Acheson Ventures - News & Information

6/26/07 The following article regarding details of Sail Port Huron 2008 is posted on boatnerd.com, written by Frank Frisk.

Event filled with history, adventure

6/26 - Port Huron - Batten down the hatches, mate. The pirates are retuning to Port Huron. Only this time they are coming by sea, aboard the "Royaliste."

The pirate-themed tall ship, which is a living history interpretation/reenactment vessel, is one of five such vessels that will join the "Highlander Sea" for the 2008 Sail Port Huron event this weekend. The three-day festival is Friday through Sunday at Desmond Landing, Desmond Marine and the Seaway Terminal. It includes tall ships, artists, entertainment, food, and, oh yeah, a fireworks display that will dazzle the nighttime sky. Acheson Ventures sponsors Sail Port Huron.

"It´s really a family oriented event," Acheson spokesman Paul Maxwell said. "It´s a chance to see some of the largest tall ships that sail. People who love the boats have a chance to get onboard and talk with the crews as well as enjoy some good entertainment and food." In addition to the "Highlander Sea" and the "Royaliste," which was a favorite of the 2006 Sail Port Huron event, the other tall ships include:

The "Madeline," which is a reconstruction of a mid-19th century Great Lakes schooner and one of the State of Michigan´s official tall ships. Operated by volunteer members of the nonprofit group, Maritime Heritage Alliance in Traverse City, its mission is to serve as a floating center for the interpretation of Great Lakes maritime history.

The U.S. Brig "Niagara" was built in 1988 as a reconstruction of a warship aboard which Com. Oliver Hazard Perry won the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813 during the War of 1812.

The "Pride of Baltimore II" is the world´s only existing replica of an 1812-era Baltimore Clipper topsail schooner.

The "Appledore V" of Bay City is a steel hulled, Gaff rigged schooner typical of those sailed on coastal waters and in the Great Lakes right up to the end of the age of sail. The workhorses of their era, they provided the primary means of transportation for goods and passengers over long distances. "Appledore V" is used primarily for overnight voyaging throughout the Great Lakes.

"The ´Appledore V´ is a last minute addition, filling in for the ´La Revenante,´ which had to cancel," Maxwell said. "We´re very a happy to have the ´Appledore V´ joining us and we think the crowds are going to love her."

Maxwell said the three bigger tall ships will join the "Highlander Sea" at the bean docks while the two small will dock in the Black River at Desmond Marine.

Other highlights of the weekend will include artists at both Desmond Landing and the Seaway Terminal. Entertainment on the county stage is scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and throughout the day Saturday prior to the fireworks. The Strathroy Legion Pipe Band plays from noon to 1 p.m. Sunday. "There will also be plenty of food vendors at both sites," Maxwell said.

Saturday´s fireworks display is sure to dazzle everyone. Scheduled to go off about 10 p.m., the show is being simulcast by computer on radio stations 96.9 and 107.1 FM. "People can sit in their cars anywhere from a mile from Desmond Landing and see and listen to the fireworks," Maxwell said.

Sail Port Huron hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Gates open one hour prior to start. Ships close promptly at 5 p.m. Trolleys will carry folks from one site to the other, free of charge. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children age 12 and younger.

"People really enjoyed this event two years ago, so we just want folks to come down again, have fun and enjoy the waterfront," Maxwell said. "Who knows when the next time is that we´ll see all these tall ships together in the area. You can´t predict that."

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"Any inspiration which arouses one´s life and awakens

it to its own possibilities,guiding one to devote his

life and efforts as a leader in the world´s work

is worth while."

Dr.Edward Goodrich Acheson,1856-1931

1/7/07 Fresh Water Focus: Beneath Port Huron’s Blue Water premiere showing took place on Wednesday November 7, 2007 at the McMorran Auditorium in Port Huron. This documentary, which is available on our website on DVD, takes a look at the life and history that lies beneath the river with the most amazing sights that exist just below the surface of Port Huron’s blue water. It was filmed by local divers and produced by the Great Lakes Maritime Media Company, a division of Acheson Ventures. A diverse audience enjoyed the documentary during the premier showing along with the additional showings that took place at the Great Lakes Maritime Center on November 8; November 15 and November 29, 2007.

10/3/07 The Cleveland Elementary School in Port Huron held a playground dedication ceremony to celebrate the new playground that was built this summer. The James C. Acheson Foundation’s contribution covered most of the cost of the new playground and basketball court. Construction began in late June and was completed by mid August.

