HOUGHOTN — The Portage Lake District Library invites the community to a captivating evening with author Mike Fornes at 6 p.m.tonight at the library. Dive into the world of the US Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw (WLBB-30) and the rich maritime history of Michigan through the lens of a seasoned journalist and storyteller.

Fornes has spent more 25 years documenting the missions of the U.S. Coast Guard’s legendary icebreakers and brings amazing stories, historical insights, and fascinating visuals that make learning about Michigan’s Great Lakes both educational and fun–a perfect way to kick off your summer.

Fornes has covered the original icebreaker Mackinaw and its new successor of the same name for more than 25 years for several media outlets in Northern Michigan, including radio and television stations and the Cheboygan Daily Tribune.

He has reported on and photographed the many missions of these two great ships, filing first-hand stories of icebreaking, buoy-tending, public relations events, law enforcement, and search and rescue patrols. A member of the Historical Society of Michigan, he enjoys scuba diving and sailing among his interests in the Northern Michigan area.

Fornes estimates that he has given more than 2,000 tours of the Mackinac Bridge and USCGC Mackinaw from motorcoaches, cruise boats and shore-based presentations.

He is the author of Mackinac Bridge – A 50 Year Chronicle 1957-2007, USCGC Mackinaw WAGB 83 – An Illustrated History of a Great Lakes Queen, and three titles for Arcadia Publishing – Mackinac Bridge, USCGC Mackinaw (WLBB-30), and Mackinac Island’s GRAND HOTEL.

Don’t miss this chance to discover more about Michigan from one of its most passionate voices! Portage Lake District Library 58 Huron Street, Houghton, MI No registration required For more information, contact Asako Nakamura at anakamura@pldl.org .