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January 2009

What did you think of this week's show?

Monday, January 05, 2009 7:46 PM
Robert Russell - Pendleton, IN

I really enjoy the insightful way the "Great Getaways" shows inform the viewer about the many outdoor activities to participate in especially winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Also, I enjoyed seeing how hiking is both a great way to experience the Michigan outdoors and get some exercise.

Wednesday, January 07, 2009 2:05 PM
Duane Durflinger - Hillman, MI

Very nice show.  Nice to see the Manistique area in winter.

Friday, January 09, 2009 12:05 PM
Karen Horrigan - Comstock Park, MI

Love the wine show and the tractor ride throught the vineyard.
Thanks

Saturday, January 10, 2009 5:07 PM
Tim Shannon - Ypsilanti, MI

We enjoyed it. Inglis Falls and Sauble Beach brought back pleasant memories of a recent road trip there. We must now return as we were not aware of Bruce Caves near Wiarton.

Monday, January 12, 2009 7:56 PM
Michael Conte - Warren, MI

Michigan truly is a beautiful state in the winter.

Saturday, January 17, 2009 10:34 PM
Paul Smith - Berkley, MI

Entertaining and information, I enjoyed it very much. Thank Everyone for their excellent work!

Saturday, January 17, 2009 6:46 PM
Jim Sturdevan - Port Huron, MI

Great photography & very informative!The Manistique area is a favorite of mine. I like to snowshoe!!!! Maybe in a future show you could tour the Iverson Snowshoe Factory in Shingleton?

Saturday, January 17, 2009 6:07 PM
Richard Sveda - Corunna, MI

I haven't watched the show in a long time but just happened to catch the show today.  It was really interesting and held my attention with the good comentary and video.  Keep up the good work and will be watching more of your shows.  Thanks again.  Dick

Saturday, January 17, 2009 6:04 PM
Joy  Ryan - Eaton Rapids, MI

This week's show gave me information about the area that I was not aware of. Thank you and looking forward to your DVD.

Saturday, January 17, 2009 5:47 PM
Richard Scott - Oxford , MI

This week's show was great and it shows how to enjoy the great outdoors of Michigan in the long snowy winters: where to go, where to stay, what to do - excellent! Although we aren't able to get away like you do, we've watched your show from way back when your cookie duster was a diferent color. Hope your show lasts - really appreciate it.
Sincerely - R S

Saturday, January 17, 2009 4:53 PM
Don Gould II - Shepherd, MI

I enjoyed every min. of the show today, I was wanting more!

Saturday, January 17, 2009 12:57 PM
Jan Warzocha - Willis, MI

What type vehicle is featured on the show; we really like it.  Thanks

Hi,
The truck we were driving in the Manistique Show is a 2007 Hummer H3x. We loved it. Made the mistake when our lease ran out of buying a Hummer H3t truck. It is not as cool looking and is not as good in the snow and the storage is terrible.

Sincerely, Dennis Serra
Executive Producer Great Getaways

Saturday, January 17, 2009 1:09 PM
Gilbert Vasquez - Detroit, MI

I never fill out comment cards. I am more a cynic than anything.

I'm a life long Michigander and hope to always be, economy willing. I am sad that I have never taken the opportunity to travel much, especially in the U.P., and as I get older (only 23) I realize my life is very empty, filled with bills and work. I am a Detroit based artist and work within a collective of artists. Your show on Manistique was fantastic. My favorite show is 'Michigan out of doors', which preceeds yours on dptv ch 56. I dont think we, my collective known as CAVE, are equipped for the snow, although we are getting pounded right now, but this show has inspired me to consider it for a spring/summer exploration. All the parks discussed will make a great rebirth trip. We like to get back to nature. As artists we often live so much in the conceptual realm and get lost. So on occasion we like to get back to nature, picnic, do a little hiking or just hang out by a river. Its tough to find that in Detroit, although it is as wild sometimes as the great outdoors.

