Dave Bilski of Iron Mountain was awarded two trophies at the annual four day rendezvous of the Upper Peninsula Muzzle Loaders Association. The trophy on the left was awarded for the best U.P. Shooter, and the traveling trophy on the right was awarded for being the Best Rifle at all distances and all shooters.

    BARAGA — The Upper Peninsula Muzzle Loaders Association recently held its annual four-day rendezvous at the Ottawa Sportsmen's Club.
    There were 36 men, women and junior shooters among the more than 65 participants from 12 U.P. and lower Michigan communities, seven Wisconsin communities and Minnesota.
    Participants shot muzzle loaders, percussion and flintlock rifles and smooth bores and muzzle loading pistols at 25, 50, and 100 yards in three classes.
    Dave Bilski of Iron Mountain, a member of the Quinnesec Falls Muzzle Loaders, won the trophy for Best U.P. Shooter and the large traveling trophy for Best Rifle at all distances, and all shooters.

    Other events were Hawk and Knife, Primitive Archery, Pan Toss, Hammer Throw, Fire Starting with Flint and Steel, a pistol woodswalk, and a rifle woodswalk. Ribbons and trophies awarded in each event.
    Twenty primitive lodges set up with most cooking over an open campfire along with six modern units and a few computers.
    The Ericka Awonhopay Family of the Menominee Indian Tribe put on a demonstration of drumming and dancing during the evening with many joining in.
    Next year's event will be held the third Saturday in July. Memberships are available at registration.
    The local Quinnesec Falls Muzzle Loaders shoot the third Saturday of each month at the Niagara Range. All primitive muzzleloader shooters are welcome.