HigHligHts of important Happenings in tHe area 10 then & now Superior View main street in rapid river
11 new york tiMes Crossword Puzzle What’s It all about? (ansWers on page 50)
13 feature Jennifer Champagne locals contInue traIl legacy In MunIsIng
19 sPorting life miChael murray nMu’s all-tIMe leadIng scorer transItIons Into coachIng
21 lookout Point erin elliott Bryan dogs serve veterans, nMu coMMunIty
26 the arts
Jennifer Champagne brauMart theater celebrates 100 years
31 sPorting life KriSti eVanS adaptIve skIIng aIded by foundatIon, nMu professors
Marquette Monthly, published by Model Town Publishing, LLC, located at PO Box 109, Gwinn, MI, 49841, is locally and independently owned. Entire contents
Copyright 2025 by Model Town Publishing. All rights reserved. Permission or use of editorial material in any manner must be obtained in writing from the publishers. Marquette Monthly is published 12 times a year. Subscriptions are $75 per year. Freelance material can be submitted for consideration to editor@marquettemonthly.com. Events can be submitted to calendar@marquettemonthly.com. Ad inquiries can be sent to james@marquettemonthly.com or jane@marquettemonthly.com.
Tom Buchkoe marquettemonthly.com 906-360-2180
About the Cover Artist
Vicki Londerville exhibits her work at Zero Degrees Gallery in Marquette and Downtown Art Place in Ironwood. This piece is entitled “Trail Cam!!” It is an illustration from her upcoming children’s book, “Night on the Chocolay.” Vicki can be reached at vslville@msn.com.
33 the arts
Jennifer DonoVan young artIst WIns audIence choIce aWard
36 loCals
Jim laJoie veteran, country sInger shares hIs favorItes
44 in the outdoors SCot Stewart sWans More coMMon In u.p. locatIons
51 on CaMPus neWs froM u p unIversItIes and colleges
52 Poetry lynn Domina eve asks the serpent for a story
53 suPerior reads ViCtor r. VolKman “fIve seasons on steel decks” by andres pIchette
54 the sPirit of water lanni lantto dandelions on tHe lawn of empire
55 out & about erin elliott Bryan & Carrie uSher March events, MusIc, art, MuseuMs and support groups
city notes
Players de Noc to stage ‘Chicago’ at Bonifas in Escanaba Players de Noc will perform “Chicago” at the Bonifas Fine Arts Center in Escanaba. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 28, and March 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8; a matinee performance will take place at 1:30 p.m. on March 2.
Tickets are $17; visit playersdenoc. org for details.
MSU Extension offers mindfulness, sleep education
Michigan State University Extension will present “Mindfulness for Better Sleep,” a free online program, at 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, March 4 through April 8, via Zoom. This series includes Mindfulness and the Sleep Education for Everyone program.
Sessions will cover the relationship between pain and sleep, sleep basics, sleep hygiene, stimulus control therapy, mindfulness, physical activity and sleep myths. For details and to register, contact Anita at 906-360-9732, or visit events.anr.msu.edu/mindsleep2025march.
MRHC program offers talk about the steamer Arlington Scuba diver and historian Dan Fountain will share the story of the Arlington in a presentation titled “He Went Down with His Ship: Captain Burke and the Steamer Arlington” at 6:30 p.m. on March 5 at the Marquette Regional History Center.
In the summer of 2023, a group of shipwreck hunters set out for the middle of Lake Superior and unexpectedly found an intact steel steamer in deep water. There is a $5 suggested donation.
For details, call 906-226-3571 or visit marquettehistory.org.
League
of Women Voters to meet March 5 in Marquette
The League of Women Voters of Marquette County will hold its next general membership meeting at 6:45 p.m. on March 5 in Studio 1 on the lower level of the Peter White Public Library in Marquette. Social time will begin at 6:30 p.m.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
All community members are welcome to attend.
For details, email lwvmqtco@
gmail.com. In case of inclement weather, visit lwvmqt.org to confirm if the meeting will take place live or via Zoom.
Seney Wildlife Refuge’s film festival begins March 6
Friends of Seney National Wildlife Refuge will host the 2025 Winter Film Festival, a series of free, family-friendly nature films that showcase the beauty and importance of the natural world.
The films for this year’s festival will be “Linking Land and Lakes: Protecting the Great Lakes’ Coastal Wetlands” on March 6, “Magic of the Snowy Owl” on March 13 and “Hummingbirds: Magic in the Air” on March 20.
Screenings will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Pine Performance Center in Curtis. Seney Refuge rangers will be on hand to answer questions after each film. Admission is free and concessions will be available by donation. For details, contact Barb Frazier at friends@friendsofseney.org.
Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance to meet March 12
ScotStewart will present “Owls: Silent Hunters of the Night” at the next meeting of the Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance at 7 p.m. on March 12 in the Shiras Room of the Peter White Public Library in Marquette. This owl program will take a look at the different species of owls found in Michigan and a few others, comparing appearances, overall ranges, special features and some of their visits to the U.P., including some that have been in the area this winter.
Stewart is a local writer, photographer and educator and is part of the MooseWood Nature Center. For details, visit laughingwhitefishbirdalliance.com.
NMU’s Diversity Common Reader program continues
The NMU Center for Native American Studies is presenting a series of conversations to support the annual Diversity Common Reader program. This year’s selection is the 2017 award-winning book “As We Have Always Done” by Ojibwe author Leanne Simpson.
Each chapter explores distinct themes that explore a range of subjects, such as resurgence, self-determination and the significance of living with the Earth.
Erika Greeley, assistant director of admissions, will discuss Chapter 5:
Anti-Capitalism at 6 p.m. on March 13 in the Whitman Hall Commons at NMU; Dr. April Lindala, professor of Native American Studies, and Tracy Wascom, professor of art and design, will discuss Chapter 11: Art as Resurgence at 11 a.m. on March 24 in Room 90 of NMU’s Art and Design building; Dr. Petra Hendrickson, assistant professor of political science, will discuss Chapter 4: and Internationalism at 4:30 p.m. on March 27 in the Whitman Hall Commons.
Dr. Jacquie Medina, professor in the School of Health and Human Performance, and graduate student Andie Balenger will discuss Chapter 9: Land as Pedagogy at 4:30 p.m. on April 3 in the Whitman Hall Commons. Dr. Lesley Larkin, professor of English, will discuss Chapter 12: Constellations of Coresistance at 7 p.m. on April 10 in the Whitman Hall Commons.
All the conversations are free and open to all. For details, call 906-2271397 or visit nmu.edu/dcrp/home.
U.P. Notable Book Club to discuss ‘Lumberjack’
The Crystal Falls Community District Library in partnership with the U.P. Publishers and Authors Association (UPPAA) will host its next event with winners of the U.P. Notable Book List.
Ann McGlothlin Weller and Lynn McGlothlin Emerick, the granddaughters of author William S. Crowe, will discuss Crowe’s “Lumberjack: Inside an Era in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan — 70th Anniversary Edition,” which focuses on the timber industry of the Manistique region.
The event will take place at 7 p.m. on March 13 via Zoom; contact Evelyn Gathu in advance at egathu@crystalfallslibrary.org or 906-875-3344.
Short videos about the book can also be found at LumberjackBook. com. For details about the U.P. Notable Book list, U.P. Book Review and UPPAA, visit UPNotable.com.
Friends of PWPL’s used book, media sale scheduled
The Friends of Peter White Public Library will host its winter used book and media sale from March 13 to 15 in the Community Room of the library in Marquette.
The presale will run from 5 to 8 p.m. on March 13; admission will be $5. The sale will run from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 14; admission is free.
On March 15, there will be a halfprice sale from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; the $5 bag sale will run from 1:45 to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
For details, call 906-228-9510 or visit pwpl.info.
Crystal Theatre announces ‘Gem of a Season’
The curtain will rise on the 2025
“Gem of a Season” beginning March 15 at Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls.
The season starts with a Celtic trio, The Knockabouts, on March 15. “Last Date: The Floyd Cramer Story,” featuring pianist Jason Coleman celebrating the music made famous by his grandfather, Hall of Fame artist Floyd Cramer, will take place on April 12.
The Gem Season also includes the Blooze Brothers Band, the Nashville Hitmen, Sixtiesmania, Chico Sanchez and the Make-Believe Spurs.
A premium event featuring the Verve Pipe will take place May 17.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils return on their farewell tour as the “Legend” performer. Also returning is the Missoula Children’s Theatre.
The finale will take place on Oct. 16 featuring “AbbaMania,” a rock musical featuring 21 of ABBA’s hits with the choreography, costume changes and big studio sound. For details, visit thecrystaltheatre.org or call 906-875-3208.
Third annual Superior MakerFest set for March 15
Superior Fab Lab will host Superior MakerFest 2025 from noon to 5 p.m. on March 15 at Houghton High School. The third annual event will bring together a community of creators, inventors and tinkerers from across the U.P.
This year’s theme, “Mosaic of Makers,” will celebrate the diversity of talent, skills and ideas that shape the region’s inventive spirit. All are welcome to see featured makers and organizations, presentations, competitions and activities. The event is free and open to the public. For details, visit SuperiorFabLab.com.
Art Association to host March Art Talk
The Lake Superior Art Association will host an Art Talk titled “Taking Risks and Being Bold with Your Art” at 6:30 p.m. on March 18 in Studio 2 of the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.
Contemporary landscape artist Megan Bjork, fiber artist Sandy Weber and abstract artist Penney Mellon will talk about their inspirations, describe their processes and share how taking risks can take art to the next level.
To demonstrate the idea of “take risks and go bold,” the artists challenged each other to create art for this talk using a bold and risky color palette.
The resulting artwork will be pre-
sented at the Art Talk. For details, visit lakesuperiorartassociation.org.
Lasers on the Ore Dock returns March 20-22
Due to its success during the holiday season, Lasers on the Ore Dock will debut monthly shows in 2025. Beginning approximately 20 minutes after sunset on select Thursdays through Saturdays, the light display will illuminate the Lower Harbor Ore Dock in Marquette.
The first shows of the year will take place March 20 through 22. Each month will feature new themes, guest artists and unique experiences. Spectators can view the show from Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park, along the Lake Superior shoreline or from their vehicles. For details, visit travelmarquette.com.
Vinyl record show to take place at Ore Dock Brewing
Afour-day vinyl record show will take place from noon to 11 p.m. March 27 through 30 in the second-floor community room at Ore Dock Brewing Company in Marquette. All are welcome at this free, all-ages event presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club.
The show will feature thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts. Attendees can also talk about trading old records and tapes for new favorites, or finding an unused media collection a new home. Sunday’s events will include a free cartoon screening and six rounds of popular culture trivia. For details, call 906-373-6183.
Artists are invited to submit artwork for consideration as the poster image of Downtown Marquette’s 2025 Blueberry Festival.
The winning design will be selected based on a combined score from public online voting and evaluations by a panel of judges. The winner will receive a $400 cash prize along with other perks leading up to the festival.
All entries will be displayed in May at the Peter White Public Library to allow voters to view and cast their votes in person.
The deadline for submissions is 4 p.m. on April 25 and entries must be received at the Downtown Marquette office at 337 W. Washington St. For submission guidelines and specifications, visit downtownmarquette.org.
ORIAN announces first U.P. Outdoor Summit
TheOutdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network (ORIAN) announced plans for its first U.P. Outdoor Summit on May 16 in Innovation Hall at NMU’s Jacobetti Complex.
This event will feature keynote presentations, outdoor innovation demos, open space discussions, networking opportunities, a post-event social hour and two in-depth study presentations conducted by TIP Strategies and UPland. Tickets are available March 12; visit UPOutdoor.org for details.
City of Marquette announces final year of Art Week
The City of Marquette Office of Arts and Culture is now accepting project proposals for the 10th annual and final City of Marquette Art Week, scheduled for June 23 through 28. Local artists, organizations and businesses are invited to participate in the week-long celebration, that includes free concerts, workshops, performances, exhibits and more.
Art Week 2025 will center on the theme of “Stories” and artists and organizers are encouraged to submit projects that share a meaningful narrative that explores the community— whether personal, historical, cultural or imaginative. Proposals may also revisit past successful Art Week projects to honor the festival’s legacy. For details, visit mqtcompass.com/ artweek or call 906-228-0472.
Parade plans announced for Marquette’s July 4 festivities
The Marquette Kiwanis Club has announced its 30th year of sponsoring the Marquette July 4 parade,
what are known as “oranges of the North”?
So-called by the Norwegians, the humble rutabaga (combination of a turnip and cabbage) raised by Scandinavians and Belgians, found that the climate and soil of the U.P. were ideal for its cultivation. Here it thrived; however, today most U.P. rutabagas are imported from Canada.
Submitted by Dr. Russell M. Magnaghi, history professor emeritus of NMU and author of several books, including “Upper Peninsula Beer: A History of Brewing Above the Bridge.”
which will begin at 2 p.m. at the intersection of McClellan Avenue and West Washington Street.
Community members can nominate someone to be the Parade Marshall, businesses can apply to be one of the parade’s Firecracker Sponsors or those wishing to enter a float can download the online application form.
For details, visit marquettefourth. com/parade.
Artists sought for 2026 Public Gallery Program
The City of Marquette Office of Arts and Culture and Peter White Public Library invite artists to submit proposals for the 2026 Public Gallery Program. This collaborative program provides formal exhibit space for local and regional artists in the Deo Gallery and Huron Mountain Club Gallery, which feature bimonthly rotating exhibits showcasing a diverse range of professional and community art.
There is no fee to apply and each applicant may submit only one proposal. The deadline for submissions is midnight on March 16. Applications are available at each gallery, the PWPL Circulation Desk and the City of Marquette Arts and Culture Office, or can be downloaded online.
For details, visit mqtcompass.com/ public-gallery-program.
Deadline set for March 28 for community impact grants
The Community Foundation of Marquette County invites local nonprofit organizations to apply for grant funding for projects and programs that address community challenges and opportunities within Marquette County.
Applications are due March 28. For details or to apply, visit cfofmc.org.
SHF launches AED program, opens new grant cycle
The Superior Health Foundation (SHF) launched its new automat-
Negaunee native to premier new film at MRHC
TheMarquette Regional History Center will host Negaunee native and NMU graduate Dan Aho at 6:30 p.m. on March 19 for a viewing and meet and greet of his new film “My Sister.”
Aho seems to have been destined for the stage. “I was doing some standup and found my way to the theater department when I was at NMU,” Aho said. It was a time that shaped who he would become, and his theater degree led to Chicago after graduation.
“It was quite the path,” Aho said. His plan was to go to New York after graduation with a few friends. To make that possible, and to take a bite out of his college loans, Aho worked the summer at Mackinac Island.
“As it often happens, you meet a significant other…” Aho said. “... for me it was a girl from Ireland.” After a few more summers dealing with visas and getting married, the couple decided to move to Chicago.
Aho studied at Second City, the Improv Olympics and the Annoyance Theatre and continued to pursue acting around the city. For the next seven years, he picked up commercial jobs and worked on whatever films came to town. From there, Aho moved to Los Angeles and spent the next 13 years acting, writing and producing content there. But as is familiar to any native Yooper, there was a call to home.
“I always missed the Upper Peninsula,” Aho said. “The things I wanted to do professionally weren’t really possible there, but being away made me appreciate it more.”
His newest project, “My Sister,” is a culmination of his work up to this point. “It was a short film script I wrote four or five years ago,” Aho
said. “You have to write what you know. I had a situation in my family where things got really bad with an addict. You have to draw a line in the sand where you say ‘I can’t do this anymore; you’re not listening to anybody.’ That was the premise.”
Aho said while the situation is familiar, the movie is not about his actual sister. The story was important to him, though, and it survived three attempts to produce it, without it coming fruition.
“It was always on my mind,” Aho said. When he moved back to Chicago last year, he began to think about filming it in the Midwest, and the Upper Peninsula in particular.
“I reached out to Red (Jessica Bays) and Han (Numinen), the two actresses in the film, and reworked the script with this location in mind,” he said. “It gave the story a different, and probably better, context.” Aho came to the U.P. to film.
“We had two days scheduled,” Aho said. “Both days were supposed to be overcast. But I guess being away from the U.P. for a while I forgot how fast the weather can
change. The sun was so intense one day when we were filming by Lake Superior that I had decided to use it as part of the story.”
Aho’s vision was only enhanced by the setting he chose. “I wanted to capture nature in the U.P. while telling this story about addiction,” Aho said. “None of us are exempt from that sort of thing. We’ve become a lot more comfortable talking about it as a society, so we’re all more aware of it. Everyone seems to know someone who has struggled or has been touched by addiction.”
The combination of human nature and the natural world are essential to the story.
“We spent a lot of time looking at the lake, seeing the relentlessness of the waves,” Aho said. “I wanted to catch the changing of the leaves to give the idea that this character who has suffered can also change.”
Tickets for the showing are $20 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at the Marquette Regional History Center or online at marquettehistory.org.
—Brad Gischia
ed external defibrillator (AED) program and the opening of the Care Access Fund grant cycle.
SHF’s new AED program will help U.P. nonprofit organizations acquire the life-saving equipment. Any tax-exempt organization that has or uses public space can submit a request for an AED through the SHF grants portal. SHF has 30 portable AEDs to give out in 2025, which will be disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, visit superiorhealthfoundation.org/grants/aed-program.
SHF’s 2025 Care Access Fund grant cycle, which provides funding to nonprofit organizations offering support for the medical and healthcare needs of uninsured, underinsured and medically vulnerable residents in the U.P., is now open.
Applications must be received by March 27 and the awards will be announced in May.
For details and to apply, visit superiorhealthfoundation.org/grants/indigent-care-grants.
Keweenaw fund to enhance early childhood education
The Keweenaw Community Foundation, with the Copper Country Great Start Collaborative, launched the Great Start Early Childhood Fund, a community-based initiative that will support early childhood programs and services in Baraga, Houghton and Keweenaw counties.
The new fund follows the foundation’s support last year of Start Small, a free mentoring program to help create in-home childcare businesses to
Bradford Veley is a freelance cartoonist, illustrator and farmer in the U.P. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram and at bradveley.com.
address a shortage of childcare options in its coverage region.
The application deadline is March 16. For details, visit keweenawcommunityfoundation.org/spring-granting.
Hospital study to evaluate community health needs
UPHealth System – Marquette, in collaboration with other local health professionals and stakeholders, is launching a comprehensive study to identify public health needs, goals, objectives and priorities. Known as the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), the study will provide a foundation for improving the health of each community member.
In April, a community focus group will be conducted to seek input from local residents. Community members, physicians and hospital employees
will be surveyed about local health issues and what changes they would like to see in the community.
The assessment is expected to be finalized by the end of May. For details, visit uphealthsystem.com/community-health-needs-survey.
United Way launches free tax service in Marquette County United Way of Marquette County continues to offer its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program — free tax preparation services to low- to moderate-income individuals and families in Marquette County.
The VITA program is staffed by IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers and is available to individuals with annual incomes of roughly $67,000 or less, as well as persons with disabilities and limited English-speaking taxpayers needing assistance.
For details or to sign up, visit uwmqt.org or call 906-226-8171.
‘Wardens,’ featuring Michigan DNR, begins season
The Outdoor Channel series “Wardens” has highlighted the work of DNR conservation officers and other DNR employees, providing an inside look at what staff throughout the department does in Michigan.
The DNR continues its partnership with the channel on production of the 2025 season of “Wardens.” New episodes air at 9 p.m. EST on Fridays on the Outdoor Channel. WLUC-TV6 continues to air episodes of the show.
Ojibwa Casinos to become smoke-free establishments
Ojibwa Casino Baraga and Marquette have announced that all casino venues, including restaurants and hotel, will be designated smokefree and vape-free, effective March 24. This change applies to the entirety of Ojibwa Casino Baraga and Marquette, including Superior Eats, the Pressbox and the Baraga Hotel.
The Escanaba Downtown Development Authority is developing a beautification committee.
The DDA is looking for volunteers to serve on the committee, which will determine how to raise funds to purchase and water hanging baskets. The committee will also address the floral pots and Christmas garland on Ludington Street, as well as murals and
downtown Christmas lighting. For details, call Craig at 906-789-8696.
U.P. counties announce changes in glass recycling
Glass is no longer accepted in single stream recycling anywhere in Houghton or Keweenaw counties, according to the Copper Country Recycling Initiative. For details, visit coppercountryrecycling.com.
It was explained by officials at the Marquette Recycling Facility, which processes the recycling, that glass included in single stream recycling bins inevitably breaks. Once the broken glass enters the facility, it either gets screened out with other small objects and landfilled, or contaminates the paper and cardboard that is being recycled.
Separated glass can be dropped off free of charge at Recycle 906 in Marquette; visit recycle906.com or call 906-249-4125 for details.
Marquette Music Scene honors Hall of Fame inductees
Marquette Music Scene and Marquette Music Hall of Fame recently celebrated the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, honoring David Aho, Rick Bissonette, Michael Cordone, Dale Carrier, Danny Collins, Brandon Nelson, Michael Nowlin, Paul Racine, Daniel Truckey, Gene Uuro Lance Whitfield and Julie Williams.
They also honored the following musicians posthumously: Alfred Burt, Harold Kellen, Rob Parkonnen, Matthew Rich, Paul Rintala, Craig
Gilchrist talks jobs in Houghton County
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II recently traveled to the U.P. to announce two expansion projects in Houghton County representing 90 new jobs and more than $10 million in capital investment. Great Lakes Sound and Vibration is expanding its operation in Franklin Township to support existing and future contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense, and Loukus Technologies in Calumet is growing its operations to support the company’s ability to increase production capacity to meet rising demand in the defense and energy sectors.
Simons, James Smeberg and Nancy (Redfern) Zimmerman.
Local business news…in brief
• Visit Keweenaw’s Executive Director Brad Barnett was named vice president of the Michigan Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus, a collective of destination marketing organizations that advocate for the travel industry and provide leadership to its members.
• Kim Kee, a CranioSacral ther-
apist in Marquette, has retired and transferred her 20-year practice to Trinity Burdick; Burdick is in private practice on the fifth floor of the Old City Hall building at 220 W. Washington St., and is accepting new clients by calling 906-458-6000.
• UP Health System – Bell has hired Dr. Elizabeth Cousineau, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, to its Women’s Care team; Cousineau provides labor and delivery, routine gynecological care, con-
traception, family planning, infertility treatments, menopausal management and minimally invasive surgical procedures.
• UP Health System – Marquette has welcomed Emilee Syrjala, MSN, NP-C to its Cancer Center team; she specializes in supportive care for cancer patients undergoing radiation.
• The Baraga County Chamber of Commerce is participating in the newly formed L’Anse Area Community Development Corporation, which is focused on accelerating housing development in the L’Anse area. Visit keweenawbay.org/edc/cdc for details.
• Jamie Glenn of Marquette has been appointed to serve on Michigan’s Barrier Free Design Board; Glenn is an ADA coordinator and accessibility advocate at Superior Alliance for Independent Living (SAIL).
• Gov. Whitmer appointed Rebecca Bartholomew of Gladstone to the Michigan Board of Massage Therapy; Bartholomew is the owner of Human Anatomy Academy in Escanaba and a licensed massage therapist.
• The Superior Health Foundation announced Beacon House and Trillium House as its nonprofit partners for its 2025 Gala. MM
HOW TO SUBMIT TO CITY NOTES
The deadline for event and press release submissions for City Notes is the 10th day of the month prior to publication. Send your releases to editor@marquettemonthly.com.
Photos provided by Superior View Studios, located in Art of Framing, 149 W. Washington Street Marquette viewsofthepast.com
This view of Downtown Rapid River in the 1940s was a popular postcard.
Main Street in Rapid River is still home to many of the same buildings. Businesses such as Jack’s Restaurant have been around since 1943.
By RIcH KATz & Jeff cHen
1 Dressed (in)
5 Facial cream amount
8 Harriet Tubman was one for the Union
11 Place in a pyramid, say 17 Site of the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial
18 Head of a noted animal rescue project
20 Prospectors’ targets
22 ‘‘Take me to your ____’’ (alien demand)
23 TV’s ‘‘Search for the Titanic,’’ for one?
26 Fifth-century conqueror who tried (and failed!) to take Rome 27 Charcuterie assortment
28 It’s hard to see
Champagne name
Chestnuts
35 Instructions for slaying Dracula?
38 Tibetan beasts
40 Realm 41 Concern in data transmission 42 Shoppers’ conveniences
46 Tributary of the Colorado River
48 Bit of Rasta headwear
49 Tribe along the Missouri River
51 Broadway offering titled with dots and dashes?
54 Ones moving with the music?
58 High-protein diet
59 Nat ____ (channel)
60 Prove untrue
63 Farm call
64 Belfry locale
67 Indian dish featuring potatoes and cauliflower
69 Rear
70 TED Talk about neuropsychology?
73 Syllables of reproof
75 ‘‘So is this our plan or not?’’
76 Ones whistling while they work?
79 ‘‘May Day is ____ Day in Hawaii’’ (holiday slogan)
80 Like tightwads
81 Poetic tribute
83 Lose ground, say
84 Scout’s container
86 U-Haul ad?
89 Sister of Hades
90 Picture of Pluto, for instance
92 Org. holding an annual basketball championship since 1939
93 Metaphorical bit of progress
94 Spiced quaff
96 Bud after Jack, perhaps?
99 ____ mind
101 Email thread with a ‘‘Donate now!’’ message?
104 ‘‘Chow time!’’
