Win a Year of Skiing

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!

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

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

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

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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

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

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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Canoe Accident on Kalmazoo River

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based on news from WWMT Channel 3

A 69-year-old Gobles man died today while canoeing the Kalamazoo River. David and Marilyn Barber were canoeing the Kalamazoo River today, when the canoe tipped, sending them both into the water. Marilyn called 911, and the Fennville Fire Department was summoned.

The site was remote enough that GPS location had to be used to find the canoeists. Marilyn Barber had been able to pull her husband to shore, but he was not breathing. Barber is reported to have had an underlying medical condition, but it is not known at this time if that contributed to his death.

See Kayaker Rescued with Use of Cell Phone
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Michigan DNR and DEQ to Recombine

Bruce Rasher

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based on news from WZZM TV 13

By order of Governor Granholm, on January 17, 2010, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Department of Natural Resources will recombine into one unit, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. The original division was made by former Governor John Engler.

The combination is supposed to save the state $1.5 million a year. What this will mean for any of the resources overseen by departments no one knows.

In the letter sent to state workers, the following paragraph refers to trails:

Trails Advisory Council. A seven-member Trails Advisory Council will be established under the executive order, and the functions of the existing Snowmobile Advisory Council and Michigan Trailways Advisory Council, which are being abolished under the order, will be given to this council. The Michigan Trails Advisory Council will focus on the creation, development, operation, and maintenance of snowmobile, equestrian, hiking, skiing, and off-road vehicle trails.

Bruce Rasher, with a fisheries and wildlife degree from MSU, has been appointed as transition manager. Rasher is a former mayor of the city of Marshall and has many years of experience at Consumers Energy. He will oversee the changes needed until a permanent director is chosen in January.

"The new department will be leaner, more efficient and better able to manage our natural resources and protect our environment," Lt. Governor John Cherry said.

See Office of the Governor
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Michigan Tops List in Walk to School Month

(photo from Michigan Walk to School)

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based on a news article in the Baltimore Sun

International Walk to School Month, October, gives children, parents, school teachers and community leaders an opportunity to be part of a global event as they celebrate the many benefits of walking. Millions of walkers from around the world walk to school together for various reasons – all hoping to create communities that are safe places to walk. International Walk to School Month is a program of the National Center for Safe Routes to School.

Michigan tops the list of participating states with 446 schools registered.

The U.S. National Household Travel Survey reports that parents of schoolchildren most often report many reasons for choosing to drive their children rather than allow them to walk. These reasons include distance to the school, traffic danger, poor weather, and fear of crime. The survey also states that in 1969, 42 percent of children 5 to 18 years walked to school, but by 2001 the number had dropped to 16 percent.

Some parents make a point to take advantage of the event to walk to school with their children, and if they have days when this is not possible, they don't allow the children to walk either.

But in Baltimore where one mother organized a program called "Walking Wednesdays," there is a general increase in walking. People seem to be breaking the habit of always getting into their car. The Walking Wednesday program helps student total and chart the miles walked. In other years the kids did the equivalent of walks across China, Africa, Europe, and South America. This year, they are charting the progress across the United States.

See International Walk to School
See Michigan Walk to School
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Public Input Welcome for Non-Motorized Trails- Calhoun County

Battle Creek Linear Park (photo from Battle Creek Parks)

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from Suzann Flowers

Trail Talk in Calhoun County

Where do you want to see Trails, Bike Lanes and Non-Motorized facilities in Calhoun County? Give your input at a public meeting on Thursday November 12, 2009 from 6:30-8:30pm. This event is free and open to the public. The event will be held at the City of Marshall Public Service Building 900 S. Marshall Ave., Marshall, MI 49068

At this meeting attendees will accomplish the following:
1.Create a vision of connected trails in southwest Michigan.
2.Discuss the prioritization of projects.
3.Test the usability of the existing Southwest Michigan bike map.

This public input meeting will contribute to the progress of the 9-county Non-Motorized Transportation Plan for Southwest Michigan. The 9-county plan will be utilized by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), local officials and advocacy groups to prioritize non-motorized investments in the region and will provide a vision for a non-motorized transportation network that will be used to secure private and governmental funding for implementation. Plan development is being funded by MDOT.

The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission (SWMPC) is facilitating and writing the 9-county plan with assistance from the Southwest Michigan Alliance for Recreation Trails (SMART). The SWMPC is working with several partners to develop the plan, including Calhoun County Road Commission, Fort Custer Horse Friends Association, the North Country Trail Chief Noonday Chapter, the Calhoun County Trailway Alliance, and the City of Marshall along with many others.

Let’s work together to create a connected non-motorized trail system!

See Southwest Michigan Planning Commission
Contact Suzann Flowers
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The Forks State Forest Campground Closed

a primitive State Forest campground (photo by JHY)

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

Due to budget woes, six Lower Peninsula (and six Upper) State Forest Campgrounds were closed this year. The hope is that these closures are temporary, but it's not looking good for next year either. The Forks, near Traverse City, is one of the casualties.

