Thumb Resorter - May 2020

TRAVEL INFORMATION • SHOPPING • SCHEDULES • FESTIVALS • EVENTS • WEATHER • FAMILY FUN • AND MORE

May 22, 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE:

PAGE

Letter from the editor ................................. 2 Upper Thumb leisure options Silver Bullet Speedway ready to start engines ............................................3 Sebewaing officer keeps going Goldsmith Michael J. led by destiny ...........6 A Pirate’s life for Harbor Beach teacher, coach ..............................................7 Maple syrup business certified organic ......................................... 13

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Coronavirus brings temporary new spin to Resorter for 2020 Welcome to our May Thumb Resorter.

Many of you may be getting this publication for the first time today, but for others you are likely quite familiar with what the Resorter has to offer.

Each year throughout the summer events season, we publish Thumb Resorter monthly to tell you about what’s going on and what’s coming up in the Thumb.

But things are a little different this year.

With the coronavirus pandemic, many of the events that we love have either been canceled or likely will be canceled in the near future. It’s left a lot of uncertainty about what events there will be in the Thumb this year, and it made putting together a Eric Young publication that focuses on local events a little bit of a challenge this year.

We originally planned to run Resorter as we always do, but instead of previewing the events this year, we figured we would write about the events being canceled and how disappointed people were that they wouldn’t occur this year. However, after starting to put the May edition together, we realized it was pretty depressing. We’ve been covering cancellations in the Tribune, and we want Thumb Resorter to be something people want to pick up and read. No one wants to read a publication with nothing but cancellations.

So we decided to change it up this year.

For the time being, we’re going to focus more on the area businesses, people and places in the Thumb. We want to show you what you can do, even if events are canceled, where you can visit and who you can meet.

We’ll still cover events as well, especially as restrictions are hopefully lifted and some later events this summer possibly still occur. But we’ll also focus on some of the

While Caseville’s Ribstock has been canceled for 2020 due to the coronavirus, local residents hope this year’s Cheeseburger Festival will be held as scheduled. More info will come on that event in the coming months.

(Tribune File Photo)

other positive things happening in our community. In this issue, you’ll find a number of such stories.

On the event front, Silver Bullet Speedway in Owendale is anxiously awaiting the lifting of restrictions so it can hold the races that so many enjoy during the summer. The track owners are optimistic that there will be a season this year, and you can read about it inside. We also have a story about a Sebewaing police officer, who was sidelined from his job because of immune deficiencies resulting from a battle with cancer, but who has donned his face mask and returned to work, despite the risks.

You’ll learn about a local bed and breakfast that has made as many friends as customers over the years, and you can find out

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what the plans are for local farmers markets this summer.

And there’s a whole lot more. If you want to keep up on the cancellations, pick up a copy of the Huron Daily Tribune — we’ll cover them when they’re announced — or visit us online at www.michigansthumb. com.

And when we have some more events to preview locally, you’ll find all the information right here in Thumb Resorter. But for now, take some time to read about some of the people and places in and around Huron County that make it great, whether there is a pandemic or not.

Eric Young is the editor of the Huron Daily Tribune. He can be reached at eric. young@hearstnp.com.

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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Upper Thumb still brimming with options for leisure, activity SCOTT NUNN scott.nunn@hearstnp.com One thing is for certain in the Upper Thumb, the month of May usually invokes a changing of the tides as the shutters fly open on seasonal businesses ready yet again to welcome guests.

However, this year the communities in the Thumb were thrown the same curveball as the rest of the state, and now everyone has been left in the lurch.

Farmers markets have been delayed in opening, as has the public pool in Cass City and the races at Silver Bullet Speedway. Meanwhile, a slew of longstanding annual events have been outright canceled for

2020, including the Michigan Sugar Festival, Lady Slipper Festival, Harbor Beach Truck Show and both Huron and Tuscola County fairs.

That doesn’t mean visitors need to turn their cars around once the restrictions are lifted.

The Upper Thumb is a wonderful place to visit regardless of the reason, and frankly after being trapped at home for more than six weeks, a little fun is probably just what the doctor ordered.

A day or night a trip out to Port Crescent State Park is always a delight. Catch a clear night sky and visitors have the opportunity to see the worlds beyond our own from the Upper Thumb’s only dark sky preserve. By day, the park boasts a

2.3-mile walking trail along a fraction of Huron County’s 90-plus mile shoreline.

Another option is always Sleeper State Park, which was named after Michigan Gov. Albert Sleeper, a resident of Huron County who signed into law the statute that established the state park system. Sleeper State Park features more than 720 acres of forests, wetlands, sandy beaches and dunes. Located only a few miles from Caseville, visitors to Sleeper State Park have the opportunity to not only watch beautiful sunrises, but also captivating sunsets.

If you are feeling more adventurous, pick up a kayak or canoe and take a trip out on the lake, launch from Grindstone City after partak-

ing in a famous ice cream cone from the Grindstone General Store and paddle along the rock formations, past Turnip Rock and over to Port Austin.

While Huron County Parks will remain closed through June 22, it doesn’t mean that our towns are.

Restaurants are gearing up for service with many offering curbside pickup, as are our unique shops and businesses.

Everyone has been cooped up far too long and as orders are lifted and we are able to spread our wings, be mindful and supportive of the businesses, groups and organizations that stepped up to support the Upper Thumb as it was needed the most.

The owners of Silver Bullet Speedway in Owendale are hoping to get racers back on the track soon. (Huron Daily Tribune, File)

Silver Bullet Speedway ready to start its engines

BY MARK BIRDSALL mark.birdsall@hearstnp.com

OWENDALE — Race fans are at the starting line, revving their engines as they anxiously await the return of their favorite sport. Unfortunately, drivers are sidelined as everyone waits for restrictions on large gatherings to be lifted.

The owners of Silver Bullet Speedway in Owendale are no exception, but they’ve got a lot of great things planned for race fans in 2020, and they hope to get fans in the bleachers as soon as possible. Silver Bullet co-owner Nick Hoonhout said they will revise their schedule as soon as restrictions are lifted, hopefully keeping big events such as Kid’s Night on the calendar.

Silver Bullet Speedway is the longest continually operating dirt track in Michigan.

For nearly 70 years, race fans in the Thumb have been flocking to the track in Owendale to fulfill their need for speed. During the speedway’s long history, Indianapolis 500 winners A.J. Foyt and Parnelli Jones both competed against drivers from the Thumb.

On most nights, six different types of cars hit the track: IMCA modifieds, pro late models, bullet stocks, street stocks, four- and six-cylinder “road warriors” and kids’ cart class “mini wedges.” Silver Bullet also has a mud bog track with events held once a month, and the speedway also hosts sprint cars, demolition derbies and spectator drag races throughout the

Silver Bullet Speedway in Owendale has been forced to postpone the start of its season due to the coronavirus pandemic. (Nick Hoonhout/Submitted Photo) season. Hoonhout said Silver Bullet offers family friendly entertainment with many kid-oriented events offered through their Bullet Buddies

Kids Club.

Schedule highlights include: • Power Wheels Demo Derby

• Great Lakes Sprint Showdowns • Hall of Fame Night • Autograph Night • Fireworks Night • Kid’s Night and Bike Races • Shopping Cart Races • Girls Night Out • Old Timers Race • Season Championship Ticket prices for regular nights are $15 for adults, $10 for kids 7 to 14, and kids 6 and younger are free. Silver Bullet offers a family pack of two adult tickets and two kids tickets for $45, as well as a senior discount. Pit passes are $30, with kids 5 and under admitted free. Races get underway at 7:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.silverbulletspeedway.com or follow Silver Bullet’s Facebook page.

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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People gathered to buy and sell produce, meat and art products at the 2019 Port Austin Farmer’s Market. This year will look different with social distancing guidelines in place. (Tribune File Photo)

Uncertainty looms over Huron County farmers markets Some will go on, while others remain up in the air

have two at a time,” Irvine said.

Instead, she looks ahead to next year’s farmers market.

Find additional information on the Ubly Community Club Facebook page.

SARA EISINGER sara.eisinger@hearstnp.com HURON COUNTY — Agriculture and community involvement make the tip of the Thumb everything it is. Each year residents and visitors look forward to locally harvested fresh fruits and vegetables sold at nearby farmers markets.

Due to statewide executive orders and health concerns linked to COVID-19, things have changed this year.

People will more than likely be able to enjoy fresh produce and baked goods at some markets, but might not be able to to shop around for handmade crafts or other items deemed nonessential

by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Port Austin Farmers Market The show will go on in Port Austin, with its market set to open on Memorial Day weekend Saturday, May 23. It will extend through mid-October, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market will take place in downtown Port Austin at the intersection of State Street and Lake Street.

Board member Erica Bruce said only essential items will be sold. Vendors selling food, plants and personal hygiene products will be on site.

People are expected to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to help stay safe.

Customers must pay by credit card or exact cash, as no change will be given.

Face masks are highly rec-

(Tribune File Photo) ommended, and everyone is asked to follow social distancing guidelines. Hand sanitizing stations will be set up throughout the market.

To learn of any updates, visit the Port Austin Farmers Market Facebook Page.

Harbor Beach Farmers Market Harbor Beach originally planned on hosting its annual farmers market every Thursday, May 24 to Oct. 11, from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This date has been pushed back to July.

Kelly Jo Osentoski oversees community promotions and confirmed the chamber’s current plans to host a market every Friday, starting July 3, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Manager of the farmers market Barb Kozlowski sent an email to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office, asking for clarification on what could be sold. The AG’s response was food only.

“We will have no problem running it if we get enough

(food) vendors,” Kozlowski said.

The market will take place on the lawn of the Murphy Museum.

If interested in becoming a vendor, email Kozlowski at tupperbarb1@ gmail.com.

It would take place at the farmers market building in downtown Pigeon, located between Village Hall and the history museum.

For more information about the Pigeon Farmers Market, visit the farmers market page on the Pigeon Chamber of Commerce’s website.

