The concept—a framed, backlit image—is simple. Yet, Helmscenes become much more than the sum of their parts once plugged in and switched on. Beloved by collectors today as ambiance-creating décor, Helmscenes transport their views to scenes near and far—and serve as physical reminders of the years in the mid-twentieth century when they were produced in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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The word “memoir” is the French word for memory and is a genre of literature where the author writes about his or her memories. Not to be confused with a “autobiography” which is a more historical and factual version of one’s life, from beginning to end.
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When I left West Michigan Tourist Association on August 19, 2004 to launch Promote Michigan, I was taking a leap
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When Cindy Birk was a second grader at Reid Elementary School in Grand Blanc, Michigan, she attended a Young Authors
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For as long as I can remember, reading has been one of my favorite activities – especially on rainy afternoons or while kicking back relaxing on a boat or at the beach. Over the years, I’ve found a fascination for novels with ties of Michigan – of course! As you plan your summer reading list, here are some to consider.
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Michiganders are hardy souls…they’ll climb massive ice formations, sit on frozen lakes in search of fish, craft elaborate outhouses for winter festival races and spend hours standing around outside drinking local beer with likeminded individuals braving the elements.
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Michigan was founded on January 26, 1837 as the 26th state of the United States of America—making this year its 186th Birthday / Anniversary (depending on how you look at it). Here is our annual list of tourism related businesses celebrating BIG years in 2023 (if we have missed any, please email details to travel@promotemichigan.com).
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Christmas at the Holly Hotel was filmed last winter at the historic 1891 Holly Hotel (which sadly was damaged by the third fire in its 132-year history this past summer) by Joel Reisig of JPR Studios. Joel has been making movies since 2008 and has produced over 35 feature films with distribution deals to Universal Studios, Netflix, Showtime, Lifetime, Redbox, Walmart and others (including global reach in various languages).
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The Schuler name is synonymous with hospitality, at least in southern Michigan. Located in Marshall, in the heart of Calhoun County, the iconic Schuler’s Restaurant & Pub (115 S. Eagle Street) has been welcoming hungry and thirsty visitors since first opening the doors in 1909. Recognized as one of the longest-operating restaurants in the state, Schuler’s remains dedicated to maintaining its roots while branching out in new and exciting ways.
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The History Press (a division of Arcadia Publishing) has a longstanding history of producing titles that are “spirited” in nature
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Four out of five Great Lakes (all those touching Michigan) have an official “Circle Tour” route that were each established to encourage travel to the unique small towns and larger urban centers found along the way.
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Michigan’s first state symbol was the state flower, designated as the Apple Blossom in 1897. Since that time, 10 other symbols have been added to the list – from bird to reptile, gem to stone, wildflower to tree. A twelfth symbol is now under consideration in the legislature – Michigan’s official state insect! If members of the House and Senate can agree, the designation would leave Iowa as the only state in the Union without a state bug.
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Each spring, as the days get longer and the temperatures begin to rise, Michiganders head out into the woods to take part in the state’s oldest agricultural activity…tapping maple trees for sap to be turned into mouth-watering maple syrup, candies and other sweet treats.
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