People's Choice Awards

is proud to present the ‌

Inside are your choices for the Best-of-the-Best in the following LCN coverage areas:

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People’s Choice Zone 2

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Voted the Best by our readers MEDIA Print News Source Clinton County News Writer Sue Lounds Radio Station WITL 100.7 FM DJ Personality Tim Barron @ 92.1

June 27, 2010

PERSONALITIES

Bank Teller Glenn Pung @ Citizens Barber Bill Braun @ Bill’s Car Salesperson Randy Devereaux @ Sundance Cashier Jesse Vance Chiropractor Dr. Rodger Massa @ St. Johns Chiropractic Dentist Dr. Pero, DDS Doctor Dr. Doug Poff @ Fowler Osteopathic Clinic Eye Doctor Dr. Ed Peters @ Avery Eye Care Fireman John Kochensparger @ St Johns Fire Department Floral Designer Cindy Schmitz @ Simon Flowers Hair Stylist Becky VanElls @ Modern Concept Salon Investment Broker Gary Lenneman @ Edward Jones Lawyer Edward Jackson @ Jackson Jackson & Assoicates Massage Therapist Heidi Foland @ Renewed Spirit, LLC Mechanic Gerry Schomisch @ Gerry’s Tune Up Nurse Melissa Roberts Pastor / Minister Father Jack Lumanog @ Christ the King Pet Groomer Marie Ouellette @ Back Alley Pet Grooming Pharmacist Barb Splitt @ Sparrow Clinton Hospital

Photographer Emily Irish-Kendall @ Iryshe Photography Policeman Mike Carey @ St. Johns Police Dept.

Realtor Terry Thelen @ Century 21 Receptionist Tina Schneider Server Jenny Favior @ Ryan’s Roadhouse Tailor / Alterations Pat Koenigsknecht Travel Agent Bonnie Fink @ Travel By Design Vet Barbara McClure

FOOD & RESTAURANTS Bakery / Bread Store Andy T Bar Bruno’s Breakfast Wheel Inn Brunch Big Boy Burger Swany’s Candy Shop Walgreens Coffee Shop Biggby Coffee Deli Kroger Dinner Applebee’s Family Restaurant Big Boy Farm Market Country Basket Italian Mancino’s Lunch Mancino’s Mexican Cancun Mexican Grill Middle Eastern Sultan’s Pizza Main Street Pizza Place to Buy Ice Cream Shaggy’s Place to Buy Meat Bellingar’s Packing Ribs Ryan’s Roadhouse Sports Bar Ryan’s Roadhouse Steak Logan’s Sub Sandwiches Subway Wings BW3

St. Johns: Here are your choices for the best-of-the-best in the Clinton County News coverage area, from a variety of categories. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

SERVICES Art Framing & Matting Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts Bank Citizens Bank Child Care Provider Kelly’s Country Daycare Credit Union Clinton County Federal Credit Union Dry Cleaning Sunshine Dry Cleaners Florist Woodbury’s Flowers Funeral Home Keck Coleman Gas Station / Quick Mart Speedway Gym / Workout Facility Tropical Sun Fitness Hair Salon Modern Concepts Heating & Cooling Chasco Hospital Sparrow Clinton Hospital Insurance Agency Feldpausch Farm Bureau Martial Arts MMA Mortgage Company Fifth Third Bank Photo Studio Ortman’s Photography Print Shop Insty Prints Real Estate Company Century 21 Tanning Salon A-1 Tanning Travel Agency Travel By Design

PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO Art Gallery Clinton County Arts Council Bowling Alley Red Wing Lanes Conference Center The Mint Golf Course The Emerald Hotel Amerihost Inn Ice Skating Rink The Summit

Most Romantic Place The Mint Movie Theater NCG Cinema Places to Dance Swany’s Video Rental Store Chart Hit Video

SHOPPING Antiques / Collectibles Antiques & Friends Appliance Store Kurt’s Appliance Auto Dealership Bee’s Auto Parts Store Auto Zone Book Store Schuler Books Carpet Store Barber’s Floors & More Cellular Store Cellular Connection - formerly Sunfire Wireless Furniture Store tie - Becker’s Furniture and North Star Trader Gift Shop Treasure Chest Grocery Store Kroger Hardware Store Gilroy’s St Johns Health / Organic Foods Kroger Home Improvement Store Gilroy’s St Johns Jewelry Store Harr’s Lawn & Power Equipment Store Leveck’s Lumber Company Wieber Lumber Mall Meridian Mall Men’s Store Rehmann’s Music Store Marshall Music Pharmacy Sparrow Clinton Hospital Pool/Spa Store Classic Pool & Spa Retail Garden Center Andy T’s Shoe Store Rehmann’s Specialty Shop Always Charming Sports Store Dunham’s Toy Store Walmart Women’s Store Peeble’s

By SUE LOUNDS | slounds@lsj.com ST. JOHNS — St. Johns Big Boy Restaurant is a family affair. It is also the Clinton County News 2010 People’s Choice for family restaurant and brunch.

“That’s what I really want us to be know as is a quality family restaurant,” said Dave Hunt, Sr. owner of the St. Johns restaurant and three other Big Boy restaurants in Essexville, Mason and Stevensville.

“This is my first one,” he says.

“It’s his home base,” says one of his sons,

Dave Jr., who with brother Patrick, helps dad manage the restaurants.

People feel comfortable taking their families to Big Boy, and they always feel welcome. “Our breakfast bar, which is our brunch, is very popular,” says Dave Jr. “It’s available seven days a week,” says Dave Sr. Also available seven days a week is the soup and salad bar.

Big Boy St. Johns is open seven days a week. Hours Sunday through Thursday are 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday hours are 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

3 People’s Choice Zone 2

Big Boy is choice for family dining, brunch

Thank you for choosing us as People’s Choice Favorite Lumber Company!

For ALL Your Building Needs!

Free Estimates!

Wieber Lumber 132 N. Main St. | Fowler | 989-593-2280

Photo by Sue Lounds

The Hunt men (from left) Dave Jr., Dave Sr. and Patrick, own and manage St. Johns Big Boy.

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Most

2010 GMC Sierra

2010 GMC Acadia

2010 BUICK Lacrosse

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St. Johns

OPEN SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS Noon - 5pm

989-224-3900 24/7 at 877Sundance.com •

June 27, 2010

Favorite Auto Salesman in Clinton County Randy Devereaux

People’s Choice Zone 2

4

It’s worth the drive to Becker’s Furniture

By SUE LOUNDS slounds@lsj.com

Mark Becker has been in the furniture his entire life.

“I’m the son of the founders – Luke and Joan Becker,” says Mark. “That makes me and my wife Laurie the second generation to own this business.”

The business is Becker’s Furniture in Fowler, one of 2010 Clinton County News People’s Choice for furniture store.

“Service is our mainstay,” says Becker. “We don’t recite warranties. We take care of your problems.”

And because of Becker’s commitment to service and quality products, many of their customers are second and third generation customers.

“Small towns keep you honest too,” says Mark. “Many of our customers are the people we see in the grocery store, at church, on the street.”

Becker says people are often surprised the first time they walk in the store. “They don’t expect it to be as big as it is, or that we’ll have as much to offer.”

The store, including warehouse area, is 29,000 square feet. That’s space for plenty of furniture.

But the biggest surprise, according to Becker, is the treatment customers receive.

“We’ll treat you with the courtesy and respect you deserve,” he said. “We really do want you to be happy with your purchase.”

There are five sales people at Becker’s with a combined total of more than 100 years of experience in the furniture business.

“Another thing that might interest people is that our

Photos by Sue Lounds Becker’s Furniture in Fowler, 2010 CCN People’s Choice for furniture store, carries Michigan-made Becker’s Furniture carries a large selection of Lane recliners in its vast showroom in Fowler.

Restonic mattress sets.

sales people don’t work on commission,” said Becker.

“They don’t use high-pressure tactics either.”

Becker’s Furniture carries well-known brand names such as Lane, King Hickory, England, Vaughan-Bassett and Ridgeway Clocks, to name a few.