I wanted to let you know you now have a few new viewers, keep up the good work, and we will definitely be  keeping tabs on your travels for our sanity. It's a real breathe of fresh air to see this simple state. It is a boring state, but that is its crowning jewel. What some see as boring I see as an existential paradox, glorious and frightning.

- Gilbert Vasquez
Cave Gallery
Detroit

Saturday, January 17, 2009 1:05 PM
Michael Fry - Brighton, MI

Great presentation from Tom and his crew! Keep up the good work! I love the Manistique Area. So much to do there.

Saturday, January 17, 2009 1:01 PM
JoAnne Dorow - South Rockwood, MI

I really liked it & it made we want to try out some winter outdoor activities I haven't done before for a new trip experience.

Saturday, January 17, 2009 12:59 PM
Everett  Wilbur - Commerce Township, MI

I love your show. Sometimes you just don't know how good you have it in Michigan. My wife and I are going to get some snow shoes and head up north. Thank you for the enlighting adventure.
- Everett and Sue

Saturday, January 17, 2009 12:58 PM
Irene Dzuris - Washington, MI

Excellent, as always. Michigan has so much to offer. It is not just the home of the auto industry. With programs like this, I hope the rest of the country will hear about and appreciate our beautiful state.
Many thanks, Irene Dzuris

Sunday, January 18, 2009 7:38 PM
Chris Harbowy - Holly, MI

I love your show.  It is probably my favorite TV program.  I often retrace your travel suggestions. I canoe, hike, snowshow and snowmobile.  I'm thinking of trying X-country skiing.

Sunday, January 18, 2009 2:37 PM
Gail LaughingWolf Sweet - Milford, MI

First time watching your program and I enjoyed it. I love to be outdoors, especially after a fresh snowfall and so watching you snowshoe thru that powder snow made me want to try it. Thank you for showing how beautiful Michigan is in the winter. My husband and I dress for the cold and enjoy walks at Kensington Park, our favorite Metropark, but we have visited the UP many times and love it.
Thanks again for your TV program and offering this free DVD.

Sunday, January 18, 2009 11:57 AM
Clyde Burke Jr. - Grand Rapids, MI

The show this week was interesting to me as I have been to the Big Springs and Jack Pine Lodge.  I was in that area last spring to ride some of those same trails on ATV's. It was interesting to see the winter scenery. Now I need to make a trip there in the winter season. Great show this week.

Sunday, January 18, 2009 11:39 AM
Aimee Robinson - Richland, MI

It was so informational for me, I moved here from Florida to get the very experiences you showed, and I haven't had any opprotunities to enjoy much of Michigan yet. I was able see alot of what I needed to know for my sons and I to get to enjoy, eventually.... very appreciated...THANKS

Wednesday, January 21, 2009 2:39 AM
Kurt Melvin - Fowlerville, MI

I loved the show. My family vacations in the U.P. often, summer and winter. We stop at the Jack Pine Lodge for the great food and fun, we took a photo of us in the bar in 07, little did we know it would be one of the last photos and vacations with my brother Brad, He passed away from cancer in August. Brad loved the outdoors, He had a PHD in biology and plant pathology, He is greatly missed. I thank you for the show, I always enjoy watching, we have hunted fished and snowmobiled in the U.P. thank you

Saturday, January 24, 2009 1:09 PM
John Wallner - Rochester Hills, MI

I watched the snowmobiling episode. I like to be able to do this without going so far from home. West Branch sounds great. I want to plan a weekend of snow skiing and snowmobiling soon. Thanks for the DVD.

Saturday, January 24, 2009 12:58 PM
Ann Martin - Roseville, MI

I loved the show. As always the guys captured such beauty. I wish I could pack up the van and head that way right now. Hopefully someday soon we can visit the area and check it out for ourselves!

Sunday, January 25, 2009 5:31 PM
Timothy Sieggreen - Saginaw, MI

I spent most of my childhood years along the AuSable River and was reminded of many special memories I made each summer in the areas on today's show.  We used to spend all summer at Old Orchard Park and boy, what a great way to grow up! Thanks.