109 Chuck
110 ‘‘I solemnly swear . .,’’ for one
111 Longtime restaurant critic ____ Greene
113 Feature of the Niña, but not the Pinta
114 Milan fashion house
116 Giddiness at completing this crossword puzzle?
37 Partner of dagger
Hardly a romp 42 Wrigglers by the Nile 43 ‘‘Like ____,’’ rap hit fueling the Drake/Kendrick Lamar beef of 2024
44 Fabric similar to suede
45 ____ week (TV ratings period)
47 Cover for a hardwood floor
50 This evening, in commercialese
52 Climber’s aid
53 Alone
55 What face emojis with hearts for eyes mean
56 Long, long time
57 Roll of green
60 Harmonic R&B subgenre
61 Goaded
62 When doubled, chocolate treat
65 Journalist Holt
66 Herbal supplement used as a cold remedy
68 Condition that may involve repetitive behaviors, for short
69 Dragster
71 Term of endearment
72 It’s a thing
73 R&B trio with the 1999 No. 1 hit ‘‘No Scrubs’’
74 Something blue that follows Black or Red
77 Adam’s apple locale
78 Spanish muralist whose ‘‘American Progress’’ is in the lobby of 30 Rockefeller Plaza
120 Flattened, in a way
121 Contribution to a pot
122 Reason someone might go streaking
123 To be, in Gay Paree
124 Common sonata enders
125 Pluto, e.g.
126 Airer of the game show ‘‘The Cube’’
127 Off to someone’s inbox
1 Pink drink, for short 2 Place for a flag pin
Up 4 Cable channels?
5 It’s stranded in a cell 6 Early I.S.P. 7 Spike 8 Bad thing to end on 9 Lead-in to approval 10 Polite affirmation
11 Put over the moon
12 Something that, if you cut a hole in it, actually has fewer holes than before 13 Inked up 14 Just awful
15 Offerings in some fruit bowls
16 Actor Benjamin of ‘‘Miss Congeniality’’ 19 Position of authority 21 Vodka brand, informally 24 ‘‘My goodness!’’
Toy inventor with a back-
80 Welcome at the door
82 Imprint, as a lasting memory
85 Home of Si Racha, where the hot sauce was invented
86 Did some winter riding
87 The third one is often dangerous
88 Roof overhang
90 Computers’ process of storing data
91 Superlative suffix
94 Cylindrical Mexican pastry
95 Actor Mark of ‘‘NCIS’’
97 Yoga type
98 Crowd noise
100 ‘‘Oh, you’re in on this, too?’’
101 Be in charge of, as a committee
102 Substances in sports scandals, familiarly
103 Require
105 Listings on a blogroll
106 In the 1%
107 Decorate
108 Believe it!
112 It’s passed on the way to the bar, for short
115 Keanu’s role in ‘‘The Matrix’’
117 Classic muscle car
118 Ball
119 Tous ____ jours (every day, in French)
feature
Trailblazer extraordinaire
Rhonda Lassila carries legacy on Munising trails
By Jennifer Champagne
When Rhonda Lassila sets out on Munising’s trails, her every step carries the weight of purpose and a legacy forged through grit and shared passion. As president of the Munising Bay Trail Network (MBTN), Lassila has played a pivotal role in shaping the region into a thriving center for connectivity and outdoor recreation.
Her determination, born from personal tragedy, drives a mission to honor her late father, James Howard, whose life and love for biking left an indelible mark on her. Since his passing in a biking accident in 2009, Lassila has transformed loss into a relentless pursuit of progress for her community.
“I feel like I have both his passion and mine driving me,” Lassila said. “He loved these trails, and everything I do here feels like I’m keeping his legacy alive.”
That legacy is both expansive and impressive. The MBTN has developed more than 50 miles of trails across the region, creating a diverse landscape for hikers, snowshoers, cross-country skiers, mountain bikers, fat-tire bikes and trail runners alike. These include the Valley Spur Single Track network, known for its fun and flowy loops like Just Beechy and Hemlock Valley; Bruno’s Run, a scenic 13-mile route blending history and adventure; and the Munising Mountain Bike Park, featuring unique trails such as Superior Air, Rock On and Da Play Zone.
The network also connects with Munising Township’s McQuisten Recreation Area, offering breathtaking views and additional biking options. Trails like Pine Line, recently completed, aim to link these areas, further advancing MBTN’s mission of fostering physical and economic health while connecting Munising and its surrounding communities through accessible, multi-use trails. This robust system reflects not just miles of trails but years of community effort and a commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation
Founded in 2012, MBTN became an official non-profit in 2013. It quickly began cultivating partnerships with
key organizations like the U.S. Forest Service (Hiawatha National Forest), the City of Munising and the Munising Visitors Bureau. These partnerships laid the foundation for the organization’s most successful projects.
The Gateway Loop, one of its earliest achievements, was funded by a $194,100 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant. MBTN volunteers raised an additional $25,700 and contributed significant in-kind labor.
“The Gateway Loop was a turning point for us,” Lassila said. “It showed what we could accomplish when the community came together.”
Valley Spur, a crown jewel of the Hiawatha National Forest (HNF),
now boasts more than 27 miles of singletrack trails all within the Valley Spur recreation area of the HNF, including the Hemlock Valley Loop, Just Beechy, Cedar Streak and the beginner-friendly Kids Loop — Doing Oak Eh. Lassila said the important thing is community involvement.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of MBTN,” she said. “It takes a team to maintain trails this extensive.”
Seasonal cleanups often involve tasks as diverse as removing fallen trees, clearing debris and repairing washed-out sections of trail. Certified chainsaw operators, known as “sawyers,” are integral to this effort.
Bruno’s Run is another highlight.
Its winding paths offer breathtaking views of McKeever Lake, Petes Lake and other natural landmarks. Initially built by the Forest Service as a hiking route, the trail was later rerouted to address unsustainable sections and transformed into a mountain biking loop. Additionally, the trail passes through two campgrounds, Pete’s Lake and Widewaters, adding convenience for outdoor enthusiasts. MBTN has worked tirelessly to maintain the trail for mountain biking, turning it into a regional favorite.
The Munising Mountain Bike Park, meanwhile, offers technical challenges like the Superior Air, Rock On! and Zach’s Zip trails. Lassila speaks with pride about these achievements. “It’s amazing to see riders of all skill levels enjoying what we’ve built,” she said. “This park is for everyone.”
The network’s impact extends far beyond recreation. “We see more bikes on cars stopping to stay and explore, not just passing through,” said Cori-Ann Cearley, executive director of the Munising Visitors Bureau. Trail-related events, such as the Pictured Rocks Road Race, bring hundreds of participants and their families to the area, boosting local businesses. In 2023, the race generated nearly $14,000 in profits, MBTN’s largest fundraising success to date.
Mark Bender, recreation technician for the Hiawatha National Forest, sees the MBTN as a crucial partner in advancing outdoor recreation and connecting the community. “Rhonda has been a catalyst for this project and partnership. She is dedicated to the Munising area and brings a big-picture view of the possibilities for the trails,” Bender said. He praised her commitment as an avid mountain biker who invests significant time and effort, successfully rallying diverse teams to get the work done on the ground.
Pointing to the collaboration between the U.S. Forest Service and MBTN, Bender said, “The Hiawatha National Forest brings technical expertise to the table, helping with trail design, groundwork, and navigating the NEPA process to ensure all forest resources are protected. MBTN complements this by handling much of the
The Valley Spur Single Track network is known for its fun and flowy loops.
(Photo courtesy of Munising Bay Trail Network)
trail building, maintenance and community outreach, making the partnership a strong one.”
Bender also touched on the challenges and opportunities posed by the growing popularity of the trails. “These trails are popular now and are only getting more so as time goes on,” he said. “The challenges and opportunities both stem from that.” Increased usage requires more maintenance resources, but it also strengthens community ties. “Working on these trails gives us the chance to learn from people like Rhonda and engage with the local community in meaningful ways. It’s not just about recreation — it’s about creating a space for exercise, health and an experience that supports the local economy,” Bender said.
Brenda Walther, owner of Alger Falls Motel, has witnessed the transformative impact of the trail network on the local community and economy. She attributes much of the progress to Lassila’s leadership. “Rhonda’s energy and dedication are unmatched,” Walther said. “She’s a go-getter who doesn’t just talk about getting things done — she makes it happen.” Walther said Lassila has elevated Munising’s profile as a destination for out-
door recreation, especially mountain biking.
Walther has seen firsthand how MBTN has become a draw for tourists. “Every time I go by the trails, I’m surprised by how many people are out there. It’s clear that mountain biking has grown here, and it’s bringing more visitors to the area,” she said. Although she no longer tracks bookings as closely, Walther noted that she’s observed an increase in people visiting specifically for the trails. “It’s not just about tourism,” she said. “It’s about giving locals something to take pride in and creating spaces where people want to spend their time.”
The trail system, which started with humble beginnings, has grown significantly under Lassila’s guidance. Walther acknowledged that funding and building resources were significant challenges early on, but Lassila’s ability to navigate these obstacles and secure support has been remarkable. “She became an expert grant writer out of necessity, juggling her work at the paper mill while still dedicating countless hours to MBTN,” Walther said. “Now that she’s retired, it’s like she’s taken on a full-time job with the trails. That’s how much she cares
Rhonda Lassila got her first bike when she was going into seventh grade, and the rest is history. (Photo courtesy of April Howard)
about making this a success.”
Establishing MBTN wasn’t without hurdles. Lassila vividly recalled the devastation when hand-built trails in the City of Munising were destroyed during a logging operation in 2014. “I think I literally cried when I went up there and saw it,” she said. The sandy soil and treetops scattered across the area made repairs impossible by hand.
Determined to turn the setback into an opportunity, Lassila and her team collaborated with their trail builder from Valley Spur to clean up the damage and create something new. “We cried, went to the city and worked with our trail builder, who gave us a plan to clean up the mess and rebuild,” she said.
The challenge led to a reimagined vision: the development of the Munising Mountain Bike Park. “Our trail builder suggested we build a bike park. With the wide-open canopy and elevation, it was the perfect opportunity,” Lassila said.
The park became a reality with features like a jump line trail, a skills park, and a rebuilt version of the original trail. “We turned apples into applesauce,” Lassila said with a smile Valley Spur, a beloved trail system in Alger County, whose winter trails are maintained by the Friends of Valley Spur who previously worked under a permit held with the Noque-
manon Trail Network (NTN). The permit is now undergoing changes to fall under MBTN. This move ensures the trail system’s long-term sustainability and growth, granting Valley Spur year-round operations aligning with MBTN’s mission to create sustainable, multi-use trails.
“This move is about ensuring that Valley Spur continues to thrive as a hub for recreation in Alger County. Rhonda and her team bring not only the passion, but also the expertise needed to maintain and grow this incredible resource,” said Lori Holsworth, executive director of NTN. Holsworth described the transition as a strong collaboration between organizations, reflecting their shared commitment to trail stewardship. “Partnerships like this are what make trail networks sustainable,” she said. “It’s a big win for the community and for the broader recreation landscape in the Upper Peninsula.”
Valley Spur operates under a special-use permit with the U.S. Forest Service. Currently transitioning to fall under the umbrella of the Munising Bay Trail Network’s nonprofit status, the Friends of Valley Spur continue to manage the trail system. The group owns all the grooming equipment and employs groomer John Cromell to maintain the trails during the winter, while all other operations, including
Ladies “shred” weekend offered fun in the bike park. (Photo courtesy of Munising Bay Trail Network)
trail maintenance and event coordination, are carried out by dedicated volunteers.
The story of Valley Spur began in the early 1980s, when the U.S. Forest Service developed the trails to promote outdoor recreation. By the early 2000s, financial constraints led to the formation of the Friends of Valley Spur, a nonprofit group that stepped in to ensure the trails’ upkeep. Today, Valley Spur remains a cherished destination for cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, and year-round outdoor adventures, thanks to the collaborative efforts of MBTN, the Forest Service, and its passionate volunteers. “About 20 years ago, the Forest Service began pulling back, and we had to step up,” said Peggy Carberry, a long-time member and former president of the Friends of Valley Spur. In 2023, Valley Spur officially joined MBTN, a transition Carberry described as driven by a shared vision to make outdoor sports a cornerstone of Alger County’s identity.
“Rhonda and her group approached us about adding singletrack mountain bike trails,” Carberry said. “At first, there were concerns about whether they’d follow through, but I knew Rhonda would make it happen — she’s a force to be reckoned with.”
Under MBTN’s leadership, the trail system has expanded to include new features and continues to serve as a hub for hikers, bikers, and snowshoers alike. Valley Spur’s integration into MBTN marks a new chapter for the trail system, ensuring its contin-
ued growth as a destination for recreation and a source of pride for the local community.
Valley Spur’s winter transformation offers opportunities for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts, including those with furry companions. Dogs are welcome exclusively on the Wyman Pines Loop, a groomed snow biking trail. This loop also accommodates snowshoers and cross-country skiers. In non-winter months, dogs are allowed on all Valley Spur Trails, providing ample opportunities for exploring the area’s scenic beauty yearround.
“We use specialized equipment like a snow dog, and a narrow grooming device pulled by a snowmobile to create single-track snow paths,” Lassila said. This meticulous effort is similar to the cross-country ski trail grooming process, but is specifically tailored to accommodate bikes.
“It’s incredible to see people out there even in the dead of winter, enjoying the same trails in a completely new way,” she said.
In addition to this transition, MBTN has secured grants, such as the USDA Rural Business Development Grant, which funded a trail-building machine. This equipment enables more sustainable construction, reduces the time required to build trails, and minimizes the need for manual labor. “We’re building for the future,” Peggy Carberry said. “We had never seen anything like it — trail volunteers, the Forest Service and Friends of Valley Spur all working together on one
Rhonda and her dad, James Howard, at the first bike race they did — Tour Da Woods in 2004. (Photo courtesy of April Howard)
project, all because of Rhonda’s leadership. It was phenomenal.”
Carberry fondly recalled riding alongside Lassila’s father during the Tour da Woods Race.
“Back when the race was happening, it was Ricky Runset, Rhonda’s dad and me. The three of us would stick together through the whole 30mile race, cheering each other on,” she said. Reflecting on his character, Carberry added, “He’d be out of his mind with pride to see what Rhonda has accomplished.” She described him as warm and persistent — a perfect match for the trails they cherished.
Kris Tidd, a dedicated MBTN volunteer and close friend and riding partner of Lassila, reflected on Rhonda’s boundless energy and dedication to the trail network. “She’s like the Energizer Bunny — she never stops,” Tidd said. “Her passion is unmatched, and she doesn’t take no for an answer. That’s exactly what these trails needed to thrive.”
As an MBTN volunteer, Kris has witnessed Lassila’s tireless efforts firsthand. “The trail system has grown immensely, and 90 percent of that is due to Rhonda. She’s been the driving force behind it all,” she said. From early races to developing trails and securing grants, Rhonda has carried forward her father’s legacy, ensuring his love for the outdoors continues to inspire generations.
April Howard, Lassila’s mother,
shared how biking became a central part of Lassila’s bond with her father, James Howard. “We were always camping, and Rhonda and her dad would go for these rides in the woods,” Howard said. “It started small, but pretty soon they were riding 30 miles.” This shared passion led to their participation in events like the Tour da Woods Race.
Howard reflected on how Rhonda has channeled her father’s legacy into her work with the Munising Bay Trail Network. “Since her dad’s passing, it’s been a way for her to feel like he’s still with her,” Howard said. “She didn’t ride for a while after he passed, but when she started again, it was like she just kept going further and further.” April Howard admires her daughter’s dedication. “Rhonda’s drive comes from a place of love and respect for her dad,” she said.
Looking ahead, the MBTN is working to connect its existing trails into a comprehensive network spanning Alger County and beyond. Lassila envisions creating links between Munising and nearby townships like Christmas and AuTrain, ultimately enabling safe and accessible routes for bikers and hikers.
“This has been on our radar since the very beginning,” Lassila said, referencing the long-term plan to integrate trail systems despite challenges like private land ownership and CFR land restrictions. One of the most exciting developments is the completion
Many events are held at Valley Spur, including snow biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. (Photo courtesy of Munising Bay Trail Network)
of the Wetmore connection, along with wishlist items such as further extensions linking to Bruno’s Run and the AuTrain Campground.
“We’re also looking at expanding with a loop across M-94 and a connection to town, which would really tie everything together,” Lassila said. These connections would not only enhance access for local users, but also solidify Munising’s reputation as a premier singletrack destination in the region.
For those eager to explore Valley Spur and the MBTN, the opportunities are as diverse as the trails themselves. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker, a snowshoer seeking winter adventure or a family looking for scenic hiking paths, the network offers something for everyone. Valley Spur’s groomed trails are a winter paradise for cross-country skiing and fat tire biking, while MBTN’s growing singletrack system delivers worldclass mountain biking and year-round recreation.
Trail maps, conditions and updates can be found on MBTN’s official website, mbtn.org, or their social media channels, making it easy to plan your visit. For detailed trail information, including length and difficulty, check the color-coded maps available
on their platforms. For those new to the area, Valley Spur is just minutes from Munising and offers amenities like warming huts during the winter months. Additional information about Valley Spur can be found at valleyspur.org.
Looking ahead, the MBTN will host the 50th Pictured Rocks Road Race, one of its largest fundraisers, set for Sunday, June 9. This milestone event will feature special celebrations commemorating half a century of this iconic race, while supporting MBTN’s mission to expand and maintain world-class trails in the Munising area.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, the trails of Alger County promise unforgettable experiences amid the breathtaking beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. “The trails are here for everyone — to explore, connect and enjoy,” Lassila said. “We’re just getting started.”
Jennifer Champagne is an accomplished entertainment and visual effects writer with a passion for storytelling. When she’s not crafting articles on industry giants, you’ll find her enjoying life with her family.
Rhonda Lassila, Judy Bolsenga and Peggy Carberry enjoy the winter options on the trail network. (Photo courtesy of Munising Bay Trail Network)
Star NMU player transitions to coaching sporting life
By Michael Murray
Makaylee Kuhn can’t seem to sit down. She has a seat — it’s right there next to her clipboard labeled “Coach K” — but she doesn’t have much use for it.
During the break between quarters, Kuhn’s place on the bench remains unoccupied. She crouches in front of her players, gets down on their level, looks them in the eyes and tries to convey a lifetime of basketball knowledge before the ref blows his whistle to signal the return to action.
As the second quarter gets under way, Kuhn finally takes a seat. She scans the court, leans over to the player on her left, shares a tip or two, points out a screen under the basket and is back on her feet, just like that. Her respite lasted all of 30 seconds.
For the rest of the quarter, she paces the sideline in front of her team’s bench, clapping, encouraging, gesturing, leaning, cajoling, teaching, encouraging some more, sometimes smiling, sometimes looking away as the play on the floor fails to match the picture in her mind.
She is a study in motion. She is a study in restraint. Something inside her wants to be on that floor with the ball in her hands, but something else tells her those days have passed.
This affliction, if that’s the word for it, is common among coaches, most of whom once played the game they now teach. The transition from athlete to coach, from competitor to instructor, can be difficult, especially for those as accomplished as Makaylee Kuhn.
An all-time great
When she arrived in Marquette at the beginning of the 201920 school year as a freshman on the Northern Michigan University women’s basketball team, Kuhn had already crafted an impressive athletic resume.
At Hilbert High School in east-central Wisconsin, she earned 12 varsity letters, four each in basketball, volleyball and track and field. On the basketball court, she was first team all-conference three times, conference player of the year and first team all-state. Her team won three regional titles.
In five seasons at NMU — athletes who played under COVID restrictions in 2020 were granted an extra year of
eligibility — she received just about every individual honor available including All-GLIAC First Team four times, the GLIAC Commissioner’s Award, multiple GLIAC Player of the Week honors, all-region recognition and selection as NMU’s Female Athlete of the Year.
Kuhn also excelled in the classroom, earning a 4.0 GPA as an environmental studies major. As a result, she received Academic All-America, All-District and All-GLIAC honors.
The crowning achievement of her playing career for the Wildcats came on Jan. 11, 2024, when she became the all-time leading scorer in pro-
gram history. Among her 2,005 career points, she scored 20 or more points in a game 36 times and 30 or more seven times.
She also started 123 of the 133 collegiate games she played in and was on the floor for about 75 percent of her team’s minutes across five seasons — which helps explain her inability to sit still during a basketball game.
A learning experience
AsKuhn faced the end of her playing career, she began to ponder her future in basketball — and her thoughts naturally turned to coaching. It’s somewhat of a family business.
Her father, Matt, coaches basketball, and her mother, Betsy, coaches cross country and track. Her brother is in his first year of coaching high school basketball.
“When I was younger, I was surrounded by my dad coaching and my mom coaching,” Kuhn said. “I kind of figured that, eventually, I would like to do it.”
She considered a couple of options: playing professionally overseas or getting into coaching. She decided to stay in the States — she’s finishing a master’s degree at NMU in interdisciplinary studies — so the coaching questions became where and at what level?
“I was looking into being a [collegiate graduate assistant], which was my initial plan, but that didn’t work out,” she said. “Then Ryan reached out and was like, ‘Hey, what are your plans next year?’ And I was like, ‘Funny you should ask.’”
Ryan is Ryan Reichel, head coach of the Ishpeming High School girls basketball team, which won the 2024 state championship. Reichel was looking for a girls junior varsity coach, and he’d heard that Kuhn might be available.
“I knew Makaylee was going to grad school this year, and I found out she wasn’t going to be a GA,” he said. “I thought, ‘Lucky for us,’ and got ahold of her. I knew that getting her to come to Ishpeming would be huge. She’s the Caitlin Clark of Northern Michigan, right?”
Kuhn and Reichel did not know each other well, but they did have a shared work experience.
When Troy Mattson retired in 2022 after leading the NMU women’s team for 17 years, Reichel, a former Northern basketball player, was on the committee tasked with finding Mattson’s replacement.
As the committee went about its work and ultimately recommended Casey Thousand for the job, two Wildcat players were invited to sit in on the group’s discussions and interviews: Kuhn and current senior Kayla Tierney.
“I got to meet him during that search, and we created a relationship right away,” Kuhn said. “I could see immediately, he knows what he’s talking about. … Then when he reached out last summer, I thought
Makaylee Kuhn started 123 of 133 collegiate games she played in and is taking that experience into the coaching world. (Photo by Michael Murray)
it would be great to work with him. I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity.”
Both Kuhn and Reichel expected a period of adjustment for Kuhn as she made the transition from scholarship athlete to coach of high school freshmen and sophomores.
Her goals for this season, however, were clear: “I liked working camps at Northern,” she said, “so I knew I loved working with the younger age
groups, helping them learn the game. That was such a rewarding experience for me.
“So I came in here and said I’m just going to try to make these girls better and help them love basketball and have fun with it. I think that’s definitely something that I’ve accomplished. They sometimes treat me like their best friend and I have to remind them, ‘Hey guys, you have to remember I’m also your coach.’”
Reichel said he immediately noticed this element of fun in Kuhn’s coaching style: “I came to one of her practices to see if she needed any assistance,” he said. “I watched for a few minutes and said, ‘Right out of the gate, you’re good. I’m outta here.’ … She’s keeping it light and fun — but competitive at the same time. And that’s what we really need at those lower levels. If the players love it, we’ll retain them in the program and they’ll get better.”
The ability to work alongside Reichel — a former college athlete who has made the transition to a successful coaching career — was an attractive selling point for Kuhn.
“I had heard so many good things about Ryan and his style of playing and style of coaching that I thought, I just want to learn as much as I can from him and be like a sponge for everything that he was teaching,” she said.
In addition to leading the Hematites’ JV team, Kuhn sits next to Reichel on the bench during varsity games and attends varsity practices.
“He’ll even give me pointers in the
middle of my JV game,” she said. “I’ve played a lot, but that doesn’t mean I know everything about basketball. One of my big goals coming in was to use this as a learning experience.”
Reichel acknowledged that the transition from being a star player to a coach is sometimes difficult.
“The funny part is that being an all-time leading scorer or your team’s best player doesn’t really factor into your ability as a coach,” he said. “But, fortunately, Makaylee really knows how to break the game down, and she really knows how to explain things. A lot of young coaches tend to over-talk when they’re explaining a drill, but she’s very good at emphasizing the key points, and every drill is clear. If she sticks with it and continues, she’ll be a remarkable coach.”
Alyssa Nimz, a senior on this year’s NMU team who played with Kuhn for three seasons, made the same point.
“Honestly, I think Jo knows the game better than anyone,” she said, referring to Kuhn by the name her friends, family and teammates use. “She can see the game, read the game and then make great decisions out of that. So I think the challenge for her is to be able to translate what she’s
seeing and thinking to this younger group. But when she does that, she’ll be very successful.
“And off the court, she just has great leadership skills — vocal leadership, leading by example, all of that. These young girls can learn a lot from her.”
MM
Michael Murray is an editor for Marquette Monthly. He has written about NMU teams and athletes since the mid-1990s.
Wildcat Makaylee Kuhn became the all-time leading scorer in NMU program history on Jan. 11, 2024. (Photo courtesy of NMU)
Coach Kuhn works to translate her extensive playing knowledge to her team. (Photo by Michael Murray)
Dogs serve NMU community lookout point
Veteran suicide-prevention events set for March 8
By Erin Elliott Bryan
If you’ve spent any time in Marquette in the last 10 years, you may have met Welles, an English black Labrador retriever. He travels everywhere with his handler, Michael Rutledge, and is kind of a big deal at NMU’s C.B. Hedgcock building, where Rutledge works as coordinator of student veteran services in the dean of students office. Welles is also the mascot of NMU’s volleyball team.
“He’s a bit of a celebrity,” Rutledge said.
