Mackinac Island Blog

Grand Hotel Selected As Theme For Art Exhibition

2012-01-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy of Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
www.grandhotel.com

Mackinac State Historic Parks announces an Art Exhibition at The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum at the Indian Dormitory on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Artwork will be chosen by a panel of jurists and displayed to the public from May 11, 2012 until closing on October 7, 2012. From October 8 – October 31, 2012, the exhibition
will be open to tour groups during various dates.
Additionally, the panel of jurors will select a single Best of Show, second and third place, and three honorable mention awardees from the pieces displayed in the exhibition. Winners will be announced at the June 27, 2012 awards ceremony on Mackinac Island.

There will be a single Best of Show Award which will be chosen by the panel of jurors. The winner will receive The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum Gold Medal and a $5,000 cash prize. Their name will be on the list of annual Gold Medal winners, which is displayed at the museum. In addition, there will be second and third place cash prizes of $2,500 and $1,500 respectively and three (3) honorable mention awards with cash prizes of $500 each. All prizes are donated by the Mackinac Arts Council. Winners will be announced at the June 27, 2012 awards ceremony.

The subject of the artwork must conform to the theme, “Mackinac’s Grand Hotel.” All media of artwork will be accepted from living artists. This exhibition is open to all media, including photography, paint, sculpture and others. Artwork must have been completed within the last two years. Artists are encouraged to submit more than one artwork, but no more than three will be accepted. Due to space limitation, entries larger than 46” high or wide (measurements include frame) will not be accepted. Participation is open to all artists, nationally and internationally, who are 18 years of age or older.

PROCEDURES
Download the entry form here. Entries must be postmarked by April 2, 2012.

Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub Opens for New Year’s Eve Celebration

2011-12-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

Patrick Sinclair’sIrish Pub Opens for New Year’s Eve Celebration

Say goodbye to 2011 at Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub onMackinac Island. DJ Brevin spins the house on Friday and Saturday nights from10pm till the place closes. Champagne toast and party favors at midnight on the31^st of course! No reservations needed.

Chef Fearon’s FabulousNew Year’s Eve Dinner Menu

Surf & Turf: Grilled Tbone Steak topped with Five JumboShrimp, served with Truffle Oil Mashed Potatoes, Asparagus and a Wild MushroomDemi Glace. $28.99

Teriyaki Glazed Halibut: Grilled Fresh Halibut Steak with aTeriyaki Glaze, Sauteed Asparagus and Vegetable Pilaf. $25.99

Prime Top Sirloin: 12oz Filet Cut Top Sirloin with TruffleOil Mashed Potatoes, Asparagus and Wild Mushroom Demi Glace. $26.99

Southwestern Salmon Steak: Grilled Fresh Salmon with aPineapple Mango Chutney, Asparagus and Vegetable Pilaf. $22.99

Parmesan Crusted Whitefish: Broiled Great Lakes Whitefishwith Roasted Garlic, Capers and a Citrus Parmesan Crust with Grilled Asparagusand Truffle Oil Mashed Potatoes. $21.99

Smoked Rotisserie Chicken: One Half Smoked Chicken stuffedwith Wild Rice and drizzled with our Zesty Boursin Cheese Sauce. $20.99

Irish Toast
May the Lord keep you in his hand
and never close his fist too tight on you.
And may the face of every good news
and the back of every bad news
be toward us in the New Year.

Mustang Lounge Rocks the New Year on Mackinac Island

2011-12-19T12:17:00.000-08:00

Mustang Lounge Rocksthe New Year on Mackinac Island

The Mustang Lounge will feature Tricky Dicky and theSpoonmen on Friday and Saturday nights over the big transition to 2012. TheseIsland musicians play all the 80’s hits and throw in a few 70’s and 90’sclassics to keep you on your feet. No reservations are needed for the New Year’sEve dinner….casual, fun and delicious times are to be had if you Hang at the ‘Stang!

Buffet Menu $22.95 per person

(Reservations for parties of 10 or more suggested, beverages, Michigan sales tax and gratuity not included)

Soup & Salad
Potato Leek Chowder topped with Cheddar and Crumbled Bacon
House Chopped Salad: Romain with Tomato, Cucumber, Carrot, Croutons and CheddarJack Cheese

Main Course
Carving Station: Choice Prime Rib of Beef
Seafood Newburg: Seafood Mix with Chef’s Zesty Sauce
Texas Pork Chops: Served with a Pineapple Mango Chutney
Chicken Marsala: With a Wild Mushroom Cream Sauce

Accompaniments
Homemade Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Parmesan Penne Pasta Alfredo
Seasonal Steamed Vegetables

Dessert
Assorted Cakes including the Mustang’s famous Carrot Cake and Cheesecake

Champagne and party favors at Midnight!

Mustang online: www.mustangonmackinac.com

A Mackinac Island New Year’s Eve at Cawthorne’s Village Inn

2011-12-19T10:29:00.000-08:00

A MackinacIsland New Year’s Eve at Cawthorne’s Village Inn
On New Year’s Eve, Cawthorne's Village Inn will be celebrating in grand style.A special dinner menu willbe served, along with hayrides at 1:00 and 3:00 pm. Carriage or sleigh rides(snow permitting) will be $20 per person. Includes complimentary hot chocolate,warm apple cider and coffee. Sign up at the Village Inn or call 906-847-3542.Space for each ride is limited to 20 people. Cawthorne's Village Inn isthe newest Grand Hotel Restaurant.

After dinner, Detroit party band, The Incredibles will take the stage. The band features Danny “Ivory Keys” on keyboards, vocals and guitar; Art Reed AKA “A.C.” on lead guitar and vocals; Jimmy Romeo on saxophone and vocals; Roger Noonan on bass and vocals; and Keven Golden on drums and vocals. Hailed as a party band, The Incredibles’ music is a mixture of classic rock, blues, Motown rock and soul.

Menu
Soups
Cup $4, Bowl $6
Seafood Bisque
Austrian Beef Goulash

Appetizer:
$10 Nova Scotia Smoked Salmon
$12 Shrimp Cocktail
$8 Proscuitto & Melon
$8 Avocado Chicken Egg Rolls

Salads:
$5 Caesar Salad
$4 Field Greens

Entrees:
$30 Lobster Tail and Beef Tournedos witha Portabella Mushroom Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Medley
$26 Roasted Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding, Twice Baked Potato and Vegetable
$15 Vegetarian Lasagna Napolean with Tapenade Crostini’s
$22 Almond Crusted Walleye with a Saffron Sauce, Basmati Rice and VegetableMedley
$18 Roasted Pork Loin with a Port Wine Reduction, Herb Fettucine and GardenVegetables

Desserts:

$6 Grand Pecan Ball
$6 Aunt Marge’s Cherry Pie Ala Mode

Downloadthe menu here:
http://www.grandhotel.com/pdfs/grand-hotel-cawthornes-christmas-menu.

Mackinac Island Christmas Bazaar

2011-11-29T09:35:00.001-08:00

Events
For places to stay, ferry schedule links and air travel to and fro, click on
http://www.mackinacisland.org/winter.

Thursday, December 1
Cawthorne's Village Inn Grand Opening
Cawthorne's Village Inn -- formerly the Village Inn, established in 1981 -- is Grand Hotel's newest casual dining option. Located on Hoban Street and just a block off Mackinac's Main Street, Cawthorne's will be open year round and feature a seasonally changing menu. Choices include the signature planked whitefish; numerous dishes using Michigan products; several organic dishes; Cawthorne's cherry pie (based on the recipe which won the 1947 national cherry pie baking contest); and a perennial favorite of hotel guests, the Grand Pecan Ball. To view the menu, please click here http://www.grandhotel.com/dining/cawthornes-village-inn

DJ Brevin
Our own homeboy DJ Brevin is well known all over Michigan, but especially on Mackinac Island. His club work is legendary-signature scratches, mixes and mashes and a dedicated crowd always makes for a great night out. He's done shows for Kid Rock, Tito Bacardi and Tom Izzo...but all of the name dropping aside, he rocks. Bring your dancin' shoes baby. Where? Cawthorne's Village Inn, 10pm till they throw us all out.

Friday, December 2
Tree Lighting
Every winter, the Dombroski family scores a killer tree for Main Street. This year is no different. Come join in the carols, hot chocolate and community spirit as we sing the lights on. Hayride for the kids. Where? Main Street in front of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, 5pm-ish

Saturday, December 3
Christmas Bazaar
Join in the fun, pick up Island arts and crafts, holiday wreaths, garlands and your Christmas Tree. Mackinac Island Community Hall

Peanut Butter & Jelly Band
Island musicians Paul Bedour, Mary McGuire, Tom Chambers and Jason St. Onge put on a special show of classic rock and original tunes at the legendary Mustang Lounge. This is a once a year gig and always great! Where? Mustang Lounge on Astor Street, 10pm till ??? No cover

Sunday, December 4
Christmas Bazaar
Join in the fun, pick up Island arts and crafts, holiday wreaths, garlands and your Christmas Tree. Mackinac Island Community Hall. Prime Rib dinner available.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Band
Island musicians Paul Bedour, Mary McGuire, Tom Chambers and Jason St. Onge put on a special show of classic rock and original tunes at the legendary Mustang Lounge. This is a once a year gig and always great! Where? Mustang Lounge on Astor Street, 10pm till ??? No cover

Monday, December 5
Christmas Bazaar
Live Auction, 50/50 Raffle and Snowmobile Drawing. Join in the fun, pick up Island arts and crafts, holiday wreaths, garlands and your Christmas Tree. Mackinac Island Community Hall.
Pick up tickets for all the raffles at the Bazaar or Doud's Market for the snowmobile.

more to come...

A Mackinac Island Winter

2011-10-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

"One Of The Top Ten Christmas Towns In America"
~HGTV

Mackinac Island is indeed open year ‘round. But, the hearty few that visit find a completely different Mackinac Island to experience, which is unlike the spring, summer or fall travel season. This makes it the perfect getaway for those who want a much slower pace-so that it is easier to get quiet, hang out and enjoy the company of friends, family and the great outdoors.

Events

December 3-5, 2011 Christmas Bazaar

Selected as one of HGTV’s Top Ten Christmas Towns,come kick off the Holiday season and pick up unique crafts at the town’s Christmas Bazaar.

December 31, 2011 New Year’s Eve

Join us for some great parties and outdoor splendor as everyone rings in the New Year. There are great meals, great music and no one has to worry about driving.

Mission Point Resort also opens up their Straits Lodge for winter revelers, call (906) 847-3312 for reservations or click on www.missionpoint.com

January 1, 2012 Baby New Year

Father Time hands the year off to Baby New Year on January 1st and we celebrate on Mackinac Island with football parties at the downtown pubs.

January 13-16, 2012 Martin Luther King Weekend

After King’s death, United States Representative John Conyers and United States Senator Edward Brooke introduced a bill in Congress to make King’s birthday a national holiday. President Ronald Reagan signed the bill and made his birthday a National Holiday. Take a peaceful weekend on the Island & reflect on his life as we all pay tribute to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

February 4-6, 2012 Mackinac Island Winter Festival

Join us at Great Turtle Park with a bonfire cook out, sledding, snow golf, archery, snow volleyball, broom hockey and help select the images at the school for the 2013 Mackinac Island Calendar.

February 10-12, 2012 Great Turtle Chili Cook Off

Hit the cross-country ski trails surrounded by snow falling on cedars then make your way to the event of the winter. The annual chili cook off takes place at Cawthorne's Village Inn Restaurant, where chefs and average Joe’s duke it out for the first, second and third place honors.

February 17-20, 2012 Washington’s Birthday Bash

President’s Day Weekend is a great time to hit the snowy trails for this extended weekend across America.

March 16-18, 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Snow, Fog, Ice, Water…makes for a typical March on Mackinac Island. Revelers are invited to play Snow Volleyball and the Annual Jamie Bynoe Street Hockey Tournament downtown. Oh...and there will be plenty of Irish Cheer!

Getting Here

Arnold Line Ferry (906) 847-3351
www.arnoldline.com from St. Ignace only until the Ice freezes in January

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry (906) 643-9440
www.sheplersferry.com from St. Ignace starting October 26, 2011 until the Ice freezes sometime in January

Great Lakes Air (906) 643-7165
www.greatlakesair.net from Mackinac County Airport, St. Ignace

Mackinac Island Taxi Service (906) 847-3323
There are generally one or two taxi drivers throughout the winter. We ask everyone to ensure that for any evening travel that you make your reservation by 3pm each day so the drivers can plan their dinners and evenings. For travel before 9am, it is also recommended that you make your taxi reservation the day prior by 3pm so the drivers can are able to tend to & hitch up their team earlier than expected on your behalf. Taxi rates begin at $4.75 per person downtown, for example from the ferry docks to Mission Point. There is a two fare minimum for airport runs or zones such as the Stonecliffe Area or Stoneybrooke (if there are two or more people in the taxi, then the two fare minimum is waived).

Sleeping Here

Bogan Lane Inn (906) 847-3439
www.boganlaneinn.com
Rooms from $85

Cottage Inn (906) 847-4000
www.cottageinnofmackinac.com Call for select dates

Harbor Place Studio Suites (906) 847-3347
www.harborplacestudiosuites.com Downtown
Rooms from $75

Mission Point Resort (800) 833.7711
www.missionpoint.comNew Year's Eve special: rooms from $129

Pontiac Lodge (906) 847-3364
www.pontiaclodge.com Downtown
Rooms from $85.00

Sunset Condos (906) 847-3407
www.sunsetcondos.com Up Island and Downtown
Rooms from $95

Eating Here

Mustang Lounge (906) 847-9916
www.mustangonmackinac.com

Village Inn (906) 847-3542
www.viofmackinac.com

Shopping

Doud’s Market (906) 847-3444
www.doudsmarket.com

Harrisonville General Store (906) 847-3553

Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Rentals

Cawthorne's Village Inn (906) 847-3542
www.viofmackinac.com

Things to Do

Mackinac Island State Park
Gorgeous hiking, cross country ski trails and snowshoeing

Mission Point Gym (906) 847-3312
$10 per day per person, monthly rates for Island residents

Mackinac Island Library (906) 847-3421
Books, Magazines, Internet, Wireless....fireplace.

Snowmobiles

There are no snowmobile rentals on Mackinac Island. The perimeter of the Island, downtown and roads to the airport permit snowmobiles. Most of Mackinac Island State Park is off limits to snowmobiles in order to keep the trails available to xx-skiers.

For those who do bring their own snowmobiles, you must register with the Mackinac Island Police Department (906) 847-3300 and at the Airport for Mackinac Island State Park (906) 847-, please contact Arnold Transit or Shepler's Ferry for pricing on transporting snowmobiles on the ferry boats. Last season, it was $39 per machine round trip.

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry Will Run A Winter Fast Ferry to Mackinac Island

2011-10-22T09:24:00.000-07:00

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry will be running a fast ferry out of St. Ignace from October 26, 2011 until the ice freezes in the straits of Mackinac (weather permitting).

For more information, call the St. Ignace office at (906) 643-9440 or click on www.sheplersferry.com

Winter Schedule:

October 26 through October 31

Depart St. Ignace Depart Mackinac Island

7:30AM 8:00 AM

9:00AM 9:30 AM

10:30AM 11:00 AM

12:30PM 1:00 PM

2:30PM 3:00 PM

4:30PM 5:00 PM

November 1 through November 27 (this schedule may change dueto weather, this is our fast ferry schedule and will be modified if we have anearly winter and have to run the Sacre Bleu)

Depart St. Ignace Depart Mackinac Island

7:30AM 8:00 AM

10:30AM 11:00 AM

1:30PM 2:00 PM

4:45PM 5:00 PM

*Thanksgiving Day departures are limited to one trip andthat trip will be 10:30 AM to the Island and 11:00 AM to St. Ignace

November 28 through Ice

Depart St. Ignace Depart Mackinac Island

7:30AM 8:15 AM

11:30AM 1:00 PM

4:15PM 5:00 PM

*Christmas and New Year’s Day departures are limited to onetrip and that trip will be 11:30 AM to the Island and 1:00 PM to St. Ignace

Ron Dufina Receives the First Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Lifetime Acheivement Award

2011-10-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

Image by Andrejka Photography

In honor of his lifetimecontributions to the travel and tourism industry in Mackinac Island, the Stateof Michigan and the United States, the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau presented its Lifetime Achievement Award to Charles Ronald Dufina. Ron was presentedwith the award at the Grand Hotel’s Gate House Restaurant during the Tourism Bureau’sannual Mackinac Night Party.

Ron Dufina has worked tirelessly on behalf of allbusiness owners on Mackinac Island. Inaddition to his work in the Chamber and Tourism Bureau, he has volunteered histime and expertise on committees for the city of Mackinac Island on the taxboard, and on the board of many off Island organizations; most recently withthe Michigan Restaurant Association. Ron has owned many businesses on Mackinac Island during his lifetime; Village Inn Restaurants (Mackinac Island & St. Ignace), Balsam Shops, Loon Feather, Feedbag and the Pontiac Lodge Hotel.

