The Guide - October/November 2015 by The Guide

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In this issue...

By Scott Nunn partner Autumn is now upon us. Most of the visitors have returned home, but don’t dare think we are done with you yet. Fall is a special time in Northeast Michigan. Our rolling hills and scenic tree lines make for excellent color

tours. We offered you tips last issue because it is always hard to say just when the leaves will make their change. At the end of this month’s calendar you will find a listing of orchards and pumpkin farms to hit up before the season draws completely to a close. There are also several fall festivals to hit up, if you are looking to get in the spirit. Do you think Geology Rocks? I do. Take a minute and check out that story and maybe you will learn how our landscape took form. You will find a few tried and true hot spots to hit up for Halloween within these pages as well. As a father with young children, I have found trunk-or-treats a perfect fit for our family. Trunk-or-treats happen all across the region, often put on by churches or other service organizations. If you are lucky you can find one that sells chili or hot dogs and you can snag some dinner at the same time. It’s a win-win if you ask me; the kids are happy

eyeing up the in-demand fields. How about Educational Excellence? Our sponsor, Industrial Arts Institute in Onaway, recently graduated their 3rd cohort of students and they are now on to educating the fourth. North Country History is back with a lesson on forest fires in Northeast Michigan, specifically the 1908 fire that consumed the village of Metz in Presque Isle County. Marianne returns to introduce you to a few of the wineries in Northeast Michigan in her new series Regional Fare: with Marianne Kuzimski. As you enjoy this issue take a moment to reﬂect back on the year, and if you find time, drop us a line to tell us some of your favorite stories that we have covered. You can always contact me by phone at (989) 245-7140 or by email at snunn@infonortheast.com

publisher

October/November 2015 Volume VI, Issue 7 Published by: Info Northeast

GUIDEFEATURES 10 12 16 18 20 22 24 26

and the parents aren’t having to get them in and out of the car dozens of times throughout the night. Now, this is Northeast Michigan, even for the traditional trick-or-treat you will notice an increased police presence in towns when the kids are afoot, reminding people to slow down and take it easy, for safety’s sake. No fall issue would be complete without mentioning the Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival. Northeast Michigan and our beautiful shorelines are home to several lighthouses open to the public for viewing, and some for exploring. Of course, we have some dynamite pieces from our partner organizations. Huron Pines AmeriCorps members take a look back; Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative does some tracking of the monarch butterﬂy, with the assistance of local schools; and NEMCOG’s partner organization, Michigan Works!, reminds us all of some of the excellent programs for students

Geology Rocks Halloween in Northeast Michigan Huron Pines AmeriCorps Monarch Watch Michigan Works! Iron Steals the Show North Country History: Tragedy in Metz - Wildﬁres Introducing Regional Fare with Marianne Kuzimski

This issue’s cover was taken by Lewiston resident, Gary Gee. An avid outdoorsman, Gee opted to set down his guns and hunt through a cameras lens. Gee is a board member of the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts where his work is displayed. You can contact him through his website at www.PhotographyUpNorth.com

Publisher: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 snunn@infonortheast.com

Editor: Mark Meyer Advertising manager: Jim Smith (989) 889-1295

Contributing writers: Rob Burg, Meaghan Gass, Marianne Kuzimski, Mark Meyer, Scott Nunn, Brandon Schroeder, Deanna Staton, Alicia Wallace Contributing photographers: Rob Burg, Gary Gee, Jim Jacoby, Marianne Kuzimski, Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn

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 • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

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Campfire Cookery, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Otsego County Library in Gaylord, gather around a campfire for a lesson on open fire cooking with Kathleen Lock. Info: (989) 7325841 or www.OtsegoCountyLibrary.org West Branch Annual Quilt Walk, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday in Downtown West Branch, benefiting Hospice of Helping Hands, over 200 quilts on Display, raffle quilt, quilting demonstrations along with vendors, door prizes and “sewing room” rummage sale; tickets are $5 and children under 16 are free. Info: (989) 345-2821 or www.WBACC.com Give Cancer the Boot at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, when you enjoy a treatment or spend more than $30 on retail items at Oasis you have the opportunity to nominate a cancer survivor or fighter for our daily giveaways or purchase a pink boot for $1 to benefit local cancer patients. Info: (989) 246-8000 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Houghton Lake Area Historical Society, continuing on Fridays, market features Michigan-made products such as plants, flowers, vegetables, homemade crafts and baked goods. Info: (989) 387-4221 or www.VisitHoughtonLake.com Judy and Her Suchey Brothers, 6 to 11 p.m. at Thunder Bay Arts Council in Alpena, celebrating Polish American Heritage Month while listening to Judy and Her Suchey brothers, food and drinks on sale during show, doors open at 6 with show beginning at 7:30; cost is $10 per adult and students are free with ID. Info: (989) 356-6678 or www.VisitAlpena.com Dark Minds Haunted Attractions, 7 to 11 p.m. in Alpena, one of the world’s longest haunted house walkthroughs, main attraction not appropriate for children under the age of 13, continuing through October with varying rates. Tickets and info: (989) 766-3007 or www.DarkMinds.org Forever Plaid, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, presented with permission of Music Theatre International, the “Plaids” are a guaranteed smash performing some of the great pop hits of the 1950’s. Tickets and info: (989) 354-2267 or www.VisitAlpena.com Comedy Infused Ultimate Date Night Tour, 7 p.m. at New Hope Church in East Tawas, entertainers Jay and Laura Laffoon will present a comedy infused date night helping

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couples learn how to create and regularly celebrate a thriving marriage while exploring the realities that every day life brings to the relationship; advance tickets $30 per couple or $35 per couple at the door. Info: (989) 984-5400 or www.Tawas.com Live Music – CP2, Live Music & Dancing in Hunter’s Grille at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, with CP2 the high energy dance band who knows how to get the party started! 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Featuring the all-new Michigan Menu. For more info: Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Halloween 3 Weekend at Yogi Bear Jellystone Park of Grayling, last fun-filled weekend of the season, Halloween games, arts and crafts, ride to pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, trick-ortreating Saturday and campsite decorating. Info: (989) 348-2157 or www.GraylingChamber.com Tanger Outlet Pink Style at Tanger Outlet Mall in West Branch, 25% off fundraiser for Breast Cancer. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.WBACC.com 3: Wine Tasting, noon to 4 p.m. at The Summit Grill at the Ridge in Gaylord, in addition to wine tasting there will also be various food stations including appetizer station, soup station, salad station, entrée station and dessert station. Info: (989) 705-9070 or www.GaylordChamber.com Fall Harvest Festival, 1 to 8 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling, campground trick or treating, campsite decorating contest, costume contest, hayrides, cider, donuts and bonfire and hayrides, event is for registered campers only; recreation passport required for entrance to park. Info: (989) 3487068 or www.MichiganDNR.com

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Grayling’s 8th Annual Harvest Festival, 3: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in downtown Grayling on Michigan Ave., tractor parade, farm market,

wagon rides, pony rides, food vendors, pumpkin painting, cookie decorating and clogging. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.GraylingChamber.com Fall Classic, 11 a.m. shotgun start at Forest Dunes Golf Club in Roscommon, four person scramble format includes 18 holes of golf with cart, use of practice facility, boxed lunch, buffet dinner, beer mug, prizes for the top three places, limited to the first 32 paid teams; cost is $119 per player. Info: (989) 2750700 or www.ForestDunesGolf.com Art Uncorked!, 6 p.m. at AuSable Artisan Village Gallery and Art Center in Grayling, Connie Sutika leads a step by step class on how to decorate a beautiful wine glass, enjoy wine from Valley Mist Vineyards, no experience necessary and all supplies provided, class for ages 18 and up; cost is $35 per person. Info: (517) 980-1177 or www.AAVArt.org Grayling Promotional Association Fall Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Grayling Elementary School, coinciding with Grayling’s Harvest Festival, lunch available; admission is $1. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.GraylingChamber.com Trek the Mighty Mack and Expo, St. Ignace, ATVs, Side-by-sides, and off road motorcycles will leave the staging area in Mackinaw City and trek across the Mackinac Bridge, thru downtown St. Ignace to Little Bear East Arena. Cost is $35.00 for ATV & Driver, $25 for each additional rider. Info: (800) 338-6660 or www.SaintIgnace.org French Canadian Heritage Day, Fort de Buade Museum, St. Ignace, a traditional soup luncheon from 11:30-1:00 p.m., featuring

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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.

