The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society announces that tickets are now on sale for the Mackinac Bridge Tower Tour Raffle! The winner and one guest will travel by elevator up into one of the main towers of the Mackinac Bridge to the viewing platform, 552 feet above the Straits of Mackinac – one of most scenic views in the world. Certain rules apply as set by the Mackinac Bridge Authority. Winners must meet basic physical standards, sign a liability waiver and provide official identification. The tour will take place in the morning on a date between August 15 and October 15, 2009 as arranged between the winner and Bridge Authority. The drawing date for this raffle is Saturday, August 15, 2009, at 2 pm at the Shipwreck Museum, Whitefish Point. Second Prize is an overnight stay in the Crews Quarters Building for two; and Third Prize is a Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum Jacket. As with other Society raffles, tickets are $5.00 each or 5 tickets for $20.00. Raffle tickets may be purchased now by visiting our Online Shop at www.shipwreckmuseum.com or by calling the Society administrative offices at 800-635-1742. Michigan raffle license # R00103.

The famous Light Tower at Whitefish Point has been in continuous operation for 148 years. While the U.S. Coast Guard continues to maintain its life-saving beacon, the tower itself became property of the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society in 1998. The Society is now responsible for maintaining this wonderful lighthouse, an icon for so many Michigan residents and visitors. Its construction was authorized by President Lincoln and it is made strictly out of iron – no steel. The Society announces that Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program has awarded $40,000 in funding for tower restoration on a matching basis. While this money will go a long way, it is not enough to complete the entire project – a very major job that costs in excess of $125,000. The Shipwreck Society needs to raise additional money, and we are asking our members and the public for help over the course of the summer 2009. The Society is organizing a major fundraising campaign for this purpose. If you would like to help preserve the Whitefish Point Lighthouse, please contact the Shipwreck Society offices toll-free at 800-635-1742 – ask for Sean Ley, Development Officer.