Mecosta County Convention & Visitor's Bureau

EXPLORE Mecost a Count y The Dragon

Michigan’s unique adventure sports destination

MECOSTA COUNTY

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Mecosta County Welcome Center For all things Mecosta County

PREPARING YOU FOR ANY FUTURE. MOVING YOU FERRIS FORWARD. EASY TRANSFER

FREE APPLICATION

IN-DEMAND DEGREES

SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID TEST-OPTIONAL PATHS

Get instruction by expert faculty who have worked in the fields they teach. Study in a program crafted by our industry advisors. Let our experience and partnerships become your edge.

Change is inevitable, but one thing remains constant: We’re here to prepare you for it.

Ferris State University is an equal opportunity institution. For information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit ferris.edu/non-discrimination.

2 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

EXPLORE Mecost a Count y BIG RAPIDS

COME PLAY IN MOTHER NATURE’S PLAYGROUND

Escaping for an afternoon excursion, weekend getaway, or even if you are looking to relocate to the area, we have the information and resources to make your stay the best it can be.

Explore endless trails for hiking, biking, snowmobiling or snowshoeing while taking in the wonder of wildlife and scenic views.

Enjoy over 100 lakes, streams and of course the mighty Muskegon River. All are perfect for fishing, tubing, canoeing or kayaking, boating and water-skiing.

Experience award-winning golf courses for the beginner and the more accomplished. We also feature a number of disc golf courses here in Mecosta County.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Tim Rath PAGE LAYOUT Ariel Moreno Rachael Killough ADVERTISING Tim Hahn Ken Kasprzak Steven Mayes

ABOUT THIS

Excite your taste buds at one of our great dining venues, breweries and wineries. From your favorite chain restaurants to unique local cuisine and outside dining, all are sure to put a smile on your face.

Events are also abundant throughout the county, no matter what the season. From the month long Festival of the Arts celebration to the annual Festival of Lights Parade, Farmers Markets, free Music and annual Fireworks displays. Our communities are filled with festivals, parades and celebrations all year long.

End your day of adventures at one of our great lodging facilities with beautiful accommodations. Hotel amenities available include pools, hot tubs, exercise facilities, business resources and hot meals.

Everything you need to Create Your Own Adventure can be found at www.bigrapids.org or by stopping into the new Mecosta County Welcome Center at 127 S. State St. Big Rapids, MI 49307.

Connie Koepke - Executive Director Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff

MAGAZINE

The Mecosta County Visitors Guide is published annually by Pioneer Group Publications and is distributed through the Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

For advertising information, questions or comments about this magazine, please contact The Pioneer Group at (231) 796-4831 or by e-mail at trath@pioneergroup.com.

Kayla Towery Executive Assistant

Connie Koepke Executive Director

Sandra Braden Office Manager bigrapids.org

• 3

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OSCEOLA COUNTY

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Falcon Head Golf Clu 231-796-2613 Northland Dr Big Rapi Ferris State Katke G 231-591-3765 1003 Perry St 49307

Continuation of Canadia

Dunhill Dr.....................B6,7 Dunkirk Dr ......................B7 E Blue Lake Dr..........C1;D1 E Circle Dr ......................A3 E Club House Dr....C6;D6,7 E Royal Ct .................B5;C5 E Royal Rd .............B4,5;C5 E School Section Lake Rd........................D2,3 Edgewater Dr..................D7 Eagle Pass......................A2 East .................................C4 Eddy Ln...........................C2 Elmwood Ct ....................D7 Evergreen Ln..................C5 Fawn Lake Dr............C7;D7 Fawn Ridge Rd .........C7;D7 Forest Pines ...................D3 Fox Run Cir ....................C7 Fox Squirrel Ln ...........A4,5 Gilder Ct..........................C5 Golf Port Dr N ........A2;B2,3 Golf Port Dr S ..............A2,3 Grand Junction ..............A1 Grant Rd .........................D1 Halifax Dr ........................A3 Hawthorn ........................C5 Hawthorne Ln.................C5 Hayes Rd...................A1;D1 Heather Ln ......................B4 Hidden Links ..................A7 Highland Trl ....................A4 Hill St...............................C3 Hilltop Rd........................B5 Holiday Dr.......................B6 Holly Dr ...........................C5 Hoover Dr .......................C7 Hudson Bay Dr...............A4 Huron Ct .........................A3 Indian Ct .........................D6 Island Bl..........................C4 Island Ct..........................B5 Island Dr .........................B5 Jefferson ........................D5 Jenny Ln ......................B3,4 John ................................C3 Kelly’s Ct...................C5;D5 Killarney....................A7;B7 Kilkenny Dr.....................B7 King’s Ct .........................C7 Knoll Dr...........................B5 Lake.................................B1 Lake Dr.........................C2,3 Lakeview Dr....................C5 Lila Ct..............................A4 Little Hemlock .............C6,7 Little River Ct ................ C6 Lookout Pl ......................B5 Lone Oak Dr ...................A2 Lone Wolf Trl ...............A2,3 Loneview Dr ................D6,7 Lost Canyon Ct ..............A2 Lost Canyon Dr .....A2;B2,3 Madison Av.....................D6 Main St ...................C6,7;D7 Maldon ............................A4 Mallard Dr .......................C5 Maple...............................C1

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• 5

The ballroom at the Holiday Inn in Big Rapids – an ideal space for large dinner events.

A boardroom at the Holiday Inn in Big Rapids – the perfect place to host a meeting in Mecosta County.

Mecosta County an ideal destination for conferences When Shila Kiander joined the Michigan Association of Equalization Directors board seven years ago, Kiander – who works as the Director of Mecosta County’s equalization department – knew she wanted to host the group’s annual conference in her home county someday.

Kiander recently took over as president of the group of county Equalization Directors and immediately went to work at making her plan a reality. Now, for three days in July 2020, Kiander expects Equalization Directors from all over the state to descend upon Big Rapids and the surrounding area – and she couldn’t be happier

with her decision to hold the conference in Mecosta County.

“I think the Equalization Directors are going to be happy with everything we have put together,” Kiander said. “I am biased, but I think Mecosta County is an excellent place to host a conference.”

Kiander desired a venue large enough to hold all these people in one conference room for largescale presentations. She also needed a place that offered smaller rooms, where the big group could split off into smaller teams, as well as food service, hotel space and entertainment options.

The Annual Michigan Association of Equalization Directors Conference draws a big crowd, Kiander said. In addition to Equalization Directors from Michigan’s 83 counties, it also welcomes members from the Michigan Assessors Association, as well as vendors and state

Kiander said she made her first calls out to businesses in the Canadian Lakes area. While they offered nice facilities, she said, they were not big enough for what she was looking for – although they’d be well-suited for a smaller conference, meeting or wedding reception.

The Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcomes You! 52nd Annual Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival

Hemlock Park Big Rapids Monday, September 7, 2020 Labor Day – 10am-4pm Mecostacounty.com or call (231) 796-7649 for more information.

6 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

government officials.

Kiander quickly found an answer in Big Rapids, at the Holiday Inn, which offers more than 18,000 square feet of function space and 11 meeting rooms, in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner options and several hotel room options.

“The Holiday Inn is truly perfect for us. They can do it all. There are other great places in this area, but nothing big enough for what we needed,” Kiander said.

Being in Big Rapids also allowed Kiander to have a number of entertainment options at the ready. She arranged a tour of the Ice Mountain spring water bottling facility in Stanwood – which is sure to be a big hit with a crowd that is interested in big buildings and property tax administration, she said – as well as a scavenger hunt around downtown Big Rapids.

“We didn’t want to do something as simple as a pub crawl. We wanted to walk around, shop, socialize and have a good time,” Kiander said.

“Big Rapids gave us a chance to do that. There are plenty of interesting things to see and places to go eat and drink. Some of the business owners here will even stay open later if you tell them about the business opportunity you’re giving them.”

Kiander said she’s looking forward to the conference in July.

