2008 FESTIVAL DETAILS

Festival Date: May 17, 2008 on the campus of Kirtland Community College.

Pre-registration & Registration Fee: There is NO pre-registration required to attend the festival. If you wish to attend the festival, just come to the Kirtland Community College campus on the days of the festival.

A fee of $5 for the purchase of a Kirtland's Warbler Festival button is required for everyone 15 years old or older for entry to presentations and for the guided bus tour.

All other activities are free and require no registration.

Guided bus field trips to the Kirtland's warbler viewing sites - Maximize your chances of seeing the elusive Kirtland's warbler. Ride a bus to nearby warbler habitat with naturalist guides on board to answer questions and enhance the experience. At the viewing areas you’ll leave the bus and will also see and/or hear many of the dozens of other native birds that share this special habitat with our endangered Kirtland's warbler. Please note that the Kirtland's warbler field trips leave from the Kirtland Community College Campus Grounds.

Field Trip Times:

Saturday, May 17 at 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.

Sunday, May 18 at 8 a.m.

Bus transportation with wildlife biologists will be provided for all tours.

Off-Campus Birding Field Trips

Tour of Camp Eldorado, a former Civilian Conservation Corps site - Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m.

Presentations - Nature Presentations begin at 11 a.m. and continue throughout the day on Saturday.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER - Rick Baetsen

FEATURED ARTIST - Durwood Coffey

Pancake Breakfast Saturday, May 17, 6-11 a.m.

Barbecued-Chicken Lunch Saturday, May 17, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Blue Water Ramblers - This talented band performs throughout Saturday bringing you nature-themed folk songs of Michigan and America, lively quartet harmonies, some mighty wind and their usual tomfoolery.

Kids' Activity Tent

Horse-drawn Nature Tours

Campus Nature Walk

Juried Nature Fine Arts Show - A juried art show featuring some of the best nature-oriented fine artists around takes place in the Kirtland House on campus. All mediums – paintings, photos, sculptures, even weavings – are represented. Spend some quiet, reflective time among the objects de art while enjoying a delicious snack and talk amongst fellow art lovers about your picks for "Best in Show" and "Best Of Festival."

Nature Arts and Crafts - Selected artisans displaying their wares, all with a nature theme. Pick up a souvenir, a unique gift for a loved one, or that just-perfect something to complement your décor. Download the application form

Mikenauk Rock & Gem Society and Kids' Rock Hunts - An extensive, fascinating and beautiful display of rocks and gems. These knowledgeable amateur geologists also sponsor a Kid’s Rock Hunt near their display, which will be inside the Student Center.

Kids' Fishing Pond

Whispering Pines Animal Kingdom

Silent Auction

Great Lakes Myth Society to perform Saturday evening, May 17

It's May already! The snow is finally gone, a few wildflowers are
beginning to bloom and the entire park is now open for all of our
visitors to enjoy. We've begun to see our annual school-age visitors on
fieldtrips and we are getting ready for the upcoming summer season. We
hope to see you out at the park this summer!

Hartwick Happenings, April 2008

Mushroom Hunting at Hartwick Pines
New Summer Hours
Hartwick Pines Base Ball Club Swampers
2008 Schedule of Events
Join the Friends of Hartwick Pines
Internet Contacts

Mushroom Hunting at Hartwick Pines
It’s that time of year when the Morel Mushrooms are beginning to
pop-up in the forests. Hartwick Pines is a popular place for mushroom
hunting. We have a lot of varied landscapes and forests where the
diligent mushroom hunter may find either black or white morels. Black
morels can be found in coniferous forests, especially spruce, and also
in sandy pine forests and burned areas. The white morel is best sought
for in deciduous forests such as ash, oak and beech-maple hardwoods.
Experienced mushroom hunters have their secret locations, but if you are
new to looking in the park, stop up at the Visitor Center and we can at
least point you in the right direction to start, but we do not promise
that you will find the mother-lode.

New Summer Hours
For the first time, all state park visitor centers will follow the same
summer schedule, to make it less confusing for people who visit more
than one park visitor center. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, the
Michigan Forest Visitor Center (and the Logging Museum, to keep to the
same schedule) will be open from 10am to 6pm Monday-Saturday and 12Noon
to 6pm on Sundays. During the remaining couple of weeks of our school
season (last week of May and first week of June) we will still be open
from 9am-4pm during the week to meet the needs of our school group
visits and for best staffing availability, however we will observe the
new hours on the weekends. Once our school programs are finished, we
will observe the new hours on a daily basis. Exceptions will be during
our special events when programs begin before the new scheduled open
hours.

Hartwick Pines Base Ball Club “Swampers”
The Hartwick Pines Base Ball Club’s Swampers, our vintage baseball
team at the park will begin practices on Thursday, May 8 at 6pm at the
field at the Picnic Area. Anyone who is interested in playing is welcome
to come out and try playing baseball by the rules from the 1860s. In
2008, the “Swampers” will be playing a full season of 1860s rules of
baseball with teams from Ludington, Midland, Port Huron, Walker Tavern
(near Brooklyn, MI) and Northville. The season schedule will be from
June 1st to Labor Day weekend and we will be playing 11 games. The only
requirement to play is to be in reasonably good health and enjoy
baseball. For more information or if you have any questions, please
contact Rob Burg, the club manager, at (989) 348-2537 or email at
burgr@michigan.gov.

2008 Schedule of Events (Additional programs and events will be
scheduled.)
June 1: Vintage Base Ball on the Road! The Swampers travel to
Northville to play the Northville Eclipse. Time TBA
June 7-8: FREE FISHING WEEKEND. Public fishing contest at Bright and
Glory Lakes. Time TBA at the Bright and Glory Lakes fishing piers.
June 21: Vintage Base Ball on the Road! The Swampers travel to Midland
to take on the Mighty River Hogs of Midland County. Time TBA
June 29: Vintage Base Ball on the Road! The Swampers travel to the
Irish Hills to take on the Walker Tavern Base Ball Club. Time TBA
(Change from June 28th.)
July 4: Independence Day Celebration. 2pm at the Logging Museum. Learn
about how the 4th was historically celebrated.
July 5: Michael Deren’s Past in Person Program: The Lumberjack! 7pm
at the Logging Museum.
July 6: Vintage Base Ball exhibition with the Park’s visitors. 1pm.
Come out and play Vintage Base Ball with the Swampers!
July 11: Jim McGrath: Live Animal Program. 7pm at the Campground
Amphitheater.
July 12: Jim McGrath: Live Animal Program. 3pm at the Visitor Center
Auditorium.
July 19-20: Wood Shaving Days. 10am-4pm both days.
July 19: Vintage Base Ball. Swampers vs. the Walker Tavern Base Ball
Club. 1pm.
July 26: Vintage Base Ball. Swampers vs. the Northville Eclipse. 1pm.
August 3: Vintage Base Ball. Swampers vs. the Ludington Mariners. 1pm.
August 9: Forest Fest. 10am-4pm.
August 15: Jim McGrath: Live Animal Program. 7pm at the Campground
Amphitheater.
August 16: Jim McGrath: Live Animal Program. 3pm at the Visitor Center
Auditorium.
August 16-17: Vintage Base Ball. Swampers vs. the Welkins Base Ball
Club. 1pm both days.
August 23-24: Black Iron Days. 10am-4pm both days.
August 23: Vintage Base Ball. Swampers vs. the Mighty River Hogs of
Midland County. 1pm.
August 31: Vintage Base Ball on the Road! The Swampers travel to
Ludington to take on the Ludington Mariners at White Pine Village. Time
TBA.
September 20: “An Evening at the Logging Camp” Lantern Program.
7pm-9pm.
October 1-31: Archaeology Exhibit of Hartwick Pine’s Logging Camps.
At the Visitor Center.
October 4: Hartwick Pines Challenge cross-country race.
October 18: “Critters in the Moonlight” Halloween Walk. Time to be
announced.

For more information about these events, call (989) 348-2537 or email
burgr@michigan.gov.

The Friends of Hartwick Pines State Park
The Friends of Hartwick Pines State Park is a 501 c(3) non-profit
organization that works with the park and museum to help present
programs and special events and to raise money to fund these programs.
The Friends of Hartwick Pines sponsors two annual festivals each summer:
Wood Shaving Days in July and Black Iron Days in August. The Friends
Group also operates the bookstore inside the Michigan Forest Visitor
Center. Many of the programs that we provide to our park guests would
not happen without the support of the Friends of Hartwick Pines State
Park. Some of the benefits of being a member of the Friends Group
include a 10% discount in the Michigan Forest Visitor Center bookstore,
a free subscription to the newsletter, The Pine Cone, and a Hartwick
Pines patch each year (usually designed by a member of the Friends
Group). If you want more information about the Friends of Hartwick
Pines or would like to become a member, please send an email to
friends@hartwickpines.org. The Friends of Hartwick Pines is
developing a new website: www.hartwickpines.org that will contain
information on the group and its programs added to as they become
available.

Internet Contacts
Hartwick Pines State Park and Logging Museum are jointly operated by
two agencies of the State of Michigan: The Department of Natural
Resources and the Department of History, Arts and Libraries. Each
department, has a website for Hartwick Pines. Visit these websites for
more information on the park and museum and also for other offerings by
our two departments.
Hartwick Pines State Park: www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines
Hartwick Pines Logging Museum: www.michigan.gov/loggingmuseum
DNR: www.michigan.gov/dnr
HAL: www.michigan.gov/hal
The Friends of Hartwick Pines: www.hartwickpines.org

Grayling Street Scape Stroll with Music and Dance by the McCombers

The McCombers are a high energy group of College students performing Thursday, May 1st in Downtown Grayling at the Gazebo. A great afternoon of fun!

There will also be afternoon and evening performances at the Rialto Theater. Tickets, which include lunch or dinner are available at Riverland, Flowers by Josie, J.DAP and Davis Jewelers.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2008

Contacts: Paul Kollmeyer 231-775-9727 or Mary Dettloff 517-335-3014

DNR Reminds Citizens That Spring Wildfire Season Has Begun

As the weather continues to warm up and outdoor activities, such as
yardwork, begin in earnest, the Department of Natural Resources reminds
citizens that spring is wildfire season in Michigan.

“The return of warm, windy weather has led to wildfires across
southern and central Michigan already this year,” said Paul Kollmeyer,
DNR fire prevention specialist. “It only takes a short time after the
snow recedes to dry out the dead grass and leaves to the point at which
they will easily ignite and burn.”

DNR fire management officials are urging everyone to use caution with
all outdoor fires this spring. As spring clean-up chores begin and dead
branches, leaves and other debris need to be disposed, the DNR urges
people to consider alternatives to debris burning, such as chipping,
mulching or composting.

“Wood chips can be used in other yard landscaping and mulch helps
enrich the soil,” Kollmeyer said. “Composting yard waste is a much
safer alternative than burning it, and it is better for the
environment.”

Burning debris in Michigan includes considerable responsibility that
begins with obtaining a mandatory burn permit. Permits are available
from local fire departments and township offices in southern Michigan.
In the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Michigan, burn permits can be
obtained from the DNR online at www.michigan.gov/burnpermit or by
calling toll-free 866-922-2876. Burn permits are free of charge.

Kollmeyer said persons who do burn should take proper precautions in
order to prevent the escape of fire. Evening is a safer time to burn,
when the wind has died down and temperatures are cool. Be sure to have a
garden tools and a charged hose ready for when it is time to put a fire
out or to handle any unexpected flare-ups that may occur. Never leave a
fire unattended, even for a moment. Flames escaping from burning debris
into adjacent vegetation are the leading cause of wildfires. Kollmeyer
also said that any time a fire starts to escape, the landowner should
call 911 immediately and not try to douse the fire on their own.

For more information on wildfire prevention in Michigan, visit the
DNR’s Fire Management Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnr-fire. The Web
site also contains a link to the national “Firewise” Web site that
gives homeowners tips on how to landscape their property to make it more
wildfire resistant.

The DNR is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use
and enjoyment of the state's natural resources for current and future
generations.

