Experience the Changing of the Seasons on Beaver Island - Pure Michigan's Emerald Isle

When it comes to natural offerings, from woods and water to flora and fauna, no place delivers the wealth of ecological resources like Beaver Island—the most remote, inhabited island in the continental United States.

Approximately 35% of the island, located about 30 miles northwest of Charlevoix in Lake Michigan, is state forest land. With over 100 miles of scenic roads, old two-track trails and beaches, it is ideal for all kinds of nature-based eco-tourism activities.

For those wishing to bring their own bikes, kayaks and other outdoor gear, the Beaver Island Boat Company offers an easy and affordable way to transport such things to the island for day trips, weekend get-aways and extended seasonal stays.

BIRD & WILDLIFE VIEWING: The newly developed Beaver Island Birding Trail (BIBT) encompasses more than 12,000 acres of state and township lands, as well as four Little Traverse Conservancy preserves (including the 28-acre Little Sandy Bay, 230-acre Miller’s Marsh, 28-acre George & Althea Petritz Preserve and the 112-acre Barney’s Lake). A vast diversity of habitats can be found around the island, and in all nearly three dozen birding sites have been identified to provide ideal viewing conditions.

Coming up September 26-27, the Beaver Island Pelagic Birding Tour with Brian Allen and Darrel Lawson provides a great potential for viewing fall migrants and perhaps even a western rarity or two. September is also an excellent time for pelagic birds (gulls, cormorants and other waterfowl) on the Great Lakes. This tour provides ample opportunities to view pelagic birds on Lake Michigan and fall migrants on the island. Participation in the tour is limited to 30 people, and reservations are required by Sept. 12 by contacting the BIBT directly at the website above.

While on the island, be on the lookout for countless butterflies, as well as reptiles and amphibians. During the fall, autumn-colored Monarch Butterflies begin their fall migration south from Canada and the Upper Peninsula, with sightings common in the early part of the season. For details on these, and other species found around the island, click here.

Beaver Island’s 56-square-miles encompass almost every type of habitat found on the mainland – forests, bogs, marshes and beaches. A federally-endangered species with a limited distribution on Beaver Island is the Michigan monkey-flower. This plant grows only on the wet banks and in the water of muddy or sandy free-flowing streams. For more on the island’s unique botany from biology professors Dr. Edward Leuck and Dr. Beth Leuck, click here.

Beaver Island is also home to the Central Michigan University Biological Field Station, offering academic classes in biology and other sciences. Faculty and students utilize the woods and waters surround the Beaver Island archipelago as their outdoor classroom for field trips, research and lectures.

BIKING: The island has several miles of paved roads and a one-mile paved non-motorized path. There are many miles of “logging” forest clay and gravel roads that are ideal for enjoying nature on an off-road type bike. The Happy Paddle offers bike rentals for those who wish to explore the nearly 20 trails that wind and crisscross around the island.

PADDLING: Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are increasingly popular activities in Paradise Bay, or along the shoreline and coves of Beaver Island. Happy Paddle offers rentals and tours for those looking to get out ON the water.

FISHING: Beaver Island’s four inland lakes provide options to catch pan fish, perch, pike and largemouth bass. The Beaver Island Wildlife Club has been working for several years to develop Lake Geneserath as a walleye fishery. Salmon fishing varies from year to year. Fishing for the long-lived slow-growing lake trout continues to improve. The area west and south of Beaver Island is a lake trout sanctuary. Smallmouth bass fishing around Garden and Hog Islands has improved in recent years, but in order to continue the positive trend, anglers are asked to practice artificial-bait catch-and-release only when fishing for smallmouth bass in the archipelago. Resident and non-resident fishing licenses can be purchased on the island, at McDonough’s Market.

HUNTING: Beaver Island is an ideal locale for hunting, specifically whitetail deer and wild turkey. Small game populations vary from year to year, but grouse and rabbit hunting are active on the island.

In 1992, now-retired DNR wildlife biologist Doug Whitcomb, with the cooperation of the Beaver Island Wildlife Club, introduced two small groups of Eastern wild turkeys to the island. Today, the burgeoning flock now consists of nearly 600 very healthy birds that reside in the island’s hardwoods and open fields. Michigan hosts two turkey hunting seasons, one in the spring (mid-April through the end of May) and one in the fall (mid-September through mid-November).

Thanks to a successful Quality Deer Management (QDM) program on Beaver Island, the population of whitetail deer continues to increase. In 2011, “three legal points on one side” antler restrictions became the law. QDM principals have created a more balanced herd, with a much improved opportunity to harvest a mature buck. The number of “doe tags” varies each year, but there are usually plenty to satisfy demand. Many land owners have also been planting food plots for years and the island offers lots of state land that is open to hunting.

Hunting licenses can be purchased on the island, at McDonough’s Market.

CAMPING: Visitors will find two established campgrounds on Beaver Island, both owned and operated by the Island Townships and open until the end of November. There are no reservations at either campground, with the primitive sites are available on a first-come, first serve basis. Both campgrounds provide pit toilets and hand pumps; there are no showers at either facility.

Saint James Township Campground is located on the north end of the Island, off Donegal Bay Road one mile outside the St. James Harbor. The campground and its 12 sites overlook Lake Michigan and Garden Island, with views of Squaw and Whiskey Islands. ($5 per night, per campsite).

Bill Wagner Peaine Township Campground is located on the east side of the Island, seven miles south of the harbor and accessible via the East Side Road. This 22-site campground is on the shore of Lake Michigan with a view of the west coast of mainland Michigan. ($10 per night, per campsite).

STAR GAZING: Given its remote locale and limited light pollution, Beaver Island offers countless spots for viewing the constellations, Northern Lights, meteor showers and other astronomical wonders. Make your way to sites in the center of the island for the best viewing. Plan around the September 28 Full Moon (with its Lunar Eclipse) or the October 27 Full Moon.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Of course, no matter the outdoor activity you take part in, there is an opportunity for capturing the experience in pictures. From sunrises and sunsets, plants, wildlife, beaches, lighthouses, historic sites, scenic trails and even the night skies, the subject matter for images are available 24/7/365.

For a complete ferry schedule and rates, call 888-446-4095, or log onto www.BIBCO.com.

For information on Beaver Island, including lodging properties, visit www.BeaverIsland.org.

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Check out these new Beaver Island videos!

Beaver Island Boat Company (:30)
Beaver Island Boat Company (2:10)

Beaver Island Birding Trail Hosts Fall Pelagic Tour — September 26-27

Fall is an ideal time for viewing migratory and pelagic (water) birds on Beaver Island—the most remote, inhabited island in the continental United States. During the Beaver Island Pelagic Birding Tour with Brian Allen and Darrel Lawson, Sept. 26-27, visitors to the island will have the opportunity to explore the newly developed Beaver Island Birding Trail (BIBT) while in search of Ring-billed and Herring Gulls, cormorants, pelicans and Caspian Terns.

The BIBT encompasses more than 12,000 acres of state and township lands, as well as four Little Traverse Conservancy preserves (including the 28-acre Little Sandy Bay, 230-acre Miller’s Marsh, 28-acre George & Althea Petritz Preserve and the 112-acre Barney’s Lake). A vast diversity of habitats can be found around the island, and in all nearly three dozen birding sites have been identified to provide ideal viewing conditions.

The tour begins Saturday morning in Charlevoix as visitors board The Emerald Isle for the 2.5-hour trip to Beaver Island. As the boat travels out through the Pine River and into Lake Michigan, birdwatchers should be able to view their first birds along the sandy shoreline.

Once on the island, visitors will have an afternoon and evening to explore the island’s natural sites including Little Sand Bay, Keebler’s Trail and Barney’s Lake. Or, by taking a self-guided tour using the Beaver Island Birding Trail map. Early Sunday morning, the group will head out to Gull Harbor for viewing before heading back to the mainland.

Participation in the Beaver Island Pelagic Birding Tour is limited to 30 people, and reservations are required by Sept. 12 by contacting the Beaver Island Birding Trail at the link above.

While there is no charge for the tour activities, each person is responsible for their own round-trip transportation (cost and reservations) aboard the Beaver Island Boat Company, and for lodging and meals while on the island. For a complete ferry schedule and rates, call 888-446-4095, or log onto www.BIBCO.com. For information on Beaver Island, including lodging properties, visit www.BeaverIsland.org.

