Parrotts honored as entrepreneuers of the year

Entrepreneurs are independent-minded people who dare to follow their dreams, trust in their ability to succeed and have the strength of their own convictions to create something new. Mike and Denise Parrott exemplify this kind of pioneering spirit and that is a reason why they were honored by the BO$$Y Program of Presque Isle County with the 2011 Entrepreneur of the Year award at the chamber of commerce dinner on Feb. 12.

Back in the 1990s they were living in the Detroit area where Mike worked in the automotive industry. From out of the blue, or so it seemed, they were presented with the opportunity to open a sporting goods store in Onaway.

Ever since Mike was nine years old he had been coming up to the 80-acre family spread just outside Afton, which is where he developed a passion for hunting and fishing. It was always his father?s dream to move up to this area one day. In the summer of 1998 Mike and Denise were able to follow that dream when they opened the sporting goods store that is Parrott?s Outpost today.

Through hard work and perseverance the Parrotts have managed to make the business grow and thrive year after year. They employ two other folks from the Onaway area and have a few more help out during the busy times. The business features canoes, kayaks, footwear, fishing and bait supplies, camping items, guns, ammo and lots more hunting gear.

In addition, this husband and wife

team is always happy to offer advice to customers based on a wealth of experience. This combination of good sense and love of the outdoors has made a successful local business that has become part of the fabric of this community.

This is evident in the way both Mike and Denise give of themselves whenever asked. Through the business they have supported the Onaway Schools by donating items for physical education classes, for an ice fishing competition and by sponsoring ads for the Onaway High School yearbook. They also help sponsor programs like the Miss Onaway Pageant and a variety of other local events.

Mike serves on the board of the Onaway Community Federal Credit Union and also on the board of the Black Lake Sportsman?s Club. Denise has been a volunteer for the Michigan Medicare Medicaid Program, providing invaluable assistance to senior citizens who need help understanding their medical bills or finding the proper services for their needs.

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