But as Welles aged, Rutledge decided to retire him as a service dog and adopted Quinn, also an English black Labrador retriever, in April 2024. Quinn, too, is a trained service dog and is learning from Welles.
“They’re two peas in a pod,” Rutledge said. “Quinn follows Welles’s lead.”
Now both dogs have important roles to play at NMU and in the community. In addition to assisting Rutledge through his activities of daily living, they provide necessary comfort and support to the students, faculty and staff members on campus.
“I find it therapeutic to see people get so much joy from the dogs. On campus, they’re de-facto therapy dogs,” Rutledge said. “The dogs don’t know they’re doing such a big service.”
At NMU, Rutledge and his dogs primarily work with some 300 military-connected students or family members. He assists with the administration and management of their veterans benefits, serves as the faculty advisor of the NMU chapter of Student Veterans of America, and makes himself available for anyone wanting to talk in his veteran-friendly office.
Rutledge’s military service spans
Quinn and Welles are loved by the campus community whose veterans they comfort and support. (Photo courtesy of Michael Rutledge)
more than 20 years in the Army. He retired as a master sergeant, a senior non-commissioned officer, in 2004.
He graduated from high school in Taylor, Mich., outside of Detroit, and spent one year at Michigan State University before joining the military.
“I did sign up for the college money, but I was also an 18-year-old boy,” Rutledge said. “I wanted the adventure and to travel to Europe.”
He served in Germany throughout the 1980s and was seriously injured in 1985 when he broke his back and pelvis. He recovered well and was able to resume his service, staying in Germany until Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He later served in a non-combat role for three weeks in Iraq in 2003.
“I first signed up for a three-year enlistment, but I was good at it, and I liked it,” Rutledge said. “I wanted to make a career out of it.”
But by 2004, Rutledge’s physical injury began to limit his flexibility and mobility, and he experienced hearing issues and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“I didn’t want to retire, but I could not continue,” he said.
Assessments performed prior to his retirement resulted in his qualification for a specially trained service dog.
Rutledge’s first dog was a female black lab named Onyx who had been trained by America’s VetDogs. While Rutledge struggled with arthritis, Onyx was able to pick things up, help with household chores and act as a brace when Rutledge needed to get up or change positions.
But Onyx also helped him navigate transitions and life changes.
“I had a lot of trouble transitioning.
I was in the Army from 18 to 42 years old,” Rutledge said. “One day you’re there — I had a driver working for me, I had staff — and then you’re just Mike Rutledge again.
“It was a complete culture shock. Having the dog really helped tremendously.”
After his military retirement, Rutledge began working as a substitute teacher in Taylor while he pursued his Michigan teaching license. He later taught high school social studies in Traverse City while earning his master’s degree in humanities.
“[Onyx] really helped when I moved up to Traverse City,” Rutledge said. “When the first half of your adult life was in this subculture, you kind of feel like an outsider. If you met me, you’d never know I felt that way.”
From 2007 to 2014, he was an adjunct professor of history and humanities at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City.
“All of my parents were teachers, my mother and father and my stepmother and stepfather,” Rutledge said. “I enjoy it, passing along knowledge to students.”
He and Onyx came to NMU in 2014. Onyx passed away six months later.
But just 20 days after his loss, Rutledge brought Welles home to Marquette.
As a puppy, Welles had been raised by an organization called Dogs in Honor and was training to be a guide dog through Leader Dogs for the Blind. But Welles didn’t make it through the program and he was returned to his puppy raiser. And when the puppy raiser heard about Onyx,
Quinn and Welles are both local celebrities, even serving as mascots for NMU’s volleyball team. (Photo courtesy of Michael Rutledge)
she reached out to Rutledge to let him know that Welles was available.
“It was divine intervention to get Welles one month after Onyx,” Rutledge said.
Over the last 10 years, Welles gained more and more popularity at NMU and throughout the community.
“Everybody loves Welles,” Amber Emanuelson, senior admissions processor specialist at NMU, told the North Wind in 2023. “When we have visitors out in the hallways, everybody’s eyes just light up.”
Rutledge said both students and staff will often seek out Welles if they are nervous about a meeting or stressed about a class — and Welles has a way of understanding that.
“Welles can sense if somebody is in a bad mood,” Rutledge said. “He will go and sit down next to them.”
Welles’ ability to connect even inspired his former dog walker Jenna Bowers to launch her own pet-sitting business last year, which she named “Very Welles Pet Sitting” in his honor. Welles also served as the ring bearer at Bowers’s wedding.
When Rutledge was thinking about retiring Welles, he put out a call that he was looking for another dog, saying he “didn’t want an overlap with no dog.” Quinn was trained by Goose Nest Labs in Holly, Mich., the owner of which spent a year training the dog specifically to serve a veteran.
Quinn is trained to perform “basic PTSD tasks” and is always on guard to protect Rutledge. He will enter first to clear a room and stands behind Rutledge, “face out,” to alert if he doesn’t know someone who is approaching.
“Labs love to work. Quinn is always on my left side, one pace behind,” Rutledge said. “He does not let me out of his sight.”
Since finding his forever home
with Rutledge and Welles, Quinn has become a local celebrity as well, even joining Welles as a mascot for NMU’s volleyball team.
“He and Welles were invited into the locker room before a scrimmage match in early August, and Quinn was initiated in,” Rutledge said. “Welles can bark on command and he has always barked when the ladies are introduced, something I am still working on with Quinn. Welles, and now Quinn, are a regular fixture at 90 percent of the home matches.”
The team also visits the dogs on their birthdays (Welles on Oct. 3 and Quinn on July 29) to sing “Happy Birthday” and participate in their “one bite” tradition in which team members eat a cupcake in one bite.
“It’s not a problem for Welles,” Rutledge said.
Welles and Quinn recently joined Rutledge on TV6’s “Upper Michigan Today” to talk about an upcoming event. Rutledge works with U.P. Together with Veterans, a community-based suicide prevention program for veterans in rural areas.
The organization will sponsor “1 Degree of Separation: A Funny Look at Depression and Suicide” on Saturday, March 8.
Two shows will take place in Marquette County, at 2 p.m. at the Ishpeming National Guard Armory and at 5 p.m. at NMU’s Reynolds Recital Hall. Both shows are free and open to all, though they are recommended for ages 18 and older.
In addition to veterans, the shows can be beneficial to first responders, medical and mental health professionals, and anyone who may be experiencing high stress situations. Counselors, chaplains and additional resources will also be available.
“The goal is to catch anyone who
Welles and Quinn are always on guard to assist Michael Rutledge, NMU veterans affairs coordinator. (Photo courtesy of Michael Rutledge)
might be falling through the cracks,” Rutledge said. “For the cost of putting on the event, if we can prevent one vet from committing suicide, it will be worth it.”
Four comedians will perform who are trained and certified by the Veterans Administration (VA) to facilitate positive conversations about mental health.
“We aim to bring dialogue, awareness and acceptance for those suffering from depression through laughter and vulnerability,” according to the show’s website. “We laugh at the dark stuff, because laughter releases the pain. We talk about depression because no one should feel shame. With an army of comedians, we hope to kill the stigma of depression and share stories of hope, happiness and triumph.”
Rutledge noted that NMU has a gold rating from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) for being a veteran-friendly school and last year was recognized as the second most military-friendly school in the nation in its category by Viqtory Media, a veteran-owned business that evaluates colleges and universities on its accommodations for veteran students and their spouses.
NMU has the highest per-capita number of veterans of the 16 public colleges and universities in Michigan, according to Rutledge.
“NMU attracts vets,” Rutledge said. “It’s a small school with lots of outdoor activities.”
Rutledge promotes NMU at outreach events through his involvement with the state’s Veteran Community Action Teams. He also plans an annual Veterans Day commemoration, identifies a “Veteran of the Game” at NMU hockey and football games, and awards the Student Veteran of the Year.
Rutledge said the university’s administration fully supports his efforts. But his office is perhaps best known for the four-legged friends who “work” there.
“Everybody likes the dogs,” Rutledge said.
For details about the “1 Degree of Separation” event on March 8, contact Carl at 906-458-6403 or Pam at 906360-3890.
Erin Elliott Bryan grew up in Ishpeming and graduated from NMU. She is a freelance writer and an MM calendar editor.
NMU Veterans Affairs Coordinator Michael Rutledge and Welles were able to visit Mackinac Island in 2023 when the NMU women’s volleyball team played an exhibition game there. (Photo courtesy of Michael Rutledge)
the arts
A century of curtain calls
Iron Mountain theater celebrates 100 years
By Jennifer Champagne
As with all great resurrections, it requires a group of dedicated and determined volunteers, passionate patrons, and — if the rumors are true — a ghost leading the way.
This year the Braumart Theater celebrates its 100th anniversary, a milestone not just for the historic venue but for the downtown Iron Mountain community. From its days as a stateof-the-art cinema palace to its rebirth as a vibrant performing arts center, the Braumart’s evolution reflects the town’s enduring love of the arts.
The theater’s history is intertwined with the Thomas family, who played a pivotal role in its operation and eventual evolution. August Brauns originally owned the Colonial Theater, with Martin Thomas serving as its manager. When they built the Braumart, they went in as partners, ensuring its success during the heyday of cinema. After August either retired or passed away, Martin Thomas became the owner of Thomas Theaters, carrying the business forward.
Martin’s daughter, Mary Thomas,
married Oren Renn, continuing the family’s connection to the theater world. Their daughter, Valarie Renn, later married Thomas Andes, and today, Thomas and Valarie Andes are the current owners of Thomas Theatre Group, preserving the family’s cine-
matic legacy.
The Braumart Theater first lit up the marquee in April 1925, the brainchild of August Brauns and Martin Thomas, whose names now forever grace the venue. At its debut, it was hailed as the finest amusement house
north of Milwaukee, a purpose-built movie palace designed for the silent film era and later, the golden age of Hollywood. As entertainment habits shifted with the rise of television in the 1950s, many theaters struggled. Yet the Braumart persisted, adapt-
The 1959 film “The Big Circus” with Vincent Price played at the Braumart. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Andes)
ing to the times, splitting its auditorium in 1982 to cater to multiple audiences and remaining Iron Mountain’s only cinema for decades. That first chapter closed in 1996 when the theater shut its doors. But the Braumart was far from finished.
In 2007, the Friends of the Braumart formed, led by Executive Director Jinx Brew and founding member Audrey Smith, an advocate for historic preservation. Both were members of the Dickinson County Community Theater group and saw an opportunity to transform the historic venue into a thriving arts center.
Smith, who served on the Downtown Development Authority, recognized the importance of saving historic structures. “When a town like ours loses its historic buildings, it loses its history,” she said. They initially placed an article in the paper to gauge interest, expecting a slow buildup of support. To their surprise, more than 300 people quickly joined their cause, demonstrating just how deeply the community valued the Braumart.
“We thought it would take months just to get people interested, but the response was overwhelming,” Brew said. “People were donating what they could — every little bit helped.”
By 2016, after years of fundraising and rallying community support, the group had officially purchased the property, marking a major milestone in their journey. Brew credits the early support of a grassroots network and notes Smith’s role in shaping their vision. “Without Audrey, we wouldn’t be where we are right now,” Brew said. “She was instrumental at the beginning. She did so many things.”
Smith, in turn, praised Brew’s dedication. “Jinx gets the credit for pushing, for making the theater what it is,”
Smith said. “She has worked tirelessly, bringing in touring acts and making it available for local groups. Jinx has been in the trenches since the beginning. Without her drive and vision, I don’t think we would have made it this far.”
The first major task was restoring the building to a functional space. Volunteers tackled the enormous job of removing decades of accumulated clutter, including old chairs, storage materials and debris from past renovations. “We filled up three or four dumpsters,” said Board President Rodney Kjell. “And then we tackled the smell — think grandma’s old closet. Now, with upgraded ventilation and deep cleaning, we’ve got a space that’s warm and welcoming.”
Over the years, improvements have been steady, with each step bringing the Braumart closer to the vision its founders had in mind. Other key early figures, including Duane Peck, who served as vice president for three terms and is now acting treasurer, and board members such as current vice president Seth Anderson and acting secretary Lynn Iverson, played crucial roles in shaping the theater’s development.
Peck acknowledged Brew’s leadership. “Jinx is primarily the founding member,” he said. “There were five of us, but she was the one really pushing things forward.”
Iverson reinforced this, noting that Brew keeps everything running.
“We’ve had some really wonderful board members — talented, knowledgeable and hardworking,” Smith reflected. “The idea was always to keep fresh energy cycling through. Board members serve terms and rotate out to ensure new ideas and momentum keep driving the theater for-
The Braumart Theater in Iron Mountain was used for many forms of entertainment over the decades. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Andes)
ward. They helped push it through to the next step.”
The dedication of volunteers remains the key to the theater’s success, with community members stepping in to help wherever possible. “The outpouring of support has been humbling,” Brew said. “People aren’t just donating money — they’re giving their time, skills and passion to make this theater a success.”
Kjell didn’t set out to take on a leadership role in its revival — it just happened. His introduction to the theater came through an unexpected turn: a role in a Dickinson County Community Theater production. It was his first time acting, and before he knew it, board members John Estes and Audrey Smith invited him to a meeting. From there, he was hooked. “I love my wife, I don’t drive fast cars and I needed a project,” he joked. “Since the goal was to revitalize this theater, it just seemed like something I could get behind, and things have just kind of continued to grow from there.”
Now at the helm of the Braumart’s 100th-anniversary efforts, Kjell reflects on how the theater has evolved while holding onto its roots. “We try to maintain our connection with the past,” he said, recognizing its long history as a movie palace before trans-
forming into a performing arts space. His commitment isn’t just professional — it’s personal. His whole family has pitched in, from volunteering at the concession stand to helping set up
for movie nights, a process that once took four hours but has been cut to ten minutes thanks to new equipment. And as for his so-called midlife crisis? “Midlife crises aren’t necessarily
bad,” he said with a grin. “I found a really productive one, and if anybody else doesn’t know what to do with theirs, come see me.”
At one point, the board faced a crit-
Local motorcycle enthusiasts gathered for the showing of “The Wild Angels,” a 1966 action-thriller featuring Peter Fonda and Nancy Sinatra, shown at the Braumart Theater. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Andes)
ical decision: move forward with purchasing and restoring the theater or abandon the effort and risk watching the structure deteriorate. “The building is crumbling a little bit every day, and we either need to do something or stop doing what we’re doing and just let the place fall to the ground,” said then-board member John Estes.
Determined to save the historic venue, the board made an offer below the asking price, which the owner accepted. This decision set the stage for the Braumart’s transformation into a thriving arts destination. “There was a time across America where people were pretty careless... careless about tearing down older buildings and replacing them,” Smith said. “We don’t want to be so careless.”
The marquee has been restored, new restrooms added and aging seats professionally cleaned. But perhaps most notably, the theater’s role in the community expanded, welcoming live music, dance and theatrical performances, ensuring the arts remained alive in Dickinson County.
Among the notable performers to take the stage is Victoria Ferrari, a musician tied to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Her group has made multiple appearances at the Braumart, consistently drawing sold-out crowds.
“The Lone Ranger” was released in 1956, and Braumart patrons embraced the cowboy-themed promotion. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Andes)
“This group likes to come up here and perform,” Kjell said. “And they just sound really good.” Acts like these have helped elevate the theater’s reputation beyond the local scene, attracting audiences who appreciate top-tier talent in an intimate venue.
This year’s lineup continues that tradition with a diverse and refreshing mix of performances: “In the Flesh,” a Pink Floyd tribute, kicks things off in April, followed by Anthony Shore’s “True Elvis Review” in May.
June brings “Harmonious Wail” with Americana-infused Gypsy jazz, while “Salsa Manzana” spices things up at the end of the month. The “Glenn Miller Orchestra,” Bob Milne’s ragtime piano, and the “Sixtiesmania” showcase will keep the summer alive, leading into the fall with “Another One,” a Grateful Dead tribute, and a much-anticipated hometown show from Lindsay Lou. Rounding out the season, Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers will bring their indie Michi-
gan sound to the stage in November.
For the first time, the theater is offering season passes, a move designed to ensure financial stability while encouraging ongoing community support. “We’re hoping this allows us to plan even further in advance,” Kjell said. “The more we can guarantee funding, the bigger and better acts we can bring in.”
No historic theater is complete without its share of supernatural stories, and the Braumart is no exception. Over the years, staff and volunteers have shared eerie experiences, from unexplained noises to doors moving on their own. Estes recalls a moment before the theater was even purchased. “We were putting on a play, and I was up in the men’s dressing room when I pointed at a panel leaning against the wall. Just as I said that, the panel fell over backwards. There was no air movement, no one opened a door — it just happened.”
Another time, while being interviewed by a reporter, Estes mentioned the ghost and, right on cue, a heavy swinging door in the lobby started moving on its own. “I pointed at it and said, ‘Told you we had a ghost.’ She about melted to the ground.”
Even board members remain divided on the mystery. “The ghost isn’t
mean or anything,” Estes said. “He or she is a comedian.” Meanwhile Peck remains skeptical: “I’ve been in that theater alone many times, and yeah, you hear strange sounds, but I don’t really attach a ghost to it.” As for Kjell, he takes a personal approach. “There have been rumors that there’s a ghost or two here... I’m sure I’ve been the only one in the theater, and it’s like, ‘Why is that door open?’”
The Braumart wouldn’t be what it is without the people who fill its seats and rally behind it. And few do that better than Bob and Gloria Koerschner. They’re not just regulars — they’re the kind of people who bring the energy, the applause and, occasionally, the dance moves. “We don’t generally miss a show because really everything Jinx schedules there is good,” Bob said. “Even if we’re not familiar with the artist, we’ll go, and we always find out that they’re really, really talented.”
Bob has called Iron Mountain home since he was 12, but for Gloria, her love of the arts started long before moving to the U.P. “I always loved going to plays when I was younger in Colombia,” she said. Their connection to the Braumart grew even stronger when their youngest son, Mark, got involved in community theater, performing at the same venue they now frequent as patrons. So when it came time to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary, the Braumart was the natural choice. They turned the theater into a salsa-fueled party.
“It was one of the coldest nights in 20 years — way below zero,” Bob recalled. “But inside, everyone was dancing and having a great time.” For Gloria, a self-proclaimed salsa lover, it was even more special. “My family came from everywhere,” she said. “It
was just a very special night.”
For the Braumart team, the 100th anniversary isn’t just about looking back — it’s about planning for the future. The theater’s board has outlined a three-phase renovation plan. The first phase will expand the stage footprint, upgrade lighting and enhance sound technology. The second will revamp seating for comfort and accessibility, modernize the lobby and repurpose second-floor spaces for workshops and artist residencies. The final phase will restore the historic facade and install a new marquee to further cement the Braumart’s place in Iron Mountain’s cultural landscape.
There’s also talk of a gala later in the year, the first since 2019. “We’re small but mighty,” Kjell says of the all-volunteer organization. “Everything we’ve done is thanks to the passion of our community. The next 100 years will be built on that same spirit.”
From its glamorous opening to its near-demolition, from an ambitious grassroots revival to its current status as an arts hub, the Braumart’s journey is a story of resilience, reinvention and community spirit.
The Braumart’s success today is driven by a dedicated team committed to preserving its legacy. The theater continues to grow as a vibrant arts hub. But keeping the Braumart thriving takes more than just a board — it takes a community. There are countless ways to get involved. For details, visit thebraumart.org.
Jennifer Champagne is an accomplished entertainment and visual effects writer with a passion for storytelling. When she’s not crafting articles on industry giants, you’ll find her enjoying life with her family.
Volunteers have preserved the history and the legacy of the Braumart Theater for decades to come. (Photo courtesy of Thomas Andes)
sporting life
Adaptive skiers aided by new foundation
By Kristi Evans
Casey De Vooght of Negaunee had to suspend her training with Team USA’s development program toward her goal of competing in the 2026 Paralympic Games in Nordic skiing and biathlon due to a medical issue, but she quickly found a new focus that keeps her connected to the sport she loves.
She is empowering other adaptive skiers to pursue their dreams in an inclusive environment, with access to resources that will help them achieve their full potential. De Vooght is the co-founder and executive director of a new nonprofit, the Midwest Adaptive Nordic Foundation (MANF).
The MANF seeks financial support from donors to fund athlete scholarships to purchase needed equipment and apparel, and to support travel stipends, training opportunities and holistic therapies to enhance mental health and performance. The application window will open each June and close at the end of July so the funding can be applied before the snow arrives.
The scholarships will help local athletes participating through organizations trying to grow adaptive skiing in the Upper Peninsula and Midwest. These include the Superiorland Ski
Club in Marquette, which De Vooght serves as a volunteer coach. There will also be a national component available to para skiers elsewhere in the country.
“There are a couple major foundations out there to help adaptive athletes, but they cover all sports, so the applicant pool is bigger and more competitive,” De Vooght said. “We wanted to create something just for Nordic skiing. People with disabilities have higher medical expenses typically, and the equipment can be very expensive. The foundation is trying to bridge that gap so money isn’t a barrier to participation.
“It’s really about getting more people outside in nature doing a fun activity that might not otherwise be accessible, whether they’re in it for recreation or competition. I’m also a huge advocate for allowing kids to ski with their friends and families, rather than separately; they shouldn’t feel isolated. Team USA coaches are pushing inclusion, too. Adaptive skiers may do it differently and at different levels, but they can do it. I think it’s important they realize their capabilities and that their peers see that as well. It’s a teachable moment when everyone is out there together.”
De Vooght understands the challenges adaptive athletes confront. Her first experience with Nordic skiing occurred in adulthood, not long after she recovered from an abovethe-knee amputation of her right leg, which had been severely injured in a military training exercise. She recalls lying on her hospital bed and seeing a photo of a multiple medal-winning Paralympian competing in a biathlon event on an apparatus with a seat affixed to skis. De Vooght was inspired and spontaneously texted a friend that she planned to pursue the sport. She soon joined the Team USA Nordic Ski and Biathlon Paralympic Development Team.
“Above-knee amputees typically sit ski because prosthetics are not specialized for cross country, but I was determined to be the
first stand-up adaptive skier to compete on a national level. That was a big motivator for me when I attended my first camp in Breckenridge,” said De Vooght, who then completed most of her training remotely in Marquette County to be close to her physical therapist. “I also wanted to inspire other above-knee amputees that they could do it, even recreationally. I fell a lot and it was definitely a case of trial and error, but it was rewarding being surrounded by other individuals with their own disabilities out there skiing in a way that works for them.”
De Vooght found it difficult and deflating to have to step away from the sport for medical reasons, but she was re-energized when leaders of the Superiorland Ski Club (SSC) approached her about starting an adaptive Nordic program.
“It was an opportunity to get back into the sport and share my passion with the next generation of athletes in the hope they will find it as rewarding as I did,” she explained. “To watch a young kid start out super nervous and then fall in love with skiing is really special. Last year, I saw a boy complete the Noque adaptive race, and it was only his second time on a sit ski. To see the pure joy on his face when he crossed the finish line was a turning point for me.”
That child was nine-year-old Oskar Alan of Marquette. He had a strong desire to pursue Nordic skiing, but couldn’t do it from a standing position because his balance, coordination and strength are compromised by cerebral palsy. Undeterred, and with support from the SSC, he tested a borrowed commercial sit ski last winter and was hooked after his first run.
Now more children with disabilities have an opportunity to participate in the sport locally, thanks to the efforts of Northern Michigan University Engineering Technology faculty. They built four sit skis for the SSC, saving the nonprofit money and advancing its initiative to promote inclusion and belonging among youth skiers.
“It’s such a wonderful gift to have adaptive equipment available for a small group of kids to be able to sit ski
together,” said Oskar’s mom, Melissa Alan. “I get emotional thinking about his first time trying it because it was so incredible. After he received help getting fitted and buckled in, he didn’t wait for a boost; he just took off with a big smile on his face and was eager to keep going. When he finished the 1K adaptive race at the Noque a week later, some high schoolers waiting for their race to start gave him high-fives. Seeing the community rally around him and really make him feel proud was super cool to see. I’ll never forget it.”
Oskar told her the sit ski erases any worry about falling over, so he feels more in control and can just focus on gaining momentum to carry him down the trail.
“His physical therapist had told me he’s an athletic kid,” Melissa added. “That was really eye-opening; my mind hadn’t gone there. But I realized we just have to meet him where he’s at for him to be an athlete on his terms and to the best of his ability.”
NMU Technology and Applied Sciences adjunct instructor Kevin Carr is a board member and Para Nordic coach with the SSC, which offers programs for youth ages five and older. He assisted with Oskar’s initiation
Oskar Alan has become an ambassador for adaptive skiing. (Photo by Melissa Alan)
Casey De Vooght works to empower adaptive skiers. (Courtesy of Casey De Vooght)
to the borrowed sit ski and supported him in his first race. Carr approached two NMU colleagues in Engineering Technology about using their skills and expertise to help more athletes participate.
Instructor Joe Routhier drew a sit ski in a computer-aided design (CAD) program, then sent it to professor Cale Polkinghorne, who secured donated materials from Superior Extrusion and built the equipment. The seats were developed by a prosthetist. The four sit skis complement the two commercial models previously purchased by the SSC.
“It’s pretty monumental what Northern has done,” Carr said. “It has helped our ski club become one of few in the nation with an integrated Para Nordic program. There are a fair number of stand-alone Para Nordic programs, but we want our adaptive athletes to be able to ski with their peers. This is truly life-changing for kids who normally don’t have the opportunity to be part of a team.”
Polkinghorne, who recently took up Nordic skiing, has supported his daughter’s participation in the SSC from a young age. She is now a member of the high school team, and was one of the skiers who lined up to cheer for Oskar and shower him with highfives after his Noque race.
“My daughter loved that,” Polkinghorne said. “I happened to be there watching that day and Kevin (Carr) — who is amazing for how much he volunteers for the SSC — said he would love for me to make some sit skis for the club. I told him that was definitely doable. I have a great appreciation for the fact my two kids are not living with a disability, and I have a soft spot for kids who struggle with physical
or mental challenges. It’s easy to get involved in something that allows everyone to participate in a sport.
“This is not a one-time deal; it will be a continuation. Kevin and I started talking about the second phase of building the next size up so that when kids grow out of the smaller version, they will grow into the next. I’m going to try to get my manufacturing processes class involved as well. Their final class project may be to build the next-size adaptive ski system.”
Carr said the hope is that the ski club will be able to support the level of interest in its Para Nordic program with enough equipment and coaches. He added that Oskar has become an ambassador for new adaptive athletes who join, including three Ukrainian adoptees, all with Down Syndrome.
“It’s been a great leadership opportunity for him, and he just stepped right up,” his mom Melissa added. “They did a test run of the sit skis. After the kids got into them, Oskar went out in front, saying he would teach the others the basics. He’s so happy and full of joy when he’s on those skis and wants to share his excitement with others. For living in a smaller town, we’re getting some pretty amazing opportunities through programs like this.”
Learn more about the new foundation De Vooght co-founded at midwestadaptivenordic.org and the SSC that she volunteers with to expand adaptive Nordic opportunities at superiorlandskiclub.com.
Kristi Evans is a public relations professional, writer and hobby photographer who spends much of her free time outdoors.
Four sit skis were crafted by NMU professors collaborating from different departments for the Superiorland Ski Club. (Photo by Kevin Carr)
Young artist brings trees to life
By Jennifer Donovan
Helen Belopavlovich was startled to hear their name called at the opening of the Friends of Finland’s first juried art exhibit in Hancock last December. Their painting, Boreal, had won the Young at Art prize, as well as the Audience Choice award.
The 22-year-old Hancock resident hadn’t even really expected their painting to be accepted for the exhibit, let alone win.
“I created it without a purpose,” Belopavlovich said. “It was just something to do. When they called my name, I was shocked.”
But the huge, haunting acrylic painting — almost five feet high and featuring pine trees standing tall against a sky streaked with northern lights — had captured the hearts of the art exhibit judges, as well as the most online voters, and Belopavlovich walked away with a $250 prize and a big ego boost.
Supporting Finnish Culture
The Finlandia Foundation National (FFN) sponsored the art exhibit at the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock. It featured contemporary, folk and traditional arts and crafts by Finnish and Finnish-American artists and what the foundation calls “Finnish-loving friends.” The foundation works to champion Finnish culture and heritage across the United States by supporting educational opportunities and promoting diverse enriching programs like the art exhibit.
When Finlandia University closed in 2023, the FFN purchased the Finnish American Heritage Center to keep its community programming, museum, bookstore and art gallery operating and its archives intact. Within a year, with the help and financial contributions of more than 900 individuals and organizations, the foundation reported that preservation of the history of Finnish America at the Finnish American Heritage Center looked secure.
“This is a positive outcome for what could have been an unacceptable fate for these precious materials, programs and resources,” said Anne-Mari Paster, FFN president. “This marks not the end, but the beginning of a new and meaningful project. We have our work to do in caring for these heritage
items and planning for their future. It is absolutely compatible with why the Finlandia Foundation was founded 70 years ago. We are here to preserve our roots in Finland, and at the same time build on that connection with the current and future generations.”
Belopavlovich considers themself “mostly Finnish.” Despite a Croatian last name from their father’s side of the family, their mother’s maiden name was Heikkinen. “Definitely Finnish,” the young artist said.
Belopavlovich finds inspiration in nature. They’re especially drawn to pine trees, which surround their home in the woods just outside Hancock. “I’m fascinated by their shape, how they grow, where they bend and curve,” Belopavlovich said. “Each tree is so different. When I’m painting them, I’m trying to represent the tree’s life, its soul.”
Art as Mindfulness Belopavlovich calls painting a mindfulness practice. “Just looking at the trees and working slowly
through each step of putting them on paper can be really meditative,” they explained. An artist-in-residence program on Rabbit Island during high school solidified that belief. “It was the solitude, the wilderness, being with like-minded people and being allowed to do whatever we wanted.”
The Rabbit Island artists even created prints with paint they made themselves from pine cones. Belopavlovich still treasures those prints.
“Belopavlovich’s work is deeply connected to the environment, and a profound sense of place is evident in their work,” said Finlandia Art Gallery Director Carrie Vander Veen. The gallery in Hancock housed the Friends of Finland exhibit.
“Growing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, their love of nature and art developed simultaneously,” Vander Veen went on to say. “Their participation in the Rabbit Island School in 2019 — a program that focuses on experiential arts and ecology education —took their artmaking to the next level. Spending time on Rab-
Helen Belopavlovich won the 25 & Under and the Audience Choice awards at the Friends of Finland juried exhibit put on by the Finnish American Heritage Center. (Photo courtesy of Finlandia Art Gallery)
bit Island, a 91-acre forested island in Lake Superior, encouraged them to look closely at nature and taught them a daily art practice. The impact of this program is evident in the painting Boreal. A reverence for nature and beauty shine through Belopavlovich’s artwork.”
An Artistic Family Belopavlovich’s whole family is creative. Their father, Steven Belopavlovich, is a carpenter who built their family’s house and recently put in a sweeping staircase. Their mother, Carla Belopavlovich, loves to draw and sketch, and their sister, Kendall, paints. “I guess we’re all artists, in our way,” they said.
“Ever since they were little, Helen has always been an avid artist,” Kendall said. “Through years of practice, they’ve become an amazing artist, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.”
Growing up in that kind of family, Belopavlovich dove right into art as a child attending Barkell Elementary School in Hancock. By the time they entered Dollar Bay High School, they were getting serious about it. Jade Babcock, Belopavlovich’s art teacher there, was excited to hear that Belopavlovich had won the Young Artist Prize at the Finlandia Art Gallery.
“It’s a well-deserved recognition of their talent and dedication to the arts,” she said.“Helen has always had a unique gift for capturing nature in their artwork. It’s been evident and present within their work for years. What I admire most is their curiosity and boldness in exploring new perspectives and in getting their work out into the world, beyond the studio walls.
“Helen has an incredible spirit — their passion for art, growth and discovery are inspiring. As their former art teacher, I am proud to see that their passion for creating continues to exist. I feel privileged to have played a small part in their journey, and I can’t wait to see how their work continues to evolve.”
Katie Torrey has known Helen since the artist was in middle school. “Helen has always been a very kind person and a dependable friend,” Torrey said. “I’ve really enjoyed watching their art evolve and seeing them explore new topics and try new techniques.”
Torrey had seen images of Belopavlovich’s winning painting while it was in progress, but had not actually stood in front of it until she came to the Friends of Finland art exhibit. “Seeing it in person really took my breath away because it was so strik-
ing,” she said. “I see why it was chosen for the awards. We’re very proud of Helen’s accomplishments, being recognized among so many talented artists.”
Overcoming challenges
Belopavlovich faces health challenges. They suffer from a connective tissue disease that makes it hard to walk. They have to use a cane and a mobility device.
But that hasn’t stopped Belopavlovich. They work at North Wind Books in Hancock when they aren’t painting, and they’re applying for an artist-in-residence slot at Isle Royale National Park this coming summer. They also recently entered some of their art for an exhibit at the Copper Country Community Arts Center in Hancock.
Doctors are trying to track down the genetics of the family’s ancestors that might have caused the challenges.
In fact, the genetic history compiled while trying to track down the source of Belopavlovich’s condition has revealed ancestors from a part of northern Finland that is reminiscent of Hancock, situated on wetlands near a sea.
Belopavlovich isn’t surprised. The young artist can feel Finland calling. “I’d love to visit, or even live there someday.”
Jennifer Donovan is a freelance writer based in Houghton. She has decades of experience as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer and university communications specialist, most recently as director of news and information at Michigan Tech.
Helen Belopavlovich is inspired by trees, a theme in their art. (Photo courtesy of Helen Belopavlovich)
locals
Marquette country singer inspired by life’s lessons
By Jim LaJoie
When Bradley Brownell straps on his guitar and saunters his way on stage at a venue near you, his simplistic approach to entertaining involves creating a powerful connection between his smooth, mellow voice, his guitar and the crowd of people who come out to support him.
“I don’t take a lot of requests, and I play songs that are important to me,” said the somewhat shy Ironwood native who has made his home in Marquette for the past 40 years. “I tend to play songs that really do something for me, songs that bring me to a different spot.
“I’ll start a song, look out in the audience and see someone nodding. It may be an obscure song, but I’ll see that toe tapping … That’s all it takes for me. Now, I say to myself, we are going to do this.”
“This” in this case is Brownell, that signature voice and that acoustic guitar, which quite literally has been his best friend since the tender age of 12.
“I was 12 years old when I traded my hockey stick for a guitar and that was that,” said the 45-year-old Brownell. “[Hockey] wasn’t right for me. I was angry … my older brother was a really good hockey player, and I think maybe I needed to do my own thing. I was kind of a loner and bugged my parents a lot (about playing a guitar) when I was playing hockey.”
That love affair with his guitar struck up a relationship that he has fostered for more than three decades.
“I would play for hours and hours and hours. Unfortunately for my parents, those were rock ’n’ roll days,” he recalled of the height of the grunge era. “I was listening to Nirvana and Pearl Jam. My reason for starting was Pearl Jam … I wanted to be like Mike McCready. I wanted his guitar … it was loud in those days. There was no acoustic in my house.”
McCready is an American musician known for being a founding member and lead guitarist of Pearl Jam.
“Then, there was Kurt Cobain of Nirvana,” Brownell said of the lead vocalist, guitarist, primary songwriter and a founding member of the popular
grunge band. “He made us see that we could all play the guitar. Nothing was spectacular about the way he played. I knew it was achievable.”
So, he strummed, strummed and strummed some more, using his ear as the guiding light. He didn’t learn to read music until about five months ago.
“In Marquette, I learned the guitar and took lessons from half of the teachers in this town for the first three years,” Brownell said. “The Internet came along and that helped a lot. I learned from friends and books. You can get a music book without notes, and really, I just grabbed what was out there at the time.”
In his early years of adulthood, Brownell worked different jobs in maintenance, plumbing and HVAC work. Then came armed services stints overseas. He was first sent to the Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia area in 2001. That was followed by a 19-month stint in Iraq. This period
coincided with Operation Iraqi Freedom, a military campaign launched by the United States and coalition forces in March 2003. It sought to end Saddam Hussein’s regime while identifying and eliminating Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction and capturing terrorists.
When a rifle wasn’t in his hand, he reached out to his tried-and-true friend — his guitar.
“I remember sending a guitar over there before I left and it got stolen, but my mom sent me another one,” he said. “The guitar has come in and out of my life. There was music, and at certain times I played a little bit, yet we were in wartime, and being in the situation we were in, I was hyper focused on that.”
He said his late mother was always his biggest supporter in life and in music.
“She wasn’t going to let me go without my instrument for that length of time, so she made sure to get a new
Local musician Bradley Brownell has relied on his guitar to get him through the twists and turns of life. (Photo by Jim LaJoie)
one sent out to me right away,” he said.
Although Brownell earned a degree from Northern Michigan University in media production and computer information systems, his true passion and a defining part of his existence was singing and playing the guitar.
Yet, it’s only been in the last three years when he bravely decided to venture out of the comfortable confines of his living room setting to showcase his talents at small bar/restaurant venues in Marquette.
Go to a show and you’ll see that long, neatly kept beard flowing from his endearing face. Music is where his loving soul receives its nourishment. He sticks with a standard 36-song set list and rarely deviates from script.
“I may bounce things around a bit according to how things are going, but I pretty much stick with it,” he said. “I don’t go on stage with a library of 60 songs. My set list is revolving, but it is revolving slowly.”
What arguably sets Brownell apart from other musicians is that set list. It’s comprised mostly of country tunes. Yet, people in the audience won’t likely hear Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, George Jones or other bigtime country legends. Rather, you’ll
hear a vast array of music from singer-songwriters on the rise, those on the cusp of making it big. Those are Brownell’s kind of musicians.
“I like to find guys who are a little under the radar,” he proudly said. “Those songs are special to me. I like to seek out something special who people have not discovered.”
In his one- to two-hour performance, Brownell will play tunes from Cody Jinks, Dylan Gossett and Wyatt Flores — not household-familiar names to the average country fan. Yet, when one listens to the lyrics, one can readily discern how Brownell gravitates to their music and moving, heartfelt words that embody life.
“Wyatt Flores has this song called ‘The Good Ones,’ which pays homage to those who have lost,” Brownell said. “I’m really into Cody Jinks who has this song called ‘Hippies and Cowboys.’ It’s just fun. And ‘Cole’ by Dylan Gossett.”
“If I think back to three years ago when I started doing this, I was playing Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan. We had no idea who they were,” he said. “Now, everyone knows them. The first time I saw Zach Bryan was in 2021 in a room of 700 people, and it cost me $25 a ticket. The next time
Bradley Brownell has taken his music outside the safety of his living room and has shared his gifts in venues across the central U.P. during the last three years. (Photo courtesy of Bradley Brownell)
I saw him it cost me $300 and there were 23,000 people there.”
Flores, 23, is an American country music singer-songwriter whose debut studio album, “Welcome to the Plains,” was released in 2024; Jinks, regarded as one of the most underrated artists in the entire genre, has released 10 albums and singles over a career spanning more than 14 years; and Gossett, 25, is an American country singer-songwriter from Texas. He has released two studio EPs and seven singles.
These deep, moving tracks define life and often inspire a sense of hope for Brownell.
“The music does a lot for me. Oftentimes, I wonder if I’m just a guy screaming in the corner of the room,” he said, a wry smile forming on his face. “I long for that connection … music does that for me.”
And judging by the crowds, his music is working.
He regularly captivates audiences at Drifa Brewing Company in Marquette with standout performances.
“Drifa Brewing Company has loved having Bradley play at the Brewery. He always brings in a crowd and no one ever wants him to stop at the end of the night,” the company said in a recent social media post. “He is a pleasure to work with and everyone leaves with a smile on their face.”
Brian Talus, who sits on the Drifa board of directors agrees. “Bradley is one of Marquette’s finer single-artist performers. He is a must-see, no matter where he is playing. His style and sound are perfect for a relaxing night out or dancing with a group of friends.”
Talus said music fans won’t be disappointed if they go to see Brownell.
“The people at Drifa are unbelievable,” said Brownell, who — when not performing — volunteered his time and talents at Drifa to help build an indoor stage. “I would do open mic nights, and they would push me to do more. Give us an hour. Give us two hours. The next thing I know I end up in Grand Rapids for this really big event and they showed up at the motel … just to be there to support me. It’s been amazing.”
Brownell, who has two sons ages 14 and 21, will watch other artists play, but you won’t find him listening to the radio.
“I’ve had my Jeep for two years and I don’t even know how to turn the radio on,” he said matter-of-factly. “I’ve got my own music, my own playlist … I can’t tell you the last time I listened to the radio.”
So, what does Brownell like to do when he’s not performing?
“Practicing music,” he deadpanned. “I’m always working with gear, getting better at learning my equipment. I spent a lot of time on my equipment in the military. I’m tortured at times.”
He does like to frequent a pool hall from time to time and shoot billiards with his younger son. And he proudly exclaims that he probably ranks “in the Top 7 of Donkey Kong players in Marquette!”
He recently purchased an electric piano and is now learning to read music. Eventually, down the country road, he’s hoping he can hook up with a bassist and drummer to create a three-piece unit.
For now, though, he’s loving moving audiences at his weekend gigs.
“I don’t have any aspirations,” he said. “I feel like everything I’ve been able to do thus far has been a blessing. I’m thrilled with it and want to hold onto it as long as I can.
“I’m really taken back by that in only having played for three years. It blows me away to get an invite in the first place. And then to continually get asked back? It’s pretty mind-blowing.”
His advice for aspiring, young musicians?
“Don’t stop. Just don’t ever stop,” he said. “Find something that you really love and that moves you. You don’t have to play what everyone else is playing.”
MM
Jim LaJoie was a newspaper sportswriter and sports editor from 1986 to 1996. He is an award-winning sports columnist for The U.P. Catholic. LaJoie lives with his family in Marquette.
Jason Limberg: A prints among artists the arts
By Brad Gischia
Aspinning carousel of wooden-handled chisels. Closeups of two fingers pushing the sharpened blades through the medium and tiny whorls of vinyl curling out of the medium. Rolling ink across the finished product and pulling a heavy piece of paper up to reveal the final print.
This doesn’t seem like appointment television — unless you’re one of the nearly 50,000 followers on Instagram and 68,000 on Facebook watching Jason Limberg work.
Limberg is a printmaker, meaning that he makes prints from a specially designed block or plate. The videos that see so much love online are of him carving those blocks, often one tiny, stippled point at a time.
“It depends on the piece,” Limberg said. “But often I have more than 40 hours of carving time into a block.”
Limberg lived in Crandon, Wisconsin, through high school, then moved to Green Bay for college. After getting a degree in human biology, he bounced around at a few different jobs before landing in Milwaukee, where he met his wife. As most artists do, he was struggling to find his own artistic path. His early inspiration — Fievel from “An American Tale” — led to comic books, which led to tattoos. During this time, he was drawing, and he began to experiment with graphite and ink.
“We finally got to the point where we were kind of over living in the city,” said Limberg, who has family in the Upper Peninsula. “We found an old farmhouse to rent in Skandia, so we hopped in a U-Haul and came up.”
That was 2011. Limberg said it was the perfect place for them at that time. “It was on 40 acres, the only house on this mile-long dirt road,”
he said. “It was a pretty isolated little place. It was awesome. We just took the chance. We liked the idea of forests and animals. We’ve loved it since then.”
They moved to Sawyer about eight years ago. It was during the pandemic that he found printmaking.
“I had a friend who lent me his tools and told me to try it,” Limberg said. “I did and was hooked.”
As artists do when they find a new medium, Limberg began to experiment, using different textures to imitate his comfort zone of penand-ink drawings.
“There was a moment where it all clicked,” Limberg said.
That was about four years ago. Since then Limberg has been churning out pictures of the flora and fauna that inspire him. “Once I started printmaking and linocuts, it really started to feel like home to me,” Limberg said. “That’s where I was
Jason Limberg’s art is inspired by the outdoors. (Photo by Jason Limberg)
meant to be creating.”
Since Limberg began trying to pursue art professionally, he said his style has drastically changed. “It used to be very abstract, more graffiti oriented, with a lot of human figures and very chaotic,” Limberg said. Now with the Upper Peninsula as inspiration, he finds ideas in nature.
“I guess I’m usually thinking about stories while I’m carving,” Limberg said. “Animals, habitats, conservation, I want to make these images where I’m connected to the animals and animal lovers, to get people to think about nature in a more protective way. I don’t want to hit you over the head with it, but to create connections with others.”
Marlene Wood is the director of Zero Degrees Gallery in Marquette, an art co-op that will soon be featuring Limberg’s work.
“Not only does he have some phenomenal expertise in his drawings and carving ability, but he adds a magical extra to everything he does,” Wood said. “By either doing super-realism or adding a magical environment, he brings it all together in each piece.”
Wood said that Limberg’s talent for story comes through as well.
“Each drawing is not just of an animal, but something that goes beyond
that and tells a story,” Wood said. “He’s really good at telling a story.”
Limberg’s storytelling has not only made him popular on social media, but it has brought in some big clients as well. He’s done work for Dick Blick art supplies, the Michigan-based Shaggy Skis and Stormy Kromer.
“They’re so well known up here,” Limberg said of Kromer. “They just allowed me to create anything I wanted. There were no limitations on what designs had to look like. I always like projects like that.” Limberg’s designs were made into T-shirts that sold online and at the Kromer store.
Limberg said that while working for a huge company like Blick is great, he likes the local jobs just as much if not more.
“They’re contacting me because they like my work, but I really like working with local places,” Limberg said. “It hits close to home. I love seeing people out in the wild with one of my shirts on.”
Each piece requires a huge time commitment, one that starts with a piece of tracing paper.
“I can sketch a lot on tracing paper, refine it and layer ideas easily,” Limberg said. “I spend a lot of time doing layouts, just playing around with it. Once the proportions are done, then I
transfer it with carbon paper to a piece of lino block with a Sharpie or liner.”
Lino block, short for linoleum block, is Limberg’s main medium. It is not the linoleum that some of us grew up pushing Matchbox cars around on. This is all natural, made of cork and linseed oil and is biodegradable.
“There’s no grain in it, so you can cut lines in a bunch of different directions, and it’s smooth. It’s much cleaner than wood for the small stippling work I do,” Limberg said.
After the drawing is transferred Limberg does an India Ink wash over the top to bring the lines into even better focus. Then he begins, with a small chisel, to carve his lines out of the lino block.
“I approach it like I’m drawing with my carving tool,” Limberg said. “I always go into a piece with an idea of how I want it to look, but don’t really know how things will finalize until I’m over halfway through.”
Limberg said he lets each piece develop organically.
“Sometimes it takes me a little longer because of that, but I like it that way,” Limberg said. “In a world that seems to want fast art I want to slow down, take my time and absorb the process.”
Then Limberg takes the finished carving over to a custom-made printing press he has in his studio. It was built downstate by the Conrad Machine Company.
“They make some of the best presses in the world,” Limberg said. “It will be around longer than I will.”
Once on the press, Limberg coats the carving with ink and lays the paper on top, then uses the mechanical power of the press to literally press the two together. Finally, he carefully pulls the paper off, revealing the printed image.
Because of the durability of the lino block, Limberg can literally use it again and again for as long as he wants to.
“The printing process is an art form in itself,” Limberg said. “To get quality prints over and over again is a tough task and the part that I’m learning the most on.” Limberg said that many times he will print an edition, say 50 pieces, and after a week decide that they’re not quite as good as they could be.
“I’m always trying to push myself to learn more, not just settle for what I have,” Limberg said. “Mistakes are OK. You make it work because you really don’t have a choice. The imperfections are what make it human.”
Limberg is like any artist in that not everything works all of the time. Sometimes a print doesn’t come out
Jason Limberg likes the affordability of printing from lino blocks to make art collecting more accessible for enthusiasts. (Photo by Kelly Limberg)
right, too much ink or too little ink or too humid in the room. Maybe a carving isn’t going the way he had hoped. But he’s found that pushing through those times is a reward in itself.
“I try to keep in mind that if I push through, I’ll be a better artist and a better person on the other side,” he said. “I learn a lot from every facet of the process.”
Sometimes the struggle proves to not only be a confidence booster, but also a momentum builder.
“It’s motivating,” Limberg said. “At the end of it, when I‘m done, there’s a lot more satisfaction for me in a piece that I had to work through. Pressure can be so suffocating. I have to remember to allow myself to learn. At the end of the day, it’s only one piece.”
Despite his work being animal-centric, you can see that humanity reflected in his artwork, which has movement and texture despite it being a two dimensional, unmoving piece of paper with ink on it.
“Jason’s work appears three dimensional even though it isn’t,” Wood said. “It’s part of why we are so happy
to have his work in our gallery.”
Limberg said he likes that people can collect his work due to the inexpensive nature of the medium.
“I like to think of it as the people’s medium,” Limberg said. “One of the things that lured me to it as a professional artist is that I can make original, high-quality prints that are affordable for the majority of people. I love the idea that I can make original art that people can afford and want to see hanging in their home.”
Over the years, Limberg has made countless drawings. His favorite always seems to be the one that is currently under his chisel. “Unless it’s a long project — and then the next one is my favorite,” Limberg said. “It’s always exciting to move on.”
Typical of many artists, Limberg has plans for future projects.
“I always have ideas for the next piece, the next five pieces, but I try not to hold fast to that,” Limberg said. “I want to let the ideas come organically, let it develop through your individual voice. Often one piece inspires the next.”
Also on the block for Limberg
Limberg enjoys the process to make each print and said his customers appreciate the resulting affordable product. (Photo by Kelly Limberg)
is a foray in the world of sculpting. “It’s kind of the next natural step,” Limberg said. “Linocut is a good bridge between drawing and sculpting, and I think it would be so cool to start making a few more three-dimensional works.”
Until his wood sculpture debut, you can find videos of his linocut and printmaking work on Instagram and Facebook by searching his name, or go to his website jasonlimberg.com to purchase original shirts and prints, as well as stopping by the Zero Degrees Gallery in Marquette.
“We’re thrilled to have him join the gallery,” Wood said. “We don’t have anything like him in there right now.”
Wood said printmaking is gaining popularity every day.
“It’s different. It shows expertise in a world that people aren’t used to,” Wood said. “Now people are looking for something new and exciting. The printing press has been around for a gazillion years, but the artform hasn’t been in the forefront before. It brings something new. Jason is really adding something to the gallery here.”
Limberg said the allure of his craft is in the making.
“I personally feel that a big reason my stuff does so well on social
media is that it shows the handmade process,” Limberg said. “People like seeing things that are slow-crafted. There’s a lot of pressure to fill online posting quotas, it’s a fast-paced world, and here you are sharing something that takes time. It is time-consuming, takes a skillset and has craftsmanship. That scratches an itch for a lot of people, I think.”
That social media presence has helped Limberg’s art go around the world.
“I’m surprised at how far away I send art,” Limberg said. He has sent prints to Europe, Finland and Australia. “My art travels far more than I do.”
Having artists like Limberg in the area, who draw from nature and transfer that to printed form is inspiring.
“It’s one thing to create, but there’s another joy in knowing that it’s in people’s lives,” Limberg said. “It’s building connections with other people. That’s very important to me.” MM
Brad Gischia is a writer and artist native to Upper Michigan. He has published two children’s books and done illustrations for both comic books and novels.
Jason Limberg’s linocut art currently is on display and for sale at Zero Degrees Gallery in Marquette. (Photo by Jason Limberg)
in the outdoors
Swan numbers increasing in U.P.
“Hear the music, the thunder of the wings. Love the wild swan.”
—Robinson Jeffers
By Scot Stewart
The sight of a pair of large, completely white, long-necked birds swimming slowly, sideby-side, can be breathtaking. As an ever-increasing opportunity rises in northern Michigan, many questions may arise. Which swans are they? Where are they from and how did they get here? Will they be hanging around? Swans are becoming more and more common in the Upper Peninsula., much to the delight of nearly all wildlife lovers.
Scandinavians have long had a close relationship with swans. Three different swans can be found in
northern Europe and Russia. These majestic waterbirds, the largest in Europe and North America, inspired composers and authors alike. One of Russia’s Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s best-known works is “Swan Lake,” a ballet written between 1875 and 1876 about a princess turned into a swan. The libretto, or text used for the ballet, has some similarities with both German and Russian folk tales. Jean Sibelius, a Finn, composed “The Swan of Tuonela,” a musical tone poem in the Lemminkäinen Suite, finished in 1896. Han Christian Anderson’s fairy tale, “The Ugly Duckling,” a story of a mute swan was published in 1843 about a swan egg hatched in a duck’s nest and reared as a duckling, eventually maturing into a beautiful swan.
Much of that admiration was brought to this country by immigrants
from Europe and is still embraced today. Indigenous peoples also hold swans with high regard, recognizing their beauty in the natural world and sometimes connecting them to the spirit world.
Swans are the largest waterbirds that include ducks and geese. They can weigh up to 30 pounds and have wingspans up to around 7.5 feet. There are only eight species of swans worldwide, with three of them showing up regularly in the Upper Peninsula. Seven of the eight are white, with only the black swan in the Southern Hemisphere being different.
The stories of each of the three in the Upper Peninsula is quite different. Tundra or whistling swans are migrants showing up most often as they pass through in the autumn, although a few do occasionally stop in
the spring, too, as they travel from their winter range mostly along the Atlantic Coast around Chesapeake Bay to the far reaches of Alaska and northern Canada in the summer. Some also winter on the Pacific Coast and in some isolated inland sites.
Mute swans are probably the most perplexing of the Upper Peninsula’s swans. Native of North Africa, northern Europe and Russia, they were introduced into parks and private holdings in British Columbia in 1889, Michigan in 1919, Illinois in 1971, Pennsylvania, the Hudson Valley and Long Island, NY in the 1880s, with secondary releases of around 500 more from 1910 to 1912. Populations have become firmly established in all those locations.
The adults are truly elegant and were the inspiration for the afore-
Trumpeter swans were welcomed into Seney Wildlife Refuge and can be seen across in the U.P. like this one on Dead River. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
mentioned musical scores, stories and folktales. Their pure white plumage, contrasting orange bills, graceful S-shaped necks and wings often held slightly open to suggest “an about to take off” look, combined with their strong pair bonding that has come to symbolize loving couples, captured the adoration of Europeans for centuries. Their attraction is not hindered by the figuration of curved necks of a beak-to-beak pair that creates a heartshaped gap.
Mute swans are quick to form pairs, as early as their first year. They may claim a nesting territory by their second year, but usually don’t start nesting until they are three years old. Once their territory is defined, the pair is quite aggressive in protecting it, not just from other swans but from other species of waterfowl, too. The protected area grows even larger with the hatching of eggs.
Unfortunately, like many other introduced, non-native species they come with baggage. Mute swans are voracious consumers of aquatic vegetation. Various studies have indicated they can consume four to eight pounds of aquatic plants per day, often uprooting entire plants to eat, severely reducing plant populations like pondweed available for other species such as ducks. Because of their large size, their aggressive behavior protecting nesting territories can be extreme, driving more than waterbirds from areas around their nests. Swans are known to attack perceived threats like large predators, pedestrians and even kayaks and canoes. In 2012, a
mute swan was responsible for a kayak incident causing a 37-year-old man to fall into the water. The swan apparently made it impossible for him to escape and he drowned as he attempted to make his way to the shore.
In areas along the eastern Atlantic, swans have been known to drive other bird species like black skimmers off nesting sand bars and trample least tern nests. Because of public affection for swans, control of these invasive species, even oiling eggs on nests, has been controversial.
In the U.P., swans are found mostly in the shallows of Lakes Michigan and Huron. During recent years when the lake levels have risen, they have moved away from places like the Lake Michigan shoreline between Gladstone and Escanaba where they have been visible from US-41. In recent years, they have been seen most frequently near the Mackinac Bridge on both lakes during fall migration. Their vocalization ranges from imitations of pigs and angry dogs, hisses and adorable delicate two-part calls that sound like someone sneezing.
The real dilemma for mute swans is how to manage and balance their presence and environmental effects with other aquatic species — both animals and plants. Natural resource departments in most states would like to adopt some kind of plans to reduce their numbers from hunts to egg oiling to prevent eggs from hatching, but most have met with a significant amount of negative reactions from the public. This comes despite the negative effect they have where they
Mute swans can consume four to eight pounds of aquatic plants per day, which can affect other species in the area. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
live. It seems the image of a pair of the swans, beak to beak together, continues to elicit strong connection to a faithful, graceful couple bound in a lifelong partnership — difficult to beat.
“Those who awaken never rest in one place. Like swans, they rise and leave the lake. On the air they rise and fly an invisible course. Their food is knowledge...Who can follow them?”
—Gautama Buddha
The second swan found in the Upper Peninsula is the tundra swan. Formerly called the whistling swan, it has a high-pitched call that sounds like musical snow geese. Tundra swans are migratory visitors to the Upper Peninsula. Like trumpeter swans, they have all black bills as adults but are smaller birds. Adult birds have yellow patches on their cheeks, just behind the bill and next to the eyes. They lack the brownish red stains often found on trumpeter swans after feeding in mineral-rich shallow waters like the kind often found in the U.P.
Most tundra swans stopping in the Upper Peninsula are here during either spring or fall migration. They are not known to spend summers in Michigan. Most tundra swans spend their summers on the tundra of Alaska and northern Canada eastward to Hudson’s Bay. Their primary migration route cuts to North Dakota, through Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Lower Peninsula and across the east to Chesapeake Bay for the winter. Some western summering birds spend their winters on the West Coast through parts of California. Small groups also overwinter in Washington, interior California and
small areas of southwestern Canada. Migration groups often include 25 to 100 birds, with swans often traveling quickly at altitudes up to 27,000 feet.
Those migration trips shed light on the sharp changes they make in their diet. While on the tundra, it is primarily arctic vegetation including grasses, sedges and pondweed. On their migration trip back to Chesapeake Bay, they feed on pondweed, wild celery and arrowhead, all aquatic plants growing in the river shallows and impoundments. In between the Arctic and the Atlantic, they stop in fields in search of dropped corn, soy beans and rice. Once they reach the coast, their diet switches again to clams they dig up in the coastal shallows with their large feet.
Tundra swans have some difficulties getting along with other birds. On the breeding grounds, they may have disagreements with other tundra swans, long-tailed ducks and geese getting too close to nests. Once they reach the Atlantic, they may have problems with gulls trying to steal their food.
Smaller groups are seen occasionally during spring migration in the U.P. Several years ago, a single tundra swan spent a few days at a small pond in Chocolay Township. The pond had just a small amount of human activity and the swan seemed to tolerate it until it finally left.
Tundra swans are the most numerous of the North American swans and include an estimated 280,000 worldwide. They are the smallest of the trio of swans, and besides their vocalizations, size and their small yellow face patches, size may help identify them when they are on the ground. They range from 13 to 20 pounds; trumpet-
An unusual flock of tundra swans — also known as “whistling swans” — fly over Marquette during spring migration. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
er swans can weigh up to 26 pounds or more. Tundra swans have a wingspan of six to seven feet, with trumpeters up to nearly eight feet. Tundras keep their necks relatively straight, with less curve to them than trumpeter swans. Bill shapes of the two are also subtly different, with the tundra swans curved slightly downward, the trumpeters’ thicker and a bit like a wedge.
“The swan in the pool is singing, And up and down doth he steer, And, singing ever gently ever, Dips under the water clear.”
—Heinrich Heine
The Upper Peninsula has become a comfortable home for trumpeter swans. The “Michigan Breeding Bird Atlas I & II,” published by the Kalamazoo Nature Center, details a journal entry by Antoine de Lamothe de Cadillac from 1701 describing large numbers of swans in Lake St. Claire in July, a time when tundra swans would be on their nesting grounds to the north and mute swans would not have been yet introduced into North America. These seemed sure to be trumpeters. Cadillac was a lieutenant commander in the French army and an explorer. He was assigned to establish a fortification, Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, on the north side of what came to be known as the Detroit River.
Historic reports from these early days need to be examined carefully, as many who recorded them were not experienced ornithologists. Considering it can be extremely difficult to decipher trumpeters from tundra swans, many early accounts may be incorrect. This is especially true as with immature ones, as some markings, like the yellow spots behind the bills of tundra swans, do not appear until they have matured into adults. Size is also
a challenge unless the two species are side by side. Lewis and Clark’s early reports of swans in the west included sightings of both trumpeter and tundra swans, yet confused the two in one report.
Unfortunately, by 1875, one shot in Michigan was one of the last, and by 1900 they were gone all together from the state. The swans had been hunted for food, but also for a surprising number of other uses. The Hudson Bay Company was responsible for much of the market hunting. Their wing feathers were modified and used as writing quill pens. Even Audubon was said to prefer quills from trumpeters for his pens. Other feathers were used for hats just as egret and heron feathers were at the time. Perhaps the most surprising use of swan feathers was to make powder puffs from the light down feathers.
Ironically, trapping beavers and muskrats for the fur trade may have been another important factor responsible for the decline of swans. Trumpeter swans often build their nests atop the lodges of these mammals off in shallow water away from shores preventing predators like raccoons, foxes, bobcats and other predators from reaching eggs and very young cygnets.
“Swans in the winter air A white perfection have”
—W.H. Auden
By 1932, trumpeter swans across the continent were thought to be near extinction, with a population in the Lower 48 States at 69 birds. Specific information on these birds is difficult to come by, but details can be found in “Ducks, Geese and Swans of North America” by Frank C. Bellrose. Thirty-one swans were found in Yellowstone that year; 26 more were
This mute swan posed for a picture in Cedarville. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
located on the Red Rock Lakes in the Centennial Mountains of Montana west of Yellowstone. Three years later it was designated the Red Rock Lakes Migratory Waterfowl Refuge and in 1961 renamed Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Twelve more swans were found that year in other remote locations to round out the 69.
The Yellowstone birds wintered near hot springs where water remained open and temperatures were moderated. Until the advent of snowmobiles, human visitation was extremely limited in the interior of Yellowstone and other areas with hot springs, which provided refuge from hunters during those months.
An interesting turn of events occurred in the 1950s, though, when a series of flights over the Copper River Delta in Alaska resulted in the discovery of large flocks to trumpeters, numbering in the thousands. What resulted was the start of a program to take eggs from these Alaskan birds (when eggs are taken early from nests, it stimulated the pen to lay more eggs).
Eggs have been flown to a variety of places where new populations were desired across the United States. Initially attempts were made to place the eggs in the nests of mute swans with the hope that after hatching the trumpeters would eventually go their own way. Early trials were not very successful.
The next step was to hatch the eggs in captivity with trumpeters, like the
ones at the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, part of Michigan State. Forty-four two-year-old swans were taken to Seney National Wildlife Refuge between 1992 and 1994 and released, beginning the reintroduction process for swans in the Upper Peninsula.
The reintroduction has been a success. A summer trip to the refuge provides an amazing opportunity to find trumpeter swans. Pens are on nests by early-May and the cobs (males) are always nearby. By early June the eggs have hatched and a half dozen fluffy, white cygnets are circling around the pair, figuring out how to catch insects on the water and eventually learning how to dip their heads into the muddy, shallow water to nibble on pondweed and other aquatic plants.
Wandering around along the Marshland Drive, walking the closed roads or hiking along the refuge’s trails can reveal swans tooting their deep horn-like calls to announce their presence, their displeasure of other swans getting too close to their mates or young or just trying to figure where others are. A loop of their windpipe draped over a bony protuberance in their sternums is responsible for the deeper resonance in their calls.
The yodels of common loons, the morning whoops of Wilson’s snipes, the prehistoric calls of sandhill cranes and the sharp calls of Caspian terns add to the chatter. Even the sounds of swans leaving a pool can be heard from a great distance — their huge
A tundra swan enjoys the green at a golf course in Marquette while passing through during spring migration. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
feet flapping across the water’s surface resonates for up to 300 feet as they gain the speed they need to lift up into the air.
“There’s a double beauty whenever a swan Swims on a lake with her double thereon.”
—Thomas Hood
Swan families are most commonly seen on the quiet, smaller pools in the refuge. There are a number of advantages to keeping to the smaller bodies of water when raising a family. Swan families rarely make it through the entire summer holding on to all of their young. Danger lurks above and below the quiet surface of those ponds. Northern pike and large snapping turtles are a danger for young swans, some able to swallow an entire newly hatched cygnet quite quickly. One of the reasons for the Fishing Loop section of the Marshland Drive is that it allows pike of smaller sizes to be caught and kept by people fishing to reduce their numbers and help swans and other waterfowl young.
From above, bald eagles are a threat. They are able to quickly drop down to the water and snatch a young bird. Last year an average of 100 trumpeters were found on the refuge. Twenty-eight pairs produced only 17 hatchlings, and of those only four fledged this year, showing just how tough it can be to raise cygnets.
On the larger pools, the “teenagers” can be seen. They may begin to pair up at age two, but often wait up to two more years before breeding. Immatures often spend summer days feeding in the larger pools at the refuge, where they will not get into disagreements with mated pairs. Even a flyover of a pond or pool near a
family will necessitate at least a loud trumpeting from the imposing male sometimes with wings spread to let passersby know the area is claimed. In those large pools, up to 60 swans may be seen, spread out dabbling in the shallows.
Once a pair bond has been cemented, the pair will stay together for some time, but may not stay together for life. Like other long-lived pairs of other birds seen at Seney — loons and eagles, especially — it is often difficult to identify specific birds unless they are banded or marked and studied extensively enough to watch them for many years. The oldest known trumpeter swan in the wild was at least 26 years old. One in captivity lived to the age of 32.
There is a limited number of prime nesting areas for mature trumpeter swans to nest at the refuge. Not only is shallow water with a fair amount of aquatic plants both above and below the water line a plus, high areas surrounded by water, small islands, beaver dams and lodges also provide the type of locations needed to build nests.
As some reach breeding age, they disperse and search out other ponds and small lakes in the U.P. to find those suitable places to raise a family and increase the population of the species. Many other states across the country have developed their own reintroduction plans over the decades leading to a wide distribution of swans across the country, from California to the East Coast.
As slivers of ice ease across the pools at Seney, the swans begin to move to areas with open water all winter. Early in the reintroduction process in the U.P., many of those swans only needed to go a few miles to the south and overwinter on the
A mute swan duo make the signature heart pose; mute swans are known to pair off as early as their first year of life. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
Manistique River and open areas of Indian Lake near Manistique. Other good sites were found as they began to disperse westward. Trout Lake in Alger County is spring fed and usually has ample open water there all winter, where more than 50 swans can be found in some winters.
This winter a group of five swans, a pair with three young, has continued a stay on Dead River in Marquette. Over the past five years or so, small numbers of trumpeter swans have appeared on the Dead, mostly above the Tourist Park Lake in winter and all the way to the mouth when there is open water. Most times, they would stay a few days, occasionally two weeks or more, before disappearing.
Since last summer, swans have been on the river almost continuously. They seem to have adapted to life with up to 500 mallards, common goldeneyes and a lively family of river otters also living on the river.
Prime feeding grounds in winter for all are the shallows, known locally as the Dead River Marshes between the diesel plant on Powder Mill Road and the river mouth at Lakeshore Boulevard.
The swans can often be seen feeding together from the bridge at the mouth. During times of deep cold when the marsh waters freeze over, the swans and ducks can simply move up river and can be seen often from the north end of Granite Street.
While there was a bit of evidence
the swans may have nested in the area, only on one or two occasions were young seen on the river last summer. Wildlife lovers are watching this group of swans carefully to see what they will do this spring as the ice peels back and they decide if there is a suitable, quiet spot for nesting and raising young.
“Sometimes I’ll go by and there are a couple of swans, the next day it’s a few ducks. I’d like to stop there every day for a year and capture how it changes, then put it all together to create an incredible image of a traditional English scene.”
—Graeme LeSaux
Withthe increased number of swan sightings at places like the Dead River and other small connecting creeks, ponds and small lakes in the U.P., the joy of seeing them has become more of a regular treasured moment for those in the outdoors.
The belief that these beautiful, pure white birds are nearly inseparable as they swim, preen, feed and raise their young together brings a deep connection with animals able to make such strong commitments to their mates.
MM
Scot Stewart is an educator, writer and photographer with an inherent love of the natural world. He is active with the MooseWood Nature Center at Presque Isle Park in Marquette.
Answers for the New York Times crossword puzzle, located on Page 11
on campus
Theater students win awards in festival
Three Northern Michigan University Theatre & Dance students earned awards at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival’s (KCACTF) Region 3 conference in Madison.
Mark Simons from Cadillac became the second NMU student ever to advance to nationals at the Kennedy Center with a win in the Musical Theater Intensive.
Maya Moreau of Dearborn, who made history last year as the first from NMU to advance to nationals, won the Classical Acting Award.
Liam Fisher of Grand Rapids received a scholarship to attend the Open Jar Institute, New York City’s premiere Broadway actor training program, this summer.
“There were hundreds of students who entered the first round,” said Kaitlyn Frotton, NMU faculty who accompanied the delegation of 11 NMU students. “Mark and five oth-
er Northern students made it to the second semifinal round, which was amazing, and then he won the whole thing. He’ll compete with the winners from all of the regionals at the Kennedy Center in April and maybe win some scholarship money.”
NMU Assistant Professor Kristen Beth Ludwig also accompanied the students to Madison and was responsible for coordinating the MTI. She scheduled initial auditions for 118 students in two sub-categories and found guest artists to work with students and serve as judges.
“We have really expanded the vocal department in NMU Theatre & Dance, so all of our students received excellent coaching prior to getting to the festival,” Ludwig said.
NMU graduate Gianna Bratke also was nominated for the festival’s costume parade for her design of Northern’s production of “Puffs” last year.
NMU alumni part of Oscar-nominated films
NMU
alumni played important roles in two of the 2025 Academy Award nominees for Best Animated Feature Film.
Three were involved in Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2, ” the highest-grossing animated film in history: Kelsey Mann (’98), director; Dan Scanlon (’87), executive producer; and Neil Helm (’05), lead supervising crowds animator.
NMU graduate Joshua Brock (’09) served as modeling lead for “The Wild Robot, ” DreamWorks Animation’s nominee in the same category. The Oscars are presented March 2.
Mann earned a BFA in illustration from NMU. While “Inside Out 2” marks his first feature film directing credit, he has been involved in many previous projects. Mann served as story supervisor for Pixar Animation’s “Monsters University,” “The Good Dinosaur” and “Onward” and was part of the creative team for Disney’s “Lightyear.”
Scanlon is Pixar’s vice president of creative. He began as a storyboard
artist on the award-winning feature films “Cars” and “Toy Story 3,” and made his animated feature directorial debut in 2013 with “Monsters University.” He also co-wrote and directed the 2020 film “Onward,” with NMU alumna Catherine Apple (’84) as lead editor and served as executive producer on “Soul.”
Helm is a supervising crowds animator at Pixar. Some of the projects he has worked on include “Lightyear,” “Coco,” “Toy Story” (3 and 4) and “Up.” He also worked with Mann on “Monsters University.”
Brock serves as a visual development artist for DreamWorks Animation and, according to his LinkedIn profile, is working on the upcoming “Shrek 5.” He joined the studio eight years ago as a modeler, then advanced to modeling lead, his role on “The Wild Robot.” Brock previously worked as a character modeler for Nickelodeon Animation, where he contributed to the TV series “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”
poetry Eve Asks the Serpent for a Story
By Lynn Domina
He began by telling her about rain, how some is soft, barely mist against her arm, how some days her hot skin will welcome its moisture but how other times it is fierce, frightening, loud as peacocks or elephants, how it rushes like owls, muddying rivers until you can’t see trout or wide-mouth bass or painted turtles. He told her about a time when rain never stopped, when water swirled above the whole land. She could have seen, if she’d been there, ripples ring her knees, she could have felt her waist looped by flood. Sometimes, he said, frightening is another word for exciting. Then he described how raindrops linger on leaves or a grasshopper’s wing or an apple’s red skin, glimmering, the apple beautiful as ruby but still sweet, still plump with juice, still soft on her tongue. He was right, she knew, he was right, as soon as she took the fruit, bit into its ripe flesh.
Lynn Domina is the author of several books, including three collections of poetry: Inland Sea, Framed in Silence and Corporal Works. She serves as creative writing editor of The Other Journal and teaches English at NMU. She received the 2024 Writer of the Year Award for the City of Marquette.
This poem is from the 10-year anthology, Superior Voyage, which is available for purchase.
All proceeds benefit Peter White Public Library.
“Superior Voyage” was selected as a 2023 U.P. Notable Book by the Upper Peninsula Publishers & Authors Association.
Book offers great tales for boat enthusiasts superior reads
By Victor Volkman
“Five Seasons on Steel Decks” is a ride-along journey with author Andre Pichette as he progresses from a greenhorn deckhand to watchman and journeyman wheelsman on the Inland Steel fleet.
Pichette finally gets his Letter of Intent to Hire from Inland Steel after demon-dialing all twelve Great Lakes shipping companies during the course of many weeks. With letter in hand, he applies for his Merchant Marine Documents (MMD) from the U.S. Coast Guard and so then becomes an eligible hire in the spring of 1989. He finally boards the SS Wilfred Sykes at Port Inland, which is about halfway between Pichette’s hometown of Escanaba and St. Ignace. Arriving with the rank of Ordinary Seaman (OS), he is issued everything he will need to perform his duties as deckhand: hardhat, gloves and shovel. Over the course of five shipping “seasons” (years), he will serve on all three of Inland Steel’s boats: SS Wilfred Sykes, MV Joseph L. Block and the SS Edward L. Ryerson, Inland’s own “Queen of the Lakes.”
There are a number of uncanny similarities between Pichette’s life and my own. We were both born in 1964, we are both fans of railroads and both grew up building HO-scale model railroads. Yes, I’ll admit it, I come from a legit family of boat nerds. My father was in the Merchant Marine during World War II and also did some time on the lake freighters and eventually ended up in the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 12-12. Although we had what we thought was the ultimate perch for freighter watching, I will concede that the U.P. has many superior places to get close to the big boats — from the Straits of Mackinac up through Detour and the St. Mary’s River, just to name a few. Growing up our home base was Three Mile Park in Grosse Pointe which is a chokepoint on the Detroit River as it opens out into Lake St. Clair.
From the docks, the river was barely a half-mile wide, meaning the freighters were often less than 1,000 feet away and we could read the ship nameplates readily on the downbound ships. Many of the boats I remember from childhood days — such as the Roger Blough, the Lee Tregurtha and the massive thousand-footer, Stew-
art J. Cort — were brought to mind or even had a cameo appearance in Pichette’s book. The inner workings of these boats were entirely mysterious for my whole life — until I read Pichette’s book.
Although Pichette only docked three times at Marquette Harbor, he traversed the Soo Locks 130 times during his five-year stint with Inland Steel. We know this only because he kept a meticulous diary of every port he visited, including how much material was loaded or unloaded along the way. His crewman’s log is a useful tool for his memory in writing this memoir some 30 years after he stepped on to “the beach” for the final time.
Pichette always puts you squarely in the scene, whether he is involved in the continual required shipboard busywork, helping break ice off the deck with a sledgehammer, standing the oh-so-monotonous anchor watch, or wheeling up the St. Mary’s River to lock through. Inland Steel did business up and down Lake Michigan, starting with a half dozen different ports of call in Chicagoland with stops at Milwaukee, Green Bay, Escanaba, Port Inland and, at the far end of Lake Superior, docking at Duluth, Two Harbors and Taconite Harbor. Once in a while, Inland Steel would go around the horn and into Lake Huron as far as
Rogers City or Alpena.
But all boat-nerding aside, it is the human story that makes “Five Seasons on Steel Decks” such a fascinating read. Although you’re never more than 60 miles from the coast of Lake Michigan, being shipboard in the late ’80s and early ’90s, you might as well be in the middle of the Atlantic. In 1989, very expensive bag phonetype cellphones were just rolling out, not that you could get reception on the lake. Ship-to-shore phone calls were too expensive for casual calling, and the internet was still several years off. That meant sailors were mostly writing letters or dashing for the nearest portside payphone during a brief layover. Pichette’s friends slowly drifted away, as you can’t really have a relationship with someone who rolls into town for a week every two months or so.
A typical freighter would have a crew of about 26 guys, and yes they were all guys during those five years with the exception of a brief stay from a woman intern. About 12 of them would be assigned to various roundthe-clock shifts as wheelsman, oiler, watchman or mates. So really there wasn’t that much choice for socializing in the tiny rec rooms where endless poker games took place. The ever-present VCRs with VHS libraries were one way to while away the hours. Pichette had the skills and tools to do a certain amount of scale-model building to while the off-duty time away. Freighter crews seem to always have one eccentric guy who might have extremely poor hygiene or mild psychological problems. This ranged from a harmless guy who was believed to have no home address outside of the fleet, nicknamed “The Ayatollah,” to the mass murderer Richard Speck, an Inland Steel employee who killed eight nurses in one night in the summer of 1966.
