Traverse City Cherry Mojitos

1. Pit cherries with a cherry pitter, or slice them in half to remove pits.
2. Place cherries, mint leaves and sugar in the bottom of a tall beverage glass.
3. Crush the cherry mixture with a wooden muddler, or with the back of a spoon.
4. Fill the glass with ice.
5. Pour rum and sparkling water (or lemon-lime soda) over the ice. Squeeze the lime wedge over it all and then drop the lime wedge into the glass.
6. Stir to combine. Garnish with additional mint and cherries if desired.