Marquette Monthly, published by Model Town Publishing, LLC, located at PO Box 109, Gwinn, MI, 49841, is locally and independently owned. Entire contents Copyright 2024 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 $65 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.
About the Cover Artist
Diana Magnuson has illustrated 100 children’s books, is a muralist, a gallery artist and a portraitist with a focus on nature. For more information on Magnuson or to view additional works, visit dianamagnuson.com. The tractor image on the cover is from Seeds & Spores Family Farm.
5 City notes
HigHligHts of important Happenings in tHe area
12 then & now Superior View elm avenue in munising
13 new york tiMes Crossword Puzzle take tHe el train (answers on page 61)
eleni robertSon u p farmers overcome obstacles to feed tHe community
29 the arts
brad GiSchia
NMU grad Kelsey MaNN directed ‘iNside OUt 2’
33 on CaMPus
erin elliott bryan NOrtherN MichigaN UNiversity celebrates 125 years
40 sPorting life
Jim laJoie NegaUNee’s PaUl JacObsON is a hall Of faMer
44 baCk then larry chabot sidnaw: a small town witH an intriguing History
47 loCals
Jennifer champaGne a profile of writer and Historian larry cHabot
50 in the outdoors Scot Stewart animals bask in tHe sun for tHeir daily needs
56 lookout Point
Jennifer champaGne ‘UNder the radar MichigaN’ visits MUNisiNg
60 on CaMPus
Jim laJoie renovated vandament arena will soon be unveiled
64 the arts
brad GiSchia yoop! fest iv is coming to tHe calumet tHeatre
67 the sPirit of water
Jon maGnuSon introducing a new series on protecting drinking water
69 suPerior reads Victor r. VolKman a well-researcHed History of tHe snowmobile
71 Poetry
ronnie ferGuSon proper perspective
72 on CaMPus
news from u.p. universities and colleges
74 Coloring Page
becauSe marquette pictured rocks
75 out & about erin elliott bryan & carrie uSher september events and music; art and museum guides
Carnegie Library encourages residents to acquire cards
To mark Library Card Sign-up Month in September, the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library is inviting everyone to discover the resources and opportunities available at local libraries. A library card allows users to enhance their skills, find valuable information and connect with fellow readers.
Library cards for the Ishpeming library are available for free to residents living within the City of Ishpeming and surrounding townships, including Champion, Ely, Humboldt, Ishpeming and Tilden townships. Negaunee residents with a Negaunee library card are also eligible to sign up for an Ishpeming card.
For information, contact librarian Nicole Johnson at 906-486-4381 or njohnson@ishpeminglibrary.info, or visit ishpeminglibrary.info.
League of Women Voters to meet on Sept. 4
The League of Women Voters of Marquette County will hold its next membership meeting at 6:45 p.m. on Sept. 4 in Studio 1 on the lower level of Peter White Public Library in Marquette. Social time will begin at 6:30 p.m.
The meeting will feature a discussion of local opportunities for civic engagement led by Marquette Mayor Sally Davis.
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 information, email lwvmqtco@gmail.com.
Bowhunters club seeks new members
The Sands Township Deertrack Bowhunters Club is seeking new members, hunters and nonhunters alike. The club will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 7 for anyone wishing to see the facility.
The range is a professionally designed walk-through range with 3D and bag targets of multiple distances as well as a practice range. Membership (which costs $35 for a single or $55 for a family annually) provides the combination for the gate, and the
city notes
United Way fundraiser features Red Wings, Carlson and ‘Slap Shot’ screening
The Yoopers United Hockey Team and the United Way of Marquette County have announced that Steve Carlson, of the fictional Hanson brothers from the 1977 film “Slap Shot,” will join Yoopers United for their game against the Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association on Sept. 13 in Marquette. Carlson, above center in a scene from “Slap Shot,” is a former Marquette Iron Ranger and retired NHL forward. Carlson appeared in 66 games for Marquette, recording 34 goals and 53 assists for 87 points in his only season with the Iron Rangers before heading to the Johnstown Jets of the North American Hockey League, where he helped the team win the championship in 1975. Carlson also played five seasons in the World Hockey Association and one season with the Los Angeles Kings in the National Hockey League. Carlson was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in 2021 and was able to beat his cancer this year. One of the many organizations that the United Way of Marquette County supports is Cancer Care of Marquette County, which will host a showing of “Slap Shot” on Sept. 14 at Blackrocks Brewery to celebrate Carlson’s remission. Marquette County Hockey Night on Sept. 13 at the Berry Events Center will raise money for the United Way of Marquette County. Follow the organization on Facebook for the most up-to-date information. (Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures)
facility can be used anytime.
The range is located off County Road 553 between UPAWS and the Marquette County Fairgrounds. Signs will be posted. For information, visit deertrackbowhunters.com.
Marquette to dedicate Indigenous art installation
The City of Marquette on Sept.
6 will host the installation of the “Seven Grandfather Teachings” sculpture by Indigenous artist Jason Quigno, a tribal citizen of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.
Quigno created a large-scale stone sculpture that embodies the seven teachings rooted in Anishinaabe culture — respect, love, bravery, honesty, wisdom, humility and truth — that are carved into seven locally quarried stones.
The public art sculpture unveiling ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the installation site at the base of the new piers behind Hampton Inn.
will kick off with “Recognizing Conservation Champions,” presented by alliance president Jeff Towner, at 7 p.m. on Sept. 11 in the Shiras Room at Peter White Public Library. Towner will highlight several men and women who were key players in bringing various species back from the brink of extinction.
The Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance, founded in 1992, represents birders from Marquette and Alger counties. The group engages in a variety of community involvement, including monthly programs, field trips, bird counts and sponsoring U.P. avian research. For information, visit laughingwhitefishbirdalliance.com.
U.P. Notable Book Club to welcome Gregory Lusk
The Crystal Falls Community District Library in partnership with the U.P. Publishers and Authors Association will host Gregory M. Lusk, author of “The Great Seney Fire: A History of the Walsh Ditch Fire of 1976,” in an online conversation on Sept. 12. The event, which had originally been scheduled for July 11, will take place at 7 p.m. EDT (6 p.m. CDT) via Zoom.
At 8 p.m. in Mattson Lower Harbor Park, Waawiyeyaa, a local Anishinaabe-based rock band, will perform original music. At 8:45 p.m., the Big Drum and Teal Lake Singers will play traditional Ojibwe music. This will be accompanied by a laser light show projected onto the ore dock. The event is free and open to the public.
The “Seven Grandfather Teachings” sculpture will be the city’s first major Indigenous public art installation and will serve as the centerpiece of the new City Shoreline Cultural Trail. This trail, honoring the community’s cultural heritage, will feature public space design, public art and interpretive signage.
For information, contact the City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center at 906-228-0472.
Local bird alliance to meet Sept. 11
The 2024-25 meetings of the Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance
Lusk fought the fire — the largest, most costly forest fire that had burned in Michigan since 1908 — in the summer of 1976. The fire burned until winter snow finally extinguished it. It is recommended to borrow a copy of the book from a local library or purchase from a local bookseller in advance. For information about the U.P. Notable Book list, U.P. Book Review and UPPAA, visit upnotable. com.
For Zoom information for the Sept. 12 event, contact Evelyn Gathu in advance at 906-875-3344 or egathu@ crystalfallslibrary.org.
Wildlife food plot field day is Sept. 14 in Escanaba
Those interested in planting a food plot for wildlife can spend a day in the field to learn about crops, planting techniques, soil testing and equipment. The session will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Michigan State University Forestry Innovation Center in Escanaba.
Leaders will showcase more than 10 different food plots with combinations of different crops, providing a diverse range of examples to explore. The event and lunch, provided on site from Rollin’ Smoke Barbeque, are
free. Registration is required by Sept. 8. For information, call 906-786-1575 or visit events.anr.msu.edu.
Negaunee to host Old Town, e-bike events for seniors
Two events will take place at 2 p.m. on Sept. 18 in Negaunee. They are open to the public but geared toward seniors.
Registration for a presentation on Old Town history will begin at 1:45 p.m. at the Negaunee Senior Center. Local historian Virginia Paulson will share her extensive research to bring to life a collection of Old Town photos.
Following the presentation, Paulson will lead the group on a barrier-free walk for further discussion.
Registration for the Discover E-Bikes Clinic and Trail Ride will begin at 1:45 p.m. at the Jim Thomas Pavilion. Love and Bicycles co-owners Jon Becker and Blake Becker will conduct a clinic on e-bikes and other wheeled bikes with seniors in mind. Demonstration bikes will be available for beginners to try.
Those wishing to participate in an Iron Ore Heritage Trail ride will head east as a group and meet up with IOHT administrator Bob Hendrickson, who will discuss work being done at a scenic overlook. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bikes, regular or electric.
A limited number of discounted rental bikes will be available through Love and Bicycles. To reserve a bike, call 906-401-0096.
These events are sponsored by the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel. A suggested donation of $5 will support the Heritage Trail, the Negaunee History Museum and the Negaunee Senior Center.
Online caregiver workshop to begin Sept. 19
Registration is under way for Savvy Caregiver, a nationally recognized educational training program for family members caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or memory loss and are living at home.
The program is designed to give caregivers relevant knowledge, skills and mastery to support the person living with dementia and to take care of themselves. Topics will include information about Alzheimer’s and related dementias, the role of confusion and its effects on behavior, the stages of dementia, and how to keep the person engaged and involved in daily activities. Decision making for difficult issues that caregivers often face and
caregiver self-care exercises will also be highlighted.
The workshop will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. EDT on Thursdays, Sept. 19 through Oct. 24, via Zoom. Savvy Caregiver is offered by Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress. There is no charge for this workshop, but registration is required. Registration will end on Sept. 8 or when the class is full. To register, visit upcap.org (click on “Events”) or call 2-1-1 for assistance.
Fayette Historic State Park to host paranormal events
Twonights of paranormal investigations will take place on Sept. 20 and 21 at Fayette Historic State Park in Garden. Attendees will learn how to become a member of a paranormal team and participate in a real investigation.
Participants are reminded to dress for the weather as the event will occur in rain or moonshine. Flashlights are recommended to navigate the park in the dark.
Investigations will occur at various times each night from 7 to 11 p.m.; online pre-registration is required. A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Michigan state parks. For information, call 906-6442603, email thilla@michigan.gov or visit michigan.gov/dnr.
PWPL used book sale begins Sept. 26
TheFriends of Peter White Public Library will hold a used book sale Sept. 26 to 28. Thousands of books, CDs and DVDs, plus a number of framed artwork pieces, will be available for purchase at bargain prices in the library’s Community Room. The presale will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 26; admission is $5. The sale will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 27. On Sept. 28, the half-price sale will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The bag sale will take place from 1:45 to 4 p.m. with a cost of $5 per bag.
Proceeds will support the library’s programs and the purchase of materials and equipment. For information, call 906-228-9510 or visit pwpl.info.
Negaunee’s inaugural Fall Fest is Sept. 28
Negaunee will host its first Fall Fest, sponsored by the Downtown Development Authority, from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 28.
DDA-sponsored events will include cornhole, pony rides, tractor hay rides, music, a special Farmers Market and inflatable obstacle course. Downtown and local businesses will also hold different on-site activities. For information, call 906-475-7700 or visit cityofnegaunee.com.
Bradford Veley is a freelance cartoonist, illustrator and homesteader in the U.P. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram and at bradveley.com.
Art association issues call for entries
The Lake Superior Art Association is accepting entries for its annual Challenge Art Exhibit, which will be on display throughout October in the Deo Gallery at Peter White Public Library. A public reception will take place on Oct. 10.
The theme of the exhibit is “Opposites,” which artists might interpret with colors, shapes, media or subject matter. Artists may enter one two-dimensional or three-dimensional piece. Two-dimensional pieces must be ready for gallery hanging.
Artists may drop off art pieces from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 28 at the Deo Gallery. For information, contact JoAnn Shelby at 906-228-6027 or joann_shelby@hotmail.com.
U.P. Nonprofit Conference scheduled for Oct. 3-4
The U.P. Nonprofit Conference, presented by Grow and Lead in partnership with Connect Marquette, will take place Oct. 3 and 4 at NMU’s Northern Center in Marquette.
The conference brings together nonprofit leaders, board members, staff and volunteers from throughout the U.P. for learning and networking. The conference will include speakers, workshops, a panel of experts and activities to support and inspire those who work for the greater good in their communities. With this year’s theme of “Create, Communicate, Collaborate,” attendees will gain tools, perspectives and connections to meet organizations’ missions more efficiently and effectively.
The keynote speaker will be Lane Clark of Lane Clark Consulting LLC. Using her background as a social worker, Clark has more than 10 years of experience providing high-level support to CEOs and high-performing professionals.
This year, the event will include the Connect Conference, a second day of professional development on Oct. 4. For information, visit connectmarquette.org.
Grow and Lead provides nonprofit organizations with expertise, training and resources so that all youth can thrive in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The organization provides skill building workshops, tailored consulting and training, and spreads the word on new ideas, technology and additional resources.
Grow and Lead has a limited number of scholarships available for the conference. For information and to register, call 906-228-8919, email info@glcyd.org or visit glcyd.org.
Barn dance scheduled for Chatham
All ages are invited to celebrate Alger County at a community barn dance from 3 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 22 at the Michigan State University North Barn, N5431 Rock River Rd., Chatham. Admission is free. The event, sponsored by Alger County Communities That Care, will feature square dancing with caller Jo Foley and music by Granny Fox and the Farm Hands Band. There will also be cornhole, kids’ corner, pie and cake auction, Morris Dancers and hayrides by MSU to view the U.P. Research and Extension Center. The Cooking Carberry’s Wood Fire Pizza will be available for cash purchase. Flavored water, hot chocolate and coffee will be provided at no charge. Families may also bring their own picnic dinners. The event is drug- and alcohol-free, which includes e-cigarettes and vape devices. For information, call 906-2022244, email algercountyctc@gmail.com or visit algerctc.org. (Photo courtesy of Alger County Communities That Care)
Ancient artifact conference set for Oct. 4-6
TheAncient Artifact Preservation
Society has announced its 19th annual conference on Ancient America, co-sponsored by Ancient American Magazine, which will take place Oct. 4 to 6 at the Island Resort & Casino Conference Center in Harris.
Featured speakers and topics will include Michael Cremo on “Extreme Human Antiquity,” Wayne May on “News on ‘Michigan Plates’” and Rick Osman on “Some New Interpretations on Burrows Cave, Michigan Tablets, Native American Recurring Symbols,” among others.
New this year will be the “6 in 60,” six 10-minute mini-presentations covering subjects such as online apps for armchair researchers, ancient foot reflexology, how to use LiDAR for research and more. There will also be nightly panel discussions, exhibits, a sales room, silent auction and the opportunity to bring potential artifacts for identification.
The AAPS aims to collect and preserve evidence of ancient civilizations in North America and the Great Lakes in particular to be done in a manner that supports their study by amateur and professional scholars and to educate the public about their signifi-
cance. For information and to register, call 906-942-7865 or visit aapscopper.com.
CROP Hunger Walk scheduled for Oct. 6
TheMarquette County CROP Hunger Walk will take place on Oct. 6 at Marquette Hope Connection, 927 W. Fair Ave.
Walkers will collect monetary donations or nonperishable food items to bring awareness of the hunger needs in the community. Donation packets are available. For information, call Crystal Swanson at 906-225-0595.
TheEscanaba Farmers Market marked its 100th year on Aug. 7 as part of National Farmers Market Week. An ordinance was passed by the Escanaba City Council on March 19, 1924, to formally establish a city market for farmers to sell their goods.
The location specified in the ordinance was on 10th Street, between Ludington Street and First Avenue North. It remained in that location until the Escanaba Marketplace was built on Ludington Street in 2017.
As part of the Aug. 7 celebration, music was provided by the Escanaba
City Band, which also celebrated 100 years, and a proclamation was read by Mayor Mark Ammel.
Farmers markets are held from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays, June through October, at the Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St.
DNR announces successful fish stocking in 2024
TheMichigan Department of Natural Resources stocked a total of 9,118,112 fish that weighed nearly 321 tons and consisted of 10 different species and one hybrid. Releasing fish early in spring can reduce their loss to major bird predators, like cormorants, whose peak migration times come later in the season.
The Marquette State Fish Hatchery stocked 323,710 yearling lake trout, brook trout and splake (a hybrid of lake trout and brook trout) that in total weighed 41,771 pounds. This hatchery stocked 90 inland and Great Lakes sites.
The number and type of fish produced vary by hatchery, as the source and temperature of the water determine which fish can be raised in that location. Fish are reared in Michigan’s state fish hatcheries anywhere from one month to one and a half years before they are stocked.
Fish stocking is an important activity to provide Michigan residents and visitors with high-quality fishing opportunities. These efforts also bring an estimated $4.2 billion into the state’s economy and help support a Great Lakes fishery valued at more than $7 billion.
Partridge Creek Farm receives Innovation Award
Partridge
Creek Farm was awarded the Innovation Hub Award for its Food Futures Project: Connecting Rural Production, Procurement and Processing in the U.P. through Education, Collaboration and Communi-
ty. Partridge Creek is one of only two Michigan organizations to receive this award.
This initiative will enhance access to locally grown produce from Partridge Creek Farm by incorporating it into the cafeterias of Negaunee and Ishpeming school districts. The produce will be processed at Northwoods Test Kitchen and prepared by Chartwells, ensuring that students receive fresh and nutritious meals.
The Food Futures Project addresses the challenges of traditional funding models that often favor large-scale, corporate farming, leaving small, diversified farms and rural communities underserved. By implementing food safety procedures and creating integrated supply chains, the project will connect local farms directly with school cafeterias.
It will also involve students in choosing their lunch options, promote healthier eating habits and strengthen local agriculture, and develop templates to help other rural communities adopt similar practices. For information, visit partridgecreekfarm.org.
From the desk of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
• Whitmer has appointed Bradford Slagle of Marquette to the Michigan Veterans’ Facility Authority Board of Directors. Slagle is the retired CEO of Michigan Veterans Health System and a former administrator for D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette.
• Whitmer has appointed Dennis Smith of Marquette to the Commission on Services to the Aging. Smith is president of Dennis H. Smith Consulting and the former president and CEO of the Upper Peninsula Health Plan.
Local business news in brief
• AAA, The Auto Club Group, has opened its new Marquette office at 3225 U.S. Hwy. 41 West, inside
DID YOU KNOW ...
there were soccer leagues in the Upper Peninsula?
In the early 20th century, there was a soccer league in the Copper Country and another on the Gogebic iron range. Clubs were centered around mines and dominated by Cornishmen and other immigrants familiar with the sport. Some of these clubs existed into World War II.
Submitted by Dr. Russell M. Magnaghi, history professor emeritus of NMU and author of several books, including “Classic Food and Restaurants of the Upper Peninsula.”
Rozsa Center announces lineup
The Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts at Michigan Technological University has announced its 2024-25 Rozsa Presenting Series, which will include eight events including a film created in real time, displays of human strength and stand-up comedy. The season will begin with the Rozsa Soirée, a launch party fundraiser featuring an exclusive backstage concert with Gina Chavez, on Sept. 6. This year’s Van Evera Distinguished Lecture Series speaker will be Sharon McMahon, who has been dubbed “America’s Government Teacher,” on Sept. 19. Hub New Music (pictured above), a quartet of flute, clarinet, violin and cello, will perform on Oct. 11 in the McArdle Theatre. Manual Cinema’s “Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster” will take place on Oct. 19. This original film, based on two Mo Willems books, will come to life as Manual Cinema scores, performs and projects the film in real time. Holiday Nostalgia Night is set for Dec. 14. The all-ages celebration will include a screening of a classic holiday film followed by trivia, music and holiday drinks. Water Street Dance Milwaukee Winter Carnival Performance will take place on Feb. 8, 2025. Yamato: The Drummers of Japan will take the stage on March 8, 2025. The drummers will display their physical strength as they use their entire bodies to produce thunderous music in a high-energy performance. The series will wrap with the relatable humor of Zarna Garg on March 22, 2025. Tickets for the Presenting Series are Pay As You’re Able. For information, visit mtu.edu/rozsa. (Photo by Clay Larsen)
the Walmart Supercenter. Select AAA products and services are available at the Marquette location, including insurance, membership, travel, virtual passport photos and more. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For information, call 906-225-6750 or visit acg.aaa.com.
• NeuroFit, LLC has announced the opening of its comprehensive neurofeedback clinic at 712 Chippewa Square, Suite 202, in Marquette. Founded by Cami Storm, a registered nurse, NeuroFit offers a noninvasive and painless method designed to retrain and optimize brain function. It has shown benefits for individuals suffering from ADHD, insomnia, concussions, anxiety, depression, working memory problems, long Covid symptoms, brain fog and more. For information or to schedule an appointment, visit neurofitmarquette.com or call 906-235-0561.
• UP Health System–Marquette has received the American College of
Cardiology’s National Cardiovascular Data Registry Chest Pain MI Registry Gold Performance Achievement Award for 2024. The award recognizes UPHS–Marquette’s success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/ American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations. UPHS–Marquette is one of only 61 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.
• UP Health System–Marquette has welcomed two cardiologists to its Heart and Vascular Center: Ellen Kehoe, D.O., and Yasser Salem, M.D. Kehoe and Salem provide general cardiology services, including comprehensive consultation, diagnoses and treatment of diseases and conditions of the heart and vascular system. Additionally, they will soon offer Lasix injections, which are used to reduce fluid retention from the body. Salem will also provide care in Delta County at UPHS–Doctors Park. For informa-
Negaunee celebrates LaCombe reopening
The City of Negaunee recently marked the successful reopening of LaCombe Field and celebrated the completion of extensive improvements to make the field a more inclusive space for all community members and visitors. The renovations, made possible through the combined efforts of the Negaunee Little League, the City of Negaunee and contributions from residents, visitors, Negaunee alumni and business owners, were designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy LaCombe Field. Key upgrades include the construction of universally accessible dugouts and sidewalks, the installation of ADA-compliant ramps and the addition of new accessible parking spaces. LaCombe Field is a venue for numerous community events, including the Renee Thomas Memorial Tournament, the Iron Range Women’s League, the old-timers game, the co-ed league and the alumni softball tournament. The project was supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Public Spaces Community Places grant program, which matched the $50,765 in local donations dollar for dollar. (Photo courtesy of the City of Negaunee)
tion or to make an appointment, call 906-449-3440 or visit uphealthsystem.com/heart-vascular.
• UP Health System–Marquette announces the addition of Sara Sutherland, M.D., to its team of emergency medicine physicians. A native of Munising, Sutherland is trained to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. She is also pursuing a fellowship in the Academy of Wilderness Medicine, learning how to best provide specialized medical care in remote, wilderness and expedition environments.
• UP Medical Group, in collaboration with the Advanced Center for Orthopedics, has announced the opening of its bone health clinic. Led by Issam El Bizri, M.D., and Allison Blaksmith, PA-C, the clinic will offer comprehensive services focused on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. The clinic is located at 1414 W. Fair Ave., Suite 344, in Marquette. Patients interested in making an appointment can call 906449-1300 or request a referral from their primary care provider. For information, visit uphealthsystem.com/ orthopedics/bone-heath-clinic.
• Farm Bureau Insurance agent Steffani Baker has teamed with Chris Coleman to form the new
Coleman-Baker Agency at 2315 U.S. Hwy. 41 South, Marquette. Coleman and Baker are licensed, multi-line insurance agents who provide auto, homeowners, life, farm owners and commercial insurance for Marquette County. The office is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evening appointments are available. For information, call 906-225-1328.
• Tervo Insurance Agency, which has served the Copper Country since 1864, has opened a new location at 215 W. Washington St., Marquette. The expansion follows the acquisition of the Foye Insurance Agency in January. Tervo Insurance Agency specializes in personal lines, including home and auto insurance, and commercial lines and partners with a range of reputable insurance carriers. For information, visit tervoagency.com. 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 St. Marquette viewsofthepast.com
The 100 block of Elm Avenue in Munising was dominated in the 1920s by the Sam Marks & Sons building. The business sold dry goods, clothing and shoes. The structure also housed a drugstore and a Victrola dealer.
The former Sam Marks & Sons building at the corner of Elm Avenue and Superior Street in Munising has been renovated and is now home to Gallery Coffee Co. and Down Wind Sports.
TAKE THE EL TRAIN by CARyN RobbINs /
1 Shoots for the moon
8 Saudi’s neighbor
13 Gets ready to surf, maybe 19 Annoyance for a shopkeeper 21 Japanese takeout option 22 Best of all possible worlds
23 Say ‘‘O di’’ instead of ‘‘I do’’?
26 Le Mans race unit: Abbr.
27 Keep from happening 28 ‘‘Once Upon a Mattress’’ prop
Longtime hair-removal brand
Word with hose or line
Sewing-machine pioneer Howe 34 Expert conclusion?
37 Like some wits and wines
38 Eviction notice sent to a New York deli owner?
43 Roadwork might push it back, in brief
44 Like many London skies
45 Something fishy
46 Back in time 47 Scatterbrain
50 ‘‘This thing is SHARP! It handles potatoes and carrots with ease,’’ e.g.
56 ‘‘The Kiss’’ sculptor
57 Stage a hostile takeover of 60 Blue dye 61 Inits. for a hit
69 Interior decorator’s assertion that bold colors are back in style?
73 Like the view from Big Sur
75 Kind of farm
76 Survive a round of musical chairs
77 Setting for the musical ‘‘Two by Two’’
78 Inveigh (against)
81 E-bike alternative
83 Smother, as with sauce
87 Santa’s routes on Christmas Eve?
91 ‘‘I categorically deny that!’’
93 Job-listing abbr.
94 One might be organized by habitat
95 ‘‘A Death in the Family’’ novelist
97 Wall St. debut
98 Advice after one’s rival scores a perfect 10?
104 ‘‘Me day’’ destination
106 Org. with a PreCheck option
107 What fumaroles emit
108 Like streets, but rarely alleyways
109 River through Florence
111 Give an allowance?
114 Lukewarm
116 Had a session
117 Airline’s promise to improve its timeliness?
124 Rim protector
125 ‘‘____ is to place as eternity is to time’’: Joseph Joubert
126 Where the entire ‘‘Newhart’’ series actually took place
127 Guiding principles
128 Hollandaise-sauce ingredients
129 They might get worn down while solving crosswords
1 Stuff served in a horn at a Renaissance faire, perhaps 2 Red or White follower
Magician’s request
‘‘For my money . .’’