Photo Credit: Audubon.org.

Downtown Manistee Features Beer & Boats During 4th Annual Hops & Props, September 18-20

Downtown Manistee will be brewing as the 4th Annual Hops & Props Craft Beer and Classic Boat Show returns to the riverfront, Sept. 18-20. Tickets for all festival events are on sale now online here.

“Craft Beer and Classic Boats—what’s not to love?” says Patrick Kay, director of the Manistee Main Street Downtown Development Authority. “This is the only event of its kind and what better place to do this than on the shores of Lake Michigan with Craft Beer exclusively from Michigan; the primary home and headquarters of the Century Boat Company for 60 years.”

The festival weekend kicks off on Friday with a 5-course Beer and Food Pairing at Bluefish Kitchen + Bar for $25 per person. Space is limited to 100 and reservations are required by contacting the restaurant directly at 231-887-4188.

Saturday’s festivities run throughout the day and include a Boat Show 10am-7pm along the Riverwalk. As many as 40 classic and wooden boats are expected to line the riverfront, both in and out of the water—including many Century Classic Boats, which were made for 60 years in Manistee. This year, a “Best in Show People’s Choice” award will be presented based on votes from the public.

Saturday also features Art Fair from 10am-7pm directly beside the main event space and live music from 2-7pm in front of the Marina.

The Michigan Craft Beer Tasting takes place from 2-8pm along the downtown streets. Tickets are $20 per person ($25 at the gate) and includes admission, a tasting glass and 6 tickets. Additional tickets are for purchase, at 3 for $5. Some 25 Michigan breweries are expected to participate. Several downtown restaurants will also be featuring “Michigan Beer Tap Take Over” offerings, from 6pm until Midnight.

The weekend concludes with Sunday Brunch, including a buffet, mimosa or Bloody Mary and coffee, from 9-11am at Bluefish Kitchen + Bar. Tickets are $15 per person and advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

For more information on Hops & Props, including the list of participating breweries, log onto VisitManistee.com and click on the “Events & Festivals” tab. You’re also invited to Like the Hops & Props Facebook Page.

Downtown Manistee is home to nearly 150 businesses and community resources, many overlooking the Manistee River Channel and the Riverwalk, with a Central Business District listed on the “National Register of Historic Places.”

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) of the City of Manistee is an independent, special taxing district created in 1982. The DDA encourages redevelopment and revitalization and is an active participant in economic development, marketing and the stimulation of private investment.

Petoskey Celebrates Annual Festival on the Bay — Activities Planned August 14-15

Several new activities are planned for this year’s Festival on the Bay, August 14-15, in Petoskey—nestled along the shores of Little Traverse Bay. Activities are presented by the Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce.

• BBQ on the Bay (Saturday | 3-5pm) is an amateur grilling competition open up to 10 area teams with a tasting event that is open to the public for just $5 per person.

• The Paladin Paddle Regatta (Saturday | 5pm) is a cardboard boat race meant to instill fun and excitement on the bay. No matter how fast, slow, big, small, sensible or outrageous your boat is, the first rule is that everyone have fun!

• Wine on the Water (Saturday | 5-8pm) this is your chance to sample wines from the 9 wineries of the Bay View Wine Trail. Taste tickets are just one dollar. Try award-winning wines in this special area.

• Silent Disco (Friday & Saturday | 7pm to Midnight). It’s all the rage! Step on into the tent, put on a set of headphones and enjoy great dance hits all night…all in your own little world. Those looking in will just see random dancing, because each person in the tent is listening to their own music on their own headset…inside the tent is quiet (except for the singing and laughing of those inside). On Friday night, Hits 106 KHQ DJ Jimmy Hot Keys will be broadcasting live from 7-9pm.

Live entertainment continues to be a major draw for festival-goers. Friday night, The Jelly Roll Blues Band kicks things off at 5pm, followed by the Petoskey Steel Drum Band at 7pm, Billy Strings and Don Julin at 9pm and The Cookies at 10pm. On Saturday, entertainment gets under way at 4pm with Knuckle Fuss, followed by Stereo Artifacts at 5pm, The Drift at 6pm, Mike Logan Comedy at 7pm (and again at 9:30pm), Galactic Sherpas at 7:30pm; The Accidentals at 8:3pm and Detroit Soul Revue closing out the evening from 10pm until Midnight.

Kids’ activities include a large petting zoo, Petoskey stone hunting, face painting, arts and crafts, card games, a youth fishing derby, bouncy house and more. The Children's Area will be open on Friday from 1-7pm and Saturday from 10am to 5pm Entry Fee is $2 per child, per day (adults free). Teenagers aged 14-18 will enjoy the Friday Night Sunset Band Jam, with local bands perform from 9-11pm including Multiverse and Orion Brill. On Saturday night, it’s the Club Electro Sunset Dance Party from 9-11pm with music from DJ DomNom and DJ Krave of D313Gation. The entry fee is $5 per person, each night.

Other events throughout the weekend include The Big Art Show, Chalk and Chocolate Festival, Canoe & Kayak The Bay, YMCA Color Fun Run, Waterball Competition, Vendors on the Midway and more. Find the daily schedule of events here.

Festival on the Bay continues its efforts to “Go Green by the Blue” with a commitment to environmental and conservancy issues and recycling efforts. Glass and plastic bottles, paper and plastic cups, and aluminum cans are recyclable at Festival on the Bay through an on-going partnership with Emmet County Recycling. Look for the recycling stations around the festival site and do your part to keep the waterfront and this community clean and green!

For hotels and lodging packages in the Petoskey area, click here.

The Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce is a business advocacy organization which has been working for Northern Michigan since 1920. Currently more than 780 businesses are invested as members of the organization and those members are served by a full-time staff of 4. Member businesses benefit from chamber services in the areas of business promotion, networking, advocacy, economic development, tourism promotion and community enhancement.

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Uncover Natural Wonders & Historic Treasures during a Guided Tour of America’s Emerald Isle

Discover the beauty and rich history of Beaver Island, America's Emerald Isle by taking one of two guided vehicle tours around the island. The knowledgeable and well-seasoned tour drivers will guide you through Beaver Island's beautiful scenery and intriguing history, while giving you an idea of why island life is so unique. For those not aware, Beaver Island is the most remote, inhabited island in the Great Lakes!

Tours are available Memorial Day through the Labor Day holiday, with some dates requiring an overnight stay. If taking only a day trip, you must take the first Ferry at 8:30 am in order to arrive to the Island in time to take the tour. Please refer to the ferry schedule for specific dates.

“They offer two tours of the island, by A/C bus,” says Sue from Bay City. "We took the 3-hour tour. They point out all the historical and ecological areas of the island, and tell some humorous and true (and maybe not so true…) stories of island life. You get two stops on this tour. One is at Iron Ore Bay and it is a beautiful beach. Next, right up the road, is the Beaver Island Lighthouse, which you can tour and climb to the top (50 steps or so). A good idea is to take this tour, and then either drive your own car or rent one on the island and go back to some of the points that interest you, so you can spend more time there, if desired. This is what we did.”

The 1.5 hour Standard Tour is offered most days starting at 11am and focuses on the northern end of the island and the harbor area. Tour charming St. James village including its lighthouse on Whiskey Point, shops, museums and churches. The tour then proceeds to the west side of the island to see spectacular Donegal Bay with views of High, Whiskey, Trout and Garden Islands. Finally you will pass Protar's home and tomb, learning the intriguing history of this fascinating man.

(Cost: $24 children ages 5-12; $32 for those 13 years of age and older. Tour packages, offering roundtrip passage and the tour, are $50 for children and $75 for those 13+).

The 3-hour Extended Tour begins at 1pm and includes everything encompassed by the 1 ½ tour and then continues around the entire island. Your journey to the southern tip of Beaver Island will take you through its beautiful dunes and forests and alongside several of the island's pristine inland lakes, bays and beaches. Ultimately, the tour will pause first at Iron Ore Bay for time to Beachcomb and finally visit and climb one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes—Beaver Head Lighthouse.

(Cost: $34 children ages 5-12; $42 for those 13 years of age and older. Tour packages, offering roundtrip passage and the tour, are $60 for children and $85 for those 13+).

