The Guide - October/November 2014

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As always Marianne’s Hamburger Challenge plus TWO new continuing features.

The rest of the story

By Jerry Nunn editor As the Houghton Lake Foundation celebrates its 25th year, the group’s sponsors and volunteers can be proud of their reputation for environmental stewardship.

It’s a hard earned reputation that is every bit deserved.

The organization’s reputation was validated twice this year – first when HLF won the 2014 President’s Award for Small Organizations from the National

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Association of State Park Directors and again when HLF President Vicki Springstead shared the Michigan Inland Lakes Riparion of the Year Award with her husband Pat, president of the Higgins Lake Property Owner’s Association.

That later recognition came from the Michigan Lake and Stream Association and speaks to the pristine quality of Higgins Lake – high quality water that would not be possible without HLF. Too bad then, that a couple of cases of swimmer’s itch nearly tarnished Higgins Lake’s sterling reputation.

It started last summer when two young girls went wading in Higgins Lake and came down with swimmer’s itch.

Their mother posted a video about the experience to YouTube. As the video gained internet popularity newspapers picked up the story and applied it to lakes all across Northern Michigan.

Caused by a parasite that lives off snails and waterfowl before burrowing into unsuspecting swimmer’s skin to cause an itchy rash, swimmer’s itch can appear in just about any lake.

Unfortunately, by the time the media sensationalized this story, you’d have

been afraid to swim in any Northern Michigan waterway.

That’s the problem with one-sided news.

Where were those news reporters when HLF built one of the state’s first permanent lakeside boat wash facilities?

Now the facility’s design, along with HLF’s educational campaign to teach about the spread of invasive species, is in use at other lakes throughout Michigan including two other locations at Higgins Lake.

Or the green belt project and the effort to teach lakeshore homeowners the importance of a strip of natural vegetation as transition between lawn and lake. Un-manicured green belts clean storm water run-off, secures lakeside soil and provides a buffer between wildlife and human activity.

Where was the downstate press in 2012, when HLF launched their DASH Boat – the diver assisted suction harvester that vacuumed 12 tons of the invasive Eurasian watermilfoil from Higgins Lake last year.

And where were those downstate reporters when HLF teamed with the Higgins Lake Property Owners

GUIDEFEATURES 8 9 10 12 16 18 20 22 24 26

Hunting for a bargain Historic preservation: Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse Scream in Wolverine Roadkill Jack Five fun fall activities in Northeast Michigan Creative learning in the Ella White Woods Getting to know the expanded sanctuary Education excellence: Subliminal scholarship North Country History: Market Hunting in NE Michigan Marianne’s hamburger challenge: Clear Lake Bar

This issue’s cover photo was taken by Dee Gray. Avid photographer and Alcona County resident, she enjoys showcasing the beauty in all four seasons. You can contact Dee on her website at www.NorthernLivingPhotography.com or on Facebook at Northern Living Photography.

Association to form a swimmer’s itch task force in near-immediate response to their negative press? Those volunteers and experts who are seeking ways to deal more aggressively with swimmers itch.

Where was that downstate press?

Not in Northern Michigan.

Too bad. Better reporting could have paid off big for their downstate audiences in the way of bigger and better stories. Those stories confirm the hard work of the thousands of volunteers who toil relentlessly, protecting our resources all across Northeast Michigan so we and our friends from downstate can enjoy this pristine playground.

There are plenty of ways to deal with swimmer’s itch that don’t include cutting your vacation short.

Let’s hope that future news reports make that perfectly clear.

To learn more about Higgins Lake Foundation visit www.HigginsLake-Foundation.org To learn about swimmer’s itch, do a search at www.Michigan.gov/deq

October/November 2014 Volume V, Issue 7 Published by: Info Northeast Editor: Jerry Nunn, editor (989) 780-0900 jnunn@infonortheast.com

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

Contributing writers: Rob Burg, Jacob DeWitt, Marianne Kuzimski, Wayne Lusardi, Jerry Nunn, Claire Wood Contributing photographers: Ken DeMar, Gary Gee, Dee Gray, Marianne Kuzimski, Gary Nelkie, Jerry 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 • October/November 2014

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Tee Lake Drive-Thru Haunt and Haunted House, dusk until 10 p.m. at Tee Lake Resort in Lewiston, self-guided driving tour through haunted displays glowing nightly, hear creepy music while driving through, park and walk the displays, haunted house only available Oct. 25 and Nov. 1, ages 12 years and up; haunt has no cost, $5 for haunted house. Info: (989) 7862208 or www.TerrorAtTeeLake.com Juried Fine Art Exhibit, Tues. through Fri. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sat. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gaylord Area Council for the Arts, runs through November 1, juried exhibit of fine art from Northern Michigan Artists. Info: (989) 732-3242 or www.GaylordArts.org 30th Annual Hospice of Helping Hands Quilt Walk, start at West Branch Library, over 200 quilts on display, raffle quilt, quilting demonstrations and sewing room sale; $5 person or $10 per family. Info: (989) 685-8918 or www.WBRMC.com Cheating Cheaters, at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, Thurs. through Sat. at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., a funny and warm-hearted play about two sisters who impersonate begging nuns to put their niece through art school; cost is $15, $13 active military and $8 under 18. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com The Power of Three,with Lisa M. Dietlin, 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. at Alpena Community College, whether finding a new

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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.

job, losing weight or getting a promotion Lisa’s new book The Power of Three will teach about utilizing the power of three and achieve goals, please rsvp; $10 and includes breakfast. Info: (989) 358-7359 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Corkscrews and Canvas, 6 to 8 p.m. at Art in the Loft in Alpena, students will be directed step by step in the creation of your very own painted masterpiece, supplies included, ages 21 and up; cost is $35. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org 11th Annual Halloween Festival, 5 p.m. at South Higgins Lake State Park, hayride, a haunted forest, costume ball, best decorated campsite, a pumpkin painting contest along with prizes for best costumes, bring your own pumpkin and decorations, Saturday’s events for campers only; recreation pass required for entrance into park.

Info: (989) 821-6374 or www.Michigan.gov Reflection in Patchwork Quilt Show at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, over 200 quilts, both traditional and artistic, vendor mall, quilter’s boutique, quilt raffles, and bucket raffle and more, gifts to first 700 attendees and a chance at over 100 door prizes; $6 or $5 with a nonperishable food item.

Info: (248) 887-3127 or www.GaylordChamber.com Forest of Fear, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 1316 S. Stephen Bridge Rd.

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in Grayling, continuing Fri. and Sat. through October, a haunted trail walk for the brave of heart; $5 per person. Info: (989) 390-6241 or www.GraylingChamber.com Halloween 3:The Great Pumpkin Patch Weekend, at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Grayling, harvest fun weekend with crafts, games, a ride aboard the Pumpkin Express followed by pumpkin painting, campsite decorating, and trick or treating. Info: (989) 348-2157 or www.GraylingJellystone.com Fall Tree Sale and Stump Jumper, 9 a.m. to p.m. at Skyline Event Center in Comins, formerly the Michigan Magazine Museum, vendors and door prizes. Info: (989) 826-8824 or www.OscodaCountyMi.org Rivertown 5k Rainbow Run, 9 a.m. at Washington Park in Cheboygan, Finish Line Finale Color Throw; $25 for 5k and 1 mile and includes t-shirt and color pack or $80 for a team of four, children 12 and under are free and will only recieve t-shirt. Info: (231) 622-9924 or www.Cheboygan.com Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church in Cheboygan, arts and craft show. Info: (231) 537-0015 or www.Cheboygan.com Oscoda Lions Club 14th Annual Fall Festival Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Oscoda High School, vendors and chain saw carvers sought. Info: (989) 254-2905 or www.OscodaChamber.com 6th Annual Earleen Fox Memorial 5K Walk/Run, Diebold Insurance in West Branch, promoting breast cancer awareness;

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www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

Info: (989) 685-2552 orwww.WBACC.com 8th Annual Zonta Walks for Women, runners at 9:30 a.m., walkers at 10 a.m. from Fletcher Street Brewing Company in Alpena, along the Thunder Bay River in downtown Alpena; $15. Info: (989) 727-3017 or www.AlpenaZonta.com Oktoberfest 2014, 10 a.m. at Indian River Golf Club, shot gun scramble followed by craft beer and German style lunch, 18 holes of golf with cart, 4 craft beers and lunch; $52 members, $70 nonmembers. Info: (231) 238-7011 or www.IndianRiverGolfClub.com Julie Lawson Timmer Author Event, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Saturn Booksellers in Gaylord, stop in and get your books signed. Info: (989) 732-8899 or www.GaylordChamber.com 3rd Annual Fall Harvest Fossil Fest, noon to 4 p.m. at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan in Alpena; free. Info: (989) 356-2202 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Red, White and Blue Review, 5:30 to 10 p.m. at Alpena CRTC in Alpena, tickets available at Alpena Chamber and include entrance to show, dinner, cash bar and an entertaining evening of variety show; $20. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Fall Harvest Festival, 6 to 8 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling, Halloween-themed celebration will feature all sorts of fun activities for campers, join the fun in campsite decorating, trick or treating for the kids, hay rides and more. Info: (989) 348-5293 or www.Michigan.gov