Subject of Bravo’s ‘‘Selling Sunset’’
Directional suffix
Company whose name is derived from ‘‘Service Games’’
Looney Tunes bunny
Admitted to a doctor’s office
Ending of a political address
Euphoric moments 49 Not go further than
Panini maker, e.g.
Textbook example
Purges
53 First word of a Stevie Wonder hit 54 Part of a joule
Romance 58 Likely victim on April Fools’ Day
59 Actress Hagen
63 Hollywood hopefuls
65 Final purpose, to Aristotle
67 Surprise 100-Downs
68 ‘‘Ad ____’’ (2019 sci-fi film)
69 Hazard for a jet skier 70 Do in 71 Drink like a dog
72 Its prime minister is known as the Taoiseach: Abbr.
73 When doubled, a dance
74 ‘‘____ y plata’’ (state motto of Montana)
79 Sparkling-juice brand
80 Ill-gotten gains
82 Milkweed leaves, for a monarch caterpillar
84 Athena’s gift to Athens
85 Totally exhausted
86 Bright light in the big city
88 Zodiac feline
89 Type of type
90 Academy endorsements, casually
92 Many a babysitter
95 Visibly stunned
96 Early NASA program
98 Europe’s second-longest river
99 Chutzpah
100 Go on the offensive
101 Some farm machines
102 Kappa follower
103 Mideast dignitaries: Var.
104 Drop in for a sec
105 Honored
110 Predator that can weigh up to six tons
112 Like child’s play
113 Embarassing mistake?
115 Sea-turtle nesting site
118 Indian lentil dish
119 Many debut releases, in brief
120 Mule of old song
121 Dent or scratch
122 Barber’s obstacle
123 Contacts on Instagram, informally No.
Pictured Rocks is America’s first National Lakeshore
‘Unique and spectacular scenery’
In the late 1950s, when the National Park Service was surveying nearly 5,500 miles of Great Lakes shoreline to determine areas suitable for inclusion in the Park Service system, the team came across a section offering “unique and spectacular scenery unmatched elsewhere.”
It features immense weather-sculpted sandstone cliffs with mineral-stained streaks of various colors resulting from groundwater seeping
out of cracks and trickling down the surface. They tower 50 to 200 feet above Lake Superior, which projects a stunningly beautiful hue of turquoise melded with blue.
The surveyors also came upon enormous sand dunes left in the wake of glacial activity; waterfalls and rivers that spill into what regional bias dictates is the greatest of the Great Lakes; and a forest of upland northern hardwoods on the interior rim. There are also tranquil beaches ideal for strolling, swimming or awaiting a
gorgeous tangerine sunset that casts a warm, accentuating glow on the rock face.
By virtue of these abundant assets packed within about a 43-mile span between Munising and Grand Marais, the Pictured Rocks area of Alger County ultimately became America’s first National Lakeshore. President Lyndon Johnson signed the bill in 1966. After several years of land acquisition negotiations — the original plan of a 100,000-acre park was pared down to roughly 71,000 acres because
of concerns raised by the local forest products industry — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was formally established as a National Park Service unit at a ceremony held Oct. 6, 1972, at Bayshore Park in Munising.
“Pictured Rocks is a special place with landscape and geography so unique it’s almost otherworldly,” said Hannah Bradburn, visual information specialist for the park. “It’s also rare for this part of the country. What makes this unit different from others in the [Park Service] system is the
Story and photos by Kristi Evans
Petit Portal — widely known as Lovers Leap — is one of the most popular formations in the Pictured Rocks area. (Photo by Kristi Evans)
major emphasis on water-based recreation. The cliffs are best viewed from Lake Superior, so many visitors take narrated boat cruises or guided kayak excursions through private concessionaires. People also canoe and fish the inland lakes.”
According to the National Park Service, the federal shoreline zone of Pictured Rocks was established to preserve natural and cultural resources and provide for public recreation. One of its signature landmarks is Miners Castle, with its single remaining turret; a second collapsed into the lake in 2006. Rockfalls along the cliffs are not rare and typically occur in the spring and fall due to the freezing and thawing cycle. Other popular formations are Chapel Rock, topped by a lone white pine estimated to be 250 years old, and Lovers Leap Arch, which kayakers routinely paddle beneath.
The shoreline also features “among the best examples of perched dune systems in the world,” according to the Park Service. A large portion of the Grand Sable Dunes, located in the northeast section of the park, is preserved as a Research Natural Area. There is an overlook at the spot where logs were once placed in a wooden
chute for a quick and easy slide down to Lake Superior. Some visitors quickly traverse down the dune there on foot, but signs at the top clearly warn them of the long, strenuous climb back up, which typically requires leaning forward on all fours. The Log Slide Overlook is accessible via a short trail from a parking lot, which passes a display of historic logging equipment.
Visible in the distance, on the park’s northernmost point, is the majestic Au Sable Light Station. It is billed as perhaps the finest example of vintage masonry lighthouses on the Great Lakes. Built in 1874 — a 150th anniversary celebration took place in August — it was fully automated in 1958. The former U.S. Coast Guard Station on Au Sable Point, along with two others at Grand Marais and Sand Point, represent other symbols of preserved maritime history.
Pictured Rocks offers four-season recreation. Summer is most popular for tourist activities on water and land. Autumn brings brilliant fall colors and exhilarating crisp-weather hikes with fewer crowds. In the winter, cold weather creates frozen waterfalls, called “curtains,” that are rewarding to see, but also a draw for ice climbers. Conditions support snowshoe-
ing and cross-country skiing as well. Spring attracts birders and wildflower lovers. The trails are draped with a vibrant palette of fuchsia lady’s slipper orchids, pale blue forget-me-nots and white trilliums scattered amongst the green ferns. Fishing and hunting are allowed in the park per state regulations.
To accommodate visitors and enhance their experience, roads to several scenic areas were developed, along with 100 miles of hiking trails. Rustic drive-in campgrounds are available at Twelvemile Beach, Hurricane River and Little Beaver Lake. There are also 13 designated backpacking campgrounds. Most are connected by the North Country National Scenic Trail, which skirts the outer edge of the park.
Bradburn said increased traffic at Pictured Rocks over recent years, particularly with the pandemic-instigated boom, has strained its infrastructure and natural resources, an impact shared by other National Parks.
“In the decade leading up to Covid, Pictured Rocks was recording 500,000 to 800,000 annual recreation visits; it had been increasing steadily over the years,” she said. “But then the pandemic hit and visitation ex-
Au Sable Light Station, built in 1874, is billed as perhaps the finest example of vintage masonry lighthouses on the Great Lakes. It is located on the northernmost point in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. (Photo by Kristi Evans)
ploded, with our highest rate to date of 1.3 million in 2021. We saw those effects taper off to around 900,000 last year, but that’s still up from the pre-Covid years.
“A lot of the overall growth has to do with social media. People see photos from really cool, beautiful places and they want to go there and take the same photos. We also have a number of people who come in to request an ink stamp in their National Park Passport book as a way to check off another place. But I also think some of it’s because Pictured Rocks is a popular starter park for people — particularly those from downstate or the Chicago area, who want that first outdoors, National Park experience.”
Percentage increases in backcountry camper numbers have kept pace with visitation, Bradburn said. In 2010, there were just under 15,000 backpackers throughout the year. By 2023, the number had doubled to 30,000.
Jenny and Chris Engstrom of Marquette have completed separate backpacking trips the entire length of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. They have also served as campground hosts and Visitor Center volunteers. Chris embarked on his journey in the late 1970s with a friend he worked
with at a summer camp. They completed the route in a blistering three days and two nights.
“That’s all the time my friend had before he had to return to college,” Chris said. “He lived in Munising and
hiked at Pictured Rocks quite a bit and assured me we could do it. My brother loaned me one of those old aluminum frame backpacks. I also had a little down sleeping bag and pad for underneath it. This was long before there were designated campsites with reservations required, so we could pretty much wing it. We started in Grand Marais and had to sign in there before we hit the trail and report back in when we finished at the other end.”
Jenny’s 2017 backpacking adventure spanned five days and four nights. It was prompted by a Facebook post from a friend, who asked: “If there’s something you’ve always wanted to do, even if you knew you could fail, what would it be?” Jenny responded that she had never backpacked before and would like to make her first attempt at Pictured Rocks someday.
“My friend said, ‘Let’s do it,’ so we plotted it out for six months later,” she said. “I had all used equipment because I didn’t want to invest in new in case I didn’t like it. My pack, called Bertha, was a big girl and heavy — over 60 pounds — and the first two days were in the 90s, even though it
The lone white pine atop Chapel Rock is estimated to be 250 years old. (Photo by Kristi Evans)
was September. At one point we were hiking in pouring rain, up to our ankles in water. I thought I was going to die, but the weather turned nicer and I was happy as could be because I ended up pushing the limits of what I thought I could do. Chris and I have traveled all over the U.S., and Pictured Rocks still tops the list as the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. There’s a therapeutic emotion that always comes when you’re there. He said once when we arrived that it feels like home.”
The couple have also hiked every trail in the park multiple times. Jenny’s favorite is from Beaver Basin out to Spray Falls and back. She said it features a Lake Superior beach, cliffs, waterfall and the Coves, “a really unique place.” It is downhill on the return.
Another popular and scenic day hike is the 10-mile Chapel Loop that passes by the lake, rock and beach of the same name before continuing along the cliffs to Grand Portal Point and Mosquito Beach. The path then veers away from Lake Superior back toward the trailhead parking lot, with an optional spur to Mosquito Falls along the way. Other waterfalls accessible by foot via short trails from parking areas include Munising, just
behind the Visitor Center; Miners, the park’s most powerful; and Sable Falls, arguably the most scenic because of its cascading tiers.
In 2021, Pictured Rocks implemented a recreation fee program. An annual pass is $45, and a weekly pass that covers everyone in a vehicle is $25. Information on other fee options and eligibility for free passes is available on the website. Bradburn said the fees support maintenance projects at the park. Recent examples include new boardwalks on sensitive areas of trail, a rebuilt staircase leading to Miners Beach and new pit toilets.
Conservation measures at Pictured Rocks involve planting more dune grass because the roots stabilize the sand and prevent erosion. The park also continuously monitors for aquatic invasive species. No zebra mussels have been detected in inland lakes, and Bradburn said the goal is to keep it that way.
Her advice to first-time visitors is to do advance research on points of interest, the reservation requirements for all campgrounds in the park, which fill up early, and information on private concessionaires that offer shuttle transport for thru-hikers, boat cruises, kayak ex-
The cascading tiers of Sable Falls make it a popular destination. It is accessible by foot via a short trail from a parking area. (Photo by Kristi Evans)
cursions and other guided activities. All of that and more is available on the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore official website at nps.gov/piro.
“We encourage people to arrive at the park with a plan,” Bradburn said. “Determine what you want to get out of your visit and the best way to accomplish that. And please remember that a safe trip is a successful trip.”
Editor’s note: A bridge replacement project that is anticipated to run from September through Memorial Day will affect access to the Miners Beach parking lot, but not the castle, falls or other areas of the park. Visitors can still get to the beach via a 1.5-mile round-trip hike from Miners Castle.
Kristi Evans completed a solo backpacking adventure of the entire Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in 2021 and recounted the journey in a published blog with photos at kristiwanders.blogspot.com. She is a public relations professional, writer and hobby photographer who spends much of her free time outdoors.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore welcomed about 900,000 visitors last year. (Photo by Kristi Evans)
locals
U.P. farmers overcome significant obstacles to help build the local food economy
‘We
By Eleni Robertson
Twant to feed this community’
he Upper Peninsula is not a place anyone would consider ideal for farming. It has an extremely short growing season, the soil can be either very rocky or very sandy, and there’s no nearby metropolis to ensure an easy customer base. Despite these obstacles, there is a new breed of dedicated U.P. farmers committed to overcoming them. They are farming on a small scale, serving customers at farmers markets and with weekly community supported agriculture boxes. They know their customers, and their customers know them. They are usually completely organic, working to make the most wholesome, nutritious food possible. And most of them are first-generation farmers.
A farmer wears many hats. Any-
one who has had even a small garden knows how much work they can be, but a farmer also has to be a business person, a builder and maintain good relationships with their customers. It’s a lot of work, but they love what they do.
“We all want to feed this community,” said McKenzie Guzman of Yooper Country Farm. She and her husband, Jose, run their farm together in Chatham in Alger County.
While there are farms across the Upper Peninsula, Chatham is an agricultural hub. A large amount of the produce sold at the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market comes from the area. “The soil here is actually incredible,” Guzman said. “A lot of the Upper Peninsula is very sandy; it would take a lot to get it ready for crops.”
The Guzmans moved to their farm at the end of 2020. McKenzie grew
up in Colorado but was born in the Upper Peninsula and visited often in the summer. Jose is from El Salvador, about as different as one can get from the climate of the Upper Peninsula.
Nevertheless, they searched for the right property to start a farm and found what they felt was the perfect spot. “We wanted the right amount of pasture versus forest; we wanted a little bit of each. … It’s got a pond and a little stream; it’s high and dry,” McKenzie Guzman said.
Like many farmers in the Upper Peninsula, they were not born into farming and are self-taught in everything they do. “I had done a little bit of urban farming in Colorado,” Guzman said. “I raised ducks and rabbits and had a big garden, but it was very small scale.”
Needless to say, it’s a constant learning process. “I listen to hours and
hours of books and podcasts because we have so much time to listen and learn while we’re working out there,” she said.
But they love the challenge. “I just love being outside; I love working with my hands,” Guzman said. “The farm gives you the opportunity to build. You have to know how to do fencing, how structures work, how to run equipment, how different plants and trees grow, how to be a business person and communicate with customers. … I get bored super easily, and here you’re never bored.”
The biggest challenge, unsurprisingly, is the short growing season. “People come to the market and they say, ‘How do you have onions so early?’” she said. “Well, we do all of these things to get them in the ground earlier or use the hoop houses. … You couldn’t make a living if you didn’t do
The owners of Case Country Farm in Chatham decided to focus on beef after recognizing a need in the local market. (Photo courtesy of Case Country Farm)
these things because otherwise you’d only have a few months to grow.”
The techniques she referred to are known as season extension techniques. Hoop houses are popular, since they create a warmer, sheltered microclimate without using extra energy, unlike a heated greenhouse. This allows for earlier outdoor planting in the spring, warmer conditions for heat-loving crops in the summer and longer harvests in the fall.
Indoor seed starting is also necessary to combat the short season. Many seeds are started indoors under grow lights and sometimes on heat mats while winter is still raging outdoors, then they are transplanted when conditions allow.
All of this requires diligent planning, and Guzman considers planning to be one of her strengths. “Once the season starts, every day you gotta follow the plan,” she said. “I don’t change the plan in the middle of the season; if it’s not in the plan, it doesn’t happen.”
This works well for her and Jose, since he works better as an implementer. “I plan and I see the big picture, but I have a hard time starting, or I start the project and never finish it,” she said. Together, they make a great team. “I think the fact that he and I want to do this together makes things easier, working together towards a common goal and ideals.”
But there’s stress, too. Crops can fail for seemingly no good reason. Weather can create problems ranging from drought to damaging hail. Or a pest infestation can have farmers bending over backwards trying to find a creative solution. When asked how they deal with stress, Guzman responded, “I don’t spend a lot of time thinking about it. That would be soul-crushing. … You can’t try to control every little thing. You learn and move on.”
And there is a ton to learn about organic farming techniques. Guzman is proud to say they don’t use any chemical fertilizers, herbicides or
McKenzie and Jose Guzman of Yooper Country Farm know their customers, and their customers know them. (Photo courtesy of Yooper Country Farm)
pesticides. Not only do these chemicals have negative impacts on human, wildlife and soil health, they are also a quick fix that doesn’t help the problem in the long run.
Instead, compost, which is just broken-down organic matter, can be used to add vital nutrients while improving the soil structure. Crops can be planted closer together to shade out weeds, or landscape cloth can be used. Physical barriers such as row covers can be used to keep insects away. These are just some of many organic solutions.
Find your people
Long term, Yooper Country’s goal is to commit to 100 customers under their community supported agriculture, or CSA, program, and they are currently at 50. “Once we hit 100 customers, it would be about offering those customers more,” Guzman said. “I think that’s what you have to do when you’re a small farm, is find your people.” Other farms find their version of that, so with enough demand, there’s really no competition. Each
McKenzie Guzman is proud of the fact that Yooper Country Farm does not use chemical fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides. (Photo courtesy of Yooper Country Farm)
farm can have its own following.
CSA memberships work like a subscription — customers pay upfront for a certain number of months, then receive weekly boxes of seasonal produce. The real benefit of having regular CSA members is that farmers no longer have to work to find customers to buy their products and can instead focus on creating the product itself. For customers, the benefit is the consistency of the supply of vegetables.
Fortunately, Marquette is an excellent place to recruit new CSA members because there is high demand for local products. The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market has also been a great place for Yooper Country to sell. But because there is such a wonderful bounty of vegetables available at the market, Guzman explains that farmers have to find a niche. “The things we do really well are onions, garlic and Brussels sprouts,” she said. There are other farms that might make a great salad mix or perfect tomatoes, and that’s their own niche.
Guzman loves the relationships they have formed with neighboring farmers. “We love the other farmers. We’re really close; we all go to the bar probably once a month and sit and un-
wind farmer-style,” she said. “I don’t look at anybody else as competition. We all want to feed this community, so if we can help each other out and answer each other’s questions … it makes us all stronger.”
Among their neighbors are Trevor and Maria Case of Case Country Farm, also located in Chatham. Case Country Farm produces pork, beef
and occasionally chicken that you need to taste to understand: This meat is different.
Trevor and Maria grew up in Munising and enrolled at Northern Michigan University. While attending NMU, they moved to Chatham because it was an affordable place from which to commute. “We were going to college for business degrees and
Maria and Trevor Case of Case Country Farm searched throughout Michigan and Wisconsin for a meat processor that could meet their list of requirements. (Photo courtesy of Case Country Farm)
were just going to get normal jobs,” Trevor Case said.
Since they had space on their Chatham property, they started a small hobby farm with vegetables, chickens and then some pigs. When they ate the meat they had produced, Case said, “We thought it was the best meat ever. People would pay for this. … It revolutionizes pork.”
They officially started their farm in 2016. They noticed at the time that the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market didn’t have anyone selling meat. “You couldn’t get bacon, you couldn’t get something to eat there, there were a lot of areas not being optimized, yet there were lots of local veggie farmers, so I thought we’re either going to compete with other veggie farmers — or we can focus on meat,” Case said.
And so they did.
Case went through a huge trial period to make sure he was ending with the best possible product. “I drove to every USDA processor in the state of Michigan and Wisconsin and dropped off a pig. There were 17 of them. … I found out which one did it best,” he said. “If you spend six months raising a pig, and you bring it to the butcher and it comes back not done well, it reflects bad on you and then you hate that because of all the work you put into it. … So I found one that was willing to do non-synthetic nitrates, MSG free, and who would process it the way I wanted it.”
Today, Case Country Farm products are a staple at the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market. Anyone
who has been to the market has probably smelled the smash burgers and breakfast burritos they cook that are now in high demand. “We usually sell about 150 burritos and 150 burgers on Saturday. … I spend all day Friday prepping for those four hours,” Case said.
Like many vegetable farmers, the Cases have recently started to sell their products in year-round, weekly CSA boxes in addition to selling at the market. “We have the same customer base, but now we’ve manicured that into consistent supply throughout the year,” Case said. “We’ve found we can harvest for half the year and store
for half the year. … Consistency is key to farming.”
Another key is having multiple revenue streams. In addition to the market and CSA, their meat is featured in restaurants, and they have freezers with meat for sale at Lakeshore Depot in Marquette and Hillside Party Store in Munising. “With farming,” Case said, “it used to be that you could do just one thing, like be a grain farmer. Now if you’re going to make it, you have to diversify and you have to build value.”
Like all farmers, Case has seen his share of challenges and obstacles, but also like all farmers, he seems to have
an attitude of perseverance. “There’s a lot of stuff like fencing, taking care of animals, that I’ve had to learn because I didn’t grow up with it, and that’s my learning curve,” he said.
Case also said the fact that they are first-generation farmers may actually be a good thing. “I think not having bad habits from growing up on a farm has helped us, not having the ‘Grandpa did it this way’ mentality,” he said.
Evolving to serve the market
Case Country Farm has constantly evolved based on what they see the most need for. “We didn’t even have cows a couple years ago, but we saw a need for beef and now ground beef is one of our biggest sellers,” Case said. Just as they had started with more vegetables and moved to meat, they adjust based on what the community needs. Now they get vegetables from other local farmers, and those farmers get their meat from Case.
In general, Case’s philosophy on farming is consistent with that of other small-scale farmers. “Everybody thinks that they have to go bigger with farming, and you don’t if your aspirations aren’t big,” he said. “If you just want to provide for your family, you can do that while producing for 100 other families … smaller bites of the market. We can keep the quality high, keep the margins where they need to be for us, as long as you find enough people that value what you’re doing.”
Because their product is so different, they do find customers who value what they offer. Different customers are attracted to different aspects of it.
Farmers in climates like the Upper Peninsula’s rely on season extension techniques such as indoor seed starting. (Photo courtesy of Yooper Country Farm)
Some customers are attracted by the meat itself, such as the superior taste or quality, and some are drawn by the sustainable and humane practices used in the production of the meat.
In a small-scale operation like this, to put it simply, animals are allowed to be animals. All animals have plenty of space to engage in their natural behaviors. Pigs dig up roots in the forest, chickens forage for bugs and greens, cows graze in a vast grassland. Case utilizes agroforestry and rotational grazing principles in an effort to be sustainable. These practices allow their farm to be part of the landscape, rather than a domination of it.
Case hopes to further educate people about what they do and why. “One of our aspirations,” he said, “is to educate people more on the difference between buying and supporting something like this” — versus buying beef shipped in from another country.
More than anything, Case stressed how grateful he is to the community for supporting what they do. “The
people in Marquette and all our customers are supporting the local economy here,” he said. “If you want to see more of these local farms, value them and support them, because the minute they don’t have enough value or support they won’t be there anymore, and it won’t be their choice. It’s the
customers’ choice whether or not they value it.”
More and more people seem to value knowing where their food comes from. By supporting local farms, consumers can encourage even more farmers to come to the Upper Peninsula and continue to build a thriving
local food economy that produces fresh, nutritious and sustainable food. MM
Eleni Robertson lives in the heart of the Hiawatha National Forest and enjoys writing, playing drums and spending time outdoors.
Hoop houses provide a way to thrive in the Upper Peninsula’s short growing season. (Photo courtesy of Yooper Country Farm)
arts
NMU alumnus Kelsey Mann reflects on his directorial debut, the blockbuster ‘Inside Out 2’
Finding joy in the journey
By Brad Gischia
Finding joy in your life is a choice you need to make. This is one of the core ideas in the latest offering from Pixar Animation Studios, “Inside Out 2.” It was the guiding light of the film’s director, Kelsey Mann.
Mann grew up in Burnsville, Minnesota, a suburb of Minneapolis. He was an ’80s kid. He loved “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones” — just like many in his generation.
“But what I really loved was the Muppets,” Mann said. “There was something about them. They could be so emotive even though they were only a piece
of fabric. They could be funny, and then sometimes they could be very serious.”
That early love of Jim Henson’s characters instilled in Mann the idea that work could be creative as well as meaningful.
As the end of high school approached, Mann did what so many students do and went to the guidance counselor’s office. He entered all of his college criteria into a computer and received a printout of schools in the region that met his criteria. A few days later, he received a mailer from Northern Michigan University and recognized it as being one of the schools on his printed list, so he scheduled a visit to Marquette.
“We came in the summertime,” Mann said. “Even then I remember my dad and I driving up some of the hills and him saying, ‘These are going to be awful in the winter.’”
Despite the weather predictions, Mann decided NMU was the school for him. “We really fell in love with Marquette,” he said. “The vibe they have at NMU was perfect. Not too big or too small. It sort of reminded me of the TV show ‘Northern Exposure.’”
When Mann started college, he wanted to major in film; but the worries about how to make it in such a competitive industry were heavy on him even then. “I loved movies and drawing growing
Northern Michigan University graduate Kelsey Mann worked on the story for ‘Inside Out 2’ on the shore of Lake Superior. (Photo courtesy of Kelsey Mann)
up,” he said, “but to make it in this industry you have to be really good at what you do. I was always known as ‘the kid who could draw,’ and I decided that maybe I could get a job working in film if I could hone that drawing skill.”
Animation would be the obvious choice as a field of study, but NMU did not have an animation program at the time, so Mann decided to look elsewhere and applied to transfer to the California Institute of the Arts. He was turned down and went back to his adviser at Northern, who suggested switching to illustration as a major.
“It was all about fundamentals,” Mann said. “The human figure is incredibly hard to draw and to draw accurately, and to communicate intent through your drawing.” But animation was still on his brain. “For your senior project, you have to have all these paintings in a series, and I asked if I could do an animated short. [Professor Thomas] Cappuccio said that was fine as long as I had a few paintings as well.”
Professor emeritus Michael Cinelli remembers Mann as a student at NMU. “He was a really nice guy, very outgoing and friendly,” Cinelli said. “I had him for a directed study and remember an animation film he did.” Mann graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration.
“At that time, we were kind of experiencing a renaissance in animation, especially from Disney,” Mann said, noting films such as “The Little Mermaid,” “The Lion King” and “Alad-
din.” “But I really did love ‘Beauty and the Beast.’”
There was also a small company that had just stepped into the game, a digital animation movie house called Pixar, which had released two animated films to great acclaim: “Toy Story” and “A Bug’s Life.”
A willingness to work
Mann applied to Pixar after graduation but was not hired. “I went to New York and started working there,” he said. He spent the next decade working on shorts for several different companies, including Titmouse, Cartoon Network and Lucasfilm, in various capacities. “I never really said no to any job,” Mann said, “whether I knew how to do it or not.” It’s that willingness to work that put his name in the credits of shows like “The Clone Wars” and “The Amazing Screw-On Head.”
“I owe a lot to [Titmouse owner] Chris Prynoski,” Mann said. “He gave me my first big start at Cartoon Network and would feed me jobs on the side, on nights and weekends.”
