Venture Northwest - Fall & Winter 2019

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VENTURE: FALL 2019

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INDEX

BENZIE

Honor Beulah Benzonia

Frankfort

Birding along Lake Michigan.................. 6 Betsie Valley Trail.................................... 8 Fall colors............................................ 10 Hunting................................................ 14 Halloween attractions........................... 16 A jerky destination............................... 18 Fat biking craze.................................... 20 Organic cider....................................... 22 Calendar of events............................... 24 Ice fishing............................................ 28 Ludington State Park snowshoeing....... 30 Fall fishing........................................... 32 Get in the holiday spirit........................ 34 Ring in the New Year............................ 36 A home for area artists......................... 38 Beer festivals....................................... 40 Service directory.................................. 42

Lake Ann

Elberta Arcadia Bear Lake

MANISTEE

Onekama

Kaleva

Manistee

Free Soil

MASON

Ludington

Scottville

STAFF Michelle Graves - Editor mgraves@pioneergroup.com Ken Grabowski - Associate editor kgrabowski@pioneergroup.com Scott Fraley - Writer Ashlyn Korienek - Writer, photographer Kyle Kotecki - Writer Colin Merry - Writer, photographer Robert Myers - Writer, photographer Dylan Savela - Writer, photographer

Michelle Bain - Designer Ariel Moreno - Designer Sandy Card - Media consultant scard@pioneergroup.com Paula Laws - Media consultant plaws@pioneergroup.com Kyle Ray - Inside sale representative kyle.ray@pioneergroup.com Ann Wilkosz - Media consultant awilkosz@pioneergroup.com

This publication is a production of the Pioneer Group/Hearst Newspapers Michigan

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Leaf peeping planning guide Millions of people each year look forward to the magnificent colors on display in autumn.

Fall offers irreplaceable views, whether you're atop a mountain ridge or thick in the folds of a forest. In addition, the crackle of leaves underfoot and the earthy smell of the soil tempts the senses even more.

Some advance planning can help make fall foliage trips that much more enjoyable and awe-inspiring.

Peak viewing times Areas of the northern-most latitude will start to show color earlier than more southern areas. Generally speaking, the leaf-viewing season begins in late September and runs through early November for much of North America. Peak times for viewing depend on areas of travel and time of year.

For large swaths of Canada and the United States, plan trips for late-September to mid-October. The Weather Channel offers maps and charts at www. weather.com/maps/fall-foliage for the peak times for many areas of the U.S.

The Thompsonville Trail in is a popular spot any time of the year.

Pick your destination Anywhere with deciduous trees provides the opportunity to witness blazing autumn color.

During leaf-peeping season, travelers can go coast to coast and see awesome vistas. Some regions are particularly known for their leaf displays. New York's Catskill and Adirondack regions are prime spots for visitors in the autumn. Those who live further north will find that leaves in Vermont are such an attraction that routes are published indicating where to enjoy the best views.

Further south, Central and Eastern Virginia peak in late October.

And don't forget the shores of

The Weather Channel offers maps and charts at www.weather.com/maps/fall-foliage for the peak times for many areas of the U.S. the Great Lakes, which are awash in reds, oranges and yellows by mid-September. The travel resource Frommer's offers more leaf-peeping locales to visit.

Pack the right gear While most people are not without a smartphone that can capture amazing high-resolution imagery, serious leaf photographers may want to take out their prized camera equipment for leaf-peeping excursions. Also bring along a map or a GPS-en-

abled device so you can explore back roads and areas off the beaten path more readily.

shops may not take credit cards, so it's best to have cash on hand for food and souvenirs.

There are plenty of apps that can help with foliage-finding adventures, so a phone is a handy tool. When packing, also bring along hiking boots, comfortable layered clothing and any equipment youÕd normally take for an afternoon in the great outdoors.

Extend the day

Another idea is to hit the ATM machine prior to the visit. Many smaller towns and their local

Make leaf-peeping part of a larger series of events for the day.

Scope out vineyards where you can sample local wines or plan trips around orchards, where you can come home with beautiful photos as well as fresh-picked apples and pumpkins. You may find a county fair or street festival while exploring.

VENTURE: FALL 2019

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Lake Michigan shoreline a great birding location

BY ROBERT MYERS n VENTURE STAFF WRITER While unique circumstances may cause bird migration patterns to change, the next several months still promise to offer great bird watching in Benzie County.

Perhaps the biggest challenge bird watchers may face this year is the high water levels on Lake Michigan.

Local Audubon club board member Douglas Cook said that the best places for bird watching are typically along Lake Michigan, where shore birds can be frequently spotted in the late summer and early fall months, however, with very little beach remaining, locations to bird watch from and the natural habitats where the birds like to land are rather limited.

“Normally we’d be looking for shore birds between now and late September, but there is no habitat, so we aren’t quite sure what is going to happen with that,” Cook said. “Normally, we’d have a lot of shore birds right now, but with the high water they are not stopping because there is no place for them to land and feed.”

Fortunately for bird lovers, fall warblers should not be as affected by the water levels as some of the early season shore birds, and should be visible a little later in the fall. This time of year, Cook said that the warblers will be

trickier to identify, as they have more subdued colors than they did when they came north in the spring, but they still should be plentiful along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Ducks and other waterfowl will follow the warblers in late fall.

Cook mentioned buffleheads, goldeneyes and red-breasted mergansers as a few of the many species birdwatchers should be looking for.

A rarer sight might be white pelicans or great egrets. If birders are really lucky, they might even spot a purple sandpiper, which may pass through in late October or early November.

A Black Throated Green Warbler is one of the many bird species that can be found along the lakeshore. (Courtesy photos/Carl Freeman)

As for where to search for birds along the lake shore, Cook said the locations are many. Often times, Audubon members will check out Point Betsie, Otter Creek Beach, Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve or the Baldy Trail of Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve.

“Any place where you can get a little elevation and see the water is good,” he said.

Inland locations where individuals can frequently spot birds are Arcadia Marsh and Betsie Bay, particularly on the Elberta side and by the marsh.

The exact timing for when to spot birds on their migration

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An American White Pelican spreads its massive wings. (Courtesy photos/Carl Freeman)

paths is always a bit tricky, and Cook said he has noticed certain species migrating later in the fall during the area’s recent trend of warmer Septembers.

Fortunately for the birds, changes in fall migration dates don’t tend to be as dangerous as a late spring can be. In the fall, birds tend to leave when it gets cold or their food sources start to fail, however, flying north too quickly in the spring can be fatal if they outfly their available food or suffer a sudden cold spell that takes that food source away.

Because birds tend to have all of the food they need available in nature during the late summer and fall months, Cook recommends not feeding birds this time of year. While it may draw a few more birds to your house, they don’t need it and the food may also draw unwelcome visitors.

“Really the only reason to feed birds in the fall is because you want to keep them close where you can see them,” Cook said.

“There is plenty of wild food for them. In fact, there has been more and more reports of bears hitting feeders. It’s probably a good idea, unless the weather gets extreme, not to feed them, because bears are going to be out feeding before hibernation … People should wait until after the weather gets really bad and bears are in hibernation.”

Timing of migration isn’t the only thing that can change. Cook said sometimes species may or may not come through depending on the conditions. In particular, he pointed to snowy owls which did not pass through Benzie County last year after being frequently spotted in previous seasons.

For those looking to go on birding adventure with the experts,

Sand pipers are one family of birds to look for this fall. (Courtesy photo/John Ester) the Benzie Audubon Club has several upcoming events worth checking out.

head out to a local birding spot as determined at the time by one of the groups experts.

A grassland birding adventure will take place at 9 a.m. on Sept.

14 at the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Kiosk on Kiellor Road.

Lastly, the Benzie Audubon Club will set out at 9 a.m. on Oct. 26 to search for waterfowl at Point Betsie.

Also, the group will meet at 9 a.m. on Oct. 12 for coffee at Petals and Perks in Frankfort and

For more information about the Benzie Audubon Club, visit benzieaudubon.org.

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The Betsie Valley Trail, between Frankfort and Elberta, has several views of the scenic Betsie Bay and wetlands.

Experience fall color on the Betsie Valley Trail

BY COLIN MERRY n VENTURE STAFF WRITER The Betsie Valley Trail is a great place for visitors and residents to enjoy the fall weather and see a variety of northern Michigan environments during the colorful seasonal change.

The 22 mile trail begins in the coastal City of Frankfort, on the shores of Lake Michigan.

From there, it curves along the scenic Betsie Bay, into the Village of Elberta, before taking a turn inland. This portion of the trail between Frankfort and Crystal Lake is paved, offering great access for road bicycles

Rollerblades and wheelchairs.

Between Frankfort and Elberta, visitors will get to see wild waterfront shorelines, as well as wetlands newly invigorated by recent high water levels.

Here, tall grasses, reeds and cattails can be seen growing, and animals like frogs, turtles and snakes can be found, and waterfowl, such as ducks, swans and herons can be seen.

There is a viewing platform along the portion of the trail overlooking a great marsh at the end of the Betsie River,

8 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

The Charlie Kehr Memorial Connector connects the Mary Margaret Johnson Trail to the Betsie Valley Trail along Crystal Lake in the Railroad Point Natural Area. (Courtesy Photo)

before it empties into Betsie Bay, where visitors can read information about the animals and plants they may see.

From Betsie Bay, the trail continues inland, though grasslands at the the forest edge, eventually transitioning to lowland forests full of poplar trees with leaves changing from green to gold. Eventually, the trail runs through the Adams Road trail head, where there is access to restroom facilities and the Betsie River.

From there, the trail follows the river for some time, under a canopy of trees, just in time for fall colors. Along this portion of the trail, several woodland ponds can be seen, as well.

