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.
5 City notes
HigHligHts of important Happenings in tHe area
12 then & now Superior View gladstone YacHt club
14 new york tiMes Crossword Puzzle manual dexteritY (answers on page 67)
16 feature
Michael Murray tHe gales of november
21 lookout Point
Jennifer chaMpagne munising HigHligHted in pure micHigan campaign
26 the arts
Jennifer chaMpagne 41 nortH film festival celebrates 10 Years
32 sPorting life
JiM laJoie radio personalitY Jack Hall Hits milestone
35 loCals
Brad giSchia retired teacHer keeps music alive
41 the arts
KriSty BaSolo american idol contestant Has u p ties
45 the arts andie Belanger musician noaH bauer releases first album
Scot Stewart Horns and antlers serve multiple purposes
69 suPerior reads Victor r. VolKMan brockwaY mountain stories
About the Cover Artist
Ron Morgan (Ronnie Art) has become one of the well known artists in the Marquette area. His art is displayed in many establishments around town. Ronnie is best known for his detailed acrylic paintings and notecards. He enjoys retirement and creating his works at his home studio. He can be reached at morgdog3@yahoo.com.
71 on CaMPus
news from u p universities and colleges
73 the sPirit of water Jeff noBle cool water
74 Poetry
Janeen pergrin raStall suddenlY falling
75 out & about
erin elliott Bryan & carrie uSher november events, music, art, museums and support groups
Inaugural small business celebration is Nov. 1
The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) will host the inaugural Marquette County Small Business Celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1 at The Mather in Ishpeming.
This event will recognize and celebrate the vital role that small businesses play in our community.
The evening will feature heavy appetizers provided by Mama Russo’s, Midtown Bakery and Doozers, a cash bar and an opportunity to mingle with business leaders and community members. In the spirit of the season, attendees are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. For details, visit marquette.org/events.
Saturday morning markets planned in November
The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market will host November Farm Stands and a Thanksgiving Market in November at the Commons Plaza.
Farmers will sell their fall produce and meats from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, Nov. 2, 9 and 16. The market season will end with the Thanksgiving Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 23 with local farmers and artisans offering fresh produce, holiday goodies and handcrafted items.
Vendors looking to participate in the Thanksgiving Market can apply at mqtfarmersmarket.com/apply. Indoor booth space is limited. Market gift cards are also available online.
Winter Sports Swap set for Nov. 2, benefits MMRT
The 2024 Winter Sports Swap will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 2 at Lakeview Arena in Marquette. Twenty-five percent of this winter sports gear sale will support the Marquette Mountain Racing Team (MMRT).
Admission to the sale is free for ages 14 and younger, and $5 for adults. Tickets for staggered entry are available in advance at The Compound or Downwind Sports. Tickets will also be available at the door.
MSHS students to perform ‘Les Miserables’
Students from the Marquette Senior High School theater program are studying the history of France in a unique way with a production of “Les Misérables School Edition.”
Jill Vermeulen, a Marquette alumna and fourth grade teacher at Cherry Creek Elementary School, is making
city notes
Ore Dock expansion in final stages
Ore Dock Brewing Co.’s expansion project in downtown Marquette is nearing the final stages of construction. In development since 2020 and breaking ground in 2022, the project has aimed to sustainably redevelop the historic trestle corridor, transforming the vacant and condemned property at 112 Front St. into a community asset connected to the Spring Street brewery. The three-story building will feature a four-season biergarten, indoor-outdoor event venue extending the existing Ore Dock Community Space and upper-level residential units. The lower level will house The Trestle, a craft cocktail lounge with a menu curated by mixologist Alex McCracken. Ongoing aspects of the project include solar panel installation, improvements to the production facility and the addition of a kitchen. For details, visit oredockbrewing.com. (Photo courtesy of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation)
her MSHS theater directorial debut.
This adaptation of the Tony Award-winning musical, which will be performed by students only, will be staged at 7 p.m. on Nov. 8 and at 1 and 7 p.m. on Nov. 9 at Kaufman Auditorium, 611 N. Front St. in Marquette.
Tickets are available at the Superior Dome ticket office and online at nmu.universitytickets.com.
Revolve Creative Conference moves to Northern Center
The Revolve Creative Conference
will return to Marquette from Nov. 8-9 at a new location, NMU’s Northern Center.
The organization’s mission is to energize the sustainable growth of the creative community by exploring broad creative topics, the vitality of collaboration and opportunities for quality connections that include underrepresented groups.
This year’s keynote speakers will offer a variety of creative industry expertise and include Nandi Comer, current poet laureate of Michigan, Seth Polansky, creatives attorney and documentarian, and Mary Hermes, PH.D., executive director and founder of Grassroots Indigenous Multimedia.
The program will begin with a short business meeting with an opportunity to meet board members. Refreshments will be served. For details, visit laughingwhitefishbirdalliance.com.
U.P. Notable Book Club to welcome Sue Harrison
The Crystal Falls Community District Library in partnership with the U.P. Publishers and Authors Association (UPPAA) will host Sue Harrison, author of “The Midwife’s Touch,” in an online conversation on Nov. 14. The event will take place at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
For details and to register for the conference, visit revolvecc.net.
Ishpeming Area Historical Society sets annual meeting
TheIshpeming Area Historical Society will have its annual general meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 12 at The Mather in Ishpeming.
A meet and greet, questions and answers, and light refreshments will begin at 6:30 p.m. A presentation by Karen Kasper about the history of the Mather Inn, Nelson House and earlier Barnum begin at 7 p.m, and will be followed by the meeting. The public is welcome.
Bird alliance to host social, membership meeting
The Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance will host its monthly membership meeting and social gathering at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13 in the Shiras Room at Peter White Public Library. It is open to the public.
All attendees are invited to bring photographs of birds and other nature-oriented subjects to share with the audience. Bring photos on a CD, DVD or jump drive; a computer and digital projector will be provided.
Harrison’s novel is a 19th-century tale of alienation and avarice, survival and sacrifice. China Creed’s birthright, passed down from her mother’s side of the family, is the power to grant wishes with only a touch. In her small Ozark town, where superstition runs rampant, the only person who can be trusted with her secret is the Cherokee midwife and healer who makes China her apprentice. But when a new doctor arrives after the Civil War, China must decide if he can be trusted with her secret amid her mother’s death and accusations of witchcraft. It is recommended to borrow a copy of the book from a local library or purchase from a local bookseller in advance. For details, visit upnotable.com. For Zoom information for the Nov. 14 event, contact Evelyn Gathu in advance at 906-875-3344 or egathu@crystalfallslibrary.org.
Annual Holistic Health Fair set for Nov. 16 at NMU
Theannual Marquette Holistic Health Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 16 at NMU’s Northern Center. The fair will offer an array of holistic products and services and provide an opportunity for community members to connect with like-minded people who share their passion for holistic well-being.
Attendees will have the chance to explore various holistic offerings, including massage therapy, assessments and information, energy work, handcrafted products, tarot and oracle card readings, mental health therapy dogs and more. There will also be a variety of presentations throughout the day on topics such as biofield tuning, estate planning, menopause and maternal wellness, among others.
The event is free to attend and the first 100 guests will receive goodie bags. Attendees can also win door prizes. For details, visit mqtholistichealthfair.com.
24th annual Holiday Art Sale planned at history center
The Marquette Regional History Center and City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center will host the 24th annual Holiday Art Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 16 at the Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St.
The sale will provide holiday shoppers with works by a variety of local artists as well as access to the museum’s exhibits, an old-fashioned bake sale, the annual Dollhouse Days, a membership drive and the center’s gift shop.
There will be a $2 admission fee, which includes entrance to the sale, MRHC exhibits and all other activities. All proceeds support the MRHC. For details, contact the Marquette Regional History Center at 906-2263571 or visit marquettehistory.org.
Shiras Planetarium offers photography contest
Shiras Planetarium announced the Nighttime Wildlife Photography Contest celebrating the legacy of George Shiras III, a pioneer in wildlife and night photography.
This contest, which is open to all U.P. residents regardless of age or skill level, invites photographers to capture the beauty of nocturnal wildlife in the spirit of Shiras’s work.
A panel composed of MSHS Photography Club students, teachers and community members will judge the entries. The winners will be announced on Nov. 25 and an exhibition of the top entries will be held at Shiras Planetarium.
The winner will receive $250 cash plus a one-hour mentoring session with Daniele Carol Photography. Additional cash prizes will be awarded.
The submission deadline is midnight on Nov. 17. For details and submission guidelines, visit shirasplanetarium.org/photography-contest.
Copper Country November Gale scheduled
Hockey is more than a sport in the Keweenaw Peninsula — it’s part of the region’s soul. As the birthplace of professional hockey, the Keweenaw is rooted deeply in the fast-paced excitement of pucks, skates and icy goals.
Now, its frozen legacy continues as the next generation of players laces up to take on the ice at the first annual Copper Country November Gale 10U Hockey Tournament.
The Copper Country Junior Hockey Association (CCJHA) will host as many as 140 athletes from across the region from Nov. 8-10 in some of the world’s oldest-operating hockey arenas — the Dee Stadium and the Houghton County Arena — to compete in an exciting event.
“The CCJHA decided to host a 10U Squirt Tournament this year with the goal of bringing outside associations in to experience the birthplace of professional hockey,” said Stacy Bussiere, tournament director. “This event is not only a fundraiser to support our athletes of all ages, but we hope to create a memorable
Registration open for library Winter Wonderland Walk
Registration is open through Nov. 20 for Peter White Public Library’s 2024 Winter Wonderland Walk. All groups, organizations and individuals can choose their own theme and decorate a holiday tree that will be displayed throughout the season at the library.
All those interested in participating in this annual tradition must register online, even if they are supplying their own tree to decorate. There are a limited number of trees available for groups, organizations or individuals
experience for the teams and their families. Playing at Michigan Tech’s Student Development Complex is a highlight, but we’re equally excited for these young athletes to experience our historical local rinks.”
The tournament will immerse fans in the classic hockey tradition that is the Keweenaw. Hockey is believed to have been introduced in January 1898 in Houghton, with the Portage Lake team established by 1899. The Calumet Colosseum was built in 1913 and is considered to be the oldest operating continuous-use
in need of one.
All registrations must be received by noon on Nov. 20. For details, contact Marty at 906-226-4322 or machatz@pwpl.info. To register, visit pwpl.info.
Food
for
fines offered at Pe
-
ter White Public Library
Peter White Public Library is offering Food for Fines, a program that allows library users the option to resolve overdue fines with the donation of non-perishable food items to the TV6 Canathon. For each non-perishable food item brought to the library’s
ice rink in North America.
The CCJHA is bringing back the glory days of youth hockey, inspiring the sport for future generations in the place that it all began.
“We are working hard to make this first annual event a fun and memorable experience for all of our attending teams and their families,” Bussiere said. “Please consider joining us this year, and hopefully making this a staple in your schedule for years to come.” For details, visit ccjha.org/November-gale.
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circulation desk from Nov. 4 through 30, $1 in overdue library fines will be forgiven.
For details, call Melissa Alan at 906-226-4310.
Travel Marquette to sponsor holiday events
The debut of the Winter Light Festival, a series of festivities and immersive light experiences embodying the holiday spirit, will be the highlight of upcoming events sponsored by Travel Marquette.
In partnership with Fresh Coast Light Lab, the fourth annual Holi-
The first November Gale Tournament will be held in the historic Keweenaw ice rinks starting Nov. 8. (Photo courtesy of Visit Keweenaw)
day Lasers on the Ore Dock will be projected onto the north side of Marquette’s Lower Harbor Ore Dock from 6 to 8 p.m. each Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 28 to Dec. 28. The sensory-friendly laser show ensures that all residents and visitors, including children, veterans and individuals with PTSD and those with sensory disorders, can participate in the festivities.
“Oscillation,” an interactive public art installation by The Urban Conga and powered by Creos, will be displayed Dec. 10 to Jan. 5 in the Marquette Commons. Inspired by the theremin, an electronic musical instrument controlled without physical contact, this installation will engage audiences through light, sound and movement. It is presented by the City of Marquette Public Art Commission with support from the Marquette Downtown Development Authority and Travel Marquette.
Downtown Marquette’s Holiday Parade and City Tree Lighting will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 13. The parade will travel along Third Street with illuminated floats and carolers, followed by the tree lighting at the Marquette Commons where visitors can meet Santa and enjoy live music from local musicians.
The Downtown Holiday Market at the Marquette Commons will take place from 3 to 9 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14. Hosted by the Downtown Farmers Market, this event will feature local artisans and producers offering holi-
day gifts, fresh local food and Christmas trees. For details, visit travelmarquette.com.
Marquette Choral Society to present winter concerts
The Marquette Choral Society will perform winter-themed concerts at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 7 and at 3 p.m. on Dec. 8 at NMU’s Reynolds Recital Hall.
The featured work will be John Rutter’s “Magnificat,” with soprano soloist Amanda Boundy and chamber orchestra. Other winter-themed works will include “On a Winter’s Night” by Karen P. Thomas, “Ave Maria” by Javier Busto, “The Rune of Hospitality” by Alf Hakoum, “Winter Suite: Six Songs Without Words, Opus 19… With Words,” based on music by Felix Mendelssohn and text by Laurie Betts Hughes, and “Christmas is Coming” arranged by Mack Wilberg with fourhand piano accompaniment.
Admission is $5 for children younger than 12 and $10 for adults.
MCS members will also perform the first movement of the Rutter “Magnificat” with the Marquette Symphony Orchestra on Dec. 14 at Kaufman Auditorium in Marquette and lead a Community Christmas Sing-along at 5 p.m. on Dec. 20 at St. Michael Catholic Church. Visit marquettechoralsociety.org for details.
UPPCO warns against scams UPPCO is alerting customers to scammers who are expanding
Keweenaw takes Plaidurday crown
In a spirited plaid-off, the Keweenaw has come out on top with 1,063 plaid-clad folks gathering for Houghton’s Plaidurday Photo at the Houghton High School football field on Oct. 4. Houghton claimed victory over rivals Ironwood and Marquette. The MTU Pep Band brought energy to the field as folks rallied between the 35-yard lines for the photo. Keweenaw Plaidurday is coordinated between Houghton High School and Middle School, the City of Houghton and Visit Keweenaw. (Photo courtesy of 2nd Sandbar)
their tactics to include face-to-face encounters. The company issued a warning recently after an incident in downstate Oakland County where two men, posing as utility workers investigating a gas leak, entered a home and killed a 72-year-old man and tied up his wife.
UPPCO will never make unannounced visits at a home or business and reminds customers that legitimate utility workers will never coerce residents into letting them into their homes.
When in doubt, UPPCO customers are encouraged to ask to see the utility representative’s company ID or call Customer Service at 906-449-2013 to confirm work is required at or near their property.
Customers who have been approached by someone who may have been impersonating a utility representative should report the incident to their local police department or the Michigan State Police.
Iron Industry Museum temporarily closed to public
TheMichigan Iron Industry Museum is closed through Nov. 22 for building renovations. The grounds and trails remain open to visitors.
For updates, visit michigan.gov/ mhc/museums/miim.
Public input sought for Keweenaw Point, Fort Wilkins
TheMichigan Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input on two new general management plans in the Keweenaw Peninsula: one for Keweenaw Point state-managed lands and one for Fort Wilkins Historic State Park in Keweenaw County.
Feedback collected will influence plans to help protect the natural communities, historical significance and recreational value of both locations.
The Keweenaw Point lands, comprised of current and future state-managed lands at the northern tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, include DNR-managed state forest lands and a portion of the Nature Conservancy-owned Keweenaw Heartlands. Together, the lands would comprise
nearly 20,000 acres and be managed by the DNR as one unit.
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park is set along Lake Superior and features a modern campground, trails, a historical fort with a living-history program, two 1860s lighthouses and more.
Online surveys are available through Nov. 24. There will also be a virtual public meeting for Keweenaw Point at 6 p.m. on Nov. 6; pre-registration is required. Visit Michigan.gov/ ParkManagementPlans for details.
Beth Millner Jewelry partners
for fundraising
Beth Millner Jewelry has released four new pendants for its jewelry fundraiser program to benefit the Keweenaw Wild Bird REC, Copper Country Community Arts Center (CCCAC), Marquette County Conservation District (MCCD) and Marquette Fringe.
Each pendant has a unique design inspired by its associated organization and is made entirely from recycled materials in Beth Millner Jewelry’s upstairs studio in Marquette. Additionally, $50 from the sale of each pendant will be donated back to its respective organization.
Since starting the local fundraiser programs, Beth Millner Jewelry has raised more than $64,000 for local organizations. For details, visit bethmillner.com.
Able Medical announces new facility in Marquette
Able Medical Devices, a developer and manufacturer of innovative medical devices, announced the groundbreaking of its new manufacturing facility in Marquette.
The new facility will initially feature 30,000 square feet of manufacturing space with the potential to expand as the company grows. It will offer some Able team members closer access to their homes and families, and will be bike-friendly.
This expansion is expected to create 40 new jobs and nearly $13 million in capital investment with the support of a $500,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant. Able Med-
DID YOU KNOW ...
which U.P. county has shoreline on two Great Lakes?
Chippewa County in the eastern Upper Peninsula is the only of 15 counties with this claim to fame. It touches Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
Submitted by Dr. Russell M. Magnaghi, history professor emeritus of NMU and author of several books, including “Upper Peninsula Beer: A History of Brewing Above the Bridge.”
Bradford Veley is a freelance cartoonist, illustrator and farmer in the U.P. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram and at bradveley.com.
ical Devices, currently based at K.I. Sawyer, is a Longyear Company. For details, visit ablemedicaldevices.com.
Michigamme Township Park marks 50 years
Michigamme Township recently celebrated its 50-year anniversary and the completion of its recent revitalization project. The revitalization, funded with assistance from the DNR’s Land and Water Conservation Fund, allowed the township to modernize the park’s combined tennis and pickleball courts, the basketball court and improve accessibility with disability-friendly features.
