Summer 2012

Life in Tecumseh and Surrounding Areas

homefront
Commodity Code #8014-0719

There is more to life than simply increasing its speed. ~ Mahatma Ghandi

On the cover
Mahatma Ghandi (one of Downtown Tecumseh's Art Trail sculptures) strolls the Boulevard. Photo by Hollie Smith

Summer
CONTENTS
6 ...... TASTE OF SUMMER 8 ...... COME TO REST 14 .... ARABIANS
Dine at Evans Street Station Local inns offer variety The Smoke's Mokee Arabians

Swan family along the River Raisin. Photo by Jim Lincoln.

18 .... CAPTURING THE IMAGE 22 .... THINK OUTSIDE 24 .... WATER GARDENS

Photographer Dr. John Kelly

Raisin Township's Deb Brousseau Area gardens flourish Stone Mountain Family Fun Center

26 .... FAMILY FUNDAMENTALS 28 .... FLYING OTTER WINERY 30 .... TWICE AS NICE 40 .... HAPPENINGS 49 .... WOODEN CARICATURES 36 .... SUMMER RECIPES

New Raisin Township winery

What's up with all the twins Eden Food's test kitchen

Floyd Rhadigan wood carvings

homefront

517.423.2174 800.832.6443 homefront@tecumsehherald.com www.homefronttecumseh.com P.O. Box 218, 110 E. Logan, Tecumseh, MI 49286

Published seasonally by Herald Publishing Company 15,000 Circulation

Mailed free of charge to homes & businesses in the Tecumseh School District and beyond. Distributed at shops & festivals all over S.E. Michigan and at State of Michigan Welcome Centers.
Publisher: Jim Lincoln Creative Director: Suzanne Hayes Production Artists: Hollie Smith, Koda Woodward. Contributors: Deane Erts, Mary Kay McCormick, Rebecca Peach, Deb Wuethrich. Advertising Sales Staff: Adrienne Ayers, John Beyer, Sue Kotts Garcia, Suzanne Hayes, and Carla Reed.
3

Classes at John W. Smith Park

804 N. Evans Street, Tecumseh, MI

www.TecumsehArts.org

Weve placed this paper clip in one of our advertisements in this magazine. Simply tell us which ad you found it in. Well draw from all correct entries on July 27, 2012, and give $100 to the lucky winner. To enter, send answers to The Tecumseh Herald, P.O. Box 218, Tecumseh, MI 49286, or submit online at www. homefronttecumseh.com

Find the Paperclip

PAPER CLIP FOUND

Gregory Mattson of Monroe found the paper clip on page 26 in the Great Ideas ad in the 2012 Spring issue of Homefront.

517.423.0000
July 9, 16, 23, 30 July 10, 11, 12 July 10, 17, 24, 31 July 11, 18, 25 July 12, 19, 26, Aug. 2 July 15 Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 Aug. 7 Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28 Aug. 14 Aug. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Aug. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Aug. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Aug. 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Appointment Only Appointment Only Appointment Only
4
Mon-Fri Mon-Fri Mon-Fri Mon-Fri Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Saturday Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Tues-Thurs Monday

3-D Explora tion Acrylic Pain ting

Intro to Pla y the Drum S ing et Sculptural C on in Metal cepts Hanging Bir t Calendarhday Flute P in Youngerlayu g for M sicians

Drawing

we offer a r t - in s p ir e d Birthd
adults

da y P a r t i e s
6:00-8:00 pm 9:30-11:30 am

THANK YOU
ABC Grow & Learn Children's Center ............ 43 Abstract Builders LLC ................................... 13 Adams Chiropractic ...................................... 16 Addison Granary .......................................... 40 Adrian Locksmith & Cyclery .......................... 43 Adrian Symphony Orchestra ......................... 31 Allegiance Health ......................................... 12 Angela's Angels ........................................... 48 ASC Orthotics & Prosthetics ......................... 31 August Company ............................................ 3 Back to the Roots ........................................ 46 Bailey's WaterCare ....................................... 24 Basil Boys .................................................... 29 Big Boy ........................................................ 24 Blissful Living ............................................... 43 Blush Boutique .............................................. 3 Boulevard Market ........................................ 27 Boutique de Joie ............................................ 9 British Tea Garden ......................................... 9 Brown & Sons Roofing .................................. 29 Brown Chiropractic ....................................... 43 Bumble's Dry Goods .................................... 47 Burdick & Associates, Inc. ............................ 10 Calder Dairy Farm .......................................... 5 Cambrian Assisted Living.............................. 29 Camp Sequoia .............................................. 50 Carpet on Wheels ......................................... 20 C'est la Vie................................................... 48 Chelsea Sounds & Sights .............................. 47 Chelsea Teddy Bear Company ....................... 46 Cherry Creek Winery..................................... 34 Citizens Gas Fuel Company ........................... 29 Classic Cabinets & Interiors .......................... 15 Clear Vision Windows .................................... 21 Coconuts Grille & Bar ................................... 21 Community Arts of Tecumseh ......................... 4 Companion Animal Clinic ............................... 32 Craig Spiegel Architect ................................. 31 Creative Outlet Ceramics .............................. 42 Croswell Opera House .................................. 34 Day in the Park Festival ............................... 27 Dependable Dane......................................... 40 Devils Lake Watersports............................... 40 Devils Lake Yacht Club ................................. 40 Dewey Lake Manor ....................................... 43 DG II .............................................................. 9 Doll Cottage ................................................. 42 Doug's Window Restoration .......................... 24 DP Window Fashions .................................... 28 D'Printer, Inc. ................................................. 6 Eden Foods .................................................. 21 Edward Surovell ........................................... 51 Evans Street Station .................................... 19 Eye Care Center ........................................... 21 Faust Sand & Gravel ..................................... 38 First Federal Bank ....................................... 39 Flying Otter Winery ....................................... 27 Gallery 1 ...................................................... 42 Glee Cake & Pastry....................................... 47 Golden Acres ................................................. 3 Great Ideas .................................................. 23 H & R Block ............................................ 22,44 Hacker Jewelers ............................................. 9 Hidden Lake Gardens ................................... 34 Hitching Post Antique Mall.............................. 7 International Diamond .................................... 7 Ivy Gallery .................................................... 43 Jerry's Pub .................................................. 28 Kelly, John J., MD, MPH ................................. 31 Kemner-Iott Agency...................................... 17 Kent J. Benham, DDS .................................... 36 Killarney Real Estate .................................... 29 Lady C ......................................................... 48 Lasting Image Day Spa & Salon .................... 35 Lenawee Conference & Visitors Bureau ........ 22 Lenawee County Fair .................................... 50 Lenawee Humane Society ............................... 9 Level One .................................................... 33 Lomonoco Health Care ................................. 43 Manchester Chamber of Commerce .............. 45 Manchester Chicken Broil ............................. 45 Manchester Community Fair ......................... 44 Manchester Community Schools ................... 44 Manchester Pharmacy .................................. 44 Martins Home Center ................................... 22 Maumee Bay ................................................ 48 McClennens Garden Center ........................... 44 Michigan Building Specialties ....................... 41 Midstar Home Builders LLC .......................... 23 Morgan Valley Farm ..................................... 42 Morleys Carpet ....................................... 18,35 Morton Buildings ........................................... 6 Musician's Den ............................................. 43 Naugle Heating & Plumbing .......................... 20 O'Hara Chrysler Dodge Jeep ......................... 38 Pentamere Winery ........................................ 36 Pheasant Brook Apartments ........................ 34 Promedica ................................................... 52 Raisin Valley Golf Club .................................. 27 Random Comforts .......................................... 9 Red Mill Pet Supplies ...................................... 5 Remax .......................................................... 39 Rock, Paper, Scissors ................................... 32 Sauder Village .............................................. 17 Schmidt, Harvey ........................................... 38 Seadin, Julie Flute Lessons ........................... 43 Seasons Salon & Spa ..................................... 3 Senorita's ................................................... 43 Silver Maples ............................................... 46 Skywalker Flying ............................................. 5 Southern Michigan Railroad ......................... 20 Stevenson Lumber ....................................... 19 Stone Mountain Family Fun Center ................. 5 Susie's Swipe the Grime ............................... 43 Tecumseh Camera ........................................ 18 Tecumseh Center for the Arts ......................... 5 Tecumseh DDA ............................................... 2 Tecumseh District Library ............................. 27 Tecumseh Family Dental ............................... 16 Tecumseh Insurance .................................... 31 Tecumseh Place ............................................. 6 Tecumseh Plywood ....................................... 17 Tecumseh Pool ............................................. 42 Tecumseh Veterinary Hospital ...................... 43 The Bead Box .............................................. 43 The Faded Rose ........................................... 43 Underwood Chevrolet ................................... 19 Weeden, Josephine C., DDS, MS, PC .............. 50 What A Find Consign for the Home ............... 20 Wild Iris .......................................................... 9 Woodstock Wine & Cheese ............................ 41 Worth Repeating .......................................... 45

grades 2-7 adults

6:00-8:00 pm 5:15-6:00 pm 7:00-9:00 pm 2:00-3:30 pm 3:00-3:45 pm 4:00-4:45 pm 9:00 am-2:00 pm 3:00-5:00 pm 6:30-8:00 pm 9:30-10:30 am 11:00 am 12:0 0 pm

grades 3 & up adults adults

Flute Playin g
Bookmakin Workshop g

middle school adults adults adults adults

No Chips on Papercraftin these Shoulders: g with Chip board

Portraits in Paint
Exploring P la and Anima nts ls

Senses Aliv e Puppets an d Dolls Drawing Ba sics

Private Pian o

grades 1-4 3 5 yrs

grades 5-7 grades 1-4

1:00-2:30 pm 1:30-2:30 pm

Violin Lesso n Voice Lesso n

Lessons

grades K-8th All Ages All ages

FOOD

summer
ne of the reasons for the success of businesses in Tecumseh is because they have become a destination for Lenawee County residents as well as those who live outside of the county. Unique and charming businesses, shops and restaurants give the community a certain panache that cant be found anywhere else. And Lenawee County residents know how fortunate they are to have these businesses in their own back yard. All these interesting businesses have their niche. Its a testament to how vibrant downtown Tecumseh is, said Evans Street Station General Manager and Co-owner Elizabeth Kennedy. A keystone business itself, Evans Street Station is a fire station-turned restaurant, located at 110 S. Evans St. Along with a relaxing and comfortable dining area, attentive and

taste of

n By Kerry Hamilton Smith n

pleasant service, and a distinct, delectable modern Mid-western menu, comes the promise that no corners are cut and everything is fresh so fresh that a good share of the ingredients are grown or made within a 60-mile radius some within 50 yards of the restaurants doors. This unique restaurant model supports and promotes local farmers and merchants. Whether its vegetables from Goetz Greenhouse, Prochaska Farms or Kapnick Orchards, honey from Groeb Farms, eggs from Pawsons Farms, rabbits, ducks, beef and pork from Back 40 Acres, Karens Place peaches or fresh mozzarella from Four Corners Creamery just across the parking lot, their products are featured on the menu. We buy as much as we can locally, said Executive Chef Alan Merhar, and then we supplement with killer ingredients. Chef Alan meets with Jonathan and Karlene Goetz of Goetz Greenhouse prior to each planting season to peruse seed books and choose vegetables he will feature on the menu. Because Goetz Greenhouse uses hoop houses, they are able to supply Chef Alan with fresh vegetables throughout the year. You may also see Chef Alan stopping at vegetable stands, foraging for ramps (wild leeks) or inquiring about which wild mushroom is in season and how plentiful it is. I was raised in Michigan so I have a pretty good grasp of whats available and when, Chef Alan said. If the US Department of Agriculture and the local health department would allow it (they dont), he would serve wild game. After all, it is where Chef Alan got a good measure of experience as a chef. He has worked in a kitchen since he was 14 years old. For many years he worked for a private hunt club as its chef. Hes also worked in the kitchen at many fine dining restaurants. Chef Alan is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University College of Culinary Arts, which at the time was located in Charleston, South Carolina. This connection accounts for the award-winning crab cakes on the menu. We change our menu on a seasonal basis, but it always includes Alans crab cakes and bacon wrapped chicken breasts. We may have a riot on our hands if we removed them from the menu, laughed Kennedy. One of the interesting features of Evans Street Station is its exhibition kitchen where visitors can watch their food being prepared. But behind the scenes Chef Alan creates made-from-scratch spaetzle and pasta and house-made ice cream. The staff shucks fresh peas and peels and blanches asparagus, among many other extraordinary but little known food prep details. For example, when someone orders anything on the menu that includes the cabernet reduction, they will be getting a sauce that takes a week to prepare. Starting with the stock from scratch, the cabernet is added and then reduced naturally. We cut no corners, Chef Alan emphasized. Its all in the We want details. Both Kennedy and Chef Alan have noticed that people have people to become much more interested in their food and the details of its come in and preparation. relax. Theres Its been so incredible to see how society has changed. They care deeply about how something their food is prepared; theyre much more here for educated, Kennedy said. With that in mind, everyone. Evans Street Station offers cooking classes with Chef Alan as the instructor. You can check the website at www.evansstreetstation.com for more information. Whether you are coming from out of town to visit Tecumseh or a local Lenawee County resident, you wont be alone. Sixty to seventy percent of our weekend business comes from Toledo, Ann Arbor, and Detroit, claimed Kennedy. But we are blessed to have a great local following throughout the week. We provide a very comfortable environment where theres no dress code. We want people to come in and relax. Theres something here for everyone. n
7

