The Michigan War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission, the Michigan Council for History Education and DTE Energy, are seeking 3rd-12th grade student entries in “The Legacy of the War of 1812” essay contest. This contest is open to all Michigan students. Entries will be judged in three grade categories: 3rd-5th; 6th-8th; and 9th-12th grades. Entry deadline is Wed., Dec. 24th (200th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Ghent). Read more

SIDNEY, Neb. – Cabela’s Incorporated, the World’s Foremost Outfitter® of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, today announced its Holiday Head Start: Hunt for Bucks Sweepstakes is offering $100,000 in Cabela’s gift cards to customers who register online.

Daily, online registration for Cabela’s Hunt for Bucks Sweepstakes is now open and continues through Saturday, Dec. 13. Winners are selected daily for Cabela’s gift cards valued between $1,000 and $5,000, and one lucky winner will receive a grand-prize gift card valued at $10,000. Read more

GW:  Seems like a lot of money, but anyone making their own snowshoes, would have a keepsake. 

Sleepy Hollow State Park (Clinton County) will offer several two-day snowshoe-building classes this winter, and registration is available now. Participants will learn to weave a pair of traditional wooden snowshoes similar to those made by Native Americans for generations. Below is the class schedule:

Friday, Dec. 5:  5-9 p.m. (Part 1)

Saturday, Dec. 6:  9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2) 

Friday, Jan. 9:  5-9 p.m. (Part 1)

Saturday, Jan. 10:  9 a.m.-1p.m. (Part 2)

Friday, Jan. 23:  5-9 p.m. (Part 1)

Saturday, Jan. 24:  9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2) 

Friday, Feb. 13:  5-9 p.m. (Part 1)

Saturday, Feb. 14:  9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Part 2)

The cost for making a pair of snowshoes is $170 and includes the pre-formed wooden frames, lacing, high-quality bindings and personal instruction. Sealing is required before the snowshoes can be used. Sealing will not be included in the cost of the class, but the instructor will demonstrate the sealing process. Classes are designed to be fun, informative and interesting. Because this is an activity that requires concentration over long periods of time, it is recommended for ages 16 and older. Read more

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Bass Pro Shops has set aside November and December to show its support for the brave men and women in uniform by hosting fundraising months for two military-related organizations. From Nov. 11, 2014, until the end of the year, Bass Pro Shops is providing a donation program for the United Service Organizations (USO) and AMVETS at its stores across the country. During these months, Bass Pro Shops will promote these organizations and provide fundraising opportunities for them.

“Bass Pro Shops has a long history of supporting our military, veterans and our families especially through their vast amount of outreach. It is truly amazing the direct impact we are accomplishing in partnering with them,” said Stewart Hickey, AMVETS national executive director. “All proceeds derived from our partnership are used in supporting programs including Warrior Transition Workshops and our National Career Centers. Both of these programs directly assist returning veterans in overcoming issues like high unemployment rates and PTSD, enabling them to return to productive civilian lives. The effort that Bass Pro puts into their patriotic initiatives is awe inspiring, and we graciously thank them for making a difference.”

During November and December, Bass Pro Shops stores throughout the U.S. will offer customers an opportunity to donate $1, $3 or $5 to AMVETS or the USO. In the last six years, Bass Pro Shops helped raise more than $1 million on behalf of these two organizations. Read more

FOND DU LAC, Wis.- Mercury Racing unveiled a concept small block four-valve automotive crate engine yesterday at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. SEMA consists of a diverse group of manufacturers, distributors, retailers, publishing companies, auto restorers, street-rod builders, restylers, car clubs, race teams and more. Read more