Presenting the award was board member ToddCalleweart , he shared " Ron’s contributions totourism on Mackinac Island have spanned five decades and helped shape theChamber of Commerce and the Tourism Bureau. His life is filled with examples ofhis commitment not only to the industry, but also to his family, friends andcolleagues. He is an integral part of the travel and tourism industry onMackinac Island and paved the way for all of us doing business here. Hisdedication is unsurpassed.” At thatpoint, the room of his colleagues cheered, applauded and gave him a standingovation as Mary McGuire Slevin, executive director of the Mackinac IslandTourism Bureau presented him with his award and a Mackinac Island Money Clipwith images of Round Island Lighthouse and a Tall Ship carved on ancientMammoth Ivory by artist Gary Kiracofe of Island Scrimshanders.

This is the first Lifetime Achievement Awardgiven to an individual nominated by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau board of directors on behalf ofits membership. It is the most prestigioushonor for a lifetime of dedication to the people of Mackinac Island, the business members of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau andthe betterment of travel and tourism.

# # #

The Mackinac Island Tourism Brueau is anon-profit organization made up of businesses, organizations, associations andindividuals dedicated to developing Mackinac Island’s tourism industry to its fullest potential. For moreinformation about the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, visit www.mackinacislandtourismbureau.org or contact (800) 454-5227.

Samhain (Summer’s End) Weekend

2011-10-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

Vogue Scarecrow by Ryba's Fudge Shop

In the celtic world, Samhain marks the end of summer and the beginning of the new year or winter and a time to commemorate the souls of the blessed dead. With the rise of Christianity, it was changed to Halloween and remains a joyous time of family reunion. Here on Mackinac, we celebrate both traditions. Have fun with the kids Trick or Treating downtown, take the spooky Haunts of Mackinac Tour and then gear up for some great grown up Halloween parties at the downtown pubs.

The Island shops work hard to clear out their inventory with great discounts and sales. Be sure to browse on Main Street, Market Street and at the shops at Grand Hotel. This makes a perfect weekend to skip out on Black Friday and get a head start on holiday shopping.

For up to the day room availability, just call the Tourism Bureau (800) 454-5227 and we hope to see you join in our tradition to pull out all the stops and celebrate the end of our main season.

Schedule
Ongoing:
Great Sales in the Island Shops: Main Street, Market Street & Grand Hotel

Friday, October 21
8pm: Haunts of Mackinac Tour www.hauntsofmackinac.com

Saturday, October 22
11:30am: Great Turtle Run 5.7 Mile Run/Walk & Half Marathon. Starts at Mission Point. www.runmackinac.com to register (may also register on Island the morning of the race)

12pm: NCAA: Illinois at Purdue -On the tube in Island pubs

4pm: Main Street Trick or Treating-Starts at Windermere Point.

8pm: NCAA-Wisconsin at MSU-On the tube in Island pubs

8pm: Haunts of Mackinac Tour www.hauntsofmackinac.com

9:30pm: Costume Parties Downtown-Pink Pony, Horn’s Bar, Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub, Mustang, Seabiscuit, Gate House

For room availability or more information:www.mackinacisland.org
800-454-5227
Google Map

Mackinac Island Introduces The First Annual Great Turtle Shopping Week

2011-10-03T13:43:00.000-07:00

Indulge ~ Shop ~ Relax

GreatTurtle Shopping Week-October 5-8, 2011
Allonline registrants will recieve $18 round trip fare on Arnold Transit, Shepler’sFerry and Star Line Ferry know you must register before October 3rd to ensureyour name is at the ticket window in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. If youregister after October 3rd, we are sorry to say your name will not be on thelist.

Ongoing

· Arnold Transit-Complimentary Gift at theTicket Office on Mackinac Island

· Artistic Mackinac Photography by Blair-Receive10% off any canvas or large print, including window stained glass, andenter to win a free 4x6 photograph of your choice.

· Betty's Gifts-Two Tee's for $19.99, TwoSweatshirts for $30.00 and a big selection of clearance clothing. Treats andgiveaways too.

· Destination Mackinac-10% VIP Shoppers discounton all clothing.

· Caddywampus & Flagship-30% off storewide, great flags, windsocks, yard art and more.

· Grand Hotel-All VIP Shopping Passholders willreceive half price admission to Grand Hotel Wednesday-Saturday. Just presentyour pass at the east entrance (near the Aveda Salon). Great specials will beavailable from Cagney & Colony, Astor Salon (Aveda Products) and more. Avedarepresentatives will be at Astor Salonfor giveaways and recommendations.

· Great Turtle Toys-20% off to VIP Shoppers

· Island Bookstore-Free "Peace, Love,Books" tote bag with all purchases over $25 while supplies last.

· Joann's Fudge-10% off and free fudgesamples!!!

· Landing Gull on Market Street-Art, Prints,Clothing and more 20%-50% off.

· Leather Corral-Free Trollbeads bracelet withpurchase of decorative clasp, extra 10% off daily from 3pm-5pm. 20% offstorewide (except trollbeads). On Saturday, October 8th , stop in LeatherCorral to receive a 10% off coupon to Martha's Sweetshop, our sister cafe.

· Lilac Tree Spa Treatments-VIP Shoppers willreceive VIP spa packages; massage, manicures, pedicures, body wraps and more featuringEminence Organic Spa Products. Specials include Buy One Get one Free of allEminence Products as well as 25% off SpaProducts (OPI, Zents, Etc....) $10 from each 50 minute or longer massage willbe donated to Habitat for Humanity. To book: (906) 847-9171

· Lucky Bean Coffeehouse-Impromptu evening performancesby Island musicians

· May's Candy Shop-$1 off with a 1.5 lbs fudgepurchase and a free candy gift for all VIP Shoppers.

· Michigan Peddler-10% off all Michigan madefood products.

· Murdick's Fudge Shops-Send fudge anywhere inthe Contintental USA for just $2.50 per envelope.

· Rose Gazebo-VIP Pricing on Popcorn Blouses,Fall Color Scarves and Children's Wear.

· Thunderbird Gifts-Great deals, giveaway onWednesday and in-store treats on Thursday and Saturday.

· Velvet Candy Shop-Buy 1 get 1 free on allcandy jar items, case chocolates and select boxed candies. Also, get a doubleschool of ice cream for the price of a single scoop!

Getinvolved:
Vintage toVogue Scarecrow Contest-Island businesses enter their Couture Scarecrows (displayed behind the TourismBureau) and the one with the most votes will win an overnight stay for twoduring the 2012 season as well as one of the voters! We supply the styrofoamheads, they'll supply the frame, straw and killer outfits.

WindowDecorating-Fall window display contest at retail shops - vote for yourfavorite window display at the Tourism Bureau and be entered to win a set ofSeries II Lilac Festival Art Posters.

Wednesday,October 5, 2011
9am-5pmVIP Registration-Stop by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau to pick up your VIPShopping Pass and register for prizes from Island Shops. please know, there isno fee for the VIP Shopping Pass.

10am-5pm Astor Salon-Grand Hotel & Aveda come together to offercomplimentary consulations and fabulous samples.

4pm-6pm Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island - Happy Hour Specials,enjoy an additional 10% off items and a light appetizer

10pm-Booty Night feat. DJ Brevin, Ladie's Night!!! Horn's Gaslight Bar {bring your dancing shoes}

Thursday,October 6, 2011

9am-5pm VIP Registration-Stop by the Mackinac Island TourismBureau to pick up your VIP Shopping Pass and register for prizes from IslandShops. please know, there is no fee for the VIP Shopping Pass.

Shopaholic Meets Chocoholic-Island shopkeepers share theirfavorite chocolate treats with VIP shoppers....mmmm.

10am-12pm Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island - Early BirdSpecial-VIP Shoppers will receive and additional 10% off items and chocolatemuffins! Chocolate will also be served all day!!!

7:00pm-Market Street Gallery Walk feat. Victorian Summer Gallery,Maeve's Arts, Lilacs & Lace and more. Meets at Victorian Summer Gallery onMarket Street at Cadotte Avenue.

9:30pm-Meet Me at The Pony! Acoustic Music feat. Singer/SongwriterJamie Marvin, Pink Pony at Chippewa Hotel

10:00pm: Classic Rock Unplugged feat. Myk Rise, one of Mackinac'sfavorite song collectors, Horn's Gaslight Bar

Friday,October 7, 2011

9am-5pm VIP Registration-Stop by the Mackinac Island TourismBureau to pick up your VIP Shopping Pass and register for prizes from IslandShops. please know, there is no fee for the VIP Shopping Pass.

A Little Night Shopping-Island shops stay open till 8pm with greatdeals for all VIP shoppers.

6pm-8pm The Pumpkin Sessions at Lucky Bean Coffeehouse-SistersCarolyn & Heather May will be sharing their guitar and flute talent alongwith children from the music program at Mackinac Island Public School.

7pm-9pm Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island - After DinnerShopping... come in to find out about all of the secret specials.

9:00pm-Comedy Show feat. Stu Stuart, Lilac Tree Hotel

9:30pm-Meet Me at The Pony! Acoustic Music feat. Singer/SongwriterJamie Marvin, Pink Pony at Chippewa Hotel

9:30pm-Acoustic Alchemy feat. Singer/Songwriter Brian Thomas,Grand Gate House. Chill in style while listening to the fabulous voice ofSeattle meets Mackinac Island influenced songwriter Brian Thomas.

10:00pm-Kick Out The Jams feat. The Rise Band, Horn's GaslightBar. After a long day of shopping, enjoy drinks and music at one of the Island'sfavorite watering holes.

Saturday,October 8, 2011
AllDay: Festive Fall Treats-Island Shopkeepers offer their favorite treats to VIPShoppers in addition to some great deals.

9am-11am Complimentarycoffee, danish & mimosa on Arnold Transit’s Straits II on the MackinacIsland Arnold Line dock.

10am-6pm Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island - Serving homemadefall treats along with the recipe and with every purchase, receive a pumpkincookie cutter!

12:00pm-4pm Mackinac Mittens-Lilac Tree Centre feat. beautifulboiled-wool handmade mittens by Island school teachers to raise funds foreducational programs.

2:00pm-4:00pm-Author Meet at Greet-Northern Michigan authorJeanene Cooper, winner of the Independent Publishers' 2009 IPPY Bronze Medalfor Best Regional Fiction, intertwines fact with conspiracy in suspense novelsfrom the Straits of Mackinac.Meet Jeanene and pick up a signed copy of hernovels "If I Shall Never Wake" and "Remnants of Fire" at Island Bookstore

9:30pm-Acoustic Alchemy feat. Singer/Songwriter Brian Thomas,Grand Gate House. Chill in style while listening to the fabulous voice ofSeattle meets Mackinac Island influenced songwriter Brian Thomas.

ParticipatingRestaurants-Just show your VIP Shopping Pass for VIP Pricing & specials

Mustang on Mackinac-The local hang and we love their Detroit ConeyDogs...seriously.

Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub-Traditional Irish Pub with amazingcorned beef if we do say so...

Seabiscuit Café-Three Course Prix Fixe Menu $29 with a glass ofwine or $32 with a bottle of house red or house white wine (delish and what adeal!).

Seabiscuit Cafe Prix Fixe Menu

Chef Jason Meade presents… his Three Trick Pony Prix Fixe Menu, just select one item from each course for $29 per person which includes a glass of house wine or $32 which includes a bottle of wine...from 5pm. For parties of 10 or less, no substitutions.

Starting GateTomato Basil Bisque Soup
House Caesar Salad

The RaceFrench Creole Jambalaya-Red Creole Jambalaya, Andouille Sausage, Chicken, Petite Shrimp, Mussels
Great Lakes Whitefish Filet broiled with Chardonnay, Capers and Lemon. Garnished with Sweet Potato Fries
Salt n’ Pepper Fish & Chips -Hand Dusted and Flash Fried. Served with Haystack Fries
English Pot Roast Muffins-Roast Beef Smothered with Caramelized Spanish Onions. Drizzled with Chunky Blue Cheese.Served with Tavern Dark Ale Onion Rings
Saratoga Rib Bones -Slow Roasted Baby Back Ribs with Billy Bones B.B.Q. Sauce. Served Over Seasoned Haystack Fries

Dessert
Peanut Butter Creme Pie, whipped & chilled...delectable.

Mackinac Island Restaurant Week Prix Fixe Menus

2011-09-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Mackinac Island Restaurant Week
Dining Events: September 25 toOctober 1, 2011

Filet Mignon | Image by Andrejka Photography

Reservations areunnecessary unless noted or bringing groups of 10 or more. Please know, pricesshown do not include beverages (unless stated), gratuity (18% is the standardin Michigan and sales tax is 6%. Several restaurants will add an automaticgratuity for parties of 6 or more.

For chef profiles and recipes, click on www.mackinacislandrestaurantweek.org

1852 Grill Room at Island House Hotel

$35 per person,select one from each course

First Course
Three-Onion FrenchSoup with parmesean crouton garnish
Iceberg Wedge with bacon crisps, roma tomatoes and served with chunky bleucheese dressing
Caesar Salad, romaine leaves with creamy anchovy dressing, shaved agedparmesean cheese and red pepper croutons

Second Course
Prime Rib of Beef--seasalt crusted baked potato, grilled asparagus and natural au jus
Great Lakes Whitefish-sauteed in olive oil, served with potato dauphinois,summer vegetables and an artichoke beurre blanc.
Chicken Mackinac-sauteed chicken breast dressed with sauteed mushroooms andonions, double smoked bacon and gruyere Swiss cheese with a rich poulet velouteand garlic mashed potatoes
Butternut Squash Ravioli-oven roasted: blended with parmesean cheese, amoretticookies and brown sugar, wrapped in sage pasta and tossed with a citrus beurreblanc.

Third Course
Key Lime Pie
Crème Brule Cheesecake
Ryba’s Hot Fudge Sundae

Shrimp & Mussels over Angel Hair Pasta
Image by Andrejka Photography

Chianti at Mission Point Resort
Chianti Prixe FixeMenu $39 per person

Amuse Bouche
Osso Buco Ravioli
Ravioli filled with Braised Beef served with Leak & Mushroom Fricasse,Shaved Parmesan and Truffle Aioli

Soup and Salad (choice of one)
Wedding Soup-Light Chicken Broth, Escarole and Meatballs
Tuscan Onion Soup-Five Onion Soup with Sherry, Gruyere and Provolone
Caesar Salad-Crisp Romaine tossed in a from Scratch Dressing with GarlicCroutons, Parmesan Cheese and White Italian Anchovies
Spinach Salad-Spinach and Radicchio, Gorgonzola Bleu Cheese with PancettaVinaigrette

Entrée (choice of one)
Soft Shell Crab
Semolina Dusted Soft Shell Crab over Roasted Corn Polenta with Heirloom TomatoRelish

Grilled PorkChop-14oz Herb Grilled Pork Chop with Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi and Asparagus
Grilled New York Strip Steak-18oz Grilled Center Cut New York Strip Steak withWild Mushroom Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Gorgonzola infused Demi Glace toppedwith Onion Straws

Dolce (choice of one)
Coffee and Donuts
Fresh Zeppole tossed in Cinnamon & Sugar, served with Vanilla Gelato and aDouble Shot of Espresso
Crème Brule-Creamy Vanilla Bean Custard “flaming” with Fresh Seasonal Berries
Classic Tiramisu-Espresso dipped lady fingers with Mascarpone and Kaluha

Cudahy Chophouse at the Inn atStonecliffe
Five Course Dining Experience $35 per person. A Gratuity of 19% will be addedto parties of six or more. Split plates not allowed on this menu offering. Selectone item from each course.

Soup:
Lobster Bisque-Finishedwith Crème Fraiche
French Onion with Toasted Cheese Crostini

Salad Course:
StonecliffeSalad-Mixed Field Greens, Cucumbers, Cherry Tomatoes, Carrots,
Spiced Pecans, White Balsamic Vinaigrette

ClassicCaesar-Crisp Romaine tossed with Traditional Caesar Dressing
Asiago and Parmesan Cheeses, House made Croutons

Main Course:
Grilled PorkChops-Two Six ounce Bone-in Loin Chops with Double Orange Glaze
Served with Redskin Potatoes and Chef’s Vegetable
Straits of Mackinac Whitefish-Potato Crusted Whitefish Filet with ShrimpMousse and Choron Sauce. Served with Artichoke Risotto and Fresh Asparagus
Michigan Cherry Chicken-Chicken Breast stuffed with Honey Goat Cheese,Hazelnuts and Dried Cherries. Served with Wild Mushroom Risotto and Chef’sVegetable Portobello Ravioli-Served with Creamy Alfredo Sauce and WildMushrooms, Topped with White Truffle Oil and Shaved Parmesan
Stonecliffe Beef Wellington*-Beef Tips and Wild Mushroom Bordelaise servedin Puff Pastry. Served with Redskin Potatoes and Chef’s Vegetable

Dessert Course
Moscato Berry Torte
New York Style Cheesecake
Chocolate Mousse Trio
Creme Brulee

Gate House Three Course Dinner
Available after 5:30pm $32 per person
No Splitting or Substitutions, Please | Available to parties of 10 or Less

Starters
Avocado-Chicken Egg Rolls
Iceberg Wedge Salad
Soup of the Day

Entrees
Herb-Crusted Whitefish Filet with Summer Vegetable Orzo, Citrus Butter
Grilled Rosemary Chicken with Celery Root, Black Eyed Pea Salad
Peppercorn-Crusted Wagyu Beef Burger with Roquefort Cheese & Crispy Onions
Medallion of Black Angus Beef with Roasted Shallots and Marsala Demi-glace

Dessert
Grand Pecan Ball,Fudge Sauce
Cheesecake of the Day

Goodfellow's Italian Chophouse
Please choose one option from each course $34.99 per person, no splitting orsubstitutions

First Course
Crab Cakes
Spinach Dip
Coconut Shrimp

SecondCourse
Stuffed Whitefish
Chicken Marsala
Prime Rib
Tortellini Alla Vodka

Dessert
Chef's Choice
Dinner includes 1 glass of house wine ornon-alcoholic beverage, bread and soup or salad.

