Comment by Gov. Mike Huckabee on Michigan Visit

NEWS RELEASE
Comment by Gov. Mike Huckabee on Michigan Visit

Little Rock, AR - Former AR Governor Mike Huckabee made the following comment tonight regarding his previously-scheduled trip to Michigan:

“Thanks to a new law by Congress that went into effect Monday, we were prohibited from using the air transportation that was being provided that made getting there possible. Commercial airline schedules couldn’t get us there until after things were over Friday – and we would have to have left even before they started on Saturday. The new rules are fine if a candidate has unlimited money or its own plane, but for those of us who don't, it has really hampered our ability to get places.

“I was really looking forward to attending the Michigan event this weekend, but unfortunately the realities of my schedule overcame my ability to get there, on time to speak and meet with supporters. I called the chairman of the Michigan Republican Party to express my regret and the rationale for my decision, and I appreciate his understanding of this most unfortunate development. I know that this will be a tremendous event and I wish all participants a successful weekend in what is truly one of the most scenic parts of the country.”

Now comment from Kathy.

I understand why Mike Huckabee is unable to make it to Michigan. Although I feel like a big dork. I was the last person to know this. This is not Mike Huckabee's fault. I think my fellow bloggers and the Huckabee campaign were afraid to tell me. There was also a straw poll that I had no idea about. I definitely voted for Huckabee! Those of you out there who may be upset that Mike is not there, remember, it is not his fault. It is Congresses fault. You go right ahead and vote for Mike. You have until tomorrow. And do it with a big smile on your face!

I am kinda bummed though. I had talked to some of the bloggers about going in together to make a Michigan welcome basket for Mr. and Mrs. Huckabee. After all, Mac Isle is a resort area and not only that but after Mike's 2nd term a room at the Grand Hotel would be named after Mrs. Huckabee. Every first lady, Democrat or Republican, who has been to the Grand has a room named after her. Fortunately for them, they did not pay for any of it. Unfortunately for me, I did. So either Grand employees are getting a nice treat or all candidates are, no one gets a treat, I get the box back, I get my money back, or it gets sent to the Huckabee's in Arkansas. I have no problem with it getting sent to Arkansas, but it doesn't make sense. How would Michigan teas, honey, mugs and stuff make sense if it is being sent to Arkansas?

I know i said I would keep y'all up to date on the event. I just got home and was unable to get to a computer during my time there. My mom, who is visiting from Alaska, was with me and she couldn't go on Grand Hotel property so I wanted to spend time with her too on the island. Keep checking here tonight.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!

Testing the Waters and "Get Organized and Win"!

One vodka and cranberry, two Kahlua and creams later, I just got back from the reception. I was unable to hand out Mike Huckabee cards. But I will find other places to hand them out. Perhaps my next visit to the island.
I did have a chance to test out the waters about reaction to Mike Huckabee. I will get to that in a later post. It is positive though.
I also had time to think about a vintage button I like to wear to Republican events. It dates back to the Ike era. It says "Organize and Win," and an elephant on it. When ya tilt it a little it says "Vote Republican." Well anyways I will get back to that later.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!

Meet Up on the Island!

As many of my regular readers know, I have been talking about the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference, quite often. I am really excited about the conference, in less than one week! I have been excited about attending this since before I even heard about Mike Huckabee. When I heard about Mike Huckabee's campaign back in March I was hoping that he would attend. Last month my dreams came true, he will be attending, along with every '08 presidential candidate.

If you have already signed up, you have probably received a few reception invites in the snail mail. Perhaps you are considering attending these events. If you are let's all go together as Huckabee supporters. We could all meet up on the Grand Hotel porch. I will give my email here. Contact me at gypzychik@yahoo.com and we can talk about what to do. We can also sit together or nearby during the Huckabee/Romney luncheon. We need to show support in numbers.

Again, I want to stress, that if you have not registered, you can do so on the island Sept. 21 starting at noon. If you have registered, but not signed up for the luncheon you can do so when you get on the island. Just purchase the meal tickets at the Grand. Let's do whatever we can to tell people about Mike Huckabee. Remember, all the national media will be there.

Giddy-Up and Go...

...to Mackinac Island! I just love horses!
In my quest to talk about Mike Huckabee coming to Mackinac Island, the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference and Michigan tourism, I thought I would talk abo how to get around on Mackinac Island. There are no cars allowed on Mackinac Island, except for a few emergency and construction vehicles. So the only transportation on Mackinac Island is by foot, bike or horse.
The conference is more like a vacation for Republicans than it is about boring stuffy old political meetings. Yes, there will be meetings. But they are more like workshops than meetings. Most of the time will be spent socializing with friends, new and old alike. Whether that be on the Grand Hotel porch during the Welcome Reception, or one of the meals, or the Chairman's Reception, or any other time you are not at a meeting.
A trip to Mackinac Island would not be complete if you did not go horseback riding and/or took a carriage ride. Either one of these activities can be done with or without a guide. Stable hands will help you choose the horse that's the right size and riding level for you. For more info about horse riding click here. Info on carriage tours and taxi service, click here. There is also a terrific video of the horses and island when you view the horses page. Be sure to take time to view these magnificent animals.