Mann spent a good portion of his working time storyboarding, which is the process that needs to happen between a script and actual filming, where an artist draws out scenes so the director can see how they will play out visually.
It was during this time that Mann first began to work digitally, drawing on a computer, and this choice made a huge difference later in his career. “Storyboarding can be very time con-
Pixar,” Mann said. “Sometime around a year in, my story manager on ‘Monsters U’ asked me if I’d ever considered being a story supervisor myself. I was like, ‘No way.’”
‘Remember that kid’
But as the years passed, Mann found himself filling different roles for Pixar. One day in 2020, he had a Google Calendar alert pop up on his computer: “Jim, Pete and Kelsey in Jim’s office.” Jim is Jim Morris, president of the company. Pete is Pete Docter, chief creative officer. Mann said, “I knew this was going to be either the worst meeting or best meeting.”
Mann walked into that office with his name attached to several hit films, including “Monsters University,” “The Good Dinosaur” and “Onward.” He walked out with the offer to direct a new movie in the “Inside Out” world.
suming,” he said. “You sometimes have to draw the same background 20 times, with only slight variations of the figure, so if you’re working traditionally you almost need to have a Xerox machine right at your desk. Digital just saves a lot of time.”
The first decade he spent working in the field became the foundation of everything else. “NMU gave me the drawing fundamentals,” Mann said. “But I didn’t know storyboarding, character design, in-betweening, animation. I had to kind of learn that on my own by taking night and weekend classes. I always had a class going on.”
Mann’s decade in the animation field added not only experience but a sense of professionalism and leadership as well. Putting on many different hats meant that he had directed commercials and drawn storyboards and written scripts. “I never wanted to be pegged as a one-trick pony,” he said. “I always wanted to keep it interesting.”
Mann decided to reapply at Pixar. “Pixar has that same feel to me that Henson does,” Mann said. “Even though you’re watching toys or cars or bugs, they work the character so you can see their humanity and soul. They can feel real emotions and cause the audience to feel real emotions as well.”
He was hired as a story artist and spent the next 10 years working in various roles in Pixar’s many worlds. “When I first got hired, I decided that I wanted to retire as a story artist for
“It was completely not on my radar,” Mann said. “They don’t want you to do it if you’re not into the story, and the film won’t work anyway if you’re not. So I thought about it, and I really loved that first movie.”
He agreed to direct a film.
Back in the non-animated world, fires were raging in northern California. Wildfires were wiping out towns. Mann, like so many others, decided to digitize his photos just in case. As he was going through his collection, he saw something that he might not have noticed before.
“In the first one I was maybe 5, and I had the biggest smile on my face,” he said. “It was my birthday, and I was totally into being celebrated.” As he went through the series of birthday photos, he noticed the smile got smaller and smaller. “It’s interesting because this isn’t some random day. These are all my birthdays. This is a day for me and me alone. And as I became a teenager, you can see that I don’t like it; my smile goes away.
“When I really thought about it, that teenager hated being sung to. Hated the attention. He was always comparing himself with others. You have to learn to deal with what you see in the mirror and learn to love who you are.”
That’s where the seed of “Inside Out 2” was planted. He brought those photos to the creative heads at Pixar and pitched them on that idea. Pixar set him loose with a $200 million budget and the weight of a beloved first film on his mind. “People really love that first movie,” Mann said. “I loved that first movie, so I wanted to make sure it was good for that reason alone.”
‘Inside Out 2’ features several characters from ‘Inside Out,’ plus a handful of new emotions. (Photo courtesy of Pixar)
To help deal with the stress of such an assignment, Mann went back to his childhood photos and found one in particular. “I was maybe 5,” he said, “and I have the biggest smile on my face. I made that the placard for our story room and told myself to remember that kid when you’re working. If I go into this room as Kelsey with a $200 million budget on me, it will crush me. But if I go in as that kid, I have a shot at making something people will really love.”
Then … pandemic.
“Everything shut down, and we were all working remotely anyway, so I thought I’d fly to the U.P. and visit my sister, who still lives in Marquette,” Mann said.
He would spend a portion of his week sitting on the shore of Lake Superior, writing the story of “Inside Out 2” with writing partner Meg LeFauve
on Zoom. “She would write the first part and send it to me, and while I was making notes she’d write the second part,” he said. “I love working with Meg and was so happy she was available for this one.”
The next four years were a hectic scramble to get a film made. Despite the world and all of its pandemic craziness, Mann always kept the younger version of himself in mind. “If I could tell that kid he’d have a chance to do this,” Mann said, “he would be so happy.”
“This team at Pixar is incredible,” Mann said. “We had the largest group of animators ever on a film at 155, and that was just the animators.” He praised the entire crew of “Inside Out 2” and gave them credit for the film being done on time. “It’s actually pretty fast for a Pixar film; usually they take about five years.”
‘Inside Out 2’ has been a global hit at the box office. This poster promotes the film to a Finnish-speaking audience. (Photo courtesy of Pixar)
Incredible box-office success
Theresult … the biggest animated film of all time.
As of Aug. 18, “Inside Out 2” had brought in $1.625 billion globally. It is the highest-grossing animated film in history and ranks No. 10 on the list of highest-grossing films ever.
“Pixar was in a tough place before this film,” Cinelli said. “They were laying people off. Then you approach someone and ask them to help to re-establish this as the premier American animation company. It says a lot about their confidence in Kelsey, and the man himself, that they approached him. He’s a home run.”
The response to the film from fans and industry insiders has been overwhelming. “It’s doing incredible,” Mann said, “beyond anything anybody expected, including myself.” Mann said that not only are people at Pixar and Disney happy with the film, but he’s been getting calls from all over expressing congratulations: “Even my buddies at other studios are excited.”
“The shows I worked on at MTV and Cartoon Network were seen, and a lot of people really love some of that stuff,” Mann said. “But this has been amazing. It’s exploded in a way I’ve never experienced, and it’s such a thrill. I feel so proud of the entire crew.”
Mann said members of the crew have thanked him for being able to work on a project that was so meaningful. “That was something I never expected. … The film industry has been sort of in a strange place for the past several years,” Mann said. “With the pandemic and then the actors’ and writers’ strikes this past year, all of that made this production challenging.”
In the end, the film accomplished what Mann hoped it would. “My hardest time growing up was when I was a teenager,” he said. “I wanted to make an impact on that age group while making a fun movie. If we came out with a meaningful movie that people wanted to watch more than once, I thought it would be a success.”
The box office agrees, and the film’s success is not lost on Cinelli. “This is huge for NMU,” he said. “Universities depend on their alumni. For students to be able to interact with people who were, not so long ago, sitting in the same seats they’re now in, and now this person is out working and successful, it’s a great bridge for them. It’s energizing for the students. … In terms of successful alumni, he’s pretty much at the top.”
Mann was one of those students not that long ago. What would he say to the younger version of himself if he could go back?
“I would tell him not to get discouraged by any dead ends or wrong turns. That’s where your favorite parts will come from,” he said. “I was asked once if I could go back and right the wrongs, get the jobs I thought I wanted then. That was no. If things didn’t happen the way they did, my life would be so different. I wouldn’t have the life I have, the wife I have, the kids I have, and I really love it. I would tell him everything will be OK.”
Mann brings a little bit of the U.P. with him wherever he goes. Those lessons learned early at NMU stick with him, along with friends he made along the way and the places that helped to shape him.
“The U.P. is just great,” he said. “I love hiking Hogback, diving off of Black Rocks. I met my wife in the dorms and proposed to her on top of Sugarloaf. I learned so many good lessons while living there and being at NMU.”
Mann is now in recovery mode after returning from an overseas press tour for the film. But based on the success of “Inside Out 2,” it likely won’t be long before he’s in the thick of it once again.
“We make a movie, and it takes years and years,” he said. “It changes in the process, but what was the core of it never changed. I’m so happy that my initial idea is still at the heart of what it came out to be.”
Mann knows where joy lives, and it shows in the work.
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.
This photo from his childhood provided inspiration to Kelsey Mann through the four years it took to create ‘Inside Out 2.’ (Photo courtesy of Kelsey Mann)
on campus
NMU celebrates 125 years University community remembers its history and looks to the future
By Erin Elliott Bryan
Give us a school, a Normal School! Our children cry for learning There’s work enough for hand and tool, and wages for the earning. But when it comes to train the mind, we have to be like Dante And find a guide to go below and stew in — Ypsilanti!
— G. Mott Williams, 1899
When Northern State Normal School hosted its first day of classes on Sept. 19, 1899, just six faculty members were responsible for the instruction of 32 students, all aspiring teachers, on the second and third floors of Marquette City Hall.
Today, 125 years later, the school is known as Northern Michigan University, a four-year public institution that educates more than 7,000 students pursuing more than 180 undergraduate and graduate programs — ranging from education and nursing to dance and criminal justice — on a sprawling 360-acre campus in the heart of Marquette.
NMU has hosted sitting U.S. presidents, trained Olympic athletes and piloted new technology initiatives. It supports independent media in print, radio and television; celebrates a diverse group of student organizations; and offers a natural landscape that nurtures the soul as well as the mind.
Over these last 125 years, NMU has remained true to its origins while evolving to meet the demands of a changing world and a growing student population. Ideally, NMU graduates will receive a well-rounded education in accordance with the university’s eight core values.
These values — community, opportunity, rigor, environment, inclusion, connections, innovation and wellbeing — will set them up for future success in their careers and in their lives.
“I think of Northern as a launchpad, a springboard, a real asset for the Upper Peninsula when it comes not just to workforce and economic development, but community development, rural health … educator prep, law enforcement, small business entrepreneurs, health professionals,” NMU President Brock Tessman told Public Radio 90’s Nicole Walton in a May 7 interview. “All of that comes through Northern.”
Northern State Normal School’s first Longyear Hall was destroyed by fire in 1905. Its replacement, pictured here in the 1926 Kawbawgam yearbook, opened less than a year later. (Photo courtesy of Northern Michigan University)
History
Peter White, a prominent Marquette banker and former state senator, had a similar vision when he began advocating for a normal school in the U.P. as early as 1875 during his time in the state Legislature.
By the late 19th century, the U.P. was attracting immigrants seeking work in the copper and iron mines and the logging industry. Their children needed to be educated, but some 75 percent of teachers had no formal training, according to “The Heart of Northern: A Brief History of Northern Michigan University” by NMU graduates Zoe Folsom and Chloe Vander Laan posted on Maamawi-Ozhigi/Together We Grow, a website dedicated to the relationship between the U.P. and NMU.
White and other notable Marquette residents lobbied for the establishment of a teacher training school, but bills drafted in 1895 and 1897 by Michigan’s state superintendent of public instruction were rejected by the state Legislature, according to “Northern Michigan University: The First 75 Years” by the late Miriam Hilton.
Undeterred, some of the city’s leading citizens hosted a dinner for more than 100 members of the Michigan Legislature at the Hotel Marquette on
Jan. 30, 1899, Hilton wrote. The delegation accepted the invitation to visit and see why Marquette was the best possible site for Michigan’s third normal school — a “recognized necessity for the public school system and a college for the common people,” as described by the Daily Mining Journal.
Throughout the next month, five members of the House Education Committee traveled throughout the U.P. to select a site for the school.
Episcopal Bishop G. Mott Williams summarized the case for Marquette in an original poem composed of 19
stanzas — including the lines at the beginning of this article.
On April 28, 1899, Northern State Normal School was chartered by Gov. Hazen Pingree, who had pressed for legislation that would benefit the common person. NMU celebrates its “birthday” as Sept. 19, the first day of classes.
In the 1910 yearbook known as “Olive and Gold,” the senior class published a brief summary of the school’s first decade — and advocated for continued support from the state Legislature.
Northern State Normal School was established to produce educators, especially for the U.P., equipped to teach a range of subjects. (Photo courtesy of Superior View Studios)
“The Northern State Normal School was established in September, 1899, by the State Board of Education,” the students wrote. “The first session of the school opened on September 19th, 1899, recitations being conducted in the City Hall. The temporary quarters were the second and third floors of the same. After the burning of the Marquette High School, the use of the third floor was given to them, and the Normal School occupied the second floor only.
“The Normal building, Longyear Hall, was completed in July, 1900, in ample time for the opening of the first summer session. In June, 1902, the new Peter White Science Hall was completed and dedicated. Life Certificates were issued to students in June, 1902.
“A new Library Building, began in May, 1904, was completed in September of that year. In December, 1905, Longyear Hall was destroyed by fire, and was replaced by a modern fireproof structure, which was completed in the fall of 1906.
“The faculty, in 1899, consisted of but six instructors; today it numbers thirty. The school has been materially strengthened by the liberal appropriations made at the last two sessions of the State Legislature. The enrollment has grown to such an extent, however, that we now very decidedly feel the need of the Main Building, which will include a larger Assembly Hall and a much needed Gymnasium. We hope the next legislature will recognize and satisfy these wants.”
As the school continued to grow and expand, it transitioned from Northern State Normal School to Northern State Teachers College in 1927. In 1942 the name was changed to Northern Michigan College of Education, and in 1955 it became Northern Michigan College.
NMU was granted university status with the adoption of a new state constitution in 1963. The state also vested governing authority in an eight-mem-
ber board of trustees, each of whom are appointed by the governor.
“Northern State Normal School had a big impact regionally because it allowed U.P. students to get trained as teachers close by without having to travel to one of the two other normal schools in the Lower Peninsula, and it provided U.P. schools with more qualified, certified teachers,” NMU historian and professor emeritus Russ Magnaghi, who compiled “A Sense of Time: The Encyclopedia of Northern Michigan University,” told the NMU News Bureau. “Over the years, as Northern transitioned to a university, it became an economic force and an arts and cultural center of the region, strengthening its connection to the community.”
Celebration NMU’s
connection to the community over the last 125 years will be fully celebrated as part of this
The Quill was a general interest and literary magazine published by Northern State Normal School from 1914 to 1918. (Photo courtesy of Northern Michigan University)
year’s Homecoming weekend scheduled for later this month. “We feel like that’s an appropriate time to really celebrate with our alumni, with our community,” Tessman told Public Radio 90.
Events will kick off on Friday, Sept. 20, with the Wildcat Welcome outside of the bookstore at the Northern Center. Academic departments will also host open houses where alumni can visit with faculty and staff.
The NMU Homecoming Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. that evening. It will start on Fair Avenue (in front of the Berry Events Center) and head toward Third Street. The parade will travel south on Third, turn east on Hewitt Avenue, then go north on Front Street, finishing at the Superior Dome.
Friday’s festivities will also feature the presentation of the Alumni Awards and NMU Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony. These events are not open to the public.
Friday night will wrap up with an outdoor concert outside the Superior Dome featuring country duo Maddie and Tae. The opening act will be Sami Brown, a musician and member of the NMU women’s soccer team. Gates will open at 6 p.m., and Brown will go on stage at 6:30 p.m.
On Saturday, Sept. 21, Tessman will speak at the Golden Wildcat Brunch, which celebrates alumni from the class of 1974 and prior on the 50th anniversary of their NMU graduation. At 11 a.m., Dan Truckey, director of the Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center, will lead a historical tour of campus.
Those interested in participating are asked to meet at the Carillon Towers outside of the Northern Center.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., there will be a tailgate party on the northeast side of the Superior Dome (in Lot 55 and the adjacent grassy area). The party is free and open to the public, and there will be food and refreshments, bounce houses for kids, yard games and music.
The 2024 NMU Homecoming football game versus Alma College will kick off at 1 p.m. inside the Superior Dome. For tickets, visit nmu. universitytickets.com.
The game will also mark the debut of NMU’s new alma mater, the official song played or sung at ceremonial events. Titled “Northern Pride,” the winning selection was written by Communications and Media Studies Professor Dwight Brady and was
lauded by the Alma Mater Work Group “for demonstrating NMU’s strong connection to the pristine local environment, Indigenous culture and people, and rigorous learning opportunities,” according to NMU’s website.
“This alma mater could be around for another 125 years or more, and the fact that it was written by one of our own, one of our fantastic faculty members, Dwight Brady, a Yooper, it’s really something to behold,” Tessman told Public Radio 90. An audio recording of Brady performing “Northern Pride” is available at nmu. edu/125/alma-mater.
Saturday night will conclude with alumni meet-ups organized by decade from 6 to 9 p.m.: 1970s and prior at the Holiday Inn; 1980s at the Wooden Nickel; 1990s at Breakers Roadhouse; and 2000s to present at DIGs.
Northern State Normal School’s curriculum included instruction in fine arts. (Photo courtesy of Superior View Studios)
Alumni and visitors will also have the opportunity to view a 125th exhibition at the Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center and two exhibits at the DeVos Art Museum: “Across Time and Place: Liz Ward and Robert Ziebell” and “Standing Still: Studio Portraits from the Upper Peninsula.”
Leadership
In addition to offering a high-quality education, NMU is committed to developing and cultivating future leaders.
Dave Bonsall grew up in Iron Mountain and Kingsford and first came to NMU as a student in 1969, where he joined his older sister. “NMU was the best option,” Bonsall said. “It was away, but close, and affordable.”
He pursued a double major in political science and history and entertained the idea of eventually attending law school. But as a freshman, Bonsall welcomed a leadership role as house president of Dakota House in Halverson Hall. He later became the resident adviser of Dakota House and resident director of Payne Hall and Gries Hall after his graduation. “I fell into liking student services,” he said.
But after Bonsall married his wife, Sandy, and they started a family, he took a sales job with the John Wiley Publishing Co., which produced college textbooks, and they relocated to
East Lansing — for a few months.
In November 1979, Bonsall was contacted by Karen Reese, then the associate dean of students at NMU, who invited him to apply to become the director of student activities. “It was my one chance to get back to the U.P. and to work at a job I knew I would love,” he said.
It was the beginning of a 35-year career at NMU where Bonsall created opportunities to develop and foster student leaders.
Bonsall and Reese teamed up in 1990 to co-write a grant application that would lead to the establishment of the Student Leader Fellowship Program, or SLFP, a nationally recognized two-year program that is committed to developing competent, ethical and community-centered leaders.
This fall, the program will welcome its 35th cohort, each of which is identified by a signature block color. (The first group is known as the Red Blocks.) More than 900 students have participated in the SLFP since its inception.
“Students can get so much more out of their college experience outside of their academic program,” Bonsall said. “On the other side, it’s about how you grow as a person. It’s a rewarding thing as you see them grow and develop.”
Bonsall said Tessman has attended two of the SLFP’s fall retreats and “sees the value” of the program. Tessman told Public Radio 90 that the SLFP “highlights that connection between our students and the community,” noting some of the organizations that are affected through the program’s community service internships, including the Women’s Center, the Noquemanon Trail Network and
Bay Cliff Health Camp, among many others.
“Hundreds of thousands of hours over the last few decades, our students out in the community making a difference,” Tessman said. “It’s humbling. … It’s just really an inspiring part of being here at Northern.”
Bonsall stepped away from the SLFP in 2006 to develop the Superior Edge program, which combines inand out-of-the-classroom experiences to provide students with an “edge” in their careers or graduate work. He continues to serve as an SLFP mentor and has attended every fall retreat, even after retiring from NMU in 2013. “What’s made it successful is the students,” Bonsall said. “It’s been the highlight of my career.”
The Student Leader Fellowship Program and Superior Edge are just two of the offerings of NMU’s Center for Student Enrichment, which is currently directed by Rachel Harris.
Pride
Five years after NMU’s founding, in October 1904, the school fielded its first football team known as, appropriately, the Teachers. Over the next 25 years, the school’s athletic teams were known by other names, including the Upstaters, the Normalites, the Northernites and the Northerners, according to a 2016 article in The North Wind student newspaper by Noah Hausmann, who cited Magnaghi’s “A Sense of Time.”
In a 1937 letter, basketball coach C.B. Hedgcock wrote of his reasoning for referring to his defenders as “Cats,” according to a September 1998 issue of The North Wind: “In man-to-man you have to be quicker, because the cubs are the natural off-
Northern State Normal School fielded a baseball team in its early years. (Photo courtesy of Northern Michigan University)
spring of wildcats, bobcats, any kind of cat when they’re younger; the manto-man unit will be known as a Cub, while members of the older, more methodical zone defense group will be known as the Cats … the Wildcats.”
Hausmann writes that the character of Wildcat Willy was created by the Chi Sigma Nu fraternity in the 1960s and was present at football and basketball games throughout the 1970s, though he didn’t become a formalized character until the mid-1980s.
In October 1970, NMU purchased a live mascot, a 38-pound female bobcat named Bobby who lived in a cage attached to the power plant behind Spooner Hall, according to Hausmann. Bobby was eventually returned to its owners in Toronto about a year later when it escaped and was captured near the Lower Harbor.
Notable Wildcat athletes over the years include Olympic speed skaters Shani Davis and Cathy Turner; former University of Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr; Olympic snowboarding gold medalist Nick Baumgartner; 21 hockey players who made it to the NHL, led by Dallas Drake with 1,009 games and a Stanley Cup championship; and lifelong friends and NMU roommates Tom Izzo and Steve Mariucci, former head coach of the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions.
Izzo, the men’s basketball coach at Michigan State University, will bring his Spartans to NMU for the first time in an exhibition game on Oct. 13 in the Superior Dome. “To say I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my Michigan State team to play at North-
ern Michigan, my alma mater, would be a pretty big understatement,” Izzo said. “I think this will mean a great deal to people, not only in East Lansing but especially for the great people in Marquette and the Upper Peninsula.”
The event will also mark the first collegiate basketball game to take place at the dome, which has been recognized by the “Guinness Book of World Records” as the largest free-standing wooden dome in the world.
NMU is also a National Training Site that currently provides educational and training opportunities to resident athletes in Greco-Roman wrestling. In 1985, NMU became the third Olympic Training Center in the United States, behind Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Lake Placid, New York; in 1989, the United States Olympic Committee changed the center’s designation to the country’s only Olympic Education Center.
The designation was changed once again to Olympic Training Site in 2014. In 2020 the center was given
the title National Training Site to reflect its partnership with USA Wrestling and USA Weightlifting.
The site has also hosted national and international events, such as the short track speed skating World Cup in 2003 and the 2006 Olympic Trials. In 2010, it hosted the USA Weightlifting National Collegiate Championships.
Legacy
NMU
junior William DeRuyver, a 2022 graduate of downstate Fowlerville High School, was excited to get back to campus this fall. He was starting a new job and was eager to meet with his adviser to plan his final two full semesters on site; he will begin student teaching in the fall of 2025.
DeRuyver is the third generation in his family to pursue a teaching degree at NMU after his mother and grandmother, who are both graduates of Ishpeming High School. It was one of the reasons he chose to study there. “Marquette, Ishpeming, Negaunee are like my second home,” DeRuyver
Northern State Normal School’s early facilities included an assembly hall. (Photo courtesy of Superior View Studios)
said. “I’ve spent every summer there, and I knew the area.”
DeRuyver is majoring in secondary education and plans to teach sixth grade social studies. He was looking forward to starting his teaching methods phase and was most excited for EC 350: Methods and Materials in Teaching Social Studies Education.
In one of his previous classes, he had the opportunity to spend time at Bothwell Middle School in Marquette one day a week for six weeks. “It gave me a taste of what student teaching will be like,” he said. “That was pretty dope.”
But DeRuyver has also embraced other opportunities NMU has to offer, including getting an on-campus job and serving on the leadership team of Cru, an interdenominational campus ministry group, where he leads Bible studies. “I like the historical aspect, the biblical history,” DeRuyver said. “It’s giving me more teaching experience.”
He also appreciates the outdoor recreation activities NMU can provide, including a hiking class, and how he can use what he learns in his future career. “Once I leave NMU, I’ll be very qualified to teach, but I’ll also be enriched in nature,” DeRuyver said. “I want to incorporate more outdoors in my life, and there’s stuff on top of that to incorporate in my classroom.”
While NMU continues its 125-year
tradition of providing high-quality training for future educators, it also recognizes the need to adapt and respond to what’s happening in the 21st century.
Riley Perry, a 2021 graduate of Ishpeming High School and first-generation college student, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in controlled environment agriculture, or CEA, a career field NMU describes as “rapidly expanding.” NMU notes that the program “offers an opportunity to revolutionize the way we grow food, combining cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to maximize crop yield and minimize environmental impact.”
“I’ve always loved gardening but never knew I could pursue a career,” Perry said. “After taking an indoor agriculture class, it was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
The program is hands-on, and students have access to state-of-the-art vertical farming systems and hydroponic setups. The curriculum also emphasizes sustainability and resource management.
“This is an example of how Northern is becoming more sustainable,” Perry said, explaining that some of the food grown in the program’s “Freight Farm” is used in NMU’s Dining Services locations.
Perry said classes she took have introduced her to the important concepts of food deserts and food sovereignty, and how alternative types of growing systems can provide food to areas that are negatively impacted by soil conditions or climate change. She will eventually have the opportunity to build her own hydroponic system and intends to pursue a career as a cultivation manager.
Programs such as CEA are pushing
students to innovate to solve some of the most pressing issues that affect communities.
‘Become the innovator’
During the 2024 spring commencement, NMU welcomed speaker Milton Chen, who was born in Negaunee during the time his father was working as an engineer at Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.
Chen, who is described as an educational innovator, previously served as director of research at Sesame Workshop in New York. He is senior fellow and executive director emeritus at the George Lucas Educational Foundation and addressed the 913 graduates on May 4 — what some affectionately refer to as Star Wars Day. (“May the Fourth be with you.”)
He encouraged the graduates to “become the innovator” of their own lives, building upon the foundation that has served NMU students for the past 125 years.
“Dear Wildcats, on this May 4, I believe the force is strong in you,” Chen said. “Armed with your Northern Michigan degree, you now have the lightsaber of learning. Your education is more powerful than any weapon. Use it for good, to build better communities and a healthier planet. The world needs your energies, your talents, your passions now more than ever. You are the change that we have been waiting for.”
MM
Erin Elliott Bryan grew up in Ishpeming and earned her bachelor of science degree in English/writing from NMU in 2002. She is also a graduate of NMU’s Student Leader Fellowship Program. She is a freelance writer and an MM calendar editor.
Today, Northern Michigan University educates more than 7,000 students on a 360acre campus in the heart of Marquette. (Photo courtesy of NMU)
sporting life
Negaunee’s Jacobson inducted into football coaches Hall of Fame Carrying on the tradition
By Jim LaJoie
Entering his 25th season as the varsity head football coach at Negaunee High School, Paul Jacobson realizes he has spent nearly half of his life roaming the sidelines for his alma mater.