The trail eventually hits the Mollineaux Road trail head on Crystal Lake, where it changes from asphalt to a hard-packed aggregate surface. Here, road bikes can continue, but mountain bikes work best on the limestone surface.

ment. Special use restrictions apply here and are listed on trail side signs, and riders are asked to stay on the trail in this area.

The stretch of the trail that spans the 13 miles from Beulah to Thompsonville is also limestone aggregate. This portion of the trail cuts through more remote areas of the county, so there will be fewer homes.

Here, the landscape changes to pine and hardwood upland forests, including 6.5 miles of the Pere Marquette State Forest.

Another wetlands area can be found between Landis and Haze roads, and a portion of the trail near Wolf Road, the old turbine, which once used the Betsie River to bring electricity to the area, also can be seen.

The trail ends in Thompsonville, at Thompsonville Avenue.

The trail continues along the shores of beautiful Crystal Lake, through the Railroad Point Natural Area, a preserve owned

by Benzie County, in partnership with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. In the natural area, there is access to the beach and Crystal Lake.

The trail is owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and maintained by Benzie County through the Friends of the Betsie Valley Trail, a nonprofit formed in 1993 to encourage development and operation of the trail, which was built on a portion of the Ann Arbor Railroad abandoned in 1994.

Closer to the Village of Beulah, the trail passes through private property on a 10 foot ease-

For more information on the Betise Valley Trail, visit betsievalleytrail.org.

An overlook over the Betsie River along the paved portion of the Betsie Valley Trail.

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Fall colors can't be beat in Manistee, Benzie and Mason counties

BY KEN GRABOWSKI n ASSOCIATE EDITOR When it comes to artwork, there isn’t any artist that can match the color schemes found in a Northern Michigan fall color tour.

Three counties that exemplify that beauty each year are Manistee, Benzie and Mason counties.

Within the confines of these are a perfect mixture of Lake Michigan shoreline and Manistee National Forest. It is a combination that isn’t offered anywhere else in Michigan.

Riding a bike along one of the trails in the fall months is a good way to see plenty of color in the woods.

Starting in the northern most reach of this area, Benzie County is filled with the rolling hills both along the shoreline and inland.

The elevations give a spectacular overview of the colors in the lower elevations and make it a virtual sea of reds, yellows and orange in every direction.

On sections of M-115 from Cadillac to Thompsonville and Benzie the fall season is nothing short of spectacular. However, it is just a prelude of what is to come on the roads into Frankfort.

Country roads throughout Manistee, Mason and Benzie counties provide enjoyable rides during the fall months.

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colors is an abundance of fruit farms. What better way to view a color tour than munching on one of Northern Michigan’s finest apples while enjoying the drive?

When a break is needed from the drive, the many unique quaint shops in Benzonia and Frankfort mixed with with outstanding restaurants and unique places to spend the night make it a great place to visit.

Along the way, one of the notable places for exceptional viewing is at Inspiration Point just outside of Arcadia. It is the highest point on the shore of West Michigan and offers 360 degree views of the beauty of Lake Michigan to the west and the wooded colorful areas in all other directions.

Continuing along M-22, the road is lined with colorful trees and a series of winding roads that lead down into the Village of Onekama with some great views of the colors over Portage Lake. With many interesting restaurants and The ride along the stretch of shops in Onekama people can M-115 from U.S. 31 to Frankfort spend some additional time in is a series of elevations and declines that offers views of color the village. capable of taking one’s breath Manistee is next on the way, but away. to get there it is necessary to pass by some farming areas and In the northern reaches of the other scenic views. In Manistee county, those who follow M-22 there are things to do like the from the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are also in for taking a casual stroll down the Riverwalk located along the a treat. An added perk is taking Manistee River Channel or taking the time to climb Sleeping Bear a step back in time on a fall day Dunes, because once at the top to visit the Victorian village. The it will offer a spectacular view of Glen Lake filled with tree color in Manistee area offers many amenities that make it a perfect stop the fall. on a fall color tour as festivals, M-22 is essentially the thread the Little River Casino Resort and that dances along the Lake MichRamsdell Regional Center for the igan shoreline from Benzie to Manistee County. Mixed with the Continued on Page 12

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VENTURE: FALL 2019

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Manistee, Benzie and Mason counties become a beautiful sea of colors every fall.

Continued from Page 10 The community also includes Arts offer opportunities for lots of enjoyment.

many other historic buildings like the oldest continuously active fire department in the state and

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the Ramsdell Theatre where actor James Earl Jones got his start. There also is a variety of mansions constructed by the lumber barons of the late 1800s.

Mixed in with all of it is an abundance of hardwood trees filled with nature’s artwork in the month of October.

Something else that is quite unique that is offered in Manistee is a view of the colors from the air, provided by Orchard Beach Aviation at Manistee Country Blacker Airport.

Fall color flights are conducted during October and reservations can be obtained by calling the airport. People can either view the colors on a crisp morning, mid-day or view the colors and catch a beautiful sunset view from over Lake Michigan.

Orchard Beach Aviation’s Jeff Wright said the fall color tours from the air are very popular.

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“The basic one we do is a 15 minute flight and we can take three people at a time,” said Wright. “You will see fall colors and the route we take gives a little view of the Lake Michigan shoreline.”

Wright said seeing the colors from the air offers a different perspective.

“You can see a wide range of area once you are up in the air,” he said. “With your visibility you can see colors miles off. Fall colors is one of our busiest times of the year to do airplane rides. We have been doing this for quite a few years. For fall colors reservations are highly recommended.”

Mason County also offers a variety of color viewing areas in the rural parts of the county. A prime spot is the Ludington State Park where people can mix some exercise in with the viewing.

The park has more than 21 miles of marked hiking trails through dunes, forests and wetlands. For the more adventurous paddlers, the park’s 4-mile canoe trail through Hamlin Lake and its bordering marshlands, provides a challenging trip. A boat launch is available for access to the 5,000-acre Hamlin Lake.

Further to the south and east, the county has plenty of country roads filled with farmland and lots more color.

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Hunting more than sport: a Michigan tradition

BY DYLAN SAVELA n VENTURE STAFF WRITER As sure as the leaves changing colors, fall in northwest Michigan brings deer hunters far and wide to the area.

For many, deer hunting is much more than a hobby, rather it's a way of life — a tradition. It isn't uncommon for family deer camps to date back generations, as loved ones — young and old — share in the annual practice, making unforgettable memories along the way.

The sport makes for a tremendous boost in Michigan's economy too, as nearly $2.3 billion is spent on hunting annually and $289 million goes to state and local taxes. A bulk of those sums are spent right here in northwest Michigan.

But before hunters take to the woods, there are a few details of which they should definitely be aware.

According to the Department of Natural Resources, an annual base license is required for every resident or nonresident who hunts in Michigan, unless otherwise noted.

The base license allows hunters to hunt small game and to purchase additional hunting licenses.

Base licenses are $6 for juniors, $11 for Michigan residents, $151 for nonresidents and $5 for Michigan seniors (age 65 and up).

Additionally, deer licenses are $20 for residents or nonresidents and $8 for Michigan seniors.

To purchase a license, or for further information on licenses, visit www.michigan.gov/dnr.

There are also many seasonal dates to mark on the calendar when it comes to deer hunting, which range from late September to the end of 2019.

This year the Liberty Hunt (youth and hunters with disabilities) lands on the weekend of Sept.

14-15, while the early antlerless

firearm season will be held the following weekend, Sept. 21-22.

The Independence Hunt (hunters with disabilities) will be held Oct. 17-20.

The archery season for 2019 will be held from Oct. 1 to Nov. 14 and again from Dec. 1 to Jan. 1, 2020.

The regular firearm season kicks off on Nov. 15 and will run to Nov. 30. Muzzleloading will run Dec. 6-15 (Zones 1 and 2) and Dec. 6-22 for Zone 3.

Lastly, the late anterless firearm season will be held from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1, 2020.

Deer hunting is hugely popular in northwest Michigan. (Courtesy photo)

For hunters without a back forty of their own to hunt, there are plenty of options for public state wildlife and game areas to choose from. For an interactive map and details of these locations, visit www.michigan.gov/dnr.

It also should be noted this year that a series of deer hunting regulations aimed at slowing the spread of chronic wasting disease were recently approved by the Michigan Natural Resources Commission.

According to the DNR, chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological (brain and nervous system) disease found in cervids (deer, elk and moose). The disease attacks the brain of an infected animal and produces small lesions that result in death. There is no cure; once an animal is infected, it will die.

Major deer hunting regulations, which were approved for the 2019 deer seasons, include: • A continued ban on baiting and feeding in the entire Lower Peninsula — which took effect at the end of January 2019. There is an exception to this ban for hunters with disabilities during the Liberty and Independence hunts. Qualifying hunters are allowed to use

14 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Hunting can be a family tradition dating back generations in northwest Michigan. (Courtesy photo) 2 gallons at a time of single-bite baits during deer seasons; • Allow baiting and feeding in the Upper Peninsula except for a ban, effective immediately, in the Core CWD Surveillance Area. This core area comprises some 660 square miles, defined by major roadways within portions of Menominee, Delta and Dickinson counties around the single case of a CWD-positive deer found last year in the Upper Peninsula. Consistent with regulations in the Lower Peninsula, there is an exception to the baiting ban in the U.P. Core

Area for hunters with disabilities during the Liberty and Independence hunts.

“We hope that by setting these specific CWD regulations we can limit the movement of this disease in Michigan,” said Vicki Pontz, NRC chairperson. “We appreciate all the comments we have received from across the state. Michigan hunters are very passionate about deer and deer hunting, and I look forward to working with them as we continue to confront this threat to wildlife and our valued hunting tradition.”

