Behind the Mitten

This week's show comes direct from the Pure Michigan Governor's Conference on Tourism, which we were lucky to attend this past week. We loved reconnecting with friends in the industry, while learning all about what is new across Michigan.We kick off with the the Pure Michigan queeen herself, Kelly Wolgamott. She's the Vice President of our tourism arm here in Michigan, which is run by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Kelly was named VP just last year, and has been making her mark every since. She shares some of the trends she sees unfolding this summer season across Michigan.Next, we have the very no-nonsense Jess Loding on to talk about the super cool non-profit organization Michigan Cares for Tourism.  Each year this group tackles a renovation or restoration project somewhere in Michigan, and have had over 5500 volunteers from the tourism industry join them on their projects over the years. This September, they'll be doing work at Tawas State Park, and Behind the Mitten will be in attendance. We can't wait. Julie Pingston from Choose Lansing then joins us to talk about accesible travel, and some of the projects they've worked on in the greater Lansing area. One thing we learn: until you have experienced compromised travel, you kind of have no idea how important inclusivity in travel is. Finally, we ge to meet one of the keynote speakers at the conference, Matt Rodbod from Taste Magazine. It's always interesting to get an "outsiders" perspecitve of Michigan, and that is just what Matt provides. We loved learning what a national perspective of Michigan looks like, and it's not exactly what we thought. 

EPISODE 695: Batter up! What's new at Comerica ParkThis weekend on "Behind the Mitten," it's ALL about baseball — and we had a blast getting a sneak peek of what's new at Comerica Park with the Detroit Tigers! Amy Sherman sat down with Chef Mark and Chef Maggie to talk about the incredible new food coming to the ballpark this season (spoiler: it's delicious).We'll also fill you in on the special themed weekends and giveaways the Tigers have planned — some really fun stuff you won't want to miss if you're heading to a game this year! Plus, we met some of the awesome local Detroit restaurants bringing their flavors to the stadium.On top of that, John's son Zak joins us on the show to talk about what baseball means to their family. They share some Tigers predictions, and chat about their own little podcast project, Big League Dreaming. Love that they can connect over this game they all grew up with.Catch us every weekend on Behind the Mitten, Michigan's premiere travel radio show and podcast. We air on 21 stations across 14 markets in Michigan, and you can listen in at any of these times:Saturdays:8 a.m. — WBRN (Big Rapids), WKMI (Kalamazoo), WILS (Lansing)9 a.m. — WGHN (Grand Haven)10 a.m. — WSJM (Benton Harbor)Noon — WPHM (Port Huron)4 p.m. — WIOS (Tawas / East Tawas)Sundays:7 a.m. — WCFX (Mt. Pleasant), WGFN (Traverse City), WMRX (Midland), WUPS (Houghton Lake), WWMK (Cheboygan)8 a.m. — WPHM (Port Huron)1 p.m. — WSGW-AM & FM (Saginaw)6 p.m. — WBCK-FM (Battle Creek), WOOD-AM & FM (Grand Rapids)And of course — you can catch us anytime on your favorite podcast app!More info (and adventures) at amyandgonzo.com.#GoTigers#BehindTheMitten #DetroitTigers #BaseballSeason #GoTigers

BONUS PODCASTCo-host of "Behind the Mitten" Amy Sherman shares where she and Gonzo will be this weekend, and all of the fun stuff coming up to do around Da Mitt including BASEBALL!!!!Amy also runs down what's new at Comercia Park, and Gonzo shares info about his family baseball podcast. This segment aired on April 10 on WILS-AM in Lansing on "The WILS Morning Wake Up" show with host Mike Austin.Listen to Amy and Gonzo at 7:40 a.m. Thursdays on WILS-1320 AM.Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premiere travel radio show and podcast, celebrating 10 years of covering the great state of Michigan. Hosted by former chef/social media influencer Amy Sherman and longtime journalist John Gonzalez, the show airs on 21 radio stations and is listened to by more 200,000 listeners each weekend. The show has nearly 700 podcast episodes and is available on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Google podcasts, Spreaker and wherever you get your podcasts.Follow their adventures at amyandgonzo.com.

EPISODE 694: Behind the Mitten Road Trip -- Bay City to FrankenmuthIn this episode of "Behind the Mitten," hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate 10 years of exploring Michigan's Great Lakes State. They embark on a road trip from Bay City to Frankenmuth, visiting local attractions like Tummyache candy store and John's Bar. The conversation highlights the importance of community, local businesses, and upcoming festivals in Frankenmuth, including the opening of a new water park. The hosts share their love for Michigan's culture, food, and the joy of road trips.Segment 1: The trip begins at Tummy Ache Candy Store in Bay City, and Amy and Gonzo meet Starr Henning, who co-owns the store with her husband, Michael, and they also operate an ice cream truck called "Starshine." It's a fun first stop!Segment 2: Amy and Gonzo introduce you to the charmingly awesome John's Bar & Party Store located in Munger right on Hwy 15. When we say right on the highway, it's a house that is just steps from the corner of Tuscola and Munger Roads, on your way south to Frankenmuth. Owner Kellie Brown, who co-owns the bar with her mom Mary Ann, and who's parents previously owned it, welcome everyone in this unssuming house/restaurant/bar. Local beef meets that famous griddle for the perfect flavorful sear, pick your patties and toppings and Kellie will get to work like the pro that she is. Everyone here is friendly and welcoming.Segment 3: After their stop at John's Bar, they travel about 15 miles south to Frankenmuth to visit Amy Zehnder Grossi at Michigan on Main, which is a sister restaurant to Bavarian Inn. It's a familiar stop because Amy and Gonzo were good friends of martriarch Dorothy Zehnder, a true Michigan treasure who passed away in 2023 at age 101. As president of Bavarian Inn Restaurant, Amy Zehnder Grossi shares what's new, including the just-opened Bavarian Blast, one of Michigan's biggest water parks. Segment 4: The night ends with a wine and charcuterie experience at Prost! in Frankenmuth. It feels like a big-city restaurant in the Bavarian-themed village. It has a cozy fireplace and lively atmosphere.That completes our Bay City to Frankenmuth road trip!Chapters00:00 -- Celebrating Michigan's Great Lakes State01:11 -- Road Trip Adventures: Bay City to Frankenmuth02:55 -- Exploring Tummyache: A Candy Wonderland12:54 -- John's Bar: A Local Favorite23:08 -- Frankenmuth: A Home Away From Home25:45 -- Bavarian Inn: A Family Tradition28:56 -- Exciting New Developments: Water Park Coming Soon29:48 -- Festivals in Frankenmuth: Celebrating Community33:27 -- Prost: A Cozy Wine Bar ExperienceLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

On this special podcast of "Behind the Mitten," co-host John Gonzalez checks in with good friend Paul Beachnau of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau about a two-day ice storm in Northern Michigan that has completely devasted the area. Thousands of people across the region remain without power in freezing weather, with some roads still blocked due to downed trees and powerlines. On Monday (March 31, 2025), Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Otsego, Oscoda, Montmorency, Presque Isle, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Mackinac and Alpena counties in order to help with response and recovery efforts. Paul took time to talk to us after a day of helping neighbors clear debris.PHOTO: Eileen TusseyReleased by the Gaylord Tourism Bureau on April 1, 2025As you may know, Gaylord and much of northern Michigan was hit by an ice storm that started on March 29th. Most of our community has been without power since that time. If you plan to travel to the area in the next few weeks, please call ahead first to ensure you will have power and access to your lodging.There are many trees and powerlines down, but the amazing linemen and first responders are working tirelessly to restore everything. We appreciate their efforts more than words can say!Please bear with us as we work on clearing our roads and trails; the cleanup may take some time. We're optimistic that our community will come together, just like before, to reclaim Gaylord as the outdoor wonderland we all love.Thanks for your patience and support! Stay tuned for updates on our progress—we can't wait to welcome you back!Stay up to date at gaylordmichigan.net.