LODGING

come to rest
By Lynn Boughton

Whether you're thinking of a weekend away at the lake or looking for local lodging for relatives, our area has some of the most welcoming, locally-owned and operated inns around. Take a look....

n Chicago

Street Suite and The Loft

Pat Van Camp and Sue Laurinec are two energetic sisters on a mission. They fill a yearning for morning coffee and baked goods and satisfy lunch needs with sandwiches and soup at The Daily Grind located at 139 East Chicago Blvd. in downtown Tecumseh. Afterwards just step next door and stroll through their unique gift shop stocked with tempting treasures for the home. When some respite from eating and shopping is needed from their stores and other downtown retail establishments, just check into the Chicago Street Suite or The Loft apartment. Both are located right above the coffee and gift shops. Talk about having it all wrapped up in a neat package offering both historical ambiance and coffee house cool!
8

A Classic Pat and Sues successful coffee house, gift shop and both bed & breakfast spots are all housed in a classical 1800s brick building. With 10 high ceilings, original plaster walls and period furnishings, the Chicago Street Suite is spacious yet cozy and comfortable. Enter the large living and dining rooms and be instantly transported back in time. In the den, relax with a book or watch a good movie - then retreat to a restful bedroom. Anyone would thoroughly appreciate this beautiful suite that sleeps up to five. The Loft, which sleeps three, boasts large windows overlooking downtown Tecumseh, a sunny living room, eat-in kitchen and cheerful bedroom. Both apartments are available for nightly, weekly and extended stays. Its a welcoming place to call home during a visit to Tecumseh. The Perfect Package Once or twice a year, Pat and Sue hold workshops in The Suite, sharing entertainment ideas such as holiday tablescapes. They also provide ideas on how to creatively use many gourmet pantry items from their coffee shop such as artichoke relish and chutneys. Groups of gals reserve both suites for shopping getaways or to participate in Tecumseh Girls Night Out events. These suites are also great for baby and bridal showers as well as business gatherings. They are the perfect location for business conferences with plenty of room for meetings and presentations. Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and beverages or utilize The Daily Grinds catering service. All guests are provided with complimentary meal certificates to The Daily Grind. What a convenience to descend a flight of stairs and enjoy a delicious breakfast before exploring all the activities that Tecumseh offers. Chicago Street Suite and The Loft two names that are synonymous with a quality visit and convenient, charming amenities. Stop by The Daily Grind, give Pat and Sue a call at 517-424-8314, or check out their website at tecumsehdailygrind.com.

lunch
with a fab dessert. Take home fine china, cookbooks, loose teas, childrens tea sets, cards, gifts & British foods.

light

these fabulous finds...

This four year old male Jack Russell/ Mix would love to come home with you. 517.424.9453 Open Mon - Sat 101 E. Chicago Tecumseh shopthewildiris.com

live

can't

wild
about fashion

3,000 square feet of unique women's fashions, accessories, gifts and home decor.

TEA GARDEN

BRITISH

Lunch daily 11-3 Downtown Tecumseh 517.423.7873 thebritishpantry.com

Lenawee Humane Society 705 West Beecher St. Adrian lenhumanesoc.org 517.263.3463

casper

without

unique treasures
You never know what you'll take home from our spacious showroom. Quality new & used furniture, 20 % OFF new Symbol mattresses, accessories galore... 517.265.3545 2984 Treat Hwy Adrian Tues - Sat 10-5 Sun 10-2 Adjacent to Kohl's Madison Plaza US 223

out of the

blue
Comes great weekly specials. Check our website and facebook for details.

ive g Creat

treasure hunt
See our rare and beautiful collection of gems and estate jewelry
Clothier of Fine Apparel, Accessories, Jewelry & Gifts

Wall art nearly 3'wide, glowing fish lamps, nautical (washable) indoor-outdoor rugs .... everything for the cabin, cottage or home.

toetr war n f
ifts fo r the

DG II Gift Shoppe
9

110 E. Chicago Blvd. Tecumseh 517.423.6370 www.hackerjewelers.com

boutiquedejoie.com 517-673-8307 120 N. Main Adrian Tues Sat

Downtown Tecumseh 517.424.7463 Next door to the Daily Grind www.tecumsehdailygrind.com

10

Come to rest continued...

n Dewey

Lake Manor

n The

Inn on Evans

Interested in the opportunity to experience a weekend, week or even a month right in the middle of energetic, downtown Tecumseh? Look no further than The Inn on Evans located just above The Boulevard Market at 102 East Chicago Blvd. Erika and John Aylward are the proprietors and the entrepreneurial spirits behind both the Inn and the Market. The Aylwards passion is to please their customers palettes, as well as create a relaxing respite for their souls. They have succeeded with excellence. Customers are offered high quality specialty food items, wines, cheeses and chocolate at the The Boulevard Market. Just upstairs, dream fulfillment is found in the old world charm of The Inn on Evans. Relax and take it all in! The Inn boasts three, spacious and unique rooms which cover the entire second floor of an 1800s historical building. High ceilings and oversized windows bring the energy of the citys sidewalks right up to the room, which overlook the main shopping district allowing visitors to experience the city sights and sounds. Settle into the queen-sized bed and enjoy the fully equipped kitchen and modern amenities of A/C, cable TV and Wi-Fi. However, there is something here that is SO much more than relaxation. It is the unique feeling of nesting in the French Room, the Spanish Room, or the Italian Room all three emulating a distinct, European panache. It might also be the welcoming basket filled with wine, chips, salsa and some of The Markets handmade chocolates all to be enjoyed by guests as they settle in for their stay.

Concierge service at its finest Arriving this weekend with no time to coordinate the special amenities that will take a visit over the top? No worries another of Erikas passions is to be the perfect concierge. She has partnered with local businesses, allowing her to arrange any service imaginable. From spa packages at a tranquil salon to champagne and a scrumptious meal delivered to the door, an atmosphere will be created which is perfectly tailored to any celebration. Describing the communitys reaction when they opened the Inn a few years ago, Erika comments, This is what I love about Tecumseh. When local residents and business owners learned about The Inn on Evans, they told their friends and families where to stay when visiting Tecumseh and surrounding areas. She and John are very grateful for this type of hometown support. The Inn at Evans it truly IS the place to stay when planning the ultimate getaway from anniversaries to birthdays to honeymoons. To make reservations contact Erika and John at 517-423-6000 or visit http:/sites.google.com/site/innonevans/.

Perched high on a hill overlooking picturesque Dewey Lake is a majestic homestead whose history is steeped in Irish Hills legend. In the mid-1800s a New York surveyor, named Francis Albert Dewey, traveled to Michigan in search of the infamous Devils Lake. Prior to reaching his intended destination he came upon another body of water a serene lake surrounded by green hills and rich farmland. Dewey proclaimed, This is where I will build my home. He settled along the shoreline and gave the lake his name. Many years later Deweys son, Albert, built Dewey Lake Manor. The Manor still stands proudly on the hill just as it did 150 years ago when Albert raised his family and farmed this fertile land. Today, however, the Dewey home is a welcoming bed & breakfast owned by Barb and Joe Phillips, who, 22 years ago, discovered the magic of the Irish Hills and fell in love with this magnificent home along the way. And the Manors story continues. . . When Barb and Joe found the six-bedroom Manor and made it their own, they decided that it would have to help pay for itself. The couple proceeded to renovate, maximizing every inch of space. They tucked showers into former closets and even added a Jacuzzi tub in one room discreetly hidden behind a vintage screen. In keeping with the homes age and grandeur, these innkeepers were careful to preserve the integrity of the Manor. They graced the interior, filling it with period furnishings such as brass beds and beautiful wood pieces. Embellished with such a unique history and picture-perfect setting, it is no wonder that guests return year after year to this cozy, homeaway-from-home. Staying at the Manor Each of the six bedrooms boasts a full bath, cable TV and some are equipped with refrigerators. There is a full-service kitchen in

11

Baking pies with Kaitlin.

After open-heart surgery, simple things mean more.

Happiness to me is spending an afternoon baking pies with my daughter Kaitlin. I treasure our time together even more now after open-heart surgery. My care team at Allegiance Health not only fixed my heart, they cared for my family. They patiently answered questions and provided simple comforts like warm blankets, extra pillows and late-night snacks. Knowing what I might have lost makes me even more thankful for my family, my health and the simple things in life. Mary Koreen To learn more about the Allegiance Healths heart and vascular services, or to read more stories, visitAllegianceHealth.org/SimpleThings.
Women having a heart attack may have sudden weakness, indigestion, nausea, pain in the jaw or shoulder blades and a sense of doom. With these symptoms, call 9-1-1. For more life saving tips, visit AllegianceHealth.org and search Heart Tips.

EEO/AA Employer
12

Jackson, Michigan

Come to rest continued...

which to prepare beverages or heat up a snack. Visitors are warned not to stuff themselves during the evening, though, because Barb and Joe prepare a scrumptious breakfast each morning. Coffee is enjoyed at 8 a.m. in the spacious parlor where guests relax and appreciate the lakefront view from a large bay window. Then, usually around 9 a.m., delicious frittatas or waffles with sides of sausage and fresh fruit are served in the Victorian dining room. After the morning meal, visitors are encouraged to linger on the cozy glassenclosed porch which overlooks the hills and peaceful lake. They are invited to use the many amenities including two paddleboats, a canoe, grills, picnic tables, horseshoes and croquet sets. Wandering the 18 acres, guests may experience an aura of yesteryear a time of picnics by the shoreline, love songs and beautiful sunsets.

The Guests Dewey Lake Manor is the ideal location for weddings with its sprawling acreage, many bedrooms and lake amenities. Families gathering for reunions choose this location for the same reasons. Couples come for honeymoons and return on their anniversaries each year the guest list is endless and varied for this majestic Manor in the hills. The vista from the porches is breathtaking and tends to beckon and say, Sit - stay awhile leave cares and worries at the door and step back in time. Come to Dewey Lake Manor located at 11811 Laird Rd. in Brooklyn. Give Barb and Joe a call at 517-467-7122 or check their website at www.deweylakemanor.com. These two creative proprietors even share some of their favorite B&B recipes on this website Enjoy! n

13

EQUINE

Mokee
ll the talk in the equestrian world now is about Ill Have Another and his failed Triple Crown bid, but his misfortune underscores a flaw in thoroughbreds they are superb runners but they are fragile animals. They are bred to run and thats what they love to do. They dont love anything else, including humans. Arabian horses on the other hand are a breed apart, especially regarding the bond between horse and rider. Its a little-known fact that there is a race horse farm of international renown on a bucolic stretch of Sutton Road between Tecumseh and Britton. The only clue to the casual passerby is a stately brick home dating from 1865 enclosed by wrought-iron fencing that gives way to the more practical fencing of their eight paddocks where the Smokes, as they say, raise a few horses. But ask anyone who is associated with the horseracing scene and the name Mokee Arabians will elicit knowing smiles and nods. Kathy and Paul Smoke, the owners of the estate, have been breeding some of the finest racing steeds seen in the Arabian circuit for
14

Story by Deane Erts Photos by Hollie Smith

I love Arabians because they are so much friendlier than thoroughbreds

the past 25 years. Coveted by sheiks and kings, winners on the track and trail, the horses of Mokee Arabians are among the elite of equine athletes. The entrance to the Smokes estate, though they prefer the term farm, is easily recognized by the wooden sculpture of a rearing horse beside the driveway. It was carved by a Romanian immigrant entirely by chain saw, said Kathy. It used to be a beautiful old tree, but it died, and we had it turned into art. When the guy was carving it, there were cars lined up down the road to get a glimpse. The Smokes travel the world escorting their entries in various international races but were most recently at the Pimlico Special in Baltimore, an American thoroughbred horse race of 1mile and 2/16 or 9.5 furlongs in racing parlance. The accompanying race for Arabian horses included the Smokes entry Spin Doctor, who finished sixth in a race that drew 123,000 spectators. I love Arabians because they are so much friendlier than thoroughbreds, said Kathy. The horses were developed by the Arabs to love humans because they were often kept in their tents, so they had to be in close quarters with humans all of the time. We could have done better, said Paul of Spin Doctors finish in the Pimlico race, but I attribute the poor showing to operator error, referring to the jockey who rode the horse. His stable mate won, and we had beaten him before. Kathy is president of the Arabian Jockey Club (www.ArabianRacing.org), an organization dedicated to the promotion of the breed that is famed for its stamina, speed, heart, and intelligence. She explained that Arabians are the base stock from which thoroughbreds were developed and the rangier and more famous cousins