“And we carry Michigan brands whenever possible, like Restonic mattress sets which are made here in Michigan.”

Becker believes in the quality of the brands he sells, enough to guarantee them for one year – that’s beyond the typical manufacturer’s warranty.

“We offer free delivery and one year free service within

Proudly serving Clinton County since 1972.

We couldn’t do it without our members!

ST. JOHNS (Main Office)

1200 Zeeb Drive - 989.224.9511

Thank You

FOWLER BRANCH

10667 E. Second St. - 989.593.4240

OVID BRANCH

www.ClintonCountyFCU.org

Thank You for your continued support!

June 27, 2010

WHAT DOES YOUR HOME SAY ABOUT YOU?

1090 Baese Court - 989.834.9800

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an hour of Fowler,” says Becker, “and customers will find that our prices are competitive.”

Becker’s has a full array of furniture, accessories and mattress sets. There’s a large selection in the store, but custom-order fabric options are also available.

“And we have a clearance room now too,” adds Becker.

Becker’s Furniture is open Monday 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit Becker’s Furniture in downtown Fowler or online at www.beckerfurniturefowler.com

Terry A. Davis, DVM Barbara J. McClure, DVM Mary C. Peacock, DVM (989) 224-6495 M-T-TH: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

4137 S. US-27 W & F: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

St. Johns, MI 48879 SAT: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. sjacvet.vetsuite.com

THANK YOU

To all of our Loyal Customers and Community #1 in Clinton County 12 Years Running

2321 S. US-27 St. Johns • 989•224•9530 www.barbersfloorsandmore.com

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5 People’s Choice Zone 2

Photo by Sue Lounds

Choice art The Art Gallery at 215 N. Clinton Ave. St. Johns is the 2010 People’s Choice for an art gallery. The Art Gallery boasts a broad array of art from more than 50 artists, many of whom are Clinton County residents. Michael Muehlenbeck is the director of the gallery operated by Clinton County Arts Council. Art Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is also open the first Sunday each month from 1-3 p.m. For more information, call The Gallery at (989) 224-2429.

Thanks

Clinton County for Voting Us Best Place to Buy Cell Phones

3036 S. Bagley (US-27) • Ithaca 5 Miles North of M-57 on US-27

989-875-4341

Open 5 Days a Week - 11am to 5pm Closed Wednesdays & Sundays

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Thanks for Voting Us Your

Favorite Gift Shop

• Jewelry • Over 3,000 Sterling Silver Charms • Bracelets • Necklaces • Pendants

989-227-0870 800 S. US-27 (Southgate Plaza) St. Johns, MI 48879 0100016654

www.thecellularconnection.biz

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102 N. Clinton Ave. • St. Johns, MI 48879 • 989-224-3399 www.alwayscharming.com

June 27, 2010

Just North of Kroger, Next to Little Caesar’s

People’s Choice Zone 2

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Koenigsknecht can solve any sewing needs

By SUE LOUNDS slounds@lsj.com

Pat Koenigsknecht started sewing when she was just six years old.

“I started sewing for other people when I first got married,” she says, “so I was about 20” Forty plus years later she is still at it.

And she is the 2010 People’s Choice for seamstress/tailor.

“My grandmother was a dressmaker,” says Pat, “and my mother (Alice Hiebeck) sewed my entire life.”

Pat’s basement is her sewing studio.

And with her supply of at least nine different sewing machines, she can tackle just about anything.

“I do everything from hemming blue jeans to redesigning a wedding gown,” she says.

“Oh, and I’m now called the bag lady,” she adds with a grin.

The bag lady moniker refers to the duffle bags she makes.

“I make them in three different sizes and lots of different colors,” she says.

“They are really popular graduation gifts.”

Pat and her husband Dennis have three grown daughters. They all know how to sew, but don’t have much time for

it now.

“My granddaughter is my seamstress,” she says and tells how the two of them worked together to create this year’s prom dress.

“We did it over spring break,” says Pat. Prom time is very busy for Pat. “Prom weekend I worked on three different weddings and first communion,” she says.

And of course spring is a busy time for weddings.

Pat does a lot of alterations on wedding gowns and brides maids dresses, but she also has made wedding gowns from scratch.

“I made three out of four of my daughters’ wedding gowns,” she says. “I’ve done between 10 and 15 over the years. For the last few years, it’s been more fixing than making though. Right now I have a wedding gown and four or five brides maids dresses waiting to be done.”

But Pat’s work isn’t limited to wedding and prom dresses, or even to alterations.

She also does lots of custom embroidery work.

“I do sweatshirts, hats, polos; it’s all custom work. I have such variety, there’s no way I can get tired of this.”

And just in case she doesn’t have enough to do herself, she still teaches sewing for 4-H – something she has been doing for 38 years.

“I believe kids need to learn the basics,” she says, “and I still enjoy working with the young girls, and I’ve had a few boys in my sewing groups too.”

She has a couple sewing machines the young sewers use when they come for their lessons. Those machines, like the other seven scattered around her basement, have important purposes and are the tools of her trade.

“It’s my own little factory,” she says of her basement. “It’s my own little world.”

And when she puts those machines to work under her skilled eyes and gifted hands, she creates or transforms with a skill level few can match.

That’s probably why she is the Clinton County News 2010 People’s Choice for seamstress.

Contact Pat Koenigsknect at (989) 224-8105 for alterations, custom duffle bags and custom embroidery.

Right: Pat Koenigsknecht, voted People’s Choice for favorite seamstress, adjusts the bustle on Tara Thelen’s wedding gown.

Photo by Sue Lounds

Thank You to All Of Our Loyal Customers

Auto & Light Truck Repair 201 Brush St. St. Johns 48879

989.224.6414

June 27, 2010

• Air Conditioning • Brakes Service & Repair • Computer Diagnosis • Engine Repair • ABS Problems Jasper Engines • Oil Changes and Transmissions • Electrical Trouble – includes 3 years or • All Maintenance Shooting 100,000 miles nation • Belts, Hoses & • Steering and wide warranty Cooling Systems Suspension • Tune-ups • Remanufactured For more info or questions, visit: www.gerrystuneup.com/askgerry

Thank you Clinton County!

*Favorite Hair Stylist, Becky VanElls * Favorite Hair Salon

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Right here.

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Right where you need us.

Great Care at Sparrow Clinton Hospital.

24 Hours a Day, Sparrow Clinton Hospital doctors and nurses deliver quality, compassionate care to every patient

We make it easy to choose the right emergency facility: · Board-Certified doctors specially trained in Emergency Medicine · Professional, highly skilled clinical staff · Consistently high patient satisfaction ratings* · Access to all Sparrow Hospital resources, including acceptance of the same insurance plans

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June 27, 2010

*Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Surveys

989.227.3400 • 1.800.SPARROW 805 S. Oakland St. • St. Johns, MI www.clintonmemorial.org

People’s Choice Zone 2

8

People choose Irish-Kendall for photography

By SUE LOUNDS slounds@lsj.com

“I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures,” says Emily Irish-Kendall, this year’s People’s Choice for best photographer, “but it wasn’t until I was in California that I had the confidence to really go for it.”

And go for it she did. Emily worked for numerous photographic studios in California, Arizona and Michigan, learning something new and different from each experience – keeping what worked for her and storing the rest in the back of her mind to maybe use someday.

She didn’t mind working in other people’s studios, but having her own fits into her life much better.

“Being a mom led to starting my own studio,” she says. “I wanted to be home and available for my daughter, Kiyana.”

For Emily, photography is more than

Courtesy photo

Left: Emily Irish-Kendall opened her own studio, Iryshe Photography, so she could spend more time with her daughter Kiyana and husband Jeremy, pictured with her at left.

“People are all different; each one is a unique individual. I like using photographs to show that individuality and uniqueness.”

– Emily Irish-Kendall taking a picture.

“It’s about capturing an image, and about showing their personality and attitude and essence.”

Emily says she thinks too many photographers are all about just cranking out the photos – the more pictures, the more money.