Reservations for the tours are not necessary, but are requested as space is limited. However, sometimes there are opportunities to get on a tour the day you arrive, so be sure to ask one of the crew or stop in the ferry office to inquire about availability. To guarantee your space, please call with your preferred date and the number of passengers, or you can reserve a space on line. No deposit is required. Group tours can also be arranged, with advanced notice.

Beaver Island Boat Company has been providing the most relaxing, affordable transportation for people, pets, vehicles and freight to Beaver Island since 1984.The distance from Charlevoix to historic Beaver Island is 32 miles across Lake Michigan and takes approximately two hours. Each year the company’s two vessels, The Emerald Isle and The Beaver Islander, collectively make approximately 375 round trips to the island, travel more than 24,000 miles, transport more than 40,000 passengers, carry around 6,500 vehicles and haul approximately 10,000 tons of freight.

The Emerald Isle was designed by Timothy Graul Marine Design in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and was built in 1997 by Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc. in East Boothbay, Maine. She is 130 feet in length, 39 feet wide, and draws 8.5 feet with a top speed of 14.5 knots and maximum capacity of 293 passengers, 14 -18 vehicles depending on the size of the vehicles and this can also include a large semi-truck and up to 95 tons of freight. She is equipped with a wheel chair lift, has in excess of 150 indoor/covered seats, five unisex restrooms, one handicap accessible restroom with a baby changing table, fixed stabilizers, power outlets, wifi and food/refreshment vending machines.

The Beaver Islander was built in 1962 by Sturgeon Bay Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. out of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and was purchased new by the Beaver Island Boat Co. She is 95 feet in length, 27 feet wide and draws 8 feet with a top speed of 13.5 knots and maximum capacity of 172 passengers, 10 vehicles and 40 tons of freight. You can still ride the historic Beaver Islander on most weekends in the summer.

For a complete ferry schedule, rates and package tour details, call 888-446-4095 or log onto www.BIBCO.com.

For information on Beaver Island: www.BeaverIsland.org

Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company Opens In Time for Summer Season

Downtown Charlevoix is adding to its ever growing craft beer scene with the opening June 1 of the Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company.

Located at 111 Bridge Park Drive (in the south end of the building which houses the Keweenaw Star and Beaver Island Boat Company), the 1200-square-foot pub overlooks Round Lake and offers 60 inside seats and an additional 50 in the outside Beer Garden.

Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company is owned by Rich Bergmann, Adam Engelman, Aaron Hagen and Phil Parr – collectively known as The Round Lake Group LLC and is a sister property of the Bridge Street Tap Room, which opened in the adjacent building last summer.

The brewery’s 5-barrel system, purchased from Psycho Brew in Greenville, was fabricated entirely in Michigan from all American stainless steel.

“It was extremely important for us to make our investment in a company that is rooted in Michigan and utilizes American made stainless steel,” says Bergmann. “Equipment of this caliber helps us to brew beer of the utmost quality.”

The brewing team of Hagen, Parr, Evan Keller and Tanner DePriest regularly craft a variety of beer styles currently including Michigan Beach Blondie (5.1% ABV | 15 IBU) – a light bodied, easy drinking blonde with slight malty taste and aspects of a lager on the end; and Up North Pale Ale (5.8% ABV | 60 IBUs) – an IPA with citrus notes on the nose with a sweet hoppy backing.

The team will also work closely with breweries around the state for a series of collaboration beers. The first, Lake Charlevoix Sunrise, is a Grapefruit Saison made in collaboration with Our Brewing in Holland.

“We feel that collaboration beers are a fantastic way to build relationships between ourselves and other breweries,” says Engelman. “It also allows our brewing team to learn from some of the best in the industry.”

DePriest, who received a degree from the University of Michigan in Environmental Studies, manages the brewery’s environmental sustainability practices.

“The brewing process is very water intensive and we aim to offset this hurdle by repurposing and recycling all of our greywater” says DePriest, “Being as sustainable as possible isn’t just our passion; we feel it is our responsibility.”

The brewery also donates their spent grain to local farmers for use as feed and compost.

In addition to beer, a selection of wine and spirits is also served. The pub food menu features everything from shrimp cocktail, grilled panini sandwiches, and wraps to the area’s best tacos, quesadillas, and the unique Liquor Store Nachos.

Live entertainment will be hosted on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, from 4 to 7pm in the Beer Garden and will feature some of the area’s top musicians.

“We couldn’t be happier to be opening our doors in such a beautiful community,” says Bergmann, “Much like our sister property, the Bridge Street Tap Room, we’re very proud to add another year round destination to downtown Charlevoix.”

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Keweenaw Excursions Offers Multi-Day Lighthouse Cruises through the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes are home to hundreds of lighthouses, dating back to the mid-1800s. You’re invited to view them from the Keweenaw Star on one of five multi-day cruises this season offered by the Charlevoix-based Keweenaw Excursions.

“We feature an open air top deck and a full walk around the lower deck to provide you with an optimal view for photographic purposes,” says Jason Funkey, who owns the company with his brother, Kraig.

All trips include the cruising experience as well as continental breakfast, hot lunch and afternoon appetizers on the boat, overnight accommodations and transportation from the boat to the hotel and back each day.

To book a charter, contact the Keweenaw Excursions office at 231-237-9365.

This year’s schedule includes:

“Explore The Door” (June 22-25)
$750 per person for double occupancy | $850 per person for single occupancy

The Keweenaw Star is setting sail to explore Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula and the waters of Green Bay. Our trip departs Charlevoix on Monday June 22nd and heads due west to our first lighthouse viewing at South Fox Island. From South Fox we continue west across Lake Michigan to Rock Island Passage where we view Pottawatomie Lighthouse. Turning north from here we slip past St Martin Island Lighthouse and Poverty Island Lighthouse for a close up view and pictures. After viewing Poverty Island we head to Escanaba and the Terrace Bay Inn and Suites for our first night’s stay.

On day 2 we head south out of Escanaba past the lighthouse at Minneapolis Shoal. From Minneapolis Shoal we make our way through the famed “Deaths Door” to view the lights at Plum Island and Pilot Island before coming back in to the Bay of Green Bay for a quick view of Chambers Island Lighthouse. From Chambers Island we make our way over to Port of Marinette and head up the Menominee River to the shipyard to view any new construction at Marinette Marine. From Marinette we make our way back across Green Bay passing Peshtigo Reef Lighthouse and Sherwood Point Lighthouse headed into Sturgeon Bay for our second night’s stay at the Stone Harbor Resort.

Day 3 is a free day in Sturgeon Bay. Explore Bay Ship and Palmer Johnson shipyards, Door County Maritime Museum, the “Best of Door County” trolley tours, or just relax by the pool as we will again stay at the Stone Harbor Resort for our 3rd night.

Day 4 takes us out of the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal past the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Lighthouse and Entrance Light before making our way back across Lake Michigan to the Manitou Passage. We make our way past South and North Manitou Lighthouses, and then close approach to Grand Traverse Point Lighthouse before heading back to Charlevoix.

“Sights Of The Sunrise Side” (July 13-16)
$750 per person for double occupancy | $850 per person for single occupancy

New for 2015 we have an exciting trip to explore the sunrise side of the state. Our journey will set sail from Charlevoix, Michigan headed to our first port of call on Drummond Island. Along the way we will pass under the Mackinac Bridge and past the lighthouses at Ile Aux Galets, Gray’s Reef, White Shoal, St Helena, Round Island, Martin Reef, and Detour Reef. Our accommodations and dinner will be at the Drummond Island Resort and Conference Center.

Day 2 of this trip will take us to the port of Alpena. We will start off traveling through the island filled Potagannissing Bay and into the North Channel. Once in the North Channel we will make our way east to Lake Huron via the Mississiagi Strait. Our route takes us past the Mississagi Strait lighthouse and out to the lighthouse on Great Duck Island where we will turn and make our way back across Lake Huron to our port of Alpena for the night. Our accommodations and dinner will be at the Sanctuary Inn.

Day 3 will start out with a tour of the NOAA Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Upon completion of the tour we will board the boat and make our way up the coast to our next port of call in Cheboygan. Traveling up the coast we will pass the lights at Thunder Bay Island, Middle Island, Old Presque Isle, New Presque Isle, 40 mile point, Poe, Reef, and 14 foot Shoal. Our lodging for the evening will be at the Fleetwood Inn Hotel on the historic Cheboygan River.