Still Laughing...

...since coming back from my mailbox. Today I went out to my mailbox. I got a letter from Mitt Romney's campaign. I figured this had something to do with the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference. Yup. I have been invited to a reception for Mitt Romney. It will be held at Anne Cottage. Y'all know I don't like Mitt, but since I do know people who like him I thought that I would go just to hang out with them. I would of course wear my Mike Huckabee button. If I want to attend I only need to pay $500. If I want my picture taken with Mitt I need to pay $1,000, oh and it will be $1,000, no pic, $2,000 w/ pic for couples. Umm, no. For real, who would pay $500 just to attend a party for Mitt Romney? Why is it another $500 for a picture?

I can find better things to do on the island, like shop, go horseback riding, take a carriage or bike ride around the island, walk around the Grand Hotel, shop at the Republican tables. Or maybe Mike Huckabee will have some sort of party at one of the local pubs. He could have a cash bar, so he wouldn't have to pay for peoples drinks.I can only wish. But like I said before. He doesn't need to buy my support.

Yeah, I know, my scanner is messed up.

Michigan Politics and Tourism

Since there is only two weeks until the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference I thought I would start talking more about Michigan and Mike Huckabee's chance in Michigan. Since I work in tourism and Michigan has so many great places to see I would also like to spotlight many of the great things to see in Michigan. I will be talking about other Huckabee stuff too.

I may also be giving reruns of some of my former Michigan posts. I would like to get everyone psyched for the upcoming conference. I am really looking forward to this. I am also looking forward to the Rep. Paul Opsommer (R-Dewitt) Reception next Saturday, on Mac Isle, at the Grand Hotel. I will be wearing my Mike Huckabee button with pride and will talk about him to anyone who is willing to listen. This will be perfect timing. People will get to hear about him before they get to meet him on the island.

Perhaps I am too optimistic, but I think Mike does have a chance in Michigan. Another fellow blogger says he thinks Michigan will go to Romney. It looks like that so far. Although once Michiganders get a chance to hear about Mike Huckabee they will like what they hear. Mike Huckabee is down to earth. He truly cares about everyone. He thinks all people deserve a chance to better themselves. If he had been campaigning in Michigan even half as much as Mitt Romney he would already be in the top of the polls here.

Message to Mike Huckabee and/or Huckabee campaign:

I want to take time to speak to anyone in the Huckabee campaign who may be reading this. I want to seriously send out my apologies for anything I have said. After yesterday's blogger conference call I realized that I was right the first time. Mike Huckabee is the one to support.

Also, I hate to sound like a nag, but I really want to help volunteer when Mike is on the island. For the past few weeks Mitt Romney has been asking people to volunteer for the island, but I have not heard from the huckabee campaign. I have let the Huckabee campaign know that I am willing to help out. I hope I have not ruined my chances. If I have been forgiven, please let me know what I can do. Please don't give up on Michigan and only halfass Michigan. Mike Huckabee does have a chance here.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!

Reception Invite/Chance to talk about Huckabee on the Island one week early

This is not the original story I was planning on talking about when I said I had a Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference post in the works.
Today I checked my snail mail from yesterday. In the mail I got an invitation to a reception for Representative Paul E. Opsommer of the 93rd District. I admit I had to do a Yahoo search on who he is. He is the Republican Representative from DeWitt, Michigan. Click on his name to find out about him.
The reception will take place at the Cupola Bar at the Grand Hotel on Saturday Sept. 15. The bar is at the very top of the Grand. This is an invitation only party, so I don't want to give too many details. I don't want to be the cause of party crashers.
I am not sure who all will be there, since this is just a week before the conference. I am not sure why I was even invited. All I know is whoever I talk to I will tell them about Mike Huckabee and let them know that Mike will be at the conference. Meal tickets can be purchased the same day as the conference, so there will still be time for anyone at the reception to buy tickets to his luncheon.
Coming up, I will get to be y'alls Barbie. I will dress my dress-form with a few outfits and let you, the dear readers choose what I should wear.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!

PS, Ya may have noticed my header is a little different, and better. I have to give credit to Kevin Tracy for that. Please go to his blog and tell him what a terrific job he did!

Dress Codes

As part of talking about the Grand Hotel, where the Mackinac Leadership Conference will be held, I thought I would share this dress code info for the Grand Hotel and dining room.

Evening Attire
The Grand Hotel experience includes dressing for dinner. Evening wear is required in all areas of the hotel: coat and tie for gentlemen, and dresses or pantsuits for ladies.

