Get Off The Couch News

White Meat or Dark?

2009-11-26T09:38:00.001-05:00

wild turkeys (photo from e-Nature)

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based on information from e-Nature

Most people really have an opinion about whether they prefer white or dark meat on the Thanksgiving bird. On the turkey, the legs and thighs are dark while the breast is white. Why?

It's all about muscle fiber. Red muscle fiber is mostly found in the legs and thighs of birds like chickens and turkeys, while in ducks and geese this type appears in the breast. The muscles serve different purposes in these two broad categories of birds.

Turkeys and chickens spend most of their time on the ground running around and scratching for food. They use their legs all the time. These muscles function aerobically and do not tire easily. The tissues are full of fat and sugar to fuel the aerobic metabolism. Think of a marathon runner- this uses aerobic metabolism.

On the other hand, small songbirds, geese and ducks are good flyers. Their breast muscles have to sustain that effort and so they are red, aerobic fibers.

White meat is anaerobic muscle- designed for short bursts of power. Turkeys can and do fly, but usually only when surprised by a predator. If pressed, turkeys can fly at 55 mph, but they won't do so for long. Anaerobic muscles tire quickly. Think of weight lifting- this uses anaerobic metabolism.

Hear the turkey voice
Use the picture as an e-card from e-Nature
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Get Outdoors - Get Vitamin D

2009-11-23T22:15:00.000-05:00

vitamin D molecule (from Wikipedia)

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based on a news release of Oregon State University

Recent research continues to show that people are not getting nearly enough vitamin D. Although some grain and dairy foods are enriched, the primary source of vitamin D is from exposure to the UV-B radiation of the sun. This triggers phytochemical reactions in the skin to produce the vitamin.

Particularly for those who live in northern temperate zones, vitamin D deficiency in the winter months is common. It is now being nicknamed "nature's antibiotic" for its apparent ability to boost the immune system. "About 70 percent of the population of the United States has insufficient levels of vitamin D," said Adrian Gombart, a principal investigator with the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. "This is a critical issue as we learn more about the many roles it may play in fighting infection, balancing your immune response, helping to address autoimmune problems, and even preventing heart disease."

Vitamin D helps serve as the first line of defense in your immune response against minor wounds, cuts, and both bacterial and viral infections. The Oregon State research shows that it causes the "expression" of cathelicidin, an antimicrobial peptide gene, which is the reason for its defensive properties.

Studies continue to find links between deficiency and kidney problems, susceptibility to infection, cancer, slow healing rates, respiratory problems.

It's no myth that sunny winter days lift the spirits. They do actually make us feel better. Take every opportunity you can to get outside during the winter months and stock up on vitamin D.

See the entire article at Eureka
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Parks Will Remain Open on State Furlough Days

2009-11-22T21:56:00.000-05:00

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based on a news article at Flint Journal

One method the legislature has devised to help balance the state budget is that six furlough days will be mandatory, on which state employees will not be paid. The Michigan DNR says that all state parks, recreation areas, boating access sites and forest campgrounds that were open at the time of the furlough will remain open. Employee schedules will be staggered to cover the staffing. The furlough dates are June 10, July 6, July 24, Aug. 7, Aug. 21 and Sept. 4, 2010.

Conservation and fire officers will remain on duty, also with staggered schedules. Ten visitor centers will be closed, as well as DNR-owned shooting ranges, the Wildlife Disease Lab, and the state fish hatcheries.

Hunting and fishing licenses may be purchased on furlough days.

DNR Director, Rebecca Humphries, noted that the department does have an emergency call-back plan that will be activated in the event of an emergency, such as a wildfire, on furlough days. "We hope that the public will not be greatly inconvenienced by this unfortunate, but necessary, occurrence," Humphries said. "DNR employees will do their best to make sure that our guests and customers are not impacted as they enjoy Michigan's great outdoors."

See Michigan DNR
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Are e-Readers the Next Hot Outdoor Gift?

2009-11-21T21:50:00.001-05:00

Kindle reader

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from a news release of the Outdoor Industry Association

The Outdoor Industry Association believes that the electronic reader may become the hot holiday gift for outdoor lovers.