“I want a photo session to be fun,” says Emily. And that can take time.

“I don’t like to rush the process.

Sometimes it takes a while, but the end results are usually better that way.”

Emily’s studio is called Iryshe Photography. It isn’t a large studio, but it meets her needs. And a lot of her photo shoots happen at other locations.

“I’m willing to travel,” she says. “If a senior or a family has a favorite spot where they want their pictures, I can do that.”

So her boutique studio suits Emily perfectly.

Emily specializes in senior portraits, weddings and families. She has a couple of very talented assistants who work with her too.

“I like taking pictures of people,” she says. “I was never really in to landscapes and scenery.”

But she eagerly accepts the challenge of photographing living, breathing people.

“People are all different; each one is a unique individual, and I like using photographs to show that individuality and uniqueness.”

That’s probably one of the reasons Clinton County News readers chose her as the 2010 People’s Choice for photographer.

Iryshe Photography is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays by appointment.

To make an appointment, call (989) 307-1101. To learn more about Emily and iryshe Photography, visit the studio website at www.iryshephoto graphy.com

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June 27, 2010

Thank you Clinton County for all your support!

9 People’s Choice Zone 2

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June 27, 2010

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2010 Chevy 1/2 Ton Reg Cab Silverado

People’s Choice Zone 2

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Voted the Best by our readers MEDIA Print News Source Lansing State Journal Writer John Schneider @ Lansing State Journal Radio Station WFMK 99.1 FM DJ Personality Banana Don @ WITL 100.7 FM

June 27, 2010

PERSONALITIES Bank Teller Lucinda Doneth-Block @ PNC Barber Bill Sermack @ Family Barber Shop Car Salesperson Ted Holmberg @ Bud Kouts Cashier Brandon Shellberg Chiropractor Jennifer Whitman @ Downtown Dewitt Chiropractic Dentist Dr. Schoonover Doctor Dr. Wycoff @ Wycoff Wellness Center Eye Doctor Dr. Doyle @ Eye Care Assoc. of Dewitt Fireman Bob Farnum @ City of Dewitt Floral Designer Beth Herenden @ Twiggies Hair Stylist Lindsey Buckner @ Bridge St. Hair Company Investment Broker Daniel Peckham @ Wells Fargo Investment Advisors Lawyer Melissa K. Allen Massage Therapist Christen Gilman @ Bridge St. Hair Co. Mechanic Jeff Blankenship @ PJ Automotive Nurse Stacey Reynolds Pastor / Minister Father Dwight @ St. Judes Pet Groomer Kurt @ Wag n Tails

Pharmacist Pat @ Dewitt Pharmacy Photographer Rod Gleason @ Gleason’s Policeman Walt Grysen @ Dewitt Police Department Realtor Loretta Spinrad @ Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood Receptionist Shelly Hagman @ Bridge St. Hair Company Server Kayla Christopherson @ Falsetta’s Tailor / Alterations Carolyn Murray Travel Agent Joyce Crosby @ Drolett Travel Agency Vet Dr. Thimmig @ Zeeb Pet Health Center

FOOD & RESTAURANTS Asian China Gourmet

Bakery / Bread Store Shorty’s Bar Relli’s Breakfast Flap Jack Shack Brunch Flap Jack Shack Burger Relli’s Candy Shop Fabiano’s Coffee Shop Biggby’s Deli L&L Food Centers Dinner Draft House Family Restaurant Relli’s Farm Market Dewitt Farmer’s Market Italian Relli’s Lunch Sweetie-Licious Mexican Fiesta Charra Middle Eastern Woody’s Pizza Relli’s Place to Buy Ice Cream Scoopy Doo’s Place to Buy Meat Gorman’s Food Ribs Smokey Joe’s

DeWitt and Bath: Here are your choices for the best-of-the-best in the DeWitt-Bath Review coverage area, from a variety of categories. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Sports Bar Relli’s Steak Outback Steakhouse Sub Sandwiches Jersey Giant Wings BW3

SERVICES Art Framing & Matting Michaels Bank PNC Child Care Provider Mary Lou Galardi Credit Union MSU FCU Dry Cleaning Baryames Cleaners Florist Twiggies Funeral Home Keck-Coleman Gas Station / Quick Mart Speedway Gym / Workout Facility YMCA of Dewitt Hair Salon Bridge St. Hair Salon Heating & Cooling Doty Mechanical Hospital Sparrow Insurance Agency Reed Insurance Agency Martial Arts ATA Karate Mortgage Company GMAC Photo Studio Gleason’s Print Shop Dandee Printing Real Estate Company Remax Real Estate in DeWitt Tanning Salon Bridge St. Hair Salon Travel Agency Drolett Travel

PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO Art Gallery Creole Bowling Alley Royal Scot Conference Center Prairie Creek Golf Course Prairie Creek

Hotel Radisson Ice Skating Rink Munn Arena Most Romantic Place Knight Cap Movie Theater NCG Places to Dance Rum Runners Video Rental Store BlockBuster

SHOPPING Antiques / Collectibles Mega Mall Appliance Store Gilbert’s Auto Dealership Sawyer’s Auto Parts Store Auto Zone Book Store Barnes and Noble Carpet Store Clinton Home Center Cellular Store Verizon Furniture Store Art Van Gift Shop Twiggies Grocery Store Meijer Hardware Store Gilbert’s Health / Organic Foods Better Health Home Improvement Store Vet’s Ace Hardware Jewelry Store Jon Arendsen Lawn & Power Equipment Store Tractor Supply Company Lumber Company Lowe’s Mall EastWood Towne Center Men’s Store American Eagle Music Store Marshall Music Pharmacy Dewitt Pharmacy Pool / Spa Store Classic Pool and Spa Retail Garden Center Meijer Shoe Store DSW Specialty Shop Twiggies Sports Store Dick’s Sporting Goods Toy Store Toys R Us Women’s Store Grace

Photo by Greg DeRuiter/LSJ

Linda Hundt of Sweetie-Licious Bakery Cafe of DeWitt displays her grand prize winning Tom’s Cheery Cherry Cherry Berry Pie, which won Best of Show in the 2009 Food Network Pie Challenge.

Contest judges are not the only ones who enjoy the cafe’s creations. The SweetieLicious Bakery was selected as the Favorite Lunch by DeWitt-Bath Review readers in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards sponsored by Lansing Community Newspapers.

The bakery cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups and quiches to hungry diners, as well as sweet treats.

Loretta Spinrad Associate Broker Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood 517-668-3635 517-331-1201

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7 Year Winner - Thank You Readers!

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Thank You for voting me your favorite Realtor in DeWitt.

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Contact me today to see how I can assist you with your dreams for the future!

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People’s Choice Zone 2

A very sweet honor

People’s Choice Zone 2

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Prairie Creek G.C. a good value for golfers

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

DEWITT — If you’re looking for a good value in local golf on a course that will test you from start to finish, DeWitt’s Prairie Creek Golf Course should fit the bill.

Readers of the DeWitt-Bath Review think so because they voted Prairie Creek Best Golf Course in this year’s People’s Choice awards.

“We’re in very good condition and we offer a very good rate,” owner Roger Overway says. Overway co-owns the 18-hole course with Russell Thornton. They run the business along with their sons Trey Thornton and Greg Overway, making the operation a two-generation family affair.

“Russ and I are in our 70s, so those two guys run it,” says Overway, who together with Thornton is retired from State Farm Insurance.

The idea for Prairie Creek began in the early 1970s when Overway and a golfing buddy decided that a farm field near their homes would make a good site for a golf course.

Six years and lots of sweat equity later,

Prairie Creek debuted its first nine holes.

The second nine opened in 1984.

The facility, located at 800 E. Webb Drive, also features a banquet center that seats about 300. It’s been a successful venue for wedding receptions, parties and corporate functions, Overway says. Banquet center Chef Matt Purves has been with Prairie Creek since 1984.

This year, Overway and Thornton will be adding a driving range and two new holes, both set to open next season. They’ve also hired Kirk Sherman to be their teaching pro.