Michigamme Township Park, which is easily accessed from US-41, is located on the shores of Lake Michigamme and offers a scenic view of the bay.
Tahquamenon Falls area open during construction
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will add a new, fully accessible 900-foot-long boardwalk winding through an old-growth forest to the popular Upper Falls day-use area at Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
The boardwalk will provide views of the 200-foot-wide falls and feature benches. Construction is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2025.
All other Upper Falls viewing areas will remain open to visitors during construction, including the three viewing platforms situated above the falls and the privately owned Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub.
A $3.275 million allocation in fed-
eral relief funding made these and other renovations possible at the park. For details, contact Kevin Dennis at 906-492-3415 or DennisK2@Michigan.gov.
Proposals sought for juvenile facility improvements
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Division of Juvenile Justice has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to improve infrastructure of juvenile justice facilities.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, private and public entities, and federally recognized tribes or a group of federally recognized Michigan tribes that operate a juvenile justice facility or facilities.
The grant period will be from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, 2025. The total amount available is $2 million, with awards ranging from $200,000 to $2 million.
Grant applications must be submitted electronically through the EGrAMS program by 3 p.m. on Nov. 7.
For details, visit egrams-mi.com/ mdhhs/user/home.aspx and select the “About EGrAMS” link in the left panel to access the “Competitive Application Instructions” training manual.
Local business news…in brief
• The Bonifas Arts Center announced the appointment of Chelsea Hart as the new executive director; she is an NMU graduate and comes to Escanaba from her role as development director at the Cradle of Liberty Council in Philadelphia.
• Michigan Therapy and Counseling, a therapist-owned, private mental health practice has opened its newest location at 5087 US-41 in Marquette; the practice offers personalized, culturally adapted mental health services to individuals, couples and families in the Marquette community. For details, visit michigantherapyandcounseling. com or call 906-263-0080.
• Honey Baked Bread Co., a Celiac-run business dedicated to offering inclusive food options for those with food allergies, has opened its new bakery at 603 N. Third St. in Marquette; owner Bailey Knight is dedicated to providing quality gluten-free, dairyfree, egg-free and soy-free options. For details, call 906-251-8043 or visit honeybakedbread.co.
• The Living Well Chiropractic + Acupuncture opened on Washington Street in Marquette to offer neurologically-based chiropractic care from Dr. Kevin Levandoski for kids with ADD, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and anxiety. Dr. Brianne Levandoski provides acupuncture services, specializing in women’s health issues, along with pain, digestion and sleep. For details, visit thelivingwellmqt. com or call 920-284-6202.
• Specialized Retirement Consultants, a Marquette-based independent registered investment advisor, has expanded its services in Marquette County; the firm helps business leaders mitigate their personal fiduciary risks while ensuring employees are well prepared for retirement. For details, visit 401TK.com.
• TruNorth Federal Credit Union recently opened its new location at 2322 US-41 in Marquette and celebrated the credit union’s 75-year history. For details, visit trunorthcu.org or call 906-228-0624.
• Fran Lanyon, a longtime employee of Head Hunters Salon, located at 1500 W. Washington St., Suite 5 and 6 in Marquette, has recently taken over as owner; the salon has also welcomed new stylist Roxy Coss. For details, call 906-228 -3379.
• Lucky Ducklings Daycare recently opened at 211 Seass Dr. in Gwinn; owner Amy Suchan brings an understanding of child development and early childhood care, and bases the curriculum on play in a welcoming atmosphere that fosters growth and development. For details, call 906-362-4755 or visit wonderschool. com/mi/gwinn/lucky-ducklings-daycare-18992.
• Amanda’s Home Daycare is now open just outside of downtown Negaunee; owner Amanda Gonzales-Gravedoni provides a personalized, nurturing and diverse childcare
experience; its bilingual program fosters creativity through music and arts. For details, visit ahdnegaunee.com.
• The Keweenaw Co+op recently opened its new location at 610 Quincy St. in Hancock; it transitioned from its Ethel Avenue location to a larger, more accessible space, which provides a wider selection, spacious layout and indoor/outdoor seating. For details, visit keweenaw.coop.
• Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed Susan Estler, CEO of Travel Marquette and owner of Susan Estler Jewelry, to the Michigan Travel Commission.
• Whitmer has appointed Zosia Eppensteiner, CEO of the Community Foundation of Marquette, to the Statewide Housing Partnership; she is appointed to represent philanthropic or nonprofit organizations that promote the welfare of others through funding or programing.
• UP Health System – Marquette has opened its new Medical Office Building at 1400 W. Washington St. in the former Office Max retail location, which houses Outpatient Behavioral Health, the UP Regional Blood Center and the UP Bariatric Institute. For details, visit UPHealthSystem.com.
• UP Health System – Marquette has been recognized as one of three hospitals across the state by the Economic Alliance of Michigan (EAM) to receive a 2024 Hospital Maternity Care Improvement Award.
• UP Health System – Marquette announced that Jessica Pruente, M.D., a Marquette native, has joined its medical staff; she provides rehabilitation services to children of all ages with disabilities, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, traumatic brain injuries, abnormal gait or development, neuromuscular conditions, spinal cord injuries and more. For details, call 906-449-4880.
• National Geographic Traveler (UK) named Copper Harbor one of the top eight spots for fall foliage beyond New England in a recent roundup; cited for being the gateway to Isle Royale National Park, Michigan’s northernmost town and housing bountiful amounts of deciduous and coniferous trees, Copper Harbor was described as Michigan’s ultimate fall color peeping destination.
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HOW TO SUBMIT TO CITY NOTES
The deadline for event and press release submissions for City Notes is the 10th day of the month prior to publication. Send your releases to editor@marquettemonthly.com.
Photos provided by Superior View Studios, located in Art of Framing, 149 W. Washington Street Marquette viewsofthepast.com
The Gladstone Yacht Club was established in 1938 in Van Cleve Park at Gladstone Harbor on Lake Michigan. It is located at the smaller of the two marinas in Delta County, located at South 10th Street.
ACROSS
1 Massive stars
6 Associate of the gods Pothos and Himeros (Longing and Desire)
10 Train in the WashingtonBaltimore area
14 Distortions in the spacetime continuum
19 Got by
20 Blow
21 Surname of three baseball brothers
22 Turn away
23 Title for a tutorial on musical composition?
26 Interior design
27 Susan who wrote ‘‘The Orchid Thief’’
28 Actress Gardner
29 Tickle Me Elmo maker
31 How many elements on the periodic table have the letter ‘‘J’’ in their names
32 Impromptu
34 Spot for a stud
36 Put into motion
38 Underworld thug
41 . a primer on playing dreidel?
45 In the center of
48 Some I.C.U. workers
49 Alternative to Hinge or Bumble
50 On which Maya Rudolph has played Kamala Harris, in brief
51 Enjoys a lazy Sunday, say
53 2020 nonfiction best seller subtitled ‘‘The Origins of Our Discontents’’
54 Over or under
57 . a volume on vapor dynamics?
62 Calm
64 Aware of
65 Bodies of work
67 Touched down
68 Farewell performance
71 Slugger’s stat
72 Stereotypical prom experience
75 Trough call
76 ‘‘Go us!’’
79 Free of extra charges
80 Uncovers
83 . . . a step-by-step guide for throwing breaking balls?
87 Keep in the cellar, perhaps
88 Symbols of toughness, in a simile
90 Barrel-shaped containers
91 ____ Le Gallienne, star of 1920s Broadway
92 Sheets and pillowcases
94 Joule division
95 Salts
97 . . . a handbook on raising kids?
103 Email button
104 It’s going around
105 ‘‘Here a ____, there a ___, everywhere a ___-___ . .’’
106 Lock
109 Be extremely angry
110 Model’s need
113 Simpson’s judge
115 Come (to)
24 ‘‘Uh-uh’’
25 ____ paneer (Indian dish)
30 Some chamber groups
33 Island off Greece’s northwest coast
35 Balderdash
37 Substitute for ‘‘E’’ on a license plate, maybe
38 [Did he really just say that!?]
39 High-end hotel chain
40 Garage job
42 Creative spark, informally
43 Parish priest
44 Cloisonné material
46 Docking spots
47 Spanish for ‘‘foolish’’
52 Serious suffering
54 ‘‘Seriously . .’’
55 Sooner State city
56 Béret bearer
58 ‘‘Come Dancing’’ band, with ‘‘the’’
59 King maker?
60 Potato, yam or cassava
61 Water brand whose name is an adjective in reverse
63 Harder to come by
66 Turns state’s evidence
68 Beverage one shouldn’t shake well before serving
69 Kristen formerly of 50-Across
70 Ship’s kitchen
73 Pokes fun at
74 Worth having
77 Kind of question
118 Light ditties
120 . a D.I.Y. manual on other D.I.Y. manuals?
124 Panache
125 Repetitive sound
126 Apartment building V.I.P.
127 Newspaper section
128 Delectable
129 ‘‘____ the Limit’’ (Notorious B.I.G. song)
130 Edict issuer in ‘‘Fiddler on the Roof’’
131 Shangri-las DOWN
1 Texter’s shrug
2 Pet for Pebbles, in cartoons
3 It will all come out in the wash 4 Flood-prone area 5 Competed in a biathlon 6 What has some holiday spirit? 7 Tired routine 8 Workplace regulator, for short 9 Ford’s only Supreme Court appointee 10 Easy ____ (longtime Kraft product)
Loads 12 Golfer McIlroy 13 Signs with lines
‘‘Right this second!’’
Recipient of 21 Academy Award acting nominations
78 Lead-in to brewery
81 Like the leftmost candle until the final night of Hanukkah
82 Looking discomfited
84 Incessantly bother
85 Level
86 Navajo painting medium
89 Thankless types
93 Bottom of some columns
94 Self-centered sort
96 Taken for granted
97 The Holy Grail, e.g.
98 Beethoven’s third symphony
99 Govt.-backed investments
100 Attack, medieval-style
101 Churn up
102 Stock-exchange worker
107 Earthbound bird
108 River to the English Channel
111 Bulletin-board piece
112 Hurting
114 ____ probandi (burden of proof)
116 ____ Owl, one of the superheroes in ‘‘Watchmen’’
117 Fork-tailed bird
119 Dump
121 Decks, in brief
122 Fig. of interest to an admissions department
123 Castaway’s call
The Gales of November feature
Long shipwreck list has given this month a bad name
By Michael Murray
At 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 4, 1869, the W.W. Arnold departed Marquette’s Lower Harbor bound for its home port of Cleveland with a load of iron ore intended to bolster the nation’s recovery from the Civil War. In addition to its cargo, the two-masted, 426-ton schooner carried a crew of eight or nine sailors along with two passengers.
About four hours after the Arnold headed east for its 140-mile voyage to the Soo Locks, which had opened just 14 years earlier, Marquette and the surrounding area were blasted by a violent storm that featured towering waves, gale-force winds and blinding snow. One contemporary report noted that the storm “caused ships at anchor in the harbor to crash against each other. … After the storm subsided, the bay was strewn with wreckage.”
Twelve miles northwest of Marquette, the wind was so fierce that it blew the tin sheathing off the lighthouse on Granite Island.
As for the Arnold, it failed to reach Sault Ste. Marie — and this news was met with a mixture of concern and disbelief when it was relayed back to Marquette several days later. The respected captain, a man named Beardsley, was reportedly well known in town, as was one of the passengers, Willie H. Boyes, who had been a clerk in the post office. In addition, the vessel itself, only six years old and well built, was highly regarded.
“But as days went by and incoming ships reported no sign of the Arnold, the outlook was ominous,” Julius F. Wolff Jr. writes in “Lake Superior Shipwrecks.” “Of course, Marquette people were aware that there was virtually no civilization between Munising and Whitefish Point, nor on the eastern Canadian shore. It might have been possible for the ship to be ashore someplace where it would take the crew days to walk out.”
As November turned to December, however, seasoned Great Lakes mariners began to assume the worst. Finally, on Dec. 7, an Indigenous mail carrier arrived in Munising with the dreaded news. Wolff writes, “He
Above, a United States Lifesaving Service crew rows out to rescue the survivors aboard the wreck of the S.S. Mataafa, visible in the background (Photo courtesy of the UW-Superior Lake Superior Maritime Collection). Tragedy on the Great Lakes was the focus of the Nov. 13, 1913 issue of The Detroit News. (Public domain image)
had observed the shattered hull of a dark-colored vessel hurled on the beach at the mouth of the Two Hearted River, about 25 miles west of Whitefish Point.”
The mail carrier reported that he had spoken with a trapper who had been on the scene four days after the November storm and counted 10 bodies at the water’s edge. According to news reports at the time, neither man wanted to approach the bodies, for fear of encountering ghosts.
* * *
Thetale of the wreck of the W.W. Arnold echoes the broad outline of
dozens — and perhaps hundreds — of ships claimed by the Great Lakes over the past two centuries: It’s November, the end of the shipping season. A vessel sets sail under normal or even calm weather conditions. At some point, seemingly out of nowhere, a vi-
cious gale blasts across the lake from the north or northwest. The captain loses contact with the outside world, and the vessel disappears. After the storm blows over, the grim reality sets in. The ship and crew are lost. This phenomenon is so common
that it has become part of the vernacular of the Great Lakes. When the autumn wind starts whipping along the shore, anyone who has heard Gordon Lightfoot’s 1976 ballad “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” shivers in the face of “the gales of November” and shudders at the thought of “the witch of November come stealin’.”
The sinking of the 729-foot S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald in Lake Superior near Whitefish Bay on Nov. 10, 1975 is probably the most famous of the November shipwrecks, thrust into the national consciousness by Lightfoot’s haunting lyrics and melody. But it is far from alone.
By one accounting, seven of the deadliest wrecks on the Great Lakes occurred in November storms. Notable disasters in the middle of the 20th century include the S.S. Carl D. Bradley on Nov. 18, 1958, in northern Lake Michigan, and the S.S. Daniel J. Morrell on Nov. 29, 1966, off Michigan’s Thumb region in Lake Huron.
Trying to come up with solid numbers concerning shipwrecks and lives lost on the Great Lakes can seem like a futile task. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point estimates the toll at 6,000 ships and 30,000 people lost. But one author, Mark L. Thompson, says the total is likely greater than 25,000 shipwrecks. And of these, he estimates at least a third have occurred in November.
Frederick Stonehouse of Marquette, a renowned maritime historian and author, devoted an entire book to the deadly month. “November: The Cruelest Month” was published in
2010 and tells the well-researched stories of 15 ships whose tragedies have been overshadowed by the likes of the Fitzgerald, Bradley and Morrell.
Stonehouse’s November tally includes the above-mentioned Arnold, along with the Saturn and Jupiter in 1872, the H.C. Akeley in 1883, the Algoma near Isle Royale in 1885 and the Maplehurst off the Keweenaw Peninsula in 1922.
Stonehouse notes that several factors contribute to the impression — and reality — that November is the cruelest month in Great Lakes shipping.
One element involves insurance. In the early days of commercial shipping in the United States, insurers wrote policies that ended on Dec. 1 each year. This deadline increased late traffic in the shipping lanes, as ship own-
ers pushed to get one final trip in the books before their coverage ended. This financial factor was coupled with an even more significant one: the weather.
* * *
“As we look at the transition of seasons — such as from fall into the early part of winter — the jet
SS Daniel J. Morrell, a 603-foot Great Lakes freighter, broke up in a strong storm on Lake Huron on Nov. 29, 1966, costing the lives of 28 of its crew. (Photo courtesy of Historical Collections of the Great Lakes)
stream comes further south into the United States, and we see much larger temperature variations that exist during the transfer of seasons,” said Matt Zika of the National Weather Service office in Marquette. “And because of that, it leads to more intense storm systems that develop across the continental United States and then often lift up into the Great Lakes. That leads to stronger winds associated with those storms.”
Water temperatures in the Great Lakes peak in early September, Zika said, and this fact also plays a role in the severity of fall storms.
water. This is what happened on Nov. 27 and 28, 1905. A system now known as the Mataafa Storm moved into the Great Lakes region and destroyed or damaged about 29 ships — most on Lake Superior — including the S.S. Mataafa.
The Mataafa left Duluth, Minnesota, on Nov. 27 loaded with iron ore and towing the barge James Nasmyth. The ship battled the storm until about 4 p.m. the next day, when, near Two Harbors, Minnesota, the captain gave orders to turn back.
MARITIME HISTORY EVENT
Improvements in Weather Forecasting
Throughout the Years
“When we get these big wind storms, and the cold air starts to move over the lake, it sets up an environment that we call unstable,” he said. “The air over the warmer water will rise into the atmosphere, and it allows those stronger winds higher in the atmosphere to mix down to the lake surface. That’s how we end up with these huge waves that occur in the fall storms.”
Matt Zika from the National Weather Service
7 p.m. • Tuesday, Nov. 5
Ore Dock Brewing Co. 114 W. Spring St., Marquette
He will discuss how some of the biggest fall storms have affected Great Lakes shipping. Suggested donation is $5.
The event is organized by the Marquette Maritime Museum and sponsored in part by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.
Some of these storms are classified as extratropical cyclones — when a large swath of low pressure develops over a continental area — and they can last for days, pummeling any vessels that happen to get caught on the
The Mataafa arrived safely at Duluth but could not make it through the twin concrete piers of the harbor. The ship was hit by a backwater surge and grounded just outside the pier, where it broke in two. Nine of the Mataafa’s crew members died of exposure that night, and 27 other mariners across the Great Lakes lost their lives in the cyclone.
Another November nightmare took place between Nov. 7 and 10, 1913. You know a storm is extraordinary when it gains its own nickname. This event earned four: the Great Lakes Storm of 1913, the Big Blow, the Freshwater Fury and the White Hurricane.