In July, Forrester Research predicted the number of e-book users in the United States would grow from approximately 1 million to 13 million by 2013, as prices drop from the current $250 to $400 range to the $99 price point.

Amazon's Kindle has led the field, but Barnes & Noble, Sony, and the new Spring Design are not far behind. Other large electronics names are likely to enter the market, which will help drive prices down.

Even with the battery, readers generally weigh less than 3/4 of a pound. Of the 136,000 books available for Kindle, there are 1,452 with outdoor and nature titles. Another 364 are available on water sports, 154 on mountaineering and102 on winter sports, according to Amazon.com. Titles include several hiking guides, such as “The Ultralight Backpacker: The Complete Guide to Simplicity and Comfort on the Trail” by Ryel Kestenbaum. The digital price is even less expensive than the paperback.

With a more rugged case, and the availability of maps, the e-reader could easily go to the woods.

E-books have the same potential as the iPod to shape outerwear and pack design in coming years. Amazon has contacted outdoor brands to encourage them to develop Kindle 2 accessories. This year Patagonia began shipping a water-resistant nylon case for the Kindle 2.

College bookstore managers expect that e-books will become standard issue at universities over the next five years. and JanSport research suspects that this will influence backpack design, although the standard daypack design will probably persist because college kids carry so much more than books in their daypacks.
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Trailnote- Free, Easy, Peace of Mind

2009-11-20T18:25:00.002-05:00

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from the Trailnoteweb site

Trailnote is a free messaging service for all outdoor adventurers. The basic idea is to provide a way to send an emergency message to people of your choice.

To use this service you simply create a message about your trip. Give a description of your hiking (canoeing, sailing, climbing, etc) plans. Enter a start and end time for the trip, and mark the location on a digital map. Then create a list of people to be notified if you do not check in my a certain time. These messages can be relayed by email or text messaging.

If you return as scheduled you simple use the web site or a web-enabled phone to cancel the emergency message. You will receive a reminder warning notice if you do not check in. If you do not cancel the message, it will be sent to the people on your list, alerting them that you are overdue. It will be up to those people to contact emergency personnel or take other action.

Trailnote says, "Whenever you or a group hikes, bikes, kayaks, climbs, skis, surfs, jogs, walks, drives, rock crawls, 4x4s, boats, sails, flys, dives, cross countrys, camps, spelunks, or just plain roam about... make sure you are protected!"

See Trailnote
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First Michigan Human Rabies Death Since 1983

2009-11-17T21:06:00.003-05:00

Electron micrograph of the Rabies Virus (photo by CDC, public domain)

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based on a report from UpNorthLive.com

Few details are being released, but Region #10 Department of public health has reported that a man has died from rabies. This is the first known human death from the virus in Michigan since 1983. Region #10 covers Crawford, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Newaygo, Oceana and Wexford Counties, so one can assume that the death occurred in this area.

The disease was contracted by contact with a bat, although it has not been stated whether the man was actually bitten. Bats are the most frequent carriers of the virus in Michigan, although fewer than 1% of the animals are infected. Other common carriers are foxes, skunks, raccoons and coyotes.

Only 55 cases of rabies have been diagnosed in the United States since 1990. By the time symptoms appear in a human, the virus has probably reached the brain, and no treatment is possible. However, if contact is made with a wild animal that is acting strangely, one should always seek treatment immediately so that vaccine can be administered in time to prevent the disease from spreading, and ultimate death. Infected animals may lose their fear of humans, act aggressively or in an agitated manner. They may drool or be unsteady on their feet if the disease has progressed.

The virus is transmitted through the saliva of the infected animal. If one is bitten by a wild animal one should wash the wound with soap and water, and seek medical attention. If possible, the animal should be captured and tested. If bitten, also call the local health department and animal control office.

See rabies information from the Michigan DNR.
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Legislature to Override DNR on Pigeon River Use?

2009-11-15T23:16:00.004-05:00

(photo by Hamilton Conservation Authority

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based on a news article in the Lansing State Journal

A heated debate is taking place concerning the access for equestrians in the Pigeon River State Forest. Pigeon River is located in Cheboygan, Otsego and Montmorency Counties. The 118,000-acre woodland is home to the state elk herd, and is managed by the Michigan DNR. Over the past few years, the DNR has reduced the number of trails that are open for horseback riders. And therein is the problem.

