Recreation

New book highlights eco-friendly Michigan travel destinations

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By Greg Monahan
Great Lakes Echo
A new book from longtime journalist Sally Barber takes an environmentally conscious look at exploring outdoor attractions around the Great Lakes state. A new book from longtime journalist Sally Barber takes an environmentally conscious look at exploring outdoor attractions around the Great Lakes state. The Michigan Eco-Traveler is for a “new and growing breed of travelers” who travel with the intention of minimizing the ecological footprint they leave behind. The book has nine chapters, with sections that include features on sustainable kayaking, ski slopes and the most eco-friendly lodging options in the state. “I wanted to show travelers that they can make a positive impact while they’re enjoying the outdoors,” said Barber, a lifelong Michigan resident.

Wildlife

Wildlife Forever announces 16th annual State-Fish Art contest

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The contest originated in Minnesota in 1999 to promote learning about state fish.The deadline is fast approaching for Wildlife Forever’s annual State-Fish Art Contest! To enter, students (K-12) must submit a portfolio that consists of a handmade artistic depiction of the fish in its natural habitat and a brief personal essay. Entries may be submitted about any state fish or fish of Ontario, Canada. Winners are grouped by grade level and are chosen for artwork and written work, on both the state and national level. Entries must be received by March 31, 2014.

Wildlife

Poet, artist explore birds

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What started as a note on a friend’s windshield evolved into “The Unauthorized Audubon,” a whimsical poetry and art book that offers a peek into a world of quirky imaginary birds.

Echo

Exhibit preserves artifacts of endangered places

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Many scientists predict that as climate change becomes more extreme, dry and coastal regions around the globe will be heavily impacted by drought and rising sea levels. Entire communities could disappear. The art project, ‘A People’s Archive of Sinking and Melting,’ documents these threatened areas.

Recreation

Play brings drama of historical Great Storm to the stage

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The Great Lakes Storm of 1913 is widely considered to be the defining tragedy of the region. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the storm that claimed the lives of more than 250 people and destroyed 19 ships. Now that tragedy is coming to the stage. “The Great Storm,” a play directed by Warren L. Robinson, follows the stories of two families whose worlds are shaken by the disaster. The play is part of the three-month long “A Remembrance of the Great Lakes Storm of 1913“ event, established by the Port of Goderich in Ontario and a group of volunteers in the Lake Huron community.

Land

Book explores Detroit’s unreal estate

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What do you do with urban territory that has fallen out of the literal economy?

A University of Michigan architecture professor suggests community gardens flourishing in empty lots, artists using fire-damaged buildings as palettes and neighborhood fairs in alleys.