JULY 2025
SPONSORED BY
Why Non Toxic? |||
As a wife and mother, I started making Prenti candles as a way to enjoy everything a candle has to offer without worry.
And like most moms, when I didn’t like what I was finding, I took matters into my own hands and figured out what wax(s) were good and which ones were not so good.
Along with fragrances, I came up with my own recipe to making a candle that we all could feel good about lighting in our home.
Bowen Arrows Waterfowl Taxidermy
Bowen Arrows Waterfowl Taxidermy
In the heart of Munger, a quiet and creative force is at work—turning feathers, form, and family time into something extraordinary.
Meet Bowen Arrows Waterfowl Taxidermy, a small-town shop with big dedication. Founded by a stay-at-home mom who stumbled upon her passion between playdates and nap times, this business is as unexpected as it is impressive.
What began as a hobby—mounting a single duck—quickly grew into a full-fledged artistry backed by both state and federal licensure. Today, Bowen Arrows is becoming a go-to name for ethically sourced, lifelike waterfowl displays across Mid-Michigan.
🦆 Feathers with a Story
Each mount is a personal project, handcrafted with care and precision. Whether it’s a drake with busted wings or a custom driftwood scene awaiting a hen next season, no detail goes unnoticed.
🎯 Passion Turned Profession
The business name is a nod to both the founder’s family and her aim for excellence. And while there may be no storefront (yet), the heart and hustle behind Bowen Arrows has already earned it a loyal following and steady flow of custom orders.
🏡 Rooted in Munger
This isn't a high-volume operation—it’s a labor of love, built in the margins of motherhood, and it shows. Every post, every mount, every reply to a client reflects a deep pride in the craft.
“We’re flying into the weekend,” they recently posted alongside a beautiful greenhead display. That’s the spirit of Bowen Arrows: joy, skill, and gratitude.
📧 Contact: [email protected]
📍 Location: Munger, Michigan
📸 See More on Facebook: Bowen Arrows Waterfowl Taxidermy
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or someone who just appreciates natural beauty preserved with care, Bowen Arrows is worth keeping on your radar.
TEACHER OF THE MONTH
Echo Ranney | 2nd Grade Teacher, Reese Elementary School
Golden Apple Award Winner
This month, we’re thrilled to re-highlight one of Mid-Michigan’s most beloved educators: Echo Ranney, a 2nd grade teacher at Reese Elementary School and past recipient of the Golden Apple Award.
Known for her infectious energy and fierce dedication to her students, Echo doesn’t just teach—she builds a classroom family. Her motto? Students first. Her method? Be their biggest cheerleader, and never stop believing in what they’re capable of.
For nearly 2 decades, Echo has poured her heart into the young minds of Reese, shaping more than just reading and math skills. She creates a safe, uplifting environment where students feel seen, heard, and deeply valued—especially those who come with behavioral challenges or tough backstories. For Echo, that’s where the real magic happens.
“I love a good challenge,” she says. “Watching a student grow from where they started to where they finish—there’s nothing more rewarding.”
Her students agree. One even nominated her for the Golden Apple, recognizing the life-changing impact she had on their family. That nomination turned into an award—but Echo remains focused on the work at hand: showing up for each student, every day, no matter what.
When asked what keeps her going, Echo lights up:
“The bond. The relationships. The little moments you don’t forget.”
As the next school year approaches, her desk now holds a shining reminder of what her students already know: Echo Ranney is one-of-a-kind.
And Mid-Michigan is lucky to have her.
👏 Congratulations, Echo—and thank you for a lifetime of unwavering heart, grit, and excellence in education.
GOOD NEWS
Proverbs 9:10, NIV
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
We live in a world that prizes information—but not always wisdom. This verse reminds us where true understanding begins: with reverence.
To fear the Lord isn’t to tremble in terror, but to recognize His holiness, authority, and goodness with the awe He deserves. It’s the starting point for every good decision, every lasting relationship, and every moment of clarity.
When we know the Holy One—not just facts about Him, but know Him—life takes on a different shape. We begin to see more clearly, think more deeply, and walk more humbly.
This kind of wisdom doesn't come from textbooks or trending opinions.
It begins with worship.
And that’s the kind of understanding this world could use more of.
RECIPE TO TRY
Collard Green Wontons brought to you by Yummo!
Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta
INGREDIENTS
CHICKEN
2 chicken breast, butterflied & halved
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp pepper
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoke paprika
SAUCE
1 box bowtie pasta
1 ½ cup heavy cream
½ red pepper, diced
½ green pepper, diced
2 shallots diced
1 tsp red chilli flakes
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp butter
1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook al dente. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add butter to saucepan and once melted, add in garlic, onions, peppers for 5–6 minutes until softened. Once cooked, add to a bowl and set aside.
Once chicken breast has been butterflied and halved. Place on a baking sheet and season well. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in vegetable oil. While skillet is heating, beat 2 eggs and add to a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, add together flour, bread crumbs, 1/2 parmesan cheese, onion + garlic powder, salt + pepper. Mix together until combined. Add 1 chicken breast at a time to the egg mixture followed by the bread crumb mixture. Shake off any access flour & breadcrumbs.* Place coated chicken on baking sheet until oil is heated.
Once oil is at 350°F temp. Carefully add in one piece of chicken one at a time (away from you) to the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes per side. Once chicken is cooked, place on drying rack and top with a sprinkle of salt and set aside.
Add cream, to a large sauce pan over medium–high heat. Once combined, mix together. Add in seasonings and freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix together until sauce has thickened. Around 6–7 minutes. Once sauce is thickened, bring sauce to a low simmer. Add pasta & cooked peppers & onions to the sauce. Mix together until all pasta & vegetables are evenly coated. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, black pepper & red chili flakes. Plate pasta and top with sliced crispy chicken. Enjoy ~
Brought to you by Yummo!
FAVORITE EATS
Gratzi | Midland, Michigan
Gratzi
Exquisite Italian Restaurant with Distinctive Style
When it comes to elegant dining in the Great Lakes Bay Region, few places capture both sophistication and soul quite like Gratzi.
Located in the heart of downtown Midland, Gratzi delivers a full-course experience inspired by old-world Italian hospitality—where meals aren’t rushed but shared, savored, and remembered.
🍝 A Culinary Journey
Start with a seasonal antipasti board featuring imported meats and cheeses, then choose from over a dozen handcrafted pasta entrées ranging from timeless classics to bold contemporary creations. Guests rave about the Espresso-Rubbed Filet Mignon, Veal Scallopine, and the Top Knife award-winning Pan-Seared Chilean Seabass—a house favorite that lives up to every ounce of the hype.
🔥 Made from Scratch. Fired with Passion.
Gratzi’s industrial gas-fired stone oven churns out artisan pizzas with golden, blistered crusts and toppings as refined as the rest of the menu. Fresh seafood is flown in daily from Foley’s of Boston, and local herbs and vegetables are sourced whenever possible.
🍋 Don’t Skip Dessert
Round out the night with a decadent hand-crafted dessert or house-made limoncello and toast to a meal well enjoyed.
🕗 Hours:
Mon–Thurs: 4–10 PM
Fri–Sat: 4–11 PM
Sun: 4–9 PM
📍 120 E. Main St, Midland, MI 48640
📞 (989) 394-1125
🌐 gratzimidland.com
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something exceptional, Gratzi offers an experience that’s layered, flavorful, and utterly unforgettable.
Benvenuto. Buon divertimento. Buon appetito.
MICHIGAN MADE
Cedar Michigan Adirondack Set – 2 Michigan Adirondack Chairs 1 UP Table
The Laughing Whitefish | Cedar Michigan Adirondack Set
Crafted in Standish, MI
This summer, we're putting our feet up—and we're doing it in pure Michigan style.
