From frontline workers and teachers to restaurants with fabulous takeout and outdoor dining, discover the best of Northern Michigan, region by region, from Cadillac to Traverse City, Mackinac Island to Marquette.
A record-breaking 16,000 people voted in MyNorth’s 2021 Red Hot Best Awards, recognizing winners across seven regions in 47 unique categories. In a year that brought us little reason for celebration, it’s particularly heartening to see the enduring spirit of Northern Michigan people, entrepreneurs, events and places recognized. Read on to see who took home first, second and third place.
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees!
– Region: Above The Bridge –Â
Attorney
- Erin Evashevski, Evashevski Law Office, St. Ignace
- Suzanne Curry Larsen, Kendricks, Bordeau, Keefe, Seavoy & Larsen PC, Marquette
- Kenneth J. Seavoy, Kendricks, Bordeau, Keefe, Seavoy & Larsen PC, Marquette
Auto Dealer
Auto Repair
- George’s Body Shop, St. Ignace
- Superior Auto Works 41, L’Anse
- Marthaler Marquette Auto Repair, Marquette
Bank/Financial Institution
- First National Bank of St. Ignace, Main Office, St. Ignace
- U.P. State Credit Union, St. Ignace
- Central Savings Bank, St. Ignace
Beach
- British Landing, Mackinac Island
- Black Rocks Beach, Marquette
- Tie: Chapel Beach, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore & Twelvemile Beach, Grand Marais
Brewery
- Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub, Paradise
- Great Turtle Brewery & Distillery, Mackinac Island
- Blackrocks Brewery, Marquette
Dentist
- Angela Cena, DDS, St. Ignace Dental Associates, St. Ignace
- David P. Anderson, DDS, St. Ignace
- Tie: Scott W. Taylor DDS, PC, Marquette & Erika Tyler DDS, Marquette Pediatric Dentistry, Marquette
Event
Facebook/Instagram
Family Physician
- Gregory Hessler MD, Mackinac Island Medical Center
- Joel Dank MD, Negaunee Family Medicine
- Katrina Brang MD, Marquette Family Medicine
Financial Service Advisor
- John W. Kling, Edward Jones, St. Ignace
- Joshua MacDonald, Edward Jones, Sault Ste. Marie
- Mark A. Aho, Mark Aho Financial Group, Marquette
Fishing Charter
- Top 40 Charters, Escanaba
- North Shore Sport Fishing Charters, St. Ignace
- Keweenaw Charter Fishing Co., Houghton
Floor Covering
- Northwoods Flooring & Rustic Decor, Cedarville
- Carpet One Floor & Home, Marquette
- McCabe’s Quality Flooring, Marquette
Food Truck
Front Line Worker
- Sam Barnwell, Mackinac Marine Rescue
- Rick Linn, Mackinac Island EMS
- Rebecca Becker, FNP-BC, St. Ignace Medical Clinic
Golf Course
Happy Hour
- Pink Pony, Mackinac Island
- Round Island Kitchen at Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island
- Great Turtle Brewery & Distillery, Mackinac Island
Heating & Cooling Business
- Straits Heating and Cooling, St. Ignace
- Mark & Sons Plumbing & Heating, St. Ignace
- Swick Home Services, Marquette
Hiking Trail or Area
- Mackinac State Historic Parks, Mackinac Island
- Tahquamenon Upper Falls, Paradise
- Tranquil Bluff Trail, Mackinac Island
Home Health Care

Place to Buy Jewelery – Above the Bridge: Little Luxuries, Mackinac Island
Photo by Lana Trayser
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
- Kate Dupre, Watercolor Cafe, Mackinac Island
- Beth Millner Jewelry, Marquette
- Photo Art by Nancy May, Mackinac Island
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
- Black Cherry Breakwater Seltzer, Ore Dock Brewing Co., Marquette
- Rightful Cider, Barrel + Beam, Marquette
- Lemon-Lime Breakwater Seltzer, Ore Dock Brewing Co., Marquette
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Jaylene Iverson OD, U.P. Ophthalmology, Escanaba
- Jon P. Webb OD, Downtown Eye Care, Marquette
- Neil R. Winkler MD, Eye Associates of Marquette
Outdoor Dining
- Pink Pony, Mackinac Island
- Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois, Mackinac Island
- The Inn at Stonecliffe, Mackinac Island
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter, Gwinn
- U.P. Wildlife Rehabilitation, Keweenaw Group
- Northwoods Animal Shelter, Iron River
Place for a Wedding
- The Inn at Stonecliffe, Mackinac Island
- Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
- Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island
Place to Buy a Book
- Island Bookstore, Mackinac Island
- Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore, Munising
- Snowbound Books, Marquette
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
Place to Buy Windows
- Straits Building Center, St. Ignace
- Tie: Budget Windows, Marquette & Window Outfitters, Negaunee
- The Window Store Home Improvement Center, Marquette
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
- Amigo Burrito Mexican Grill at Murray Hotel, Mackinac Island
- Rice Paddy, Marquette
- Sol Azteca, Marquette
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Belonga Plumbing & Heating Inc., St. Ignace
- Beauchamp Plumbing & Heating, Marquette
- Cardinal Plumbing & Heating, Sault Ste. Marie
Radio Personality
- Susan Melton, Big Country 102.9
- Mark Elliott, Lite 96.3
- Tie: Omelette, KLT 97.5/93.5/96.7 & Ron Jolly, WTCM 103.5
Real Estate Agent
- Julie Lipnitz, Horizon Realty U.P., St. Ignace
- Tie: Jo Jo Visnaw, Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors, St. Ignace & Suzanne Sasso Kuusinen, Drummond Island Realty
- Sindy Jensen, RE/MAX 1st Realty, Marquette
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
- Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois, Mackinac Island
- Pink Pony, Mackinac Island
- Yankee Rebel Tavern, Mackinac Island
Salon
- Vintage Glam Salon, Mackinac Island
- Lakeside Spa & Salon at Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island
- Embrace Salon & Spa, Marquette
Tattoo Artist
- Hailey Klar, Sacred Tattoo Studio, Marquette
- Justin Gahn, New Age Tattoo Studio, Marquette
- Dan Pemble, Sacred Tattoo Studio, Marquette
Tax Prep Service
- James L Heikkinen, U.P. Tax & Accounting, Marquette
- Robert Bartkowiak, Bartkowiak Accounting and Tax Service, P.C., Marquette
Teacher
Veterinarian Practice
- Mackinac Straits Veterinary Clinic, St. Ignace
- Animal Medical Center of Marquette
- Copper Country Veterinary Clinic, Houghton
Winery

Radio Personality – Benzie & Leelanau: Christal Frost, WTCM 103.5
Photo by Allison Jarrell

Local TV Person – Traverse City, Charlevoix & Chain of Lakes: Joe Charlevoix, WPBN
Photo by Allison Jarrell
– Region: Benzie & Leelanau –Â
Attorney
- Pete Miller, Pete Miller Law, Leland
- John B. Daugherty, Daugherty Law Office PLC, Beulah
- Lisa J. Vogler, L.G. Vogler Law PLC, Beulah
Auto Dealer
Auto Repair
Bank/Financial Institution
Beach
- Frankfort Public Beach & Playground, Frankfort
- Empire Beach, Empire
- Good Harbor Bay Beach, Maple City
Brewery
- Hop Lot Brewing Co., Suttons Bay
- Stormcloud Brewing Company, Frankfort
- Lake Ann Brewing Company, Lake Ann
Dentist
- Steve Hall, DDS, Suttons Bay Dental Center
- Lisa M. Musgrave, DDS, Beulah
- Lisa Siddall DDS, Holistic & High Tech Dentistry, Lake Leelanau
Event
- Frankfort 4th of July
- Leland Wine & Food Festival
- Suttons Bay Arts Festival
Facebook/Instagram
Family Physician
- Tie: Jessica Paquette DO, Leelanau Family Practice, Suttons Bay & Gerard J. Mahoney DO, Crystal Lake Health Center, Frankfort
- Jacob Flynn MD, Crystal Lake Health Center, Interlochen
- Nancy Smith MD, Frankfort Medical Group
Financial Service Advisor
- Justin Keillor, Edward Jones, Benzonia
- Kevin Dunklow, Edward Jones, Glen Arbor
- Eric Haan, Agape Global Investments Corporation, Frankfort
Fishing Charter
Floor Covering
Food Truck
Front Line Worker
- Danny Albarran, Deli Clerk, Hansen Foods
- Michele Nugent, ICU Nurse, Munson
- Kyle Dunklow, EMT
Golf Course
Happy Hour
Heating & Cooling Business
Hiking Trail or Area
- Empire Bluff Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Pyramid Point Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Sleeping Bear Point, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Home Health Care

