The Guide, July 2014

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Personal service is always best

By Jerry Nunn editor Scott Nunn’s got the right idea.

You’ll probably never find him using a fast-food drive-thru, punching numbers in an ATM at the bank, or standing in line at the grocer’s selfcheckout.

“Too impersonal,” Scott says.

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“Besides, I don’t think it’s any faster.”

That last part I doubt.

You would too if you ever ran into Scott at the bank or the grocery store.

He tends to socialize with just about everyone there, but I guess that pretty much makes his first point though.

If he used those less personal services, Scott wouldn’t know nearly as many clerks, cashiers or servers.

Take our bank for example, or credit union, actually.

Gallivanting across the entire Northeast corner of the state, we bank regularly at four branches of Northland Area Federal Credit Union and use four others often. At all those branches, Scott knows many, if not most, of the tellers by name. Chances are good, if it’s a busy time of day, he’ll know a customer or two as well.

Scott says those meaningful interactions often make his day, yet those moments wouldn’t be possible if he used the faceless services that the institution offered.

“I have a lot friends who I’ve met across a counter, either at a

convenience store, the hardware, or somewhere else where I was buy something,” Scott says.

There’s more.

Scott banks at three local branches of a national bank as well, using the same one-on-one theory of service he employs elsewhere. That the personal approach pays dividends at this bank is without question.

When Scott and moved his family from Rose City to Alger last year, his change in location coincided with a change in ownership of that national bank and the paperwork he filed to change his address crossed in the mail with his new bankcards.

Unfortunately, after his bank cards were returned to a far-off processing center, the bank wrongly sensed shenanigans and put Scott’s accounts on hold. Scott didn’t find out until three weeks had passed, when he tried to purchase fuel late one night using his old card.

After a couple of minutes of runaround over the phone with the bank the next day, Scott went straight to the

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local branch manager.

“If I hadn’t taken the time to get to know Tom, who knows how long I’d have been without those accounts,” Scott says. “Ultimately, that bank would have lost my business and I’d have gone through the hassles of opening a new account somewhere else.”

The friendly approach paid off while Scott was shopping late one evening, shortly after the store changed its floor plan. Unable to find a product, Scott approached the associates. Their unfamiliarity equaled Scott’s.

Then a fellow shopper approached, an off-duty manager of the store who Scott was friends with.

“She was there late, shopping,” Scott says. “She didn’t have to stop what she was doing and come help me. But she did. I think it was because I always take the time to say hello, always go through her line, whenever she is working.

“In today’s fast-food, drive-thru world, personal service really stands out,” Scott says. “It’s reminiscent to me of the idealistic way small town life that television once portrayed.”

July 2014 Volume V, Issue 4 Published by: Info Northeast

Weathered biker Tips for Marathon spectators Mystery of the Newberry Stone The Road Home Five Lake Huron lighthouses Sturgeon on loan Thunder Bay Maritime Festival Industrial Art Institute Capitalizing a resource Tragedy to tribute Camp Kitigin Northeast Michigan recreation Marianne’s hamburger challenge: Rascal Jakk’s

Editor: Jerry Nunn (989) 780-0900 jnunn@infonortheast.com

Advertising manager and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 snunn@infonortheast.com

Contributing writers: Marianne Kuzimski, Dennis Mansfield, Daniel Moffatt, Jerry Nunn, Claire Wood Contributing photographers: Ken DeMar, Tim Engelhardt, Dave Kunze, Marianne Kuzimski, Dennis Mansfield, Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn

Ken DeMar of National City took this issue’s cover photo while kayaking on the Au Sable River. A long time photo bug who once shot on film, DeMar’s love of Northeast Michigan prompted him to retire here. To contact DeMar call (989) 469-4490 or email fototkr1784@gmail.com

The Guide is published 8 times annually. Distributed through all M-DOT Welcome Centers, Chambers of Commerce and over 300 fine businesses across Northeast Michigan. Covering the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon and the City of St. Ignace

The Guide • July 2014

June 27:

Graham Parsons & The Go Rounds, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Pavilion on Court in downtown Gaylord, featuring soul, baroque folk, art rock, country and classic rock.

Info: (989) 732-4060 Rockin’ Iggy Sock Hop, 6 to 8 p.m. at Fort de Buade Museum in St. Ignace, in conjuction with the Carlos Bermudez Exhibit featuring mixed medium vintage car paintings, 1950s dress encouraged, light refreshments; no charge. Info: (906) 643-6627 Down on the Farm, a Fabulous Friday celebration in downtown West Branch. Info: (989) 345-5226 or www.

WestBranchEvents.com Habitat for Humanity Garage Sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at ARA Site, Lincoln, a huge garage sale and silent auction, donations of all gently used items except clothing accepted at the ARA site on June 21, 23, 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Info: (810) 488-1652 ****** 2014 Frederic Music Festival, 3 to 11 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sat. at Frederic Township Community Center, Frederic, with bands all day, drawings for prizes, and activities for kids; free.

Info: (517) 294-5811 Welcome Home Weekend, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, a WWII Encampment and re-enactment. Info: (989) 739-7555 Northeast Regional Farm Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday through

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August at Gateway Park in Tawas Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.GetItFresh.org Soles for Cardio 5k Walk/Run, 8 a.m. at Tolfree Trails at West branch Regional Medical Center, on M-30 in West Branch; cost is $30 for adults, $20 for 6 to 15 years and under 5 are $5, or family of four $85.

Info: (989) 343-3700 or www.wbrmc.com Garden Tractor Pulls, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wellington Farm in Grayling, a 60 acre Depression-era working farm; cost is $7.50 for adults,$5.50 for students, military and seniors. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.

WellingtonFarmPark.org 5th Annual Long Lake Lights Festival at Long Lake Park in Alpena, with the South Beach triathlon, craft show, volleyball tournament, petting zoo, stilt walker, inflatable park, live music and more; cost is $1 and includes parking, shuttle service, live entertainment and firework show. Info: (989) 595-3540 or www.

LongLakeLightsFestival.com Wolverine Wildcat 5k and 1 mile Fun Run, 8 a.m. at Children’s Park in downtown Wolverine, award to top three finishers in each age group, t-shirts for the first 50 registered; $25 adults and $10 for kids under 18. Info: (231) 238-8930 3rd Annual Art in the Garden Festival, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Demonstration Garden off Livingston Blvd. in Gaylord, with live music, art displays, free outdoor workshops for kids and adults, silent auction and art sale. Info: (877) 982-7677 or www.CrossroadsIndustries.com 35th Annual Besser Museum Log Cabin Day, 12 to 4 p.m. at Besser

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Museum for Northeast Michigan, Alpena, with strawberry sundae sale, tours through historic out buildings, old fashion games and more; cost is $3 for adults, $2 for children, seniors and students. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.

BesserMuseum.org Monster Truck Throwdown, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Kewadin Casino in St. Ignace, gates open at 5 p.m.; tickets cost $18.50 for adults, $5 for 12 and under. Info: (906) 635-7732 A Tribute to Rod Stewart, a True North Radio Summer Concert, 6 to 9 p.m. at Bay View Park Fine Arts Bandshell in Alpena, a world-class entertainer with a voice and appearance similar to Rod Stewart, bring lawn chairs or a blanket; free event. Info: (989) 354-4611 or www.TrueNorthRadioNetwork. com 36th Annual Heritage Art Show and Sale, through July 19 at 4th Street Gift and Gallery, West Branch, all Michigan artists show and sale, artists wanted, sponsored by the West Branch Creative Arts Association. Info: (989) 836-2932 The Moxie Strings, 7 p.m. at Demonstration Garden off Livingston Blvd. in Gaylord, fiddler and cellist performing bluegrass, Celtic, Canadian, rock and jazz, tickets can be purchased at door or in advance in downtown Gaylord, six tickets for $20 if purchased in advance at Seams Like New; $5 per person at the door, 15-and-under free. Info: (877) 982-7677 or www.CrossroadsIndustries. com Michigan Traditional Bowhunters Jamboree, at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling,

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

with a 24 Target 3-D course, canoe float shoot, traditional trading blanket, kids shooting area, Sunday Worship Service, free primitive camping, special long distance short and aerial disk shoot; cost is $25 members or $40 per family, nonmember is $35 and $50. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.MichiganTraditionalBow.com Detroit Lions Youth Football Camp, 8:30 a.m. to noon at Cheboygan High School in Cheboygan, open to boys and girls ages 4 to 18, non-contact, designed to improve beginning, intermediate, or advanced level skills, camps and mini-camps with fundamental instruction on all positions; cost is $95. Info: (313) 2622248 Dairy Days, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wellington Farm in Grayling, longest running special event in history of Wellington Farm, watch as cream is churned into butter and milk, eggs are turned into custards and ice cream, and skim milk is turned into cottage cheese, guided tours start at 10 a.m.; cost is $7.50 adults, $5.50 for students, military and seniors. Info: (989) 3485187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Mackinaw City Premier Arts and Craft Show, at Conkling Heritage Park, featuring artists from around the country, exhibiting paintings, woodwork, hand-crafted jewelry, handdesigned clothing and much more. Info: (800) 750-0160 or www.MackinawCity.com

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Log Cabin Day, 1 to 4 p.m. at Bailey School on the grounds of Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, Harrisville, learn how students from the area spent their school days with this historical exhibit. Info: (989) 736-3151 “Cruise In”, 2 to 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant in Gaylord, every Sunday through September 21, restaurant dining discounts for all cruisers, register car to be eligible for on site drawings. Info: (989) 7324010 The Science of Spinning, 1:30 at the Harrisville Branch of Alcona County Library, featuring the experiments and demonstrations of Zeemo. Info: (989)724-6796

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Kid’s Day!, 1 p.m. at Lumberman’s Monument, learn how firefighters do their jobs and about their equipment, with face painting with Razmatattz and maybe even a visit from Smokey Bear. Info: (989) 362-8961 Wine and Beer Tasting, 5 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday through Aug. 26 at The Pavilion in St. Ignace, featuring Michigan, domestic and international wine and beer, hors d’oeuvres and live music,; cost is $7 for 6 tastings and hors d’oeuvres. Info: (906) 6438717 or www.StIgnace.com Historic Walking Tour, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Museum of Ojibwa Culture in St. Ignace, guided walking tours every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday until August 30; no charge, wear comfortable shoes. Info: (906) 643-6076 or www.MuseumOfOjibwaCulture.net

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Gaylord’s Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wed, and Sat. through October, under the pavilion in downtown Gaylord, with flowers, fruit, veggies, baked goods and much more. Info: (989) 732-4060 Locals on the Bay, 7 to 8 p.m. every Wed. through Aug. at St. Ignace Public Marina, musical entertainment provided by area residents. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.

StIgnace.com Fiddlers Restrung, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Public Library, energized high school students with music and dancing; free event. Info: (231) 627-2381 or www.

CheboyganLibrary.org Culpepper and Merriweather Circus, 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Oscoda County Fair Grounds; advanced ticket sale $10 adults, $6 for ages 2-12, or $13 and $7 at the gate. Info: (989) 826-3331 Mayhem at Michilimackinac, 7 to 10 p.m. every Wed. through Aug. 13 at Colonial Michilimackinac , true tales of wild brawls, attempted murder, rum smuggling and a trumped up court martial will come alive as costumed interpreters reenact history; cost is $8 for adults, $4 for children 5-17. Info: (231) 436-4100 or www.MackinacParks.com Rock the Park, 7 p.m. to midnight at Calhoun Park in Beaverton, featuring Jedi Mind Trip, 21 and up only, beer tent and food vendor on site, campsites available, no outside food, drinks or pets, lawn chairs and blankets welcome; $5 per person. Info: (989) 600-7046 Cheboygan Summer Concert Series, 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday at Festival Square in downtown Cheboygan, featuring a

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different variety of music each week; free event.

Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.Cheboygan.com Bayside Live!, 7 to 8 p.m. every Thurs. through Aug. 28 at the St. Ignace Public Marina, bring your lawn chair or sit on the bleachers and listen to great music, every week is something different from rock to jazz to country. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.StIgnace. com Culpepper and Merriweather Circus, 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., at Harrisville Township Recreation Area; advanced ticket sale $10 adults, $6 for children ages 2-12, at the gate $13 and $7. Info: (989) 724-8169 Music in the Park featuring American Opera, 8 to 9 p.m. at Mackinac Island State Park, enjoy great live folk, rock, country and blues, bring blanket or lawn chair; free. Info: (906) 984-4124 or www.

