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News

C A D I L L A C
Trusted. Local. Connected.
Recognizing family owned and operated businesses in your community.
Family Affair
2014
2 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
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Advance Realty
Belle Oakes Living Center
Bosticks Drug Store
Breidenstein Oil & Auto Service, Inc.
Burkholder Family Funeral Home, LLC.
Cadillac Java and Java Too
Cadillac News
Cadillac Sands Resort
Corey Funeral Home Inc.
Dons Auto Clinic
DouGLASS
Ellens Equipment
Fabulous Furniture Finds & More
Fairmans Apparel
Hermanns European Cafe
Highpoint Cadillac GMC
Ina Store Inc.
Lark Lawn & Garden, Inc.
LeRoy Tool & Die
Little Manistee Trading Post
Longs Hearing Care Systems
Maggies Food & Spirits
Manton Metal Sales
Family Affair
2014
Martin Power Sports
McBain Family Pharmacy
Northern Hearth Quilting & Sewing, LLC
Northland Trailers
Old Pioneer Store & Emporium
Pilgrim Village Fishing Shop
Reliable Solar Store
Rogers Jewelers
Steves Tire, Inc.
The Sweet Shop
The Timbers
Toy Town
The Ultimate Gift
Voelker Implement Sales, Inc.
Walravens
Westend Coffee and Tea
Wexford Jewelers
Wexford Wood Workings, LLC.
Yoders of Tustin
Yoder Supplies
Ziehm L.P. Gas
Ebels General Store
Recognizing family owned and operated businesses in your community.
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 3
Make The Right Move Now! ADVANCE REALTY
Dont Just Expect the Best - Get the Best! Call Advance Realty Now!
Selling Buying Relocating
35 Years Exceptional, Professional Service
Full Time Professional Realtors Committed To Your Individual Needs
ADVANCE REALTY
PARK PLACE CENTRE 231-775-1368DIRECT
108 S. Mitchell, Ste. A Cadillac, MI Convenient Downtown-At-The-Park Location
advancerealty.com advancerealty@bignetnorth.net
Carol Coe-Vokes
President, Broker-Owner,
GRI I-II-III, ABR, CRS, WCR
Since 1981, Carol Coe-Vokes has
been a major player in the Cadillac
real estate market. With her outgoing
personality and unique style, she
owns any room she enters.
For Carol, sales was a natural
choice, not just because shes
perfectly suited for the job, but also
because shes a Cadillac legacy.
My parents owned Admirals Pet
Shop in Cadillac, said Carol. So it
was pretty natural for me to go into
sales.
Carol founded Advance Realty
in 1981 in the midst of a booming
Cadillac housing market, and it
almost immediately became a family
effort.
My husband, my brother, and
one of my daughters were licensed
agents during that period, she said.
Sales were booming.
Nearly 35 years later, Carols sales are still booming,
even in a sluggish economy.
It takes a special person to succeed in sales, she
said. We have a built-in drive for success and for life
itself. It also takes perseverance and a dedicated work
ethic to survive down timesespecially the last four
years.
Despite continued success, however, Carol has
become a one woman show and points to her guiding
principles and unique skill set as part of the recipe
for success.
I think Ive been so successful because my personal
marketing and advertising skills set me apart
from others, she said. I also pride myself on my
professionalism, honesty and integrity. Ive been in
sales for 35 years with continued referrals. I think this
speaks to my knowledge and integrity.
While loved by her customers, Carol has also been
honored by her colleagues.
Carol began the Womens Council of Realtors
Cadillac Chapter and was President for the rst two
years; also in 1987 Carol was named Realtor of the
Year by her local Board of Realtors which was truly
special.
Carol can be found in her ofce on Mitchell Street
in downtown Cadillac, is available by phone at (231)
775-1368, and you can view her listings online at www.
advancerealty.com.
The sale of a lifetime.
4 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
WE CARE THROUGH CONNECTIONS
231-779-5373
Lake to Lake
Transportation, LLC
231-779-4671
Aquatic Center
231-775-3081
The idea for Belle Oakes was simple for Joel
and Esther Nederhood: they wanted to create an
environment where individuals could live out
the best years of their lives.
Then they saw a need for a personal care
agency with high standards that would be
affordable and committed to its clients 24/7.
Thus, Blue Lagoon was born of necessity, as a
separate personal care agency for the residents
of Belle Oakes and the rest of the community.
It then became obvious that the tenants of
Belle Oakes would need a safe, reliable form
of transportation to bring them to medical
appointments. Lake to Lake Transportation
was formed to meet that need for Belle Oakes
residents as well as the surrounding community.
From there, Esther saw a purpose for
expanding the communitys rehabilitation
options. The Nederhoods set out to build a state-
of-the-art outpatient therapy facility for people
of all ages, with an aquatic center. So Bella
Rose was constructed right down the street from Belle
Oakes.
All four of the companies saw their greatest period
of growth between 2011 and 2013. Belle Oakes opened
a new wing in November of last year, which increased
the number of apartments by 50%. Blue Lagoon saw
enough growth in personal care this past year to double
their care staff. Lake to Lake has increased dramatically
in size, now covering more than 40 counties across the
state. Bella Rose has doubled its clientele in the last
year. Over the last three years, Joel and Esther have
gone from 35 employees to more than 110 and counting.
The key to all of the Nederhoods success is the
E.S.T.H.E.R. Care Model: Enthusiastic, Spiritual,
Trusting, Healthy, Emotional and Respectful. These
key concepts drive their focus and purpose. Their
mission is to, promote and maintain the privacy,
dignity, comfort, optimum independence and safety of
each individual served.
The Nederhoods went from a small Mom & Pop
business to something big very quickly. It was a
challenge learning to trust their team of leaders and
to rapidly reorganize the structure of the business.
In spite of these challenges, all four businesses have
won multiple prestigious awards for their services.
Its clear that theyve adapted to the rapid change, and
channeled their efforts into something as successful as
it is was intended.
Belle Oakes and Lake to Lake are located at 2353
South LaChance Road, and Bella Rosa is located at 1900
South LaChance Road in Lake City.
Caring Through Connections
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 5
117 W. MAIN ST., MANTON
bosticksdrugstore@yahoo.com (231) 824-6465
Emergency After Hours Service Free Deliveries Gifts/Cards
MIKE MOFFIT, PHARMACIST
Bosticks
Drug Store
Bosticks
Drug Store
Quality Hometown Care, for a Healthier You!
In 1882, Charles Bostick opened his
doors to the residents of Manton, then
the County Seat of Wexford County, and
began a tradition thats spanned more
than 140 years.
Five generations later, Bosticks Drug
Store still stands and operates in much
the same way it did in 1882: by keeping
Manton healthy.
While the name and the business
remain the same, ownership has changed
families. Mike Moft purchased the
business from the Bostick family in 2011
and continues to provide convenient
pharmacy services to local patients.
No one in the Bostick family was
interested in the pharmacy profession,
said Moft. I saw a good opportunity
for success in retail pharmacy, so I
made the move to purchase it.
Today, Moft is the sole proprietor
and runs the business by himself in
much the same way it has always been run.
I try to give the utmost care and attention to every
patient that walks through my front door, said Moft.
We offer free delivery and after hours service as
well.
Whatever he is doing is working. Bosticks Drug
Store continues to grow and has become an integral
part of Downtown Manton businesses and the
community. Moft credits the increase to the nature
of a local pharmacy.
Owning a small, family-run business allows me to
offer that small town service to do the little things
that only a community-based pharmacy like this
can do, he said. We just give really good customer
service.
Being the little guy is not without its challenges,
however. With mail order pharmacies, insurance
reimbursement issues and the notion that the big box
stores are cheaper than local stores; its often difcult
to keep customers coming through the doors.
Bosticks Drug Store is located at 117 West Main
Street in Manton and can be reached at (231) 824-6465.
Quality Hometown Care
6 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
BREIDENSTEIN OIL & AUTO SERVICE, INC.
SERVICES:
Computer Wheel Alignment Brakes
Tires: Passenger, Light Trucks, Trailers
Steering & Suspension Trailer Hitches
Electrical Clutches & Drive Axles
Interstate Batteries Engine Repair Diagnostics
502 S. Mitchell, Cadillac
231-775-3371
Monday-Friday
8 AM-5:30 PM
In the 1970s, John Swanberg, Sr. operated a service
station on M-115 but began to wonder if being
downtown would provide a better opportunity for
growth. At the same time, Breidensteins, a gas
station, bulk fuel, home heating oil and industrial oil
sales business went up for sale and John Sr., along
with Bill White, purchased the business and began
the transformation into an auto repair facility. In
1976, the Breidenstein business as we know it today
was born.
Bill took care of the oil sales, and dad concentrated
on building the auto service, said John Jr. who
purchased the business from his father in 2005.
The business has seen a number of changes since
its early days. The building experienced a re in 1981
and Bill and John were forced to rebuild. In 1998, due to
environmental concerns, the gas pumps were removed.
At the same time the bulk fuel and home heating oil
portion was sold, and John Sr. bought out Bills interest
in the company. Breidenstein is now a full service auto
repair shop and industrial oil sales.
One thing that has remained the same throughout the
history of the business, however, is the name. While no
Breidenstein has had any connection to the business
since the 1976 sale, John Jr. reects on the choice to
keep the name.
When they bought the business from Mr.
Breidenstein in 1976, there was a plaque on the wall
from Mobil Oil for 38 years of selling their products, so
they decided to keep the name since it was well known
in the community.
A few other things have remained the same since the
76 purchase. Gary Elenbaas has been an employee of
the company since and remains to this day along with
Johns mother, Maxine Swanberg, who has worked in
the ofce since 1978. John Jr. started in 1979.
Weve been blessed to have wonderful customers,
said John. Were now seeing a third generation of
families walk through the door.
While a lifelong part of the business, John wasnt
always sure this was for him.
I worked in a factory for a little while, and went to
Florida from 96 99 before I decided to come back and
take over the shop, he said.
Today, John, Maxine, Gary, and Kevin Radtke are
keeping the Breidenstein name alive and well and
continue to offer the same quality of service that John,
Sr. built his business on nearly 40 years ago.
We try to understand our customers needs, said
John. Doing the job in a timely fashion, always being
honest, and fair prices are the keys to success here.
For John, working in the family business has been a
little bittersweet.
Knowing you can count on each otherno matter
whatis a denite benet to a family business, he
said. But not being able to be gone at the same time
is tough.
Breidensteins is located at 502 S. Mitchell Street in
Cadillac and can be reached at (231) 775-3371.
A Lifetime Of Service
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 7
211 N. Pine St., P.O. Box 38, McBain, MI 49657
231-825-8191
www.burkholderfamilyfuneralhome.com
Keith D. Burkholder,
licensed mortician and resident of the area since 1974
1. Call 231-825-8191.
2. Come in.
3. Compare facilities and prices.
4. Change.
TAKE THE
4 C CHALLENGE:
For more than 40 years, Keith
Burkholder has served families
in McBain and the surrounding
communities throughout the difficult
process of saying goodbye to a loved
one. Keith has been a funeral director
in the area since 1979. In 2013, he
opened a new funeral home on Pine
Street.
Being from the Lake City area,
Keith and his wife, Norma, longed to
return home and found the small town
atmosphere of the McBain community
appealing. They relocated, started
a funeral home and have been in
business ever since.
Today, their personal values of
honesty and integrity guide their business, resulting
in a company that is identied by compassion and
empathy.
Were proud of how we are able to meet the
customers various needs, said Keith. We arent
afraid to adapt to the changing attitudes and new
trends in funeral practices.
The Burkholders focus on accommodating their
clients, and they will hold services at any time of
day, on any day of the week. They understand how
hard it can be for people to handle the high cost of
todays economic conditions, so they choose not
to charge a service fee for holiday, Sunday or even
nighttime services.
Were available 24-7 anywhere, anytime, said
Keith Burkholder. We answer our own phones as
well, no answering service here.ever.
A full-service facility, Burkholder Family Funeral
Home is proud to offer conventional and alternative
services in a comfortable new facility located in
downtown McBain, Michigan.
The fully handicap-accessible building features a
number of amenities. Upon entering, youll notice
a large area for luncheons and greeting that leads
into the large funeral chapel for holding the service,
which includes a state-of-the-art sound and lighting
systems, and multimedia monitors. The building
also houses a coffee room and ample parking.
Burkholder Family Funeral Home is located
at 211 North Pine Street in McBain. They can
be reached at (231) 825-8191, or online at www.
BurkholderFamilyFuneralHome.com.
A Tradition Of Caring
8 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Drive Thru
Next To Cadillac Sands Cadillac West
Drive Thru
Next to Mancinos Downtown Cadillac
Two Ways to Get Coffee on the Go!