Day 4 of this trip will bring us back under the Mackinac Bridge, past the lights at Mackinaw City and Waugoshance Point as we make our way back to our home port of Charlevoix. There should be plenty of opportunities for ship watchers as well as we will pass through some of the most congested waters for shipping on the Great Lakes. We also will be passing some of the busiest stone loading ports including Stoneport and Calcite as we make our way along the east coast of Michigan.

“Soo Grand Tour” (July 20-23)
$700 per person for double occupancy | $800 per person for single occupancy

Our voyage will begin in Charlevoix, Michigan on the 20th of July. We will travel north to get close up views of the lighthouses at Ile Aux Galets, Gray’s Reef, and White Shoal. Turning east we will make a close approach to St Helena Island Lighthouse before making our way under the Mackinac Bridge and down the South Channel to our port of Cheboygan for the night.

On the second day as we depart Cheboygan we will get close up views of the Cheboygan rear range light, 14 Foot Shoal, and Poe Reef lighthouses. Continuing northeast we will pass close to Spectacle Reef Lighthouse as we make our way over to the entrance of the St Mary’s River at Detour. From here we will travel through Potagannissing Bay and make our way over the north side of St Joseph’s Island. Along the way we will pass the lighthouses at Bruce Mines, West Sister Rock, Wilson Channel Ranges and Shoal Island before entering the St Mary’s River at the Middle Neebish Cut. Our day will end in Sault Ste. Marie with our lodging and dinner at the Kewadin Casino of Sault Ste Marie.

Day 3 will take us up through the locks at Sault Ste Marie to the head waters of the St Mary’s River at Ile Parisienne, where we will turn and make our way back to port at Sault Ste Marie for another night and dinner at the Kewadin Casino.

Day 4 takes us down the St Mary’s River through the famed Rock Cut and out to Lake Huron where we head west past Martin Reef Lighthouse and Waugoshance Reef Lighthouse on our way home to Charlevoix.

“3 Days 3 Great Lakes Cruises” (August 3-5; additional dates may be added)
$550 per person for double occupancy | $650 per person for single occupancy

Cruise the Northern Lake Michigan coast from Charlevoix to Sault Ste. Marie. Day One we depart Charlevoix and make our way north through Gray’s Reef passage then east through the Straits of Mackinac. Passing under the Mighty Mac, we continue east to Detour Reef Light where we will enter the St. Mary’s river. We will navigate the narrow channels and ranges to our destination of Sault Ste. Marie. With more cargo passing through the Soo Locks than the Panama and Suez canals combined there is an excellent chance we will see some of the largest ships in the world passing in close proximity to us. Upon arrival in Sault Ste. Marie, we will head for the Kewadin Casino and Hotel where we will enjoy a night of fun and entertainment.

Day 2 we board the boat after a breakfast buffet at the casino hotel. Our tour will take us up the St. Mary’s river passing through the Soo Locks where we will be raised 21 feet up to Lake Superior. Exiting the locks, we will travel north into Lake Superior to the head waters of the river at Ile Parisienne Lighthouse. At Ile Parisienne, we turn around and head back to our dock in Sault Ste. Marie where again we will stay at the casino for another night of fun and entertainment.

Day 3, the final day of our excursion, we will enjoy a breakfast buffet at the casino then board the boat for our return trip to Charlevoix. Along the way we will be passing through the famed “Rock Cut” in the St Mary’s river.

“Colors Of The St. Mary’s” (September 28-30)
$475 per person for double occupancy | $550 per person for single occupancy

Due to the unpredictability of Mother Nature’s wind this time of year we decided it would be best to depart from the protected waters of the St Mary’s River. There are several small motels along M-134 in the towns of Cedarville and Hessel which are close to Detour, or you can just spend the night in St Ignace, only 50 miles away, prior to departure.

From the State docks in Detour we will head north through the hundreds of tree filled islands of Potagannissing Bay. Colors should be spectacular as we make our way to the North Channel of Georgian Bay. Once in the North Channel we will make our way over to the Canadian town of Bruce Mines to view the lighthouse at McKay Point. From here we will head west past Sister Rock lighthouse and through the narrows of the Wilson Channel and proceed over the north side of St Joseph Island. Just past the Shoal Island lighthouse we will enter the St Mary’s river in the Middle Neebish Channel where we will proceed up bound to Sault Ste Marie. We will make our way through the locks and on to Lake Superior where we will turn and head back down the Canadian Lock and over to our dock for the evening.

Our second day will be an option day. Option 1 will be to board a bus for a color cruise to the Great Lakes Shipwreck nautical museum at Whitefish Point and Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Option 2 will be to stay and play or whatever you would like to. The casino operates a free shuttle which could bring you down to the Soo Historic Sites including the Museum Ship Valley Camp, Tower of History, or make your way over to the viewing platform at the Locks for close up views of transiting freighters. Our third day we will make our way back down the St Mary’s River with passage through the famed Rock Cut to our dock at Detour where we will disembark for home.

About the Keweenaw Star
Operating since 2000, Keweenaw Excursions is owned and operated by brothers Jason and Kraig Funkey. The company originated in Houghton, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and moved to Charlevoix in 2009. With a capacity of 130 passengers, the Keweenaw Star offers a range of cruises from mid-May through mid-October, including sunset tours, sightseeing trips and multi-day lighthouse and ship-watching cruises. The boat is also available for private charters, for events such as corporate outings, weddings, rehearsal dinners and reunions.

The Homestead Announces Administrative Reorganization; James Kuras Named VP

The Homestead is pleased to announce the appointment of James Kuras to the position of Vice President with responsibility for food and beverage, outdoor recreation, and health and wellness offerings. Kuras, who has been working at the resort since he was fourteen, holds a BA from the University of Notre Dame, where he is currently pursuing an executive MBA.

His promotion is a part of a reorganization of the resort’s management structure that is designed to place ever-increasing emphasis on service quality and guest satisfaction. “As any parent would be my wife and I are pleased to see our son advance. His youthful energy and relentless focus on service will nicely complement the decades of experience our other officers have” said the President of the resort, Bob Kuras.

“James has proven himself in nearly fifteen years of work in different parts of our business,” said Jamie Jewell, Vice President of Sales, “everyone here is delighted that he will carry forward the values that have driven our business – family and nature – long into the future.

The Homestead is Northern Michigan’s largest waterfront resort community located in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, an area voted by viewers of ABC’s Good Morning America as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”. Along with its unmatched natural setting and miles of frontage on Lake Michigan and the Crystal River, the resort offers guest pools, tennis and golf in the summer; downhill and cross country skiing in the winter; and shops, restaurants, meeting centers and the luxurious new Spa Amira throughout all four seasons.

For more information, visit www.thehomesteadresort.com or call 231.334.5100. “Like” The Homestead on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehomesteadmi and follow on Twitter at @TheHomesteadMI.

Keweenaw Excursions Celebrates 5th Anniversary in Charlevoix with October 4 Cruise

In September, 2009, brothers and captains Kraig and Jason Funkey left their hometown along the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to make a new home for themselves and their Keweenaw Star in Charlevoix. That next summer, they launched their first trip out of their new port and today, Keweenaw Excursions is proud to celebrate its 5th Anniversary in this Lake Michigan community.

A celebratory cruise is planned for Saturday, October 4 from 5-9pm. The evening will include complimentary appetizers, cash bar and music. Tickets for the anniversary cruise are just $5 per person and space is limited. Tickets are available by calling 231-237-9365.

The Keweenaw Star was originally a crew boat designed to ship crew and supplies to oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. She was commissioned in 1981 and was originally named the Atlantic Star. The boat was then converted to a cruise ship and the Funkey's (Jason, Kraig and their father, Fred) purchased her in May of 2000 in South Carolina. Renamed the Keweenaw Star, the Funkeys ran a tour company in the Houghton-Hancock area on the Keweenaw Peninsula for nearly 10 years.