Scallops | Image by Mackinac Design

The Jockey Club at the Grand Stand
Jockey Club Three Course Dinner
One Selection Per Course Available After 5:30 pm $35 per person
No Splitting or Substitutions Please | For Parties of 10 or less

Appetizers
Florida White Prawn Cocktailwith Horseradish Sauce
Caesar Salad with Chipotle Dressing
Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Chowder with Sherry Cream

Entrées

Herb CrustedBaked Mackinac Whitefish with Creamed Spinach and Tartar Sauce
Black Angus Jockey Club Steak Burger*with Bacon, Cheddar, Tomato Confit andOnions
Rotisserie Farm Chicken-Half Chicken with Summer Sausage and Root Vegetables
Grilled 8oz Prime New York Steak* with Crispy Onions and Maytag Blue CheeseSauce

Desserts
Grand Pecan Ballwith Fudge Sauce
Chef John’s Chocolate Brownie with Chocolate Mousse and Chocolate Ice Cream
Seasonal Fruit with Lemon Sorbet

Mary's Bistro
Chef Justin Hornyakpresents your choice of the following entrees, simply select one item from eachcourse for $29.95 per person.

Salad Course:
1-House greens withchoice of dressing
2-Arugula salad with sundried cherries, feta cheese, roasted tomatoes withcherry balsamic viniagrette

Main Course:
1-Spitfired Chickenserved with garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus
2- Potato encrusted Whitefish in an herb burre blanc served with pilaf andasparagus
3-Vegetable Wellington stuffed with seasonal vegetables & Boursin cheeseserved with Quinoa in a roasted tomato-caper sauce

Dessert Course:
1-Toffee Blondiewith Ice Cream
2-Chocolate Spoon Loving Cake

Grand Marshmallows | Image by Andrejka Photography

Mustang Lounge Lunch Menu
Chef Shawn"Chicken" Fearon presents a fabulous Mackinac lunch at the legendaryMustang Lounge for $8.99 per person

Tomato Bisqueor Butternut Squash Soup
Smoked Seafood Salad served in a Romaine lettuce jammer with flat breadcrackers

Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub
Chef Shawn"Chicken" Fearon presents your choice from each course for $27.99 perperson

Starter Course:
Potato Leek Chowderor Irish House Salad with your choice of dressing

Main Course:
14oz New York StripSteak topped with Guiness smoked bleu cheese butter
7oz Irish Halibut encrusted with tricolor tortilla crumb topped with IrishWhiskey Butter served with tri-colored baby potatos in atruffle oil mash,steamed broccolini and baby carrots with tips.

Pink Pony at Chippewa Hotel
Please select oneitem from each course $29 per person

First Course
Soup DuJour
House Salad with choice of dressing
Gorgonzola Salad
Caesar Salad

Second Course
Broiled Whitefish
10oz Prime Rib
Baby Back Ribs
Chicken Boursin

Third Course
Dessert Selection ofthe Day

Seabiscuit Cafe & Grog
Chef Jason Meade presents… his Three Trick Pony Prix Fixe Menu, just select oneitem from each course for $29 per person which includes a glass of housewine...from 5pm
For parties of 10 or less, no substitutions.

Starting Gate
Tomato Basil BisqueSoup
House Caesar Salad

The Race
*French CreoleJambalaya-Red Creole Jambalaya, Andouille Sausage, Chicken, Petite Shrimp,Mussels
Great Lakes Whitefish Filet broiled with Chardonnay, Capers and Lemon. Garnishedwith Sweet Potato Fries
Salt n’ Pepper Fish & Chips -Hand Dusted and Flash Fried. Served with Haystack Fries
English Pot Roast Muffins-Roast Beef Smothered with Caramelized SpanishOnions. Drizzled with Chunky BlueCheese.Served with Tavern Dark Ale Onion Rings
Saratoga Rib Bones -Slow Roasted Baby Back Ribs with Billy Bones B.B.Q.Sauce. Served Over Seasoned HaystackFries

Dessert
Peanut Butter Creme Pie, whipped & chilled...delectable.

Village Inn Restaurant
Restaurant WeekDinner Specials From 4 pm … $ 14.95
Served with a cup of soup or petite garden salad, fresh vegetables and asmall chocolate sundae

Fresh GreatLakes White Fish
Broiled with the same butter and seasonings as our famous planked whitefish,Savory rice pilaf
Sautéed Beef Tips & Mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, finished with wineand wild mushroom demi glace, tossed with whole wheat linguini
Chipotle Lime Barbequed Chicken, half chicken oven roasted with a tangybarbeque glaze, mashed redskins and gravy

Preparation | Image by Andrejka Photography

Yankee Rebel Tavern
Prix Fixe DinnerMenu $34.95 per person, select onefrom each course

Starter Course
Potato Leek Chowder, Chef‘s Soup duJour,
Caprese Salad or Caesar Salad

Entrees
Crispy Fried OrangeGlazed Duck Breast
Teriyaki Shrimp and Bacon Sticky Rice and fresh vegetables

Grilled ABCStuffed Pork Chop from Plath’s
Apples, Bacon and Aged Cheddar stuffing topped with a light Dijon Mustard Sauceserve with chive whipped potatoes and fresh vegetables

Drambuie SeaScallops
Large Sea Scallops pan seared and tossed with a rich Drambuie cream sauce serveon Angel Hair pasta

14 oz CenterCut Ribeye Steak
Char-grilled locally raised certified Angus Beef topped with smoked criminidemi-glace serve with White Truffle whipped potatoes and fresh vegetables

Desserts
Vanilla Crème Brulee or Chocolate Cheese Cake

Great Turtle Shopping Week!!!

2011-09-12T09:03:00.001-07:00

Going shopping is a leisure activity here on Mackinac Island. It is a way of relaxing, a source of entertainment and a chance to meet up with friends and share experiences.

Every fall, as Mackinac Island's shops get ready to close down for the winter, there are great sales and specials downtown from Main Street to Market Street, at the shops at Grand Hotel and Mission Point Resort.

Great Turtle Shopping Week is a wonderful time of year ...and especially because everyone is invited to have a nice getaway while preparing for the holidays. Please click on this link to ensure your complimentary VIP Shopping Pass is waiting for you upon arrival to the Island.

Rockin' the Shell off the Turtle: Mackinac Island Music Festival

2011-08-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

Music Fest Day 3 Round Up: Sky was blue, water clear and the first show of the day was by Island summer resident and guitar professor Roger Humphrey at the Mackinac Island Library. It was packed and Roger's journey through Baroque Guitar Music was breathtaking.

Then it was onto see Lew Russ at Bistro on the Greens. Lew has been a staple on the Mackinac Island scene for a few decades but hasn't been here regularly for many years now. So many familiar faces came to enjoy his smooth vocals and elegant guitar work.

Sound check went great for the Howling Diablos and Blood Sisters at the Mission Point Theatre. Sound engineer Donny Henderson was stellar, especially with his knowledge and his relaxed demeanor. Everyone was chill.

The show started at 8pm with Dan Calvin's dry sense of humor. Dan runs the Make & Break Radio Show on radiomackinac.org and he introduced Terri Ray, she is the voice of Northern Michigan rock radio at WKLT...for 28 years now.

Terri Ray hit the stage and got everyone riled up for the bands. Blood Sisters hit the stage for their first full band gig. It was jawdropping, soaring harmonies, layers of textured guitar work by Mary McGuire, Michelle Chenard and JC Whitelaw supported by the sonic bass guitar work of Gary Rasmussen and the thunder of drummer Nino Dmytryszyn. The finale tune was the droning DADGAD dark anthem Goodbyes Don't Make You Gone which morphed into Kashmir by Zeppelin. Payton smoked the vocals, Whitelaw, McGuire & Chenard showed their Page meets Heart guitar influences and Rasmussen and Whitelaw ripped some great riffs that fit so perfectly with Nino Dmytryszyn's powerful drumming.

Terri Ray came back and introduced one of Detroit's most revered bands and in our estimation, one of the best bands on the planet, the Howling Diablos. Describing their show is really beyond words because it is an experience everyone must have, it's like going to a tent revival in the dust bowl of America during the great depression and they are the dudes that set up the tent revival with their music as the snake oil. The pulled out a ton of tunes and featured many from their nrew album Utlra Sonic Gas Can (www.cdbaby. com/cd/howlingdiablos1).

Tino Gross got the crowd into the groove quickly with his laid back-yet in your face vocals and brilliant lyrics. Johnny Evans was killer on the saxophone and his use of the harmonizer with his tenor sax made textures that were so fresh and dirty all at the same time. Bass player Mo Hollis had an killer groove on everything and at one point during the Gene Krupa bit, he sounded like he was playing his bass with a sharp knife screetching across the strings...very cool. Evil E aka Erik Gustafson clearly influenced by all the great rock guitarists and very Zappaesque, chewed up and spit out every genre by creating his own with complete abandon. He plays in such a visionary way-never overshadowing any one else's moment but when it was his turn, his guitar-playing prowess was so incredibly clear that you couldn't take your eyes of him for a second. He is well versed in edgy, 3/4-step bends, well-developed fret-hand techniques...to get to the point...he is like nirvana to anyone that seriously plays the guitar. Legendary Detroit Rock Drummer Johnny Bee Badanjek, whose played with everyone of note all over the world for the past 5 decades has found a great home as the groove-master for the Diablos. He is one of the most influential rock drummers on the planet and again, takes the genres before him, rips 'em up and with complete finesse...and interprets thunder and lightening into something graceful yet powerful, like '63 split window Corvette with 392 hemi dual quads.

After the show, everyone headed to the Pink Pony to jam with The Rise Band. Myk Rise has been a staple on the Mackinac Island acoustic music scene for over two decades and is encylopedia like in his knowledge of music from the 60's to now. He was a gracious host and it was a pleasure to hear him playing electric guitar with his band. Joining him were Detroit bassist Lance Larson, keyboardist Anna Stornant and Northern Michigan drummer Billy Newland. Island bass player Tom Chambers sat in and rocked out some solid late 60's rock and roll.

Then when the other festival musicians made it downtown, new collaborations were born. Rudy Gerbo from GRR and Michelle Chenard from Blood Sisters rocked it out with keyboardist Craig Frost (Bob Seger Silver Bullet Band/Grand Funk Railroad) and Barbara Payton (Blood Sisters/Bob Seger Silver Bullet Band) on American Band along with Larson, Rise and Newland.

Guitarist Mary McGuire (Blood Sisters) curated a powerful version of Snoop Dogg's Gin and Juice meets Lou Reed's Walk on the Wild Side with a dose of Beastie Boys Sabatoge with guitarist Erik Gustafson (Howling Diablos), keyboardist George Canterbury (Forbes Brothers), drummer Nino Dmytryszyn (Blood Sisters/GRR), mandolin by Myk Rise (Rise Band), bassist Gary Rasmussen (Blood Sisters/GRR), vocalist Mo Hollis (Howling Diablos) and vocalist Michelle Chenard (Blood Sisters). The groove was great and the crowd was pumped.

When the night was over, a load of musicians grabbed acoustic guitars and went to Island Slice Pizzeria to play for Nicole Beaune who ended up working a double. Nicole has helped with the festival for the past few years and was totally bummed that she couldn't make it. The musicians walked in, grabbed her from behind the counter and sat her down and played her a few tunes. She was so grateful and blown away after working a double to get a private/public concert. And that is what sharing music is all about.

Photographer Kate Levy rocked the imagery and we can't wait to see her collection from the show. Rand Shakelton shot film of the entire event and Donny Henderson grabbed the live feed right off the sound board. As soon as we have something to share, we sure will post links.

This music festival was indeed special this year and totally spectacular.

Music Fest Day 2 Round Up: Audra Kubat started the day at Mary's Bistro on the waterside...everyone was blown away with the intimacy of her performance on guitar and ukelele. Lew Russ shared his amazing chops at Bistro on the Greens {and it was really great having him back on Mackinac Island after so long}. Blood Sisters rehearsed and the Diablos hit the rock. The Forbes Bros show was a delight, Brian Thomas wowed us with his new songs, GRR rocked the house big time and the Forbes were soooooo outstanding. They had a special surprise for all of us and feat. Charlie and Sherry Springer on a few tunes as well as Michelle Chenard. Afterwards the musicians headed to the Pink Pony to jam with the Myk Rise Band and Horn's was packed to the rafters for Booty Night with DJ Brevin, DJ Psycho and DJ Rock City. A very successful musical day indeed!

Music Fest Day 1: Tricky Dicky in the park, they rocked it, perfect way to kick off the festival. Then, off to the Inn at Stonecliffe to hear Audra Kubat, Carolyn Striho and Scott Dailey. Absolutely a great time, the music was amazing and the Inn was gorgeous. Then we biked down the hill to the Gate House where Alex Graham reminded us what real live jazz is all about. He and his quartet were astounding.
By: Mackinac Island Music Festival

Contemporary Artists Featured at Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum

2011-07-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

An exhibition featuring the works of twenty-eight artists will officially open on Sunday, July 17 at The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum. The public is invited to a reception from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the museum featuring short comments, music, and light refreshments. The show runs through the remainder of the museum’s 2011 season, closing October 9.

Pieces in the invitational show were selected from more than 90 two-dimensional works submitted by artists from across the country and had to feature “Mackinac” as their theme. Jurist for the exhibition was Robert Wilbert, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Art and Art History at Wayne State University. In commenting on his process for selecting the works, Professor Wilbert noted, “it is important in an exhibition such as this to recognize in a work its originality as well as the skill displayed.” He also looked for “evidence of the artist’s effort to tackle the problem in making a work that is original in its concept as well as it execution.”

Professor Wilbert also selected the “Best of Show,” second place and third place winners for the show. The awards will be announced at the opening reception. Each includes a cash prize, the Best of Show winner also receiving the “Manoogian Medal.” Mackinac Arts Council sponsored the Best of Show prize, Grand Hotel the second-place prize, and Mackinac Associates the third-place prize. “We are extremely grateful to the Arts Council, Grand Hotel, and Mackinac Associates for sponsoring the prizes,” says Phil Porter, director of Mackinac State Historic Parks. “Their generosity displays great support and commitment to the new art museum.”

An invitational show of Mackinac art was featured at the museum last year, commemorating the opening of the museum. A show featuring the work of artist Richard Wolfgang preceded this year’s invitational. An exhibit of contemporary photographic works will open in early August and will run in conjunction with the current show until the end of the season.

From Native American baskets to present-day paintings of the island, The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum highlights treasures in Mackinac State Historic Park’s collection and inspires creativity in others. The art museum, generously funded by the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation, brings together Mackinac art created over the centuries. The art museum, located within the historic Indian Dormitory building, is open daily through October 9. General admission to the art museum is $5.00 adult, $3.50 youth ages 5-17, and free for children 4 and under and Mackinac Associates members. Also included with admission from mid-June to late August is “The Kids’ Art Studio,” a hands-on art learning center, located within the museum. For more information on The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum and The Kids’ Art Studio, visit http://www.mackinacparks.com/mackinac-art-museum.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present Mackinac’s rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of the public. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at MackinacParks.com.

# # #

Yell “Huzzah!” for Vintage Base Ball on Mackinac Island

2011-07-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Fort Mackinac Never Sweats Take on Bay City Independents July 23, 2011 and it sure to be a clash of the titans. With the home-field advantage and co-captain John “Ratso” Hiller, a player on the 1968 World Champion Detroit Tigers, the Never Sweats may have the upper hand. However, there’s no predicting how the game may go. Vintage base ball is full of surprises...especially when the rules are unlike anything you’ve seen before.

This Vintage Base Ball game is an actual, competitive sporting event, it is “base ball” as it was played in the

United States

when it first became popular in the 1860s after the Civil War. In fact, its rules date back to the 1840s. We’ve all seen the near catch that turned into a double. But what happens when a ball caught on one bounce is still an out, just like a fly ball? What happens when baseball gloves are not allowed? And no sliding? It’s all played by gentlemen’s rules, yet by players who are determined to win.

“We play a real game,” said Phil Porter, Mackinac State Historic Parks director and Never Sweats shortstop. “We’re competitive and we want to win, but most importantly we demonstrate the gentlemanly manner in which the game was first played.”

That means no spitting, swearing, or smoking on the field. If a player is caught doing this, according to Porter, he must apologize to the crowd and cannot play again until his apology is accepted and a fine is paid.

During the game, the “cranks” (fans) are coached on vintage terms by an umpire with a top hat and megaphone who will also enforce the rules. Player positions are referred to as they were over 150 years ago. A “striker” is up to bat, waiting for the “hurler” to pitch the ball. As a crank, you’ll learn nineteenth-century cheers. Yell “huzzah” for your team! Even the players’ uniforms are vintage.