Locally Made Cider or Seltzer – Benzie & Leelanau: Smackintosh, Tandem Ciders, Suttons Bay
Photo by Dave Weidner
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
- Ken Scott Photography, Suttons Bay
- Holly Therrien, Wandering Waters Designs, Maple City
- Corey Bechler, Bechler Pottery, Honor
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
- Smackintosh, Tandem Ciders, Suttons Bay
- X.R. Cyser, St. Ambrose Cellars, Beulah
- Power Island, Suttons Bay Ciders
Local TV Person
- Natalie Spala, 7&4 News
- Brittney Buti, 7&4 News
- Mark Watkins, 7&4 News
Optometrist
- Edward Scarbrough OD, Scarbrough Family Eyecare, Beulah
- Andrea S. Becker OD, Insight Optometry, Suttons Bay
- Kevin R. Nelson OD, Bay Eye Associates, Frankfort
Outdoor Dining
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Wings of Wonder, Empire
- Animal Welfare League of Benzie County, Beulah
- The Munchkins’ Mission, Suttons Bay
Place for a Wedding
- Inn at Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay
- The Cherry Barn Wedding at Nugent Orchards, Frankfort
- Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
Place to Buy Windows
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Nye Plumbing & Heating, Benzonia
- Westshore Plumbing & Heating, Beulah
- Tie: Frankfort Plumbing & Heating & Lane Plumbing & Heating, Elberta
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Kari King, Century 21 Northland, Frankfort
- Jonathan Oltersdorf, Oltersdorf Realty, Suttons Bay
- Jon Zickert, Real Estate One, Beulah
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
- Martha’s Leelanau Table, Suttons Bay
- Hop Lot Brewing Co., Suttons Bay
- The Roadhouse Mexican Bar & Grill, Benzonia
Salon
Tattoo Artist
Tax Prep Service
- Amy M. Plumstead, Plumstead PC, Frankfort
- Jennifer Christopher, Christopher & Co. CPA, Beulah
- Linda Pershinske PC, LPPC, Traverse City
Teacher
- Raquel Huddleston, Benzie Central, Benzonia
- Melissa Kittleson, Frankfort Elementary
- Arden Wilson, Leelanau Montessori, Lake Leelanau
Veterinarian Practice
- Suttons Bay Animal Hospital
- Betsie River Veterinary Clinic, Benzonia
- Platte Lake Veterinary Clinic, Honor
Winery

Photo by Lydia Mejia
Hiking Trail or Area – Cadillac, Manistee & Ludington: Ludington State Park
Photo by Lydia Mejia
– Region: Cadillac, Manistee & Ludington –
Attorney
- Carlos Alvarado, Carlos Alvarado Law PC, Ludington
- Blake Riemer, Riemer Law PLLC, Ludington
- George V. Saylor III, Mika Meyers PLC, Manistee
Auto Dealer
Auto Repair
- Manistee Tire Service, Manistee
- Avenue Tire & Service, Ludington
- Dusty’s Auto Body & Detail, Ludington
Bank/Financial Institution
Beach
- Tie: Ludington State Park Beach, Ludington & Stearns Park, Ludington
- Fifth Avenue Beach, Manistee
- Orchard Beach State Park, Manistee
Brewery
- Ludington Bay Brewing Co., Ludington
- North Channel Brewing Co., Manistee
- Jamesport Brewing Company, Ludington
Dentist
- Blythe A. O’Donnell DDS, High Tech Dental, Manistee
- Cheryl Larson DDS, Family Dental Care, Ludington
- Nick Simone, DDS, Simone Family Dental, Scottville
Event
- Arcadia Daze
- Tie: Friday Night Live, Ludington & Manistee Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend
- Suds On The Shore, Ludington
Facebook/Instagram
- Facebook & Instagram: @PureLudington
- Facebook & Instagram: @ManisteePureMichigan
- Facebook & Instagram: @VisitCadillac
Family Physician
- Amanda Overmyer MD, Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital
- Joel E. Anhalt DO, Arcadia Medical
- Brian J. McComb, Manistee Primary Care
Financial Service Advisor
- Brian J. Matson, Edward Jones, Ludington
- Tie: Gabrielle O. Boyer, Edward Jones, Manistee & Jeff Reau, Edward Jones, Manistee
- Ben Crowley, Edward Jones, Manistee
Fishing Charter
- Tie: Dreamweaver Charters, Ludington & Riverside Charters, Manistee
- Hiatus Charters, Ludington
- Fishing Affair Sport Fishing Charters, Ludington
Floor Covering
Food Truck
Front Line Worker
- Eric Soneral, Mason County Sheriff’s Office
- Kevin Burgess, Pere Marquette Fire Department
- Jason Torrey, Manistee County Emergency Management Coordinator
Golf Course
Happy Hour
Heating & Cooling Business
- Hopwoods Heating & Cooling Inc., Bear Lake
- Premier Heating & Cooling Co., Ludington
- Hankwitz Heating & Cooling LLC, Ludington
Hiking Trail or Area
Home Health Care

