Mackinac Island Blog

Horses arriving on Mackinac Island

2013-05-05T15:00:00.000Z

I shot this video as horses arrived on the island on June 1, 2010. It's a sight that is occurring regularly right now and will continue through early June.

Nearly all the hotels, B&B's, restaurants and shops are now open with the remaining businesses opening in the next week.

Mackinac Island 2013 soon underway!

2013-04-19T20:00:00.000Z

Happy 2013 and welcome to the new season of the Mackinac Island Blog. Hopefully you've stayed up-to-date over the winter with our Twitter feed (http://www.twitter.com/mackinac) and Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/mackinacislandblog). If you haven't visited them, please follow or like them as they have more frequent updates both in season and in the off-season.

While the photo above was taken in early June, 2010, it's a sight that is starting to become common right now - horses returning from their winter break! With every passing week, the horse population increases until it reaches about 750, more than the number of year-round residents on the island (about 550)!

Have you made your plans for a visit this year?

2012 season wraps up, a winter visit offers new experiences

2012-10-22T14:30:00.000Z

With the 17th Annual Mackinac Island Great Turtle Run on Saturday, the Somewhere In Time Weekend and the Close the Grand event, the 2012 season on Mackinac Island effectively comes to a close. Some businesses have already closed, but most are in shutdown mode this week, anticipating one last 'pop' of business during the sold-out race on Saturday.

By nearly all accounts, it was a good season on the island, which saw tourism numbers increase, a few new businesses open and others upgrade their facilities. The ferry lines came to an agreement with the city which will hopefully result in stability for the boat lines, residents and visitors alike.

Years ago, a friend suggested that I make a visit to the island during the winter season. I have done so twice in recent years. If you've never visited during the 'off-season' and want a complete change from the summer crowds, I highly suggest a winter visit.

You can start as early as Thanksgiving and the first weekend of December during the annual Christmas Bazaar. New Year's Eve is a special time to gather at The Mustang Lounge and celebrate with the locals. February brings the annual Winter Festival. The Chili Cookoff and St. Patrick's Day are also opportunities to visit during special events that are much smaller and intimate than say, the Fourth of July or Labor Day.

Accommodations are available at the Pontiac Lodge, Harbor Place Studio Suites, Bogan Lane Inn, Cottage Inn (select dates) and Mission Point Resort (New Years only). The Mustang Lounge and Cawthone's Village Inn (reopens Nov. 28th for the winter) are open for dining and Doud's Market is open daily.

Arnold Transit will be providing post-season trips daily except Wednesdays and Great Lakes Air offers a quick flight from St. Ignace to the island airport. A taxi is available for the trip into town.

To get an idea of winter on Mackinac, take a look at the trailer for Ice Bridge: Mackinac's Hidden Season which is a personal favorite to watch when I miss winter on the island:

The island offers cross-country skiing on groomed trails, snowmobiling (especially if the ice bridge forms) and a quiet retreat from civilization during the quiet winter months, so consider a trip north for a vacation this winter!

Trip Report from July visit to Mackinac Island

2012-07-12T11:00:00.000Z

I have a big update after our visit to the island last week. Every year I take a look at what’s new on the island and this year there is quite a bit to report.

Downtown is seeing lots of changes, most for the better, in my opinion. One thing that can’t be denied is that business owners are spending money making improvements, upgrades or changes to their businesses. After several years of stagnation, it’s nice to see fresh coats of paints and new businesses opening their doors.

On Market Street, Mackinac’s Little Gallery opened in the space once occupied by painter Richard Wolfgang, who closed his shop in 2010. The new gallery is filled with Mackinac art and is worth a visit.

Several changes in food operators have also occurred this year. The Village Inn, a perennial favorite is now Cawthorne’s Village Inn and is operated by Grand Hotel. There are also 4 suites above the restaurant available for rent.

Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub (I always thought that was a funny name considering Sinclair was Scottish) is now the Huron Street Pub and Grill and is operated by the same folks that operate the Mustang Lounge. We had dinner at Huron Street and enjoyed both the atmosphere and our dinner selections.

Eating healthy on Mackinac has never been particularly easy, so I was pleased to see the owners of the Cannonball at British Landing open Twist–n-Sprouts. It’s an interesting mix of a salad bar (with a nice selection of items) with a frozen yogurt store. Two thumbs up for this operation, which I understand will soon offer a selection of sandwiches as well. I’ve always thought someone should make it exceptionally easy to make a picnic lunch and it seems Twist–n-Sprouts may be doing just that. Yes, the frozen yogurt is good, too!