The show will go on in Port Austin, with its market set to open Memorial Day weekend Saturday, May 23. It will extend through midOctober, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pigeon Farmers Market Details surrounding the Pigeon Farmers Market remain vague. It was scheduled to take place every Friday, May through October from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This is no longer the case. If it does take place, it will not begin until June.

“We will know at end of May,” Pigeon Historical Society member Duane Wurst said. “(We) want to start in June if we can.”

Ubly Farmers Market Ubly has opted out of putting on a farmers market this year. Community club member Bonnie Irvine said the group thought about selling essential items. However, the market only has four or five committed food vendors present at varying times.

“If I were lucky, I would

Caseville Farmers Market Michelle Louwers from the Caseville Chamber of Commerce said they are waiting to see what new government rules and regulations will be before etching anything into stone.

“It will not be in May,” Louwers said. “Possibly June, depending on what they say.”

She said they are taking things day-by-day and should know more next week. If the market is held this year, it will take place at the memorial city park.

The chamber of commerce may be reached at email@ casevillechamber.com or by phone at 989-856-3818 Sebewaing Farmers Market Ray Parsons runs the farmers market in Sebewaing and hopes for a late June kickoff. However, he could not be certain and should know more next month.

“I am thinking about starting June 28,” Parsons said.

To learn more, call Ray Parsons at 989-977-0052 or check out the Sebewaing Farmers Market Facebook Page.

The Farmers Market Association has asked that farmers market managers consult their local health departments and the state of Michigan for information related to COVID-19. The Huron County Health Department can be reached at 989-2699721.

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Sebewaing officer won’t let compromised immune system keep him on sidelines during pandemic MARY DRIER For the Tribune SEBEWAING — Going above and beyond is not unusual for Steve Repkie of Sebewaing. He works as a police officer, and has worked as an EMT, a firefighter and a board of education member.

That was until he met a foe that put him in the fight of his life — stage 4 throat cancer a few years ago.

With more than three dozen doses of radiation as well as chemotherapy, he battled his way back and returned to work.

While he was battling cancer, he drew strength from his favorite character, Captain America. He often used that superhero’s image to give him strength to keep going, and when he provided updates on his progress, they would often include a Captain America image.

He has been in remission for about two years.

It took awhile, but he was finally able to return to work full time until the coronavirus pandemic put him on the sidelines because of his compromised immune system.

“I got benched,” Repkie said. “They didn’t want me out there with my health history.”

He worked full-time as a law enforcement officer for the Caro Police Department, as well as part-time for the Sebewaing Police Department and the Unionville Police Department.

However, his forced time off didn’t last long.

“I had been benched, but I couldn’t continue to watch from the sidelines,” he said. “I’m not wired for that. I requested to be put back on the street. I could not, in good conscience, watch my fellow officers and other essential workers go out there every day and face this. I know I’m at risk because of the cancer. I also know that I worked my butt off to get

While on duty as a police officer in the three law enforcement departments for which he works, Steve Repkie wears a face mask with a Captian America logo. Because of a compromised immune system from cancer, Steve Repkie was sidelined as a police officer, but not for long. He could not let fellow officers work alone during such dangerous time. (Courtesy Photos)

back to being a police officer after stage 4 cancer.

“I did it to prove to myself that I could still do the job, not sit on the bench and watch others do the job I love.”

In returning to work, he once again drew on the motto, “Strength and Honor,” as well as a face mask to protect him made by fellow cancer survivor Katie Wood Skelton. The face mask has the Captain American logo on it.

Repkie pointed to his wife, Carolyn, who is also on the frontlines fighting the pandemic.

“My wife is a registered nurse,” he said. “She goes in to the hospital each day. Because that is what she does.”

Although Repkie has been a police officer for 36 years, it was not his first career choice. He originally

wanted to be an architect because he loved to draw. When he started taking classes, he realized being architect is much more than just drawing cool buildings.

“It had a lot of math involved and I was never very good at math. The course curriculum had math classes with titles I could barely pronounce,” Repkie said noting he had to do a career goal reset.

“I checked the college courses and the one with the least amount of math was criminal justice/law enforcement,” he said.

After graduation, he went west where he worked in a good sized municipal police department for a number of years and then to a small sheriff’s department.

“There, I was undersheriff for a couple of years,” he said. “I worked

traffic crash investigation, was in SWAT (special weapons and tactics), K-9 and field training officer as well as some other areas. The best was K-9. Out west I also trained as a EMT and worked with two county ambulance services.”

He also spent 20 years on a school board in Tuscola County and served as a firefighter on two fire departments as well.

Repkie is also an active member in Skelton’s Facebook page “Virus Spirit 2020,” which has about 1,800 members. He is a guest reading stories on the Facebook page to children to help keep them entertained during isolation.

Repkie has two children, four step children and a 6-year old grandson.

From hockey to jewelry, destiny led Michael J. to where he is today

BY SARA EISINGER sara.eisinger@hearstnp.com BAD AXE — Many know Michael J. Affholter as the town’s master goldsmith, but there is so much more to know about the man who holds together a successful business and loving household.