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Standish Depot Days, with chili cookoff, pie baking contest, raffles, brownie baking contest, chicken soup cook off, petting zoo and dj entertainment. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Fernelius Auto Group Annual Harvest Festival Weekend, at Aloha State Park in Cheboygan, kid’s activities starting at noon, chili cook-off and, trick or treating and a site decorating contest; state recreation pass required for entrance. Info: (231) 625-2522 or www.Michigan.gov Autumn Apple Days in downtown St. Ignace, games and activities, snacks, hay rides, and much more. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Applefest and Antique Show, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brush Creek Mill in Hillman, homemade apple dumplings served hot with caramel sauce and ice cream, pumpkins, squash and cider, concession stand, t-shirts and antique show and sale. Info: (989) 742-2527 or www.BrushCreekMill.com Depot Days, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Standish Historic Depot, with vendors, Arenac Historical Society and much more. Info: (989) 718-3021 Michigan Harvest Gathering, St. Marys of Michigan Standish Hospital, collecting of nonperishable food items to be given to local food pantries. Info: (989) 846-4521 HisLove Walk for Families, 3 to 5 p.m. at Oscoda County Fairgrounds, prizes for top walkers raising the most money will be

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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.

a family canoe trip for the Luzerne Express, a pizza party and a gift certificate from the Family Bookshelf, games for kids before and after the walk along with donuts and cider for everyone.

Info: (989) 826-5817 or www.HisLoveMio.org Foster Care Orientation, a noobligation discussion held 6-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at Wellspring Lutheran Services in Gaylord. Info: (989) 7321040 Grant Writing, 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Alpena Community College, Room #106 in Alpena, master the skills of executing successful grant applications for any organization, please register prior to event; cost is $100. Info: (989) 358-7271 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Field Trip to the Moon Part III, 5:30 to 7:45 a.m. at Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, event timed to the peak of the Total Lunar Eclipse. Info: (231) 838-8181 or www.EmmetCounty.org 2014 Nash Dash 5k Family Fun Wog, 4 p.m. at Saint Joseph Health Systems Surgery Center Healing Garden in Tawas, in remembrance of Nash Schupbach, walk or jog to support parents and families for this special remembrance event; $30 for adults, $20 students ages 5 to 18, kids 4 and under free, those unavailable to attend are asked to consider an $8 donation to puchase a HALO

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SleepSack for newborn care. Info: (989) 3629755 or www.Tawas.com Kurt Kolka Author Event, 6 to 8 p.m. at Saturn Booksellers in Gaylord, congratulate Gaylord’s own Kurt Kolka and celebrate the launch of “Bullying is no Laughing Matter”, a graphic novel about the dangers of bullying; cost is $5 and can be redeemed towards any purchase. Info: (989) 732-8899 or www.SaturnBookSellers.com 19th Annual Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival, APLEX Event Center in Alpena, providing activities for young and old including lighthouse tours, entertainment, and vendors, lighthouses from Tawas to Mackinaw will be open for tours and visits. Info: (989) 354-6164 or www.LighthouseFestival.org Michigan Cranberry Company Tours, 8:30 a.m. at Michigan Cranberry Company in Cheboygan, tours will run every two hours until 2:30 p.m. and consists of riding through the cranberry farm and seeing the various stages of harvesting and processing the berries, guests will be allowed off bus for photographs and to sample the cranberry products, fresh cranberries will also be available for purchase, tours depart from the bus garage behind high school and leave promptly at their schedule time, advance ticket sales only; $5 per person. Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.MichiganCranberry.us Lighted Runway Fun Run/Walk, 6 p.m. at Alpena County Regional Airport in Alpena, come join the fun and help support a great cause, all proceeds will help

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Hen House Restaurant

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..eHenHouseRestaurant.com The Guide • October/November 2014

support the Alpena CRTC families; cost to preregister is $20 for adults and $10 for kids or $25 adults and $15 kids day of. Info: (989) 354-6583 or www.AlpenaCVB.com 13th Annual Night at the Lighthouse, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at 40 Mile Lighthouse on US 23 7 miles north of Roger’s City, featuring The Huron Shores Barbershop Chorus follower by an acoustic jam, bring an acoustic instrument and join in, wander lantern-lit pathways leading to the lighthouse decorated in vintage Christmas finery, the calcite pilot house, bunkhouse gift shop and enjoy complementary hot spiced cider, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies at the fog signal building; free admission.

Info: (989) 734-4587 or www.40MilePointLighthouse.org Merry Christmas, Dear Grandpa, 7 p.m. on Thurs., Fri. and Sat. with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday at Tawas Bay Playhouse in East Tawas, continuing October 16 through 19, comedy by Michal Jacot, produced by special arrangement with Eldridge Plays and Musicals; $40 for season tickets or $11 for individual tickets. Info: (989) 362-8373 or www.TawasBayPlayers.com Fort Fright, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City, Colonial Michilimackinac will be transformed into a haunted habitat where werewolves, witches and other legendary characters roam; admission is $20 for family, $7 for adults, $4 youth 5-17 and children 4 and under are free. Info: (231) 436-4100 or www.MackinacParks.com

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37th Annual Fall Shoppers Festival, in downtown Mackinaw City, enjoy the fall colors, great fall sales and drawings for cash prizes.

Info: (231) 436-5664 or www.MackinawCity.com Fall Colors Bridge Race, across the Mackinac Bridge, final registration October 8, includes race across bridge, t-shirt, ChronoTrack disposable B-tag timing device, official race T-shirt, commemorative medal, transportation to starting area and hot breakfast, 12 categories in men and women divisions, $50 in advance or $60 day of. Info: (231) 436-5664 or www.MackinawCity.com Apple Pumpkin Fun Day, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Alpena Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Club, kid’s games and prizes, horse drawn wagon rides, pumpkin painting, petting zoo, craft demonstration and apple cider pressing, barn dance with live music by Phoenix following at 7 p.m.; no admission fee for Fun Day but $5 admission to barn dance. Info: (989) 358-0380 or www.AlpenaCVB.com 6th Annual Fall Colors Bridge Race, 7 a.m. at Mackinaw City Recreation Center, one of the two chances to run across the Mighty Mac, race begins in St. Ignace at Bridgeview Park and will end at the Mackinaw City High School located next to race headquarters, transportation from Mackinaw City to starting line is provided; registration is $45 before September 1, $50 until day of and onsite registration is $60. Info: (231) 436-5664 or www.MackinawCity.com

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Rose City/Lupton Pumpkin Bash, and 5k Run/Walk, 8:30 a.m. at Rose City Park, with park events starting at 10 a.m., pumpkin roll, pumpkin chuckin, tug-a-war, pumpkin carving/painting, costume contest, greased pig and much more, 5k registration starts at 7:30 am. in pavilion; 5k cost is $25.

Info: (941) 468-3244 Chowder Cook-Off, noon to 3 p.m. in downtown Alpena, competitors can be professional or your next door foodie extraordinaire; cost to compete is $25 and taste tickets are $10 for 12 chowder tastes. Info: (989) 356-6422 or www.AlpenaDownTown.com Recycle Alpena, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lincoln ARA site. Info: (989) 724-6546 Critters in the Moonlight, 5 to 8:15 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling, an educational program where you will meet the critters of the forest and learn some interesting facts, jack-o-lanterns and lanterns will light the trail, crafts and games for kids; recreation pass needed to enter park. Info: (989) 348-5293 or www.Michigan.gov 2nd Annual Haunted Halloween Weekend at Harrisville State Park, weekend activities include children’s games, a site decorating contest and trick-ortreating for campground guests, a haunted hayride and a spooky haunted trail; recreation pass is required for entry. Info: (989) 724-5126 Girl’s Night Out, 4-8 p.m. in downtown Grayling, with food, drinks and shopping along Grayling’s main street and around town. Info: (989) 348-2921

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Leadership Lunch Bites-How to Do More with Less, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Alpena Community College in the Newport Center, join a candid productive, creative discussion about how to improve energy and efficiently manage our workloads, lunch included; cost is $30. Info: (989) 358-7271 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Piecing Memories Together, 6 to 8 p.m. at 2078 M-32 West in Alpena, participants will have the opportunity to share and learn with others experiencing grief and make a remembrance bear from an article of their loved one’s clothing, fee and sewing experience not required. (800) 664-8587 Representative Bruce Rendon Local Office Hours, 9 to 10 a.m. at West Branch Chamber of Commerce, Representative Rendon will be available to answer any questions, comments or address concerns. Info: (989) 345-2821 or www.WBACC.com The Hero’s Meteor Shower, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Headland’s International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, Orion and Osiris are both supposed to be able to be viewed. Info: (231) 838-8181 or www.EmmetCounty.org Haunted Lighthouse Weekend at Tawas Point State Park, lighthouse tours, campsite decorating, trick or treating for campers, pumpkin painting, corn husk doll making, kid’s activities and games, hayrides and concessions; recreation pass required for park entrance. Info: (989) 362-5041 or www.Michigan.gov

www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

Community Mural Fish Workshops, 9 a.m. to noon at Art in the Loft in Alpena, come join Tony Hendrick the creator of the Mural of Hope in the painting of the winning fish selections, the winning fish will be replicated into approximately 4’x8’ renderings by you and later attached to the 30’x60’ mural, all ages welcome; $25. Info: (989) 356-4877 or www.ArtInTheLoft.org Cheboygan Area Arts Council Concert Series Presents “Storm”, 7:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Opera House in Cheboygan, dive into Michigan’s Maritime past with the first show in the concert series; $20 adults or $10 students. Info: (231) 627-5432 or www.TheOperaHouse.org The Magic of Bill Blagg, 7 p.m. at Kirtland Center for Performing Arts, an action packed evening of grand scale magic will be presented, come dressed for Haunted Trick or Treat Costume Contest. Info: (989) 2756777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Fun Fest & Food Drive, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Towne Club Party Store in West Branch, featuring halloween maze, face painting, hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, and more; event is free but donations for food pantry encouraged. Info: (989) 343-0855 12th Annual Pigs ‘n Heat benefit hockey game, 5 to 7 p.m. at Northern Lights Arena in Alpena, police and firemen will take the ice to raise proceeds to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeast Michigan; free. Info: www.AlconaReview.com

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Punkin’ Chunkin’, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, a depression era interpretive farm with period demonstrations; $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for seniors, active military and youth. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Beryle’s Bowling Bash, 2 to 4 p.m. at Thunder Bowl Lanes in Alpena, put together a team of 4 or 5 people to bowl for Hospice of Michigan, family friendly event featuring bowling, raffles, prizes and awards, the money you raise will be used as your handicap to finalize scores; $10 per person. Info: (989) 471-2704 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Alpena Reads- The Simple Truth

by Philip Levine, 7 p.m. at Alpena High School Auditorium in Alpena, tickets available in advance at the Alpena County Library; $10 per person. Info: (989) 356-6188 or www.AlpenaLibrary.org Reinventing Mi Retirement, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in multiple locations including Alpena’s George N. Fletcher Memorial Library and Forward Conference Center in West Branch, a non-commercial presentation featuring guest speakers, workshops, 1-on1 financial checkups, free breakfast and lunch, a resource fair and a 100-page toolkit for resources, designed for ages 50-and-over or their caregivers; attendance is free, registration

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requested. Info: (877) 99-6442 or www.Michigan.gov/ReinventRetirement Sunrise Side Arts and Culture Summit, 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan in Alpena, Michigan Arts and Culture Northeast is please to sponsor this summit in order to bring the arts and cultural community of Northeast Michigan together for dialogue and discussion about our mutual interests in promoting the arts, culture, history and humanities of our respective communities and the region at large. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Piecing Memories Together, 6 to 8 p.m. at 2078 M-32 West in Alpena, participants will have the opportunity to share and learn with others experiencing grief and make a remembrance bear from an article of their loved one’s clothing, fee and sewing experience not required. (800) 664-8587 Fall Spooktacular Crop and Shop at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, one to four day scrapbooking event, offering full table crop space, registration opening soon. Info: (810) 287-7711 or www.GreatScrapbookEvents.com 1st Annual Parade of Baskets, 4 to 9 p.m. at Cheboygan Armory in Cheboygan, businesses and private individuals have pledged baskets to be auctioned, admission includes fish fry dinner and ten auction entries; $15, additional auction entries $1 per entry or 15 for $10. Info: (231) 627-7234 or www.3COA.com Trick or Treating, 5 to 7 p.m. in downtown Alpena, in addition to

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stores handing out treats trunk or treat is also back. Info: (989) 356-6422 or www.AlpenaCVB.com 2014 Jeep Creep, at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, various weekend events including mummy challenge, kid’s coloring station, trunk or treat, jeep creep parade, live music with Wil and Kat and much more, jeeps only; $10 per jeep. Info: (989) 246-9140 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. behind City Hall in Alpena, this will be the last outdoor Farmer’s Market of the season. Info: (989) 255-9372 or www.

AlpenaCVB.com 11th Annual Trunk or Treat, 6 to 8 p.m. behind Quality Inn and Big Boy in St. Ignace, $100 first place, kid’s prizes for best, scariest and most original costume, ride the hay wagon to the Haunted Woods Walk, games also held on the hill behind St. Ignace Big Boy. Info: (906) 643-9700 or www.StIgnace. com Sixth Annual Headland’s Challenge, 8 to 10 p.m. at Headland’s International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, park your car, turn off the lights and head off down a one mile, dimly lighted path through old forest growth. Info: (231) 8388181 or www.EmmetCounty.org Punkin’ Chunkin’, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, a depression era interpretive farm with period demonstrations; $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for seniors, active

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military and youth. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Gaylord Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. under the pavilion in Gaylord, last day to get fresh flowers, fruit, veggies, baked good and much more. Info: (989) 7324060 or www.ShopDowntownGaylord.com Piecing Memories Together, 6 to 8 p.m. at Hospice of the Sunrise Shore Vitalcare, participants will have the opportunity to share and learn with others experiencing grief and make a remembrance bear from an article of their loved one’s clothing, fee and sewing experience not required. (800) 664-8587 Nunsense: Jamboree, runs through Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m. Thurs. through Sat. with 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, The Little Sisters of Hoboken are on their way back to Alpena with the third Nunsense Chapter where Sister Mary Amnesia has regained her memory and desire to be a country singer; $15 per adults, $13 active military and $8 youth. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com

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Trunk or Treat, 4 to 8 p.m. in Gaylord, trunk or treat for community. Info: (989) 732-5676 or www.GaylordChamber.com Tanger Trick or Treat, 5 to 7 p.m. at Tanger Outlets in West Branch, trick or treating will be taking place while supplies last. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.Com Trunk or Treat, 5 to 7 p.m. at Lewiston School Bus Garage, sponsored by Lewiston Lawn Services. Info: (989) 786-2293 or www.LewistonChamber.com A Christmas Carol in the U.P. Yah Sure, Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinee at 2 p.m., continuing through November 2 and November 7-9 at Roger’s City Community Theatre; tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $6 for students. Info: (989) 306-3951 or www.RogersCity.com

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7th Annual Art-full Gathering, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Michaywe Clubhouse in Gaylord, public is invited to view and shop beautiful arts of jewelry, pottery, paintings, fiber work, and more, all artists and attendees

The Guide • October/November 2014

encouraged to bring non-perishable items for the Otsego County Food Pantry. Info: (989) 3701567 or www.GaylordChamber.com Cider Press Party, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, make homemade cider with vintage cider press and eat fresh baked goodies, ski trails are open and free to the public. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.VisitHoughtonLake.com

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Bruce Cameron Author Event, 6 to 8 p.m. at Saturn Booksellers in Gaylord, New York Times bestselling author Bruce Cameron will be signing his newest book The Midnight Plan of the Repo Man, a novel set right here in Kalkaska; cost is $5. Info: (989) 732-8899 or www.SaturnBookSellers.com Good Morning Alpena BreakfastService Clubs of Alpena, 7 to 8:30 a.m. at Alpena Senior Citizens Center in Alpena, exclusive sponsor is Bank of America, please RSVP; cost is $8. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Scrapbook Retreat at Riverwalk Place in Gladwin, 3 day, 2 night retreat includes luxurious accommodations, one Oasis Spa Service, Fri. Welcome Party, Sweet and Salty Snack Bar, Sat. Yogurt Parfait Breakfast Bar, $30 at Riverwalk Grill, brightly lit and spacious work room and work tables with power strips, giveaways, vendors and shopping coupons; $250 plus tax per person. Info: (989) 246-8000 or www.RiverWalkPlace.net Recycle Alpena, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.. at the Lincoln ARA site. Info: (989) 7246546

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men and women for their business and professional accomplishments, community service and for serving as a role model to encourage women to reach their full leadership potential; $20 each. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.AlpenaChamber.com You Can Teach a P.I.G. to SingHuman Resource Seminar, 9 a.m. to noon at Alpena Community College Granum Theatre in Alpena, Keynote Speaker Mary Jane Mapes, pre-register for event; $50 per person.