The storm was classified as a blizzard with hurricane-force winds that
The S.S. Carl D. Bradley went down on Nov. 18, 1958 in Lake Michigan. (Photo courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)
hammered and overturned ships on four of the five Great Lakes. About 275 people died across the region as a result of the storm. Shipping was hit especially hard, with 19 vessels destroyed and another 19 stranded. The financial losses totaled about $4.8 million (equivalent to $150 million today).
One more notable extratropical cyclone hit the region on Nov. 11 and 12, 1940 — the Armistice Day Blizzard. At least 145 people lost their lives as a direct result of the storm. The casualties included 66 sailors on Lake Michigan who died in the sinking of three freighters — the S.S. Anna C. Minch, the S.S. Novadoc and the S.S. William B. Davock — along with two smaller boats.
* * *
The Great Lakes has not experienced the loss of a large commercial vessel since the Fitzgerald sank 49 years ago this month with its entire crew of 29. In that period, several hurricane-force storms have hit the region in late October or November, including those in 1985, 1991, 1998 and 2010.
Many factors have contributed to this era of relative safety. Modern ships have better navigational systems, mandatory shipboard GPS systems and mandatory depth finders for vessels heavier than 1,600 tons. In addition, cargo ships have more conservative load limits, and demand for steel has waned, decreasing the need for ore to be shipped from the Upper
Peninsula and Minnesota iron ranges across Lake Superior.
“Technology has come a long way over the last 50 years,” the National Weather Service’s Zika said. “If we go back to when the Edmund Fitzgerald sailed across the lakes, there wasn’t a single wave-monitoring buoy anywhere within the expanse of Lake Superior telling us how high the waves were.”
There are now about 20 locations in Lake Superior that measure wave height. In addition, advancements in satellite technology, the Canadian and U.S. radar network and numerical weather prediction models have given meteorologists much more confidence in preparing forecasts.
“No longer are people being caught off guard,” Zika said. “We can put a notice out to all the people that are going to traverse the lakes and say there’s going to be gales occurring over the next 48 hours.
“So all of that has come together to allow us to provide much better forecasting services across the Great Lakes. And I think this is the main reason why we haven’t seen a tragedy like the Edmund Fitzgerald over that time.”
MM
Michael Murray is a managing editor of Marquette Monthly. His sources for this story include “November: The Cruelest Month” and “Steel on the Bottom” by Frederick Stonehouse; “Lake Superior Shipwrecks” by Julius F. Wolff Jr.; and “Freshwater Fury” by Frank Barcus.
The Algoma sank off Mott Island near Isle Royale in 1885 after running aground in a snow storm. (Photo courtesy of the National Park Service)
Pure Michigan campaign shines spotlight on Munising area lookout point
By Jennifer Champagne
The latest Pure Michigan campaign turned the spotlight on Munising, capturing its natural splendor and local culture with the help of Gorilla, a media production company based in Grand Rapids.
As part of a series featuring three Michigan communities — Muskegon, Saugatuck and Munising — the campaign was produced in collaboration with the creative agency MMGY Global from Overland Park, Kansas. The campaign, titled “Fresh Lives Here,” celebrates Michigan’s diverse and unexpected natural beauty.
“We really wanted to showcase a fresh perspective within the Pure Michigan campaign,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan. “It’s an extension of Pure Michigan that shows how travel can provide new experiences and opportunities you may not even anticipate. It’s about how travel transforms you as an individual, helping to reduce stress and offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy a destination. Being out in nature, experiencing the outdoors, can have a profound impact on people. It was also important for us to bring in fresh voices, which is why we featured the family from Munising to showcase the real people living in and contributing to the community. We know that travel transforms people, and there’s no better place to experience that transformation than in Pure Michigan.”
The crew spent a few days in Munising scouting, prepping and shooting in various locations on the water, including Matson’s Fishery, Captain Ron’s Food Truck and the stunning waters of Pictured Rocks, courtesy of Pictured Rocks Kayaking. For their scouting needs, they engaged Superior Pontoon Rentals, which provided essential support in navigating the waterways and identifying key locations for the shoot.
Zach Takenaga, Creative Director at MMGY Global, noted the unique appeal of the region. “Michigan’s natural beauty and culture visually speak for themselves,” Takenaga said. “People who haven’t been to Michigan are
just in awe of the color of the water, or the rich fishing heritage found within the local communities of the U.P. Michigan is really the hero of the story, and it’s about celebrating the real people and places in a way that feels true but also resonates with what people are seeking out in their travels right now.”
Katy Matson welcomed the crew to Matson’s Fishery, where they filmed the daily operations of this iconic family business, which was prominently featured in the campaign.
“It’s just a way of life for us,” Matson said. “We’re not a big corporation; we’re just people doing what we love. It was great to share our story and show what a family-run fishery really looks like.” The site had previously been showcased in an episode of Gordon Ramsay’s National Geographic series Uncharted, where Katy
Matson’s father, Captain Ron Matson, shared his expertise with the celebrity chef. This week marks the two-year anniversary of Captain Ron’s passing.
Reflecting on the filming process, Katy noted the intense effort required to capture the perfect shot. “It was a lot of TV magic,” she said. “We had to do the same shot over and over — moving the same 90-pound rack of fish multiple times. It was exhausting, but also fun because I got to see how much effort goes into getting everything just right.”
She recounted an incident where the crew wanted to film inside the smokehouse and even had a camera operator step into the smoker to capture the right shot. However, she advised against it due to the intense smoke and safety concerns. Instead, they creatively stacked wood to simulate the smoker environment while
maintaining safety for the crew.
“They really worked hard to show what we do, and it felt great to be a part of it,” she said.
Hank, the Matson family’s golden retriever, added an unexpected but delightful element to the shoot. Known for his friendly demeanor, Hank was a natural in front of the camera, often stealing the show as he took his marks for the scene, enjoyed shop talk with his co-stars and interacted with the crew. He especially enjoyed the attention of the two little girls cast to perform with him, happily soaking up their affection and energy.
Captain Chuck Matson, a fifth-generation fisherman, played a key role as the boat captain for the shoot. “It’s exciting to be part of something that highlights our heritage and the hard work we’ve put into this business,” Captain Matson said. “Working with
A multitude of equipment was used by the Pure Michigan team to capture footage that would allow the viewer to feel immersed in the Pictured Rocks environment. (Photo courtesy of Eric Machiela)
the crew was a great experience. They were very professional and really took the time to understand what we do here. It’s important for people to see the history and effort behind what we have built over generations.”
Eric Machiela, the director of the campaign, has a strong connection to the Upper Peninsula. Having spent many summers visiting family in the Gwinn and Houghton areas, he felt a personal draw to capturing Munising’s beauty.
“The landscape here is like nowhere else,” Machiela said. “I’ve got a county road map for basically every county you can get, and I love taking the back roads and exploring the region’s natural beauty. Everywhere you look, it’s just outdoors, nature, adventure.”
His passion for the area guided his approach to the project. “I backpacked Pictured Rocks all the way to Grand Marais a few years ago,” he said. “There’s just something magical about this place that I wanted to share.”
From a technical perspective, Machiela was committed to ensuring that every shot captured the area’s stunning landscapes. The camera chosen offered an incredible range of dynamic colors and highlights, which
was essential for capturing the vivid hues of the cliffs and the clarity of the water.
“We really didn’t want to compromise on quality; we were invested in using the best equipment,” Machiela said. “We wanted to show more than just the typical shots. Everyone knows about Lover’s Leap and Miners Cas-
tle, but we wanted to add depth to the narrative by showcasing places like Spray Falls and Chapel Rock from angles that haven’t been seen before.”
One of his favorite shots was a drone sequence emerging from underneath the roots of Chapel Rock, revealing the striking landscape beyond. “It’s easy to make Munising
look good on camera because the scenery is breathtaking, but we wanted to push creative boundaries to give people a fresh perspective.”
Cinematographer Chad Terpstra, who has previously worked in the Upper Peninsula, was thrilled to return to such a visually stunning environment. “The landscape here is like nowhere
Local experts and guides helped Pure Michigan camera crews get to hard-to-reach places, which provided some of the most picturesque footage for the project. (Photo courtesy of Eric Machiela)
else. We were dealing with everything from bright sunlight to sudden rain, but that’s part of the magic,” Terpstra said.
Filming on the water presented its own set of challenges, requiring careful coordination and precise timing. “We had a gimbal operator managing the Alexa 35 for stability, which allowed us to get smooth, cinematic shots even on a moving boat,” Terpstra said.
For underwater scenes, the crew utilized a Sony FX3 in a specialized housing to capture kayakers from below the surface, providing a unique perspective of the crystal-clear waters. “The water clarity was phenomenal, and we knew we had to take advantage of that to really showcase the beauty of Pictured Rocks,” he said.
Filming on the water presented its own set of logistical challenges. “We shot a lot on water for these recent spots — which is always a difficult logistical challenge. Let’s just say making those shots happen isn’t always as glamorous as filmmaking sounds — finding your lake legs while holding a huge camera and looking at a small screen, while a boat rocks back and forth, is a task I wish on no one,” Takenaga said. “But figuring out how to capture the energy and beauty of our freshwater was crucial. We knew we wanted the camera to be as close as possible to the action, while also allowing for sweeping aerials of the Big Lake and other stunning scenery. It wouldn’t have been possible without the help of local tour operators, communities, park rangers, and talented crew members who came together to support our production.”
The crew of 26 embraced the local culture, sampling pasties from Miners Pasty Kitchen and Wright’s Grocery in Shingleton, dining at Tracey’s at Roam Inn, and celebrating their wrap party at Life on the Rocks.
Sam and Jessica Brewer, along with their daughter Brooklynn and niece Amina Hase, played a central role in front of the camera, lending an authentic local presence to the campaign. The Brewers were filmed enjoying a day out at Captain Ron’s Food Truck, a fresh addition to the Matson family’s legacy, known for serving up fresh fish and mouthwatering sides.
“It was so much fun being part of the shoot,” Jessica Brewer said. “We did take after take, but it never felt tedious because everyone was so excited about what we were creating.”
For Brewer, being part of the Pure Michigan campaign was more than just a filming experience — it was a personal journey. Having grown up in Munising, the opportunity to showcase her hometown alongside her family felt particularly meaningful. “To be able to experience filming the commercial right here in town, eating at a place we eat at weekly, and to do it all with my family, I’m not sure it gets better than that,” Brewer said.
The campaign shoot was not just about work; it was also a memorable adventure for her daughter and niece, who were thrilled to be on set. “The girls loved it! Of course, it was a long day, and there were moments when they were tired and needed a break. But the film crew was amazing and so helpful and kind to us and our kids,” Brewer said. The crew even went out
Even the local food trucks were included in the Munising overview, appealing to all the senses. (Photo courtesy of Eric Machiela)
of their way to make the young ones feel special, offering them stuffed animals and keeping them stocked with snacks throughout the day.
One of the more lighthearted moments came while filming in kayaks along the stunning Pictured Rocks shoreline. “There were crew members in the water filming us up close as we kayaked by them,” Brewer said. “The number of times I said to the girls ‘smile and don’t look at the camera’ under my breath as we were passing right by the cameras… that should be the tagline for the day!”
Being part of a campaign that would air nationwide was both exhilarating and humbling for Brewer. “I get butterflies in my stomach every time I think about seeing the finished production on TV,” she said. “The beauty of this place is unmatched, and the community makes it even more special. We were honored to be able to participate in this commercial and show the immense beauty of this place.”
“Pictured Rocks Kayaking was happy to work with the Pure Michigan film crew and provide them the assistance they needed to promote our beautiful area,” Phillipson said.
ing during the busy tourist season, Machiela was relieved by the efficient coordination and expertise provided by Phillipson and her team. Their support enabled the crew to access key locations, such as Spray Falls, Chapel Rock and Miners Castle, with remarkGoPro cameras were attached to the kayaks to get some close-and-personal water footage to help showcase the beauty of the area to the nationwide audience. (Photo courtesy of Eric Machiela)
Machiela emphasized how crucial
Pictured Rocks Kayaking provided some of the most breathtaking shots in the Pure Michigan campaign. Led by Captain Deidre Phillipson, the crew was able to film kayakers gliding past the towering cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, capturing the area from a variety of perspectives.
it was to have the right support from local operators like Pictured Rocks Kayaking. “They saved our butts because I needed a boat that was fast and could easily get kayaks in and out of the water quickly,” he said. Initially concerned about the logistics of film-
able speed and ease.
The logistical challenges of shooting on water were significant, but the collaboration with Pictured Rocks Kayaking made it possible to capture footage that truly conveyed the grandeur of the Lakeshore. Machiela said it was important to work with local experts who understand the terrain and conditions.
“Without them, we would’ve only been able to film at a couple of spots,” he said, noting the crucial role Pictured Rocks Kayaking played in the production. Their deep knowledge of the area and seamless operations allowed the crew to focus on creating captivating visuals that would inspire audiences to explore Michigan’s natural wonders.
The shots taken from kayaks provided a unique perspective, allowing viewers to feel as if they were paddling right alongside the cliffs, while the aerial views captured the vastness and beauty of the National Lakeshore.
“The unpredictability of the weather and the logistics of moving gear between locations were challenging, but it was worth it,” said Jackson Ezinga, First Assistant Director from Grand Rapids. His favorite moment was filming Captain Matson steering the boat with a bald eagle soaring above. “Chuck was navigating the boat, and suddenly, this eagle just swoops down and skims the water. We were all holding our breath, hoping to get the shot. It felt like nature was collaborating with us.”
Cori-Ann Cearley, President of the Munising Visitors Bureau, noted the importance of tourism in sustaining
the local economy and the significance of the Pure Michigan campaign.
“Tourism is not just about the numbers; it’s about the real impact on our community,” Cearley said. “From funding essential community projects to supporting local businesses, the ripple effect of every tourist dollar is profound. It supports everyone, from our shop owners to our auto mechanics, in ways many people don’t realize. The Pure Michigan campaign is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Munising’s beauty on a larger stage and remind people why this place is so special. We’re proud to be part of it and ensure that tourism benefits everyone here, not just the visitors.”
The campaign, set to launch early next year, aims to showcase Munising not just as a destination but as a place with a unique character and history. “We hope people see Munising for what it is — a place where adventure and community thrive together,” Wolgamott said.
As the production team wrapped up their final shots and prepared to leave, they left Munising with a visual memory of its rugged beauty and welcoming spirit. Through the lens of Pure Michigan, viewers across the state and beyond will get a glimpse of what makes this corner of the Upper Peninsula a truly special place.
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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.
The Pure Michigan shoot was punctuated by Han, the Matson’s dog, who ate up the attention and added to the fun. (Photo by Jennifer Champagne)
Celebrating a decade the arts
41 North Film Festival continues to honor independent cinema
By Jennifer Champagne
Houghton will once again welcome the annual 41 North Film Festival, held from November 7-10 this year, to celebrate a decade of bringing independent films from around the world to the Upper Peninsula.
Held at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts on Michigan Tech’s campus, the festival has evolved into one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events, offering audiences not just films, but unique opportunities for discussion, connection and education.
The festival was founded by Dr. Erin Smith, Director of Humanities
Digital Media and a professor at Michigan Tech. What began in 2006 as a small, two-day event has since grown into a major film showcase.
“It started as the Northern Lights Film Festival in our black box theater,” Smith said. “We just wanted to create a space where students and community members could come together and watch films. It’s always been about the shared experience of cinema.”
In 2014, the festival expanded its reach and rebranded as the 41 North Film Festival, named after the highway that runs through Houghton. Moving into the much larger Rozsa Center allowed the festival to accom-
modate larger audiences and bring in nationally recognized filmmakers.
“That shift was a turning point,” Smith said. “We started showing films that were being featured in festivals across the country and became a part of that larger conversation.”
While Smith is the guiding force behind the festival, she is quick to point out that it’s a team effort.
“I couldn’t do this alone,” she said. “There are so many people who have helped make this festival what it is today. Whether it’s volunteers, faculty members or the filmmakers themselves, everyone contributes to the festival’s success.”
One of the key figures in this effort is volunteer coordinator Allison Neely, who has been instrumental in attracting and retaining the festival’s dedicated group of volunteers. “We attract volunteers through word of
mouth,” Neely said. “A lot of them are repeat volunteers or festival-goers who want to be a part of the event in a different way. We make it easy and flexible for people with busy schedules, which is why many come back year after year. It’s a lot of fun, and they get to see the films, too.”
Neely said the qualities she looks for in volunteers are a passion for the festival and a love of cinema. “The ones that stand out to me are the people who are already combing through the list of films, making their own ‘must-see’ list. They’re the ones who genuinely care about the success of the event.”
The 41 North Film Festival isn’t just about watching films — it’s about engagement and conversation. Smith has always emphasized the importance of post-film discussions, often featuring local experts, filmmakers
“Voices of Light: The Passion of Joan of Arc” by Richard Einhorn was performed live at the flm festival in 2017. (Photo courtesy of Erin Smith)
and faculty members.
“We want to make the experience more than just passive viewing,” Smith said. “The panel discussions allow the audience to explore the themes of the films more deeply and see how they connect to what’s happening in the world around them.”
Kathy Halvorsen, Associate Vice President for Research Development at Michigan Tech, shares this sentiment: “My role as a panelist, and also as an audience member at many other films, helped me realize that we can come together as a community to discuss films in a way that fosters meaningful conversations about important issues. When I was a panelist for a film about biodiversity in a rural community, I appreciated the opportunity to engage with many community members on the topic.”
Rolf Peterson, research professor at Michigan Tech who has participated in panel discussions, said “The films are challenging, often unconventional, and can spark conversations in the community that are important and perhaps difficult. The festival takes risks and shows new work and is not afraid to provide a launching pad for young filmmakers who may not yet have the clout to screen at other festivals in the country.”
One of the festival’s signature elements is the way it pairs local academics with films that resonate with their expertise. “For a documentary called ‘All That Breathes,’ we had David Flaspohler, a professor in the college of forest resources and environmental science, on a panel,” Smith
said. “The film is about two brothers in India who start a bird hospital to rescue raptors affected by pollution. David and others on the panel provided local and scientific perspectives that added depth to the film and gave the audience something to think about long after the credits rolled.”
