November 5 Election (Manistee County)

According to the Manistee County Clerk, only residents of the the City of Manistee and Onekama Township will have ballot decisions to make tomorrow.

November 5, 2013 Election

Candidates and Proposals

City of Manistee
City Council Member – 2nd District
   Edward Cote
City Council Member – 4th District
   Robert Chip Goodspeed
City Council Member – 6th District
   Beth Ann Adams
   John R. Garber
   Mark M. Wittlieff

Onekama Township
TOWNSHIP BUILDING MILLAGE PROPOSAL
Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property
in Onekama Township be increased by 0.33 mills ($0.33 per $1,000 of taxable value),
for a period of twenty (20) years, 2013 to 2032, inclusive, as new additional millage to
provide funds for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, and renovating improvements
to the Township offices? If approved and levied in its entirety in 2013, the millage
would raise an estimated $47,350 for the Township.
YES
NO

Source:  Manistee County Clerk, Elections webpage

Rehab for Village Variety Store, Owner

Village Variety Store (TPG file photo)

5/20/14 update

We recently learned that Karen Leckrone passed away during the winter (February 17, 2014) in Clarksville, Tennessee.  Our condolences to her family.

Source:  http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tennessean/obituary.aspx?n=karen-f-leckrone&pid=169726518&fhid=6021

10/8/13 update

Karen Leckrone is now back home and recovering well, according to her grandson, John.

Original story posted 9/9/13, 1:34pm

The proprietor of Bear Lake's Village Variety Store, Karen Leckrone, is recuperating at the Manistee County Medical Care Facility, following open heart surgery that included the insertion of a pacemaker.

The Three Pines Gander spoke with her briefly by telephone on Saturday, as well as her grandson, John.  The younger Leckrone explained that while the Village Variety Store was going out of business (and offering sale prices, accordingly), improvements would be made on the building.  His father plans to repair the roof and do other work to make the building suitable for future purposes.  The Leckrone family also sells a variety of antiques from three other storefronts, including the former florist shop, the former cafe and the building directly across US-31 (Lake Street).

Cards and letters may be sent to Karen Leckrone, in care of the Manistee County Medical Care Facility, Room 110, 1505 E. Parkdale Ave., Manistee, MI  49660.

Complete Broadcast Day - September 21, 1939

Today, we voyage to September 21, 1939. We'll be hearing from WJSV in Washington, D.C., starting at 6am. After station identification and some light music, Arthur Godfrey starts his shift at 6:30am with the Sundial program.

Local news from Manistee County from the same day will be sprinkled in throughout the day, starting at noon. You might hear a familiar family name. If we happen to mispronounce a name, please correct us here or at threepinesgander@gmail.com.

You can see our 1939 schedule by clicking the Radio tab, above, and listen online by clicking the play button (arrow in the circle) in the box at the right.

Bear Lake Weight Loss Club to Hold Open House

On Monday, Sept. 23 at 10am, the Bear Lake chapter of TOPS ("Take Off Pounds Sensibly") will hold an open house at the Bear Lake Methodist Church, 7861 Main St., for people interested in losing weight and healthy living.

TOPS is a non-profit group that meets each Monday at 9:30am at the Bear Lake UMC to help its attendees lose weight by education, peer support and regular weigh-ins.  There are no required foods or special diets.  Weight-loss programs are individualized by each person and their doctor.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge.  Membership is $28 per year, plus $3 per month chapter fees.  For additional information about the Bear Lake TOPS chapter or the upcoming open house, contact Jane Alstrom at (231) 889-3500.

TPG Radio Service Upgrades

The radio service of the Three Pines Gander is taking a few weeks to make much-needed upgrades. We're adding new computer equipment and programming new shows. We'll see you in September!

[Photo of the ENIAC computer, circa 1942 from http://www.library.upenn.edu/exhibits/rbm/mauchly/jwm8b.html]

Record Store Open in Manistee

For a couple of months, "Play It Again, Johnny" has been open, but there are a few people who haven't been there even once.  The record store opened in late June.

John Dalke, a resident of Manistee, told us by phone that more recordings and related equipment have yet to arrive at the store.  "I have 40 years' worth still waiting to be transported," he said.  It's more than a place to get one's retro fix, however; it's a practical source of hard-to-find gear.  The store features radios, antiques and record players.  Many musicians still release albums and singles on vinyl.  

One recent visitor from the Detroit area expressed delight upon finding Peter Tosh and Fleetwood Mac albums.  "We're loving it in here," wrote Anne Hayman on her Flickr photo-sharing webpage.

"Play It Again, Johnny" is currently open 10am-5pm every day, and sometimes longer, says Dalke, depending on foot traffic.  It's located next to Bluefish Kitchen + Bar, on River Street in Manistee.

(Photo:  Anne Hayman/Indie Lovely)

August 6 Election Proposals - Manistee County

Most townships in Manistee County will only have one item to decide today:  whether to renew, for 8 years, West Shore Community College's operating millage.  According to Lindsey Marquardt, chief deputy county clerk, the college district encompasses almost all of Manistee County.  About 75 voters in Springdale Township will vote at Maple Grove Township and were notified of their special polling location via letter, a couple of weeks ago.  Cleon Township does not fall into the college district.