Fred is trained as a diesel mechanic with a degree from Ferris State University. He began his captain’s career in his hometown area of Houghton/Hancock in the Keweenaw Peninsula. His first gig was owner/ operator of the Lighthouse Boat Cruise – the Star of Keweenaw – in Copper Harbor in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His work took him throughout the Great Lakes region, including running the Voyager II out to Isle Royale and the Island Princess for the Apostle Island Tours. Over his nearly 50 year career he’s also captained oil rig boats in the Gulf of Mexico

Kraig and Jason both began working alongside their dad aboard the Star of Keweenaw and Isle Royale Queen as young boys and teenagers. Both brothers also earned their original captain’s licenses in Duluth, MN. Kraig also honed his skills aboard the Voyager II, captained a charter fishing boat in Copper Harbor and worked in the Gulf of Mexico and has a 100-ton master captain’s license. Jason later went to the Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City to obtain an unlimited tonnage mates license with a first class pilot’s endorsement.

Upcoming Events:

• September 24 (6-8pm) Historic Sunset Cruise
• September 27-29 3-Day Fall Color Cruise
• October 4 (5-9pm) 5th Anniversary Cruise
• October 11 (3-5pm) Historic Fall Color Cruise

2015 Excursions:

• June 22-25 Explore the Door (Door County Wisconsin)
• July 13-16 Lights of the Sunrise Side
• July 20-23 Soo Grand Tour
• August 3-4 3 Days, 3 Great Lakes

With a capacity of 130 passengers, the Keweenaw Star offers a range of cruises from mid-May through mid-October, including sunset tours, sightseeing trips and multi-day lighthouse and ship-watching cruises. The boat is also available for private charters, for events such as corporate outings, weddings, rehearsal dinners and reunions.

KEWEENAW EXCURSIONS
109 Bridge Park Drive
Charlevoix, MI 49720

231-237-9365
KeweenawExcursions@gmail.com
www.KeweenawExcursions.com
www.facebook.com/KeweenawExcursions
www.twitter.com/KeweenawStar

Frankfort Beer Week Launches in Benzie County

The new Frankfort Beer Week will be held in Frankfort Michigan from October 6-11, celebrating all that is great about Michigan Craft Beer and the excellent “foodie” scene evolving in the quaint harbor town on Lake Michigan.

Over a dozen establishments are participating in the inaugural event, bringing a variety of signature menu items made specifically for the week, combined with beer dinners, tastings, baked goods and other specialties incorporating Michigan Craft Beer as an ingredient.

On Monday, October 6, Stormcloud Brewing Company will kick off the week by tapping their annual Harvest Tripel — a Belgian-Style Tripel made with freshly-picked Glacier hops from Empire Hops Farm. They’ll cap off the week on Saturday, October 11 with a hybrid Belgian/German Oktoberfest batch, brewed specifically for the occasion.

On Tuesday, October 7, New Holland Brewing Company will hold a beer dinner at Coho Café. Then, on Thursday, October 9, the historic Garden Theater will screen “The Michigan Beer Film” — a feature-length documentary centered on the exploding craft beer industry in Michigan,

In addition to area restaurants turning up their creative culinary skills, the renowned Paul Starr from "I’m a Beer Hound" will be in Frankfort to provide three nights of educational beer tastings paired with Michigan-made Mindo Chocolate, Hilltop Ice Cream made in Benzonia and locally-smoked bacon.

A homebrew competition featuring fall-inspired beer is also slated for the week, with the winner of the contest invited to bring their skills to Stormcloud to brew their beer to be put on tap in the pub for all to enjoy.

The Frankfort Bookstore is also getting in the game, featuring beer books and oddities.

Those looking to spend the night in Frankfort can take advantage of the Frankfort Beer Week package at Harbor Lights Resort, where guests will receive a welcome amenity upon arrival geared just for the occasion which includes a growler fill at Stormcloud.

Frankfort Beer Week bridges two weekends of Fall Festival Activities in Benzie County. It's the perfect time to be in Frankfort.

Information for the weeklong event including all the participating organizations can be found at www.frankfortbeerweek.com and on Facebook.

Keweenaw Excursions Offers Fall History Cruises

Join David Miles of the Charlevoix Historical Society for a pair of narrated historical cruises aboard the Keweenaw Star on Wednesday, September 24 (6-8pm) and Saturday, October 11 (3-5pm). The 2-hour trips cost $25 per person, with a portion from every ticket being donated to the CHS. To purchase tickets, call 1-231-237-9365.

The September 24 Sunset Cruise covers the west and south shores of Round Lake, heading out into Lake Charlevoix, and then turning south toward the Ferry Beach area, turning north to Oyster Bay, Pine Point, Raspberry Bay and the train depot area, before heading back toward Round Lake. From there, the Star travels along the northern shore of Round Lake before heading out into Lake Michigan with hopes of catching a sunset, then along the shore toward the cement plant and finally back into the harbor just as darkness is falling.

The October 11 Fall Color Cruise also travels through Round Lake and then into Lake Charlevoix toward Ferry Beach. From there, the trip continues into the South Arm of the lake all the way past the Sequanota Resort, Ironton and the Ironton Ferry, and down to Holy Island. The boat then turns around and heads up to Oyster Bay and Pine Point before returning to Round Lake.

Both tours offer lively narration and commentary along the way, providing interesting tidbits of local history about this harbor town – which welcomed its first permanent settlers in 1854.

According to Miles, the channels that connected the inland lakes to Lake Michigan were cut in 1869 and by 1897, Charlevoix was seeing more maritime tonnage pass through its waters than any other port on the east side of Lake Michigan, outside of Chicago. By the early 20th century, the Charlevoix area was also the premier resort destination in this region.

“At one time, the town had an importance far outside its size regarding its economic importance to both this area and the whole state,” Miles says. “It has a history, that, as I term it, simply doesn't quit. Its history is so vast that a few minutes cannot even begin to encompass it.”

Established in 1879, the Charlevoix Historical Society was a dynamic part of the community for many years, but sadly faded after World War II. It was resurrected in 1972 and in 1978 the society was given the Harsha House—an 1891 Queen Anne residence downtown that now houses its offices and museum. Today, the CHS is once again an organization interactive with segments of the community.

Miles has been an active member of the Charlevoix Historical Society since 1997 and in 2002 he was named co-director of the Harsha House museum. He’s produced seven books and two full-length DVDs on various aspects of Charlevoix’s history, has given many illustrated lectures and presentations both local and in neighboring towns, and has helped to mount large exhibits about the area’s history.

Operating since 2000, Keweenaw Excursions is owned and operated by brothers Jason and Kraig Funkey. The company originated in Houghton, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and moved to Charlevoix in 2009 – this year celebrating its 5th season. With a capacity of 130 passengers, the Keweenaw Star offers a range of cruises from mid-May through mid-October, including sunset tours, sightseeing trips and multi-day lighthouse and ship-watching cruises. The boat is also available for private charters, for events such as corporate outings, weddings, rehearsal dinners and reunions.

Bridge Street Tap Room Brings Michigan-Centric Beer & Food Menu to Downtown Charlevoix

The Lake Michigan port town of Charlevoix welcomes the Bridge Street Tap Room, a Michigan-centric craft beverage haven overlooking beautiful Round Lake, Bridge Park and the town’s famed drawbridge.

Opened in mid-June, Bridge Street Tap Room is owned by Rich Bergmann, Adam Engelman, Aaron Hagen and Phil Parr – collectively known as The Round Lake Group LLC.

“The Bridge Street Tap room takes tremendous pride in the State of Michigan and strives to be as Michigan-centric as possible,” says partner and Director of Marketing Adam Engelman. “We’re very excited to share our passion for local with our community and its year-round visitors.”

The roughly 1000 square-foot pub features 32 taps filled exclusively with Michigan products – typically, 27 craft beers, two hard ciders, two selections from Northwoods Soda and Syrup and a sparkling white wine made by M. Lawrence Winery.

The Tap Room offers an exclusively Michigan wine portfolio featuring some of the best wines from the state, while a limited liquor selection features several of the state’s craft distilleries. They also offer a specialty cocktail menu that feature recipes utilizing Michigan spirits, craft beers and local fruits or products.

The pub menu also draws local inspiration, using many regional growers and providers, including a Michigan meat and cheese platter, house-made salmon pate, local whitefish sausage, Oleson’s cherry brats, Ebel’s brisket, Charlie’s Chips and much more.

