Podcasts about michigan state parks

LFTR Episode 71 - We're nearing the end of our Summer of Song and wondering What's Next? We discuss our week in 3 different Michigan State Parks including beach days and family bike rides.Highlights include:* An interesting bike path detour in Traverse City* A campsite by a rocky beach with fossils in Petoskey* Beach Party in Holland* Hiking through woods and over sand dunes in Warren Dunes* We can't really know what's next… and that's probably good* Biden is stepping aside and Harris feels… hopeful* We're not preppers, but we're prepared (to go survive in the woods)* Have a plan, but plan to change your plan* Stories and morbidityLinks:* Traverse City State Park* Stonehound Brewing* Petoskey State Park* The Backlot Petoskey* Tap 30 Pourhouse* Holland State Park Beach Campground* Warren Dunes State ParkThanks for listening! As always you can find LFTR at http://lettersfromtheroadpod.com, and you can email us at lettersfromtheroadpod@gmail.com.Find LFTR Diaries on the LFTR YouTube channel.Find us on socials @lettersfromtheroadpod!If you feel like kicking us a few bucks because you like what we do you can Become a PenPal and chat with us and others in the PenPals Discord. Get full access to Letters From the Road at lettersfromtheroad.substack.com/subscribe

Sarahbeth Ramsey is an entrepreneur and business owner (The More You Grow® Organization) focusing on empowering entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders to learn and grow through a holistic business model. As a creative, she values innovative problem-solving and believes in focusing on the person first, and business second. In addition to her service-based offerings and online teachings, she also teaches as an Adjunct Instructor at NMC. Her passions are photography and writing, and she serves as a photography ambassador for Michigan State Parks and is a contributing writer for Northern Express. She shares her creative pursuits at sarahbethramsey.com. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, paddle boarding, painting, reading, traveling, and spending time with her two amazing dogs- Ella and Margaux. Connect with SarahbethWebsite: www.moreyougrow.comFacebook: facebook.com/moreyougroworgLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbethramseyInstagram: @moreyougroworgSupport the showThanks for listening! To book a free consultation with Aideen visit www.confidenceinsinging.com.

Navigating career paths can be a daunting challenge. We pour our time and effort into applications, only to be met with rejection after rejection. Many aspiring wildlife professionals can relate to the frustration and self-doubt that arise from these setbacks.In the pursuit of our dreams and career goals, we often find ourselves facing moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. Thoughts of inadequacy and imposter syndrome can quietly seep in, casting doubts on our abilities and leaving us feeling hopeless when we don't get the outcomes we want. But in the face of these challenges, one of the most valuable lessons we can learn is the importance of not giving up. Today on the Fancy Scientist Podcast, I interviewed Nicole Blankertz, park ranger with Michigan State Parks, and alumni of my Successful Wildlife Professional. Nicole didn't expect to become a park ranger, in fact, she was determined to become a wildlife researcher, but she struggled to get positions when the pandemic changed her plans. Nicole's path was far from smooth sailing - it included setbacks and self-doubt that would have caused many to throw in the towel. Nicole graduated in 2020 and had an internship lined up, which got canceled because of COVID. She applied to other jobs but didn't get any. Just rejection after rejection. All of these rejections led to some imposter syndrome and frustration and she knew things had to change. She made a big decision and enrolled in the The Successful Wildlife Professional program so that we could work together to get her interviews.  Through learning from the program and personal mentoring from me, we improved Nicole's job application and things changed dramatically. We focused only on her job application without adding a single new experience, skill, certification, etc. We just emphasized and demonstrated the experience she already had. Nicole also decided to apply for some jobs outside of the realm of wildlife research. The outcome of all of this? A life-changing position with the parks department, proving that a strategy and persistent mindset can unlock unexpected possibilities.In this episode, we talk about what it's like to work as a park ranger and how Nicole is keeping the possibility of working in wildlife research again open. So, if you're wrestling with imposter syndrome or feel like giving up, this episode is for you! Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and armed with the tools to conquer your own self-doubt. When you believe in yourself, refuse to give up, and take action, there's no limit to what you can achieve. Specifically, we discussed:How to revamp your job application and enhance your chances of getting hiredThe unwavering importance of persistence in the face of rejectionThe significance of non-wildlife jobs and transferable skills in attaining your dream wildlife careerWhat it's like to work as a park ranger and in the park serviceKey considerations to understand when contemplating a career changeAnd much more, including invaluable GREEN FLAGS to guide you in pursuing your dream career in wildlife biology!I'm Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of nearly 20 yrs with 20+ peer-reviewed scientific publications, author of the book Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It's Like and What You Need to Know (https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/) and founder of Fancy Scientist. My channel and the Fancy Scientist LLC is dedicated to connecting people to science and nature, breaking stereotypes of, and empowering scientists. I help aspiring and struggling wildlife biologists get the right training so they can get jobs, live out their life's purpose and make a difference in this world.Sign up for my next free job training: https://stephanieschuttler.com/trainingwaitlist/ Get a free chapter of my book “Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It's Like and What You Need to Know” to see how I can help you in your career: https://stephanieschuttler.com/getting-a-job-in-wildlife-biology-book/ Want to learn about cool animals, conservation, and get tips about careers in wildlife biology, science, and more? Subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/StephanieSchuttler and join my email list: https://stephanieschuttler.com/ I'd love to meet you. Connect with me on social media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/pins/Join the “Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology” Facebook group to connect with other aspiring wildlife biologists, post your questions and get free advice: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyListen to the Fancy Scientist Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fancy-scientist-material-girl-living-in-sustainable/id1509587394 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29swiuHG4TWKbS9gRZrORW