Just a few townships will have additional ballot items, including Bear Lake Township, Filer Charter Township, Onekama Township and Stronach Township. Polls are open until 8pm tonight.

Bear Lake Township (including Village residents) will decide whether to approve a millage that would pay for new fire department vehicles and related equipment.  Larry Gibson, chairman of the Friends of Bear Lake Township Fire Department group (FOBLTFD), which urges a "Yes" vote, talked with the Three Pines Gander about the millage proposal.

Click green arrow button to play audio, below

Larry Gibson Bear Lake Fire Dept Ballot Question by Vince Hancock on Mixcloud

Gibson's group has distributed a pro-millage card, seen below.

An opponent to the proposal is Tony Merrill, former Pleasanton Township supervisor and currently member of the Pleasanton Planning Commission.  He placed the following ad in the Manistee News Advocate over the weekend.  He could not be reached for comment.

 

The text of the ballot items is below, as found at the county clerk's website.  

BEAR LAKE TOWNSHIP

Proposal For Replacing Fire Department Vehicles and Equipment Millage

This proposal will permit the Township to levy up to .75 mills for the purpose of
providing funds for the purchase of fire department vehicles and related equipment.
Shall the limitation on the amount of ad valorem taxes which may be levied by the
Township of Bear Lake, Manistee County, Michigan, against taxable property in the
Township be increased by up to .75 mills ($0.75 per $1,000 of taxable value) for a period
of five (5) years, 2013 through 2017, inclusive, for the purpose of providing funds for the
purchase of fire department vehicles and related equipment, and shall the Township levy
such millage for these purposes? If approved and levied in its entirety, this millage would
raise an estimated $55,650 for the Township in 2013.

YES
NO

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF FILER

PROPOSITION 1: Garbage and Trash Disposal – Renewal

Shall the Charter Township of Filer, Manistee County, Michigan, increase the
constitutional limitation on the total amount of general ad valorem taxes imposed upon
real and tangible personal property for all purposes in the Charter Township of Filer,
Manistee County, Michigan, by an additional one (1) mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable
valuation) and levy an additional one (1) mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable valuation) for
a period of five (5) years (2013-2017, inclusive) for garbage and trash removal within the
Charter Township of Filer? (This is a renewal of the one (1) mill for garbage and trash
removal, which expired in 2012; if approved, it is estimated that the revenue generated by
this proposal in the first year would be $169,214.)

YES
NO

PROPOSITION 2: Fire Department Operation – Renewal

Shall the Charter Township of Filer, Manistee County, Michigan, increase the
constitutional limitation on the total amount of general ad valorem taxes imposed upon
real and tangible personal property for all purposes in the Charter Township of Filer,
Manistee County, Michigan, by an additional one-half (1/2) mill ($.50 per $1,000 of
taxable valuation) and levy an additional one-half (1/2) mill ($.50 per $1,000 of taxable
valuation) for a period of five (5) years (2013-2017, inclusive) for township fire and
rescue operations within the Charter Township of Filer? (This is a renewal of the one-half
(1/2) mill for township fire and rescue operations which expired in 2012; if approved, it is
estimated that the revenue generated by this proposal in the first year would be $84,607.)

YES
NO

PROPOSITION 3: Fire Department Equipment Millage-New

Shall the Charter Township of Filer, Manistee County, Michigan, increase the
constitutional limitation on the total amount of general ad valorem taxes imposed upon
real and tangible personal property for all purposes in the Charter Township of Filer,
Manistee County, Michigan, by an additional one-quarter (1/4) mill ($.25 per $1,000 of
taxable valuation) and levy an additional one-quarter (1/4) mill ($.25 per $1,000 of
taxable valuation) for a period of five (5) years (2013 through 2017, inclusive) for
purposes of acquiring, furnishing, installing, attaching, repairing, replacing, financing and
maintaining township fire and rescue equipment, including vehicles, and all
appurtenances and attachments thereto, within the Charter Township of Filer? (This is a
request for a new one-quarter (1/4) mill for township fire and rescue equipment; if
approved, it is estimated that the revenue generated by this proposal in the first year
would be $44,309.93.)

YES
NO

ONEKAMA TOWNSHIP

Onekama Township Fire/Rescue Millage Renewal Proposition

Shall the previously voted increase in the tax limitation imposed by Section 6, Article IX
of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 on general ad valorem taxes within Onekama
Township, Manistee County, Michigan, be renewed at one (1) mill of the taxable value of
all property in Onekama Township ($1.00 per $1,000.00 of taxable value) for a period of
five (5) years, 2014-2018, inclusive, for the purpose of funding Onekama Township’s
fire-rescue department operating, capital improvement and capital acquisition purposes,
including the purchase of fire fighting and emergency response equipment; and shall
Onekama Township levy such renewal in millage for said purpose, thereby, raising in the
first year an estimated $143,486.00? This is a renewal of the previously authorized one
(1) mill for fire-rescue department operating, capital improvement and capital acquisition
purposes, including the purchase of fire fighting and emergency response equipment,
which expires in 2013.

YES
NO

WEST SHORE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT

OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSTION

This proposition is to renew millage for community college operating purposes which
expires with the 2013 tax levy.

Shall the previous voted increase in the constitutional tax rate limitation on the amount of
taxes imposed upon all property within the community college district of West Shore
Community College, Michigan, be renewed in the amount of .7062 mill ($0.7062 on each
$1,000 of taxable valuation) for a period of eight (8) years, 2014 through 2021, inclusive,
subject to reduction as provided by law, to provide funds for community college
operating purposes (estimated to provide revenues of approximately $1,997,000 in
2014)?

There are tax increment authorities in the community college district that capture and
retain for authorized purposes tax increment revenues from property taxes levied by the
community college. Such capture would include a portion of this millage levy. The total
amount of captured tax increment revenues from such millage in the first calendar year of
the levy is estimated to be $45,000. The following tax increment authorities in the
community college district presently capture a portion of the community college’s
property tax levy: the Downtown Development Authorities of the City of Manistee and
Filer Charter Township; and the City of Scottville and Mason County Brownfield
Redevelopment Authority.

YES
NO

MASON COUNTY EASTERN DISTRICT

(STRONACH TOWNSHIP ONLY)

OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL

This proposal will allow the school district to continue to levy the
statutory maximum rate of 18 mills on all property, except principal
residence and other property exempted by law, required for the school
district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance and renews
millage that will expire with the 2013 tax levy.

Shall the currently authorized millage rate limitation of 19.2595 mills ($19.2595 on each
$1,000 of taxable valuation) on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all
property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, in Mason
County Eastern District, Mason, Lake and Manistee Counties, Michigan, be renewed for
a period of 20 years, 2014 to 2033, inclusive, to provide funds for operating purposes; the
estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and
levied in 2014 is approximately $1,443,547 (this is a renewal of millage which will
expire with the 2013 tax levy)?

YES
NO

Vogue Theatre Update Returns

It's been over two years since the last Vogue Theatre Update.  What's happened during that time?  Why did construction stop?  How many screens will there be?  When does the Vogue re-open?

Find out during the Vogue Theatre Update, presented by the Three Pines Gander.  Listen for the VTU during the Five o'Clock Show, Fridays, on the radio service of the Three Pines Gander.  Online at http://threepinesgander.com

Watch this space for Series 1 (2011) of the Vogue Theatre Update!

The Heat Left Us Cold - Movie Review

We flew to Benzie County to see a movie. You can read our review in the local rag:

http://elberta-alert.org/2013/07/29/the-heat-left-us-cold/

Manistee Power Outage

"The Cooling Center located at Little River Casino and Resort, at 2700 Orchard Highway in Manistee, has NOW become [an] OVERNIGHT shelter where those in need of relief from the heat can stay overnight." -Kevin Bavers of the American Red Cross, Northwest Michigan

The Manistee News Advocate reports that repair work on a faulty transformer may take longer than expected, with power restoration estimated at 11pm tonight.

Final Performances of Peter Pan

Did you miss the broadcast of our Peter Pan stories? Hear Parts 1, 2 & 3 here: https://soundcloud.com/user698900797/sets/behind-the-scenes-of-peter-pan

Three performances left (tonight, Saturday and Sunday) - for more information, visit http://manisteecivicplayers.org/

Fourth of July Radio Schedule

Children of the Enlightenment: The Ideological Origins of Black Agency and Activism

Includes a dramatic reading of an excerpt from Frederick Douglass' speech "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" by actor Roger Guenveur Smith. 

Complete Smithsonian program video is here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-igWvjLEYE

Text of Frederick Douglass speech here:  http://edsitement.neh.gov/launchpad-frederick-douglass-what-slave-fourth-july

Repeat schedule late tonight:
Midnight-2am - Stan Freberg's "United States of America"

2am - Gettysburg: a Comedy

Poetry of Samiya Bashir here:  http://samiyabashir.com/

Behind the Scenes of Peter Pan

Click button (white arrow in orange circle) to hear!






Peter Pan continues
at the Ramsdell Theatre
July 5, 6 & 7
For more information, visit
http://manisteecivicplayers.org

Frack! Frack! Frack! A Time to Think

COMMENTARY

by Vince Hancock

As we try to get handle on the consequences of fracking, we wonder if we'll have time to understand them before a basic element of life is locked away.  Water, in bottled form, was a hot topic a few years ago, until activists succeeded in 2009 in limiting Nestle's pumping of water for its Ice Mountain business.  Why should the various sources of our tap water get sucked up by a company that wants to sell it back to us?, was one question raised.  

Five years later, it appears that tap water (groundwater is another name for the water that comes out of your faucet) is being threatened by another industry.  This time, it's not an industry that wants to give it back in attractive packaging for drinking purposes.  Instead, the fracking industry appears to want millions (possibly billions) of groundwater as a disposable tool.  Just as the typical carwash sprays high-pressure water from a hose, mixes it with soap and renders that water unfit for drinking, fracking seems to do the same thing in order to break rocks apart underground.  The chemicals mixed with water during the fracking process are generally considered to be toxic.     

You may have heard about one Canadian company, Encana, and its fracking operation in Kalkaska County.  Two weeks ago, the Traverse City Record Eagle's Matt Troutman reported that the company ran out of groundwater to use and had to buy more from local governments.  

Our colleagues at the Elberta Alert brought our attention to this additional story, by Jeff Alexander at Bridge Magazine, which elaborates on the current (and future) fracking plans in Kalkaska County.

The article implies that "northern Michigan" water may be up for grabs - beyond that of Kalkaska County.  It's hard to know, at the moment, if this is an immediate threat or a future threat.  It appears that more fracking than ever is planned for the coming months.  Can it even be stopped - or temporarily paused - so that the actual benefits and risks can be examined?  

One item at the end of the article leaped at us:  that the natural gas eventually produced by fracking may not be sold back to us by Encana (thus potentially lowering natural gas prices further and making us more self-reliant - one of the arguments for fracking).  Instead, it could be sold to China, which may be willing to pay top-dollar to the Canadian company. 

In that case, what could Michiganders get in exchange for its own reservoir of natural gas?  Fouled, undrinkable groundwater.  Maybe we'll all be forced into buying Nestle's Ice Mountain bottled water, after all. 

The only choice?

Benefit Dinners Today for Scott & Reed Families

Today, two benefit dinners allow you to take a break from kitchen patrol and help out your neighbors.

In Manistee, the dinner to help out the Scott family is just getting started and lasts until 5pm. Darcy Scott has had some brain surgeries recently. The Benefit Spaghetti Dinner will be at the St. Joseph Civic Club in Manistee. $8 adults, $4 for 12 & under. 4 & under free. Includes a 50/50 drawing and silent auction. Local band "Awesome Distraction" will be there. What if you have plans on Sunday or what if you're allergic to spaghetti? Just visit 5th Avenue Beach - "Eddie D's Beach & Eat" is open - guess who runs it? Darcy and Eddie would be glad to have your business. Questions? Donations? Call Kevin or Dottie at 723-1092.

In Bear Lake, from 3-7pm, the Bear Lake Leos (youth division of the Lions club) are holding a Sloppy Joe dinner to benefit the family of Larry Reed. He was seriously injured several weeks ago when a tree fell on him during a logging accident. He is gradually improving. The dinner also includes potato salad, baked beans, a beverage plus Jello and cake. Admission is by donation. Held at the Bear Lake Lions Den, downtown, directly off US-31.  For more information, contact Duwane at 383-2365.

Behind the Scenes of Peter Pan - Part 2

Rehearsal of Peter Pan at the Ramsdell Theatre
(click on picture to enlarge)

Behind the Scenes of Peter Pan - Part 2 airs tonight during the Five o'Clock Show, 5:00pm (Eastern time) at http://threepinesgander.com and http://radionomy.com/threepinesgander.  To start playing the audio, be sure to click the arrow button in the middle of the radio player box.

Did you miss the broadcast?  Listen here:

Behind the Scenes of Peter Pan - Part 1

Rehearsal of Peter Pan at the Ramsdell Theatre
(click on picture to enlarge)

Behind the Scenes of Peter Pan - Part 1 airs tonight at 7:30pm (Eastern time) at http://threepinesgander.com and http://radionomy.com/threepinesgander.  To start playing the audio, be sure to click the arrow button in the middle of the radio player box.

Did you miss the broadcast?  Listen here:

Gallodoro 100th Birthday Concert - tonight!

Al Gallodoro - known to many as the "World's Greatest Saxophonist" has been gone for almost 5 years, but tonight, the radio service of the Three Pines Gander simulcasts a special concert to commemorate the 100th year of his birth.

Originating from the B-Side Ballroom & Supper Club in Oneonta, New York, tonight at 8pm, on the radio service of the Three Pines Gander. Online at threepinesgander.com and radionomy.com/threepinesgander

Donate to the Al Gallodoro Music Memorial Fund via Paypal by clicking on this link.

(https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=rNj9A7wnvJo11ZJe-H8AnL-0EO7iojL0yLxn8i68dnSnfUt5-qwHTIYRyEa&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1f8e263663d3faee8d4e181b3aff599f99e8c17bd6c7fe2f56)

Live Broadcast - from the North Shore

Seeking a Rare Spare!

Kay Weber Miller is looking for her spare tire - have you seen it?

She writes, "ISO my spare tire from my horse trailer! Lost possibly anywhere along 31 north of manistee to 11 mile, or even in manistee. Help please. Not easy to find them tires at that size used. 15 in. on a blue ford rim. It would be so greatly appreciated if anyone could PM me if they find it! Thank you!"

She can be reached at (231) 383-2749, or you can send her a message through her Facebook account, at: https://www.facebook.com/kay.w.miller1

Five o'Clock Show - Links

The Five o'Clock Show is underwritten by Port City Organics of Manistee.

Links mentioned on the program:

http://archive.org/details/Stormwater

http://record-eagle.com/local/x2113329632/Fracking-water-falls-short

http://archive.org/details/FilmwonkPodcast-Episode30-promisedLanddir.GusVanSantdjango

Listen NOW for a prize!

Looking for something to do tonight?  Do you live in the Bear Lake area?  Would you like to learn about an effort that needs your help?  Special announcement in about 10 minutes at the radio service of the Three Pines Gander!

Tune in at http://threepinesgander.com (see upper right corner of screen, click on arrow/play button to listen) or http://radionomy.com/threepinesgander.

Radio Service - Three Pines Gander - Phase II

For the next few days, we have the hood up at the radio service of the Three Pines Gander. Now's your chance to tell us what you'd like to hear more of, less of and when you want to hear it! 

Do you want to host your own show (from home, no experience required)? Tell us what your friends and neighbors ought to get a chance to hear!

Here's the schedule we've used from December through May.

WEEKDAYS (Monday - Thursday)

5am World Music

6am Pop Music - Sponsored by Lardoon Enterprises

7am Country Classics

9am Jazz

Noon Latin Salsa Lunch Hour

1pm World Music

2pm Pop Music - Sponsored by Lardoon Enterprises

3pm Electronic

4pm Metal

5pm New Wave

6pm Jazz

9pm Blues Music - Sponsored by Luxe Redux

11pm World Music

12am Pop Music - Sponsored by Lardoon Enterprises

1am Chill Out

2am Blues Music - Sponsored by Luxe Redux

4am Jazz



FRIDAYS (Same schedule as weekdays, with the following differences)

4pm - Fantastic Fern in the Afternoon - Sponsored by Niizh Makwa Traders

5pm - The Five o'Clock Show - Sponsored by Port City Organics



WEEKENDS (Same schedule as weekdays, with the following differences)


Saturday

6:30pm Shortwave Report with Dan Roberts

7-9pm Punk, Pop & New Wave

9pm Jazz

10pm-midnight Radiola with Andy Senior

Midnight Blues


Sunday

9am & 5pm Shortwave Report with Dan Roberts

7pm The Jack Benny Program

7:30-9:30pm Radiola with Andy Senior


What are we missing? Tell us here or drop us a line at threepinesgander@gmail.com. Thank you!

Five o'Clock Show (5/17/13)

Theme song by BK Curtis of Minnesota

See and hear more of his work here.  http://www.youtube.com/user/speakoutbrad

Orchard Hill Relief
The Manistee County adult foster care center, in Brethren, burned in February.  Over $700 was raised to replace personal supplies lost in the fire.  Dave Barrett of Kaleva Meats helped to arrange a fundraiser shortly after the fire.  His employee, Danielle, picked up the items and delivered them to Elizabeth Christian, co-owner and manager of Orchard Hills.  All items were distributed to residents, as of the week before last.

Missing in Michigan

In the last five months, at least 8 men, women and children in Michigan have gone missing, and have still not been found. Muskegon County's Jessica Heeringa (25 years old, from Norton Shores) was the most recent case just two weeks ago - the gas station employee is still probably the most well-known. Since January 1 of this year, the following have gone missing.

The links below each name lead to photos, descriptions and discussion by volunteer investigators:

Christina Balog, 43, Westland, 11 February
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=199246

Fred Byrne, 49, Big Rapids, 12-Feb
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=198903&page=4

Keyaira Gay, 18, Detroit, 15 February
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=199921

Isha Grier, 15, Riley Township, 26 February
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=201739v 

Latrice Maze, 26, Grand Rapids, 19 March 2013
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=204874 

Aaron Idle, 30, Owosso, 23 March
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=203954&page=2

Tayonna Dody, 13, Detroit, 26 March
http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=203712

New Music

Jack Conte's music videos, including the one for "Pedals," may rival the songs themselves.  He's got robots, a ton of instruments and other surprises in each one.  More here:  http://www.youtube.com/user/jackcontemusic

Speaking of automation, take a look at his new way to support a variety of creative artists:  http://patreon.com

Do you know these names?  Tim Krause, Detour, Cheryl Wolfram, Triple Shot, Marty Yaple, White Wolf Black Bear, Sufferin' Suckatash.  Keep an eye open for them and other local musicians over the coming months.  See http://visitmanisteecounty.com for the Event Calendar.  We'll feature more of their music in future programs.

"Same Twelve Bars" performed by Cherri & the Violators (voc. Cheryl Wolfram)

"Are You Sure?" (last weekend), Benzie County Players

It's at the Mills Community House in Benzonia.  Tonight at 7:30, Saturday at 7:30 and Sunday matinee at 2pm.  $10 adults, $5 students - at the door.  

Best wishes to the fellow who portrays our "Guy in the Sky" from time to time. Guy Titsworth is recuperating in the hospital following a stroke on Wednesday.