Teacher – Cadillac, Manistee & Ludington: Bryan Morgan, OJ DeJonge Middle School, Ludington
Photo courtesy of Bryan Morgan
Hotel, Inn or Resort
- The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast, Ludington
- The Ramsdell Inn, Manistee
- Nader’s Motel & Suites, Ludington
Local Artist/Maker
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Jennifer L. Branning OD, West Shore Eye Care, Ludington
- Brian A. Allen OD, Manistee
- Pamela Lynch OD, Coastal Woods Vision, Manistee
Outdoor Dining
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Mason County Mutts
- Manistee County Humane Society/Homeward Bound Animal Shelter
- Lakeshore Animal Friends, Ludington
Place for a Wedding
- Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, Arcadia
- Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, Manistee
- The Lake House, Ludington
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
- Wags to Wiskers Pet Supply, Ludington
- Family Farm & Home, Cadillac & Manistee
- Northwoods Feed & Supply, Cadillac
Place to Buy Windows
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Scholtens Plumbing Inc., Scottville
- Manistee Plumbing
- Ted Douglas & Sons Sewer and Drain Cleaning, Ludington
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Casey Tennant, Lighthouse Realty, Manistee
- Steve Winczewski, Greenridge Realty, Ludington
- Suzanne Riley, CENTURY 21 Boardwalk, Manistee
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
Salon
Tattoo Artist
Tax Prep Service
- Becky Jankwietz, H&R Block, Manistee
- Merskin & Merskin Tax and Accounting, Inc., Ludington
- Richards and McDougall PC, Manistee
Teacher
- Bryan Morgan, OJ DeJonge Middle School, Ludington
- Tracy Bennett, Onekama Consolidated Schools
- Rich Ambrose, Covenant Christian School, Ludington
Veterinarian Practice
Winery

Photo by Dave Weidner
Outdoor Dining – Charlevoix & Chain of Lakes: Dockside Torch Lake, Bellaire
Photo by Dave Weidner
– Region: Charlevoix & The Chain of Lakes –
Attorney
- Christopher T. Turkelson, Turkelson Law Firm PLLC, Charlevoix
- Barron & Engstrom PLC, Charlevoix
- Jim Boardman, Real Estate Lawyers PLC, Elk Rapids
Auto Dealer
Auto Repair
Bank/Financial Institution
- Alden State Bank, Elk Rapids
- 4Front Credit Union, Boyne City
- Charlevoix State Bank, Main Office, Charlevoix
Beach
Brewery
Dentist
- Brian Rathke DDS, Bellaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
- Scott R. Perron DDS, All Smiles Family Dentistry, Elk Rapids
- Bert DesJardins & John Kenzie, Maple Ridge Dentistry, East Jordan
Event
Facebook/Instagram
Family Physician
- Jennifer Shockley MD, Elk Rapids Primary Care
- Anna Young MD, Charlevoix Primary Care
- Steven Pray DO, Elk Rapids Primary Care
Financial Service Advisor
- Rob Joyce, Edward Jones, Bellaire
- Tom Shelder, Edward Jones, Elk Rapids
- Greg McGeorge, 4Front Credit Union, East Jordan
Fishing Charter
Floor Covering
- Harbor Flooring, Elk Rapids
- Whitley’s Floor Covering, Charlevoix
- Affordable Flooring and More, Charlevoix
Food Truck
- Pigs Eatin’ Ribs, Charlevoix
- Old Mission Eats, Elk Rapids
- Barrel Back Restaurant Food Truck, Walloon Lake
Front Line Worker
- Andy LaPointe, Traverse Bay Farms, Elk Rapids
- Wendy Roberts, GM, The Argonne House, Charlevoix
- Stephanie Holbel, Ruthann’s Gourmet Bakery, Bellaire
Golf Course
Happy Hour
- Dockside, Bellaire
- Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen, Elk Rapids
- Tie: Barrel Back Restaurant, Walloon Lake & Hello Vino, Bellaire
Heating & Cooling Business
- K&K Heating and Cooling, Elk Rapids
- Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Geothermal, Mancelona
- Haggard’s Plumbing & Heating, Charlevoix
Hiking Trail or Area
- Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire
- Fisherman’s Island State Park, Charlevoix
- Glacial Hills Pathway & Natural Area, Bellaire
Home Health Care

