VILLAGE OF ELK RAPIDS: Mixed feelings from merchants on ER craft shows
(July 22, 2010) 
Curious about how Elk Rapids downtown business people view the invasion of craft vendors invited in by our Chamber of Commerce, this editor asked their opinion on the effect of the summer arts and craft shows on their commerce. We also wondered if closing down the 200 block instead of the 100 and 200 blocks of River St., or moving it back to Veterans Memorial Park might be better for them. The Chamber charges vendors $75 for their booths, making the May, July and August Saturday shows a significant source of revenue. – Tom Vranich
“There are more people here to eat, so it means more business for us,” said Chef Charles Pizza owner Charles Egeler, who was upbeat about the shows and supportive of the location. “I saw people from out of town carrying bags from other businesses. If nothing else, it gets people into Elk Rapids.”
Princess & The Pea Sandy Barker was also positive. “I love anything that is an addition to Elk Rapids,” she said. “Anything that brings them here is good for business owners and residents.”
Next door at What to Wear, employee Nancy Casciano saw the traffic as an opportunity for future sales. “We weren’t very busy and sales were not great, but a lot of people came in who were tuned into crafts.”
Neighbor Ice Cream Peddlers were too busy to interview and undoubtedly had a very busy day on Saturday, another hot and sunny one perfect for satisfying “cone lickers” with their outstanding cool treats.
“It was so hot Saturday, they were looking for relief,” noted The Nature Connection owner Roxanne Lutey. “Although it is prime summer and the street is closed, it’s a win-win for everybody.” She was in favor of placing the craft show in the 200 block only, saying it is closer to the Memorial Park bathrooms and there is more shade available.
“We did better when they were down there,” said Portside Treats owner Debbie Comber, referring to ArtRapids!, the juried art show that takes place in Veteran’s Memorial Park. “It was just an average day [last Saturday], not any more than normal for us. I don’t know why. Sometimes there are vendors selling flavored popcorn.” There was a fudge vendor in this past weekend’s show.
T.J. Charlie’s restaurant owner Jon Heeke welcomes street events like Evening on River St. and the summer craft shows. “It’s good for business. ArtRapids! in the park may have been my best day ever,” he said. “Either leave it where it is or have it down there.”
Java Jones employee Johanna McMillan was also supportive. It brings in a lot of business,” she told us. “It all depends on the weather.”
“Sometimes it is [good], sometimes it isn’t,” said A Summer Place antique dealer Amanda Brink. “It doesn’t hurt us. I wouldn’t want to not have it.”
Gift line retailer Elk River Trading Company owner Jackie Widmaier, who sells inexpensive jewelry like several show vendors, welcomes the shows. “It’s a good idea,” she said. “I like it on the downtown streets as it brings people into the stores,” she said. “Some do complain about it.”
“We’re pleased with it, said owner Verne Wolfgram, co-owner of Whirylgigs toy shop with his wife Laura. “I think the timing is good and they are done well. It brings people downtown, the location is fine and it’s a good experience. It’s good to see so much energy.”
Mullaly’s 128 Studio & Gallery employee Mary Endress observed the craft shows increase traffic, but not necessarily sales. “We had a lot of people through the store, but it doesn’t increase actual business,” she said. “They’re looking for a $5 pair of earrings. We had 117 people through the store. Some look, but they’re not buying and say, ‘I’ll come back.’ It’s very valuable for discovery.”
Harborwear clothing owner Zach Hopkins thinks the increased traffic the shows generate is a plus for his business. “I like the craft shows,” he says. “They come through the stores. The walk in traffic is a good thing. The more exposure Elk Rapids gets, the greater it is for the community.”
“The 200 block would be better,” said veteran downtown retailer Pat Koch, owner of Stuff & Such. “Years ago when it was at the park, they wouldn’t come here. It’s awful on Memorial Day. We sit here all year and it’s awful. They shut down at 3 p.m. and we’re done. Don’t do as many and increase the quality. Raise our Chamber dues to make up for less revenue.”
Next door at Nifty Things, manager Julie Bean knows some who visit come back to buy. “It brings people into town and into the store,” she said. “There is an intake in sales. The last one was better that Memorial Day. Whether they buy or not, some come back later.”
Viola Gallery owner Ann Hutchinson was hesitant to comment. “It brings people to town, but it doesn’t help me,” she commented. “It’s nice to see people in town.”
Elk Rapids resident Brenda Miller, who has been active in helping the Chamber secure sponsorship for their Harbor Days book among other volunteer duties, noted the exposure effect the craft shows generate. “I overheard a group of ladies saying they should make a date to return to Elk Rapids to shop,” she said.
“The crafters love it,” stated Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sheila Marker. “They tell us that it’s the most organized, with good advertising and well attended. Many of them have been coming back for years and years. It’s nice to know the crafters think it’s the best show.” She said the location works best on the 100 block of River St., with overflow set up on the 200 block. “It’s a well-oiled machine, so if it’s not broke, we’re not going to fix it.”
