The Guide - August/September 2015

By Scott Nunn partner Not to spoil anything for you, but in the pages to follow you will again see Northeast Michigan’s most comprehensive calendar of events. A listing this complete wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for the folks at the

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chambers and visitor’s bureaus that make this information available and the groups, businesses, and organizations that put on these events.

Following the calendar, you will see a few pieces about the brain behind The Guide’s brawn. Jerry Nunn, my father and business partner, at the age of 55 lost his battle to cancer on July 29, 2015. His memorial, a celebration of his life, was yet again another humbling experience for the family as we heard from family, friends, and acquaintances across our 14 counties.

It is important to The Guide, that we take a moment to remember Jerry, share a story if you have one, and celebrate his life and passion. Promote the very best Northeast Michigan has to offer.

The summer is drawing to a close, but it needs not be something mourned, rather yet

another reason to celebrate. We have made it through the chaos that summer brings as people storm our often peaceful cities, towns and villages and turn to us to entertain them.

This isn’t to say we need to crawl back into the den. There is plenty to do and see in the months ahead.

August is in full swing for most of the County Fairs, and is also an excellent opportunity to get those last minute produce needs at the Farmer’s Markets to ready yourself for the harvest season.

There is the Corvette Crossroads, Annual Arts & Crafts Show, and the Rendezvous in Mackinaw City.

Mackinaw not your style?

How ‘bout jammin to some blues at the Blues by the Bay Festival in East Tawas?

September brings a complete new cycle of events from the Nautical City Festival in Rogers

GUIDEFEATURES 12 14 16 18 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36

Northeast Michigan loses its loudest VOICE Nunn Better Burnin’ Rubber Blues by the Bay Big Charity Island Students study Microplastics Charting their own Course Connecting Prehistoric Fish to the Present NCH: A Monument to Michigan’s Lumber History NCH: Harrisville’s Hall of Famer Mackinaw City Getaway Marianne’s Hamburger Challenge: The Grand Finale

This issue’s cover photo was taken by Dee Gray. Avid photographer and Alcona County resident, Dee enjoys showcasing the beauty of all the seasons. You can contact Dee on her website at www.NorthernLivingPhotography.com or on Facebook at Northern Living Photography.

City, Harmony Weekend in Harrisville, the Labor Day Bridge Walk in Mackinaw, to the Firemen’s Festival in Roscommon, Thunder on the Strip in Gladwin and Paul Bunyan Days in Oscoda.

These are just a few events from our nine page Calendar of Events.

If none of that is enough to get you excited then maybe the soon approaching crisp autumn air and brilliant fall colors will get your blood pumping. There are a few fall color tour driving tips tucked into this issue as well.

If nothing else, pick up the phone or drop us a line and we will find something for you that is sure to please.

August/September 2015 Volume VI, Issue 6 Published by: Info Northeast Publisher: Scott Nunn Editor: Mark Meyer

Advertising manager and design: Scott Nunn (989) 245-7140 snunn@infonortheast.com

Contributing writers: Rob Burg, Denise Cline, Meaghan Gass, Keith Gave, Brad Jensen, Marianne Kuzimski, Dennis Mansfield, Scott Nunn, Brandon Schroeder, Deanna Staton Contributing photographers: Rob Burg, Wendy Sue Colvin, Dee Gray, Marianne Kuzimski, Scott Nunn

The Guide is published 8 times annually. Distributed through all M-DOT Welcome Centers, Chambers of Commerce and over 300 fine businesses across Northeast Michigan. Covering the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Cheboygan, Crawford, Gladwin, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Roscommon and the City of St. Ignace

The Guide • August/September 2015

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Neighborhood Market Opening, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Isabella’s Copper Pot in Gaylord. Showcasing growing selection of organic bulk foods, tea, spices and fresh, local produce. Guests will be treated to amazing food, prizes and recipes. Info: (989) 731-9700 or www.GaylordChamber.com 25th Annual Long Lake Improvement Association Family Fishing Derby, with over cash prizes, youths under 15 will receive a prize. Starts at 7 a.m. and goes to 3 p.m. at Dodge Marine and Storage in Alpena.

Cost is $15 for membership fee per household.

All proceeds benefit Long Lake Improvement Association projects. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com 26th Annual Higgins Lake Awareness Day, at the MacMullan Center on Higgins Lake, enjoy an afternoon reception from 3 to 5 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and adult beverages, a live auction, a raffle drawing for $10,000 in cash prizes. Cost is $100 admission for two. Info: (989) 275-8760 or www.HLRCC.com 40 and 8 Bingo, held at the American Legion Post in Oscoda, Sundays at noon.

Kitchen will be open. Info: (989) 739-7322 or www.OscodaChamber.com Alpena Farmer’s Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday.

Offers locally grown products, baked goods, plants, maple syrup, honey, grass fed beef, homemade sausage and more. Info: (989) 2559372 or www.VisitAlpena.com

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Author Events at Saturn Booksellers in Gaylord, dates throughout the month with various authors. Info: (989) 732-8899 or www.SaturnBooksellers.com Bayside Music Festival, at St. Ignace Public Marina. Starting at 4 p.m. get ready to listen or dance downtown with a beer and wine tent, food concession and more, fireworks display at dusk. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Bump and Run, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Montmorency County Fair in Atlanta. Info: (989) 785-3400 or www.

AtlantaMichiganChamber.com Canvas Collage, a hands-on mixed media class for kids with the fun use of shapes, colors and beads. From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Art in the Loft in Alpena, with other events running throughout the month. Info: (989) 356-4877 Friends of Alpena Farmer’s Market Guest Chef Presentation, Chef Eric Peterson will teach how to prepare seasonal produce in a healthy way. From 9 a.m. to noon behind City Hall. Check website for other guest chef presentations. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Icebreaker Mackinac celebrates Coast Guard Day, celebrate the United States Coast Guard on the Mackinaw in Mackinaw City. Featuring hot dog roast, kid’s events with nautical themed face-painting and interactive activities such as knot-tying and heaving-line throw, presentations, local author and more.

Info: (231) 436-9825 or www.TheMackinaw.org

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Jewelry 101, join artist Katherine Schmidt in creating earrings, necklace and bracelet, working with a variety of materials. Located at Art in the Loft in Alpena, with other events running throughout the month. Cost is $32/person. Info: (989) 3564877 or www.VisitAlpena.com Lewiston Farmer’s Market, Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. downtown. Info: (989) 858-6746 or www.

LewistonChamber.com Live Entertainment on the Patio, live entertainment at the Duck Blind Grille Patio at the Otsego Club in Gaylord, every Thursday and Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., enjoy happy hour specials, spectacular views and a game of corn hole. Info: (989) 732-5181 or www.OtsegoClub.com Lumberman’s Monument Guided Nature Hike, Every Saturday through August 16th, meet by the flag pole by the visitor’s center at 11 a.m. for a guided nature hike. Cost is free, donations accepted in the visitor’s center. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.

OscodaChamber.com Music on Mullet, Saturdays through the end of August on Mullet Lake near Cheboygan from 1 to 4 p.m. at the sand bar near the mouth of the Cheboygan River Info: (238) 268-3377 or www.MulletLakeMarina.com Roscommon Village Farm Market, Open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., fruits, vegetables, custom artwork, handcrafted jewelry, goat milk products, homemade soaps, quilts, herbs, natural bug sprays and much more. Info: (989) 275-8010 or www.HLRCC.com

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

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Saturday Night Live, Family fun Saturday nights through August in downtown St. Ignace from 7 to 10 p.m. including outdoor vendors and a fireworks display at dusk. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Spectacular Fireworks, Every Saturday from July 4th to September 12, starting at dusk, watch awesome fireworks explode over Moran Bay. Watch from many vantage points along downtown St. Ignace. Info: (906) 6438717 or www.SaintIgnace.org SUP Yoga Burt Lake, at DeVoe beach in Indian River at 8 a.m. Cost is $15 with your board and $30 with a rental board, preregister at Brass Wind Landing. Info: (989) 238-4348 or www.ArtsAndAdventure.com Tawas Farmers Market, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gateway Park. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Tawas Uncork’d and Untap’d Wine, Ale and Food Festival, from 12:30 to 6 p.m. at Harbor Park. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.

Tawas.com True North Radio Network Summer Concert Series, Saturdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bay View Park Band Shell in Alpena.

Cost is free, bring chairs or blankets. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com West Branch Farmer’s Market, Downtown from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturdays through October. Info: (989) 345-

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0500 or www.WBACC.com Yoga on the Courthouse Lawn, free community yoga classes from 10 to 11 a.m. The first Saturday of every month, weather permitting at the farmer’s market courthouse lawn in Gaylord. Info: (313) 530-2028 or www.

GaylordChamber.com 3rd Annual Alpena Bike Fest, a fun filled weekend of camping, biker games, bands, vendors, bon fire, beer tent, two bands every night. Non-profit, proceeds go to Friendship Room and Toys for Kids.

Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.Facebook.com/ AlpenasBikeNight MINI on the Mack, Join MINI motorists from all over the country as they attempt to break the Guinness Book World Record for the Largest Parade of MINI Cars on the Mackinac Bridge! We need 1451+ MINIs to break the record. Parade starts in Mackinaw City and ends with a day of celebrating in St. Ignace and fireworks over Moran Bay. Info: (888) 615-6487 or www.MiniOnTheMack.com Prince of Peace Parish 2nd Annual Festival, Bingo, kid’s game tent, beer tent, softball tournament, food and refreshments available, car show, euchre tournament, Steve Armstrong and the 25 cent beer band playing at 8 p.m. live bands, magic show and much, much, more. In Linwood on Center Street. Prices vary Info: (989) 697-4443 or www.AuGresChamber.org Rendezvous in Mackinaw, July 29th to August 2nd, experience 18th and 19th century life in Native American and civilian encampment, 18th century trade

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

fair, musket firing, cooking, demonstrations and more. Event is held at the Conkling Heritage Park. Event is free. See website for specific times of events. Info: (800) 666-0160 or www.

MackinawCity.com Schoolhouse Rock Live, follows Tom, a nerve-wracked school teacher who is nervous about his first day of teaching. He tries to relax by watching TV when various characters representing facets of his personality emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and music, through such songs as “Just A Bill,” “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly,” and “Conjunction Junction.”

At the Thunder Bay Theater in Alpena from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Info: (989) 354-2267 Tawas Bay Fine Arts Festival, with graphic arts, oil and acrylic painting, pottery, sculpture, wood carving, jewelry, 3-dimensional painting, juried fine arts show and sale with awards, music, children’s art tent, sandcastle building on the beach. Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tawas City Park. Info: (989) 362-5613 or www.

TawasBayArtGallery.com Timberfest, in Lewiston, with a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Street Art on Friday, art project stations, acrylic painting, chalk art, folk crafts and much more.

Cost is free, donations welcome. Info: (989) 7862293 or www.LewistonChamber.com

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Dinosaur Gardens 80th Anniversary, Stroll next to over 26 exhibits of life-sized replicas of dinosaurs, weekly drawings for a plush animal each time kids walk through. Located on U.S. 23 in Ossineke. Info: (989) 471-5477 or www.

DinosaurGardensLLC.com Movies by the Bay, at the American Legion Park in St. Ignace. Outdoor movies every Sunday through September 6th starting around 10 p.m. Refreshments available on site, free popcorn. Bring blankets and chairs for a fun-filled evening with the kids. Cost is free.

Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Ghost Walk, Walk along the hub of early St. Ignace transportation-ships and railroads….pilings and docks hide mysteries and stories by Woodsmoke Jim and River Lark Mary. Meet your hosts at 9 p.m. at the Chief Wawatam Park. Cost is $10/person or $20/ family, all ages welcome. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Native Cultural Teachings, A native elder will be presenting cultural teachings every Monday and Tuesday in July and August from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The gatherings will take place on the museum grounds in St. Ignace at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture. Learn about life as it was hundreds of years ago and life today for Native Americans. Cost is free. Info: (906) 643-6076 or www.SaintIgnace.org SAL Hamburgers, American Legion Post, Mondays in Oscoda from 5 to 7 p.m. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.OscodaChamber.com Tawas Community Concert Band Series, Mondays at 7 p.m. at the East

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Open 7 days a week Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Specials Drive ru Free WiFi! (989) 389-3731 1965 N. St. Helen Rd. St. Helen, MI www.

eHenHouseRestaurant.com The Guide • August/September 2015

Tawas Day Use Park, bring a blanket or lawn chair. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Voices in the Mist-Walking Tour, join us every Monday and Tuesday evening in July and August for a guided walking tour along the Huron boardwalk with Woodsmoke Jim and River Lark Mary. They will regale you with stories, legends and mysteries surrounding the St. Ignace area. Tours being at Museum of Ojibwa Culture and last about 1 ½ hours, rain or shine. Cost is free. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org 46th Annual Mackinaw City Antique Show, Area antique shops display and sell antiques at Mackinaw City High School from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., refreshments and lunch available. Info: (231) 436-5504 or www.

MackinawCity.com Library Knitters, Don’t knit? That’s okay, bring any handiwork and join the fun at the Robert J. Parks Library in Oscoda from 10 a.m. to noon. Check website for times and dates throughout August. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.OscodaChamber.com Lumberman’s Monument Kids Day, Make a bear claw necklace to take home.

Starts at 1 p.m. Registration is required by 7/21, space is limited. Cost is free, donations are appreciated. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.

OscodaChamber.com Rogers City-City Band Concert, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the band shell. Info: (989) 734-2535 or www.RogersCityAreaChamber.com Self-Defense and Karate Classes, at the CRAF Center in Roscommon Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $8.25 per class. Info:

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(989) 821-4419 or www.HLRCC.com Tuesday Night Live Street Dance, downtown every Tuesday through midAugust from 7 to 9 p.m. for an old fashioned block party. Bring lawn chairs and set up right on Newman Street to listen to music and dance.

Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Wine and Beer Tasting, Featuring Michigan, domestic and international wine and beer, hors d’oeuvres and live music every Tuesday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. in July and August at The Pavilion in St. Ignace. Cost is $8 for 6 tastings and hors d’oeuvres. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Transfiguration Nature Camp, on M-68 between Indian River and Alanson. Students aged 6-12 will explore various habitats, including deciduous forests and mixed forests, projects, and hands-on activities. Cost is $60 per student per week, scholarships available. Info: (989) 238-2188 or www.IRChamber.com Nautical Festival, An actionpacked event in Rogers City.

