The Pine Mountain ski slide was at one time was the highest artificial ski jump in the world and is still known throughout the world as one of the best jumping hills. At the first Pine Mountain Tournament, Bob Roecker, riding for the Duluth Ski Club, shattered the American jumping record with a leap of 257 feet.

For questions regarding tickets, please contact the Kiwanis Ski Club (906) 779-1110 or (800) 236-2447.  This video from Pine Mountain 2008 is a little bright, but it gives you a good sense of this exciting event. Here's another video with lots more jumps from the Continental Cup, but we have to give you this great newsreel from the 1950s voiced by Mel Allen. It was shot in Iron Mountain, and features several local jumpers including then 9-year-old Willie Erickson, a two-time Olympian and FIS World Championship competitor. Also don't miss the jumping videos from the Kiwanis club!

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Iron Works #2 - Cranbrook by MikeRyu

Our Michigan February Event Calendar shows that the more the weather tries to keep us holed up, the more ways we find to get out and have fun!! Of course, there's still many, many more and we invite you to fill us in on other February events in the comments.

February Fast Facts - Wikipedia

• Having only 28 days in common years, it is the only month of the year that can pass without a single full moon. 2012 is a Leap Year!
• It has 29 days in leap years, when the year number is divisible by four (except for years that are divisible by 100 and not by 400 in the Gregorian calendar)
• It is the only month of the calendar that once every six years and twice every 11 years, will have only four full 7-day weeks.
• Its birth flower is the Viola (plant) and the Primrose.
• Its birthstone is the amethyst.

February Quotes

"Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home." - Edith Sitwell

"Surely as cometh the Winter, I know
There are Spring violets under the snow." - R. H. Newell

"February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March." - Dr. J. R. Stockton

"Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour." - John Boswell

"February makes a bridge and March breaks it." - George Hebert

Notable February Dates from Michigan History Magazine

• February 13, 1855 The Michigan legislature protects escaped slaves.
• February 24, 1863 Michigan supports the Emancipation Proclamation.
• February 17, 1864 The First Michigan Colored Infantry is mustered into federal service.
• February 21, 1905 The National Ski Association is organized in Ishpeming.
• February 20, 1909 The Hudson Motor Car Company is organized.
• February 2, 1936 Ty Cobb becomes one of the first players selected to enter the newly formed Baseball Hall of Fame.
• February 8, 1985 The Stroh Brewery announces it is closing its Detroit plant.

Michigan Events for February

Also see the Pure Michigan Blog and the UP Travel Calendar for more events!

Ice Climbing - Tannery Falls
by James Marvin Phelps

February 2 - 5
Michigan Ice Fest, Munising
Ice Fest is an annual tradition that features climbing for sure, but it gives attendees a chance to learn and develop skills, hear from some of the masters if the art and to connect with friends and fellow climbers from around the Midwest! Games, winter gear demos, bonfire, sledding hill, raffles, drinks and food are all part of this event. (check out some of the incredible climbs!)

February 2-5
North American Snow Festival, Cadillac
Featuring snowmobiling, downhill skiing, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, snow softball, polar dip, ice fishing, antique sleds, fun run, food, beverages and much more, the annual Snow Festival is a four-day celebration of winter in northern Michigan.

February 4 - 5
Taste the Passion, Leelanau Peninsula
Get a head start on Valentines Day and join the wineries of the Leelanau Wine Trail for an annual weekend celebrating wine, chocolate and love. The event features food & wine pairings at each winery along with special, winter-themed events.

The Swimmers of 2009 Perchville
by sunrisepenny

February 3 - 5
Perchville USA, East Tawas & Tawas City
The 62nd Annual Perchville USA features fishing contests, polar bear dip, a parade and more perch than you can shake a fishing pole at!

February 4
International 500 Snowmobile Race, Sault Ste. Marie
First run in 1969, the annual International 500 Snowmobile Race offers all the thrills of NASCAR on a one-mile ice oval, with drivers reaching speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour. Includes all kinds of snowmobile exhibits and vendors and was proclaimed by Gov. Snyder as Michigan's premier winter sporting event!

February 9 - 12
Michigan Tech University Winter Carnival, Houghton
Events include the famous snow statues, sporting events including skating, curling, broomball, ice bowling, human sled dog racing, the queen contest, a torch light parade, fireworks, the Sno-Ball and much more.

February 10 -12
Midwest Telefest, Porcupine Mountain, Ontonagon
Telefest is the largest gathering of free heelers in the Midwest! Now in its 22nd season, Telefest has evolved into a tradition and is a hallmark celebration of the telemark turn. During Telefest there will be opportunities to try out the latest tele gear, take an instructional course or clinic, compete in races, cut turns in the backcountry, watch a movie, and dance with friends at the party!

Ski Jumping in Michigan by gkretovic

February 11 - 12
Pine Mountain Continental Cup Ski Jumping Tournament, Iron Mountain
For the 73rd year ski jumpers from around the globe will gather in Iron Mountain to try and claim king of the mountain at the 120 meter Pine Mountain Ski Jump. Known around the world as one of the more challenging ski jumping venues, Pine Mountain over time has attracted some of the world’s best. Countries expected to compete in the 2012 competition include Austria, Czech Republic, Norway, Sweden, Poland, Slovenia, Canada, Kazakhstan, Finland, Germany, Turkey and of course the United States.

February 11 - 19
Detroit Boat Show - Detroit
The Detroit Boat Show has been staged every year for 51 years, and is known as the premier boating event in the State of Michigan. The Detroit Boat Show is known as one of the top boat shows in the country in regards to size, sales and attendance.

Dog sled races, UP200, 2007 by e.rabior

February 16 - 20
UP 200, Midnight Run Sled-Dog Championships and The Jack Pine 30 - Marquette
Three UP sled dog races provide a variety of challenges for mushers. The UP 200 is actually 240 miles in length and is a qualifying race for the Iditarod. Over 15,000 visitors come to Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.) to see the U.P. 200! It is a favorite winter event for local residents and out of town guests. The U.P. 200 has a dedicated group of over 500 volunteers from the U.P. and the mid-west region that come together to stage this great event each year.

February 17 - 19
Cherry Capital Winter WOW Fest - Traverse City
Winter WOW Fest is a three-day wintertime celebration chock-full of fun for all ages in the Cherry Capital of the World, President's Day Weekend featuring food, wine, music, ice & snow sculptures, a snowboard rail jam and much more.

February 16 - 19
Frost Bite Winter Festival - Harrison
The 2012 theme is "Vegas!" featuring a Casino Party, Fake Vegas-style "Speed Weddings", night out with the Vegas Showgirls and golf and ice fishing tournaments. The golf tournament takes place on 5 groomed nine-hole courses, where novice and veteran golfers hit brightly colored tennis balls over the snow.

February 17 - 19
U.P. Pond Hockey Championship - St. Ignace
The Labatt Blue UP Pond Hockey Championship features over 150 teams competing for prizes is played on the wild ice of Moran Bay in St. Ignace, part of Lake Huron. The tournament is the only one in Michigan where the 'pond' is actually one of the Great Lakes! Includes and appearance of the Detroit Red Wings Alumni team for an exhibition game on Friday.

