The event is designed not to frighten, but to educate, entertain.
Bay City State Recreation Area Halloween Event Is (Sat) October 17
Takes the Scare Out of a Scary Holiday
October 9, 2009
By: MyBayCity Staff
Bay City State Recreation Area's 16th annual Mother Nature's
Halloween Trail, featuring a guided walk along a pumpkin-lighted forest
trail and a chance to encounter some of nature's most misunderstood
critters, will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, from 4 to 9:30 p.m.
Park interpreters will be assisted by drama students from St. Charles
and Hemlock High Schools, who will portray bats, snakes, wolves, coyotes
and other animals that humans often fear and dislike. The actors, led by
Teacher-Director Dillon Moorehead, will dramatize how these creatures
earned their frightening reputation, why they have been misunderstood
and how their existence actually benefits humans and the environment.
"The trail is really fun for younger, elementary-aged children and also
the young at heart. Our goal is to dispel some of the myths and stories
that make life difficult for these undervalued wildlife populations,"
said Department of Natural Resources Park Interpreter Valerie Blaschka.
"Children love the animals actors. Many of last year's visitors had
wonderful comments about the actors' performance and how nice it was
to have a Halloween event that wasn't meant to be scary."
The event is designed not to frighten, but to educate and entertain
children and their families. Halloween treats donated by area merchants
and free refreshments will be provided. Children are encouraged to wear
their Halloween costumes.
There is no cost for this event; however, a state park motor vehicle
permit is required for all vehicles entering the park. Permits are $6
for the day or $24 for an annual permit, which is valid at any state
park. For more information, contact the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center,
located within Bay City State Recreation Area, at 989-667-0717.
For a listing of other events taking place at Michigan state parks and
recreation areas, visit www.michigan.gov/dnrcalendar.
The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation,
protection, management, accessible use and enjoyment of the State's
natural resources for current and future generations.