tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17798934072239027352024-02-19T09:22:01.899-08:00Promote MichiganProviding services in marketing, promotion, publicity, event planning, public & media relations, freelance writing. WWW.PROMOTEMICHIGAN.COMDianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-14412276938811681702015-07-09T14:58:00.000-07:002015-07-09T14:58:44.925-07:00A Day of Crafting Beer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH8Sy8htx0Yp6aXboxkvd_PeAxtPxiJBTrMwHYJqiVUpkmwdF4npNcEWd3Y2wwnHzwKtwSe4OoDEbL2U6q2dK3Usj_QBZKLkIjtBz6FXXSQ3kSOjYyr6oudtvGjgZOEbJckgV_hTCRyc/s1600/picBorealisBlondeLabels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH8Sy8htx0Yp6aXboxkvd_PeAxtPxiJBTrMwHYJqiVUpkmwdF4npNcEWd3Y2wwnHzwKtwSe4OoDEbL2U6q2dK3Usj_QBZKLkIjtBz6FXXSQ3kSOjYyr6oudtvGjgZOEbJckgV_hTCRyc/s640/picBorealisBlondeLabels.jpg" /></a></div>
<p><i><b>Back to my "try something new every month..."</b></i></p>
<p>One of the things on my 2015 “Bucket List” was to make beer at <a href="http://www.SaugatuckBrewing.com">Saugatuck Brewing Company</a>! Back in March and April, I had the opportunity to do just that—along with my daughter, Mollie; her friend, Kailey; the notable musician Delilah DeWylde and her friend Natalie Biddle. Our finished product: Borealis Blonde (named because I now am finally able to see the Northern Lights where I live and, well…I’m blonde!).</p>
<p>My experience with making Borealis Blonde is featured in the July, 2015 issue of <a href="http://womenslifestyle.com/">Women’s Lifestyle Magazine</a> and you can read the pretty formatted article there on pages 34-35 (along with some basic beer definitions, ingredient lists and additional sources). Or, you can click below and read the article here—along with photos from our days at the brewery. And, since July is <a>href="http://www.mibeer.com/">Michigan Craft Beer Month</a> it seems appropriate that this story be published this month. Cheers!</p>
<p>The craft beer scene is taking Michigan (and the country, for that matter) by storm. Currently, Michigan, the “Great Beer State,” is home to more than 155 breweries (and growing, monthly). It’s safe to say there are at least two dozen, if not more, breweries in various stages of planning at any given moment and there seems to be no end in sight.</p>
<p>Beer festivals are also on the rise in Michigan with four events held annually by the Michigan Brewers Guild, the official trade association for this thriving industry. Community festivals are also held in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Lansing, Ludington, Bridgman, Mackinaw City, Detroit, Charlevoix and countless other cities around the state.</p>
<p>Saugatuck Brewing Co.For those who would like to take their craft beer experience beyond the pub or the festival grounds, there is one place in Michigan that allows you to step in the shoes of the brewer. At Saugatuck Brewing Company, you have the opportunity to create your own brew; from selecting the recipe to creating a custom label and bottling a finished product, you’ll get the whole experience.</p>
<p>Saugatuck Brewing is one of the few “Brew on Premises” operations in the state, and for roughly $300, your group of up to six people can take part. This activity is ideal for corporate team building, wedding parties, birthday celebrations or any other gathering of friends. It’s a time to be creative, drink craft beer and have a great time socializing.</p>
<b>THE PROCESS</b>
<p>Once a brew date is selected, Dexter Gauntlett, the head brew-on-premise brewer, works diligently to help the group determine which style of beer they’d like to make. With more than 200 recipes to choose from, not to mention custom blends, the opportunities are endless. The experience, run by Gauntlett, takes about four hours on brew day, with another hour dedicated to labeling and bottling a few weeks later. The experience delivers personal instruction, all the equipment, and up to 72 22-ounce (750ml) bottles of your customized beer, fit with personalized labels if you choose to do so.</p>
<b>THE EXPERIENCE</b>
<p>In early March, I had the opportunity to cross “Brew Beer” off my 2015 bucket list. I and four other women ventured to Saugatuck Brewing Company. The group included myself, my daughter Mollie and her friend Kailey, my fellow beer-loving sidekick Delilah and her friend Natalie, who is a home-brewer. This power team of all women was geared up and ready for a day of brewing!</p>
<p>We arrived around 10 a.m. ready to make our slightly hopped blonde ale named “Borealis Blonde” after the northern lights that frequent the skies of Michigan.</p>
<p>The small 3.5-barrel system that Saugatuck uses for its public brewing program is the same that they used for their own operations when they opened in 2005. The program hosts six individual tanks for brewing, allowing Gauntlett to manage multiple groups simultaneously.</p>
<p>Our Borealis Blonde began with a recipe featuring pilsen malt, cara-pilsen dextrin, munich malt and three different types of hops: simcoe, cascade and motueka. Gauntlett had all the ingredients lined up and ready to go when we arrived.</p>
<p>The first step, or the mash process, involves adding about 18 pounds of hand-milled grain into the mash kettle. Over the next hour, the thick, hot cereal-like mixture warms and steams, dispelling a malty fragrance into the air of the pub as it is stirred every 10 to 15 minutes. There’s no question you’re in a brewery.</p>
<p>An hour or so into the process, and once the fermentable sugars are extracted into the mash, the grain is lifted out of the kettle and sparged, which rinses the remaining sugars out of the grain bed. What remains is a hefty supply of spent grain, which is bagged up and sent home with each of us for recipe creation (mine became a fruit and nut based granola).</p>
<p>The next step took about an hour and involves boiling the wort and adding hops at various intervals. These hop additions add bitterness and other floral citrusy flavors and aromas to the brew. “Without hops, the resulting beer would be very sweet and likely not very palatable,” said Gauntlett.</p>
<p>At the end of the boil, the wort is cooled, filtered and pumped into a fermenter. Here, the yeast is pitched into the fermenter and then stored in a temperature controlled room. Our work is done at this point until we return three weeks later to bottle our creation; the bottle process takes about an hour from affixing the custom labels to filling, capping and boxing the beer.</p>
<p>The take-home result, besides the unique, inspiring and educational experience, is enough beef for roughly a case per person (if you’ve got a group of five). Perfect for sharing with friends back home!</p>
<p>The “Brew on Premises” program at Saugatuck Brewing is offered by appointment seven days a week, year-round. For more information, visit www.SaugatuckBrewing.com or call (616) 990-8865 and ask for Dexter Gauntlett.</p>
<b>WHAT OUR GROUP HAD TO SAY</b>
<p>“This is such a unique experience. What I most enjoyed was how easy it was. You really do just have to follow the recipe. It’s like a day of baking with your friends, except you get the perks of great beer while you do it!” – Mollie Stampfler</p>
<p>“Bottling and labeling was probably my favorite part, and our beer turned out to be delicious. It was nice and light, citrusy, with just a tiny hint of bitterness —right up my alley! The label was beautiful and the beer was something we made together, which made it all the more sweet to sit back and enjoy our end product.” - Kailey Fisher</p>
<p>“Brewing at SBC is a great learning experience. It’s also a chance to catch up with old friends, as well as make new ones.” - Delilah DeWylde</p>
<i>Reprinted with permission from the July, 2015 issue of Women’s Lifestyle Magazine.
</i>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-70433506802230384652015-02-11T09:15:00.001-08:002015-02-11T09:15:41.673-08:00Valentine Distilling — Bringing Sexy Back! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-uAFDoRtox7lqBIlFhG5RduyL-MAfmO5C7l73YZETmvUfNKJi01jy9moctUJCrabLDpCgB5GrgqltsCKEACbfHNgCU7h_pp6baoBrR8qz1GAb66u4PmfZsyghpSr9BWYfW2a2EvOAek/s1600/valentine-0363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-uAFDoRtox7lqBIlFhG5RduyL-MAfmO5C7l73YZETmvUfNKJi01jy9moctUJCrabLDpCgB5GrgqltsCKEACbfHNgCU7h_pp6baoBrR8qz1GAb66u4PmfZsyghpSr9BWYfW2a2EvOAek/s400/valentine-0363.jpg" /></a></div>
When you’re born with the suave Italian name Rifino Valentine, you’re destined to do one of three things – rock the screen as a star in the adult entertainment industry, rule the neighborhood as a gangster or take on the beverage industry as an award-winning, hand-crafted distiller.
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It was option three that this Michigan-born-and-raised entrepreneur opted for in 2009 when he returned from an 11-year stint on Wall Street to launch <b><a href="http://www.valentinedistilling.com">Valentine Distilling Co</a></b>. Drawing inspiration from the 1920s-era, the Valentine Vodka brand exudes sex – complete with a pin-up girl dressed in a tight red corset and fishnet stockings, holding a dirty martini – as a salute to Detroit’s pre-prohibition history.
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But Valentine isn’t just a pretty face!
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Today, Rifino utilizes a world-class Christian Carl Still to craft his traditional vodka, an elderflower infusion called White Blossom, Liberator Gin and Woodward Ltd. Bourbon.
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The brand has accumulated a handful of prestigious awards over the past few years, most recently a 94-point ranking from Anthony Dias Blue, editor-in-chief of The Tasting Panel magazine – proudly placing higher than noted international brands like Belvedere, Ketel One, Grey Goose and Absolut. Liberator Gin was named 'Best American Gin' by the American Distilling Institute and Liberator Old Tom Gin was awarded 'World's Best Cask Gin' out of London.
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“Returning to Michigan to start this venture, my goal was to craft a product that competes with the elite imported brands,” Rifino says. “With this latest ranking from the most well-respected wine and spirits reviewer, it really is satisfying that we were able to do just that! Now, we can truly say that you’re not just buying local, you’re buying better!”
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Valentine products are currently found at more than 3000 retail stores, restaurants and bars throughout seven states, France, Belgium and Italy. For the full experience, be sure to visit the “speak-easy” style martini bar and production facility at 161 Vester Street in downtown Ferndale. Hours: Tues-Thurs, 4:30-11; Fri-Sat, 4:30-1, Sun 12-6.
Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-14208424484131552452015-02-11T08:38:00.000-08:002015-02-11T08:38:37.205-08:00SEX…L. Mawby's Pink Bubbles in a Bottle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGZYyht_BdfrHGL3Bqa2N4b-UKE9Wvn5n3bou1wQjTJ1GdFeGnobKcFVIRj-7ChHPeNmfpI9XnxynN1JsJgnsbasOIK1MyTBXmWKMKBHy-n-X1ZgKDaW8rdmc-LQPzXBACxGYuCIhmnc/s1600/Sex_web_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGZYyht_BdfrHGL3Bqa2N4b-UKE9Wvn5n3bou1wQjTJ1GdFeGnobKcFVIRj-7ChHPeNmfpI9XnxynN1JsJgnsbasOIK1MyTBXmWKMKBHy-n-X1ZgKDaW8rdmc-LQPzXBACxGYuCIhmnc/s400/Sex_web_large.jpg" /></a></div>
Isn’t it wonderful to know that you can waltz into the <a href="http://www.LMawby.com">L. Mawby </a>tasting room in Suttons Bay, or any number of restaurants, bars or retail shops around the state of Michigan, and purchase SEX…legally?
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This brut rose sparkling wine has been hand-crafted on the Leelanau Peninsula in northwest Michigan under the M.Lawrence Brand since 2002. Its vibrant salmon hues and soft, fruity flavor give way to tiny bubbles which dance on your tongue in a delicious and excited fashion. While SEX meets French standards for its brut designation, it is not bone dry as one might expect. In fact, it’s quite mouth-watering.
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SEX is a “provocative blend of pinot noir and chardonnay grapes that are hand-picked and carefully whole-cluster pressed. The juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks, then blended with reserve wines and fermented a second time in a closed tank [the cuve close method]. The wine is then filtered, dosaged, and bottled.”
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The vibrant personality behind the L. Mawby and M.Lawrence brands is none other than Larry Mawby – who has been mastering his craft of winemaking since his first crush in the fall of 1978. Since that time, he’s been regarded as one of the masters of his industry – making wines not only for his own small-lot brands (with an annual production of less than 16,000 cases) but also for other Michigan wineries.
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Each year, about 3500 cases of the award-winning SEX are produced at the hands of assistant winemaker Michael Laing – who was officially introduced to the agricultural and winemaking industries in 2005, when his family began selling grapes from Leelanau County to Mawby.
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By 2007, he was working at the winery. A trip the following year to New Zealand gave Laing the opportunity to work in a custom winemaking facility – making Pinot Noir. A new career tract in mind, he returned to Michigan and began working beside Larry, concentrating on the M.Lawrence brand – including SEX.
