide organization promotIn some counties, less than half the land is ing entrepreneurial spirit by guiding, coaching privately owned. In Crawford and Roscommon and arranging funding for new industry in the Counties, the State of Michigan holds title to fields of energy, manufacturing and informamore than 60-percent of the total property. In tion technology. nearly all eight counties of Northeast MichiYou see, early on in our venture we felt a gan, the state and federal governments hold need for outside advice. So there I stood, con- huge tracts of land in trust that locals and visifronting a group of industry big-wigs and busi- tors alike use as their personal playgrounds. ness promoters; folks who live in Ann Arbor, Skiing and snowmobiling, sledding and Lansing, Grand Rapids or Detroit. skating allow us to enjoy our abundant winter. Unfortunately, the numbers that I bandied Camping, hiking, biking, canoeing and boating about were just too small for the panel memmake northern summers seem far too short. bers to comprehend. Meanwhile, bird watching, wildlife viewing, “What area do you plan to cover?” the lady hunting and fishing are year-round activities asked. that folks here enjoy to the point of taking for “Eight counties in Northeast Michigan,” I granted. repeated, “4,300 square miles with a populaAll the facts above are supported by hard tion less than 150,000.” numbers. Look closely and they reveal the “That cannot be right,” came her definitive exceptions rather than the rules. reply, “You need to check those numbers.” And just like those who live here and those I should have politely retired right then folks who come here to play, if Northeast and there. Every number I gave flew under Michigan is anything it is exceptional. her radar, while the idea of promoting such Given another chance, I’ll present Miss a sparsely populated region of the state went Doubtful the numbers to prove it. over her head. And just like those who live here and those As I said, who can blame her? folks who come here to play, if Northeast The eight counties covered in the Guide to Michigan is anything it is exceptional. Northeast Michigan cover 4,306 square miles; Given another chance, I’ll present Miss 147,550 people live there. Doubtful the numbers to prove it. At first glance that may not look like much. INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

CALENDAR OF EVENTS January

4: Drum Circle, 5-6 p.m. every Tuesday, at Dharma Records in Grayling, open to the public and no rhythm required. Info: (989) 344-1228. 5-7: Kirtland Community College, winter registration, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday. Info: (9989) 275-5000 ext. 284 or online at kirtland.edu

See your Northeast Michigan event or your high resolution photograph on these pages. Send them by email, along with a phone number where you may be reached, to jnunn@infonortheast. com. Put “calendar of events” in the subject line. person teams with men, women and co-ed divisions, relaxed start, each member must complete one timed loop before noon and combined times determine winners. Cost is $45 per team. Info: (989) 348-9266. 8: Winter Trail Days, at Hanson Hills Winter Sports Park, a chance for kids and adults to try new snow sports. Info: (989) 348-9266. 9: Hanson Hoppers Learn to

15: Buffet and Ski Event, to support Ogemaw Hills Pathways, at the West Branch Country Club, 3 to 9:30 p.m., with a buffet and cash bar at the Fairway Bistro 5:30-8:30. Tickets cost $25. Info” (989) 345-2821. 15-16: Snowshoe Lacing Workshop at Hartwick Pines State Park, learn to lace a bearpaw snowshoe in this two day class, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Bring your own lunch, reservation required, $160 cost per person 7-8: Hale YES! Winterfest, with includes $25 registration fee. Info: events taking place all around (989) 348-2537. Hale; featuring a vintage snow16: Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tourmobile show and swap, chili nament, $25 buy-in, sponsored by cook-off, ice ﬁshing competition, the Beaverton Lions Club at the out house races, creative snowBeaverton Community Center. man and snow sculpture contest, Info: (989) 435-8435. Murder Mystery dinner, games for 17-21: Silver Steak Week, at kids and adults. Buttons for entry Cross Country Ski Headquarters. cost $5 in advance or $7 at the Skiers 60-years-and-older get a festival and many events are free. free facility pass, and a free trial Ski Program, Sundays at 11 a.m. Info: (989) 728-2525. of skis or snowshoes, along with for youngsters 4- to 7-years-old; 8: Michigan Cup Team Time Trials, Nordic ski race, 10 a.m. at four or eight week program, until free coffee or hot cocoa. Info: (800) 832-2663. February 27, cost is $89 for four Hanson Hills, Grayling. Three19: Hanson Ridge Snowshoe weeks and $119 for eight weeks. Tour, to celebrate the new snow(989) 348-9266. Every attempt at accuracy has Info: 9: Snowboard Academy, at Han- shoe trails at Hanson Hill Winter been made while producing this son Hills Winter Sports Park, for Sports Park, with a guided tour, an calendar of events. Nonetheless, beginning snowboarders 8-years- evening snowshoe hike, free cocoa, cookies and soup. Headlights and older; four or eight week events can change or mistakes old and snowshoes required. Info: program, until February 27, cost can be made. Thus, it is never a is $89 for four weeks and $119 for (989) 348-9266. bad idea to call ahead, before eight weeks. Info: (989) 348-9266. 21-24 & 28-31: 61st Annual TipUp Town USA, on the south shore of 15: Chili Cook-Off at Mio heading out on that three hour Houghton Lake, featuring a carnival, Moose Lodge. Info: (989) 826vendors, rides, competitions, kids drive north. 6081. THE GUIDE

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events, a family tent, torch light parade, fishing contests, polar bear dip, beverage tent and more. Info: (800) 676-5330. 23: Garden Seed Swap, featuring plenty of heirloom varieties for swap or sale, 2 p.m. at West Branch Greenhouse. Info: (989) 345-1133. 28: Violinist Gabriel Bolkosky, at the Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, Kirtland Community College; witness the serenity of a master without a hint of coldness, show starts at 7 p.m., tickets cost $16 and $14. Info: (989) 275-6777 or online at kirtlandcenter.com.