Heather Courtney, an Emmy-winning filmmaker who grew up in
Houghton, has been involved with the 41 North Film Festival, including screening her documentary “The Unafraid.”
“It was a large crowd, and a very engaged audience,” Courtney said. “Even though the film is about an issue (immigration) that doesn’t really affect the U.P., the audience members are really connected with the story
and the people in the film. That’s why I make documentary films: to make those connections and have audience members see a little of themselves in the people on the screen, even if their lives are very different.”
Courtney also praised the festival for its unique offering to the community. “The value of 41 North (and other local or regional film fests) is
Pulitzer-prize winning author Ron Suskind takes the stage to talk about “Life, Animated,” a 2016 documentary by Roger Ross Williams, at the 41 North Film Festival in 2016. (Photo courtesy of Erin Smith)
that it brings films to a community that doesn’t normally have access to those kinds of films, especially the local community, along with the student population,” she said. “These are not films that screen at the local mall movie theater and are often not available to stream, so it’s a real service to the community to bring this kind of cultural experience to the Copper Country.”
Kathy Halvorsen also noted the festival’s role in fostering meaningful community discussions. “Independent cinema can raise important questions, and viewing films together and discussing them can help us as a community identify and more deeply understand a variety of questions that we might not otherwise recognize,” she said.
This year’s lineup promises to continue the tradition of combining thought-provoking films with engaging discussions. One of the most anticipated events of this year’s festival is the screening of “Eno,” a documentary about the legendary musician Brian Eno. What makes this film particularly special is its unique format — it is generated freshly each time it is shown.
“This is an extraordinary film,” Smith said. “Gary Hustwit, the filmmaker, will be presenting it live, and it will be different each time it plays. That’s something you can’t experience anywhere else, and we’re excited to bring it to our audience.”
Hustwit’s approach with “Eno,” which uses generative software to create a different version of the film for every screening, reflects Eno’s inno-
vative spirit and boundless creativity. The film premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival and is expected to captivate festival attendees with its constantly evolving format.
The festival also has a strong connection to Michigan Tech’s academic departments. “We’ve collaborated with the College of Computing and the Institute of Cybersecurity on events like the ‘Eno’ screening,” Smith said. “When we find films that align with the work happening on campus, we reach out to faculty to create these interdisciplinary connections. It’s all about bridging the gap between art and science.” These collaborations provide a deeper context to the screenings, allowing students and faculty to engage with the innovative technologies showcased in films like “Eno.”
In addition to “Eno,” the festival will feature other major events with filmmakers and panels in attendance:
• “Agent of Happiness” — Directed by Arun Bhattarai and Dorottya Zurbó, this documentary explores Bhutan’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, offering a profound look into how this concept has shaped the country’s culture and policies. The film examines the lives of Bhutanese citizens as they navigate a system that prioritizes well-being over economic growth.
• “Small Town Universe” — Directed by Katie Dellamaggiore, this film delves into the Green Bank Observatory in West Virginia, a unique town where modern technology is restricted to avoid interference with scientific instruments. The documen-
A panel of Michigan Tech professors Jared Anderson, Kette Thomas and Rich Canevez discuss “The Mission.” (Photo courtesy of Erin Smith)
tary not only highlights the scientific work being done but also provides a glimpse into the residents’ unusual way of life.
• “Bad River” — Directed by Mary Mazzio, this documentary focuses on the environmental and cultural importance of the Bad River in Northern Wisconsin. It captures the struggles of Native American tribes as they work to preserve their land and water amidst environmental challenges.
• “Eternal You” — Directed by Hans Block and Moritz Riesewieck, this thought-provoking documentary examines the use of artificial intelligence to cope with grief. The film follows individuals who use AI to create digital versions of deceased loved ones, raising deep questions about memory, legacy and human connection.
Each of these films serves as a reflection of the festival’s commitment to addressing contemporary issues, from environmental conservation and scientific exploration to technology’s impact on human relationships and happiness. These screenings, along with panel discussions, create a thoughtful platform for introspection and dialogue, continuing the festival’s mission of connecting art, technology and societal issues.
Another unique aspect of the festival is its emphasis on local talent. Justin Jones, a filmmaker originally from Calumet, has been based in Chicago for the past ten years. A Michigan Tech graduate, Jones had his documentaries featured at the festival in past years.
“Justin has been involved with us from the beginning,” Smith said. “It’s
great to see our former students succeeding in the film industry and continuing to be a part of what we’re doing here.”
Jones’ journey from Michigan Tech to the Chicago film scene is an example of the festival’s lasting impact on its participants. As a student, he found inspiration in the 41 North Film Festival, where his passion for filmmaking was nurtured. The festival not only provided him with a platform to showcase his work, such as his short film “Totalité” that debuted at the festival, but also helped him forge valuable connections within the industry. Now, as a Chicago-based filmmaker, he continues to stay connected to his collegiate roots in the Upper Peninsula.
“The 41 North Film Festival is where I learned the power of storytelling and connecting with an audience,” Jones said. “The opportunity to showcase my work in front of the local community and fellow students pushed me to grow as a filmmaker. I always look forward to returning and seeing how the festival continues to support and inspire new talent.”
The festival has grown in audience size as well, with some events packing the 1,067-seat Rozsa theater. “One of the most memorable moments was when Jimmy Chin came to present his documentary ‘Meru,’” Smith said. “It filled the theater, and people were thrilled to engage with someone of his caliber. It really put our festival on the map.”
The screening of “Everything Everywhere All at Once” was another highlight. “That night was pure magic,” Smith said. “The audience was so
Musician and mathematics professor Robert Schneider fields questions about “The Elephant 6 Recording Co.” documentary by C.B. Stockfleth at the 2023 film festival. (Photo courtesy of Erin Smith)
diverse — students, faculty and community members of all ages. Everyone was laughing together, and it just reinforced the power of film to bring people together.”
Volunteers like Paige Short, who began as a student staff member supporting Smith in the humanities department, have played a crucial role in the festival over the years. After transitioning from that department, Short continued her involvement by consulting on film selections and volunteering during the festival. She sees it as a true community event that fosters a sense of belonging.
“The festival brings together the campus community and the regional community to understand and discuss diverse perspectives and experiences,” Short said. “This increased representation allows more folks across campus and the community to see themselves, feel validated and build a sense of belonging.”
For Short, one of the most rewarding aspects of being involved with the festival is the opportunity to interact with filmmakers and the community. “I’ve gotten to meet Academy Award-nominated filmmakers, and I have been privileged to be part of conversations with documentary subjects and community members. These interactions are the secret sauce of the
festival, and I can’t begin to express how important they are.”
As the festival enters its second decade, Smith is looking forward to continuing its evolution. “There’s always room for growth,” she said. “I have some ideas for the future, but the most important thing is that we continue to foster these connections — between students, filmmakers and the community.”
For those who have never attended the 41 North Film Festival, Smith offers simple advice: “Pick a film you know you’ll enjoy, and one you know nothing about. That’s how you really open yourself up to new experiences.”
With the festival being free and open to the public, it’s an accessible cultural event that invites everyone to take part. “We’re always looking for volunteers,” Neely said. “It’s a great way to support the festival while also enjoying it from a different perspective.”
For details, visit 41northfilmfest. mtu.edu.
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.
Festival director Erin Smith and “Angelique’s Isle” filmmaker Michelle Derosier at the 2019 film festival. (Photo courtesy of Erin Smith)
Radio Results Network (RRN) news and sports announcer Jack Hall has been working in the business for three decades, and helped build the RRN Sports website into what it is today. (Photo
Veteran radio announcer reaches 30-year milestone sporting life
By Jim LaJoie
“I’m Jack Hall.” For three decades, listeners of WGLQ radio in Escanaba and the Radio Results Network sister stations have heard that familiar phrase when wrapping up news stories. They’ve listened to his play-by-play for hundreds, if not thousands, of high school and youth athletic contests.
Jack Hall began working as a news director at WGLQ in November 1994. A graduate of Northern Michigan University with a degree in communications and double minors in journalism and political science, Hall got his feet wet in sports working at The North Wind student newspaper and with the NMU’s Sports Information Department.
His calling proved to be in the radio industry. And, today, much like when he began three decades ago, he still
enjoys the rush of working in radio.
“I always loved it, even as a kid,” said Hall, a native of downstate Dearborn Heights. “I would turn on the sound for the basketball games, listen to George Blaha do the (Detroit) Pistons games and Ernie Harwell for the (Detroit) Tigers. I would listen and learn how it was done. They are all Hall of Famers, but you have to have your own way of doing it. That really got me interested.
“I majored in broadcasting, but it was the on-the-job training working with Vicky Crystal and Tom Feldhusen at WJPD where I was really taught.”
Feldhusen served as the news director of WJPD-AM radio for nearly 30 years. He passed away in 2023.
“Tom needed someone to operate the board for Detroit games, and then I did some Marquette Electricians (hockey) games,” he recalled. “And
they needed someone to do the midnight to 6 a.m. shift.”
That training ground ultimately launched the soft-spoken Hall into a successful radio career. He began his professional career as news director at two stations, one in Escanaba and another in Marquette.
The Radio Results Network has since blossomed into 15 stations, offering a vast array of music that is sure to meet the listening interests of many.
“I just do my thing and then make sure my check doesn’t bounce every two weeks,” he deadpanned.
Perhaps the best way to describe Hall and his eloquent delivery is the steadiness he has maintained for three decades. That, he notes, is very important to him.
“For news, it’s letting people know what is going on and bring out the voices in the community,” he said.
courtesy of Jack Hall)
“It’s not always good reporting, talking about a drunk driving accident that kills someone, or someone getting arrested, or angry relatives calling you and asking why I didn’t pick someone for player of the game. Everyone has their biases … I try to keep that out of my broadcasts and keep it neutral. I am paid to tell what is up and to keep it straight.”
He may be a veteran news guy, yet the 53-year-old Hall is a sports junky through and through.
“Sports gets me connected to the Little Leagues and high school kids,” he said. “I get to have that one-on-one contact with them. It’s more rewarding announcing that walk-off home run rather than giving the employment numbers of something.”
Whether 20 or 2,000 people are listening to his sports broadcasts, his on-air delivery remains a constant — steady and engaging, while painting an eloquent picture for listeners at home or in their vehicles.
“I don’t think about how many are listening, yet those who are listening are rabid fans,” he said. “We have a lot of business sponsors over these 30 years, and I just want people to listen and enjoy the broadcasts.”
Radio Results Network General Manager Jesse Huff said Hall’s hardwork ethic sets him apart from others in the business.
“When it comes to sports broadcasting, he’s not just coming in and broadcasting a game. He is interviewing coaches, student athletes and parents,” Huff said. “He’s writing fulllength articles, taking pictures and videos. He’s always ready to put the time in so we can have the best possible product on our airwaves and on our websites. His attention to detail in the fast-paced world of broadcasting is reflected in the quality and scope of his work.”
Hall said that scope of work varies.
“It’s really different from day to day. I can do news interviews from anywhere and record them at that person’s convenience,” he said. “I can record an interview with a congressman, go about other business and then go into the station at night and help (colleague) Don Curran. I feel (listeners) we need to hear from them, not me talking about legislation. I do sports at night. Really, you find the time to get the story out … it’s really worked out fine.”
Over the years, Hall has called a plethora of baseball, softball, basketball, football and hockey games. Perhaps, though, one of his crowning achievements is playing an integral role in creating the RRNSports.com website, arguably the most compre-
hensive site in the Upper Peninsula. There, viewers can get up-to-minute high school scores, as well as access to game recaps at the youth, high school, collegiate and professional levels.
He and station colleagues put in countless hours to ensure sports fans are getting the news they crave.
“My GM, Jesse Huff, was the sales manager in 2006 and really wanted to get our sports online,” he recalled. “We worked with another guy to get it going. It started off with a couple of scores. Then we put some pictures up there. It got bigger and bigger. We redesigned it in 2012 and will be going through a redesign again.
“I put a lot of time into it. It’s not about me, though, it’s about the kids and giving them some publicity,” Hall added. “It’s multimedia and the Internet is an important part. Northern and Michigan Tech supply us content and allow us to put the info up there. When I’m broadcasting games, I will start filing, get a video of a touchdown and try to put that up there. I spent a couple of hours a night on it. I want it to look a certain way so people like it. We’ve been able to grow it and modernize it.”
Huff praised Hall for being keenly adept at “juggling multiple sportscasts and news stories simultaneously.”
“He has a sharp focus on accuracy and engaging storytelling” Huff said. “He’s always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our audience stays informed and entertained.
“Jack’s talent and work ethic are
the two main characteristics that make him one of the premier broadcasters in Upper Michigan. He has proven time and again his willingness to go above and beyond to cover a news story by digging deeper and asking more questions. We’ve had large market broadcasters try and hire him over the years, yet he has always chosen to stay home in Upper Michigan.”
Of the numerous sports he has done play-by-play for, he acknowledges that hockey has been his love for all his life. Yet …
“The sport that gives me the best view and I’m close to people is baseball. I mean, you’re right there, 25 feet away from parents and grandparents” he said. “The kids can hear the broadcasts. Now, I am doing broadcasts of kids who are from parents I broadcast games years ago.”
Asked if any games stand out in his sports announcing career, he fondly remembers a couple.
“There was a high school hockey game in Marquette against the Escanaba Eskymos, and [the Eskymos] went into Lakeview Arena and beat them. The referee, though, ruled out the goal and the win was taken away because of a mistake by the official,” he said. “Another was when the Gladstone Braves baseball team played Muskegon Oakridge and trailed the whole game. We had a walk-off home run that sent us to the next round. I also did games when the 12-year-old girls went to the World Series.”
Games he would like to do, to put
a button on a longstanding career in radio, involve some of the local teams going all the way. “I’d love to see a state championship with Escanaba Eskymos hockey. They have a shot and are really good. And I would love to see one of our teams make it to Williamsport, Pennsylvania (for the Little League World Series).”
So, after carving out a successful career in radio, what advice does Hall have for students aspiring to pursue a career in radio?
“Keep your eyes and ears open and listen to a wide variety of games,” he said. “Listen to what other people are doing and expect weird hours from time to time. It’s about connecting with people.”
In his career, he’s turned down other professional broadcast opportunities. And, he has no plans to leave.
“When I went to NMU, I worked a couple of months at a station in Ann Arbor for the summer and after I graduated, I got a job in South Haven,” he said. “I came up here for a visit for a job and never left. I love the U.P. and being here. I’m not the kind of guy who would like to drive 45 minutes in bumper-to-bumper traffic to do interviews. Money is not that important to me. I have no desire to leave.”
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.
Jack Hall, right, visits with manager Andy Fields prior to Little League World Series game in Delaware. Fields was the manager of the Escanaba Big League girls softball team. (Photo courtesy of Jack Hall)
Performance for a Lifetime locals
Retired teacher continues to inspire future musicians
By Brad Gischia
Janis Peterson was given the opportunity as a Michigan State graduate working on her master’s to move to the Upper Peninsula for work. Her answer, several times in fact, was “Nope. I’m a city girl.”
After a dogged pursuit and multiple queries, Peterson relented.
“The drive across the U.P. was… how can I explain…78 degrees, the wildflowers were blooming on both sides of the road, Lake Michigan was beautiful and Lake Superior was better. I never wanted to leave,” Peterson said.
She didn’t, and made a home in the Marquette area and built a community instead.
Peterson grew up in Plymouth, a western suburb of Detroit. Her mother was a musician who gave piano and voice lessons. “I probably sat in her lap while she was working,” Peterson said. As she grew up, she took violin lessons at the University of Michigan and started college there. After her mother passed away from breast cancer, she transferred to Michigan State.
“I thought for a long time that I would be in the medical field,” Peterson said. Her mother’s passing pushed her towards oncology. She had the chance to go to a music clinic taught by Josef Gingold. Gingold was, at this time, a world-renowned violinist and taught at the Curtis Institute in Philadelphia. “He got excited when we played a scale,” Peterson said. “Between my mother’s love of music and that experience, I decided that day that I would teach music.”
With a newly minted diploma on her resumé, she was approached by Doug Graves from Northern Michigan University’s music department.
“He wanted to know if I would come and be a graduate assistant in violin,” Peterson said. The aforementioned “no” did nothing to dissuade
Graves, who kept at it until he convinced Peterson to come north.
“I didn’t think it was a place I could thrive,” Peterson said.
After two years as a graduate assistant, Peterson was fitting in nicely, giving lessons and finishing her degree.
“One of my private students was the son of the superintendent of schools in Marquette,” Peterson said. “He came to my office one day and asked
for a ride home as his car had broken down.” During the drive, the superintendent asked Peterson’s opinion on the state of the school orchestra and what she might do to fix it.
“I found out later that it was an interview and that his car had actually not even broken down,” Peterson said.
Peterson took the offered job, walking into the orchestra room on the first day of class to a total of nine string
players — no cello, one bass.
Thirty-seven years later when she walked out, there were two orchestras with about 40 students per class.
So how does one build a music program? Peterson said she would have liked to know. Instead, she made it up as she went along.
“At first, it was trial and error,” Peterson said. “I was a young teacher. I was idealistic and had a lot of enthusiasm. I went in with that and the idea that every classroom should have love in it — the students need to know that you care about them — and I did. It came very naturally.”
Peterson took her love of music and showed the students how special it was. “I wanted to build a safe haven in my classroom. If I didn’t enjoy it, then the students wouldn’t either. If I wasn’t inspired, then they wouldn’t be inspired, so I was constantly looking for inspiring things to bring into the school.”
Peterson went out of her way to bring musicians in. She took a group of 24 kids to Chicago on a bus, which sounds nothing short of terrifying in its own right.
Occasionally a job opportunity would arise, the chance to work in a big city somewhere like she had always wanted when in school.