MackinacArtsCouncil.org July 4th Weekend Sidewalk Sales, at Tanger Outlet in West Branch, Fourth of July sidewalk sales at 25 factory outlet stores. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com Children’s Bouncy Playground, 4 to 9 p.m. Thurs., 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Fri., and noon to 5 p.m. Sun. at Harbor Park in East Tawas, watch kids bounce high and squeal with delight; $10 for weekend or $5 daily. Info: (989) 362-8643

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Smile Through The Miles 5k/10k run/walk, 8:30 a.m. at Louis Groen Nature Preserve in Johannesburg, water

Seasonal Hours 989-748-4050

Ask About Teen Quests

Time for Adventure

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The Guide • July 2014

stations throughout the course and post race nutrition provided, prizes for first place in 12 age groups for male and female; pre-register $20, day of $25. Info: (989) 858-1855 or www.

SmileThroughTheMiles.com DirtPackers Hot Dog Ride, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. across from Richfield Township Park, in St. Helen, St. Helen Dirt Packers are inviting community to come ride with them while enjoying hotdogs, water and chips, two choices of riding, RSVP by June 30; donations appreciated. Info: (989) 389-4961 or www.

DirtPackers.org ****** Firecracker 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, 10:45 a.m. at First Merit Bank in downtown Grayling, flat one mile road race, start and finish at First Merit Bank, registration from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., t-shirts to first 100 entrants and participation ribbons to first 150 finishers; $15 per person. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHills.org Classy Chassis, 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown West Branch, part of Fabulous Fridays weekly celebration running through August. Info: (989) 345-5226 or www.

WestBranchEvents.com 14th Thunder Bay Maritime Festival, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena, hosted by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, featuring tall ships tours, research and fishing boat tours, with enjoy live music, kids games and crafts, taste local whitefish, explore the shipwreck century exhibits and more; free event. Info: (989) 356-8805 ex. 38 or www.ThunderBay. noaa.gov ******

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

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An American Picnic, 6:30 to 7 p.m. at Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, enjoy bbq baby ribs, chicken breast, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob and salads while picnicking on red and white checkered table clothes spread on the lawn; cost in advance is $49 for adults and $26 ages 5-17, after 6 p.m. on the 4th tickets are $61 and $33. Info: (231) 436-4100 or www.MackinacParks.com Jersey, a True North Radio Network presentation, 7 to 10 p.m. at Bay View Park Fine Arts Bandshell in Alpena, a 7-piece Bruce Springsteen tribute band, bring lawn chairs or blanket to sit on; free event. Info: (989) 356-4611 or www.TrueNorthRadioNetwork. com Mill River Days, at Brush Creek Mill in Hillman, activities running throughout the weekend including arts and crafts show, concessions and more. Info: (989) 742-2527 or www.BrushCreekMill.com 44th Annual Dancing Hippo Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new location on the lawn at Onaway Court House, Onaway, a juried arts and craft show. Info: (989) 306-1426 ****** Orvis Free Fly Fishing Event, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Gates AuSable Lodge in Grayling, learn casting, stream theory, and knots, no wading or waders required, bring appropriate clothing, drinks, snacks, bug spray, sunglasses are recommended; free event. Info: (989) 348-8462 or www.GatesLodge.com

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******* Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in downtown West Branch, with fruit, veggies, crafts, hand made products and more, new vendors welcome but call ahead. Info: (989) 345-0500 Hospice of Helping Hands Duck Race, noon at Irons Park in West Branch, hundreds of plastic ducks will be dropped into river, cash prizes to first three ducks to cross the line, tickets sold until day of race, all proceeds to Hospice of Helping Hands; tickets are $2 each or 3 for $5. Info: (989) 343-3700 or www.

HospiceOfHelpingHands.com ******* Sticky Buns Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wellington Farm in Grayling, a tradition at Wellington Farm started to give recognition to baking skills generally practiced during Great Depression; cost is $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for children, military or seniors. Info: (989) 3485187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org 28th Annual Sugar Springs Craft Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sugar Springs, Gladwin, with around 100 vendors; $25 for space. Info: (989) 426-4111 Humane Society Hot Dog Sale, 11 a.m. at Brian’s Fruit Market, West Branch, running until all hot dogs are sold. Info: (989) 343-7387 Family Fun Day, noon to 5 p.m., at Lakeside Park, Rogers City, with fun for the whole family, followed by Petoskey Steel Drum Band performing to 8:30 p.m.; free. Info: (989) 734-2535 Classic Cruise Night at Thunder Bay Resort, 4-8 p.m. at Thunder Bay Resort, Hillman, meet at the resort; no cost to

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participants. Held in conjunction with Sunday’s Wheels Car Club Car Show in downtown Hillman. Info: (989) 742-3651 ******* Wet Felting Workshop, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Art in the Loft in Alpena, learn basics of traditional wet felting with wool roving in this two day workshop, all supplies included, ages 11 and older welcome; $50 per person. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.

ArtInTheLoft.org Wheels Car Club Car Show, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in downtown Hillman, with dash plaques to first 100 vehicles, more than 40 classes with 1st and 2nd place trophies in each, as well as special trophies, held rain or shine, three toolboxes and many tools to be given away to participants; pre-register for $15, $20 day of, swap meet vendor fee is $5. Info: (989) 742-3651 Movies by the Bay, 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at American Legion Park in St. Ignace, free movies every Sun. through Aug. 31, all movies are PG-rated, refreshments and popcorn available. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.StIgnace.com Summerfest Design Competition Deadline, in Indian River, all artists welcome, acrylic, oil, watercolor, ink and pencil sketches accepted, $500 juried award, people’s choice award, and under 18 award, theme is “Pure Waters, Pure Trails, Pure North”, 11 inch by 14 inch or smaller, limit three pieces; cost is $10 per piece. Info: (231) 238-9325 Scratch-Create Your Own Online Game, 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. at University Center in Gaylord, open to students entering 4-6 grade, learn

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programming language and an online community to program and share interactive media such as stories, games, and animation; cost is $80. Info: (800) 705-3031 or www.

UCGaylord.org Human Nature Connection, Wed. evenings at University Center in Gaylord, a five week course featuring speakers from Huron Pines and Michigan DNR, with Sat. morning excursions into area woodlands and rivers, limited to the first 20 registered; $80. Info: (989) 448-2293 ext. 26 or www.

HuronPines.org ******** 2014 Summer Concert Series, 7-8:30 p.m. every other Wednesday at the Gazebo in Roscommon, with a new variety of music every week. Info: (989) 275 -8760 or www.hlrcc.com Wings of Wonder Wild Raptor Seminar, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Public Library, educational program on wild raptors, with an up-close look at a peregrine falcon, a great horned owl and more. Info: (231) 627-2381 or www.CheboyganLibrary.org Seth and Logan, 7:30 to 9 p.m. on Lake Street in Roscommon, local gig with unique arrangements and broad range of music styles. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.

VisitHoughtonLake.com Ogemaw Hills Bike Week, at Ogemaw County Fairgrounds, one of Michigan’s premiere motorcycle rallies with camping,concerts, contests and competitions, vintage bike exhibit, torch fire performer, judged bike show, Ives Brothers stunt show, vendors, and much more. Info: (989) 896-6429 or www.

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30 Years of Michigan’s Largest Motorcycle Rally Ogemaw County Fairgrounds West Branch, MI ogemawhillsbikeweek.com TORCH Fire Performer as seen on Full Throttle Saloon @ TRUTV

WEDNESDAY, JULY 9TH, 2014 @OGEMAW COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS BERT CUMMINGS MEMORIAL SUNDAY, JULY 13TH, 2014 @BUNTING SAND & GRAVEL PRO FLAT TRACK RACE

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OgemawHillsBikeWeek.com Cheboygan Jaycees Kids’ Day, 2 to 6 p.m. at Washington Park in Cheboygan, with face painting, games, races, bike decorating, balloon animals, inflatable playgrounds, dunk tank and refreshments, kids may decorate their pets, bicycle, wagons, or other non-motorized form of transportation with their own décor or those supplied by the “Creation Station” and participate July 11 at 6 p.m. in the Waterways Parade; free. Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.Cheboygan.com ***** MacLaren Brennan, 7 p.m. at Irons Park in West Branch, featuring country, pop and rock, bring lawn chair or blanket. Info: (989) 345-0500 Putnam Fine Arts Camp, 12:307:30 p.m. at former Hale High School, a six week class held Thurs. through Aug. 14, for grades 5-12, featuring classes in art, singing or acting; one class is $50 or all three for $100.

Info: turlandn@gmail.com AVTT Traveling Vietnam Wall, viewable 24 hours a day at Skinner Park, Houghton Lake, with an opening ceremony at 1 p.m. Thursday and closing ceremony 1 p.m. on Sunday. Info: (989) 422-4166 or www.RoscommonTownship.com 64th Annual Bluegill Festival, in St. Helen, with Schmidt Amusements, horse shoe tournament, live entertainment, beverage tent, talent show, parade, Saturday Kid’s Day, and more. Info: (989) 389-7030 or www.BluegillFestival.com ******* Corkscrews and Canvas, 6 to 8 p.m. at Art in the Loft, Alpena, paint

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and laugh with friends while enjoying a glass of good wine or your favorite micro-brew, step by step direction in creation of your very own painted masterpiece, for all skill levels, supplies and first drink included, cash bar available; $35 per person. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.

ArtInTheLoft.org Dragon Wagon, 6 to 9 p.m. at pavilion on Court St. in downtown Gaylord, high energy mix of bluegrass, rock and folk. Info: (989) 732-4060 Summer Concert Series: Saline Fiddlers, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lakeside Park Bandshell in Roger’s City. Info: (800) 3948310 Friday Night at the Museums, 7 to 9 p.m. at Museum of Ojibwa Culture in St. Ignace, continuing Fridays through August, native drumming, singing, dancing and historic guided walking tour. Info: (906) 6438717 or www.MuseumOfOjibwaCulture.net Weekend Fly Fishing School, 8 a.m. Friday until 5 p.m. on Sunday at Gates Ausable Lodge in Grayling, more than 12 hours of instruction, two breakfasts, lunch on Saturday and two nights of lodging; cost is $365 per person or $690 for two people. Info: (989) 348-8462 or www.

GatesLodge.com********* 46th Annual Cheboygan Area Arts Festival, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Festival Square in Cheboygan, wide variety of fine arts include jewelry, fabric art, furniture, water color and oil paintings, sculptures, glass, photography and pottery, singer Jack Barber and more. Info: (231) 627-5432 or www.

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2014 World Championship Wanigan Race, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cheboygan River in Cheboygan, teams up to six from all over compete with their own versions of a “Wanigan”, from Highway 33 Bridge to Lincoln Street Bridge the teams paddle for glory while cooking chili and keeping it at a boil, prizes for top three in best time, along with other awards; $175 per team. Info: (989) 854-0846 or www.cheboyganjaycees.org Tawas City Library Friends’ Gently Read Booksale, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Gateway Park in Tawas City, at Northeast Michigan Regional Farm Market. Info: (989) 362-3531 8th Annual Round Island Lighthouse Open House, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Round Island Lighthouse in Straits of Mackinaw, free lighthouse tours weather permitting, transportation by private fare, ages 8 and up welcome to climb to the top, closed toed shoes required. Info: (219) 878-3481 or www.RoundIslandLightMichigan.com Gladwin’s Fun Day Retro Roll In, in Gladwin, with an arts and crafts fair, sidewalk sales, antique tractor show, bed races, historical village tours, candy drop and flight demo at Gladwin RC Air Field, “Into the Woods” theater performance, and antique and classic cars at River Walk Place, live music and more. Info: (989) 246-9140 or www.

RiverWalkPlace.net Retro Roll In Classic Car Show, at Gladwin Riverwalk Place, cars, trucks, and bikes of any year, type or condition welcome, first 100 vehicles receive goody bag & dash magnets, VIP passes, coupons and more,

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

prizes in various categories, music by The Sea Cruisers starts at 4 p.m.; $15 to register by June 30 or $20 after. Info: (989) 246-9140 or www.

RiverWalkPlace.net Model A and Model T Car Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Standish Depot in Standish, open to only original and restored cars and trucks 1931 or older, lunch and ice cream social to pre-registered vehicles, period dress encouraged; $5 registration fee. Info: (989) 7183021 or www.US23HeritageRoute.org Cheboygan Waterways Open Water Challenge, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mackinaw Mill Creek campground, join other surf, ski and sea kayak enthusiasts for the first annual 13.5 mile race, taking place in Lake Huron’s Straits of Mackinaw, participants must attend the course and safety briefing, awards will be given to top three finishers in each division; entry is $35. Info: (231) 420-1148 or www.WaterwaysFestival.com Blake Elliot and the Robinson Affair, 4 p.m. at Demonstration Garden off Livingston Blvd. in downtown Gaylord, folk and blues; tickets cost six $20 in advance at Seams Like New in downtown Gaylord. . Info: (877) 982-7677 or www.

CrossroadsIndustries.com Wood Carving and Talk with Chris Wozniak, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Thunder Bay Arts Council and Gallery in Alpena, watch a wood carving demonstration and talk about Chris’s art work. Info: (989) 356-6678 or

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www.AlpenATBArts.org Kiwanis 8th Annual Run by the Bay, in Tawas, registration at 7 a.m., race at 9 a.m., 5k walk or run, starting 2nd block of Newman Street; $25 before July 11, $30 day of. Info: (989) 362-4412 Salt City Dixieland Band Concert, 6 to 8 p.m., at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, Michigan native band performing jazz music; cost is $12.50. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org 1950s Sock Hop Cruise, 6:30 p.m. at Shepler’s Main Dock in St. Ignace, cocktail hour, dinner, dancing, live and silent auction, cruise leaving around 9 p.m.; $50 per person. Info: (906) 643-6627 Sensational Saturday, 7 to 10 p.m. in downtown St. Ignace, special weekend offerings, continuing through August.

Info: (906) 643-8717 Tawas Bay Summer Fest, with events throughout East Tawas including lighthouse tours, street dance, car cruise and show, pet and bike parade and Dawn Patrol Fly-in and Breakfast at Iosco Airport; $10 fee to enter car show Info: (989) 362-8643 19th Annual Antique and Collectibles Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at Harrisville Harbor in Harrisville, antiques, collectibles and furniture. Info: (989) 724-5513 Rendezvous at 40 Mile Point, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Presque Isle County’s Lighthouse Park, experience 18th and 19th century dress and

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activities including tomahawk throwing, adobe oven, campfire cooking, fire starting, spinning and weaving, and children’s activities; free admission. Info: (989) 734-4587 or www.40MilePointLighthouse.org******** 3rd Annual Inland Waterways Wooden Boat Show, noon to 3 p.m. at Pier M-33 on the Cheboygan Boat Slips, small scale boat show with people’s choice competition; $10 to register, open to first 30.

Info: (231) 627-5421 or www.Cheboygan.com Live Art at the Harbor, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Harbor in Harrisville, with tie dying, nature printmaking, alcohol printmaking for ages 15 and up, oil rouging, judged art battle from 2 to 5 p.m., bring your own supplies, live music; $30 entry fee for art battle. Info: (989) 728-5411 or www.

LiveArtAtTheHarbor.com Indian River Summerfest 2014, with six days of family fun including wine tasting, art expo, fireman’s waterball competition, ice cream festival, sumo wrestling, lobsterfest and pig roast, lakeside activities, craft show, car show, battle of the bands and much more. Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com Seedums Garden Club: Citywide Garden Walk, 1 to 6 p.m. in the City of Cheboygan, with five gardens on the tour, with refreshments and raffles; $10 in advance or $15 day of. Info: (231) 625-8386 or www.

Cheboygan.com Concrete Bird Bath Class, 6 to 7 p.m. at Art in the Loft in Alpena, two part class, using concrete and large leaf mold a bird bath; $15 per person. Info:

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(989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org 50th Anniversary Alpenfest, in Gaylord, with Skerbeck Carnival, a Queen’s Pageant, walking parade, Alpine Country breakfast, ice cream social, yodeling contest and much more. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.GaylordAlpenFest.com “The Terrible Misgivings of Dr. Frankenmuth”, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Public Library, a high energy interactive presentation by Acting Up Theatre; free. Info: (231) 627-2381 or www.

CheboyganLibrary.org Let’s Take a Walk Through the Garden, 1 to 7 p.m. in Otsego County Area, hosted by the Edelweiss Garden Club and touring five gardens each with different colors and settings; $8 per ticket starting June 26 at Family Fare, Saturn Books and Gaylord Area Council for the Arts, 16-and-younger free. Info: (989) 732-7891 or www.GaylordChamber.com Roscommon Steel Drum Bands, 7 to 10 p.m. at Trestle Park in Prudenville, bring blankets or lawn chairs. Info: (989)366-5644 Summer Concert Series: Jill Jack, 7 p.m. at Irons Park in West Branch, ethnic and folk, bring lawn chair or blanket.

Info: (989) 345-0500 Mackinaw Mustang Stampede, centered at in Conkling Heritage Show in Mackinaw City, celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Ford Mustang with events including some top music acts playing music from the 60s and 70s, family fun, food, drink, child activities. Info: (231) 4365664 or www.MackinawCity.com ********

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Pioneer Power Antique Tractor and Gas Engine, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on M-55 east of West Branch, antique tractor show and swap, with demonstrations, flea market, music, auction, pedal pulls for kids, Saturday is kid’s day. Info: (989) 345-3815**** All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner and Bake Sale, 4 to 7 p.m. at American Legion Post 65 in Alpena, spaghetti, salad, homemade bread, garlic toast, dessert and beverage, sponsored by Under His Wings Christian Fellowship; $7 per person or $16 per family. Info: (989) 727-3271 Summer Concert Series: Little Band of Alpena, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lakeside Park Bandshell in Rogers City. Info: (800) 394-8310 or www.RogersCity.com Let’s All Go to the Movies!, 7:30 p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, two night only event, journey through time in film, filled with songs, monologues, and scenes, enjoyable for all ages; $15 for adults, $13 for active military, $8 for 18-and-yonger. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com 40th Annual Michigan Brown Trout Festival, in Alpena, with events for all including daily band with dance floor, Jimmy Buffett Party, fish fry, Texas hold’em tournament, 50s night with Elvis, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Roy Orbison, family day featuring emergency response vehicles, crafts, kids can work on a mural for Besser Museum, teen dance on Monday and Thursday with prizes, euchre tournament and much more. Info: (989) 590-2480 or (989) 590-

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2479******** Guest Chef Presentation, 9 a.m. to noon behind City Hall in Alpena, Chef Eric Peterson will be at the Alpena Farmer’s Market to teach how to prepare seasonal produce in a healthy way. Info: (989) 354-4181 or online at AlpenaFarmersMarket.org Beaver, Beer and Banjo, 6 to 9 p.m. at Riverside Tavern in Lovells, a logging-era tradition returns with delicious beaver stew, lots of beer and Barry VanGuilder performing on banjo, with 50/50 raffles, silent auction; donations accepted. Info: (989) 3483084 ******* Campeau’s Company of Detroit Militia Encampment, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City, wander among the encampment outside the fort to meet costumed re-enactors of the early Revolutionary War period demonstrating militia musket drills, camp life, and crafts; no additional admission charge for this event. Info: (231) 436-4100 or www.MackinacParks.com Family Day at the Michigan Brown Trout Festival in Alpena, view and tour emergency response vehicles, crafts, decorate cookies, kiddie classic fishing tournament for ages 14 and under with a picture and trophy for those who catch fish, work on mural for Besser Museum, and more; free. Info: (989) 590-2480******* 38th Annual Art on the Bay, at Bay View Park in Alpena, a juried show with oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, pottery, handcrafted jewelry, clothing for dolls, children and adults,

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needle art, wall hangings, quilting and handknit items, variety of food will be available; free to public. Info: (989) 356-6678 or www.

AlpenATBArts.org Thunder-Con 2014, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alpena Mall, Jedi Laser Sword academy for 4-10 years old, face painting, Star Wars Museum, costume and event photography, a werewolf game event requiring no equipment or experience, Magic the Gathering Tournament, free event. Info: (989) 354-4354 Wood Shaving Days, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, Grayling, visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of historic steampowered sawmill cutting logs into pine boards, listen to traditional music and enjoy the art of wood carving, wood burning, woodcrafters, blacksmiths, weavers and wool spinners; event is free, Recreational Passport required. Info: (989) 348-2537 AuSable River Festival, in Grayling, with canoe races galore, entertainment, kids events, trials for the AuSable River Canoe Marathon, art and garden walk, arts and crafts, classic car show and more.

Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.GraylingChamber. com 7th Annual Kayak and Bike Biathlon, 9 to 11 a.m. at DeVoe Public Beach in Indian River, limited to first 100 people, two miles of kayaking on scenic Inland Waterway and eleven miles of cycling on North Central State Trail, up to $1000 in prizes, free t-shirts and refreshments; $50 by July 8 or $60 after. Info: (231) 238-4492

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Iosco County Fair, in Hale, an agricultural fair with animal exhibits, Schmidt Amusements, old time skills demonstrations, grandstand events, entertainment, Schmidt Amusement midway rides, lumberjack show, and much more; $16 wristband. Info: www.IoscoCountyFair.com 67th Annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon, an event of the summer across four counties from Grayling to Oscoda down the AuSable River and overnight, starts at 9 p.m. in Grayling and ends around 11 a.m. in Oscoda, be prepared for all kinds of weather, bugs, traffic and thousands of other fans. Info: www.

AuSableCanoeMarathon.org Animals Made in Michigan Seminar, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Public Library, unique program featuring live goats, chickens, doves, geese and more, hands on experience with animals. Info: (231) 627-2381 Disney’s High School Musical, 7:30 p.m.

Wed.- Sat., 2 p.m. Sunday matinee, a loveable story with easy to relate to characters, and toe tapping tunes enjoyable for children and adults; $15 for adults, $13 for active military and $8 for 18-and-younger. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.

ThunderBayTheatre.com Summer Concert Series: The Kartes Kountry Krew, 7 p.m. at Irons Park in West Branch, country music, bring lawn chair or blanket. Info: (989) 345-0500 Music in the Park featuring Hawks and Owls, 8 to 9 p.m. in Marquette Park on Mackinac Island, bring a

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The Guide • July 2014

lawn chair or blanket, enjoy variety of rock, country, folk and blues music. Info: (906) 9844124 or www.MackinacArtsCouncil.org Downtown Sidewalk Sales, in downtown Alpena. Info: (989) 354-4181 The Scott Pellegron Trio, SP3, 6 to 9 p.m. at the Pavilion on Court St. in downtown Gaylord, a blend of funk, soul, jazz and electronic music featuring original compositions, covers, and remakes of popular tunes. Info: (989) 732-4060 or www.

GaylordMichigan.net Wine Tasting, Car Cruise and BBQ, in AuGres, a street party and dance with Flipside Band at the old IGA 5 p.m. Fri., car show Sat. at 5:15 p.m. at AuGres Simms High School and a cruise to the City Park, with adult and child dance and limbo contest, flame throwing contest, Sinclair Band on Sat., kid games, adult games, model car show on Sunday, concessions both days; admission costs $5. Info: (989) 876-0270 2014 Cheboygan Downtown Music Fest & Rockin’ Rivertown Ride, 5 to 11:45 p.m. at Festival Square in downtown Alpena, variety of music, bike show on Main Street, poker run and more, registration for run is Fri. 5 to 10 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. to noon, with Poker Run at 12:30 p.m.; no charge for music, $25 for Poker Run. Info: (231) 627-9931 or www.Cheboygan.com Alpena Thunderstruck Softball Tournament, 4 to 8 p.m. at Alpena High School, Babe Ruth Complex and Fairgrounds in Alpena, a youth fastpitch softball tournament hosted by

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Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Grayling Recreation Authority 10k, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grayling Middle School in downtown Grayling, flat six mile course through downtown Grayling or do the one mile fun walk, t-shirts for all, awards to top three in each age group and prize for male and female overall winners; $25 early registration or $30 day of. Info: (989) 344-3558 or www.HansonHills.org Growing Mushrooms, 9 a.m. to noon, behind City Hall in Alpena, a Friends of the Alpena Farmers’ Market Educational Event, local mushroom guru Thadius Mckay teaches about mushroom cultivation and the how-to. Info: (989) 3544181 or AlpenaFarmersmarket.org The Cookies, 4 p.m. at Demonstration Garden off Livingston Blvd. in downtown Gaylord, performing Motown and dance music, tickets can be purchased at door or in advance at Seams Like New in downtown Gaylord, six for $20 in advance; $5 each at the door, 15-andyounger free. Info: (877) 982-7677 or www.

CrossroadsIndustries.com Rockin’ At The River: Brenda Loomis Band, 6 to 10 p.m. at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, Gladwin native Brenda Loomis is an original country music recording artist having worked with Josh Gracin, Time McGraw, Lee Brice, Leann Rhimes and more, reservations are suggested. Info: (989) 246-9123 Black Bear Bicycle Tour, 8 a.m. in Grayling, 100 mile bicycle tour

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that starts in Grayling and follows competitors in the AuSable River Canoe Marathon to the AuSable River Store/Oscoda Canoe Rental in Oscoda; entry is $30 through June 30, $35 prior and $40 day of. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.

BlackBearBicycleTour.com******* Tim Zimmerman and The King’s Brass, 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Houghton Lake United Methodist Church, special worship concert, King’s Brass features three trumpets, three trombones, a tuba, percussion and keyboards. Info: (989) 422-5622 or www.

RiverWalkPlace.net Explorations in Science, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at University Center in Gaylord, students entering 3-5 grades in various scientific chemistry, biology, anatomy physiology; bring your own lunch; $100. Info: (800) 705-3031 or www.UCGaylord.org Nautical Festival in Rogers City, with a sailors memorial, Schmidt Amusements, sidewalk art and kid’s events, entertainment, arts and crafts, food court, Carmeuse Calcite Plant Tour and equipment display, Bradley House historical museum open house, euchre tournament and much more. Info: (989) 734-4656 or www.

NauticalFestival.org Petals & Paws Fundraiser, 6 to 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, with live music by Andrew Kruske, BBQ, wine sample, artists, live auction and pet adoption, goody bag; $20, tickets available at RW Threads, Gladwin County Record, Gladwin County Animal Shelter and Claws and Paws Rescue of West Branch. Info: (989) 246-9140 or www.RiverWalkPlace.com

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option; Olympic distance triathlon is $85, $110 for relay option; cycling road race is $35. Info: (989) 335-3488 or www.HubbardLakeTriathlon. com 6th Annual Tawas Uncork’d Wine, Ale, and Food Festival, noon to 6:30 p.m. at Harbor Park in East Tawas, wineries and breweries from all over the state while local food vendors will be on hand; $10 early tickets can be purchased at Tawas Bay Insurance, Village Chocolatier and Nordic Sports, $12 day of. Info: (989) 362-3409 or www.TawasBay.com Cheboygan County Fair, at Cheboygan County Fairgrounds, an agricultural country fair featuring Skerbeck Carnival, horse and tractor pulls, grandstand entertainment, bump and run, rodeo, truck events, battle of the bands, 4-H agricultural exhibits, Thursday is kid’s day with $17 wrist bands; cost is $3, under 12 free, wrist bands $20. Info: (231) 627-7051 or www.Cheboygan. com Fly Fishing Through the Hatch & Non-hatch, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gates AuSable Lodge in Grayling, learn to read a rise form, present a fly, mend and other dry-fly necessities, explore wet fly techniques on river, bring equipment, waders for rent and a rod can be borrowed for class, limit to 10 people; $150 per person. Info: (989) 348-8462 or www.

GatesLodge.com****** Mackinaw City Antique Sale and Show, hosted by the Mackinaw City Women’s Club,10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mackinaw City High School, area antique shops sell and display antiques. Info: (231) 436-5626 or www.

MackinawCity.com 27th Annual FLOG Fest Golf Outing, noon at Rivers Edge Golf Club, Alpena, with networking for business professionals while raising money for the chamber. (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaChamber.com 29th Annual Ramblin Rods/Big Boy Sweetheart Cruise, 3 p.m. at Ripley Street Big Boy, Alpena, with vintage cars, muscle cars, street rods, classic cars, music, kid’s activities and street dancers at 6 p.m., Lud’s Famous Giantburgers will be available both inside dining or at our outside concession, “Sweet Heart” Cruise through the streets of Alpena begins at 9 p.m.. Info: (989) 464-5948 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Michaywe Arts and Crafts Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Michaywe grounds and clubhouse in Gaylord, with artisans from all over country displaying handcrafted creations including pottery, woodwork, stained glass, jewelry, clothing,

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Rendezvous in Mackinaw and 18th Century Fur Trade Fair, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Conkling Park in Mackinaw City, presenting Native Americans, Americans, French and English as they mixed togther in the 1700s and early 1800s, trade fair with merchants and blanket traders with 18th and 19th century clothes, crafts and accessories, musket firing, cooking demonstrations and more. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.

MackinawCity.com Hubbard Lake Triathlon, 8 a.m. at North End Park in Hubbard Lake, event for adventurous Michigan-loving athletes, a spectator and race experience like no other, Olympic and sprint distance triathlon with relay options and Hubbard Lake Cycling Road Race; sprint distance triathlon is $75, $100 for relay

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food items such as jam, sausages, dips and much more, kid’s art zone noon to 3 p.m. on Friday. Info: (989) 493-3805 or www.Michaywe. com**** Puddingstone Festival of Cheboygan County, at Festival Square in downtown Cheboygan, Puddingstone, rock and gem exhibitor displays, food vendors featuring unique items such as suet pudding, rocky road ice cream and more, Saturdays special events include Straits Area Geocachers, and “Stone Soup” performance by Northland Players, bring your favorite puddingstone to enter in the non-vendor display stall or carry around and show it off. Info: (231) 627-9597 or www.PuddingstoneFestival.org******* 31st Annual Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Show, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Alpena Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Club in Alpena, live music every evening in the barn, food and primitive camping available, daily demonstrations and exhibits; $5 admission, 12 and under free. Info: (989) 354-0820 or www.AlpenaAntiqueTractor. com ORV Jamboree, Richfield Township Park in St Helen, mud bog, sand run, obstacle course, silent auction and much more. Info: (989) 389-4961******** International Ironworkers Festival, in Mackinaw City, watch Ironworkers from all over the United States and Canada compete in events such as knot tying, rod tying, spud throw and much more, free ride in arial lift, bounce house for children; free admission. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.IronFest.com Forest Fest, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling, fun and educational children’s games, exhibits and displays on a variety of forest and natural resource-related topics, children receive a natural resource activity booklet and can earn stamps by visiting each activity station; event is free, Recreational Passport needed to enter.

Info: (989) 348-2537

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WEATHERED BIKER

By JERRY NUNN editor

LEAVE THE SUN ON.

Forget that biker Floyd Grucella is 88 years old. Rain, snow, it doesn’t matter much, Grucella says, he’ll ride in any weather. how people know me,” Grucella says.

“They call me Old Cob.” Last winter, Grucella suffered a series of heart attacks that nearly ended his days of riding for good.

Well wishes and prayers came from as far away as Scotland.

SKIDWAY LAKE – At some point in time you’d think an aging biker would set aside his motorcycle and be content to reminisce; to spend his later years reliving the miles of highway he traveled and freedoms of the open road.

Then again, you probably don’t know 88-year-old Floyd Grucella.

If elderly bikers eventually climb off the bike for the last time, Grucella hasn’t reached that point yet.

“I’m going to be 89 years Grucella goes nowhere without Hoochie old in August. I’m living Mama, the stuffed rabbit he carries strapped history. I’m an old man, don’t get to his decorated motorcycle. me wrong, but when I put on that And recently a parking lot chuck hole helmet I feel like I’m 18 years old again and get the hell out of my way,” Grucella put Grucella’s back out and sidelined him for a few days. says.

Nonetheless, Grucella doesn’t act Without a doubt, Grucella is one of much like an aging the oldest motorcyclists biker. in Michigan. While he I’m an “I’ve never been a knows bikers who are old man, fair weather rider; rain, even older, Grucella don’t get snow, sun, I don’t care, I guesses they number me wrong, still ride, “ Grucella said. fewer than 10. when I Born in New Jersey, From his quaint put on Grucella came to and comfortable home that Dearborn, Michigan as in Ogemaw County’s helmet a kid and was raised in Mills Township – a I feel like I’m Allen Park. tongue-and-groove 18 years “My dad and pine cottage decorated old grandpa jumped a with plaques, trophies again. freight train and came to and magazine articles - Floyd Detroit to work for Ford. representing more than Grucella That’s the way it was in 70 years in the life of those days,” Grucella a biker – the tall, lean said.

Grucella speaks in the He retired from Guardian Glass. roughhouse language that accompanies And for years Grucella worked as a his biker lifestyle. mechanic “back when mechanics did “I’m a crippled old biker and that’s

The Guide • July 2014

everything from rebuild a starter to bump and paint. I was just a kid but I was a mechanic. We did everything.”

Grucella’s biker career began in the early 1940s when he and a friend pitched in together to purchase a used bike.

“We bought an old Harley flathead,” Grucella said.

“It was an old ‘38 and we paid 25 bucks or something like that.”

A private pilot during his early years, Grucella had hoped Floyd Grucella, 88, shows to serve off his 1500cc Suzuki. as an airplane mechanic during World War II. Instead, the loss of sight in one eye exempted him from combat duty and Grucella served stateside, guarding German prisoners of war at Fort Sheridan, Illinois. Grucella remains highly patriotic.

“I still cry when I see the flag,” Grucella said. “I lost a lot of good friends; kids I sent to school with.”

After leaving the service in 1946 Grucella purchased a new 1948 Harley Davidson for $800. Since then he has owned “just about everything” including a beloved BSA that he “put about a

million miles on.” These days he rides a 1500 Suzuki Intruder, complete with sidecar. Quick to laugh and always willing to share a story, Grucella says he’s ridden as many as 17,000 mile per year on two wheels.

He has no plans to stop riding anytime soon and says he’ll continue helping out organizations he’s been involved with for years, including Bay County’s barrier-free Camp Fish Tales, as well as events that support veterans and cancer research.

“I’ve ridden thousands of miles on poker runs. I like to help out whenever I can,” Grucella said. “I’ve led a good life. I’ve had a lot of fun.

I’ve hit a few bumps in the road but I’ve always climbed back on.”

Perhaps the best chance to meet Grucella is at Ogemaw Hills Bike Week, one of Michigan’s best attended motorcycle rallies.

“I never miss Ogemaw Hills Bike Week. For starters, the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds is only six miles away,” Grucella said. Then a youthful glint appears in his eye and his ever-present smile broadens even larger. “Besides that, I’m a judge for the wet t-shirt contest. I couldn’t very well miss out on that now, could I?”

10th Annual Ogemaw Hills Bike Week

at the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds July 9-14 For 10 years running, building on an even longer history as Michigan’s premier motorcycle rally, Ogemaw Hills Bike Week has attracted thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts to the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds. This year is no different. As organizers and promoters of Ogemaw Hills Bike Week like to say: The tradition continues...

Featuring concerts, AMA Pro Hill Climb, flat track and motocross races, vintage motorcycles, contests and competitions, stage shows galore, stunt shows, camping, tours, parades, food and product vendors and much more.

Live Entertainment: Geneva, Revolver, Confederate Railroad, Drift Lifted, Pop Evil, Trick Pony, The Rock Show Band, Trigger Happy, The Mark Arshak Band and Steve Armstrong & the 25 Cent Beer Band.

See fire eater Chad Land, the Torch Fire Performer of Full Throttle Saloon and TruTV fame, on stage at the Fairgrounds July 11-12 as well as at Fabulous Fridays in Downtown West Branch on July 11.

To learn more about Ogemaw Hills Bike Week and see a complete schedule of events check online at www.OgemawHillsBikeWeek.com www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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Au Sable River Marathon: tips for spectators

• Custom Framing • Custom Maaing • Art Gallery more! and

116 N. State St. Oscoda, MI. (989) 739-7060 sharon@tysigns.com

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There is a reason that the Au Sable River Marathon is billed as the toughest spectator sport in the world. Here is some advice to make your spectator experience better.

By DENNIS MANSFIELD special to The Guide

Trust me, I know.

I’ve followed the marathon from start to finish, both for fun with friends and professionally for various publications.

THE Au SABLE RIVER – The Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, held annually on the last full weekend of July, ranks as one of the more unusual sporting events in North America.

Each year, teams of paddlers hoist their canoes to their shoulders at Spectators of The Au Sable River Marathon begin in the starting Grayling well before the 9 p.m. start of the race and line in After traipsing follow through the night as paddlers cover the 120 river-side across downtown miles to the finish line in Oscoda. four counties, I Grayling and run to the banks of the famous trout feel qualified to pass along a few tips to those traveling to Grayling for the 9 p.m. stream, then paddle 120 miles – mostly start of this year’s July 26 race, who at night – to the finish line in Oscoda. plan to follow the racers to the Iosco While extremely tough on County finish some 14 hours later. competitors, it’s a rare sporting event that has a playing field spanning 120 miles and the marathon is tough on spectators, too.

The Au Sable River Marathon is Race fans who choose surrounded by the week-long River Fest to follow the Au Sable River celebration filled with canoe-racing action Marathon, trying to get a and other fun events.

For complete details glimpse of their favorite and schedules visit these websites: team at bridges, dams and feeding stops along the www.AuSableCanoeMarathon.org route, especially first-time www.GraylingChamber.com spectators, would be well www.OscodaChamber.com served to follow a bit of advice.

