Hillsdale Surgical Group
Dr. William Morgan
Wild game Recipes a guide to michigan ski resorts
Fall Fun & Swap meets
Date night survey results
VIETNAM MEMOIR Part II PLUS
HILLSDALE/LENAWEE/JACKSON/BRANCH
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After an August that felt like it was straight out of the Everglades, I am enjoying the cooler and less-humid weather!
This issue will acquaint you with Dr. William Morgan, the new general surgeon at Hillsdale Hospital. Dr. Morgan hales from the Jackson area and is excited to be offering surgical care to our community.
Ever heard of a GMC Typhoon? Check out this issue’s car article and learn about this high-powered SUV from the early 90s that was recently acquired by Ryan Griffiths. (He’s having way too much fun with his “new” vehicle!)
Looking ahead to fall and winter sports, we’ve included a detailed article covering the ski areas throughout the state along with one that covers ways to preserve game safely. As fall hunting begins, you might want to consider some methods beside or in addition to simply freezing your meat and poultry.
The second part of Don Winchell’s Vietnam memoir is here and we have another contribution from Bill Chapel. It’s been great to receive articles from area men for this magazine!
However you enjoy fall, we hope you have a great one.
EDITOR
Melissa McCance
SALES
Heidi Lanius
Hannah Sayles
Sherry Sheffer
Cyndi Young
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Dakota Harding
PHOTOGRAPHY
Synergy in Motion Studios
WRITERS
James Campbell
Melissa McCance
Don Winchell
William Chapel
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.
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 casaofhillsdale@gmail.com.
#changeachildsstory
Help Us Reach Every Child!
Every child in foster care deserves to have a CASA volunteer to advocate for them. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we run completely off of grants and donations. We do not charge for our services. You can help us in this quest by providing critical financial support.
Hillsdale County's Court Appointed Special Advocate program is in need of new volunteers, especially men, to advocate for abused and neglected children in our community. For more information on the next new volunteer training, please contact Heather Upton, Executive Director, at 517-425-4145 or email director@hillsdalecasa.org.
Accupoint Pain Management - 22
Arrow Swift Printing - 36
Baxter Lawn & Snow - 36
Becker & Scrivens - 19
Belson Asphalt - 9
Bildner & Donahue - 9
Board of Public Utilities BPU - 52
Bob Evans Farm - 52
Breathe Free Duct Cleaning - 45
Broad Street Auto Service, LLC - 17
CASA - 6
Chris Hodos, Frank Beck - 21
City Collision - 25
Coldwater Auto - 5
County of Hillsdale Veterans - 17
Coldwell Banker Groves Real Estate
James & Marlanea - 53
Cottage Inn Pizza - 35
D&D Heating & Cooling - 45
D-P Equipment Co., Inc - 19
El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant - 55
Gene’s Auto Service, LLC - 9
Glory to God - 30
Green Energy LP - 37
Griffiths Mechanical - 37
Hillsdale County Community Foundation - 14
HD Mechanical LLC - 31
Hillsdale GMC - 7
Hillsdale Hospital - 2
Hillsdale Medical Associates - 17, 31
Hillsdale Terminal - 52
Hillsdale Towing - 31
Imperial Weld & Repair - 52
Jakes Concrete - 25
Jilly Beans - 31
Jonesville Lumber - 3
Kelly’s Furniture - 19
Litchfield Regional Training Center - 36
Lorrie Miller Law, PLC - 19
M & S Construction - 9
Performance Automotive - 39
Pittsford Gas & Tire - 30
Point Rental & Sales - 55
PRIME Fitness - 15, 52
Pub & Grub - 7
Ramshackle Brewing Co. - 39
Rob Sayles/Stillwell Ford - 36
Ryan & Bradshaw - 30
R S Custom Exhaust, LLC - 34
Salmon Run Campground - 39 Skppys - 31
Spratt’s Trading Post - 21
Stillwell Ford - 56
Stoll Construction - 14
Southern Michigan RV - 4
Ten East Treasures - 5
The Truck Store - 25
Rd, Hillsdale, MI 49242 I 517-437-7334
For some individuals, the path to a career has many turns and twists before the goal is reached. Others might not have had a specific career in mind but traveled through a number of jobs in a number of fields before landing in the right one. But, for some, there’s a defining moment when something clicks and that person knows, “This! This is what I want to do!” Learn more about Dr. Morgan on page 10.
For some individuals, the path to a career has many turns and twists before the goal is reached. Others might not have had a specific career in mind but traveled through a number of jobs in a number of fields before landing in the right one. But, for some, there’s a defining moment when something clicks and that person knows, “This! This is what I want to do!”
That was the experience of Dr. William Morgan who joined the team at Hillsdale Surgical Group, Hillsdale Hospital’s general surgery practice, in August. Dr. Morgan’s mother worked as an operating room nurse, and she introduced her son to a surgeon in Jackson when Dr. Morgan was in high school. After being allowed to observe a surgery, he realized that he had found his future career.
Dr. Morgan grew up in Jackson and graduated from Jackson High School. He then attended Northern Michigan University where he majored in English and minored in biology and chemistry. His medical degree was earned at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2018. From there, Dr. Morgan entered a general surgical residency at University of Michigan HealthWest in Wyoming, Michigan. While pursuing his surgical training, he also served as a clinical associate professor and surgical skills lab instructor at MSU’s Department of Osteopathic Surgical Specialties.
One aspect of surgery that Dr. Morgan particularly likes is knowing that when he meets patients in need of surgical care, he is able to help them and get them back to their lives in a relatively short amount of time. Being a general surgeon allows him to handle a variety of procedures in his
Story by Melissa McCance
practice which he enjoys. Many people don’t realize that surgery can be physically difficult as it requires working with extreme care and focus for extended hours. Dr. Morgan says some surgeries have that challenge but, with newer technologies, surgeons can work with the same degree of precision and care in less time which is better and safer for the patient.
“Sometimes it’s more mentally challenging than it is physically challenging,” explains Dr. Morgan. “The workups can be challenging and there’s always the question of ensuring that surgery is truly the right option in each circumstance before you go ahead.” In urgent surgical situations such as appendicitis, for example, you’re not only dealing with a critical medical situation but you also have a patient who can be in intense pain and may be very frightened. This means the surgeon has to be reassuring while still gathering essential information.
When asked if there is any additional training or specialization he might want to pursue, Dr. Morgan says that thyroid surgery and minimally invasive techniques utilizing laparoscopic and robotic technology interest him.
Dr. Morgan has been very pleased by the warm welcome he’s received since joining the surgical practice and is settling in well. “Everyone’s been great—hospital, office, clinics. I feel I’ve landed in a great place. I’m excited to be here and to be taking care of this community. Everyone deserves quality health care whether in a large city or a small town.”
On the personal side, Dr. Morgan is married with a three-year-old daughter and another child due in February. In addition, the household is enlivened by a dog named Chief. When he has some free time, Dr. Morgan enjoys golf in the summer and skiing in winter with reading for quieter times.
Hillsdale Surgical Group is located in Suite 260 at Three Meadows Medical Building, 451 Hidden Meadows Drive in Hillsdale. If you have questions or would like additional information, you can reach them at 517437-5350.