Winter Microbrew Fest by farlane

February 18
Traverse City Winter Microbrew & Music Festival, Traverse City
The 3rd annual TC Winter Microbrew fest brings over 40 breweries, wineries, cideries, and meaderies to the Grand Traverse Commons along with local food, beer pairings, heated tents, and a wide range of musical entertainment including fire dancers and silent disco to celebrate winter & brewing and benefit Bay Area Recycling for Charities.

February 18
Romancing the Riesling, Traverse City
Northern Michigan is known for producing top notch Riesling grapes, and this annual event celebrates by sharing some of the best Rieslings the Old Mission Peninsula has to offer. Participating wineries will showcase a Riesling, served in your very own souvenir wine glass and perfectly paired with a food offering. As an extra bonus, guests will enjoy at least 10% off all Riesling wine purchases at the participating wineries throughout the event.

Upper Tahquamenon Falls-Winter
by James Marvin Phelps

February 18
Tahquamenon Snowshoe Race, Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Starting at Upper Tahquamenon Falls, this annual event offers 5K, 10K, 20K and 800 meter Kids Snowshoe races. Many age groups with awards to the top three in each age group for each race.

February 20 - 25
Grand Rapids Beer Week, Grand Rapids
With seven established breweries within the city limits, Grand Rapids is quickly becoming a destination for craft beer culture. GR Beer Week is a celebration of that and will feature beer dinners, rare beer tastings, tap takeovers and other unique events.

February 24
The Great Wine & Food Symposium, Grand Rapids
Escape the snow with an evening of indulgence at The Great Wine & Food Symposium, west Michigan's premier wine tasting event. You'll enjoy gourmet food selections, and your single ticket price includes unlimited sampling of over 300 wines and beers from around the world as classical music drifts through the halls. Order your favorite wine and beer with up to a 40% discount.

February 25
The Outhouse 500 - Coopersville
Join in with the hilarious and wacky fun of the 6th Annual Outhouse 500 on Main Street in Historic Downtown Coopersville! Hosted by the Main Street Merchants Association. Teams parade, then race their uniquely decorated outhouses down Main Street!

February 25
Winter Beer Festival - Grand Rapids
NOTE - this event is (already) sold out!! The Annual Winter Beer Festival takes place at the Fifth Third Ballpark in Comstock Park, just north of Grand Rapids. The Winter Festival is a unique opportunity to sample some of the best beers in the world, all brewed in Michigan. The event includes more than 35 Michigan microbreweries and brewpubs with more than 200 different beers available to sample.

Trenary Outhouse Suessical by CreateWithKim

February 25
Trenary Outhouse Classic - The Outhouse Races - Trenary
The Outhouse Classic is an annual race in Trenary where outhouses are built and raced down the main street. There are categories: speed, presentation, best use of theme, most humorous, best workmanship, and most miles traveled. Families come to the event to watch and to compete, there are two different age brackets making competitions fair. A few years ago nuns came to compete and built the Vati-Can. Make sure to head on up to Trenary for the annual Outhouse Classic. Read Absolute Michigan's Sports that ARE Silly: Outhouse Racing or watch Outhouse Classic Outhouse Race in Trenary, Michigan.

February 29
Leap Year!, all over Michigan
February 29th only comes once every 4 years, so do something special to mark it!

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All January we have been giving away ski tickets to Michigan resorts in our January Ski Month Giveaway. Our last giveaway is to one of the pioneering ski resorts in Michigan.

boyne highlands lodge by northernlightphotograph

Boyne Mountain started in 1947 when Detroit native Everett Kircher moved to northern Michigan to build a ski resort. For just $1, he bought what is known today as Boyne Mountain. Kircher had many firsts including the world's first triple chair and first four-person chair and America's first 6-seat high-speed chairlift. Kircher also pioneered the design of much of the snow grooming equipment and techniques in use today and invented the Boyne Snowmaker, the first efficient marginal temperature snowmaking machine.

Boyne has grown into a nationwide empire that includes some of the nation's premier resorts like Big Sky, and also two four-season ski resorts in Michigan: Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne Highlands. A cool feature of tickets at the two resorts is that you can use the same ticket at either resort - ski in the morning at one and finish your day at the other, giving you 115 downhill runs & terrain parks between the two resorts!

Boarder at Boyne courtesy Boyne Mountain

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Boyne has expanded the opportunities for winter fun with ice skating, tubing, snowshoeing, dog sled and horse drawn wagon rides, zipline adventures and the Avalanche Bay water park. They also have a wide range of dining and lodging options at each resort. If you want to take a look at what they have to offer, their webcams and videos are a great place to start.

All you need to do to be eligible to win is to be on our email list (below the video). This video gives you a first-person look at skiing at Boyne, but we have to go with this one from the incomparable Warren Miller!

Absolute Michigan is committed to helping our readers get more out of Michigan with our giveaways of products and services from all kinds of Michigan businesses. It's free, fun and all you have to do to be eligible is to be on our email list!

If your business is interested in participating, you can get all the information right here.

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View from Bay Mountain by Patrick Kuras

Our January Ski Month giveaways continue with a chance to win a pair of lift tickets to The Homestead in Glen Arbor - to be eligible, just add your email to our list using the form above!

As you can see from the photo, Bay Mountain at The Homestead overlooks Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Bay, providing one of the most amazing views in the Midwest. While the terrain is by no means extreme, they have a nice terrain park and some fun runs. Their strength is as a destination for families, and their great ski program includes lessons and Camp Tam-A-Rack, offering child care for resort guests and a chance for parents to get out and enjoy the hill.

In addition to downhill, they have some great cross country trails at the resort and are moments away from some of the most amazing trails in the world at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. They also have a number of restaurants and a wide variety of condos and lodging options.

Absolute Michigan isn't the only place you can win stuff - The Homestead is offering an $84,000 Winter Sweepstakes this winter with regular chances to win all kinds of prizes. Twenty-five skiers or boarders will win prizes each week for the first 10 weeks, two will win 2013 season passes in the last two weeks and they'll even give away ski weekends!

Now here's a video that gives you a look at the resort.

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Ski Month keeps rolling on Absolute Michigan with our latest giveaway, a pair of lift tickets to Shanty Creek near Bellaire in Northern Michigan.

Shanty Creek boasts a 450' vertical drop and has 53 runs with 4 terrain parks and a 300' half pipe on its two mountains. With nearly 200" of snow every year and a wealth of additional resort amenities including a tubing park, 30km of cross-country trails, indoor & outdoor pools, a wellness spa and fitness center and multiple dining options, this full-featured resort is a top destination for Michigan skiers.

They also offer super-affordable $15 lift ticket on Summit Mountain (a section of the resort that includes a terrain park) along with $20 ski rentals if you need them and packages and Monday - Friday lift ticket specials that can help you stretch your skiing dollar:

• 4 For $44 Mondays - four lift tickets for $44; 9am-4:30pm on Schuss Mountain (Not valid 1/16 or 2/20)
• 2 For 1 Two-sdays - Two for the price of one lift tickets, rentals and group lessons
• KHQ Wednesdays - $20 day lift tickets (through March 14), $10 night lift tickets (through March 14), $15 Rentals (5-9pm) and $7/Hour Tubing from 5-9pm (through March 14).
• Thankful Thursdays - $15 day tickets, $10 night tickets, $20 day rentals and $15 night rentals for seniors (62+), military, police and firefighters.
• 9&10 News Fridays - Every Friday, ski Summit Mountain from 5-9pm for $9 and Schuss Mountain from 5-10pm for $10; rentals are $15 beginning at 5pm. Available every Friday night (excluding 2/17/12).