Horse lovers do not like being restricted to a few trails and gravel roads. Sportsmen say that horses are causing environmental damage and erosion. When quotas for horse use were imposed last year the Pigeon River and Beyond Back Country Horsemen of Michigan decided to take the issue to the legislature.

Bills have been introduced in both houses of the legislature which would override the DNRs decisions and reopen the trails to horses. The opposition is led by the Michigan United Conservation Clubs, who point out that taking authority to manage the forest away from the DNR could jeopardize $25 million in federal funds.

Equestrians say that the closures were not based on any sound science, while the sportsmen maintain that the land was purchased largely with hunter money and must be managed with that use as a priority.

The debate is one which generates plenty of heat. Following the original article are many comments on both sides of the issue.

See Legislature debates horse access in forests
See Pigeon River Country
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"Lake Invaders: The Fight For Lake Huron" to Premier in GR

2009-11-15T00:12:00.004-05:00

Lake Invaders - 3:00 Trailer from john schmit on Vimeo.

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a news release of Michigan DNR

"Lake Invaders: The Fight for Lake Huron," a documentary film produced by faculty and students at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, will have its premiere screening at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at the Loosemore Auditorium in DeVos Center, located at 401 W. Fulton in Grand Rapids.

The film explores the threat invasive species have posed on Lake Huron, which has been invaded by more than 180 exotic species in the last century. Two years in the making, the film features Department of Natural Resources staff at the Alpena Fishery Research Station and the DNR research vessel Chinook.

Specialists from GVSU's Annis Water Resources Institute in Muskegon consulted on the project and spoke to students who filmed the documentary. The film, in part, traces the history of the Chinook research vessel, first launched in 1947 when Lake Huron was invaded by sea lamprey.

DNR staff at the Alpena research station has studied invasive species in the lake for more than 60 years, including sea lamprey, alewives, zebra mussels and round gobies.

Jim Johnson, DNR research biologist and manager of the Alpena Fishery Research Station, helped facilitate the filming of the documentary with his daughter, Laura Johnson, who recently graduated from GVSU and conceived the idea for the documentary. Johnson helped connect the students to the Lake Huron Technical Committee, a group of international biologists who share fishery and resource management responsibilities for Lake Huron. Johnson and staff at the research station also took the student film crew on the Chinook to show the work they do on Lake Huron.

See Lake Invaders
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Cold is Cool for 4th Michigan Graders

2009-11-13T21:13:00.003-05:00

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from MSIA

The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) is making it possible for every fourth grader in the state to ski for free. The Cold is Cool Passport will provide any applicant with a free lift ticket or trail pass for three uses at 21 participating Michigan ski areas.

MSIA is dedicated to helping to improve the health of children by making outdoor winter activities more affordable for families. Steve Kershner, MSIA chairman and director of skiing at Shanty Creek, says the association wants Michigan kids to have the opportunity to ski or snowboard. "Fourth grade is the perfect age to learn to ski. Nine- and ten-year-old kids have the coordination to pick up the sport quickly," he adds.

Kids must be accompanied by a paying adult, but up to two fourth graders can ski free with each paying adult.

Information about the passport is being distributed through schools. Applications can also be obtained at participating ski shops and on line. There is a $15 processing fee. A copy of the most recent report card or birth certificate must be provided as proof of grade level.

See Cold is Cool Application (a pdf)
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New State Park Funding On Brink of Passage

2009-11-12T23:06:00.001-05:00

2008 Michigan State Park sticker

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based on news stories in the Detroit News and M-Live

Since April, Michigan lawmakers have been working on options to fund state parks, since money for their operation has been removed from the General Fund. The State Senate has just approved a plan which would eliminate the annual park stickers and replace it with a system which adds a voluntary charge to vehicle license plates.

When a person renews their license plates they will be asked if they wish to pay an extra $10 which will allow them to enter, by honor system, any state park. Those who choose not to pay the extra $10, will be issued a warning if the vehicle is noted within a park. A second offense will result in a fine. Out-of-state visitors would still pay for daily or annual stickers.

If only 17% of vehicle registrations agree to pay the additional $10 a year, funding for the parks would remain at the same level. For individuals, it is a great deal, because the annual cost is reduced from $24 to $10. Montana uses a similar system and about 60% of vehicle owners choose to pay the extra fee.

The bill will now go to the Michigan House of Representatives, where it is expected to pass.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the road construction industry oppose the bill because they believe all transportation fees should go for road and bridge construction. Environmental groups and the Michigan United Conservation Clubs support it, noting that total revenues are very likely to increase.

See State Parks to Get No Money from 2009 General Fund
See State Park Funding Proposal Would Require No Special Plate
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Rockwell Lake Lodge Ski Package Specials

2009-11-11T18:56:00.001-05:00

photo from Rockwell Lake Lodge publicity

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a news release of Rockwell Lake Lodge

Rockwell Lake Lodge, located near Luther in northeast Lake County, opened in June 2008. The 16,000 square foot lodge also has facilities as a conference and retreat facility, operated as a part of Hillsdale College’s G. H. Gordon Biological Station.

photo from Rockwell Lake Lodge publicity

Ten miles of groomed cross-country ski trails surround the lake and wander through the woods. Snowshoers are welcome on or off trail. Return to the lodge and enjoy cocoa and cookies near the fire. For this year's winter season, Rockwell is offering two vacation packages, one for weekdays, and a similar one for weekends. Both offers are for two people, two nights lodging, two breakfasts and two dinners. The Wednesday - Friday plan is just $249 per couple, while the Friday - Sunday plan is priced at $339 per couple.

The Lodge has ten non-smoking guest suites; king rooms include a sleeper sofa. Some rooms overlook the lake, while the others offer a beautiful view of the natural palette of the surrounding woods.

See Rockwell Lake Lodge
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Iceman Iceless, but Record Participation

2009-11-09T01:52:00.000-05:00

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based on a news article in the Traverse City Record-Eagle

With temperatures soaring to new records in many northern Michigan cities, there was no ice for the Iceman, or slop for the Slush Cup, but there were over 4,400 riders in the popular bicycle races held this weekend in Kalkaska.

The 28-mile Iceman was won by Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski and Alison Dunlap, both of Colorado. Both are also Olympic riders. Horgan-Kobelski turned in the winning time for the men at 1:34:02, and Dunlap finished in 1:46:41.

In addition to the 28-mile Iceman from Kalkaska to Traverse City through the Pere Marquette State Forest, is an eight-mile "Slush Cup," and the "Sno-Cone" - a race for kids under 12. The event is the largest single-day mountain bike event in the country.

Thanks to the many corporate sponsors, first place men and women earned $3,000. The runner-ups received $2,000. Third-place finishers took home $1,500.

See Fair weather, huge field mark Iceman
See Iceman race draws record field
See Iceman Cometh Challenge
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The 500-Mile Summer- An NCT Sampler

2009-11-07T18:53:00.002-05:00

Young at overlook on Border Route Trail

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by JHY

Joan Young will share photos and adventures from her hikes on the North Country Trail during 2009. From May through October she hiked 500 miles, some in Minnesota, Michigan, and Ohio. The trail sections covered included the rugged northern Minnesota Arrowhead, and the long connection from Ely to Grand Rapids, MN. Many of the miles were traveled with friends, but about 175 were hiked solo. Some was backpacked, and some "slack-packed."

She will be giving the program twice in the coming weeks, beginning with the Tuesday (Nov 10) meeting of the Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association. Beginning at 6:00 pm, at the Lake Bluff Audubon House, 2890 Lakeshore Road, Manistee, the program will follow a very short business meeting.

The second showing will be at the Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club, Wednesday November 18, 7:30pm. The Conservation Club meets at their Clubhouse north of Brethren, Michigan.

Young is poised to become the first woman to hike the entire NCT. She plans to hike the final mile of her trek on August 3, 2010, at the Boor property near Petoskey, Michigan. She invites anyone who would like to celebrate with her to join her on that date.

Contact Joan Young
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Grand Traverse Center Road Natural Area Has New Trails

2009-11-06T00:18:00.000-05:00

trail volunteers (photo by JHY)

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based on a news article in the Grand Traverse Herald

Center Road Natural Area in Peninsula Township near Traverse City has several new trails. Volunteers from the Grand Traverse Hikers Club persevered, and after two rain dates finally were able to work this past Sunday.