“After being allowed to observe a surgery, he realized that he had found his future career.”
Music can always add to a gettogether. The New JBL Xtreme 2 is a great waterproof bluetooth speaker that can be taken anywhere. Newly updated with better sound and full waterproof rating, so this speaker can get wet with no worries. It has a rugged build and, best of all, the sound quality is great. This speaker is great for anyone who likes music and features 15 hours of battery life.
The best gadgets for men are captivating, purposeful, and unique! If you’re after a special new toy, the following selection of interesting gadgets is for you. We’ve chosen highly-practical gadgets for everyday use, those for fun and entertainment, and even some quirky and intriguing items you never knew existed!
This clever stash light is military grade with a toothy metal case and additional compartments. Inside, you’ll find a fire striker tin and all-purpose tape, a must for the outdoorsman looking for some stability while in the backcountry.
Any survivalist or prepper would like the Dango Tactical EDC Wallet. Designed to hold up to 12 cards and made with 6061-grade aluminum and genuine leather reinforced with mil-spec bolts. The wallet also comes with RFID blocking to secure your card information.
The Dango has 10 multi-tool functions. It can be used as a saw, knife, paracord tensioner, 10/15mm hex, smartphone stand, nail pryer, ruler, etc. All the tools can be easily removed when traveling. I don’t think airlines will like you onboard with the tools in this wallet.
Here is another item that will help you track the weather. Netatmo Smart Weather Station is a smart device that collects all information related to weather conditions and makes the information available to you by relaying it to your smartphone or computer as notifications. Great for weather geeks and the Netatmo Smart Weather Station gives you the ability to track weather in your backyard for a more accurate prediction.
If he likes a cold one, he’ll love this mini keg. It can hold 128 ounces and, while beer is the go-to here, it can also handle wine, cocktails, and NA drinks. Plus, it’ll pour fresh and remain effervescent (if it started that way), making for a great and refreshing sip every time.
If he has a man cave, it’s not complete without a good table tennis table. This one will inspire years of competitive matches and good fun, made by a company with six decades of experience. And, it can fold up should he want to play solo now and again.
With a decanter like this, you’ll always have a sip waiting for you at the bottom of the 9th. Handcrafted by the team at Infused, this eyecatching baseball bat decanter set will showcase 750ml of your finest. After your next game, pop the glass stopper and pour yourself a drink in one of the four baseball-themed glasses, then place the bat back on the wooden display stand.
I was driving nights when our company got in a large ambush going to Xuan Loc one day. Some of our trucks got burned up. In the ambush seven Americans were killed, eight wounded. We lost four trucks and two ACAV 39s (Armored Cavalry Assault Vehicles.) None of the men killed were from our company. [End of Part One]
The most scared I have ever been occurred on the night of 28 October 1966. We were in the second largest ammo (ammunition) dump in the world. It was pitch black in there, so we just rested in our trucks. When it got time to load ammo on our trucks, they would bring these huge lights on a generator and illuminate the area. The cranes would load our trucks. It was hot, and we just had our boots and pants on, and we were playing football on the dirt road that was being lighted.
A couple of our guys had driven a truck into the village to get some pop when all of a sudden, we heard small arms fire which doesn’t occur in an ammo dump. We started to run for our trucks and to get our M-14 rifles, helmets and flak vests, when all of a sudden, a huge explosion went off. A huge ball of fire went up into a big mushroom. AII of us thought that it was an atomic blast, and we were
about to die. We were within a quarter mile of it, so it got extremely quiet where we were, and all of the big pieces of shrapnel were thrown out away from us. It actually broke windows 14 miles away in Saigon. We just laid down by our trucks as we had no idea what would happen next.
A while later an Army jeep pulled up with blood all over the inside. Two Americans had had their throats cut by the sappers that came through the wire and blew up the propellant charges for 175mm Howitzer shells. Another guy and I were the only two Spec. 4s (the highest-ranking people present), so the other guy volunteers me! He said, “Do you want to make a run for it,” and I said “No.” So he said, “Set up a perimeter, check on your men, and I’ll be back later.” We were so scared that knew we didn’t have to check too carefully as nobody was going to fall asleep.
Back in the 60s there were a lot of racial problems, and the Army was no exception. I remember distinctly having an African American on my left and a Mexican American on my right. We laid in the mud looking for any movement out in the dark. We were all equally scared and knowing that we needed each other.
To make it even worse, an American fighter jet flew
My mother had trained me well as I remember, for when I was laying down in that mud, I thought that “Oh! I’m going to get my pants dirty!” I had always enjoyed going to church but didn’t really know a lotabout Jesus. While l was lying in that mud, I remember praying to God and saying: “If you get me out of this alive, I will act better and serve you” A couple of hours later, we drove out under blackout light conditions and had to drive around huge pieces of shrapnel partially buried in the road. The rest of my tour in Vietnam when it got dark, I got slightly sick to my stomach.
Scan the code with your phone to find Michigan Veteran Events! 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. COUNTY OF HILLSDALE VETERANS SERVICES Director of Veteran Affairs Renae Shircliff — r.shircliff@co.hillsdale.mi.us 33 McCollum St. Suite 108, Hillsdale • 517-437-3630 Automotive & Light Truck Repair 166 S. Broad St. Hillsdale, MI 49242 Bryan T. Jeffrey Owner/Mechanic 9
What’s up guys?! Been a minute. We’re going to talk nutrition again. I know that as of late I’ve been struggling with hitting my macros consistently and assume others are too. For me personally, summer is harder because I’m affected negatively by the heat to the extent that I’m just not as hungry. However, no matter the season, your goals need fuel.
I’ve been talking with some members of the gym, too, and I’ve realized that there are some lost opportunities. Some peeps are getting results but could be hitting so many more goals if they were dialed in.
First of all, YOU NEED TO HIT MACROS!! If you are going to hit goals and continue to be a beast, you most definitely need to hit macros (proteins, carbs, fats). Now, we aren’t going to be ridiculous about it. By that I mean we aren’t going to go off the deep end when we miss our protein by 15 grams on Monday. We’re going to wake up and start over on Tuesday and Wednesday and so on. At the end of the week, we want to be sitting right at out totals. We’re going to fall a tad short one day
and go over another. It’s not meant to be without flaw, I mean we’re human and we have cravings.
With cravings, or foods we just love that don’t add up nutritionally, we label as “bad.” Truth is, there are no bad foods. There are foods that help get you the macros you need and others that will leave you unbalanced at the end of the day. Now, if you know you’re going to eat a fatty food and it’s going to cost you a significant amount of you daily allowance, you need to recognize that and reconfigure your macros accordingly.
Food prep is the win! Take time to plan your week and you’ll see your plans take shape and success will follow. Don’t just prep food and put it in a container, MEASURE IT!! You need to know where you sit and to know that you need to know what exactly you have. I suggest measuring in ounces, too, not cups. Not everyone’s cups measure the same, but 8 ounces is 8 ounces. I know it takes time, but do your goals matter to you? Do you want your time in the gym and now in the kitchen to
spawn success? We already know the answers to these questions.
I love hearing success stories and new ways to make life just a little easier, so feel free to share on PRIME’s social media—maybe someone else could benefit from your successes as well. With that, if you need help or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re all on this Earth trying to make the best of life after all!!
