IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Celebrities and travelers converged on Dickinson County this past weekend in an effort to bolster tourism and promote the beautiful Upper Peninsula region. The event, named “Rock the Mountain,” not only aimed to raise funds for a noble cause but also tantalized taste buds with mouthwatering grilling escapades.
Taking center stage were the dynamic TV hosts from the beloved Midwest show “Mad Dogg and Merrill.” Against the stunning backdrop of Pine Mountain Ski and Golf Resort, the duo fired up their grills on a sunny Saturday. The sizzle of meats resonated across the deck as the two charismatic hosts embarked on their culinary journey.
The event was orchestrated with philanthropy in mind, as all proceeds were aimed at benefiting the Michigan Make-A-Wish Foundation. When questioned about his motivation for coming to the Upper Peninsula, Mad Dogg, the vivacious and grilling-savvy half of the duo, mentioned that he had heard about the charity’s involvement. He was excited to share some of his cherished recipes, and be part of the initiative. His favorite recipe to share with the Dickinon County crowd comes with a kick: the jalapeño poppers.
In a passionate statement, Mad Dogg exclaimed, “So we’re taping a television show today, folks are here to watch it. They’re serving burgers and brats and having a great time, and Dickinson County has the best tourism area in the world, it’s God’s country folks, it’s God’s country.” When asked where the duo was headed next in the midwest region, Mad Dogg did not give a clear answer, simply implying his wish to move to the Upper Peninsula.
The festivities were far from one-dimensional, with local bands providing an extra layer of entertainment throughout the day. Kicking off the musical extravaganza was the local opener, Govern, setting the mood for the musical fiesta. The lineup continued with enchanting performances by Safe Sax, Gerry Pirkola, and Melanie Rose, leaving attendees mesmerized by the diverse talent on display.
Rainbow’s End Alpacas were there, with three Alpacas and a booth set up on the hillside of the resort, allowing visitors to feed one of the friendlier animals for an added element of fun.
In the end, the event not only elevated the profile of Dickinson County’s picturesque landscapes, but also showcased the power of communal efforts in making a positive impact. With celebrity grill masters at the helm, and a host of talented musicians providing the soundtrack, “Rock the Mountain” proved to be an unforgettable experience that combined the joy of giving with the delight of shared experiences.