###

Contact: Tim Zigila
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable Canoe Marathon
Phone 989.348.4425
www.ausablecanoemarathon.org
aricm@i2k.com
P.O. Box 911
Grayling, MI 49738
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe Marathon
> NEWS RELEASE <
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EDITOR’S NOTE: COMPLETE ENTRY LIST, MAP GRAPHICS (.jpg & .pdf), PHOTOGRAPHS
AND MORE ARE AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA AND THE PUBLIC AT:
http://www.ausablecanoemarathon.org
61st Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe
Marathon July 26 and 27, 2008
Weyerhaeuser is back for 16th year as primary sponsor
March 19, 2008-Grayling MI
Grayling and Oscoda canoe race committees are pleased to announce Weyerhaeuser
Strand Technologies Mill of Grayling is back for the sixteenth (16th) consecutive year as the
primary sponsor of the annual canoe race held in July. “Since 1992, Weyerhaeuser has been a
great partner for the canoe race. With their leadership and support the canoe race has become a
world-class sporting event” said Joe Wakeley, race organizer. “During the last sixteen years
we (race committee) have watched the event grow in popularity; both with the competitors
and fans” Wakeley continued “we attribute that growth to the support of Weyerhaeuser and
their commitment to the community and the event.”
The Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe Marathon is widely recognized as the “Longest,
Richest and Toughest Canoe Race in North America”. Competitors paddle an average of fifty
paddle strokes per minute to finish this grueling race. The race course runs from Grayling to
Oscoda Michigan, covering over 120 miles of the world famous Au Sable River.

Contact: Tim Zigila
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable Canoe Marathon
Phone 989.348.4425
www.ausablecanoemarathon.org
aricm@i2k.com
P.O. Box 911
Grayling, MI 49738
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe
Marathon
> NEWS RELEASE <
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EDITOR’S NOTE: COMPLETE ENTRY LIST, MAP GRAPHICS (.jpg & .pdf), PHOTOGRAPHS
AND MORE ARE AVAILABLE TO THE MEDIA AND THE PUBLIC AT:
http://www.ausablecanoemarathon.org
61st Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe
Marathon July 26 and 27, 2008
Scott McNamara Ford-Mercury Time Trials to be held July 24 and 25, 2008
March 19, 2008-Grayling MI
The Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe Marathon race committee is pleased to
announce Scott McNamara Ford-Mercury of Grayling will again be the sponsor of the time
trials for the canoe race. “We are happy to have Scott McNamara Ford-Mercury back on
board as a sponsor” said John Lucey, Chairman of the Canoe Race Committee. “The canoe
race itself would not be as successful as it is without the support of sponsors like Scott
McNamara” continued Lucey “and we appreciate their support of this great community
event.”
Time trials are held to determine the starting position for the LeMans style start of the
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe Marathon. Penrods Canoe Livery will be the host site
for this two day event starting on Thursday July 26, 2008. Competitors paddle a looped
course on the Au Sable River and the team with the fastest time secures the pole position for
the race. Teams line up on Peninsula Street at 9 p.m. on race night and sprint three blocks with
their canoes and paddles to the Au Sable River for the start of the canoe race. Once in the river
competitors will begin a journey leading them through Northern Michigan’s pristine forest and
finishing 120 miles later in Oscoda MI.
The Weyerhaeuser Au Sable River Canoe Marathon is widely recognized as the “Longest,
Richest and Toughest Canoe Race in North America”. Competitors paddle an average of fifty
paddle strokes per minute to finish this grueling race. The race course runs from Grayling to
Oscoda Michigan, covering over 120 miles of the world famous Au Sable River. For
additional information visit www.ausablecanoemarathon.org

It Looks Like Another riding season has come to an end. What a great season we had in our area this year. If not for a couple of warm-ups with rain, it would have been even better. We also had a pretty impressive year grooming as you can see by the numbers below.

Thank You Groomer Drivers and Maintenance Workers !!!!
Total Miles Groomed.....5661 Fuel Cost.....$11,507.53
Total Hours Groomed.....773 Parts Cost.....$1,999.11
Maintenance Hours.....212 Repair Cost.....$5,950.14

The Final Quote for our new tractor and drag has been sent to the DNR for approval. We are confident that this will be approved and that we will have a new piece of equipment to help us with grooming in our area next winter.

Congratulations Rich Filley !! For those of you who have not heard, Rich has been appointed by the DNR to serve on the Snowmobile Advisory Committee. This committee works hand in hand with the DNR on issues relating to the Snowmobile Program in the state. Rich's position on the committee is representing the trail sponsors like ourselves. His years of experience as this clubs president will serve him well as he deals with future issues.

The Easter Seals “For Women Only Ride” was held in Grayling on Feb 8th - 10th and was a huge success. 160 ladies enjoyed excellent riding conditions and wanted me to pass along their thanks to all the groomer drivers who gave of their time to smooth out the trails for them. This years event raised $150,000.00 to help children and adults with disabilities. This brings the total money raised for the 21 years of this event to just over 2 Million Dollars !!

We Wish to Thank Bader & Sons for the use of a loaner tractor during this past season for several weeks. This took a big load off our other 2 grooming units having to cover the additional trail we took on this year.

Please Note !! This will be the last newsletter for this season. However, we will be holding two more General Membership meetings. They will be on April 3rd and May 1st . Both meetings start at 7:00pm and will be held at the Ramada Inn. Our meetings are open to everyone who wishes to attend. Currently our membership stands at 70 Family and 26 Commercial. Please remember to support our business sponsors on the back of this newsletter whenever possible.

AVSA Board of Directors
Pres.-Rich Filley V.P./Secretary-Tom Everly Grooming-Keith Miles Safety-Art Fissette
S.O.A.-Bill Weaver B.O.D.-Bob Smith Website/Treasurer-Rob Tomlinson

Visit our Website at: www.GoSledGrayling.org

Hartwick Pines Logging Museum. 4216 Ranger Rd. Grayling, MI 49738
phone: (989) 348-2537. fax: (989) 344-6803

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rob Burg, (989) 348-2537 or burgr@michigan.gov

“Vintage Base Ball will be played again this season at Hartwick Pines State Park.”

