Winter Reprieve

Residents of Michigan and the Great Lakes Basin become accustomed to constant weather related change; non more welcomed than last Friday as five days of spring-like conditions stormed the region. Sun, blue-skies and glorious afternoon temperatures provided a welcomed break from this very cold winter!

During this time I've been in Grayling, Gaylord, Wolverine, on the Pere Marquette, Burt Lake, Indian River, Pellston, Brutus, Oscoda and Lovells. My writing responsibilities may have suffered but my spirit has soared. This winter reprieve has come at just the right time.

While it's known throughout the world by name, the University of Michigan has a tremendous facility in the heart of my coverage area along the north shore of Burt Lake. The facility actually is based on Douglas Lake to the north of Burt Lake though facilities are located on both. A land bridge seperates these bodies of water and Douglas provides its flow to Burt via the Maple River and several small creeks. If you're willing to delve somewhat deeper into the local history you'll find the namesake for the entire watershed in a local band of Native Americans called the Cheboiganing Tribe.