Mackinac Is Pure Maine and California Rolled Into One

by Barbara Fornasiero
(Detroit, Michigan)

On July 2, my husband and I sat on the back porch of the Mackinac Public Library in white Adirondack chairs taking in the spectacular Island water views. Striking up a conversation with the woman next to me (also lucky enough to be spending a sunny, 80+ degree day in such a breathtaking setting), she mentioned she was visiting Michigan - and staying at the Grand Hotel - as a result of seeing the Pure Michigan ads in her home state of Pennsylvania. Plus, she was there with husband, children and grandchildren in tow. That's a lot of potential fudge purchases! Not to mention more than a few nickels that were spent at the Grand Hotel and other Island hot spots.

After our stop at the library, we headed to lunch at the Iroquois Hotel. Yes folks, the address might say Mackinac Island but the feel is pure California and Maine rolled into one. With craggy rocks, a marina and endless blue on the waterfront menu, we had to pinch ourselves that we were really in Michigan - Pure Michigan. Following one of the most delightful al fresco lunches ever (yep, it even beats Santa Monica's famed Shutters on the Beach) we headed back to the main street where a couple on bikes asked if the Hotel was open for lunch. We assured them it was and that they were in for a wonderful experience. Turns out,they were from Florida and were spending a week in Northern Michigan. I neglected to ask them about the Pure Michigan ad, but they did mention they had no ties to our state whatsoever, they just selected Michigan for something new. They gushed about their vacation and how pleased they were with their decision. We were too!

Marcia and Kathy's Two Cents: Barbara's blog is terrific and you might want to check it out especially if you have any interest in public relations for your business! Visit: http://detroitprguru.blogspot.com/