15

Arabians continued...

still retain a Y chromosome that they acquired from their Arabian ancestors. She said that there is not only a bond between Arabian owners and their horses, there is also a bond between Arabian owners, even competitors. The Smokes enthusiasm for their horses shows in the hard physical labor they both perform on their farm. Paul grows hay for the horses and helps maintain the seven pastures. Thats when he is not working at his day job as owner of the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge, an occupation that, needless to say, requires a lot of commuting and supervisory hours. Besides the local farm, the Smokes own and maintain a farm with five more pastures in Florida. The Smokes have an equally dedicated partner in the care of the horses in Samantha Jones of Adrian, who is the farm and barn manager. Jones enthusiasm for horses began in the local 4-H Club All-Around Equestrians. She owns a paint that she stables locally and has been around horses all of her life. The 81-acre farm did not come in its current immaculate condition. When we moved here it was basically corn stubble and brush, said Paul. Now, the landscaping is as well-manicured as the horses are well groomed. The main barn is luxurious by farm standards, with fresh hay and numerous stalls. It even contains a birthing area that is monitored by a television link with the house. We keep a close eye on the pregnant mothers, especially when they get close to their time, said Kathy. Currently, they are expecting a new foal from a brood mare that has an excellent blood line. The foal is due at the end of June. The most recent addition is a four-week old filly, who is as yet unnamed. Her mother is nicknamed Hilaritie. Right now Im leaning toward naming the foal Lady Ha Ha. That would be appropriate, I think, said Kathy. Mokee Arabians awards and accolades have been impressive: A Mokee gelding, Mr. Wright On, was chosen by the Office of the Racing Commissioner as the 2004 Michigan Bred Race Horse of the Year Darley Award nominee and Darley champion (Remarkable Man) four-year-old Colt of the Year in the USA Darley nominee Horse of the Year, again for Remarkable Man AJC Special Achievement Award to Kathy The Smokes were ranked tenth in the U.S. in earnings with 25 percent wins and 63 percent in-themoney first through fourth place, six runners in 27 races with seven wins, one second, three thirds, and sixth fourths. In all, Mokees win percentage was 25 percent and finishes in-the-money was 63 percent If you want to get into horses and horse racing, theres no better choice than an Arabian, said Kathy. Theyre 1/32 the cost of a Thoroughbred and a hundred times more affectionate. Mokee Arabians may be reached at 517.423.3609 or kthsmk@gmail.com.or www. mokeearabians.com. n

Paul Smoke

Mokee stable

Kathy Smoke
16

We Know Insurance. You Know Us.

Lets T . alk

Knowing IsLif Made Easier e

When it comes to protecting your most important assets and the ones you love, it pays to have a partner who can help you understand all of your options. As your local independent insurance agency, Kemner-Iott provides straightforward advice and all of the information you need to make smart decisions about your insurance coverage. Well even do the shopping for you, so you can rest easy knowing that youve got everything covered at the best possible price. A few minutes is all it takes to get started, so lets talk!

1390 W. Maumee Street, Adrian | 517-265-7000 | kemneriottagency.com

Personal & Business Insurance | Health Insurance | Life Insurance | Bonds | Financial Services

17

PHOTOGRAPHY

n Tecumseh's Doctor Kelly has a love affair with photography

nyone entering John Kelly, MD, MPHs waiting room on South Evans Street in Tecumseh cannot fail to notice the numerous photographs of animals, some exotic and some more commonplace, that grace the walls of his waiting room and halls. Not all of them have been taken by Dr. Kelly, but you wont be able to distinguish which were taken by him and which were taken by a professional. Neither the quality nor the locale will be a cue, as he has taken photographs in at least six foreign countries and several continents, so, the African veldt in the background does not necessarily signify a pro on a paid photo safari. The pictures on the walls serve as more than decoration, though. The tranquility of the animals portrayed cannot help but reassure an anxious patient waiting for an appointment. I love to capture images of animals in loving moments, said Dr. Kelly, like when a mother cheetah is caring for her baby or a pair of giraffes are nuzzling. Dr. Kelly said that his interest in photography began long before his interest in medicine. He was president of his high school photography club when he was growing up in the Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods area. We had a Crown Graphic 4x5 for club use that was a real hoot to use, he recalled of his high school experience, indirectly betraying his approximate age Crown Graphics were as common as cell phones among the photographic aficionados of the first half of the 20th

image
the
By Deane Erts

Capturing

Century. They were highly regarded by newspaper photographers for the clarity and resolution of the images they produced. The 4x5 designation referred to the size of the negatives that the cameras used. Unlike the film cameras that later photographers would favor that used roll film, 4x5 cameras used sheet film, and the numbers indicated the size of the negative in inches. Also, unlike more modern counterparts, the Crown Graphics could be loaded with only two negatives. They were a little awkward to use by todays standards, Dr. Kelly admitted. You pulled the curtain, took a shot, replaced the curtain, flipped the film holder and repeated. But, boy, did they take sharp photos. You could enlarge them forever. Dr. Kelly eventually succumbed to the ease and film capacity of a Nikon F Photomic and a Leica M4, two other classic instruments, which he said, unfortunately, were stolen when he was a medical student at Michigan State University. In the course of his love affair with photography, Dr. Kelly has had numerous photo-related jobs, including fashion assignments for such high-end stores as Jacobsens and Kay Baum. As with most avid photographers in the film era, Kelly began developing and printing photos in his own darkroom soon after he picked up his first camera. I still have a complete darkroom in my basement at home, but I havent used it in years, he said. I might get back into it when I have more time. Now its quicker and easier to use Photoshop. He was one of the first to embrace digital imagery, after the bugs were

18

19

Capturing the Image continued ... worked out. When they first came out, the images were pixelated and grainy, so I waited for the image quality to improve before I made the plunge. Now he shoots with a Pentax digital camera and appreciates the almost unlimited image capacity and ability to quickly review and delete images he is not satisfied with. With digital images its very important to have them stored in a backup system, he said. With film, you have built in storage security. With digital you dont, so you need to have them stored in more than one place. Dr. Kelly said that his photo safari trophies bring him a sense of peace when he pauses to enjoy his own work on the walls of his office. I had so much fun taking all of them, he said. Many of them were taken from an open Land Rover, which was a little unnerving at first, but in many places in South Africa, for instance, the cars have become such a regular sight for the animals that they just stroll past almost without a glance, so taking pictures of them in natural situations is easier. Not all of Dr. Kellys photos are of exotic animals; he enjoys forays to northern Michigan and looks forward to shooting at Shanty Creek during an upcoming medical convention, an excursion that he expects will include his two constant companions: his whippets Fiona and Fergus, who not only travel with him, but also go to work with him and add to the relaxed atmosphere of his medical office. I feel very lucky to have been able to go to all the places that I have been and capture the images I have, he said. Im privileged to have seen and photographed these rare animals. But Im also worried about their future. It is my fondest hope that future photographers will have the same opportunities that Ive had. n

20

300+ Dry Grocery Pantry Foods

Eden The Store

Pure & Purif ying

701 Tecumseh Road, Clinton | 517-456-7457 | info@edenfoods.com

2012 Eden Foods 06163

21

PROFILE

Raisin Township's Mitchell Park

OUTSIDE
Raisin Township trustee Deb Brousseau takes her many roles in stride
By Deb Wuethrich

THINK

Although Raisin Township Trustee Debra (Debbie) Brousseau didnt always live around here, she fell in love with her community and has taken on so many tasks within it that people sometimes ask, Which hat are you wearing today? Besides concluding a second term on the board in the charter township, Debbie is also Park Administrator at Mitchell Park and works with a six-member board. But to understand her versatility, one would have to back up a few years. Originally from the Bay City area, Debbie transferred to the GM plant in Adrian more than 30 years ago. At first, she lived on Bailey Drive in Raisin Township, then lived in Tecumseh for a couple of years. Before long, she was back in Raisin Township because she found that she really enjoyed living there. When I was living in Tecumseh, I took an EMT class, she recalls. I still remember the day I called Carl
22

Wagner, who was Raisin Township Fire Chief then [hes the Township Supervisor now], and Id just received my license as an EMT. He said, Come on down and well let you ride with us. Debbie got a bonus through that experience she met her husband, Alan, who was her captain. She worked as an EMT, then added to her skills and became an EMT specialist, working with the advanced ambulance service. From there, I became interested in the fire department side of things because I had this sense that I was useless at certain types of calls, Debbie said. Again, she talked to her friend, Carl Wagner, and they discussed the fact that there were no certified full-time female firefighters at that time. But he and the department were very encouraging, very supportive, and I took more classes and ended up being the first female certified firefighter in the department, she said. Later on, I had the distinct honor of becoming the first female captain they ever

ParkFestivalHwy. Mitchell Park Gady Rd. at Green

Kids Games Inflatables Martial Arts Demos Stage Coach Rides And More!

Day

in th e

had on the fire department. There have been a couple others since then. Debbie took some time off her many activities around the time her boys were getting ready to graduate from high school, but soon, she realized she still wanted to do something for the community. She was then appointed to the Raisin Township Planning Commission and served as Secretary of that board. After doing that for a couple years, there was an opening for a Trustee on the Raisin Township Board. I pursued that along with another candidate, and lost it by the flip of a coin that time, she said, laughing as she remembered it. But the next time, I became a Trustee. As a trustee, Debbie put on an extra hat and served as the boards representative to the park board where she learned about the various tasks to be done there. She forged fullsteam ahead with her various duties, and then some. "I was retired with time on my hands and had the time to get back into it, and Im just a firm believer you should be a part of where you live. You should know your neighbors and do things together and be excited about where you live, she said. She takes part in the townships Dump Day and has spent time with Kitty Wagner, Carls wife, picking up trash long the countys roadways. I live here; I dont want it to be trashy, she said. When there was an unexpected opening as park administrator after Harry Withrow left, Debbie stepped in as interim. She was later selected from approximately eight candidates to continue the position full-time. They gave me a great opportunity because I love doing what I do here, she said. I love being outside, especially with the gardening and the flowers. Debbie is an avid gardener and the Adrian Garden Club named her home yard Garden of the Month last year, and she has brought transplants from home to Mitchell Park. Along with part-time employees Sandy LaVeck and Barry Hall, and workers performing community service, Debbie is not afraid to get her hands dirty and tends gardens, helps weed whack, picks up tree branches, and keeps the shelters and bathrooms clean, donning a few more hats as the occasion warrants. Another one was required when she

accepted the park administrator post. The township had made some changes to the position, and Cemetery Sexton came with the territory, Debbie said. Thats definitely been a learning experience. The township maintains four cemeteries, most of them older. One on Sutton Road is now closed except to individuals who still have burial plots purchased there, but all require maintenance and upkeep, which she oversees, along with working with professionals when burial arrangements are required. In her primary role as park administrator at Mitchell Park, one can see how Debbie puts an extra element of care into her work. Even as she drives around on her Gator, shell stop and pick up branches or debris. I just saw this park as a diamond in the rough out here, said Debbie, who was the driving force behind such events as the annual Day in the Park Festival. The park is also host to Tecumseh sporting events such as Tecumseh Area Little League and Tecumseh Area Soccer. One thing she does point out, however, is that Mitchell Park is a Raisin Township entity. Someone asked me why we didnt paint the park orange and black, she said. Its because the park belongs to Raisin Township, its not a Tecumseh park. While Im glad to have the Tecumseh teams here, I also want this to be a clean, fun place for residents to bring their families for a picnic. Its Raisin Township taxpayers that support this park and make it nice for everybody. Visitors will note that Raisin Township is also listed on the parks signs now. As to the future, Debbie still has her eye on other possibilities. It is her opinion that the Raisin Township Community Center is underutilized. In her dreams, it could be another diamond in the rough, a place for kids to go for fun activities. When I was a kid I remember going to a park and paying a dollar and doing all kinds of activities, she said. Kids should be able to do that now. What it would take, though, is extra manpower. Wed need volunteers. Maybe someday. n
23

DESIGN

water gardens
By Rebecca Peach
hen approaching David and Helen Squires Macon home, Helens flower garden beckons visitors to enter and discover what lies along the brick pathways beyond the rose arbor. The gentle sound of cascading water welcomes visitors into the garden. A small pond and fountain surrounded by flora captures the eye, with a pathway crossing over the pond. It is truly a welcoming sight, and one of the highlights of the flower garden. Five years ago, Helen decided it was time to build her long time dream garden, I waited 50 years for this garden, she explained. Grandma had a fountain. It made the garden seem peaceful. Helen said she wasnt sure a pond would be possible because they have a well for a water source. For guidance Helen turned to Smith Nursery & Landscaping, where they often purchased their plants and shrubs. Eric Smith of Smith Nursery & Landscaping assured Helen a water feature could be installed as a focal point easier then she had imagined. Smith Nursery provided layout design and assisted Helen in the selection of plants and took on the massive job of creating the garden. Helen praises Smith Nurserys work making the garden, It wouldnt be the same without their input and help. The family enjoys the pond, fountain and garden area on a daily basis. Helen described the maintenance of the pond as minimal once it is set up in the spring. The fountain and pond are a little more work, but the enjoyment is worth the effort. The pond and fountain bring a whole different level of peace to the garden, she said. Jan Smith, owner of Smith Nursery & Landscaping commented, Water features are always a special feature to add to any landscape. They add so much, from a simple fountain to a large pond. Jan explained that no two water features are truly identical. Just use your imagination, and they can help make it happen. We work with you to make sure it fits your life-style and level of commitment. Bill and Cathy Rutz of Tecumseh would agree that a water feature adds peace and so much more to home landscaping. While the Rutzs were living in Louisville, KY, they looked for a large pot to make a water garden. At the time the couple was contemplating a move to Tecumseh, to be closer to family. When we found that pot, I knew it would look best planted in Michigan. The water vessel means a great deal to me, that pot brought us home, Cathy said. The Rutzs settled into their home and soon approached Hampshire Farm Landscaping of Tecumseh to help them install the water feature. Cathy said, That simple water feature does so much, gives us peace and tranquility. Entering the Rutz side yard, a welcome comes from the small fountain gently bubbling and spilling over the sides of the vessel. Cathy said, Listening to water is a great healer, both mentally and emotionally. It is refreshing, and gives you peace. Kevin Graves, owner of Hampshire Farm Landscaping, assisted Cathy in location and set up of the fountain and also designed a huge vegetable-flower garden. A
24

Far Left: Squires ponds Photo submitted

Top right; The Rutz fountain Left: Hampshire Farms water vessel Bottom: Smith Landscaping fountain Photos by Rebecca Peach

water feature truly becomes a focal part of your yard, from a simple fountain to a large ornamental pond, Kevin explained. When you add water, you open up a whole new type of gardening, new plants and even koi or goldfish. Hampshire Farm Landscaping offers an extensive water garden selection of vessels, pots, fountains and fountain kits, also plants, fish and supplies for the do-it-yourselfer or for those seeking professional installation. They also carry Airmax for pond management. Kevin and Hampshire Farm horticulturist, designer Peter White, have designed and installed water features from a single pot-fountain, pond-less waterfalls to working with two-acre ponds. Recently Hampshire Farm worked on a large project at Michigan International Speedway. Along with F & S Landscaping and Slusarski Excavating, they created a 40-foot waterfall with extensive landscaping for the new RV area around turns three and four at the racetrack. In the beginning, water features, especially ponds, are a bit of work. The reason, according to Kevin, is because whether setting up a small fountain or a larger pond, an eco-system must be created. Kevin said, Once you establish the eco-system, the maintenance drops and its easy to maintain, less time consuming. Aeration is one of the key elements of any water feature. With proper movement, there is no need to worry about mosquitoes. Incorporating koi or goldfish also takes care of those issues. In many ponds, the fish can stay in the water year round. Hampshire Farm Landscaping can assist with existing pond issues, whether spring fed or man-made ponds. Hampshire Farm Landscaping also carries a complete line of do-it-yourself kits for building a fountain, pond or waterfall. Water features are not limited to what you see in a kit, Graves said. Water features truly are an artistic form, from your dream or vision to the complete project. From simple fountains to extensive lighted waterfalls and streams, water gardening can bring peace and tranquility to any time spent within hearing distance of the bubbling, flowing waters. Its like having a bit of paradise in your own backyard. n

25

LEISURE

familyfundamentals
come first at Stone Mountain Family Fun Center
By Deb Wuethrich

Playing a round of miniature golf at The Stone Mountain Family Fun Center can feel like a getaway, even if you only have a couple hours available.
Its so peaceful out there on the course that I like to be out there, even if Im weeding, said Amy DeJonghe, who owns and operates the facility, along with her husband, Mike. She said the sound of the waterfalls, the old-fashioned waterwheel and being in the natural setting among the landscaped plants is soothing. As soon as you cross that bridge, its like stepping into another world or in the wilderness somewhere. People have even asked them if they pipe in the croaking of the frogs and other nature sounds. We dont, said Amy. That sound comes from little tiny frogs that live in our ponds. There are also sounds of crickets and other elements of nature one would find in a natural outdoor setting. The course is kept clean, however, with regular maintenance and upkeep, including draining the ponds periodically and scrubbing sides where algae builds up. The DeJonghes first opened their Family Frosty ice cream shop at 3171 W. Russell Road in Tecumseh 12 years ago. They built the Stone Mountain golf course in 2006, largely on their own, with the help of their children and extended family members. Ill never forget how everyone in our family was out there helping us build it, and we were so blessed to have them, said Amy. A company installed the mountain and carpeted the greens, but Amy said Mike built most everything else and poured the concrete. And we did the landscaping as well and much of that has grown up so nicely that weve had to transplant some of it. Three years ago, the family took ownership of the restaurant on-site and opened the Stone Mountain Pizzeria. We are a family fun complex, and a lot of people who come here will come to play a round of golf and also stay for pizza or ice cream afterward, said Amy. We can accommodate groups on the course with a continuous flow

Ill never forget how everyone in our family was out there helping us build it, and we were so blessed to have them

Photo by Deb Wuethrich 26

of play, and get summer camp groups, school groups and even company groups when theyre having a teambuilding day. The course is also handicapped accessible on its lower level so people with wheelchairs can play, said Amy. Everybody is entitled to have some fun. Last year, the DeJonghes took part in a groupon deal (coupons for groups) and offered special deals that drew people to the community from places such as Stockbridge, Canton, Ann Arbor and Toledo. People would say things like, We never knew this was here, and say that they were going to tell their friends, said Amy. We sold over 300 groupons. This year Stone Mountain is offering a VIP card when a patron comes to play, and subsequent visits are $5 for the rest of the season. Prices currently are $7.50 for adults to play golf, $6.50 for seniors; $5.50 for age 12 and under, and kids age three and under are free. This is very much a family atmosphere and all our employees know that and treat people very professionally, said Amy. I love working with people every day and I love seeing little kids smile. When you put ice cream and golf together, people are happy and I love seeing that. We like to say the family that plays together, stays together. Stone Mountain summer hours are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 10 p.m. n

27

WINE

WINERY
Flying Otter
Story and Photos by Deane Erts
ucked away on 55 rural acres on Chase Road between Tecumseh and Adrian is one of Michigans newest vineyard/winery combinations. Flying Otter Vineyard and Winery officially opened last November, but the young operation has already made a splash among oenophiles. Flying Otter recently garnered three medals from the prestigious Tasters Guild a silver medal for its Noiret and bronzes for its Northern Lights and Starboard. Starboard captured another bronze at the Great Lakes Great Wine competition, along with bronzes for the Riesling and a variety the Flying Otter vintner calls Cherry Pie. At first, the name of the operation sounds utterly whimsical, but Bob Utter, who owns the vineyard/winery with wife Linda and son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Sarah, chose the name based on family heritage. Utter is
28

Swedish for otter, Bob explained, and the other part of the name comes from the fact that I love to fly. The Utters have been producing wine from their vineyard since 2005, but decided to go public only recently. It is truly a family operation with Bob managing the vineyard and Linda, Jeff, and Sarah managing the winery. The division of labor is not that distinct, however. We help each other out in whatever area or whatever season, Linda said. Its a labor of love, so its a lot of work but its something we wanted to do and still enjoy doing it. The Utters moved here from Texas in 1996 when Bob accepted a position as vice president of engineering for Tecumseh Products, where he worked until 1999. Currently, he runs his own engineering consulting service with clients worldwide, who often demand his expertise on-site which requires a good deal of travel. Im basically working two full-time jobs between consulting and the vineyard, said Bob. Fortunately, I find the work in the vineyard and the winery relaxing, so I can handle them both. Bob and Linda do more than dabble in winemaking: this is no basement-andgarage operation. There is a building separate from the house for the winery/tasting room/laboratory. A lot of people are surprised to find out that there is a lot of lab work required in winemaking, said Bob. We need to adhere to all health and safety regulations and we have to maintain quality and consistency, so its more than a matter of subjective taste of the final product, although that is the primary concern of the customer. The marketing is equally sophisticated with a website, blogs on winemaking by Bob, and YouTube clips. The Utters have planted a total of 2,000 vines, so far, of a variety of grape known commonly as cold-hardy hybrids, a species that was developed for climates like Michigans. Last year Flying Otter produced 10,000 bottles of wine and each of those bottles was handled several times by one or more of the family members. The bottles are beginning to appear in local stores and markets, but much of the sales are online to customers in Michigan. Since shipping expenses decrease with quantity, the Utters recommend ordering more than one bottle and purchases may be made by phone

or on-line (see below). For those wishing to stop by in person, hours are flexible, so an advance phone call is recommended. Business has been good for small vineyard/wineries in general and Flying Otter in particular, so the Utters have added more vines this spring, but, like other area farmers, they are holding their breath to see what the unusual weather that we have been experiencing will do to this years crop. We had days of 80-degree weather in March, and the vines responded like it was spring, said Bob, and then the temperature plummeted, so were crossing our fingers that the grapes will be as good as last season. The vineyard is divided between red grapes and white grapes and the neatly spaced rows stretching north to south make for a very lovely vista, a fact that is not overlooked by the Utters. Some day we hope to build a pavilion overlooking the vineyard where our customers can enjoy a taste of wine while they are looking at the vines where it came from, said Linda. But for the short term, we are hoping to have our daughters wedding in the vineyard this summer. The Utters have landed a spot on the popular southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail, which is a seasonal trek taken by participants that wends its way from vineyard to vineyard for tastes Its a labor of from the fruit of the vine and from love, so its a local participating lot of work but restaurants. its something Tickets are available at www. we wanted to pioneerwinetrail. com and do and still local wineries enjoy doing it on the tour, besides Flying Otter, include Tecumsehs Pentamere Winery, Blissfields J. Trees Cellars, and Brooklyns Cherry Creek Cellars. The vintners at Flying Otter like to think that their business converts sunshine into grapes and they, in turn, distill their grapes into sunshine in a bottle to be enjoyed with good food and good friends. Flying Otter Vineyard and Winery is open Saturdays and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. or by appointment and is located at 3402 Chase Rd., 877.876.5580 x101, www.flyingotter.com, or bob@flyingotter.com. n
29

FAMILY

Twice Nice
as
by DEB WUETHRICH
s then Har vey twin

Schmidt twins now

Harvey twins now

Gnodtke twins then Gnodtke twins now

Schmidt twins then

f it seems there are more twins among us than in earlier days, thats because its true. Statistics show one in every 30 babies now born in the U.S. is a twin compared with one in every 53 in 1980. One of the reasons given for the increasing number of multiple births is the wider use of fertility enhancing therapies including assisted reproductive technologies and ovulation stimulation medications. The other is older maternal age, especially mothers over 30, when the chance of having twins increases. Several sets of twins are, or have been, Tecumseh residents over the years and Homefront caught up with a few to talk about the experience, the challenges and the joys of raising or being a twin. One thing that stood out with respondents was that having twins doesnt translate to duplicate personalities. In fact, while most twins will share a special bond and protectiveness toward one another, personalities are likely to be totally different.

Casey and Chelsea Harvey

The Harvey girls, fraternal twins who still share a close resemblance, are now 22 years old and their faces may be familiar to patrons of The Daily Grind, owned by their mother, Sue Harvey-Laurinec and her sister, Pat Van Camp. Their father is George Harvey. Sue said she was over 30 and rearing two older daughters, Stacy, 14, and Shaun, 10, when she learned she was pregnant again. I was just getting over the shock of having another baby when an ultrasound showed two heartbeats, Sue said. Though her dad was a twin, she said it was a complete surprise. Casey and Chelsea were preemies, born six weeks early and did experience some complications such as underdeveloped lungs and one had some kidney issues. When they came home, Sue said the hardest part was the age difference with the older girls at an age where activities were increasing. They were in sports and competing in gymnastics and we were hauling two preemie
30

babies to events, she said. The family also went from two incomes and two children to one income with four children so Sue could take care of the babies. Im glad the twins came after the others and not first because that gave me a little preparation. While Casey and Chelsea are protective of each other, personality traits are quite different. Casey is very take-charge, and Chelsea is more laid-back, more of a follower, said Sue. Pat said her niece Casey tends to be more competitive and tells a story of how Chelsea is taller than Casey, and when they were little girls visiting her in North Carolina, Pat told Casey that Chelsea slept more and thats when people grow. Later I found Casey crying because Chelsea was already asleep, Pat said. She said, Chelsea is growing again and shell be even taller than me! Sue recalls another twin challenge when an older sister took the girls for a walk in the wagon. They each had squishy bears and one dumped out somewhere and we couldnt find it, Sue recalled. That was a real issue. I had to go get another bear from a Northville gift shop to settle that issue because those girls slept with those bears and took them everywhere. At Tecumseh High School in 2008, the Harvey twins were one set of four twins on the girls cross-country team during their senior year. They were pretty close with then freshmen Janessa and Erica Steuwe, sophomores Bailey and Annie Dunn, and juniors Jordan and Samantha Harrison. The twins are facing new challenges with the separation that adult lives can bring. Casey is attending Grand Valley State studying occupational therapy and Chelsea recently moved to St. Louis, Missouri, to become a massage therapist. Sue said she thinks its hitting Casey especially hard that her sister has moved so far away. I think theres definitely some twin separation going on there, Sue said.