You won't need ski deals if you're this week's winner - just make sure you're signed up for our email list in the blue box at the top of the page!

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January is Ski Month on Absolute Michigan, and all month long we are celebrating skiing in Michigan with original articles and features on downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding along with photos and videos that take you up close and personal with the Michigan ski experience. We'll also have features on Michigan ski pioneers and the rich history of skiing in the Great Lakes State, and from our friends at Seeking Michigan and the Archives of Michigan we'll have a feature on the Suicide Hill ski jump in Ishpeming.

At the center of it all is a giveaway of 4 pairs of lift tickets to 4 great Michigan ski resorts:

• Crystal Mountain (click for giveaway details)
• Shanty Creek (giveaway coming next week!)
• The Homestead (giveaway posted Jan 17)
• Boyne Mountain (giveaway Jan 24)

All you need to do to enter is be on our email list - sign up at the bottom of the article! We're not alone in celebrating skiing this month. Governor Rick Snyder has proclaimed January as Discover Michigan Snow Sports Month, citing the fact that we are home to more downhill ski areas than any other state and encouraging Michigan residents and visitors to use this month to take advantage of it.

Black Diamonds Will Have
to Wait... by ( Jennifer )

The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association has jumped on board, offering a program called Discover Michigan Skiing that will give you a beginner lesson, ski or snowboard rental equipment and a beginner-area ski lift pass or cross-country trail pass at 23 Michigan ski facilities! It's available through January 31 and costs just $20 for cross-country skiing; $30 downhill skiing and $40 snowboarding. The program is open to everyone 7 years and older and you can get all the details at their website goskimichigan.com. While you're there, don't miss Cold Is Cool - a promotion that gives every Michigan 4th Grader FREE skiing at participating Michigan resorts.

All in all, it's a great month to be skiing in Michigan. We'll take you out to the slopes right now with the masters of ski videos, the good people at Warren Miller Entertainment and their feature on Boyne Mountain, one of the early and present leaders of the Michigan ski industry.

Absolute Michigan is committed to helping our readers get more out of Michigan. To that end, we are adding an exciting new program featuring regular giveaways of products and services from all kinds of Michigan businesses. It's free, fun and all you have to do to be eligible is to be on our email list - sign up using the form below. We guarantee that we will not share your email address with anyone!

If your business is interested in participating, you can get all the information right here.

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There's an Upside and a Downside by farlane

Northern Michigan kicked off 2012 with a big snowstorm and in January, Absolute Michigan will celebrate all that beautiful snow by giving away 4 pairs of tickets to 4 great Michigan ski resorts. We'll also be heading out to the slopes to bring you reports & photos so stay tuned.

Our first giveaway (winner selected Jan 12, 2012) is from Crystal Mountain, a four-season ski, golf and spa resort located southwest of Traverse City in Thompsonville. Crystal has received a host of awards including Best Resort in the Midwest from Ski Magazine. With a nearly 400' vertical, 45 slopes including a halfpipe and terrain park and 9 modern lifts across 85 acres of terrain, Crystal draws a quarter of a million skiers annually. While snow is not usually a problem, they take no chances with over 100 snowguns capable of pumping 1,000 tons of snow per hour.

To their wide range of hills for all abilities and great snow, Crystal Mountain adds great hospitality, with over 250 hotel rooms, suites, condominiums, townhomes and resort residences to choose from along with indoor pool and hot tub, a 20 person outdoor hot tub and their 18,500 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Crystal Spa. It's the only LEED certified spa in the Midwest and makes a great place to unwind if you skied too hard! There are also a number of dining options including a personal favorite, the Thistle Pub & Grille, that features Michigan craft brew, a ton of local infused menu items and some truly awesome burgers that will keep you tearing up the slopes!

All YOU need to do to have a shot at 2 tickets - good any day - to Crystal Mountain is to be on our email list. Sign up in the blue box at the top of the page. Even if you don't win the giveaway, you can still get great deals by purchasing your ticket online.

You can watch all kinds of videos on the Crystal Mountain YouTube channel. We'll take you out with one of our favorites, a video from a 1 1/2 foot powder dump a few years ago - think SNOW!

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Frankfort, Michigan Lighthouse and Beach by forestlady

Here's a few highlights of the many events being held around Michigan for the month of January (be sure to click Read More to see them!). A lot of them are out in the snow for snowmobiles, skates, skis and sled dogs, but there's also a chance to heat up with the Ann Arbor Folk Fest, Ferndale Blues and the Detroit Auto Show. The weatherman says there's a 100% chance we didn't get them all so please add links and information for those we missed along with reviews of ones we list in the comments below!

Fast Facts - Wikipedia

• January is named after Janus (Ianuarius), the god of the doorway; the name has its beginnings in Roman mythology, coming from the Latin word for door (ianua) - January is the door to the year.
• January's birthstone is the garnet which represents constancy.
• Its birth flower is the Dianthus caryophyllus or Galanthus.

Quotes

"New Year's Day is everyman's birthday." - Charles Lamb

"January brings the snow, makes our feet and fingers glow." - Sara Coleridge

"Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home." - Edith Sitwell

Things to Do, Places to Go

Also see the Pure Michigan Blog and the UP Travel Calendar for more events!

All Month
Ice Skate Campus Martius Park - Detroit
Skating among the skyscrapers at Campus Martius Park. At 64 feet by 120 feet, it's a bit larger than the Rink at Rockefeller Center and showcases surround-sound music and color-changing lighting. Skaters and visitors can enjoy a warming pavilion for renting and changing skates, as well as outdoor seating. The rink is open daily until March.

January 7
Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race - Newberry
An annual race on pristine trails over beautiful terrain.  Experience the excitement of Sled Dog Racing from professional teams to amateur enthusiasts competing in long distance & sprint events.

January 7 & January 21
Guided Snowshoe Hike at Hartwick Pines, Grayling
Enjoy guided snowshoe hikes through the Lower Peninsula’s largest stand of old-growth white pines. Guided by a park interpreter or historian, participants will learn about the forest in the winter and discover the importance of winter to Michigan’s logging industry in the 1800s, all while getting great exercise.

January 12 - 15
Ultimate Fishing Show, Novi
Michigan's largest fishing show. This show is all about fishing tackle, fishing trips, fishing boats and features: Lake Ultimate, Trout Pond, Seminar Stages, Fish Fry and more. Detroit is the largest freshwater fishing market in the U.S.!

January 14 - January 22
The North American International Auto Show - Detroit
Experience the next generation of transportation at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. See more than 500 vehicles on display, representing the most innovative designs in the world and experience North America's largest and most prestigious automotive showcase.

January 13
Winter Warm-Up Weekend - Traverse City
The Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula (WOMP) have teamed up with peninsula area businesses for the 2011 Winter Warm Up. Guests can visit the Old Mission wineries between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to purchase a souvenir mug for $10. This mug is your ticket into each participating winery and business on Old Mission Peninsula, allowing you to enjoy warm comfort food and drinks. Some peninsula area restaurants are offering special promotions when you present your mug. Stay at one of the Peninsula's Bed & Breakfast. For information on the B&Bs check out www.oldmission.com.