The Fort Mackinac Never Sweats have a history spanning 125 years, when Lieutenant Edward Pratt of Fort Mackinac helped form the team in 1885. Fort Mackinac soldiers had played baseball, unofficially, since 1871 because service at Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, built by the British during 1779-1781, provided officers and enlisted men with liberal amounts of free time. “Base ball” (spelled as two words during that era) proved to be just what the soldiers needed. Lieutenant Pratt became the team captain and contributed the first four dollars to the club to fund two new bats and a baseball. By mid-summer, the team was playing “base ball” on the large parade ground behind the fort, a baseball field which is still in use today. In fact, it may be Michigan’s oldest, continuously played ball field. In the mid 1930s, a scout barracks was constructed near the ball field and since that time Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts beginning in 1974, have regularly used this ball field. Since 2003, the Fort Mackinac Never Sweats have hosted their annual vintage base ball game on this field as well, just like their predecessors many years before.

In the late 1880s, the original Never Sweats continued to flourish even after Lieutenant Pratt’s service, when the Twenty-third Infantry was stationed at Fort Mackinac. Corporal Robert “Tug” Wilson became the team’s official scorer and scheduled games with teams from cities around northern Michigan including Mackinaw City, Sault Ste. Marie, Harbor Springs, Petoskey, and Reed City. Fort officers continued to support the team and even allowed the men to construct a grand stand capable of seating 500 cranks! The soldiers charged a twenty-five cent admission to their home games, with seating in the grand stand costing ten cents extra.

When Fort Mackinac, then part of Mackinac National Park, became Mackinac Island State Park (Michigan’s first state park), the soldiers departed. However, they didn’t leave before instilling a tradition of vintage base ball into the fabric of the fort itself.

Admission is $18 for families, $6 for adults, $3 for youth ages 5-17 and free for children 4 and under and Mackinac Associates members Friend Level and above.

Contact Mackinac State Historic Parks at (906) 847-3328 or log on to MackinacParks.com/fort-mackinac/ for more information on the Vintage Base Ball Game.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at www.MackinacParks.com.

103rd Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Gets Ready for Mackinac Island

2011-07-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Approaching Mackinac
photo credit: Mackinac Design

The 103rd Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, presented by Veuve Clicquot, is one of the oldest and most prestigious freshwater sailing races in the world. 'The Mac,' starts in downtown Chicago two miles east of Navy Pier. The fleet will sail up Lake Michigan, continue just over four miles into Lake Huron and finish off Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan, a distance of 333 miles.

The Cruising fleet will set sail at 3:00 pm Friday, July 15th and the Racing fleets will start from 11:30 am Saturday, July 16, 2011, with smaller, slower boats starting first.

This year 361 boats will be racing across 20 sections and each of the sections will provide a race within the race. One of the hardest fought, is amongst the one design fleets of Tartan T10 and younger LS10s - boats that just seem to say Great Lakes.

Chicago Yacht Club sailors Nancy and Tim Snyder are owners of a 1984-built Tartan T10 called Cheap Thrill. They have won the T-10 section in the Mac seven times and have placed second overall one of those times. This is Tim's 23rd Mackinac race and Nancy's 22nd.

Nancy explained, ‘The T10s are very popular here in Chicago and across the Great Lakes. Other than that, there are only a handful of them in San Francisco and Houston and maybe a few in Florida. Tartan Marine was an Ohio based company so the marketing had a lot to do with being local.

‘In my view, they are tremendously popular boats because they are large enough to enable you to do all the racing on the Great Lakes, you can do the Mac Race in them, for example. The T10's, stopped production in 1984, so they are not new. They are very affordable, they are terrific day sailing boats and they have a great big cockpit. They are great for just going out with a bunch of friends and spending the day on the boat. There are a number of them that don't race and they are used as day-sailers and such.

‘You also have some accommodation below. There is single burner stove that allows you to boil water, a sink and there is a Porta-Potti, not like an official head with a shower or anything. The boats are very basic - we call them fiber glass pup tents.

‘In the newer LS10s you are able to stand up down below, but in the older T10s you cannot, you are crouched over. There are no windows but it is not a very big boat. You do have this great big hatch cover that when you take it off gives you quite a lot of light below. It's a really great all around boat for day sailing, for racing and for cruising, as long as you don't need luxurious accommodations.

The Details
photo credit: Mackinac Design

‘The newer LS10s have identical hulls but by default they are younger boats, so yes they use a little different construction than some of the older boats, but I will tell you that most of the older boat owners are serious competitors and have done a lot of rebuilding of the hulls. There have been some modifications allowed in some of the bracing, the stiffening that we can do to the older hulls to keep them competitive.

‘They are not quick boats. In howling gales you will be going upwind probably six and a half knots. Downwind you could do a steady nine to ten, with fourteen to fifteen knot surges down the waves.

‘We have always felt the T10 provides some terrific racing, so we get the same thrill as everybody else that's out there going down the waves.

Nancy noted, ‘To be honest we are the cheap seats on the Lake. Affordability and the restricted number and type of sails you can purchase and the kind of equipment you can put on the boat, keeps it within reach people's reach. I think that is part of the reason for the great popularity of the class.

‘On Cheap Thrill specifically this will be our 13th race and we never get tired of the close racing.' said Nancy.

Tim continued. ‘The closest finish we have been involved in was last year's. Within the last 100 yards of the finish line the wind turned off, it just stopped but it didn't turn off for the boats approaching the finish line. It literally looked like a train derailment and with the same kind of panicky noises that would come from a train derailment.'

Nancy explained ‘There were boats going every which way. There was a pretty sizeable current and we were finishing with some of the guys that were doing the double-handed race.

‘We had big boats in there, we had T10s in there, boats were pointing to nearly every point on the compass and it was night. The only thing that was missing was a freighter coming through the straits for us..... that would have just put the icing on the cake' smiled Nancy broadly.

‘In the T10 fleet, Steve Koop's American Flyer and Cheap Thrill had been vying for first and second, back and forth for a day, the better part of 30 hours most probably, and we both got caught up on one end of the line and this vacuum. Mark Kroll and his son and daughter and crew on Retention, the wonderful sailors that they are, was a little bit behind us. Of course they saw us and our struggles, and decided, rightly so and very smartly, not to go there.

Tim said ‘The finish line is quite long, being between Mackinac Island and Round Island, so you have your choice of which end to finish.'

Nancy recounted ‘Retention went around us and won the race. I think they had been maybe a mile behind us, but they won, fair and square, and we watched it happen and we couldn't do a thing.'

Tim said ‘Nine seconds behind Retention was American Flyer and four seconds later was Cheap Thrill.

‘In other years, we've had finishes within 30 seconds. One time we were first and another T-10 nearly caught us at the finish line. We were drifting and they were coming very quickly with wind, and we barely managed to hold on to the lead. The kind of ‘train derailment' that we experienced actually happens with some frequency to the very larger boats, to the 50 and 70 footers, because they often finish very early Monday morning and they get up there at say two in the morning and the wind turns off, as it often does anywhere on the Lake.

‘But it turns off especially there at the top end, because Mackinac is this big granite rock outcropping in the Lake. A bunch of thermal masses with cold water flowing between it, an interesting heat transfer environment.'

Nancy continued ‘It's a very interesting race because of the elements on Lake Michigan and as you get to the upper end with all the islands there's so much at play.

‘The sense of tradition and the sense of family involvement for the Mac Race are both an enormous factor. There are so many boats that are family teams and it is a very special part of this race. The tradition of it and the fact that the specialness of the race gets passed down from generation to generation is really amazing' concluded Nancy.

Next Saturday the 18 sections of the racing fleet are scheduled to start from 1130am, when the double handed boats start first. The T-10's will, restarts and delays aside should start at 1150am. The last class to start will be the biggest of the monohull boats, the turbo's scheduled to start at 1420 (2:20pm)

For more information: www.cycracetomackinac.com

Race to Mackinac Weather Update

2011-07-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

Windquest Rounding the Finish Line
photo credit: Mackinac Design

The Chicago Yacht Club's 103rd Race to Mackinac, presented by Veuve Clicquot, is just a few days away and there are 3,400 sailors and their families now beginning to focus on the expected weather conditions.

It seems a colorful spinnaker start is likely for both the 50 boat Cruising fleet, whose scheduled start is this Friday 15 July, and for the 301 faster Racing boats that will head off from 11:30am Saturday 16 July, on the 333 mile race to Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan.

This morning Chicago Mackinac Race Weather forecaster Chris Bedford was very upbeat about the weather ahead.

‘It is looking like a pretty good race. The current high pressure system will stay over the Great Lakes for the next couple of days. That moves out to the east late on Friday and Saturday while a new weather front will be approaching from the North West.

‘That will set up a developing southerly flow, which is obviously the best condition for the fleet as it will be pushing them along up towards the Mackinac Bridge.

‘I think that the start on Saturday will begin in a light south east lake breeze initially, and that the lake breeze will probably shut down for a short period, but I don't think it will be all that long before we start to get into a gradient south to south-south west wind that will build across the entire Lake by early Sunday morning.

‘That will continue to build probably into the mid teens I would say across much of the Lake on Sunday and could be around 20 knots Sunday night into Monday.

‘On top of that there will likely be a fairly decent wind acceleration going on through the Mac Straits as well.

‘The way I see it right now is that the fleet will have a little bit of a slow start in the lake breeze but will be finishing in moderate to fresh conditions, probably on late Sunday night for the faster boats and Monday for the medium paced boats.

‘I definitely see this year, right now, as the ‘rich getting richer' scenario. It looks like the wind will be building in the upper part of the Lake first and then working its way down the Lake, so that any boat that is ahead and able to nose up into that stronger pressure is just going to be getting more and more pressure all the time.

‘I see the leading boats just extending way as they get further north.

‘Certainly it does look like a big boat race that's for sure, especially with that wind direction.

7th Annual Mackinac Island Music Festival Schedule of Events

2011-07-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

Tricky Dicky & the Spoonmen

Mackinac Island Music Festival Schedule of Events
August 16-18, 2011

Tuesday, August 16

Tricky Dicky & the Spoonmen-Marquette Park, 4pm

Mackinac Island's own Tricky Dicky & The Spoonmen kick off the festival with a fun concert in Marquette Park. Briggs and Stratton voted Marquette Park "Best Lawn with a View", that combined with the music of this fun college rock inspired band will have everyone groovin' on a summer afternoon.

Audra Kubat & Carolyn Striho-Sunsets at Stonecliffe, 6pm-9pm

Mackinac Island's largest summer mansion turned estate hotel features the best songwriters in the state. This is the perfect event to have a delicious dinner and great bottle of wine on the portico or lush lawn while listening to heartfelt songs from Detroit Music Award winning songwriter Carolyn Striho & Times Beach recording artist Audra Kubat along with a special rock art exhibition and music festival poster signing with Rock n Roll Hall of Fame artist Mark Arminski.

Alex Graham Quartet

Alex Graham Quartet-Grand Hotel's Gate House, 10pm

The festival kicks off with Jazz Night at the Gate House. Grand Hotel musical director/alto saxophonist Alex Graham and his quartet are among the best musicians on the scene. In addition to writing arrangements for vocalists Diane Schuur and John Boutte, he has also composed and arranged for small group, big band and studio orchestra. Under his leadership, USA Today has praised Grand Hotel’s music as its best amenity.

Singer Songwriter Audra Kubat

Wednesday, August 17

Singer Songwriter Audra Kubat-Mary's Bistro, 3pm-5pm

Detroit Music Award Winning Songwriter performs on the deck overlooking the straits of Mackinac.

Singer Songwriter Lew Russ -Bistro on the Greens, 6pm-9pm

Howling Dog Recording artist Lew Russ shares his music overlooking the straits of Mackinac at Mission Point's Bistro on the Greens.

Ron Jacobs of the Forbes Brothers

Forbes Brothers wsg Brian Thomas and GRR-Mission Point Theatre, 8pm tix $10

Fueled by the songwriting of Scott and Dennis Forbes, the Forbes Brothers are a force on the Detroit Country Music Scene. Recipients of over 25 Detroit Music Awards, they have forged a unique sound and style all their own. Drawing from a palette that includes country, blues, rock and Motown, the band creates music that transcends traditional categories.

Opening the show will be Seattle-based musician Brian Thomas who calls Mackinac his home each summer, while taking a break from playing in the indie/folk band Rosie Thomas. He is an incredible musician and his voice makes us all wish he would never stop singing.

Gary Rasmussen and Co.

GRR takes the stage after Brian Thomas and features bassist Gary Rasmussen (Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, Blue Stone Project, Sonic Rendevous, Thunder Chiefs) with blues-rock singer guitarist & veteran Rudy "Rude Dog" Gerbo. Rudy's voice recalls Greg Allman and Bob Seger and Gary's bass playing is from another planet completely. In addition, they will be joined by Detroit Music Award winners guitarist JC Whitelaw (Ash Can Van Gogh, Forbes Brothers, Broken Toys, Barbara Payton Band) and drummer Nino Dmytryzyn (Ash Can Van Gogh, JIll Jack, Bell Tower, Blood Sisters, Thunder Chiefs). we can't wait to welcome them back to the festival stage.

Jammin'

Booty Night Extravanza - feat. DJ Brevin, DJ Rock City & DJ Psycho, Horn's Gaslight Bar, 10pm

Three DJs tag team for an amazing night of dance/trance/hiphop music at Horn's Bar's legendary Booty Night.

DJ Brevin-Mackinac Island, MI-Our own homeboy DJ Brevin (Brevin Cawthorne) is well known all over Michigan but especially on Mackinac Island for his club work, signature cratches, mixes, mashes and the way he revs up the crowd. He's done shows for Kid Rock, Tito Bacardi, Tom Izzo and more on and off Island. Brevin is a legend on Mackinac Island, come feel what the fuzz is all about.

DJ Rock City-Chicago, IL-Rock City (Brandon Joseph) holds court at Chicago's Underground, Le Passage and NV Penthouse Lounge, was voted Top DJ in the city. His style and energy got people listening and quickly led to his own weekly club spot, called “Adrenaline Rush.” Rock City was Maxim Magazine's 2007 spring break DJ in Acapulco, where he performed in front of 20,000 fans and opened for names like DJ AM, DJ Vice, DJ Green Lantern, T-Pain and Lil' Flip.

DJ Psycho-Flint, MI-The first thing that you notice about DJ Psycho (Dezi Magby) when he plays is that he pays absolutely NO attention to the rules. Genres? Mere suggestions. Somehow he ties everything together quicker than your brain can process the method. He engages the audience in a sort of willful combat for the soul of the party, leaving you at once satisfied and begging for more. Musically knowledgeable with a flair for the dramatic, Psycho bridges the gap between the technical aspects of being a DJ and the stage antics of a rock star, all while EXCLUSIVELY using vinyl. Not many DJs have that sort of controlled chaos as their calling card these days; he is at once a throwback and the wave of the future.

Blood Sisters

Thursday, August 18

Singer Songwriter Audra Kubat-Mary's Bistro, 3pm-5pm

Detroit Music Award Winning Songwriter performs on the deck overlooking the straits of Mackinac.

Baroque Guitarist Roger Humphrey-Mackinac Island Public Library, 4pm

Roger Humphrey will take us on a journey through the beautiful music of the Baroque era. He began playing classical guitar in 1958 at the age of 10 and began teaching guitar in 1967. He has been on faculty at Olivet College since 1987 and Marshall's School of Music in Lansing since 1980. We are fortunate that he summers here each season and will be performing at the festival this season. The library has great acoustics and the room is designed by Carleton Varney, which makes for a very beautiful concert setting. This concert will be spectacular and we recommend arriving a bit early as seating will be limited.

Howling Diablos

Howling Diablos wsg Blood Sisters, Mission Point Theatre, 8pm, tix $10

The Howling Diablos rockin, funky, blues jam style is well known in Detroit, and everywhere they have toured, as a great live music experience. Since their formation in the 90’s they have toured with and opened for acts including George Clinton’s Parliament Funkadelic, Alice Cooper, Albert Collins, Ben Harper, Hank Williams Jr, NRBQ, Incubus and The James Gang as well as headlining their own shows. Recordings include Beatnik Mambo(Teenage), Live(Top Dog) and Green Bottle(Overture). The Bass Brothers, now teamed with Eminem, produced the title track, “Green Bottle”, a local hit.

Good Rockin Tonight(Sire), an Ahmet Ertegun produced tribute to Sun Records, features the Diablos cut “Wine Spo Dee O Dee” with a guest appearance from Kid Rock. This record also spawned a film for the PBS series, “American Masters”, featuring a performance by the band. The Diablos appeared on Fat Possum releases by Nathaniel Mayer and RL Burnside that were produced by Tino Gross. Their latest release is the critically acclaimed Car Wash(Alive).

Opening the show will be Blood Sisters,a powerhouse Americana trio feat Barbara Payton (Bob Seger, Kid Rock), Michelle Chenard (Best Songwriter Northern Michigan) and Mary McGuire (Detroit Music Awards, Best Acoustic Artist) with soaring vocals and plenty of swagger to kick off the night and then some.

Barbara Payton and Audra Kubat Backstage

Pink Pony Jam feat The Rise Band, Chippewa Hotel, 10pm till ???

Be sure to head over to the Pony for the post concert jam with The Rise Band…where festival musicians jam until the wee hours.