EPISODE 693: Behind the Mitten Road Trip -- Clare to LewistonIn this episode of "Behind the Mitten," hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate a decade of exploring Michigan's hidden gems. They embark on a road trip adventure, visiting various local businesses, including Buccilli's Pizza in Clare, R & J's Best Choice Marketplace in Houghton Lake, and Jack's Place in Roscommon, where they highlight the importance of community and local flavors. The episode also features the Lewiston Hotel & Bar, showcasing its award-winning fish fry and new menu items, emphasizing the unique experiences Michigan has to offer.Segment 1: Co-owner Shari Buccilli of Buccilli's Pizza in Clare tells the story how her husband's family moved from Detroit and started the award-winning pizzeria in 1973 with only $1,500. Segment 2: Our next stop is at R&J's Best Choice Marketplace of Houghton Lake where we meet Joycelyn Alexander, who tells us more about this "Pure Michigan" destination that features products from all over the state, including a variety of their top-selling Feta cheese. Amy calls herself "a Feta girl" and wants to enter the annual contest in December to win a year's worth of Feta. Last year they sold 14,730 pounds of the cheese.Segment 3: A few years ago we traveled all over the state looking for great fish frys. We found one at Jack's Place in Roscommon, known for fresh Alaskan cod and a cool A-frame bar. The fish is never frozen and flown in every week. We stopped in again, only to discover that Amy happen to know new co-owner Jason Christensen, who is originally from Amy's hometown in downriver Detroit. We learned more about how Jason and his partner Ashley Reynolds came to own the bar. And of course, we had to try the fish again. It was fabulous. Segment 4: Another one of our favorite fish frys was at the Lewiston Hotel & Bar, and it, too has new ownership. It was our final stop for the show. We sat at the bar and talked to Troy Willett, who tells us how he and his wife, Crissy, bought the bar a few years ago and updated it with a new menu, including gyros, poutine, more Mexican food items and the "Lewie Burger," a half-pound cheese burger that has become a top-seller. But the perch fish fry still brings them in because it's still the same, Troy said. They also offer 12 modest, very clean hotel rooms, making it a great place to spend the night. Prices are very afforable.That completes our Clare to Lewiston road trip!Chapters00:00 - Celebrating a Decade of Michigan Adventures01:14 - Road Trip Excitement: The Journey Begins02:38 - Exploring Clare: St. Patrick's Day Festivities04:01 - Buccilli's Pizza (Clare): A Local Favorite10:30 - Michigan Maple Festival: Sweet Traditions12:51 - R & J's Best Choice Market (Houghton Lake): Michigan Goods Galore20:57 - Jack's Place (Roscommon): Fresh Fish and Community Vibes35:41 - The Lewiston Hotel (Lewiston): A New Chapter in HospitalityLearn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Co-Host of "Behind the Mitten" Amy Sherman shares where she and Gonzo will be this weekend including road trippin', the CMU "Celebrate Life" Pow-Wow, candy shops, John's Bar, Prost! in Frankenmuth, wiener dog races, and more on 1320 WILS.

In this episode of "Behind the Mitten," hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate a decade of exploring Michigan, focusing on Mount Pleasant and Central Michigan University. They discuss the community's growth, the importance of Indigenous culture, and the upcoming 36th annual Celebrating Life Pow wow. The conversation highlights local attractions, culinary experiences, and the vibrant campus life at CMU, emphasizing the welcoming nature of the community and the diverse opportunities available for visitors and students alike.Guests include:Segment 1 - Chris Rowley, Executive Director of the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Cassandra Chippeway, Content and Communications Coordinator for the Mt. Pleasant CVB, who talk about the city's relationship to Central Michigan University and Saginaw Chippewa Tribe.Segment 2 - Kasey Perez, Director for the Office of Indigenous Affairs at Central Michigan University, who joins the podcast to discuss details about the 36th annual Celebrating Life Pow wow March 29 and 30. Perez is a tribal member of the Hannahville Potawatomi Community and former student at CMU.Segment 3 - Dr. Paula Lancaster, Provost and Executive VP at CMU, who fills us in on academics, enrollment and why this is a great time be a Chippewa. Prior to serving as the university's lead academic officer, she was Dean of the CMU College of Education and Human Services and a professor of teacher education, and she has more than 20 years of higher education experience. Segment 4 - Chris and Cassandra of the Mt. Pleasant CVB, who rejoin the show to talk about the local food scene, as well as the things to do like hiking, tubing and golfing.Chapters00:00 - Celebrating a Decade of Michigan Adventures01:14 - Returning to Mount Pleasant: A Homecoming02:27 - Exploring Mount Pleasant's Community and Culture04:51 - Indigenous Heritage and Culinary Delights09:10 - The Upcoming Celebrating Life Powwow21:06 - Central Michigan University: A Hub of Learning25:05 - Transformative Experiences at CMU33:10 - Mount Pleasant: A Destination for All SeasonsLearn more about Central Michigan University at cmich.edu.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

On the WILS Morning Wake-up Show today (March 20, 2025), John Gonzalez of Behind the Mitten shares the birth of BTM, tribal food and culture, CMU events, and what is Bell's doing with Oberon Day. And he also entertain's WILS host Mike Austin's idea for a new feature... Mike's Bites.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Learn more about Mike Austin's show The Morning Wake-up at 1320wils.com.

Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten appeared on the CFX Breakfast Flakes, March 20, 2025, to preview this weekend's show, which is all about Mt. Pleasant. She also talks about the upcoming Celebrating Life Pow wow at Central Michigan University, which is March 29-30..Learn more about the event at cmich.edu.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten - Episode 691On this weekend's show, John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman spend time in one of their Michigan cities - Bay City!Segment 1: We kicks things off with newly elected mayor of Bay City, Christopher Girard. (Man, does this guy have some energy! We love him.)Segment 2: We also stop at some of our favorite restaurants, including Krzysiak House Restaurant, to talk to owner and long-time friend, Donny. This is a must stop for incredbile Polish meatballs and honey fried chicken. We approve as some of the best fried chicken in Michigan.Segment 3: Amy and Gonzo also get to tour the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame Museum with founder/curator Gary Johnson, who shares his passion for Michigan rock history and the significance that Bay City plays in it. Not only was Madonna born in Bay City, but so was early punk with ? and the Mysterians known for the classic "96 Tears." Framed albums, memorabilia, posters, tons of great photos and a cool theater with a video series on the history of Michigan Rock and Roll are all inside. Fun fact: Johnson said the auto industry had a huge impact on the Michigan rock scene, which makes Michigan very unique. The museum opened March 12, 2022. It is located at the Bay County Historical Museum. Segment 4: It gets a little emotional with the Larner family because both Amy and Gonzo were so close to the matriarch, Jackie Larner. We sit down and talk to the family, whose goal it is to honor their mom's legacy since passing away in September of 2021. The famous Mussell Beach Drive In near the State Park and continues to make some of the best onion rings, burgers and coney dogs in the state,. All fresh and homemade, just the way mom taught them.Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premiere radio show and podcast celebrating is 10th anniversary in 2025. Learn more at amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten - Episode 690On this weekend's show, Gonzo and Amy Sherman check in with some of their favorite tourism professionals around the state for what Amy calls, "missives from Sault Ste. Marie, Manistee and Gaylord."Segment 1: Before we talk to those tourism professionals, Amy asks John Gonzalez (Gonzo) questions about his recent trip to Italy, where he rode on a gondola, ate pizza (of course!) and visited many holy sites, including St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.Segment 2: Our good friend Christy Walcott joins the show to talk about the fun things to do in Gaylord during the "shoulder season," that's when the tourism industry transitions from winter to spring. She recommends hunting for morel mushrooms. The Pigeon River Country State Forest is a perfect spot to look for morels (sandy soil near tall trees such as elm, ash, poplar or fruit trees). The season typically runs from late April to mid-June. Learn more at gaylordmichigan.net.Segment 3: In Sault Ste. Marie, our friend Linda Hoath is a self-proclaimed  "boat nerd" and super excited for a new freighter season when the first ships go through the Soo Locks. Opening Day is March 25. The observation deck will open at 12:01 a.m. Check out this video! Learn more about the Soo at saultstemarie.com.Segment 4: Are you into fishing? The steelead are running in Manistee and Sammie Lukaskiewicz of the Manistee Tourism Bureau fills us in on all the details. She also talks about how women are getting more into the sport. Learn more at visitmanisteecounty.com.Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premiere radio show and podcast celebrating is 10th anniversary in 2025. Learn more at amyandgonzo.com.