“I always said I can’t leave yet — it’s not ready,” Peterson said. “I just couldn’t leave until I knew that the program would be stable enough to survive.”
As if building an orchestral program nearly from scratch wasn’t enough, Peterson wasn’t quite done putting her musical stamp on the Marquette area.
“When I was in high school, I played in three different orchestras — the Michigan Youth Orchestra, the Scandinavian Youth Orchestra and the Plymouth Symphony,” Peterson said. “When I got up here, there was no community orchestra.”
Part of what Peterson was doing, and part of the point of music education, is to fill the community with musicians. “After 10 years, I hoped there would be enough musicians to fill the sections,” Peterson said.
In 1996, Peterson and the head of the music department at NMU, Don Grant, decided it was time to get an orchestra together.
Above, Janis Peterson has taught music at the high school and college levels, and also gives private lessons. (Photo courtesy of Janis Peterson) She has given of her time to perform at many community events at a variety of venues as well. (Photo courtesy of Betsy Grugin)
“I’d heard that there was no orchestra because people couldn’t get along,” Peterson said. “Once the music starts though, everyone puts their differences aside.”
With the help of other musicians in the community, the Marquette Symphony Orchestra (MSO) was born and continued to grow, despite the high demand for talent.
“You can’t just play with the MSO after playing in high school,” Peterson said. “You have to take private lessons, go to solo and ensemble, music camps, you have to do all of the extras there are. You have to have a good instrument, put in a lot of hard work and then maybe you’ll be good enough.”
From its inception, Peterson was the concertmaster, a role which traditionally is the conduit between the conductor and the orchestra.
Although Marquette is the largest city in the Upper Peninsula, it still is small in relative terms. There are a lot of things that have to be done in an orchestra that fall upon the concertmaster. The artistic advisory committee chooses who the conductor will be, when rehearsals take place and what music will be played. Peterson was involved with all of this as well.
“There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work,” Peterson said. “It’s amazing how many people it takes to put on a concert — the nuts and bolts of what has to happen. I just kept taking things on. I always say it takes a village to raise a child, but it takes a metropolis to have an orchestra concert.”
“Janis does a little more than everyone at everything,” said MSO member
Janis Peterson, front left, was concertmaster for the Marquette Symphony Orchestra for many years, and now continues to perform, playing the viola. (Photo courtesy of Janis Peterson)
Betsy Grugin. “She’s just that kind of person.” Grugin, who taught band at NICE schools since it opened 27 years ago, has known Peterson since she took over as the operations manager for the MSO in the mid 2000s.
The operations manager does all of the work to get the musicians to the venue on time, makes sure there is a
venue and myriad other things to get ready for a performance. It stands that this person would have to work closely with the concertmaster.
“She’s hugely instrumental,” Grugin said, without intending the pun. “So many things that we have in the area wouldn’t exist without her.”
Grugin said at the time Peterson
came to the area, the Marquette City Band was there, but there were few places for string players to go.
“Not only did she work hard to get the MSO together, she also founded the MSO board, and even after she retired she stayed on with the Artistic Advisory Committee until this past year,” she said.
Since starting the MSO, Peterson has missed only three performances in more than 30 years of winter orchestral concerts, summer strings performances and children’s concerts. It’s a level of dedication that may seem foreign today.
Peterson retired from MSHS in 2015, and gave up the concertmaster position in April of this year. Grugin said it will be hard to fill the role that Peterson has vacated.
“There are people who dream up ideas for other people to do,” Grugin said. “Janis is different because she does them. She comes up with great ideas and follows through with them.”
Some of Peterson’s favorite memories involved the annual children’s concert. Area schools are invited to bring their kids to NMU’s Forest Roberts Theater for a special MSO performance.
“It’s a really hectic time for the musicians,” Peterson said. “For a regular concert, we have practice Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning for a Saturday evening concert. It doesn’t matter how old you are, you’re tired at the end of the week.” During the week of the children’s concert, there is an additional rehearsal on Sunday night and the performers have to clear their work schedule on Monday.
“It doesn’t matter how exhausted we are, as soon as we start playing for these kids, it’s like our faces are breaking because we’re smiling so much,” Peterson said.
It’s sometimes a struggle to convince educators that there is value in getting kids to these shows, but Peterson said after the performance, they understand. “They become converts — they’re complete fans afterwards,” Peterson said.
Peterson has come to realize something in her years of educating and performing that she has intuitively known her entire life — music is important in more ways than one.
“There’s a lot of new research that’s happening with music,” Peterson said. “People are studying the neural pathways that are made when you learn music, especially at a young age. Those pathways stay there for your entire life, even if you stop playing.”
Grugin agrees about the importance of music and learning.
“There are so many skills that you’re learning at the same time, in bands especially, where you have to think about breathing as well as learning to play the instrument,” he said. “It really helps to develop a lot of different skills in a person. Music is like a foreign language in that way.”
Grugin said she’s noticed as well that students learn to focus, to practice on things that are important to them. “You only get one chance at that holiday concert, you want to make sure it’s as good as you can make it,” Grugin said.
Peterson has no real plans for what one might consider a retirement. She has taken on a short-term teaching position at NMU, and continues giving
Janis Peterson embraced the Marquette community and its opportunities and events when she moved to the U.P., even performing at the annual Hiawatha Music Festival. (Photo courtesy of Betsy Grugin)
private lessons and plays viola in the MSO.
“I really love it,” Peterson said. “It’s a different sound than the violin, and it’s good to keep trying new things.”
As far as teaching goes, it seems that she might not be ready to give that up either. “You can see so much growth in just one rehearsal at a college level,” Peterson said. “I can’t even control myself sometimes standing in front of these students, and I’ll say ‘oh my God, did you hear that?’ I’m throwing my arms in the air. It’s amazing.” It seems that Peterson has come full circle, becoming very much the same kind of teacher that Josef Gingold was when he inspired her as a student.
The impact of Janis Peterson cannot be overlooked in the community.
“There are a lot of things that wouldn’t be here if we didn’t have Janis,” Grugin said.
Peterson said she was inspired by the type of people who choose to live in the area.
“One of the reasons I wanted to stay here when I graduated is that the people of Marquette were so supportive. They were willing to drive their kids to lessons and buy instruments and volunteer and help out,” Peterson said. “This is a really unique commu-
nity. People care about the arts and being physically fit and having this clean air, clean water and beautiful area. Things happen in Marquette because of the quality of people in this place. If it weren’t for the support of the audience and the board members and the musicians, none of this would be possible. The MSO is bigger than all of us. It isn’t one person that makes it happen.”
But the music that has been cultivated in the community through Peterson’s efforts has certainly added to the overall artistic beauty of the area.
“Music heals my soul,” Peterson said. “That’s the whole point. When you’re up there playing a concert, it’s your job to heal the souls of the people who are listening. I’m glad that I can continue the work that Josef Gingold did. If I reach one person, inspire just one, then they can continue my work.”
Based on that rubric, Peterson’s name will be on the lips of Marquette residents for many years to come.
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.
Peterson brought the MSHS program from a small group of musicians to two 40-student classes in her tenure. (Photo courtesy of Janis Peterson)
Skandia couple takes former Idol star under their wings the arts
By Kristy Basolo
As the sun goes down, the fire warms the handful of people gathered around it, and the anonymity provided by the darkness in Skandia warms Cam’s voice.
He has an easy smile and a gentle soul, and explains the meaning behind each of his original songs to the half-dozen people around the firepit. It’s important to him that this makeshift audience understands what they’re about to hear.
The power of his gift comes through, uninhibited with only a handful of people listening — his gift of a beautiful voice and a storyteller’s soul. But for Cam Amen, that isn’t always the case.
Best known to music enthusiasts as a platinum ticket winner on the 2023 season of American Idol, Amen didn’t advance to the final rounds as expected. The platinum ticket allows contestants who stand out in their auditions to skip the first round of Hollywood Week, but it didn’t give him the advantage he needed.
“I think it’s part of not believing in myself,” he told judge Lionel Richie on American Idol.
But there were moments of brilliance in his performance, Richie said.
Unexpected U.P. connections
Amen came to know Skandia residents Jolene Kunde and Josh Thatcher through a mutual friend, the way people making their way through unconventional paths in life do. He first met Thatcher through a promoter they both had connections with.
The couple was looking to raise money for their 2023 Dancing With Our Stars campaign. Amen was looking for any opportunity to promote his music and agreed to come north. He performed at The Up North Lodge in Gwinn, but more importantly, made some important friends in Kunde and Thatcher.
Upon picking him up, Amen told Thatcher he had a relative in Michigan, and asked Thatcher if he would bring him to see her. Thatcher, not normally at a loss for words, tried politely not to commit.
Cam Amen has done photo shoots, healing sessions and a lot of self work in the U.P. to help build his confidence and jump start his musical career after his rise to fame on American Idol. (Photo
“Michigan is a big state, so I told Cam I’d be willing as long as it wasn’t more than a few hours away,” he said. After a little digging, Amen discovered the name of the town.
“Ishpeming?” he said.
“I think we can make that drive,” Thatcher chuckled.
Upon meeting up with his aunt, he received a songbook of her poetry.
“It all came full circle,” he said. “I found later that she had wrote something in the back of that book for me. She told me to keep going, no matter
who tries to stop me. She said I need to keep doing this for me.”
The stars continued to align. Amen said his first time getting paid for a gig was talking to the foster kids in Marquette County.
“It was one of those things where it was his passion, and just a bonus that he got paid for it,” Thatcher said.
Amen came back to speak to the foster kids again this year.
“Those kids didn’t expect me to come back,” he said. “They are used to people not coming back.”
This fall, Amen returned to the U.P. to record video footage of him performing his new music. This was on the heels of traveling to Colorado Sound Studios to record his first six original songs with Steve Avedis, who won an Emmy and other awards, and worked with everyone from Tony Bennett to NSYNC.
Thatcher, who researched and visited many recording studios before booking time with Avedis, knew this was the guy for the job. With more than 30 years of experience, Avedis did not disappoint.
Admittedly, Avedis had no expectations for the no-names from Michigan who booked time in his studio out of the blue. And then Amen began to sing.
“Steve is just sitting there with his headphones on, and says, ‘How do you guys know him, and where did he come from?’” Thatcher said. “He couldn’t believe Cam’s voice, and how few times it took for him to get the song to record quality.”
Amen recorded six singles in three days. Then he and Thatcher started talking release dates and advertising.
“It made the most sense for him to start with his own, original music to start advancing his career,” Thatcher said. “You can sing covers all day, but that doesn’t take you to the level he wants to be at.”
Next was the trek to the U.P. to shoot video to promote the songs.
“Growing up in the ’90s, I wanted him to do music videos,” Kunde said. “There’s something about seeing the artist perform and what their interpretation of the song is.”
Amen performed his songs in various places in Marquette County, including at the baby grand piano in the Landmark Inn. A lucky wedding party got to spectate and meet him.
“I like the U.P.,” Amen said. “It’s beautiful, and not overcrowded. People don’t swarm you.”
Kunde leaves the technical aspects to Thatcher, as she has other things she’s working on with Amen.
“Growing up in foster care, I felt like I didn’t have a voice,” he said. And he’s said that on TV, in his audio book and even when explaining his
by Jolene Kunde)
songs. He also admits he doesn’t have a lot of faith in people, as they haven’t always followed through for him.
But Kunde and Thatcher are different.
“When I was first told about you guys, I was told you were a little weird,” he says with a twinkle in his eye.
“What?” the couple says in unison, but also in jest. Thatcher is a professional poker player, and dabbles in many other things, from life coaching to real estate, and now manages an aspiring singer-songwriter. Kunde is a spiritual healer who has studied shamanism in Peru and a professional photographer who specializes in building people’s confidence in themselves. Amen has allowed them to take him under their wings.
“I kind of took a chance on them. A lot of people promised me big things in my life, but they didn’t follow through,” Amen said. “Josh and Jolene have always followed through.”
While his passion for music has always been there, he said it’s been his lack of confidence that has held him back.
“We’re working on that,” Kunde said with a knowing smile. “He’s had healing sessions with me, and others. After a recent ceremony, he wrote ‘I Feel Loved,’ and now he’s just been on fire. It’s so great to see him open up and let all of that out now.”
Kunde also has done photo shoots with Amen to help him build his
self-esteem. He’s quick to say that this journey has not been an easy one.
“It’s important for people to realize that you have to do the work,” Amen said. “It’s self-love. No one else is healing for you. You just can’t give up on yourself.”
Born and raised in Indianapolis, Amen has made his home at various places in the country, raising his siblings in Florida, and now lives in Nebraska with his girlfriend, daughter and bonus son and daughter.
In his audio book, “I Am, I Can,
Above, Amen shot video at McCarty’s Cove in Marquette for his upcoming song releases. Below, Jolene Kunde, Amen and Josh Thatcher share a moment during their adventures. (Photos courtesy of Jolene Kunde)
I Will: A Survivor’s Story” he said, “Shifting from one home to another, I was a leaf caught in a relentless gust with little to ground me. But amidst the upheaval, music emerged as my steadfast pillar, providing a comforting harmony within the discordance of my life.”
When he was 11 years old, Amen and his siblings were taken from their mother. They turned to their faith and music to survive as they navigated the foster system. When he was old enough, he made the decision to raise his younger siblings by himself. Much of his music is about that journey, his strained family ties and his hope for future healing.
He recently debuted his new song, “I’m Okay,” on TV6’s Upper Michigan Today. That one he hopes his estranged mother will hear.
“Growing up it was hard reaching out to my mom, getting her help,” he said. “I stayed strong through all that. This song is about that — hear me now, Mom. All that pain that you put in me now came out in something good.”
But all of that is in the past as Amen
continues to move forward with his ambitions. His second song, “Truth,” will be available on more than 40 platforms on Nov. 1. After that, he will continue to release one song a month.
Back at the fire, Amen sings his rendition of “Killing Me Softly” and a memorable version of “Tennessee Whiskey” in his very own style. His voice cuts through the forest, and even the wildlife is still, listening.
Now, he’s just toying with his small audience, giving them a glimpse of all the brilliance he’s got to offer.
“Have you noticed there isn’t very much soul music out there right now?” he says, whimsically. “I’m hoping to bring it back.”
For details, visit camamenofficial. com or follow Amen on Facebook and other social media platforms via @camamen23.
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Kristy Basolo is a Marquette Monthly managing editor and has a master’s degree in writing from NMU. Her day job is as senior center director in Negaunee.
Cam Amen recorded video for his upcoming “Self-Love” album in various places throughout Marquette County, including the Landmark Inn and McCarty’s Cove. (Photo courtesy of Jolene Kunde)
the arts
Album captures musician’s journey
By Andie Balenger
November is a month of gratitude. As the sun starts to set over Lake Superior earlier in the evening, its reflection glittering atop the lapping waves, you cannot help but be overcome by an immense wave of appreciation. Gichigami is an incredible life source for all of us, and the simple act of giving thanks for its beauty, gifts and power may seem to pale compared to its awesomeness.
We all cherish easy access to Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. From scuba diving to surfing, swimming to admiring, our community’s deep connection to water is inherent and spans generations.
This fact is especially true for Noah Bauer, a local musician who grew up in Manistique before heading north to reside in Marquette.
“Water has always been a big part of my life,” Bauer said. “I really love Lake Superior and grew up on Lake Michigan. I feel very attached to that element and feel most at home when I am in the water.”
While water has been the constant thread in Bauer’s life, it became interlaced with music at a young age. The musician grew up surrounded by the classical stylings of Beethoven and
Vince Guaraldi, thanks partly to his brother’s skills on the family piano. Bauer started piano lessons in third grade before transitioning to percussion as a middle and high school band student. However, it was not until college that he seriously committed to learning the guitar, and songwriting ultimately followed.
After spending several years rehashing lyrics, whistling melodies and honing his finger-picking skills, Bauer’s love of water and music coincided with the release of his first fulllength album, “Lunitidal Interval” in late July 2024.
“This album captures all of me in a nutshell, as a musician and person, because it has the very first song I ever wrote on it and some of the newest songs I had written when I was recording it,” Bauer said. “There are different chapters in it that show the different sides of me and some silliness and laughter. The album is a microcosm of me.”
With ten tracks and a runtime of 74 minutes, “Lunitidal Interval” explores what it means to wait in anticipation of progressive change in the modern day. While a myriad of genres inspired the album, Bauer describes its sound as progressive jazz folk with world music and rock flavors. Although each song on the album was written
Manistique musician Noah Bauer spent years hashing out the lyrics and melodies included on his first album. (Photo by Jacob Darner)
independently, a powerful theme of the Earth and its diverse inhabitants weaves them together, creating a cohesive listening experience.
“Most of my writing dwells on the topic of the Earth being a superorganism, and all of humanity and life on Earth are cells in the body,” Bauer said. “When the cells work together, it allows for a healthy and harmonious body. But, when the cells are hurting the body or hurting each other, then it’s a detriment to themselves as well and everything else around.”
The album explores this concept of interdependence through Bauer’s diverse range of musical styles and stark yet powerful lyricism, which reflect the musician’s expansive taste in music. In describing his musical philosophy, Bauer is firmly committed to diversifying sound.
While he loves classics by The Beatles and The Grateful Dead, Bauer is also heavily influenced by the intricate stylings of jazz musicians like Chick Corea and Ryo Fukui. He also enjoys world music, like Irish, African and Latin American tunes.
“I always appreciated people who forged a very unique sound and also people who can do a little bit of anything,” Bauer said. “My philosophy has always been to diversify and listen to as many types of music as possible. I try to pull from a million different sources, so the result is different than any of the one little traces of DNA.”
“Lunitidal Interval” is a genuine expression of Bauer’s experiences as a musician and a living being, which is reflected in the album’s cover art by Bradley Blair. A long-time friend of Bauer, Blair is a local artist specializing in woodcuts (relief carving), printmaking and watercolor.