The Guide • July 2014

For starters: Arrive early. daylight as the sun peaks out about 5:30 Festivities begin along the riverbank a.m. Longtime race committee member and throughout downtown Grayling a Joe Wakeley of Grayling said the ponds few hours before the race and are well before the dams allow spectators to worth attending. get a longer view of their team, as they The first hard rule of following approach the dams. the marathon: Prepare for anything.

Weather can vary, so maybe have a spare outfit in a bag or backpack. Include a sweatshirt and jeans, as well as rain gear. Throw in some bug dope and even sun block. And don’t forget to have a copy or two of the race The 11 a.m. ending of The Au Sable River Marathon “Even at program, is as much fun to watch as the beginning. As teams night, at the Mio which has a round the curve and head into the final stretch Dam, you can map of the upstream from the Mill Street bridge the William Tell see the lights river and Overture to excite the crowd and drive paddlers on. taped to the possible sites canoes coming to see the down the river,” says Wakeley. event.

Second: Pack a cooler.

Fourth: Pass by Foote Dam. Don’t load it just with snacks. The If you want to see the race-winning race is long and you’ll want something paddlers cross the finish line, it’s more substantial than chips. So throw probably best to skip the stop just before in some sandwiches and even fruit. that at Foote Dam. That is, unless you Go easy on the adult beverages, too, enjoy the rush of rushing. I’ll leave that and please have a designated driver. up to you.

Not only is it illegal to drive under the Fifth: Relax. influence, it’s dangerous, especially on After the race is done, go to the the country two-lane roads of Northeast beaches along Lake Huron in Oscoda Michigan at night. and enjoy some down time, lunch, Third: Set a limit. maybe a nap. It’s a long race, even for It’s silly to think you can hit every spectators. You’ve completed it now. timing spot. That’s too much driving, Kick back and enjoy. and parking, driving and parking, driving And here’s a last bit of advice: and parking. Again, much of this is at Don’t lose your car keys at the beach night and you’re bound to get tired. and then have to call your father to drive The best way to both watch and enjoy all the way from Grayling to let you in the marathon is to pick maybe five or your car, just so you can turn around six stops, out of the 15 timing stations, and drive back home. It’s not a good along the race. This not only allows you thing. Again, trust me. I know what I’m to enjoy the moment without having to talking about. rush from stop to stop, but you can also — Freelance writer Dennis Mansfield fit in a cat nap or two along the way.

Some of my favorite stops are operates Buckland Media, a Northern at Parmalee Bridge, Mio Dam and Michigan news service, based in his especially Alcona Dam, since it’s the first hometown, Grayling. portage of the morning where there’s www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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14

Mystery of the

Newberry Stones

By JERRY NUNN editor ST. IGNACE – The prehistoric artifacts are shrouded in legend, steeped in myth and supported by unproven theories. Yet modern day believers in the Newberry Stones – a clay tablet once covered in an unknown writing and three stone statues – remain convinced of their authenticity.

Supporters say the indecipherable rune stone and the statues that accompany it draw an undeniable link between Michigan’s Upper Peninsula copper country and the Bronze Age Minoan civilization that flourished on the Mediterranean Island of Crete from 2600 until 1400 B.C. Dug from the earth by lumberjacks in 1896, just north of the U.P. town of Newberry, the artifacts consisted of the Newberry Tablet and the three statues known as the McGruer Idols.

Unfortunately, it has become increasingly difficult for modern day techniques to authenticate the stones.

Made of unfired clay, the stones deteriorated greatly over the years.

Improper storage and public display have reduced the tablet to a bare remnant of its original 18 inch by 24 inch size.

“They were put on display in the front window of a store in downtown Newberry until people kind of got tired of looking at them,” says Bill Peek, curator of the Fort de Buade Museum in St. Ignace, owners of the artifacts.

The Smithsonian Institute and the The Guide • July 2014

The above photo depicts the Newberry Tablet as it was found in 1896. Left and below are all that remains.

photos by Dave Kunze

University of Michigan were informed of the find.

“The Smithsonian immediately dubbed them a fake and U of M never even bothered to respond,” Peek said.

Still, there are those who are convinced they are real.

Taken together with fact and supposition, the stone’s supporters present a convincing argument that connects Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the Minoan civilization.

For starters, they say that the U.P.’s uncommonly pure copper can be traced to European Bronze Age toolmakers – that historically, more copper was mined here than can be accounted for in the Americas because it was taken overseas by the Minoans. Additionally, the abrupt end to copper mining in the Superior region coincided with the fall of the Minoan empire.

Believers also note the similarities in tools, pottery and utensils used by Minoans to those found in ancient Lake Superior copper mines.

Perhaps most convincing, is the Perhaps that’s the way it will remain existence of a genetic marker traced to with the Newberry Stone.

Minoans. Worldwide, that DNA evidence What is left of the relics is housed is found only in people whose ancestors at the Fort De Buade Museum in St. are known to have traded with Minoans. Ignace, along with a collection of nearly That marker is found also in Ojibwa and 3,500 Native American and other Chippewa descendants in the Great artifacts of local importance that trace Lakes region.

Straits Area history from the period Yet detractors and deniers can be as of pre-contact, through the fur trade, persuasive.

French and English settlement, to The stones discovery in 1896 eventual American rule. preceded the discovery of the Minoan Fort De Buade’s culturally significant culture on Crete by nearly 10 years. collection is the largest and most It wasn’t until 1988 when Barry Fell important of its kind, depicting the connected the writing history of the Since their discovery in 1896, the on the Newberry important trade that McGruer Idols have suffered the same Stone to the took place at the deterioration as the Newberry Tablet. pictographic writing straits and the rule of Minoan culture. of nations over the Unfortunately, though area and its people.

Fell was an acclaimed Fort de Harvard University Buade Museum’s zoologist, his work in collection is epigraphy and ancient displayed according writing has largely been to chronological discredited by his peers. age and the The Newberry Stone’s discovery Newberry Stones are the first exhibit coincided with hundreds of visitors see when they enter, despite archaeological forgeries, including the their highly disputed age.

Michigan Relics, an ongoing hoax of Ultimately, whether the stones are consecutive forged “discoveries” that authentic artifacts or a 19th Century began in 1890 and spanned nearly 30 hoax, they remain an important part of years.

U.P. history.

Doubters also wonder how a clay “It is a part of our history now,” Peek tablet that was never heat treated said. “It was found in Newberry and has remained intact for several thousand remained in this area since it was found. years buried in shallow soil, but then That makes it an important part of our deteriorated within 100 years once it heritage.” was dug up.

So, are the Newberry Stones real or Recently the Newberry Stones not? garnered renewed attention when they “Either way, that’s not going to stop were featured on the History Channel’s us from promoting it,” said Peek.

America Unearthed. Like others before, And either way, folks from one side the show’s producers answered the of the argument – at least – will be left questions with speculation and theory. to wonder.

The Newberry Stones, or what remains of them, can be viewed at the Fort de Baude Museum in St. Ignace. So can more than 3,500 other relics that depict Straits Area history and the cultural impact that European settlement had on the native Anishinaabe people. Displayed in chronological order, the exhibits at Fort de Buade walk you through 8,000 years of Straits Area history.

Fort de Buade Museum is open this year through September 18 Hours vary and the museum is closed Mondays For more information go online to www.FortDeBuade.com.

Or call (906) 643-6627. www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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16

The road home

S

ure, Northeast Michigan offers plenty of solitude to the vacationer: Quiet beauty is our trademark. Of course even good times Up North can’t last forever.

Sooner or later you’ll head back down state and get back to work. What a shame, when the respite ends, to hit the highway home and join the rat race before ever departing the peaceful splendor you worked all year to enjoy. Let The Guide offer some direction: Skip the Interstate and take a state highway, set a slower pace and enjoy one final excursion on the road home. And for heaven’s sake, hurry back.

Duck off this toooften busy thoroughfare at Indian River and spend some Family Time at Big Bear Adventures with a round of putt-putt golf then Grab Some Grub at Wilson’s River Edge Restaurant. Further south, Browse and Buy in Gaylord’s robust downtown shopping district; time it right and you’ll discover some Art and Culture, or perhaps a Farmers Market, Under the Pavilion in the middle of town. Depart at Exit 244 and Grab some Grub, or a pizza, at Fred’s in Roscommon and then head east at the light for an Outdoor Adventure along the Tisdale Triangle Pathway, where flat terrain and multiple loops make it a great place for families to stretch their legs. Back in town, Old M-76 leads south to St. Helen, boyhood home of actor Charlton Heston. Heritage and History are recalled through a charter school named after the famous actor. Hit St. Helen during July 10-13 and celebrate the 65th Annual Bluegill Festival. Swing off at the West Branch business loop for treats at Dairy Queen and some Family Time at Irons Park. North of town the Ogemaw Hills Pathway is as fun to walk as it is to ski. Swing through Standish to prepare for your next trip with Directions and Information at the Historic Depot in downtown Standish.

Here are some of our suggestions:

Time it right and you can take in some Art and Culture at the historic 111-year-old Cheboygan Opera House or Grab some Grub at the Step In Restaurant located in downtown Cheboygan.

On your way out of town, take in an Outdoor Adventure at Lee Grande Ranch, a 2,434acre former buffalo ranch, now a recreational area and home to wildlife. Build extra time into your trip and when you reach Onaway, turn east out of town for another Outdoor Adventure at Ocqueoc Falls the only recognized waterfall in the Lower Peninsula and the 4.5 mile Ocqueoc Falls Pathway. Back on the highway, in Atlanta, stop by the Free Library, a Local Attraction located on your left just east of the light, to trade in your used books. North of Fairview you’ll find Heritage and History on display at the Steiner Museum, with a trove of early-20th century hand tools and other antique items. Duck off the main road in the area north of Mio to Browse and Buy from the area’s Amish merchants.

Bird lovers can’t go wrong at Country Feed Store, just west on Kittle Road, with a huge display of bird feeders and pet supplies. Grab some Grub at Narski’s in Alger, where you’ll probably find Mike and the gang making another batch of homemade jerky.

Before striking south-bound from Rogers City, cut over to Presque Isle Light Station for some Heritage and History at the tallest publicly accessible lighthouse on the Great Lakes.

Back on M-65 you’ll pass through the potato fields and Scenic Agricultural Views of Posen. In Long Rapids you can Browse and Buy from the northern garden and landscape specialists at Netta’s Nursery.

At Beaver Lake, eight miles south of M-32, Grab some Grub at The Depot Restaurant, with home-style meals and daily specials. Turn west in Glennie for Scenic Views of the AuSable River Valley at the Alcona Pond Overlook.

Explore further with an Outdoor Adventure hosted by Alcona Canoe Rental. South of the AuSable River you’ll find more Scenic Views and a chance to stretch your legs at the Westgate Welcome Center, the western end of the River Road Scenic Byway. In Hale, stop by Victorian Cafe, a Local Attraction popular for their ice cream and gourmet coffee. At the corner of M-65 and M-55 Browse and Buy at Sherni’s Candies. Hit the town of Whittemore on a Saturday evening and spend some Family Time at Whittemore Speedway, Michigan’s oldest, continuously operating race track.

The Guide • July 2014

You won’t travel far out of Mackinaw City to the find the History and Heritage combine with Outdoor Adventure at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, where you’ll find a climbing wall, a forest canopy rope course and a zip line. Swing through Rogers City for some Art and Culture at Domaci Gallery, then Grab some Grub next door at the Chicory Cafe enjoy your meal at Lakeside Park. and take in the Scenic Views at the Michigan Limestone overlook on your way out of town. Browse and Buy in downtown Alpena before you reach Ossineke and Dinosaur Gardens Prehistorical Zoo, a 40-acre, Christian themed park with towering statues of dinosaurs, as well as cave men and women. Further south, in Harrisville, Browse and Buy at Moose Tails featuring creative embroidery and rustic gifts, and then Grab some Grub at the Flour Garden, just south of the light, before perusing their huge selection.

Tuttle Marsh, located between Oscoda and Tawas is a bit out of the way, but well worth the detour for birders and Outdoor Adventure seekers.

In East Tawas you’ll find the perennially appropriate Marion’s Dairy Bar and in Tawas City you’ll find Tawas City Park, a popular Local Attraction.

www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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Recommends

Mackinaw Area Historic Festival Mackinaw Area Historic Festival August 1-2, 2014 at the Mackinaw Area Historical Society Heritage Village 1425 West Central Avenue, Mackinaw City located one mile-and-a-half west of downtown Mackinaw City Look for the white picket fence.

All events are free - free food on Friday only Friday, 6-9 p.m. – Square dancing, with free hot dogs, chips and beans, a marshmallow bonfire, and featuring storyteller Mary Stewart Adams.

