Memories of March ice storms and April blizzards melt away today for summer’s unofficial kickoff and Put-in-Bay’s fifth annual Scavenger Hunt & Poker Run. In round one, contestants are given two hours to track down nine clues on the island to score points. “They may have to find a plaque in the park or collect crazy stuff like three-pronged fish hooks,” says organizer Kathy Sopko, who owns the island’s Wisteria Inn. “All of it is historical stuff about the island.” The second round pits competitors in a race from bar to bar. At each stop, they draw cards to amass the best poker hand. At the last bar, Frosty’s, judges rank each hand and award the winner a $300 island getaway package, complete with free lodging, cab fare, and fare on either the Miller Boat Line or Jet Express. “Nobody has to drive; everyone’s on the same footing,” says Sopko. “Some people get it done real quick, and some people stop at a bar, have a drink, and take their time. No one needs an excuse to drink beer up here.” The hunt and run start at 1 this afternoon in front of Frosty’s on Delaware Avenue in Put-in-Bay. Entry fee is $15 for one event and $25 for both. Call 419-285-2421 or visit www.put-in-bay.com
Sat., May 17, 1-6 p.m., 2008
This article appears in May 14-20, 2008.