As someone who has three listings on Airbnb, I would like to clarify your recent article regarding vacation homes. In the article, you quote a person from Lansing who states that 40% of this market sits empty for six to nine months a year. This is not the case. Although tourism is growing in Alpena and our model does accommodate vacationers, these rentals also provide temporary housing for transient workers, especially healthcare providers. This past winter, I housed a traveling nurse, a PT intern and a new doctor house hunting. This past week, I took numerous reservations for military families who want to be off base and have some family time, prior to deployment. I have housed temporary workers for many other local businesses as well. Short term rentals are in high demand and I am happy to be able to help fill that void.

TAMY McANSH

Alpena