Coffee & Espresso Lattes & Mochas Hot Chocolate Frozen Drinks Chai and More!
Monday-Friday 6:00 am-7:00 pm; Saturday 7:00 am-7:00pm ~ Cadillac Java only Sunday 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Three minutes at a drive thru each
morning is probably not the best way to build
relationships, but for Beth and John Wallin,
owners of Cadillac Java and Java Too, it seems
to be working rather well.
The key to the success of our business
has been the relationships established with
our customers via our amazing employees,
said Beth Wallin. The ladies who work for us
work very hard to know our regular customers
and what they are looking for when they pull
up. They work with speed and accuracy to help the
customer begin and end their day in a perfect way. This
keeps them coming back.
For Beth, relationships are the most important aspect
in her business but she admits that its sometimes easy
to get lost in the process.
Its important to maintain focus on whats important.
Its easy to get lost in the busy-ness and forget that
people and relationships are what keep you going.
The Wallins purchased Cadillac Java in 2011 from
founders Mike and Francy Barker and their son, Tim.
We had a seamless transition between ownership, said
Beth. Part of the challenge was to maintain the known
quality customer service and product consistency.
The Wallins arent new to family business. In fact, if
you recognize that last name, its because John was co-
owner of the popular Wallin Farms with his parents,
Fred and Pat Wallin. When the family reached a point
where they could no longer keep working the farm,
they closed the doors and John and Beth turned their
attention to the coffee business.
Yes it was a calculated decision to purchase Cadillac
Java, said Beth. We got right to work to not only
maintain, but grow the business to follow through on
the plan established by the previous owners.
The Wallins were clearly up to the challenge that rst
year. In fact, it went so nice they decided to do it twice
by opening Java Too with the help of good friend and
partner, Terri Raffaele.
For the Wallins, nding a guiding principle for
business was an easy search.
We run our business exactly the same way we run
our lives, said Beth. We are faithful Christian people
and we believe that its important to love your neighbor
as yourself. That means treating others as you would
like to be treated. Our employees are as important to
us as our own family. By treating them with respect and
love, they are able to share that with our customers.
Running a business is never easy, but it does have its
rewards. For John and Beth, its the ability to establish
their own business relationships and steer the direction
of the company.
The success of our business depends on our work
ethic and the relationships weve built with our
employees, our customers and our community, said
Beth. We are a small business and we strive to give
each of our customers a small bit of encouragement
one smile and one cup at a time.
Twice As Nice
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 9
Since 1872, the Cadillac News has been the thread that knits our
communities together. Dedicated reporters, who live in the area, provide
first-hand accounts of the important issues that affect your lives.
If its important to the community, youll find it in the Cadillac News.
Well continue to deliver the most in-depth coverage of local government,
environmental issues, schools, education and the lives of local people.
A long-standing tradition.
Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.
231-775-6565 www.cadillacnews.com
Trusted. Local. Connected.
For more than 140 years, the Cadillac News
has been delivering news to the residents of the
Cadillac area.
The history of the publication is, in many ways,
the history of Cadillac itself.
Like the original name of the city, the paper
was known as The Clam Lake News and began
with the encouragement of C.L. Frazier by his
good friend, George A. Mitchell, the founder of
the Village of Clam Lake. In 1877, the village
was incorporated as a city and given the name
Cadillac. Logically, the name of the paper
changed as well and the Cadillac News
was born. With a continuous history of
operation, most by the Huckle family, a
number of early editions of the Clam
Lake News and nearly every edition of
the Cadillac News have been preserved
by the Huckle family in the special
archives room at the Cadillac News.
The ownership history of the Cadillac
News was somewhat checkered in its
early years with various individuals
and interests owning and operating the
business. Things stabilized for the paper
in 1926 when T.O. Huckle purchased
controlling interest and the Huckle family
has remained the sole owners of the
publication and all its entities since that
time.
Today, the paper is owned and operated
by Chris Huckle and his wife, Katy, who not only own
the paper, but the historic building that it occupies. The
couple purchased controlling interest of the paper in 2003
when Chris father, Tom Huckle, retired as editor. Today,
Chris serves as publisher of the paper and Katy works in
the banking industry.
For the Huckle family, running
a newspaper is a tremendous
responsibility. Not just because of the
work that goes into producing what is
essentially a brand new product six
days per week, but because of the role a
newspaper plays in any community.
Our purpose, said Chris Huckle, is
to provide information that enhances
the businesses, the communities, and
the lives of the people we serve.
As the sole owners of the paper, the
Huckle family is unique. In fact, out of
51 daily newspapers in the state of Michigan,
The Cadillac News is one of only six papers that continue
to be locally owned and operated.
The Cadillac News is located at 130 North Mitchell
Street in Downtown Cadillac. You can nd the Cadillac
News online at www.cadillacnews.com.
Connecting people, Enhancing lives
10 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Family Friend Atmosphere! Great Kids Menu!
Specalizing in Steaks & Seafoodi
M-115 at M-55, Cadillac 231-775-2407 www.cadillacsands.com
Cadillacs Hottest Night
Spot is the SandBar
Niteclub!
Hours: Friday & Saturday
8:30 PM-2:00 AM
Cadillacs Only
Full-Service
Lakeside Resort
Snowmobile & Boat Rentals
When Ann and Wayne Fox stumbled upon a
tiny ad in the Flint Journal in 1998, they knew
they had hopefully found what they were
looking for.
We were searching for property in Northern
Michigan and came upon this tiny ad, said
Wayne. The rest, as they say, is history.
The Foxs took ownership of the property in
July of 1998 and immediately began building
the resort that has come to be known as The
Cadillac Sands Resort.
The original Sands was built in 1961
and boasted a 55-room motel with a lot of
potential.
After a $1.1 million renovation in 2001,
the resort became a year-round
playground and the realization of
a dream for Ann and Wayne.
Today, guests can enjoy all the
outdoor recreation Cadillac has
to offer. With 600 feet of sandy
beach, guests can enjoy a drink
at the Beach Bar or get out on the
water with a kayak, paddleboat
or pontoon from Funtime Rentals.
In the winter, snowmobiles are
available to rent with easy access to
miles of groomed trails. At the end
of a long day, guests can take a quick
dip in Cadillacs largest indoor heated pool or relax in a
jacuzzi before enjoying a relaxing meal in the Porthole
Pub and Eatery. Boasting a nautical theme, the Porthole
specializes in steaks and seafood and is considered
among Cadillacs nest dining establishments. After
dinner, guests can relax in
one of the clean, comfortable
hotel rooms on the property
and prepare for a fun evening
in of dancing and music
at the Sand Bar, Cadillacs
premier night club.
In 2011, The Sands proudly
celebrated 50 years of the
good life in Cadillac, and
thanks to Ann and Wayne Fox, we can all look forward to
many more years of a vacation paradise on the shores of
beautiful Lake Cadillac.
Cadillac Sands is off the intersection of M-115 and
M-55 in Cadillac West and can be found online at www.
cadillacsands.com.
A Local Landmark Since 1961
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 11
Mark F. Corey, Manager
415 N. Main St. Evart 231-734 -2251
Honor your loved one
with dignity, respect,
and personal attention
to every detail.
The funeral business isnt
for everyone. But for Mark
Corey, it was truly a family
affair and something he
knew he wanted to do from
an early age.
I knew from the time
I was a child that this is
what I wanted to do, said
Mark Corey, who runs the
company along with director
Jeff Belleville, Cheryl
Westenfeld, John Bennett
and his mother, Phyllis
Corey.
For Mark, working
alongside his elderly mother
is perhaps the most rewarding part of his job, but also
the most challenging.
My mother worked alongside my father, Orrin
Corey, said Mark. After he died and I took over, she
continued to help me and does so to this day.
The Corey Funeral Home has been in the family
since 1921 when George Corey purchased the Wilson
Funeral Home, a downtown Evart store-front business
that sold furniture in addition to its undertaking
services. The business was moved to its current
location in the early twenties. A major renovation in
the 1960s left the building much as it looks today.
The history of the business really mirrors that of
Evart itself, as Evart grew so did Coreys. But despite
all the changes over the years, the mission has
remained the same to treat people how you would
want to be treated.
In its third generation of dignied service to the
Evart Area, Corey Funeral Home can be found at 415
N. Main Street in Evart or online at coreyfuneralhome.
com.
A Legacy Of Dignity
12 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
1110 N. Mitchell Cadillac, MI 775-2413
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:30 PM,
Sat. 8 AM-2 PM, Other by Appt.

Honesty and Integrity


are the
Foundation of Our Business!
www.DonsAutoClinic.com
Over 200 vehicles to choose from!
If we dont have what you want in one of
Northern Michigans largest inventories -
Well nd it!
For the Winkle family, running a business is about
much more than just selling high quality automobiles.
Its about serving the community they reside in with
honesty and integrity the way they have for more
than half a century.
Honesty and integrity: these are the values that
Don Boes and George Meekhof founded Dons Auto
Clinic on back in 1958, when he saw a need in the
community for a reputable, affordable repair facility.
And these are the same values that Tod, Tracy and
Phil Winkle still run on today.
Its not just a slogan to us, said Phil Winkle. It is
how we do business. If you do right by the customer,
they will keep coming
back.
With customers coming
back year after year, it
seems like the formula is
working.
After acquiring Dodge
in 2003, Dons Auto
Clinic has experienced
growing success every
following year. Theyve
even expanded product lines and had several building
expansion projects. Dons Auto Clinic now offers
vehicles by Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge/Ram.
If you walk into Dons Auto Clinic, youll notice a
different atmosphere than you might at another auto
dealer. For one, youll almost certainly see one of the
owners working, because they are in the store all day,
every day.
Another thing you may notice, especially after repeat
visits, is that the faces seldom change. Thats because
the gifted employees at Dons Auto Clinic share the
owners vision, and are every bit as committed to
their values.
The Winkles say that one of the biggest benets of
working with family is the knowledge that, we have
loved ones right beside us to help when we fail, and to
share in it when we succeed.
But it can sometimes be difcult, too.
Working with your family everyday makes it a little
more challenging to get together outside of work,
said Phil. After spending all day together, sometimes
you need a break.
Dons Auto Clinic is located at 1110 N. Mitchell
Street, in Cadillac. You can reach them at (231) 775-
2413, or nd them online at www.DonsAutoClinic.com.
Honesty, Integrity & Automobiles
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 13
Your Full Service Glass Shop
DouGLASS
1-800-922-GLAS (231) 779-3960 (Located next to Arbys Cadillac)
www.douglassthewindowguys.com Call us today for a FREE estimate.
Vinyl Replacement Windows ~
Select the best Color-Wood-Combo for your castle; No one offers options like Royal Seal.
Our colors are fast, but they dont run. They are solid vinyl exterior cladding with color clear through.
Choose from 3 colors or 4 woodgrain fnishes inside and 7 different colors outside.
Like many small business owners, Doug
Sengelaub grew up in a family business
learning the ropes and developing his own
ideas.
In 1996, he took those ideas and founded
DouGlass: a full service glass business in
Cadillac.
After working in my parents glass
business, I wanted to branch out. I wanted
to try things a different way and in a
different area, said Doug Sengelaub. I
saw a need in the Cadillac area for a full
service glass shop.
With the help and support of his wife,
Melinda, Doug Sengelaub moved into the
former Garn Glass building. DouGlass
was born.
Throughout the years, Doug Sengelaub has grown
the business signicantly. First by adding autoglass in
1998 and insulated glass production the next year.
We do all kind of glass here, said Doug. In 1999 we
built a new facility to produce high quality, insulated
glass panels right here in Cadillac.
But despite having the ability to do big glass jobs,
DouGlass keeps its focus on the individual customer.
I treat my customers the way I would like to be
treated, he said. It doesnt matter how small the job
or the problem is, well try to x it.
With a can-do attitude and a talented team around
him, Doug Sengelaub is poised to keep growing
for years to come. But its clear how he feels about
becoming too big or selling out to a big corporation.
I will never allow a big corporation in here, he
said. Its a challenge to keep ahead of them, and
theyre moving into the industry, but were a small,
family business and we plan to stay that way.
Today, Doug Sengelaub has a little help staying on
top of things. Along with his wife, Doug Sengelaub
credits the hard work of Chad Carmichael, Carrie
Brookhart and Chris Coffman in making the business
as successful today as it was during the economic
boom of the late 90s.
My employees are like family, and I try to treat
them that way, he said.
DouGlass is located at 1722 N. Mitchell Street
in Cadillac and can be found online at www.
DouGlassTheWindowGuys.com. They can also be
reached by calling (231) 779-3960.
Big-Time Products,
Small Town Service
14 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
104 W. Maple, McBain, MI 49657
231-825-2416
Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5 PM,
Sat. 8 AM-12 PM
www.ellensequipment.com
Driving through McBain, you notice a few things:
beautiful farmland, a great school system and a lot of
farm equipment.
