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# Freshwater Reporter

A fresh approach to storytelling

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- [Stories](https://freshwater-reporter.com/stories/) - Idlewild’s Black Eden Brews July 8, 2026 No Comments Photo: (From left) Artist Tabitha “Tab” Rasul, Black Eden Brews Owner/Manager Nicolena Stubbs and an unidentified art lover at the “Sacred Lakes and Places” art opening opening inside the coffee shop. Photo courtesy of Nicolena Stubbs. Black Eden Brews, “where coffee and community jive” By Kevin
- [Living the high life: shaken, not stirred](https://freshwater-reporter.com/living-the-high-life-shaken-not-stirred/) - Story and photo by Joshua Elie Have you ever been in surroundings so luxurious that, even though quite pleasurable, you didn't feel like you belonged there? I have. I chose not to live the high life but the life of a simple country boy because that is where I am comfortable. When it comes to
- [Local space enthusiast hopes to reach zero-g](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-space-enthusiast-hopes-to-reach-zero-g/) - Featured photo of a Zero-G Jet by G.R. Mottez, Unsplash. By Pat Stinson Manistee resident Brooke Edwards, Freshwater Reporter's space and astronomy columnist, hopes to win a seat on a zero-gravity flight in a competition offered by Space for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that gives citizens a glimpse of Earth from space through its Citizen
- [Idlewild music fests draw on rich local history](https://freshwater-reporter.com/idlewild-music-fests-draw-on-rich-local-history/) - By Kevin Howell Three Idlewild summer music festivals are carrying on a musical tradition begun 80 years ago in this Lake County community, where the likes of Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, B.B. King and many more once performed. This summer, the 10th Annual Meeks Homecoming Jazz and Blues Festival, the Summer Oasis Music
- [NASA's Artifacts Program for schools, libraries accepting applications](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nasas-artifacts-program-for-schools-libraries-accepting-applications/) - NASA's Artifacts Program Module offers eligible recipients an opportunity to own a piece of NASA for their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educational outreach programs. A scale model of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) like this one is available through the program. Eligible museums, schools, libraries, and other organizations have until Friday, June 30,
- [Idlewild’s Black Eden Brews](https://freshwater-reporter.com/idlewilds-black-eden-brews/) - Photo: (From left) Artist Tabitha "Tab" Rasul, Black Eden Brews Owner/Manager Nicolena Stubbs and an unidentified art lover at the "Sacred Lakes and Places" art opening opening inside the coffee shop. Photo courtesy of Nicolena Stubbs. Black Eden Brews, "where coffee and community jive" By Kevin Howell Opening day for Black Eden Brews was still
- [Old-time radio mystery to haunt the stage](https://freshwater-reporter.com/old-time-radio-mystery-to-haunt-the-stage/) - An old-time radio a family might have gathered around each evening to listen to a mystery or other show. Photo by Mark Saxby, Unsplash.com. From a press announcement MANISTEE ‒ Step into the shadows for an evening of mystery, music and vintage thrills as “The Spectral Silhouette” takes the Ramsdell Theatre stage at 7:30 p.m.,
- [Idlewild historic tour offered](https://freshwater-reporter.com/idlewild-historic-tour-offered/) - Jean Howell looks at a map of the Idlewild community found on a sign outside the Idlewild Historic & Cultural Center in Idlewild. File photo by Kevin Howell. Edited press announcement Just a few spots remain for a special MARJDI (Manistee Area Racial Justice and Diversity Initiative) event taking place in Idlewild, from 10 a.m.
- [Patina announces relocation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/patina-announces-relocation/) - Nikki Schneider, owner of Patina, stands among treasures she sells in her store and gallery, formerly located in Onekama. Courtesy photo. From a news release Patina is relocating to downtown Manistee. The move closes an important chapter for the creative retail and gallery space that has been a familiar fixture in the village of Onekama.
- [Giving Tuesday is Dec. 2](https://freshwater-reporter.com/giving-tuesday-is-dec-2/) - NOTE: This list has been updated from the original published on Nov. 26. Compiled by the editors We gathered a list of nonprofits (and related others) that our writers either featured or referred to as sources in their stories in 2025. Links to their websites or Facebook pages are included. We usually post this list
- [$1.75M SMART trail project moves forward in Manistee County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/1-75m-smart-trail-project-moves-forward-in-manistee-county/) - Kyle Storey, of the Manistee County Planning Department, shares information about the proposed SMARTrails system during the 2019 Copemish Heritage Festival. File photo by Mark Videan. From a press announcement MANISTEE COUNTY, Mich. – After years of planning and coordination led by the nonprofit Friends of SMART (Scenic Manistee Area Recreational Trails), the Thompsonville-Copemish trail
- [History of the Easter Bunny and his eggs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/history-of-the-easter-bunny-and-his-eggs/) - Photo of the Easter Bunny by Grace Grogan. By Grace Grogan Most of us grew up with the Easter Bunny traditions and accept them, but have you ever wondered why a rabbit delivers eggs? Believe it or not, the symbolism of what many consider a pagan tradition during a Christian holiday has religious tones. The
- [Fishing Mason County’s Largest Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fishing-mason-countys-largest-lake/) - By Milton F. Whitmore Hamlin Lake, north of Ludington, offers a 5,000-acre angler’s banquet of warm-water fish species, such as large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, perch, walleye and northern pike. With depths of under 10 feet to more than 70 feet, Hamlin offers a range of fishing experiences. DNR surveys have shown the wisdom
- [Radio show host to recite local poet's verse](https://freshwater-reporter.com/radio-show-host-to-recite-local-poets-verse/) - Bessie Smith (April 15, 1894 – September 26, 1937) was an African American blues singer, nicknamed the Empress of the Blues. Photo of Bessie Smith taken by Carl Van Vechten, Public Domain, Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/pictures/collection/van/, Feb. 3, 1936. Photo restored by Adam Cuerden. From staff reports Public radio will feature a recitation of the
- [Paddle auction to fund new scholarship for students](https://freshwater-reporter.com/paddle-auction-to-fund-new-scholarship-for-students/) - Mason Stapley in his officer's uniform standing beside his mother Heather. Photo courtesy of the Stapley family. From staff reports MANISTEE - Mason Stapley, a 2020 graduate of Brethren High School, worked as a deputy for the Manistee County Sheriff's Office and loved to hunt and fish before he succumbed to a rare type of
- [Community to celebrate local poet's new book](https://freshwater-reporter.com/community-to-celebrate-local-poets-new-book/) - Images courtesy of Motel Bear Lake. Editor's note: This story has been edited and updated to reflect a new event partner and location for the event. By Pat Stinson BEAR LAKE - Poets whose works have appeared in the Freshwater Reporter will read selected poems during a Community Poetry Gathering hosted by Motel Bear Lake
- [Near and Farr Friends’ 2026 programming schedule announced](https://freshwater-reporter.com/near-and-farr-friends-2026-programming-schedule-announced/) - Photo of coffee beans by Merve Sehirli Nasir, Unsplash.com Edited news release ONEKAMA – Near and Farr Friends has announced its 11th year of programs and games for the community. “Attendance continues to build with new and repeat residents,” organizers stated in their news release. In addition to their regular schedule, the group will
- [Captivated by 'snowies'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/captivated-by-snowies/) - Story and photo by Susan Hintz School had just let out for the day, and like most grade-school kids, I was anxious to get home. First, I had to make it past security! Back in the day, security was the outstretched arms of the safety patrol “officer” that helped us cross the street. When his
- [Spotting snowy owls: the original 'snowbirds'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spotting-snowy-owls-the-original-snowbirds/) - A snowy owl takes flight at Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve, Arcadia, Mich. Photo: Carl Freeman By Emily Cook As we watch the winter landscape become more monochromatic, it is also time to focus our eyes on the special winter visitors who may be hiding in plain sight. Snowy owls spend many months of the year,
- [Order your seeds now](https://freshwater-reporter.com/order-your-seeds-now/) - From left: Seed Catalogue cover art from the 1890s. Smithsonian Libraries, Public Domain. Seed art from 1940. Internet Archive Book Images, No restrictions, via Wikimedia Commons. Tomato Seeds in the 1930s. Henry G. Gilbert Nursery and Seed Trade Catalog Collection.; J. Manns & Co., CC BY 2.0. By Mark Banaszak Now is the time to order your
- [Manistee community to celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/manistee-community-to-celebrate-the-life-of-martin-luther-king-jr/) - Edited MARJDI press announcement MANISTEE - On Monday, Jan. 19, which is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a free community meal, documentary film and stories will celebrate the birthday of the civil rights leader and activist who advocated nonviolent resistance against discrimination in the era of Jim Crow. Both the meal and the film are
- [Events to honor farm workers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/events-to-honor-farm-workers/) - Photo of Migrant Sculpture courtesy of the Arts and Culture Alliance of Manistee County. By Cynthia Asiala, volunteer member of the Arts and Culture Alliance of Manistee County and the Manistee Area Racial Justice and Diversity Initiative (MARJDI) Two events ⸻ one in Wellston, the other in downtown Manistee ⸻ will honor and celebrate area
- [Beat the winter blues: 7 tips to stay sane](https://freshwater-reporter.com/beat-the-winter-blues-7-tips-to-stay-sane/) - By Rosalind Jaffe There are two types of northern Michiganders: those who love Michigan winter and those who don’t. The first group gleefully skis, ice-fishes, snowshoes and hikes their way through our lengthy winter. Those in the second camp don’t necessarily hate winter; their attitude switches between ambivalence, dread and acceptance. For those who focus
- [Nature is the best medicine for winter blues](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nature-is-the-best-medicine-for-winter-blues/) - Contributing writer Emily Cook on a fat tire bike rental from Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville. Photo: Joe Frederick. By Emily Cook Weather-wise, January is notorious for being Michigan’s coldest and snowiest month. In recent years, it has also been highlighted as the cloudiest. Despite the gradual increase in technical sunlight hours after the winter solstice,
- [The Heart of a Community](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-heart-of-a-community/) - Images courtesy of Cynthia Asiala. By Cynthia Asiala Volunteers are the heart of most communities. In Kaleva this is especially true. In addition to two churches, a Lions Club, a Snowmobile Club and a volunteer fire department, there are many other groups of volunteers that make the heart of the community. As is true of
- [Thank you, anyway](https://freshwater-reporter.com/thank-you-anyway/) - "Grateful" pencil drawing by Robyn Schmidt. By Christina Ryan-Stoltz There is a spot on my couch where, for a few minutes in the morning, the sunlight streams in through an eastern window and dances on my face. My neighbor's house and a grand old white pine obscure the view the rest of the morning, so
- [Bjorkquist Brothers: commercial fishers of Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bjorkquist-brothers-commercial-fishers-of-manistee/) - Albert and Fred Bjorkquist. Courtesy photo. By Stewart A. McFerran If there was ever a plucky crew of entrepreneurs struggling to build a business and support their families, it was the Bjorkquist brothers of Manistee. In his recently completed manuscript, Dennis Bjorkquist, with the help of students at West Shore Community College in Scottville, highlights
- [Local author weaves a holiday spell](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-author-weaves-a-holiday-spell/) - Book cover photo by P. Stinson. By Pat Stinson Editor's note: This story has been updated with the names and addresses of additional booksellers. Just in time for the holidays, a little book with big messages for young-to-mature adults can be found in area bookstores. “The Wizard’s Dream: A Universal Winter’s Tale” (2021, Singing Road
- [Ring in the holidays at area winter art exhibition](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ring-in-the-holidays-at-area-winter-art-exhibition/) - A member exhibition held previously at Oliver Art Center, Frankfort. File photo courtesy of Oliver Art Center. From staff reports FRANKFORT - A free public reception will be held 5-7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5, to open Oliver Art Center’s Winter Member Exhibition. The annual all-media show features works by members of the art center and
- [Santa and Mrs. Claus to visit Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/santa-and-mrs-claus-to-visit-onekama/) - Photo of Mrs. Claus and Santa courtesy of Dan and Nancy Behring. By Pat Stinson ONEKAMA - At 11 a.m. this Saturday, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fire truck to the Farr Center, 5283 Main St. (M-22), to hear what children want from Santa for Christmas. The jolly couple from the North Pole
- [In gratitude of my own backyard](https://freshwater-reporter.com/in-gratitude-of-my-own-backyard/) - Joe (and Holly) enjoying a summer evening in our backyard. Photo: Emily Cook By Emily Cook Thanksgiving is a complicated holiday in American history. At its core, however, is the titular message of “giving thanks,” a tradition one must appropriately credit to the Indigenous cultures throughout North America. The process of expressing gratitude has been
- [NASA sets date for Artemis 1 moon launch](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nasa-sets-date-for-artemis-1-moon-launch/) - An Artemis launch, seen from the yard of Freshwater Reporter's Florida correspondent Matt Rumpfeldt. By Brooke Edwards Pay attention to NASA TV and the internet on Aug. 29 (2002) when a historic event is scheduled to take place. NASA recently announced a launch window for Artemis 1, the test flight of the Space Launch System
- [Local author begins a new chapter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-author-begins-a-new-chapter/) - Photo of Ludington author Don Hansen inside the Book Mark of Ludington, where readers can find his books prominently displayed. Hansen's books are also available at Hoot and Honey of Manistee. By Pat Stinson Since his retirement from teaching in 2017, Don Hansen has kept himself busy. He had three books published. He moved with
- [First-time birders welcome during Christmas Bird Count](https://freshwater-reporter.com/first-time-birders-welcome-during-christmas-bird-count/) - Mourning doves perched in a plum tree in Manistee Township. Photo: Mark Videan, By Pat Stinson This year marks the 126th annual Christmas Bird Count, a bird census conducted by citizens of the U.S., Canada and Central and South America. The event is coordinated by The National Audubon Society and takes place Dec. 14-Jan. 5.
- [Program to feature area women’s contributions during wartime](https://freshwater-reporter.com/program-to-feature-area-womens-contributions-during-wartime/) - Blanche Moon, (standing, third from right), 1948 Enlisted Sergeant First Class Army - WAC Auxiliary, 1949. Photo courtesy of Lake County Historical Museum. Edited press release BALDWIN - “Lake County Women in War” will be the topic of the next Lake County Historical Museum program, beginning at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 915 N.
- [Sun Day events to celebrate solar power](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sun-day-events-celebrate-solar-power/) - Image created by P. Stinson on the Sun Day website. By Pat Stinson REGION - Today, Sept. 21, is Sun Day, with more than 450 events taking place across the globe to raise awareness about the benefits of solar energy. Solar power is called the "world's cheapest form of energy, with costs declining nearly 90%
- [Northern Natural Cider House announces special fall events](https://freshwater-reporter.com/northern-natural-cider-house-announces-special-fall-events/) - Edited press release, updated from the printed version with a slightly different line-up for Apple Smash this weekend. Photos courtesy of Northern Natural. CHIEF, Mich. — A free Apple Smash event will return here in mid-September after a two-year hiatus, and the 6th annual Chief Day will follow with celebratory activities in mid-October. Both events
- [Kaleva News: Kuka kuoli? (Who died?)](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kaleva-news-kuka-kuoli-who-died/) - Liivi Wiitala's life, and others, will be celebrated during a 4 p.m., Sept. 20, Cemetery Walk in Kaleva. Photo courtesy of C. Asiala. By Cynthia Asiala The Kaleva Historical Society will hold its first Cemetery Walk at 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Maple Grove Township Cemetery, located on the corner of Nine Mile
- [Elberta mural project to anchor pop-up art, music event](https://freshwater-reporter.com/elberta-mural-project-to-anchor-pop-up-art-music-event/) - Sketch of the mural project taking place in Elberta on Aug. 23. Courtesy photo. Edited press release ELBERTA, Mich. – WUWU Community Radio and the Elberta Labor Heritage Center invite community members to participate in “Building the Commons–Elberta” ⸻ a hands-on celebration of creativity, collaboration and community ⸻ to be held 4-7 p.m., Saturday, Aug.
- [BioBlitz to be held Friday in Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bioblitz-to-be-held-friday-in-onekama/) - A guided walk in North Point Park, Onekama. File photo by Pat Stinson. From staff reports North Point Park in Onekama will be the location of the area’s next BioBlitz, an outdoor event that brings together community members, naturalists and scientists to identify as many plant and animal species as they can in a short
- [Bring your antiques to Baldwin and celebrate collecting](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bring-your-antiques-to-baldwin-and-celebrate-collecting/) - Uranium glass, one of the collectibles that can be seen during a June 28 "Evening with the Collectors" at the Lake County Historical Society in Baldwin. By Jill Engleman, Curator, Lake County Historical Society Museum. Photos courtesy of LCHS. The Lake County Historical Society (LCHS) will celebrate the history of collecting with a museum fundraiser
- [Ludington’s fine art fair returns July 5-6](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ludingtons-fine-art-fair-returns-july-5-6/) - West Shore Art Fair file photo courtesy of Ludington Area Center for the Arts. Edited from a news release Fine art in 100 booths, food from 11 vendors and music performed by several groups will fill Ludington’s Rotary Park for the 2025 West Shore Art Fair (WSAF) to be held Saturday, July 5 and Sunday,
- [Area community members rally for 'No Kings'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/area-community-members-rally-for-no-kings/) - Some of the hundreds of protesters, estimated at more than 700, along US-31 in Manistee for the June 14, 2025, 'No Kings' rally. (Photo by Mark Videan, Freshwater Reporter co-editor) By Pat Stinson Updated on June 15 to include news of Ludington's rally, how many rallies were planned in Michigan and how many people attended
- [Benzie ‘global citizen’ to speak during lecture series](https://freshwater-reporter.com/benzie-global-citizen-to-speak-during-lecture-series/) - Image of the African continent by Planet Volumes, Unsplash.com Edited from a news release A narrative of the complex journey that led Benzie County resident Ron Atkinson to become an international citizen will take place at 7 p.m., Thursday, July 10, at the Mills Community House in Benzonia. Atkinson’s presentation, “How a Benzie Boy Became a
- [Brundage: A hidden cemetery and illusions of wilderness](https://freshwater-reporter.com/brundage-a-hidden-cemetery-and-illusions-of-wilderness/) - The Brundage Wilderness Cemetery in Inland Township has plots one foot square. Each plot can hold the cremains of two persons. Photo by Stewart McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran Editor's note: When I read in the paper that my favorite teacher had passed, I researched online where I might pay my respects. Instead, I found
- [Nonprofits we featured in 2024](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nonprofits-we-featured-in-2024/) - By Pat Stinson Once a year, we take a look back at the nonprofit organizations we highlighted or mentioned in our stories. If one of these stories touched you in some way, please consider a donation to the organization mentioned in it. (Be sure to consult your accountant for IRS rules regarding tax deductions.) The
- [Diamonds are forever: event to mark historic crossing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/diamonds-are-forever-event-to-mark-historic-crossing/) - Thompsonville Diamond Crossing. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office is working to preserve a Benzie County diamond, located in Thompsonville. This jewel lies on the ground for all to see but is much too large for a thief to steal. The diamond of railroad tracks marks a place
- [Collect rainwater for your garden](https://freshwater-reporter.com/collect-rainwater-for-your-garden/) - Photo of wooden rain barrel by Waldemar on Unsplash By Mark Banaszak Recent growing seasons in northwest Michigan have been dry. So dry, in fact, that they are classified as drought by the National Weather Service. This has made gardening a little more difficult, especially if you don’t have easy access to water near your
- [Michigan's Underground Railroad](https://freshwater-reporter.com/michigans-underground-railroad/) - The 12-foot-tall sculpture of Sojourner Truth in Monument Park, Battle Creek, where she died in 1883. Truth is at a lectern, representing her 40 years of public speaking for abolition and suffrage in 20 states. Photo: Grace Grogan. By Grace Grogan Editor’s note: This is the second of two stories about the history of slavery
- [Shop soon to support the Freshwater Reporter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/shop-soon-to-support-the-freshwater-reporter/) - From staff reports ONEKAMA, Mich. – Only two weekends remain to shop at the Freshwater Reporter art sale fundraiser. The sale is taking place at Patina, a resale gallery of vintage and repurposed items and local art. The gallery is located at 4850 Main St. (M-22), and gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.,
- [Saxophone quartet to perform in Elberta](https://freshwater-reporter.com/saxophone-quartet-to-perform-in-elberta/) - Photo by Eavon Jazzman, Unsplash.com Edited from a news release A Brown Bag Concert featuring the Cerus Quartet will take place at 1 p.m., Tuesday, June 24, on the outdoor deck of WUWU Community Radio at 526 Lincoln Ave. in Elberta. The free performance will also be broadcast live on 100.1 FM and will stream
- [Creativity to shine during Oliver Art Center 'Member Exhibit'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/creativity-to-shine-during-oliver-art-center-member-exhibit/) - Photo courtesy of Oliver Art Center. Edited from a news release FRANKFORT, Mich. – Hundreds of artworks by local and regional artists will be on display from June 27 through July 26 during the Oliver Art Center’s annual Member Exhibit to be held in the center’s gallery at 132 Coast Guard Rd. "Our member exhibitions
- [Onekama summer concerts announced](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-summer-concerts-announced/) - K. Jones and the Benzie Playboys will perform on June 23 at part of the Monday night summer concert series in Onekama. In front are Kirk Jones on accordion and Mark Stoltz on washboard. Photo courtesy of the band. From staff reports ONEKAMA, Mich. - The Portage Lake Association recently announced the line-up of musicians
- [Northern Natural expands summer music offerings](https://freshwater-reporter.com/northern-natural-expands-summer-music-offerings/) - Edited from a news release Northern Natural Cider House and Winery has announced its summer music line-up to begin this month at its outdoor venue at 7220 Chief Rd., southwest of Kaleva, in Chief. “We will be offering free music every weekend, along with three ticketed concerts, from some of the best musicians in the
- [Free 'Juneteenth' film to be shown](https://freshwater-reporter.com/free-juneteenth-film-to-be-shown/) - Now an open field, the Paradise Club on Paradise Lake was one of several night clubs in Idlewild during the ’40s and ’50s. File photo courtesy of Lake County Historical Society. Edited from a news release The documentary film “The Musicians’ Greenbook” will be shown at the Vogue Theatre, 383 River St., Manistee, at 7
- [What's Brewing in Manistee and Mason counties?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/whats-brewing-in-manistee-and-mason-counties/) - Image for "What's Brewing?" is a photo taken by Gabor Adonyl, Pixabay.com. By Kevin Howell The change from warm summer to autumn’s chill brings the arrival of seasonal flavors found not only in coffee drinks but also in brews, wines, spirits and ciders. We asked local craft-beverage makers what special elixirs are in the works
- [5th annual Chief Day adds pre-party](https://freshwater-reporter.com/5th-annual-chief-day-adds-pre-party/) - Edited from a press release CHIEF — Northern Natural Cider House and Winery will host the 5th Annual Chief Day in downtown Chief, Michigan, on Saturday, Oct. 12. This year, a Chief Day Pre-Party will be held on the winery's grounds on Friday, Oct. 11. Owner Dennis Mackey and his son, General Manager and Head
- [Rosie the Recycler marks 25 years](https://freshwater-reporter.com/rosie-the-recycler-marks-25-years/) - Rosalyn "Rosie" Sadler, on the job at the Hamlin Township Transfer Site north of Ludington in Mason County, Michigan. Photo by Don Hansen. By Don Hansen (Editor's note: This story has been updated to include Rosie's married name of Sadler.) Nestled in the timber off Dewey Road in Hamlin Township is a true treasure ⸺
- ['Early Railways' is Arcadia Daze topic](https://freshwater-reporter.com/early-railways-is-arcadia-daze-topic/) - The Scottville Clown Band performs as members march in the Arcadia Daze festival. File photo by Mark Videan. From staff reports ARCADIA - The 43rd annual Arcadia Daze celebration will begin at 7 p.m., Thursday, July 25, when the Railroad Historical Society of Northwest Michigan will host an hour-long panel discussion about the early railways
- [Taking steps to conserve dark skies in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/taking-steps-to-conserve-dark-skies-in-michigan/) - Northern lights and STEVE, (the vertical streak of red light), Beaver Island, Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve, March 23, 10:06pm -10:07pm. Photo: William Markey. By Kristina Stierholz When was the last time you looked up at night and gazed at the Milky Way stretching across the northern Michigan sky? For Susan Schankin, a Pleasanton Township
- [On the musical road to Idlewild](https://freshwater-reporter.com/on-the-musical-road-to-idlewild/) - By Kevin Howell Last summer, my favorite navigator Jean and I took to the Mason County Cultural Trails, a series of six trails developed by the county’s Cultural Economic Development Task Force. Each trail led us through the heritage and history of the area’s maritime and lumber industries, agriculture, barn quilts and sculptures. “Are we
- [Spring awakens in Benzonia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spring-awakens-in-benzonia/) - Photos by Botony Newton-Knudson. By Botony Newton-Knudson The ice has faded. Winter’s grip, once unyielding over this quiet village, finally loosened beneath the returning sun. Snowbanks shrank like weary giants; their forms dissolved into streams that wove through Benzonia’s thawing streets. The skeletal trees, long stripped bare by the cold, bristled with the first whispers
- [Remembering PFC Erby H. Roper](https://freshwater-reporter.com/remembering-pfc-erby-h-roper/) - LEFT: Erby Roper’s grave in the Henri-Chapell American Cemetery and Memorial in Belgium. Note the pennies on the cross. Designated Visitor Bryan Knapen of Belgian placed the three pennies for Roger Roper, Erby’s brother; Janet Bott Hueston, my cousin and daughter of my Aunt Rolene and her second husband; and me. TOP RIGHT: Erby H.
- [Pride Month activities begin this week in Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pride-month-activities-begin-this-week-in-manistee/) - Painting by Jasper Sowle, part of the "Art Speaks Pride" exhibition through July 6 at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee. From staff reports MANISTEE – Beginning today, the public is invited to attend Pride Month celebrations hosted by various community organizations, including PLAG Manistee (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and
- [Elberta Turtlefest activities planned](https://freshwater-reporter.com/elberta-turtlefest-activities-planned/) - Edited press announcement Editor's note: As I deliver newspapers, I've learned to watch for turtles and have braked for turtles and people helping turtles cross the road. Turtlefest reminds us to slow down and enjoy the many sights (and sounds) of nature we encounter along the road. Happy travels! May 23 is World Turtle Day,
- [Highway 31 Cabins: a shady haven](https://freshwater-reporter.com/highway-31-cabins-a-shady-haven/) - By Kevin Howell Charlie and Andra Shobe weren't particularly looking for a business to buy. Driving north toward Manistee, where their daughter Sophia attends school, they spotted a group of rustic cabins along U.S. Highway 31. So many small mom-and-pop roadside traveler cabins are gone now, but a few miles south of Manistee in Mason
- [Historical society to celebrate museum addition](https://freshwater-reporter.com/historical-society-to-celebrate-museum-addition/) - Photo by P. Stinson Edited from a LCHS announcement BALDWIN - The Lake County Historical Society invites members of the public to help celebrate the completion of its new historical research center and museum workroom on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the grounds of the museum at 915 N. Michigan
- [Life’s too short: Rise up and dance!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lifes-too-short-rise-up-and-dance/) - DJ Val (a giant "rat" beside her) at a Queens! House Party in a Chicago club. Husband Patrick (background, in striped shirt) also takes a picture of Val. Photo: www.erikmkommer.com By Gordon Berg Resilience. Joy. Hope. When it feels like our worlds are falling apart, it’s hard to let go of what’s dragging us down
- [Local real estate agent to appear on HGTV](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-real-estate-agent-to-appear-on-hgtv/) - Debie Nale, an Onekama resident and real estate agent, poses in front of Lake Michigan at the Arcadia Overlook. Photo by John Nale. By Pat Stinson “Flabbergasted” is the word Debie Nale, a real estate agent from Onekama, used to describe her homebuyers’ reaction when they were selected to appear in an episode of the
- [Local Earth Day celebration to be held April 26](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-earth-day-celebration-to-be-held-april-26/) - A Few Friends for the Environment of the World (AFFEW) will host free Earth Day events from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 26, at the United Methodist Church, 5810 Bryant Road, Ludington. The all-day celebration takes place during the 55th anniversary of the original Earth Day and marks the 35th year since the
- [Area campground to offer BOGO fall weekends](https://freshwater-reporter.com/area-campground-to-offer-bogo-fall-weekends/) - From staff reports LUDINGTON - This fall, Mason County Campground is offering two buy-one-night, get-one-night-free camping weekends to encourage area residents to get to know the campground and nearby Mason County Picnic Area. The first opportunity is Sept.15 and 16 and the second is Oct. 6 and 7. The campground is located at 5906 W.