Jeff Ovenhouse is the course superintendent.

The Prairie Creek golf experience also includes a pro shop that carries golf merchandise and seats 90. There’s also club rental, covered carts and a practice putting green. Both men’s and women’s golf leagues run Monday through Friday. For a complete list of Prairie Creek amenities, click www.golfprairiecreek.com “We’re a challenging golf course,” Overway says of the links he began almost 40 years ago. “We’re not the longest course around, but we’re a challenge.”

Shears For Pets eb PET Three ZeHEALTH 13 Years

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Running!!

www.pethealth.net

669-2641

Photo by Christine Meyer

The management team at Prairie Creek Golf Course in DeWitt includes (from left) Trey Thornton, Russ Thornton, Roger Overway and Greg Overway.

STOP IN TODAY TO SEE WHY WE ARE THE BEST!

US 27 & Herbison Rd.

The Doctors, Technicians, Receptionists, Animal Caretakers, Pet Stylist, Veterinary Assistants, and Interns extend our sincere thanks to our clients who again voted Dr. Thimmig best Veterinarian.

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Dr. Stephen R. Thimmig

June 27, 2010

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www.clintonhomecenter.net

DeWitt optometrist assisted by veteran office staff

By CHRISTINE MEYER For Lansing Community Newspapers

DEWITT — Dr. Thomas Doyle takes care of the eyes of DeWitt residents, but he must have great listening skills too, because for more than 30 years he’s also been able to hear his patients needs and wants and respond with the best treatments and corrective action for them.

That’s why Doyle, a DeWitt resident, once again was named Best Eye Doctor in the DeWitt-Bath community in the People’s Choice poll.

Whether you’re a student who can’t see the board

in school, or a senior citizen dealing with age-related changes in your vision, Doyle’s practice, Eyecare Associates of DeWitt, “can handle just about any medical issue that affects the eye, including basic vision care, eye infections and watching for cataracts, just to name a few,” he says.

Doyle is joined in the practice, 13151 Schavey Road, by Dr. Jana Fisher, a part-time associate. His office staff of four also is a veteran group with anywhere from four to 25 years of experience with his practice. Visit the website at www.eyecareasso ciatesofdewitt.com for a complete list of their ser-

Thank You To Our Loyal Customers for Voting Us

Best of 2010

and

Favorite Home Improvement Favorite Hardware Store

13 People’s Choice Zone 2

Doyle has helped area patients for over 30 years

Doyle vices.

Eyecare Associates also carries a wide selection of eyeglass frames and the latest in contact lens wear, including the increasingly popular bi-focal contacts.

See

Doyle/page 14

Vet’s

Winning 10 consecutive years!

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What an Honor!

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June 27, 2010

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People’s Choice Zone 2

14

Doyle: Optometrist has many years of experience Continued from page 13

Whether you wear contacts or glasses, each person’s vision is unique. Our eyes do change and everything from age to illness can affect their ability to function properly and give us the sharpest vision possible.

As our population ages, Doyle says he’s seeing more patients who complain of dry eyes and are looking for relief.

“Sometimes it takes a greater effort to get that under control, such as medical drops or oral supplements,” Doyle says.

At the other end of the spectrum are his young patients.

F

Eyecare Associates Eyecare Associates of DeWitt is located at 13151 Schavey Road. For more information, call (517) 669-2945 or visit www.eyecareassociatesofdewitt.com

They’re already tired of wearing their glasses and believe they are ready for contact lenses.

“I tell them I don’t have an age criteria, but I do have a maturity criteria, and they have to be able to handle them.

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Contacts still are a medical device and the risk for infections is a big issue.”

Doyle says his approach to patients and their treatment has been shaped by his decades of experience in the examining room and also outside of it as he saw his two daughters through DeWitt public schools, and was an active member of his church and the local Lions Club, among other civic involvements. Doyle recently returned from his eighth trip to Honduras to bring eyeglasses and eye care to people in that Central American nation.

“I like to think I’ve been good to DeWitt and DeWitt certainly has been good to me,” he says.

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The Draft House is alive and well

15 People’s Choice Zone 2

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

DEWITT — The family-owned restaurant is alive and well in DeWitt as once again the Draft House has won a People’s Choice award in the DeWitt-Bath Review, this time for Best Dinner.

Neither the economy nor a small kitchen fire has discouraged the husband and wife team of Lee and Jennifer Irish, sole owners of the restaurant for about 20 years. After the fire the couple decided to completely remodel the kitchen.

This latest remodel joins a major renovation of the bathrooms two years ago, making them completely touch-free.

Lee calls his restrooms “some of the nicest in mid-Michigan, if not the state.”

Next up is a remodel of the building’s exterior, set to take place later this summer. Lee says it will include plenty of “green” features to go along with the other environmentally friendly elements that have been added over the years.

“We were one of the first restaurants in the state to be certified green by the (national) Green Restaurant Association,” Lee says.

The Draft House also has become a popular spot for birthday parties for those of us who grew up in the 1960s and 1970s, thanks to a lower level banquet room that’s decorated with plenty of groovy touches - including an 8-track tape player.

See

Photo by Christine Meyer

Lee and Jennifer Irish have owned and operated the Draft House in DeWitt for 20 years. After extensive

Draft House/page 16 remodeling inside, the outside of the building is scheduled for a facelift.

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Scoopy Doo’s: ‘DeWitt’s meeting place’

People’s Choice Zone 2

16

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

DEWITT — Scoopy, Scoopy Doo, where are you?

If you’re from DeWitt, you know that Scoopy Doo’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream is located at 119 N. Bridge St. Once again the family-owned shop has received a People’s Choice Award for Best Place for Ice Cream from the readers of the DeWitt-Bath Review.

“It is DeWitt’s meeting place. It’s packed every night,” owner Don Fletcher confirms.

Joining Fletcher behind the counter are his two sons, Jordon, 17, and Chadd, 22. Jordon was just 8 years old

when he decided his dad’s ice cream shop should be named Scoopy Doo’s.

“Now I’ve got gobs of Scooby Doos that the kids bring me,” Fletcher laughs.

The boys have been busy since opening for the season March 1, serving up cones, including 28 flavors of hard ice cream, flurries, soft serve and assorted other treats. Scoopy Doo’s also caters company picnics and employee appreciation events. Once again they’ll be sponsoring boys and girls summer teams, and the Fletchers ended the school year with field day popsicles for several DeWitt schools, and fundraisers for schools in Bath and Lansing.

This year they’ve also branched out

into ice cream carts that can be rented out for parties. So far they’ve been a hit, Fletcher says.

Scoopy Doo’s also has a spacious birthday party room upstairs, with the option of a visit from Scoopy Doo himself. For more information about the birthday party room visit the store’s website at www.scoopy-doo.com.

“DeWitt is really supportive,” says Fletcher, who grew up in town. He remembers that the current site of Scoopy Doo’s was an ice cream shop when he was a kid.

“Our customers are like our friends and I’ve been watching the kids who were so young when we started and they’re growing up,” he says.

Draft House: Family restaurant changing Continued from page 15 Photo by Christine Meyer

Jordon Fletcher, son of Scoopy Doo’s owner Don Fletcher, shows off a hand-dipped cone creation at the downtown DeWitt ice cream shop. Scoopy Doo’s features 28 flavors of hard-serve ice cream along with soft-serve and many other ice cream treats.

“I’ve had people tell me it’s like being in your best friend’s basement again,” Lee laughs. “It’s very unique down there.”

While patrons appreciate all of the touches that have gone into making the Draft

13177 Schavey Rd. DeWitt Shopping Center DeWitt, MI 48820 (517) 669-8622

House a top-notch dining facility, it’s the food, coupled with a staff Lee calls “the best I’ve had in 28 years,” that keeps people coming in night after night.

The extensive menu features everything from chicken, to French dip, to green chili enchiladas to honey

cashew salmon. The Draft House burger also is a repeat award winner with local diners. To see an entire menu and learn more about The Draft House visit its website at www.dewitt drafthouse.com.

