Empire celebrates Anchor Day

From staff reports

Empire will host its annual Anchor Day celebration on Saturday, July 20. It is a day of fun for the whole family, put on by the Empire Area Community Center. The event commemorates the raising of the now-famous anchor from Lake Michigan in July 1977.

The day begins at the Empire Beach Park Pavilion with the Anchor Day Fun Run at 9 am. Registration opens in the pavilion at 8:45 am.

A parade is held on Front Street at 2 pm, and all are welcome to enter as participants.

The Empire Lions Club will host a BBQ Chicken Dinner at the Township Hall from 1-7 pm. Cost for entry is $13 for adults and $6 for children under 10 years old. The menu consists of grilled chicken, baked beans, coleslaw and potatoes, with shortcake for dessert.

The evening will conclude with a street dance in front of the Empire Township Hall from 8-11 pm. There will be live music from “Doc Probes, the Music Doctor & David Goodwin, Professional Drummer”. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chair and dancing shoes, and BYOB.