Grand rising, West Michigan. With more winter storms in the forecast, we can appreciate the quiet stillness that comes with a fresh layer of snow covering the world outside. Also, happy early Valentine’s Day to all you lovebirds out there! 😍 

In today’s Lakeshore Current:

• Timberwolves 🐺 

• The Piano Dr 🎹 

• Ice Fest 🧊 

Let’s dive in

— Courtland Stansberry

THE DIGEST

Timberwolves In Lower Peninsula

State wildlife officials are once again searching for gray wolves in Lower Michigan from February 17 to March 10. Scientists from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are investigating whether a breeding population has expanded south from the Upper Peninsula, despite the barrier posed by the Straits of Mackinac. Brian Roell, a DNR carnivore specialist, noted that some areas in the northern Lower Peninsula could support a small wolf population. Residents are encouraged to report any sightings, photographs, or signs of wolves to aid the survey, which has faced challenges due to limited recent records in the region. The last survey in 2019 generated nearly 100 reports, mostly unverified, but some credible evidence emerged from Kalkaska and Montmorency counties. Collaborative efforts include partnerships with various tribal and federal agencies. Information can be submitted through the DNR's observation system or by contacting the Grayling office directly.

Ice Sailing Is Back

The biting cold wind lashed against Ray Dotzlaf's face as he savored his first ice sailing experience at just nine years old. Riding as a passenger in Nathaniel Hayward's restored 1938 ice sailing boat, Ray raced across Muskegon Lake, reaching speeds of 20 to 30 mph. "You just have to be really brave to do it," he said, noting that bravery grows once you’re in the boat. After returning the next day for another exhilarating ride, he was hooked

On February 7, 2025, the West Michigan Ice Yacht Club hosted a day of ice sailing, taking advantage of the thick, solid ice. Steve Schiller, a seasoned sailor, explained that ideal conditions occur with 4 to 6 inches of ice, and this year’s frigid weather has kept the ice firm. For the Dotzlaf family, winter sports have become a passion, with Lillian emphasizing the importance of instilling confidence in their children through outdoor adventures.

Ice Fest In The U.P.

MUNISING, MI -- Adventure awaits at the Michigan Ice Fest, where thrill seekers of all skill levels are invited to climb frozen waterfalls in the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Celebrating its 30th year, the festival kicks off on February 12 and promises a weekend filled with activities, including ice climbing classes for beginners and advanced climbers, guided treasure hunts, and hiking challenges. Spectators can enjoy watching climbers while exploring the festival’s offerings, including educational presentations by professional climbers sharing global travel stories. Evening festivities include after parties at local bars, with a special outdoor party on Maple Street and a dance party at Galley Coffee Company. For schedules, maps, and guides, visit the festival website. Join the excitement and embrace the winter wilderness!

Local Business

The Piano Doctor

Josiah "the Piano Doctor" Jackson, with over 1 million followers on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, has gained fame for restoring old pianos to their former glory. Initially aspiring to be a professional pianist, he shifted his focus to piano tuning after struggling with stage fright. At just 17, he founded his business, drawing inspiration from a local technician.

Operating from his home in Fruitport, Michigan, he offers a range of services, including tuning and deep cleaning. With plans to expand his business and create a network of technicians, Jackson envisions traveling to unique locations to tune pianos for his YouTube audience. For appointments, visit thepianodoctor.pro or call 231-670-5383.

Joann Fabrics Closing Over 530 Locations

Joann Fabrics and Crafts is closing 33 of its 40 Michigan stores, including seven in West Michigan, following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. The closures affect about 530 of the chain's 800-plus locations. The West Michigan stores scheduled to close include locations in Battle Creek, Benton Harbor, Big Rapids, Grandville, Holland, Portage, and Norton Shores. Some stores, such as those in Comstock Park and Grand Rapids, will remain open. A Joann spokesperson expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging its significant impact on team members and local communities.

SPONSORED BY SIMULATOR CONSULTANTS

Looking to improve your golf game or hosting an event?

Based in Grand Haven, Michigan, Simulator Consultants is a locally owned and operated, customer-focused company that provides high-quality golf simulator installations and mobile event rentals. Our installations cover commercial and residential settings, simulator equipment sales, custom designing, and consulting services to accommodate virtually all spaces. Additionally, Simulator Consultants offers mobile golf simulator rentals for a wide range of events, including parties, weddings, corporate events, marketing events, trade shows, expos, and other gatherings both big and small. We take great pride in the personalized experience our team provides to each and every customer.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN

MUSKEGON

Thursday - Wonderland Distillery - Trivia Night 7pm

Hot Rod Harley-Davidson - Indoor Cornhole 6:30-9pm

Friday - Lotus Room - Live Blues with Vincent Hayes & The Raw Deal 8:30pm

Bonfire & Brews Night at Muskegon Luge 5-8pm

Saturday - Winter Farmers Market 9am-2pm

White Lake Winter Wanderland 2025 11am-7pm

Trinity Health Arena - Muskegon Risers vs. Minnesota 7pm

Bonfire & Brews Night at Muskegon Luge 5-8pm

Sunday - Pigeon Hill - Euchre Sundays 2pm

Monday - Pigeon Hill - Holiday Trivia Night 7pm

GRAND HAVEN

Thursday- Grand Armory Live Music 6:30pm

Lucy’s Ladies Night

Friday- Odd Side Live Music 8pm

Saturday- Grand Armory Live Music

St. Mary’s Gym- Winter Wonderland Gala Night 6-11pm

MI Free Fishing Weekend (No License Required)

Sunday - MI Free Fishing Weekend (No License Required)

Odd Side Ales - The Sunday Shakedown 5-7:30pm

Family Night at The Unicorn 5-10pm

Monday - Odd side - Pub Trivia Night

HOLLAND

Thursday - Curragh Irish Pub - Trivia Night 8pm

Park Theatre - Free Show Jordan Garnett Comedy 'Laughing in Love!' 7:30pm

Friday - Holland Museum - Parent’s Night Out 6:30-9:30pm

Saturday - Holland Farmers Market 9am-1pm

Downtown Holland - Holland on Ice 10am-7pm

Park Theatre - OLD SCHOOL BASH 80s, 90s and 00's Dance Party 8pm

Sunday - New Holland Brewing - Trivia Night 6pm

Monday - Curragh Irish Pub - Trivia Night 8pm

WEATHER

Thursday

27 🌡️ 13 | 🌨️ |

Friday

25 🌡️ 22 | ☁️ |

Saturday

33🌡️ 23 | 🌨️ |

Sunday

26 🌡️ 10 | 🌨️ |

Monday

14 🌡️ 10 | 🌨️ |

LIVE MUSIC

Thursday

Grand Armory I Roger Gonda I 6:30pm

Sandy Point I Justin Wierenga I 6pm

Friday

Grand Armory I Gina & Jordan I 6:30pm

Oddside I Mark Lavengood I 8pm

Lucy’s I Geoff & Ashley I 6pm

Itty Bitty Bar I I 9pm

Wicks Park Bar & Grille I Acoustic Shenanigans I 7pm

Saturday

Grand Armory I Park Road Revival I 6:30pm

Lucy’s I Nina Sofia I 6pm

Itty Bitty Bar I Electric Flower Co I 9pm

Wicks Park Bar & Grille I JP & The Energy I 7pm

Sunday

Odd side Ales I Scott Pellegrom I 5pm

Sandy Point I Rory McCallan I 5pm

SPORTS

PGA - The Genesis Invitational 13th-16th

THANKS!

Thanks for reading Lakeshore Current today. If you found something useful, please share with someone who is going sledding this weekend

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