It's a hodgepodge this week on Behind the Mitten, with stories coming at you from all over Michigan.We start off the show with Angie Quinn, the executive director of the Michigan Legacy Art Park, which is located at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville. We recently got to do a snowy hike through this very unique art experience, and interviewed Angie trailside afterwards. Spread out over thirty beautiful acres, the Art Park boasts two miles of hiking trails that take you around almost fifty different sculptures. The park has been leasing this space from the resort, but just last year Crystal donated the land to the organization permanently. It is a super cool way to experience art, you can enter the park from dawn to dusk, on foot, snowshoes or skis.Then we have a first on Behind the Mitten, as Amy interivews her husband Jerry Adams. A graduate of the University of Michigan, Jerry shares some of his former favorite haunts, and how they have changed over the years. With a daughter currently attending U of M, we visit regularly, and recently got to enjoy burgers and fries at Krazy Jim's Blimpie Burger, a favorite no matter when you graduated. We'll explain how to order these famous burgers, the key is to just answer the question.Next, we'll catch up with our friend Mike Laing, who co-owns two wineries with his brother Peter, Mawby Vineyards and Big Little Wjnes. From all-bubbly to traditional wines, the vineyards make some great liquids, including the super fun, and totally NA Safe Sex from Mawby, and sparkling non-alcoholic additin to their lineup. Learn more about Safe Sex:https://www.spreaker.com/episode/let-s-have-safe-sex-this-valentine-s-day-with-mawby-vineyards--64358477Finally, Brant Austin from Austin Brothers Beer Company in Alpena joins us again. The last time we had them on was a lifetime ago, pre-pandemic. They are celebrating ten years in business at the tip of the pointer here in Michigan, and brothers Blake and Brant couldn't be prouder. Honestly, so are we. This family moved from Californai after falling in love with Alpena on a Griswold-family road trip, and they've built a thriving local business in their adopted home town.

Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten previews this weekend's Behind the Mitten show, which airs across the state on 21 radio stations across 14 markets. The podcast and radio show is celebrating 10 years.As a guest of the Paul Miller show on WPHM in Port Huron, Amy talks about the passion of boat nerds, which you will hear about as Linda Hoath of the Sault Ste. Marie Visitors & Convention Bureau share her excitement for a new season. The observation deck opens at 12:01 a.m. on March 25 to see the first boats go through the Soo Locks.Behind the Mitten will air at noon on Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday on WPHM-AM (1380).To see what time the show airs on your favorite radio stations across the state, go to amyandgonzo.com.

Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten previews this weekend's Behind the Mitten show, which airs across the state on 21 radio stations across 14 markets. The podcast and radio show is celebrating 10 years. This segment aired on WGHN-FM (92.1) in Grand Haven. BTM airs at 9 a.m. Saturdays on WGHN.To see what time the show airs on your favorite radio stations across the state, go to amyandgonzo.com.

It's all about Michigan beer on this episode of Behind the Mitten, with guests both old and new joining us to talk about what's happening at our breweries and beyond. We start off interviewing one of the most exciting and prolific women in the Michigan craft beer scene, the always interesting Annette May. She holds many titles, but she might be most proud of having achieved certified Advanced Cicerone status, a pretty cool thing and not easy to do. She is also an instructor at Schoolcraft College in their brewing program, and one of the founding members of the women's craft beverage collective Fermenta, which is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit trade group initiated by women, committed to education, networking, diversity, and empowerment within the fermented beverage and food industries. She and her husband Mike Bardallis are working towards opening their own brewery, Full Measure Brewing Company, in Detroit's Eastern Market soon.One of our regular guests, David "Rings" Ringler stops by to catch us up on what is happening at his two German-inspired breweries located in West Michigan. Cedar Springs Brewing Company is where you'll find two sides to both the food and beer menus, both American and German. Indulge in traditional dishes like jagerschnitzel and spatzle, or pub-favorites like house-smoked pulled pork. You'll find the same beers here that you'll see at Kusterer Brauhaus on the West Side of Grand Rapids. Here, you'll find a tradtional German beer hall, with snacks and soccer to enjoy. We love his traditional style beers, including the always lovely Marzen. Now my mouth is watering.Pigeon Hill Brewing Company in Muskegon just celebrated their ten year anniversary in 2024, and co-owner Michael Brower stops by to share some of their recent developments. The brewery now has two locations you can visit, the Brewer's Lounge taproom located on 4th Street right downtown, and the new Socibowl by Pigeon Hill. Socibowl is an entertainment complex right downtown that features duckpin bowling, darts, pinball, oversized yard games, food, and of course, plenty of great craft beer. Michael shares some new and old favorite beers from Pigeon Hill, which you can find in distribution throughout the state.We are always excited when we get to meet new friends, and the owners of Elder Piper Beer and Cider did not disappoint. Trace and Eeva Redmond opened their Petoskey brewery in 2023, and were quickly named a "brewery to watch" by a national publication. The Redmonds bring years of top-level brewing experience with them, both here in Michigan and nationwide. When it came time to open their very own brewery, they decided to head back to Eeva's hometown, where they have been met with open arms. The Redmond's picked their Beach Grass Helles Lager as our selection for BEER OF THE WEEK this show.

Our recent frigid Michigan winter weather can make it a little hard to remember our mantra of embracing the season, but a flurry of upcoming fun festivals might help you change your mind. On this episode of Behind the Mitten, we'll take you all over the state, to some of our wackiest winter festivals you can experience. Do you have a secret desire to be a Viking, even if it's only for a weekend? Our friends at the Michigan Nordic Fire Festival see you, and have concocted one heck of a great time in Charlotte. The 10th annual festival will feature Viking-themed performances, reenactments and demonstrations, competitions and activities like archery and axe throwing, a costume contest and more. We had on Bryan Merkle, the top viking, to give us the scoop. He's particularly excited about the Mead Hall, where you'll be able to sip samples of this honeyed drink. The festival runs February 21 through the 23 and tickets can be purchased online. I'm shining my horn helmut right now.Next, we'll take you to the Upper Peninsula where the little town of Trenary will be hosting their famous Outhouse Races on Saturday February 22. Thousands of people will inundate downtown, while dozens will compete for amazing prizes. We had on Stacey Rucinski, President of the Trenary Outhouse Races to get to the bottom of this hilariously good time. Learn how to make a regulation outhouse, what must be inside said outhouse during the race, how the outhouses make their way down the street, and what it's like to be in Trenary on the big day. Finally, we have one of our favorite regular guests back on the show, Jesse Wiederhold from Visit Keweenaw. Jesse is always a font of knowledge and excitement about what is going on in the Key, and this week was no different. We talked about the Copper Dog 150, which starts in Calumet on February 28. The dog sled racers will then traverse the peninsula during several exciting races. Enjoy a variety of events throughout the weekend, including sled dog rides for the kids, a huge street party, fireworks and more. A new event is happening February 21-23, The Hancock Snow Sculpting Invitational. There will be some seriously awesome snow art here. This premier event will feature four talented teams of snow sculptors, including the renowned Sculptora Borealis, whose team members have won the National Snow Sculpting title four times, and Team USA, winners of the Bronze medal at the 1998 Nagano Olympics and two-time National Snow Sculpting title winners. You can find all the fun that is happening in the Keweenaw this winter here.

