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from the publisher Fall has arrived, bringing with it some of the best traditions of the year—cooler temperatures, changing leaves, hunting season, and weekends filled with football. Around our house, you’ll find us proudly wearing Honolulu blue as Detroit Lions season ticket holders. LET’S GO, LIONS! Marlanea McGraw Owner/Publisher
In this issue, we’re excited to highlight Curt and Monique Sarles of Dice, a local company helping homeowners elevate their spaces with permanent, customizable exterior lighting. Their commitment to enhancing the look and feel of homes year-round makes them a standout in our community and we are honored to spotlight them. As you enjoy this Fall/Winter edition of Everything Men, I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to our loyal readers and the local businesses that make this publication possible. Your continued support allows us to celebrate the people, places, and stories that make our communities strong. Remember, you can take Everything Men with you wherever you go. Our digital edition is always available for easy access at simplyhers.net. Wishing you a safe hunting season, a winning football season, and a wonderful fall and winter!
-Marlanea Publisher, Everything Men
EVERYTHING MEN STAFF GRAPHIC DESIGN
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Elyse Apel Sarah Gray
Sophia Frigerio
SALES
Kristal Johnson Hannah Sayles Sherry Sheffer Cyndi Young
4 Fall/Winter 2026
Beth Jessie
Laura Loveberry
EDITOR Elyse Apel
FOR INFORMATION on how to submit story ideas, concerns, or information on how to advertise, please contact Marlanea McGraw at (517)320-9235 or email sales@simplyhers.net. Everything Men Magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information.
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CONTENT Cover Feature 10
Dice: Light Installation
V
Reclaim Your Edge
14
.......
24 Ride with Fred Watson A ‘52 Classic
26 Time to Hike In Style...
Do Women Live Longer r Than Men? 18 Laura Loveberry
28 Top-Notch Grilling Easy Fall Grilling!
Pure Michigan 22
Hikes, Greenhouses, and Lakes
22 30
On the Cover: Curt and his team are already scheduling for this year’s holiday season. Those interested should reach out soon to get on Simply Dice’s calendar for the 2026 holiday season. Learn more about Dice’s Christmas Light Installation on page 10.
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DICE:
BRINGING LIGHT & JOY TO THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES. ANY SEASON - ANY REASON By Sarah Gray
L
ighting changes the look and feel on the outside of a home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that also feels safe and secure. It adds beauty and ambiance. If a home is a sanctuary, why not feel that sense of peace from the moment you pull into the driveway? There are moments throughout the year when that feeling comes naturally—the small rush of happiness as you turn the corner and see your home glowing for the holidays. But, isn’t it sad when the lights have to come down in January (or sometimes February or March)? Monique and Curt Sarles believe it does not have to be that way, offering a solution: Permanent outdoor lighting through their company called Dice Building Solutions. The couple have traveled all over the United States to visit their children and on a trip to Florida, Monique explains she kept noticing all the outdoor lighting in her daughter’s neighborhood. The look was so appealing and it made all the homes more welcoming. She wants that feeling not only for her own home, but also homes throughout the Hillsdale County community.
Curt, owner of Dice Building Solutions, saw the impact firsthand. After recognizing the appeal and benefits of permanent outdoor lighting, he partnered with Trimlight and became an authorized dealer. Trimlight is one of the first and longest-running permanent outdoor lighting companies. Its systems are professionally installed and come with a lifetime product warranty. The LED lights use less energy than traditional bulbs while maintaining consistent brightness and vibrancy. What sets the system apart, however, is its customization. “Every single bulb is programable,” Curt says. Lights can flicker, move or remain steady. A home can display a single color or a full spectrum, with each bulb set differently. Even neighboring homes with the same system can look completely unique.
“Lights make people happy,” Monique says, adding that with all the stress and difficulties of our lives it is important to “accentuate the “It can be as simple or as complicated as the customer likes,” Curt says. good.” 10 Fall/Winter 2026
All lights are installed under the roof’s soffit, which both keeps the lights more protected from the weather and gives the home a cleaner look. Trimlight works well on any style of home and is also the perfect accentuation to businesses and commercial properties. The system allows users to change lighting designs as often as they like. Displays can be created for major holidays such as Christmas, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Independence Day, as well as for birthdays, graduations and backyard gatherings. Settings can be saved within the Trimlight app, making it easy to switch designs with the tap of a button. Lights can be installed at distances of six, nine, or 12 inches apart, and timers can be set for dusk-to-dawn operation or customized schedules throughout the day. In addition to roofline lighting, Dice offers downlighting, patio lighting, pool lighting and landscape lighting. In addition to enhancing beauty and curb appeal, Trimlight helps keep homes, businesses and properties secure. Not quite ready to make the commitment to permanent outdoor lighting but still wish those Chritsmas lights could just hang themselves? Curt and Monique have you covered. Dice also offers seasonal Christmas light installation. The joy of the Christmas season can be a little brighter without the hassle of detangling lights, searching for extension cords,
braving the cold (and ladders), or worrying if all the lights will actually work this year. Curt’s crews will line rooftops and driveways, fill tall trees and bushes and wrap tree trunks to create the perfect holiday look for any home or business. Homeowners simply need to pick the kind and color of lights they like and let the team do the rest. When the season ends, the team returns to remove the lights and store them for the following year. The lights are sourced from professional suppliers and maintained as needed, removing the burden from homeowners. Simply schedule a time for set up and tear down and enjoy the season. It doesn’t get much better than that! Monique looks forward to her holiday lights going up every year right after Halloween.