Just east of the harbor is J.L. Beanery Coffee House which has one of the best views of the harbor with it’s large windows. It’s been in operation as long as I can remember and has changed owners a couple of times. I’m happy to report the new owners have updated the interior and seem to have a better grasp of the operation. It’s once again a favorite for us to visit for a light breakfast and a great cup of coffee.

Departing from the Yoder Dock behind the Beanery is the Ugly Anne. Formerly a lobster boat, visitors can now take a one hour tour enjoying a different perspective of the island. Operated by a former member of the Mackinac Tourism Bureau, the tour includes details on the island and it’s history. Video monitors and a pre-recorded narration supplement the tour. My only complaint is that the boat stays a good bit off-shore. I would have enjoyed seeing Arch Rock and Round Island Lighthouse from a closer perspective. I’m sure there are navigation rules to follow, so barring a change in course, bring a DSLR with a decent zoom lens. That said, I’d still recommend the tour, especially on a warm sunny day!

Baxter’s Coin Shop was closed for some remodeling and painting, but reopened on July 4^th. Nearby Frank Shama Gifts also closed last year and has reopened as a more typical tourist gift shop.

Work continues on The Bicycle Inn where McNally Cottage stood this time last year. It is scheduled to open next season, though construction has been nearly completed on the front exterior. I’m not wild about the Colonial feel of the building or the very high first story. It feels out of character with the surrounding buildings.

As many of you know, I was highly disappointed to see the small park at the front of the Arnold Line dock get bulldozed early in the year to make way for a large bike rental shop. I’m not against progress at all, but I do not like it when progress on Mackinac removes either park space or contributing structures to the island’s National Historic Landmark designation. This area now feels especially congested during peak times of the day.

If there’s one bit of good news regarding the park, it's that the large boat anchor that once stood near Main Street in the park is now located at the opposite end of the Arnold Dock. Hopefully it can find a permanent home where it’s a prominent fixture.

The view on Cadotte (Grand) Avenue looks considerably different this year now that all the large, old trees have been removed and replaced with young Maples. The old trees were removed after some received storm damage and when large branches started falling due to their weakened condition. While I realize this was a safe and practical step to take, I still feel a bit of disappointment every time I walk down the street. The upside is that you can get some great views right now that haven’t been seen in 50+ years.

The Detroit Institute of Art has installed outdoor reproductions of great art from their collection in a program called Inside|Out. There are nine pieces installed around the downtown area and feature information on the art/artist.

Grand Hotel celebrated its 125^thbirthday on July 10th and the Mackinac Art Museum in Marquette Park is featuring an exhibit with Grand Hotel art, artifacts and history. If you’ve never taken time to visit this Mackinac-only art museum, it’s worth your time. Besides the permanent collection, there are rotating exhibits and the Kid’s Art Studio, making the museum fun for the whole family. If you're an island history buff like I am, you'll enjoy a visit here.

That wraps up this long update. I’ll be back with another update in a few weeks with more news, changes and July 4^thactivities on Mackinac Island. In the interim, enjoy your summer and I hope you have some Mackinac time in your schedule this year!

Happy 125th Birthday to Grand Hotel

2012-07-10T11:19:34.000Z

Grand Hotel celebrates 125 years of hosting guests July 10, 2012. While you may have been built in less than 100 days, your builders laid a solid foundation that I hope will last another 125 years! Congratulations!

Fourth of July on Mackinac Island

2012-07-03T12:08:29.000Z

Get ready for a full day of activities on Mackinac Island tomorrow. Here's my suggestion for the day (many of which I'm doing):

9:30am - Governor's Summer Residence is open for tours (free)

10:00am - Stone-skipping contest begins at Windermere Point (kids games and family activities)

12Noon - Stone-skipping Pro's take to the shore and try to beat the 26-skip record!

2PM - Visit the Mackinac Art Museum (admission required)

3PM - Enjoy a boat ride on the Ugle Anne, departing from the Yoder Dock

6PM - An American Picnic at Fort Mackinac (special fee required, catering by Grand Hotel)

8:30PM - Board the Shepler's Fireworks ferry for a memorable view of the fireworks from the Straits. Boats depart both Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City.

Have a Happy Fourth of July!

(Photo by Mike Forrester, taken July 2, 2012)

World Sauntering Day created on Mackinac Island

2012-06-19T17:11:32.000Z

June 19th is World Sauntering Day. A day to enjoy a leisurely walk with a joyful disposition. W.T. Rabe of Grand Hotel created the holiday in the 1970's, according to Wikipedia 'to encourage people to slow down and enjoy the world around them.'

Personally, I can't think of a better place to saunter than the porch of Grand Hotel, which celebrates 125 years of hospitality in July. (Photo by Mackinac Island Blog Member Pam Schuch).

Round Island Lighthouse Open House set for July 14th

2012-06-12T19:30:00.000Z

Mackinac trip highlights from my July 8-11 visit

2011-07-14T01:30:00.000Z

While I normally don't write trip reports, I thought I'd share a few highlights from my visit last weekend. The highlight was hopping a boat for the ride to the Round Island Lighthouse Open House. The Round Island Lighthouse Preservation Society (www.roundislandlightmichigan.com) did a great job of organizing the event. Freeland Boy Scout Troop 323 played host to the visitors with scouts located throughout the lighthouse explaining the spaces and their former uses.

Once inside, I met two of the sisters who lived as young girls in the lighthouse. Their father was the last keeper prior to the closing of the lighthouse and had not returned since. Naturally they were shocked at the condition of the interior some 60 years later, but no doubt comforted by the fact the future of the lighthouse is now secure and under the care of a group dedicated to it's preservation.

As I made my way to the top of the lighthouse, I discovered that the society was flying American Flags atop the lighthouse and selling them as a fundraiser. Not wanting to miss this opportunity, I accompanied 'my' flag to the flagpole and watched it fly proudly atop the iconic lighthouse.

After waving in the breeze high above the Straits, it was lowered and I helped fold it into the familiar triangle shape. Back downstairs, I was presented with a certificate that the flag had flown above Round Island and amazingly, the certificate included a picture that I took in 2010 of the lighthouse!

As I was about to leave the lighthouse, one more surprise awaited. The son of the builder was visiting and telling stories of his father and the adventure of building the lighthouse! Wondering about the fact that the lighthouse was built in 1895 and this was the builder's son, I later confirmed that he was born when his father was 70 years old!

After the quick ride back to town, I ventured out to the new Mackinac Community Equestrian Center, operated by the Mackinac Horsemen's Association (www.mackinachorses.org). For the first time in recent history, there is a community stable that has room to house not only the 4-H horses, but horses belonging to island residents that may not have a stable in their backyard.

While there is still a good bit of work to complete on the interior, there are already about 20 stalls available. Riding classes are forming and island residents, young and old, are provided an opportunity to learn more about the horse power that moves Mackinac Island. Below is Blaze, a pony that lives year-round on the island.

Located across from the Wawashkamo Golf Course on British Landing Road, the site is large, features turnouts and a multi-purpose arena. The land is owned by Mackinac Island State Park Commission and is leased to the Mackinac Horsemen's Association. Naturally this is an expensive undertaking, so donations are accepted to help pay for this wonderful addition to the island.

On Sunday morning, I hiked up the West Bluff and Pontiac Trail before walking back to town on Algonquin Street. You can see many of the West Bluff home stables along Algonquin.

Later in the day, I made a visit to the Tower Museum at Mission Point Resort. It costs $5 to visit and is worth the admission. I spent about 60 minutes reviewing the history of the resort (and it's quite a history), learning about the commercial boats that sail the Great Lakes, shipwrecks and lighthouses. Best of all, by the time you're done, you are 8 stories above the ground and have a fantastic view to the east, south and west. While a bit foggy during my visit, it was still a new perspective of the surrounding area. The camera is pointed west in the photo below.

As usual, a visit to Anne's Tablet was on the agenda. It's one of my favorite spots on the island. In all my visits, I've only encountered other people there once and yet it's just above and east of Marquette Park and accessed by the stairs behind the Mackinac Art Museum. In the spring, Anne's Tablet Trail is lined with yellow ladyslippers.

If I had turned 180 degrees after taking the picture above, you would see the actual 'Somewhere In Time' gazebo which was moved to it's current location years ago and is now used frequently for weddings.

On Monday morning, I paid a visit to the Forest King (a spectacular Michigan White Pine) on Rock Trail. It was described in Edwin O. Wood's 'Historic Mackinac' as magnificent back in 1918! I can only wonder how old the Forest King must be! I then continued to Arch Rock, then returned to town via Manitou Trail and the East Bluff. The view from Robinson's Folly along Mantou Trail is somewhat similar to that from the Tower Museum, but it's free and a few inches higher!

A few other additions to my 'What's new in 2011' post include a Christmas shop that has opened downtown near Mary's Bistro. A new coffee shop, Lucky Bean Coffeehouse has opened on Market Street across from the Police Station and is operated by members of the May family. The Pink Pony extended it's waterfront deck seating area so now you can dine right next to the water.