Includes pet show, kiddie parade, teen pageant, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Bunco tournament, monster truck ride, antique tractor and farm implement show and more. Info: (989) 734-4656 or www.

RogersCityAreaChamber.com Coffee and Conversation with Veterans, at the Otsego County Regional Airport in Gaylord from 0900 hours to 1000 hours (9 to 10 a.m.), the first Wednesday of each month to provide a rally point for all veterans to come and socialize over

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complementary coffee and donuts, each month there will be a surprise guest coffee drinker.

No formats, no presentations, no agendas, just coffee and conversation. Info: (989) 732-4000 or www.GaylordChamber.com.

Farmer’s Market at Lakeland Recreation, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Houghton Lake. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.VisitHoughtonLake. com Locals on the Bay, Wednesdays through August 26, Musical entertainment provided by area St. Ignace residents. Starting at 7 p.m. spend a lovely evening at the public marina, enjoy the talented musicians and the awesome views of Moran Bay. Cost is free. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org Military Support Reception, The Alpena Chamber of Commerce is hosting a reception of units who are in town training at the C.R.T.C. at the Sanctuary Inn in Alpena.

The event is open to the public, hors d’oeuvres provided. Cost is $10/person. Info: (989) 3544181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Oscoda Farm Market, Wednesdays throughout the summer and fall from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the AuSable Shoreline Park in Oscoda Offers fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, plants, honey and maple syrup products and baked goods. E.B.T. /S.N.A.P. friendly. Info: (989) 362-3531 or www.

OscodaChamber.com Summertime Entertainment, Wednesdays in the park music series at the small pavilion at the City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

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Tai Chi Classes for Arthritis, Wednesdays at the CRAF center in Roscommon starting at 9:45 a.m. Info: (989) 821-4419 or www.HLRCC.com The Gazebo, by the Roscommon Metropolitan Recreation Authority, local talents and treasures are all from the Roscommon and local commuting areas.

Concerts are at 7 p.m. at the CRAF center lawn, refreshments available, concerts are free to the public. Info: (989) 275-4975 or www.HLRCC. com Concert on the Beach, bring a blanket or lawn chair, pop and popcorn available to purchase. Every Thursday, 7 p.m. at Oscoda Township Beach. Info: (989) 739-0900 or www.

Oscoda.com Farmer’s Market, Thursday evenings through September, from 4 to 7 p.m. (See website for Labor Day dates/times) at the St. Ignace Marina. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.

SaintIgnace.org Open Mic Night, Thursdays starting at 10 p.m. at Mary’s Tavern in Gaylord. Info: (989) 705-7740 or www.GaylordChamber.com Summer Concert Series, at the bandstand at The Depot in Standish from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. through August 20. Bring lawn chairs, refreshments available, 50/50 raffles.

Info: (989) 718-3021 or www.StandishDepot. org Sunset Paddle Burt Lake Meet Up, Thursdays with Brass Wind Landing’s Sheree Lincoln, 8:30 p.m. at DeVoe beach. Info: (989) 238-4348 or on Facebook

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Women’s Tee Party at Otsego Club and Resort in Gaylord, Starting at 2 p.m., enjoy a terrific afternoon of golf with a complementary golf clinic. P.G.A. Mark Hogan and Executive Chef Tim Ruehs will be hosting the afternoon and playing along with the group. Enjoy an English Tea Party menu with accompaniments prepared by Tim. Cost is $80.00/person, beverages, taxes and gratuities not included, call for reservations Info: (989) 732-5181 or www.OtsegoClub.com Sidewalk Sales, at various merchants in downtown East Tawas. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com St. Helen ORV Jamboree, including events such as, mud bog,

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While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

sand run, O.R.V. pull, silent auction, obstacle course, vendor displays, scenic rides and more.

Info: (989) 389-3725 or www.ORVJamboree.org 30th Annual Big Boy Car Show and Sweetheart Cruise, public welcome to check out vintage, muscle and classic cars, street rods, music, kid’s activities, outdoor concession, parade and more. Starts at 3 p.m. at Big Boy in Alpena. Info: (800) 4-Alpena or www.

VisitAlpena.com Au Gres Farmer’s Market, Every Friday through September 25, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the former Water Funland property on U.S. 23. Info: (989) 876-8811 or www.

AuGresChamber.org Dining and Dancing at Knoll View Golf Course, Every Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. with entertainers performing a variety of music.

Info: (989) 876-4653 or www.GolfKnollView. com Downtown Street Performers, Every Friday at various locations in downtown Alpena. Info: (800)-4-Alpena or www.

VisitAlpena.com Fabulous Fridays, Downtown West Branch, Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. A free and family friendly event Friday evenings throughout the summer. Info: (989) 345-5226 or www.WestBranchEvents.com

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Free Concert at the Pavilion on Court Street in Gaylord, Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m., cost is free, bring a blanket or a lawn chair.

Info: (989) 732-4000 or www.GaylordChamber. com Friday Night at the Museums, Fridays through August at 6 p.m. in St. Ignace, Grandmother Moon drummers and singers will perform. A Native elder will present cultural teachings, children will be entertained with a craft. Info: (906) 643-6627 or www.SaintIgnace. org Friday Night Fish Fry, Every Friday at the V.F.W. hall from 5 to 7 p.m. Cost is $7.50 to $10.50. Free event. Info: (989) 739-3128 or www.Osocda.com Lighted Boat Parade, DeVoe beach on the Indian River. Parade will start at dusk at DeVoe beach and continue to I-75 bridge and return, find a spot on the river and enjoy the parade. Rain date is Saturday August 8th. Info: (810) 845-3620 or www.IRChamber.com Live Music at Mary’s Tavern, Fridays this summer from 7 to 9 p.m. Info: 705-7740 or www.GaylordChamber.com 32nd Annual Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Show, with daily demonstrations, exhibits, flea market, live music, food and primitive camping. Located at the Alpena Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Club, gates open at 9 a.m. Cost is $5/person, under 12 free. Info: (989) 354-0802 or www.

AlpenaAntiqueTractor.com 6th Annual Tractor and Engine Show at Wellington Farm Park, come to Grayling and see over 100 old tractors,

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vintage farm machines, a sawmill from the 19th century, threshing, silo filing and a big machinery parade every afternoon. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org International Iron Worker’s Festival, see friendly competition between iron workers from the United States and Canada held at Mackinaw City High School.

Events include knot tying, rod tying, rivet toss, spud throw, column climb and the world championship column club. Free ride in an aerial lift, kid’s activities. Cost is free. Info: (906) 360-1758 or www.IronFest.com Sand Lake Festival, barstool and lawn tractor races, beer tent, little Las Vegas, parade, food, arts and crafts show, games and more. Info (989) 469-2014 or www.

SandLakeHeightsMi.com W.M.J. Lightning Class North American Championship Sailing Regatta, Tawas. Info: (989) 362-3137 or www.2015WJM.com 38th Annual Wooden Boat Show and Festival of Arts, St. Ignace at the Hessel Marina from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vessels include dinghies, rowboats, canoes, launches, sailboats, utilities, runabouts, large cruisers, racers and classic glass. Info: (906) 484-2821 or www.

SaintIgnace.org 6th Annual ACT NOW Golf Outing, at the Redwood Golf Course in Roscommon , cost is $50/person, fee includes four person golf scramble, golf cart, prizes, hot dogs on the turn and a burger/chicken wrap dinner afterwards.

Info: (989) 821-5207 ext. 292 or www.HLRCC. com

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The Guide • August/September 2015

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Farmer’s Market, at the Estey Moose I Lodge from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Estey Road. Info: (989) 404-0009 or www.

PinconningLinwood.com W Friends of Alpena County Farmers’ I Market 8th Annual Antiques and Rummage Sale Day, antiques and rummage sale items around the already popular Farmers M Market. Cost is free. Info: (989) 358-1284 or a www.VisitAlpena.com d Top O Michigan Marathon Nationals d Outboard Racing, Starts at DeVoe beach v in Indian River from noon to 2 p.m., Indian and t Cheboygan rivers are closed during that time. w Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com d V-J Day Celebration, Hillman. Info: (989) n 742-3739 or www.HillmanMichigan.org f a Cheboygan County Fair, S featuring carnival, battle of the o bands, truck and tractor pull, mud runs, bump a and runs, 4-H events, exhibits, and more. Info: I (231) 627-7051 or www.CheboyganCountyFair. com Cheboygan County Fair, Rides t open daily at 1 p.m. starting H on August 10th. Grand Stand events include, a p rodeo, tractor pulls, mud bogs and more. Info: p (231) 627-7051 or www.CheboyganFair.com F S 141st Alpena County Fair, Livestock exhibits and auctions, 1 carnival, grandstand concerts and events, stilt 3 walker, princess tea party and much more. Info: (989) 340-1466 or www.AlpenaCountyFair.com 4th Annual Antiques on the Bay, t at the Shoreline Park in Tawas City. A

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Info: (989) 362-5337 or www.Tawas.com

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Optimist Frog Jumping and Seed Spitting, event is held during the West Branch Victorian Art Fair at Iron’s Park.

Info: (989) 942-6608 or www.WBACC.com River Drive Living History Encampment, Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda. Meet the river drivers, also known as river hogs, who drove the logs down the AuSable River during the annual log drive. They’ll have their camp set up for you to visit and talk to them to learn how they moved the logs or visit them down on the Wanigan where they’ll talk about supplying the river drive and feeding the river hogs. On Saturday night join them at 8 p.m. around the campfire for tall tales and stories about past river drives and logging in Northern Michigan. Camp open Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday camp is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is free, donations appreciated and accepted in the visitor’s center.

Info: (989) 362 8941 or www.Oscoda.com Victorian Art Fair, Over 250 Arts & Crafts Exhibits. Free games for the kids, food concessions. No Pets! Limited Handicapped Parking. FREE Shuttle Service provided between Irons Park, Plaza East, K-Mart parking lot, Downtown West Branch, and in Front of Fourth Street Gift Shop & Gallery.

Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No admission fee. Info: (989) 345-3856 or www.VictorianArtFair.com VFW Country Breakfast, the second Sunday of every month from 8 a.m. to noon, at the post home in Roscommon.

Adults $7, Children (10 and under) $4. Menu

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includes eggs, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, pancakes, French toast, sausage, toast coffee, tea and juice. Info: (989) 275-4136 or www.

HLRCC.com Ladies Night Out-Tennis, at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. Clinic is taught

by Dave Johnson, Certified instructor with the Professional Tennis Registry. Experience the fun of being on court and learning the game of a lifetime. Cost: $20 Time: 5:30 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Smokey’s Birthday Party, Smokey turns 71 this year. Head out to Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda, to celebrate, play games and have refreshments, starts at 1 p.m. Cost is free, and donations are appreciated and accepted in the visitor’s center.

Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.Oscoda.com Tuesdays in the Park, 7 to 9 p.m. in Gladwin City Park Amphitheatre.

Every Tuesday through August 25th. Cost is $5/person. Info: (989) 426-5451 or www.

GladwinCountyChamber.com Lights Out and The Perseids Picnic, Every year in August the richest parts of the Milky Way arcs over Northern Michigan, as though borne along by the mighty hero, Perseus. To provide for optimal viewing of the meteor showers, the local communities are challenged to turn off their lights from 10:30 to 11:30 p.m. Bring along a picnic or order from Etta’s food truck.

Program starts at 9 p.m. Info: (231) 348-1704 or www.MiDarkSkyPark.org 27th Annual Chamber Golf Outing at Gaylord Country Club, Shotgun

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start at 10 a.m., lunch on the course on in the club house, dinner following the event, call for pricing. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.

GaylordChamber.com Oscoda Farmer’s Market, at the Shoreline Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturdays through mid- October. Info: (989) 739-0900 or www.Oscoda.com Urinetown, In a Gothamlike city a terrible water shortage caused by a 20-year drought has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides he’s had enough, and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom!

Presented with permission of Music Theatre International at the Thunder Bay Theatre in Alpena. Info: 989-354-2267 or www.

VisitAlpena.com Beat the Pro; Meet the BreweryHuron Distributors, Every Thursday at Treetops Resort in Gaylord test yours skills against the pros for prizes with each week featuring a different brewery. 7 to 11 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Become a Junior Forest Ranger, Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Use this opportunity to get involved with the forest in many fun and exciting ways! Let us help you earn your Junior Forest Ranger badge and help Smokey prevent wildfires! Recommended for ages 6-12, registration required by 8/1. Cost is free,

donations are appreciated and accepted in the visitor’s center. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.

Oscoda.com Live Music – The Cookies, Live music and dancing at Hunter’s Grille in Treetops Resort in Gaylord from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Summer Concert Series at Festival Square, Live music Thursdays in downtown Cheboygan from 7 to 8 p.m. Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.Cheboygan.com Friday Fish Fry, Knights of Columbus in Gladwin, second Friday of each month from 4 to 7 p.m. Info: (989) 426-5451 or www.GladwinCountyChamber.com Live Music- Charlie Reager, Live music and dancing at Hunter’s Grille at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, 8 to 11 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Live Music-The Sleeping Gypsies, Live music and dancing at Hunter’s Grille at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Rockin’ at the River, Enjoy the contemporary hits of Andrew Kruske from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Riverwalk Palace in Gladwin. Info: (989) 426-5451 or www.

GladwinCountyChamber.com Tee to Table at the Otsego Club and Resort, Join P.G.A. Professional Mark Hogan for a golf clinic and enjoy a signature specialty prepared by Executive Chef Tim Ruehs.

Cost is $90.00/person. Available dates are August 14, 28 and September 11. Info: (989) 732-5181 or www.OtsegoClub.com

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Northeast Michigan

Optimist Clubs Join one

Start one

Alpena • Rogers City St. Helen • West Branch

Chuck Snyder

Lieutenant Governor, Zone 1

(989) 942-6608 w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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Gold Wing Road Riders Midnight Ride, Starting and Grand Rapids and going to St. Ignace ride throughout the night, parade on Saturday.

The annual ride raises money for the Juvenile Diabetes research fund. Info: (800) 970-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.Org Linwood Pickle Festival, Golf scramble, beer tent, bike show, live music, midway, parade, 5k run/walk, and more. Info: www.

LinwoodPickleFestival.org 11th Annual Churchill Classic Trail Run, starts at the North Central State Trailhead. Info: (231) 627-7111 or www.

CNBIsMyBank.com 2nd Annual Stoneport 5k Quarry Run/Walk, Experience a unique 5K course that encompasses a 60 year-old limestone quarry on the scenic shores of Lake Huron, all proceeds benefiting The Cancer Center at Alpena Regional Medical Center.

