What do you do if scientists discover that you are living on top of one of the world’s oldest living thing? You start eating it. That’s what the people in the small US town of Crystal Falls, Michigan, are doing.
Several years ago a ‘humungus fungus” (a gigantic mushroom) was discovered in the Crystal Falls area. It weighed about 11 tons and covered 37 acres. Scientists estimated that it was more than 1500 years old. (California’s giant sequoia (redwood) trees are more than 3000 years old, but no one eats them).
“It’s hard to believe that this monster mushroom is growing in Michigan and not Texas,” travel and food writer Maxine Sommers (a Texan) commented in 2003.
“For three days each August tourists and locals alike celebrate the giant fungus phenomenon ... There’s an extensive assortment of activities such as a Buckboard and Horseshoe Tournament; a Tube Float - here’s your chance to float down a river on an old tire tube; or register or the Volley Ball or Golf Tournament.
“If your tastes run to a more sedentary pastime, you can begin the day at the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ Hall for a Pancake Breakfast, then view the Fungus Fest Parade, watch the softball game, or gobble up ice cream at the Ice Cream Social, then toddle off over to the Pie Social for home made pies.
“If you are still able to walk, the Salad Luncheon at St. Mark’s Church offers tasty culinary selections. At the end of the day, pull up a chair and view a fabulous fireworks display event."