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In addition to his work with Mawby, Laing also owns a brand of sparkling and table wines with his brother, Peter, called Big Little Wines (est. 2011).
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For some, SEX may be considered a novelty wine. Yet, for true Mawby lovers, it is a conversation starter (or perhaps a clever pick up line) like no other. “Let me buy a round of SEX for the house” or “I’m having SEX at the bar tonight” are among the common phrases uttered with pride by Mawby’s more vocal and confident fans. Even visitors to the tasting room often walk through the front door clamoring “I hear Mawby has the best SEX around” and “We were sent here for SEX.”
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Now, you might wonder how an alcoholic beverage with the name of SEX could make it through the strict licensing and labeling laws that the federal government enforces. Even Mawby himself wonder how this came to be, but only for a moment. Now, he just basks in the glory that is SEX.
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Now that we’ve whet your appetite for SEX, you’ll need to know where you can find it – with regularity, of course. A visit to LMawby.com will provide a list of retail outlets and restaurants around Michigan that serve SEX. Currently, SEX is available at nearly 40 locations in the greater Grand Rapids area.
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“We’re very glad that you are able to have SEX whenever you want it,” Mawby says. We’ve been working hard for several years to bring that about.”
Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-88028618528000597822015-02-10T16:49:00.001-08:002015-02-10T16:49:47.426-08:00Sexy Foods to Put You in the Mood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq9nuljka5Vk8iAXGXgNzrmKIE64ggqMKv-24qp16XSpWafyaUdyeyNHhXApxPQl1iZZjalN1D93drqOlktHSVmiO6el_ISfcUJRMfU6NcUF1yepaJsY1hgdSTt4tupAVj2Q-x5iiD3Y/s1600/Fotolia_49228617_XS-420x280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq9nuljka5Vk8iAXGXgNzrmKIE64ggqMKv-24qp16XSpWafyaUdyeyNHhXApxPQl1iZZjalN1D93drqOlktHSVmiO6el_ISfcUJRMfU6NcUF1yepaJsY1hgdSTt4tupAVj2Q-x5iiD3Y/s400/Fotolia_49228617_XS-420x280.jpg" /></a></div> Throughout history, food has served as one of the great sexual indulgences. Aphrodisiacs – named after the Greek Goddess of sexual love and beauty, Aphrodite – are substances that lead to the awakening of internal desires. In the form of smells, drinks and foods, aphrodisiacs trigger chemical reactions in the brain, which in turn lead to the stimulation of the sexual organs of both men and women and intensify one’s urge to engage in pleasurable physical activities.
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Now, some foods are simply sweet or hot and spicy, delivering an overwhelming sensation of flavors, textures and aromas which can create the most arousing effects. While others have proven nutritional effects which can stimulate or recharge the body, and are thus believed to enhance the physical attributes of love, lust and sex.
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Cleopatra tantalized Mark Anthony and Emperor Julius Caesar with aphrodisiac scents and “potions” made with cinnamon, cardamom and basil that were said to drive her male suitors wild. Figs were also said to be her favorite delicacy.
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The food of choice for Catherine the Great of Russia was caviar and she is widely quoted as once saying "Bring me some caviar, and tonight at supper, send me the best built of my officers." In 19th-century France, bridegrooms were served three courses of asparagus at their prenuptial dinner, to aid in wedding evening bliss.
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In more modern times, Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger carried on an erotic love affair in the 1986 movie 9 ½ Weeks – with the most remembered scene taking place in front of an open refrigerator. Throughout the short three-minute scene, her eyes are closed as he feeds her countless items that drip out of her mouth and drizzle down her chin, her tongue hungry for more.
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In the 2008 movie Sex and the City, an always-sexually-charged Samantha Jones (Kim Cattrall), tried to surprise her boyfriend for Valentine’s Day by laying naked on the table – her body covered only in pieces of hand-rolled sushi (watch out for the wasabi).
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As you prepare your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, consider a menu of these tasty aphrodisiacs and see how lucky you get!
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<b>Asparagus</b> — Michigan is a leading grower of this member of the lily family, which is said to stir up lust in both men and women. Maybe it’s the phallic shape, but this vegetable is chock full of vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, thiamin and folic acid – which is said to widely known to boost histamine production needed for both sexes to reach orgasm.
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<b>Almonds</b> — Regarded as a symbol of fertility, the aroma of almonds is said to arouse passions in females. With abundant doses of vitamin E, fiber and magnesium, they’re sure to generate energy to keep you going all night long.
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<b>Aniseed</b> — Sucking the seeds is said to increase the female libido.
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<b>Avocados</b> — The Spanish found this voluptuous fruit so obscenely sexy that Catholic priests prohibited their consumption. The Aztecs’ name for the avocado tree was Ahuacuatl – or "testicle tree" – because the fruit hanging in pairs was said to resemble the male’s “crown jewels.” Said to be associated with male sexuality – despite the fact that cut and pitted it resembles a feminine shape – avocados are high in folic acid, vitamin B6, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and oleic acid.
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<b>Bananas</b> — Shapely and nutritional, this fruit is loaded with magnesium, B vitamins and potassium, as well as chelating minerals and the bromelain enzyme which are known to enhance the male libido. Hindus regarded the banana as a symbol of fertility, while Central Americans drink the sap of red bananas as a well-known aphrodisiac.
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<b>Basil</b> — Considered a royal herb by the Greeks and noted as a token of love in some parts of Italy, this fragrant member of the mint family has an aroma so potent that it is believed to cure headaches. Basil is said to have a warming effect on the body, while at the same time promoting circulation.
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<b>Caviar</b> — Fish and their by-products are linked to the myth of Aphrodite – the Goddess of Love. Persians were the first eaters of this tiny, salty delicacy – calling it chav-jar which loosely translates to “cake of power.” Caviar is believed to cure a variety of ailments and improve stamina and because of the highly-medicinal properties it enhances nerve cells and heightens romantic instincts.
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<b>Celery</b> — Containing androsterone (a male hormone), this female aphrodisiac is believed to increase sexual arousal and desire in women.
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<b>Chili</b> — This natural aphrodisiac contains capsaicin, which is a chemical that releases endorphins in the body and stimulates the nerve endings, making the body highly sensitive to even the lightest touch, while also increasing one’s pulse.
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<b>Chocolate</b> — Giving the same high as endorphins, can be consumed in liquid or solid form or in combination with strawberries, champagne or red wine.
<b>Eggs</b> — An ancient symbol of fertility, eggs are high in B6 and B5, which fight stress and balance hormone levels. Eaten before sex, raw chicken eggs are said to enhance one’s libido.
<b>Figs</b> — Erotic literature often uses this sweet purple fruit to symbolize the female sex organs, because of its suggestive appearance and texture. Ancient Greeks valued figs – which are widely associated with fertility – as more precious than gold.
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<b>Fois Gras</b> — A food of luxury, often depicting wealth and fine living, this decadent delicacy boasts a smooth, butter texture. Considered to be an aphrodisiac, given its perceived ties to the well-to-do lifestyle status, it is sure to put you in a rich and a sexy mood.
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<b>Garlic</b> — One of the oldest aphrodisiacs on record, despite its pungent aroma, eating raw, crushed garlic is believed to increase men’s sexual desire.
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<b>Ginko</b> — Both the leaves and seeds are said to arouse a woman vaginally and heightens orgasms.
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<b>Ginsing</b> — This energy-enhancing herb, with its mild stimulating effect, is known to resemble the male organ and even its name means “man root.” Ginsing also relieves stress and opens up sexual possibilities.
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<b>Honey</b> — Known as the nectar of Aphrodite, this sweet, sticky, buttery treat is one of the most seductive foods available across the globe. It’s natural sugars contribute to increased energy, as the B-vitamins, enzymes and amino acids help pump energizers through your system. Honey is as much a sensual experience (especially when drizzled warm over one’s body) as it is a delicious indulgence (such as rubbing it into the skin or, well, consuming it from off the body).
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<b>Oysters</b> — Casanova is said to have eaten 50 raw oysters every day – the most commonly known aphrodisiac. Research reveals that raw oysters are very high in zinc – which raises sperm and testosterone production, thus boosting libido. They’re also full of omega-3 fatty acids – which increase one’s overall well-being and are known fight depression. And as a bonus, they’re a source of dopamine – that gratification feeling that one gets during “The Big O.”
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<b>Vanilla</b> — When someone refers to “vanilla sex” it is meant to convey a sense of ordinary. But, ironically, vanilla flavors and scents actually deliver an overwhelming euphoric effect – on both genders. As far back as the 1800s, the scent of vanilla was said to increase a man’s sexual propensity and more recently, a study conducted at the Chicago’s Smell and Taste Research Foundation found that vanilla beans are one of the best aphrodisiacs for men. If consumed, vanilla can help one overcome sexual debilitation and improve the performance of the central nervous system. Add a few drops of vanilla essence into steaming hot bath water, use a vanilla based oil for a full body massage, light vanilla scented candles or as an added treat, try adding a few vanilla beans to a glass of champagne.
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<b>Wasabi</b> — This Japanese horseradish increases blood circulation in the body and stimulates the nerves of the body, especially in women. Of course, many believe that sushi itself has aphrodisiacal effects.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-12531108270105740622014-06-02T16:45:00.000-07:002014-06-02T16:45:39.955-07:00Party On...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_S9koBLsvX1sjjcfeJYstjVJwD3ynJb4vemjLtHK2VtXhu8SFmWcOt6_XsFV15i7Cb_CCMNZiMnP1DzWqo7RgI1cPSTHCc0sCswesvYNXFLR_AMP-i9O6ZE_cCPn1j0rWF0hyy0HK8Mk/s1600/Party.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_S9koBLsvX1sjjcfeJYstjVJwD3ynJb4vemjLtHK2VtXhu8SFmWcOt6_XsFV15i7Cb_CCMNZiMnP1DzWqo7RgI1cPSTHCc0sCswesvYNXFLR_AMP-i9O6ZE_cCPn1j0rWF0hyy0HK8Mk/s200/Party.JPG" /></a></div>
In celebration of my "new home" - the BLOG CABIN - in Northwest Michigan, I decided to host a big party (also, it was my 45th birthday). Those who know me know that I don't do things small. So - I planned a big foodie shindig...a campfire seafood boil! The big concern was A) I have never cooked anything besides hotdogs and marshmallows over a fire and B) I have never cooked a seafood boil (on my own).
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Thank goodness for Google!
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First, I enlisted the help of a dear friend who had crafted campfire tripods before - using three metal fence posts, a few pieces of chain, s-hooks and cook pots! Genius! And, living on a nearly 4 acre partially-wooded parcel just north of Lake Ann, I had plenty of aged logs and branches to fuel the fires.
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Shopping for the dinner was challenging, yet fun. When all was said and done, my freezers and fridges were full of 11 lbs of crawfish, 7 lbs of shrimp, 12 lbs of mussels, 10 lbs of potatoes, 5 lbs of onions, 3 lbs of mushrooms, celery, garlic, a dozen lemons, 5 packs of boil mix, 3 pans of cornbread, 3 baguette loaves, homemade guacamole and pico de gallo with Michigan-made chips, Greek orzo salad, apple crisp, s'more fixin's (including my new secret ingredient, windmill cookies in place of graham crackers) and probably more, that I can't think of at the moment. Oh, and LOTS and LOTS of Michigan beer, wine and spirits.
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Thankfully -- my mom, aunt and uncle were on hand to help get the food out, the boil boiling, and keep things moving smoothly while I was greeting guests (from near and far) and giving house tours.
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Not only did I fill up my wine rack(s) with some great Michigan wines (including a 2002 Pinot Noir from Willow Vineyards) and bouquets and bouquets of fresh picked lilacs, but I was treated to some other great housewarming gifts that will be enjoyed for days/weeks/months/years to come!
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The weather was perfect too (even though the mosquitos were plentiful) but it was the greatest night and I am so thankful for those who came to welcome me to the neighborhood!
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Now...onto planning the next party...Saturday, August 16 - in celebration of PROMOTE MICHIGAN's 10th Anniversary!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-27494927519961054642014-03-25T06:11:00.000-07:002014-03-25T06:11:01.847-07:00Living the Dream...Two major "new" things happened this month...one directly tied to the other. For seven or eight years now, I've been dreaming of moving to the Traverse City area. As a long-time visitor to the region, I'd made friends with countless people who enjoyed many of the things that I did -- eating, drinking, socializing and enjoying the agricultural and natural wonders of the area.
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Before long, I found my visits north were more frequent...and they were lasting longer. I began spending a almost a week in Empire over Memorial Weekend in May, to welcome the summer season and five days over Thanksgiving to say goodbye to fall. On the trips home to Plainwell, which began later and later in the day as years went on, I longed to be back in this area where there was just "something" inviting and welcoming that I wanted to experience more and more.