For the Irish family, the Draft House is its only busi-

ness and no detail is too large or too small to warrant attention.

“We’re there to make sure everything is taken care of,” Lee says. “We’re always trying to keep things fresh. And we’re a part of the community. People love us and we love them, too.”

Thank you to the Community and my

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Biggby selected as DeWitt’s top coffee store

17 People’s Choice Zone 2

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

Photo by Christine Meyer

The Biggby Coffee shop at 13181 Schavey Road was selected as the Best Coffee Shop by readers of the DeWitt-Bath Review.

Re/Max Real Estate Professionals DeWitt

“Thank You”

for voting me as one of your favorite eyecare professionals!

Thomas J. Doyle, O.D.

13151 Schavey Road • DeWitt 0100018088

517.669.2945

We are grateful to be voted People’s Choice church for a 2nd year in a row!

Thank You for Voting Us your Favorite Real Estate Company in DeWitt.

Call us for any of your real estate needs.

Come and join us for Bible-based teaching with practical application to your life with Holy Communion every Sunday!

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1161 E. Clark Rd., Suite 230 in DeWitt

13183 Schavey Rd., DeWitt, MI

Dawn Brewster 517-881-4061

Pat Feldpausch 517-285-7550

Deb Good 517-719-3323

Debi Ladd 517-282-7387

Amy Sweet 517-881-6840

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(Clark Corners Shopping Center Clark Rd. & Old US-27) Fr. Jack Lumanog, Pastor

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Kim Curtis 517-669-8118

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June 27, 2010

Stella Boak 517-202-1030

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DEWITT — Biggby Coffee is the Lansing area’s home-grown coffee company, and the Biggby in DeWitt has become that community’s hometown coffee stop, according to the readers of the DeWitt-Bath Review. They gave a 2010 People’s Choice award to their own Biggby for Best Coffee Shop.

Chances are if you’re a regular at the DeWitt Biggby someone behind the counter will have your order ready by the time you walk in the door.

“We’re very hometown-ish,” store manager Austin Kelly says. “We know a lot of customers by name. And we’re great at remembering things they tell us. We’re very interactive with the customers.”

Kelly is joined at the DeWitt store, 13181 Schavey Road, by seven other employees.

Each Biggby is locally owned and operated and this site is owned by Deb Kirchen. Like all other Biggby stores, the DeWitt location is completely wireless. There’s seating for about 15.

People’s Choice Zone 2

18

Voted the Best by our readers MEDIA Print News Source Lansing State Journal Writer John Schneider @ Lansing State Journal Radio Station 97.5 FM WJIM DJ Personality Bob & Tom @ Q106

June 27, 2010

PERSONALITIES Bank Teller Brian Tribell Barber Kim Larner @ Changes Hair Design Car Salesperson Greg Jenca @ Graff Chevrolet Cashier Laurel Prosper Chiropractor Dr. Linda Rassell @ Chiropractic Well Being Center Dentist Dr. Eric Eby @ Eby Dental Care Doctor Dr. Ralph Harvey Eye Doctor Dr. Terri Wolf @ Meridian Eyecare Fireman Dan Renner @ East Lansing Floral Designer Maura Cullen @ B/A Florist Hair Stylist Kim Larner @ Changes Hair Design Investment Broker Jon Bucklin @ Wealth Management Partners Lawyer Scott Goldstein @ Goldstein Law Office, LLC Massage Therapist Rachel Holloway @ Changes Hair Design Mechanic Bob Bappert @ Bappert Automotive Nurse Nancy Spadafor Pastor/Minister Rev. Kurt Kirchoff @ Haslett Comm. Church Pet Groomer Karina Sa Leitao @ Classy Canine

Photographer J.D. Small @ J.D. Small’s Studio Policeman Chief Tom Wibert @ E.L. Police Department Realtor Ann O’Connor @ Remax Receptionist Shelby Bennett @ Bennett Road Animal Clinic Server Rebecca Knapp Tailor / Alterations Kelly Wheaton @ Fantastic Alterations Travel Agent Mary Schultz @ Let’s Go! Travel Vet Dr. Gail Wolfe @ Bennett Road Animal Clinic

FOOD & RESTAURANTS Asian A-I Fusion Bakery / Bread Store Breadsmith of Okemos Bar Crunchy’s Breakfast Blondie’s Barn Brunch Coral Gables Burger Crunchy’s Candy Shop How Sweet It Is Coffee Shop Biggby Coffee Deli State Side Deli Dinner Gilbert & Blake’s Family Restaurant Coral Gables Farm Market Meridian Twp. Farm Market Italian Bravo Lunch Lou & Harry’s Mexican Cancun Mexican Grill Okemos Middle Eastern Sahara’s Pizza Jet’s of Haslett Place to Buy Ice Cream Tasty Twist Place to Buy Meat Goodrich’s Spartan Shoprite Ribs Brookshire Steak Hershey’s Steak & Seafood

East Lansing, Haslett and Okemos: Here are your choices for the best-of-the-best in the Towne Courier coverage area, from a variety of categories. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Sports Bar Wild Wing Café Sub Sandwiches Subway of Okemos Wings Wild Wing Café

SERVICES

Art Framing & Matting Framer’s Edge Bank Citizens Bank of Haslett Child Care Provider Haslett Child Development Center Credit Union MSU FCU Dry Cleaning Meridian Cleaners Florist B/A Florist Funeral Home Gorsline Runciman Gas Station / Quick Mart Wood’s Okemos Marathon Gym / Workout Facility Parkwood YMCA Hair Salon Changes Hair Design Heating & Cooling Northwind Heating & Cooling Hospital Sparrow Insurance Agency Bubolz Insurance Martial Arts ATA Black Belt Academy of Haslett Mortgage Company Flagstar Bank Photo Studio Okemos Studio Print Shop ASAP Printing Real Estate Co. Tomie Raines Tanning Salon VIP Tanning Travel Agency Let’s Go! Travel

Most Romantic Place Wild Goose Inn Movie Theater NCG Places to Dance Rick’s Video Rental Store Video to Go

SHOPPING

Antiques / Collectibles Red Cedar Antiques Appliance Store Sears Auto Dealership Graff Chevrolet Auto Parts Store East Lansing Auto Pros Book Store Curious Book Store Carpet Store Carpet Studio Cellular Store Verizon - Okemos Furniture Store Pilgrim House Gift Shop Mackerel Sky Grocery Store L & L Food Centers Hardware Store Okemos Ace Hardware Health / Organic Foods East Lansing Food Co-op Home Improvement Store Home Depot - Okemos Jewelry Store Silver & Beyond Lawn & Power Equipment Store MidWest Power Equipment Lumber Company Home Depot - Okemos Mall Meridian Mall Men’s Store Kositchek’s Music Store String Connection Pharmacy Walgreens Pool / Spa Store Dietz Pool Retail Garden Center Van Atta’s Art Gallery Anselmo Art Gallery Shoe Store Playmakers Bowling Alley Marvel Lanes Specialty Shop Mole Hole Conference Center Kellogg Center Sports Store Dick’s Sports Golf Course Eagle Eye Toy Store Brilliant Sky Hotel Staybridge Suite Women’s Store Kellie’s Consignments Ice Skating Rink Suburban Ice

PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO

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People’s Choice for favorite gas station

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Thank you for voting us the Best for the 10th year in a row!

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Wood’s Okemos Marathon owner John Wood and his mother, Mary, are proud of the service station’s 50 years in the community. John Wood began working there as a 13-year-old, while Mary Wood has faithfully kept the station’s books since her husband, Robert Wood Sr., opened the Marathon’s predecessor in September 1959. They … put wipers on (or) check your oil, and I knew I could stop and pay for it later (if necessary),” says Okemos resident Scott Friend. “They know … you by name, and they always thank you for coming. It’s a family business, and it’s someone you know you can trust. They are good people there.” Wood’s Okemos Marathon, named “Favorite Gas Station/Quick Mart” in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards.

People’s Choice Zone 2

Handcrafted Artisan Breads for Your Home or Restaurant

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June 27, 2010

Thank you Okemos, E. Lansing & Haslett for giving us a huge “Thumbs Up” this year!