guest speaker Mr. Jon Tremblay. Reservations are required, cost is $12 donation & all proceeds benefit the Fort de Buade Complex. Info and Reservations: (906) 643-6627 Paint & Sip Party, Treetops Resort in Gaylord, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., sign up as a group or solo, come as you are, enjoy some wine or something non-alcoholic and create some art. Cost is $40, and includes everything you needs to create a work of art. Info: (989) 731-8556 Wine Tasting at the Summit Grill, The Ridge Golf Course in Gaylord, enjoy a wine tasting and amazing food. To make reservations call (989) 705-9070 Roscommon Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at AuSable River Center in Roscommon, continuing Saturdays, fruits and vegetables, custom artwork, handcrafted jewelry, goat milk products, handmade soap, handcrafted quilts, handmade cards, organic growing supplies, herbs and specialty plants, natural bug spray and more. Info: (989) 2758010 or www.HLRCC.com Alpena’s Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. behind City Hall in Alpena, every Wednesday and Saturday, fresh produce, baked goods, plants, maple syrup, honey, flowers, grass fed beef and much more. Info: (989) 2559372 or www.VisitAlpena.com 9th Annual Zonta Walks for Women, 8:30 a.m. to noon at Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Alpena, registration forms available at Thunder Bay Accounting or the

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Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce; $15 entry fee per person. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Tawas Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gateway Park in Tawas City, continuing Saturdays through October, fresh vegetables, fruits and other goodies. (989) 362-8643 or www.GetItFresh.com West Branch Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on South 3rd Street in Downtown West Branch, continuing Saturdays through October 31, fresh produce and more. Info: (989) 345-0500 or www.WBACC.com Depot Days 5k Run/Walk, 10 a.m. in downtown Standish, all proceeds will benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, restrooms, water, fruit and granola bar provided, seven different age groups, race sign up is from 8 to 9:30 a.m. day of race; cost is $20 with race shirt or $15 without shirt. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org The Sunrise Side Quilt Celebration, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at AuGres-Sims High School, sponsored by the Wednesday Night Strippers Quilt Guild, guests will see quilts of various styles, vendors, demonstrations, drawings and a Chinese auction; $5 per person. (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Paint & Sip Party, an afternoon Paint & Sip Party with Carlene Lagrou, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Come as you are, your $40 fee covers everything you need to create a take-home work of art! Enjoy some wine or sip something N/A, (included in the cost). For more info: Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 10th Annual Depot Days, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Standish Depot

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and Welcome Center, Arenac County Historical Society scrapbooks, antique tractors, vendors, tours of our 1929 restored caboose and two English passenger cars, amusement rides, horse-drawn carriage rides, 5k run/walk, pie baking contest, chili cook-off, brownie baking contest, chicken noodle soup cook-off and more. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Gaylord Downtown Farmer’s Market, Downtown Gaylord, Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. thru Oct. 31. Info: (989) 732-4060 4th Annual Fall Harvest Fossil Fest, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan in Alpena, Alpena Antique Tractor Club will have old fashion equipment on display, pie eating contest, and bus tours to the local quarries and fossil hunting with Paleo Joe. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.BesserMuseum.org Alpena Community Read Author Visit, 6 to 8 p.m. at Alpena High School, State of Wonder by Ann Patchett. Tickets and info: (989) 356-6188 or www.AlpenaLibrary.org Pepsi Fall Charity Invitational, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, This 4-Person charity event that is now in it’s 28th year and benefits local charities. Entry fee includes 2 night’s lodging, 54 holes of golf, and 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 UFOs Over Michigan, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Iosco-Arenac District Library, featuring

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guest speaker Bill Konkolesky, State Director of the Michigan Chapter of the Mutual UFO Network discussing UFO phenomenon including sightings in Michigan, each program will have time for questions, light refreshments provided; free. Info: (989) 362-2651 or www.IoscoArenacLibrary.org Candlelight Vigil, 6:30 p.m. at Rogers City Lakeside Park Band Shell, sponsored by Rogers City Women’s Civic League, a candlelight vigil will be held for victims of domestic violence, toiletry items for Shelter Inc. will be accepted. Info: (989) 734-4983 Legacy on Glass Traveling Exhibit, 3 to 7 p.m. at Iosco County Historical Museum in East Tawas, exhibit explores the photography of Ard E. Richardson from 1892 to 1904 as well as sharing the technological barriers Mr. Emery had to overcome to create his photos of life in the farms, cities and landscapes of Iosco County; free public event. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Living with the Bears, 7 p.m. at Ye Olde Courthouse in Omer, light refreshments will be served; free. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org St. Joseph Rummage Sale, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday at Knights of Columbus Hall in West Branch, proceeds benefiting St. Joseph Catholic School. Info: (989) 345-0220 or www.WBACC.com 20th Annual Lighthouse Festival in Alpena, four day event providing activities for the young and old including lighthouse tours, entertainment and over 100 maritime related vendors including lighthouse preservation groups, artists, authors and more, main events occur at The Sanctuary

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Open 7 days a week Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Specials Drive ru Free WiFi! (989) 389-3731 1965 N. St. Helen Rd. St. Helen, MI www.

Inn and Conference Center in Alpena with many additional events throughout community from Tawas to Mackinaw. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.LightHouseFestival.org Cranberry Marsh Visitors Day, Michigan Cranberry Co. invites you to take a tour of the operation with rides through the farm, seeing the various stages of harvesting and processing the berries. During the tour guests will be able to get off the bus to take photos and sample cranberry products. Advance tickets are required, cost $10/person. Tickets: (231) 627-7183 Haunted Halloween Weekend at Harrisville State Park, activities include children’s games, site decorating contest, trick or treating for campground guests, haunted hayride and spooky haunted trail; recreation passport required to enter park. Info: (800) 44-PARKS or www.Michigan.gov/DNR Fort Fright at Michilimackinac, Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City, for these two nights the 18th century fort and fur trading village will be open from 6:30-9:00 p.m., featuring werewolves, witches, and other legendary characters. Admission is $20/family, or $7/adults, $4/5to-17 and four-and-under are free. Info: (231) 436-4100 Nunsensations, 7 p.m. with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee at Tawas Bay Players Playhouse in East Tawas, musical takes the sisters on a brand new adventure when a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sisters’ school if they perform in a club in Las Vegas, some adult humor. Tickets and info: (989) 362-8373 or www.TawasBayPlayhouse.com

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Heritage Route 23 Lake Huron Girl’s Night Out, 3 to 8 p.m. in Fall Harvest Festival, noon to 5 9-12: Discovery Tour, Standish to 10: downtown Grayling, wear your craziest 10: p.m. in Rose City, enjoy a trip to Rose Mackinaw, self-guided discovery tour with 80’s outfit and enter the Crazy 80’s contest, Valley Winery and Valley Mist, wagon rides, various attractions all the way up US 23 to Mackinaw City. Info: www.US23HeritageRoute.org Mackinaw City Fall Shoppers Festival, get special savings from shops around town before they close up for the season, enjoy the Straits Area hospitality, dining and fall colors. Info: (231) 436-5574 Elk’s Pumpkin Patch, noon to 3 p.m. at Gaylord’s Elk Lodge, offering a pumpkin, cider, donuts, hotdogs, hayrides, face painting, coloring contests and more for Gaylord area children. Info: (800) 345-8621 or www.GaylordChamber.com Dog-O-Ween, 3:30 to 6 p.m. in Downtown Gaylord Pavilion on Court Street, lots of activities for humans and dogs alike including costume contest, peanut butter licking contests, paw prints, face painting, crafts and bake sale; $10 per family. Info (989) 3509907 or www.GaylordChamber.com Farm Fun Day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Maxwell’s Pumpkin Farm in Beaverton, farm fun day is a great opportunity for families to learn more about how farmer’s keep their animals and the environment safe and healthy. Info: (989) 435-9249 or www.MaxwellPumpkinFarm.com Bockwurst Open, 11 a.m. shotgun start at Forest Dunes in Roscommon, four person scramble format includes 18 holes of golf with cart, use of practice facility, boxed lunch, buffet dinner, beer mug, prizes for the top three places, limited to the first 32 paid teams; cost is $119 per player. Info: (989) 2750700 or www.ForestDunesGolf.com

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stores will be offering refreshments, sales, entertainment, prizes and more, be sure to check in at registration table. Info: (989) 3487661 or www.GraylingChamber.com 7th Annual Fall Colors Bridge Race, Mackinaw City Rec Center, enjoy the views from the top of the Mackinac Bridge and all its fall splendor, this is only one of two annual chances to run the bridge, and Registration is required. Info: (231) 436-5664 or www.MackinawCity.com Antique Appraisal Clinic, Cheboygan County History Center, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., have your item professionally appraised by the experts of DuMouchelle Galleries of Detroit. Appointments are required. Info: (231) 627-9597 Fork, Cork, and Brew Barn Dance, Indian River, enjoy a farm to table dinner, drinks and dancing in a local barn. Info: (231) 238-9325 Apple Pumpkin Fun Day, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Antique Tractor Show Grounds in Alpena, kid’s games and prizes, horse drawn wagon rides, pumpkin painting, petting zoo, craft demonstration and apple cider pressing, barn dance to follow at 7 p.m.; admission to dance is $5 per person. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaAntiqueTractor.com October “Fall into Art” Festival, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tawas Bay Art Gallery in Tawas, gallery is hosting mini workstations for guests to try various forms of art media including water colors, alcohol inks as well as pen and ink; $5 per person includes art supplies. Info: (989) 362-2523 or www.Tawas.com