Checking out a pink dress covered in cherries made by Elk Rapids seamstress Betty Morden, Grandmother Linda Schrader helps granddaughters Amber and Alyssa Heilmann of Chesterton, Indiana
Local CSA Farms: Building a sustainable tradition on historic foundations
By - Gerry Sell, Correspondent & Samantha Tengelitsch, Correspondent (July 22, 2010) 
Providence Farm, Central Lake
Someday perhaps a new Centennial Farm sign will go up along M-88 just east of Farrell Road: “Ryan and Andrea Romeyn, Providence Farm, Est. 2008.” It would be fitting. When the Romeyns look across their fields toward Torch Lake, they stand on land once home to Civil War veteran Robert R. Wilkinson. They bought 20 fertile acres from neighbor Katy Newman, who owns Bay View Centennial Farm to the east, and raised their new barn on a stone foundation laid in 1944 by the Dawson family. Now, with the help of friends and volunteers and four lively children, they are writing their own chapter in Antrim County history.
This is their third growing season, and the third year of their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. The first year they finished the barn and sold their first CSA vegetable and pork shares. Last year they added farm stand sales and built relationships with restaurant and grocery customers. This year their strawberries and some vegetable fields are certified organic through the Ohio Ecological Food and Farming Association (OEFFA). The rest of their land, and an adjacent leased parcel, are on track to be certified over the next two years.
Every Tuesday or Friday afternoon, from mid-June into October, CSA shareholders stream through the barn, piling their baskets high with fresh produce. Besides the strawberries, they find potatoes and carrots and sugar snap peas and snow peas and broccoli and lettuces and turnips and kale and beets and green beans and tomatoes and eggplant and garlic and squash and leeks and onions and chard and pumpkins, each in its season. The Romeyns sell their own pasture-raised pork and offer blueberries, chicken and turkey from other family farms. They love what they do.
If picking up a CSA share at the barn isn’t for you, there are other options. You can buy a quart of new potatoes or a bag of salad greens at the self-service farm stand on M-88, or at the Providence Farm booth at the Elk Rapids farmers market every Friday (or at the markets in Charlevoix, Boyne City or Traverse City). You could arrange to have your CSA share delivered to a farmers market or drop-off point—you can read more about all that at the Providence Farm website: www.csafarms.org/providencefarm.asp. -GS
Wells Family Farm, Williamsburg
Mike and Phyllis Wells of the Wells Family Farm in Williamsburg did not set out to be farmers. “I never had a horticulture class in my life,” said Mike Wells, “I have a degree in Zoology and Phyllis has a degree in Spanish.” However, not long after college, the couple found themselves returning home to Northern Michigan with little more than a love of gardening.
“I was out of a job and we went looking around for what we wanted to do next and we loved to garden, so we went back to where we came from and started the farm.
The Wells started off with about a quarter acre and now operate a farm utilizing four of 40 total acres for growing. Those four acres support a thriving 45-member CSA in addition to produce sold at market and a roadside stand.
Wells said CSAs connect farms with community, “It’s a group of ‘eaters’ that seek out a farm to supply them with their food and they become a community once they join up with that farmer.”
In addition, Wells feels the community benefits from improved and sustainable growing standards and reduced environmental impact: “The more local food we can get; the less we rely on food from far-away sources; the less we rely on petroleum; the less we rely on over-seas sources of all these things.”
“You get to see exactly where your food is coming from. You learn to eat in season and especially here in the north, that’s a big issue. We need to learn to eat the things that can be grown and stored here for the winter.”
In addition to a wide-range of fresh produce, the Wells also grow several perennial fruits including raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and peaches.
The Wells Family Farm on Elk Lake Road is a non-certified organic farm that has been in operation for more than 27 years. For more information, please visit: www.csafarms.org/wellsfamilyfarm.asp. -ST
A CSA (community supported agriculture) is a farm that is supported through the sales of shares of the harvest. Shareholders enjoy farm-fresh food during the growing season and farmers benefit from the early financial support afforded to the farm through the sale of CSA memberships.
Captions: Wells Family Farm fresh produce on display at the Farmer’s Market in Elk Rapids each Friday. (Photo by Samantha Tengelitsch)
VILLAGE OF ELK RAPIDS: Sidewalk expense discussed at Village Council meeting
By - Samantha Tengelitsch, Correspondent (July 22, 2010)
At a regularly scheduled meeting Monday evening, the Elk Rapids Village Council discussed changes to Proposed Ordinance No. 418 addressing specifically sidewalk repair and replacement within the village. Zoning Administrator Steve Ravezzani presented the new wording for the ordinance that will lessen the financial responsibility of property owners for sidewalk repair or replacement.
Previously, sidewalk repair and replacement was the responsibility of the property owner. In the most recent draft of the proposed changes to the ordinance regarding sidewalk construction: “Primary sidewalks, as designated on the Primary Sidewalk List and on the Sidewalk Master Plan, as may be amended, will be constructed by the Village of Elk Rapids at Village expense.”
Property owners along non-primary sidewalks, including PUD developments, will be either the sole cost of the property owner or developer.
In regards to repair of primary and non-primary sidewalks, the new proposed wording again lessens the financial burden for the property owner. According to the new wording, The Village of Elk Rapids at Village expense will repair primary sidewalks in need of repair. Property owners along non-primary sidewalks will be responsible for 50% of the cost of repairs or replacement.
During the discussion, Elk Rapids resident Mark Helveston asked the board if there’s a plan moving forward, “I walk a lot along the village and there isn’t a sidewalk other than the main drag that’s walkable. I think it’s a detriment to the property owner the way the sidewalks are. They’re all tilted and broken up – is there a plan?”
Village President Dan Reska said a plan with respects to walkability in accordance with the Master Plan is a priority, “We think this might be a bad time in the economy to ask people to spend. We’re trying to come up with the most fair approach and then we’ll fix the sidewalks.”
A public hearing will be held in August following the next draft of the ordinance. For more information, please contact the Village of Elk Rapids at (231) 264-9274.
Harbor Days is coming
(July 22, 2010)
Harbor Days organizer Dayna Valpey says she is in full gear with this year’s Harbor Days celebration only two weeks away. The 55th annual event begins on Wednesday, August 4th with Arnold’s Amusement sponsored by the Elk Rapids Lions Club celebrating its 25th year, Evening on River St. featuring the Center Stage Band and special opening ceremonies on River St.
Community Day is set for Thursday, August 5th beginning with a Pillo Polo Tournament at Veterans Memorial Park at 9 a.m. and ending with the Harbor Voices at Elk Rapids High School’s Peterman Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. The Harbor Days Community Dinner tickets are now on sale for $12 per person. It’s scheduled for Thursday in Veterans Memorial Park from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available at the Chamber, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen and Northwood Soda are providing the food and drink this year.
Friday is Kid’s Day that begins with Garden Club Bake Sale, Farmer’s Market and Harbor Hoops at 8:00 a.m., ending with the showing of The Incredible Mr. Limpet as this year’s Movie in the Park sponsored by Burnette Foods and the Lee Family Offices.
The Harbor Days Grande Parade takes place on Saturday, August 7th at 12 Noon on River Street and is sponsored by The Elk Rapids Animal Hospital, with retired Elk Rapids Police Chief Mike Miles leading the way as Grande Marshal. The applications for the parade are due tomorrow Friday, July 23 and are available at the Chamber. It's free for all to enter. New this year from 6 - 8 p.m. is the Balance Workshop sponsored by FAST Physical Therapy. This takes place in Veterans Memorial Park, only a few steps away from the Community Dinner. This workshop is complimentary and participants will receive a free balance assessment, learn about why balance is important, and also learn six tips for fall prevention.
The annual Elk Rapids Rotary Chicken BBQ also begins at 12 Noon on Saturday near the carnival. Zambelli’s Internationale Fireworks promises to be one of the best ever as they celebrate their 20th year at Harbor Days. Donations for support of the fireworks are accepted year round and greatly appreciated.
Following the morning clean-up on Sunday, August 8, Worship in the Park & Potluck at Veterans Memorial Park wraps up Harbor Days at 11 a.m., with special guests Marshall and Mary Collins, sponsored by the Elk Rapids United Methodist Church.
“Harbor Days is completely volunteer run and takes over 300 volunteers to make it successful,” Valpey said. “Harbor Days is a big city festival with a small town feel and truly is a celebration of community. Families of all ages can enjoy the numerous family friendly events during the four-day festival located in beautiful downtown Elk Rapids. See you there!”
For more information, visit www.elkrapidschamber.org.
ELK RAPIDS LIONS CLUB: Carnival, food sales support eyeglass and hearing programs
(July 22, 2010)
During Harbor Days, the Lions Club is involved in bringing fun and food to those that attend the various events. Their volunteers sponsor the Arnold Amusements Carnival celebrating its 25th year and also will be dispensing a variety of food from their newly repainted purple an deep yellow stripped food trailer. “This year, we will be serving Johnsonville Brats and Ball Park Hot Dogs with all the trimmings, chips and cheese, an assortment of soda pop plus lemonade–all at an economical price,” said member Jan Bassett.
The funds raised through this event and other year-round fund raising activities are used by the Lions in outreach programs that provide support to Education, such as high school sports participation scholarships, Community Services, such as providing eyeglasses and hearing aids for those in need, and emergency medical expense coverage, aid and programs for the multiply challenged. We also participate in programs that support community, state and world-wide service programs, focusing on sight, hearing diabetes and other health improvement programs.
The Harbor Days Queen’s luncheon is provided annually following the parade and an annual “Thank you” dinner for seniors and others for their continued support.
