Whispering Pines

Whisper in g Pi nes
Whispering Pines
Volume
Issue
Available in color at www.michaywe.com
Drinks and Links: A “Wicked” Good Time
On a lovely summer Sunday afternoon in mid July, the Michaywé
Pines Golf Course once again hosted the Z League’s Drinks and Links
event.
If you don’t know about the Z League, it is a group of women who
believe in having fun on and off the golf course. They don’t take
themselves seriously nor the rules of golf. When you play with the Z
League, there are no penalties and you don’t need to keep score! Z
League special tricks such as the Hand Wedge, Foot Hybrid and Rake
Niblick will help you enjoy your time on the course. And Drinks and
Links is the pinnacle of Z League fun. Z Leaguers and members of the
Ladies League “played” the first nine holes of the course visiting one
home on each hole that was hosted by one or more members of the
Men’s League.
The theme is this year’s event was Broadway and the costumes, sets,
exotic drinks and creative hors d’oeuvres were all worthy of Tony
awards! Here are the hosts of each hole with their Broadway musical
and the honor awarded by the Z League event organizer, Nancy
Raynes:
Hole No. 1
Dave Castelein
“Wicked”
Best Angry Balls
Hole No. 2
Tom Raynes
“Mamma Mia”
Best Mama Drink
Hole No. 3
Ken Lixie
“Grease”
Best Meatballs
(Continued on page 30)
Right: Dave Castelein demonstrates personal courage, great legs and a
terrific sense of humor serving his “Wicked” drinks at Hole Number One.
Mah-Jongg Comes to Michaywé
Michaywé folks are interesting people involved in many different activities and here is another one. A new group has just been formed by
Laurie Breen to teach and play Mah-Jongg, the ancient Chinese game of
skill, strategy, and calculation. Mahjong is very similar to Rummy and
is played with tiles that have Chinese characters on them. The 154 tiles
of Mahjong comprise 34 distinct designs with 4 of each kind. The main
(Continued on page 4)
Fall, 2014
PAGE 2
WHISPERING PINES
Message from the President

Much has happened since the last Business Review was
issued in May 2014. Positive actions were as follows:

Overwhelming support of the Board’s recommendations to defeat the petition proposals that would
have had a negative impact on the manner in which
Michaywé operates.

Chip & seal road improvements were completed on
the remainder of roads within the Otsego Lake
Township portion of Michaywé. Please see the article from the MOA Road Committee for more details.

The 2013 Financial Audit Report verified that there
were sufficient funds to pay all operating expenses,
all amenities were kept open and operational, all of
our debt obligations were met, we re-invested
$32,209 in capital community improvements, and a
$50,000 contribution was made to the Maintenance
& Reserve Fund.
Written by Glen A. Roberts
Michaywé home sales prices have risen 19% during
the past year.
I am sorry to report that Mike Buckley, our long-serving
Board President, resigned this past September. Mike
had served on the Board for the past five years, four of
which he admirably served as President. During Mike’s
tenure as a director, the income generated by the
Michaywé Pines Golf Course and Inn the Woods Restaurant have increased to nearly 60% of our total revenue. This has enabled us to offset the deterioration in
value of the MOA annual dues, which have not been
increased in the past twelve years. Please join me in
thanking Mike for his dedicated and tireless service to
our community. I will look forward to seeing Mike as he
participates in the various Michaywé projects that interest him.
Going forward, the MOA Board will focus on continued
operational and financial improvement, and maintaining the value of our community assets. This will support
increasing property values when compared to the surrounding communities as the Board continues to evaluate our long-term financial needs.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 3
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 4
Mah-Jongg Taught by Local Expert Laurie Breen
(Continued from page 1)
objective is to build and duplicate a hand from a
“standard card” issued by the National Mah-Jongg
League. This is done through drawing and discarding
the tiles. It is usually played by four players, but can
also be played with three.
The group meets Thursdays from 10 am to 1 pm currently at the clubhouse but at Opal Lake Park in the
summer.
This is a “drop in” group, meaning that you can just
drop in whenever you’re available to play. Substitutes
are not required and there is no membership fee although purchase of the “standard card” is necessary at a
cost of $9 per year. The group has 15 members but is
always looking for more. New players with little or no
experience are always welcome to join at any time. Laurie is an excellent teacher
and will be glad to get
you started. “I like teaching it almost as well as
playing it,” she said.
If you would like to learn
this challenging game
from a good teacher, stop
by on Thursdays. If you
have any questions, you
can call Laurie at 989-9397432.
Michaywé Roads Continue to Improve
Again in 2014 our roads were improved considerably.
With the continued assistance of the Otsego County
Road Commission and Otsego Lake Township, eight
roads saw upgrades:

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Opal Lake Road, North Star and Bent Tree received a “tar and chip” coating and then a sealer coat;
Snow Moon, Deer Park, Doe Path, Hungry Hollow and Cardinal Court had substantial work
done on the roadside ditches in anticipation of
additional work contemplated in 2014.
to be implemented. Should the millage be defeated, the
availability of funding, the work schedule and the degree of improvement to our roads will be negatively
impacted.
Please vote on November 4th. Each “yes” vote will enable Otsego County to better maintain all county roads
including our roads here in Michaywé.
The extent of this work, the upgrade of Foothills and
future improvements affecting all 26 miles of Michaywé
roads will be dependent on the availability of funds
generated from various tax sources. All recent road improvements within Michaywé have been undertaken
with funds from the Otsego County Road Commission
(gasoline taxes) and Otsego Lake and Bagley Townships
(millage).
On November 4, 2014 Otsego County property owners
will be asked to vote on a ballot proposal to establish a
1.0 mill, 10 year millage to be used exclusively for road
improvements.
Should the proposed Otsego County millage be approved, our road projects will be in an excellent position
Above: the corner or Foothills and Doe Path showing the shoulder
and drainage ditch improvements made in late summer this year
WHISPERING PINES
Kurt Jacobs
Owner/Broker
989.858.3210
www.Alpine45.com
989.858.3210
PAGE 5
Tisa
Appleton
989.614.0701
Todd
Chamberlain
989.370.7619
admin@Alpine45.com
High Trees Ct ~ $204,900
This wonderful 2570 Sq Ft 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home features a gorgeous kitchen
with hickory cabinetry & granite counter-tops and a walk-in pantry, quaint
breakfast area, separate dining area, large great room with large windows and a
slate surround wood fireplace, and main floor laundry.
A lovely 2-story entryway with open staircase to the second level featuring a lovely master suite with an unbelievable
master bathroom/closet, 3 additional bedrooms and another full bath. Full basement, 2 car attached garage, covered
front porch, large deck, nicely landscaped on a quiet Michaywe cul-de-sac.
Bluejay Cir ~ $ 127,900
4 bed, 2 bath with unique layout features a central great room with
lovely brick fireplace, a beautiful kitchen and a light & bright dining area, room for the whole
family. An additional open living area, a main floor laundry room, new central air system, natural
gas, a hot tub, and updates including 150 amp service , smart thermostat-control right from your
phone, updated electrical outlets/plugs/switches, high-end interior and exterior light fixtures. In
move-in ready condition all nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with an adjacent corner lot property
also for sale.
PAGE 6
WHISPERING PINES
Bowling League Off
to A Good Start
It doesn’t seem possible, but here we at the end
of another summer, and you’re beginning to
wonder what to do when the snow reaches your
knees.
“I have the answer,” says Mark Smith, our new
Michaywé bowling league chairperson. “Join
our league at the Gaylord Bowling Center on
Thursday afternoons beginning at 12:30 pm for
hours of fun and friendship.”
This is a “no obligation mixed league” with no
sanction fees, no substitutes required, and, best
of all, no experience necessary.
The cost is $11 per week.
Give Mark a call at 989-350-9669 to join the
league or if you have any questions.
Try it—you’ll love it!!
Your Help is Needed
for Holiday Decorating in Club House
The Club House Holiday Decorating will be
done on Tuesday, November 25 starting at 10
am.
Volunteers are needed to make our club house
look festive and welcoming.
Please contact Sue Symkowiak at 989-939–7981
if you’d like to help out.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 7
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 8
A nnua l
M ic hay w é
C hr ist ma s Lunc heo n
Event chairs are
Peggy Craft,
Terry Murphy &
Carolyn Smith
“Sant a Cl aus
is Comin g t o
Tow n ”
Noon, Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Michaywé Clubhouse
$23.00 per person
Tables of eight
Let’s help the
Otsego County
Food Pantry!
Receive a ticket for a
drawing for every
canned good you
bring. The winner
will take home a beautiful handmade Santa
Claus by American
artist Lynn Haney.
Menu
Herb seasoned and slow roasted loin of pork with almond sage stuffing,
squash puree and fresh cranberry compote
(A vegetarian option will be available)
Dessert: red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting,
chocolate mousse rosette and fresh be rries
Coffee, tea and soda included
Cash bar will be available
Your name:__________________________________ Names of others to be seated with you:
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Total attending: __________ Total $_________________ (includes coffee, tea, soda, tax and gratuity)
Please note anyone who would like the vegetarian entrée.
Make check payable to Michaywé Social Co mmittee and send to:
Caro lyn Smith
7902 Wood Thrush Circle
Gaylord, M I 49735
Deadline: November 24
Call 989-939-7030
with any questions
WHISPERING PINES
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PAGE 9
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Gaylord Country Club,
Large Back Deck
3 Bedrooms/2 Baths
Open Living Area
Basement
MLS #289476
Quiet Stree t, Private Yard
3 Bedrooms/2 Baths
Fireplace, Family Room
Basement
MLS #287902
$134,900

