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  • All things Canada: Poutine, Music, Beer and Red Green at Canadiana Fest Sept. 21 in Kalamazoo

    All things Canada: Poutine, Music, Beer and Red Green at Canadiana Fest Sept. 21 in Kalamazoo
    2024/09/14
    Canadiana Fest Podcast

    Celebrating the culture, food, music and art of our neighbor to the north in Downtown Kalamazoo Michigan. September 21, 2024 at the Arcadia Creek Festival Site!


    Amy and Gonzo interview event coordinator Channon Mondoux, originally from Windsor, who goes behind the scene of this year's event after they recorded the show segment (which aired Sept. 14-15, 2024). During the podcast she reveals that Pelee Island Winery is the official wine, and, as a chef, she is excited to serve Peameal Bacon - "real Canadian bacon." They will have curling and lacrosse, as well as First Nation entertainers. A Poutine Passport. Authentic country Scottish dancing and more. She calls the all-day event a chance to visit Canadian Disneyland!

    Joining them on the Podcast is Taylor Abfall, who is the Marketing & Communications Coordinator of Discover Kalamazoo, which is one of the big supporters of Canadiana Fest.

    Get more information at wmta.org.

    Or at canadianfest.fun.

    Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.
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    10 分
  • S6,E36: Respect Marquette County Coalition making a difference; Leave No Trace (Sept. 7-8, 2024)

    S6,E36: Respect Marquette County Coalition making a difference; Leave No Trace (Sept. 7-8, 2024)
    2024/09/11
    On Behind the Mitten, we love to take you to special spots all around Michigan. We always hope that you'll find new favorite places to visit, or remember a favorite spot that you just have to get back to. We believe that travel is amazing, and want to make sure that our gorgeous Michigan destinations stay that way for all future visitors.

    Our friends in Marquette completely agree, and as a community, they've come together as a formal group to "inspire locals and visitors alike to respect the local culture and natural resources of Marquette County." The initiative is known as Respect Marquette County and it is the focus of this episode of BTM.

    We kick off the show with Susan Estler from Travel Marquette one of the main sponsors for this initiative, as well as Sven Gonstead, from the Marquette County Planning and Recreation/Big Bay Stewardship Council. The sharp increase in tourism throughout the Upper Peninsula during the pandemic brought many new visitors to the area, which also brought more natural resource destruction and misuse. Through education, the coalition hopes to make visitors more aware of using resources smartly and sustainably.

    Tyler Penrod, the Great Lakes Climate Core program manager for the Superior Watershed Partnership stops by to share some good news for electric vehicle drivers. His group has recently expanded the availability of charging stations throughout the U.P., in addition to their many other important projects. Tyler shares how important it is to maintain proper trail etiquette, including new-to-us knowledge that you've got to go through the puddles people, not around. Muddy boots are a sign of authenticity in MQT.

    Lyn Durant who is the Marquette Township Supervisor shares a few more tips and tricks from the Leave No Trace initiative, which encompasses seven different principles. Planning ahead, visiting during quieter times, and letting friends know where you'll be can all make for a better adventure if something goes wrong. Following the trails, packing everything you bring in back out, and leaving nature the way you found it are more tips to track. Wildlife is awesome to see, but let them be, and from a safe distance, please. If you bring your own animal on the trail with you, please manage them accordingly, and pack out that pet waste too.

    Finally, Hannah Boyd, the communications manager for the Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy joins us. The Conservancy, which has over 6500 acres of land in the U.P., has several protected tracts of land in Marquette County, and Hannah shares a few of her favorite hikes to take in the area. She also talks about what makes this community special, and other fun things to do when you visit.

    Big thanks to Kognisjon Bryggeri for hosting our recording session, we appreciate the hospitality.

    Follow John and Amy:
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten
    Twitter at @BehindTheMitten
    Instagram at @BehindTheMitten
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    45 分
  • S6,E35: Muskegon Irish Music Festival, Luge and Adventure Sports Park, and Art Museum expansion (Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 2024)

    S6,E35: Muskegon Irish Music Festival, Luge and Adventure Sports Park, and Art Museum expansion (Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 2024)
    2024/09/03
    On this episode of Behind the Mitten, Gonzo and Amy visit marvelous Muskegon, a historic city nestled on the shores of lady Lake Michigan that offers different types of adventures for everyone, including some with a decidedly Gaelic twist to them.We start the show off by highlighting the Michigan Irish Music Festival, which is happening this September 12 through the 15th at Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon. Celebrating 25 years, this is the premier Irish music festival for the entire mid-west, drawing incredible international musical acts, artistic performers, arts and crafts, Irish dancing, and tastes of the "old country". We have on Kris Vanderstelt, Vice President, and volunteer coordinator for the fest to share what's new for 2024, what not to miss, and insider tips on how to make the most of your festival experience. Tickets are on sale now, and we highly recommend you plan ahead for this very popular event.Speaking of volunteers, it takes a lot of them to make the festival run smoothly, so if you are interested in helping out, please contact our next guest. Jim Rudicil, the Executive Director of the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park is also in charge of parking volunteers for the Michigan Irish fest, which is truly a community endeavor. He'll also share all the amazing things you can do at the Luge park, which is located inside Muskegon State Park. This fall they'll be hosting "HIke the Lights" where you can walk Michigan's longest-lit hiking trail right along the shore, and get up close and personal with the dunes. Plus, did you know you can do a dual zip line here? True story.The Muskegon Museum of Art, founded in 1912, is known throughout the Midwest as having one fine collection, and we think its stellar reputation is about to get even better if that's possible. Kirk Hallman, Director, shares with us the exciting news about their $15 million expansion that is set to open in February 2025. The Muskegon community has been working on this since 2018, and the addition will feature a huge new gallery which will allow the museum to bring in bigger shows and exhibitions for all to enjoy. Lashelle Mikesell, Digital Media and Marketing Coordinator for Visit Muskegon then stops by to share other fall activities to enjoy in this neck of the woods. She recommends catching the end of a few art exhibits at the museum, including a quilt exhibit that is ending at the of September, and a jewelry exhibit that is showing through the end of 2024. For fall, Muskegon is awash in fun festivals, find a complete listing of events in the area here. Lashelle recommends the self-guided leaf peeping tour you can follow called "Depot to Depot". The route takes you from Muskegon South Pierhead Light to the White River Light Station in Whitehall. You'll be able to catch some incredible views, while also getting some nice little deals from local businesses. She'll tell us just where to go for this fun event that you can do on your own time.With three state parks, miles of multi-use trails, two major paddle sport rivers, and 26 miles of beaches, Muskegon County is the outdoor recreation hub of Michigan's sunset coast, every season of the year.Affiliates:*8 a.m. Saturdays on WBRN - 1460 AM and 107.7 FM in Big Rapids*8 a.m. Saturdays on Kalamazoo Talk Radio 1360 WKMI*8 a.m. Saturdays on WILS-1320 AM in Lansing9 a.m. Saturdays on 92.1 Grand Haven's Favorite, WGHN-FM*10 a.m. Saturdays 95.3 WBCK-FM in Battle Creek*10 a.m. Saturdays on News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM in Benton Harbor*4 p.m. Saturdays on WIOS "The Bay's Best!" - 1480 AM & 106.9 FM in Tawas / East Tawas*7 a.m. Sundays on the following Black Diamond Broadcasting stations:-WCFX - CFX Today's Hits (95.3) in Mt. Pleasant-WGFN - Classic Rock The Bear (98.1 & 95.3) in Traverse City-WMRX - Sunny 97.7 in Midland-WUPS - The Classic Hits Station (98.5) in Houghton Lake-WWMK - 1063 MAC FM in Cheboygan*Noon Saturdays and 8 am Sundays on News, Talk and Sports - 1380-AM WPHM Radio.*1 p.m. Sundays on WSGW-AM (790) and FM (100.5) in Saginaw*6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM (1300) and FM (106.9) in Grand RapidsFollow John and Amy:Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemittenTwitter at @BehindTheMittenInstagram at @BehindTheMitten
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    45 分
  • S6,E34: Where in Michigan is Germfask, and why is it a gem? (Aug. 24-25, 2024)

    S6,E34: Where in Michigan is Germfask, and why is it a gem? (Aug. 24-25, 2024)
    2024/08/27
    We hope you'll tune in this weekend, as we are coming straight at you from a slow-down-you-might-miss-it spot in Upper Peninsula, charming Germfask.


    We've been known to stop any time of day at Tovey's Jolly Inn because you can get a burger for breakfast, or lunch, or dinner. We'll talk with Damian Tovey about his historic bar located right on HWY 77, his claim to making the best cheesesteak in the state, and a possible supernatural guest that visits the Jolly on the regular.


    Can you believe that you can go wine tasting in the Yoop? True story! We visit with the owners of End of the Road Winery, Robin and Jim. We love it when people find a whole new calling in life, which is exactly what is going on here. We had the best time at this super cute place, that really is at the very end of the road, so remember to KEEP GOING.


    AND......we get to meet this charming fellow at Northland Outfitters Campground & Canoe / Kayak Livery ......the amazing Bennie the Beardfisher. Commissioned by new owners Levi and Duree, who have their own amazing story to share, Bennie was created by international artist Thomas Dambo, and has turned into quite the destination. Pro tip: you can camp here, stay in one of their cute cottages, kayak down the Manistique River from here, and check out the adorable tchotchkes at the gift shop. It is well worth a visit!


    Home to 490 people, named after its four original founders, don't miss out. It's Germfask baby, and it's fantastic.
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    45 分
  • Blackrocks partners with NMU for 'Wildcat Gold' lager (Aug. 23, 2024)

    Blackrocks partners with NMU for 'Wildcat Gold' lager (Aug. 23, 2024)
    2024/08/23
    When you turn 125 years old you best do something special. Our friends at Northern Michigan University in Marquette decided to do just that to celebrate this incredible anniversary of Wildcat pride, collaborating with Blackrock Brewery to create a special commemorative beer, Wildcat Gold.

    "NMU is thrilled to team up with Marquette's own Blackrocks Brewery to launch Wildcat Gold—a special brew crafted by alumni, for alumni! This exclusive beer is a golden celebration of our rich history, dedicated to the Wildcat spirit that unites us all," says a post on NMU's social media.

    We recently had Andy Langlois, David Manson, and Steve Farr from Blackrocks on to talk about this special release. It's a beer that is near and dear to Andy and Steve's hearts, as they are both alumni of NMU. Poor Dave, he can only shout from the sidelines "Go Green, Go White". Dave, no worries, you might not be golden, but you're still a cool Sparty.



    Let’s raise a glass together to toast to 125 incredible years of Northern pride. Wildcat Gold will be released August 23, and can only be found at this time at Blackrocks in Marquette, and certain sporting events at Northern. Wildcat Gold may also show up at exclusive alumni events over the next few months, so if you are a Wildcat, make plans to attend.


    Shown are NMU Alumni Steve Farr ’09 BS, ’12 MBA, and Andy Langlois ’95 BS from Blackrocks Brewery, thanks for putting this great collab together with NMU.


    #WildcatGold #NMU125 #AlumniPride #Marquette #alwaysNMU #shareNMU
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    10 分
  • S6,E33: It's back-to-school time! Trips to CMU, Western, Michigan and Michigan State (Aug. 17-18, 2024)

    S6,E33: It's back-to-school time! Trips to CMU, Western, Michigan and Michigan State (Aug. 17-18, 2024)
    2024/08/22
    We are back to school this week! Our young Michiganders are headed back to the classroom this week, and back to college campuses, which is both exciting and sad.

    It's exciting if you are a student and finally back home at school with friends, exciting if you are a business that is ready to serve, and exciting if you are a tourism bureau welcoming visitors.

    But it's sad if you are a momma sending two kids back to campus, which Amy is doing this year, and probably for the last time. Gonzo has already traversed this road with his boys, so he gets it too. So very exciting, so very sad.

    College towns came back alive this week as students streamed in, so we went right to some of our most popular spots here in the mitten: Mt. Pleasant, Kalamazoo, East Lansing and Ann Arbor. We kick off the show and get FIRED UP in Mt. Pleasant, where Gonzo attended Central Michigan University. If you are a fellow Chip, then you know The Bird, one of the most popular places in town. We talk to Ben Breidenstien, who co-owns the bar with his family. Stop by here to sidle up at the bar next to a professor, while a family enjoys a pizza nearby. Ben and Gonzo agree, it is THE spot to be in Mt. Pleasant.

    Next, we head to Kalamazoo, home to both Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Together, these schools offer a degree program that we can really support. Did you know you can actually get a degree in beer here in the mitten? True story, if you go through the dual program that they offer at WMU and KVCC. We talk with our good friend Aaron Ross, formerly of Mitten Brewing Company, current instructor at KVCC in the brewing program. He explains how this two and two program works, what students learn, and how everyone can come to Kalamazoo this fall to taste the beer.

