Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Ludington’s fondness for its iconic Lake Michigan Carferry prompted city officials to create a children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. This flotilla makes frequent appearances at local family events like the Final Friday Experience (formerly Friday Night Live).
Cary Shineldecker, a local resident and engineer at Precision Design, was approached about designing and coordinating this project. His love of the community prompted Shineldecker to donate his time and talent to this creation. Dow Chemical generously donated a lawn tractor over which the “ship” would sit, and GLC Metal Fabricators went to work on the steel fabrication. Then Lake Painting provided the sandblasting and painting for the project. Once this part was done, the Department of Public Works built the boats that attach to the back, with graphics done by Tye’s Signs and Northwood Signs. To cover the city’s costs, local businesses sponsor the individual boats that the children ride in.
The Baby Badger, as it is affectionately named, made its debut at the first of four Friday Night Live events (now called the Final Friday Experience) in Ludington July 18, 2008. It was a huge hit, and the boats were constantly filled with children as city and carferry officials maneuvered the ride through the streets.
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Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
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