The Guide September 2012

TheGuide•September20122

GUIDEFEATURES 8 Plight of the plover 10 Flutter flight 11 Pampered Beef 14 Return of the grayling 18 Preserving the Big Water 20 Time capsule of history 22 Life and times of Ray Klinger 24 Anatomy of friendship 30 The Way We Worked 31 Slim pickings

covering the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle and RoscommonSeptember 2012 Volume III, Issue 6

Published by: Info Northeast Jerry Nunn, editor (989) 780-0900 [email protected]

Contributing writers: CharlesBendig,DennisMansfield, Jerry Nunn, Samuel Prentice, Jon Paul Roy

Contributing photographers: Roger Erikkson, Kathy Neff, Jerry Nunn, Scott Nunn, Shay Polzin, Larry VanWagoner, Denise Willis

Advertising manager and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 [email protected]

Layout and design: Kathy Neff (989) 848-0787 [email protected]

Reversal of fortune

By JERRY NUNNeditor

AU GRES – Folks in this Arenac County town are experiencing a reversal of fortune.

Last year, membership in the Au Gres Yacht Club had fallen to less than 20 members and there was a real chance the facility would be lost to back taxes.

Now taxes are paid, insurance is up to date, events are being held nearly every weekend and recently, the club registered its

one-hundredth member of the year.

It has been a watershed year in the history of the club.

Built in 1988, the Au Gres Yacht Club began as the central focus of an entire riverside community, part of a development that included condominiums, boat slips, private homes, apartments and vacant river front lots.

The vision of land developer and probate judge Ken Ralph, the Yacht Club was once the focus of the entire Au Gres community. That was before the economy went adrift and interest in waterfront property sank.

Now, interest in the maritime and nautical has apparently been renewed and a new energy has overtaken the club.

Some credit Mark and Tam Foster, owners of Dean’s Bait & Tackle in Alger. Mark serves as the club’s commodore and together they bring experience from their work with B4K – Bikers for Kids – a multi-county fundraising organization that focuses on youth.

After purchasing a slip at the yacht Club, the couple certainly has the motive to improve the club’s outlook.

“The first time we had our boat over here, we tied up to the wall and came in and had a burger,” said Mark. “We said, ‘Hey, this is pretty cool!’ So we bought our slip and the next year the Yacht Club closed.”

Tam admits it is exciting to think that the club will become a reflection of its former self.

Weekly dinners and parties held this summer have been popular and well attended, lending a strong suggestion that the Yacht Club can realize eventual success. And next season members hope to open the restaurant and get the club’s

liquor license back.Tam says like any member

organizations it is people working together that result in success.

“It’s teamwork. No one could do something this big alone,” Tam said. “I’m excited about this place but I’d like to think we all are.”

Visit the Au Gres Yacht ClubTurn right at the light, if you’re headed north on U.S. 23, and follow the road to the end.

visit them online atwww.AuGresYachtClubInc.com

or friend them on Facebook

Better yet, join the fun.Social membership costs $125 Pool membership costs $150 Combination membership costs $225

The Mysterians8 p.m. September 1

at Au Gres Yacht Club$5 cover charge, free for

Yacht Club members

Cover photograph by Denise Willis — www.SunriseSideSnapshots.com

Centerfold photographs courtesy of Robert Spaulding and Pumpkin Run Car Show and Cruise

www.facebook.com/michigan.guide 3 TheGuide•September2012

September1: 9th Annual Junque in the Trunk, 10 a.m. to

3 p.m. at Grayling Mini Mall, next to Glen’s Market on the business loop in Grayling, indoors in case of rain. Info: (989) 348-9419

1: Wertz Warriors Golf Outing, 1:30 p.m. shotgun start at Knoll View Golf Course in AuGres,

$68 each or $272 per team includes steak dinner, hot dogs and shrimp on the turn, many prizes, helicopter ball drop at 8:30 p.m. fireworks at dark, live music and more. Pre-registration requested. Info: (989) 903-5375 or (989) 876-4653

1: Mud Bogs, at 33 Motosports Park in Mio, with tech and registration 9 a.m. to noon and racing at

1 p.m. with six classes, entry fee is $25, spectators cost $8 adults, $2 for ages 5 to 10. Info: (989) 280-3534 or www.ConcernedRacersClub.com

1: Run for River House, 8 a.m. registration and check-in at Hanson Hills Recreation Area,

Grayling, racing at 10 a.m., $25 cost with prizes to top male and female finishers. Info: (989) 370-3636 or (989) 348-3169

1: 10th Annual Gun Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Steiner Museum, two miles north of Fairview.

Info: (989) 848-2814

1: Horn’s Bar Labor Day Regatta, Around the Island Race, with a skipper’s meeting 1:30 p.m. at

the Mackinac Island Yacht Club, race starts at 2:15 p.m., all sailboats invited. Info: (906) 847-3363

1: Fine Art Show, featuring the works of Kirtland Community College staff, 11 a.m. at AuSable

Artisan Village in downtown Grayling. Info: (989) 312-3660

1: 11th Annual Aliferis Run & Bike Race, 8 a.m. at Alpena Regional Medical Center, featuring

a 1/2 marathon, 5K run, two mile walk and a 18.5 mile bike race; costs range from $20-50 based on event entered. Info: (989) 356-7351 or www.AlpenaRegionalMedicalCenter.org

1: Fish & Fries, 4-7 p.m. at the Mio Masonic Lodge. Info: (989) 826-6419

1: Labor Day Cook-Out, 1-6 p.m. at American Legion in Luzerne. Info: (989) 86-5950

1-2: Presque Isle County Fair, starts August 29 gates open at noon daily, with

crafters, garden demonstrations, mud bog, horse show, music, Extreme Productions and more. Info: (989) 733-2584 or www.PICountyFair.net

1-2: 138th Annual Alpena County Fair, the final weekend at Alpena County

Fairgrounds, with a traditional agricultural fair with horse show, truck and tractor show, children’s livestock show, canoe/kayak race and a country classic carnival. Info: (989) 356-1174 or (989) 356-1847

1-2: Letters from Frenchman’s Pond – a Tribute to Robert Traver, pen

name of author John Voelker, at the Old AuSable Fly Shop in Grayling, with photographs letters and books on display, and a visit on Saturday with long-time Voelker friend, Jim Enger. Info: (989) 348-3330

1-2: 22nd Annual Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday,

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday on Newman Street in downtown East Tawas, with more than 100 crafters offering a wide variety of crafts. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com

1-2: Third Folk Art Festival, at Iosco County Historical Museum, with wood

carving, basket weaving, fly-tying, spinning, water color

artists and more, with music provided by Olde Tyme Connection. Info: (989) 362-8911 or www.IoscoMuseum.org

1-2: 37th Annual Harrisville Harmony Weekend, celebrating the 50th

anniversary of Harrisville’s Barbershop and the Sweet Adeline groups, art and craft show with more than 300 booths and a parade at 1 p.m. Sunday. Info: (989) 724-7197

1-3: Labor Day Weekend Sidewalk Sales, starts August 31 at Tanger Outlets

in West Branch. Info: (989) 345-3594 or www.TangerOutlet.com

2: Critter Cash Raffle, to benefit the Alcona County Humane Society. Info: (989) 736-7387

3: 55th Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk, 7 to 11 a.m. across the Mackinac Bridge, starts in St.

Ignace, with bus transportation from Conkling Park and the State Dock in Mackinaw City costs $5, suggested to arrive early, prepared for two-hour, five-mile walk. Info: (906) 943-7600 or www.MackinacBridge.org

3: Annual State Street Bridge Walk in Cheboygan, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., starting on the

east side of the bridge and proceeding to Washington Park for hot dogs, and refreshments. Info: (231) 627-7183

3: The Labor of Logging, 2 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, learn about the work that made

Michigan the nation’s 19th century leader of sawed lumber production; event is free, a state park passport is required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537

3: Stepping Stones Garden Club, Peoples Garden Fair and bulb sale, at Maxon Field in

Onaway. Info: (989) 733-8762

3: Annual Labor Day Formal Ride, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. around Mackinac Island. Info: (906)

847-3853 or www.MackinacHorses.org

5: Book Club, the first Wednesday of every month, 1-2 p.m. at Roscommon Area District Library, this

month discussing The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, by Jamie Ford. Info: (989) 281-1305

5: A Matter of Balance, 9-11 a.m. at the Crawford County Senior Center, an eight-class

series stressing safety for seniors held every Monday and Wednesday through Oct. 3. Info: (989) 348-7123

5: Boomers & Seniors Expo 2012, 2-7 p.m. at the Otsego County Sportsplex, Gaylord, with

services, products and programs to help you through the future. Info: (989) 858-3400 or www.GaylordSeniorExpo.com

6: Deputy Ryan Sequin Memorial Golf Scramble, 9 a.m. registration at River’s

Edge Golf Club, Alpena, with proceeds to benefit law enforcement agencies. Info: (989) 354-4312

6: Cruise Night, 5-8 p.m. at Culver’s in Gaylord, classic car season finale. Info: (989)

448-8300

6: AARP Safe Driver Safety Program, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Crawford County Commission

on Aging and Senior Center, a classroom refresher for drivers aged 50 and over, cost is $14 for non-members, $12 for members. Info and registration: (989) 348-7123

7: Fore Ladies, four player golf scramble for Tolfree Foundation, 9 a.m. shotgun start

at West Branch Country Club, $75 includes 18 holes with cart, breakfast, luncheon and prizes. Info: (989) 343-3700

7: Good Morning Alpena Breakfast, a kick-off to the annual United Way Campaign, 7-8:30


a.m. at the APlex in Alpena, cost is $8. RSVP to Alpena Chamber. Info: (989) 354-4181

7: Open Mic Night, 6-8 p.m. every first Friday at Thanks A Latté in downtown Grayling, show your

talent in music, poetry or literature or just relax and enjoy the show. Info: (989) 348-4006

7-8: Murder Mystery at the Sportsplex, 6 p.m. at the Otsego County Sportsplex

in Gaylord, tickets cost $25, with a cash bar. Info: (989) 731-3546 or www.OCSportsplex.com

7-8: Hopps of Fun, with more than 50 Michigan beers and 40 wines, at

Mackinaw Crossings in downtown Mackinaw City. Info: (231) 436-5030

7-9: 61st Annual Posen Potato Festival, featuring Schmidt Amusements carnival,

a Country Western tent with Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys, polka tent, flea market, antiques show, vendors, parade and more. Info: 989-766-8128 or www.PosenChamber.com

7-9: 14th Annual Hospice of Helping Hands Yard Sale, at the former West

Branch Industries building, just east of West Branch on state highway M-55, with electronics, house wares, furniture, antiques, and no clothes. Info: (800) 992-6592

8: Chippewa Hills Pathway Mountain Bike Race, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. registration,

racing starts at 1 p.m., awards at 3, 13018 Bartz Road, Hubbard Lake, just off Nicholson Hill Road, 18 west of Alpena; registration costs $20 before Sept. 1, $25 after, with custom metals to top five in all classes as well as prize drawings. Info: (989) 727-3702 or www.ThunderBayTrails.org,

8: Huron Pines Pigeon River Habitat Day, noon to 4 p.m. at help diversify aquatic habitat

and help strengthen the Pigeon River; high physical activity, RSVP requested. Info: (989) 448-2293 ext. 21

8: Spud Run 5K Walk/Run, 8 a.m. at Posen Consolidated Schools, $20 per person or $75 per

family. Info: (989) 766-8480

8: Hanson Hills Open, Northern Waters Series Disc Golf Tournament, 8 a.m. registration at

Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, cost is $10 to $45 depending on class, from $10 junior to pro open and masters, playing two rounds of 19 holes. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.NorthernWatersSeries.com

8: A Harvest of Quilts, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cedar Lake Elementary School in Oscoda, with

hundreds of quilts, vendors, raffles, demos and more; admission costs $4. Info: (989) 739-7322

8: 14th Annual Sturgeon for Tomorrow Banquet, 5 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall

in Cheboygan, cost is $25 adults, $15 for 14-and-under, sponsor and big spender packages available. Info: (231) 625-2776 or www.SturgeonForTomorrow.org

8: 42nd Annual Run & Walk Mackinac Island, eight mile run/walk around Mackinac,

starts at 9:30 a.m. at Mission Point Resort, REGISTRATION REQUIRED BEFORE SEPT. 7. Info: (810) 487-0954, (989) 659-6493 or www.RunMackinac.com

8: Mercy Hospice Ramble to the Pines, a run/walk fundraiser, 8 a.m. registration and

start by 10 a.m. from Grayling city hall to the entrance to Hartwick Pines State Park, $25 in pledges earns a free t-shirt, silent auction, raffles and more. Info: 9989) 348-4383

8: Cooking with Chef Eric, 9-11 a.m. at the Alpena Farmers Market, behind City Hall in

Alpena. Info: (989) 356-5995

8: Vintage Base Ball at the Grand Hotel, 10 a.m. at Woodfill Park, Mackinac Island, featuring

Lah De Dah and National Base Ball Clubs of Greenfield

Village, Forest City Base Ball Club of Rockford and the Mackinaw City Boys. Info: (800) 33-GRAND

9: Bridal Show, 1-4 p.m. at Au Gres Chapel in the Park. Info: (989) 240-4615

9: Show and Sell Outdoor Market, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the AuSable River Center Roscommon;

space is free, reservations requested. Info: (989) 275-4392

9: All-U-Can Eat Breakfast, 8 a.m. at Roscommon VFW Post, with pancakes, sausage,

eggs made to order, hash browns, biscuits, sausage gravy, toast, coffee and juice; costs is $6 for adults, $3 10-and-younger, toddlers free. Info: (989) 275-4136

9-12: J22 North American Championship Regatta, hosted

by Tawas Bay Yacht Club, with 50 or more teams from U.S. and Canada. Info: (989) 362-3137

10: Tee Off for Tolfree, 9 a.m. shotgun start at The Nightmare, West Branch, with

registration prior, 18 hole, four player scramble, in men’s or mixed divisions, cost is $75 includes cart breakfast, luncheon and prizes. Info: (989) 343-3700

11: An Afternoon Affair: Music of our Lives, 2-4:30 at Brush Creek Mill, a ladies tea

but gentlemen are invited too; cost is $4 in advance, $5 at the door. Info: (989) 742-2527

11: New to Medicare, 6-7 p.m. at Crawford County Commission on Aging and Senior

Center, a presentation to help demystify the issues surrounding Medicare. Info: (989) 348-7123

12: Alzheimer’s Discussion and Information, a caregiver’s support group

2-3 p.m. every second Wednesday at Sand Road Senior Center, Cheboygan. Info: (231) 238-5165

12: Quilted Postcards Class, 1-4 p.m. with Ruth Hankins at AuSable Artisan Village,

TOUPINTOUPINComputerized Evaluation

and Treatmentof the Spine

n Nutritional Counselingn Cold Lasern Massage Therapyn Reflexology & Ion Cleanse

For more information:toupinchiropractic.com • (989) 348-4560

1406 S I-75 Business Loop, Grayling

Chiropractic Clinic

SPA DAY

October

20th


$50 for non-members, $45 members, materials included, some student-supplied equipment necessary. Info: (989) 312-3660

12: Wertz Warriors Golf Scramble, Stoney Links Golf Course. Info: (989) 733-2874

12: Garland Charity Classic, lunch at 10:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at noon at Garland

Resort in Lewiston, with silent auction, live auction, lunch, dinner and prizes, men’s, women’s and mixed divisions; $125 each with 90-percent of proceeds to local charities. Info: (989) 786-2211

12: Law Enforcement Torch Run, 5K run/bike ride for Special Olympics, 3:30 p.m. at

Fred’s Restaurant in Roscommon, $25 includes T-shirt, transportation and refreshments. Info: (989) 821-5207 ext. 291

12: Sharing Hands and Hearts Prayer Ministry, 1-2:30 at Grace Community

Evangelical Church in Oscoda, an inaugural gathering of knitters and crotchetiers who plan to meet monthly on the second Wednesday for devotion, prayer and community charity. Info: (989) 739-1825

12: Tanger Style Pink Kick-Off, a breast cancer fundraiser for the Seton Cancer Center

at Tanger Outlet Center, West Branch, runs through Oct. 25. Info: (989) 343-2594 or www.TangerOutlet.com

13-16: 33rd Annual Fireman’s Memorial, at the Fireman’s

Training Grounds in Roscommon, with a firefighters trade show, memorial service, rescue and equipment displays, competitions, entertainment and dances, arts and crafts and light parade, admission is free. Info: (989) 275-5880

13: Alpena Grub Crawl, 6-10 p.m. in downtown Alpena, with complimentary food

and drink specials; tickets cost $20. Info: (989) 354-4181

13: Grandparents Day Dinner, 4-6 p.m. at Crawford County Senior Center, cost is $5.25

for under 60 years old, suggested $2.50 for those older. Info: (989) 348-7123

13-16: Texas Hold ‘Em, a Huron Shores Chamber of Commerce

fundraiser at Vista Lanes, Oscoda. Info: (989) 724-5107

14: Huron Pines Rain Garden Planting, 1 to 3 p.m. at Irons Park, West Branch, help

reduce the impact of storm water runoff and learn about native plants; light to moderate physical activity. Info: (989) 448-2293 ext. 21

14: Open Mic, with a potluck at 6:30 and music at 7 p.m. at Comins Community

Center, one block west of M-33 in downtown Comins. Info: (989) 848-2756

14-15: Fall Plow Days, AuSable Valley Engine & Tractor Club, location to

be announced. Info: (989) 826-5920

14-15: Woman to Woman Conference, at the Gaylord

Evangelical Free Church, with workshops for crafts or inspiration, admission cost $50. Info: (888) 684-5272 or www.GaylordEFree.org

14-16: Activity Outdoors Adults Weekend, at Camp Timbers,

West Branch, with boating biking, hayrides, high and low ropes course, zip lines, horse riding, archery, campfires and more, $60 each or as many as 12 adults for $400. Info: (989) 753-7721 or www.CampTimbers.org

14-16: Gladwin Area Art Guild, Fine Art Show, at the Gladwin

Community Center,

15: Thunder on the Strip, 1-6 p.m. at Zettle Memorial Airport in Gladwin, 1/8th mile

street legal drag races, with a 150 vehicle limit, registration costs $25 per vehicle, spectators cost $5. Info: (989) 419-2939 or www.ThunderOnTheStrip.net

15: 7th Annual Northern Rods ‘N Rides Car Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fraternal

Order of the Eagles, Indian River, with trophies plus: best of show, six best original and three people’s choice, public welcome, free admission. Info: (231) 238-5135 or (231) 420-2460

15: Fall Festival On the Farm, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Blue Barn Farm, located on Ridge

Road, two miles north of Gladwin, just east of M-18, with crafters and gift items of all sorts, Amish baked goods, glassware, taxidermy, local honey products, alpaca knit goods, goats milk soaps and lotions, What-the-Buck deer attractant, hand painted items, woven rugs, candles, twig furniture, fresh farm produce and more; entry and booth space are free. Info: (616) 638-3458

15: Evening at a Logging Camp, 7-9 p.m. at Hartwick Pines State Park, journey back to

1896, to Salling, Hanson and Company’s Section 9 logging

camp, meet the people who work there, hear first-hand accounts of what life was like and enjoy hot cocoa around the camp fire; event is free, state park passport required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537

15: Quota Trivia Night, 6-9:30 p.m. at East Tawas Community Building hosted by

Quota International of Iosco County; teams of 8 are$100 per table, themed tables and costumes are welcome and encouraged. Info: (989) 362-8587 or (989) 362-2084

15: Fall Mum Fundraiser, through the end of August at the Alpena Farmers Market, to

raise money for market expansion. Info: (989) 356-5995

15: Folk Art Festival and Country Music Show, at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling,

admission costs $7.50 adults, $5.50 seniors and students, with a $27.50 family maximum. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org

TOUPINTOUPINComputerized Evaluation

and Treatmentof the Spine

n Nutritional Counselingn Cold Lasern Massage Therapyn Reflexology & Ion Cleanse

For more information:toupinchiropractic.com • (989) 348-4560

1406 S I-75 Business Loop, Grayling

Chiropractic Clinic

SPA DAY

October

20th


15: Country Music Show at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, admission

costs $12.50. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org

15: Fall Gourmet Wine Dinner, 4-9 p.m. at Rose Valley Winery in Rose City,

with entertainment by Easy Street; cost is $55 each plus tips, includes food, wine, appetizers, cocktails and entertainment. Info: (989) 685-9399

15-16: 12 & 24 Hours of Hanson Hills, a mountain bike

endurance race at Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Grayling, a Michigan Cup series race, with free swag to first 100 registered, awards to top 10 in all classes, prize drawings for all, and more. Info: (616) 453-4245 or www.FunPromotions.com

15-16: Big Mac Shoreline Scenic Tour, a family-focused event

offering 25, 50, 75 and 100 miles tours around the Straits on Saturday, with a ride across the Mackinac Bridge on Sunday; registration costs $25 after Sept. 1, bridge crossing an additional $20. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.MackinawChamber.com

15-16: Alpena Cycle Club Motocross, 8-10 a.m.

registration at Alpena Cycle Club on Spruce Road, racing at 11:15 a.m., admission costs $6, under-5 are free, racing costs $15 per class. Info: (989) 379-3067

15-16: Civil War Encampment, at Michigan Magazine Museum,

Comins, Info: (989) 826-3196 or (989) 848-2246

15-16: 17th Annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show,

customized semi-trucks with events centered in St. Ignace with a parade of lights across the Mackinac Bridge on Saturday at dusk. Info: (906) 643-8717

16: Clue Board Game Tournament, 1 p.m. at George N. Fletcher Public Library in

Alpena, followed by a showing of the movie Clue. Info: (989) 356-6188 or www.AlpenaLibrary.org

16: Wolverine Mud Bogg, gates open at 8 a.m. at the pit on North Shire Road,

Wolverine, with nine classes, $25 to run, $5 admission, 12-and-younger are free. Info: (231) 240-4267

16: Fall Tractor Pull, at state highway M-211 north of Onaway. Info: (989) 733-2874

18: PATH Workshop on Chronic Pain Management, 1-3:30 p.m. every Tuesday

for six weeks at Devereaux Memorial Library, Grayling; cost is $10. Info: (989) 348-7123

18: Medicare Fraud & Prevention, 6 p.m. at the Crawford County Senior Center

and Commission on Aging, with a presentation by Karl Schreiner, advocacy and resource coordinator for Crawford County Commission on Aging. Info: (989) 348-7123

19: 2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner, Kick-Off to the Crawford County United Way

Campaign, 4-8 p.m. at Fox Run Country Club, $10 per person, $25 for a family of four, discounts for canned good donations, with entertainment and a silent auction. Info: (989) 350-4462

20: Monthly Music Gig, 6-9 p.m. the third Thursday every month at Corwith Township

Hall, in Vanderbilt, everyone is invited to come sing, play an instrument or just enjoy the music of others, event is free, refreshments by donation. Info: (989) 939-4185

21-22: Alcona County Humane Society Annual Garage

Sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the ARA Site in Lincoln. Info: (989) 727-1115

22: Fall Festival of Arts and Crafts, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Westminster Park in Rogers

City, with arts, crafts, music, and a farmers market. Info: (989) 734-7011 or (989) 734-4587

22: Kid’s Day at the Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Alpena Farmers Market, behind City

Hall in Alpena, with music, hayrides, petting zoo, pumpkin carving, cider making, and more. Info: (989) 356-5995

22: Manistee River Clean-Up, meet at Old AuSable Fly Shop at 8:30 a.m. with a

luncheon at 1 p.m.; per-registration requested. Info: (989) 348-3330

22: Harvest Moon Pot Luck, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Emmet County Dark Sky Park,

two miles west of downtown Mackinaw City, offering a celebration of autumn equinox with a shared meal, stargazing and stories of local lore and agricultural practices rooted in the stars. Info: (231) 348-1704 or www.EmmetCounty.org/darkskypark/

22: John Michael Montgomery, 8 p.m. at the Kirtland Center for Performing Arts,

tickets cost $39 or $34, dinner packages for this show and season discounts available. Info: (989) 275-67777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com

Build your own season ticket at Kirtland Center for the Performing

Arts. See two or more premium performances, as many as four value shows, and save up to 30-percent off normal prices. For more information visit www.KirtlandCenter.com or call (989) 275-6777


21-22: Alcona County Humane Society Annual Garage

Sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the ARA Site in Lincoln. Info: (989) 727-1115

22: Fall Festival of Arts and Crafts, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Westminster Park in Rogers

City, with arts, crafts, music, and a farmers market. Info: (989) 734-7011 or (989) 734-4587

22: Kid’s Day at the Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Alpena Farmers Market, behind City

Hall in Alpena, with music, hayrides, petting zoo, pumpkin carving, cider making, and more. Info: (989) 356-5995

22: Manistee River Clean-Up, meet at Old AuSable Fly Shop at 8:30 a.m. with a

luncheon at 1 p.m.; per-registration requested. Info: (989) 348-3330

22: Harvest Moon Pot Luck, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Emmet County Dark Sky Park,

two miles west of downtown Mackinaw City, offering a celebration of autumn equinox with a shared meal, stargazing and stories of local lore and agricultural practices rooted in the stars. Info: (231) 348-1704 or www.EmmetCounty.org/darkskypark/

22: John Michael Montgomery, 8 p.m. at the Kirtland Center for Performing Arts,

tickets cost $39 or $34, dinner packages for this show and season discounts available. Info: (989) 275-67777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com

Build your own season ticket at Kirtland Center for the Performing

Arts. See two or more premium performances, as many as four value shows, and save up to 30-percent off normal prices. For more information visit www.KirtlandCenter.com or call (989) 275-6777

22: Apple Cook Off, 1 to 4 p.m. at Hale area Merchants, part of the Hale Hot Air Balloon

Festival with winners in three categories – appetizer, dessert and main entrée – judged by the public. Try your hand at baking or judging; bottomless mug for tasting costs $7.. Info: (989) 728-2525 or www.HaleYes.org

22: Patron Appreciation Day & Book Sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Tawas City Library,

U-Pick the book, U-pick the price, with proceeds to benefit the Author Quest Scholarship. Info: (989) 362-6557

22: Inaugural River House Road Rally, 9-11 a.m. registration at Ole Barn in

Grayling, with the ride across four counties to follow, $25 includes a T-shirt and prize drawing. Info: (989) 348-3169

22: Fall Fest Arts Crafts Show, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Westminster Park in Rogers City, with

crafts, farmer market, family fun. Info: (989) 734-8446

22: 35th Annual Gun Show, at Northland Sportsmen’s Club in Gaylord, admission is $4

adult, under-12 are free. Info: (989) 732-6389 or www.NorthlandSportsmensClub.org

22-23: Hot Air Balloon Festival, at Iosco County Fairgrounds in Hale,

with balloon flights, balloon glow, kids games and rides, cooking contests, wine tasting, taste of Hale, classic car show, antique snowmobiles, art battle and silent auction, live entertainment and more. Info: www.HaleYes.org

22-23: 15th Annual Pumpkin Run, at Walmart in Houghton

Lake, custom and classic car show and ride, registration costs $20 with dash plaques and goodie bags to the first 200 registrants. Info: (989) 366-5644 (see this issues center fold)

23-29: 3rd Annual Mackinac Island Restaurant Week,

to highlight Mackinac Island as a dining destination, no passes, coupons or tickets required, prex fixe menus at participating restaurants all week. Info: (800) 454-5227

25: Community Read, The History of the Mystery Novel, 7 p.m. at the Alpena George

N. Fletcher Public Library. Info: (989) 356-6188 or www.AlpenaLibrary.org

26: Land Guardian Photography Club, field trip to the Jordan Valley, 5:30 p.m. meet

at HeadWaters Land Conservancy office at 110 South Elm Street in Gaylord. Info: (989) 731-0573 or www.HeadWatersConservancy.com

26: Huron Pines Invasive Phragmites Removal, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Alpena

County, help remove an invasive phragmites stand in Alpena while learning about the ecology of invasive species; light to moderate physical activity. Info: (989) 448-2293 ext. 21

27: Annual Fall Card Party, 5 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall, Hamilton Road,

Alpena, with soups, sandwiches, desserts, beverages, raffles, prizes and more. Info: (989) 356-1978

27-7: Man of La Mancha, Fridays and Saturdays 7:30, Sundays at 2 p.m. at

Thunder Bay Theatre. Info: (989) 354-2267 or www.ThunderBayTheatre.com

28-30: 28th Annual Elk festival, Atlanta, featuring a craft fair,

music and entertainment, with a beer tent, live music with Knockin’ Joe Band, greased pig, pizza eating, children’s trike race, Elk Fest Auction, talent contest, motorcycle rodeo and much more. Info: (989) 785-4509 or www.AtlantaMichiganChamber.com

28-30: Halloween Weekend at Otsego Lake County Park,

for campers only, reservations required, with hayrides, pumpkin scramble, trick-or-treat and more. Info: (989) 731-6448 or www.OtsegoCountyParksRec.com

29: Bump Run, 4 p.m. at the Montmorency County Fairgrounds. Info: (989) 785-3696

29: Curran Black Bear Festival, with a craft show, car show, motorcycle rally, horse pull,

food and entertainment. Info: (989) 848-7593

29: Keep on Dancing, a conference for cancer survivors, caregivers and loved ones, 9 a.m.

to 3:30 p.m. at the APlex in Alpena. Info: (989) 356-3231 or www.FriendsTogetherMI.org

29-30: Northern Michigan Lamb and Wool Festival, at the

Ogemaw County Fair Grounds, with fiber arts galore, plus fiber art classes, vendors, sheep and pasture management

classes, pasture tour, and more. Info: (989) 345-2434 or www.LambAndWoolFestival.com


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By JERRY NUNNeditor

IOSCO COUNTY – More and more bird watchers extol Lake Huron’s beach and this county’s shoreline structure for their attractiveness to large numbers and wide varieties of birds.

It appears that birds in greater numbers are sharing those sentiments.

This year, three pairs of the piping plover choose this county’s beaches as a place to build their nests.

