Michigan - Thumbs Up!

• COOKING IS HOT: Foodies and amateur chefs mingle with the pros at parties, tastings and cooking demos during the annual Epicurean Classic near the Lake Michigan Shore in St. Joseph, August 27-29.
• A DOZEN ISLAND ESCAPES: Get away to the peace and quiet of a Great Lakes island retreat, from a remote National Park to the only urban island park in the U.S., Michigan has plenty of options. 

Last year Michigan issued 1,313,868 fishing licenses. Fishing with the family is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. The State of Michigan offers its residents and visitors two Free Fishing Weekends per year, and the summer weekend is June 12 & 13. All fishing licenses will be waived, but fishing regulations still apply. Anglers can fish for all species in the Great Lakes, inland lakes and rivers. We can share with you a short list of the best fishing spots – however, we do not provide bait.

Michigan is America's summer golf capital with more than 700 public courses and resorts to tee up for a great game in two peninsulas.  What's even better this summer is a score of deals for great play with super values. For example, in honor of The Bear's 25th Anniversary, enjoy 25% discount on greens fees on the 25th day of the month at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. We can share many other deals available for duffers of all ages, just ask.

Traverse City is the 2010 host for the Great Lakes Lighthouse Preservation Conference, to be held June 14-17 at the Great Lakes MaritimeAcademy. Considering Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in America, it seems like the perfect location for a few hundred lighthouse fans to gather. Attendees will enjoy tours, panel discussions, workshops and lectures focused on restoring and preserving historic lighthouses. Want to find out more?  Contact us and we’ll shine a light on the upcoming event.