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Rhonda's Report, 8364 Mule Team Trail, Atlanta, FL (2025)

12/11/2025

Purple point is one of those places on the ranch reached by hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling, and in fact, is a favorite of the sledders. You can follow the south fence’s wonderful roller coaster from the south gate, which is not groomed, or reach the point off a small trail near gas site 26. The vista is worth the visit – wide open spaces with purple forest on the horizon.

It’s one of the hidden jewels here, as is Blue Point further up the trail. If you do go out back, even in the dead of winter, you will see color amongst the drifts of snow. Rusty leaves, green spruces, a great blue sky that opens up because of the bare woods – all await in the quiet landscape, where, to quote Robert Frost, “the only other sound’s the sweep of easy wind and downy flake.”

Soon out back trails will be closed to wheeled vehicles, but for now are still open. Elk season begins on December 13 and will end sometime around a week later. We’ve had a good six or more inches of snow that has stayed put. It has hardened into a nice base and is still navigable by truck.

The deer are starting to walk onto the lake ice, but some areas are still thin. More doe archery kills were reported since gun season’s end: Tony Zedan took one on state property, and Jake Kanine and Brady Kanine brought theirs in from ranch property.

We are hoping to hang onto a white Christmas without too much winter treachery. Some have asked where good sledding (the kid kind) is on the ranch. We have many hills, most famously in the “bowl” on Bridge Trail or the snow-covered sand hill. Also the hill off the baseball field allows sleds to speed all the way down to the beach pavilion.

The Ranch House Grille will remain closed until the middle of April; however, the Recreation Committee is planning once-a-month potlucks until then. January 22 at 6 p.m. is the first one, in the dining room. Members and their guests are invited to bring a dish to share. Tableware will be provided by the committee. It’s a great way to gather and talk to your neighbors.

As we all prepare for the Christmas season and the New Year, let’s remember all of our good gifts here and share with our community and neighbors. Hygiene and food donations are still being taken in the Ranch House entryway. Also, some have grandkids or family on the way, but remember those who don’t and might appreciate a visit to share some holiday cheer.

What are some great Christmas presents? You just can’t beat a broken drum. The wisemen gave gold and frankincense, but then they gave even myrrh. Frosty the snowman gives ice krispies, and Santa gave grandma some Comet to clean her sink last year. Have fun gift shopping and giving! Peace and happiness.

12/05/2025

There is some slippery business going on at the Ranch this week. Even though trails were plowed promptly, a thin undercoat of ice is making for careful driving. If you’re going down a hill and around a curve, you might want to make sure you’re in traction mode and go slowly, unless you and your vehicle would like to go skating.

Members have been warned to be wary of going up or down “Virginia Hill” and Wild Fowl Trail’s hill by the lake entrance. Virginia Hill is so named as it is the entrance to Virginia Park. It begins right past the West Plain’s intersection with Painted Pony. Last year, Virginia Hill’s sides were widened to facilitate better navigation. Speaking from experience, if your vehicle wheels cannot gain traction, throwing dirt or the mix inside the blue barrels located on some of the hills should help.

Though it’s icy, the lakes have still not iced over entirely. Our lakes are spring-fed, so a few more weeks of the frigid air will help out with the ice fishing. Stickered snowmobiles can now run around on the ranch until elk season begins on December 13, and then again after elk season ends around December 21.

The Conservation Committee is looking for volunteers to make sure branches have not fallen lately on outback trails, to facilitate the elk hunt. Wheeled vehicles are still allowed out back, so if you are handy to help clear, and are riding out there, bring clippers and chainsaws.

Because the elk lottery is state directed, nonmembers who pulled this area can hunt elk on the ranch after remitting the fee. They must be guided by ranch members. Our own hunters wrapped up regular rifle season on November 30, with Dave Weber, Jeremy Josephson, and Tristen Folick bringing in does.

Other wildlife has been a joy to view at the Ranch, such as the now-grown fox with a huge fluffy tail running into the woods from Bridge Trail. Deer are bedding down in snow banks in their donkey-length fur, and turkeys run for their lives looking for any dropped birdseed. Signs of bear activity are now limited. Raccoons are naturally slow (not drunk) this time of year, so be considerate if one is crossing the trail.

Christmas lights are popping up more and more on the ranch, so take a little ride around to enjoy. Many members are preparing for families to arrive for the holiday. We are also still collecting hygiene products, food, and gifts for the needy families in our communities. If you can help, just donate or pick up information from the Ranch entryway.