And apparently for good cause.All three nests were successful,

fledging a total of four of the skittish, long-legged shore birds.

“I like to say that we had quite a plover summer,” said Peggy Ridgway AuSable Valley Audubon member and founder of the Tawas Point Birding Festival. “Not only did we have three nests of piping plovers, two at Tawas Point and one at AuSable Shoreline Park in Oscoda, but we had the only nests of piping plovers on the Lake Huron side of Michigan.”

Ridgway’s plover summer is certainly a rarity.

Listed as endangered in the Great Lakes Region, the piping plover is considered threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in other areas of its range – the Atlantic Coast and Northern Great Plains.

In 1984 only 12 breeding pairs of piping plover remained in the Great Lakes region. By 2008 the numbers of breeding adults had increased to 63 pairs, with 53 pair nesting in Michigan and 10 pair nesting in neighboring states and Canada.

Wildlife officials credit a cadre of volunteers who help out with the bird’s recovery program by watching after the nests and educating the public about the plover’s plight.

Those folks include Audubon members like Ridgway, as well as many others.

“The thing we try to encourage most is to not disrupt the nest,” said Leisa Sutton, chamber director for Oscoda-AuSable Chamber of Commerce, whose office adjoins the township park where the northern-most pair of birds nested.

A small bird, 6 to 7 inches long, the piping plover is sand colored above with white under parts, yellow legs and a short neck.

Dangers to the birds include wild animals and domestic pets, beach walkers and other human traffic, according to Sutton. The birds are also susceptible to storms, waves and high water and one of this year’s successful pair at Tawas Point lost two.

Like the more common killdeer, the piping plover are graceful birds that run in fits, stopping often to look for insects. Like other plovers,


the piping plover will feign injury and set up a raucous display to attract attention away from its nest.

To further help protect the birds a small enclosure is placed around the nests.

Those who were most helpful in protecting the AuSable Township nest were various owners of the condominiums overlooking the park and beach, Sutton says.

“Those people from the condo association really assumed ownership and watched out for the birds,” Sutton said, noting from the time the piping plovers were recognized, through their mating, nesting and brooding process, a month-and-a-half period had passed. “It was fantastic to watch the whole process.”

Of particular interest to all was the time of hatching. Within 20 minutes of entering the world, the little birds are running up and down the beach.

“They are small, but it is amazing how fast they are,” said Chuck Allen, manager at Tawas Point State Park. Allen experienced the bird’s speed first hand when he helped graduate students from the University of Minnesota band the birds. “Not only are they fast, they’re running all over the place.”

For the parent birds, Ridgway likens the ordeal to “having instant teenagers.”

“These poor parents. The babies are like ping-pong balls with legs,” Ridgway said. “Here they are

running helter-skelter all over the place.”

An avid birder, Ridgway says the opportunity to watch over the plovers was a “phenomenal experience; the chance of a lifetime.”

Yet, as much as she enjoyed watching the birds, she enjoyed her interactions with the public more. On the busiest days Ridgway said she and other volunteers spoke to as many as 250 or 300 visitors to the beach.

“That was the part that was best,” Ridgway said, noting her group handed out pamphlets and spoke to nearly all who approached or used the beach. “Just about everyone we talked to, from people

strolling the beach to the kite boarders who use

Tawas Point, were wonderful.”

Sometimes that interaction called for the plover overseers to share a glimpse of the birds through their binoculars, Ridgway says.

“These birds are

wonderfully camouflaged.

Most people are never able to see

one on a beach, yet you’d see people, when

they saw the bird, they’d have an ‘aha’ moment,” Ridgway said. “You could tell they really got it, that they understood why we were there.”

Photos byROGER ERIKKSON


While it is rare to find piping plovers at Tawas Point, Oscoda Shoreline Park and elsewhere along the Great Lakes Shoreline, another occurrence at Tawas Point is probably viewed by even fewer people – the autumn migration flight of the monarch butterfly.

Come mid-September or so the regal black and orange insects check in at Tawas Point for an overnight stay as they make their way 2,000 miles south to their winter haven in Mexico.

Catch the right day, says Tawas Point Park Manager Chuck Allen, and you may find them en masse, numbering 3,000 or more butterflies.

“It’s amazing,” Allen said. “Sometimes it looks like leaves on the trees but it’s not, it’s butterflies.”

Peggy Ridgway, whose AuSable Valley Audubon group has helped tag the migrating butterflies for scientific study, said she has seen people walk right under a tree full of the monarchs and not even realize they are there.

“They look just like leaves,

fluttering in the breeze. They are very elusive,” Ridgway said, recalling the scene as a dozen adults leapt about Tawas Point trying to net a monarch. “You have to be pretty fast to catch one.”

Ridgway says you have to be attentive to catch the migration.

“It’s a one day deal,” Ridgway says. “They spread their wings to warm up. When they left, four or five started to fly then the rest took off. These guys took off right over the bay. They were gone in about a minute.”

The cover photo in this issue of TheGuideshowsthemassbutterflygathering at Tawas Point. It was taken by Denise Willis of Sunrise Side Snapshots.

Flutter flightPhoto by LARRY VanWAGONER


Flutter flightPampered Beef Photo by KATHY NEFF

By JERRY NUNNeditor

FAIRVIEW – Tom Trimmer’s beef cattle production venture, Pampered Beef, is aptly named, coined by his former partner, the late Virgil Abbe. Back when they started, Abbe made pets of all his cows and, still today, Trimmer’s herd of angus-cross cattle live in relative bovine luxury, ranging their grassy pasture.

Yet, when Trimmer set out a few years ago to supply his Oscoda County community with natural beef that was hormone and antibiotic-free, he and his partner could not gain attention no matter how hard they tried.

“Originally, when we started

this so called healthier beef, no one cared,” Trimmer said. “We ran ads on the radio, we gave away a half a cow, we even had a cook book. All the promotion we did? Nothing worked. It wasn’t that important to people.”

Fortunately for Trimmer there has been a shift in consciousness towards healthier food.

Now he has a hard time meeting demand.

“In the last two years there has been an awakening,” Trimmer said. “Suddenly everyone is paying attention to what they eat. They want to know where their food comes from.”

It was out of necessity in 1999 that Trimmer entered the additive-free beef market, after


bovine tuberculosis turned up in Northeast Michigan.

Prior to that, Trimmer raised “stockers” – 500 to 600 pound beef cattle that were sold off to be finished out to their 1,200 pound final weight by someone else. Those sales took place in stockyards centrally located in the state, an area free of bovine T.B.

“After T.B. came around, I couldn’t sell a thing,” Trimmer says, noting the fear that farmers elsewhere had of spreading bovine tuberculosis. “They wouldn’t touch my cattle with a 10-foot pole.”

So Trimmer teamed up with Virgil Abbe and Tom Brunink, formed Pampered Beef and the trio tried their hand at selling natural beef. Abbe passed away three years ago, and Brunink moved back to his native Falmouth in 2004, leaving Trimmer as Pampered Beef’s sole proprietor or, as it claims on his business card, the company’s Head Honcho.

The extra care that Trimmer

gives his cattle shows in his customer list.

AuSable Valley Restaurant in Mio purchases all its beef from Pampered Beef.

“People like the idea that it is raised locally and that it is all natural,” said manager Ann Galbraith. From a cattle farming family herself, Galbraith says she “knows good beef.”

“Tom’s beef is so good you can’t not use it,” she said.

Other names on the list normally make perennial appearances, Trimmer says, calling the local

grocery store his best advertiser.“Once people get their meat

there and then try mine, they never go back to the grocery store,” Trimmer said, echoing recent documentary films claims that modern, large scale meat processing is targeted more at profit than it is at quality of product.

“You never know what’s in

that stuff,” he said.In addition to pre-ordered

beef sales, Trimmer sells beef at Nature’s Best Farmers Market, held every Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Fairview.

“I sell a lot of steaks there,” Trimmer said. “Ribeyes, T-bone, porterhouse, New York strips. It shocked me that everyone wanted these big steaks, except little old ladies. They want the little petite steaks. They are cheap, but they are tender.”

While business is finally good, Pampered Beef is still subject to the vagaries of the agriculture market. From that stand point, the recent high price of grain and hay has Trimmer feeling more than a little nervous.

“A few years back, when the recession hit, I lost my shirt,” Trimmer said, noting the price of grain is already high and predicted to go higher. “That’s what scares me now.”

While his cattle are pastured when grass is available, they are still fed hay and corn silage during

the winter, and while Trimmer’s costs of grain and hay are fixed for the most part, there is likely a limit that consumers will pay for beef.

“I am almost embarrassed now to tell people how much it costs,” Trimmer said.

As it stands now, in late August, Pampered Beef sells for

$3.15 per pound hanging weight, or about $4.50 a pound for fully processed beef purchased by the quarter or half.

So far price has not hampered sales and Trimmer suggests potential customers order sides or quarters of beef six months in advance.

As pampered as his cows are, Trimmer pampers his customers as well.

Buy a Pampered Beef and Trimmer transports the cow to the USDA inspected Ebels General Store in Falmouth, where it is processed, vacuum packed and frozen to your specifications.

When processing is complete Trimmer delivers the beef to the customer’s door.

“That’s what makes it nice, I get to deal directly with my customers,” Trimmer said, noting he recently had a customer visit the farm to see the operation first hand. “I even offered to let them pick out the cow they wanted. Of course, they look that cow in the eyes and they don’t want to do that.”

Pampered Beef

locally grown Natural Beef

(989) 350-6729

[email protected]

Tom Trimmer, owner of Pampered Beef, has found the market for natural, hormone-free beef to be large and growing.



By JERRY NUNNeditor

CLARE COUNTY – Traipse the varied landscape surrounding Brookhaven Lake and you’ll encounter near-endless monuments to fly fishing’s colored past and the conservation of Northern Michigan’s natural resources. Names of authors, artists and famous fly fishers, carved in wood, decorate the forest trail, causing visitors here to reflect on the work of pioneers who’ve bettered the sport of fly fishing and promoted the preservation of Michigan’s great outdoors.

Yet central to this commemorative concept lies

Brookhaven Lake itself, where calm frigid waters harbor a monument of an undeniable historic sort: a living population of Arctic grayling.