Info: (989) 356-9007 ext. 1124 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Piecing Memories Together, 6 to 8 p.m. at 2078 M-32 West in Alpena, participants will have the opportunity to share and learn with others experiencing grief and make a remembrance bear from an article of their loved one’s clothing, fee and sewing experience not required. (800) 664-8587 7th Annual Evening of Shopping, 5 to 8 p.m. at Standish Depot, vendors, door prizes, snacks and bargains. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org Fall Bazaar, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Mary’s of Michigan Standish Hospital, Skilled Nursing Facility, homemade soup and salad luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; $5 per person. Info: (989) 846-4521 Holiday Hunt, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fri. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in and around Beaverton, with 30 retailers featuring in-store sales, drawings and holiday bargains, craft shows, wreath and grave blanket sale, holiday music, hot cocoa, hay rides, welcome station at Beaverton City Hall and more. Info: (989) 435-3511 40th Annual Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tawas Area High School, spaces still available for those wishing to be a vendor; $30 for space and $35 for space with electricity. Info: (989) 820-0582 or www.TawasBands.com Women’s Getaway for a Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 205 Fitness Studio in downtown West Branch, exciting event will include food, demonstrations, and shopping, Crafts Emporium store will be open, hosting a variety of booths from local vendors and businesses, the day will end with a fun fashion show and chances to win door prizes. Info: (989) 701-2510 or www.WBACC.com Deer Camp Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brush Creek Mill in Hillman, limited space available; $10 for table. Info:

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Foster Care Orientation, a no-obligation discussion held 6-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at Wellspring Lutheran Services in Gaylord. Info: (989) 732-1040 or www.WellspringLutheran.com 20th Annual Athena Award Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Sanctuary Inn and Conference Center in Alpena, the Athena Award Program recognizes

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(989) 742-2527 or www.BrushCreekMill.com The Lion’s Roar-Meteor Showers and More, 8 to 10 p.m. at Headland’s International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, a meteor shower takes its name from the constellation in front of the radiant appears, see parent comets of the popular showers. Info: (231) 838-8181 or www.EmmetCounty.org Representative Bruce Rendon Local Office Hours, 9 to 10 a.m. at West Branch Chamber of Commerce, Representative Rendon will be available to answer questions, comments or address concerns. Info: (989) 345-2821 or www.WBACC.com Community China Trip Informational Meeting, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Alpena County Library Conference Room in Alpena, learn about nine day trip to China, starting at just $2,850 per person, trip includes round trip airfare from Detroit, four and five star hotels, three meals a day, all incountry transportation, a tour bus and English speaking tour guide, touring the Great Wall, a tea plantation, the Forbidden City, Tian An Men Square and many other place. Info: (989) 3544181 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Phil Dirt and the Dozers, 7:30 p.m. at Cheboygan Opera House in Cheboygan, second performance in the concert series; $20 adults or $10 students. Info: (231) 627-5432 or www.TheOperaHouse.org The Christmas Walk, in uptown Grayling, Santa will be arriving in town during the World’s Shortest Parade, businesses will host entertainment, offer refreshments or set up special Christmas displays, the Festival of Trees will be on display in the Grayling Mini Mall from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Info: (800) 937-8837 or www.GraylingChamber.com Thanksgiving New Moon Stargaze, 7 to 9 p.m. at Headland’s International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County, explore the winter constellations, hear their tales and make ready for the best stargazing tips and gears for the end of the year. Info: (231) 838-8181 or www.EmmetCounty.org Casey Abrams, 8 p.m. at Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts in Roscommon, multi-instrumentalist and American Idol favorite. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Christmas Tree Lighting, 4:30 p.m. in Harrisville. Info: (989) 736-7387 or

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www.AlconaCountyChamberofCommerce.com

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Thanksgiving Farmer’s Market, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. under the pavilion in Gaylord, fresh fall fruits, veggies, maple syrup, jams, jellies, honey, apple cider, cheese, eggs, poultry, turkeys, ham, beef and assortment of baked goods. Info: (989) 732-4060 or www.GaylordChamber.com Free Thanksgiving Dinner, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s of Michigan Standish Hospital, provided to those in need or anyone who may be celebrating the holiday at home alone. Info: (989) 846-4521 Thanksgiving Moonlight Madness, 10 p.m. at Tanger Outlet Center in West Branch, special sales. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com Bean Bomb, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, skip the Black Friday headache and come for a whole weekend of sales and fun, demo Nordic Walking poles or C.A.T. skis for free, much on some of Bob’s famous Bean Bomb.

Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.VisitHoughtonLake.com Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, runs through December 14, with 7:30 p.m. shows on Thurs. through Sat. with 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, at Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena, Christmas story through a new pair of eyes, untold stories and original music composed by Core Company, children are invited to participate in Thunder Bay Theatre’s very first I-Spy Theatre where they are asked to identify several onstage items in order to receive an early Christmas present; $15 for adults, $13 for active military and $8 youth 18 and under. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com 34th Annual Christmas Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Inland Lakes School in Indian River, come kickoff holiday shopping with a huge variety of unique handcrafted items from over 160 vendors; $3 admission. Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com Santa at the Depot, 6:45 p.m. at the Standish Depot, public to light the big outdoor Christmas Tree in Lion’s Park on Cedar Street, then sing carols as you walk to the Depot to meet Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot.org

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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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Day after Thanksgiving/ Moonlight Madness at Tanger Outlet in West Branch, stores will be open from midnight until 9 p.m. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com Light up the Season Weekend, in downtown Alpena, events throughout the weekend for the entire family. Info: (989) 356-6422 or www.AlpenaCVB.com Christmas Bazaar and Luncheon, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Alpena, quality handcrafted items, jams, jellies, and favorite regional foods, luncheon features choice of soups and decadent desserts, luncheon $6 per person. Info: (989) 354-3381 or www.AlpenaPresbyterian.com After Thanksgiving Special Sales Weekend, at Tanger Outlet in West Branch, sales running throughout the entire weekend. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com

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December 6:

Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ogemaw Heights High School in West Branch, annual Christmas Bazaar sponsored by the West Branch Rose City Music Boosters, over 75 vendors, bake sale, lunch, auction and performance by OHHS Jazz Band and Choir. Info: (989) 343-2020 or www.WBRCBands.com Richard Thompson Author Event, 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Saturn Booksellers in Gaylord, meet photographer and get your copies of his volume of photos from around the state signed; cost is $5. Info: (989) 732-8899 or www.SaturnBookSellers.com Children’s Christmas Party, at Brush Creek Mill in Hillman, free to all area children, pictures with Santa, games, crafts and prizes. Info: (989) 724-2527 or www.BrushCreekMill.com Lions Annual Children’s Christmas Party, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Oscoda, free lunch, pictures with Santa and lots of games. Info: (989) 739-3911 or www.OscodaChamber.com

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Christmas at the Light, noon to 5 p.m. at Tawas Point Lighthouse in East Tawas, tour the lighthouse, enjoy hot chocolate or cider, and a hayride, tree lighting every night through January 2; recreation passport required for park entrance and $2 for lighthouse tours.

Info: (989) 362-5658 or www.Michigan.gov

To list your event in the calendar please email the information to jnunn@infonortheast.com.

Calendar listings are free, highlighting costs $10.

Hunting for

a bargain

BEAVERTON – When the be available there or from red carpet rolls out across this participating retailers. small Gladwin County city on Shoppers who visit five November 14 and 15, inviting or more stores can enter a Michigan’s deer season drawing to win fuel cards two cards valued at $50 each widows to kick off the holiday and two valued at $25 will be shopping season, folks won’t drawn, Blatt said. have to hunt around for For all the fun and savings businesses taking part. that Holiday Hunt offers shoppers, store Some 30 stores participate in the owners and their employees anticipate event with in-store specials, drawings, the day as well, said Ann Heath, owner discounts or other shopper incentives. of Ann Marie’s Gifts and Home Décor, “Pretty much everyone in town gets located at the stop light. involved,” says Sally Zelt, owner of “It’s a huge event and everybody Flower Scents, a flower and gift shop. looks forward to it. My customer’s love Participation ranges from apparel it,” Heath said. “We start planning for shops, to feed stores, to the local it in June. It’s the biggest stock day for instant oil change, according to Zelt, Christmas décor and handcrafted items. and stretches as far as Kindred Hearts, a country gift and decor shop located on After that we’re playing catch up all the way ‘til Christmas.”

Lyle Road, nine miles south of town.

Holiday Hunt is not merely about “It’s the kick off to our holiday making money. season,” Zelt said. “We get a lot of The event serves as one of the shoppers from out of town. It gets season’s social highlights, says Kelly people out and about.”

Fruchey, owner of Meg’s Closet.

Among those “out and about” are representatives from a local scout troop, Featuring new, affordable woman’s fashion and accessories. selling wreathes and grave blankets.

“It gives us a chance to get to know A hay ride, as well as intermittent our customers better,” Fruchey says. performances by community choirs and “The girls out there are having a good student band members, are also in the time, everyone’s in works. Beaverton a good mood.

Church of the Holiday Hunt “I think it’s more Nazarene holds When: November 14 & 15 people from out of an annual arts and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 town than locals,” crafts show on p.m. Saturday Fruchey said. “We Saturday and other Where: In and around Beaverton met a lot of people similar events are who were here last scheduled around What you’ll find there: Holiday Gladwin County. bargains, in-store specials, discounts, year, who stopped back in to visit us Beaverton City drawings and prizes, refreshments, over the summer.”

Hall offers hot craft show, bake sale, hay rides, chocolate while holiday music and more. serving as Welcome Center for the event, Info: (989) 435-3511 according to Karen Blatt, president of the event-sponsoring Beaverton Area Business Association.