Valentine's Day is upon us, and there is no better time to think about having a little Safe Sex for the holiday. We just can't get enough of this delicious non-alcoholic sparkling wine from our freinds at Mawby Vineyards.Based on their number one bubbly, which is named the simple and alluring "Sex", Safe Sex embodies all the delcious flavor and celebratory fizz, with none of the buzz.We met up with Michael Laing, co-owner and winemaker for Mawby to get the scoop on this fun offering, just in time for Valentine's Day. Whether you are exploring the NA lifestyle, or just interested to to learn more, non-alcoholic beverage offerings are definitely a trend across the market. Sparkling wines, which are all that Mawby makes, are particularly suited to the NA treatment, according to Laing. Safe Sex uses Chardonnay grapes, who's juice was fermented to wine and the wine was then de-alcoholized.  Natural flavors, sugar, grape skin extract (for color) and oak tannins were also added, and this wine has the same blush color as the original version The wine was then carbonated and bottled.  The finished wine contains approximately 0.05% ABV. You'll find both versions of Sex out in the marketplace this holiday, and you can visit Mawby's two tasting rooms year-round. Plan your trip, or find their wines here: https://mawby.wine/Safe Sex, regular Sex, we are down with all the Sex-y offerings from Mawby Vineyards this Valentine's Day.

Behind the Mitten - Episode 685Traverse City Restaurant Week 2025 (Feb. 23-March 1)."It's about as farm-to-table as you can get," says Mike Kent of Traverse City Tourism.On this special BONUS episode of "Behind the Mitten," co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman discuss the upcoming Traverse City Restaurant Week, highlighting the unique farm-to-table dining experiences available in the area.Mike Kent of Traverse City Tourism says that each year restaurants focus on local and seasonal menus. He also shares details about the event and the vibrant culinary scene in the region. Check out the website for deals and special packages.More Info:Throughout the 15th annual Traverse City Restaurant Week, local eateries across Traverse City and Grand Traverse County will offer special multiple-course prix fixe menus priced at $25, $35, or $45 per person.How to Participate:Explore a list of 54 participating restaurants with a Digital Passport.Download the passport dining guide below for a chance to win gift card prizes.Make your reservations (where accepted) directly with restaurants – either online or by phone.Dine at (and check in on your passport) as many participating spots as you'd like!More info at downtowntc.com.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Bringing you stories each week from all over Michigan, we are proud to be celebrating our ten year anniversary at Behind the Mitten in 2025!Ten years is a big deal, and we'll be highlighting other businesses and events throughout 2025 that have reached this milestone. Want to find all of our 680 or so episodes?You can find them here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/behind-the-mitten--1278287This week, you'll get to meet Stephen from Batch Brewing Company in Detroit and hear just some of the ways they've figured out how to make it to year ten, and how the Corktown community has supported them. He'll also pick BEER OF THE WEEK, a new/old feature that we've brought back for our ten year anniversary, and how fun, it's a collab. Batch partnered up with our friends from the north in Canada, Badlands Brewing to whip up a tasty little brew. You can currently try Batchland, a New England IPA. brewed in collaboration with Badlands Brewing Co. in Canada. Flavors & aromas of tropical fruit, and it comes in at 6.5%. If you are going to Winter Beer Fest, be sure to seek out this beer, or else you'll need to go to Corktown to try it, which we highly recommend. Our friends at Bobcat Bonnie's have also been part of the Corktown neighborhood for ten years now, and owner Matt shares his perspective. In addition to regular dining, Bobcat's offers up a great brunch every weekend Matt will explain why he put his first Bobcat in the historic Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, and how they have grown, changed, grown, contracted, and still keep on serving up delicious food in a fun, accepting environment.Owning a business is hard. Running a restaurant is incredibly hard. Matt doesn't pull any punches, and has been very honest not just about the current situation facing our local spots, but also about some of his failures, and how Bobcat Bonnie's is always working to be better. If we want our locally owned restaurants to survive, we have got to eat at them, to save them. Please go eat at Bobcat Bonnie's!We'll also have on Liza from Mudgie's Deli & Wine Bar who have been making some of the best sandwiches in the entire state for seventeen years. Hear how Mudgie's is an anchor for Corktown, and about those sandwiches too, which holy smokes, are pretty incredible and most of metro Detroit agrees. They've won all the awards, for years, for decades. For example, they've been named the 2022 Classic Restaurant of the Year by the Detroit Free Press, the 2010-2023 Best Deli in Wayne County by the Metro Times (fun fact, I was once on the cover of the Metro Times!) 2013-2021, 2023, Hour Detroit Best Sandwich Shop. Needless to say, they are legends, and we were lucky to have Liza on to join us. 

"Behind the Mitten" co-host, Amy Sherman talks about the life of Michigan restaurant owners on 1320 WILS and the Mike Austin Morning Show. This weekend's BTM show is all about the restaurant scene in Corktown.Tune in to this weekend's show on all of our stations throughout Michigan to hear about our travels. In Lansing the show airs at 8 a.m. Saturdays on WILS-AM (1320).For a complete list of stations and times, go to amyandgonzo.com.

Behind the Mitten: Episode 682 - The Spirits of WinterThe spirits of winter are here, and they sure are delicious!This week we visit with some of our favorite craft distilleries from around Michigan, to learn more about this segment of the beverage industry.Segment 1: We'll take you to Traverse City to check out the tasting rooms that have popped up all over town, with each one having its own special feel and flavor. Thanks to Mike Kent of Traverse City Tourism for being on the show. Liste of TC area distillers at traversecity.com.Segment 2: Sarah Anderson from Iron Fish Distillery is always a great guest, and her cocktails aren't so bad either. She'll share some of the new offerings they have this winter, including their bourbons which are finally ready.Segment 3: Jon O'Connor, co-owner of Long Road Distillers and president of the Michigan Crafts Distillers Association, stops by to talk about trends in the industry, including the exploding popularity of cocktails-in-a-can.Segment 4: Finally, we reconnect with our friend Rifino Valentine from Valentine Distilling Co.. in Ferndale.We've always loved his Michigan-made vodka, and were pleased to learn that his bourbons and whiskeys are pretty fantastic, too.Drink local this weekend on Behind the Mitten!Follow all of our adventures and get the latest podcast at amyandgonzo.com.#drinklocal#behindthemitten#puremichigan

Sometimes, you just need a different perspective, so that's what we got this week on Behind the Mitten. Learn how to embrace winter through the extraordiary experiences of some of our Michigan media friends, including the Rent family, a fun gal named Michelle, and a very famous radio dj from the Port Huron area. We recorded our first segment when we were onsite at Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville a few weeks ago during a special media trip with My Winter Trails Council. These trips are always a blast, and it's always a fun to reconnect with friends that you might not have worked with in a while. This was the case when we realized that the Rent family was joining us for winter adventures. Andy Rent is a legendary Michigan radio host, who currently hosts Andy in the Morning on 100.5 The River in Grand Rapids. Andy recently got married to the absolutely lovely Susan Bruce, who is a longtime friend of Amy's family. Together, they are continuing their love of Michigan through travel, and you don't want to miss their suggestions. Plus, learn how Suzy and Amy know each other, and why they both love crock pot skiing. Next, we meet a new friend, Ms. Michelle Dunaway. She hosts the Morning Mix on Fox 17 in Grand Rapids each day alongside our longtime friend Todd Chance. She clearly fit right in with us, as she immeaditely was all in on winter adventures, including cross country skiing with us the next morning. Some people just click with you right away, and Michelle did. We hope to have her on again, maybe to share her favorite summer spots. Caleb Gordon is one of our biggest supporters, and is always helping us make Behind the Mitten a better show. A graduate of Michigan State University, he is currently the program director at WPHM in Port Huron, as well as working with the Michigan Broadcasting Association. Caleb shares fun things that are happening in Port Huron during these chilly months, including the Silver Sticks Hockey Tournament, local trails for snowshoeing, and ice skating downtown at the McMorran Place. He's also a huge fan of the UP, and shares a few favorites from his travels. At the end of the show, we rehash a few things that we've enjoyed over the last month, including a cross country skiing lesson that schooled Amy. 