The schools and the farmland belong to the good
people of McBain, but the tractors? They belong to Ellens
Equipment and they can be found on every vacant lot,
and spare piece of ground in town that will hold them.
Theyre not always the same piece of equipment, however.
New pieces replace those recently sold in much the same
way as they have for the last several years. This process
speaks to one truth. Ellens sells a lot of equipment.
When June Ellens opened the doors of Ellens
Equipment 60 years ago, they employed ve people: one
parts man, one service technician, two salesmen and a
bookkeeper. Today the number of employees has grown
to 21 hardworking folks who are as busy as they can be.
For current owners Don and Linda Ellens, those
employees are their lifeline and they depend on their
reliability to show up and get the job done. From their
Parts Manager, Dan Swiler, and Service Manager, Brent
Whetstone, to their service, parts and ofce teams, the
Ellens have assembled a group they know they can
count on.
With rapidly changing technology in the ag industry, the
Ellens keep their staff up to date with changing trends and
often sends employees to trainings throughout the year.
These trainings are key to keeping a well-educated
staff working together and striving to improve the work
they are putting out into the community, said Don.
Despite an unpredictable and struggling economy,
Ellens has experienced their largest period of growth in
the last few years. For Don, its all about adapting.
We took on a couple of larger lines of equipment,
said Don. So weve been able to provide a more diverse
product selection to our customers.
Don has been a part of the business since childhood.
Beginning as a mechanic in the service department, Don
worked his way through the ranks in each department
before nally taking over as the general manager. Linda
had been working for the company part-time for years
while also keeping a job as a nurse in Cadillac. In 2000,
she joined the company as the full time bookkeeper.
Keeping with the family tradition, Don and Lindas
children have joined the business as well. After
graduating from college and working elsewhere in the
industry, their son, Luke, returned home in 2011 and
looks forward to continuing the Ellens tradition by
taking over for his father some day. Following in Lukes
footsteps is his sister, Nicole, who spent four years in the
Human Services eld after college and now works in the
ofce where she handles advertising and bookkeeping
responsibilities.
Working with family allows us the opportunity to
establish good relationships, said Don. It also instills
a level of pride and desire for accomplishing mutual
goals for the business. There is a sense of security, being
surrounded with family, because we can depend on each
other, no matter what.
With a strong family and dedicated team of
professionals at Ellens Equipment, you arent likely to
see too many empty lots in downtown McBain anytime
soon.
Ellens Equipment is located at 104W. Maple Street in
McBain. You can reach them at (231) 825-2416, or online
at www.ellensequipment.com.
Strong family = Strong Business
Kathi Blevins is unique. Not only does
she own and operate a furniture business
primarily alone, but she can also be seen
plowing the parking lot and loading
mattresses and other furniture for her
customers.
That dedication, work ethic and personal
service has kept Fabulous Furniture
successful for more than 13 years.
But for Kathi the Mattress Lady (as many
customers refer to her), running a family
business was not part of the plan.
I was a stay-at-home mom and I found
myself in a situation where I had to provide
for my four children alone, said Kathi. I
worked three jobs to make ends meet.
One of those jobs actually evolved into the
store she owns and operates today.
I worked for two years selling mattresses,
she said. Then the opportunity came up to
buy the business, so I took a chance.
Today, Kathi, along with her youngest daughter,
Kelsey, maintain a showroom full of home
furnishings and have a full warehouse. By being
honest, fair and affordable, Kathi has built a
business she can be proud of.
We have built a loyal customer base that relies on
our honesty and quality and we are very thankful
for their business, said Kathi.
Despite her independent spirit, Kathi insists that
she didnt do it alone.
Over the years my kids have all worked here,
she said. Kyle, Katelyn, Kaleb and Kelsey have all
helped this business grow.
Kathi will be the first to tell you that the process
hasnt always been easy, but overall it has been good
for her children to grow up in a family business.
They really had no choice. I needed the help
and they needed to learn that you have to work to
make it in this world, she said. They are honest
and have learned how to treat people through my
example. We have been blessed to have spent that
time together.
For Kathi, being the owner of her own business
allows her to add value to her products by offering
very fair prices, and fitting to each individual
clients needs.
We are very service oriented and we have the
best prices in northern Michigan, she said. If I
save on a product, I pass that on to the customer.
Fabulous Furniture Finds & More is located at
7421 Boon Road in Cadillac and online at www.
FabulousFurnitureFindsAndMore.com. You can
also reach them at (231) 876-0565.
Comfort & Style are in Reach
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 15
Where Comfort is
within
your Budget!
7421 E. Boon Rd., Cadillac (1 1/4 Mile West of Old 131)
231-876-0565
www.fabulousfurniturendsandmore.com
Furniture & Mattresses for Every Size Budget!
Mattress Sets
Twin $99 Full $119
Queen $159
Extra Firm Rio Set (double sided)
Twin $349 Full $449
Queen $499 King $649
16 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
231-796-9630
102 S. Michigan Avenue Big Rapids www.fairmansapparelandthesole.com
Mon-Fri: 10 am-5:30 pm Sat: 10 am-4 pm Sun: CLOSED
FAIRMANS
APPAREL
Classic styles and the latest trends!
Come see our new fashions & accessories
Fairmans Apparel in Big Rapids is
truly a family affair. Spanning multiple
generations, the Fairman tradition is as
old as Big Rapids itself.
In 1880, Ferdinand Fairman built what
became known as the Fairman block
in downtown Big Rapids. Nearly 140
years later, his building proudly bears
the Fairman name and is owned and
operated by several of his descendents.
In the summer of 2003, downtown
Big Rapids began to experience a
renaissance. With support from the
Big Rapids Housing Commission,
the Downtown Business Association
and The Mecosta County Chamber
of Commerce, the Fairman-Nisbett
buildings were restored and the stage
was set for Kathy Straley, Fran Ward,
Muggs Ward and Beth Ranger to realize
their dream of owning a womens
clothing store. For Kathy Straley, there
was no better place than the building
that bears the name of her great-great grandfather. A
rental agreement was reached and In 2004, Fairmans
Apparel opened its doors.
This year the store is celebrating its 10th year in
business, but it hasnt been without its trials.
Our biggest period of growth was from 2004 - 2008,
said Kathy Straley. But in 2008, the nation suffered
from a recession and little old Big Rapids was not
immune to its effects.
However, their commitment to excellent customer
service and good quality products was enough to carry
them through the tough
economic environment and
Fairmans remains as strong
today as it has ever been. For
Kathy Straley this is a point
of pride.
I think that we are still
open and actually thriving
in spite of the recession is a
major accomplishment. Our
quality has not gone down
and our prices have not gone up. Thats saying a lot
these days.
Today, the cast of characters has changed a little,
but Fairmans remains a family business.
Kathy Straleys daughter, Emily Robison, has joined
the team and is expanding the business to target a
younger clientele. With a fresh look and years of
retail business ownership behind her, Emily Robison
is poised to take Fairmans into the next generation
and continue the legacy of the Fairman name in Big
Rapids.
Dressed For Success
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 17
214 N. Mitchell Downtown Cadillac 231-775-9563
EUROPEAN CAFE
DELI, BUTCHER SHOP & HOTEL
Soup & Salad Bar in Deli
Sunday Burnch 11:30 AM
Casual Dining & Outside Seating
*Opas Butcher Shop offers a huge selection of wines and
fresh meat & seafood and a wide selection of cigars.
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
For Austrian born Hermann Suhs,
owning a restaurant in the United States
is a dream come true. An international
chef, Hermann worked around the world
before taking a job as the Executive Chef
at the Grand Traverse Resort. It was
there he met his future wife and business
partner Mardi. When an abandoned caf
in downtown Cadillac became available in
1984, Hermanns European Caf was born.
This year, Hermann and Mardi celebrated
their 30th year in business and looked back
on the years with fond memories.
From the moment we opened we were
welcomed by the community of Cadillac,
said Mardi. We were thankful for their
love and support.
Through the 1990s, Hermanns
experienced tremendous growth as
Hermanns became a destination for food
lovers throughout the state.
In 1988, Hermann added seven unique hotel rooms
above the restaurant, followed by the Chef s Deli and
Opas Butcher Shop, with a huge selection of wines.
Lalli Einarsson, an Icelandic immigrant, manages
the Butcher Shop and is the resident sommelier.
Lalli is a huge part of our success, said
Hermann. And Executive Chef, Steve Gorksi, is a
gifted and talented chef. He is also a key person in
our organization.
Other key players are day chef, Travis Raden;
administrative assistant, Peni Lalonde; and
bartender Billie Gorski.
Mardi and Hermann raised two children, Roman
and Josephine, who worked in the family business
since they were 14. Now living in Chicago and Los
Angeles, they still provide input and help.
As an immigrant, Hermanns story is a true
reection of the American dream.
We had a dream, we gambled on it, and succeeded
beyond our wildest dreams, said Hermann, who
insists that his proudest moment was becoming an
American citizen.
You can nd Hermann on any given day talking
with customers in downtown Cadillac, on his popular
TV cooking segment on 9 & 10 News, or online at
www.chefhermann.com.
Good Food, Good Family
18 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Gustave Flaubert once said, Success is a result, not a goal.
There are always a few who are inspired to work a little harder
and climb a little higher.
So where can you nd this same commitment to excellence in an
automobile dealership? At Highpoint. Were a unique dealership
with an exceptional way of doing business.
At Highpoint, success will never be an indication of completion,
but a signal to begin again. Thats why we are constantly
revitalizing our facilities, our services and our premiere selection
of ne automobiles. Perhaps thats why so many of this areas
successful individuals will make Highpoint their dealership.
Visit us, we perform at the highest level . . . yours.
South End Business US-131, Exit 177, Cadillac
(231) 775-1222 1-800-828-9852
www.HighpointAuto.com
Highpoint Cadillac GMC...
We Perform at a Higher Level... Yours.
The Highpoint story began in 1986
when Harvey and Harold Koning saw an
opportunity in an existing car dealership
in Cadillac.
In 1991, Jerry Koop Sr. became a partner
and operator and began to grow the business.
Trouble surfaced in early 1993, when
the ofce manager was found guilty of
embezzlement and the business was
not able to show a prot due to the large
amount of cash siphoned from the
business. But Koop cleaned up the mess
and took the dealership back to
the black.
The 90s were good years,
said Jerry Koop Jr. who is now the
general manager of Highpoint.
From 1993 to 1999 we grew in
volume and gross sales.
In 2000, structural changes
within General Motors offered
Highpoint another challenge.
GM decided to quit making
Oldsmobile and Pontiac, said
Koop. Those were our two leading
volume vehicles.
The trouble continued when GM went bankrupt and
Highpoint lost its Cadillac Dealership.
We fought the Cadillac decision and eventually
won, but we were without [the brand] for a full year,
said Koop.
For the Koops, customer loyalty has helped them
through some difcult years, and a strong set of
talented employees keep them coming back.
We feel like we have the best
employees around and were proud
of each and every one of them, said
Koop. It would be impossible to run
this business without them. We try
to treat them like family, but we also
insist that they treat our customers
that way as well.
Treating the customer well is a guiding principle for
the Koops and stems from a well-known approach to life.
We try to run our business by the Golden Rule.
Prots are necessary, but are not the only driving
force, said Koop. To treat the customer as a friend
and truly value that relationship is our ultimate goal
and our true purpose.
Highpoint Auto is located at 7555 South US 131
in Cadillac. They can be reached online at www.
HighpointAuto.com, or on the phone at (800) 828-9852.
Performing at a Higher Level
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 19
In Beautiful Downtown Ina
10035 21 Mile Rd. Tustin, MI 49688
(231) 825-2575
featuring
The Ina Store has continuously operated at its present
location since 1897. Originally a general store owned by the
Kanouse family, the store was named after the daughter of
the rst ownerher name was Ina. This brings us to the
present day sloganLocated in beautiful downtown Ina.
With the store address on a Tustin mail route the name can
be confusing to some and others assume that Ina was an
old logging town. For the Smallegan family, the saying is
sort of an inside joke.
Our store is miles from any actual town, said Dean
Smallegan. It works as an inside joke. People come in and
ask where the town is. We tell them there is no downtown
Ina, and its up to them to judge whether were beautiful
or not!
Today the store no longer sells the typical general store
fare like our, eggs, hardware and clothing, but something
a little further back on the chain of food production
farm equipment.
In 1944, we were one of three International Harvester
(IH) dealers in Osceola County, said Rich. Today our store
is now the only Case-IH dealer in northern Michigan.
The store truly is a family affair with Dean Smallegan and
his brother, Rich, sharing the ownership and management
of Ina Store, Inc. But the family involvement doesnt end
there.