August thru October, 2007

The Farmer’s Market took place twice a week for the first time at Vantage Point with great success. The market took place on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7:00 am until 2:00 pm thru September and on Saturdays during the month of October. Vendors brought Michigan produce, trees, shrubs, flowers, perennials along with artwork and crafts from many local artists. Acheson Ventures and the Michigan State University Extension sponsored this event.

6/30/07 During the Port Huron Sesquicentennial to celebrate their 150th birthday a Fireworks Display sponsored by Acheson Ventures, Physician Health Care Network, and Port Huron Building Supply Company took place at dusk on Saturday, June 30, 2007. Before the fireworks, several activities took place at the Desmond Landing with inflatables for kids, car show and rib fest along with performances by many local groups. Check out the photo gallery for additional spectacular pictures of the fireworks in the 2007 Events at Vantage Point folder.

Be A Tourist In Your Own Town:

Saturday, June 2, 2007

The day was filled with fun-filled activities and tours with groups of people from many different areas enjoying the opportunities to see what our Blue Water area has to offer. Young and old enjoyed the sights and sounds at the Seaway Terminal while viewing the Retired Coast Guard Cutter Bramble, the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Grayfox, and Highlander Sea along with the Great Lakes Nautical Society Model Show and the Port Huron Museum Marine Flea Market. They enjoyed a wide variety of food while several music groups provided easy listening music.

Transportation was provided around town to give everyone an opportunity to experience the tour stops, which included Studio 1219 and the Great Lakes Maritime Center. At the Great Lakes Maritime Center, several people had an opportunity to sit back and watch the divers on the underwater camera.

Flower Festival Outside at Vantage Point:

Saturday, May 19, 2007

During the first annual Flower Market visitors to Vantage Point had an opportunity to purchase flowers and plants for their flower gardens. Local growers featured flats of flowers, potted plants, fruit trees and much much more. Visitors strolled the boardwalk and watched the ships gracefully pass by while shopping for their flowers and enjoyed food and beverages at the Coffee Harbor located in the Maritime Center along with fries and ice cream from Anchor Fries and the Ice Cream Wagon.

Studio 1219 Joins the Festivities at Flower Festival

While shopping for flowers at the Flower Market visitors at Vantage Point had an opportunity to view the local artists from Studio 1219 listening to music, buying art while supporting our local artists.

4/27/4007 River Day is a celebration of the rivers, lakes and bays in St. Clair County. Every year, in early June, individuals, businesses, community groups, and local governments across St. Clair County join forces to protect, enhance, and celebrate St. Clair County´s seven watersheds: Mill Creek, Black River, St. Clair River, Lake Huron, Belle River, Pine River and Anchor Bay. Acheson Ventures is proud to tka epart in this celebration by offering free fishing at Vantage Point, June 9 and 10. Please see the following links for more information on what you can do.

http://www.cis.stclaircounty.org/downloads/event_guide_pg2.pdf

http://www.cis.stclaircounty.org/planning8450504.asp

http://www.cis.stclaircounty.org/planning7049120.asp

1/26/07 Acheson Ventures is proud to announce a variety of activities and events taking place at the Great Lakes Maritime Center and at Vantage Point. There is something for everyone and all ages including concerts, model boat building, children´s story telling hour, skating and much more. Please check the calendar for dates, times and details. When you are looking for something to do, look at Vantage Point.

12/19/06 Acheson Ventures is proud to announce the addition of a Skating Rink at Vantage Point. The rink is ready to go, just waiting for some cooperation from Mother Nature. Additional lighting will be in place for evening skating. Grab though skates from the back of the closet or lace up the new ones from Santa and come down and enjoy. Hockey is not permitted on the ice.

11/27/06 Once again, Acheson Ventures is proud to announce the Holiday Light displays at Vantage Point, Lincoln Park, Port Huron Terminal Co. and other areas located on Desmond Landing. Many of the south side businesses have joined in to give the South side a truly festive look. Please take some time to bring your family and friends to have a look. You will truly enjoy it. Happy Holidays.

9/12/06 On August 18, 19, and 20, Acheson Ventures and Highlander Sea hosted the Sail Port Huron, Maritime Festival. The Royaliste and Unicorn were available for viewing at the Desmond Marine dock located at 207 Water Street.

The Niagara, Picton Castle, Pride of Baltimore II, and Highlander Sea were available for viewing at the Port Huron Terminal Company located at 2336 Military Street.