Want a preview of this weekend's "Behind the Mitten" show? John Gonzalez talks to Mike Austin on the WILS Morning Wake-Up Show. Gonzo talks about Iron Fish Distillery, Long Road Distillers and Valentine Distillers.Hosted by Amy and Gonzo, "Behind the Mitten" is Michigan's premier travel radio show, airing across 21 stations in 14 markets. Each week, Amy and Gonzo take listeners on a journey through the Great Lakes State, sharing insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Whether you're a local or planning your next Michigan adventure, Behind the Mitten is your go-to guide for discovering hidden gems and iconic destinations.Tune in to the full show this weekend.Saturdays:8 a.m. – WBRN (1460 AM / 107.7 FM / 96.5 FM) – Big Rapids8 a.m. – Kalamazoo Talk Radio 1360 WKMI – Kalamazoo8 a.m. – WILS (1320 AM) – Lansing9 a.m. – 92.1 FM WGHN – Grand Haven10 a.m. – News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM – Benton HarborNoon – News, Talk and Sports 1380 AM WPHM – Port Huron4 p.m. – WIOS "The Bay's Best!" (1480 AM / 106.9 FM) – Tawas / East TawasSundays:7 a.m. – Black Diamond Broadcasting stations:WCFX - CFX Today's Hits (95.3) – Mt. PleasantWGFN - Classic Rock The Bear (98.1 & 95.3) – Traverse CityWMRX - Sunny 97.7 – MidlandWUPS - The Classic Hits Station (98.5) – Houghton LakeWWMK - 1063 MAC FM – Cheboygan8 a.m. – News, Talk and Sports 1380 AM WPHM – Port Huron1 p.m. – WSGW-AM (790) & FM (100.5) – Saginaw6 p.m. – 95.3 WBCK-FM – Battle Creek6 p.m. – WOOD-AM (1300) & FM (106.9) – Grand RapidsTune in for the best of Michigan, one adventure at a time!Learn more about BTM as they celebrate their 10-year anniversary. Go to amyandgonzo.com.

Susie & Andy Rent: A Pure Michigan Love Story!On this special podcast, John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman spend some time with Andy & Susie Rent, who were married on June 30, 2024 after both experiencing loss, and found each other. "For whatever reasson...we were just brought together. I feel blessed. How did this happen?" Andy says on the Podcast.Amy calls them GR's "most adorable" couple.On the show they talk about how much they love Michigan winters.You can hear Andy on The River from 5:30-10 a.m. weekdays on 100.5. More info here.Follow the Behind the Mitten adventures on amyandgonzo.com.

Everything you need to know about the DNR's Lighthouse Keeper Program!On today's podcast, co-hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman -- celebrating 10 years of "Behind the Mitten," Michigan's premiere travel radio show and podcast - dive deep into the Michigan Lighthouse Keeper Program!Special guest Don La Barre from the Michigan History Center and Department of Natural Resources shares insights on this unique volunteer opportunity, where participants can stay at the historic Tawas Point Lighthouse while helping with tours and maintenance. Learn about the application process, what daily life as a keeper entails, and how this program contributes to preserving Michigan's maritime history.If selected, teams of four spend two weeks living this summer and fall at the Lighthouse with about 30 hours of work during the week. Cost is $250 per persson.Key Takeaways:Volunteers stay at Tawas Lighthouse for two weeks.Teams of four apply together.Duties include cleaning, providing tours, and greeting visitors.The program supports lighthouse preservation efforts.Applications for the 2025 season are due by February 1.Ready to live the life of a lighthouse keeper? Tune in for all the details and visit Michigan.gov to apply!Follow Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

As we get ready for another Behind the Mitten show this weekend, co-host Amy Sherman checks in with our affiliates throughout the state to tell them what we have going on.Today she calls in to Paul Miller of WPHM-AM (1380) in Port Huron. Check out BTM this weekend as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary. For times and stations, go to amyandgonzo.com.

As we get ready for another Behind the Mitten show this weekend, co-host Amy Sherman checks in with our affiliates throughout the state to tell them what we have going on.Today she calls in to Mary Ellen Murphy on Grand Haven's Finest WGHN-FM (92.1). Check out BTM this weekend as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary. For times and stations, go to amyandgonzo.com.

As we get ready for another Behind the Mitten show this weekend, co-host Amy Sherman checks in with our affiliates throughout the state to tell them what we have going on.Today she calls in to the Breakfast Flakes on 95.3 WCFX in Mt. Pleasant. Check out BTM this weekend as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary. For times and stations, go to amyandgonzo.com.

"Behind the Mitten" co-host, Amy Sherman talks cross-country skiing, activities at Crystal Mountain, crock pot French fries, and where to get the best winter cocktails on 1320 WILS and the Mike Austin Morning Show.Tune in to this weekend's show on all of our stations throughout Michigan to hear about our travels. In Lansing the show airs at 8 a.m. Saturdays on WILS-AM (1320).For a complete list of stations and times, go to amyandgonzo.com.

Don't miss this week's episode of Behind the Mitten, Michigan's premiere travel radio show and podcast. Join co-hosts Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez as they broadcast from Stormcloud Brewery in the charming Lake Michigan shoreline town of Frankfort, Michigan.This episode features:Stormcloud Brewery: A Belgian-inspired craft brewery that has won multiple national and international awards. Co-owner and co-founder Rick Schmitt shares the story of how Stormcloud became a favorite destination for craft beer enthusiasts.Winter Fun in Frankfort: Learn about curling on Stormcloud's patio, the popularity of curling leagues, and how the sport is growing across the state with insights from Kate Sterken, Executive Director of the Traverse City Curling Club.The Garden Theatre: Executive Director Katie Jones discusses the history and community role of this 800-seat theater, which hosts annual film festivals, family-friendly movies, and unique collaborations with Stormcloud Brewery.Michigan Craft Beer Spotlight: In celebration of Behind the Mitten's 10th anniversary, Amy and John bring back a fan-favorite segment highlighting the state's vibrant craft beer scene.Catch Behind the Mitten on-air:Saturdays8 a.m.WBRN (Big Rapids) 1460 AM | 107.7 & 96.5 FMWKMI (Kalamazoo) 1360 AMWILS (Lansing) 1320 AM9 a.m.WGHN (Grand Haven) 92.1 FM10 a.m.WSJM (Benton Harbor) 94.9 FMNoonWPHM (Port Huron) 1380 AM4 p.m.WIOS (Tawas/East Tawas) 1480 AM | 106.9 FMSundays7 a.m.Black Diamond Broadcasting stations: WCFX-95.3 (Mt. Pleasant), WGFN-98.1 & 95.3 (Traverse City), WMRX-97.7 (Midland), WUPS-98.5 (Houghton Lake), and WWMK-106.3 (Cheboygan).8 a.m.1380 AM WPHM in Port Huron.1 p.m.WSGW-AM (790) & FM (100.5) in Saginaw.6 p.m.WBCK-FM (95.3) in Battle Creek and WOOD-AM (1300) & FM (106.9) in Grand Rapids.Check out all of our 670+ episodes at Spreaker.com as we celebrate BTM's 10-year anniversary.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Episode 672Jan. 18, 2025Celebrate the magic of Broadway at the Wharton Center with this special bonus episode of Behind the Mitten! Host John Gonzalez sits down with Bobby Hoffman to spotlight "Shucked," the original musical bringing humor, heart, and country charm to East Lansing. Discover what makes this show a must-see event and hear all about its unforgettable music and talented cast.Plus, Bobby offers a sneak peek at upcoming Broadway hits like "MJ the Musical," "Life of Pi," and "Chicago."Performances of "Shucked" at the Wharton Center run Jan. 21-26, 2025. Tune in and grab your tickets now at whartoncenter.com.Learn more about Behind the Mitten and its 10th anniversary season at amyandgonzo.com.

Amy Sherman of "Behind the Mitten" tells the guys from 95.3 CFX about this weekend's show, which is from Stormcloud Brewery in Frankfort, where you can go curling!She also entertains questions from Rob & Kent, as she does every week. Today they want to know where she wants to go on vacation. TUNE IN to hear her answer.And don't forget to tune in this weekend to Behind the Mitten on 95.3 WCFX in Mt. Pleasant and more than 20 other affiliates!Check our website for more info. https://www.amyandgonzo.com/general-5

On this episode of "Behind the Mitten," Gonzo and Amy Sherman explore Old Town Lansing!Not only do they check out the eclectic shops, they talk to local organizers and community members who share what makes this area of Lansing so special. And they do it while recording in a loft overlooking downtown Old Town.In addition, they do "boots on the ground" reporting with an exclusive interview with the founders of the Facebook group page STUPID - Lansing, and they get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of "Big Penny," a song dedicated to the Too Tall Truck Munching Bridge on South Pennsylvania Avenue.Also, listen for an interview with Lansing's favorite trucker country duo, Deer & Elk.TUNE IN!Segment 1: Sam Benson, executive director of the Old Town Commercial  Association, and Jamie Schriner, Queen of Old TownSegment 2: STUPID - Lansing Exclusive! STUPID stands for The Society for Totally Useless Pranks and Immature Dumbassery!Segment 3: Deer & Elk's Jason Lantrip and Jeff Gower. Learn more at phonophorerecords.com.Segment 4: More about Old Town Lansing with Sam and Jamie, including upcoming events, such as the Chocolate Walk (Feb. 22, 2025) and Lumberjack Festival (March 29, 2025).Learn more about Old Town Lansing at iloveoldtown.org.  Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

In this episode of Behind the Mitten, hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman welcome Alma Lou Crossley and Jay Jacobs from the Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau and Chamber of Commerce to discuss the upcoming Tip-Up-Town USA event.Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Tip-Up-Town is Michigan's oldest winter festival filled with family-friendly activities, including ice fishing contests, amusement rides, and live entertainment. The conversation highlights the community spirit, the importance of local events, and the unique experiences that Houghton Lake offers during the winter season.Tip-Up-Town USA is Jan. 17-19 and Jan. 24-25, 2025.Learn more at houghtonlakechamber.net/tip-up-town-usa.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.TakeawaysTip-Up Town is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.The event includes a variety of family-friendly activities.Houghton Lake is known for its welcoming community spirit.There are contests for fishing, belly flops, and even beards.The festival features live entertainment and local bands.Alcohol is available but kept separate from family activities.The event promotes authentic fun and community engagement.Visitors can enjoy amusement rides and carnival games.The festival runs over two weekends in January.Houghton Lake is a great destination for winter activities.Sound Bites"Authentic fun all year round!""You can win like the best belly flop!""You gotta come out and check this out!"Chapters00:00 - Welcome to Behind the Mitten01:06 - Celebrating 75 Years of Tip-Up Town04:36 - Family-Friendly Fun and Community Spirit08:08 - Weather and Community Engagement

We had a blast hanging out in Old Town Lansing right before the holidays, and while we were there we got to explore the area and get the low down about "Big Penny" from our friends from Stupid - Lansing.Look for the full podcast next week.But for now, hear from Lansing's own Deer & Elk about what inspred them to write a song about "Big Penny," the Too Tall Truck Munching Bridge on S. Pennsylvania Avenue.Learn more about Deer & Elk at phonophorerecords.com.Follow the Stupid - Lansing Facebook page.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

BEHIND THE MITTEN - EPISODE 667In this special 10th anniversary episode of Behind the Mitten with Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez, hosts Amy and Gonzo reflect on a decade of exploring Michigan's vibrant culture, food, and travel destinations. Joined by Paul Beachnau from the Gaylord Tourism Bureau, they discuss the growth of Gaylord, the community's spirit, and the exciting winter activities available in the area. The episode highlights memorable experiences, the importance of community support, and the unique charm of Michigan's winter wonderland.This weekend's show is a milestone for us! Let's celebrate.Amy says:"I can't think of a better way to kick off the new year, and a new decade, with our best adventure buddy, great friend, and awesome co-host Paulie B (Paul Beachnau) from the Gaylord Michigan Tourism Bureau. He's the perfect example of what's happened over the years with BTM….work contacts become friends, who become family."She added: "Thank you to everyone who has listened, to our radio affiliates for believing in us not once, but twice, to each and every guest who joined us and shared their stories, and to the power of RADIO, which still exists, and is awesome."Gonzo says:"This a very special show for us. Thanks to Paul Beachnau, Christy Ann, Barry Owens and all of our friends in the Gaylord community who make us feel so welcomed every time we visit the area. It's like a second home. We hope you enjoy the show."He added: "Thanks to everyone who made this little podcast grow into more than just a radio show. As Amy said, we consider you all family. We can't thank you enough."Learn more about Gaylord at gaylordmichigan.net.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

On this final episode of 2024, John Gonzalez talks about picking up wet burritos from the Beltline Bar, how he may - or may not - be superstitious, and debuting the show's new intro to celebrate 10 years in 2025.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

SEASON 6, EPISODE 52Gonzo and Amy wrap up 2024 with a "Best Of" show featuring some of their favorite segments from the year.Segment 1: The show opens with the Lansing Area Ukulele Group, better known as LAUGH (the 'H' is silent). This was recorded on Dec. 14 in a loft in Old Town Lansing after they attended the annual Holiday Sing and Strum at Sir Pizza. John French was our guest. He talks about LAUGH, and he also talks about his role as the curator and chief organizer of the Moist Toilette Museum in East Lansing.Segment 2: One of our most popular episodes of the season was our trip to the Michigan Steam Railroading Institue in Owosso to see the Pere Marquette 1225 up close and personal. Learn more at michigansteamtrain.com.Segment 3: Our webmaster and good friend Jeff Bailey joins the show to talk about his hobby as an amateur maple syrup producer. He talks about what it's like to start the hobby from scratch. Learn more about Michigan maple syrup at michiganmaple.org.Segment 4: Jeff Daniels - actor, comedian, playwright and founder of the Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea - talks about his beloved Detroit Lions right after the team's loss last season, which, had they won, would have put them in the Super Bowl. He also shares why he chose to live in Michigan rather than Hollywood, and why he hopes theater lovers across the state will come to Chelsea to visit him. Learn more about the Purple Rose Theatre at purplerosetheatre.org.Learn more abiout Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

SEASON 6, EPISODE 51This weekend we wish you Merry Christmas from Saginaw!We are so grateful to our friends at WSGW for having us, and for legendary radio host Mr. Art Lewis for joining us. When we say legendary, we really mean it, Art has been sharing his love of Saginaw on the airwaves for over SIXTY YEARS. He lets us in on what makes this community so special, and reveals a little part he played in a lovely little holiday song about the mitten.The arts are alive and well in Saginaw, and if you've been downtown you've seen the fabulous giant glorious Shine Bright Saginaw Mural Project. We visit with Thor Rasmussen from the @saginawartmuseum and The Temple Theatre to hear about other cool things happening around town, including their last show of the year on December 28 when comedian Desi Banks comes to town.We get asked all the time if there are still regional food specialities to be found around Michigan, and we can confidently say YES. What will you find in the Saginaw region? Our friend Maria Coss, who's family owns the popular Maria's Mexican Restaurant in town, tells us the story of the puffy taco, an absolutely delicious and decidedly local, way to enjoy this popular dish.We hope you'll tune in! Find our affiliates at https://www.amyandgonzo.com/You can hear "Christmas in Michigan" by Brian D'Arcy James here:https://youtu.be/nmR7qqoBK2k?si=AKZ02NFLe881ypz_

SEASON 6, EPISODE 50On this show, Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez pick some of their favorite small towns in Michigan, especially during the holidays.Lewiston - A Talley Burger at the Talley Log Cabin Bar or a fish fry at the Lewiston Hotel is reason enough to visit, but in a winter season, the local snowmobile culture returns for frolicing good times.Holly - 50 Miles northwest of downtown Detroit, it's the other up north for those in SE Michigan. Along with great shopping and the Holly Dickens Festival, the annual Holly Dazzle light show and Renaissance experience is back through Dec. 31.Christmas - In the UP of Michigan, this small town has a way with getting you in the spirit with its natural wonder and beauty. Don't expect big light shows and productions, it's a simple way up here. And yes, you can get postcards stamped with Christmas on it. You just have to go to nearby Munising.Croswell-Lexington - From the Horse Parade to beautiful shops, it's always a lot of fun in the Croswell and Lexington area. Behind the Mitten is Michigan's premiere radio show and podcast, celebrating 10 years in 2025. Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLLY DAZZLE FACEBOOK