One last item. If you've never stayed overnight on the island, I highly suggest you try it. Saturday night had a forecast of rain, but in reality it was one of the most memorable evenings I've spent there recently. I had visited Stu Stuart and while returning to town, traveled down the West Bluff. The skies were clear, moon and stars bright and the Mackinac Bridge was twinkling in the distance. Do yourself a favor on your next visit (and if you already do this, you know what I mean), get out of town, hike up one of the bluffs in the morning or after sunset and enjoy the beauty of Mackinac.

Round Island Lighthouse Open House July 9

2011-06-13T14:54:38.000Z

On July 9th, make a visit to nearby Round Island and enjoy a tour through and to the top of Round Island Lighthouse. Each year, Freeland Boy Scout Troop 323 opens the iconic lighthouse from 10AM to 4PM and provides tours of the lighthouse, including the tower.

Charter boat transportation is provided for $10 round-trip, per person with boats departing from the Arnold Coal Dock (the dock just west of their ferry dock). Closed-toe shoes are recommended and you need to be able to walk on rocky surfaces and perhaps through a little water while getting in and out of the boat on Round Island. This is a very popular event, but the weather and water conditions dictate operation of the boat.

If you're on the island July 9th, try to make time for the visit to this historic landmark, built in 1895 and currently under restoration.

I'm looking forward to it and I hope to see you there!

What's new on Mackinac Island in 2011

2011-05-24T02:30:00.000Z

After spending several days on Mackinac Island last week, I’m pleased to provide my 2011 list of ‘What’s New on Mackinac’ for your enjoyment. While not exhaustive, it’s a good indicator of what to expect that’s new...or no longer.

Main Street was still relatively quiet compared to summer weekends, but many school groups find their way to the island before the end of the school year. I managed to snap the photo below at a low in group movements, but don't be fooled, they were everywhere.

First some breaking fudge news. Kilwins has left the island. It was located near the Lilac Tree Hotel, and one of the only chain businesses located here. But don’t despair, a candy shop called ‘Velvet’ will likely be open in the same space by the time you read this.

Sanders Fine Chocolatiers has opened a second island location at the corner of Main and Astor Streets, opposite May’s Fudge. A t-shirt shop occupied the space in recent years.

Moving across and up Astor Street is Steven Blair’s studio, where he sells not only his great photographs, but mature Mackinac Island lilac trees ranging in age from 3 to 8 years. As far as I know, this is the only location on the island that real Mackinac Island lilacs are available for purchase. The lilacs closest to the camera in the picture below are three years old.

Back on Main Street, The Pontiac Lodge building, which included the Loon Feather, Balsam Shop, Haunts of Mackinac, Texas Turkey Legs and Central Savings Bank was sold late last year to Ryba Properties. The Loon Feather will stay, as will Central Savings Bank. Balsam shop will also stay under a lease. The empty corner booth in the photo below was the former ticket office of Haunts of Mackinac. (see more about them below)

Texas Turkey Legs, which was located on Hoban Street under the Pontiac Lodge has closed.

Haunts of Mackinac has moved to a new location at Mission Point Resort.

The Chippewa Hotel has a new facade that replicates the original that was removed during the winter. During the renovation, all the Main Street rooms received wall air-conditioners and new windows. The hallways were remodeled and many of the rooms redecorated with new furniture, bedding and paint. In the coming days, work will begin on extending the patio area of the Pink Pony to allow more seating on the waterfront.

Across the street in the Murray Hotel, the 3-D Maze of Mirrors has opened. As if finding your way out of a house of mirrors isn’t hard enough, this maze adds 3-D glasses to make it a real adventure that kids and kids at heart will enjoy. Take their advice, ‘walk slow and keep your hands up!’

Moving into Marquette Park, a bit of sad news. One of the towering Elm trees bordering Fort Street was cut down, no doubt in response to finding disease. While on the island last summer, I met the arborist who was injecting the trees with a fungicide to help protect them from Dutch Elm disease, but obviously one of these magnificent trees succumbed and had to be removed.

At the other end of Marquette Park, some great news. The new Mackinac Art Museum opened last summer and is worth a visit. Mackinac Associates receive free admission, but even if you have to pay the $5 admission, it is worth it! If you love Mackinac art, this is the place! I strongly encourage a visit to this wonderful tribute to Mackinac art through the ages.

Many of the trees closest to the Grand Hotel were also removed late last fall due to disease. Replacements have been planted and right now is a once in a lifetime chance to get a view of the Grand previously seen a century ago.

I’ll also mention that work on the new community stable, located across from Wawashkamo Golf Club on British Landing Road, is nearing completion. The large barn and arena will house 4H horses and for the first time in recent history, accommodate privately owned horses.

Lastly - and a bit of an oversight from last year, the Cannonball Drive-Inn at British Landing is offering hay rides from downtown to the Inn for a BBQ chicken and ribs dinner, finished off with a hot fudge sundae! Sounds yummy to me!

So there you have it, the highlights of what I discovered on my visit to the island May 18-21. Hope to see you on the island this summer.

New Pure Michigan Mackinac Island commercial

2011-05-14T01:12:31.000Z

With the creation of the new Convention and Visitors Bureau on Mackinac Island, there's a dedicated source of funding to help promote the island. One of the first things they did was commission a Pure Michigan ad. Just like the other Pure Michigan ads, it features the voice of Tim Allen and the theme from 'Cider House Rules' but this time, it's all about Mackinac!

Book Review: 'Mackinac Island Ferry Boats'

2011-05-09T01:30:00.000Z

While I love to visit Mackinac Island, I still have to spend more time away from it than I’d like. To help pass the time until my next visit, I like to read books, watch DVD’s and surf the internet in search of anything related to the island. Fortunately, I’ve found a few treasures that I’ll be sharing with you over the next few months here on the blog.

The first item is a book that while promoted as a ‘behind the scenes’ book, is really more of a photo essay of Arnold Transit ferry boats. Loaded with more than 50 full-color pictures taken in what seems every season, this book chronicles the operations, people and boats of Arnold Transit, the oldest ferry operation serving Mackinac Island.

Bob Caylor, the photographer and publisher of ‘Mackinac Island Ferry Boats’ provided me a copy to review and tells me the book is intended for children and teens. I’ll disagree and say anyone that enjoys great photos of anything Mackinac-related will enjoy this book. Descriptions are kept short and simple and stay at the top of each page above the accompanying photograph.

From the spring return of the horses, to loads of freight to the holiday decorations adorning the Huron, Bob has captured the essence of the Arnold Line. I’ll admit my favorite photographs are the ones you would expect to find in the ‘Seasons of Mackinac’ calendar. The type you’d want to frame and hang in your Mackinac room. (Yes, I have a Mackinac-themed room at home, don’t you?)

I met Bob last summer while he was working on the book and can tell you he’s as big a fan of Mackinac Island as anyone I’ve met and it shows in this glossy, 8.5x 5.5 inch, 36-page booklet.

You can visit his website at http://www.decade6studio.com to view pictures from the book and order the book, which sells for $7.95, plus shipping. The book is also available at the Island Bookstore on Mackinac Island.

Spring is in the air

2011-04-20T18:30:00.000Z

The streets of Mackinac Island are slowly coming to life as business owners and employees start preparing for another season on Michigan's Crown Jewel. The Grand Hotel opens on Friday (April 22) with other hotels in the days that follow. All three ferry lines are running as they are now required to operate ice-to-ice, so access to the island has never been better, even during the off-season!

Soon many of us will be making visits during the Lilac Festival, Festival of the Horse, during one of the yacht races or foot races. While crowds bring the island to life, it's the evenings and less-busy times that I enjoy the most.

Have plans to visit this year? Share them here and please post your pictures during or after your trip. No matter how many times I visit, there's always some new and magical about Mackinac.

Win a trip to the top of the Mackinac Bridge

2011-03-03T21:16:59.000Z

As some of you know, I was lucky enough to win a trip to the top of the Mackinac Bridge in 2010. My wife, Jeanine and I made the trip to the top of the South Tower, 552' above the Straits of Mackinac. It was a most memorable trip. You can find pictures and video highlights here on the blog.

The Charlevoix Kiwanis Club was selected by the Mackinac Bridge Authority to raffle one of the few trips to the top of the bridge in 2011. Tickets are just $5 each (the winner can bring one guest) and the drawing will be held on March 29th. You can purchase your raffle ticket on their website at: http://charlevoixkiwanis.org/raffle/Mackinaw_Bridge_Tour.php

In the meantime, enjoy the video highlights of our tour last June...and good luck!

Take a ride across the Ice Bridge

2011-02-08T15:30:00.000Z

(UPDATE 3/3/11: The ice bridge has disappeared due to a combination of high winds and warm temperatures in recent weeks. While possible, it's increasingly unlikely it will reform this year.)

Take a ride across the ice bridge. Using a GoPro camera mounted to his helmet, the driver gives you a great view of the trip. You can also view the return with the camera mounted to the windscreen here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtOU6T-aKJ0

The Ice Bridge of 2011 has formed!

2011-01-24T21:30:00.000Z

Liz, from the Quilted Turtle Blog, wrote that the first brave souls went over the ice bridge on Sunday, January 23rd. The weather has changed pretty quickly this month. Greg Main posted the video below from New Year's Day, and it was just last week that Arnold stopped running boats.

It shouldn't be long before the old Christmas Trees have been placed to mark the 'road' between British Landing and St. Ignace!

Mackinac Island in 1944

2010-08-22T12:00:00.000Z

Here's an episode of James A. Fitzpatrick's 'Traveltalks' films that were produced by Metro Goldwyn Mayer between 1930 and 1955. Fitzpatrick produced over 200 of these short films that visited locations around the globe.

In this film, there's some great images of the island that capture a moment in time. Be sure to notice the dirt roads and condition of the Biddle House, the oldest home on the island. In some ways, the island has changed little, in other shots, you can easily see the differences in the last 66 years!

Round Island Lighthouse preservation moves forward

2010-08-19T12:30:00.000Z

If you are on Mackinac Island this Saturday, August 21st, make sure to visit Windermere Point at 10:30am for a special event. After years of work and the formation of the Round Island Lighthouse Preservation Society, the Society ,the US Forest Service and the Hiawatha National Forest will sign a Memorandum of Understanding. The MOU, as it is known, recognizes the Society as the cooperating preservation organization for the Round Island Lighthouse.

This is an important step in the preservation of one of Mackinac’s most photographed landmarks, which by the way is within the city limits of Mackinac Island.

According to the Society, the origin of the Round Island Lighthouses Preservation Society dates back to the 2008 second annual open house event sponsored by the Freeland Boy Scout Troop 323, US Forest Service and a small of group of passionate lighthouse preservationists.

Recognizing the success of the first two annual open house events, Steve Christensen, then Eastside Hiawatha National Forest Director, mentioned that Round Island Lighthouse did not have formal organization sponsoring preservation of the lighthouse, a goal that he wished to see occur.

Formal discussion among current and former Scout leaders and lighthouse preservationists began in October of 2008 at the Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival with a commitment to form the Round Island Lighthouse Preservation Society.

Chuck Eckenstahler along with Ann Doyle and Brad Mrozinski incorporated the Society in January 2009. Eckenstahler prepared bylaws and served as Chair for the March 2009 organizational meeting in which five Board members were seated - Chair, Ann Doyle (Freeland MI),Vice-Chair Matt McMullen, (Birch Run, MI), Treasurer Dave Mack, (Saginaw, MI), Secretary Pat Eckenstahler (Long Beach, IN) and member Brad Mrozinski (Saginaw, MI).

As a Michigan Nonprofit Corporation, Eckenstahler filed for and received, in July 2009, an Internal Revenue Service 501 (c) 3 designation providing tax exempt status and ability to accept charitable tax deductible contributions.

To formalize the Preservation Society partnership with the US Forest Service a Memorandum of Understanding has been prepared for signature on August 21, 2010. This documents the cooperative process that will guide actions of the Society and Forest Service to preserve the lighthouse and grounds, document its history and provide public access.

Additional information can be found at the Round Lighthouse Preservation Society web site at www.roundislandlightmichigan.com.

New for 2010 on Mackinac Island

2010-07-06T12:30:00.000Z

The nature of Mackinac Island is that it doesn't change too much. It's historic buildings, fort, cottages and natural landmarks keep fans returning time and again. But like any tourism destination, some change is inevitable and even good (especially if it involves food).

After some careful investigation, which often involved repeated visits to some establishments, here's my list of what's new on Mackinac Island this season.

The big news is the opening of the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum. Housed in the former Indian Dormitory at the east end of Marquette Park, this museum provides a showcase of Mackinac-related artwork from the last two centuries, including some Native American artifacts recovered on the site of the museum. The lower level of the museum features the Kids' Art Center that allows young participants to work with a variety of media to create their own Mackinac-inspired art!

To coincide with the opening of the Art Museum, Mackinac Parks is hosting the Grand Mackinac Antiques Appraisal Showon July 15. If you've ever watched 'Antiques Road Show' you'll probably want to attend the Mackinac Island version. Proceeds benefit Mackinac Associates, a non-profit group that helps preserve Mackinac's rich history.

New lodging is available at the Voyageur Inn, located at the end of Bogan Lane. The inn is managed by Bogan Lane Inn and has a three-night minimum stay.

The Butterfly House, a longtime island attraction, has opened a downtown gift shop and ticket center. Located on Main Street, the shop is between Martha's Sweet Shop and OrrKids Bikes.

A popular island restaurant has changed ownership. Three Brothers Sarducci is now Island Slice Pizza and I'll attest that it's good pizza!

For those wanting a taste previously not available on the island, Texas Turkey Legs has opened on Hoban Street next to the Village Inn. In addition to the giant turkey legs, they also offer fish tacos, roasted corn and even sweet tea!

Goodfellows WIngs and Things, located in the Lake View Hotel, expanded over the winter, converting the former 'Sticky Paws' shop into an outdoor patio area facing Hoban Street.

A few other new additions to the island include Photos By Blair, owned by Steven Blair, opened on Astor Street across from the Mustang Lounge.

Mackinac Island Bike Shop is advertising tours of the island, but at present are being delayed pending approval of the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, which regulates tour groups operating within the park.

The Biddle House on Market Street, one of the historic downtown buildings operated by Mackinac State Historic Parks had barriers removed from the kitchen area. Visitors can now interact with the interpreters and even help with the baking, cooking and cleaning!

We also found painters putting a new color on the Mackinac Island Public Library. We found the color fits the library well, especially if you've ever been inside. It's one of my favorite spots on the island to relax.

For an island that firmly plants itself in the past, it's good to see a few things that are new and benefit the visitor and resident alike. I hope you'll take time to visit the new Mackinac Art Museum, along with the other listings I've included.

I've tried to be thorough in my list, but if I've left something off that is new in 2010, please let me know!

Mackinac Art Museum opens ahead of schedule

2010-07-04T13:00:00.000Z

After months of hard work and receipt of the Certificate of Occupancy, the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum opened Friday, July 2nd at 10:00am, nearly two weeks ahead of schedule. Just in time for the Independence Day crowds, the newest addition to the family of Mackinac Historic State Parks is certain to be one of the most popular attractions on the island. Housed in the former Indian Dormitory on the east side of Marquette Park, the museum has one of the best locations on Mackinac Island.

The museum brings together Mackinac-inspired art that has been created over the last two hundred years. If you're a fan of Mackinac, this is a must-see attraction. Admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.50 for children 5-17. Discounted admissions available with the Combination Ticket. Mackinac Associates are free. For additional information, visit their website at MackinacParks.com.(Photo courtesy of Jill Sawatzki)

Round Island Lighthouse Open House is July 10th

2010-06-27T21:00:00.000Z

If you are on Mackinac Island on July 10th, be sure to make the trip to Round Island for a rare opportunity to visit the lighthouse. Free tours will be conducted by Freeland Boy Scout Troop 323 from 10:00am to 4:00pm, weather permitting. The cost for round-trip transportation to Round Island is $10 and the charters will be departing from the Arnold Coal Doc on Mackinac Island. Guests must be at least 8 years old. Transportation to and from Round Island is very challenging for people who have difficulty walking or have physical issues that minimize movement. It is also necessary to transfer between boats and Round Island has rocky shores and pathways. Closed toe shoes are required.

The open house is sponsored by the USDA Forest Service, Hiawatha National Forest, Freeland Boy Scout Troop 323 and the Round Island Lighthouse Preservation Society.

I had the chance to visit the lighthouse a few weekends ago and it's worth the effort to visit. The lighthouse tower offers a fantastic view of Mackinac Island, one few people ever get to experience.

To learn more about the open house or to join the preservation society, visit:
http://roundislandlightmichigan.com/openhouse

I videotaped my visit to the lighthouse, so watch for that video in the coming days!

A trip to the top of the Mackinac Bridge

2010-06-18T14:30:00.000Z

On Thursday, June 17, 2010, my wife Jeanine and I had the rare opportunity to visit the top of the Mackinac Bridge. Each year, the Mackinac Bridge Authority awards a few non-profit organizations around the state with Tower Tour Certificates, which they use for fund-raising. Our certificate came from an auction that benefitted special programs in the Pinconning (MI) School District.

We initially chose June 15th as the day for the tour, but with the weather looking like it could rain, we were able to change the date to June 17th, which turned out to be a picture perfect day. We departed Mackinac Island on the 9:00AM ferry and passed iconic Round Island Lighthouse on our way to Mackinaw City, where our car was parked.

We crossed the Mackinac Bridge and entered the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where we paid our toll and then made an immediate right turn into the bridge authority parking lot.