(April 8, 2008) Baseball has been a part of northern Michigan since the 1870s and the Hartwick Pines “Swampers” will again be interpreting this part of the local history by playing their fourth season of “vintage” base ball at Hartwick Pines State Park this summer. The Swampers will play a full season of ten games against other vintage base ball teams beginning June 1st and an exhibition game on July 6th, where anyone who is interested can take part and play baseball by rules of 1860. Come on out to cheer on the “Swampers” this season or even better, become a member of the team!
On Thursday, April 24, the Hartwick Pines Base Ball Club “Swampers” will be holding an informational meeting for anyone interested to learn about what vintage base ball is, the 1860 Rules, the types of equipment used, and how you can become a member of the team. The meeting will be at 7pm at the Michigan Forest Visitor Center at Hartwick Pines. Weekly practices will begin in May.
Unfamiliar with Vintage Base Ball? First, you will note that base ball was spelled with two words in the 1800s. Second, while cheering on players with entertaining nicknames like Iron Burner, Snake Oil, Scribe, Maestro, Choppers, and Splinter, you might notice that they are catching the ball barehanded. That’s right, no gloves! The baseball glove did not come into being until the late 1870s when the pitchers stopped tossing the ball underhand and started to throw it into the catcher, hard and fast. And now you can understand why they are also catching the ball on one bounce! That’s right, catch it on a bounce and the batter is still out. Also, you will notice that the players try not to slide or leave their feet, do not swear or spit and are respectful of the umpire’s calls. These are just a few of the differences that you will notice from the early game as compared to modern baseball.
Come on out and join the ranks of the “Cranks” (19th century term for fans) at one of the matches of the Hartwick Pines Base Ball Club’s “Swampers.” These games are free of charge, however a state park motor vehicle permit is required for entry to Hartwick Pines State Park and are available at the park. If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Rob Burg, the manager of the “Swampers” at (989) 348-2537 or by email at burgr@michigan.gov . Play Ball!

18th Annual Historic Artillery Match
On July 26 & 27, Range 35 at Camp Grayling will echo with the sights, sounds, and smells of historic ordnance, in use once again. For the eighteenth year, a long range competition with historic ordnance is sponsored by Loomis’ Battery of Michigan light artillery at Camp Grayling and the public is invited to observe the activities.
Approximately twenty Civil War and Spanish American War field guns are expected to take part in the competition, as well as a dozen Civil War mortars. The use of historic cannon in modern recreational competition began back in the 1950’s and continues in various organizations, most notably in the North – South Skirmish Association east of the Mississippi, and the Civil War Skirmish Association, from there to the West Coast. Since most all of the completions are tied to private civilian ranges the historic cannon have rarely been fired beyond 200 yards, until the Camp Grayling matches began in 1990. Now the historic guns are firing at realistic ranges up to 1200 yards, and their real potential can be appreciated.
The Civil War saw the first use of rifled cannon and they predominate at the 1200 yard event, but bronze smoothbores also attend, firing at a realistic 500 yard range. Also attending in significant numbers are the smaller class “mountain rifles” as used in the 1860-1898 period. Most are early breechloaders of 1.65 inch caliber.
All ammunition is inert, but impacts are easily observed, making it interesting for spectators. Targeting is both “bullseye” and simulated counter-battery. Field guns fire 15 shots for score and five at replica field guns built as targets.
Spectators get an extra thrill out of the mortar match since the balls are quite large—from six to eight inches—and are easily seen throughout their slow trajectory. Mortars fire at a downrange flag and the winner is the one with the aggregate of closest hits, computed as the re-useable balls are recovered after the match.
The event is sponsored by Loomis’ Battery of Michigan Light Artillery, which was founded in 1960 to study and interpret the light artillery of the Civil War. Spectators with any interest in the big guns of the past will find the program on Saturday, July 26th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. very interesting. A cash trophy rematch will also be fired the following day, simulating a documented event in January 1862 when the original Loomis’ Battery fired at a single newspaper sheet at 1000 yards. Also on Sunday, July 27th, a brief mortar match will be fired as well as a match for smaller mountain-class artillery. The Sunday program will end by noon.
The range can be accessed from the I-75 Business Loop to North Down River Road and follow the signs. The event is located on Camp Grayling's Range 35, located off of North Down River Road. Hearing protection, binoculars or spotting scopes and lawn chairs are recommended. There is parking at the site; the area is not paved and is very sandy. Concessions are available. Be prepared for lots of smoke and loud explosions; get a feel for what a Civil War battlefield might have been like. Competitors are willing to answer questions and talk about their various units. Ear protection and binoculars or spotting scopes are strongly recommended!


For additional press or competitor information, contact Matt Switlik, Adjutant, LOOMIS BATTERY 38 E. Elm Ave. Monroe, MI 48162. For spectator information, contact the Grayling Visitors Bureau at 800-937-8837

NEWS FROM: GRAYLING VISITORS BUREAU FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
P.O. BOX 217 September 2008
GRAYLING, MI 49738

CONTACT: ILENE GEISS-WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(800) 937-8837
WEBSITE: WWW.GRAYLING-MI.COM


Birders Flock to Grayling For Spring Viewing

The Kirtland’s Warbler. Bald Eagles. Trumpeter Swans. Woodpeckers
and whippoorwills. Hawks and hummingbirds. They’re all part of the
natural beauty of Grayling and Crawford County, which is making the
county the focal point for northern Michigan birding from spring
through fall.
“Birding is considered the most popular outdoor pursuit in America,
and Grayling is birder-central for Michigan,” says Ilene Geiss-Wilson,
Executive Director of the Grayling Visitors Bureau. “From Michigan’s
rarest bird to the majestic bald eagle, the Crawford County area has
loads of species as well as locations to see them.”

