Celebrity Guests at Michigan B&B

Celebrities travel to Michigan all of the time. But, how often do they come to Jonesville to stay at the Munro House B&B? Over the years, we have had the pleasure to serve a few celebrity guests out of all of the famous people in the world of news, sports, radio, television, politics, and music. Today was one of those days.

I have only lived in Michigan for 12 years. In that time, I have become aware of many Michigan celebrities that were formerly unknown to a guy from Wisconsin, but were synonymous with Michigan culture. So when a guest at our house, who is a lifelong resident of Michigan, recognized a famous person at our communal breakfast table, it was a moment of fandemonium followed by the realization that they are really just nice people who happened to share breakfast at my house.

I am sure that the celebrity was more interested in having a pleasant getaway than talking about themselves, so the conversation moved on from their personal experiences to the current situation of their industry to life in general. We enjoyed their company and sent them on their way.

So if you happened to be shopping at the antique malls in Allen today and thought that one of the other shoppers seemed familiar. Yeah, that was the person you thought it was, and it was a good thing that you didn't make a scene.

Name withheld to protect privacy.



Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Emergency Dentist in Hillsdale

I was out shopping when I felt something unusual in my mouth. I had fresh fruit for breakfast and thought I might have a raspberry seed stuck in my teeth. I worked it out with my tongue and found that it was bigger than a raspberry seed. I spat it into my hand and discovered that it was a piece of a tooth. Uh-oh! Time for an unscheduled trip to the dentist.

I called my dentist in Hillsdale, MI--Dr. Rob Miller--their office told me to come right over and they would work me into their schedule. I was seen almost immediately and was told that it was in fact a piece of my tooth and was a simple fix. Perfect timing on my part led to the repair of the chipped tooth with virtually no wait time.  Twenty minutes later, the tooth was repaired and I was on my way home.

A big city dentist might have made me wait for days or weeks for an appointment to repair the chipped tooth. Here in Hillsdale County, the whole process from calling, to arriving, to having the work done, and returning home all happened in about an hour. That's just another of many reasons why I think that life is good in Jonesville.

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Grilling Kebabs

Grilling out is fun and can be a little more interesting when it is taken beyond hamburgers and hot dogs. We grilled some kebabs that were very tasty. We started with a nice piece of steak and followed that with huge mushrooms, onion petals, tomatoes and pineapple, plus green and red peppers. We double foiled them to prevent premature charring and sticking to the grill. After a few minutes we enjoyed fresh fruit and vegetables with a nice hunk of meat. It was delicious. Bed and Breakfast aren't the only things we do well at the Munro House!

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

About Repairing a Water Damaged Ceiling

The shower leaked in one of our 2nd floor bathrooms--but it didn't leak into the tub or onto the floor, it leaked into the wall, so there was never a pool of water to let us know that something was wrong. The parlor ceiling below is 40'X20' and made of plaster, so the water took a long time to soak through. Once it did, the damage became quickly evident.

First, I called Ryan and Bradshaw Plumbing and Heating--they are the local guys who know the inner workings of this big old house best. Then I called the Wall Doctors by Mark Goldsmith--they do all of our paint and wallpaper jobs and I wanted to be sure we could be fit into their busy schedule. Finally, I notified Thompson-Roberts--my insurance agency--they recommended Serv-Pro of Branch County to remove the water damage.

Everyone sprang into action and within a day I had the leak identified and repaired; I had the ceiling opened, damage controlled, and dryers running; plus, I got a firm time-table for the drying process so the painters could plan to repair the hole and repaint it without disrupting my business too much.

Everything was done in a prompt, professional, and courteous manner for all tasks performed and I am satisfied with the results. The work was done in a way to minimize the discomfort of the project. We are back up and running like nothing ever happened. Our thanks go out to the fine local companies who did everything they were supposed to do quickly and efficiently.

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"



Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Ferry Across Lake Michigan

Dreading the drive through Chicago on 4th of July weekend, we decided to take the car ferry across Lake Michigan to attend our family's summer picnic. We removed the big city from the equation because that trip is a wild card on any weekend and a holiday could make it double trouble. With no traffic, Chicago can be traversed in about 45 minutes. Our record in futility is 3+ hours from Gary Indiana to O'Hare Airport. That record was set on a previous 4th of July weekend and we were not looking forward to challenging it.

We took the early morning boat from Ludington Michigan to Manitowoc Wisconsin. We spent the previous night in town and were up and ready to go with plenty of time to spare. This particular trip had a lot of motorcycles boarding for the holiday weekend. A calm day on Lake Michigan made for a very pleasurable 3 hour ride. We were prepared to keep ourselves occupied with dominoes and cards. The time went fast, the trip was easy, and our co-passengers were nice. We were surprised to see a big family of Amish on the boat. They seemed to be having a good time, too.

We spent 2 days in Wisconsin and took the midnight boat back to Michigan. We were looking forward to enjoying a state room where we could nap for most of the trip. We both were so exhausted that we fell asleep before the boat left the dock and were awakened by the crew banging on doors to wake everybody up just before reaching the Michigan shore.

The S.S.Badger car ferry was more expensive than driving the distance. However, we didn't have to pay tolls, we didn't have to buy as much gas, and we didn't get stuck in traffic. We did have 2 nice boat rides, we had a stress free driving experience, and we saved a night's lodging in a hotel. For us, this trip was a win-win and well worth the fare in both directions.

Upon departing the Badger, we noticed that the boat is actually part of U.S. Highway 10--amusing, funny, and true! We will take the Badger again and look forward to another enjoyable experience on Lake Michigan.

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Kidde Toy and Brush Factory in Jonesville Could Be Rennovated

The old Kidde Toy & Brush Factory in Jonesville has been vacant for about 50 years. It is the tallest building in Jonesville but has been an eyesore for a long time. A company has a plan to turn it into apartments for seniors and small families. A series of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments along with a senior activities area should make this project a welcome addition to the village.

A study has shown that there is a need for senior housing in Hillsdale County. A private group is willing to invest millions of dollars into the project to bring this great old building up to code and put it to good use for the first time in decades.

The plan calls for the green metal addition to be torn down. A parking lot with green space will occupy that area with sufficient stalls for all tenants. The apartments will include new windows, modern amenities, and energy efficient features.

This building is across the street and down the block from the Munro House B&B on South Street and behind Saucy Dog Barbeque on West Street. It would be a definite improvement to the neighborhood and may also present opportunities for entrepreneurs and existing businesses to capitalize on many new downtown residents.

There are still obstacles in the way before this project is approved. My hope is that this will be a big step towards progress in this small town in Michigan.

 

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Downtown Hillsdale Burgers Beer Boreaux & Bargains

Friday July 15 will be a fun night out in Hillsdale Michigan from 5-8 p.m. Downtown merchants have joined forces to host an event featuring Burgers, Beer, Bordeaux, and Bargains. Broad Street Market, Coneys & Swirls, Here's to You Pub & Grub, and the Hunt Club are competing for the title. Burgers are a buck a bite, so 4 bucks will get you a taste of Hillsdale Gourmet burgers.The best gourmet burger contest winner will be announced at 7:30 at Toasted Mud. Downtown eateries are vying for your votes.

Additionally, sidewalk sales will be going on throughout downtown Hillsdale along with beer tasting at Broad Street Market and wine tasting from David's Dolce Vita. Live outdoor music at 4 locations will be played for your enjoyment.

Guests of the Munro House B&B in Jonesville will get a recommendation to join in the festivities just 10 minutes away.

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Girls Night Out Part 4-Free Day

Sylvia and her lady friends had 3 special events planned at the Munro House B&B in Jonesville. A Murder Mystery, a Spa Day, and a Chef Night Cooking Party. The final event was a free day of shopping at nearby Jackson Crossing Mall then dinner in the private dining room at Olivia's Chop House in downtown Jonesville.

The ladies had made the most of their girlfriend getaway weekend. They spent a lot of their time in our house or on our private patio talking and laughing and participating in our interactive parties. We could tell that they were all cut from the same mold and enjoyed each others company, immensely.

Jackson Crossing Mall is about 30 minutes away and was an easy day trip for these women. Upon their return, I noticed that most of their shopping bags came from T.J. Maxx. Their trip to the mall was very successful. Some of the ladies also found deals at Kohl's, Bed Bath and Beyond, and others.


They got all dressed up and enjoyed a fine dining experience at Olivia's Chop House. It is an easy 2 block walk from the Munro House, but they elected to drive rather than walk in their dresses and heels. They did their best to eat all of the generous portions offered at Olivia's but still had to commandeer space in our guest refrigerator for left-overs and dessert that was too good to pass up--mmmm, creme broule.

We love it when our guests come here and make themselves at home while enjoying each others' company. We try to make our house a home away from home for all of our guests. These women were particularly good at it and are welcome back any time.


Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Girls Night Out Part 3-Cooking Party

Sylvia and her girlfriends had a murder mystery dinner and a spa day to begin their women's weekend getaway in Southern Michigan. Now it was time for the original Chef Night Cooking Party--a regular event we have been hosting for years. This is not a class, it is a party where teams of 2 work together to do their part in creating a feast. On this day, we created 11 dishes for all participants to enjoy--3 appetizers, 1 soup, 1 salad, 2 entrees with 2 side dishes, and 2 desserts.

Modern and classic music were played in the prep areas while a tight kitchen added to the fun. Everything but the salad needed to be cooked, but with just a standard 4 burner stove to cook all this food, some negotiating was in order. With everyone being an experienced cook, instructions were kept to a minimum while the hosts were on-hand to locate particular utensils and equipment. Because not all stoves or microwaves are created equal, there was a fair amount of help required to cook in the convection oven or to program the microwave.

The first appetizer came out in the first hour, while additional appetizers followed. The actual meal was served 3 hours after the start of the event. We ate like royalty from an uncommon menu. Bruschetta, seafood nachos, and cheddar bay biscuits are favorite starters that were well-received. Cream of asparagus soup and Greek salad comprised the next 2 courses. Chicken Lombardy and Shrimp Parmesan were flanked by lentil/rice pilaf and carrots Marsala. We finished the evening with fresh raspberry cobbler and Lori's Secret Recipe Crepes.

We went 11 for 11 with successful menu choices and chef expertise. Everything was great--but the bruschetta, chicken, and crepes were outstanding.

Many people do not cook from scratch anymore. Prepared foods are very common, very good, and very quick to prepare. Going "old school" with nothing prepackaged was a nice change. Cooking with a partner was another great experience that is becoming a forgotten art. We encourage camaraderie, patience, and new experiences at the Munro House. Interaction of diverse personalities while completing a common task is a fun way to have a hands-on, fun-time experience in our kitchen.

Our complete menu is titled "General Sylvia 11" and is online at food.com.


Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Girls Night Out Part 2 - The Spa Day

Sylvia and her girls had finished a murder mystery dinner party on Day One. Breakfast was served the following morning, and the Munro House Spa Day was about to begin. The ladies gathered for a variety of in-house services in the onsite spa at our Southern Michigan B&B. We scheduled some of everything we offer--manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, body wraps, and waxing. The services were provided by our staff of trained cosmetologists and masseuses.

A combination of good spirits and fun-loving women led to the start of another great day with these wonderful ladies.

Mike Venturini

Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Girls NIght Out Part 1-The Naughty Murder Mystery Dinner

Sylvia plans a mystery trip for a girls getaway every year. She is the senior member of the troupe and makes all the arrangements. The rest of the women arrive without a clue of what is in store for them. When Sylvia makes a plan, people are drawn to her because with her vivacious attitude, there will be fun! Her style is contagious. We were infected when they first stepped foot into the Munro House, and we may never be the same.

What we know is that these ladies immediately became family, and we want to party with them. Their ages spanned several decades, but from their interaction, we knew they were all kindred spirits.

Day one was a private Murder Mystery Dinner. Eight ladies were suspects but only one of them was the murderess. They chose our naughty murder mystery for women only and transformed themselves from regular fun-loving gals to pole dancers, biker babes, and phone sex operators. All of this was done while being served a 5 course meal.

We can tell a quality murder mystery dinner by the amount of laughter coming out of the dining room. One of the ladies told us her ribs still hurt the next day from all of the laughing during dinner the night before--yeah, we were a very good fit for this group of women.

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"
Munro House Bed and Breakfast

Olivia's Chop House Serves Big Burgers, Too

Olivia's Chop House in downtown Jonesville has added BIG burgers to its menu. They are calling it $6 Burger Mania. They are not your typical burgers. Tonight we shared the Maui and the Butler. The Maui had a slice of pineapple and a fiery citrus salsa--sweet and spicy is a nice combination. The Butler had bacon and provolone--my wife prefers hers not-so-exotic.

I am sure that these new menu items have something to do with the road construction which is limiting access to all businesses on Chicago Street. We like to support the local economy and help out whenever we can. What goes around comes around, you know.

The Munro House B&B is an easy 2 block walk away, so parking will not be an issue for our guests!

Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
"Life is good in Jonesville"

Munro House Bed and Breakfast