After signing the releases, we were escorted by Loren to an authority van that he drove to the south tower, where the outside lanes in each direction were closed to traffic due to construction work on the bridge deck. We waited for traffic to clear before crossing the lanes to the east side of the bridge deck.

We were then shown the small hatch we needed to squeeze through to enter the tower superstructure.

After entering the tower, we made our way to an even smaller space...an elevator. I'm not joking when I say an airplane lavatory is larger! Both the north and south tower each have one elevator so workers can quickly go up and down the superstructure as necessary. It can stop anywhere for maintanence purposes and a ladder parallels the elevator should it break down.

Once you reach the top of the elevator ride, it's a walk to the center of the span, then up a ladder about 30 feet. Someone wrote directions exiting the elevator just in case you get lost.

At the top of the ladder (which passes through tiny holes every 6-8 feet), you emerge through another small hatch on the top of the tower.

The trip to the top challenges several fears; the fear of tight spaces, fear of darkness and fear of heights. But once on the top, those fears quickly subside as the gorgeous view of the bridge, straits, the UP, the lower peninsula and Mackinac Island quickly absorb your senses. The view below is looking north toward the UP.

I have caught the episode of 'Dirty Jobs' several times when host Mike Rowe visits the Mackinac Bridge. He also visited the south tower and the images I saw on TV were now in front of me. If you've ever seen the Grand Canyon in person, then you know how poorly pictures capture the real beauty and scale. I'd apply that same analogy here.

The paperwork stated we would spend 'a maximum of 10 minutes' at the top of the bridge. We must have been lucky as we spent nearly 30 minutes, allowing me to shoot digital stills and HD video to my heart's content. We even managed to get our guide to take a picture of the two of us!

Here's a short video I cut together last night from the trip up!

Find more videos like this on Mackinac Island Blog

It was a memorable day! Our thanks to the Pinconning School District and the Mackinac Bridge Authority for making it all possible.

Mackinac Island Blog/Grand Hotel Social Media Meet-Up is June 18th

2010-06-09T00:00:00.000Z

If you are on Mackinac on Friday, June 18th, you're invited to the east front porch of Grand Hotel for a social media get-together from 5:00PM to 6:30PM. The hotel will provide light refreshments to all our blog, Twitter and Facebook friends. Evening attire not required! We do ask that you RSVP with your name so we can place your name on the guest list. Otherwise, you will have to pay the $10 entry fee. Please send me (mike@mackinacislandblog.com) a note with the name of all attendees and we'll look forward to seeing you next Friday!

Horses arriving on Mackinac Island

2010-06-01T16:07:58.000Z

Grand Hotel readies for another season

2010-04-30T11:00:00.000Z

I found this video on the Detroit Free Press site last night and wanted to pass it along. Great storytelling makes for a great video...and it makes me want to head to the island this weekend!

Friesians on Mackinac Island

2010-04-11T11:30:00.000Z

Brenda Horton shared the link to this video/slideshow with me, and naturally I had to share it with you. Enjoy!

Arnold Line announces start of 2010 season

2010-03-11T17:20:13.000Z

Great news for Mackinac Island fans. The 2010 season just got a little closer with today's announcement that Arnold Line will begin service to the island on Monday, March 15th. Intially three roundtrips daily, with perhaps the exception of no Sunday service. The schedule is not on their website as I write this, so there could be some changes from the information I know at present.

Knowing that the ferries are starting is my unofficial signal that spring has arrived and that the island once again beckons. Can the return of the horses be far behind?

Postcard of the week

2010-03-07T13:30:00.000Z

Once again I'm featuring a view of the present day Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island - but it was the Moral Re-armament Assembly at the time this photograph was taken, which I would guess was sometime in the early 1950's, prior to when Small Point (B&B) was moved from its original location to where it rests today.

You can see the steeply gabled roof of Small Point just below and left of the center of the photo. If you click on the picture, a larger version will open for easier viewing. Small Point was one of three cottages on what became the MRA campus and if I remember correctly, the last one to be moved from the campus.

This postcard is also interesting in how vacant the land in front of the dorms (now the Mission Lodge) is just a few decades ago. You can clearly see St. Anne's church and beyond that, the white beach where the marina stands now. The large green area between the Chippewa Hotel and the Grand Hotel is now the Jewel Golf Course. A simple postcard, but also a glimpse into Mackinac in the 1950's.

Mackinac Island morning

2010-02-28T10:00:00.000Z

Each visit I make to Mackinac Island provides an opportunity for me to get up early and capture my favorite time on the island - morning. This is a short clip I cut together of morning life from a visit in June, 2009. There's no narration or music, just the natural sounds I heard while shooting the video.