"Thrift Shop" instrumental by Bram Van Hecke, (19 years old, from Belgium):  http://www.youtube.com/user/breemdemeeen 

The 5 o'Clock Show is brought to you by Port City Organics, Manistee's Real Food Market & Wellness Center, on First St.  (231) 398-3060.

The 5 o'Clock Show (5/17/13), brought to you by Port City Organics

In 6 days (next Friday, May 17), the 5 o'Clock Show returns after taking its first baby steps.  We're going to spill the beans now so that you can participate if you so choose.  Our topics:  

-Orchard Hill Relief - The Manistee County adult foster care center, in Brethren, burned in February.  Over $700 was raised to replace personal supplies lost in the fire.  Have supplies been purchased yet?  When will they be distributed?  An update on our April 29 story.

-Missing in Michigan - Besides Jessica Heeringa of Muskegon County, 8 other men, women and children have disappeared since January 1 of this year, and have not yet been found.  Do you know their names or what they look like?  Or have you been busy making your own Charles Ramsey mash-ups?  Why does creativity, energy and attention find its way to some crises but not others?  Do we spend too much time celebrating heroes instead of taking turns being heroes?  You tell me.    

-Robotic Music - Jack Conte's just released a new album.  He's also half of the duo Pomplamoose, which includes Nataly Dawn.  She's about to launch a European tour.  Both are trying a new method of earning money for their music videos and performances.  After decades of cutting staff within the industry, could automation now be used to add more people to the mixture of media and music?  Plus a few northern Michigan musicians that you should know about.  

-Low Power FM - In October of this year, the FCC will allow communities to set up their own small radio stations.  How can northern Michigan take advantage of this opportunity and why is the Three Pines Gander a cheerleader for this project?  What about the cost?  

Let us know what you think about these topics via voicemail (call anytime before next Friday):  (231) 794-2374

The 5 o'Clock Show - it lives up to its name. Underwritten by Port City Organics, Manistee's Real Food Market & Wellness Center.

Listen online at http://threepinesgander.com or http://radionomy.com/three-pines-gander via computer, tablet or smartphone. Details on how to listen on an FM radio coming soon.

Late Winter to Early Spring 2013

From South Shore Drive, looking north (early March)

Aldo Leopold writes of the returning geese in A Sand County Almanac (1949):

A March morning is only as drab as he who walks in it without a glance skyward, ear cocked for geese.  I once knew an educated lady, banded by Phi Beta Kappa, who told me that she had never heard or seen the geese that twice a year proclaim the revolving seasons to her well-insulated roof.  Is education possibly a process of trading awareness for things of lesser worth?  The goose who trades his is soon a pile of feathers.

From Lakeside Rd., looking west (early April)

A cardinal, whistling spring to a thaw but later finding himself mistaken, can retrieve his error by resuming his winter silence.  A chipmunk, emerging for a sunbath but finding a blizzard, has only to go back to bed.  But a migrating goose, staking two hundred miles of black night on the chance of finding a hole in the lake, has no easy chance for retreat.  His arrival carries the conviction of a prophet who has burned his bridges.

[It's 5:49pm.  Thurs. Apr. 4, 2013.  Just heard geese.]

From the north shore, looking south (mid-April)

Although they have been shot at most of the winter, as attested by their buckshot-battered pinions, they know that the spring truce is now in effect.  They wind the oxbows of the river, cutting low over the now gunless points and islands, and gabbling to each sandbar as to a long-lost friend.

From the north shore, looking south (late April)

Finally, after a few pro-forma circlings of our marsh, they set wing and glide silently to the pond, black landing-gear lowered and rumps white against the far hill.  Once touching water, our newly arrived guests set up a honking and splashing that shakes the last thought of winter out of the brittle cattails.  Our geese are home again!

A Sand County Almanac [and Sketches Here and There], Aldo Leopold, illus. Charles W. Schwartz, Oxford University Press, New York, 1949, pp. 18-19. 

Orchard Hill Fire Relief Coming Soon

It's been a few months in coming, but the collection of new personal supplies for Orchard Hill residents will arrive shortly.  This afternoon, Kaleva Meats owner Dave Barrett confirmed that funds raised for the displaced residents of the assisted living complex will be spent over the next few days and items distributed within a few weeks.  "It should have been done already," said Barrett.

A benefit dinner was held shortly after a fire broke out at Orchard Hill in February.  Residents were moved to other homes, but items such as razors, combs and pajamas were lost in the blaze.  Barrett said that scheduling difficulties between Kaleva Meats and Orchard Hill had caused the delay, but said he looked forward to completing the project.  "We do a lot of donations and benefits," he said.  His own out-of-pocket contributions covered the basic food items for the dinner, which was held at the Kaleva Lions Den and brought in over $700.

 Barrett said his wife, Beth, and a representative from Orchard Hill will purchase the supplies together, to guarantee proper disbursement of funds and careful distribution. Staff from Orchard Hill were not immediately available for comment.

The Three Pines Gander will update this story as more information becomes available.