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Custom, Quality Built
$149,900

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Lovely Brick Home
Beautiful Corne r Lot
4 Bedrooms, Fireplace
Fenced Yard & Landscaped
Basement
Quiet Ne ighborhood
3 Bedrooms/1 Baths
Finished Basement
Fenced-in Yard & Huge Deck
MLS #287670
MLS #291259
$84,900
$109,900
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Open Living Area
10 Acres
3 Bedrooms/3 Baths
Pole Ba rn, Sauna & Hot Tub
MLS #292914
Immediate Occupancy
6 Beautiful Acres
4 Bedrooms/3 Baths
Large Kitchen, Extra Garage
Many Upgrades & Upda tes
MLS #289024
$139,900
$169,900

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80’ Private Waterfront
6 Bedrooms/4 Baths
Stone Fireplace, Extra Large Ga rage


100’ Private Waterfront
4 Bedrooms/3 Baths
Fireplace, Large Deck, Guthrie Lakes Amenities
MLS #289554
MLS #289901
$489,900
$215,000
Cindy Clark
Cell: (989) 350-5520
Office: (989) 732-9555
www.cindyclarkred.com
715 S. Wisconsin Ave
Gaylord, MI 49735
Fax: (989) 732-5751
© 2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices sy mbol are registered service
marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.
® Equal Housing Opportunity .
PAGE 10
WHISPERING PINES
“Triple Play” Hits It Out of the Park...Again!
Michaywé’s seventh dinner theater was just presented
on October 15, 16, and 17, featuring an original work,
“Triple Play”. With only a few tickets unsold nearly
300 people thoroughly enjoyed the play over its three
night run. The play was preceded by a delicious buffet dinner served downstairs in the Bridgeview Room.
Cost for the meal and a ticket to the play was a great
bargain at only $25.
In a break from the first six plays, this production was
three one-act plays united by the location, an apartment, and the apartment building’s “super”. The
plays were once again written and directed by our
own multi-talented playwright Jeanne Crenshaw.
This play set the record for the largest number of cast
members, 25, of the seven plays that Jeanne has written. Michaywé Players cast members were as follows:
Special thanks went to The Gaylord Herald Times,
Mark Miller, Eagle 101.5 FM and Mike Reling, the
MOA staff, Saturn Booksellers and Thrifty Print for
their assistance in this production.
“I’ve enjoyed writing the plays and working with the
Michaywé Players. I have set a goal to complete ten
plays before I retire and am happy to say that ideas are
already percolating for Production Number 8. It will
be presented October 2015 in the same dinner theater
format,” said Jeanne. “If you missed seeing this production, you’ll want to buy your tickets for the next
one as soon as they go on sale because they are sure to
sell out.”
Graydon Blank, Todd Chwatun, Dick Fitton,
Gary Grieger, Mark Hall, Sally Hall, Betty
Hawthorne, Jan Humbert, Ken Lixie, Liz Lixie,
Terri McCarbery, Paulie McCoy, Wally
McCoy, Ron McNeal, Jerry Moran, Julie Ohlrich, Jeff Parker, Suesan Polcyn, Vickie Putnam, Kathy Roberts, Huntley Robinson, Nan
Robinson, Doug Schubert, Bob Stimmel and
Carolyn Study.
Delphine Kerr once again took on the duties of assistant director and helped Jeanne Crenshaw with many
tasks during rehearsals and production.
The stage and set design was coordinated by John Curry along with Sally and Scott Curry. Judy Marden
headed up the props committee that consisted of Barb
Christie, Kathy Fitton, Maryanne Hall, Bonnie Kudej,
Rose Robinson, Dee Stasevich and Ann Wilson.
Makeup and hair styles were created by Sylvia
Beaudry. Costumes were designed by Delphine Kerr
and Jeanne Crenshaw and created by each cast member for the most part. Joe Colliton carried out the video production along with Gary Grieger. Doris and
Dick Wood handled ticket sales and distribution. The
program was created by Jeanne Crenshaw assisted by
Delphine Kerr and Todd Chwatun with photos by
Mike Buckley. The program was distributed by Barb
Christie, Lisa Moore and Karen Stimmel. Publicity
was taken care of by Lois Hibbler and Jeanne Crenshaw.
Above l to r: Liz Lixie and Terri McCarbery
Don’t miss more photos on next page and page 31!
Below l to r: Jerry Moran, Terri McCarbery and Liz Lixie
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 11
Left l to r: Ken Lixie,
Vickie Putnam, Doug
Schubert, Nan Robison
and Gary Grieger
Right: Ron McNeal
Below left l to r:
Graydon Blank, Julie
Ohlrich, Nan Robinson
and Gary Grieger
Below right: Betty
Hawthorne
Left l to
r: Bob
Stimmel,
Suesan
Polcyn,
and Jeff
Parker
Below l to r: Sally Hall and Kathy Roberts
Below l to r: Sally Hall, Wally McCoy and Jeff Parker
Below: The cast of “Triple Play” with playwright and director, Jeanne Crenshaw
PAGE 12
WHISPERING PINES
Treasurer's Report
Where We Have Been and Where We Are Today
I find it hard to believe that I have completed my
fourth year as your Treasurer. In 2010, I ran for the
board along with Dick Gardner and Glen Roberts.
Since then, we have welcomed Carolyn Smith, John
Bissell, Dale Jurcisin, Sally Hall, and Dick Fitton to the
Board. We are a professional team with a wide range
of skills that include banking, engineering, legal, finance, general management, and marketing. During
my time as a director, I have received a lot of Member
input. I really appreciate all of the feedback and ideas,
and I am always willing to listen.
Objectives Set & Goals Reached
In order to understand where we are today, it is helpful to understand where we were. When Dick, Glen,
and I ran for the Board, we identified a number of objectives that we hoped would earn us the trust and
confidence of the membership:

Debt: From 2000 to 2009, Michaywé borrowed
money each year because it could not manage operations on dues alone. Consequently, bank debt
peaked at about $1.8 million with debt service requiring about $200,000 per year from our dues income. Result: From 2010 through 2014, no additional debt has been incurred, and we have
worked hard to reduce the debt down to $1.1 million.

Dues Payments: Prior to 2010, unpaid membership dues exceeded $200,000 per year. Result:
Through the collections program established in
2009 and a lot of effort, this reduction in income
has been improved by over 50%.


Pines Club Subsidy: In past years, the Pines Club
(which includes our Golf and Restaurant operations) required an annual financial subsidy that
had approached $200,000. Result: Today, through
cost management and increased public revenue,
the Pines Club generated a cash surplus in 2013
and provided MOA with a nominal cash return.
We hope it will continue.
Recession: The economic recession that began in
2008 and continued through 2012 impacted
Michaywé dramatically in terms of reduced public
revenue, bad debt expenses from members, and a
significant reduction in home and lot sales. Result:
Through a lot of work, volunteer support, and
Written by John Stellman
dedication, we avoided bankruptcy, continued to
pay all of our bills, retired a significant portion of
our debt, and grew our Replacement Fund to record levels.

Amenities: We have managed to keep all amenities
available to our membership without any fees. Result: These non-revenue generating amenities,
which include the swimming pools, tennis courts,
Opal Lake Park and the cross-country ski trails,
have continued to support our property values at
higher levels than we would have seen otherwise.
In addition, we have also been able to make improvements to these amenities during the past few
years.

Home Values: Four years ago, we stated that a
considerable portion of our home values is attributable to living in a managed home owners association with a broad range of amenities. We have
made it a high priority to keep all of our amenities
operative, keep our community attractive through
reinvestment and a lot of volunteer support, and
develop relationships resulting in improved
Michaywé roads. - Result: It paid off. As we exited
the recession, we saw Michaywé home values and
sales improve, and just since September of 2013,
the average sale price of Michaywé homes has increased by 19%. We have also seen some new
home construction, which had not happened in a
few years.
The last four years were more difficult than I had ever
expected and a special thank you goes to our staff, volunteers, and members for all of your time and support.
Where We Are Today
Last year in 2013, Michaywé continued to operate at
the $400 dues level with no amenity fees for the swimming pools, Opal Lake Park, tennis courts, or cross
country skiing. This was made possible by proactively
implementing the following actions:
 We generated revenue increases by growing our
public sales. Pines Club operations now account for
61% of our total revenue, and annual membership
dues comprise the remaining 39%.
 Pines Club has generated a positive cash flow, ra-
Continued on page 13
WHISPERING PINES
Continued from page 12
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PAGE 13
Treasurer's Report
ther than requiring large subsidies as in past years.
No additional debt has been incurred - only debt
repayment.
We successfully implemented an aggressive collections program to recover delinquent dues.
Because of these actions, Michaywé was able to pay all
operating expenses, operate all amenities, reduce our
debt, invest in community improvements, and make a
$50,000 annual contribution to the Replacement Fund,
which is now at its highest level. Consequently, we are
now seeing a much improved and more stable real
estate market.
This all sounds “rosy,” but as I have stated many
times: “Last year we generated about $2.2 million in
revenues (and that's a lot of money), but when we finished paying our expenses, making our debt payments, making the required contribution to the Repair
Fund, and spending on necessary capital expenditures,
we only had about $11,000 left over at the end of the
year.” Why? Inflation is running as fast as our cost
management ideas, and this does not include increases
in utilities, taxes, insurance, lot consolidation discounts, etc. You see it every day in your home and at
the supermarket. Michaywé is incurring these same
escalating costs.
For the first 9 months of 2014, things have run fairly
close to last year in some respects. Through September, we generated $1.8 million in revenue, which is
about $16,000 more than the same period in 2013. In
addition, it looks like the Pines Club will again have a
positive cash flow and provide a nominal cash return
to MOA. Debt payments were made with no new
bank borrowing. Unpaid member dues are about the
same.
The major problem we face is that revenue increased
by $16,000, but expenses grew by about $55,000. If
nothing changes during the rest of 2014, we will end
the year with about $40,000 less cash than in 2013. We
started the year with a checkbook balance of $91,000,
and we would end with less than $50,000. That is not a
lot of “cushion” for an operation with a $2.2 million
dollar annual cash flow. Where did this $55,000 of additional costs come from? Some of it came from additional lot consolidation discounts (a program that began in 2005, has cost us more than $400,000, and is still
growing.) But most of the increased costs were from
the net amount of inflation and other cost increases
that we were not able to offset with additional expense
reduction ideas.
The last four years were more difficult
than I had ever expected and a special
thank you goes to our staff, volunteers,
and members for all of your time and
support.
Where Are We Going
In 2015, I expect continued cost increases due to inflation, and even more lost revenue from additional lot
consolidations, but we will have fewer “levers to pull.”
We are at the point of diminishing returns with uncollected dues. The Pines Club should continue to be
marginally positive in cash flow, but they are also
challenged with inflation and the recent insurance and
minimum wage increases.
We were successful in renegotiating rate reductions on
our short-term debt, but the mortgage refinance done
in 2009 has too many penalty clauses for early renegotiation, so we will need to keep our current loan for a
couple more years. Hopefully, we can successfully negotiate a much less expensive credit agreement at that
time. In addition, our volunteers - who have done everything from painting the clubhouse to planting flowers - are getting tired. Also, our ideas on costs reduction and restructuring are starting to decline, and as
your Treasurer, I have fewer “rabbits to pull out of my
hat."
The facts and clean audited financials speak for themselves. We made a lot of progress and hope that we
have met our primary objective by earning your trust,
confidence, and support. I will continue to be honest
with you - 2015 will be a challenging year. Primary
goals will be to continue to retire debt, continue to
make Michaywé an affordable and beautiful place to
live, and continue to protect and further enhance our
property values.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 14
Kurt Jacobs
Owner/Broker
989.858.3210
www.Alpine45.com
989.858.3210
Tisa
Appleton
989.614.0701
Todd
Chamberlain
989.370.7619
admin@Alpine45.com
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 15
High Trees Ct ~ $204,900
This wonderful 2570 Sq Ft 4 bedroom 2.5 bath home features a gorgeous kitchen
with hickory cabinetry & granite counter-tops and a walk-in pantry, quaint
breakfast area, separate dining area, large great room with large windows and a
slate surround wood fireplace, and main floor laundry.
A lovely 2-story entryway with open staircase to the second level featuring a lovely master suite with an unbelievable
master bathroom/closet, 3 additional bedrooms and another full bath. Full basement, 2 car attached garage, covered
front porch, large deck, nicely landscaped on a quiet Michaywe cul-de-sac.
Bluejay Cir ~ $ 127,900
4 bed, 2 bath with unique layout features a central great room with
lovely brick fireplace, a beautiful kitchen and a light & bright dining area, room for the whole
family. An additional open living area, a main floor laundry room, new central air system, natural
gas, a hot tub, and updates including 150 amp service , smart thermostat-control right from your
phone, updated electrical outlets/plugs/switches, high-end interior and exterior light fixtures. In
move-in ready condition all nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with an adjacent corner lot property
also for sale.
Sugarhill Cir ~ $ 117,000
Second home OR full time residence, this home is in move-in
condition. 3 bedroom and 2 bath home in a fantastic neighborhood. Fireplace and formal dining
room. Natural gas available- furnace can be converted. Large deck off the back. Attached 2-car
garage with a huge attached work area off the back of the garage that can be used as a/mancave/get away from the kids area. Peaceful front porch. All Michaywe amenities including
Restaurant , Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Deeded Access to Opal Lake Beach, X-Country Skiing,
and Tennis Courts. On top of all of this, 3 golf courses within 2 miles.
Cheyenne Cir ~ $133,000
This lovely ranch-style home offers an open main level that
features cathedral ceilings throughout, a large living room with a gas fireplace, beautiful formal
dining area, very spacious kitchen and a convenient main floor laundry. A large master suite as
well as a very spacious 2nd bedroom. The partially finished basement is great for storage and
kids' area. Backyard is ready for entertaining with a large deck and fire-pit. Well-maintained 2-car
garage with workbench area. Natural Gas & Cable. Conveniently located within Michaywe, less
than 10 minutes to I-75 or downtown Gaylord.
Opal Lake Rd ~ $98,000
Nicely updated chalet featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open and
bright living area with a fireplace equipped with a natural gas furnace insert, bright kitchen with
large peninsula counter tops, open dining area, mud room and more. Includes all major
appliances. Home offers a 2.5 attached garage, 190 sq ft storage shed and lots of decking. You
can walk to wonderful Opal Lake & moments from snow mobile trails. School bus pick-up out
front. ALL Michaywe amenities including Clubhouse, Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Opal Lake
Beach, X-Country Skiing, and Tennis Courts. Three golf courses within 2 miles.
PAGE 16
WHISPERING PINES
Edelweiss Garden Club Greens Sale
The Edelweiss Garden Club's 26th Annual Greens Sale
is under way. Selections include mixed evergreen
wreaths decorated with bows and pinecones in sizes
from 24" to 60"; 25 foot or 50 foot cedar garland, and 3
foot balsam candy canes. All items must be pre-ordered
and will be available for pick up at the Otsego County
Sportsplex on Saturday, November 22, between 11 am
and 3 pm.
Proceeds from the sale will be used for Gaylord beautification projects and local scholarships.
Please call Pearl Kabacinski at 989-350-8859 for more
information and to obtain an order form. Orders are
due no later than November 8.
Odds & Ends
Volunteers Needed
We are always looking for a helping hand for different
projects and tasks that must be done. Currently, we have
two positions of particular importance that must be
filled soon:


Arts & Crafts Fair Co-Chair(s) for 2015 - This important position needs someone who likes to jump in
with both feet! It can be one person or two people
working together to learn from the current committee chairs in 2015 so that you can take the reins in
2016. If you have an interest and would like to learn
more, please contact the MOA Office.
Whispering Pines - We are looking for a publisher.
Carolyn Smith has published this newsletter for
many years and has done a fantastic job! Now we
are searching for someone to work with Carolyn in
2015, and then become the publisher in 2016. If you
have an interest and would like to learn more, please
contact the MOA Office.
Thank You!
Anonymous donors recently contributed enough funds
for us to complete a couple of facilities projects that
would not have happened this year without their generous assistance. Thank you for your contributions!
Congratulations
In October 2014, the MOA Board of Directors made
some changes. Mr. Glen Roberts has been named the
new Board President and will serve in this capacity until
June 2015. Joining Glen on the executive team is Ms. Sally Hall, who has been elected as Board Secretary.
Also in October, the Board of Directors unanimously
appointed long-time Michaywé property owner, Dick
Fitton to the Board for the remainder of a term ending in
June 2015.
Thank you all for your service to the Michaywé community!
Opal Lake Park Rental Changes
Are you looking for a spectacular setting to host your
family reunion? Do you need a special spot for a birthday party? Have you considered renting Opal Lake
Park? In 2015, there will be a couple of new rental options to choose from. For more information, check out
our website at www.michaywe.com or call the MOA
Office at 989-939-8919.
WHISPERING PINES
Adams Carpet and Window Cleaning
Servicing the Greater Gaylord Area since 1977
Our services include:
*Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning
*Window Cleaning
*Furnace/Air Duct Cleaning
10% off Window Cleaning
*cannot be combined with other offers
-For additional discounts, ask us about our customer referral program-
Contact us today for a free estimate!
Office: 989-732-3355
facebook.com/adamscarpetcleaning
www.adamscarpetcleaning.net
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
WHISPERING PINES
Mason Reviews Golf Season Events
Special Greetings to our Michaywé Community:
It was a busy golf season at the Michaywé Pines Golf
Course in spite of some significant weather challenges.
The golf course was in excellent condition all season
and customers from all over the country enjoyed the
nicest greens in Northern Michigan thanks to Jim Olli
and his crew.
Our community shared in a number of fun and rewarding events throughout the summer highlighted by our
“Michaywé Pines for Research” fundraiser which raised
$11,410 this summer and $62,196 over the past six years
for cancer research and treatments. Thanks to so many
who participate in this special event. Other great events
included our Ladies and Men's Member Guests, Match
Play Tournament, Michaywé Challenge Cup, Men vs.
Ladies, Drinks and Links and Club Championship, just
to name a few. Special congratulations to Paulie McCoy
and Tom Kraut our Match Play Champions and Judi
Stutzman and Joe Knight our Club Champions. Junior
golfers were showcased at our GAJUGA event on
Wednesday August 13th.
Thanks for a great 2014 golf season. As we plan and
prepare for the 2015 season, I can be reached during the
winter by calling the pro shop at 989-939-8911 or emailing golf@michaywe.com. Have a happy and healthy
winter season!
Judy Mason
Director of Golf
Michaywé Pines Course
Gaylord Golf Mecca
Links for additional information:
www.michaywe.com
www.gaylordgolfmecca.com
www.gaylordjuniorgolf.com
A Newcomer’s View of “Pines for Research”
Written by Dick Fitton
Fortunately my wife Kathy and I were able to retire fulltime in Michaywé beginning in May of this year. In
past years we were unable to participate in the Pines for
Research event, but this year we did not want to miss
this wonderful benefit for cancer research and treatment.
The two day event began with the exciting "Silent Auction"---we were so impressed with the turnout of participants for the bidding, but also impressed with the
number and quality of items to be bid on. The evening
was fun and relaxed and a wonderful opportunity to
mingle with many others from our Michaywé community (still wish I had won the Gordie Howe autographed
jersey). The food and drinks were exceptional as Mark
and Lorna Miller did a first class job with their food offerings.
Thursday began with a Cancer Walk on our beautiful
Pines Golf Course at 7:30 am---it was such a wonderful,
crisp and clear morning for a walk. I would encourage
you who have not done this to consider this a “must”
for next year. If you walk the entire course it is about a
five miles, but I can tell you it is a special time to reflect
and remember while on the course as all of us have
been impacted by cancer with family or friends. I guar-
antee you will feel good after the walk which will get
you ready for the pancake breakfast and that really hit
the spot----I’m told we had the most walkers ever this
year.
Later on Thursday Kathy and I played in the golf scramble which was a lot of fun. I was very impressed with
the numbers who participated and once again Mark and
Lorna outdid themselves with a very nice lunch before
the award ceremony.
Judy Mason and her staff work tirelessly before and
during the event. Jim Olli and his grounds crew have
made Michaywé Pines one of the premier golf courses
in Northern Michigan. The efforts and love from everyone who participated either by contributing or just by
attending is much appreciated---the event is one of the
highlights of our busy year at Michaywé and it is First
Class!
Mark it on your calendar for 2015 as I assure you it is an
event that you will be happy you were a part of.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 19
Karen Jenks -Buhl
Specializing in
Michaywé
properties for over
30 years
The only real estate company with two offices in Gaylord to serve you
and one located right in the Michaywé clubhouse
Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors has consistently led the
way with more participation in listings and sold properties
than any other real estate company by at least three times!
This is just a sampling of “Solds” in 2014 and current listings. For a complete list please visit our
on site office at Michaywé, 1535 Opal Lake Road,
call 989-370-2880
or email mrsbear46@hotmail.com
Sold by our company
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
MLS
290305
287196
281901
289963
291007
284087
280813
286840
290934
289106
7836 Sandpiper
6620 Pebble Beach
7507 Sandpiper
6586 Blue Spruce
921 Timber Valley
1295 Michaywé Drive
6947 Steep Hollow
6371 Golden Elk
6799 Colonial Court
6604 Woodcock
For Sale
MLS 290076
MLS 290296
MLS 291005
MLS 289592
MLS 290220
MLS 292892
MLS 290490
MLS 287445
MLS 291248
MLS 290813
271 Michaywé Drive
1699 Mockingbird
850 Snowmoon Court
816 Porcupine Path
6722 Pebble Beach
876 Michaywé Drive
5930 Bent Tree
6296 Wolverine
1785 Lakewood
1650 Saw Grass
Why list with the rest when you can have the best!
PAGE 20
WHISPERING PINES
Arts and Crafts Fair Hosted 2,300 Visitors
Written by Dawn Hill
Thank you to all those who volunteered, shopped, promoted, or otherwise supported the 2014 Arts & Crafts
Fair! We had two delightful sunshine-filled days to
show off our beautiful Michaywé grounds to 2,300 visitors who patronized our 90 vendors. More than half of
those vendors were new exhibitors to the Fair. We
raised over $900 for the Gaylord VFW Building Fund
through generous donations by made 70% of our vendors. Please view a video that was created specifically
from this year’s fair. Type this address into your internet browser and enjoy:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPoFdpcidK0
You should all be proud of how our Michaywé community is viewed by outsiders.
Most importantly, you should know that without the
help of some 100 volunteers this event would not take
place. If you haven’t participated in the past, we’d love
to have you join us as a volunteer for next year’s fair
scheduled for August 7th and 8th. Not only are we looking for volunteers the day of the fair, but we need committee members who can provide input and leadership
