Traverse City Adopts Complete Streets Policy

Events Calendar

Traverse City downtown bike lane (photo from TART )

based on the Traverse City policy statement

This month, December 2025, Traverse City, Michigan, passed a new policy that sets the goal for all city streets to be "complete," which means they will be designed not only for motor vehicles, but will accommodate walkers, cyclists, and public transportation, all with ADA compliance.

"Traverse City aims to provide a complete and connected transportation system that enhances safety, health, and quality of life for all users." The vision is to create a network that offers safe and efficient corridors for travel for all modes of transportation, and to set metrics by which to evaluate progress toward that goal.

The policy sets city-wide standards. However priority will be given to "historically underinvested and underserved" neighborhoods. One percent of the annual city budget will be earmarked for this purpose, and all new construction, renovation, re-paving, etc must meet the new standards unless a clear exception is granted for a good reason. Exception applications must be open for public comment for 30 days.

The following performance measures will be assessed each year, including but not limited to:
• Miles of sidewalks with pedestrian-scale lighting
• Winter maintenance levels for all users
• Miles of missing sidewalks completed
• Ridership of local transit agencies
• Pedestrian and bicycle counts on streets
• Improvements in ADA accessibility and curb ramps
• Miles of completed Complete Streets

An article by 9 and 10 News cites the first example of the policy's success. Eighth Street was recently reconstructed, and it meets all the standards. Residents are reported to be extremely happy. There is also a picture showing the newly adapted street and sidewalk lanes.

See 9 and 10 News article


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Grand Rapids World of Winter Walking/ Biking Opportunities

Events Calendar

snow snakes (photo from Hey Michigan)

based on a web article from Hey Michigan

The World of Winter Festival 2026 kicks off on January 9, 2026 and runs until March 1. The event is primarily a self-motivated walking tour to see dozens of art installations scattered throughout downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. It bills itself as the largest free winter festival in the United States. To enjoy art of all kinds, food, and economic stimulation are the primary pursuits.

However, there are several planned activities which fall more into the hiking or outdoor recreation category.

There is an ongoing scavenger hunt with weekly prizes. This is open to individuals or teams. The hunt can be completed at your own pace during festival hours. Missions take approximately 1–2 hours to complete and points earned enter you into weekly prize draws. Teams can consist of any number of participants. A mobile device with the GooseChase app is required

A number of guided walks to various art istallations are being offered. The event calendar lists more dates than the event links. The certain dates for these are:
• January 23, 6-7 pm. Meet at Rosa Parks Circle. Led by Candice Smith who will share the stories and inspiration behind each piece. Free. No registration needed.
• February 6- same info as above.
• February 14- same info as above.
• February 26- same info as above.
• February 21- 3-4 pm. Meet at Rosa Parks Circle. Window display walking tour. Learn the stories behind each installation, meet the creative minds behind the art, and discover the businesses and historic buildings that host them.
• Other dates for guided walks are listed on the pdf calendar, but no information is available about them.

There is a luminary group bike ride to explore Grand Rapids by bike under luminary lights! This is free and open to riders 18 and older. Helmets are required. Post-ride celebration is also free. See complete details at Luminary Bike Ride

Also of possible interest to outdoor enthusiasts is a Snow Snake competition. This will be held February 28 from 11 am - 4 pm. Experience a traditional northern Native American winter game at this thrilling Snow Snake Competition. Competitors slide handcrafted “snow snakes” down a long snow trough, aiming for the farthest throw.

Participants of all ages can compete in brackets, and the overall winner takes home a $1,000 grand prize. Practice snakes are available for beginners, making this event fun for spectators and first-time throwers alike. Register on-site. Event held at Sixth Stree Park, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Cost not stated.

See World of Winter official website


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Walkability of US 10-31 Discussed

there are no sidewalks on Ludington Avenue east of the Hospital, or beyond (photo by JHY)

based on a story in the Ludington Daily News, July 25, 2014

Harry Burkholder, a community planner with the Land Information Access Association, recently facilitated a three-day session to discuss the walkability of the US 10-31 corridor between Ludington and Scottville. As many people are aware, pedestrians and cyclists use these seven miles of road all the time, but they are neither safe nor happy doing so. The worn and wandering pathways through dirt and grass show just how much foot traffic the corridor sustains.