The Grayling Experience
Birding in the Grayling area and entire Au Sable valley can be a hugely
rewarding experience for birders looking to add to their life-lists, says
Peg Ridgway, president of the Michigan Audubon Society. Since
Grayling is the heart of Au Sable River Country, and the Au Sable Valley
harbors some of the best bird viewing opportunities in the state, it’s
only a natural choice to make the city a key role in developing future
northern Michigan birding opportunities.
Here’s a sampling of the current opportunities awaiting birders on a
visit to the area this spring:

Kirtland’s Is King
Michigan’s rarest songbird, the Kirtland’s Warbler, calls more than
150,000 acres of state and federal forestland home near Grayling in
one of the most pioneering and successful endangered species
management stories in the United States.

Again next year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the
Michigan Audubon Society will offer birders a chance to see these tiny
singers up close and personal on daily tours.
Tours will take place starting at 7 and 11 a.m. May 15-July 4 from the
Grayling Ramada Inn. You’ll first see a movie about the tiny
endangered songbirds, which live only in five- to 15-year-old jack pines
in the sandy plains surrounding Grayling.
Led by a FWS/Audubon guide, birders will then travel to sites known to
have warblers, says FWS spokesperson Chris Mensing. Tour-goers will
hike more than a mile over uneven sandy ground, which can be
challenging for those with trouble walking. No special provisions are
made for photographers, and no attractors can be used to disturb the
nesting birds.
At last count, there were an estimated 1,697 singing males. Thanks to
wise habitat management, which includes a vigorous cowbird-trapping
program, the number of warblers has increased ten-fold since only 167
males were counted in 1987 and 1974. Cowbirds are enemies of
Kirtland’s and other species, laying eggs in their nests that when
hatched, displace Kirtland’s young.
Habitat has been increased over the decades by appropriate use of
controlled burns and more recently, clear-cutting and re-planting.
Currently there are 153,000 acres in the Huron-Manistee National
Forest, neighboring state forests and Fish and Wildlife Service lands
managed on a rotating 50-year cycle to cut and replace swaths of trees
so the birds will always find suitable nesting. Each year about 2,700
acres are developed into nesting habitat so 38,000 acres are available
to birds at any time. For tour information, call (517) 351-2555, or go
to http://midwest.fws.gov/EastLansing/tour.html.

Other Birding Opportunities
The tiny Kirtland’s Warbler isn’t the only species to attract thousands
of bird-watchers to Grayling. Check out this list of places to go and
birds to add to your life list on a visit to the area:

Hartwick Pines State Park--Located just north of town, it is a top
destination, says park interpreter Craig Kasmer.
“One of the simplest and easiest ways to birdwatch here is along the
Old Growth Trail,” he said. Walking amongst the majestic old-growth
white pines along the trail is not only akin to meditating on foot. It’s
also home to more than 40 bird species, mainly songbirds.
Expect to see warblers such as the Nashville warbler, black-throated
green, pine, black burnian and northern parula. Other species
commonly seen include evening grosbeaks, juncos, pileated
woodpeckers, vireos, flycatchers, tanagers and others that call the
10,000-arcre park home. Other great birding trails include the Mertz
Grade and Au Sable Trails. The latter meanders through dense forest,
crossing the Au Sable River’s East Branch twice. For more information,
call the park at (989) 348-2537.

Au Sable and Manistee Rivers—These twin streams that rise from the
highlands north of Grayling also are excellent birding choices. There
are numerous public access sites to visit, and great opportunities on
both rivers for canoe or kayak trips from a few hours to a few days.
Along the way, expect to view herons, geese and several duck species,
kestrels, woodcock, bald eagles and others that call the river valley
home.

Deward Watchable Wildlife Site—This relatively undiscovered natural
viewing area is near the headwaters of the Manistee River. It was
named for 19th century lumberman and innovator David Ward, who
besides operating a lumber camp here, maintained what was then
reportedly the world’s second largest orchard.
There are several fisherman paths that lead from the parking area to
the river, varying from one-eighth- to ¼-mile long. Glimpse views of
bald eagles, redtail and broadwing hawks, in addition to loons, geese,
grouse and woodcock. The area can also be canoed via the Manistee.
From Grayling, go north on Old U.S. 27 to County Road 612. Head west
to Manistee River Road. Go north to the Cameron Bridge area and the
site.

Dyer Red Pine Natural Area—Originally spared from lumbering to collect
seeds for state nursery programs, it is a 20-acre tract of red pine,
jack pine and oak. More migratory birds make their home here, and
birders can walk throughout the tract that also is close to Kirtland’s
Warbler habitat. To find the area, take I-75 Business Route through
Grayling to North Downriver Road. Head east to Wakeley Bridge Road.
Turn left and continue on the paved portion east about 1½-miles
where the road makes a 90-degree turn north. The unpaved two-track
road leading straight ahead is Dyer Truck Trail. Drive in, park, and
enjoy.

Mason Tract Pathway—This more than 12-mile pathway through the
dense valley floor of the South Branch of the Au Sable leads from just
north of a parking area at the river’s banks at Chase Bridge to end
near Canoe Harbor Campground. The trail is for hiking only and
provides beautiful views of the river and birds that range from
waterfowl to woodpeckers, both downy and pileated, whippoorwills,
grouse, hummingbirds and many others.

W.J. Beal Plantation—This area was named after a Michigan State
University botany professor and was an 1888 experiment to reforest
the region with a variety of trees. More than 40 types exist in this
small setting. “Supercanopy” birds including warblers also make the
red pine, spruce, dogwood, birch and other species home. To find the
plantation, head east from Grayling on M-72 to Industrial Drive, and
head south, or right, to the plantation area.

Rayburn Estate—Willed to the State Department of Natural Resources
Forest Management Division by its former owners, this prime example
of river habitat offers great views of the Au Sable River’s Main
Stream, a picnic area, and a bridge across the river. Multiple canopy
birds are common here, from river kingfishers, ducks and other water
birds, to tree-dwellers like warblers. To find the Rayburn, lead east on
M-72 from Industrial Drive and the Beal Plantation about one mile.
Look for a stone arched driveway on the north side of the road. Turn in
and follow it to the parking lot.

Wakeley Lake Quiet Area—This unique area surrounds one of the best
catch and release panfish lakes in the state. Federally managed, it’s
reached via a trail from a parking area just north of M-72 near Canoe
Harbor Campground on the Au Sable’s South Branch between Grayling
and Luzerne. A five-mile hiking and bike trail winds around the lake,
including a portion on a boardwalk over wetlands. Loons, eagles,
ducks, geese and at the lake’s north end, a heron rookery, are just a
few of the species birders will see, along with lakeside animals that
include wood and painted turtles.
There is limited walk-in lakeside camping. For more information, call
the U.S. Forest Service Mio Office, (989) 826-3252.

Hanson Hills Recreation Area—Operated by the Grayling Recreation
Authority within a 20,000-acre forest tract, the area features 1,000
acres and more than 35 kilometers of hiking and biking trails
meandering through the pine and oak hills on the city’s western edge.
Numerous songbird species also are present, says Director Justin
Andre. For general information on the recreation area, call (989)
348-9266, (888) 876-2196, or www.hansonhills.org.

Still more birding opportunities are available along the new Crawford
County Pathway Project, a paved biking and hiking route from
Grayling to Hartwick Pines State Park.

Make It Grayling for the North’s Best Casual Adventures!

For more information on the river and how to see it and its wildlife,
plus other fun in Crawford County, contact the Grayling Visitors
Bureau, (800) 937-8837, or www.grayling-mi.com.

Old U.S. 27 may soon be designated as a Heritage Route, the first step in including the old road in the National Scenic Byways program.
The old road was first designated as U.S. 27 in 1926. At its longest, U.S. 27 stretched from St. Ignace to Miami. The expressway from Lansing to Grayling was called U.S. 27 until 2001, when it was renamed U.S. 127.
The project is the brainchild of car enthusiast Craig Parrish of Lansing. He has been involved with the preservation of the former U.S. 66, which once stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Today, parts of the road in Illinois, New Mexico and Arizona, designated as Historic Route 66, are designated as National Scenic Byways. ”We‘re trying to get 27 the same status,“ Parrish said. ”Old 27, the north-south road, was like Route 66 in its heyday.“
Parrish said he now has the endorsement of every city and county except one that Old 27 passes through in Michigan, and he‘s expecting a resolution endorsing the project to come from that county (Cheboygan County), shortly.
Once he has that, he said, he‘s hoping the Michigan Legislature will endorse the designation. Parrish said State Representative Joan Bauer has introduced the resolution, with State Senators Michelle McManus, R-Lake Leelanau, and Tony Stamas, R-Midland, co-sponsoring.
He said he‘s convinced that car enthusiasts would love to have a clearly marked, historic route to travel, much as they do on Historic Route 66. Parrish believes that could boost tourism.
He‘s organizing the second classic car tour of Old 27 for August 19-24, 2008. Participants in this event can travel from Coldwater to Cheboygan, or join for only portions of the tour.

A new 60th Anniversary book commemorating 60 years of the AuSable River International Canoe Marathon is now available for purchase at The AuSable River International Canoe Marathon website

NEWS FROM: GRAYLING VISITORS BUREAU FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
P.O. BOX 217 April 3, 2006
GRAYLING, MI 49738

CONTACT: ILENE GEISS-WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(800) 937-8837
WEBSITE: http://www.grayling-mi.com

An Au Sable Canoe Trip Can be Magical
Two side-by-side liveries offer paddling and lodging

The soft sound as a paddle dips into rippling water, and the
mini-whirlpool it fleetingly leaves as it lifts, before you once more
plunge the blade.

The soft breath of a cool morning breeze creeping from under ancient
cedars sweeping over the water. The scent of pine and cedar
perfuming the air. The sight of ducks, mink, bald eagles, deer,
seemingly oblivious to your quiet passing. The laughter and company of
good friends and family, and the discoveries that always await around
the next bend.

Those images, and more, are what canoeing on Michigan’s favorite
paddling stream, the Au Sable River near Grayling, is all about.

Whether it’s a 2 ½-hour jaunt, a five-hour day trip, or an overnight
riverside campground stay, it’s an experience you, your friends, and
family will remember and want to repeat, like so many do annually.

Two liveries have anchored the banks of this storied stream for more
than 60 years. They are almost side-by-side: Borchers Canoeing and
Bed and Breakfast, and Penrod’s Au Sable River Resort, on the city’s
east side.

Borchers was founded in 1932 by Ernie Borchers—who also originated
the Borchers trout fly—and has been owned and operated the last 15
years by Cheri and Mark Hunter. Penrod’s, begun by the Penrod family
in 1939, has been operated by the Humes family since 1969, and is
currently overseen by Jim Humes. He welcomes the generations of
canoeists who come here each season for good family fun.

“You leave your life behind and listen to the water, see the ducks,
watch a fish jump out of the water and feel the sun on your face. It’s a
magical way to share an outing with the family,” says Cheri Hunter of
Borchers.

“We will have three generations of one family standing in our office
and the grandfather will tell us ‘I went years ago and now my son and
grandson are coming with me.’ People come to have a good family
experience and that’s what we provide,” she says.

“The nice thing about this trip,” Humes adds, “is that this river is
very forgiving. It’s about a four- to five-mile-per-hour current and
most of the stream is from 2 to 4 feet deep so it’s good for novices
and families.”

Borchers operates a medium size fleet of canoes and open kayaks.
Kayaks are fast becoming a popular way to tour the stream. Penrod’s
has a similar number. Hunter and Humes described a typical trip down
the river.

After shoving off from the dock, the Au Sable turns gently as Grayling
disappears from your stern and you glide past riverfront cabins. About
90 minutes downstream, stop for a picnic lunch after you slip under the
bridge announcing the old Rayburn estate, now owned by the State of
Michigan. The lodge is gone but a climb via stairs to the top rewards
with a great view of the river and use the picnic tables for lunch. There
also are portable restroom facilities placed there each summer as a
courtesy to paddlers. Near the Rayburn property, you’ll pass the
entrance to Mud Creek. Keep to the right to avoid backtracking out of
the Mud Creek wetland.