“There is a lot of joy in Christmas lights,” she says. “It’s comforting.” Curt and his team are already scheduling for this year’s holiday season. Those interested should reach out soon to get on Simply Dice’s calendar for the 2026 holiday season.
For more information about permanent outdoor lighting, or temporary holiday lighting, call Dice at (517) 297-7100 or visit dicebuildingsolutions.com.
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www.beckerscrivens.com 517-437-4250 | 3340 Beck Rd. • Hillsdale Help Us Reach Every Child!
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Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers are needed now more than ever. For more information please contact Heather Upton by calling (517)797-6020 or email director@hillsdalecasa.org
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www.hillsdalecasa.org 12 Fall/Winter 2026
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F
or Patrick Knight of Hillsdale, a life of service didn’t end when he took off his military uniform. From rescuing downed pilots during the Vietnam War to spending more than three decades protecting his community in law enforcement, Patrick has dedicated much of his life to helping others. Now, Patrick is being recognized for that service. U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg recently named Patrick Michigan’s 5th District Veteran of the Month for July, recognizing his distinguished military service, lengthy career in law enforcement, and commitment to the Hillsdale community. Patrick served in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1970 as a search and rescue helicopter crewman. He was assigned to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron One at Naval Air Station Imperial Beach, California, before later joining Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Seven—better known as the “Sea Devils.” While serving with HC-7, Patrick participated in missions to rescue downed pilots in Vietnam and the surrounding waters. The squadron was credited with rescuing approximately 150 pilots during its service. Patrick’s military honors include the Navy Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. His unit also received the Presidential Unit Citation in 1971. But Patrick’s commitment to serving others continued long after leaving the Navy. He went on to spend 32 years with the Riverview Police Department, including serving as chief. Today, he remains 14 Fall/Winter 2026
involved in his community as a member of VFW Post 1136 in Wyandotte and serves on the boards of Emergency Telephone Services for Hillsdale County and the Hillsdale Senior Center. In announcing the recognition, Walberg praised Patrick for representing the very best of our nation. Patrick Knight’s story is one of courage, commitment and a willingness to serve wherever he was needed. His recognition as Veteran of the Month honors not only his military accomplishments, but a lifetime spent making a difference for others. Congratulations to Patrick Knight, and thank you for your many years of service—to our country and our community.
15
Life is the Berries
DO WOMEN LIVE LONGER THAN MEN? By Laura Loveberry My friend pulled out her phone and showed me the photo above: her husband hammering a nail with one arm while clutching the chimney top with the other. He risked a nearly 40-foot fall, balancing precariously on a ladder wedged against a sheet of plywood, all of it perched atop scaffolding propped on wheels and leveled with random scrap boards—the makeshift structure wrapped around the side of their home under construction. Sheesh! His wife took one glance, her eyes widening, threw her hands in the air, shaking her head, and stomped out of there. There’s no way her anxiety could handle watching this ordeal because if something went slightly wrong . . . the whole thing could come crashing down. Even her Apple Watch notified her of a rapidly racing heart rate. I squinted my eyes at the photo, focusing on the details of the construction phase. A childhood Mattel Mousetrap game flashed into mind. I slap my forehead. Ain’t no way this is OSHA-compliant. Nope. Oh, this improves a wife’s prayer life for her husband. My mind flashes back to my hubster years ago. We begged for roofing quotes for the turret of our Victorian home. Roofers flatout refused the job because our turret peeked high above the village of Quincy. One contractor quoted us a ridiculously high price, knowing we would reject the kabillion dollar quote. No one was foolish enough to take on the risky job. That is no one. . . but my hubster and his best bud. 16 Fall/Winter 2026
Are you kidding me?! When professional roofers backed off the job, my hubster tilted his head, glanced at the turret, and grinned at his best bro with one eyebrow raised. His bud barked back a U.S. Marine-type yell and planted into a vein-popping, fist-pumping, WWE wrestler pose. “Get ‘er done,” they shouted in a touchdown-like celebration. Shaking my head, I listed numerous reasons this idea stinks, including making my bestie and me into young widows. One slight footing mistake and they splat to death! It didn’t matter. There’s no stopping these guys when the eye-ofthe-tiger hits. Game on! There’s a verse in the Bible referring to the brotherhood as standing strong and manly in faith. The “man up” part flashed in my mind. “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong,” (1 Corinthians 16:11). Perhaps this verse is out of context, but they truly ACTED. . . LIKE . . . MEN! Oh course, my man ordered me to get in the car and go anywhere but here. I wasn’t allowed to watch their pre-funeral splat from the sky. I sped to my bestie’s house to pray for our daredevil guys. * This explains how women improve their prayer life and . . . why women live longer than men. *Note: Our manly men all survived their daring feats high into the sky.