This type of session, called a charrette, brings together designers, interested parties and citizens to look at a particular problem. "We are looking at ways Pere Marquette Township and the county could work on a joint planning effort, "Burkholder said.

Citizens input included requests for fewer curb cuts and driveways. Zoning could be used to create uniform access to a pathway for walking and biking with uniform signage. Mason County already requires new construction to include such paths, which is why the new Applebees's has a short stretch of sidewalk that does not connect to anything. It's a start.

Burkholder suggested the formation of a corridor improvement authority which would function in a similar manner to a city or village Development Authority. He also suggested ways in which the improvements could be financed. He was encouraged at the turnout for the charrette. "You can tell people want to see change," he commented.

Read the article at Improve Walkability, Uniformity of US 10-31
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Even Moderate Walking Cuts Metabolic Syndrome

walkers on an easy trail (photo by jhy)

from a news release of Duke University Medical Center

Research from Duke University Medical Center shows that even a modest amount of brisk walking weekly is enough to trim waistlines and cut the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), an increasingly frequent condition linked to obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

It’s estimated that about a quarter of all U.S. adults have MetS, a cluster of risk factors associated with greater likelihood of developing heart disease, diabetes and stroke: large waist circumference, high blood pressure, high levels of triglycerides, low amounts of HDL, or “good” cholesterol, and high blood sugar. To be diagnosed with MetS, patients must have at least three of these five risk factors, and according to many studies, a growing number of people do.

But Duke Medical Center says a person can lower risk of MetS by walking just 30 minutes a day, six days per week, even without changes in your diet.

“The results of our study underscore what we have known for a long time,” said Duke cardiologist William Kraus. “Some exercise is better than none; more exercise is generally better than less, and no exercise can be disastrous.”

The results come from a multi-year, federally funded study that examined the effects of varying amounts and intensity of exercise on 171 middle-aged, overweight men and women. Before exercising regularly, 41 percent of the participants met the criteria for MetS. At the end of the 8-month exercise program, only 27 percent did.

That's encouraging news for sedentary, middle-aged adults who want to improve their health. They can simply walk around the neighborhood after dinner every night.

Those who did a short period of very vigorous exercise didn't improve their MetS scores as much as those who performed less intense exercise for a longer period.

Kraus said there may be more value in doing moderate intensity exercise every day rather than more intense activity just a few days a week.

Read the entire article: Moderate exercise cuts rate of metabolic syndrome
See Walk to Reduce Anxiety and Depression
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Isabella County Regional Non-Motorized Plan

urban bike trail (photo by jhy)

based on a news article in the Central Michigan Morning Sun

Norm Cox of the Greenway Cooperative has recently issued a report saying that the "best way to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety is to increase the number of pedestrians and bicyclists.”

Isabella County, Union Township in particular, has hired Cox as consultant to develop a non-motorized pathway plan for the region. Central Michigan University, the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and the city of Mt. Pleasant are cooperating in the project.

Cox’s firm is the consultant hired by Union Township, in cooperation with the city of Mt. Pleasant, Isabella County, Central Michigan University and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe to develop a non-motorized pathway plan for the area.

The plans are being made without regard to the political boundaries. This ability to create a region-wide plan may give the county a head start on creating a model system of pathways. Cox says this is unique in the state and that it will help with funding.

The plan calls for tying together existing bicycle routes, such as those on the CMU campus and in the city’s riverfront parks, with bike routes on or close to main roads, marked neighborhood collector routes, and wayfaring signs.

For walkers, it calls for construction of wide sidewalks in developing areas, and more crossing islands on busy streets. He said those make crossing streets such as Mission Street safer, as well as slowing traffic.

The recommendations include turning some four-lane roads into three-lanes, transforming the extra lane for bicyclists. Although this is likely to be controversial, Cox says that it makes the overall route safer because drivers become aware of bicyclists and pedestrians.

Perhaps the most controversial of Cox’s expected recommendation is to turn some four-lane roads, such as Isabella, into three-lane roads with wide, striped-off shoulders usable for bike lanes.

