Author

Rita MacDonald

Rita MacDonald is a U.S. Army Veteran and a full-time Oncology RN who attributes Irish and Scottish heritage to her love of storytelling. She is "Mum" to two sons, “Gummy” to her six grandchildren, loves talking with anyone who will engage in a conversation, and “eats life with a shovel!” In addition to her work with The Keel, Rita is a past contributor for the Thumbprint News, an author of three books, and writes a blog at kitchentabledevotions.com.

Rita MacDonald's Latest Articles

A bartender at Renaissance Man Distillery & Cocktail Lounge makes a Guava Daiquiri.
Port Huron’s first whiskey distillery opens at Wrigley Hall

Renaissance Man Distillery & Cocktail Lounge celebrated its grand opening last month at Wrigley Hall, offering unique, flavorful products and a tasting room that will transport you to a bygone era.

Members of the Lilly family pose for a photo outside of the newly-opened Lexington's LillyPad.
Blue Water Area couple opens Lexington’s LillyPad, bringing new life to neglected motel

After more than a decade of lying vacant, a motel in Lexington has reopened for business. Thanks to the efforts of a Blue Water Area couple who are working to revitalize the property, Lexington’s LillyPad offers a new option for accommodation in the coastal community.

Foxfire Fixin’s: Come often. Sit deep. You’re one of the folks.

Marine City restaurant Foxfire Fixin’s offers a unique dining experience in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Oakland University's equestrian team poses for a photo.
Ira Township is home to state-of-the-art equestrian center on Lake St. Clair

Fox Pointe Equestrian Center’s Aimee Latsch shares a glimpse into the high-quality facilities and competitive training programs offered by the center.

New restaurant Mama’s Eatery and Ice Cream Shop opens in downtown Lexington

Formerly the Lighthouse Creamery, the newly-opened Mama’s Eatery is a dream come true for mother-daughter duo Taryn Strausser and Debbie Paradoski.

Former cafe owner turns 18-acre land into nonprofit farm and community center

Kathy Cox, former owner of a New Baltimore cafe, bought land in Casco Township to grow her own produce but discovered its potential for more, establishing a nonprofit community center offering sustainable organic produce and hands-on education.

Port Huron resident breathes new life into old furniture, Damaged Goods Refurbished

Drawing on her background in art and design, local business owner Debbie Dare digs into creative projects restoring and reimagining furniture.

Kala Sheridan, owner of Homemade Pies by Kala.
Homemade Pies by Kala transforms traditional sweet treats into edible works of art

A fresh, homemade pie made for her mother’s birthday led one Croswell resident to launch her own business creating intricate, one-of-a-kind pieces of edible art.

The Gathering: Local entrepreneur’s new business offers a unique dining experience

Owner and local entrepreneurial chef, Calah Wesley, is expanding her business which offers a one-of-a-kind, personal chef dining experience complete with seasonally-sourced ingredients.

Dirty Little Pours: Lexington couple discovers hidden talent for epoxy creations

Lexington residents and "Do-It-Yourself-Duo" say pandemic lockdown led them to discover new talents for epoxy art, leading to the creation of their new business.

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