10: Sunrise Creations Winter Art Show, at the medical Art Center in West Branch hosted by Tolfree Foundation and West Branch Creative Arts Association. Info: (989) 343-3690. 12: The Red Green Show, featuring funnyman Steve Smith of “The Red Green Show” at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets cost $34 and $32 with performances at 2 and 7 p.m. Info: (989) 275-6777 or online at kirtlandcenter.com. 13: 21st Annual Snowbox Derby, on the Hill at Old Orchard Park, Oscoda; featuring cardboard and paper mache sleds; with youth, family, adult, young adult and business classes competing in four categories, gates open at 10 a.m., registration required to race. Info: (989) 739-7322. 18-19: Higgins Lake-Roscommon Winterfest, featuring cross country skiing, crazy cardboard classic sled race, chili cook-off, broomball competition, ice slide and more. Info: (989) 275-8760. 25: Eisenhower Dance Ensemble, 7 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts, Kirtland Community College. Celebrate the dance company’s 20th anniversary; tickets cost $10. Info: (989) 275-6777 or online at kirtlandcenter.com. 28-29: 45th Annual Sno*Drift Rally, perfor26-27: Michigan Cat 500 Snowmobile Races, at mance road race, headquartered in Atlanta, running the ARA site in Lincoln; 9 a.m. Sat. and 10 a.m. through Hillman and Lewiston and held entirely in Sunday. Info: (989) 736-9943. Montmorency County. Info: www.sno-drift.org. 26-27: Snowshoe Lacing Workshop at Hartwick 29: Corsair Concert Series presents Frank SoliPines State Park, Grayling; learn to lace an Ojibwa van & Dirty Kitchen, a group that’s built a name snowshoe in this two day class, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for itself through solid musicianship, stellar song- Saturday and Sunday. Bring your own lunch, reserwriting, excellent vocals and an enthusiastic live vation required, $160 cost per person includes $25 show. Tickets cost $15, show time at 7:30 p.m., registration fee. Info: (989)348-2537. at the Tawas United Methodist Church Family 27: Junior Muffin 8K Duathalon Classic, at Center, on highway M-55, Tawas City. Info: (989) Cross Country Ski Headquarters, Roscommon. A 362-2001. junior girls and boys 8K race with a classic first half and free-style second half. Registration at 10 a.m., race starts at 11, with additional racing for senior racers 13-years-old and older. Info: (800) 3-6: 61st Annual Perchville USA, on the shore 832-2663. of Tawas Bay, featuring chili cook-off, polar bear dip, family tent, beverage tent, dog pulls and much more. Info: (989) 362-8643. 5-6: Old Man’s Iron 150 vintage snowmobile 4-6: Camp Warm Hearts, weekend winter grief races, at the ARA site in Lincoln. Info: (989) 736camp for children and teens ages 5-15 who have 9943 or lincolntool@yahoo.com. experienced the death of a loved one, hosted by 12: Irish Rovers, at Kirtland Center for the Hospice of Helping Hands. Info: (800) 992-6592. Performing Arts, Kirtland Community College.

International ambassadors of Irish music, the Irish Rovers delight audiences with their exciting stage shows; tickets cost $28 and $26; show starts at 7 p.m. Info: (989) 275-6777 or online at kirtlandcenter.com. 14: 100th Anniversary of West Branch Greenhouse. Join the celebration with history, memorabilia and more. Bring your own greenhouse story. Info: (989) 345-1133. 17: St. Patrick’s Day Reuben sandwiches, on the menu at Mio Moose Lodge. Info: (989) 826-6081.

February

March

INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

Diverting Disaster

This road crossing of Enbridge Line 5, located on the site of a larger Enbridge facility across from West Branch airport, is better marked than most road crossings. A little further north the line cross the West Branch of the Riﬂe River.

Northeast Michigan has plenty to learn from the catastrophic Enbridge oil spill on the Kalamazoo River. By JERRY NUNN Editor Last summer’s tragic 800,000 gallon oil spill on the Enbridge pipeline in Calhoun County left southern Michigan residents with plenty of questions. Folks in Northeast Michigan must listen to the response. Built in 1963, the Enbridge pipeline that ruptured near Marshall can transport 283,000 barrels-per-day. Enbridge Line 5, built in 1953, runs though Northeast Michigan carrying 490,000 bpd. Lessons in disaster preparedness, taught after-the-fact to folks downstate, can be readily applied in Northeast Michigan well before a similar disaster occurs here. In highly populated Calhoun County, local authorities were tipped-off to a foul, petroleum-based odor by folks living near the disaster site. Three times, local firefighters from The City of Marshall and Marshal Township responded to those calls without discovering the cause. Nonetheless, the leak may have continued for 24 hours before its ultimate discovery by an employee of Consumers Energy. It is that period of time that should raise our greatest concern. To depend on such an early warning here in Northeast Michigan, where population density measures less than a tenth what it does near Marshall, and where the pipeline flows through pristine forests far from any residence,

is an invitation to unmitigated environmental disaster. Unfortunately, early warning systems put in place by Enbridge failed just as miserably. Though the exact time that the leak began has not been determined, an abrupt pressure loss on line 6B was noted at 5:58 p.m. on Sunday, July 25. The leak, however, was not confirmed until the following day at 11:30 a.m. and went unreported to federal regulators until 1:33 p.m. Enbridge employees monitoring the pipeline from a remote control room in Alberta, Canada, worked unsuccessfully through the night troubleshooting the frequent pressure alarms that indicated a problem near Line 6B’s Marshall pumping station. Towards morning, long after the pipe had started to leak, Enbridge employees made the vain and misdirected attempt to resolve the problem by turning pumps on and off while increasing the pipeline’s pressure. On Monday morning, an Enbridge employee dispatched to the scene confirmed that pressure in the line was zero but noted that he “didn’t see anything.” During all this time, 20,000 barrels or more of West Canadian crude oil contaminated Talmadge Creek and flowed into the Kalamazoo River, wreaking environmental disaster to 30 miles of waterway. It cannot be stated more clearly that few entities have a greater interest in preventing a leak than Enbridge Energy Partners. Estimated costs for cleanup run as high as $400,000 and the company is on the hook for the entire amount. Enbridge officials did use poor judgment in some decisions. In Calhoun County, Enbridge purchased 17 homes whose values were adversely affected by the spill. But those purchase agreements came after the company’s THE GUIDE

initial response to homeowners, which asked residents to forfeit rights in exchange for assistance from Enbridge. A political uproar made the company change its course and stop asking that legal waivers be signed. Indeed, most reports from agency leaders, as well as state and federal regulators, note that Enbridge ofﬁcials behaved in a responsible manner once cleanup got underway. Yet troubling facts remain beyond the ridiculously confused initial response to the massive oil leak. For starters, many folks – including the leaders of area agencies – were unaware that the 40-year-old pipeline traversed their community. In defense of Enbridge, the hazardous liquids industry as a whole and the pipeline industry

Enbridge Line 5

as it traverses Northeast Michigan

in particular hold annual meetings problems before they result in a leak. and send out flyers to keep local Yet inspection oversight may be officials, contractors and residents informed. In addition, company of- lacking. For the majority of pipelines, inficials have demonstrated a willingspections are currently not mandatness to address individual fears. ed; even the most stringent pipeline When a story voicing the consafety criteria merely demands cerns of AuSable River angler inspection every five years. Those organizations ran in the Traverse regulations apply to areas deemed City Record-Eagle, Enbridge officials phoned organization leaders by the PHMSA to be “High Consequence Areas,” high population the following day to discuss their zones, environmentally sensitive worries. areas or navigable waterways, and Nonetheless, officials whose roles will prove crucial in the event neither the PHMSA nor Enbridge will reveal of a leak are apparMaps of all our nation’s pipelines, exactly where ently left off the viewable by county, are provided those HCA’s are invitation list. located. Calhoun County to the public by the National Either way, Health Department Pipeline Mapping System, available Enbridge spokesofficials commend on the website of the Pipeline person LorEnbridge, noting the and Hazardous Materials Safety raine Grymala company reimAdministration. Maps can be viewed points out that it bursed the agency here: makes no sense for expenses inwww.npms.phmsa.dot.gov/ to inspect some curred from the sections while leak the very next ignoring others. While Grymala day following submission of an invoice for services. Frighteningly would not say how often Enbridge pipelines are inspected, she did say however, the most senior official that all the company’s pipelines at the Health Department did not are inspected “regularly” and at even know the pipeline crossed intervals more frequent than those their community until July’s leak demanded by regulators. occurred. An increased inspection schedule Brad Jenson, director of the makes good sense from a corporate Northeast Michigan conservation organization, Huron Pines, is well standpoint as well as environmentally but it also leads to further aware that Enridge Line 5 cuts a concerns. swath through Huron Pine’s area Tests on Enbridge Line 6B of greatest interest. But Jenson has never been asked to attend an infor- performed in 2007 and 2009 found more than 200 anomalies (industry mational industry meeting. jargon for corrosion, pitting, dents Facts do bolster the company’s or cracks.) While decisions on how claim of corporate responsibility. best to repair the flaws were being Pipeline inspection, regulated made, the company’s answer was nationally by the Pipeline and to reduce pressure in the pipeline. Hazardous Materials Safety AdAs part of the company’s Line 6B ministration, is nearly an industry restart plan filed with PHMSA, fedunto its own. Electronic monitoreral regulators ordered 154 of those ing allows flaws in pipelines to anomalies fixed within 180 days of be found with no disturbance to start-up. the lines, while robotic inspection devices known as smart pigs can be run through the lines and foretell INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