ART RAPIDS! celebrates the Elk Rapids Cinema
(July 22, 2010)
A limited number of tickets will be available for a celebration of the historic Elk Rapids Cinema and its recent renovations. Theatre owner Joe Yuchasz has partnered with the Art Rapids organization to present a private showing of “West Side Story” on August 18 at 7:00 p.m., followed by a reception at Siren Hall.
Tickets to the event are available at Twisted Fish Gallery, Mullaly’s 128, or at the Cinema. All Art Rapids board members also have tickets for sale, and an order form is available on the web at www.artrapids.org. Cost is $20 per person for the movie and snacks; the dessert reception and champagne toast following the movie are an additional $20 per person. Funds generated by the event will support the Art Rapids scholarship and grant program, as well as performances and classes offered to the community.
On arrival at the Cinema, guests will be greeted in the lobby by a pair of talented young vocalists performing music from West Side Story. The singers are Katie McCall and Eric Fegan, students at Traverse City West High who are studying voice under renowned mezzo-soprano Jayne Sleder. The Cinema owner himself, Joe Yuchasz, will accompany them on the piano.
The Elk Rapids Cinema goes back to 1940, when Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Loomis opened the doors. These owners had previously run a theatre in the building where the Town Club is; in this location, they converted the Elk Rapids movie scene from silent to sound. In 1960, the theatre was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Howard Coddington, who previously showed free outdoor movies each summer in Northern Michigan resort communities. In 1972, the Cinema was purchased by its third and current owner, Joe Yuchasz.
Correction:
(July 22, 2010)
Burt Thompson is the Engineer-Manager of the Antrim County Road Commission, not the Road Commissioner as listed in our Milton Township news story that ran in last week’s edition. – Editor
YOUR LETTERS: Making the streets work for everyone
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
Since the many heartfelt exchanges of letters to the editor about skateboarding, I have found my awareness peaked as I have been out walking, ‘blading and biking around our incredibly beautiful Elk Rapids area. What I have noted is that there are a lot of people (young and old alike) that do not practice, or maybe just don't know the proper road use rules for these activities. I have seen runners and walkers on the wrong side of the road, cyclists and rollerbladers on the wrong side of the road, and yes, even skateboarders on the wrong side of the road.
I base my statement of "wrong side of the road" on the Michigan traffic laws for bicyclists and pedestrians according to Universal Traffic Codes. Michigan traffic laws indicate bicyclists are to ride with the flow of traffic, and not on sidewalks intended for pedestrians. Pedestrians are to use sidewalks when available and safe. If sidewalks are not present or safe, they are to move against the flow of traffic on the shoulder of the roadway.
There are many other methods of pedestrian travel other than just walking or running these days (according to the Universal Traffic Codes), such as any coaster wheeled forms of travel, like rollerblades, skateboards and scooters. Therefore these forms of travel are to follow the same rules as common pedestrians and move against the flow of traffic. And they are entitled to the same safe girth by motorized vehicles as any walker and runner when a paved shoulder is not available.
Maybe this is something that should be included in the Elementary Safety Instruction Program (Stranger Danger, DARE, etc..) by our local law enforcement officers, since by the number of adults not practicing these safety rules while getting around, appear not to know them as well.
Elk Rapids is a walking, healthful, Green building community. If all of us make the effort to follow the safe rules of the road, we should be able to make the roads work for all of us no matter how we choose to travel them.
Beth Pryde
Elk Rapids
YOUR LETTERS: Dittos on back-in angle parking
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
Dittos on Carrie Wilson's letter on back-in angle parking in the July 15th edition. Make it 28 additional concerned citizens who are opposed to it by adding my name to the list. What on earth were they thinking? If they're so concerned about parking causing accidents, why not have all of the beach-goers simply park on Traverse, Ottawa, Pine, Spruce, Elm, etc., like those who visited the craft show on Saturday? That would really solve the problem and alleviate their concerns.
Larry Quade
Elk Rapids
YOUR LETTERS: All candidates had equal opportunity to appear at Forum
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
We had a terrific turnout for the Antrim County Bi-Partisan Meet the Candidate Forum on July 14. Over 100 people sat for two and a half hours in the heat to listen to their candidates.
Only one candidate ignored the invitation to attend the Antrim County Bi-Partisan, Meet the Candidate Forum held in Alden on July 14th. It’s too bad Howard Walker did not attend. He missed a great chance to speak to the voters
When he did not reply to the Forum invitation, I called him. He told me, "I didn't think you would be fair, since you are a supporter of Randy Bishop.” I assured him, that I was only the organizer of the Forum and was not taking part in it. Both he, and his campaign manager, told me they "would consider my invitation" and promised to reply. In fact, his campaign manager told me he "wanted Howard to attend and would speak to him." I never heard back from either one of them, despite the fact that I continued to send emails and a voice message after talking with them.
Invitations were sent to 16 candidates and every one of them replied except Mr. Walker. It is my opinion that Mr. Walker not only ignored the invitation, but he ignored the people attending the Forum and the radio listeners as well. He deprived them of the chance to meet him, and hear his position on issues relating to our state during this time of economic crisis.
Priscilla Miller, Alden, Forum organizer
(Also Correspondent for the Elk Rapids News)
YOUR LETTERS: Lost wallet returned by caring couple
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
Owning a house with my wife in Elk Rapids, I often read your letters to the editor and thought this would make a good one.
Spying a beautiful Michigan Saturday, I made all the preparations, hooked up the boat and headed out to enjoy a fun-filled day on the lake. My destination is normally Elk, Torch or East Bay. This time though, with friends out on Glen Lake, I headed west. Needing to gas up, I stopped at Grumpy’s (the Mobile station on M-72). While filling up, I placed my wallet with cash and credit card on the bumper. And now for the rest of the story:
We’ve all been there, the panic when you realize you’ve left your purse or wallet somewhere. Mine happened just after I dropped the boat in the drink! Thinking just by chance someone saw it and picked it up and called my work and got my cell phone and called me to leave me a message, I checked. Nancy Gribi had left me a message. She and her husband, Roger, had seen my wallet ‘explode’ on M72 with cash, credit cards flying everywhere. They took the time to gather it all together and sleuth out the owner. After talking to them on the phone, I met Roger by boat on Glen Lake where he told me he was a builder who lives just a couple miles from our Elk Rapids house on Campbell Road. After relating this story to several people, it may have seemed like a long shot for my story to turn out this way, but with Roger and Nancy it was typical. I am very grateful to have had the day turn out much better than expected.
Dana Pratt, Kewadin
YOUR LETTERS: Don’t destroy dune for parking
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
I find it hard to believe that anyone would think it is a good idea to destroy a natural dune to install a parking lot. There is a limited amount of unspoiled coastline, and once it is gone, there is no way to get it back. Please do anything you can to save the Dam Beach. There must be better ways to handle a parking problem. What about the empty lot at the corner of Dexter and Noble? It is just a patch of grass with "no trespassing" signs and is just as close to the harbor. Any other suggestions would also be welcome.
Mary Kane McAuslan
St. Charles, IL and Elk Rapids
YOUR LETTERS: Reject bigotry, racism
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
If you're wondering what is currently happening in our country, read Sun Tzu: The Art of War. General Tzu believed countries could be drastically weakened without laying siege on them. Through a variety of clandestine subversive activities such as spreading false rumors and misleading information, to corrupt and subvert officials, to create and exacerbate internal discord the enemy could be defeated. Sound familiar with current events? I urge people to reject and challenge bigotry, racism and reverse racism. An apathetic and divided country will not survive. If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.
Wally Juall, Kewadin
YOUR LETTERS: Community thanks
(July 22, 2010) 
Last weekend, the Antrim County Women Democrats held a food drive at the Village Market in Elk Rapids. I would like to thank you - the wonderful members of this community. You are the ones, with your generosity, that make these food drives a success.
Jane Lund, ER Community Cupboard
YOUR LETTERS: Questions on back in angle parking
(July 22, 2010)
Dear Editor,
What possibly could the powers that be have been thinking when they redesigned the parking spaces at Memorial Park, with back-in-angle parking? Never in my travels through cities and towns across America have I ever encountered such an unconventional pattern of parking. A Michigan State police officer acquaintenance of mine has not experienced such a layout either.
Proponents defend the current design by saying vehicles no longer have to unload their beach items in the street. Had they not considered that backing into a space for the most part requires use of one’s rearview mirror, which could be limited by passengers, chairs, baskets, beach toys, etc.? Therefore how possibly could one see a ball rolling under his car or a door opening from a car parked next to his space. If safety is an issue, parents feel less a need to watch their children in the park than in the street. I question the powers. Is there possibly a list of statistics of accidents having occurred in the past twenty years, within the traditional design? The current pattern leaves one to believe that there is an accident waiting to happen.
Moreover, since I became a homeowner in the village, over 20 years ago, I have spent countless hours, after parking straight in, viewing the beauty of the bay, observing people enjoying themselves at play, and drinking in spectacular sunsets, all from my car. These pleasures have now been denied. Now with an arm slung across a seat and looking backwards at an angle, the experience isn’t the same. Suffice to say, the powers should have left well enough alone.
Dale Lopus
Elk Rapids
Farm & Orchard Report
By - Brian Altonen (July 22, 2010)
Our area received some spotty rain over the past few days. The field crops are showing signs of drought stress which is primarily indicated by wilted leaves. Tree fruits have deeper root systems and are more drought-tolerant. If I could order up a weather forecast, I’d say, “bring on the rain,” especially now that most of the local cherries have already been picked.
Farmers typically use the time following the mechanical harvesting of the cherries to fix equipment that gets neglected during the harvest. Routine maintenance is usually done on the cherry shakers and forklifts at this time of year. Some farmers take this time to make repairs to cherry tanks and lugs as they get ready to store them until next year. It’s a nice time of year for local farmers to take a short breather before the next big fruit crop which for most is apples but for some it’s pears.