- [Here's the scoop about area ice cream!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/heres-the-scoop-about-area-ice-cream/) - Young "Bea" enjoys a scoop of homemade Superman ice cream at Hill Top Soda Shoppe in Benzonia. Photo courtesy of Hill Top Soda Shoppe. By Kevin Howell and Pat Stinson Editor's note: Since this story was published, the Bear Claw Café in Copemish has sold (spring 2023) and homemade ice cream may no longer be
- [Sari Brown Band to perform at Roots on the River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sari-brown-band-to-perform-at-roots-on-the-river/) - From staff reports MANISTEE - Sari Brown and her band will bring soul-infused sounds of joy, connection and healing to audience members when they take the gazebo stage at Veterans Memorial Park at 7 p.m. on July 25. Their performance is part of the Roots on the River free concert series taking place along the
- [Festival dinner to kick off weekend](https://freshwater-reporter.com/festival-dinner-to-kick-off-weekend/) - By Pat Stinson MANISTEE - Only three days remain to reserve a seat at the Great Lakes Environmental Festival (GLEF) awards dinner to be held Friday, April 19. Payment and menu selections must be made by April 1. The dinner will take place in the upper level of Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar on 312
- [Smelt: great to eat, but only a few](https://freshwater-reporter.com/smelt-great-to-eat-but-only-a-few/) - EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect the results of the EPA 2024 study, confirmed by Michigan, and the EGLE report is found HERE. By Ron Schmidt Ever since my move to Northern Michigan from the Albion area 37 years ago, I have looked forward each spring to a good smelt dinner at
- [Spirit of the Woods - Part One](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spirit-of-the-woods-part-one/) - Editor's note: This story has been updated from the original version published May 24, 2023. By Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas Four groups of “Spirits,” all with the same first name, may be found near Manistee. Each is unique, with diverse members, purposes and goals. We will highlight one Spirit in each of the next few issues. We
- [Red Tree Curiosities: a Baldwin gallery/gift shop](https://freshwater-reporter.com/red-tree-curiosities-a-baldwin-gallery-gift-shop/) - Red Tree Curiosities' owner Elizabeth Heckler-Cambridge stands beside her painting, "The Red Tree", her gallery's namesake. Photo: Pat Stinson This story originally appeared in print with the title, "A tree grows in Baldwin: a gift for the curious." By Pat Stinson The curiosities you’ll find in Elizabeth Heckler-Cambridge's gallery in Baldwin aren’t the creaky, cobwebby
- [Free School Clothes event in Kaleva](https://freshwater-reporter.com/free-school-clothes-event-in-kaleva/) - From staff reports KALEVA - Gently-used clothing in preschool to adult sizes will be available for free for families and individuals to take home from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 12 and Sunday, Aug. 13. The "shopping" event will be held in the gynasium of the former Kaleva Elementary School, now known as
- [Folk festival returns Saturday](https://freshwater-reporter.com/folk-festival-returns-saturday/) - The Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival logo of a cicada was created by Harvey Hespa. Image courtesy of Spirit of the Woods Music Association. BRETHREN - The 46th annual Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival will strike multiple high notes when seven sets of performers take turns sharing the main stage from noon to
- [Crafted for giving](https://freshwater-reporter.com/crafted-for-giving/) - The author's daughter selling beach glass and Petoskey stone jewelry at a craft fair. Photo: Valerie Chandler. Editor's note: Look for craft shows and area art centers offering holiday shows and sales in the daily and ongoing sections of our Event Calendar. By Valerie Chandler Once fall arrives, craft shows start appearing around the area,
- [Proposed multi-use trail plan connects communities](https://freshwater-reporter.com/proposed-multi-use-trail-connects-communities/) - By Stewart A. McFerran Last August, Freshwater Reporter spoke to two Manistee County Planning Department employees inside their booth at the Copemish Heritage Festival. The pair’s enthusiasm for a SMARTrails project, which would create new trails inside the county and connect them with existing trails, was apparent. At the time, surveys were taken for public
- [Open water swimming makes waves](https://freshwater-reporter.com/open-water-swimming-makes-waves/) - Eric Hansen swims in open water. Photo courtesy of Eric Hansen. By Stewart A. McFerran Half the swimmers were missing team practice at the Civic Center pool in Traverse City. Masters swim coach Tom Lechota told me they were outside, swimming in the open water of nearby Grand Traverse Bay instead of the pool. Some
- [Ghost Ship ready for Boos and Ghouls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ghost-ship-ready-for-boos-and-ghouls/) - Photo of the Ghost Ship courtesy of the Society for the Preservation of the S.S. City of Milwaukee. By Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas MANISTEE - Why book passage aboard the “Fright Ferry,” aka the Ghost Ship? Because this fun and hair-raising half-hour excursion is only offered in October — every Friday and Saturday, 7:30-10:30 p.m. — with
- [Ski and sip](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ski-and-sip/) - By Stewart A. McFerran A friend of mine who used to live in Chief shared on social media a dream he had about Obama visiting him. I posted my reply, “The Commander in Chief!” Well, if the former commander really did visit Chief, he would find a sawmill on one side of the main street
- [Dark Sky Week raises awareness](https://freshwater-reporter.com/dark-sky-week-raises-awareness/) - COVER PHOTO: Northern Lights photographed at Good Harbor Bay in Leelanau County on March 25, 2023 by Dustin Sielaff, using a Nikon D9, 8-second exposure, f/3.5, ISO 2000. By Pat Stinson Editor’s note: This story has been updated since its March 29 publication with some late-breaking news and details that were omitted due to space
- [‘Hometown’ musicians to perform at Ramsdell during album-release tour](https://freshwater-reporter.com/hometown-musicians-to-perform-at-ramsdell-during-album-release-tour/) - Photo of Nick Veine (left) and Ben Traverse, by Wild Subterranean Photography. By Carmelitta Tiffany Contributing writer Carmelitta Tiffany enjoys the music of and is a promoter for the Earthwork Music Collective. In support of their Nov. 3 album release of Irish music called, “Me Grief and Tears to Smother: Traditional Songs and Ballads of
- [Onekama park project called 'transformative'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-park-project-called-transformative/) - ONEKAMA ‒ A recent initiative led by the Onekama Township Parks and Recreation Committee will increase the accessibility and enjoyment of Carden Park, according to a press release from a committee member. The 1.1-acre park, located behind the Manistee County Fairgrounds and accessible via Kay Street, was treated for non-native, invasive species in a project
- [New thriller is first for Onekama author](https://freshwater-reporter.com/new-thriller-is-first-for-onekama-author/) - Q&A by Pat Stinson. All images courtesy of the author. Fans of political thrillers will be able to meet Joseph “Joe” Suchocki, author of the new book “Collective Vengeance”, during a wine and cheese reception to be held 4-6 p.m., June 28, at Patina, an art gallery and resale shop located at 4850 Main St.
- [‘My Idlewild’ celebrates high notes of an exciting era](https://freshwater-reporter.com/my-idlewild-celebrates-high-notes-of-an-exciting-era/) - A scene from the musical, "My Idlewild," which took place on and off the stage in the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran “My Idlewild: A Live Historical Musical Revue,” performed Saturday evening at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee, is a thoroughly entertaining look back at
- ['Souper' Fridays offer food, museum tours](https://freshwater-reporter.com/souper-fridays-offer-food-museum-tours/) - Photo courtesy of Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place in Copemish. From a press announcement COPEMISH -- The Marilla Historical Society will host guests and serve a supper menu made on site during two Fridays in April. The events are 5-7 p.m., April 11 and 25, at Marilla Museum & Pioneer Place, 9991 Marilla Road, southeast
- [Left out of the conversation: measles in the womb](https://freshwater-reporter.com/left-out-of-the-conversation-measles-in-the-womb/) - Image of the word "rubella," or German measles, written in Braille. Concept: Lois Beardslee. Artwork: Mark Videan. Anishinaabe Perspectives By Lois Beardslee When I was growing up, “rubella baby” was a term that everyone in our community knew. The worldwide 1963-1965 epidemic of German measles hit Michigan so hard that the Michigan School for the
- [Online orders for native plants end Sunday night](https://freshwater-reporter.com/online-orders-for-native-plants-end-sunday-night/) - Image: Top three photos of butterflies and a monarch caterpillar on native plants courtesy of AFFEW. Bottom left photo of a native flower (coneflower) by Victoria Liu, Unsplash. Bee on flower file photo by Jennifer Devine. LUDINGTON - The last day to order native plants online from AFFEW (A Few Friends for the Environment) is
- [Craft beverage sales to benefit Michigan native fish species](https://freshwater-reporter.com/craft-beverage-sales-to-benefit-michigan-native-fish-species/) - TOP: Arctic grayling file photo courtesy of Oden State Fish Hatchery. BOTTOM: Lake sturgeon file photo courtesy of Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. Compiled from news releases Two Michigan makers of artisanal beverages⸻one offering spirits, the other beer⸺are selling specially crafted drinks to help the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and others reintroduce
- [Fancy a Bloody Mary?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fancy-a-bloody-mary/) - How my Uncle Pat cultivated my taste for a fancy Bloody Mary. After reading our adventures, do you fancy a Bloody Mary?
- [Films to be shown ahead of World Water Day ](https://freshwater-reporter.com/films-to-be-shown-ahead-of-world-water-day/) - By Kevin Howell We swim, play and bathe in it, collect it and drink it. Water flows to us from rivulets, gullies, streams and lakes, and all life on Earth depends on it. A free series of seven films focusing on secrets within and beneath water, as well as worldwide water issues, will be shown
- [Planet vs. Plastics: Which will win?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/planet-vs-plastics-which-will-win/) - The 2024 theme for Earth Day is "Planet vs. Plastics." Two area organizations--one in Manistee, one in Ludington--will offer free Earth Day-related activities.
- [Every day's like Christmas at Kaleva's recycling-resale center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/every-days-like-christmas-at-kalevas-recycling-resale-center/) - Photo of tiny houses built from recycled materials by BARC Kaleva. Photo by Valerie Chandler. Story and photos by Valerie Chandler I love finding great deals and shopping, so what could possibly make this experience better? Supporting a local business that gives to charities, and it all helps our earth. In 2008, one man with
- [Drawings for veterans, December marketplace](https://freshwater-reporter.com/drawings-for-veterans-december-marketplace/) - File photo of the Kaleva Art Gallery storefront by Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas. Kaleva News by Cindy Asiala During November, members of the public may pay tribute to a veteran by visiting the Kaleva Art Gallery at 14449 Wuoksi Ave. and entering the service member’s name in a drawing to win one of two wall hangings created
- [Ludington to host ‘North Country Opera’ screening](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ludington-to-host-north-country-opera-screening/) - Jay Stielstra's "North Country Opera" will return to the Ludington Area Center for the Arts on Nov. 15 as a live recording of a 2022 Ann Arbor performance.
- [A Timeless Waltz with the Manistee River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-timeless-waltz-with-the-manistee-river/) - Jay Stielstra and Judy Banker & Friends performing for the Stockbridge Summer Market Music Series in Stockbridge, Mich. L to R: Drew Howard, Jay Stielstra, Judy Banker and David Roof. Photo courtesy of JudyBanker.com Jay Stielstra is like a river. And his song “Manistee Waltz” is arguably one of America’s best river songs. By Gordon
- [Museum preserves newspapers, thanks to grant](https://freshwater-reporter.com/museum-preserves-newspapers-thanks-to-grant/) - Lake County Historical Society of Baldwin, Mich., received a $3,000 Great Lakes Energy grant which the society used to preserve newspapers dating to the 1800s.
- [Family tree bears fruit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/family-tree-bears-fruit/) - Photo of Terry Connolly by P.G. Misty Sheehan. By P.G. Misty Sheehan Editor's note: This story appeared in the July 22, 2020 issue of Freshwater Reporter. Terry Connolly wants to re-establish the 40 acres his family originally owned in Manistee County. He is working hard planting apple, pear, plum, cherry and Asian pear trees, plus
- [Museum to present pioneer holiday dinner](https://freshwater-reporter.com/museum-to-present-pioneer-holiday-dinner/) - Photo courtesy of Marilla Historical Society. Edited from a news release MARILLA TOWNSHIP, Mich. ‒ Seating is limited for a unique holiday experience offered in the spirit of the pioneer days. The Joyfest Pioneer Holiday Dinner will take place 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Marilla Museum and Pioneer Place. Festivities will include tours,
- [Kaleva gallery offers community a chance to honor veterans](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kaleva-gallery-offers-community-a-chance-to-honor-veterans/) - Quilt honoring the Marine Corps by Kaleva Art Gallery member artist Sandi VanDonkelaar. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson KALEVA – Members of the Kaleva Art Gallery think of U.S. military veterans every November, and this year they were looking for a way to honor them for their service, according to KAG member Cynthia “Cindy” Asiala.
- [Ramsdell calls for community art](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ramsdell-calls-for-community-art/) - By Pat Stinson MANISTEE – Community members are invited to create artworks for a 12" x 12" Community Art exhibition to be held in the Hardy Hall gallery at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, November 1 through December 14. The show is a fundraising project for the arts at the Ramsdell. Those interested
- [Arcadia music festival ramps up](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arcadia-music-festival-ramps-up/) - Photo courtesy of Music Moves Us. By Pat Stinson. ARCADIA - A second stage will debut during the Aug. 30-31 Minnehaha Brewhaha Music Festival, featuring “more music, more brews, more food, and more fun on tap,” according to Music Moves Me, the nonprofit festival host. The event will take place on the grounds of Arcadia
- [The essential nature of tree bark](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-essential-nature-of-tree-bark/) - Bark that peeled off a paper birch tree in Manistee. Photo by Josh Shields. By Josh Shields, Ph.D. When you hear the words “tree bark,” what is the first image that comes to mind? Some of you may envision the thick, rough bark of oak trees or mature eastern white pine trees. Perhaps you think
- [Garage sales: It's the little things](https://freshwater-reporter.com/garage-sales-its-the-little-things/) - The pitfalls of too much stuff. Story and photo by Gordon Berg How on earth did we collect so much stuff in our homes?! Yes, we are a consumer society. Our very economy is based on it. But, really?? And, if you’re in the latter part of your life, how are your grown children even
- [Casino resort marks 25 years](https://freshwater-reporter.com/casino-resort-marks-25-years/) - Ribbon Cutting at the official grand opening of the Little River Casino on July 23, 1999. Middle left is then-Tribal Ogema (executive leader) Robert Guenthardt. Beside him, wearing a teal blazer, is Tribal Council Speaker Joan Spaulding (middle right). By Valerie Chandler MANISTEE - The Little River Casino Resort (LRCR) is planning a three-day, 25th
- [Nordhouse Dunes to host Leave No Trace programs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nordhouse-dunes-to-host-leave-no-trace-programs/) - Pulling invasive plants is one of the restoration efforts at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Edited from a news release. All photos courtesy of Leave No Trace. FREE SOIL - The Leave No Trace organization has selected the 3,500-acre Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area as a 2024 Spotlight site. This new initiative from Leave No Trace (LNT)
- [Ready for summer on the water?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ready-for-summer-on-the-water/) - By Joshua Elie It's springtime. Time to rake leaves, plant seeds and get the summer toys ready for the best summer ever. Why will this be the best? Because the next will always be better than the last. With the weather getting warmer, the sunny days getting longer, the lilacs in bloom and the fish
- [Readers ask local author to pen sequel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/readers-ask-local-author-to-pen-sequel/) - By Pat Stinson In her 2022 book, “My Escape to Loon Haven”, Bear Lake author Sylvia Duncan fulfills the longing of young people to escape to the outdoors, flee from an unbearable situation in their lives, or both. The author knows something about teenagers. She taught at the Leelanau School, a college-preparatory boarding school in
- [Art park to celebrate “Gateway to Black Eden” sculpture](https://freshwater-reporter.com/art-park-to-celebrate-gateway-to-black-eden-sculpture/) - "A Gateway to Black Eden", a sculpture by M. Saffell Gardner, can be found at the Michigan Legacy Art Park in Thompsonville. Photo courtesy of Michigan Legacy Art Park. From a news announcement THOMPSONVILLE — A weekend of events is planned for June 28-29 at the Michigan Legacy Art Park to celebrate the newest sculpture
- [Onekama master plan meetings begin tonight](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-master-plan-meetings-begin-tonight/) - From a village announcement The Village of Onekama has announced that it is working to update its master plan, and the first meeting to address strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) will be held at 6 p.m. tonight (June 25) inside the Farr Center at 5283 Main St. "This is an important step in the
- [Onekama park to get new stage](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-park-to-get-new-stage/) - The new stage at the village park in Onekama is ready for an afternoon of performances scheduled during its grand opening on Sunday, June 23. Photo by Joseph Suchocki. By Nikki Schneider ONEKAMA - The Portage Lake Association is especially excited about this summer. Thanks to OCR (Onekama Collaborative Recovery) for leading the effort to
- [Chorus to offer ‘enchanting’ medley](https://freshwater-reporter.com/chorus-to-offer-enchanting-medley/) - Stock photo of a church interior by Jacob Bentzinger, Unsplash. From a news release The Manistee Community Music Festival Chorus will present “Choirs in the Cathedral,” billed by organizers as “an enchanting evening of music,” beginning at 7 p.m., June 21, inside the historic First Congregational Church of Manistee, 412 S. 4th St. Admission is
- [Gathering 'Garden Allies'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/gathering-garden-allies/) - Fritillary butterfly, an ally in Lynn Brown's garden. Photo by Lynn Brown. By Pat Stinson Editor's note: This story has been updated from the original, published May 15, 2024. It includes an explanation of Fluttering Fields/Neighbors for Nature, Lynn Brown's Facebook group. Lynn Brown loves her nature. During the last two years, she turned portions
- [Lakeside Club awards member for 'Excellence'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lakeside-club-awards-member-for-excellence/) - Pamela Weiner presents the Excellence in Achievement Award to The Lakeside Club member Peggy Raddatz (right) on May 2, 2024. Photo by Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas. MANISTEE – Peggy Raddatz received The Lakeside Club of Manistee County’s first-ever Excellence in Achievement Award at the organization’s May 2024 general membership meeting. The announcement was made today in a
- [Honoring Sung and Unsung Americans](https://freshwater-reporter.com/honoring-sung-and-unsung-americans/) - Writer Gordon Berg beside a sign in New Mexico commemorating the Trinity Site, miles away, where the first atomic bomb was tested. Photo: Lauren Berg By Gordon Berg Memorial Day. The official kick-off of summer. All over Michigan folks are planning to get away Up North to make new memories with family and friends. It’s
- [The buzz about bumblebees](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-buzz-about-bumblebees/) - Left: Bumblebee on a lilac flower. Right: Bumblebee on a squash blossom. Photos by Jennifer Devine. MI BACKYARD EDITOR'S NOTE: We don't discount the importance of honeybees as crop pollinators, nor their colony losses last year and in previous years, but our writer does want to highlight native bees and the vital role they play
- [The first Mother's Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-first-mothers-day/) - Photo by Natasha, Unsplash. By Grace Grogan Was a Michigan woman the inspiration for the first Mother’s Day? The residents of Albion, a city of approximately 7,700 (2020 U.S. Census) located in the state's south-central region, would likely answer with a resounding yes. Juliet Calhoun Blakeley According to information found on albionmich.net, the first Mother’s
- ['Electric vehicles' is Earth Day keynote](https://freshwater-reporter.com/electric-vehicles-is-earth-day-keynote/) - Photo by Ernest Ojeh, Unsplash. By Pat Stinson Those hesitant to purchase an electric vehicle (EV), and those who already have, will be able to learn more about their battery-powered operation and benefits during one of several Earth Day presentations taking place tomorrow in Ludington. The activities will be held at the United Methodist Church
- [Arcadia community to celebrate Arbor Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arcadia-community-to-celebrate-arbor-day/) - The village of Arcadia will celebrate Arbor Day with a tree-planting ceremony, Arbor Day proclamation, tree committee presentation, music and a silent auction.
- [Serial killer survivor to speak during Sexual Assault Awareness Month](https://freshwater-reporter.com/serial-killer-survivor-to-speak-during-sexual-assault-awareness-month/) - Holly K. Dunn will offer a message of hope, resilience and advocacy during her April 19 and 20 presentations in Manistee and Ludington about her sexual assault
- [Ludington chosen 'Best Historic Small Town'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ludington-chosen-best-historic-small-town/) - Photo of Big Sable Point Lighthouse courtesy of Pure Ludington. From staff reports In case you've been away from your social media, smartphones and televisions the last 24 hours, you may now hear what everyone else in the area already knows: USA Today readers voted Ludington as the "Best Historic Small Town." Twenty U.S. towns
- [Library to show groundbreaking film](https://freshwater-reporter.com/library-to-show-groundbreaking-film/) - By Pat Stinson From testing and amending the soil with compost on a small-scale farm to planting a multi-crop grazing pasture, regenerative agriculture practices have the power to help change our climate, restore soil health and reduce farmers' financial burdens. That's the message of the award-winning documentary film "Kiss the Ground" showing at 6:30 p.m.,
- [Tales of a St. Patrick’s Day tradition](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tales-of-a-st-patricks-day-tradition/) - Benzie County real estate broker Christine Stapleton shares her Irish traditions, first with her dad and now with the rest of her family and friends.
- [Freshwater Reporter columnist lands her dream job](https://freshwater-reporter.com/freshwater-reporter-columnist-lands-her-dream-job/) - Brooke Edwards. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson MANISTEE – A countdown has begun for Brooke Edwards, Freshwater Reporter’s space and astronomy columnist. Known for hosting area star parties since 2019 as a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador, Edwards will embark on a new mission next month. That's when she'll assume the role of Space Reporter for
- [Busy season ahead for Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/busy-season-ahead-for-onekama/) - File photo of a competitive run during Onekama Days courtesy of the Onekama Days committee. By Pat Stinson ONEKAMA ‒ Events planned in 2024 for this “two-lake” town were recently announced by the Portage Lake Association. Near and Farr Friends will present the remainder of its free winter and spring programs for community members. All
- [Quilt Trunk Show promises 'coziest' gathering](https://freshwater-reporter.com/quilt-trunk-show-promises-coziest-gathering/) - Jamie Russell, owner of the Fabric Peddler in Baldwin, is one of two featured presenters at the Feb. 18 Quilt Trunk Show Dinner Theater event at 876 in the village. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson BALDWIN ‒ Those who love quilts and those with an interest in quilting can learn more about their history, from
- [A Single Ingredient](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-single-ingredient/) - Photo by Eduardo Barrios from Unsplash. By Joshua Elie In a way, everyone that grows up in a small town has the same story as a young person. This town is so boring! There’s nothing to do, nothing to see. Everybody knows everything about everybody ... It's just so boring. And then our ambition takes
- [Who guards the lifeguards?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/who-guards-the-lifeguards/) - Keegan Jeane (center) on graduation day at Benzie Central High School. Photo courtesy of Sunshine Gay. By Stewart A. McFerran As an outdoor leader, I’ve guided young people down whitewater rivers, up mountains and through ropes courses, and I have kept all participants safe during these risky pursuits. Now I teach swimming lessons and a
- [Events for Martin Luther King Jr. Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/events-for-martin-luther-king-jr-day/) - Image by Jae Rue, Pixabay. From staff reports MANISTEE - In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Vogue Theatre and the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts will host special presentations today. The Vogue will show a free film, "The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks", at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Through
- [Cream Cup Dairy awarded grant](https://freshwater-reporter.com/cream-cup-dairy-awarded-grant/) - Cream Cup Dairy ice cream. File photo by Pat Stinson. By Pat Stinson BEAR LAKE - Cream Cup Dairy, owned by Ted and Kaylie Brown, has been awarded an innovation grant from the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA), a partnership between the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association and the Center for Dairy Research. A press release
- [Santa Chione](https://freshwater-reporter.com/santa-chione/) - By Joshua Elie Years back, a brilliant man in Sippy Flats, south of Baldwin, decided to get a purebred husky pup, male. Another brilliant man in Sippy Flats decided to do the same thing from a different stock: husky, female. In all their brilliance, they lost the papers ⸺ though they figured they would let
- [Cookies and Milk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/cookies-and-milk/) - Cookies and milk were a benefit of having surrogate moms and grandparents. Any of them could tell us what to do and we obeyed. They were all "mom" to us.
- [Local art exhibit highlights African American artists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-art-exhibit-highlights-african-american-artists/) - George Thomas is one of the featured artists in the "Journey of Discovery" art exhibit showing now through February 25 in the Hardy Hall gallery inside the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee. Photo courtesy of the artist. By Carmelitta Tiffany MANISTEE ‒ In observance of Black History Month, an art exhibition called “Journey
- [Munson’s inspiring health and fitness community](https://freshwater-reporter.com/munsons-inspiring-health-and-fitness-community/) - Story and photos by Nikki Schneider Living in Chicagoland for most of my life, I was spoiled by the many choices of health clubs, gyms and fitness centers. When I relocated to Bear Lake several years ago, it was the only thing I missed from my previous life in the big city. Until I discovered
- [Yo Mama Wears Combat Boots](https://freshwater-reporter.com/yo-mama-wears-combat-boots/) - Cover photo: Mother and son on a sailing day. Patricia and Joshua Elie. Photo by Peter Elie. By Joshua Elie Back in the ’80s, when I was going to Baldwin schools, the “Yo mama'” jokes were “king.” Non-stop ribbing all the time about anything and everything. Some of us never grow out of it. Friendly
- [World Chocolate Day, July 7](https://freshwater-reporter.com/world-chocolate-day-july-7/) - In celebration of World Chocolate Day on July 7, Joshua Elie holds a bottle of wine and a plate of chocolate fudge brownies in his kitchen. Photo by Patricia Elie. By Joshua Elie I grew up in a world where if you wanted something, you had to work for it or build it yourself. Food,
- [The Hearts that Saved the Arcadia Dunes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-hearts-that-saved-the-arcadia-dunes/) - Image by Jim Gibson. Photo courtesy of Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. The Miracle of 'Ridiculousness' By Gordon Berg You never know when a thought so full of hope-filled ridiculousness, so full of audacious impossibility, will hit you upside the head and stop you in your tracks. When it happens, you can’t shake it. It
- [Bourbon: Why wait 'til 5 o'clock?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bourbon-why-wait-til-5-oclock/) - By Joshua Elie As a builder and even as a cook, I love my tools. I have spent my whole life accumulating tools and learned early in life about the importance of having good tools and the right tools for the job. As soon as I was big enough to “swing an ax” (around 14),
- [Kitchen safety and accidental pizza](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kitchen-safety-and-accidental-pizza/) - Story and photos by Joshua Elie It's been about a year since the debut of the Northwoods Sauce Boss in these pages. So, maybe it’s time for some basic kitchen safety tips. A sharp knife is a happy knife. It happens every so often, when trying to cut something like a tomato or an orange.