Participants will compete on a course that encompasses the 60 year old mining operation and its serene landscape, which is located on the pristine shores of Lake Huron. Info: (800)-4-Alpena or www.VisitAlpena.com 7TH Annual Mount Hope Church Classic Car, Truck and Bike Show, to benefit the Otsego county food pantry of Gaylord. Enjoy a day of games for kids and adults, car themed movie and popcorn, bounce house, sketch artist, raffles, music, face painting, kid’s workshop by Home Depot, food and refreshments available. Info: (989) 3900779 or www.GaylordChurch.com Gladwin Farmer’s Market, North State Street from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturdays through mid-October, with fresh vegetables and baked goods. Info: (989) 4264133 or www.Gladwin.org Music at Ali’s UpNorth, Enjoy live music and food specials right on U.S. 23 in Au Gres. Check website for various times and dates. Info: (989) 876-7022 or www.

AuGresChamber.org Walk Me Home 5k Walk/Run, the signature fund-raising and awareness event in Alpena for foster care in America.

Support the life changing programs and activities of foster care associations like Child & Family Services of Northeast Michigan. Cost is: $15.00; kids under 12 Free. Info: (989) 356-4567 or www.FirstGiving.com

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Welcome to the West, at Pointer Hill Saddlery in West Branch. Enjoy at tent sale, giveaways, fashion show, presentations and family friendly activities. Info: (989) 3455055 or www.WBACC.com Wurtsmith Air Museum Fly In, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Oscoda. Great Lakes Signal Aces’ Display, radio control plane show and demonstration and pancake breakfast. Info: (989) 747-0452 or www.WurtsmithAirMuseum.org Annual Battle for the Paddle Golf Challenge and Scholarship Fundraiser, Get in on this four-person scramble. 18 holes with cart, followed by a savory luncheon at the pavilion, complete with prizes, cash prizes, raffles, and an optional skins game for individuals or teams. Many fine prizes given away and raffled off, including dinners for two, hotel or bed & breakfast stays, and so much more. Entry forms at the Oscoda Chamber of Commerce. Info: (989) 739-7322 or www.

Oscoda.com Backyard B.B.Q. Cook Off, at Richfield Township Park in St. Helen, includes local celebrity judges, trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Cook’s Choice, judging starts at 1 p.m., $25 entry fee includes ribs. Info: (989) 745-8355 or www.SaintHelenChamber.net Farm2Fork-My Green Garden, a unique culinary series at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, featuring locally grown and prepared dishes and the hands that brought them from seed to the table. Cost for the 4-course meal and live music is $99/person, includes tax and gratuity. Time is 5 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Topinabee Chicken Barbeque, Enjoy delicious B.B.Q. chicken and all the fixins at the Annual pavilion in Topinabee. Info: (231) 238-9325 or www.IRChamber.com St. Ignace History Week, Featuring history-related and genealogy activities at Fort de Buade and the Museum of Ojibwa Culture. Info: (906) 6436627 or www.SaintIgnace.org Kid’s Day Native American Dream Catchers, Make dream catchers at our Native American Craft program. Learn about the history and symbolism of these crafts. At Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda.

Recommended for ages 8-14, registration is required by 8/4, space is limited. Cost is free, donations are appreciated. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.Oscoda.com

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35th Annual Ogemaw County Fair, come out for exhibits, a working hands-on antique village, grand stand events, carnival rides and more. All in a tree and flower covered, park-like setting.

Cost varies depending on event. Info: (989) 3455393 or OgemawCountyFair.com Michigan Mud Jam; Trucks Gone Wild, at the Iosco County Fair Grounds in Hale. Friday pits open at 9 a.m., Team Freestyle at 5 p.m., tug-of-war at dark in the grandstands. Sunday pits open at 9 a.m., open bogging all day, tug-of-war at dark.

Camping available. Cost varies depending on number of days attending. Info: (989) 254-2604 or www.MichiganMudJam.com Burt Lake Chicken Barbeque, chicken, corn, rolls and homemade desserts. Info: (231) 238-9324 or www.

IRChamber.com Free Indian Pow-Wow, at Zubler’s Indian Craft Shop in Houghton Lake each Thursday in August, 1 to 4 p.m. Performers on the hour from Chippewa Reservation with traditional outfits, dances, songs and drumming. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.

VisitHoughtonLake.com Geocaching, Do you like treasure hunts? Learn all about the fun sport of geocaching. There are geocaches hidden all over the world. During this program you will learn about using a GPS and a compass to find geocaches hidden at Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda. Starts at 1 p.m. Cost is free, donations are appreciated. Info: (989) 362-8961 or www.

Oscoda.com Mikenauck Gem and Rock Club, the third Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the CRAF center in Roscommon. Info: (989) 275-4975 or www.

AmFed.org Paint and Sip Party, Enjoy an evening outside with some friends while you sip a little wine and learn to paint. $40 includes supplies, beverage and take home your work of art. Info: (866) or www.Treetops. com Third Thursday Trestle Park Concert, live music in Prudenville. Event is free of charge. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.

VisitHoughtonLake.com All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner and Bake Sale, Spaghetti, salad, homemade bread, garlic toast, dessert and beverage. Suggested Donation of $7/person,

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$16/ family (Parents and children under 18 years old) and children under 5, free. Sponsored by: Under His Wings Christian Fellowship in Alpena. Info: 989-727-3271 or www.

VisitAlpena.com Beer Pairing Dinner-Right Brain, Part of the culinary adventure series at Treetops Resort, this is a 5-course dinner with each course prepared and paired with a different local brew. Cost is $60/person, includes tax and gratuity, time is 5 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Appledore IV Tawas Bay Day Sail, For a limited time opportunities to sail will be offered to the public from the East Tawas state dock. Various times throughout the weekend, check website for details. Cost is $35/adults, $25/students. Info: (989) 895-5193 or www.BaySailBayCity.org Annual Car and Craft Show, at the Masonic Temple in West Branch. Enjoy a craft show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., car show from noon to 4 p.m. Info: (989) 473-3105 or www.WBACC.com Beer Garden and Outdoor Bar, at Big Buck Brewery in Gaylord from 7 to 11 p.m., play pickle ball, table tennis, speed mitten, corn hole, ladder toss, birdie golf, giant chess board and more. Info: (989) 732-5781 or www.BigBuck.com Psychic and Holistic Wellness Festival, at the Old Stone School in Houghton Lake, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.VisitHoughtonLake. com Roscommon Village Market, features local produce and locally made items and a free education event each weekend. Saturdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October 24. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.

VisitHoughtonLake.com Scramble for Scholarships, Alpena Community College’s major fundraiser, provides scholarships for ACC students. Info: (989) 358-7297 or www.VisitAlpena.com Tawas Bay J/22 Fleet 44 Racing, races 19-21 start at noon. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Tractor Supply Adoption Event, Presented by Claws and Paws in West Branch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (989) 942-7376 26th Annual Corvette Crossroads Car Show,

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The Guide • August/September 2015

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in Mackinaw City. Enjoy live entertainment, Mackinaw Bridge parade of corvettes, presentations, awards and more. Info: (800) 666-0160 or www.MackinawCity.com August Mackinaw City Premier Arts and Craft Show, at the Conkling Heritage waterfront park. The show will feature many artist from around the country. Exhibits include: Paintings, woodwork, hand-crafted jewelry and clothing, self-published books, nature photography, gourmet dips and salsas and much more. Info: (800) 750-0160 or www.MackinawCity.com Free O.R.V. Weekend, The Michigan Depart of Natural Resources invites off-road enthusiasts to enjoy another state-wide O.R.V. free weekend. The D.N.R. waives the requirement to have an O.R.V. license or trail permit to ride an O.R.V. on D.N.R.-designated routes and trails. Info: (989) 225-8573 or www.Michigan.gov Rendezvous at the Straits Powwow, visit French encampments and see a traditional powwow, watch demonstrations, visit vendors, enjoy Native dancing and drumming ceremonies at the Father Marquette National Memorial in St. Ignace. Cost is $5, Elders $4, under 5 free. Info: (906) 984-2083 or www.SaintIgnace.org Otsego County Fair, at Otsego County Fairgrounds in Gaylord, animal exhibits, races, mud bogs, carnival rides, midway and more. Info: (989) 732-3811 or www.OtsegoCountyFairgrounds. org Art and Antique Appraisals, Wednesday Dumouchelle will be conducting appraisals by appointment, cost is $7/item or $ 15 for written appraisal. Private home appraisals will be conducted on Thursday for a cost of $100, deposit of $50 required. All appraisals by appointment only, proceeds to benefit the ,Gaylord Area Council for the Arts. Info: (989) 732-3242 or www.GaylordArts.org 76th Birthday Celebration of Gilpin Field, come celebrate in Rogers City with a tailgate party featuring the Kiwanis Fish Shack serving their famous fish sandwiches, a football double header. Info: (989) 734-3075 or www.RogersCityAreaChamber.com Northern Michigan’s Outdoor Sports Exposition, Features exhibits, interactive displays, outdoor sports excitement, demonstrations, A.T.V.s, hunting gear, hunting dogs and puppies at the

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Knights of Columbus Hall in Cheboygan. Cost is $5/person, kids 12 and under free. Info: (231) 268-0044 or www.MichiganOutdoorExpo.com Golden Dragon Acrobats, Grace, power and beauty perfected for more than 2500 years. Witness the timehonored tradition of the world’s premier Chinese acrobatic touring company at Kirtland Community College in Roscommon. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Hubs and Pubs Pumpkin Run and Brewfest, in Prudenville. Features a car show, beer tasting and craft show. Info: (989) 422-2002 or www.VisitHoughtonLake. com Joe’s Long Run-26.2 Miles at Northeast State Trail, Starting at 6:15 p.m. in Alpena. Race entry forms are available at www.thunderbaytrails.org at the Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce. Info: (989) 354-7314 or www.VisitAlpena.com Metal Revolution 4, come one and all to the Heavy Metal event of the year for Northeast Michigan. Bands from around the state will be performing in Alpena throughout the day and the Crushin’ Metal Mud Drags will be on the field. Food, refreshments and camping on site. Cost is $10. Info: (989) 255-7350 or www.VisitAlpena.com Tour de Lumberjack-A Bike Ride on the Sunrise Side, Fun, fitness family and friends. Four paved routes available, all loop back to a catered lunch in East Tawas. Bike then boogie at the Blues Festival all weekend long.

Info: (989) 739-7322 or www.OscodaChamber. com Hooverville Reenactment, View reenactors as they portray how live was lived in a typical Hooverville, a blanket and cardboard box community, during the great depression, hobo camp included at Wellington Farm Park in Grayling. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.

WellingtonFarmPark.org Ladies Lessons from the Pros, at Otsego Country Club and Resort, starting at 2 p.m., enjoy at short complimentary golf clinic from P.G.A. professional Mark Hogan, cooking tips and food from chef Tim Ruehls. Cost is $90/person, beverages not included. Info: (989) 732-5181 or OtsegoClub.com

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Coffee and Conversations with Veterans, , at the Otsego County Regional Airport in Gaylord from 0900 hours to 1000 hours (9 to 10 a.m.), the first Wednesday of each month to provide a rally point for all veterans to come and socialize over complementary coffee and donuts, each month there will be a surprise guest coffee drinker.

No formats, no presentations, no agendas, just coffee and conversation. Info: (989) 732-4000 or www.GaylordChamber.com.

Beat the Pro-Meet the Brewery-Miller Brewing Company, Starting at 7 p.m. at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, with a Michigan Brewery visiting Treetops and featuring the brews they craft. Compete against one of our pros for a closest to the pin challenge to beat the pro. If you get closer than the pro, enjoy prizes brought by the brewery. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Live Music- The Cookies, Dance the night away at Treetops Resort in Gaylord with live music every weekend in Hunter’s Grille starting at 9 p.m. Info: (866) or www.Treetops. com Farmer’s Market, at the St. Ignace Public Marina from 4 to 7 p.m. through September. Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.

SaintIgnace.org Gallery Opening Reception, at the Skyline Event Center in Comins, from 5 to 6 p.m., also Friday Fire side with blues music.

Info: (888) 352-4762 or www.Skyline.Events. com Elk Country Animal Shelter Garage Sale, at the Montmorency County Fairgrounds in in Atlanta. Info: (989) 785-3400 or www.AtlantaMichiganChamber. com Nautical City Festival, Rogers City. Enjoy a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, teen pageant, kiddie parade, bunco tournament, monster truck rides, antique tractor and farm implement show and more.

Info: (989) 734-4983 or www.NauticalFestival. org 11th Annual Junque in the Trunk Community Sale, Saturaday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of the mini-mall. Info: (989) 348-2921 or www.GraylingChamber.com Club Challenge Weekend, at Rocks and Valleys off-road park in Gladwin.

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w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

Including a bump and hustle, rock solid crawl wall, challenge course and stump hill climb.

Cost vary for entry, contact for guest rates. Info: (989) 539-1448 or www.RocksAndValleys.com Tri-Township Fire Fun Run, at the fire department in Atlanta. Info: (989) 785-3400 or www.

AtlantaMichiganChamber.com Arts and Crafts Dockside, More than 100 artists and crafters display their unique creations along the water front in downtown St. Ignace. Enjoy food and music while your peruse the works of talented artists.

Info: (906) 643-8717 or www.SaintIgnace.org 56th Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk, join thousands of pedestrians as they participate in this long standing tradition. Walk goes from 7 to 11 a.m. Info: (906) 643-7600 or www.MackinawBridge.org Author Meet and Greet, Book signing by the author of Loon Chick’s First Flight, Gene Klco from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Saturn Book Sellers in Gaylord. Info: (989) 7328899 or www.SaturnBooksellers.com Live Entertainment on the Patio, Otsego Club in Gaylord. Thursdays and Saturdays through October 3rd from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Info: (989) 732-5181 or www.

OtsegoClub.com Aliferis Memorial Duathlon, starting at 8 a.m. in Alpena. Race entry forms are available online or at the chamber of commerce.

Info: (989) 354-7314 or www.ThunderBayTrails. org Farmer’s Market in Rose City, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City Hall parking lot on M-33, Saturdays through September. Info: (989) 345-2821 or www.WBACC.com Patriot Golf Day Shootout, golfers with any military affiliation can participate free of charge the entire weekend. Featuring an opening ceremony with a red, white and blue glowball tournament, two-person 27 holes of play, banquet, auction and entertainment and more. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com 41st Annual Harrisville Harmony Days, held each year before Labor Day with over 300 exhibitors displaying their wares on the grounds of the court house. Info: (989) 7247197 or www.HarrisvilleArtsCounsil.com

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Harmony Weekend Art Fair in Harrisville, juried and nonjuried art fair. Info: (989) 724-7197 or www.

AlconaCountyChamberOfCommerce.com Fat Hog’s Fishing Tournament, Rogers City. Info: (989) 734-2535 or www.RogersCityAreaChamber.com Alabaster Corners Tent Sale, various vendors with antiques, vintage and quality hand made products. Info: (989) 254-7314 or www.Tawas.com 25th Annual Labor Day Arts and Crafts Show, Newman Street East Tawas. Show hours are, Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas.com Labor Day State Street Bridge Walk, Cheboygan. Line up begins at 11 a.m.

With free hot dogs, chips, refreshment and entertainment. Info: (231) 627-7183 or www.

Cheboygan.com Open Mic Night, Mary’s Tavern in Gaylord, starting at 10 p.m. Info: (989) 732-6333 or www.GaylordChamber.com Ladies Night Out- Night at the Spa, Drop your children off at the Treetops Children Center and enjoy an evening out with friends while trying new activities and learning new things. Daughters 13 and up may join Ladies Night out. Cost is $30/person Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Self-Defense and Karate Classes, for ages 6 to 70, held every Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in room 202 in the CRAF Center in Roscommon. Cost is $8.25/class. Info: (989) 821-44119 or www.HLRCC.com Tai Chi Classes for Arthritis, Wednesdays at 9:45 a.m. in room 202 at the CRAF center in Roscommon. Info: (989) 821-4419 or www.HLRCC.com 8th Annual Antique Tractor Mackinac Bridge Parade, Starting at 9 a.m. see hundreds of unique tractors starting in Mackinaw City and crossing over the Mackinac Bridge to St. Ignace, public view sections available. Info: (31) 436-5664 or www.

MackinawCity.com Alcona Arts Retreat, with prominent artists and teachers, 3-hour session on Friday and Saturday and 4-hour session on Sunday learning how to plein air printing, basket-making, printmaking, silver jewelry making, song writing, painting with collage and poetry writing. Info: (989)

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736-3000 or www.InspirationAlcona.org 9th Annual Deputy Ryan Sequin Memorial Golf Scramble, in Alpena from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $75/person. Info: (989) 464-0996 or www.VisitAlpena.com United Way Day of Caring, volunteers from various non-profits in Otsego County doing “good things” such as; planting trees, painting, raking, handyman chores and various other activities. Businesses and families welcome. Info: (989) 732-6232 or www.GaylordChamber.com Top of the Lake Snowmobile Show, at Little Bear East Arena in St. Ignace. The museum will show sleds from its collections, other collectors are welcome to display their sleds. Cost for admission and display is free. Info: (906) 4776298 or www.SaintIgnace.org 19th Annual Hopps of Fun Beer and Wine Festival, at Mackinaw City Crossings. Enjoy samplings from more than 50 Michigan Micro-brewed beer and 40 wines from around Michigan. Info: (231) 436-5350 or www.MackinawCrossings.com Posen Potato Festival, featuring a parade, polka band lineup, arts and crafts, flea market, spud run, potato pancake dinner, amusement rides and much, much more. Info: (989) 766-8128 or www.PosenPotatoFestival.com AuSable River Cleanup, Gates Lodge in Grayling. Info: (517) 290-6647 or www.GraylingChamber.com 12 and 24 Hours of Hanson Hills Mt. Bike Race. Info: (989) 348-9266 or www.HansonHill.org My School Color Run, to support the Grayling High School classes of 2016 and 2017, starts at 10 a.m. Info: www.

GraylingChamber.com or (989) 348-2921 Brews ‘n Blues Festival, Skyline Event Center in Comins. Good music, good food, good times, noon to midnight on the grounds. Info: (888) 352-4762 or www.

OscodaCountyMi.org Tawas Bay J/22 Fleet 44 Racing, Sailboat racing on Tawas Bay goes back to the days of lumber schooners, this event is keeping it alive. Starts at noon at Tawas Bay Yacht club. Info: (989) 362-8643 or www.Tawas. com 4th Annual Glennie Fireworks Golf Outing, at Eagle Ridge

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Golf Club. 18 holes with car, four person scramble. All proceeds go to Glennie fireworks fund. Info: (989) 724-5126 or www.

AlconaCountyChamberOfCommerce.com Sunrise Gardening Club Fail Plant Sale, in Lincoln. Plants and other garden-related items will be for sale at the A.R.A. Farmer’s Market. Info: (989) 724-6569 or www.AlconaCountyChamberOfCommerce.com Friends of Alpena Farmer’s Market 5th Annual Mum Fundraiser, helps to raise money for the Farmer’s Market Kids day and the expansion of the market. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Cruising the Straits at Shepler’s Ferry, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and dessert will be served, door prizes, 50/50 raffle, and music by Nate King. Cost is $60 each or two for $100. Info: (231) 420-4466 or www.Cheboygan.com 3rd Annual Tour of the Lakes, a fundraiser for the Roscommon Area District Library building fund. Ride around Higgins Lake and the North Shore of Houghton Lake. Tour begins at the South Higgins Lake State Park. Info: (989) 281-1305 or www.

HLRCC.com Party at the Plex, Otsego County.

Includes fun, food shopping, drinks and live music from Exit 282. Tickets: $6/person.

Info: (989) 858-3400 or www.OCSportsPlex.com Life Ride 2015, a 4-mile family friendly bike ride, 2-mile walk and open house at Options. Info: (989) 255-5172 or www.OptionsPregnancyCenter.org Thunder on the Strip, at the Gladwin County Airport, a car show, car and truck drag race, races being at 2 p.m. Spectator free $5, children 10 and under are free. Info: (989) 329-2528 or www.ThunderOnTheStrip.net An Evening at the Logging Camp, at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling from 7 to 9 p.m. With a lantern lit trail leading to 1896, when Salling, Hanson and Company’s section 9 camp logged what is now Hartwick Pines State Park. Enjoy costumed interpreters prepare for theupcoming winter logging season; event is free, recreational passport required for entry. Info: (989) 348-2537 or www.GraylingChamber.com Juried Fine Art Exhibit and Reception, at the G.A.C.A. Art Center in Gaylord from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy art, food, drinks and fun. Info: (989) 732-3242 or www.

GaylordArts.org

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The Guide • August/September 2015

While all attempts at accuracy have been made, it is always best to call ahead and confirm before making the drive.

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Fall Fest at Wellington Farm Park, join craftsmen, musicians and more as they converge on Wellington Farm Park in Grayling, to celebrate the beginning of the Fall season. Info: (989) 348-5187 or www.WellingtonFarmPark.org Civil War Encampment and Cannon Firing, Cannon shoot, re-enactor skirmish, parade of patriots, night shoot at dark, campfire, Civil War songs and stories at the Fire training grounds off Ballanger road in Roscommon. Info: (989) 2758760 or www.HLRCC.com Farm to Fork-Back to Our Roots, Treetops Resort in Gaylord. A unique culinary series featuring locally grown and prepared dishes and the hands that brought them from seed to the table. Cost is $99/person and includes tax and gratuity. Info: (866) or www.Treetops.com Mystery Dinner Theatre, Otsego County Sportsplex in Gaylord.

Presenting a hilarious “Who Done It” bar and dinner. Cost is $25. Info: (989) 731-3546 or www.OCSportsPlex.com VFW Country Breakfast, second Sunday of every month in Roscommon from 8 a.m. to noon. Adults $7, children 10 and under are $4. Menu includes eggs, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, pancakes, French toast, sausage, toast, coffee, tea and juice. Info: (989) 275-4136 or www.HLRCC.com 2015 L.E.T.R. Alpena Community Run, 3 mile run starting at Duck Park.

Info: (989) 354-4101 or www.VisitAlpena.com Tanger Mall Pink Style 25% off Fundraiser, for breast cancer. Info: (989) 345-2594 or www.

TangerOutlets.com 5th Annual Alpenopoly Grub Crawl, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Huron Distributors providing free cab rides home that night for participants. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com 36th Annual Michigan Fireman’s Memorial Firemen’s Memorial Festival, Fire chiefs, fire fighters, EMS and thousands of friends and family from all over the United States and Foreign countries gather in memory of fire

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fighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Includes arts and crafts, activities for the kids, free hot dogs and pop, Ronald McDonald magic show, light parade and more. Info: (989) 2755880 or www.FiremensMemorial.org Hale Hot Air Balloon Fest, at the Iosco County Fairgrounds. Antique appraisal, antique sale and flea market, arts and crafts show and much more. Info: (989) 7282525 or www.HaleYes.org 19th Annual Richard Crane Memorial Big Truck Show and Parade of Lights, awesome semi-trucks with customized cabs, extraordinary paint and art works, neon light displays. Info: (231) 4365664 or www.MackinawCity.com Big Mac Shoreline Fall Scenic Bike Tour, a one-of-a-kind bike tour celebrating a 25, 50, 75, or 100 mile bike tour along the shores of Lake Michigan. Info: (231) 436-5574 or www.

MackinawCity.com 2nd Annual Mosquito Dash, with an obstacle course for 3 to 5 year olds, mud pits, water, climbing, crawling, 2K mosquito dash, costume contest and more. Info: (906) 632-3373 or www.SaintIgnace.org On the Waterfront Car, Toy and Truck Show, one day car show in St. Ignace. Enjoy exhibitions, swap meet, food, music and more. Info: (906) 643-8087 or www.

SaintIgnace.org Northern Rods ‘N Rides Annual Car Show, over 100 trophies given, plus an 8x10 photo of your car for each entry, T-shirts, delicious food, raffles and much more.

Info: (231) 238-5165 or www.IRChamber.com 5K Fun Run and Walk, at Old Orchard park in Oscoda. Race starts at 10 a.m.

Discounts for early registration. Info: (989) 7397322 or www.OscodaChamber.com The Cat’s Pajamas, at the Kirtland Center for the Performing Arts. Info: (989) 275-6777 or www.KirtlandCenter.com Monthly Salad Luncheon, at the 1st Congregational Church in Gaylord from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Features a large variety of freshly made salads, desserts and beverages. Cost is $7. Info: (989) 732-7840 or www.GaylordChamber.com Outdoor Sales Event, at the Otsego County Sportsplex in Gaylord. Event features R.V.s, boats, trucks, A.T.V.s, snowmobiles. Free winter storage on

select purchases. Cost is $5/car. Friday 3 to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (989) 858-3400 or www.

OCSportsPlex.com 2nd Annual Thunder Bay Folk Festival, great bands, food, art vendors, kid’s activities, community bon fire and more. Rustic camping for $15. Info: (989) 354-4181 or www.VisitAlpena.com Paul Bunyan Days, in Oscoda. featuring carnival rides, flap jack shack, chainsaw carving, chili cook-off, kids’ activities and more. Info: (989) 739-7322 or www.OscodaChamber.com Alcona Humane Society Annual Garage Sale, starting at 9 a.m. goes until 3 p.m. both days. Info: (989) 736-7387 or www.

AlconaCountyChamberOfCommerce.com Annual Color Ride Breakfast, at the Lewiston American Legion Post #198, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Info: (989) 786-3525 or www.LewistonChamber.com Friends of the Alpena Farmer’s Markets 9th Annual Kid’s Day, live music, FFA hay rides, petting zoo, pumpkin painting, cider making, demonstrations, games, veggie tasting for kids. Cost is free. Info: (989) 354-4181 Mighty Mac Bridge Race, an 11K race in St. Ignace, crossing the bridge, starts at 7 a.m. Cost is $40 plus $3 sign-up fee.

Info: (906) 643-6950 or www.SaintIgnace.org Wine and Cheese Color Tour on the Tribute, Otsego Club in Gaylord.

Assorted red, white and sparkling wines, limited selection of local and craft beers, hors d’oeuvres.

Info: (989) 732-5181 or www.OtsegoClub.com 5th Annual Scrapbooking for Cancer, Hosted by the Roscommon County Relay for Life, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Early bird registration fee is $25 or $30 at the door, please register. Info: (989) 366-5076 or www.HLRCC.com Harvest Festival at Castle Farms, horse-drawn wagon rides, free cider and donuts, mini farmer’s market, photo booth, games and prizes, magic show and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Gaylord. $10 admission charge.

Info: (231) 237-0884 or www.CastleFarms.com

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Oscoda, MI Carnival Rides & Games, Flap Jack Shack, Chainsaw Carving, Chili Cookoff, Kids’ Activities & Storytelling, Great Food and Much More!

For more info: Oscoda AuSable Chamber of Commerce (989) 739-7322 www.OscodaChamber.com Centrally located, you are within a short trip to all that Northern Michigan has to offer.

26:

• 100 wooded campsites with re pits & tables

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(989) 422-3413

• Large group area • Modern restrooms, showers, & laundry • Camp store and coffee cafe • Catch and release shing pond • Two Rustic camping cabins • One fully furnished cabin • Pets welcome

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997 Federal Ave. Houghton Lake, MI www.WoodedAcresCampground.net w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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12

Northeast Michigan loses its loudest

Voice

Northeast Michigan loses its great advocate Jerry Nunn could talk to anyone – business owners, conservationists, old timers at the coffee shop, artisans, tourists passing through, farmers, government officials and everyone else. And not just talk, but listen to all different perspective and offer suggestions on how we could all do more to benefit the region. It seemed like he knew everyone, knew their stories, knew what made them tick. He reminded me of a popular mayor or governor. I thought to myself, if our region had its own governor, it would be Jerry Nunn.

In the several years since I first met Jerry, he stands out as the person who just wanted the very best for Northeast Michigan. He viewed the region as a special place, a place with so much potential. Jerry understood the culture, the natural resources and the economic challenges.

Perhaps more than anyone else, he supported our efforts at Huron Pines to intertwine those three things into our projects for the

long-term good of the region.

Jerry was both super supportive and opinionated at the same time. He brought a tremendous amount of passion

Jerry Nunn was the winner of the 2010 O.B. Eustis Award for outstanding service to Northeast Michigan. to his work and life. His quest to find the unique things in Northeast Michigan and tell the good stories were evident in his work as the editor of The Guide and evident in how he approached every interaction. He

The Guide • August/September 2015

h a D H s

t n p a b a W w w c e s f

came into our office regularly and each time left an impression on a T all of us.