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In 2009, as Mollie was heading into her senior year - I made plans to move to Traverse City after her graduation. Caleb was planning to move to his dad's for his high school years, and with my statewide work schedule, I would still be able to make it back for his football games and other important school functions. Less than a week after Mollie's graduation (and two weeks after an amazing Memorial Weekend in Glen Arbor with the kids and their friends), I broke my ankle (a triple fracture) and was laid up all summer long. Moving was off the table.
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As the year continued on, Caleb returned to high school and I decided it just wasn't fair to him to leave. So I set my sights on 2014 and went about my days parenting, working, traveling and yet, still dreaming about the move north.
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In January, I began my online search for a place to rent. My timeline was any time after May and before September. In February, while searching CraigsList, I found the perfect home! Ironically, it was a place I was familiar with -- from the outside at least. I had driven past this beautiful log home many times over the past several months while visiting friends in the Lake Ann area and staying at nearby <a href="http://sleepingbearresort.com/">Sleeping Bear Resort</a>. It had been for sale and every time I passed by, I thought (or said to anyone who was with me in the car at the time) "I wonder if they'd consider renting." Turns out, they were!
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I sent a message as fast as I could and in a couple days heard back from <a href="http://www.Lakeviewmanagement.com">Lakeview Property Management</a>. I filled out the application loaded with references of my most connected TC area friends and a letter sharing my "dream" of living in the area and having a home large enough to entertain family and friends (both from the area and those from downstate). Without even having been inside the house, I knew it would be my new home. Luckily, I was able to arrange a viewing with a friend who was in the area -- who at least confirmed the house was not only suitable but "pretty big for one person." PERFECT...just what I was hoping for!
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I was working at the Grand Rapids Boat Show on February 18 when I got the call that the house would be mine (it was between me and one other candidate)! How soon could I move? I immediately sent word to my Plainwell landlord, gave my 30 days and started making plans for move day: Friday, March 21.
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Thus...we come to the two "new" things for March.
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First - was driving a U-Haul. Not just any truck but a 26-footer (which ironically wasn't big enough for all my stuff...which I don't understand, given I was moving from an 1100sf house to a 2500sf house with a barn). Thankfully, I had the help of a dear friend and my kids and a few of their friends to pack this truck from top to bottom, side to side, front to back (along with a couple personal vehicles). A handful of lesser wanted/needed items were left on the curb for pickers to grab. Loading started around 8:45am and by 11:45am we were headed out. By 3:00pm we rolled into the driveway in Traverse City (defined by the actual address, but locals consider it Lake Ann). By 7:00pm, we were on our way to Hoftbrau in Interlochen for a well deserved dinner (and drink, for those of us over the age of 21).
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In less than 12 hours, we had completely moved me from my hometown of Plainwell -- where I was the third of four generations to graduate from Plainwell High School (on my dad's side) and where I had lived all but two-and-a-half years of my life (and those years were 1.5 in Schoolcraft and 1 in Otsego).
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So, my second "new" thing for March is living north of the Allegan County line. Three hours north of where I had always called home (it will still always be my hometown of course)...where I lived for the last eight years, just two blocks from where I grew up (from age 6 to 21). Away from my kids, my parents, my siblings and my family. I was off to live my dream and thankfully I had the love and support from my family and friends to make it happen. Of course, now I have this amazing 3-level log home on four acres just 15 miles from Lake Michigan, 15 miles from downtown Traverse City, less than 15 miles from Interlochen and about 20 miles from Glen Arbor. I think I'll see a few more visitors here than I did at my home in Plainwell. At least, that's what I'm counting on.
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One of the reasons I was drawn to this area of Michigan was the sense of community it provided. Drop in participatory dinners, community gatherings, drinks on the deck (or by the fire pit or at the beach or on the boat), nearby wineries and breweries, hiking trails, spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan, bocce ball, world-class festivals, amazing vistas around nearly every turn or over every hill. While I've spent a great deal of time visiting this area over the past 20 years, I'm looking forward to discovering new places, visiting restaurants that have been on my long-time bucket list, checking out the dozen new wineries that have popped up in recent years and making new friends.
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Living the dream? You bet...and I wouldn't have it any other way. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by and say hello - and bring along some Michigan wine, beer, spirits, mead or cider...and help me toast my new home!
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For more photos: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan/media_set?set=a.10152031860316169.1073741833.601776168&type=3&uploaded=17">https://www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan/media_set?set=a.10152031860316169.1073741833.601776168&type=3&uploaded=17</a>
Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-39262505443995813182014-02-16T07:04:00.000-08:002014-02-16T07:04:32.693-08:00Walking on Water...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZUP8N5AgVuf12XpBQnfx4n2WvBvw4d-Y-6UQe_2uIO5z7kNlJFIi_HxNVoYmYug3ePakPER-Wc1r7PakVE0V2FOqIAA4ZoHz7pLpDVOT8eyp3Lxmi50TVlx2qcCZ_4igKnMddIlkxtM/s1600/1688302_10151963864041169_1013213536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZUP8N5AgVuf12XpBQnfx4n2WvBvw4d-Y-6UQe_2uIO5z7kNlJFIi_HxNVoYmYug3ePakPER-Wc1r7PakVE0V2FOqIAA4ZoHz7pLpDVOT8eyp3Lxmi50TVlx2qcCZ_4igKnMddIlkxtM/s320/1688302_10151963864041169_1013213536_n.jpg" /></a></div>
It's been a cold and snowy winter in Michigan. The coldest and snowiest that I remember in my adult life - and probably, for most of my childhood (although I was alive during the "blizzard" of 1978, I don't really remember it). It's been so cold that nearly 90 percent of the five Great Lakes combined are ice covered as of Thursday, February 13 (according to the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab). That's some serious ice-ice, baby!
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I've had the opportunity to walk and snowshoe along the frozen shoreline many times over the past few years -- Muskegon, Frankfort, Empire -- but I've never seen ANYTHING like what I experienced yesterday in South Haven. Snow and ice for as far as the eye could see -- for miles to the south, north AND west. The normally sugar-sand beaches were covered in rolling hills of snow, ice chunks and mountainous mini caves leaving one to question whether they were at the lake or on some desolate planet.
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Nearly as impressive as the landscape were the crowds of people out exploring this natural winter phenomenon. People were scraping away the snow to see the thick, white ice below. They were walking the pier to the bright red lighthouse. They were walking out great distances from the shore, posing, taking photos, taking photos of others taking photos, talking with each other about how incredibly crazy this all was. It's hard to really capture and explain the essence of what was going on out there -- in terms of the conversations that were had between total strangers and the shear expanse of it all.
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Yesterday - I truly was one of dozens, no - hundreds, who literally walked on water (albeit frozen) in a way we probably never will again. It's unlike anything I have experienced before...and perhaps, ever will again.
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<b>Great Lakes Ice Facts</b>
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The Great Lakes, which hold nearly one-fifth of the surface fresh water in the world, are almost completely frozen over after an unusually cold winter.
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As of Thursday, nearly 90% of the lakes are under a cover of ice, according to the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory.
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The last time they came this close to being completely frozen over was in 1994, when 94% of the lakes’ surface was ice.
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If the rate at which ice has been growing continues, an all-time record could be set later this month.
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“In the last one to two weeks, we’ve seen rapid accumulations on Lakes Superior, Huron and Michigan,” Michigan State University associate professor and state climatologist Jeff Andresen said.
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The freeze is a major reversal from last year, when the five lakes only reached 38% ice cover.
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The lakes’ water supply has been far below average in recent years, and the ice could prove beneficial by slowing evaporation and shutting off lake-effect snow.
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<b>Lake Michigan Facts</b>
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Lake Michigan is the third largest Great Lake by surface area and the sixth largest freshwater lake in the world.
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Lake Michigan Length: 307 miles / 494 km.
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Lake Michigan Lake Michigan: 118 miles / 190 km.
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Lake Michigan Average Depth: 279 ft. / 85 m
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Lake Michigan Maximum Depth: 925 ft. / 282 m.
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Lake Michigan Volume: 1,180 cubic miles / 4,920 cubic km.
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Lake Michigan Water Surface Area: 22,300 sq. miles / 57,800 sq. km
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Lake Michigan Shoreline Length(including islands): 1,638 miles / 2,633 km.
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Lake Michigan Elevation: 577 ft. / 176 m.
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Lake Michigan Retention / Replacement Time: 99 years
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<b>Where Lake Michigan got its name: </b>
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Champlain called it the Grand Lac. It was later named "Lake of the Stinking Water" or "Lake of the Puants," after the people who occupied its shores. In 1679, the lake became known as Lac des Illinois because it gave access to the country of the Indians, so named. Three years before, Allouez called it Lac St. Joseph, by which name it was often designated by early writers. Others called it Lac Dauphin. Through the further explorations of Jolliet and Marquette, the "Lake of the Stinking Water" received its final name of Michigan.
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Another story recounts that Nicolet, the first European to set foot in Wisconsin in 1634, landed on the shores of Green Bay and was greeted by Winnebago Indians, whom the French called "Puans." Lake Michigan was labeled as "Lake of Puans" on an early and incomplete 1670 map of the region that showed only the northern shores of the lake. However, only Green Bay is labeled as "Baye de Puans" (Bay of the Winnebago Indians) on maps from 1688 and 1708. On the 1688 map, Lake Michigan is called Lac des Illinois.
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An Indian name for Lake Michigan was "Michi gami."
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For more photos: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan">https://www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan</a>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-18203444550352337302014-01-04T06:18:00.000-08:002014-01-04T06:18:26.100-08:00I'm baaaaaack<i>Okay...so it's been since August, 2011 since I've posted on this blog. Doesn't mean I haven't been out there exploring new places...new things...meeting new people. I guess I've just been so busy doing so that I haven't had time to sit down and actually WRITE about them. New year...back on task!</i>
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<b>So...what's new for January 2014?</b>
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A couple summers ago, I finally took my first ride on a jet ski - so I figured it was time to give snowmobiling a try. Of course, I picked one of the coldest weeks of the winter (so far) to head out exploring the trails of <a href="http://www.explorebenzie.com/snowmobile/"><b>Benzie</b></a> and Leelanau County.
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When I checked in for my week in Cabin #3 at <a href="http://www.sleepingbearresort.com"><b>Sleeping Bear Resort</b></a> in Lake Ann, I asked owners Randy & Doreen Fosgard if they'd have time during the week to take me out for a few hours and introduce me to this winter activity. They graciously agreed. So, on Friday we set out for a 90-minute ride through winding wooded areas, along groomed trails and zipping down the backsides of many of the area's long-stretching corn fields at increased rates of speed (my favorite part).
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We ended up at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kerbys-Bar-and-Grill/165129583524059"><b>Kerby's Bar and Grill</b></a> in Maple City -- a former one room school converted into a pub (and fitness center, go figure). I've always wanted to check this place out - given my fondness for one room schools -- and the fact that we could ride the sleds up and park right outside was a bonus (especially since my face was getting chilled since the wind picked up). A quick bite and we were back on the trails for the quick ride back to Lake Ann. Definitely a fun-filled winter day!
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According to the <a href="http://michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10365_14824-31074--,00.html"><b>Michigan Department of Transportation</b></a>: "More than 6,200 miles of designated snowmobile trails are located throughout the state of Michigan forests, three national forests and many acres of privately owned lands. Michigan is one of only three states that offer a large system of interconnected snowmobile trails. Approximately 50% of the snowmobile trail system is located on Private lands; 20% Federal; 25% State; and 5% Other Public. More than 150 grooming tractors are used by more than 65 grant program sponsors to groom the 6,200-mile trail system.”
Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-80879434745673040222011-08-01T08:44:00.000-07:002011-08-01T08:49:12.119-07:00Travel memories last a lifetime…<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNseOf3MVAdeDByS12jlevge4YLfLfDhT9ruEQoa0CZWNZTdf6pOZWrhm6OolqUmYJDh6XnOZT1H5fGsECYfIYIhkVZQ-0r_vadkGydzhgYaiqp-LLIzE0mCzjR0LjJQpXgfR5aXsETQ/s1600/northport6-thumb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNseOf3MVAdeDByS12jlevge4YLfLfDhT9ruEQoa0CZWNZTdf6pOZWrhm6OolqUmYJDh6XnOZT1H5fGsECYfIYIhkVZQ-0r_vadkGydzhgYaiqp-LLIzE0mCzjR0LjJQpXgfR5aXsETQ/s400/northport6-thumb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635914748569580050" /></a>One of my earliest travel memories involves a trip my family took when I was about 3 years old. The details are sketchy, but I remember tall pine trees, blue water, our woody station wagon, a tent – and rain. I later learned that we had spent a few wet days at Leelanau State Park in Northport (sleeping mostly in the car because the tent leaked).<br /><br />Apparently at one point, we also made a visit into Traverse City because I recall visiting a zoo and riding on The Spirit of Traverse City miniature steam train (in a blue dress, with white polka dots) at the former Clinch Park Zoo.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaloIFhboGSPlYQRM02uhrVfD7b1hMo2Ddqxh3msIKhe5r2DqnvSOZg-_cyRCxyFw6RveT5RDwNaqvEtm-cnxBnzWgh8fO2q1DR0CsEHpDf6IJJdjfmEHuK00WDrq0QHsG53vfMZKeJkg/s1600/SpiritofTC.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 210px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaloIFhboGSPlYQRM02uhrVfD7b1hMo2Ddqxh3msIKhe5r2DqnvSOZg-_cyRCxyFw6RveT5RDwNaqvEtm-cnxBnzWgh8fO2q1DR0CsEHpDf6IJJdjfmEHuK00WDrq0QHsG53vfMZKeJkg/s400/SpiritofTC.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635914828607464802" /></a><br /><br /><br />I expect this trip was one of our first – and to my knowledge, our only – family camping trip. I firmly believe that first memorable family trip helped spark in me the travel bug which sustains me today. And, given the destination of our trip, it explains my ongoing love affair with the Greater Traverse City Area.<br /><br />Fast forward a dozen years to my next (and last) camping experience – this time, with a high school friend and her family. I can’t recall where we were – I just remember that it rained (go figure) and it was cold. The highlight of the weekend was rustling up a fire to toast marshmallows for smores (today, still one of my FAVORITE treats. Oh, and by the way – August 10 is “National Smore Day”).<br /><br />So – obviously camping isn’t necessarily my forte. I’m not opposed to camping, it’s just something that I haven’t been exposed to and now at 40+, not exactly sure how to get started.<br /><br />Luckily for me, there are programs offered to help educate newbies like myself. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources “Becoming an Outdoors Woman” (<a href="http://www.michigan.gov/bow">www.michigan.gov/bow</a>) provides tips on everything from archery and firearms to paddling, fly fishing, camping and so much more. Taught for women, by women, these programs teach outdoor skills in a non-threatening environment – with all equipment provided!<br /><br />The Michigan DNR also offers a new Recreation 101 program – with hands-on clinics held at Michigan state parks, recreational areas and boating facilities throughout the state. These free lessons acquaint novice outdoor enthusiasts will the skills and knowledge to get them started in a new activity such as hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, paddling, horseback riding, birding and even geo-caching. (<a href="http://www.michigan.gov/dnr">http://www.michigan.gov/dnr</a>).<br /><br />If, like me, you are looking for an opportunity to get out and explore the Great Lakes State’s great outdoors, August is the perfect time as it is Michigan Camping & RV Month (see featured destination to the left). This state-wide celebration highlights the woods and waters of Michigan and encourages residents and visitors alike to rediscover what makes our state so special. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com">www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com</a>.<br /><br />For more details on other Pure Michigan experiences, visit <a href="http://www.Michigan.org">www.Michigan.org</a>!<br /><br /><strong><em><br />Safe Travels!</em></strong><br /><br /><em><br />Footnote…the Spirit of Traverse City is scheduled to be closed down following this summer season. To help keep this train a rolling, please “like” this Facebook page to “Save the Spirit of Traverse City Steam Train” <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-The-Spirit-of-Traverse-City-Steam-Train">www.facebook.com/pages/Save-The-Spirit-of-Traverse-City-Steam-Train</a></em>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com115tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-70970357668167354192011-07-06T09:34:00.001-07:002011-07-06T09:42:46.797-07:00If you plant it, it will grow…<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiUL7oBulCPHZG9yzs4X_Vw1xc3gRinY0_UxyFh2yeINAwvAqTqoSvNV_nPGBvVq2sAEu1BTGFbBJi7EUa0jDJSBkbLdAi9lyX9KtSiNKNcpNjpWSH_lcmQYk2a7soElF4XtBdFC-eIo/s1600/270575_10150238158796169_601776168_7352494_2700267_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoiUL7oBulCPHZG9yzs4X_Vw1xc3gRinY0_UxyFh2yeINAwvAqTqoSvNV_nPGBvVq2sAEu1BTGFbBJi7EUa0jDJSBkbLdAi9lyX9KtSiNKNcpNjpWSH_lcmQYk2a7soElF4XtBdFC-eIo/s400/270575_10150238158796169_601776168_7352494_2700267_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626280313563141778" /></a>It only made sense that with my growing love of the farm-to-table movement, that eventually I’d get around to planting my own vegetable garden (I’ve been dabbling in flower gardening for the past few years – so it’s a natural progression).<br /><br />Driven by the passion of some of my favorite local chefs – Matthew Pietsch at Salt of the Earth, Matthew Millar at Reserve GR and Paul Olsen at Mission Table, among others, I have returned to my long-time “lifestyle” of trying something new – this year, it was the chef’s garden!<br /><br />My visual inspiration came from two primary sources, the first being JW Marriott’s six.one.six restaurant in downtown Grand Rapids. Tucked in the corner of the jdek, overlooking the Grand River, the intimate seasonal garden boasts a variety of herbs and small vegetables. The thought of the culinary team stepping outside each morning to gather their bounty for the day puts a smile on my face. <br /><br />The second, grandiose vision came from the movie, It’s Complicated, starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin. Not from the storyline itself, but from the magnificent and vibrant chef’s garden that Meryl’s character, Jane, has grown. That is my dream garden!<br /><br />I fully expected that I could easily duplicate the garden from the movie – until I actually began the process! <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpuy51sWPEK3fClC7IX77hgaRRSob1S3ObWOt_0ZKNaotZvCqicwvDwn_eZKfnAdEnwcQRMXAsjMshoIAHaUDTtm6Gx9Og2fy8gskunXOkqPGUi4DnSuMZJDn0lM3RxKfjT6A08aO4Lo/s1600/253718_10150202043611169_601776168_7071868_3679807_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpuy51sWPEK3fClC7IX77hgaRRSob1S3ObWOt_0ZKNaotZvCqicwvDwn_eZKfnAdEnwcQRMXAsjMshoIAHaUDTtm6Gx9Og2fy8gskunXOkqPGUi4DnSuMZJDn0lM3RxKfjT6A08aO4Lo/s320/253718_10150202043611169_601776168_7071868_3679807_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626279883056434290" /></a>My daughter, Mollie, and her friend, Nikki, helped me take off the garden in the south side yard – 10 x 25 is what we ended up with, although my original plan was twice, maybe three times that size. I’m sure my son, Caleb, is thankful we started small – because he was charged with the job of tilling the land, turning over the dark, rich dirt. He had been bragging about his progress in his weight training class, always showing off his “guns” so I thought this was a way for me to prove just HOW strong he really was<br /><br />From then on, the garden was all mine! I spent the afternoon pulling out the clumps of grass and roots, tossing rocks into a pile for later use. By the end of the weekend, it was ready for planting and I set out in search of my favorite veggies: tomatoes (4-5 different kinds), peppers ( 2-3 different kinds), brussel sprouts (a dozen plants – much to the dismay of my father, but to the joy of almost everyone else I know), purple cabbage, broccoli, sweet corn, zucchini, lettuce (leaf and romaine) and eggplant – as well as herbs: chives, cilantro, sweet basil, parsley.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALBkyZTgBq1QLNrv7gpRQTXM-pWapR9y3tZrYe-IUCjtlmrpbg382Q9UbM2rMK1Rrxqe7IoBxhZbohD1ZKsZG_kAgIPjKkf7R9qOAwJ7vRSVCSHqsKs7KzHpun2BHuFoUPH5DvAk4mYo/s1600/263883_10150238157121169_601776168_7352466_8351868_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALBkyZTgBq1QLNrv7gpRQTXM-pWapR9y3tZrYe-IUCjtlmrpbg382Q9UbM2rMK1Rrxqe7IoBxhZbohD1ZKsZG_kAgIPjKkf7R9qOAwJ7vRSVCSHqsKs7KzHpun2BHuFoUPH5DvAk4mYo/s320/263883_10150238157121169_601776168_7352466_8351868_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626280474197865090" /></a>Even as I sit her on this sunny morning, my daughter stopped by for an unexpected visit. So, I took a short break from writing and walked with her to explore the growth in the garden. A handful of peppers and tomatoes are there…the zucchini have flowers, as does the eggplant. And, the corn was well past my knees by the 4th of July.<br /><br />We picked some lettuce, basil and cilantro for her to take back to her place – a salad in the works! She’s anxious for the tomatoes – saying she wants to make a capresse salad (a girl after my own heart). I am already anticipating a big gathering of family and friends to celebrate the harvest later this summer. It will be grand time, without question. Photos to follow!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-14252384173163080852010-07-30T16:14:00.001-07:002010-08-03T07:17:09.899-07:00Promote Michigan Speakers Bureau<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHStuLO5U919AHFDdVNnahYt8UsYtlT3qMPO8tBtiqH0hdzLbeENpCqzQogKhx0jxU_Q9wfnc8vvrrgfOhiiTy1gbbWIScYEtUDY6mgVBJpd1I_Dcgqh13au-HCQWh-Gqv1XtMQcn7Peg/s1600/smi.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 165px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHStuLO5U919AHFDdVNnahYt8UsYtlT3qMPO8tBtiqH0hdzLbeENpCqzQogKhx0jxU_Q9wfnc8vvrrgfOhiiTy1gbbWIScYEtUDY6mgVBJpd1I_Dcgqh13au-HCQWh-Gqv1XtMQcn7Peg/s400/smi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499843627555399282" /></a><em>Since 1997, Dianna Stampfler has been presenting lively and upbeat programs about the area’s historic lighthouses, ghost towns, islands and other unique destinations and activities in her home state of Michigan. Dianna is a professional speaker, with a degree in communications from Western Michigan University and 23 years experience in radio broadcasting and public speaking. An established freelance writer, Dianna is a regular contributor to Michigan Blue Magazine and Grand Rapids Family Magazine, and has also been published in Michigan Living, Michigan Travel Ideas, Lake Michigan Circle Tour & Lighthouse Guide, Country Lines, Taster’s Guild International and Grand Rapids Magazine. Over the years, she has held memberships in the Great Lake Lighthouse Keepers Association and Historical Society of Michigan.</em><br /><br /><strong>Postcards to Michigan’s Past (NEW):</strong><br />Before email and text messages, postcards were the premier way to send a quick message to family and friends. Fortunately, these cards have been preserved and saved from generation to generation – offering a glimpse into a simpler time of carefree vacations around the Great Lakes State. Postcards actually offer double the fun – with the beautiful scenic image on one side and the heartfelt message on the back. <br /><br /><strong>Ladies of the Lights (Audience Favorite):</strong><br />They were women before their time, taking on the romantic, yet dangerous and physically demanding job of tending to the beacons that protected the shoreline. In all, some 40 women have been identified who excelled in this profession over the years — dating back as early as the 1840s and as recent as present day. Nearly 70 images of keepers, their families and their lights make up this presentation. The program includes readings from newspapers and autobiographies, as well as handouts including the list of featured ladies and additional reading references for attendees. <br /><br /><strong>Michigan’s Ghostly Beacons (Audience Favorite):</strong><br />What is it about lighthouses that attract ghostly spirits? Maybe it’s simply a passion that will not go away. Lighthouse keepers were known to be extremely dedicated to their profession and it seems that many were never able to give it up — even after death. Nearly two dozen lights in Michigan are rumored to be haunted. From the smell of cigar smoke at Seul Choix Point Light to the mysterious housekeeping at White River Light Station and the antics at Waugoshance Shoal, these stories will entertain all ages. <br /><br /><strong>Michigan Tidbits & Trivia: </strong><br />Where will you find the World’s Largest Weathervane? What famous actor hails from Manistee County? In what Michigan city is Jiffy Mix made? How old is the State of Michigan? The answers to these — and dozens of other — questions will be revealed during this interactive program: “Michigan: Tidbits & Trivia.” This family program promises to be entertaining, as well as educational.<br /><br /><strong>Bridge to Michigan’s Past:</strong><br />There are more than a dozen covered bridges throughout the state of Michigan, three within just a short drive of each other. Originally covered to protect the wooden floors from the elements, today they are one of the most photographed structures in the state. While some of these bridges remain open to automobile traffic, some limit their access to those traveling via foot or bicycle. Of course, you can’t talk Michigan bridges without referencing the most famous: The Mackinac Bridge and the Blue Water Bridge. Other uniquely significant bridges around the state will also be showcased.