For tickets, click on www.mackinacislandmusicfestival.org
or call (800) 454-5227.

For press, email director @ mackinacisland.org

Classical Guitar Professor to Perform at Mackinac Island Music Festival

2011-07-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

Mackinac Island, MI-Classical guitarist and Olivet College Professor of Guitar Roger Humphrey will take us on a journey through the beautiful music of the Baroque era during the 7th Annual Mackinac Island Music Festival which is presented by Grey Goose, the world's best tasting vodka. He began playing classical guitar in 1958 at the age of 10 and began teaching guitar in 1967. .

Professor Humphrey plays baroque guitar flawlessly and expressively. He is adept at letting the music breathe between the notes which is iconic of the genre. "We are so fortunate to have a guitarist of his caliber living and sharing his talent on Mackinac Island each summer" say Mary McGuire, director of the festival. "I can't imagine a music festival on the Island without him." Professor Humphrey will perform at the Mackinac Island Public Library at 4pm, Thursday, August 18, 2011. Seating is limited, arriving early is suggested.

For more information:
Mackinac Island Music Festival
www.mackinacislandmusicfestival.org
(800) 454-5227

Carolyn Striho Performs at Mackinac Island Music Festival

2011-07-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

Mackinac Island, MI-Detroit Music Award winner Carolyn Striho joins the incredible roster of talent that will take over Mackinac Island during the 7th Annual Mackinac Island Music Festival. She will perform on Tuesday, August 16 at the Inn at Stonecliffe. Sharing the bill will be Audra Kubat and artist Mark Arminski.

It’s rare that anyone comes across a creative force like Carolyn Striho and realizes what they just experienced. Yet, the mention of her name to anyone in the Detroit music community evokes a storied musical tapestry that few could weave so well over the years, with colors and sounds so vivid that no one genre is worthy of containing.

To see her perform on stage is an experience all in itself. She’s far from your typical “girl with a piano” … one minute she’s got you mesmerized with the pulsating beats of her song “Ocean,” the next she’s got her right leg up on her keyboard, her black leather boot on the keys as she takes the audience to a completely different place. Carolyn’s vibrant, hypnotic mélange practically turns every room she plays into a rock-and-roll tribal sweat. Before you know it, she’s belting out a new song, heavy acoustic guitar in hand, you’re stomping your feet and — look now — she’s suddenly on her back on the stage, playing her guitar as though possessed by the spirit of the music.

So just who exactly is Carolyn Striho?

To Detroit audiophiles who have been around a while, she’s best known for her work with punk priestess Patti Smith and for fronting the late ‘80s/‘90s super group Detroit Energy Asylum. DEA had a lineup containing some of the best musicians in the business, including saxophonist David McMurray (Kid Rock), Luis Resto (Eminem), Vinnie Dombrowski (Sponge, Crud), and many others.

However, few of the most erudite Detroit music historians are aware of the breadth of Carolyn’s résumé, for she is perhaps one of her hometown’s most worldly artistic gems, hidden in plain sight.

Once a 16 year-old playing in punk bands in the seediest venues of Detroit’s musical underbelly, this classically-trained pianist and self-taught guitarist has since played Lollapalooza, Italy, the UK, and even Japan. Being both a close friend and musical colleague of Patti Smith, Carolyn has the distinction of being one of the few invited to perform at the prestigious Meltdown UK Festival (2005), curated by Smith. There, Carolyn opened for Steve Earle and shared the stage with the likes of Tori Amos, Sinead O’Connor, Marianne Faithful, Yoko Ono and others of such celebrated musical calibre.

Yet with all of the musicians Carolyn has collaborated with in the past, even when fronting bands whose music she composed, and even when close to signing record deals — something, somehow, always seemed to elude her from properly claiming the spotlight … until recently.

Perhaps it was keeping a sort of level head in pursuing her education while her bandmates chased their rockstar dreams … some of which have succeeded, others, tragically fallen … but three college degrees later, a helluva lot of perseverance, and that unique blend of Detroit heart, soul and elbow grease have earned Carolyn recent accolades of 30+ Detroit Music Award nominations since 2006, an honorable mention in the Billboard Magazine’s Songs of the Year (2009) for the cabaret-style crowd favorite, “Enchante,” and even the 2010 Detroit Music Award for “Outstanding Rock/Pop Album of the Year” for “Honesty.” She has been featured on National Public Radio, garnered regular airplay on radio stations on the East Coast and Denmark, and continues to be invited to some of the most prestigious festivals throughout the Midwest and overseas. Now Carolyn’s with guitarist Scott Dailey and band, continuing to attract even more attention with another European tour this Fall.

Today, it’s an understatement that this once teenaged punk playing in the clubs of Detroit has come quite a long way. With a new video in production, album in the works, and upcoming tours, Carolyn is living for now. Full-steam ahead and not looking back, Carolyn Striho continues to bulldoze her own amazing path. Her history is remarkable, yes, but it’s undeniable that her time is here.

"I've heard Carolyn perform in the Detroit scene and have followed her career across the globe. She is unmatched in her genre and it is our honor to have her play Mackinac Island" says festival coordinator and fellow musician Mary McGuire. "The show is dubbed "Heart of a Woman and will also feature Detroit Award Winning folk artist Audra Kubat who is a breathtaking artist that has captured the hearts of festivalgoers on Mackinac for the past two seasons." The show takes place at the glorious Inn at Stonecliffe located up Island and overlooking the straits of Mackinac. Drinks and dinner will be available at the Cudahy Chophouse at the Inn and horse drawn taxi service is available from downtown.

Details:
Mackinac Island Music Festival
www.mackinacislandmusicfestival.org
(800) 454-5227

Heart of a Woman
6pm-9pm, Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Performing Artists: Carolyn Striho & Audra Kubat
Artist in Residence: Mark Arminski
www.arminski.com

Location: Inn at Stonecliffe
www.theinnatstonecliffe.com
(906) 847-3355

Hotel Iroquois Wins Best Small Hotel Award

2011-07-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

Official Best Of is proud to be featuring Michigan’s top attractions on The Official Best Of Michigan 2011. The Official Best of Michigan will be aired on Saturday, July 9^thon WWJ/CBS Detroit at 12:30 pm and on Saturday, July 9^thon WBBM/CBS Chicago at 11:30 am. The attractions will then be featured on the popular Official Best Of travel website www.OfficialBestOf.com.

Awarded as The Official Best this year are:

Bay Mills Resort & Casino (Best Casino Resort)

Copper Peak Adventure Ride and Ski Flying (Best Adrenalin Rush)

Whiskers Resort & Pet Spa (Best Pet Resort)

Cosmetic Dentistry Institute (Best Cosmetic Dentistry)

Becker’s Bridal (Best Bridal Boutique)

Park West Gallery (Best Art Gallery)

Petoskey (Best Vacation Destination)

Hotel Iroquois (Best Small Hotel)

Niles (Best Main Street)

Marquette Country (Best Four Seasons Attraction)

The Official Best Of began in Missouri in 2006 and has spread to over 20 states across the country. The Official Best Of is based in Hollywood, CA and researchers in Hollywood and other parts of the country spend at least 2 months per state compiling collections of the very best attractions and destinations in each state. Once the research is complete and destinations are chosen in a state, a show is produced and aired. Each state’s show is promoted within that state as well as on a national level and each attraction is featured on the OfficialBestOf.com web site. One distinction that sets Official Best Of apart from many other travel sites is that it doesn't accept advertising on either its television programs or its website. The selection of attractions is entirely by merit, and lesser known but worthy attractions are given the same attention as famous ones. Viewers can use the tv airings and websites to plan day trips, outings and vacations.

Hotel Iroquois

www.iroquoishotel.com

906-847-3321

Yell “Huzzah!” for Vintage Base Ball

2011-06-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Experience the origin of the American game of baseball at 7:00 p.m. on July 7 on the large parade ground behind Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, where the Fort Mackinac Never Sweats and the Mackinaw City Boys face off in an exciting game of vintage base ball.

It will be a clash of titans as these two teams square up for a rematch. With the home-field advantage, the Never Sweats may have the upper hand. However, the Mackinaw City Boys did defeat the Fort Mackinac Never Sweats 7 to 4 the last time these two teams met in 2008. Vintage base ball is full of surprises...especially when the rules are unlike anything you’ve seen before.

This Vintage Base Ball game, which is not a re-enactment but an actual, competitive sporting event, is “base ball” as it was played in the

United States

Admission is free of charge to paid Fort Mackinac guests who visit on July 7 and to Mackinac Associates members. Contact Mackinac State Historic Parks at (906) 847-3328 or log on to MackinacParks.com/fort-mackinac/ for more information on the Vintage Base Ball Game.

# # #

Celebrate America's Independence on Mackinac Island

2011-06-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

On July 4, people from across the country will take a break from their hectic lives to indulge in the celebrationof America, and there’s no better place to pay tribute and have fun than at Fort Mackinac, an original Revolutionary-era fort. Fort Mackinac’s Independence Day events, the “Star Spangled Fourth of

July” and “An American Picnic,” combines fun and history with great food.

The uniqueness of this celebration will be immediately noticeable when stepping into the historic fort decorated in red, white, and blue. The “Star Spangled Fourth of July,” beginning with a concert of military and patriotic music, occurs at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Sing and clap along as interpreters, dressed as 1880’s American soldiers, play your favorite patriotic tunes on fife and bugle. “Historically, these are some of the things that would’ve happened in the time the soldiers were here,” said Katie Cederholm, MSHP curator of education. “Over one hundred years ago, this is how they celebrated.”

Following the military concert, Mackinac State Historic Parks (MSHP) interpreters and park guests will honor

America

and recognize those who served in our military. Veterans and active members of the military will be invited to gather on the parade ground as Girl Scouts raise a 20-by-38-foot American flag and historic interpreters fire a 38-gun salute — once for each state in the union in the 1880s. The “Star Spangled Fourth of July” celebration is included in regular Fort Mackinac admission, which is $10.50 for adults, $6.50 for youth ages 5-17, and free for children four and under and Mackinac Associates members.

The fun continues into the evening with Grand Hotel’s “An American Picnic,” held at 6:00 p.m. inside Fort Mackinac. At “An American Picnic,” dine on Grand Hotel’s baby-back ribs, grilled chicken breasts, hot dogs, hamburgers, and delicious treats while sitting on the parade ground on checkered picnic blankets or at nearby tables. Costumed interpreters will engage you in fun, Victorian-era dances and games throughout the evening while live dinner music plays.

Tickets for this Independence Day feast, which can be purchased at Grand Hotel and the Mackinac Island State Park Visitor’s Center on Main (Huron) Street across from Marquette Park, are priced at $44.00 for adults, $22.00 for children ages 5 to 17, and free for children ages 4 and under if purchased prior to 6:00 p.m. on July 4. Prices increase if purchased after 6:00 p.m. Admission to Fort Mackinac is included in the ticket. Mackinac Associates’ tickets are $33.50 for adults and $16.00 for youth ages 5-17.

Many agree that there’s no better place to celebrate with your family than among the fun and excitement of Fort Mackinac. “Fort Mackinac, being Michigan’s only original Revolutionary War fort, is the ideal place in Michigan, if not the entire Midwest, to celebrate the Fourth of July because of its heritage,” said Greg Hokans, MSHP chief of development and marketing. “Because of what Fort Mackinac represents — first a British fort, then after the Revolutionary War, an American fort, it symbolizes that reason we celebrate the fourth of July as Americans.”

In addition, by attending “An American Picnic,” guests are able to take in the beauty of the Straits of Mackinac while watching the spectacular display of the Mackinac Island fireworks show from Fort Mackinac, set on a bluff towering 150 feet over Lake Huron.

For more information about the Fourth of July Celebration at Fort Mackinac, call (906) 847-3328.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at www.MackinacParks.com.

# # #

Mackinac Island Yacht Club Regatta Schedule

2011-06-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2011 - The Pink Pony Fourth of July Regatta

This annual event sponsored by the Pink Pony and Chippewa Hotel, is open to all sailboats. This is a fun, family event with prizes awarded to each participating boat. There is no entry fee. An awards party following the race is held on the outside deck of the Pink Pony. The Skippers Meeting will be held at Mackinac Island Yacht Club at 12:30 PM with a race start at 2:00 PM.

July 20, 2011 - Round The Island Race - Chicago Mac Race Week

Mackinac Island Yacht Club will be hosting the Fourth Annual Round The Island Race. The first start will be at 1:00 PM. This race will be a fun event open to all boats. Boats may sail either all out or jib and main. Afterward, please join us at Windermere Point for the Awards Ceremony, food, drinks and lots of fun, camaraderie, and stories. Awards will include brag flags and trophies for class winners. The Madigan Trophy will be presented to the first overall monohull.

The race is sponsored and supported by Mackinac Island businesses and merchants. The entry fee of $60 will cover race registration, the family and crew party on Windermere Point, and free dockage on Wednesday night, courtesy of Arnold Transit. To learn more and to sign up, go to www.miyachtclub.com.

July 21- 23, 2011 - Mackinac Island to Manitoulin Island International Yacht Race

The 8th Annual Mackinac to Manitoulin Race starts off Mackinac Island on Thursday, July 21. The first leg of the MacMan Challenge takes racers to Gore Bay. There is an overnight layover in Gore Bay, with dinner and awards for the first leg. The final short leg of the race to Little Current will take place on July 23. Both communities provide a great deal of warm hospitality, parties and a fun racing venue. Enjoy the post-race party on Saturday, July 23, hosted by Little Current Yacht Club. From here, you can leisurely cruise back through the picturesque North Channel of Canada and Manitoulin Island. To learn more go to www.lcyc.ca

September 4, 2011 - Horns Bar Labor Day Regatta

The annual Horns Bar Labor Day Regatta takes racers through the round the Island course. It is a fun event open to sailboats of all classes. There is no entry fee. An awards ceremony and party will be held following the race at Mackinac Island Yacht Club courtesy of Horns Bar and the Yankee Rebel Restaurant. The Skippers Meeting will be held at Mackinac Island Yacht Club at 2:00 PM with a race start at 3:00 PM.

For more information, click on www.miyachtclub.com or www.mackinacisland.org

Fingerweaving, Wildcrafting, and 1830s Cooking and Crafting Instruction Offered through new Mackinac Art Museum

2011-05-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

Fingerweaving, Wildcrafting, and 1830s Cooking and Crafting Instruction Offered through new Mackinac Art Museum

Mackinac Island, MI - Historic domestic art classes are now offered through the new Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum at the Indian Dormitory on Mackinac Island, bringing hands-on visitor experiences to yet another level. Fingerweaving classes are offered at the art museum at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 21 and Saturday, May 28. An 1830s cooking and crafts instruction will be held at the Biddle House on Mackinac Island at 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 21 and Saturday, June 4. A wildcrafting tour will be offered at 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 28 and Saturday, June 4. All events require preregistration, and spots are limited. Call Katie Cederholm, Mackinac State Historic Parks curator of education, at (906) 847-3328 to reserve.

Participants will explore the art of fingerweaving at this special class within the art museum. Taught by experienced craftswoman and historic interpreter, LeeAnn Ewer, the class, which lasts approximately two hours, will offer individualized attention, as it’s limited to six participants. Written background information on the craft, as well as other relevant reading materials, are included in the hands-on course. Yarn and figerweaving tools will also be provided for use. “The participants will make garters,” Ewer said, “which historically served as arm bands to hold up sleeves and as sock bands to hold up socks. They also have many modern days uses, such as purse straps.” Wool yarn will be provided at the class, although, as noted by Ewer, synthetic yarn will also be available for those will wool allergies. The cost for the class is $20 per person.

Participants of the cooking and crafts class at the Biddle House, located on Market Street, will experience domestic life of the 1830s. Opportunities will be available for quilting, cooking, candle making, and other crafts. Educators will not only offer the experiences, but explain why and how the Biddle family, who lived in the house in the 1830s, quilted and used herbs in cooking and medicine. Participants will also learn the techniques of open hearth cooking by making bread, tea, and other food common to the time period.

“It’s a special after-hours program that most visitors in the fall don’t get to see because the Biddle House is closed at that point. The hands-on aspect makes it unique, and guests also get to take something home, such as a candle,” says Cederholm. The opportunity, which is limited to eight people for greater one-on-one instruction and hands-on participation, lasts 2 hours, and is available for $25 per person.

Participants of the wildcrafting tour will meet at the Mackinac Art Museum and tour aroundMackinac Island to learn history, lore, and traditional uses of native plants with Historic Interpreter, Amy Pavlov. Those on the tour will need to be able to walk on trails and roads onMackinac Island. They will also be given notebooks to record their findings and keep recipes and instructions on what to do with the plants they can take home and use in nature walks near them.

“There are many uses for different plants on the island; some medicial, some culinary, and some functional. It’s fun to see what you can use in your backyard for salves, teas, and herbs,” says Pavlov. The opportunity, which is limited to fifteen people, lasts 2.5 hours, and is available for $20 per person.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at www.MackinacParks.com.