VENTURE: FALL 2019

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Autumn attractions make for frightful fun

BY SCOTT FRALEY n VENTURE STAFF WRITER Every October the Manistee Chippewa’s yellow and blue make way for orange and black as residents and tourists prepare for the season’s spooky celebrations and eerie adventures.

Autumn may bring cooler temperatures and crisper air to Northern Michigan, but Manistee’s Ghost Ship regularly sends shivers down spines.

Every Friday and Saturday in October, the historic SS City of Milwaukee transforms into the Ghost Ship — a haunted house on water with five decks of spooky scenery.

While screams and scares await, organizers aim to have their guests smiling upon their exit from the ship.

“If they walk off with a smile on their face, that’s what we’re shooting for,” said Linda Spencer, executive director of the SS City of Milwaukee. “We don’t go heavy on the gore and blood — we have elements of it here and there — but a lot of what we try to do is give you a scare and maybe some laughs. We want you to have a good time.”

The Ghost Ship is not recommended for children under 7. For more information, visit www.manisteeghostship.com.

The spooky celebrations continue in Manistee on Oct. 26 during the annual Boos, Brews and Brats event. The festivities, hosted by the Manistee Elks, include kids’ games, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, a Monster Bash with an adult costume contest and live music, beer,

brats and cider. Outrun the walking dead with the Zombie 5K Run, or just wait it out at the .5K Pub Crawl.

Throughout Manistee County, the fall harvest season signals a return of the scarecrows. These festive figures first crop up on Oct. 1 with Kaleva’s annual Parade of Scarecrows. Meanwhile, in Onekama over 60 scarecrows line up along M-22 to welcome visitors to the Portage Lake area’s seasonal color route.

Local institutions like The Civic Players and Ramsdell Theater get into the spirit of the season. In 2018, these groups presented a rendition of “The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy.”

The old Victorian homes of Manistee County take on a sinister cast around the 31st when trick-ortreaters go out in search of candy — and mischief.

While Northern Michigan boasts fun and safe trick-or-treating opportunities, historic White Pine Village near Ludington can offer youngsters a fun-filled and memorable experience. Every year, the village hosts a costume contest for kids 12 and under with prizes awarded for the funniest and the scariest costumes. Kids are encouraged to bring a bag and flashlight to take part in the village's trick-ortreat fun as many of the buildings will be open with volunteers ready to dole out treats.

October also marks the return of the Haunted Trail at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville. Follow the lanterns from Loki lift down the Haunted Trail — if you dare.

The Haunted Trail is available from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26. For more information on the Haunted Trail visit www. crystalmountain.com/event/ haunted-trail-1.

16 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

A girl paints a pumpkin during the Boos, Brews and Brats event in downtown Manistee.

Legend has it a ghostly captain helms the wheel in the pilot house of the Manistee Ghost Ship.

ONEKAMA EVENTS September 12 – December 5 Near & Farr Friends - every Thursday, 2:30 – 4:30 - Onekama Township Bldg., 5435 Main St. (M-22) Late September ‘til Halloween Enjoy the many delightful, creative scarecrows as you drive through Onekama on M-22.

Stop and take some pictures and enjoy the shops and the Village.

October 12 Fall Festival – Village Park 10am – 3pm – Arts & Crafts Show, food vendors, bake sale, silent auction, pet parade/costume contest, bounce house & many children’s activities (free) 10am – One Mile Fun Run – costumes encouraged (free) 10am – 3pm – hay rides & bull train (free) November 23 Christmas in Onekama – Onekama Consolidated School Cafetorium and gym 10am – 3pm - Craft Show, baked goods & poinsettias 11am – 2pm - Chili Cook-off November 24 6pm – Celebration of Lights – Farr Center Lighting of Community Tree and reading of memorial names, carol sing For more information see www.Onekama.info Follow us on Facebook at 1, - Onekama, Michigan

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VENTURE: FALL 2019

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Dublin General Store a jerky destination

b e n

D j b — i l a o h o c o

BY ROBERT MYERS n VENTURE STAFF WRITER Since 1935, Dublin General Store has been a popular destination in southeastern Manistee County, and in recent years, the store’s impressive jerky selection has only added to its fame.

Greg Fischer refers to himself as Dublin General Store’s “current caretaker.” He is a third-generation owner of the family business that his grandpa and grandma

first started. In the years since they opened the general store, it has also been owned by Greg’s great uncle, his father and jointly by he and his brother. Greg and his wife Bonnie have held sole ownership of the store since 2002.

While the store may be 84 years old, its modern claim to fame is its jerky production, which

In addition to jerky, Dublin General Store carries a variety of homemade sausages.

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For those who prefer sweets to meats, Dublin General Store also has homemade fudge.

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Bonnie and Greg Fisher own Dublin General Store.

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began in 1975 and has since earned Dublin General Store its nickname: “The Jerky Place.”

Dublin General Store makes jerky from all the basic meats — beef, pork, chicken and turkey — as well as various wild game, including venison, elk, buffalo, pheasant, kangaroo, duck, alligator and more, depending on what they have in stock. They have also come up with a variety of flavors for the meat, seemingly coming out with one or two new ones every year.

While Dublin General Store creates new flavors every year, Dean Fischer, Greg’s son, said their original beef has remained a constant customer favorite, along with barbecued beef, peppered beef and teriyaki beef.

Elk and buffalo are their most popular wild game meats.

The family may have started out focusing on jerky, but in more

recent years they have branched out to produce sausage sticks and summer sausage as well as an impressive selection of bratwurst with nearly every flavor you can imagine.

Dublin General Store also sells a variety of specialty cheeses and homemade fudge.

“You’ve just got to do something different than everybody else,” Greg said. “Everybody can sell groceries, but I think today you have to do something different.

Between all the big box stores, the Dollar General stores and the online stuff, I think you have to make yourself a destination.

That’s what we are working toward.”

As can be guessed by its name, Dublin General Store sells more than meats, cheeses and fudge.

It is a full grocery store and a full hardware store, which also sells clothing and hunting and fishing

items, making it truly a one stop shop.

This large selection, combined with its specialty meats, have won Dublin General Store recognition as the best general store in Northern Michigan.

For this, Greg credits his employees and dedicated customers for all their support.

“It is a combination of the people who shop here and the people who work here,” Greg said. “We’ve got a lot of people who have been working here a long time, and that’s really what makes it go. And we have a big diversity of customers from all over, from people who live around here to people who vacation up here.

Plus, we’ve become somewhat of a destination, which we worked awful hard to do.”

Dublin General Store truly has become a destination – whether for the people who visit every

time they are Up North or the people who will drive all the way across the county just because it’s their favorite place to buy a steak or a bag of jerky.

The store even has a national following thanks to its online store, which ships jerky, summer sausage, cheese, seasonings, fudge, candles and souvenirs across the country.

“I’ve got some people who drive out here from Manistee just to buy some steaks and things like that. There are people who have been coming up here for years, longer than I’ve been around here,” Dean said. “It’s very nice to hear that from people, and from the amount of it we sell, we’ve got to be doing something right.”

Dublin General Store is located at 18372 Hoxeyville Road in Wellston. For more information, visit dublinstore.com or call (231) 859-4121.

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19

Fat biking popularity on the rise in western Michigan

BY KEN GRABOWSKI n ASSOCIATE EDITOR The concept of riding a bicycle took on a whole new dimension when the popular fat bikes entered the scene in the early 2000s.

Suddenly instead of being primarily a one or two-season sport, cycling became a four-season option for cyclists. It also opened the door to traverse new terrain and even some of the elements that Mother Nature tosses at everyone during the winter months.

Manistee cycling enthusiast Ken Blakey-Shell has been active in trail creation in Manistee County

and as a member of the Shoreline Cycling Club in Ludington.

He said the fat biking experience is growing in strength and improved trails maintenance is adding to the popularity.

"It is definitely growing and participation numbers are going up every year," said Blakey-Shell. "We are revising and refining how we are grooming trails and getting better at it every year."

There are several fat tire bike trails in the Manistee, Mason and Benzie county area that offer a variety of challenges to riders from the novice to the experi-

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The fat bike craze has allowed biking enthusiasts to participate in the sport all four seasons of the year. enced. Blakey-Shell said hosting races on some of these trails is something that has also made an impact on getting a better grasp on making the trails better for the riders.

One of those trails popular for races in Manistee County is the Big M Cross Country Ski area off of M-55 between Manistee and Cadillac that offers 20 miles of groomed trail that runs a scenic route through the Manistee National Forest. Riders come from all over the Midwest to compete in the races held there, and Blakey-Shell said word of mouth is a great way to spread what that area has to offer.

"Holding the races out there has been getting the word out and getting more people into the sport," said Blakey-Shell.

Something that has also been helping get the word out around the state is the simple fact that Manistee, Mason and Benzie counties are home to some very fine fat biking trails.

"There are some good trails up at Crystal Mountain Resort, we have the Big M, the Trail Park and the

school forest area in Ludington," said Blakey-Shell.

The school forest trail down in Ludington will see some changes after voters in the Ludington School District recently approved a bond proposal to build a new elementary school in a portion of that location.

"Those trails are going to see some modifications, but from what I understand most of what is going to be affected is the area that was home to the disc golf course area," said Blakey-Shell.

"There is still quite a bit of trail out there that is not going to be impacted at all so they still will get more than five miles of groomed trail down there."

Blakey-Shell said the popularity of fat bikes is spread across all age groups.

"It is kind of the hard core bikers who are really doing it," he said.

"Luckily based on how we groom it is a sport that is approachable for all kinds of skill levels. So fortunately there is a lot of other people who are now starting to get into that it isn't intimidating

to get out there and do it."