“Smaller communities like Big Rapids that have places like the one we landed in can really have great conferences,” Kiander said.

The Holiday Inn in Big Rapids is located at 1005 Perry Ave.

In addition to the Holiday Inn, conference organizers in Mecosta County may find success with the Hampton Inn in Big Rapids. It can accommodate 30 people in a professional boardroom setting. Meetings can be customized by adding additional services, such as food and beverage offerings, sleeping rooms, audio/visual and more.

depending on the timeframe, what is happening when people are in town.

Connie Koepke, the Executive Director of the Mecosta County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, said the MCCVB can offer much to prospective conference-holders, as well.

“Either in the summer or the winter,” Koepke said. “There are a lot of things going on, indoors or out, and plenty of space to accommodate people.”

“We can create welcome bags for anyone who needs them – we do them a lot for Ferris State students and their parents, real estate agents and any conferences the Holiday Inn puts on,” Koepke said. “They include a visitor’s guide, a county map, a map of the local area, and

Other places to stay include Country Inn and Suites, Quality Inn and Suites and Super 8 Motel, all in Big Rapids, Tullymore Golf Resort and the Inn at St. Ives, in Stanwood and Morley Motel, in Morley. For more information, visit bigrapids.org/Meetings

“We’re happy to work with anyone. The better we look while we’re here, the more likely they will say, ‘I want to bring my conference here.’”

Koepke said Mecosta County is a good place to hold a conference.

We offer 684 beautiful campsites in west central Michigan We are committed to providing quality recreational experiences for our county residents and visiting guests!

Hiking, Biking, Camping, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Special Events and more! www.MecostaCountyParks.com

Online reservations accepted!

Cabin rentals available

231-832-3246

Brower Park

240 Camp Sites

School Section Lake Park 170 Camp Sites

Merrill-Gorrel Paris Park Campground 71 Camp Sites 150 Camp Sites

Haymarsh & Tubbs Lake State Forest Campgrounds

Davis-Bridge Boat launch Day Use Park

53 Rustic Sites

bigrapids.org

• 7

From left, Hometown Health Food employees Karen Brookshear and Gerry Home offer unique grocery options with a smile.

Chris Simon, a bartender at Remus Tavern, is known for slinging drinks with a smile.

Unique grocery options available at Hometown Health Foods in Remus are pictured.

Jo Jo’s Lunch Buffet employee Jessica Black serves up pizza, grinders and salads in Remus.

Remus - A hidden gem in Mecosta County Located on the eastern edge of Mecosta County, midway between Big Rapids and Mount Pleasant, lies what is apparently a sleepy, blinkand-you’ll-miss-it town called Remus. What you might not realize in traveling from point a to point b is that Remus is one of the best-kept destination secrets in Central Michigan.

There are places to eat or to socialize, like the Remus Tavern. Jo Jo’s Lunch Buffet offers pizza, grinders and salads. Hometown Health Foods provides fresh, unique grocery options.

From spring to November, Hearty Harvest is available with the freshest, tastiest vegetables you can find anywhere and offering activities for the kids. It doesn’t get any better. You can gather friends for a night on the lanes at the Remus Bowling Center.

For those looking for that perfect place to tie the knot, look no further than Serendipity Farms. This Amish-built facility offers a beautiful, rustic venue for couples to begin their lives together in the 8 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

company of friends and family If you like fresh air, then you’ll relish in the best Michigan’s outdoor venues. Whether you like fishing, water sports, or just being near the water, Remus is a great central location. Numerous lakes with public access are all nearby, such as Horsehead Lake and Lake Isabella. Remus is also very close to Canadian Lakes, with public campsites and beaches like School Section Lake.

Golfers can also find numerous courses of varying difficulty nearby Remus. St. Ives, the Royal, The Pines, and Tullymore are some of the many courses very close to town.

Where Remus really makes some noise (literally) is every year, it is home to the Wheatland Music Festival. The Wheatland Music Organization (WMO) is a nonprofit organization that is pledged to preserving traditional music and arts.

Throughout the year, Wheatland has events, and classes for children, called the Wheatscouts, that aims at music appreciation. WMO also has

The exterior of Remus Tavern is pictured.

The exterior of Jo Jo’s Lunch Buffet in Remus is pictured.

functions for adults and the elderly to help develop creativity in the community. Where they do this best is with the festival.

The Wheatland Traditional Arts Weekend is a celebration of bluegrass and native music that hosts acts on their two stages every 2nd weekend of September up to Memorial Day weekend. Thousands of people flock annually to the event and even camp at the festival to fully take in the atmosphere – indeed, the population of Remus multiplies manyfold during Wheatland.

“It’s a fantastic time to set up a tent

and listen to some cool music,” said Amber Jackson, a resident of Mecosta County. “It’s pretty eclectic, actually. I personally like the second stage. It’s more of an intimate venue. They have some pretty big bands on the main stage. People just set up lawn chairs and watch music the whole time.”

Wheatland takes place the 2nd weekend in September and takes the Remus population up from 3,000 people to 15,000 people.

Whether you’re there for Wheatland or some other reason, it’s worth the time to slow down and check out all Remus has to offer.

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bigrapids.org

• 9

BY RADISSON

Stay Five Minutes from Ferris State University The Country Inn & Suites By Radisson®, Big Rapids, MI welcomes you with free coffee and cookies upon arrival and throughout your stay. Located off U.S. 131 in Mecosta County, our hotel places you near numerous lakes, trails and golf courses for outdoor amusement. If you are here on business, companies like General Mills and Ice Mountain are just minutes away, and families appreciate our proximity to Ferris State University’s sporting events and art galleries.

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• •

Meeting rooms that can fit up to 25 people, keep up exercise with our • • well-equipped fitness center, and take care of work projects in our business center.

•

•

Hot breakfast Clean and comfy bed Free WiFi in every room Gym/fitness center use Rooms with microwave, mini-fridge and ample work space Indoor pool, fitness center and guest laundry Walking distance to 2 major supermarkets and many restaurants Comfortable rooms with a sofa bed, extra amenities and more space Centrally located to town and Highway 131 Meeting space for up to 25 people

231 - 527 - 7333 15320 Waldron Way Big Rapids, MI 49307 10 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Farm fresh options at local farmers markets MECOSTA COUNTY – For a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods and handmade items, visitors need look no further than Mecosta County’s farmers markets.

Visitors and locals alike can find these items and more at Mecosta County’s many options, including the Big Rapids Downtown Farmers Market, Barryton Farmers Market and Stone Hatchery Farmers Market.

Most of these options are open from May to October and offer shoppers the opportunity to purchase fresh produce, while also supporting local farmers.

In addition to finding fresh produce, local farmers markets give shoppers the chance to purchase flowers as well.

The Big Rapids Downtown Farmers Market is convenient for many, as it is located downtown in the Big Rapids City Hall parking lot, 226 N. Michigan Ave. Shoppers interested in seeing the different vendors at this farmers market can shop from May to October. It is open from noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, as well as from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays.

At Mecosta County’s many farmers markets, shoppers can find a variety of local food options.

Locals and visitors alike can find fresh produce in Barryton as well, at the Barryton Farmers Market. Visitors can attend this farmers market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. It is located within Central Park (M-66 Park) and

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• 11

showcases locally grown produce and other farmrelated products. This farmers market runs from May to October as well, but dates are tentative.

Interested visitors can shop the Stone Hatchery Farmers Market for local produce, crafts, baked goods and jewelry. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., every other Thursday. However, dates have yet to be announced. This farmers market can be found at the Paris Stone Hatchery, 21331 Northland Drive.

With the many farmers markets offered in Mecosta County, shoppers will find no shortage of options when it comes to farm-to-table dining, homemade desserts, arts and crafts and more.

The Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau offers details of our area Farmers Markets at bigrapids.org. Check out the calendar for ALL local markets as well!

(Check MCCVB Calendar for this year’s dates of farmer’s markets.)

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12 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Mecosta County deer ranches offer opportunities to hunters Deer ranches in Mecosta County have provided hunters with hunting experiences of a lifetime.