SEASON 6, EPISODE 49GAYLORD, MI - This weekend we take you slope side at Michigan's Most Spectacular Resort, Treetops!Centrally located just minutes off of I-75 in Gaylord, Treetops has just received record breaking amounts of snow this week, and first chair ran on Thursday (Dec. 5, 2024). It's a winter wonderland here!We'll learn about what's new at the resort this year from general manager Barry Owens. Treetops is celebrating their 70th year of skiing, and Owens shares a little about the unique ski culture at Treetops (think low-key) and about how the resort is focusing on those beginning skiers, with their Cool School ski packages, as well as more experienced snow bunnies with the opening of two new runs.Snow making is a very big deal at Treetops, where it is considered both an art and a science. Even when they get dumped on, Brad Jacobsen, Director of Flake Making at Treetops and his team are constantly making and moving snow to create the perfect conditions for you to enjoy. It's super interesting how it all happens, plus Brad tells us about his big rig, the giant snow cat that he gets drive around when he's grooming.If we are visiting Treetops, you know we aren't going to miss a chance to see what's happening in one of our favorite towns, so we bring our buddy Christy Walcott on from the Gaylord Michigan Tourism Bureau by. The downtown elk herd awaits you, as does unique shopping in this Alpine-inspired village. Christy likes to eat just as much as we do, so she has some great restaurant and coffee shop recommendations.It's time to go all outdoors. It's time to embrace winter. It's time for Treetops!Learn more at treetops.com or call for a reservation at 866-348-5249.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

Amy Sherman of "Behind the Mitten" tells the guys from 95.3 CFX they can learn about regional foods like the "puffy taco" on this weekend's BTM show (Dec. 21-22, 2024), which is all about Saginaw.She also entertains questions from Rob & Kent, as she does every week. Today they want to know if she had a job from Santa at the North Pole, what would it be?TUNE IN to hear her answer.And don't forget to tune in to Behind the Mitten across the state on 95.3 WCFX in Mt. Pleasant, as well as WSGW in Saginaw, and more than 20 other affiliates!Check our website for more info - amyandgonzo.com.

Each year, we host our friends from Original Murdick's Fudge for the holiday season sharing their love for all things sweet on Mackinac Island, and beyond, with our listeners. As the original fudge shop on the island, Murdick's has been serving up sweetness for well over a hundred years, and yet continue to remain "fresh in" as Murdick's always says. We kick off with Original Murdick's owner and operator, Bobby Benser. We always love to hear what it's like on Mackinac Island during the cold winter months, and he always has fun stories to share. Yes, it's cold, but it's also magical. It's a true community here, but it especially shines in the winter and holiday season. Community involvement is very important to Murdick's and to the whole Benser family, with the Mackinac Community Foundation,Toys for Tots, and the Animal Shelter serving as some of their favorite charity partners. Mike Grisdale,the Marketing Director for Mackinac Straits Health System, as well as Director of the Foundation, stops by to share about the good work they are doing in the community thanks to partner's like Original Murdick's Fudge. Making fudge during the holiday season, which has been a more recent endeavor for Murdick's, has allowed them to increase their giving to the Straights Health System. According to Grisdale, Murdick's "is always there when we need them."We were so happy that our good friend Andrew and Nicole Doud could stop by, they are residents on the isalnd and own several very popular businesses, including Doud's Grocery, Doud's Pub and Little Luxuries of Mackinac. With three little boys, this is a very busy season for them, and they are so ready for it. Check out the great gifts that you can have shipped from these very cool places, to send just a little bit of Mackinac Island to your loved ones. We close out the show with a little bit more fudge talk, because it's all just too delicious. Original Murdick's has some incredible gift packs, of fudge, taffy or caramel corn, and some that include all the sweets and even gift ornaments. You can send a taste of Mackinac Island literally anywhere, and it is always the most welcome gift. You can place your order for Original Murdick's Fudge here.

On this episode of Behind the Mitten, we says thanks to those who work hard to give back and to make Michigan just a little bit better for us all. We meet with four different non-profit organizations from around the state to hear about good things happening in the mitten.We start off with an organization that does some incredible work in the Traverse City region, The Father Fred Foundation. Candice Hamel, the executive director of the program joins us to tell us about the work they've been doing this past year. "The Father Fred Foundation offers help, hope, and compassion to anyone in our community with essential needs," and has been serving since 1989. The numbers speak for themselves: over 1500 pairs of new school shoes distributed, 15,000 bags of clothing and household goods handed out, close to half a million dollars in financial assistance provided, and almost one million dollars in food aid given. This was just in one year! Founded by Father Edwin “Fred” Frederick, a Catholic. priest who served the residents of the Traverse City State Hospital as its Catholic chaplain for thirty years. When the hospital closed in 1989, Fr. Fred's concern for the residents and their future inspired him to create the foundation, which now helps the entire Traverse City Community. Then we head to marvelous Marquette, and learn about the work that the United Way is doing in this part of Michigan. Andrew Rickauer, a Northern Michigan University grad, has been the executive director since 2019. United Way of Marquette County works together with the community on a variety of projects. They manage a county-wide volunteer program with over 2200 participants who have provided over 10,000 hours of work back, they've given away 10,000 pairs of socks, and have helped fund over 25 different community programs. Rickauer shares a few of their current campaigns, as well as why he loves this northern Michigan community. The Revive and Thrive Project is a unique organization that has a two-fold mission: to provide nourishing meals to those who are in a health crisis, and to train and empower our next generation of chefs. As soon as I heard this, I knew I had to volunteer. R&T works out of Grace Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids (fun fact, this was President Ford's home parish!) and provides hundreds of incredible, healthy, delicious  and nutritious meals to communith members who are undergoing a health crisis or medical issues. Executive Chef Mandy Thompson runs the show here, and shares why food is so important to healing, and why working with our Michigan teenagers in the kitchen is so vital to their development.Our final guest has joined us before on the show, and we are always happy to share updates on the important work he is doing around the state, and to talk about his award-winning pizza. Fredi Bello, aka Fredi the Pizzaman, is a man on a mission, who is creating postive change one sensory room at a time. He's been making pizzas since he was a child, and runs a small, very old-school shop in Melvindale right outside of the D. No online ordering, no phone calls, you come in and pull a ticket, place your order and watch the magic unfold. Magical these pizzas are, with bubbly dough that Fredi makes fresh every day, and that earned the unprecedented 8.7 on BarStool Sports. The Fredi the Pizzaman Foundation operates seperately from the pizzeria, and relies on donations to help them place one hundred sensory rooms and countirng around the state, everywhere from schools to large arenas like the Breslin Center at Michigan State Univeristy and Ford Field in Detroit. Fredi started his mission to increase autism awareness and accomadations after his own son was diagnosed. There truly is power in pizza, and you'll find it here. 

Amy Sherman of Behind the Mitten gets all the intel on Short's Brewing “Holiday Battle Plan,” a 12-pack inspired by the classic movie “Home Alone.”The new variety pack from Short's Brewing in Bellaire features four brand-new brews and a guide for hosting your own Home Alone watch party.“I think we're all children of the '80s, so when it came out in the '90s it was the perfect time for all of us to feel the right amount of nostalgia for it,” said Short's sales director Kerry Lynch in a podcast with Amy.“(The movie) is such a great holiday classic; it's incredibly quotable. …We're also hoping it opens up an entirely new audience who aren't as familiar with all the subtle nuances and...the lines you know.”Lynch said that Short's has done several different holiday packs over the years, but this year they “decided to switch things up. Since we're such an experience-driven brewery, we wanted to give folks an experience when they pick up this pack in stores.”In a news release about the Holiday pack she said: “This twelve-pack features four beers to chug faster than Fuller chugs Peps!”The styles vary from Sour to Stout, and Short's has provided the corresponding movie times for each brew. All you've got to do is pick up a pack, chill the beers, and kick back with a holiday classic. The Holiday Battle Plan is available for a limited time in stores (and on draft at select locations) now.THE BEERS:*Junk and Rubbish: Cool cocoa and marshmallow stout – ABV: 7.7% (Movie Time: 23:36)*Silver Tuna: Cranberry and orange sour ale – ABV: 4.1% (Movie time 27:31)*Oh-Kay: India Pale Ale – ABV:5.1% (Movie time 41:48)*Thirsty For More: New Zealand Lager – ABV: 4.4% (Movie time 1:24:13)Find more information here: https://www.shortsbrewing.com/beers/holiday-battle-plan/