Controlled Burn at Arcadia Marsh

The smoke in the air isn't leaves burning, or at least, not only that.  The haze over Bear Lake and other neighboring communities is coming from Arcadia.  After returning from a drive to investigate for themselves, Bill and Cheryl Lindeman of Bear Lake reported that a controlled burn at Arcadia Marsh has been underway since the early afternoon, in order to eliminate invasive species.  They said workers with the company doing the work are igniting specific areas with flamethrowers.  Wild rice was apparently also discovered, they said.

155 acres of Arcadia Marsh are owned by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, which is conducting the controlled burn as part of the restoration activities it began three years ago. More information at: http://www.gtrlc.org/land-stewardship-project/arcadia-marsh-restoration/

See TV news coverage of the controlled burn, below:

http://www.9and10news.com/story/22101355/controlled-burn-will-help-revitalize-native-species-in-arcadia-marsh

http://www.upnorthlive.com/news/story.aspx?id=890930

Seeking Volunteer Radio Program Hosts

Seeking volunteer radio program hosts. Designed for those who can't participate in existing media opportunities (WNMC in Traverse City, Lakeshore LAVA at WSCC) or need more flexibility, due to work/personal schedule or transportation issues.

To apply, please provide a short paragraph about the weekly show you'd most like to do, including the music genre(s) or audio type. Also, tell us: how would this be different from other local programs on the air? what type of show would you definitely not want to do, and why? your favorite color.

Please reply by email: threepinesgander@gmail.com

2011 Tax Changes Hit Home in 2013

The side effects of cutting out the Michigan Business Tax (MBT) nearly two years ago are now being felt by some individuals across the state at tax time: "[p]arents, retirees, homeowners and the working poor," according to the Kalamazoo Gazette/MLive. 

For at least one Manistee County taxpayer--an 83-year old widow--about $500 is owed to Lansing for 2011 taxes, as opposed to a small refund check in prior years.  A local tax office confirms that others within the county are seeing similar changes and reports that brown postcards reminded taxpayers of the changes' general effect.

In May 2011, the MBT was eliminated [1], but state lawmakers made sure that the revenue came from, or was held back, from other sources: "implementation of the Pension Tax, the reduction of the Homestead Property Tax Credit and the elimination of the $600 per-child tax deduction and the $2,300 exemption for seniors, among other changes. The Earned Income Tax Credit has been cut from 20 percent of the federal EITC to 6 percent" [2].

Representative Ray Franz and Senator Darwin Booher voted for the 2011 legislation [3, 4], but five Republican Senators voted against it: Sens. Rick Jones of Grand Ledge, Tory Rocca of Sterling Heights, Joe Hune of Hamburg Township, Dave Hildenbrand of Lowell and Jack Brandenburg of Harrison Township, reports MLive's Capitol bureau [5]. Those same five Republicans now propose a new bill to reinstate the full Homestead Property Tax Credit and to cut the pension tax. House Democrats also support those two measures [6].

The state webpage describing the 2011's changes to the Homestead Property Tax identifies who would lose the credit:

The groups most likely to experience a change in their credit from the 2011 tax year are:

• Seniors (65 & Older)

• Taxpayers with Total Household Resources over $50,000, and

• Homeowners whose property has a taxable value over $135,000  [7]

The webpage says that the credit is "calculated differently" but a change in wording and definitions is involved as much as mathematics. "Total Household Resources" has replaced "Total Household Income" as one of the criteria examined. The new "Resources" term appears to allow for taxing certain things exempted by federal taxes, and does not account for personal business losses.

1. http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/05/gov_rick_snyder_signs_michigan.html

2. http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2013/03/state_tax_increases_hitting_mo.html

3. http://votesmart.org/bill/votes/35095#.UWRp8KJg848

4. http://votesmart.org/bill/votes/35094#.UWRseaJg848

5. http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/03/group_of_republican_senators_s.html

6. http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/04/michigan_state_budget_democrat.html

7. https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/0,1607,7-238-43535_43538---,00.html

Blue Slipper Closes Amid Reshuffled Restaurants

Update (4/12/13, 1:45pm)

We've confirmed that Blarney Castle & Oil has plans for the Bear Lake Bar.  Bill McCarthy told us yesterday afternoon that the company is in the process of purchasing the property.  Since the company wants to spend an appropriate amount of time consulting with those experienced in the restaurant industry, McCarthy does not expect a re-opening this summer.

Original story published 4/6/13, 8:08pm

The Blue Slipper Bistro of Onekama has closed.

Chef Brian Kissel announced the news late this afternoon through the restaurant's Facebook page. Kissel cited the recent passing of his wife, Cheryl Kissel, as well as medical bills and debt. The couple had full insurance for themselves and their children up until about a year ago, when they cut back on their coverage following their children's graduation from high school. They planned to use the savings to stabilize their business. Cheryl passed away unexpectedly in late December. 

Brian and Cheryl Kissel

The restaurant had been closed since January. At first, Brian Kissel planned to re-open either this month or next, but said today that "it's time to move on." 

In his online note, Kissel said, "the Blue Slipper has fulfilled its duty by supporting my family for 13 years, putting my children through high school, college and careers to the future. Thanks everyone for the support over the years, we couldn't have made without all the customer support. LOVE TO ALL." Kissel said he's putting the business up for sale but hopes to continue to live and work in the area.