Trails were added through the former orchard on the property. A year ago, voters approved the purchase and creation of a park which will be managed by the township. In addition to the orchard the property "includes a bowl-shaped meadow, a climax hemlock forest, varied animal habitat and undeveloped East Bay frontage." Parking has been added, and nearby homeowners have indicated that they will simply walk to the property.

Dick Naparala, familiar in North Country Trail circles, said "Basically, a trail gives people an opportunity for recreation or for exercise. I live on the Peninsula and I think it's a wonderful thing to have another (quiet) area, it's kind of a little oasis in all this busyness."

Thousands of volunteer hours have already been logged putting in fencing and boundary markings. All the volunteer time saves taxpayers money.

The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy has partnered with the township and friends of the project to acquire the land. Other supporters include Hagerty Insurance, TC Rentals, and the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments.

See Grand Traverse Hiking Club
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Cougars In Eastern UP Verified

2009-11-05T00:06:00.002-05:00

cougar or mountain lion (photo from Michigan DNR)

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from a news release of the Michigan DNR

The Department of Natural Resources today announced it has verified two sets of cougar tracks and confirmed the location of a cougar photo in the eastern Upper Peninsula. The tracks were discovered in the DeTour and Gulliver areas, while the photo was taken near Bruce Township.

"These are the first confirmed cougar tracks in the eastern Upper Peninsula, and we appreciate the cooperation of the callers who reported the tracks and worked to keep them covered until we could respond to the scene," said Sitar, who is a member of the DNR's cougar team. "Other landowners who believe they have evidence of a cougar on their property, such as tracks or a kill site, are encouraged to contact their local DNR field office as soon as possible, which allows staff to investigate before the evidence is compromised. Without good evidence, like what we had in these two cases, verification becomes increasingly difficult."

Established cougar populations are found as close to Michigan as North and South Dakota, and transient cougars dispersing from these areas have been known to travel hundreds of miles in search of new territory. Characteristic evidence of cougars include tracks, which are about three inches long by three and a half inches wide and typically show no claw marks, or suspicious kill sites, such as deer carcasses that are largely intact and have been buried with sticks and debris.

Several unverified, but reliable reports of mountain lions in the western Lower Peninsula have come to the attention of the editor of this column.

If a citizen comes into contact with a cougar, the following behavior is recommended:

Stop, stand tall, pick up small children and do not run. A cougar's instinct is to chase.
Do not approach the animal.
Try to appear larger than the cougar. Never take your eyes off the animal or turn your back. Do not crouch down or try to hide.
If the animal displays aggressive behavior, shout, wave your arms and throw rocks. The idea is to convince the cougar that you are not prey, but a potential danger.
If a cougar attacks, fight back aggressively and try to stay on your feet. Do not play dead. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought back.

Cougars are classified as an endangered species in Michigan. It is unlawful to kill, harass or otherwise harm a cougar except in the immediate defense of human life.

For more information about the recent cougar tracks and photo, call Sitar at (906) 293-5131. To learn more about cougars and how to identify their tracks, see Michigan DNR
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Let Your Horse Out!

2009-11-03T21:03:00.003-05:00

(photo by JHY)

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from the United States Equestrian Federation

Let your horse out! Show off your best friend by entering your horse's profile at Club Equestrian. Sign up for free, and add your horse to the growing list of horse profiles.

Enter information about your animal's registry, gender, age, name and location. You can upload a picture of your special equine. Choose favorites to keep in a file of "my horses."

Club Equestrian is the web site of the United States Equestrian Federation. The USEF is "dedicated to uniting the equestrian community, honoring achievement, and serving as guardians of equestrian sport." The Federation aims to promote excellence for both horses and humans in equestrian sports. They fund the United States Equestrian Team in international competitions, and license events in this country.

The Federation headquarters are located in the Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, Kentucky

See Club Equestrian horse profiles
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Tom Springer - Looking for Hickories - In GR Tuesday

2009-11-02T22:29:00.003-05:00

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from several sources

The author of Looking for Hickories: The Forgotten Wildness of the Rural Midwest will take you on a sensory journey. You are invited to "taste sweet samples of serviceberry jam, smell aromatic sassafrass root, and see and touch the rough texture of the virgin bur oak tree and other natural artifacts found in Michigan." Tom Springer shares from his award-winning book Tuesday evening, Nov. 3, at the Grand Rapids Meijer Gardens, 7 p.m. The event is free for Meijer Gardens Members and GRAHC members, others pay regular admission.