<br /><br /><strong>Michigan Ghost Towns:</strong><br />Hundreds of 'ghost towns' dot Michigan's landscape throughout both the Lower and Upper Peninsulas. Some even still appear on state highway maps. Originally centered in logging, farming, and mining areas, these towns often faded into history when the natural resources were depleted. Only a handful remain standing, silent and abandoned, as a reminder of what once was. Settle in for an historic tour through Michigan’s past as you visit the ghost towns of the Great Lakes State. <br /><br /><strong>Islands of Michigan:</strong><br />It’s no wonder that the Great Lakes State is graced with hundreds of islands, just waiting to be explored. From the rustic Isle Royale and Les Cheneaux Islands, to the North and South Manitou Islands (which once housed established communities) to the most noted Beaver Island (home of Michigan’s only King) High Island (former home to the House of David), Drummond Island and Mackinac Islands (where automobiles are not allowed), these islands are gems in Michigan’s history. <br /><br /><strong>Michigan’s Historic One Room Schoolhouses:</strong><br />Nearly lost to time to consolidation of districts, Michigan’s thousands of one room schools once dotted the landscape every few miles. Fortunately, many have been preserved and have found a new place in historical villages. Some have been converted into homes, antique shops, art galleries and museums. A small number are still in use. Take an educational and photographic trip back in time and see those that have been lost -- and found. <br /><br /><strong>Michigan’s Winter Playground:</strong><br />Michigan is a giant snow-filled playground when Mother Nature rolls out the winter carpet. Miles of trails available for snowmobiling and cross country skiing, dozens of slopes for downhill skiing and acres of wooded areas for snowshoeing are just waiting to be explored. There’s also plenty of opportunity for more extreme activities such as luging, rafting, ice sailing, camping and dogsledding. Those looking for less actual activity will enjoy one of many winter food offerings, including the Gourmet Glide, Zhivago Night, Mountaintop Dinners and Elk Viewing Carriage Rides. Don’t forget about the festivals such as Tip Up Town, Suds-n-Snow, Toast the Passion, Motown Winter Blast and the Women’s Winter Tour. Learn about all the exciting things just waiting to be experienced in Michigan during the winter season<br /><br />______________________________________________<br /><br /><strong>DETAILS:</strong><br />These programs, tailored at 30-90 minutes each, are ideal for museums, libraries, schools, historical societies, churches, life-long learning programs & senior centers and women’s groups. <br /><br /><strong>PRESENTATION COST:</strong><br />$250 per program<br /><br /><strong>EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT:</strong><br />50 cents per mile, round trip from Plainwell, Mich. <br />*Additional expenses, such as a meal per diem and/or accommodations, may be required for destinations more than 150 miles from Plainwell or for those starting before 9am or after 8pm. <br /><br /><strong>EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENT:</strong><br />LCD projector (Presentations are presented on Microsoft PowerPoint)<br /><br />______________________________________________<br /><br /><strong>TO BOOK A PROGRAM, CONTACT:</strong><br />Dianna Stampfler<br />Promote Michigan<br />mobile - 269-330-4228<br />fax - 269-204-6232<br />email - <a href="Dianna@promotemichigan.com">Dianna@promotemichigan.com</a><br /> <br />Blog: <a href="http://www.PromoteMichigan.Blogspot.com">www.PromoteMichigan.Blogspot.com</a><br />News: <a href="http://www.PromoteMichiganNews.Blogspot.com">www.PromoteMichiganNews.Blogspot.com</a> <br />Facebook: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan">www.facebook.com/PromoteMichigan</a><br />Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/PromoteMichigan">www.twitter.com/PromoteMichigan</a>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-65230244486173840592010-02-15T14:45:00.000-08:002010-02-15T14:53:36.801-08:00Shameless Self Promotion<strong>Comments from current clients . . .</strong> <br /> <br />This is one of the easiest references I’ve been asked to write. Dianna Stampfler is an exceptional Publicist. I have been producing major public shows for 20 years and have worked with at least 10 publicists over the years. I have used Dianna’s services for the Grand Rapids Auto Show for 6 years and have added our Wine & Food Festival and Boat Show since then. She is the best for several reasons: diligence, resourcefulness, punctuality, eagerness, professionalism and her contacts are voluminous. She is also on the cutting edge of Social Networking, a category that is separating all publicists these days. You will never regret hiring Dianna. <br /><br /><em>– Henri Boucher, VP/Show Producer - ShowSpan - Grand Rapids</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * <br /><br />Since coming on board with the Michigan Brewers Guild in 2008 as PR consultant, Promote Michigan has certainly exceeded our expectations. Dianna’s extensive knowledge and seemingly limitless contact list has really helped our organization communicate with the public which has, in turn, greatly helped us meet our objectives. In fact, we have been so pleased with our arrangement with Promote Michigan and with our continued working relationship that we have increased our financial commitment each of the past 3 years. <br /><br /><em>– Scott Graham, Executive Director – Michigan Brewers Guild</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />Our relationship with Dianna dates back several years to her time at WMTA. We were immediately impressed by her dedication and tireless efforts to promote our company. I am proud to say that my company was Dianna's first client. When she told me she was going into business for herself I did not hesitate to "hop on board." Dianna is a master of her craft who puts everything she's got into promoting her clients. Our work with Dianna has produced significant media attention resulting in thousands of dollars in revenue. We consider Promote Michigan to be a key part of our advertising plan. I would not hesitate to recommend her services to anyone. <br /><br /><em>– Captain Dave McGinnis, Owner - Traverse Tall Ship Company LLC, Traverse City</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />We here at Grand Traverse Distillery have been very pleased with the work Dianna has done for us concerning the promotion of our distillery and spirits. Over the years we have wondered where best to spend our limited resources concerning our promotions. Promote Michigan is a resource we know we are getting our return on the investment. It’s the best value that we have for expanding our distillery and keeping our name in front and center. <br /><br /><em>– Kent Rabish, Owner - Grand Traverse Distillery - Traverse City</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />Dianna Stampfler (Promote Michigan) has been with us for three years now and I can't say enough about her. She has been available at any time we needed her, is responsive to all of our requests and is always timely. I think that Promote Michigan is the best PR firm in Michigan. <br /><br /><em>– Wayne Purchase, Executive Director - Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds- Michigan</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />Dianna is a pleasure to work with - organized, creative and passionate about promoting and celebrating the best that Michigan has to offer.<br /><br /><em>– Mark Schrock, Owner - Salt of the Earth - rustic American eatery & bakery, Fennville</em><br /><br /><strong>Comments from former clients . . .</strong><br /><br />I have found Dianna to be a great person to work with. Her energy, ideas and abilities are amazing. Having the chance to work with her to promote and grow my own business has been wonderful. I have her working in many different areas of promotion and she's always done a great job. In addition, her network of contacts is simply incredible. She has a very bright future in front of her and I'm sure bigger and bigger opportunities will continue to come her way. <br /><br /><em>– Tony Rubleski, President - Mind Capture Group</em><br /><br /><strong>Comments from media . . . </strong><br /><br />Without a sliver of doubt I believe that no other individual professional or professional firm is as passionate about the state of Michigan as Dianna Stampfler. It is the driving force propelling her uncompromised dedication to promoting not only Michigan as a whole, but each player -- from solo entrepreneurs and start-up businesses to annual event organizers and multi-town associations. <br /><br />Seasoned skills set aside, Dianna simply engages and promotes people with such genuine interest she literally has become a state icon: Everybody either knows her, knows of her or has heard from her. Her network of professional colleagues and friends is vast, well-grounded and well-earned. <br /><br />Dianna has assisted me as an editorial right arm in every issue of Michigan BLUE Magazine since its inception five years ago. Her work is always punctual, enterprising and professional. I highly recommend Dianna to anyone seeking promotional assistance and guidance in Michigan – unless it disables her ability to keep representing BLUE Magazine. I don't want to lose her! <br /><br /><em>– Lisa M. Jensen, Editor, Michigan BLUE Magazine</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />Dianna Stampfler is that rare PR person who feels to travel writers like a collaborator, not a marketer. I completely trust Dianna's ethics and candor, and her hands-on knowledge of Michigan hotels, restaurants and getaway spots of all kinds makes her a great go-to source for story tips of pretty much any kind. Not only that, she owns the all-time speed record for response time to inquiries. Without Dianna to collaborate with, my job would be so much harder - and much less fun. <br /><br /><em>– Kim Schneider, Booth Newspapers & Mlive.com travel writer (formerly with Traverse Magazine)</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />I've always been struck by what a terrific job you have done. It's great to hear that your efforts are going to be paying off in a much greater way. You have chosen a great path---and a great strategy! <br /><br /><em>– Terri DeBoer, Meteorologist - WOOD TV8</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />Good luck on your new venture. I'm sure you will do great. I've always told the P.R. people on your board at WMTA how lucky they were to have you working for them. I'm sure you will do an amazing job on your own.<br /><br /><em>– Judy Loebl, Freelance Writer (formerly with The Oakland Press)</em><br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />As I pull my hair out in frustration over a press trip I'm currently trying to piece together, I am reminded once again of what a fantastic job you do and what a great service you provide to the media. <br /><br /><em>– Donna Marchetti - Editor, TheWineBuzz.com</em> <br /><br />* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *<br /><br />You're one of the best PR people I've ever met."<br /><br /><em>– Kelcey Carlson, Former morning anchor, WWMT Channel</em> <br /><br /><br /><br /><em>Updated February 2010</em>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-26432415255280198812010-01-15T14:54:00.000-08:002010-02-15T14:54:46.554-08:00Who is Dianna Stampfler of Promote MichiganDIANNA STAMPFLER has been referred to as one of the most motivated, energetic and passionate leaders in the tourism industry, with some 20 years of marketing, public relations and media relations experience. <br /><br />She launched Promote Michigan in August, 2004 and has successfully established herself as an independent marketing representative for an impressive list of clients including Traverse Tall Ship Company, The Homestead Resort, ShowSpan Inc. (including Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival, Michigan International Auto Show and Grand Rapids Boat Show), Michigan Apple Committee, Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds – Michigan and Michigan Brewer’s Guild. <br /><br />In January 2008, Dianna was named Executive Director of the Kent County Lodging Association. She also sits on the board of the Allegan County Tourist Council and the Ferris State University Hospitality Advisory Board, as well as being part of the inaugural committee establishing the Michigan Culinary Tourism Alliance.<br /><br />Dianna hosts two programs, Destination: West Michigan and West Michigan Weekend, on WAKV AM980 in Plainwell. Each month, she is a guest on Travel Talk with Shelley Irwin on WGVU Public radio and is a frequent guest on The Travel Queen Show, broadcast on the Michigan Talk Network and WOOD Radio in Grand Rapids.<br /><br />Her freelance writing appears in each issue of Michigan Blue Magazine. Over the years, she’s been published in Grand Rapids Magazine, Grand Rapids Family, Michigan Wine Country, Country Lines, Taster’s Guild International Journal, AAA Michigan Living, MiLifeMiTimes, Michigan Travel Ideas, Lake Michigan Travel Guide and Michigan Home Resource Guide. She’s also an established blogger, contributing to a handful of sites. <br /><br />Prior to launching her own consulting company, Dianna served as the marketing and media director for the West Michigan Tourist Association. During her seven years with WMTA, she developed the organization’s promotions department, garnering more than $3.5 million in accumulative media coverage for the association and its nearly 1000 member properties, events and communities. She has been referred to as a cheerleader for Michigan travel and tourism. Her most noted accomplishments were 2004 segments that aired on The Today Show and CBS-2 (Chicago). In October, 2003, the American Marketing Association ran a cover story in their monthly newsletter called “Take This Job, Love It!” which featured an interview with Dianna. <br /><br />From 1991 to 1997, Dianna was the community relations coordinator at Otsego Public Schools, also serving as the middle school student newspaper advisor and middle school chairperson for the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association at Michigan State University’s School of Journalism.