T Jerry passed away recently A after being diagnosed earlier w this year with terminal cancer. s He will be greatly missed. I can p remember having lunch with t Jerry and his son Scott back in p mid-February, a couple of weeks before his diagnosis, and he used a the time to promote a number t i of different ideas to help local communities across the region. a Although it left a strong memory e with me, it was a “typical” f meeting with Jerry – he came into our office like a storm, left t l everyone with a smile on their h face, and focused our lunch talk f on sharing a number of ideas o for how to make Northeast Michigan better.

We’ll certainly miss Jerry and we send our best wishes to the Nunn family. Northeast Michigan has truly lost one of its greatest assets.

-Brad Jensen, Executive Director, on behalf of all of Jerry’s friends at Huron Pines

Thank you Brad, I couldn’t have said it better myself. In addition to Northeast Michigan, Dad was also passionate about Huron Pines and was a proud supporter.

In the days that followed the death of Dad, we received numerous letters, cards and phone calls from folks all across Northeast Michigan. On behalf of my family, it was a truly humbling experience.

We all knew that Dad was well liked, well connected and well followed. After all the communications it became even more evident when I was standing in line at the dinner following his showing.

We laid out all of Dad’s articles from the Bay City Times, True North Magazine, The Guide and local newspapers.

As everyone stood in line waiting for their food, I noticed several people thumb through the pages and say they remembered that story, or they know those people.

It is a humbling thing, with a hall full of people (thanks to the fire marshal for not walking in that day), to see firsthand all the lives Dad had touched.

I would like to thank everyone for their kind words, flowers and gifts during our time of grief. Your support, your love of Jerry, is truly helping to heal our wounds. We will never forget, and I hope his voice lives on in each of us, always.

Jerry Edward Nunn 11/22/1959 - 07/29/2015

Jerry with his wife of 18 years and the love of his life, Vicki.

The only boy in the family of girls, Jerry sought every opportunity to terrorize his sisters. Pictured (L to R) are sisters Diane Rhines, Susan Riggs, his mother Deanna, and sister Linda Kennedy.

Family was a large part of Jerry’s life. Pictured here are just some of his children and grandchildren. w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

13

Nunn Better Cancer silences the voice of Northeast Michigan Jerry Nunn was sitting in his truck, trying to warm up after crawling out from under a house where he’d been called to unfreeze some pipes when he heard a radio commercial highlighting the journalism program at the local community college.

“I started up the truck, drove to the campus, signed up for the class,” he told his instructor that day in January 2003.

“I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was 8 years old, so here I am.”

Enough jumping from one deadend laborer’s job to another. He was seizing an opportunity, vowing to make the most of it. And he did. The first two assignments for that Introduction to Journalism class at Kirtland Community College were published in the Bay City Times, which paid him $75 apiece – for doing his homework.

It wasn’t about the money, though.

For Mr. Nunn – who died July 29, 2015 after a short but epic battle with lung cancer – it was about a career, something he knew he could spend the rest of his life doing. He was 55.

Until then, he had worked myriad jobs, mastering them all with his hands, his head, his heart and an incomparable work ethic. A man who as a youngster thought he wanted to grow up and be a rodeo clown ultimately spent time in construction, plumbing, electrical work, heating and cooling and installing water softeners.

“I would describe him as a professional hobbyist,” his son and business partner, Scott, said of his father’s many skills and interests. “He could engage with everybody at every level with anything. He was ornery, obstinate and opinionated, and he was the most intelligent, loving and selfless person I have ever known.”

14

By KEITH GAVE

Mr. Nunn even spent time in the restaurant business as a short order/ pizza cook. That’s where he met Vicki, his wife of 18 years.

“When I first met him he was 20 years old and I thought of him as an arrogant, cocky, little snot,” Vicki said.

“And he became the love of my life.”

His family believes that working in those many different trades gave Jerry a kind of empathy that is rare in people and helped him relate to everyone at some level.

But he found his home in journalism.

While editor of his college paper at Kirtland, he was honored by the Michigan Press Association as the Collegiate Journalist of the Year in 2004, one of numerous awards he earned in his writing career.

“I remember him doing articles about the college. He was very assertive. Very aggressive,” said Richard Silverman, then Kirtland’s Dean of Instruction and later a trustee of the college. “I thought his reporting was very informed and informative, balanced and wellresearched.

“He was, as a journalist, a militant reformer, and I respected him for that.

He’s the best journalist I’ve run into up here, that’s for sure. And he just worked his butt off.”

Jerry Nunn’s byline appeared in newspapers throughout Northern Michigan, including the Ogemaw Herald, the Roscommon Herald-News, the Oscoda Herald and the Houghton Lake Resorter. From Kirtland, he finished his education at Saginaw Valley State University and continued to develop his journalism career as an intern with the Bay City Times, which eventually hired him as a staff reporter covering Northeast Michigan. His work appeared

prominently as well in True North magazine, a quarterly publication produced by the newspaper.

But when his newspaper cut back its regional coverage, Mr. Nunn – steadfast in his belief that Northeast Michigan and all that was good Jerry Nunn poses for a photo during his and wonderful coverage of the AuSable River Canoe about it cannot be ignored Marathon.

– he resigned and started up his own publication, The Guide. throughout the district who had scored In the seven years that have passed well on the annual standardized test since then, Jerry Nunn has become the spent five summer days at the college region’s most visible and widely known learning myriad subjects like robotics, and respected promoter – and its voice, 3D art, photography, foreign languages, theatre and aquatic chemistry. clear and strong.

Jerry taught journalism; his students “My dad had this dream that if we stand together, unite and communicate, produced a 20-page newspaper, The that we, too, can prosper economically,” Kirtland MEAP Express, featuring stories and photos about all the other Scott said. fun classes.

Innately curious and fundamentally It was a total-immersion learning friendly, Mr. Nunn was one of those rare people who never met a stranger and he experience, “a program that exemplifies all that is right in public education,” Mr. absolutely lit up around children. A New Nunn once wrote. When the COOR Year’s Eve tradition at his house was Intermediate School District and Kirtland a big sleepover with all the kids in the decided to end the program, he fought family whose parents wanted to go out valiantly – though unsuccessfully – to and celebrate. In the mornings, he and Vicki would prepare a huge breakfast for save it. That remained one of the great disappointments in his journalism everyone, and Jerry would make sure career. all the kids had pots and pans and big What people saw of Jerry Nunn on spoons so they could create the kind of various work sites as a younger man, or racket their parents weren’t quite ready more recently as he traversed Northeast to deal with.

Michigan as the region’s preeminent He spent several years as an storyteller, only begins to tell his own instructor in the annual MEAP story.

Week at Kirtland, when fifth-graders

The Guide • August/September 2015

Daughter Allison recalls the years he spent with her Girl Scout troop, first as the group’s “cookie mom,” followed by three years as its troop leader. Nothing made him happier than running into those little girls years later, grown up with their own families, telling him how much he enriched their lives as a Girl Scout volunteer.

He loved spending time in the kitchen, and his family’s life revolved around great food gatherings. Longtime friends will tell of his passion for growing things that led him to earning recognition as a master gardener.

Nancy and Tom Pavelek recall meeting Jerry when he was part of the crew remodeling their Ogemaw County home. To their young son, Tommy, Nunn was “that long-haired cool guy” who became fast friends with the family. It always started with a question, followed quickly by a few hundred more. Jerry Nunn was fascinated by everything he encountered, including the Pavelek’s sheep.

Soon, he was buying his first lamb, then learning to shear sheep, then spinning their wool into yarn.

“It just blows my mind how he could do anything,” said Nancy Pavelek, a retired nurse. “He was always asking questions, about everything. And he was very intelligent. He could research anything and put it into practical application.”

But she couldn’t imagine, when she first met him that Jerry Nunn would wind up making his reputation as a writer.

“I would never have expected him to go back to school. Never, ever,” Pavelek said. “And I certainly never knew what creativity was hidden beneath that exterior. Then I started reading some of his writing. This was crazy. I never knew.

It just goes to show you cannot judge a book by its cover.”

But even as The Guide grew – though the Nunns stop short of suggesting it is prospering, just yet – Jerry Nunn was taking nothing for granted about even this love affair he had going with journalism.

He was always warning his family that if his writing career didn’t take off as he had planned, he was going to take up hairdressing next.

Besides his wife Vicki and children

Scott (Shannon) and Allison (Tristan Trudel), Jerry Nunn is survived by his father James (Kathy), of Snover; mother Deanna Freeland, of Davison; his aunt Nancy (CJ Anderson) and sisters Linda (Ron Kennedy), of Tawas; Susan (Riggs), of Otter Lake; Diane (Stacy Rhines), of Davison; Mary (Brad Hawkins), of Durban, South Africa; Greta (Dan Deffendall), of Atlanta, Georgia; and Jessica (Gary Cave), Collierville, Tennessee. He is also survived by stepchildren Barbara Shock, of Oscoda; Debbie (Ron Anderson), of Oscoda; and Michael Bryant, of Prescott; along with nine grandchildren, four great grandchildren and 17 nieces and nephews.

–Keith Gave was Jerry’s mentor and journalism instructor at Kirtland Community College and graciously wrote this obituary at the family’s request. This obituary was previously published in the Ogemaw County Herald August 6, 2015.

established in 1911

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䘀愀氀氀 吀爀攀攀 倀氀愀渀琀椀渀最 椀猀 刀椀最栀琀 䄀爀漀甀渀搀 琀栀攀 䌀漀爀渀攀爀℀ 䌀愀氀氀 甀猀 琀漀搀愀礀 琀漀 猀攀攀 眀栀愀琀 琀爀攀攀 猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀猀 眀攀 栀愀瘀攀 最漀椀渀最 漀渀℀ ᰠ一漀戀漀搀礀 欀渀漀眀猀 ᠠ攀洀 氀椀欀攀 琀栀攀 最甀礀猀 眀栀漀 最爀漀眀 ᤠ攀洀ᴠ

㄀㘀㘀 一⸀ 䘀椀昀琀栀 匀琀⸀Ⰰ 圀攀猀琀 䈀爀愀渀挀栀 ⠀㤀㠀㤀⤀ ㌀㐀㔀ⴀ㄀㄀㌀㌀

Your only source for local news:

Call 800-772-3970 to subscribe now. w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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16

Burnin’ Rubber

By DENNIS MANSFIELD Contributing Writer

WHITTEMORE – While the Whittemore Speedway might have started out as a substitute for a carnival, the race track located off of M-65 in the small Northern Michigan community of Whittemore continues to be a historic and fun-filled site for racers and spectators for nearly 70 years.

“We’re the oldest continuously used speedway in Michigan,” said Andy Hess, president of the Whittemore Racing Club. “We haven’t shut down for even a year since 1948.

“We’re trying to keep a little bit of history going here.”

The quarter-mile speedway wasn’t originally planned as such. In fact, there was no plan at all.

According to Hess, area residents got together and plowed up a field to race on after a carnival failed to make it to Whittemore.

Using tires as a guide, a four-tenths mile track was laid out with furrows cut across the track to help slow cars down.

In 1951, the race track was redesigned to its present shape and distance of a quarter-mile. The course was again updated and paved in 1988.

“There’s also newer concession stands and newer grandstands,” Hess said. “We’re one of the cleaner race track facilities you’ll find. We get a lot of compliments.”

Now, the speedway hosts a variety of racing events from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year under the oversight of the Whittemore Race Club, which was formed in 1949. That includes a stock front-wheel, “Lead Sled,” street stock, limited, modified and “Legend” divisions.

“It rotates,” Hess said of when the

different classes compete, with races usually set for each Saturday night around 7:30 p.m.

He added that the addition of the front-wheeled class has been a boom for the speedway, allowing younger and newer racers an inexpensive way to get into racing.

“Our new front-wheel class has brought a lot of new life into racing here,” Hess said. “Racing isn’t exactly an easy sport to get into. “(But) this is a stock class with a lot of action,” he added. “Just knock out the windows, put a roll bar in and go.”

By continuing to update both its racing events and facilities, attendance by both racers and race fans continues to be strong.

“We’re doing OK,” Hess said. “Our

The Guide • August/September 2015

(race) car count is coming up.

“And, obviously, the more cars we have the better show there is for the fans, so that’s nice to see.”

Still, over time, some race fans might have forgotten that the speedway is still off and running in the small community of less than 1,000 residents.

“It’s a fun time,” Hess said. “We would like everyone to come out and see it. Some people might have forgotten we’re still here.”

And, Whittemore Speedway is more than just some cars going fast. Hess said the club also tries to make it a source of family entertainment for the fans by engaging spectators whenever they can.

“We have a few things we do,” Hess said. “We do some trivia giveaways for a

Photos courtesy of Farmer Sue Photography of Whittemore.

free drink, now and then.

“We also have an announcer that walks around in the crowd.

He gets out and talks to people.

We try to put on a good show,” he added. “It’s a racing event, but it’s also entertainment. We try to include the spectators in that.

“There’s good food. It’s a good night out.”

But, the speedway is more than just

“We’re a non-profit organization,” Hess added.

“We’re up to about $70,000 being given away (in scholarships) over the years.

“And, it’s all for a good cause.”

The Whittemore Racing Club also is an opportunity for those people who might not race, but want to be involved in both the sport and their community.

“We’re a club,” Hess said. “We’re all volunteers, though we do pay some people to work on Saturday nights.

“We’re always looking for new members to help out,” he added. “It’s a year-round effort. We’re always working on things for the next year.

“Once you have one of these races, you look at how to make it better.”

a good time. Club members proudly boast that proceeds from the speedway are used to fund scholarships awarded to local students, as well as other charities, such as the fight For more information on the speedway, including a complete racing schedule against cancer. and directions to the facility, visit online at www.TheWhittemoreSpeedway.com

w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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18

The 14 th Annual Recommends

Just steps from Downtown on Beautiful Lake Huron at East Tawas Harbor Park!

The Guide • August/September 2015

SOME SECRETS WERE MEANT TO BE SHARED!

ON MICHIGAN’S SUNRISE COAST

25th Annual Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show September 5 & 6

Tawas Point Haunted Lighthouse Weekend October 17 - 18

Set on beautiful Newman Street in East Tawas.

More than 100 booths filled with various crafts, paintings, furniture, jewelry, and much more.

Fun for the whole family! Show times from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Features carnival games and prizes for kids, costumed characters, hayrides and a spooky cemetery. Take part in daytime and nightime lighthouse tours and end the evening with a Monster Bash Dance in the pavilion.

Recreation Passport is required for entry.