Between Rayburn and Canoe Camp access, cedar trees, named
“sweepers” by the locals because they stretch over the river from both
banks, providing shade for the river’s trout and other wildlife and for
their ability to knock unsuspecting canoeists into the river. Here the
river’s bottom turns gravely and the current picks up a bit. Watch for
mink scurrying along the river banks along with beaver, deer, and
overhead, bald eagles, kingfishers and ducks.

Burton’s Landing marks the start of the famed “holy water” stretch,
so-named by fly fishermen because it is revered as holding some of the
top trout fishing in the United States. Here, Hunter says, is where
canoeists can practice the river etiquette they learned at the dock
prior to their trip: share the river, particularly when approaching
fishermen.

From there to the take-out point immediately below Stephan Bridge,
you’ll pass islands, more homes, riverside campgrounds and more
incomparable Au Sable scenery.

That's as far as most weekend paddlers get before landing and meeting
their shuttle for the ride back to town. However, both Penrod’s and
Borchers can arrange longer trips, including five-day camping
adventures the length of the river to Oscoda. Many river runners now
prefer kayaks, she added. “They are very maneuverable and it’s very
relaxing to be in your own watercraft and go wherever you want.”

Trips start at $24 and up on weekdays, $30 and up on Saturdays in July
and August. Kayaks start at $18 per craft. Rates vary by trip length
and there are volume discounts. Reservations are wise in July and
August. Canoes come with cushions, a Coast Guard-approved PFD and
paddles, but Hunter says, life jackets are encouraged, especially for
non-swimmers, and are required for children age 6 and under and
recommended for those 12 and under.

“We encourage the use of life jackets,” she adds. As at all
Grayling-area liveries, an alcohol policy is strictly enforced.
One-six-pack of beer is allowed per canoe, and no glass containers or
Styrofoam coolers are allowed.

Once your trip is over, you can enjoy a bed and breakfast experience
at Borchers or a night in classic riverfront cottages at Penrod’s.
Borchers has six guest rooms, with a full breakfast that often features
Borcher Pie, a puff pastry with eggs and cheese and served with ham
and mini-cinnamon rolls. Summer rates run $72-$92 per room per
night. Penrod’s offers 12 cabins, including some with two bedrooms
and fireplace. They rent for $60-$96 per night for up to four persons.
Penrod’s also rents mountain bikes.

For more information, call Borchers at (989) 348-4921, or (800)
762-8756, or go to http://www.canoeborchers.com. For Penrod’s, call
(989) 348-2910 or (888) GO-RIVER, or go to
http://www.penrodscanoe.com. For more on the Grayling area,
contact the Grayling Visitors Bureau, (800) 937-8837, or
http://www.grayling-mi.com.

Make It Grayling for the North’s Best Casual Adventures!

NEWS FROM: GRAYLING AREA VISITORS BUREAU FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
P.O. BOX 217 March 10, 2006
GRAYLING, MI 49738

CONTACT: ILENE GEISS-WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(800) 937-8837
WEBSITE: WWW.GRAYLING-MI.COM

Grayling-area welcomes back trout anglers for another season

For the dedicated fly fisherman, trout season is the equivalent of
opening day at Detroit’s Comerica Park, the Super Bowl, the NCAA
basketball tournament and the World Series, combined.

“Armed with the essentials, thousands of anglers head to Grayling,
Michigan trout angling’s nirvana, to experience the magic of fishing
the Au Sable and Manistee Rivers, two of the most storied trout
streams in the Eastern United States,” says Ilene Geiss-Wilson,
Grayling Visitors Bureau Executive Director.

Often, anglers come armed with hundreds of fly patterns to try to
“match the hatch,” by using trout flies that imitate the mayflies,
caddis flies and stone flies that the brown, brook and rainbows of the
rivers feed on. However, with a little knowledge of entomology, they
can zero in on some basic patterns and lighten their loads.

First, a little bit on trout fly nomenclature for the neophyte angler. A
nymph is the underwater stage of a mayfly. Nymphs can live on stream
bottoms or vegetation up to two years. A “dun,” in troutspeak, refers
to the mayfly just-hatched from its nymph stage. They float on the
river’s surface usually with blue-gray wings that appear like sails
before flying into the trees. In the “spinner” stage, flies return to the
water to lay their eggs and die to complete their life cycles. Caddis and
stoneflies live under water as well. Caddis larvae build tiny homes out
of sticks, stones and other flotsam. Stonefly nymphs live on the river
bottom.

Caddis emerge like mayflies, but their wings are folded against their
bodies like a tent. Stoneflies crawl out of the water onto stones, trees
or pilings to emerge as winged insects and also have folded wings. All
three are harmless to humans.

One common trait to remember, Geiss-Wilson says, is that flies
usually hatch and trout usually surface feed most actively during the
most pleasant time of the day—or night. However, trout consume a
majority of their food as it drifts by as nymphs or emerging mayflies,
caddis and stone flies. Armed with that knowledge, here’s a brief
timeline of major Grayling-area fly hatches.

Now-mid-May—Hendrickson fly. Created to imitate the first major
mayfly hatch of the season. When water temperature reaches the
mid-50s in late April to mid-May, flies generally emerge in afternoon
with the egg-laying “spinner” stage falling on the water around 5 p.m.
and tied in hook size 14 to 16. Try the Au Sable’s Main Branch and the
Manistee.

Emerging at the same time is the mahogany dun or blue dun, a larger
(size 12 to 14) fly that often hatches into June, along with
gray-black-bodies caddis flies in sizes 16 to 18, and dark-bodied stone
flies.

Late-May-early June—Smaller “sulphur” mayflies predominate in
afternoon and evenings, so named because of their greenish-yellowish
bodies, usually in hook sizes 16 to 18. Early- to mid-June also starts
the height of the season with the emergence of the brown drake
mayfly, usually on hook size 10 to 12. Along with the mahogany, this is
the first major evening hatch, often from dusk to late evening. Best
rivers include the Au Sable’s North and South Branches and the
Manistee.

Also emerging is the green-bodied caddis fly and “yellow sally”
stonefly, with a yellowish body, generally in sizes 18 to 16.