The Cedar Michigan Adirondack Set by The Laughing Whitefish blends comfort, craftsmanship, and state pride into one unforgettable backyard essential. Built from natural Northern White Cedar, this handcrafted set includes two classic Adirondack chairs with Michigan-shaped backs and a matching Upper Peninsula table—perfect for your porch, patio, or firepit nights.
🪵 Built for Comfort and Character
Each chair is sanded smooth, with a 20° recline that hits the sweet spot between laid-back and easy-to-get-up-from. At just 30 lbs, they’re surprisingly lightweight without compromising strength.
🪑 Customizable Touches
Want to make it yours? Add on the Rolled Front Seat for extra leg comfort or the Wine Glass Holder Armrest (yes, seriously). Whether you're sipping lemonade or something stronger, this set has you covered.
🌲 Naturally Durable
Cedar is naturally resistant to insects and moisture, and will gracefully age to a soft gray if left unfinished. Prefer color? Go ahead and paint or stain it—this set comes unfinished so you can customize the look.
🔧 Easy Assembly
All parts ship partially assembled, with hardware and clear instructions included. Setup is simple. Relaxation is immediate.
📍 Made in Standish, MI
🛒 $367.95 (on sale from $419)
🌐 The Laughing Whitefish
📦 Ships in 5–7 business days (may vary during peak season)
This summer, sit back in something handcrafted, heartfelt, and 100% Michigan made.
JOB POSTINGS
Professional House Cleaner
Join Custom Maids and build a career with immediate growth opportunity, competitive industry pay, and performance bonuses! Earn your first promotion within 14 days.
With opportunities to advance to $30+/hour over your career. Enjoy flexibility, job stability, and a supportive work environment where hard work is rewarded.
Excavation Laborer
📧 Inquiries: Send us a message here or give us a call 989-625-9979
Now hiring laborers for full-time outdoor work. No experience needed—just a strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
Equipment Operator
📧 Inquiries: Send us a message here or give us a call 989-625-9979
Seeking experienced operators for excavators, dozers, and loaders. Must be reliable and ready to work. Competitive pay.
Assistant Engineer
Now hiring a full-time Assistant Engineer to support capital projects, asset management, and field inspections for roads, water, and sewer. Starting at $33.11/hr with full benefits under UWUA Local 541.
THIS MONTH IN HISTORY
Tornadoes Strike Saginaw County
Tornadoes Strike Saginaw County 28 Years Ago
JULY 2, 1997
A cluster of F1 tornadoes touched down across Saginaw County during a devastating storm system that swept the Great Lakes region.
Near Chesaning, one tornado tore siding from homes, shattered windows, downed trees, and destroyed a garage.
In Maple Grove, another twister leveled two barns and ripped through a residential neighborhood.
In Burt, winds damaged a house, uprooted trees, and tossed a child’s wooden playhouse 20 feet.
The outbreak was part of a larger system that produced 52 confirmed tornadoes across multiple states and provinces from July 1–3, 1997. While no fatalities were reported in Saginaw County, the damage left a lasting mark and remains one of the area’s most significant weather events in living memory.
MID-MICHIGAN’S MOST DELIGHTFUL CLEANING SERVICE
OUR SERVICES:
One-Time Deep Cleanings
Rejuvenating Fresh Start Service
Monthly Deep Clean Service
Regular Bi-Weekly Service
Regular Weekly Service
Serving all Residential & Commercial Clients within a 30 mile radius of Wenona Street in Bay City, Michigan!
THANK YOU FOR READING
We’re so grateful you spent part of your day with us.
As summer hits its stride, we’re reminded that every season has its own kind of beauty—and its own kind of work. This month, we’ve honored that spirit through the voices of business owners, educators, cooks, and community leaders who are making a difference one small act at a time.
Thank you for letting us be part of your July.
We’ll be back on August 1st with fresh faces, fresh stories, and a renewed love for life in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Until then—stay kind, stay curious, and stay rooted in what matters.
The Mid-Michigan Monthly Team
Mid-Michigan’s Most Delightful House Cleaning Service