Springer currently is a senior editor at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek. Looking for Hickories is a Library of Michigan 2009 Michigan Notable Book. It is described as "a masterfully written collection that establishes a new voice for the spirit of the upper Midwest and Michigan and offers a fresh look at the landscape as well as the everyday lives of the people who make up the region's small communities."

Springer is a well-known nature and outdoor travel writer. His articles have appeared in such publications as Backpacker, Michigan Out-of-Doors, and Notre Dame, and several of his commentaries have appeared on National Public Radio programs.

See University of Michigan Press
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GR Mountain Bike Park to be Built Near Plaster Creek

2009-11-01T23:38:00.000-05:00

location of new trail

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based on a news article at M-Live

The former Southwest Little League park at 580 Kirtland St, SW, Grand Rapids will be transformed to a mountain bike park. The City Commission unanimously approved the plan.

Nate Phelps, president of the Michigan Mountain Biking Association, expects that the first skills area will be ready to go before next summer. This section will be about 1.5 miles in length, and is to be located on the former baseball diamond.

In the center of the area is the Helmets-On BMX course, and the new trails will follow the perimeter of the property. Working out the agreements has taken some time. The Michigan Mountain Biking Association wanted to ensure that it will be a public park. This required that the BMX group return their lease to the city

"It's a match made in heaven to have the bicycle motocross people and mountain bikers all at one park," Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation director Jay Steffen said. The West Michigan Chapter of the MMBA will spearhead the development of the trail and the maintenance.

See MMBA
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Win a Year of Skiing

2009-10-30T01:42:00.000-04:00

photo courtesy of Crystal Mountain

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based on a news release of MSIA

As in several previous years the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) has produced a card that allows the holder to ski at 28 different Michigan ski areas this winter for just $189.

This year, to encourage skiers to try all the great slopes in Michigan, MSIA has also created a challenge for White Gold Card participants. "The first person to use the White Gold Card at all 28 Michigan ski areas will win a card for the 2010/2011 ski season," MSIA chairman, Steve Kershner announced. To win, White Gold Card holders must ski at all the ski areas and then send MSIA their punched-out White Gold Card accompanied by a used lift ticket from each of the ski areas.

The MSIA White Gold Card, entitles purchasers to ski one time at each of the participating ski areas during the 2009/2010 ski season. Also included is one free ski tune-up (edge sharpen and wax) at participating MSIA ski retailers. Paying for each of these tickets and the tune-up individually would cost over $900.

The card is valid for the entire ski season, except for December 24, 2009 through January 4, 2010. The cards are non-refundable and non-transferable. To get the tune-up, White Gold Card purchasers take their skis or boards to one of the over 40 participating ski shops. Only 400 cards are produced, so act quickly to get yours.

See MSIA White Gold Card
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Woman Walks 10,000 Miles - You Can Too!

2009-10-28T22:57:00.001-04:00

Martha Michel celebrates her 10,000th mile (still from KKTV video- see link below)

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inspired by several news accounts

Yesterday, the 88-year old Martha Michel of Colorado made headlines as she celebrated the 10,000th mile she has walked in memory of her late husband. Martha and Lester Michel used to walk together around the pond at the Namaste Alzheimer Center every day. Since Lester died in 1998 she has continued her walks, keeping track of each lap around the pond on a golf counter.

I have no desire to belittle this accomplishment, but would like to point out that this is a goal that almost anyone can attain! Although this is the equivalent of hiking across the United States several times, it was accomplished by walking only 3 miles a day over the course of 12 years. A three-mile walk takes only an hour or a little more to complete, certainly possible for anyone who decides to take the time to do it.

The Michels had a long history of outdoor experiences. Lester was a Colorado "Fourteener," having climbed the 55 peaks in the state over 14,000 feet. Martha accompanied him on 32 of them.