Turning 64 soon, I realize remarkably that some of my richest moments were as a kid. Not that I had a pristine childhood. I sure didn’t. Do any of us? But I vividly remember innocent thoughts regarding security and family that far outweigh and remain solid versus the distractions and confusion that would build and enter into that equation from many directions.
Like laying awake at night near the end of long winter, longing for the sound of gravel crunching under my bike tires. Wishing that I could enjoy all of life as much as playing ghost runner in the yard with my brothers so much we had to be called in because of darkness. Or, my dad stopping the hay wagon in the lane on the way to the barn to eat the ripe sweet cherries off the trees from the top of the last load of hay, now celebrating the day’s work will get done. Spending the night at a new friend’s house, allowing that connection to go deeper somehow and extend into family situations. I could go on thankfully and, hopefully, so could you.
Eventually, these moments would get challenged by real life. Each household differently by measure, but challenged just the same. Childhood slips away into a growth of responsibility that can be oh, so confusing. Like, holding on for dear life and
not caring about a thing at the same time. “It will sort itself out eventually.” Oh, really?
If you have been blessed to bring about miraculous life yourself and have had the opportunity to raise a kid or two, you have witnessed these expressions and learned even more about yourself while hopefully teaching them more to hang on than not care. If you have been doubly blessed or even more you’ve had that opportunity expanded. Eyes and heart opened more and more . . . .
Recently, I had the opportunity to spend the day with my grandchildren Ella (age five) and Jackson (age three). I purchased a marble game for fun to take with me—for fun certainly. They were very excited as usual for something new and unknown to satisfy that craving for joy. Me, too! It consists of wooden blocks to be constructed into a marble run. Some blocks with chutes, others with curves, and others with holes to drop the marbles down as the blocks were built up. The blocks, however, had no connectors so they had to be stacked precisely in order for the marble to wind its way down from the top so we could enjoy its travel as reward for the build.
Due to the precision needed to pull it off, I was the engineer. After about a half-hour build, it was time to fulfill all its glory and ours. But, first, a rambunctious, oblivious three-year-old would send the structure crashing down! Three times!!! Each build with mounting patience and increased coaching to the little monster. His sister observed, knowing her brother much better than I. When I insisted to him the only we way are going to enjoy this purchase’s intent was TO BE CAREFUL, Ella replied on his behalf, “He doesn’t know how to be careful.” Brilliant!!! She nailed it! Such a precious moment delivered in raw innocence. And yet so true.
So true that I myself was allowed through the conduit of love, childhood, and life to ask myself—do I know how to be careful? The reading of the Bible has given me this lifelong learning awareness. I pose Psalm 119:67 to you: “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.” How many towers must come crashing down and built back up by the patience of God and His truth before we realize it’s Him?
For 20 years, Mark McClanahan CRNA, NSPM-C, has made it his life’s mission to serve his patients and help them achieve an improved quality of life.
Specializing in interventional pain management, Mark recently started his own business—Accupoint Pain Management, Inc.
“I’ve been doing anesthesia the past 20 years in Michigan,” Mark says.
In 2002, Mark, a lifelong Michigan resident, graduated with honors from Wayne State University with a Master’s of Science in Nurse Anesthesiology. For the first 18 years of his career, Mark specialized in acute pain management, spending most of his time in operating rooms.
“Working in acute pain management, I would only be interacting with patients for 24 hours and then they are gone,” he explains. “In 2021, I went back and completed a fellowship in interventional pain management,” he says to have his own patients.
This Mark did at The University of South Florida before spending a year in Iowa training with Dr. Keith Barnhill, one of the top experts in advanced pain management in the nation in 2021. After Mark completed his training, he became one of the first fellowship-trained CRNAs in the state of Michigan. Mark is board certified in both anesthesia and non-surgical pain management.
“I now specialize in treating spinal pain while also treating low back, leg, neck, and arm pain,” he says.
Following his licensing, Mark began working at Hillsdale
Hospital. It was not long, though, before Mark decided to set out on his own and start his own business in Hillsdale, treating patients struggling with pain management.
“One of my biggest goals with patients is to ensure they can have the fewest number of visits with the most amount of pain relief,” Mark says.
Mark says he prides himself on not only prioritizing the relationship with the patient but also working closely with local primary care providers and physicians, as well as physical therapists, chiropractors, and behavioral health specialists so the patient receives the best care.
“It’s a collaborative relationship,” he says. “My goal is to educate the patient, not just treat.”
His new clinic specializes in long-term non-surgical low back and leg pain (sciatica), as well as neck and arm pain. While Mark will often work to help treat patients so they can avoid surgery, if surgery becomes necessary, he also will work with them to ensure continuation of care after surgery.
Mark explains that educating the patient about their condition is critical to long-lasting improvements.
“Patients need to be very involved in their care,” Mark says. “It is also critical to establish a rapport with the patient and work with both them and their families.”
Mark meshes quality patient care with the latest cuttingedge technological advances in comprehensive pain management.
“My approach is holistic. Medications, physical therapy, and exercise therapy including aqua therapy can all be used together to give patients hope they will be able to improve their pain while doing so on their terms.”
Mark is excited to expand his business to treat even more patients.
“We are already planning to open another center in the fall in Marshall, Michigan.”
Accupoint Pain Management, Inc. is located in the Medical Plaza at 3271 W. Carleton Rd., Hillsdale, Michigan.
Both former and new patients must receive a referral from their primary physician before scheduling an appointment with Mark. Referrals can be sent to info@ accupointpain.com and Accupoint can be reached at 517-797-4476.
Mark
NSPM-C is excited to announce he has returned to Hillsdale, Michigan, to take patients at Accupoint Pain Management, INC beginning June 12th.
Mark has over 20 years of experience in Anesthesia and is board-certified and fellowship trained in interventional pain management.
Mark
CRNA, NSPM-C
The most sold model (2 and 4 seats), The X3 Xrs Turbo RR is renowned for its 22inch suspension, leading to incredible overland performance. Rocky terrain, frequent slopes, and off-camber turn hold no challenge for this vehicle, especially since passengers barely notice the difference. With its widened stance, 72inch wheelbase, and 24-inch suspension, the RS Turbo RR version is designed for the most demanding topography.
Coming in at an eye-watering $962, the CKMPT12 from ARB has the performance to match the price. Its twin-motor, dual-cylinder pump can supply 6.16 cubic feet per minute, making this the highest-flowing compressor in its class. Once deployed, it gives you the ability to fill the 1-gallon air tank in just under a minute. After reaching its peak pressure between 135 and 150 psi, the compressor supplies sufficient power to rapidly air up your tires, pressurize a shower system, or even drive most air tools. Our only complaint was with how short the cables are. Still, it’s worth it for such a capable package that also fits inside a box that you can throw in your trunk.
No sled delivers more smiles-per-mile for our fun-loving flatland test riders than the 650 Indy XCR. It combines a quick-reacting 650 Patriot twin with a lightweight Matryx chassis, which provides superb ergonomics and premium handling. With the short (by modern standards) 129-inch track, the XCR pivots on a dime in the twisties. A quick stab on the surprisingly quick Hayes brake and a shift of your body position will send you in full control toward the next turn. Yet it tracks straight and true when bounding through a series of huge powerline moguls. Suspension and chassis reinforcements let you ride it like you stole it, with a guilty grin. This much fun probably shouldn’t be legal.