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wine tasting and more. Info: (989) 965-9399 or www.WBACC.com GLDS Toys for Kids Ride, 9 a.m. at Richfield Township Park in St. Helen, ride and enjoy the fall colors, street legal bikes only, camping is available at Richfield Township Campground which has direct ORV trail access; entry fee is a gift for the kids. Info: (989) 389-4961 or www.GLDSMC.org VFW Country Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon at VFW Post 4159 in Roscommon, menu includes eggs, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, pancakes, french toast, sausage, toast, coffee, tea and juice; cost is $7 for adults, children 10 and under are $4. Info: (989) 2754136 or www.HLRCC.com Farm2Fork Beer Dinner, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, This event is a hybrid of our popular Farm2Fork and our equally popular Beer Pairing Dinners taking place from 5 p.m.-9 p.m.. Farm2Fork is a unique culinary series at Treetops Resort which features locally grown and prepared dishes and the hands that brought them from seed to the table. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Family Fun Science Day, noon to 2 p.m. at Besser Museum in Alpena, hands-on science activities, most experiments suitable for children pre-k and up, planetarium show at 2 p.m.; cost is $3 per adult and $2 per child or senior. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org Exploring the Archives of Michigan, 2 to 3 p.m. at Otsego County Library, Kris Rzepczynski, State of Michigan Archivist, will talk about the research treasures waiting to

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be uncovered in the Archives of Michigan. Info: (989) 732-5841 or www.GaylordChamber.com Thicker than Water, 6:30 p.m. at Michaywe’ Clubhouse, the Michaywe’ Players present their eighth production a three act play titled “Thicker than water”, includes dinner and show, due to limited seating please purchase tickets in advance at Saturn Booksellers and Michaywe’ Office; cost is $25. Info: (989) 939-8034 or www.GaylordChamber.com Mikenauk Gem and Rock Club, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at CRAF Center in Roscommon, continuing the third Thursday of each month. Info: (989) 275-4975 or www.HLRCC.com Nunsensations, 7 p.m. with a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee at Tawas Bay Players Playhouse in East Tawas, musical takes the sisters on a brand new adventure when a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sisters’ school if they perform in a club in Las Vegas, some adult humor. Tickets and info: (989) 362-8373 or www.TawasBayPlayhouse.com Grand Ole Opry Tribute, Alpine Lodge in Gaylord, enjoy a dinner theater as you experience the greatest hits of the Opry, show times and ticket prices vary. Tickets and info: (989) 732-2431 or www.EXPGaylord.com Tawas Point Haunted Lighthouse Event at Tawas Point State Park, fun carnival games and prizes for kids, costumed characters, hayrides, spooky cemetery with interesting tombstones from the community, day and nighttime lighthouse tours; state rec passport required for entrance. Info: (989) 362-5041 or www.Tawas.com

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Karaoke Night, 9 p.m. to Midnight at Gaylord Bowling Center Blacklite Lounge, Jerry and Carey Oke will be playing your requests and join in Karaoke Roulette for a chance to win prizes. Info: (989) 732-3574 or www.BowlGaylord.com 2nd Annual Harvest Fest, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Downtown Gaylord Pavilion, kids activities include caramel apple making, pumpkin painting, harvest bowling, hay pile treasure hunt, trick or treat bag decorating and corn husk scare crow/doll making. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.GaylordChamber.com Laugh Riot Comedy Show, 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Gaylord Bowling Center Blacklite Lounge in Gaylord, inviting those ages 18 and up out for a night of comedy featuring comedians from Northern Michigan, food and drink specials available; no cover charge. Info: (989) 732-3574 or www.GaylordChamber.com Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters, 7 to 9 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts in Roscommon, Singer Lisa Rock and her 6-piece band are bringing the music of The Carpenters back to the stage with their spot-on renditions of Carpenters classics, also joining on stage will be the Roscommon High School Choir; cost is $32 for the upper level and $35 for lower level. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Art Uncorked! Flowers on Pallet Wood, 6 to 8 p.m. at AuSable Artisan Village Gallery and Art Center in Grayling, enjoy wine as Chris Sheldon shares her skills,

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no experience necessary, all supplies provided, must be 18 years old or older; cost is $35 per person. Info: (517) 980-1177 or www.AAVArt.org Three Men and a Tenor, Cheboygan Opera House, 7:30 p.m., Admission is $20/adults & $10/students. Tickets: (231) 627-5841 Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church on corner of Sage Lake Rd. and M-33 in Rose City, handcrafted items, refreshments, bake sale and more. Info: (989) 345-2821 or www.WBACC. com 4th Annual Fall Fun Fest, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Towne Club Party Store in West Branch, hay maze, face painting, hay ride, pony rides, donuts, coffee, apple cider, hot chocolate and bike raffle; bring non-perishable goods to be entered in bike raffle. Info: (989) 343-0855 or www.WBACC.com Art D’Vine 2015, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Art D’Vine 2015 is part of Treetops’ Culinary Adventure Series. The October 2015 “Fall into Photography”event will focus on photography. Guests will participate in a handson art workshop for 1.5 – 2 hours followed by a four course tasting paired with a Michigan vineyard: Leelanau Cellars. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Punkin-Chunkin, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, pitch pumpkins from a catapult and then shoot at them in flight with an apple cannon, pick pumpkins in the patch and have cider at the pavilion; cost is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 per student. Info: (989) 3485187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org

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Toughman/Princess 17-18: Scramble, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, This 3-Person, CASH scramble hosted by Treetops where the Jones Masterpiece will be set up extremely difficult for day 1 and the Smith Tradition extremely easy for day 2. Entry fee includes 36 holes of golf, 2 lunches, keg beer on course, automatic entry into skins and a donation to Bountiful Harvest. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Stories of Michigan’s Past at the Omer Courthouse, presented by Larry Massey, refreshments served; free. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Treetops Fall Pumpkin Paint & Sip Party, Treetops Resort in Gaylord, 5:30 p.m., a late afternoon Paint & Sip Party with Mary B. Come as you are, your $40 fee covers the pumpkin & everything you need to create a take-home work of art, enjoy some wine & snacks are included. Info: (989) 731-8556 Downtown Alpena Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in downtown Alpena, downtown stores will be passing out candy and trunk or treat will take place in parking lot behind City Hall, also haunted ship and treats at the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary, trunk or treat spots limited call to register. Info: (989) 354-8400 or www.VisitAlpena.com Jeep Creep at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, huge vendor row, tons of Jeeps, prize giveaways, drawings, trunk or treat, live music by Wil and Kat on Friday and Brenda Loomis Band on Saturday and much more. Info: (989) 246-8000 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Dark Minds Haunted Attractions Kid’s Section, 4

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to 6: 30 p.m. in Alpena, this weekend only kid’s a can enjoy a less scary version of haunted house. w Tickets and info: (989) 766-3007 or www.DarkMinds.org Crafts ‘n’ More Show, 9 a.m. to 3 E p.m. at St. Mary Cathredal in Gaylord, w annual craft show, vendors well, call to register. a Info: (989) 731-4476 or www.GaylordChamber. d com t w Fun Run for 2-1-1, 9 a.m. at the Millersburg Depot Regional Trailhead in downtown Millersburg, 5K Run or 1 mile walk; cost is $25 for ages 13 and up and $20 for P ages 5-12. Info: (989) 734-5287 or a www.OnawayCommunityChamber.com c Art Uncorked! Funky Bird on Canvas, c 6 to 8 p.m. at AuSable Artisan Village f 5 Gallery and Art Center in Grayling, have fun sipping wine while painting a canvas under the instruction of Terry Dickinson, no experience necessary, must be 18 years old or older; cost is Z $35 per person. Info: (517) 980-1177 or o www.AAVArt.org a The Great Pumpkin Roll & Trunk or I Treat, St. Ignace, purchase a rolling w pumpkin and race it down the hill towards a barrel for bragging rights with a Trunk or Treat to follow. Kids prizes for best, scariest and most A original costumes. Ride a hay wagon to the l haunted woods where games and music will p complete your fun. Info: (800) 338-6660 P I Fall into Fashion Luncheon and 4 Show, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Fresh Palate in Alpena, lunch with beverage and dessert, cash bar, fashions by Myer’s Fashions Etc. and proceeds to benefit the Zonta Club of Alpena, tickets available at Thunder Bay Accounting, Myer’s Fashions Etc. and The Fresh Palate; cost is $25 per person including lunch

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and show. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Fall Wine and Beer Tasting, 7 to 9 p.m. at Tawas Bay Beach Resort in East Tawas, sponsored by the Brew Krew guests will enjoy 30 wines, 12 craft beers and light appetizers; cost is $25 in advance, $30 at the door or $40 to receive private high end wine table with 6 tastes. Info: (989) 362-8730 or www.Tawas.com Punkin-Chunkin, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, pitch pumpkins from a catapult and then shoot at them in flight with an apple cannon, pick pumpkins in the patch and have cider at the pavilion; cost is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 per student. Info: (989) 3485187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Roscommon Zoo Boo, noon to 5 p.m. at Roscommon Zoo, come dressed in costume to enjoy trick or treating, games and prizes; cost is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, children and military. Info: (989) 275-4500 or www.RoscommonZoo.com Oktoberfest Dinner Dance, 2 to 9 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall in Alpena, music with the Norm Siess Band, pork loin dinner at 5:30, cash bar, tickets can be purchased in advance only at Jimmie Garant’s Party Store, Nieman’s Family Market and Perch’s IGA; cost per ticket is $12.50. Info: (989) 3544624 or www.VisitAlpena.com Dial M for Murder, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, classic murder mystery about a man who marries his wife for money and then looks to murder her for the same; varying dates and time. Tickets and info:

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(989) 354-2267 or www.VisitAlpena.com Trick or Treat, Downtown Cheboygan, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., children are invited to dress in their Halloween attire and trick-ortreat the downtown community. Participating businesses will have orange signs on display in the storefront windows. Main Street will be closed from State to Court during this time. Info: (231) 627-9931 SERRV Bazaar, 2 to 6 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Alpena, 41st annual sale of handcrafts and food items from producers around the world. Info: (989) 356-1795 or www.VisitAlpena.com Halloween at Northern Lights Arena, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Northern Lights Arena in Alpena, trick or treating and glow skating, many of the arena’s sponsors will be set up around rink 1 for indoor trick or treating and glow skating will take place in rink 2; admission applies for glow skating. Info: (989) 358-0652 or www.VisitAlpena.com Tanger Trick or Treat, 5 to 7 p.m. at Tanger Outlets in West Branch, while supplies last. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.HLRCC.com A Dozen Legends, 7 p.m. at Tawas Bay Players Playhouse in East Tawas, a musical tribute to country and pop, reservations accepted; tickets are $11 per person. Info: (989) 362-6419 or www.TawasBayPlayers.com Halloween Parade, 10 a.m. lineup at Rosati’s Market in Skidway Lake, parade runs from Skunk Hollow to Fat Boys, get a number and get in line, no registration required, trophies for the best of floats, peddle bike, dog costume, person walking, golf cart, small engine, antique and classic auto or motorcycle. Info: (989) 717-1051

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Kid’s Halloween Costume Party, 31: noon to 2 p.m. at Skidway Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, costume contest,

prizes, candy, games, pumpkin painting and refreshments, ages 1-12. Info: (989) 873-4150 Trunk of Treat, 6 to 8 p.m. at Rosati’s Market in Skidway Lake, sponsored by Cardinal Optimist Club of Skidway Lake, trophies for the best set up, if interested in passing out candy call. Info: (989) 578-8768 Halloween Party, Eat, Drinks & Be Scary! at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Costumes & Cocktails at the Wilderness Cabin from 7 p.m.-Midnight. Cost is $10 per person and includes hors d’oeuvres. There will be a cash bar, costume contest, live music, and a shuttle running every hour from Treetops Sports Bar to the Wilderness Cabin. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Halloween Bash, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Gaylord Bowling Center Blacklite Lounge, put on your spookiest costume and celebrate Halloween with four rock banks, costume contest; cost is $5 at the door for ages 18-20 and over 21 free. Info: (989) 732-3574 or www.GaylordChamber.com

Program to ensure every child has a Christmas, come and enjoy an evening of great silent auction items and wonderful food. Info: (989) 732-8929 or www.GaylordChamber.com Fall Sale, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Luther Community Manor in Alpena, arts and crafts, baked goods galore, Chinese raffle, Manor Café will be serving soup, pie and coffee. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Indoor Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Alpena Mall in Alpena, continuing Saturdays through April 2016, fresh produce, baked goods, plants, maple syrup, honey, flowers, grass fed beef and much more. Info: (989) 255-9372 or www.VisitAlpena.com Scrapbook Retreat at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, three day, two night retreat includes luxurious accommodations, one Oasis Spa service, welcome appetizers and wine sampling, sweet and salty snack bar, yogurt parfait breakfast bar, $40 credit at Riverwalk Grill, brightly lit and spacious work room and work tables with power strips, giveaways, vendors and shopping coupons; $280 plus tax per person. Info: (989) 246-8000 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Quota Club’s Trivia Night, 6 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall in East Tawas, test your trivia IQ at this annual team competition, register your team of 8 for this fun event. Info: (989) 362-8202 or www.Tawas.com 8th Annual Art-full Gathering, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Michaywe’ Clubhouse in Gaylord, public invited to attend art-full gather art show/sale, all are encouraged to bring healthy items for the Otsego County Food Pantry, part of the admission fee will also be donated; $3 per person. Info: (989) 370-1567 or www.GaylordChamber.com

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Dial M for Murder, 7:30 to 9:30 5-7: p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, classic murder mystery about a man

who marries his wife for money and then looks to murder her for the same; varying dates and time. Tickets and info: (989) 354-2267 or www.VisitAlpena.com Flavors of Christmas, 5 to 8 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant in Gaylord, an annual fundraiser for the Otsego County Holiday Giving

Northeast Michigan

Optimist Clubs Join one

Start one

Alpena • Rogers City St. Helen • West Branch

Chuck Snyder

Lieutenant Governor, Zone 1

(989) 942-6608 www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

Bikers 4 Kids-Christmas Fundraiser at 7: Camp Bar and Grill on M-30 in Gladwin, Christmas 4 kids serving Arenac, Ogemaw and

Gladwin counties, drawing to win a 2015 Polaris Ranger ETX UTV Side by Side; raffle tickets are $10 each, need not be present to win. Info: (989) 709-6813 or www.WBACC.com VFW Country Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon at VFW Post 4159 in Roscommon, menu includes eggs, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, pancakes, french toast, sausage, toast, coffee, tea and juice; cost is $7 for adults, children 10 and under are $4. Info: (989) 275-4136 or www.HLRCC.com Ladies Night Out – Chef Led Cooking Demo, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Enjoy an evening out with friends while trying new activities and learning new things! You can even drop your kids off at the Treetops Children Center beforehand. Our chef will walk you through the steps of putting together a delicious dinner from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Veteran’s Day Dinner, 11:30 a.m. at Tawas Elks Lodge in Tawas, veterans are welcome to stop in for a free thank you lunch. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.TawasElks.org Girls Night Out, Downtown Cheboygan, stop by the retail stores for food, fun and sales, plus spend money in participating stores for the chance to win a $500 gift basket. Info: (231) 627-9931 Family Fun Science Day, noon to 2 p.m. at Besser Museum in Alpena, hands-on science activities, most experiments suitable for children pre-k and up, planetarium show at 2 p.m.; cost is $ 3 per adult and $2 per child or senior. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org Dial M for Murder, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, classic murder mystery about a man who marries his wife for money and then looks to murder her for the same; varying dates and time. Tickets and info: (989) 354-2267 or www.VisitAlpena.com Fall Bazaar, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Mary’s of Michigan Standish Hospital Skilled Nursing Facility, handcrafted seasonal items and more, homemade soup and bread luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; $5 per person. Info: (989) 846-4521 or www.StMarysOfMichigan.org MOJO & The Bayou Gypsies, 7 to 9 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts in Roscommon, beat your feet to the Zydeco treat of the Bayou’s red hot beat when Mr. Mojo and his Bayou Gypsies bring Louisiana’s best music to the Kirtland Center;

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The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

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

cost is $29 for the upper level and $32 for lower level. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Craft Show, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Gaylord Evangelical Free Church in Gaylord. Info: (989) 732-1626 or www.GaylordNewLife.com “Northern Michigan’s Largest Buck Pole”, Pat & Gary’s Party Store in Indian River, Thousands of dollars in prizes to be giving away, enter your buck for a chance to win. Info: (231) 238-6776 Festival of Trees, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Grayling Mini Mall in Grayling, 50 trees are beautifully decorated by area businesses and given away in a raffle, purchase raffle tickets, choose your favorite tree and place ticket stub in corresponding container. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.GraylingChamber.com Mikenauk Gem and Rock Club, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at CRAF Center in Roscommon, continuing the third Thursday of each month. Info: (989) 275-4975 or www.HLRCC.com Paint and Sip, 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, includes two glasses of wine, snacks, Boutique Shopping Discounts and an Oasis Salon and Spa discount, painting is a snowman theme on a canvas measuring 14”x18”, limited space availability, option to spend the night also available at additional cost; $50 per person. Info: (989) 246-8000 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Crafty Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at TriPoint Church of God in Alpena, local vendors displaying arts and crafts, crafters wanted. Info: (989) 255-2083 or www.TriPointAlpena.com Season of Light Gala, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan in Alpena, door prizes, cash bar, and Hors d’oeuvres; tickets can be purchased at museum. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.BesserMuseum.org Treetops Comedy Night, Enjoy a laugh filled evening at Treetops from 8 p.m.-9:30 p.m. featuring comedians Bill Bushart and Zach Martina. Tickets are $15 if bought in advance or $20 at the door. There will be a cash bar and you must be 18 years or older to enter. For more info: visit Treetops. com or call (866) 985-9307

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Christmas Walk, 3 to 8 p.m. 22: in Grayling, businesses host entertainment, offer refreshments or set

up special Christmas displays and in-store specials along with a parade, carriage and trolley rides, Grayling High School band members playing throughout downtown, breakfast with Santa, live Disney “Frozen” performances and more. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.Grayling-MI.com Thanksgiving Dinner 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s of Michigan Standish Hospital, dinner is provided for those community members in need or anyone who may be celebrating the holiday alone; free. Info: (989) 846-4521 or www.StMarysOfMichigan.org Christmas in Indian River, Downtown Indian River, join us for delicious soup and hot dogs, pictures with Santa, story time & crafts with Mrs. Clause, and a beautiful Christmas Parade followed by the tree lighting. Info: (231) 238-9325 Santa at the Depot, 6:30 p.m. at the Standish Depot and Welcome Center, greet Santa at the Depot and talk about whether you’ve been naughty or nice while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies. Info: (989) 7183021 or www.StandishDepot.org

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Treetops Lights Spectacular, at 27: Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Kick off the holidays with a fun family event including

the annual Lighting of the Trees, Wagon rides, Elf on Stilts, Kid’s Crafts, a Gingerbread Man Decorating Contest, Photos with Santa, Toasty Bonfire, & Vendor Row inside Hunter’s Grille showcasing their handmade goods. This magical evening starts at 5 p.m. at the top of the hill. For more info: visit Treetops.com or call (866) 985-9307 Light Up The Season Weekend, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Alpena, various events throughout weekend including black Friday sales at select downtown stores, holiday parade, Light up a Life Tree lighting ceremony, live music, roasted chestnuts and cocoa following parade, and Santa visits. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Grease, 2 to 4 p.m. at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, the T-birds and Pink Ladies are making an appearance at the Thunder Bay Theatre, take a trip back to Rydell High to see all your favorite characters performing all of your favorite songs and relive one of the most popular movie musicals of all time. Tickets and info: (989) 3542267 or www.VisitAlpena.com

SOME SECRETS WERE MEANT TO BE SHARED!

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Celebrate the Fall Harvest Season! The Fruitful Orchard and Cider Mill, Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Gladwin, more than just an apple orchard, also featuring pumpkins and gourdes, hayrides, fresh bakery and more. Info: (989) 426-3971 or www. MichiganAppleOrchard.com Fleming Farm, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Gaylord, pumpkin patch, hay ride, corn maze and petting zoo. Info: (989) 272-3312 or www. facebook.com/FlemingFarm Knaebe’s Mmmunchy Krunchy Apple Farm, Thursday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Rogers City, in addition to apple cider and delicious baked goods offering horse drawn wagon ride and pony rides, barrel train ride, the Mac ‘n’ Squasher apple slingshot, farm animals and large playground. Info: (989) 7342567 or www.MmmunchyKrunchyAppleFarm.com Maxwell’s Pumpkin Farm, Monday through Saturday 9:30 – dusk and noon to dusk on Sunday, family friendly destination where you can enjoy a fall atmosphere while picking your favorite pumpkins and fall decorations, offering a wide variety of pumpkins, gourds and other harvest items, bring your camera; admission is free. Info: (989) 435-9249 or www.MaxwellPumpkinFarm.com The Wild Pumpkin, Monday through Friday 3 to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Beaverton, petting farm, wagon ride to pumpkin patch and corn maze, four mazes, playground, corn box and weekend face painting; admission is $5 per person. Info: (989) 941-9562 or www.TheWildPumpkin.com

ON MICHIGAN’S SUNRISE COAST

Tawas Point Haunted Lighthouse Weekend October 17 - 18

Featuring carnival games and prizes for kids, costumed characters, hayrides and a spooky cemetery. Take part in daytime and nightime lighthouse tours and end the evening with a Monster Bash Dance in the pavilion. Recreation Passport is required for entry.

Tawas Bay -

Your Gateway to Fall Colors Spanning Northeast Michigan’s busiest highway, Tawas is your gateway to fall colors. From here you can explore the nearby scenic AuSable River valley, the Sunrise Coast, or the forested hill country to the west and north. All three areas come alive with vibrant fall colors. 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.

www.TawasBay.com (877) To-Tawas

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Geology

OCKS!

By Scott Nunn The Guide

Northeast Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Great Lakes State. From the tree line north of M-61, travelers in this region are greeted with rolling hills, pristine waters, rich farmlands, and in some areas forests as far as the eye can see. These natural resources defined and grew our state. From the Great Lakes, allowing us shipping channels to the outside world, to forests enabling the lumber boom with profits larger than the California gold rush, and lest we forget the mining of calcite in Rogers City, essential in the steel industry. To fully appreciate the resources that generated income and assisted in the growth of industry around the world we need to understand the source of these resources. During the Paleozoic period, roughly 500 million to 350 million years ago, the North American Continent was covered in a shallow sea. The recession of this sea left us with an estimated 14,000 feet of sandstone, limestone, shale, salt, gypsum and coal. This provides us the gas producing formations, the Detroit salt formations, the limestone, and also the colonial corals that would become Petoskey stones upon fossilization. The Guide â&#x20AC;˘ O ctober/N ov ember 2015

Following the Paleozoic period was the Mesozoic Era, which included the widely recognized Jurassic period. In Michigan, not much is known about the Jurassic period because of the damage that occurred during the Ice Age. What we do know is iron-rich sandstones, shales and clays were left behind.

Later, during the Pleistocene period, approximately 2.5 million to 11,700 years ago, the Ice Age arrived and glacial ledges advanced and retreated several times. Each time, the advancing glaciers carved deep and wide basins forming the Great Lakes, and eventually

the landscape that you see today. It was this landscape that enticed William Houston to retire to Atlanta, Michigan, in 2005. Houston previously resided in the Ann Arbor area where he worked as a teacher and administrator for 40 years with the Van Buren Public Schools. Since the 1970s Bill had visited Northeast Michigan, and his drive for exploration and love for the area made Atlanta a logical fit. During his exploration Houston began to learn about the sinkholes in Northern Michigan. Because of the limestone bedrock, also known as a karst beneath Northeast Michigan, the gypsum strata amongst that bedrock, and the clay that inhibits a slow filtered drainage, water finds a path in the limestone dissolving the gypsum and eventually creating caverns beneath the surface. When these caverns collapse, sinkholes are formed. These sinkholes are scattered throughout Northern Michigan. In 2006 William Houston attended a workshop put on by Michigan Karst Conservancy. After volunteering at the monthly workshops doing trail maintenance, Bill fell into his role as a member on the Board of Trustees and later property manager, providing educational outreach, trail and property maintenance, and signage for the MKC. The Michigan Karst Conservancy, formed in 1983, is dedicated to the acquisition, management and protection of Michigan’s significant karst areas and features, as well as scientific study and conservation education. The non-profit MKC owns two preserves, The Fiborn Karst Preserve in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Thunder Bay Karst Preserve west of Alpena. They are also co-owners of Mystery Valley Karst Preserve and Nature Sanctuary, a unit

located in the Thunder Bay Preserve, with the Michigan Nature Association. Over 200 sinkholes are located mostly on private property in Northern Michigan. Thanks to the property ownership of the MKC and also the Department of Natural Resources, Northeast Michigan visitors still have the good fortune of being able to see and explore these sinkholes located on MKC lands. Speaking on the exploration of Northeast Michigan, Houston reminds us “They’re there. You’ll see them. You just have to slow down to see them.” To get to the Thunder Bay Karst Preserves you likely will be driving through the heart of Northeast Michigan’s elk country, one of the largest elk herds east of the Mississippi River and the northern range of the Kirtland’s warbler habitat. Because of the geographic formations that create these sinkholes, preservation and management is of utmost importance. In 1996, when MKC acquired the Bruski Sink, the hole was 85-feet deep. For years, as many sinkholes were, it was used as an illegal trash dump. In 1999 MKC began cleaning the trash from the sinkhole. Using a 75-ton crane over the course of several years, MKC volunteers managed to haul out everything from car bodies to rusting pails of chemicals, with the potential of water-table pollution. After all the work was completed the sinkhole is now 112-feet deep. Visiting the sinkholes is another thing to add to your bucket list. From fall through early spring is an excellent time to visit the sinkholes, when trees are barren from their leafy cover. When visiting sinkhole areas be sure to use caution, stay back from the edges to prevent erosion and accidents.

Michigan Karst Conservancy holds workshops from May thru October on the ﬁrst Saturday of the month with the exception of September, which is held on the second to avoid conﬂict with the Posen Potato Festival. Volunteers are always welcome and appreciated. For more information on the Michigan Karst Conservancy and for self-guided sinkhole tour information visit www.MichiganKarst.org. www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

Halloween in Northeast Michigan

domaci gallery

presents

With over 82 Michigan artists, Domaci Gallery is the perfect place to find hand-made, original gifts.

find fine art and fine crafts at domaci gallery, 169 N. 3rd, Rogers City 989.734.3035 The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

Halloween is a wonderful time to visit Northeast Michigan. Nearly every town in the region features a trunk-or-treat offering parents a convenient option while giving kids a wonderful trick-or-treating experience. We cannot forget the local haunted options like Terror at Tee Lake Resort in Lewiston, Scream in Wolverine, and of course Fort Fright at the Colonial Fort Mackinac. If you need help finding local Halloween attractions check out The Guideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Calendar of Events, or contact the Chambers of Commerce, Visitors Bureau in the town of your choosing or contact The Guide at (989) 245-7140 or snunn@infonortheast.com.