One of the things they make a concerted effort to do at the Big M Trails is find areas that are comfortable to riders of all skill levels.

"Portions of the trail are demanding because it is hilly, narrow and more advanced level," said Blakey-Shell. "But we make sure we have at least five miles of groomed trail out there that essentially anyone with a fat bike could go out there and ride around to have a good time."

The versatility of the fat bikes is something that appeals to many riders as well. The sandy soils of beaches and other such areas can be a perfect way to use them during summer, as can the snow covered trails of winter that are so prevalent in this part of Michigan.

"That is what is so appealing about fat bikes is it's truly a

four-season bike that you can have a ball on without having too many compromises," said Blakey-Shell.

Overall, the sport is moving forward at a good pace," said Blakey-Shell. There is a collaboration going on between the ski council and the Shoreline Cycling Club where they are building a storage facility out at the Big M Ski area.

"That is going to be out there to protect our equipment for both the ski and the fat bike trails," said Blakey-Shell. "We have been working a lot with the forest service and things like that and slowly but surely it gets better every year and more people are coming up to this area to take advantage of it."

Blakey-Shell said it seems obvious that the fat biking craze hasn't peaked yet, and that he can see the popularity growing even stronger in the future.

FAT TIRE BIKE TRAILS IN MANISTEE, MASON AND BENZIE COUNTIES BENZIE COUNTY: • Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville: The six mile bike trail offers many options and challenges for riders of all ages.

MANISTEE COUNTY: • Manistee Non-Motorized Trail Park: The 173 acre non-mortorized trail is just east of the M-55 and U.S. 31 intersection. The four season park includes two fat bike loops with the west loop being 1.6 miles and the Outer loop being 3.8 miles long.

• Big M Cross Country Ski area: From Manistee take M-55 14 miles to Udell Hills Road, take that road south 3.5 miles to the Big M. Ride about 20 miles of groomed trails that weave through the Manistee National Forest. There is a separate entrance to the fat bike loops off the parking lots slightly to the east of the signboard.

MASON COUNTY: • Ludington School Forest: This eight mile trail is maintained by the Shoreline Cycling Club in the midst of the the Ludington School Forest. Best winter access to the park is at the Methodist Church on Bryant Road (west of Jebavy) and ride west to trail crossing just before Sherman Road.

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Northern Natural brews and serves USDA Certified Organic hard ciders in a variety of flavors.

Northern Natural brews fresh, organic cider at Kaleva facility

BY ASHLYN KORIENEK n VENTURE STAFF WRITER When it comes to the fall season people often think of vibrant leaves changing colors, but if you ask a Michigander to describe the taste of fall they might mention a popular beverage that's best served fresh or alcoholic: apple cider.

While hard cider sales have been skyrocketing, fresh cider is still a local favorite enjoyed by all ages.

"We sell a lot more fresh cider than we do alcoholic cider," Mackey said. "Meijer is one of biggest customers but we sell it all around the Midwest — Whole Foods Market buys it, too.

There are two places on this side of the Rocky Mountains that do an organic cider — us and an outfit in southern Pennsylvania.

There's not a lot of organic producers in this region."

Northern Natural Cider House and Winery — a Michigan-based company located on Chief Road in Kaleva — is one of two organic cider producers located in Michigan. Dennis Mackey, Norther Natural CEO, said their organic fresh cider has been growing in popularity around the Midwest.

Northern Natural produces a wide selection of organic hard ciders and fruit wines, and last fall, all of their signature hard ciders were USDA Certified Organic. Their main selection ranges from blueberry apple to lavender apple. At the tasting house, visitors can try up to 10 different hard ciders on tap.

22 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Mackey said his son, Kyle Mackey, general manager and brewer, creates special flavors made from fresh ingredients. Kyle has a culinary background from Great Lakes Culinary Institute, and is the alchemist of hard ciders, testing different combinations and taking public feedback. One of his most successful creations is a cranberry ginger hard cider.

While making hard cider from scratch is a lengthy process, Mackey said the results are unlike any other.

"We are may be one of four companies in the Untied States that have a certified organic hard cider," he said. "My son does the fermenting, and he will generally do something new in the fall. Last year was a pumpkin cider. When he does a pumpkin

cider he does not buy it from concentrate and dump it in, he goes out and buys organic pumpkins."

Northern Natural blends multiple varieties of Manistee and Leelanau County certified organic heirloom apples that produce crisp flavors. The apples are fresh pressed by Northern Natural, carefully brewed and then served.

In the fall, Mackey said their focus is making fresh cider.

"We are open year-round, but in the fall we start fresh cider about Oct. 1 and this year we got done

by May 1," he said. "We did fresh cider for about seven months.

While we are doing that we still have to ferment the hard cider.

Fresh cider is really our focus because we can't make enough

of it. I have to limit my customer base, but we have found ways to up our production."

During the fall and winter months, Mackey said the crew works on pressing apples. If an apple has even a dime size of rot, they toss it out of the mix.

"We inspect everything that we press," he said. "If it has a spot of rot, we throw it out. We have zero tolerance on rot because it affects our flavor. We are after the best possible flavor — that's pricey."

The tasting house, at 7220 Chief Road, is open Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 7 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. and is closed on Mondays. To contact Northern Natural Organics call (231) 889-0064, or visit www. northernnaturalwinery.com for more details.

Northern Natural Cider House and Winery is located in Kaleva of Manistee County. The tasting house is open to visitors year-round.

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VENTURE: FALL 2019

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2019

Fall & Winter Events Calendar

Bear Lake's Sparkle in the Park

AUGUST AUG. 28 • 7 p.m. LACA Summer Concert Series, Sunset Groove, Ludington

AUG. 29 • 5 p.m. Live in the Plaza: Cousin Curtis, James Street Plaza, Ludington • 7 p.m. Roots on the River concert, Veterans Memorial Park, Manistee

AUG. 30 • Brethren Days • 1 p.m. Bear Lake Farmers Market • 7 p.m. Blue Water Ramblers, Log Cabin Concert, Kaleva

• Minnehaha Brewhaha Music Festival, Arcadia Marine, Arcadia • Michigan Reptiles & Amphibians hosted by Friends of Ludington State Park, Ludington State Park • 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Manistee Farmers Market • 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Manistee LaborFest Classic Car and Motorcycle Show, First Street Beach, Manistee • 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 3rd Annual Indoor Juried Fine Art Fair, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, Ludington • 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friends of the Manistee County Library Summer's End Book Sale, Manistee Library

AUG. 31

• Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house

• Brethren Days

• 1-11 p.m. Manistee LaborFest,

24 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

First Street Beach, Manistee

SEPTEMBER SEPT. 1 • Brethren Days • Shoreline All Breed Youth Horse Show, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington

SEPT. 3 • 7 p.m. Ludington Writer's Movie Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• 1 p.m. Bear Lake Farmers Market • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts • 9 p.m. Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, Little River Casino Resort

SEPT. 7 • Manistee County Sport Fishing Association Monster Fishing Tournament • National Coho Salmon Festival, Honor

SEPT. 6

• 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Manistee Farmers Market

• National Coho Salmon Festival, Honor

• 10 a.m. West Michigan Old Engine Club Antique Tractor Pull, Scottville Riverside Park

• Manistee County Sport Fishing Association Monster Fishing Tournament • West Michigan RV and Boat Show, Loomis Street Marina and Waterfront Park, Ludington

• Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house • West Michigan RV and Boat Show, Loomis Street Marina

and Waterfront Park, Ludington • 1:30 p.m. Bloomer Cup Regatta, Ludington

SEPT. 8 • Manistee County Sport Fishing Association Monster Fishing Tournament • National Coho Salmon Festival, Honor • Mason County Saddle Club Horse Show, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington • West Michigan RV and Boat Show, Loomis Street Marina and Waterfront Park, Ludington

SEPT. 12 • 7 p.m. An Intimate Evening with Steve & Kaedin Plummer, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

SEPT. 14 • Tri-Up North Triathalon, Frankfort • Michigan Horse Association District 9 Meet, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington • 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Manistee Farmers Market • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house • 1 p.m. Garden Tractor Pulls, West Michigan Old Engine Club grounds at Scottville Riverside Park • 8 p.m. Ambrosia, Little River Casino Resort

SEPT. 15

SEPT. 18 • 2 p.m. A Walking Tour of the “Hill” Homes, Manistee County Historical Museum • 6 p.m. Mark Lavengood, Northern Natural Cider House & Winery, Chief Road, Kaleva • 7 p.m. Plant It Wild Program, Creating a Rain Garden, Trinity Lutheran Church, Frankfort

• Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house,

• Frankfort Beer Week

• 1 p.m. Chili and Suds Golf Scramble, Lakeside Links, Ludington.