Little known fact: Michigan comes in second for the most ski areas in the United States. Between the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula, there are more than 40 ski areas that call the Great Lakes state home. Whether you’re a skier or snowboarder looking for a challenge or a family of four looking for a nice weekend getaway, nearly every region in Michigan has something to offer.
Get the inside scoop on where to go and tips that help you enjoy a day or weekend on the slopes with this exhaustive list of ski resorts around Pure Michigan.
When most people think of “heading up north,” they usually are looking toward Michigan’s northwest lower peninsula, and for good reason. This region is home to one of the best snowbelts in the state, thanks largely to classic lake effect snows we see rolling in off the big lake. If you’re lucky to catch a storm cycle, be prepared because when it’s good, it’s really good.
With 16 runs ranging from beginner to advanced, there is a ski trail for everyone at Mt. Holiday. In addition to skiing, travelers can enjoy ziplining and tubing.
Michigan 115 (M-115) is the start of ski areas in the northern lower. Just 90 minutes north of Grand Rapids and a quick jaunt west on M55 in Cadillac will bring you to Caberfae Peaks. Boasting a family-friendly atmosphere, what Caberfae might lack in frills and over-the-top resort amenities they more than make up for by getting back to the core of skiing and snowboarding. With 34 runs, Caberfae brings 485 vertical feet and a wide-open backcountry area that’s lift-accessible, they are possibly one of the most affordable ski areas in Michigan as
well. Day and night skiing is available at Caberfae, and, for the best deals, get your tickets online before you even leave home. A full-service demo and rental shop are on-site for those who need equipment. The recently refreshed Mackenzie Lodge offers up ski in, ski out accommodations.
Crystal Mountain – Thompsonville
Head 31 miles northwest of Cadillac and you’ll reach Crystal Mountain—a favorite amongst many looking for a weekend getaway with ample on-site lodging. If there is one theme that stands out the most at Crystal, it’s family. With 58 runs of varied terrain and 375 vertical feet, this is a spot where everyone in your group will find a run they like.
Crystal Mountain has a full-service demo and rental fleet on hand if you don’t have your own equipment. Ski and snowboard lessons are available for all ages and abilities starting at three years old so there’s no excuse for why your entire family cannot get out and enjoy the slopes. For those looking for great off-hill experiences, rent a fat bike and go for a ride in the snow, or relax after a day on the slopes at Crystal’s award-winning spa.
On-site lodging is available for nearly every budget, and even the simple, no-frills hotel rooms found in the Hamlet still offer a near ski in, ski out experience. If you forgot something or need some snacks for your stay, check out the new Mountain Market for grocery items.
Bay Mountain at The Homestead – Glen Arbor
Lake Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Bay and the impressive Sleeping Bear Dunes dominate the views from atop Bay Mountain to provide a ski experience unlike any other in Michigan.
Hickory Hills Ski Area – Traverse City
Each year thousands of recreational enthusiasts enjoy the Hickory Hills Ski Area for snowboarding, alpine skiing, crosscountry skiing, and recreational snowshoeing in beautiful Traverse City.
Petoskey Winter Sports Park – Petoskey
A go-to spot that has it all: sledding, ice skating, hockey, skiing, and snowboarding. The park also features a warming house complete with a fireplace, concession stand, and board games available to check out.
Challenge Mountain – Boyne City
Established in 1984 as a non-profit organization, Challenge Mountain was the first independent adaptive skiing program in northern Michigan. Today, Challenge Mountain offers a wide variety of opportunities that continue to en rich lives and empower individuals living with dis abilities through year-round adaptive recreation.
Situated midway be tween Sleeping Bear
Dunes and the Mackinac Bridge is Antrim County, which is by far one of the snowiest counties in the lower peninsula and perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Boyne Mountain Resort – Boyne Falls
Boyne Mountain Resort has a vari ety of activities. Come winter, guests can take advantage of more than 60 downhill trails, enjoy cross country skiing, fat tire biking, horseback riding, ice skating, ziplining, snowshoeing, and tubing.
With over 432 acres, 53 runs, three ter rain parks and eight lifts, The Highlands at Harbor Springs has trails for all levels of ski enthusiasts. The resort also offers a range of lodging from deluxe rooms and condos to cottages. The resort is also home to a tubing park, zip line adven tures, horseback riding, and more.
With snowmobiling, snowshoeing, horse back riding, tubing, and more, Treetops
has the perfect mix of family activities. As an added bonus, kids six and under can ski for free with a paying adult.
Fifty-three runs can be found at Shanty Creek between Schuss Mountain and Summit Mountain. While both Schuss and Summit offer up a great variety of terrain, for a more family-focused resort feel and beginner to intermediate runs, check out Summit Mountain. If you’re after steeps, terrain parks, and long runs, get over to Schuss for some runs.
A true destination resort, accommodations on-site at Shanty
Serving Michigan since 1949, Snow Snake is a popular family destination for skiing and snow tubing.
Whether you’re a local of Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Holland, or Grand Haven looking to sneak in some mid-week turns or you’re heading up from Chicago or South Bend, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some great snow. When the weather is right, the southwest Lower Peninsula benefits from famous lake effect snow coming in off Lake Michigan.
Enjoy 18 runs (one at 1,800 feet), two terrain parks, and racing programs when you ski at Cannonsburg. Guests can also enjoy tubing and a special program for girls ages three to five called Mountain Minnies which encourages young girls to try snow sports.
Nestled in the hills just steps from the beaches in Grand Haven resides a great community secret known as Mulligan’s Hollow. The ski bowl, the former site of a WWII boot camp training United States Coast Guard members, is now a full-fledged community ski area right on the lakeshore. Open Thursday through Sunday and select school holidays, Mulligan’s Hollow is home to six trails all served by a network of five rope tows. It’s a great value, especially for those with children, as parents ski for free with their kids! Ditch your poles, grab an older pair of gloves and head out to Grand Haven to take some turns under the lights at the ski bowl of Mulligan’s Hollow.
A bit northwest of Kalamazoo in Otsego, you will find Bittersweet Resort. As it’s just off U.S. 131 and only one hour and 40 minutes from South Bend, Bittersweet is an easy choice for many. With 20 runs and 350 vertical feet, the terrain at Bittersweet is far from flat. A great mix of terrain welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. In fact, Bittersweet has one of the more competitive ski race leagues in the state. If you do not have your own gear, no need to worry, Bittersweet has a full rental fleet with skis, snowboards, and helmets. Ski families in the area take note of Bittersweet’s family season ski passes. Whether you’re a family of two or four, Bittersweet has some great season packages to make sure you get out and enjoy the slopes in an affordable manner.
When the temperature drops, head to the historic Timber Ridge Ski Area, Southwest Michigan’s oldest ski hill. Here, you’ll find skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and other snow sports in Gobles.
Often overlooked by many in the state, you don’t have to go very far to enjoy some great skiing and snowboarding in the southeast portion of Michigan.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking to get some mileage on your skis mid-week before heading north, or you’re in town looking for some winter adventure, a few ski areas are sure to deliver.