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Recommends

20th Annual

Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival October 8 thru 11, 2015

The Sanctuary Inn & Conference Center Alpena, MI Featuring: The main site of this year’s Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival will be The Sanctuary Inn and Conference Center of Alpena, with additional activities held in communities from Tawas to Mackinaw. Several lighthouses in Northeast Michigan will be open for aerial, boat and personal vehicle tours. If you’ve never climbed a Michigan lighthouse, this is the perfect time! Over 100 vendors from around the globe will be on-hand, including authors, nautical crafters, maritime artists and much more. Enjoy live entertainment, food, and fun activities for all ages. You don’t need to be a lighthouse buff to participate, but you may leave as one! For more info about local Lighthouse Festival activities contact your community Chamber of Commerce or Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. Info: www.LighthouseFestival.org

– Jim Jacoby is a professional photographer based in Livonia, Michigan. He and fellow photographer John Greenland of Rockford, Illinois, co-founded DeiLight, Inc., a ﬁne art landscape photography business dedicated to raising awareness of the beauty of Creation in the Great Lakes region. Jim’s work has been published globally in calendars, books and magazines and is featured in various galleries and private collections. Visit DeiLight at www.DeiLight.com or call (734) 658-5368.

Recommends

20th Annual

Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival October 8 thru 11, 2015

Nature Needs Your Help “In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous.”

Huron Pines AmeriCorps

~Aristotle By DEANNA STATON Huron Pines AmeriCorps member

 Visit our website at www.huronpines.org to see how you can contribute. Dona ons are tax deduc ble and are used to help us protect those “Up North” places you love, like  The Au Sable River,  The Lake Huron Coastline,  Pigeon River Country,  Saginaw Bay, and  all the places in between!

Huron Pines 4241 Old US 27 South, Suite 2, Gaylord, MI 49735 (989) 448 2293 info@huronpines.org Huron Pines is a 501(c)(3) nonprot organiza on and an equal opportunity provider

Eight years ago, the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program was conceived on a small scale mission with a goal of placing qualified individuals for a term of volunteer service with northern Michigan conservation organizations. Realizing the disconnect between job experience qualifications and opportunities available, the program capitalized on providing fieldwork and professional experience to provide members with a stronger base for future employment in conservation related careers. In 2007, the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program hosted 10 members serving in northern Michigan. Today the program has doubled in size and impact, now hosting 18 members at organizations across the state of Michigan, from Lansing to Marquette and everywhere in between. All across the state, Huron Pines Americorps members are engaging volunteers, educating adults and children, restoring miles of forests, lakes and streams and boosting Michigan’s conservation ethic. Huron Pines Executive Director Brad Jensen feels lucky to have been able to watch the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program take off over the years and to guide some of northern Michigan’s newest and brightest faces in the conservation field. “Eight years after the start of the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program, we see past members popping up just about everywhere as fulltime professional employees at conservation organizations across the state. These highly motivated college graduates are making a difference

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

both during their service, and undoubtedly afterwards as they pave their pathway to future conservation employment.” Through Huron Pines AmeriCorps, members are able to gain experience in their field of interest while committing their time to community and national service through a 10 month full-time term of service. A living stipend is provided along with an education award upon completion of the program to assist with repayment of federal student loans or further education expenses. Current Huron Pines AmeriCorps member Leighton King joined the program in January 2015 and has already acquired meaningful experience both in and out of the field to prepare her for a future career as an aquatic ecologist. King has previously completed a three month term of service with AmeriCorps through the Conservation Corps program in her home state of Minnesota and decided that a term of service with Huron Pines AmeriCorps would bring further opportunity for career enhancement. “I am gaining invaluable experience during my service with Huron Pines AmeriCorps which will help me accomplish my career goals down the road. I have been spending time in Northeast Michigan’s beautiful streams working on aquatic invasive species inventories, planning aquatic erosion volunteer events, sampling for macroinvertebrates and assisting landowners with stream restoration projects. My confidence in my abilities and knowledge about

Current Huron Pines AmeriCorps members celebrate a day of success after the annual Russ Mawby Signature Service Project held at the Otsego Environmental Learning Site in Gaylord, MI.

aquatic ecosystems has increased tenfold!” After completing her service, King plans to attend graduate school to study aquatic restoration and participate in research. Her temporary home in Gaylord, Michigan, has created a connection that she will carry with her. “The rich natural resources and friendly up-north people of northern Michigan are certainly things I will miss after I finish my term of service with Huron Pines AmeriCorps. Who knows—I may find my way back to Michigan in the future after graduate school!” Past Huron Pines AmeriCorps member Caitlyn Donnelly served as a Land Stewardship Technician at Little Traverse Conservancy in 2013. During her term of service, Donnelly gained experience in fieldwork through monitoring conservation easements, planning for large stewardship

projects on nature preserves, building trails and other infrastructure, writing preserve management plans and working with many volunteers. She describes the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program as a great skill-building and networking opportunity that allowed her to obtain a professional, fulltime position as a Land Protection and Stewardship Specialist at Little Traverse Conservancy. “Huron Pines AmeriCorps allowed me to showcase my passion and work ethic to my host site. After my service ended, I was immediately hired on as a full-time staff member, and I could not be more grateful!” Earlier in July, the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program was selected as the winner of the prestigious Governor’s Service Award for the Outstanding National Service Program category out of more than 20 AmeriCorps programs statewide. This award honors an extraordinary

national service program that yields a significant impact on its Michigan community. Governor Snyder shared his thoughts on this year’s Governor’s Service Award Finalists at the annual Governor Service Award banquet: “These programs have gone above and beyond, given selflessly of themselves, and made a difference in their communities. It is an honor to thank them for their service.” If you know a college graduate who is passionate about conserving Michigan’s natural resources and

would like to gain more experience in the conservation field, be sure to tell them about the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program which will begin recruiting this fall for 16 open positions starting service in January.

If you would like to learn more about the Huron Pines AmeriCorps program, contact AmeriCorps Coordinator Jennie Jandron at jennie@ huronpines.org or call (989) 448-2293 x30. Huron Pines, a 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization and equal opportunity employer with a mission to conserve the forests, lakes and streams of Northeast Michigan. For more information about our projects and how you can get involved in protecting them, visit www. huronpines.org.

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Monarch Watch:

Tracking Butterfly Migration By BRANDON SCHROEDER Michigan Sea Grant and MEAGHAN GASS Huron Pines AmeriCorps

Students have migrated back to school just as monarchs - in transition from caterpillar to butterfly - are also preparing for their long migration south. This timeframe presents a colorful opportunity to witness one of the world’s great migrations—that of the monarch butterfly. In Michigan, these widely recognized and beloved butterflies begin their roughly 3,000 mile journey south along the Great Lakes coastline to their wintering grounds in southern Mexico and Central America. Amazing to witness—these butterflies also offer educational, recreational and coastal community tourism benefits while speaking to the importance of protecting coastal habitats critical to these wildlife migrations. Each fall, monarch butterflies embark upon this great migration in order to roost over the winter since they cannot survive in colder climates. In the spring, they return to the north over the span of multiple generations of butterflies. Throughout the course of a year, there are usually three to four generations of monarchs with varying lifespans. Overwintering monarch butterflies live about eight to nine months while the summer generations only live about three to five weeks! In recent years, population levels for these ecologically invaluable pollinators have dropped immensely causing serious concern for both biologists and

butterfly lovers alike. To help monitor and track their migration, scientists are working with schools and community members to promote a citizen science tagging effort. This citizen science project, led by Monarch Watch, also offers a hands-on educational opportunity to learn about monarch butterfly habitats, life cycles, and migratory patterns— while contributing to science. Even the youngest citizens—such as school students across Northeast Michigan—are contributing to this environmental stewardship effort by monitoring monarchs and their local habitats in collaboration with this program. Partner to this important project, students mark butterflies using a very small identifying sticker and

then record data related to each butterfly. Following this tracking, the butterflies are released and they continue their migration to Mexico. When the marked butterflies are recaptured, scientists can learn a great deal about survival, population health

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

and migration patterns. Supported through the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative, local students from Au Gres-Sims, Alcona, Alpena, All Saints, and the Alcona Preschool co-op are contributing this fall by helping scientists track the migration of monarch butterﬂies. Budding young scientists of Alcona Elementary School are exploring their schoolyard for milkweed habitats for monarch caterpillars, which offer a fun and educational experience for students. A firsthand exploration of life cycles, they are tracking their caterpillars’ metamorphosis, or

NORTHEAST MICHIGAN Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative

Expanding Classrooms. Strengthening Communities.

transition into butterflies. Students tag and record data on each of their butterflies before releasing them into their schoolyard butterfly garden. The student-collected data will help Monarch Watch researchers monitor and study these local butterflies as they head south for the winter. In addition to helping monitor the migration of monarch butterflies, many schools started pollinator gardens that help support monarch habitats. Since monarch larvae’s only food source is milkweed plants, viable habitat is an important step in increasing monarch population levels. Several of these participating schools also engaged their students in creating and maintaining schoolyard wildflower gardens that provide essential monarch habitat. By including milkweed in pollinator gardens, these students help support monarchs with a reliable food source, and it allows them to personally see the life cycle of a butterfly on their school’s campus. Chasing butterflies or rearing them

in the classroom has been a fun way to start the school year this fall–also a great science learning experience. The data these youth are collecting will help Monarch Watch researchers monitor butterﬂy populations and track their migrations as they head south for the winter. Through this great project, students—and citizen scientists of all ages—learn how wildlife, habitat stewardship, and Great Lakes habitats are connected across the world through butterﬂies. To learn more about this place-based stewardship education project and how to bring this Monarch Watch opportunity to your classroom or community in partnership with the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative network – please visit www.nemiglsi.org.