January 13 - 14 and January 21
Winternational Hillclimb - South Range
The Winternationals Hillclimb at Whealkate Bluff in South Range features snowmobile pro-stock and pro-mod king of the hill, semi-pro/sport, concessions, and awards. On the 21st there are Vintage, Semi-Pro Division, Pro Stock and Pro Mod Division and King of the Hill Runs as well.

January 13 – 15
Hunter Ice Festival, Niles
World Class Master Carvers will transform more than 25 tons of Ice into art in a showcase of 50+ ice sculptures situated all over the downtown area and created on site by well-known ice carvers from near and far. Also enjoy a Murder Mystery Dinner, Frigid 5k Run, History of Ice Carving/Harvesting Exhibit, Warming Center, kids’ crafts, Chillin’ Ice Bar at Riverfront Café, Chili Crawl, Hunter Ice Cream and more!

January 19 - 21
Michigan Winter Dog Classic, Novi
Michigan's largest dog show features seminars, demonstrations and competition with over 7,000 dogs and 150+ breeds throughout the 4-day show, including several breeds getting ready for the country’s premier Westminster Kennel Club Dog show in February, 2012. Dogs will be judged on standards set by the American Kennel Club.

January 20 - 22
Caro 150 Winter Fest & Snowmobile Races, Caro
In addition to pro and amateur snowmobile races, enjoy a special downtown open house, live entertainment, restaurant specials, contests, fireworks and more in a classic Michigan winter festival.

January 20 - 22
Plymouth Ice Festival, Plymouth
Michigan’s largest ice sculpture display is the backdrop for a winter celebration with outdoor sports demonstrations, ice carving displays, food, fun activities for all ages, live music and more! It is the largest free winter festival in Michigan and is celebrating 30 years in 2012.

January 21 - 22
Heikki Lunta Festival, Teal Lake, Negaunee
The annual Heikki Lunta (Hey-Key Loon-ta) Winterfest is a festival of winter fun held on and around Negaunee's Teal Lake celebrating Heikki Lunta, the legendary (and pretty much made up) Finnish show god who is said to have the ability to perform a dance causing snowfall.

January 22 - 24 and 29 - 31
Tip Up Town USA - Houghton Lake
It's hard to put into words how Tip Up Town USA has come to be the very description of winter fun and enjoyment for the whole family at Houghton Lake. Thousands of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and neighboring residents return each year to see this largest Winter Festival in Michigan, held annually the last two weekends in January. Whatever the weather, TUT will be fun, fun, fun all the way. There will be all the usual popular attractions - the carnival, parade, Polar Bear Dip, Family Fun Tent, Beverage Tent, crazy games and more! Plus, the Ice Fishing contests will be bigger and better than ever and we're adding Broomball this year!

January 25 - 30
Zehnder's Snowfest - Frankenmuth
Zehnder's Snowfest has been host to one of the top snow sculpting events in North America for the past 20 years. Visitors have enjoyed larger-than-life snow sculptures and beautifully detailed ice carvings each year. Once again they will dazzle and excite you with snow and ice sculptures created by professional ice and snow carvers from around the world. Zehnder's Snowfest is also host to the National Collegiate Ice Carving Championship and the High School Snow Sculpting Competition. In addition, Zehnder's Snowfest will have entertainment for the entire family in the warming tent, a fireworks display, petting zoo and children's activities.

January 26 - 29
Michigan International Auto Show, Grand Rapids
West Michigan’s largest consumer show returns to DeVos Place, with manufacturers from around the world and some 300 new sedans, vans, SUVs, trucks, hybrids and sports cars on display. Attendees will once again have the opportunity to get an up close look at a handful of exclusive luxury automobiles in the twelve vehicle Million Dollar Motorway. An impressive s, each sporting an individual price tag of more than $100,000 – with a cumulative value of more than $2.5 million.

January 27 - 28
Ann Arbor Folk Festival - Ann Arbor
In keeping with the Festival's longstanding reputation, each night will feature a blend of renowned and up-and-coming performers, providing audiences with the opportunity to hear popular artists working at the top of their field while discovering terrific new talent. All funds raised through the Festival benefit The Ark, Ann Arbor's non-profit home for folk, roots, and ethnic music.

January 27 - February 4
Ferndale Blues Festival - Ferndale
Get your Blues on! The Ferndale Metro Blues Festival has been a hugely popular and wildly successful event. In fact, it was an official sanctioned event of Super Bowl XL in 2006. The Ferndale Metro Blues Festival averages more than 60 concerts held over nine days at two dozen locations in the region.

January 27 - 29
International 500 Puck-A-Palooza Hockey Tournament, Sault Ste Marie
The Original Hockey Town USA invitesyou to enjoy the first Puck-A-Palooza 4 on 4 track hockey tournament. Hockey played on the world’s fastest, longest and oldest endurance racing straight-away surface.

January 28
Subaru Noquemanon Ski Marathon and mBank Half Noque - Marquette
The MGH Noquemanon Ski Marathon and mBank Half Noque, both in their eleventh year, continue to attract cross country skiers from around the nation and around the world. Thousands of skiers have taken the 51K or 25K trek from Ishpeming, the birthplace of organized skiing and home to the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame to Marquette's Superior Dome, the world's largest wooden domed stadium along the shores of Lake Superior.

January 28
Heikinpaiva - Hancock
Heikinpäivä is set for January 29, 2011, with events throughout the week leading up to the primary festival day, as well as the days immediately following. Organizers keep a watchful eye on the celebration's uniquely ethnic flavor and it features Finnish crafts, music, food, films and games. Although a Hancock City event, the Heikinpaiva spirit has spilled into neighboring communities from Calumet to South Range.

January 28
Winter Beer Fest, Royal Oak
Winter Beer Fest, presented by Westborn Market, returns to the Royal Oak Music Theatre for its third year. Beer lovers will be able to sample over 80 craft beers from around the globe - including at least fifteen brand-new beers making their Michigan debut - while enjoying beer-inspired cuisine and live music by Detroit folk favorites Petal Shop. The event runs from 8 pm – Midnight, and ages 21+ are welcome to attend. Tickets are just $35 in advance ($40 at the door) and include 25 beer samplings. Proceeds will benefit Michigan-based nonprofit Camp Casey, a horseback-riding program for children with cancer.

January 28 - 29
Orchid Show at Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids
Enjoy hundreds of exquisite orchids featured in lush displays in the Grand Room. Members from the Grand Valley Orchid Society will answer your questions and point out some of the most unique orchids. Shop early for the best selection and find the perfect orchid for your home. The “orchid pyramid” offers photo opportunities. Kids will have fun on an “orchid hunt” and can express their creativity at the art station

January 28 - 29
Chilly Fest 2012 , Port Huron
What goes better with winter than ICE and CHILI?! In the City of Port Huron you'll find ice carvings, a chili cook-off, snowmobile drag races, Silver Sticks Hockey Tournament, horse & carriage rides, live animals, Knowlton Ice Museum exhibits, kids activities and a special appearance from form Red Wing, Chris Chelios!

January 28 – 29
Winter White-Out, St. Clair
St. Clair is closing the streets for winter fun featuring winter games, live music, entertainment and plenty of celebration as the community of St. Clair competes against four other Michigan cities to make the most snowmen in two hours. Competing cities are Saline, Sault Ste. Marie and Zeeland.

...and don't miss in the first week of February

• I-500 Snowmobile Race (Sault Ste Marie)
• Leelanau Taste the Passion Wine Tour (Traverse City)
• North American Snow Festival (Cadillac)

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A Man and His Mountain from Justin Vander Velde on Vimeo.