Alpine Valley Ski Area – White Lake Township
Located off of M-59 just west of Waterford Township is Alpine Valley. Home hill of 2018 Team U.S.A. Snowboarder, Kyle Mack, Alpine Valley has some of the most scenic views in the area. With 25 runs and 4 terrain parks, Alpine Valley is one of the largest ski areas in southern Michigan. Rentals are available for skiers and snowboarders, making Alpine a perfect spot for those in the area not looking to own a bunch of equipment. Lift ticket options range from full-day passes to evening only, making this a perfect spot for after work.
Pine Knob Ski and Snowboard Resort – Clarkston
The closest resort to Detroit, Pine Knob offers various slopes and trails as well as three terrain parks and ski lessons for beginners.
Mt. Brighton Ski Area – Brighton
Renovated by Vail Resorts for the 2013/2014 season, Mt. Brighton is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders in southeast Michigan. Vail Resorts are known for their skier services and positive experiences both on and off the slopes, and Mt. Brighton follows suit. Twenty-four runs can be found of varied terrain at Mt. Brighton and with a great split of beginner, intermediate and advanced options, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Swiss Valley Ski Area – Jones
Swiss Valley is conveniently located in Jones, Michigan, enticing folks to visit from all over southern Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. Here, you’ll find 11 runs, a 225 vertical foot peak (the highest in Southwest Michigan) and seven lifts, including two quads and one triple.
Mount Holly – Holly
Nestled in Groveland Township near Holly there’s no other ski area quite like Mt. Holly. The ski area’s seven chairlifts include Southeastern Michigan’s only high-speed detachable quad, three rope tows, and two SunKid Wonder Carpets.
Skiing & Snowboarding in the Up per Peninsula
At some point, you owe it to yourself to plan a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The U.P. is home to some of the biggest snowfalls in the country!
Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort – Mohawk
The Keweenaw Peninsula is home to the famed Mount Bohemia where the average snowfall is in the 270” range and 900 vertical feet. Located just 45 minutes north of Houghton in the Keweenaw, Bohemia is not for the faint of heart. The 585 acres of skiable terrain is all backcountry-style, meaning no groomers here. 2 main lifts service the ski area with a fleet of shuttle buses that get you back to either should you get too far away. A destination in and of itself, if you’re looking to plan a trip, book your accommodations early as many weekends will sell out in advance. Yurts are prime options for staying on-site at Bohemia, but if you’re looking for the creature comforts of a hotel, plan to stay down in Houghton. If you are really feeling adventurous, book a Snowcat skiing trip at Voodoo Mountain. Mt. Bohemia’s sister ski area, Voodoo offers up a unique experience not found elsewhere east of the Mississippi.
Marquette Mountain Ski Area – Marquette
Marquette is best known as the home of Northern Michigan University, but the local ski hill, Marquette Mountain, delivers great views of Lake Superior. Smaller in scale with only 18 runs, Marquette Mountain brings the feeling of a community ski area versus a destination resort. While no lodging is available on-site, check out the nearby lodging options noted on the Marquette Mountain website.
Bessemer Area Skiing
If you’re planning a U.P. ski trip, make sure you take time to west to Bessemer. Just east of the Michigan/Wisconsin border you will find three great ski areas in the area: Blackjack Mountain, Indianhead Mountain, and Big Powderhorn are all within a 20-minute drive of one another.
Blackjack Mountain—Big Snow Resort and Indianhead Mountain are under the same management group which means one lift ticket gets you access to 56 runs between the two. If you’re looking for more mellow terrain for the beginner and intermediate, stick to Blackjack. For those looking for steeper and longer runs, the frontside of Indianhead delivers. There is plenty of affordable on-site lodging options from hotel rooms to condos and chalets.
Ranked one of the top five Midwest ski resorts, a stop-off at Big Powderhorn should be in order while visiting Bessemer. With 45 runs, multiple terrain parks, and an average of 17 feet of snow each year, Powderhorn is a destination on its own in the western U.P. All ages and skill levels can appreciate the terrain at Powderhorn with an even mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Bessemer is Big Snow Country and it is certainly worth the trek through the western U.P. to explore all there is.
Mt. Zion – Ironwood
Located on the campus of Gogebic Community College, Mt. Zion is the oldest winter recreation complex in “Big Snow Country.” With equipment rentals, Learn to Ski programs and GCC’s nationally recognized Ski Area Management Program, this location is a great place for learners and seasoned snow sports enthusiasts.
Mont Ripley at Michigan Tech – Houghton
Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing for Michigan Technological University and the public. As the oldest ski area in Michigan in the snowiest city in the Midwest, Mont Ripley is a true alpine town experience: 22 trails, a terrain park, tubing park, and a scenic overlook of the Keweenaw Waterway.
Pine Mountain Resort – Iron Mountain
Set among scenic mountain views and sprawling pine forests, Pine Mountain is consistently ranked one of the best lift ticket values in the Midwest.
Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park – Ontonagon
The Porkies is truly a family resort that provides a winter sports experience fitting every family member: first-timers, aspiring intermediates, thrill-seeking advanced athletes, and park rats who want a taste of natural features. Snowboarders, alpine, and telemark skiers can experience an unparalleled variety of terrain from well-groomed runs to powder stashes. You can enjoy everything from green comfortable runs to thrilling black diamonds and from open runs to nicely-shaped glades.
Ski Brule – Iron River
Ski Brule is a premier ski resort in the Upper Peninsula, located near the Wisconsin/Michigan border. Ski Brule is perfect for a day trip or a weekend get-away and offers winter activities for everyone: skiing, snowboarding, terrain parks, snow tubing, and trails for fat-tire biking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Families will love the resort’s sleigh rides and kids’ programs, and anyone can work on perfecting trick jumps with the Acrobag, a giant inflatable bag at the bottom of a five-foot jump!
Wherever you decide to go, keep in mind that planning ahead and booking early will save you money and the hassle once on-site. From the beginner to advanced skier or snowboarder seeking adventure to a full-on family getaway, Michigan’s ski areas offer up something for everyone. Get outside and enjoy all that Michigan has to offer in the winter months.
About the Author: Jason Dodge resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is the founder of BlackTruck Media + Marketing and editor-at-large of Michigan Ski Report, a website dedicated to highlighting the culture of skiing and snowboarding in Michigan.
Owners: Jeff Valentine and Mike Peiffer
SATURDAY:
CUSTOM
BANNERS
LARGE
VISUAL
In 1992, GMC brought out a limitedrun SUV that redefined what SUVs could be. Based on the two-door, S-15 Jimmy, the Typhoon is ramped up with aggressive body design, sculpted black leather interior, and a turbocharged and intercooled 4.3-liter V-6 which produces 280 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 350 pound-feet of torque at 3600. Yes, in 2023 that pales a bit compared to what a Hellcat engine will do, for example, but, 30 years ago . . . it rocked! Its 5.3 second 0 to 60 mph beat that year’s Ferrari 348ts and the Ford Mustang V-8. The vehicle was only produced in 1992 and 1993 with a total run of 4,697 units.
