Press Releases

NEWS FROM: GRAYLING VISITORS BUREAU FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
P.O. BOX 217 October 19, 2006
GRAYLING, MI 49738
CONTACT: ILENE GEISS-WILSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(800) 937-8837
WEBSITE: WWW.GRAYLING-MI.COM

Make Grayling your snowmobiling headquarters and you’re in for a blizzard of fun all winter. Why?
If you’re out for memorable scenic views of northern Michigan in winter the whole family can enjoy, they’re there.
If you’re looking for well-marked routes made for groups, they’re here.
If you love to rack up miles on your machine, and are looking for a central location that links to routes that will take you from one end of the state to another, they’re here too. For those reasons and lots more, thousands of riders head to Crawford County and Grayling for trips they can relive long after the last snow is off the trail.
Located in the center of northern Lower Michigan, Crawford County features more than 200 miles of groomed trails within its boundaries alone,” says Keith Miles, board member of the Au Sable Valley Snowmobile Association and the Grayling Visitors Bureau.
There are 14 motels that are members of the Grayling Visitors Bureau, 12 of which are open year-round and “sled-friendly.”
The association partners with other groups to groom trails all winter and also publishes an excellent annually updated map that not only details routes in Crawford County but also in parts of Roscommon, Kalkaska, Ogemaw, Antrim and Otsego counties. Trails are clearly marked, as are locations for gas, plus points of interest. Numbers correspond to locations of restaurants, motels and other area businesses catering to ‘bilers listed on the back side. And, while the map has a $1.50 face value, Miles says most motel operators offer it free to guests, as do
many other county businesses. Visitors can also link to trails at the Visitors Bureau website, www.grayling-mi.com.

“All of the trails are signed and numbered so well, that if you’re ever concerned about getting lost, that’s not an issue,” Miles says. “Another unique thing about Crawford County is the predominance of two-track trails that also are legal to ride on. There are hundreds of miles of those and with a map like ours and a
little advice from your motel operator, you can get out and away from the weekend crowds.”
Miles estimates close to 70 percent of the county is state and federal land. “We’re finding quite a few guests returning because we turned them on to those trails and they love them,” he said. All designated trails are groomed six days a week once there is sufficient snow.
The biggest departure trailhead is just west of Grayling off M-72. From there, routes radiate both north and south to tie with others that run in nearly every direction. Here’s a look at a few ways ‘bilers can romp in Crawford County snow this winter:
• If you’re a crowd lover, he says, come on weekends, and usually you’ll find plenty of company at the M-72 lot. Weekdays are less crowded.
• For a true scenic ride that will give you a taste of the area’s vast forestland, head north through stretches of beautiful hardwoods and pines near the banks of the Manistee River to the Blue Bear Trail that heads west, crossing the Manistee River on Cameron Bridge Road. From there, you can point your sled towards Kalkaska or north towards Starvation Lake
• If you’re looking for more solitude, head for the Lovells Trail head off Lewiston Grade Road. It meanders along an old railroad grade northeast to Lovells, where you can fuel up your body and your sled, and continue north to Gaylord, or east to Lewiston or south towards Mio or even St. Helen and the West Branch area. On a typical trip, riders can head north to Gaylord from Lovells, then head south to return to Grayling for a 60-plus-mile loop. Miles adds that there are many areas snowmobilers can “free range” through hundreds of acres of National Guard lands open to riding.
Miles says the Visitors Bureau website provides regularly updated, accurate trail condition reports, and even offers reports emailed to riders who sign up for the free service.“Our trail reports come direct from our groomer drivers and it doesn’t get better than that. We take pride in giving out very accurate information and if anything, we’re conservative with our reports,” Miles says.
Riders up for longer jaunts can head to areas like Atlanta, Hillman, the Boardman and Jordan river valleys and Indian River and be back to Grayling at sunset.
There are dozens of great restaurants to choose from in the Grayling area, and weekend entertainment is available, including at the Grayling Ramada Inn.
Riders coming up for area events such as Houghton Lake’s annual Tip-Up Town USA celebration can ride the entire distance from Grayling by hopping on the through-town snowmobile route and following their trail map south.
The Grayling Visitors Bureau reminds snowmobilers to ride safely responsibly and avoid alcohol on the trail. It not only affects judgment but can contribute to hypothermia. Always carry a tool kit, trail maps, waterproof matches, cell phone or GPS unit, emergency food and an extra key. Use extreme caution when crossing lakes and rivers. Always travel with a buddy and let friends know where you will be and when you will return.
In the event of an emergency, the Au Sable Valley Snowmobile Association maintains an Emergency Trail Location system throughout Crawford County.
Signs designating the route you are on, followed by a location number are at all road crossings and along the trails. They’re matched with GPS coordinates that allow Crawford County Emergency Services to find you. Just dial 911 and tell the operator you are in Crawford County, and give them the number on the sign.

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!

Grayling Is Heart of Michigan’s ‘Cross Country Country’
NEWS FROM: GRAYLING VISITORS BUREAU
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
P.O. BOX 217 Oct.19, 2006
GRAYLING, MI 49738

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

Grayling Is Heart of Michigan’s ‘Cross Country Country’

Whether you like to be challenged on the trail or are just out for a relaxing schuss with the family, you’ll find your passion in the more than 75 kilometers of cross-country ski routes waiting to be explored in Michigan’s Crawford County and the immediate area, including one that’s ready even when there’s no natural snow.

Grayling-area trails put you at the center of the Lower Peninsula’s “cross-country country,” winding through incomparable scenery from wilderness trout streams to historic virgin white pines that recall the state’s lumber baron past.
Within a 20-minute drive of downtown Grayling, for example, are three pristine trail experiences unique in the state, according to ski outfitters Dick Fultz, operator of the Cross Country Ski Shop in Grayling, Bob Frye, who with wife Lynne, operate Cross-Country Ski Headquarters a few minutes south of town near Higgins Lake, with the state’s only cross-country trail featuring machine-made snow, and David Forbush, who has attained a national reputation for grooming on his 37-kilometers of trails at Forbush Corners Ski Area near Frederic, just north of Grayling.

“The trails in our area are just fabulous and Grayling is a great central location,” Fultz says. “Within a 30-mile radius of town, you could ski a different system every weekend of the season.” To help you decide on trails to try during your visit, Fultz, Frye and Forbush compiled their own “Top 10 List” of local ski routes, so you can spend all day, or a few hours enjoying the Grayling area’s snowbelt from first snow to spring thaw.

Best beginner trail—In Bob Frye’s opinion, his own store-side ski trail featuring the state’s only guaranteed snow for cross-country is tops for beginners.
It’s part of CCHQ’s 19-plus-kilometers of trails. Doubled in length to two kilometers, it’s flat and a great place to check out new equipment and ski when there’s no natural snow. Also check out the lighted .8-mile loop at Dick Fultz’ shop behind the Grayling Ramada Inn, while Forbush says his 1 kilometer Pancake beginner loop is a good place to start, or brush up on your technique.

Best expert trail—Forbush Corner’s seven-kilometer “Roller Coaster” trail is very technical with lots of hills, and that’s known for its hairpin climbs. “David Forbush grooms it really well and for a lot of advanced skiers it’s worth the cost,” says Bob Frye. Forbush says its difficulty has been honed down, giving it a
broader appeal. Fultz’ vote is Hanson Hills’ Yellow loop, a tricky five-mile path winding through the Au Sable State Forest. Hanson Hills is run by the Grayling Recreation Authority, with 35 kilometers of pathways.

Most scenic—Frye, Fultz and Forbush agree that for sheer northern Michigan beauty, you can’t beat the Mason Tract Pathway. Located between Grayling and Roscommon, this nine-mile trail runs through the George Mason Wilderness Tract, given to the state by the widow of the auto magnate it’s named after. Parking lots are on Chase Bridge Road, south and east of Grayling off M-72, and near Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground off M-72. Follow the well-marked
trail along Au Sable River’s South Branch through untouched forest as it meanders towards its eventual meeting with the river’s main stream beyond Canoe Harbor. The trail also features two loops. Forbush likes Roller Coaster, due to its elevation—portions are at 1,300 feet above sea level, and scenic sugar maples and older pines. Others include the skier-set Wakeley Lake Pathway east of Grayling and trails at North and South Higgins Lake state parks.

Best short trail—Among the 18 miles of routes in Hartwick Pines State Park, the Old Growth Trail winds through the majestic 200-foot-tall pines and past a replica logging camp. Or, try the three-mile Au Sable River Footpath, a skier-set trail that twice crosses the East Branch of the Au Sable River. Snowshoers can also try the Old Growth Trail.

Longest—The 12-kilometer (about 8.4 miles) Red Loop at Hanson Hills, a real lung-burner that loops around the Hanson Hills system.

Hilliest—Hanson Hills’ 12-kilometer Red Loop again is a great title contender. Others include Forbush Corner’s aptly named Rollercoaster and Screamer, a hill on the West Trail system, along with Stinker, that adds 2.5 kilometers. “Stinker is like going up a wall. We groom it going downhill because you can’t get the groomer up it,” Forbush says. Both systems are groomed for both classic and skating and rentals are available.

Flattest—Cross-country Ski Headquarters’ Tall Pines Trail runs through a stand of Norwegian pines, a great route for families with younger skiers who may be uncomfortable on hills. Other great family-oriented routes include the Mason Tract Pathway.

Best night skiing—At Cross-Country Ski Headquarters, ski all trails at night by borrowing LED headlights available at the shop. Some Hartwick Pines ski trails also are lighted on special occasions, and a lighted beginner trail is at the Cross Country Ski Shop.

Best overall ski experience—Because of the variety and closeness to downtown Grayling, Hanson Hills, three miles away, and Forbush Corner, seven miles north off I-75’s Frederic exit get the vote. Forbush Corner is considered one of the top privately owned systems in the Midwest because of its outstanding grooming. Trails are single track set with skating lanes adjacent, with the Midwest’s largest
cross-country only equipment fleet. It often is one of the first natural snow systems open.

Best time of week to ski—State trails are groomed each Friday morning and privately run trails are groomed as needed. But whether you like to stay on groomed tracks, or break trail through the woods, anytime is a great time to try the wealth of cross-country ski trails in the forest and hills of the greater Grayling area.

Ski rental is available at Cross Country Ski Headquarters south of Grayling on County Road 100 (989-821-6661; www.crosscountryski.com, 19 kilometers of trails on premises); at Grayling’s Cross Country Ski Shop, behind the Ramada Inn off
Business I-75, (800-889-7456; www.xcskishop.com, 5 kilometers of trails on premises).

Rentals also are available at Forbush Corner, just east off I-75 exit 264 (989-348-5989; www.forbushcorner.com, 37 kilometers of trails on premises and a ski shop. It’s open weekends only.

Choose from more than 14 motels as well as bed and breakfast accommodations in Grayling offering extremely reasonable rates. Restaurants are also plentiful in the Grayling area, and there is weekend entertainment at the Grayling Ramada Inn. 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!

Hartwick Pines State Park and Logging Museum
2009-2010(winter) Schedule of Events

October
October 17: “Critters in the Moonlight” Halloween program. 4:30-8:30pm. (Special Event)
October 31: Logging Museum closes for the season.
November
November 21-22: Snowshoe Building Workshop. 9am-4pm both days. Fee and registration required. At the Visitor Center. (Class)
December
December 7: Winter Lecture Series: “Who was Edward E. Hartwick?” 2pm. At the Visitor Center. (Special Program)
December 12-13: Snowshoe Building Workshop. 9am-4pm both days. Fee and registration required. At the Visitor Center. (Class)
December 26-30: Holiday Programs-Activities for children and families. 9am-4pm daily at the Visitor Center.
January
January 2: Cross Country Ski by Lantern Light. 6-9pm.
January 9: Winter Trails Day. 10am-4pm. (Special Event)
January 16: Cross Country Ski by Lantern Light. 6-9pm.
January 17: Winter Lecture Series: “75 years of Hartwick Pines State Park”. 2pm. (Special Program)
January 23: Guided Snowshoe Hike. 1pm. Pre-registration required as space is limited.
January 30: Cross Country Ski by Lantern Light. 6-9pm.
January 30-31: Snowshoe Building Workshop. 9am-4pm both days. Fee and registration required. At the Visitor Center. (Class)
February
February 6: Guided Snowshoe Hike. 1pm. Preregistration required as space is limited.
February 13: Cross Country Ski by Lantern Light. 6-9pm
February 14: Winter Lecture Series: Program To Be Announced. 2pm. (Special Program)
February 20: Guided Snowshoe Hike. 1pm. Preregistration required as space is limited.
February 27: Cross Country Ski by Lantern Light. 6-9pm
March
March 7: Winter Lecture Series: Program To Be Announced. 2pm. (Special Program)
March 27: Maple Syrup Day. 10am-4pm. (Special Event)

(Outdoor events in winter will be weather-dependent.) Program schedule subject to change; call the Michigan Forest Visitor Center at (989) 348-2537 or visit www.michigan.gov/loggingmuseum for more information.

Are you interested in treating your family to a truly unique experience during the Halloween Season? If so, then plan to attend the “Haunted Farm” event at Wellington Farm, USA on Oct.23, 24, 29, 30. Wellington Farm, USA is a 60-acre living history museum depicting life as it was lived in a rural, mid-western farming community during the Great Depression. After dark, visitors will be led through the park where dioramas will be set up portraying the “Legend of Sleepy Hollow”.

The “hauntings” will be performed from approximately 8pm-10pm.

The farm is located at 6944 S. Military Road, Grayling, about half-way between Higgins Lake and Camp Grayling. The farm is easily accessed from both I-75 and US 127. Wellington Farm, USA is owned and operated by Wellington Farm Park, Inc. a 502©3 non-profit corporation. Ticket cost is $6 adult, $4 student/senior or family $20

Reservations can be made by calling 888-653-3276 or visiting www.wellingtonfarmpark.org.

Crawford County Avalanche article

GRAYLING UPTOWN DISTRICT ASSOCIATION
PO Box 662
Grayling, MI 49738

NEWS RELEASE
2009 Christmas Walk

Uptown Grayling will be all aglow and filled with the holiday spirit when The Christmas Walk welcomes the Holiday Season on Saturday, November 21, 2009, from 5:00-800 p.m.

To kick off the start of the festivities, Santa will be arriving in town during the World’s Shortest Parade. Santa will be available after the parade to chat with the children and hear their fondest wishes.

Michelson Memorial United Methodist Church is presenting a Living Nativity from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The Crawford County Museum will be open for a taste of history and The Watershed Art Project will be sponsoring a Juried Art Exhibition.

Businesses host entertainment, offer refreshments or set up special Christmas displays and in-store specials for your enjoyment.

A trolley will be available to drive visitors to the Grayling Mini Mall to view the “Festival of Trees”.

Plan now to attend the Christmas Walk in uptown Grayling with all your family and friends and enjoy “Back Home to the Heart of Christmas!”

For further information contact any of the Uptown Grayling stores or the Grayling Visitors Bureau at 800-937-8837.

Hartwick Pines State Park & Logging Museum
4216 Ranger Rd. Grayling, MI 49738
phone: (989) 348-2537. fax: (989) 344-6803. email: burgr@michigan.gov
Contact: Rob Burg

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hartwick Pines to host “Critters in the Moonlight” Halloween Walk

On Saturday, October 17th, Hartwick Pines State Park will once again be hosting the annual “Critters in the Moonlight” Halloween Walk. This event will be held from 4:30 to 8:30pm on Saturday evening. While this program is especially focused for families with young children, all who come out will enjoy the Jack-O-Lantern lit walk through a portion of the Old Growth Forest and meet several of Michigan’s forest animals. These animals portrayed by costumed volunteers will tell you a little about themselves to dispel some common misconceptions about them. These “critters” will include a bat, skunk, bear, wolf, snake, owl, spider, vulture, and others. After the walk, enjoy a cup of cider and a donut at the picnic shelter. Children are encouraged to dress in their Halloween costumes and will receive a treat bag, while supplies last.
The “Critters in the Moonlight” Halloween Walk will be held at the park’s picnic area. There is no admission for this program, however a State Park Motor Vehicle Permit is required for park entry. This event is sponsored by the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources, the Michigan Dept. of History, Arts, and Libraries and the Friends of Hartwick Pines. For more information about this event and other programs at Hartwick Pines State Park and Logging Museum, please call (989) 348-2537 or check the following websites: www.michigan.gov/hartwickpines or www.michigan.gov/loggingmuseum . The Logging Museum is jointly operated by the DNR and the Michigan Dept. of History, Arts and Libraries’ Michigan Historical Center and is a field-site of the Michigan Historical Museum.
The Department of History, Arts and Libraries is dedicated to enriching quality of life for Michigan residents and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan’s heritage and fostering cultural creativity. The department includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

Local internationally acclaimed artist, Kim Diment’s painting of the Kirtland Warbler was last year’s featured painting for the Watershed Art Project’s (WAP) mystery mural. Grayling’s art patrons, with help from WAP artists and partners, contributed to the piece by finishing a 12x12 inch “mystery” tile that was later unveiled (with names of each participant engrave on a plaque) for the Grayling community and visitors to enjoy. This art piece is framed and hung on the Sounds and Signals (Radio Shack) building downtown Grayling.

The Watershed Art Project is preparing for the 2nd annual mystery mural painting to take place downtown Grayling on October 3rd, 2009 from 10-4 (please note changes from previous flyers) in collaboration with the Fall Harvest Fest and Tractor Show. Tables and art “coaches” will be set up in front of Winner’s Circle Art Gallery and tiles will be available to paint. WAP is asking for a donation of $5.00 for participation. The donations will be used to support WAP future events. J. Dap Gift Shoppe offered to feature this 2nd masterpiece and it will be framed and hung on the side of their building. The unveiling will be during the annual Christmas Walk scheduled for November 21, 2009.

Please return downtown the evening of October 3rd and be entertained by “Folk n’ Fingers” featuring J.B. Davies and Dan House for an evening of acoustic finger-style guitar, folk music and just plain fun. This will be held at Winner’s Circle Gallery and Apollo’s Lyre, starting at 7pm. Part of the proceeds will be gifted to the Watershed Art Project.

BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 11TH, 2009 AND CONTINUING THRU OCTOBERFEST – OCT. 3RD AND 4TH

THE MUSEUM WILL BE OPEN ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
FROM 10 AM UNTIL 4 PM

THE MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSED DURING THE WINTER DUE TO HEATING CONSIDERATIONS. THEY WILL BE OPEN FOR THE CHRISTMAS WALK ON NOVEMBER 21ST FROM 4 PM THRU 9 PM. THE MUSEUM IS ALSO AVAILABLE BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT – CALL NANCY STONE AT 344-1763.

The next Museum Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at 7pm at City Hall. Annual elections will be held at that time. All members are urged to attend and any of the public who would like to become members of the Museum. The Museum is always looking for volunteers to help with museum operations.

For more information or any comments please call the Museum at 348-4461 or Rose Mary Nelson at 348-2985

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 2, 2009

Contacts: Lee Osterland 989-275-4622, Robin Pearson 989-732-3541 or
Mary Dettloff
517-335-3014

Au Sable River Canoe Landings Closing for Improvements

The Department of Natural Resources announced today that two popular canoe landings along the south branch and mainstream of the Au Sable River, east of Grayling in Crawford County, will be closed for improvements beginning Tuesday, Sept. 8.

The improvements will impact the riverfront at the popular Castle rest stop located within the Mason Tract and Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground (SFCG). Rainbow Bend SFCG will remain open to camping during this time period. This initiative, funded with a grant from the Recreational Trails Program, will replace the existing docks at these sites and provide improved access.

“Boaters who are planning to paddle this segment of the river this fall should utilize other portage points to begin and end their trip,” said Lee Osterland, DNR Roscommon fire supervisor. “Caution should also be used while paddling past the two construction sites, as the state’s contractor will be working within the river channel to remove the old dock and to install the new docking structures.”

Questions concerning this closure may be directed to Osterland, at 989-275-4622, extension 2750, or DNR Recreation Specialist Robin Pearson, at 989-732-3541, extension 5045. Information regarding other paddling, camping, ORV riding, or hiking opportunities in Crawford County may be found on the DNR’s Web site at
www.michigandnr.com/parksand trails, or by calling either the DNR Roscommon Operations Service Center at 989-275-5151, or the DNR Gaylord Operations Service Center at 989-732-3541, both followed by extension “0” for the operator.

The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, accessible use and enjoyment of the State’s natural resources for current and future generations.

Here is a link to the new county ordinance.The county also has a map that will show what roads are open. The Ordinance addresses only riding on the shoulder of certain county roads. State roads (such as M93 and I75) will not be open, nor will any of the two-tracks under DNR jurisdiction. This ordinance will probably be amended again, so please keep an eye on the above website to catch any changes.

The new Happi-Trails ATV Club evolved from two guys who want to have fun, enjoy group outings and get to know more people; in the process we would like to provide some answers to all those questions that people have who enjoy riding the trails in Northern Michigan. We want to work closely with Law Enforcement, Department of Natural Resources, Crawford Co. and all the townships in the county. We need to establish a communication between all of these agencies.
We need your help in making ATV-ing the BEST PASTTIME in Michigan...if you're interested in having some fun and meeting new people, come join us.
Our home base is going to be at the Happi-Days Camp Ground located in Frederic Twp. Happi-Trails ATV Club website

Contact: Phil Weiler
Weyerhaeuser Au Sable Canoe Marathon
Phone 989.348.4425
www.ausablecanoemarathon.org
aricm@i2k.com
P.O. Box 911
Grayling, MI 49738

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

Triebold, LaJoie Repeat as ARCM Champions
OSCODA - 2008 Weyerhaeuser AuSable River Canoe Marathon winners Andrew Triebold, of Spring Arbor, Michigan and paddling partner Steve LaJoie, of Mirabel, Quebec have repeated their roles as marathon champions in the 62nd running of the historic Grayling to Oscoda event July 25-26. With Triebold paddling in the bow position and teammate LaJoie toiling in the stern, the pair of 33 year-old men battled through early, sometimes heavy rain showers and rode the downstream runoff to stake their repeat claim to victory in 14 hours, 17 minutes and 42 seconds.
Triebold and LaJoie led all 15 timed stages to record a flag-to-flag win and the $5000 first prize in the 120-mile long event.
“The start was electric,” said race spokesman Phil Weiler of the Lemans-style start that has become a hallmark of the event. “ After the rain it was good paddling for the rest of the night. The morning fog hampered some, but it was a great race with a great finish. I would like to thank all the competitors, fans and sponsors for making the race a tremendous success.”
The repeat victors were followed across the finish line by the team of Steve Corlew of Brighton, Michigan and Matt Streib of Bristol, Indiana in 14:29.18. Streib was the runner-up in the 2008 ARCM with then partner Steve Kolonich. Finishing third was the team of Mo Harwood of Grayling, Mich. and Matt Ashton, also of Grayling, in
14:35.12. Finishing in fourth place was the New York state based team of Marc Gillespie and Matt Rudnitsky in 14:37.59, slightly ahead of Josh Taylor from Grayling and Mitch McMillan (Clare, Mich.) in fifth with a 14:39.41 time. Nick Walton (Haslett, Mich.) and Josh Sheldon (Potterville, Mich.) finished sixth in 14:40.59.
Master’s division winners Tony Short, 45 of Kawkawlin, Michigan and Brad Gross 40, from Pinconning, Michigan finished seventh overall with a 14:46.52 to capture class honors. Short has competed in 21 previous marathons and Gross was completing his sixth marathon effort.
Mixed division mainstays Bruce Barton 52, of Homer, Michigan and Connie Cannon 48, of East Lansing secured the class win in 15:07.39 for 13th place overall. Senior division winners Michael Garon 51, of Washington Township, Michigan and partner Doug Gillin 50, of Adrian, Michigan completed the course in 15:55.12 for 35th place overall, three places ahead of Women’s division champions Emily Peterson, of Minneapolis, Minnesota and Carrie Montgomery of Mikado, Michigan in 16:03.05.
Fan favorite Al Widing Sr.84, of Mio, Michigan was competing in his 38th marathon with bowman Ray Quick 54, of Millington, Michigan in his 15th run down the river. The pair finished in 45th place overall with a 16:22.21.
For a complete list of race results, go to www.ausablecanoemarathon.org.

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 way.

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 and dinner.

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.

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!

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 $25 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. Penrod’s offers 12 cabins, including some with two bedrooms and fireplace. 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!

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 18-23, 2009. Participants in this event can travel from Coldwater to Cheboygan, or join for only portions of the tour.