Sunday, January 25, 2009 6:28 AM
Gerald Dow - Lake Orion, MI

I have a cottage in nearby Iosco County and found your show to be very infomational.  I was pleased to learn that there were so many opportunities just across the county line. I can't wait to experience some of the things I saw in your show.  Thank You.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009 7:17 PM
Paul Lewis - Westland, MI

I really enjoyed this winter show in Ogemaw County. I saw the summer episode you taped in Ogemaw County which was also excellent.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 6:56 PM
Scott & Sharon Nichols - Rochester, MI

We love your show.  My wife and I never miss an episode, and because of your show, we have been able to visit many areas that we would have never know about. Please keep up the great work!

Saturday, January 31, 2009 6:15 PM
M. Stemmler - Lansing, MI

Outstanding!  Thank you so much for bringing this type of program to us.  Keep up the good work!

Saturday, January 31, 2009 6:01 PM
Douglas Harter - Haslett, MI

Loved the show! Our family has been taking our summer vacation in the UP for last five years. Many of the places were regular stops, but several were new to us. They will be on next years plans.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 5:59 PM
Travis Turner - Jackson , MI

I love Michigan and your show lets everyone know why.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 5:39 PM
Robert Hedman - Escanaba, MI

I enjoyed this week's show telling me about the historical and hidden hiking paths the UP has to offer. Your program gives me the information and preview of sites to see. This makes planning my trip better. Thank You.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 5:11 PM
Roger Hopkins - Commerce Twp, MI

I lost track of your show for a few years and by accident saw "Top of the Lake Circle Tour" today and wanted to say that it was good seeing you again. Thank you.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 4:33 PM
Keith Kleinbriel - Mount Pleasant, MI

I like the trails and destinations of the U.P.  You covered a lot of information in the program and made it very interesting for me.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 4:29 PM
Fred Wolff - Riverdale, MI

I loved it. I had no idea we had these destinations in Michigan. Thanks

Saturday, January 31, 2009 1:19 PM
Timothy Miller - Waterford, MI

It was very good. We have a cabin in the area and will keep the DVD there for visitors to view for sight seeing opportunities. Thanks for your work on this and the DVD offer.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 1:16 PM
Dennis Gootee - Plymouth, MI

I think that this is a good destination for me to vist this summer. Thanks for the guided tour and thanks for using an American vehicle!!!!!!!!

Saturday, January 31, 2009 1:09 PM
Charlie Harrison - Warren, MI

This week's show was just great! The U.P. is soo pretty ANYTIME of the year.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 1:05 PM
Gary Jarois - Royal Oak, MI

Very nice show, first time viewer.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 12:36 PM
Jiri Nagr - Pontiac, MI

I think this is a very quaint area to investigate and visit. We are presently hoping to visit these areas in the spring / summer of '09. Provided the the economy allows us to, if you know what I mean. Thank you for the fine job of informing us and others of the many unique places to see and visit within our region.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 12:35 PM
Ron Hill - Pellston, MI

We really liked the show,and want to say thank you for showing us a vacation land in our backyard.

Saturday, January 31, 2009 11:08 AM
Fred D.  Russell - Sanford, MI

I only caught the last part but what I saw I did enjoy. I enjoy watching all of your shows especially the shows that focus on the UP. Keep up the good work!  Also I use your web site quite often.

February 2009

What did you think of this week's show?

Sunday, February 01, 2009 11:53 AM
Daniel  Cnossen - Zeeland, MI

I watched this weeks episode on my local PBS channel and became inspired to plan a family vacation to the northern/upper Michigan areas featured on your show. Keep up the great work.

Monday, February 02, 2009 10:49 AM
John Smolinski - Westland, MI

First time I've seen the show: great! Appreciate learning about Michigan's 'hidden gems'.