31

Twins continued...

Grant and Lillian (Lily) Gnodtke

Brent and Kelly Gnodtkes twins, a boy, Grant, and a girl, Lillian (Lily), came into the world in a less conventional way, but one that is helping couples have children. After several attempts with various fertility treatments, Kelly was medically unable to conceive and carry a baby. I never imagined my life not being a mother, but with more health complications, I wasnt able to carry, said Kelly, a Tecumseh Middle School teacher. Wed considered adopting at first. Id never heard of surrogacy, but we learned more about it and ultimately went to a reputable clinic in Denver, Colorado. Using Brents sperm and Kellys eggs, two embryos were planted and carried by a surrogate mother. The babies, who will be five in December, were three weeks early and spent a little time in a neo-natal intensive care unit. Brent recalls that he and Kelly had some catch-up to do with bonding with the babies since that was not possible during the pregnancy. That time was a big whirlwind, he said, and remembers Kellys aunt, a midwife, came to help. There were definitely some sleepless nights. It was pretty much a learn as you go experience. Now divorced, the Gnodkes co-parent the children 50-50. Both describe Lily as girly girl and Grant as all boy. Lily loves to dress up, play Barbies and go to dance class, and Grant likes outdoor things like fishing, riding bike, and he just finished his first season of T-ball, said their dad. They play well and entertain each other, but there are also brothersister challenges of not wanting to share sometimes, but overall they listen well. Both parents say Lily has a mothering instinct, with Brent calling her his little Mother Hubbard, and Kelly a momma bird. Both attend preschool in the St. Joseph Montessori program. Brent admits there are sometimes single-parent challenges when the twins are with him. Theres just one of me and two of them, he said. Kelly sees the same thing. Having two kids the same age, they can still go different directions and just managing that can be difficult at times. Kelly sees the twin bond sometimes when the children have been apart. With having a boy and a girl I wondered if theyd share such a bond, but if one has been at Grandmas or one stayed home sick from preschool, theyll come running through the door and hug each other with Oh, I missed you. They definitely take care of each other. Kelly says in rearing twins, as with any parenting, structure is really important. Some nights when they were babies, wed go through 18 bottles so being organized is very important, she said. I think generally just being patient and fair with them is something else that works.
32

The most important thing is to find what works best within your own family dynamic, said Brent. You just run with that and you can always adjust. Kim said now that the twins are getting older, new challenges include juggling their different activities and supporting them both. Grant and Lily bring me so many smiles and laughs, she said. I am so thankful for those little miracles.

Kathryn (Katy) and Claire Schmidt

Katy and Claire Schmidt, daughters of Kim and Alan Schmidt, are fraternal twins who will turn five on July 25. Kim said there were twins in the family, and shed also undergone some fertility treatments. The Schmidts also have a daughter Evelyn (Evie) who will be seven in October. Because we were going through fertility treatments, wed had more frequent ultrasounds. So when they heard two heartbeats, we were shocked but in the back of our minds wed known there was that possibility, Kim said. She remembers oddly enough, thinking about the fact that their house was only 720 square feet and being a little nervous about that. I also remember my husband squeezing my hand a little harder that day each time he saw a heartbeat on the monitor, she said. Born three weeks early due to Moms high blood pressure, the girls have dressed alike for as long as I can get away with it, Kim said. Sometimes people stop and ask if the girls are triplets because Evie is a little small for her age. One piece of advice on having twins that Kim remembers and found to be true was to get the babies on a similar feeding schedule. Otherwise youll never get any sleep, which can be hard enough with one baby, she said. I was pretty lucky that we were able to do that and also to have help from a supportive husband and both our parents who live nearby. Kim recalls, especially with twins, the little planned celebrations. We said we were going to have a party when we reached milestones like no more bottles and no more diapers. It was hard with three in diapers because Evie was still in them since they were only 21 months apart. Katy and Claire just graduated from preschool, another milestone. Its sad to see my babies going on to start their school careers but they are a lot of fun and its fun to watch them grow and see their personalities develop, she said. People ask if they have a twin language, and they really dont but they do play well together and look out for each other. Claire is more strong-willed but more shy and Katy is more easygoing and outgoing. They participate in gymnastics, dance and soccer each taking to her own interests. Both their laughs are infectious and we love to get them laughing, Kim said. Kims off-the-cuff advice to other parents of twins would be to allow for individual personalities to develop, even if they do dress alike for a time. My best advice to any parent is to enjoy every minute! Every moment with them is a blessing, she said. Its a joy to see them interact and a joy to watch them. They are so much fun.

My best advice to any parent is to enjoy every minute!

33

34

Twins continued...

Ter ry and Sherri Hand

Terry Hand
Sherri & Joe Tuckey

Sherri Tuckey and Terry Hand

Sherri Tuckey, part of the family-owned Big Boy Restaurant team, is also a twin. She and her brother, Terry, who lives in Lohja, Finland, with his wife, Heidi, will turn 50 July 10. We havent really celebrated a birthday together since we were 23, Sherri said. Terry served in the military for 20 years and met his Finnish wife when he was on duty at the Russian Embassy. Four years ago, he retired and moved to Finland. Later this summer, Sherri and her husband, Tecumseh Fire Chief Joe Tuckey, are planning a trip to Finland to celebrate the twins 50th birthday, Joe and Sherris 30th wedding anniversary, and Terry and Heidis 20th anniversary. Both are graduates of Tecumseh High School, and Sherri said Terry is the creative one. He can build anything, like hes building his own house in Finland, she said. Im the more responsible one, Sherri added. He grew into it, but it took longer than me. Maybe its because I married 10 years earlier than he did, or maybe its just one way were different, but I helped him a lot with school work and was more like a second mom to him. She said similarities include both being laid back but hardworking. And I always knew he had my back if I needed him, Sherri said. While they didnt necessarily hang out with the same kids while growing up, theres definitely a connection between them a twin bond. Even if weve been apart, like now, when we havent seen each other in seven years, Sherri said, when we get together, it will be like we just saw each other yesterday. We dont feel like strangers. Ever. Weve just always gotten along that way.

Mayor Richard Johnson. We found out we were having twins pretty early in the pregnancy, and it took a couple months for the shock to wear off, said Beth. She said everything is looking good and the twins are measuring at where they should be. Im no expert, but Im told twins come on an average at 36 weeks, she said, adding that parents expecting twins are advised to prepare things in advance as much as possible. We had a baby shower early, and both cribs are assembled, she said. Clothes are washed and put away, so the nursery is coming together. Beth said she thinks the twins are doing some pre-prep work in advance of their birth since she now wakes up at odd hours. Its been pretty neat listening to people whove come out of the woodwork to offer me advice for raising twins, she said. A friend connected her to a mother Beth had never met who has twin girls. Were connected on Facebook and weve private messaged. Shes sent quite a few tips that make a lot of sense. At least in theory, Beth said, in an information age, people can also use the Internet to find out what they need to know including parenting advice. There is one thing from Beths perspective that other parents of twins might agree on even as they face the challenges of double everything from diapers to bottles. We like to think were efficient, Beth said. One eightmonth pregnancy, two babies done! n

Soon-to-be Kennedy Twins

Tecumseh appears to be continuing its tradition of bringing twins into the community, keeping up with the increasing statistics. Steve and Beth Kennedy are expecting twins, a girl and a boy, their first children, at the end of July. Beth is co-owner of Evans Street Station and daughter of Tecumseh

35

RECIPES

SUMMER RECIPES
By MARY KAY McCORMICK

TASTY
E D E N F O O D S O F F E R S
den Foods, Inc. is committed to providing not only quality natural and organic food to consumers, but also to making food preparation simple and easy. Wendy Esko, Marketing Assistant in Research and Development, is responsible for the creation of healthy recipes using Edens natural food products. With her 40-plus years of experience, Esko creates meal ideas for Eden Foods customers. On the website Esko walks customers through recipes from start to finish. I get my ideas from my experience, said Esko. Ive been cooking natural foods for almost 42 years. Inspiration comes to Esko in a variety of ways including coworkers, magazines, cookbooks and online sources. Esko then crafts ideas she finds into something new and different. Although Esko pays attention to food trends, she prefers to come up with unique finds for Eden Foods. We change it up all the time, Esko said. Right now quinoa is very popular, so we have a lot of recipes online that weve just been adding to constantly. Quinoa (prounounced keen-wah) is a whole grain as well as a complete protein. The red quinoa

Wendy Esko

is a personal favorite of Eskos, who appreciates the versatility of quinoa, whether it is red or white. Currently, Eden Foods offers quinoa as a whole grain, in flour form, as part of pasta, and in the black bean chili. The website has 48 different recipes that feature this healthy and good tasting food. A recent ad campaign for Eden Foods focuses on whole grains, so Esko created two recipes: sushi using quinoa instead of rice, and a burger using red quinoa mixed with brown rice. Designers and a photographer work with Esko during the food preparation to photograph the process and finished product so the photos can be placed online, on Twitter and in the iPhone app. We do a cooking session here once a week, Esko said. It usually lasts the entire day. Although cooking is a hands-on process, there is also a high-tech quality for Esko as well. After a recipe is perfected in the kitchen, she works with a computer program to enter the ingredients and the cooking process, and the program then automatically provides the nutritional information for the recipe. Then I transfer the recipe to another database our IT department built, and that recipe is launched live on the website, said Esko. We have over 1,100 recipes currently on the web. When I first came here there were less than 200, and none of them had photographs, she added. The mix of cooking and technology was not something Esko would have ever imagined when she started working with whole foods 40 years ago. Before working with Eden Foods,

36

Eskos experience with computers was only to type up information, like the two cookbooks she had published. I still dont have really good skills, she said with a laugh but Im a lot better than I was when I started 12 years ago. With the immediate access of new recipes on Twitter and the Eden Foods website, feedback from fans and followers of Eden Foods happens quickly. The current popularity of Pinterest, a social media bulletin board has also had a positive effect on Eden Foods. A lot of our recipes are getting repinned on there. Were getting a lot of exposure, said Jonathan Wilson, Media Manager for Eden Foods. The increased interest in eating and preparing natural foods has increased since Esko first started eating that way herself in 1970. Esko laughed as she remembered how people perceived those interested in natural foods as hippies. It really has blossomed, she said. You mention brown rice now and people know what it is. Theyre much more accepting of natural foods. Esko sees the internet, word of mouth discussions about food, and the interest people have in eating a healthier diet are reasons for the increased acceptance and excitement about natural foods. Esko said 90% of the Eden Food recipes meet the criteria for vegan cooking. For summertime meals Esko, who doesnt eat meat, likes grilled vegetables, tofu and tempe hot off the grill. Salads are also perfect for the summer as well, including bean salads. In addition to her creative cooking and recipe creation, Esko also develops prepared food product lines for Eden Foods. The four varieties of chili with whole grains and 11 varieties of rice and beans are two product lines she developed from start to finish. It generally takes two years for a food to go from an idea in Eskos mind to rolling off the production line in Eden Foods BPA-free cans. Once she comes up with a recipe and prepares it in the kitchen, Esko pressurecooks the food to test how it will taste after a canning process. Although her kitchen canning method is slightly different than the method used by the Eden Foods canning factory, it gives her an idea of what works in the recipe and what needs to be changed.

The new storefront in Clinton has been very popular and is an easy way for area residents to have immediate access to all of the natural food products created by Eden Foods. There also is a cost savings with buying direct from the store and not online or at another retailer. With Edens healthy food and Eskos creative recipes, cooking natural

foods is simple and delicious. Recipes and information about Edens suppliers and facilities can be found online at edenfoods.com. The Eden Foods store is located at 701 Tecumseh Road in Clinton. For more information call 888 424-EDEN (3336). n

Tempeh Reuben
Serves 4 Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 20 minutes 1 pound organic tempeh 2 Tbsp Eden Organic Safflower Oil 2 cups water, for cooking tempeh 1 tsp Eden Shoyu Soy Sauce 1/2 cup Eden Organic Sauerkraut 1/4 cup any Eden Organic Mustard 4 whole lettuce leaves 1/4 cup alfalfa sprouts 1 medium organic tomato, sliced 8 slices whole grain bread Directions: Heat oil in a skillet. Add tempeh (do not cut). Brown both sides for 3 to 4 minutes. Add water to cover tempeh. Add shoyu, cover the skillet. Simmer 15 minutes. Remove cover and cook, over a high flame, until all liquid is gone. Remove tempeh and slice into strips. Place several slices of tempeh on each sandwich. Spread equal amounts of mustard on the other bread slices. Place equal amounts of sauerkraut, lettuce, sprouts and tomato on each sandwich. Serve.

Peach Vanilla Smoothie

Serves 2 Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 0 minutes 2 1/2 cups peaches, sliced 2 cups ice cubes, about 10 2 cup Vanilla Edensoy Extra Vanilla Edensoy 1 Tbsp organic maple syrup Directions: Place all ingredients in a blender and pulse until thick and creamy. Pour into two tall glasses.

Sauerkraut Guacamole
Serves 8 Prep Time 10 minutes Cook Time 0 minutes 2 avocados, pitted and peeled 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup Eden Organic Sauerkraut 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 small organic tomato, diced 1 pinch Eden Sea Salt, optional Directions: Place garlic, avocado, lemon juice and sea salt in a small mixing bowl. Mash until smooth with a fork or potato masher. Mix in the sauerkraut and tomato. Place in a serving bowl and serve with any EDEN Chips or Crackers, or with your favorite organic corn chips, crackers or raw vegetables.

Udon with Basil Pine Nut Pesto

Serves 4 Prep Time 10 minutes Cook Time 15 minutes 1 package Eden Organic Kamut Udon or any Eden Organic or Traditional Udon Pesto Sauce 2 Tbsp Eden Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 Tbsp Eden Organic Shiro Miso or 1/4 teaspoon Eden Sea Salt 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 cup pine nuts (pignolia), lightly dry pan toasted 2 Tbsp water 1 1/2 cups fresh basil, packed and chopped Directions: Cook udon per package directions and drain when done. While the udon is cooking, place all pesto ingredients in a blender and blend until creamy. Serve over udon or mix in before serving.

37

38

hap pen ings

JUNE
JUNE 24 Breast Cancer Walk Benefit Raisin Valley Golf Club, 4057 Comfort Rd., will host a four-person scramble with a 1pm shotgun start to benefit breast cancer research. Info: Kathy Stuewe, 517.403.2973. JUNE 25-29 T-Town Safety Communities In Schools of the Tecumseh Area (CISTA) sponsors a summer safety program for kids to teach them how to be safe. 517.423.7574 or www. cistecumseh.org.

IN AND AROUND TOWN

Please call ahead before attending events for any schedule changes

IRISH HILLS

VIRTUAL TOURS OF THOUSANDS OF MICHIGAN HOMES & NEIGHBORHOODS!

Mark Riggle
Broker/Owner

FREE! Instant MLS Access! Search the MLS in Privacy

14589 W. 223 Manitou Beach, MI 49253

517-206-4474 517-467-3003

Penny Noreika
Realtor

517-740-2008 517-467-3003

Suzie Creech

e ark RigglTeam M
The

Realtor

517-529-4414 517-467-3003

er iscov D

professional aerial photographer Bill Morlock 517-547-5577

39

Servicing

Devils Lake

and Beyond

HOME WATCH SERVICES DOCK & BOAT INSTALLATION LAWN CARE WINDOWS, GUTTERS & POWER WASHING HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIR OPEN & CLOSE COTTAGE FOR THE SEASON WINTERIZATION AND DE-WINTERIZATION

Welcome
to the

517.605.7997
dependabledane.com dependabledane@gmail.com

c o m m u n i t y
Devils Lake is among the largest lakes in Michigans Irish Hills area. It lies in a region that was once inhabited by a Native American Tribe. According to legend, the Potawatomi leader gave Devils Lake its name. He believed that evil spirits inhabited the waterswhen his daughter drowned and her body was never recovered. The shoreline of Devils Lake is highly developed with residential properties, where powerboats and sailboats fill the docks. There are private lakefront homes and cottages available for purchase or rent. The homes along the lakeshore are a common family vacation destination. A public boat launch allows 60 boats on weekends. Devils is also a popular fishing lake. Round Lake is connected to Devils Lake by a channel. Come watch the Devils and Round Lake fireworks on the 4th of July. Truly, Devils Lake is the place to be!
experience the

Addison Granary
Antiques & Collectables
Open 7 days a week 10am 5pm Closed Holidays
TERRY & LORRAINE BEACH 16765 ROME RD, ADDISON, MI 517-425-7877 TERRYLORRAINEBEACH@GMAIL.COM

The

DEVILS LAKE

YACHT CLUB
Outstanding casual & upscale menu Beachfront playground Sailing Swimming ... and so much more

No yachts at the Devils Lake ople. Yacht Club, only friendly pe

Live entertainment Fridays & Saturdays

Watersports
517-467-4814 800-461-5253 14581 US. 223 & Round Lake Hwy. Manitou Beach, MI 49253 www.dlwatersports.com

Lifestyle

COMPLIMENTARY MEMBERSHIP PASS

2097 MARSH DRIVE MANITOU BEACH
40

ARRANGE FOR A CLUB TOUR & ONE DAY

ask for manager chuck mcadams to

517.547.7352 www.devilslakeyachtclub.com

CUSTOM HOMES & REMODELING

Michigan Building Specialties
Architectural & Interior Design | Custom Homes & Remodeling | Kitchen & Bath | Additions & Finished Basements Outdoor Living Areas | Windows, Roofing & Siding | Commercial Contracting | Insurance Restoration

F ireworks
at the sanDbar

July 4th at 10pm

stablished in 1953, MBS is a premier residential remodeling & custom home contractor. Were known nationally for our innovation, professionalism and efficient building practices and have won numerous national, regional and local awards for excellence in our industry. We provide turnkey Design/Build services with our staff of designers, project managers and craftsmen working together to provide our clients with professionally designed and crafted home projects. Our projects have scopes that span from luxury custom homes and remodels to simple replacement windows. No matter the scale of your project our team strives to make your house truly your home.

Largest Selection Imported Domestic Beers

South Michigans of &

Specializing in lakefront homes

Rare & hard to find liquors Over 400 brands of cold beer Hundreds of fine wines Daily Fresh Deli Wide selection of cheeses Premium Cigars
US 223 Devils Lake Hwy www.woodstockwineandcheese.com
41

517-547-7522

866-464-2534 | www.4-mbs.com

JUNE 25 Magic Workshop for Teens Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., offers a free appearance by magician Andrew Martin to teach the ancient art form 10:30am to noon. Registration required: 517.423.2238. JUNE 28 Dragon Wagon Band 7pm. Bluegrass-Folk Rock with a shot of Irish Whiskey. Enjoy beer, wine and tapas. TCA Summer Black Box Series. Tecumseh Center for the Arts. 517.423.6617 or www.thetca.org JUNE 28 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights. Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artists, and magicians on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. JUNE 28 Explore Genealogy Sit in on a genealogy class at the Thompson House Museum Visitors Center beginning at 9am. Topics will vary. $5. Info: 517.448.8125. JUNE 28-29 Morenci Town & Country Festival Battle of the bands, rodeo, carnival, car show, mens softball tournament, fireworks, and more. Wakefield Park, Morenci. Info: 517.458.6828. JUNE 29 Friends of TSO Yard Sale Annual Friends of Tecumseh Schools Orchestra yard sale at 301 N. Union St., in Tecumseh from 9am to 5pm and Sat from 9am to 3pm. Proceeds benefit the orchestra. 517.423.4148. JUNE 30 Vintage Baseball Game See how the game was played in its infancy at Walker Tavern, junction of M-50 and US 12, as the Walker Wheels take on the Bay City Independents at 1pm. JUNE 30 Zany Umbrella Circus Circus held at Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd., Ann Arbor to benefit the center with acrobats, trapeze artists story telling. Performances at 11am and 1:30pm. JUNE 30 Golf Outing Manchester Chamber of Commerce will host a golf outing at Hills Heart of the Lake in Brooklyn beginning at 8am JUNE 30 Trains, Trucks, and More! Trucks, train cars, tractors and a food trailer for refreshments. Locomotive and motorcar rides. 807 S. Evans St., Tecumseh, from noon to 6pm. JUNE 30 Faber Palooza 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www. cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663

JULY 6 Music on the Patio Skoobie Snaks. Evans Street Station. 517.424.5555 or www. evansstreetstation.com JULY 6-7 Summerfest Fun in the sun at the Sandbar, Devils Lake. JULY 7 Kenya Dig It? 5K, 10K, and two-mile family fun walk begins and ends at Tecumseh High School, 760 Brown St. In memory of Cheyanne Denniss. Registration day of race begins at 6:30am, race at 8am. Preregister at www.kenyadigit.org or www.active.com. Info: kenyadigit12@yahoo.com or 423.3676. JULY 7 Billy Lewis & the Soul Backs 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards. Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 JULY 10-15 29th Annual River Raisin Festival Entertainment, childrens activities, carnival, Miss River Raisin Pageant, parade, car & bike show, truck pulls, two nights of fireworks, and more. Bachmayer and Ellis Parks, south side of Adrian St. (US 223), downtown Blissfield. JULY 11 Michigans First People Wednesdays at Walker Tavern, junction of M-50 and US 12, from 1pm to 3pm. Registration required by calling 517.467.4401. $6 per person. JULY 12 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, magician, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. JULY 12 Family Movie Night 6-9pm Downtown Sylvania, Ohio. JULY 13 Sylvania's Rockin' BBQ Begins at 4pm. Sylvania Idol - 7pm. Downtown Sylvania, Ohio. JULY 13-15 Les Miserables, Student Edition The legendary musical has been adapted for young performers at this author-approved edition of just over two hours, while maintaining integrity of famous Broadway production. Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. 517.264.7469 or www.croswell.org. JULY 14 Irish Hills Show Car Nationals Boy Scout pancake breakfast at 7am, more than 100 classic cars on display, arts & crafts, kids games, Oh, These Irish Hills history, local authors, and vendors at Michigan International Speedway, 12626 US 12, Brooklyn. Preview in downtown Onsted Friday night 6pm-9pm. JULY 14 Steve Tucker and Act III 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards. Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 JULY 14 Ride the Rails on SMRS Train Southern Michigan Railroad Society will be conducting train tours between Clinton and Tecumseh. Tickets and time info: 517.456.7677 or www.southernmichiganrailroad.com. JULY 14 Chelsea Outdoor Antique Sale Outdoor antique sale at 1178 S. Main St. in Chelsea from 8am4pm. JULY 14 Splash & Dash Youth Triathlon Bohn Pool/Riverside park, Adrian. Swim, Bike, and run for fun during the 4th annual youth triathlon that benefits the scholarship funds for the YMCA and Adrian Parks & Rec. Info: www.adrian.gov. JULY 17 Civil War Narratives & Stories Civil War authors will tell the story of the Michigan 4th Infantry at Franklin Twp. Hall, 3922 Monroe Rd. (M-50), from 7pm-8pm. JULY 18 Underground Railroad at Walker Wednesdays at Walker Tavern historic site, junction of M-50 and U.S. 12, 1pm to 3pm. Preregister, $6 per person. JULY 18 Book Bingo Play Book Bingo at Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., for books and other prizes at 1pm. www.tecumsehlibrary.org JULY 19 Chicken Broil the 59th Annual Manchester Chicken Broil will be at Alumni Memorial Field from 4pm-8pm. JULY 19 Sangria Patio Party 68pm.Featuring a Sangria-Off with some of our favorite mixologists! Submit your vote for your favorite of the adult beverages. Appetizers. Evans Street Station. 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com

J U LY
JULY 1 Vintage Baseball Game The Walker Wheels host the Saginaw Old Golds with rules and equipment of 100 years ago at Walker Tavern, junction of M-50 and US 12 beginning at 2pm. JULY 3 Manchester Fireworks Manchester will have a free fireworks display after dark at Carr Park sponsored by the Manchester Mens Club. Donations welcomed. JULY 3 Manchester Community Fair The fair will be held at Alumni Memorial Field through Saturday, July 7. There will be a fair parade Wednesday, July 4, at 3pm. JULY 4 Adrian Parade Downtown Adrian. Kids dont need a group to march with, just decorate your bike in red, white, and blue and join the parade. Info: Debbie DuMars 263.3293. JULY 4 Fireworks and Truck Show Indian Creek Camp Ground, 9415 Tangent Rd. (between Tecumseh and Britton). $5 per person entrance fee. Fireworks at dusk. JULY 4 Devils Lake Fireworks 10pm at the Sandbar JULY 5 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, face painting, and magicians on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. JULY 6 Adrian First Fridays: Americana Open mic and art walk featuring approximately 20 works of art with other attractions, most of which are free, beginning at 5pm. Downtown area. 517.264.4804 or Facebook.com/ AdrianFirstFridays.

42

JULY 19-22 Les Miserables, Student Edition The legendary musical has been adapted for young performers at this authorapproved edition of just over two hours, while maintaining integrity of famous Broadway production. Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. 517.264.7469 or www.croswell.org. JULY 19 Music in the Park Tecumsehs monthly free concert in Adams Park next to City Hall on E. Chicago Blvd features a wide variety of bands and music from 6pm to 8pm. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. JULY 19 Ride to Dine on SMRS Take Southern Michigan Railroad from Clinton to Tecumseh at 5:30pm for dining and car show. Return to Clinton at 8:30pm. Tickets and info: 517.456.7677 or www.southernmichiganrailroad.com. JULY 19 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, magician, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. JULY 20 Harry Potter Marathon Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., 11am-4pm on the big screen. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Parts 1 and 2 JULY 21 Annual Pet Parade Tecumseh hosts its ninth Annual Pet Parade down Chicago Boulevard beginning at 10am. There is a different theme every year for those wishing to dress their pets accordingly. Info: lhewlett@tecumseh.mi.us. or 517.424.6003 JULY 21 Antique Baseball The Walker Tavern historic site will host an antique baseball game, played with old-school rules and equipment, between the Walker Wheels and the visiting Wyandotte Stars beginning at 1 p.m. JULY 21 Faber Palooza 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards. Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine. com 517.592.4663 JULY 21 Wild at the Pool Night Safe and enjoyable evening for kids at Bohn Pool in Adrian, 6:30pm-9:30pm ages 6-15 $12.50/$10 Adrian residents. JULY 22-28 173rd Lenawee County Fair A week of family fun, including food, carnival rides, 4-H animals & displays, entertainment, music, and midway, 602 N. Dean St., Adrian. 517.263.3007. JULY 22 Vintage Baseball The Walker Tavern historic site will host an antique baseball game, played with old-school rules and equipment, between the Walker Wheels and the visiting Union BBC of Dexter beginning at 2 p.m. JULY 22 Grill & Chill Cooking Class on the Patio 5 pm. Well provide you with recipes, demonstrate the preparation, and serve up four incredible summer dishes for your feasting pleasure. Evans Street Station. 517.424.5555 or www. evansstreetstation.com JULY 25 Adrian Chamber Brass Concert Tecumseh Senior Center, 703 E. Chicago Blvd., 12:30pm, free. Works by J.S. Bach, Leroy Anderson, and Andrew Lloyd Webber. 43

JULY 26 Bill Bynum & Company 7pm. Folk-rock with a touch of country blue. From time proven country favorites to Bynums original songs. Enjoy beer, wine and tapas. TCA Summer Black Box Series. Tecumseh Center for the Arts. 517.423.6617 or www.thetca.org JULY 26 Explore Genealogy Sit in on a genealogy class at the Thompson House Museum Visitors Center beginning at 9am. Topics will vary. $5. 517.448.8125. JULY 26 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. $5 for social tent. JULY 27 Chelsea S&S Festival Whitney Morgan and the 78s and Blue River Band. Music for all ages in the social tent, 7:30pm-11pm. Downtown Chelsea, $5. JULY 28 Swing at the Community Center Swing your partner with the TCA Big Band & VocalAires. Dance to music of the golden age of swing at the Tecumseh Community Center, 703 E. Chicago Blvd., beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10, $15 at door. 517.423.6617 or www.theTCA.org. JULY 28 Victor Trachsel Group 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www. cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 JULY 28 Take the Train between Clinton and Tecumseh Summertime is time to travel. Travel back in time aboard the Southern Michigan Railroad. Depart Clinton at 11am or 2pm or from Tecumseh at 12:30pm. Tickets and time info: 517.456.7677 or www. southernmichiganrailroad.com. JULY 28 Chelsea S&S Festival Billy Mack & The Juke Joint Johnnies, and Fifty Amp Fuse, music for all ages in the social tent, 7:30pm-11pm. Downtown Chelsea, $5. JULY 29 Special Evening with Jill Jack Band 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards. Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www. cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663

AUGUST
AUGUST 2 Faerie Festival Manchester hosts its Faerie Festival at 3:30pm at the Manchester Farmers Market, Main Street at Adrian downtown. AUGUST 2-5 Worlds Longest Yard Sale 675 miles (from Hudson to Gadsden, Ala.) along US 127. AUGUST 2 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, magician, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All shows are free. AUGUST 3 Music on the Patio Al Jacquez. Evans Street Station. 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com AUGUST 4 Lost Arts Festival Thompson Museum. Hudson. 9am - 4pm During the citywide garage sale. Antique appraisals available, $8 per item. Info: 517.448.8125. AUGUST 4 Christian Family Centre Family Day Family fun at low cost or no cost, inside and out, 1800 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian. Info: 263.6232. AUGUST 4 Walker on Wheels Vintage cars (50 years or older) at the Walker Tavern Historic Complex, US 12 & M 50, participants eligible for door prizes all day. Info: 517.467.4401.

44

Farmers Market

Thursday Afternoons 3-7pm May-September Adrian Street Downtown

Gazebo Concerts

Thursday Evenings 7:30pm June August Wurster Park

Fireworks

Tuesday July 3 Dusk Carr Park

Manchester Community Fair

of FUN
48158.com

PLATE

A FULL

Fair Parade Wednesday July 4 3pm Downtown Manchester Fair July 3-7 Alumni Memorial Field

59th Annual Chicken Broil

Thursday July 19 4-8pm Alumni Memorial Field

59th MANCHESTER

BROIL
Riverfolk

CHICKEN
July 19 4-8pm
Tickets

Jam Camp August 1-3 Sharon Mills Park

Faerie Festival

$9

Thursday August 2 3-7pm Manchester Farmers Market Adrian Street at Main Downtown

Cajun Dance Party Run Manchester

August 3 Main Street, Manchester Saturday August 4 8am starts on the Main Street Bridge downtown Manchester

Oktoberfest

Saturday September 22 Downtown

MANCHESTER AREA CHAMBER of COMMERCE

Janet Larson, President MACC president@manchestermi.org 734-476-4565 www.48158.com
45

Thursdays 6:30-8pm thru August 16

Enjoy a line-up of 10 or More Acts: Music Comedians Children's Activities All Happening Simultaneously! www.chelseafestivals.com

Chelsea
R ETIREMENT C OMMUNITY

try something

Getting older isnt about fighting time, but embracing it. Its a lifestyle choice. This attitude, embracing life to age well, is the essence of Silver Maples mission, one that supports and encourages Silver Maples community members to stay active, connected, and engaged with friends, family, and the greater community.

(734) 475-4111 www.silvermaples.org

Locally-Owned, Non-Profit Jointly Sponsored by the Chelsea-Area Wellness Foundation and United Methodist Retirement Communities, Inc.
46

Amazing European style cakes, cupcakes, wedding cakes, and pastries.

AUGUST 4 Vintage Baseball The Walker Tavern historic site will host an antique baseball game, played with old-school rules and equipment, between the Walker Wheels and the visiting Northville Eclipse beginning at 2pm. AUGUST 4 Wynwood 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards.. Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www. cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 AUGUST 4 Run Manchester The race starts downtown on the Main Street Bridge. Info: wwwmanchesterareafriends.org AUGUST 7 Local Authors Night Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., 7pm, Celebrate the writing of local authors. AUGUST 9 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, magician, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm8:30pm. All shows are free. AUGUST 9 Taking it to the Streets' 5-9 pm. Welcome Jamie Farr Event. Downtown Sylvania, Ohio. AUGUST 10-12 Michigans Longest Garage Sale 212 miles along US 12 all the way through Lenawee County. Sales are clustered and hit-andmiss but always fun. AUGUST 10-12 7 Brides for 7 Brothers Stage version of the popular MGM movie, boisterous fun and romance at the Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Info: 264.7469 or www.croswell.org. AUGUST 11-12 Pioneer Wine Trail Two-day, self-driving tour of the eight wineries of the Pioneer Wine Trail. Each stop has wine sampling and picnic food from local restaurant. Tickets $25. Info: 517.592.4663 or 517.531.3080. AUGUST 11 30 Years Aboard SMRS Celebrate the anniversary of Southern Michigan Railroad Society with a ride on the vintage train. Depart Clinton at 11am or 2pm or from Tecumseh at 12:30pm. Tickets: 517.456.7677 or www. southernmichiganrailroad.com. AUGUST 11 Chelsea Outdoor Antique Sale Outdoor antique sale at 1178 S. Main St. in Chelsea from 8am-4pm. AUGUST 11 John Voelz Band 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www. cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663

AUGUST 18-19 Country Vintage Sale Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm, at Creation Station, 4133 Blissfield Hwy. Sponsored by The Junk Wranglers. Info: Connie 417.290.8243 or Cheryl 734.790.6383 AUGUST 18 Lost Wages 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 AUGUST 19 Tee for Technology Golf Outing Inspired by Jasmynn, an elevenyear-old Autistic girl to raise money for ipads for other non-verbal Autistic children. Info 517.264.5468. 9am Shotgun Start. Woodlawn Golf Course, Madison. AUGUST 19-21 NASCAR Racing at MIS Michigan International Speedway, US 12 and M 50, Brooklyn. Tickets and info: 1.800.354.1010. AUGUST 21 Movie at the TDL Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St. On the big screen: The Grace Card, 8:15pm. Witness the power of forgiveness. Free. AUGUST 23 Chris Shutters Unplugged 7pm. Songwriter, guitarist, and lead vocalist of the band that bears his name. Enjoy beer, wine and tapas. TCA Summer Black Box Series. Tecumseh Center for the Arts. 517.423.6617 or www.thetca.org AUGUST 23 Explore Genealogy Sit in on a genealogy class at the Thompson House Museum Visitors Center beginning at 9am. Topics will vary. $5. Info: 517.448.8125. AUGUST 24 Art in August During the evening downtown Tecumseh merchants display local art and offer extended business hours and refreshments. 6pm to 9pm AUGUST 25 Vintage Baseball The Walker Tavern historic site will host an antique baseball game, played with old-school rules and equipment, between the Walker Wheels and the visiting Port Huron Welkins beginning at 1 p.m. AUGUST 25 Ride the Rails on SMRS Train Southern Michigan Railroad Society will be conducting train tours between Clinton and Tecumseh. Depart Clinton at 11am or 2pm or from Tecumseh at 12:30pm. Tickets and info: 517.456.7677 or www. southernmichiganrailroad.com. AUGUST 25 Air Tight 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 AUGUST 30 Classic Cruise Night Cambrian Assisted Living, 333 N. Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, hosts an evening of classic automobiles, food, fun, and prizes to benefit the Alzheimers Association Great Lakes Chapter from 6pm-8pm. Registration begins at 5:30pm

Wedding Cakes

Fruit & Cream Cakes

Cheese Cakes

Cupcakes & Pastries

Glee Havens, Executive Pastry Chef gleecakeandpastry.com | [734] 475-3000 117 S. Main St. | Downtown Chelsea

Chelsea Community Hospital, Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation, Clearys Pub, KeyBank, Edward Jones, The Common Grill.

Sponsors: Chelsea DDA. Chelsea State Bank, Jiffy Mixes & Lake Trust Credit Union

Every Thursday through August 16 Free - Downtown Chelsea | 6:30p-8:30p

10 stages with music | street performers kids activities & entertainment sculpture walk | food vendors | outdoor movies

chelseafestivals.com A program of the Chelsea Center for the Arts Sounds & Sights Festival July 26-28

AUGUST 14 Honor Flight of Michigan Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St. Veterans of the Second World War discuss their wartime experiences as they visit the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C. 7pm-9pm. AUGUST 15 Book Bingo Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., Play bingo to win books and other prizes, have fun, and make new friends 1pm AUGUST 16 Ride to Dine on SMRS Take Southern Michigan Railroad from Clinton to Tecumseh at 5:30pm for dining and car show. Return to Clinton at 8:30pm. Tickets and info: 517.456.7677 or www.southernmichiganrailroad. com. AUGUST 16 Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights Chelsea hosts comedians, movie, musicians, balloon artist, juggler, magician, and more on 10 stages downtown from 6:30pm8:30pm. All shows are free. AUGUST 17-19 7 Brides for 7 Brothers Stage version of the popular MGM movie, boisterous fun and romance at the Croswell Opera House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Info: 264.7469 or www.croswell.org.

SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 1 Stagecoach Days Walker Tavern historic site will host lost arts, old-time music, food, family activities, from 10am to 4pm. Adults $3, children $1, and children under 5, free. SEPTEMBER 2 Faber Palooza 2-6 pm. Live Entertainment outside at Caf at the Creek overlooking the vineyards... Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 SEPTEMBER 7 Music on the Patio Fatmouth Charlie. Evans Street Station. 517.424.5555 or www.evansstreetstation.com

47

SEPTEMBER 8 Ride the Rails on SMRS Train Southern Michigan Railroad Society will be conducting train tours between Clinton and Tecumseh. Tickets and time info: 517.456.7677 or www. southernmichiganrailroad.com. SEPTEMBER 11 Savings-Savvy Coupon Group Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., 10:30am-11:30am. Bring your coupons and exchage current coupons and discounts with fellow smart shoppers. No charge.

