Department of Natural Resources state park and recreation officials today announced the 13th season for "Message from the Marsh," a cultural and historical performing arts series that is presented each Saturday evening beginning June 21 on the lawn stage adjacent to the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center inside the Bay City State Recreation Area.

"Each of the performers inspires an awareness and appreciation for the resources which make Michigan unique," said Valerie Blaschka, park interpreter. "Their one-hour performance is a great way to conclude a family's visit to the park. Following the performance, visitors are encouraged to take a twilight stroll by the bay on our paved trail and boardwalk. The opportunities for wildlife viewing are outstanding."

Message from the Marsh is co-sponsored by the Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Bay City State Recreation Area, with financial support from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Northeast Michigan Arts Council and the Bay Area Community Foundation's Civic League of Bay County.

Each performance begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free; however, all motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the park entrance. Cost is $24 for a resident annual and $6 for a resident daily. A nonresident annual is $29 and a nonresident daily is $8.

This summer's Message from the Marsh schedule includes:

• June 21, "Michigan Harmony" with The Dulcimer Connection. Join these crowd-pleasing folk artists for a magical performance of our region's history through stories and songs.
• June 28, "Michigan Home Street Music" with Dan Hazlett.
• July 12, "Adventures in Michigan's Past" with Larry B. Massie.
• July 19, "Freshwater Shanty Songs & Maritime History" with Hoolie. These talented musicians and sailors present original songs and stirring tales to take their audience on a historical adventure.
• July 26, "Lighthouse Ghost Stories" with Lori Feret. Tales of lighthouse keepers and their ghosts.
• Aug. 2, "Come to the Fire" with John Two Hawks. Enjoy traditional flute music and ceremonial customs in this delightful journey into Native American culture.
• Aug. 9, "Songs of the Great Lakes" with Jere Stormer. This performer's songs and stories of the Great Lakes paint a colorful picture of our region's remarkable maritime history.
• Aug. 16, "The Past in Person - 1941 CCC" with Michael Deren. Relive the daily camp life of a Michigan Civilian Conservation Corps enrollee. Audience participation adds an element of fun to this special voyage into Michigan's past.
• Aug. 23, "Michigan Delight" with David McNinch. The artist weaves his delightful music with tales from Michigan's past using a variety of folk instruments.
• Aug. 31, "The Great Lakes Troubadour" with Neil Woodward. This performer makes Michigan's history come alive through his original compositions, traditional ballads and popular dance tunes.

Participants should bring their own blankets or lawn chairs. The stage is a short walk from the parking area. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be held inside the visitor center. Following each performance, the audience will have an opportunity to meet the performer. For more information, please contact the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center at (989) 667-0717.