If you are baking cookies for your family, just remember the gingerbread men like to sit near the oven to keep their buns warm. Otherwise they may have to go to the doctor if they feel crumby. Peace and happiness!

11/26/2025

The white-headed bald eagle is swooping around Tibbit’s Landing, even as dark skies surround us and the prediction is for snow on this Thanksgiving weekend. There’s only about 9 hours daylight per day, and the November wind and rain has knocked down all but a few oak leaves. Has anyone else noticed how huge they are this year? It’s an always changing season in the north.

Hunters are still venturing out into the woods, looking for that last elusive buck. Many bucks were taken this year, but we are still not up to last year’s 33 total. Bucks since last report and their points were harvested by guest Greg Caldwell – 5, Earl Sowers – 8, Josh Delecki – 10, Tom Taylor – 8, Lanny Cotner – 6, and Brandon Rumble – 7. Does taken since last report include Aaron Jones, Camden Jones, Jason Ellis, Shawn Wikelius, Ken Droomer on state land, Lanny Cotner, Michael Larson, Jon Geister, guest Dylan Kamph, and Bob Kowaleski.

The Ladies Auxiliary is seeking donations for our larger community. Please help if you can; the need is great! At the Ranch House lobby door are bins for hygiene and food products, which will be distributed at the Caring Place, the Atlanta schools, New Beginnings in Hillman, the Courtesy Club in Onaway, and the Department of Health and Human Services for Montmorency County. Also in the Ranch House is the Christmas tree with names of those who could use a helping hand this season. Take a cut-out off the tree, buy items, and return them wrapped for your chosen person with the tag attached to it. This is the season for giving and Thanksgiving!

The Canada Creek Regional Foundation would like to thank all who participated in the fundraising raffle for the Hunters’ Roundup. The raffle winners were Ron Crawford, first place, for the ebike, trailer, and Jay’s gift certificate, Jamil Mansour, second prize, for the kayak and Jay’s gift certificate, and Derrick Vanluken, third, for a $250 Jay’s gift certificate. This charity is run by volunteers, with all net proceeds supporting the Canada Creek Watershed.

The Ranch House has a newly renovated suite ready for members and their guests! Included are 925 square feet, with a view of Lake Geneva and accommodation for six people. Two bedrooms, smart TV, living room furniture, and dining with kitchenette will make you feel at home! Call the front desk for reservations.

Montmorency County is forming VOAD (Volunteer Organization Active in Disaster) through the Office of Emergency Management, holding an informative meeting on December 4 at 6 p.m. at Atlanta Senior Center. Discussion will include preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation in the event of disasters like the ice storm we had, or any other type. All interested are invited to attend.

We hope we never have another ice storm, but winter is coming, when the snowmen and snowwomen rejoice and have a snowball! But if you see a snowman in August around here, he is either lost or a puddle. Peace and happiness this season!

11/21/2025

Generations of deer camps have evolved from the small cabins to the larger residences we see on Canada Creek Ranch. Back in the day, a 420 square feet cabin would host uncles, brothers, and cousins snoring in harmony on cots, beds, and even the floor. Shared meals in one place and subsequent card playing continue to take place, though, late into the night. After a few hours’ sleep, hunters sneak out to their blinds before the sun reveals their whereabouts. Decades ago, hunters who stayed at the Ranch House would hear the bell ringing up and down the hallway, calling them to breakfast in the dining room. Now, most want to get out there before everyone else, so forgo the big cooked breakfast with a quick bite on the way out.

The following hunters who got there first and harvested does on CCR property, opening day through November 18, are: Matt Freimark, Cory Wright, Greg Harden with two, Matt Rick, Roger Harden, Gary Harden, Stephen Harden, Aaron Jones, Trent Priest, guest Dale Staley, Mike Swartz, Don Herrmann, Dave Blanton, and Jason Ellis. Ryan Caliguri and Bob Delecki also got does on state land.

Buck trophies taken from the Ranch with these points went to the following: Matt Weber – 7, Craig Smith – 8, Dennis Swartz – 10, Matt Freimark – 8, guest Rolly Wolford – 6, Mike Heide – 8, Dan Hileman – 8, Pat Vostal – 8, Carrie Mariuz – 8, Kelly Mariuz – 7, Scott Nuttall – 8, Joseph Glasslee – 8, Nick Schulz – 8, Eric Delecki – 6, Brandon Carswell – 4, Dale Hugo – 8, Michael Mansfield – 9, Glenn Herrmann – 7, Jason Fannon – 9, Eric Standfest – 8, and Mike Polovina – 8. Guests Jeff Hodge and Justin Fink harvested 8-point bucks on state property. Congratulations to all of our hunters!