Seeing the freighters moving majestically through the lakes, I never really understood how short the trips were. Even making just 15 knots, you
are going to traverse about 360 miles in 24 hours. This means you can go from Chicago to Duluth in about three days — that’s the longest normal lake freighter run, except for mechanical breakdowns, bad weather and various problems. Some trips were even as short as a daytrip or even five miles. In the U.S. Navy, if a captain runs aground, that’s a career-ending move. In the freighter fleet, it meets a delay while waiting for a Coast Guard inspection and then back to drydock possibly for repairs.
Through all of this is the inexorable grind of loading and unloading different types of cargoes and scraping out the hold in between with Caterpillar bulldozers so as not to cross-contaminate the loads. Here the deckhands ply their shovels cleaning up the slop that the larger conveyors cannot manage. And the mess topside must be hosed off with three deckhands manning a firehouse to clean the decks. According to Pichette, the deckhands are always busy, even when at sea: if it is sunny outdoors then deckhands will be painting, otherwise they will “soogie” (swab) the decks with a bucket of water and some Ajax.
I’ve only begun to scratch the surface on what’s in store for you in “Five Seasons on Steel Decks.” I highly recommend this book for anyone with a nautical bent or even just those who wonder what’s really going on in those freighters that quietly slip up and downbound the waters of the Great Lakes. Certainly, if you’ve ever wondered if a shipboard career is for you, Pichette’s book ought to be required reading.
Victor R. Volkman is a 1986 graduate of Michigan Tech and is the current president of the U.P. Publishers & Authors Association. He is senior editor at Modern History Press and publisher of the U.P. Reader.
HOW TO SUBMIT A BOOK
Send Upper Peninsula-related book review suggestions to victor@LHPress.com. Books submitted for review can be sent to: MM Book Reviews, 5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.
spirit of water
Dandelions on the lawn of empire
Editor’s Note: This article is the seventh in a series by the Interfaith 202425 Water Stewards Initiative, a collaboration of area faith communities with local municipalities and Native American tribes to protect and preserve the quality of accessible drinking water. A part of this Initiative, alongside regional efforts, is assisting in establishing a village well in Tanzania and a community well in Cambodia. Visit cedartreeinstitute.org for details.
By Lanni Lantto
My mother passed down a story that has remained with me. She recalls that as a young girl, her grandmother would pick dandelions from the church lawn after mass to bring home and cook for her family. I remember thinking, “People eat dandelions? Aren’t they weeds?”
My great-grandmother Nellie transitioned at the age of 110 years old. My mother and I, along with my grandfather Paul, would make trips to the Italian neighborhoods of Sault Ste. Marie (Bawating in Ojibwe). In her long smock apron, she would take me out to her small garden that bordered an old alley. She showed me her tomatoes and beautiful colorful array of flowers, but sadly, one thing we never did together was eat dandelions. I wish she would’ve passed on her knowledge to me because I spent the majority of my life being taught that they were, by their nature, delinquent beings.
My teachers were the cultural narratives with the loudest most dominant voices. The language of empire encompassed politics, religion, history and even the food pyramid. I navigated their narratives with a mix of blind trust and guarded skepticism. Within empire, dysfunction shapeshifts so deceptively that one can assimilate into the muck without knowing they are even in it. It can be really hard to find healthy soil. So, I left the trappings and walls of empire and entered into the wilderness.
To truly know what a dandelion was, I had to spend time with them. I watched how its waterproof seed head dispersed seeds over considerable odds. It resiliently burst through the concrete of our retaining wall; it grew back after being mowed over,
The Spirit of Water Health, Hope & Healing
it offered a haven to the pollinating bees, and my daughter would poke the circular droplets of water that formed atop the yellow bouquet with her fingertip. She giggled as she saw her own reflection within the water, and it was as if her soul was meeting healthy soil.
There was no dominant voice telling me what to believe, no TV, no black screens separating me from this true reality. There was no manipulation or polarizing sides; it was neither “right” nor “wrong.” It simply was. It was fulfilling its purpose within a wider ecosystem simply by being alive (and dying). The dandelion grows in a place devoid of labels and names such as “dandelion.”
Within the natural world, there exists a water purification system filtering out bacteria through layers of soil, sand and rock. It becomes purified at its roots so it can become a source of health and healing. Its presence illuminates an alternative path within the world where a weed becomes a remedy.
The dandelion doesn’t get to choose where it grows. It must take its inner knowledge with it wherever it lands. It can grow on a manicured lawn alongside a blue campaign sign, it can grow on a wild lawn alongside a red campaign sign. That is because there is a deep ancient wisdom within each seed that transcends empire. It’s the kind of remedy that I want to partake of — the kind I want to tell my children about — that to be a healing dandelion is to be able to grow in all types of landscapes and be therapeutic without barriers.
As I sat among the dandelions, I was allowing them to become my new teachers. I asked for their ability to grow alongside “sides” without judgment, to be emptied of the emotion-
al attachment that kept me fenced in by anxiety and depression, rage and grief. As well intentioned as the food pyramid guidance was supposed to be, in reality it was killing a part of me. To be a dandelion on the lawn of empire is to rise above dysfunction in all its forms. Those are the dandelions to water.
I’m a part of a circle where we have water present in the form of hot tea. Each one of us is grateful for that refreshment, although we each may choose a different tea variety — dandelion included. I’m not sure which part of empire each of us has been developed by, but I do know that we are all there seeking healing. We know that the only ones we can truly change are ourselves.
So, we are committed to the daily hard task of purifying our roots, to look at what formed us and how we became who we are and then, from that understanding, move towards who we want to be. It’s the most counter-cultural task of our lifetimes: to become the remedy and pass on the wisdom of the dandelion to our children.
Lanni Lantto is curator of the local non-profits U.P. Wild Church and Shepherds of the Wilderness. She and her family are currently breaking the cycles of generational dysfunction and helping others do the same through community healing circles.
The Interfaith Water Stewards Initiative works to celebrate and protect the joy of pure water. (Photo courtesy of Cedar Tree Institute)
out & about
Out & About is a free listing of Upper Peninsula events. Events included must cost $25 or less (except fundraisers).
All events are free and in Eastern time unless noted. We print information sent to us by a wide variety of people and organizations. It pays to double check the date, time, place and cost before heading out.
E-mail your April events by Monday, March 10 to: calendar@marquettemonthly.com.
end of february events
• Curious about Solo Travel? Tips and Stories from Experienced Travelers. Danise Jarvey and Lois Blau will share their travel experiences, thoughts about why they enjoy it so much and tips for planning a successful trip. Sponsored by the Friends of the Calumet Public Library. 6:30 p.m.
Community Room, Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Adult Horror Book Club (Nonfiction Edition). The selection will be “Dark Archives” by Megan Rosenbloom. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
Calumet
Art Adventures | March 8 | Marquette
Courtesy of Lake Superior Art Association
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for babies up to 17 months with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Congregate Meals for Seniors–Dine in or Curbside Pickup. Meals available to those age 60 and older and their spouses. Call to reserve a meal. $3.50 suggested donation. Noon to 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• Adult Nonfiction Book Group. The group is for people who enjoy reading narrative nonfiction that tell stories of the past, present and future. This month’s selection will be “The Age of Magical Overthinking” by Amanda Montell. 2 p.m. Conference Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Teens Cook! Teens in sixth through 12th grades will learn easy-to-prepare recipes. Online registration is required.
4 p.m. Marquette Food Co-op, 502 W. Washington St. To register, pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Dragons of Wrenly. Youth of all ages who enjoy the “Dragons Kindome of Wrenly” graphic novels can participate in themed activities. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• After-school Middle School Group. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
27 THURSDAY sunrise 7:33 a.m.; sunset 6:32 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Crochet Club. This is a time to gather with fellow crafters to socialize. Supplies and instruction will be provided for those who are interested in learning how to crochet. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Open Book. This new program for tweens and teens, also known as “Fun
Club,” will feature drop-in activities such as crafts, movies and more. 4 to 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories and songs will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult, followed by sensory play activities. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Tech Coaching for Seniors. Learn how to make your electronic devices work with the help of retired teacher and librarian Christine Ault. Ensure your device is charged and bring passwords with you. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” NMU Theatre and Dance will present an adaptation by director Jimmy Ludwig with the second week of Yooper deer camp as a backdrop. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; and general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance.
• Finnish Folk Supergroup Frigg. Presented by the Beaumier Heritage Concert Series as part of the 2025 Winter Roots Festival. In advance, NMU students and youth 18 and younger, $10; general public, $20. At the door, NMU students and youth 18 and younger, $12; general public, $22. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. tickets. nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Music, Movement and More. Children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome to attend this parent-led storytime. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session will feature activity stations and early reading and language activities. Parents and caregivers can also connect to share tips and experiences. This week’s theme will be “Wind and Air.” 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
28 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:31 a.m.; sunset 6:33 p.m.
Calumet
• CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Races. Events kick off with a street party
and opening ceremony, followed by the races and fireworks. 5 to 11 p.m. Downtown. copperdog.org.
Escanaba
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Gwinn
• Story Time. Children and families can enjoy stories, crafts and light snacks. 10:30 a.m. Forsyth Township Library, 180 W. Flint St. 906-346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. A guest from Partridge Creek Farms will discuss water cycles and supporting healthy ecosystems at 10:30 a.m. 10 a.m. to noon. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Cultivating Care, Compassion and Connection. This event will offer a safe space to pause, reflect and build connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness. Each week, a different local organization will present educators and leaders who will facilitate a discussion while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. Noon. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Block Busting Cinema: “Lilies of the Field.” In honor of Black History Month, this film follows an itinerant black worker, played by Sidney Poitier, who encounters a group of East German nuns who are convinced God sent him to build a new convent chapel. This film is not rated. Noon. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Piano Masterclass with Hyerim Lee. Hyerim Lee is the Marquette
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts are invited to build projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl. info.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free for ages 50 and older. 7 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
• Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” NMU Theatre and Dance will present an adaptation by director Jimmy Ludwig with the second week of Yooper deer camp as a backdrop. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; and general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance.
march events
Calumet
• CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Races. The day’s events will include the CopperPull weight pull and CopperDash kid’s race. 2 p.m. Downtown. copperdog.org.
Escanaba
• Ink Society Local Writers’ Group. Intended for ages 16 and older. 10:30 a.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Gwinn
• Ice Races. Presented by the Upper Michigan Ice Racing Association. $5 donation per car; day pit passes are available for $10 per person. Spectator gate opens at 10 a.m.; races begin by 11:30 a.m. Forsyth Township Ball Park. uppermichiganiceracing.com.
Ishpeming
• Life Drawing with Paul Olson. Intended for ages 12 and older and no experience is necessary. Basic drawing materials will be provided, but students can bring their own. This is a drop-in class and registration is not required. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered
for babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• How to Turn Children into Survivors When They’re Lost. Michael Neiger, of the MI Back Country Search and Rescue’s (MibSAR’s) Long Range Special Operations Group (LRSOG), will present this program based on his book, “Missing-Person Sourcebook,” and child-safety best practices of national and international organizations. Hosted by MooseWood Nature Center. 1 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-6250 or moosewood.org.
• Marquette Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra will present “Masterworks: Schumann Piano Concerto and Brahms” with guest pianist Hyerim Lee. Tickets prices vary. 7:30 p.m. Kaufman Auditorium, 611 N. Front St. nmu.universitytickets.com.
Rock
• Rock Lions Club Soup or Chili Challenge. Attendees can taste a variety of homemade soup and chili with bread, drinks and cookies. Proceeds will support the Mid Peninsula Wolverine Circuit Breakers Robotics Team #7782. Kids 12 and younger, $5; adults, $10. Noon to 3 p.m. Rock Lions Club, 14454 M-35. 906-280-1417 or 906-241-8566.
02
SUNDAY
sunrise 7:27 a.m.;
Calumet
• CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Races. Mushers in the CopperDog 150 and CopperDog 80 races will cross the finish line on Fifth Street. Downtown. copperdog.org.
Escanaba
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 1:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Ishpeming
• Bingo. Doors open at noon. Ishpeming VFW, 310 Bank St. 906-486-4856.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Negaunee
• North American Championship Race. Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club. 1 p.m. Lucy Hill Luge Run, 230 E. County Rd. upluge.org.
• Dinner with the Doctor: Preserving Your Garden’s Harvest. Ivy Netzel, a retired engineer and avid gardener, will share tips for canning and freezing fruits and vegetables. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session and dinner. 4 p.m. Marquette Seventh-day Adventist Church, 270 U.S. 41 E. 906475-4488 or mqtsdachurch@gmail. com.
03 MONDAY sunrise 7:26 a.m.; sunset 6:37 p.m.
Ishpeming
• Connected at Home: Book Club. In collaboration with the Ishpeming Senior Center, this book club is for people who want to participate from the comfort of their home via phone. This month’s selection is “Drawn Testimony” by Jane Rosenberg. 11 a.m. To register, call 906-485-5527.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• NCLL: An Olympic Adventure. Leo Nolles, an NMU swimmer who represented his native Uruguay in the summer 2024 Olympics in Paris, France, will share his experiences. NCLL members, $5; nonmembers, $10. 11 a.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906225-1004 or hoosieyooper80@gmail. com.
• Ukulele Class. Free for ages 50 and older. Instruments will be provided. 3 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-228-0456.
• Write On. Teens in sixth through 12th grades will enhance and inspire creative expression, and have the opportunity to publish a chapbook of their writing. Registration is required. 4 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 6 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• NEA Big Read Kickoff Event: Teal Lake Drum Circle and John Smolens Keynote. This event will kick off the library’s month-long NEA Big Read Programming based on Roz Chast’s graphic memoir “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” The Teal Lake Drum Circle will open and close the evening and author John Smolens will discuss researching and writing
on the town
Gwinn
• Gwinn Inn.
- Saturday, March 15: Ides of March Toga party with music by Degens. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
170 Flint St. 906-346-9619.
• Hideaway Bar.
- Mondays: The Hideaway All-Stars. 7 p.m.
741 M-35. 906-346-3178.
• The Up North Lodge.
- Saturday, March 15: Polar Plunge. Time to be announced. 215 South CR-557. plungemi.org
Marquette
• 906 Sports Bar and Grill.
- Wednesdays: Trivia. 6:30 p.m. 145 W. Washington St. 906-273-0706 or 906barandgrill.com.
• Blackrocks Brewery.
- Mondays: Trivia. 7 to 9 p.m.
- Wednesdays: Open mic. 6 to 9 p.m
- Saturday, March 1: Bimbo/ Curfews/Addicus. 7 to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, the 8th: Ramble Tamble. 7 to 10 p.m.
424 N. Third St. 906-273-1333 or blackrocksbrewery.com.
• Drifa Brewing Company.
- Mondays: Musicians’ Open Mic. 6 to 8 p.m.
- Thursdays: Trivia. 7 p.m.
- Saturday, March 1: Delta Duo.
- Saturday, the 8th: Jakey Thomas.
- Saturday, the 15th: Big Lake Duo.
- Friday, the 21st: Derrell Syria Project.
- Saturday, the 22nd: Bradley Brownell.
- Friday, the 28th: Greg Sandell.
- Saturday, the 29th: Charlie Reager. Music from 6 to 9 p.m. 501 S. Lake St. 906-273-1300.
• Flanigan’s.
- Mondays through Saturdays: Karaoke. 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- Tuesdays: Open Mic. 7 to 10 p.m. 429 W. Washington St. 906-228-8865.
• Kognisjon Bryggeri.
- Saturday, March 1: Michigan-I-O, presented by Hiawatha Music Co-op
- Sunday, the 30th: Pop Culture Trivia with Jon. 2 p.m. All ages. All shows are free unless noted. 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• Superior Culture.
- Tuesdays: Open Mic night. 8 to 10 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 12: Healthy Happy Hour. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 717 Third St. 906-273-0927 or superiorculturemqt.com.
Negaunee
• Upper Peninsula Brewing Company
- Mondays: Disc golf indoor putting league. 5:30 p.m
- Friday, February 29: Bradley Brownell.7 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 4: Trivia. 7 p.m.
- Tueday, the 18th: Trivia. 7 p.m. 342 Rail St. 906-475-8722.
Republic
• Pine Grove Bar.
- Friday, March 7: Derrell Syria Project. Time to be announced.
- Saturday, the 8th: Pink Violin Band, 3 to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, the 8th: Diversion. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
- Friday, the 14th: Stranded (St. Paddy’s Bash). 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
- Monday, the 17th: Troy Graham. 7 to 10 p.m.
- Friday, the 21st: Emily Kenyon. Time to be announced.
- Saturday, the 22nd: Daryn Reece. 3 to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, the 22nd: 141 North. Time to be announced.
- Friday, the 28th: Brian Nowicki (from Nolium). Time to be announced.
- Saturday, the 29th: Toni Saari. 3 to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, the 29th: Last Call. Time to be announced.
286 Front St. 906-376-2234.
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art galleries
Calumet
• Calumet Art Center. Works by local and regional artists. Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 57055 Fifth St. 906-934-2228. calumetartcenter.com.
• Copper Country Associated Artist. Works by members and workshop participants in watercolor and oil, drawings, photography, sculpture, quilting, wood, textile, clay, glass and other media. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 205 Fifth St. 906-337-1252 or ccaartists.org.
• Gallery on 5th. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Call or visit Facebook for up-to-date store hours. 906-299-0118 or galleryon5th.com.
• My Story Gallery at Keweenaw Storytelling Center. Presented by Real People Media, the gallery shares stories of ordinary residents through multimedia exhibits. Contact for updated hours. 215 Fifth St. 906-9342346 or realpeoplemedia.org.
Curtis
• Erickson Center for the Arts–Waterfront Gallery. The gallery features unique work from local artists, including photography, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, paintings and more. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 906-586-9974 or ericksoncenter. org.
Copper Harbor
• EarthWorks Gallery. Featuring Lake Superior-inspired photography by Steve Brimm. Daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 216 First St. 906-231-6318.
Escanaba
• Besse Gallery. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Days and hours vary. Bay College, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• East Ludington Gallery. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1000 Ludington St. (across the street from the gallery’s previous location). 906-786-0300 or eastludingtongallery.com.
• Hartwig Gallery. Featuring works by local, regional and national artists. Days and hours vary. Bay College, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• William Bonifas Fine Arts Gallery.
“Youth In Art,” featuring nearly 700 pieces of children’s artwork, is on display through the 27th with open houses from 3 to 6 p.m. on the 12th (for kindergarten through fifth grade) and 13th (for sixth through 12th grade). Powers and Studio galleries. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 700 First Avenue South. 906-7863833 or bonifasarts.org.
Hancock
• Finandia Art Gallery.
“Encountering the Invisible,” a printmaking exhibit by Finnish artist Jaana Erkkilä-Hill, is on display through April 16. Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Located in the Finnish American Heritage Center, 435 Quincy St. 906-487-7309 or gallery@finlandiafoundation.org.
• Kerredge Gallery.
“Celebrate Youth Arts Month” will be on display March 4 through 29 with a reception on the 8th. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Copper Country Community Arts Center, 126 Quincy St. 906-482-2333 or coppercountryarts.com.
• Youth Gallery.
“Celebrate Youth Arts Month” will be on display March 4 through 29 with a
reception on the 8th. Featuring works by local students. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Arts Center, 126 Quincy St. 906-482-2333 or coppercountryarts.com.
• Lynn Mazzoleni Studio and Gallery. This is the working studio and retail gallery space of acrylic and oil painter Lynn Mazzoleni, showcasing her original artwork and high-quality reproductions, as well as home décor pieces and unique goods. Tuesday and Thursday, 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 to 6 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 116 Quincy St. info@lynnmazzoleni.com.
Houghton
• The Rozsa Galleries. “Isle Royale Art Exhibition,” featuring works created by artists-in-residence on the island, is on display through March 28. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 to 8 p.m. Rozsa Center,
Ben Bohnsack | Porcupine from Wild Critters Series | DeVos Art Museum
art galleries
1400 Townsend Dr. mtu.edu/rozsa.
Manistique
• Lake Effect Community Arts Center. Works by local and regional artists. Monday through Saturday through the 31st, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 244 Cedar St. info@lakeeffectarts. org.
Marquette
• Art—U.P. Style. Art by Carol Papaleo, works by local artists, gifts, classes and more. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 130 W. Washington St. 906-225-1993.
• DeVos Art Museum.
- “Scholastic Awards Art Exhibition,” will be on display through March 15.
- “The NMU School of Art and Design’s 2025 Faculty Biennial” is on display through March 29th.
-”Critters,” a permanent collection exhibition, highlights the diverse depictions of animals in art, will be on display through January 2026. Monday through Wednesday, and Friday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.; Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Corner of Seventh and Tracy streets. NMU. 906-227-1481 or nmu.edu/ devos.
• The Gallery Marquette. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Suite U7, 130 W. Washington St. thegallerymqt.com.
• Huron Mountain Club Gallery.
“Knowing the Land,” feauturing works by Todd Carter will be on display through March 31. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-0472.
• Lake Superior Photo and Gallery. The studio features landscape photographic art by Shawn Malone, including naturescapes of the Lake Superior region. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 211 S. Front St. 906-228-3686 or lakesuperiorphoto.com.
• Marquette Arts and Culture Center Deo Gallery.
“Feast or Fallow,” featuring mixed media by Emily Weddle and Meredith Weddle D’Amore, is on display through the 31st. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lower level, Peter White
Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-0472.
• Niik Creative Co. Handcrafted and local artisan goods. Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 2905 Island Beach Rd.
• Presque Isle Station. This working pottery studio features pottery by Michael Horton and Terry Gilfoy, along with works by local artists. Days and times vary. 2901 Lakeshore Blvd. 906-225-1695.
• Second Story Studio. This gallery features works by Taryn Okesson and Kurt Babcock Thursday through Saturday, 2 to 6 p.m., and by appointment. Inside the Wattsson and Wattsson Marketplace, 118 B W. Washington St. tarynokesson.com/ second-story-studio.
• Wintergreen Hill Gallery and Gifts. Oil paintings by Ximou Song are on display through the 31st with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on the 8th. Wintergreen Hill Gallery strives to create an immersive art experience for visitors who are looking to buy or just looking for inspiration. Local art by local artists. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 810 N. Third St. 906-273-1374 or wintergreenhill.com.
• Zero Degrees Gallery. Work by pastel artist Kathy Binoneimi is on display through the 31st with a reception from 1 to 4 p.m. on the 8th. The gallery features works in oils, watercolors, mixed media, jewelry, photography, metals, woods, recycled and fiber arts, and more. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 525 N. Third St. 906-228-3058 or zerodegreesgallery.org.
Munising
• UP-Scale Art. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment. 109 W. Superior Ave. 906-387-3300 or upscaleart. org.
Rapid River
• Ritch Branstrom’s adhocWORKshop. Specializing in award-winning found object sculpture. By appointment or chance. 10495 S. Main St. 906-399-1572 or adhocworkshop. com.
Sand River
• Aurelia Studio Pottery. Featuring high fire stoneware, along with functional and sculptural pieces inspired by nature, created by potter and owner Paula Neville. Open by appointment or chance. 3050 E. M-28. 906-343-6592.
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about history and historical personages to understand who we are and where we live. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• The Joy of Sound Meditation. This meditation uses the sounds produced by bronze singing bowls and metallic gongs. 7 p.m. Chapel, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. 906-362-9934 or ckitchenmqt@gmail. com.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
04 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:24 a.m.; sunset 6:39 p.m.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Houghton
• Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Dinner and Live Jazz. Featuring music by the Workshop Brass Band and a sit-down buffet-style dinner of New Orleans cuisine. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 6 p.m. Rozsa Backstage, MTU. mtu. universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and playtime
will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Project Linus: Fiber Arts Meetup. Knitters, crocheters, quilters, and other fiber crafters will gather together to work on blankets for children in need. Yarn will be provided. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Oil Painting, Pastels and Drawing Classes with Marlene Wood. Bring your own supplies. $20. 1 p.m. Marquette Arts and Culture Center, Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-8655.
• Comic Creators 2.0. Students in second through fifth grades can write, illustrate and publish their own graphic novel. They can also meet other graphic novel/comic book fans, talk about favorite books, create stories and make comic-based crafts. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Maritime History on Tap. “Great
Moose on the Loose | March 5 | Marquette
Photo by PerryAdobe Stock
Lakes Pirate: Facts, Fictions, and a Whole Lotta Folklore” will explore the life and exploits of Captain Dan Seavey who sailed the Great Lakes in the early 1900s and was the only captain ever to be charged with piracy. Presented by the Marquette Maritime Museum. Suggested donation, $5. 7 p.m. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-226-2006 or mqtmaritimemanager@gmail.com.
Negaunee
• Readers Dozen Book Club. As part of the “Readers Dozen Reading Challenge,” the library will host an optional book club for all participants. Participants can enjoy refreshments, share what they’ve been reading, swap recommendations for the coming month and connect with fellow readers. 5 p.m. Reading Room, Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Mardi Gras Bingo. This family-friendly event will include themed bingo cards, small prizes for winners and plenty of Mardi Gras spirit. All ages are welcome. 6 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
05 WEDNESDAY
sunrise 7:22 a.m.; sunset 6:40 p.m.