# # #

Local Residents Receive 50-Cent Admission to Mackinac State Historic Parks May 7-8

2011-04-26T13:31:00.001-07:00

Local Residents Receive 50-Cent Admission to Mackinac State Historic Parks May 7-8

Mackinac Island, Mich. — On Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8, Mackinac State Historic Parks (MSHP), in appreciation of its neighbors from the Straits of Mackinac, will offer local residents admission into many of its nature and historic parks at 1958 rates, once again proving its commitment to affordability and value. For only 50-cents for adults and 25-cents for youth ages 5-17, visitors can enjoy the many features of Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City and Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island. Children four and under are admitted free. Local residents from Emmet, Mackinac and Cheboygan counties can take advantage of these special visitor appreciation rates.

The park-naturalist guided Adventure Tour at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, which includes the Forest Canopy Bridge, sponsored by Mackinac Associates, the Eagle’s Flight Zip Line, and the Nature Trail Climbing Wall, costs $7 in addition to the discounted park admission.

Regular admission to Fort Mackinac and Colonial Michilimackinac is $10.50 for adults and $6.50 for youth (5-17). Rates for Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park are $8.00 for adults and $4.75 for youth (5-17). Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse admission is normally $6.00 for adults and $4.00 for youth (5-17).

Colonial Michilimackinac and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park open for the season on Wednesday, May 4, and Fort Mackinac, on Mackinac Island, opens on Thursday, May 5. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse opens Saturday, May 7.

Seats Still Left for War of 1812 Historic Sites Tour

2011-04-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Post Cemetery, Mackinac Island State Park

Lansing, Mich. – If you’re interested in the historic opportunity to visit dozens of War of 1812 sites around the Great Lakes with other War of 1812 enthusiasts, you’re in luck. Some seats are still open for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but the registration deadline is fast approaching.
For ten days in July, experience the Great Lakes War of 1812 Historic Sites Motorcoach Tour, sponsored by the Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Michigan Council for History Education, a K-University teacher organization.

From July 16 to July 25, 2011, registered participants will visit strategic War of 1812 historic sites in states and provinces around the Great Lakes, hearing historic commentary throughout the tour by War of 1812 Commissioner Dr. Jim McConnell.
“This tour provides a great opportunity to visit many fascinating and important Great Lakes historic sites related to the War of 1812,” said Phil Porter, commission chairman and director of Mackinac State Historic Parks.

Fort Mackinac Blockhouse, Mackinac Island

Stops include River Raisin Battlefield National Park, Michigan; Fort Meigs, Fort Stephenson, and the Perry Memorial on Put-in-Bay, Ohio; the Niagara replica in Erie, Pennsylvania; and many key sites near Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario. Also in Ontario, tour participants will be entertained at the Brock Monument, the Battlefield of Lundy’s Lane, Fort Erie, the Battlefield of Stoney Creek, historic Fort York, the ship, Nancy, and Fort St. Joseph, the site where the British launched their successful attack on American-held Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, Michigan. A full day on Mackinac Island, with a special tour of Fort Mackinac, will culminate the activities. Fort Mackinac saw the first battle on U.S. Territory during the War of 1812.
“Visits to these sites will provide visitors with a better understanding and appreciation of this important historical event and its impact on the history of these Great Lakes states and the province of Ontario,” said Porter.

The price, which includes lodging, most meals, and admission to more than thirty historic sites, is $1,812. For a detailed tour brochure or more information, email McConnell at jam1776@sbcglobal.net or visit www.michigan.gov/war1812.
The Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 is charged with encouraging, planning, and developing activities, events, programs, observances and services appropriate to commemorate Michigan's role in the War of 1812. More information can be found at www.michigan.gov/war1812.
"The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, and accessible use and enjoyment of the state's environment, natural resources, and related economic interests for current and future generations."

Media Contact:
Jolene Priest, 231-436-4100
Mackinac State Historic Parks, an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Watch Out! “Ghastly Mackinac” Dates Released and Prowling Mackinac Island

2011-04-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

Fort Mackinac courtesy of Mackinac Design

Mackinac Island, MI — They’re ghastly, grotesque, and just released! The 2011 event dates for the popular “Ghastly Mackinac” evening event at Fort Mackinac are now out and prowling the palisade. Following are the event dates, which run from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.: June 25, June 29, July 9, July 13, July 16, July 20, July 27, August 3, August 6, and August 10.

Over 115 years of death, disease, and deranged discipline have left its eerie mark within this stone fortress, leaving behind stories of truth that are much stranger than fiction. During “Ghastly Mackinac,” tour the very places where catastrophe and death occurred nearly 200 years before.

“The cliché that truth is stranger than fiction holds true with this event,” said Katie Cederholm, MSHP curator of education and “Ghastly Mackinac” event organizer. “The eerie talks, gory stories, and unbelievable situations you’ll encounter are all based on research and true happenings.”

While hearing about the 1829 Christmas mutiny against Lt. Ephraim K. Smith, walk the fort parade ground where it really happened. Smith, a mean-spirited officer, had taken the law into his own hands many times throughout the fall and winter of 1829, viciously punishing several soldiers by flogging and beating them until, as he’d said to his victims, “(you) look pleasant or smile.” On Christmas day of that year, when the other fort officers had left the fort for a Christmas dinner party in the village, 25 enlisted men, all from Smith’s company, appeared armed on the parade ground. As you envision the snow and cold of that blustery Christmas day, discover what happened to the sadistic Smith and the group of soldiers who’d had enough.

“People lived here, visited here, and died here,” Cederholm said, “and there’s a lot more to tell beyond the basic facts. There are hidden truths that lurk behind these stone fort walls.”

Set on a hill above the parade ground is the elegant Officers’ Hill Quarters, a two-story home that housed officers, their families, and other important persons. Step inside the home and soak up the beauty, but don’t get too comfortable. Look past the picturesque table setting, the piano, and fine furniture, look past the feeling of peace and tranquility, to the truth that conspired within these walls. Discover the death and sadness that enveloped the home. It was here that Lt. Calvin Cowles and his family lived during his two separate tenures of the fort. Each time he lived at the home, he lost a child. First it was four-month-old Josiah, and later, two-year-old Isabelle. Look further into the house for testimony of its occupation by Rev. O’Brien and his wife, Charlotte. She died here as well, long before her time. Feel their stories during this special event.

In the nearby Post Hospital, hear tales of cholera and influenza epidemics, accidents, and the gory methods of treatment…medical cases and untimely deaths that happened in this very building.

Inside the dark, cool Guardhouse, imagine the fear and horror felt by Private James Brown in 1829 as he walked these floors. He’d been accused of murder for shooting Corporal Hugh Flynn in the mess hall before fifteen witnesses, but had held fast to his claim that it’d been an accident until the day he was executed by hanging...the only known hanging on Mackinac Island.

These stories and more await your attention, your presence, and your ghostly imagination. Are you ready to face the ghastly truth?

“These events were very popular last year,” Cederholm said. “Because of this, I encourage everyone to call as soon as possible. These events are usually sold out weeks in advance.”

Reservation are required, and can be made beginning today by calling Katie at (231) 436-4100. Beginning May 4, reservations can be made by calling April or Katie at (906) 847-3328. Spaces are limited. Admission is $30 families, $10 adult, $5 youth ages five to 17, and free for children 4 and under.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at www.MackinacParks.com.

# # #

All Aboard! Bell's Sponsors the Bayview Yacht Club's Mackinac Rade

2011-03-31T07:20:00.000-07:00

Bell's Beer Signs on as Title Sponsor for the 2011 Bayview Yacht Club Mackinac Race

DETROIT, MI - Detroit's Bayview Yacht Club, one of the most storied and historical sailing clubs in the world, announced today that Bell's Brewery - a major beer producer and the largest based in Michigan -- has come aboard as the title sponsor Bayview's 2011 Port Huron to Mackinac Race.

The officially titled "Bell's Beer Bayview Mackinac Race" sets sail on Saturday, July 23, 2011, in Southern Lake Huron, just north of the Blue Water Bridge.

This year will mark 87 consecutive years for the world-class event. Some 200 plus sailboats and 2,500 sailors take part in the annual regatta with an estimated 100,000 sailing fans and families attending the festive activities in Port Huron leading to the Saturday start. For the third time, sailing fans around the world will be able to follow individual boats or the entire fleet on the Bell's Brewery and Bayview Yacht Club websites as Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices will be placed on all participating sailboats. In 2010, a record 4.4 million page views were hit on the web site during the race.

"This race is iconic to the State of Michigan and one of its greatest traditions, and we at Bell's Brewery are thrilled to be a part of this phenomenal event," said Larry J. Bell, President and Founder of Bell's Brewery, Inc. based in Comstock, MI. Bell's produces some 170,000 barrels of beer each year and distributes its products to 18 states.

Bell's, the largest brewery in Michigan, is well known for its famed summer "Oberon" wheat ale and "Two-Hearted Ale" among many other premium and specialty brands. Bell's has been a Bayview Mackinac Race sponsor since 2009. Pure Michigan, the state's travel bureau was the previous title sponsor and the Bayview Mackinac Race is the only event Pure Michigan sponsored in the state.

"This race is unique to the Midwest and is the longest continuously run freshwater race in the world. It features sailing in the Great Lakes and showcases the natural beauty and fresh water resources that are unique to Michigan," said Bell "We welcome sailboats and racing teams from Chicago and around the world for this grand event that marks the height of a Michigan summer."

"Bayview is absolutely thrilled to have a Michigan-based company with the high quality reputation of Bell's Beer as the title sponsor for our great race," said John C. Burke, Commodore, Bayview Yacht Club. "Many sailors here and throughout the country are familiar with Bell's Beer and their brands are becoming as iconic as this race. We welcome the Bell team's support and look forward to a fantastic year."

"The Bayview Yacht Club web site, www.byc.com, generally draws a million page views for the race; up to 10 million page views are expected to hit the www.bellsbeer.com site where the GPS tracking link for the 2011 race will be located", said 2011 Race Chairman Charlie Elmer.

"For fans and spectators we are excited to be able to use the GPS race tracking technology to bring this race to their laptops and phones for those who cannot join us for the majestic experience of being in Port Huron for the pageantry of the race start," said Elmer. "This is one of the most challenging and exciting sailboat races in the world on one of the most unpredictable bodies of fresh water in the world."

From its traditional start in Southern Lake Huron, the fleet will head North on one of two courses. The shorter course, called the "Shore Course," covers 204 nautical miles (252 statute miles) along the Michigan shoreline before heading west to Mackinac Island Bell's Beer finish line. The longer "Cove Island Course" is 259 nautical miles (298 statute miles) and takes the sailors around a buoy off the tip of the Bruce Peninsula in Canadian waters before heading West toward the Bell's Beer finish line at Mackinac Island.

Commodore Burke, an "Old Goat" veteran of 34 races, said the world-class sailboat race is "steeped in generations of sportsmanship and family tradition that touches everyone who lives here or who has ever sailed the Great Lakes."

An estimated 100,000 fans on both the U.S. and Canadian shores will cheer the sailboats as they make their way up the St. Clair River from Port Huron - with flags and pennants flying - in a spectacular nautical parade to the starting area that takes place about five miles from the Blue Water Bridge.

"I would like to extend our appreciation for the sailors, their families, friends and the staff of Bayview for all that they do to make this event such a success. I congratulate the Mackinac 2011 Race Chairman, Charlie Elmer, for an amazing job in getting this race organized and setting the stage for a safe race on two courses," said Commodore Burke.

Bayview Yacht Club, founded in 1915, is widely regarded as the premier sailing club in Michigan and the Midwest. It has been hosting the Bayview Mackinac Race since 1925. The private club is located on the Detroit River near the mouth of Lake St. Clair and has more than 1,000 members. For more information: www.byc.com.

Bell's Brewery celebrated its 25 anniversary in Michigan in September 2010. At that event Larry Bell, owner of Bell's Brewery, announced a $52 million investment over the next five years. For More information on Bell's Beer please visit: www.bellsbeer.com.

Approximately $17 million will be invested in 2011 to expand the Comstock Township plant, adding 24 new 400-barrel fermenters, a 200-barrel brew house, a new employee care area as well as space and equipment for some new specialty fermentations. An additional $35 million will be spent through 2016 to further develop the brewery's Comstock Township facility.

Bell's Brewery is quickly outpacing the definition of a regional brewer and consumer demand for its high-quality beers are exceeding current production capacities prior to the expansion/ This $52 million investment by Bell's Brewery's is targeted toward meeting consumer demand and a multi-year trend of twenty percent growth annually.

Bell began brewing beer as a lone entrepreneur 25 years ago in a 15-gallon soup kettle. Bell's Brewery is one of the few craft breweries to remain under original ownership.

********************************************************************

Media inquiries on the 87th sailing of the Bell's Beer Bayview Mackinac Race or any Bayview Yacht Club issues should be directed to Bruce Babiarz at Babiarz@BABPR.com or 248-890-5030.

###

Ghost Hunters To Air Mackinac Island Episode

2011-03-11T16:46:00.000-08:00

Steve Gonsalves, Adam Berry, Ami Bruni and Dave Tango from Ghost Hunters
with Island resident Lori Jaruzel at Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub

Mission Point Resort is known for many things; the Moral ReArmament's center for world peace, it's collegiate past as Mackinac College, today's vacation mecca and loads and loads of reports from guests, employees and Islanders about the hotel’s fabled ghost, Harvey.

Jason Hawes & Grant Wilson, the lead investigators, along with 15 other members from the Syfy Channel’s Ghost Hunters show moved into the resort for over 10 days this past January to do some serious paranormal investigating. "Filming in the winter was the least disruptive time of the year and provided a greater opportunity to investigate paranormal activity reported about Harvey over the years", said Patrick Powell, story producer for the cable show that is produced by Pilgrim Films and Television of North Hollywood, California. “Due to the weather and population at this time of year, the lack of potential interference is another reason among many where the filming on Mackinac Island at Mission Point Resort will be unique,” said Mr. Powell who is from Michigan himself and very familiar with Mackinac Island.

Mission Point Resort's Straits Lodge where the cast and crew

of the SyFy Channel's Ghost Hunters lived while

filming on Mackinac Island.

Many eyewitness interviews took place at Mission Point Resort and they did extensive investigation work with Haunts of Mackinac author Todd Clements. Mission Point's Pat Driscoll assisted by sharing the visitor and employee stories over the decades. Musician Pete Kehoe was interviewed about his time as musical director of the resort as his residence was one of the places that many claims had been made over the years about paranormal activity that many related to the illustrious Harvey. Mary McGuire Slevin, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, provided information about the history of Mission Point Resort and a history of Mackinac Island for the producers. The maintenance crew at Mission Point Resort showed the cast and crew around the hotel as often as needed during their stay. Temperatures hovered around zero on the Island and because it is seasonal, most of the resort was closed down for the winter, which created some interesting circumstances for the cast and crew.

The episode "Frozen in Fear" will air at 9pm, Wednesday, March 30, 2011 on the SyFy Channel.

To keep up on the happenings, click on the Island's official Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/mackinacislandtourismbureau

Mackinac Island June Events 2011

2011-02-15T14:41:00.001-08:00

June Ongoing

Richard Wolfgang: A Life of Painting
Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Island Art Museum www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Wolfgang has been selling his art for most of his adult life and has taught art and photography for thirty-four years at Flushing High School near Flint. His Island gallery is visited by many former students who have been mentored by Wolfgang in their own artistic careers. He is exhibited throughout the Midwest and has won many awards. His original paintings hang in private collections across the United States, Canada, and Europe.

June 1-4
Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce Mackinac Policy Conference
Grand Hotel www.grandhotel.com
(800) 33GRAND
The Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce is the largest chamber in the United States. Each summer, the Mackinac Policy Conference historically begins the Wednesday following the Memorial Day holiday. Business leaders from around the globe come together at Grand Hotel to help shape the future of Detroit and to discuss topics ranging from job creation to regional transportation and the key reforms needed for the state of Michigan.

June 8
Michigan Governor's Summer Residence Tours
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Over 100 years old, the Michigan Governor's Summer Residence has functioned as a summer home for nine Michigan governors and their families dating to 1943. Enjoy a rare look inside the 1902 cottage on this free tour overlooking Mackinac Island's harbor. The tour runs from 9:30am-11:30am and is free to all.

June 10-19
62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
Great Turtle Festivals www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org
(800) 454-5227
Celebrating Mackinac's lilac collection began in 1949 after a conversation with Evangilene Horn and Nurse Stella King who encouraged the then teen and today's Mackinac Island Carriage Tours veterinarian Dr. Bill Chambers to have a parade on Lilac Sunday. The idea was to bring people to the Island to enjoy a great horse drawn parade amidst the lovely lilacs that fragrance the Island in June. What began as a one day event called the Mackinac Island Lilac Day has blossomed into a ten day festival...click here for the official festival website.

June 11
Mackinac Island Downtown Historic Buildings open for the season
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Mackinac's 19th-century fur trade community comes to life at the Biddle House, American Fur Company Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum, and the McGulpin House. See a blacksmith demonstrate his or her trade at the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and cooking and craft demonstrations at Biddle House. June 11-August 20

June 15
Michigan Governor's Summer Residence Tours
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Over 100 years old, the Michigan Governor's Summer Residence has functioned as a summer home for nine Michigan governors and their families dating to 1943. Enjoy a rare look inside the 1902 cottage on this free tour overlooking Mackinac Island's harbor. The tour runs from 9:30am-11:30am and is free to all.

June 18
Mackinac Associates G.Mennen Williams Mackinac Celebration
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
A special event for members of Mackinac Associates which includes a tour and cocktail reception at one of Mackinac Island's bluff cottages followed by dinner at Grand Hotel. Reservations required.