Saturday, 10 a.m. To 4 p.m. – Vintage base ball, Edwardian/Victorian fashion show, Jack Pine Lumberjack demo and sawmill, Maypole, soap making, horse shoe throwing demo, wood carving, wooden bucket making, rug hooking, quilters, spinners, trolley, horse and wagon rides and more.

No pets please.

Info: www.MackinawHistory.org or call (231) 436-5574. Find Heritage Village at Mackinaw on Facebook Mackinaw Area Heritage Village tells the story of early straitsarea settlers and the time before modern convenience. The Village is open daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and features authentic historic buildings including the saw mill that cut logs for the shipping locks of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan’s last remaining pestilence house, a log farm home, a one room school house, renovated chapel, community and children’s gardens and more.

Costumed interpreters are on site 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Admission is free but donations sustain this important historical effort.

!

kids e h t or

s n ride o g a w rawn corating d e s r e Ho ole D ll day! p y a M es a Gam y rides e Troll

F

Five Lake Huron lighthouses: Monuments to our maritime heritage

Light. Still, the lighthouse remains a popular attraction. Tours are available and the private owners of the restored light keeper’s quarters offer sunset dinner cruises to the enchanting island. While a small portion of the island, including the actual lighthouse tower, is owned by the Nature Conservancy, 80 percent of Charity Island is part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge system. The forested island boasts unique hardwood forests, rare shoreline plants like Pitcher’s thistle and excellent birding and wildlife viewing.

By CLAIRE WOOD Huron Pines AmeriCorps member NORTHEAST MICHIGAN – With summer finally here, there is much to enjoy about living in the Great Lakes region, home to the largest system of freshwater lakes on earth. With more than 10,000 miles of coastline, at one time nearly 250 lighthouses protected mariners who sailed the inland seas. Today, only about 115 lighthouses remain on our precious lakes. Let’s explore a few:

Tawas Point Lighthouse, East Tawas

Want to know what it’s like to live in a lighthouse and be a lightkeeper? Through the Tawas Point Keeper’s Program, the DNR offers the chance. With this unique experience, visitors stay in the restored lightkeeper’s quarters and greet guests to provide historical information and lead tours, as well as help with maintenance of the lighthouse and grounds. Built in 1853, Tawas Point lighthouse is the only true Victorian-era style station remaining on the Great Lakes. Located at Tawas Point State Park, camping is available and the shallow beach is great

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for swimming. Tawas Bay is an excellent fishing destination, where a limestone reef teems with perch, walleye and small mouth bass while creating a perfect protected area in the bay for sailing.

Charity Island Lighthouse, Saginaw Bay

Nestled central in the entrance to Saginaw Bay between Au Gres and Caseville, in the Thumb, Charity Island is the largest island in the bay. Charity Island has long been revered for its historic lighthouse and unique harbor that offer refuge for voyagers. Built in 1857, Charity Lighthouse operated until 1930 when it was replaced by the automated Gravelly Shoal

McGulpin Point Lighthouse, Mackinaw City

Located just west of Mackinaw City, McGulpin Point Lighthouse was built in 1869 to help ships navigate the Straits of Mackinac.

The light operated until 1906 and became a private residence before its purchase by Emmet County in 2008. Now open free to the public throughout the summer, the lighthouse sits hillside above McGulpin Rock, a boulder used for centuries by Native Americans as a navigational tool. Historically, McGulpin Point was a significant meeting place for Odawa Native Americans and is today an archaeological site where historic artifacts are found. McGulpin Point is also the home to the Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch, where thousands of hawks and other birds of prey are counted during their spring migration north. Only a half-mile from Emmet County’s International Dark Sky Park and close to Wilderness State Park, there is plenty to do and see when

The Guide • July 2014

visiting McGulpin Point.

Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, Harrisville

Built in 1869 to keep mariners from running aground on a harrowing reef, Sturgeon Point Light remains a navigational station maintained by the Coast Guard. The lighthouse is part of the historical site and maritime museum run by the Alcona County Historical Society, open to the public through summer. Sturgeon up to 10 feet long once spawned on the reef, which is how the site got its name. There were 27 shipwrecks during Michigan’s peak shipping era of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and the reef, one of the longest in Lake Huron, still poses a shipping hazard. On the grounds sits one of the few one-room schoolhouses left in Michigan befit with period décor.

Also on the grounds are Lake Huron shipwreck remains and other historical pieces. Sturgeon Point is a perfect destination for a relaxing afternoon reminiscing about simpler times.

New Presque Isle Lighthouse, Presque Isle

Completed in 1871, the new Presque Isle Light was built on Presque Isle Point and still is a functioning station. Visible for 25 miles, the Presque Isle Lighthouse is one of the highest towers on the

Great Lakes and is the tallest tower the public may climb. Open from spring to fall, visitors experience amazing views from the top and on a clear day one can see Canada’s Great Duck Island. The tower is made of limestone and close by, in Rogers City is the Calcite limestone quarry, the world’s largest open pit limestone quarry. Located in a township park along with the Old Presque Isle

Light, built in 1840, the park has a museum, gift shop, picnic area and nature trails. This park is a great stop for anyone interested in Great Lakes history or just looking for a pleasant peninsula and spectacular views.

Aerial photos taken by Tim Engelhardt, Huron Pines invasive species coordinator, while surveying the Lake Huron shore for phragmites.

Front line labor force: Whether it is preserving our heritage, protecting our resources or performing thousands of other tasks, AmeriCorps members are often the first to help plan and the last to help clean-up. Recently more than 50 AmeriCorps members and volunteers from across northern Michigan held the Northern Michigan Russ Mawby Signature Service Project at McGulpin Point lighthouse, beautifying and restoring the grounds of a site truly representative of Northern Michigan’s unique heritage.

— Huron Pines is a non-profit organization based in Gaylord, serving 14 counties in Northeast Michigan. The mission of Huron Pines is to conserve the forests, lakes and streams of Northeast Michigan by bringing together regional partners, acquiring funding and managing sustainable watershed projects.

Visit www.huronpines.org to learn more.

Special Opportunity!

Huron Pines has partnered with Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC, to bring an exciting new opportunity for landowners. During August 13–17, HRM staff will be accompanying Huron Pines on site visits to landowners who want to learn more about amphibians and reptile management on their property.

Contact our office to sign up for a site visit today!

www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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Sturgeon on loan

M ISSI O

N: TO PR

Super

By: Ha iley Abby O’B Niedzwieck i, Amelia ryan, Elly Cla Berles rke,

By raising this native fish, students are promoting Lake Huron biodiversity and raising awareness about native fish species among their community. Just this year, Ella White students worked with Michigan Sea Grant to create a new poster line of Lake Huron’s indigenous fish, portraying these native species as cartoon superheroes.

By DANIEL MOFFATT Program Coordinator, Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative

offering funny behaviors every day. Sticking to a strict maintenance and feeding schedule, the students cared for their sturgeon’s BLACK RIVER – Lake Huron’s largest and every need – food and longest living native fish species was an extended- water quality, shelter and stay guest in three Northeast Michigan classrooms space - by maintaining its this year as part of the Department of Natural classroom mini-habitat.

Resources’ pilot program loaning lake sturgeon to Frozen bloodworms were the schools for study. diet of choice for the young lake sturgeon grew Students from Cheboygan Middle School, from four inches to 18 inches over a period of Onaway High School and Ella White Elementary in seven months. Not a bad start for a fish that may Alpena welcomed their very own gilled classmates eventually reach 6-8 feet and 200-300 pounds or in October when the fish were only about four more in its lifetime. inches long.

Lake sturgeon are now listed as a threatened Hosting the sturgeon proved to be quite the species in Michigan and either threatened or classroom learning opportunity for the caretaking endangered by 19 of the 20 states within its students. original range in the U.S. Due largely to historic At the fifth grade level, students learned about commercial overfishing, pollution and habitat loss, fish biology by applying math and tracking growth their rare status also offered a great opportunity for rates, allowing students students to study to understanding environmental adaptations – or body issues, features – while helping considering how sturgeon survive in their humans interact watery environment. with Great Lakes In these ways, the watersheds and sturgeon served as the fish within. a simple yet effective Just as opportunity to solidify students were those concepts for released from the students through school for the hands-on summer, the An MSU student-researcher preps the sturgeon for experiences sturgeon were tagging before Ella White Elementary students release each and released into their fish just below Kleber Dam. every day.

Cheboygan County’s Black With River. sturgeon, each day brought tasks of feeding “Releasing the fish was by far the best part of and tank maintenance and observing a fish that the program,” said Ann Douglas, science teacher was growing more than one inch per month and at Cheboygan Middle School. “The students were

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The Guide • July 2014

OTECT

TH E G R

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amazed while visiting the hatchery, seeing the different sizes and life stages of the sturgeon, and when we went to the spawning site on the river, researchers were tagging them and pulling out four-footers.”

Each class released the fish under the direction of Dr. Kim Scribner, professor with Michigan State University Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. Scribner oversees the Black River Streamside Hatchery and Rearing Facility near the Kleber Dam, located northwest of Onaway.

Brenda Archambo, president of Sturgeon for Tomorrow, a catalyst to this program, offered her hand throughout and was present from first loan to last release.

Support

community-based education in Northeast Michigan.

Visit www.NEMIGLSI.org today.

like this successful. Finding expertise and opportunity to work closely with partners like MDNR, Michigan State University and Sturgeon for Tomorrow was a great way for teachers to gain resources and expertise needed to pilot a project like Sturgeon on Loan.

By raising this native fish, students are promoting Lake Huron biodiversity and raising awareness about native fish species The lake sturgeon is a threatened species in Michigan among their but three schools in Northeast Michigan participated in an community. educational pilot program with the Michigan DNR. Just this Onaway High School students are joined by teacher Scott year, Ella swimming as far back as 136 million years ago, Steensma and Brenda Archambo, president of Sturgeon White during the days of dinosaurs, and remain in our for Tomorrow, as they release a classroom-raised Lake students worked Great Lakes waterways today. Living to be as old Sturgeon in the Black River. with Michigan Sea as 100 years or more in age, it is likely that the adult Grant to create a parents of the young sturgeon witnessed many In common, these three schools are active new poster line of Lake environmental changes caused by people over the partners within the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Huron’s indigenous fish, past century.

Stewardship Initiative network, learning from each portraying these native Students from each school released their other and partnering with their communities to species as cartoon sturgeon wondering what the future might bring. develop and implement meaningful place-based superheroes. In addition to They hope things may be a little brighter when the stewardship education projects with their students. the classroom sturgeon, they also raised and released fish returns to the river to spawn many years down the The initiative provides resources and funding, but also lake trout as part of their studies. line, thanks to the environmental stewardship facilitates professional development and community Lake sturgeon are not only amazingly cool commitment of these young students from Northeast partnership opportunities that help make a project looking and charismatic fish, they are prehistoric – Michigan today.

www.NEMIGLSI.org

Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative The Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative is a regional partnership of schools and community partners working to promote place-based, community-based learning experiences. This network serves to engage youth as partners in protecting our Great Lakes and natural resources of Northeast Michigan through hands-on, feet-wet learning in (and with) the community.

Visit NEMIGLSI online to see projects in action & learn how you can participate www.NEMIGLSI.org

The NE MI GLSI supports: • Place-based education programs with youth: Hands-on, place-based education is a proven method for developing knowledgeable and active stewards of the environment.

• Educators and school improvement: Through training and professional development for teachers, NEMI GLSI supports the use of best practices that maximize the effectiveness of PBE. • Strong school-community partnerships: Schools and communities working together producing powerful partnerships that are beneficial to all.

Help NE MI GLSI support youth development and environmental stewardship in our communities!

To donate contact: Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan (877) 354-6881 or

www.cfnem.org Funding in support of the NE MI GLSI provided by Great Lakes Fishery Trust, Community Foundation for NE MI, NOAA B-WET, and Toyota 4-H20, among many other local contributing partners. www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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Maritime Festival Independence Day Celebration

J

oin Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary on the 4th Of July for a star-spangled celebration at the Thunder Bay Maritime Festival in Alpena. To commemorate America’s birthday and Thunder Bay’s rich maritime heritage, the festival will offer live entertainment, tours on tall ships, kids’ activities, cardboard boat races, food, demonstrations, exhibits, displays and more.

Admission is free.

The celebration will be held from 10 a.m. To 5 p.m. at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, 500 W. Fletcher Street, Alpena.

The Alpena waterfront will bustle with activity, including a living history program, crafters, wooden boat displays and the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Trail. Boatloads of activities are planned for youngsters including fun, educational games and activities with rope making and driving an underwater robot. For a fee, giant inflatable play stations will also be available including a wet and wild waterslide.