Facebook – Charlevoix & Chain of Lakes: Downtown Charlevoix
Photo by Michael Murphy
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
- Christine Leader, Michigan Metalsmith, Charlevoix
- Zach Gosnell, Torch Lake Concepts
- Tie: Bentley Hill Bakehouse, Charlevoix & Ruthann Dexter, Ruthann’s Gourmet Bakery, Bellaire
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
- The Conservancy, Bee Well Mead & Cider, Bellaire
- Pink Bikini, Royal Farms Farm Market & Winery, Ellsworth
- Pulsar, Starcut Ciders, Bellaire
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Tie: Dr. Hufford, Hufford Vision & Eye Care, Elk Rapids & Jon Vanwagnen OD, Charlevoix Eye Center, Charlevoix
- Peter Oppermann OD, Eyes on Main, Boyne City
- Steven Voci OD, Charlevoix
Outdoor Dining
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Help From My Friends’ Pet Crisis Center, Bellaire
- Charlevoix Area Humane Society, Boyne City
- Last Dance Rescue Ranch, Charlevoix
Place for a Wedding
- Castle Farms, Charlevoix
- Tie: Applesauce Inn Bed & Breakfast, Bellaire & Lavender Hill Farm, Boyne City
- The Boathouse on Lake Charlevoix, East Jordan
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
- Family Farm & Home, Charlevoix
- Tractor Supply, Boyne City
- Pawfect Purrfections Gourmet Pet Confections, Charlevoix
Place to Buy Windows
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Steve Parafin, Real Estate One, Charlevoix
- Sandra Ehlers, Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors, Elk Rapids
- Tie: Jennifer Burr, Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors, Boyne City & Scott Moore, Exit Northern Shores Realty, Elk Rapids
Residential Cleaning
- Brady’s Carpet Cleaning, Charlevoix
- Northern Lakes Cleaning and Home Services, Kewadin
- White Pine Carpet Cleaning, Charlevoix
Restaurant
Salon
- Hair Works Plus, Bellaire
- En Vogue Salon, Boyne City
- Tie: Hairport Salon & Spa, Elk Rapids & The Last Tangle, Charlevoix
Tattoo Artist
Tax Prep Service
- All Seasons Tax & Accounting Services, Elk Rapids
- Tie: Bob Hoffman, Hoffman McLane CPA Firm, PLC, Charlevoix & Shelly Fay Accounting Services, Bellaire
- Larry Wilson CPA, Elk Rapids
Teacher
- Jennifer Hall, Lakeland Elementary, Elk Rapids
- Annemarie Conway, Charlevoix High School
- Kwin Morris, Cherryland Middle School, Elk Rapids
Veterinarian Practice
Winery

Hiking Trail or Area – Charlevoix & Chain of Lakes:Â Grass River Natural Area, Bellaire
Photo by Dave Weidner

Hiking Trail or Area – Kalkaska, Gaylord & Grayling:Â Hartwick Pines, Grayling
Photo by Dave Weidner
– Region: Kalkaska, Gaylord & Grayling –
Attorney
- Elliot Blumberg, Blumberg & Blumberg, PC Gaylord
Auto Dealer
- Bill Marsh Ford, Kalkaska
- Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet Buick GMC, Grayling
- Jim Wernig Chevrolet, Gaylord
Auto Repair
- Tie: Alpine Auto Repair, Gaylord & Fuhrs Grayling Car Care
- Sure Stop Auto LLC, Gaylord
- Tie: James Long, South Boardman & Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet Buick GMC, Grayling
Bank/Financial Institution
Beach
- Otsego Lake State Park, Gaylord
- Lake Margrethe, Grayling
- Bear Lake, Kalkaska
Brewery
Dentist
- Jennifer Malicowski, AuSable Family Dental, P.C., Grayling
- Jacob Soenen, Birch Street Dental Care, Kalkaska
- William Koenig DDS, Gaylord Family Dentistry
Event
Facebook/Instagram
- Facebook: Alpine Chocolat Haus Gaylord
- Facebook & Instagram: @otsegoresort
- Facebook & Instagram: @treetopsmich
Family Physician
- Michael Samalik MD, McLaren Northern Michigan – Gaylord Family Practice
- Natalie Okerson-Sparks MD, Kalkaska Medical Associates
- Andrew J. Long DO, Kalkaska Medical Associates
Financial Service Advisor
- Bill Forreider, Edward Jones, Gaylord
- Mark Sloan, Ameriprise Financial Services, Grayling
- Justin Cherwinski, GLP & Associates, Kalkaska
Fishing Charter
Floor Covering
- Hickerson Floor & Tile Haus, Gaylord
- Jarrad’s Carpet Direct, Kalkaska
- McLean’s Home Center Inc., Kalkaska
Food Truck
- Tie: The Dig’s Food Truck, Elmira & Billy Bob’s Boneyard, Kalkaska
- K & J Grill Food Truck, Gaylord
- Food at Northbound Outfitters, Grayling
Front Line Worker
- Kendra Churches RN, Otsego Memorial Hospital
- Doug Galer, Otsego County EMS/Rescue Team
- Shelley Holm RN
Golf Course
Happy Hour
Heating & Cooling Business
- Tie: Kalkaska Plumbing & Heating & Quality Plumbing & Mechanical, Gaylord
- Tie: Air North Heating & Plumbing, South Boardman & Raymond Heating and Cooling, Kalkaska
- Andy’s Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC, Johannesburg
Hiking Trail or Area
Home Health Care