Little did he know when he accepted the coaching position — taking over for longtime legendary coach Dick Koski — that he would be in the same position a quarter of a century later. Yet, he is, and despite the multiple demands that come with this role, he still has the fire in his belly and the desire to continue.
“I tell a story quite a bit. In my first year [2000], we started the season 0 and 4,” Jacobson said as a sheepish grin stretched across his face. “My mom put a For Sale sign in my front yard. Looking back, I never thought I’d be here this long and be where I am today.”
Jacobson — known by many in the community affectionately as “Jake” — recalls the interview process and the expectations that came with being the head coach of the Miners.
“I was a young guy with big shoes to fill, and I had to worry about winning with really good teams around me. Growing up, I watched Coach [Mike] Mileski, Coach [John] Croze, Coach [Dan] Flynn,” Jacobson said of the former Marquette, Ishpeming and Escanaba varsity coaches. “When I was hired, one of the first questions I got was, ‘How are you going to beat Iron Mountain and Coach [Tom] Wender?’ It really makes you work harder. … You’re going against the Jeff Olsons, Scott Boddys and Robin Marttilas [at Ishpeming, Calumet and Iron Mountain]. There are great, blue-collar communities in the U.P. which take great pride in football and produce tough kids.”
Today, Jacobson stands in a distinguished category in prep state football circles. In December, he was notified that he was being inducted this summer into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. An unexpected honor came at a
very unexpected time.
Jacobson was in a concession line at the Chiefs-Packers game in Green Bay when he received a call from Jack Roberts, former executive director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association.
“I had to get out of line, lost my place and told Jack to hold on,” he said. “He told me I was being inducted. I guess I didn’t think a lot about it. For me, it’s never been about personal recognition. I’m part of something that is special. I didn’t even tell my wife for a long time. She actually got mad at me when she saw the open let-
ter on the kitchen counter. I didn’t tell my kids until spring break. I told them it wasn’t a big deal and if they want to come, great. If not, I won’t be hurt because they have a lot going on.”
Over the past few months, though, he’s slowly come to realize the importance of this recognition. He was officially inducted in June.
“When I think of the Hall of Fame, I think of a guy like Dick Koski. They are legendary in my mind. … I never put myself in that category,” he said. “The most meaningful part of this? It has been connecting with former players, coaches, friends and former team-
mates. My [Central Michigan] Chippewa teammates are like brothers, and we stay in contact. Hearing from these guys means the most to me. It means more than the actual award itself.”
There’s little wonder Jacobson earned Hall of Fame induction. In his 24-year career at Negaunee, he has amassed a 185-75 win-loss record; reached the state playoffs 20 times; and owns a 28-19 record in MHSAA postseason play. His overall winning percentage is .712. He led the team to a state runner-up finish in 2022.
When asked his reaction upon learning Jacobson was being induct-
Paul Jacobson is in his 25th season as the head football coach at Negaunee, his alma mater. (Photo by Tom Buchkoe)
ed into the state hall, former Ishpeming varsity football coach Jeff Olson quickly said, “It’s about time.”
“He’s been coaching a long time, has a lot of wins and conference championships, along with a state championship,” said Olson, who was inducted into the same Hall of Fame in 2016. “It was just a matter of time for him.”
Jacobson’s crowning achievement was guiding the Miners to a Division 6 state championship in 2002 with a 28-20 overtime victory over Hopkins. It was just his third season on the job.
“Obviously,” he said, “there were big expectations that first year taking over for Coach Koski — the Hall of Fame coach he was and the tradition he established. I had a number of guys on the staff at that time who played for him.
“Looking back, I was young and dumb and really didn’t think that much about it. I came in and probably should have been a lot more nervous than I was, but I just enjoyed it. I had good people around me. The kids were just fantastic. We had kids who wanted to work hard and still do … so that is a huge factor.”
Bringing a state championship home across the Mighty Mac and being greeted by hundreds of passionate, die-hard Maize and Blue fans made all of the sacrifices and hard work worth it.
“The community does such a tremendous job backing the school and the district,” said Jacobson, who was a star offensive lineman at Central Michigan University. “Whether it’s athletics, academics, the band concerts … this community stands behind its school 100 percent. Being born and raised in this town really
“
IN FOOTBALL, THERE ARE UPS AND DOWNS, TEARS OF JOY, TEARS OF SORROW. YOU FEEL GOOD ABOUT ETCHING OUT YOUR LITTLE PART OF HISTORY.
makes you appreciate it. The community support brings you a great sense of pride.”
Olson, who guided the Ishpeming Hematites to state championships in 2012, 2013 and 2015, said facing a Jacobson-coached team was always a daunting challenge. “No. 1,” Olson said, “you don’t get anything for free. He runs a great program, and his of-
Paul Jacobson was inducted this summer into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. (Photo by Tom Buchkoe)
fensive and defensive schemes are solid. His kids are always in the right area and are extremely prepared physically. And, you have fundamentally sound kids. As an opposing coach, you better have your ducks in a row [facing the Miners].”
Winning the state title was not only a victory for the football team but for the entire community, Jacobson said. “You’re part of something special, part of something a lot bigger than
me,” he said. “In football, there are ups and downs, tears of joy, tears of sorrow. You feel good about etching out your little part of history. And for Coach Koski? He put 32 years of his heart and soul into this program. So that was special.”
Don Barr was a star running back on the 2002 state championship team. When asked what one word best describes Jacobson, he didn’t hesitate to answer: “Compassionate. Most peo-
ple would be surprised to know this. There is this kind of belief that [all coaches] are hard and in your face. That’s not who he is.
“He’s a mentor and teacher first who just happens to coach football. More than anything, he’s about raising young men to be good members of the community. He treats everyone as individuals first.”
In coaching football, Jacobson and his staff of assistants strive for much
The Negaunee Miners have been known as a fundamentally sound team throughout the tenure of head coach Paul Jacobson and that of his predecessor, Dick Koski, a fellow member of the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. (Photo by Tom Buchkoe)
more than accumulating wins. Rather, it’s about putting each young man in a position to excel in life after high school. “What is great about high school football, and the reason I chose to coach at this level, is that you’re given a deck of cards each fall to work with,” he said. “You can’t go out and recruit kids. You get what you get, and the hardest part is putting the pieces of the puzzle together.
“Football is hard. There is no question about it. Life is hard, and you’re dealt with adversity. Last year, we had 28 kids on the team and everyone had a background, a story in their household, social-economic issues. In that [locker] room, in the little time we have with them, this is our family. You go through tough things together. … You go through the emotions. It’s not about the wins and losses. There is so much to learn from athletics in general. You hopefully prepare these guys for life after football and work on common goals.”
So, after an incredibly successful coaching career, what does the future hold for Jacobson, who also serves as Negaunee’s director of athletics? There is talk in the community that this could be his last season at the helm. However, he’s not entirely
ready to address walking away from the game.
“We’re taking it season-by-season. … I still have the energy to do it,” he said. “I haven’t had a fall off since the seventh grade. A couple of years ago, I was getting tired and didn’t have the energy. I talked to [former assistant coach] Mark Marana about it. It gets tough. You have two-a-day practices, and it’s five hours a day. And the season is a grind. It wears on you.
“Then,” he added, “I had a special group and they kind of re-energized me. We have great kids coming up. I’m enjoying myself and having a good time.”
And spending invaluable time with his former players during summer class reunions certainly plays a role in putting a jump in his step.
“I get together with kids who come back for 10-, 20- and 25-year class reunions. You hear the stories, the little things that happened in the locker room, the plays in different games,” he said. “I’ve been blessed. We’ve had tremendous players and coaches. And when you have a tremendous community, it’s a recipe for success. I just happen to be the person who has to answer to the media after a game.”
What stands out to Jacobson in his coaching career? “There have been two huge highlights,” he said. “First, I had the opportunity to coach my son. I really enjoyed that. Another is being
able to coach with my brother [Kevin, the team’s offensive coordinator] for all of these years. We both have a passion for football, and it’s good to be together on a Saturday afternoon, do some bird hunting, take a sauna and then watch some football.”
When he finally hangs up that Miner football cap and relinquishes his head coaching duties, Jacobson strongly believes the storied football tradition in Negaunee will continue to thrive.
“You look at the history of Negaunee Miner football. It began in 1894,” he said. “You think of all of the coaches, from back in the day to today. Negaunee football has always been a measuring stick. I would like to think that I was part of that and hand it off to the next person and carry on the tradition.
“Coach Koski started a great thing in 1968 when they started putting up the team pictures each year on the wall. You’re part of history and that tradition. I would like to think we did a pretty good job of carrying on the tradition that’s been established here and pass it on to the next person.”
MM
Jim LaJoie was a newspaper sports writer 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.
Paul Jacobson’s Negaunee Miners won the Division 6 state championship in 2002, his third season as head coach. (Photo by Tom Buchkoe)
back then
Tiny town, big history
Sidnaw was central to the U.P.’s role in the CCC and World War II
Editor’s note: This story is Larry Chabot’s 200th for Marquette Monthly. Read a profile of the writer on page 47 of this issue.
By Larry Chabot
Take a ride through little Sidnaw in southern Houghton County, for many years the busiest hamlet of its size in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, when it housed thousands of temporary visitors.
The logger Thomas Nester did a lot of good in his short, busy life, and founding Sidnaw was one of his best accomplishments. He platted the town in 1889, a year before his death at age 56 while strolling on a dock in Baraga.
Sidnaw was an early railroad town at the intersection of two major lines as well as a center for lumbering and farming. One of the trains was bound for Ontonagon but stopped overnight in Sidnaw before enduring a four-hour crawl over the 47-mile route, according to michiganrailroads.com.
The village boasted large general stores and hotels. And that’s just for starters. When the hamlet burned down in 1894, a flood of carpenters arrived from L’Anse to rebuild the place, but it burned again more than once.
In 1903, the Diamond Match Co., logging in the area, unloaded a trainload of huge work horses weighing 1,500 pounds and up. Their 36 horses weighed 30 total tons.
By 1920, a township supervisor boasted that “greater Sidnaw consisted of 134 people and 19 bird dogs.” Then along came Henry Ford, who centered his lumber industry near Sidnaw. He built a modern lumber camp “the likes of which no sober lumberjack had ever dreamed,” Ford wrote. The bunkhouses were heated and lighted, and alcohol and tobacco were forbidden. According to landingaday.wordpress.com, critics called Ford’s lumberjacks “lumber ladies,” but Ford was so proud of his camps that he showed them to inventor Thomas Edison and tire maker Harvey Firestone on their 1923 camping trip across the U.P.
No Depression here
Following the 1929 stock market crash, the Great Depression slowly crippled world economies. By 1933, unemployment in the U.P. was 45%, with some counties much higher than that. Under President Frank-
lin Roosevelt’s New Deal, Congress authorized a Civilian Conservation Corps to use unemployed young men to improve the nation’s forests, lakes and rivers, as well as the youth themselves. When the first U.P. camps opened in May 1933, candidates stood in line for hours to sign up.
The year 1935 saw 39 new camps in the U.P., including a Sidnaw group a mile west of town. The first enrollees arrived in July from temporary quarters in Kenton. By October, tents had been replaced by barracks, whose construction occupied every carpenter within miles. Other buildings were a cookhouse, bathhouse, offices, repair shop and an infirmary serving the central U.P.
Up to 200 or more young men were on site at any given time, with an additional 45 staffers from the Army (which operated the camps) and the Forest Service (which ran the work projects). Most early enrollees were
from downstate cities; they had never chopped a tree or changed a tire, and some couldn’t tell a horse from a cow.
The personnel at Camp Sidnaw built forest roads, planted trees, added campsites, cut firewood, ran deer surveys and improved lakes and streams. Sidnaw’s WUED radio station handled traffic between area camps and district headquarters at Sault Ste. Marie. Like most places, Sidnaw published a newsletter.
Three times in its seven years, Sidnaw was voted “most handsome camp.” Their winter and summer track meets and basketball team drew competitors from nearby camps. During deer season, campers wore red uniforms and blew horns to warn hunters of their presence, yet a downstate hunter shot at a truckload of CCC boys near Sidnaw, wounding two of them. The hunter got 60 days in jail despite his plea that he mistook the truck for a deer.
The CCC built 33 U.P. landing strips, Sidnaw’s among them, to provide emergency fields for the increas-
ing airplane traffic. The local strip closed after a fatal crash in 2003 but has since been reopened by a private group.
Before and after Camp Sidnaw closed in mid-1942, many enrollees went into World War II service, where they established a reputation as excellent soldiers. They had become taller, stronger, heavier, healthier, more literate, more confident and able to work in a group.
For almost all campers, CCC life was the best thing that ever happened to them. With an average complement of 200 campers, an average enlistment of nine months, and 45 rotating staff, Sidnaw had a total population during its existence of at least 2,000.
The camps — initially feared but later accepted as an economic force — were torn down or donated for other uses. Sidnaw and a few others, though, had more exciting lives ahead.
Here comes the Army
Seven newly closed CCC camps in the U.P. were reconditioned to host
30,000 Army troops sent north to acclimate them to the winter conditions they would find in Europe. For each of two winters starting in late 1942, 15,000 men from Camp McCoy in Wisconsin wintered at Sidnaw and six other sites. The men lived in the woods in temperatures as low as 40 degrees below zero and thawed out in bars and restaurants — except for the frostbite victims hauled back to Camp McCoy by train each day. An estimated 2,000 men per winter were in the Sidnaw area.
Sidnaw mourned two of its sons who died in the war. Private First Class Samuel Bennett was killed in the Philippines in April 1945, and Navy pilot William Coombs died in a plane crash off the East Coast in May 1945. He was a Pacific combat veteran who had four brothers in uniform.
And here’s the enemy
As war raged across Europe in 1944, there was little room there to house captured enemy troops because Germany still controlled
much of the continent. So more than 350,000 captives were shipped to America, 1,265 of whom quartered in five abandoned CCC camps in the U.P. like Sidnaw, which opened in February 1944, not long after the winter soldiers had moved out. All five camps were near M-28 and a railroad.
Sidnaw’s contingent of 254 prisoners and 45 staff arrived by train from Kansas City, Missouri, marching four abreast to the camp, according to the Ontonagon Herald, which reported that “all appeared in a hilarious mood” carrying packages, bundles and musical instruments.
The POWs worked in the woods and on farms to replace U.S. workers in military service. John Pepin in his POW documentary, “The Enemy in Our Midst,” said Sidnaw POWs formed a 12-piece orchestra and a 24-man chorus, and a few unofficial brewers and distillers made moonshine liquor under the barracks. The prisoners enjoyed more food in one day than they had in a week in the war zone.
Sidnaw, which was platted by Thomas Nester in 1889, boasted large general stores, hotels and this public school building. (Photo courtesy of Superior View Studios)
Author Jacob Pieti noted that Sidnaw’s remote location led to close relations between guards and prisoners. Some guards would nap while the POWs worked. When asked where his rifle was, one guard replied, “They [the POWs] aren’t going anywhere.”
Trouble arose when officials refused to sponsor a farewell meal for POWs leaving early. A protest resulted in inmates breaking tools and puncturing tires, but the strike fizzled after a forced 12-mile march back to camp. Then the chief agitators were transferred to tougher camps.
Two other men also left early. In May 1944, a pair of newly arrived POWs working near Sidnaw vanished before the nightly roll call. When nabbed 8 miles away in Kenton, they claimed they were “just going for a walk.” Six other U.P. escapees were also caught because, really, there was no place for them to go.
(And what a surprise! Mrs. Hilda Hampe of New York City showed up in Sidnaw asking to see her brother, a German POW she hadn’t seen since migrating to the U.S. in 1923.)
The Sidnaw camp closed on April 8, 1946, and prisoners returned to Germany. Several ex-POWs wrote to camp officials thanking them for the humane treatment, and some local residents became pen pals with Germans, a few of whom visited Sidnaw after the war.
A railroad town
Sidnaw had intersecting tracks of two major railroads: the Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic (Soo Line) and Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific (the Milwaukee Road).
Among a slew of celebrities who came through were U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft in railroad coaches heading to Ironwood and beyond. And on
Oct. 3, 1935, a fancy 12-cylinder Lincoln automobile purred through carrying Amelia Earhart, the most famous woman aviator in the world, driving herself to Duluth.
Abbott and Costello, then the most popular comedians in the world, peered out train windows in 1942, as did Soo Line railroad engineer John Milne, hundreds of times; he was the grandfather of famed entertainer Judy Garland. After 25 years in the U.P., he moved his family of 10 — including Judy’s mother, Ethel Milne — through Sidnaw to his new post in Wisconsin.
Add to these the thousands of CCC people, winter maneuver troops, lumberjacks, railroaders and POWs, and you have a really popular town.
Wouldn’t you know: Sidnaw was referenced in a Hollywood movie. The 2000 film “Reindeer Games” has as its main character ex-convict Rudy Duncan, a resident of Sidnaw (Sidnaw is in Duncan Township), who is forced to help rob a U.P. casino or be killed.
Sidnaw is quieter now. Resident Joan Thompson said the Sidnaw depot is long gone, she hasn’t seen a regular train pass through in years, and the Milwaukee Road tracks to Ontonagon were torn up.
The thousands of visitors are only a memory, but they helped make the little town one of the U.P.’s most important and exciting places. One wonders if those passing through have any idea how critical Sidnaw was to the economy and the war effort. MM
Ontonagon native Larry Chabot has passed through Sidnaw countless times on school buses, cars, trucks and two different railroads, so he considers himself an honorary resident. He has written about the area in his books detailing the U.P.’s place in CCC and World War II history.
Sidnaw stood at the intersection of two major rail lines that provided guests for the Northern Hotel. (Photo courtesy of Superior View Studios)
locals
Chronicler of the north Larry Chabot’s journey to 200 articles in Marquette Monthly
By Jennifer Champagne
Larry Chabot has spent a lifetime chronicling the history and vibrant stories of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. His 200th article for Marquette Monthly is more than just a milestone; it’s a testament to his unwavering dedication, insatiable curiosity and deep-rooted passion for preserving the tales of this rugged region. Chabot’s work captures the essence of the U.P., bringing to life the people, places and events that define its unique character.
Chabot’s journey to becoming a prolific historical writer was anything but linear. His path included a stint in Washington, D.C., and an early career in public relations at the White Pine Copper Mine. Each step added valuable experiences that would later enrich his writing.
Chabot’s love for history was cultivated early in his hometown of Ontonagon in the western Upper Peninsula. The area’s rich historical tapestry left a lasting impression on him, fueling a passion that would shape his future career. “The stories of the past were all around me,” he said. “From the tales of the miners to the legacy of the lumber industry, history wasn’t just something you read about — it was lived every day.”
At 18, Chabot ventured from the familiarity of Ontonagon to the bustling streets of Washington, D.C., where he attended Georgetown University. The move was transformative, thrusting him from small-town life into the heart of the nation’s capital. “It was a world away from what I knew,” he said. “My mother gave me $100 to put in my wallet, and I was off. I flew from Milwaukee to Washington for just $13. Nobody believes me when I tell them that.”
In Washington, Chabot took a job as an elevator operator on Capitol Hill, a position that quickly broadened his perspective. “Every time the door opened, another famous person would step in. Here I was, a kid from a tiny town in the Upper Peninsula, rubbing shoulders with World War II heroes and Congressmen who had been in office for years,” he said. “I grew up
in a hurry. In fact, when I was 19, I was running a Congressman’s office all by myself because everyone else had quit.”
Chabot’s responsibilities expanded further when he joined the Republican National Committee, where he spent six years. “That was really a blast,” he said. “I got to go to a National Convention, an inaugural ball and even had the chance to meet Eisenhower and Nixon a few times.” By the time
he returned to Michigan at age 27, he had been shaped by his encounters with history and the people who made it, laying the foundation for his future contributions to documenting the rich history of the U.P.
Chabot joined the public relations department at the White Pine Copper Mine. It was there that his interest in documenting history first took root. The mine, just nine years old at the time, had a wealth of untold stories.
“There were construction photographs and brief articles that came across my desk,” Chabot said. “I realized that if someone didn’t start documenting the history of this place, it would be lost.”
His early work at the mine’s corporate magazine eventually led him to a broader writing career focused on the Upper Peninsula’s history. Chabot’s first major work, “The U.P. Goes to War,” was born out of the realization that no one had documented the role of the Upper Peninsula in World War II. “How could such a monumental event, which involved so many people from the region, go undocumented?” he wondered. The result was a comprehensive account highlighting the contributions and sacrifices of Upper Michigan’s residents during the war.
Following the success of his first book, Chabot turned his attention to another overlooked chapter of history: the Civilian Conservation Corps, or CCC. His second book, “Saving Our Sons,” explored how the CCC provided jobs and training to thousands of young men during the Great Depression, including many from the Upper Peninsula.
While Chabot’s books established him as a respected historian, his work with Marquette Monthly has given him the opportunity to cover a wide range of subjects. Over the years, he has penned 200 articles for the publication, each a deep dive into the people, places and events that have shaped the Upper Peninsula. Chabot’s articles are characterized by meticulous research and a knack for storytelling. His process is straightforward yet effective: He begins by gathering as much information as possible, often spending hours in libraries, museums and historical societies. Once he has a wealth of material, he starts writing, crafting narratives that are both engaging and informative.
“I write it down as plainly as possible at first,” Chabot said. “Then I go back and liven it up, making sure the story is not just informative but also enjoyable to read.”
This approach has won him a loyal following among readers, many of whom appreciate the depth and breadth of his work. His articles of-
Illustration of Larry Chabot by Mike McKinney
ten uncover little-known aspects of Upper Peninsula history, bringing to light stories that might otherwise have been forgotten.
Chabot’s work is also a family affair. His brother-in-law, Mike McKinney, who is married to Chabot’s wife’s sister, illustrates many of his articles for Marquette Monthly. McKinney was initially hesitant to take on the role of illustrator but eventually agreed. “I couldn’t say no when Larry asked me,” McKinney said. “I read his articles a couple of times, try to visualize what image might draw someone’s attention and then I go from there. He gives me complete freedom to do what I choose.”
The collaboration between Chabot and McKinney has been successful, adding a visual dimension to Chabot’s stories that enhances their impact. “Larry’s stories are so informative and interesting,” McKinney said. “It’s amazing how much research he does. Some of his historical facts seem too unbelievable to be true, but they always check out.”
This dedication to uncovering and preserving stories is something Chabot also passed down to his son, Chris. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in 1979, Chris recalls how his father encouraged him to undertake a project documenting the history of White Pine. “Dad gave me a list of people to interview, from the young to the old,” Chris said. “He told me to be honest and faithful to their words, and that advice has stuck with me.”
Larry, for his part, remembers the moment as an opportunity to teach Chris the value of thorough research and genuine storytelling. “I handed him a book by Studs Terkel and suggested he could do something similar for White Pine,” Larry said. Chris, initially unsure, soon embraced the task, and the two spent hours sorting through piles of note cards filled with interview responses. “I told him to organize the cards chronologically and start writing, but to always be honest and faithful to their words,” Larry said.
Chris quickly discovered that getting people to open up was often a challenge, but one he was determined to overcome. He recalled a particularly difficult interview with a woman who had grown up in White Pine during World War I. “So many locals would tell me they didn’t want to be interviewed because they never did anything interesting,” Chris said. “I would bug them anyway and finally get a sit-down. This woman was tough, though. She answered ‘I don’t know’ to nearly a dozen questions. When I asked her what she did for
“
NEVER DAMPEN YOUR CURIOSITY. FOLLOW EVERY LEAD.
amusement, she replied, ‘I don’t ever remember being amused.’ But I kept going, and by question 42, I finally hit something. I asked if she remembered the first radio in White Pine, and she suddenly lit up. ‘Yes, it was ours. My dad brought one home, and everyone came over to gather around and listen to it.’ It took 42 questions to get an interview.”
The project not only deepened Chris’s appreciation for history but also marked an important milestone in his own writing journey, culminating in a book that sold several hundred copies. A hallmark of the work of both father and son is their shared ability to conduct interviews that uncover the heart of a story.
Larry Chabot’s interview technique is straightforward: He listens. This simple but powerful approach has allowed him to capture the voices of countless individuals whose stories might otherwise have been lost to time.
In one particularly memorable interview, Chabot recounted his experience with a veteran at a veterans home. The man had just arrived at the home and was sitting in a wheelchair, visibly frustrated. He was so upset that he pulled out and discarded a safety buzzer meant to alert staff if he fell forward. Initially resistant to being interviewed, the veteran was finally drawn into conversation when Chabot mentioned John Dillinger, a name that sparked the veteran’s memory.
The veteran then recounted an incredible encounter from his childhood when he crossed paths with the infamous gangster. “He told me the whole story,” Chabot said. The man, only 9 years old at the time, was walking down a country road in Wetmore, Michigan, when a car approached him. John Dillinger was in it, along
with his brother and a drunk companion, John Hamilton. Hamilton began to chase the boy into the woods, but the young boy managed to outrun him. The boy then rushed to a nearby store to alert the shopkeeper, who called the state police. By the time the authorities arrived, Dillinger had already fled, eventually making his way to Chicago, where he would later meet his end.
Chabot’s patient listening and genuine interest allowed the veteran to open up and share a story that might otherwise have gone untold.
Chabot’s empathetic approach extended beyond this encounter. In another interview, he met with a veteran who was so traumatized that he lay curled up in a fetal position, unable to speak. Chabot, undeterred, gently asked the man if he was a veteran, to which the man nodded. Chabot then pointed to various locations, asking if the veteran had served in Europe. The man continued to nod. Through a series of careful questions, Chabot was able to communicate with the veteran, who eventually revealed that he had served as a tanker in Gen. George S. Patton’s division. The man mimed the motion of tank treads moving, illustrating his role without saying a word.
Chabot’s influence garners the respect and admiration of many across the Upper Peninsula. Jim Kippola, a retired Marquette County manager and chairman of the planning committee for Humboldt Township, has long been a supporter of Chabot’s work. “Larry has this unique ability to take history and make it interesting, even for those who might not think they care about it,” Kippola said. “His writing has a way of grabbing you with its cadence and rhythm. He doesn’t beat around the bush — he dives right into the heart of the story, making history come alive in a way that few can.” Kippola’s appreciation for Chabot’s work underscores the broader impact Chabot has had in the community, turning historical narratives into compelling stories that resonate with readers of all ages.