June 22
Michigan Governor's Summer Residence Tours
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Over 100 years old, the Michigan Governor's Summer Residence has functioned as a summer home for nine Michigan governors and their families dating to 1943. Enjoy a rare look inside the 1902 cottage on this free tour overlooking Mackinac Island's harbor. The tour runs from 9:30am-11:30am and is free to all.

June 29
Michigan Governor's Summer Residence Tours
Mackinac State Historic Parks www.mackinacparks.com
(906) 847-3328
Over 100 years old, the Michigan Governor's Summer Residence has functioned as a summer home for nine Michigan governors and their families dating to 1943. Enjoy a rare look inside the 1902 cottage on this free tour overlooking Mackinac Island's harbor. The tour runs from 9:30am-11:30am and is free to all.

My Fizzy Valentine

2011-02-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

Romance and great cocktails go hand in hand. Here is our pick for the upcoming day of love:

My Fizzy Valentine
1 part Creme de Cassis
5 parts Fizz Sparkling Wine by L. Mawby Vineyards

Pour the cassis into a wine glass, top with Fizz, garnish with a fresh strawberry and serve.

www.mackinacislandrestaurantweek.org

Mackinac Island’s Festival Express Concert Rolls into the Motor City

2011-02-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

Audra Kubat, Billy Brandt & Barbara Payton

Mackinac Island has been known as a gathering place for centuries and musicians from across the country will gather at the Magic Bag Theatre in Ferndale, Michigan to reprise the mega-concert Festival Express as a benefit for the Mackinac Island Music Festival.

The 1970 mega concert/rockumentary "Festival Express" was a multi-band, multi-day extravaganza that captured the spirit and imagination of a generation and a nation. Musicians included Janis Joplin, The Band, Grateful Dead, Buddy Guy, Traffic, Sha Na Na and more. It is considered "one of the best performance films of all time" by Hollywood Reporter. The traveling show highlighted several points in the transitioning effects of music in the post-idealism of the late 60s and bands that were notably at the top of their game during this important musical era. The tour was filmed in its entirety, from the acoustic jams on the train cars to the stage shows and featured what is considered some of the most legendary performances by the Grateful Dead, The Band, Janis Joplin and Buddy Guy, among others. Rolling Stone has heralded Festival Express as “one of the most important rockumentaries of all time.”

Chordiology with Forbes Brothers

Award winning Acapella group Chordiology will open the show with the Forbes Brothers showing the revival of 50’s rock and roll by taking on the high energy work of Sha Na Na. They are the recipients of the Pioneer District Barbershop Quartet competition and rightfully so. George Friend will showcase his blues guitar skills by interpreting Buddy Guy and Detroit Music Award Winning Veterans Billy Brandt, Sarana VerLin and Jill Jack show the transition from traditional folk music to Americana as we know it today by taking on the music of the Grateful Dead as well as Ian & Sylvia. Appropriately the recipient of the Detroit Music Award for best folk artist, Audra Kubat beautifully illustrates the folk movement of the 60’s by adding her signature style to Canadian singer/songwriter Eric Anderson’s compositions. Island Musician & Detroit Metro X Music Award Winner presents her new band Thunder Chiefs feat. Mary Gary Rasmussen, Nino Dmytryszyn and JC Whitelaw who will move the show into the realm of psychedelia by interpreting the music Traffic. Barbara Payton, of Bob Seger’s Silver Bullet Band and Kid Rock’s Rock & Roll Jesus Band will take on the music of Janis Joplin as only she can. Her bluesy vocal style is pure Detroit and her interpretation of Janis is not to be missed. The Forbes Brothers, recipients of over 25 Detroit Music Awards, will present and explore the country rock movement perfected by The Band & the Grateful Dead and close the show with a big finale featuring everyone from the show.

Drummers Dave Jack & Nino Dmytryszyn

Festival director Mary McGuire shares "performing with friends immersed in the beauty of Mackinac Island makes the Mackinac Island Music Festival something special. But, to be able to take it on the road to Detroit, where we all learned music and were deeply influenced by the musical culture of Detroit is an honor.” She adds, “Having the show at the Magic Bag where we have been able express ourselves for decades is also very special. The stage is great, the sound is excellent and the staff is amazing. As musicians, we have all been fortunate to have Jeremy Haberman (Magic Bag Theatre owner) believe in us and provide such a great venue to support local artists."

The show is Saturday, March 5, doors open at 8pm. Tickets are now on sale at the Magic Bag Box Office and via www.ticketweb.com (http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=3478745)

---XXX---

Musicians Performing:

Forbes Brothers (feat. Scott Forbes, Dennis Forbes, Ronnie Jacobs, Tom Hollyer, George Canterbury, Jon Ross & Dave Jack) www.forbesbrothers.net

Chordiology (feat. Cliff Dake, Dave Spizarny, Paul Ellinger, Rob Pettigrew)

www.chordiology.com

Jill Jack (Jill Jack Band, Forbes Brothers)

www.jilljack.com

Audra Kubat (Stunning Amazon)

www.myspace.com/kubataudra

Mary McGuire (Ash Can Van Gogh, Spiral Dance, Blood Sisters)

www.marymcguire.com

Barbara Payton (Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Blood Sisters)

www.barbarapayton.com

Sarana VerLin (Dark Carnival, Natasha)

www.saranaverlin.com

Billy Brandt (Grievous Angel, High Flying Bird, Ash Can Van Gogh)

www.billybrandt.net

George Friend (Twistin’ Tarantulas, Sun Messengers, Thornetta Davis, Robert Gordon) www.myspace.com/georgefriend

Gary Rasmussen (Blue Stone Project, Sonic Rendezvous, Scott Morgan, Iggy Pop, Patti Smith, THE UP, White Chili, GRR)

www.myspace.com/bluestoneproject

JC Whitelaw (Broken Toys, Jill Jack, Forbes Brothers, Ash Can Van Gogh) www.facebook.com/jc.whitelaw

Nino Dmytryszyn (Bell Tower, Jill Jack, Ash Can Van Gogh) www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1522180545

Charlie Springer (Springer, Irish & Eversol)

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1808172147

About the Mackinac Island Music Festival:

The Mackinac Music Festival began as a one-day event, and in 2006 expanded to a three-day festival as an outcome of past popularity and success. The festival has found considerable recognition since its beginnings, and has become one of Mackinac Island's most exciting festivals of the season. Created to bring a wide variety of musical opportunities to Mackinac Island, The Mackinac Island Music Festival has presented concerts at various Island locations that have included prestigious local, statewide and nationally acclaimed artists covering a wide range of musical genres including folk, rock, pop, bluegrass, jazz and classical.
<!--[endif]-->

For more information visit: www.mackinacislandmusicfestival.org

Contact:

Mackinac Island Music Festival

director@mackinacisland.org

(800) 454-5227

The Arrival-A Documentary of the Chicago Yacht Club's Race to Mackinac

2011-01-31T09:47:00.000-08:00

Chicago Yacht Club is proud to share 'The Arrival' - a documentary on the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac produced by Chicago Yacht Club's year-round sponsor and presenting sponsor of the Mac, Veuve Clicquot. 'The Arrival' documents the Mac and its relationship with Veuve Clicquot Champagne. See the Chicago Yacht Club's homepage for a low resolution stream.

This video is also featured on Veuve Clicquot's website vcseason.com and for those who want to download the HD version, 'The Arrival' may be viewed here: www.vimeo.com/16450604'

Calling all Geocachers for the 5th Annual Spring Fling on Mackinac Island

2011-01-31T08:26:00.000-08:00

Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers with GPS devices. The idea is to locate a hidden container called a geocache and share the experiences of finding it online. This navigation sport is enjoyed by people from around the world who have a strong sense of community and support for the environment.

The Cyclops family has about 90 caches on the island, many of which have been placed in remote areas of the island where tourists would not normally go. It is advisable to bring your bike, as the cache locations will take you traveling several miles around the perimeter and interior of the island.

Most island businesses are closed at this time of year, but a few restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and retail shops will be open. this gives everyone a sneak peak at Mackinac Island in the winter/spring season before everything gets back to full swing

Some of the interior roads can be quite difficult to navigate, so be careful if you have small children with you. Either download the Mackinac Island Map or pick one up at the Tourism Bureau office across the street from Arnold Line Ferry. The one available at the information booth is printed on a glossy paper and holds up fairly well when repeatedly tucked in and out of a pocket or caching bag.

Details
http://www.tmrl.net/Geocaching/Events/GC2M4PJ/Index.htm

Chili Cookoff & Postcard Poker Scenic Ski Walk Rally

2011-01-31T07:43:00.000-08:00

Village Inn

17^th Annual

Chili Cook-Off and

Postcard Poker Scenic Ski, Walk Rally

Saturday February 12^th

CHILI COOK OFF

The Village Inn will again host the 17th Annual Mackinac Island Chili Cookoff on Saturday, February 12, 2011. Chili tasting will take place from noon to 4pm at Village Inn on Hoban Street. Just purchase a scorecard at the door for $6 and you are the judge. Vote for your favorites and enjoy the delicious chili entries prepared by local chefs, or island & visiting gourmets. Scores will be tallied by 5pm, winners announced and prizes awarded. If you would like to enter the competition, please visit the Village Inn website for details, www.viofmackinac.com.

POSTCARD POKER SCENIC SKI/WALK RALLY

Register at Village Inn between 9am and noon on Saturday, February 12, 2011, there is no registration fee and skiers of all levels are welcome. Because it isn't a race, just take your time and walk or ski at your own pace so you can enjoy the view of Arch Rock, Fort Holmes, Fort Mackinac, Sugar Loaf, Skull Cave and the Island's winter Boreal Forest while collecting Postcards along the way. Bring your postcards back to the Village Inn by 4pm and winners will be announced at 5pm. This event supports the Mackinac Island Ski Club.

Michigan Students Participate in National Program to Boost School Performance and Job Skills

2011-01-31T07:33:00.000-08:00

New Research Shows National History Day Participants Are

Better Able to Succeed in School and Learn Skills to

Become Informed Citizens, Sought-After Employees

Lansing, Michigan – Students who participate in the National History Day (NHD) educational program, coordinated as Michigan History Day by the Historical Society of Michigan, perform better on high-stakes tests, are better writers, more confident and capable researchers, and have a more mature perspective on current events and civic engagement than their peers, according to the first national evaluation of the widely used curricular program. Participants also show a greater ability to collaborate with peers, manage their time, and persevere – all skills employers say are lacking in today’s workforce.

For more than 20 years, the Historical Society of Michigan has run Michigan History Day, coordinating the regional and state-level competitions and providing support for teachers and students throughout the school year. This year, more than 5,000 students from around the state are taking part in Michigan History Day.

Major sponsors of Michigan History Day include Meijer Inc., The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation, The Cook Charitable Foundation, and Amway Inc. One by One Campaign for Children.

“Over the past two decades, our staff has witnessed the profound impact that History Day has on students across Michigan,” commented Executive Director Larry J. Wagenaar. “This program is one of the best tools educators have to encourage additional growth in critical thinking, research, literacy, communication, and other skills with their students.”

Michigan History Day is a year-long academic program for elementary and secondary school students focused on historical research, interpretation, and creative expression. Students who participate in this academic competition become writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights, and artists as they create unique contemporary expressions of history.

Michigan’s state coordinator for History Day, Emily Asbenson, noted that “It’s encouraging to see the study confirm what we’ve known for years: that students who participate in Michigan History Day develop the confidence, curiosity, and self-direction to be successful in both their education and the workplace.”

The full report, National History Day Works, is available at www.nhd.org/NHDWorks. Some of the important findings include:

NHD students outperform their non-NHD peers on state standardized tests, not only in social studies, but in reading, science, and math as well. For example,

In 2008-2009 in Texas, twice as many NHD students achieved “commended performance” as non-NHD students (87 percent vs. 37 percent) on the social studies assessment of the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS).
At a South Carolina middle school where NHD was part of the curriculum for all eighth graders, students scored higher than students in a non-NHD middle school on the Language Arts, Math, and Science segments of the 2008-09 South Carolina Palmetto Assessment of State Standards (PASS) test.

NHD students are better writers, who write with a purpose and real voice, and marshal solid evidence to support their point of view. NHD students outscored comparison-group students on both pre- and post-writing assessments, receiving more high scores (five or six) on a six point scale. NHD essays had more sentence variety, richer vocabulary, a more authentic voice, and better organization.

NHD students are critical thinkers who can digest, analyze, and synthesize information. Performance assessments show that NHD students overall were significantly better than their peers at interpreting historical information, with an average of 79 percent vs. 61 percent correct.

NHD students learn 21^st century skills. They learn how to collaborate with team members, talk to experts, manage their time, and persevere.

NHD has a positive impact among students whose interests in academic subjects may wane in high school. Analyses show that among black and Hispanic students, NHD students outperform non-NHD students, posting higher performance assessment scores and levels of interests and skills. Compared to non-NHD boys, and to all girls, boys participating in NHD reported significantly higher levels of interest in history, civic engagement, and confidence in research skills, on both pre- and post-surveys.

Conducted by San Francisco-based research firm Rockman, et al, the study looked at performance assessments, surveys, and standardized test scores to evaluate students’ research and writing skills, ability to interpret historical information, academic performance, and interest in past and current events. Researchers then compared their evaluations of students who participated in National History Day (NHD) to their peers who did not participate in the program.

The study, conducted at four sites around the country, found that on nearly every measure, NHD students’ scores or ratings were higher than their peers who did not participate in the program. The sites evaluated included school districts in urban, suburban and rural settings: Aldine Unified School District, Houston, TX; Chesterfield Co. Schools, Chesterfield, SC; a large public school district in Colorado; and Paterson Public Schools, Paterson, NJ. The survey included a slightly higher sample of Black and Hispanic students compared to the population breakdown in

U.S.

public schools.

About Michigan History Day

Michigan History Day (National History Day in Michigan) engages students from 4^th-12^th grade in a statewide academic competition which develops a wide variety of skills. Students choose historical topics related to a theme and conduct extensive primary and secondary research through libraries, archives, museums, oral history interviews, and historic sites. After analyzing and interpreting their sources and drawing conclusions about their topics’ significance in history, students present their work in original papers, websites, exhibits, performances, and documentaries. These products are entered into competitions in the spring at local, state, and national levels, where they are evaluated by professional historians and educators. The program culminates in a national competition each June held at the University of Maryland at College Park. For more information on Michigan History Day, visit www.hsmichigan.org or call (800) 692-1828.

About National History Day

National History Day (NHD) is a year-long academic organization for elementary and secondary school students. Each year, more than half a million students, encouraged by thousands of teachers nationwide participate in the NHD contest. Visit www.nhd.org.

###

The Historical Society of Michigan

5815 Executive Dr.

Lansing, MI 48911

Phone: (517) 324-1828

FAX: (517) 324-4370

Email: hsm@hsmichigan.org

Website: www.hsmichigan.org

$4,750 in Cash Prizes: New Mackinac Art Museum Holds Contemporary Art & Photography Exhibition Contests

2011-01-26T13:12:00.001-08:00

Professional and amateur artists and photographers, here’s your chance to shine Mackinac-style! Mackinac State Historic Parks (MSHP) announces two juried exhibition contests for The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, offering a total of $4,750 in cash prizes, plus the opportunity to have your work displayed in special contemporary art and photography exhibitions within this state-of-the-art, Mackinac Island museum. All material must be Mackinac-related, complementing the historic Mackinac fine and decorative art already on display.

For artists who have a special talent for painting, drawing, sketching and other two-dimensional work, excluding photography, consider entering the juried Contemporary Art Exhibition. Esteemed juror Robert J. Wilbert, professor emeritus in the Department of Art & Art History at Wayne State University, will choose the finest pieces for inclusion in the Contemporary Art Exhibition at the new art museum. Wilbert has work in the permanent collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts and was commissioned by the United States Postal Service to design a U.S. postage stamp. He will also choose the second annual “Gold Medal” winner, who will receive $2,500 cash, generously donated by the Mackinac Arts Council, a gold medal, and his or her name on the gold medal plaque. There will also be second and third place winners, with cash awards of $750 and $500 respectively. Entries must be postmarked by May 16, 2011. The exhibition runs from July 15-October 9, 2011.
Photographers also have a unique opportunity to showcase their best work to visitors from around to world. Announcing MSHP’s first Mackinac Island Photography Exhibition, aimed at sharing Mackinac moments captured on “film.” Photographers can share their vision of Mackinac through various forms, including digital or analog, color, monochrome, or any alternative photographic process. Juried by talented S. Kay Young, a Native American Detroit-based artist and teacher at Oakland Community College, Farmington Hills Heritage Park Art Program, this photography contest offers a first place cash prize of $500, second place of $350, and third place of $150. Young will select an array of inspirational photographs to appear in the art museum’s Mackinac Island Photography Exhibition, open August 1-October 9, 2011. Entries must be postmarked by June 1, 2011.
Guidelines, entry forms, and more information for both contests can be downloaded at www.MackinacParks.com/mackinac-art-museum by clicking on the “Art & Photo Contests” photo feature at the bottom right of the website, or by visiting the site and clicking on “Plan Your Visit” and then “Highlights/Art Contest Call for Entries.”
From Native American baskets to present-day paintings of the island, The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum showcases treasures in MSHP’s collection and inspires creativity in others. The art museum, generously funded by the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation, brings together Mackinac art created over the centuries. Through the use of audiovisual and hands-on techniques and special programs, visitors become fully immersed in art. The art museum, located in the Indian Dormitory, reopens May 13, 2011. General admission to the art museum is $5.00 adult, $3.50 youth ages 5-17, and free for children 4 and under and Mackinac Associates members. Also included with admission is The Kids’ Art Studio, located within the museum and open during certain dates.

