Northern Michigan: The Northern Michigan community has done a lot to support the local non-profit TART Trails, and TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) wants to give back with a few thanks and kind words of recognition. Here are some Northern Michigan people and organizations that TART would like to thank, to name a few.
Fourteen year old Burr Awrey and his fellow scouts for installing birdhouses and four benches along the Leelanau Trail as part of an Eagle Scout project. The group spent time digging holes in the rain to get the benches in place. Why apply his time and talent to the trail? Says, Burr, "I liked the idea of this project because it gives the community the chance to enjoy the beauty of Leelanau County and will benefit generations for years to come.” Thanks, Burr.
TART’s new Mile Marker Sponsors! The Ray Family and Thirlby Clinic are each sponsoring a marker along the Leelanau Trail, and Signs Now will have one along the Boardman Lake Trail. The signs are in production and will be up soon for you to see on your fall color tour.
The Cherry Capital Cycling Club for planning and hosting the Leelanau Harvest Tour on Sunday, September 16th. Nearly 1,000 riders came out for the 29th annual ride. As usual, the event was nothing short of spectacular. Fabulous food, great scenery, a kickin' trail and amazing volunteers who put in many hours for planning, registration, food stops, course safety and everything else that goes into this incredible tour. Proceeds from the tour help TART move forward with our vision for happy, active people enjoying a world class trail system. Thanks to all the riders and volunteers that make this one of the best tours around.
Pearl's and Short’s Brewing Company for bringing together fabulous music, food and brews at the 2nd annual Bluegrass, Bourbon, Blues and Beer Festival. The rainy day did not keep the crowd away, as the tent was packed on both Friday and Saturday. Thank you to the many volunteers that helped with parking and pouring beer (a tough job, but someone's got to do it!). A portion of proceeds from the event benefit expansion of the TART Trails system from Acme to Elk Rapids. We’re already looking forward to next year!
Jim 'Woody' Woodburne of North American Vasa for coordinating a Vasa Pathway Workbee to repair erosion on the Jack Pine Loop on Saturday, September 22. Seventeen volunteers worked in the rain to moved 27 yards of special limestone mix. Gordon Waggoner provided the machinery to get the task done. The effort should result in improved conditions for the upcoming cross country ski season.
For more information on TART Trails visit traversetrails.org.