Van Riper State Park in western Marquette County will host a party for Smokey Bear's 70th birthday the afternoon of Saturday, Aug. 9, complete with cake, a parade, and educational programming about bears and fire prevention.
The event will begin at 2 p.m. with a parade through the park featuring Smokey Bear and local fire department staff. After the parade, visitors can take pictures with Smokey and enjoy some birthday cake.
At 4 p.m., an educational "Bear Necessities" program will be held at the campfire circle behind campsite 41, followed by Wildfire 101 with Ranger Knack at 6 p.m.
For more information, contact Van Riper State Park at 906-339-4461.
There is no charge to attend this event, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry to Van Riper State Park.
The Recreation Passport is an easy, affordable way for residents to enjoy and support outdoor recreation opportunities in Michigan. By checking "YES" for the $11 Recreation Passport ($5 for motorcycles) when renewing a license plate through the Secretary of State (by mail, kiosk, online at www.expresssos.com or at branch offices), Michigan motorists get access to state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, non-motorized state trailhead parking and state boat launches. In addition, Recreation Passport holders can experience real savings at businesses and retailers that participate in the Passport Perks discount program.
The Recreation Passport is valid until the next license plate renewal date. Nonresidents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($31 annual; $9 daily) at any state park or recreation area or (annual passes only) through the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore.
Learn more about this creative way of sustaining Michigan's outdoor recreation and natural resources at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For information on Passport Perks shopping discounts or how businesses and retailers can enroll in the program, visit www.michigan.gov/passportperks.
Contact: Melanie Brand, 906-339-4461 or Debbie Munson Badini, 906-226-1352