Wednesday, February 04, 2009 7:59 PM
Carolyn - Shelby Twp, MI

Dear Tom. Re Kayaking Tuttle Marsh. By way of identification, my husband and I were there with our friend, Sue, when you filmed this program. I watched from the bank, with our large black dog. Looking through the pictures on your web site, all are good, but #078 caught my eye. Did you realize your good fortune in photographing the famous, but seldom seen, Tuttle Marsh Monster as it rose out of the water to feed on its favorite food, a tree snag?        : )  Carolyn

Saturday, February 07, 2009 8:34 PM
Christine Marlow - Sterling Hgts, MI

We were so interested in the show , we decide to make the Owen Sound area our vacation destination this summer.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 4:49 PM
Jamie Costigan - Davisburg, MI

I really enjoyed the waterfalls show this weekend.  It caught my eye because we just got into camping with out 4 kids.  We have scheduled a week trip this summer to the Bruce Peninsula and the Pinary.  After seeing your show, a few stops at the falls in between looks likely.  Thanks.  Looking forward to getting the tour guide.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 4:31 PM
Randall Schenk - Bad Axe, MI

In one word....awesome!! We are avid motorcyclists and are looking for a trip just like this one.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 3:33 PM
Jerry Walker - Langley, British Columbia, Canada

Great!!! I am originally from Montrose, MI, and I watch your program on PBS.  We have Star Choice Satellite for TV up here, and they allow us the Detroit and Seattle Networks also.  That is how I get to watch your show.  Thanks.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 2:28 PM
Charles L Johnson - Pleasant Ridge, MI

My wife & I loved it.  You got a feel for the area, it's beauty, the closeness of attractions to each other.  It helped create a feeling that they wanted to share these wonders with people - that you'd be welcomed.  We also appreciated tips about dining and overnight accomodations as well.  Keep up the good work!

Saturday, February 07, 2009 1:09 PM
Heather Amlin - Essex, ON

Fantastic Show. I lived in Walters Falls and we had a beautiful waterfalls within 1000' of our home. My boys spent hours there. This show reminded me of how I miss the Grey/Bruce area. My son takes his son there with his wife every October for photos. Keep up the Fantastic work.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 1:01 PM
Jim Trofin - Windsor, ON

Very Informative. Although we are Canadians living in Ontario, like Michigan, there is sooooo much we have not even discovered in our own area. Your show brought to life more of the locations we will have to visit. Great show and excellent information.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 1:03 PM
Janet Zemke - Lambertville, MI

It was great.  It will be a great weekend getaway.  Planning on visiting in 2009.

Saturday, February 07, 2009 12:03 PM
Cheryl Gage - Fountain, MI

My husband and I are wildlife photographers and we like those out of the way , no one knows places.  So thank you for telling of them in your show! I tried to download the map to Ashford Lake Pathway but couldn't get it, would you please send me the map? I love your show, keep up the good work!

Hi Cheryl,
Thanks for watching Great Getaways. There is a version of the Ashford Pathway map online at:
http://www.visitmanistique.com/skiashford.html I'm not sure why you were unable to download it, but here is the PDF map file link again: http://visitmanistique.com/images/Asford_Pathway.pdf
I hope that's what you were looking for.
Thanks,
Bryan McGuire
Great Getaways Online

Sunday, February 08, 2009 12:44 PM
Diane Bodell - Hudsonville, MI

My husband and I enjoy your show so much.  We have planned several trips around it. This September. we plan to visit Grey County and the Bruce Peninsula for a week, maybe two.  Keep up the good work.  Thank you!

Sunday, February 08, 2009 12:13 PM
Mike & Marilyn Slater - Pierson, MI

We loved the show on waterfalls & are very interested in planning a trip to see them. Please send us the information. Thanks!

Sunday, February 08, 2009 11:35 AM
Susan Overholt - Newaygo, MI

I really thought the falls were beautiful - did not know we could find trails like this so close to us.  Thank you!

Sunday, February 08, 2009 11:27 AM
Joe Bronson - Otsego, MI

I loved it!! great vacation ideas on an area i've always wanted to know about. Thank you.

