Staff Post by Paul Fikse

Barns serve numerous functions and their design often reflects their intended use. Whether used to store agricultural produce, livestock or equipment - a good barn comes in handy.

The historic two-barn combination barn shown below 150 foot in length and was the main building for a dairy creamery business.

Image provided by the Eaton Rapids Area Historical Society

This image shows that the most important part of a barn is the roof.


One of the finest example of architecturally spectacular barns is right here in Michigan. Many of you may have seen this barn near Sleeping Bear Dunes:

photo of the D.H. Day Barn - Glen Harbor, MI

by John H. Bowman

I’ve had an appreciation for barns, but as a horse owner and rider, I have a special appreciation of a good horse barn. The image below is one of the barns at the Michigan State facility. In spring they hold a horse expo.

This illustration once again exhibits the talents of Visbeen Associates, Inc. and casts a wonderful vision of an elegant equestrian facility.

The image below is of our family on a recent trail ride. The month of October is my favorite - as the cooler temperatures and autumn colors provide the backdrop for some wonder rides and time with my wife and children.

Although not about barns in particular - the quote below is one of my favorites on a somewhat related subject.

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Vote for Paul Fikse!

Our Vice President, Paul Fikse, is currently running for Byron Center Public School Board in the upcoming election on May 3, 2011. Paul is involved in the community through his three children currently attending Byron Center schools. You may have seen him at one of many equestrian, swimming, volleyball, baseball and other sporting events that he has been involved with and attended over the years. Fikse has most recently added participation in the Watch Dog Dads program to his contribution to the school district. According to Fikse, "it is undeniable how important the education of our children is. The knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom and in extra curricular activities will serve each student in developing the framework for the rest of their life. This is noteworthy both as a parent and for the community at large." He has always been a big proponent for public education after growing up in a large school district in the suburbs of Chicago. Fikse says, "I've always worked towards excellence, and given the opportunity to join the school board, I will work with that same goal in mind while also being a positive influence on the education system in Byron Center." Vote for Paul Fikse on May 3, 2011!

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