How ready is Bay County for climate change, an energy storage manufacturer is raising $50 million to scale up production in Clare County, and a draft plan for Michigan state parks needs feedback.

Fall ziplining along Lake Michigan. Yurt camping. September boating. Equestrian shoreline riding. These are just a few of the autumn and early-winter activities shared by Maia Turek, who returns to the show to talk all things state parks and the many ways we can explore the Great Lakes State over the next several months. Maia, who works for the parks and recreation division of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, has lots of updates for us. After gushing over the gorgeous September weather we've been experiencing — Heather shares a stand-up paddling adventure she recently had with two friends while Maia talks about why boating this time of year with her family is so great — they talk about a number of events and activities taking place at state parks through the end of the year. (Heather also shares save-the-date info on the 5th annual Michigan Runner Girl Winter Weekend Getaway in January 2023!) They also share some laughs about leaping salmon and their impressive "hero's journey" come fall. Covered during this episode: - Fall ziplining along Lake Michigan, at Muskegon State Park - Yurt camping at state parks - The DNR's new site and the Things to Do section that is Maia's "go-to" resource. - Renting boat slips through the state parks reservation system — Maia is especially excited about this (and there's discounted rates for this in September!) - It's the 75th year of the state's waterways program and Maia shares more about safe harborage and how that works all around the state's waterways. - The first-ever equestrian shoreline ride is taking place in November at Silver Lake State Park - Fall bird migration news - Michigan Trails Week, which is this week, Sept. 18-24  - MRG Winter Weekend Getaway Jan. 20-22, 2023 - Michigan state parks photo ambassador program - These Goods 4 Good for Michigan - Cambridge Junction State Park in the Irish Hills of Michigan

This podcast covers some recent RV trips and expenses, how Starlink satellite internet service worked when traveling to various Michigan State Parks, and the latest RV trends. 

In this episode of the Michigan DNR's Wildtalk Podcast, you'll find out what work is happening for wildlife in Michigan's Northern Lower Peninsula Region, talk winter activities at Michigan State Parks with Maia Turek, and hear listener questions answered in the mailbag segment. The episode wraps up with a discussion about winter bird watching activities and animal track identification in the snow. Questions or comments about the show? Contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453 (WILD). You can also email dnr-wildlife@michigan.gov, and even send your question as a sound file that you record on your phone to be played on the air!Episode Hosts: Hannah Schauer and Rachel LeightnerProducer: Eric HilliardAround the State Guest: Rex AinsleMain Interview Guest(s): Maia TurekWildlife Spotlight LinksBald EagleAround the State LinksMichigan.gov/Wildlife Michigan.gov/ElkManistee River State Game Area MapDucks UnlimitedInterview LinksMichigan.gov/WinterFunMichigan.gov/Fishingmidnrreservations.comMichigan.gov/StateParksMailbag LinksMichigan.gov/MiHUNTMichigan.gov/RecSearchMichigan.gov/DNRDigestsNuisance Bear InformationMichigan.gov/DeerWildlife is Everywhere LinksAll About BirdsProject Feeder Watch