I spent this summer working with my dad, my brother
and two of my nephews, said Dean. Most of my friends
see their extended family maybe weekly, but more often
once a year. Its such a bonus to be with family every day
of the week.
Rich and Dean purchased the store in 2005 from their
parents, Merle and Thelma, who had owned it since 1973,
but neither of the boys were sure it was where they wanted
to end up.
We grew up a mile from the store, said Dean. Rich and
I both knew the option existed to take over, but we werent
certain it was the right path. We both worked away for
awhile but eventually returned and the rest is history. We
have loved it ever since.
Perhaps its a lifetime of experience or that love for the
job that has helped the Ina Store stand the test of time, in
good times and bad.
We face the same challenges as any small business,
said Rich. Management and strategy issues, nancial
concerns, competition, etc but we work hard to treat our
customers and employees better than we treat ourselves.
We value those relationships and we think integrity is as
important as the bottom line.
With 15 employees and families to feed, the approach
seems to be working rather well. The Ina Store is currently
in the midst of a building project, adding a new service
shop to better serve its customers as farm equipment
continues to grow in size and complexity.
You can see Rich and Dean and most likely a few more
members of the Smallegan family at the Ina Store, just of
M115 on 21 Mile Rd ten miles east of Tustin, or nd them
online at www.theinastore.com.
A Family Tradition
20 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
LARK
Lawn & Garden, Inc.
Servicing what we sell for over 40 years!
M-37 South @ Norton Rd.
Traverse City
231-943-4900
414 S. Mitchell St.
Downtown Cadillac
231-775-4900
www.LarkLawnandGarden.com
Larry Fleis was serving the community as a police
ofcer with the Traverse City Police Department when
he saw an opportunity and had an ideahe would open
an outdoor power store to supplement his income.
With his wife, Marilyn, on board, Larry opened Lark
Lawn and Garden in Traverse City in 1974. For nearly
20 years, Larry continued to split his time between the
store and the police force. In 1997, he
retired and moved the store from
its original location, one mile
south to the corner of Norton Road
and M-37 to increase visibility.
This was a big move for us,
said Ben Fleis, Larry and Marilyns
son, who is now the manager of
the Cadillac Store. It allowed us
to put in larger buildings and with
the increased trafc, our sales
increased substantially.
But the expansions didnt end
there. In 2004, the family saw a need
for an outdoor power equipment dealer in the Cadillac
area. After 30 years in business, Lark Lawn and Garden
began to service two local communities.
We were really welcomed into the community,
said Ben. This year we celebrate 10 years serving the
Cadillac area.
With seven family members currently assisting in the
daily operations of the business, Lark Lawn and Garden
is truly a family affair.
The benet is that everyone here truly cares about
quality customer service, said Ben. Even our staff
members that are not technically part of the family are
treated as family. We offer holiday pay, health insurance
and we even provide a paid day off for your birthday.
With sister Suzique Couture serving as the General
Manager, Ben is surrounded by family. Larrys brother,
Marc Fleis, has been with the company since 1981 and
has been a major element in the companys success over
the years.
Hes had a lot of positions here, said
Ben. He was instrumental in bringing
the Husqvarna brand to the store and has
been our primary technician for years.
His experience and expertise are very
valuable to the company.
Despite the passage of time and changes in technology,
one thing has remained the same for the Fleis family:
to provide quality equipment at a fair price with
unsurpassed service.
To that end, the family continually seeks to improve
all aspects of the company so that it will benet the
customers, the employees and the company itself.
With more than 10 brands of equipment, a huge parts
inventory and the two top brands of chainsaws in the
world, Stihl and Husqvarna, Lark Lawn and Garden is
considered a large dealer of outdoor power equipment.
We are the super store of lawn equipment, said Ben.
But we still provide that same friendly, personalized
service that we always have.
Lark Lawn and Garden is located on the corner of
Norton Road and M-37 in Traverse City and on Mitchell
Street in downtown Cadillac. You can also nd them
online at www.larklawnandgarden.com.
A powerful family stands the test of time.
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 21
Eric Wanstead eric.wanstead@leroytool.com
Quotes - ltdquotes@leroytool.com www.leroytool.com
17951 Mackinaw Trail, LeRoy
231-768-4336
RUBBER MOLDS PLASTIC MOLDS BLOW MOLDS
3D/5-AXIS MACHINING GUN DRILLING
DIE SHOES MOLD REPAIR CNC MACHINING
LeRoy Tool
&Die
L
D
T
A Growing Business in
the Heart of LeRoy.
In late 1980s, brothers
Terry and Bobby
Wanstead were working
in the tool and die
business, at times each
were driving to Grand
Rapids for their jobs.
When they noticed that
a small machine shop
was up for sale in LeRoy,
they started to dream and
imagined how much nicer it would be to work on their
own and not have to commute so far.
The gamble paid off and LeRoy Tool and Die opened
its doors in 1988. By 1997, the business had grown to
seven employees and four CNC machines. By that
time, Bobby was ready to move on and Terry bought
out his share of the company. One year later, Terrys
son, Chris, joined the team followed by his youngest
son, Eric, in 2001. Terry and his boys have been joined
from time to time by numerous other family members,
some of which currently work for the company.
Today, the company employs 85 people and primarily
produces rubber and plastic molds for the automotive
industry on more than 50 CNC machines. However,
they do get a chance to change things up now and then
by working on different things for farms, sawmills or
other kinds of people in the community.
In the process of adding staff and more machines,
the building that houses the shop was forced to grow
as well, with new additions being added as necessary.
While the business in LeRoy continues to grow, the
family has added value in another way by purchasing
a mold company in Grand Junction in 2013 called
S&S Mold. For the Wansteads, the new business has
proven to be a tremendous assest and has contributed
to the growth of the company.
Brothers dream leads to big success
22 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
LITTLE MANISTEE
Chic Antique Store Furniture
Resale Consignment
231-797-5101 201 State St., Luther
Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 9-5; Wednesday 9-1:30;
Fri./Sat. 9-6; Sunday 9-4
In recent years, the Village of Luther has
experienced a renaissance. With the local community
pulling together to make Luther all that it can be, Jim
and Shawna VanDyke wanted to be part of the effort.
When the opportunity to purchase
one of the oldest brick
buildings in town came
their way, they didnt
hesitate.
The pair immediately
began restoration efforts
on the building in an
attempt to return it to
its original beauty and
open a business in the
new space. After much
hard work and sheer
determination, the Little
Manistee Trading Post
opened its doors in July
of 2014.
Walking into the post, you immediately see the
beauty: original brick walls, high ceilings and very
unique and unforgettable wood craftsmanship.
Standing in the main room almost feels like standing
outside of two old-town buildings. The loft above adds
to the beauty, as it has unique windows with shudders
and gorgeous railings. Locals, Doug Olson and James
Damon, worked together to create a downtown feel
right inside the building. Another local, Gail Ganger,
painted a beautiful mural on the wall that is stunning.
Beauty is not all you will nd inside this historic
building. This Trading Post carries things ranging
from antiques, consigned items, tools, furniture,
clothes, ne jewelry and many household items
(new and used). You can purchase Pro Pellets, fresh
farm eggs and even bales of hay. Want to support the
community? Check out their locally handmade items,
such as baby clothes, decor, baskets, crafts, laundry
detergent and beautifully hand-carved wooden Up
North birds. Through Little Manistee Ironworks, you
can custom order several items ranging from beds,
gates, pot racks, candle holders, decor and much more!
With a new school year upon us, youll also want to
check out their clothing and shoes. With sizes ranging
from infants to adults in several name brands, there is
truly something for everyone.
In the future, they would like to sell mufns and
organic coffee, and possibly rent a room out for crafts,
photo sessions, parties, etc...
You can visit the store in person at 201 State Street
in downtown Luther or join them on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/Luther.Trading.Post.
New Life To An Old Building
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 23
FREE Audiometric Testing. Call for your appointment today!
LONGS HEARING CARE SYSTEMS
3 Convenient
Locations:
Cadillac 1027 N. Mitchell St. 231-779-0400 Toll Free 1-800-286-1378
Traverse City 4000 Eastern Sky Drive 800-286-1378 (off Silver Lake Rd. & Copper Ridge)
Prudenville 1070 W. Houghton Lake Dr. 800-286-1378 (located in TDM Realtors North Building)
Featuring quality Hearing Aids.
The Worlds #1 Selling Hearing Aids.
Enjoy the Beautiful Sounds of Northern Michigan for Less.
A Lot Less.
SAVE 50% or more off MSRP on the latest hearing aid technology
Mike Long founded Longs Hearing
Care in 1986 with one simple goal in
mindto make hearing accessible
and affordable to everyone in a
comfortable family environment.
We dont want anyone feeling
intimidated by a corporate feeling,
said Mike. We want our customers
to feel at ease, so we take a sort of
family approach. We smile, joke and
have fun with our patients. We truly
love what we do.
After nearly 30 years in business,
the approach seems to be working.
By offering free hearing screenings
and free cleaning and service for life,
Longs has built a loyal customer
base.
The economy has been very
challenging, said Mike.But we are
thankful that we made it through the
worst of it and are still serving our
loyal customers.
Longs offers industry leading accessibility with
zero percent nancing and affordable payment plans,
making hearing accessible to everyone.
I have every intention to be the best at what I do
by offering the best products in the industry at better
prices than anyone else can offer, said Mike, who
points to a partnership with Starkey Hearing Aids in
2006 as his biggest period of growth.
Starkey is number one in the world, he said.
They are made in the USA and their technology leads
the industry.
But despite offering a better product and lower
prices, Mike admits that the competition can be tough.
With other hearing centers popping up here and there,
it can be confusing and tempting for customers to be
attracted to a shiny new store.
There have also been rumors that I plan to retire,
said Mike. I love what I do and I have no plans of
going anywhere anytime soon.
Mike and his Ofce Manger, Melissa DeLeon, can be
found at 1027 N. Mitchell Street in Cadillac or online at
www.longshearingcare.com.
A little clarity means good business
24 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
523 N. Mitchell, Downtown Cadillac 231.775.1810
Mon.-Thur. 11 AM-10 PM, Fri & Sat. 11 AM-11 PM, Sunday Closed
FOOD & SPIRITS
GREAT BURGERS, BURRITOS,
KIDS MENU & MORE!
Maggies Tavern is an
institutionthe kind of place
you came to with your family
as a child and now you enjoy it
with your children. Like Cheers,
its the kind of place where you
can walk in and everybody
knows your name. Simply put
Maggies is special.
The history of the building is
nearly as old as Cadillac itself
and shares its colorful past. If
the walls could talk, they might share
stories of young loggers enjoying a cold drink after a
hot day at the mill or perhaps they would describe the
apper-style dresses dancing the night away on the hard
maple oors in the basement.
Changes in ownership, cultural trends and design
styles have given Maggies a few makeovers throughout
the years, but for owners Margaret (Maggie) and Brian
Jones, the original look was the best look, so after they
purchased the building and Glenns Bar that occupied
it in 1983, they set out on a complete renovation and
Maggies Tavern was born.
We used to travel to a place in Traverse City that
had a casual atmospherethere were always families
there enjoying themselves, said Maggie. We thought
Cadillac could use a place like that.
Mission accomplished. Today Maggies is a favorite
among families and casual diners alike each asking the
same question and each assuming the same wrong answer:
Thats Maggie on the sign out front, right? Nope.
The picture is actually Maggies grandmother, Mamie.
She would be amused that we used her picture, said
Maggie. We wanted to maintain the Victorian feel of the
building and that picture worked well.
Maggies grandfather, co-owner of three lumberyards
in Wisconsin, visited Pleasant Lake in the early days
and fell in love with the area.
Without telling Mamie, he
literally bought the farm and
the story of Maggies in Cadillac
was set in motion.
Today, Maggies is serving its
third generation of customers.
Throughout that time, a few
things have remained constant:
Excellent food, a relaxed family
atmosphere and Phyllis Satterlee.
Phyllis is our shining star,
said Maggie. She started working
with us in high school at another business we owned and
signed on right away when we opened Maggies.
But Phyllis isnt the only long-term employee.
We have several other staff members that have
worked for us for more than 25 years, she said. I like
having a staff that depends on each other and works
together to create the kind of atmosphere we have here.
This proves one thing for sure. Something is working.
Perhaps its the relaxed environment or perhaps its the
guiding principles that Maggie has followed.
I believe anything worth doing is worth doing right,
she said. I also follow the Golden Rule that says, you
should do unto others as you would have them do unto
you. Lastly, I believe that you should make new friends
but keep the old because one is silver and the other gold.
The road taken has not always been smooth, however.