Those silver-sided, sail-finned fish living in Brookhaven Lake are Michigan’s first wild grayling in nearly a century – a living memorial to the late George Johnson, dedicated by his son Jeff Johnson and grandson Michael Johnson.

An avid fly fisherman, who passed his love of the sport and of nature down to his offspring, George Johnson, a retired Royal Oak homicide detective died in 2010 having never caught a grayling.

“As kids, we used to go to the Grayling Restaurant and see the stuffed one on the wall,” Jeff Johnson said. “My dad always thought it was too bad we had to go to a restaurant to see one of these

historic fish.”While the

property is held in honor of historic figures from the past, it also stands in trust of future generations. Those wooded monuments

are ready to greet the throngs of school kids, scouts, 4-H’ers and other youth organizations

that Johnson hopes will tour Brookhaven. In time, Johnson plans to erect a log cabin-style building to serve as fly fishing and conservation museum, he said.

“Our hope is that well-heeled fly fishermen will rent the lake so that the kids can fish for free,” Johnson said. “What we’re trying to do is get kids off the computer and outside. We want to educate them on the sport of fly fishing and teach them

that is something you can pass down to their own children. You don’t have to be in great physical shape to fly fish, it’s not like football or basketball.

“You can have arthritis and still ride in a river boat. You can still cast a fly.”

A “kettle lake,” formed by receding glaciers, Brookhaven Lake is small and shaded, its spring-fed waters stay about 50-degrees year

round, according to Johnson. He said he and Michael searched for two years for the perfect body of water, before buying this piece of property in 2010.

Grayling were planted here for the

first time last spring and more will go into the lake shortly, according to Vince Schulz, owner of Blue Springs Fish Farm in Gladwin.

It was Schulz and his nephew Scott whom Johnson chose to raise his fish and the pair spent the better part of a year learning all they could about the extremely particular grayling.

“Grayling are a very difficult fish to raise. They need very clean, very

An Arctic grayling fresh caught from Brookhaven Lake is destined for a speedy return to the frigid waters. One look at the fish and it’s hard to deny its rightful nicknames: northern sail fish, Michigan big fin, lady of the river, among others.

In addition to monetary support, which they hopewillcomebywayofguidedfishing

tours for record brook trout and Arctic grayling, Jeff and Michael Johnson are also looking for donations of old loggingtools,fishingparaphernaliaandotherremindersof Michigan history.

While they welcome anglers of all sorts, they are inviting to youngsters, to tour Brookhaven’s property andfishinBrookhavenLake.

BrookhavenLakeisopentofishingbyreservationonly from April 1 to July 8, and Sept. 1 to Nov. 30. Beginners are welcome, lessons and guide services are available, a drift boat and all equipment are included, and no license is necessary. Youngsters and families may receive special pricing.

For more information on Brookhaven Lake go online to www.Brookhaven-Lake.com

“ We’ve literally caught 24-inch, four-pound brookies.

“Basically, this is just like Canada but without the black flies. ”

— Jeff Johnson


that is something you can pass down to their own children. You don’t have to be in great physical shape to fly fish, it’s not like football or basketball.

“You can have arthritis and still ride in a river boat. You can still cast a fly.”

A “kettle lake,” formed by receding glaciers, Brookhaven Lake is small and shaded, its spring-fed waters stay about 50-degrees year

round, according to Johnson. He said he and Michael searched for two years for the perfect body of water, before buying this piece of property in 2010.

Grayling were planted here for the

first time last spring and more will go into the lake shortly, according to Vince Schulz, owner of Blue Springs Fish Farm in Gladwin.

It was Schulz and his nephew Scott whom Johnson chose to raise his fish and the pair spent the better part of a year learning all they could about the extremely particular grayling.

“Grayling are a very difficult fish to raise. They need very clean, very

cold water,” said Vince Schulz, noting that it was those narrow parameters the grayling demands of its environment that doomed the fish in the wild.

As lumbermen cleared the trees across the north, using the state’s waterways to move those logs, stream banks were eroded, allowing sand to flush into the rivers and disrupt the grayling’s spring breeding. At the same time, logging cleared the river banks of trees, allowing the sun to warm the water.

In fact Schulz’ first attempt to raise the fish met limited success because his water contained too much dissolved iron. Blue Springs now uses a special filtration system, installed just for the Grayling.

And Blue Spring was discovered only after a lengthy search, according to Johnson.

“I’ll tell you, we looked all over,” Johnson said. “We needed someone who was passionate about what they did. We found that in Vince and Scott. At his place, you could literally eat off the floor it is that spotless.”

Fishing in Brookhaven Lake is strictly catch and release, Johnson said, though he admits that youngsters may get to keep a portion of their catch. Regardless of whether fishermen get to keep their catch, any self-respecting angler ought to feel enthused just fishing here.

“So far we’ve caught 17 grayling. They are averaging 11-inches so far,” Johnson said.

“But we have some huge brook trout. We’ve literally caught 24-inch,

four-pound brookies.“Basically, this is just like

Canada but without the black flies.” Perhaps that comparison to our

northern neighbor is true with the fishing.

As far as the Brookhaven property’s educational aspect, that may be hard to find anywhere else.

As students wander the trails and glimpse the names of Michigan’s fishing and conservation trailblazers, they’ll also find lumber tools and other trinkets that are linked to the state’s history. With luck, Johnson says, the discovery will spark a hidden interest.

“This is honoring the people who’ve gone before us,” Johnson said. “I’m hoping that one day, some kid who goes through there becomes inspired, and becomes the next Rusty Gates,” Johnson said, citing Gate’s name as a leading conservationist. “It’s possible. It really is

“It’s always one or two people who change the world. It’s not done by committee or corporations,” Johnson said.

There is nothing to stop that change from starting at Brookhaven. In the case of the grayling, change has already begun.

Small and frigid, the spring-fed Brookhaven Lake is able to host a population of Arctic grayling, a fish that was once widespread in Michigan but has been extinct in the state for the past 80 years.

1 5 t h A n n u a lP u m p k i n R u n

C a r S h o w & C r u i s eSaturday Sept. 22

Registration - 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.DJ & Karaoke - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cruise starts at 4 p.m.

Sunday Sept. 23Registration - 7 to 11 a.m.

DJ & Karaoke - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Awards Ceremony 3 p.m.

Held in the Walmart parking lot2129 West Houghton Lake Drive

Houghton Lake

Early registration $18 or $20 after Sept. 1Goodie bags and dash plaques to the fi rst 200 registered

Info: (989) 366-5644

A Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce eventwww.HoughtonLakeChamber.net

1 5 t h A n n u a lP u m p k i n R u n

C a r S h o w & C r u i s eSaturday Sept. 22

Registration - 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.DJ & Karaoke - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cruise starts at 4 p.m.

Sunday Sept. 23Registration - 7 to 11 a.m.

DJ & Karaoke - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Awards Ceremony 3 p.m.

Held in the Walmart parking lot2129 West Houghton Lake Drive

Houghton Lake

Early registration $18 or $20 after Sept. 1Goodie bags and dash plaques to the fi rst 200 registered

Info: (989) 366-5644

A Houghton Lake Chamber of Commerce eventwww.HoughtonLakeChamber.net


By SAMUEL PRENTICEwatershed project manager for Huron Pines

OSCODA COUNTY – It was early summer, late May. I was stepping into the AuSable River for the first time. More than stepping into the river, I was trying my luck at catching the elusive brown trout using a fly rod I received as a birthday gift from my mother and father after moving to Northeast Michigan.

I was surprised at how cold the water was and how refreshing it felt to wade downstream of the point where I chose to access the river. The water rejuvenated me from a hard day’s work and raised my awareness of what a special place this was.

As I looked back upstream to ensure I knew where to exit the water, I saw sand and other material from the bank sloughing into the

water, turning the cold clear waters of the AuSable into what looked like a mixture of chocolate syrup and milk.

Fishing past nightfall, I decided to head back to the access point, prepared for what was sure to be an early morning. With only the moonlight to guide my return, I chose to leave the river and travel back on land. My waders pushed more of the bank into the river, forming the chocolate milk mixture once more.

I did not leave the AuSable River with any trout that night, but what I did leave with was a better understanding of why people value this great Michigan resource and what we can do to protect it.

The AuSable River is a destination for recreationists of all kinds.

Every spring and summer, thousands of people float or fish a stretch of the AuSable River known as the “Big Water,” from Mio to Alcona Pond. While enjoying the river is something everyone shares, eroding streambanks from heavy

Conservation groups team with Huron Pines to improve river access along the AuSable River


traffic can take a toll on this great resource. Not only do these eroding access points pose a safety concern over time to river users, they also pose a threat to fish and other organisms that rely on clear, cold water and pristine gravel beds for feeding and reproduction.

Conservation partners in the area decided to address these concerns in 2012.

Huron Pines, a conservation nonprofit that serves the 11 counties of Northeast Michigan, received funding from the U.S. Forest Service to coordinate and manage the restoration of six river access sites in Oscoda County. The AuSable Big Water Preservation Association was responsible for selecting these six access sites using recently completed erosion surveys, providing funding and recruiting volunteers as well.

An impressive planning effort

then followed.After a lot of hard work, some

long days and the exchange of many fishing stories, great relationships have been sustained between community partners and some great restoration work was completed.

Thomas Buhr and Kevin Foerster of the AuSable Big Water Preservation Society rallied volunteers. The Challenge Chapter of Trout Unlimited helped their

favorite fishing access sites. The U.S. Forest Service work crew worked long days including weekends and made sure what we needed was ready when we needed it.

The work, which Buhr called “the largest grassroots restoration project on this section of the river in many years,” will go a long way to reduce sediment from entering the river. It will also provide a safe

access point to river users in the hopes that they too, can appreciate this great river as much as I did in my first fly fishing experience.

By the end of September, work on the sites will be finished.

However, this doesn’t mean our work is complete.

There are many other eroded areas where people access the river that need the same attention. This group of conservation partners is hoping to work on more of these access sites in Oscoda County along the AuSable River in 2013.

That was teamwork! Conservation partners and volunteers come together to create a bucket brigade while building a stairway to improve access to the river and reduce erosion.