“We bring a lot of people from the south to the north country,” he said.

Two of them are Two Hats Ranch and Sanctuary Ranch, which provide hunters with a chance to hunt high-quality whitetail deer.

Two Hats also offers hunts for youth who have various challenges, plus veterans.

Two Hats Ranch provides approximately 1,300 acres of open fields. It’s located only seven miles from downtown Big Rapids, in Austin Township.

The Bettis family, which includes Skipper and his son Colby, own the ranch.

“We’ve been in the area since 1991,” Colby Bettis said. “This is our third ranch in the area.

Two Hats started in 2014.”

The ranch has a variety of services, Bettis said.

“Historically, operations like this just had hunting and we hunted from August to December,” he said. “The rest of the year, we shut down. As of late, we’ve expanded out and we’re really diversifying from our supper club on the weekend to corporate retreats to the bed and breakfast. We just put in a thousandyard shooting range.

“Throughout the season on the hunting side, we get calls from time to time when there’s a sense of urgency and we can’t wait until next year to get someone in,” Bettis said. “It has to happen this year. We try to take care of it.”

Along with deer, Bettis said there’s a healthy turkey population at the ranch for the hunting experience.

Sanctuary Ranch, located in the Stanwood area, was founded in 1978. Sanctuary has become the spot for whitetail deer enthusiasts.

The ranch is four square miles in size with hills, gullies and swamps. The Sanctuary has intensely managed whitetail deer, with hunters coming from all across the country.

Megan Giuliani works full time with the Sanctuary as the administrative coordinator. The Sanctuary is owned by a corporation, with Pat Bollman as majority stockholder.

“We’re branching out to where we can serve the community and people looking for outdoor activities all year.”

The ranch is just under a combined 2,500 acres. There’s two locations, including one off of M-20 in Morton Township.

Bettis said most of his ranch’s hunters come from outside the state.

“The property that actually has our lodge is off of 8 Mile,” Giuliani said. “That’s actually a larger

piece of property than the one on M-20.”

While hunters come from all across the country, there’s also some from the state and local area, Giuliani said.

“Our season starts in September and ends in the end of November,” she said. “We’ve always been seasonable.

“We’ve been around for a very long time and we’re good at what we do. Things are going well. We like to say you’ll have the opportunity to harvest the animal in the class you’re looking for.”

Super G Ranch is located at the corner or 155th and 5 Mile Road and offer a wide array of guided hunts on 445 acres of land with buffalo, pigs, water buffalo and exotic rams. It’s open yearround.

In addition to private hunting ranches, Mecosta County also boasts a huge amount of public land available for hunting. Mecosta County itself is home to over 14,000 acres of state land. For an interactive map, visit bit.ly/36oZ3Yw. The Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a multitude of resources, including a link to procure a license from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, on its website, bigrapids.org/hunting-in-mecostacounty. bigrapids.org

• 13

Rockin’ to the beat

Mecosta County to host summertime music festivals From classic rock to old country, Americana to Celtic, music of all genres can be found filling the air in Mecosta County each summer as local organizations host a variety of music festivals for people of all ages and interests to enjoy.

Those who want to boogie in Big Rapids have no shortage of options, including the popular Pocket Park Music Series and the Bandshell Concert Series.

Blues, Brews & BBQ

Hosted by the Big Rapids Downtown Business Association, the Pocket Park Music Series offers free concerts to the public every Friday throughout the summer in downtown Big Rapids. The concerts begin at noon and continue until 2 p.m., allowing them to coincide with the seasonal farmers market which takes place downtown as well.

The series typically runs from

the end of May to the beginning of August and brings together a wide variety of musicians from the surrounding area and across the state.

In addition to the Pocket Park Music Series, people can tap their feet during the Bandshell Concert Series, which consists of shows Wednesday evenings from mid-June to mid-August at the bandshell in Hemlock Park in Big Rapids.

These free, outdoor concerts offer guests and residents of the area a chance to enjoy the warm weather and longer summer days by listening to music in the park with friends, family and neighbors.

While these concert series provide music enthusiasts something to do all summer, there also are a couple large festivals people will want to mark on their calendars ahead

Dr. Edward K. Mallett’s

Pocket Park Music Series

Tuba Bach Music Festival Enriching the lives of adults and children in Big Rapids and West-Central Michigan through exemplary performances and programs presented by world-class musicians

Our 2020 Tuba Bach Festival will be presented September 12 — October 18, with concerts presented Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons, as well as family concerts presented Saturday afternoons. For more information about these programs, as well as other Tuba Bach events throughout the year, please visit our website.

Wheatland Music Festival 14 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

www.tubabach.org

Country music singer/songwriter John Berry performed at Williams Auditorium on Dec. 9. of time.

Among these events is the Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival, which is sponsored by the Mecosta County CVB and organized by the MCCVB and the Lions Club of Big Rapids.

many vendor booths set up at the event.

The schedule for the 2020 Blues, Brews and BBQ event has not yet been set, but more information can be found at bigrapids.org/bluesfest.

Also taking place at the bandshell in Hemlock Park, the event brings together an all-star class of blues performers for a day filled with music, food and fun.

More than 575 attended a Dec. 9 Christmas concert performed by country singer/songwriter John Berry, sponsored by the Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

While people enjoy the lineup of musicians, they also can stop for a bite to eat at one of the

“What better to way to kick-off the holiday season than with the multi-talented musician

John Berry here in Big Rapids,” MCCVB Executive Director Connie Koepke said. “It was an honor, as well as an exciting opportunity, to work with such a talented and humble artist. I certainly understand why he is known as one of the nicest guys in country music.”

Anyone looking for a bit of a bigger music festival need look no further than the annual Wheatland Music Festival in Remus.

Now in its 47th year, the threeday festival attracts thousands of people of all ages to the 160-

acre festival site, located at 7251 50th Ave., Remus, for music on a variety of stages, workshops, demonstrations, dances, impromptu jam sessions, arts and crafts and more.

This year’s Wheatland Music Festival is scheduled for Sept.

11-13, with lineup and ticket information to be available soon at wheatlandmusic.org.

While these are a few of the main music festivals people can find throughout Mecosta County, more information about summer concerts can be found at bigrapids.org/annual-events.

M U S I C I N M ECOSTA CO U NT Y • Ferris State University Community Band Free Concerts Wednesdays (June-July) Big Rapids, Canadian Lakes

• Blues, Brews & BBQ June-July Big Rapids

• Music on the River June-August Mecosta

• Pocket Park Concert Series Fridays (May-August) Big Rapids

• Wheatland Music Festival September Remus

• Ferris State University Jazz Orchestra Various (year-round)

• Bandshell Concert Series Wednesdays (July-August) Big Rapids

• Tuba Bach Concert Series September-October Big Rapids bigrapids.org

• 15

16

The American flag was flown proudly from high above during the Veterans Day Parade in Big Rapids.

Big Rapids Veterans Day Parade brings community together It was 25 degrees and it had snowed the night before, covering Michigan Avenue in a frozen blanket. People were cold in this too early onset of winter, but still, they came to celebrate the Veterans.

For the second year in a row, Big Rapids held its Annual Veterans Day Parade downtown, and at least a thousand people braved the weather to cheer those that have served.

“We believe it’s been 15 or 16 years since the city (of Big Rapids) held a Veterans Day Parade,” said John Duvall, organizer of the event for the Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “It was just one of those things that, as a Veteran and for the Veterans we have here, the pride (Big Rapids) has for them, it was something we needed to bring back for the community.”

Duvall is a Veteran himself and currently works at Lake-Osceola State Bank. He served in the Navy from 1986-90, and had the distinction of being one of the last people to serve on a battleship before they were decommissioned.

“They didn’t mothball my ship,” Duvall said. “They didn’t turn her into razor blades or a coral reef. They turned her into a floating museum. I’ve had the good fortune to visit my old girl twice since I’ve been out.”