Lori takes listeners on a recap of her December 2019  trip to the Muskegon area where she visited Hoffmaster and Muskegon State Parks. This short episode gives you a first hand account of hiking forested dunes and walking along Lake Michigan on a late December day. Connect with Lori:Instagram: @thehikepodcastTwitter: @thehikepodcastBlog: thehikepodcast.wordpress.comFacebook: @thehikepodcastEmail: hikepodcast@gmail.com Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/thehikepodcast)

Lori explores the Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park in Sanilac County, Michigan8251 Germania RoadCass City MI, 48726The main feature of the park is a 1,000-square-foot sandstone outcrop with around 100 petroglyphs on it. The largest grouping of such carvings in Michigan, they were likely carved between 400 and 1,400 years ago. They were discovered by the area's settlers after much of the Thumb region was burned by a massive forest fire in 1881. Among the depictions of swirls, lines, handprints, and living beings are:Ebmodaakowet, the archer who shoots knowledge into the future;Migizi Inini, the Eagle Man, who looks to the east–the direction of the new day–and flies over to ensure people are following traditions and teachings;Mishibizhew, the water panther, who protects the waters of the Great Lakes. (source: Wikipedia)Visit the blog to read the trip report. This hike can be found in the book  "Hiking Michigan"Resources:Learn more about the Sanilac Petroglyphs herePhotos and more info Connect with Lori:Instagram: @thehikepodcastTwitter: @thehikepodcastBlog: thehikepodcast.wordpress.comFacebook: @thehikepodcastEmail: hikepodcast@gmail.com Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/thehikepodcast)