However, a history of physical fitness does not overcome the simple commitment to a course of action. "Whether it’s raining, snowing, sunshine in 100 degree heat, Martha is out with her red umbrella and jacket, doing her 15 laps a day," commented Namasté administrator Janice Fisher.

And even three miles a day can be a challenge. Martha has a screw and 9-inch pin in one ankle. Not to mention that at 88 years of age even being spry does not mean that you'll feel like walking every day.

But, that simple commitment to walk every day can net you 10,000 miles or more too!

See Colorado Springs Gazette
See the video at KKTV
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Traverse City Hiker Striving for 1000 Miles

2009-10-27T23:07:00.004-04:00

Marilyn Hoogstraten (photo by JHY)

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by JHY

Marilyn Hoogstraten of Traverse City is on a mission to hike 1000 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail. And she is well on her way toward that goal. I met up with her today at Timber Creek, on US 10 west of Baldwin, Michigan, and hiked along for a couple of miles.

"I had always dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail," Marilyn explained. "But here I am in Michigan, and the NCT is right here. I decided it was time to do it." She has set as her first goal to hike all of the trail in Michigan. So far she's done about 450 miles in the Lower Peninsula, and 25 in the Upper. Her plan is to complete the LP before winter sets in.

She is a member of the Grand Traverse Hikers Club (a chapter of the North Country Trail Association), and has spent a lot of time working on the trail, so she appreciates a well-tended pathway. Today she was hiking from US 10 to 96th St, at the Lake/Newaygo County line. Within that section she will make use of the new Sterling Marsh boardwalk.

Rather than hiking a continuous route, Marilyn has done sections wherever she could work out the logistics, keeping track of what she has completed and what is yet to do. Often she hikes with friends who help her with car spotting, as well as provide companionship.

See Infected by the H1-K1-NG Bug for more
See Marilyn's Journal
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When Learning Comes Naturally - PBS

2009-10-27T01:05:00.002-04:00

kids learning about toads (photo by JHY)

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from the Learning Child Series

"When Learning Comes Naturally" is a new video from the Learning Child Series.

It asks the question, "How can children be encouraged to make a lasting connection to nature?" Four schools in New York, New Jersey and California which have made an effort to incorporate nature activities into their curricula are featured. Discovery is encouraged through outdoor play, activities and creative endeavors.

The documentary shows how children must develop a sense of value for the natural world before they can care for it and develop an "ethic of environmental responsibility."

The description states: "Integral to these nature programs are facilities that are not often seen in a standard schoolyard – gardens, small trails and outdoor 'green adventure' areas. These may not take up much room at all, but allow for the discoveries and choices that are vital to child development and learning."

I saw the program on PBS this weekend, and it is full of great ideas for connecting children with the wonders of nature.

The Learning Child Series are videos produced for public television. They are meant to be an aid to parents and teachers. These programs are carried by over 150 PBS stations. The video can also be ordered.

See When Learning Comes Naturally (a pdf)
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Kayak Accident Has Good Outcome

2009-10-26T00:08:00.003-04:00

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based on a news article at WZZM TV

Yet another recreational boating accident in west Michigan occurred about 4 pm today on the Grand River, in downtown Grand Rapids. In this case, two kayakers, identified only as a middle-aged couple, nearly lost their lives.

The kayaks were being paddled above the low dam near DeVos Center, but apparently did not realize that the dam was there, or the danger. Nearby fishermen in a boat called to them to watch out, but they were unable to warn the kayakers in time.

When they saw the kayaks go over the dam and tip, their boat was the only one nearby in the river, and the fisherman quickly came to the rescue. They were able to pull the man and woman from the water and deliver them to the shore.

The woman was apparently unconscious, but was revived by paramedics. Both were transported to the hospital and their conditions are reported to be non-life threatening.

Just four days ago a canoeist died on the Kalamazoo River. Earlier this year a kayaker on the Red Cedar River (Lansing) was able to call for help because he had carefully packed his cell phone in a waterproof bag, and in September a sailboat capsized near Muskegon, but the sailor was rescued. Small craft recreation is highly popular but the risks should not be taken lightly.

Even experienced boaters and swimmers would be wise to wear a life vest. Know the waterway you are traveling. Remember that the colder water of spring and fall can be more deadly. Practice handling your craft in calm water until you are capable of attempting more risky outings. Learn what to do when capsized in both moving and still water.