No one from the company does not. Our state’s 2,879 miles or from federal agencies will Among those agencies and of pipeline operation is left to say if similar anomalies exist organizations left with questions the oversight of the understaffed on Line 5. PHMSA. following this summer’s Enbridge The issue is highly politiEnbridge has sworn it will oil spill is the West Michigan cal. When U.S. safety authoruphold corporate responsibility. ities threatened to close Line Environmental Action Council. While Work will slow for the winter 6B until broader repairs were the council’s inquiry comes after a but come spring, company of1-million gallon leak had occurred made, Canadian politicians ficials have said they will return threatened to invoke Fair in force to finish cleaning the in their backyard, folks in Northern Trade rules to get the pipeenvironmental disaster. Michigan have the enviable ability line flowing again. Cleanup will continue. to inquire on the issue before a Nonetheless, given the But there is no reason to expolitical sensitivity of the oil similar disaster occurs here. To view pect that a similar environmental the questions that WMEAC asks, look disaster won’t eventually happen spill issue right now, greater regulation may be on the here in Northeast Michigan. them up online: horizon. That’s not to place blame. tinyurl.com/287bwgf Proposed legislation, the Materials grow old, systems fail “Strengthening Pipeline Safety and Enforcement and our march of progress demands more and Act of 2010,” would increase fines for a single more energy. serious pipeline incident from $1 million to $2.5 But it should stand as a lesson. If folks in West million. It would also authorize 40 new inspecBranch, Mio, Gaylord or Indian River want tion and enforcement personnel. someone to learn from, turn to those folks in The legislation would bring current rules conMarshall who just suffered from a fate that cerning inspection frequency under review and could just as easily befall us. mandate that all pipelines undergo more rigorous Sooner or later those folks will receive their inspections. answers. When they do, Northeast Michigan While 16 states have inspection or regulatory must heed the response. agencies that oversee pipeline safety, Michigan

THE GUIDE

As Line 5 of the Enbridge Lakehead Pipeline System traverses Northeast Michigan, the line runs through numerous wetlands and crosses hundreds of small creeks. In addition the line crosses or encroaches on the following major river systems: • Crosses the West Branch of the Rifle River, onehalf mile north of West Branch Airport. • Crosses the West Branch of Big Creek, a tributary of the AuSable, twice, once southwest of Luzerne and again west of Luzerne and just north of State Highway M-72. • Crosses the AuSable River west of County Highway 489 and the Parmalee Bridge, between Sohn and Beaver Creeks. • Skirts the Black River, northwest of Johnsons Crossing. • Passes through the Pigeon River National Forest before crossing the Pigeon River west of Beaver Marsh. • Runs alongside of the Sturgeon River before crossing it just south of Indian River. • Runs along I-75 between Burt and Mullett Lakes. • Line 5 crosses the Straits of Mackinac about five miles west of Mackinaw City.

Movin’ on up!

Downstate business man plants roots of success amongst Northeast Michigan’s forest.

Northern Michigan is one of our ucts such as doors, cabinets, shelving and other products. Monarch’s nation’s major suppliers of wood products meet the federal governproducts of all types and our history is linked to the lumber indus- ment’s new No-Formaldehyde try from the earliest settlers to the Requirements for construction of government products. modern strand board processing Hees still retains ownership plants. While large manufacturers By JIM SMITH of the Spring Window Fashions like Georgia-Pacific and Weyerand JERRY NUNN building, along with the new haeuser are well represented, the GRAYLING – Tucked into a majority of wood product compa- Monarch Mill operation. Both of relatively small building in this these facilities generate significant nies are small and independently town’s industrial park is a big quantities of sawdust. owned. northern success story. In 2006, Mike saw an opportuniThey are guys like Hees: The And, for Mike Hees, owner of ty to utilize this waste product and pulp cutters, millers and sawyers Michigan Wood Pellet, northern started convertwho have been entrepreneurial accomplishment ing the sawdust operating in the comes in groups of three. into pellets for North Country In 1981, Hees and his father use in the new for decades. owned a small contract packaging Like Hees, these stoves that were company downstate in Plymouth. small, manufaccoming to market Because of their knowledge of as a result of skyturers turn out wood products, the father and son pallets a host rocketing fuel pair were contacted by Michigan costs. of products for State University’s Forestry DeSince then the down-stream partment and asked to develop a company has run manufacturing way to utilize a previously unustwo shifts quite and retail sales able wood, the popular, or aspen alike. Similarly, Meet Mike Hees. His inventiveness consistently, the as it is commonly called. first to manumany of these resulted in dozens of jobs in the That is all it took for Hees to facture wood businesses pass Crawford County area. pack up and head for Grayling. laminates and the from father to Hees found the area attracsecond shift to son and are tive for three reasons: a major convert sawdust from two operaowned by third, fourth and fifth highway, railway availability and generations. tions into heating pellets. They are a plentiful supply of aspen. He Nonetheless, in 2003, Hees sold sold throughout the state. opened a small plant at the south Mike Hees graduated from the Custom Forest Products to Spring end of Grayling’s then-new indus- Window Fashions. University of Michigan Engineertrial park and began an experimen- But Hees was not about to leave ing School and joined the family tal operation to determine if aspen Grayling. business in Plymouth before he could be dried in a manner resultstruck out on his own and headed He simply moved up the road ing in usable lumber. for Grayling. He has been married a few hundred yards, built a new Within two years Custom Forfor 25 years and has two grown plant called Monarch Millwork est Products had developed the children, both recently graduated and started manufacturing architechnology and started turning from college. While Hees came tectural mill work. out Aspen components for door Hees new product is ecological- north strictly for business, he manufacturers. quickly learned to appreciate the ly inert laminated panels utilized Hees is certainly not alone. by makers of finished wood prod- out-of-doors.

Wood is his business

INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

Freeway the trumpeter swan stands calmly by as volunteer Vie Woll of Moorestown, prepares meals for creatures at ARK – the Association to Rescue Kritters. Sometime around the opening day of deer season, Freeway was shot with a small caliber firearm. Now the bird recovers at the Roscommon County wildlife shelter.