We think our local Wingeaters and Lansing Funseekers are the Best!

People’s Choice Zone 2

20

Wild Goose Inn — the most romantic place

By DAWN PARKER dlparker@lsj.com

EAST LANSING - Many travelers, if asked, would likely say they prefer the unique surroundings of a bed and breakfast to the conventional atmosphere of a hotel.

Visitors to East Lansing have that choice with the Wild Goose Inn, located for the last eight years at 333 Albert Avenue.

Fans of the inn named it their “Most Romantic Place” in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards.

“It’s nice to know that people appreciate the place like that,” innkeeper Al Bay said.

“I like that the inn is part of downtown East Lansing. We really feel like we belong here, and the city has been really supportive.”

Great getaway

The inn’s surroundings lend themselves to romantic getaways, and Bay said the inn hosts a couple of weddings on most weekends.

Each of the six rooms has a fireplace and a whirlpool tub, and guests are greeted with fresh flowers and terrycloth robes.

Fall-themed rooms, like Autumn Arbor,

even have leopard-print robes.

“We’re seeing a marked increase in people wearing their robes to breakfast,” Bay said with a chuckle.

Various romantic packages are available by request, and guests who spend their wedding night at the inn go home with a complimentary Christmas ornament.

There are six rooms in all. Each has its own theme, tying into the overall theme of seasons of the year.

The main building of the inn formerly stood near the intersection of Park Lake and Grand River, on the site of the former Circuit City store.

The first floor has one guest room, a parlor with comfortable Mission-style furniture and the breakfast area, while the second floor has two more rooms.

The second building, known as the Gosling, houses three more elegantly decorated rooms.

The Wild Goose Inn isn’t just for lovers, however, as numerous amenities are available for business travelers.There’s wireless Internet access, along with loaner computers and cellular phones.

For more information, visit www.wildgooseinn.com or call (517) 333-3334.

Photograph by Dawn Parker

Al Bay, proprietor of the Wild Goose Inn in downtown East Lansing, shows off the inn’s Autumn Arbor room. The inn’s six rooms are all hand-decorated in different themes corresponding to the seasons of the year. The popular getaway for romantics hosts a couple of weddings on most weekends.

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For Lansing Community Newspapers

Some folks are natural-born goers and doers, while others prefer to take a more cautious approach.

Mary Schultz, owner of Let’s Go! Travel, definitely belongs in the first category.

Schultz’s East Lansing-based travel agency centers on package tours, and once again has won Favorite Travel Agent in this year’s People’s Choice awards from the readers of the Towne Courier.

Schultz says her proactive streak started early in her first career as an elementary school teacher in Lansing.

She wanted her students to visit some of the wonderful places they were learning about in their books.

Since most of the kids couldn’t afford to travel, Schultz worked tirelessly to organize fund-raisers so they could travel as a school group.

“That started 33 years of every year we fund-raised the money and figured out where we’d go,” she remembers.

Schultz’s students ended up visiting sites from the nation’s capital to the Grand Hotel, to Kentucky horse country and many others.

Finally, after years of organizing trips for the students, her colleagues asked her to start planning trips for them, too.

For about eight years Schulz continued teaching full time while also getting her travel business running. “That drive to work and do things for people has always been there,” she says.

Schultz’s work load became much more

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manageable when she teamed up with Diamond Tours of Fort Myers, Fla. Through them, she offers 15 motor coach tours each year March through December to destinations such as New York City, Cape Cod, Savannah, Ga., and Washington D.C. Five years ago Schultz began a relationship with Collette Tours to offer overseas trips to Europe and Australia. She also likes to return to her roots in the business and offer her own motor coach trips to Tigers baseball games, the Detroit theaters and Chicago holiday shopping.

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Dr. Terri Wolf voted favorite for clearer vision

Long-time Okemos optometrist

By DAWN PARKER dlparker@lsj.com

OKEMOS - When you’ve been working on eyes as long as Dr. Terri Wolf has, it’s not hard to have a clear vision of how to serve your patients.

The devoted following of Meridian Eyecare named Wolf their “Favorite Eye Doctor” in the 2010 People’s Choice voting.

Wolf, a previous winner, modestly credited her staff and her 30-plus years in practice as an optometrist at the same Hamilton Road location. “I think we just try to make it a fun experience,” she said.

Patients as friends

She regards many of her patients as friends, and she felt their friendship returned last summer following the death of her mother.

“I got quite a few sympathy cards (from patients),” Wolf recalled.

Wolf said she enjoys getting to know her patients, often asking questions about their families and their interests.

“It makes my job more fun that way,”

HCDC

she added, while noting the relaxing effect it has on patients.

Her years in practice have made Meridian Eyecare a trusted resource, Wolf believes, along with a family-friendly atmosphere they’ve worked hard to cultivate.

“Now we are seeing the children of our original patients,” Wolf said.

Young ones in need of corrective lenses can get help from Dr. Amanda Gorsline, who is certified as a pediatric specialist.

Meridian Eyecare also offers medical eye care, treatment of infections and glaucoma, contact lens and glasses fitting as well as sales of frames and lenses.

The practice also offers a flexible schedule, staying open two evenings a week and on Saturdays between September and May. Wolf thanked her patients for the award.“We’re really proud to be part of the community and be selected,” Wolf said.

“We have great patients who have been loyal for so many years. It’s been a great ride for me and I still enjoy what I do - talking to people and getting to know them.”

File photograph

From left, Meridian Eyecare optician Jennifer White, office manager Renee Kirwin and doctor Terri Wolf gather in front of the children’s eyewear selection at the Okemos office. Wolf was named “Favorite Eye Doctor” in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards.

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Kelly Wheaton favorite tailor

23 People’s Choice Zone 2

By DAWN PARKER dlparker@lsj.com

HASLETT - Kelly Wheaton hopes a trip to Fantastic Alterations, the 2010 People’s Choice winner for “Favorite Tailor”, will be a happy one for both wallet and wardrobe.

“I love what I do, and I think I’m good at it,” Wheaton said. “I enjoy it, but it’s nice to know that the community feels that way too.”

Fantastic Alterations, which is 25 years old, came with Wheaton when she moved with her family from Kansas City in 1997.

While Wheaton and her mom both had storefront shops back home, the move to Michigan brought a desire to start a family and the wish to keep her sewing close to home.

“I originally thought about starting a storefront, and then I thought being able to be at home was an important thing,” Wheaton said.

Photograph by Dawn Parker

Kelly Wheaton works on a shirt at her sewing machine on a recent afternoon. Wheaton, who operates Fantastic Alterations out of her family’s Haslett home, was named Favorite Tailor in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards.

Wheaton credits her mom for sharing her knowledge of sewing, and a few life lessons besides.

“The biggest thing she taught me was there’s nothing I can’t do,” Wheaton said.

“Nobody told me, ‘You can’t do this’.”

Wheaton has handled every kind of article of clothing during her career, including some very special ones.

Wheaton has also encouraged many clients to go “shopping in your closet” in other words, fixing what you have already.

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Dogs are like royalty in Classy Canine’s care

Even the shampoo is an enviable aloe-peppermint mix. Most dogs spend two to three hours at the salon, and Sa Leitao is flexible if EAST LANSING – It’s good to be a dog, a dog needs to be dropped off early for their especially the ones who get to see Karina Sa appointment.

Leitao when they go to Classy Canine.

For her devotion to her furry clients, Sa Love of dogs Leitao was named “Favorite Pet Groomer” in Sa Leitao didn’t start out wanting to be a the 2010 People’s Choice Awards. groomer – in fact, she trained to be an emer“It’s nice to be recognized,” she said. gency medical technician. Fate intervened in “I have some of the best clients. They’re the form of a volunteer stint at the Humane what make me come to work.”

Society.

Classy Canine has been open for around “I found I really loved spending time with three years, but Sa Leitao has been a groomer dogs,” she recalled. for close to 10 years. It’s clear she enjoys what That realization led to her wondering what she does. she could do that involved working with ani“It’s very rewarding to say you love your mals. job,” she said.

