On this week's program, host Phil Tower welcomes  Paul Beachnau, Executive Director of the Gaylord Tourism Bureau. If you ask Paul, he’ll tell you Northern Michigan summers are the best… especially in Gaylord, Michigan.  If you haven’t experienced one lately, Paul covered the “Top 7 Reasons To Enjoy Summer in Gaylord, Michigan." #1 Biking. Gaylord is recognized as a top biking destination! The biking scene is diverse, from single tracks at Aspen Park, Shingle Mill Pathway, and Pine Baron Pathway to the crown jewel of all trails – the North Central State Trail.  Newly expanded and now running 73 miles from Waters to Mackinaw City, MI.  #2 Hiking. Hiking is available for all levels of hikers. There are plenty of paved and unpaved trails.  #3. Elk Viewing. Gaylord is home to one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. The Pigeon River Country State Forest is home to a herd of over 1,000 elk, and for a guaranteed sighting, head to the City Elk Park, just a few blocks from the downtown district.  #4. Lakes & Rivers. Otsego County is home to over 90 inland lakes and the headwaters of 5 major rivers. There’s plenty of water to boat, fish, and explore. #5. Downtown. Gaylord’s downtown boasts a newly remodeled streetscape, trendy new eateries, and unique stores with up-north charm.  #6. Events & Festivals. There’s the new Downtown Summer Concert Series, featuring weekly performers plus the Otsego Lake Fly-In, Michaywe Arts & Crafts Fair, Otsego County Fair, races, fireworks, and more. #7. Lodging. Gaylord has plentiful accommodation options, from beautiful resorts and cabins to vacation homes and trusted hotels.
Online: Gaylord Tourism

In part two of our program, Phil speaks with Jill Wallace, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer/Vice President of Operations, at Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids. Jill told us that Goodwill sells donated goods to fuel its mission of job training and placement opportunities to help people create better futures by building their skills and finding jobs.  Jill said that for every dollar spent at Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids stores, $.90 goes directly towards job training and placement services for those in need in our local communities. Goodwill Industries has 18 locations in West Michigan and 155+ local organizations in the United States and Canada.  Goodwill even has a national online shopping site with incredible deals at shopgoodwill.com
Online: Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids