ESCANABA — All of the holiday weeks throughout the year all bring us together. But there is something with the 4th of July week that is unique. The area has many special events and celebrations around the 4th.

There are parades, music, cookouts, fireworks all crowded into a few days of incredible fun. But the really special thing about this week is the number of former residents that make an annual pilgrimage back to Delta County. There will be many class reunions throughout the area celebrating the long lasting friendships from high school. I always love seeing everyone that makes trip back home. No matter what curve balls life throws at us, they all seem less significant as we get to renew relationships with many returning friends. Every year the funny stories get more embellished, but are still hilarious. I hope everyone traveling has a safe trip home after their visit and that you had a great time during your trip to the special place we call home.

It is easy to see why visitors like to come here, even if it is for a short time. I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Island Resort Championship this past week. It is always wonderful to hear the golfers from all over the world, state what a wonderful place the U.P. is to visit. While there are many positive attributes to their participation in the golf tournament, it is the friendly group of volunteers, sponsors and hosts of the tournament that make it special for these aspiring LPGA golfers. I am always very proud of the hospitality of the Island Resort, many sponsors and citizens that make the event special. Great job by all show casing how to run a top notch event.

The opportunity is always there to make an impression on someone that might be visiting for the first time, like the travelers on the Pearl Mist cruises that have made a stop this week in Escanaba. I am sure the positive views of our guest will hit the social media airwaves regarding their great visit to this special place! It is not an accident that the cruise industry is looking to come here. Thanks to everyone for their participation in the events welcoming the ship into port.

After we celebrate Independence Day, we can look forward to a long list of events coming up the rest of the summer and into fall. As a visitor it is never too early to start planning your return trip for the UP State Fair, August 12 – 18. The event continues to get better and better year over year. I hope you can make it to this wonderful annual event.

Enjoy your time this week with family & friends.

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Ed Legault is director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance