Celebrating the Boating Lifestyle.

volume 34 | spring 12
walstrom.com
docklines
Celebrating the Boating Lifestyle.
• Tiara 3600 Coronet
• Pursuit ST310
• Chris Craft
• Hatteras 100
– Cheboygan 25th Anniversary
– 9th Annual Summer Cruise
– Port of Call: Elk Rapids
Sharing your passion for boating since 1946
Table of Contents
From the Pilot House
Walstrom 9th Annual Summer Cruise
While You Were Away
2012 Calendar
Celebrating 25 Years in Cheboygan
Tiara 3600 Coronet
Island Spirit
Hatteras New GT63
Retrofitting Incandescent Nav Lamps
Port of Call: Elk Rapids
ST310 Pursuit
News from Rivertown
Tiara 45 Sovran
Grand Banks Customer Profile
Following the Money Trail
High Hopes, Low Lake Levels
Chris Craft
Hatteras 100 Raised Pilothouse
What Do You Do All Winter?
Tiara Anticipation 5000
Bay Harbor Update
Walstrom Marine Promotes Duray
Meet David Lesh
Welcome to the Walstrom Fuel Dock
Previously Owned Boats
The Boat House of Harbor Springs
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5
6
7
8
10
12
14
15
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
29
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32
34
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39
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docklines
Docklines is a publication of Walstrom Marine, Inc.
Editor:
Assistant Editor:
Contributing Editors:
Courtesy Photos:
Justin Bassett
Anna LaRue
Ward Walstrom Jr., David Lyle,
Brian Granger, Joe Kuchnicki,
Charlie Duray,
Hi Stover, Heidi Hayner,
Heather Conaway
Stephanie N. Baker,
Harbor Light Newspaper,
Elk Rapids Chamber,
Harbor Springs Chamber,
Jackie Weber
Walstrom Marine – Sales Office: 500 Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.2141 • boats@walstrom.com
1.877.245.9696
Harbor Springs Service: 501 Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.9663 • service1@walstrom.com
1.877.245.9696
Walstrom Marine Accounting: 501 Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.9190 • jbeach@walstrom.com
Cheboygan – Storage, Service, Sales & Dockage:
113 East State Street, Cheboygan, MI 49721
231.627.6681 • cheboygan@walstrom.com
1.877.245.9702
Bay Harbor – Sales Office & Propellers Lifestyle Store: 801 Front Street,
Suite A, Bay Harbor, MI 49770
Sales: 231.439.2741 • Propellers 231.439.2740
bayharbor@walstrom.com
1.877.245.9695
Propellers Lifestyle Store: 105 Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.6885 • propellers@walstrom.com
Advertising information: 231.526.2141 or marketing@walstrom.com
Editorial contributions are welcome and should be addressed to the Editor
at marketing@walstrom.com or via post to sales office above.
Docklines is printed once a year: spring/summer.
Designed, produced and printed by Mitchell Graphics, Inc.
To be placed on our mailing list, please contact Lynn Steffens
at 231.526.2141 or lsteffens@walstrom.com
For billing questions contact jbeach@walstrom.com
Be sure to switch your address when you move
north or south jbeach@walstrom.com
Sharing your passion for boating since 1946
From the Pilot House
Sharing Your Passion for Boating Since 1946
By David Lyle, Walstrom Marine President
25
years ago it was a small store next to
the Cheboygan bridge with 300-ft.
of vacant riverfront. There were no
slips, no storage buildings, no travel lift, work
slip, and no boats. Then we went to work.
Today we have 88,000 square ft. of storage
space, a 70-ton Marine Travel Lift, a proper
work slip, and 40 docks on the Cheboygan
River. At our Cheboygan location we can now
dock and haul boats up to 80-ft.
And what did we do this last year? We are
happy to announce our continued 5 Star
Marine Industry Certification, our new Pursuit
Flagship Dealer designation, our Tiara Platinum
service status, and our Hatteras Bronze sales
award. We also trained and certified Captains
from our staff, we redecorated our Cheboygan
office, graduated our management staff from
the AHA Leadership Training, created a new
Mission Statement from our team’s core values,
and began work on our new certified used boat
program. In these pages you’ll see a plethora
of new product and initiatives. By improving
our skills and process, we can exceed your
expectations every time.
W alstr o m M ari n e
Mission Statement/Commitment
to Excellence
So that my friends, is the ‘what’ of what we do.
Kenneth Grahame explained the ‘why’ of it
in Wind in the Willows:
“There is nothing…Absolutely nothing…half
so much worth doing as simply messing about
in boats.”
See you on the waterfront this summer.
Gurney’s
Bottle shop
Walstrom Marine is passionate about our pursuit of
excellence as a leader in the marine business. Through
teamwork and understanding, we have earned the
trust of our employees, customers and competitors.
We are committed to achieve EXCELLENCE
in all areas of our business.
We are committed to the level of PASSION necessary to
sustain enthusiasm for our business for the long haul.
We are committed as a TEAM, to
achieve our mutual success.
We are committed to INNOVATION and creative
solutions to the challenges of our business.
We are committed to listen, to help us to UNDERSTAND.
We are committed to maintaining the TRUST we have
earned in conducting our business for over sixty-five years.
4
wa lstr o m .c o m
215 E. Main Street
Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.5472
Summer
Cruise
Walstrom 9th Annual
August 5th-7th
A
fter several years of cruising to the popular North
Channel, cruise organizers decided that a change
of scene would be fun this year. In choosing Beaver
Island for the 9th Annual Cruise destination - for its unique
history, scenery, beaches and restaurants, as well as its relative
proximity - we hope to encourage those with smaller boats to
participate in the cruise, as well as those of you who have joined
us in years past. Beaver Island’s closer location also allows for a
shorter trip overall - another plus for those with time constraints
– so we hope you’ll all “Save the Date” and make plans to join us
this year!
August 5th: J oin us for Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the
downtown waterfront at Beaver Island.
August 6th:
Breakfast on the M/V ‘Ottawa’ with an
afternoon lunch and dinghy exploration of
the “Out Islands.” Dinner and Music at the
‘Lodge’.
August 7th: Farewell breakfast and departure.
wal st rom.com
5
While You Were Away
Breathing Life Back into the “Old Brewery”
We’ve all driven past it: the iconic four-story brick building located on M-119 between Petoskey
and Harbor Springs. The old-timers refer to it as the “old brewery”, harking back to pre-Prohibition
days when the original Petoskey Brewing Company produced thousands of barrels of Petoskey
Sparkle beer, packaged it in aqua-blue bottles and shipped it to waiting customers near and far.
Originally built in 1898, the building has been everything except a brewery since the teetotalers
had their way in 1919. However, it will soon return to its roots, as locals Lou Gostinger (D-dock
resident) and Patrick Dowd, who purchased the building in March, plan to restore it to its former
glory as a full-production craft brewery called Petoskey Brewing. With a target opening in July,
visitors will be able to taste “amazing craft beers (made) with pure artesian spring water” and partake
in light food offerings in the retail “Tap Room” located on the ground floor.
Follow Petoskey Brewing’s progress at www.petoskeybrewing.com.
Harbor Springs DDA at Work
In an effort to revitalize the City of Harbor Springs’ downtown, which in recent years has
struggled to maintain a year-round economy, the Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
was reactivated by the City Council in 2011. Originally formed in 1983 but inactive for the last
10 years, the DDA has worked over the winter developing strategies to enhance the downtown’s
appeal for both residents and visitors. After seeking input from various groups - including fulltime
and seasonal residents, the business community, and property owners - to identify concerns and
offer suggestions, the DDA solicited proposals from several consulting firms for a downtown
enhancement plan, with considerations for a new waterfront plan also included. Seven proposals
were received, and the DDA has hired a firm. The firm will solicit community input during the
summer with final planning documents from the selected firm to be received by October 2012.
New Dining Destination
Depot Club & Restaurant
Built in 1889 by the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad, the historic Harbor Springs Depot is
currently being meticulously restored by local builder Brian Shorter and will open this summer
as The Depot Club & Restaurant. Local caterer and owner of the Crow’s Nest Restaurant Bob
Vala will serve as head chef for the new Depot Club & Restaurant with special guest chefs from
the Culinary Institute of America making special appearances. Indoor and outdoor patio seating,
Sunday brunch, and live entertainment are in store for members and guests. www.depotclubhs.com
Photo Courtesy of Harbor Light Newspaper
Captain’s Class Graduates
Pictured here on Walstrom tug “Elizabeth” is the group that successfully completed the Captain’s
Class which took place in March at the Boathouse of Harbor Springs. The class was hosted by the
Boathouse and Walstrom Marine, with course Instructors and training provided by US Captain’s
Training.
Having successfully completed the course, these graduates now hold an Operator of Uninspected
Vessel (OUPV) License, aka “Six Pack License”. Holders of this license are permitted to carry up
to six paying passengers on uninspected vessels of up to 100 gross tons.
Judging by their smiles, it is evident that the group had an enjoyable as well as educational
experience. We extend our congratulations to them all!
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wa lstr o m .c o m
2012Calendar Dates
May
13 Mother's Day
19 Armed Forces Day
22 National Maritime Day
23 Harbor Springs Wine Festival
26 Opening Day BBQ – Harbor Springs Sales Center
28 Memorial Day
June
1 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins
5 World Environment Day
14 Flag Day
15-17 Bay Harbor In-Water Boat Show
17 Father's Day
20 First Day of Summer
July
2 Canada Day
4 Independence Day
14 Port Huron to Mackinac Race
21 Chicago to Mackinac Race
27-29 Little Traverse Bay Regatta, Harbor Springs
August
4-5 Bay Harbor Art Fair
5 Coastal Crawl, Harbor Springs
5 Walstrom Marine Annual Cruise
September
1 End of Season BBQ – Harbor Springs Sales Center
3 Labor Day
22 Taste of Harbor Springs
22 First Day of Autumn
October
8 Columbus Day
25-29 Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show
31 Halloween
November
4 Daylight Savings Time Ends
6 Election Day
11 Veterans Day
22 Thanksgiving
December
7 Pearl Harbor Day
22 First Day of Winter
25 Christmas
31 New Year's Eve
wal st rom.com
7
Celebrating
25
Years
in Cheboygan
Watch for news about our upcoming
25th Anniversary Celebration
in Cheboygan this July!
By Heather Conaway
I
n 1987, President Ronald Reagan was in the White House and the
price of gasoline was ninety-five cents per gallon. Whitney Houston
swept the 14th Annual American Music Awards, winning in five
categories. The Detroit Tigers, who had been eleven games back in
the American League, made a surprising late season comeback to win
the American League Eastern Division, and in northern Michigan,
development was on the horizon which would effectively alter the
landscape along the eastern bank of the Cheboygan River.
Walstrom Marine, which had been in operation in Harbor Springs
since 1946, was facing a dilemma. Customers began buying larger
boats and Walstrom could only store boats up to 60 feet long. The
maximum capacity of their Travelift was 30 tons. Further complicating
the issue, local zoning laws regulated the height of buildings, so even
the prospect of building larger storage facilities and purchasing a larger
lift was out of the question.
Ward Walstrom shared a story about a customer from Chicago to
whom he had sold a 53’ Hatteras. “He was interested in purchasing a
70’ Hatteras, but we were unable to store a boat that large,” Ward said.
“I told the customer, rather tongue-in-cheek, that if he purchased the
70’ Hatteras, we would buy a 70-ton lift. This wasn’t the impetus for
opening a second location, as we had already been discussing it, but the
timing was right and we proceeded with our plans.”
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wa lstr o m .c o m
Cheboygan was an ideal location to expand the company, with its
deep water harbor and close proximity to the Inland Waterway, the
North Channel, the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Island. It’s
a mere 17 miles by water to the Mackinac Bridge from Cheboygan,
and 67 miles by water to Harbor Springs. In 1987, Walstrom Marine
purchased 750’ of frontage on the Cheboygan River, erected an 18,000
square-foot heated storage building and purchased a 70-ton Travelift
in order to accommodate customers whose boats were too large to be
stored in Harbor Springs, as well as service a new clientele in Cheboygan
and from the surrounding areas.
“The local city officials were extremely cooperative and helpful to
us in developing the marina,” Ward recalled. “They really wanted
to see the town prosper and this was one project that helped the city
make a transition from industrial and commercial along the riverfront
to pleasure boating, along with the development of the Cheboygan
County Marina, and the nearby Duncan Bay Boat Club.”
Within the first year, Walstrom Dock and Dredge of Harbor Springs
had installed a work slip, and the steel wall for ten 60-foot slips, and the
new Cheboygan location also offered service, storage, a ship’s store and
sales. The first new boat sale in Cheboygan was in December, when a
new 28’ Bertram was delivered to a local customer.
Continued on page 50
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Standard equipment includes a Tiara custom
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10
wa lstr o m .c o m
safety glass and opening center vent, radar
arch, 45” swim platform with built-in ladder,
molded-in fiberglass bow pulpit, Tiara custom
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vinyl. The command station features the Tiara
EZ Tilt-Away® helm console (with full flush
mount electronics capability), stainless steel tilt
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Standard hull and deck color is Fresh White,
with Carbon color bootline and helm console/
dash. Optional custom hull and bootline
colors are available, and the helm/dash is also
available in Sand or Flag Blue color.
Optional equipment includes: Hardtop
with sunroof, or canvas soft top, Teak table
with sun pad filler for the transom lounge,
and a beautiful exterior Teak accent package
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wal st rom.com
11
Island Spirit
By Steve Arbaugh
S
taring down at a blank screen, I’m
thinking to myself, “Where do I even
start?”. I’m stuck on a plane, I have a
few hours to kill and a full charge on my iPad.
“Where do I start?”
Beaver Island has an incredible history. It
was settled first by Native Americans, then
by James Jesse Strang (King Strang) and his
Mormon followers, and, finally, by Irish
immigrants.
The best start, I suppose, is from the
beginning, which occurred a few months ago.
That would have been when Justin Bassett
called me with a request for a contribution
to this issue of Docklines about Beaver Island,
an article that coincides with the upcoming
Walstrom Annual Cruise destined for the
same locale. A simple, “I’d like to, Justin, I
really would, but I’m kinda busy...,” would
have sufficed. Honestly, I don’t feel qualified
to explain the historical nuances of “The
Beav” to potential visitors, let alone Walstrom’s
customers. I mean, there’s so much great
history there, but I’m no historian. Heck,
I can’t remember what I had for breakfast
yesterday. Still....the opportunity to share my
take on Beaver Island intrigued me. “OK,” I
said, my palms beginning to sweat. “When’s
the deadline...?” Geez, I’m such a sucker.
That, my friends, is as much history as
you’ll be able to extract from this article.
There has been much written about Beaver
Island and the characters that have lived and
died there over the years, and to regurgitate
it here hardly seems worthwhile. I urge those
unfamiliar with Beaver Island’s history to take
it upon themselves to read about it (Wikipedia
has very thorough information that’s a quick
read). There is a tour available that will take
interested folks in a van to see the island’s
historical spots (Beaver Island Tours 888-4464095- tour office is located across the street
from Municipal Marina), and well worth the
If you’ve never had the opportunity to visit
Beaver Island and its neighboring islands, and
if you may be strongly considering the WM
Cruise as the vehicle for your introduction,
congratulations. You won’t be disappointed.
As a visitor to the Island for many years, and
as a Walstrom Cruise veteran well familiar
with the incredible hospitality and thoughtful
event planning exhibited each year by the
management and staff of Walstrom Marine,
it occurs to me that the 2012 WM Cruise
to Beaver Island has the potential to be the
best ever.
12
wa lstr o m .c o m
time. This article will be dedicated more to
observations than to history. Here is, for better
or worse, my take on the Beaver Island area:
I love islands. Islands are cool. To me,
they represent a collective solitude, a positive
disconnection from our everyday, mainland
worlds. One must possess a self-confident,
self-reliant mentality to call a small island
home, but at the same time, one must be
aware of, and must react to, the immediate
needs of family, friends and neighbors. That’s
the only way it’ll work...all for one and one
for all. It’s been that way for centuries in
small kingdoms...and on small islands. Quite
frankly, many of the kindest and most caring
people I’ve ever known are from islands, and
this is especially true of Beaver Island. It is
much more than land surrounded by water, so
much more than just an offshore destination.
The 657 year-round Beaver Island residents
represent its soul...they are the island’s spirit.
It is that spirit that has kept me coming back
for many years, and it is, I’m quite sure, one
of the primary reasons that the Walstrom
planners chose Beaver Island as this year’s
Cruise destination. It’s an island spirit, and it’s
a spirit worthy of observing, and of embracing.
Beaver Island is a community that takes care
of its own. The Beaver Island Community
Center, complete with Performing Arts stage
and movie theatre, is located smack dab in the
middle of town. It was built with private funds
collected by the community at fundraisers
and from donations. There’s usually a vehicle
somewhere on the island (usually a Kubota
RTV in front of the Community Center or a
small Chevy in the parking lot at McDonough’s
Market...or both!) that’s being raffled off to
benefit the recently built Beaver Island Rural
Health Center, Community Center, or some
other equally worthy cause. There always
seems to be a fundraiser for this or that, on any
given day, and they are always well-attended
by islanders with checkbooks in hand. When a
significant and costly illness besets an Islander,
the community digs deep, and without fail,
always, always finds enough to cover the costs,
however great. And then some. My friends,
this island is cool. This island has a heart. We
are lucky to be its neighbor, and there is much
to learn here.
At 13 miles long and between three to six
miles wide, Beaver Island is the largest island in
Lake Michigan. The St. James harbor entrance
lies about 32 nautical miles from both Harbor
Springs and Charlevoix. The adage, “So close,
yet so far,” is, I think, defined by those 32
miles. It is amazing to me that there are so
many people who live in the Harbor Springs/
Petoskey/Charlevoix area that have never
visited Beaver Island. I’m talking about people
who’ve lived in this area for 30, 40, or 50 years.
Are you kidding me? Thirty-two miles! Yet, it is
those 32 miles that have helped Beaver Island
retain its charm and quirky innocence for so
long. I’ve often described the Island to the
uninitiated as its “own little country,” with its
own customs and habits.
My favorite: locals driving on the Island
wave at whomever is driving in the opposing
direction, or at the very least, acknowledge
them with a couple of fingers raised off the
steering wheel. It doesn’t matter if the driver of
the other car is known to that person, it’s just
common practice. And it’s contagious. What
a simple, positive act, acknowledging close
friends and complete strangers with a simple
wave. Every car. Every time. After a while, it
becomes habitual, automatic.
But after a week or so, you return to the
mainland, jump in your car and find yourself
waving to the driver of the first car you pass.
Sadly, there is no response, and you abruptly
realize that you’re home. Still, you smile inside.
Island spirit. So close, yet so far.
It is hoped that I’ve provided you with a
fairly good idea about the kind of people
you’re likely to meet on Beaver Island. Ready
to head over? Me, too! Let’s toss the lines and
get offshore! If we are departing from Harbor
Springs, we’d round Harbor Point and head
toward Cook Point, which is just past Forest
Beach and features a small spit of land jutting
out into the lake. Give this area a respectful
amount of berth, no less than three-quarters of
a mile, for it gets shallow and very rocky. Once
abeam Cook Point, set your course for 320
degrees magnetic. That course will get you, an
hour or so later, to a spot between the pair of
entrance buoys outside Paradise Bay, which is
the harbor on whose shore sits the island’s only
town, St. James.
Paradise Bay is an incredible natural
harbor, and boasts two marinas: Beaver Island
Municipal Marina (231-448-2252, VHF 16),
which is located in the “downtown” area (and
visible straight ahead as you enter the harbor),
and Beaver Island Marine (231-448-2300,
VHF 16), a privately owned marina located in
the Northeast corner of the harbor. If anchoring
is your preference, there is plenty of space in
the center of the harbor, and several boats
can usually be found here, both power and
sail, swinging on the hook. Beware, however,
of grassy areas that could conspire to prevent
a solid bite. If you decide to anchor, choose
your drop position by sight, go for lightercolored bottom and confirm the set. It isn’t
that dramatic, and boats have been anchoring
in this area since the 1800s, so fear not.
Now that we’ve arrived, it’s time to explore!
While most of the town is accessible by foot,
you may be inclined to check out other areas
of the island. If you want to rent a car, your
best bet is from Beaver Island Marine. The
owner, Patricia Anderson, has a few Geo
Trackers for rent. The island is definitely worth
driving around if you’ve never been there, but
Pat only has so many rental cars, so give her a
call early to reserve yours. If you decide to get
a car, don’t forget to wave!
Continued on page 58
wal st rom.com
13
Hatteras New
GT63
Enclosed
Flybridge
D
uring the 2012 Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show Hatteras
Yachts debuted the new GT63 Enclosed Flybridge. The latest
addition to the GT Series, its most noticeable feature is the
profile. The enclosed flybridge offers a luxurious, climate-controlled
helm deck — perfect for remaining comfortable and dry in the most
extreme weather. The generous helm station has room for up to
three main touch-screen monitors as well as ancillary controls and
communication equipment, and the elevated L-shaped lounge to port
provides a comfortable ride with a commanding view in any direction.
For maximum convenience and protection from the weather, an
optional interior stairwell is available. Aft of the enclosure is the
secondary helm station and bench seating with additional storage.
Whether you are cruising in the comfort of the enclosed flybridge, or
at the outside helm while watching the spread, the GT63 EFB offers
everything you need to enjoy your GT in style.
14
wa lstr o m .c o m
Like the other models in the GT Series, the GT63 Enclosed
Flybridge provides a great deal of comfort throughout — and does so
without compromising on performance. When powered by twin CAT
C32 ACERTS @ 1900hp, the GT63 Enclosed Flybridge sports 40
knot speed at WOT in a real-world environment. This performance
is made possible by utilizing resin infusion technology in our solid
fiberglass bottom hulls. This provides increased strength while
allowing the boat to be much lighter than a traditional hand-laid
vessel. Achieving these speeds while preserving our legendary ride, the
GT Series represents the next generation in hull design from Hatteras.
The amenities aboard the GT63 Enclosed Flybridge do not end
at the salon door. Like its siblings, the GT63 EFB is a best-in-class
tournament convertible. Its cockpit is proof of that — sized and
equipped to meet the high standards of the most experienced anglers.
In addition to clever stowage for everything from tackle and rods to
RETROFITTING
Incandescent Nav Lamps
with LED Bulbs is
Unsafe, Illegal
Published on the GLAngler.com website – Reprinted with permission
P
EACHTREE, GA – With all the power-saving and longevity
benefits of LED lights, it’s easy to see why boat owners replace
traditional light bulbs with LEDs. But doing so with navigation
lights can violate the fixture’s certifications. This has serious consequences,
as US Inland Navigation Rules and International Navigation Rules
carry the force of federal law.
gaffs, there’s an optional recirculating livewell in the transom, twin
refrigerated fish boxes, and an optional drop-down wing station with
clutch and throttle controls.
“Thanks to intelligent engineering, innovative layouts and
advancements in construction technology and hull design, the new
Hatteras GT63 Enclosed Flybridge and the rest of the models in
the GT Series are sure to thrill anyone looking for performance,
style, and luxury,” states Karl Kemppainen, vice president of sales
and marketing for Hatteras Yachts.
“The GT 63EFB is a wonderful addition to the GT Series. This
exciting family of tournament-class convertibles is designed for
serious anglers and offers best-in-class performance, unforgettable
styling, and a construction pedigree that has made Hatteras the gold
standard.”
“A certified navigation light fixture is a combination of a specific
lens, a specific bulb and the necessary foundation and wiring. The boat
owner or operator must ensure that when bulb replacement is necessary,
only the original type bulb is used,” said Phil Cappel, chief of the US
Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch. “Any
substitutions can result in the light no longer meeting the Navigation
Rule requirements.”
A wide variety of replacement bulbs are available, including LED
bulb conversion kits. Simply finding one that fits the fixture won’t
assure the boater of a properly certified navigation light, unless the lamp
manufacturer has third party-certified it for their own lamp. Cappel
notes that compliance with the Navigation Rules is the boat operator’s
responsibility, not the bulb manufacturer’s.
Industry specifications and certifications are in place for safety.
Though seemingly simple, the red, white and green navigation lights
are thoroughly tested by a third party for light intensity, color, angles of
visibility, corrosion and temperature. “The lamp assemblies are designed
and tested with a specific light source,” said Brian Goodwin, technical
director for the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC).
Precise tests determine if light reaches nautical mile requirements.
Light output must also be sharp at the edges and smooth across the
arcs of visibility. This prevents light from appearing to flash like a buoy
rather than project consistently when the boat rotates and rocks.
Goodwin notes that there are other causes of failure if the owner
replaces a bulb with one other than the original type. For example, LEDs
installed in a housing intended for a hot bulb may dim unexpectedly.
“Unless approved and tested by the light fixture manufacturer, LED
retrofit bulbs do not belong in navigation lights,” he said.
“Flaunting the law risks lives, insurance and liability,” said Jeremy
Singleton, Hella marine global manager. “The USCG and ABYC
take navigation lighting very seriously. They are considered life-saving
devices to avoid collisions at sea and on inland waterways.”
The simple solution for owners wishing to upgrade to LED navigation
lights is to replace the entire light assembly with a certified product.
This ensures their navigation lights are safe, and legal.
wal st rom.com
15
Port of Call:
By Anna LaRue
I
Highway 131, with the grocery store, schools,
banks, and gas stations located for the most
part on the east side of the highway, the area
is easily accessible either by a pleasant stroll on
the riverwalk which passes under the highway;
or via the marina shuttle, if you’re on a major
grocery-shopping excursion or out to sample
the Cajun cuisine at the popular “Pearl’s New
Orleans Kitchen”.
f you’re looking for a Lake Michigan port to
explore that you may not have considered
before, think about the Village of Elk
Rapids. Located 30 miles south of Charlevoix
and 15 miles north of Traverse City, the village
is seemingly surrounded by water. With East
Grand Traverse Bay to the west, the Elk River
running through town, and Elk Lake to the eastone of the Chain of Lakes of Antrim County
with 78 miles of navigable waters - you’re never
far from the opportunity to boat, swim, or fish
while in Elk Rapids. And besides offering some
of the best marina facilities on Lake Michigan
at its Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor,
the village itself is a gem of a small town with
enough unique shops, restaurants, beaches,
and summer activities to keep you as occupied
as you choose to be – or not!
Consistently winning kudos from boaters
for its services, cleanliness, and friendly
staff, the Elk Rapids Village harbor is one of
the largest in the north, with 212 seasonal
and transient slips. Under the direction of
Harbormaster Cheryl Werth, the marina
offers such amenities as power, cable,
fresh water and internet access at each
slip; complimentary shuttle service
to anywhere in the village; an air
conditioned Dayroom; fuel and pumpout services; large boaters’ restroom and
shower facilities; and picnic tables with
charcoal or propane grills. The harbor
is also proud of one of its most recent
additions, a spacious pavilion built in
2006 with a 180-degree view of Grand
Traverse Bay, providing another indoor
spot for boaters to relax and mingle.
“
“Downtown” Elk Rapids, west of the
highway, is just a block from the marina.
Here on River Street, you will find the village’s
historic buildings housing antique and gift
shops, restaurants, galleries, a wine shop, party
store/deli, and believe it or not – the local
theatre still showing first-run films every night.
The community beaches are also here on the
Lake Michigan side, a short walk from the
marina, and offer several hundred feet of sandy
shoreline for swimming and sunning, with
children’s play area and restrooms, as well as
an opportunity for exercise at the community
tennis and basketball courts.
In the Port of Elk Rapids,
you’ll find scenery, history,
entertainment, and one
of the loveliest harborages
on Lake Michigan.
However, as inviting as the marina may
be, that’s not all you’re looking for in a port,
of course! The Village of Elk Rapids, while
small – covering just a square mile – has lots
to explore. Although Elk Rapids is divided by
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wa lstr o m .c o m
”
But for the first stop on your explorations,
you will find one of Elk Rapids’ most-prized
historical gems sitting just up the grassy hill
from the marina - the Elk Rapids District
Library, also known as “The Island House”
library. Whether you’re normally a “library
person” or not, this library is one not to be
missed.
Housed in what is known as “The Island
House”, the structure was built in 1865 by one
of Elk Rapids’ pioneering businessmen, Edwin
S. Noble, as a home for his family. At the time,
the location actually was an island of nearly 5
acres in size, bordered by the Elk River and Lake
Michigan, with a bridge connecting it to town
added by the Nobles. The home was added
onto and changed ownership several times in
the following years before it was donated to
the village by its last owner, Katherine Dexter
McCormick, in 1948; the Elk Rapids Library
moved into the Island House from its original
location on River Street in 1949. The library
has made extensive renovations over the years,
although great care has been taken to preserve
the character of the house and grounds.
Today, visitors will not only enjoy visiting
the library and envisioning it as the home it
was, with its original rooms, fireplaces, and
views of Lake Michigan and the Elk River;
but also as a practical experience, boaters
find much to appreciate. If you’re looking
for a diversion on a rainy day, come sit
in a rocking chair and read (or doze) on
the cozy enclosed porch overlooking
the harbor, or turn a hand at one of the
various jigsaw puzzles which are under
ongoing construction at the study tables.
Boaters also take delight in discovering
the Friends of the Library’s ongoing book
sale in the library’s lower level. Open any
time the library is, here is a treasure trove of
paperbacks and more, old and new, providing
transient boaters a handy and economical way
to re-stock reading materials. The library also
has free wi-fi, computers available for public
use, and offers various programs throughout
Elk Rapids
the year which are open to the public. As they
say, “Check it out!”
Upon leaving the library, turn right to the
stairway that will take you down the hill to the
charming wooden footbridge that spans the
Elk River and leads to River Street. Built as a
local Boy Scout project years ago, the bridge
is in itself another experience beyond the
merely practical, however. There are few who
cross the bridge without pausing to watch kids
(of all ages) splashing in the river and watersliding down the notch in the spillway; or to
search for a glimpse of the fish hovering below
the river’s surface; or to watch the fisherman
trying to catch them; or just to take a peaceful
moment to enjoy the view of the river winding
its way to the lake.
Along with its scenic and historical
backgrounds, Elk Rapids is also a lively and
progressive community with many activities
for visitors. One of the most popular events is
the annual Harbor Days festival, held the first
weekend in August – this year August 1- 4 when the town virtually shuts down to host a
parade, carnival rides, vendors, entertainment,
fireworks and more, in a tradition that began
more than 50 years ago. Rated “Best Small
Town Festival of Northern Michigan” by My
North Media, publisher of Traverse, Northern
Michigan’s Magazine, Harbor Days is a street
festival for all ages.
Ongoing during the summer months,
are Evenings on River Street, which take
place Wednesday evenings between late
June and mid-August. Beginning at 6pm
each Wednesday, River Street becomes the
venue for a variety of musical entertainment,
food vendors, story-telling, and other family
activities. Come stroll the street and enjoy a
summer evening.
Another popular event is Art Rapids,
an annual juried art show which is held at
Veterans Memorial Park, on June 30th this
year, from 10:00am – 5:00pm. The Elk Rapids
Chamber of Commerce also sponsors an Arts
& Crafts Show three times over the summer,
when 100 vendors display handmade items on
River Street; dates in 2012 are May 26, July
21, and August 18.
The attractions of Elk Rapids go on, but
perhaps this snapshot of the village will give
you an idea of what you’ve been missing if in
the past you’ve been cruising by – and just
cruised by. In the Port of Elk Rapids, you’ll
find scenery, history, entertainment, and one
of the loveliest harborages on Lake Michigan
- in short, the waterfront gem you’ve been
looking for.
For More Information:
Elk Rapids Harbor:
http://elkrapidsharbor.com/
(231) 264-8174
Operate on channels 9, 16
and 73 on a VHF radio. Online Slip Reservation Requests:
http://www.mimarinas.info/
Harbormaster: Cheryl Werth
Harbor open May 15-October 15
Elk Rapids Village Office:
http://www.elkrapids.com/
Elk Rapids Chamber
of Commerce:
http://www.elkrapidschamber.org/
Harbor Days:
http://www.elkrapidsharbordays.org/
B O A T I N G
T I P S
Are you planning to cruise your boat in unfamiliar waters
this summer? It is always a good idea to bring along
spare impellers. Impellers can quickly bring a fun cruise
to a screeching halt if a local marina does not stock your
engines impellers. By having a spare set aboard you cut
down on the time it takes to get back on the water.
wal st rom.com
17
ST310
Receives
Boat of
the Year
Award
P
ursuit was awarded Boat of the Year
during a ceremony in the Pursuit booth
at the Miami International Boat Show
by the world’s leading marine publication,
BOATING Magazine.
B O A T I N G
T I P S
Check to make sure you have
updated flares, sufficient life
jackets for all onboard, and a
throwable lifesaving device.
Besides being good safety
measures, the Coast Guard still
does random inspections and
you don’t want to get caught
without the required equipment.
According to Pursuit President, Tom
Slikkers, “We realize there are a lot of
choices for the panel of marine professionals
deciding Boat of the Year. We’re honored
to be held in such high esteem and thank
BOATING Magazine for the award. We
believe Pursuit has developed the best design,
engineering and production processes for
bringing new product to market in today’s
challenging economy.”
The ST 310 is a uniquely different boating
platform designed to be a day cruiser or built
to serve as a tender to larger yachts.
Starting at the bow, the ST 310 delivers
full wrap-around lounge seating with
angled cushions ergonomically positioned
for comfortable entertaining. A convertible
fiberglass table accented with Corian Pursuit
details doubles as a base for the portable
sunpad filler which turns the bow into one
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wa lstr o m .c o m
large sunbathing platform. Recessed, stainless
steel hand rails are neatly anchored just
behind the forward seating for safety and
security underway.
Entry to the console and head compartment
is accomplished through a custom molded
fiberglass door installed with heavy duty
hardware and latching system complete with a
stainless gas spring. Dive tank and equipment
storage engineered below allows you to secure
gear out of the way and off the deck.
The ST 310 is outfitted with a uniquely
curved triple-wide windscreen designed to
keep a Captain and companions cruising at
speed without getting wind-blown. Seating
for three includes a separate adjustable helm
seat with arm rests along with double wide
companion seats to starboard.
Overhead, the surfboard styled hardtop
has dedicated installation details on the
topside for outriggers, radar, lighting and
antennas. Underneath, the top is finished
with built in hand rails, molded speaker
ports and an electronics box. All supported
by white, powdered coated, heavy duty
aluminum tubing.
Aft facing seating and forward facing
transom seating accommodate as many as
six additional guests with softly cushioned
upholstery designed to cradle the body
just so. Included in the seating closest to
the helm are a sink, livewell and insulated
cooler. To the starboard side a hinged seat
portion opens to reveal cavernous storage
large enough to conceal fenders, lines, safety
equipment and racks for fishing rods or
marine related equipment.
The transom lounge hinges aft and features
a large removable bin that allows access to
the aft bilge and mechanical systems. Builtin swim platforms with hidden dive ladder
and hand rail, an insulated in-floor fishbox,
properly located drink holders and gunnelmounted rod holders are just a few of the
noticeable details that finish off the cockpit.
Underneath your feet an aggressive 24
degree deadrise, sharp entry, performance
minded chines and strakes bring this vessel
to life providing a comfortable platform
capable of fishing, diving or just transporting
an extra large offshore party to your favorite
coastal getaway.
Day tripping, yacht tending, or harbor
hopping, the 310 has earned high marks from
the yachting world. Give us a call at Walstrom
Marine to show you the Pursuit Edge.
The performance of the ST 310 is also
designed to impress. Running at 36 mph
and burning 23 gallons per hour, the range is
still 369 miles. Wide open throttle at 5900
rpms gives you 54 miles per hour. While
looking and acting a lot like a center console,
the ST 310 gives you protection from the
elements for a run to Beaver Island or a
quick trip to Wisconsin.
“
We believe Pursuit has developed the
best design, engineering and production
processes for bringing new product to
market in today’s challenging economy.
”
wal st rom.com
19
Fish On!
News from Rivertown!
Greetings from
Cheboygan!
By Joe Kuchnicki
M
ost folks reading this are probably
aware of the mild Northern
Michigan winter. That being said,
our area experienced three snow events on the
first three days of March that left us with more
snow than we have had in years. It was finally
winter again in Northern Michigan and most
of us Michiganders truly enjoyed a week of
outdoor fun made possible by the snow. It only
lasted a week, and on the weekend after the
storm I rode all day on our local snowmobile
trails. It was over 60 degrees at the end of the
ride that day so I finished my day by riding a
motorcycle to cool off.
We are pleased to announce that our heated
storage was full this winter, and in fact, we had
to turn a few boats away; so as a word to the
wise, be sure to get your storage request in early
next year, and don’t be left out in the cold!
The first launch of the season was a DNR
enforcement boat on March 13th. That’s two
days before mandatory ice shanty removal
on Burt and Mullet Lakes. A week later, I
20
wa lstr o m .c o m
was talking to a customer in Florida who
noted it was 81 degrees. It was 83 degrees in
Cheboygan.
Our customers on Bois Blanc have been
cooped up this winter since no ice bridge
formed. After the Kristen D ferry stops
running, the islanders get supplies to the
island economically by using snowmobiles to
cross the South Channel. Once ice is deemed
safe, they place Christmas trees along route to
the mainland. That didn’t happen this year.
Since what ice we had left early this season,
we started seeing small boat traffic to and from
Bois Blanc in mid March. The ferry resumes
service on May 1.
Cheboygan lost a landmark business to fire
this winter. The Carnation restaurant along
with Top of the Greeks burned down. Many
of our boaters have enjoyed dining there for
years. They will be missed.
We will soon have a new licensed Captain
on our Cheboygan staff. Evan Price passed
the test and will soon have his license. He
has many hours of delivering and working on
boats under his belt. This includes time he
spent on a 92 foot Hatteras including traveling
to the Caribbean.
We have been remodeling and updating
our offices. We believe our customers will
appreciate improvements as much as we do.
Our boat moving team will be moving
smaller boats in style this spring. We replaced
our old red Chevrolet with a new red Chevrolet.
We are excited to announce we have been
here in Cheboygan for 25 years! I am one
year away from 25 years with Walstrom
Marine myself. I watched Walstrom Marine
Cheboygan change and grow for 20 years and
have been happy to have the opportunity to be
part of Cheboygan team for the last four years.
We will be celebrating our 25 anniversary
this July. Watch for date and time!
45 Sovran
“Now in Stock”
E
very once in a while, a product comes
along that redefines a category. The oversized tennis racket, metal woods golf clubs,
shaped snow skis and the iPhone are a few that
have helped to redefine product direction in
entire categories. Tiara, always at the forefront
in yacht design, redefined the express yacht
category six years ago with the introduction of
the Tiara 4000 Sovran, powered by the then
(and still) revolutionary Volvo IPS pod drive
system, controlled by a Joystick for close-quarter
maneuvering. Starting with a clean sheet of paper
to maximize the compact design efficiency of the
Volvo IPS system, Tiara hit a home run with the
4000 Sovran, building over two hundred boats
in the five years of production, making the 4000
Sovran the highest production and most widely
accepted pod boat built.
Always evolving, Tiara has raised the bar
once again with the introduction last fall, at the
Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show, of the
successor to the 40/43 Sovran, the all new 4500
Sovran. Picking up where the 40/43 Sovran left
off, the 4500 Sovran is the culmination of six
years of ongoing product development, dealer
input, and owner feedback to create the worthy
successor. Let us walk through the 4500 Sovran
with you to show you how well Tiara has again
created a “Best in Class” yacht design.
Starting at the helm, we are again impacted by
the amazing visibility that Tiara engineers into
their yachts. The 4500 Sovran’s new waterproof
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wa lstr o m .c o m
composite, corrosion resistant windshield
framing supports a distortion-free, tempered glass
windshield made to Department of Transportation
safety standards. Clearly, this evolution of the
Tiara windshield design has set a new standard for
enhanced visibility and weather protection in the
express yacht category.
Looking forward, you will see the newly
integrated, low-profile Chaise lounge sunpad,
manufactured with drain-fast open cell foam, and
incorporating inclining backrests, and integrated
drink holders. Recognizing Tiara’s life-long
commitment to safety and quality construction,
the new 4500 Sovran sun pad is engineered and
manufactured to US Coast Guard safety standards.
Moving further forward, you will discover the
bow pulpit to be an integral part of the hull and
deck structure, incorporating the well thought
out windlass system. Knowing well the safety and
recreational value of a robust anchoring system,
all Tiaras utilize a low-profile, automatic rope/
chain windlass system with a custom stainless steel
bow roller as standard equipment. Also standard
are foredeck switches and helm switch. The flushmount anchor locker, topped with Tiara’s classleading non-skid, also has an overboard drain.
Moving aft along the wide side decks, protected
by 1.25” stainless steel rail, you come upon the
new custom composite integrated hardtop with
standard sunroof. The sunroof, again a showcase
for Tiara’s engineering expertise, is a waterproof
design with a pneumatic power system that
delivers fast, smooth, quiet and safe operation.
When open, the sunshade-less design is recessed
under the cowl to protect the mechanicals.
All the way aft is the newly integrated fiftyfour inch swim platform. This platform serves as
an outstanding spot for outdoor living. The first
4500 Sovran that Walstrom Marine takes delivery
of this spring will have the optional aft-facing
transom platform seat and the optional electric
grill. Plus, there is the ability to integrate the most
popular tender launch and retrieval systems on
the market. Also new to the 45 is a huge trunk,
with plenty of capacity in addition to housing the
platform seat, a clear indication of Tiara listening
to market feedback from dealers and owners alike.
Passing through the lower cockpit, you will
discover a new, eight-square-foot hinged table,
convertible to a sunpad, which the extra length
of the 45 Sovran allows. When folded, the table
allows easy access to the port side cockpit steps.
This is a fantastic entertainment area with access
to the grill and large swim platform.
Taking a quick look at the helm on the way
below, we discover the class-leading efficiency that
Tiara engineers into all of their helms. The new
two-person helm seat is electrically actuated and
offers stand-up or sit-down helm operation for
all sizes of captains. The tilt away helm delivers
easy serviceability and is wide enough for dual
Tiara has
again created a
“Best in Class”
Yacht design
12” monitors. Also take note that the Volvo IPS Joystick is located on the
centerline, a proven location.
Going below and all the way forward to the master stateroom, you are
greeted by traditional, proven Tiara design features. The queen-sized pedestal
berth, with pillow top, inner-spring mattress, offers easy access on and off, as
well as abundant storage below. Don’t forget the large compartment under
the forward end of the bed – many owners have forgotten that it is there.
A full-sized, cedar-lined hanging locker is complimented by additional
personal storage lockers. The private master head comes complete with
vanity storage, vessel sink, and separate shower. Entertainment chores are
handled by a standard, 19” flat screen TV with built-in DVD player, also
standard in the aft stateroom.
The updated salon on the new 45 Sovran is light and bright, in part due
to the two new frosted skylights, combined with a hatch and three port
lights, all with screens and privacy covers. The satin finish on all the interior
bulkheads and cabinetry is specifically chosen to hide fingerprints, assuring
a better looking boat after years of use. Aft of the L-lounge dinette with
convertible hi-lo, high-gloss, teak table to starboard, is the new credenza
cabinetry engineered to accommodate the optional washer/dryer. To port,
the amazing, L-shaped, gourmet galley is topped with eighteen square feet
of Corian countertop and features an over/under refrigerator freezer, hidden
microwave, and ABYC approved standard, two-burner stovetop. There is
also dedicated storage for all countertop covers and table tops throughout
the boat.
With boat sales rebounding, the launch of the exceptional, new Tiara
4500 Sovran is indeed timely. This class-defining yacht will arrive at the
new Walstrom Marine Showroom and Yachting Center during the month
of May. Make your arrangements for a personal showing early, as the 4500
Sovran will be in even higher demand than its predecessor. Call your
Walstrom Marine broker today.
wal st rom.com
23
The 50 Eastbay’s arresting new look is complemented by a new pod drive
propulsion system that offers improved handling, precision joystick control, better
fuel economy and a host of other benefits to owners.
“In 1993, Grand Banks launched the Eastbay Series and pioneered the modern
interpretation of the lobster boat as a stylish and powerful Down East cruiser,” said
David Hensel, director of brand and marketing at Grand Banks. “Now for 2012, the
50 Eastbay brings a striking new blend of grace, beauty and outstanding performance
to a strong and growing segment. We’re very excited to be introducing this model
here in Miami.”