Mt Mancelona Postcard, Cardcow.com

Last winter Jason Dodge of miskireport.com and his crew spent time at Mount Mancelona and, with intern Justin Vander Velde and the  assistance of the documentary class at Grand Valley State, produced this very cool video about long-shuttered Mt. Mancelona.  Jason writes:

This project is the pinnacle of things that I have been involved with up until this point. A Man and His Mountain not only tells the story of Mt. Mancelona, but it uncovers the true passion that owner Joe has been hanging onto for the past 22 years.

After having the privilege of meeting Joe, listening to the stories, and working alongside the crew to capture the history, I ask myself why would I not want to come to Mt. Mancelona? Why would I not want my family to experience this place? After all, isn’t this true ski culture? Perhaps I’m a touch traditional and don’t get that knocked out about the fancy high-speed lifts, gondolas and magic carpets. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy riding in a Cadillac as much as the next guy, but there is a lot to appreciate about rusty t-bars, the smell of raw fuel in a 1960’s Tucker, and an old weathered lodge. This is the natural patina of skiing and snowboarding, captured at Mt. Mancelona.

Looking down Mt Mancelona, miskireport.com

Read on for more about the project and some production stills. A cool site we found is Michigan Lost Ski Areas Project (MILSAP). Their entry for Mt. Mancelonanotes that:

In 1958, Sports Illustrated reported a 1200′ t-bar with a 300′ rise, and 5 ropes. New for 1958 were 3 rope tows, the lodge with locker room and bar, a new trail, lights for Friday night skiing and hi-fi skiing music.

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Absolute Michigan is going to jump on the Cold is Cool lift this winter - we'll be offering FREE  tickets at as many Michigan ski resorts as we can this winter as part of our regular giveaway program. Giveaways start right after Christmas so make sure you're on our email list at the bottom of this page!

To get an application, you can contact your child's school or click the picture to download one. The pass is free, but MSIA charges a $15 printing and shipping fee for each passport ordered. Participating ski areas include:

• Alpine Valley of White Lake
• Boyne Highlands of Harbor Springs
• Blackjack Resort of Bessemer
• Boyne Mountain of Boyne Falls
• Caberfae Peaks of Cadillac
• Cannonsburg Ski Area of Cannonsburg
• Cross Country Ski Headquarters of Roscommon
• Crystal Mountain of Thompsonville
• Hanson Hills of Grayling
• Mt. Brighton of Brighton
• Mt. Holiday of Traverse City
• Norway Mountain of Norway
• Nubs Nob of Harbor Springs
• Shanty Creek of Bellaire
• Ski Brule of Iron River
• Snow Snake Ski & Golf of Harrison
• Swiss Valley Ski Area of Jones
• The Homestead of Glen Arbor
• Timber Ridge Ski Area of Gobles
• Treetops Resort of Gaylord

If you're not a 4th grader or don't have one, you should check out the $189 White Gold Cards - they're good for one ticket at each of 29 Michigan ski resorts!

Photo courtesy Snow Snake Ski & Golf.

Absolute Michigan is committed to helping our readers get more out of Michigan. To that end, we have created an exciting new program featuring regular giveaways of products and services from all kinds of Michigan businesses, including ski resorts! It's free, fun and all you have to do to be eligible is to be on our email list - sign up using the form below. We guarantee that we will not share your email address with anyone!

If your business is interested in participating, you can get all the information right here.

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Into The Blue by Second
Glance Photos Kevin Ryan

Michigan is a skiers' paradise, boasting 42 ski areas with over 200 chairlifts, 840 runs, more than 40 terrain parks and hundreds of kilometers of groomed cross-country trails. The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA), is the trade organization for Michigan's ski areas, retail stores, and manufacturers. They report that for winter 2011, Michigan will see a colder-than-usual winter according to the 2011 Old Farmer's Almanac.

For the Upper Midwest, which includes Michigan's Northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula, the "Old Farmer's Almanac" predicts: "Winter will be much colder than normal, with temperatures 3 degrees below normal, on average, in the east and 6 degrees below in the west ... Precipitation and snowfall will be below normal in the east and above normal in the west. The snowiest periods will occur in mid-December, early January, mid- to late February, and early to late March."

For the Lower Lakes, which includes the lower two-thirds of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, as well as Northern Ohio and the Chicago area, they predict the following: "Winter will be about a degree colder than normal, on average, despite a number of mild periods. The coldest periods will occur in the second week of December, early to late January, and mid-February. Precipitation and snowfall will be below normal in the east and above normal in the west.

The MSIA has a roundup of what's new at Michigan ski resorts for 2011 and they also have some great promotions for skiers at the state's resorts including free skiing for all 4th graders and the White Gold Card which allows you to purchase a single pass that allows the holder to ski at 29 different Michigan ski areas this winter for just $189! Get all kinds of Michigan skiing links at absolutemichigan.com/Ski!

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Today we're bringing you a whole lot of information about a Michigan landmark that is very near and dear to my heart: Sugar Loaf Mountain in Leelanau County. I am indeed a Sugar Loafer. I grew up skiing there, worked as a lift operator and was taken for thousands of dollars in services rendered but never paid for by the last management company to run the resort and was one of the leaders of a movement to try and acquire the resort as a community ski area. That effort was halted when the current owner, Kate Wickstrom purchased Sugar Loaf.

Since then, the resort has lain dormant. Then, about a month ago, Liko Smith emerged on the scene as a potential savior for the resort. Close on his heels were a slew of stories and accusations that have made many question whether we're climbing back on the merry-go-round of disappointment that has become synonymous with the name of Sugar Loaf. Today I'd like to present for your consideration a wide range of information including an interview with Mr. Smith on Absolute Michigan Radio co-sponsored by Traverse Legal, so that you can come to your own conclusions.

Play: Extreme Entreprenuer Reopens Sugar Loaf
(click title to listen)

With: Liko Smith

Sponsored by: Absolute Michigan , Traverse Internet Law

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Read Show Transcript

Publish to My Site

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powered by Vertio.net

Jacob Wheeler of the Glen Arbor Sun has a feature looking at Liko Smith, his business connections and what it would take to resurrect the long-beleaguered ski resort:

Michael Berry, President of the Denver-based National Ski Areas Association, thought that reopening Sugar Loaf was entirely possible. Berry guessed that one could acquire new ski lifts and snowmaking equipment at Sugar Loaf for $4-5 million, and satisfy insurance company standards within two or three months (there are only two or three players in the industry).

...But one ski expert at a Midwestern resort, who asked to remain anonymous, doubted Berry's optimistic prognosis for Sugar Loaf, and estimated that it would cost at least $10-15 million to buy equipment, make snow, and open the hills. He added that Smith would have to order lifts by next month, or there would be no way to get them in time for next winter.

...“Sugar Loaf would have to pull skiers away from (nearby resorts) Crystal Mountain, Nubs Nob and Boyne. … The market isn't getting any bigger. Sugar Loaf would have to draw from the existing players.”

Click through to read more and other coverage from the Glen Arbor Sun.

If you'd like to meet Liko and hear more about his plans, there's a $100 Quad Fund mixer at Red Ginger in Traverse City. More about that and more from Liko at likosmith.com. (hint: click the "Friends of Sugar Loaf" for some interesting reading and insight into Liko Smith and the feeling in the community).