- [Food for the spirit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/food-for-the-spirit/) - Story and photos by Joshua Elie I am a big list maker. We all make lists, but I also make lists about life-altering decisions. Do you want to have kids, marry that person, buy that house, move to that location, take that job, go to that school, choose that major ... You make a list
- [Keep it simple: holidays and pie crust](https://freshwater-reporter.com/keep-it-simple/) - Story and above photo of blueberry pie by Joshua Elie We all know that it is good to be good to each other. The holidays are great reminders of this. To be giving, even generous, when you can. To be a little less selfish and a little more selfless. Life has taught me that it
- [Catch the holiday spirit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/catch-the-holiday-spirit/) - Our contributors share their memorable, fun and slightly quirky holiday traditions with you. Add another log to the fire, heat up some cocoa and enjoy. Happy holidays to all! Christmas letters sweet enough to eat By Ron Schmidt Do you like getting Christmas letters in the mail this time of year? You know, those generic
- [Anishinaabe Perspectives](https://freshwater-reporter.com/anishinaabe-perspectives/) - Birch bark biting by Lois Beardslee. Image courtesy of the author. Minomiigiwewe Giizhigaad Gegiinawaa: Happy Holidays By Lois Beardslee I am an Anishinaabe author, artist, and educator from a family that is spread out geographically between northern Michigan and northern Ontario. I’m often asked to do presentations for universities, museums, libraries, and other public venues,
- [What's aglow in December's night sky?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/whats-aglow-in-decembers-night-sky/) - Pleiades. Photo by Brooke Edwards. By Brooke Edwards Winter is on the way and with it comes a light show of the celestial kind. As night falls faster and darkness lasts longer, the coming months become some of the best for stargazing. If we can catch a break in lake-effect clouds, we’ll be able to
- [Engine Club revs up for big show](https://freshwater-reporter.com/engine-club-revs-up-for-big-show/) - Fred Silvis, president of the Western Michigan Old Engine Club in Scottville, demonstrates how to start a Kahlenberg engine. Story and photos by Kevin Howell During the first week in August, a 22-acre field on the south side of Scottville will spring noisily to life with chugging, smoke-ring blowing, bellowing machinery. They’re the sounds of
- [What happened to blackfin cisco?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/what-happened-to-blackfin-cisco/) - Billy Bjorkquist, on the south side of the Manistee River, looks north to the former location of the Bjorkquist Bros. commercial fishing docks. Photo by S.A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran Today, nobody heads to Lake Michigan to fish for blackfin cisco. Few have ever seen one. Billy Bjorkquist is one of them. When he
- [Michiganders involved in NASA plan to return to Venus](https://freshwater-reporter.com/michiganders-involved-in-nasa-plan-to-return-to-venus/) - A computer-generated image of the Sapas Mons volcano on Venus. In the coming decade, we will find new amazing truths behind Venus’ extreme environment. Image Credit: NASA/JPL By Brooke Edwards On June 2, space professionals and enthusiasts watched the State of NASA address given by NASA administrator Bill Nelson. Excited for the rumored announcement of
- [The final flight of the Passenger Pigeon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-final-flight-of-the-passenger-pigeon/) - Mounted male passenger pigeon at the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago. Photo by James St. John. Creative Commons by 2.0. By P.G. Misty Sheehan When I can shoot my rifle clear At pigeons in the skies I’ll bid farewell to pork and beef And live on pigeon pies. -From the Mason County Record, March 1868 When Europeans
- [Bjorkquist Brothers: Commercial fishers of Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bjorkquist-brothers-commercial-fishers-of-manistee-2/) - Albert and Fred Bjorkquist. Courtesy photo. By Stewart A. McFerran If there was ever a plucky crew of entrepreneurs struggling to build a business and support their families, it was the Bjorkquist brothers of Manistee. In his recently completed manuscript, Dennis Bjorkquist, with the help of students at West Shore Community College in Scottville, highlights
- [That's the Spirit: Gin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/thats-the-spirit-2/) - Forget your misgivings: Gin is the Bees Knees By Chelsea White Everyone has that one friend. You know the one: you warn your new partner before they meet them. “Hey, this is my person; they mean more to me than almost anyone else. They’re also sarcastic, occasionally abrasive, and in general a little mean sometimes.
- [Smells fishy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/smells-fishy/) - Photo by James Wheeler, Unsplash. By Stewart A. McFerran One of my jobs as Assistant Harbor Master for Veteran’s Memorial Marina in Arcadia Township is to make sure the fish guts get picked up by the garbage truck. They get really smelly if they linger in the garbage tote. The amount of offal varies. Sometimes
- [Anchored Designs: Onekama's unique boutique destination](https://freshwater-reporter.com/anchored-designs-onekamas-unique-boutique-destination/) - We first met Ashley Bradford of Anchored Designs Boutique two years ago. We were referred to her after admiring tee shirts she printed for a local business in her former location on Main Street. Ashley (Acker) was born and raised in Onekama and graduated from Onekama Consolidated Schools. What was your retail experience/background before you
- [Verne’s Emporium takes on a Patina](https://freshwater-reporter.com/vernes-emporium-takes-on-a-patina/) - Postcard of Verne’s Emporium. Photo by Verne Hutchinson. By Nikki Schneider For nearly 17 years, 1969-1986, Verne’s Emporium in Onekama was said to be the most unique drugstore in Michigan, if not the country. The building at 4850 Main Street, known as Knuth’s Drugstore Building, was constructed sometime prior to 1895, according to an insurance
- [‘First Americans’ exhibition seeks artists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/first-americans-exhibition-seeks-artists/) - This double portrait by artist Judy Jashinsky is of her great-grandmother. Courtesy image. By Pat Stinson A call for artwork by Native American artists living in Michigan concludes on Sept. 10, the deadline to apply to the “First Americans” art exhibition to be held in November and December. The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts
- [Nonprofit story roundup for 2023](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nonprofit-story-roundup-for-2023/) - Photo by Katt Yukawa, Unsplash. By Pat Stinson We want to pause a moment to look back at the nonprofit organizations we highlighted or mentioned in our stories this year. If one of these stories touched you in some way, please consider donating to one or more of these organizations. Be sure to consult your
- [Goin’ Up Around the Bend](https://freshwater-reporter.com/goin-up-around-the-bend/) - Gordon Berg wears a pair of Roy Orbison's glasses as he poses next to a cut-out of the crooner at the Roy Orbison Museum in Wink, Texas. Photo by Lauren Berg. By Gordon Berg There is an ad for Airstream trailers that hangs above my desk. There are few ads that call to me like
- [Rescue Me!!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/rescue-me/) - By Judy Cools Our family has always advocated adopting rescue animals. Most shelter animals are of unknown pedigree, and many folks feel that makes the best pet. Virtually every breed also has a rescue organization if you’re looking for something specific. From retired racing greyhounds or sled dogs, to rescues from puppy mills or even
- [Birding in Spring](https://freshwater-reporter.com/birding-in-spring/) - Baltimore oriole. Photo by Mark Videan. By Brian Allen Getting up before dawn, I find the ground around the feeders is already attended by small societies of juncos and tree sparrows, eating their breakfast before the Cooper's Hawk wakes up. It's been really cold, and the ground is frosted, but cardinals are singing in the
- [A Pass on FishPass?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-pass-on-fishpass/) - Dam at Little Manistee River, where the fish weir is located. Stronach Township, Manistee. Photo by Mark Videan. By Stewart A. McFerran In 2016 when the Great Lakes Fishery Commission was conceiving of and planning for the FishPass project, they considered 12 sites within the Great Lakes region. They narrowed it to six rivers and
- [Here’s the scoop!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/heres-the-scoop/) - By Kevin Howell and Pat Stinson Editor’s note: After our story went to press last week, we remembered another local establishment that makes its own ice cream: Bear Claw Café in Copemish. Writer Stewart McFerran discovered the café and its home-cooked meals last fall. (See https://freshwater-reporter.com/lending-a-hand-restaurant-owners-help-each-other-during-crisis/ ) We added Bear Claw here, to our online
- [The Perseids’ phenomenal performance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-perseids-phenomenal-performance/) - By Brooke Edwards At 4:30 a.m., Aug. 12, I was treated to a meteor flying across the sky. With smoke from western wildfires a problem for weeks, and previously cloudy days, I had forgotten all about the Perseids, the best summer meteor shower. Seeing this unexpected cosmic show before I left for work made my
- [Lucy in the Sky with Asteroids](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lucy-in-the-sky-with-asteroids/) - An artist’s illustration of the Trojan asteroids as they follow and lead Jupiter in its orbit. Today, Oct. 16, 2021, the Lucy spacecraft embarked on a 12-year mission to discover their secrets. Image by: NASA/JPL/Caltech. This story is updated from the original version published Sept. 8, 2021. By Brooke Edwards, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador At 5:34
- [Woodworker is featured artist](https://freshwater-reporter.com/woodworker-is-featured-artist/) - By Pat Stinson KALEVA - Jeff Sanborn, a self-taught woodworker, will bring some of his larger pieces to a Sept. 18 featured artist meet-and-greet, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Kaleva Art Gallery, 14449 Wuoski Ave. Sanborn, of the Bear Lake area and Florida, delved into woodworking in his retirement. While wintering in
- [‘First Americans’ art show is first for Ramsdell](https://freshwater-reporter.com/first-americans-art-show-is-first-for-ramsdell/) - "Unceded Ancester #15" is one in a series of "Unceded Ancesters" collages by artist Jamie John. Photo courtesy of the artist. By Pat Stinson/staff reports In observance of Native American Heritage Month, the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Naaminitigog (Manistee) will present “First Americans”, an art show featuring contemporary works by Native American
- [NASA plans to DART an asteroid](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nasa-plans-to-dart-an-asteroid/) - Artist Steve Gribben illustrated his vision of the DART mission heading for Didymos, a near-Earth asteroid with a moonlet. Image courtesy of NASA/Johns Hopkins APL/Gribben. By Brooke Edwards Our area's NASA Solar System Ambassador for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Think of all the asteroids flying around in space. Is it possible to prevent one from
- [The Persistence of Pottery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-persistence-of-pottery/) - Clay vessels made by young people attending Summer Art Camp at Oliver Art Center in Frankfort. Photo by S.A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran During a family trip in the station wagon, we made a stop at Bybee Pottery in Kentucky. As a teenager, I was impressed with the production of clay vessels on the
- [Gifts from a Rescue Dog](https://freshwater-reporter.com/gifts-from-a-rescue-dog/) - Sydney and Moosey. Story and photo by Gordon Berg Sydney had no right to be so sweet. We were told that when rescuers and officers raided the puppy-mill farm down south, they found her living in horribly squalid conditions. Her front teeth were worn down to nubs from years of trying to gnaw her way
- [Guitar Man: a conversation with wood](https://freshwater-reporter.com/guitar-man-a-conversation-with-wood/) - Luthier Tim Jagmin in his workshop, surrounded by the tools of his trade. By Valerie Chandler Most everyone enjoys listening to music, but how many have thought about where the melodies begin, with the crafting of the individual instruments? I’d like to introduce you to a northern Michigan man, an extremely talented luthier named Tim
- [Big Lake and a Small Craft Crossing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/big-lake-and-a-small-craft-crossing/) - Mark and Lorraine LeMahieu's little green wooden sailboat at the dock. Photo by Lorraine LeMahieu. By Stewart McFerran There is a large wilderness area west of Ludington and Manistee. It is called Lake Michigan. Mark and Lorraine LeMahieu recently crossed that wild and watery expanse in their homemade sailboat. They launched their 22-foot wooden boat
- [Backroads and Beaches](https://freshwater-reporter.com/backroads-and-beaches-2/) - George Schwartz coming into shore at Duneview. Story and photos by Kevin Howell Standing near the small boat ramp at Victory Park on Upper Lake Hamlin, my navigator Jean and I watched as a pontoon loaded with people drifted by. The ’toon slowly made its way to a tie-up near a picnic pavilion and swings.
- [Climate stories sought](https://freshwater-reporter.com/climate-stories-sought/) - Photo by Kelly Sikkema, Unsplash. Compiled by Pat Stinson Time is running out for a Michigan nonprofit organization to receive input from residents on how climate change has impacted them and their communities. The Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN) needs to hear from citizens by the end of today, Dec. 1. Responses to the survey
- [Celebrating Notable Native Americans](https://freshwater-reporter.com/celebrating-notable-native-americans/) - NOVEMBER IS NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH By Valerie Chandler Note: All photos, with the exception of the image of Margaret Chandler and her husband, are in the public domain, Creative Commons or Fair Use. At Thanksgiving time, people tend to think of Native Americans peacefully sharing a meal with the pilgrims, and that may be
- [Former local pastor’s dementia story to premiere](https://freshwater-reporter.com/former-local-pastors-dementia-story-to-premiere/) - From staff reports supplied by United Methodist Church of Ludington. Photo courtesy of UMCL. One woman’s journey with dementia will be explored during “Betty’s Story”, a video presentation followed by a panel discussion at 1 p.m., Sept. 16, at United Methodist Church of Ludington. Betty Smith, the subject of the video and a former Ludington
- [Pine River rafting offers wintry wonders](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pine-river-rafting-offers-wintry-wonders/) - Pat Stinson (left), snowdog Hoxey, and Chris Stapleton float down the Pine River in a raft paddled and steered by Jake Miltner of Pine River Paddlesports. Photo by Jake Miltner. By Christine Stapleton On one of those rare January days when the sun was shining warmly, skies were blue and the wind was resting, my
- [Cattails: purrfectly practical](https://freshwater-reporter.com/cattails-purrfectly-practical/) - Photo (left) of cattail flowerheads gone to seed by Elijah Mears, Unsplash. Photo (right) by Maddie Weiss, Unsplash, of a cattail flowerhead amongst cattail leaves. By Jennifer Devine Nicknamed the “Plant of 1,000 Uses" and “Supermarket of the Swamp,” cattail (Typha) lines many stretches of road, fills many marshes, and borders many lakes and ponds
- [Moving to the sound of Stoops’ music](https://freshwater-reporter.com/moving-to-the-sound-of-stoops-music/) - Another fantastic Arcadia Daze fireworks display. Photo courtesy of Sue Stoops. By Milton F. Whitmore When he and Sue Keillor were married, Ron Stoops told his bride he didn’t want to work for someone else and would rather be self-employed. Sue, raised south of Frankfort, already knew about her new husband’s love of music. Born
- [The best local birding place I know](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-best-local-birding-place-i-know/) - Group on a June walk at North Point Park, Onekama. Photo by P. Stinson. By Brian Allen I love the look of wonder on someone's face when they experience something in nature for the first time and you see that look of interest click on, like a switch. I see it most often when I
- [Night owls: Do you give a hoot?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/night-owls-do-you-give-a-hoot/) - A barred owl surveys its woodland in a suburb of Portland, Oregon. Photo by Robyn Schmidt. By Ron Schmidt If you’ve been outside at night the last month or so, like me, perhaps you’ve heard the distant hoot of a barred or great horned owl. They are magical to me, and I’ve listened for them
- [Meet the sturgeon: There are big fish and then there are Big Fish](https://freshwater-reporter.com/meet-the-sturgeon-there-are-big-fish-and-then-there-are-big-fish/) - Sturgeon ready for release in the Big Manistee River. Photo courtesy of LRBOI Natural Resources Department. By Stewart A. McFerran Tour a sturgeon-rearing facility and participate in a ceremony and sturgeon release 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sept. 11, at the USFS Manistee River Rainbow Bend access off River Road, northeast of Manistee. Raised for months by
- [Hubble Trouble](https://freshwater-reporter.com/hubble-trouble/) - Hubble, during a 1999 servicing mission. Image credit: NASA/JSC. By Brooke Edwards, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador The Hubble Space Telescope was launched on April 24, 1990 in the Space Shuttle Discovery’s payload bay. The telescope then was deployed into its orbital home 340 miles above the earth. Many obstacles and several service visits from astronauts
- [Special delivery at NASA space center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/special-delivery-at-nasa-space-center/) - Artist's rending of Orion Artemis II Optical Communications System (O2O). Courtesy of NASA. By Brooke Edwards Will astronauts have internet access on the Moon? The answer to that frequently asked question is yes — but not in the way you might imagine. Eventually humans will return to the Moon and then to Mars. How will
- [Let's talk Manistee golf!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lets-talk-manistee-golf/) - Golf. Photo by Academiagolf, Pixabay. By Gail Tooley Every Tuesday, weather permitting, you’ll find me on the links, participating in a “senior rotator” league ⸺ senior by age and rotating the courses each week. With one exception, I’ve played the courses listed here. All offer public play and are placed in three categories: Resort, 18
- [Farmers markets: vibrant food communities](https://freshwater-reporter.com/farmers-markets-vibrant-food-communities/) - From staff reports REGION - Area farmers markets will once again provide fresh produce and a chance to connect with friends and neighbors when markets open for the season in May and June. In Benzie County, the Elberta Community Farmers Market will be open Thursdays, 8 a.m. to noon, from May 25 through Oct. 12
- [From the Farm:  Spring greens and growing roots](https://freshwater-reporter.com/from-the-farm-spring-greens-and-growing-roots/) - Story and photos by Nicole Mezeske You know what I love about living in Northern Michigan? Each season provides us with new and abundant gifts for the senses. I’ve spent most of my life in places without four seasons. Where growing seasons are year-round, but food systems are so disconnected that I was unaware of
- [Nonstop harvest: fruits of our labor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nonstop-harvest-fruits-of-our-labor/) - Z&N Farm harvest of tomatoes, beans, watermelon and corn are ripe for picking in late August and September.
- [Mason County’s historic Amber Township](https://freshwater-reporter.com/mason-countys-historic-amber-township/) - The village of Amber was the first to have a railroad depot of the Flint and Pere Marquette Railroad, in 1871. The line made it to Ludington a few years later, and Scottville became a hub when right-of-way couldn’t be procured south to Hart from Amber. Photo Courtesy of Mike Hankwitz. By Carmelitta Tiffany “This
- [Pilot season to begin for shoreline horseback riding](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pilot-season-to-begin-for-shoreline-horseback-riding/) - Lynsey Cook (L) and Natalie O’Connell flying free on the beach. Photo by Joe Gall Photography. Oct. 18 is deadline to apply By Kevin Howell OCEANA COUNTY – Imagine riding the beach on horseback, wind in your hair, water slapping the sand, and gulls rising to make way for you as you feel a new
- [Composting the worm way](https://freshwater-reporter.com/composting-the-worm-way/) - Elana Warsen waters her compost material at Michigan Worm Works. Courtesy photo. By Kevin Howell Manistee resident Elana Warsen has been busy for the past couple years growing her new enterprise, Michigan Worm Works. Michigan Worm Works is a production business that uses a process known as vermicomposting to develop high-quality fertilizer/soil conditioner. The process
- [From the gridiron to iron rails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/from-the-grid-iron-to-iron-rails/) - Mike Hankwitz with fellow enthusiasts at the former Manistee & Northeastern Railroad Riverview Depot located just east of Grayling. It is now owned by the Riverview Rod & Gun Club. Seated (from left): Jerry McGowan, Sonny Miller and Mike Hankwitz. The team sometimes scours the countryside to find old railroad grades and routes, which are
- [Acclaimed coach returns to his roots](https://freshwater-reporter.com/acclaimed-coach-returns-to-his-roots/) - Northwestern University defensive coordinator Mike Hankwitz looks on from the sidelines during a game last year. Hankwitz retired after the 2020 regular season with 400 victories as an assistant coach for 11 teams. Photo courtesy of Northwestern University. A conversation with Mike Hankwitz By Greg Gielczyk Born in Ludington and raised in Scottville, George Michael
- [The Golden Age of Hobbies](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-golden-age-of-hobbies/) - (From left) Nathan Helminiak, Matt Feagins and Adam Eckerson pass the time at Backstage Hobbies of Manistee with sci-fi board game Galaxy Trucker. Courtesy photo. By Carmelitta Tiffany Looking back at the last 18 months, many people realize the pandemic has changed their lives, and not necessarily all for the worse. “It’s cool to be
- [Two sports: Enthusiasm drives exponential growth](https://freshwater-reporter.com/two-sports-enthusiasm-drives-exponential-growth/) - A group of disc golfers at the Almira Township Park disc golf course in Lake Ann. "J.P." (back row, far right) works at Tilley's Party Store & Disc Golf in Traverse City. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran Golf and tennis have been played for hundreds of years, but their descendants disc golf and
- [Rocks and Fossils and Minerals. Oh, My!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/rocks-and-fossils-and-minerals-oh-my/) - Story and photos by Valerie Chandler. With many beautiful beaches and stone quarries, Northern Michigan offers a great opportunity for a hobby such as rock collecting or perhaps the thrill of rock hunting. Kids tend to grow up playing with rocks here, whether skipping them on the water, using them in pretend play or stashing
- [Snowmobilers lose a Leelanau trail link](https://freshwater-reporter.com/snowmobilers-lose-a-leelanau-trail-link/) - Riders pause along the snowmobile trail in Manistee County in 2019. Photo courtesy of the Benzie-Manistee Snowbirds. By Stewart McFerran There will be fewer snowmobiles in Maple City this winter, even if there is lots of snow, and trespassers are to blame. Mark Coe, President of the Benzie-Manistee Snowbirds, a snowmobile club, estimates that there
- [Area events to light up the longest night of the year](https://freshwater-reporter.com/area-events-to-light-up-the-longest-night-of-the-year/) - Photo by Andres F. Uran, Unsplash. By Stewart McFerran and Pat Stinson MANISTEE COUNTY – Two local villages will celebrate the first day of winter, also known as the winter solstice, with special observances this evening, the longest night of the year. The winter solstice occurs at 10:59 a.m. today, when the Northern Hemisphere reaches
- [NASA builds a new Time Machine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nasa-builds-a-new-time-machine/) - Hubble-Distance: Pictured is a scale of just how far space telescopes have been able to see vs. how far Webb (JWST) will detect. This will be the first time in history we will be able to gather data from the first-forming stars and galaxies. Image credit: NASA and Ann Feild. By Brooke Edwards, NASA/JPL Solar
- [Fruit Rules at Backwoods Homemade Wines](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fruit-rules-at-backwoods-homemade-wines/) - Fruit wines made in Irons, Michigan, and distributed in Northern Michigan retailers as Backwoods Homemade Wines by Russ and Melody Nicewander.
- [Small-batch wineries, big flavor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/small-batch-wineries-big-flavor/) - Above photo by Mark Videan. By Kevin Howell Over time, I’ve developed a taste for hoppier beverages, but my palate has recently taken favor with the fruity flavors of some wines. Two new area wineries, which opened in July, offer their own take on grape-derived beverages, with tasting rooms unique to their establishments. Pere Marquette
- [Three Generations of Golden Deals](https://freshwater-reporter.com/three-generations-of-golden-deals/) - Nick Franklin (center), owner of Gold N Deals of Scottville, with his father Paul (left) and grandfather Dale (right). Nick is the third generation of his family in the resale and loan business. Courtesy photo. By Carmelitta Tiffany Establishments that serve as pawnbrokers are important parts of the community. Nick Franklin owns Gold N Deals
- [Woodstoves and Lumberjacks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/woodstoves-and-lumberjacks/) - Stewy and his dog Brownie after a windfall in the front yard of the writer’s boyhood home. As others cleared the tree, Brownie swiped a meatloaf off a tabletop – a second windfall. Photo by Warren A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran My great-grandfather was a lumberjack in Northern Michigan. My great-grandmother was the cook
- [Making soap with ashes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/making-soap-with-ashes/) - Christine Blackledge (foreground) teaches soapmaking in African villages. Courtesy photo. By Christine Blackledge Legend has it soap was first discovered by women washing clothes along the Tiber River at the bottom of Sapo Hill in Rome. Clothes became cleaner there, with far less effort. What was happening? Animal grease and ashes from sacrificial fires at
- [The comforting warmth of wood heat](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-comforting-warmth-of-wood/) - Ron Schmidt stays comfortable in the heat radiated by his Avalon Arbor woodstove in his rustic camp cabin near Grand Marais, Michigan. Photo by M. Videan. By Ron Schmidt Many have sung songs and told stories about their fondness for a particular car or truck they’ve owned, but I’ve not heard any about a favorite
- [Over the (Ski) Hill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/over-the-ski-hill/) - Learning to downhill ski as a senior adult at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville.
- [Spot a bear den? Tell the MDNR](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spot-a-bear-den-tell-the-mdnr/) - Den biologist. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources asks hunters and other outdoor recreationists to keep an eye open for black bear dens and report the location to the DNR to support bear management programs. Photo courtesy of MDNR. From an MDNR news release Be alert for black bear dens this winter and if one
- [The Last Road Trip](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-last-road-trip/) - Photo of the writer's mother Esther, aka Gram E, at The Flower Farm at Pierport. Photo by T. Genter. By T. Genter For the past 18 months, my brother Mike, my 94-year-old mother and I spent time driving around Mason County looking for the perfect post-army retirement location for my wife Kari and me. At
- [An Old-Fashioned Halloween](https://freshwater-reporter.com/an-old-fashioned-halloween/) - By Joshua Elie Editor's note: Due to an editing error, a suggestion made at the end of this recipe in the October issue of Freshwater Reporter was omitted, and September's recipe instructions were included instead. Whoops! We think our Northwoods Sauce Boss's suggestion for leftover caramel apple ingredients is brilliant, so be sure to read
- [Grand Ball to feature Victorian theme](https://freshwater-reporter.com/grand-ball-to-feature-victorian-theme/) - Image of a Victorian gathering by Gordon Johnson, Pixabay. An authentic Victorian night of dancing -- along with appetizers, sweets and a cash bar -- will take place during the Grand Ball, a Dec. 1 fundraising event for the Lakeside Club of Manistee County. The "1885 Come Alive!" black-tie gathering will be held 7:30-10 p.m.
- [My Perfect Autumn Playlist](https://freshwater-reporter.com/my-perfect-autumn-playlist/) - Story and photo by Gordon Berg If you’re like me, you live for summer. Here in Northern Michigan, summers are phenomenally glorious. Slow sunsets. Campfires on the beach. Warm days. Cool nights. And just when you settle into summer’s rhythm, it’s over. Poof. Gone. So, I prefer to think of summer as many months longer.