The attention to local goes beyond just the food and beverage menu at the Bridge Street Tap Room. The chairs and barstools were manufactured by the Grand Rapids Chair Company, while the bar and tables were handcrafted and built by master woodworkers in Olivet, using local hardwoods. The walls are adorned with pictures sourced from the Charlevoix Historical Society. Even the logo wear and glassware, available for purchase, were designed and printed locally.

Bridge Street Tap Room located at 202 Bridge Street in downtown Charlevoix, on the back side of the block overlooking Round Lake. It is open 7 days a week, from 11am to 11pm. Let the Bridge Street Tap Room deliver an exceptional all-Michigan experience.

Manistee County Introduces 3 Ways to Explore Its Newly Updated Historic Buildings Tour

Manistee County boasts one of the finest collections of historic buildings in the nation, according to the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office. More than 80 of these sites have been cataloged—with histories, addresses and photographs—in a new publication released this month.

Four self-guided routes take visitors through the historic central business district of Downtown Manistee, East and West historic home district, as well as destination sights throughout the county. Each tour starts and ends at one of the Historic Museums, where you can stop in and the experienced staff can assist you in learning more about any one of the great historic sites you have explored.

These detailed routes are outlined in a 52-page printed pocket-sized directory, available for free at the Visitor’s Bureau office. It can also be requested by calling 877.626.4783 or by requesting it online at VisitManisteeCounty.com, while supplies last (3,000 copies were printed).

A digital version of the publication can be downloaded in a flip-book format by clicking here.

The Historic Building Tour routes can also be accessed remotely, via the Manistee County mobile app, available in Apple and Android platforms, by following the links below.

• Apple
• Android

The first settlers arrived in Manistee County in 1841 and it was formally organized in 1855. During its first census, in 1860, the county recorded 975 residents. In 1871, the year of the “Great Fire” in Chicago also proved devastating to Manistee, when over half of the city’s buildings were destroyed. The town quickly rebuilt itself and by 1885, the region was flourishing with nearly 15,000 people. In fact, at the time, the area claimed to have more millionaires per capita than any other city in the United States. Lumbering was the first major industry here, given the flowing rivers and Lake Michigan access. Salt mining followed, as did agriculture and fishing, among other smaller commerce operations.

Today, approximately 25,000 people call Manistee County home. The city of Manistee is the county seat, and the only actual city in the county. There are, however, five incorporated villages, eight unincorporated villages and 14 townships in the county. While there are some ties to past industries here, tourism is now driving the local economy—with an emphasis on natural resources, agriculture and historic preservation.

There are 28 properties in Manistee County listed with the State of Michigan as Historic Sites or as having Michigan Historical Markers; 15 properties are listed with the National Register of Historic Places, through the National Park System.

Located along 25 miles of sugar-sand Lake Michigan beaches, Manistee is a Pure Michigan destination, nestled in the heart of the Manistee National Forest. The scenic M-22 highway begins here, at the intersection of US-31, as it heads north 116.6 miles through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The Manistee County Visitors Bureau is an official travel and tourism organization, incorporated in 1997, as a non-profit agency, to promote Manistee County. Its mission is to promote Manistee County as a travel destination, to increase overnight visits and be the lead organization focusing on building the local tourism economy.

Hops & Props Craft Beer and Classic Boat Show Returns to Downtown Manistee, Sept. 12-14

Downtown Manistee will be brewing as the 3rd Annual Hops & Props Craft Beer and Classic Boat Show returns to the riverfront, Sept. 12-14. Tickets for all festival events go on sale Friday, August 1 online here.

“Last year, we had close to 2000 attendees and we expect this year’s event will be even bigger,” says Patrick Kay, director of the Manistee Main Street Downtown Development Authority.

The festival weekend kicks off on Friday with a reception at the Boathouse Grill, from 5-9pm. Tickets are $10 and are limited.

Saturday’s festivities run throughout the day and include a Boat Show, featuring the Century Boat Club, from 9am to 3pm along the Riverwalk. As many as 40 classic and wooden boats are expected to line the riverfront, both in and out of the water, in an event that has called Manistee home now for 57 years.

Saturday also features an Art’s Alive Art & Artisan Fair from 10am-6pm directly beside the main event space and live music from Noon to 6pm in front of the Marina.

A VIP Beer Tasting begins Saturday at 11:30am and runs until 1pm and includes 15 tasting tickets, a private gathering and lunch with the brewers, a commemorative tasting glass, custom polo shirt and admission to the main beer event. Limited tickets are available for this special preview, at $50 per person.

The Michigan Craft Beer Tasting takes place from 1-6pm along the downtown streets. Tickets are $20 per person and includes 10 tasting tickets. Nearly two dozen Michigan breweries are expected to participate. Several downtown restaurants will also be featuring “Michigan Beer Tap Take Over” offerings, from 6pm until Midnight.

The weekend concludes on Sunday with a Boater’s Brunch from 9-11am in the lobby of the Ramsdell Inn. Tickets are $15 per person.

For more information on Hops & Props, including the list of participating breweries, log onto VisitManistee.com and click on the “Events & Festivals” tab.

Downtown Manistee is home to nearly 150 businesses and community resources, many overlooking the Manistee River Channel and the Riverwalk, with a Central Business District listed on the “National Register of Historic Places.”

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) of the City of Manistee is an independent, special taxing district created in 1982. The DDA encourages redevelopment and revitalization and is an active participant in economic development, marketing and the stimulation of private investment.

Manistee County Visitors Bureau Launches Mobile App To Guide Tourists and Locals to Area’s Top Sites and Attractions

The Manistee County Visitors Bureau has launched a comprehensive new travel tool to guide visitors and locals to the area’s vast recreational, historical and natural attractions. Developed VisitApps, with content development by RIGHTside design in Manistee, this innovative mobile app offers turn-by-turn directions to more than 500 outdoor recreation sites, lodging properties, shopping destinations, restaurants and historic sites, as well as a list of area events.

“This resource will bring the Manistee County region into the new age of travel and tourism. It is one of only a handful of mobile applications in the State of Michigan that are this comprehensive and available for free to anyone with a smartphone or tablet device,” says Brandon Jensen, owner/creative director at RIGHTside design. “This has been an amazing project to be a part of and I commend the Visitors Bureau and its partners for creating such a valuable resource for locals and visitors alike.”

The Manistee County mobile app is available in Apple and Android platforms, and can be downloaded directly by using these links:

• Apple
• Android

“This will quickly turn into your most valuable four-season digital resource when visiting the Manistee County region,” says Kathryn Kenny, Executive Director of the Manistee County Visitors Bureau. “Along with the M-22 and U-Pick Farm tours, the mobile app provides launching directions and float times for the Manistee and Pine Rivers, as well as staging areas for the snowmobile trailheads.”

The app also provides quick access answers to popular questions including how to find the Little Mac Suspension Bridge, Gravity Hill, Nordhouse Dunes and the North Pier Lighthouse, among other unique destinations.

“No matter what you’re looking for, or the time of year, it’s ALL there at your fingertips,” Kenny says.

Local business owners are also praising the app, as it provides information for those looking to visit, work or live in the Manistee area.

“If you’re looking to rent one of our distinctive vacation homes or condos, just click on the ‘More’ section at the bottom of the screen and then on ‘Lodging’ to access the CENTURY 21 Vacation Rentals’ interactive website. We can help you find a place to stay awhile … or forever!” says Owner/Broker Suzanne Riley. “You can also learn about our historic 1873 building/office (113 Maple Street) by clicking on ‘Tours’ and ‘Historic Buildings Tour.’”

Located along 25 miles of sugar-sand Lake Michigan beaches, Manistee is a Pure Michigan destination nestled in the heart of the Manistee National Forest. The scenic M-22 highway begins here, at the intersection of US-31, as it heads north 116.6 miles through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The Manistee County Visitors Bureau is an official travel and tourism organization, incorporated in 1997, as a non-profit agency, to promote Manistee County. Its mission is to promote Manistee County as a travel destination, to increase overnight visits and be the lead organization focusing on building the local tourism economy.

Recent planting of 1,000 native trees part of Manitou Passage Golf Club's “wild renewal” initiative on the Leelanau Peninsula

As a designated wilderness area, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is hardly lacking when it comes to deep forest scenery. So what’s behind the recent planting of 1,000 semi-mature trees at the Manitou Passage Golf Club—the only 18-hole course located within a long iron or two of the Most Beautiful Place in America?

