On Saturday, the Barbeau Business Association will be holding their fourth annual Poker Run. With registration beginning at 11 a.m., the snowmobile fun-run will be based out of the St. Mary's River Sportsman's Club this year -- located one mile south of the 15 Mile and Scenic Drive corner.

The poker run festivities will be held at the Sportsmen's Club, because of the recent loss of the Barbeau landmark -- Cozy Corners Tavern and Grill.

"We've held the poker run at Cozy Corners for the last three years," said Al Schwartz, who owns Riverview Resort & Marina along with his wife, Rosie. "Unfortunately, we won't be able to do that because of the January fire. The Sportsman's Club was very accommodating to allow us to hold our function there."

Registration will continue through 2 p.m., although the Poker Run itself starts at 1 p.m. Cards will be dealt promptly at 4 p.m. with award ceremonies, karaoke and festivities immediately following.

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Comprised of eight members -- Antler Bay, Cozy Corner Tavern & Grill, Ferrellgas, Green's Resort, L & L Trucking and Excavating, Menominee's Resort, Riverview Resort & Marina, and Sonny's Rest Up -- the Barbeau Business Association will award cash prizes based on the best five card poker hand.

First prize is $200, donated by Ferrellgas; second prize is $100, donated by McDonald Realty; and third prize is $50, donated by Exploring the North Internet Services.

Along the approximately 32-mile poker run route will be a "Mystery Stop" -- which may be found through collecting clues at all of the other checkpoints on the route. An extra poker card may be earned by visiting this spot -- earning its holder a chance to win the "Mystery Stop" prize of $50, donated by Antler Bay Trophy Whitetail Ranch.

"We have a lot of fun," said Rosie. "Only two people in the Barbeau Business Association even know where that spot is -- they don't tell the rest of us. One year, it was right in my backyard and I didn't know until that afternoon. We all really enjoy the poker run -- it's nice to meet all of the different people who participate, and it gives us (the business association) a chance to showcase our community."

There will also be awards presented to the individual with the oldest sled, as well as to the person who traveled the farthest in order to participate.

After the awards ceremony, the evening's activities will kick off with beverages, including the adult variety, available through the St. Mary's River Sportsman's Club and food made by the staff of Cozy Corners.

"The Gardellas and their employees will be cooking up hamburgers, hot dogs, and brats -- along with assorted salads," said Al. "There will be quite a selection available that will appeal to all ages."

Karaoke by Michele and Dave -- the owners of Green's Resort -- will complete the afternoon of riding, friendly competition, and recreation.

"It's a really good time," said Al. "You can be a terrible singer but still have a lot of fun."

Proceeds from the Barbeau Poker Run will go towards obtaining a DNR-sanctioned snowmobile trail for Barbeau. "We've been aiming for a trail that runs from the Cedarville area straight to the Sault," said Rosie. "The other two areas already have great systems -- we're just looking for a way to connect them."

Source: Brenda Weber, The Evening News