during the planning stages. We need to fill a secretary
position, an entertainment position, and a co-chair position. As co-chair, you will get invaluable experience by
assisting those in charge during 2015. Please call Caryl
Irrer (989-493-3805) or Dawn Hill (586-243-7319) if you
Above: Booths and displays circled the pond in
front of the clubhouse
Right: The maple syrup
vendor was kept very busy
with customers
are interested. We would love to meet with you and
discuss our needs. Know that you can count on substantial committee support for this well-oiled machine
that we call the Arts & Crafts Fair!
Monies raised from the fair are allocated to extra items
and activities as approved by the committee chairpersons. This year we are able to purchase items needed by
the Jack Pine Grill, Inn the Woods, and around the clubhouse and Opal Lake Park. We are also supporting
technical upgrades to improve our Wi-Fi connectivity at
the clubhouse.
We have made it our mission that each of our exhibitors
and guests would return year after year to participate in
one of Northern Michigan’s premiere Art Fairs!
We’d love to have you join us!
WHISPERING PINES
1802 Mockingbird Ln.
PAGE 21
1664 Lakewood
944 Snowmoon
(989) 732-9555 • www.realestategaylordmi.com
715 S. Wisconsin Ave • Gaylord, MI 49735 • Fax: (989) 732-5751
Using the Right Realtor makes ALL the difference!
Pat & Brian Goebel are ready to meet all your
Real Estate needs!
Call Pat: 989.350.8100 or Brian: 989.350.1708
PatLynchGoebel.BHHSMichiganRealEstate.com
BrianGoebel.BHHSMichiganRealEstate.com
6740 Pheasant Run
604 Michaywe Drive
661 Porcupine Path
6237 Foothills
1272 Downhill Run
411 Greenside
7560 Pheasant Run
152 Michaywe Drive
1757 Lakewood
© 2014 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices sy mbol are registered service
® Equal Housing Opportunity .
marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 22
Gaylord Area Council for the Arts Events
NOVEMBER
Thurs. Nov. 6-Tues. Jan. 3
Tues. Nov. 11 & Wed. Nov. 12
Fri. Nov. 14
Sat. Nov. 15
Winter Wonders Show and Sale at the Art Center
Making Wooden Book Covers with Artist Carlene Lagrou at the Art Center, 10 am – 3 pm
United Way “Power of the Purse”, Treetops Resort, 7pm
Winter Wonders Reception, Art Center, 5 - 7 pm
DECEMBER
Mon. Dec.1-Sat. Jan. 3
Sat. Dec. 13
Winter Wonders continued, Art Center
Christmas Concert, Gornick Auditorium, 7:30 pm
JANUARY, 2015
Wed. Jan. 7-Sat. Jan. 31
Sat. Jan. 10
Thurs. Jan. 22 & Fri. Jan. 23
GACA Students Exhibit, Art Center
GACA Student Exhibit Reception, Art Center, 5 - 7 pm
Watercolor Workshop, Carlene Lagrou, Art Center, 11 am - 3 pm
FEBRUARY
Wed. Feb. 4-Sat. Feb. 28
Wed. Feb. 4
Sat. Feb. 7
Thurs. Feb. 20 & Fri. Feb. 21
Black and White with a Bit of Red Exhibit, Art Center
Open Mic Night, “Seams Like New”, 7 pm
Black and White with a Bit of Red Reception, Art Center, 5 - 7 pm
Watercolor workshop, Carlene Lagrou, Art Center, 11 am – 3 pm
MARCH
Wed. Mar. 4- Sat. May 2
Sat. Mar. 7
Thurs. Mar. 20 & Fri. Mar. 21
Juried Photography Art Exhibit, Art Center
Juried Photography Reception, Art Center, 5 - 7 pm
Watercolor Workshop, Carlene Lagrou, Art Center, 11 am - 3 pm
SPRING CONCERT SERIES
Sat. Mar. 29
Sun. Apr. 19
Sun. May 2
Sun. May 17
Gaylord Community Orchestra, Gornick Auditorium, 7:30 pm
Jake Allen Concert, New Life Church, 3 pm
Gaylord Youth Orchestra, St. Mary Cathedral, 3 pm
Michigan Opera Theatre Children’s Chorus, Gornick Auditorium, 3 pm
Artful Afternoons every Wed. starting in January at 1:00 - 2:30 pm at the Art Center, DVD series presentation of the master
artists. It’s free along with coffee, cookies and camaraderie.
Storytellers meet the 4th Friday of the month at the Art Center, 6 pm
For more information contact the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts at 989-732-3242 or visit www.gaylordarts.org.
WHISPERING PINES
dale j. smith
Associate Broker
CRS, RAM, ABR
989-732-2477 ~ 800-822-2350
1349 S. Otsego Ave, Gaylord
PAGE 23
Wendie Forman
Associate Broker
GRI, Property Manager
Mike Perdue
Realtor Associate
Sales Manager
Ryan Wojan
Realtor Associate
For All Of Your Real Estate Needs
www.SmithRealtyGaylord.com
Beautiful Michaywé Homes For Sale
Always wanted a new home - did not want
the challenge of building? 3 bedrooms, 2
baths, great room, gourmet kitchen, master
suite with walk-in closet. Perfect stone fireplace and central air conditioning. Walkout
lower level features roughed plumbing,
egress windo ws, fully insulated and waiting
for your design completion. Spacious 2,000
sq.ft. main floor offers the option of 4,000
sq.ft of living space when the lower level is
completed. $355,000 MLS #293399
Customized Elegance throughout, quality
built sitting atop the beautiful Lakes Golf
Course with full view across Michaywé
Lake! 4-season sun room, and large living
area with vaulted ceilings finished in White
Ash. Gourmet kitchen featuring Viking
appliances, Grabil custom cabinets, & Brazilian Cherry floors. Master Suite with all
the amenities, finished lower level, amazing
landscaping, 3.5 car garage and many more
extras to enjoy. $519,000 MLS #290593
Spectacular setting on the Pines Golf
Course. 3 Br, 3 Ba home with gorgeous
stone fireplace, cathedral ceilings and
large glass walls looking over the fairways. Relax and enjoy the 10 person hot
tub with family and guests in the spacious
entertaining area, or catch some rays off
the wrap around deck out back. Move-in
ready with 4 seasons of fun and activity
waiting to be enjoyed by the next owner.
$249,900 MLS #291372
TRIPLE LOT SALE!
Three nicely wooded lots for one attractively low price! Located on Pheasant Run,
this is a perfect build site with easy access
from Old State Road. Call Today! For
$5,000, this trio won’t last long!
#292243
MLS
Lot 82, Snowmoon Court. Very wooded
site secluded on a cul-de-sac, ideal for your
new home. Fabulous Michaywé amenities
included.
Call T oday!
$1,800
MLS #292266
THIS TRULY IS ONE OF A KIND - BELIEVE IT...YOU WILL BE S URPRIS ED AT:
185 acres of absolutely great hunting as well as privacy with blinds and plantings all on One half
mile of Little Bass Lake frontage. The landscaped site includes pond, waterfalls AND playable
Golf Green & Fairway. 4,100Sq.Ft. main home, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace, great room with
full wet bar, 4BRs, 4.5BAs, perfect master suite and a kitchen that will thrill the most discerning
cook. Attached heated & finished garage features work shop plus bonus room above. Also includes
guest home and bunk house. $1,400,000 MLS #292888
Residential, Lakefront, Resort Property, Acreage, Commercial, Industrial, Rentals,
Lease Options and Rental Management.
PAGE 24
WHISPERING PINES
Opal Lake Park Report
This was again a busy summer at Opal Lake Park despite the cooler and rainier than normal weather.
The season started in late May when 38 volunteers
pitched in over the course of 2 days to help with the annual spring clean-up. Many hands made short work of
the job. As usual, there was much camaraderie while
working and during lunch. Watch for announcements
in the spring for next year’s clean-up. It may sound like
work but it is fun catching up with friends and neighbors after the long winter.
Four potluck picnics were hosted by volunteers this
summer. Despite some questionable weather, attendance remained strong. There is talk of getting a
Michaywé cookbook started to share the recipes for the
great dishes that were brought. Watch for dates next
summer, typically the second Wednesday of the month,
June through September.
A play structure was relocated by volunteers from the
main clubhouse to the shady side of the Park. This provides an opportunity for the little ones to play out of the
sun and enables parents to keep a watchful eye on the
kids while playing volleyball or horseshoes. Enjoy!
Written by Sally Hall
Several groups used the Lake House for various social
activities. These included Mah-Jongg on Thursday
mornings, duplicate bridge on Friday afternoons and
euchre/pinochle on Tuesday evenings. These are great
social activities that have now moved to the clubhouse
for the winter. Check the monthly calendar for details.
There were about 20 rentals of Opal Lake House during
the summer. Check with the MOA Office if you are interested in a rental next summer.
Right:
some of the
new plantings along
the beach at
Opal Lake
Park
Another successful Chili Cook-Off occurred on Sunday,
August 24. This is one of the favorite end-of-summer
activities. More than 135 people attended the event despite cool temperatures and overcast skies. It isn’t too
soon to consider submitting a pot of chili for next year!
This is your notice to save the date for the 2015 Chili
Cook-Off: Sunday, August 23.
Left l to r:
Barb Christie,
Lisa Moore,
George del
Grosso, Brent
Hayduk and
Fred Layman,
5 of this year’s
“chiliologists”
at this year’s
Chili Cook-Off
The Michaywé RC club provided entertainment after
the Chili Cook-Off by holding a regatta on Opal Lake.
The rough waters were a challenge to the drivers but
added to the entertainment value for the on-lookers.
The shoreline and deck are great areas to watch future
races.
Thanks to a grant through the Otsego County Soil Conservation District from the Otsego Wildlife Legacy Society (OWLS), 475 native plants were added to the shoreline at Opal Lake Park. Thirty volunteers ‘dug in’ to
plant the shoreline in one afternoon. These native
plants require little to no maintenance and will spread
to beautify the entire beach area. They will attract beneficial insects such butterflies, small birds (especially
hummingbirds), and aid in soil retention to keep Opal
Lake one of the cleanest lakes in the state. Please stay
out of the staked areas until the plants have had a
chance to become well established, then sit back and
enjoy!
Right: Nancy Hawald samples some of
her own chili and
corn bread
WHISPERING PINES
Kurt Jacobs
Owner/Broker
989.858.3210
www.Alpine45.com
989.858.3210
PAGE 25
Tisa
Appleton
989.614.0701
Todd
Chamberlain
989.370.7619
admin@Alpine45.com
Sugarhill Cir ~ $ 117,000
Second home OR full time residence, this home is in move-in
condition. 3 bedroom and 2 bath home in a fantastic neighborhood. Fireplace and formal dining
room. Natural gas available- furnace can be converted. Large deck off the back. Attached 2-car
garage with a huge attached work area off the back of the garage that can be used as a/mancave/get away from the kids area. Peaceful front porch. All Michaywe amenities including
Restaurant , Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Deeded Access to Opal Lake Beach, X-Country Skiing,
and Tennis Courts. On top of all of this, 3 golf courses within 2 miles.
Cheyenne Cir ~ $133,000
This lovely ranch-style home offers an open main level that
features cathedral ceilings throughout, a large living room with a gas fireplace, beautiful formal
dining area, very spacious kitchen and a convenient main floor laundry. A large master suite as
well as a very spacious 2nd bedroom. The partially finished basement is great for storage and
kids' area. Backyard is ready for entertaining with a large deck and fire-pit. Well-maintained 2-car
garage with workbench area. Natural Gas & Cable. Conveniently located within Michaywe, less
than 10 minutes to I-75 or downtown Gaylord.
Opal Lake Rd ~ $98,000
Nicely updated chalet featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open and
bright living area with a fireplace equipped with a natural gas furnace insert, bright kitchen with
large peninsula counter tops, open dining area, mud room and more. Includes all major
appliances. Home offers a 2.5 attached garage, 190 sq ft storage shed and lots of decking. You
can walk to wonderful Opal Lake & moments from snow mobile trails. School bus pick-up out
front. ALL Michaywe amenities including Clubhouse, Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Opal Lake
Beach, X-Country Skiing, and Tennis Courts. Three golf courses within 2 miles.
PAGE 26
WHISPERING PINES
Is Your Portfolio Truly Diversified?
Submitted by Phil Hofweber
Life is full of ups and downs — and the financial
markets are no different. As an investor, you’re no
doubt happy to see the “ups” — but the “downs”
can seem like a real downer. Isn’t there any way to
help smooth out the volatility in your investment
portfolio?
First of all, to cope with volatility, it’s helpful to
know what causes it — and there can be many
causes. Computers that make trades in milliseconds, based on mathematical models, are sometimes blamed for intraday volatility, but large price
swings can also occur following the release of government economic reports, such as those dealing
with unemployment and housing starts. Global
events, such as the European economic malaise,
can also send the financial markets into a tizzy.
By being aware of the impact of these events, you
can see that the workings of the markets — especially their volatility — may not be as mysterious
as you thought. Still, while knowing the causes of
volatility can help you prepare for market swings,
it won’t blunt their impact on your portfolio. To do
that, you need to create a diversified mix of investments because your portfolio can be more susceptible to negative price movements if you only own
one type of asset.
To illustrate: If you owned mostly bonds, and interest rates rose sharply, the value of your bonds
would likely drop, and your portfolio could take a
big hit. But if you owned stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) and
other investment vehicles, the rise in interest rates
would probably affect your portfolio less significantly.
Unfortunately, many investors think that if they
own a few stocks and a bond, they’re diversified.
But you can actually extend your diversification
through many levels — and you should. For the
equity portion of your portfolio, try to own stocks
representing many market sectors and industries.
Also, consider international stocks. And rather
than just owning U.S. Treasury bonds, consider
corporate bonds and municipal bonds, and diversify your fixed-income holdings further by purchasing short-term, intermediate-term and long-term
bonds. Work with your financial advisor to determine the mix of asset classes and investments that
are appropriate for your financial goals and objectives.
How you ultimately diversify your portfolio depends on your risk tolerance, time horizon and
long-term goals — there’s no one “correct” asset
mix for everyone. And over time, your diversification needs may change. To cite one example, as
you enter your retirement years, you may need to
increase your percentage of income-producing investments while possibly reducing the amount of
growth investments you own. These growthoriented investments tend to be more volatile, and
you may want less volatility during your retirement. However, even during retirement, you will
need to own a certain percentage of growth investments to provide you with the growth potential
you’ll need to stay ahead of inflation.
Keep in mind that diversification can’t guarantee a
profit or protect against loss. Nonetheless, building
a diversified portfolio may help take some of the
volatility out of investing — so look for diversification opportunities whenever possible.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local
Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Phil Hofweber is a Financial Advisor
with Edward Jones, 100 W. Main
Street, Gaylord, 989-731-1851 or
email at
phil.hofweber@edwardjones.com
Edward Jones operates as an insurance producer in California, New
Mexico, and Massachusetts through
the following subsidiaries, respectively: Edward Jones Insurance Agency
of California, L.L.C., Edward Jones
Insurance Agency of New Mexico,
L.L.C., and Edward Jones Insurance
Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Edward Jones and its financial advisors do not provide tax and legal
advice. You should consult with a
qualified tax or legal professional for
advice on your specific situation.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 27
PAGE 28
WHISPERING PINES
Michaywé RC Club Gets Underway
Did you know that we now have an RC club here in
Michaywé? It was organized this year by Gary Merritt
and has 14 members….so far. The club will focus on
radio-controlled model planes, boats and cars. These
models make a wonderful outdoor activity that can be
enjoyed by all. There are many different types of RC
boats such electric boats, gas boats, tug boats, sail boats
and even submarines! Some RC speed boats are meant
for serious RC enthusiasts and can go up to 65+ mph!
Flying RC aircraft as a hobby has been growing worldwide with the advent of more efficient motors (electric,