JUST 12 MILES FROM BLISSFIELD

SEPTEMBER 15 Act 11 Farewell Bash & Harvest Party Cherry Creek Vineyard & Winery, Brooklyn www.cherrycreekwine.com 517.592.4663 SEPTEMBER 16 Fossil Fest Historical Village, Downtown Sylvania, Ohio. SEPTEMBER 18 Thus Fell Tecumseh Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St. 7pm. Author Frank Kuron will review many of the eye-witness testimonies to Chief Tecumsehs death. Free. SEPTEMBER 18 Book Bingo Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St. 1pm. Play bingo to win books and other prizes, have fun, and make new friends. No charge. SEPTEMBER 20 Ride to Dine on SMRS Take Southern Michigan Railroad from Clinton to Tecumseh at 5:30pm for dining and car show. Return to Clinton at 8:30pm. Tickets and info: 517.456.7677 or www.southernmichiganrailroad.com. SEPTEMBER 22-23 Country Vintage Sale Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am4pm, at Creation Station, 4133 Blissfield Hwy. Sponsored by The Junk Wranglers. Info: Connie 417.290.8243 or Cheryl 734.790.6383. SEPTEMBER 22 Oktoberfest Manchester hosts its annual Oktoberfest downtown. SEPTEMBER 28-30 Clinton Fall Festival Three days of arts, crafts, food, vendors, car show, carnival, and Sunday parade. Southern Michigan Railroad offers rides to Tecumseh and parking for the festival. Tickets and info: 517.456.7677 or www.southernmichiganrailroad.com.

Downtown Sylvania Association

Family Movie Night July 12 6-9pm Downtown Sylvania Sylvania's Rockin' BBQ July 13 4pm Sylvania Idol - 7pm Taking it to the Streets' August 9 5-9 pm Welcome Jamie Farr Event Fossil Fest September 16 Historical Village
48

Do you have events happening this Fall?

DOWNTOWN

Fall Homefront published September 27

Send us your events happening September 27 through December 10 in 25 words or less. Include contact information and we will include them free of charge, space permitting. Send to hollie@tecumsehherald.com or mail to P.O. Box 218, Tecumseh MI 49286.

CREATE

FLOYD'S

CARVING
By Mary Kay McCormick

WOOD

owntown Clinton is not the first place most people would look to find a nationally-renowned artist, but since 2009 it has been the perfect location for Floyd Rhadigan. This busy woodcarver, specifically a caricature carver, divides his time between teaching the craft to others, creating commissioned art pieces, and working with the Caricature Carvers of America to create new designs used by caricature carvers. He owns Floyds Wood Carving & Antiques on Michigan Avenue, with its selection of antiques and carved items by himself and other artists. Sheila Tanner runs the antique store so that Floyd can focus on his art and teaching. His studio/classroom is in the back of the store in Clinton, where the walls are lined with his artwork and carving supplies. Floyds creative gene was passed down through his father, a freelance artist who ran a sign business in the Detroit area during the Depression as a way to take care of his family. Rhadigans father was one of the artists who worked with Diego Rivera on the 27-panel mural at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Rhadigan said he was inspired to carve by Smokey Joe Breemiller, a man who sometimes worked in his fathers sign shop and was also a carver. It just amazed me, Rhadigan said of Smokey Joes work. In 1970 after returning from the Vietnam War, Rhadigan spent three weeks in Hamtramack with Smokey Joe immersed in learning the techniques of woodcarving. It was like a love affair, said Rhadigan. It just opened me up to this is what I want to do. Although it would be 32 years before Rhadigan made carving his full-time job, he worked at it every day, and over 20 years he slowly gained notoriety for his work. He provided for his family by running a sign shop in Saline as well as the Drowsy Parrot coffeehouse while perfecting his carving technique. Carving was always a part of me but about 10 years ago I decided Im just going to do this, he said. I was told so much I would never make it, but its been good. Beginning in 2001, the Caricature Carvers of America started having carving competitions, and Rhadigan entered the contests regularly. In 2005

It was like a love affair, said Rhadigan. It just opened me up to this is what I want to do.

Rhadigan received a Best in Show award for The Road to Mirth and Happiness, gaining the attention of the members in the Caricature Carvers of America. All my heroes are members, Rhadigan said about the national organization. This elite group has only 25 members, and rarely admits anyone new. Rhadigan, invited to join and sponsored by member Tom Brown, was voted in unanimously. He is currently finishing his third and last year of the presidency for the Caricature Carvers of America. It was like I died and went to heaven because this is what I wanted to do, said Rhadigan about working with his heroes. After admittance to the normally closed ranks, Rhadigan began working with the carvers on specialty projects. The set that members are currently working on is a 1930s street scene, which will debut at the Dayton Carving Show in 2013. There are 11 buildings in the scene along with a variety of characters. Every project the group creates is detailed in a companion book that explains how to replicate the carvings. Our whole goal is to promote caricature carving and bring people in to caricature carving, Rhadigan said. A lot of people call it a hobby and a craft, but its not. Its really an art. When creating any new caricature piece, Rhadigan starts with a sketch of his idea. Then he carves a block of basswood following his design for the figure, and finishes the piece by adding color with acrylic paint diluted by water. There are many people who love to carve, but do not have the ability to create their own designs. Rhadigan creates detailed plans for many of his pieces, which carvers can use to make their own versions. He also sells roughed out basswood blocks, that allow less experienced carvers to just add the

49

Floyd's continued...

details. If you want to be good you have to practice, Rhadigan said. He recommends to all his students that they carve at least half an hour a day, every day. In addition to his Tuesday morning class at the store which meets from 9 to noon, Rhadigan travels all over the country to teach classes, which usually last for three days. In addition to classes he teaches around Michigan, Rhadigan regularly travels to Pennsylvania, Florida, and South Texas are all states. A regular contributor to Woodcarving Illustrated, Rhadigan has also published two books on fantasy carving, which includes stepby-step instruction and photos. Im usually in at least three issues, Rhadigan says of the quarterly publication. Carving requires patience and a certain amount of eye-hand coordination. The rest can be learned if a student is willing. I can teach anybody technique, Rhadigan said. He shows students how to use the tools, how to paint and how to carve a face. He can even teach students how to take an idea, turn it into a pattern on paper, use a band saw to start the piece that will become a finished carving. Rhadigan also creates commissioned carvings upon request. Every year he creates 200 ornaments and 80 Santa figures for Whittlers Corner in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. You have to do what pays, Rhadigan explained about the variety of ways he earns his living as a full-time carver. Im surprised people will pay me to do this, because I love it. Another outlet for his work besides teaching is being a member of Saline Woodcarvers, which he joined around 1988. The

group meets every Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. The meetings are relaxed and anyone is welcome to come and watch or join in the carving. Rhadigan said there are also woodcarving groups that meet in Clinton and Tecumseh, and that almost every small community around the country has a woodcarving club. The Michigan Wood Carvers Association supports all 46 woodcarving groups in Michigan. Rhadigan said the woodcarving groups would like to see more young people get interested in this art form. The Saline club started a program to provide tools and tutoring for young people to learn wood carving. Like many traditional art forms, young people are not naturally drawn to wood carving. Its hard to compete with video games and television and all the activities at school, Rhadigan explained. Even if we make a little bit of an impression on them now, whos to say in 20 years they may say, Hey, I remember doing that. Most new students are people in their 30s, 40s and 50s, according to Rhadigan. Even though these students are older, they are still a welcome infusion of youth to balance the aging craftsmen currently creating wood carvings. For those interested in exploring the art form, Rhadigan offers a class at his store on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $15 per class plus the cost of the materials. He recommends students buy tools as they are needed instead of spending the money on a set. Tools and supplies are available for purchase at his store, as well. For more information contact Rhadigan at 734.649.3259 or at fantasycarving.com. n

50

SUROVELL
REALTORS

EDWARD

CUTE AS A BUGS EAR

123 Scott St. Adrian. Appliances, washer & dryer stay. Kitchen offers counter space and large cupboards, the windows facing south for lots of light. Spacious living room. 1 Bed, 1 Bathroom has tub and shower. Shed for more storage. $22,500. Call Todd Wolf.

BREATHTAKING
5000 Sand Lake Dr. Onsted. Privacy plus on beautiful Sand Lake, this updated cottage is surrounded by trees & outstanding lake views. 3 Bed, 1 Baths, Living Room w. fireplace, Family/Dining Room, & Walk-out Rec Room. 1.89 acres. $329,900. Contact Glenna Stroud.

RED MILL LUXURY

1103 N. River Ct 4200 sq. ft. of luxurious living. Solid brick ranch on Red Mill Pond with private dock. 5 bedrooms plus den. Custom cherry kitchen, Unique brick walkways and courtyards. Call for brochure. $399,900. Contact Barb Schrader.

NORTH SIDE TECUMSEH

1407 Bramblewood. New Listing! Gorgeous 2,229 SF, 4-bed, 2.5 bath on .57 acre! Granite counters, entry, formal dining - hardwood floors, living room - French doors, family room - fireplace, screened in porch! Garage, mature landscaping, $186,900. Contact Kay Prong.

SUMMER ESCAPE
501 Red Maple, Tecumseh. Fantastic 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home, featuring master bedroom and laundry room on main floor. Granite countertops fireplace, and finished basement. Dont forget the open porches front and back. for summer relaxing! Call Carl & Pam Poling.

IN-HOME BUSINESS
17 Ridgemont Dr. Custom built ranch with photography studio in walkout lower level. 2400 Sq. Ft. on each level! 4 BR, 2.5 Bath. Zoned inhome business. Tecumseh Schools. $259,000. Contact Fred McCrate.

GOLF COURSE VIEWS

915 Burt St. Tecumseh. 3 bedroom, 3 bath home on 1 acre. 2 brick fireplaces, sun room, 1st floor laundry, sauna. Attached 31x24 garage + 8 x12 storage building. Garden spot. Immediate occupancy. $189,900. Call Paula Mamayek.

SAND LAKE
5501 Augusta Ct, Onsted. Spend the summer at Sand Lake in the heart of pure Michigans Irish Hills! Sandy beach, 2 bedrooms, 864 sq ft, nicely updated cottage, extra parking area, best member deeded access on this lake. $114,900. Contact Jim Hammond.

LOG HOME
10100 Sand Lake Hwy., Onsted. Excellent condition custom log home placed on 8+ rolling acres near dozens of lakes in Pure Michigans Irish Hills area! 3236 Sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, finished walkout basement, 30x40 pole barn. $299,900. Contact Jan Hammond.

TECUMSEH SCHOOLS
40 Ridgemont. The Heights subdivision Adrian Township 3 Bedrooms, 2 full baths, master bath, fireplace, family room, 2 car attached garage, basement, built-in swimming pool, private backyard, theater room, weight room , $139,000. Contact Joan Haligus.

ADORABLE BUNGALOW
1202 Murray Dr, Tecumseh. Pristine Cape Cod House. Spacious bath, first floor master & laundry. Newer windows, furnace, water heater, carpeting, ceramic tile bath and kitchen. Half acre yard with deck. Close to schools, town & parks. $69,900. Contact April Gunder.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
2393 Forrest Hill Tecumseh. Great PRICE! Own your business & live there as well. 2 workshops can be combined - 40x30 and 24x30. 12 ft overhead door and 7ft overhead door . Home has 3 br 1 bath, fenced yard, large kitchen, reception area. Contact Kim K. Goldmann.

HISTORIC CHARM
504 Tecumseh St., Clinton. This very charming, 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath historic home really stands out on Tecumseh St. in Clinton! Many mechanical updates, with the charm of yesteryear. $134,000. Contact Greg Brown.

ROOMY MASTER SUITE

1314 Partridge Ct., Tecumseh. This Bramblewood sub 2 story offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, large oak kitchen with custom island, formal dining, roomy master suite and full basement w/daylight windows. Immediate occupancy. Offered at $149,500. Call Betsy Beil.

CUSTOM BUILT PRIVACY

8504 Pentecost Hwy., Onsted. Privacy and wild life surrounds you in this Custom built Contemporary Home. Multi-tiered deck to the pool. Master suite & jetted tub and seperate shower. $279,900. Call Sherrie Beaubien.

51

Discover health care and wellness designed for you!

The Womens Health Center is dedicated to your health and well-being.
Every woman deserves quality, compassionate health care close to home. The Womens Health Center on the campus of ProMedica Herrick Hospital provides you with comprehensive services in a warm, comfortable setting to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call the Womens Health Center:

517-424-3611

Health care and wellness services for every stage of life.

Minimally invasive gynecological procedures 3D/4D ultrasound Bone health including treatment for osteoporosis and osteopenia Breast cancer diagnostics, biopsies and ultrasound Midlife changes and menopause Female urology, incontinence and sexual dysfunction Varicose veins and other vascular concerns Migraine headaches Heart health Nutrition and physical therapy Massage therapy Hypnotherapy Medical aesthetics and skin care
500 E. Pottawatamie St. Tecumseh, Michigan 49286 promedica.org/womenshealthcenter

2012 ProMedica