Express Recovery

“When he was right there on the side of the road I figured he’d had a mishap with a car or truck,” Fruehauf said, noting that is an alltoo-common injury that large birds By JERRY NUNN often suffer when rising out of a Info Northeast editor ditch or roadside waterway. “Not ST. HELEN – With four weeks with swans so much but it does happen. They can’t tell the speed of curative care under his feathered frock, Freeway the trumpeter or distance, or misjudge the height swan is healing nicely. If all goes of a truck.” It was not until observing the as it appears, he should join his bird the following day that Frueavian associates back in the wild hauf realized what had occurred. about the time this story hits the “He was limping and couldn’t press. Shot through the abdomen with fly but I couldn’t tell why. It was a small caliper rifle, the bird could two volunteers walking behind him who noticed. They saw that neither fly nor walk when it was the feathers were matted under his recovered Nov. 15. Aptly named left wing,” Fruehauf said. From Freeway, the injured bird was captured alongside I-75 in south- the angle at which she observed, ern Roscommon County by Ruth Fruehauf could never have deFruehauf, owner of ARK, the As- tected the injury. “There was not blood or anything, but the feathers sociation to Rescue Kritters. were wet and matted.” Through the compassionate atA quick trip to West Branch tention of ARK volunteers, Freeway should come out of the trag- Veterinary Services for x-rays confirmed the diagnosis. A ragged edy with little more than a limp. trail left by a small caliber bullet When Fruehauf first responded showed the bullet’s path from the to the call of a down swan along I-75, she thought the big bird had thigh below, to the hidden exit wound under the wing. been struck by a car. THE GUIDE

The physiological structure of a swan prevented surgery but Freeway was treated against infection and returned to Fruehauf’s care. The bad news is that a bullet fragment remains lodged against Freeway’s hip. One concern is: Will the lead bullet affect the bird’s health? Fruehauf believes the piece that remains is too small to cause harm. Of greater worry is the apparently permanent limp the fragment causes. “That’s a big concern,” Fruehauf says, noting that a dry-land takeoff requires considerable speed. “To be released he has to be able to run fast enough to get airborne.” At 25-35 pounds and with an eight-foot wingspan, trumpeter swans are the world’s largest waterfowl. Decimated by human development and market hunting during the 1800s, trumpeters numbered only 33 pair in the entire nation by 1933. While they remain a threatened species, the birds are faring better. A reintroduction program undertaken during the 1980s built the Michigan population of trumpeter swans to an estimated 650 individuals by 2005. Michigan DNR officials are seeking the perpetrator of Freeway’s illegal shooting. Trumpeter swans are protected under both Michigan and federal law. The violator faces a $1,000 fine plus a mandated $1,500 restitution to the state. For now Freeway is resting and recovering comfortably at the ARK, where he joins two other rescued trumpeters, Scott and Clancy. Acclimated to humans after prolonged stays at the Roscommon County rescue shelter, those

INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

two birds will likely go to zoos, according to Fruehauf. With the ARK’s current overpopulation of trumpeters, Fruehauf and her crew of volunteers have learned plenty about trumpeter swans, especially compared to the more aggressive mute swan. “I’ve absolutely fallen in love with trumpeter swans,” says Fruehauf. “They are very passive. They are so large they do not have many natural predators. Every one we’ve had has adjusted quickly to being inside and has gotten used to people.” If Freeway’s recovery proceeds at the fast clip it has followed, Fruehauf said he remains an excellent candidate for return to the wild. “The problem I have is, how can I tell if he’s ready? If I took him outside right now and put him down on the ground I think that he could probably take off and fly. The thing is, once he’s gone, he’s gone. You’ll never get him back. And I want to make sure he is all healed before we let him go,” Fruehauf said. Anyone with information about this or other natural resource violations is requested to call the DNR’s Report All Poaching Hotline at (800) 292-7800.

News from across the north

With the help of a 3-inch lift kit and 35-inch tires, four wheel enthusiast Ed Schroeder of Davison took his Jeep for a spin through the St. Helen Motorsports Area new rock challenge course. All but the basic course offer significant obstacles to users. Officials from the Great Lakes ST. HELEN – After a decadeFour Wheel Drive Association long trek over some rocky road, four wheel drive enthusiasts have who helped work to complete the project say the rock course marks finally reached the top of the grade. The rock crawl challenge at a new milestone in cooperative St. Helen Motorsports Area is now efforts between the DNRE and resource users. Specifically, they complete. The site opened to usgive high marks to Paige Perry, ers on Oct. 31 and ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for later this DNRE trails analyst who prepared the grant, and Doug Shultz of spring. Rowe Engineering, who provided Funding for the project comes from a DNRE grant. Private dona- technical design. But their appreciation doesn’t tions helped purchase additional end there. boulders for the sandy RoscomThey also credit agency ofmon County site. While most of ficials for the invitation the state those donations came from the set out, seeking input from those Roscommon County area, folks will benefit from use of the course. as far away as Grand Rapids and Detroit helped sponsor the rocks. In the end, it may be GLFWDA’s opportunity to provide meaningful In all the site offers six courses of varying challenge, ranging from input, as well as a technical expert of their own, that leads to the a flat but rugged course designed for beginning wheelers with stock course’s rocky challenge to four equipment, to the most demanding wheelers. course built of 6-foot cement drain pipes enhanced even further with the addition of rocks and boulders.

Ten year climb

St. Helen dirt packers

ST. HELEN – Trail riders in this town plan to defend their reputations as dirt-loving hard drivers. At least they are going to defend the trails they ride on. To help reach that goal they’ve formed the St. Helen Dirt Packers, a fair weather answer to the local St. Helen Snow Packers, a group whose members care for snowmobile trails all winter long. Membership is open to all. Cost for annual membership is $20 for individuals, $30 for families and $40 per business. Besides organizing events, the Dirt Packers plan to provide ORV education, promote new trail development and help maintain existing trails. For more information on the St. Helen Dirt Packers go online to www.sthelenpowersports.com and follow the link. Or call (989) 3894961.

THE GUIDE

n Tip w o T -Up USA

Photos by Houghton Lake Resorter www.HoughtonLakeResorter.com

PerchvilleUSA Photos by Penny Wojahn and Jerry Nunn sunrisepenny@yahoo.com

n Tip w o T -Up USA

Photos by Houghton Lake Resorter www.HoughtonLakeResorter.com

PerchvilleUSA Photos by Penny Wojahn and Jerry Nunn sunrisepenny@yahoo.com

Northeast Michigan Chambers of Commerce

Cheryll Ruley, director of Crawford County United Way, along with Kirk Wakefield, secretary, and Kathi Moss, allocation chair, accept a grant from Ian Faulkner, Weyerhaeuser general manager.