Maps of participating merchants will

The Guide • October/November 2014

Courtesy photo from Gladwin County Historical Society at www.GladwinHistory.org

Historic Preservation: Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse ALPENA – Through a century and a half of service Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse provided warning, protecting mariners from the shallow shoals nearby.

Now, it’s Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse that needs protection.

That job falls to Thunder Bay Island Preservation Society.

A ceremony conveying ownership from the federal government to the Township of Alpena will be held at 2 p.m. Oct. 25, at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena.

The public is invited.

Under the agreement, the northern part of Thunder Bay Island will join the Shiawasee National Wildlife Refuge under management of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Mean while management of the island’s southern portion, including preservation and restoration of the island’s remaining historic buildings, will become the responsibility of the 105-member Thunder Bay Island Preservation Society.

Those buildings include the lighthouse tower, keeper’s quarters, fog signal building and the oil house, according to Susan Skibbe, preservation society president.

The island was home to Alpena County’s first settlement – a fishing village with a population of around 100

people. The first lighthouse was erected in the early 1830s but was destroyed by a storm prior to service.

Rebuilt in 1842, Thunder Bay Island lighthouse remained in operation until 1980.

Formed in 1996 to reverse the deterioration and protect against vandalism, the Thunder Bay Island Preservation Society has been leasing the buildings from the U.S Coast Guard.

The first order of business for the Preservation Society, once the transfer is officially recorded, will be to develop a Historic Restoration Report, complete with an inventory of structures, their current conditions and a prioritized list of work to be done, Skibbe says.

High on the society’s list of importance in the immediate future will be increasing its membership.

For more information on Thunder Bay Island Preservation Society visit www.ThunderBayIslandLight.org.

Early next summer The Guide will have more about Thunder Bay Island and its historic importance, and report how the society’s work progresses.

19th Annual Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival When: Oct. 9-12 Where: Centered at the APlex in Alpena, the festival features 11 lighthouses, with tours, entertainment, historic exhibits, guest speakers, vendors and much more. In addition, most Northeast Michigan lighthouses hold events of their own.

Google search any Northeast Michigan lighthouse to see what festivities they have planned. Thunder Bay Island will probably not be involved in the festival this year.

Info: www.LighthouseFestival.org

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10

Scream ”

Scream in Wolverine is not for children, nor the inebriated.

in

Wolverine

by JERRY NUNN editor WOLVERINE – Hard to determine if Haakwood is really haunted. Promptly deserted more than a century ago after the town’s saw mill burned down, the former Cheboygan County logging town – pronounced “Hawkwood” like the bird, despite the spelling – sits in forgotten silence for 11 months of the year.

All that changes come October 9, this year’s grand opening of Scream in Wolverine.

That’s when the clown convention comes to town, when ghouls prowl the nearby cedar swamp, when the mad doctor mourns lost love in gruesome fashion.

“I’m either a complete genius or utterly insane,” says Kurt Zimmerle, mastermind of the event. “I’m not sure which.

There’s a fine line between the two is a little bit blurry.”

The line between reality and insanity gets a little extra fuzzy this time of year, as Halloween draws near and Zimmerle’s crew

I make no apologies for that at all. Little kids can go Trick or Treating, they have their school party. I wanted something for the bigger kids and for even bigger kids yet, like the ones my age.

”

– Kurt Zimmerle, head ghoul and Scream mastermind

of ghouls work overtime, turning part of Camp Wolverine into one of Northern Michigan’s largest haunts.

As crews install ghastly props, including an actual horse skeleton, the anticipation of scaring the pee out of people becomes palpable.

“As soon as you put on that mask, it’s show time,” says Michael McNeil, first year associate ghoul and a senior at Wolverine High School. “The best thing about it is just coming up with new ways to scare people.”

The Guide • October/November 2014

To keep the attraction fresh, basic layout changes from year to year. Zimmerle, a K-12 art teacher with Ellsworth Community Schools and a former Lego master builder, attends an annual haunted house convention to learn new frights, scare design and safety.

Zimmerle says the event is not for youngsters and entrance requires sobriety.

“I like to think of it as an elegant haunted house,” Zimmerle said, noting that materials to build the haunt are purchased locally.

“It truly is a labor of love. It’s a gift to our community.”

Much of the terror comes from the 40-orso people who work the attraction when associate ghouls come up with a frightful idea Zimmerle encourages them to incorporate it into the event.

“To become an associate ghoul takes years and years of training.

Associate ghouls are chosen and to be chosen is a great honor,” Zimmerle said.

Brandon McCauley, fifth year associate ghoul and criminal justice student at North Central Michigan College, produces evil laughter as he describes people whose knees turn to jelly out of pure fright.

“In the house we’ve set up areas where we’re guaranteed a sure scare,” says McCauley. “Some people come up swinging, some people fall right down. Others don’t react at all.” For the most part, those who love to scare the heck out of people, like to be scared themselves McCauley said. “It’s that adrenalin rush. You know you’re not going to die, but there’s always that half-a-second when you think you just might.”

Armed with personal knowledge of how best to scare the bejesus out of folks, most ghouls take up position along

the trail or throughout the House of Horror, often running in the dark from one place to another to increase their fear-filled encounters with jumpy visitors.

Others are at their most frightening when they are greeting apprehensive customers.

By daylight, Beth Carusi looks rather harmless. As ticket taker for Kurt & Burt’s House of Horrors however, Carusi delivers

the attraction’s “set up,” sharing the mad doctor’s story of lost love with nervous visitors.

“We get amazing amounts of people,” Carusi said. “I always tell them, ‘If you absolutely can’t make it through we do have emergency exits. It helps build the suspense.”

Indeed, so frightening is the event that an escape from terror really does exist half-way through the haunted house. The ghoul crew calls it the “Chicken Run.” Torrey Richardson, 19, a broker with Palmer Logistics in Wolverine, has worked at Scream in Wolverine since he was 12 years old. He recalls others whose career in terror began at such a young age, before life experience lent self-confidence.

“I’ve seen kids who could barely talk, they were so shy,” Richardson said. “Put them to work in the haunted house and they go crazy. They became an animal when they’re scaring people.”

Scream in Wolverine When: 7-11 p.m. every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 9 through Nov. 1 Where: At Camp Wolverine, on Straits Highway between Wolverine and Indian River What you’ll find there: The mysteriously deserted town of Haakwood, with Kurt & Burt’s House of Horror, the Swamp of Terror and the Crazed Clown Convention, featuring the ghouls Chuck the Gorilla, Elwood, Zippy, Digger and many more. Drinking is prohibited.

Cost: $20 gains entry for all three attractions, a la carte and combination pricing ranges from $5 to $16.

Info: www.ScreamInWolverine.com

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12

By JERRY NUNN

Roadkill Jack

A former pastor hits the road, so to speak, with a musical, comedic and decidedly Northern Michigan message meant to make people laugh and think about their spiritual side.

LACHINE – At first glance, Jack Williams seems to be a far cry from the man he used to be.

After 38 years as pastor of Alpena County’s Beaver Lake Community Church, Williams retired and took up music, trading his pastoral lessons for a newfound comedy act while assuming the stage name of Roadkill Jack.

Don’t let the disparate transformation fool you.

Jack’s act, even from the pulpit, has always been about relationships – at both personal and spiritual levels.

“I’m not trying to preach to people. I’m trying to make them laugh, have a good time and maybe connect with their spiritual side,” says Williams.

“My goal is not to get people to join the church, but to examine and acknowledge a relationship with Christ.”

Jovial and talkative, Williams sets forth the same light-hearted demeanor now as he did when he was preaching. Never one to wear a suit and tie, Williams yearned to be a member of his flock, more than he desired to be their leader.

Nonetheless, word of the former preacher’s conversion

from clergy to comedic musician has gotten around. He hears it now and then during his frequent service as a visiting pastor.

“I’ve been to a number of churches filling in for the pastor and people in the congregation will be like, ‘We want to hear a Roadkill song,’” Williams says.

“I tell them, ‘That’s not why I’m here today.’ Sometimes they’re insistent and then I think, ‘Well, that’s the last time I’ll be asked to fill in here.’”

Given the time and money, Williams would open a true-to-life Roadkill Café along state highway M-65, somewhere in Northeast Michigan. He’d also like to combine his Roadkill Jack character with his clergy role to perform a roadkill-themed wedding.

“Now I think that would be great,” he said.

Williams, who worked as a police officer in Pontiac and Ferndale before joining the clergy, took up musical instruments a few years before retiring in 2013. It was more a return to his musical roots and

Well I’ve got a big flat shovel in the back of my old truck.

And I’m headed down M-65 just a hopin’ I’m in luck.

Well it may be skunk, it may be ‘coon or it may be a flattened cat, Whatever it is I’ll bring it home, my name is Road Kill Jack.

The Guide • October/November 2014

– The Ballad of Road Kill Jack

Williams tells of his own childhood during the 1940s and 50s, surrounded by the music of family and friends.

Their strong influence remains and Roadkill Jack plays what he calls “old time” music – a mix of blue grass, folk and gospel, with heavy influence from musical styles from history.