Brewery – Kalkaska, Gaylord & Grayling: Paddle Hard Brewing, Gaylord
Photo by Jesse Green
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
- Brianna Nelson, Shoot Me Photography, Kalkaska
- AuSable Artisan Village, Grayling *all of the artists were recognized*
- Cara Barajas, Cara Bear Tattoo, Gaylord
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Peter Oppermann OD, Gaylord Eye Care Center
- William Dean OD, Ausable Eye Care, Grayling
- Kari M. Visser-Robel OD, Gaylord
Outdoor Dining
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Otsego County Animal Shelter, Gaylord
- Silver Muzzle Cottage, Rapid City
- Ausable Valley Animal Shelter, Grayling
Place for a Wedding
- Sonshine Barn Wedding & Event Center, Gaylord
- Sojourn Lakeside Resort, Gaylord
- Treetops Resort, Gaylord
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
- Old Spud Warehouse, Gaylord
- Jay’s Sporting Goods, Gaylord
- Tie: Call of the Wild Museum, Gaylord & The Curator, Grayling & Tip’n the Mitten, Grayling
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
- Tractor Supply Co., Gaylord
- Kalkaska Feed & Supply
- Natural Farm Store/Lodi Trading Company, Kalkaska
Place to Buy Windows
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
- El Rancho Mexican Restaurant, Gaylord
- The Bearded Dogg Lounge, Gaylord
- China West, Grayling
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Nate Spencer, South Boardman
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Craig Hinkle, RE/MAX of Grayling
- Hannah Techel, The Team Real Estate Group, Gaylord
- Paig Switalski, Smith Realty Group, Gaylord
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
- Trout Town Tavern & Eatery, Kalkaska
- Ray’s – BBQ, Brews & Blues, Grayling
- Bennethum’s Northern Inn, Gaylord
Salon
Tattoo Artist
Tax Prep Service
- Crawford Accounting & Tax Preparation, Kalkaska
- Diane’s Accounting & Tax Service, Johannesburg
- Tie: Chet Szymanski, Gaylord & JPK Accounting Co. Grayling
Teacher
- Tawni Deike, Forest Area High School, Fife Lake
- Brad Wagner, Grayling Middle School
- Nick Nowak, Gaylord Intermediate School
Veterinarian Practice

Photo by Rachel Haggerty
Winery – Petoskey, Harbor Springs & The Straits:Â Pond Hill Farm, Harbor Springs
Photo by Rachel Haggerty
– Region: Petoskey, Harbor Springs & The Straits –
Attorney
- The Law Offices of Daniel J. Harris PC, Petoskey & Harbor Springs
- Nelson Deegan Forster & Stikovich PC, Petoskey
- Patrick, Kwiatkowski & Hesselink PLLC, Cheboygan
Auto Dealer
- Dave Kring, Petoskey
- Brown Motors, Petoskey
- Fletch’s GMC Buick Audi, Petoskey
Auto Repair
- Harbor Springs Car Care, Harbor Springs
- Bill’s Standard Auto Repair, Petoskey
- Brown Motors, Petoskey
Bank/Financial Institution
- 4Front Credit Union, US-131, Petoskey
- Citizens National Bank, Drive-Thru & Walk-In, Petoskey
- Huntington Bank, Petoskey
Beach
- Sturgeon Bay Beach, Carp Lake
- Petoskey State Park, Petoskey
- Duncan Bay Nature Preserve, Cheboygan
Brewery
- Petoskey Brewing, Petoskey
- Beards Brewery, Petoskey
- Cheboygan Brewing Company, Cheboygan
Dentist
- Kathryn C. Morley, Indian River Family Dentistry
- David Ellsworth DDS, Harbor Pointe Dental, Petoskey
- Tie: David K. Miller Jr. DDS, Petoskey & Scott Eaton DDS, Petoskey
Event
- Pond Hill Farm Fall Fest Weekends, Harbor Springs
- Blissfest, Petoskey
- Art in the Park, Petoskey
Facebook/Instagram
- Instagram: @downtownpetoskey
- Instagram: @sweetwaterfloral
- Tie: Facebook & Instagram: @bearcuboutfitters & Facebook & Instagram: @petoskeyarea
Family Physician
- Todd E. Decker MD, Bayside Family & Sports Medicine, Petoskey
- Wendy Walker MD, Harbor Springs
- Todd Sheperd MD, Bayside Family & Sports Medicine, Petoskey
Financial Service Advisor
- Tim Knapp, Edward Jones, Harbor Springs
- Chad Owens, Edward Jones, Harbor Springs
- Dan Ledingham, Edward Jones, Petoskey
Fishing Charter
- Second Wind Charters, Harbor Springs
- Plumber’s Helper Charters, Bay Harbor
- Diabolical Sportfishing, Cheboygan
Floor Covering
- Petoskey Flooring
- Contractors Supply, Petoskey
- Kiss Carpet Design Center, Harbor Springs
Food Trucks
- Happy’s Taco Shop, Petoskey
- Mim’s Mobile Grill, Petoskey
- Petoskey Farms Wood Fired Pizza Truck
Front Line Worker
- Emilee Kennedy MSN, Little Traverse Primary Care
- Hillary Taylor, RN, McLaren Northern Michigan
- Carl Powers, Optometrist
Golf Course
- BOYNE Golf
- Hidden River Golf & Casting Club, Brutus
- Chestnut Valley Golf Course, Harbor Springs
Happy Hour
- The Back Lot, Petoskey
- Legs Inn, Cross Village
- Palette Bistro, Petoskey
Heating & Cooling Business
- Ballard’s Plumbing and Heating, Petoskey
- W. W. Fairbairn & Sons, Alanson
- MacGregor Plumbing & Heating, Harbor Springs
Hiking Trail or Area
- Pond Hill Farm, Harbor Springs
- Little Traverse Wheelway, Petoskey to Harbor Springs
- Petoskey State Park

Outdoor Dining – Petoskey, Harbor Springs & The Straits: The Back Lot, Petoskey
Photo by Allison Jarrell
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
- Trisha Witty, Painter, Harbor Springs
- Mallory Shepler, Jewelry/Metalsmith, Harbor Springs
- Tie: Mary Bea McWatters, Petoskey & Mary Lou Peters, Mackinaw City
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Ashley Rossman Eye Care, Petoskey
- Carl F. Powers OD PLLC, Petoskey
- Tie: Tess Sobczak OD, Infinity Eye Care, Petoskey & Riley J. Turcott OD, Petoskey
Outdoor Dining
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
Place for a Wedding
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
Place to Buy Pet Items
Place to Buy Windows
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Ballard’s Plumbing and Heating, Petoskey
- Hotshots Drain Cleaning, Petoskey
- MacGregor Plumbing & Heating, Harbor Springs
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Pat Leavy, Kidd & Leavy Real Estate, Petoskey
- Wally Kidd, Kidd & Leavy Real Estate, Petoskey
- Pete Platte, Gaslight Group Properties, Petoskey
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
Salon
Tattoo Artist
Tax Prep Service
Teacher
- Robin Crane, Concord Academy of Petoskey
- Tim Tippett, Lincoln Elementary, Petoskey
- Liz Dunn, Shay Elementary, Harbor Springs
Veterinarian Practice
- Bay Pines Veterinary Clinic, Harbor Springs
- Maple River Animal Clinic, Alanson
- Jensen’s Animal Hospital, Petoskey
Winery

