Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, who earlier this month rode a Harley Davidson to promote motorcycle safety, is at it again – but this time she’s making a seven-mile kayak trip from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City on Friday, May 31.
Johnson, weather permitting, will be in her personal 18-foot kayak for the trip across the Straits, which could take up to three hours. The Hobie Cat, covered in decals promoting everything from the Pure Michigan license plate to organ donation, is powered by paddles, pedals and is also outfitted with a sail that highlights ExpressSOS.com.
“Let’s hope our Pure Michigan weather cooperates as we kick off the summer season,” said Johnson. “We simply don’t have enough money to really advertise our convenient online services so we had to be creative.” She noted department staffing levels are 25 percent below what they were a decade ago.
Johnson is partnering with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Shepler’s Ferry for the trip, dubbed “Kayakinac” by her team. The kayak will be making appearances throughout Michigan this summer, including the Traverse City Cherry Festival parade.
Those interested in Johnson’s travels can track her progress on the official Secretary of State Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/MichSoS and Facebook at www.facebook.com/MichiganSOS.
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of Michigan’s boating season and Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is urging everyone to have a safe, great boating season this year.
With more than 900,000 registered watercraft on file with the Secretary of State’s Office, it’s clear that Michiganians love their boats. Whether you sail, paddle or motor, Secretary Johnson reminds everyone to always wear a lifejacket, operate your craft safely and responsibly, and obey all maritime laws.
Watercraft owners should note that not all boats need to be registered with the state. Michigan requires registration except for watercraft that are:
- 16 feet or shorter, propelled by oars or paddles, and not used for rental or commercial purposes;
- Nonmotorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes, rafts, surfboards, sailboards, and swim floats, regardless of length; and
- Watercraft registered in another state and used only temporarily in Michigan.
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By purchasing the Recreation Passport when you renew your license plate registration, you'll experience state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, non-motorized trails, boat launches and hundreds of Passport Perks shopping discounts from around the state. You'll also support historic and cultural sites in state parks and grants for neighborhood parks. |
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