- [Ghost, waterspout or snow squall?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ghost-waterspout-or-snow-squall/) - Image of an isolated system near South Manitou Island, in Lake Michigan's Manitou Passage, courtesy of Don Sielaff. By Pat Stinson LEELANAU COUNTY, MICH. - Don Sielaff, a resident of Maple City, captured these images today of what appears to be either a waterspout, isolated snow squall or ghostly apparition touching Lake Michigan near South
- [Local artists in Terrain Biennial](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-artists-in-terrain-biennial/) - Global art exhibit connects area communities From staff reports. Photo of Louisa Loveridge Gallas courtesy of the author-poet. This story was originally published Oct. 11, 2023, and is updated/edited slightly from the printed version. Eleven artists, including area residents, are presenting their work outdoors in neighborhoods, art centers and businesses plus “surprising locations” around Manistee,
- [OSIRIS-REx to return to Earth](https://freshwater-reporter.com/osiris-rex-to-return-to-earth/) - BENNU twelve-image_polycam_mosaic, 12-2-18. Photo courtesy of NASA. By Brooke Edwards This story about the Osiris-REx mission has been edited slightly from the original version and includes a link to an explanation of the sample's re-entry on 9/24. Launched in 2016, NASA’s OSIRIS-REx (Origins Spectral Interpretation Resource Identification Security-Regolith Explorer) will return to Earth in September
- [J.J., the Insatiable Insect](https://freshwater-reporter.com/j-j-the-insatiable-insect/) - Teeny monarch caterpillar. Photo: Lynn Brown. By Lynn Brown Hello! I’m a monarch caterpillar. You can call me J.J. Legend has it that Prince William of Orange (later King William III) was so adored by early European settlers to North America that they named me in his honor. Well, not me — I’m just a
- [Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spirit-of-the-woods-conservation-club/) - Coates Highway entrance to Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club. Photo by Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas. This Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club story is our fourth and final installment in our series about local "spirits." By Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas The Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club was organized in 1939 by a group mostly from Manistee. The sportsmen
- [Scottville to celebrate fall](https://freshwater-reporter.com/scottville-to-celebrate-fall/) - Photo by Timothy Eberly, Unsplash. From staff reports This story is updated from the original version published in our Aug. 30 edition and includes a new website address for the event as well as the location for the softball tournament. SCOTTVILLE - The beloved Rubber Ducky Race will be back this year, one of many
- [Meet the 'See What You Feel' artists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/meet-the-see-what-you-feel-artists/) - Painting by Ammy Amorette, from the "See What You Feel" art exhibition at Pines of Arcadia. POA owner Judy Jashinsky describes Amorette's paintings as "joyful and full of energy." Image courtesy of the artist. By Pat Stinson ARCADIA – The feeling you get when you look at a work of art can be immediate and
- [Local artist receives award](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-artist-receives-award/) - Local artist Marie Marfia and her husband Steve stand beside her winning entry in the Great Lakes Pastel Society's 2023 members' exhibition. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson Ludington artist Marie Marfia received an "honorable mention" recently for her entry in the Great Lakes Pastel Society's 2023 Members Juried Exhibition showing through Friday, Aug. 25, at
- [Happiness of handwritten letters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/happiness-of-handwritten-letters/) - Story and museum photos by Grace Grogan World Letter Writing Day, Sept. 1, was founded by Richard Simpkin in 2014 to pay tribute to the happiness of receiving a handwritten letter. Simpkin encourages children to step away from social media and handwrite a letter. The website WorldLetterWritingDay.com shares tips and information about the importance of
- [Summer's parting words](https://freshwater-reporter.com/summers-parting-words/) - Photo concept and image by Gordon Berg, taken at Frankfort beach in Benzie County. By Gordon Berg Whoosh! Just like that, summer’s over. Bonfires on the beach. A slow drift down the Manistee River. Ice cream sundaes from House of Flavors. In a few days it’ll all be another great summer memory. Maybe you caught
- [Pitter-pat of critters that use the Riverwalk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pitter-pat-of-critters-that-use-the-riverwalk/) - Unidentified critters (later identified) running on Manistee's Riverwalk. Photo by Jennifer Devine. Story by Jennifer Devine In April I was meandering with the kiddos on the Manistee Riverwalk one unseasonably warm day. I had to tell the kids to stop as we rounded the fish-cleaning station of the Manistee Inn and Marina because it looked
- [Benefit breakfast, auction for Arcadia resident](https://freshwater-reporter.com/benefit-breakfast-auction-for-arcadia-resident/) - From staff reports ARCADIA - A pancake breakfast and silent auction benefit will be held 8 a.m.-noon, Sun., Sept. 3, at Pleasant Valley Community Center for Arcadian Bernie Howard. Howard had a cardiac event at the finish line during the July Arcadia Daze 5K run/walk. He underwent triple-bypass surgery following the race and will be
- [Music, brews take center stage at Minnehaha Brewhaha](https://freshwater-reporter.com/music-brews-take-center-stage-at-minnehaha-brewhaha/) - From staff reports ARCADIA – Local music, brews and food will be on tap Sept. 1-2 in the parking lot of the Arcadia Marine along M-22 in this waterfront village. Festivities for the annual Minnehaha Brewhaha event begin on Friday with a brew tent and food vendors and musical group Barefoot taking the stage at
- [Patina to host ‘Women, Art and Poetry’](https://freshwater-reporter.com/patina-to-host-women-art-and-poetry/) - From staff reports ONEKAMA ‒ A two-hour “Women, Art and Poetry” event will be held 4-6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 25, at Patina, an inspirational studio gallery and boutique of reimagined resale items for the home. Patina is located at 4850 Main St., (M-22). “Social media, Zoom and texting, etc., have taken away the spontaneous energy
- [Arcadia Daze takes flight with Quimby author](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arcadia-daze-takes-flight-with-quimby-author/) - Harriet Quimby in her Blériot monoplane. Photo: Library of Congress. From staff reports A celebration of the historical achievements of Harriet Quimby, known as the Pioneering Woman of Flight and one of Arcadia’s own, will take place during the 42nd annual Arcadia Daze, July 21-23. A highlight of this year’s festival, hosted by the Arcadia
- [Harriet Quimby: Her writing soars](https://freshwater-reporter.com/harriet-quimby-her-writing-soars/) - By Louisa Loveridge Gallas Harriet Quimby (1875-1912) accomplished the soul of the following quote, often attributed to Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself. Everyone else is (already) taken.” Beyond her own path and distinctive individuality, she encouraged that dream for all of us. Her fame as a rare woman pilot and pioneer in aviation was my first
- [Harriet Quimby: Queen of the Channel Crossing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/harriet-quimby-queen-of-the-channel-crossing/) - Harriet Quimby in the cockpit of a monoplane. Photo: Library of Congress.Editor's note: This story was published in August 2020 is updated from the original. By P.G. Misty Sheehan Harriet Quimby, who spent her childhood in what is now known as Arcadia Township, was the first woman to fly across the English Channel on April
- [Kaleva Heritage Days Return, July 15-16](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kaleva-heritage-days-return-july-15-16/) - File photo of Kaleva parade down 9 Mile Road by Mark Videan. From staff reports KALEVA — No need to travel to Finland to watch the Finnish Wife Carrying Contest. This year’s Kaleva Heritage Days will bring back the sport and many family-friendly activities dear to the hearts of members of this Finnish community during
- [Tribute Bands: The beat goes on](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tribute-bands-the-beat-goes-on/) - "The Insiders: A Tribute to Tom Pett"y will be at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee on July 28. Photo courtesy of RRCA. By Gordon Berg Tribute bands are everywhere in the region this summer. At the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee are “Revival: A Tribute to the Allman
- [Summer Has No Doubts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/summer-has-no-doubts/) - Louisa Loveridge Gallas Freshwater Reporter Poet In Residence Featured photo by Mark Videan is of a dragonfly on a crocosmia stalk.
- [Snowshoeing 101: old-guy style](https://freshwater-reporter.com/snowshoeing-101-old-guy-style/) - COVER PHOTO: Guided hike led on a sunny afternoon through the woods at Ludington State Park. Photo courtesy of Alan Wernette, Park Interpreter. By Kevin Howell Hiking the woods on a snowy winter day has long been a pleasant experience for me. The wind soughing through the pines, quiet stirrings of critters among the trees,
- [Snowshoeing hikes for all](https://freshwater-reporter.com/snowshoeing-hikes-for-all/) - COVER PHOTO: Ludington State Park Interpreter Alan Wernette leads a group on his Saturday guided snowshoe hikes. By Carmelitta Tiffany. Photos by Steve Begnoche. Michigan winter and snowshoes go mitten in mitten. For many who remain in northwest Michigan year-round, winter can be as enjoyable as busy summer months. Fortunately, there are plenty of places
- [Manistee's giant sequoia to be climbed, cloned](https://freshwater-reporter.com/manistees-giant-sequoia-to-be-climbed-cloned/) - Featured photo is of Manistee's giant sequoia being climbed by a member of Archangel Ancient Tree Archive at Lake Bluff Farms. Photo by Pat Stinson. By Pat Stinson The public is invited to Lake Bluff Farms at 2 p.m., Sept. 16, when Jesse Ketchum and Jake Milarch, of Archangel Ancient Tree Archive in Copemish, will
- [Change coming to Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary](https://freshwater-reporter.com/change-coming-to-lake-bluff-bird-sanctuary/) - Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary announces new ownership of buildings previously under stewardship of Michigan Audubon. Future plans call for a retreat center.
- [Return of the Hummers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/return-of-the-hummers/) - Ruby-throated hummingbird aka "hummer." Photo: Joshua Cotton, Unsplash. By Valerie Chandler As the seasons change, so do the landscape, the people visiting the area and the winged creatures that take flight. Probably the most eagerly awaited is the return of the ruby-throated hummingbird, aka "hummer," with its iridescent green feathers, bright white belly and the
- [Flash fiction contest deadline nears](https://freshwater-reporter.com/flash-fiction-contest-deadline-nears/) - Flash fiction image by Hannah Grace, Unsplash. By Pat Stinson, using staff reports Surely you can write 100 words of fiction by tomorrow? Yes, by Wednesday, June 7. That’s the last day to submit your flash fiction story for the Manistee County Library’s Flash Fiction Contest in recognition of National Short Story Month. As the
- [Yellow Dog Café features playful critter portraits, colorful landscapes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/yellow-dog-cafe-features-playful-critter-portraits-colorful-landscapes/) - From staff reports Arcadia-based watercolorist/illustrator Emily Cook is the featured artist from mid-May through June at Yellow Dog Café, 4850 Main Street (M-22) in Onekama. Both her original works and prints will be available for sale. Cook, a contributing writer for Freshwater Reporter and other area publications, said she has been creating two-dimensional imagery of
- [Red wine rebellion](https://freshwater-reporter.com/red-wine-rebellion/) - Photo of Freakshow red wine label by Mark Videan. By Gordon Berg I like wine. Reds mostly. But I must confess. I’m not a wine connoisseur. Sure, I like red wine ⸺ my cabs, my merlots and my malbecs. But if I’m being truthful, I can’t tell one from the other. I’ve tried. My palate
- [Art park begins Michigan Blue installation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/art-park-begins-michigan-blue-installation/) - Eve Gilbert, a Michigan Legacy Art Park volunteer, with a "Michigan Blue" round ready to install. Courtesy photo. Freshwater Reporter asked Patricia Innis, education director of Michigan Legacy Art Park at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, about the park’s “Michigan Blue” spring-into-summer art project for classrooms and the public. Since we conducted this Q&A several weeks
- [Fomalhaut and the case of the missing planets](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fomalhaut-and-the-case-of-the-missing-planets/) - Fomalhaut: Look up in the pre-dawn in mid-June. Image from the Star Walk 2 App. By Brooke Edwards The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) did it again. It has awed us once more, this time revealing a secret long hidden by a star. Fomalhaut, the 18th brightest star visible from Earth (not counting our Sun)
- [Wishes for 2022 from a Beatles Nerd](https://freshwater-reporter.com/wishes-for-2022-from-a-beatles-nerd/) - Paul McCartney's new two-volume collection of song lyrics. Photo by Gordon Berg. By Gordon Berg Okay. I confess. I am a Beatles Nerd. As a kid I had a Beatles wig. I had a six-inch-tall stack of Beatles trading cards. And of course, there was the music. As an adult, I soak up podcasts about
- [Idlewild inspires new sculpture for Michigan Legacy Art Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/idlewild-inspires-new-sculpture-planned-for-michigan-legacy-art-park/) - By Kevin Howell Idlewild, a small community in Lake County once famous for its role as an African American lake resort and music venue, will soon be represented at the Michigan Legacy Art Park at Crystal Mountain, a recreational resort bordering northern Manistee County. A fundraiser called “Building A Sculpture” is underway to raise monies
- [Gun violence solutions envisioned](https://freshwater-reporter.com/gun-violence-solutions-envisioned/) - Photo by Pedro Latsa, Unsplash. By Stewart A. McFerran A response in one local community to gun violence and mass shootings has resulted in a buyback program for assault weapons. Eligible assault-style firearms can be anonymously turned in to the Ludington Police Department at 408 S. Harrison St. in Ludington on Sat., May 20, from
- [New trails at Lower Woodcock Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/new-trails-at-lower-woodcock-lake/) - Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy staff look for a nest on the trail above Lower Woodcock Lake. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran I first met a bearded Glen Chown near Lower Woodcock Lake in the early 1990s when my neighbor was giving him a tour of that large property just north of our
- [Imagination meets celebration at spring art exhibit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/imagination-meets-celebration-at-spring-art-exhibit/) - From staff reports MANISTEE—Vibrant color, imagery and figures dominate a new exhibit of quilts and paintings called “Nanok & Kowaleski: A Duo Art Exhibition” showing now in the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, 101 Maple St. The works of Nancy Davis “Nanok” and Ann Kowaleski are currently displayed in Hardy Hall Gallery through June
- [OAC reception for 'Floral Explosion' artist](https://freshwater-reporter.com/oac-reception-for-floral-explosion-artist/) - From staff reports A public reception will be held 5-7 p.m., Sat., May 6, at Oliver Art Center in Frankfort for artist Theresa Youngman of Traverse City. Youngman's "Floral Explosion" exhibit offers colorful depictions of flowers, gardens, landscapes, and rivers on display now through May 19 in the North Hall and Fisher Room of OAC.
- ['Art Snake Road Show' travels to Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/art-snake-road-show-travels-to-ludington/) - This painting by Jamey Barnard can be seen in the "Art Snake Road Show" in Ludington. Image courtesy of the artist. From staff reports LUDINGTON – Works from the region’s “Art Snake” artists will be featured during the "Art Snake Road Show" to be held May 5-26 in the main gallery of Ludington Area Center
- [Guided spring wildflower hikes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/guided-spring-wildflower-hikes/) - Trillium at Dry Hill Trail. Photo: Mark Videan. From staff reports The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and Michigan Legacy Art Park will offer guided wildflower hikes in May. The hikes take place in southern Benzie County. A statement on the conservancy’s website offers a warning about the early emergence and prevalence of ticks this
- [Is it here yet?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/is-it-here-yet/) - First backyard crocus poked up between snowfalls in mid-March. Ramblings of a winter-weary writer Story and photos by Kevin Howell It begins when that goofy, ground-dwelling rodent pops out of a hole in February to predict the start of spring. That’s the point when I’m ready for the cold stuff to just leave and the
- [Lightfoot: Understanding the 'Wherefore and Why'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lightfoot-understanding-the-wherefore-and-why/) - Gordon Lightfoot performing at Interlochen several years ago. Courtesy photo. By McStellar As kids, my brothers and I were taught by our grandmother that proper road trip preparation includes Twizzlers and plenty of music to set the mood. Gordon Lightfoot had become so expected and ingrained in our family’s road trip repertoire that any one
- [Treat Farm forest wildflowers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/treat-farm-forest-wildflowers/) - Treat Farm flowers. Photo: Lynn McAndrews By P.G. Misty Sheehan My favorite place to walk in spring is at the Treat Farm, part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The farm is located south of the village of Empire on West Norconk Road, west of M-22. Park your car at the bend in the
- [Watch for Spring Ephemerals](https://freshwater-reporter.com/watch-for-spring-ephemerals/) - Spring ephemerals to watch for include spring beauties (left) and trout lilies. Photo: Shelly Stusick. By Emily Cook Notes of spring are becoming readily apparent. Birds have returned to provide a chorus in the early morning hours, and spring peepers make their unmistakable call as the sun begins to set later each day. Sleepy trails
- [Patina to bring more art to Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/patina-to-bring-more-art-to-onekama/) - From staff reports ONEKAMA ‒ Patina will open for its fifth season on May 12, and half the space will be dedicated to a new art gallery and workshop. Featured artists will rotate each weekend. Owner Nikki Schneider said the schedule is filling quickly, and artisans confirmed so far are: Red Bush Breads, May 12-13;
- [Cleanse your soles](https://freshwater-reporter.com/cleanse-your-soles/) - Boot brush stations like the one pictured above are installed by the Invasive Species Network of Northwest Michigan. Photo by Pat Stinson. By Pat Stinson Way back when, I bought a boot brush. Not the hand-held kind. This foot-long brush with a wooden frame and stiff black bristles rested on the ground. It kept the
- [Why are so many evergreens turning brown?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/why-are-so-many-evergreens-turning-brown/) - Forester Josh Shields says he has received many questions asking why so many evergreens are turning brown this summer. The answer is complicated.
- [Balsam makes scents](https://freshwater-reporter.com/balsam-makes-scents/) - By Jennifer Devine Cover photo of "Gert" next to a small balsam fir tree by Christine Stapleton. Balsam fir (Abies balsamea), also known as Balm-of-Gilead or silver pine, is a cold-loving fir tree found above the Climatic Tension Zone (CTZ). Benzie, Manistee, Mason, Lake and Wexford counties all fall within the Hardwood-Conifer Forest, which follows
- [The Changing Face of our Forests](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-changing-face-of-our-forests/) - ATREP founder Madeline Baroli with a flag for shagbark hickory, one of the southern Michigan tree species sold by some Northern Michigan conservation district offices. ATREP courtesy photo. By Stewart A. McFerran I have observed ash, beech and cedar trees dying on my property and in the adjacent state forest. I wonder what this means
- [Some Like It HOT!!!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/some-like-it-hot/) - Story by Joshua Elie Since I’ve traveled so much, I’m often asked what the most “wonderful” place in the world is. My answer is always home, as in northwest Michigan, though if I didn't love winter so much and if I enjoyed hot temperatures I would have to say the French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana.
- [‘2040’ film: climate solutions possible now](https://freshwater-reporter.com/2040-film-climate-solutions-possible-now/) - By Stewart A. McFerran Strategies to reverse climate change are already within our grasp, is the message of Australian filmmaker Damon Gameau in his inspiring 2019 documentary film “2040”. Area environmental organizations invite everyone to hear the film’s message of hope and resilience during a 7 p.m., April 25 free showing at the Vogue Theatre
- [The future of local media to be discussed](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-future-of-local-media-to-be-discussed/) - From staff reports Local media matters more than ever, according to the hosts of this morning's upcoming virtual discussion with local journalists. Find out how local media is relevant now more than ever. Ed Ronco of Interlochen Public Radio will host a 90-minute kitchen table chat beginning at 10 a.m. today with area journalists about
- [She Has Words Like Thunder](https://freshwater-reporter.com/she-has-words-like-thunder/) - By Valerie Chandler Living in quiet Maple City, Michigan is multiple award-winning Native American author Lois Beardslee. A Lacondon/Ojibwe teacher, artist, illustrator and former cherry farmer, Beardslee will speak about socioeconomic perspectives as an Anishinaabe author at 7 p.m., April 13, in Milliken Auditorium at Dennos Museum Center on the Northwestern Michigan College campus in
- [Step aside, Buzz Lightyear](https://freshwater-reporter.com/step-aside-buzz-lightyear/) - Image from Pixabay. By Brooke Edwards More than 600 people have flown to space, yet less than 80 are female. This statistic mirrors how women are viewed by society, as well as themselves. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Today, many of the science and technology roles are still considered by some to
- [2nd annual Great Lakes Environmental Festival coming to Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/2nd-annual-great-lakes-environmental-festival-coming-to-manistee/) - By Shirley Madden Learn what is happening to our earth and what we can do to help create a sustainable environment during the 2nd annual Great Lakes Environmental Festival (GLEF) to be held April 21-23 in downtown Manistee. GLEF is honoring Earth Day, April 22, with a weekend of free activities. Community members are invited
- [Ludington to host Earthwork tour](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ludington-to-host-earthwork-tour/) - Ludington Area Center for the Arts is one stop of five Michigan concerts planned for April by the Earthwork Collective, which has not performed since 2018.
- [Q&A with 51st Circuit Court Judge Susan Sniegowski](https://freshwater-reporter.com/qa-with-51st-circuit-court-judge-susan-sniegowski/) - Judge Susan K. Sniegowski is the first woman to preside over Michigan’s 51st Circuit Court, serving Mason and Lake counties. Courtesy photo. By Carmelitta Tiffany Susan K. Sniegowski broke the glass ceiling in 2005, becoming Mason County’s first female prosecuting attorney. She didn’t stop there. She is presently serving her second term as the first
- [Michigan's Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 19-25](https://freshwater-reporter.com/michigans-severe-weather-awareness-week-march-20-26-2022/) - For Michigan's Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 20-26, we recall a big storm that touched down between Manistee and Ludington and learn how to be prepared.
- [The Enduring Legacy of Margaret Chandler](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-enduring-legacy-of-margaret-chandler/) - By P.G. Misty Sheehan and Pat Stinson. Photos courtesy of the Chandler family. Hard work. Perseverance. Honesty. Integrity. These attributes describe Margaret Bailey Chandler (1929-1997), who encouraged these values in her nine children: Bonnie, Sandra, Thomas, Robert, Mary, Dale, Timothy, Jeffrey and Janette. Her enduring legacy goes beyond Margaret Chandler's children, however. Those qualities led
- [When the internet fails rural areas, who loses?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/opinion-when-the-internet-fails-rural-areas-who-loses/) - A quick visit to speedtest.net can show you how fast your internet connection is. Photo by Joshua Elie. By Joshua Elie Do you care if you are getting what you are paying for? I do. Say you are making monthly payments on a truck promised to get you more than 25 miles to the gallon,
- [May bursts with blooms at Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary](https://freshwater-reporter.com/may-bursts-with-blooms-at-loda-lake-natural-wildflower-sanctuary/) - Loda Lake, the only U.S. wildflower sanctuary on national forest lands, is in Michigan's Newaygo County. Writer Kevin Howell visited recently to see the blooms.
- [Luther, Michigan: from logging camp to tourist community](https://freshwater-reporter.com/luther_michigan_from_logging_camp_to_tourist_community/) - Luther, from a former logging camp of 5,000 to a community of fewer than 400, serves a growing numberf tourists to the area's trails, lakes and campgrounds.
- [New documentary cements Marlborough's boom-to-bust history](https://freshwater-reporter.com/new-documentary-cements-marlboroughs-boom-to-bust-history/) - Remains of kilns at the site of the former Great Northern Portland Cement Company, 1929. Photo courtesy of Lake County Historical Society. Story by Kevin Howell Just a few miles southwest of Baldwin lie the ruins of what once was the largest cement plant in Michigan, if not the world. Rubble of homes, remnants of
- [Cherries in February? What's that about?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/cherries-in-february-whats-that-about/) - Featured photo: TOP-First generation of Kistlers in Mason County, photo circa 1909. Ron's grandfather Maurice is sitting on his father John's lap. (Courtesy photo.) BOTTOM-The newest generation of Kistlers include three boys to carry on the family name. (Photo by Carmelitta Tiffany.) EDITOR'S NOTE: This story is updated from the original version published on Feb.15,
- [An Alfredo Adventure](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-sauce-boss-an-alfredo-adventure/) - Story and photos by Joshua Elie I don't know why they called our job Ski Patrol ⸺ not at that resort, anyway. Granted, if somebody were to make a total arse of themselves, it was a ski patroller’s job to deal with it, but I never once saw that behavior. What I did see was
- [Flaming Emeralds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/flaming-emeralds/) - Above: Hovering over a shot glass of Flaming Emeralds is Northwoods Sauce Boss Joshua Elie. Photos courtesy of the writer. By Joshua Elie When I was in high school, all of us “good teenagers” would gather in Cartier Park, a campground on M-116, north of Ludington. I was always invited because I could play guitar
- [The only gig I ever missed](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-only-gig-i-ever-missed/) - The only gig I ever missed happened because I landed in the hospital, where learned I needed to gain weight. Swapping recipes led me to this one for chaffles.
- [Area artists to bring nature to downtown Baldwin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/area-artists-to-bring-nature-to-downtown-baldwin/) - Vicki Beyer, a member of the Lake County Artist Collective, likes colorful rainbow trout, but she said she may swap this mural image for a brown trout due to its historical significance to Baldwin. Paintings of scenes in nature by Lake County, Michigan artists are part of a mural project planned for an exterior wall
- [Dancing in the kitchen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/dancing-in-the-kitchen/) - "Dancing in the Kitchen" takes readers from Michigan to the Seychelles and back again, with a celebration homecoming and homemade cheese
- [The Easy Run](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-easy-run/) - Me, 4, on cross-country skis at my grandparents' farm. I don't remember being on skis then, so it obviously was not a traumatic experience. Photo courtesy of the writer. By Grace Grogan My last Christmas at home, my parents gave me a set of cross-country skis. Trying them out in the driveway, I found them
- [State fish hatcheries 'going solar'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/state-fish-hatcheries-going-solar/) - From staff reports Two area state fish hatcheries, one in Wexford County and another in Benzie County, are among five to benefit this year from the installation of new solar arrays, according to Dan Sampson, regional hatchery manager of Michigan Department of Natural Resources' Fisheries Division. Other state fish hatcheries receiving solar arrays are located
- [The 'Bird Lady' of Michigan: Edith Munger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-bird-lady-of-michigan-edith-munger/) - 'Bird Lady' Edith Munger of Hart, Michigan. Photo courtesy of Oceana County Historical and Genealogical Society. By P.G. Misty Sheehan Edith Munger (1865-1945) loved birds. She was raised in Whitehall and lived in Hart, Michigan with her husband, son and eventual grandchildren. Her desk at home was situated so she could look over her bird
- [Vote nears for local environmentalist nominated for national award](https://freshwater-reporter.com/vote-nears-for-local-environmentalist-nominated-for-national-award/) - Left: AFFEW President and environmentalist Julia Chambers. Right: Helping to install water filters in Honduras with assistance from young friends and Rotary Charities. Courtesy photos. By Pat Stinson UPDATE: Local environmentalist Julia Chambers received enough votes to place #2 for the national award, so AFFEW was granted $15,000 from Cox Conserves. Mason County resident Julia
- [Sand mining and the disappearance of Lake Michigan dunes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sand-mining-and-the-disappearance-of-lake-michigan-dunes/) - Prior to sand mining, dunes lay on this wide expanse of Manistee's Fifth Avenue beach. Photo by S.A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran The shoreline of Lake Michigan has been shown to be vulnerable to erosion, as high waters batter sandy banks. The sand has proven to be pliable, as shoreline communities shaped their harbors
- [Seeing the Bright Side: A conversation with Pamela Lynch, O.D.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/seeing-the-bright-side-a-conversation-with-pamela-lynch-o-d/) - By Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas During the last year, I became the patient of a new optometrist in Manistee after my previous eye doctor went into semi-retirement. So, with trepidation — don’t we all worry about new medical providers? — I visited the Coastal Woods Vision office. I was rewarded with a friendly and proficient examination by Dr.