Classy Canine has been more successful Dogs that come to Classy Canine are pam- than Sa Leitao hoped, with a faithful and “very pered with a variety of spa treatments de- regular” clientele. signed to leave their coat sparkling and their “I get to see the dogs and how they grow nails perfectly manicured. up,” she said.

There are things their humans might crave, “I’m very lucky, and I have really great cliPhotograph by Dawn Parker like hot oil treatments for dry, flaky skin, blue- ents.” berry facials, sugar scrubs and aromatherapy.

Classy Canine is located at 1880 Haslett Bella, the Wheaten Terrier, enjoys being groomed at Classy Canine in East All dogs get their nails clipped and filed, and ev- Road. For more information, call (517) Lansing. Owner Karina Sa Leitao, named as “Favorite Groomer” in the 2010 ery product Classy Canine uses is all natural.

664-2600 or go online.

People’s Choice Awards, has been at her current location for about three years.

By DAWN PARKER dlparker@lsj.com

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George and Rhea Van Atta, owners of Van Atta’s Greenhouse and Flower Shop, in Haslett, know how to cater to gardeners’ needs.

The 28-year-old garden hotspot has 7,000 of square feet of greenhouse. It often hosts classes and seminars.

The Tasty Twist in East Lansing has been a tradition among soft-serve ice cream lovers for more than 50 years. The highly popular store moved this past spring into the former Baskin-Robbins site.

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Police Chief Wibert — more than a badge

Thank You for Choosing

!

By DAWN PARKER dlparker@lsj.com

EAST LANSING – It’s not always the badge that gets Tom Wibert noticed.

The East Lansing police chief, chosen as “Favorite Police Officer” in the 2010 People’s Choice Awards, figures it’s the other things he does around town that got him the votes.

“I guess I’m surprised. I didn’t expect that, but it feels good,” Wibert said of the award.

The third-generation East Lansing police officer is active in organizations, including service as the president of the Kiwanis Club of East Lansing and the East Lansing Historical Society.

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Wibert: Favorite police officer in a lot of different community activities,” he said.

“Not many people actually make it up to this office to actually see me doing my police work. They see me in the dunk tank on National Night Out. All of the little things – the doughnut-eating contest – all of those little things add up.”

25th anniversary

Wibert marked his 25th anniversary with the department in March.

“It really makes you think about how much has changed

since I started back in 1985, and actually how much hasn’t changed,” he said.

Over his tenure, Wibert said technology and equipment used by officers are radically different while other things remain the same, pointing to three generations all being issued the same model of Smith & Wesson revolver.

“In a sense, it’s the same organization with different tools,” he said, including in-car access to computerized records.

Something else that hasn’t changed, he added, is the department’s commitment to community service. It’s not hard to guess that Wibert is leading the charge.

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“Not many people actually make it up to this office to actually see me doing my police work. They see me in the dunk tank on National Night Out. All of the little things – the doughnut-eating contest – all of those little things add up.”

– East Lansing Police Chief Tom Wibert

People’s Choice Zone 2

Continued from previous page

27

People’s Choice Zone 2

28

Voted the Best by our readers MEDIA

Pharmacist Nancy @ Sparrow Pharmacy Plus Print News Source Photographer J.D. Small Lansing State Journal @ J.D. Small Photography Writer John Schneider @ LSJ Policeman Jeff Hull @ Radio Station WKAR 870 AM Williamston Police Dept.

DJ Personality Scott Simon @ Realtor Louise Omar @ Greater WKAR 870 AM Lansing Real Estate Sales Receptionist Elizabeth Oakley @ David H. Jones Law Office Bank Teller Cathy @ Tailor / Alterations Mr. Truong Independent Bank @ Unique Taylor Barber Rahn Wright @ Travel Agent Tom Keaveney Tonsorial House of Williamston @ docsidecruise.com Car Salesperson Denny Emmer Vet Dr. Nolan |@ Signature Ford of Perry @ Cedar Creek Veterinary Cashier Lesley @ D&W Chiropractor Dr. Ann Pushies @ Pushies Chiropractic Clinic Bakery / Bread Store Great Harvest Dentist Dr. Robert Watts, DDS Bar The Bucket Doctor Dr. Thiede Breakfast Ellie’s Country Kitchen @ Richard Thiede, M.D. Brunch The Riverhouse Inn Eye Doctor Dr. Lemon @ Dr. Lee Lemon Professional Eye Care Burger Brookshire Inn Candy Shop Fabinelli’s Fireman Tim Grant @ Williamston Fire Dept.

Coffee Shop Gracie’s Place Floral Designer Minda Gorsline Deli Zingerman’s @ Grand River Floral Dinner Dusty’s Hair Stylist Kerry Bessert Family Restaurant Brookshire Inn @ 360 Hair Studio Farm Market Lansing City Market Insurance Agent Cliff Hart Italian Spaguolo’s @ Allstate Insurance Lunch Riverhouse Inn Investment Broker Benjamin Mexican Mango’s Eichler @ Edward Jones Middle Eastern Sultan’s Lawyer David H. Jones Massage Therapist Michelle Jump Pizza Spaguolo’s @ The Massage Studio Place to buy Ice Cream Mechanic Bob Hill @ Ron’s Cold Stone Creamery Service Center Place to buy Meat Merindorf Meat Nurse Pam Leiby @ Sparrow Ribs Brookshire Inn Pastor / Minister Rev. Doug Sports Bar The Bucket Bradshaw @ Williamston Free Steak Riverhouse Inn Methodist Church Sub Sandwiches Subway Pet Groomer Stasi Wings Brookshire Inn @ Divine K-9 Spa

PERSONALITIES

June 27, 2010

FOOD & RESTAURANTS

Williamston and Webberville: Here are your choices for the best-of-the-best in the Williamston Enterprise coverage area, from a variety of categories. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

SERVICES Art Framing & Matting Saper Galleries Bank Independennt Bank Child Care Provider Kid’s Corner Childcare Credit Union MSU FCU Dry Cleaning Baryames Cleaners Florist Grand River Floral Funeral Home Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes Gas Station / Quick Mart Admiral - Williamston Gym / Workout Facility Fitness Zone Hair Salon Nu Concepts Heating & Cooling Great Lakes State Heating & Cooling Hospital Sparrow Insurance Agency Allstate - Cliff Hart Martial Arts Paul Christensen ATA Martial Arts Mortgage Company MSU FCU Photo Studio J.D. Small Photography Print Shop Limner Press Real Estate Company Smeal Real Estate Tanning Salon City Lights Travel Agency Dockside Cruises

Most Romantic Place The River House Inn Movie Theater The Sun Theater Places to Dance Club Rumorz Video Rental Store Planet Video

SHOPPING

Antiques / Collectibles Red Cedar Antiques Appliance Store Best Buy Auto Dealership Red Cedar Auto Sales Auto Parts Store Car Quest Book Store Tuesday Books Carpet Store Carpet Depot Cellular Store Verizon, Okemos Furniture Store Klingman’s Gift Shop Mackerel Sky Gallery Grocery Store D&W Fresh Market Hardware Store Williamston True Value Health/Organic Food Better Health Home Improvement Home Depot Jewelry Store Legends Jewelry Lawn & Power Equipment Store D & G Equipment Lumber Company MPC Cashway Lumber Mall Eastwood Towne Center Men’s Store Barrett’s Menswear Music Store Marshall Music Pharmacy Sparrow Pharmacy Plus Pool / Spa Store Dietz Pool & Spa Retail Garden Center Christian’s Greenhouse Art Gallery Saper Galleries Shoe Store Playmakers Bowling Alley Marvel Lanes Conference Center Kellogg Center Specialty Shop Fireworks Glass Sports Store Playmakers Golf Course Brookshire Inn & Golf Course Toy Store Toys R Us Hotel Kellogg Center Women’s Store Sequels Consignment Ice Skating Rink Munn Ice Arena

PLACES TO GO & THINGS TO DO

Brookshire Inn a top culinary spot in area For Lansing Community Newspapers

WILLIAMSTON — Now that summer is here, the folks at the Brookshire Inn want everyone to know that the perennially popular patio is open for business.