Escanaba
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Connected at Home: Protect Yourself from Scams. Participants will learn how scammers operate as well as steps that can be taken to prevent scams. Learn how to recognize, react and prevent scammers from taking your money or information. Sponsored by Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice and the Ishpeming Multi-Purpose Senior Center. 1 p.m. To register, call 906-485-5527; on the day of the presentation your phone will ring and you will be able to participate.
• Popcorn and a Movie for Adults. Adults can enjoy free popcorn and a screening of the 2024 release “Arthur the King.” Rated PG-13. 2 p.m. Community Room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Yooper Planners. Lisa from Amethyst&Co. will host this new monthly event to learn about the planner hobby and ways of organizing months and days. Attendees will receive a welcome bag and free sticker sheets. Intended for adults and teens. Registration is required. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. To register, 906-486-4381.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to 17 months old with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Heritage Room Book Group. The group welcomes readers interested in a variety of contemporary fiction. This month’s selection will be “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. 10 a.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Director Chat. Visitors can drop by the library to chat with Director Andrea Ingmire. 11 a.m. to noon, and 5 to 6 p.m. Circulation Lobby, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Congregate Meals for Seniors–Dine in or Curbside Pickup. Meals available to those age 60 and older and their spouses. Call to reserve a meal. $3.50 suggested donation. Noon to 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• NCLL: Moose on the Loose! Ann Hilton Fisher, a volunteer at the Marquette Regional History Center, will discuss the DNR’s efforts in the 1980s to relocate moose from Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario to a suitable habitat in northwestern Marquette County. NCLL members, $5; nonmembers, $10. 1 p.m. Room 101B, NMU Superior Dome. 248-2175434 or rrobb28@yahoo.com.
• Senior Visual Art Classes: Wax Resist with Colleen Maki. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 1 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Home School Chapter Book Discussion. Homeschool students ages 11 and older can meet for biweekly book discussions. This week’s selection will be “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card. 1 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Teens Game On! Teens in sixth through 12th grades can drop in to play video games, board games and more. 3 to 6 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Barbie! Youth of all ages who love Barbie can enjoy a photo
shoot, Barbie job station and more. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Quilters Association Meeting. All skill levels are invited for socialization, program events and show and tell. Yearly membership fee, $20. 6 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. marquettequilters.org.
• League of Women Voters of Marquette County Meeting. All interested community members are welcome. In case of inclement weather, visit lwvmqt.org to confirm if the meeting will be live or via Zoom. Social time, 6:30 p.m.; meeting, 6:45 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. lwvmqtco@ gmail.com.
• “He Went Down with His Ship: Captain Burke and the Steamer Arlington.” Scuba diver and historian Dan Fountain will discuss the Arlington, the wreck of which was found in Lake Superior in the summer of 2023. Suggested donation, $5. 6:30 p.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. 906-2263571 or marquettehistory.org.
Negaunee
• Knitting Group. Crocheters, knitters and others interested in fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and enjoy fellowship. Coffee will be provided and lessons are available. 1 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• After-school Middle School Group. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
06 THURSDAY
sunrise 7:20 a.m.; sunset
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Curtis
• 2025 Seney Winter Film Festival. “Linking Land and Lakes: Protecting the Great Lakes’ Coastal Wetlands” will be shown. Seney Refuge rangers will answer questions following the film. Concessions available by donation. Doors open, 6 p.m. Film, 6:30 p.m. Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 269-744-1673 or friends@friendsofsenery.org.
Escanaba
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Ishpeming
• Book Club. Hosted by the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, this month’s selection is “Drawn Testimony” by Jane Rosenberg. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Senior Center, 121 Greenwood St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Garden Planning Workshop Series. The first session of this four-part series from Partridge Creek Farm will include information on seed starting as well as a free seed swap and giveaway. 5:30 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• SAIL Technology Help Sessions. SAIL’s advocate for assistive technology will provide one-on-one assistance with personal electronic devices. Noon to 2 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Pokémon Trading and Gaming. Youth of all ages interested in Pokémon card trading and gaming can play with other Pokémon fans, chat about Pokémon and look through their cards. Trading and gaming will be led by participants. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Youth Services Makerspace, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• “Kiss the Ground.” This documentary reveals that regenerating the world’s soils can draw down atmospheric carbon, stabilize Earth’s climate and create abundant food supplies. Hosted by Partridge Creek Compost, Partridge Creek Farm and Citizens Climate Lobby. 6 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-422-0012 or ali@partridgecreekcompost.org.
• NEA Big Read Marty Achatz Creative Writing Workshop. Twotime U.P. Poet Laureate Marty Achatz will lead participants through writing prompts based on Roz Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” Writing activities will
explore the theme of home and the people who make/made us. 6:30 p.m.
Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl. info.
Negaunee
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session will feature activity stations and early reading and language activities. Parents and caregivers can also connect to share tips and experiences. This week’s theme will be “Farm Yard.” 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
07 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:18 a.m.; sunset 6:43 p.m.
Escanaba
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m.
William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Cultivating Care, Compassion and Connection. This event will offer a safe space to pause, reflect and build connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness. Each week, a different local organization will present educators and leaders who will facilitate a discussion while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. Noon. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• NEA Big Read Elder Law: Decisions, Decisions. Erica Payne, an expert in elder law from Taproot Law, will discuss issues of estate management, wills and care plans. 1 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts are invited to build projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.
info.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free for ages 50 and older. 7 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
Negaunee
• Public Sliding. Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club. Reservations are required. 6 to 9 p.m. Lucy Hill Luge Run, 230 E. County Rd. upluge.org.
08 SATURDAY sunrise 7:16 a.m.; sunset 6:45 p.m.
Calumet
• U.P. Health System Great Bear Chase. The Great Bear Chase was started in 1981 by Rick Oikarinen and Bob Gregg as a late-winter cross-country ski race to showcase the snow in the Keweenaw Peninsula. The race raises funds for the Swedetown Trails Club. Cost varies by race. 8 a.m. Swedetown Trails. 906-483-1187 or greatbearchase.com.
Escanaba
• LEGO Club. This month’s theme is “Lucky Rainbows.” 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
• “Chicago.” Players de Noc will stage this satirical look at fame, justice and the media machine. “Chicago” is Broadway’s longest-running American musical and features songs such as “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.” $17. 7:30 p.m. William Bonifas Fine Arts Theater, 700 First Ave. S. playersdenoc.org.
Gwinn
• Modeltowner Market. This arts and craft, food, antique and rummage sale will be a fundraiser for the freshmen class of 2028. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gwinn High School. 906-360-4664 or arkens@charter.net.
• Ice Races. Presented by the Upper Michigan Ice Racing Association. $5 donation per car; day pit passes are available for $10 per person. Spectator gate opens at 10 a.m.; races begin by 11:30 a.m. Forsyth Township Ball Park. uppermichiganiceracing.com.
Houghton
• YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan World Tour. In this new high-energy show, “Hito no Chikaroa (The Power of Human Strength),” the performers are pushed to their limits as they use their entire bodies to produce thunderous music. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu.universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Life Drawing with Paul Olson. Intended for ages 12 and older and no experience is necessary. Basic drawing materials will be provided, but students can bring their own. This is a drop-in class and registration is not required. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie
Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• “1° of Separation: A Funny Look at Depression and Suicide.” Four comedians, who are trained and certified by the Veterans Administration (VA), will facilitate positive conversations about mental health. The show is open to all, though it is recommended for ages 18 and older. 2 p.m. Ishpeming National Guard Armory, 900 Palms Ave. 906458-6403 or 906-360-3890.
Marquette
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Repair Café. In partnership with the Marquette Sustainability Coalition, visitors can bring in broken household goods such as appliances, clothing or bikes and skilled fixers will assist in repairing them. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or mqtsustainability@ gmail.com.
• NEA Big Read Tyler Tichelaar Keynote: Chief Kawbawgam. Author Tyler Tichelaar will discuss local historical figure Charles Kawbawgam and present information from his book “Kawbawgam: The Chief, the Legend, the Man.” 1 p.m. Marquette Regional
History Museum, 145 W. Spring St. 906-226-4322 or pwpl.info.
• Art Adventures for Kids: Inuit Printmaking of Cape Dorset, Canada. Materials will be provided for students ages eight to 12 to create their own Inuit-style block prints on paper. Students may also bring a solid light-color T-shirt on which to print. 1 p.m. Studio 1, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. Lsaainfo4u@ gmail.com.
• Queen City Seed Library Community Seed Swap. Meet with other gardeners and seed savers to share knowledge and seeds for the growing season. 1:30 to 3 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. queencityseedlibrary@ gmail.com.
• NSDAR Meeting. This is the monthly meeting of the Onagomingkway Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Attendees should bring their own lunch. 3 p.m. Big Boy Restaurant, 1950 U.S. Hwy. 41 W. 906-226-7836.
• “1° of Separation: A Funny Look at Depression and Suicide.” Four comedians, who are trained and certified by the Veterans Administration (VA), will facilitate positive conversations about mental health. The show is open to all, though it is recommended for ages 18 and older. 5 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. 906-458-6403 or 906-360-3890.
Negaunee
• Public Sliding. Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club. Reservations are required. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lucy Hill Luge Run, 230 E. County Rd. upluge. org.
Great Bear Chase | March 8 | Calumet
Photo by Adam Johnson | brockit inc
museums
Calumet
• International Frisbee/USA Guts Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the history of Guts Frisbee. Days and hours vary. Open when events are held. Second floor ballroom, Calumet Colosseum, 110 Red Jacket Rd. 906-281-7625.
Escanaba
• Upper Peninsula Military Museum and Honor Flight Legacy Museum. The museum honors Upper Peninsula veterans, and features exhibits and dioramas portraying the Upper Peninsula’s contribution to U.S. war efforts from the Civil War through the Afghanistan wars. Learn the history of the honor flight trips. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Inside the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, 1001 N. Lincoln Rd.
• Webster Marble Inventing the Outdoors Museum. Webster Marble came to the U.P. in the late 1880s to be a timber cruiser and surveyor, but later became an inventor. He held 60 patents and invented a long list of gear for camping, hiking, hunting and fishing, including a safety ax with an attached blade guard that folded into the handle. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1001 N. Lincoln Road. 906-786-2192 or deltami.org/ webster-marble-inventing-the-outdoors-museum.
Hancock
• Quincy Mine Hoist and Underground Mine. There are two options for touring the site. On both the surface tour and the full tour, visitors will see the museum, inside the No. 2 Shaft House and the Nordberg Steam Hoist and ride the cog rail tram car to the mine entrance. On the full tour, visitors will take a tractor-pulled wagon into the mine, seven levels underground. Prices vary. Tours can be scheduled year-round. 49750 US-41. 906-482-3101 or quincymine. com.
Houghton
• A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum. Yooperlites, sodalite-bearing syenites that possess fluorescent properties will be on display. View the largest collection of minerals from the Great Lakes region and the world’s finest collection of Michigan minerals. Prices vary. Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1404 E. Sharon Ave. museum.mtu.edu or 906-487-2572.
• Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw. The museum features changing exhibits and programs about the region’s natural and cultural history. Tuesday and Thursday,
noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. 105 Huron St. 906-482-7140 or carnegiekeweenaw.org.
• MTU Archives and Copper Country Historical Collections. Features a variety of historical memorabilia, highlighting life in the Copper Country. Open by appointment. Lower level of the J.R. Van Pelt Library, MTU. 906-487-3209.
Iron Mountain
• Cornish Pumping Engine and Mining Museum. The 725-ton Cornish Pumping Engine, the largest steam-driven pumping engine ever built in the United States, is famous for dewatering Iron Mountain’s Chapin Mine, one of the wettest mines ever worked and the largest producer of iron ore on the Menominee Iron Range. The museum also displays underground mining equipment. Children five and younger, free; students, $5; seniors and veterans, $7; adults, $8. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT. 300 Kent St. 906-774-1086 or menomineemuseum.com.
• World War II Glider and Military Museum. During World War II, the Ford Motor Company’s Kingsford plant built the CG-4A gliders for the U.S. Army. View one of seven fully restored CG-4A G World War II gliders, military uniforms from the Civil War through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, memorabilia, restored military vehicles and more. Prices vary. Children five and younger, free; students, $5; seniors and veterans, $7; adults, $8. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT. 302 Kent St. 906-774-1086 or menomineemuseum.com.
Ishpeming
• U.S. National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum features more than 300 Hall of Fame inductees, presented in photographs and biographies, and displays and exhibits of skiing history and equipment, an extensive library, video show, gift shop, special events and more. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. US-41 and Third Street. 906-485-6323 or skihall.com.
K.I. Sawyer
• K.I. Sawyer Heritage Air Museum. The museum promotes and preserves the aviation history the air base brought to the area. Air Force-related materials are on display, including photographs, flags, medals and more. Wednesday through Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment. 402 Third St. 906-236-3502 or kisawyerheritageairmuseum.org.
Marquette
• Baraga Educational Center and Museum. View artifacts and tools used by Venerable Bishop Baraga. Thursday and Friday, noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment. 615 S. Fourth St. 906-227-9117.
• Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center. “The Political Life,” an exhibition chronicling the lives and work of the U.P.’s greatest politicians, along with accounts of U.S. presidents who visited the region, is on display through June 28. The museum promotes and preserves the history and culture of the U.P. and collects and preserves artifacts related to the history of NMU. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 to 4 p.m. Corner of Seventh and Tracy streets. NMU. 906-227-1219 or nmu.edu/ beaumier.
• Marquette Regional History Center. The museum includes interactive displays as well as regional history exhibits. Youth 12 and under, $3; students, $4; seniors and military, $8; adults, $10. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 145 W. Spring St. 906-2263571 or marquettehistory.org.
• Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum. A variety of interactive exhibits offer learning through investigation and creativity. Prices vary. Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 123 W. Baraga Ave. 906-2263911 or upchildrensmuseum.org.
Munising
• Alger County Historical Society Heritage Center. Exhibits include the Grand Island Recreation Area, Munising Woodenware Company, barn building, homemaking, sauna and more. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1496 Washington St. 906-387-4308.
Negaunee
• Michigan Iron Industry Museum. In the forested ravines of the Marquette Iron Range, the museum overlooks the Carp River and the site of the first iron forge in the Lake Superior region. Museum exhibits, audio-visual programs and outdoor interpretive paths depict the largescale capital and human investment that made Michigan an industrial leader. The museum is one of 10 museums and historic sites administered by the Michigan Historical Center. Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking. Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 73 Forge Rd. 906-475-7857 or michigan.gov/mhc/museums/miim. MM
09 SUNDAY
sunrise 8:14 a.m.; sunset 7:46 p.m.
Daylight
Calumet
Saving Time Begins
• Art Play. This open studio time for adults encourages artists to create and share their work. 2 to 4 p.m. Calumet Art Center, 57055 Fifth St. 906-9342228 or info@calumetartcenter.com.
Ishpeming
• Bingo. Doors open at noon. Ishpeming VFW, 310 Bank St. 906-486-4856.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Marquette
• Story Time at MooseWood. The book “Sleep, Black Bear, Sleep” by Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple will be read and guests may enjoy a visit in the nature center once the reading is complete. Intended for ages five to eight, but all are welcome. Suggestion donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. 11 a.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. To register,
moosewoodnc@gmail.com. 906-2286250 or moosewood.org.
Rock
• Senior Dance. Music will be performed by Country Express. The dance will raise money for the Rock Senior Corporation. Pricing to be announced. 1 to 4 p m. Rock Senior Center, 3892 W. Mapleridge 37 Rd.
10 MONDAY
sunrise 8:12 a.m.; sunset 7:47 p.m.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Senior Theatre Experience: Monthly Theatre Workshop and Discussion. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. Room B, Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 6 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• NEA Big Read Roz Chast Virtual Keynote. Author Roz Chast will
participate in a virtual Q&A on the subject matter and themes of “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” and the challenges and rewards of writing a graphic memoir.
6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
11 TUESDAY sunrise 8:10 a.m.; sunset 7:49 p.m.
Calumet
• Friends of the Library Meeting. New members are welcome to learn about programming ideas, volunteer opportunities, the Red Jacket Readers book club and more. 5:30 p.m. Community Room, Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Gwinn
• Literature at the Lodge. This month’s selection will be “The Frozen River” by Ariel Lawhon. 6 p.m. Up North Lodge, 215 S. Co. Rd. 557. 906346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and playtime will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Tasty Reads Book Group. The group welcomes readers who love to cook. This month’s selection will be “Food that Really Schmecks” by Edna Staebler. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.
• Lake Superior Knitters. Learn how to knit, solve problems in reading patterns and expand your knitting skills. The group includes a variety of ages and levels of experiences. Bring a skein of lighter color yarn and a size 7, 24-inch circular needle to make a hat or cowl. Suggested donation, $1 to $5 to the MRHC for the study and preservation of the fiber arts. 1 p.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. beedhive47@yahoo.com.
• Oil Painting, Pastels and Drawing Classes with Marlene Wood. Bring your own supplies. $20. 1 p.m. Marquette Arts and Culture Center, Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-8655.
• NCLL: Understanding Recycling in Marquette. Josh Wales, material management supervisor at MCSWMA, will discuss how recycling prevents garbage going into landfills and how recycling efforts support other agencies. NCLL members, $5; nonmembers, $10. 1:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-235-8532 or susanholliday83@ gmail.com.
• Senior Dance Class. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. Baraga Gym, Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• NEA Big Read B.G. Bradley Creative Writing Workshop. Novelist and teacher B.G. Bradley will lead participants of all ages to write short memoir pieces about parents, grandparents and persons of note in their lives. 4:00 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Muggles for Potter. Young wizards in third through sixth grades will return to “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.” Attendees can enjoy butterbeer and jellybeans while listening to some chapters read aloud. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Woodturners Meeting. The meeting will include a demonstration about segmented woodturning. 6:30 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. jmarchimes@charter.net.
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Crochet Club. This is a time to
gather with fellow crafters to socialize. Supplies and instruction will be provided for those who are interested in learning how to crochet. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Little Lake
• Gwinn Quilters. Members learn new skills and techniques, work on individual and group projects, and create items to donate to community organizations. A business meeting takes place at 12:30 p.m. followed by show and tell. Bring a bag lunch. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fellowship Hall, Little Lake Chapel, 1761 M-35. 906-346-6344.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to 17 months old with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Congregate Meals for Seniors–Dine in or Curbside Pickup. Meals available to those age 60 and older and their spouses. Call to reserve a meal. $3.50 suggested donation. Noon to 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• NCLL: The Mystery Cave of Many Faces. Historian Fred Rydholm will share the story of caver Russell Burrows who found a cave in southern Illinois in 1982 that contained engraved stones bearing non-American art styles and inscriptions in ancient European and Asian scripts. NCLL members, $5; nonmembers, $10. 1:30 p.m. Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1700 W. Fair Ave. 906-225-1004 or hoosieryooper80@ gmail.com.
• unTITLEd Teens. Teens in Grades six to 12 are invited to a program that will be different every month. 3 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” Youth of all ages who love the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books can test their wimpy kid knowledge in a trivia game, learn how to draw Greg Heffley and more. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl. info.
• Community Knit/Crochet Club. 5:30 p.m. Alley Kat’s Quilt Shop, 1010 W. Washington St. 906-315-0050.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
• Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance Meeting. Local educator Scot Stewart will present “Owls: Silent Hunters of the Night” and discuss the different species of owls found in Michigan. 7 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St.
laughingwhitefishbirdalliance.com.
Negaunee
• Knitting Group. Crocheters, knitters and others interested in fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and enjoy fellowship. Coffee will be provided and lessons are available. 1 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• After-school Middle School Group. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
13 THURSDAY sunrise 8:07 a.m.; sunset 7:52 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
• Getting Started with Libby. Volunteers will host this help session for library users new to the Libby (Overdrive) app, which provides access to audiobooks and ebooks through the Great Lakes Digital Library. 4:30 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
Crystal Falls
• U.P. Notable Books Club (Zoom). This month’s discussion will feature “Lumberjack: Inside an Era in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, 70th Anniversary Edition” by William S. Crowe. Guests will be Crowe’s granddaughters Lynn Emerick and Ann McGlothlin. 7 p.m. EST, 6 p.m. CST. Via Zoom. 906-875-3344 or egathu@ crystalfallslibrary.org. upnotable.com.
Curtis
• 2025 Seney Winter Film Festival. “Magic of the Snowy Owl” will be shown. Seney Refuge rangers will answer questions following the film. Concessions available by donation. Doors open, 6 p.m. Film, 6:30 p.m. Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 269-744-1673 or friends@friendsofsenery.org.
Escanaba
• Fiber Arts a la Carte. Intended for ages 16 and older. 5 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Houghton
• 25 or 6 to 4: Huskies Pep Band. The Pep Band will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Rozsa Center, the
year 2025, and the music of Chicago and other rock classics. Pay As You’re Able Ticketing. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu.universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Cardboard Mask Workshop. Local artist Amber Dohrenwend will lead this workshop to build an armature of a favorite animal or imagined creature that can be worn as a mask or a headpiece. Intended for ages 6 and older with a caregiver. Registration is required. 5:30 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. To register, 906-486-4381.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• SAIL Technology Help Sessions. SAIL’s advocate for assistive technology will provide one-on-one assistance with personal electronic devices. Noon to 2 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• School’s Out, Library’s In: “Sing 2.” Youth of all ages can drop in for crafts and activities, including DIY animal masks and microphones. A screening of “Sing 2” will begin at 12:45 p.m. and attendees can dance to “Just Dance” from 2:30 to 5 p.m. Kids can bring lunch or snacks for the movie. Noon to 5 p.m. Youth Services Makerspace and Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Friends of PWPL Used Book and Media Sale. Hosted by Friends of the Peter White Public Library, this will be the presale fundraiser event. $5 per person. 5 to 8 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-9510 or pwpl.info.
• NEA Big Read: Second Thursday— Forest Family. For this youth event, children will “grow” their family trees, creating an art project to represent the roots, trunk and leaves, as well as a forest family. There will be crafts, snacks and live music from Cloverland. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. U.P. Children’s Museum, 123 W. Baraga Ave. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl. info or pwpl.info.
• Yarnwinders Fiber Guild of Marquette. 6 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St.
• Book Discussion. Participants will discuss Chapter 5 of Leanne Simpson’s “As We Have Always Done,” titled
“Anti-Capitalism,” with Erika Greely, NMU’s assistant director of admissions. 6 p.m. Whitman Hall Commons, NMU. ksassi@nmu.edu.
• NEA Big Read: Marquette Poets Circle. Local poets, writers and poetry enthusiasts can gather for an evening of poetry. Participants will workshop their current work starting at 6:30 p.m., followed by an open mic at 7:15 p.m. New and experienced poets are welcome for either or both events. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• The Make-Believe Spurs Present: Music by Bob Dylan. Featuring Tim Cleary and Andy Langlois, this will be a fundraiser event for Kaufman Auditorium. Students younger than 18, $12; NMU students and seniors, $15; general public, $20. 7 p.m. Kaufman Auditorium, 611 N. Front St. 906-2271032 or tickets.nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session will feature activity stations and early reading and language activities. Parents and caregivers can also connect to share tips and experiences. This week’s theme will be “Fairy Tales.” 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
14 FRIDAY
sunrise 8:05 a.m.; sunset 7:53 p.m.
Spread Goodness Day
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. The theme will be “March is Reading Month,” which will include a library lesson and tour at 10:30 a.m. 10 a.m. to noon. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
• Afternoon Movie. Ishpeming and NICE students have half days and students can enjoy a screening of PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie (rated PG). Popcorn will be provided. 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Friends of PWPL Used Book and Media Sale. Hosted by Friends of the Peter White Public Library. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-9510 or pwpl.info.
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and
a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• The Beijing Guitar Duo Music Appreciation Presentation. Part of NMU’s Siril Concert Series. 11 a.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. nmu.edu/music.
• Cultivating Care, Compassion and Connection. This event will offer a safe space to pause, reflect and build connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness. Each week, a different local organization will present educators and leaders who will facilitate a discussion while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. Noon. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• NEA Big Read Docu Cinema: “Very Semi-Serious.” This documentary features Roz Chast and explores the genius of The New Yorker’s single-panel cartoon. Following the film, there will be a discussion of Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Schools Out, Library’s In: LEGO! Youth of all ages can drop in for crafts, activities and building with LEGO and K’nex. The film “LEGO Ninjago” will be screened at 12:45 p.m. Noon to 5 p.m. Youth Services Makerspace and Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W.
400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Gwinn
• Marquette Polar Plunge. The event raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics Michigan. It will be followed by awards, raffles and the After Splash Bash. Check-in, 2:30 p.m.; plunge, 4 p.m. Event Center, Up North Lodge, 215 S. Co. Rd. 557. classy.org/ event/2025-marquette-polar-plunge/ e622159.
Hancock
• Buellwood Weavers and Fiber Arts Guild Meeting. Participants will start a group project that will be used for a display next summer. All fiber artists are welcome. 1 p.m. Fiber Arts Studio (Room 105), Finnish American Folk School, lower level, Skyline Commons, 200 Michigan St. jegale@att.net or 906-221-5306.
Ishpeming
• The Beijing Guitar Duo Masterclass. Part of NMU’s Siril Concert Series. 1 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. nmu.edu/ music.
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts are invited to build projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl. info.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free for ages 50 and older. 7 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
• The Beijing Guitar Duo Concert. Part of NMU’s Siril Concert Series. NMU students and youth 18 and younger, free; general public, $12. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. tickets.nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Public Sliding. Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club. Reservations are required. 6 to 9 p.m. Lucy Hill Luge Run, 230 E. County Rd. upluge.org.