Ryan Griffiths recently acquired a beautiful 1992 from the original owner. The SUV is in excellent condition and Ryan got a number of fun bits of memorabilia with it such as the window sticker, all original manuals, and a complete record of all gas purchases and mileage per tank. We asked him to share with us his take on his new SUV.
What about the Typhoon made you want to own it?
Many reasons! I have been a motor head for as long as I can recall. My father is a huge part of this and I am thankful for working in his shop, learning about cars and also being in a few of his highpowered Camaros when I was a kid.
The Typhoon . . . the only word that came to mind is AMAZING when revealed by GMC in 1992. I was 11 at the time and the Typhoon (and sister truck the Syclone) was “The Car!” TURBOCHARGED— that was unheard of at the time and being able to own this car at 42 years old took me back to my childhood.
Being able to purchase a car from a family who also has a love for high-performance is a large part of this. Being ordered and purchased locally is always an interest for me. EVERY car has a story and this story is one of my favorites to tell.
What are you enjoying most about it?
The feeling of being in 1992 again! The dash, gauges, and the simplicity of the Typhoon. When times were easy, cars were smaller, less technology (e.g., cassette decks in the dash).
Did anything about it surprise you?
The power of the vehicle was the most surprising and anticipated part of the first drive.
Any plans for car shows?
I’m not much for car shows. My collection is driven by my family and my work family. We’ve been to a couple shows and I always make sure my work family (employees, but I refuse to call them that)
great time with their families brings more joy than anything else.
Is this a vehicle you think you’ll keep longterm?
I never know what the future will hold, but, with the rarity of the Typhoon, I plan to keep it for a while. I offered my oldest son who graduated this year a choice of any car in the collection, and he
Hillsdale
Hillsdale County Fair:
Tuff Truck & Car Race
-September 24
International Demo Derby
-September 26
Western Days Ministries
Rodeo -September 27
Thunder Thursday Truck Pulls
-September 28
NTPA Truck & Tractor Pulls
-September 29
International Demo Derby
-September 30
Lenawee
Taste of Lenawee 2023
-October 6
Annual Auto Swap Meet
-October 8
CR Motors of Adrian
TRUNK OR TREAT
-October 25
Branch
Fall Pumpkin Train
-October 8
RIDE BEHIND OUR STEAM LOCOMOTIVES AND VISIT THE TOWN OF QUINCY. WHILE THERE, GET YOUR PUMPKINS FOR HALLOWEEN. PUMPKINS ARE CASH ONLY.
Jackson
Jackson Auto Swap Meet Show:
January 20, 2024
8 am To 2 pm
Michigan Sport Facility 3055 Shirley Dr.Jackson, MI 49201
Life gets hectic and those moments alone don’t come very often, but they are worth the dedication. It is crucial to plan one-on-one time where you and your partner can laugh, talk, and connect on a deeper level, free from distractions. As couples, we often let date night slip by until we feel it’s absolutely necessary. The truth is, having regular dates is an important part of building a strong relationship. In fact, according to a report by the National Marriage Project, couples that have consistent date nights are more likely to classify their relationship as “very happy.” We all know it’s hard to make the time but date night should not be a “once in a blue moon” event. It is important to strengthen your relationship consistently by planning date nights.
Whether you’re trying to plan your first date with someone or you want to spend some quality time with your long-term partner, planning the perfect date can be tough. It sounds simple enough: get together, go to a nice restaurant, maybe see a movie. So then, why do we have so much trouble planning or deciding what to do on a date?
We decided to take a survey on what women really want to do on a date. The results may surprise you!
Ages 18 – 29
Wanted the nightlife including a fun dinner with drinks such as a Japanese steakhouse or an exciting race event.
Ages 60 – 69
Women of this age group wanted to watch a ball game, golf, or go to the races and grab a bite to eat at a nice restaurant.
Ages 30 – 39
This group is up for an active date including kayaking or bowling followed by dinner and drinks.
Ages 70 – 75
These women were up for an earlier date including shopping, pickle ball or a play at the theatre.
Ages 40 – 59
We were split between daytime dates and the nightlife with this group. Fishing and farmers markets were popular as well as dinner with drinks in the evening.
About 45 minutes north of Grand Rapids, Michigan, there’s a little town called Grant. This fun little town sits by the mighty Muskegon River and is the home of our destination: Salmon Run Campground. It’s Thursday when we pull in and the campground is only beginning to come alive before the weekend rush. Our friends have already set up camp and we have a riverfront campsite. It’s beautiful. The park is clean with modern washrooms, a pool, volleyball, game room, and park store for all the little things you may have forgotten.
As we sit around the campfire discussing our week, I can hear the river flowing and the cool night air is reminding me summer is coming to an end soon. I can’t help smiling as some of my closest friends are with me and making me realize how much fun the simple things in life are like a good joke around the campfire or, a “hey, you just gotta be there” joke from the year before.
So, after an evening of drinks and snacks from our local farmers market back home, we’re off to bed. Our good friend Ryan has
snagged us a 36-foot, class A motorhome to camp with them in. This is a perk for working at Bish‘s RV in Coldwater, Michigan. This RV is a beauty! As I head off to bed, I sneak a peek out the window and see a group of guys setting up tents in the site beside us. I can see it must be a guy’sonly trip and I can hear them laughing and cutting up and it makes me smile.
Next morning, we wake up to the smell of coffee brewing and my best girlfriend is up and hands me a cup. We head outside, the river is beautiful, the fog is slightly setting over the river, and the fresh smells from the woods and river are taking over my senses. It is so relaxing!
Midmorning is here and we head over to Nelson’s orchard, known for their freshly-baked pastries. The variety is amazing and too hard to decide on, so we get a little of everything from a huge cinnamon roll to huge homemade custard donuts. We also grab some fresh produce and we head back to our campsite. Once we arrive, we stop back in to our local camp store. It’s really starting to fill up—the campground is sold out this weekend.
We met the new owners, George and Melinda, and through our conversation and George’s strong accent, we find they are originally from Hungary. They have a pretty incredible story of how they came about being the new owners of the campground, so we invite them over for a few drinks later to get the story. When I say George is a pretty funny guy, I mean the guy had us rolling for a good hour talking about how they came to America and the crazy adventures and challenges they had coming to America some 20 years ago. George and Melinda were awesome as were the rest of their staff and you can tell they really love their jobs.
Well, everyone has arrived and it’s Saturday morning—river trip day! The day we’ve been planning since last year‘s trip. We’re all up early drinking fresh brewed, cherry coffee from Nelson’s and eating yesterday’s pastries. Yum! Now for the moment we’ve all been waiting for: Bloody Marys.
Now on to cooler assembly with drinks, Jell-O shots, and snacks. Off we go to the river bus. You choose your float method—canoe, kayak, or rafts—but we love the lazy, “let the river take you whatever way” to float . . . tubing! As we load up into one of three buses, it’s impossible not to hear the excitement in everyone’s voices from the older couple in their late 60s beside us to the families with kids and the largest groups like us full of friends, ready to have a fun-filled day of laughter on the river.