Most of his songs are pure comedy – despite its title, the song I Found a Kat’s Ear in My Chili at the Roadkill Cafe is a love story. Many songs include n references to local landmarks or offer practical advice: Fried Bologna suggests cutting an “X” in the lunch meat to keep it flat

e

“Once you get people laughing, you can talk about anything,” Williams said.

“Laughter breaks a down a lot of walls.”

Williams plays more than his share of benefits. Ironically perhaps, he’s best known for his support of Northeast Michigan food pantries.

The first Sunday of every month finds Roadkill Jack and other musicians at the Beaver Lake Community Church, performing the charity mission they call Pickin’ For People.

First Fridays you’ll find him at

while frying.

“Most of the songs I wrote myself, so they are original,” Williams says. “I’m trying to give a unique view of Northern Roadkill Jack has two C.D.s – Michigan.”

Songs for the Highway and The Hellbound Train.

And just like Both are available at www.RoadkillJack.com the song writer, the songs serve a To learn more about upcoming performances higher purpose. call (989) 379-2231.

the Alpena Senior Center where he can attract crowds of 100 or so, according to Administrator Lori Fields.

“He does a great job. People look forward to him coming,” said Fields, noting the crowds range in age from young to old.

“They ask him to play requests and if he knows a song, he’ll play it. People get up and dance.

Some people get up on stage and sing with him, sometimes the staff gets up and sings.”

That right there is the sort of relationships that Roadkill Jack is looking to build.

“My music, it’s all about people,” he said. “I’m trying to build a connection where maybe I couldn’t before. I’m just trying to make people smile, have a good time, and make a quarter for myself on the side.”

You’ve proudly served this country Let us proudly serve you

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Recommends

7th Annual

Art-full Gathering When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. November 1 Where: Michaywé 1535 Opal Lake Road Gaylord What you’ll find there: More than 25 Northern Michigan artists, with some returning favorites and some new presenters. Work represents nearly all mediums, including painting in acrylics, oils and watercolor, drawings, photography, jewelry, wood crafts, and clothing ranging from the whimsical to the more formal and serious. Included are cottage food items, furniture, fiber and paper arts, quilts and holiday gift items. Special luncheon menu and event pricing provided by Michaywé Inn the Woods.

Directions: From Interstate-75 exit 279, go south two miles on Old US 27 to Charles Brink Road, then east to Opal Lake Road, to the Michaywé Club House.

Admission: $3 plus non-perishable food items for Otsego County Food Pantry. Last year more than 300 pounds of food items were donated.

Info: (989) 370-1567 or (989) 939-8800

www.Michaywe.com www.FriendsOnPurpose.com

Recommends

7th Annual

Art-full Gathering When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. November 1 Where: Michaywé 1535 Opal Lake Road Gaylord What you’ll find there: More than 25 Northern Michigan artists, with some returning favorites and some new presenters. Work represents nearly all mediums, including painting in acrylics, oils and watercolor, drawings, photography, jewelry, wood crafts, and clothing ranging from the whimsical to the more formal and serious. Included are cottage food items, furniture, fiber and paper arts, quilts and holiday gift items. Special luncheon menu and event pricing provided by Michaywé Inn the Woods.

Directions: From Interstate-75 exit 279, go south two miles on Old US 27 to Charles Brink Road, then east to Opal Lake Road, to the Michaywé Club House.

Admission: $3 plus non-perishable food items for Otsego County Food Pantry. Last year more than 300 pounds of food items were donated.

Info: (989) 370-1567 or (989) 939-8800

www.Michaywe.com www.FriendsOnPurpose.com

16

Five fun fall activities in Northeast Michigan

By CLAIRE WOOD Huron Pines AmeriCorps member

Help the Au Sable River Watershed!

As the crisp fall air blows in with the falling leaves, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the changing season and all that autumn has to offer outdoors in Northeast Michigan.

–photo by Gary Gee

Elk Viewing in the Pigeon River Country Head east of Vanderbilt, down Sturgeon Valley Road, for a chance to see majestic elk during breeding season. Best time for viewing is September and October, when males are heard bugling and herds are spotted grazing open grassy fields.

Reintroduced in Michigan back in 1918, as many as 900 elk thrive in the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Plenty of other wildlife call the 100,000-acre wilderness area home, too. Pine marten, black bear, bobcat, coyote, otters, grouse, woodcock and bald eagles can be seen in the rustic PRC. Elk viewing sites are scattered throughout the forest. Approaching elk on foot is not recommended.

Visit Michigan.gov/dnrpigeonriver for more information.

Raptor Migration at the Straits Because of its unique geography, the Straits of Mackinac is one of the best places in the country for studying raptors. A concentration point along the migration pathway of eagles, hawks, falcons and owls, its The Guide • October/November 2014

geology funnels the –courtesy of Straits Area Audubon Society birds to the northern tip of Lower Michigan to cross the Great Lakes’ narrowest point.

In 2014 more than 40,000 raptors were counted crossing the Straits during spring migration. In autumn, owls are the most common raptor seen crossing above the spectacular colored trees that dot the shoreline, especially during the first two weeks of October.

Ed Pike, President of the Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch, leads fall owl surveys and encourages public involvement by attending one of the nighttime events. Best time to spot the owls migrating is between 9 p.m. and midnight, but the survey goes on all night.

Visit www.MackinacRaptorWatch.org

Exploring Northeast Michigan’s Wineries and Cider Mill Rose Valley Winery, located in Rose City, is committed to making quality wines from locally-grown, cold-hardy grapes. With a variety of whites, reds, and fruit wines, the winery is worth a taste. Rose Valley Winery holds a Harvest Celebration October 11 from noon to 6 p.m. To learn more, call (989) 685-9399.

That same day Huron Pines and the City of Rose City will also host a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the completion of a stormwater treatment project that protects the Rifle River.

Thunder Bay Winery, located in downtown Alpena, is another great option for trying local wine, and offers lunch and dinner from the Fresh Palate Gourmet. The vineyard boasts 12 varieties of grapes. Stop in and enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the tasting room, located in Alpena’s historic Center Building. Visit www.ThunderBayWinery.com.

For a family friendly option, check out Knaebe’s Cider Mill in Rogers City. With 30 varieties of apples, the small orchard and cider mill offers an array of treats. Unpasteurized cider, local honey and maple syrup, caramel apples, donuts, homemade pies and Michigan gifts are all available, along with orchard tours, wagon rides, pony rides, and a pumpkin patch.

Visit www.MmmunchyKrunchyAppleFarm.com

time to paddle a Northeast Michigan river. Many liveries remain open on weekends or by appointment through the end of autumn. The Au Sable “Holy Waters” section is a great stretch to experience changing leaves while the sun is still warm. But any river is an extra special place to behold as the cobble streambed’s rusty earth tone fuses with the vibrant reds and oranges of changing trees to create the perfect autumn splendor.

Bike: The North Central State Trail, formerly a railroad grade, is a 61-mile trail running from Gaylord to Mackinaw City. It’s one of the best trails in the Midwest with relatively flat terrain for biking and enjoying the scenic beauty. The Sturgeon River Valley and the section north of Topinabee along the west side of Mullet Lake are special highlights.

Camping and other amenities are available along the way.

Visit www.trailscouncil.org

Fish the Fall Salmon Runs In September, salmon rush into the Au Sable River from Lake Huron.

These aggressive fish can weigh more than 30 pounds. Although their populations are still down in Lake Huron, some northern rivers like the Rifle River are planted with salmon and still see a healthy presence in the fall. Steelhead follow behind the September salmon runs and stay over the winter, waiting to spawn the following spring. Along with large lake-run brown trout, these fish provide a worthy target for fishermen looking for a challenge.

– photo by Gary Nelkie

–photo by Ken DeMar

Color Tour by Bike, Foot or Float Hike or Bike: The High Country Pathway runs 80 miles through the heart of elk country and is great for the daring mountain biker or backpacker. Rife with wildlife and plenty of fall splendor it’s a must for any avid outdoor adventure-seeker in Northeast Michigan.

Paddle: Fall is a particularly beautiful www.facebook.com/michigan.guide

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.

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Creative learning in the Ella White Woods

By Jacob DeWitt Huron Pines AmeriCorps ALPENA – This year, students and community members around Northeast Michigan are lending a hand towards rebuilding the Ella White Elementary Nature Area. Educational project leaders want to create a space within easy reach, where students can learn about environmental science and where teachers can pursue long-term projects without making expensive travel arrangements.

While still in its early development, the project has taken on a life of its own as area schools and businesses collaborate to make major contributions to the education of Alpena students.

The Nature Area was created in the late-1990s as a little piece of nature available for area students. The park lay unused until NEMSCA Head Start teacher Terry Pagels, assistant Felicity Alexander, and Ella White third grade teacher Susan Landon, put the property to use.

As Head Start teachers, Terry and Felicity recognized the value of time spent outside with students. They say

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“

An unexpected result was the positive interactions between the Head Start preschoolers and the third graders. The third graders became on-the-spot mentors, watching out for the safety of the preschoolers and guiding them in how to help.