Today we celebrate an American female botanist who collected the flora of the great state of Maine. We'll also learn about a Michigan conservationist who is remembered as the First Lady of Michigan State Parks and Natural Areas. We’ll remember Nathaniel Hawthorne on the anniversary of his death today - and the quirky little story he wrote about a mad scientist and his experiment involving geraniums. We hear an excerpt about botanically-inspired girl’s names. We Grow That Garden Library™ with a book about Organic Gardening And then we’ll wrap things up with the wonderful Nora Ephron and one of her best-loved movie quotes.   Subscribe Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart To listen to the show while you're at home, just ask Alexa or Google to “Play the latest episode of The Daily Gardener Podcast.” And she will. It's just that easy.   The Daily Gardener Friday Newsletter Sign up for the FREE Friday Newsletter featuring: A personal update from me Garden-related items for your calendar The Grow That Garden Library™ featured books for the week Gardener gift ideas Garden-inspired recipes Exclusive updates regarding the show Plus, each week, one lucky subscriber wins a book from the Grow That Garden Library™ bookshelf.   Gardener Greetings Send your garden pics, stories, birthday wishes, and so forth to Jennifer@theDailyGardener.org   Curated News Then and now: 7 ways garden design has evolved over the last 40 years | House Beautiful | Olivia Heath   Facebook Group If you'd like to check out my curated news articles and original blog posts for yourself, you're in luck. I share all of it with the Listener Community in the Free Facebook Group - The Daily Gardener Community. So, there’s no need to take notes or search for links. The next time you're on Facebook, search for Daily Gardener Community, where you’d search for a friend... and request to join. I'd love to meet you in the group.   Important Events May 19, 1834 Today is the birthday of the daring self-taught American botanist Catherine Furbish. Kate is remembered for her life-long work collecting, classifying, and illustrating the flora of the great state of Maine. Kate spent six decades crisscrossing her home state. Her delicate, beautiful, and simple botanical art charms gardeners still today. Kate grew up in an upper-middle-class home. She attended private school and studied drawing as a child. By the time she was thirty, she had combined her love for flowers and drawing and embarked on a goal of collecting, cataloging, and drawing all the native flora of Maine. During Kate’s lifetime, Maine was still a rugged and wild place. Her amateur eagerness to explore the forests and wildernesses of Maine put her in direct contrast to the women of her time. Her exemplary fieldwork drew respect from her male counterparts - many of whom worked at the major Universities or scientific centers across the country. In 1881, after getting a plant named for her, Kate wrote to Sereno Watson at Harvard to acknowledge the honor, saying, “Were it not for the fact that I can find no plants named for a female botanist in your manual, I should object to “Pedicularis Furbishae”... But as a new species is rarely found in New England and few plants are named for women, it pleases me.” In 1895, Kate helped found the Josselyn Botanical Society of Maine. In 1925, her friend “Joss” (Louise Coborn) described Kate as a botanist in her sixties: “I can see her as I saw her then — a little woman with uplifted head already turned gray, in animated talk, or with bowed face using her keen eyes along a forest trail, or up a mountain path. She had the sort of eyes that were made for seeing, and nothing escaped the swift circle of her glance. Her feet were as untiring as her eyes, and she could out-last many a younger woman on a cliff-side climb or river-bank scramble.” On September 16, 1978, the New Castle News out of New Castle, PA, shared an article written by Mike Finsilber with a headline that read: Exhibit Depicts Female Scientists. Here’s an excerpt: "When curator Deborah Warner suggested to her superiors at the Smithsonian Institution that she put together an exhibit documenting the accomplishments of American women in science in the 19th century, her superiors were skeptical. Women scientists in the 19th century? Would there be enough of them to fill an exhibit? They doubted it. Ms. Warner didn’t. Yesterday her display opened in the Museum of History and Technology, telling of, among others: Kate Furbish, the botanist who discovered the now-famous Furbish Lousewort. It is now famous because it is endangered and for a time threatened to block construction of the Lincoln-Dickey Dam in Maine."   May 19, 1898  Today is the birthday of the woman known as the First Lady of Michigan State Parks and Natural Areas and the “Mother” of Michigan State Parks system, Emma Genevieve Gillette, who was born in Lansing. Genevieve learned to love nature from her dad. He would take her into the woods in the spring to see arbutus flowering and the brook running. Genevieve recounted how he would kneel down by the brook and ask, “Can you hear what it is saying? It’s talking to us.” In 1920, Genevieve was the only woman to be part of the very first landscape architecture class to graduate from the Michigan Agricultural College. She ended up going to work for the great Landscape Architect Jens Jensen, known as the “Dean of Landscape Architects,” and would become a trusted mentor and lifelong friend to Genevieve. In terms of a role model, Jens was perfect for Genevieve; he was an early pioneer in the conservation movement, used art as activism, and was generally