The other LP sites which were ordered closed in May 2009 are Thunder Bay River, Alpena; Twin Lakes, Cheboygan; Big Oaks, Montmorency; Lake Marjory, Otsego; and Muskrat Lake, Oscoda.

Funding for these sites comes from fees, on a first-come, first-served basis, and usually enforced by the honor system. With the cold, wet summer, revenues are down and even so the state is looking hard for ways to trim the budget.

Mary Dettloff, DNR spokesperson, said that the closed sites will not be re-opened in 2010, and more closures are to be expected. The state is passing revenue woes on to local levels, and there are no real solutions there.

Funding for the DNR also comes from sales of hunting and fishing licenses, which are also down. The only good news is that such activities have declined in Michigan less than they have in other states.

See Michigan State Forest Campgrounds
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Grand River 2010 Expedition

Grand River (photo from Expedition 2010)

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based on a news article from M-Live, by Aaron Ogg
and information from the Grand River Expedition web site

The Grand River is Michigan's longest river. Its basin is 5,570 square miles, has 18 counties and 158 townships. July 14-26, 2010 are the dates set for the next Grand River Expedition. Planners are drawing on experience from both the Grand River Expeditions 1990 and 2000. This journey of discovery will explore and document the problems and opportunities of Michigan's Grand River and its watershed.

Grand River Expedition 2010 includes a multi-disciplined team of scientists, technicians, historians, educators, students, environmental professionals, boaters and anglers, civic and business leaders, local, state and federal government representatives, writers, visual media specialists and private individuals from the general public.

But the organizers had been counting on financial support from General Motors, and the current economy has now forced them to look for more diverse sources of funding. "It's going to be on a budget," said Charlie Parmelee, river master for 2010.

The water team will paddle canoes and kayaks to conduct studies and specific tasks while on the Grand River. In addition, the expedition will offer presentations, displays and demonstrations to communities along the river in an attempt to interact with the Grand River and its people throughout the watershed.

See Grand River Expedition 2010
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Make Snowshoes at Ludington State Park

snowshoers (photo by JHY)

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a news release of the Michigan DNR

You are invited you to learn to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes at Ludington State Park, using methods similar to those Native Americans used for generations.

"Snowshoes offer form and function; wear them to get through the snow this winter, show them off as a decoration or give them as a handmade gift," said Ludington State Park Interpreter Alan Wernette, who teaches the snowshoe-making class. "Snowshoeing is an easy way to get outside and burn calories during the winter months and is an inexpensive and fun activity for all ages. If you can walk, you can snowshoe."

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes ranges from $90 to $160 depending on the style. Cost includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, top-of-the-line binding and personal instructions. Classes are designed to be fun and interesting.

All classes are held at Ludington State Park's Warming Shelter. Because this activity requires concentration over long periods of time, it is suggested for ages 16 and older. Note that some of the classes are split over two days. Classes are scheduled for:

Oct. 17 and 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Oct. 26 and 27, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Nov. 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nov. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nov. 23 and 24, 6:30. to 10 p.m.
Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dec. 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Jan. 7 and 8, 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Jan. 25 and 26, 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Class size is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, please call Ludington State Park at (231) 843-9261 or e-mail wernettea@michigan.gov.

A motor vehicle permit is required when entering the state park. Permits are $6 for the day or $24 for an annual permit, which is valid at any state park.

See How To Select Wooden Snowshoes
See Snowshoeing Can Burn More Calories Than Skiing
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Submit Your Funny Horse Photos

What are You Laughing At? (photo from Club Equestrian)

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a news release of Club Equestrian

Submit your best funny horse photos by October 20, to Club Equestrian. Voting by members for their favorites will begin on October 22.

No purchase of any kind is necessary. You simply need to register at ClubEquestrian.com and sign in. Complete Rules linked below.

The prize is a US Equestrian Federation gift pack. It's value will not exceed $500.00.

See Club Equestrian Photo Contest
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Fortune Bay Outdoor Skills Course

(photo from Fortune Bay)

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from the Fortune Bay Expeditionary Team

Saturday, October 24th 8 am to 4 pm
Wittenbach/Wege Center in Lowell, Michigan.

The Outdoor Skills course is a collection of outdoor skills taught buy experienced expedition members in both a classroom and outdoor environment. Skills include gear selection and uses, knot tying, fire building, cooking, water treatment, shelters, compass and map reading, setting up camp, rope work (including rappelling, ascending, rope bridges, and tyrolean traverse). The course is designed for the outdoors person with basic skills and wishes to learn more advanced techniques. The intent of the course is to provide students with an introduction to techniques used on expeditions of the Fortune Bay Expeditionary Team.

The class is $45 per participant or $80 per two person team. Limit of 15 participants.

See Fortune Bay Expeditionary Team
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