In collaborating on the album art, Bauer wanted Blair’s help to expand upon the album’s water theme. Blair instantly thought of the moon, and the woodcut cover art fell into place. The final touch of octopus tentacles reaching out of the water and trying to grab the moon represents Bauer’s desire for the change that comes with high tide.
“We have been friends for a long time, and I wanted to help him create this vision I know he had,” Blair said. “It was a great challenge for what I like to do and how I typically work. It is always interesting to try and capture someone else’s vision.”
From reflective songs like “What it Takes (Curses in Cursive)” that delve into his struggles with anxiety and depression to instrumental pieces like “The Ocean Awakens” that demonstrate how Bauer sees the world through music, the themes
of “Lunitidal Interval” ebb and flow similarly to the tides. However, “Portrait of Clarity” may best encapsulate Bauer’s ongoing exploration of the interdependence between living beings, ecosystems and the Earth. The track shifts between Bauer’s and the earth’s perspectives, tangling to demonstrate how individuals and the planet coexist.
“‘Portrait of Clarity’ is when, individually, just one cell in the body can see all things through the eyes of the entire planet,” Bauer said. “We are the droplet, but we are also the ocean. We are the wave, but we are also the ocean.”
While the album’s overarching
theme of interdependence may best be seen in “Portrait of Clarity,” the track also represents Bauer’s growth as an artist. Despite the chorus progression for the track being one of the first things Bauer came up with on the guitar, he sat on it for several years, not knowing where it belonged.
After five years of continued work as a lyricist and instrumentalist, he developed the track’s verse progression. After four more years, he developed an intro and outro for the piece.
“It was pretty much an amalgamation of my entire trajectory as an instrumentalist on guitar and a songwriter,” Bauer said. “At the time, it was a culmination of my whole time-
The love of the water inspires Noah Bauer’s music, as it is a constant thread in his life. (Photo by Jacob Darner)
line as a musician.”
Despite being a musician for over a decade, Bauer had yet to record an album. As more original tracks were added to his repertoire, he wanted to wait until he had the proper equipment to officially record an album.
After a fellow musician suggested he contact Ryan Staples, a Marquette native and audio engineer who established his in-home studio, Dead River Sounds, in 2021, the two collaborated on “Lunitidal Interval” for nearly three months.
While the two shared some good laughs during the collaborative process, Staples said the recording process was demonstrative of Bauer’s dedication to his craft.
“He is such a down-to-earth and friendly person, and I appreciate his creative process,” Staples said. “It is so intense and beautiful, and it is really in touch with himself. Through his music, he portrays an image that people are drawn to. You really want to sit, listen and be part of his expression.”
While “Lunitidal Interval” captures Bauer’s evolution as an artist and personal philosophies, it is also a call to action for listeners. Most notably
found in “Final Notice to the Ruling Class,” this track is Bauer directly addressing the group of wealthy elites he believes to be driving the planet to destruction through eternal wars, genocides, and mass exploitation. According to Bauer, this way of living is unsustainable for all involved.
“Lunitidal interval is a term for the culmination… It is the interval of waiting for change. Waiting for high tide when humanity sees it is all one and starts acting accordingly,” Bauer said.
“It is our sign not to give up and keep fighting the good fight. I hope it gives people a little bit of clarity on our situation and what we can do about it.”
“Lunitidal Interval” can be streamed on Apple Music and Spotify. For those interested in seeing Bauer perform live, his upcoming performances are posted monthly on his Facebook page. MM
Andie Balenger is a native of Gladstone attending graduate school at Northern Michigan University for Administration of Outdoor Recreation and Nature-Based Tourism.
Noah Bauer’s first album, ‘Lunitidal Interval,’ was a culmination of years of work, and includes his first song. His friend Brad Blair came up with the idea for the cover, which focuses on the title’s concept. The octopus tentacles reaching out to the moon represent Bauer’s desire for the change that comes with high tide. (Album art by Bradley Blair)
Delta County empowerment lookout point
Mom Prom fun set to benefit youth services program
“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.”
— Coretta Scott King
By Erin Elliott Bryan
Women from Delta County and beyond are cordially invited to a glamorous night out full of fun, dancing and philanthropy. Hosted by Haley Station Wedding and Event Venue, Mom Prom for a Cause will support the work of Youth Empowering Services (Y.E.S.), a local non-profit in-school youth mentoring program that focuses on the social and emotional health of K-12 students.
Mom Prom — billed as a night of elegance and empowerment — will take place from 7 p.m. to midnight on Nov. 16 at Haley Station in Escanaba and is open to all women ages 21 and older, not just moms.
“We’re going for a fancy, fun vibe,” said Debra Haley, owner of Haley Station. “We’re going completely glam.”
While attendees are encouraged to dress their best, Haley added that they should wear “whatever you feel pretty in.”
Haley has worked hard to create a chic and sophisticated environment for Mom Prom that will include music from Morningstar Entertainment, a photo booth, prize drawings, decorations and mood lighting, signature cocktails and wine specials, and a variety of gourmet appetizers.
“The food display is really important to me,” Haley said. “I like food to look pretty.”
Only 175 tickets are available. The cost of an individual ticket is $65 and 60 percent of ticket sales will be donated to Y.E.S.
Y.E.S. relies on community partnerships and collaboration, such as this one with Haley Station, to help provide services and resources to more than 350 youth throughout Delta and Menominee counties. Created in 2022 and led by Executive Director Tiffany Hewitt, the organization is only in its third year of supporting and mentoring youth at 10 area schools as
well as the Escanaba Student Success Center and Bay Pines Center, a juvenile detention and treatment facility.
The program uses volunteer mentors who work with children experiencing mild distress or functional impairment. The program focuses on connection and relationships, and also addresses advocacy and mental health.
Y.E.S. was formed following the dissolution of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area, according to a November 2023 article in the Daily Press. Seeing a continued need for youth support, Hewitt and others partnered with the Community Foundation for Delta County to develop the locally focused program from the ground up.
Y.E.S. mentors meet with students on a consistent weekly basis throughout the school year to provide solution-based programming. The organization focuses on “keeping the mentality that there is always room for improvement, growth, evaluation, relationship building and working with community leadership” and “keeping an open mind to solve problems in creative ways,” according to its website.
And after just two full years, the program has already recognized “the holistic success of Y.E.S.”
“The individual student success of the Y.E.S. program trails into the classroom, households, community and beyond,” the website notes.
Most students who receive mentorship are chosen by the schools, but others are recommended by parents themselves.
“It can be anyone,” Hewitt told Escanaba’s Daily Press. “Maybe a child just experienced a loss in the family, maybe they’re the eldest sibling of five and they just need some attention; maybe they’re just going through a behavioral change.”
Most of the Y.E.S. programs take place in schools — safe, neutral ground for students and mentors — and sessions are highly flexible. Mentors focus on connecting with the student and not necessarily organizing a planned activity.
“The Y.E.S. program positively impacts everyone involved,” mentor Elle Dykowski told Escanaba’s Daily Press. “Mentoring is a great way for students and mentors to feel included, heard and valued.”
Mentorship is defined simply as a supportive and caring relationship between an adult and a young person, which can be established formally through a program such as Y.E.S. or occurring naturally such as with a neighbor or coach.
Research has shown that young people need stable, caring relationships with adults in order to thrive and those relationships play a powerful role in youth development and success.
A 2023 national study led by MENTOR, an organization dedicated to fueling the “quality and quantity of mentoring relationships for America’s young people,” found that mentoring relationships promoted a strong sense of belonging in youth, an internal asset that is essential for healthy development.
“We are looking for anyone that can be a positive adult in a child’s life,” Hewitt told WZMQ TV19 in August 2023. “We aren’t looking for perfect adults; we want anyone that can relate to children. Any walk of life. Anyone that’s willing to give 30 minutes to an hour each week.”
In addition to its mentorship programs, the organization’s EmpowerMe project offers a “comprehensive approach to helping high school students prepare for their bright futures,” according to the Y.E.S. website. The project offers practical tools for resume building, job planning and college applications, nutrition education and practice, and financial training. The program also offers scholarships for driver’s training and free professional senior photos to qualified students.
“With this program, students can join their community feeling well equipped and confident,” the website notes.
Y.E.S. continues to grow and is working to reach more students in
Debra Haley, owner of Haley Station, has a night of elegance and fun planned for Mom Prom attendees. (Photo by Aspen Leigh Photography)
new ways. In June, the Delta County Suicide Prevention Task Force donated $10,000 to Y.E.S. to discuss ways to incorporate mental health and suicide topics into its programming.
The program welcomes community support in all ways, including as volunteers, donors, sponsors, mentors, followers or partners. It was that opportunity to support Y.E.S. that inspired Haley to create Mom Prom.
“I was excited to create an event to help the community come together,” Haley said. “Getting to create something while also raising money is pretty cool.”
Haley is a native of Delta County. Growing up, her father, Tony Hurkmans, owned the building that is now Haley Station and operated the Station Bar & Grill.
The family later relocated to Arizona where Haley eventually met and married her husband Chris.
The Haleys moved back to Escanaba three years ago and purchased the building at 1837 Third Avenue North in January 2023. The venue hosted its first event in April.
Although Haley, describing herself as a “one-man show,” preferred to focus on getting her new business off the ground in its first year, she couldn’t resist the chance to get involved with Y.E.S.
“It’s always been on my heart to
have an opportunity to contribute to nonprofits that benefit kids,” she said. “I was super impressed with Youth Empowering Services.”
Haley Station hosted Y.E.S.’s mentor orientation in September.
Haley acknowledged that planning parties is “how I express my love” and is passionate about using her skills to support local organizations that align with her values.
She reflected on her own childhood in Delta County and the friends she knew who struggled in one way or another.
“I grew up in this community and things were much different then. There were not a lot of resources,” she said. “The problem is that we are not helping our kids while they’re going through hard things that are not their fault.”
“We are now stepping up,” she added. “The more money we can raise, the better.”
For information on Y.E.S., call 906-786-6654 or visit yes906.org. For information on the Mom Prom and to purchase tickets, call 906-261-9159, email haleystationevents@gmail.com or visit haleystationevents.com.
Erin Elliott Bryan grew up in Ishpeming. She is a freelance writer and an MM calendar editor.
Haley Station, a new event venue, was formerly the Station Bar & Grill, located on 3rd Avenue North in Escanaba. (Photo by Debra Haley)
Creating the magic the arts
Delta County author spells enchantment for middle-grade readers
By Brad Gischia
The path toward your dream is often not clear. For U.P. native Nikki Mitchell, the idea of being a writer was always there, hovering on the edge of what she was doing.
“I wanted to be an author when I was in high school,” said Mitchell, who grew up in Iron River and went to West Iron County Schools. She remembers talking to her best friend during study hall, sharing their dreams about writing for publication. At the time, she was encouraged to keep those dreams as dreams.
“I was told that I should go into something that would actually pay,” Mitchell said. So she put her writing dream aside and continued her education, which led her to Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where she started pursuing a criminal justice degree. “I realized that math was a big part of my degree and I really didn’t like math that much.”
Mitchell started spending time with theater students, and switched her path to tech theater. After that, she transferred to NMU to pursue an English degree. “Still thinking about getting a job that paid, I thought I’d minor in journalism because I missed writing,” Mitchell said. With that decision, she further pushed creative writing to the back burner.
It was a chance subscription to the MasterClass program, an online learning platform that allows users to take virtual classes from people at the top of their field, that gave Mitchell the push she needed.
“I took a MasterClass by R.L. Stine about writing for middle grade level and chapter books,” Mitchell said. “I owned every copy of the ‘Goosebumps’ books growing up, and it lit that fire for me again.”
So Mitchell sat down at her keyboard and began.
It was as hard, and as simple, as that.
Since the fall of 2019, Mitchell has published 11 books, from children’s books to young adult, multi-volume series; her most recent, “Flip Flop Frank,” was written by her husband Mike and illustrated by Mitchell.
Her first book, “Nightshade Forest,” was also the first of what became a three-book series called “Eleanor Mason’s Literary Adventures.”
“Eleanor’s story popped into my head, and I couldn’t get her to stop,” Mitchell said. She sat down and started writing, often the hardest part of any project. “The Eleanor series is a middle-grade portal fantasy,” Mitchell explained. A portal fantasy is a story in which characters are typically normal people who travel through a doorway into a fantas-
tical world — think “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis.
Those books were what brought Mitchell to the Crystal Falls Library. Evelyn Gathu has been the library director there since 2019.
“Nikki has been to the library for our Authorpalooza events,” Gathu said. Authorpalooza is an event at which local authors set up tables at the library with their books for sale. “We also read two of her books for our Tween book club and had her come in and speak with the kids afterwards.”
Those events were memorable for both Mitchell and the students.
“I wrote one of the characters with ADHD,” Mitchell said. “I wanted the character to be relatable to kids both with and without it. One kid noticed the characteristics and said he saw himself in it.” That same kid said he read the book five times in a month — high praise for any author.
“It really made me want to keep writing,” Mitch-
ell said.
Mitchell said her path to actually writing a book started with social media.
“I was on Instagram, building up an author support group,” Mitchell said. “We were all unpublished with manuscripts in progress. There were writing challenges going on, one of them was 10K in 10 Days.” That particular challenge — of writing 10,000 words in ten days — became the first half of “Nightshade Forest.”
“After that was over, I thought ‘That’s not too bad,’” Mitchell said. Another challenge was brought to her attention — 10K in One Day.
“I thought that would keep me motivated,” Mitchell said. It was a one-day marathon writing session that allowed her to finish her first book. That victory was paired with real, physical pain. Mitchell suffers from psoriatic arthritis, which can cause joint swelling, similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
“That was way too much,” Mitchell said. It sent
Local author Nikki Mitchell used writing challenges to finish her first book, and hasn’t looked back. Her books appeal to students, who identify with her characters. (Photo courtesy of Nikki Mitchell)
her into a flare-up, and with toddlers at home, Mitchell decided that such challenges were not worth it.
But she had finished her first book and had convinced herself that she could do it. It also changed the way she would work in the future.
“Now I do really detailed character bios, sort of an emotional thesaurus for each character,” Mitchell said. Each character gets a bio, one that goes into minute details, anything that might come up in the course of the story. “I go through everything, even down to their favorite foods, things like that,” Mitchell said. “Then I sit down and write the rough draft, knowing everything about the people in the book.”
So it should be easy then, right? Take those character bios, put them into the story, everything works out just like it should. But writers of creative fiction know that no matter how tightly you bind characters to a story, they don’t always behave.
“The Eleanor series was supposed to be four books,” Mitchell said. “As I was writing the third one, I found that Eleanor was dragging her feet all of the time, that I was forcing the story around a character that didn’t want it. I thought … I’m the author, I should be able to make my character do what I want her to.”
In the end, Mitchell did the only thing that made sense. She scrapped the book and wrote the fourth book as the third in the series.
“And then it was done, just like that,” Mitchell said. “It was like she (Eleanor) told me ‘No, this isn’t going to happen.’” Mitchell knew that if the story was forced, readers would be able to feel that as they read.
So the first series was done, and Mitchell went through the somewhat agonizing process of self-publishing, fraught with technical problems that have a high learning curve and popular rumors that just aren’t true.
“ISBN numbers were a big thing
for me,” Mitchell said. “When I first published, I had heard that you didn’t need an ISBN, and then I’d heard that bookstores and libraries won’t take self-published work.”
Mitchell slogged through work with a company that proved to be less than helpful when she received damaged books, and finally settled on self-publishing through Amazon.
“It really works out well for me,” Mitchell said.
Fortunately for Mitchell, she lives in an area that has a group that can help. The Upper Peninsula Publishers and Authors Association (UPPAA) has long been a local resource for writers in the U.P. Mitchell has been a member since 2021.
“It’s been a great help, especially having a group of writers and professionals in the industry at different points in the publishing journey,” she said.
Mitchell said the contacts she’s made through UPPAA have been invaluable. One of those contacts was
the voice of her audiobook, Brandy Thomas. Thomas has been recording audiobooks for four years and also has an editing business.
“I talked with Brandy about audiobooks, and then I hired her to do the audio for ‘Season of Dragons,’” Mitchell said. “She knew so much about the process that it was seamless on my end.”
Thomas said working with Mitchell was easy because she has a very distinctive voice for her characters. “I usually read through the book first and make notes while trying to get a feel for the text and the characters,” Thomas said. “There’s a lot to figure out with each one, if they have a distinctive talking pattern, pitch of voice, that sort of thing.” Thomas said that Mitchell’s characters have a very strong sense of self.
The audio version of the first in the Magic Shoebox series called “Season of Dragons” was recently chosen as a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, a U.K.-based award. Created
by author Billy Bob Buttons, Wishing Shelf was created specifically for independent authors and small publishers with the winners chosen by readers.
“It means a lot because it’s chosen by age-appropriate readers,” she said.
Mitchell knows how to write for kids. She writes for her own, and they are the first to read the story as it comes out.
“I write the rough draft, do a quick edit, and then read it to them,” Mitchell said. “Watching them react to the stories that were in my head is my favorite part of the process. A close second is seeing it on library shelves.”
Mitchell is no stranger to working with family. One of her latest books is a children’s book written by her husband, Mike, and illustrated by her.
“He was pretty easy to work with,” Mitchell said. “His family has a strong tradition of oral storytelling. He told “Flip Flop Frank” to our kids, and then to others in the family, and the next thing you know we were writing it down and finishing the book.”
With eleven books under her belt, Mitchell doesn’t seem to be slowing down. She created her own LLC, Poison Apple Press, and will be publishing a new book next spring. That’s good news for Gathu and the Crystal Falls Library, who says it’s important for people — kids especially — to see local authors represented.
“I think (local) kids need to see that it’s something they can do, not just people in New York or Los Angeles,” Gathu said. “It’s also important for kids to see people in their communities who give back. Nikki does that.”
For details on Mitchell’s books, visit poison-apple-press.com.
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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.