After about a 15-minute bus ride, we are at our destination. It’s 75° and sunny at 12 o’clock, and it’s apparent the river is the place to be. It’s packed full of young and old as we tie off and get ready to launch into the swiftly-moving river. For the next four hours we’re floating downriver, stopping and enjoying the water, having a few adult drinks, and laughing until our stomachs hurt. We finally arrive back to our destinations and the staff is waiting to pluck us from the water making sure we exit the river safely. We slowly carry our cooler of empty cans and shells of Jell-O shots back to the campsite. It’s been another one for the books. The campfire is on and burgers and brats are on the grill. Cool night air is starting to set in.
Yes, I love Michigan! Until next time, thanks, Salmon Run Campground.
"Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after."
- HENRY DAVID THOREAU
Brian Edwards Kalamazoo River
Josh Damron Marshall MI
Corbin Craddock Hillsdale MI
Ryan Lanius Hillsdale MI
Bentley Chapin Age 4
Marv ConcordDane MI
Cooper Henion Parma MI
Kris Post North Adams MI
Henry Marshall MI
Jordan Havasy Battle Creek MI
Roger Brinks
Kevin Grubbs
Cody AddisonAshby MI
Westin Parma MI
www.ag.ndsu.edu/food
Freezing Game Meats
Most wild game will keep up to one year frozen without loss of quality. Vacuum packaging of meat before freezing will help maintain excellent quality of the meat. In most states, hunting laws require that all wild game be used before the next hunting season. Check regulations for the amount of game you can keep and length of time that you can keep it.
Curing and Smoking Game
One purpose in curing meat is to make a high-quality meat product for future use. Only properly butchered and thoroughly cooled meats should be used. Fresh meats can be home-cured by two methods: dry cure or pickle cure (often called sweet pickle cure). Traditionally, dry-cured meats were not injected with sweet pickle; however, when temperature control is difficult or impossible, injecting “pickle” helps to ensure a safe, high-quality product. The purpose of injecting or pumping is to distribute pickle ingredients throughout the interior of the meat so that curing begins on the inside and cures outward at the same time that curing begins on the outside and works inward. This protects the meat against spoilage and provides a more even curing.
Drying or “Jerkying”
Drying or “jerkying” meat is an art that has been known since the dawn of civilization.
Corning Game
Venison, antelope, moose, bear, or beef can be corned following the same method. People who usually do not like wild meats may like them corned, as corning takes out the musky wild flavor and tenderizes the toughest wild meats. A good piece of round is wonderful corned, but less desirable cuts of meat like the brisket can be corned, too.
Canning Game
Only good quality, properly cleaned, and cooled game should be canned. To ensure safety of canned meats, meat must be processed in a pressure canner to reach a sufficiently high temperature for a long enough time to kill all bacteria that cause spoilage or food poisoning. Large game animals are canned like beef. Small game animals and birds are canned like poultry. Either type of meat can be raw packed or hot packed.
Making Sausage
The lean trimmings from wild game make an excellent meat for sausage production. Try one of your favorite recipes and substitute wild game or fowl trimmings for the beef portions.
Freezing Fish
Special care should be taken with fish because it tends to dry out more quickly than other meats. Glazing with ice or freezing in water are good methods of freezing fish. For ice glazing, place cleaned, eviscerated fresh fish in a tray in freezer. When frozen, dip in near-freezing ice water. Place fish again in freezer to harden the glaze. Repeat dipping fish until about 1/8 inch of ice coating has been formed. Overwrap with film, freezer paper of foil. To freeze in water, fill freezer container (clean milk cartons can be used) with water. Add whole fish or fish fillets. Completely cover fish with water, then seal and freeze. Whole dressed fish probably freezes best this way. Note: The authors have had good results freezing fish for long periods of time by wrapping dressed fresh fish in plastic wrap and then wrapping again in aluminum foil.
While the term “pickled fish” sometimes is used to include fish cured in brine, it should be applied only to those products in which vinegar is used. Only a few types of fish are preserved commercially by pickling, but almost any species may be prepared for home use.
(Blue, mackerel, salmon, steelhead, trout, and other fatty fish except tuna) Although freezing is the easiest way to preserve fish, canning does offer some advantages, particularly if one lacks freezer space. The only safe way to process fish is in a pressure canner. Fish that has been frozen can be safely canned; thaw fish in a refrigerator and can promptly. Follow recommended canning procedures carefully. Caution: Eviscerate fish within two hours after they are caught. Keep cleaned fish on ice until ready to can. Fish may be canned with its bones. They add to the flavor and nutritive value of the product; however, it is recommended only pint or smaller containers be used.
This traditional venison stroganoff features cubes of tender venison paired with mushrooms and onions in a creamy sauce spiked with red wine. Served over egg noodles it’s the perfect wild game comfort dish
·1 lb cubed venison (roast or backstrap is fine)
1 cup onion (sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
·8 oz. button mushrooms (sliced)
4 tablespoons butter
·½ cup all-purpose flour
·1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon nutmeg
·¼ cup red wine
·1 pint sour cream
2 pints cream of mushroom
soup (homemade is best)
Begin by preheating oven to 325 ° F and combine flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a small bowl or plate. Melt butter in an oven safe, deep skillet (cast iron preferably). Add your onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
While the onion and garlic are cooking, dredge your venison through the flour mixture, coating each side. Add the coated venison to the skillet, browning it on each side Then, throw in the mushrooms to sauté for a few moments.
Stir in red wine and allow it to simmer for just a moment before stirring in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well blended. Remove pan from heat, cover with lid, and place it in preheated oven for 45 minutes to an hour
When cooking time is almost up, boil water and cook egg noodles Serve hot over egg noodles or stir them in
To make a long story short, this recipe does this piece of meat pure justice without fussing to much with the meat itself The whiskey sauce complements it perfectly as well. This recipe is a keeper and absolutely delicious! Even for non-hunters, this recipe follows suit with beef tenderloin and will go great with the sauce as well!
For the meat
1 elk tenderloin
Montreal steak seasoning
·garlic salt
·olive oil
For the sauce
·1 onion, chopped
·8 Tablespoons butter
1 cup whiskey
1 cup beef broth
·½ cup heavy whipping cream
·¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Dash of salt and pepper
·*Thicken with a dash of gravy flour, if needed.*
Take your tenderloin and drizzle with a little olive oil Spice the meat with all the spices to your liking Doesn't take much just sprinkle to lightly coat the meat. Allow to sit and become close to room temp marinating in extra juices and spices on a dish
Caramelize your onions in a pan over medium high heat with the butter Once onions are translucent, turn down heat and slowly stir in your whiskey Allow to simmer until half of mixture evaporates and strong whiskey smell subsides. Once that has happened, stir in the beef broth and allow to simmer and thicken Stir in heavy whipping cream allowing it to continue to bubble Sprinkle some salt and pepper and let sauce simmer and continue to thicken. If sauce seems to still be a little loose, add some gravy flour, whisking it in quickly
Heat your grill to a medium heat for grilling meat Once heated, start to grill your meat Allow 5-8 minutes on each side depending on size Spoon on extra spices and olive oil from the bottom of the dish during the cooking process for extra flavor. Remember to take your meat off a little early since it will continue to cook as it sits Let it sit as a whole piece for about 5 minutes before slicing down
Cut against the grain and serve with whiskey sauce drizzled over the top! Enjoy with a beer or cocktail and some heavenly side dishes!