This is the time of year I usually encourage people to get out there and see what our area has to offer in terms of fresh, local produce. It’s on of my favorite times of year – cherry season is almost over, we can enjoy a bit of free time, and we can make a meal out of garden goods. This year some vegetables that typically ripen in the fall like winter squash will be available even earlier than expected. So, take advantage of the early year and eat fresh, local food while it’s available.
Apricot season is already wrapping up – it was a quick season and a light crop overall. The peaches are officially starting to come in. The early varieties of peaches are more for eating rather than canning since they are not the “free stone” varieties. Red Haven peaches and the other “free stone” varieties will ripen around mid-August which is about two to three weeks ahead of last year. Clapp pears will be available in the early part of August with some plums and early apples to follow soon after.
The local sweet corn has been coming in and the quality and taste is excellent this year. Other garden crops like lettuces, broccoli, carrots, green beans, cucumbers, zucchini, and summer squash, and beets are available now. Other things like gladiolas and dill are also available locally.
As always, if you have any questions regarding the farming scene in our area, please feel free to email me at cherrymkt@aol.com. Thanks for eating fresh, eating local, and for supporting area farms and farm markets!
Mud Bathers
(July 22, 2010) 
Junior high school students from Traverse City strike a pose on the Island House footbridge in Elk Rapids Saturday evening. Asked why they coated themselves in mud: "We were inspired after slipping so many times on the bank."
Photo by Samantha Tengelitsch
Here come the political signs…
(July 22, 2010)
With August 3rd primary and millage ballot elections on the horizon, political signs are popping up everywhere. We wondered what the rules were here in the Village of Elk Rapids, so asked Zoning Administrator Steve Ravezzani about restrictions for their placement. “The signs represent our First Amendment rights,” he told us. “Political signs are excluded from our normal permit process, but must be taken down within three days of an election.” Size limit for commercial properties is a total of 16 square feet, while four square feet is the maximum size for those placed on residential property. For more information, call the Village offices at 264-9274. –Editor
Sandie’s Galley
By - Sandie Parker (July 22, 2010) 
There is no need for tarter sauce or lemon with this super tasting fish. It’s unbelievable how the pesto and bruschetta go so well together, not to mention just how awesome it looks when it is all put together. Cod for me is the best tasting of all the fish there is to pick from. It is mild, meaty, flaky and you can serve it so many ways. We had our kids over for dinner the other night and this is what I decided to make. I served it with a quick and easy zucchini casserole with cheese, and hash brown potatoes. They cleaned their plates and wanted more. I am positive you will do the same whether you grill it, or cook it in a skillet on the stove. This would also be wonderful on grilled chicken and salmon. Now you have three recipes in one. Don't forget to write to me at sandiesgalley@gmail.com with any questions or comments. I love hearing from you, and stay tuned for my new cookbook news. For the boaters, lots of goodies at our store so check it out at www.sandiesgalleyandmore.com. See you all very soon.
Two Times Saucey Grilled Cod
3-4 T. olive oil
4 cod fillets, rinsed and patted dry
2 eggs, whisked
1 1/2 c. Panko seasoned bread crumbs
1 tsp. Montreal Steak Seasoning
4 tsp. jarred pesto
4 T. roasted garlic bruschetta topping
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated Place a large piece of foil on grill, spread the olive oil on the foil. Preheat grill to medium-high. Dip the fillets in the egg, then coat with bread crumbs. Sprinkle with steak seasoning and place on hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, depending upon how thick they are. They should be golden brown. Remove from grill, top each piece with some pesto and bruschetta, then sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan cheese. You can also follow this method and cook them in a skillet. Serves 4. Outrageously good!
Morton Miller Fiduciary Services
(July 22, 2010) 
Sonja Morton of Traverse City and Brenda Miller of Elk Rapids have formed Morton Miller Fiduciary Services to offer a variety of personal services for area families. They can act as a court appointed conservator, V.A. fiduciary, pay bills, settle small estates, as well as offer personal and real property management. Morton has experience as an assistant bank vice president and senior trust tax officer, while Miller has experience as a bank trust officer and communications consultant/manager. “It's a pretty unique service," Miller said. "No one puts themselves in this position, but they can relate to someone." For more information, call Brenda Miller at 231-499-0134.
Photo by Tom Vranich
ER Fitness Center under new ownership
(July 22, 2010) 
The Elk Rapids Fitness Center, located at 7401 Cherry Avenue, Kewadin, is now under the new ownership of Tim and Yvonne Tilley. The fitness center is open 24 hours with membership and offers personal training, cardio equipment, weight machines and free weights. Call 264-5033 or 357-3674 for more information.