Tours of these magnificent sailing vessels took place for an admission charge of a non-perishable food item per person or a cash donation. Tons of food and generous cash donations benefited the Mid-City Nutrition Kitchen and local food banks.

J. Chester ´Skip´ Armstrong demonstrated the art of woodcarving on Saturday and Sunday just south of the Great Lakes Maritime Center, along with various local artists including representative from Studio 1219. Musical entertainment from local artists was enjoyed throughout the weekend at the Seaway Terminal Bean Dock and Vantage Point. Visitors enjoyed a choice of food from the vendors at Vantage Point including Coffee Harbor, Anchor Fries, Ice Cream Trailer, 2 x 2 Concessions featuring elephant ears and Turtle Bay Cheesecake Company. Visitors also enjoyed the vendors at the Bean Dock that included the Guadalupe Mission with authentic Mexican food, SONS with grilled Kielbasa and hot dogs, and Bridge Builders featuring Schwan´s Ice Cream and It’s a Poppin´ Kettle Corn.

9/8/2006 Create an account and view Linda’s Album of the Tall Ships Challenge 2006

HARBORSIDE OFFICE CENTER RECEIVES TWO HONORS:

2006 Engineering Society of Detroit’s (ESD)

Construction and Design Award

The ESD Construction and Design Awards are among the leading recognitions given to members of the construction industry and their projects. The awards recognize outstanding team achievement and innovative use of technology. The three primary members of the building team, which are the owners, designers and contractors, are recognized with the ESD award. Take a moment to click on the Construction and Design Award link to view the information on this award.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®)

Core and Shell Silver Level Certification

This national consensus-based, standard system is designed to accelerate the development and implementation of environmentally responsible, often referred to as “green” buildings. Leed® recognizes achievements, promotes expertise in green building, and emphasizes state of the art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. Take a moment to click on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design to view the Honors achieved during the most recent decade. Also, take a moment to view the Core and Shell Silver Level Certification to view the News Release dated 5/22/2006 for this honor.

Channel 4 Broadcasters Join Acheson Ventures at Bayview Yacht Club´s Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Week

Reporter Paula Tutman from WDIV, Local 4 reports from Highlander Sea on the BayView Yacht Club’s Port Huron to Mackinac Race.

Meteorologist Chuck Gaidica from WDIV, brings the weather report to Local 4 viewers from the Black River at Vantage Point in Port Huron during the BayView Yacht Club´s Port Huron to Mackinac Race.

Meteorologist Chuck Gaidica from WDIV joins Chris Gearhart on Highlander Sea during the BayView Yacht Club’s Port Huron to Mackinac Race.

Radio Disney Comes To Town!

AM910 Radio Disney partnered with Acheson Ventures to bring the fun and excitement of Disney to the BayView Yacht Club’s Port Huron to Mackinac Race on Family Night, Thursday, July 13.

The program which started at 5:00 pm with games and prizes concluded with a live interactive show from 7:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

The live interactive show featured games, dance routines and family fun in a high-energy DJ format with “Miss Firecracker” who kept the audience literally on their toes. As you view our “Disney Radio” pictures you will see that members of the audience, children and adults both, participated in the games and family fun getting the chance to win DVD’s, Fun “wearables” and other goodies. “Miss Firecracker” led the audience to the hits like “Follow The Leader” and “The Cha Cha Slide”. Disney Radio brought their show to Port Huron along the Black River at the Water Street area with the beautiful back drop of the sailboats participating in the 2006 Port Huron to Mackinac Race.

5/18/06 Sometimes we get the greatest notes, we just have to share. This is posted with permission from Mr. and Mrs. Sampson:

Good Afternoon:

As a former resident of Port Huron, please know how excited my husband and I were to discover Desmond Landing and other Acheson Ventures projects when visiting home earlier this week. My husband hasn´t
´caught the boat bug addiction´ yet...but I am definitely working on him! We did get some fine pictures of boats and a saltie or two...

Please know how much we appreciate your investment in preserving the most wonderful waterway in the world for the people of Port Huron, former residents who return home to visit and tourists. How absolutely wonderful to spend a number of hours 2 days this week, just sitting at Desmond Landing and watching
´my´ boats go by. In this era of greed and building of condos along waterfront property USA wide, I was so proud of Acheson for the gift of waterfront preservation for everyone to experience. The historical information, the volunteers and Boat Nerd are all helpful and friendly parts of the preservation and lore of the region. Who´d have thought that one day I would sit on a wooden bench bolted to the railroad tracks that were used for the trains on the old railroad bridge across Black River?