With such changes as the bypass of 131 around Cadillac,
and changes in the economy that have resulted in less
travelers to the area, Maggies has had slow times. But
in the end, it was the loyal locals and a good team that
helped get the business through those tough times and
will continue to do so in the future.
Maggies is open every day but Monday and is located
on the corner of North and Mitchell Streets in downtown
Cadillac.
A Family Restaurant, A Family Tradition.
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 25
STOP IN: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-5 pm Sat. 8:30 am-Noon Closed Sun.
We form our own metal!
Closed for Lunch 12-1 pm
7812 E. 14 Rd. (just west of Old US 131) Manton, MI 49663 231.824.9002
Buy Direct from Manufacturer Environmentally Friendly Less Labor
Quick Turnaround Non-Combustible Several Styles Available
40 Year Paint Warranty 19 Colors In Stock Cut to Your Size
Custom Trim All Accessories No Cut Charge Attractive
Low Prices Installation Available
CUT ENERGY COSTS - CHOOSE A METAL ROOF!
The Barn Hall - Manton, MI
In 2001, Tennessee resident, Simeon Petre,
relocated his family to the Manton area. Simeon
quickly realized that there was no business in the
area that specialized in metal roong and siding.
Experienced in the trade, Simeon was faced with a
simple decision and Manton Metal opened its doors.
As a family-run business, when Simeon decided
to become a full-time produce farmer in 2005, his
younger brother, John Mark, took over until 2009
when he decided to take over the other family
business, Cedar Creek Storage Barns. Fortunately,
another brother was waiting in the wings and
Joshua Petre and his brother-in-law, Conrad
Gingerich, took ownership. Conrad pursued his
dream of owning a dairy farm in 2012, leaving
Joshua as the sole proprietor. Today, younger brother,
Oren Petre, has begun working his way into ownership
of the business.
While so many changes in ownership may spell
trouble for other business, for the Petre family it was
nearly seamless.
One of the benets of working with family is that
changes in ownership are less felt by customers, said
Joshua, who currently employs ve people and deals
with homeowners and contractors on a daily basis.
We really want to remain customer friendly, he
said. By staying smaller we retain the ability to work
one-on-one with our customers rather than everyone
being just a number.
That method is not without its challenges, however,
as many customers may be rst time builders and
need a little extra help with their order.
Its challenging trying to explain things to new
customers over the phone, said Joshua. We really
appreciate it if they can come in so we can look
over things together and explain the options and
accessories available for their project.
While Manton Metal has been growing steadily
since 2001, a 2013 partnership with the John Troyer
family has had a tremendous impact on the business.
They began operating a roll former in the shop next
door to us, said Joshua. They form metal exclusively
for Manton Metal. Now a customer can place an order
for any color of metal and we can have it ready to pick
up in 3-4 hours.
With 19 colors of metal roong available with all the
trim and accessories, Manton Metal is your one-stop
shop for all of your metal roong and siding needs.
We stock the traditional pole barn style metal
siding, but we can get other styles with just a short
lead time, said Joshua.
Manton Metal is located at 7812 E. 14 Road in Manton
or you can reach them by phone at (231) 824-9002.
Traditional Values meets Modern Needs
26 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Your Snowmobile
Headquarters!
Martin
Power Sports
6620 E. M-115, Cadillac 876-2394 Just south of the lakes
WINTERIZE SHRINKWRAP
INDOOR & OUTDOOR STORAGE
We Service All Makes & Models From Tune Ups To Complete Rebuilds Pick Up & Delivery Available
Your Snowmobile
Headquarters!
Most business advisors would say that opening
a new business at the beginning of a recession is a
dangerous investment. Make it a recreation-based
business and its downright silly. But Doug Martin saw
an opportunity in 2007 and hasnt looked back.
I worked for a local Arctic Cat and Polaris dealer
that went out of business, said Martin. At the same
time, the Ski-Doo dealer went under as well. I saw
a great need in the community... the opportunity
presented itself and I took advantage.
Today, Martin Power Sports is Cadillacs premier
outlet for all things motor sports. From small engines
to power boats and everything in between Martin
Power Sports takes pride in its high level of customer
service.
The most important thing is to take care of the
customer, says Doug. In the winter months, Im on
duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The doors may
be closed but the phone is always on.
Its that level of dedication that has carried the
business through the tough economy and unfortunate
weather. But despite all the challenges, Doug wouldnt
change a thing.
I never really intended to be a business man,
he said. But I think what I like best is the level of
freedom that owning my own business offers.
Powered by Family
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 27
McBain Family Pharmacy
119 N. Roland St., McBain 231-825-8175
Hours: M-F 8:30-5:30, Sat. 8:30-1:00
Local Delivery Service
Fast & Friendly
Blister Packaging
All Major Insurance Carriers Accepted
Dr. Clayton Gilde, PharmD
Pharmacist/Owner
Know Your Medicine Know Your Pharmacist!
In the midst of a changing local economic
landscape, Clayton Gilde saw an opportunity
to make a difference in the lives of his
neighbors.
People were driving long distances to
get their prescriptions lled, said Clayton.
There were several instances where people
would tell me that they had to take a half day
off work just to go to the doctor and get their
prescriptions lled.
With few options for healthcare in town
and a pharmacy that had stopped serving the
area, residents of McBain and surrounding
areas were in a bind. So in October 2013,
McBain Family Pharmacy opened its doors
much to the delight of would-be customers.
We now have multiple caregivers in
McBain, and with our pharmacy here, the
need to take time off for these things is
minimized, said Clayton.
Opening a business was somewhat of a
natural thing for Clayton and his wife, who
both were raised in family businesses.
We were both raised in family businesses, he said.
We always valued the strong customer service they
could provide, whether it be in farming or masonry
work.
For Clayton, his pharmacy is a little different
than most in that everything is handled locally and
everyone is willing to lend a hand. These are some
of the benets of running a family business. Clayton
also prides himself on following one simple business
rule: everyone who walks through the door is treated
in the same way he would want to be treated. But
running a pharmacy is a little more tricky than other
businesses.
The healthcare climate is constantly changing, he
said. Everything is highly regulated.
Despite the challenges, McBain Family Pharmacy
is proud to be serving McBain and the surrounding
areas and looks forward to what the coming years
have to offer.
The pharmacy is located at 119 N. Roland Street in
McBain or you can reach them by phone at (231) 825-
8175.
Farm Town Pharmacy
28 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
115 N. Mitchell St. Cadillac
(231) 942-4800
Welcome
Northern Michigan
Quilters and Sewers
to our new store
located in
Downtown Cadillac
For Julie and Michael Dunkel, they are determined to
be successful business owners that provide merchandise
and services to Cadillac and surrounding communities.
Lifelong hobbyists, she is skilled in sewing, cross-
stitching, crocheting, matting and framing, and he a
woodworker, machinist, and graphic artist. Julie and
Michael are a match with their creativity. Married in
1992, the couple has channeled their passion for creating
into not one, but two businesses.
Michael is the owner of Dynamic Signs, a graphic
sign company which feeds his passion for design and
construction. Julie is a 2006 graduate of our own Baker
College here in Cadillac. She graduated with a Bachelor
Degree in Business Leadership with a concentration in
Accounting. Julie has turned her creative passion into
her employment. Northern Hearth Quilting & Sewing
Center opened its doors on July 3rd at 115 N. Mitchell St.
in downtown Cadillac.
While any new business is a challenge, Julie has formed
a strong team to surround her. My daughter Shannon is
an intricate part of the business and provides additional
support to the business, she said. We also have
Susan Wilcox and Diana Holik, who provide signicant
quilting expertise. These two women have wonderful
personalities, with enthusiasm for the craft and both will
be teaching classes this fall.
Mike is another powerful resource with his skills and
talents. He has become certied with Janome as an
authorized service technician and is repairing all sewing
machines for the business.
With Mikes woodworking talents, he made all the
cabinetry for the quilt store, she said. The dark chocolate
brown of the wood enhances the appearance of the store
and creates rich contrasts with the fabrics on display.
With the business so new, one of the early challenges
Julie faces is that she only has a small facility to serve
the needs of all the quilters that come from other areas.
Julie stated, The VanAlst family owns the building in
which Northern Hearth resides. The VanAlsts have a
strong commitment to downtown Cadillac and will be
making signicant adjustments to their sons business
Markur to provide my store additional space to
expand. This is a real family affair.
Julie has a passion for quilting and needle crafts and
an old fashioned approach to customer service, it wont
be long until Northern Hearth becomes a signicant
quilters destination in northern and central Michigan.
Her dream is to create a draw to Cadillac, for all
needlework projects. I want to build my business on
customer service. For far too long businesses have had
to strive for convenience, speed and price. I have always
felt strongly for quality and customer service at fair
pricing. I will pay a little more for those fundamentals.
I miss those winter days of the fuel pump attendant.
Customers come rst and their needs and wants are my
priority, she said.
You can visit Julie at her location at 115 North
Mitchell Street in downtown Cadillac or online at
www.nhquilting.com.
A Creative Life Leads To New Venture.
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 29
The Fun Starts Here!
Cadillacs Longest established RV Dealer for over 38 years
Fiberglass & Aluminum Truck Caps RV Parts & Accessories
Service On All RVs Hitches Wiring
CANT YOU
HEAR IT NOW?
This was
the best trip
ever!
Nomad Travel Trailers & 5th Wheels Travel Lite Truck Campers
Nomad Travel Trailers & 5th Wheels Travel Lite Truck Campers
See us now for
Fall Closeouts!
903 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac, MI 49601 231-775-3101 www.northlandtrailer.net
Northland Trailers in Cadillac is truly a labor of love
a love thats spanned more than 45 years.
In 1968, Muskegon natives Everett and Nancy Rowe
decided to take their love for camping and the up
north lifestyle and turn it into a business. The plan
was simple, they would move north and start selling
campers. The simple idea worked.
Nearly 50 years after they opened their doors, Everett
and Nancy have created a strong business and lasting
legacy in Cadillac. Now semi-retired, their son, Mike
Rowe (not that Mike Rowe), has taken the wheel.
By working together, we are able to take time off on
weekends and even enjoy a vacation now and then,
said Nancy. Being closer to the U.P., we have taken
several trips to the Upper Peninsula and Canada.
But dont expect the Rowes to disappear any time
soon. After moving to Cadillac so many years ago, they
have become part of the fabric of the town.
We have become known to the community over the
years, said Nancy. And we have made a lot of friends
here.
With those rm roots, and the help of their son, Mike,
the Rowes and Northland Trailers are sure to remain a
part of the Cadillac landscape.
Northland Trailers is located at 903 N. Mitchell Street
or online at northlandtrailer.net.
Pulling A Great Life
30 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
118 N. Michigan Ave., Big Rapids
231.796.2502
www.theoldpioneerstore.com
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Friday-Saturday 9:00 AM-10:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM-7:00 PM
The moment you walk into the Old
Pioneer Store and Emporium you are
transported to a time, when Big Box
stores and cheap products were a thing
of the future. You may also experience
drooling and an unexplainable force
pulling you toward the counter but well
get to that shortly.
With a unique collection of gifts
thats as diverse as those who might
purchase them, The Old Pioneer truly has
something for everyone. Oh, and if youre
into the Christmas thing, you can feed that addiction all year
long with an entire wing of the store dedicated to Christmas
ornaments and other holiday dcor.
At the entrance of the store, you are forced to make
your way through Kilwins, a full service chocolatier and ice
cream shop. The smell of melting chocolate, fresh fudge,
caramel corn and the allure of custom ice cream avors
unique to Kilwins will make it difcult for you to make
your way to the main store. Most people nd themselves
stopping at the fully restored 1800s soda fountain for taste,
a smell, a look and perhaps a quick soda.
Ice Cream Sodas are what we are famous for, said Brian
Rose, who shares a grin while he makes a chocolate soda.
The fountain was recently recognized as one of the top
places in Michigan to get an ice cream treat by MLIVE.
For Carlleen, the joy she sees on the faces of customers
when they sample one of Brians creations is one of the
best parts of her job.
I love seeing all of the ice cream mustaches on the kids
faces, she said. Blue Moon and Superman seem to be the
kids favorites!
Although The Old Pioneer and Kilwins are technically
separate business, the entire experience is a family effort.
Brian manages the Kilwins Kitchen where delicious award
winning fudge, caramel corn, candy and other confections
are made daily right in the front window of the shop.
Brian and Carlleen Rose own both business, but
contribute much of their success to their
hard working and creative staff.
We couldnt do it without them, said
Carlleen. There is so much to do here and
we all work together to make it work.
Recently recognized by TV 9&10 as fans
choice for best Northern Michigan Gift
Shop, The Old Pioneer and Emporium
is far larger inside than it appears from
the street and features many of the top
rated gifts in the market today. The store
also has all the staples such as Yankee
Candles, Crabtree and Evelyn toiletries and a year-round
four season room that is a customer favorite.