- [Smart feet don’t fly (without wings)](https://freshwater-reporter.com/smart-feet-dont-fly-without-wings/) - By Ron Schmidt We just had our first big snowstorm of the season and I have been reminded of one of my favorite cold-weather songs, “Winter Wonderland”. The lyrics with the refrain, “Walking in a winter wonderland”, make it sound so peaceful and relaxing. There’s no hint of the danger of falling on slippery sidewalks
- [Look to springtails, not groundhogs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/look-to-springtails-not-groundhogs/) - By Jennifer Devine. Featured photo from Pixabay. Snow fleas (Hypogastrura nivicola) are tiny arthropods. According to Britannica, 84% of all known Earth species are arthropods, which have exoskeletons. This phylum includes insects, mites, centipedes, millipedes, spiders, and crustaceans such as lobsters and crabs. Snow fleas are related more closely to lobsters and crabs than any
- [Property sleuths: surveyors in our sights](https://freshwater-reporter.com/property-sleuths-surveyors-in-our-sights/) - Steve Bye in the field with his Leica robotic surveying instrument. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran A surveyor’s workplace is your yard, your property and your neighbor’s yard. Surveyors are sleuths. They investigate every corner of your property and the surrounding land for markers. Sometimes those markers are steel rods, sometimes they are
- [An Idlewilder’s place in Black history](https://freshwater-reporter.com/an-idlewilders-place-in-black-history/) - Joe Lindsey, 85, long time resident of Idlewild, recounted stories from his more than 50 years living in the area. Photo by Kevin Howell By Kevin Howell Looking for a story in anticipation of Black History Month, and knowing Idlewild has a place in that history, I turned to Lake County Historical Society researcher Bruce
- [Puzzles: Peace by piece](https://freshwater-reporter.com/puzzles-peace-by-piece/) - Susan Hintz pauses from a Colorado-themed jigsaw puzzle set up on her puzzling table at the Looney Bin. Photo: Dan Hintz. By Susan Hintz With plantar fasciitis sidelining me from beachcombing, I was in search of a new hobby. One day, while canvassing the local big box store, my eyes caught sight of a loon
- [(Not) Driving in snow](https://freshwater-reporter.com/not-driving-in-snow/) - Featured photo - Thom Holmes on Unsplash. Story and below photos by Kevin Howell I’m sitting here watching snow falling hard and blowing. Windchills are dropping, and I’m remembering other years of snow and winter driving excursions. Pondering past times, I realize I didn’t mind driving in snow so much when I was about 50
- [Swimmers need a place to swim](https://freshwater-reporter.com/swimmers-need-a-place-to-swim/) - Left to right: Camp Corwood founder and Manistee swimming coach Corey Van Fleet with swim team members Gigi Hanson, Marina Reid and Tatum Jensen at Wile Lake in Irons. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran I learned to swim at a municipal beach on a lake in my hometown of North Muskegon. I rode
- [Swimming is elemental](https://freshwater-reporter.com/swimming-is-elemental/) - Beginning swimming class at Bellows Beach on Crystal Lake. Photo courtesy of Diane Tracy, Benzie Aquatic Center. By Stewart A. McFerran Swimming is elemental, the joy of it and the fear of it. The danger of it can be existential for those without the training to enter the water. As one who has taught “Safety
- [St. Urho’s Day 2021 Fundraiser](https://freshwater-reporter.com/st-urhos-day-fundraiser/) - This giant metal grasshopper sculpture can be seen at the Centennial Walkway in Kaleva. Photo by Mark Videan. By Pat Stinson KALEVA – A bakeless bake sale? Thanks to the pandemic, the 2021 St. Urho’s Day Bake Sale at Kaleva Art Gallery is happening without its signature sale of tasty treats, like Finnish nissua, grasshopper
- [Near and Farr Friends' winter/spring schedule announced](https://freshwater-reporter.com/near-and-farr-friends-winter-and-spring-schedule-announced/) - Cover photo: Author Tricia Frey (right) with Christine Stapleton and her border collie "Light". Stapleton purchased a signed copy of Frey's new book about her Sheltie, called "Sheldon's Journey", during a November program of Near and Farr Friends held at the Onekama Township Hall. From staff reports ONEKAMA ‒ This month marks the Near and
- [Nordic Skiing Manistee: an ode to Michigan winters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nordic-skiing-manistee-an-ode-to-michigan-winters/) - COVER PHOTO: Joe Frederick strikes a pose with one ski while cross-country skiing in Arcadia Dunes. Story and photos by Emily Cook. While I was in high school, I went with my dad to purchase my first set of cross-country skis. Living downstate at the time, we ventured to Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus in Grand
- [Giving the Gift of Art](https://freshwater-reporter.com/giving-the-gift-of-art/) - Ahead of the holiday gift-giving season, we’re featuring three talented area artist-makers whose works, created with inspiration and imagination, are available online and/or at area shows and galleries. Meet more area artists and craftspeople in our Nov. 30 issue. Courtney Fraley City of Manistee How did you decide to work in jewelry and, specifically, wire-wrapped
- [The hidden life of ermine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-hidden-life-of-ermine/) - COVER PHOTO: Ermine in its full winter coat. By Steven Hint, Wikimedia Commons. By Jennifer Devine Living in a mostly untouched 20-acre forest, we’ve been able to see our share of native plants and animals. From the normal deer and mice to animals my eyes had never seen previously, like ruffed grouse and bald eagles.
- [Grooming new Nordic skiers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/grooming-new-nordic-skiers/) - Cover photo: At Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, instructor Ian teaches students how to get the most out of their skate skis. Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran It’s time for winter sports, and as the Olympics kick off near the Great Wall of China, students in area public schools will be practicing Nordic (aka
- [Curling sweeps the counties](https://freshwater-reporter.com/curling-sweeps-the-counties/) - Story and cover photo by Stewart A. McFerran The Traverse City Curling Club will host an open house, 11:30 a.m.‒3 p.m., Jan. 28 and 29, at its new curling center located at 1712 S. Garfield Ave. in Traverse City. Don Piche learned about curling eight years ago and was able to find and bring together
- [Got milkweed? Yes, in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/got-milkweed/) - Life of a milkweed pod. Photo by Jennifer Devine. Story by Jennifer Devine NOTE: Always do your own research and accompany an experienced forager before harvesting any wild plant. Described uses and health benefit claims are solely those of the author and sources. You can’t drive down the road right now without seeing fuzzy white
- [Roadside show: late spring wildflowers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/roadside-show-late-spring-wildflowers/) - COVER: Photograph of a cornflower. By Jennifer Devine A rainbow of color is about to brighten your daily travels. So-called ditch flowers are anything but dull, though they may be common. As the weeks go by, the blooms might change, but the spectacle doesn’t. Look for my roadside “ditch lists” of flowers blooming each month
- [Loon Rangers: To Observe and Protect](https://freshwater-reporter.com/loon-rangers-to-observe-and-protect/) - By Pat Stinson From his living room window, Dale Doepker uses his telescope to spot loons in their nest on an island 100 yards from his dock. Doepker said the loons nested on the island’s opposite shore this year so he could not see them or their eggs, as he had in years past. Instead,
- [Understanding Michigan's Black Bears](https://freshwater-reporter.com/understanding-michigans-black-bears/) - Black bears in Michigan go through 5 wake/sleep cycles each year. Their diet and behavior changes with the seasons. Improve natural bear habitat.
- [Stop! That’s not Chaga](https://freshwater-reporter.com/stop-thats-not-chaga/) - Black knot on a fruit tree. Photo by Pat Stinson. By Jennifer Devine Editor’s note: This article appeared as a post on the Facebook page of Michigan Survival and Homesteading Guide, an informational blog written by the author. An edited version is reprinted here by permission. Black Cherry Tree Step outside and see our
- [Seeing red: showstopping native plants](https://freshwater-reporter.com/seeing-red-showstopping-native-plants/) - By Jennifer Devine Every winter I find myself falling into a state of dormancy. The cold, darker days to me are a time of rest. A time to recharge, to help us bounce into the next year with vigor. Dormancy for animals means their normal bodily functions are slowed or suspended for a time, as
- [Space News: Look to the sky and screen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/space-news-look-to-the-sky-and-screen/) - By Mark Videan The sky Later this month, a newly sighted comet (first spotted by present-day humans in early March 2022) may be bright enough to see with the naked eye and certainly by using binoculars or a telescope. Known officially as comet C/2022 E3(ZTF), its closest approach to Earth (within 26 million miles) will
- [Wide wheelin' in winter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/wide-wheelin-in-winter/) - Photo essay by John Nale I bike all winter long with my fat tire bike. I have found that with my snowsuit and the heat from exercise, I usually feel very warm ⸺ even in the coldest temperatures. Winter biking is incredibly beautiful, and I find that I’m usually the only one out there. Colorful
- [Local conservation districts receive awards](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-conservation-districts-receive-awards/) - From staff reports Pictured above: Manistee Conservation District staff beams as they show their award for Conservation District of the Year. From left: Conservation Technician Tyler Dula, Outreach Coordinator Kendra Dula, Forester and Wildlife Biologist Josh Shields, Conservation Technician Chelsea Cooper, Michigan Association of Conservation Districts President Jerry Miller, Manistee CD Board Member Sharon Goble
- [Snoopy to fly to the Moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/snoopy-to-fly-to-the-moon/) - By Brooke Edwards Have you seen the Moon in the night sky lately? Soon you’ll be able to look up and realize there are humans on its surface. This will be the result of NASA’s ambitious Artemis program, which will once again send humans to the Moon, including the first woman and a person of
- [A pioneer's camp legacy and the Martin Johnson Heritage Museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-pioneers-camp-legacy/) - Martin Johnson Heritage Museum in Irons, Michigan. Photo courtesy of the museum. By Pat Stinson What do singer Natalie Cole, playwright/director David Mamet and sportscaster Bryant Gumbel have in common? As youngsters, they attended the YMCA-owned Camp Martin Johnson on Big Bass Lake in northwest Lake County. More than 100 young people attended one of
- [The Christmas Giving Tree](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-christmas-giving-tree/) - A MI Backyard chicken perches and pecks at an evergreen tree placed in its coop. Photo by Jennifer Devine. MI BACKYARD By Jennifer Devine NOTE: Identifying and safely using evergreens as described here takes knowledge and practice. Always consult with an experienced forager or herbalist and your doctor or veterinarian before ingesting or allowing your
- [Nonprofit story roundup for 2022](https://freshwater-reporter.com/nonprofit-story-round-up-for-2022/) - By Pat Stinson We wanted to take a look back at the nonprofit organizations we highlighted or mentioned in our stories this year. If one of these stories touched you in some way, perhaps you'll consider making a donation to one or more of these charitable causes. 1st Neighbor (Idlewild): 1stneighbor.org Story: Idle no more:
- [Animal sanctuary offers care, kindness](https://freshwater-reporter.com/animal-sanctuary-offers-care-kindness/) - Horses at Amnesty Freedom Farm, an animal sanctuary located in Brethren, Michigan. Story and photos by Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas MANISTEE COUNTY ‒ Outside Brethren, on Farnsworth Road, is a special place. The 40-acre farm has been there more than 100 years, but the animal sanctuary only since July 2020. This spring, a discovery was made on
- [Radianza](https://freshwater-reporter.com/radianza/) - Radianza By Louisa Loveridge Gallas Pears. Whoever named you must have been tired while harvesting in the orchard. You should have light in your name, “radianza,” “peartasia,” murmurations of vowels not one syllable closed quickly with consonants! Fruitful teardrop of bright flesh freshness of cool water Van Gogh, Monet, Matisse illuminate you in gleaming
- [Remembering Apollo 8's Christmas Eve message, iconic photo](https://freshwater-reporter.com/apollo-8s-christmas-message-and-iconic-photo-still-resonate/) - "Earthrise" is the iconic photo taken on Christmas Eve, 1968, by astronaut William A. Anders. Photo courtesy of NASA. By Brooke Edwards, Area NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador It is debatable which celestial object was followed by the three wise men of the first Christmas. What we do know is the first time a human-made
- [How the dark skies of Manistee changed my life](https://freshwater-reporter.com/how-the-dark-skies-of-manistee-changed-my-life/) - The dark sky in Free Soil made it possible for Brooke Edwards, NASA Solar System Ambassador, to take this photograph of the constellation Pegasus. She used a DSLR camera and tripod to take a long exposure with an ISO of approx. 6400. By Brooke Edwards I grew up on the outskirts of Philadelphia, and light
- [Birth of a Blood Moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/birth-of-a-blood-moon/) - Photo of Blood Moon by TeamwerkAG, Pixabay. By Brooke Edwards If you were up early on Nov. 8, you may have noticed an odd sight in the sky through the passing clouds: a blood red Moon. This proceeded an eerie, slow darkening of the Full Moon. For those not familiar with astronomy, this can be
- [Snurfer Girl Wendy Poppen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/snurfer-girl-wendy-poppen/) - Wendy Poppen, first-ever snurfer, accepted an award for her father, the late Sherm Poppen, inducted into the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame in March 2022.
- [‘Dropping in’ on a Snurfer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/dropping-in-on-a-snurfer/) - By Stewart A. McFerran Snowboarding has become a worldwide phenomenon. The big air tricks of mega stars, such as Shaun White in the Olympic Half Pipe, rival the traditional Nordic pursuit of Alpine skiing. You may be surprised to know it all began in the dunes of West Michigan, where my friends and I pursued
- [Holiday Magic (We need it)](https://freshwater-reporter.com/holiday-magic-we-need-it/) - By Judy Cools There’s no denying that the holidays will be different this year. The coronavirus touches daily life for all of us – the way we work, the way we shop, the things we do online, instead of in person. Traditionally, winter holidays bring comfort, a touchstone to our backgrounds, a reconnect with family.
- [Heading into the light](https://freshwater-reporter.com/heading-into-the-light/) - Townsfolk and others gathered in Copemish Tuesday evening to walk the winter solstice spiral of evergreen boughs laid by Archangel Ancient Tree Archive. Story and photos by Nikki Schneider I finished skiing at Crystal Mountain yesterday afternoon and decided to attend the Winter Solstice Spiral Walk held last night in Copemish. It was the first time
- [Gifts for nature lovers at national forest stores](https://freshwater-reporter.com/gifts-for-nature-lovers-at-national-forest-stores/) - File photo. Story and photos by Pat Stinson Wondering what to give your adventure-seeking, nature-loving or wildlife-watching friends and family this holiday season? If you live in Manistee or Lake counties, your national forest ranger station store offers books, guide books, maps, calendars, socks, hats, t-shirts, hoodies, small stuffed animals, Huron-Manistee National Forest logo merchandise
- [Michigan Legacy Art Park: not just a walk in the woods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/michigan-legacy-art-park-not-just-a-walk-in-the-woods/) - The amphitheater in the forest at Michigan Legacy Art Park, located at Crystal Mountain, includes rustic bench seating for concert listeners. Story and most photos by Stewart A. McFerran A forest of large trees dominates the shoulders of Crystal Mountain. Among the trees is a park with steep trails called the Michigan Legacy Art Park.
- [Ludington State Park sees coastal invaders: Little acts can stop this hemlock hitchhiker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ludington-state-park-sees-coastal-invaders-little-acts-can-stop-this-hemlock-hitchhiker/) - White egg sacs of the hitchhiking hemlock woolly adelgid. Courtesy photo. By Emily Cook I did not grow up in northern Michigan. My home, a few hours south, was tucked next to state park acreage in the middle of the state. The landscape was of rolling hills previously cleared for row crops. Despite being a
- [The Unsung Stretch of M-22](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-unsung-stretch-of-m-22/) - Scott and Lynn Brown, owners of GasolineRefind of Bear Lake. Photo by Milton F. Whitmore. By Milton F. Whitmore Northwest Michigan’s most celebrated scenic highway, M-22, has garnered many awards from tourist associations, chambers of commerce and others. This pleasant drive winds roughly parallel to Lake Michigan. The highway slips easily through small towns and
- [What's up, Dock? Dock crews get 'er done](https://freshwater-reporter.com/whats-up-doc-dock-crews-get-er-done/) - Two crew members of Glen Lake Property Management Group lay out dock sections prior to assembly. Photo by Don Sielaff. By Stewart A. McFerran and Pat Stinson Many enjoy strolling on their docks to the lakefront, where a wide array of watercraft is moored. Not many think about who installed those docks and the effort
- [Maxwelltown and the Painted Lady](https://freshwater-reporter.com/maxwelltown-and-the-painted-lady/) - Painted Lady Saloon is on the corner of Eighth and Kosciusko streets in Maxwelltown, Manistee. Built in the mid-1880s, the building has housed a bar since the 1890s. Photo by Kevin Howell. By Kevin Howell Bob Venne was sitting at the bar of the Painted Lady Saloon, nursing a pint of beer with his buddy
- [Woodworking wonders at Shrine of the Pines](https://freshwater-reporter.com/woodworking-wonders-at-shrine-of-the-pines/) - This 500-pound round table is a centerpiece of the furniture museum at Shrine of the Pines. It was formed from a single 700-pound stump and includes several carved-out cubby holes. Photo by Kevin Howell. By Kevin Howell A few miles south of Baldwin, in western Lake County, a gravel drive extends from M-37 several hundred
- [Backroads to Baldwin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/backroads-to-baldwin/) - Story and photos by Kevin Howell When I was a kid, my parents would pack my brother, me and the dog into the family car for a Sunday afternoon outing. Those drives included a bucket of fried chicken and all the trimmings. We would dig into them at some lonesome picnic table along a two-lane
- [Idle no more: renovations begin on Idlewild’s landmark hotel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/idle-no-more-renovations-begin-on-idlewilds-landmark-hotel/) - Casa Blanca Hotel renovations are underway in the community of Idlewild, Michigan to bring back the building's former grandeur.
- [Finding peace among the pieces](https://freshwater-reporter.com/finding-peace-among-the-pieces/) - By Pat Stinson The sound of breaking dishes in her great-grandmother’s kitchen one evening was Tricia Boucha’s introduction to the fine art of mosaics. Sent at age 7 to live for the summer with her relative Eva Strauss, Boucha felt her presence in the household had upset her great-grandmother’s life and angered her. Instead, Strauss
- [The Wild Wonders of Walking](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-wild-wonders-of-walking/) - Story and photo by Christina Ryan-Stoltz Every morning I choose my own adventure by deciding where to take my daily walk. The first thing I do is to get myself quiet enough to hear precisely what my spirit needs. Is this a sidewalk, cityscape and bay view kind of day? Will I take the secret
- [Happy Trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/happy-trails/) - By Brian Allen Through the years, our family and guests have selected our top three favorite hikes in the area. We feel these are also the best in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Long Hikes These are hikes of more than a couple miles, a bit too much for toddlers, aunts and uncles with bad knees, or
- [Witch-hazel: not just for medicine cabinets](https://freshwater-reporter.com/witch-hazel-not-just-for-medicine-cabinets/) - Photo of witch-hazel by Laura Ockel, Unsplash. MI BACKYARD By Jennifer Devine With bright yellow flowers opening just as the leaves fall in October, Common Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a native show-off during bleak months. The ribbon-like petals of its flowers, which tolerate snow and some sub-freezing temperatures, cast spooky shadow spiders or gnarled witch
- [Answers in the Tree](https://freshwater-reporter.com/answers-in-the-tree/) - By Stewart A. McFerran There are lots of things to observe at Cognition Science and Discovery Center in Beulah. All five senses are best used here. Located across U.S. Highway 31 from the Cherry Hut, the nonprofit center has a fresh, contemporary feel with a time-honored mission: to help people learn through hands-on experiences that
- [Carrom: once the only game in town](https://freshwater-reporter.com/carrom-once-the-only-game-in-town/) - Editor's note: The Ludington Daily News posted a story on Nov. 24, 2022 announcing that, according to the Carrom Company's Facebook page, its once-popular Carrom boards (and Nok Hockey) will no longer be manufactured. A quick check online confirmed the news. This Freshwater Reporter story about the Carrom board, (originally titled, "Once the only game
- [The pen that built bridges and helped preserve a culture](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-pen-that-built-bridges-and-helped-preserve-a-culture/) - Photo portrait of Baamewaawaagizhigokwe or Woman of the Sound the Stars Make Rushing Through the Sky, also known as Jane Johnston Schoolcraft. Photo in the public domain. By Valerie Chandler Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan on January 31, 1800, Jane Johnston was also known as Baamewaawaagizhigokwe, meaning “Woman of the Sound the Stars Make
- [Someone dim the lights, please](https://freshwater-reporter.com/someone-dim-the-lights-please/) - Andromeda Galaxy. Photo by Dan Dallolmo, of Traverse City. By Kevin Howell It’s a gorgeous night. Standing on my front porch, I look to the sky to soak in the view of constellations, stars and planets. Out of the corner of my eye, I can’t help but notice the neighbor’s shining porch light and, down
- [Oh, Christmas Tree!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/oh-christmas-tree/) - Choosing a Christmas tree at a U-cut farm is a tradition among some families. Courtesy photo. By Jennifer Devine MI BACKYARD As of 2020, Michigan was the third-largest Christmas tree producer in the country with more than 37,000 productive acres from 500-plus tree farms providing pre-cut, U-Cut and wholesale evergreen trees. This number doesn’t include
- [‘Good berries’ grow wild in Hamlin Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/good-berries-grow-wild-in-hamlin-lake/) - Wayne Andersen, president of the Hamlin Lake Preservation Society, ready for a paddle to the manoomin bed on the northeast arm of Hamlin Lake. Photo by Stewart A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran “Old man turtle ambles along the deerpath, seeking breakfast. A strand of wild rice grass dangles from his pincer-like beak.” -Edward Abbey,
- [From aircraft to canoe: Haskell's ingenious glue](https://freshwater-reporter.com/from-aircraft-to-canoe-haskells-ingenious-glue/) - PHOTO: Haskell Canoe weight test. 3,200 pounds are supported by a 57-pound canoe. Henry Haskell, wearing a bowtie, is third from the right. Photo in the public domain. By Mark Videan LUDINGTON - Henry Haskell held three other patents, in addition to the one for the Carrom board. One of these was for the design
- [Positively Supaman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/positively-supaman/) - Story and photos by Valerie Chandler Everyone was toe-tapping in their seats or standing while waving their hands to the beat when award-winning hip-hop artist, Native American dancer and motivational speaker Christian Takes Gun Parrish, professionally known as Supaman, performed recently at the Government Center of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in Manistee.
- [Finding Peace during a Pandemic](https://freshwater-reporter.com/finding-peace-during-a-pandemic/) - By Emily Cook Editor’s Note: A version of this essay originally appeared in the July 2, 2020, edition of The Betsie Current. Reprinted by permission. I think we can all agree that March through June of this year was a blur. Perhaps your sense of time remains foggy, even now, as the news continues to
- [Art in the Valley](https://freshwater-reporter.com/art-in-the-valley/) - Story and photos by Emily Cook If you have traveled along the M-22 corridor in recent weeks, you undoubtedly will have noticed the vibrance of this autumn. I cannot recall in recent years such a stunning display of nature. Maples light the landscape with fire-like reds. Oaks and aspens follow in their wake and, just
- [‘Kiss the Ground’: a film about saving the planet’s topsoil](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kiss-the-ground-a-film-about-saving-the-planets-topsoil/) - By Pat Stinson This story from our Oct. 12, 2022 issue is updated with new information. Images courtesy of Kiss the Ground. MANISTEE - Chris Riley said he hopes people “who are questioning climate change or who may not be as aware or educated about climate change,” will attend the 7 p.m, Oct. 25, free
- [When is a mushroom not a mushroom?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/when-is-a-mushroom-not-a-mushroom/) - When It's an Indian Pipe By Jennifer Devine Rising in June under oak, beech or pine trees and blooming through September amongst decaying leaves and plant matter is a pure-white, sometimes translucent or pink-tinged flower. The plant’s 3- to 10-inch stem bends over like a cane from which hangs a single bell- or bowl-shaped flower,
- [Mystery Girl](https://freshwater-reporter.com/mystery-girl/) - By Gordon Berg Has anyone ever said something to you that came so completely out of the blue that their comment stopped you cold? This happened to me a few years ago. I was talking with James Kieszkowski, the driving force behind Manistee’s Oak Grove Cemetery, before he passed away in 2021. He had helped
- [Stinging nettle: friend, not foe](https://freshwater-reporter.com/stinging-nettle-friend-not-foe/) - Stinging nettle is found across Michigan and is valued for its versatility as a fertilizer, garden companion, dye, nutritious edible and much more.
- [Protect your oaks: Prune them now](https://freshwater-reporter.com/protect-your-oaks-prune-them-now/) - Winter is the best time to prune oak trees in western Michigan to avoid possible infection by and spread of oak wilt disease. Learn about resources to I.D. it.
- [Moon Trees to fly again](https://freshwater-reporter.com/moon-trees-to-fly-again/) - Story by Pat Stinson In May, I hugged a Moon Tree. The tall, healthy-looking sycamore was grown from a seed that flew to space in 1971 and was planted in Niles, Michigan in 1976. Many seeds flew to space on the Apollo 14 mission in an experiment to compare the effects of seeds sent to
- [Mystery Girl Solved! (Sorta)](https://freshwater-reporter.com/mystery-girl-solved-sorta/) - By Gordon Berg In the April issue of Freshwater Reporter, (https://freshwater-reporter.com/mystery-girl/), this writer made a plea to the community to help identify the infant girl who shares a gravesite with my great-grandmother. It felt like placing a note in a bottle and tossing it into the ocean. Hopeless. A few days later, the outpouring of
- [Arachnophobia 2.0: Tick, Tock. Part One.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arachnophobia-2-0-tick-tock/) - American dog tick. Photo by James Gathany. By Judy Cools. Photos courtesy of Centers for Disease Control. Spring arrived like the long-awaited cavalry to our Covid-besieged, locked-down fortress homes. Finally, warmer weather, sunshine and the season’s first flowers. At last, we began to have hope. Then we heard about the next of our trials: the
- [Arachnophobia 2.0: Tick, Tock. Part Two.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arachnophobia-2-0-tick-tock-part-two/) - This is part two of our two-part article about ticks, the disease-carrying insects we love to hate. If you missed part one in our June 30 printed edition, look for it online at: Arachnophobia 2.0: Tick, Tock. Part One. Story by Judy Cools. Images courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control. Coming Home If you’re
- [Revisiting the saunas of Kaleva](https://freshwater-reporter.com/revisiting-the-saunas-of-kaleva/) - As winter approaches, the saunas of Kaleva and traditions of the Finnish founders of this Manistee County village come to mind.
- [Local Allure](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-allure/) - By Stewart A. McFerran K.J. Scarpace worked as a mate on the Hot Ticket out of Manistee. He plied the waters of the Big Lake, pulling in lunkers for clients. During that time, he developed a lure called the Scarpace Rig that he says will outperform all others. The key is not only the pretty
- [Follow the food!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/follow-the-food/) - Story and photos by Kevin Howell Two issues ago, I began following Mason County’s Cultural Heritage Trails, beginning with the Maritime Trail, followed by the Barn Quilt Trail. Thus far, my trusty navigator Jean and I have found curious and interesting sites and discovered a few surprises on each of our sojourns through the county
- [The Covid Circus](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-covid-circus/) - By Judy Cools A year ago, you never would have believed it if someone told you what today would look like. And here we are. I won’t rehash it; you know all too well how Covid-19, the coronavirus, has changed the world. We began with over-the-top hypervigilance, wiping every door handle and light switch we
- [Waiting for This Moment to Arise](https://freshwater-reporter.com/waiting-for-this-moment-to-arise/) - Story and “selfie” photos by Gordon Berg If we’re lucky, sometimes we get that one Christmas gift that sticks with us into January of the new year … and far beyond. For me that Christmas was 1968, when I was 18. The gift was The Beatles “White Album” or #0817032, for those who remember
- [A Tap Takeover](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-tap-takeover/) - By Kevin Howell Mike Iseringhausen, owner of Northern Draught solutions, still spends days cleaning and servicing tap systems for bars, restaurants and breweries, even though the pandemic has slowed these businesses. Iseringhausen typically schedules monthly cleanings for tap systems – taking apart, cleaning and reassembling them – and handling service calls for troubleshooting and repair.
- [Meet The Beer Father: Tom Buchanan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/meet-the-beer-father-tom-buchanan/) - Story and photos by Kevin Howell When home brewing gave rise to the craft beer industry in the 1990s and early 2000s, Tom Buchanan, Brewer Emeritus at Ludington Bay Brewing in Ludington, was at the forefront of the movement. Since then, he has been an avid promoter of craft beer and a mentor to craft
- [Forgetting someone this Valentine’s Day?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/forgetting-someone-this-valentines-day/) - By Christina Ryan-Stoltz Yesterday, in a hurry to get my laundry put away, I started folding a camisole inside out, as I have countless times, knowing whenever I wear it next I would simply turn it right-side out before putting it on. No biggie except that, in this moment, the thought occurred to me to
- [Freshwater Reporter space columnist chosen for analog astronaut mission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/freshwater-reporter-space-columnist-chosen-for-analog-astronaut-mission/) - SENSORIA M3 crew members (from a previous HI-SEAS mission) suit up to go on a moonwalk outside the habitat. Photo by Gianna McLaren, courtesy of HI-SEAS. By Pat Stinson Brooke Edwards will spend her 30th birthday far from home, doing all the things expected of an astronaut on a mission to the Moon. Born March
- [Why a U.S. Secretary of Food cabinet position makes $ense](https://freshwater-reporter.com/why-a-u-s-secretary-of-food-cabinet-position-makes-ense/) - By Christine Blackledge Chef José Andrés is founder of the nonprofit World Central Kitchen, an organization that distributes food in areas affected by natural disasters. In an op-ed piece published recently in the New York Times, Andrés called for a U.S. Secretary of Food, a cabinet position that focuses specifically on food itself and the
- [Make your day: Hug a cow](https://freshwater-reporter.com/make-your-day-hug-a-cow/) - Photo courtesy of Arnaud Liegeois, Pixabay. By Ron Schmidt Daisy, Betsy and Buttercup are three cow friends I have known. In the past year many of us have missed the good feeling and warmth we get from giving and getting hugs from friends and family, as we have tried to keep each other safe from
- ['X' Marks the Spot on Jan. 1](https://freshwater-reporter.com/x-marks-the-spot-january-1/) - Rethinking resolutions for self-improvement
- [Ukraine benefit concert a success, say organizers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ukraine-benefit-concert-a-success-say-organizers/) - Crew at Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts set the stage for one of the musical acts, with Ukrainian flags in the background, during the May 6 Together for Ukraine concert fundraiser. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson Community members came together on May 6 and raised $10,000 during the "Together for Ukraine" concert fundraiser held
- [Influential women of Marilla Township](https://freshwater-reporter.com/influential-women-of-marilla-township/) - Historical photos and a timeline of the Women's Rights Movement were just a few of the items displayed during the Marilla Historical Society's March 26 event. Photo by P.G. Misty Sheehan. By P.G. Misty Sheehan The Marilla Historical Society hosted a lively Saturday afternoon event attended by 36 guests of the Marilla Museum and Pioneer
- [Life at 9.9](https://freshwater-reporter.com/life-at-9-9/) - After an outdoor life of seeking speed, one couple's water playtime goes to the dogs with the purchase of a no-frills pontoon with a 9.9 mph top speed.