I think this is a superb idea. Not just because the Mackinac Island tries to keep old fashioned looks and style, but just because the Grand Hotel is a classy place. I'm a jeans and t-shirt kinda girl, but I still believe that certain occasions call for dressing nice. And this is one of them.

Although, if it were up to me I would put more restriction for women. For men it's not too difficult to know what coat and tie means. This event will have teen and college girls attending. I do not want to see girls in man pants, aka lowrise. I do not want to see bellies showing, even if they do wear a blazer over the top. Personally, I don't even like the idea of women in pantsuits, at least not for classy events. A nice skirt and feminine blazer is cute. Khaki skirts should not be allowed either.

A new video will be coming soon. I am finishing a blouse from a 1956 pattern. I already have the skirt fully made, from a newer pattern. I made it for the State Convention in February. I had started the blouse, but didn't have it finished on time. So I just need to finish it. Won't take to long.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!

Above picture is the main dining room where Mike Huckabee will be speaking.

Grand Hotel

I would like to share info about the Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island during the time leading up to the time Mike Huckabee will be attending the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference. Not only am I excited about Mike Huckabee showing up, not only is the island in my district, but it is also in my county of Mackinac.

First I will share some history about the Grand Hotel.

Grand Hotel, From the Beginning
1886 Popularity of Mackinac Island grows as a summer getaway, but accommodations are limited. The Michigan Central Railroad, Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, and Detroit and Cleveland Steamship Navigation Company form the Mackinac Island Hotel Company. Land upon which Grand Hotel will stand is purchased and construction begins.
1887 Grand Hotel opens. The hotel is billed as a summer retreat for vacationers who arrive by lake steamer from Chicago, Erie, Montreal, Detroit, and by rail from across the continent. Rates are $3 to $5 a night.
1890s Grand Hotel's Front Porch - longest in the world - becomes the principal meeting place for all of Mackinac Island, as well as a promenade for the elderly and a "Flirtation Walk" for island romantics. Grand Hotel Manager James "The Comet" Hayes invites an agent of Edison Phonograph to conduct regular demonstrations of the new invention.
Dinner menu from 1890Click to read
Grand Hotel in 1890
1895 Mark Twain lectures in the Grand Hotel Casino. Admission: $1.

Turn of the Century The automobile finds its way onto the island. Grand Hotel supports an island-wide ban. A law is soon passed, but is not strictly enforced until the 1930s.
1919 Hotel rates are $6 a day per person.

1946 This Time For Keeps starring Jimmy Durante and Esther Williams is filmed on the island and at Grand Hotel.

1957 Michigan Historical Association selects Grand Hotel as a State Historical Building.

1980 Somewhere In Time, filmed at Grand Hotel and starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, and Christopher Plummer is released.

1998 Five new Named Rooms in honor of U.S. first ladies Barbara Bush, Lady Bird Johnson, Betty Ford, Rosalynn Carter and Nancy Reagan are added to the West End of the hotel. Two new two-bedroom suites, the Grand and the Carleton Varney, are also added.

2006 The Gate House, a bar/restaurant just a short walk down Grand Hill is added to the variety of offsite Grand Hotel dining options. Casual dining, live music, with indoor and outdoor seating.

There are more historical facts, if you are interested click on the link above.

Interesting Facts About Grand Hotel
Built in 1887.
385 guest rooms with no two decorated the same.

It takes 500,000 gallons of water to fill Grand Hotel's swimming pool, named for actress Esther Williams, who starred in the 1949 movie This Time for Keeps, filmed at Grand Hotel.
Somewhere in Time, starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour and Christopher Plummer, was filmed at Grand Hotel in 1979. The Somewhere in Time fan club hosts a weekend each October at Grand Hotel.
The Mackinac Bridge, visible from the hotel, was opened in 1957 and joins Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas. At 8,614 feet, it is the longest suspension bridge in North America.
Five U.S. Presidents have visited Grand Hotel: Harry Truman, John Kennedy, Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

For more fun facts click the link above.

On Mackinac, History Repeats Itself Every Day
Mackinac Island (MACK-in-awe) became one of the nation's favored summer resorts during the Victorian era. Vacationers arrived in large lake excursion boats from Buffalo, Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit seeking the cooler weather on Mackinac Island. They danced to Strauss' waltzes, listened to Sousa's stirring marches, dined on whitefish and strolled along the broad decks. To accommodate overnight guests, boat and railroad companies financed the building of Grand Hotel.
Perhaps the most noticeable first impression of Mackinac Island is the absence of automobiles. Mackinac Island is accessible only by boat or plane. Visitors and residents travel by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage. There are only 600 year-round Mackinac Island residents. During the summer, there are more than 500 horses.
To learn more about Mackinac Island, please visit http://www.mackinacisland.org/ and http://www.mackinacparks.com/.

God Bless from the Upper Peninsula in Michigan!