After opening day weekend, hunters retreat home, whether it’s with a prize or not. But the rifle season continues, welcoming back weekend warriors until the end of November. Many take advantage of the Thanksgiving holiday to get their final rounds in. For those hunters who are here to avoid the Black Friday madness, a shared potluck Thanksgiving dinner will take place Thursday at the Ranch house. This is instead of the ranch cooking. Sign up at the ranch house or call the front desk by November 25, and then bring a dish to pass. Don’t forget football at 1 p.m.! We’re hoping Dan Campbell takes the Lions to victory over the Packers, and his nose doesn’t turn red from frustration!

The lakes are not frozen over yet, and highs continue to be in the 40s, so no ice fishing yet. We’ve had some dustings of snow, but nothing to write home about. After Thanksgiving, it’s time to get the pumpkins in, and many will put up their Christmas décor. Holiday lights are already starting to be seen around the ranch! If you’re looking to get some new decorations, Home Depot has some in Aisle B, Home for Christmas. Peace and happiness to you!

11/13/2025

Why do people buy into or move to Canada Creek Ranch? Personally, three generations before me purchased a lot from the Monteith Land Company that became Canada Creek Ranch in the 1930’s. It was begun as the blue-collar’s answer to a hunting club, with over 13,000 acres of beautiful, wild woods and lakes. The cabins slowly populated our Ranch, with most coming for summer vacations and hunting or fishing. It remains a quiet place of respite for many of us.

Quiet is probably a key ranch word, as we are away from the bustle of downstate, or even Alpena, Atlanta, and Ga***rd. If you’re on one of the main trails, you may hear a car or side-by-side once every few hours, unless it’s the summer rush or some event is going on. Yet we continue to keep those roads plowed, brined, and graveled better than some of the county’s.

A hike on any day can revive the spirit, as the Ranch is very walk-able either out back, around Lake Geneva, or past the quiet cabins. So many bird species can be heard, and in the winter the air is just different up here. Our trees right now are shedding their leaves – we were lucky they even regenerated after last spring’s ice storm. Do you remember our heartfelt sorrow as we watched them groan and crack? Most of the cabins were miraculously spared, when all of nature endured the torment.

We should all be so resilient. I can honestly say that all members love the ranch for what it is, even with our menial grumbling that seems to arise every time there’s a change. We don’t always like changes around here. And many things stay the same as when my great-grandpa decided to build that log cabin. But our deepest wish is to keep the Ranch healthy and the jewel it has always been.

As the rifle hunters begin their quests, they truly know the value of our wildlife and the peace that comes from settling into a cozy, quiet blind. And when we look around, whether it is through the blind screen at a buck or visiting our gem of a Ranch House, there is a certain satisfaction knowing prior generations were here. Indeed, many hunting spots were “where my dad would hunt.” A lot of what ties us to this place are the countless family stories that begin “When my dad and uncles played euchre here…” “When mom would ring the bell…” “When my brother got us lost…” “We tracked that buck for five miles until…” Those who newly join appreciate that quality of passed down stories as they try to create their own memories with children and grandchildren.

“What is all this worth?” we ponder. When others spend small fortunes on vehicles, lot rents, Christmas gifts, clothes, and more, I get to look out at the glistening lake with aspen leaves gently shaking, listen to a loon’s call, smell the pine and cedars. I don’t think you can put a price on regenerating your spirit here.

11/06/2025

Turning over new leaves and changing of the guard are the protocol here at the Ranch. Fair weather residents are closing their cabins and heading south, whether it is just downstate or down to other states. Draining and pouring the pink stuff down the plumbing, turning down the thermostat, covering or pulling in all of the outdoor furniture, flipping the circuit breakers – all the business of saying goodbye until spring for many. Those who are leaving are missing the mixed November weather of snow and rainbows.

And now the hunters arrive for “camps” – a multitude of bearded men and camo-dressed women with guns for the November 15th opening day. Blinds are the new habitat as hopeful shooters nestle down with their snacks and other time-passing activities, waiting for the rustle of a prize buck.

Their return in the evening to shared stories and shared meals at camp hopefully includes a venison haul. Meals are usually hearty stews, chilis, pastas, casseroles, and more in simmering crockpots or roasters. Also, the Ranch House Grille is slated to be open during hunting season on Fridays 4 to 8 p.m., Saturdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays 8 a.m. to noon.

Early this month, guiding the hunters’ way out of the woods, is November’s Beaver Moon, the largest and brightest “super” moon of the year. It is so named by the Farmer’s Almanac because it’s when beavers are preparing their winter homes and trappers are setting traps before the water freezes. A supermoon is when a full moon’s orbit brings it closest to the earth.