The finished terrace stairway at Buttercup Campground on the Au Sable River. This stairway replaced the eroded bank that was depositing large amounts of sediment directly into the river, degrading aquatic habitat and posing a safety threat.

Huron Pines would like to say thank you to the organizations and volunteers who made this work possible.

To learn more about the river access restoration project, as well as the many other projects and programs that Huron Pines coordinates or takes part in, visit Huron Pines on line at

www.HuronPines.org


By CHARLES BENDIGspecial to The Guide

STURGEON POINT — One of the many things that makes the Great Lakes amazing is their dynamic use as both a fresh water supply and a commercial waterway. Over the centuries, the natural environment has allowed for the push westward and the development of cities like Detroit, Chicago, Green Bay, and Duluth. And, over time the

growth of shipping across the Great Lakes led to more and more traffic.

Without proper navigation this led to a series of wrecks such as the number located off the northeast coast of Michigan in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. But ships that have been lost beneath the surface are not without their own purposes as time capsules of America’s maritime history.

The Marine City is one of these time capsules and offers a glimpse into Northeast Michigan’s fascinating past.

Today the Marine City rests on the bottom of Lake Huron two and a half miles southeast of Alcona, Michigan. The 192-foot vessel was built in 1866 as a barge with a plain white bow and a round stern. In the following year Marine City was converted to a one-deck side-wheeler. The engine was a vertical walking beam from the ship Ark and could produce up to 80 horsepower. The City was noted as having 696 gross tons in order to carry passengers and freight cargo.

During the course of Marine

photo courtesy of Thunder Bay Sanctuary Research Collection

Marine CityVessel Type: Single deck side-wheelerDimensions: 192’ length, with a 28’ beamGross Tonnage: 695Propulsion: Steam

Built: 1866 by P.L. and Arnold Lester at Marine City, MichiganWrecked: August 29, 1880Location: N44°46.237’ W83°17.366’

Marine CityTime capsule of history

The paddle wheeler Marine City burned on August 29, 1880 off Sturgeon Point, resulting in the deaths of nine passengers and crew. While the Marine City’s hull and machinery can still be found, it now lies in fragments, in shallow water one mile north of Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, not far from shore.

City’s life on the Great Lakes the ship encountered a number of obstacles and changes in ownership.

By 1868, the vessel was owned by River & Lakeshore Steamboat Line and operated between Detroit and Mackinac. In July of 1869, the ship broke the main crankshaft and had to head to Detroit for repairs. In 1875, the Marine City was under the ownership of Michigan Transportation Company when it almost capsized off Sturgeon Point.

The real blow to the City would not come until five years later. After departing Alcona, Michigan in 1880 Marine City was carrying 158 passengers, several tons of shingles, railroad ties, and 100 tons of salt fish. Suddenly, at approximately 3:30 in the afternoon, smoke and flames were seen coming from the hurricane deck around the smoke stack.

The tug Vulcan saw the smoke while heading up bound on Lake Huron about two miles away and came to Marine City’s aid. Another tug, the Grayling, was leaving Black River with a raft in tow. Grayling’s captain immediately cut the raft in order to head to the aid of the Marine City. Assisting the crew of the Sturgeon Point Life Saving Station, the citizens of Alcona used two rowboats to bring survivors to shore. These Life Saving Stations were the earliest version of the U.S. Coast Guard and were located at strategic points across the Great Lakes.

Because of the quick response from several vessels most of the passengers and crew of the Marine City survived. In the following days it was reported three crewmen and anywhere between 6 to 27


Today the Marine City rests on the bottom of Lake Huron two and a half miles southeast of Alcona, Michigan. The 192-foot vessel was built in 1866 as a barge with a plain white bow and a round stern. In the following year Marine City was converted to a one-deck side-wheeler. The engine was a vertical walking beam from the ship Ark and could produce up to 80 horsepower. The City was noted as having 696 gross tons in order to carry passengers and freight cargo.

During the course of Marine

City’s life on the Great Lakes the ship encountered a number of obstacles and changes in ownership.

By 1868, the vessel was owned by River & Lakeshore Steamboat Line and operated between Detroit and Mackinac. In July of 1869, the ship broke the main crankshaft and had to head to Detroit for repairs. In 1875, the Marine City was under the ownership of Michigan Transportation Company when it almost capsized off Sturgeon Point.

The real blow to the City would not come until five years later. After departing Alcona, Michigan in 1880 Marine City was carrying 158 passengers, several tons of shingles, railroad ties, and 100 tons of salt fish. Suddenly, at approximately 3:30 in the afternoon, smoke and flames were seen coming from the hurricane deck around the smoke stack.

The tug Vulcan saw the smoke while heading up bound on Lake Huron about two miles away and came to Marine City’s aid. Another tug, the Grayling, was leaving Black River with a raft in tow. Grayling’s captain immediately cut the raft in order to head to the aid of the Marine City. Assisting the crew of the Sturgeon Point Life Saving Station, the citizens of Alcona used two rowboats to bring survivors to shore. These Life Saving Stations were the earliest version of the U.S. Coast Guard and were located at strategic points across the Great Lakes.

Because of the quick response from several vessels most of the passengers and crew of the Marine City survived. In the following days it was reported three crewmen and anywhere between 6 to 27

passengers perished from the fire and waves.

The Marine City is just one of hundreds of vessels in and around Thunder Bay. To date, more than 50 shipwrecks have been discovered within the sanctuary and an additional 30 wrecks have been located outside of the sanctuary boundaries.

Although the sheer number of shipwrecks is impressive, it is the range of vessel types located in the sanctuary that makes the collection nationally significant. From an 1844 side-wheel

steamer to a modern 500-foot-long German freighter, the shipwrecks of Thunder Bay represent a microcosm of maritime commerce and travel on the Great Lakes. Northeastern Michigan’s maritime landscape includes the hundreds of shipwrecks located on Lake Huron bottomlands. But Michigan’s history also encompass all of the cultural and natural features related to maritime heritage. Lifesaving stations, lighthouses, historic boats and ships, commercial fishing camps, docks and working ports are among the more obvious historic and archaeological features.

Many features are less visible and some remain unrecognized or unknown.

Humans have used the waters of Thunder Bay and its shores for thousands of years. Geological and archaeological evidence suggests a high probability of prehistoric archaeological sites awaiting discovery. In addition to helping to protect and interpret individual sites, managing the sanctuary as a maritime cultural landscape reveals

a broad historical canvas that can encompass many different perspectives to foster an interconnected understanding of the maritime past. The state’s cultural landscape allows Thunder Bay’s maritime heritage to continue to unfold as new discoveries are made and encourages an increasingly diverse public to find shared meaning in this nationally and internationally significant place.

— Charles Bendig is a Cooperative Institute for Limnology and Ecosystems Research fellow at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena. Charles has worked on various archaeological projects from Hawaiian temples to shipwrecks in the Florida Keys. He is currently enrolled as a graduate student at the University of West Florida.

Follow Thunder Bay Marine SanctuaryFacebook: facebook.com/ThunderBayShipwrecks

Twitter: twitter.com/ThunderBayWreck

YouTube: youtube.com/TBNMS


By JON PAUL ROYspecial to The Guide

EAST TAWAS – Raymond Klinger is a man of dedication and experience.

A cobbler by trade, Ray’s work ethic shows in his rough and weathered hands, still strong after nearly a century of hard use. You hear his love of life in the hearty laughter after each story he tells.

Ray Klinger is a man of dedication and experience.

He has lived in East Tawas for all of the 97 years of his life. He began work as a cobbler at the age of 14, and retired only last year. Married

to his wife Ardis, who passed away earlier this year, for 73 years, Ray is the father of seven, the grandfather of 52.

Ray witnessed the impact on this community of every war dating back to World War I. He’s seen just about everything, and can tell you a book’s worth on how the times change, and how they don’t.

When Ray’s family came to the Tawas area, shortly before his birth, the population was around 1,500. His father had come to work for the principle employer of the community, D&M railroad.

The physical nature of work of the day could be seen in Ray’s uncle, John, a D&M laborer who shoveled coal. When John died, he had to be placed diagonally in the casket, to compensate for the extreme difference in the size of his arms after a career spent shoveling coal.

Ray began his career during the

The life and times of Ray Klinger Master cobbler and Tawas native

SOME SECRETS WERE MEANT TO BE SHAREDStay & Play on Tawas Bay in 2012!

www.TawasBay.com • 877-TO-TAWASTawas Point Haunted Lighhouse Weekend

October 19 & 20Features carnival games and prizes for kids, costumed characters, hayrides, spooky cemetery. Take part in daytime and nighttime lighthouse tours and ends with a Monster Bash Dance in the pavilion.

Gateway to Fall Colors22nd Annual

Labor Day Arts & Crafts ShowSeptember 1 & 2

Spanning Northeast Michigan’s busiest highway, Tawas is your gateway to fall colors. From here you can explore the nearby 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.

Set on beautiful Newman Street in East Tawas. More than 100 booths fi lled with various crafts, paintings, furniture, jewelry, and much more. Fun for the whole family! Show times from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Raymond Klinger and his late wife Ardis.


SOME SECRETS WERE MEANT TO BE SHAREDStay & Play on Tawas Bay in 2012!

www.TawasBay.com • 877-TO-TAWASTawas Point Haunted Lighhouse Weekend

October 19 & 20Features carnival games and prizes for kids, costumed characters, hayrides, spooky cemetery. Take part in daytime and nighttime lighthouse tours and ends with a Monster Bash Dance in the pavilion.

Gateway to Fall Colors22nd Annual

Labor Day Arts & Crafts ShowSeptember 1 & 2

Spanning Northeast Michigan’s busiest highway, Tawas is your gateway to fall colors. From here you can explore the nearby 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.

Set on beautiful Newman Street in East Tawas. More than 100 booths fi lled with various crafts, paintings, furniture, jewelry, and much more. Fun for the whole family! Show times from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Huron Shores Walk-In Clinic

The SJHS Walk-In Clinic provides same-day, quality, acute care in a convenient setting. Our dedicated

team of professionals provide care for the diagnosis and management of common illnesses.