Inside the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, check out “Exploring the Shipwreck Century,” the 10,000 square-foot main exhibit. This interactive exhibit includes a life-size replica of a Great Lakes schooner battling a Lake Huron storm and a full-scale shipwreck for visitors to explore. Also check out NOAA’s Science on a Sphere, an animated globe that shows dynamic, animated images of the atmosphere, oceans and land of a planet. The sphere has over 350 data sets that show a view of the Earth from space, the solar system, global weather and geological patterns. Only 100 of these exhibits exist around the world, with one located here in Alpena.

To learn more about Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary’s 4th of July Celebration, check them out online at www.ThunderBay.noaa.gov Or follow Thunder Bay here: Facebook: facebook.com/ ThunderBayShipwrecks Twitter: twitter.com/ ThunderBayWreck YouTube: youtube.com/TBNMS

The Guide • July 2014

Fannie-A Open Water Challenge Celebrating the100th Anniversary of the Fannie-A Marine Adventure of 1914

O

ne of the most harrowing marine adventures in Alpena history occurred 100 years ago, on March 21, 1914.

The Fannie-A was a fish tug working out of Alpena, delivering the lighthouse keeper and his assistants to Thunder Bay Island to ready the lighthouse for the coming shipping season. After dropping the crew on Thunder Bay Island the Fannie-A headed north to set fishing nets but became trapped by Maritime Festival schedule of entertainment Noon: C2 Charlie Squared 1 p.m.: Song of the Lakes 2 p.m.: C2 Charlie Squared 3 p.m.: Song of the Lakes 4 p.m.: Cardboard Boat Regatta

Award Ceremony All day along the river: Genot Picor

ice flows and became frozen fast in a mass of ice. Late in the afternoon the four crew members of the Fannie-A left the stranded vessel in a twelve foot skiff headed for Sugar Island only threequarters of a mile away. Struggling through icy water, progressing inch by inch, it took the men more than five hours to reach the island.

To commemorate those hardy mariners, the Fannie-A Open Water Challenge is a seven mile circumnavigation of Grass Island in Thunder Bay starting from the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary. Participants row or paddle small boats in the open Lake Huron waters of Thunder Bay. Conditions can vary dramatically across the course with occasional strong winds and high waves. We have no rain date. The Fannie-A Challenge will be held. Powerboats will monitor checkpoints, but no escorts are provided – expect to out of sight and independent most of the time. Solid experience with your watercraft is a must. You will need to plan an escape path to safety and, if you encounter

problems along the way, pull out and contact us. The orderly, safe and sportsmanlike conduct of this event is your personal responsibility.

If these hardy souls could survive their ordeal then some of you can survive the Fannie-A Open Water Challenge. Anyone 18-and-older with a seaworthy oar or paddle powered craft is welcome to try.

Fannie-A Open Water Challenge Saturday, July 5 A seven mile open water rowing/ kayak/canoe race down the Thunder bay River, across Thunder Bay, starting at Rotary Bridge, rounding Rotary island and returning to the river.

Awards to top male and female in four classes.

All participants must register for the event, which includes signed waivers.

Early registration through July 1 costs $10 and includes an event t-shirt, late registration costs $15 and runs through 7-8 a.m. on race day.

Contact (989) 354-7314 for more information.

For more information about Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary www.ThunderBay.noaa.gov

SOME SECRETS WERE MEANT TO BE SHARED Stay & Play on Tawas Bay in 2014! www.TawasBay.com • 877-TO-TAWAS Annual Tawas Bay Summerfest July 12 - 13 Fun filled weekend for the entire family, Fish Boil, Kiwanis 5k run/walk, Kid’s Bike & Pet Parade, Paws in the Park, Street Dance, Car Cruise & Show.

54th Annual

Tawas Bay Waterfront Fine Arts Show

August 2 - 3 Enjoy mixed mediums such as paint, pottery, sculpting, jewelry including seaglass jewelry on silver, photographers, authors.

Children’s make and take tent, sandcastle building contest, demonstrations, food vendors, live music in the gazebo and more.

These events aren’t all that is happening in Tawas Bay Rich in history, brimming with culture Tawas Bay is your place to stay.

Grab some fresh grub on Saturdays at the Northeast Michigan Regional Farm Markets. Catch some live entertainment with Concerts in the Park on Mondays and Tuesday Night LIVE! on Tuesdays. Uncork’d Wine and Food festival is coming in the beginning of August followed by Blast the Blues at the end of August. Don’t forget Tawas Bay is home to some of Northeast Michigan’s finest beaches and is only a stones-throw from the River Road Scenic Byway. Come stay and play on Tawas Bay. You won’t be disappointed. For more information on these events or other area info contact us at 877-TO-TAWAS.

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Industrial

By JERRY NUNN editor

Presque Isle County’s new Industrial Art Institute will teach far more than just welding and metal fabrication.

Those who attend there will gain skills in a wide range of disciplines so they can make it, where ever they are.

ONAWAY – Training skilled welders and heavy metal fabricators is nothing new for Moran Iron Works. The Presque Isle County company had dealt with a workforce shortage of highly skilled welders for a long time.

Now Moran Iron Works has addressed the dearth of skilled welders and fabricators in Northeast Michigan and beyond by starting the Industrial Arts Institute.

The school, located in the former Art Van furniture store in Onaway, will deliver a 15 week course in welding and fabrication.

Graduates will depart the Industrial Arts Institute with the abilities they need, while possessing the skills that world class companies seek, says Mike Mehan, an instructor at the institute and a qualified welding inspector at Moran Iron Works.

“Welding is certainly a big part of it,” The Guide • July 2014

Art

Mehan said. “But there is much more to it than just welding.”

While all aspects of welding and fabrication will be covered, from simple math and measurement, to operating equipment employed by iron workers, Mehan says that students will learn on the most up-to-date industrial equipment.

Unique, perhaps, to the welding trade is the granting of certifications, a means of demonstrating a welder’s competency. Certifications are overseen by certified welding instructors and are granted when a welder can perform a

particular weld at a consistent level of quality. A qualified welder may possess any number of certifications.

“When a student leaves here they’ll have more certifications than a lot of guys in the real world,” Mehan said.

And, while learning takes place in a shop setting, instruction will take place in high-tech classrooms as well, where i-pads, smart-boards and audio-visual equipment will be employed, according to Marilyn Kapp Moran, public relations director and wife of company president Tom Moran.

So too will more basic “soft” skills, such as personal integrity and work

by Moran Iron, state accreditation will allow students to seek Pell grants and other funding sources.

Industrial Arts Institute is equipped to enroll 24 students at a time. Marilyn Moran anticipates the school to draw from a national, if not international, student base and an agreement with the Walter and May Reuther U.A.W. Education Center in nearby Black Lake

“

I’m going to tell you right now, if you learn how to weld you’ll never go hungry.

– Nick Hein, industrial arts teacher at La Salle High School in St. Ignace

ethics, skills that Moran says her company expects and other companies are increasingly looking for.

Tuition for the 15 week, 600 hour course will cost $12,200. Students will be held to a high standard of performance that will prepare them for the work force, Moran says. With the school’s curriculum developed through the American Welding Society, based on the same standards already employed

”

will supply student housing for those coming from out of the area.

While students will be well equipped, skills-wise, to go anywhere and enter the welding field, the Industrial Art Institute is one way for Moran Iron Works to build its own employee base.

“The bottom line is, you can come here and go to school and leave here to go to work anywhere in the world,” said Mehan.

society’s needs for new infrastructure increase, and the need for greater power supply grow, an entire generation As of welders is preparing to retire from the field. That leaves the

welding industry on the verge of a hiring spree, according to Mehan.

Nonetheless, with business booming in an industry poised for rapid growth, leaders of Moran Iron Works have faced obstacles before.

First they built a high wire corridor from Onaway to the deepwater Port Calcite, in Rogers City, 20 miles away. The higher power lines allow over-the-road shipment of the huge metal air handling components the company builds and ships by barge to places all over the world.

And recently the company expanded, acquiring a new, smaller location in Cheboygan with lower operating costs, for the fabrication of components and smaller projects. To foster a greater sense of teamwork employees rotate between jobs and facilities.

Now, with the Industrial Arts Institute accepting its first batch of students in August, the company continues its steady growth in Northeast Michigan.

Learn about the Industrial Arts Institute: www.iaiworks.com Learn more about Moran Iron Works: www.MoranIron.com www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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28

Capitalizing on a resource

Monetizing our natural resources can be a sticky and political topic. That’s good because with such an abundance of natural resources, Northeast Michigan needs to hear all the opinions, as we consider all our options, if we ever expect to realize economic prosperity.

By JERRY NUNN editor

THE JACK PINE FOREST – For such a scarce little creature, the Kirtland’s warbler certainly makes itself readily available and easy to see.

That’s good.

It means that the folks from all over the world who travel here to check one of the world’s rarest birds off their bird life list almost likely won’t be far – the KW’s always find success. territory is less than 10 acres in The reasons the KW is so easy size. Look up: You’ll find him in to see are simple, really. the taller vegetation, often times For starters, the bird is fiercely the leader of a jack pine tree. territorial, spending its days And the bird is curious, too, flitting about the jack pines, often attracted to commotions vocalizing to its peers – “Get like that made by noisy bird back boys, this little corner of the watchers. world belongs to me.” To make The natural curiosity earned itself more visible to would be high marks for the little bird with rivals and birdwatchers alike, it people of influence at least once makes these boasts from the tips in the past. of the tallest trees in its territory.

Seeking attention for the Pull into a jack pine forest, bird and their local economic listen for the bird’s identifiable endeavors, organizers of the song and first ever follow the call.

Kirtland’s Hear the territorial call of the He is blue-gray Warbler Kirtland’s warbler for yourself. in color, with Festival Go to Cornell Lab of Ornithology at spots of black invited www.AllAboutBirds.org and type and white, and then Vice Kirtland’s warbler into the prominent with a dull President of search bar. In addition to the audio file the United yellow breast. of the warbler’s call, you’ll get to read States Al He’ll probably all about the Kirtland’s warbler. be pumping Gore to his tail. And he come to The Guide • July 2014

their event. When Gore couldn’t along and do so for their own self attend, the administration send interest.

Bruce Babbitt, secretary of the It’s a topic we can’t afford to interior, instead. ignore.

On festival day, Babbitt and Fortunately, folks at Huron an entourage of dignitaries toured Pines understand that. They’ve the Kirtland’s warbler habitat and opened the topic by beginning the commotion they created in the middle of the quiet jack pines drew the attention of a Kirtland’s warbler. The little bird landed on the ground just a few feet away from Babbit.

Reportedly, Babbitt was Kirtland’s warbler habitat tour leader Keith Kintigh talks impressed to a group including State Rep. Bruce Rendon, State

by Kirtland’s Senator Darwin Booher as well as local economic warbler. developers about the importance of the warbler’s jack But Babbitt was more pine habitat for other wildlife. impressed by the efforts of Mio locals to bolster Oscoda the conversation, by hosting County’s economy through the a Kirtland’s warbler tour that promotion of an endangered invited state legislators and species.

Northeast Michigan’s economic He termed the effort to development crowd to see the capitalize on the rare Kirtland’s bird. warbler as the “Mio Model,” and State Senator Darwin Booher, extolled it nationally whose district as a framework for includes economic growth Roscommon that could be adapted County and elsewhere. others, was We need to get on hand. back to Babbitt’s So too was “Mio Model” right Representative here in Northeast Bruce Rendon Michigan. of Lake City.

If Northeast Like Michigan has any Babbitt before clear path to greater them, they economic prosperity traipsed into it is though the the jack pines responsible promotion and – while of our abundant the bird did natural resources. If we Peering through binoculars Michigan House of Representative don’t monetize Bruce Rendon eyes a Kirtland’s warbler for the first time in his life those resources as Ogemaw County business owner Matt Pollard, State Senator for the common Darwin Booher and tour leader Keith Kintigh a wildlife supervisor good, someone with the DNR, look on. else will come

not land at their feet – they did get a good and lengthy look at a Kirtland’s warbler.

Along for the tour, and just as important, were local economic developers, folks with the initiative to take the conversation back to their organizations and agencies, for greater, more open discussion.

So too, were the DNR officials who led the tour and spend their time protecting our natural resources. Those folks understand the one thing that we all need to keep in mind.

That the real reason the warbler is so easy to see, despite numbering barely 2,000 pairs worldwide, is because nearly that entire population is centered on, and lives almost exclusively in, six counties right here in Northeast Michigan.

The rarity of the Kirtland’s warbler should make it easier than ever to capitalize on.

But in selling a resource the conversation becomes more important than ever.