• 7:30 p.m. From "The Voice," Josh Davis, West Shore Community College

OCT. 1

• 7:30 p.m. From "The Voice," Josh Davis, West Shore Community College • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

SEPT. 21 • Michigan Horse Association District 9 Equestrian Horse Show, Noon, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington • Hops & Props on the River, downtown Manistee • 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Manistee Farmers Market • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house, • Noon- 5 p.m. Big Sable Point Lighthouse Bus Tour and music by Oceania Drive, Ludington State Park • Betsie Valley Ride For Reading, Geno's Sports Bar and Grill, Thompsonville

SEPT. 27 • Ludington Octoberfest presented by Bell's Brewing, downtown Ludington

• 1 p.m. Blessing of the Animals, Circle Rocking "S" Children's Farm, Free Soil

SEPT. 28 • Ludington Octoberfest presented by Bell's Brewing, downtown Ludington • Michigan Horse Association Region D Equestrian Horse

• Frankfort Beer Week

OCT. 10

OCTOBER

SEPT. 20

• OCT. 9

• 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Manistee Farmers Market

SEPT. 19

• Michigan Horse Association District 9 Meet, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington

• 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free Guided Tour with Michigan Legacy Art Park, Crystal Mountain Resort, Thompsonville

Show, Mason County Fairgrounds, Ludington

• 7 p.m. Ludington Writer's Movie Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts • 3:30 p.m. Special Needs Hay Ride and Potluck, Circle Rocking "S" Children's Farm, Free Soil

OCT. 3 • 7:30 p.m. The Magic of Bill Blagg, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

OCT. 4 • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

OCT. 5 • Fallfest, Beulah and Benzonia

OCT. 11 • Frankfort Beer Week

OCT. 12 • Frankfort Beer Week • Frankfort Fall Fest • 10 a.m. Antique Tractor Pull, West Michigan Old Engine Club grounds, Scottville Riverside Park • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Turandot" (Puccini), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee • 7:30 p.m. Music by MSU BeBop Spartans, Peterson Auditorium, Ludington

OCT. 13 • Last Sailing Day of Season for S.S. Badger, Ludington • 2:30-4:30 p.m. Guided Art Park Color Tour, Michigan Legacy Art Park, Crystal Mountain Resort, Thompsonville

• 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Manistee Farmers Market

OCT. 17

• 9 a.m.-5 p.m. St. Simon Applefest, St. Simon Family Center and Ludington Area Catholic School, Ludington

• Frankfort Film Festival, The Garden Theater, Frankfort

• 10 a.m. Garden Tractor Pulls, West Michigan Old Engine Club grounds at Scottville Riverside Park • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house

OCT. 18 • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium • Frankfort Film Festival, The Garden Theater, Frankfort

OCT. 7

• 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• Frankfort Beer Week

OCT. 19

OCT. 8 • Frankfort Beer Week

• Peak2Peak Mountain Bike Classic, Crystal Mountain Resort, Thompsonville VENTURE: FALL 2019

25

• Frankfort Film Festival, The Garden Theater, Frankfort • 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Haunted Village, White Pine Village, Ludington • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house • Noon Lakeside Club Tea and Fashion Show, Manistee • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium • 8 p.m. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Little River Casino Resort

OCT. 20 • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium

town Manistee • 9 a.m. Run For Your Lives 5k, 10k and Half Marathon, downtown Ludington • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Manon" (Massenet), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee • Noon-4 p.m. Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place open house • 1:45-4 p.m. Downtown Ludington Halloween • 6 p.m. Ludrock presents Night of Fright, Ludington Area Center for the Arts • 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium

• Frankfort Film Festival, The Garden Theater, Frankfort

• 7:30 p.m. WSCC Theater Department presents "Frankenstein," West Shore Community College

OCT. 21

OCT. 27

• 8 p.m. Star-Gazing, Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore Dune Climb

• 2 p.m. WSCC Theater Department presents "Frankenstein," West Shore Community College

OCT. 24 • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Theater Department presents "Frankenstein," West Shore Community College

• 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium

Company

NOV. 6 • 5:30 p.m. Taste of Manistee, hosted by the Manistee News Advocate, Little River Casino Resort

NOV. 7 • 6:30 p.m. Brian Oberlin Solo Mandolin Concert, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

NOV. 8 • 6 p.m. Pure Pro Wrestling, VFW Walsh Post 4499, Manistee

NOV. 9

NOV. 14 • 7 p.m. An Intimate Evening with Travis Swanson, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

NOV. 15 • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

NOV. 1

• 7:30 p.m. WSCC Theater Department presents "Frankenstein," West Shore Community College

• 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• 7:30 p.m. Manistee Civic Players present “Miss Holmes,” Manistee High School Auditorium

• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mistletoe Market, Lincoln Hills Golf Club, Ludington

• 9 p.m. Rodney Atkins, Little River Casino Resort

OCT. 26 • Boos, Brews & Brats, down-

• 5:30 p.m. How It Was Made: The Past & Present of Manistee’s Industry and Manufacturing, North Channel Brewing

26 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

NOV. 29 • Crystal Mountain Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend, Crystal Mountain Resort

• Holly Berry Arts and Crafts Fair, Frankfort Junior Senior High School

• 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Book Hunters Book Sale, Manistee County Library

NOV. 4

• Crystal Mountain Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend, Crystal Mountain Resort

• 7:30 p.m. WSCC Humankind Series Pedrito Martinez Group, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

• 7:30 p.m. The Landscape of Guitar - The Animating Painting Concert Experience, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

NOV. 2

NOV. 28

NOV. 30

NOV. 16

• Regional Student Art Competition, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Akhnaten" (Philip Glass), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Mason County Family Events Christmas Expo, Cornerstone Baptist Church, Ludington

NOVEMBER

OCT. 25

• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Christmas Shoppe arts/crafts show, Mason County Reformed Church, Scottville

NOV. 16 • 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fall Arts and Crafts Show, Ludington Area Catholic School • 8 p.m. Australia's Thunder from Down Under, Little River Casino Resort

NOV. 17 • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Madama Butterfly" (Puccini), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

NOV. 23

• Aglow on the Avenue Parade, Ludington

• 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 11th Annual Holiday Crafts Show, Ludington Area Center for the Arts, Ludington • Crystal Mountain Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend, Crystal Mountain Resort • 10 a.m. Singletrack Showdown Mountain Bike Race, Ludington • 4-6 p.m. Parade Open House, Ludington Library • 7 p.m. Holiday Motown concert, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

DECEMBER DEC. 1 • Crystal Mountain Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend, Crystal Mountain Resort

DEC. 3 • 7 p.m. Ludington Writer's Movie Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

DEC. 4

• 6 p.m. Rotary Club Annual Holiday Auction, Lincoln Hills Golf Club, Ludington

DEC. 5 • Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, Manistee • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Jazz Ensemble, West Shore Community College

DEC. 6 • Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, Manistee • 7:30 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium • 7 p.m. We'll Be Home for the Holidays, Ludington Area Center for the Arts • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

DEC. 7 • Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, Manistee • 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Santa Photos, Ludington Library • 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sleighbell Craft Show, Bake Sale & Raffle, hosted by Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital, Manistee High School • 7 p.m. Full Cord LIVE in concert, Ludington Area Center for the Arts • 7:30 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium

DEC. 8 • Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, Manistee • 2 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium

DEC. 9 • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Gold Coast Chorale, West Shore Community College

DEC. 13 • 7:30 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium

DEC. 14 • 5:30-8:30 p.m. Pioneer Christmas, Historic White Pine Village, Ludington • Christmas Magic Downtown, Beulah • 7:30 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium

DEC. 15 • 2 p.m. "Elf - The Musical" presented by the Manistee Civic Players, Manistee High School Auditorium

DEC. 16 • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Percussion Ensemble & Wind Symphony, Peterson Auditorium, Ludington

DEC. 17 • 7:30 p.m. WSCC Concert Choir, West Shore Community College

DEC. 20 • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

DEC. 21 • 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Edgar Struble presents "A Nashville Family Christmas," Peterson Auditorium, Ludington

DEC. 22 • 3 p.m. Cheryl Whitehead piano recital, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

DEC. 31

• Downtown Ludington New Year's Eve Ball Drop • 7-11:30 p.m. Light Up the Lake Family Party, Ludington Library • "This is 2020: Ramsdell Style" New Year's Eve party, Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts

JAN. 3 • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

JAN. 7 • 7 p.m. Ludington Writer's Movie Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

JAN. 11 • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Wozzeck" (Berg), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

JAN. 17 • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

FEBRUARY FEB. 1 • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "The Gershwins Porgy and Bess,” Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee

FEB. 4 • 7 p.m. Ludington Writer's Movie Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• 2020 Home & Outdoor Living Show, Little River Casino Resort Event Center, Manistee • Bridal Show, Graystone Event Center, Ludington • 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

FEB. 23 • 2020 Home & Outdoor Living Show, Little River Casino Resort Event Center, Manistee • 2 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

FEB. 28 • 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

FEB. 29 • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Agrippina" (Handel), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee • 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

MARCH MARCH 1 • 2 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

MARCH 6 • 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

FEB. 7

MARCH 7

• 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

• 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

FEB. 21

MARCH 8

• 2020 Home & Outdoor Living Show, Little River Casino Resort Event Center, Manistee

• 2 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College

• 7:30 p.m. "Mamma Mia", West Shore Community College • 7 p.m. Open Mic Night, Ludington Area Center for the Arts

FEB. 22

MARCH 14 • 12:55 p.m. MET Opera "Der Fliegende Hollander" (Wagner), Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee VENTURE: FALL 2019

27

Fishing a year-round pastime in northwest Michigan

The area's inland lakes are sure to be bustling with ice fishing this winter.

BY DYLAN SAVELA n VENTURE STAFF WRITER

When winter hits, temperatures tion, there are plenty of opportudrop and inland lakes freeze over. nities for that too.

That, of course, shouldn’t discourage anglers of northwest Michigan from grabbing their poles and heading outdoors for some fishing. For those who don’t mind braving the elements, the area’s renowned ice fishery awaits.

And there are plenty of honey holes to claim.

Portage Lake of Onekama, in Manistee County, is a popular destination for those seeking perch or walleye, while Crystal Lake in Benzie County has provided anglers with perch and smelt.

Mason County’s Hamlin Lake offers sizable bluegill and crappie while Manistee Lake in Manistee County also holds bluegill and even northern pike.

All a casual angler needs is a bucket, a rod, some bait, an auger and maybe a shanty for hours of fun, relaxation and hopefully some bites. But for those with an itch for competi-

Portage Lake makes for a perfect place to hold an ice fishing tournament, and the Manistee County Sport Fishing Association (MCSFA) plans to return for a second annual competition.