“God’s hand is on our lives,” Affholter said.

It all started in back in 1981, when a teenage boy followed his father’s footsteps — those of semi-pro New York Ranger Roger Affholter.

“I started playing (hockey) when I was two,” Affholter said. “My dad was a pro. He played with guys like Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay. They were very influential in our lives. He played until he was 64.”

Like father, like son — Affholter played junior hockey for the Ontario Hockey League. Then, he was picked

up by the Sioux City Musketeers. There was one minor set-back.

“The league couldn’t pay us, due to amateur athlete status in those days,” Affholter said. “We got room and board and a stipend for food.”

The young aspiring hockey player was left to do the only thing he could do — find a job. This was no big deal for the 19-year-old man, who had been working delivering papers or bussing tables from an early age. The only question was where? That is when it dawned on him.

“I had a cousin who was the same age and worked at a jewelry store,” Affholter said.

He took the 10-hour trip to Iowa, where he interviewed for a position with a jeweler.

The interview was at a store comparable to J.B. Robinson. Affholter felt a tad out of place in his overalls, sitting across from a businessman

Michael J. Affholter (Courtesy photo) dressed in only the nicest of three-piece suits.

“What were you thinking, Michael?” Asked the voice of his mother.

“He asked if I had ever been convicted of crime and I said no,” Affholter said. “He asked if I were mechanically inclined and I said yeah.”

Thanks to all the positive male role-models in his life, Affholter had acquired skills in repair work.

“He brought me into workshop with a watch bench, where they fix batteries

in bands,” Affholter said.

“He asked if I could make it work and I said sure.”

The then-aspiring hockey player quickly began changing batteries, polishing jewelry and fixing broken accessories. He learned to look out for customers, because they did not always know when a prong went missing or if something was about to come loose.

“He showed me how to solder rings, sand and file,” Affholter said. “He showed me all these practices. I learned hands-on. If I ever messed something up, we have a master jeweler that could fix it.”

Importantly, he learned how to stop and not go too far.

“If you start having a problem, stop!” Affholter said. “I think about that today.”

One day, the experienced jeweler took his apprentice into the master jewelry shop

and taught him how to put a bottom on a ring. He also taught him that if he broke something, he had to buy it.

“You always have to be accountable to yourself and the customer,” Affholter said. “I have been doing it for 37 years. Truth be told the last 10 have been the most satisfying. Took me 20 years to really understand people and the business.”

Affholter did not go to school, he simply played hockey and continued learning this new trade. He worked in Hamtramck doing “piece work.” This meant he got paid for each job, helping him to learn the business.

“Then, I worked in Southfield for seven years and they taught me skills and repair,” he said. “I worked at night for free to learn. I would have customer jobs and the owner would help me fix them at See MICHAEL J., page 7

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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A Pirate’s life for him: Harbor Beach coach, teacher says community is something special MARK BIRDSALL mark.birdsall@hearstnp.com HARBOR BEACH — Despite being an Upper Peninsula native, Pirates coach Jim Tamlyn believes Harbor Beach is a truly special place that is ideal to raise a family.

Jim is the head coach of the Harbor Beach varsity girls basketball team, track and field and an elementary school teacher.

As a graduate of Northern Michigan University, he spent time student-teaching in his hometown of St. Ignace and went on to serve as a graduate assistant at Central Michigan. Jim and his wife, Tracy, moved to the Thumb about 11 years ago after he accepted his job at Harbor Beach.

His passion is coaching, but after getting a taste of college-level coaching life, he decided that was not the path he wanted to follow.

Jim and Tracy, who is the high school administrative assistant at Harbor Beach, now have two children, an 11-old-son and 9-year-old daughter.

Over the past decade, he’s built a career as an educator and coach and has impacted many lives.

As proud as he is of his players’ accomplishments on the court or on the field, he takes even more pride in what they’ve achieved off the court.

The 2020 team finished second in the state in its division for academics.

As an educator, among the things he finds most rewarding is working with younger children, who “keep him young” and require high levels of energy.

“They not only demand it, they

MICHAEL J. Continued from page 6 night.”

Under a man named Norman Gornbein, Affholter learned to earn his own pay; It was an apprenticeship with benefits.

“I had to promote sell and fix,” Affholter said.

In doing so, he worked across the bench from a De Beers award winner.

“He would show me how to put things together,” Affholter said. “He was a very smart man. There are probably 10 guys that could do what he could. I learned a lot. Then, went on my own.”

One day, Gornbein approached Affholter with $11,000 cash, shook his hand and sent him on his way.

“He said start a business,” Affholter said. “You are ready.”

Gornbein continued to work with Affholter for many years, helping him sell and fix things that seemed unfixable. He became a subcontractor and the two kept a good relationship for many years.

While playing hockey and perfecting his trade, Affholter married Bad Axe native Vicky (Schmitt) Affholter.

“When we came up here, I had a whole different feeling of life,” he said.