West Branch Weyerhaeuser gifts United Way chamber gets a GRAYLING – Looking ahead to 2011, Crawford County United Way hopes to build on the $17,500 grant it received from the Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation for the 2011 season. Local agencies can apply for a share of the funds in the spring. Last year, 18 local agencies and organizations received funding from CCUW It is so rewarding to not only be part of a fantastic Weyerhaeuser team, but to also be able to give back to our community during a time when it needs it so much, said Ian Faulkner, Weyerhaeuser general manager. This grant is our way of saying thank you for supporting us as a business in northern Michigan. One of the largest structural panel facilities in North America, Weyerhaeuser-Grayling manufactures oriented strand. We have limited resources in our community, but have been able to continue our work with help from Weyerhaeuser, explained Karen Hatley, United Way president. Their generosity continues to inspire and motivate us in our work, as do all of our many contributors. 14

complimentary update WEST BRANCH – The way folks pitch in around this Ogemaw County town you might think you were back in the days of yore. Judge by the town’s historic train depot and you might think it was 1872. That’s when the depot was built. After the work folks recently performed on the celebrated landmark the place looks as good new. While townsfolk will be most apt to enjoy the depot’s shiny new look, visitors will no doubt notice as well. As home to the West Branch Chamber of Commerce, the depot remains the first stop on arrival for many West Branch visitors to this very day. West Branch owes the updated look to Pittsburgh Paint, inmates from the Ogemaw County jail and a whole slew of area businesses, according to Andrea Clark Rose, of family-owned Morse Clark Furniture. With no money to finance the project, Rose approached the paint manufacture, requesting a donation of the needed paint. To her surprise, Pittsburgh Paints got the project off to a good start with

more than $5,000 worth of paint and primer. With the project now a go, it only made good sense that local folks come up with the rest. And they did in a big way. From sand, to shrubs, to dumpsters and shingles, materials for the project where given for free or at deep discounts by area business owners. Inmates from the county jail applied the paint and performed the other work to the tune of several thousand hours, according to Christie Blackford, chamber director. “People kept telling me we needed to paint the building,” Blackford said, noting the paint came with plenty of technical advice from Pittsburgh Paint. “They came in a told us what we had to do and how we had to do it. And it wasn’t cheap stuff, either. They gave us top of the line, premium paint.” The newly painted depot is worth a look next time you’re in West Branch. It is located on the I-75 Business Loop, next to the railroad tracks in downtown West Branch.

INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

AuGres (989) 876-6688 Gladwin County (989) 426-5451 Grayling Regional (989) 348-2921 Houghton Lake (989) 366-5644 Huron Shores (989) 724-5107 Oscoda-AuSable (989) 739-7322 Oscoda County (989) 826-3331 Rose City (989) 685-2936 Roscommon/Higgins Lake (989) 275-8760 Skidway Lake (989) 873-4150 Standish (989) 846-7867 Tawas Area (989) 362-8643 West Branch (989) 345-2821

Outside the box

“Every painting has something in the foreground and something in the background,” Fraser says. That perspective-adding frame is there somewhere. But the painting spills beyond it – outside the box. And folks don’t have to think outside the box to see that what Fraser creates is beautiful art. “I begin with wood burning first, before I paint it,” Fraser said. “Sometimes, I go back over it with the wood burner to add depth. Sometimes I just set it aside and get back to it later.” The technique adds a further dimension, and makes the bright colors leap from the wood. The use of bright colors with a touch of Not that any old piece of wood burnt wood sets this Mikado artistʼs work will do, but just about every piece apart. of wood Fraser sees falls under her By JERRY NUNN artful consideration. Tiny pieces, some an inch long, become colorMIKADO – Michaela Fraser’s ful Christmas decorations while art work is certainly worthy of larger pieces make wall hangings framing for display on any wall. and round stumps become table But how do you pedestals. frame a 6-foot-long, Sticks become three dimensional walking canes depiece of driftwood, picting lives, story or an old, forgotten and song. One, chunk of firewood? gifted to a minister Fortunately, Fraser at the church Christtakes care of the mas program, told framing herself. It is the story of Christ’s the first step she takes birth in colorful before letting her drawing. creative side take over. “I have containers full of wood,” “Nearly every piece I do, has a Fraser said, noting the wood frame of some kind on it someburner they use to heat their home. where or a ribbon running through “I go through the wood before we it; something for perspective,” burn it. I have drift wood, though Fraser said, noting the idea came to her at the suggestion of college it’s not as easy to find – 10 or 15 years ago, I could find driftwood art instructors. “They told me to all over. Back then the lake levels go outside the box. To think outside the box, so that’s what I do.” were a lot higher.”

A single work can take days or longer, depending on the artist’s mood. “If I get something down right away, I’m okay. Sometimes, it just doesn’t come and I set it aside for a while,” Fraser says. But not so with the tiny ornaments, often done in a Santa motif. “I get so sick of seeing white beards and red hats. Sometimes I wood burn them and set them aside. Then,

when I have six or so, I’ll do all the whites of their eyes, then I’ll do their teeth if they have them, then I’ll do their beards. It’s a system, a factory. Yeah, then it becomes a production line.” Most of Fraser’s designs reﬂect her Native American ancestry, with inspiration coming from traditional design. As a child growing up in the Upper Peninsula town of Chassell, just south of Houghton on the Keweenaw Peninsula, Fraser suffered from an arthritic knee that has now been replaced. As her family played their musical instruments, she took

THE GUIDE

up a pen and brush. “When I was a kid growing up, I always drew. I spent a lot of time alone,” said Fraser, a student of graphic design and color theory. And while life circumstance during early adulthood kept her from her craft, “I took it back up after the kids grew up. “Art is good therapy,” Fraser said. Fraser’s art is therapeutic to view as well, with its bright colors, graphic designs and dark, wood-burnt highlights. Her work can be found at Blue Bear Jewelry in Harrisville, and she also does commissions. “When I get something done, I pretty much have to get it out of here or set them aside, otherwise I can’t leave them alone,” Fraser said. “You know artists. I am my own worst critic.”

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INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

ment. So the flowing water finds new sediment to move, often leading to increased erosion problems downstream of the dam. Fixing those problems then, and restoring the stream, is simply done by allowing streams to reestablish those natural functions. The details of dam removal can get complicated, but the essence of every removal focuses on giving the stream the chance to heal itself. Streams, like many natural systems, are quite resilient. By slowly lowering the water, the sediment can be retained. Exposed sediments quickly revegetate from seeds found naturally in the organic matter. The stream channel redefines, developing new impoundment. Even fine organic banks and a floodplain. Flowing rally function, ultimately leading water starts to move approprimatter, which normally flows to these major impacts. downstream very easily, settles in ate amounts of sediment and the When a stream is dammed, the water is forced to slow down. By such slowly moving water. When ecosystem begins to return to its original state. that organic matter decomposes, slowing a stream down the dam Huron Pines, a communitydissolved oxygen is used up, decreases the stream’s ability to based not-for-profit organization, move sediment. So the sediment leaving aquatic wildlife with less is working in Northeast Michigan dissolved oxygen than they may “drops out” and deposits where to assess the impacts of dams and need to survive. What may have the stream enters the pond. The work hand-in-hand with private once held brook trout, will likely same phenomenon forms river landowners and partners to reend up only supporting warmer deltas where rivers enter the water species like bluegill. Same store our streams where condiocean. In oceans however, the sediment has a place to go, being goes for the insects. Mayflies and tions allow. By inventorying and prioritizing the threats to natural redistributed by waves and tides to stoneflies may be being replaced resources, Huron Pines is able form our beaches. Behind a dam, by mosquitoes and black flies. Warming of the pond water ac- to coordinate broad-scale partsediment inevitably fills in the celerates those ecological changes. nerships focused on completing pond. Dams can drastically increase the hands-on projects to further acEvery day that a dam exists, sediment fills the pond. For many water’s surface area being exposed complish their mission of conservyears it may go unnoticed. Then, to the sun, and the organic matter ing the forests, lakes and streams of Northeast Michigan. settling behind the dam is natumore often than not, a shift in Factors such as how many miles rally a very dark the ecology of of stream will be reconnected, For more information on the Small color, thus inthe pond alarms Dams Program and other projects creasing absorp- where the dam is in the broader people that of Huron Pines, please visit www. tion of the sun’s watershed, and the dam’s condisomething is huronpines.org or call (989) 344-0753. heat by the pond tion are all incorporated in project changing: the selection. and its sediquality of fishing If you own a dam or live on an ments. That warmer water then changes or more aquatic plants impoundment, and are looking for grow, making paddle sports diffi- flows over the dam, influencing help in restoring the stream, Huron cult. Some people even notice an downstream water quality as well. Pines would like the opportunity increased presence of mosquitoes Also downstream of the dam, the water is back to flowing at normal to meet with you. Contact them at and other insects. (989) 344-0753. What is happening is that more speeds. Yet, its former sediment than just sand is filling the pond or load is still stuck in the impound-