ahead of his time. Jens once famously said, “Trees are much like human beings and enjoy each other's company. Only a few love to be alone.” A contemporary of Frank Lloyd Wright, Jens was also a maker of public parks and spaces. Genevieve later said Jens “pestered her” to start a state park system in Michigan. Genevieve befriended the Michigan Parks Chief Peter J. Hoffmaster, who was one of her old college classmates. Her sincere alliances with state officials helped her garner support to serve as the president of the Michigan Park Association. Genevieve boosted public support and funding for more than 200,000 acres of Michigan’s state and national parks during her tenure, including the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. In the mid-1960s, Genevieve was asked to serve on President Lyndon Johnson’s Committee on Recreation and Natural Beauty. It was the honor of her career.   May 19, 1864  Today is the anniversary of the death of the American novelist and short-story writer Nathaniel Hawthorne. In 1843, Nathaniel wrote a crazy short story about a mad scientist who became obsessed with removing his wife, Georgiana’s birthmark. He decides to repurpose a remedy he created to remove blotches from the leaves of his geraniums. In the end, as his wife drinks the mixture, her birthmark does indeed fade away but so does her life force, and she dies a perfect, unblemished woman.   Unearthed Words Like their mother, Honor Sparrow, dead now for twenty-some years- gone on the very day her youngest daughter, Impatiens, arrived - the sisters had all green thumbs. It was ordained, really. They had each been named after a botanical, mostly flowers, and as their mother kept producing girls, the names became slightly ridiculous. But Honor was a keen gardener and in darkest winter, calling her daughter's names reminded her that spring would come again. For months after her death, the older girls hated their names and all they recalled for them. By the time they founded the Sparrow Sisters Nursery, though, each thoroughly embraced their names as the sign they were. ― Ellen Herrick, American publishing executive and author, The Sparrow Sisters   Grow That Garden Library Organic Gardening for Everyone by Cali Kim This book came out in 2019, and the subtitle is Homegrown Vegetables Made Easy - No Experience Required! In this book, Kim shows you just how easy it is to grow healthy vegetables at home - something she started doing in 2012. At the time, Kim approached her desire to garden in a very unique and compelling way: she crowdsourced it! After launching a YouTube channel under the name "CaliKim" (a nod to her California residency) and asking for help from everyday gardeners, Kim started gardening. When questions or problems popped up, Kim found support, advice, information, and connection from her viewers and subscribers. Gradually, she learned to garden, and her garden managed to survive and thrive even under the hot, harsh conditions of the California climate. Kim’s book is her way of giving back the gardening wisdom she’s accumulated. Now, almost a decade later, Kim answers more garden questions than she asks, and she’s here to help grow more gardeners through her lovely book. With Kim’s step-by-step encouragement, you’ll realize that anyone can garden and overcome any hesitations that gardening is too hard, intimidating, or time-consuming. With a busy family of her own, she shares her own inspirational story of balancing the garden's demands alongside the demands of a modern, busy California family. Kim offers friendly and practical advice that celebrates the joy of gardening. She offers her best advice on her passion for organic vegetable gardening.   This book is 160 pages of garden encouragement, wisdom, and enthusiasm from a California mom who became a passionate modern organic gardener over the past decade. You can get a copy of Organic Gardening for Everyone by Cali Kim  and support the show using the Amazon Link in today's Show Notes for around $5   Today’s Botanic Spark Reviving the little botanic spark in your heart May 19, 1941 Today is the birthday of the New York director and screenwriter Nora Ephron. Nora was the writer of many favorite movies: When Harry Met Sally (1989), Sleepless in Seattle (1993), and You've Got Mail (1998). In You’ve Got Mail, Nora wrote one of the most iconic lines about daisies in a scene between the two main characters: Kathleen and Joe. In the movie, Kathleen Kelly looks at the vase of daisies that Joe sets on the table beside her, and she says, I love daisies. And then, Joe Fox replies: You told me. Kathleen ignores the clue in Joe’s remark. Now, had she noticed what he just said, she’d realize that he purposefully bought her the daisies because he remembered their very first meeting at her bookstore. During his visit with Annabelle and Matthew, she tells the kids about her handkerchief. (Since they didn’t know what a handkerchief was!) Kathleen tells the kids, “My mother embroidered this for me - [with] my initials and a daisy because daisies are my favorite flower.” But Kathleen misses Joe’s comment because he had just set the flowers on the table beside her. At that moment, Kathleen gets distracted by the daisies and caught up in the beauty of the flowers. She offhandedly remarks, “They’re so friendly. Don’t you think daisies are the friendliest flower?” At this comment, Joe Fox looks to the side (because at this point he realizes she’s missed the meaning of his earlier comment), and then he simply answers her with, “I do.”   Thanks for listening to The Daily Gardener. And remember: "For a happy, healthy life, garden every day."