Winery – Traverse City: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, Old Mission Peninsula
Photo by Dave Weidner
– Region: Traverse City –Â
Attorney
- Lawrence R. LaSusa, LaSusa Law Offices PLC, Traverse City
- Kuhn Rogers PLC, Traverse City
- Bethany C. Warner & Associates, Traverse City
Auto Dealer
- Bill Marsh Buick GMC, Traverse City
- Serra Subaru, Traverse City
- Fox Grand Traverse Ford, Traverse City
Auto Repair
- Car Repairs Inc., Traverse City
- Dave’s Garage, Traverse City
- Sonny’s Body Shop, Traverse City
Bank/Financial Institution
- 4Front Credit Union, Hastings Street, Traverse City
- TBA Credit Union, Traverse City
- Caliber Home Loans, Traverse City
Beach
- Mission Point Park, Old Mission Peninsula
- Haserot Beach, Old Mission Peninsula
- Clinch Park Beach, Traverse City
Brewery
- The Filling Station Microbrewery, Traverse City
- Rare Bird Brewpub, Traverse City
- Right Brain Brewery, Traverse City
Dentist
- Chad L. Beers DDS, Beers & Stilwill Family Dentistry, Traverse City
- Brooke Chapman, Schulz Chapman Dentistry, Traverse City
- Tim Wentzloff DDS, Rose Street Dental, Traverse City
Event
- National Cherry Festival, Traverse City
- National Writers Series, Traverse City
- Traverse City Film Festival
Facebook/Instagram
Family Physician
- Debra Graetz MD, Brookside Family Medicine, Traverse City
- Tie: Robert Kuhn DO, Northern Michigan Medicine and Pediatrics, Traverse City & Tobin J. Fraser DO, West Front Primary Care, Traverse City
- Angela Pohl DO, Traverse Bay Internal Medicine, Traverse City
Financial Service Advisor
- Andrew Maniaci, TBA Credit Union, Traverse City
- Beth Melcher, Moneyfit, Traverse City
- Dennis Prout, Prout Financial Design, Traverse City & Bill Collin, Edward Jones, Interlochen
Fishing Charter
- Central Coast Angling, Traverse City
- Storm Hawk Sport Fishing, Traverse City
- Showtime Xtreme, Traverse City
Floor Covering
- Bay View Flooring, Traverse City
- Floor Covering Brokers Carpet One, Traverse City
- Carpet Galleria, Traverse City
Food Truck
Front Line Worker
- Munson EVS 3rd Shift Covid Team *The entire Munson COVID team received high praise*
- Rachel Stone, RN, ED, Munson Medical Center
- Nathan March DO, West Front Primary Care
Golf Course
- Bay Meadows Family Golf Course, Traverse City
- The Bear at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, Acme
- Interlochen Golf Course, Interlochen
Happy Hour
Heating & Cooling Business
- Team Bob’s, Traverse City
- Precision Plumbing and Heating Systems, Inc., Traverse City
- D&W Mechanical, Traverse City
Hiking Trail or Area
- The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City
- TART, Traverse City
- Brown Bridge Quiet Area, Traverse City
Home Health Care

Hiking Trail or Area – Traverse City: The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City
Photo by Dave Weidner
Hotel, Inn or Resort
Local Artist/Maker
Locally Made Cider or Seltzer
- Cinnamon Girl, Left Foot Charley, Traverse City
- Cherry Apple Cider, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Old Mission Peninsula
- Semi-Sweet Hard Cider, Nomad Cidery, Williamsburg
Local TV Person
Optometrist
- Edward Scarbrough OD, Scarbrough Family Eye Care, Traverse City
- Rebekah Noss Lynch OD, Full Spectrum Eye Care, Traverse City
- Daniel D. Thuente MD, Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, Traverse City
Outdoor Dining
- The Little Fleet, Traverse City
- The Filling Station Microbrewery, Traverse City
- Boone’s Long Lake Inn, Traverse City
Pet/Wildlife Nonprofit
- Cherryland Humane Society, Traverse City
- AC PAW, Traverse City
- H.A.N.D.D.S To The Rescue, Traverse City
Place for a Wedding
- The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, Traverse City
- Chateau Chantal, Old Mission Peninsula
- Cobblestone Farms, Kinglsey
Place to Buy a Book
Place to Buy a Gift
Place to Buy Jewelry
- Miner’s North Jewelers, Traverse City
- Becky Thatcher Designs, Traverse City
- James C. Smith Fine Jewelry, Traverse City
Place to Buy Pet Items
Place to Buy Windows
- Twin Bay Glass, Traverse City
- Old Mission Windows, Traverse City
- Pella Windows & Doors, Traverse City
Place to Get Active/Outdoor Wear & Gear
Place to Get Global Food
Place to Get Takeout
Plumber
- Roto-Rooter, Traverse City
- Precision Plumbing and Heating Systems, Inc., Traverse City
- Team Bob’s, Traverse City
Radio Personality
Real Estate Agent
- Amber Cyman, Real Estate One, Traverse City
- Holly Hack, Exit Realty Paramount, Traverse City
- Jennifer Edson, Five Star Realty, Traverse City
Residential Cleaning
Restaurant
Salon
Tattoo Artist
- Rex Rector, Blue Heart Tattoo, Traverse City
- Jessica Harrigan, Truth Seeker Tattoo, Traverse City
- Aaron York, Ohana Tattoo Parlor, Traverse City
Tax Prep Service
- Dennis, Gartland & Niergarth, Traverse City
- Traverse Tax & Accounting, Traverse City
- Katie Myers CPA, PC, Traverse City
Teacher
- Chandra Fles, Traverse Heights Elementary, Traverse City
- Liz Hague, Old Mission Peninsula School
- Tak Ready, Traverse City West Senior High School
Veterinarian Practice
- Grand Traverse Veterinary Hospital, Traverse City
- Oakwood Veterinary Hospital, Traverse City
- Bay Area Pet Hospital, Traverse City
Winery
Find this article and more in the June 2021 issue of Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine; or subscribe and get Traverse Magazine delivered to your door each month.