Photo by Tom Vranich
Halo Monitoring for remote fall detection
(July 22, 2010) 
Kewadin Medical Specialties is launching a new service that is part of what promises to be a new wave in health care – remote health monitoring. Ed DeRosha, Kewadin Medical Specialties, recently joined Halo Monitoring as an agent to market and sell the company’s automated fall detection and remote vitals monitoring systems. The Halo system is designed to keep seniors and their caregivers connected with user-friendly technology. The device links seniors by phone or internet to family members or caregivers of their choosing, who are alerted automatically in the event of a fall
“Given an aging population that is living longer, the desire of most seniors to ‘age-in-place’, in addition to increasing economic pressures for them to do so, this technology is particularly timely,” Ed commented.
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Photo by Tom Vranich
Kickbikes hit Elk Rapids
(July 22, 2010) 
A recently retired Traverse City area schoolteacher has founded TC Scoot, a new business which will bring Finnish made Kickbikes® to northern Michigan. Kickbikes are kick powered, scooter-like vehicles that have no chains or gears. “The Traverse City area is an outdoor playground and I’m excited to help introduce residents and visitors to this unique mode of transportation,” said Virginia Tegel, who has named her rental Kickbikes after her nine siblings. “We have so many residents and visitors who areinterested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and Kickbikes are a fun way to do so.” Here her nieces Molly Beausir and Makayla Huser of Indianapolis, Indiana. For more information, www.tcscoot.com or call 231-360-4206.
Photo by Tom Vranich
Can she bake a cherry pie?
By - Priscilla Miller, Correspondent (July 22, 2010) 
The kitchen at Alden’s United Methodist Church was a busy place last week as 160 pounds of cherries donated by Jon and sister Neva Veliquette of Great Lakes Packing Company in Elk Rapids were made into pies. On Thursday alone, women from the church baked 74 cherry pies. Of course for “quality control purposes,” they ate one.
On Friday morning the warm, mouth-watering aroma of baking pies filled the air once again as the ladies were back in the kitchen, hoping to have a grand total of 160 pies by day’s end. Diane Nemeth said, “You know you’re baking a lot of pies when you buy almond extract by the quart and the recipe only calls for a quarter of a teaspoon per pie.”
A pie production line was formed. One woman measured just the right amount of cherries into a pot, stirred in flour, sugar and almond extract, another rolled dough to make the bottom crust, another spooned the filling into pie shells and passed it on to the next woman who added dollops of butter before placing the top crust, crimping the edges to seal in the juices and making a slit on top to let steam escape during baking.
Some of the pies were lined up with others on the counter to wait their turn into the oven. As soon as one golden brown batch of pies emerged from the oven, another batch followed. Once cool, the pies were boxed and ready to be sold. Some of the pies were left unbaked and frozen, to be baked later by the person purchasing them and there was even a batch of sugar free pies.
The pies went on sale Friday and Saturday, with proceeds going to benefit local and state charities, including the United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids, a non-profit agency with a mission of helping children, youth, adults, families and seniors since 1902.
Any cherry pies that were not sold will be frozen and sold along with a variety of other home baked pies and cakes, at the annual church bake sale on July 31st, during Alden Days festivities.
Elk Rapids Golf Club hosts 22nd Annual Youth Golf Program
(July 22, 2010) 
On July 13th, 15th and 16th the Elk Rapids Golf Club held its 22nd Annual Youth Golf Program and Tournament. In the program, club members provide free golf instruction to boys and girls ages 8 to 13. Over 35 club members volunteered their time and 42 children in the community took part. The program culminated on Friday, July 16th with a tournament for the participants. During the first two days, club members provided individual and group lessons to the boys and girls on golf skills including driving, pitching, chipping and putting. Instruction on golf rules and etiquette was also covered in the program.
On Friday, July 16th, the Club closed the course to the general public for over 3 hours to hold a special tournament for the children who had taken part in the two days of instruction. Boys and girls ages 8 to10 played a 3- hole match and the 11 to 13 age group played a 6- hole match. At the conclusion of the tournament the Club provided free food and beverages for the children and their families. Trophies and certificates, along with door prizes donated by club members, were presented by Club President Deems Smith to the tournament participants.
In the 8 to 10 age group, the boy winner was Cameron Kornsey and Zachary Platt finished 2nd. The girl winner was Katie Ferguson with Nicole Sands coming in 2nd. In the 11 to 13 age group, the boy winner was Ryan Masell. Hayden Black and Jack Hawkins tied for 2nd. The girl winner was Cara Ferguson followed by Mollie Michaud who came in 2nd.
Both Katie and Cara Ferguson who finished 2nd in last year’s tournament, moved into the 1st place bracket in 2010. Congratulations to all.
The Club was happy to welcome back former program participant Anna Gray for her help as an official in the tournament. Anna is now a member of her high school golf team. Thanks also to club member volunteers Bob Kingon, Donna Reffitt, Joyce and Gary McDowell, Wanda Humphrey, George Zambo, Sue & Rob Cain, Kim & Frank Sands, Brian Taylor, Betty & Bob Kleinow, Kathy & Pete DiMercurio, Jeri & Gene Miller, Dave Christenson, Nancy Butson, Ann Borysiak, Cheryl & George Knight, Marty Olosky, and Katy Black A special thank you to Patty McDonald, Joanne Emmett, Ron Dork, Ron Kuite, Dana Vannoy, Deb Smith and Jim Hoey who volunteered their time on all three days. We also appreciate Carol Merillat and the Lomasney family who donated additional golf clubs.