- [New short plays promise laughter, drama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/new-short-plays-promise-laughter-drama/) - “An Evening of New Short Plays” is coming in September to Ludington Area Center for the Arts and Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee.
- [Spectacular September Night Skies](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spectacular-september-night-skies/) - Photo: Kendall Hoopes, Pexels. By Brooke Edwards Summer is winding down, and the days are becoming shorter. Though many are disheartened by this change in the seasons, stargazers are rejoicing. With the sun now setting well before 9 p.m., there is plenty of time to stargaze before bedtime. Saturn What was exclusively an early morning
- [Blueberry's Story](https://freshwater-reporter.com/blueberrys-story/) - A poem about the story of the blueberry, based on an Ojibwe legend.
- [Ode to Mud](https://freshwater-reporter.com/ode-to-mud/) - "Ode to Mud" by Louisa Loveridge Gallas. Most Grand Sogginess, the silent ground has meditated all these months with the stillness of monks, until now...
- [Winner of the Manistee County Library 2022 Poetry Contest](https://freshwater-reporter.com/winner-of-the-manistee-library-2022-poetry-contest/) - Photo by Gabriel Jimenez, Unsplash. We’re pleased to be able to publish the winning entry in the Manistee County Library 2022 Poetry Contest for Adults. Congratulations to area poet Louisa Loveridge Gallas, who enlivens our pages with her nature-inspired verse Basic Hygiene Our friend Ethel always had dirt underneath her fingernails even on Sundays when
- [A Rescue Dog Dreams](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-rescue-dog-dreams/) - Poem by Louisa Loveridge Gallas about the dog her family rescued from Homeward Bound Animal Shelter in Manistee, Michigan.
- [Still time to see area’s stunning mixed palette of art](https://freshwater-reporter.com/still-time-to-see-areas-stunning-mixed-palette-of-art/) - The “Art is Art” exhibition includes abstract artworks by (from left) Rufus Snoddy, Jef Bourgeau and Piers Wright, among others, at the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts in Manistee. RRCA courtesy photo. By Mark Videan Editor’s note: This article is updated from the original which referred to an exhibit and a show, now past.
- [Kids rule at Copemish Heritage Days](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kids-rule-at-copemish-heritage-days/) - Kids enjoy the Bounce House during the 2019 Copemish Heritage Days. Photo by Mark Videan. From staff reports Activities abound for Copemish Heritage Days, to be held Aug. 6-7 in the shady village park north of M-115 in Copemish. The two-day event begins with a kids’ bicycle parade on Aug. 6 at 12:30 p.m. A
- [Concert series inspired by nature](https://freshwater-reporter.com/concert-series-inspired-by-nature/) - Forest Trail Music Festival and Summer Sunset Series of concerts take place in the woods between Ludington and Manistee. Courtesy photo. By Pat Stinson Noah Cameron said watching the sun set between the trees on his family’s Forest Trail Music Festival property combines northern Michigan’s natural beauty with music, an “incredible” experience. As hosts of
- [Onekama Days celebration returns](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-days-celebration-returns/) - Onekama Lions Club float in the 2019 Onekama Days Parade. Photo by Mark Videan. From staff reports The 49th annual Onekama Days, to be held Aug. 4-8, promises music, activities and food in this two-lake town along M-22 north of Manistee. On Aug. 4, Onekama Athletic Boosters will serve a barbequed rib dinner, 5-8 p.m.,
- [Kaleva Art Gallery celebrates 25 years](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kaleva-art-gallery-celebrates-25-years/) - Kaleva Art Gallery celebrates the 25th anniversary of this artists' cooperative, offering locally handcrafted, original creations in the village of Kaleva.
- [The Art of Flintknapping](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-art-of-flintknapping/) - Robert Chandler practices the now rare art of flintknapping, shaping the stones entirely by hand to create arrowheads, bird stones, pipe bowls, knives and more.
- [Yarrr, Matey, the Pyrates be here!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/yarrr-matey-the-pyrates-be-here/) - Lakeshore Pyrate Head Club, a Ludington service organization, raises funds for the Alzheimers Association and various community causes and enlivens area events.
- [Winter's comfort food](https://freshwater-reporter.com/winters-comfort-food/) - Winter's comfort food is found in Kaleva, where the Kaleva Lions Club bakes pasties every Thursday morning at the club's headquarters on Nine Mile Road.
- [How the high winds of Manitou Passage almost claimed a sailor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/how-the-high-winds-of-manitou-passage-almost-claimed-a-sailor/) - Manitou Passage lies between Point Betsie and Leland. High winds can make the crossing to South and North Manitou islands treacherous, as one sailor learned.
- [Fourth of July Fun Facts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fourth-of-july-fun-facts/) - Fourth of July fun facts include 13 pieces of American trivia, one for each of the original 13 U.S. colonies.
- [‘Enchanted Forest' art exhibit coincides with forest festival](https://freshwater-reporter.com/enchanted-art-exhibit-coincides-with-forest-festival/) - The Enchanted Forest art exhibition, showing now through July 9 at Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, coincides with the Manistee National Forest Festival.
- [Manistee National Forest Festival returns](https://freshwater-reporter.com/manistee-national-forest-festival-returns/) - Manistee National Forest Festival returns to Douglas Park and First Street Beach along Lake Michigan for family activities, music & more, through July 4, 2022.
- [Sailors and Shipwrecks, 1861-2021](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sailors-and-shipwrecks-1861-2021/) - Modern-day sailors shipwreck off Point Betsie and their journey to get help mirrors a survivor's shipwreck story of 150 years ago.
- [Community band adds choir, two performances](https://freshwater-reporter.com/community-band-adds-choir-two-performances/) - Listen to the Manistee Community Band perform its first summer concert beginning at 7 p.m., June 21, in the Lions Pavilion at First Street Beach in Manistee.
- [Kaleva sisu results in community center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/kaleva-sisu-results-in-community-center/) - The community of Kaleva transforms a former elementary school into a gathering place for classes, meetings, exercise and more.
- [Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival marks 44th year](https://freshwater-reporter.com/spirit-of-the-woods-folk-festival-marks-44th-year/) - Spirit of the Woods Folk Festival marks 44th on June 18 with musicians from North and South America.
- [A (True) Fishy Tale](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-true-fishy-tale/) - Freshwater Reporter contributing writer Joshua Elie takes a Pennsylvania friend on his first fishing trip in the Michigan north woods and navigates adventures.
- [State park expands visitor access with track chair](https://freshwater-reporter.com/state-park-expands-visitor-access-with-tracked-chair/) - A track chair will increase visitor access to Ludington State Park trails and the beach, thanks to the nonprofit Friends of Ludington State Park.
- [Retirement buddies](https://freshwater-reporter.com/retirement-buddies/) - Freshwater Reporter contributing writer Carmelitta Tiffany describes how MissDottie, her mixed-breed dog of eight years, "adopted" her during a trying time.
- [Start Your Engines: Baldwin’s Blessing of the Bikes Begins](https://freshwater-reporter.com/start-your-engines-baldwins-blessing-of-the-bikes-begins/) - Blessing of the Bikes, Baldwin, Mich. Photo by Jerry House. By Pat Stinson Jerry House, who rides a 2010 Victory Cross Country motorcycle, was asked how he first heard of the annual Blessing of the Bikes event held in Baldwin. He replied, simply, “You hear about it when you buy a motorcycle.” This year marks
- [Pre Judge Us and Dis Crime In A Nation  (Prejudice and Discrimination in the United States of America)](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pre-judge-us-and-dis-crime-in-a-nation-prejudice-and-discrimination-in-the-united-states-of-america/) - About growing up in a homogeneous community until attending a school with a larger, more diverse student population - and personal experiences that defy racism.
- [Musical fundraiser for Ukraine aims to bring community members together](https://freshwater-reporter.com/musical-fundraiser-for-ukraine-aims-to-bring-community-members-together/) - “Together for Ukraine” May 6 concert fundraiser at Manistee’s Ramsdell Theatre is dedicated to Ukrainian mothers and grandmothers and benefits Razom for Ukraine
- ['Big Tree' hunters could win a prize](https://freshwater-reporter.com/big-tree-hunters-could-win-a-prize/) - Big Tree hunters in Michigan could win a prize by getting outdoors and identifying big trees for ReLeaf Michigan which works with communities to plant trees.
- [‘Legacy trees’ protected at Arcadia Dunes for future generations](https://freshwater-reporter.com/legacy-trees-protected-at-arcadia-dunes-for-future-generations/) - Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy treats ash trees affected by Emerald Ash Borer so future generations have access to mature ash trees at Arcadia Dunes.
- [Sunny St. John's Wort](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sunny-st-johns-wort/) - St. John's wort grows abundantly in Michigan and has showy yellow flowers that stain fingers purple when crushed. It is an herbal remedy for depression.
- [Golden Waterfalls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/golden-waterfalls/) - Early goldenrod, shown here in the writer's backyard. Photo by Jennifer Devine, MI Backyard Note: Safely foraging wild plants for home use takes practice. Always go with an experienced forager to learn how to identify plants in the field. By Jennifer Devine The first of its kind to bloom, early goldenrod (Solidago juncea) is a
- [Smooth Yellow False Foxglove](https://freshwater-reporter.com/smooth-yellow-false-foxglove/) - Blossom of smooth yellow false foxglove. Photo by Jennifer Devine. MI BACKYARD: I spy with my little eye... By Jennifer Devine A foot off the beaten path in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, I ran into the native perennial smooth yellow false foxglove (Aureolaria flava). We will call it SYFF from here on. Nestled under white
- [Bringing back bartering](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bringing-back-bartering/) - Barter Fair at Green Lake Township Memorial Park, Interlochen, offers an afternoon of swapping, trading and upcycling that aims to strengthen community bonds.
- [Life-long lessons from a teacher](https://freshwater-reporter.com/life-long-lessons-from-a-teacher/) - Remembering a high school teacher's belief in a young student, allowing the latter to join a forensics debate club and how the experience shaped her character.
- [Feeling spring feverish? Volunteers needed to plant trees](https://freshwater-reporter.com/feeling-spring-feverish-volunteers-needed-to-plant-trees/) - From staff reports More than 1,500 native tree seedlings are slated to be planted in Manistee, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Antrim counties during the week surrounding Earth Day, and the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy seeks volunteers to help with this popular annual event. “This is a perennial favorite activity that helps to restore
- [Area Earth Day events planned this week](https://freshwater-reporter.com/area-earth-day-events-planned-april-22-23/) - File photo courtesy of AFFEW, A Few Friends for the Environment of the World, Ludington. From staff reports Invest In Our Planet (And Build a Prosperous and Equitable Future) is this year’s Earth Day theme, and two area nonprofits plan to observe the event with activities held April 22-23. Earth Day celebrations kick off in
- [The buzz about beekeeping](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-buzz-about-beekeeping/) - Beekeeper Anne Maurer, from Victory Apiary, inspects one of the hives during a seminar held at their operation. Photo by Carmelitta Tiffany. By Carmelitta Tiffany I’ve always had a special place in my heart and on my palate for honey. In addition to being better for you than sugar, honey contains properties that help curb
- [Learn to plant a pollinator garden](https://freshwater-reporter.com/learn-to-plant-a-pollinator-garden/) - Honey bee on flower. Photo by Jonas Thoren, Pixabay. By Carmelitta Tiffany The Scottville Beekeepers of Mason County will discuss pollinator gardens at 6:30 p.m., April 28, at Scottville United Methodist Church, 114 W. State Street. For those, like myself, who prefer to leave beekeeping to the experts, planting a pollinator garden is a fun
- [April showers include the Lyrid meteor shower](https://freshwater-reporter.com/april-showers-include-the-lyrid-meteor-shower/) - A “shooting star” (meteor) is captured hitting Earth's atmosphere. Photo: Pixabay By Brooke Edwards If spring decides to stay, and the clouds clear, we are in for a cosmic show the next 10 nights. The Lyrid meteor shower takes place April 14-30. Make sure to head out before dawn, and pack your patience, or you
- [Smiles and miles of sandy ORV trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/smiles-and-miles-of-sandy-trails/) - Miles of sandy ORV trails await visitors at campgrounds like Best Bear in Irons and Whiskey Creek in Custer, both near Manistee National Forest ORV trails.
- [Onekama wall of art 'going to the dogs'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/onekama-going-to-the-dogs/) - Onekama community art wall is 'going to the dogs' in 2022 with dog-themed, artfully repurposed objects by area residents for display in the community garden.
- [Sap's a-runnin'](https://freshwater-reporter.com/saps-a-runnin/) - Signs of spring are returning at area sugar bushes, including BrixStone Farms near Bear Lake. The farm’s sap is running, filling jars with sweet maple goodness.
- [Happy sightings during Manistee's 2021 Christmas Bird Count](https://freshwater-reporter.com/happy-sightings-during-manistees-2021-christmas-bird-count/) - White-winged Crossbill. Photo by Linda Scribner. By Brian Allen For the first time ever, the Manistee Christmas Bird Count had to be rescheduled. The forecast for the Dec. 16, 2021, event called for west winds of 30-40 mph gusting up to 70 mph! The night before, I received phone calls and text messages from many
- [Elegy For A Snowman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/elegy-for-a-snowman/) - Elegy For A Snowman, a poem by Louisa Loveridge Gallas about a snowman in Arcadia who expired before his time. Rain melts the rest of our packed and piled snow.
- [Her Story](https://freshwater-reporter.com/her-story/) - Women still face discrimination in the workplace, healthcare, insurance costs, the military and criminal (violence) cases. Nevertheless, she persists.
- [My annual St. Patrick's Day toast](https://freshwater-reporter.com/my-annual-st-patricks-day-toast/) - During the Vietnam War, a soldier and his armed forces buddies visit Washington, D.C. for a St. Patrick's Day celebration before being posted to 'Nam.
- [Find your winter warm-up in Manistee and Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/find-your-winter-warm-up-in-manistee-and-ludington/) - Manistee and Ludington offer several sources for specialty coffee and tea, from drive-thru options to sit down spaces not unlike your living room.
- [Pine Knob Music Theatre is back!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/pine-knob-music-theatre-is-back/) - Pine Knob Music Theatre reclaims its name for 50th anniversary of metro Detroit venue and delights concertgoers and musicians
- [Comic books are COOL!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/comic-books-are-cool/) - Spiderman made his second annual appearance at Rebel’s Sanctuary and handed out free comic books to passersby in downtown Manistee. From left: Randy Hiltz, Spiderman and Greg Hiltz. By Greg Gielczyk Comic books can introduce a young person to reading, long before they tackle more challenging literature. For Greg Hiltz, of Rebel’s Sanctuary in Manistee,
- [My Old Friend](https://freshwater-reporter.com/my-old-friend/) - Story by Kevin Howell Pandemics are not fun, but they can be useful to get reacquainted with an old friend. For nearly 50 years, I’ve been in a love/lazy relationship with a good friend of mine, a guitar my father bought me for Christmas back in 1973. When I’m in lazy mode and my guitar,
- [Proposed multi-use trail plan connects communities](https://freshwater-reporter.com/proposed-multi-use-trail-plan-connects-communities/) - This SmarTrails map shows how communities will be interconnected. Courtesy photo. By Stewart A. McFerran In August 2019, Freshwater Reporter spoke to two Manistee County Planning Department employees at their booth during the Copemish Heritage Festival. The pair’s enthusiasm for a SMARTrails project, which would create new trails inside the county and connect them with
- [The Thompsonville Trail Connection](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-thompsonville-trail-connection-2/) - This red caboose, at the Thompsonville trailhead of the Betsie Valley Trail, is across the street from Geno’s Sports Bar and Grill. Story and photo by Stewart A. McFerran Just north of the Manistee County line is the village of Thompsonville. Years ago, the village was a hub of activity. Several railroad lines met there.
- [The Magic of the Last Saturday in April](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-magic-of-the-last-saturday-in-april/) - The author fishing his favorite Double Eddy Hole. Courtesy photo. By Milton F. Whitmore It’s only a day on the calendar. It varies from year to year. No clue is offered as to any wizardry or magical properties, yet The Last Saturday in April conjures up a feast of telling tales, of an almost mystical
- [Wallace Humphrey: Last of the Glovers Lake Fire Spotters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/wallace-humphrey-last-of-the-glovers-lake-fire-spotters/) - Wallace Humphrey, using the Osborne Fire Finder device while manning the Glovers Lake Fire Tower, about 1950. Courtesy photo. By Milton F. Whitmore Northern Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, wooded as they have always been -- except following the timber era in the state -- have been under the threat of forest fires for
- [From Turnersport to Pierport and beyond](https://freshwater-reporter.com/from-turnersport-to-pierport-and-beyond/) - Train on Hopkins Pier, Pierport, Mich. Photo courtesy of Historical Arcadia, Michigan. By Milton F. Whitmore Today’s Pierport is a rather interesting little niche on the Lake Michigan coastline, about 15 miles north of the city of Manistee. Between Onekama and Arcadia, two other coastal villages in Manistee County, Pierport’s summer cottages and year-round homes
- [Planetary trio: Here’s lookin’ at June](https://freshwater-reporter.com/planetary-trio-heres-lookin-at-june/) - This image of Venus (the bright light above Earth) was captured from the International Space Station by JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui in December 2015. Photo credit: NASA/JAXA By Brooke Edwards With warmer evenings, now is the perfect time to head outside and observe the beauty of the night sky. In June, three planets will stand out
- [That’s the Spirit: In the Weeds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/thats-the-spirit-in-the-weeds/) - COVID Juice. Photo by Nathan Dumlao, Unsplash. By Chelsea White In the service industry, there will always come a moment when you have too many guests, too many drinks to make, too much food to run. Table one needs more ketchup, table two was just seated and needs to be greeted and have waters dropped
- [‘Sit’ and ‘Stay’ at the Yellow Dog Café](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sit-and-stay-at-the-yellow-dog-cafe/) - Yellow Dog Café owner, baker and head barista Bonnie McPhedran is the third generation of her family involved in food service. Photo by Pat Stinson. By Nikki Schneider In a past life, while living in Chicago and “stuck” working in Corporate America, I befriended another misplaced soul. Who would guess that 24 years later we would
- [Up One Day, Down the Next](https://freshwater-reporter.com/up-one-day-down-the-next/) - Sawmills in Michigan's Northern Lower Peninsula
- [Planting seeds of hope at Z&N Farm](https://freshwater-reporter.com/planting-seeds-of-hope-at-zn-farm/) - “I want summer now,” said Freshwater Reporter contributor Nikki Schneider, when asked what to name her story. We think it’s the best description of this farmstand photo, taken by Z&N Farm co-owner Nicole Mezeske. By Nikki Schneider I was born in suburban Chicago and spent most of my life as a city girl. Growing up,
- [Arbor Day’s Manistee connection](https://freshwater-reporter.com/arbor-days-manistee-connection/) - Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois. Courtesy photo. By P.G. Misty Sheehan (Editor's note: This story originally appeared in Freshwater Reporter, April/May 2020 issue.) Arbor Day, observed on the last Friday in April, was founded in 1872 by J. Sterling Morton (1832-1902) at his Nebraska farm named Arbor Lodge. The farm was known as “160 acres of
- [Any port in a storm: What about Arcadia Harbor?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/any-port-in-a-storm-what-about-arcadia-harbor/) - Dredging Arcadia Harbor, June 21, 2019. Photo by Stewart A. McFerran. By Stewart A. McFerran “Any port in a storm” refers to the desperation of captains of vessels that are being buffeted by wind and waves. When in danger, they seek to enter any port or channel that offers shelter. When the 19th-century schooner Minnehaha
- [Life on the Moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/life-on-the-moon/) - Brooke Edwards, in her EVA gear, stands in front of the door to the simulated airlock. Note the famous Magritte image on the right. Photo courtesy of HI-SEAS. By BROOKE EDWARDS If you had told me a year ago that life would take me to Big Island, Hawai’i, where I would find myself living 8,000-plus
- [Fun in a Bun](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fun-in-a-bun/) - Mason County and Manistee County restaurant burgers
- [Have You Been Hearing A Barred Owl?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/have-you-been-hearing-a-barred-owl/) - Barred Owls in Northern Michigan
- [IN with the OLD, OUT with the NEW](https://freshwater-reporter.com/in-with-the-old-out-with-the-new/) - Patina offers repurposed household items Millennials use to home decorate
- [Lending a hand: Restaurant owners help each other during crisis](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lending-a-hand-restaurant-owners-help-each-other-during-crisis/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran I asked Tammy Grant, owner of the Bear Claw Café in Copemish, if I could take her picture. “Mask on? Or mask off?” she replied. Knowing that mask mandates do not work in the State of Michigan, I indicated that it was up to her. She coyly suggested,
- [Wintertime at Kaleva Tavern](https://freshwater-reporter.com/wintertime-at-kaleva-tavern/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran Editor’s note: This story is updated from the original version published in early February 2021. When the Kaleva Tavern opened in the 1930s, patrons leaving the bar could walk across the street to the train station, board a passenger train and ride home. The train station is still
- [Results of Manistee 2020 Christmas Bird Count](https://freshwater-reporter.com/results-of-manistee-2020-christmas-bird-count/) - By Brian Allen This is the 34th year that I have been the compiler of the Manistee Christmas Bird Count. The CBC is one of the oldest scientific bird surveys that attempt to determine the populations of our local winter birds and any trends for their decrease or increase. In the early morning before the
- [Falling Water, Shining Sun](https://freshwater-reporter.com/falling-water-shining-sun/) - By Stewart A. McFerran Both falling water and shining sun produce power. To compare these two ways of generating electricity, consider Hodenpyl Dam in Mesick and CBS Solar, a business in nearby Copemish. Hodenpyl Dam was built on the Manistee River in 1925. The power it produces fluctuates with the seasons and the level of
- [That's the Spirit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/2020-86d/) - 2020: 86'd By Chelsea White If you’ve ever worked in the service industry, odds are you’ve heard or used the term “86.” It’s a phrase almost as old as the profession itself, meaning that the supply of an item is exhausted. (Merriam-Webster supplies this definition). For example: “86 spaghetti!” This is usually acknowledged by a
- [That’s the Spirit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/thats-the-spirit/) - Finding Balance By Chelsea White Editor’s note: “That’s the Spirit” is a new column by bartender Chelsea White, who infuses her drinks and her writing with wisdom that comes from practical experience and life’s lessons. When you’re creating a cocktail, the key concept you need to cling to is “balance.” Too sweet, too acidic, too
- [Fall into Spring](https://freshwater-reporter.com/fall-into-spring/) - Harry M. Berg and "Rose," July 1977. Photo by Gordon Berg. By Gordon Berg Love is often described in spring-like terms: budding, blossoming, blissful. These expressions of renewal are often associated with young people, who may be feeling these emotions for the first time. Sadly, at the other end of the age spectrum, we often
- [Sculpture Trail Views, Backroads](https://freshwater-reporter.com/sculpture-trail-views-backroads/) - By Kevin Howell Winds were whipping and Lake Michigan waters were predicted to produce sizable waves on a recent fall Friday. My navigator Jean and I decided it was a great time to take a ride to Ludington and drive north along Lakeshore Drive to catch the action. “Let’s go check out the lake; waves
- [A Jolly Time at Jolly Plate](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-jolly-time-at-jolly-plate/) - By Kevin Howell Kim Babcock started working in her grandparents’ truck-stop diner in Hastings, Michigan, when she was 13 years old. After moving to the Ludington area and gaining hospitality experience at a local hospital, she has finally made a wish come true. Babcock is the owner of her own restaurant, The Jolly Plate, on
- [Long-awaited milestones in space](https://freshwater-reporter.com/long-awaited-milestones-in-space/) - By Brooke Edwards During this coldest season of the year, with the sun and stars hidden behind clouds for what seems like weeks, it is a great time to investigate all the spectacular events coming soon in the world of space exploration. 2021 promises to be a memorable year. Current exploration extended The year began
- [Patches of the Past: Following the Barn Quilt Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/patches-of-the-past-following-the-barn-quilt-trail/) - By Kevin Howell In the last issue, I wrote about the discoveries my favorite navigator Jean and I made on our trek of the Mason County Cultural Heritage Trails, beginning with a tour of the area’s rich maritime history. This time around, we randomly chose the second of the six heritage trails to follow and
- [To the Space Station and Beyond](https://freshwater-reporter.com/to-the-space-station-and-beyond/) - By Brooke Edwards On Sunday, August 2, space enthusiasts watched and waited for the splashdown of two American NASA astronauts. That morning the two “Space Dads” were awakened by a call from their sons telling them to hurry home. After numerous hours of anticipation, Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley, along with (Zero G indicator) toy
- [Grayling Update](https://freshwater-reporter.com/grayling-update/) - By STEWART A. MCFERRAN Dan Sampson cares for Arctic grayling at the Oden State Fish Hatchery near Alanson. The grayling once thrived in Michigan streams but have been missing from the state’s fresh waters for nearly 100 years. The fish that traveled by plane from Alaska will be in quarantine until September. Sampson, a MDNR
- [Lower Woodcock Lake: Summer and Winter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lower-woodcock-lake-summer-and-winter/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran The Lower Woodcock Lake trail, southwest of Lake Ann in Benzie County, will open to the public Aug. 26, according to Jennifer Jay, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy Communication Specialist. The property and the lake are unique for their pristine condition, with no invasive plants in the lake
- [Navigating the Maritime Heritage Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/navigating-the-maritime-heritage-trail/) - By KEVIN HOWELL with JEAN HOWELL Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of stories about Mason County’s Cultural Heritage Trails. After years of visiting Michigan, my wife Jean and I moved here from Indiana a little more than a year ago, because we love the scenery and the “big” lakeshore. But, like
- [The Thompsonville Trail Connection](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-thompsonville-trail-connection/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran Just north of the Manistee County line is the village of Thompsonville. Years ago, the village was a hub of activity. Several railroad lines met there, and the Betsie River was dammed to generate power for the residents. Logs and freight passed through from destinations near and far.
- [Michigan Trails Week, Sept. 20-27](https://freshwater-reporter.com/michigan-trails-week-sept-20-27-2/) - From staff reports According to the MDNR, Michigan has 13,000 miles of state-managed trails, thousands of miles of local, county and federally managed trails, and more rail-trail miles than any other U.S. state. The 2020 Michigan Trails Challenge offers everyone a chance to walk, run, ride, hike, bike or paddle during Michigan Trails Weeks, Sept.
- [Lights! Camera! BLT!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/lights-camera-blt/) - By Mark Videan Maybe you are a green-thumbed garden wizard with decades of veggie growing experience. Or perhaps COVID-19 gave you the incentive to try planting for the first time this year. Whatever your gardening background, now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labors. Some of the most wonderful of these are
- [Trout Madness at the Homestead Dam site](https://freshwater-reporter.com/trout-madness-at-the-homestead-dam-site/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran Trout Madness has a history of infecting the minds of Michigan anglers. Robert Traver wrote about it in a novel by that name. Whether a dry fly is tied to the end of a $1,500 fly rod by a wine sipper, or a worm is hooked to a
- [Free passport to Manistee’s past](https://freshwater-reporter.com/free-passport-to-manistees-past/) - By P.G. Misty Sheehan It’s a beautiful day. Fluffy cumulus clouds are floating by in a bright-blue sky. The weather is perfect. I breathe in its freshness and want to go somewhere outside. I google and find self-guided historic tours posted on visitmanisteecounty.com. One-quarter of the 100 historic sites found in eight self-guided tours can
- [Demonic possession](https://freshwater-reporter.com/demonic-possession/) - Story and photo by Kevin Howell Homegrown pumpkins decorate the scary Halloween scene at the home of Sharon Sloan on U.S. Highway 10, just west of Walhalla. The main feature, a larger-than-life devil head and hands, once haunted an amusement park near the Pennsylvania-New York state line. Carvings of damned souls appear in the fingerprints.