Chabot’s work at Sawyer International Airport, now the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, wasn’t just about documenting operations; it was about capturing the essence of the airport’s role in the community. Duane DuRay, the director of operations at Sawyer, reflects on Chabot’s significant contributions, particularly through the newsletters he meticulously crafted.
“Larry was genuinely a quality historian for the airport,” DuRay said. “He had the pulse of the airport be-
cause he tracked everything so closely. I could give a board update after reading Larry’s newsletters because he hit it all.” Chabot’s newsletters went beyond the surface, delving into the history of the airport and showcasing its milestones in a way that connected with those who read them.
Working with Chabot, DuRay appreciated the depth of knowledge and the commitment Chabot brought to the task. “We gave Larry an open slate,” DuRay said. “He was strong-willed when it came to what he wrote about, and that was one of the beauties of Larry. He didn’t just focus on the present; he brought out the history and the stories that might have been forgotten, making them relevant again.”
Joe Zyble, who collaborated with Chabot during their time at The U.P. Catholic and Marquette Monthly, highlighted the unique depth Chabot brings to his writing. “Larry doesn’t just report on history; he immerses himself in it,” Zyble said. “When Larry wrote about the mine closure in White Pine, he didn’t just cover the event; he explored the profound impact on the community, especially how local churches stepped in to support those affected. His ability to weave personal stories into broader historical narratives is what sets his work apart.”
Despite his success, Chabot has faced his share of challenges. Writer’s block is a familiar foe, one that Chabot confronts by staying curious and persistent. “Blocks are inevitable,” Chabot said. “Sometimes you have a subject but don’t know how to pursue it. I toy with it, move things around, and eventually it comes together. But there have been times when I’ve had to drop an idea because it just wouldn’t work.”
Chabot’s advice to aspiring writers and historians is simple but profound: “Never dampen your curiosity. Be curious about everything and follow every lead.”
As he celebrates his 200th article, Chabot shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to write, driven by the same passion for history that has fueled his career for decades. “My work is about preserving the stories of this region,” Chabot said. “There’s so much history here, and I want to make sure it’s not forgotten.”
MM
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.
in the outdoors
Basking in the sun Animals depend on energy from the sun to meet their daily needs
Story and photos by Scot Stewart
There’s nothing like some time on the beach under the sun, especially after a quick dunk in Lake Superior on a cold-water day. On those days when the wind is blowing out and the water in the harbors is back under 60 degrees Fahrenheit, a quick dip rapidly drops the temperature of skin — and sun basking is a way to warm up in a hurry.
The whole process is made possible by energy from the sun, both visible light and invisible ultraviolet light energy. Many animals depend heavily on the energy from the sun just to live their day-to-day lives, especially here in the Upper Peninsula.
Insects, amphibians, reptiles and fish are all ectothermic animals — they used to be called cold-blooded. They depend on the warmth of the air and water in their surroundings to adjust their temperatures and generate the energy they need to metabolize nutrients in their bodies to carry out daily life, including muscle development and movement. Some will sit on large leaves or on the warm ground, wings spread, taking in the warmth of the early morning sun to start the day.
Once they are in the air in the morning, they may make a series of short flights to food or another sunning spot to conserve that early energy. Early spring butterflies like mourning cloaks and tortoiseshells hibernate as adults during the winter and may surprise April visitors out on 50-degree days in the woods as they sun near melting snow.
The need for the right temperatures continues throughout the summer into early autumn, when the area’s famous migrant butterflies prepare for their flights southward. Perhaps one of the most memorable warmups occurred in late September 2019 at Peninsula Point at the southern tip of the Stonington Peninsula in Delta County. A series of very cool, rainy days had halted the migration of more than a thousand monarch butterflies and a handful of painted lady butterflies at the tip of the peninsula. They held up mostly in the branches of the white ce-
dar trees near the lighthouse. On Sept. 29, the weather finally broke. A battleship of a cloud that was blocking the sun finally passed over the point, and the bright sunlight began to warm the monarchs as they spread their wings.
After 20 minutes, they began to peel out to make their way across the border.
While the migration of the area’s monarchs to the mountains of Mexico is well known, the migration of the
painted ladies to the arid regions of California, Texas and Mexico is not as familiar. There were a number of them that also waited that day for the weather to turn in their favor, and they took to the air and followed their larg-
The boxelder bug and turkey vulture are among the local animals that can be seen sunbathing. (Photos by Scot Stewart)
er migration mates south and west for the winter.
Similarly, during the summer and en route south, those butterflies can reach optimum temperatures on warmer days. They can shut down some of the excess heat provided by the sun by folding up their wings and resting in the shade. Folding their wings completely and facing away from the sun exposes much less surface area to direct sunlight. This is an especially useful behavior on those 90-degree days and in locations farther south as they migrate.
Buckeye butterflies are another migrant species found in the Upper Peninsula in summer that doesn’t stick around for the winter. These beautiful small butterflies have large eyespots on both upper and lower wings. They are standouts despite their small size and quick wing beat, making them sometimes difficult to see. In fall as they prepare for their long flight to Florida, they sometimes must rely on warm autumn sunshine to generate the energy they need to begin their journey from the U.P. and can be found
The eastern painted turtle is a subspecies of the painted turtle, the most widespread native turtle in North America. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
sunning on the bare ground.
It is the same with eastern painted turtles and eastern garter snakes in the Upper Peninsula and elsewhere. They can be seen on logs sticking out of colder water or in open sandy spots soaking up the sun’s warmth. Nothing says summer morning more than a line of a dozen small turtles and one or two larger ones sunning on a long log on a pond or river.
In spring, water temperatures may barely make it into the mid-40s in deeper ponds and rivers, so a warm, sunny, 70-degree day may seem exquisite to a cold turtle. As summer warms the water, the turtles can become more active all day long. However, more recent research cannot show that sunning actually raises the temperature of all turtles. Nor has research shown it helps the turtles rid themselves of leeches attached to their legs, neck or shell. More research is needed, but maybe, just maybe, it feels good after spending the winter in the bottom of a frozen pond.
Garter snakes can also spend a lot of time in early summer warming themselves directly in the sun or under a warm rock ledge until their metabolism charges up enough so they can search for a fish, frog or toad. They can be seen often around the area’s rivers or swimming across them as they hunt. Occasionally they can be found in shallow water swirling around below the surface as they hunt for food. They may occasionally return to the surface and rest in the sun as they warm up before resuming the hunt.
Even some fish may take advantage of the warmth of the sun by heading into shallow water and allowing their backs to briefly catch some rays. While many fish can be seen in very shallow, warm water in spring, some species of carp have actually been found catching some sun to warm up even more, raising their body temperature higher than the surrounding water temperature, to help them grow faster. While no published studies have been done here, there is plenty of evidence to suggest carp do spend time in very shallow water here in the U.P., although much of it is during spawning season. They are frequently seen along the edge of Peninsula Point and other areas along Lake Michigan in spring, and at times their backs do appear above the water line, maybe catching some of those rays.
Birds, though endothermic animals — with temperatures often maintained between 102 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit — can be found sunning
too. Perhaps the most famous are vultures. In the Upper Peninsula, they are often seen perched high in trees in small groups with wings stretched out in the sun of the early morning. This sunning can help with three different challenges the vultures face. At night, their temperature may drop by about 11 degrees to conserve energy. The sunning helps to raise their body temperature back to 104 degrees.
Vultures may spend hours each day in the air searching for food, and much of their travel is by soaring and gliding. Their wing feathers must be nearly perfect to achieve this, so part of the early morning sunning is to dry damp feathers from humid or rainy nights. While in flight, they seek out thermals, columns of warm air rising from land areas such as bare rock outcroppings on hilltops. Flying into thermals is like jumping in an elevator, with the warm air propelling the birds upward. Once they have gained altitude, they can glide effortlessly for
An eastern chipmunk and a buckeye butterfly catch some rays. (Photos by Scot Stewart)
miles, testing the air for the smells associated with dead animals and a meal. Eventually they will look for the next thermal and rise again.
Sunbathing in the morning serves a third benefit for the vulture — pest and pathogen control. Birds frequently become infested with parasites, usually mites and lice. The heat and UV rays from the sunlight create an unfavorable environment for these pests and will kill or drive off these invertebrates. Shortwave visible blue light has been shown to kill eggs, larvae and adult insects. Vultures can pick up a wide array of parasites as they stand over their food and dig into carcasses frequently inhabited by parasites looking for a new home.
Sunning raises a bird’s temperature, essentially creating a condition called behavioral fever, capable of killing some bacteria and destroying some viruses. Their immune system can protect them from a veritable textbook of toxic biological vectors: salmonella, cholera, anthrax and botulism. It also helps the vultures with the production of an oil containing antibacterial properties. The chemicals are so strong that early physicians placed vulture feathers in their medicine bags to reduce cross-contamination between patients. Sunning is a strategy used by a number of other vultures as well. Black vultures in the Americas and vultures in Africa, Asia and Europe, as well as storks, all sunbathe to assist in their daily challenges.
Altogether there are around 50 bird families that use sunning to help with ectoparasites. Some might be in your front yard. American robins and other songbirds here may be seen sitting on the ground on sunny days looking like they are dying. Their wings may be spread out, their head to one side, flattened out as much as possible, almost looking like they have been run over by a car. They may be warming up, or combining it with dusting or “anting.” The heat and UV rays can eliminate parasites. Dusting dries the oils on the skin and can kill lice on the bodies of the birds too. Sometimes the sunning occurs atop anthills. As the hill remains covered, the ants begin to swarm over the bird. As they become irritated, they begin to spray formic acid on the birds’ feathers. It is a chemical that usually pushes mites and lice off the bird, freeing it of many of its parasites. It’s an instant natural pesticide application.
This protection extends all the way to smaller animals as well. Young gray tree frogs emerge from the mitigation ponds at Presque Isle in Marquette to warm on sunny mornings on the leaves of milkweed and alder trees. It gets their body temperature up to levels where they can be active enough to pursue lively insects. But their exposure to UV light can help elevate their immune system to levels needed to deal with pathogens.
The ultimate in health care from the sun comes from western boxelder
River otters spend much of their time in water hunting for food, but they can be seen warming themselves on sunny days. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
bugs. Exposure to the sun helps them produce a chemical they spread across their body and legs when they groom. The chemical covers spores of fungi and other pathogens and destroys them. The result is these bugs suffer few, if any, diseases.
In the Upper Peninsula, because of the cooler temperatures of water through mid-summer in some years, mother ducks can be seen sunning with their young ducklings along the edges of rivers and lakes. This warming reduces the energy needed to maintain body temperatures and the need to forage more for food to produce that energy. Mallards can be found on the lower levels of the area’s breakwaters. Ring-necked ducks
regularly find fallen trees to rest with their young at Seney National Wildlife Refuge. A bunch of common mergansers can be found each year along the shore of the Dead River with their young basking in the sun of summer.
Mammals are another example of endothermic, or warm-blooded, animals. Like birds, they attempt to maintain a fairly stable body temperature. When exposed to cold water or air, like humans they tend to find ways to warm. Seals, walruses and sea lions all spend large amounts of time sunning themselves on beaches, rocky islets and even icebergs. Here, river otters spend large portions of some days in and under water hunting fish,
Monarch butterflies perch at Peninsula Point. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
crayfish and other animals all winter, and may spend parts of sunny days sitting on snow and ice ledges briefly warming themselves.
Even more surprising are some familiar mammals catching rays on mid-summer days. Gray squirrels and eastern chipmunks can be found laying out on bird feeders, deck railings and other places to catch a few rays and warm up to normal levels. It also provides ways to reduce the animals’ need for food to maintain normal metabolism levels. It is amazing to see how comfortable they look as they stretch out even on a mid-summer day in the sun.
While people may tend to connect
the rays of sunlight most directly with plants and photosynthesis, the links to animals and their health are just as strong. Just ask all those throngs on the beach each summer, those looking to the sun to make the adjustments they need to deal with seasonal affective disorder, or just those out enjoying a sunny day. The power of the sun is staggering and incredibly important in the lives of all.
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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.
The mourning cloak butterfly, Nymphalis antiopa, is native to North America and Eurasia. It is most commonly seen locally in the spring. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
The American robin is the state bird of Michigan — as well as Wisconsin and Connecticut. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
Meet the duo behind ‘Under the Radar Michigan’
Exploring the heart of a state
By Jennifer Champagne
Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman are more than just the faces behind the popular PBS show “Under the Radar Michigan.” They are storytellers, adventurers and longtime friends whose journey through Michigan’s hidden gems has captured the hearts of viewers across the state and beyond. Their chemistry on screen is a reflection of a deep-rooted camaraderie that began over 40 years ago in a place not far from where their show would later begin — Detroit. Their story started long before the first episode of “Under the Radar Michigan,” or “UTR,” aired. In 1982, Daldin and Edelman first met while working at WRIF-101.1 FM, a Detroit-based rock station. Both were passionate about radio and entertainment, but it was their shared humor
and love for playing music that solidified their bond.
“He’s always been into rock, so he joined our band Free Beer as a drummer, and it turned into a 13-year run,” Edelman said of Daldin. “It was just a bunch of dads buying more gear than we needed, playing some chords and having fun. We avoided the usual songs like ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ or ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ and instead played stuff like ‘White Punks on Dope.’ The moms might have been confused, but it made us happy.”
“Back in school,” Daldin said, “I toured the Midwest for years in a hard rock band. We had many names, but Clockworks was probably the heaviest. I played drums and was set on becoming a rock star. But when I started losing my hair, I realized that might not happen, so I decided to go back to college.”
Jim Edelman, left, and Tom Daldin of “Under the Radar Michigan” check out the local wildlife during a recent visit to Munising. (Photo courtesy of “Under the Radar Michigan”)
After their time in radio, Daldin and Edelman pursued different careers. Daldin, who had earned a degree in journalism from Oakland University, became an Emmy-winning producer, actor and writer. Edelman’s career continued in radio, where he took on various roles, from producing to national sales. Despite their divergent paths, their friendship remained strong.
By 2010, both found themselves at career crossroads. The advertising industry was hit hard by economic cutbacks. Edelman lost his job as a national sales manager for Clear Channel Communications in 2008, and Daldin’s work as a high-end video producer for the auto industry began to wane. “It was one of those moments where you either panic or pivot,” Edelman said. “We chose to pivot.”
The idea for “UTR” came almost by accident. After pitching a children’s show to PBS executives — a pitch that was quickly turned down — the duo was asked what else they had. On the spot, they proposed a show about traveling around Michigan.
“They asked us to tell them more, and we just started talking about all the cool places we knew in Michigan,” Daldin said. “Before we knew it, they were hooked.”
“Under the Radar Michigan” was born from a desire to tell the stories of Michigan’s lesser-known destinations and the people who make those places special. The show’s premise was simple yet powerful: Explore the state and highlight the hidden gems that make Michigan unique.
From its first season, “UTR” resonated with viewers, quickly gaining a following. The genuine rapport between Daldin and Edelman, combined with their obvious love for Michigan, made the show both informative and entertaining.
Dave Lorenz, former vice president of Travel Michigan, has been a close collaborator since the show’s inception. “From the first meeting, I knew these guys were genuine and unique — everything you’d want in a business partner and entertainer,” Lorenz said. “What you see on TV is what they really are — a couple of goofy guys who love the state and love people.”
This ability to connect with audiences was further bolstered by the support of Michigan’s travel and tourism sectors. Kelly Wolgamott, vice president of Travel Michigan for the Michigan Economic Development Corp., emphasized the show’s significance: “‘UTR’ has done an incredi-
ble job of highlighting the diverse and vibrant communities throughout our state. Tom and Jim’s work has been instrumental in promoting Michigan as a travel destination.”
Lorenz credits Wolgamott for initially putting the show on his radar. Having traveled with Daldin and
Edelman, Lorenz added, “Traveling with those guys is always a great time. They’re just plain goofy, always doing funny things to each other. Every time we cross the Mackinac Bridge, they either do a Facebook Live or record it — singing or doing something silly. It’s always memorable.”
Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman search for the hidden gems of their home state — and they have fun along the way. (Photos courtesy of “Under the Radar Michigan”)
Daldin said, “Every time we cross the bridge into the U.P., I’m reminded of how special this place is. There’s a magic here that you can’t find anywhere else.”
Lorenz also reflected on the deeper synergy between him and the “UTR” team. “Tom and Jim truly understand what the Pure Michigan message is about. It’s about welcoming everyone. They embody that attitude, and it shines through in their program. That’s why people are so attached to them. They’re approachable; people feel like they can just walk up to them because they’re genuinely like the rest of us.”
Over the years, “UTR” has evolved, but its core mission remains the same. The show has expanded its reach, now airing across the United States and in parts of Canada, but it has never lost its Michigan focus. “We’re always looking for new places to feature,” Edelman said. “But it’s not just about the locations; it’s about the people we meet along the way. They’re the ones
who bring these places to life.”
This focus on people is evident in every episode. Whether it’s a local artist, a small business owner or a park ranger, Daldin and Edelman make it a point to highlight the individuals who contribute to the vibrancy of Michigan’s communities.
One of the most recent episodes of “UTR” brought Daldin and Edelman to Munising, a place that holds a special spot in Daldin’s heart. “Munising might just be my favorite spot in the U.P.,” he said. “It’s this great little slice of Michigan Americana stuck in the middle of paradise. It’s centrally located in a beautiful place, with everything from Grand Island to the Pictured Rocks — it’s got it all.”
The episode showcased Munising’s natural beauty, from its breathtaking waterfalls to the iconic Pictured Rocks. But more than just the scenery, the episode highlighted the people who make Munising special.
Deidre Phillipson, part-owner and general manager of Pictured Rocks Kayaking, was one of those featured in the episode. “Tom and Jim were so easy to work with,” Phillipson said. “They made the whole experience fun and really showcased what makes our business unique.”
Phillipson’s operation at Pictured Rocks Kayaking offers a unique way to experience the natural wonders of the area, making kayaking accessible to people of all abilities. “Our days might seem redundant, but no day is ever the same out on the water,” Phil-
Ana-Marija Dolaskie, a stakeholder in Deployed Capital, which runs the Brownstone Inn, also appeared in the Munising episode. She praised Daldin and Edelman’s storytelling approach: “They’re true veterans at what they do. They really bring out the best in people and have a genuine love for showcasing places like Munising.”
Katherine Reynolds, CEO of the Greater Munising Bay Partnership and executive director of the Munising Downtown Development Authority, echoed these sentiments. “It’s exciting to have ‘Under the Radar’ back in Munising and showcasing so many of our wonderful assets,” she said. “Shows like this remind us not only what a beautiful place we live in, but how lucky we are to live here.”
For Daldin and Edelman, “UTR” is more than just a television show — it’s a mission. It’s about celebrating Michigan, its people and its places. It’s about finding the stories that often go untold and bringing them to a wider audience.
Edelman sees “UTR” as a way to give back to the state they both love. “We’ve been given this incredible opportunity to share Michigan with the world,” he said. “And that’s something we don’t take lightly.”
While “UTR” has taken Daldin and Edelman to nearly every corner of Michigan, it has also been a personal journey for both of them. Daldin, who grew up in Birmingham, Mich-
Calvin Johnson from Pictured Rocks Kayaking and a camera operator with “Under the Radar Michigan” work on an episode of the show on Lake Superior. (Photo courtesy of “Under the Radar Michigan”)
igan, often reflects on how his love for travel and storytelling began at an early age. “At 12, I joined the World Adventure Series Club at the Detroit Institute of Arts,” Daldin said. “My mom would drop me off to watch travelog films, and that’s where my passion for exploring started.”
Edelman’s journey has been just as eclectic. From working with the Detroit Pistons to being a ski instructor, and now part-owner with his wife of The Lake Theatre in Oscoda, Michigan, Edelman’s path to television was anything but traditional. But through it all, his love for radio and storytelling remained constant. “‘UTR’ allows me to combine the best of my sales skills with the creative guy that’s always been lurking in the shadows,” Edelman said.
Their time on the road together has been filled with countless adventures and memorable moments. Daldin reflected on one particularly touching experience: “We did a story up in Cadillac, at a place called After 26 Depot. It’s a little restaurant where they took the old historic train station and turned it into something special. They hire people who are older than 26 and have special needs. Apparently, once you reach the age of 26, you age out of most programs, funding and support from the state and government. So what they’ve done is hire these special needs individuals to work at this restaurant. The impact on those people and their families has been incredible. We received more responses from that segment than any other we’ve done. I actually cried while we were filming, which is rare for me, because it was such a touching and meaningful initiative. Every town should have an After 26 Depot.”
But not all memorable moments are so serious. Daldin humorously recalled a Marquette episode where he dove off Black Rocks wearing a Superman suit: “I thought the suit
would protect me from the impact and the freezing Lake Superior water. But as soon as I hit the water, the
cape wrapped around my arm, and I realized I was in trouble. I’m trying to smile and swim because the cameras
are rolling, but all I can think is, ‘How do I tell them I’m drowning here?’ That was definitely a surprise.”
As “UTR” enters its 14th season, Daldin and Edelman show no signs of slowing down. They continue to find new stories, new places and new people to feature on the show. And while the show has grown in popularity, it has never lost its focus on what makes Michigan special. “Our goal is simple,” Daldin said. “We want to remind people how lucky we are to live in Michigan.”
For viewers, “Under the Radar Michigan” is more than a travel show — it’s a love letter to Michigan. Daldin and Edelman’s journey from bonding through their dad band to becoming the faces of one of Michigan’s most beloved TV shows is a story of determination, camaraderie and a profound love for their state.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a cherished program that celebrates Michigan’s unique charm and character. “UTR” isn’t just a job for Daldin and Edelman; it’s a passion project that has taken them to unexpected places and introduced them to unforgettable people.
As they continue exploring new corners of the state, one thing is clear: The adventure is far from over. Their partnership, forged through years of shared storytelling — often during long car trips — resonates deeply with viewers, making “Under the Radar Michigan” a true celebration of the state and its stories. Daldin and Edelman’s journey illustrates that sometimes the best stories are right under our noses, waiting to be told.
MM
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.
During his recent visit to Munising, Tom Daldin met with Ana-Marija Dolaskie of Deployed Capital, above, and Katherine Reynolds of the Greater Munising Bay Partnership. (Photos courtesy of “Under the Radar Michigan”)
on campus
NMU volleyball and basketball teams look forward to renovated Vandament
‘It will be a
desired ticket’
By Jim LaJoie
Fans of the Northern Michigan University volleyball and basketball teams are in for a big treat this month. The much anticipated unveiling of the revamped Vandament Arena, housed inside the Physical Education Instructional Facility on NMU’s campus, is set for Thursday, Sept. 12, when the women’s volleyball team entertains Findlay University in non-conference action.
The volleyball Wildcats have played in the arena since it opened in 1995 and will continue to call the facility their home. Beginning later this autumn, however, Vandament Arena will also become the new home of the NMU men’s and women’s basketball teams after their move from the Berry Events Center.
The arena’s renovation, a $2.5 million project spearheaded by Closner Construction of Marquette, will result in seating for about 1,400 fans. Throughout its existence as a volleyball arena, Vandament’s court was oriented north-south with bleachers on the east and west sides. The new layout will feature seating on all four sides of the court, which has been rotated to an east-west configuration.
Seating on both sidelines of the newly designed court will feature
fold-down cushioned seats with backrests, while the baseline seats behind each basket will be bleacher style.
The concession stands will be in the newly renovated hallway. The new look will feature a lowered ceiling with bright lighting. The walls will highlight photos and records from past teams. The ticket office, just inside the doors of the PEIF, will sell tickets for volleyball and basketball.
And, to add to its appeal, the renovated arena will feature two large video screens, one 30 by 13 feet and the other 23 by 13 feet.
“There will be a lot of history and awards up on the [hallway] walls,” said Derek Hall, chief marketing officer and spokesperson for the university. “The new hallway will nod to the successes for the three sports. The locker rooms will still be across the hall. We’re on budget and on time for the first volleyball match on Sept. 12. There will be a grand opening prior to that.”
Casey Thousand, head coach of the NMU women’s basketball team, is excited for her squad to play in the renovated facility. The NMU women, coming off an NCAA Tournament appearance last season, play host to Minnesota Crookston on Nov. 15.
“A cozy atmosphere can really make a difference, creating a comfortable and inviting environment,”
This artist’s rendering shows the renovated Vandament Arena’s setup for basketball games. (Photo courtesy of Northern Michigan University)
Thousand said. “Having a home-court advantage will be big for our team.”
She added the move to Vandament Arena will immeasurably enhance her team’s practice regime. When the basketball teams played their games in the Berry Events Center, which they shared with hockey, they had limited opportunities to practice in the Berry.
“These improvements mean that our players will have more access to our home court and will help with a great competitive atmosphere,” she said. “Our players are ecstatic about the opportunity to get into the new facility. This also gives our program a chance to celebrate the history and recognize all the great athletes who have been a part of our women’s basketball team.”
NMU men’s basketball coach Matt Majkrzak added, “Basketball, more than any other sport, benefits from having noise and the crowd feeling part of the game. It will be right on top of you and will be loud. It will be good for us.”
The NMU men are coming off a regular-season conference championship and back-to-back appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Their first game in Vandament Arena is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 30, against Concordia University Wisconsin.
Hall said the project has progressed smoothly since it began in January. The biggest challenge, he said, was “trying to get as many seats in there as possible” — especially in light of last season, when both basketball teams made postseason runs that energized fans.
“We looked at the year-end when things were on the line. We were winning, and the [Berry] was alive,” said Hall, who noted that the remodeled facility lost some seating from the original redesign plans on account of a new main entrance. “We bring that over here, and fewer people will be getting in. The energy level will be higher, but it will be a desired ticket. It will look really good.”
The arena will undoubtedly provide a home-court advantage to the volleyball and basketball teams. Prior to the renovation, the basketball teams practiced in PEIF practice gyms since the Berry Events Center’s ice sheet was in place for hockey.
“For basketball,” Hall said, “it brings the fans right up to the court. ... The energy level in that room, compared to the Berry, will be a big difference.”
The basketball teams’ move from the Berry to Vandament marks the end of an era for the NMU facilities staff, which was responsible for preparing the Berry for two sports, sometimes
on the same day.