Deborah Taylor, Linda Hoey and Mack Endo of the Youth Program/Golf Committee are sorry if we missed anyone and would also like to give many thanks to our golf staff for all their work. Pictured are 8-10 year group winners Cameron Kornsey & Katie Ferguson (left, right, above…) and 11-13 year group winners Ryan Masell & Cara Ferguson. Text and photos submitted by Deborah Taylor, Chairman
Candles for a Cause
(July 22, 2010) 
Elk Rapids resident and Miner’s North owner Beth Guntzviller places a bid at last weekend’s "Candles for the Cause" fundraiser for the Antrim County High Tea for Breast Cancer Prevention held at Shanty Creek Resort. Silent and Live auctions were held, with about 170 people in attendance. Many local businesses and residents contributed items to help make this a success. Attendees held votive candles during a ceremony representing residents in Antrim County who will be helped this year because of their generosity and concern for our cause.
Courtesy photo
Big Winner at The Moose
(July 22, 2010)
The Moose Party Store owner Steve Montroy reported a customer purchased a winning Power Ball ticket at his store recently, with five of six numbers matching to earn a prize of at least $200,000. “The winner wants to remain anonymous, but did claim it,” he told the Elk Rapids News. “He generously gave $1,000 to our employee who sold it to him and [my wife] Lori and I are giving each employee $50 from our payment for selling the ticket.” The Moose also sold a big winner two years ago, so maybe it should be known as The Lucky Moose!
Whites debut new art at Twisted Fish
(July 22, 2010) 
Kewadin artists and retired educators Bill and Margaret White greeted a large turnout of admirers at last Friday’s Grand Opening at Twisted Fish Gallery in Elk Rapids. Bill, pictured above, uses a deglazing technique to remove color from his oils that render a softer, more diffused effect that he can control selectively within his image. Stop by Twisted Fish, located off U.S. 31 at the south end of town, for the show that runs through August 8th. Gallery hours this summer are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday through Saturday and Noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Photo by Tom Vranich
Tour northern Michigan right in Elk Rapids!
(July 22, 2010) 
Michigan Maps owner Mark Stone recently created this huge 14’ wide by 10’ high version of his popular northern Michigan map for display at his downtown Elk Rapids office, located at 104 Dexter St. Elk Rapids News owner/publisher Kathleen Weitschat checks a spot near Alpena, with Grand Traverse Bay in the foreground. Stone was pleased with the way his wide format digital printer produced four separate pieces that later perfectly fit together to make the wall size map that features highly detailed topographic and location information. “When they see this, people really see the detail in the maps,” he said. Michigan Maps produces a wide variety of location maps, along with a Native American place-name map. For more information, call 264-6800, or visit www.michiganmapsonline.com/
Photo by Tom Vranich
Perfect weather, big turnout for RAT
(July 22, 2010) 
Bicycle riders from around the country gathered at Elk Rapids High School on Sunday morning to take the 26, 63 or 100 mile cruise in this year’s Ride Around Torch (RAT), sponsored by the Cherry Capital Cycling Club. Riders enjoyed the scenic beauty of Antrim County on lightly traveled roads primarily along the shores of Torch Lake. A picnic lunch for approximately 800 riders was served at Veterans Memorial Park as part of the entry fee, with $1 donated to the League of Michigan Bicyclists to support safe cycling. Here riders crest Indian Road in Milton Township with East Grand Traverse Bay in the background, with a SAG support vehicle following along.
Photo by Tom Vranich
Fresh veggies now ripening
(July 22, 2010) 
Kewadin based vegetable farmer Joe Coleman, who grows vegetables on about 16 acres of fertile ground just off Coleman Road near the 45th parallel off of U.S. 31, is now harvesting these beautiful Early Strait Neck Yellow Squash, Green and Golden Zucchini, along with slicing and pickling cucumbers. Soon to follow are green beans, new potatoes, fresh basil, spaghetti, winter, acorn, butternut and buttercup squash. Not soon after that will be cabbage, jalapeño and green peppers, sweet corn and a huge crop of slicing and canning tomatoes. He supplies several local grocery markets and sells some to local residents directly. For more information, call Joe at 231-313-2930.
Photo by Tom Vranich
Obituary Correction:
(July 22, 2010)
Kathy Borey asked for this correction to Theodore D. Wynne’s obituary that was published in our March 25, 2010 edition: “'surviving sister of Theodore Wynne - Dolly and her spouse Sam Steele and Theodore's nephews Mark and Greg and niece Robin of Powway California; niece Suzy (Charles) Kerndt of Traverse City, Michigan.”