Readers of the Williamston Enterprise heaped several awards on the Brookshire Inn’s restaurant in this year’s People’s Choice awards, giving it the nod for Best Burger, Best Family Restaurant, Best

Place for Ribs and Best Place for Wings.

A Williamston institution for 24 years, the Brookshire Inn is located at 205 W. Church St. Visit www.brook shiregolfclub.com for a complete view of its menu and other offerings.

The large patio overlooks the lily pond and gazebo, so families enjoy sitting out there with their kids, General Manager Mary Ann Lippe said. And kids eat free from the children’s menu Monday through Thursday with an adult entrée.

People’s Choice Zone 2

By CHRISTINE MEYER

29

“The golf course is in beautiful shape this year. We came through the winter just great.”

– Mary Ann Lippe, general manager Also, patio parties are up and running on Thursday nights and there’s always a theme, drink specials and live entertainment.

For over a decade now the Brookshire Inn also has been home to one of the

nicest 18-hole golf courses in mid-Michigan. Reviewers say it’s challenging enough for the serious golfer, but with plenty of features for the more casual duffer, as well.

“The golf course is in beautiful shape this year.

We came through the winter just great,” Lippe said.

Her brother, Dave Mahaney owns the Brookshire Inn. The fine reputation of its links, coupled with full banquet facilities that can seat between 200 and 300, make the Brookshire Inn a favorite for golf outings. But it also plays host to plenty of wedding receptions, cor-

Photos by Christie Bleck

The Brookshire Inn also is architecturally appealing. porate meetings, retirement parties and other special events. Both the restaurant and the banquet room feature lovely views of the golf course, with plenty of large windows and cathe-

dral ceilings in the banquet room.

“We’re having an extremely good year for wedding receptions and we also do off-site catering,” Lippe added.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE #1 SALON FOR THE 3 RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR!

The Brookshire Golf Club & Inn is a popular destination for local golfers and people wanting a tasty bite to eat.

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30Twenty-one

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Red Cedar wins Best Auto Sales recognition

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

WILLIAMSTON — Despite the turbulent times in the U.S. car market, Joe Wise can claim with a laugh, “I’m still here!”

And still popular in Williamston because his Red Cedar Auto Sales, 324 W. Grand River Ave., won a Williamston Enterprise People’s Choice Award again for Best Auto Sales.

Wise credits Red Cedar’s longevity partly to its excellent service after the sale.

“That’s very important to us.

We try to help in any way we can, and there’s not a lot of high pressure. We try to keep the price down, and we have less overhead than the big dealers,” said Wise, who has been in business in Williamston for 21 years and an area resident for almost 40 years.

Wife Judy and daughter Jamie also work in the business, along with salesman Dennis Conrad and Steve Conlin, who takes care of

Courtesy photo

Red Cedar Auto Sales has been a part of the Grand River Avenue landscape in Williamston for 21 years. the vehicle cleanup and detailing.

Red Cedar specializes in sales of late-model, one-owner cars and trucks, preferably with factory warranties. While these have been

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much harder to come by recently, Wise says he’s hopeful that once drivers start leasing vehicles again he will be able to rebuild his inventory.

Deer Creek Professional Bldg.

425 W. Grand River, Williamston

Until then, he’s thankful for the Internet, which has drawn buyers to his car lot from as far away as Texas. Red Cedar is online at www.redcedarautosales.com.

“The Internet has been a salvation for small dealerships.

Without that we probably couldn’t do business anymore,” Wise said.

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517.655.1414 …be well now

Gracie’s Place expansion to benefit diners For Lansing Community Newspapers

WILLIAMSTON — Things are really cooking at Gracie’s Place as the Williamston restaurant prepares to open its expanded dining space.

Readers of the Williamston Enterprise voted Gracie’s Place Favorite Coffee Shop in this year’s People’s Choice awards, but the eaterie at 151 S. Putnam St. has become a lot more since opening two short years ago.

The 1,700-square-foot expansion into the building next door also includes a larger kitchen and a catering kitchen in addition to a full-size bar and room for 55 more diners. There’s also talk of offering cooking classes and of holding more specialty parties such as bridal and baby showers.

Owner Dawn-Marie Joseph said she had no qualms about expanding the restaurant, even in today’s shaky

“...So we’re excited that we’ll be able to service the people that much more.”

– Owner Dawn-Marie Joseph economic environment.

“We have to turn people away Thursday through Saturday,” she said. “We are cooking as much as you can possibly cook in the kitchen we have now. So we’re excited that we’ll be able to service the people that much more.”

Joseph describes the food at Gracie’s Place as “American cuisine with an eclectic twist.” Chefs Brian Morden and Ben Donnelly strive to use fresh, in-season ingredients whenever possible. Donnelly, who is Joseph’s son, does all of the baking.

Current dinner favorites include a pork tenderloin with sweet potato hash, and the gourmet macaroni and cheese is a perennial favorite.

There’s also fish, pasta and always a couple of vegetarian offerings.

Gracie’s Place also is open for lunch — and the tomato basil soup has become a classic. For outdoor dining there’s a rear patio that’s even pet friendly.

The restaurant takes its name from Joseph’s granddaughter. Gracie’s father Patrick was the first family member to go into the restaurant business in Williamston six years ago.

When that venture ran into some complications and had to close, Joseph says she vowed to one day open another place. That led to the first incarnation of Gracie’s Place as a coffee shop that

had a small menu for breakfast and lunch.

But it soon became apparent that folks in Williamston were hungry for a full-service restaurant, so achieving that

goal became her focus.

“I wanted to leave (our direction) open to the people of Williamston and what they wanted and this is what they said. It’s been a lot of fun be-

cause people know who we are and it’s so nice to walk through the dining room and see everybody laughing and having a good time,” Joseph said.

CB’s Bucket a survivor

By CHRISTINE MEYER

For Lansing Community Newspapers

WILLIAMSTON — To say that CB’s Bucket Bar and Grille in Williamston has been through a lot would be an understatement.

There’s been a drinking establishment on that Grand River Avenue location for almost a century. But in the last seven years its current owner Craig Banwell has endured two fires and a tornado.

“He’s been through a lot and he’s kept pushing and plugging away to get it open every time,” said Marc Wolbert, general manager. “He’s remodeled it into a beautiful restaurant and brought his world experience into Williamston.”

CB’s Bucket won Best Sports Bar/Bar in this year’s People’s Choice awards from the

People’s Choice Zone 2

By CHRISTINE MEYER

31

readers of the Williamston Enterprise.

Banwell has lived in both Chicago and Boca Raton, Fla., and the new and improved Bucket reflects both of those cultures.

The centerpiece of the remodeled space is a burled cherry wood, one-of-a-kind bar, from which the bartenders pour nightly drink specials.

Coming from the kitchen these days is an upgraded menu, with items such as coconut shrimp satay, steaks, pasta, shepherd’s pie and chicken pot pie.

“It’s an all-American menu in a beautiful setting,” that’s also family friendly, Wolbert says.

Upstairs there’s a Chicago-style nightclub with live music, and outside there’s also patio dining.

“Thank you for voting me

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Lea Estes 517-230-3093

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June 27, 2010

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People’s Choice Zone 2

32

Christie Bleck

Meat and more

Christie Bleck

Best theater

Jared Hunt mans the meat counter at Merindorf Meats & More, 500 Williamston Center Road, this year’s People’s Choice winner for Best Place to Buy Meat in Williamston. However, patrons also can buy fish, cheese and other high-quality food items at the store.

The Sun Theatre, 150 W. Grand River, is the People’s Choice winner for Best Theater. It boasts new seats, paint and carpet, with tickets selling for $4.

Thank you for voting

D&G Equipment, Inc. Best of the Best in Lawn & Power Equipment Store We are the best because of our faithful customers and we pledge to continue earning your trust & patronage.

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