Long-range plans include connecting with the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail, which ends in Alma, and the Pere Marquette Rail-Trail, which runs through Clare, with a trail through Isabella County.



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Tails to Trails Raises $10K for Animal Shelter

shelter pet (photo by Animal Match Rescue Team)

based on several news articles

Isabella County’s Humane Animal Treatment Society raised about $10,000 Sunday for the operation of their shelter. The run/walk takes place each year at Island Park in Mt. Pleasant. Participants were welcome to bring their own pets, or to take a dog from the shelter.

The walk and 5 kilometer run use the Chippewa Trail system, with the run being staged in the morning and the walk in the afternoon. Participants who raised more than $75 received a T-shirt.

HATS Executive Director Jill Irving commented, "Many people who have adopted pets from the shelter use the opportunity to give back by either paying their own fee to take part, getting pledges from others, or both."



See Isabella County’s Humane Animal Treatment Society
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Labor Day Events at West Michigan State Parks

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a news release of the Michigan DNR

Labor Day may mark the unofficial end to summer, but Michigan state parks are still bustling with activity. As summer winds down, GO-Get Outdoors and take advantage of the long holiday weekend to squeeze in one more camping trip, bike ride or paddling adventure. Check out what's happening in Michigan state parks over the Labor Day Weekend.

Sept. 3
Wilderness State Park (Emmet County) -- Talent Show
Campers and day users will get the chance to show off their talents during the Fifth Annual Talent Show at Wilderness State Park, taking place at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the park's amphitheater. Donated prizes will be awarded. All interested parties may register with the park. Wilderness State Park is located at 903 Wilderness Park Dr. in Carp Lake. For more information or to register for this event, contact the park at 231-436-5381.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Cadillac (Wexford County)
The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park offers a 92-mile scenic biking trail between Cadillac and Grand Rapids. Learn to enjoy the trail to its fullest with a Biking 101 class scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 3. The class will meet at the White Pine Trail Cadillac Staging Area, 7184 E. 44 Road in Cadillac, where staff from Mitchell State Park's Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center will offer the basics in bike maintenance and safety. Participants will take a five-mile ride at the completion of the class. Representatives from McLain Cycle and Fitness of Cadillac will provide an assortment of bikes for participants to demo, and loaner bikes will also be available. Children under 10 years old should be accompanied by an adult. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 3
Biking 101 along the White Pine Trail in Grand Rapids (Kent County)
A Biking 101 clinic is also planned for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Rouge River Park Trailhead, located at the south end of the trail in Belmont. Learn about riding the White Pine Trail system, new bikes and bike safety. All levels of riders are welcome. Representatives from Ada Bike Shop, Grand Rapids Bicycle Company, Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition and Village Bike Shop will be present with demonstrations, safety tips, trail maps and more. In the event of rain, the program will be postponed or cancelled. For more information about either Biking 101 event or directions, contact the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center at 231-779-1321.

Sept. 5
Traverse City State Park (Grand Traverse County) -- 2nd Annual Labor Day Bridge Walk
Traverse City State Park is sponsoring its second annual Labor Day Bridge Walk (a mini version of the Governor's annual event). Join campers and park staff at 9 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 5 to walk the bridge overpass spanning U.S. 31 from the campground to the other side of the highway, then head to the park beach for activities and refreshments. Traverse City State Park is located at 1132 US-31 North in Traverse City. For details, contact the park at 231-922-5270.



See Michigan State Parks
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PM Township Could Buld Multi-Use Path on Ludington Ave

Ludington Avenue east- no place to walk (photo by jhy)

based on a news item in the Ludington Daily News, Feb 17, 2011

Trying to walk from downtown Ludington to the stores and services along the mall-like strip on east Ludington Avenue is a dangerous and uncomfortable project. Finally, there is a serious proposal to extend a walkway beyond Memorial Medical Center at the City boundary, into Pere Marquette Township.

Currently, in the winter, one can walk in the 5-lane road or wade through deep snow. In other months there is an intermittent muddy path, no fun to walk, and nearly impossible to navigate with a baby stroller or shopping cart.