Brian Kissel talked to the Three Pines Gander about the challenges of running the Blue Slipper below (click arrow to listen).

The closure comes four months after the Bear Lake Bar shut its doors, following Dave Long's retirement. There are unconfirmed reports that Blarney Castle Oil & Propane of Bear Lake has plans for that bar.

Meanwhile, Grille 44 (formerly named the Ice Shanty), at the opposite end of Bear Lake, is accepting applications for cooking and wait staff, and could open before the end of the month. Its owners, the Buckner family, also own and operate the adjacent Saddle Up Gas & Grocery and Traks Bar & Grill in Brethren.

Blue Slipper Bistro sidewalk sign

(Photos from Blue Slipper Bistro Facebook page)

Fantastic Fern in the Afternoon - Friday, March 29

Fantastic Fern in the Afternoon is taking a day off for the Easter holiday but will be back next Friday.

For the next hour, we have an unusual Easter offering for you. Yet another example of community radio, this time coming from Eugene, Oregon and station KWVA 88.1 FM. Marc Time is your host - and he's still on the air after 10 years, playing obscure and forgotten popular music from the early 1900s up to present day sounds. You can find a link to his current shows, including playlists, here:  http://spinitron.com/radio/playlist.php?station=kwva&djuid=34

For now, here's Marc Time with "The Sunday Morning Hangover” from a few years back, "Robots and Easter Bunnies" episode. This first hour has mostly an Easter Theme, and is courtesy of http:/archive.org.  You can find part two of the program here:  http://archive.org/details/RobotsAndEasterBunnies

Tonight - Steubenville Panel Discussion Simulcast

(Note:  comments continue to be welcome by calling the phone number below.  We'll present them at a later date!  Thanks for listening.)

Two boys have been convicted of raping a girl in Steubenville, Ohio. What are the other consequences of their actions and our reactions?

Tonight, the radio service of the Three Pines Gander simulcasts a panel discussion presented by V-Day and The Nation. Panelists include journalist and teacher Jimmie Briggs, president of Coach for America and former football player Joe Ehrmann, A Call to Men co-founder Tony Porter, and Sports Editor at The Nation Dave Zirin, with a special introduction by musician and co-chair of the NoVo Foundation Peter Buffett, and moderated by Eve Ensler.

"Breaking The Male Code: After Steubenville, A Call To Action," airs at 7:30pm, followed by your comments. Could something like this happen in Manistee County? Has it already? Are there significant differences between the culture of northern Michigan and eastern Ohio? Record your comments by calling (231) 794-2374. We'll air them after the panel discussion.

That's tonight at 7:30, at threepinesgander.com or radionomy.com/three-pines-gander

Manistee's Spring & All Music Festival

Help celebrate springtime in Manistee, Michigan and revitalize the community, too!


Festival scheduled for Saturday, March 23 at the Ramsdell Theatre & Ballroom.  Doors open at 11:30am, tickets $10 at the door (12 years old and under are free).  Music runs from noon to midnight.

As of Mar. 18 (4:30pm), the festival is completely funded.  (105%, including community portion & anonymous donor pledge of $1,500).

As of Mar. 17 (4pm), the festival is 79% funded with 77 backers.(105% of community portion funded, anonymous donor has pledged $1,500 if the community can raise $4,500).
As of Mar. 15 (12:30am), the festival is 63% funded with 66 backers.(84% of community portion funded, anonymous donor has pledged $1,500 if the community can raise $4,500).
As of Mar. 13 (2pm), the festival is 54% funded with 53 backers.(72% of community portion funded, anonymous donor has pledged $1,500 if the community can raise $4,500).
As of Mar. 9 (1pm), the festival is 37% funded with 36 backers.
As of Mar. 6 (8pm), the festival is 33% funded with 35 backers.
As of Mar. 3 (5:15pm), the festival is 31% funded with 29 backers.
As of Mar. 2 (4pm), the festival is 29% funded with 27 backers.

As of Feb. 26 (6:30pm), the festival is 28% funded with 24 backers.
As of Feb. 26 (11:00am), the festival is 25% funded!

Any amount accepted. Pledge here:
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/246333688/manistees-spring-and-all-music-festival?ref=live

"9 to 5" opens at the Ramsdell Theatre

"9 to 5" at the Ramsdell Theatre, presented by the Manistee Civic Players! Friday, March 8 and 9th at 7:30pm, and Sunday the 10th at 2pm. Continues Mar. 15 & 16 (7:30pm) and Mar. 17 (2pm).

Order tickets during business hours at 1-800-836-0717, in person at the Ramsdell box office after Noon, or anytime online at www.manisteecivicplayers.org. Or look for the link at threepinesgander.com.

*The radio service of the Three Pines Gander is a demonstration of what community radio could sound like. Low-power FM (LPFM) is a nationwide project recently approved by the FCC. The first major deadline is October 15, 2013. For more information, drop us a line at threepinesgander@gmail.com