Small dams Through their Small Dams Program, the conservation-minded leaders of Huron Pines assess, classify and take inventory of Northern Michigan’s small dams. While the program will lead to best management practices of individual dams, the underlying goal is to improve and protect our state’s watersheds. By PATRICK ERTEL

Huron Pines project manager Special to The Guide

Streams, whether they are large rivers or small creeks, carry sediment as part of their natural function. The amount and size of that sediment depends on several factors, including the speed of the water, what type of sediment is available for movement, and how much water is flowing. Dams, in the simplest sense, are structures that restrict flowing water. Dams can be built of all sorts of materials and constructed by many different mechanisms, for numerous purposes. Regardless of purpose or materials, all dams leak and no dam has been built with the ability to last and function forever. Most important, the presence of dams interrupts how streams natu-

THE GUIDE

Ear, Nose &Throat Speciality Care

With novelty and gag items in addition to the gifts and mainstay fabrics, Halloween seemed a year-round theme at Pockrandtʼs Fabric and Gifts in Oscoda. Still, the storeʼs costume rental provided a popular, all-season public service. Any day that Pockrandtʼs was open, Alf could be found standing vigil on the sidewalk out front. The characterʼs presence prompted some to deem Pockrandtʼs ʻThe Alf Store.ʼ

St. Joseph Health System and Valley ENT have combined efforts to form the new St. Joseph ENT. St. Joseph ENT will provide more clinic and surgery days to increase availability and decrease wait time for appointments and treatment. The outstanding quality of care remains the same along with our physicians Richard Louden, M.D., Brian Perry, M.D. and Keith Scharf, M.D. They have a cumulative of 54 specialize in managing diseases of the ears, nose and nasal passage sinuses, larynx, oral cavity and upper pharynx. We treat and perform surgery, if recommended on both adults and children. For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 989.362.0188.

989.362.0188 • www.sjhsys.org

Standing among the 400 costumes that she and others made over the years, Karen Jeffries spoke of the bittersweet notion of retirement.

Store s closing changes a community ’s fabric

‘

years experience and are all board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology. Our ENT’s

‘

ENT

By JERRY NUNN Info Northeast editor OSCODA – Boutique, novelty shop, fabric store, costume rental – call it what you will, after more than 20 years in this lakeside town Pockrandt’s Fabrics and Gifts has closed its doors for good. Owner Karen Jeffries said it was time to retire. And with the wide range of products Pockrandt’s offered, Jeffries is used to folks calling her landmark downtown store by all sorts of different names. “Even though the name is on the side of the building, most people called it the Alf store,” said Jeffries, referring to the life-sized stuffed character popularized by the 1980s TV show of the same name. Every day that Pockrandt’s was open for business, Alf stood watch from the sidewalk out front. “He’s been there 20-some years now, so that’s how a lot of people remember us.” Nonetheless, considering the gag gifts, jokes and novelty items that Jeffries offered for sale, other folks chose names that were far less formal. “Of course a lot of kids call it the puke and fart store,” Jeffries says with a laugh. “They don’t say it to be rude or disrespectful, that’s just how they remember it. It’s because of the things we sell and the things they remember.” Pockrandt’s did offer a range of items. Walk ﬁrst through the door and you’d rightly believe that you’d entered a shop. Popular ornaINFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

ments, mementos and items of décor could always be found at Pockrandt’s. But enter further and your movement would likely set off a laughing machine (or worse) hidden away amongst items on one of the counters. “Kids love that stuff,” Jeffries said, admitting that she, too, took pleasure in her more whimsical products. “I have people come in all the time who tell me, ‘I was this big when my mother brought me in here,’” said Jeffries, holding her hand at a youngster’s head-level. “Now they’ve grown up, have kids of their own, and they’re bringing their kids in here.” From costume rental to sewing notions, to novelties and gifts, Pockrandt’s had an inventory as wide as its customer base. In fact, return customers were a constant that Pockrandt’s could always depend on, according to Tracy Barton, a nine-year employee. “We have people we see regularly. There are lots of things in here you can’t find anywhere else,” Barton said, noting not all customers lived nearby. “We get people from Alpena, West Branch, even downstate.” Chalk some of that loyalty up to Pockrandt’s reputation of stocking the hard-to-find. “Customers come in here after looking somewhere else,” Jeffries said. “People will say to me, ‘Someone told me that you would have it.’ So they came here. And we usually do.” A wide selection is not the only reason folks shop here. The door to Pockrandt’s was kept plenty busy in the weeks before the store’s Oct. 31 closing. With the approach of Halloween, much of the traffic came for Jeffries’ costumes and theatrical items. Yet many stopped by just to say goodbye, said Barton. “A lot of people in this town are going to miss Karen,” agreed

Kay Gaines of Oscoda, a quilter and frequent customer who, on this day, spent more time chatting than she did shopping. “When I’m looking for something I always know that Karen will have it.” Enter a little deeper in Pockrandt’s, past the gifts and gag items, and you would have found theater and stage makeup, the perfect accompaniment to the 400 costumes that Pockrandt’s rented. Those items were a blessing to theater groups from near and far. “It’s one of those stores you don’t see anymore,” said Scott Heinrich, an owner and instructor at Northeast Academy of Dance in Oscoda. “She has everything you could ever want. We’ve borrowed pieces and used her fabric. It made us be more creative because she always had things that we could use in our performances.” “Even if you don’t get anything it is worth going in there just for Karen’s company,” Heinrich said. “Karen is a wonderful, wonderful person.” Perhaps best known for her personality, Jeffries came by her business acumen naturally. Her mother started Pockrandt’s 60 years ago in Saginaw, on the corner of Janes and Genesee Avenues. There Evelyn Pockrandt specialized in buying personal estates, business closeouts and factory overruns. “She carried paint, fabrics, just about everything,” Jeffries said, telling about the time her mother acquired an out-of-business girdle company. “We had corsets, bras, girdles and mannequins everywhere.” When Evelyn Pockrandt moved her business to Tawas 38 years ago, she specialized in fabric. “My mother couldn’t sew,” Jeffries said. “All these women came in here and thought that she could sew, and she couldn’t. But she was a good business woman. When we moved up here she paid cash for our house.”

That business sense was handed down beyond one generation. Go clear to the back room and that is where Pockrandt’s greatest treasures, the 400-plus costumes, could be found. Back when Wurtsmith Air Force base operated in this Iosco County town, Jeffries and her daughter Kris Smith got the idea to make and rent their first costume. Before demand was met the store stocked more than 400 costumes for all seasons and the idea set the pace for what their one-time fabric shop was to become. So attached was Smith to the costume business that, most years, she traveled to Oscoda from her home in Glasgow, Kentucky, to help her mother at this busiest time of year. “But don’t think it was just at Halloween,” Smith says. “In spring you have the Easter Bunny, and at Christmas you have Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and elves and Suzy Snowflake.” Just as her mother found customer desires to change, so did Jeffries. Yet both built success by meeting customer demand. “I’ve seen a lot of changes,” Jeffries says. “Fabric has always been our mainstay, but the gifts did well. About five years ago the gifts backed off but fabric picked up as more people started quilting.” Now those changes will take place without her, without Pockrandt’s Fabric and Gifts. Now, in retirement, Jeffries will join daughter Karen for most of the year in Kentucky. She promises to return for visits. “Part of me wants to celebrate and part of me wants to go upstairs and crawl under a blanket,” Jeffries said, of her retirement that then was soon to come. “I’d like to come back and spend a month every year. It’s the people I am going to miss. I’ve made a lot of friends here.”

THE GUIDE

By SANDIE PARKER, sandiesgalley.com

Just Like Pizza Soup The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich

1 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage, mild or hot 12-14 mushrooms, sliced, or 1 (15 oz. can) drained 2 (18.3 oz.) containers Campbell’s V8 tomato herb soup 2 (24 oz.) jar Prego, tomato, basil and garlic flavor 1 c. water 1 med. sweet onion, coarsely chopped If you like pizza, and who Now let’s make a great sand1 green pepper, coarsely chopped 1 1/2 T Italian seasoning doesn’t, this soup is for you. It is wich to either go with soup or to a meal in itself. Easy, satisfying, serve with some chips and a pick- 1 tsp. ground oregano 2 T. sugar hearty and delicious, all rolled into le. You will never go back to the 1 tsp. red pepper flakes. or more one. Just toss it in the crock pot plain grilled cheese sandwich once to taste and go do something you really you taste this. The two cheeses 3/4 c. Parmesan cheese, shredded enjoy doing, without worrying melted together are truly the stars or grated 1 1/2 c. shredded Colby cheese, about dinner. Or make it on the of the show, so if you do not like divided stove for less cooking time. tomatoes or bacon, please blend Here is a little history of how these two cheeses together for In a large fry pan, brown sauthese soups come about. I think your next grilled cheese sandwich. sage and mushrooms together. most of you know you that, at our You might want to flip out the Drain and spoon into 4 qt. crock house, Sunday in the fall and win- tomatoes and add sliced apples. If pot or large soup pot. Stir in ter is football and soup day. Each you have any questions or want everything else EXCEPT the cheeses. For crock pots, cook on and every one is a new recipe that more free recipes, visit my webI tweak or start from scratch. This site at www.sandiesgalley.com and lowest setting for five hours, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cook one was definitely tweaked becontact me. I answer all emails for another 1-2 hours. For stove cause it was just missing too many promptly and love getting them. tops, simmer for two hours, add things. Have fun with it, change Until next time – stay warm, Parmesan, simmer for another up the toppings if you like but stay healthy and keep on cookin’. hour. Serve with 1/4 cup shredded cheese in each serving bowl. Fills no need to change the sauce. It is six bowls abundantly. perfect as is. 20

INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

8 slices Spaatz’s or sour dough bread 4-5 T. unsalted butter 5-6 cooked slices bacon, cut in half 1/2 c. Fontina cheese, shredded 1/2 c. mild cheddar cheese, shredded 4 thin slices of tomato Mix the two cheeses together in a small bowl. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Generously butter the top sides of each slice of bread. Melt a tablespoon of butter in pan. Swirl to coat. Lay two slices of bread, buttered side down in skillet. Put 1/8 cup of the mixed cheeses on each piece of bread, to with bacon, then tomato, then 1/8 cup more of cheeses. Place the two remaining slices of bread, buttered-side up on top. Cook, without pressing, until the bread browns and the cheese has slightly melted, about 4 minutes. Flip the sandwiches over with a spatula, and add 1 teaspoon more of butter to the pan. Cook slowly, turning down the heat so that the cheese melts but bread does not burn on the bottom, just browns nicely. Repeat with the other two sandwiches.

Make a difference with community service

How you can help How do you get involved? Volunteering comes in many forms. To begin, consider how much time you have available. Generosity is a wonderful thing, but don’t overcrowd As residents of Northeastern Michigan, we have the rare privilege your schedule. Volunteer activities should be enriching and fun, not of living in one of the most beautioverwhelming. ful locations in North America. Our Next, think about your talents and communities are richly endowed with activities you enjoy. Look for ways seasonal changes, spectacular views to try out different activities without and the most amazing people you’ll making a long term commitment. ever meet. We are a unique blend of Once you find your niche, you may families, entrepreneurs, retirees and Employees from Northland’s Oscoda branch have been ‘picking trash’ along a enjoy signing up for the long haul. sportsmen who care deeply about • Look for opportunities with two-mile-stretch of U.S. 23 every summer for the last 20 years. While the staff at family and community. national organizations. Northland pride themselves for their community involvement, the credit union’s • Contact non-profit organizaChoose to make a difference management understands that support of their employees is equally crucial in tions that focus on Michigan. through community service bringing about community improvement. • Explore community service opIf you could make your life better, portunities at work. and improve things for your children • Offer your help to a local house volunteering matters and use the op• Join a community service-orior grandchildren – would you hesiof worship, community organizaportunity as a lesson in work ethics! ented group. tate? You have the ability within your tion or performing arts group. Here are a few ideas to get started: • Offer to help an elderly neighgrasp. Reach out and take it! Commu• Become a mentor by joining • Involve young people in your bor. nity service opportunities are availBig Brothers, Big Sisters or coachcareer. • Assist with chores at your able regardless of age, physical or ing a local team. • Volunteer at your grandchild’s house of worship. financial condition. Choose to make a • Visit an elderly neighbor and school. • Organize a trash pickup. difference today. offer to help. • Offer to help out with youth • Volunteer at school. • Ask your Chamber of Comsports. merce about upcoming community • Visit residents at a nursing See a need? Fill it! In many comevents and contact the organizers. home. munities, ideas from young people • Share a love of pets by volunhave become amazing contributions Lessons for a lifetime teering at the local animal shelter. to volunteering. Get with your friends We do a great service for the next • Collect donations of goods for a and brainstorm. Use your imagination generation by teaching our children homeless or abuse shelter. to create something wonderful! and grandchildren to think beyond • Ask your kids for their suggesthemselves. There is a tremendous Northland Area Federal Credit Union tions of ways to help their comis a 13 branch credit union located in difference in the attitude and potential munity and their world. northeastern Michigan where manageof young people grounded in comment and staff are committed to volmunity service versus those who Suggestions for students focus only on themselves. Open their Community volunteers come in all unteering. In addition to the popular Northland clown troupe, the credit union Northland clowns recently entertained eyes to this great opportunity – even ages and backgrounds. As a young actively support dozens of organizations Special Olympians on a bowling outing youngsters can generate amazing person, you have unique opportunifor the betterment of our communities. ideas to better their communities! ties to help within your community. by dancing through the crowd with In 2010 alone, Northland volunteers Volunteering also offers you an addonated over 1,100 hours to the commua donation for Special Olympics and Suggestions for parents ditional advantage. It’s a good way to nities they serve. clown bears for all. Afterward, they and grandparents For more information about Northland “try out” different career fields before stopped by AuSable Valley Community How do you get kids involved? or their community involvement, please you commit to expensive college Mental Health to give bears to the Teaching by example, of course! courses. And remember – volunteer- call (800) 336-2328 or visit www.northlandcu.com. residents. Above, Vesta Woyahn couldn’t When appropriate, have the kids ing looks great on college applicaServices benefit our communities and help during volunteer events or get tions! Need some ideas to get started? wait to have her picture taken with the ourselves involved in theirs. Show them that • Get involved with Junior clowns! Achievement and the National Honor Society. photos by Northland Area Federal Credit Union by KELLY TRAINOR Northland Area Federal Credit Union Special to The Guide

