Michigan Snowmobiler & ORV - June 2024

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Off- Road Rumble What’s Inside • The Owosso Speedway: Perfect Race Destination For the serious fan and family fun!

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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KEWEENAH BIKE ADVENTURES AWAIT!

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OWOSSO SPEEDWAY: PERFECT RACE DESTINATION

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Michigan Snowmobiler + ORV Magazine.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • JUNE • 2024

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5/29/24 9:48 AM

from the editor

A

t Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we have been celebrating the teamwork between this magazine, the I-500 committee, and Owosso Speedway (the I-500 title sponsor).

All month long I have been thinking of what a small world it is within our community of enthusiasts. For years Scott and I have visited BJ’s Family Restaurant, located in Corunna, MI. The restaurant sits nine miles directly east of the speedway.

We often grab an almost home cooked breakfast or lunch in order to drop off a stack of the latest issue on their counter. We stop at least twice a month and have gotten to know most

of the waitstaff by first name.

Wouldn’t you know it, one of our favorite waitress’ dad – competes at Owosso Speedway. He has been a local favorite for years.

He is taking the competition a little more seriously this year with a brandnew racecar, but after all these years, what a coincidence that we have this sport in common. After talking last weekend, we also found out that her dad raced at Whittemore Speedway. A favorite racetrack from Scott and I’s dating days (29 plus years ago) because Scott’s grandpa was one of the volunteers that helped start the Whittemore track just after the end of World

War II. We had a ton of fun exchanging race stories.

Think there might be a future story here…

Regardless, just taking a moment to celebrate how fortunate we are in Michigan to have so many ways to connect with friends and family through outdoor events and tasty food! I like to mention locally owned eateries that we visit around our home and while on the road. And, doing my best to describe what we were doing while eating!

Hard to find a better way to get to know a new friend than over a satisfying meal, in a relaxing atmosphere, while talking about an outrageously fun event.

Hope you found inspiration to do something new, talk with someone new or eat somewhere new within

our pages! As always at Michigan Snowmobiler and ORV, we hope each of you is enjoying good health while dreaming of fun and the sound of revving engines after reading our magazine! We look forward to seeing everyone at local events, chapter meetings and volunteering in support of Michigan Snowmobiling and ORVs. Please remember to keep all our veterans and first esponders in your thoughts and prayers.

Please feel free to reach out to us. We love to hear from our readers. Be safe and enjoy the tracks and trails until our next issue.

As alway, you can reach out to us at Michigan Snowmobiler at scottd@faragoassoc.com

PUBLISHER | Peter Farago

VOLUME 57 - NUMBER 7

EDITOR | Ann Drzewiecki

Founded September 1967

ADVERTISING MANAGER | Scott Drzewiecki

EXECUTIVE OFFICES, ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL AND CIRCULATION OFFICES:

CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR | Michelle Sheridan

30600 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 306 Farmington Hills, Michigan 48434 810.348.1325 scottd@faragoassoc.com www.michsnowmag.com

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR | Chelsie Dzbanski Fontenelle WEB MANAGER | Kelly Kosek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS | Ric Federau, Patrick Grzebinski ,Terri Norey, Mike Olmstead, Dominic Santina, Jay Haven, Joyce Wiswell

THE MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER+ORV is an independent publication endorsing the goals of MISORVA, and other associations. Opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the editor or contributing writers, and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of t MSA, or their board of directors. Reproduction of material in whole or part is prohibited, unless authorized in writing by the publisher - all rights reserved.

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER and ORV INC., The Michigan Snowmobiler is published 10 times per year, September through February and May through August.

SALES | Scott Drzewiecki, Peter Farago DESIGNERS | Kelly Kosek, Kaitlyn Schoen

Call or go online for your subscription today 810.348.1325 | michsnowmag.com

4 | JUNE • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV 04_JUNE_MSORV_Editors Letter.indd 4

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04_JUNE_MSORV_Editors Letter.indd 5

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5/29/24 6:19 AM

Keweenaw Bike Adventures Await!

06_JUNE_MSORV_Keweenaw Bike Adventures Await!.indd 6

5/29/24 7:06 AM

NATHAN MILLER, COPPER HARBOR TRAILS CLUB

Bike with your friends or family on these group friendly trails.

BY JAY HAVEN KEWEENAW TRAILBLAZER

A

s the last traces of snow melt away, revealing the rugged terrain beneath, excitement permeates the air in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Mountain bikers, eager to trade their skis and snowboards for wheels, can soon emerge from their hibernation.

Put that restless energy to use and set your sights on the untamed beauty of biking world class trails in Michigan’s northernmost destination: the Keweenaw Peninsula. If you’re riding this far north, you’re on a real quest for adventure.

This playground is where nature reigns supreme.

Hear the hum of tires on singletrack, and find serenity while biking through the great outdoors.

From canalside adventures, to cliffs and underground routes – you’ll want to bike the Keweenaw this summer.

You’ll need a mountain bike or fat tire bike to ride most trails in the Keweenaw. Though, any type of bike is a great way to view the Hancock and Houghton trails on the Portage Canal. If you’re looking for a long ride, the waterfront trail from Houghton to Chassell, Michigan is approximately 9 miles each way! These waterside trails are both walker and dog friendly too. Portage Paddle Sports rents bikes to folks looking to cycle around Houghton and Hancock. continued on page 8

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • JUNE • 2024

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5/29/24 7:06 AM

NATHAN MILLER, COPPER HARBOR TRAILS CLUB

Incredible vistas await. continued from page 7

Looking for a sneaky amount of elevation to ride in Hancock close to the Portage Canal?

Look no further than the Hancock Trails. The Maasto Hiihto and Churning Rapids systems take you on a hidden journey into Hancock’s backwoods. Maasto Hiihto means cross country ski in Finnish, but it’s a biking and hiking paradise in summer.

These trails have access points via the Houghton County Fairgrounds by the dog park and by the Hancock Public Works.

Find beautiful boardwalks, bridges and updated trails in this gorge carved by Swedetown Creek in Hancock. The trails seem hidden from town, and that’s because they have some great elevation changes for riders to enjoy back in the gorge.

Hancock Trails Club Board Member Nathan Laakonen says it’s a great place to advance your skills.

“At Churning Rapids, we have a trail Pow Pow, which links into Finney Creek,” said Laakonen. “It’s about a mile and a half, mostly flowing downhill. It has a couple

bridges and some good elevation and flow to it.

Laakonen says there is another fun favorite to share.

“We have a trail called ‘And Flow’ which is as it sounds,” explained Laakonen. “It was built as a dirt jump trail probably 10 years ago. It’s about a quarter-mile-long jump line. So you can get air or if you’re not a jumper, everything is rollable. You can just go fast and smooth and go right through everything.”

Go out to the Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton for another two-wheeled adventure close to the canal. The beauty of riding the Keweenaw trails is you could ride here for weeks. With so many different trail systems to explore it’s impossible to get bored.

If a disconnect from the bustling city is what you’re truly looking for, try heading north. Take US-41 from Houghton/Hancock to Calumet to check out the Swedetown Trails, or further to Copper Harbor for some of the most scenic views and trails in the whole Keweenaw. If you stop

8 | JUNE • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV 06_JUNE_MSORV_Keweenaw Bike Adventures Await!.indd 8

5/29/24 7:06 AM

NATHAN MILLER, COPPER HARBOR TRAILS CLUB

HOUGHTON LAKE

in Calumet, go to Cross Country Sports to get your bike tuned up or buy some new gear. You can also get rentals here and great advice on where to ROSCOMMON ride!

A few spots to see COUNTY near the harbor on your bike: Hunter’s Point Park Home to the Saint and Brockway Mountain.