We delight in nding great gifts that are practical,
useful and are guaranteed to work, said Carlleen. Our
Michigan shop features a huge variety of Michigan made
gifts that celebrate this great state we live in. You can also
nd gag gifts, unique furniture, wedding, clothing, fashion
accessories, a large jewelry section and a four seasons room
that celebrates all of the seasons and holidays all year long.
To further meet the needs of their customers, both shops
offer such services as shipping, local delivery and the ever
popular free gift wrapping. The Kilwins shop also does
many eld trips during the year and has bus tours where
people traveling to and from up north stop for an ice cream
treat and tour the historic downtown.
In addition to serving their customers, Carlleen and Brian
also believe in giving back to the community that supports
their business. They hold two fundraising events in their
store every month to benet different organizations and
Carlleen is one of the founders of The Band of Locals
an organization that celebrates small business and teaches
about the importance of supporting your local businesses
to keep small communities vibrant and interesting.
The Old Pioneer Store and Emporium and Kilwins
Chocolates is located in the heart of downtown Big Rapids
and is open seven days and evenings all year long. You can
also nd them online at www.theoldpioneerstore.com.
One Sweet Gift Shop
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 31
PILGRIM VILLAGE FISHING SHOP
Fishing Tackle Shop and Bait Store M-115 (across from Mitchell State Park), Cadillac
www.pilgrimvillageshing.com 775-5412
Cozy & Private Cottages Perch/Crappie Minnows
Leeches & Wigglers Leaf Worms & Waxworms
Boats & Motors Walleye & Pike Minnows
Crawlers Fishing Licenses
Open 7 Days
7 AM-11 PM!
Fishing
Licenses
SOLD
HERE
Located on the sandy beaches of Lake Mitchell,
Pilgrim Village Resort is the perfect environment
for a recreational resort. But that wasnt always the
intended purpose.
It was built in 1946 and was supposed to be a Baptist
Summer Retreat. The original owners wanted a place
for family vacations but there was just too much
maintenance, so they sold it.
Today, with 16 cottages and seven motel rooms,
the resort serves as a year-around Oasis for outdoor
enthusiasts.
We provide everything but the sh, jokes Steve
Knaisel, Pilgriam Village owner. But with four docks
for boaters, sandy beaches, a full service shing shop,
boat rentals and accommodations for large groups,
Pilgrim Village truly has it all.
We started Pilgrim Village Fishing Shop from
scratch in 2000, because we felt there was a need for a
full-line tackle and bait shop to serve anglers shing
on Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell, said Steve.
Today, with the help of his wife, Sue, Paul Class,
Debbie Yonkman, Harrison Krants and Karl
Liebetrau, Pilgrim Village provides accommodations
for snowmobilers, hunters, shermen, mushroomers,
skiers and anyone else who wishes to enjoy the
wonderful outdoor activities that northern Michigan
has to offer.
Located on M-115 on the shores of Lake Mitchell,
Pilgrim Village can also be found online at www.
pilgrimvillageshing.com.
Up North Retreat
805 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac 231-775-3307 Like Us on Facebook
Renewable Energy Systems
Conservation Products
Energy Effciency Products
Whether youre thinking
about Solar Electric, Solar
Thermal or just general
energy conservation we have
all the options you need.
Todd Mangan spent nearly 23 years
honing his skills in the Coast Guard
before starting his own company in 2014.
Though he had always intended to be in
the family business, he had no idea
that business would involve alternative
energy.
While serving in the Coast Guard,
Todd was an electronic technician
working on a wide variety of systems
including solar power, used on light
houses and remote communications
systems. After retiring, he realized
that those skills could translate to the
private sector and he saw a tremendous
need in the areano one was doing it.
We are the only ones around, said
Todds wife, Wendy Mangan, who
helps run the company. We got into
this because we wanted to help people
become more self-reliant.
From schools, municipalities and
recreation areas to the single residential customer,
alternative energy can help reduce our reliance on
fossil fuels and ultimately improve our quality of life.
Its a great investment in your home, said Wendy.
It increases the resale value and reduces your
reliance on the grid when you have a battery back-up
or a complete off-grid system.
With any new industry, there is a need to educate
customers on the benets and particulars of the
product. A lot of questions surround the alternative
energy eld and Todd and Wendy are prepared to
answer those questions.
We plan to have education classes in the fall and
winter, said Wendy. One thing people dont realize is
how simple these systems are to install. Its basically
a DIY project aside from the need for an electrician for
the nal hook up.
While any new business is challenging, for Todd and
Wendy, working together is bittersweet.
One of the benets of a family business is getting
to work together, said Wendy. But its also one of the
biggest challenges.
Reliable Solar can be found online at www.
reliablesolar.net or in person at 805 N. Mitchell Street
in Cadillac.
An Alternative Approach
32 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Where Her Wedding Dreams Come True
114 S. MICHIGAN AVE., DOWNTOWN BIG RAPIDS 231-796-7743 RogersJewelersMI.com
More than 65 years ago,
Harold and Inez Rogers saw
a need for a trusted, local
jeweler in the area and
sought to satisfy that need.
Rogers Jewelers opened its
doors in Evart in 1948.
Today, owners John
and Susan Miedema are
ensuring the spirit created
by Harold and Inez all those
years continues today.
We really want to
remain true to the founding
tradition of selling the
highest quality jewelry and
providing unsurpassed in-
house jewelry repairs, said
John, who began working
for the company in 1987
and ultimately bought
the business from Harold
and Inezs daughter,
Mary Ann Pritchard, and
her husband, Bill, in 2007.
The Pritchards had taken
over from the Rogers in
the 1970s and relocated
the business to Big Rapids
where it remains today.
Taking over a jewelry
business in the middle of a
struggling economy would
appear to be a risky move.
People still need an honest and
intelligent source for ne jewelry
and to have quality, professional
repairs done, said John. One of
my favorite quotes is: Due to the
economy, we will continue to sell
ne jewelry.
With a dedicated team made up
of Beth Everin, Tammy Cummings,
Lori Maneke and Katie Verrill,
Rogers Jewelers now serves
multiple generations of customers.
Our team members are long-time
employees who take pride in their
products and the overall business,
said John. The commitment
and continuity of the staff is
important to build relationships
with our customers. Its also an
accomplishment and a great
honor to serve customers who
are second and third generation
customers.
Rogers Jewelers can be
found at 114 S. Michigan
Avenue in downtown Big
Rapids and offers the largest
bridal selection in the area in
addition to their gold buying,
custom design and production
services and their full line of
Vera Bradley purses, bags
and accessories.
Diamonds and Dreams
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 33
STEVE

S TIRE SERVICE, Inc.


STEVE VANHOUTEN
Keeping You Rolling
On Site Service
Forestry, Off-Road, Trucks & Farm
231-825-2196
9190 W. County Line Road
Marion, Michigan 49665
The year was 1974 and 16-year-
old Steve VanHouten had an
idea. After his father sold the
family business, Steve saw a
need for on-site tire services for
area farmers who needed their
tires repaired or replaced. With
spare time after school and on
weekends and armed with a
pickup and an air compressor,
Steve went to work and Steves
Tire Service was born.
Steve is celebrating his 40th
year in business this year and
business just keeps growing.
There will always be a need
for tires and repairs because
tires wear out, said Steve. We also provide
education for our employees to keep up to date and we
have made equipment changes to go along with the
needs of our customers.
The company also constructed a building addition in
2013 as well as on-site ofce space.
The past 15 years have been our biggest growth
period, said Steve, who still runs the business with
his wife, Brenda. But we have steadily grown over
40 years.
Joining the team are the couples son and his wife,
Chad and Kalleena VanHouten, and Steves brother,
Dan making Steves Tire truly a family affair.
But working with family, in addition to employees
Scott Oeverman and Joe Roberts, is not always easy.
For Steve, delegation of duties, sharing responsibilities
and just letting go, is a major challenge of the job.
But the benets outweigh the drawbacks for the
VanHouten family, who appreciate that they get to
share the experiences and knowledge with one another.
Steve also appreciates the support of family and friends
over the years.
When asked what separates his business from that
of other tire service companies, Steve emphasized that
his company provides on-site services. Whether its
in the eld, in the forest or on the road, Steve says that
no job is too big or too small for him and his employees.
Our goal is to provide our customers with
professional service in a timely manner that will keep
them rolling on their way, said Steve.
Steves Tire is located on County Line Road in Marion
and can be reached via phone at (231) 825-2196.
Keeping Customers Rolling
34 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
The Sweet Shop
Cadillacs Original Handmade Candy,
Fudge, Caramel Corn and Ice Cream Shop
Home of the Snowbird

!
www.sweetshop4u.com Like Us on Facebook
111 S. Mitchell, Downtown Cadillac (231) 775-2201 or (888) 775-8880
Fresh Fudge Made Daily Snowbirds
Dont forget your corporate orders for Christmas or Anytime!
Milk, Dark & White Chocolate Candy Bark Caramel Cream Candies
Specialty Popcorns Sugar Free Candies Nuts & More!
Take a walk through downtown Cadillac and youll
inevitably catch the aroma of freshly popped popcorn
or mouth-watering chocolate. Follow your nose and
youll nd The Sweet Shop, Cadillacs premier candy
shop since 1961.
Founded by Gracie McKellop in 1961, in 1982 Paul and
Helen Beardsley took over ownership and later sold it
their daughter, Janeen Russell, in 2002.
I had been a beautician in town for many years, she
said. I was just ready for something different, so when
my parents put the shop up for sale, I took a leap.
Part of the allure of the family business for Janeen is
that her kids were able to grow up
working in the store.
My daughter Jasmine, grew
up here, she said. Before she
graduated from MSU and left to
start her career, she trained the
rest of the staff on making fudge
and caramel corn.
Her son, JP, on the other hand,
didnt stray too far from home.
In 2013, he became partners with
Janeen and opened a second
location in Saugatuck, Michigan
with plans to open a third location
in the near future.
Aside from her children being
part of the business, Janeen points to her dedicated
employees who have become part of The Sweet Shop
family.
With this business, all of the employees have
become family. Without them, The Sweet Shop
couldnt continue.
From the hand-crafted homemade candies, to the
caramel popcorn, fudge, chocolates and caramel apples,
Janeen tries to use only fresh, Michigan products.
No story about The Sweet
Shop would be complete without
mentioning the Snowbirds
The Sweet Shops claim to
fame. Snowbirds are among
the many recipes that are
original to the store, and have
been shipped all over the world.
Snowbirds were created in honor of our summer
residents who just cant wait to get back to Cadillac and
get their hands on some of these goodies, said Janeen.
Located on Mitchell Street in downtown Cadillac,
The Sweet Shop welcomes walk-in guests and offers
a friendly atmosphere and a Snowbird sample. If
you happen to have a sweet tooth and cant make it
to Cadillac, you can nd The Sweet Shop online at
www.sweetshop4u.com or simply call 1-888-775-8880.
A Sweet Life
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 35
231.775.6751
5535 E. M-115, Cadillac
www.timberscadillac.com
Welcome to
The Timbers loves Michigan! We feature
at any time up to 7 craft beers on tap.
Updated weekly, come in and
see what we are offering today!
We feature Chef inspired specials for
lunch and dinner. Call ahead or check our
Facebook page for daily specials, soup du
jour or to see whats special today!
The Timber Restaurant would love to
help you host your next birthday party,
corporate event or meeting event! We can
provide menus, space and great service.
For Bob and Sheryl Lorenz, the recipe was simple
provide a friendly environment with great food and
youll be successful.
For nearly 25 years, the Lorenz family has done just
that and The Timbers has become one of Cadillacs
favorite eateries.
When Bob and Sheryl moved from Hersey, PA in
1991, they brought with them the love of good food and
old things, plus Grandma and Papa gave them all the
junk they no longer needed. Also over the years,
many great customers have brought in stuff to hang
on the walls so everything has a story.
From its origins as an 85-seat bar to a family style,
made from scratch restaurant, The Timbers has seen
a lot of growth over the years.
We remodeled in 2000, said Travis Lorenz, who,
along with siblings, Roman and Shayne, took over after
Bob and Sheryl retired. This was our biggest period
of growth and changed the nature of our business.
The years havent been without challenges, but
for the restaurant industry it has been particularly
hard. But a commitment to quality food, great service
and the ability to adapt to changing business trends
coupled with a passion for good food has kept The
Timbers running smoothly.
Grandma and Grandpa, uncles, cousins, grandkids,
our entire family, lives and breathes food, says Travis.
Weve done what we needed to do to survive the down
times. If being the boss means being the guy that
wears 10 hats, then thats what we do.