The Guide gives huge credit to Huron Pines for starting the discussion. We credit too, the legislators and economic leaders who took time out of their busy schedules to be a part of it.

And we look forward to the guidance that Huron Pines will provide as these economicfocused talks concerning our resources move forward.

But most of all The Guide looks forward to helping keep the conversation moving.

When it does, we’ll report back to you.

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Tragedy to tribute Grayling Golf Tribute recalls a community’s great loss while providing hope for the future.

By DENNIS MANSFIELD special to The Guide

?

GRAYLING – The tragic accident of April 29, 2013 that took the life of high school golf coach Jason Potter, varsity linkster Louis Menard, and Cassandra Stapleton of Kalkaska, rocked the small town of Grayling.

On Friday, June 13, in a moment of sharing and healing, the community of Grayling literally rocked back.

For better and worse, as a journalist and resident of this Crawford County town, I saw both events.

I arrived on scene 15 minutes after the two-vehicle crash last April. The carnage was horrific.

As I lifted my camera to record the moment, the faces on the firefighters, police and other emergency personnel told the story.

!

emotional dedication of the Grayling Golf Tribute at the Grayling Golf Club memorializes the 2013 Grayling High School boys varsity golf team in hopes that the team and community can move forward.

Meant to heal tragedy’s wounds, the tribute is a monument to those who were lost, those who were injured and those who persevered afterward – a monument to a community rallying together in its time of need.

I’ve run across many of the survivors since the accident. For the most part, they’ve returned back to their daily lives, back to high school, even back to playing golf.

But, it was amazing to see them standing there at the dedication service.

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Located at Grayling Country Club and dedicated to the 2013 Grayling High School varsity golf team, the Grayling Golf Tribute memorializes the loss of golfer Louis Menard and Assistant Coach Jason Potter in an April, 2013 automobile accident.

Lives had been lost – though others were saved. While Potter, Menard and Stapleton were killed, six other members of the golf squad were injured.

But that was then.

Now, nearly 14 months later, an The Guide • July 2014

It was emotional for all, including myself, despite my attempts to remain detached as I took notes and photos.

Chet Wheeler, who stepped into the role of assistant coach for the Grayling

golf team, said the ceremony is probably the last formal event to remember those we lost.

“One year ago today was a dark day,” Wheeler said. “It’s why this project came to be. … Today, it’s finally done. It’s here.

“It’s your project. It’s for your boys. It’s for the community of Grayling.”

Organizers hope the tribute site will provide a place for those impacted by the accident, somewhere to share memories and put tragedy in the past.

Detroit Piston announcer George Blaha, who grew up The tribute isn’t just for in Grayling, attended the June 13 dedication ceremony Grayling residents. With for the Grayling Golf Tribute and credits the memorial for stories of the accident both honoring those lost and giving hope to survivors. making state and national headlines, Wheeler said The tribute cost nearly $50,000, with anyone is welcome to stop and visit the more than $32,000 raised through the site.

“My hope is people truly come and sale of bricks and sponsorships. Brick hang out here,” Wheeler said. “We sales will continue to help maintain the want them to come and share stories, tribute. whatever.

Donations collected at 35 golf “It’s open to everybody,” he added. courses from around Michigan, show “You don’t have to play golf to see it.” the widespread outpouring of support,

according to Jerry Coyne, co-owner of the Grayling-based Blarney Stone Broadcasting and foundation board member.

A special guest to the ceremony was “Grayling son” George Blaha, wellknown basketball announcer for the Detroit Pistons and MSU. Blaha was a thousand miles away when the accident occurred.

“But I couldn’t get my mind off of it,” Blaha told the crowd. “This project has brought so much hope to people. And we remember those who were lost.”

Several members of Kalkaska Township Fire Department Station No. 7, just one of the agencies who responded to the accident, attended. Mark Holston, a lieutenant for Station No. 7, said he was grateful for the opportunity to attend the ceremony.

“Usually we only see the tragedy,” Holston said. “Then we’re gone.

“This is healing for us, too.”

Perhaps Chet Wheeler summed it up best.

“This is a proud moment for all of us, to see the support this has brought

to Grayling. Our community is like no other,” Wheeler told the crowd. “We are Grayling strong. We are Viking tough.

We came together to make this work.”

As a professional writer I could have said it no better.

After living here for nearly four decades I’ve never been more proud to be a Viking. While I graduated from the Grayling High School, oh, so long ago, only now do I understand what it means to be “Grayling strong,” the rallying cry of the community since the accident.

Truly, those who’ve worked so hard to remember and honor the past have set a high standard for community pride in the future.

— Freelance writer Dennis Mansfield operates Buckland Media, a Northern Michigan news service based in his hometown, Grayling.

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Camp WEST BRANCH – Ah, summer camp. Sun and swimming, campfires and s’mores, new friends and memories to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for that carefree charm to wear off.

Wouldn’t it be nice to relive those untroubled days of youthful summertime clear through to adulthood?

Well Camp Kitigin gives you that chance, to be a kid again, to refresh and renew in that happy-go-lucky environment we found at summer camp.

Designed by the DNR and Michigan Recreation & Park Association, Camp Kitigin is meant for adults – for those 21-and-older who want and need to learn how to play again.

Hosted by Ogemaw County’s Camp Timbers, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to play.

Activities found at the Saginaw YMCA-owned facility include: • archery • gaga ball • arts & crafts • high ropes course • beach volleyball • hiking • campfires & storytelling • horseback riding • canoeing & kayaking • mountain biking • capture the flag • orienteering • climbing tower • skits • cooking • sports • dance • swimming & water slide • disc golf • zip lines • fishing Camp Kitigin is screen free – no smartphones, no tablets, no laptops and no wifi. Participants receive a journal and a disposable camera when they arrive, so they can experience camp the old fashioned way.

“In a 2008 University of Michigan study, it was proven that being in nature improves human memory and focus,” said Ann Conklin, chief operating officer at MRPA. “Camp Kitigin is an opportunity for adults to spend time in nature, disconnecting for a short time to return to work and family with an improved sense of well-being.”

Camp Kitigin will be held two weekends: August 15-17 and September 12-14.

Arrival is Friday, departure is Sunday and the $200 cost of camp includes lodging, meals, activities, crafts and an official Camp Kitigin participation pack: t-shirt, journal and pen, disposable camera and some surprises.

To register for Camp Kitigin visit Michigan Recreation & Park Association online at mrpaonline.org and hover over “What’s Happening.” You’ll find Camp Kitigin on the dropdown menu.

For more information call the MRPA (517) 485-9888.

The Guide • July 2014

NORTHEAST

RECREATION

ast tracts of state land serve V as treasures to Michigan’s citizens. The 17 State Parks

that lie in The Guide’s coverage area provide an excellent way MICHIGAN to enjoy those resources.

In the next couple of issues we’ll highlight those parks, their amenities and include a list of local attractions. So pack the tent, roll up the sleeping bags and put the kids in the car. It’s time to go camping.

5001 US-23 North Rogers City (989) 734-2543

106 State Park Drive Roscommon (989) 821-6374

Heavily wooded and featuring a mile of Lake Huron’s sandy shore, 300 acre P.H. Hoeft State Park connects to the Huron Sunrise Trail stretching to Rogers City and Port Calcite, the largest open-pit limestone quarry in the world.

Set on the south shore of crystalclear Higgins Lake, South Higgins Lake State Park boasts nearly one mile of shoreline and is across the road from Marl Lake and 700 acres of oak, maple and pine forest.

Facilities:

144 sites Swimming beach Mini Cabin Lodge Modern restrooms

Attractions:

10 miles of trails Straits Area Lake Huron Ocqueoc Falls Explorer program Herman Vogler Conservation Area

Drive times:

Rogers City

5 minutes Ocqueoc Falls 20 minutes Cheboygan 40 minutes Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary 45 minutes Mackinac Bridge 60 minutes Pigeon River State Forest 60 minutes

Facilities:

More than 400 campsites Swimming beach Mini cabin Modern restrooms

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Attractions:

11 miles of trails Higgins Lake Marl Lake Fishing program Boat basin Boat rentals Concession/store

Drive times:

Roscommon 12 minutes Houghton Lake south shore 20 minutes Wellington Farm Park USA 20 minutes Au Sable River south branch 20 Minutes AuSable Artisan Village 25 minutes Hartwick Pines 35 minutes

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M arianne’s hamburger challenge

A burger lover’s search for the best burger in Northeast Michigan

Photos & story

By MARIANNE KUZIMSKI

special to The Guide

Ooey, gooey and Goudacheesy, loaded with mushrooms, onions and a bacon kicker, the Rascal Burger was stacked and d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!

north, and we already had to make an emergency stop for extra napkins at the Village Market here in town.

Climbing back in the truck I gave him one of those wifely looks meant to say, “Are you going to save me a bite?”

Kurt defended his actions.

VANDERBILT – You know that “This is the best burger I think I have ever had,” he said, mumbling around a expression a little kid gets when they’re huge mouthful of burger. caught doing something naughty? All How Kurt had determined the Rascal wide-eyed and innocent? That was the Burger was his, I’m not at all sure. But I look in Kurt’s eyes as he pulled the beefy Rascal Burger away from his lips. can tell you this: We will make a return The half-moon cradled in my husband’s trip to Rascal Jakk’s again soon when we have time to dine in, instead of hands was all that remained of the grabbing an order to go. burger, it’s shape matched his cheese Rascal Jakk’s was absolutely worth and mushroom smile. the drive.

Being a busy June weekend, we were short on time when I called in our order for two burgers and asked server Jodie Mastaw’s recommendations for their top sellers.

The Rascal Burger, topped Rascal Jakk’s Food & Spirits in Vanderbilt has built a with sauteed solid reputation for its excellent burgers. Not only are onions, mushrooms, bacon they loaded with toppings, they also come with a serving and topped with melted of home-made BBQ potato chips.

Gouda cheese sauce was the first suggestion. It sells We had just left Rascal Jakk’s Food for $7.99. & Spirits with a couple of burgers to Second on her list was the Roasted go and, traveling less than two miles Portabello Burger, this one topped The Guide • July 2014

with a roasted portabello mushroom cap, sauteed with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, smothered with grilled onions and melted Swiss cheese for $8.99.

All Rascal Jakk’s burgers come with a The Rascal Burger comes with sauteed onions, side of homemushrooms and bacon all topped with Gouda cheese made, seasoned mesquite sauce. Like all Rascal Jakk’s burgers its made of fresh BBQ potato chip, though beef from Dowker’s Meat Market in Gaylord. you can always substitute and d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s! Kurt gave me one fries or onions rings for additional cost.

Arriving early for our sandwiches of those big-eyed looks waiting for my gave us plenty of time to enjoy the response and I readily agreed: “Oh, Up-North decor and beautiful hardwood yeah. This is good.” floors before our order was ready.

If you love mushroom burgers, While there, Jodie made sure we you absolutely must try the burgers at were well taken care of and answered Rascal Jakk’s in Vanderbilt. But on a my questions with a smile. She said side note, I wouldn’t recommend getting that Rascal Jakk’s menu items were a Rascal Burger for the road unless you hand-crafted meals made from fresh have lots of napkins. ingredients – the meat bought fresh Rascal Jakk’s is located on Old U.S. from Dowker’s Meat Market & Deli 27, eight miles north of Gaylord, just in Gaylord. The menu items, Jodie south of Vanderbilt. The establishment said,would never be considered bar is only 2 years old so if you’re going to food. make the trip, be sure you call ahead to Disheartened that we were not check their hours of operation. I would able to stay and enjoy our meal, we hit sure hate for you to miss out on a great the road with the promising aroma of burger. gourmet hamburgers wafting through While you’re there, see if you can get the cab of the truck and a hearty, “Come Rascal Jakk’s owner, Gary Wagner, to back and see us again,” from Jodie. sing you a song. I hear he’s quite the Back on the road and restocked with entertainer. napkins, the sight of those two Rascal Jakk’s darlings practically overflowing —Marianne Kuzimski lives in Houghton with stacks of ingredients and crunchy Lake with her husband Kurt. Besides sides of fries and BBQ chips, had Kurt harboring a passion for photography, and I drooling in anticipation.

While Kurt had the Rascal Burger Marianne is a self-proclaimed foodie nearly devoured at that point, I lifted who enjoys a good burger. She gained the juicy Portabello Burger from its her pirate terminology from www. container and quickly determined that, PirateGlossary.com although this burger had great flavor, I wasn’t sure it was the best burger I’d ever had.

Then I took a bite of the Rascal Burger.

Ooey, gooey and Gouda-cheesy, loaded with mushrooms, onions and a bacon kicker, this burger was stacked www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

35

HIGHLAND LUMBER

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