Monday we spent hours walking along the river from the old Dunn paper mill to the Huron lightship. Tuesday and Wednesday hours were spent enjoying the river scene at Desmond Landing. WOW, and that doesn´t even begin to cover my extreme joy in the discovery of these two areas that have been developed for the USE by the PEOPLE.

Again, thank you for all you are doing.

Jane and Reed Sampson

4/20/2006 The ships´ hours for the Maritime Festival, Sail Port Huron are from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19 and 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, August 20. The price of admission is one non-perishable food item per person or a cash donation to Mid-City Nutrition. All proceeds will go to Mid-City Nutrition.

There will also be activities during this time and in the evening at Vantage Point, including folk singing and artist demonstration by J. Chester Armstrong (Saturday and Sunday).

3/15/2006 The 2006 Festival will take place over two weekends. June 24, 2006 will feature a magnificent fireworks display over the St. Clair River at Vantage Point. August 18-20, Acheson Ventures will host some magnificent sailing vessels for Sail Port Huron, a maritime festival.

4/10/06 The following article appeared on the Daily Great Lakes and Seaway Shipping News section of www.boatnerd.com:

Vantage Point Has It All for Boat Watchers

When Boat Watchers find a place with good freighter traffic, plenty of parking, a place to sit down and wait, some first hand information on what traffic is due. What is the next two things they look for? - Food and restrooms.

Port Huron´s Vantage Point has recently opened the Great Lakes Maritime Center adjacent to the Great Lakes & Seaway Shipping (BoatNerd.Com) world headquarters, and the Center has it all. A long wall of windows offers a clear view of river traffic.

Inside you will find plenty of comfortable seating and the "The Coffee Harbor" featuring a variety of flavored coffees, soft drinks, assorted deli sandwiches and healthy salads. To make your trip to Vantage Point even better, the fry wagon will open for the season on Wednesday, April 12, and the ice cream wagon can´t be far behind.

Vantage Point is located at the foot of Water Street in Port Huron, where the Black River empties in the St. Clair River.

4/5/2006 Acheson Ventures will host a maritime festival, August 18-20.

3/27/2006 When you visit Port Huron, stop by at Studio 1219 located at 1219 Military Street. Since opening last summer it has become a hot spot attracting businesses, offering programs and giving artists a space to display their work.

7/25/05 The start of the 81st Port Huron to Mackinac Race sponsored by Bayview Yacht Club and Bacardi got off to a slow start, but had a quick finish. The boats were incredible.

6/5/04 On Saturday, June 4, the Terminal joined in with other places of interest for " Be A Tourist in Your Town Day". People that attended enjoyed a marine flea market sponsored by the Port Huron Museum; working model boats sponsored by the Great Lakes Nautical Society; free tours on USCG Bramble and SCS Grayfox; and live music. This is an annual event, so if you missed it mark your calendars for next year. It is held the first Saturday in June.

1/11/05 Acheson Ventures will take part in the ´Ice Carving Weekend´ sponsored by Main Street Port Huron this coming weekend, January 14-16. You can watch ice carving in front of the Parfet
Building at 1403 Military and ´Jim´s Standard Station´ at 1522 Military Street. The Standard Station also serves as the Information Center for Acheson Ventures. Volunteers will be serving free hot cocoa and coffee from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday and Noon till 4:00 Saturday and Sunday.

11/18/04 The Acheson Ventures´ Autumn 2004 Newsletter is now available, covering:

Countdown to Harborside Opening
Let´s Think About Christmas
VNA Moving to Our Neighborhood
Colony Marine Joins Desmond Maring
It´s a Bird, It´s a Plane... No, It´s a Light
Fishing Access Point Reel Nice!

10/1/04 WJR Radio 760 broadcast the Paul W. Morning Show live from the Port Huron Terminal Co.

5/24/04 Dr. James C. Acheson receives the Russell G. Mawby Award for Philanthropy from Governor Granholm. This is Michigan´s highest honor for an individual whose philanthropic endeavors have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to encourage private action for public good. Also on this date, Dr. Acheson received recognition from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for the Acheson Southside Redevelopment Project.

7/12/04 An article on Dr. Acheson´s philanthropic efforts was featured in Crain´s Detroit Business.