"We did it for the first time last year and we had more than 60 people enter," said event organizer Phil Sedelmaier. "I was pleasantly surprised with that. I was hoping to get 40 to come out, but when we saw 60 I was like, 'Wow.'"

Manistee and surrounding counties have plenty of inland lakes primed for ice fishing during the winter months. event.

Sunfish and Whitefish/Cisco.

"Portage seems to be the perfect area for (an ice fishing tournament)," Sedelmaier said, "because there's a lot of difference species you can fish and the ice is safe.

"It kind of evolved from what we do in the summer," Sedelmaier said. "So we thought, why don't we try doing something during the winter, because we want to promote fishing in the area as much as we can."

“A lot of our emphasis has always been on big lake fishing — Lake Michigan. As we’re seeing our membership shift, we think there’s an opportunity to do more inland events, ice fishing events,” said Hughes. “We’re trying to help diversify, and we’re trying to help keep our association vibrant because a lot of our guys with these big boats, when they get old and they get out of it, there’s not a person to replace them.”

MCSFA president Kevin Hughes spoke on those expanding horizons prior to last year's inaugural

Last year, prizes were awarded to winners in four categories: Northern Pike, Perch, Bluegill/

The MCSFA has held annual fishing tournaments and events throughout the summer for decades.

28 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

"Overall the tournament went really well," he said. "The fishing was really good, we gave out a lot of prizes and had a bunch of sponsors. We had a lot of support from the local community."

Last year's inaugural event was held in late February. An official date on this year's event has not been set. Check www.mcsfa.org for more information.

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Fight cabin fever snowshoeing at the Ludington State Park

BY KYLE KOTECKI n VENTURE STAFF WRITER For most, a trip to a state park takes place during the summer months and is full of campfires, tents and RVs. However, the Ludington State Park is a hotbed of activity even in the dead of winter, with snowshoeing being a big draw for locals and tourists alike.

Every Saturday in January and the first three in February, park interpreter Alan Wernette will be leading free guided snowshoe hikes at 2 p.m. He will also do 6 p.m. hikes on Jan. 11 and 25 as well as Feb. 8.

The guided tours serve as a great introduction to the sport of snowshoeing and allows participants a unique way to learn about the park.

"It is for beginners," Wernette said.

"It's for anybody who is interested in trying snowshoeing, or anybody who has snowshoes and just wants to come out with a group and learn a little bit about the natural resources of the state park.

"That's what I do on my snowshoe hike: We walk a little bit, stop and I'll point out some things," he continued. "It's just a fun time. I have a lot of people who will bring their own snowshoes just because they like snowshoeing with other people and want to learn something about the park."

The guided tours take about 90 minutes and Wernette said even those who have never set foot in a snowshoe will have no trouble keeping pace.

"Snowshoeing is easy," he said. "I tell everybody that if they can walk, they can snowshoe, and that's the truth. I used to teach cross country skiing. Now that takes a lot more talent and some people just can't get the hang of it. Snowshoeing isn't like that at all. You just pick your

feet up and walk.

"You're not skiing — you're walking," Wernette continued. "... It's easy but it's great winter exercise to get around in the deep snow in the winter."

The park will also hold lantern-lit hikes on Jan. 4 and 18 and Feb. 1 and 15 from 6-8 p.m. Cross country skiers can also take advantage of the trail.

"We light the one trail — we light a loop," Wernette said. "You can ski it or you can snowshoe it. We have a bonfire out in the woods. The lanterns go all the way out in the woods to where the bonfire is, and we have hot cocoa and cider. People can stand around the bonfire and talk."

Wernette said the events are free and the park has 60 pairs of snowshoes available to lend to those who lack their own. The snowshoes are only available to be loaned out during the guided tours and lantern-lit hikes, however.

The Ludington State Park's guided snowshoe tours allow participants to both learn about the park's natural resources and get some exercise in the wintertime.

The state park will also have a class in which people can learn how to make a pair of snowshoes. The class is tentatively scheduled to be held in December, Wernette said.

The park is still open to campers in the winter months, and some brave the elements with hammock camping while others take advantage of the park's heated mini cabins. Thanks to the state park, people have plenty of reasons to get off the couch in the chilly winter months and experience the great outdoors.

For more information about the snowshoe tours or class, call the Ludington State Park at (231) 8432423.

30 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Snowshoeing is a beginner-friendly way to get out and explore the woods when the snow falls.

g k

VENTURE: FALL 2019

31

Fall colors and crisp autumn air await fly-fishermen in pursuit of fall trout and salmon runs. (Courtesy Photo)

Fall fishing lures in anglers

BY SCOTT FRALEY n VENTURE STAFF WRITER The brisk autumn chill unofficially signals the start of fall fishing season where royal coachman and Bob Wilson flies dart across pristine waterways in the timeless pursuit of trout, chinook and coho salmon.

Northern Michigan boasts an intricate network of rivers and streams stocked to the gills with beautifully speckled brook, brown and rainbow trout. Generations of anglers have trusted these northern waters for lasting memories and bountiful fishing opportunities.

We’ve highlighted a selection of these "blue ribbon" hotspots,

known to turn a bucket list expedition into a bucket load of fresh fish.

DNR fishery officials encourage anglers to take note of state and local regulations before planning a fall fishing expedition. For more information visit https://www. michigan.gov/dnr/.

BETSIE RIVER Located in Benzie County, the Betsie River is well regarded for both salmon and steelhead fishing. DNR report runs of King Salmon as early as late August continuing into early October. Fall steelhead tend to follow these early salmon runs, gobbling up

32 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

salmon eggs as they make their way up the river.

The river ranges between 30 and 60 feet wide with easy wading opportunities. The substrate is composed of sand, gravel and clay with deep pockets which fish tend to hole up in.

Anglers access the Betsie River from a number of points including those off U.S. 31, River and Grace roads. Both fish and fishermen tend to gather below Homestead Dam in Benzonia making it a productive and popular fishing hotspot.

UPPER MANISTEE RIVER (ABOVE TIPPY DAM) The Manistee River flows 190

miles through the northern Lower Peninsula and boasts one of the most productive riverine ecosystems in the Midwest.

Ample mayfly blooms along with annual fish stocking translates into well-regarded brook and brown trout fishing. Anglers also report the occasional rainbow trout, steelhead and salmon, as well as the rare tiger trout — a naturally-occurring hybrid of brown and brook trout.

Moderately flowing water combined with sand bottoms and riffles make for clear waters, but also demand common-sense for both safe and successful fishing.

DNR reports the reach of the Manistee River between

Hodenpyl Dam and Coates Highway (Red Bridge) can provide outstanding fishing opportunities for stocked trout. Every year, the Manistee River below Hodenpyl Dam is stocked with as many as 25,000 rainbow and 25,000 brown trout.

LOWER MANISTEE RIVER (BELOW TIPPY DAM) The Manistee River below Tippy Dam is one of the most popular fishing locations in the state, with migratory runs of steelhead and salmon as well as resident populations of both trout and smallmouth bass.

DNR fishery officials annually stock this river system with fry and fingerlings, including 60,000 brown trout, 84,000 steelhead and 100,000 coho salmon.

According to a DNR fishing report, “Tippy Dam provides yearround opportunities for catching resident brown trout over 20 inches in length.” Steelhead are also available year-round, while chinook and coho salmon are most prevalent in autumn.

While much of the area adjacent to the river is maintained by the forestry service, and therefore is open to public fishing, waders should remain cautious of the lower Manistee River’s fast currents and submerged logs.

The area below the dam is among the widest water in the state, varying from 200 - 300 feet in width, which makes boat angling a sensible and popular alternative.

The reach of Bear Creek from the Third Creek confluence down to Nine Mile Road is considered a “Blue Ribbon Trout Stream” by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. In addition they recommend, First, Second, Third, and Dutchman’s Creeks, the primary named tributaries including Lemon, Little Bear, Halls, Horseshoe, Beaver, Little Beaver, Cedar, Podunk and Boswell Creeks. Most of these coldwater

streams support populations of brook and brown trout, in addition to migratory steelhead, coho and chinook salmon.

INLAND LAKES Nearly every community in northern Michigan boasts their own inland lake, stocked with a diverse array of fish species. While warm water fish like sunfish and bass are harder to come by during the waning months of autumn, fisheries regularly report catches of walleye, perch, trout, pike and muskellunge.

Favorites for anglers include Lake Betsie, Lake Manistee, Bear Lake, Arcadia Lake, and Portage Lake in Onekama.

Pro tip: Try trolling with crawler trawlers for elusive late season walleye.

LAKE MICHIGAN Every fall, intrepid outdoorsmen brave the chill of Lake Michigan in pursuit of world-class fishing.

Rolling waves may present a challenge to novice anglers, but the area’s expert fishing charters know just how to tame this Great Lake.

“Within Michigan’s waters last year, nearly 80,000 people participated in more than 19,700 charter fishing trips on the Great Lakes and specific navigable waters,” said Donna Wesander, a DNR fisheries technician who tracks fishing data. “Different waters and areas of the state provide diverse fishing experiences. In 2018, charter anglers caught more than 284,000 fish: including salmon, trout, walleye, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, whitefish, cisco and lake sturgeon.”

Teams weigh their fish at the Manistee’s Lions Club Pavilion during the annual Budweiser Pro/Am fishing tournament.

More casual anglers prefer Lake Michigan’s piers, docks and shoreline, now vacated by summer beach-goers and recreational boaters.

Pro tip: Forgo the smaller spinners when in pursuit of Lake Michigan’s larger deep water species.

Numerous trout species can be found in Northern Michigan waterways including brown trout (pictured), brook, rainbow, steelhead and lake varieties.