Bon Appetit and live, laugh, love, and HUNT!
A classic and hearty one-dish meal to warm up your family on a chilly evening.
1-2 cups wild game of choice
·1 potato
·1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
·½ cup butter
·1 small yellow onion, chopped
½ cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
·2 cups stock (wild game, chicken, or beef)
·¾ cup whole milk
·salt and pepper to taste
·1 pie crust or biscuit topping of choice
Chop up potato, add to a small saucepan, and cover with water Bring to a boil and cook until the potato can be pierced with a fork.
Once the potato is about done, add frozen vegetables and cook a few more minutes until they begin to soften Remove from heat, drain, and pour into a large mixing bowl.
In a large saucepan, melt butter Add chopped onion and cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.
Stir in flour, salt, and pepper and cook until bubbly
Add stock and milk and bring to a boil, stirring constantly Cook and stir until slightly thickened, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and pour over vegetables
Add cooked meat to the bowl and stir until combined. Pour into ramekins or pie plate
Top with pie or biscuit crust of choice
Bake at 425 ° F for 40-45 minutes (pie plate) or 15-20 minutes (ramekins) or until crust is slightly brown and filling is bubbly
Allow to cool for several minutes before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Looking for a delicious grilled dessert? This recipe for Cinnamon Grilled Apples is sure to satisfy all your sweet BBQ cravings. These apples are topped with a decadent apple bourbon caramel sauce that’ll knock your socks off.
Cinnamon Grilled Apples
·2 pounds Honeycrisp apples (cored and cut into 1-inchthick wedges)
·¼ cup salted butter (melted)
·2 tablespoons brown sugar
·1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon grated nutmeg
·4 cups vanilla ice cream
Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce
·1 cup granulated sugar
·¼ cup water
·1 cup cream
1 tablespoon apple bourbon
·pinch of salt
Preheat your grill to 375 ° F for 2 zone cooking, one side hot and direct heat, one side cooler with indirect heat
Prepare the caramel sauce Pour the sugar and the water into a medium saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and swirl the water and sugar until it dissolves Simmer the water and sugar together, without stirring, until it turns a warm amber color and reaches 350 ° F (about 15 minutes). Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream. The caramel will bubble up, so stir quickly If the sugar mixture cools too quickly, your caramel can stay as a sticky ball, separated from the cream If this happens, return the heat to medium and stir until the caramel is smooth Turn off the heat and pour in the apple bourbon and salt and stir to combine. Set aside to cool slightly until the grilled apples are done
Season the apples In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add in the apple wedges and toss to combine
Grill the apples Place the seasoned apples on the direct heat side of your grill. Cook for 3 minutes per side to form nice grill marks. Move the apples to the indirect heat side of the grill and close the lid Cook for 5-7 minutes to soften the apples slightly You want the apples to still retain their shape and integrity but cook to a tender-crisp texture
Plate and serve Remove the apples to your serving dishes Top each portion of apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of the apple bourbon caramel sauce
Due to State budget cuts, we are losing our primary source of funding, but there are many ways that you can help keep our program in the community!
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
is offering a donor match program! The foundation will match donations made through them, up to $10,000! Donations can be dropped off at the Foundation or mailed to them at P.O. Box 276 Hillsdale, MI 49242. Online gifts can be made at their website https://abouthccf.org/
KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS
Visit the Kroger website to link your plus card with Hillsdale CASA and a percentage of quarterly sales are donated directly back to us.
AMAZON SMILE
We are a registered charity with Amazon Smile. Select us as your charity of choice and a percentage of sales will be donated back to us.
Community Action Agency in Hillsdale County partners with Hillsdale County Community Foundation, The Beth Ann Blanchard Children’s Memorial Fund, and Walmart to sponsor the “Warm the Children” campaign to buy new, warm winter clothing for Hillsdale County children in need.
Helping Hands Pregnancy Resource Center (HHPRC), formerly known as Alpha Omega Care Center is located at 46 South Howell Street, Hillsdale, MI. Our mission is to empower men and women to make life-affirming decisions about pregnancy and sexuality through Christ-centered compassion, resources, and education. Established in 1987 under the name of “Alpha Omega Women’s Care Center”, we are the only Crisis Pregnancy Care Center in Hillsdale County. We are a non-profit agency; all our services are provided at no cost to our clients and are received through generous donations from individuals, businesses, and churches throughout Hillsdale County.
Material Assistance: Help for parents who choose life. Once a month, parents can come in for diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, and clothing at no cost.
Pregnancy Tests: No cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests are offered at Helping Hands.
Talk with your financial advisor or accountant about Qualified Charitable Distributions from your IRA, gifting appreciated assets, and donation of real property.
SERVICES INCLUDE:
How it works: Applications are taken (during the application enrollment period) and families and children are served as donated funds become available. Volunteers then go shopping with families. Children must be 16 and under at time of sign up. Families may participate every other year.
Ultrasounds: Coming soon! Fundraising is complete! We hope to offer this service at no cost in early Autumn, 2021 and provide an amazing opportunity to save babies and affirm life.
Designer Purse Bingo will be held September 25th and we are looking for businesses, organizations, or individuals to sponsor purses. Please contact Heather Upton for more info. 517-425-4145 or casaofhillsdale@gmail.com
Earn While You Learn (EWYL): Moms earn “baby bucks” while learning through parenting classes. A wide array of topics span prenatal care through the toddler years, parenting and step-parenting, life skills, as well as special circumstances such as adoption. “Baby Bucks” can be spent in our Blessing Store on new baby/toddler clothing as well as baby tubs, pack ‘n plays, new cribs and mattresses, high chairs, etc.
100% of all donations are used to purchase warm clothing for the children!
Find us on Facebook at Hillsdale CASA, Inc - Child Advocates #changeachildsstory
Numbers: According to our 2019 records, we saw 419 clients. We provided 5,111 diapers and 4,267 items of clothing. Thirty-nine parents attended parenting classes, 303 clients came to our center for material assistance. Fifty-eight potential parents came in for no-cost pregnancy tests. Helping Hands volunteers logged in 1,846 hours.
Name and Logo Change: “Alpha Omega” has special and significant meaning to many in the Hillsdale County community, so WHY did we change our name? We chose a name that clearly and simply represents our mission and services to those who need our help.
For more information contact CAA in Hillsdale County: — 517-437-3346.
Vitally Important Parent (VIP): Dads are important, too! These classes are just like EWYL, but are focused on the important role fathers play in the lives of their children. “Dad Dollars” are earned and can be spent in the Blessing Store, as well.
Visit Helping Hands at www.helpinghandsprc.org and follow them at facebook.com/hhprchillsdale
Outdoor kitchens have moved beyond a standalone grill with a small cook space Outdoor kitchen features can include bars with sinks, grills that rival any indoor cooking range, appliances such as stainless-steel refrigerators, cabinets, grill islands, and luxurious countertops putting within reach everything to make a delicious meal and/or the perfect beverage.
A well-designed outdoor kitchen works together with its indoor counterpart when cooking or entertaining guests and complements a home s architecture and landscaping Outdoor kitchen appliances and materials should be durable and designed to withstand the elements.
