Press Release

Brown Bag Lecture Presentation by Annessa Carlisle Bob-Lo: An Island in Troubled Waters

Pontiac, Michigan (February 13, 2006) The Office of Arts, Culture & Film presents a lecture by Annessa Carlisle (Troy), author of Bob-Lo: An Island in Troubled Waters, on February 16, 2006, from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the Oakland County Lecture Hall.

For nearly 100 years Bob-Lo Island was a destination for millions arriving via the majestic steamers Ste. Claire and Columbia to what began as simple picnic grounds and grew into a full-fledged amusement park. Today for most Detroiters the word Bob-Lo conjures up memories of boat rides, dancing, roller coasters a day of escape. But the story behind the amusement park was not always idyllic. The park changed hands numerous times, with each owner brining improvements but ultimately suffering financial stress until finally closing in 1993.

Carlisle will discuss her book Bob-Lo: An Island in Troubled Waters and highlight the numerous changes that have swept over the island in the past 120 years including its beginnings as a home to Wyandot Indians, a British military outpost and resort for the Motor City elite. At the center of the book is the story of the last few decades, and specifically events that have impacted the islands longest residing private resident, Dorothy Tresness. Tresness, a spunky 85-year-old has a story that is as turbulent as the island itself. Carlisle chronicles Tresness fight to stay on the land that she has owned since the 1950's even as developers cut off her water, phone and access to transportation. Rather than sell out, Tresness chose to steadfastly stand her ground and the result is an inspiring story of David vs. Goliath proportions.  Copies of Bob-Lo: An Island in Troubled Waters will be available for purchase for $16.00.

The presentation will take place on Thursday, February 16, 2006, from Noon to 1:00 p.m. in the Oakland County Lecture Hall, Building 49 West on the County campus at 1200 N. Telegraph Road, in Pontiac. For further information contact Kristie Everett Zamora, Director of Arts, Culture & Film at (248) 858-0415 or at zamorak@oakgov.com, and please visit www.artsoakland.com

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