Helen Scramble Hunter’s Point Park is Area and miles a literal hidden gem of ORV trails. along M-26 just outside Copper Harbor. It boasts Rock Climb GPS a beautiful rocky beach 44˚20.148N – 84˚22.865W known for Yooperlites Where the road ends and Agates. The turn VisitHoughtonLake.com and adventure begins. to the park off the road for trail conditions and upcoming events can catch you quick if copperharbor.org HOUGHTON LAKE AREA TOURISM BUREAU you’re not looking out for it. Here, you can TOLL FREE 800-676-5330

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continued on page 10

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A fun, creative spot to grab a bite5/29/24 7:07 AM

See the stunning Portage Lake Lift Bridge as you commute into the Keweenaw.

continued from page 9

park to get on the Hunter’s Point Bike Path. Pass by beautiful forest and wildlife as you make your way toward the Trail’s End Campground. The campground hosts the publicly accessible Orchard Trail, opened in late 2023.

This beginner friendly park and ride trail system is a great place for families to ride. Downhill trails The Flow and Overflow both connec down to Hunter Point Bike Path from Brockway Mountain Drive.

You can ride from Hunter’s Point Park to Fort Wilkins State Park for a historical bike tour in Copper Harbor.

Brockway Mountain boasts a thrilling trail selection. From Flying Squirrel, to On the Edge you’ll

have no trouble riding your bike of choice on Brockway Mountain.

Enjoy 360-degree views of Copper Harbor and Lake Superior as you push your way up and enjoy the ride down. The breeze feels great.

A popular place to park and ride in Copper Harbor is the Welcome Center on the corner of US-41 and 2nd Street. Across the street from the Welcome Center is Keweenaw Adventure Company which runs shuttle services for mountain bikers and rentals. If you want to get your land legs acclimated to Lake Superior – the guide service does paddles in the harbor and around Porter’s Island.

Need another reason to pack your favorite bike, a friend, and get to

the Keweenaw this summer? How about a bike ride through one of Michigan’s Copper Mines? Every year, Ride the Keweenaw kicks off with an underground ride through Greenland’s Adventure Mine. Bike like a miner with a helmet and flashlight on this one-of-a-kind course. Ride the Keweenaw is held on Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-26 this year and registration is open. It takes riders from Greenland, Michigan all the way to Copper Harbor on different rides.

If one underground ride isn’t enough, come back for Miner’s Revenge July 12-14 in Greenland for a range of rides. There’s an XC race, kids rides and a downhill enduro. The weather in the area will continued on page 12

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Continued on page Mark “the mous Bird” Mark was28totally dedimouswho Detroit Tiger.another faeams, I Fidrych,

January, 2020 - MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER 27 g Continued on page 28 m the Snow- mous Detroit Tiger. day. And, have overncome. And, are so very at happy. All of a sudden, whatever it is that’s I bothering me just does y not seem that bad after all. k Over the years, I bee came friends with many of the Warriors. w Some, like Vic Batanni, ll The athletics are the reason for the wona former President, k “the and Ken Mattei, anderful things the Wertz warriors do. e en Mat- other President, who I y got to know because of

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Plus, many many others.

Then, there was Mark “the Bird” Fidrych, another famous Detroit Tiger.

Like Vic Wertz, Mark was also hugely famous from his days as a Tiger. And, like Vic, Mark was totally dediContinued on page 28

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As you explore, remember the region is not only a playground for outdoor enthusiasts but a living testament to the resilient communities that call it home. From its past rooted in copper mining to it’s present-day recreation culture, the Keweenaw embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery. So, whether you’re tackling challenging singletracks, cruising along the picturesque Portage Canal, or delving into the depths of a historical mine, take a moment to ride your bike in the Keweenaw this summer. For more information on what to do in the area or where to stay go to www.visitkeweenaw.com. Keep an eye on Copper Harbor Trails status at copperharbortrails.org/trailstatus. •

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Yamaha recommends all models Side-by-Side riders an approved training Side-by-Side safetyand and older trainingwith information, see yourlicense. dealer orAlways call thewear ROHVA at 1-866-267-2751.

Read Owner’s Manual and the product warning labels before op Professional drivers depicted on closed areas. Side-by-Side models shown are recommended for use only by operators 16 years and older with a valid driver’s license.drivers Alwaysdepicted wear your seat belt, helmet, eyethat protection andshown protective clothing.

Professional on closed areas.

Side-by-Side aretake recommended for usecourse. only byFor operators 16 years a valid driver’s your seat belt, helmet, eyetheprotection and protective clothing. shown with optional accessories. Vehicle specifications subject to change. ©2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

Yamaha recommends that all Side-by-Side riders take an approved training course. For Side-by-Side safety and training information, see your dealer or callYamaha the ROHVA at 1-866-267-2751.

Read the Owner’s Manual and the training product course. warningFor labels beforeModels operation. recommends that all Side-by-Side riders take an approved Side-by-Side safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ROHVA at 1-866-267-2751. Read the Owner’s Manual and the product warning labels before operation.

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Make Owosso Speedway your weekend destination!

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m

PERFECT RACE DESTINATION For the Serious Fan and Family Fun.

BY RIC FEDERAU CONTRIBUTING WRITER

D

oesn’t matter if you’re a race junkie or if you’re on a hot date or...... if you’re simply looking for a family fun night fun for ALL ages. Then you have to take a look at the “ Owosso Speedway “. I mean, let’s face it, it’s about fun, it’s about excitement and it’s about the excellent hospitality in the venue itself that provides the family with a night that they won’t forget as you build memories.

That being said, let’s take a closer look at the Owasso Speedway and what it has to offer.

The one thing I found between all types of racing venues is the fact that we’re all there for one good reason.

We’re looking for the experience of the night. One to remember. A good time, excitement, something that you can share with others. When you share it, it multiplies. Hopefully by the time you get done reading this article you’re going to tell other people about the Owasso Speedway and what it has to offer. That being said, I’m going to take an inside and closer look to share with you what I know about the “ Owosso Speedway” and what I’ve experienced

myself. The nice thing about it? It doesn’t matter if you’re a flagman or if you’re a spectator, or for your pit crew or if you’re just looking for a night of family fun. We all have that one thing in common as I mentioned a moment ago the “experience”. So that being noted, looking at the Owosso Speedway let’s share what it has to offer. First of all. the hospitality is second to none. The whole premises of this venue was to be built around family, community and a good full field of exciting racers to follo . Let’s enter the OWOSSO Speedway through this article.

The Wheeler family has put emphasis on providing race fans and families with the highest quality “EXPERIENCE” by putting visitors as their highest priority. I can assure you as you’re reading about the “Owosso Speedway” you’ll take away information that we hope will inspire you to attend future races and it’ll help you to plan accordingly. So, get your note pad ready I’m going to do my best to share some information that will help you and your family to have the best possible continued on page 16

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • JUNE • 2024

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I-500

continued from page 15

“EXPERIENCE” when visiting the “ Owosso Speedway” LET’S START AT THE ENTRY PRICES You’ll be “experiencing” affordability.

Entry prices that are so affordable you can’t afford not to come to the track. I can assure you; you’ll be hard pressed to find a fordable prices that even come close to how inexpensive gate prices are at “Owosso Speedway” Check this out...... Guests can purchase entry online and... at the main gate.

• 21yrs & older: $14.00

• 20 yrs & under: ALL races are absolutely FREE. * Yeah, that’s right... FREE” • 60 yrs & older (well-seasoned) Only $12.00 Seating: Not a bad seat in the house, period. Obstruction free seating perched high above the track so fans can view all the action on the whole track from every angle. Great seating. With future expansion for seating, you’re going to be impressed what the “Owosso Speedway” has in store Hey... I told ya, affordable for families, hot-dates and well-

seasoned race fans. You CANNOT beat this anywhere for the Experience that builds memories.

PIT ENTRY FOR FANS Seriously? Check this out. Pit entry is possible at “ Owosso Speedway” fun for the young and old as well.

Note, for kids to enter the pit area they must be accompanied by a parent and.... must be “hand in hand “. This is outstanding for family entertainment. Another outstanding opportunity and... “EXPERIENCE”. continued on page 18

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HUNGRY? I’ve been to auto race venues throughout Michigan. The menu at “Owosso Speedway” is topflight and like entry tickets very a fordable.

Again, the plan is to cater to ALL guests, young and old. The food options are many and the quality is outstanding. Food service is well organized for large crowds. The service is fast, friendly and efficient. Prices are family affordable; the selection is outstanding.

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PARKING AVAILABILITY Mr. Wheeler has put together a parking facility to make easy access to the entry gates. Hundreds of parking spaces are available within close proximity to the main entry gate. Handi-cap parking is a priority and there are plenty of spaces available.

Guests who consider camping should contact the “ Owosso Speedway “ for instructions and availability in advance. continued on page 20

18 | JUNE • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

14_JUNE_MSORV_PERFECT RACE DESTINATION FOR THE SERIOUS FAN and FAMILY FUN.indd 18

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RESTROOM FACILITIES Restrooms are extremely clean, well maintained and close to all seating with easy access and plenty of room. Handi-cap accessible as well There ya have it race fans, a race venue destination to fit any budget with quality accommodations, friendly staffing and hospitality conducive to enhancing a race fans night of excitement. The ultimate fun night “ Experience”.

Here’s you contact follow up for advance planning and night of excitement and competitive racing.

Visit WWW.OWOSSOSPEEDWAY.COM for rate dates and policy.

There ya have it folks, what did I tell ya? “Information that will help YOU plan your next visit to the exciting “ Owosso Speedway”. One of the most prestigious 3/8 mile tracks in the Good ole U.S.A. The pleasure of sharing this information with you has been mine. The excitement and “ EXPERIENCE” will be all yours... •

20 | JUNE • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

14_JUNE_MSORV_PERFECT RACE DESTINATION FOR THE SERIOUS FAN and FAMILY FUN.indd 20

5/29/24 7:36 AM

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Bark River

Off-Road Rumble Experience the “Nascar” of Off-Road Racing at the Off Road Rumble in the U.P.

BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

22_JUNE_MSORV_Bark River Off Road Rumble.indd 22

that traversed from Bark River to where the track now sits. Racers did twenty laps to hit 100 miles.

“The track was not spectator friendly and it went through marshlands and such,” said Kwarciany. “It was primitive.”

The course was eventually shortened to a 1.5-mile track that can be seen from the elevated spectator area now.

“The facility is now top grade,” said Kwarciany. “There are concessions and a

CHAMP OFFROAD

B

ringing in close to 15,000 avid fans and 650 Pro and Sportsman racers, the Island Resort and Casino Off-Road Rumble in the U.P. is the “Nascar” of off-road racing.

The event will be held at Bark River International Raceway on August 10 and 11 this year, which is a favorite track for many. Part of the AMSOIL Off-Road Championship, it is one of seven events on the tour, and the only one in Michigan, making it even more desirable for U.P. race fans.

“Bark River is considered one of the two top racing venues in the country,” said race director, Scott Kwarciany. “Residents in this area love their off-road racing, and it’s many people’s favorite short course track.”

This year marks the event’s 48th year of the event, and there have been a lot of changes over time. The race was originally called the U.P Off-Road 100 and the track consisted of a five-mile st etch

5/29/24 7:55 AM

VICTORY VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY VICTORY VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY

VIP building for media and sponsors. It has evolved a lot.”

This family-fun event pulls in many repeat visitors who have made this an annual pilgrimage. “People put this event on their calendar and ask for vacation a year in advance,” said Michelle Palmgren, Bark River International Raceway Secretary and Sponsorship Director. “Even those who don’t love off-road racing come back year after year because the event itself is just so much fun.”

While back in the day, races were based on the number of laps, today they are timed.

With twenty different classes including amateur and professional classes, there truly is something for everyone.

“Class vehicles range from the old-style buggies to kids’ cart racing, to side-byside racing to the big professional off-road trucks,” said Kwarciany. “There are backto-back races consisting of all types of racers and vehicles for two days straight on that track.”

In terms of what makes the track so fun, Kwarciany explains its uniqueness “Bark River is considered one of the most technical tracks,” he says. “A lot of tracks are wide open but this one is narrow in the turns so the positioning with other racers is extremely important, making it about who is the best driver, not who has the best vehicle.”

He points to this as the draw. “We have people from New York, Florida, California and Canada attend every year.”

In fact, nearly all of the 1,000 onsite campsites associated with the event are sold out already. “The racing camping areas sell out sometimes within 24-hours,” said Palmgren.

Entertainment includes live music on Friday and Saturday nights as well.

Clearly, an event this big requires a continued on page 24

MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV • JUNE • 2024

22_JUNE_MSORV_Bark River Off Road Rumble.indd 23

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CHAMP OFFROAD

Off-Road Rumble

continued from page 23

GROSS MOWER SALES

hefty staff and support group. The track is owned by the Bark River Lions Club, and with 87 members, it still takes 350+ volunteers to ensure the weekend goes off without a hitch.

Proceeds from the event support the Bark River Lions in their effort to make both the Off-Road Rumble and the community better for years to come.

It is their biggest fundraiser of the year by far.

Notable racing pros who have participated in years past include Multiple Pro-4 Champion CJ Greaves and his father Johnny Greaves, Arie Luyendyk, Evan Evans and even Jimmie Johnson.

When asked what they are most looking forward to regarding the race, Palmgren and Kwarciany have much to say.

“The volunteers are amazing, the spectators always have a smile on their faces and the partners and racers live for this event,” said Palmgren. “It’s fun to see people coming back over and over and spending time with friends and family.”

Kwarciany says, “As an organizer, I look forward to showcasing what we do with the Lions Club and spending time with fellow Lions members.”

He also loves the environment. “I truly look forward to an event and atmosphere that defines what o f-road racing is,” he said. “These are pure race fans who follow local drivers and providing a venue for them to come out and do that with their families is really magical.” •

24 | JUNE • 2024 • MICHIGAN SNOWMOBILER + ORV

22_JUNE_MSORV_Bark River Off Road Rumble.indd 24

CHAMP OFFROAD

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salute our veterans & first reponder

HEROES ON THE DUNES A Day to Give Back F

or the past ten years, a group of individuals have selflessl given hundreds of hours of their time – unpaid – to plan an event at the Silver Lake Dunes like no other.

Sponsors have donated thousands BY KIM KISNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER of dollars. Private and public businesses and the community have offered their services, products, materials, support, and energy. They do it with compassion, integrity, and commitment. Their mission is clear, and it can be boiled down to three simple words: To give back.

This is Heroes on the Dunes.

Hosted by The Heroes Operation, the event is meant to honor and show appreciation to Veterans and first esponders by fulfilling P esident Lincoln’s promise: “To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan.”

On the third weekend of July for two days, heroes and their families gather in Mears, Michigan to ultimately experience adventure, thrills, laughter, joy, fellowship, and

great food at Silver Lake State Park and Val-du-Lakes Bar & Grill.

“The idea is to get the heroes and their families out for an exhilarating day on the dunes and put stress and everyday battles aside. We want everyone to enjoy and relax – with a healthy dose of adrenaline!” said Scott Benedict, Director of The Heroes Operation.

Benedict has been involved in the event for nine of the ten years it has been running, and his passion and energy is inspiring – even palpable.

“I got hooked on riding at Silver Lake in 2005, he said. “I love everything about it, and this event is my day each year to share my happy place with the men and women who put their lives on the line for my freedom or my protection every day.

This day is the one day of the year I look forward to the most. It’s my Christmas.”

THE HISTORY In 2015, duners Shannon Eifert and

Scott Dion decided they wanted to give back in this way and connected with Operation Injured Soldier out of South Lyon.

The first yea , the event hosted 25 heroes - disabled Veterans. Year two saw 50 heroes.

Along the way, to further support Heroes on the Dunes, Veteran, Anthony Munafo, and civilians Scott Dion and Janet Dodge came together and started the Heroes Operation as a 501c3 organization, working with Operation Injured Soldier to do so. As such, The Heroes Operations was classified as an educationa 501c3 with the purpose of shedding more light on PTSD. The event was opened up to all veterans and firs responders, made a break from OIS and is now on its own.

Heroes on the Dunes has grown exponentially each year since. It has become the largest event at Silver Lake. Last year was the biggest yet, with 150 heroes, 500 family members, and 207 volunteers. continued on page 28

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THE EVENT The weekend kicks off on Friday with a Heroes Charity Golf Outing at Benona Shores Golf Course.