24
wa lstr o m .c o m
Deck Plan Standard
The all-new 50 Eastbay is the company’s latest addition to its “Down East” series
of luxury performance motoryachts, and will be available in both salon-express and
flybridge versions. The assertive, fluid lines of the 50 Eastbay and its dynamic new
profile represent an exciting evolution in style for the entire series. Also notable is the
graceful and open flow between the salon and cockpit, facilitated by a deckhouse that
opens almost completely between the two areas.
The announcement of these two new yachts comes at a time of
surging sales for Grand Banks. Over a period of less than ninety
days the company has captured approximately US$15 million
in new sales of its Heritage, Eastbay and Aleutian models across
markets worldwide.
Lower Deck Standard
G
rand Banks Yachts today kicked off the Yacht and Brokerage Show in Miami
Beach with the announcement of two new models and news of strong sales
going into this year’s event.
Grand Banks also announced a new addition to its Heritage
Series on the opening day of the show. The 43 Heritage EU
follows in the footsteps of the extremely successful 41EU, a
groundbreaking model that introduced pod drive propulsion to
the trawler yacht category. The 43EU features a larger cockpit with
increased storage, and the addition of a second head to its twostateroom layout - plus a larger master cabin, bigger flybridge and
a number of other enhancements both inside and out.
Main Deck Standard
50
EASTBAY
43 HERITAGE
EU
SR Mid Galley
3SR Lower Level
SX Lowerdeck Galley Up
43 Heritage
“The 43EU features a larger
cockpit with increased storage,
and the addition of a second head
to its two-stateroom layout.”
For Your Personal Tour Contact
John Russell
(231) 838-4677 Cell - (231) 582-1111 Office
To Be Built
Highest Point on the Bluff
A 435 East Bluff Drive
Enjoy panoramic views of Harbor Springs from this
2730 square foot home. Endless possibilities.
$799,000 MLS # 432754
B 1761 Resort Road Burt Lake
165 ft. of frontage on the historic boardwalk.
Sandy bottom, boaters dream, call for details.
C 8202 Devil’s Elbow on Crooked River
103 ft. of frontage on the Inland Waterway close
to Burt Lake. Covered boat well $329,000 #432925
D Bay Harbor Yacht Docks
60 ft. Slip on C-dock 50 ft. slip on B-dock #432843
A
B
C
D
email me at johnrussell@kiddleavy.com or visit us 24 hrs. a day at www.kiddleavy.com
The Warmth and Beauty of Wood. Equally at home
with traditional, urban or rustic styles.
No
passport,
no
entry.
Smart
|
Sophisticated
|
Sustainable
As of June 1, 2009, you will be required to show an upto-date U.S. passport to enter the United States from
Canada. This new rule applies to everyone, regardless
of age. So if you plan to travel to Canada this summer,
you’ll need a valid U.S. passport book or a U.S. passport
card. You can purchase a passport at any U.S. Post
Office, but you must apply in person. If you live in Emmet
County, you can choose to apply at the office of the
County Clerk, 200 Division Street in Petoskey. If you have
any questions, visit travel.state.gov.
Darnton Builders • Harbor Springs, MI
www.darntonbuilders.com • 231.348.2684
wal st rom.com
25
Customer Profile
John Demmer, Man with the
STE E L H A N D S
& Gold Heart
A
t first glance, one can’t help notice
that John Demmer is larger than the
average size man. Up closer, one can’t
help notice his hands. They are not just large,
but strong, and look like they’re made of steel.
These are the hands of a toolmaker. They have
built machines, some two stories high. These
hands have built armor for tanks in WWII.
They have built and grabbed countless tools,
pulled levers and cables, pushed buttons and
toggle switches, operated armored vehicles,
boats, cars, trucks, and heavy machinery.
These hands have tinkered, designed, and
drawn pictures for machines and buildings.
They have held a wife for over 65 years, held
3 children, and several grandchildren. John
Demmer, the man with the steel hands, chats
about his life journey in his home with the
front door on Main and back door on Bay
Street in Harbor Springs.
“I was raised in Saginaw, Michigan. There
were five in my family. I started working when
I was real young. My dad had a good job and
we never wanted for anything. I had a basket
on my bike. The owner of the neighborhood
meat market asked if I would deliver meat after
school. Every night and Saturday I delivered
26
wa lstr o m .c o m
meat. Between deliveries, instead of standing
around, I started waiting on customers so
I got promoted and they got another kid to
deliver. I was about 13. When I saw owners
playing golf on Wednesdays, I made up my
mind someday I was going to own my own
business.”
“I went to MSU in l939. While home
during break the first year, an Irishman named
Jim Fitzpatrick asked me to go back early to
a dance. He said, “We can have fun before
classes start.” I replied, “If you get me a date
with the best dancer in the freshman class,
I’ll go.” Jim agreed. Her name was Marnie
Olofsson. The four of us went out; it led to
romance, and eventually marriage.
“In l942, I went back to Saginaw to work
for a General Motors plant managed by my
father. With college credits and hours working
in the tool room, I received a toolmakers
classification. That gained me a deferment
but the pressure was great if you weren’t
joining the war effort, so I joined the army as a
private. Before I left, Marnie’s father informed
us that his chief inspector for his Lansing
shop had drowned fishing on Higgins Lake. I
volunteered to fill in for him.”
“My army training started at Camp Santa
Anita, the old racetrack in California. I
became a machine shop instructor and later
was put into heavy tank maintenance. There
were great welders but I was the only one who
could read a micrometer and use precision
instruments, so I became a Technical Sergeant.
Another opening came for warrant officer.
With my two years of ROTC at MSU, I passed
the three-hour verbal exam and got the post.”
“The most interesting project for our defense
plant was making a full track amphibious
vehicle, called the alligator, for landing forces
in the South Pacific. This vehicle, loaded
with GIs, could get cross-wise in the surf, roll
Continued on page 46
Waterfront
LIFESTYLE
If the feel of sandy shores, the sound of softly rolling waves or the peacefulness of lakefront living
are the backdrop to your dream lifestyle, explore the extraordinary waterfront properties and boat
slips that Harbor Sotheby’s International Realty represents.
Unique Retreat on Lake Charlevoix - Eight plus acres on
370’ of Lake Charlevoix sandy beach. 270’ permanent dock
with an L-shaped tee capable of mooring large vessels. Located
1.5 miles from downtown Charlevoix and just ten minutes
by boat via Round Lake. Easy access to Lake Michigan. This
property also has a main house and guest house.
$4,950,000 | Web Id: 432347
Walloon Lake Cottage - Charming waterfront Victorian
cottage located on 50 feet of Walloon Lake frontage. Beautiful
stone fireplace, open floor plan, newly completed guest
quarters and wrap around deck with breathtaking views. Welldesigned landscaping including custom built gates and a fire
pit on the lake. Enjoy the beauty of the water and the northern
Michigan lifestyle.
$975,000 | Web Id: 431093
Breathtaking Views in Harbor Springs - Enjoy beachfront
living in this beautifully appointed 4,300 square foot home on
300’ of Lake Michigan frontage. Relax in the infinity pool while
soaking up the bay breezes. This remarkable 5 bedroom home
features an elegant kitchen with granite countertops, beautiful
cabinetry and top of the line finishes, two wood burning
fireplaces and breathtaking views from just about every room!
$1,995,000 | Web Id: 431875
Docks at Bay Harbor Yacht Club - Yacht Dock ownership
includes a great sandy beach, certified dock hands, complete
concierge services, hydraulically-adjustable docks, wireless
internet and cable television and complete pump out services.
Purchasing a dock puts you in the heart of the social center of
the community, the Bay Harbor Yacht Club.
Available 35’ on up | Starting at $69,000
Also inquire about our Seasonal Slips at the Lake Marina
Stunning Lake Michigan Home in Harbor Springs Lakefront home sits on 7.5 acres with generous gathering
spaces, fitness room, finished lower level and spectacular water
views. Included is a fully furnished log home guest house,
storage barn and 140 acres across the road with wooded trails
for year round recreation. One-of-a-kind opportunity for
northern Michigan living at its best.
$4,300,000 | Web Id: 432805
Unique Double-Sided Waterfront Homesite - This is
truly a dream location. This incredibly rare homesite offers
double-sided waterfront. Lake Michigan sunsets on one side
and permitted for a 60 foot boat dock on the other. This is a
wonderful opportunity to build your waterfront dream home
in one of the most desirable spots in northern Michigan. A
true gem!
$1,999,000 | Web Id: 427811
231.439.2000
harborsir.com
Following the Money Trail
Meet the Accounting Department
at Walstrom Marine
A
fter docking their boats a season or
two with Walstrom Marine, customers
usually become pretty familiar with
most of the Walstrom team, from being in
and out of the Sales or Service Departments,
meeting the techs or cleaning crew at work on
the boats, or the yard staff outside attending
to duties on the docks. But not as frequently
do customers meet face to face with the
members of the Walstrom team who are just as
vital to the company, but operate mostly out
of view – the Walstrom Marine Accounting
Department.
You’ve probably spoken to one or more
of these folks when you’ve called to make
a payment or check on an invoice, but have
never met them in person. And since a major
factor in Walstrom Marine’s success is the
personalized relationships it develops with its
customers, we’d like to introduce you to the
faces behind the “voice on the phone” you
speak with when you call our office with an
accounting question.
Kathy
Motschall,
CPA –
Controller
Kathy Motschall,
who joined Walstrom Marine as
Controller in spring
2011, was born in
Erie, PA and raised
in Albuquerque, NM, graduating with an accounting degree from the University of Arizona, Tucson. As Walstrom Controller, Kathy is
responsible for overseeing company accounting, banking and other financial functions.
Kathy lived in Arizona until 1987, when
she and husband Paul moved to Northern
28
wa lstr o m .c o m
Michigan. In Petoskey, Kathy worked for a
local CPA firm for 11 years, and then as the
Business Manager/Finance Director at Charter
Communications. While at Charter, Kathy
transferred to the Traverse City office, and
lived and worked in Traverse City for 10 years.
Kathy and Paul (and their Shih Tzus Bob
and Phil) were happy for the opportunity to
move back to the Harbor Springs area last
year. They’ve been able to reconnect with old
friends, make new ones and be closer to family.
Kathy says, “Coming to work at Walstrom
Marine has been a great opportunity for me
to use my background and knowledge in a
well-established, solid family business which
occupies a comfortable niche in a fun industry
in a great place to live. What a combination!”
Jana Beach –
Accounts
Receivable
You may also
have already spoken
with Jana, who
joined the Walstrom
Accounting Team
in May 2011 after
15 years as a 3rd
generation professional photographer at her
family photography studio. Jana grew up in
the Petoskey area. She and her husband Joe
have a beautiful baby daughter, Makayla. With
her new career Jana has been able to enjoy
more time with her family, being outside at the
beach, hunting, riding their 4-wheelers, and
enjoying the nature around them.
Brenda
Andrews –
Accounts
Payable
Brenda
began
working for Walstrom Marine in
2007 at Propellers in
Harbor Springs and
later moved to the
Service Department as receptionist and bookkeeper for Walstrom Dock & Dredge. She
made her final move to Accounts Payable in
July of 2010 and is enjoying her new position.
Brenda has two children, Rebecca and
Thomas III, with her husband, Thomas.
When she’s not busy taking care of her family
she enjoys reading, sewing, crafting and
baking with her kids. Brenda grew up in
Harbor Springs, as did her family who owned
the Lightfoot Dairy Farm many years ago.
Accounting Department
Contact Information:
Controller
Kathy Motschall:
(231) 526-9189
kmotschall@walstrom.com
Accounts Payable
Brenda Andrews
(231) 526-0801
bandrews@walstrom.com
Accounts Receivable
Jana Beach
(231) 526-9190
jbeach@walstrom.com
High Hopes, Low Lake Levels
A
Article by Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
pproximately 20 years ago, many
residents along the Great Lakes
shoreline, particularly along Lake
Michigan and Lake Huron, had more lake
water than they knew what to do with. As a
result, flooding and erosion were primary
concerns. Now many of the same residents,
who once had water knocking on their
doorstep, have a 300 foot walk or more from
their house to reach the water’s edge. The
culprit is the changing water levels of the
Great Lakes. Despite their vastness and ageless
beauty, we often forget that the Great Lakes
are a living system, an ever-changing ecological
process, and, as part of that process, the tides
have changed again.
From shoreline property owners and
commercial freighters to recreational boaters
and anglers, there is one common resounding
question in the Great Lakes Basin – where has
all the water gone? Recent drops in lake levels
are inciting concern throughout the region
and the million (or realistically, multi-billion)
dollar question is why; are the receding waters
part of a natural stage or do they indicate a
new trend or problem we must face?
Very simply, this article could end now –
no one knows for sure. However, what we do
know is that water levels in the Great Lakes
are currently low. Lake Superior has been at
its lowest level since 1926; Lake Erie hasn’t
been as low since 1966; and Lakes Michigan
and Huron are at their lowest since 1965.
The lower lake levels are very noticeable now
because lake levels have been above average for
some time, with Lakes Michigan and Huron
reaching record highs in 1986. It is important
to note that the current low levels are still
within the realm of historical low lake levels on
Lakes Michigan and Huron. This means that
even though lake levels are below the longterm averages, they still remain above record
low levels.
As mentioned, the Great Lakes are a
dynamic ecosystem, changing from one day
to the next. Day-to-day fluctuations are
caused by wind and wave action along the
shore. Annual or seasonal fluctuations are
based mainly on changes in precipitation
and runoff; for example, low levels in winter
when precipitation is locked up in ice, and
high levels in summers after spring thaw.
The Great Lakes also experience long-term
periods corresponding to long-term trends in
precipitation and temperature.
While theories on low (and high) lake
levels abound in the Great Lakes, there are a
few prevalent theories, including both natural
occurrences and man-made alterations. To
begin, the most widely accepted theory is
simply natural changes in climatic or weather
conditions. After all, the Lakes are a natural
phenomenon, formed over millions of years,
due to glacial advancement and retreat during
the Ice Age. Lake levels are largely determined
by the weather. Very simply, water inflow
(precipitation, run-off, and water from
streams) minus water outflow (evaporation
and water flowing out of the system) equals a
change in lake water levels. In particular, Great
Lakes water levels are especially influenced
by winter: a hard winter, with above normal
snowfall and bitter cold temperatures creating
vast ice cover will cause lake levels to rise,
whereas mild winters with higher temperatures
and, subsequently, less ice cover and more
evaporation will decrease lake levels.