Hike presents the Michigan Explorer series.  Follow Lori as she explores the Michigan State Parks, Recreation Areas and public lands.  She'll share history, favorite trails and local gems along the way. Coming May 2021. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/thehikepodcast)

Welcome to an Al Fresco Friday edition of your Daily Detroit! Very socially distanced and outdoors, but for the first time in weeks, Jer and Sven are in the same place on the air. On today's show: Three key things to know as Detroit reopens, from barbershops to street closures for socially distant dining to DDOT service expanding. The Macomb County prosecutor's office is not going to press charges against an Amazon delivery driver that was arrested this week. Amazon also weighs in and says they would pay for the driver's legal defense. Quicken Loans may go public Oakland County plans to let the Coronavirus emergency declaration expire To Go Booze makes progress in the Michigan legislature Michigan State Parks get a new glamping option Thanks to our newest members on Patreon. Independent funding keeps independent media independent. Join us at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit  

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer talked with WWJ's Roberta Jasina and Tom Jordan about many things today including a lawsuit filed by Congressman Paul Mitchell, threats, the new normal and handling crowds in state parks. 

A peaceful paddle down a Michigan river during the winter, chasing waterfalls in the lower peninsula (have you been to Ocqueoc Falls near Rogers City yet?), a lantern-lit snowshoe along a quiet, snow-covered path in the U.P.—these are just a few of the adventures mentioned during Heather’s regular check-in with Maia Turek of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Maia, as listeners know, knows just about everything there is to know about Michigan’s beautiful state parks and the many activities taking place year-round. Plus, she’s a whole lot of fun and makes everyone laugh, always. Also joining the conversation is the one-and-only Pam Carrigan, MRG’s event coordinator who serves as co-host of the upcoming Michigan Runner Girl Winter Weekend Getaway this Feb. 14-16 at the DNR’s Ralph A. MacMullen Conference Center near Roscommon Higgins Lake. The friends talk about this upcoming all-women’s retreat – there’s still a few spots available and we’d love to have you join us this Valentine’s Day weekend! Yes, there will be (optional) running, but this weekend truly is about embracing the outdoors through snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and bonfires (and chocolate!). We’ll also have yoga, plenty of downtime, great good and drink, and special speakers. (Learn more and get signed up here: https://michiganrunnergirl.com/registration-open-for-3rd-annual-mrg-winter-weekend-getaway/ ) Maia also shares fun state park news and happenings, including information about the possibility of enjoying the experience of “tiny home” lodging at a state park. You’re sure to be inspired to start planning your state park adventures while listening to this episode. (Summer campground reservations are open!) The friends also talk about their latest workout goals and accomplishments, as well as upcoming races they’re looking forward to – you’ll also hear how Maia believes she’s that annoying runner in races who says things to others that she maybe shouldn’t (Pam and Heather don’t believe it). All three women are taking on a Bayshore race this spring.

Lori takes listeners on a recap of her recent trip to the Muskegon area where she visited Hoffmaster and Muskegon State Parks. This short episode gives you a first hand account of hiking forested dunes and walking along Lake Michigan on a late December day. Connect with Lori:Instagram: @thehikepodcast, @lori_the_explorerTwitter: @thehikepodcastBlog: thehikepodcast.wordpress.comFacebook: @thehikepodcastEmail: hikepodcast@gmail.com Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/thehikepodcast)

In tonight's episode of the Geocaching Podcast: We discuss the hugely popular Michigan State Park Geotour. We talk with one of it's creators about what it took to get this massive 100 cache Geotour off the ground.

The EPA is seeking input on Great Lakes restoration. Michigan's state park system turns 100.

And we're back from the summer holiday week... and right into a rumble among Royal Oak restaurants in regard to parking and the future of the city. We also dive into some recent closings (Fist of Curry) and openings (Detroit Shipping Company).  Also, should rangers at Michigan State Parks carry guns? In other state park news - specifically Belle Isle - The Grand Prix is going to present their proposal to bring the race back to the the island next year. Olympia Development, residents and the city are tussling over the possibility of a historic district near the new Little Caesars Arena. Detroit's beloved Better Made Chips is going to expand to many more states around the nation. The city of Detroit says that more than 8,000 young people from age 14 to 24 will get six weeks of on-the job experiences and job training. Woodward Avenue is getting national love on the new PBS series “10 Streets That Changed America.” And of course, Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk Detroit City FC. His tip? You're going to want to see these international friendlies coming up in the next few weeks.  Love the show? Find us wherever you download your favorite podcasts.  