When you need non emergent care - look to St. Joseph.

www.sjhsys.org 989-362-0056

Mon. thru Fri. - Noon-7pmSun. - 9am-1pm

summer of 1929. “While the rest of the kids were

out playing ball, I went to work as a shoe repairman,” Ray said. When asked why he chose shoe repair, Ray merely replys, “Well, now, I wasn’t the sharpest lick in the Catholic school.”

Back at school, after class let out for the day, Ray would ride into town on his new bike, a gift his father had puchased for $6.50. There he park the bike in the bicycle shed which housed the transportation of the majority of working men who had to travel into town for their jobs.

Ray eventually took his craft beyond the repair of shoes and into building them himself, making boots and moccasins for friends and family. To this day, one wall of his large garage is filled with the bulky machines and countless specialized tools involved in creating footware.

The love for the art has never left him. “Sometimes I look at them, and think, ‘I’d really like to do that again,’” says Ray, speaking of boots he’s made.

Ray has also seen many remarkable events in this lakeside community over the years.

“I think I was twelve years old; I remember the fire that went through here,” Ray said. “It burned out the stores for one full block.” He also recalls the flat top boat that sunk about a mile out from the coast

guard station when he was 18. “You could see it through the ice until they hauled it out of there.”

The memories of youth that he holds closest are the entertainments of the day, pleasantly simple when

compared with the passtimes of the present.

“We would go to dances on Saturday nights. It didn’t matter where it was, we would go. Or like the county fair in Hale.”

When asked to choose the most outlandish thing he ever saw in all of his time living in Tawas, he picks the Polar Bear Swim of Perchville.

“Jumping in that water with

just a skin suit on, I call that crazy,” Ray said.

Perhaps the most interesting history lesson to impart from Ray’s vast experience is how, though time marches on and sees incredible advancements in technology, social circumstances have certain consistencies.

From the tumult of the Great Depression, Ray remembers how many people were forced to abandon their homes. This prompts him to relay news of a family he knows who just had to do the same thing as a result of the current economic climate, a story repeated endlessly across the nation these past few years.

War, likewise for Ray, points out a recurring trend wherein the loss of innocence and life stay true and only the means of propogating these terrors develops. When asked

what he feels about humanity’s most astounding trial of the modern age, World War II, Ray says this: “It was a horrible thing, you know, because people back then, I don’t think we were too used to war. First there was World War I, then we go into World War II. The things we have to kill people with have been subjected to so many additives. I feel bad for any young man who gets drafted, joins the fight, and then finds out he wants out.”

On the other hand, Ray sees the good in much of society’s technological advancement. After a lifetime of witnessing the evolution of industry in his own field, he believes in the potential for positive change across all crafts and employments.

“The shoes we have today, they’re remarkable. Who wouldn’t like a nice, new, shiny automobile? Shoes are the same.”

From the age of 14 Ray Klinger spent his entire working life - 82 years - repairing shoes in his East Tawas garage.


By DENNIS MANSFIELDspecial to The Guide

GRAYLING – Visitors to the Old AuSable Fly Shop in Grayling are in store for a special treat over the Labor Day weekend.

Jim Enger, 66, of Roscommon is displaying letters and photos of John Voelker, famed author and former Michigan Supreme Court justice during the 1950s, at the fly shop during the holiday weekend, as well as make himself available to talk about them on Saturday, Sept. 1. Under the pen name “Robert Traver,” Voelker wrote the best-selling novel, Anatomy of a Murder, published in 1958.

The book served as the basis of the movie by the same name by

Otto Preminger, starring the likes of Jimmy Stewart, George C. Scott, Lee Remick and Ben Gazzara.

“The movie, based on a real murder case in the U.P. is still considered one of the best courtroom dramas ever made,” said Enger. “When Preminger bought the film rights to the novel, Voelker returned to the U.P. where he was born and raised and continued to write, including two books of fly fishing stories which became classics.

“He is considered Michigan’s best known fly fisherman and fly fishing story teller.”

And Enger knows a thing or two about telling fly fishing stories. In addition to writing for two national

Letters, photos give glimpse into Michigan’s favorite fly fishing storyteller

Anatomy ofa friendship

courtesy photo


fly fishing magazines, Enger penned the book, The Incompleat Angler, A Fly Fishing Odyssey, a collection of stories about his fly fishing adventures from the Arctic Circle to the rain forests of Central America. Enger was also the director of communications for the Detroit Auto Show and worked at various advertising agencies in Florida and

Michigan.But, Enger

said he first came to know Voelker when he owned and operated an Orvis fly fishing shop in Farmington Hills. After Voelker became a customer of Enger’s, the two continued to

exchange letters. The relationship continued after Enger was named the regional editor of a fly fishing magazine.

“That’s what really connected us,” he said.

The idea to display the photos and letters from Voelker came about

during a discussion Enger said he once had with Jeff Gardner, who along with his partner, Linda Matas, own the Old Au Sable Fly Shop.

“I had mentioned that I had known Voelker for many years, both of us writing for the same national fly fishing magazines,”

he said. “I mentioned that I had some 90 letters from Voelker, written between 1975 and 1991, plus many photos of Voelker taken at his secluded fishing camp in the U.P., where I fished with him for many years.

“The last letter I received from him was dated March 18, 1991, mailed the day he died, which I found in my mailbox when I returned from his funeral in the U.P.,”

Enger added.“At that time I was living in Traverse City.”

Gardner and Matas wondered if Enger would be willing to share his material with Voelker’s many fly fishing fans.

Enger said he readily agreed and, in some small way, hopes the program will help honor Michigan’s best fly fishing storyteller and to keep his writing and name alive in the fly fishing world. The letters and photographs will be on display during normal shop hours the entire Labor Day weekend. There is no admission charge.

The Old AuSable Fly Shop is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information contact the Old AuSable Fly Shop at 989-348-3330 or visit online at www.OldAuSable.com.

JimEngerwillreflectonhisfriendship with John Voelker

Letters fromFrenchman’s Pond— A Tribute to Robert Traver, pen name of author John Voelker

When: September 1-2

Where: the Old AuSable Fly Shop in Grayling

What you’ll find there: photographs, letters and books on display, and a visit on Saturday with long-time Voelker friend, Jim Enger

Info: (989) 348-3330


MACKINAW CITY – Each day thousands of motorists cross the five-mile span that is the Mackinaw Bridge, as they travel between the state’s Upper and Lower peninsulas.

But, only once a year do people have the opportunity to make that very same trip on foot. This year, that opportunity is on Labor Day during the 55th Annual Mackinac

Bridge Walk on Monday, Sept. 3.The walk begins at 7 a.m., with

Gov. Rick Snyder and his party starting the walk from the St. Ignace end of the bridge. There is no fee or registration for the event, although bus transportation from Mackinaw City back to St. Ignace is $5 per person (infants are free).

Sandra Westover, college student and mother of four from the Frederic area in Crawford County, has made the walk at least five times. And, she’s planning for a sixth.

“The view is gorgeous,” Westover said, adding that the event draws a very diverse group of people.

As to what to keeps bringing her back, the answer is simple – a unique view from the third-longest suspension bridge in the world.

“The best part is the view,” she said. “It’s very different from driving over. Breath-taking really.”

But, there are even more benefits to participating.

“I think the bridge is five miles, so it’s a beautiful way to get your exercise for the day,” Westover said.

“(And) when it’s done, it’s fun to hang around the area for lunch and shopping.

“The worst part is the traffic, waiting to get on a bus to go over St. Ignace to walk back,” she added.

Westover also had some advice to any newcomers to the walk.

“Wear comfy shoes, bring water and don’t forget your camera,” she said.

To begin the walk, participants may drive to St. Ignace, park their vehicle, walk the bridge and then return to St. Ignace on the school buses provided by the Mackinac Bridge Authority. Or, they may buy tickets for the buses in Mackinaw City at the bus loading area, ride a bus over to St. Ignace and walk back to Mackinaw City.

The walk occupies the east two lanes of the bridge till 9:30 a.m. After 9:30 a.m., only one of the

eastbound lanes will be available to walkers. The average walk time is

estimated at two hours.No pets are allowed on the bridge

for the walk, except for working service dogs. Also not allowed are signs, banners, umbrellas, bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, wagons and similar types of devices, according to a flyer issued by the Michigan Bridge Authority.

For more information or to download a flyer on the bridge walk, visit the website at www.MackinawBridge.org and click on the link for “Annual Bridge Walk” at the top of the screen.

— Dennis Mansfield is an award-winning newsman and now managing editor of the Grayling-based Mound’s Media, a professional freelance news service. Contact him at [email protected].

Like many Michiganders, Stephanie MansfieldofGraylingandSandraWestoverof Frederic are regular pilgrams to the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk. Annual bridge walk gives

people unique way to cross the Straits

ByDennisMansfieldSpecial to the Guide


Lamb & Wool Festival

WEST BRANCH – When sheep farmers and fiber artists come together at the Ogemaw County Fairgrounds Sept. 29-30 they’ll celebrate the 13th Annual Northern Michigan Lamb & Wool Festival.

It might as well be a family reunion.

“We have vendors from as far away as Wisconsin and Indiana but most of our vendors are from Michigan and they’ve been coming to the festival for years,” said organizer Jeanie Prentice. “They tell me this is their favorite festival and I hope and pray it’s true. If it is, then it means were doing everything right.”

That Northern Michigan largest gathering of wool aficionados has been happening here for 13 years would seem confirmation enough that festival organizers are doing something right.

With more than 80 vendors, fiber artists will find everything they need for their next fresh-from-the farm project – from raw wool and roving, to dye, needles, felting forms and everything in between.

As always classes will be offered in needle felting, beginning spinning, dying, felting, drop spinning, lace and crochet.

For sheep farmers, whether industrial grade or hobby craft, there will be sheep and pasture seminars, a shearing class and a pasture tour.

Just as in years past, food vendors and entertainers will be on hand.

The Lamb and Wool Festival runs Sept. 29-30. Late registration for classes begins at 8 a.m. Saturday and 8:30 a.m. Sunday. Vendor booths open at 9 a.m. Saturday, at 10 a.m. on Sunday and close at 5 p.m. both days.