Tawas Bay - Your Gateway to Fall Colors Spanning Northeast Michigan’s busiest highway, Tawas is your gateway to fall colors. From here you can explore the nearby scenic AuSable River valley, the Sunrise Coast, or the forested hill country to the west and north. All three areas come alive with vibrant fall colors.

Come stay and play on Tawas Bay. You won’t be disappointed.

For more information on these events or other area info contact us at 877-TO-TAWAS. Rich in history and brimming with culture Tawas Bay is your place to stay.

Grab some fresh grub on Saturdays at the Northeast Michigan Regional Farm Markets.

Catch some live entertainment with Concerts in the Park on Mondays and Tuesday Night LIVE! on Tuesdays. Uncork’d Wine and Food festival is coming in the beginning of August followed by Blast the Blues at the end of

August.

Don’t forget Tawas Bay is home to some of Northeast Michigan’s finest beaches and is only a stones-throw from the River Road Scenic Byway.

Come stay and play on Tawas Bay. You won’t be disappointed.

For more information on these events or other area info contact us at 877-TO-TAWAS.

www.TawasBay.com • (877) To-Tawas w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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Recommends

Michigan’s

Firemen’s Memorial Festival September 17-20, 2015 The 36th Annual Michigan Firemen’s Memorial Festival begins on Thursday, September 17, 2015, and will conclude an activity filled weekend on Sunday, September 20, 2015.

Stop by the Fire Training Grounds, formerly the Roscommon Fairgrounds, at 290 Ballenger Road in Roscommon for arts, crafts, fire vendors, demonstrations, food, children’s activities and much more.

Don’t miss the annual Firemen’s Parade through downtown Roscommon at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2015, and witness not only floats and bands, but also the largest display of firefighting and rescue equipment in Northern Michigan!

For further information go to www.FiremensMemorial.org or call (989) 275-5880.

Recommends

Michigan’s

Firemen’s Memorial Festival September 17-20, 2015 The 36th Annual Michigan Firemen’s Memorial Festival begins on Thursday, September 17, 2015, and will conclude an activity filled weekend on Sunday, September 20, 2015.

Stop by the Fire Training Grounds, formerly the Roscommon Fairgrounds, at 290 Ballenger Road in Roscommon for arts, crafts, fire vendors, demonstrations, food, children’s activities and much more.

Don’t miss the annual Firemen’s Parade through downtown Roscommon at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2015, and witness not only floats and bands, but also the largest display of firefighting and rescue equipment in Northern Michigan!

For further information go to www.FiremensMemorial.org or call (989) 275-5880.

22

Big Charity Island

Preserving a Great Lakes Treasure At Huron Pines, we work to restore and protect Northeast Michigan’s wild places and water quality. That means cleaner water for fishing, boating, swimming—and drinking! Local businesses are using the cool, clear waters of our world-famous lakes and rivers to produce a variety of good things like new coffee blends, locally brewed beer and wine.

Each of these companies is celebrating our water resources by giving a portion of the profits off a conservation-named product back to Huron Pines to continue our mission. You can help by supporting these local businesses and ensuring clean water for the future.

7% of sales of Houghton Creek Red goes to improving water quality and fish movement in Houghton Creek, a high-quality tributary to the Rifle River, from Rose Valley Winery in Rose City.

$1 of every pint sold of Wobbly Warbler ale and Huron Pines Java Porter, from Paddle Hard Brewing in Grayling.

$1 of every pound sold of Conservation Coffee blend.

1 tree planted for every batch sold, from Red Pine Roasters at Isabella’s Copper Pot in Gaylord.

-

Huron Pines

Huron Pines is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an equal opportunity provider

By DEANNA STATON Huron Pines AmeriCorps member With more than 3,200 miles of scenic and varied shorelines ranging from rocky cliffs to sugary sands, our state provides abundant opportunities for local residents or farflung travelers to enjoy the outdoors. In addition to the long and winding coastlines hugging the state’s mainland there are also a number of islands dotting the Great Lakes waters, beckoning wildlife and tourists to experience their rugged beauty.

Eight islands in Lakes Huron and Michigan are part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. These islands offer valuable wildlife habitat and are extremely important for colonies of nesting waterbirds of the Great Lakes region. The Charity Islands, located in Saginaw Bay approximately 12 miles east of the City of Au Gres, are important stopovers for migratory birds and home to reptiles, amphibians and rare plant species like the Pitcher’s thistle—a federally threatened species. Visitors are welcome to catch a cruise to Big Charity Island to experience its unique natural and cultural features and enjoy dinner at the iconic lighthouse, one of the few developments on Big Charity Island.

Birders have a chance to see a wide

The Guide • August/September 2015

variety of species while the surrounding waters are popular with anglers.

Unfortunately, the invasive grass phragmites (Phragmites australis) is taking over shorelines on Big Charity Island (and throughout Michigan) and threatening both the wildlife and scenic value of this special place.

When this rapidly-spreading plant becomes established along sensitive coastal areas, it crowds out native plant species and degrades habitat for birds and other creatures. People are also impacted by the spread as the tall plants obstruct shoreline views and lower property values.

Tim Blanchet, a long-time visitor

to the Charity Islands, brought the issue to Huron Pines at a public meeting in 2013. He explains, “I’ve been going to the Charity Islands for 60 years. I went out there as a little boy with my family when I was young and the beaches were pristine, and phragmites was unknown to the island. You used to be able to walk along the beach. Now, the west and east sides [of Big Charity Island] are completely inundated with phragmites and you cannot even walk along the shore.” The Charity Islands are a special place for Blanchet, who wants to see stands of this noxious plant treated before they become denser and more widespread. “There is an inland lake [on Big Charity Island] that is beautiful and pristine.

By working together we can prevent it from becoming overtaken by phragmites.”

Recognizing the value of protecting the coastal habitat of the Charity Islands, many partners have rallied together by signing a Charity Island Phragmites Treatment Partnership Agreement, which outlines partner roles and responsibilities to help restore and protect this valuable Great Lakes resource. Huron Pines is coordinating the treatment of phragmites, which will begin in fall 2015. The effort is widely supported by a diverse partner network, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which manages the Wildlife

Refuge and is providing $70,000 in funding and additional support to help cover the costs of treating invasive phragmites. Other partners include the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), The Nature Conservancy, the Saginaw Bay Cooperative Weed Management Area, Saginaw Valley State University, the Au Gres-Sims School District, the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative, Michigan Sea Grant and Charity Island Transport, Inc. This collaborative approach to problem solving is setting the stage for longterm success of the project.

Partners will work together to ensure Pitcher’s thistle and other native species are protected during treatment, and will help coordinate long-term monitoring and followup treatment of phragmites that is necessary to ensure that once treated, the phragmites will not be able to regain its foothold on Big Charity Island. A unique element of this project is the opportunity to engage K-12 students from Au Gres-Sims

School District in the inventory of rare Pitcher’s thistle and other monitoring activities related to the project.

Students will help collect data that will be used for a real-world application and through that process will gain experience about plant identification, use of GPS technology and solving community problems. Place-based environmental education lessons like this also serve to help kids develop a sense of pride in our corner of the Great Lakes and motivate them to be good stewards of natural resources.

Blanchet adds, “The Charity Islands are a total gem; a great bass and walleye fishery and a place that I used to spend three or four hours of my day swimming, boating and fishing.” It’s exciting to see the momentum building to restore the island’s coastlines.

If you would like more information about the project, please visit www.

HuronPines.org or contact Josh Leisen, Watershed Project Manager, at josh@huronpines.org or 989.448.2293 ext. 16. Huron Pines is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit conservation organization and equal opportunity provider with a mission to conserve the forests, lakes and streams of Northeast Michigan.

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Students study Microplastics

Small Debris, big issue

By BRANDON SCHROEDER Michigan Sea Grant and MEAGHAN GASS Huron Pines AmeriCorps

Have you ever wondered about what else, besides fish, resides in our Great Lakes? You may be surprised to learn that plastic is floating throughout the Great Lakes. This plastic pollution can weather and break down into smaller and smaller plastic fragments, also known as microplastics. These small pieces of plastic absorb pollutants, and confused as food, they can also be consumed by fish and birds resulting in harm. In general, marine debris is a growing issue and concern in our world’s oceans but also here at home in our freshwater seas – the Great Lakes.

To better understand this issue, Alpena High School ninth grade chemistry students, in cooperation with Great Lakes scientists, are researching plastic pollution in Thunder Bay and Lake Huron. Using a surface trawl, a research net designed to sample plastic pollution, students have collected water samples onboard the glass bottom boat, Lady Michigan, over the past two school years. Collecting data specific to local waters, these samples were taken back to the school chemistry lab, where they were analyzed. While on the water, students conducted some field-based water chemistry analysis and learned about biological pollution – aquatic invasive species – also affecting the health of Lake Huron ecosystems.

Expanding their research in 2015, these students have newly partnered

24

with David Brooks, owner and captain of the Nancy K, a retired commercial fishing vessel retrofitted to assist university and citizen scientists in researching microplastics in the Great Lakes. While onboard, a select group of Alpena High School students collected surface water samples and charted sample locations. The collected water samples were analyzed in the classroom as part of the students’ chemistry class.

Alpena High School teacher, Melissa Smith, first developed the idea and opportunity for this student-led plastic pollution research opportunity during the 2013 Lake Huron Summer Place-Based Education Institute, a professional development opportunity facilitated by partners of the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative. Sponsored by the Sea Grant Center for Great Lakes Literacy (CGLL) and the Great Lakes Fishery Trust, this workshop connected educators with Great Lakes scientists with the goal of helping teachers to engage students in locally relevant Great Lakes stewardship projects. It was here that Melissa first connected with Dr. Mason’s microplastic research. Gaining added experience and training, Melissa later participated in microplastic research first-hand while working alongside Dr. Mason for a week on Lake Erie aboard the EPA research vessel – the R/V Lake Guardian - as

part the Great Lakes Shipboard Science Program, another CGLL-sponsored learning opportunity for teachers.

Putting this project into action locally, Smith’s students have made community connections through their research supported by the NOAA B-WET water education initiative and the NE MI GLSI network. Today, Smith’s class is conducting their studies in partnership with Michigan Sea Grant, Michigan State University Extension, NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, David Brooks and his team of citizen scientist volunteers aboard the Nancy K, and others.

Prior to trawling for plastics in Thunder Bay and Lake Huron, students researched marine debris and the widely publicized Pacific Ocean ‘garbage patches’. Next, the class localized the issue by exploring current research about plastic pollution in the Great Lakes, including studies about microplastic beads that end up in the environment as a by-product of some personal care products. They also studied the chemistry of plastics and other polymers and conducted an in-class scientific investigation where

The Guide • August/September 2015

students discovered that plastic debris does not degrade like other marine debris but rather erodes into small particles. Engaging her class in this issue reflects a place-based education opportunity where students, through their learning, are connecting with community partners and exploring the growing issue of marine debris and its impacts on Great Lakes ecosystems locally.

Through their study, students gain opportunities to explore careers while connecting with Great Lakes science professionals. For instance, students coordinate and share their data with Dr. Sherri Mason, a chemistry professor at Fredonia State University in New York, who is a leading researcher of plastic pollution in the Great Lakes. At school, students conduct assessments of their own local Lake Huron samples, which are shared and verified with Dr. Mason’s research team. Sorting samples under microscopes, students have discovered relatively low amounts yet a wide variety of plastic pollution. They found blue plastic fibers they believed to be from nylon roping or blue plastic tarps,

NORTHEAST MICHIGAN Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative

Expanding Classrooms. Strengthening Communities.

along with some brightly colored red, green, and blue particles possibly from shopping bags and plastic wrapping.

The class even found a few perfectly round green and blue plastic particles thought to be microplastic beads from personal care products.

By working with Great Lakes scientists and connecting communities these students are contributing scientific information about plastic pollution in Lake Huron while raising awareness about marine debris in their local watershed. As the class continues its studies, they hope to be more involved in addressing the issue of plastics entering the Great Lakes by promoting marine debris prevention opportunities locally. They hope to educate and involve their community as partners in exploring ways to reduce and prevent plastic debris from entering the waterways.

Call to Action Join the team of citizen scientists on Nancy K investigating and trawling for microplastics in Thunder Bay and Lake Huron.

To join the team, contact David Brooks at dhbrooks@umich.edu or (734) 476-2144.

WANT TO HELP KEEP MICROPLASTICS OUT OF YOUR PERSONAL PRODUCTS AND AREA WATERSHEDS??

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Support

community-based education in Northeast Michigan.

Visit www.NEMIGLSI.org today.

Protecting the Great Lakes and the Natural Resources of Northeast Michigan through hands-on, place-based education in and with the community.

www.nemiglsi.org w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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Charting their own

Course

By DENISE CLINE NEMCOG Chief Planner & Deputy Director Northeast Michigan is a special place. I know it. The locals know it. Visitors are discovering it! But the real uniqueness of the region lies not only in the destinations but in the hearts of the community members that call it home. The word “collaboration” might not have tourism appeal, but it means a lot to our locals and it IS how Northeast Michigan gets things done.

The region that we call home is a large one stretching from the Tawas Bay area over to the Houghton and Higgins Lake area in Roscommon County and north to the Mackinac Bridge. Taken together, this region offers an astounding array of destinations where visitors don’t have to battle the crowds and the traffic present in other areas of the state. The region has found the key to promotion through the use of self-guided tours where visitors can chart their own courses. But the creation and promotion of these tours takes a lot of hard work over a large geography – and that is where the die-hard local champions come together to show what can be accomplished by working together!

A prime example of this is the US 23 Heritage Route – a program built on regional partnerships.

Over 100 individuals have come together to promote the 200-mile route along Lake Huron’s coast as a collection of destinations. Michigan Arts & Culture Northeast (MACNE) maintains their program “ARTown” within heritage23.com.

Clicking on ARTown will show the visitor 60+ destinations along an arts and cultural trail in a series of “creative communities” along the coast.

Most recently, MACNE has organized a selfguided tour called the Lake Huron Discovery Tour – taking place October 9-12, 2015.

The group has kicked off a campaign to promote the route for that fall weekend. Visitors are being encouraged to “chart their own courses” and plan an adventure based around 26

their own interests.

Local communities and businesses are being encouraged to plan special events to be promoted as part of the tour. Free promotional posters are available for partners to display to indicate that they are part of the 200-mile event. Partners can get their events online at heritage23.com to be promoted as part of the tour event calendar.