VENTURE: FALL 2019

33

Get into the spirit with holiday events

BY COLIN MERRY n VENTURE STAFF WRITER

The Historic White Pine Village decorates for Christmas during its annual White Pine Christmas. (Courtesy Photo)

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CHRISTMAS MAGIC

CHRISTMAS IN ONEKAMA

The Village of Beulah gets in the Christmas spirit with Christmas Magic, featuring a variety of activities throughout the day.

Onekama will be hosting Christmas in Onekama on Nov. 23, kicking things off early.

Christmas Magic will be held on Dec. 14, with most of the activities taking place in downtown Beulah. Traditional activities include a breakfast with Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman, horse drawn wagon rides, caroling, craft activities for kids and the famous Christmas Magic Parade, which features lighted floats.

There also will be a decorated storefront contest, with the stores that have the most interesting light displays winning first, second and third place prizes.

For more information, including a full schedule of events, visit clcba.org.

CHRISTMAS AT WHITE PINE VILLAGE The Historic White Pine Village, in Ludington, will be celebrating Christmas on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14.

Visitors are invited to come out and celebrate the traditions of Christmas in the past, as well as the present. Activities include visiting the historic buildings, listening to Christmas music and enjoying light displays.

Snacks will be available at the town hall.

For more information, visit historicwhitepinevillage.org.

There will be a craft show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Onekama Consolidated Schools, and a Chili Cook-Off from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the school cafeteria. The community will get to taste samples and judge the best chili.

The Celebration of Lights and the lighting of Onekama's Christmas tree will be held at 6 p.m. on Nov. 24 at the Farr Center in Onekama.

HOLLY BERRY ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR The Holly Berry Arts and Crafts Fair gets area residents and visitors in the holiday spirit on the heels of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The arts and crafts fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 30 at the Frankfort High School.

Visitors will be able to peruse a wide variety of gifts, from handmade clothing, pottery, home decor and soaps, to kitchen utensils, American Girl doll clothing and various personal hygiene products. Visitors can find an assortment of locally made snacks, such as jerky, pasties and pastries.

Santa and Mrs. Claus also have a habit of showing up at Holly Berry.

Later in the day, the Frankfort

T c

The massive Christmas tree pulled by a team of horses has become a time-honored tradition of the Victorian Sleighbell Parade, and continues to be a crowd favorite year after year.

Tree Lighting will take place in Mineral Springs Park.

For more information, visit frankfort-elberta.com.

KALEVA WINTER SOLSTICE Since 1998, the Village of Kaleva, in Manistee County, has held a Winter Solstice ceremony beginning around 4 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Maple Grove Township.

The community celebrates the Finnish tradition of lighting candles to honor those who have passed and placing luminaries next to the graves. Around 1,000 luminaries are lit, and placed at gravesides by volunteers.

There is a warming station near the cemetery entrance, and following the luminary ceremony, visitors can gather around the fire and offer prayers and sing Christmas carols.

One way the public can expe-

rience the event is by driving through the cemetery lanes as night falls, to enjoy the lights.

Sparkle in the park is put on by the Bear Lake Promoters, and is free to attend.

horses, followed by luminaries, culminating in the lighting of the tree.

For more information, visit www. kalevami.com.

VICTORIAN SLEIGHBELL PARADE AND OLD CHRISTMAS WEEKEND

The celebration also will feature the Festival of Trees, performances of "The Nutcracker Ballet" at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, classic Christmas movies shown at the Vogue Theatre, art exhibits, gift boutiques, concerts, a soup cook-off, and a whole host of other activities.

SPARKLE IN THE PARK Another popular event that kicks off the holiday season early is Bear Lake's Sparkle in the Park.

This event, now in its 15th year, features around 50 lighted displays in Hopkins Park. The displays are put together by businesses, area organizations and individuals.

The display opens on at 5 a.m. on Nov. 30 with a special opening celebration featuring cookies, coffee, hot chocolate and "tailgate" chili. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on site to talk with kids as well.

Sparkle in the park is open every night from 5 to 10 p.m. from Nov. 30 to New Year's Day.

The City of Manistee goes old school with its Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend, a multi-day event packed full of activities for the whole family.

A tradition spanning 31 years, the Victorian Christmas celebration will be held from Dec. 5 through Dec. 9 at locations throughout Manistee.

The event is punctuated by the Victorian Sleighbell parade, held at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 8 in downtown Manistee, which features horse-drawn sleighs, reindeer, carolers, pipers and people dressed in Victorian-era clothing.

A massive Christmas tree is pulled down the street by draft

There also will be guided tours of the historic 1894 Lumber Baron Mansion, which now houses the Dempsey Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn and Victorian Tea Room, as we'll as tours of the Ramsdell Regional Center of the Arts.

There also will be displays of items from Manistee's Victorian era.

For more information and full schedule of events, visit manisteesleighbellparade.com.

VENTURE: FALL 2019

35

The New Year's Eve Ball Drop in downtown Ludington is a well attended celebration. (Courtesy Photo/Downtown Ludington)

New Year's Eve events bring fun to winter season

BY ASHLYN KORIENEK n VENTURE STAFF WRITER Despite the chilly weather, the winter season in northwest Michigan boasts plenty of opportunities to celebrate with family and friends.

Two local celebrations in Manistee and Mason counties invite tourists and visitors to ring in the New Year and partake in a traditional countdown to midnight.

The New Year's Eve Ball Drop in Ludington on Dec. 31 is attended by more than 10,000 people

each year; this celebration has been hosted for many years.

ing stations, music and fireworks, all enjoyed by large crowds of people.

If you cannot make it to Times Square in New York City for the ball drop, the New Year's Eve festival in downtown Ludington is second to none in this region of Michigan.

"We have a ball drop event and a street party that starts around 9 p.m. and goes until the ball drop and through the fireworks," Tooman said. "We have a live DJ on site and a beer tent, the street is closed off for four blocks."

Jen Tooman, Downtown Ludington communications and marketing manager, said the event features a beer tent, warm-

The stunning, vibrant New Year's Eve ball is six feet tall and five inches in diameter, and is the largest in size located in

36 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

northwest Michigan. The event features various safe ride programs, lodging for visitors and the following morning on Jan. 1, people are invited to take on the New Year's Resolution Run 5K. "It has become a large event that all started out as a small 'give back to the community' celebration on New Year's Eve," Tooman said. "It has become wildly popular and it's a lot of fun."

While the event is free, area businesses band together to

host plenty of fun opportunities for festival visitors. To learn more about the New Year's Eve celebration, visit the Downtown Ludington's website at www. downtownludington.org.

"We have businesses open, both restaurants and retailers," she said. "A lot of them will give away coffee and hot chocolate.

It is weather dependent on how everything is set up, but we have never canceled an event."

A new event heading into its second year in Manistee is the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts (RRCA) New Year's Eve celebration. Laura Ortiz, RRCA administrative assistant, said the theme is “This is 2020, Ramsdell Style.�

Ortiz said the idea to throw a New Year's Eve party at the Ramsdell came about when she recognized the need for a formal celebration in the Manistee area.

Last year's event was attended by around 130 people, who were all dressed to impress.

Charlie Chaplin was the special guest at the Ramsdell's New Year's Eve party last year. (Courtesy Photo/ RRCA)

"We had dancing, food, drinks and two special dances performed by the Conservatory of Dance Manistee, who then taught a group dance the Charleston," Ortiz said. "We had a special guest that evening, Charlie Chaplin. Music for the evening was provided by the Dave Greer Classic Jazz Stompers. There was a 'raid' thrown in to bring a little more excitement to the night."

The evening was topped off with a spectacular 1,000 balloon drop at midnight and a champagne toast. Tickets for the event are already on sale.

"We are going all out with a glamorous Hollywood vibe.

There will be 'movie stars' and guest singers," Ortiz said. "The ballroom will be decorated with chandeliers, crystals, and all in silver and gold."

More information on the event can be found at ramsdelltheatre. org/.

People had fun dancing at the Ramsdell's New Year's Eve party last year. This year is the second annual event held at the RRCA ballroom. (Courtesy Photo/RRCA) VENTURE: FALL 2019

37

LACA provides home for area artists

BY DAVID YARNELL n VENTURE STAFF WRITER The Ludington Area Center for the Arts has been fulfilling its mission as a home for the arts and artists for 11 years.

pen so we can help.'”

The building, located at 107 South Harrison St. in Ludington, was acquired from the Methodist Church when the congregation moved from downtown Ludington to the current location on Bryant Avenue.

“It's going great,” Skinner said.

“We have lots of great programs coming up and have made a number of changes to the facility in the last year or so. We're definitely heading in the right direction.

Ludington photographer Brad Reed has been a board member 12 of the 13 years that the organization has existed and he's been president for the past two years. As with most arts organizations, it hasn't always been smooth sailing.

“We've made a number of upgrades,” Skinner said, “including a new state of the art sound system for the performance hall.

We removed all of the church pews and carpeting and painted the wood floor it to give it a nice uniform look and got new extra wide removable chairs so we can have them in any configuration we choose.

“Two years ago we were in a world of hurt and real close to selling the building,” Reed said.

“We have really turned it around by doing some serious fundraising and an awesome job with programming.

Pentwater artist Andrew Skinner has been the operations manager for about a year.

During a Friday Night Live event in Ludington, people could help Ludington Area Center for the Arts create an abstract art piece by throwing egg shells filled with paint at a canvas. (Courtesy photo)

“We've had a dance in there, a prom, multiple concerts with standing room and seating and we even had a professional wrestling event this past spring with a 16 foot wrestling ring,” Skinner said.