Guidelines, entry forms, and more information: http://www.mackinacparks.com/mackinac-art-museum/index.aspx?l=0,1,10,746,86

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or on the web at www.MackinacParks.com

Mackinac State Historic Parks Conservator Refurbishes 125-Year-Old Mackinac Island Painting

2011-01-24T13:27:00.000-08:00

The oil-on-canvas painting of Arch Rock, a majestic limestone monument rising 146 feet above the Straits of Mackinac on Mackinac Island, is unique in so many ways. The painting, featuring nature’s monument from eye-level at sunrise, was painted 125 years ago by an unknown artist, identified only by the initials “W. K.” What is especially exciting about this painting, according to Mackinac State Historic Parks’ experienced conservator, Jennifer Lis, it that the painting has never before been treated.

Over 125 years of soot and grime vanish as she cleans the painting with a water-based gel solution, which is cleared away with saliva—containing enzymes used for cleaning—and followed by distilled water. In their place is a vibrant, colorful image of Mackinac Island’s past, a testament to a time that, on Mackinac Island, isn’t so long gone.

“It’s such a drastic cleaning,” Lis said. “The heavy grime layer substantially disfigured the image. Now the artist’s original vision is again revealed.”

The process is slow and delicate—Lis already has 40 hours into the project with an estimated 40 more to go—but the results are prolific. “Patience is a virtue every conservator needs, especially when cleaning a painting an inch or two at a time.”

Every four minutes during this process, Lis is recording her progress with a camera mounted to the ceiling over the painting. When finished, she plans on showcasing the process in a short film so that everyone has the opportunity to see the transformation from dark, grime-colored painting to an outstanding piece of artwork.

After the painting is cleaned, the losses will be filled in, the painting varnished, and the blemishes toned. This process will be followed by the application of a final varnish layer. Finally, the painting will be keyed out to tighten the canvas, a backing board added to protect the verso, and the painting secured back in its original frame.

Lis received her Master of Art Conservation degree from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a double major in art history and fine arts. Before joining MSHP, Lis completed a painting conservation fellowship at the Intermuseum Conservation Association in Cleveland, Ohio.

The untitled painting of Arch Rock was recently purchased by MSHP from a Cheboygan County resident. When the project is completed, it may be displayed in the new Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum at the Indian Dormitory on Mackinac Island.

View Photos & Read Online: http://www.mackinacparks.com/media/index.aspx?l=0,1,18,308,1060
Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Association of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Downtown, and The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at 231-436-4100 or online at www.mackinacparks.com.

Cross Trees Cottage

2011-01-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Built in 1891 as Buena Vista Cottage, today Cross Trees Cottage commands the same unchanged panoramic views from high atop Mackinac Island’s historic East Bluff. Cross Trees Cottage is a two story cross-hipped frame house with wraparound square shingled porch. Additions were added in 1892 and 1911. This cottage contributes to theNational Historic Landmark status of Mackinac Island.

Colonel Tileston Fracker (T.F.). and Mary Spangler built their summer home in 1891 and her architecture is very much influenced by the East Coast Shingle Style with sawthooth vergeboard edges, second floor eaves, imbricated shingles on the exterior and wood shingles across the exterior of the main floor.

Mary Sullivan Cox Spangler (daughter of Ezekiel Taylor Cox editor & part owner of the True American of Trenton, NJ and sister to Columbus Ohio Statesman newspaper editor Samuel "Sunset" Cox) and the Colonel had four children: Leola, Dorothea, Helen and Arthur.

Colonel T.F. Spangler established Spangler & Finley in Zanesville, Ohio and used his legal accumen in banking founding the People's Savings Bank and real estate, establishing the towns Fair Oaks, Brighton, Maplewood and Tiledale, Ohio. Tileston was very interested in history and his research led to confirmation that his family was descended from John Alden and Priscilla Mullins of the Mayflower.

After the passing of his wife Mary, Colonel Spangler married Mary Buckingham Green and the cottage is maintained by the family today. It is available for two week rental periods during the summer season.

http://www.mackinacisland.org/crosstrees.html

image from http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/3785286689_5fd98070d8.jpg

Mission Street Cottage

2011-01-18T17:34:00.000-08:00

This new cottage is located downtown in the historic Mission District and just minutes from town or Mission Point Resort. Decked out in the finest granite, marble and tile of this era, Mission Street Cottage is filled with charm. We find it to be one of the most perfect monthly vacation rentals on the Island. it has four bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, open floor plan, hardwood floors, designer carpets, Ann Sacks tile baths, Pewabic pottery tile fireplace, Wi Fi, Media Room, Laundry room, gorgeous landscaping and is fido friendly.

Rentals are available by the month or longer. Check out the website at www.missionstreetcottage.com to see more of the interior and for contact information.

Did we say it is gorgeous? If not, it is.

Gallery Cottage on Mackinac Island

2011-01-18T17:29:00.000-08:00

Gallery Cottage is located in Hubbard's Annex, the first historic district on Mackinac Island.This

historic Victorian era summer cottage available for family vacations. Close to Grand Hotel in Hubbard's Annex, it has a very spacious yard with a privacy hedge. The screened in porch on three sides has a tree framed water view. The home features a living room with a woodburning fireplace, formal dining room for eight and a completely equipped kitchen and laundry.

There are four bedrooms, one large bedroom downstairs with two twins and full bath, three bedrooms upstairs; master with one queen and one twin plus lake view, northeast facing bedroom with antique full size brass bed, antique rocker and baby crib, west facing bedroom with stately antique full size spindle bed and afternoon sun.

Extra details: Two twin rollaway beds, portable crib, bicycles and bbq grill provided.

Grocery delivery available. Also, 24 hour horse drawn taxi service available.

The reasonable rates depend on the time of year needed and the number of people renting.

For more images, click here http://www.flickr.com/photos/mackinacisland/show/with/3878674557/

For contact information, click here http://www.mackinacisland.org/gallerycottage.html

New Year's Weekend on Mackinac Island

2010-12-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Eve December 31, 2010

The Village Inn, Mustang Lounge and Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub host great parties and with the Mackinac Island State Park open for hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, everyone will have fun outdoors and in to ring in the New Year. It’s a beautiful time to be on the Island. Amazing dinners will be offered at all restaurants, reservations at the Village Inn suggested.

Music abounds as well:
DJ Brevin: Village Inn Restaurant
http://www.viofmackinac.com/

Tricky Dicky and the Spoonmen: Mustang Lounge feat. Paul Bedour, Jason St. Onge, Donny Sorensen and friends... http://www.mustangonmackinac.com/

Thunder Chiefs: Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub feat Mary McGuire, Gary Rasmussen and Nino Dmytryzyn
http://www.patricksinclairs.com/

America's New Year Celebration January 1, 2011
The first bowl game was the 1902 Rose Bowl, played between Michigan and Stanford; Michigan won 49-0. It ended when Stanford requested and Michigan agreed to end it with 8 minutes on the clock. That game was so lopsided that the game was not played annually until 1916, when the Tournament of Roses decided to reattempt the postseason game.

Here in Michigan and around the country, it is a time honored New Year’s Day tradition to watch some great college football. Our pubs get in the spirit starting with showing the 122nd Rose Parade and then celebrate college sports all day long at the Mustang, Patrick Sinclair’s and the Village Inn. So stick around and don't miss out on one of the most enduring American parade and sports traditions on one of the top ten islands in the world.

Accommodations:
Mission Point Resort
http://www.missionpoint.com/
800-833-7711
a 15 minute walk from downtown

Bogan Lane Inn
http://www.boganlaneinn.com/
906-847-3439
two blocks from downtown

Cottage Inn of Mackinac
http://www.cottageinnofmackinac.com/
(906) 847-4000
located on Market Street downtown

Harbor Place Studio Suites
http://www.harborplacestudiosuites.com/
800-626-6304
located downtown

Pontiac Lodge
http://www.pontiaclodge.com/
906-847-3364
located downtown
Park Place Suites
http://www.mackinacislandparkplacesuites.com/
(906) 847-8194
located downtown on Market Street across from the Post Office

Sunset Condos (Up Island...ski in- ski out)
http://www.mackinacresorts.com/
(906) 847-3407
Most condos are located on the Stonecliffe Estate about a mile and a half from downtown. Perfect for xx skiers. Also inquire about the spacious Harbor Suite downtown on the Star Line Ferry dock.

Dining

Village Inn of Mackinac http://www.viofmackinac.com/
906-847-3542

Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub http://www.patricksinclairs.com/
906-847-8255

Mustang Lounge http://www.mustangonmackinac.com/
906-847-9916

Goodfellows Italian Chophouse http://www.lakeviewhotel.us/ (please note, the hotel remains closed for the winter)
906-847-0260 (tentative opening, please call to confirm)

Getting Here:
Arnold Line Ferry from St. Ignace
Arnold Transit Company http://www.arnoldline.com/
906-847-3351

From Mackinac County Airport in St. Ignace
Great Lakes Air http://www.greatlakesair.net/
906-643-7165
Round Trip between St. Ignace and Mackinac Island
$27 per person each way, kids 12 and under $13.50 each way (2 fare minimum)

From everywhere else in the friendly skies
Delta (use Pellston Airport PLN only) http://www.delta.com/

Groceries

Doud's Market (906) 847-3444 http://www.doudsmarket.com/
Full service grocer offering fresh meats, produce, canned and boxed goods, beer, wine, liquor, lottery and more.

For any questions, please call the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau (800) 454-5227 10am-5pm, Monday through Friday, email info@mackinacisland.org or click on http://www.mackinacisland.org/.

Recipe by Agnes Shine

2010-11-24T17:11:00.000-08:00

Agnes Shine was a lovely Scottish immigrant who made Mackinac Island her American home. She was loved by all who knew here and her memory lives on in so many ways.

While preparing for the 25th Anniversary of A Taste of Mackinac, we came across several of Agnes Shine's recipes. This recipe is for a traditional Scottish meat pie using venison or beef.

Agnes Shine's Scottish Steak Pie

Ingredients
3lbs lean venison or beef steak (round or chuck about 2 1/2 inches thick)
1 large yellow onion diced
2 cups boiling water
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsely
4-8 large mushrooms sliced thinly
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/3 cup cold water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Pastry for single pie crust (ready made is fine)

Directions

While bringing water to boil, cut steak into thick slices about 3 inches long. Place is large iron skillet on medium high. Add 2 cups boiling water, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add thyme, parsley, pepper and onions and simmer until meat is tender, about 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Remove meat to casserole or deep pie dish layering fresh mushrooms and seasoned meat.

Blend cornstarch with cold water, salt and Worcestershire sauce into skillet to make gravy. Heat until gravy thickens, be sure not to boil. Pour gravy over meat and mushrooms. Roll out pastry and place over the top, pinch to edges of casserole or pie dish and make a slice in the center.

Bake at 425 until crust is brown, about 12-16 minutes.

Serves 6

The dish is often served with "steak chips" or thickly sliced potatoes fried or oven baked.

Options
If you prefer a completely crusted meat pie, lay pie crust in casserole, add meat and mushroom layers, gravy and then top with more pastry crust and bake. Sauteed carrots or peas may also be added to layers if desired.

1/3 cup of Guiness Stout may be substituted for the water in the gravy mixture

Single portions may be made as well.

Mackinac Island Christmas Bazaar

2010-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Its almost time for the annual Christmas Bazaar on Mackinac Island. Proceeds from this great event help our local churches: Ste Anne's, Trinity, Little Stone, Mackinac Island Bible Church and the Mackinac Island Medical Center.

The events begin with the tree lighting in front of the Tourism Bureau at 5:30pm on Friday, December 3rd. Hot chocolate and cookies abound for the children. Christmas Carols and a Hayride will also take place during the lighting. Following the tree lighting, there will be a rummage sale at the Fire Hall with refreshments available. To donate items for the rummage sale, just drop off clean useful items at the Fire Hall on Wednesday and Thursday prior.

From 11am-6pm on Saturday, December 4th, the Mackinac Island Community Hall becomes the epicenter of Island life for the next few days. Arts and crafts are available for purchase. One favorite is the ornaments created by Trish Martin from Bogan Lane Inn. They are hand painted with scenes from Mackinac Island and were featured on HGTV's Top Ten Christmas Towns two winters ago.

Santa makes his visit at 1:30pm to visit all the children and learn what it is they wish for under their trees. There will also be an auction at 2pm and Mike Carley does an amazing job as auctioneer with the assistance of Bruce LaPine and many other Islanders.

On Sunday from 11am-6pm, the community hall comes alive again with a Prime Rib Supper served at 12pm and the auction reprising at 2pm. Be sure to check out Carolyn LaPine's knitted crafts, she is incredibly talented and everyone wants to get something from Carolyn each winter.

The finale is on Monday from 11am-3pm for the 50/50 raffles and the highlight of each season, the raffle for the brand new snowmobile donated by Doud's Market. Tickets for the snowmobile can be purchased at Doud's Market on Main Street from now until the finale.

Christmas trees, wreaths and garland may be purchased as well. This is how the Islanders decorate for the season each winter. Chambers stable is home to the trees which support the Mackinac Island Public School and the wreaths and garland are sold right at the bazaar.

To come to the Island, be sure to ride over on Arnold Line Ferry or Great Lakes Air. The community hall is an easy walk from the ferry docks and a 30 minute horse drawn taxi ride from the airport. To reserve a taxi call (906) 847-3323.

For places to stay and places to eat, click on www.mackinacisland.org/winter.html.

Mackinac Island Blog

Grand Hotel Selected As Theme For Art Exhibition

Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub Opens for New Year’s Eve Celebration

Mustang Lounge Rocks the New Year on Mackinac Island

A Mackinac Island New Year’s Eve at Cawthorne’s Village Inn

Mackinac Island Christmas Bazaar

A Mackinac Island Winter

"One Of The Top Ten Christmas Towns In America"~HGTV

Events

December 3-5, 2011 Christmas Bazaar

December 31, 2011 New Year’s Eve

January 1, 2012 Baby New Year

January 13-16, 2012 Martin Luther King Weekend

February 4-6, 2012 Mackinac Island Winter Festival

February 10-12, 2012 Great Turtle Chili Cook Off

February 17-20, 2012 Washington’s Birthday Bash

March 16-18, 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Getting Here

Sleeping Here

Eating Here

Shopping

Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Rentals

Things to Do

Snowmobiles

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry Will Run A Winter Fast Ferry to Mackinac Island

Ron Dufina Receives the First Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Lifetime Acheivement Award

Samhain (Summer’s End) Weekend

Mackinac Island Introduces The First Annual Great Turtle Shopping Week

Mackinac Island Restaurant Week Prix Fixe Menus

Great Turtle Shopping Week!!!

Rockin' the Shell off the Turtle: Mackinac Island Music Festival

Contemporary Artists Featured at Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum

Yell “Huzzah!” for Vintage Base Ball on Mackinac Island

103rd Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Gets Ready for Mackinac Island

Race to Mackinac Weather Update

7th Annual Mackinac Island Music Festival Schedule of Events

Classical Guitar Professor to Perform at Mackinac Island Music Festival

Carolyn Striho Performs at Mackinac Island Music Festival

Hotel Iroquois Wins Best Small Hotel Award

Yell “Huzzah!” for Vintage Base Ball

Celebrate America's Independence on Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island Yacht Club Regatta Schedule

Fingerweaving, Wildcrafting, and 1830s Cooking and Crafting Instruction Offered through new Mackinac Art Museum

Local Residents Receive 50-Cent Admission to Mackinac State Historic Parks May 7-8

Seats Still Left for War of 1812 Historic Sites Tour

Watch Out! “Ghastly Mackinac” Dates Released and Prowling Mackinac Island

All Aboard! Bell's Sponsors the Bayview Yacht Club's Mackinac Rade

Ghost Hunters To Air Mackinac Island Episode

Mackinac Island June Events 2011

My Fizzy Valentine

Mackinac Island’s Festival Express Concert Rolls into the Motor City

The Arrival-A Documentary of the Chicago Yacht Club's Race to Mackinac

Calling all Geocachers for the 5th Annual Spring Fling on Mackinac Island

Chili Cookoff & Postcard Poker Scenic Ski Walk Rally

Michigan Students Participate in National Program to Boost School Performance and Job Skills

$4,750 in Cash Prizes: New Mackinac Art Museum Holds Contemporary Art & Photography Exhibition Contests

Mackinac State Historic Parks Conservator Refurbishes 125-Year-Old Mackinac Island Painting

Cross Trees Cottage

Mission Street Cottage

Gallery Cottage on Mackinac Island

New Year's Weekend on Mackinac Island

Recipe by Agnes Shine

Mackinac Island Christmas Bazaar

"One Of The Top Ten Christmas Towns In America"
~HGTV