Support

community-based education in Northeast Michigan. Visit www.NEMIGLSI.org today.

Protecting the Great Lakes and the Natural Resources of Northeast Michigan through hands-on, place-based education in and with the community.

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By ALICIA WALLACE Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium PR & Marketing Coordinator The logo looks familiar. You’ve seen it before. Perhaps you’ve even driven by one of their service centers, but you’re still not really sure what Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium (MW!) does or what they have to offer. For those seeking employment, Michigan Works! is one of Michigan’s most valuable and accessible resources. Whether you’re still in high school and new to the workforce or you’ve been recently laid off, all MW! services are FREE to the public and aim to help prepare you for your next career opportunity. Services may include: resume assistance, interview coaching, job search guidance, career fairs, paid tuition assistance, on-the-job training programs, adult education, information on childcare, Veteran services and more. Many job seekers have never created a resume, searched for a job online, or gone on an interview, and don’t know where to start. Some may want to change careers, but don’t know how to research career paths or pay for their needed 20

“Without the Michigan Works! grant, tuition costs would have prevented this path in my life.” -Matthew Kruskie

training/education. And for those who are recently or long-term unemployed, a lot of self-doubt can come into play. So, in addition to providing guidance and training, MW! staff offer support and encouragement to job seekers. Unlike an employment agency, Michigan Works! focuses not simply on filling positions, but on enhancing the workforce. Their free job preparedness services teach job seekers lifelong skills that help them search for jobs and get hired, rather than just telling them to “fill out an application.” MW! works with many job seekers looking to further their education by helping them obtain classroom training, get tuition assistance, and even get into on-thejob training programs to increase their skillsets and become more employable. MW! understands that a skilled workforce is an employable workforce, which benefits both job seekers and employers. Matthew Kruskie was in his last semester of completing the Utility Tech program and came to MW! for tuition assistance. MW! was able

to help Matthew with his tuition, books and fees, as well as with his rent while attending school, his mileage, and in getting his CDL. Now employed as an apprentice lineman, Matthew says, “Without the Michigan Works! grant, tuition costs would have prevented this path in my life.” Aspiring Respiratory Therapist Kimberly Sapp had a full-time job, but the costs of tuition, fees, and transportation/lodging during clinicals were more than she could afford. Worried she’d have to quit school, she came to MW! seeking

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

w r E s a o a r t c c a g a P m a s t ( e “ i

assistance. Since Kimberly was working towards a degree in an in-demand occupation, MW! was able to help her pay for her tuition, books and fees, as well as help pay for mileage, uniforms, hotel stays while at clinicals, and her exam fee. Typical college tuition isn’t the only way MW! can help further your career. They can also help with occupational certification. In fact, L ( 10 of the last 28 Industrial Arts Institute Comprehensive Industrial O Welding graduates received tuition G assistance and/or support services b (mileage reimbursement, etc.) with c

the help of MW! Michigan Works! also partners with employers to develop recruiting and retention policies. Employers turn to MW! to identify skilled candidates who are prepared and ready to succeed. MW! offers services such as online job advertisement, qualified applicant referrals, and employee recruitment to help employers fill positions with confidence. They also may offer career fair hosting, interview space, access to labor market information, government contracting assistance and more. A MW! Business Services Professional can help businesses meet their talent demands, as well as help them look into programs such as on-the-job training and the Skilled Trades Training Fund (STTF) - two programs every employer who likes the sound of “free training dollars” should look into. In the past two years, northeast Lower Michigan employers (including Moran Iron Works of Onaway, WG Benjey of Alpena, and Grayling Generating Station) have been awarded over $219,885 in competitive STTF grants to support

Helping communities achieve success

their training needs. Any private or nonprofit institution can apply. This year, $20 million will be available statewide beginning October 1. Regional employers are encouraged to talk with their local Michigan Works! to take advantage of this great training opportunity. Thanks to an STTF grant, Tube Fab/Roman Engineering of Afton, Mich., was able to train 49 employees advanced manufacturing skills to stay competitive. Since completion of that training, they’ve been able to hire 11 new employees and expect continued growth. Michigan Works! is an amazing community resource accessible to all. They help many people facing adversity, such as those trying to get off public assistance or recently unemployed, as well as those who are just entering the workforce or seeking training/tuition assistance. Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium services Alcona, Alpena, Cheboygan, Crawford, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle counties. To find your nearest Michigan Works! location, call 1-800-285-WORK.

For more information on NEMCOG, our partners or projects visit: www.NEMCOG.org

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proudly sponsors:

Educational Excellence

Iron Steals the Show

By MARK MEYER editor The Industrial Arts Institute (IAI), a division of Moran Iron Works (MIW), both of Onaway, Mich., recently held a graduation ceremony for its 3rd cohort of students from the Comprehensive Industrial Welding Course, CIW 100. On Friday, August 14, 2015, the 13 new graduates were honored for completing a 15-week course that included intensive hands-on training in welding and fabricating. A staff of Certiﬁed Welding Educators

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

trained the students in many facets of welding and fabricating, leading to all of the students graduating as certiﬁed welders. The graduates and attendees of the ceremony, held at the school in Onaway, Mich., were addressed by keynote speaker Lawrence (Larry) Beck ─ co-founder of Waste Management. President and founder of Moran Iron Works, Tom Moran, speaks very highly of Mr. Beck. Moran boasts, “Larry Beck has been a tireless leader in business starting in the early 1950s, and he continues to this day. Most know him for the generous contributions he has made to the communities of Northern Michigan, or as one of the founders of Waste

Management, but I know him as a mentor, trusted advisor, and one who understands the value of skilled tradespeople.” The 13 newly graduated and certiﬁed welders from this class are: Ryan Baker, Joseph Brushaber, Ryan Corbitt, Tyler Derosia, Chase Grifﬁn, Derrick Kelley, Adam Loar, Jerod Notestine, Grant Nowka, Michael Rocheleau, Brandon Thomas, Trevor Temple, and Hunter Stinger. IAI Executive Director Georgia Abbott stated, “A graduation is a celebration of the student’s accomplishments and achievements. These 13 IAI students have been transformed here. They have

AWARDS Special congratulations go to:

Hunter Stinger, for academic achievement; Chase Grifﬁn, for highest welding certiﬁcation achievement; Michael Rocheleau, for highest craftsmanship; and Jerod Notestine, for highest improvement and accomplishment.

developed stronger work ethic, become more disciplined, embraced their personal accountability for their future, become better critical thinking and problem solvers, and developed enthusiasm for the quest of knowledge and skill.” Abbott also states, “We are pleased to say that to-date our graduate’s number 43 and the ﬁrst two cohorts are now employed around the state of Michigan in 14 companies and 2 companies out of state! We are proud of our student’s successes and believe this is already a signiﬁcant legacy to the economic sustainability of Michigan and perhaps the United States of America.” It is clear that the new graduates have what it takes to lead successful and rewarding careers in welding and manufacturing, and they have the full support of IAI in securing future jobs. The success of this program is evident in the fact that another full class in the Comprehensive Industrial Welding Course has already begun, promising a bright future for the industry with leaders capable and more than willing to pursue it. To learn more about what Industrial Arts Institute has to offer, visit www.IAIWorks.com. For more about Moran Iron Works, visit www.MoranIronWorks.com.

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North Country History

with Rob Burg

Tragedy in Metz -

Wildfires

Forest fires have always been a part of Northeast Michigan. The 19th century lumber boom accelerated the cycle of fires and changed them from small fires that periodically cleaned the forest floor of debris and allowed for the regeneration of the forests, to conflagrations that destroyed forests and threatened human habitation and lives. During Michigan’s lumber boom, several of these devastating fires burned across Michigan. Most notable were the Great Fire of 1871, the 1881 Thumb Fire, and the 1908 Fire that destroyed the village of Metz in Presque Isle County. The cause of the fires can be attributed to man. When logging took place, the loggers harvested the prime logs and left the small stuff behind. These were the ‘slashings’ of small trees that were removed to get the big logs out; the tops of the trees, the branches, and anything else that was not wanted. This dry fuel was left on the forest floor - lying in wait for a lightning strike, alongside the logging railroad for an errant cinder from the locomotive’s smokestack, or burned by homesteading farmers. As the pine disappeared, the cutover lands were opened for homesteading. Many lumbermen formed land companies, such as the Michigan Home Colony

A forest burned by ﬁre. The dry slash that was left on the ground became the primary fuel for wildﬁres that swept through the forests after logging.

Company, and marketed the land as “improved” agricultural land. All the new farmers had to do was to burn off the slash that remained on the ground. 1908 was a very dry year. Fires burned throughout the state. Unless fires threatened settled areas, they were generally ignored. In September, a severe fire burned on Isle Royale, at the time a site of logging camps, fishing camps, and resorts. Rain late in the month led most to believe that the drought was over. However, the dry conditions returned by mid-October. A number of fires sprung up all over northern Michigan, including Presque Isle County. Fires were reported as far south as West Branch, north to

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

Cheboygan and west to Petoskey. Fires also burned in Chippewa County in the Upper Peninsula. Deward, on the Manistee River, was threatened with destruction, but it was Metz that would give its name to the fire. Fire struck Metz on October 15. The small town of Metz was a community of German and Polish immigrants involved in both farming and logging. While most of the pine had been cut, there were several operations cutting cedar poles, railroad ties, and hemlock bark for the tanneries. These were stacked along the railroad at places such as Nowicki’s Siding, awaiting shipment. The fire that destroyed Metz was the result of a brush fire that began near Millersburg,

The burned district of AuSable, 1911. The heat of the ﬁre warped the rails just like the 1908 Metz Fire did at Nowicki’s Siding.

more than 10 miles to the west. The ﬁre burned hot and fast. Most were able to escape or take refuge from the ﬂames that destroyed the town. St. Peter’s German Lutheran Church was destroyed, along with the Detroit

and Mackinac Railroad depot, the sawmill, homes, saloons, stores, the livery stable, and Nowicki’s Hotel. Two railroad men climbed into the water tank to escape the ﬂames. The only building in the village that

remained was St. Dominic’s Catholic Church. The best chance for survival was a relief train from Metz to Posen. Approximately 40 people boarded the train, including many in an open gondola car. The train proceeded to Posen until it reached Nowicki’s Siding, two miles away. The train met a wall of flame where the stacked cedar poles and railroad ties had ignited from the spreading wildfire. The intense heat warped the rails causing the train to derail. Some escaped, but 17 people, mostly women and children, perished in the fire. Numerous others were badly burned. Twenty-nine people in total

died as a result of the Metz Fire. It was not the deadliest of Michigan’s fires, or the largest, but the tragedy of the relief train immortalized the fire. Three years later in 1911, another wildfire claimed the twin towns of AuSable and Oscoda. This fire, along with the Metz fire, led to the birth of fire prevention in Michigan. While fires still burn in the state, none have since taken a toll as the Metz and AuSable-Oscoda fires did a century ago.

Learn more - www.NorthCountryHistory.com

A facsimile of Kiki Cuyler’s Hall of Fame plaque from the Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown, New York. -Photo courtesy of the Alcona District Library

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Already in the mood for wine tasting, one couldn’t help but feel the party atmosphere when entering The Silver Lining for a sample of Au Gres’ best. We walked into Modern Craft Winery’s West Branch tasting room to the sounds of wine glasses clinking as bridesmaids garbed in tiaras and silk sashes toasted their bride. Finding a spot in the tasting area, our own wine sampling started like all the rest of the traditional tasting rooms… with dry whites, then reds, and finishing with the sweet fruit varieties. Thinking we were all done, the fun really had just begun when owner of the Silver Lining, Samantha Fabbri, tutored us on the fabulous wine ﬂavors that can be developed by mixing the standards, or as Modern Craft Winery calls it, their “Mixology.” Daring to be different, the fun wine ﬂavors Modern Craft Winery concocts are a most enjoyable twist to the traditional wine tasting that you absolutely must experience at least once. The only regret is that we didn’t skip all the standards and start tasting at the Mixology from the very beginning. With approximately five years in the craft, Modern Craft Winery uses grapes from California, New York and Michigan. This winery will be one to watch as their tasting rooms spring up throughout the Northeast Michigan region. Located at 211 E Huron Road in Au

The Guide • O ctober/N ov ember 2015

Gres, Michigan, perhaps you will want to visit the winery yourself. Or if you’re not going to the Au Gres area, keep in mind that you can sample all of their wondrous concoctions in downtown West Branch at The Silver Lining, located at 224 W. Houghton Avenue, and in Harrisville, at 250 S. US-23. Northeast from West Branch we headed to Rose City to find two wineries off the beaten path. Stephanie and Becky were great fun at Rose Valley Winery making sure we had tasted all of our favorite ﬂavors, and then some. Nine years in the making under the patient hands of Adam and Nancy Kolodziejski, Rose Valley Winery has gone from purchasing grapes from across the United States to growing all of their own grapes in Hale, Michigan. What’s the big deal about Michigan grown grapes? According to MSU’s Horticulture Department, “Similar to the cool climates of Europe, such as Austria, Germany and Burgundy, wines produced in Michigan are found to be aromatic, clean, crisp, and often

balanced with impressive varietal character.” Aside from the technical mumbojumbo, I must interject that having tried Rose Valley Winery’s wine at its start with out-of-state grapes in comparison to now, with ALL Michigan made products, their wines are crisp and fresh with bold, delicious ﬂavor. With the help of vintner/chemist, Steven Ziolkowski, Rose Valley Winery has developed some wonderful white wines. Among them, Brianna was my favorite along with Lake Ogemaw, a sweet second, which was the 2015 gold winner in the Tawas Uncork’d Festival. In reds, Rose Valley Winery took the gold last year in Traverse City with Leon Millot and Loon Lake. Always popular are the ‘country wines’ at Rose Valley Winery. That’s wine talk for those sweet, fruit wines everybody loves so much. Made from everything that is Michigan, from fresh cranberries and cherries to blueberries and raspberries, they were so delicious it was hard to decide which to take home. And for the Port wine lover, you might like to try Rose Valley Winery’s Left Side of the Boat. Rich and fullbodied, it is most delicious with a hunk of your favorite dark chocolate, making it a great after dinner treat. Rose Valley Winery is located at 3039 Beechwood Road in Rose City, and is absolutely worth the visit. Not far from Rose Valley Winery you can teeter on over to Valley Mist Vineyard & Tasting Room, where you will enjoy a great visit with Brad and Laurie. Treating us as if we were part of the family, owner Brad Moore gave us the grand tour of his facility all the while making sure our glasses were always full with a taste of Valley Mist’s fresh brews. Having planted 1,500 French American grape varieties in 2008 on the land behind the tasting room, he and his wife, Elaine, decided to build the winery in 2010 after years of hobby wine making from wine kits. Since his wife’s passing, Brad has grown Valley Mist Vineyard into a sweet little tasting room where he experiments with all kinds of fermenting and mixing.

By blending wine juices from all over the world with fresh fruits from his own vineyard and across the Michigan region, Moore develops fresh, never experienced before ﬂavors. Add his quirky wine names and you won’t be able to hold yourself back from tasting every fun, delicious drop. From Gabriel’s Drool, a lovely mix of Cabernet Franc and ice wine displayed in a sideways tilting bottle, to The Swill of a Lonely Redneck Sailor, a Zinfandel and fresh strawberry blend that you won’t believe is swill of any kind. Personally, I cannot wait until Valley Mist’s coffee ﬂavored wine comes available in late fall. Valley Mist Vineyard is located at 2742 Townline Road in Rose City, and they now have a tasting room located in downtown Grayling at 223 W. Michigan Avenue. Now that I’ve whet your palate for a visit, mark your calendar for October 10th as both Rose City wineries celebrate together from noon until 5 p.m. at the 2015 Fall Harvest Festival. Hitch a ride on a horse drawn wagon to visit both wineries for only $5 and enjoy a pig roast, wine tasting and entertainment. Visiting Northeast Michigan wineries is not only a wonderful experience, but it also makes for a great group outing. Another reason you might enjoy going to a local winery is you will get fresher wine than you can purchase at the grocery store, and receive great discounts on your purchases. Don’t forget that every year the grapes are different, so the wine you loved last year might not be your favorite the following. And as your wine palate grows you will find that the more wine you drink, the more your tastes will change. That is why you have to return back year after year to our wonderful Michigan wineries… to discover what you like all over again. Cheers! And please remember to drink responsibly. Editor’s note: There are several wineries in Northeast Michigan. Rose Valley Winery, Valley Mist Vineyard & Modern Craft Winery are only a few. For more information contact us. www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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