That was when the decision had been made. Affholter was running his own small jewelry repair shop at the time, as a subcontractor for Herman Hiss & Company.

Harbor Beach teacher and coach Jim Tamlyn takes pride in the accomplishments of his students and players both on and off the court. (Tribune File Photo) expect it,” Tamlyn said.

He also takes a great deal of satisfaction in the success his students achieve after they have graduated, proudly relating the story of how he recently sat in on a video conference during which one of his former students recently defended her doctoral dissertation in chemistry.

“It’s great what we’ve accomplished on the court, but what we’ve accomplished away from the court … you just don’t forget that stuff,” he said.

Tamlyn said the Thumb reminds him of the Upper Peninsula in many ways, but Harbor Beach is a truly special place. It’s a great place to

raise a family, and in many ways, the school is the heart of community.

There’s a strong work ethic, and the people of Harbor Beach support their school.

“It’s a community that you want to be a part of,” he said. “I wouldn’t trade it.”

“My cousin worked for me and I asked if she were ready to move?”

Affholter said. “I laid out $20,000 on the table and said I sold the store and we are going up north.”

The couple moved into his wife’s family’s homestead farm, the place where all the parties and special holiday events took place.

“This is where everyone came and they still do today,” Affhiolter said.

He talked about having big Christmas gatherings, with multiple kids running around.

“It didn’t take me long to make friends and make me a part of the community. We took part in all the events and became part of the Bad Axe Free Methodist Church. My wife’s family is all here, so we blended easily. And, I learned there are certain things in the county you just have to understand.”

He said it was refreshing to see a such strong community spirit and referenced Unionville-Sebewaing’s varsity team going to finals.

“All these people came together,” Affholter said. “In the city that would never happen. I believe moving here added 10 more years to my life.”

He rented business property from Jean Talaski, who is a customer today.

“I needed a building to work for and was still working for Herman Hiss,” Affholter said. “I was speaking with Jean. She met me downtown and there was this little hallway that was the size of a medium bedroom.”

She charged Affholter $250 and

handed him the keys without so much as a deposit — only faith in his business.

The two became good friends and even found they share a birthday of June 26. Who is younger or older may be up for debate.

Today, Affholter owns and operates Michael J’s Design Studio & Goldsmith Shop. They sell to customers throughout the nation and have become the official jeweler of the American Power Boat Association.

“We race boats,” he said. “That’s my hobby. That’s what makes me go to work.”

Like father, like son, Affholter followed in his dad’s footsteps and started racing at the age of 14. His whole family has joined the sport, including son William and daughter Marissa.

Both of them have had some involvement in the family business.

His daughter still works for her father today, doing the books, selling and marketing. His wife can even be found helping out from time to time.

“She has helped out throughout the years, behind the scenes,” Affholter said. “She is my energy when I don’t want to work. It is difficult at times.”

At Michael J’s, the focus is on making personalized pieces. He recycles metal and gemstones, whole doing total repair work. The result is customized jewelry that nobody else has.

For example, Affholter likes to turn heirlooms into unique art that resembles the love between a mother and her daughter, or a grandfather and his grandson. Sometimes, the jewelry

left behind is just too much to wear or old and could be made into the perfect piece.

Affholter sat next to his father, who now stays in the family’s full house after losing his wife two short weeks ago. He went on to explain that she lived with them for four days, before going to the hospital and passing away peacefully. The Affholters found comfort in knowing she was with family, at a time when many cannot be.

Keeping grandpa company in his son and daughter-in-law’s home are his granddaughter, great-granddaughter and grandson.

“We’ve got a full house,” Affholter said. “I couldn’t have scripted the way that we are together. We were able to spend time with mom and my kids are home. We had time together.

Normally, the kids would’ve been in school and I would’ve been at the store.”

The sequence of events that transpired out of “Stay Home, Stay Safe” have changed the entrepreneur’s whole mindset.

“Now, my belief is to limit myself to time,” Affholter said. “Not the six-day grind. This is my time to semiretired, but I am not in any hurry to retire. I went into the shop the other day to work. I love the creation part.”

Affholter does not question how he and his family have been able to move forward and live happy lives in a loving community.

“To look back, you know God’s hand was on our lives,” Affholter said.

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

The Lake Street Manor Bed and Breakfast in Port Austin has been in operation since 1986. Co-owner Carolyn Waller said they have many guests come back year after year.

(Robert Creenan/Huron Daily Tribune)

Old-fashioned hospitality alive and well Lake Street Manor in Port Austin, open since 1986, brings many repeat guests ROBERT CREENAN robert.creenan@hearst.com PORT AUSTIN — Port Austin has plenty of hotels, motels, and summer homes people come to in order to get away during the warm weather, however it can be

said few can match the intimate hospitality offered at a bed and breakfast.

Carolyn Waller, along with her husband Jack, has operated the five-room Lake Street Manor Bed and Breakfast since 1986, making friends with their guests and

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keeping them coming back for more hospitality.