Despite the bitter cold, the parade was a success. Area middle schools came out to attend the event.

“We purchased miniature flags from the American Legion and handed them out to all the students,” Duvall said. “I think seeing all the students 16 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Despite the cold, area schoolchildren came out in droves and lined up and down Michigan Avenue during the Big Rapids Veterans Day Parade.

17

An officer from the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, mounted on horseback, is pictured during the Veterans Day Parade. waving the flags had a pretty big impact on all the Veterans in the parade and the crowd.

I really thank the schools for their participation in making the parade such a success.”

“The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Steve Masters from Sunny 97.3 was doing a live broadcast of the parade over the radio. This year the parade chose Korean War Veterans to be Grand Marshals.

“The parade was really wellattended by the students and the community,” Duvall said. “There was really a lot that went into it that I think brought people out.

We had the involvement of a lot of community organizations beyond just the Veterans’ groups.

They really pushed hard to get everyone out, despite it being just above 20 degrees.”

“Those boys rode in the wagon despite how cold it was,” Duvall said. “We had heated vehicles for them, but the majority wanted to tough it out.”

Pat Currie, of Currie’s Towing, set up loudspeakers in Pocket Park on Michigan Avenue and live-announced each group as they moved past and kept the attendees active and energized.

“Pat really got the kids hootin’ and hollerin’,” said Duvall. “He made it really special for the veterans.”

Carlleen Rose of the Old Pioneer Store/Kilwin’s Chocolates sang

The AmVets Riders, Duvall’s Veteran motorcycle group, also decided to tough out the weather by taking their bikes into the snow. Honor guards from the Big Rapids Fire Department, the American Legion and the Ferris State University ROTC also participated. The parade had three military vehicles from the 180th Transportation Company, out of Muskegon, and four more vehicles from the Delta 125 in Big Rapids.

The American flag was flown proudly from high above during the Veterans Day Parade in Big Rapids.

“Those are really cool,” Duvall said. “They were mounted with 240s and .50 cals and rocket launchers. That always gets a big rise out of the crowd.”

“We’re just so thankful for the community involvement this year,” Duvall said. “People really came out in numbers. I spent rest of the day with participants

and Veterans and that’s all anyone could say. I just want to say thank you to everyone that came out. I’m really looking forward to next year.” bigrapids.org

• 17

A day trip to Ferris State University Ferris State University is the jewel of Mecosta County in regards to public attention. Not only is it a premier learning institution, it has numerous public points of interest to do and see. Here’s a brief overview of what’s available to the public.

The Card Wildlife Education Center Donated by Ferris alumnus Roger Card, this exhibit features more than 200 taxidermy specimens from around the world. The center is open to the public and often hosts educational trips to schools. You can call the center at (231) 591-5387 for more information or to schedule a school trip.

Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia The largest of its kind, the Jim Crow museum shines a light at our society’s dark underbelly of racism. The museum’s purpose in prominently displaying artifacts old and new is to create discussions with people about race. The museum features a virtual tour and a dialogue room where people can discuss what they’ve seen.

People can call the museum at (231) 591-5873, or email at jimcrowmuseum@ ferris.edu.

Ferris State Fine Art Gallery This exhibit hosts a variety of museumquality exhibits each year to enrich the student body and the public in their gallery

in the Rankin Building, as well as in public spaces around campus. You can call (231) 591-2536 for more information or visit ferris.edu/HTMLS/othersrv/art_gallery/ upcoming.htm on future exhibits.

John and Rhea Smith Greenhouse This living laboratory is not only a valuable resource to biology students, but is open to the public during the school year.

The greenhouse is only open during weekdays while school is in session or by appointment. For more nformation, call (231) 591-3567 or email lodholta@ferris.edu.

Williams Auditorium Ferris State hosts an exemplary venue where the public can enjoy theatrical productions, symphonies and speaking engagements. You can call (231) 5913676 for more information, or email williams_auditorium@ferris.edu or visit their website, ferris.edu/HTMLS/othersrv/arts/.

Katke Golf Course Located just west of campus, duffers can enjoy some time on the links at Ferris’ 18hole course in the heart of Big Rapids. Not only is Katke host to a nationally recognized Professional Golf Management Program, a top-100 driving range, a beautiful 18-hole course, and a pro shop, Katke can now boast an indoor course. The Ken Janke Sr.

The Ken Janke Sr. Learning Center, located at Ferris State University’s Katke Golf Course, invites golfers to practice their swings indoors.

The Ferris State University Fine Art Gallery hosts a variety of museum-quality exhibits each year to enrich the student body.

18 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Learning Center is available to golfers year-round to practice their swings on 39 different courses.

Call (231) 591-3765 or email katkegolfcourse@ ferris.edu for more information or to schedule tee times. You can also visit katkegolf.com.

Racquet and Fitness Facility Whether you are a fan of hitting little yellow balls around or just need a good sweat, Ferris has a bevy of courts and exercise equipment for the public to use. Just south of town is the Racquet and Fitness Facility. It boasts four indoor and 12 outdoor courts, and three racquetball courts. The fitness faculty provides free weights and exercise machines off all kinds, personal training, and classes. Walk in or call (231) 5912217 for questions, register for classes or to reserve a court. You can also register online at ferrisracquetandfitness.com/fitness/.

Ewigleben Ice Arena/Wink Arena/Top Taggart Field

The Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia, located on Ferris State University’s campus in Big Rapids, showcases an important and unpleasant part of our country’s history.

Free & Open to the Public The Ferris State University Fine Art Gallery offers rotating exhibits on a regular basis.

We also have a large collection of prints available for purchase.

Sports at Ferris State University has always been a point of pride and enjoyment for the public. In recent years, the Bulldogs were in the national championship for NCAA Division I hockey, NCAA Division II football and they won the NCAA Division II basketball title. Aside from each program’s games, high school games, as well as youth hockey leagues, the public can also enjoy open skating, figure skating and educational programs.

For more information, call (231)591-2881 or visit their website ferrisstatebulldogs.com/icearena/index.htm.

Open to everyone! Free Admission!

Come enjoy the new Michigan Wetlands & African Safari Wildrooms.

The Card Wildlife Education Center is a 5,000 square foot natural history museum showcasing over 180 wildlife specimen from around the world. Located on the Ferris State University campus in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Visit our website for open hours or to schedule a guided tour.

Located on the Big Rapids Campus view our upcoming schedule at www.ferris. edu.gallery Find us on

Exhibitions • Collaborations • Speaker Series • Presentations 19 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Arts & Sciences Commons 011 820 Campus Drive, Big Rapids, MI 49307

The Dragon is coming It sounds like the name of an imposing new rollercoaster – but to people in Mecosta and Newaygo counties, it’s something else entirely. Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam will be a vast 47mile trail which will wind its way through the two counties when completed.

hikers, nature enthusiasts and even dogsledders can enjoy the Dragon.

“The Dragon is an amazing trail that’s in the process of being built,” Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau (MCCVB) Executive Director Connie Koepke said. “There’s been a committee working on the project for eight or nine years.

The project just broke ground in the fall, and when it’s completed, the Dragon will be 47 miles of connected trail.”

The estimated $3.6-million project is mostly on property owned by Consumers Energy.

More than 30 more private, educational, public and nonprofit organizations have given to the Dragon. Mecosta and Newaygo have each invested $150,000, while the rest of the funding comes from fundraising and grants.

The trail will be designed for non-motorized use. At only two feet across, mountain bicyclists,

“They’ve done amazing work keeping (the trail) as natural as they can without destroying anything to do with Mother Nature in the area,” Koepke said.

“The trail is so unique, not only in the northern United States but also in Canada,” Koepke said.

“When this is completed, we’re

A promotional poster for Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam is pictured.

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Mecosta County CVB Board of Directors presents sponsorship check to Scott Falkner of The Dragon Fundraising Committee

going to have a very unique destination here.”