Tanya Avery and Joe Maloney would like to see that change. Avery is the building/zoning/assessing assistant for Pere Marquette Township, and Maloney is a concerned citizen, retired from the Ludington Planning Commission. The proposed walkway would be entirely within Pere Marquette Township.

The first step, Avery said, is to get approval from the Michigan Department of Transportation. Then property owners will need to agree to the pathway, funding raised, and maintenance responsibilities assigned.

Ludington mayor, John Henderson, supports the idea. He sees it as a way to encourage wellness, and allow connections for everyone to the east side of town.

Many people do walk from town, at least as far as the Fairgrounds, on a regular basis. It seems like an easy assumption that if the experience were pleasant, many people would use the options of walking or biking to reach these destinations.

Contact Joe Maloney
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Walk the Dog, Get a Gift

from Subaru

On Super Bowl Sunday, instead of parking it on the couch for an 8-hour football marathon, do something good for you and your dog. Join us for the Subaru Game Day Dog Walk Event. It’s not only a great way for you and your pooch to get some exercise, but you just might meet some new friends as well.

Pledge to walk your four-legged friend on game day and receive a free doggy gift pack from Subaru, while supplies last. Go to the Subaru site to sign up and be counted in the dog-walking pledge, for Sunday, February 6.

Your full name and email will be required to sign up, and also the name of your dog(s). Subaru provides links to locate a dog park near you, if you are not sure where to walk.

See Subaru Dog Walk Event
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Annual Run/Walk for C.O.V.E. at Charles Mears Park

(photo by JHY)

a news release of theMichigan DNR

Charles Mears State Park will host a benefit beach run/walk on Saturday Sept. 11. Check-in and registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The 5K and 10K races will start and end at Charles Mears State Park and follow a course covering paved, hard packed gravel and beach surfaces.

All proceeds from the benefit run/walk will go to support Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (COVE), a non-profit organization serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and women and children who are homeless.

COVE is also known as The Women's Shelter. The goal of The Women's Shelter is to give women the resources needed to handle their individual situations. COVE is part of a state and nationwide network of shelter and support services.

The entry fee for the event is $15 per person if registered by Monday, Sept. 6, and $20 after Sept. 6, with special discounted rates for families. The first 150 registrants will receive a free event t-shirt and refreshments will be provided for all participants. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place female and male finishers in each age group for the running events and for the overall female and male first and second place finishers of the 5K walk.

"This is the third year that we have the races and the number of participants has been increasing with each race," said DNRE Park Supervisor Jim Gallie. "The course is one of the most beautiful that I have seen and it's a good partnership with Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters."

"Since 1979, COVE has been addressing the issues of domestic and sexual violence and homelessness in Lake, Mason and Oceana counties. The Women's Shelter has housed more than 7,900 women and children during the last 30 years. In addition to a 24/7 crisis hot line, COVE provided more than 7,000 clients with advocacy, crisis intervention, legal assistance and counseling. The proceeds from the Benefit Walk/Run will help COVE continue providing free and confidential services to women and children", said Lynne Cavazos, COVE benefit coordinator.

Register at Charles Mears State Park
or call Lynne Cavazos at 231-869-5939
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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)

if you like this article, click the Blip chiclet!
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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Colin Skinner Walking 6000 Miles for Hospice

Colin Skinner (photo from his blog)

if you like this article, click the Blip chiclet!
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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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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Beach Walk/Run, Sept 12, Pentwater

Charles Mears State Park (photo by Michael Turk)

a news release of Michigan DNR

Charles Mears State Park will host a chance to "GO Get Outdoors" at a beach run/walk on Saturday, Sept. 12. The 5K and 10K races will begin and end at Charles Mears State Park, with the races starting at 8:30 a.m., and follow a course covering paved, sand and beach surfaces.

"The course starts out along the picturesque streets of Pentwater, and then proceeds through the beach communities north of town," said Park Supervisor Jim Gallie. "The final segment of the course follows along the water's edge and, with Lake Michigan experiencing high water levels, participants should be prepared for the possibility of wet feet."

Proceeds from the event will benefit Communities Overcoming Violent Encounters (C.O.V.E.), a nonprofit organization serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and women and children who are homeless.