“You could say not all trees are created equal,” says Jamie Jewell, Marketing & Public Relations for Manitou Passage Golf Club. According to Jewell, invasive plant species had basically taken over the course purchased by a group of Leelanau County investors and reopened as Manitou Passage Golf Club in 2009. “Trying to return a native edge to the landscape has been the club’s mission ever since.”

Big Trees, Big Goal
The semi-mature trees — purchased from Komrska Tree Farm, in Interlochen— represent a diverse cross-section of northern hardwoods: cedar, maple, Norway spruce, birch, white pine and more. Ranging in size anywhere from 11- to 16-feet (depending on the species), the new trees will provide immediate shade, nesting habitat and cover for songbirds and wildlife as well as adding to the scenic enjoyment of clubhouse guests and golfers playing the exclusive Arnold Palmer course.

Komrska Tree Farm also provided a four-man labor team and the heavy machinery necessary for the planting, which owner Ben Komrska says will take about two weeks.

“This is a big job that requires a lot of specialized equipment. The smallest tree we’ve planted weights 400 pounds; the largest weighs in upwards of 2,500 pounds.”

Natural By Design
The coastal views, sprawling forests and farmland of the Sleeping Bear Dunes make it the scenic jewel of Leelanau County. But balancing modern development and creating a more enjoyable experience for golfers all while trying to preserve the integrity of the surrounding landscape is a job that requires a tremendous amount of foresight and planning.

The scope of the current project taking place along the fairway of the 18th hole required the expertise of Jerry Pearson of the California-based Peridian International, a landscape architecture and design firm. A Midwest native who has worked on various projects for The Homestead for over 30 years, Pearson understands that guests of the club come not only come for the challenging level of play at MPGC but also for the beautifully wild experience that makes this region one of the most scenic places in America.

“Protecting the relationship of the course to the natural environment was the first priority,” says Pearson. “But we managed to go beyond that by using native trees that have wonderful bark and leaf textures along with contrasting color—especially in the fall.”

Once the tree planting along the 18th hole is complete, Manitou Passage Golf Club is already eyeing plans for the next phase of its wild renewal plans, says Jamie Jewell.

“Our next goal is to improve the landscape surrounding holes 4 and 5 over the coming months and years,” she says. “We are hopeful that those areas can be further restored to a more natural landscape over the coming months. The club invites anyone interested in seeing the photos and progress updates of this and other projects to check MPGC’s Facebook page.”

Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau Announces “Manitou Moments” Photography Contest

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau is proud to announce the “Manitou Moments,” a photography contest designed to encourage visitors to the Sleeping Bear Dunes to share their unique visions of what makes this area so special. The contest follows the launch of a substantially redesigned website, intended to encourage tourism by providing easy access to information about the recreation, dining, and lodging options around the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Users of the site will find in-depth information about the historical and natural resources in the region, as well as detailed databases of lodging, shopping, and dining establishments in the bucolic small towns around the dunes.

Beginning immediately, the Visitor’s Bureau will accept submissions to “Manitou Moments,” a seasonal photography contest that aims to investigate the theme of “New Beginnings.” The winning photographs will respond to the theme by sharing photos of their travels to the area that document the spirit of spring and the new awakenings that it provides - Whether pictures of the natural landscape, of new family traditions, or of new friendships, the photographs should focus on the fresh starts provided by spending time in a stunning natural landscape.

Photos can be submitted to the Visitors Bureau’s Facebook page and click on the Manitou Moments tab. The contest will open immediately and will accept entrants until the 1st of September. Prizes will be awarded at the end of September. This will be the first of a series of four annual seasonal contests designed to highlight conducted annually to promote travel to the region. Each season’s contest will begin immediately following the closing of the previous season’s contest. Entrants are encouraged to submit a caption to explain their photograph and how it reflects the contest’s theme. Ten finalists will be determined by a jury of Visitors Bureau staff and the final prizes will be awarded based on the number of “likes” each photo receives on Facebook. For more information please visit, http://www.sleepingbeardunes.com/contest-rules/.

Manitou Moments Photography Competition

This is your Manitou. The place that you come to escape, the place where you rediscover the joys of spending time with the people you love, and who love you. The place where you remember how important it is to spend time in the great outdoors, and where you allow yourself to be indulged with fine food, world-class shopping, or a great massage.

This is your Manitou, but we’re asking you to share it with us. The first seasonal “Manitou Moments” photography competition is looking for your photographs of the landscape, amenities, and people who make the Sleeping Bear Dunes special to you. More specifically, we’re looking for photographs that capture the theme of “New Beginnings.” Send us pictures of the date that made you fall in love with your partner; of children discovering the joys of the dunes; of new friends; or of the landscape coming back to life after a hard winter.

Submissions for each seasonal contest will begin immediately following the close of the previous contest. Entrants are encouraged to submit a caption to explain their photograph and how it reflects the contest’s theme. Ten finalists will be determined by a jury of Visitors Bureau staff and the final prizes will be awarded based on the number of “likes” each photo receives on Facebook.

Schedule for Seasonal Contests
Spring: April 1 to June 15
Summer: June 15 to September 1
Fall: September 2 to November 30
Winter: December 1 to March 30

At the conclusion of each seasonal contest, 10 finalists will be selected by a jury. The winner will be the finalist with the most public votes on Facebook and will receive $100 gift card. The finalists will be featured on the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau website and the winner featured in the bureau’s annual publication Manitou, the Magazine of Leelanau.

For more information about the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau or Manitou Moments Photography Contest, contact Jamie Jewell, Public Relations 231.334.5524 | jamie@thehomesteadresort.com.

Stormcloud Brewing Releases Leelanau Pale Ale Series Featuring Locally-Grown Hops

Brewer Brian Confer calls it “Leelanau Pale Ale” series – and while he says the malt bill for each beer won’t change from batch to batch, the hops certainly will. Each beer in the 13-brew series will feature a single hop variety grown on the nearby Leelanau Peninsula. Empire Orchards and Hop Farm provided all but one hop variety, which came from New Mission Organics in Omena.

“The base beer style is somewhere between a pale ale and an amber ale – landing on the orange side and containing a dose of malty sweetness,” says Confer.

The bitterness is at the high end of a Pale Ale and the low end of an IPA, with the goal to keep the bitterness level consistent across the 13 brews.

“We do that by adjusting the first hop charge,” Confer says. “The brew will have hop additions at 60 minutes, 15 minutes, zero minutes and a drop-hop. The 15, zero and dry-hop amounts are always equal, but the 60 minute addition adjusts up or down to keep the bitterness consistent.”

The Summit hops incorporated into the third batch in the season are unique to Michigan and come from Brian Tennis at New Mission Organics. He is the only grower outside of the Yakima Valley that is growing this variety and one of only eight farmers in the country licensed to do so.

The other 12 varieties (listed below in order of production) come from Empire Orchards and Hop Farms.

Not knowing if the terroir of Michigan changes the character of these hops, which are typically purchased from the Pacific Northwest or from Britain, Confer said he wanted to conduct an experiment of sorts with this series.

“I thought it would be fun and enlightening to explore each hop individually and taste the characteristics of each Leelanau grown variety,” he says. “The way we’re releasing this series, it allows us to taste the significant difference each hop provides to the same base beer.”

The series is in production now, with 5bbls of each being offered up in the pub only. Nugget was released December 20 and is still on tap. Each batch will stay on tap as long as it takes to deplete the supply – the more popular the brew, the quicker it will sell out.