“The Dragon creates a loop around the Hardy Dam reservoir,” Mecosta County Parks Superintendent Jeff Abel said. “You don’t find property bordering such a large lake impoundment that’s undeveloped very often in Michigan. We’re able to do this because it is all land donated by Consumers.” “(The Dragon) is a loop trail,” Abel said.

“The majority of trails like this, you go out in one direction and you need to backtrack to return. The Dragon is a loop, so a more experienced mountain biker could tame it in a day. Those that would like to break it down can do different sections over several days.

There are many campgrounds and parks and other amenities near the trail. There are a lot

of options to stay overnight. The loop and the length aspect is what make it unique.”

the hotels, attract visitors, and promote the county; as Koepke put it, “Put heads in beds.”

The broader hope is that the Dragon’s appeal will bring a lot of business and traffic into Mecosta and Newaygo for surrounding businesses. Restaurants, breweries and shops should all see a boost into the area’s economies.

“Huge recreational opportunities like the Dragon are going to draw families,” Koepke said. “Our goal will be to promote national level events, national mountain biking events and national dogsledding events. These events draw tens of thousand of people.

We’re talking a tremendous scale we’ll bring to Mecosta and Newaygo counties.”

“The Dragon will put Mecosta and Newaygo on the map to the people who might not be aware of all these two counties have to offer,” Abel said.

The MCCVB’s goal is attracting visitors to Mecosta County as their funding is received through a local assessment collected by area hotels.. Their mission is to promote

The trail is expected to be completed in 2021, with at least five miles of it available for public use as early as next Spring. For more information about Michigan’s Dragon at Hardy Dam, visit bigrapids.org.

bigrapids.org

• 21

Enjoy a preview of the beautifully crafted blocks:

The Remus Area Historical Society Presents:

Mecosta County Quilt Trail

the

Quilt Trails are a unique grassroots public art movement that spans the entire country with hundreds of quilt trails, having started in Ohio in 2001.

Michigan has close to 20 different trails consisting of artistic quilt designs that adorn barns, homes, businesses, and other structures throughout the State. Mecosta County began a Quilt Block Trail in 2013 and has close to 70 different colorful blocks celebrating our rural heritage. New blocks are added throughout the year.

remus.org/category/ mecosta-county-quilt-trail

Experience the wonderfully unique & traditional creations among the beautiful Michigan landscape.

Remus Area Historical Society (RAHS), a Michigan nonprofit 501c3 corporation, is located at 324 S. Sheridan Ave., Remus, MI 49340 Email: museum@winntel.net call 989.967.8153 or visit www.remus.org

23 MILE RD

21 MILE RD

23 120TH aVE

20 MILE RD

131

16 MILE RD

53 54

41

9 10 6 16 4 5 15 12 20 1,2 3 REMUS

60TH aVE

8 MILE RD

7 MILE RD

37 38

6 MILE RD

11 5 MILE RD

63 62

51

49 JEffERSON RD

85TH aVE

130TH aVE

155TH aVE

3 MILE RD

MORLEY

7

PIERCE RD

13

MILLBROOK

66

JaCKSON RD

180TH aVE

200TH aVE

50

60TH aVE

80TH aVE

52 4 MILE RD

4 MILE RD

JEffERSON RD

80TH aVE

5 MILE RD

3 MILE RD

90TH aVE 7 MILE RD

110TH aVE

6 MILE RD

14

BUCHaNaN RD

12 MILE RD

10TH aVE

150TH aVE

Lake Mecosta

Canadian Lakes

7 MILE RD

35

11 MILE RD 36 45 46 42 40 434439MECOSTA 31

32

17

15 MILE RD

33 34

20

8 MILE RD PIERCE RD

131

Horsehead Lake

13 MILE RD

140TH aVE

STANWOOD

8 TafT RD

40TH aVE

14 MILE RD

27 28

170TH aVE

48

17 MILE RD

15 MILE RD

30

12 MILE RD

47

8 MILE RD

20 19

18

ROGERS HEIGHTS

HaYES RD

230TH aVE

19 MILE RD

70TH aVE

200TH aVE

29

100TH aVE

165TH aVE

BIG RAPIDS

20

2x2 block

BARRYTON

CHIPPEWA LAKE

18 MILE RD

135TH aVE

RD

26

4x4 block

20 MILE RD

21

18 MILE RD

17 MILE

8x8 block

Chippewa Lake

66

50TH aVE

25

22

MONROE RD

60

61 65

58 59

64

56 57 55

BLANCHARD

JEffERSON RD

1 MILE RD

66 67

22 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

COSTaBELLa aVE (COUNTY LINE RD)

110TH aVE

160TH aVE

HOOVER RD

PARIS

CORNER

10TH aVE

ES

10TH aVE

ON

20TH aVE

ST

80TH aVE

24 23 MILE RD

230TH aVE

A beautiful,selfguided tour, these impressive and large-scale wooden quilt blocks will keep you seeking more!

(Edmore) (Six Lakes)

MECOSTA COUNTY QUILT TRAIL ~ BLANCHARD ~ 1 239 Main St., Blanchard - 4x4 block, Ohio Star at Best Friend's Antiques, chosen for bold colors 2 6830 W. County Line, Blanchard -two 4x4 blocks, Designed for love of the fanning area 3 2511 Monroe Rd., Blanchard*- two blocks to see here, an 8x8 block, Sunflowers and a 4x4 block, Wanda's Fancy; both chosen for their beauty 4 3015 Jackson Rd., Blanchard- 4x4 block, Replica of Millbrook's Old Mill designed by our committee artist 5 1102 30th Ave., Blanchard - 4x4 block, Tractor designee for host's farm and tractor experience 6 4347 5 Mile Rd., Blanchard- 8x8 block, LeMoyne Star, host chose this design to honor his late sister's fabric quilt block she had started 7 6235 5 Mile Rd., Blanchard- 4x4 block, Star of Bethlehem, host chose this for her love of the holiday season and her faith 8 3681 Costabella, Blanchard - 4x4, entitled Quasar, to be donated to Homeworks

by RAHS for all their help 9 2535 30th Ave., Blanchard - 4x4, Both sides painted, restaurant motif ~ REMUS ~ 10 324 S. Sheridan, Remus- two 4x4 blocks, Americana and Cross Roads to honor our heritage and crossroad location, and placed on the Remus Area Museum 11 201 S. Sheridan, Remus- 2x2 block, Donated by RAHS to thank Wheatland Township for their community service 12 3530 9 Mile Rd., Remus- 4x4 block, Painted by the host and on display for years called Hole in the Bam Door 13 231 E. Wheatland Ave, Remus- 8x8 block, Carpenter's Wheel chosen to honor the carpenters in the family 14 350 E. Wheatland, Remus - 2x2 block, entitled Mosaic donated by the RAHS to the Mosaic School to thank them for allowing us work space to create our quilt blocks, designed by committee quilter 15 7872 10th Ave., Remus*- 4x4 block, Designed to represent the family crest, designed by committee qui iter

16 16440 1Oth Ave., Remus- 2x2 block, called Aunt Eliza's Star, old family quilt design on ageless chicken coop that's been on original Gingrich family farm 17 10261 30th Ave., Remus- two 4x4 blocks, self designed, painted and installed 18 5619 60th Ave., Remus- 8x8 block, Texas Star on this soon to be Centennial Farm 19 9105 25th Ave., Remus- 4x4 block, Carpenter's saw block donated to Remus Lumber by RAHS 20 7251 50th Ave., Remus- 2x2, Flying Geese block donated to WMO by RAHS 21 15020 30th Ave., Remus- 4x4 block, Designed by two local committee quitters to represent old Sheridan Township Hall ~ BARRYTON ~ 22 4478 Taft Rd., Barryton - 4x4 block, Amish Bear Paw design chosen by host because black bear invades her garage for bird seed 23 59 Northern Ave., Barryton- 2x2 block, Donated by RAHS to Country Kitchen Restaurant is a variation of the Sugar Bowl design 24 19730 30th Ave., Barryton Museum - 2x2 block, Donated by RAHS ~ EVART ~ 25 19901 Chippewa Dr., Chippewa Lake, Evart- 8X8 block, Absolutely beautiful Carpenter's Star, self designed, painted and installed 26 19027 21 Mile Rd., Evart - 4x4 block, Chrissy's Creation, a variation of Dresden Plate, designed by host's wife 27 14783 21 Mile Rd., Evart - 8x8 block, Micah's block ~ HERSEY ~ 28 23981 160th Ave., Hersey- 4x4 block, Custom designed for host's love of MSU Spartans ~ BIG RAPIDS ~ 29 20241 Ash Drive, Big Rapids- 8x8 block, Com & Beans block design chosen for agriculture area of Mecosta County 30 16726 230th Ave., Big Rapids- 8x8 block, Called Tumbling Blocks chosen because host's mother had a quilt of this pattern; design of grandmother's