“We created the golf outing as a fun way to raise money and it’s grown from there,” said Benedict.

Following the golf outing will be a car show, which is new for 2024. “Heroes and their families will be able to get an up-close look at the vehicles and meet the drivers they will be riding with the following day, which I think will be fun,” said Benedict.

Friday night brings a free concert and Freedom Friday Fireworks.

“For the last few years, musician and Michigander Kyle Jennings donated his time to perform,” said Benedict. This year’s musical talent is yet to be announced.

Saturday is the main event – it is Dune Day. Says Benedict, “All the heroes and their family members meet at Val-du-Lakes and get into a myriad of 4x4 pickups, jeeps, side-by-sides and do a Parade lap through town.

The residents and townfolk line the streets to show their respect and appreciation – it’s really beautiful.”

This is followed by an opening ceremony and flag raisin in the ORV area of Silver Lake, and then a flight show pu on by the Hooligan Flight Team featuring WWII Bombers.

Heroes then take a parade lap around the dunes and are then joined by their families to take part in a full day of rides and a variety of sand toys.

The day ends with a catered dinner, raffles an auction and another free concert.

THE TEAM Heroes on the Dunes is planned by a board of directors, all of whom volunteer many hours each year.

President, Anthony Munafo is referred to as the Air Boss by the team because – as Benedict says – “he is in continued on page 30

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salute our veterans & first reponder

continued from page 28

charge of the ship.” Munafo served five years in the Navy and now run his own granite business.

Scott Dion is the Vice President and he runs a local business in Silver Lake.

Janet Dodge is the Board’s Secretary. She’s a lifelong resident of Oceana County and a local real estate business owner.

Director, Jeff DeVito is a USPS technician in security and facility maintenance The two other Directors are Anna Bateson, who works on securing grants for the organization, and Scott Benedict, who manages much of the set-up and tear down of the event and owns third-generation painting business in Ionia County.

THE SUPPORT The Heroes on the Dunes event costs approximately $70k, all of which

comes from sponsors, donations, shirt sales, and the auction and raffle The main sponsors include Silverback Offroad, Schmidt Community Fund, Hooligan’s Flight Team, Val-Du Lakes, and Peterson Farms.

Benedict points to the many businesses and individuals that he says go above and beyond, saying, “The DNR is a great supporter of the event and gives us so much leeway within the park rules. The Silver Lake Recreation Association (SLRA) is another supporter, they come Friday morning and drag my truck and trailer out on the dunes with their big tractor. They then come back Saturday night and help me drag it out. Another big supporter is Ken Morgan and Deer Road Storage, who collected $2,500 in gas cards for the Heroes last year. Another big sponsor is Ted of Silver Lake Wave Club Water Sports. They give out

guided pontoon ride on Silver Lake on Sunday to all the Heroes.”

Benedict says there are other sponsors as well, and without them the event wouldn’t happen.

THE WHY Benedict says the event is a way to give back, and also to spread awareness of PTSD and suicide prevention by connecting people.

It’s clear that it means so much to him personally. He says, “These heroes and their families have sacrificed so much over their careers, and it warms my heart that we can help them for this one day.

Our team and our army of volunteers make these heroes forget about their struggles and let them enjoy a day with their families with little to no cost to them. For the nine years I have been involved with this event, the feeling has not faded. If anything it gets stronger every year.

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In addition to the car show, the 2024 event will include a new “Mini Heroes” activation at Val-Du Lakes that will include lots of games and activities for the kids.

In closing, Benedict sums everything up by saying, “The months of planning, the hours of set up, and the money spent is a lot, but it all goes away the second

the first shuttle truck arrives on th dunes. Then when we start giving rides and we have families hooting and hollering, screaming “This is the best ride ever!” – that’s a feeling that words cannot describe. It’s priceless.”

The event grows every year, and the team is always looking for sponsors and volunteers. If

you have a desire to give back and become one of our sponsors, please reach out to scottieb@ theheroesoperation.org.

It takes a lot of heart to give back to those who have sacrificed so much. If you would like to become a volunteer or register as a Hero, you can do so at theheroesoperation.org. •

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