The hop list (in order of production) includes:

• Nugget: a great bittering hop with a clean bitterness and herbal aroma; typically used in pale ales and IPAs.
• Fuggle: a cornerstone hop in English brewing; classic aroma hop with pleasant wood and fruit tone; typically used in many British ales across all styles.
• Summit: a high alpha hop with funky, earthy, tangerine character; typically used in a variety of American Style Ales, particularly pale ales and IPAs.
• Crystal: used mainly for its aromatic properties. Mild, spicy and floral; typically used in a range of beer styles, from Barleywines to Lagers.
• Magnum: prized mostly for its high bittering value. Also has a spice & citrus aroma; used extensively in a range of beer styles often early in the boil to gain a good clean bitterness.
• Empire: classic noble hop type bittering with an aromatic blend of earth and spice; this hop has been in the state since 1850 and is grown only in Michigan and exclusively at Empire Orchards and Hop Farm.
• Cascade: a very popular US variety, with a moderate bitterness and fragrant, citrus-floral aroma; synonymous with American Pale Ale; typically used in American Pale Ales and IPAs. The signature hop in Sierra Nevada's Pale Ale.
• Vovjidina: a high alpha dual purpose hop - used both for its bittering and aroma properties. Exhibits a superior noble hop aroma profile; not widely used. Fun fact: it's slow to catch on because it's hard to pronounce! (Voe-va-dine-a).
• Chinook: mild to medium-heavy, spicy, piney and slight grapefruity; used extensively for bittering and dry-hopping in a range of American ales.
• Willamette: mild and pleasant, slightly spicy, fruity, floral and a little earthy; similar to and often used as a substitute to British Fuggles; used far and wide in a vast range of beer styles.
• Brewer's Gold: resiny and spicy bittering hop with a fruity black currant aroma; used in a range of beers from English & Belgian ales to German lagers.
• Glacier: a clean bittering hop with an earthy & citrus aroma; used in a range of American ales.
• Centennial: sometimes referred to as a “Super Cascade” with strong floral and citrus tones and clean bitterness; used extensively in American Pale Ales and IPAs. The signature hop in Bell's Two Hearted Ale.

Empire Orchards & Hops Farm was established in 2008 as one of the first commercial hop farms in the State of Michigan. Since 2008, Empire Hops Farm has been at the forefront of the rapidly expanding Michigan Hop Industry, distributing a high quality product to breweries throughout the state. Empire Hops farm sells fresh, dried whole leaf and pelletized hops.

New Mission Organics is located in Omena, in the northeastern part of the Leelanau Peninsula. This small 30-acre farm, owned by Brian and Amy Tennis, specializes in organic and sustainably grown hops. Currently, 10 acres are in production, with a planned expansion scheduled for the spring of 2014.

New Mission Organics is one of the founding members of the Michigan Hop Alliance – an organization created to advance the hop industry in Michigan through knowledge sharing and equipment availability. Through the MHA, member hop growers are now able to take hops from cones to pellets in a much shorter time.

For updates on when each brew batch will be released, follow Stormcloud Brewing on Facebook (www.facebook.com/StormcloudBrewing) and/or Twitter (www.twitter.com/StormcloudBrew).

Stormcloud Brewing is located at 303 Main St., Frankfort – just two blocks from Lake Michigan.

www.StormcloudBrewing.com

Multi-Day Windjammers Offer One-of-a-Kind Sailing Experiences Aboard Traverse City’s Tall Ship Manitou

Since 1987, the Traverse Tall Ship Company has been offering sailing adventures on the freshwater Grand Traverse Bay – and beyond, into Northern Lake Michigan.

As one of the largest sailing ships on the Great Lakes, the Manitou is a replica of an 1800s “coasting” cargo schooner. A traditional two-masted, gaff rigged, topsail schooner, Manitou measures 114 feet in length with more than 3000 square feet of sail.

Each September, the Manitou offers its popular windjammer excursions. These multi-day outings give passengers a one-of-a-kind experience to head out into the open waters and enjoy a relaxing, stress-free get-away, while visiting quaint coastal villages and soaking up the panoramic views of the northern Michigan shoreline.

The 2013 sailing schedule includes the following sailing trips: 4-Day Astronomy Cruise (Sept. 13-16 $685pp), 4-Day Wine Tasting Cruise (Sept. 20-23 $685pp) 4-Day Fall Color Cruise (Sept. 27-30 | $635pp). Accommodations are provided in 12 double-bunk cabins, and fare includes lodging, all meals and sailing activities.

Throughout the summer months, three two-hour day sails are offered each day – at Noon, 3pm (Moomers Ice Cream Sail) and Evening (6:30pm). Speciality cruises include Microbrew Tastings on Sunday evenings featuring Short’s Brewing Company, Entertainment Cruises with “Song of the Lakes” on Wednesday evenings, and the Wine Tasting Cruises featuring Leelanau Cellars (Tuesday evenings) and Left Foot Charley (Thursday evenings) both including specially-catered Mediterranean cuisine from Silver Swan Homemade foods. In addition, passengers have the option of experiencing an adventuress overnight aboard ship followed by full breakfast as part of the “Floating Bed & Breakfast.”

With a 59 passenger sailing capacity (24 overnight capacity), there is plenty of space for sitting and moving around the decks while under sail. While aboard the Manitou, passengers are free to leave the sailing to the experienced crew or lend a hand and learn the arts of the sailor. An excursion aboard the Manitou allows you to remove yourself from the trappings of modern life: no TV, phone (cell phones are discouraged), internet, email and definitely no itinerary.

In addition to public day sails and multi-day windjammer cruises, the schooner Manitou works with Inland Seas Education Association, providing hands-on environmental education to school kids from throughout the region and state. The Manitou is also available for private charters, making it ideal for corporate outings, wedding parties and family reunions.

Traverse Tall Ship Company is located at 13258 S.W. Bay Shore Drive (M22) in Traverse City and shares a dock with the fleet from the Maritime Heritage Alliance, creating a unique nautical experience for the area.

To make reservations for any of the 2013 Manitou sailing adventures, call toll free 800-678-0383 or order tickets online. Gift certificates are also available. For additional information about the Manitou, including its corporate charters, log on to www.TallShipSailing.com.

October is Full of Flavor & Color on Beaver Island

The weekend of October 6 will be among the most colorful, recreational and flavorful on Beaver Island.

Beginning at 10am at the historic Print Shop, the Island Boodle 5k Run takes participants through scenic St. James, along the waterfront and back through wooded trails during one of the most beautiful times of year. Benefitting Island Sports Boosters, the event draws serious runners as well as families, many with babies in strollers and four-legged friends.

As Mother Nature paints the trees in vibrant shades of reds, yellows and oranges, the island’s amateur and professional chefs will be serving up tasteful samples of seasonal treats during the 11th Annual Bite of Beaver Island Food Festival. Enjoy bite size bits of everything from soups and pizzas and other specialty fare, all at affordable prices. Activities will be held from Noon-3pm at the Holy Cross Hall.

Also part of the day’s festivities is an Arts & Crafts Show will take place at the Community Center from 11am-4pm and an “Apple Pie Contest” at Holy Cross Hall at 1:30pm. During the evening, the island’s pubs will be offering live music and entertainment.

Once on the island – whether participating in the Boodle or Bite of Beaver – visitors will find plenty of fall colors and natural activity to keep busy. The West Michigan Tourist Association features a Beaver Island Color Tour Route as one of 26 on its website:

“Starting at the ferry dock in "downtown" St. James, turn right at the Do It Best Hardware. Turn left at the top of the hill onto The Kings Highway heading south out of "town". Turn left on McCauley's Road. Turn right on East Side Drive. At the south end of the island it becomes West Side. Don't forget to stop and visit the Lighthouse just before Iron Ore Bay. Cross the 4-way intersection onto Paid Een Ogs Road. Turn left onto The Kings Hwy back to town.”

“Beaver Island's fall colors are spectacular and occur a little later than on the mainland because of the temperature moderation brought about by Lake Michigan,” says Steve West, Director of the Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce. “By early October, colors should be making a spectacular show – just in time for the Island Boodle and Bite of Beaver.”

Overnight rooms during the fall season on Beaver Island start at $75/night and Oak Wood Condos is offering two-bedroom suites (with kitchen and living areas) starting at $95/night.

Getting to Beaver Island is easy. The Beaver Island Boat Company runs through December, with limited runs in the early and late season. The 32-mile ride takes approximately two hours. Participants of the Island Boodle can get a discounted fare – at just $40/roundtrip for adults and $20/roundtrip for children. Fresh Air Aviation and Island Airways also both provide plane service to the island. All three services operate out of Charlevoix.

Those searching for a truly removed up-north destination will find it on Beaver Island, one of the purist four-season vacation destinations in Michigan. When it comes to natural escapes, nothing compares to America’s Emerald Isle – Beaver Island. For more information, call 231-448-2505 or log onto www.BeaverIsland.org.