Waller’s family is originally from Detroit, but she was born in Florida. Her relatives bought a home in Port Austin in 1978, which is when she visited the Thumb for the first time. She would later come across the building that would house the bed and breakfast.

“I just fell in love with the house,” Waller said.

The building at 8569 Lake Street in Port Austin was originally built as the home of a lumber baron in the late 1800s.

Over its history, the Manor has served as a summer home, a guest house, and a residence until it opened as the Lake Street Manor of today.

There used to be an old-time photo studio and antique shop in the building as well, both of which Waller

closed in order to make more room for more guest space.

The Manor plans on welcoming its first guests on Memorial Day weekend this year. The operating season usually lasts from April to after Christmas, with July and August being the busiest months. Last season, rooms were rented out for wind turbine workers until February.

When the Manor is closed for the season, Waller visits her kids down in Florida for the winter.

This year will be the first year that Lake Street Manor will be taking reservations only instead of walk-ins. With the coronavirus pandemic still happening across Michigan, Waller said this year will be particularly hard to be open.

“A lot of people come here with their families,” Waller said.

“It’s nice because they are

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a family, they do not have to worry about the distance.”

Most of the business that Waller gets comes from repeat guests who are visiting family in the area, which Waller notes they have become good friends with.

“A couple coming here for the Fourth of July have been coming here for 10 years,” Waller said.

“They’re friends, even though they pay us.”

Each morning, a different breakfast is served to guests between 8 and 10 a.m.

Amenities offered to guests include a hot tub, televisions with DVD players in every guest room, bicycles, board games, and cards. The manor also advertises the happenings of Port Austin to guests as well, like the farmers market and kayaking.

Guests usually make either a two- to three-night stay at the Manor or stay for a whole week.

Waller noted that while their guests go around town in Port Austin, they also love spending time hanging out in the backyard as well.

“It comes up in reviews,” Waller said, noting the number of positive Google reviews the bed and breakfast has received. “They like watching birds and sitting outside at night.”

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

The Lake Street Manor Bed and Breakfast in Port Austin has been in operation since 1986. (Robert Creenan/Huron Daily Tribune)

Ace Hardware Of Bad Axe Inc

• More photos, Page 10

Store Hours: Mon-Fri 8-8, Sat 8-5:30, Sun Closed

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N Van Dyke Rd

735 N Van Dyke Rd Bad Axe, MI 484139188 (989) 269-9131 www.acehardware.com

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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WWW.OSENTOSKI-UPPERTHUMB.COM SELL OR BUY YOUR HOME THREE LOCATIONS AND 20 AGENTS TO SELL YOUR HOME OR ASSIST IN BUYING YOUR NEW HOME.

FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

8736 Lake St. Port Austin 989-738-5251

6906 Main St. Caseville 989-856-3887

11

1006 N. Van Dyke Bad Axe 989-269-6231

Casey Bruce Broker/Owner and Marilyn Bruce Broker/Owner

Jennifer Rice 989-550-9399, Don McKimmy 989-269-8659, John Magusin 989-225-6762, Bill LaFave 989-550-2381, Tom Viers 989-550-5489, Kay Viers 989-550-4489, Diane Ellicott 989-712-0050, Dale Ignash 989-550-0911, Jenny Emming 989-550-5165, Todd Talaski 989-550-1043, Bob Bensinger 989-315-1016, Jonathon Mauk 989-598-4809, Amanda Neinaltowski 989-450-1739, Brian Wahl 989-553-1144, Troy Tolbert 989-798-0307, Aimee Krull 989-768-0025, Al Kuhn 989-550-2991, Debbie Osentoski 989-551-2754

$173,500

98 Learman Rd. Bad Axe

3 BR, 1.5 BA Tri-level Call Diane Ellicott 989-712-0050. #040-20-0008

$39,999

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$225,000

990 S. Ubly Rd. Bad Axe

2 BR, 1 BA 17 acres. Call Todd Talaski 989-430-7542. # 040-20-0011

$139,900

4379 Port Austin Rd. Caseville

$89,500

207 W. Irwin St. Bad Axe 2 BR, 1 BA. Call Casey Bruce 989-430-7542.

$164,500

$179,500

$275,000

3 BR, 2 BA, Lake Access. Call Casey Bruce 989-430-7542.

$199,000

$242,500

$359,000

3 BR, 1 BA, boat slip, Lakefront.

Call Marilyn Bruce 989-430-5374

3 BR, Large shed - Call Diane Ellicot 989-712-0050. #040-20-0016

272 E. Spring St. Port Austin

3 BR, 2 BA, Lake Access. Call Jennifer Rice 989-550-9399. #040-20-0013

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785 N. Bay Port Rd. Bay Port

