To the Editor:

We are affiliated with the planning of numerous events that take place in the Straits area. None are as unique as parading people and things across a five-mile long, awe-inspiring bridge over the Straits of Mackinac. Whether it's a bike, car, truck, or tractor parade, the staff at the Mackinac Bridge Authority in St. Ignace, hands down, always does a fantastic job of making sure things go off without a hitch. You already know they spend hours on end coordinating the successful annual Bridge Walk. That, in itself, is a huge undertaking. However, we think it's just as important to recognize them for all they do.

The behind-the-scenes crew at the bridge regularly goes over and above the call of duty to make sure public events, such as the antique tractor show/parade, are a success for everyone. True, coordinating events isn't in their job description. That's what makes this letter of appreciation so important.

The Mackinac Bridge Authority plays host to about a dozen different events each year. Their support is a vital in-kind service that positively impacts tourism in the Straits area and most definitely boosts the local (and state) economy. There are many people to be proud of besides those who conceptualized, secured funding, designed, and even built the bridge.

We know most of staff time is spent maintaining and operating the bridge to ensure that each crossing is a safe and secure one. Of course, the authority must continuously invest time and money into the bridge to retain its structural integrity. At the same time they do that, they assist us (and others) with high-profile events involving the bridge.

We look forward to a long and prosperous future together. Lynne Piippo, executive director St. Ignace Visitors Bureau