Mid- June to mid-July—Along with an appearance by flies with common
angler names as the ginger quill and light cahill, the king of Michigan’s
mayflies arrives on the scene. The giant Michigan mayfly (hook sizes 4
to 8, usually on a longer-shanked version) is the largest to hatch on the
Au Sable. Living for two years in muddy banks, it finally emerges and
the river’s largest trout lose all abandon to gorge on these flies. Often,
you’ll hear big fish actually slurping or sipping in flies as they float by
or gather at log jams, which make great trout feeding stations. Also
called fish flies in some parts of Michigan, they both hatch and lay eggs
in late evening to early morning.

Flies usually emerge from late evening to early morning and anglers
often look like miners going to work because of the lights they wear to
find their ways.

Best rivers for the “hex” hatch include the Manistee and the Au Sable’s
South Branch. Also emerging in mid-morning is the blue-winged olive
in hook size 16-18.

July and August—Flies will be active in both early morning and evening.
In the morning, look for the tiniest flies to emerge, in hook size
22-28, and known as tiny white-winged blacks, or “tricos.” Emerging in
evening is the pseudocloeon or tiny olive, in hook size 24, along with
mahogany, snow and gray drakes mayfly.

Caddis and stoneflies to emerge in the afternoon and evenings include
cream and yellow varieties in hook sizes 12 to 16.

Along with the right flies, many anglers head for their favorite
retreats, from riverside bed and breakfasts to motels, which pepper
the region. Here are just two.

Hard by the banks of the Au Sable’s North Branch, Fuller’s North
Branch Outing Club has been catering to trout anglers since the early
20th century. It’s been given a rebirth under the loving care of the
five-member Fuller family. Todd Fuller escaped the corporate sales
world to help run the bed and breakfast. “It took about two years to
restore it to where we were comfortable to have guests,” says Fuller.

The fly shop originally was a general store built by local
lumberman T.E. Douglas, who arrived here in the 1890s to make his
fortune. As lumbering waned, he looked for a new business and looked
at the trout-filled North Branch. “In 1903 Douglas added six rooms off
the back of the store and began promoting the Au Sable as a fishing
destination,” Fuller says. Douglas opened the Douglas Hotel in 1916,
welcoming anglers from across the world. Henry Ford, Thomas Edison,
Nash, the Dodge brothers, Harvey Firestone and other famous
Americans were frequent guests. The hotel closed in the 1960s, and
the Fullers bought it in 1996.

Today, Fuller’s features 12 guest rooms. The common area has
8,000 square feet of maple floors accented by sugar pine molding.
Windows are original hand-blown glass. Exterior is all original pine
clapboard, left the way T.E. Douglas intended. “The only television is
in one sitting room. There are no phones, so it’s a step back in time, a
getaway from the buzz,” Fuller says.

“Of the rooms, the Douglas Suite is one of the most popular. The
Douglas family lived there,” Fuller explains.
The room with private bath features a porch overlooking the river.
Each room is decorated differently and in a different theme, from
hunting and fishing, to one even featuring old license plates and auto
names to honor the auto magnates who stayed here.

Guided fishing trips are available aboard traditional Au Sable
River drift boats, and there’s a full-service fly shop selling custom-built
North Branch as well as Sage rods. Instruction and rental equipment
for never-ever fly anglers also is available. Non-anglers can try
canoeing, or renting a mountain bike. For more information, call
Fuller’s at (989) 348-7951, or go to www.fullersnboc.com.

If there ever was a quintessential trout angler’s riverside motel,
Gates Au Sable Lodge is it. Founded in 1970 by the late Calvin Gates
Sr., and now run by son Rusty Gates Lodge is just six miles east of
Grayling.
“We’re off the beaten path. It’s nice to sit down to dinner and
watch the river go by, and kids love trying to feed the fish in the bread
hole,” says Rusty. The “bread hole,” got its name from kids tossing
crumbs into the whirlpool, where huge trout slurp them up.

Seventeen rooms feature TV and two double beds. A front door on each
leads to a mini-patio and the river a few false casts away. There are
benches, picnic tables and fire pit on the grounds. Rusty’s wife, Julie
runs the knotty pine Hungry Fisherman Restaurant, which serves
homemade meals for breakfast lunch ($5-$8) and dinner ($9-$35).

Guest enjoy meals looking at the river and bird feeders visited by
multiple species including hummingbirds. There’s also a full-service fly
shop with guide service and instruction available and a meeting room.
Rates are $85 double occupancy, $60 single.

Gates Au Sable Lodge is six miles east of Grayling. Take M-72 east. Go
north on Stephan Bridge Road to the riverside. The lodge is on the
right. For information, call (989) 348-8462, or go to
www.gateslodge.com.

For more on accommodations and other things to see and do in the
Grayling area, contact the Grayling Visitors Bureau, (800) 937-8837, or
www.grayling-mi.com.

Make It Grayling for the North’s Best Casual Adventures!

The Icehouse Quilt Shop is located in a building that was owned by the
Pennsylvania Central Railroad during the earliest railroad days. This
landmark was used to store ice for the dining cars of the trains. Ice
from nearby lakes was cut into blocks, transported to the icehouse and
stored for use during the warmer seasons. As refrigeration was
invented and automobile travel replaced trains, the original purpose of
the icehouse became obsolete. No longer needed to store ice, the
building was used to store beer, feed, and building materials. In the
1930's, Rasmussen Lumber leased the building from the railroad to
store lumber. This use continued by DuBois Lumber until Dave Wyman
decided to turn the old icehouse into a retail shop. The icehouse was
connected to an adjacent building which had been a clothespin factory.
Opened since 1980, the Icehouse Quilt Shop offers patrons the unique
opportunity to experience a bit of Grayling's heritage. Various classes
are available at the Icehouse. From wallhangings to large quilts, and
wearable art jackets, vests and tote bags. Several times a year
"guest teachers" fly in to teach cloth doll workshops. Hand quilting or
machine quilting, there's a class just right for you. Their
knowledgeable staff, who are quilters and crafters, await your
questions. Call for more information at (517)348-4821and sign up
today.
The Icehouse Quilt Shop has several events planned. They are all open
to the public. Some events are offered for a fee.