This weekend's Behind the Mitten is a "sweet" show!It's all about Original Murdick's Fudge, and how you can ship this special holiday gift to friends all around the country. Maybe you want some fudge or brittle or caramel corn for your holiday gathering. You can order this slice of Pure Michigan from our friends at OMF, who are busy this time of year making fresh fudge from the Straits of Mackinac.Original Murdick's Fudge says: "Our fudge, brittle and other specialty sweets are crafted by hand with Pure Michigan all natural ingredients. Copper kettles, marble slabs, a Mackinac climate and a passion for tradition ensure delight in every bite. We carefully package each order to ensure freshness for the journey from Mackinac Island to you."Get Free Shipping on Orders Over $45! Use Code FREESHIP45 at checkout. ORDER HEREJohn Gonzalez of Behind the Mitten previews this weekend's show on the Paul Miller Morning Show on WPHM-1380 AM in Port Huron. Filling in for Paul was station program director Caleb Gordon.Tune in to the Paul Miller Show from 6 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday.Tune in to Behind the Mitten on 21 affiliates across the state. List of Radio Affiliates CLICK HERE.Tune in to BTM on News, Talk and Sports - 1380-AM WPHM in Port Huron at Noon Saturdays and 8 a.m. Sundays.Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.

 Woohoo! It's coming on like a frozen polar express train, you can feel it getting closer and closer by the nip in the air and frost on the brown, dry grass. It's winter, and once again, your friends at Behind the Mitten are here and we are, once again, ready to help you EMBRACE WINTER.We have truly come to believe in the power of the correct winter equipment, having the right stuff can really make or break your time outside in the cold. Our friend Mark Copeland at Jay's Sporting Goods  in Gaylord always knows the best gear, and stops by to talk what kind of equipment we should be getting. Quick takeaways? Layer, and not with cotton. Buy the best boots you can. And of course, shop at Jay's!Our resident ski bunny makes his first to Behind the Mitten of the season. Nick Nerbonne from Pure Michigan joins us once again to share his love of snow and skiing. We discuss favorite ski hills, what Michigan ski culture is like, and generally just gush about how great a Michigan winter can be. We hope Nick will inspire you too.Here are a few more tips on how to embrace winter from our friends at Pure Michigan.We meet some new friends during the third segment, and we sure hope that they'll come by again because we had a great time, and learned so much. We are fascinated by sauna culture, and love a good steam ourselves, and have been seeing these charming wooden barrel saunas around the state for a little while and have been intrigued. So, like the good journalists we are, we went right to the source. The Sauna Guys are the men behind the barrels, and we have them on to share the story of this family owned and operated business located in Baraga in the U.P. Randy and Jeff Maki joined us from the road as they were delivering a few of their handmade saunas down to the metro Detroit area. If you've always wondered what goes on in a sauna, tune in.Finally, we catch up with the Great Lakes Winter Trails Council and member Mariah Frye who works at Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Higgins Lake. Last year's lack of snow has created pent up demand, Frye believes, and this year should be a fun, busy one on our Michigan trails. Where to go, what to do, and where to learn how to cross country ski way better than Amy are all things we touch upon.This week has made it clear, winter is coming! And instead of fighting it, let's embrace it, the Behind the Mitten way.

It's all about Michigan wine this week on Behind the Mitten, and we are awash in the great grape harvest of 2024. Our first guest is in charge of one of the Midwest's biggest, and arguably most exciting, food festival. The 17th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival kicks off November 21 through the 23rd. It's a full on extravaganza of food and food related events and presenations at DeVos Place throughout the weekend. Dawn Baker from Show Span joins us and shares all the new things that you'll find this year, including The Vineyard where you can sample over 1000 wines. Beer City Station with over twenty different brewies pouring their liquids, and the Barrel Room where you can try liquors and cocktails. There are mulitple food and drink pairing options, and culinary demonstrations throughout. This is really a fun festival, it is really huge, and it really shouldn't be missed. Then we catch up with Fenn Valley Vice President Brian Lesperance, who shares a little bit about the excellent grape harvest that Michigan experienced this fall. All that lovely sunny weather that we had put our wines on the road to greatness this year, and Fenn Valley is ready. Look for new releases happening throughout the year, and the next few years as they age to perfection. Sip 'n Shop is happening on December 14 2024, where you can, wander the aisles of artisan crafts while enjoying a glass or two. Right after the holiday season look forward to the chili-cook-off at the vineyard which will feature four cook-off categories: Four Legs (beef and pork), Two Legs (Fowl), Vegetarian (non-meat), and Exotic (Seafood or wild game, including venison). Registration will open for the cook-off on December 1st, 2024.Then the ladies stop by from Shady Lane Cellars. Maddie McCandless, assistant winemaker and Kasey Wierzba, Executive Winemaker and General Manager also share a harvest report from the vineyard, which is located in Suttons Bay. Kasey has been at the vineyard since 2013, and brings years of experience in California to the vineyard. Maddie graduated from Purdue in 2019, got a degree in enology in 2021 and worked at Ram's Gate Winery before finding her home in Northern Michigan. These women are smart, knowledgeable and super fun.Follow John and Amy:Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/behindthemittenTwitter at @BehindTheMittenInstagram at @BehindTheMitten

This week we head to an iconic Michigan destination, known throughout the Midwest as a place for old-fashioned, one-of-a-kind fun, with an amazing dinner theater experience, and some of the best turkey dinners you'll find anywhere.It's Cornwell's Turkeyville, and we visited for the very first time—and we can assure you, it won't be the last.On the show, you'll get to meet owner/operator Patti Cornwell and her daughter and "retirement plan" Elyse Bibbings. Together, these women are running quite the production on their family farm located at the crossroads of 94 & 69 just outside of Marshall, Michigan. From an all-turkey menu, which includes the classic dinner, new favorites like the turkey grilled cheese (get it on the cheese bread please!) to an old-fashioned soda fountain featuring house-made ice cream, you'll be eating well when you visit. Elyse also offers the very cool Simpler Life classes through the winter where you can learn to bake bread, how to can, uncover the mysteries of sourdough, and learn to decorate cookies.We'll also introduce you to Dexter Bringham, producing artistic director for the dinner theater at Turkeyville, where they host a 47 week season of Broadway quality shows featuring actors from across the country. On November 7 they'll be kicking off their holiday show, the Winter Wonderettes which will run through December 21.Turkeyville is the type of place to go with family and friends to create new traditions or relive fantastic old memories. Go for dinner, but stay for more. And don't miss out on their gift shop, it is a great place to find a unique gift this holiday season. We also learned that the gift shop is Patti and Elyse's favorite thing at Turkeyville, their passion project so to speak, so you know it's full of lots of good things, including the cutest little stuffed turkey I had to get for Gonzo's newest baby turkey.

Holy smokes! It's a moment in Midland, and we are back at one of our best.We are back at one of the all time greats Bone Daddy's Barbeque with our buddy and BBQ legend Bill Wall. He's the master of meat, king of smoke, and just so fun. We know you'll love him. too.A few years ago we were looking for great pasties made UNDER the bridge. We found them at shierspasties in Midland, and we have owners George and Kristin on to give us an update on their family run deli.Our friend Dave Clark, editor of the Midland Daily News shares what makes this community special, as well as beers from a few area breweries. He also shared some news from MiBrew Trail magazine.We hope you'll tune in!Learn more about Behind on the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.Follow us on Facebook at @behindthemittenBehind the Mitten is co-hosted by chef and local food advocate Amy Sherman and digital journalist John Gonzalez. It is Michigan's Premiere Radio Show and Podcast, established in 2015. They have produced more than 650 episodes.#bbq#midlandmi#mibrewtrail#btm