In every season, there were weeks when the basketball and hockey teams all played at home. Staff would have to assemble the basketball court for games on Thursday evening, then immediately remove the court for a hockey game on Friday evening. Then, after the Friday hockey game, the basketball court would have to be reassembled for two games on Saturday. After the second basketball game, workers would hustle to once again remove the court in time for the hockey game on Saturday night.
“The juggling of the floor and ice was hard on the teams, hard on our staff,” Hall said. “There was labor involved and wear and tear of the floor. This is the perfect time to make the change.”
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Jim LaJoie was a newspaper sports writer and sports editor from 1986 to 1996. He is an award-winning sports columnist for The U.P. Catholic.
Answers for the crossword puzzle on page 13
The renovated Vandament Arena is scheduled to be unveiled Sept. 12 during the NMU women’s volleyball team’s match against Findlay University. Later this fall, both NMU basketball teams will move into Vandament. The arena will provide seating for around 1,400 fans. (Photo by Jim LaJoie)
the arts
Yoop! Fest returns for its fourth year, this time at the Calumet Theatre
That punk festival feel
By Brad Gischia
Moving to a new place is an exciting adventure. You bring your furniture, clothing, family mementos — and all of that gets jammed into this new existence. You also bring your ideas and your experiences to a new place and fit them into the life you’re creating.
Chris Joutras took his experiences and his business from Wisconsin and transplanted them in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He had started Kitschy Spirit Records in Madison, along with KitschyFest, a music festival, as a way to promote bands on his label and other acts from the area.
In 2020 Joutras and his wife, Anna Greenwood, moved to Calumet. “It was sort of a hard reset for everything,” Joutras said of the 2020 pandemic and ensuing social shutdown. “I was looking for excuses for my friends to visit me, basically, and thought, ‘Why don’t I ask them to
come up and play?’”
This was the birth of Yoop! Fest.
One of the first calls Joutras made was to Eric Schultz, a longtime musician from the Milwaukee area. “I play drums in a hardcore thrash band called Holy Shit! We’ve been booking shows and touring for 20 years,” Schultz said. “Chris was telling us how much he loved living up here but said there weren’t that many bands, so then he started Yoop! Fest, and we decided that we would come up.”
Schultz and the members of his band, along with members of another band he plays with called Robits, all came up and played Yoop! Fest. “When Chris suggested it, I was like, ‘Yeah, any of the bands I play with would be into that,’” he said. “We all came up and camped. It was like a vacation where we got the chance to play shows.”
That first year, the festival was staged at the skate park in Houghton. Bands traveled from Milwaukee,
Minneapolis, Marquette and from the local area. “People were really excited to play in a place they never had before,” Joutras said. “Everyone seemed to have a really good time.”
“It’s really fun,” Schultz said. “Getting away from the city is a really big part of it for us. We seem like we’re received well, and people have a good time.”
The first Yoop! Fest was free, with Joutras taking donations and selling T-shirts to try to cover costs for the bands. “It was sort of a ‘Wayne’s World’ thing,” he said. “If you book it, they will come … .”
He’s still booking bands four years later. “This year we’ve tried to step up our game,” Joutras said. The fourth Yoop! Fest will be taking place Sept. 20 and 21 at the historic Calumet Theatre. “We hope to have more bands from further away and bands with a wider musical scope but still keep that punk festival feel,” Joutras said.
The Calumet Theatre opened in
Yoop! Fest IV is scheduled for Sept. 20 and 21 at the historic Calumet Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Yoop! Fest)
1900 and has since hosted a wide variety of acts, from Broadway musicals to Greg Brown and Trampled by Turtles. A punk festival isn’t the venue’s typical offering, but neither is it out of the question. “It’s a gorgeous, historic space,” Joutras said. “We’re excited to be able to share it with out-oftown bands and groups that may have grown up seeing shows here.”
Using an indoor facility offers its own challenges and rewards. “Outdoor shows are great,” Joutras said, “because they offer that festival feel. They’re special and beautiful. But with indoor venues, you don’t have to worry about the weather or neighbors.”
Small town theaters are dependent on shows like Yoop! Fest to keep them alive. “It’s such a special resource,” Joutras said. “We want to make sure everyone knows about it.”
Yoop! Fest is billed as a punk festival, a label that fits most of the acts. “Not every band is a punk band,” Joutras said, “but at least half of them are. There are a lot of different subgenres to punk. That being said, being punk isn’t a requirement. I love being able to showcase local bands.”
One local act playing this year is Mr. Cesar and the Lucha Tones, based in the Keweenaw. Cesar Solorzano moved to Houghton from Los Angeles three years ago and fell in love with the area. In L.A. he had a band and transported that same music to the Upper Peninsula after meeting a few musicians.
The Lucha Tones will be playing instrumental surf music for the crowd at Yoop! Fest, but it’s also a full stage show including some comedic skits. “It’s all paying tribute to those surf artists from the ’60s,” Solorzano said, “like Dick Dale, the Astronauts and the Ventures.”
This will be the third time the Lucha Tones have played at Yoop! Fest. “The first time it was just my guitarist and myself,” Solorzano said. “It was a good experience.”
Joutras said he wants to keep his expectations in check regarding expansion of the event. “Right now it’s sort of like a family reunion,” he said. “I didn’t know a lot of people when I moved up here, but that’s starting to go away the longer I’m here.”
Another change from last year is that the festival will be two days rather than three, as it was in 2023. “Three days was great, but I was pretty much wiped out by the morning of the third day,” Joutras said.
As one of the musicians returning for the fourth time, Schultz said he’s seen pretty good growth in the event. “He’s definitely gotten a wider
“
I WAS LOOKING FOR EXCUSES FOR MY FRIENDS TO VISIT ME.
range of bands,” Schultz said. “You don’t want to see all the same bands every year. There are a lot of bands from around 100 miles away.” Schultz said the festival offers musicians a chance to see what’s happening in the Upper Peninsula on a musical level: “It’s cool to see what’s going on up there from our perspective.”
Also new this year is a vendor space at the festival. The ballroom of the Calumet Theatre will host a range of arts and crafts people hoping to catch the concert-going crowd. Joutras said, “We also hope to have the ability to livestream the shows.”
Joutras said the reemergence of live shows after the pandemic has been healthy for musicians and music lovers. “It seems like a lot of things have been on pause since then,” he said. “The scene has slowed down a lot because of that, and it’s been healing since. The first festival happened at a good time, both for the musicians
and the area. It’s all about organizing and supporting each other.”
Joutras is still a fan first and foremost and is looking forward to seeing the shows. “I’m very excited to see Morning of Blackstar,” he said. “They’re coming from Cleveland and just put out a new record.” Joutras described them as “astro-futurist, soul jazz, an avant-garde mix of genres.”
This year’s festival, called Yoop! Fest IV, will take place Sept. 20 and 21 at the Calumet Theatre. For tickets, go to yoopfest.com or visit Kitschy Spirit Records in Calumet. The festival lineup is available on Kitschy Spirit’s Facebook page or on Instagram.
“We offer a mix of returning bands, a mix of old and new, regional locals and old favorites as well as new bands,” Joutras said. “We just really appreciate that the bands are willing to do this.”
Schultz applauds Joutras for his efforts. “I really admire what Chris is doing,” he said. “He’s getting people involved with local music both with the festival and at the store, where he has open-mic nights. I haven’t seen that before.”
“One of the biggest takeaways for me,” Solorzano said, “is that this is a small town, but it’s refreshing to be around local musicians and to meet and hang out with other groups from out of town. Networking and sharing ideas is a very positive experience for me. This is a great opportunity for people to see artists who want to showcase their original work.”
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.
The first Yoop! Fest was held at the skate park in Houghton. This year’s event will take place at the Calumet Theatre. (Photo courtesy of Yoop! Fest)
spirit of water
Cathedrals, water, promise
Editor’s note: This article is the first in a series by the Interfaith 2024-25 Water Stewards Initiative, a two-year collaboration with local municipalities, federal agencies and regional Native American tribes to protect and preserve the quality of our accessible drinking water in northern Michigan.
By Jon Magnuson
Not long ago, I visited St. Louis for a work project. I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and checked into a small hotel near Washington University. Having the evening free of obligations, I decided to visit the city’s renowned Cathedral Basilica where a Mass was scheduled. I slipped into a back pew. During the
The Spirit of Water Health, Hope & Healing
ensuing liturgy and ancient ritual, folks from all walks of life proceeded up a marble aisle to receive a sacrament of bread and wine. There were individuals who arrived in limousines, dressed in suits. Others came forward to the altar in unwashed tattered shirts and jeans. Children were there, immigrants from Mexico, the aged and infirm, and crowds of tourists. No tickets were required to enter that historic sanctuary filled with symbols of hope and promise. All were welcome. Returning to my hotel room an hour
The Interfaith Water Stewards Initiative works to celebrate — and protect — the joy of pure water. (Photo courtesy of the Cedar Tree Institute)
or two later, I turned to the sink to find a sign that said, “Water is not safe to drink.” Near the faucet were two 10-ounce bottles of water, each with a price tag of $2.50. A thought arose: What kind of society are we living in that clear, pure water is not available for all people, regardless of their ethnic background, age or economic status? Why should not clean water, like religious sacraments that provide meaning of grace and blessing for many, be available to everyone?
Fresh water is an essential human concern. In Michigan’s Northern Great Lakes Basin, we are surrounded by lakes, rivers, ponds and streams. Ensuring clean, healthy drinking water is something we can do better. Even here.
In “Troubled Water: What’s Wrong with What We Drink” (2019), Seth Siegel, an attorney and journalist, provides a disturbing look at the state of municipal water systems and drinking water sources across North America. It’s a fascinating read. Lack of coordinated planning, inadequate testing and an increasing profusion of toxic chemicals have resulted is a situation no one saw coming.
We most certainly have a beautiful environmental landscape here in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We also have an opportunity to take a closer look at this gift and understand the challenges we face in building a deeper consciousness about our water systems and private drinking wells. We may, one day, be able to work together to make a bold claim: That although our rural populations in the Upper Peninsula may reflect the lowest household incomes in the state of Michigan, we have joined together with local governments and regional tribes to make sure we are among those who have the best drinking water in the United States. With healthier water and healthier communities, we will no longer need to buy water bottled in Atlanta or New Jersey.
The country of Sweden and California’s Orange County are examples of places that have done exactly that. Bottled water is regarded in those settings as inferior to what is available at any public tap. We can do this.
Pure water is not simply a necessity for life. It’s also a prism for helping us see the world in new ways. Over the next 12 months, Marquette Monthly will be publishing columns written by physicians, Native Americans, researchers, poets and geologists, about how we can begin to work toward this goal.
Last winter a dream was shared with me from a participant in a dream series in which I participated. It had
ENSURING CLEAN, HEALTHY DRINKING WATER IS SOMETHING WE CAN DO BETTER. EVEN HERE.
to do with water. One individual, a member and retired leader in her faith community, shared the following:
“I was standing in Lake Michigan. The water was very still. And clear. I saw the glistening of the pebbles and rocks by my feet. I felt overwhelmed by a sense of peace. Safety, beauty and peace.”
One of the other members of the dream circle remarked, “When rocks and pebbles are removed from the water, they lose their glistening shine. Is that your experience as well?”
The dreamer responded in the affirmative. So did the rest of us. Without exception. I’ve thought about that dream. How through quiet, pure water we are able to see the goodness of and beauty of everything. It’s a particular way of seeing. An invitation for us all.
Confidence in the sanctity of the very water that we choose to drink, its purity and reliability, provides a kind of doorway into the sacred, the transcendent. It’s a glistening promise of well-being for the planet and all our neighbors here in the Northern Great Lakes Basin.
Let’s begin by taking a bow of thanks to the important work of our public officials who monitor our water sources. Next, prepare to explore the condition of our local groundwater and treatment facility operations. Such a collective effort can bring together rich and poor, the immigrant, the Indigenous, the young, the old. It will be a gift for the generations that follow us.
MM
Jon Magnuson is director of the Cedar Tree Institute (cedartreeinstitute. org) and a member of the Interfaith Northern Great Lakes Water Stewards. He lives in Marquette.
superior reads
A well-researched history of the snowmobile
More than 150 photos show a century of innovation
Review by Victor R. Volkman
Imet Larry Jorgensen, author of “Make It Go in the Snow: People and Ideas in the History of Snowmobiles,” when his first U.P.-themed book, “Shipwrecked and Rescued: The City of Bangor,” won a U.P. Notable Books award in 2023. I found Jorgensen to be both a personable presenter and a meticulous, even obsessive, researcher of facts and people. So I was excited to open the cover of “Make It Go in the Snow” and see more than 150 photos detailing nearly 100 years of humanity’s quest to leave sled dogs behind and have fast, reliable transportation in our snowy landscapes.
Let me back up a little bit, because, you see, nearly everyone in northern and Upper Michigan has some relatable personal snowmobile backstory. My mom’s side of the family had relocated to beautiful Paradise Lake, Michigan (formerly Carp Lake), just 8 miles due south of Mackinaw City, in the 1960s. As a boy, I would spend glorious snow-filled Christmas vacations there and be introduced to the wonders of ice fishing and, yes, snowmobiling. I vividly remember steering the machine around age 10 while my Uncle Bob was right behind me on the seat. I had my snow boots, a red snowmobile suit and a white motorcycle helmet to cap off the outfit. The big winter excitement in Mack City was the snowmobile races, and I remember seeing and hearing them — and, of course, the scent of the engine exhaust. As a youngster in 1974, you would just assume stuff like snowmobiles had been around forever. Little did I know that just four years
Larry Jorgensen
prior to my first snowmobile ride, Jorgensen was one of three snowmobilers who participated in the 1970 Allsport Alaskan Expedition. It was an endurance test for the new Allsport Tracker snowmobile that went from Fairbanks to Seattle.
As a true humble Midwesterner, Jorgensen leaves his personal exploits in the snowmobile arena until the final chapter of the book, but I think readers should know his credentials. Jorgensen was fortunate to become a riding member of the pioneer cross-country snowmobile group, the Peninsula Pathfinders of Upper Michigan. He participated in the club’s first three long-distance rides, including the 1970 trip across the Mackinac Bridge. Although he owned an Arctic Cat, he had been convinced to ride an Eskimo snowmobile, and it may have been the only time an Eskimo sled crossed the Big Mac.
A seasoned journalist, Jorgensen published a monthly snowmobile magazine, Midwest Sno-Trails, for six years and also wrote a weekly snowmobile column for United Press International. He served on the board of directors for the United States Snow-
mobile Association Central Division, including one year as president. Jorgensen also was president of his local snowmobile club in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He was a news reporter for a TV station in Green Bay, and in 1969 he and a fellow station employee named John Ireland produced the first consumer snowmobile exposition at the Brown County Arena.
At this point, you’re probably convinced of Jorgensen’s bona fides and are asking yourself, “But what is this book really about?” Our story begins in 1924 in Sayner, Wisconsin, with the Eliason Motor Toboggan. Carl Eliason was a prescient inventor, and his device was the first to include key features such as the endless moving track system with cleats and slide rails, a floating suspension and padded seats — all features that literally defined the word “snowmobile.” However, it took 15 years for Eliason to become a success, and what a success it was.
Jorgensen, being the obsessive researcher that he is, covers a variety of ways of “making it go” outside the conventional moving track system. It turns out that propeller wind power was tried by many pioneers. Similar to those ubiquitous airboats of Florida’s Everglades, the idea was for these machines to glide effortlessly over the snowscape. The Fudge Snowplane, Lorch Snowplane, Polaris Air Sled and others had a modicum of success in this arena, although the power-toweight ratio was always an issue.
Many of these inventors and tinkerers were obligated to use parts of existing land vehicles as a matter of practicality. Conversion kits for the Ford Model T were popular, as well as remanufactured Model T’s. The aforementioned snowplanes often used airplane or Model A engines. The Eskimobile attachment for a Model T was designed with a modified suspension allowing the tracks and skis to be unbolted, providing year-round use of the vehicle. An advertisement for the Eskimobile called it an “all year car adaptable to your needs assuring comfortable transportation for all seasons and under all road conditions.”
I can only scratch the surface of the immense amount of carefully researched detail in “Make It Go in the Snow.” A further dozen chapters cover a score of other ideas such as screw-propelled snowmobile motors, the Wormobile and innovative products from Studebaker, Chrysler, Honda and many others. Some are just awesome to behold, such as the 15-ton Lombard Log Hauler built in 1890, which was literally a steam engine on skis — and my personal favorite, Admiral Richard Byrd’s singular 1939 Snow Cruiser. The latter cost nearly $4 million (in today’s dollars) and measured 56 feet long and 20 feet wide and sported 10foot diameter tires. It even carried an airplane on its back.
Whether you’re an old timer like me who rode snowmobiles in the 1970s or a youth who’s just gotten addicted to the thrill, there’s something for everyone in Jorgensen’s “Make It
Go in the Snow.” I highly recommend this book for the snowmobiling enthusiast Yoopers on your Christmas list. MM
Victor R. Volkman is a graduate of Michigan Technological University (Class of ’86) 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.
Proper Perspective poetry
By Ronnie Ferguson
“The Famous Tay Whale” by William Topaz McGonagall, a poem about a humpback whale hunted and killed in 1883, compelled critic Paul Godfrey to label McGonagall
“the worst poet in the English language.” In 1958, the composer Mátyás Seiber set the poem to music.
Seiber’s score included an orchestra, a foghorn, an espresso machine, and a narrator. If there’s any doubt in your mind, the one who arranges an orchestra and an espresso machine in your honor, that’s who you should marry. You deserve it.
You deserve everything. You’re the best.
Ronnie Ferguson’s artistic endeavors span the genres of poetry, music, film, theater and the visual arts. Streaking in Tongues, the music project he shares with his son, has released nine critically acclaimed albums. “Bigfoot and Marty,” his forthcoming documentary focused on the work of fellow U.P. poet Marty Achatz, won the Independent Spirit Award at Midwest WeirdFest. Ronnie co-founded and continues to co-organize The International 3-Day Poetry Chapbook Contest and The Great Lakes Poetry Festival. He is the author of “When I Was a Fire,” the first in a four-book poetry series titled “Selfies.” The second book, “A Good Fight is Hard to Find,” was published by Harvard Square Press in July. His books and music are available at harvardsquarepress. com and streakingintongues.com.
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.
NMU and Blackrocks Brewery partner to launch Wildcat Gold
Northern Michigan University is partnering with Blackrocks Brewery in Marquette to launch Wildcat Gold, a new beer created by alumni, for alumni, in celebration of NMU’s 125th anniversary. The gold lager made its debut at an Alumni Friday event on Aug. 23 at the Blackrocks Brewery Pub. It will also be offered at the Homecoming football game tailgate party on Saturday, Sept. 21, and at Wildcat hockey games this season, while quantities last.
“We are honored to partner with NMU in the creation of the Wildcat Gold Lager, especially as it commemorates its 125-year anniversary,” said Andy Langlois, a 1995 alumnus and co-owner of Blackrocks Brewery.
“The positive impact NMU has on the surrounding area cannot be overstated. NMU was the catalyst for most of our staff to come to Marquette. Many of us fell in love with the area and chose to live our lives here. We hope this beer will invoke memories of attending NMU, being in Marquette, and living like a Wildcat. Here’s to another 125 years!”
A designated portion of the proceeds from the sales of Wildcat Gold will support student recreation and health initiatives, including upgraded equipment support at the NMU Out-
door Recreation Center. The center provides NMU students with equipment rentals at no cost, including mountain bikes and Nordic skiing gear, in order to provide convenient access to healthy recreation opportunities provided by the Noquemanon Trail Network.
“As Wildcats gather to celebrate Northern’s 125th anniversary, this collaboration provides a point of connection for Wildcat alumni and friends, while also supporting recreational access for students,” said Dave Nyberg, NMU executive director of business engagement and economic development. “Whether gathering with old friends at an alumni event, cheering on the ’Cats at the Berry or Superior Dome or relaxing after a day on the trail, we hope that Wildcats everywhere share a sense of Northern when responsibly enjoying Wildcat Gold. Special thanks to our friends at Wildcat-owned Blackrocks Brewery for their partnership and shared community-focused spirit.”
Wildcat Gold, at 4.8% ABV, is described as “a celebratory gold lager for over 125 years of pride, place and purpose. To those who stay Wild. To those who live in Green and Gold. It’s a great day to be a Wildcat.”
Northern Michigan University alumni Steve Farr, left, and Andy Langlois of Blackrocks Brewery showcase their new Wildcat Gold Lager. (Photo courtesy of NMU)
MTU research award winner tracks impact of volcanoes
Simon Carn, a world authority on satellite-powered analysis of global volcanic activity, is the winner of the 2024 Michigan Technological University Research Award.
Carn has scaled many mountains during his career — it’s his love for climbing, hiking and travel that led him to study geology.
“Geology provided a pathway to a deeper understanding of landscape formation and evolution,” said Carn, a distinguished professor in the Michigan Tech College of Engineering’s Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences. “Volcanology was an added attraction due to its focus on dynamic, visually spectacular processes that can have significant impacts on climate, the environment and human health. I also enjoy the interdisciplinary nature of volcanology, which integrates aspects of diverse subjects including geology, physics, chemistry, math, atmospheric science, data science, social sciences and even history and the arts, among others.”
Carn has to date generated approximately $15 million in research grants as a principal or co-investigator. He has received funding support from agencies at the apex of exploration and discovery, including NASA, the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Carn’s teaching experiences span the globe, from his volcanology course at Michigan Tech, where he arrived in 2008, to a recent workshop on remote sensing for volcano monitoring at an IAVCEI Scientific Assembly in Rotorua, New Zealand.
At Michigan Tech, Carn has mentored four postdoctoral associates, 22 Ph.D. students — serving as primary or co-adviser to nine — and 37 master’s degree students, serving as primary or co-adviser to 18.
In his letter of support for the Research Award nomination, John S. Pallister said it’s no wonder that students seek Carn out as an adviser. Pallister, emeritus scientist with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory and former chief of the Volcano Disaster Assistance Program, said he points prospective graduate students in Carn’s direction when they seek a recommendation. “MTU is typically at the top of my list, largely because Dr. Carn is there,” he said. “Although best known for his work on volcanic
gas emissions, he also has a strong background in physical volcanology and magmatic processes.”
Praising his public outreach and contributions, Pallister said many others in the field of volcanology have learned to turn to Carn. “Put simply, Simon Carn is well-known in the community of volcano observatories as both a world-class volcanologist and a trusted adviser,” he said. “His soft-spoken manner, coupled with extensive knowledge, experience and a sensitivity to local customs makes him a valued partner, as is evident from his work during periods of unrest and eruption at volcanoes in the West Indies, Latin America, Iceland, Africa and Indonesia.”
Demonstrating a long-term commitment to sharing his work with fellow scientists and a broader audience, Carn is a regular contributor to NASA’s Earth Observatory educational website, and his expertise has been shared in Scientific American and National Geographic.
In a letter of support for Carn’s award nomination, David Pyle, Carn’s doctoral adviser at the University of Cambridge, said he’s kept up with Carn’s “prodigious outputs, both in academic journals, and his social media updates on emerging volcanic events.” He described how Carn’s Ph.D. work began on the island of Java, where Carn “covered hundreds of square miles to document the dozens of volcanic craters, cones and maars of the previously poorly known Lamongan Volcanic Field and learned to speak Bahasa Indonesia.” MM
Simon Carn
coloring page
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 October events by Tuesday, September 10 to: calendar@marquettemonthly.com.
end of august events
28 WEDNESDAY sunrise 7:05 a.m.; sunset 8:37 p.m.
Calumet
• Tapestry. Part of the Summer Concert Series 7:30 p.m. Calumet Theatre, 340 Sixth St. 906-337-2610 or calumettheatre.com.
Curtis
• Music in the Park. Featuring a fusion of Celtic folk, rock and pop by The Knockabouts. 6:30 p.m. Erickson
Center for the Arts, N9224 Saw-WaQuato St. 906-586-9974 or ericksoncenter.org.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Farm Stand. Shop for local produce. Snap/EBT, Senior Project Fresh and Food as Medicine accepted. 4:30 to 6 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• Skill Share. Botanica Quetzalli will present a plant class. 5:15 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenera-
Jim and Ray | Sept. 1, Up North Lodge / Sept. 14 , Kognisjon Bryggeri
tional Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• Adult Horror Book Club. This month’s nonfiction selection will be “All the Living and the Dead” by Hayley Campbell. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 3 to 5:30 p.m. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• All Booked Up. Elizabeth Peterson and Tia Trudgeon of “Upper Michigan Today,” along with library staff, will host an on-air, in-person book discussion of “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 9 a.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 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.
• Wednesday Night Market. Includes farmers, growers, food producers, and artisans. 5 to 8 p.m. 100 Block of Washington Street. mqtfarmersmarket.com.
Negaunee
• Drop-in Storytime. Children of all ages can listen to a story or two at this casual drop-in program hosted by Negaunee Public Library staff. 9 a.m. Miner’s Park, Maas Street and U.S.41. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary or 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Knitting Group. Those interested in crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and share with others. Coffee provided. 1:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Farmers and Crafters Market. Offering local farmers’ and artisans’ goods and creations. 4 to 7 p.m. Jackson Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
Copper Harbor
• Performances in the Park. Featuring Tapestry. A farmers market is also on site. 7 to 9 p.m. Donny Kilpela Memorial Park, 240 Gratiot St. 906289-4020.
Curtis
• The Stas Venglevski and Misha Litvin Duo. The duo features master accordionist Stas Venglevski and domra (mandolin) expert Misha Litvin. 7 p.m. The Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 906-586-9974 or ericksoncenter.org.
Gwinn
• Modeltown Farmers and Artisans Market. Featuring live music until 6 p.m. 3 to 7 p.m. Peter Nordeen Park, 115 N. Pine St. 906-361-4843 or modeltownmarket@gmail.com.
Ishpeming
• Weekly Volunteer Day. Volunteers will actively engage in farm activities, such as planting, weeding, watering and harvesting crops. All ages are welcome. 2 to 4 p.m. Partridge Creek Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org/volunteer.
• Summer Concert Series. Featuring Reverend Robert and Da Bones Man. Bring a chair. 7 p.m. Old Ish Park, Main Street.
L’Anse
• Lakefront Concert. Featuring the Chad Borgen Collective, a rock ’n’ roll country band. 7 p.m. Lakefront Park, Broad Street at the lake.
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.