13th Annual Lamb & Wool FestivalWhere: Ogemaw County Fair GroundsWhen: Sept. 29-30What you’ll find there: 80 vendors offering everything fiber, from raw material to finished fiber arts, live music, farm equipment, pasture tours, sheep raising seminars, food vendors, classes and more.Info: (989) 345-2434 or www.LambAndWoolFestival.com


By JERRY NUNNeditor

MACKINAC ISLAND – Pity those who pay the big bucks for a horse drawn carriage ride around Mackinac Island. They could have shelled out far less, still taken a relaxing ride around the state’s most popular island and enjoyed barbecued rib and chicken dinner halfway through the trip.

The Cannonball Inn and Catering will even pick you up downtown or at your hotel for the $45, dinner-destined wagon ride to the back side of the island where the restaurant is located. The deal is available Friday

and Saturday from Mother’s Day until mid- to late-October, or by appointment on special occasions.

It’s not that folks at the Cannonball have tried to keep the cut-rate deal a secret. The Cannonball has been there for quite some time.

“It was established in 1905 by Jack Chambers. We’re the third family to own it since it opened,” said Terrie

Armstrong. Previous owner was Bill Cass Early, she said, and the restaurant was part of the Early family farm. “They served chicken dinners, in a home style meal. We serve barbecued ribs and chicken banquet style.

“The Cannonball has a rich tradition and we’re trying to uphold that.”

It’s also building a tradition of its own and Terrie said the greatest

measure of customer approval she knows is the high rate at which those customers return.

“We have a lot of repeat customers. We have a lot of island residents who we see two or three times a week,’ she said. As one would expect on Mackinac Island, not all the customers are locals. “We’ve had customers from all over. We even had one couple from Texas, where they really know barbeque, who said our barbeque sauce was great.”

The ride to the restaurant and back is about four miles, Terrie said. The wagon hauls about 22 people, give or take, so reservations are highly recommended.

Located on the northwest side of the island, in the settlement named British Landing, the Cannonball is the only place for food outside the more commercialized island’s south side.

Set close to the shore, and overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, even its location has a history.

British Landing was the site of covert military operation during The War of 1812.

On the night of July 16, 1812, before the American soldiers occupying Fort Mackinac were even aware they were at war with the British, a small group of British regulars, along with a larger force of voyageurs and their Native American allies, secretly came aground at British Landing. By morning, the fort was surrounded by troops and the Americans gave up the fort without a fight.

That history is only part of what

you may learn on a Cannonball excursion, according to owner Jack Armstrong.

“On the way out we might go through the center of the island, then on the way back come along the lakeshore. We vary it, so we don’t go the same way every time,” Jack said. Among the sights are Devil’s Kitchen, Brown’s Brook, the Grand Hotel and more. “You’ll see great views of the Mackinac Bridge, but really, there’s no bad place to be on

the island. It’s all beautiful.”For those who’ve explored the

island and worked up an appetite, perhaps the most beautiful sight is the plate of food at the end of the ride. Meals include barbecued chicken and ribs, corn on the cob, potato salad and rolls. It is served banquet style and while it is not all-you-can-eat, Jack says no one goes away hungry.

“Once they get their plate we come around a tray of chicken and ribs if folks want more,” he said. “We get raves, and I know I sound like I’m bragging, but we get a lot of return visitors. People have a great time and leave here in a good mood. They’re strangers when they get here but before long they’re yucking it up and having fun. They get a tour of the island, a great meal and they get to make new friends. It’s a good time for them.”

CANNONBALL INN AND CATERING7641 British Landing Road, on the

northwest corner of Mackinac Island

Serving lunch and dinner, and offering a unique wagon ride from town and back that includes a barbeque chicken and rib dinner with all the trimmings for only $45.

Wagon rides available Friday and Saturday, or otherwise by arrangement; reservations are highly recommended.

(906) 847-0932 or (906) 847-8271www.CannonballMackinacIsland.com

Photos by SHAY POLZIN


you may learn on a Cannonball excursion, according to owner Jack Armstrong.

“On the way out we might go through the center of the island, then on the way back come along the lakeshore. We vary it, so we don’t go the same way every time,” Jack said. Among the sights are Devil’s Kitchen, Brown’s Brook, the Grand Hotel and more. “You’ll see great views of the Mackinac Bridge, but really, there’s no bad place to be on

the island. It’s all beautiful.”For those who’ve explored the

island and worked up an appetite, perhaps the most beautiful sight is the plate of food at the end of the ride. Meals include barbecued chicken and ribs, corn on the cob, potato salad and rolls. It is served banquet style and while it is not all-you-can-eat, Jack says no one goes away hungry.

“Once they get their plate we come around a tray of chicken and ribs if folks want more,” he said. “We get raves, and I know I sound like I’m bragging, but we get a lot of return visitors. People have a great time and leave here in a good mood. They’re strangers when they get here but before long they’re yucking it up and having fun. They get a tour of the island, a great meal and they get to make new friends. It’s a good time for them.”

Celebrate Summer’s Celebrate Summer’s Celebrate Summer’s End in

Be sure to visit the Mackinaw area and celebrate the end of summer with these excellent events!

September may bring summer to a close but the fun doesn’t have to end.

Check out these great October Mackinaw area events!

For more information on these events or other Mackinaw area events please visit www.MackinawCity.com or call (800) 666-0160.

Fort Fright at Michilimackinac

October 5-6

Mackinaw

September may bring summer to a close but the fun doesn’t have to end.

17th Annual Big Truck Sh

ow

& Parade of Lights

September 14 - 154th Annual Fall Colors Bridge RaceOctober 6

Big Mac Shoreline Fall

Scenic Bike Tour

September 15-16Hopps of Fun Beer & Wine FestivalSeptember 7-8

Celebrate Summer’s Celebrate Summer’s MackinawMackinawMackinawMackinaw

Celebrate Summer’s Mackinaw

Celebrate Summer’s Celebrate Summer’s Mackinaw

Celebrate Summer’s Mackinaw

55th Labor Day Bridge WalkSeptember 3


By JERRY NUNN

ROGERS CITY – When the Smithsonian Institution sends its traveling exhibit, “The Way We Worked” to the Presque Isle County Historical Museum, visitors will examine the history of labor in America. Included in the study are five aspects of our country’s

employment traditions; a closer look at our work environment, the uniforms we wear, how race and gender determined roles in labor, our labor conflicts and our most dangerous jobs.

In many ways, it is appropriate that the traveling exhibit should appear here.

The Smithsonian exhibit will merely build on exhibits that Presque Isle County Hitorical Museum already has on display.

“All together we have 10,000 square foot of exhibit space,” said Mark Thompson, museum director.

Included in that space is the popular “Fabulous 50s-60s,” an exhibit featuring “all things baby boomer, that captures the aspects of growing up in 50s, 60s Rogers City,” Thompson said.

“For kids, the most popular exhibit has to be the one room school house,” he added. “Kids like going in there, writing on the chalk board and sitting at the desks. They’ll play school in there until

their parents drag them out.”Of particular interest is the

vast photograph collection the museum acquired from the town’s limestone quarry. While much of the museum’s collection is specific to life in Rogers City, most of it portrays a shared history and Thompson notes the pioneering exhibit with an emphasis on logging and early farming that applies equally to small towns across Northeast Michigan.

Thompson said the museum entertains 3,000 people a year.

“We don’t charge admission. We get a lot of families,” he said. “We get a lot of people who come in every week, and grandparents who bring in their grandkids every month.”

Even the museum’s main facility is listed on the national register of historic places.

The museum is not government

funded, but rather receives its operating expenses from memberships, grants and sales through its gift shop.

The Way We Worked will be on display from Sept. 15 until Oct. 28.

“I think it will be a fantastic exhibit” Thompson said. “Work is a basic activity of life and one that we spend the most time at. I think we’ll all find something that we can relate to in that exhibit.”

The Way We Worked

This photo of young loom workers at Bibb Mill No. 1 in Macon, Ga., in 1909, offers an example of how Amnerican attitudes towards work have changed over the past century. (National Archives)


GLADWIN – Visit any Michigan orchard this autumn and the scene will be vastly different than what was found last year. While the fruit crop of 2011 had apples literally falling from the trees, 80-degree temperatures in March of 2012, followed by seasonal cold, then a weeks-long drought, has left those same overbearing apple trees from last year with nary a fruit on them.

Statewide this year’s apple harvest may be 90-percent lower than normal, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture.

Locally, some orchards have fared better, but nowhere will consumers find the harvest they did last year according to Dan Vannest, owner of The Fruitful Orchard, a 45-acre orchard just west of Gladwin.

Apples – along with their associated products of cider, jam and other scrumptious treats – will still be available, Vannest said, but the cost to consumers will likely be more than in the past.

While there may not be an overabundance, the family-owned Fruitful orchard will still celebrate its harvest. The orchard officially opens on Thursday, Aug. 23, and will then be open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Sunday.

The Fruitful Orchardand Cider Mill

5740 West M-61, Gladwin(989) 426-3971

www.MichiganAppleOrchard.com

Slim pickings applein the

orchard

September 21-22:Fruitful Orchard Fall Festival, featuring Animal Oasis petting zoo, with Saturday concessions, vendors, and all sorts of orchard goodies.

September 29:September 29: Get out and Vote Family Fun Day, family fun activities to get families out and help prepare them for voting this fall.

Apple CrispFilling:• 5 cups peeled, sliced apples• 3 to 4 tablespoons white sugar• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

Topping:• 1 cup oats• 3/4 cup brown sugar• 1/2 cup flour• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon• dash nutmeg

Filling directions:Place fruit in a 2 quart baking

dish, stir in the white sugar and cinnamon.

Topping directions:In a bowl combine oats, brown

sugar, flour, cinnamon, and dash of nutmeg. Cut in butter until mixture turns to coarse crumbs. Sprinkle topping over filling.

Bake crisp in 375 degree oven for 30 minutes, or until apples are tender and topping is a golden brown

A Vannest family favorite? Place warm apple crisp in bowl and top with vanilla ice cream.

Don’t let the increased cost

stop you from enjoying one

of our state’s most popular

agriculture products.

But do use your apples

right.To help accomplish that,

the Vannest family offers this

apple crisp recipe.

Documents

The Guide September 2012