- [The importance of forming a community of lake monitors](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-importance-of-forming-a-community-of-lake-monitors/) - By Stewart A. McFerran People are drawn to the water. Shoreline communities were once the center of commerce along the shore of West Michigan. Tall ships came and went at the waterfront. Product was “shipped” and received at the dock. Today, people flock to the shores of the inland lakes and stroll on docks for
- [Are We Alone?](https://freshwater-reporter.com/are-we-alone/) - By Brooke Edwards On September 14, news of the discovery of phosphine on Venus took scientists by surprise. A team of researchers, all associated with different astronomy organizations from multiple countries, made the observations using telescopes in Hawaii and Chile. Phosphine, composed of phosphorus and hydrogen, is produced in small amounts by bacteria on Earth.
- [Local shelves fill once more](https://freshwater-reporter.com/local-shelves-fill-once-more/) - By Kevin Howell Two local businesses, one shuttered, one lost in a fire, will spring back to life in Mason and Manistee counties, much to the anticipation of area shoppers. The owners of Nash Bros. Market, of Custer, hope to have the grocery store stocked and ready to open by the time this paper goes
- [Archangel cofounder weighs in on fires, climate and big trees](https://freshwater-reporter.com/archangel-cofounder-weighs-in-on-fires-climate-and-big-trees/) - Story by Stewart A. McFerran COPEMISH - David Milarch, co-founder of Archangel Ancient Tree Archive, has an opinion about the fires raging in the West. “Number one, (they’re) raising awareness,” Milarch explained, especially among California residents who he said have taken their redwoods for granted, “in spite of the fact that 95% of the old
- [Bright planets light the night sky](https://freshwater-reporter.com/bright-planets-light-the-night-sky/) - By Brooke Edwards With fall fast approaching, the days are beginning to get shorter. As we get less sunlight, we have more time to view the beauty of the night sky. Chances are there will be some clear nights in September and October to enjoy the stars, before the dreaded lake-effect cloud cover and cold
- [A ghost town, a cemetery and the spirit of the lumber barons](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-ghost-town-a-cemetery-and-the-spirit-of-the-lumber-barons/) - Story and photos by Kevin Howell Three down and three to go, and it’s back to Ludington for the fourth Mason County Cultural Trail. For the last three editions, I and my faithful navigator Jean have been riding the roads in Mason County to explore cultural trails laid out by masoncountyculture.com. From maritime heritage to
- [Janis & me](https://freshwater-reporter.com/janis-me/) - By McStellar Last month, I was standing in the well-established liquor store down the street from my place and staring at the limited wine selection. Ten minutes earlier I had realized my place was bone dry – except for a bottle of scotch, and I’m not a fan. Out the door I went, on a
- [Memories of “Jeep the Mac”](https://freshwater-reporter.com/memories-of-jeep-the-mac/) - Story and photos by Susan Hintz The day had arrived, April 26, 2019, when we and 800+ of our “closest friends” invaded St. Ignace and the Mighty Mac for the fourth annual Jeep the Mac. It was our first JTM excursion and we had been stoked since making our reservations in March. It was
- [Two Decades of Life on the ISS](https://freshwater-reporter.com/two-decades-of-life-on-the-iss/) - By Brooke Edwards On October 14, astronaut Kate Rubins launched to the International Space Station with cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Sergey Kud-Sverchkov aboard a Soyuz spacecraft. This mission is Rubin’s second space flight. Her first was in 2016, when she became the first person to successfully sequence DNA in microgravity. The launch was momentous for
- [Marilla: Remembering a close-knit community](https://freshwater-reporter.com/marilla-remembering-a-close-knit-community/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran Little did Jan Thomas know that the piece of metal that formed the edge of her flower garden was the wheel of a giant logging rig that once operated in Marilla Township. That is just one of the stories Thomas has about the Marilla community and its history.
- [Coping with change: Copemish Family Market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/coping-with-change-copemish-family-market/) - By Stewart A. McFerran If Goldilocks were asked to choose a grocery store, she would probably shop at Copemish Family Market in northern Manistee County or Honor Family Market in Benzie County. Not too small, not too large, but just right. Both markets, founded some 40 years ago by Roy and Rose Schneider, are now
- [Best advice for holiday eating](https://freshwater-reporter.com/best-advice-for-holiday-eating/) - By Milton F. Whitmore In this season of festive occasions, and the required eating that is involved, it might be a good time to ponder dietary restrictions and edicts. Arthur C. Gilroy was a 19th century English chemist/biologist who dabbled in nutritional studies. His main work, conducted at Oxford University from 1892-1902, concerned the intricacies
- [A Gift to Remember](https://freshwater-reporter.com/a-gift-to-remember/) - Editor’s note: A version of the following originally appeared in The Antrim Review. By DAVE LEIN A long time ago my father, our church’s pastor, offered a Christmas Eve sermon in which he said the greatest gift of Christmas – along with the birth of Jesus – is the gift of ourselves. For a squirming
- [Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library](https://freshwater-reporter.com/dolly-partons-imagination-library/) - From staff reports Dolly Parton is reportedly a generous soul, and a number of children living in Manistee and Mason counties are recipients of her giving spirit. Recently in the news for donating $1 million toward a COVID-19 vaccine, the country singer and songwriter has flown a bit under the radar with another project. It
- [The Moon’s Secret](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-moons-secret/) - Story and photo by Brooke Edwards Late last month, a discovery was announced that changed our perception of the Moon. After NASA built anticipation on social media around a big announcement, the agency finally revealed the news on October 26. It turns out there is water, H2O, on the sunlit surface of the Moon. The
- [Waiting for the Morning Light:  Deer Hunting](https://freshwater-reporter.com/waiting-for-the-morning-light-deer-hunting/) - By Milton F. Whitmore I’ve sat in a tree stand in mid-October and a ground blind on November 15, opening day of Michigan’s deer season, and watched with awe as the sun creeps from its resting place in the far eastern sky, shedding its aura onto the landscape. In a tree, sitting in a snug,
- [Time to kill? Get reading!](https://freshwater-reporter.com/time-to-kill-get-reading/) - We had an inkling this winter could be another long one, so we asked each of our contributing writers to recommend a book our readers might enjoy. We heard several complaints along the lines of, “How can I pick just one?” The task left some of them frozen – even before the first snowflakes flew.
- ['Simply Folk’ show host has local roots](https://freshwater-reporter.com/simply-folk-show-host-has-local-roots/) - By Ramona DeGeorgio-Venegas I had a very friendly conversation with Dan Robinson, host of Wisconsin Public Radio’s “Simply Folk” show and a former resident of Manistee County. He gladly answered my questions about his connection to Manistee, his Wisconsin move and the music he enjoys. In 1996, Robinson, a guitar player and singer, relocated with
- [Saving public access to Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/saving-public-access-to-lake-michigan/) - By Stewart A. McFerran Many shoreline communities in West Michigan feature their views of Lake Michigan, welcoming visitors from far and wide. They come to see the fresh water and to swim in it and recreate on it. However, much of the shoreline of our Great Lake is privately owned. Public access to the lake
- [The Starke Legacy and Shifting Sands](https://freshwater-reporter.com/the-starke-legacy-and-shifting-sands/) - Story and photos by Stewart A. McFerran The legacy of Henry Starke is Arcadia, the town on Lake Michigan that was once called Starkeville. He laid out the streets and built a boarding house where those building the town could stay. They cut the trees and started the blades spinning at a sawmill that stood

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- [Peter Pan Land](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/peter-pan-land/)
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- [Historic White Pine Village](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/historic-white-pine-village/)
- [Mariner’s Compass](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mariners-compass/)
- [Mason County Cultural Heritage Trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-cultural-heritage-trails/)
- [The Jam Farm](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-jam-farm/)
- [Barn Quilt Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barn-quilt-trail/)
- [Janice Shelley](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/janice-shelley/)
- [Pere Marquette Expeditions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pere-marquette-expeditions/)
- [Barn Quilts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barn-quilts/)
- [Loyal Union Sampler](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/loyal-union-sampler/)
- [Mason County Historical Society](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-historical-society/)
- [National Aviation Hall of Fame](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/national-aviation-hall-of-fame/)
- [Harriet Quimby](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/harriet-quimby/)
- [English Channel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/english-channel/)
- [Arcadia Historical Museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-historical-museum/)
- [San Francisco Chronicle](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/san-francisco-chronicle/)
- [Leslie’s Illustrated Weekly](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/leslies-illustrated-weekly/)
- [Aero Club of America](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/aero-club-of-america/)
- [Onekama Consolidated Schools](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-consolidated-schools/)
- [SpaceX](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/spacex/)
- [Bob Behnken](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bob-behnken/)
- [Crew Dragon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crew-dragon/)
- [Doug Hurley](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/doug-hurley/)
- [NASA](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa/)
- [Crew Dragon Endeavour](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crew-dragon-endeavour/)
- [Perseverance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/perseverance/)
- [Artemis](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/artemis/)
- [Space Launch System](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/space-launch-system/)
- [Orion Spacecraft](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orion-spacecraft/)
- [COVID-19](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/covid-19-2/)
- [Arcadia Dunes C.S. Mott Nature Preserve](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-dunes-c-s-mott-nature-preserve/)
- [Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia/)
- [Journal of Social Science and Medicine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/journal-of-social-science-and-medicine/)
- [Arcadia Dunes Baldy Trailhead](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-dunes-baldy-trailhead/)
- [Old Baldy Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/old-baldy-trail/)
- [book reviews](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/book-reviews/)
- [Lake Ann Pathway](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-ann-pathway/)
- [Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/grand-traverse-regional-land-conservancy/)
- [Lower Woodcock Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lower-woodcock-lake/)
- [Campaign for Generations](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/campaign-for-generations/)
- [Scarpace Lures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scarpace-lures/)
- [Tangled Tackle](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tangled-tackle/)
- [Insta-Launch](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/insta-launch/)
- [Manistee County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county/)
- [Bear Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-lake/)
- [Wee Bee Jammin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wee-bee-jammin/)
- [Captain Chuck’s II](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/captain-chucks-ii/)
- [fishing lures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fishing-lures/)
- [Scarpace Rig](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scarpace-rig/)
- [polymer lures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/polymer-lures/)
- [baited fishing lures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/baited-fishing-lures/)
- [K.J. Scarpace](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/k-j-scarpace/)
- [West Michigan fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/west-michigan-fishing/)
- [Lake Michigan fishermen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-fishermen/)
- [Lake Michigan anglers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-anglers/)
- [Lake Michigan sport fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-sport-fishing/)
- [North Breakwater Light](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/north-breakwater-light/)
- [Spirit of Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/spirit-of-ludington/)
- [Stearns Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/stearns-park/)
- [Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sable-points-lighthouse-keepers-association/)
- [Ludington Maritime Museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-maritime-museum/)
- [Pere Marquette Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pere-marquette-lake/)
- [S.S. Badger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/s-s-badger/)
- [whitetail deer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/whitetail-deer/)
- [Deer hunting](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/deer-hunting/)
- [hunting essay](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hunting-essay/)
- [hunting in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hunting-in-michigan/)
- [Michigan deer hunters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-deer-hunters/)
- [Hanukkah](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hanukkah/)
- [Baha’i](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bahai/)
- [menorah](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/menorah/)
- [holiday traditions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/holiday-traditions/)
- [Jewish holiday](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jewish-holiday/)
- [diversity](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/diversity/)
- [Native American Ghost Supper](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/native-american-ghost-supper/)
- [Christmas traditions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/christmas-traditions/)
- [Yule](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/yule/)
- [Intercalary Days](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/intercalary-days/)
- [Wicca](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wicca/)
- [Unitarian Universalists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/unitarian-universalists/)
- [Paganism](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/paganism/)
- [Hinduism](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hinduism/)
- [Kwanzaa](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kwanzaa/)
- [Ringstone](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ringstone/)
- [Islam](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/islam/)
- [Buddhism](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/buddhism/)
- [New Year’s Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/new-years-day/)
- [winter solstice](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/winter-solstice/)
- [Welcome to Replica Dodge](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/welcome-to-replica-dodge/)
- [Moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/moon/)
- [Clavius](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/clavius/)
- [SOFIA](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sofia/)
- [Manistee Star Party](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-star-party/)
- [water on the moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/water-on-the-moon/)
- [NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa-jpl-solar-system-ambassador/)
- [VIPER](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/viper/)
- [German Aerospace Center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/german-aerospace-center/)
- [Bear Claw ice cream](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-claw-ice-cream/)
- [Bear Claw Café](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-claw-cafe/)
- [homemade ice cream](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream/)
- [real mashed potatoes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/real-mashed-potatoes/)
- [hot turkey sandwich](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hot-turkey-sandwich/)
- [good coffee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/good-coffee/)
- [Michigan bears](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-bears/)
- [Michigan Idlewild Cultural Center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-idlewild-cultural-center/)
- [Idlewild Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/idlewild-lake/)
- [Michigan Baldwin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-baldwin/)
- [Michigan Idlewild](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-idlewild/)
- [Lake County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-county/)
- [Flamingo Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/flamingo-club/)
- [Mason County Cultural Trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-cultural-trails/)
- [Paradise Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/paradise-club/)
- [Phil Giles](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/phil-giles/)
- [Four Tops](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/four-tops/)
- [Louis Armstrong](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/louis-armstrong/)
- [Julian Swain](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/julian-swain/)
- [T-Bone Walker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/t-bone-walker/)
- [Jackie Wilson](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jackie-wilson/)
- [Lake County Historical Society](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-county-historical-society/)
- [Etta James](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/etta-james/)
- [Della Reese](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/della-reese/)
- [Arthur Braggs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arthur-braggs/)
- [Cab Calloway](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cab-calloway/)
- [Black Eden](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-eden/)
- [Duke Ellington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/duke-ellington/)
- [Scottville Clowns](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scottville-clowns/)
- [Green Book](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/green-book/)
- [Elk Rapids](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/elk-rapids/)
- [goodwill toward men](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/goodwill-toward-men/)
- [Christmas gift](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/christmas-gift/)
- [Kaleva](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva/)
- [serving others](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/serving-others/)
- [Imagination Library](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/imagination-library/)
- [FiveCAP](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fivecap/)
- [Good Night with Dolly](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/good-night-with-dolly/)
- [Dolly Parton](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dolly-parton/)
- [free children’s books](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/free-childrens-books/)
- [free books](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/free-books/)
- [book program](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/book-program/)
- [books for children](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/books-for-children/)
- [desserts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/desserts/)
- [holiday eating](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/holiday-eating/)
- [culinary adventures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/culinary-adventures/)
- [lipids](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lipids/)
- [holiday dieting](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/holiday-dieting/)
- [holiday satire](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/holiday-satire/)
- [Copemish grocery store](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-grocery-store/)
- [Honor Family Market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/honor-family-market/)
- [Copemish Family Market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-family-market/)
- [Copemish meat market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-meat-market/)
- [Copemish grocer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-grocer/)
- [Copemish butcher](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-butcher/)
- [homemade hickory-smoked bacon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-hickory-smoked-bacon/)
- [homemade hot dogs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-hot-dogs/)
- [homemade snack sticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-snack-sticks/)
- [Copemish grocery delivery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-grocery-delivery/)
- [smoked meats](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/smoked-meats/)
- [homemade sausage](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-sausage/)
- [fresh made bratwurst](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fresh-made-bratwurst/)
- [Copemish meats](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/copemish-meats/)
- [homemade jerky](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-jerky/)
- [pandemic shopping](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pandemic-shopping/)
- [curbside service](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/curbside-service/)
- [safe shopping](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/safe-shopping/)
- [Crystal Mountain area butcher](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-mountain-area-butcher/)
- [Thomsponville area market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thomsponville-area-market/)
- [Thompsonville area meats](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-area-meats/)
- [Crystal Mountain area grocer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-mountain-area-grocer/)
- [Thompsonville area butcher](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-area-butcher/)
- [Crystal Mountain area market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-mountain-area-market/)
- [Thompsonville area grocer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-area-grocer/)
- [guitar lessons](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/guitar-lessons/)
- [Little Rock Nine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-rock-nine/)
- [learning to play guitar](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/learning-to-play-guitar/)
- [Little Rock Crisis](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-rock-crisis/)
- [Little Rock Central High School](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-rock-central-high-school/)
- [Blackbird by The Beatles](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/blackbird-by-the-beatles/)
- [Civil Rights](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/civil-rights/)
- [school integration](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/school-integration/)
- [Little Rock Arkansas](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-rock-arkansas/)
- [civil rights movement](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/civil-rights-movement/)
- [Paul McCartney](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/paul-mccartney/)
- [The Beatles White Album](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-beatles-white-album/)
- [songs of hope](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/songs-of-hope/)
- [pandemic](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pandemic/)
- [music recital](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/music-recital/)
- [rural Michigan upbringing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/rural-michigan-upbringing/)
- [H3N2](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/h3n2/)
- [memorable Christmas gift](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/memorable-christmas-gift/)
- [fingerstyle guitar picking](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fingerstyle-guitar-picking/)
- [ice cleats](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ice-cleats/)
- [shoe chains](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/shoe-chains/)
- [snow grippers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snow-grippers/)
- [ice grippers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ice-grippers/)
- [shoe traction devices](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/shoe-traction-devices/)
- [snow cleats](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snow-cleats/)
- [Bing Crosby](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bing-crosby/)
- [Yaktrax](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/yaktrax/)
- [ice fishing gear](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ice-fishing-gear/)
- [ice grips](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ice-grips/)
- [safety gear for winter walks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/safety-gear-for-winter-walks/)
- [snow grips](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snow-grips/)
- [ice spikes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ice-spikes/)
- [Winter Wonderland](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/winter-wonderland/)
- [winter walking](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/winter-walking/)
- [Frank Sinatra](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/frank-sinatra/)
- [Tony Bennett](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tony-bennett/)
- [Rod Stewart](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/rod-stewart/)
- [Guy Lombardo Orchestra](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/guy-lombardo-orchestra/)
- [Honesdale](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/honesdale/)
- [PA](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pa/)
- [Manistee Conservation District](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-conservation-district/)
- [Mason-Lake Conservation District](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-lake-conservation-district/)
- [Ludington State Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-state-park/)
- [Benzie Conservation District](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-conservation-district/)
- [Woolly adelgid](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/woolly-adelgid/)
- [Invasive Species Network of Northwest Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/invasive-species-network-of-northwest-michigan/)
- [bartender](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bartender/)
- [spirits](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/spirits/)
- [northern Michigan bartender](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-michigan-bartender/)
- [bartending](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bartending/)
- [cocktails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cocktails/)
- [that’s the spirit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thats-the-spirit/)
- [Manhattan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manhattan/)
- [classic cocktail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/classic-cocktail/)
- [bitters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bitters/)
- [New York Sour](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/new-york-sour/)
- [simple syrup](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/simple-syrup/)
- [Whiskey Sour](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/whiskey-sour/)
- [cocktail balance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cocktail-balance/)
- [out-of-work bartender](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/out-of-work-bartender/)
- [Ludington Bay Brewing Co.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-bay-brewing-co/)
- [Tom Buchanan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tom-buchanan/)
- [West Michigan’s beer mentor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/west-michigans-beer-mentor/)
- [Corey Wentworth](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/corey-wentworth/)
- [The Beer Father](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-beer-father/)
- [Jamesport Brewing Co.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jamesport-brewing-co/)
- [B&R Services](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/br-services/)
- [Bell’s Brewery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bells-brewery/)
- [Michigan Brewers Guild](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-brewers-guild/)
- [Pat Buchanan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pat-buchanan/)
- [Founder’s Brewing Co.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/founders-brewing-co/)
- [Andy Thomas](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/andy-thomas/)
- [Ted Gedra](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ted-gedra/)
- [Larry Bell](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/larry-bell/)
- [Mike Iseringhausen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mike-iseringhausen/)
- [Starving Artist Brewing Co.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/starving-artist-brewing-co/)
- [retired brewer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/retired-brewer/)
- [Arcadia South Course](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-south-course/)
- [Northern Draught Solutions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-draught-solutions/)
- [FrankZ Restaurant](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/frankz-restaurant/)
- [Wee Bee Jammin’](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wee-bee-jammin-2/)
- [The Mitten Bar](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-mitten-bar/)
- [Right Brain Brewery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/right-brain-brewery/)
- [Stormcloud Brewing Company](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/stormcloud-brewing-company/)
- [TJ’s Pub](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tjs-pub/)
- [Dan Robinson](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dan-robinson/)
- [Wisconsin Public Radio](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wisconsin-public-radio/)
- [WPR](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wpr/)
- [Guardian Angels music ministry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/guardian-angels-music-ministry/)
- [Simply Folk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/simply-folk/)
- [music ministry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/music-ministry/)
- [St Norbert College](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/st-norbert-college/)
- [Purdue University](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/purdue-university/)
- [Shawano Wisconsin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/shawano-wisconsin/)
- [Saint Norbert](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/saint-norbert/)
- [Victoria Sleighbell Christmas](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/victoria-sleighbell-christmas/)
- [Doc Watson](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/doc-watson/)
- [Western Kentucky University](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/western-kentucky-university/)
- [The Ramsdell](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-ramsdell/)
- [First Street Beach Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/first-street-beach-manistee/)
- [Raye Zaragoza](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/raye-zaragoza/)
- [Pete Seeger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pete-seeger/)
- [John Hiatt](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/john-hiatt/)
- [The Great Lakes Spirituality Project](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-great-lakes-spirituality-project/)
- [Carrie Newcomer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/carrie-newcomer/)
- [De Pere Wisconsin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/de-pere-wisconsin/)
- [Manistee Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-michigan/)
- [Bar Lake Outlet](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bar-lake-outlet/)
- [Ludington Waterfront Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-waterfront-park/)
- [Ludington Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-michigan/)
- [Lake Michigan shoreline erosion](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-shoreline-erosion/)
- [Arcadia Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-michigan/)
- [Greg Mathieu](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/greg-mathieu/)
- [Explore the Shore](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/explore-the-shore/)
- [Dennis Bjorkquist](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dennis-bjorkquist/)
- [Alayne Speltz](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/alayne-speltz/)
- [Sunset Station Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sunset-station-arcadia/)
- [public access to Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/public-access-to-lake-michigan/)
- [Brad Hopwood](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brad-hopwood/)
- [Lake Michigan waterfront village](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-waterfront-village/)
- [Bar Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bar-lake-michigan/)
- [Henry Starke](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/henry-starke/)
- [Starkeville Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/starkeville-michigan/)
- [Arcadia Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-lake-michigan/)
- [Starke Point Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/starke-point-arcadia/)
- [Camp Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/camp-arcadia/)
- [Curt Burkhead](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/curt-burkhead/)
- [Bowens Creek Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bowens-creek-arcadia/)
- [Grebe Park Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/grebe-park-arcadia/)
- [Charles J. Starke](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/charles-j-starke/)
- [DeVos](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/devos/)
- [Arcadia Marsh Preserve](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-marsh-preserve/)
- [Trinity Lutheran Church Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/trinity-lutheran-church-arcadia/)
- [Muldavin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/muldavin/)
- [Pleasant Valley Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pleasant-valley-arcadia/)
- [Starke Point homeowners association](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/starke-point-homeowners-association/)
- [snow surfing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snow-surfing/)
- [Sherman Poppen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sherman-poppen/)
- [Burton snowboards](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/burton-snowboards/)
- [Muskegon State Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/muskegon-state-park/)
- [Jack Burton Carpenter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jack-burton-carpenter/)
- [Snurfer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snurfer/)
- [John Asmussen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/john-asmussen/)
- [Crystal Mountain Thompsonville](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-mountain-thompsonville/)
- [Brunswick Corporation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brunswick-corporation/)
- [Shaun White](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/shaun-white/)
- [Reed Minty](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/reed-minty/)
- [Ted Slater](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ted-slater/)
- [Lake Michigan dunes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-dunes/)
- [Caberfae Peaks Cadillac](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/caberfae-peaks-cadillac/)
- [Head snowboards](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/head-snowboards/)
- [Rossignol snowboards](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/rossignol-snowboards/)
- [Manistee birding](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-birding/)
- [Manistee Christmas Bird Count](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-christmas-bird-count/)
- [Lake Bluff Audubon Center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-bluff-audubon-center/)
- [Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-bluff-bird-sanctuary/)
- [Fifth Avenue Pier](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fifth-avenue-pier/)
- [snowy owl](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snowy-owl/)
- [barred owl](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barred-owl/)
- [long-tailed duck](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/long-tailed-duck/)
- [kinglet](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kinglet/)
- [winter wren](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/winter-wren/)
- [robin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/robin/)
- [Cooper's hawk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/coopers-hawk/)
- [bald eagle](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bald-eagle/)
- [black scoter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-scoter/)
- [ruffed grouse](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ruffed-grouse/)
- [pine siskins](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pine-siskins/)
- [Carolina wren](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/carolina-wren/)
- [merganser](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/merganser/)
- [herring gull](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/herring-gull/)
- [Lapland longspur](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lapland-longspur/)
- [snow bunting](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snow-bunting/)
- [American tree sparrow](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/american-tree-sparrow/)
- [IBA](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/iba/)
- [Important Bird Area](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/important-bird-area/)
- [Orchard Beach State Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orchard-beach-state-park/)
- [daily intentions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/daily-intentions/)
- [self-deprecating humor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/self-deprecating-humor/)
- [Self-love](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/self-love/)
- [no shame](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/no-shame/)
- [positive self-talk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/positive-self-talk/)
- [negative self-talk](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/negative-self-talk/)
- [no excuses](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/no-excuses/)
- [Jennifer Pastilov](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jennifer-pastilov/)
- [SHESkool](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sheskool/)
- [change your inner voice](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/change-your-inner-voice/)
- [twilight love](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/twilight-love/)
- [December love](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/december-love/)
- [December romance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/december-romance/)
- [1926 Miami Hurricane](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/1926-miami-hurricane/)
- [When I’m Sixty-Four](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/when-im-sixty-four/)
- [Chippewa Hotel Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chippewa-hotel-manistee/)
- [1950s Ford Fairlane Skyliner](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/1950s-ford-fairlane-skyliner/)
- [Old love](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/old-love/)
- [Perseverance rover](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/perseverance-rover/)
- [Insight mission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/insight-mission/)
- [Crew 2 mission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crew-2-mission/)
- [Jupiter flyby](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jupiter-flyby/)
- [Juno mission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/juno-mission/)
- [James Webb Space Telescope](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/james-webb-space-telescope/)
- [Boeing Starliner](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/boeing-starliner/)
- [Space Telescope Science Institute](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/space-telescope-science-institute/)
- [NASA space exploration](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa-space-exploration/)
- [HI-SEAS](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hi-seas/)
- [analog astronaut](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/analog-astronaut/)
- [Simulated moon mission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/simulated-moon-mission/)
- [International MoonBase Alliance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/international-moonbase-alliance/)
- [University of Hawai'i at Manoa](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/university-of-hawaii-at-manoa/)
- [U.S. Secretary of Food](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/u-s-secretary-of-food/)
- [World Central Kitchen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/world-central-kitchen/)
- [Chef José Andrés](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chef-jose-andres/)
- [U.S. Department of Agriculture](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/u-s-department-of-agriculture/)
- [farm to table](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/farm-to-table/)
- [Food and Drug Administration](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/food-and-drug-administration/)
- [Under Secretary for Food Safety](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/under-secretary-for-food-safety/)
- [food security](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/food-security/)
- [food waste](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/food-waste/)
- [FDA Food Safety Modernization Act](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fda-food-safety-modernization-act/)
- [U.S. Food Loss and Waste 2030 Champions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/u-s-food-loss-and-waste-2030-champions/)
- [snowmobile club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/snowmobile-club/)
- [Benzie Manistee Snowbirds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-manistee-snowbirds/)
- [KT’s](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kts/)
- [Kaleva Tavern](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-tavern/)
- [Benzie snowmobiling](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-snowmobiling/)
- [Manistee snowmobiling](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-snowmobiling/)
- [Friday Fish Fry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/friday-fish-fry/)
- [pizza](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pizza/)
- [Saturday buffet](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/saturday-buffet/)
- [Kaleva depot](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-depot/)
- [Kaleva train station](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-train-station/)
- [86](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/86/)
- [Ada Coleman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ada-coleman/)