Negaunee
• Walk and Read. This group will meet at the Negaunee Public Library and walk through Old Town while enjoying bookish conversations with other enthusiasts. Takes place pending weather conditions. 5 p.m. facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary or 906475-7700, ext. 18.
Norway
Chassell
• Life with a Team of Sled Dogs. Tom Bauer will discuss his experience living with a kennel of Alaskan Huskies and the activities that go along with it, including racing, touring and hosting the Mushing Club at Michigan Tech University. 7 p.m. Chassell Heritage Center, 42373 Hancock Ave. 906-5231155 or chassellhistory.org.
• Dickinson County Fair. Events include livestock shows, carnival rides, food, and more. Times and prices vary. Dickinson County Fairgrounds, N1476 US-8. dickinsoncountyfair.com.
30 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:07 a.m.; sunset 8:33 p.m.
Copper Harbor
• Copper Harbor Trails Fest. Activities include a family trail ride, yoga,
food and music. 4 to 8 p.m. Donny Kilpela Memorial Park. copperharbortrails.org.
Escanaba
• U.P. Steam and Gas Engine Show. This annual event will include machinery, exhibits, vendors and more. Youth, free; adults, $6. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. U.P. State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. N. upsteamandgasengine. org.
• Managing Finances: A Caregiver’s Guide (Online). Attorney Jennifer McKinley, a leading expert in elder law and financial planning, will help caregivers and family members plan and pay for care. 3 p.m. Online. upcap.trualta.com/login.
• Marquette Area Blues Fest Concert. This free show will feature performances from Flat Broke Blues Band and Ghost Town Blues Band. 6 p.m. Mattson Lower Harbor Park. marquetteareabluessociety.org.
Negaunee
• Building Storytime. Children ages three and older can listen to a story or two and be inspired to build with LEGOs and other blocks. Older youth are welcome to hang out quietly and build. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary or 906475-7700, ext. 18.
Norway
• Dickinson County Fair. Events include livestock shows, carnival rides, food, and more. Times and prices vary. Dickinson County Fairgrounds, N1476 US-8. dickinsoncountyfair.com.
31
Copper Harbor
• Copper Harbor Trails Fest. Activities include a cross country race, downhill race, mountain bike race, music and more.. Location and times of events vary. copperharbortrails. org.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to noon. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
• U.P. Steam and Gas Engine Show. This annual event will include machinery, exhibits, vendors and more. Youth, free; adults, $6. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. U.P. State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. N. upsteamandgasengine.org.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to noon. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Farmers Market. Includes farmers,
growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket. com.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Citizens Forum, Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Marquette Area Blues Fest. This annual festival will feature music by Polar Blues Band, Delta Swamp Buskers, Altered Five Blues Band, Mac Arnold & Plateful of Blues and Thornetta Davis. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Prices vary. Noon to 10 p.m. Mattson Lower Harbor Park, Lakeshore Blvd. marquetteareabluessociety.org.
Norway
• Dickinson County Fair. Events include livestock shows, carnival rides, food, and more. Times and prices vary. Dickinson County Fairgrounds, N1476 US-8. dickinsoncountyfair.com.
september events
01
Copper Harbor
• Copper Harbor Trails Fest. Activities include a 10K trail run, enduro races and music. Times and locations of events vary. copperharbortrails.org
Escanaba
• U.P. Steam and Gas Engine Show. This annual event will include machinery, exhibits, vendors and more. Youth, free; adults, $6. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. U.P. State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. N. upsteamandgasengine.org.
. Marquette
• Marquette Area Blues Fest. This annual festival will feature music by Tyler Dettloff, Fast Eddie/Billy Lark with guests, Jimmy Nick & Don’t Tell Mama, Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials and Rick Estrin & The Nightcats. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Prices vary. Noon to 10 p.m. Mattson Lower Harbor Park, Lakeshore Blvd. marquetteareabluessociety.org.
02 MONDAY
sunrise 7:11 a.m.; sunset 8:28 p.m.
Labor Day
Escanaba
• U.P. Steam and Gas Engine Show. This annual event will include machinery, exhibits, vendors and more. Youth, free; adults, $6. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
U.P. State Fairgrounds, 2401 12th Ave. N. upsteamandgasengine.org.
• Rock the Dock and Labor Day Celebration. The Delta County Labor Council will present the parade at noon, which will proceed along Ludington Street and end at the Municipal Dock where there will be food vendors, petting zoo and kids’ activities. Live music will be performed by Grand Design (’60s) at 1 p.m., Wingin’ It (’70s) at 3 p.m., and We Ain’t Saints (’80s and ’90s) at 5 p.m. A Golf Ball Drop will take place at 6:30 p.m. Municipal Dock, 179 Ludington St. deltami.org.
03 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:12 a.m.; sunset 8:26 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.
• “Carnegie Libraries in Michigan.” Presented by historian Dianna Stampfler. 5 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-7897323 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. 906-486-4381.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 5 p.m.; early bird games, 6:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906346-6000.
Marquette
• 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 your passwords. 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.
• 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.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Farm Stand. Shop for local produce. Snap/EBT, Senior Project Fresh and Food as Medicine accepted. 4:30 to 6 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• “Carnegie Libraries in Michigan.” Historian Dianna Stampfler from Promote Michigan will discuss the 61 Carnegie libraries that were built throughout the state in the early 1900s and the impact on their communities. 5:30 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 3 to 5:30 p.m. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Heritage Room Book Group. The group welcomes readers interested in a variety of contemporary fiction. This month’s selection will be “Women and Children First” by Alina Grabowski. 10 a.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4311 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.
• Aging U.P. Staff from Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice will discuss ways to improve decision making and memory. 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-2257760.
• Senior Visual Art Classes: Quilling with Diane Kribs-Mays. 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.
• League of Women Voters of Marquette County Meeting. All interested community members are welcome. Social time, 6:30 p.m.; meeting, 6:45 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. lwvmqtco@ gmail.com.
• Author Reading. Writer and poet Phillip Sterling will read from his recently published essay collection, “Lessons in Geography,” which explores how the geography of a place, the forests, shores and lakes of Michigan play a role in one’s education. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4322 or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Quilters As-
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. Days and hours vary. 215 Fifth St. 906-934-2346 or realpeoplemedia.org.
Curtis
• Erickson Center for the Arts–Waterfront Gallery.
- Vision between the Lakes, featuring landscape oil paintings by John Evans and blown and carved glass sculptures by Alex Fekete, will be on display through Sept. 5.
- 22 Egg-citing Bird Nests: An Exhibit by Helga Flower, a collection of watercolor paintings, is on display through Sept. 5.
The gallery also 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 Bay College’s permanent art collection, along with exhibits of local and national artists. Days and hours vary. Bay College, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• 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.
- 50 Years in the Making: Past | Present | Future, commemorating 50 years of the Bonifas, will be on display through Oct. 17 in the Powers Gallery.
- Artwork by the winner of the Bonifas
Featured Artist Award will be on display through Oct. 17 in the Studio Gallery. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 700 First Avenue South. 906786-3833 or bonifasarts.org.
Garden
• Village Artisans/Garden Gallery. The Gallery has approximately 50 consignors each year featuring paintings, photography, quilting, stained glass, woodwork, pottery, jewelry and more. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. 6367 State St. 906-644-2025 or villageartisansofgarden.org.
Hancock
• Finandia Art Gallery.
- The Folk School at Midsummer, featuring work of the folk school instructors and students, will be on display through Sept. 18. 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. Paintings by Randy Wakeham, will be on display Sept. 3 through the 30th. 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. 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.
Houghton
• The Rozsa Galleries.
- that thing between my teeth is my foot, featuring artwork by Douglas Degges, will be on display Sept. 13 through Nov. 2 with an artist reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on the 13th. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 to 8 p.m. Rozsa Center, 1400 Townsend Dr. mtu.edu/ rozsa.
Manistique
• Lake Effect Community Arts Center.
- Why Wood You?? A U.P. Woodworking Invitational, featuring creations by Jim Rutledge, Mike Olson, Kate Sirvio, Steve Promo and Len Fieber, will be on display through Sept. 30. Monday through Saturday, 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.
- Standing Still: Studio Portraits from the Upper Peninsula, featuring portraits taken in U.P. photo studios between 1890 and 1910 provided by the Jack Deo Collection, will be on display through Nov. 2.
- Across Time and Place, featuring multimedia approaches to interpreting and understanding place with work by Liz Ward and Robert Ziebell, will be on display through Dec. 12 with an artist reception and talk at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 26.
Monday through Wednesday, and Friday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.; Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Corner
Randy Wakeham | Cross Signal | Kerredge Gallery, Hancock
art galleries
of Seventh and Tracy streets. NMU. 906-227-1481 or nmu.edu/devos.
• The Gallery Marquette. Feaurting 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.
• Graci Gallery.
- Corvus Corax, a collaborative show inspired by black birds, crows and ravens, will be on display through Sept. 30. Featured artists include Emerson Graves, Lindsey Heiden, John Hubbard and Joseph Graci. Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 110 N. Third St. gracigallery.com.
• Huron Mountain Club Gallery.
- Wimmelbilder, by Elijah Haswell will be on display through Sept. 30. 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.
sociation Meeting. All skill levels are invited for socialization, program events and show and tell. Yearly membership fee, $20. 6:30 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. marquettequilters.org.
Negaunee
• In-person Storytime. Children of all ages can listen to stories, songs and rhymes. There may also be a craft. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Knitting Group. Those interested in crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and share with others. Coffee provided. 1:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Halloween Party Planners. Middle school students and their homeschool peers ages 10-13 will meet to plan the library’s Halloween Party. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Farmers and Crafters Market. Offering local farmers’ and artisans’ goods and creations. 4 to 7 p.m. Jack-
• Marquette Arts and Culture Center Deo Gallery.
- Alchemize: On Bodies and Clay, by Niikah Hatfield and Marissa Marquardson will be on display through Sept. 30. 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. Featuring 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.
• Wintergreen Hill Gallery and Gifts. Paintings by Frank Malette will be on display through Sept. 30 with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on the 5th. 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. Wood sculptures by Dan Ferrentino will be on
son Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
05 THURSDAY
sunrise 7:15 a.m.; sunset 8:22 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107.
• Knitting and Crochet Open 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.
Copper Harbor
• Performances in the Park. Featuring Lena Maude and Friends. A farmers market is also on site. 7 to 9 p.m. Donny Kilpela Memorial Park, 240 Gratiot St. 906-289-4020.
Gwinn
• Modeltown Farmers and Artisans Market. Featuring live music until 6
display through Sept. 30.
- A reception for the gallery’s student artist will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 17.
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.
p.m. 3 to 7 p.m. Peter Nordeen Park, 115 N. Pine St. 906-361-4843 or modeltownmarket@gmail.com.
Ishpeming
• Book Club. This month’s selection will be “The Keeper of Hidden Books” by Madeline Martin. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Senior Center, 121 Greenwood St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Weekly Volunteer Day. Volunteers will actively engage in farm activities, such as planting, weeding, watering and harvesting crops. All ages are welcome. 2 to 4 p.m. Partridge Creek Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org/volunteer.
• Graphic Novel Book Club. Students in fourth through eighth grade will discuss “Wingbearer” by Marjorie Liu. Snacks will be provided and new members are welcome. 4 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Summer Concert Series. Featuring Daydreamers. Bring a chair. 7 p.m. Old Ish Park, Main Street.
L’Anse
• Lakefront Concert. Featuring a
mix of favorites by Uncle Pete’s Red Hot Revue. 7 p.m. Lakefront Park, Broad Street at the lake.
Marquette
• 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 your passwords. 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.
06 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:16 a.m.; sunset 8:20 p.m.
Crystal Falls
• Brass Roots Trio. Travis Heath, Douglas Lundeen and Rosetta Senkus Bacon will perform. Students, $5; adults, $23. 7 p.m CDT. The Crystal Theatre, 304 Superior Ave. 906-8753208 or thecrystaltheatre.org.
Houghton
• 2024 Rozsa Soirèe featuring Gina Chavez. Gina Chávez will perform a blend of Latin pop music. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Backstage, 1400 Townsend Dr. mtu. universitytickets.com.
Marquette
• Music Appreciation Presentation. Featuring percussionist Britton-René Collins. Open to the public. 11 a.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu. edu/music.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St.
• Percussion Masterclass with Britton-René Collins. Open to the public. 1 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.edu/music.
• Sculpture Unveiling and Laser Light Show. The “Seven Grandfather Teachings” sculpture by indigenous artist Jason Quigno, a tribal citizen of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, will be dedicated in an unveiling ceremony open to the public. The large-scale stone sculpture embodies the seven teachings rooted in Anishinaabe culture, which are carved into locally quarried stones. A laser light show at 9:30 p.m. will be projected onto the ore dock, which will be visible from Mattson Lower Harbor Park. Ceremony, 5:30 p.m. Installation site, base of the new piers behind Hampton Inn, 461 S. Lakeshore Blvd. 906-2280472.
• Percussionist Britton-René Collins. Britton-René Collins is a grand prize winner of the 2022 Yamaha
Young Performing Artists Competition and the 2021 Chicago International Music Competition and has demonstrated a passion for creating social change through her music. NMU students and youth 18 and younger, free; general public, $12. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.universitytickets.com.
07 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:17 a.m.; sunset 8:18 p.m.
Copper Harbor
• Chili Cookoff. Bring your chili in a crockpot or cornbread in a pan for a judging competition. Karaoke at The Mariner North to follow. Food drop off, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.;Judging, 4 p.m.; Karaoke, 8 p.m. Donny Kilpela Memorial Park. copperharbor.org.
Calumet
• The Red Jacket Jamboree. Real People Media will present this live radio show featuring stories and music that celebrate the Keweenaw. Featuring vocalist Julie McIntosh. Members and students, $20; general public, $25. 7 p.m. Keweenaw Storytelling Center, 215 Fifth St. redjacketjamboree.org.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to noon. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
• 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.
• Back to School Open House. Presented by Friends of the Escanaba Public Library. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
• LEGO Club. This month’s theme is “Back to School.” 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323.
Ishpeming
• Silent Book Club. Adults are invited to read silently for one hour followed by time to socialize and talk about books. Pajamas or loungewear are welcome and snacks will be provided. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to noon. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
• NSDAR Meeting. This is the monthly meeting of the Onagomingkway Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Please bring a dish to pass. Noon. For location, call 906226-7836.
Marquette
• Farmers Market. Includes farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket. com.
• Art on the Mountain. In addition to the art fair, there will be live music, vendors, food and drinks, lift rides and scenic hikes, disc golf and family fun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Marquette Mountain, 4501 M-553. 906-2251155 or marquettemountain.com.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Citizens Forum, Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Pottery Demonstration. Participants can see a pottery wheel demonstration and will have the opportunity to test their skill at bowl making, either with the wheel or by hand. Younger visitors can create pinch pots. Pottery will be available for sale with proceeds benefiting the nature center. Suggested donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. Noon to 3:30 p.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. moosewood.org.
Sands
• Archery Open House. Intended for prospective members, hunters and non-hunters. The professionally designed walk-through range features 3D and bag targets of multiple distances, as well as a practice range. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Deertrack Archery, off Co. Rd. 553 between Marquette County Fairgrounds and UPAWS. deertrackbowhunters.com.
08 SUNDAY
sunrise 7:19 a.m.; sunset 8:16 p.m.
Marquette
• Art on the Mountain. In addition to the art fair, there will be live music, vendors, food and drinks, lift rides and scenic hikes, disc golf and family fun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Marquette Mountain, 4501 M-553. 906-2251155 or marquettemountain.com.
Rock
• Senior Dance. Music will be performed by Country Express. The dance will raise money for the Rock Senior Corporation. $7. 1 to 4 p m. Rock Senior Center, 3892 W. Mapleridge 37 Rd.
09
up for a library card. 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Forsyth Township Library, 180 W. Flint St. 906-346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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 Fall Kick-off: A Strong Finnish Heritage and Presence in the U.P. Local resident Tanya Stanaway, a native of Finland, will discuss the strong Finnish heritage and presence in the U.P. and perform Finnish music. 1 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Main St. 906-226-9350, 906362-1956 or 906-241-9800.
• Senior Theatre Experience: Monthly Theatre Workshop and Discussion. Free for City of Marquette and neighboring township residents ages 50 and older. 4 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Marquette Choral Society Signup. Members can register for the fall semester. Scholarships are available. Registration, 6:30 p.m. Rehearsal, 7 p.m. Choral Room, Thomas Fine Arts Building, NMU. marquettechoralsociety.org.
• Northwords and Music: Surrealism Show. Writer B.G. Bradley and his friends will present an evening of music, stories, poetry and skits, featuring poet Marty Achatz, musicians Linda Smith and Seamus Collins (Big Lake Acoustic), actress Jacque Love, and guest stars The Clarks. This event will also be live streamed. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264322 or pwpl.info.
Negaunee
• Book Sale. All sales are by donation. Hosted by the Friends of the Negaunee Public Library. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lawn, Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• 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.
10 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:21 a.m.; sunset 8:12 p.m.
Gwinn
• Library Open House. Guests can meet the library board members, enjoy refreshments, tour the library, get information about services and sign
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. The group will discuss “All That Is Mine I Carry With Me” by William Landay. 7 p.m. Up North Lodge, 215 S. Co. Rd. 557. 906-346-3433 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. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 5 p.m.; early bird games, 6:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906346-6000.
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 will discuss “In Winter’s Kitchen” by Beth Dooley. 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.com.
• Lake Superior Knitters. Students eight and older are invited to visit or join the group to learn a new art form. The group mentors all age groups and skill levels. 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. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Comic Creators 2.0. Youth in second through fifth grades can write, illustrate and publish their own graphic novel. Together with other graphic novel and comic book fans,
participants can also 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.
• Craft Magic Series: Punch Needle Magic with Lydia Taylor. Fiber artist Lydia Taylor will teach basic punch needle skills and participants will create their own handmade project. Starter kits will be provided. Registration required. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 or visit pwpl.info.
11 WEDNESDAY
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Farm Stand. Shop for local produce. Snap/EBT, Senior Project Fresh and Food as Medicine accepted. 4:30 to 6 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• Crochet Club. Gather with fellow crafters. 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.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 3 to 5:30 p.m. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to children aged 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.
• Fandom Fun: Squishmallow Party. Youth of all ages can bring a squishmallow friend to enjoy a photo shoot, Squishmallow selfies, friendship pins, scavenger hunt and more. Squishmallows will stay overnight at the library for a special sleepover. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 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.
• Recognizing Conservation Champions. Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance board member Jeff Towner will highlight several men and women who were key players in bringing various species back from the brink of extinction. 7 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-362-4811.
Negaunee
• In-person Storytime. Children of all ages can listen to stories, songs and rhymes. There may also be a craft. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Knitting Group. Those interested in crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and share with others. Coffee provided. 1:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Halloween Party Planners. Middle school students and their homeschool peers ages 10 to 13 will meet to plan the library’s Halloween Party. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Farmers and Crafters Market. Offering local farmers’ and artisans’ goods and creations. 4 to 7 p.m. Jackson Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
12 THURSDAY
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107.
• Knitting and Crochet Open 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.
Crystal Falls
• U.P. Notable Books Club (Zoom). The guest will be Gregory M. Lusk, author of “The Great Seney Fire: A History of the Walsh Ditch Fire of 1976”. 7 p.m. EDT, 6 p.m. CDT. Via Zoom. 906-875-3344 or egathu@ crystalfallslibrary.org.
Curtis
• A Trip Around the World with
Rikki Neyer. Rikki Neyer will offer her blend of classical opera and storytelling by performing arias and Art songs in Italian, French, Latin, English and German. Ticket prices vary. 7 p.m. The Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. mynorthtickets.com.
Gwinn
• Modeltown Farmers and Artisans Market. Featuring live music until 6 p.m. 3 to 7 p.m. Peter Nordeen Park, 115 N. Pine St. 906-361-4843 or modeltownmarket@gmail.com.
Ishpeming
• Weekly Volunteer Day. Volunteers will actively engage in farm activities, such as planting, weeding, watering and harvesting crops. All ages are welcome. 2 to 4 p.m. Partridge Creek Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org/volunteer.
L’Anse
• Lakefront Concert. Featuring music from the Celtic world by the Knockabouts. 7 p.m. Lakefront Park, Broad Street at the lake.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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 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.
• 19th Annual Cemetery Walk: What’s in a Name? Local poets, w
• Marquette Poets Circle. Learn about Billy Bushy, Jeremiah Compeau and John D. Mangum who all had road named after them. $5. Self-guided tour, 1 p.m. Guided tour, 6 p.m. Holy Cross Cemetery, 1400 Wright St. (906) 226-3571.
• Second Thursday Creativity Series. This month’s theme is “Back to School.” Guests can enjoy hands-on craft activities and free Culver’s frozen custard. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum, 123 W. Baraga Ave. 906-226-3911 or upchildrensmuseum.org.
• Marquette Art Muses Meeting. Open to the public. 5:30 p.m. The Courtyards, 1110 Champion St. lbuckmar2@yahoo.com or 906-399-9824.
• Yarn Winders Fiber Guild of Marquette. 6 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St.
• NCLL: Ways and Days to Vote. A panel of leaders from the Marquette County League of Women Voters (LWV) will discuss new Michigan voting laws and voting schedule. NCLL members, $5; non-members,
$10. 6:30 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Main St. 906-362-6880 or 906-458-5408.
• “Bridging Michigan: Building Understanding Through Poetry.” Presented by Michigan Humanities, this event will feature Michigan Poet Laureate Nandi Corner and U.P. Poet Laureate Dr. Beverly Matherne in a conversation moderated by Dr. Shawnrece Campbell, assistant vice president of diversity and inclusion at NMU. 7 p.m. Northern Center, NMU. 517-372-7770.
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.
• Drop-in Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session is designed to stimulate a child’s senses and foster cognitive development through themed activity stations. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Building Club. Youth ages five and older will discuss a topic that will be the focus of their creations and then have time to build with blocks, including LEGO bricks. 4:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
13 FRIDAY
sunrise 7:25 a.m.; sunset 8:06 p.m.
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. 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 are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Docu Cinema: “Facing Suicide.” Shown as part of Suicide Awareness Month, this documentary shines a light of one of America’s most pressing mental health crises and provides hope and help for those at risk and their loved ones. Not rated. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 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 can connect and build projects with the library’s LEGO bricks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Hockey Night. The Detroit Red Wings Alumni will take on Yoopers United as a fundraiser for United Way of Marquette County. Children 12 and younger, $15; adults, $25. 7 p.m. Berry Events Center, NMU. nmu.universitytickets.com.
14 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:26 a.m.; sunset 8:04 p.m.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to noon. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Books and Badges Storytime. Chief Chad Radabaugh of the Ishpeming Police Department will present a reading of “If You Give a Pig a Party” by Laura Numeroff and participate in party festivities. Children will receive a free copy of the book. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to noon. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Farmers Market. Includes farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket. com.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Citizens Forum, Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays geared towards babies through preschool-age children with a loving adult will be offered. Older siblings welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• American Patchwork Quartet. Prices vary, $18 to $22. 7:30 p.m. Forest Roberts Theater, NMU. tickets. nmu.edu.
Skandia
• Tailgate Party. There will be food, vendors, kid’s games, a bucket raffle and live music from Big Lake Acoustic from 1 to 3 p.m. The South County Fund Committee will sell pies beginning at 11 a.m. until gone. This
fundraiser will benefit West Branch Township Recreation Areas. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. West Branch Township Hall, 1016 Co. Rd. 545 N.
15 SUNDAY sunrise 7:28 a.m.; sunset 8:02 p.m.
Gwinn
• Country Dance. Entertainment is TBD. All are welcome. $10. 1 to 4 p.m. K.I. Sawyer Heritage Air Museum, 402 Third St. 906-346-2251.
Iron River
• Northwoods Music Collaborative Concert. Musicians Stas Venglevski and Tatyana Krasnobaeva will perform. Pay What You Can ticketing. 2 p.m. CDT. Windsor Center, 612 Adams St. premobette@gmail.com.
Marquette
• Clay Flower Frogs (Day 1). Participants will make air dry clay flower frogs to display cut flowers. As this project involves drying time, this program will be offered in two parts. Participants are not required to attend the second session, but can finish projects at home once dry. Intended for ages 10 and older, but all are welcome. Suggested donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. 2 p.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. To register by Sept. 13, moosewoodnc@gmail.com.
vorites, classical and original compositions. 7 p.m. The Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. ericksoncenter.org.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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.
• Marquette Choral Society Signup. Members can register for the fall semester. Scholarships are available. Registration, 6:30 p.m. Rehearsal, 7 p.m. Choral Room, Thomas Fine Arts Building, NMU. marquettechoralsociety.org.
• The Knockabouts. Local folk band The Knockabouts will perform Celtic music and songs. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 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.
17 TUESDAY
Curtis
• With Love, from Russia. Accordionist Stas Venglevski and dulcimer virtuoso Tatyana Krasnobaeva will perform traditional Russian folk fa-
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.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and play
Marquette County Hockey Night | September 14 | Marquette
Photo by Gerhard Crous via Unsplash
time will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
• Adult Book Club. The group will discuss “Whalefall” by Daniel Kraus. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 5 p.m.; early bird games, 6:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906346-6000.
Marquette
• Bay Cliff Workday. NCLL members will help close up Bay Cliff Health Camp with tasks suiting all activity levels. Lunch will be served in the “Big House.” 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Carpool location, Target parking lot by Dairy Queen. 906-235-8582 or susanholliday83@gmail.com.
• 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.
• 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 your passwords. 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.
• 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. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Muggles for Potter Grades 3-6. Young wizards in third through sixth grades will be sorted into their house, and make wands and house badges. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Artists and Their Art: Michelangelo—“Scultore”. Art historian Ellen Longsworth will focus on the sculpture of Michelangelo. 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. For meeting information, pwpl.info.
18 WEDNESDAY
sunrise 7:31 a.m.; sunset 7:56 p.m.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Farm Stand. Shop for local produce. Snap/EBT, Senior Project Fresh and Food as Medicine accepted. 4:30 to 6 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• Adult Book Club. The group will discuss “Whalefall” by Daniel Kraus. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 3 to 5:30 p.m. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to children aged 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.
• NCLL: Lunch and Learn. NCLL’s Program Planning team is exploring the idea of hosting monthly lunches to learn about Marquette and NCLL events, and for participants to offer ideas for future programs. 11:30 a.m. Big Boy Restaurant, 1950 US41 W. To register, 906-458-5408 or csteinha@nmu.edu.