THE GUIDE

Fusion Jewelry and Fashion Boutique

By SHANNON NUNN and ALLISON NUNN

From the street the screaming pink awning and swanky window displays of Fusion Jewelry and Fashion Boutique beckons you. Once inside the East Tawas store you’ll ﬁnd a lavish arrangement of dazzling jewelry, trendy purses and opulent clothing. Fusion Jewelry and Fashion Boutique, located in downtown East Tawas, has been owned operated by Sheryl and Brad DeWyse for six years. Sheryl, the front woman of Fusion, handpicks all of the merchandise from venders and fashion shows. The Fusion staff is friendly, fun and knowledgeable. Gift cards and gift wrapping is available as well as one of Fusion’s gift bag adorned with a signature handmade bow. This posh boutique has something fabulous for every fashionista.

Q: Can you tell us why you started Fusion? Sheryl: I always wanted to own a business. I worked as a nail tech and missed the merchandise so I took a leap of faith and I have no regrets. There are rough days, but I still would do it all over. Q: How did you come up with the name Fusion? 22

Sheryl: There was a nail product with that name. It embodies the two statements we want to make; fun and fashion fused together. Q: What challenges do you face as a woman business owner? Sheryl: I just had to learn to be tough because you can’t please everyone. Q: Can you describe your merchandise selection? And what are your specialty products? Sheryl: We carry an extensive selection of jewelry, clothing, nail polish, scarves, hair accessories, purses, and much more. Our wide price range allows us to carry something for everyone. No one else in the Tawas area sells Forever in My Heart lockets, Switch Flops, Chamilia jewelry and OPI nail polish. Q: Aside from your products, what else does Fusion have to offer? Sheryl: We have the “Pink Perks Program.” It is a customer reward program. For every dollar you spend you earn one point; reach 250 points and earn a $10 gift card. You can also make a wish list that is kept here to make gift buying effortless. Clients receive a 20-percent-off coupon for their birthday, it never expires. A layaway program is also available.

Fusion Jewelry & Fashion Boutique 106 W. Westover Street East Tawas (800) 952-1423 www.ShopAtFusion.com search for Fusion Jewerly on facebook

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INFONORTHEAST • JANUARY/FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

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www.northlandcu.com

MARYMAR Gourmet

Melissa: The men from the campground were complaining that they were too big to dip in their coffee mugs, so I came up with the oval shape so they can dip them. The shape was popular with them so that’s the way they are made now. Q: What seasonal and holiday store and creating her mouth-watering delicacies, Melissa devotes items do you have to offer? Melissa: I have meat and cheese about 100 hours a week. Whether platters, along with 10-pepper jam you’re looking for sweet or savory that can be easily mixed together Marmar Gourmet is the place to with cream cheese to use on pretfind it. zels and cracker for Super Bowl Q: Melissa, how did you get started in the business? Melissa: While finishing my teaching degree, I began doing farmer’s markets and quickly expanded to three 10-foot by 10foot tables. Teaching jobs were at a minimum so I focused on my baking business. I started a shop in my old location down the street, By ALLISON NUNN next to the Medicine Shoppe. and SHANNON NUNN After six years, I moved to my current location for more space. From a distance, Marmar GourQ: Can you describe your selecmet looks like the usual bake tion? shop with cakes, cookies and Melissa: Several kinds of baked pies. However, once inside you’ll goods, a wide variety of homenotice all the unique items that made jams, pasties, quiche, aprons owner Melissa McMacken has to and towels, dried fruits, soup offer in her downtown East Tawas mixes and coffee and Harney and shop. Along with the wide array Sons tea and more. of customary baked goods, you’ll Q: What are Marmar specialfind customized delights that have ties? been featured in Martha StewMelissa: Our wide variety of art’s Everyday Living magazine. jams. They are not full of sugar, Melissa offers a large assortment we use pure cane sugar and you of jams, gift baskets ranging from can taste the pieces of fruit. We $10 to $300, gift certificates, party also have homespun pies and carplatters and graduation cakes. rot cake. My pasties are another Marmar tries to only to sell prod- specialty we get many out of state ucts and use ingredients made in orders for them. Michigan. Between operating the Q: When did you start baking? Melissa: Starting out when I Marmar Gourmet was a young kid I used to go to 131 Newman Street my Grandma’s to do Christmas East Tawas time baking. (989) 362-5380 Q: We’ve noticed your cookies www.marmargourmet.com have a unique shape, can you tell Search for Marmar Gourmet us about it? on facebook. THE GUIDE

Sunday. Around Valentine’s Day I sell heart-shaped cakes, raspberry chamberet chocolate cake and heart cookies. For St. Patrick’s Day I have checker board cake, hot cross buns and Irish soda bread. And for Easter a lamb shaped cake and decorated cookies. Note: When ordering seasonal items and gift baskets advanced ordering is recommended. Please place orders for graduation cakes two weeks prior to the occasion.

Selected Amish Merchants From Oscoda County Chocolate Specialty Hand Dipped • Homemade

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Northstar Storage Barns Country Feed Supply Country Cedar Crafts Shady Lane Footwear and Fabrics

Highland Rail Co. 680 E. Kittle Rd. • Mio, MI 48647

(989) 848-8000

Kneeland Rd. Gerber Rd.

Bills Rd. Kittle Rd.

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Co Hwy 608 / W. Miller Rd.

N. Galbraith Rd.

Phone: 989-848-2172 • 600 W. Miller Rd., • Mio, MI 48647

Split Rail Fencing

Pine Grove Woodworking Granny’s Chocolates Bylers Custom Cabinets Highland Rail

Granny’s Chocolates

Highland Rail Wholesale and Retail

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