Recent weather trends over the Great Lakes
have included decreased precipitation, higher
than usual air temperatures and less ice cover
in winter. A decade of warm winters with sporadic snowfall has resulted in a long-term trend
of low water levels in
the Great Lakes Basin. This unusually
Interesting fact:
For each inch the
warm weather with
water level drops, a
little snow and ice
freighter must reduce
cover will only serve
weight by anywhere
to enhance the low
from 71- 276 tons.
water levels. According to the outlook
generated by the Great
Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in
February 2012, “Lake Superior and Michigan-Huron are expected to remain below the
long-term mean.” Their research is based on
observed weather patterns and Great Lakes
water levels from 1948 to present, along with
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center’s
regional forecasts.
Low water levels impact our beloved boating
experience and tradition. With low lake levels,
our boating season can be cut short by four
to six weeks. Additionally, boaters will become
increasingly concentrated in certain areas, as
lake levels drop. This could ultimately lead to
an increase in accidents and damage to boats,
as groundings become more common.
Continued on page 56
wal st rom.com
29
Time-tested and True
I
t is almost impossible to improve on perfection, yet year after year Chris-Craft continues
to raise the bar and deliver class leading boats
with exceptional fit, finish, and performance that
set Chris-Craft boats apart for the competition.
In fact, Chris Craft is the competition.
Walstrom Marine is happy to have a longstanding relationship with Chris-Craft.
Our current offerings of a 25 Launch and a
22 Launch have been selected due to their
continued success in the marketplace and a
great “fit” for Walstrom boaters.
Features like the stainless steel windshield
frame fitted with optically correct tinted and
30
wa lstr o m .c o m
tempered safety glass continue to set ChrisCraft boats apart. Other brands, some with
big names, use aluminum frames with plastic
windshields. Smooth decks with stainless
steel pop-up cleats that won’t snag lines and
clothing add to the quality feel. Seating
surfaces are luxuriously covered with soft-tothe-touch durable, solid color fabrics, meaning
that the color is carried through the fabric
not just sprayed on top. Dual density quick
drain foam assures that your boat’s seating
will dry quickly even after a day of vigorous
water sports. Fittings and fixtures are all yacht
quality. Under seat storage is abundant, and
both consoles add even more storage space.
2012
to Their Heritage
Performance has always been a Chris-Craft
strong point with the 22 and 25 Launches
carrying the torch high. The hulls have a
foam filled fiberglass liner that significantly
reduces hull flex adding to hull strength and
exceptional durability in addition to a soft,
dry, and comfortable ride. Even at the fastest
speeds, Chris-Craft boats are steady and
predictable instilling a feeling of confidence
and safety for captain and crew.
At the 2012 Miami International Boat
Show, Chris-Craft stepped it up a couple of
notches again, this time with the introductions
of the new 32 Launch and the updated 36
Corsair. The 36 Corsair remains the flagship
of the current Chris-Craft lineup and as such
offers space combined with the well known
brand attributes.
(Walstrom Marine is
currently offering a 2008 36 Corsair through
our brokerage department with significant
savings.)
The Launch 32 is the newest member of
the Launch family and it is also the largest.
Steve Heese, Chris-Craft President, said, “The
Launch 32 is the logical next step for the active
boater that still wants a bow rider but also
wants the option to overnight at a moment’s
notice.” The Launch 32 offers an ample aft
sunpad, sleep-in cabin and convenient head to
accommodate all the comforts that your family
and guests deserve. The sleek proportions and
practical configuration make this Launch wellsuited to long excursions while still remaining
practical for those legendary Chris-Craft
champagne cruises.
Contact your Walstrom Marine yacht
broker today for all of the latest details on
Chris Craft.
wal st rom.com
31
The New Hatteras
100 Raised Pilot
Coming Summer 2013
H
atteras Yachts is proud to announce
plans to unveil the new 100 Raised
Pilothouse in the summer of 2013.
This new model brings styling cues from
her classic lineage into the 21st century, and
is designed to set yet another standard of
excellence in large motor yachts. Hatteras
has drawn on its 52 years of history, outside
consultants from around the world, and
inspiration derived from some of the finest
mega yachts afloat to design her. Classic
beauty and unrivaled craftsmanship, ship-like
features and amenities, and everything one
typically expects in a Hatteras yacht define this
new flagship.
With a massive flybridge, an overall length
of 100’ and beam of 22’6”, her entertainment
spaces and interior volume are easily compared
to yachts much larger in size. Not only does
the Hatteras 100 RPH deliver on volume, she
will also be outfitted more like a much larger
yacht – featuring content such as a grand side
entry with spiral staircase, twin anchors with
heavy-duty windlasses and integral chaffing
plates, and an optional on-deck master suite.
This new flagship of the Hatteras motor
yacht fleet will be offered as a heavily
contented, turnkey package. Everything from
32
wa lstr o m .c o m
zero-speed stabilizers, bow and stern thrusters,
and a premium A/V system; to a stocked wine
cooler, bathrobes and linens are included.
Also included is an electronics allowance that
will easily outfit a true captain’s pilothouse,
equipping her for the demands of cruising in
exotic seas across the globe.
As you enter the 100 RPH from the main
entryway found amidships on the starboard
side, the first thing you notice is the grand
staircase heading up to the pilothouse and
flybridge, and down to the staterooms, all in
one graceful arc. Aft is the capacious salon and
formal dining area. For those that entertain
large groups, an optional oversized bar is
available. Large windows reveal sweeping
views to both port and starboard, and the aft
salon doors open to combine the salon and aft
deck social areas into one gigantic living space
ready to entertain on a grand scale. Move
forward and you are greeted by the large open
space of the country-style galley. Equipped
with full-size appliances, ample cold storage,
a large dinette, and a working island with bar
seating; the galley offers the amenities and
luxury of home. The galley is also bathed in
natural light, made possible by one of the most
noticeable features of the new 100 RPH – the
large integrated skylight in the overhead. An
optional five stateroom layout takes advantage
of this feature by including it in the on-deck
master suite.
Below deck, the new 100 RPH provides
accommodations for eight in a four-stateroom,
four-head layout. The full-beam master suite
is truly opulent and well appointed. It sits
amidships and features a his-and-hers head, and
ample storage in large closet spaces. Portlights
on each side bring in natural light, and the
exquisitely crafted cabinetry provides the
comfort and luxury you expect in a Hatteras.
This private owner’s retreat is fit for royalty.
Heading forward, twin staterooms are located
on either side of the companionway with each
featuring its own head. At the bow lies the
VIP suite. Entering from the same hallway as
the rest of the berthing spaces, the VIP suite
offers a luxurious private bathroom, large
closets and a full-size queen bed with storage
beneath. Each stateroom features a premium
A/V package that includes a flat-screen LED
television, AM/FM radio with Ipod® dock,
Blue-ray® disc player and Bose® speakers.
The raised pilothouse, found a few steps
above the main entrance just off the grand
stairway, is truly something to behold.
Designed to accommodate an elaborate
Flybridge Arrangement
Main Deck with On-Deck Master Suite
house
electronics package, the helm console features
multi-use touch-screen monitors – placing
navigation, communication, and ship systems
information at the captain’s fingertips. Central
is the Hatteras Monitoring System that uses
touch-screen technology to oversee all ship’s
systems including RPM, oil pressure, engine
diagnostics, fuel and water levels, bilge alarms
and more. From the helm chair, the captain
has the entire vessel at his fingertips. The
pilothouse also includes an L-shaped lounge
for guests or crew.
Up above is the immense flybridge. Here,
you can enjoy a commanding 360-degree view
of your favorite port of call while relaxing
in either the sun or shade. The design team
created an innovative line of modular furniture
that allows the flybridge to be tailored to the
specific needs of the owner. A luxurious al
fresco dining suit, comfortable lounges, large
wet bar and more are all available to create a
truly unique outdoor space. The helm station
found on the flybridge has two captain’s chairs
and can accommodate up to three monitors
as well as the other system controls necessary
to run the yacht. The aft deck of the flybridge
can be equipped with a davit for a tender and
water toys, or an extended furniture layout for
more entertaining space. If the latter is chosen,
Standard Main Deck with Country Kitchen
Standard Lower Deck with Four
Guest Staterooms and VIP Suite
the tender and water toys
are located on a hydraulic
lift attached to the swim
platform.
An observation lounge
lies at the bow and an
additional dining area
can be found on the aft
deck under the protection
of the flybridge overhang. It features a dinette
that can seat up to eight guests, a premium
AV system with a drop-down flat-screen LED
television, gear stowage compartments, and
integrated steps to the flybridge and swim
platform. Designed with the consummate host
in mind, this space can be combined with the
salon by opening the large glass entry doors –
creating one large living/entertainment space.
A discrete stairwell just off the aft deck leads
below to the crew spaces and engine room. If
the pilothouse is the brains of the vessel, this
is the heart. The immaculate engine room
is home to twin CAT C32 ACERT diesel
engines with an output of 1900 bhp each
on all standard models. Owners with greater
performance in mind can upgrade to twin
MTU 16V2000 CR diesel engines rated at
2600 bhp. Systems are centrally located, and
all hoses and electrical wiring are secured and
labeled for easy access.
The crew space is located just aft of the
engine room and can be entered from the aft
deck stairwell or from the bustle door in the
transom, making access convenient whether
tied at the dock or underway. It includes
a private stateroom for the captain, and a
bunkroom for crew. Each has its own head. A
shared galley is located off the companionway
and is equipped with a microwave/convection
oven, sink and refrigerator.
Like all other Hatteras models, the 100
Raised Pilothouse is built on a solid fiberglass
hull bottom that is backed by a ten-year
warranty. With its deep tunnel pockets, Nibral
high-performance propellers, and efficient
gear reductions, the 100 RPH delivers a
shallow draft and competitive cruising
performance.
wal st rom.com
33
What
?
Do You Do
All Winter
T
his is a question we are asked all the time
by customers and friends because most
people who don’t know us think we shut
down for the winter months. The fact of the
matter is, this is when we get a chance to get some
schooling in, attend Trade Conferences and are
working hard to make your boating experience as
pleasant as possible. So here is what we have been
up to.
there was one person that did not walk away with
one or two new ideas.
Chris Craft CSI etc. that we receive directly from
the manufacturers
We have also sent Techs to various schools
that include a three-day Zodiac Inflatable Repair
class, Pursuit Tech, Tiara Tech, and The IBEX
Conference and Aftermarket Accessories Show in
Louisville. As usual, our Sales Staff has spent time
at boat shows as well as Dealer Meetings.
As announced in the Docklines E-Blast,
Walstrom Marine sponsored a Captain’s Class that
was attended by ten people. The classes were held
at The Boathouse for six 10-hour days with the test
given the seventh day. The results are impressive
in that all participants passed the test on the first
try! The really good news about this is that two
Walstrom Marine Employees, one each at Harbor
Springs and Cheboygan, passed the test and are
now working on the verification of sea time, plus
a few other requirements. When these are met, we
will have two licensed Captains on our staff.
Additionally, we have just been notified that we
have been awarded the status of Flagship Dealer
by Pursuit. This involved a physical inspection
of our facilities, examples of a training log for
the Techs as well as the Managers, Customer
Feedback, and scoring done by Warranty and
Sales. We are quite proud that we have been
awarded this status to go along with the Tiara
Platinum Dealer designation, which we have
achieved for a number of years now.
It’s always funny that at the beginning of the
winter layup, there seems to be quite a bit of
time to perform the dry commissioning, polish
and detail your boat, and check it all over for
any preventative maintenance. After the layup
most boats come out with a fresh coat of wax, the
preventive maintenance completed, any requested
electronics upgrades installed, and teak has been
sanded or touched up and recoated as necessary,
along with the myriad other projects requested;
and it seems as though it was just last week when
we were hauling out the last boat of the season and
wondering if it would be a long cold winter or not.
Joe Kuchnicki and I attended the Marine Dealer
Conference and Expo in Orlando, which gave us
the opportunity not only to see some familiar
dealer friends, but also to make new contacts with
dealers as well as suppliers. We also attended the
Educational Seminars that ranged from Social
Networking (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to Hiring
and Retaining Top Performers. It was a very busy
three and a half days, but both of us felt it was
time well spent. I look forward to attending again
this year.
There was also a group of us that attended
a Customer Service Boot Camp. This was
sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce
and was hosted by Nub’s Nob. This was a refresher
course for everyone who is in the Service Industry,
whether Sales, Service or Retail, and I don’t think
34
wa lstr o m .c o m
I have been working on getting our Five Star
Dealer Re-Certification. This certification is aimed
at making your dealership experience as enjoyable
as possible, all the time, every time. And when
there are any issues, it provides an opportunity for
you to offer feedback which will be tracked and
reviewed regularly, and hopefully will allow us to
prevent future issues of the same type.
The scoring for the Certification is based on
several areas of the dealership and includes Sales,
Service and Parts. We will be either sending out
CSI cards with monthly statements, or may even
place them below on your boat for you to fill out
and return to us. We also have plans to do a third
party CSI Survey like we did last year that will use
a Customer List. You may have been contacted last
year, and we appreciate the time you took to help
out, but do not be surprised if you are contacted
sometime this summer for your feedback. This is
on top of the Tiara CSM, the Pursuit CSI, and
So, as you see, we actually are quite busy during
our “off” months - all in preparation of the
upcoming cruising season. I know I am looking
forward to some nice warm spring days so I can
ride to work in the morning, just as you dream
of those first cruises of the season, with ideas of
where you would like to cruise to throughout the
warmer months. Or of the salmon or trout you
will surely hook, and cook up on the grill. As soon
as the weather breaks, it will be time, so be ready
for it!
And one last thing, and you knew it was
comingYou have been practicing your Navigational
Skills haven’t you?
I’ll leave you with an old Sailor’s Toast….
“There are good ships, and there are wood
ships, the ships that sail the sea. But the best ships,
are friendships, And may they always be”
Cruise Safe,
Charlie Duray
R
umors abound about the new Tiara 5000
Coupe and 5000 Flybridge yachts. You
may have even seen a teaser of it on the
Tiara website or at one of the winter boat shows
or, gasp, a confidential manufacturer rendering.
(Don’t tell Tiara!) Plans are still developing for
these new Tiara yachts with anticipation and
expectations running high.
Here’s what we know so far. They’re stunning!!
Tiara has been flirting with the 5000 Coupe
and 5000 Flybridge designs for a while. Both
boats are loosely based on the 4800 Convertible.
The 5000 Coupe becomes a galley-up sedan
configuration with lower helm and windows all
around. The 5000 Flybridge looks to have, at
this point in time, both upper and lower helms.
Anticipation!
5000
Below the deck on both the Coupe and
Flybridge, the three staterooms and two heads
easily carry over from the 4800 Convertible.
A two stateroom, two head plan is also under
consideration.
Coupe &
Flybridge
Performance will be consistent with Tiara’s
well known ability to deliver a soft, quiet, dry
ride. All drive train options are still on the table
as well.
Suffice it to say that there is always a
considerable amount of “anticipation” when
Tiara Yachts launches a new vessel. The 5000
Coupe and 5000 Flybridge will be no exception.
Stay tuned to Walstrom Marine for the latest
details on this exciting development.