You can find more discussion about this on Leelanau.com which has followed the saga of Sugar Loaf for a decade, but by far the most active discussion has taken place in the Friends of Sugar Loaf group on Facebook.

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In this Absolute Michigan Sponsor Spotlight, we make a brief visit to the Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor, Michigan and take a lesson with their Director of Skiing, Logan Price.

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Nick writes: Yes, it's true. You don't have to live in Utah to ski the deep stuff. Here's some nice tele turns in a couple of unknown locations in northern Michigan.

The skiers in the video above are using telemark skis, about which Wikipedia says:

Telemark skiing is a term used for skiing using the Telemark turn. It is also known as " free heel skiing." Unlike alpine skiing equipment, the skis used for telemarking have a binding that only connects the boot to the ski at the toes, just as in cross-country skiing...

The Telemark turn came to the attention of the Norwegian public in 1868, when Sondre Norheim took part in a ski jumping competition. Norheim's technique of fluid turns soon dominated skiing, and in Norway it continued to do well into the next century. Starting in the 1910s, newer techniques based on the stem gradually replaced Telemark in the Alpine countries. Newer techniques were easier to master and enabled shorter turns better suited for steeper alpine terrain and skiing downhill. The Telemark turn became the technique of ski touring in rolling terrain.

Speaking of telemark skiing & Northern Michigan, Pure Michigan notes that the Michigan Telemark Festival takes place February 19-21 at The Homestead Resort. The event features telemark demos, clinics for all ability levels and more - call (231) 334-5000 for details.

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gkretovic (Greg Kretovic) says that he lives for the outdoor and loves capturing it with his camera in unique ways, especially the opportunities offered by the Upper Peninsula.

He took this photo at last weekends Pine Mountain Ski Jumping Tournament. His sets include nature and you'll want to check out some of his tags including waterfalls and upper peninsula (slideshow).

Much more in his Flickriver.

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Cabin fever taking hold? Well here are a couple of great reasons to embrace winter in northern Michigan. The Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association presents "Taste the Passion ~ Wine, Chocolate & Love". The following weekend as part of the Cherry Capital Winter WonderFest is the "Traverse City Wine & Art Festival Winter Wine Wonderland" on February 14th. Tickets to these events are limited and we are told they are selling at a steady pace. Get yours today through the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association website.

Taste the Passion ~ Wine, Chocolate & Love - February 6 & 7, 2010

This special weekend celebrates wine, chocolate and love in anticipation of Valentine's Day! The combination of winter's beauty in Leelanau with the special pleasures of life always makes for wonderful weekend. Then the fun begins on Saturday as participants head to their first winery stop to collect a souvenir glass and continues with special pours and decadent chocolate treats and other offerings at wineries between the hours of 11am and 5pm on Saturday, and Noon and 5pm on Sunday. To add to the weekend's festivities, several of the wineries will hold special events and activities exclusively for "Taste the Passion" ticket holders to celebrate the beauty and fun to be had in this winter wonderland. On Friday night (Feb 5) at Mountain Flowers Lodge from 6-8pm, the Homestead Resort and Glen Arbor Artists will be hosting "Art from Michigan's Wine Coast." Art will be on display and for sale from local artists.

Video from Taste the Passion 2009!

Traverse City Wine & Art Festival Winter Wine Wonderland - February 14, 2010

The public is invited to experience the fun and romance of local wine, desserts, art, music, and Valentine's Day at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa during the Winter Wine Wonderland - a celebration of wine, gourmet desserts, and art. The event is the winter version of the popular Traverse City Wine & Art Festival held annually in August.

The Winter Wine Wonderland will take place on Sunday, February 14, from 3 to 8 p.m. in a large heated tent located next to the Resort's Clubhouse. Approximately 20 wineries from Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, and Traverse City will offer tastings of a variety of white, red, and sparkling wines, plus ice wine and mulled wine.

The festival will also feature a unique musical experience. The New Third Coast will provide backing for a select group of Northern Michigan musicians singing love songs. Musicians include Ingemar & Lisa Johansson, Jay Webber, Elizabeth Rivers, Janice Keegan and Claudia Schmidt. Also on hand will be the Beach Bards who will perform some love poems.

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SNOWBOARD Training in Gaylord, Michigan
by MyWheelsareTurning

Yesterday my son Jamie returned from the Otsego Club near Gaylord with a shirt covered with signatures and a smile the size of a half pipe. The reason? In Northern Michigan, an Olympic Training Hot Spot Has Emerged in the New York Times explains:

When word spread through the woods of northern Michigan that world-class snowboarders had gathered in this little town to train for the coming Winter X Games and the Vancouver Olympics, locals jokingly asked if they had become horribly lost on their way to a real ski resort in Colorado or British Columbia.

But the elite snowboarding world has discovered neither true Alpine conditions nor a chic ski resort are needed for high-level training. All one needs is enough snow to build a 22-foot halfpipe and get the word out.

The Otsego Club in Gaylord built its first Olympic-size halfpipe for this season, and the world's elite snowboarders are coming in droves to train.

UPDATE!! New video

Read on and really think about taking yourself and/or your kids to see real, live Olympians doing what they do best, right here in Michigan!

MyNorth.com shot a sweet video of Olympic snowboarders laying down tricks using the Acrobag - check it out.

While this feature from Michigan Radio dwells overmuch on the dangers of flying 32 feet over rock hard ice, they do have a tremendously sweet video:

About the photo: This photo shows New Zealand rider Ben Stewart launching off of the half-pipe while teammate James Hamilton makes his way up the slope . It was taken by my friend photographer and photojournalist Gary Howe, who also runs a cool blog about alternate modes of transit called My Wheels are Turning.

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Mulligans Hollow, photo by GH Patriot.

I had originally thought about a more sober and reflective photo as we head into 2010, but when I saw this one in the Absolute Michigan pool this morning, I changed my mind.

I don't think that anyone can deny that the first decade of the 21st century has been a brutal one for Michigan. We've lost a staggering amount of jobs, countless public services and tens of thousands of residents.

While we probably have farther to fall, it feels to me like we're reaching the point where we'll have to readjust to the world as it is and make some changes in what we do and the way we do it in Michigan.

My mood as we head into 2010? Happy. Hopeful. Ready for some hard work.

How about you?

View this photo bigger or check out his whole Mulligans Hollow slideshow for more big air.

PS: If you're looking for something to do tonight, here's Absolute Michigan's New Year's Eve Happenings.

PPS: Governor Granholm has proclaimed January as Michigan Snow Sports Month. I hear that Absolute Michigan will be something with that.

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"We've extended our efforts to stay connected with travelers. Social media allows us to get the Pure Michigan message out to potential visitors on other platforms," commented George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, a business unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "It opens another line of communication with travelers."

In addition to the most popular state tourism Web site, michigan.org, visitors now have other means to stay up-to-date on Michigan tourism deals, discounts and events.

Connect and get the inside scoop on where the fish are biting, what greens are running fast and how you can make your visit Pure Michigan at the newly launched blog, Pure Michigan Connect. Read about bloggers' experiences along the nation's longest fresh water coastline or experience at a small town celebration. Take a minute to comment on the blog posts, or submit one of your own.

Follow @PureMichigan on Twitter for the latest events and breaking news, along with some fun behind-the-scenes information on all the things going on with Michigan tourism. Search hashtags #puremichigan, #MIevents, #MIdine, #MIgolf, #MIfish, and #MIwine, for all the latest.