Ideally situated on M-115, The Timbers enjoys
traveling customers as well as a dedicated number of
locals. Balancing out the roadhouse, country feeling
is the elegance of good wine, 10 Michigan brews on
tap, ne food and great service.
The Timbers welcomes walk-in diners and can be
found online at www.timberscadillac.com.
A Country Roadhouse
With A Touch of Class
36 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
For Nicki Schultz, owning a business is a labor
of love. With a passion for working with children
of all ages and a lifetime of experience doing so,
purchasing a toy store was an easy decision. So
when Toy Town in Cadillac went up for sale in 2013,
she and her husband, Ryan, jumped on it.
Founded in 2008 by the VanDrie family, Toy Town
quickly became the go-to haunt for Cadillacs grade
school crowd and continues to be a place to go for
whimsical fun and that special gift for the child in
your life and Nicki wouldnt have it any other way.
Our mission statement is to HAVE FUN!
said Nicki. and to give back to our wonderful
community.
Giving back is a big part of what Toy
Town does throughout the year. From Toy
Trot in November to selling lemonade
in the summer to benet See it. Hear it.
Stop it. Toy Town spends a lot of time and
money giving back.
Of course we want to make a prot,
she said. But more importantly we want
to help the children in our community. As
a small business, cash is always tight, so
we try to nd creative ways to help whenever we can.
While the Christmas season is its most important time
of the year economically, Nicki has been pleased with
how well the business has done this year.
We have seen growth month by month since the snow
has melted away, said Nicki. We encourage people
to come in and enjoy themselves. To stay and play. We
really want people to see the quality of toys available in
downtown Cadillac.
One of the biggest challenges for an independent
toy story owner is the perception that they are more
expensive than the big box stores.
We have every toy competitively priced, said Nicki.
We encourage people to shop around. They will see that
we have better toys and better prices.
But that isnt the only challenge
facing the small business owner.
For the Schultz family there isnt
anyone else to call when a problem occurs.
You need to have the ability to nd a creative and
affordable solution and keep on going. All while keeping
a smile on your face, said Nicki who thinks these
lessons and the process of running a business is a good
education for her children.
Austin, Connor and Clarabelle get to learn how to run
a business and, more importantly, get to see what it takes
to make your dreams come true, she said.
You can find Nicki, maybe her kids and their
dog, Louie Peanutbutter, at Toy Town on Mitchell
Street in downtown Cadillac or online at www.
toytowncadillac.com.
Ride-Ons
Puzzles
Games
Outdoor Fun
Stuffed Animals
Trains & Trucks
Dress Up
Playmobil
& Hobby & Hobby
231.775.TOYS (8697) 122 S. Mitchell St. (Elks Bldg.), Downtown Cadillac
Mon.-Wed. & Sat. 10 AM-5:30 PM, Th/Fri 10 AM-7 PM Open Sundays Memorial DayNew Years
Shop local in-store and now on-line too! www.toytowncadillac.com
New Tech Kites
Science Kits
Dolls & Accessories
Educational Toys
Art & Craft Kits
Melissa & Doug
Classic Toys
Hobby Too!
Fun For The Whole Family
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 37
THE
ULTIMATE
GIFT
Where there is purpose
in the present.
111 N. Mitchell Street, Cadillac theultimategiftstop.com 231.468.3250
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
UNIQUE LOCAL
INSPIRATIONAL
We carry gifts for all occasions including
Love Michigan and Cherry Republic.
Gifts of delight and gifts to inspire.
Sheila was searching
for a place to hold prayer
meetings and offer
encouragement to others.
That search ended in the
form of a new business,
The Ultimate Gift Shop, in
downtown Cadillac.
Though Sheila didnt
always intend to go into a
family business, she knew
she could count on her family
to support her.
Part of the benet of being
in a family business is that
they are part of it, right there
in heart and soul, said Sheila.
My biggest supporter behind
the scenes is my husband, Jim.
He encourages me daily to go
beyond what I can imagine.
In addition to her husband,
Sheila also gets more tangible
help from her mother, Nancy,
who Sheila describes as a
huge blessing. She can
often be found in the store
rearranging merchandise or
elsewhere running errands.
More recently, her 12-year-
old granddaughter, Faith, has
begun learning to run the
cash register and shares her
excitement when she sees
something new in the
store.
While her business
deals in products such as
Love Michigan Apparel
and Cherry Republic
Foods, her approach to
running it is decidedly
spiritual.
Whatever we do, we
must glorify God in
some way, she said.
We love to give back
to various groups
and people and we
patronize
vendors who do, too. Ultimate
Gifts is rst about spiritual inspiration.
The things we sell, the gift shop, is a way
to support that in a real world way.
What you may nd surprising about
The Ultimate Gift shop is that you will
nd gifts hand-crafted by local artisans.
One of the challenges Sheila faces on
a daily basis is the realization that she
cant x injustice.
I do what I can to help encourage
individuals to keep their focus and trust
in the Lord, she said. Its not power or
strength, but his spirit that leads me.
You can join Sheila for one of her
weekly prayer meetings or teaching
sessions at her shop in downtown
Cadillac. Feel free to call Sheila to join.
A Spiritual Journey
38 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
WE CARRY A
COMPLETE LINE
OF JOHN DEERE
TRACTORS.

4363 S. Morey Road Lake City
231-839-8660
18880 Northland Drive Big Rapids
231-796-6302
Voelker Implement Sales
has been a family owned and
operated business for more
than 60 years.
John Voelker and his friend,
Eldon Zimmerman, founded
the company in 1951. When the
John Deere dealership in Big
Rapids burned down that year,
John saw it as an opportunity to
go into business. They bought
the property and opened
shop. They went by Voelker &
Zimmerman, until Voelker assumed full ownership of
the company ve years later.
Before he was a successful entrepreneur, John
Voelker was a successful student. He attended
Michigan State University, and graduated with a
degree in farm equipment management in 1951.
It didnt take him long after graduation to start a
business of his own.
For many years, Voelker Implement Sales operated
out of a single location in Big Rapids. The kids
eventually took the reigns in Big Rapids, and in 2002,
the family purchased the dealership in Lake City, and
opened the second location of Voelker Implement Sales.
With Johns kids running the two branches, the
company is still going strong. Joe and Tim Voelker,
along with Mary and Mike Davison, hold down the
fort at the Big Rapids branch. Bill and Kerry Voelker
keep things going smoothly at the Lake City location.
The third generation of the family, Michael Jr. and
Megan Biller, has also begun working in Big Rapids.
Dad taught us that if we work hard, work with
integrity and be honest, wed be successful, said
Mary.
Their loyalty to their customers is reciprocated, too.
Their customers have become friends of the family,
creating a culture of trust and understanding. Their
longevity being family owned and operated for more
than 60 years and the mutual loyalty between them
and their customers has made Voelker Implement
Sales a business like no other.
The Voelkers believe that family is their core
strength. It sets them apart from other businesses in
their eld, and gives them an advantage when it comes
to the day-to-day tasks. They have a lot of family
members working together who share the same goal
to make Voelker Implement Sales successful.
There are always ups and downs, said Bill, but
we get through it together.
Voelker Implement is located at 4363 South Morey
Road in Lake City, and at 18880 Northland Drive in
Big Rapids. You can also visit them online at www.
voelkerimplement.com.
Decades of Growth and Success
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 39
M-115 & West M-55, Cadillac 231-775-7599
Open 7 Days a Week Until 8 PM
Walravens Country
Garden Fruit Markets
Bring in the Big Bucks
BULK:
Sugar Beets and Carrots $4/Bag or 10 Bags for $35
Bulk Feed Available Shelled Corn Available By The Bag
We
Accept
Credit
Cards
& EBT
In the early 60s Bill
and Marlene Walraven
of Bay City dreamed of
moving up north. In 1963
they were able to realize
that dream and opened
Walravens Country
Garden in Harrison.
In the following years,
they raised a family
and enjoyed life in
the family business.
It makes sense then,
that their children
might follow in their
footsteps and they
did just that. Bill and
Marlene retired in 1985 and handed
the keys over to the their sons, Tim
and Bill Walraven who purchased the
market outright and continue to operate
the business to this day.
After taking over, Tim and Bill
decided to expand by opening a second
market in Gladwin in 1987. Tragedy
struck in 1988 when a re destroyed the
original Harrison market, forcing them
to rebuild from the ground up. When
they decided to sell the Gladwin market the
time was right to expand into a new area. The Cadillac
market opened its doors in 1989 and has been providing
top quality produce and garden related products ever
since.
Walravens markets are experiencing their best
sales in recent years thanks to renewed interest in
fresh, local produce, and theyve even added a meat
market to their Cadillac Store. Along with the new
additions, more family members
have joined the team.
Bills wife, Rayelynn, and their
children, Jesse, Jake and Justice,
as well as Tims wife Debra and
their sons William and Kyle have
all been part of the business in
recent years .
For the Walravens, working
with family everyday is one of
the benets of owning a family
business. Its also one of the challenges.
There are challenges but the family agrees on one
thing providing great service and high quality
produce in a friendly atmosphere is the most
important part of their business.
Walravens Country Garden Fruit Market is located
on corner of M-115 & west M-55 in Cadillac West and
can be reached at (231) 775-7599.
A Growing business
40 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
DRIVE THRU
Pointe West Mall M-55 & M-115 (231) 468-3440
Open 6:30 AM-5 PM Monday-Friday, 8 AM-4 PM Weekends
Gift Certicates Available
Join us in our comfortable living room style shop
for great coffee and tea, terrifc baked goods -
including delicious scones and many breakfast
and lunch items. Youll love our homemade soup!
Your morning coffee is a drive thru away!
Come take a break with us!
Cadillacs Best Coffee & Tea
Clay and Sheryl Blanchard saw a
need for a coffee shop in Cadillac West
and decided to spend their retirement
building a business. Sadly, in the process
of preparing the business to open, Clay
passed away unexpectedly. But, with the
support of family and friends, Sheryl
forged ahead and WestEnd Coffee and
Tea opened its doors in April 2013.
While family is still a fundamental
part of the business, its the honorary
family that Sheryl has adopted/hired to
help her with the day-to-day operation of
the business.
We have a retired person who loves lattes and meeting
new people, a college student and a couple of ladies
that enjoy baking that creates the warmth in a friendly
atmosphere, said Sheryl. We all work together to make
this a family business.
A retired rst-grade teacher, Sheryl thought she would
run the coffee shop as a nice transition out of the hustle
and bustle of a busy academic schedule. What she found
is that running a business is just as much work and just
as rewarding as teaching. The regular customers have
become friends of the staff at Westend Coffee.
Now instead of giving time outs to 6-year-olds for
bad behavior, I offer a time out to busy adults with good
coffee and a friendly atmosphere, said Sheryl.
As a retired teacher, its only tting that Sheryl has
created an environment that appeals to other teachers
and looks forward to hosting meetings and gatherings for
other retired educators in addition to the yarn spinning
club, greeting card class and other groups that already
call the shop home.
WestEnd is continually adding to its menu. The store
has several gluten-free soups, sandwich options and
cookies. In addition to their regular line of smoothies,
the store offers two all natural fruit and veggie smoothies
for the health- conscious customers. Homemade soups
change seasonally, currently, butternut squash bisque is
being featured in the weekly line-up.
As a tea shop, this fall we would love to host tea parties
that highlight all the teas we have available and serve them
with traditional tea sandwiches and pastries, she said.
While WestEnd Coffee and Tea isnt the only coffee
shop in town, it is the only one with a drive-thru service
as well as a dine-in option that serves gourmet coffee.
Add espresso, loose leaf teas, smoothies, homemade
soups and sandwiches and you have a menu to satisfy any
need. Throw in baked goods such as mufns, doughnuts,
cookies, cakes, homemade granola bars and scones, and
you have a menu that will not only satisfy a need but one
that makes people smile and keep coming back for more.
WestEnd Coffee is located in Cadillac West on the
corner of M-55 & M-115 in the Pointe West Mall. They
can be reached at (231) 468-3440.
Brewing Up A Good Business
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 41
Wexford Jewelers 801 N. Mitchell St., Cadillac 775-1289 wexfordjewelers.com
YES!
Artistic entrepreneurs Karen Roncari and the
late Angelo Roncari were living the life of nomads
with businesses in Michigan, Ohio and Arizona. The
snowbird lifestyle had grown tiresome and they simply
wanted to be back in their hometown of Cadillac. To
that end they established Wexford Jewelers in 1995
and have been serving the community ever since.
From custom designed, hand carved pieces to
heirlooms and antiques, Wexford Jewelers stands out
among jewelers in the area.