Archers are wrapping up their week of hunting, and since the last report, the following had a great harvest: Jamal Mansour, Jerry Briggs, Ted Piechota, and J.J. Earl all shot does. Back in the day, shooting does just for meat was frowned upon, but now we know better than to let does overwhelm the deer population. Also, killing for meat instead of for trophy actually is more ethical. Jeff Schaible bagged an 8-point, 162-pound buck, though, achieving both trophy and meat! The buck was considered to be 4-1/2 years old after it was aged. All hunters should remember to sign in their harvests at the ranch house.

The deer cooler is open for business for members, a handy storage for when days are warm. Lucky hunters must sign in at the ranch house and pay $5 for every 24 hours used. Deer for the cooler have to be field dressed and registered with a CCR kill tag.

Though you won’t be able to visit the Deery Queen because it’s off-season, and you can’t really get to a Star-Bucks around here, you can often see the residential deer still hanging around the cabins. We’re trying to chase the bucks out back, but unless they’re trying to doe off some steam by chasing a pretty tail, they’d much rather eat your carrots. Peace and happiness!

10/30/2025

November winds are starting and oak leaves are leaving their tree houses. Acorns are everywhere. Linemen are trimming trees from around the lines at the ranch. Temperatures are still in the near 50’s during the day, and everyone set their clocks back as of November 2. Now family members have to wait a little longer for dinnertime, including the pets.

Hunters with harvests since the last report include Ryan Greenby, Dave Weber, Anna Geister, and Ted Piechota with does on CCR. Jeremy Parker, Matt Rick, and Phil Fisher all got 8-point trophies on the Ranch. Chad Nuttell shot a 7-point on state land, and Jordan Schulz came in with a 6-point from the Ranch.

Only a short time now until Michigan’s very own holiday of “opening day” on November 15 for gun season. Local high schools declare a day off, and hunters will vie for space. Most have blinds already in place, so a reminder to be considerate of areas already claimed. Cameras that detect wildlife traffic also detect those who are disrespectful, so remember the “Golden Rule” when hunting.

Hunters and members should remember that the CCR Foundation Raffle is going on until the fundraising Hunters’ Roundup on November 14. The prizes are huge, and only 1,500 tickets are sold for a chance to win a first prize of a $3600 e-bike, trailer, and $100 gift certificate from Jay’s Sporting Goods. A second prize is a fishing kayak and $100 gift certificate, with the third prize of a $250 gift certificate from Jay’s. Tickets are $20. Purchase them at the Ranch House or through Ray Karbon at 313-920-2941.

Donations to the Ladies Auxiliary “Holiday Help with Hygiene” and the Food Pantry box are being taken in the tubs at the Ranch House entry-way. This is one of the many ways CCR makes a difference in the community. The Auxiliary also donates to scholarships, the Elk Country Animal Shelter, the Caring Place, Atlanta Baby Basket, Atlanta Little League, the “Just in Case” high school program, the Onaway Food Bank, Hillman Fire Department, and the Tri Township Fire Department.

Recently, the Auxiliary’s donation to the Hunter Safety program helped train future hunters in a program that has been reviewed as the best in the county. Members of the Ladies Auxiliary also recently planted more daffodil bulbs around the common areas of the Ranch for springtime joy. Meetings for Ladies Auxiliary are on hiatus until the spring; after that they occur once a month on the first Wednesday of the month.

So, Michigan’s four seasons got together for a conference, and Winter boasted, “You can build snowmen and go snowmobiling in the beautiful winter!” Spring laughed, “Sure, but in spring everything is fresh and new and full of flowers!” Summer shone: “My season has ice cream, nice warm weather, and beach fun! What do you have to offer, Autumn?”

Autumn – (leaves). Peace and happiness to you!

10/23/2025

Peak season is ending, as rain and wind have done their best to make leaves really “fall.” Members who have taken the trouble to blow or rake up leaves wake up mornings to a fresh “fall.” Why should we rake in this never-ending story of leaves everywhere?

Getting leaves off grass will help sun and air reach your yard for future growth. It will also prevent mold and fungus, and ticks. Ticks like to hibernate in wet, dark compost environments. Do not burn leaves, which is forbidden on the ranch. Raking the leaves around trees can protect their roots, and blowing them to the perimeter allows leaf habitat to benefit other hibernating species, like honey bees.