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COUNTY OF HILLSDALE VETERANS SERVICES LOCAL SERVICES FOR VETERANS: We can assist veterans in filing for all Federal, State and County Veteran’s benefits. TRANSPORTATION: Hillsdale County offers transportation to Ann Arbor Monday through Thursday by appointment only and for VA Clinic or hospital only.
Director of Veteran Affairs Renae Shircliff — r.shircliff@co.hillsdale.mi.us 33 McCollum St. Suite 108, Hillsdale • 517-437-3630
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Point Iroquois Lighthouse
Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Michigan
Michigan is a top travel destination to experience the outdoors, and there are plenty of opportunities for family-friendly vacations that will create lasting memories. From adventures along pristine trails and beaches to exploring gardens and wildlife from around the world, Michigan has something for the whole family to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Here are some travel ideas for planning your family’s outdoor getaway in Michigan.
Relax Along Michigan’s Beaches Bring a meal and have a picnic while enjoying the sun and fresh air at Michigan beaches. After, the whole family can take a swim in the Great Lakes’ freshwaters, build a spectacular sandcastle or take a relaxing walk down the shore. There are a variety of types of beaches with entirely different attractions to explore. Enjoy a peaceful sunrise on the east coast from picturesque Alpena to Tawas City, or a sunset on the shores on the west coast as you kick back after a long day on the water. You can explore new heights the sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, or the impressive sand dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Silver
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Lake Sand Dunes and more. There’s more than beautiful views to look at along Michigan’s shoreline. Don’t forget to visit one of Michigan’s 129 historic lighthouses. Here you can get a glimpse into the Great Lakes’ maritime past, as well as some one-of-a-kind sightseeing.
Discover Endless Trails With thousands of miles of trails throughout the Upper and Lower peninsulas, there’s an adventure waiting for you no matter your destination. Arranging a day of hiking or biking for the whole family is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Visit one of 103 state parks that offer both a day of fun and diverse trail options, from the old-growth forest at Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling to the historic townsite at Fayette Historic State Park in the central U.P. There are also trails that span statewide, like the Iron Bell Trail that runs thousands
of miles from the western U.P. to Detroit. Or, take a day to explore the North Country Trail, which spans eight states, including the Upper and Lower peninsulas of Michigan. You can also discover trails at local and county parks throughout the state, so you’re never far from a perfect day outside for your vacation. If you’re looking for a new activity to try along Michigan’s trails, you can also try birding. This is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the quiet of the forest while also learning about the Great Lakes State’s native bird species— which ranges from bald eagles to North America’s rarest bird, the Kirtland’s Warbler.
Stroll Through Gardens and Greenhouses
Garden to the peaceful Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden. You can also check out the Conservatory at Matthaei Botanical Gardens in Ann Arbor to experience three different climate zones in one day: tropical, temperate and arid. In Detroit, you can also visit Belle Isle Park to explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, which is the oldest continuallyrunning conservatory in the country. Here visitors can find a collection of rare and exotic plants housed in five different sections, as well as beautiful gardens and a lily pond. After walking the gardens, take a thrilling ride down the Giant Slide. Courtesy of puremichigan.org
Discover Michigan in full bloom at its carefully crafted gardens—and if rain is threatening your plans, take a stroll through unique greenhouses to continue your “outdoor” adventure. Visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids to explore a variety of greenhouses featuring everything from tropical birds to desert cactuses, and step outside to take a walk long barrier-free paths to view their world-class sculpture collection and gardens. Here you can find everything from the interactive Lena Meijer Children’s
Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory at Belle Isle Park | Photo Courtesy of Instagram Fan colindetroit
South Haven Beach | Photo Courtesy of Instagram Fan emmybraasch
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S
ome cars come and go. Others stay with you for a lifetime. For Fred Watson, a 1952-style kit car he assembled in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has been both a labor of love and a steady companion for the past 38 years. Fred purchased the car kit out of Florida after spotting an advertisement while traveling. At the time, he was riding racehorses. “I saw it at the airport,” he explains. “They had an advertisement, and I picked one of them up.” It wasn’t a simple transaction though for a car now worth about $10,000. “It was
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down in Florida. I called him and told him I’d take one,” Fred says. “I started making payments on it, but it took about a year to get it home.” Fred wasn’t buying a ready-for-the road car, he was buying a car kit. “They send you the frame, the body, then you got to put it together,” he says. He assembled the car in Albuquerque, New Mexico, putting in about 120 days of steady work to bring it to life. “You have to cut the fenders out and running boards, and lots of different stuff like that. Put the motor
in, transmission,” Fred explains.