Excellence in your entire experience from friendly
customer service to unsurpassed quality in ne
jewelry is our goal. said Keith Terwilliger Although,
with our passion being in design, we are truly a full
service jeweler. Repair and antique restorations,
buying and selling precious metals, manufacturing
our very own lines of jewelry, selling retail at our
local location as well as shipping all over the world
through our E-commerce service.
Having opened the doors at the height of the booming
economy in the 1990s, Angelo and Karen passed the
torch to their daughters Emily, Julie and Sarah just
before the recession started. But despite the struggling
economy, the business continued to grow a testament
to the way they do business.
We always treat people right and go above and
beyond. said Keith, who joined the business to work
with his wife, Julie. We dont look at it as closing a sale
but as establishing a relationship.
Wexford Jewelers is truly a family affair, the sisters
and their husbands have all contributed to the success
with their perspective gifts and talents. Today the in
store operations are shared between Keith and Julie
Terwilliger, Emily and Jason Nichols and oor manager,
Kathryn Troyer with the continued support of their
mother, retired business founder Karen Roncari. Sarah
Christenson still designs and assists with online sales
from her studio in Glendale, Arizona.
It can be challenging because we all want a family
legacy, but how we get there is where our ideas can
sometimes clash. said Keith. Despite the challenges,
the family insists its all worth it. Having a close family
and staff and knowing that we all want the best for each
other is a key factor in our success.
Whatever theyre doing, it must be working because
Wexford Jewelers is experiencing some of its best years
in business, both online and in store.
One of our biggest accomplishments is serving
people around the world from right here in Cadillac.
said Keith.
Adjusting to the changing economic climate and new
industry trends was important for our business to stay
competitive.
Wexford Jewelers is located on Mitchell Street
in Cadillac or you can shop online at www.
wexfordjewelers.com.
A Jewel Of A Family
42 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
Hardwood Flooring Trim Moulding T&G Paneling
Ash Cherry Hickory Maple Oak Poplar Alder
Locally Made Products to customize your home or business!
407 Goode Ave., Cadillac 231-876-WOOD (9663) wexfordwoodworkings.com
SERVING THE AREA FOR OVER 13 YEARS Owner: Mary F. Stark
Custom & Affordable Woodworking & Milling
Quality craftsmanship
and the nest
materials make every
project a masterpiece
for your home.
David and Mary Stark didnt spend years planning
and dreaming about their business. In fact, they hadnt
really thought much about it at all until they tried to
hire someone to produce some custom millwork for
their new home.
We were planning to build a new home in 1999 and
visited a local woodworking shop to inquire about them
milling some trim for our house, said Mary. They said
they were about to go out of business and needed a buyer
they couldnt ll our order.
The Starks became the buyers the previous owners
were looking for and Wexford Wood Workings was born
while the Starks new home was put on hold.
Sometimes it feels like the business has become our
new home with all the time we spend here, she said.
For the Starks, it has been an uphill climb since day
one but that has meant steady growth. The last few years
have been the hardest, however, with a tough economy
and little building taking place anywhere. But Mary
refuses to let that get her down.
My nature is not one of giving up, she said. I hope
all my hard work will pay off if not for David and I,
then at least for our children and grandchildren.
For the Starks, working as a family hasnt been
difcult, but requires coordination of schedules and a
lot of work after hours.
Our son, Brad, is our primary machinist, said
Mary. But he only works as needed after he works his
regular shift for another company. A lot of our work
takes place outside of the regular business hours as well,
especially when it comes to research, bookkeeping and
maintenance/ repair work.
The nature of the business creates a situation where
every day is unique and depends upon the specic project
on which the team is working. On any given day, they
might be working on custom millwork for a new home,
creating custom parts for Rec-Boat Holdings, replicating
traditional trim on a historic home restoration project
or any other request that comes through the door.
The Starks cant do all this alone. Theyve hired one
full-time and two part-time employees to help out.
We couldnt do it without them, said Mary.
But its important to the Starks that every customer
feels like their project is important, no matter how big
or small.
Every customer, and their particular project, is just
as special to us as it is to them, said Mary. We want a
satised customer.
To that end, every project is a custom job.
Everything is made-to-order; we dont have any
nished or milled inventory on hand, said Mary.
We work with the customer in the selection of their
pattern, size and species of wood. We mill once the
specics are determined.
Wexford Wood Workings is located at 407
Goode Avenue in Cadillac and online at www.
wexfordwoodworkings.com. They can also be reached
by calling (231) 876-WOOD (9663).
Locally Made Products
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 43
Yoders
OF TUSTI N
20030 200th Ave., Tustin (1/3 Mile West of Exit 168)
Open Year Round: Mon.-Sat. 8 AM-5 PM
BULK FOODS BAKERY DELI RUSTI C FURNI TURE
Deli Sandwiches Made w/Our Homemade Bread
Donuts Made Fresh Every Saturday & Sunday
If you have not yet heard of Yoders of Tustin, you
certainly will.
A brand new store in 2014, Yoders is quickly
becoming a go to venue for baked goods, deli food and
rustic furniture. Centered around locally produced
goods, a product purchased from Yoders couldnt be
more fresh.
We carry lots of different local items, said
Ferman Yoder. Our furniture is locally made. We
have beds, dressers, benches, tables and chairs,
outdoor furniture and much more. We also have corn
from a local farmer and were actively seeking more
local suppliers.
From their specialty homemade bread to their
farm raised meats and cheeses, Yoders is truly a
fresh food paradise.
The bakery really fullled a need in this
community, said Ferman. We have homemade
doughnuts on Fridays and Saturdays and we make
sandwiches with our homemade bread that we sell
in our deli.
Although Ferman had always been in the family
business, the time was right to get something going
in Tustin.
We saw a need for a family-run tourist attraction
in the community, said Ferman, who began the
business with help from Junior Coblentz and LaMar
Miller.
With so much buzz about Yoders in Tustin, a tourist
attraction may be just what they have created.
Yoders is located on 200th Ave in Tustin or can be
reached via phone at 829-3023
A Bakery Off the Beaten Path
44 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
YODER SUPPLIES
Marvin Yoder, Owner 14213 180th Ave., LeRoy, Michigan 231-768-4387
Directions: From Reed City go north on 131 to Exit 162 (LeRoy Exit) Go right, stop sign, left on Mackinaw Trail
go 200 ft., turn right on 14 Mile Rd., go 2 1/4 miles to 180th, left on 180th, 1st house located on left-hand side
FEEDS/GRAINS
Pet Feed / Bird Feed
METAL ROOFING & SIDING
Central States, Mfg.
American Building Supplies Custom Trims
Pick Your Profle ~ Choose Your Color
CALL FOR PRICING
Yoders Supplies in LeRoy began almost by
accident. Marvin and Anna Marie Yoder began
grinding their own feed for their personal farm
when friends and neighbors began asking to
purchase their product. In 1995, the need for a
new building for their feed allowed them to go
into business in earnest. For the Yoders the
rest is just part of Gods plan.
As the feed business grew, neighbors began
asking for other products, namely metal
for their building projects. As a result, the
business continued to grow and the new
building was no longer big enough.
So in 2004, the Yoders moved the
business and the family to LeRoy
and continued to grow.
Today, two to three delivery
trucks leave the shop in a given
week. Yoders offers metal, custom
trim, nails, ice and water shield
and other roong supplies. Garage
and shop doors are also supplied
to customers in LeRoy and the
surrounding areas.
Despite their success selling
metal roong and trim, the Yoders
havent abandoned the service that
put them in business in the rst place.
We stock feed for pigs, cows, horses, chickens, calves,
goats and more, said Sara Yoder, ofce manager. We
also sell all kinds of corn, oats and straw, and chicks,
ducks, guineas, turkeys and pheasants in the spring
and summer.
But thats not all. In the summer and fall, the Yoders
sell fresh cherries, blueberries, peaches, pears, plums,
apples and more.
Running such a diverse business isnt without its
challenges. With something always
going on or something new coming
into season, it makes it difcult
to get away. With Amos and Jacob
making trim on Tuesdays and
Fridays and Amos helping Marvin
grind feed the remainder of the
time and Sara handling the ofce
work, spare time is limited, but the
Yoders wouldnt have it any other way.
Part of the benet of this business is the ability to
work closely with family, said Sara. But it does make
it difcult to take a vacation.
As for the future, Saras answer reects the way the
Yoders live their lives.
We dont know what God has for us in the future, but
we know the future is in his hands.
Yoders Supplies is located at 14213 180th Ave. in
LeRoy and be reached by phone at (231)768-4387.
A generally great little store
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 45
Call today for tank prices!
Home Industry Farm Auto
Cash Discounts Budget Program
RV Cylinders Filled
Ziehm L.P. Gas
We have been serving Mid Michigan for the past 50 years!
6708 M-115, Cadillac 231-468-2877
Across from Positive Chimney Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm
10031 US-10 Evart 231-734-2153
NOW IN
CADILLAC!
SAVE NOW ON LP FILLS!
Donald Ziehm began
delivering 100-pound propane
tanks in 1962. When
customers started asking for
bulk delivery to their homes,
Donald found a niche and
Ziehm LP Gas was born.
With continuous growth
throughout the last 50 years,
Ziehm is now able to serve
a large portion of the area
with plants in Gladwin,
Cadillac, Evart, Scottville,
Bear Lake and Irons.
With an expanding
business, Donald needed
people he could trust to
run the regional plants. For
Donald, there was no one better for the job
than his daughters, who all were active in
the business at one time. Connie manages
the Bear Lake branch and Kathy managed
the Scottville location until her passing in
1995. The branch was later taken over by
her sister, Tami.
As one of the last family-owned
businesses in the propane industry, the
Ziehm family is proud to live and work in
the same communities as the people they
serve. Without corporate inuence and pure bottom-
line thinking they are also able to focus on their
founding principle: to provide excellent customer
service to each customer while keeping prices as low
as possible.
The Ziehms can be found at any of the satellite
locations or online at www.ziehmpropane.com.
Its a Gas
46 FAMILY AFFAIR - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, September 19, 2014
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DAWN FRESH CATERING
Homestyle Catering at an Affordable Price
EBELS
Clothing Department
Featuring Carhartt Woolrich Robeez Shoes
g n i n n i W d r a w A
Y K R E J
The Little Store With More
Service Selection
Satisfaction
In todays fast paced world of supermarkets and big
box stores, the small town grocer has become a rare
entity. But one northern Michigan family has been
providing good food from good people for nearly 100
years.
The story begins with a horse and carriage in
Moddersville. Chris and Susie Ebels sold groceries
to the residents of Falmouth and saw an opportunity
for growth. In 1920 Chris moved his operations to
Falmouth. Five generations later, the Ebels family is
still selling groceries to the residents of Falmouth.
The horse has since passed and the cart repurposed,
but the same principles that brought success to
Chris and Susie are now helping their progeny take
the family business into the next generation.
Our business wouldnt be here without Gods
blessing. Whatever we do is to His glory, said Bob
Ebels, who handles the stores nances as its CFO.
Although we have expanded beyond Falmouth, we
still want to serve people well through the products
and services we offer.
When walking into Ebels store, you get that nostalgic
feeling and are reminded of that small town store that had
everything and everyone there knew each other.
People like the personal relationships we have here,
said Bob. Although were sort of a destination now, people
feel welcomed here. Like theyve always been a customer of
Ebels.
For Mark and Dawn, there was no question whether
they would be in the family business. When Marks father
passed away unexpectedly at age 50, Mark, along with
Dawn, and his siblings were given the responsibility of
the business. While Mark and Dawn concentrated on the
grocery and meat aspect of the business, some of Marks
siblings focused on the hardware and his Mom focused on
the clothing. With young families, the Ebels children were
literally raised in the store and continue to be involved
today.
Its fun to be part of something that covers so many
generations, said Dawn. To see how it has evolved over
time is really something.
And evolved it has. Ebels is no longer just a grocery
store but also a hardware store, a clothing store, a catering
service and now a famous producer of processed and
smoked meat products.
People cant get enough Little Town products, said
Dawn. We sell it in a lot of different locations.
But with so many irons in the re, it can be difcult to
nd time to spend with family that doesnt involve work.
Every one of the family members puts in a lot of hours,
said Dawn. Finding a balance between work and home is
challenging. But God is working that out, too. We trust God
to lead us through and draw us closer to him.
In the event that you havent seen their local television
commercial, Ebels is located in beautiful downtown
Falmouth and online at www.ebelsgeneralstore.com.
Five Generations
Friday, September 19, 2014 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - FAMILY AFFAIR 47
We cater to you
The Little Store
With More!
231-826-3333 Falmouth www.EbelsGeneralStore.com
Woolrich Swan Creek Candles Home Dcor Baci Beads & Much More!
Jerky Sausage Bologna Bacon Beef Sticks Hams & More
24 Ft. Long!
Largest Meat Department in the area!

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