– Terry Pagels, NEMSCA Head Start teacher

children simply learn better when taught outdoors using natural materials.

Initial work has been possible through contributions from educational partners, professionals and volunteers.

Kate Moffatt of the Child Advocacy Group worked with educators to make play areas safer by removing low hanging branches and clearing brush.

Presque Isle Conservation District forester Bethany Lyons and Biologist Heather Rawlings of the Department of Fish and Wildlife lent their professional

expertise, developing child-friendly activities, while advising on the removal of invasive species and the encouragement native plants and animals.

The Boys and Girls Club’s Youth Volunteer Corps Coordinator Matt Muszynski brought YVC students out to weatherproof the split-rail fence surrounding the Nature Area.

The Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative’s Huron Pines AmeriCorps volunteer has been coordinating area project partners and

The Guide • October/November 2014

”

schools for this place-based educational opportunity, a role the organization has fulfilled since 2006.

Partnerships between businesses and school benefit both by giving business owners a chance to contribute to their community while providing students real world experience in a useful trade.

A major goal of project organizers is to install benches, making Ella White Elementary Nature Area a true “outdoor classroom.” Leaders are seeking help from schools and businesses to fabricate the benches so that the Nature Area will have unique works of

graders,” Pagels said. “The third graders became on-the-spot mentors, watching out for the safety of the preschoolers and guiding them in how to help.”

Student cooperation between grades will continue to be an innovative part of this place-based educational project, and team leaders are currently seeking assistance from interested teachers and community members throughout Northeast Michigan.

— Jacob Dewitt is education coordinator for Northeast Michigan GLSI. Megan Moore is watershed technician for Huron Pines covering the Pigeon, Sturgeon, Thunder Bay and Au Sable River Watersheds.

industrial art made by students, for students.

Community partners are an important part of making this nyone place-based educational interested in activity a reality.

Home Depot has bringing their skills or been a reliable partner resources to the Ella White right from the start, Elementary Nature Area Project supplying gloves, should contact NEMI GLSI paint brushes, paint, education coordinator Jacob DeWitt and basic tools for at jacobdewittglsi@gmail.com or student use.

Education Specialist and NEMI But there is GLSI Liaison Harriet Smith at always room for harriet.smith@noaa.gov more partners.

Continued They’d be happy to discuss cooperation can only ways for you to get make this project grow involved. exponentially.

That cooperative spirit of education reaches beyond community partnerships, according to Pagels. Last spring, when clean-up of the property began, she said that young students gave a lesson to their teachers.

“An unexpected result was the positive interactions between the Head Start preschoolers and the third

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– photos courtesy of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Getting to know the expanded sanctuary

By WAYNE R. LUSARDI State maritime archaeologist

S

ince its designation in 2000, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary has protected one of the richest collections of shipwrecks in America. The cold, clear waters of Lake Huron are a treasure trove of our nation’s maritime history, from the days of the earliest pioneers to the modern era of bustling commerce on the Great Lakes. Recent expansion of the sanctuary’s borders increased its size from 448 square miles to 4,300, while increasing its numbers of potential shipwrecks to 300.

ALPENA – Archaeologists and cultural resource managers have been surveying shipwrecks in and around Thunder Bay for nearly half a century.

Michigan State University worked with Alpena area divers in the early 1970s to assess a dozen known shipwrecks in preparation for the designation of Thunder Bay as one of the nation’s first State Underwater Preserves.

A few decades later, in 2000, Thunder Bay was further designated a National Marine Sanctuary, to be jointly managed by the State and Federal governments.

The Sanctuary consisted of 448 square miles of Lake Huron off The Guide • October/November 2014

A

O a w N

Side-scan sonar image of the steel bulk freighter W. C. Franz, lost in 230 feet of water off Alcona County in 1934. The 346-foot vessel sits upright and intact on the lake bottom, and the large rectangular cargo hatches are easily visible in the sound image.

and often times the first view of a newly discovered shipwreck is literally an image created by sound waves. From that image a number of details can be interpreted including overall dimensions, type of vessel, and in some circumstances, the cause of the ship’s sinking.

Throughout the last two summers, maritime archaeologists The 242-foot long wooden schooner Newell Eddy have used foundered off Spectacle Reef in Northern Lake Huron side-scan sonar in 1893. It sits upright on the lake bottom in 170 feet to image many of water. The shadow off the starboard side of the ship shipwrecks in clearly indicates two masts still standing and a bowsprit the expansion projecting from the front of the schooner. areas north and south of Thunder Alpena County which contains at least Bay. This survey 50 known shipwreck sites, the oldest provides a baseline level of being the paddle wheel steamer New documentation for many of the historic Orleans, lost off Sugar Island in 1849, treasures within Thunder Bay National and the most recent, Barge No. 12, lost Marine Sanctuary’s newly expanded while salvaging the German freighter region.

Nordmeer in 1975.

In September 2014, Thunder Bay Visit the National Marine Sanctuary boundaries Great Lakes expanded to include all waters off Alcona, Alpena and Presque Isle Maritime Heritage Center Counties, as well as Spectacle Reef Exhibits for all ages and surrounding shoals in Mackinac and Chippewa Counties. The area Explore the shipwreck increased to over 4,000 square miles, Century doubled the number of shipwrecks to be protected and increased the Winter hours potential number of shipwrecks yet to 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. be discovered to well over 300.

Archaeologists use a device known Mon. – Sat. as side-scan sonar to detect wrecks Admission is free. and other objects on the lake bottom.

Pulled behind a boat or mounted to an For more information about autonomous underwater vehicle, the Thunder Bay National Marine instrument emits sound waves that are Sanctuary and the Maritime bounced off the bottom providing a three dimensional picture of whatever Heritage Center visit may be there. www.ThunderBay.noaa.gov Many shipwrecks in the Great Lakes were discovered using this technology

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during a recent Game Night at her Ogemaw County school. “It really gives students a chance to shine.

I think it’s fun for parents when they see what their kids, especially the younger ones,

WEST BRANCH – For parents, Game Night provides an opportunity to assess their youngster’s ability while spending quality time. For teachers, the evenings provide a chance to connect with students in a less-structured setting. And for school administrators, Game Night helps fulfill The wide selection of games available at Game requirements Nights provide youngsters a chance to learn of the are actually while having fun. increasingly capable of.” important Title I grants.

Kish also credits Sandy Rabidue But it is the students who benefit and her assistant Melissa Weiler. most from Game Night. They are the Rabidue owns three Northeast ones gaining knowledge, reinforcing Michigan office supply stores skills and building stronger including Office Central in relationships through educational West Branch, Office Impact in play.

Roscommon and Tools To Teach in “Everyone who was there had Gaylord. In her West Branch and fun,” said Buffy Kish, principal of Gaylord locations, Rabidue offers a St. Joseph Catholic School in West giant inventory of educational games Branch. Kish credits the relaxed along with teaching and classroom atmosphere, away from the burden supplies aimed at educators. of homework and the pressures of While local schools or even entire home, for the spontaneous laughter districts sponsor the game nights, and enthusiasm that she observed Rabidue and Weiler play host, The Guide • October/November 2014

Students from St. Joseph Catholic School in West Branch, along with parents and grandparents, attend a recent Game Night where kids learn through play and interact with teachers in a more informal environment.

arriving early to train parent and teacher volunteers. Once volunteers are familiar with rules and method of play, an assortment of games based on student age and ability are made ready to play.

When students, parents and often grandparents arrive, the educational fun takes place in rotation so that everyone gets an opportunity to try their hand at a wide variety of games.

“They are champions at what they do,” said Kish noting another Game Night is already being planned for later in the school year. “It’s a great way for families to spend quality time, playing games together.”

Rabidue sees the results first hand.

“The biggest and most important thing is, they’re having fun while learning,” Rabidue said. “Kids simply learn better and faster when they are having fun. They don’t even know they’re learning. They may not learn a new skill, but they are reinforcing skills they’ve already learned.”

In addition, student take turns while playing, learn to win respectfully and be gracious losers, gain coordination and dexterity, all

while working together to learn cooperation, says Rabidue.

“Those are things the students take away from game night beyond the educational content of the games. Those are very important skills that all kids need to learn,” Rabidue

said.

Games that students sample are available for sale when Game Night ends, priced from a couple dollars to $25. Most schools offer coupons to help students save money on purchases or even receive games for free.

“The students are learning and they don’t even realize it,” Weiler said. “There are no power cords, there are no batteries, and everyone comments on the fun they’ve had.

“If the teacher has a good time playing a game, if they get excited, then the students have a good time and those are the games that sell,” she said.

For school administrators, Game Night serves to meet the requirements for Title I, the federally funded grant program to schools.

Administered by the state, Title I participation calls for increased parent involvement in schools and the encouragement of education in the home.

Game Night helps fulfill both those requirements according to Lee Grimes, a science teacher at Gladwin Community Schools and the

district’s Title I parent involvement coordinator. She said her district, where high school students from National Honor Society serve as Game Night volunteers, has utilized Rabidue’s service for eight years.

Like many schools, officials here serve pizza or refreshments during Game Night.

In Gladwin the evening regularly attracts as many as 250 people.

“We have a lot of families that look forward to it every year,” said Grimes, noting she appreciates the service Rabidue and Weiler provide, as well as the parent involvement that Game Night encourages.

“It’s a fun family night,” Grimes said. “Parents like the opportunity to spend time and play games with their kids.”

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North County History

with Rob Burg

Market hunting in Northeast Michigan H

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unting and fishing is a way of life in Northeast Michigan. But imagine the state empty of wildlife.

Thanks to market hunting during After the grayling disappeared, trout was the state’s early years, introduced into the Au Sable River. Bearded that nearly happened river guide Rube Babbitt and a client hold up the as Michigan lost two day’s catch of trout. At the beginning of the 20th major game species and century the one-day bag limit on brook trout was endangered another.

50, with a six-inch minimum size restriction.

Once the most populous bird in North America, the passenger pigeon Sable River. became extinct in 1914. In the early A popular game fish found in 1800s John James Audubon saw Europe, grayling were unknown in flocks of a billion birds that took the United States until identified three days to pass over his Kentucky in the waters below the village of Crawford in the 1870s. So numerous home. was the grayling that residents of But the pigeons proved an easy Crawford voted to rename their target.

Michigan conservationist William community Grayling in its honor.

During Michigan’s lumber boom – B. Mershon wrote of the passenger on the same rivers that sent logs to pigeons in 1907: “They were slain mill – another boom occurred. by the millions during the middle Grayling, described as “very of the last century, and from one region of Michigan in one year three beautiful and of a delicious flavor,” were very easy to catch. million Passenger Pigeons were Author Thaddeus Norris described killed for market, while in that roost fishing on the Au Sable River in as many more perished because of Scribner’s Weekly in November the barbarous methods of hunting 1879: “On the second day we killed them. They supplied a means of living for thousands, who devastated and salted down-heads and tails off-a hundred and twenty pounds of their flocks with nets, guns, and fish, besides eating all we wanted.” even with fire.”

And in his book “The Old Au While the slaughter of the Sable,” author Hazen Miller wrote: passenger pigeon took place, the “the activities of two Chicago groups grayling was discovered in the Au

The Guide • October/November 2014

ing that had camped on a ibrary, Grayl Memorial L x u a re ve e D northern of mpliments – photos co grayling stream and had taken a total of eight thousand grayling.

Most of the fish had been sent to Chicago, but many were left to rot on the banks of the Until 1895 the lack of laws limiting hunting streams.” seasons and bag limits encouraged market Like the hunting of white-tailed deer, as depicted by passenger pigeon, this photo of venison waiting to be loaded at the grayling was a marketable commodity, the Cheboygan train station. packed for shipment on 70,000 deer taken in Michigan, the railroad.

Famed local fishing guide Rube market hunters took 66,000. An Babbitt reminisced “from 1875 estimated 5 million pounds of to 1881 father and I shipped our venison was shipped out of state. catches to a Chicago restaurant, The situation led to an 1881 which paid us the unheard-of-price regulation banning the out-of-state of 25 cents a pound.” sale of venison but, with no game After grayling disappeared Babbitt wardens appointed to enforce the introduced the brook trout into the law, the practice was difficult to stop.

Au Sable River. Brook trout was It was 1895 before a law was native to some of Michigan’s rivers enacted setting a season of and was planted to replace the November 1-25, a bag limit of five grayling. Also introduced were the deer and requiring the purchase of a brown trout from Europe and the hunting license. rainbow trout from the American Market hunting is now a thing of West. the past in Michigan. Our wildlife All three species thrived. have benefited from this.

The third game species that The passenger pigeon and the market hunters went after was Michigan grayling will never return. white-tailed deer. The white-tailed But responsible game and habitat deer was not populous in northern management will ensure that Michigan until the pine was cut and Michigan’s white-tailed deer aspen and oak took its place. By the population is never endangered.

1870s the deer population exploded — An expert on Michigan’s logging and market hunting became era and the Civilian Conservation common practice.

Corps, historian Rob Burg owns d Market hunters slaughtered hundreds of thousands of deer for North Country History, offering the sale of venison, according to the historical programs and presentations DNR, with hindquarters and legs to schools and other groups. shipped during the fall of the year and the rest of the carcass discarded.

In 1880 the Michigan Sportsman Association reported that of

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Photos & story

By MARIANNE KUZIMSKI

special to The Guide

M arianne’s hamburger challenge

A burger lover’s search for the best burger in Northeast Michigan CLEAR LAKE – Reading the menu We ordered one of each and waited at Clear Lake Bar may be reminiscent of as patiently as we could for our feast to the Saturday morning cartoons of your begin. youth.

From the time we got our first look, Leave it to owners John Szkubiel, with the burgers still held high in the air and his son John Szkubiel Jr. - both go on a tray, as Sherri weaved through the by the nickname “Scoob” and they’ve quickly developing throng of customers named their headline hamburger the to make her way to our table, we knew Scoobie Burger. If the Scoobie burger we’d made a good choice by coming to doesn’t remind you of Hanna-Barbera’s Clear Lake Bar. animated, criminal-chasing Great Dane, The bacon and ham glistened Scooby-Doo, then perhaps the Porky tauntingly from under the bun’s edge Pig Burger will bring Warner Bros. with the absolute promise of taste bud classic cartoon to mind. satisfaction as the Porky Pig’s heady Even those who don’t remember scent of grilled beef and crispy bacon the animated characters will find plenty wafted through the air, adding weight to of delight in the burgers found at Clear this first of impressions.

Lake Bar. The Porky Pig Burger is a 1/2 Sherri Brown, server at the Clear pound burger topped with ham, bacon, Lake Bar for the past 26 years, was an American cheese, lettuce, tomato and absolute gem. mayo.

She helped my first “The first bite of the Porky Pig biteThe husband and of the burger challenge reminded me of a meat lover’s Porky Pig side-kick Kurt pizza… On the other hand, the reminded me and I decide of a meat Scooby Burger sang to my which burgers lover’s pizza taste buds in super-deluxewere the best stacked on a style starting with the initial, freshly grilled of the best. The Scoobie Burger brioche bun tantalizing bite.” and the Porky – minus the Pig Burger are the two most ordered sauce. Juicy, and extremely tasty, I and favorite burgers on the ginormous could tell right away this burger would burger menu, according to Sherri. be a savior to anyone’s empty stomach.

The Guide • October/November 2014

secluded Clear Lake area just for a taste. Not the sloppiest of burgers, which was absolutely fine with me, the Scooby Burger was a two napkin eating experience nonetheless: oooey but not too gooey.

Blink while driving The Scooby Burger is loaded up with all your through Clear Lake favorite hamburger toppings including both and you’ll likely miss Swiss and American cheese. this cozy little stop in On the other hand, the Scooby northern scenic Ogemaw Burger sang to my taste buds in superCounty, situated only a few steps away deluxe-style starting with the initial, from Clear Lake and 11 miles north of tantalizing bite! It was one of those West Branch. burgers that I didn’t want to set back Surprisingly busy for a Sunday down on the plate for fear of someone afternoon, it appears that the Clear (like the super-hungry, burger-loving Lake Bar is quite the sports fan hangout Kurt) thieving it right out from under my throughout the long northern Michigan nose. winters, as well as a fantastic pit stop The Scooby Burger is a 1/2-pound for hunters or a destination for hungry beef burger loaded up with all your snowmobilers that have been riding the favorite hamburger toppings including trails all day. ketchup, mustard, mayo, pickles, Owned for 41 years by the family of onions, lettuce, tomato and both Swiss John’s wife, Shawn Szkubiel, she and and American cheese.

“Scoob” took over the reins in 1989.

Finishing off every last bite of the Since then, they have added several Scooby Burger left me happily content items to the bar’s menu including the and glad I’d highly favored Scooby Burger. ventured out Call ahead to Clear to whereverin-NortheastMichigan I was to find another burger challenge winner.

Juicy, flavorful, and beefy, this 1/2 pounder is a perfectly delicious deluxe burger that I would order The Porky Pig Burger is a 1/2 pound burger again and again. Rating up there topped with ham, bacon, American cheese, with the top burgers I’ve tasted in lettuce, tomato and mayo.

Northeast Michigan, the Scooby Burger is worth the drive through the

Lake Bar at (989) 345-1155 for their winter hours before you mosey through on a scenic tour. That way you’ll be sure to arrive during working hours.

Got a favorite Northeast Michigan burger that Marianne should know about? Let us know here at The Guide, and maybe she will meet you there for an all-out burger blast!

— Marianne Kuzimski lives in Houghton Lake with her husband Kurt. Besides a passion for photography, Marianne is a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys a good glass of wine and great food of all kinds, not just burgers.

Clear Lake Bar 11 miles north of West Branch – take Fairview Road north to Clear Lake Road then west.

(989) 345-1155

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