The tour will be kicked off at the Saganing Eagles Landing Casino where the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe will be holding an event to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day. Visitors can visit varied attractions on their way up US 23 to Mackinaw City. Collaboration is key to planning a large-scale event such as this.

MACNE/US 23 Management Council member and Harrisville resident Mary Ellen Jones (Michigan Women Productions) says, “What I love about collaboration is that the outcome is greater than any one individual organization can do on its own. Our collaboration keeps dovetailing into spontaneous support, projects, and very efficient marketing.”

Adding to these thoughts, Christine Witulski, Executive Director of the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan says, “The Lake Huron Discovery Tour will bring greater awareness to Northeast Michigan as a desirable destination.

The collaboration along the US 23 corridor is commendable; where else can you find six The Guide • August/September 2015

s E t o m

o a T v r s a t i s h h

c N s t A t “ separate counties working together to a collectively promote all the assets found a along US 23? The shared belief among our C regional partners is that once people find c the US 23 Heritage Route website they will h discover all of us and learn that there is so b much more to see on 23. Promoting the c Lake Huron Discovery Tour in communities along the US 23 corridor has given this northeast i region a unifying identity and a larger sense of c a community.”

Corporate sponsorships for the tour are still t v available, so please contact me at dmcline@ a nemcog.org for more information! r Michigan Sea Grant, another partner in n the US 23 program, has greatly contributed s to the idea of self-guided touring by creating c printable coastal tour pamphlets highlighting b natural resource destinations along the route.

The tours that are available for download on the p a website include lighthouses, birding, diving, fossil hunting, paddling, fisheries, and wetlands- s A wading!

“Northeast Michigan is rich in Great Lakes T and natural resources offering residents and visitors alike a wealth of opportunities to explore and enjoy our northern Lake Huron coastline,”

says Brandon Schroeder, Michigan Sea Grant Extension Educator. Recently, the birding self-guided tour was taken to a new level in the creation of the official Sunrise Coast Birding Trail complete with maps, signs and its own touring page on the website.

Self-guided tours have a limitless ability to show off all that we have. They are popping up in other areas as well - the Alcona County Quilt Trail and the Timberland Quilt Trail offer a unique experience to view quilt blocks which represent local history in our rural areas. Water trails are also self-guided as they show paddlers water routes. The Huron Blueways and the Inland Waterways are two popular water trails in the region, but there are more water trails in the planning stages, so stay tuned for those. More self-guided tours are being planned for upload to heritage23.com including a history tour and a tour highlighting places to sample local foods.

We foresee this trend of regional collaboration continuing far into the future. The champions of Northeast Michigan have discovered the key to showcasing the region’s collection of destinations to the world. Perhaps Tim Kuehnlein, instructor at Alpena Community College (also of MACNE and the Thunder Bay Arts Council), expresses it best: “When I think about MACNE stemming from an academic discussion about community development at Alpena Community College during a Community Conversations series back in 2009, and I see the collaborations fostered by MACNE that have happened in our region since then, I am so excited because it demonstrates that ideas do indeed have consequences.

“So many activities have stemmed from those initial discussions about the importance of arts and culture in a community’s overall development; least of all enhancing the aesthetic and experiential quality of the places where people want to live, work, play and visit time and again. The opportunity to help draw attention to a region of the state which is so underrecognized for its wealth of cultural assets on top of natural assets is quite an amazing development in the scheme of things. Seeing first-hand the benefits of collaboration on a region wide scale is exciting because of the relationships that are built and the positive returns for community. Here we are again after so many different projects; creating yet a deeper sense of place throughout Northeast Michigan ARTown and the US 23 Heritage Route!” Well said, Tim!

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28

A+

proudly sponsors:

Educational Excellence

Connecting Prehistoric Fish to the Present

By MEAGHAN GASS Huron Pines AmeriCorp Member at NE MI GLSI and BRANDON SCHROEDER Michigan Sea Grant Did you know lake sturgeon coexisted with dinosaurs and have lived in the Great Lakes for thousands of years?

Cheboygan and Onaway School students, along with other students across Northeast Michigan, have been learning about this prehistoric fish through an opportunity to host living sturgeon in their classrooms.

This unique project teaches students about this state threatened fish while allowing them to actively participate with scientists in sturgeon research and restoration efforts locally on Black Lake and the Cheboygan River Watershed.

Partnering with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State University, and Sturgeon for Tomorrow, this Sturgeon in the Classroom project allows students to learn about the The Guide • August/September 2015

fish biology, connect fish with aquatic habitat needs, and explore conservation issues of threat to this rare species.

At the beginning of the school year, participating classrooms receive a fingerling lake sturgeon to care for during the school year. Students are responsible for maintaining the tank, testing the water quality,

and feeding bloodworms to the lake sturgeon.

Through a variety of hands-on activities, students are applying science, technology, engineering (STEM) curriculum and connecting to their local watershed.

Coordinating with the local Sturgeon for Tomorrow chapter, teachers and students are also helping to share this information with other students in the school and across their community.

Cheboygan Middle School students developed outreach materials for the 2015 Black Lake Sturgeon Shivaree, a fundraiser for the lake sturgeon hatchery, habitat conservation, research, and outreach.

Onaway highschoolers also mentored and taught younger grades about the fish’s anatomy, habitat, and needs.

Near the end of the school year, the fish are released, and in 2014, the different fish grew from 5 inches up to 18 inches when released.

Prior to its release, the sturgeon is chipped by researchers with a tracking identification tag. This tagging allows future students to stay connected to the fish since with each recapture they will be notified of the location and an update of its growth and health.

This program also connects students to community partners, MI Department of Natural Resources and Sturgeon for Tomorrow, who facilitate the fish’s placement in the classroom. In 2014, schools in Alpena, Cheboygan, Holt, Lake Orion, Lapeer, and Onaway participated in this program. Many

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of these schools are also connected through the Northeast Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative, a network of education and community partners working to integrate the environment into the classroom and benefit the local community. This project is a perfect example of place-based stewardship education since students are learning about their local watershed and a threatened fish species while improving local fisheries with the fish’s release.

w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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3 0

North Country History

with Rob Burg

A Monument to Michigan’s

Lumber History Erected to perpetuate the memory of the pioneer Lumbermen of Michigan through whose labors was made possible the development of the Prairie States.

-Engraving on the front of Lumberman’s Monument

This is the motto engraved on the Lumberman’s Monument that was dedicated on the banks of the AuSable River in Huron National Forest in the summer of 1932.

The monument was the offspring of a kernel of an idea by the Kiwanis Clubs to recognize their own reforestation efforts with a monument of fieldstone. R.G. Schreck, a Huron National Forest Supervisor, thought that this was not enough. He believed that an impressive monument was necessary. Schreck organized a meeting of lumbermen at East Tawas’s Holland Hotel and a monument to Michigan lumbermen and the lumber industry came out as a result.

Lumberman John W. Blodgett of Grand Rapids led the committee to select a sculptor and William B. Mershon, lumberman and conservationist from Saginaw, oversaw the raising of funds.

Blodgett’s committee selected Robert Aitken, a sculptor from New York City. It was an

excellent choice. Aitken was a The three figures on the Lumberman’s Monument stand nine-feet tall and represent prominent American sculptor a river driver, a timber cruiser, and a sawyer. of the first half of the 20th century. Not only did he create studying a compass, flanked by the Lumberman’s Monument, a river driver with his peavey but he did notable sculptures throughout the country. His work and a sawyer with an axe and crosscut saw. The three men included the Dewey Monument stand astride a white pine log. in San Francisco, Calif., (1903), Although R.G. Schreck and that commemorated the hero the nearby Kiwanis Memorial of the Battle of Manila Bay instigated the creation of the during the Spanish-American Lumberman’s Monument, it War, the Liberty Memorial was not predetermined that the tower at the National World Huron National Forest would War I Museum and Memorial become its home. Locations in Kansas City, Mo., (1926), looked at included the banks of and the sculpture of nine figures another great logging river, the and all of the relief and friezes Tittabawassee River. Rasmus on the west pediment of the Hanson, a leading lumberman U.S. Supreme Court building from Grayling, made available in Washington, D.C. Aitken’s his grove of old growth white work is found at the Missouri pine. This was turned down, but State Capitol in Jefferson City, it would become the home of Mo., and numerous sculptures at the United States Military Hartwick Pines State Park. In the Academy at West Point, N.Y. end the AuSable River would be Aitken’s sculpture is a grouping the location of the monument. of three men involved in the It was now in the hands of lumber industry: a timber cruiser William Mershon to raise the

The Guide • August/September 2015

money to build the monument.

Mershon, whose father was one of Saginaw’s early lumbermen, reached out to the leaders of Michigan’s lumber industry. A sum of $47,000 was raised by March of 1930, just as the Great Depression was beginning to deepen. Those who donated, or those for which money was donated as a memorial, were listed on the base of the monument. Ninety-one names appear on the monument. These names include many of the great names of Michigan logging.

The site was initially rather featureless. The monument was built on a bluff overlooking Cooke Dam Pond, but unlike its appearance today, it was treeless. The Civilian Conservation Corps’ Company 665 of Camp Silver Creek would landscape the site including building the original stairs to

the river, a comfort station, the picnic grounds and the nearby campground. The CCC boys also planted many of the trees that shade the site.

Since its dedication in 1932 the Lumberman’s Monument has been one of Michigan’s important sites to commemorate its lumber history. One of the most underrated drives in the Lower Peninsula connects the Lumberman’s Monument and Hartwick Pines State Park. The AuSable River connects the two and a drive along County Road F32 from Grayling to Mio, then McKinley Road through the AuSable National Scenic River area to Glennie and M65 south to River Road and the Lumberman’s Monument. On an Indian summer day, this is one of the great scenic drives connecting Michigan’s forest history.

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Learn more - www.NorthCountryHistory.com The Guide, in support of Eastern National Forests Interpretive Association & Lumberman’s Monument, recently published the Lumberman’s Monument Souvenir Guide.

The Souvenir Guide is available at the Visitor’s Center at the Monument for only $1 and the proceeds from the sales help fund the programs and events held at Lumberman’s Monument free of charge each year.

Designed with all age levels in mind, The Souvenir Guide is sure to please everyone.

Get your copies today and show your support & thanks for all the hard work these folks do to educate and entertain. w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

3 1

North Country History

Harrisville’s

with Rob Burg

f F “ o l t C o h C C

Hall of Famer

Northeast Michigan is Tigers country, but one player who never played in Detroit is beloved here. He is Kiki Cuyler, who played 18 seasons in the Major Leagues and called Harrisville home.

Hazen Shirley Cuyler was born at the Sturgeon Point Life Saving Station on August 30, 1898, where his father served in the U.S. Life Saving Service.

Hazen was a talented ballplayer playing for Harrisville in county league play and for an Alpena baseball club. In 1920 he signed his first professional contract with the Bay City Wolves of the Michigan-Ontario League. In 1921, a scout for the Pittsburgh Pirates saw him play and bought out his contract with Bay City for $3,000. He played briefly with the Pirates in 1921, 1922, and 1923, but mostly in the minors with the Charleston Pals and the Nashville Volunteers. In 1924 Cuyler broke the Pirates lineup for good.

There are several stories of how Cuyler earned his nickname.

Some have Cuyler stuttering his name as “Cuy-Cuy-Cuyler.”

According to others, it was Nashville players calling out “Cuy” for him to catch a popup and repeated by the fans.

The Bay City Times, recounting Cuyler’s time playing with the Wolves, attributed it to Bay 3 2

1 H c f C

City player Benny Stumpf who called him “Cuy.” However it happened, the name stuck.

In 1925 Kiki was one of the best players in the National League, powering the Pirates to the NL Pennant and defeating the Washington Senators in the World Series. Cuyler hit .357 and led the NL with 26 triples and 144 runs. He hit two inside-thepark homeruns in the same game at Philadelphia’s Baker Bowl.

Kiki finished second for League MVP to Rogers Hornsby of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Near the end of the 1927 season, Cuyler was benched

by Pirates’ manager Donnie Bush over a dispute about playing positions. He missed the remainder of the season, including the World Series. In the off-season Cuyler was traded to the Chicago Cubs.

Cuyler excelled with the Cubs.

He led Chicago to National League crowns in 1929 and 1932; and was named to the 1934 All-Star team. As injuries and age took its toll, Cuyler was released and signed with the Cincinnati Reds during the 1935 season. He played with the Reds for three seasons and finished his career in 1938 with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

After his playing days ended, Kiki Cuyler was a Minor League manager with the Chattanooga

C r b n N

A facsimile of Kiki Cuyler’s Hall of Fame plaque from the Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown, New York.

-Photo courtesy of the Alcona District Library

Lookouts and the Atlanta Crackers and a Major League coach with the Cubs and Boston Red Sox. Like most from Northeast Michigan, the outdoors was in Cuyler’s blood. In the off-season he returned to Harrisville to hunt and fish. One outing was recounted in History and Legends of Lost Lake Woods: “All of the rooms of the club were taken one winter weekend in 1930, for a special wildcat hunt arranged

by Kiki Cuyler, the celebrated outfielder of the Chicago Cubs.

The spillovers had to find rooms in Alpena. As it happened, the temperature dropped to -16 degrees Fahrenheit, freezing the scent and rendering the dogs ineffective for the hunt.”

The Guide • August/September 2015

To the end, Cuyler loved the outdoors. On February 2, 1950, he was ice fishing when he suffered a heart attack.

While being transferred to the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor he suffered a coronary thrombosis.

This was fatal. Cuyler was buried in St. Anne’s Catholic Cemetery in Harrisville.

Broadcaster Fred Hoey once said, “Cuyler can hit, run, field and throw with the best of ‘em.” Despite a career batting average of .321 and having 2,299 career hits, he failed to be selected by ballot to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Over his career, Cuyler had three 200-hit seasons. It wasn’t until

1968 that the Baseball Hall of Fame’s veterans’ committee selected Cuyler for enshrinement in Cooperstown.

Harrisville hasn’t forgotten their Hall of Famer. Cuyler’s son opened “Ki Cuyler’s Dugout” on US 23. Although no longer family-owned, there are photographs of Cuyler adorning the walls of the restaurant. In 2009, highway M-72 in Alcona County was named the Kiki Cuyler Memorial Highway.

Hazen Shirley “Kiki” Cuyler may not be remembered by most baseball fans, but he’ll never be forgotten in Northeast Michigan.

3 3

Kiki Cuyler’s receipt of his share of the 1925 World Series Champions’ purse. Signed

by Major League Baseball Commissioner Kennesaw Mountain Landis, Cuyler’s share was $5,332.72. This hangs on the wall of Ki Cuyler’s Dugout in Harrisville.