- [Savoy Hotel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/savoy-hotel/)
- [bartender column](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bartender-column/)
- [Prohibition](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/prohibition/)
- [Chumley's](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chumleys/)
- [National Bartender's Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/national-bartenders-day/)
- [Hanky Panky cocktail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hanky-panky-cocktail/)
- [Charles Hawtrey](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/charles-hawtrey/)
- [Northern Michigan Bartending](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-michigan-bartending/)
- [Neighborhood bartenders](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/neighborhood-bartenders/)
- [Northern Michigan batender](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-michigan-batender/)
- [Sweet vermouth](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sweet-vermouth/)
- [Fernet-Branca](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fernet-branca/)
- [speakeasy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/speakeasy/)
- [Mammoth Gin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mammoth-gin/)
- [Doulin Rouge](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/doulin-rouge/)
- [Edith Munger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/edith-munger/)
- [Bird Lady of Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bird-lady-of-michigan/)
- [Hart Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hart-michigan/)
- [Whitehall Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/whitehall-michigan/)
- [Michigan Audubon Society](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-audubon-society/)
- [League of Women Voters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/league-of-women-voters/)
- [Michigan Federation of Women's Clubs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-federation-of-womens-clubs/)
- [Benzie Audubon Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-audubon-club/)
- [Michigan Women's Hall of Fame](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-womens-hall-of-fame/)
- [Barred Owls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barred-owls/)
- [Manistee Audubon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-audubon/)
- [Manistee State Game Area](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-state-game-area/)
- [Rose Lake Wildlife Center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/rose-lake-wildlife-center/)
- [Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pictured-rocks-national-lakeshore/)
- [Chapel Beach Munising](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chapel-beach-munising/)
- [Nordhouse Dunes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nordhouse-dunes/)
- [Lives of North American Birds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lives-of-north-american-birds/)
- [Harriet Tubman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/harriet-tubman/)
- [Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sleeping-bear-dunes-national-lakeshore/)
- [Saw-whet Owls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/saw-whet-owls/)
- [Great Horned Owls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/great-horned-owls/)
- [Screech Owls](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/screech-owls/)
- [Lake Bluff Farms](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-bluff-farms/)
- [Manistee area nature trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-area-nature-trails/)
- [Manistee County trails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-trails/)
- [Sleeping Bear Birding Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sleeping-bear-birding-trail/)
- [Gray Manor House](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/gray-manor-house/)
- [Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama/)
- [Patina](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/patina/)
- [Millennials](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/millennials/)
- [Grand Millennials](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/grand-millennials/)
- [Granny Chic](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/granny-chic/)
- [attic treasures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/attic-treasures/)
- [basement treasures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/basement-treasures/)
- [family nostalgia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/family-nostalgia/)
- [Junkin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/junkin/)
- [wicker furniture](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wicker-furniture/)
- [botanical prints](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/botanical-prints/)
- [china](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/china/)
- [China dishes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/china-dishes/)
- [repurposed household goods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/repurposed-household-goods/)
- [second-hand goods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/second-hand-goods/)
- [home redecorating](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/home-redecorating/)
- [garden goods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/garden-goods/)
- [Grand Millennial](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/grand-millennial/)
- [Upscale vintage resale shop](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/upscale-vintage-resale-shop/)
- [Onekama resale shop](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-resale-shop/)
- [Little River Band of Ottawa Indians](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-river-band-of-ottawa-indians/)
- [Margaret Chandler](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/margaret-chandler/)
- [Northern Michigan Ottawa Association](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-michigan-ottawa-association/)
- [Indian Village Manistee County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/indian-village-manistee-county/)
- [Brethren Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brethren-michigan/)
- [reaffirmation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/reaffirmation/)
- [sovereignty](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sovereignty/)
- [Ottawa](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ottawa/)
- [A History of the Little River Band](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/a-history-of-the-little-river-band/)
- [James McClurken](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/james-mcclurken/)
- [Bill 1357 signed by President William Clinton](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bill-1357-signed-by-president-william-clinton/)
- [Margaret Bailey Chandler](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/margaret-bailey-chandler/)
- [Manistee National Forest Festival](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-national-forest-festival/)
- [Thomas Chandler basketmaker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thomas-chandler-basketmaker/)
- [St Bernard Church Irons Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/st-bernard-church-irons-michigan/)
- [Indian boarding school](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/indian-boarding-school/)
- [1994 Federal Reaffirmation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/1994-federal-reaffirmation/)
- [St Urho](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/st-urho/)
- [Kaleva Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-michigan/)
- [Kaleva bake sale](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-bake-sale/)
- [Kaleva fundraiser](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-fundraiser/)
- [grasshopper cookies](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/grasshopper-cookies/)
- [Kaleva Norman Dickson Schools](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-norman-dickson-schools/)
- [Brethren Service Learning Class](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brethren-service-learning-class/)
- [Kaleva Centennial Walkway](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-centennial-walkway/)
- [Walta Street Kaleva](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/walta-street-kaleva/)
- [Kaleva Art Gallery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kaleva-art-gallery/)
- [Farmers Nightmare](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/farmers-nightmare/)
- [St Urho's Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/st-urhos-day/)
- [Wimpy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wimpy/)
- [Popeye](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/popeye/)
- [Scottville MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scottville-mi/)
- [Ludington MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-mi/)
- [Manistee MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-mi/)
- [hamburgers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hamburgers/)
- [restaurant hamburgers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/restaurant-hamburgers/)
- [bar burgers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bar-burgers/)
- [The Ville Scottville](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-ville-scottville/)
- [brioche buns](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brioche-buns/)
- [cheeseburger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cheeseburger/)
- [Mushroom Swiss Burger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mushroom-swiss-burger/)
- [Olive Burger](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/olive-burger/)
- [Riley's Rendezvous Walhalla](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/rileys-rendezvous-walhalla/)
- [Brenda's Burgers Scottville](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/brendas-burgers-scottville/)
- [The Grand Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-grand-ludington/)
- [Chopo's Northside Bar](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chopos-northside-bar/)
- [Bungalow Inn](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bungalow-inn/)
- [Redneck Yacht Club Wellston](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/redneck-yacht-club-wellston/)
- [Geno's Sports Bar and Grill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/genos-sports-bar-and-grill-2/)
- [Roy Orbison Museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/roy-orbison-museum/)
- [Wink Texas](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wink-texas/)
- [Route 66](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/route-66/)
- [Atlas Obscura](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/atlas-obscura/)
- [Airstream](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/airstream/)
- [Wally Byam](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wally-byam/)
- [Lincoln Illinois](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lincoln-illinois/)
- [American Legion Post 263 Schnitzel Fest](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/american-legion-post-263-schnitzel-fest/)
- [cure for cabin fever](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cure-for-cabin-fever/)
- [travel backroads](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/travel-backroads/)
- [Lake County Animal Shelter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-county-animal-shelter/)
- [Homeward Bound Animal Shelter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homeward-bound-animal-shelter/)
- [Repo's Rescues](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/repos-rescues/)
- [Mason County Animal Control](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-animal-control/)
- [Lakeshore Animal Friends](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lakeshore-animal-friends/)
- [Manistee beach](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-beach/)
- [Coastal Woods Vision](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/coastal-woods-vision/)
- [Manistee optometrists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-optometrists/)
- [multifocal contact lenses](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/multifocal-contact-lenses/)
- [Dr. Pamela Lynch](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dr-pamela-lynch/)
- [First Street Beach](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/first-street-beach/)
- [macular degeneration](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/macular-degeneration/)
- [choose happy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/choose-happy/)
- [self-taught guitar](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/self-taught-guitar/)
- [In Spite of Ourselves](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/in-spite-of-ourselves/)
- [John Prine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/john-prine/)
- [guitar calluses](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/guitar-calluses/)
- [Iris Dement](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/iris-dement/)
- [mason county guitarists](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-guitarists/)
- [learning ukulele](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/learning-ukulele/)
- [Mauna Loa](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mauna-loa/)
- [Big Island Hawai'i](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/big-island-hawaii/)
- [Artemis program](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/artemis-program/)
- [Science Communications Officer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/science-communications-officer/)
- [JPL Solar System Ambassador](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jpl-solar-system-ambassador/)
- [NASA/JPL](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa-jpl/)
- [NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa-jet-propulsion-laboratory/)
- [Life on the Moon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/life-on-the-moon/)
- [Arcadia Harbor](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-harbor/)
- [Portage Lake Channel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/portage-lake-channel/)
- [Veterans Memorial Marina](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/veterans-memorial-marina/)
- [Arcadia channel](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-channel/)
- [Barracuda 2007 wreck](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barracuda-2007-wreck/)
- [Minnehaha](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/minnehaha/)
- [William Alden Smith](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/william-alden-smith/)
- [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/u-s-army-corps-of-engineers/)
- [Manistee County fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-fishing/)
- [Opening day of trout fishing in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/opening-day-of-trout-fishing-in-michigan/)
- [Trout fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/trout-fishing/)
- [Last Saturday in April](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/last-saturday-in-april/)
- [Michigan trout fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-trout-fishing/)
- [Arbor Day](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arbor-day/)
- [Joy Morton](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/joy-morton/)
- [Morton Salt](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/morton-salt/)
- [Morton Arboretum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/morton-arboretum/)
- [Michigan Arbor Day Alliance](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-arbor-day-alliance/)
- [J. Sterling Morton](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/j-sterling-morton/)
- [Arbor Lodge](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arbor-lodge/)
- [Z&N Farm](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/zn-farm/)
- [Bear Lake MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-lake-mi/)
- [Zen Farm LLC](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/zen-farm-llc/)
- [Organic farming practices](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/organic-farming-practices/)
- [Yellow Dog Cafe Onekama MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/yellow-dog-cafe-onekama-mi/)
- [Iron Fish Distillery Thompsonville MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/iron-fish-distillery-thompsonville-mi/)
- [Bear Lake Food Pantry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-lake-food-pantry/)
- [heirloom tomatoes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/heirloom-tomatoes/)
- [Elberta Farmers Market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/elberta-farmers-market/)
- [pinus strobus](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pinus-strobus/)
- [eastern white pine](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/eastern-white-pine/)
- [Northern Lower Peninsula sawmills](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-lower-peninsula-sawmills/)
- [McCormick Sawmill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mccormick-sawmill/)
- [Arauco](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arauco/)
- [Housler Lumber](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/housler-lumber/)
- [Lake Ann Hardwoods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-ann-hardwoods/)
- [Fairview Sawmill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fairview-sawmill/)
- [Buskirk Sawmill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/buskirk-sawmill/)
- [Wheelers Wolf Sawmill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wheelers-wolf-sawmill/)
- [Jerome Miller Lumber Company](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jerome-miller-lumber-company/)
- [Kamps Hardwoods](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kamps-hardwoods/)
- [Onekama Middle School](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-middle-school/)
- [Casper Schneider](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/casper-schneider/)
- [Manistee County Historical Society](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-historical-society/)
- [muley saws](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/muley-saws/)
- [waterwheel mill](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/waterwheel-mill/)
- [Blessing of the Bikes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/blessing-of-the-bikes/)
- [Baldwin Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/baldwin-michigan/)
- [St Ann's Catholic Church Baldwin Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/st-anns-catholic-church-baldwin-michigan/)
- [Lake County Chamber of Commerce](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-county-chamber-of-commerce/)
- [2010 Victory Cross Country Motorcycle](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/2010-victory-cross-country-motorcycle/)
- [Duane E. Dewey Amvets Post 1988](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/duane-e-dewey-amvets-post-1988/)
- [Humphrey Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/humphrey-michigan/)
- [Osborne Fire Finder](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/osborne-fire-finder/)
- [Glovers Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/glovers-lake/)
- [Glovers Lake Fire Tower](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/glovers-lake-fire-tower/)
- [Arcadia and Betsie River Railroad](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-and-betsie-river-railroad/)
- [Michigan Fire Lookout Towers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-fire-lookout-towers/)
- [Michigan Department of Natural Resources](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-department-of-natural-resources/)
- [Michigan Conservation Department](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-conservation-department/)
- [Glovers Lake Fire Spotter](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/glovers-lake-fire-spotter/)
- [Hug a cow](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hug-a-cow/)
- [Michigan dairy farm](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-dairy-farm/)
- [Springport Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/springport-michigan/)
- [Hermansville Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hermansville-michigan/)
- [Holstein dairy cows](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/holstein-dairy-cows/)
- [Wagener apple](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/wagener-apple/)
- [Jay Stielstra](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jay-stielstra/)
- [Michigan songwriters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-songwriters/)
- [The Ark](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-ark/)
- [Manistee Waltz](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-waltz/)
- [songs about Manistee River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/songs-about-manistee-river/)
- [Ludington athlete](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ludington-athlete/)
- [Black History](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-history/)
- [Annie Award winners in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/annie-award-winners-in-michigan/)
- [Michigan legislative tribute](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-legislative-tribute/)
- [Boats Come Into Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/boats-come-into-ludington/)
- [Pere Marquette River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pere-marquette-river/)
- [Muskegon River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/muskegon-river/)
- [White River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/white-river/)
- [Washtenaw County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/washtenaw-county/)
- [Washtenaw County playwrights](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/washtenaw-county-playwrights/)
- [Washtenaw County songwriters](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/washtenaw-county-songwriters/)
- [Stockbridge Summer Market Music Series](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/stockbridge-summer-market-music-series/)
- [Judy Banker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/judy-banker/)
- [America's Best River Songs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/americas-best-river-songs/)
- [Pine River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pine-river/)
- [Linebacker From Muskegon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/linebacker-from-muskegon/)
- [Tippy Dam](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tippy-dam/)
- [Say's Phoebe](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/says-phoebe/)
- [Kingfisher](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/kingfisher/)
- [Golden-crowned Kinglets](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/golden-crowned-kinglets/)
- [Bufflehead](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bufflehead/)
- [Pileated woodpecker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pileated-woodpecker/)
- [Magoon Creek](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/magoon-creek/)
- [North Point Park Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/north-point-park-onekama/)
- [Chamberlain Road Arcadia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chamberlain-road-arcadia/)
- [Baltimore Orioles](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/baltimore-orioles/)
- [Scarlet tanagers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scarlet-tanagers/)
- [Yellow warblers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/yellow-warblers/)
- [Sawdust Hill Campground](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/sawdust-hill-campground/)
- [Great Lakes Fishery Commission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/great-lakes-fishery-commission/)
- [FishPass Traverse City](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fishpass-traverse-city/)
- [Ottaway River Grand Traverse County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ottaway-river-grand-traverse-county/)
- [Captain Boardman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/captain-boardman/)
- [Boardman River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/boardman-river/)
- [Michigan DNR FIsheries Unit](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-dnr-fisheries-unit/)
- [Little Manistee River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-manistee-river/)
- [Little Manistee River fish weir](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-manistee-river-fish-weir/)
- [Great Lakes Echo](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/great-lakes-echo/)
- [Dr. Marc Gaden](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dr-marc-gaden/)
- [Stronach Township](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/stronach-township/)
- [Scott Heintzelman](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/scott-heintzelman/)
- [lamphrey eel in the Great Lakes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lamphrey-eel-in-the-great-lakes/)
- [lamprey eel in the Little Manistee River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lamprey-eel-in-the-little-manistee-river/)
- [Organic gluten free foods cafe](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/organic-gluten-free-foods-cafe/)
- [Coffee in Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/coffee-in-onekama/)
- [Homemade baked goods in Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-baked-goods-in-onekama/)
- [Third generation baker](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/third-generation-baker/)
- [Onekama bakery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-bakery/)
- [Cafe serving Higher Grounds Coffee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cafe-serving-higher-grounds-coffee/)
- [Higher Grounds Coffee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/higher-grounds-coffee/)
- [Z&N Farm Bear Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/zn-farm-bear-lake/)
- [Benzie Area Historical Society](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-area-historical-society/)
- [Thompsonville Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-michigan/)
- [Thompsonville Diamond Crossing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-diamond-crossing/)
- [Michigan State Historic Preservation Office](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-state-historic-preservation-office/)
- [Thompsonville Junction Revitalization Committee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-junction-revitalization-committee/)
- [Red caboose in Thompsonville Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/red-caboose-in-thompsonville-michigan/)
- [Thompsonville Village Hall](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-village-hall/)
- [Pere Marquette Railroad](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pere-marquette-railroad/)
- [Ann Arbor Railroad](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ann-arbor-railroad/)
- [red Thompsonville Junction caboose](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/red-thompsonville-junction-caboose/)
- [Benzie Area Historical Museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-area-historical-museum/)
- [Benzie museum](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-museum/)
- [Benzie County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-county/)
- [Pierport Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pierport-michigan/)
- [Turnersport Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/turnersport-michigan/)
- [Lake Michigan village](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lake-michigan-village/)
- [C.W. Perry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/c-w-perry/)
- [Old Facefull](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/old-facefull/)
- [in the weeds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/in-the-weeds/)
- [The Shifty](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-shifty/)
- [The Grey Ghost Detroit Mich](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-grey-ghost-detroit-mich/)
- [service industry insights](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/service-industry-insights/)
- [Altes lager](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/altes-lager/)
- [Bulleit Bourbon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bulleit-bourbon/)
- [dock installation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dock-installation/)
- [dock installation in Northwest Lower Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dock-installation-in-northwest-lower-michigan/)
- [Cottage Pros of Beulah](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cottage-pros-of-beulah/)
- [Carie's Marine & Home Construction](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/caries-marine-home-construction/)
- [Glen Lake Property Management Group](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/glen-lake-property-management-group/)
- [dock sales in Mason County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/dock-sales-in-mason-county/)
- [lift sales in Mason County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/lift-sales-in-mason-county/)
- [Big Platte Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/big-platte-lake/)
- [Crystal Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-lake/)
- [Harper Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/harper-lake/)
- [Glen Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/glen-lake/)
- [Arcadia Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-lake/)
- [Portage Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/portage-lake/)
- [Bass Lake](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bass-lake/)
- [Pentwater Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pentwater-michigan/)
- [night sky in June](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/night-sky-in-june/)
- [Mars](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mars/)
- [Manistee stargazing event June 18](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-stargazing-event-june-18/)
- [Mars Jupiter Venus in June](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mars-jupiter-venus-in-june/)
- [International Space Station overhead](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/international-space-station-overhead/)
- [passenger pigeons in western Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/passenger-pigeons-in-western-michigan/)
- [passenger pigeons in Mason County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/passenger-pigeons-in-mason-county/)
- [passenger pigeons along Manistee River](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/passenger-pigeons-along-manistee-river/)
- [passenger pigeons in Benzie County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/passenger-pigeons-in-benzie-county/)
- [Chief Simon Pokagon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chief-simon-pokagon/)
- [Aldo Leopold](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/aldo-leopold/)
- [the last living passenger pigeon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-last-living-passenger-pigeon/)
- [Martha the passenger pigeon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/martha-the-passenger-pigeon/)
- [Cincinnati zoo](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/cincinnati-zoo/)
- [American Bird Conservancy](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/american-bird-conservancy/)
- [Crystal Lake Benzie County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/crystal-lake-benzie-county/)
- [Project Passenger Pigeon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/project-passenger-pigeon/)
- [Oden Fish Hatchery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/oden-fish-hatchery/)
- [Michigan State Historical Marker passenger pigeons](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-state-historical-marker-passenger-pigeons/)
- [Maxwelltown](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/maxwelltown/)
- [Old Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/old-manistee/)
- [Painted Lady Saloon](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/painted-lady-saloon/)
- [Hi-Way Inn](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hi-way-inn/)
- [Two Slices](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/two-slices/)
- [Manisteetown](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manisteetown/)
- [Zeggers Tavern](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/zeggers-tavern/)
- [CH Daniels Brewery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ch-daniels-brewery/)
- [Hardy Salt Company](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hardy-salt-company/)
- [G and L Bar Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/g-and-l-bar-manistee/)
- [Black cherry](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-cherry/)
- [black knot](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-knot/)
- [ascospores](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ascospores/)
- [Michigan Survival and Homesteading Guide](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-survival-and-homesteading-guide/)
- [Bear Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-lake-michigan/)
- [Northwest Lower Michigan farming](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northwest-lower-michigan-farming/)
- [Small farms in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/small-farms-in-michigan/)
- [Manistee Farmers Market](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-farmers-market/)
- [Fawn Crest Golf Course Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/fawn-crest-golf-course-manistee/)
- [Manistee Golf & Country Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-golf-country-club/)
- [Bear Lake Highlands](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-lake-highlands/)
- [Manistee National Golf & Resort](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-national-golf-resort/)
- [Arcadia Bluffs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-bluffs/)
- [The South Course at Arcadia Bluffs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/the-south-course-at-arcadia-bluffs/)
- [Manistee County golf courses](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-golf-courses/)
- [Thompsonville red caboose](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-red-caboose/)
- [Thompsonville trailhead](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-trailhead/)
- [Betsie River Thompsonville](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/betsie-river-thompsonville/)
- [SmarTrails](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/smartrails/)
- [Manistee County Planning](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-planning/)
- [Manistee County Recreation Commission](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-recreation-commission/)
- [SmarTrails in Benzie Manistee Wexford counties](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/smartrails-in-benzie-manistee-wexford-counties/)
- [Thompsonville trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/thompsonville-trail/)
- [Manistee County Community Foundation](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-community-foundation/)
- [Manistee LiveWell](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-livewell/)
- [Northern Michigan Health Coalition](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/northern-michigan-health-coalition/)
- [North Country Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/north-country-trail/)
- [Healy Lake Campground Bear Lake Mich.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/healy-lake-campground-bear-lake-mich/)
- [Big M trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/big-m-trail/)
- [Caberfae](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/caberfae/)
- [Benzie-Manistee Snowbirds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/benzie-manistee-snowbirds-2/)
- [Mitchell State Park Cadillac](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mitchell-state-park-cadillac/)
- [White Pine Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/white-pine-trail/)
- [Interlochen State Park](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/interlochen-state-park/)
- [Manistee Lake Area Non-Motorized Trail](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-lake-area-non-motorized-trail/)
- [ticks in western michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/ticks-in-western-michigan/)
- [tick prevention](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tick-prevention/)
- [tick protection](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tick-protection/)
- [tick tubes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/tick-tubes/)
- [barberry bushes and ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/barberry-bushes-and-ticks/)
- [leaf litter and ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/leaf-litter-and-ticks/)
- [opposums eat ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/opposums-eat-ticks/)
- [guinea hens and ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/guinea-hens-and-ticks/)
- [free range chickens and ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/free-range-chickens-and-ticks/)
- [essential oils and ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/essential-oils-and-ticks/)
- [pets and tick prevention](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/pets-and-tick-prevention/)
- [permethrin for ticks](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/permethrin-for-ticks/)
- [blackfin whitefish](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/blackfin-whitefish/)
- [coregonus nigripinnis](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/coregonus-nigripinnis/)
- [Manistee river commercial fishermen](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-river-commercial-fishermen/)
- [Walter Koelz](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/walter-koelz/)
- [Titus Seilheimer](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/titus-seilheimer/)
- [chubs in Lake Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/chubs-in-lake-michigan/)
- [US Geological Survey preyfish estimate](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/us-geological-survey-preyfish-estimate/)
- [Bjorkquist Bros](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bjorkquist-bros/)
- [Great Lakes sport fish introduced](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/great-lakes-sport-fish-introduced/)
- [Manistee commercial fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-commercial-fishing/)
- [Manistee commercial fishers](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-commercial-fishers/)
- [Bjorkquist Bros.](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bjorkquist-bros-2/)
- [smoked chubs](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/smoked-chubs/)
- [gill net fishing](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/gill-net-fishing/)
- [Anchored Designs Boutique](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/anchored-designs-boutique/)
- [Onekama unique retail store](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-unique-retail-store/)
- [Red Hot Best place to buy a gift](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/red-hot-best-place-to-buy-a-gift/)
- [Townline Bargain Barn](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/townline-bargain-barn/)
- [Michigan made gifts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-made-gifts/)
- [Michigan made products](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/michigan-made-products/)
- [Women's clothing Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/womens-clothing-onekama/)
- [Children's toys Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/childrens-toys-onekama/)
- [Baby items Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/baby-items-onekama/)
- [Manistee gifts](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-gifts/)
- [Manistee County boutique](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-county-boutique/)
- [Onekama Building Supply](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/onekama-building-supply/)
- [Patina Onekama MI](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/patina-onekama-mi/)
- [gin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/gin/)
- [bees knees](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bees-knees/)
- [NASA Venus missions](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasa-venus-missions/)
- [Venus probes](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/venus-probes/)
- [DAVINCI+ probe](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/davinci-probe/)
- [VERITAS](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/veritas/)
- [NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/nasas-goddard-space-flight-center/)
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- [University of Michigan DAVINCI+ probe](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/university-of-michigan-davinci-probe/)
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- [homemade ice cream in manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-manistee/)
- [homemade ice cream in benzie](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-benzie/)
- [homemade ice cream in lake county](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-lake-county/)
- [homemade ice cream in Mason County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-mason-county/)
- [homemade ice cream in Baldwin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-baldwin/)
- [homemade ice cream in Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-ludington/)
- [homemade ice cream in Benzonia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-benzonia/)
- [homemade ice cream in Copemish](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/homemade-ice-cream-in-copemish/)
- [Bear Claw Cafe Copemish](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/bear-claw-cafe-copemish/)
- [House of Flavors Ludington](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/house-of-flavors-ludington/)
- [Jones Homemade Ice Cream Baldwin](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/jones-homemade-ice-cream-baldwin/)
- [Hill Top Soda Shoppe Benzonia](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/hill-top-soda-shoppe-benzonia/)
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- [Whiskey Creek Campground](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/whiskey-creek-campground/)
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- [Manistee National Forest](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-national-forest/)
- [Huron-Manistee National Forest](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/huron-manistee-national-forest/)
- [Manistee National Forest ORV trail maps](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/manistee-national-forest-orv-trail-maps/)
- [Polaris Adventures](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/polaris-adventures/)
- [Mason County campgrounds](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/mason-county-campgrounds/)
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- [campgrounds near Manistee National Forest](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/campgrounds-near-manistee-national-forest/)
- [ORV campgrounds in Mason County](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orv-campgrounds-in-mason-county/)
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- [Polaris](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/polaris/)
- [Irons Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/irons-michigan/)
- [Custer Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/custer-michigan/)
- [ORV campgrounds in northern Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orv-campgrounds-in-northern-michigan/)
- [ORV campgrounds in western Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orv-campgrounds-in-western-michigan/)
- [ORV trails in Michigan](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/orv-trails-in-michigan/)
- [Little River Casino Resort](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-river-casino-resort/)
- [Flower Power Manistee](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/flower-power-manistee/)
- [Black Cap Nursery Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/black-cap-nursery-onekama/)
- [Blue Slipper Tavern Onekama](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/blue-slipper-tavern-onekama/)
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- [Handstand Gallery](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/handstand-gallery/)
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- [Little Eden Camp](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/little-eden-camp/)
- [Lahey's Pub](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/laheys-pub/)
- [Portage Point Resort](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/portage-point-resort/)
- [Angel Slide Portage Point](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/angel-slide-portage-point/)
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- [Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club](https://freshwater-reporter.com/tag/arcadia-bluffs-golf-club/)
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