31 13200 150th Ave., Big Rapids -two 8x8 blocks, one is Larakeet Flower and the other is Hunter's Star 32 14428 157th Ave., Big Rapids - 2x2 block, Donated by RAHS to Colfax Township STANWOOD 33 19864 8 Mile, Stanwood- 8x8 block, Log Cabin block chosen because host has one of her grandmother's qui Its in this design and color 34 7919 Elder Drive, Stanwood- 4x4 block, Called Pine Tree chosen by one of our local quitters ~ MORLEY ~ 35 171 00 One Mile Rd., Morley- 4x4 block, Called Dresden Plate, painted and purchased by the host in Kentucky and brought to Michigan 36 4489 11 Oth Ave., Morley*- 4x4 block, Entitled Tree of Life, chosen as a gift to host's husband 37 14109 5 Mile Rd., Morley- two 8x8 blocks, Striking on a white bam; one is an Amish Star design and the other is Snow Crystals ~ MECOSTA ~ 38 9551 Lake Drive, Mecosta- 4x4 block, Jack in the Pulpit design chosen by our committee qui Iter (located and visible only from the water at Lake Mecosta) 39 8261 Colgrove Rd., Mecosta - 2x2 block, Pink Sails in the Sunset, chosen because they live on Horsehead Lake 40 12954 80th Ave., Mecosta - 4X4 block, Located at the Senior Center representing our American flag in honor of the veterans that visit the center 41 201 W. Main St., Mecosta - 2x2 block, Donated by RAHS is on the VFW Hall 42 6635 70th Ave., Mecosta - two 8x8 blocks, One is an 8-point star and the other is a version of Grandmother's Flower Garden 43 134 W. Main St., Mecosta - 4x4 block, Drunkard's Path placed on the old Miller's Pub 44 587 S. Washington, Mecosta- Guiding Star to represent work with the youth 45 14574 80th Ave., Mecosta - 2X2 block, Ohio Star, paintec by committee quilter 46 4135 85th Ave., Mecosta - 8x8 block, Room at the cross *denotes gravel road location *block not yet complete at time of brochure printing

bigrapids.org

• 23

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A family-friendly event, Summer Fest gives kids the opportunity to play games and jump around on the various bounce houses.

Summer Fest gives visitors the chance to explore Mecosta County’s many local food options.

While locals enjoyed Summer Fest activities, they also had the chance to hear live music.

Summer Fest provides families with many fun activities, including rock climbing, playing games and more.

Among the many event festivities, attendees have the chance to watch a performance by Bangarang Circus.

Fun for all at the DBA Summer Fest While there are many fun summer activities and events to enjoy in Mecosta County, one that cannot be missed is the Big Rapids Downtown Business Association’s Summer Fest.

This annual event takes place along all four blocks of downtown Big Rapids, and offers guests the opportunity to explore local businesses, be entertained by street performers, play games, hear live music and much more.

“As one of the biggest events of the year, Summer Fest has something for everybody,” Rick Swinson, chairperson for the event, said.

“It’s a great way for the community to have a good time in a safe environment,” he said, adding the event also serves as a way for locals to soak up the final

days of summer.

"Summer Fest is a celebration of summer," Swinson said. "It's for people in the community to come together and have fun on the last weekend before school starts."

“A partnership between the Big Rapids DBA and Ferris State University, the event also works to connect FSU students with the community,” Swinson said.

Taking place right before school starts, Summer Fest helps acclimate students to their surroundings in a fun setting.

“Many students don’t realize we have such a lively, bustling downtown only about five blocks from campus,” he said. “Summer Fest gives them the opportunity to really see that.”

Every year, Ferris students also

have access to a shuttle during the event, giving them the perfect opportunity to see vibrant downtown Big Rapids and its many opportunities.

While the DBA works to make the event bigger and better every year, a new addition to Summer Fest last year was the downtown scavenger hunt.

According to Swinson, more than 100 individuals and 10 downtown businesses participated. Individuals who found all items during the scavenger hunt received gift baskets donated by the businesses.

Swinson said this allowed area residents to connect with their downtown businesses in ways they normally would not be able to.

This year’s Summer Fest activities currently are being planned.

However, Swinson said they likely will take place in August, on the first Saturday before local schools are back in session.

While the event planning won’t begin until February, Swinson said the DBA always has plenty of tricks up their sleeves to make the event even better than previous years.

However, Summer Fest attendees can count on this year’s festivities to include an aerial circus, local food options, a rock-climbing wall and bounce houses, among others.

“We always try to make Summer Fest better every year,” Swinson said. “Whatever we decide to do, we’ll make it special.” bigrapids.org

• 25

BAND OF LOCALS PUTS COMMUNITY AT THE FOREFRONT as more and more people could find what they needed without ever leaving their homes. Corporate commerce was drastically overshadowing small business.

Born from these events, the Band of Locals sought to bring businesses in the Mecosta County area together.

“The Band of Locals was founded right after 9/11 when our local economy hit the skids,” said Carlleen Rose, owner of the Old Pioneer Store & Emporium/Kilwin’s Chocolate and chairperson of the Band of Locals. “All of us were quite frightened. We realized that the only way we were going to remain the community we were was to support each other.”

Local Big Rapids businesses were resolved to also become more than a one-time thing.

They wanted to last.

Carlleen Rose of The Band of Locals hosts a weekly radio show on Sunny 97.3FM in Big Rapids.

The year, 2001, was traumatic for many in America. Fears for the future sent the economy into a nosedive after the calamity of 9/11. Conversely, those tragic events did

bring a new sense of unity and revealed a strength in our society. Plus, the means of commerce was rapidly changing from foot-traffic to a more web-based market

“We were decided not to be a six-month, “buy local” campaign,” Rose said. “We wanted to form an organization that created a culture of shopping locally and supporting local businesses.”

The Big Rapids Band of Locals was formed.

Area business owners and local franchise proprietors who live and operate in the Big Rapids area were invited to join.

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“If their sweat equity is local, they qualify,” Rose said.

“Someone like Walmart couldn’t join because they don’t have a house here.”

The Band of Locals approached business with only a $50 buy-in to business owners. In return for their one-time purchase was to offer a discount or an incentive benefit to customers who were members. They now have Blue Bands.

For example, at the Old Pioneer Store & Emporium/Kilwin’s Chocolate, members who show their Blue Bands get 15 percent off the entire store.

“I know that at the Gypsy Nickel Lounge, you can get 5 percent off your entire dinner,” Rose said. “If you go into Schuberg’s Bar and Grill, you get a free (non-alcoholic) beverage with purchase.”

For the low price of $10, anyone can become a member to gain

these benefits by just showing Band of Locals businesses their Blue Bands. And that fee? They only have to pay the $10 once.

“People need to look around and see what their community looks like now,” Rose said.

“Then they should envision what that same community would look like if people did all their businesses through a dot com. Because businesses, no matter how cool they are, they have to be able to pay their bills to function. If (local finesses) don’t have people coming in, they won’t exist.

“Now, you can do everything online,” Rose continued.

“People need to decide whether you want vibrant community that provides jobs, a tax base, and a uniqueness to our community or if you just want corporate-owned businesses and just do everything online.”