15 SATURDAY
sunrise 8:03 a.m.;
Crystal Falls
• The Knockabouts. Celtic trio The Knockabouts will perform traditional, contemporary and original tunes. Students, $5; general public, $23. 7 p.m. CST. The Crystal Theatre, 304 Superior Ave. 906-875-3208 or thecrystaltheatre.org.
Escanaba
• Great Start Storytime. Intended for children up to eight years old. 10:30 a.m. Escanaba Public Library,
• Life Drawing with Paul Olson. Intended for ages 12 and older and no experience is necessary. Basic drawing materials will be provided, but students can bring their own. This is a drop-in class and registration is not required. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Friends of PWPL Used Book and Media Sale. Hosted by Friends of the Peter White Public Library. Books and media will be 50 percent off from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The $5 bag sale will follow from 1:45 to 4 pm. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-9510 or pwpl. info.
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Guts Frisbee Tournament. The Bill Beckman Campus Canathon Guts Frisbee Tournament will include players of all ages. Spectator admission will be by three non-perishable food items. 3 to 11 p.m. NMU Superior Dome. gutsplayers.com.
Negaunee
• Teddy Bear Clinic. Volunteer doctors will repair teddy bears and gently loved stuffed toys. Participants can drop in and enjoy crafts and reading materials while waiting for their wounded friend to be repaired. 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
Beijing Guitar Duo | March 14 | Marquette
Photo courtesy of NMU
Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Public Sliding. Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Luge Club. Reservations are required. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lucy Hill Luge Run, 230 E. County Rd. upluge. org.
16 SUNDAY sunrise 8:01 a.m.; sunset 7:56 p.m.
St. Urho’s Day
Houghton
• “What’s the Rush?” This film features Dr. Douglas Tallamy, a professor at the University of Delaware, native plant researcher and advocate. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Dr. Sigrid Resh of the Keweenaw Invasive Species Management Area (KISMA), Michelle Wietek-Stephens of U.P. Native Plants in Marquette and Marcia Goodrich, president of Keweenaw Wild Ones. 6 p.m. Room G002, U.J. Noblet Forestry Building, MTU.
Ishpeming
• Bingo. Doors open at noon. Ishpeming VFW, 310 Bank St. 906-486-4856.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Rock
• Rock Lions and Legion Breakfast Buffet and Can Drive. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item. Kids 5 and younger, free; kids ages 6 to 12, $9; adults, $12. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rock Lions Club, 14454 M-35.
17 MONDAY
sunrise 7:59 a.m.; sunset 7:57 p.m.
St. Patrick’s Day
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Diversity Common Reader Speaker Leanne Betasamosake Simpson. Leanne Betasamosake Simpson is the author of “As We Have Always Done: Indigenous Freedom through Radical Resistance.” 11:30 a.m. Northern Center Ballroom, NMU. ksassi@nmu. edu.
• Ukulele Class. Free for ages 50 and older. Instruments will be provided. 3 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W.
Spring St. To register, 906-228-0456.
• D&D Junior. Students in fourth and fifth grades can join DM Grace for a role-playing adventure. Kids new to the game are welcome and all character sheets and supplies will be provided. Registration is required. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Cyber Clinic: Families. In partnership with the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute, this event will help parents and guardians of children and teens learn how to keep their children safe online, manage their apps and messaging, and more. Questions may be submitted in advance; email upcyber@nmu.edu. 6 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4319 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 6 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• The Joy of Sound Meditation. This meditation uses the sounds produced by bronze singing bowls and metallic gongs. 7 p.m. Chapel, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. 906-362-9934.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
18 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:57 a.m.; sunset 7:59 p.m.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Oil Painting, Pastels and Drawing Classes with Marlene Wood. Bring your own supplies. $20. 1 p.m. Marquette Arts and Culture Center, Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-8655.
• Dungeons and Dragons. Jordan from Iron Golem Games and local dungeon masters will lead groups of teens in Grades six to 12 on a quest with this role-playing game. Registration required. 4 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4321, apierce@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Senior Dance Classes. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. Baraga Gym, Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-225-8655.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
• Author Talk with Karen Wils. 5:30 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and playtime will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Book Club. This month’s selection is “The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder” by Joanna Fluke. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• NEA Big Read All Booked Up: Can We Talk? This All Booked Up Book Club discussion will focus on Roz Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” 10 a.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl. info.
• Jr. Explorers. Intended for curious kids in kindergarten through second grade who like fun facts and love learning about animals. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl. info.
• Art Talk: Taking Risks and Being Bold with Your Art. Featuring artists Megan Bjork, Sandy Weber and Penney Mellon. Presented by the Lake Superior Art Association. 6:30 p.m. Studio Two, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. lakesuperiorartassociation.org.
19 WEDNESDAY
Escanaba
• Great Start Family Fun Night. Intended for families with children up to eight years old. 4:30 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Italian Lessons: Casual Conversation. Marilena Corradino will teach Italian in a casual conversation format. The bimonthly class is intended for beginners or those who want to practice speaking Italian with others. 4 p.m. Ray Leverton Community Room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Book Club. This month’s selection is “The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder” by Joanna Fluke. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381
Zarna Garg Stand-up Comedy Tour | March 22 | Houghton
Photo by Ben Jaszczak
or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to 17 months old with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Congregate Meals for Seniors–Dine in or Curbside Pickup. Meals available to those age 60 and older and their spouses. Call to reserve a meal. $3.50 suggested donation. Noon to 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• Senior Visual Art Classes: Wax Resist with Colleen Maki. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 1 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Home School Chapter Book Discussion. Home school teens ages 11 and older can meet for biweekly book discussions. This week’s selection will be “Hey Kiddo” by Jarrett J. Krosoczka. 1 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Planting a Rainbow. Youth of all ages can celebrate the first day of spring by planting a rainbow. Participants will read “Planting a Rainbow” by Lois Ehlert, decorate a mini garden pot and plant a mini garden rainbow. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Genealogical Society Meeting. The meeting will include a presentation titled “Potatoes and Other Irish Roots.” Members, visitors and guests are encouraged to attend. 6 p.m. Family Search Center, 350 Cherry Creek Rd., Chocolay Township.
• Film Premiere: “My Sister.” The Marquette Regional History Center will host the premiere of “My Sister,” a film by Negaunee native and NMU alum Dan Aho. Shot in Marquette County, the film is loosely inspired by real events. Attendees can meet the local cast, Jessica “Red” Bays and Han Numinen, and take part in a post-screening discussion with Aho. Students, $10; general public, $20. 6:30 p.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. 906-2263571 or marquettehistory.org.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• NEA Big Read All Booked Up. “Upper Michigan Today” host Tia Trudgeon will lead an-air book
discussion of Roz Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?”
9 a.m. WLUC TV6 Studio, 177 U.S. Hwy. 41 E. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Knitting Group. Crocheters, knitters and others interested in fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and enjoy fellowship. Coffee will be provided and lessons are available. 1 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• After-school Middle School Group. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
20 THURSDAY
sunrise 7:53 a.m.; sunset 8:01 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Curtis
• 2025 Seney Winter Film Festival. “Hummingbirds: Magic in the Air” will be shown. Seney Refuge rangers will answer questions following the film. Concessions available by donation. Doors open, 6 p.m. Film, 6:30 p.m. Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 269-744-1673 or friends@friendsofsenery.org.
Ishpeming
• Graphic Novel Book Club. Students in fourth through seventh grade can enjoy snacks and a book discussion of “Swing” by Audrey Meeker. New members are welcome. 4 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Bookworms. This tween book club will read children’s and middle-grade books published for fourth through eighth grades. This month’s selection will be “Invisible” by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriela Epstein. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• SAIL Technology Help Sessions.
SAIL’s advocate for assistive technology will provide one-on-one assistance with personal electronic devices. Noon to 2 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Pokémon Trading and Gaming. Youth of all ages interested in Pokémon card trading and gaming can play with other Pokémon fans, chat about Pokémon and look through their cards. Trading and gaming will be led by participants. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Youth Services Makerspace, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Remote Worker Meetup. U.P. and Marquette area remote workers can build community with their fellow workers. Family members and kids are welcome. 6 to 8 p.m. Superior Culture, 717 N. Third St. marquetteremoteworkers@gmail.com.
• NEA Big Read Elder Caregiving. A representative from the Alzheimer’s Association will discuss how to care for individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. 6:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Lasers on the Ore Dock. This light display has expanded beyond its previous holiday-only schedule with a new show presented by Fresh Coast Light Lab and Travel Marquette. 7 p.m. Ore Dock, Mattson Lower Harbor Park. travelmarquette.com.
• NMU Jazz Festival Opening Concert. The concert will feature drummer Matt Wilson and include performances by the NMU Jazz Band and the NMU Jazz Combo. NMU students and youth 18 and younger, free; general admission, $12. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. tickets.nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session will feature activity stations and early reading and language activities. Parents and caregivers can also connect to share tips and experiences. This week’s theme will be “New Growth.” 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
21 FRIDAY sunrise 7:51 a.m.; sunset 8:03 p.m.
a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Cultivating Care, Compassion and Connection. This event will offer a safe space to pause, reflect and build connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness. Each week, a different local organization will present educators and leaders who will facilitate a discussion while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. Noon. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• NEA Big Read Global Cinema: “Tokyo Story.” Yasujiro Ozu’s “Tokyo Story” explores the themes of old age and parenting. Following the film, there will be a discussion about the effects of aging and caregiving, including elements from Roz Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” Noon. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts are invited to build projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl. info.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free for ages 50 and older. 7 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
• Lasers on the Ore Dock. This light display has expanded beyond its previous holiday-only schedule with a new show presented by Fresh Coast Light Lab and Travel Marquette. 7 p.m. Ore Dock, Mattson Lower Harbor Park. travelmarquette.com.
• NMU Jazz Festival Closing Concert. The concert will feature drummer Matt Wilson and include performances by the NMU Jazz Band and the NMU Jazz Combo. NMU students and youth 18 and younger, free; general admission, $12. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. tickets.nmu.edu.
22 SATURDAY
Houghton
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and
• Zarna Garg Stand-up Comedy Tour. Zarna Garg, an Indian immigrant mom turned stand-up comedy star, captivates audiences with her quick wit, relatable humor and fearless social commentary. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu.universitytickets.com.
Marquette
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• NEA Big Read The People Library. Participants will be able to “check out” individuals from the library for short, individual conversations about their lives and experiences as miners, Native Americans, authors, teachers, clergy, individuals with mental illness and more. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 or pwpl. info.
• NMU Department of Music Faculty Recital. Featuring soprano Keri Lee Pierson. 4 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall. nmu.edu/music.
• Superior String Alliance Chamber Players Concert. Danielle Simandl, Adam Hall and Dr. Theresa Camilli will perform. Donations appreciated. 5 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 120 N. Front St. superiorstringalliance.org.
• Lasers on the Ore Dock. This light display has expanded beyond its previous holiday-only schedule with a new show presented by Fresh Coast Light Lab and Travel Marquette. 7 p.m. Ore Dock, Mattson Lower Harbor Park. travelmarquette.com.
23
Calumet
• Art Play. This open studio time for adults encourages artists to create and share their work. 2 to 4 p.m. Calumet Art Center, 57055 Fifth St. 906-9342228 or info@calumetartcenter.com.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
24
Marquette
Attendees will learn about and take a closer look at some unique lizards, including a skink, gecko and bearded dragon. Intended for ages six and older. Suggestion donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. 6 p.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. To register, moosewoodnc@gmail.com. 906-228-6250 or moosewood.org.
• Bluesday Tuesday Concert. This concert is sponsored by the Marquette Area Blues Society. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 or pwpl.info.
Negaunee
• Faux Stained Glass Craft Night. This event will offer a relaxing, creative evening with step-by-step guidance. Registration is required. 5:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
26
• Spring Break: Drop-In Winter Sensory Play. Led by elementary education students from NMU’s children’s literature course, youth of all ages can play with ice and snow in sensory bins, make a wintery craft and listen to winter stories. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Book Discussion. Participants will discuss Chapter 11 of Leanne Simpson’s “As We Have Always Done,” titled “Art as Resurgence,” with Dr. April Lindala, professor of Native American Studies, and Tracy Wascom, professor of art and design. 11 a.m. Room 90, NMU School of Art and Design. ksassi@nmu.edu.
• Senior Theatre Experience: Monthly Theatre Workshop and Discussion. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. Room B, Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Superiorland Pet Partners. Children of all ages can practice their reading skills with a pet-therapy trained Superiorland Pet Partner dog. 4 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 6 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• NEA Big Read Lynn Domina Creative Writing Workshop. Poet Lynn Domina will lead participants to generate poems about the place and people we call home. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
25 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:43 a.m.; sunset 8:08 p.m.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Marquette
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Lake Superior Knitters. Learn how to knit, solve problems in reading patterns and expand your knitting skills. The group includes a variety of ages and levels of experiences. Bring a skein of lighter color yarn and a size 7, 24-inch circular needle to make a hat or cowl. Suggested donation, $1 to $5 to the MRHC for the study and preservation of the fiber arts. 1 p.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. beedhive47@yahoo.com.
• Oil Painting, Pastels and Drawing Classes with Marlene Wood. Bring your own supplies. $20. 1 p.m. Marquette Arts and Culture Center, Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-8655.
• Senior Dance Class. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. Baraga Gym, Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Spring Break: Guided Painting. Led by elementary education students from NMU’s children’s literature course, families will work together to paint a handprint flower vase. 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Creature Feature: Lizards.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Italian Lessons: Casual Conversation. Marilena Corradino will teach Italian in a casual conversation format. The bimonthly class is intended for beginners or those who want to practice speaking Italian with others. 4 p.m. Ray Leverton Community Room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Horror Book Club. This month’s selection will be “House of Leaves” by Mark Danielewski. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Congregate Meals for Seniors–Dine in or Curbside Pickup. Meals available to those age 60 and older and their spouses. Call to reserve a meal. $3.50 suggested donation. Noon to 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• Spring Break: Drop-in Slime and I-Spy Jars. Led by elementary education students from NMU’s children’s literature course, youth of all ages can drop in to design their own slime and create an I-Spy bottle. 1:30 to 3 p.m. Youth Services MakerSpace and Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl. info.
• Adult Nonfiction Book Group. The group is for people who enjoy reading narrative nonfiction that tell stories of the past, present and future. This
Creature Feature: Lizards | March 25 | Marquette
Photo by Robert Koorenny on unsplash
month’s selection will be “Can We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” by Roz Chast. 2 p.m. Conference Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4311 or refdesk@ pwpl.info.
• Adaptive Equipment Presentation. SAIL offers assistive technology (AT), most of which is low-tech, that can be used to help persons with disabilities live their day-to-day lives with more independence. Learn about the different types of AT, how they can improve your life and how SAIL can help assist in providing AT. Hosted by Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice. 3 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Knitting Group. Crocheters, knitters and others interested in fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and enjoy fellowship. Coffee will be provided and lessons are available. 1 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• After-school Middle School Group. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
27 THURSDAY
sunrise 7:39 a.m.; sunset 8:11 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Crochet Club. This is a time to gather with fellow crafters to socialize. Supplies and instruction will be provided for those who are interested in learning how to crochet. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• SAIL Technology Help Sessions. SAIL’s advocate for assistive technology will provide one-on-one assistance with personal electronic devices. Noon to 2 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Book Discussion. Participants will discuss Chapter 4 of Leanne Simpson’s “As We Have Always Done,” titled “Internationalism,” with Dr. Petra Hendrickson, assistant professor of political science. 4:30 p.m. Whitman Hall Commons, NMU. ksassi@nmu. edu.
• NEA Big Read Christine Saari Book Release: “A Stitched Life.” Writer and artist Christine Saari will read from her newly released memoir in poems, “A Stitched Life,” which details her childhood experiences growing up in Austria during the rise of Adolf Hitler to her eventual settlement in the U.P. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• NCLL: Voyage on the Baltic Sea. NCLL member will share highlights of Stockholm, Helsinki, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Bornholm Island and Copenhagen from her tour of the Baltic Sea. NCLL members, $5; nonmembers, $10. 6:30 p.m. Room 101B, NMU Superior Dome. 906-869-5291 or mccoormpaula@gmail.com.
Negaunee
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session will feature activity stations and early reading and language activities. Parents and caregivers can also connect to share tips and experiences. This week’s theme will be “Letters.” 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
28 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:37 a.m.; sunset 8:12 p.m.
Houghton
• Don K Weekend Jazz Festival Performance. The event will include performances by the Video Game Jazz Ensemble and the R&D Band featuring the 2025 Don K Weekend guest artist. JazTec will open the performance. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu.universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the
library’s resources. Free choice stations will be available. 10 a.m. to noon.
Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• Cultivating Care, Compassion and Connection. This event will offer a safe space to pause, reflect and build connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness. Each week, a different local organization will present educators and leaders who will facilitate a discussion while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles. Noon. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• NEA Big Read Cinema: “On Golden Pond.” This classic film explores aging, dementia and intergenerational communication. Following the film, there will be a discussion of the movie and Roz Chast’s “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” with a representative from the Marquette Alzheimer’s Association. Noon. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4322 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts are invited to build projects with the library’s LEGO blocks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl. info.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free for ages 50 and older. 7 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
Negaunee
• Dinner with the Doctor: Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Solultions. Guests will be Rolando and Emily Porras of Choose Life Abundant, a notfor-profit health education charity that facilitates healthy outcomes through lifestyle modification. Dinner will not be provided. 7 p.m. Marquette Seventhday Adventist Church, 270 U.S. 41 E. 906-475-4488 or mqtsdachurch@ gmail.com.
29 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:35 a.m.; sunset 8:14 p.m.
Houghton
• Don K Weekend Jazz Festival
Performance. The event will include performances by the Lab Band with the 2025 Don K Weekend Guest Artist. The Don K Weekend Masterclass students will open the performance. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 6 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu.universitytickets. com.
• Don K Weekend Jazz Festival Performance. The event will include performances by JazTec and Workshop Brass Band. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 8 p.m. Rozsa Center, MTU. mtu. universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Silent Book Club. Hosted by the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, attendees can bring their own book and read silently for one hour, followed by time to socialize and talk about books. Noon. Velodrome Coffee, 105 S. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
Marquette
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Spring Break: Springtime Storytime. Led by elementary education students from NMU’s children’s literature course, kids of all ages can enjoy stories, songs and animal crafts. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• NEA Big Read Dr. Martin Reinhardt Keynote: Indigenous People in the U.P. Dr. Martin Reinhardt will speak about Native Americans in the U.P., including information on culture, history, interaction with white settlers and Native American boarding schools. 1 p.m. Marquette Regional History Museum, 145 W. Spring St. 906-2264322, or pwpl.info.
• Superior String Alliance Chamber Players Concert. Danielle Simandl, Lauren Pulcipher, Ria Hodgson and Kelly Quesada will perform. Donations appreciated. 7 p.m. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. superiorstringalliance.org.
Negaunee
• Dinner with the Doctor: Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Solultions. Guests will be Rolando and Emily Porras of Choose Life Abundant, a not-for-profit health education charity that facilitates healthy outcomes through lifestyle modification. Dinner will not be provided. 11:30 a.m. Marquette Seventh-day Adventist Church, 270 U.S. 41 E. 906-475-4488
30 SUNDAY
sunrise 7:33 a.m.; sunset 8:15 p.m.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Marquette
• Story Time at MooseWood. The book “Sneezy the Snowman” by Maureen Wright will be read and attendees can also make mini snow people (dress for the weather). Guests may enjoy a visit in the nature center once the reading is complete. Intended
support groups
• Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families— Marquette. Sundays, 7 p.m. Use the parking lot entrance. Downstairs meeting room, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. adultchildren.org/meeting.
• Alano Club—Marquette. Twelvestep recovery meetings daily. Daily, noon and 7:30 p.m. 106 Coles Dr.
• Al-Anon/Alateen Family Groups. A fellowship offering strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers. al-alon.org or 888-425-2666.
• Al-Anon—Ishpeming. Friends and family who have loved ones dealing with alcohol issues are invited. Mondays, 6 p.m. Wesley United Methodist Church, 801 Hemlock St. 906-361-9524.
• Alcoholics Anonymous. Daily meetings throughout Marquette County at many locations and times. Twenty-four-hour answering service. aa-marquettecounty.org or 800-605-5043.
• Open AA Meeting—Gwinn. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Basement, Gwinn Clubhouse, 165 N. Maple St.
• Open AA Meeting—K.I. Sawyer. Fridays, 8 p.m. 906 Community Church, 315 Explorer St.
• Men’s AA Meeting—Gwinn. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church, 280 Boulder St. (entrance to the right of main entrance).
• ALZConnected. This is a free, online community for everyone affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss diseases. alzconnected.org.
• American Legacy Foundation. Smoking quit line for expectant mothers and cessation information for women. 800-668-8278.
• Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar and
for ages five to eight, but all are welcome. Suggestion donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. 11 a.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. To register, moosewoodnc@gmail.com. 906-228-6250 or moosewood.org.
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• Pop Culture Trivia. 2 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
Negaunee
• Dinner with the Doctor: Natural
Remedies and Lifestyle Solultions. Guests will be Rolando and Emily Porras of Choose Life Abundant, a notfor-profit health education charity that facilitates healthy outcomes through lifestyle modification. Dinner will be provided. 4 p.m. Marquette Seventhday Adventist Church, 270 U.S. 41 E. 906-475-4488 or mqtsdachurch@ gmail.com.
31 MONDAY
sunrise 7:31 a.m.; sunset 8:16p.m.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 18 to 36 months with a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter
White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Pet Partners. Children of all ages can practice their reading skills with a pet-therapy trained Superiorland Pet Partner dog. 4 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 6 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18. MM
Cholesterol Checks. Cholesterol checks are $5. Call for Marquette County schedule. 906-225-4545.
• Caregiver Support Group (Phonebased). Caregivers can share their feelings, develop friendships and learn about available community resources from their own home via phone. March 19. 2 p.m. To register, call 906-485-5527.
• Caregiver Support Group— Marquette. Family, friends and others who are caring for a person with a chronic illness or disability can share their feelings, develop friendships and learn about available community resources. March 12. 2 p.m. Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice, 914 W. Baraga Ave. 906-225-7760 or lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• Celebrate Recovery—Gwinn. Wednesdays. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Gwinn, 195 N. Billings St.
• Gamblers Anonymous. This group is for those who have or think they have a problem with gambling. Thursdays, 7 p.m. Library Room, First Presbyterian Church, 120 N. Front St., Marquette.
• Grief Support Group—Ishpeming. U.P. Home Health and Hospice offers support for those caring for a loved one with a life-limiting diagnosis or who recently experienced the loss of a loved one. Second and fourth Thursdays. 2 p.m. Ray Leverton Community Room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-225-4545.
• Grief Support Group—Ishpeming. Anyone dealing with grief and loss is invited to attend. Third Wednesday of each month. 7 p.m. St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1889 Prairie Ave. 906-376-8475.
• Grief Support Group—Gwinn. People dealing with grief and loss
are encouraged to attend. Individual grief counseling is available. March 12. 2 p.m. Forsyth Senior Center, 165 Maple St. 906-225-7760 or lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• Grief Support Group—Marquette. U.P. Home Health and Hospice will offer support for those caring for a loved one with a life-limiting diagnosis or who recently experienced the loss of a loved one. First and third Thursdays. 3 p.m. Dandelion Cottage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-4545.
• iCanQuit. Smokers are invited to learn more about quitting with the help of a quitting coach. 800-480-7848.
• Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous. Tuesdays, 12:05 p.m. Upstairs, The Crib Coffee House, 401 N. Third St., Marquette. ITAAMQT@ zohomail.com.
• Michigan Tobacco Quit Line. This free quit smoking coaching hotline provides callers with a personal health coach. 800-784-8669.
• Nar-Anon Meetings—Ishpeming. Family and friends who have addicted loved ones are invited. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Mission Covenant Church, 1001 N. Second St. 906-361-9524.
• Narcotics Anonymous Meetings— Marquette. Family and friends who have addicted loved ones are invited. Open meetings on Wednesdays and Sundays, 7:30 p.m. Closed meeting on Fridays, 7:30 p.m. Downstairs Social Room, Marquette Hope First Campus, 111 E. Ridge St. (use Ridge Street entrance).
• National Alliance on Mental Illness—In-Person Support Group. Individuals living with mental illness and friends or families living with
an individual with mental illness are welcome. March 10 and 20 (email ckbertucci58@charter.net to confirm meeting). 7 p.m. 1025 W. Washington St., Suite C, Marquette. 906-360-7107 or namimqt.com.
• Nicotine Anonymous. 415-7500328 or nicotine-anonymous.org.
• Parkinson’s Support Group. Open to people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. March 19. 2 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-228-0456.
• SMART Recovery—Calumet. A self-help group for alcohol and substance abuse and other addictive behaviors. Mondays, 7 p.m. Copper Country Mental Health, 56938 Calumet Ave. smartrecovery.org.
• SMART Recovery—Hancock. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m. Conference Room No. 5, U.P. Health System–Portage Hospital, 500 Campus Dr. smartrecovery.org.
• SMART Recovery—Marquette (Zoom). Mondays, noon. Via Zoom. smartrecovery.org.
• Take Off Pounds Sensibly. This is a non-commercial weight-control support group. Various places and times throughout the U.P. 800-932-8677 or TOPS.org.
• Virtual Caregiver Support Group. U.P. family caregivers are welcome to join. A device with an internet connection, webcam, microphone and an email address are necessary. Advanced registration required. Second Tuesday of each month. 2 p.m. 906-217-3019 or caregivers@upcap.org.
• Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Supplemental Food Program. Clinics include nutritional counseling and coupon pick-up. Appointments required. Call for Marquette County schedule. mqthealth.org or 906-475-7846.