Join the Pure Michigan Fan Page on Facebook to stay up-to-date on all the latest events in Michigan and talk to others with the same love for Michigan. The fan page is another great resource for planning a trip.

In addition, visitors can now enjoy all the photos from the Pure Michigan Photo Contest on Flickr, or watch all of the Pure Michigan commercials on YouTube.

Michigan.org continues to be a source for Michigan travel information, featuring more than 12,000 attractions, events, hotels, resorts, restaurants and other tourism-related businesses.

Travel Michigan, a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, is the State of Michigan's official agency for the promotion of tourism. Travel Michigan markets the state's tourism industry and provides valuable visitor information services.

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Face Plant by by Rudy Malmquist

We try to be as positive as possible, but I do hope that everyone (and yes, I'm looking at you elected officials) is preparing to need to do extraordinary things to keep our state and the people in it afloat.

1. Jack Lessenberry spoke with Ismael Ahmed, director of the Michigan Department of Human Services, who worries that Michigan is nearing the cliff, staring down:

...an explosion in poverty, in need, in families slipping below the water line, just at a time when he knows he is going to have to do much, much more with less money...

(Ahmed says) "We've seen a dramatic increase in poverty in the state. More than one-fourth of children are living in poverty. "More than 2 million people are living below the poverty line, and that's still increasing. And when you count people who are working but who just don't make enough to live, that increases to about a third of the state."

2. When we look at our massive deficit, it's instructive to look at what's behind it. Peter Luke at mLive points out that tax cuts have left Michigan unable to invest in itself:

The Headlee amendment to the Michigan Constitution is simple. The state can collect up to 9.49 percent of personal income in taxes and fees approved by the Legislature. Anything over that has to be returned to taxpayers. The aim was to cap the growth of government.

...in funding essential services, state government in 2010 will collect a little more than half -- $14 billion-- of what the father of the modern conservative movement in Michigan thought appropriate.

For all the hand-wringing over how to return to prosperity, Michigan is unable to make long-term investments in its future.

Luke gets bashed in the comments on his article, but the case he makes that we have cut ourselves into a corner is worth a little thought.

3. On the bright side, the Michigan Policy Network says that our corner is nowhere near as dark as California's:

The projected FY2009 budget gap is 672 million dollars. This number is significant, and additional cuts or tax increases are needed to stabilize Michigan's economy. However, this budget deficit is only 2.9% of the size of the total projected budget, a comparatively small margin. While the situation seems significant, consider California. The nation's biggest state has an astounding projected deficit of 35.9 billion dollars. That's 35.5% of the total projected 2009 budget.

4. The Freep takes a look at a few measures designed to spark our sputtering economy.

5. Finally, I'd like to direct you over to Michigan in Pictures where you can see this photo from the pentax hammer bigger and hopefully take a little hope into your day from these words:

In the depth of winter I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.
~ Albert Camus

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Ice Rink by Allan M

The event started in 2005 as a tuneup to Super Bowl XL and was called the Motown Winter Blast. It's now called Detroit's Winter Blast and it happens February 6-8, 2009.

In what has become typical Michigan media fashion, the Detroit News fills the glass half full, dwelling on what you won't get. They grudgingly allow that 40 musical acts, 60 restaurants and three downtown hotels (including the newly-renovated Book Cadillac) offering discounted rates to families just might make it worth the trip. Not to be out-glummed, the Freep leads with the 2 of clubs as well but does finish nicely:

"We could have taken the philosophy, if you can't do it the way you did it in the past, then you shouldn't do it," (Festival organizer John) Witz said. "We took the different philosophy. We tried to create as much magic as we can for as little cost as possible ... "We are featuring more made in Michigan products this year. The wine tasting is going to be with Michigan wines," Witz said. "The ice sculptures will have a Michigan theme."

The festival will include ice-skating exhibitions, marshmallow roasting, ice sculptures, and an arts and crafts area. Festival-goers can skate in Campus Martius Park for free, courtesy of michigan.org.

The MetroPCS Dine in the D program is back. The program offers diners a 15% discount at some of Detroit's finest restaurants. This year, the participating restaurants will each donate up to 10% of their sales (before tax) to Michigan's Children's Center.

MSNBC adds that a major attraction will be the ice slide at Campus Martius Park. It's called the Arctic Blast and it opened last Friday and you can get a live look-in at it on the Campus Martius Park webcam.

More information and full schedule of performances are on the official site for the Detroit Winter Blast. If you want to see more photos, check out Detroit Winter Blast by Rohn Photos and Motown Winter Blast by Pasque.

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All winter we have the chance to walk on water, frozen water that is. Snowshoeing allows us to walk into the magic of winter, discovering the quiet sounds and subtle colors that await our discovery, often right outside our backdoor. Snowshoeing in Michigan is available to anyone who can walk; basically we can all discover the miracle of winter and walking on water.

The event Snowshoe d' Art offers us that opportunity. Spend a morning discovering the beauty of northern Michigan and the hidden beauty of the Michigan Legacy Art Park on Saturday, January 31st. The art park offers a snow-covered gallery of sculptures, a visual hide and seek of shapes and colors. All ages can begin their Saturday morning with a choice of guided tours, sharing it with friends or enjoying it alone.

Besides the spiritual side of snowshoeing, there is the obvious physical benefit of getting outside and discovering the winter landscape.

Snowshoeing is a weigh baring activity that all ages can participate in. It offers an aerobic workout that builds muscular strength in both the legs and upper body (when poles are used). Snowshoeing offers a low impact activity that is easy on joints especially in deep powder and the design of snowshoes act as shock absorbers on hard packed snow.

High caloric expenditure is another perk- allowing us to drink more hot cocoa and enjoy the comfort foods of the winter season!

There is no excuse to feel good, and connect with your inner spirit and strengthen your physical body!

Women's Winter Tour Weekend - January 31 - February 1, 2009

You can register for Saturday's Snowshoe d'Art at womenswintertour.com. It's just one of many events the Women's Winter Tour Weekend at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville offers. The weekend benefits Active Women Now, an organization dedicated to supporting domestic abuse charities and shelters. Check the schedule for complete details, and definitely think about Saturday night's LUNAFEST and Chocolate, where you can learn about the nuances of African & South American chocolate while watching the short films in the LUNAFEST national traveling film festival. It's followed by   dancing in your best sixties costume with music from the Fabulous Horndogs. On Sunday there's the original WWT, a cross-country ski or snowshoe through scenic, private courses with great food, wine and chocolate featured along the trail and at the main staging area!

About the Author

Kaye Krapohl is the founder of the Women's Winter Tour, and believes that art, as well as outdoor activity is a vital part of a person's development. An artist herself, she envisioned the Snowshoe d'Art as a way to help share her love of winter, but also support two causes near and dear to her heart: resources for women struggling to escape an unhealthy relationship by donating funds to domestic abuse centers and an appreciation for art.

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Boyne 540 by farlane

While Winter 2008 hasn't been good for things like car makers, investments and national economies, it has presented us with some incredible conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

USA Today noticed that Midwest skiers have all kinds of options in Michigan where we have more downhill areas - 42 - than any state except New York with 200 chairlifts, 840 runs and 40 terrain parks! Our Michigan Ski Tour series from last year runs them all down and remains a great resource for skiers and snowboarders, giving you a tour of where to cross-country or downhill ski or board.