The lake habitat has not frozen yet, and we still have many days of sunshine left to paddle. But if you have a kayak, rowboat, or paddleboat, they must be removed by November 15 from common areas. Some mornings are colder than the water temperature, as evidenced by the hovering fog.

Deer kill is still ongoing for archers out back and in culling areas. Since last report, Gus Skoutelas and Fred George both bagged 2-1/2 year-old does. Jamil Mansour harvested an 8-point buck from Clare County. Jason Fannon and Connor Schaible also brought in 8-point trophies. Connor had the help of his father, grandfather, and uncles bringing in his buck. Connor then showed up at the Trunk or Treat as a bow hunter in a tree stand and took a medal there! Well, done CCR son!

Speaking of the Trunk or Treat, everyone had a fun night with decorated trunks and plenty of costumed kids! A “Frozen”-themed trunk took a trophy, complete with a snow-suds blowing machine. Another trophy winner was the pirate ship, making kids walk the plank over shark-infested waters in order to get their treats. Third winner was a “Tommy Boy” car, complete with a buck in the back seat. Thirteen costumed kids took medals, from a Detroit Lions "lion" to a baby hummingbird. The Banana kid even did a banana split.

Actually, before all of that, we had the highly competitive Chili Cook-off. Crowds of people came to taste the wares of 10 chefs. The rain had halted for the day, and the sun was shining as tasters went around the tent and voted. First place went to Tim Herremans for his Everything Chili, second place went to Gary Wruble for his and his daughter’s Meaty Chili, and third place went to Rhonda Wetherington for the Buffalo Bourbon Chili.

The Ranch House Grille will remain open on Friday evenings, Saturday all day, and Sunday for brunch. However, we will not be serving Thanksgiving dinner this year, so grab someone to share a meal with and get ready for some Lions football!

If you head to the sports store, though, to get a football for the family tag game, make sure it’s already pumped up, or they will charge you for inflation. Peace and happiness!

10/16/2025

Mid-October brings cooler temperatures up north, but we are still not freezing at Canada Creek Ranch. Rain is forecasted, which will probably take some color off the trees. Maples have mostly reached peak here; aspen and oak are still turning. Acorns can be heard rolling off rooftops and pinging in the woods.

Successful bow hunters since last report include does harvested by Jack Schaible, Rick Card, Marc McLennan, and Jon Dolbee. Gil Olds came in with a 4-1/2 year old, 8-point buck. All were recovered on CCR property. Congratulations, hunters!

The Ladies Auxiliary recently held the Harvest Dinner, which featured Italian dishes and desserts. The buffet was well-received, and the event included raffles and auctions. It’s one of the last events before snowbirds take off for warmer weather.

In order to trim the remaining 2025 budget, the Ranch House Grille will adjust hours to only Friday dinner, Saturday all day, and Sunday brunch. Also the decision has been made to not have the Thanksgiving Dinner. Though many patrons considered it delicious and convenient for a family/friends gathering, it has not supported itself financially. So make a turkey, invite a few friends, and watch the Lions at 1:00 pm for the holiday.

Another change is our “green box” marshal. Russ Clark has been our stalwart attendee for many years. He says he is sad to retire, after creating so many memories and treating everyone’s dog to biscuits. He says thank you for all the coffee, cocoa, and other goodies, and he hopes members will come visit him at home – bring your doggies for a treat there! However, he is not taking any more trash in his truck! We will miss you, Russ.

Accordingly, Harold Braun, a member and former maintenance employee at the Ranch, is taking over at the green box. Be sure to say hello when you see him! Recently hours had been changed to just Wednesdays and Sundays, from 11:00 am to 2:00 p.m.

CCR Book Club met October 14 to discuss The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. Many topics were discussed: midwifery, women's role in the 1700s, family relationships, and poetic justice. It was a lively book club, and members rated the book a 4.5 out of 5. The First Witch of Boston by Andrea Catalano was selected for next month. This novel is also a historical fiction surrounding the true story of Margaret Jones, the first woman to be found guilty of witchcraft in Massachusetts. She, in fact, was a "healer" with a child on the way. Reviews are that it is a gripping, intimate novel. Book club will meet again on Tuesday, November 11, at 7 p.m. in the boardroom. You are welcome to join us there or by Zoom!

Witches often stick together as broom-mates, but if you want to make one scratch, take off her w. That might make her nervous though, causing her to t-witch instead. At any rate, if you want to know more about witches, just visit wicca-pedia. Peace and happiness!

Rhonda's Report

12/11/2025

12/05/2025

11/26/2025

11/21/2025

11/13/2025

11/06/2025

10/30/2025

10/23/2025

10/16/2025

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