RELEASE
BCBSM partners with Michigan Libraries to offer free state park passes
Adriane Davis
| 2 min read
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Recreation and Park Association and Michigan Public Libraries partner to kick off Michigan’s sixth annual Park and Read Friday, May 16, at the Alpena County George N. Fletcher Library at 10 a.m. If you have a love for books and a passion for the outdoors, your local library may be participating in Park and Read, a component of MI Big Green Gym that allows library cardholders to check out a free one-day pass to explore one of Michigan’s 102 state parks. The one-day pass can be checked out and used for one vehicle entry into a park and is active for up to seven days after checkout. “Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is proud to be involved in Park and Read, which encourages Michigan residents to visit their local library, not only to exercise their mind, but to take advantage of the great opportunities available, such as the Alpena County George N. Fletcher Library, at no cost to individuals,” said Suzanne Miller Allen, director, Community Responsibility—Outstate Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “Michigan’s network of state parks present residents with over 100 different venues to get out and get active in a beautiful environment so we encourage everyone to utilize Park and Read and experience what the state parks have to offer.” “We are excited to collaborate with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the Department of Natural Resources again this year on the Park and Read program,” said Mary Clute, children’s librarian, Alpena County George N. Fletcher Library. “Park and Read has been very popular with our patrons as it encourages people to enjoy some of Michigan’s greatest resources free of charge.” “This is a great opportunity to try something different,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “Whether you’re in the mood for relaxation or high-energy exercise, Park and Read passes give everyone a great excuse to pack a picnic, hit the beach or explore a new trail at the parks.” Park and Read passes also allow visitors to participate in Recreation 101 classes offered at many Michigan state parks, be sure to check the Recreation 101 schedule and participate in free, beginner-level activities like kayaking, windsurfing or camping. For more information on Park and Read, including a complete list of events and participating libraries, visit www.michigan.gov/stateparks. Photo credit: A Healthier Michigan