Sneak Peek
Comming
2013
Propellers, the lifestyle stores, located at The Boathouse of Harbor Springs and the Village
at Bay Harbor, offer a variety of nautical inspired gifts and accessories as well as mens,
ladies and childrens clothing. Propellers is a one stop shop for the boating enthusiast.
We stock everything from local cruising guides and life jackets to sunglasses, resort wear
and shoes. Propellers can meet your every need for a day on the water or on the town.
Propellers offers the largest assortment of Lilly Pulitzer in Northern Michigan. We stock
Lilly’s best sellers, such as walking shorts and everyday tees and colorful polos. You
will also find a great variety of summer dresses for every occasion whether going to the
beach or attending a spectacular summer event. We love these bright and cheerful
collections and are excited to bring mens Lilly Pulitzer styles to the stores this year.
105 Bay Street ♦ Harbor Springs, MI
(231)526-6885
801 Front Street ♦ Bay Harbor, MI
(231)439-2740
At Propellers, you can always expect to find something
new. For this summer, both stores have added some
terrific new lines for men, women and kids. Our
collections combine traditional classics with updated
trends to create an easy “up North” look.
Want to see what else is happening at Propellers?
Become a fan on Facebook. Our page is updated
frequently with information about shipment arrivals,
markdowns, promotions and store events.
wal st rom.com
35
Bay Harbor
Update
By Hi Stover
W
alstrom Marine is looking forward
to another great year in Bay Harbor
with our yacht sales office staffed by Hi
Stover and our Propeller’s lifestyle store
headed by Heidi Hayner. The Bay Harbor
community will again pull out all the stops
to make 2012 a memorable year.
The 10th Annual Bay Harbor In-Water
Boat Show will be held Father’s Day
weekend, June 15 - 17. Expect the event to
be the best ever, with many new features and
activities, in addition to the stars of the show,
our boats!
The Vintage Car and Boat Festival is the
following weekend, with participants starting
to arrive in Bay Harbor on Thursday, June
21 in preparation for Friday’s Car and Boat
In
Stock
Cruises. Saturday, June 23 starts off with the
car parade at 10am, followed immediately by
the in-water judging of the boat participants.
The Bay Harbor summer calendar
continues with great events in July. Fireworks
on July 3rd will be followed by the decorated
Gem Car parade on the 4th of July. August
plays host to the 13th Annual Bay Harbor
Arts Festival on August 4 -5. This is a juried
event and with last year’s event doubling in
size, we expect this year’s to be sensational.
September will see the Bay Harbor High
Stakes Salmon Shootout and the Bay Harbor
Home Tour.
Another fun summer looks to be in
store for the Walstrom Marine Bay Harbor
community. Join us!!
Walstrom Marine – Sales Office:
500 Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
231.526.2141 • 1.877.245.9696
boats@walstrom.com
Boats for
Sale
Contact Our Sales
Department for Special Savings!
36
wa lstr o m .c o m
WALSTROM MARINE PROMOTES
DURAY
a.j. Veneklasen, Inc. & Walstrom Marine
A Trusted Friendship and Countless Projects
Built Over 20 Years
To Service Manager Position
W
alstrom Marine has promoted long-time employee Charlie
Duray to Harbor Springs Service Manager from the
Production Manager position he previously held.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Charlie grew up on the water
spending time on his family’s Safety-Craft cruiser. After finishing
school, Duray moved to the Bahamas for eighteen months where
a yacht captain introduced him to the world of crewed yachts. His
first ‘probationary’ position was as a deck hand on a 60’ Chris Craft
Constellation. It wasn’t long before Charlie worked his way up to
become First Mate aboard one of the last large wooden yachts built in
the United States, a 76’ Broward, owned by a gentleman from Chicago
who also had a cottage on Harbor Point in Harbor Springs, Michigan.
The Harbor Point connection would bring together Charlie with his
future wife of thirty-four years.
Charlie’s First Mate position on the Broward brought him, and the
crew, the opportunity to extensively cruise the Eastern United States
including the waters of the Great Loop and the Gulf of Mexico. This
extensive experience also prepared Charlie to take the helm as a captain
himself, running his first yacht, a 58’ Hatteras Cockpit Motor Yacht
with the added benefit of his new wife, Nancy, as First Mate. This
position opened the door for another opportunity as crew aboard a
60’ Chris Craft Roamer that also involved assisting the owner with the
campaign of a 38’ Cigarette Top Gun offshore race boat. The Cigarette
team went on to take World Champion honors.
The desire to have a ‘home’ prompted a move to Harbor Springs in
1982. Shortly after moving to Harbor Springs, the seas again called
Charlie, this time as a delivery captain for Walstrom Marine. Running
everything from used 25’ runabouts to 60’ Hatteras and Bertrams,
Charlie proved his value to his new employer. In 1986, Charlie would
become a full time Walstrom Marine crew member and has remained a
valued employee and friend ever since. While not on the water as much
now as before, Charlie currently fills his need for speed on one of his
motorcycles tearing up the countryside surrounding Harbor Springs.
In related moves, Dave Price takes the position of Facilities and Yard
Manager, while new hire David Lesh Jr. replaces Duray at the Harbor
Springs Production Manager position.
ajvinc.com
Quality
■ Trust ■616-975-3731
Craftsmanship
ajvinc.com 616.957.3731
Trident Funding Corporation
Specialists in Yacht Financing
“We are proud to be Walstrom Marine’s
preferred choice in marine lending.”
Vincent S. Luzietti, Vice President
Trident Funding, Inc.
1077 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton, CT 06484
(203) 944-6555 • www.tridentfunding.com
The
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Springs is the Great Lakes’ newest
a bygone era, the Boathouse of Harbor
yachting club and destination.
Springs is the Great Lakes’ newest
yachting
club and destination.
• Memberships available from 32-70
feet, starting at $175,000
• On site fuel, with discount for members
• Memberships available from 32-70
• Priority
service
from Walstrom Marine
feet,
starting
at $175,000
• Private indoor and outdoor vehicle
fuel,inwith
discount
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• On site
parking
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• Priority
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• Largeservice
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• Private
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•
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• Large
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• Clubhouse with kitchen, boater’s
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• Pump-out
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• Lunch and
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• Clubhouse with kitchen, boater’s
lounge, dining room, and board room
105 Bay St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740 • 231-526-0800
• Lunch and dinner served daily on the
clubwww.boathousehs.com
deck
Meet David Lesh
Walstrom Marine Production Manager
A
s Production Manager, Dave is usually the first person you speak with when you call
about a service project on your boat, as he is responsible for writing service estimates,
work orders, and co-ordinating schedules for the technicians. As he is still relatively new to
the Walstrom team, you may not know him personally yet, so let us introduce you.
Hello Everyone,
I think I’ve met most of you, or at least spoken with you on the phone,
over the last year that I’ve been at Walstrom Marine. For those of you
whom I have not yet met, my name is David Lesh and I am the new face
sitting at the perch in the service office. Over the last year I have been
trying my best to fill the large shoes of Charlie Duray and take over as the
Production Manager.
I grew up in Indianapolis, but I spent my summers at the family
cottage on Burt Lake. When it came time to settle down and buy a house,
the decision to move to Northern Michigan was an easy one. I have an
education in yacht design and prior to moving to Northern Michigan I was
the design engineer at a catamaran builder in Alaska. Throughout college,
and for a number of years after, I worked across the street at Irish Boat Shop
Welcome to
the Walstrom
Fuel Dock!
W
hether it’s a day cruise or a trip
to the North Channel, our goal
is to provide the best service
possible. Besides fuel, we can take care of
both your fresh water and holding tanks,
fuel your tender, add two cycle oil and top
off the ice chest. Give us call and we can
also help arrange docking for your visit.
Last year we upgraded our fuel console
and replaced fuel hoses. This has allowed
us to better serve our customers. Dock
and Dredge has also replaced our floating
dock with a 40 foot wave actuator. This will help protect the downtown
location during stronger east winds. Also, it allows us to safely handle
smaller crafts and jet skis. In addition to these services, we proudly
continue to maintain our Clean Marina rating.
Come see us this season and let us help make your boating season
a great one. We can be reached by radio on Channel 16, or by calling
231 526-2121. Visit Walstrom.com for updated hours of operation
and fuel prices.
By Mac Green
in a number of different positions, and after we moved here in 2009 I was
hired on as the Facilities Manager at their Harbor Springs location.
My wife Cacia, who works at The Little Traverse Conservancy, and
I both feel very fortunate to have found professions in our chosen fields.
The crew at Walstrom’s is an amazing group of people who really enjoy
what they do for a living, more so than any other place I’ve ever worked,
and I think it really shows in the great relationships they have with their
customers. I feel extremely lucky to be a part of this team and I look forward
to eventually meeting every one of our customers in person. Thank you for
the warm welcome and I am looking forward to seeing you this summer.
David Lesh
The
Outfitter
Harbor Springs
Adults & Kids
Clothing
Patagonia
Lole & Prana
The North Face
Footwear
Sperry & Ugg
Merrell & Keen
Brooks & Asics
Kayaks
Paddleboards
Sales & Rentals
Lessons & Tours
Kids Kayak Camp
Downtown Harbor Springs
outfitterharborsprings.com
231.526.2621
Open Every Day
For a complete list of our new and previously owned boats please visit www.walstrom.com
boats
previously
owned
40
Picture Your
Boat Here!
Sharing your passion for
boating since 1946
Contact the Walstrom Sales
Department at 231.526.2141
65’ 1998 Hatteras Convertible
63’ 2002 Hatteras
Raised Pilothouse
60’ 2010 Hatteras Motoryacht
60’ 2009 Hatteras Motoryacht
58’ 1999 Sea Ray
Super Sunsport
52’ 2006 Tiara Sovran Salon
52’ 2006 Tiara Sovran Salon
52’ 2000 Tiara Express
Pending
SOLD
52’ 1998 Hatteras Sport Deck
47’ 2007 Tiara 4700 Sovran
47’ 1999 Sabreline47 Aft Cabin
47’ 1998 Aft Cabin Sabreline
44’ 2004 Carver 444 ES
Cockpit MY
44’ 2001 Sunseeker Camargue
wa lstr o m .c o m
43’ 2008 Tiara 4300 Sovran
43’ 2006 Tiara 4300 Sovran
Pending
Pending
42’ 2007 Tiara 4200 Open
40’ 2007 Riviera M400
Sports Cruiser Sistership
SOLD
40’ 2005 Chris Craft 40-43
Roamer Heritage Edition
40’ 1997 Tiara 4000
Hard Top Express
40’ 1995 Tiara Express
39’ 2001 Mainship Trawler
38’ 2006 Cruisers 385 MY
38’ 2004 Tiara
Open-Harbor Edition
36’ 2008 Chris Craft Corsair
35’ 2000 Tiara 3500 Open
32’ 2006 Tiara 3200 Open
32’ 2006 Tiara 3200
Open Sistership
Pending
34’ 2002 Mainship Pilot
32’ 2008 Tiara 3200
Open Harbor Edition
B O A T I N G
T I P S
Check to make sure you have updated flares, sufficient life jackets for
all onboard, and a throwable lifesaving device. Besides being good
safety measures, the Coast Guard still does random inspections and
you don’t want to get caught without the required equipment.
wal st rom.com
41
previously owned
boats
Pending
32’ 2005 Tiara 3200 Open
continued...
31’ 2004 Pursuit Offshore
31’ 2001 Tiara 3100 Open
31’ 2000 Tiara 3100 Open
31’ 1997 Tiara 3100 Open
31’ 1996 Tiara 3100 Open
31’ 1991 Windsor Craft
31’ 1985 Tiara Open
31’ 1984 Tiara 3100
Convertible Sedan
29’ 2008 Tiara Coronet
29’ 2005 Tiara 2900 Coronet
29’ 2004 Tiara 2900
Coronet Sistership
29’ 1994 Tiara 2900 Open
28’ 2007 Chris Craft Launch
28’ 2005 Chris Craft Corsair
Heritage Edition
27’ 1988 Tiara Continental
SOLD
SOLD
26’ 2007 Pursuit 265 Denali
42
25’ 2010 Hunt 25 Harrier
17’ 1941 Chris Craft
Reproduction
For a complete list of our new and previously owned boats
please visit www.walstrom.com
EST. 1995
• B AY H A
T he
kes
Corporate Meetings
C LU B •
Weddings and Receptions
R
T
Bay Harbor Yacht Docks
u
enter of the G
re
at
Y
R AC
BO
H
al C
c
i
t
La
Na
Welcome Home to the Lifestyle
Membership Privileges Offer:
Exquisite Dining and Service
Fitness and Family Programs
Charitable Events
4300 Vista Drive in Bay Harbor | (231) 439-2100 | www.bayharboryc.com
Children’s Activities
Join Us For Our Premier Summer Events!
Open Air Market every Friday beginning May 25 from 2pm - 6pm
In Water Boat Show - June 15 - 17
Vintage Car & Boat Festival - June 22 - 24
Fireworks & Petoskey Steel Drum Band - July 3
Main Street Parade - July 4
Arts Festival - August 4 & 5
villageatbayharbor.com
Located 3 miles south of Petoskey on US-31
Boutique Shopping & Dining - Open Year Round
231.439.2650
110 E. Third Street
Harbor Springs
526.0585
Your Downtown
Family Salon

Owner, June Blakemore
John demmer Continued from page 26
over 180 degrees, and trap the GI in the hull.
We developed spring-loaded trap doors on
the sides. If the vehicle turned over, soldiers
would pull a toggle and the spring door would
open and they could get out.”
“I transferred to Camp Chaffee, Arkansas,
where I prepared equipment for shipment
overseas. Our company shipped out during
the height of U boat activity. When we arrived
at the English Channel, General Bradley
ordered to unload at Cherberg, on the Cotenin
Peninsula of France because it had big cranes.
Once assembled, we had to cross fields with
hedgerows or trenches with trees on either
side. They were occupied by Germans armed
with bazookas (Panzer Faust) which could rip
through the soft bottom of our tanks. We
built plows to attach to the front of the tanks
to push the hedges into the ditch and then
drive over the top.”
“Old Blood and Guts, General George
Patton and our 3rd army broke through. The
only thing that stopped him was the lack of
fuel. Our mission was to keep track of tank
losses and keep the tank battalions up to
strength. In the city of Eupen, just west of
the Rhine, there was a cable factory we used
to work on tanks. The first night of the Battle
of the Bulge, fifteen of us were sleeping in the
factory when at 2 AM, a brick wall crashed in
on us. An 88 shell had gone through a foot
thick wall but failed to explode. We were saved
by some German saboteur who intentionally
left out a key part.”
“We put a lot of tanks back in action by
being able to fix them. But the Germans were
coming and we knew they would overpower
us. We needed to get out or we would have
to give up our armor to them, so we moved
everything to a town in Belgium. I had the
cables to drag the equipment through the
rough roads and bad weather.”
General’s authorization and a ¾ ton weapons
carrier, I promised to be back in 3 days. The
owner of the shop turned it over to me and
we worked 12 hour shifts. I lived up to my
promise and even drilled a hole in the handle
and added buckskin lace so the crew leader
could tie the gauge to his belt and not lose it.
Two days later, Maderias showed me a simple
drawing of a piece of steel welded to a wedge
bolt from the track of a tank. Grousers, as they
are called, are the detail mounted to the track
to be installed in mud, ice, and snow; without
it in winter, tanks were useless. We moved back
to Belgium where we found a steel warehouse
to build the parts. By the end of the first week,
we had ten loaded 6x6 trucks. We then went
down to southern France to get equipment in
operating condition so the allies could capture
over 300,000 Germans. Between Bastogne
and St. Vith, the fiercest battle of the war was
fought.”
“General Maderias, who later became
Secretary of Defense, contacted me because
I knew something about gauges. I was 23 at
the time. The 50 cal. machine gun was our
main weapon. The space between the rear of
the barrel and the bolt is extremely sensitive.
During the Bulge, most of the crews lost their
spacer gauges and the time lost in guessing
at the correct setting could be life or death.
Because I was curious by nature, I remembered
a small tool and die shop in France with heat
treatment and grinding equipment. With the
“After the Bulge, we crossed the Rhine into
Nuremburg, Germany. Our orders to destroy
the huge German jet fighter plane factory called
Skoda Works in Pilson, Czechoslovakia were
cancelled because Hitler surrendered. I was
aboard the second troop ship to leave Belgium
and be greeted by a ticker tape parade in New
York. I remember tears in my eyes passing the
Statue of Liberty. While back home, I went to
lunch in Saginaw with Marnie, and sirens went
off. The Japanese had surrendered, cancelling
my trip to Japan.”
46
wa lstr o m .c o m
“In l946, Marnie’s father owned a good
sized tool and die shop and invited me to come
back to work in Lansing. After four years, the
Korean War started. If I was ever going into
business, this was the time.”
John reached into his pocket and pulled out
a piece of paper. On it was written, “Chance
is the one thing you can’t buy. You have to pay
for it with your life, spending a lot of time;
you pay for it with time, not the wasting of
time but the spending of time,” by Robert
Doisneau. “This was the turning point in
my career. In l951, I borrowed $7,500 on
our house and bought ACE Manufacturing in
Lansing with 5 employees.”
“By the end of the first year, we had 40
employees. I knew there would be a lot of
defense work, so I bought fifteen acres adjacent
to the airport on Capital Blvd. By l960, we
had 100 employees. I called on Oldsmobile.
My desire was to keep improving our ability to
work on larger jobs requiring larger overhead
cranes. My armor background and working
on tanks gave me the desire to work on larger
equipment. You can do a small job on a big
machine, but you can’t do a big job on a small
machine.”
“Today we have equipment to put a tank
on a table to perform milling operations on it.
In the l970’s, we purchased the Novo pump
and engine complex. It had a crane capable of
lifting 75 tons. Today it is an air-conditioned
building with 100,000 sq. ft. In l994, we
purchased the Motor Wheel property in
Lansing with 1 million sq. ft. under one roof
and several long crane bays designed for heavy
lifting. We had been a defense contractor since
l974. The purchase of Motor Wheel gave us
the ability to set up assembly lines. We were a
large supplier for the hummer. We also built
the M-RAP, mine resistant ambush protected
vehicle. The army furnished the engine,
transmission and differential. We furnished
every thing else and did the assembly. Our
employment increased to over 1500 people.
Our ability to produce heavy equipment has
recently led to a contract with Caterpillar.
We also have a contract for building cabs for
diesel locomotive trains. We now have over 2
million sq. ft. of manufacturing space.”
were able to spend more time on the water.
We traveled with a group of four or five boats;
the owners were Max and Marti Goldman,
Jack and Jackie Burley, Bill and Dianne Conn,
and Charlie and Shirley Crockett. Mackinac
Island was a favorite spot, and we joined the
yacht club. On the 35’ we wanted to go to the
Hackamatack Inn up the Cheboygan River, so
I had the shop in Petoskey build a telescopic
radar mast that could be lowered to go under
the fixed bridge.”
Demmer became a subcontractor for
Walstrom Marine making various parts,
including numerous aluminum radar mounts
for Jerry Park to install on boats. Although
this business was not a significant contribution
to Demmer’s sales, it was undoubtedly high on
“
“Back when I was younger, a guy asked
me when was the last time I had a physical.
I said, ‘just after the army.’ He sent me to
Burns Clinic in Petoskey to see Dr. Ben Blum.
After the physical, I went to Mackinac Island.
I asked the dock master ‘how do people own
these boats, to which he replied, have you ever
heard of a bank?’ ” That’s when I got interested
in deep water boating. My father had a place
on Houghton Lake. We had pontoon boats
and also waterskied on the lake. Travels to
Harbor Springs and Mackinaw increased my
desire to be on the Great Lakes.”
“Approximately 1972, I talked to Ward
Walstrom, Sr. about buying a condo in Marina
Village. The day before, he had sold the last
one. But he told me he owned 40 acres on
Horton Bay and we could rent a house there.
For the next two years, we had very pleasant
vacations in Horton Bay.”
“I developed a relationship with Ward Jr.,
because I felt it was important to do business
with Ward’s son. I had a 31’ Lyman, and rented
a slip in the basin. Before I bought the Lyman,
I took the Lansing Power Squadron course in
advanced seamanship and celestial navigation.
The next year I bought a 35’ Bertram. Over the
next several years, I bought a 38’, 46’, and 54’
Bertram. We took delivery of the 46 in Miami
and brought it up the intercoastal waterway.
With the 54’, we went outside Norfolk, and
up the Hudson also. Both times we stopped at
Charleston, which we like. Marnie also loved
the water. Even in bad weather, she was a good
mate. Our favorite ports were Beaver Island
and Northport. We also enjoyed Leland. As
son Bill took over more of the business, we
Studies at MSU was established. In Petoskey,
the John and Marnie Demmer Wellness Center
was completed in the summer of 2011.”
Another way John has contributed to his
community is employment of MSU student
athletes. Over 700 student athletes have
passed through John’s door, including Charles
Baggett and Ty Willingham. “They still call
me Dad when I see them.” Demmer is still
actively employing students at MSU, both in
basketball and football.
John Demmer taught many folks, including
myself, his ways of hard work and sacrifice.
Another thing I learned from John was how
to entertain. After football games at MSU, I
was invited to his tool and die shop on Capital
Blvd. Here was John
greeting and taking care of
people he loved. Outside
the door was a smiling
man behind a BBQ grill.
Inside was a spread fit for a
king. There were football
players,
employees,
customers, family, and
friends eager to hear a
story from John.
John Demmer taught many
folks, including myself, his ways
of hard work and sacrifice.
Another thing I learned from
John was how to entertain.
the job foreman’ s priority list. John’s Bertams
were always heavily equipped. If you got up
close, you would see custom hardware, step
pads, grab rails, ladders, and brackets made of
teak and aluminum by John’s metal shop.
“I have been fortunate to have been married
to a person who could roll with the punches,
and not everything has been easy. When I was
out on the road looking for business, Marnie
did a real good job raising the children. This
was a blessing.”
When asked about his philanthropy, John
was extremely humble. “Growth of the
business has enabled us to do some things we
are proud of, including the John and Marnie
Demmer Shooting Sports Center and the Hall
of History in the Duffy Dougherty Building at
MSU. In the middle of December 2011, the
John and Marnie Institute for Entrepreneurial
”
As I casually recalled
day trips on the tug Ottawa, John’s face lit
up. This is his pride and joy. Perhaps John
is comfortable on the tug because it is made
of steel. Every summer, you may see him on
the aft deck of the Ottawa with the coaches
of MSU. He will still be entertaining in his
grand style. And he will always have a good
story to tell. I am honored to claim John
Demmer as a friend. And Walstrom Marine
has for many years been fortunate to claim as
customer, subcontractor, engineer, toolmaker,
and friend the “man with the steel hands and
gold heart.”
By Ward Walstrom, Jr.
wal st rom.com
47
231.526.8495 | searsarchitects.com
Harbor SpringS Waterfront & Water VieW propertieS
waterfront – glenn Drive
breathtaking Lake Views
birchwood Farms View Home
This gracious home is situated along the shores of Lake Michigan
and offers wonderful sandy beach frontage, panoramic views and
the best of Harbor Springs living. There is plenty of room for entertaining family and friends with 5 BR, 4 BA, and (2) ½ BA, finished
lower level, 2 fireplaces, elevator and quality features throughout.
This premier Glenn Drive location offers a private setting within walking distance of downtown Harbor Springs. $4,950,000
Enjoy breathtaking Lake Michigan views, a private setting and
convenient location on the bluff across from the entrance to
Birchwood Farms. This spacious 5 BR, 5 BA + (2) ½ BA home
offers a main level master suite, office, fieldstone fireplace, large
deck with screened dining gazebo, and 3 car garage. Family and
friends will enjoy the lower level family room with fireplace, kitchenette, and arcade room. A great value at $950,000
Located within the Meadows of Birchwood this wonderful 4 BR,
3 ½ BA home offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Rolling Meadows. Features include main level living with a spacious
open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, wood burning fireplace, wet
bar, finished lower level and spacious deck. Enjoy Birchwood’s
impressive clubhouse, pool, tennis, and 27 holes of golf. Offered
at $395,000
Exceptional waterfront
cottage charm with beach access
Harbor Springs waterfront
An exceptional Lake Michigan building site situated on desirable
Fern Drive in Harbor Springs. Enjoy a wonderful swimmer friendly
sandy beach, mature trees, level building site, and gorgeous
views overlooking Little Traverse Bay. Located close to downtown
Harbor Springs. A rare find $ 2,590,000
Enjoy sparkling water views and beach access from this charming
5 BR/5 BA home located close to downtown Harbor Springs. Cozy
rooms, fir floors, stone fireplace, bead board, beautifully updated
master suite and kitchen, and cozy guest house add to the charm of
this wonderful year round home or cottage. $499,000
Spacious seven bedroom waterfront home with 166’ of Lake Michigan
beach frontage and beautiful water views. The comfortable open floor
plan is the ideal beach home with plenty of room for entertaining family and friends. Enjoy the screened-in porch, large deck, 2 fireplaces,
3 car garage, bonus room, and spacious family room. $849,000
102 E. Main StrEEt
•
Harbor SpringS, Mi 49740
Prudential_1/2.indd 1
•
gill whitman
AssociAte Broker
gwhitman@upnorth.com
(231) 526-9800
(866) 526-9009
w w w. p p r M i . c o M
4/26/12 9:52 AM
PREMIER MICHIGAN WATERFRONT ESTATE
Mackinac Island
LEARN TO
SAIL
Weekly Youth Sailing School
Adult/Family Sailing on a 34' boat
Mackinac Island’s grand “Lakewood” cottage takes you back in time to the turn
of the century. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the 55 foot covered front porch, as
you watch the freighters pass through the Straits of Mackinac. Create wonderful
memories with your family and friends in this fabulously warm and richly designed
waterfront resort home that features architectural details and
accents that will take your breath away. $3,250,000
Thomas P. Mooradian
TomMooradian@PPRMI.com
Located on theHarbor Springs Waterfront
www.LittleTraverseSailors.org
(231) 838-4484
CELL: 616-334-6672
BUS: 231-526-9800 x15
102 E. MAIN STREET • HARBOR SPRINGS, MI 49740
WWW.PPRMI.COM
Celebrating 25 Years in Cheboygan Continued from page 8
The following year, Walstrom purchased
approximately 1 ½ blocks on Coast Guard
Drive for future boat storage, and also
purchased a house which was converted into
boater’s bathrooms, shower and laundry
facilities for our dockage customers, and served
as headquarters for the Cheboygan Yacht Club
for many years.
In 1989, due to increased demand for
heated storage, a 12,000 square-foot addition
was built, bringing the total storage space to
30,000 square feet. Business prospered, and
as time went on, additional development took
place. A 10,000 square-foot cold storage
building was raised on Coast Guard Drive
in 1991. That same year, the north end
of Walstrom’s river frontage was dug out by
Ginop Construction, and a bulkhead was
installed with a launch ramp.
The customer base in Cheboygan continued
to expand through the years, and the need for
additional dockage and storage was evident.
In 1995, new floating docks were installed
on the north and south ends of the existing
docks. In 1996, a 12,000 square-foot addition
to the heated storage building was completed,
which contained new offices and a parts room.
The trailer which had served as an office for
the service manager was sold. Two years
later, a second unheated storage building was
constructed on the corner of First and
C Streets, which provided an additional
12,000 square feet of storage. That
building was converted to heated storage
in 2007.
During this period, work orders and sales
slips were handwritten. The Cheboygan
location didn’t have a computer until the
50
wa lstr o m .c o m
late 1990’s. In 2000, Cheboygan became
electronically integrated with the Harbor
Springs location and began using
DockMaster
software,
which
streamlined billing and simplified
customer file maintenance.
Along the riverfront, the bulkhead
was moved back ten feet in 2002,
lengthening the 60-foot slips to
70 feet, once again, in an effort to
accommodate larger boats. New
boater bathrooms were constructed
with showers and laundry facilities.
A new 27,300 square-foot heated
storage building was added in
2003, and in 2005, the
Ship’s Store building on State Street was
removed, and condensed into the parts
room. Walstrom also purchased a lot
on Coast Guard Drive and developed
it for additional outside storage.
A few years ago, Walstrom’s
Cheboygan location was certified as
a Clean Marina. We are very proud
of that status. We’ve taken measures
to ensure that no chemicals, oil or
pollutants go back into
the water and do our
part to protect the
marine environment. Walstrom
Marine of Harbor Springs was
the first certified Clean Marina
in the state of Michigan!
We are currently remodeling
our service department. We
are replacing the carpeting,
painting and adding a new reception counter.
General Manager Joe Kuchnicki has moved
into the office and is preparing for the launch
season. Things are always changing, but we
feel that our new setup will help us to better
serve our customers and we look forward
to welcoming you into our “new” service
department!
Anniversaries are a time for celebrating and
looking back. Much has changed since 1987.
President Reagan and Whitney Houston are
no longer with us, and the price of gasoline
has quadrupled since then. How the Detroit
Tigers will fare this season remains to be seen,
but Walstrom Marine’s Cheboygan location is
standing strong, today boasting 78,000 square
feet of heated, 10,000 square feet of cold,
and 32,000 square feet of outside storage, 41
slips for transient and seasonal dockage, WiFi service, new and used
boat sales, service,
and a Ship’s Store.
It’s truly quite
remarkable
how
much we’ve grown
from our early days.