<br /><br />During her college years at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Dianna worked at the Western Herald student newspaper as a copy editor and was also a news broadcaster at WQXC. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications & English w/emphasis in community journalism in 1991.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-16958648776391808632009-07-27T11:28:00.000-07:002009-07-27T11:39:23.466-07:00Something New...July 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUcg-0J9TItL18psv8gwh1xAOravZQN1NWFMrNLka96rsrfXSTVFI0zJ2hLk4HpxXoOSsM2NNi_eSy76paljZkl3wBnXykN2B7rD3BWNt2JiQpmDNPfbJw8MOX9xf_9eSsv8jvf7ESCE/s1600-h/DSC01594.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUcg-0J9TItL18psv8gwh1xAOravZQN1NWFMrNLka96rsrfXSTVFI0zJ2hLk4HpxXoOSsM2NNi_eSy76paljZkl3wBnXykN2B7rD3BWNt2JiQpmDNPfbJw8MOX9xf_9eSsv8jvf7ESCE/s200/DSC01594.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363211037344553474" /></a>In attempt to make up for the past six months, I will post entries backwards and share my latest "what's new" stories.<br /><br />July 2009 has been a VERY busy month. I've traveled hundreds of miles all over Michigan...from Ypsilanti (for the Michigan Summer Beer Fest) to Thompsonville (for a golf school refresher course at Crystal Mountain Resort) to the Garden Peninsula n the Upper Peninsula (home of Fayette State Park) and north to Marquette and the West Branch Sportsman's Club in Skandia.<br /><br />I can't go into too much detail here, as I was on assignment for the 2010 edition of Michigan Travel Ideas, but it was at the WBSC that I shot a firearm for the first time. The program, offered through the DNR's "Becoming and Outdoor Woman", introduced me and the group of ladies to the shotgun, rifle, pistol and bow/arrow. Skeet shoot was first on my list...and proudly, I hit 3 of 6. Then, on to pelting paper plates with two different .22 pistols...followed by bow/arrow (I took archery in college...so this wasn't new to me) and then finally, the rifle...again hitting the targets at least 50% of the time.<br /><br />For more on the program itself: <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/bow">www.michigan.gov/bow</a>.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-23855639347656809442009-06-27T12:12:00.000-07:002009-07-27T12:22:07.441-07:00Something New: June 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji23g1GTOXO8ON3_RfwjyWUsYxAXoeN1EdhvzozXJ70IdI5cwuOIM4kJ-zGLnKm7tTlhi4O1V8XM9Kkh7qymaAKLhG8w7DUp6cCFvb0SgW2e5errQwMrCZqjv5BUuWr93ATivOk6eVC38/s1600-h/4760_114500264749_754974749_2830336_1053421_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji23g1GTOXO8ON3_RfwjyWUsYxAXoeN1EdhvzozXJ70IdI5cwuOIM4kJ-zGLnKm7tTlhi4O1V8XM9Kkh7qymaAKLhG8w7DUp6cCFvb0SgW2e5errQwMrCZqjv5BUuWr93ATivOk6eVC38/s200/4760_114500264749_754974749_2830336_1053421_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363221626577184642" /></a>Two "something new" posts for June -- it's been a busy month. <br /><br />On June 26, I was part of a group participating in the "Dining on the Fly" program on the Boardman River, just south of Traverse City. A partnership between McCool Outdoor, The Boathouse Restaurant and Bowers Harbor Vineyard, this is a true Northern Michigan outdoor experience. We spent the afternoon on the river for a world-class fly fishing excursion, followed by a gourmet meal served under a white canopy along the banks of the trout stream, paired with a hand-chosen selection of award-winning wines. <br /><br />The one-of-a-kind day played out like this…<br /><br />The fly fishing:<br />Arrive at the fishing site and warm up with some champagne, while you meet your instructor, get fitted for your equipment and practice your cast. Certified Casting Instructor and Master Angler David McCool starts you off with some basic instruction – casting techniques, applied physics of a tight loop and entomology. <br /><br />David has taught hundreds of aspiring anglers the art and science behind the popular sport of fly fishing. You’ll enjoy a friendly, laid back experience with one of Northern Michigan’s best known and accomplished fly fishing instructors. Your outing includes the fundamentals of fly casting and fishing in a blue ribbon trout stream.<br /><br />Your instructors will work with you individually on your cast before putting you in the river to apply the skills you have learned. Walk against the current, mend your line, tease up a trout or two. After some time in the water, David will even coordinate some friendly competition casting games – with the winning team taking home a bottle of wine from Bowers Harbor Vineyards.<br /><br />The wining and dining: <br />After a perfect afternoon on the water, your blue ribbon adventure continues with an unparalleled dining experience prepared by Executive Chef Eric Nittolo of the Boathouse Restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula. Chef Eric will prepare a five-course gourmet meal along the shores of a breathtakingly beautiful trout stream. Chef Eric will contribute to the culinary experience by preparing the meal right in front of you, explaining and describing each component of the individual dishes. You will not only be eating great food, but you will also be able to watch and understand how each dish is prepared and how ingredients go together to create a rich upscale dining experience.<br /><br />Chef Eric’s cuisine is refined and contemporary with some classic French flare. His ability to pair food with one another with the use of ancient grains and modern gastronomy is truly what this experience is all about. The marriage of Chef Eric’s creative recipes and the finest fresh local ingredients is a grand culinary experience, raised to the level of art. <br /><br />Your dining experience is further enhanced by director of winemakng and proprietor of Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Spencer Stegenga. Spencer will teach you the viticulture of Old Mission Peninsula and explain each of his award-winning wines that will be paired with each of the five courses of your culinary experience.<br /><br />This 43-acre boutique estate winery’s proximity to the waters of Grand Traverse Bay creates ideal conditions for growing Vinifera grapes. Bowers Harbor Vineyards specializes in award-winning and estate Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir and Meritage blends. Situated on the 45th parallel in one of Michigan’s four federally-recognized viticultural regions, this second-generation cool climate vineyard produces dynamically expressive varietal wines. <br /><br />It doesn’t get much better than this…<br /><br />To reserve your Dining on the Fly date, call The Boathouse Restaurant at 231-223-4030 or for more information, log onto <a href="http://www.DiningOnTheFly.com">www.DiningOnTheFly.com</a>.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-37229422466498438702009-06-05T11:44:00.000-07:002009-07-27T11:55:11.350-07:00Something New...June 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCL3vdoC9p8g5wv1EFjXDR_s6IyiITH1r0-gh0p0sJOMXymQK1jNqC0QsWOF00kqA2z2jvZeNAbRGpRWdqQXGrqOlC-Y_98rowgt-003yi52pPjK8_ZhL-_g-ni0gULVQCE8Bh0Uetmg/s1600-h/typewriter.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCL3vdoC9p8g5wv1EFjXDR_s6IyiITH1r0-gh0p0sJOMXymQK1jNqC0QsWOF00kqA2z2jvZeNAbRGpRWdqQXGrqOlC-Y_98rowgt-003yi52pPjK8_ZhL-_g-ni0gULVQCE8Bh0Uetmg/s200/typewriter.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363215366473483490" /></a>A bittersweet something new this month...my first auction...at my grandmother's estate. <br /><br />After her passing in November (just days after her 90th birthday), the grandkids were asked to make a list of those items that held personal meaning and depending on value, those items were given to us. Among my treasures were a black cat salt/pepper shaker set, a deck of cards, a six-sided pie tin and several coffee cans full of rocks of all shapes, sizes and colors (which now line the patio of my new sidewalk in my backyard). <br /><br />On June 4, the items that held more actual value were auctioned off on the lawn outside my grandma's Otsego home. I had my eyes on a few things...most notably, an old typewriter -- which I snagged for $22. I also picked up a rustic table, which now graces my three-season porch; a pair of green shutters, which I turned into a barback type table for my patio; a pair of bamboo-like window blinds, which are now hanging in my garage; and a handful of other trinkets which bring back memories of my childhood at grandma's. Even my kids got involved, picking out items that they were attached to. I guess it was a form of closure. And now, I have all these pieces to remind me of what a great woman my grandmother was.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-9296822871297918252009-03-30T11:55:00.000-07:002009-07-27T12:07:09.553-07:00What's New...March 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxyC4YLFy3ssg-CDzqkNvc7WmXbFKWmW2t1giSIYhlZvS9MW5kkVk0H2ZUllX2jUn3ugEB4HlTAxghnZYqKV-cD3V93_uVxTwVd8xKVldZTTRfz3Lofe7Yl_87p71m9i-Twvpu32kGvM/s1600-h/DSC00803.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxyC4YLFy3ssg-CDzqkNvc7WmXbFKWmW2t1giSIYhlZvS9MW5kkVk0H2ZUllX2jUn3ugEB4HlTAxghnZYqKV-cD3V93_uVxTwVd8xKVldZTTRfz3Lofe7Yl_87p71m9i-Twvpu32kGvM/s200/DSC00803.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363216498497383698" /></a>They call it liquid sunshine...Michigan's oldest agricultural activity...maple sugaring. For years, I've written and promoted this activity, yet had never actually done it myself. So, in late March, I made the trek to Gaylord for a lesson. My guide -- none other than Scott Graham from Michigan Brewers Guild (yes...I knew he was a maker of beer...but didn't know until then that he was also a maker of maple syrup!). <br /><br />Several trees were already tapped by the time I arrived late in the month and Scott's daughter, Lily, was quick to show me where the trees were and how to empty the sap into a bucket, which would later be boiled down to make syrup. I was surprised how clear the liquid was -- expecting it to be the rich golden color of syrup. We trapsed from tree to tree, about a dozen in all, and then went around out back to pour all the sap into the "pot" to be boiled down. I did get the chance to "tap" one maple tree while there...although I was long gone by the time the sap started to flow. <br /><br />The Michigan Maple Syrup Association has compiled a list of facts, which might be of interest: <br /><br />Here are some facts and figures concerning Michigan Maple Syrup... <br />•Michigan ranks 6th in maple syrup production in the United States. <br />•Average maple syrup production in Michigan is about 90,000 gallons per year.<br />•Economic contributions of the pure maple syrup industry to Michigan are nearly $2.5 million annually.<br />•Maple syrup is a Michigan tourist benefit. It is a "thing" to buy.<br />•Maple syrup, as an agricultural commodity, benefits Michigan farm markets.<br />•There are an estimated 500 commercial maple syrup producers in Michigan with some 2,000 additional hobby or home use producers.<br />•Michigan law requires that processor of maple syrup must be licensed.<br />•The production of pure maple syrup is the oldest agricultural enterprise in the United States.<br />•Maple syrup is one of the few agricultural crops in which demand exceeds supply.<br />•Only about 1 percent of Michigan’s maple forest resource is used in maple syrup production.<br />•In an average year, each tap-hole will produce about 10 gallons of maple sap, enough for about a quart of pure Michigan maple syrup. <br />•Maple sap is a slightly sweet, colorless liquid.<br />•It takes approximately 40 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup. <br />•A gallon of standard maple syrup weighs 11 pounds and has a sugar content of 66 percent.<br />•Maple syrup is the first farm crop to be harvested in Michigan each year. <br />•Maple syrup is not the recipient of any crop support or subsidy programs.<br />•A maple tree needs to be about 40 years old and have a diameter of 10 inches before tapping is recommended.<br />•The maple season in Michigan starts in February in the southern counties and runs well into April in the Upper Peninsula. <br />•Warm sunny days and freezing nights determine the length of the maple season.<br />•The budding of maple trees makes the maple syrup taste bitter. Thus, production ceases.<br />•Freezing and thawing temperatures create pressure and force the sap out of the tree.<br />•A very rapid rise in temperature (25 to 45 degrees) will enhance the sap flow.<br />•While the sugaring season may last 6 to 10 weeks, but during this period, the heavy sap may run only 10-20 days. <br />•Average sugar concentration of maple sap is about 2.5 percent.<br />•Maple sap is boiled to remove the water and concentrate the sugars in a process called evaporation. <br />•In a conventional evaporator one cord of hard wood is required for every 25 gallons of syrup produced.<br />•Tubing collection systems with vacuum can increase average sap yields approximately 50 percent.<br />•Maple sap becomes maple syrup when boiled to 219 degrees Fahrenheit, or 7 degrees above the boiling point of water. <br />•Pure Michigan maple syrup has 50 calories per tablespoon and is fat-free. It has no additives, no added coloring and no preservatives.<br />•Maple syrup has may minerals per tablespoon: 20 milligrams of calcium, 2 milligrams of phosphorus, 0.2 milligrams of iron, 2 milligrams of sodium, 35 milligrams of potassium.<br />•Maple syrup is classified as one of nature's most healthful foods. <br />•Michigan has a Maple Queen, who is selected each January, statewide.<br />•Michigan has a Maple Syrup Week held in March of each year.<br />•Michigan is noted for having two maple syrup festivals.