Maia Turek, a.k.a. the Michigan state parks guru, is back on the Michigan Runner Girl Show, this time to talk about ways we can enjoy our 103 state parks all winter long. From lantern-lit snowshoe excursions and "owl prowls," to DIY events like make your own snowshoes and special hiking and cross country skiing opportunities at cool spots (even a lighthouse!), there are lots of ways to explore outdoors, embrace the snow and cold, and feel strong and happy throughout the season. Indoor events throughout Michigan also are mentioned. Maia, who is the statewide recreation programmer for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, also shares news of awesome merchandise partnerships the DNR now has with two Michigan-based companies (and what that means for state park visitors like us). Heather and Maia also talk about the #OptOutside movement this coming Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. For a second year, Michigan State Parks are following the lead of outdoor company REI in embracing this hashtag—and they're encouraging us to do the same. This Friday, Nov. 24, choose to #OptOutside with free admission to all Michigan State Parks.   Here's more about #OptOutside: Residents and visitors are encouraged to put away leftovers and #OptOutside as part of their day-after-Thanksgiving traditions. To encourage folks to tap into Michigan's great outdoors and gather with friends and family, on Friday, Nov. 24, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will waive the regular Recreation Passport entry fee that enables vehicle access to Michigan state parks, trails and boating access sites. Exploring some of Michigan's best outdoor destinations is a great way to recover from holiday shopping excursions, burn off some of those Thanksgiving calories and enjoy the many benefits of nature. "In Michigan, you’re never more than a half-hour away from a state park, recreation area, state forest campground or state trail," said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. "#OptOutside is an invitation to residents and those traveling to spend time outside during the holiday weekend and help continue or build new Thanksgiving traditions. The DNR hopes the free entry opportunity will encourage residents and visitors to explore new places and experience the outdoors' many physical, mental and social benefits." There are plenty of ideas to incorporate into popular day-after-Thanksgiving traditions, including opportunities to: Find a new mile to hike or run on one of more than 12,500 miles of state-designated trails. Cast a line in a state park and put fishing on your Friday festivities menu. Try mountain biking. Jump on the Iron Belle Trail - the longest designated state trail in the nation - and crisscross more than half of Michigan’s counties along both hiking and biking routes. Find a new hunting spot by exploring one of Michigan's vast recreation areas. Enjoy the peace and quiet of camping in the off-season. Download a geocaching app and take part in an outdoor treasure hunting game that utilizes GPS-enabled devices. Seek out historical markers and learn a little bit more about Michigan’s backstory. Make a bird-watching scavenger hunt for kids and start a list of the birds you spot. "The holidays can get hectic with added obligations, no matter how happy or anticipated they may be," said Olson. "Our #OptOutside promotion is an opportunity for folks to take a deep breath of fresh air, share an experience with your favorite people and make some great holiday memories." Although the Recreation Passport vehicle entry fee into 103 Michigan state parks, 138 state forest campgrounds and parking for hundreds of miles of trails and fee-based boat launches is waived Nov. 24, camping and other permit and license fees still apply. Interested in learning more about things to do and places to visit? Visit the DNR website at michigan.gov/dnr to learn more about fishing, hunting, forest land, state parks and much more. To search for a list of Michigan state parks, rustic state forest campgrounds, state-designated trails and associated activities and amenities, visit www.michigan.gov/recsearch. Interested in the Recreation Passport and how it helps Michigan state parks, trails and waterways? Visit www.michigan.gov/RecreationPassport. The #OptOutside movement was started by outdoor recreation cooperative REI Inc. in 2015 to encourage people to spend time outdoors on Black Friday. For the third year in a row, the Michigan DNR has encouraged people to utilize the outdoors as part of their Thanksgiving weekend celebrations.

On this episode, we'll meet the Keystone VHF Radio Club of York, PA. Since 1955, they have fostered fun and fellowship. We also travel with Laura, WZ8C and Jack, W8KEC during a weekend activation for the Michigan State Parks on the Air. Plus, the expression "Live By The Numbers, Die By The Numbers" is explained. All of this and more on this edition of 100 Watts and a Wire.

Many park agencies face budget struggles. Michigan State Parks faced the issues head-on by exploring new ways to add value to what parks offer. Ron Olson, Chief of Michigan State Parks, joins the Park Leaders Show to explain the innovative ideas Michigan explored and implemented to survive budget cuts and offer more to park visitors.  In this episode, Mr. Olson will explain the programs and services Michigan State Parks offered to guests to enhance recreational opportunities and increase funding.  Here is an article from 2009 that outlines some of the challenges Michigan State Parks faced when Ron Olson become Chief.