Loony Day is here

Loon callers, it’s time to hone up your calls.The community is going to the birds for the Ely Echo’s 19th annual Loon Calling Contest, this Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. in the courtyard at The Chocolate Moose.Kids and adults may participate with their best imitations of the sounds of the two-legged birds. Past events have drawn large crowds for the coos and trills of the contestants, many of whom return each year to battle for first place in their respective age brackets.The contest is part of the Loony Day celebration. A special section in the North Country Saver will be devoted to Loony Day, and a special loon print will be distributed at participating stores.During the Loon Calling Contest, three random prize drawings are made, with prize packages donated by area businesses.Spectators register at the event and must be present to win the drawings.Loon callers of every age are encouraged to take part. Winners in all three categories - boys, girls and adults (anyone over age 13) - will receive $20 each in Chamber bucks. Contestants may register on the day of the event, and will receive a free ice cream cone, courtesy of The Chocolate Moose.Loony Day is sponsored by the Ely Echo, Piragis Northwoods, the Chocolate Moose, the Ely Chamber of Commerce and participating merchants.