In these tough
economic times, we
don’t take our success
for granted. As we prepare to celebrate our
25th anniversary in Cheboygan, we look back
at the progression of our expansion with pride
and a sincere sense of appreciation to all who
have played a role in growing our company;
from the city officials who welcomed Walstrom
Marine to Cheboygan a quarter-century ago,
to employees past and present, to our most
valuable asset … our customers. Without
our customers, we wouldn’t exist and we
wouldn’t have reached this milestone. We
value your patronage and look forward to
serving you well into the future.
The Boat House
of Harbor Springs
T
he summer of 2012 will mark the
third full season for The Boathouse of
Harbor Springs. Members will enjoy
an active schedule this summer starting with
our third annual Lobster Boil party in June, a
Southwestern themed dinner in August complete
with a Mariachi band, as well as a weekly social
gathering in the newly remodeled Boater’s
Lounge. Additionally, several improvements
have been made during the offseason to
maximize member enjoyment while spending
time at the club. These additions include a new
website, updating the Boater’s Lounge and front
office areas, as well as the rebuilding of the outer
docks, just to name a few.
Walstrom Dock and Dredge started rebuilding
the outer docks this past fall, and will finish their
project in the spring before the busy summer
season begins. Starting with a floating wave
attenuator that was installed in May of 2011,
the D&D crew picked up where they left off and
installed a new wooden breakwall along the outer
docks of The Boathouse last October. The new
wall extends nearly to the bottom of the bay and
is braced by steel pilings for strength. Combined
with the wave attenuator, the new breakwall will
offer significantly better protection from east
winds. Construction will continue when the
temperature warms up and will include all new
decking, power pedestals, and lengthening of
slips 57 and 58 by nearly 10 feet.
The Boater’s Lounge received a complete
facelift during the offseason, and the front office
area was updated by adding a fresh coat of paint
along with new flooring and furniture. The
remodeled lounge is expected to become the
hub of social activity within the club, as informal
weekly gatherings have already been planned.
Over 30 individual member lockers were
installed in the lounge, as well as new appliances,
cabinetry, and countertops. Additionally, the
teak floor was refinished to give the lounge a
rich, nautical feel.
Throughout the summer of 2011, members
enjoyed daily lunch service from Stafford’s Pier
Restaurant on the club deck. The old wall
between The Boathouse and the Pier was torn
down and replaced by a new wall with a doorway
between Dudley’s Deck and the Boathouse deck,
allowing servers to pass through and deliver meals
to Boathouse members. The Pier will continue
this service in 2012 and plans are underway to
offer dinner service by reservation.
Furthermore, the Boathouse launched a new
website in December. Combined with a new
and easy to navigate design, the site will also
feature a member’s only section, which will allow
each Boathouse member the ability to log in
and communicate with fellow members, post
pictures, and access club information.
With only 20 memberships remaining out of
62, The Boathouse of Harbor Springs is well on
its way towards establishing itself as one of the
premier yacht clubs on the Great Lakes.
wal st rom.com
51
t r u e s t o ry
He made it first. We made it last.
At the cusp of retirement twenty some odd years ago, a successful executive needed his assets to
work harder than ever. He desired to travel widely; spend summers at the family cottage; support
favored charities; help the grandkids pay for college; maintain the style of living to which he and his
wife had become accustomed; build a new home; and still leave enough in his personal trust to
benefit heirs. With stock options, 401(k) and other assets in hand, he turned to us and said,
“Put these to work. I trust you.” It was trust well placed. In the ensuing decades, we managed his
wealth through three recessions and countless unforeseen events. With investment skill, discipline,
and the client’s financial well being at the center of every decision we made, his wealth not only was
preserved, it increased.
We’re the first to say not every story has such a fairy tale
ending. But with client satisfaction rates approaching 100%,
and our unwavering focus on integrity and trust, it is safe to
say that Greenleaf Trust clients appear to live happily ever
after. If you’d like to learn how we can help you achieve
financial security from generation to generation, call us.
We’ll give you the full story.
g r e e n l e a f t r u s t. c o m
kalamazoo birmingham grand rapids holland traverse city petoskey
800.416.4555
Come... love the life
Killarney, Ontario
Luxury Full Service Marina & Boutique Inn
Full Service Marina / Gas / Diesel / Pump-out / Showers / Store
Fine Dining / Martini Bar / Wine Cellar / Pub Bar
Conferences / Weddings / Special Events
George Island Spa / Gym / Guided Fishing Tours
Kayak & Water Bike Rentals / Hiking Trail
Reservations
Toll Free: 877-333-7510
Email: info@sportsmansinn.ca
www.sportsmansinn.ca
FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR CONTACT
PATRICK LEAVY (231) 838-6700 MOBILE
LAKE CHARLEVOIX WATERFRONT
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LAKE CHARLEVOIX WATERFRONT
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TO VIEW MORE PROPERTIES AND PHOTOS VISIT
WWW.PATLEAVY.COM
BAY HARBOR WATERFRONT
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WALLOON LAKE WATERFRONT
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High Hopes, Low Lake Levels Continued from page 29
About Tip of the Mitt
Watershed Council:
Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council speaks for
our members including fulltime and seasonal
residents, lake associations, and businesses.
We work to maintain the environmental
integrity and economic and aesthetic values of
lakes, streams, wetlands, and ground water in
Northern Michigan, as well as statewide and
throughout the Great Lakes Basin. As the lead
organization for water resources protection in
Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet
Counties, the Watershed Council is working to
preserve the heritage of Northern Michigan – a
tradition built around our magnificent waters.
For additional info
on lake levels visit:
Great Lakes Environmental
Research Laboratory
http://www.glerl.noaa.gov
Great Lakes Web Cams
http://www.glerl.noaa.gove/webcams
CoastWatch Satellite Data
http://coastwatch.glerl.noaa.gov
US Army Corp of Engineers
Great Lakes Water Levels Page
http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/
greatlakes/hh/greatlakeswaterlevels/
Likely the greater impact will come at a cost
to marinas. As water levels recede, marinas have
fewer slips to sell to boaters. The need to dredge
boat slips, channels, and harbors will increase
dramatically, costing millions. A report from
the Michigan Boating Industries Association
estimated that marinas in Michigan spent
over $11 million in 1999 alone, due to low
lake levels. It is estimated that a drop of one
foot below 1999 levels would cost marinas an
additional $41 million.
The Great Lakes have always fluctuated. It is
difficult for us to realize that, because dramatic
shifts in lake levels can take a long time to
unfold. We can easily judge changes we see
from season to season, but changes that happen
decade to decade are more difficult to grasp –
especially as it is happening. Today, the citizens
of the Great Lakes Basin are growing more and
more concerned because the lakes remain in the
midst of a low trend. The International Upper
Great Lakes Study has many study teams,
committees, work groups, and advisory groups
that are examining systems from Lake Superior
downstream through Lake Erie to determine
changes in outflows, evaluate their impacts,
and provide options and recommendations to
the International Joint Commission.
Currently, low lake levels are likely the result
of a combination of factors, such as climate
change, weather fluctuations, dredging, or
even lingering effects of glaciers! No matter
the cause, we worry when it happens and our
instinct is to do something about it, if possible.
While conclusions are that climate and
weather changes affect lake levels far more than
existing human influences, there is potential
for human stressors to add pressure. Proposals
for future diversions are subject to the Great
Lakes Compact, but states are responsible for
fully implementing the Compact, over time.
If they do not, human factors could add to
natural factors and combine to permanently
change water levels.
While it is recognized that low water
levels can have a significant impact upon the
environment and economy of the Great Lakes
region, including millions of recreational
boaters, it is again important to recognize
what the Great Lakes are… a dynamic, living,
evolving system. The shapes and sizes of the
Great Lakes are not what they were 10,000
years ago, and they will not remain how
they are today, centuries into the future. We
choose to live and recreate on this magnificent
resource and with that, we must understand
that the Lakes undergo natural ecological
processes.
Whatever conditions we face, we need to do
what we can to protect and restore our beloved
Great Lakes so they can be the cornerstone of
our grandchildren’s fondest memories, just as
they were for us.
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For more information Contact Tom or Wayne in the Harbor Springs Parts Department at
(231) 526-9186 or 526-9187. In Cheboygan, contact Julie at (231) 627-7105.
56
wa lstr o m .c o m
More than just interest. Interested.
Taking a real interest in your business is how we tailor financial solutions to meet your needs. We’re geared toward
helping you grow your business, navigate new markets ... whatever drives your ambition. And because we don’t
answer to division managers or sales quotas, we’re able to focus more on you ... and your business success.
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Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.
Island Spirit Continued from page 13
If you’re a wee bit hungry (or thirsty, perhaps)
after the passage from the mainland, there
are several good options. First, by location,
reputation and tradition, is the Shamrock
Bar. Located downtown across from the ferry
dock, the Shamrock has excellent food, from
Pub fare to full-on dinners. This is the primary
watering hole on the island, and features live
music and dancing on most weekends. Eric
and Dana Hodgson are the hardworking
owners who couldn’t be nicer people if they
tried, and are dedicated to excellent quality
and professional service. That’s a good thing,
because they also own part of the Beaver Island
Lodge, as well as the Beachcomber Bar and the
Harbour Market. Best white-tablecloth dining
on the island with incredible sunset views
of neighboring Garden Island? The Lodge,
without doubt. Best Ice Cream (Moomers!)?
Harbour Market, for sure. Live traditional
guitar and Irish-inspired music on the front
porch of a rustic waterfront saloon? The
Beachcomber is the place for you. Located just
outside of town are Donegal Danny’s Pub and
the Stoney Acre Grill (owned by a charming
couple, Liam and Marilyn Racine, who are
willing to pick you up if you don’t have a ride
231-448-2560) and both are worth a visit.
There really is something for everyone, none
of it pretentious...all of it very casual and just
plain fun.
For major groceries, fresh vegetables, fresh
meats, liquor, gifts and party supplies, head
down to the Northeast part of the harbor and
go to McDonough’s Market. Bill and Tammy
McDonough run the store, along with many
brothers, sisters, sons, daughters and in-laws.
A nicer, more generous and caring family you
will not find. The McDonough’s also own and
operate the Island’s most popular deli, the
Dalwhinnie. Located next to McDonough’s
Market, they serve excellent breakfasts and
incredible sandwiches, and they feature
Starbucks and Seattle’s Best coffees. Dine
58
wa lstr o m .c o m
inside, or, weather permitting, enjoy the view
from your table on the front porch.
There are some unique retail stores around
St. James for those looking to bring a little
something back from the island: Whimsy,
Montaage, Livingston Studio (art gallery) and
the Toy Museum, to name a few. For those
interested in some exercise, there are plenty of
great hiking, walking, biking and running trails
throughout the Island. One of my favorites is
an old narrow-gauge railroad grade that leads
to Protar’s Tomb (island history, and I’m not
going there...Google it!). The municipal tennis
courts are gorgeous and just a short walk from
the downtown docks. There is a shop across
from the Shamrock that rents bicycles...an
excellent way to get around town.
If time allows during the WM Cruise (or,
when you come back after getting the lay of
the land), you should explore some of the
other islands that make up the Beaver Island
Archipelago. The two that are closest and
easiest to get to are High Island (due west of
Beaver) and Garden Island (north of Beaver).
Of the two, my favorite is the West side of
High, that features a large, sand-bottomed bay.
If memory serves, it’s about a six-mile jaunt
around the North side of Beaver (between it
and Garden), above the North shore of High
and down its west side. Once anchored in the
bay, and with dinghy deployed, you can access
the incredible dunes that dominate the island.
Take some shoes ashore and hike up to the top
of the highest dune...the cooling breezes will
make it worthwhile, as will the view of Beaver
looking east and Gull Island to the Southwest.
You have to pick your day to comfortably
anchor here, however, as the bay is wide open
to westerlies. Wait for a light westerly day, or,
better yet, head over when it’s blowing out
of the East. The other anchorage is along the
Northeast shore, but features a rather stoney
beach and dramatic drop-off from the shore,
and it’s not uncommon to see a fairly large
boat with its bow pulled right up close to the
“beach”. This is a fairly deep anchorage once
off the shore, but it is very protected from
breeze from any westerly direction.
Garden Island has two anchorages worth
visiting. The first, North Cut, is relatively
close to St. James. Protected from all directions
except due south, it has a sugar-sand bottom
and is great for swimming. The other, Indian
Harbor, is to the west of North Cut, and is
incredible. It can be a little tricky getting to
for the first time, as you have to go west quite
a ways to clear rocky shoals before swinging
north, then back to the east for the entrance.
Once in there, there’s plenty of room to anchor,
and it’s as close to a North Channel anchorage
as you’ll find in this area. One can dingy to
a trail that leads to a Native American burial
ground with many interesting headstones and
spirit houses dating back to the turn of the
century. If on Garden Island, this shouldn’t be
missed.
What strikes me the most about these “out
islands” is that, if you squint a little, it looks
like the Bahamas. With the empty, pristine
sand beaches flowing down to crystal-clear,
turquoise shaded waters, it’s a bit of spectacular
right here in our back yard. Get out there, get
the polarized Maui Jim’s on and you’ll see
exactly what I mean.
Speaking of the Bahamas, there might be
some fishing enthusiasts in the fleet that may
have enjoyed Bone fishing on a Bahamian
flat somewhere, fly rod in hand. If so, there’s
a counterpart in these waters that’s just as
challenging to engage on a fly and a heck of
a lot bigger than your average Bonefish. I’m
referring to the Carp, often found in the
shallows of Beaver, Garden, High and Hog
Islands. While not glamorous, the Carp
(we prefer to call them “Golden Bones” in
these parts!) are really fun to hook up on an
8-weight fly rod (my last one weighed 25
pounds!). Believe it or not, there are guides
available that will get you out there, stalking
Golden Bones! (Kevin Morlock, Indigo Guide
Service 231-898-4320)
With many excellent anchorages, good
marina facilities, shopping, entertainment,
naturally beautiful surroundings, unique
fishing, interesting history, great people and
big plans in store by the Walstrom Marine
Party Patrol, Beaver Island will be an ideal
destination for the WM 2012 Cruise. If you’re
a frequent visitor, you already know how
unique the Island is. If you’re considering a
first-time visit, I doubt very much that you’ll
be disappointed. There’s an island spirit that
lives just over the northwestern horizon. Come
on! Thirty-two miles! I hope to see y’all there!
This article should not be used for navigation
(but may be suitable for wrapping fish).
Are You Linked to Your Yacht?
gplink is a satellite-based tracking, monitoring, and
notification system for Cat® powered yachts. gplink
uses an extensive network of low-earth-orbit satellites
to provide worldwide coverage and ensure that your
connections are reliable and affordable.
Monitor & Track
Remotely plot your yacht’s
location while monitoring
engines & critical systems.
Diagnose & Repair
Cat® technicians can view &
respond to engine conditions
remotely, in near real-time.
Secure & Protect
Receive instant notification
of alarm conditions or
unauthorized movements of
your yacht.
www.gplink.com
Get Specialized Insurance Protection and Discounts!
Visit gplink.com for more information on the ACE gplink Insurance Program!