“It's really amazing how far we've come in a short amount of time,” Reed continued. “Just having a great board and an amazing staff Skinner and Reed said one of is what has done it. They're doing the principal mission of the arts awesome work; it's fun working center is to bring art to everyone. with them.”

“Andy, the staff and all of the Reed said throughout its history board members are doing a the organization has had great good job of finding the artist in benefactors, “but in our time of all of us and giving people the need the past two years people confidence to take a workshop have really stepped up. I think or a class,” Reed said. “In elemenwhen they get wind of the fact tary school kids love art but as that it might go away, they think, they get older they lose that. All 'OK, we don't want that to hapof us continue to have a lot of 38 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

In June, Ludington Area Center for the Arts hosted an exhibit of local photographer Todd Reed. (Courtesy photo)

Brian Oberlin will put on a mandolin workshop on Nov. 9 at Ludington Area Center for the Arts. (Courtesy photo)

talent and passion for art and I think the art center has done a good job from kids to seniors in bringing the artist out in people.”

Skinner talked about a recent project that made everyone an artist.

Skinner said the four canvases will be on display at the center during the members only show in September.

Reed said the center takes pride in its wide variety of programming, from tap dancing and regular exhibits to the newly created pottery and jewelry making studios to a soon to be developed movie theater and the performance hall.

Skinner encourages everyone to check the events calendar at the organization's Facebook page and website that includes the lineup for small, intimate concerts held the second Wednesday each month.

Skinner said as an artist himself he enjoys bringing artists together.

“It's great working with artists who come in here,” he said. “We have our group of member artists, there are artists who are visiting the area and stop by and we arrange exhibits for artists from out of the area. It's great to get to meet them and talk with them about their art and their passion.”

The Ludington Center for the Arts has annual memberships ranging from $35 to $5,000.

Funds help cover the cost of programming and members receive special ticket pricing for events.

The official mission of the organization is to be a volunteer organization that engages, inspires and strengthens the community through arts advocacy. Its vision is “to foster a community where arts and culture bring people together, feed the creative spirit

Ludington Area Center for the Arts hosts a Thursday morning figure drawing group each week. (Courtesy photo) and fuel community growth.” The LACA board says it is committed to excellence through “events, exhibits programming, performances, arts education, fiscal responsibility, cultural collaboration, support for local artists and facility utilization and preservation.”

Reed said one of the organization's current goals is to assure

the future of the arts center by raising a $5 million endowment.

“The plan is to use the interest from that fund to support the building and operations," he said.

Find more information about Ludington Area Center for the Arts, and a full schedule of its events, at ludingtonartscenter. org.

VENTURE: FALL 2019

39

Ludington's BrrrewFest is a hit with both locals and visitors.

Ludington a beer-lover's paradise in the fall and winter

BY KYLE KOTECKI n VENTURE STAFF WRITER The craft beer industry has been on the rise for some time now, and beer enthusiasts travel far and wide to enjoy offerings from breweries around the country.

Ludington has become an attractive destination for beer-lovers due in no small part to two festivals held when tourism usually slows with the Octoberfest Music and Craft Beer festival and the Pure Ludington BrrrewFest.

Octoberfest is a two-day event, and those in attendance will have plenty of activities to keep them entertained.

"On Friday, Sept. 27, we kick things off with our pub crawl games," said Jen Tooman, communications and marketing manager of Downtown Ludington. "Usually, there are at least a dozen of our downtown bars that participate. You can play games and enter to win prizes or downtown gift certificates."

Saturday opens with an opportunity for festival-goers to win prizes as they indulge in all the chili one could ever desire.

"Saturday at noon we'll have our annual chili walk," Tooman said.

"We usually have about 36 busi-

40 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

nesses that participate in that — it's a lot of chili if you go to all of them. That goes from noon until 2 p.m., or until they run out.

"A lot of them make massive amounts, but when they're gone, they're gone," she continued.

"You can vote and enter to win prizes for that as well."

Following the chili walk, the craft beer festival is held at the James Street Plaza. It will feature live music, craft beer, food, kid-friendly activities and more.

"The general opening for the music section — the festival part — is from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m.," Tooman said. "This year, if you

preorder your tickets online, you can get in at 1 p.m. So, if you buy ahead, you'll get an extra hour at the festival. And our sponsors are Ludington Bay and Bell's, so we'll have several beers from both of them."

The Marek Music Makers and Whiskey Rebels will be onstage entertaining attendees. Those looking to order tickets online can head to www.downtownludington.org/octoberfest for more information.

Even those who don't enjoy beer can still have a great time at Octoberfest.

"For people who do not drink

beer, we have options," Tooman said. "Love Wines has various options of wine down there — that is a downtown Ludington winery. And we should have cider available this year as well.

"And it's family friendly," she continued. "We have yard games that kids and adults alike would enjoy. We have an inflatable bounce house, coloring pages and then there's live music in the tent from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. as well."

Octoberfest is an event that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, Tooman said.

"There are a lot of people who come from out of town," she said. "There are a lot of people who say it has been their fourth or fifth year coming up to do it.

And you have the locals, as well.

It really is a good mix. You'll see some friends and you'll meet some new ones."

Breweries from all over the state will have beers available at Ludington's BrrrewFest winter beer festival.

The sixth annual BrrrewFest will be held on Jan. 25. Those willing to brave the cold weather can taste craft beer from more than 20 breweries and enjoy live music.

While the middle of winter may seem like an odd time to hold a beer festival, Ludington & Scottville Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Brandy Miller said it is a great way to bring people to the area during the usual tourist off-season.

"We had a number of new breweries in the region and we thought it would be a great time to bring people back to Ludington in the winter," she said. "It's well rounded, with cider and wine as well as craft beer, but it's really about getting people back into the area and seeing what Ludington is all about in the wintertime."

The event will be held in a heated tent at Rotary Park and will run from 1-6 p.m.

The craft beer industry has been on the rise of late and Ludington has become a popular destination for enthusiasts due to its Octoberfest and BrrrewFest beer festivals.

VENTURE: FALL 2019

41

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Serving Manistee Area Since 1941

723-7206

(on the corner of US-31 & M-55)

www.linkesbodyshop.com

Ph. 231-723-9941

42 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

www.manisteetire.net

245 Arthur St. • Manistee

723-9921

FREE INSPECTIONS! No Appointment Necessary!

Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5:30 pm Complete Auto Service

Service Directory BARS & TAVERNS

Bud’s Tap Room 519 E. Dowland St., Ludington

231-845-5895 Open 7 Days a Week Daily Specials!

Good Times... Great Food...

Coldest Beer in Town!

BARS & TAVERNS

Oldest Operating Saloon in Town!

231-723-2487

723 Kosciusko • Manistee OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Sun-Th 7am-9pm Fri & Sat 7am-10pm

Famous Broasted Chicken Homemade Soups Full Menu NOW SERVING BREAKFAST

Club Keno, Pull Tabs Happy Hours & Daily Specials CHURCHES

St. Simon Catholic Community Daily Mass 8:30 am Fri. Communion Service 8:30 am Sat. 5:30 pm Sundays 8:30 am & 10:30 am 702 E. Bryant Rd. • Ludington

843-8606

We invite you to worship with us.

Pastor, Fr. Wayne B. Wheeler, Jr. www.stsimonchurch.com

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Service Directory DINING

For Over 46 Years!

DINING Large Selection of Michigan Craft Beers • Fresh Full Menu - Take Out • Michigan Products • Daily Lunch Specials • Homemade Soups • Gift Certificates Available Ask us about booking your private party.

We have a fireplace & wireless internet 399 River St. • Manistee

398-9174 www.ramsdellinn.com

44 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

Service Directory INSURANCE AGENCIES

Putting you first made us #1 Making you our #1 priority is what’s made State Farm® #1* Mary Sturdevant Ins Agcy Inc in auto insurance. I’m here to listen to your needs and to Mary Sturdevant, Agent help life go right.

306 Parkdale Ave Manistee, MI 49660 CALL ME TODAY. Bus: 231-723-9905

*Based on written premium as reported

by SNL Financial 2014.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL 1601917

State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Dallas, TX

LODGES/ ORGANIZATIONS

V.F.W.

Knights of Columbus Council #853

Meets 2nd & 4th Monday at 7 pm St. Joseph Parish Center

New Members Always Welcome For information call 723-2354 or 510-3630

Manistee Lodge No. 250 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks 432 River St. • Manistee

231-723-2060

Instituted June 20, 1893

Friday Fish Fry

New Members Always Welcome!

Walsh Post #4499

Accepting New Memberships HALL RENTAL AVAILABLE!

1211 28th St. • Manistee

723-9220

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Service Directory SENIOR CENTER Senior Citizens of today are just as vibrant, mobile, engaged and seeking fellowship as their younger counterparts.

Aging, it’s everyone’s future.

Stay active • Stay informed • Stay involved

Serving Manistee County • 457 River St., Manistee • 231-723-6477

STORAGE

A Storage Inn

Call us for your snowplowing needs this winter.

74 Arthur St. • Manistee

723-9362 Paul Adamski, Owner

VETERINARIANS

Dr. Liz Kaufman, DVM 11169 N. M37 • Irons

231-862-3113 www.ironsanimalhospital.com “Your Partner For Healthy Pets”

46 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE

The Historic Vogue Theatre

Open Seven Days a Week • First-run Movies Daily

2

$

Classic Films

Wednesday mornings at 10:00am

Movies 25¢ Family Saturday mornings at 10am Bringing the Best & Biggest Movies to Manistee

Historic Art-Deco Building Lowest Prices in the Area!

Cutting-Edge All-Digital Picture & Full Surround Sound

383 River St, Downtown Manistee voguetheatremanistee.org n 231-222-5199 VENTURE: FALL 2019

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48 MANISTEE NEWS ADVOCATE