The entry fee for the event is $15 per person if registered by Monday, Sept. 7, and $20 after Sept. 7 with special discounted rates for families. The first 100 registrants will receive a free event T-shirt and refreshments will be provided for all participants. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place female and male finishers in each age group for the running events and for the overall female and male first and second place finishers of the 5K walk.

For more information about the event, contact Lynne Cavazos at (231) 869-5939.

See Charles Mears State Park
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Ludington, Scottville, Manistee Assessed for Walkability

Dan Burden of Walkable Communities

from a story in the Ludington Daily News, July 9, 2009

Ludington and Manistee are Port Cities, and Scottville has been chosen as a Main Street Community. These designations made these communities eligible for analysis by Walkable Communities. Since 1996 Walkable Communities has sought to promote walking as a cornerstone of a successful community.

The organization asserts that "walkable communities put urban environments back on a scale for sustainability of resources (both natural and economic) and lead to more social interaction, physical fitness, and diminished crime and social problems. Walkable communities are more livable communities and lead to whole, happy, healthy lives for the people who live in them."

Tuesday and Wednesday of this past week Dan Burden walked through each of these west Michigan towns, assessed their walkability, and then met with community leaders to share his findings.

For Ludington, he suggested an icon that draws people downtown; a better way for traffic to move from James St. to Ludington Avenue, particularly for trucks; energizing James Street Plaza, better signage, crosswalks and more trees.

Scottville, is in the process of creating a new image for the city through the Main Street program. Burden's ideas have been added to many of those plans. In Scottville he actually had members of the group spend time in a wheelchair, seeing the town from that perspective. He noted a need for more benches in town, proper outslope for sidewalks, and a more pedestrian friendly crossing of the railroad tracks.

Dan Burden is a nationally recognized authority on bicycle and pedestrian facilities and programs. He brings together many disciplines and issues - such as street design, traffic calming, public safety, bicycling, and greenways - into a holistic vision for creating healthy, pedestrian and bicycle-friendly communities.

See Walkable Communities
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Reed City Community Trail Mixer

a news release of Spectrum Health

Looking for a healthy activity for you and your family? Join us on the Pere Marquette Trail for the second annual Community Trail Mixer on Sunday, May 3, 2009.

The Trail Mixer is a community outreach activity sponsored by Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital that partners with the communities of Evart, Reed City and Hersey for this family-friendly event on the Pere Marquette Trail. Last year, over 400 people walked, ran or bicycled their way from various entry points along the trail between Evart and Reed City meeting in the "middle" at Hersey's Blodgett Landing for an afternoon of food, music and fellowship.

In addition, the event is designed to help fill the shelves of local food pantries by encouraging all participants to bring donations of non-perishable food items. Bring non-perishable food items to one of six marked entries along the Pere Marquette Trail between Evart and Reed City.

2 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Trail open and food donations accepted
3 p.m. to 6 p.m. – Blodgett Landing activities and food donations accepted

See Community Trail Mixer Brochure and map
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Mark Fenton to Keynote Planning for Tomorrow’s Transportation Needs

from the Kalamazoo Area Transportation Study

Mark Fenton is one of the nation's foremost experts on walking. He is a former editor of Walking Magazine, and currently hosts a PBS series, "America's Walking." He will be the keynote speaker at the 2009 Michigan Transportation Planning Association Conference, July 14 – 17, 2009 downtown Kalamazoo.

This year’s conference “Planning for Tomorrow’s Transportation Needs” is being held in conjunction with the Michigan Association of Regions and covers a wide variety of topics, ranging from freight planning to healthy communities to transit planning for metropolitan areas.

The “Planning for Tomorrow’s Transportation Needs” conference is also for those people interested in non-motorized transportation planning. We are excited to have Mark Fenton, a dynamic speaker and former PBS Television Host, on Thursday, July 16th to discuss the health impacts of walking and how to create a walkable community. He will also lead us in a discussion on working with the media, as well as a walking excursion in downtown Kalamazoo, highlighting the importance of Walkable communities.