    At this point, we got hungry, so we called our buddy Keith Mckendry in Ann Arbor up. He makes what just might be the very best cheesesteaks in the state at his uber popular spot, Mr. Spots. Yes, he gives us the low down on those beauties which a certain famous former pro football player, and U of M alum, loves. He also gives us his thoughts on the Wolverines chances this season. Our thoughts? Doesn't matter the win/loss record when you are eating one of these cheesesteaks.

    One last stop in East Lansing, where we catch up with fellow journalist Chris Solari. His Detroit Free Press beat is the Michigan State Spartans football team, so we talk x's and o's. Chris got so excited that we were going to ask him about something other than football that we just went with it, and he shares many of his favorite places to hang out at in East Lansing, including The Peanut Barrel, which we just love.

    Follow John and Amy:
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten
    Twitter at @BehindTheMittenI
    nstagram at @BehindTheMitten
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    45 分
  • S6,E32: South Haven

    S6,E32: South Haven
    2024/08/15
    This week takes us to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, as we do a little road trip to Saugatuck and South Haven. We'll take you out on the water, do some shopping, talk to three blondes who brew, and meet up with some fine friends who are cooking up greatness at their very own restaurant finally. We'll even tell you about the most fantastic saltine crackers we've ever had. Intrigued? Here's more:

    We'll start off at a cute little spot nestled downtown Saugatuck on the shores of the Kalamazoo River. Retro Boat Rentals offers up the sweetest little boats that you can take out, on your own, to cruise around and see Saugatuck from the water. Brightly colored 50's-style little cruisers will make you feel like a vintage movie star, while the donut boats can be packed with friends to bob along with. There are pontoons too, and all the boats have been retrofitted and are electric, so you'll hum along in silence, able to absorb all the sites and sounds of Saugatuck. Grab a beer or a cocktail afterward on their sunny deck to prolong your enjoyment.

    Next, our friends from LuLu Cadiuex come by and share that they are expanding into a new space in downtown Saugatuck. While their cooking school remains on Blue Star Highway, they'll be moving their store downtown. This is the place to find all sorts of fun things for your home, from table linens to dishes and cookware, to a stacked array of cookbooks. Amy is a big fan of snooping around here and seeing what she might find, from cool clothes to great gifts.

    Just a few minutes farther down the shore lies South Haven, another beachside gem. During the busy summer time it can be hard to find parking downtown, so we head outside of this bustling area and go straight to Three Blondes Brewing. Located very close to the highway exit, this fun spot is easy to get, and always has a cold beer waiting for you. We talk with Amanda Johnson, one of the three blondes brewing.

    Finally, we reconnect with some friends who have been making their dreams come true and we couldn't be prouder. Meredith Sherrod owns The Lodge, an absolute banger of a restaurant, bar, and hang-out located just a bit outside of downtown SH. She and her business partner Erica Degrandchamp worked together for years at Captain Lou's, and finally made their dream of owning their very own restaurant a reality when they purchased local spot The Curve. A few years later, this remodeled space features an incredible menu, from their scratch kitchen, all run by these two best friends.

    Now about those crackers.....find them at The Lodge. Have them with pimento cheese dip. Thank us later.

    Follow John and Amy:
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten
    Twitter at @BehindTheMitten
    Instagram at @BehindTheMitten
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    45 分
  • Sault Ste. Marie Tower of History Full Podcast (Aug. 6, 2024)

    Sault Ste. Marie Tower of History Full Podcast (Aug. 6, 2024)
    2024/08/06
    Each visit to I Love Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan unveils new things to do, places to visit, and always new Michigan history to learn. This trip was no different.

    Absolute highlight? Meeting the one and only Paul Sabourin, the curator at the Tower of History, part of the Sault Historic Sites group of museums. Not only do you get a banger of a view from the tallest spot in the Soo, but you might also get to meet this guy, who will regale you with historical facts and stories, might throw down in three languages, and will definitely instill a love for all the history in this area, just by his infectious nature.

    Learn more about the Tower of History at Sault Historic Sites at saulthistoricsites.com.

    Follow John and Amy:
    Website: amyandgonzo.com
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemitten
    Twitter at @BehindTheMitten
    Instagram at @BehindTheMitten
    Radio Affiliates: amyandgonzo.com/general-5
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    20 分