Nikki Mitchell self-published all of her books, which are geared toward young readers. (Photo by Brad Gischia)
Houghton
Betty Chavis celebrated locals
By Jennifer Donovan
ICity Council honors minorities champion with special day
t was snowing in Houghton when Betty Chavis arrived from her home in Detroit in 1989. Typical, brutal Keweenaw snow. As she was negotiating the slippery steps of the little plane, she looked around and muttered, “Oh, hell no!”
She’s been in the Keweenaw ever since. Recently celebrating her 90th birthday, she has no plans to leave.
A Black face in a white place
Lured to Michigan Tech to help increase diversity by recruiting more Black students to the almost completely white campus, she was an anomaly on campus and in town. She startled some students, faculty and townfolk, but her upbeat, friendly manner — and her ability to convince more students of color to come to Michigan Tech — soon won them over.
“There were some at Tech who kind of looked at me sideways,” she recalled. “But when I started bringing people into their departments, we became pretty good friends.”
Around town, it was more challenging. “Mostly it was the people on the street who couldn’t quite get used to seeing me,” she said. And some were outright insulting. She remembers standing in front of her Volkswagen bug that she’d just parked downtown, when some kids in a passing car yelled a racial slur at her.
She also recalled her experience sampling restaurants throughout the Keweenaw. “When I’d walk into a restaurant, things would suddenly get very quiet, and everybody would turn around and look at me,” Chavis said. “Many of the folk here had never, ever been in the company of a person of color. They weren’t mean, just curious.” One woman even said to her, “I’ve never been around the coloreds. You know, you’re really rather nice.”
Increasing diversity at Tech At Michigan Tech, her work was recruiting Black students to the university. “There were about 20 Black students on campus (in 1989),” she said. By the time she retired in 2014, there were upwards of 100,
most of them there because of Chavis. Darnisha Morris was one of them. A Detroiter, born and bred, she’d never even thought about Michigan Tech until Chavis came to her high school on a recruiting visit. She was wearing one of her signature, colorful outfits and caps, and she seemed so enthusiastic and friendly, Morris recalled. So she came up to Houghton for a campus visit. “I was sold,” Morris said. “It was the right size, the right environment.” And Chavis was there. “She was my mainstay, my go-to,” Morris said. “She was my disciplinarian, my cheerleader, my advocate, my friend.”
Morris earned her bachelor’s in business and an industrial management certificate at Tech. She also earned a master’s and a PhD in Applied Cognitive Science and Human Factors. Now she’s assistant dean of the Pavlis Honors College there. She’s also a minister at Glad Tidings Church in Hancock.
Morris and Chavis developed a very close bond. “Dar is my goddaughter,” said Chavis, who calls Darnisha “Dar,” as does almost everyone else who knows her. Morris calls her “Mama Betty” and still checks in on her every day.
Admired in her profession, Morris has received offers from other universities that hope to lure her away. She’s tried leaving a couple of times, but she always comes back. “I’m crystal clear that the primary reason I came back was for Betty,” she said. “She’s such a giver and an innovative, out-of-thebox thinker. She lives life big-time. She’s always there for people. I want to pay forward all she’s given to me.”
Promising the parents
In her recruiting efforts, Chavis found the minority students’ parents were the hardest sell. “Kids were always ready to get as far away from their parents as possible,” she said. But the parents were worried about their children going so far away to such an isolated little town where there would be so few people who looked like them.
How did Chavis convince those reluctant parents? “I told them I’d be with their child every step of the way.” And she was. She met them when they
Betty Chavis has been honored with the Keweenaw Peninsula Spark Plug Award, Blue Key’s Clair M. Donovan Award and the Michigan Tech Employee Excellence Award. (Photo courtesy of Michigan Tech archives) She recently celebrated her 90th birthday. (Photo courtesy of Betty Chavis)
arrived, showed them around campus, introduced them to other students, watched over them to make sure they were adjusting and settling in. She was always there to talk over a problem or step in to resolve a crisis.
“When I came to Michigan Tech, I thought I’d stay five years,” Chavis said. “But then it became another five, and another five and another five. I had promised those parents I’d be there.”
One of her proudest accomplishments is the Parade of Nations. An iconic annual event in Houghton now, the Parade of Nations highlights students, faculty and community residents from more than 60 countries, marching with their country’s flags and garbed in their traditional native dress.
Chavis has many admirers in the community. Mary Ann Geda, owner of Mary Ann Geda’s Massage Therapy, said, “She is a woman of strength, love, compassion and integrity who walks her talk and tries to leave the world a better place.”
The Houghton City Council even declared last Sept. 28 as Betty Chavis Day in Houghton.
In honor of her birthday and all she has given to the community and generations of students, Morris threw a 90th birthday bash for Chavis at
Michigan Tech in late September. A large crowd of grateful students and friends came to show their love. They showered her with gifts and played what Chavis calls her theme song: Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing.”
She sure is.
MM
Jennifer Donovan is a freelance writer based in Houghton. She has decades of experience as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer and university communications specialist, most recently as director of news and information at Michigan Tech.
Betty Chavis, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, runs an antique store in the Copper Country Mall. (Photos courtesy of Betty Chavis)
back then
1904: A year like no other
By Larry Chabot
The year 1904 was full of momentous events in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, some of which are still in evidence today. Here are some headline grabbers:
Most unlikely firefighters Marquette Branch Prison, January 11, 1904. The noon hour buzz of inmates eating lunch. At a piercing alarm, they push back their chairs and rush out, while those in the cell blocks race through open cell doors, filling halls and staircases. A massive breakout? Convicts taking control?
No, it’s FIRE somewhere in the prison! With no time to wait for Marquette fire crews, convicts became amateur firemen. Another snag: city water mains didn’t reach the prison, which siphoned its water from the nearby Carp River. The puny river feed “is as effective as a squirt gun,” lamented a prison official.
The fire consumed the cigar shop, then headed for the engine room and powerhouse, whose roofs were soon ablaze. Convicts scaled ladders to the burning roofs to rip up boards with bare hands while others manned a bucket brigade of water, snow and chemicals, all this in a howling winter gale. Inmates had saved their home.
Despite a morning inspection, fire had erupted in the cigar factory where the Franklin Cigar Company was operating amid piles of flammable tobacco. Prison officials had complained long and futilely about the dinky water supply, but were ignored. There were also gripes from the cigar makers union having to compete with convict labor (Marquette had more than 40 cigar makers then). After buildings were replaced, production resumed as before, and the prison finally put in its own water well.
As for the convicts, Deputy Warden T.B. Catlin said “They did one hell of a job for us, and no one asked them to.” Warden James Russell added, “We are very proud of our boys today. They worked without regard for their personal safety, and some will carry scars from it for the rest of their lives.”
Target Escanaba
In the early 20th century, Escanaba and Delta County wrestled with a
health epidemic that devastated and terrified the population.
It was typhoid fever, caused by salmonella bacteria in food and water.
History records an outbreak as early as 430 BC that killed one third of the population of Athens, Greece. In the U.S., both presidents William Henry Harrison and Zach Taylor were possible victims, as were settlers in the Jamestown colony in Virginia. The 1900 Census reported typhoid as the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.
The source of Escanaba’s water pollution was a mystery until a committee led by Dr. William LeMire figured it out. City water, drawn from Little Bay de Noc, was dangerously toxic far out from shore. More than 60 people had died by March 1, 1904. Residents, especially children, were told to drink only spring or artesian water, but quality worsened in 1905 until it was discovered that the water intake pipe from the bay was located between two sewage outlet pipes. The water company moved the outlet pipes well away from the intake pipe, which ended the problem.
Typhoid still occurs in the world.
The U.S. Center for Disease Control counts several hundred American cases a year, mostly in people returning from abroad.
Hold onto your hat
Theend of 1904 brought a blizzard raging into the western U.P. at 60 miles an hour. Ironwood’s snow drifts reached second story windows, forcing folks to dig tunnels to their front doors. No one expected the sidewalks to surface until spring.
The Marquette Mining Journal, Ishpeming Iron Ore, Negaunee Iron Herald and Karl Bohnak’s book So Cold a Sky reported tales of snow mountains and personal peril. In Negaunee, all trains and streetcars were trapped until plowed out by draft horses, then filled up again with fresh snow. A crew of 75 men were clearing streets, merchants snowshoed to work and a pastor skied to church for a wedding. Several firemen slept at the firehouse during the storm, which had broken the streetcar line in 14 places.
An Ishpeming newsman was riding a train home when it got stuck near Humboldt, then the heater failed, forcing passengers into the smoking
Illustration by Brad Gischia
car for hours. Some riders trudged through drifts to find food. Another train was trapped for 30 hours north of Sidnaw; with the OK of the cargo’s owner, hungry passengers broke into a freight car to raid and cook a shipment of meat on a small stove. They spent 20 more hours in a small depot, surviving on vittles from a lumber camp. According to witnesses, some riders got falling-down drunk during the wait.
The tales continued: a Negaunee telegrapher, whose office was completely buried in snow, wired a railroad plow to free him. Three Ishpeming girls going home from a dance huddled in a factory doorway; a passing man carried them to safety one by one. In Delta County, all traffic ground to a halt as drifts as high as 20 feet buried all roads.
In Menominee, 10-foot drifts were turned rock-hard by freezing rain, stalling trains and streetcars, which isolated the town. Elsewhere, Duluth battled 30-foot drifts, and four people were found frozen to death in a Minneapolis snowbank.
Winter finally loosened its grip, the snow melted and ran into rivers, lakes
and some basements. It would happen again, as it has for centuries. Legend says the first snowplow was made of elk antlers in Russia, 6,000 years ago.
Tell it to the judge
The old Marquette courthouse was in bad shape, so a handsome replacement sprouted on Baraga Avenue, whose grand opening on September 17 drew huge crowds. Many businesses and the post office closed during the event, which was to open mid-morning with the arrival of a special St. Paul train (it was late, so bands entertained the crowd until it arrived).
Judge J.W. Stone, mounting a special platform over the front steps, delivered what he promised to be the longest speech — only a half-hour — to not weary the crowd. Peter White then came forward to recite his favorite poem, “Wreck of the Julie La Plant,” whose opening lines were:
On wan dark night on Lac St. Pierre,
De win’ she blow, blow, blow…
After the crowd inspected every room in the new structure, they board-
ed waiting streetcars for Presque Isle, where Joe Prince served lunch for everyone as they enjoyed band concerts, dancing and more speeches. The gala ended in time for folks to return home on the afternoon trains.
The marvelous building still stands. Among its memorable events were President Theodore Roosevelt’s suit against a local newspaper publisher and filming of Anatomy of a Murder motion picture scenes.
Wow — open stacks!
Peter White was an early dreamer of a better library for Marquette; the old wooden one, opened in 1872 with items from his family, moved from place to place as holdings grew. After the Longyear family donated a plot at the corner of Front and Ridge, a new building arose in 1904. It was dedicated on September 22 with little fanfare, but invited the courthouse dedication crowd for a walk-through.
At the official opening, thousands oohed and aahed, checked out books, and happily wandered through the stacks; librarians no longer had to
Illustration by Brad Gischia
fetch the books. Holdings included more than 18,000 books and pamphlets, and 4,000 people signed up for library cards. News reports boasted that the new library and courthouse were “homelike and comfortable, the finest public buildings north of the [Mackinac] straits.”
With but one entrance, librarians could watch everyone entering or leaving. A basement lounge offered gentlemen a place to “enjoy a quiet smoke” while reading a book or magazine. Legend has it that Peter White and friends met there to discuss city affairs, with the beverage of choice being Peter White Punch.
When the library was expanded and modernized in 2000, staff and contents temporarily moved to Magers Hall on the Northern Michigan University campus.
Meanwhile…
The Ishpeming Ski Club, via a message scratched on birchbark, invited President Theodore Roosevelt to a tournament; member J.C. Greenway was a friend of his, but Roosevelt didn’t come. Ishpeming sledder Rowland Argall slid under a moving streetcar, but was saved when the operator heard his scream; passenger Dr. N.J. Robins treated the boy. The next day, Dan Toohy of Laurium was run over and killed by a streetcar.
Grand Marais was experiencing a chicken-snatching crime spree; Henry Sturgeon lost 30 in one night. Eight big ships were moored in the Marquette harbor. While courthouse ceremonies were underway, the Marquette high school football team was playing an alumni squad at the fairgrounds. Sewers in north Marquette overflowed because a manhole was deliberately stuffed with junk by pranksters.
And so it went — an unforgettable year in the books.
Writer’s Note: The author toured the prison farm with his uncle Jack who was a guard there, avoided typhoid, spent hundreds of hours in the Peter White Public Library and ten minutes in the Marquette courtroom, lived through many blinding blizzards and one hurricane, and never stole a chicken.
Larry Chabot, an Ontonagon native, worked his way through Georgetown University and was then employed at White Pine Copper Company for 32 years, before moving to Marquette with his wife, Betty. He is a freelance writer who has written for several publications, including more than 200 articles for Marquette Monthly.
in the outdoors
Horns vs. Antlers: Meeting head-on
“Male reindeers lose their antlers in winter and females don’t, so Santa’s sleigh is actually pulled by a team of women... Of course it is.”
—PR Buzz Bus
By Scot Stewart
Masculinity is a strange thing, often defined in nature by the wearer’s head gear. For species with horns or antlers, nearly all males have them. Sometimes the females do, too, but they are almost always smaller.
At first glance, horns or antlers help distinguish not only males from females, but also the age, fitness, strength and experience of the owner. The structures protruding from the head of an animal convey all sorts of information important not only to others of the same species, but also to their hunters and admirers.
Beetles have some of the earliest head gear and most impressive horns. Early beetles date back to the Lower
Cretaceous Period in geological history, more than 100 million years ago.
Rhinoceros beetles have the most impressive horns and are rather late entries, with a history dating back only 30 to 40 million years ago. With their impressive horn strength, a beetle can lift an opponent entirely off its feet and flip it over to win a battle.
Despite their relative size compared to horned animals, beetles played a major role in human culture. Egyptians revered scarab beetles as symbols of the Ancient Egyptian sun god Ra, representing resurrection, good luck and other aspects of life.
Today rhinoceros beetles are kept as pets in Asia and are used occasionally in gambling games with spectators betting on male beetles fighting with their horns. A female beetle (or sounds made to imitate one) provide stimulus for the fight. The winner is the one who flips over its opponent.
Many dinosaurs also developed impressive headgear. Probably the most famous was the vegetarian triceratops,
with its three large horns. Their horns were made of bony material covered with a keratin-like material similar to the protein in fingernails and hair. They may have used their horns to defend themselves against larger meat eaters, but more likely males used them to fight each other over mating rights or to impress females.
“Why do animals have horns? Because they just don’t have bells that work.”
—Unknown
Mammalian
head gear comes in a variety of types — horns, antlers, a combination type and a less commonly discussed kind, ossicones. Horns are found on bovines (cow family members), sheep, goats and antelopes. They are permanently attached to their heads and usually found on both sexes. Horns are made of matted keratin and have a single pointed tip on each side and are used primarily for protection.
During gestation, cow horn buds begin developing in the skin above the skull. At about one year, a cow’s bud tissue attaches to the bone of the skull, and the horn body starts to grow, continuing throughout the cow’s life.
Bighorn sheep have some of the most interestingly shaped horns in North America, spiraling out in a curl. Their horns have more prominent rings, with one marking each year of the ram’s life. Like large antlers, some hunters seek the older rams with full curls. Rocky Mountain goats have slender, sharply terminated horns with a slight curve. Not true goats, they are most closely related to antelopes, gazelles and cows.
Rhinoceroses have horns, too, but of a completely different type. There are five different types of rhinos — black, white, greater one-horned or Indian, Sumatran and Javan. All have two horns except for the Indian. Rhino horns have no bone, are made of keratin and of course are located on their noses. Both sexes have horns, and
This Bighorn sheep ram carries his curly horns around Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
they do continue to grow throughout the animal’s life. Male rhinos use their horns for protection and to attract females. Males also use their horns to defend their territories against other males; females use them to help guide their young, and both use the horns to secure food and dig for water during the dry season.
Rhino horns also have long-term connections with human culture. They have been ground up and used in Asian cultural medicinal practices treating nosebleeds, fevers, rheumatism and other disorders. It has been compared to “making a soup out of fingernails,” because the material is basically keratin. In Yemen, rhino horns were used in a now-banned practice of making sheaths for jambiyas, a type of knife, and dagger handles.
Pronghorns, found in the United States and Canada, have modified bony horn bases covered in keratin sheaths that grow larger each year and are shed annually. Pronghorns are unique animals with no other close mammalian relatives. Their horns are also different as they are forked and point backward. Both sexes have horns, but females are much smaller. These midnight black horns stand in stark contrast to their fawn-colored heads and backs. The keratin sheaths on pronghorns grow larger each year and are shed each fall in November or December. They are truly a one-of-akind design.
Ossicones are bony structures covered with hair on the heads of African giraffes and okapi. Both sexes of the two species have these structures to
some degree, but female giraffes have small knobs with tufts atop them and the female okapi just have hair tufts on the tops of their heads.
“Deer are like snowflakes: Beautiful, unique and sometimes a surprise on the highway.”
—Unknown
Antlers are a part of the anatomy of the deer family — moose, elk,
caribou and deer. Only female caribou have antlers. Antlers are attached to bony protuberances on the skull and usually begin growing in early spring. For members of the deer family, males in their first summer begin to develop small bumps on the top of their skulls. Some even get little “spikes” emerging from the skin and fur on the crowns of their heads.
The regular set of antlers, though, start in very early spring and are some
of the fastest growing tissues in animals. For elk, antlers can grow as much as an inch a day. The base of early antlers is made of cartilage and is covered in a blood-rich skin and fur referred to as velvet.
On Isle Royale, there are five small depressions on the west end of the island that moose visit in spring to gain extra nutrients from the muddy, sodium-rich water. They have even been known to dive more than ten
Barren-ground caribou carry distinctive antlers; only females of the species have them. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
feet for aquatic plants containing sodium during warm-weather months. While they seek the sodium needed for muscle and nerve tissue because of the large quantities of water they drink, they also may consume other minerals and plants with significant amounts of calcium and phosphorus, two elements essential for a healthy food supply for antler growth.