• Southeast Lower Michigan
• Southwest Lower Michigan
• Northeast Lower Michigan
• Northwest Lower Michigan
• Upper Peninsula
• Cross Country Skiing
• Racing, Events & More

If you're just starting out, check out the Discover Michigan Skiing program that offers a chance to get equipment, ticket and lessons in January for the low (low) price of $30!

You can get a bunch more ski links on the Absolute Michigan Skiing & Snowboard page and also at the keywords skiing and snowboard. Some of our favorite links are the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (featuring links to Michigan ski areas and all kinds of deals for skiers like the White Gold Card & free skiing for Michigan 4th graders), the powder-packed Michigan Ski Blog (deals, snow reports & webcams), Jim Neff's Michigan Skier TV and great Michigan destinations like Copper Peak Ski Flying and  the U.S. National Ski Hall of Fame and Ski Museum.

If you have a link or a thought about Michigan skiing, schuss down to the comments and let us know!

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Skilhouettes by greencottage

Michigan ski resorts and McDonald's restaurants are once again offering Discover Michigan Skiing, an affordable introduction to the skiing and snowboarding.

The program has run every January for the past 15 years and includes a beginner lesson (covering basic maneuvering on skis or snowboards), ski or snowboard rental equipment and a beginner-area ski lift pass or cross-country trail pass. Twenty-four ski areas are offering the package January 5 through January 31, 2009.

The price for downhill or cross-country skiing is $30 for adults and $25 for children seven to 14 years old and the snowboard price is $40 for everyone 10 years and older. You'll need a voucher that you can pick up at participating McDonald's restaurants and also MSIA retail ski stores. If you can't find one there, you can also click on the link above.

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Load Here by btwphotography

The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) reports that thanks to our current bout of wintry weather, most ski areas across Michigan have fired up their snow guns. Some will open this weekend and more will be open by Thanksgiving. Ski areas planning to open on or before Friday, November 28 include: Boyne Mountain, Boyne Highlands, Marquette Mountain, Ski Brule, Crystal Mountain, Nubs Nob, Alpine Valley, Mt. Holly, Mt. Brighton, Pine Knob, Indianhead Mountain, Pine Mountain, Caberfae Peaks, Cannonsburg, Norway Mountain and Shanty Creek.

The MSIA also reminds you that Michigan 4th graders can ski for free! Click that link for details on how to get their tickets and also information about the White Gold Card - a pass that gives skiers of all ages a chance to ski at each of 29 ski areas!

If you're looking for more deals on Michigan skiing, be sure to check out the Michigan Ski & Snowboarding blog. In addition to deals on lift tickets and lodging from all across the state, they have snow reports, webcams and ski & snowboarding video.

Did somebody say video? Skiers know that it's not ski season until Warren Miller's latest film hits the screen. You can watch a trailer below and visit the Warren Miller web site find dates and locations for any of the many screenings in Michigan in the next few weeks! (go big with the 5 minute trailer and thanks michiganskiblog.com for the pointer!)

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NW vista by DA2Brian

Marquette, MI has been named one of the top 200 places in the U.S. for sportsmen and women to put their roots down in the April edition of Outdoor Life magazine.

These places exist in every state, towns where you can step out your back door with a fly rod or a shotgun and find abundant fishing and hunting opportunity in sight of the municipal water tower. Areas with decent weather and accessible public land and gun laws that don't criminalize hunters. Places where the economy is vibrant but the pace of life is slow. Towns with good schools and hospitals and a strong sense of community.

Places where you can wear fishing waders or a camouflage hunting jacket into a bar and not call attention to yourself.

Marquette ranked #7 on their list, which considered access to public areas for quality hunting and fishing, economically viability of the region and hospitality of the towns. The area's leading appeals were huge diversity of fish, from native brookies to rainbows and lake-run brown trout to steelhead, salmon, lake trout, walleye and pike.

Check out Marquette's Presque Isle from YouTube as well as this 3D tour of Marquette's downtown video. Absolute Michigan's Flickr group has many more great Marquette photos to view.

Check out web sites and features at Absolute Michigan keyword Marquette and get information on Marquette's history, demographics, geography and more visit Wikipedia entry for Marquette.

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John has several photos from yesterday's Michigan Regional Ski Championships at Alpine Valley in White Lake.

He's a professional photographer and his FrawgByte Photography site has probably the best frog-based logo animation ever. His sets include Winter Sports, Equestrian and Scenic.

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Todd (cedarkayak) was the 900th person to join the Absolute Michigan group on Flickr. I figured that since the kayak (which he built) was the basis for his user name, it made sense to select this photo of the South Manitou Island Lighthouse. He writes that he used a sail to speed the crossing from Glen Haven to South Manitou Island and this photo is part of his great North and South Manitou Islands set.

The 25,000th (!!) photo added to the Absolute Michigan pool is (fittingly) a photo of the aftermath of the huge New Year Snow Storm (4th biggest in SE Michigan history!) that David took in the Shiawassee Wildlife Refuge near Saginaw.

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Featured music is White Bird by Song of the Lakes from their CD Poets Say - follow that link for an MP3 of the full song and to hear and order their music.

ON A COLD WINTER'S NIGHT by robmelody

This episode was underwritten by Leelanau.com webdesign, makers of quality internet since 1996.

The Weather Outside Is Frightful, photo by siskokid

Snowmaking on Victor @ Boyne Mountain, photo by Boyne Mountain

Carousel, photo by jnhkrawczyk. She writes: A carousel (or carrousel) is an amusement ride consisting of a rotating platform with seats for passengers. The "seats" are traditionally in the form of wooden horses or animals, which are often moved mechanically up and down to simulate galloping. This leads to one of the machine's alternative names, the galloper. Other popular names are merry-go-round, roundabout and flying horses. Usually, music is looped while the rides spins. (Wikipedia)

The Absolute Michigan Archive for December 2007 has all our December features.

Service Tax repeal appears certain and www.michigan.gov/mbt.

The 1913 Massacre Film Project, Italian Hall Massacre, Christmas Eve 1913 and photos from The Copper Miner's Strike of 1913 and the tragedy at Calumet's Italian Hall on Michigan in Pictures and Michigan Tech's Digital Archive (search "Italian Hall")

Absolute Michigan's Michigan Ski Tour and
Michigan 4th graders ski for free (includes info on White Gold Card).

Michigan New Years Eve Happenings and the Michigan January Event Calendar.

Snowmobile Olympus - Ironwood, photo by North Guide and Ironwood Sledfest event information.

Our Dog Team, photo by Gradys Kitchen and the Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race.

Chain of Skaters, photo by Ashley Dinges

Add your photos to the Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr and add your videos to the Absolute Michigan Group on YouTube.

The Waiting Room II, photo by caterpillars

Window on the City, photo by SNWEB.ORG Photography

pru center fogged, photo by buckshot.jones

ON A COLD WINTER'S NIGHT, photo by robmelody

Leaving Albion, photo by Andy McFarlane

Tyree Guyton, photo by rckrawczykjr

Lit Snow, photo by J.E.T

Christmas on Empire Beach 07, photo by 1cher (why yes, they ARE swimming on Christmas Day.)

Icy, photo by Bethann

Comments? Questions? Things you'd like to see? Let us know in the comments below or by email!

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