• 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: Quilling with Diane Kribs-Mays. 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.
• Fandom Fun: Upcycled Art. Youth of all ages will upcycle materials to make unique creations. Supplies will be provided. 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. Members, visitors and guests are encouraged to attend. 6 p.m. Family Search Center, 350 Cherry Creek Rd., Harvey. marquettecountymigeniesociety@gmail.com or lakesuperiorroots.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
• In-person Storytime. Children of all ages can listen to stories, songs and rhymes. There may also be a craft. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Knitting Group. Those interested in crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and share with others. Coffee provided. 1:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Discover E-Bikes Clinic and Trail Ride. This E-Bike clinic and other wheeled bikes is focused toward seniors. Demonstration bikes will be available to try. Attendees should bring their own bike, regular or e-bike for a group ride. $5 suggested donation. Registration, 1:45 p.m. Clinic, 2 p.m. Pavilion, Jackson Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
• Old Town Presentation. Virginia Paulson will present a collection of Old Town photos and then lead the group on a barrier-free walk where Jim Thomas will continue the discussion. Registration, 1:45 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Presentation, 2 p.m. Negaunee Senior Center, 410 Jackson St.
• Halloween Party Planners. Middle school students and their homeschool peers ages 10 to13 will meet to plan the library’s Halloween Party. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Farmers and Crafters Market. Offering local farmers’ and artisans’ goods and creations. 4 to 7 p.m. Jackson Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
19 THURSDAY
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107.
• Knitting and Crochet Open 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.
Chassell
• Trip on the DSS&A from Calumet to Mackinaw City in the 1910s. Presented by railroad historian Mark Worrall. 7 p.m. Chassell Heritage Center, 42373 Hancock Ave. 906-5231155 or chassellhistory.org.
Gwinn
• Modeltown Farmers and Artisans Market. Featuring live music until 6 p.m. 3 to 7 p.m. Peter Nordeen Park, 115 N. Pine St. 906-361-4843 or modeltownmarket@gmail.com.
Houghton
• Sharon McMahon. Known on social media as “America’s Government Teacher,” Sharon McMahon will speak on educational and non-partisan governmental topics as part of Constitution Week. 7:30 p.m. Rozsa Center, 1400 Townsend Dr. For free tickets, mtu.universitytickets.com.
Ishpeming
• Weekly Volunteer Day. Volunteers will actively engage in farm activities, such as planting, weeding, watering and harvesting crops. All ages are welcome. 2 to 4 p.m. Partridge Creek Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org/volunteer.
• 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.
• Mill Creek Live and Learn: Matter of Balance. Learn about an upcoming class focused on the importance of balance and preventing falls. 2 p.m. Mill Creek Clubhouse, 1728 Windstone Dr. 906-225-7760.
• Graphic Novel Book Club. Students in fourth through eighth grade will discuss “Bad Sister” by Charise Mericle Harper. Snacks will be provided and new members are welcome.
4 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Great Lakes Great Books Club. Students in fourth and fifth grade will discuss “My Head Has a Bellyache: And More Nonsense for Mischievous Kids and Immature Grown-Ups,” a collection of funny children’s poetry, by Chris Harris. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Fantasy Book Club. The group will discuss “A Fate Inked in Blood” by Danielle L. Jensen. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• 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 your passwords. 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.
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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 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 can spend time with other Pokémon fans, trade cards and play the game. Trading and games will be youth-led. 4:30 p.m. Youth Services Makerspace, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Music on Third. Local musicians will perform along the sidewalks of Third Street. 6 to 8 p.m. downtownmarquette.org.
• NCLL: Black Americans in the Upper Peninsula. Dr. Russ Magnaghi, NMU professor emeritus and author of “Black Americans in the Upper Peninsula,” will explore the history of Black Americans in the U.P. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-337-6441 or 248-464-3828.
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.
• Drop-in Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session is designed to stimulate a child’s senses and foster cognitive development through themed activity stations. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Building Club. Youth ages five and older will discuss a topic that will be the focus of their creations and then have time to build with blocks, including LEGO bricks. 4:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
Presented by the Carnegie Museum. Suggested donation, $10. 7 p.m. Orpheum Theater, 426 Quincy St. history@cityofhoughton.com.
Ishpeming
• Tai Chi Class. Certified instructor Irina Tarbeeva will lead this class for beginning and intermediate levels of practice. Intended for adults. 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.
• Global Cinema: “Like Water for Chocolate.” Director Alfonso Arau tells the story of Tita and Pedro in a small Mexican village, which combines history, magical realism and food. Rated R. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 or visit 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.
• Wildcat Welcome. Part of NMU’s Homecoming. 1 to 4 p.m. Northern Center, NMU. nmu.edu/homecoming.
• LEGO Club. LEGO enthusiasts can connect and build projects with the library’s LEGO bricks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• NMU Homecoming Parade. The route begins on Third Street at Fair Avenue, turns left on Hewitt Avenue, then down Front Street toward the Superior Dome. 5:30 p.m.
• NMU 125th Celebration Outdoor Concert. Featuring country duo Maddie and Tae. 6:30 p.m. Behind the NMU Superior Dome.
21 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:35 a.m.; sunset 7:50 p.m.
Big Bay
• Fall Fest. The event will include local vendors, food trucks, raffles, games, bounce houses, live music and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Charles E. Draver Park. bigbaystewardship.org.
20 FRIDAY sunrise 7:34 a.m.; sunset 7:52 p.m.
Hancock
• An Evening of U.P. Songs by U.P. Musicians. Featuring Erik Koskinen.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to noon. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market.
Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to noon. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Farmers Market. Includes farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket. com.
• Golden Wildcat Brunch. Celebrating alumni from the class of 1974 and prior on the 50th anniversary of their NMU graduation. 9:30 a.m. Northern Center ballrooms, NMU. nmu.edu/ homecoming.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Citizens Forum, Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Teddy Bear Clinic. Led by students from the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, kids can take a stuffie or baby doll friend through a series of stations to receive various medical treatments. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264323 or pwpl.info.
• Historical Campus Tour. Led by Dan Truckey, director of the Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center. Part of NMU’s Homecoming. 11 a.m. Meet at the Carillon Towers outside of the Northern Center. nmu.edu/homecoming.
• Tailgate Party. There will be food and refreshments, kids bounce houses, yard games and music. The party is free and open to the public. Part of NMU’s Homecoming. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Behind the Superior Dome (Lot 55 and the adjacent grassy area). nmu.edu/homecoming.
• NMU Alumni Meet-ups. Gatherings will be organized by decade and take place from 6 to 9 p.m.: 1970s and prior at the Holiday Inn; 1980s at the Wooden Nickel; 1990s at Breakers Roadhouse; and 2000s to present at DIGs. nmu.edu/homecoming.
• 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 one-hour program based on child-safety best practices. 3 p.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. moosewood.org.
22 SUNDAY sunrise 7:37 a.m.; sunset 7:48 p.m.
hayrides by MSU to view the U.P. Research and Extension Center. Sponsored by Alger County Communities That Care (AC3). 3 to 7 p.m. Michigan State University (MSU) North Barn, N5431 Rock River Rd. 906-2022244 or algerctc.org.
Marquette
• Beautiful Bog Slog. Attendees on this ecology tour through the Presque Isle bog will learn about northern bog plants, how to identify different U.P. species of trees, the fauna of U.P. bogs and how we coexist with these ecosystems. Intended age range is 12 years and older, but all are welcome. Suggested donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Meet at the MooseWood parking lot at the Shiras Pool Building or catch up on the bog trail. To register, moosewoodnc@gmail.com.
• Clay Flower Frogs (Day 2). Participants will complete their air dry clay flower frogs. They are not required to attend this second session, but can finish projects at home with provided instructions. Intended for ages 10 and older, but all are welcome. Suggested donation, $5 per child or $10 per family. 2 p.m. MooseWood Nature Center, Shiras Pool Building at Presque Isle Park. To register by Sept. 13, moosewoodnc@gmail.com.
23 MONDAY
sunrise 7:38 a.m.; sunset 7:46 p.m.
gion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906346-6000.
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.
• 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 your passwords. 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.
Chatham
• Community Barn Dance. This celebration of Alger County will feature square dancing with caller Jo Foley and music by Granny Fox and the Farm Hands Band. The event will include cornhole, kids’ corner, pie and cake auction, Morris Dancers, and
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Bluesday Tuesday Concert. This performance is sponsored by the Marquette Area Blues Society. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264322 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.
24
TUESDAY
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.
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. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 5 p.m.; early bird games, 6:30 p.m. American Le-
• NCLL: Eagles Nest Community Forest Hike No. 1. Led by retired biologist Beverly Braden, the trail has a 1,000-foot relatively narrow boardwalk, which is not suitable for those with balance issues. Sign up for Tuesday or Thursday hike (not both). NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 10:30 a.m. Eagle’s Nest parking lot, off M-550. 906-475-4252 or bbraden@consultant.com.
• All Booked Up. Library staff Marty and Andrea will discuss the group hosted by WLUC-TV6’s “Upper Michigan Today.” Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 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.
• Lake Superior Knitters. Students eight and older are invited to visit or join the group to learn a new art form. The group mentors all age groups and skill levels. 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. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-8655.
• Jr. Explorers. Youth in kindergarten through second grade will learn about animals and fun facts. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
Community Barn Dance | September 22 | Chatham
Photo courtesy of Linda Remsburg
Big Bay
• Big Bay Lighthouse. Big Bay Lighthouse is an active aid to navigation monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard. The light is the brightest on Lake Superior and provides a beam that is visible 20 nautical miles. Guided tours offered Sundays at noon and 2 p.m. through the 2nd. $12. 3 Lighthouse Rd. 906-345-9957.
Calumet
• Copper Country Firefighters History Museum. View displays dedicated to the history of fire fighting in the Copper Country, including photo exhibits, fire trucks and equipment dating to the 1850s. Ages 16 and younger, free; ages 17 and older, $5. Monday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Closes for the seaosn, Sept. 6. 327 Sixth St. 906-281-8822.
• Coppertown USA Mining Museum. View exhibits relative to the copper mining industry and community life. The museum is a Keweenaw National Historical Park Heritage Site. Children five and younger, free; children ages six to 15, $2; adults, $4. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 25815 Red Jacket Rd. 906-337-4354 or uppermichigan.com/ coppertown.
• 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.
Caspian
• Iron County Historical Museum. The Iron County Museum is one of the largest outdoor museum complexes in the U.P. and is the designated Log Cabin Capital of Michigan. Exhibits include the Carrie Jacobs-Bond House, Stager Depot, St. Mary’s Church, Toti’s Tavern, Pioneer School House, Giovanelli Studio and Gallery, and Lee LeBlanc Memorial Art Gallery. Children five and younger, free; students, $10; adults, $15. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CDT. 100 Brady Ave. 906-2652617 or ironcountymuseum.org.
Copper Harbor
• Fort Wilkins State Park. Built in 1844, this fort is a well-preserved 19th-century military post and lighthouse complex. Through museum exhibits, audio-visual programs and costumed interpretation, visitors can explore the daily routine of military service, experience the hardships of frontier isolation and discover another era. Park store, bookstore, concession stand and campsites are on site. $17 per car, per day for Michigan
residents, $9 for nonresidents. 8:30 a.m. to dusk. US-41 (one mile east of Copper Harbor). 906-289-4215 or michigan.gov/historicfortwilkins.
Eagle Harbor
• Eagle Harbor Life Saving Museum. View displays of early wooden rescue boats, surfboats, lifecars and more. Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. End of Marina Road. keweenawhistory.org.
• Eagle Harbor Light Station Museum and Lighthouse. The original lighthouse was built in 1851, which was replaced by the present red brick structure in 1871. The U.S. Coast Guard continues to operate the light at the top of the tower as an active navigational aid. Children 16 and younger and KCHS members, free; adults, $8. Daily, noon to 5 p.m. 670 Lighthouse Rd. keweenawhistory. org.
Eagle River
• Eagle River Museum. The museum focuses on four themes: the Cliff Mine, the town of Eagle River, the town and mine of Phoenix, and the Crestview amusement area. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. M-26. keweenawhistory.org
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.
Garden
• Fayette Historic Townsite. This site was once one of the Upper Peninsula’s most productive iron smelting operations. A town of nearly 500 residents grew up around two blast furnaces, a large dock and several charcoal kilns. It now includes a visitor center, museum exhibits, a 26-station walking tour and a scale model of the original townsite. $17 per car, per day for Michigan residents, $9 for nonresidents. Daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 14785 II Road. 906-644-2603 or michigan. gov/mhc/museums/fayette.
Grand Marais
• Lightkeeper’s House Museum. Step back in time to the early 1900s and discover the life of the early lightkeepers. Operated by the Grand Marais Historical Society. Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. On Coast
Guard Point next to the inner range light. grandmaraismichigan.com/ historicalsociety.
• Old Post Office Museum. The history of Grand Marais is on display, from the earliest peoples to the present day. A memorial rose garden is at the rear of the museum overlooking the water. Operated by the Grand Marais Historical Society. Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lake Avenue. grandmaraismichigan.com/historicalsociety.
• Pickle Barrel House Museum. This 16-foot-high barrel has been restored to its condition as a cottage, built for author and illustrator William Donahey, who created the Teenie Weenie characters. Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Northeast corner of Lake and Randolph streets. grandmaraismichigan.com/ historicalsociety.
Greenland
• Adventure Mining Company. The mine opened in 1850 and remains one of the best-preserved sites of its time. Although the mine closed in 1920, many of the shafts are still open for touring. Tours range from surface walking tours to underground rappelling down a mineshaft. Prices vary. Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. 200 Adventure Ave. 906883-3371 or adventureminetours. com.
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
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. Daily, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 49750 US-41. 906-4823101 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. Message in a Bottle, featuring artifacts long buried beneath Houghton’s streets that were found during excavations in 2021; and Celebrate the Lift Bridge, which includes building activities and the 1960s-era video about building the Lift Bridge. Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 4 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
Steam
Adventure Mine Company | Greenland
Photo by Carrie Usher
25 WEDNESDAY
sunrise 7:40 a.m.; sunset 7:42 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m.
Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107.
• Knitting and Crochet Open Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and en-
museums
(continued from page 91)
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 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
• Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum. View local historical artifacts of miners and mines, past and present, safety equipment, blasting and diamond drilling equipment and more. Guided tours of the tunnels are available. Prices vary. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 501 W. Euclid St. 906-485-1882 or cliffsshaftminemuseum.com.
• Ishpeming Area Historical Society Museum. Information and displays about the legends of Ishpeming–John Voelker, Kelly Johnson and Glenn Seaborg–early city documents, “Anatomy of a Murder,” Gossard artifacts, military uniforms, VASA and other organizations, the Blue Notes Drum and Bugle Corps and more. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gossard Building, 308 Cleveland Ave., Suite 305. ishpeminghistory.org.
• 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
joy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Ishpeming
• Farm Stand. Shop for local produce. Snap/EBT, Senior Project Fresh
and Food as Medicine accepted. 4:30 to 6 p.m. Partridge Creek Farm’s Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org.
• Adult Horror Book Club. The group will discuss “Boys in the Valley” by Philip Fracasi. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
L’Anse
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.
Lake Linden
• Houghton County Historical Museum. Exhibits include local Copper Country mining, logging and cultural history. Outdoor exhibits include a working Calumet & Hecla Mining Company train. Admission by donation. Daily, noon to 4 p.m. 53102 M-26. 906-296-4121 or houghtonhistory.org.
Marquette
• Baraga Educational Center and Museum. View artifacts and tools used by Venerable Bishop Baraga. Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment. 615 S. Fourth St. 906-227-9117.
• Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center.
- Northern Tapestry: 125 Years of Stories, will be on display through Feb. 1, 2025. 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 Maritime Museum. Exhibits on shipwrecks in Marquette and Lake Superior, early life-saving and U.S. Coast Guard, the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and the Henry B. Smith, and more. Guided tours of the Marquette Lighthouse are available. Prices vary. Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 300 N.
Lakeshore Blvd. 906-226-2006 or mqtmaritimemuseum.com.
• Marquette Regional History Center.
- 50 Years of Guts Frisbee in Marquette, which tells the story of Guts Frisbee from its origins in the Keweenaw Peninsula in the late 1950s to its inclusion in the World Flying Disc Federation, will be on display through Sept. 7.
- School Days: Educating Marquette County, exploring the educational history of Marquette County, will be on display Sept. 23 through Jan. 4, 2025.
-The museum also includes interactive displays as well as regional history exhibits. Youth 12 and younger, $2; students, $3; seniors, $6; adults, $7. 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. 906-226-3571 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.
Michigamme
• Michigamme Historical Museum.
The museum has a collection of more than 125 years of history through artifacts, antiques and memorabilia, including the “Anatomy of a Murder” display. The museum also has an exhibit devoted to the Ford story and a 1900 steamer on display. Guided tours or special showings by appointment. Daily, noon to 5 p.m. 110 W. Main St. 906-323-9016 or 906-3236608, or michigammetownship.com/ michigamme-museum.
Mohawk
• The Delaware Mine. Self-guided tours of veins of copper exposed in the walls of the mine, as well as indoor and outdoor train displays. Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7804 Delaware Rd. 906289-4688 or delawareminetours.com.
Munising
• Alger County Historical Society
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 3 to 5:30 p.m. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays will be offered for newborns to children aged 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.
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. Michigan Recreation Passport required for parking. Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 73 Forge Rd. 906-475-7857.
Painesdale
• Painesdale Mine and Shaft Inc. Tours of the ground level are free and visitors can see the hoist house, the captain’s office and the ground levels of the shaft house. Guides can provide interpretive information. Private tours can be arranged online. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. 42634 Second St. 906369-5358 or painesdaleminshaft.com.
Phoenix
• Phoenix Church. Originally built in 1858 and located in the town of Cliff, the museum was dismantled and reassembled in its current location in 1899. The last mass was held in 1957. Daily, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Junction of US-41 and M-26. keweenawhistory. org.
South Range
• Cooper Range Historical Museum. Exhibits recreate life from the early 1900s to the mid-1950s of the immigrants who built the towns and villages of the area. Collections include photographs, books and artifacts. The museum is a Keweenaw National Historic Site. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 3 p.m. 44 Trimountain Ave. 906-482-6125.
MM
• 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 will discuss “The Demon of Unrest” by Erik Larson. 2 p.m. Conference Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4311 or refdesk@pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Thomas the Train. Fans of Thomas the Train and Friends can check in at the train station, discover hidden trains, paint a train picture and more. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Memorial Service. Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice will host this annual service to honor those who have passed away in hospice care during the last year. Open to all community members who are grieving a loss. 6:30 p.m. Chapel, D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans, 425 Fisher St. To add a loved one’s name, call 906-2257760.
• 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
• All Booked Up: On Air. The gorup will discuss “The Mystery Guest” by Nita Prose. 9 a.m. WLUC-TV6 Studio, 177 US-41 E. 906-226-4322 or pwpl. info.
• In-person Storytime. Children of all ages can listen to stories, songs and rhymes. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Knitting Group. Those interested in crocheting, knitting and other fiber arts are welcome to bring their projects and share with others. 1:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
• Halloween Party Planners. Middle school students and their homeschool peers ages 10 to 13 will meet to plan the library’s Halloween Party. Snacks will be provided. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Farmers and Crafters Market. Offering local farmers’ and artisans’ goods and creations. 4 to 7 p.m. Jackson Mine Park, 199 Tobin St.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
26 THURSDAY sunrise 7:42 a.m.; sunset 7:40 p.m.
Houghton
• Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit (UPAS). The summit will educate attendees how to better serve, attract and include individuals with disabilities in their organizations and communities. Presented by the Accessible Keweenaw Initiative and the Keweenaw Community Foundation’s Joe Freed Empowerment Fund. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MTU, 1400 Townsend Dr. visitkeweenaw.com/up-accessibility-summit.
Ishpeming
• Weekly Volunteer Day. Volunteers will actively engage in farm activities, such as planting, weeding, watering and harvesting crops. All ages are welcome. 2 to 4 p.m. Partridge Creek Intergenerational Farm, 550 Cleveland Ave. 906-376-4171 or partridgecreekfarm.org/volunteer.
Marquette
• 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 your passwords. 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.
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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: Eagles Nest Community Forest Hike No. 2. Led by retired biologist Beverly Braden, the trail has a 1,000-foot relatively narrow boardwalk, which is not suitable for those with balance issues. Sign up for Tuesday or Thursday hike (not both). NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 10:30 a.m. Eagle’s Nest parking lot, off M-550. 906-475-4252 or bbraden@consultant.com.
• 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.
• Marquette Rug Hookers Meeting. Those interested in the art of rug and art hooking can gather for technique and resource sharing, instruction, show and tell, and fellowship. Participants may bring dinner. 4 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-360-8700.
• Friends of the PWPL Fall Used Book Sale Presale. $5. 5 to 8 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2289510.
• 1980s Fundraiser. This fundraising event will include nostalgic memorabilia, food, ’80s trivia and a costume contest. Music will be provided by Rusty Bowers. Ticket prices vary. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Marquette Regional
History Center, 145 W. Spring St. 906226-3571 or marquettehistory.org.
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.
• Drop-in Playtime. This one-hour, drop-in play session is designed to stimulate a child’s senses and foster cognitive development through themed activity stations. 11 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Building Club. Youth ages five and older will discuss a topic that will be the focus of their creations and then have time to build with blocks, including LEGO bricks. 4:30 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
27 FRIDAY
Houghton
• Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit (UPAS). The summit will educate attendees how to better serve, attract and include individuals with disabilities in their organizations and communities. Presented by the Accessible Keweenaw Initiative and the Keweenaw Community Foundation’s Joe Freed Empowerment Fund. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. MTU, 1400 Townsend Dr. visitkeweenaw.com/up-accessibility-summit.
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. 10 a.m. to noon. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Friends of the PWPL Fall Used Book Sale. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-9510.
• 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.
• Block Busting Cinema: “The Karate Kid.” Rated PG. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322 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 can connect and build projects with the library’s LEGO bricks. 4 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
28 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:44 a.m.; sunset 7:36 p.m.
Crystal Falls
• Rosie and the Rivets. Rosie and the Rivets perform a female-fronted tribute to the formative years of rock ’n’ roll (1954-1964) as well as contemporary music with a retro twist. Students, $5; adults, $23. 7 p.m CDT. The Crystal Theatre, 304 Superior Ave. 906-875-3208 or thecrystaltheatre.org.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 9 a.m. to noon. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
L’Anse
• Baraga County Farmers Market. Shop from local farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to noon. Meadowbrook Pavilion.
Marquette
• Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Funds raised support the Alzheimer’s Association. 9 a.m. Mattson Lower Harbor Park. alz.org/walk.
• Farmers Market. Includes farmers, growers, food producers and artisans. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket. com.
• Friends of the PWPL Fall Used Book Sale. All items will be half price from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the $5 bag sale will take place from 1:45 to 4 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-9510.
• Call for Art. Participants in the Lake Superior Art Association’s Challenge Exhibit can submit their work. The theme for the exhibit is “Opposites.” 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deo Gallery, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-6027 or joann_shelby @ hotmail.com.
• Upper Peninsula Arts and Culture Alliance Annual Conference. The conference will focus on arts and culture advocacy, and strategies to support and promote arts and culture in local communities. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Northern Center, NMU. To register, upacalliance.com.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Citizens Forum, Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• Saturday Storytime. Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays geared towards babies through preschool-age children with a loving adult will be offered. Older siblings welcome. 10:30 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
Negaunee
• Fall Fest. This family-friendly event will include a special Farmer’s Market, pony rides, an inflatable obstacle course, hay rides, music, games and more. Downtown and local businesses will also hold different on-site activities. Hosted by the Negaunee DDA. Noon to 5 p.m.
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. Monday through Saturday, noon and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. 3000 US-41 (back side of mall).
• 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. Meetings throughout Marquette County, open daily, 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 Community Building, 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 Cholesterol Checks. Cholesterol checks are $5. Call for Marquette
Downtown. 906-475-7700.
29 SUNDAY
sunrise 7:46 a.m.; sunset 7:34 p.m.
Curtis
• The Magic of the Night Sky in Upper Michigan. Astrophotographer Shawn Malone will host an immersive ultra HD visual presentation and share insights on memorable experiences in the field. In advance, $15; at the door, $20. 4 p.m. The Pine Performance Center, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. mynorthtickets.com.
Marquette
• Story Time at MooseWood. “Keeping Minibeasts: Beetles” by Barrie Watts will be read followed by an activity. Intended age range is 5 to 8 years old, but all are welcome. Suggested 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.
30 MONDAY
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children aged 18 to 36 months and 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.
• 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
County schedule. 906-225-4545.
• Caregiver Support Group— Gwinn. Opportunities to share feelings, develop friendships and learn about available community resources. Sept. 10. 1:30 p.m. Forsyth Senior Center, 165 Maple St. 906-225-7760 or lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• Caregiver Support Group— Ishpeming. Canceled for September. 906-225-7760 or lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• 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. Sept. 11. 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 Room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-225-4545.
• Grief Support Group—Gwinn. People dealing with grief and loss are encouraged to attend. Individual grief counseling is available. Sept. 11. 2 p.m. Forsyth Senior Center, 165 Maple St. 906-225-7760 or lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• Grief Support Group—Marquette. People dealing with grief and loss are encouraged to attend. Individual grief counseling is available. Sept. 18. 5:30
p.m. Lake Superior Life Care and Hospice, 914 W. Baraga Ave. 906225-7760 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 to 8:30 p.m. Closed meeting on Fridays, 7:30 to 8:30 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. Sept. 9 and 19 (email ckbertucci58@charter.net to confirm meeting). 7 p.m. 1025 W. Washington St., Suite C, Marquette. 906-360-7107 or namimqt.com.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness—Zoom Support Group. Individuals living with mental illness and friends or families living with an individual with mental illness are welcome. Sept. 12 (Zoom date may be subject to change). 7 p.m. Email ckbertucci58@charter.net or call or text 906-360-7107 before 6:45 p.m. the day of the meeting to receive the Zoom invitation. namimqt.com.
• Nicotine Anonymous. 415-7500328 or nicotine-anonymous.org.
• Parkinson’s Support Group. Open to people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Sept. 18. 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 Systems–Portage Hospital, 500 Campus Dr. smartrecovery.org.
• SMART Recovery (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.
• 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 required. 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. MM