Monday, February 09, 2009 2:25 PM
Lee Gunnett - Dorr, MI

I thought it was great and very informative.  It is not a trip that I would have thought or known about doing until I saw the show.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:38 PM
Fred  Sheeler - Claremore, OK

Great show on our local TV. Please send info on waterfalls in Ontario as we will be headed that way in late spring. Thanks

Wednesday, February 11, 2009 10:15 AM
Richard Kirtos - Farmington Hills, MI

What is the name and location of the waterfall at the beginning of the show? Thanks.

Hi Richard,
Weavers Creek Falls in Harrison Park is the first waterfall featured in the show. You can check the video clips on the
travel planner page to see if that is the waterfall you are asking about. Thanks for watching!
Bryan McGuire
Great Getaways Online

Saturday, February 14, 2009 6:01 PM
Marti  Cooper - St. Johns, MI

WONDERFUL! We have toured many of the lighthouses around the Michigan perimeter and hope to find a lot more!

Saturday, February 14, 2009 3:18 PM
Kevin Alles - Kingsville, Ontario

My father and I spent a couple of days last summer on a lighthouse tour in the Bruce Peninsula. We went to every lighthouse you showcased except one. It was great seeing them again! Great Show!

Saturday, February 21, 2009 8:13 PM
Ray Boroughf - Jackson, MI

My wife and I loved the show, as we do all of your shows.  Particularly partial to shows like this one because it was so "peaceful".  Thanks for all that you do to make shows, like this one, available for viewers like me.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 6:19 PM
Tom White - Mason, MI

Great show -- I always enjoy the shows that are right in Michigan so the destinations are easy to reach.  I enjoyed the Hoist Lake Trail hiking segment as I have a friend who lives quite close to that location.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:17 PM
Brian Baczkowski - Warren, MI

I really enjoyed this weeks show, as it was taken from one of my favorite vacation destinations: Oscoda, MI.  We have taken many kayak/canoe trips down the Ausable River.  We found that fishing was great too, as the fish were very aggressive from the low traffic.  We've met Mr. Miller many times at Outdoorama, where he displayed is superior wilderness craft skills. Keep up the great work.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:15 PM
Michael Conte - Warren, MI

This is my favorite area in the UP. Lots of things to do and watching the shoe just got me itching to visit again. Thank You.
PS I love your photo gallery

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:09 PM
Elaine McGreevy - Linden , MI

I just finished watching your program with Tom O'Boyle along the Au Sable River in the Oscoda area.  It brought back wonderful memories of the years when our children were younger and we spent 16 summers in a row at Sunnyside Cottages in Greenbush and canoed down the Au Sable river every year.  They are all in college now and it is difficult to find time together. Watching your program made me determined to get everyone together and go back this summer, even if it is just for a day of canoeing.  Thank you.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:06 PM
Bill  Kacanowski - Ray Twp, MI

Excellent show this week; I especially enjoy walking in the woods and enjoying the solitude when my family and I go "up north" in Michigan.  Please keep up the good work on these "Michigan" shows.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:09 PM
Joe Bondy - Windsor, ON

Very informative for me and my wife and our new girl. We opted to travel to lake Michigan last summer but had our eye on the Oscoda/Tawas area. We feel that this side of the state would be easier for us and our newborn. Just hoping to score one of the 100 free DVD's. Thanks again.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:08 PM
Ron  Lepisto - Goodrich, MI

I thought your show was very entertaining and it actually gets you thinking about going on just a hike. Most everyone these days are so caught up in doing thing that usually have a big price tag conected to them. You seem to forget about the simple things like taking a hike. And there are so many trails in Michigan one can just take a few hours out of a day and get a little exercise out in nature. What a relaxing way to get a little peace in your life. And it's right at our back door. There are a lot of people that have to travel quite a distance to have the experience that we have right outside. What a blessing that is.
  I think your show is right on the money and perfect for us here in Michigan. With all the violence and coruption we see on the news, its refreshing to sit back and watch what you have to offer. Keep up the good work and I'll be front and center next week to view your program again.
  And if you have one of those exra dvd's to send, I would greatly appreciate it.. Thank you

