News from Small Town USA
Notes from Michael Gilfix, the Author
The Goal
The goal of my Tawas News is to educate and amuse you about my home town, East Tawas, Michigan. It is to remind you that small towns still thrive in America, that they are sometimes struggling, often vibrant. It is based on my hometown weekly newspaper, personal memories, and occasional, very personal observations.
The Inspiration
The inspiration was Garrison Keillor’s “News from Lake Wobegon” on his NPR show, Prairie Home Companion. Lake Wobegon was fictional, quietly poignant and lol enjoyable.
Tawas is Not Fictional
Indeed, it is very real. It is similar to Lake Wobegon in many ways – the farmers, the pastors, the community where everybody knows everybody’s business.
The town of East Tawas is located on Lake Huron on the lower peninsula about 110 miles north of Flint, Michigan. The population is around 2,723. It hasn’t grown much from my childhood in the 50’s and 60’s. The adjacent town of Tawas City has a population of about 1,726. Why 2 separate towns? Don’t ask.
So, enjoy, and let me know what you think. Share it with friends and family. I am happy to add anyone to the mailing list, so send me names.
©2024 by Michael Gilfix, All Rights Reserved
©News From Small Town (Tawas) Middle America
Meet Your Author
Michael Gilfix is the author of "News from Small Town USA," a collection dedicated to celebrating the charm and character of small towns across America. Hailing from East Tawas, Michigan, Michael has always had a deep appreciation for the close-knit communities and unique stories that small towns offer. He aims to shine a light on these often-overlooked places by sharing news and events from his hometown.
Drawing inspiration from the Iosco County News-Herald, his home-town local newspaper, Michael brings to life the everyday happenings and heartfelt stories that define small-town living. His work reflects a passion for preserving and highlighting the rich cultural tapestry found in America's smaller communities, offering readers a window into the joys and challenges of small-town life. Through his writing, Michael Gilfix provides a voice to the stories that might otherwise go unnoticed, celebrating the resilience, warmth, and spirit of the people who call these towns home.