See Kalamazoo Area Transportation Study for more information and registration materials.
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Wolverine Boots & Shoes Resolution Run

from Classic Race Management

Start your New Year off on the right foot on New Year's Eve with the Wolverine Resolution Run. Join in the fun with 1,300 runners and walkers as you celebrate the New Year. This fun and festive event will be one to remember!

The 25th Annual Wolverine Boots & Shoes 4 mile walk or run will be held December 31, 2008 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event is held at East Grand Rapids High School Gym, 2211 Lake Dr.

Advance registration packets can be obtained at Gazelle Sports and at Rockford Footware Depot on Dec 31. Late registration is possible at the EGR High School from 1:30 till the race begins at 3:30 on Dec 31.

The entry fee is $23, but for an additional $5 you can participate in the Charity Challenge. Each $5 will be matched by Wolverine and donated to the Pediatric Oncology Resource Team, and your entry will be placed in a drawing for the Grand Prize of an airline ticket.

Awards given will be: Overall Male & Female winners, Master Male & Female winners, and 5 deep in each age group. The awards ceremony is in Memory of Jack Edens.

See the registration form
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Walk For Warmth, Feb 23, in Four Local Counties

photo: Northwest Michigan Human Services Agency

Communities can rally to raise funds to help low-income families and seniors with heating costs with the Walk For Warmth.

There are many low-income people, maybe your neighbor or a family member, at risk of having their heat shut-off during these harsh winter months. We have all seen the increase on our personal home heating invoices. Families, many with young children, will have to make a tough choice between heating their home or paying other necessary bills, such as rent or even food costs. FiveCAP provides assistance to qualifying low-income households with funds raised by this annual "Walk for Warmth" fundraiser.

Walks will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. throughout FiveCAP's service area of Mason, Lake, Manistee, and Newaygo counties.

Pick up a pledge form at any FiveCAP office locations: Scottville, Baldwin, White Cloud, and Manistee.

A "Warm Heart Award" is given to participating organizations in each county who raise the most group donations. This traveling award trophy remains in their possession till the next annual event. Thank you for your support and participation.

Direct monetary donations are accepted year round. Contact your County FiveCAP Office of the FiveCAP Main Office at (231) 757-3785 for more information.

The state-wide Walk for Warmth fundraiser began with just one warm hearted man in 1986. It was a very cold winter that year, and Tim Kurtz was the Outreach Director of a Community Action Agency in Michigan. Tim began to feel the desperation of families when they would weep in his office because there was no help to keep their homes warm.

Tim decided to walk in his home-town streets for 24 hours in the frrrridgid February weather to understand what these families go through. What is it like to have no heat; to feel cold for 24 hours each day, he wondered? His walk made the community aware that there are many local people who need help with heating emergencies.

Since Tim's walk, warm hearted volunteers across Michigan have gathered each year to walk together and help their less fortunate neighbors with heating related emergencies during Michigan's sometimes brutal winters.

Here's how to raise $100 in one week!
Day 1: Sponsor yourself for $25
Day 2: Ask two family members to contribute $10
Day 3: Ask five friends to sponsor you for $5 each
Day 4: Ask five co-workers to contribute $5 each
Day 5: Ask one neighbor to sponsor you for $5

from FiveCap
See Northwest Michigan Human Services Agency
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

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Mason County Relay for Life - June 21, 22

Each year, across the nation, one event brings together entire communities to take part in the fight against cancer. That event is the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®. It's a time and place where people come to celebrate those who have survived cancer, remember those we've lost, and fight back against a disease that touches too many lives.

Won't you join us this year and be a part of Relay?

It's not just an opportunity to celebrate, remember, and fight back your involvement will help the American Cancer Society work toward a mission of eliminating cancer as major health issue and will support much-needed services in your community. Thanks in part to the donations from Relay For Life and other events, the Society is saving lives, helping those touched by cancer, and empowering people to fight this disease all over the world.

If you want to be a part of the fight against cancer, Sign up today for the Relay For Life of Mason County.

Our event will take place on June 21 & 22 at Oriole Field. If you're interested in learning more or have questions, please email us at jonathan.schreur@cancer.org or call 616.396.5576.

Thanks for being a part of Relay For Life!

from The American Cancer Society
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

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See Get Off The Couch