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Yooper. (noun) A nickname for a native or resident of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, derived from the initials “U.P.” And oh by the way, it happens to rhyme with “Cooper.”

And that’s what we were, during our recent, four-day adventure north for the inaugural Keweenaw MINI Rendezvous. This event was hosted from 14-17 August the Keweenaw Peninsula between the picturesque towns of Houghton and Copper Harbor, Michigan. It was yet another fantastically fun time with great MINI friends, both from EIM and new folks that we met along the way. We explored a lot of wonderful new territory, motored on some great stretches of challenging twisties, and visited many interesting and fun stops along the way. Enjoyed some spectacular weather and the view of Portage Lake and Mont Ripley from the backyard of our hotel. Had some mighty fine meals together, including some real homemade pasties. Partied in downtown Houghton with all of the MINI folk in town. Waded in Lake Superior (well, at least the ladies did). Gazed at the huge snowfall thermometer near Calumet. Heard our names and home towns on the radio station during our police escort out of Houghton on Day #1. Made the front page of the local paper — both print and web editions. By most accounts, had the best barbeque brisket ever at the group picnic on Friday. Marveled at the views in all directions from Brockway Mountain Drive. Picked and ate wild thimbleberries (with no adverse reactions). Visited shops, lighthouses, beaches, waterfalls, historic bridges, Art in the Park, a bakery run by monks, a copper mine, and the one and only “Gay Bar.” Enjoyed the superb scenery of the peninsula wherever we motored. Met some great new MINI friends. Oh, and Mike got a lump of coal as a gift (you’ll have to ask him). All in all, a most enjoyable and memorable MINI experience!

We extend our sincere thanks to Houghton locals Keith Riley and Mike Rose for their fantastic planning, organization, coordination with local businesses, media, and law enforcement, and outright leadership in putting on this event. Not one detail was overlooked. The bigger events need to pick these guys’ brains so they can learn how to do it right.

Pictures from our adventure to the Keweenaw have been added to our Photo Gallery and can be accessed directly by using the following link:

EIM at the Keweenaw MINI Rendezvous, Houghton, MI, 8-14-14 to 8-17-14

Thanks to the participating EIMers for making this trip so much fun!

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