miniature internal combustion or jet engines), lighter
and more powerful batteries and less expensive radio
systems. RC cars and planes can be electric, nitro methane or gas powered, and come in a dazzling variety of
models from kits to “ready to run” or “ready to fly”.
The club held a boat regatta on August 8 and another
one on August 24 after the Chili Cook-Off at Opal Lake
Park. They plan to have three or four each summer.
The club requires a specific 17 inch model boat, the “Pro
Boat Impulse 17 Deep V”, to compete in the boat races.
“These boats cost about $200 so they are a reasonable
price for many members,” said Gary.
Above and right: Impulse 17 boats show their speed
Below l to r: John Stutzman, Jim Irrer, Wally McCoy, Bob Hawthorne, Joe Colliton, Tom Kraut,
Gary Merritt, and Bob Johnson and his grandson, Aden Johnson , are proud of their RC speed
boats
Anyone can become a member and kids are welcome.
The club will be a great place to have fun and learn
about these models in a safe environment. “It’s open to
anyone who wants to have fun. It is a hobby to share
one’s experience and we all learn together. Flying an
RC plane takes plenty of practice and it is important to
learn from someone with more knowledge and experience,” said Gary.
The club has been given permission by the MOA Board
of Directors to use the old ski hill location as a site for
club activities. “Site preparation for take-off and landing of RC planes will be an important first step for the
club,” explained Gary. “We will be having several organization meetings this winter and will be looking for
help to prepare the flying field for use in the spring,” he
added.
If you are thinking about taking up RC-modeling as a
new activity, please contact Gary Merritt at 989-3905262 for more information and assistance in getting
started.
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 29
Making a World of Difference with Habitat for Humanity
Written by Candy Gardner
“Vuelven nuestros hijos a casa” or “Bringing Our Children Back Home” is the theme of Habitat for Humanity’s
projects in Chile. Based upon the recommendations of
doctors and social workers, Habitat chooses the families
that will best be served by their program.
Dick and I left for South America on May 13. After a 3day stop in Cuzco, Peru, in order to visit Machu Picchu,
we made our way to Santiago, Chile to meet up with the
nine other members of our team. Our leader divided this
group into two smaller ones and arranged for spouses to
be on separate teams. So my group consisted of three
talented men, three hard-working women, our interpreter (who did as much work as the others), a master carpenter and a master builder.
The family we were working for consists of a mother,
Lorena, and Sofia, her 9-year-old daughter, who suffers
from chronic bronchitis, migraines and goiters. They
were sleeping in a damp, moldy 10’ x 20’ building that
had no running water. This building was at the front of
the lot and the main house, where the grandmother and
aunt live, is at the back of the lot. I say “was” because the
sleeping quarter could not be saved. It was best to tear it
down and start anew. It was also decided to double the
size of the building to 20’ x 20’, which would give this
small family two bedrooms, a bathroom (no hot water), a
kitchen, and a small dining area / living room. So our
team razed the building, pulling nails and saving wood
wherever possible; mixed enough cement to lay down a
6” new floor and a 2” covering over the old floor; built
the walls and put them up; built 11 trusses for the roof
using the salvaged lumber from the original building (the
men were so inspired, they built one extra); insulated the
walls with Styrofoam (there is no heating system in the
house); put up the wallboard; installed the windows and
door; and painted the front of the house bright yellow
(my specialty, as my jeans and shoes attest). That is quite
an accomplishment for only 9 days of work. If we could
have stayed longer, all of us would have, because we
were so near to seeing the project complete. When Dick
and I stopped by on the morning we left, the mother Lorena was painting the side of the house.
I have been in contact with my team members about the
purchase of a tankless hot water heater for their home, a
new trundle bed and nightstand for the little girl Sofia,
and a new bed and nightstand for the mother. When
their bedroom building was razed, the team put the family’s meager furnishings on the front porch. The mother
and daughter had been sharing a bed whose mattress
and box spring are now exposed to the elements. So it
would be far healthier for Sofia to have a brand new bed
that is free of allergens. And far more comfortable to
wash up each day with warm water instead of cold.
We received word that on August 14 the beds, mattresses, sheets, comforters and nightstands were delivered to
our little family. The Habitat coordinator wrote that Sofia’s teacher is immensely pleased with her academic progress and that Sofia’s headaches have diminished a great
deal. All due, no doubt, to living in a mold-free home for
the past 3 months and, now, sleeping in clean, healthy
bedding. The tankless hot water heater should be installed by now.
Dick’s group worked on building a new bedroom for a
little girl who has rheumatoid arthritis. It is predicted
that she will be in a wheelchair fairly soon, so his team
also had to enlarge a very narrow hallway leading to the
bedroom and raze a very ugly bathroom, which the next
Habitat team will rebuild.
In both cases, the families receiving help are expected to
participate somehow in the build. So the mothers prepared our morning break (tea and cookies), our lunch
(usually a hearty soup, fruit, and juice), and an afternoon
break. Meals were prepared in a kitchen that was roughly 4’ x 4’; it contained a small stove and a small sink,
while the refrigerator was in the dining room.
The Habitat coordinators also arrange cultural excursions
while in the host country. So our team visited a winery
in the area (Chile is famous for its red wines) and Valparaiso, a port on
the Pacific in
northwestern
Chile. Therefore,
it is not a matter
of all work and
no play. If anyone would like
more information
on joining a Habitat build (they are
world-wide, year
‘round), Dick and
I would be happy
to
help
(9398057). The experience is truly life
-changing.
Above: Habitat for Humanity worker and recipient, Sofia
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 30
Broadway on the Pines Course
(Continued from page 1)
Hole No. 4
Wally McCoy
“Jersey Boys”
Best Dancers
Hole No. 5
Andy Mowrey
“Phantom of the Opera”
Best Chandelier
Hole No. 6
Mike Valuet
“Zorba the Greek”
Best Baklava
Hole No. 7
Joe Colliton
“Les Misérables”
Best Flag
Hole No. 8
Gary Hill
“South Pacific”
Best Lay
Hole No.9
Jeff Parker
“Mary Poppins”
Best Adult Gummies
Following the golf course tour, a casual dinner was held on the Jack Pine Grille
patio. As a special treat, the cast of “Hello Dolly” provided a preview of its local
production.
Left: Jersey
Boys Gary
Merritt (l) and
Wally McCoy
Right: Jim
Irrer (l) and
Joe Colliton
man the barricades in Paris
Left: Andy Mowrey
wins Best Chandelier
Right: Tom Raynes
flanked by Hole No. 2
homeowners Lois
Hibbler and Bob
Stimmel
Look for the Drinks and
Links event on the 2015 pro
shop schedule—you won’t
want to miss it!
WHISPERING PINES
PAGE 31
More Photos from “Triple Play”
Above: Mark Hall
Left l to r: Jan Humbert,
Paulie McCoy, Carolyn
Study and Terri McCarbery
Above: Huntley Robinson
Left l to r: Todd Chwatun, Liz
Lixie, Dick Fitton and Terri
McCarbery
Michaywé Owners Association
1535 Opal Lake Road
Gaylord MI 49735
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Whispering Pines is a publication of the Michaywé Owners Association, focused only on social, recreational and member activities along with Michaywé business issues.
Thanks to Laurie Breen, Joe and Dianne Colliton, Jeanne Crenshaw, Dick Fitton, Dick and Candy Gardner, Sally Hall, Nancy Hawald, Dawn Hill, Liz Lixie, Judy Mason,
Gary Merritt, Nancy Raynes, Mark Smith, Karen Stimmel and Todd Chwatun and the MOA Office Staff for their assistance with this issue. Any errors herein are my own.
Comments, suggestions or requests for advertising assistance may be directed to Carolyn Smith, editor, at windknots@msn.com or 989-939-7030.