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:02 PM
Jeff Bennett - Westland, MI

Very nice Job. We have tubed and traveled on the river numerous times. I did not know that the additional hiking trails and lakes were present. Again thank you and as always very nice show.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:01 PM
Curt Dybash - Troy, MI

Enjoyed the show - Oscoda was a family destination for years on the "Sunrise" side of the state.  It certainly does not get the credit of a vacation spot that Traverse City & Mackinaw Island does.  Thank you for sharing, and allowing me to relive my experiences in Oscoda.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:03 PM
Peggy Surdu - Clarkston, MI

It was just what I have been looking for as I am a beginner kayak person. At my age (60) the Au Sable in Oscoda is calm enough for me.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:03 PM
Patty Johnson - Warren, MI

I loved this show.  Been going to the AuSable River outside of Oscoda since I was born in 1952.  Great Grand Parents camped between Foote & Cook Ponds.  I would love to have the DVD of this show. Thanks for putting a spot light on this area. And thanks for reminding people to clean up after themselves.  I've seen too many beautiful spots along the river that have been abused with broken glass and trash.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:00 PM
Nick Winkler - Berkley, MI

Great show. Northern Michigan canoeing/kayaking is outstanding and the trip on the Au Sable showed just that. It also showed the whole family can have a fun, relaxing trip down the river.  Keep up the good work!

Saturday, February 21, 2009 12:59 PM
Jess Gerow - Clawson, MI

I found this show very informative. I havent camped/canoed on the AuSable in a couple of years, and now I am planning a summer trip. Thanks for all the great information.

Saturday, February 21, 2009 11:06 AM
Greg Swanson - Grawn, MI

I enjoy the show, this week was especially good.  I like how Tom gives so much information on fun recreational things to do in Michigan.  Things the average family can easily afford, and enjoy.  Keep up the good work, and I'll keep watching.

Sunday, February 22, 2009 11:28 AM
Sarah Shaffer - Big Rapids, MI

The show has convinced me to go ahead and buy some kayaks for myself and my family that I have put off too long!!  Great job; you've captured the beauty of one of Michigan's precious gems- the AuSable!

Sunday, February 22, 2009 11:28 AM
Shirley Brauker - Coldwater, MI

We love kayaking in Michigan, but have done the Platt River area and Lake Michigan.  Also lots of lakes in Branch County and northern Indiana.  I was really pleased to see such a beautiful, family friendly river in other areas of Michigan.  I have my map out right now planning a trip next summer.

Sunday, February 22, 2009 11:28 AM
Theresa  Bloomberg - Plainwell, MI

We love your show and look forward to watching it every Sunday. We never knew there were so many beautiful places to visit in our own state of Michigan. We can't wait to get our free DVD from you. Thank you

Sunday, February 22, 2009 11:29 AM
Shirley Brauker - Coldwater, MI

We love kayaking in Michigan, but have done the Platt River area and Lake Michigan.  Also lots of lakes in Branch County and northern Indiana.  I was really pleased to see such a beautiful, family friendly river in other areas of Michigan.  I have my map out right now planning a trip next summer.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009 11:55 AM
Marilyn Jones - Belding, MI

My husband and I loved the show! It was great, and the scenery was wonderful. We are very interested in any and all information on Oscoda, canoeing and camping the AuSable River. We love the outdoors and are avid bikers, campers, and we took our first canoe trip this past summer and we absolutely loved it! We want to do more, and the AuSable looks absolutely gorgeous, and a great place to go and do all the things we love to do. Please send us any and all information on everything. We would greatly appreciate it.
Thank-you

Thursday, February 26, 2009 11:07 AM
Martine Stanton - Plymouth, FL

We watched your program on the Oscoda River and the AuSable Kayak/Canoe trips and fell in love.  We are avid kayakers and would love to visit the area and definitely enjoy a trip down the river.  Thanks for showing this beautiful part of the U.S.  It is now on our agenda to visit.



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