-Photo by Rob Burg

Learn more - www.NorthCountryHistory.com

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3 4

4 Mackinaw City reasons to plan your stay and make

your scenic color tour getaway

US-23 south out of Mackinaw City is a H E R I TAGE scenic option that will lead you through the cities of Cheboygan, Rogers City, and beyond. This route follows the Lake Huron shoreline and is sure to impress with its stunning backdrop of autumn reds and golds.

23

To access Old 27 take I-75 south to exit 310. Travel west about one mile to S. Straits Highway, which becomes Old 27. Our suggestion is to run it at least along the bluffs of the Sturgeon River from Indian River to Wolverine.

Once in Wolverine you can continue to Grayling on Old 27 or access I-75.

O L D

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To experience the Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route of M-119 take I-75 south to exit 336 and travel south along US-31.

Turn west onto County Road 66 and follow it to the junction with M-119 in Cross Village. The Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route winds along 16 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline to Harbor Springs.

䴀

㄀㄀㤀

Travel north across the Mackinac Bridge and exit onto westbound US Highway 2 in St. Ignace.

US-2 is the northernmost east-west U.S. Route in the country. With this route running parallel to the Lake Michigan shoreline, you will be greeted with beautiful views in every direction.

North, east, south, or west, all roads out of Mackinaw City will lead you to the spectacular natural displays of color brought on by the autumn chill.

The Guide • August/September 2015

唀瀀挀漀洀椀渀最 䔀瘀攀渀琀猀 椀渀

䴀愀挀欀椀渀愀眀 䌀椀琀礀

August 22 - 23

⠀㠀 ⤀ 㜀㔀 ⴀ ㄀㘀

September 19 - 20

26th Annual Corvette Crossroads Car Show

Fall Big Mac Shoreline Scenic Bike Tour & Ride

August 22-23

October 9 - 10

Mackinaw City Premier Arts & Crafts Show

October 10

7th Annual Fall Colors Bridge Race

September 7

58th Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk

October 10

Fall Colors Fireworks at Conkling Heritage Park

September 11

Tractor Parade & Bridge Crossing

October 9 - 11

September 11 - 12

19th Annual Hopps of o Fun September 19

Fort Fright

19th Annual Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show & Bridge Parade

Great Pumpkin Hunt October 9 - 18

Fall Shoppers Festival

For more info visit: www.MackinawCity.com w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

3 5

The Grand Finale of Marianne’s hamburger challenge Photos & story

By MARIANNE KUZIMSKI

special to The Guide

For a Day or a Lifetime www.OscodaChamber.com

3 6

The Hamburger Challenge stories have graced The Guide’s pages for two years, and we couldn’t have done it without your help.

Tips from fellow hamburger lovers and faithful readers alike have fueled our need to search out and sample the best burgers in Northeast Michigan, and it has allowed for a scrumptiously, delicious adventure.

In case you missed some of the journey, we felt a quick recap of these Michigan hotspots would be a great way to end this two year journey, as well as leave you with some rules learned along the way.

Do you remember the hamburger that started the Hamburger Challenge?

It seems like yesterday that I ordered the “Island Burger” from Joe’s Coney Island in Houghton Lake after a fellow burger lover insisted I try one. Using fresh ground beef purchased daily from local meat markets (Markiewicz Family Meat Market & RJ’s Best Choice Marketplace), these burger patties are lovingly prepared every morning with Joe’s secret seasoning mix.

It was a wonder that I didn’t get a speeding ticket on the way home as the mouthwatering aroma wafted from the to-go package in the passenger seat.

Finally making it home and cracking open the container, a gigantic, sesame seed bun with layers of ooey-gooey deliciousness sat nestled within red and white checkered paper reminiscent of those old checkered table clothes. It had ‘comfort’ written all over it, and tasted every bit like heaven on a bun.

Rule 1: A fellow hamburger lover’s tip is usually spot on!

It was an undercover operation at the Thirsty Sturgeon Bar & Grille in Wolverine. The mission: to gather intelligence about the best hamburger at the establishment without tipping off the server.

Although my cover had been jeopardized after hauling out a camera to document the evidence, it was a most enjoyable visit to sample the Western Burger; a huge, 1/2-pounder made with fresh ground beef from the Circle M Ranch, topped with Plath’s smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, onion rings, and barbecue sauce served on a toasted artisan brioche bun.

As it was served, I noted the red and white checkered The Guide • August/September 2015

paper (again) peeking out from under this gorgeously displayed burger and wondered, “Was this a sign of hamburger greatness?”

Sinking my teeth into this meaty delight, I was pleasantly surprised that the beef was lightly seasoned allowing the fresh, meaty flavor to captain this big, beefy ship. Adding just enough barbecue sauce to compliment the rest of the crew on board, I couldn’t wait for another bite.

Rule 2: Red and white checkered paper is a good sign.

Just whisper the name, “The Mess,” and perhaps you will witness a local hamburger lover sigh in remembrance.

After Tony Decker’s closed in Oscoda back in the ‘80s, everyone thought the Mess Burger would never be tasted again. Luckily, stories of this legendary hamburger’s greatness carried on until the recipe was resurrected at the Hilltop Bar & Grill with help from Facebook fans who remembered it.

At receiving my very own Mess Burger, I wondered right

away how it could be standing upright, it was piled so high with ingredients.

This burger was indeed hard to eat, and once you latched onto it, it was impossible to set back down without it becoming something of an abstract across the tabletop. Luckily, it was delivered with a stack of napkins.

This burger was a delicious mess!

Rule 3: Legends never die.

I simply adored the 1/2-pound “Burger Tower” stacked high atop a golden, pretzel bun at Fred’s of Roscommon. It was apparent after the first bite I would be a little sticky after finishing this beefy tower of deliciousness.

This burger was so flavorful that I wasn’t willing to set it down to reach for a napkin when its juicy, drippy, sweet-hot flavors danced along my taste buds, and began its trek down wrists to soak into shirt sleeves. It wasn’t until a bite of jalapeño that I had to reach for the water glass.

Afterward, our waitress shared that the Burger Tower had won 1st place in a 2013 Northern Michigan hamburger competition against 11 other contenders. After enjoying one myself, I can certainly understand why it received the honor.

Rule 4: Great burgers win contests!

What about the time our very own Scott Nunn attempted the “10 Pound Hamburger Challenge” at the AuSable River Restaurant in Mio? I think he gave up at the 20 minute mark, which was a great bonus for me because I got to have some.

Although this burger monstrosity beat the pants off of our contender and cost him $39.95 for his meal (which he took home for dinner), the fresh and delicious, “Darn Near Organic” ground beef from Pampered Beef in Fairview is used in all of AuSable River Restaurant’s hamburgers.

Rule 5: A 10 pound burger is impossible to eat in one hour.

Remember when we went to Sporty’s Wing Shack & Smoke House in Pinconning and tried the “Garbage Burger?” Although this place was more known for their hot wings, it was an eye-opening experience for some of Sporty’s regulars when they saw the 1/2-pound Garbage Burgers arriving at our table.

Loaded up with onions, pickles, green peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, mushrooms, olives, ketchup, mustard, mayo, Swiss & American cheese, all on a toasted Kaiser roll; it was quite the feat scooping it up from the plate without all the ingredients flying out from under its lid.

Attempting a first bite by nibbling down the side of the burger until all ingredients were delivered in one mouthful caused a lot of obnoxious slurping of drippy condiments as they fled the confines of the grilled Kaiser roll.

With each bite of the Garbage Burger, another ingredient popped out and said hello to awaiting taste buds, and the dirty napkins began stacking up after mopping off drippy hands, faces, and any other surfaces in range of defiling.

It was at Sporty’s that the napkin test became a meter for ooey-gooey, deliciousness.

Rule 6: You can’t judge a burger by its name.

Blimey! Ye probably never forgot the time we dropped anchor at Barnacle Bill’s in East Tawas. We hit the mother lode with their fresh, $1.99 1/4-pound hamburgers at their Tuesday, “Burger Bar Special.”

Shiver me timbers! It was set up much like ye fancy salad bars. Jest take yer fresh, grilled burger up to the bar and dress it up any way ye like!

Rule 7: Burger bars are not just fun!

The “Rascal Burger” at Rascal Jakk’s in Vanderbilt was another highly recommended hamburger. Described as a hand-crafted, gourmet burger, this fresh, beef patty (from Dowker’s Meat Market in Gaylord) was grilled to my specifications, layered with sautéed onions, mushrooms, bacon, and topped with yummy, melted w w w . f a c ebo o k . c o m/mic higa n . guide

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gouda cheese sauce.

Catching my husband in the act of practically inhaling this burger while I was on a mission for an emergency stack of napkins, it’s a wonder I even got a second taste.

Finding less than half of a remaining Rascal Burger cradled in his gooey hands, he declared, “This is the best burger I have ever had!”

How he had decided the Rascal Burger was HIS, I’m not at all sure, but I couldn’t agree more with his declaration.

Ooey- gooey, and gouda-cheesy with mushrooms, onions and a bacon kicker. This burger was stacked, and better than delicious. It was one of the best hamburgers I too have ever eaten!

Rule 8: Never leave your significant other alone with your hamburger.

Of course, there was the unforgettable “Scooby Burger” that sang to my taste buds in super-deluxe style at Clear Lake Bar in Clear Lake.

A 1/2-pound, deluxe burger loaded up with all your faves: ketchup, mustard, mayo, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, and both Swiss and American cheese. This burger was a juicy, flavorful deluxe burger that I would order again and again.

How far would you drive for a Scooby Snack?

Rule 9: You never know where in Northeast Michigan you’ll find another great hamburger.

Order it the easy way with everything, or any old way you please. You won’t be disappointed when you sink your teeth into a “Big C” from Clyde’s Drive-In in St. Ignace.

The Big C is a gigantic mouthful of three, 1/4-pound beef patties strategically stacked on a bun, slathered with drippy condiments, and shipped out the door with a bag of napkins on the side. I ordered mine with everything, meaning ketchup, mustard, onions, relish, and pickles.

Just trying to fit a bite of this monstrosity in your mouth is a task on its own.

Juicy, meaty, and delicious, I can understand why hamburger lovers take at least one road trip a year to Clyde’s.

Rule 10: You know it’s a great burger when you’re willing to drive three hours to get one.

After another hamburger recommendation, we took a trip to the Black Sheep Baa & Grill in Cheboygan to try their build-your-own, “Black Angus Burgers.”

Fretting over hamburger toppings, I quickly discovered that it didn’t matter what toppings were chosen so long as the hamburger was made with a great cut of beef.

We were quickly put at ease after learning these burgers are made with FRESH, Black Angus Beef shipped in twice weekly from a meat market in Wisconsin.

We had fun creating three different burgers to sample, but the grilled onion, cheddar, and barbecue burger was particularly yummy.

Delivered open-face to display the toppings, I found it difficult to tear my eyes away from the melting cheeses oozing down the sides of the thick, beef patties.

Smashing the two halves together so you don’t lose any delicious trimmings was the next step.

There was little time for small talk between copious mouthfuls of juicy hamburger bites harmonizing with the sounds of smacking lips and the slurping of fingertips.

And while chowing down, there were wonderful little topping tidbits popping out all over the place, making this burger a minimum three napkin venture.

Rule 11: Great burgers start with great beef.

The “Lud’s Giantburger” at the Big Boy in Alpena was a gigantic, beefy patty made just like it was at the legendary Lud’s Burgers years ago. This 6-ounce, all beef patty was covered with both sautéed and raw onions, lettuce, American cheese, pickles and the Giantburger signature sauce; all within a toasted, sesame seed bun.

The Guide • August/September 2015

It not only arrived neatly wrapped in Big Boy monogrammed paper sporting the familiar, red and white checker pattern, it hogged the entire surface area of the plate it sat on.

After unwrapping it, I quickly discovered that the Giantburger was NOT the prettiest burger ever witnessed, and eating it wasn’t much prettier.

An experience near worthy of a bib and goggles, this burger dripped down both hands with pure, hamburger lover’s delight and sent my taste buds to dancing a jig.

This beast was a four napkin burger for sure!

Rule 12: You can’t judge a burger by looks alone.

Serving only the freshest USDA Choice Beef cut, trimmed and ground fresh daily, I was shocked at the Wagon Wheel Inn of West Branch when asked at what temperature I preferred the burger cooked.

From the 10 hamburger choices, the “John Wayne Burger” layered with melted cheddar cheese, a thick wedge of grilled onion, and sweet barbecue sauce quickly proved the theory that a truly wonderful hamburger would make its owner greedy and possessive.

As drizzly, warm juices greased my lips and dripped down my chin, a moan of pleasure emanated not from me, but from my cohort in crime, Sue Davidson, revealing her true colors as a fellow Hamburger Junkie.

Coaxing her to let go her death grip on the John Wayne and try a taste of the other burger was met with snarls of defiance and an arm wrapped possessively around her plate.

On our way home, Sue shared that this burger was one of the best ones she had ever eaten, and I quite agree.

Rule 13: A truly wonderful hamburger will make its owner greedy and possessive.

Last, but certainly not least, call it “Luck of the Irish” that I had driven the wrong direction while on the last hamburger quest, and wound up at Paul’s Pub in Johannesburg for a “Pub Burger.”

Offering 1/3-pound, all-beef patties made with FRESH ground beef from Dowker’s Meat Market in Gaylord, I requested grilled portabella strips, bacon and Swiss cheese on this build-your-own burger, and I couldn’t wait to see if luck was truly on my side.

As the first bite burst into my mouth with layers of delectable flavor, the rest of the burger seemed to explode in my hands as if a hamburger bomb went off. Too good to wipe on a napkin, the gooey drippings coated every finger, and like a child, I licked every digit clean, unconcerned if anyone witnessed my atrocious manners.

Finding myself at Paul’s Pub was certainly lucky for this burger lover!

Rule 14: You know it’s a great burger when you disregard the napkins.

And there you have it! Two years of Hamburger Bliss that can be found in beautiful, Northeast Michigan. I wonder what delights we will be discovering for you next?

— Marianne Kuzimski lives in Houghton Lake with her husband Kurt. Besides a passion for photography, Marianne is a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys a good glass of wine and great food of all kinds, not just burgers.

While we are drawing a close to Marianne’s Hamburger Challenge, this is not the end of The Guide’s food reviews.

Watch for what Marianne has up her sleeve next.

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