Follow the link above to see pictures at WZZM.

See Canoeing Wife Aids Husband's Capsized Sailboat
See Kayaker Rescued With Use of Cell Phone
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West MI Pike Auto Tourist Camps Commemorated

2009-10-24T23:10:00.004-04:00

Historical Marker outside the Park Gate (photo by City of Hart)

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a news release of the Michigan DNR

Michigan Historical Commissioner Tom Truscott dedicated a Michigan Historical Marker honoring both auto tourist camps - popular with early-20th-century travelers - and Hart's John Gurney Park on Saturday, Oct. 17. Part of an ongoing effort to promote tourism in communities along the old West Michigan Pike (US-31), the marker is located near the entrance arch of the park, at 300 Griswold St. in Hart.

"John Gurney Park was one of several auto tourist camps developed along the West Michigan Pike during the 1920s, meeting the need for accommodations among a growing crowd of automobile travelers," said Michigan Historical Center Director Sandra Clark. "It's one of the many fascinating stories of Michigan's West coast heritage that the West Michigan Roadmap project is bringing to life."

The Michigan Historical Center - the former home of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), now housed in the Michigan State Housing Development Authority - began collaborating with the Michigan Beachtown Association in 2006 in an effort to boost tourism along Michigan's western shoreline. SHPO's West Michigan Roadmap project, funded in part with a federal Preserve America grant, identified tourism-related sites along the West Michigan shoreline from New Buffalo to Ludington. The historic West Michigan Pike served as the focal point for the project, which lays the foundation for a heritage route that will be developed by the Michigan Beachtown Association and the Michigan Department of Transportation.

As the automobile became the preferred way to travel in the early 20th century, there was not enough lodging to accommodate the number of travelers on the road. Camping, often on private land, became popular among those who took long trips to scenic areas and needed places to stay. To meet demand, the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association proposed that five camps be built in 1920 along the West Michigan Pike, one of the state's first improved highways. By 1923 Michigan had some 300 free auto tourist camps.

John Gurney Park was donated to the village of Hart in 1912 by a former state senator and his wife to honor their son, Lieutenant John Gurney, who had died at the Battle of Santiago de Cuba during the Spanish American War. In 1914 the Progressive Park Association erected the entrance arch as a memorial.

The Michigan Historical Marker Fund and the Michigan Beachtown Association paid for the marker. It is the second of five Michigan Historical Markers to be erected as part of the West Michigan Roadmap project. The first, honoring animator Winsor McCay, was dedicated earlier this year in Spring Lake. Additional markers to be erected include a Grand Haven marker recognizing Jewish resorts and West Michigan summer resorts, a Muskegon marker honoring Scenic Drive and Muskegon State Park, and a New Buffalo marker giving an overview of the West Michigan Pike's history.

Since the Michigan Historical Marker program began in 1955, more than 1,500 official historical markers have been erected. Traveling Through Time: A Guide to Michigan's Historical Markers contains the text and location of state markers. It is available anywhere books are sold or by calling (517) 373-1663.

See West Michigan Historic Sites
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Colin Skinner Walking 6000 Miles for Hospice

2009-10-24T01:35:00.002-04:00

Colin Skinner (photo from his blog)

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based on news from 9&10 News, and Colin's blog

Colin Skinner is walking 6000 miles. For the second time!

In 1988, the Skinner, a PhD in Molecular Biology, set out to walk across Britain, the USA and parts of Canada to reach the Golden Gate Bridge. Now, he's doing it all again, but this time for a cause.

In 2003 his mother died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 59. She did not have the advantages of hospice care, and Skinner wants to raise money so that everyone who needs it can benefit from hospice. Colin has written a book about his journey, called Beyond the Setting Sun, and the proceeds go to hospices across the world.

He has been in Michigan for several days, and is in Sault St. Marie tonight. At many of his stops he spends time at the local hospice. In Port Huron he visited a woman who is receiving help from Blue Water Hospice. "Without Blue Water Hospice I don't know what I would have done." the woman explained. "I have to work to keep money coming in and to receive medical insurance. The support that Blue Water has given me is wonderful."

See a video at9&10 News
See Colin's blog
See Colin's web page
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