For more information about

The

Carpet Gallery

Band of Locals member Pat Currie helps hosts the group’s radio show on Sunny 97.3FM. the Band of Locals and their member businesses, stop in at either the Old Pioneer Store & Emporium/Kilwin’s Chocolate

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or at the Mecosta County Convention and Visitor Center, or call (231)796-2502. You can also visit bandoflocals.com.

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• 27

Beer and wine businesses opening in Mecosta County Mecosta County has not been immune to the explosion of new wineries and breweries opening up across Michigan in recent years.

Raven Brewing and BBQ is a brewery and restaurant in Big Rapids that opened in September 2015. Raven offers a laidback atmosphere, full of friendly staff and patrons, along with a range of Michigan-brewed beers.

Raven brewer Adam Mills can be found at the establishment making small batches of beer, three times a day, in order to keep the local beer flowing. Mills’ effort equals out to about 31 gallons a day, 10 gallons at a time.

“Historically, every town had a brewery,” Mills said.

He hopes that the return of local breweries will restore interest in local business in general. He doesn’t see the brewery boom going anywhere but up.

Raven also boasts live music on Saturdays, along with a second-floor level that has a pool table and pinball machines.

Raven isn’t the only option in Big Rapids for brewery fans.

Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery incorporates local produce into its scratch kitchen and microbrewery, which includes a number of unique beers.

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28 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Jamie Litrenta, right, and her brother Matt, are pictured at Raven Brewing and BBQ in Big Rapids.

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Patrons of Gwin Girls Winery and Tasting Room in Remus are pictured.

offers several wineries, including Gwin Girls Winery and Tasting Room in Remus, Heavenly Vineyards in Morley and Young’s Farm in Mecosta.

Gwin Girls had its grand opening in July 2018, with excited people from near and far forming a line out the door the weekend of Labor Day. Since that time, Gwin Girls had to “go from having one cash register to having three cash registers,” laughs winery employee Alexa Frost, noting the success of the business Gwin Girls features six wines, and in 2020, they hope to offer nine.

Pictured from left are Gwin Girls Winery and Tasting Room owner Kerri Waters, alongside Lisa Smith and Alexa Frost.

Gwin Girls offers wine slushies in the summer, along with frequent cider flavor changes. They have live music some Saturdays, and winter there is as

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• 29

lively as the summer.

This winter they put up a kind of yurt in the front of the business, where groups of friends can laugh and drink in a clear igloo of sorts.

Kerri Waters is the founder and owner of Gwin Girls. She said she “sees the boom of local wineries and breweries continuing,” which she is happy about. Her opinion is, the more the merrier.

“This always draws in more people. That way you can get a local wine tour going,” Waters said.

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30 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

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• 31

The Downtown Cruisin’ Car Show offers more than just cars, it offers a variety of activities ranging from raffles, awards and live entertainment. Featured is the Balsam Brothers as they performed to area residents during last year’s show.

Young minds are inspired as they check out some of the vintage automobiles during the Downtown Cruisin’ Car Show last year.

A dad spends his Father’s Day weekend with his son, as they wander around the car show, admiring the vehicles.

During the Downtown Cruisin’ Car Show, people spent time with their family and friends, as they toured downtown Big Rapids.

Back to the good ole’ days Cruisin’ Downtown Car Show brings vintage cars Car enthusiasts will love visiting Big Rapids during the summer as the River Valley Car Club facilitates the Cruisin’ Downtown Car Show.

“They were really key in making sure we knew what we were doing during the show,” Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau (MCCVB) Executive Director Connie Koepke said.

Hosted by MCCVB and the Pioneer in collaboration with the River Valley Car Club, the car show first began last year and took place during Father’s Day weekend.

“The CVB hosted a large car show a few years back and we thought it’d be nice to bring another one to downtown,” Koepke said. “I thought it was 32 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

a great event. A lot of folks came to us saying they hope we do this again next year.”

With their hopes answered, the car show will be presented again this year during the same weekend, hopefully with a few more items on the agenda.

“We want to expand on the show this coming year, and possibly include other vehicles, like a motorcycle show in conjunction with the cars,” Koepke said.

Those who participate in the car show have the chance to win several trophies, such as Mayor’s Choice, Best of Show, Best Bike and more.

While not everyone would consider themselves

a “car fanatic,” the car show is more than just vintage automobiles. According to Koepke, there always is a variety of food and vendors, making the event a must-visit shopping experience.

“You can get homemade gifts and fudge, do a little shopping and come back and experience our community in the future,” she added.

As well as finding gifts for friends and family, the fun-filled, family event may include a 50/50 drawing, food, awards and live entertainment.

“This show is a great opportunity for folks to have a good time and see some great vehicles and what an amazing downtown we have,” Koepke said. “We’re looking forward to this next year.”

Featured are a few friends as they discuss the differences between the cars at the show.

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• 33

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Sunday Worship at 11:00 am Sunday School at 10:00 am

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34 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

KRQB

Hours: M-F 8-5 Closed Sat/Sun

MUFFLER & BRAKE

Serving the Area Since 1970 ~ 49 Years

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Accepting New Patients Massage Therapists On Staff

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bigrapids.org

• 35

Trail bridge near Hemlock Park in Big Rapids, MI

Big plans for Mecosta County’s trails Mecosta County has beautiful rolling landscapes that truly highlight what Michigan is all about.

Beautiful trees, lakes, rivers and wildlife that can delight watercolor painters, photographers or just plain appreciators of nature. Hikers, joggers, bikers and joggers can find public spaces aplenty designed specifically for them. And in the winter, these trails turn into a wholly different kind of

enjoyment for sledders.

The Big Rapids Riverwalk, located in the center of Big Rapids, features 2.64 miles of pristine trail.

The pathway is completely accessible to all as it rolls gently along the majestic Muskegon River.

Starting at historic downtown Big Rapids, the Riverwalk winds its way to Northend Riverside Park. It is an award-winning, multifunctional

pathway giving access to fishing platforms, benches, bike racks and picnic areas on either side of the 250-foot wooden bridge that spans the Muskegon.

Where public trails already exist, there is always room for improvement. Running for 92 miles from Cadillac, through Big Rapids, all the way down to Fifth-Third Park in Grand Rapids is the

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231-250-0873 36 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

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Fred Meijer White Pine Trail. This trail is a fun and scenic route for bikers, joggers, hikers and snowmobilers. A majority of the trail is paved - the remaining length is covered with hard-pack gravel.

“The biggest issue we’re working on his getting those last 30 miles (in Mecosta and Montcalm counties) paved,” said Paul Griffith, vice chair of the Friends of the White Pine Trail. “Big Rapids-to-Cadillac is now completely paved, but from Big Rapids to Sand Lake, there is a big gap. This is where Kent and Montcalm counties connect. This 30-mile stretch is what we are working on.”

Last year, the White Pine Trail received a $3 million appropriation from the state to get that last stretch paved. “(The appropriation) is awesome, but we need about $6 million more to complete it,” Griffith said. “It’s more than just the paving. It’s doing repair to several culverts. There’s a couple in Mecosta County that need major work, and it’s not cheap.”

Culverts are tunnels or pipes that divert water away from the trail and more easily allow the trail to be maintained over the years.

The Friends of the White Pine Trail plans to go to the Fred Meijer Foundation (for whom the trail is named) for additional funding.

The foundation has over 300 miles from 12 trails named after Fred Meijer. The White Pine Trail is by far the longest.

In Canadian Lakes, Morton Township has been building two bike lanes that lead west from Mecosta to the White Pine Trail, and the other from the Mecosta County Senior Center on 80th Avenue to the trail. This is done in partnership with the Mecosta County Road Commission. While the county is repairing the roads that desperately need it, they will be adding a couple of feet of width to accommodate bicyclists marked with signs and stenciling. The goal is to connect these trails with the White Pine into one continuous 33-mile loop.