around.”
He chose a Chevrolet Chevette engine and automatic transmission.
Despite nearly four decades on the road, the car has needed very little work over the years. “I put new valves and stuff in it, but that’s all I’ve done,” Fred says. “It’s a great little car.”
“That way, the frame, the front end bolts right on, the back axle bolts right on,” Fred says. It was hands-on work from start to finish, though it wasn’t his first time working on a car.
This summer brings another milestone for Fred and Karen as they prepare to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary, with that car bought all those years ago still a steady part of their days together.
“My dad was a mechanic up in Detroit and I’d go up there and work for him,” Fred explains. “That taught me a lot.”
“We enjoy it something fierce.”
When the build was complete, Watson didn’t tuck the car away. He put it on the road—and kept it there. “I’ve been driving it for about 38 years,” he says. Today, the 1952-style roadster he assembled by hand is more than just a vehicle. It’s a companion, a conversation starter, and a centerpiece of countless small-town celebrations in the Hillsdale County area. Over the decades, the roadster has covered serious ground. Out west, Watson drove it on long stretches of highway, including a 200-mile trip from Albuquerque to Canton, New Mexico.
“It has been all over,” Fred says. “Still runs great.” These days, the car has become a familiar sight in local parades. From the Fourth of July to Memorial Day and Christmas celebrations, Fred and his wife, Karen, decorate it with festive details. “We’ll put Christmas lights on it and let them blink and pretty it up,” he says. “No matter what size of kids they are, they like it . . . From the little ones to the big ones, they wave at you.” But for Fred, the best moments with his car are often the simplest. “Her and I just go for a ride a lot of times in the evening,” Fred explains. “Get to see a lot of deer driving 23
THREE FALL HIKING GEAR ESSENTIALS Back to the basics
Cooler temperatures make fall one of the best seasons for hiking Michigan’s trails. Before heading out, make sure you have these three reliable essentials to stay comfortable, dry and prepared for whatever Michigan might bring.
LAYERING JACKET A lightweight fleece, insulated jacket or packable puffer can provide warmth on chilly mornings without making you too hot once you get moving. Look for breathable materials that are easy to pack away when temperatures rise. A water-resistant or windproof option is even better for the inevitable rainy days.
WATERPROOF HIKING BOOTS
Crisp leaves and cool temperatures may make for beautiful trails, but fall can also bring mud and rain. A sturdy pair of waterproof hiking boots can help keep your feet warm and dry while providing the traction you need on uneven or slippery terrain. Choose boots with supportive soles and comfortable cushioning, especially if you plan to spend several hours on the trail.
TRAIL BACKPACK
A reliable backpack gives you a convenient place to carry everything you might need along the way. Choose a lightweight pack with comfortable, adjustable straps and enough room for water, snacks, an extra layer, and basic first-aid supplies. For longer hikes, consider a pack with a hydration compartment or additional storage. Happy hiking!
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26 Spring/Summer 2026
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2026 2025 30 Fall/Winter Spring/Summer
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32 Spring/Summer 2026
Best Public Fishing Spots in Hillsdale County Baw Beese Lake
Target Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, yellow perch, and northern pike. Access & Facilities: Excellent shoreline access via nearby parks (Owen Memorial Park and Waterworks Park), along with public boat ramps and seasonal dock rentals.
Hemlock Lake
Target Species: Rainbow trout (stocked annually), largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie. Access & Facilities: Equipped with a public DNR boat launch and parking area, making launching easy for small watercraft and motorized fishing boats.
Lewis Emery County Park
Target Species: Largemouth bass, panfish (bluegill and pumpkinseed), and channel catfish. Access & Facilities: Features expansive bank access, fishing piers, open green spaces, and paved parking.
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By Sophia Frigerio
2026 2026 34 Fall/Winter 2025 Spring/Summer
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