5627 Port Austin Rd. Caseville

2 BR, 1 BA. Call Bill LaFave.

989-550-2381. #039-20-0004

4724 Port Austin Rd. #4 Caseville 2 BR, 1 BA, Lakefront. Call John Magusin 989-225-6762. #039-20-0002

$67,900

7724 Port Austin Rd. Caseville

3 BR, 1 BA - Lakefront. Call Bill LaFave 989-550-2381. #039-19-0004

4 BR, 1 BA, Lake Access. Call Casey Bruce 989-430-7542.

3627 Bluff Rd. Port Austin (Grindstone)

2 BR, 1 BA log home - Lakefront. Call Jennifer Rice 989-550-9399. #040-20-0015

VACANT LAND

$59,900

11827 Sunnyside Dr. Sebewaing 3 BR, 2 BA, mobile. Canal Front. Call Marilyn Bruce 989-430-5374. #039-20-0001

$79,000

146 W. Main St. Sebewaing 3 BR, 1 BA, Call John Magusin 989-225-6762. #039-19-0009

$249,500 3.95 acres 114 ft. of Lakefront Port Austin

$249,900 Beadle St. Caseville

Lakefront Lot - 5 Acres Call Dale Ignash 989-550-0911

$49,900

City of Caseville

Riverfront Lot - Buildable - Call Dale Ignash 989-550-0911

$99,900

Lot #1 Carousel Lane Port Hope

Lakefront Lot - 2 acres, wooded, Call Diane Ellicott.

989-712-0050

SOLD!! We here at Osentoski Realty with offices in Bad Axe, Caseville and Port Austin will be available for appointments and will be able to assist you in all your real estate needs.

12

FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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Lemon Tree Marketplace and Keepsakes in Caseville are two of the towns many stores adapting to the new way of doing business. (Courtesy Photo)

Local businesses adapting to the new normal

Caseville stores find new ways to prepare for holiday weekend PAIGE WITHEY For the Tribune

MORE POWER TO YOU!

CASEVILLE — The coronavirus precautions have taken their toll on local business and that is especially true in tourism-dependent Caseville, which is now looking for new ways to bring in revenue as Memorial Day weekend arrives.

Lemon Tree Marketplace and Keepsakes in Caseville are two of the town’s many stores adapting to the new way of doing business. TJ Elenbaum, owner of Lemon Tree Marketplace, credited the community’s support for inspiring and encouraging local businesses to carry on.

“We are doing our best at adapting ourselves in as many different ways as we can to generate business,” TJ said. “We have had to re-invent the way we run our daily operations for sure. We are learning so much from studying how businesses around the state and the country are handling the same situation.”

“We are a unique business in that we are both an essential business and a retail business,” TJ added. “We have opened up our essential side, including coffee drinks,

pastries, grab-and-go sandwiches, and grocery items.

We are able to take phone-in orders, curbside pickup, and to-go ordering inside the store.”

Both Lemon Tree and Keepsakes are working hard to ensure their staff’s and customers’ safety by limiting the number of customers in the store at one time, adding plexiglass barriers at the register, and implementing a strict disinfecting regimen. TJ explained they will also expect customers and employees to wear a mask while in the store when possible.

“For our retail side, we have increased our presence on social media and have used it as a venue to sell our products,” TJ said. “We are happy to offer curbside pick-

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up for retail items as well as shipping, since some of our customers are not local to Caseville.”

“We believe that all of this, while challenging, will only add a new dimension to our business,” she added.

“We, along with many businesses in the area that rely on summer tourism, are doing what we can during this time.”

Nancy Chappel, owner of Keepsakes in Caseville, has taken similar steps to ensure they can do business as safe as possible. Along with curbside pickup, Keepsakes has created a web store shopping option for their customers.

“We are unsure how this will affect our business, we just have to wait and see,” Nancy said. “We can only hope for the best.”

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

13

Cass City maple syrup business USDA certified organic MARY DRIER For the Tribune UPPER THUMB — The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association recently notified MapleWorxz of Cass City that is has been certified as an Organic Maple Syrup producer.

“The lengthy certification process started in August of last year with a 44 page application and culminated with an intensive inspection of our maple operation by a certified organic inspector last March,” explained Thom Bardwell who is the patriarch of the family operated business.

It has been an educational journey, which underscored that the company is operating and producing maple syrup at a level that few are able to achieve — a level that meets all the best practices in processing maple sap into organic maple syrup.

“From tree to table, our maple syrup process assures our customers the best in organic quality and packaging,” Bardwell said.

Although maple syrup from the sap of maple trees is a natural product, there is more to that to become certified organic.

Organic products are grown naturally without the use of any products, such as pesticides, chemicals or other non-natural ingredients that have not been approved as organic.

“In other words, our maple syrup is produced using the highest standards to assure that there

batches or lots for process traceability should there be a problem with the bottles or syrup after the sale, and the operation is reviewed by an independent organic certified inspector.

In January, MapleWorxz was also awarded the top honor of “Best of Show” by the Michigan Maple Syrup Association.

Bardwell makes syrup the same way as when the business was started in 1949 by his grandfather, Frank Bardwell and his father Fred Bardwell.

This year his son, Aaron Bardwell, who is a Naturopathic Doctor, is the fourth generation to help carry on the business.

The Bardwells boil sap straight from the tree without removing any water with reverse osmosis, although doing that would cut down on the time to make syrup.

He feels that is what gives syrup the best flavor.

In an average year, each tap hole in a tree will proThom Bardwell, with his wife, Karla, as well as other family members operate MapleWorxz in rural Cass duce about 10 gallons of sap, City. Their maple syrup company recently earned the designation as a certified Organic Maple Syrup which will make about one producer. (Mary Drier/For the Tribune) quart of maple syrup. is no contamination by any Taps into a maple tree are Equipment is restricted Bardwell is the chair of non-organic ingredient or limited to a diameter of 16 to stainless steel and our the Tuscola County Board product,” Bardwell said. inches and above to assure maple process of Commis“Unlike conventional maple proper forest management is lead free,” sioners, and syrup, our organic syrup and no more than one tap he said, noting besides the goes through many unique per tree. those are only maple syrup processes.”

Fertilizers and other a few of the business, the Some of the steps in the non-organic substances perimeters that Bardwell famiprocess include: are not allowed to enhance have to be met. ly also operates Maple woodlots are tree growth or to be on “MapleWorxz a custom frame inspected and certified. They surrounding areas such as has a licensed business at have buffer areas to assure farmland that is not organic. kitchen by their residence no non-organic contamina“Only approved cleaners the Michigan at 3540 North tion from neighboring areas are used on the equipment.

Department Hurds Corner comes in.

We use white vinegar. of Agriculture Road, Caro. assuring cleanFor more liness and proinformation or cess control.” to order some Thom Bardwell Organic MapleWorxz MapleWorxz owner certification syrup go to / requires rigorous record mapleworxz.com or call keeping and the tracking of 989-550-7648.

“From tree to table, our maple syrup process assures our customers the best in organic quality and packaging.”

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Thom Bardwell’s MapleWorxz maple syrup is now USAD Certified Organic, which wasn’t an easy designation to get. (Courtesy Photo)

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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Michigan Sugar Fest The Michigan Sugar Fest in Sebewaing is always a major draw for the area every June. This year’s event was canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak, but will make a return next year. Here are some photos from the 2019 Sugar Fest. (Tribune File Photo)

Scenic Golf & Country Club Full Dinner Menu

• Customer Appreciation Day •

Prime Rib on Weekends. New Lunch Menu

Every 3rd Monday of each Month – FREE golf, cart & tee time is required

• Fish Fry • To Be Determined Serving Perch, Walleye, Cod, Shrimp, Pollack, includes salad bar.

• Weekend Membership Specials • Individual – $599/year or $99/month for 6 months Couple or Family – $899/year or $149/month for 6 months

• The 19th Hole Restaurant • Specials everyday!

• Golf Specials • Monday & Friday– 2 for 1 green fees, must purchase golf carts Tuesday-Thursday – 9 holes with cart $20 and 18 with cart $29 valid thru June 8th

“Youth On Course” Sponsor through GAM • Open to the Public • Golf Course & Restaurant • Weddings • Receptions • Class Reunions • Outings & Banquets Welcome • 2 HD TVs for all Sporting Events • Outside Patio

Scenic Golf & Country Club Call Golf Shop for tee times (989) 453-3350 www.scenicgcc.com

• More photos, Page 15

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

15

Essential business facing pandemic head on Local business owner prepares for changes beyond coronavirus PAIGE WITHEY For the Tribune KINDE — Charlotte Ignash, owner of the Kinde One Stop, has taken the pandemic in stride and works hard to provide high quality service while keeping her employees safe.

Since its opening in 2013, the Kinde location, an addition to her Caseville Clark gas station, has truly turned into an essential business in the community.

“People in Huron County know and trust each other, especially now you see people who are willing to help someone without hesitation,” Charlotte said. “People come in and buy things for their neighbors or friends in need.”

Due to the pandemic, Charlotte has had to cut hours and close My Sons Sub Shack, which was previously Chester’s Chicken, located in the Kinde gas station. Along with so many other community businesses, Charlotte is implementing changes that could possibly stay in place even after the precautions are lifted.

“With schools being closed and many people unable to go to work, the stay-at-home order has decreased store traffic,” Charlotte said. “For safety, aside from adding

The coronavirus pandemic has brought some changes to the Kinde One Stop, but owner Charlotte Ignash has taken them in stride. (Paige Withey/For the Tribune) plexiglass partitions, every employee is provided a mask to wear at their discretion.”

“Upon arrival to work, each employee needs to answer a questionnaire and take their temperature,” she added. “If there are any changes in their health, they need to report it to myself.”

Along with limiting the number of people in the store, disinfecting surfaces, and marking the floor to demonstrate social distancing, both Clark locations have had to deal with staffing changes due to the coronavirus precautions. Charlotte commended her employees for stepping up and rallying together amid the chaos.

“Hopefully as the stayat-home order is lifted and the economy opens back up people will be cautiously traveling,” Charlotte said. “Changes are likely to include wearing face masks, social distancing, canceled festivals, and limited group activities.”

“Summertime is very important to seasonal businesses of Huron County,” she added.

“With common sense, I’m hopeful that businesses will be able to salvage what they can from the coming months.”

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FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

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