The biggest trail project in the works is the Dragon Trail. The Dragon that will cross Mecosta and Newaygo counties in a 46mile loop. When completed, estimated in 2021, it will be one of the longest of its kind in North America and a sure destination for outdoor enthusiasts nation-wide. The county will also work to include bike lanes that lead four miles west along 8 Mile from the White Pine Trail in Stanwood to The Dragon.

For more information on area trails or other destinations in Mecosta County, go to bigrapids.org/mecosta-county-trails.

Portion of The Dragon trail

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• 37

Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Office Manager Sandra Braden is pictured working in the bureau’s office, 127 S. State St.

Convention and Visitors Bureau building is home sweet home Since the opening in July 2017, the Mecosta County Welcome Center, home to the Mecosta County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce, has proven it worth – and continues to grow.

In the past year, the Welcome Center has seen additional changes and improvements to the already vibrant facility. After experiencing the Welcome Center’s original wooden signage being destroyed by vandals, the CVB took this as an opportunity to make an upgrade. The CVB purchased a large electronic sign that not only indicates the Welcome Center’s location but they now can promote local community events and happenings on the large digital marquee as well.

The two organizations have also collaborated on recent upgrades to the Welcome Center that include signage being placed on the building, which they did not previously have, upgraded landscaping, an underground sprinkler system and security cameras.

The Welcome Center offers guests and visitors numerous resources that include printed and electronic information, public 38 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

restroom, drinking fountain, guest seating area and personal assistance with questions relating to all things Mecosta County. The new building has allowed for the Convention and Visitors Bureau to host events it never was able to do before it moved, CVB Executive Director Connie Koepke said, like a recent American Red Cross blood drive held in conjunction with the chamber.

“We had the Red Cross truck in the parking lot and food set up. That was the intention of building this building – to work with (the chamber) on projects that can benefit our community. We would have never been able to do this before,” Koepke said.

Among the amenities in the new building is a boardroom, which allows the MCCVB to host meetings it wasn’t otherwise able to hold. Previously, Koepke said, if the tourism association sought to host a meeting with more than just a couple of people, it would have to seek space at a nearby hotel.

“Before the move, you were literally tripping over boxes of visitors guides when you were walking around, and there was no privacy. Now, we have parents of Ferris State

University students coming in and out of here every day at the start of the semester. It’s like night and day,” Koepke said.

The MCCVB’s new digs, located at 127 S. State St., are co-owned by the MCCVB and the chamber, which according to Koepke was unlike anything similar organizations in Michigan did when it first opened.

There are advantages to co-sharing a space with the chamber, like saving money on utilities and maintenance, as well as networking, Koepke said. There are consumer benefits as well, she added.

“Unless it’s your world, most people can’t tell the difference between a chamber and a Convention and Visitors Bureau,” Koepke said.

“If you’re new to the area and you come to our building, you probably don’t know which one of us you need to talk to. That in itself is a benefit – they can come here and if they’re looking for the business side of this county, we can point them toward the chamber.

If they’re looking for more information on tourism, they can come to the CVB. Bottom line, both of our goals are to promote the community.”

The new home of the Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau offers much more space than its old building did, according to officials.

Women’s Information Service, Inc. The Band of Locals is a community-minded program banding together to support our locally owned Mecosta, Osceola and Montcalm County businesses. With these Blue Bands, you the customer, will receive unlimited savings and discounts as there is no expiration date.

For More Information VISIT US AT: www.bandoflocals.com

Pick up your

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118 North Michigan Avenue • Big Rapids MI For More Information: 231.796.2502

Women’s Information Service, Inc. (WISE) provides crisis intervention and support services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence by empowering individuals, children and families along with our community partners to reclaim their sense of self.

Serving Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors of Mecosta, Osceola & Newaygo Counties 24-HOUR HOTLINE

Advocates are available 24/7 to speak with survivors of domestic or sexual violence.

Call 1-800-374-WISE or 231-796-6600. visit: wiseagainstviolence.org bigrapids.org

• 39

Places to Rest Hotels and motels in Mecosta County MECOSTA COUNTY — When spending time away from home, it might be nice to rest a night or two at a hotel or motel. From places near Ferris State University’s campus to a bit more out of town, Mecosta County has options to fit different lodging styles.

“We work with the West Michigan Tourist Association and Travel Michigan and other outside entities to boost Mecosta County,” said Connie Koepke, executive director of the Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We really try to promote the area.”

The CVB works with the following hotels and motels: Country Inn & Suites, 15344 Waldron Way, Big Rapids; (231)527-9000 or 1-800-456-4000; countryinnsuites.com Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center, 1005 Perry Street, Big Rapids; (231)796-4400 or 1-800-Holiday; hibigrapids.com Quality Inn & Suites, 1705 S. State St., Big Rapids; (231)592-5150 or 1-877-592-5150; QualityInn.com Super 8 Motel, 845 Water Tower Rd., Big Rapids; (231)796-1588 or 1-800-800-8000; super8.com The Inn at St. Ives, 9940 St. Ives Dr., Stanwood; (231)972-4837 or 1-800-972-4837; TullymoreGolf.com Hampton Inn and Suites, 15320 Waldron Way, Big Rapids; (231)527-7333; hamptoninn.com Morley Motel, 2097 Northland Dr., Morley; (231) 856-7820 Tullymore Golf Resort, 11969 Tullymore Drive, Stanwood MI; (231) 972-4837 or (800) 972-4837; TullymoreGolf.com.

204 N. Michigan, Suite 210 - Big Rapids, MI - Closed Sundays

40 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

bigrapids.org

• 41

ANNUAL EVENTS IN MECOSTA COUNTY SPRING

SUMMER

Annual Easter Egg Hunt (April) Big Rapids

Chippewa Lake Days (June) Chippewa Lake

W-A-M (Wish-a-Mile) Bike Tour (July) Big Rapids

Spring Antique Farm & Power Club Swap Meet (May) Big Rapids

Bandshell Free Concert Series (July-Aug) Big Rapids

Public Library Free Kids Activities (all month July) Big Rapids

Memorial Day Parade (May) Big Rapids

Big Rapids Freedom Fest at Roben Hood Airport (July) Big Rapids

FSU Community Band Free Concert Series (June-July) Big Rapids

Fourth of July Parade Downtown Big Rapids (July) Big Rapids

Barryton Lilac Festival (June) Barryton

Remus Heritage Days (July) Remus

Music on the River Free Concert Series (June-Aug) Mecosta

Mecosta County Free Fair (July) Big Rapids

Pocket Park Free Concert Series (June-Aug) Big Rapids

Mecosta Days (July) Mecosta Blues, Brews & BBQ (June) Big Rapids

Summer Antique Farm & Power Club Show (July) Big Rapids

Morley Celebration on the Pond (Aug) Morley Barryton Homecoming Days (Aug) Barryton Downtown Summer Fest (Aug) Big Rapids

For More Information about our community or upcoming and annual events, visit our website: www.BigRapids.org

FALL

WINTER

Ferris Founders Days (Labor Day Weekend) Big Rapids

Antique Farm & Power Club Swap Meet (Sept) Big Rapids

Annual Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show (Sept) Big Rapids

Four Green Fields Corn Maze (Sept,Oct) Mecosta

Wheatland Music Festival (Sept) Big Rapids

Tuba Bach Concert Series (Sept, Oct) Big Rapids

Big Rapids Relay for Life (Sept) Big Rapids

Downtown Fall Fest (Oct) Big Rapids

Germanfest (Sept) Big Rapids 42 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

Festival of Trees (Nov) Big Rapids Veterans Day Parade/ Celebration (Nov) Big Rapids Festival of Lights Parade/ Celebration (Nov) Big Rapids Morley Stanwood Holiday Bazaar (Nov) Morley Santa Visits (Dec) Big Rapids

Home For The Holidays (Dec) Big Rapids Taste of Mecosta w/local restaurants (Feb) Big Rapids Festival of the Arts (all month Feb) Big Rapids

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• 43

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44 • Mecosta County Visitors Guide

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