<br /><br />For more on Michigan maple sugaring: <a href="http://www.mi-maplesyrup.com">www.mi-maplesyrup.com</a>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-85083030279281849702009-01-19T08:31:00.000-08:002009-01-19T09:46:16.263-08:00Something New...January 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pFZScWv-lhJn1-TEZp4r4UE7cDa3TzINYgvZc1yVZQqgZjD4aLDcIN3lmtyplZwTn4RwqERoBJP7FEapK_F85zEUT8y2znSpHe8t8vY0Jvvu3-ZrCLxx5e5Bth72B-zgDvgSe4Kt2M4/s1600-h/DSC00618.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pFZScWv-lhJn1-TEZp4r4UE7cDa3TzINYgvZc1yVZQqgZjD4aLDcIN3lmtyplZwTn4RwqERoBJP7FEapK_F85zEUT8y2znSpHe8t8vY0Jvvu3-ZrCLxx5e5Bth72B-zgDvgSe4Kt2M4/s320/DSC00618.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293061961282413602" /></a>When I started this "try something new" resolution in 2004, I never expected it would become a lifestyle change...now going into my 6th year. But I'm LOVING it!! Some months, I put my life at risk (see January 2007 or July 2008) -- some months, I'm simply trying a new food or beverage -- some months I'm broadening my cultural horizons. But no matter what I'm doing -- I'm stepping outside my comfort zone to LIVE LIFE!<br /><br />So...January 2009...my "new" experience was a Beer Dinner ... during the Michigan Brewers Guild annual winter conference at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo. Now, I've attended many wine dinners over the years, but this was my first pairing for food with beer. I admit, I was skeptical. I mean, I'm only now just starting to enjoy beer by itself...how could I possibly be ready for beer with food? I was trusting the experts (the chefs at the Radisson and the brewers who make the beer). <br /><br /><strong>FIRST COURSE: IPA Steeamed Mussels with Sourdough, paired with <a href="http://www.jollypumpkin.com"><strong>Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales</strong></a> Calabaza Blanc. </strong><br /><br /><em>Yum...mussels was another new food for me. I was a bit apprehensive...but my pal Jon Piepenbrok from Arcadia Brewing settle my nerves and encouraged me along. For an ugly thing, they sure taste good. Swished around with a bit of that Calabaza Blanc...quite tasty, if you ask me.</em><br /><br /><strong>SECOND COURSE: Brewers Salad of Beefsteak Tomato, Shredded Pepperjack Cheese, Croutons & Lager Vinaigrette, paired with <a href="http://www.arcadiabrewingcompany.com"><strong>Arcadia Brewing Company</strong></a> Amber Ale. </strong><br /><br /><em>Double Yum...I could have eaten an entire chef's bowl of this salad. The pepperjack gave it a slight bite, which was offset by the Amber Ale (much like a Riesling to spicy foods...in my professional opinion). </em><br /><br /><strong>THIRD COURSE: Grilled Beef Tender with Beer Braised Wild Mushrooms and Cipollini Onions, Roasted Redskin Potatoes and Apsaragus, paired with <a href="http://www.newhollandbrew.com"><strong>New Holland Brewing Company</strong></a> Cabin Fever.</strong><br /><br /><em>Seconds...please? OMG...this was yummy...perfectly medium-rare to the rare (an 8-8.5 on my scale) and melt in your mouth good. Typically a brown ale is too much of a beer for me (just yet), but this pairing brought it within reach for me. I'm not quite ready to handle this by itself...but with food...definitely.</em><br /><br /><strong>FOURTH COURSE: Stout Flout with Vanilla Ice cream, paired with <a href="http://www.foundersbrewing.com"><strong>Founders Brewing Company</strong></a> Breakfast Stout.</strong><br /><br /><em>Now I call THAT dessert!! Again, by itself, this is too much beer for me (remember, I've been drinking beer for less than a year...see February 2008's posting). But, poured over a scoop of ice cream...I thought I died and went to heaven. In fact, I almost stole Piepenbrok's when he wasn't looking! I asked the guys at Founders if I could show up at their place with my own ice cream from now on...just to enjoy this wonderful dessert. I don't think they'd object. </em><br /><br />So that was my first beer dinner experience...an A in my book (although, to be fair, I think I'll have to go to a few more of these types of dinners in the near future to be totally objective)!<br /><br />As a footnote to the MBG conference...I've discovered a couple beers that have become favorites (my friends are all gasping at this point...because I used "favorite" and "beer" in the same sentence...talking about myself...YES...get over it!!). <br /><br />The first is Sky High Rye from <a href="http://www.arcadiabrewingcompany.com"><strong>Arcadia Brewing</strong></a>. Yes...I admit...I was drawn to the skydiver on the label (see July 2008). But after the first sip, I was hooked. In fact, I was pretty territorial when it came to this beer. Some nearly lost an arm when they tried to take my bottle from me! :) <br /><br />The second is Soft Parade from <a href="http://www.shortsbrewing.com"><strong>Short's Brewing</strong></a>. I haven't researched this much yet, but I do know it was very tasty (during dinner at Food Dance Cafe) with a beautiful color. I found it later at Shakespeare's. Still just as good! <br /><br />If you are interested in sampling these -- and hundreds of other Michigan craft beers -- I invite you to the Michigan Winter Beer Festival, February 28 at Fifth-Third Ballpark in Grand Rapids. Details are online at <a href="http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org">www.michiganbrewersguild.org</a>. Look for me when you get there...I'll hopefully have the Sky High Rye in one hand and Soft Parade in the other!<br /><br />CHEERS!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-76677167578241267162009-01-04T18:04:00.000-08:002009-01-19T14:58:45.351-08:002009 Michigan Milestone Celebrations<em>As we move into a new year, here are some milestones to keep track of to celebrate Michigan’s rich and diverse history.</em> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.chelsea-mi.com">City of Chelsea</a> – 175th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lansing.org">City of Lansing</a> - 150th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pawpaw.net">Village of Paw Paw</a> – 150th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.staffords.com">Stafford’s Perry Hotel</a> in Petoskey– 110th Anniversary (20th year for Stafford’s Hospitality) <br /><br /><a href="http://www.schulersrestaurant.com">Schuler’s Restaurant</a> in Marshall – 100th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.annarborartcenter.org">Ann Arbor Art Center</a> – 100th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.whirlpool.com">KitchenAid</a> (a product of Whirlpool) in Benton Harbor – 90th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.michigan.gov/dnr ">Michigan State Parks</a> – 90th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tuliptime.org ">Tulip Time Festival</a> in Holland – 80th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ellislakeresort.com ">Ellis Lake Resort</a> – 70th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.boyne.com">Boyne Mountain</a> in Boyne Falls – 60th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.houseofflavors.com ">House of Flavors</a> in Ludington – 60th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amway.com">Amway Corporation</a> in Ada – 50th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.motown50.com ">Motown</a> – 50th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.michigan.org ">The PINK Cadillac</a> – 50th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.tu.org ">Trout Unlimited </a>(founded in Grayling) – 50th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.michigan.org ">Riviera Resort</a> in Prudenville – 50th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.artfair.org ">Ann Arbor Street Art Fair </a>(the original) – 50th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.frankenmuth.org">City of Frankenmuth </a>– 50th Anniversary (incorporated…it was a village before) <br /><br /><a href="http://www.ci.wyoming.mi.us">City of Wyoming</a> (Kent County) – 50th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0052561 ">Anatomy of a Murder</a> (Movie) – 50th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.sculpturesitesgr.org">"La Grande Vitesse"</a> (Grand Rapids Calder) – 40th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.theride.org ">Ann Arbor Transit Authority</a> – 40th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.abragem.com ">Abracadabra Jewelry/Gem Gallery</a> in Ann Arbor – 35th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cgtwines.com">Chateau Grand Traverse</a> on Old Mission Peninsula - 35th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.airzoo.org ">Kalamazoo Air Zoo</a> – 30th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.visitupnorth.com ">Visit Up North Vacation Rentals</a>(Formerly Harris Properties) – 30th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.thehomesteadresort.com">The Homestead Resort</a> in Glen Arbor – 25th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.fennvillegoosefestival.com ">Goose Festival</a> in Fennville – 25th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.music.umich.edu ">University of Michigan Department of Musical Theatre</a> – 25th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.paesanosannarbor.com ">Paesano’s Restaurant & Wine Bar</a> in Ann Arbor – 25th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.midlandcvb.org ">Midland County CVB</a> – 25th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.coopersvilleandmarne.org">Coopersville & Marne Railway</a> – 20th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.bayshore-resort.com ">Bayshore Resort</a> in Traverse City – 15th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.peninsulacellars.com">Peninsula Cellars</a> on Old Mission Peninsula - 15th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kingbrewing.info">King Brewing</a> in Pontiac - 15th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blackstarfarms.com">Black Star Farms</a> in Suttons Bay - 10th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cherrytreecondohotel.com">Cherry Tree Inn & Suites</a> in Traverse City – 10th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.marriott.com">Fairfield Inn by Marriott </a>in Traverse City – 10th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.thechophouserestaurant.com">The Chop House</a> in Ann Arbor – 10th Anniversary <br /><br /><a href="http://www.wsg-art.com ">Washington Street Gallery</a> in Ann Arbor – 10th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.schmohz.com">Schmohz Brewing</a> in Grand Rapids - 5th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.keweenawbrewing.com">Keweenaw Brewing</a> in South Range - 5th Anniversary<br /><br /><a href="http://www.shortsbrewing.com">Shorts Brewing</a> in Bellaire - 5th AnniversaryDianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-91600761070824045652008-12-18T12:04:00.000-08:002008-12-18T12:37:13.127-08:00WHAT'S NEW: December 2008I am a long-time fan of the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. For some time, I've admired his work from afar -- always reading articles and such about his works. <br /><br />I recently completed a novel called <a href="http://www.nancyhoran.com">Loving Frank by Nancy Horan</a>, which has set my fascination for this modern marvel into a full-blown addiction. This romantic love story is about Frank's adulterous relationship with Mamah Borthwick Cheney, whom he met after building a house for her and her husband, Edwin. Full of romance and tragedy and all things that a love story should have, it inspired me to believe that true love does exist -- even if it extends beyond the traditional confines of marriage.<br /><br />After completing the novel, I bought and watched the <a href="http://www.pbs.org/flw/">Ken Burns PBS </a>documentary about FLW (who was actually born Frank Lincoln Wright...his middle name was changed to Lloyd after his parents divorce when he was a young child). This furthered my infatuation with this genius. From there, I purchased other books...including his autobiography. <br /><br />Then, I figured it was time to actually set foot inside one of his magnificent works of art...something I couldn't believe I had never done before. In Grand Rapids, Michigan you will find one of the most amazingly restored FLW works -- the Meyer May House. Commissioned in 1908, begun in 1909 and completed in 1910, it was purchased in the 1980s by Steelcase and restored back to its original state. Frank was know for his simplistic approach -- no clutter, no extra frills -- which creates an ultimate grandeur that cannot be explained. After touring the home for nearly an hour, I was almost heartbroken to have to leave. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that a docent class -- for those who want to volunteer to work offering tours -- was going to be offered in early 2009 -- and I immediatley put my name on the list. I also volunteered to help in any way with the upcoming centennial celebration. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78HqI_qkLjh3_jNEfcgt9IBbUnuhraF-zysCO9UxwEkMRwbQ0x_Sak_NwRVztzBb9CfDnhKxjx2mbiimPFYmLDqf0tR0jVql-ZEc1E0tCzdwPCwKG-XMOqTPRlb6dXGHZDg9CwVw5nPo/s1600-h/meyer+may.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 110px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78HqI_qkLjh3_jNEfcgt9IBbUnuhraF-zysCO9UxwEkMRwbQ0x_Sak_NwRVztzBb9CfDnhKxjx2mbiimPFYmLDqf0tR0jVql-ZEc1E0tCzdwPCwKG-XMOqTPRlb6dXGHZDg9CwVw5nPo/s400/meyer+may.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281231793543607810" /></a><br /><br />Touring Meyer May only fueled the fire. I made an inquiry to Michigan History Magazine about doing an article on the centennial for an upcoming issue. I have considered myself a professional writer since 1985 -- when I was a columnist and repoter for a local newspaper -- while still in high school. After majoring in journalism, writing for various publications and teaching journalism, I consider my career to be very solid. Yet -- one of those "dreams" is to have an article published in Michigan History Magazine. And, having one on a topic so important as Frank Lloyd Wright's Meyer May House is even more exciting. The editors were warm to the idea (but also interested in another pitch I made...about an article on the 2009 centennial of Schuler's Restaurant in Marshall). <br /><br />While in Kalamazoo this week, I decided to drive through Parkwyn Village -- a neighborhood that was commissioned by FLW in the 1940s (about the same time as one developed in nearby Galesburg -- which I have yet to visit). There was enough snow on the ground that it made it hard to really see how they fit into the natural landscape. I can't wait to go back in the summer...to see the houses and their gardens. From there, it was down to the Kalamazoo Public Library to see what kind of news clips they had about this development. It was quite interesting that when I approached the help desk in the Local History Room, the assistant there had the very files I wanted on her desk...because someone else had inquired about the same information. I guess I'm not the only one who is fascinated. <br /><br />In May -- to celebrate my 40th birthday -- I will be headed to Oak Park, Illinois to visit 8 FLW buildings -- including his home and studio. From there, I'll head up to Racine to the Johnson Wax building...and then over to Taliesen -- Frank's famed home that was built for Mamah (and where she tied tragically with her two children and several of their hired hands). I expect it to be an inspiring pilgramage.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-51670588947366152762008-11-25T12:39:00.000-08:002008-12-18T13:22:08.612-08:00WHAT'S NEW: November 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4EOyE8SRRlJDYZxw1ZuHK2tvtqsZfInrqPOaI2TK1y8Wjt1aHkitnFBruU1FZe9tBbJaTimj3D4Vgm09l5DZWlvys6CfuSAsjkCydM9IFD7-NeNkW66ays_YQmKMVR2mtdN8bQVrbbA/s1600-h/DSC05364.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4EOyE8SRRlJDYZxw1ZuHK2tvtqsZfInrqPOaI2TK1y8Wjt1aHkitnFBruU1FZe9tBbJaTimj3D4Vgm09l5DZWlvys6CfuSAsjkCydM9IFD7-NeNkW66ays_YQmKMVR2mtdN8bQVrbbA/s200/DSC05364.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281243132898025586" /></a>This is something new that I could have gone my whole life without doing -- yet I also feel very proud to have been able to do it. <br /><br />On November 12, my grandmother passed away -- just three days after her 90th birthday. Her funeral was on Sunday, November 16 and I was one of four granddaughters to speak during the service. I consider myself a professional public speaker...yet nothing can prepare you for the emotional experience of addressing a church full of family and friends to share your thoughts about one of the most inspiring people in your life -- after they have been taken away from you. <br /><br />Donna McDonald was born November 9, 1918 -- a twin with Dorothy (who passed away two years ago). They married brothers, both becoming part of the Knight family...and what a family it is. Our branch of the family tree includes 5 children (and spouses), 14 grandchildren (and spouses) and 23 great-grandchildren (ranging in age from 2 to 18). We hover around 60 for family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Easter (my grandmother's three favorite holidays). <br /><br />There are several things that will always remind me of my grandma: cardinals, cards, Easter lilies, the color purple, frog legs, pumpkin pie, puzzles, vine ripe tomotoes, rhubarb, bowling, post offices, Otsego Methodist Church, Beaver Island Lighthouse, the Mackinac Bridge. <br /><br />Beyond all the physical things, I will remember my grandma for her passion for life, her infectious smile, her determination and drive, and her positive attitude. Over the years, she battled cancer -- been in a serious automobile accident -- had knee replacement surgery, twice I think. But she never let it get her down. She had too much to do...to much to see...to be laid up with injuries and illnesses. <br /><br />I like to think that in inhereted my passion for life from my grandmother -- along with my love of travel and eating out at a variety of restaurants. I remember telling her about my various travels and hearing about hers (she visited nearly every state in the country, every province in Canada and several countries). I often think, as I'm trying a new restaurant, that it might be something she'd like. In fact, the night after she passed away...we all went out to dinner and several people ordered frog legs (but, strangely enough, no one got the liver and onions) in her honor.<br /><br />Thanksgiving...just a few weeks after grandma passed...was very difficult. I expect Christmas Eve next week to be equally as rough to get through...especially since we're gathering in her house (the only place big enough for all of us). I'm sure the memories of us all togehter last year -- when we all knew it would be her last -- will be very close to my heart. But, by taking a cue from grandma...I will put on a smile, think about the positive and move forward -- because life is too short for regrets and negative thoughts. <br /><br />Happy Holidays!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-55285561702191713052008-10-08T13:22:00.000-07:002008-12-18T14:35:39.052-08:00WHAT'S NEW: October 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fzm8eUk4CwQ1W0fTGH0KR8sXnEagqK9QrRv6fzgrOkWBFQf90N0cnQvrXATWFEzCSFKX3VvVqMJxOqshanbS4O4VA6O-6_Xj2hX6-FjHFmlcTA0UTqK2-J30Wt5hfNeo3FkV5Vmd6bU/s1600-h/DSC09811.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fzm8eUk4CwQ1W0fTGH0KR8sXnEagqK9QrRv6fzgrOkWBFQf90N0cnQvrXATWFEzCSFKX3VvVqMJxOqshanbS4O4VA6O-6_Xj2hX6-FjHFmlcTA0UTqK2-J30Wt5hfNeo3FkV5Vmd6bU/s200/DSC09811.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281262032900208658" /></a>I have been researching Michigan lighthouses for several years, gathering information about their history and stories about their keepers. One of Michigan's most secluded beacons is the Little Traverse Lighthouse in Harbor Springs. I saw it from the water once, many years ago...but I recently had the opportunity to tour it thanks to the Harbor Springs Historical Society. I had the pleasure of speaking to this group about "Ladies of the Lights" during their annual lighthouse tour weekend. <br /><br />The first keeper at the Little Traverse Lighthouse was Elizabeth Whitney VanRiper Williams. Prior to that, she was keeper at St. James Harbor Light at Whiskey Point and is one of the pioneer female keepers in the Midwest -- and perhaps the entire United States.<br /><br />Taking the trolley through the gated community of Harbor Point was a step back in history. These amazing "cottages" have ties to some of the most noted millionaire families such as Wrigley Offield, scion of the chewing gum clan; Elton MacDonald, creator of Plaid Stamps, and Frederick S. Ford, a director of Libbey-Owens-Ford Glass. <br /><br />Located on a point that juts out into Little Traverse Bay, near Harbor Springs, not even automobiles are allowed here. Residents park in a lot at the entrance, and make their way to their cottages via horse and buggy, that makes a circle of the area every 15 minutes. There are some 70 homes on the point, all with beautifully manicured lawns and a wealth of history. While traveling to the lighthouse, tourers are prohibited from taking photographs of the homes -- a strict rule enforced by the Harbor Point Association. It's the stuff movies are made of!! <br /><br />If I were to live in a lighthouse, I think Little Traverse would be among my choices. I love the brickwork and the detail around the roofline. The layout of the house is ideal...with lots of space (more than it appears by looking at it from the outside). I think I would be very comfortable there...watching the ships coming in and out of the harbor and soaking up the breathtaking sunsets. I'd cherish the opportunity to walk down the tree-covered streets back to Harbor Springs, for dinner at one of the finest restuarants in the state. I'd make regular visits to the library and museums -- taking in their great programs. Yes...I think I would be very comfortable there...in my dream world!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-59895620795680594232008-09-18T13:44:00.000-07:002008-12-18T14:30:53.841-08:00WHAT'S NEW: September 2008<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhouzH9AMIKAGEHnrYEZy1hFYJwoNMn4pEz9yvjWSIOVVFBsiekJmT8ljtnuHGMfUXPnHM-PwReZTnrX3cB6d6N21nPZfernDOuZlrc0DtwSRb12i_WbAFudbSvq7ZGplADZfDAleuzwvU/s1600-h/DSC09750.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhouzH9AMIKAGEHnrYEZy1hFYJwoNMn4pEz9yvjWSIOVVFBsiekJmT8ljtnuHGMfUXPnHM-PwReZTnrX3cB6d6N21nPZfernDOuZlrc0DtwSRb12i_WbAFudbSvq7ZGplADZfDAleuzwvU/s200/DSC09750.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281261103297663858" /></a><br />I'm a big supporter of Michigan wines...Rieslings in particular. So, when given the opportunity to visit the Finger Lakes region of New York ... another excellent Riesling region ... I was so excited. My step-mom was headed that way to attend a fiber show, and she invited me to ride along. Additionally, my dad had prepared a list of genealogical items that he needed research. Wine and research...two of my favorite things. <br /><br />The eight-ten hour trip brought us into Geneseo County -- the left ring finger of the "Finger Lakes" region. While my step-mom worked her booth at the county fairgrounds, I went in search of libraries, museums, cemeteries and other historic sites. With pen and paper in hand (and a roll of dimes and quarters for the microfilm and copy machines), I dug in trying to fill in gaps in the family tree. I searched through archives, and platt books. I read through newspaper archives. I took photos of no-longer existing communities, walked through rows of gravestones at the cemetery and finally met up with a group of local historians at a town hall and found some interesting family references in old school attendance logs. <br /><br />I wish my search for wine has been as successful as the family history. Turns out that the best lakes in the region for the wine trails are on the right hand...miles and miles away. There were two new wineries in the area -- but by the time I got done at the libraries, they were closed. We did find a great restaurant which served local wine -- Dr. Frank's -- which was so impressive, we ate there two nights in a row. <br /><br />All in all, the trip did whet my appetite to tour the entire region some day -- maybe in 2009?!?!?!Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-70469272581755747872008-08-25T14:36:00.000-07:002008-12-18T14:47:09.819-08:00WHAT'S NEW: August 2008Yeah...how does one surpass skydiving on the "what's new" list? I'm still flying high afer that experience. Truth be told, I'm half thinking I'd like to do it again!! <br /><br />This month, I did get to go to a concert for a band I've never seen before. Steely Dan performed at DTE in Clarkston on August 15...and I had the pleasure of enjoying this fine show with a great friend...who happened to be celebrating his birthday the day after! I think I found just as much pleasure in watching him enjoy the show -- given that it is his favorite band (and thus the reason I extended the invitation to go...not knowing at the time that it was is birthday). I admit, I didn't know as many songs as I thought -- given that many of the traditional "top 40" songs weren't played. But it was a warm summer night, sitting on the hillside grass, with good tunes and great company. <br /><br />Later in the month, I was back in SE Michigan for the Meadowbrook Wine Festival. Another scorcher of a day, it was relaxing to walk between booths sampling wines (including many of my Michigan favorites from Black Star Farms, Chateau Chantal, St. Julian and Fenn Valley). It was a great research trip too...as I gathered ideas for the <a href="http://www.grwinefestival.com">Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival</a>, which is coming up in November. <br /><br />All and all...a pretty low key month...but like I said, having made a jump out of plane from 2000 feet LAST month, I think I'm entitled.Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1779893407223902735.post-65695891223807609482008-07-14T16:44:00.000-07:002008-12-18T15:46:16.148-08:00YES...I DID IT!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Sq4_YVaXzGcFc8bKR_4ZJfjjhgYqzpgqQilA5E92ckvxSPcWEw2QNCCcWIP9qLu1NwY6soDE5AvygpcLdvMqcgyYfw0aCVSSZV4pJDbXOpOp60q0WLIATPyWKHchqjKIIY1D7artqQk/s1600-h/skydive.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Sq4_YVaXzGcFc8bKR_4ZJfjjhgYqzpgqQilA5E92ckvxSPcWEw2QNCCcWIP9qLu1NwY6soDE5AvygpcLdvMqcgyYfw0aCVSSZV4pJDbXOpOp60q0WLIATPyWKHchqjKIIY1D7artqQk/s400/skydive.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223022328215344242" /></a><br /><br />In the three years that I've been trying something new every month, nothing COMES CLOSE to my latest endeavor. On Saturday, July 12, 2008, I jumped out of a plane 11,000 feet in the sky and floated to the ground. It was part of the Save the Ta-Tas event that <a href="http://www.premier-skydiving.com">Premier Skydiving</a> in Fremont hosted. <br /><br />WHAT A RUSH!!! Let me tell you, when the door to the plane opens at 11,000 feet and you feel that cold air rush in, you immediately think WHAT THE HELL AM I DOING UP HERE. As I crawled out the door to stand on the runner I was scared to death…but that went away in a heartbeat because I was in free-fall so quickly…it wasn’t long before we pulled the chute and were under canopy floating to ground for about 5 minutes (I’m guessing…I don’t recall HOW long it was from start to finish…I lost all track of time!)<br /><br />A video is coming soon…and I’ll forward that link along as soon as possible.<br /><br />Thanks to all of you who made pledges – which were donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation (appx $500 from my friends/family/colleagues alone). <br /><br />I also want to thank Bill and Amy Schram and their crew at Premier Skydiving … especially Dennis Bennett who was the leading champion in getting me out there to push the limits and add by far the most extreme thing to my list of “something new every month.” <br /><br />I appreciate you all welcoming me into your skydiving family with open arms – wide open!!<br /><br />TO VIEW THE PICTURES: <a href="http://www.flick.com/promotemichigan">www.flickr.com/promotemichigan</a>Dianna - Promote Michiganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00416719930005977153noreply@blogger.com2