On the Slate Islands, located on the Ontario side of Lake Superior to the east of Isle Royale, woodland caribou found one of the last places of solace along the Canada-U.S. border. After logging and fire changed the forests that woodland caribou called home, they disappeared from even wilder places like Isle Royale, leaving just a handful of small pockets suitable for these gentle members of the deer family.
Smaller Canadian islands, uninhabited by people like the Slates, Pic, Leadmans and Michipicoten, offered wolf-free spots for caribou, as long as winter ice did not last long enough for wolves to make their way across and find them.
The ice eventually did last long enough, and the wolves found their way to most places where the remaining caribou lived, although efforts have been made to reestablish some herds.
Without predators, they thrived during summers, but were hardpressed to find the food they needed in winter, relying primarily on tree lichens like Old Man’s beard to make it
through winters of little food and deep snow. If they had a blustery winter, many trees blew down and there was usually enough food.
But if there was a quiet winter with few storms, there were losses of up to 75 percent of the population starving to death. The result was often survival of caribou with lesser needs in a highly inbred population as there was little or no contact with caribou from other areas.
The long-term effects were many bulls with much smaller antlers, or no antlers (they were called hummels), and just a small number of females with antlers.
The fact that there are only a few squirrels and mice on the islands meant shed antlers often remained untouched for years, providing a good record of their history.
By early August, antler growth draws to a close for most deer as the flow of blood slows and antlers begin calcifying and the velvet dries. Some deer in Michigan begin losing their velvet in late August, with up to 80 percent velvet-free by the middle of September. It can usually be rubbed off in about a day. Mid-September is about the time moose in Michigan begin losing their velvet.
As the length of day continues to shrink, the testosterone levels in bucks increase and behavior begins to change. Previously socializing in small groups, they begin spending more time alone, defining their breeding territory.
This white-tailed deer was seen on Presque Isle. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
“If deer had social media, they’d be the kings of selfies.”
Antlers serve a lot of useful purposes to deer. First, and perhaps most importantly, their visual presence provides information to both male and female deer about the age and condition of their owner. It will tell a doe if they are suitable mates and tell another buck about its status when deciding if they should be driven off, challenged or avoided during breeding season. Antlers can be used in defense, both against predators, but also against other deer.
Deer headgear can be used during the breeding season to mark their territory as they remove velvet and leave scent on tree trunks. The scarred bark is called a rub. The greater the trunk diameter, usually the larger the set of antlers.
By removing the other bark of a tree and damaging the cambium, they add the scent of the tree to their own scent coming from the forehead scent gland located above their eyes between the antlers.
Rubs are to deer what fire hydrants are to dogs. They are message boards between all the deer in the area. Does will travel through the area looking
for a mate. Other bucks may pass through the area looking for a place with little or no competition, or just a higher number of does.
Rubs and other signs like scrapes — places where bucks have cleared away leaves and other debris and left scent on the ground and branches laden with scent from glands near the bucks’ eyes — can signal area availability and reduce energy expenditures due to extra travel and confrontations during an intensively active part of the year.
Female members of the deer family most frequently seek out males with the largest antlers when breeding, but even then there are posers. Some bucks will add plant branches and leaves to their antlers in what appears to be an attempt to make them look larger.
At the end of breeding seasons, most members of the deer family begin shedding their antlers, with those with the largest usually shedding theirs first. On the Slate Islands, caribou may lose theirs as early as October.
Most deer in Michigan lose theirs in late December and early January. Older moose may lose their antlers as soon as November and free themselves of the extra burden of carrying
A bull moose shows off his palmate antlers, otherwise known as “handshaped.” Moose thrive in cooler, temperate areas. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
Japanese rhinoceros beetles, above, use their horns to fight for territory, flipping each other onto their backs. Below, an elk bull is shown as it starts to lose the velvet off its antlers. (Photos by Scot Stewart)
them. Some younger bulls may carry them all the way until early spring.
“Your growing antlers are proof of your intimate place in the forest — for of all the things that live and grow only the trees, and the deer shed their foliage each year and replace it more strongly, more significantly, in the spring.”
—Felix Salt
Mostantlers are shed after the fall breeding season, called the rut. After the breeding season ends, testosterone levels in males drop off and the connection binding antlers to the skull weakens.
Eventually, one of the antlers falls off. The imbalance of a single antler on the head can result in the male flipping its head back to correct the angle, especially if it is a bigger antler. The torque on the second antler often pulls it off too, often leaving the two shed antlers close to each other.
Shed antlers bring all kinds of attention. Because of the minerals they contain and their hardness, rodents find them irresistible. Mice, voles, squirrels and even porcupines sink their teeth in them as soon as they find them, leaving antlers fairly gnawed up by winter’s end.
Humans hunt shed antlers, too. Those following big bucks after deer season ends often wander through their winter ranges looking for them. Probably the biggest hunt for shed antlers occurs in the National Elk Refuge near Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
The state actually created a “season” for them in the refuge starting on May 1 for Wyoming residents that continues for a week before non-residents can begin. Since a single elk antler can weigh up to 20 pounds, the work can be arduous. Some look on horseback, others with straps and backpacks.
The antlers will become collectors’ items, be sold in fundraisers by organizations like the Scouts and turned into door decorators, gateway décor. Archways at the entrance to the town of Jackson Hole are adorned with them, and they are used in chandeliers and other furnishings.
Collecting shed antlers in national parks is prohibited as the nutrients are considered crucial to wildlife. In some parks, fines may be as much as $5,000 and/or up to six months in prison. Similar bans may occur in wildlife refuges.
Humans have long had an interest in the horns and antlers of animals. A large set of antlers draws a lot of attention as it represents the magnificence of the animal, just as beautiful feathers or fur color, overall body size and other animal traits do. A large set of antlers or horns tells the story of an animal able to navigate the trials of life, finding food, a safe place to live avoiding predators and the challenges of fires, floods and other natural threats.
To hunters, a large set of horns or antlers might come with a sense of cunning, power and even luck imparted on a hunter capable of bringing a strong animal down. A huge amount of pride may be conveyed sharing a set of antlers, a mount, an image or even a story of taking a trophy buck with an impressive set of antlers or a huge bull and its massive horns. Transfer those prominences to a human and it is sometimes felt that power and mys-
tique is passed to the wearer of those antlers or horns.
The Boone and Crockett Club is an organization with a mathematical formula to determine championship-sized antler sets. The system ranks antlers based on the width of the set, the number and length of each point (usually those over one inch), for deer and elk the length of the main and the length of each point. Ironically, the largest antlers on deer often represent the headgear of an animal in its prime.
While older bucks may have unusual sets, the large antlers typically are of bucks between four and 10 years, prime breeders able to pass good genes to the next generation.
“My wife can’t cook at all. She made chocolate mousse. An antler got stuck in my throat.”
—Rodney Dangerfield
Mountain goats have horns that contain yearly growth rings; the males have longer horns than the females. (Photo by Scot Stewart)
Antlers and horns are also valued in some cultures for use as folk remedies and medicines. In China, extracts from antler velvet have been used for more than 2,000 years.
Collecting antlers and horns is a challenge. For commercial products today, red deer bucks at one New Zealand ranch are tame and provide one source for preparations from antler velvet. A tourniquet is placed at the base of the antler when it is at about 60 percent of development. Then they are anesthetized, and the antlers are sawed off. The velvet is then made into tablets, capsules and liquid extracts.
In China, the velvet is sold in slices, made into soups and ground into powder; they claim to treat mammary hyperplasia, mastitis, uterine fibroids, malignant sores and children’s mumps with it. Little formal research has been conducted on the effects of these supplements, but while there may be some minimal health benefits for some, there is little evidence that benefits exist.
“We are part of the earth, and it is part of us. The perfumed flowers are our sisters: the deer, the horse, the great eagle: these are our brothers. All things are connected like the blood which unites one’s family.”
—Chief Seattle
As autumn slips into winter across deer country, deer, especially large ones, become a little easier to see, especially those close to settlements as the leaves fall. With the rut winding down, their social behavior slowly begins to return to normal as they slow down and stay in one place a little longer. This provides a better opportunity to observe them and appreciate their beauty and grace. People truly enjoy watching does and fawns but seem to derive an extra thrill from seeing a buck with a large set of antlers.
As deer have come to realize the lack of predators near towns, they have become more comfortable finding both food and freedom from almost everything except automobiles. It has brought deer even closer to people, and for some almost daily contact. The greater contact brings an increased chance to be exposed to health concerns like Lyme disease and to lose yard flowers and garden plants, but still brings the thrill of seeing wildlife in an incomparable way and a special appreciation for head gear, up close. MM
Scot Stewart is an educator, writer and photographer with an inherent love of the natural world. He is active with the MooseWood Nature Center at Presque Isle Park in Marquette.
Answers for the New York Times crossword puzzle, located on Page 14
superior reads
Brockway story retold with maps, illustrations
Review by Victor R. Volkman
“Brockway Mountain Stories” is a beautifully illustrated tribute to the 2013 decision of Clyde and Lloyd Wescoat to relinquish their family’s nearly 80year ownership of the 320 acres that comprised Brockway’s summit.
Through a consortium of public and private donors both large and small, this beautiful and essential piece of the Keweenaw skyline will remain forever accessible to the public under the care of Eagle Harbor Township. As you’ll learn in this book, Brockway Mountain Drive, the nine-mile-long road to the summit, literally opened the door to tourism in the Keweenaw Peninsula in the early 1930s. Prior to this, the peninsula was primarily just a series of copper mining towns with Calumet as its crown jewel.
The summit on Brockway Mountain sits 720 feet above Lake Superior and literally a few hundred yards from its shore. Owing to this extreme elevation, you can see Isle Royale some 50 miles northwest on a clear day, as well as Copper Harbor and Eagle Harbor, of course. Brockway Mountain was named for Daniel D. Brockway, one of the pioneer residents of the area.
The road can be accessed from either Eagle Harbor or Copper Harbor and serves as a scenic loop off M-26. The western end starts at M-26 near Lake Bailey and Agate Harbor. Brockway Mountain Drive ascends along the ridgeline of the Keweenaw Fault. It is the highest scenic roadway between the Alleghenies and the Rocky Mountain foothills.
Although I’ve only been to the summit of Brockway Mountain a couple of times in my 60 years, it is an unforgettable vista. My last visit was during my honeymoon in 1990 when we spent a few days enjoying some Copper Country cruising. However, until reading Paul LaVanway’s “Brockway Mountain Stories,” I knew nothing other than what was printed on the rustic MDOT road signage.
This 90-page book is actually a combined edition of two small booklets that have been out of print since at least 2008: “The Brockway Mountain Drive Story” and “The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Story.” Given that the two public works projects grew up concurrently, combining them makes a lot of sense.
Lloyd Wescoat’s Mudminnow Press has produced it as sort of a “mini
coffee table book”-type format in paperback. This keeps it affordable while allowing full scope of the many panoramic maps and photos to be easily read.
Chronologically, the creation of Brockway Mountain Drive starts a few years before Keweenaw Mountain Lodge and this is reflected in the book’s sequence. The photo captions provide enough detail that you can get sort of a “Cliff Notes” (pun intended) version of the history by just looking at the photos and reading the captions.
The effects of the Great Depression are largely lost to anyone born in the 21st century, so it is worth noting that “work relief” was seen as an essential component to bringing the country back on its feet following Black Monday, October 28, 1929, when the Dow Jones lost 13 percent of its value in a single day. Jobs, life savings and homes were lost to a generation of Americans. In the Copper Country, unemployment crested with above 65 percent of working men unemployed.
Showing true “sisu,” the Keweenaw County Road Commission (KCRC) proposed two projects in the summer of 1932: a lakeshore drive connecting Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor (now M-26), and Brockway Mountain Drive up to the summit and down the opposite side.
Thanks to availability of funds from Herbert Hoover’s Reconstruction Finance Corporation, the KCRC workforce ballooned from roughly 70 to 80 individuals to a peak of between 600 and 700 men. Shockingly, by today’s standards, all work was done by men and their shovels. Not a powered single steam shovel, road grader or digger was used. Furthermore, no surveying instruments were used, everything was done by eyeballing. This is just the beginning of the story, and if you want to know more, you’ll want to get your own copy of “Brockway Mountain Stories.”
The book’s second half focuses on the story of the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge. Although not a Sisyphean effort of building a nine-mile mountain road with a shovel, the lodge had its own unique engineering and economic puzzles to work out.
Starting literally a year after Brockway Mountain Drive was begun, a project called “The Keweenaw Park and Golf Course” began to take shape. In the end, the Keweenaw Copper Company donated 168 acres about
a mile southwest of Copper Harbor with beautiful views of Lake Superior. The long and checkered history of this property as it switches back and forth from public to private ownership over the decades is fascinating reading. For example, one investor group wanted to make it a year-round resort with winter sports featured. However, that group failed within months because it could not book enough rooms and therefore meals, etc.
My favorite part is the short, first-person interview pieces that are scattered throughout. Oral history provides more color and life than you can get from any number of newspaper articles, road commission board minutes and other prosaic written artifacts.
“Brockway Mountain Stories” is a fascinating, meticulously researched and graphically beautiful book that sheds new light on one of the most dramatic and remote areas of this rugged peninsula. This 2024 U.P. Notable Book Award-winner makes a great gift for anyone interested in the local history of the Keweenaw Peninsula and its pioneers.
Victor R. Volkman is a graduate of Michigan Tech (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.
Students produce history radio segment on campus
Two Northern Michigan University students have embarked on a project to research, write and record a new “U.P. History Moment” radio series. Each episode, roughly four minutes in length, is broadcast twice weekly on WNMU-FM Public Radio 90.
The students are using the resources of the Central U.P. and NMU Archives to select topics and develop content.
“The goal is to have each history moment circle back to one of our archival collections as much as possible,” said Erin O’Toole, a senior history major from Fenton, Mich. “My brainstorming sessions included a lot of scrolling through our database looking for potential topics and talking to my fellow student assistants and patrons. Another massive consideration is the narrative value of a collection. We chose to feature pieces
that had engaging stories in addition to historical value. We also had the help of the U.P. History class for generating scripts that cover more general themes, such as the U.P. and the Cold War.
“My favorite aspect of history as a field of study is the extraction of stories from hard facts. The U.P. History Moment was a unique opportunity to exercise the creative aspect of storytelling along with the traditional analysis. Learning about U.P. history as its own topic, rather than a subsection of a larger history, has been refreshing. I found that I learned so much more about the people and culture of the Upper Peninsula than ever before.”
The theme hits even closer to home for Marquette native and junior history major Elijah Croschere. He said most of the radio scripts are based on interesting collections discovered in the archives, or fascinating stories
from the students’ own research.
“The most fulfilling part of this project for me is getting to share this history with others,” he said. “As a self-styled storyteller, history is something I hold in very high regard. Oftentimes, the most intriguing stories you’ll find are things that really happened not so long ago. Getting to put bundles of that fascinating history together and present them to the public is very fulfilling work.”
Marcus Robyns, NMU’s university archivist, explained how the idea for the student-produced segments first surfaced. He said it was partly to fill a
programming void created by the loss of a similar segment.
“For a few years, the Historical Society of Michigan used to produce a regular four-minute or so radio spot they called the ‘Michigan History Moment,’” Robyns said. “I found out last summer they stopped because it was too much work. But the radio station still has a collection and kept replaying them. My wife suggested we replace the reruns with a ‘U.P. History Moment’ instead. I thought it was a great idea, so we created a student-driven production that’s focused more specifically on the region the radio station covers.”
Hans Ahlstrom of Public Radio 90 is guiding the student assistants in recording their respective segments in the studio. The “U.P. History Moment” airs at 8:30 a.m. Wednesdays and replays at 5:35 p.m. Sundays. MM
MTU’s Rozsa Center announces new executive director
The Rozsa Center announced the selection of Kiersten Birondo as its new executive director, effective Nov. 1.
Birondo, who has served as the Rozsa’s Marketing Manager for the past three seasons, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the arts to this leadership role.
As a fifth generation Yooper, Houghton High School and Michigan Tech alum, and an active member in the theatre and music community throughout her career, Birondo has a strong connection to the Rozsa Center and has witnessed firsthand the positive impact the Rozsa has on the region.
“Since it opened in 2000, I have loved the Rozsa from every angle,” Birondo said. “As a performer, audience member, auntie introducing my niece to the performing arts, and staff member, the Rozsa has been the foundation of my artistic life and the catalyst of my professional one.”
In her role as executive director, Birondo will oversee all aspects of the Rozsa Center’s operations and will work closely with the university to implement strategic plans for the future including continued work with its mission of sustainability and accessibility.
“I know the impact this organization can have on one person and our
entire community,” Birondo said. “I am outrageously excited and honored to be chosen to lead the Rozsa into next year’s 25th anniversary and beyond, continuing to imagine innovative ways for the Rozsa to serve the campus and community.”
Birondo replaces former Director Mary Jennings, who served the organization from 2014 through April 2024.
The announcement is the successful conclusion to the nationwide fivemonth executive director search con-
ducted by a search committee led by Michigan Tech Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair Jared Anderson.
“Kiersten’s passion for the arts, coupled with her experience in arts administration, strong leadership skills, and deep understanding of nearly every aspect of the Rozsa, make her the ideal candidate for this position,” said Jared Anderson, chairperson of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts which houses the Rozsa Center. “We are confident that under her lead-
ership, the Rozsa will thrive and continue to serve as a vital cultural asset for our campus and community. We are so excited for her leadership as we prepare to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Rozsa Center next year.”
Prior to joining the Rozsa Center, Birondo served as Director of Marketing and Communications for SteppingStone Theatre for Youth in St. Paul, and co-founded Now. Make. Art., a Minnesota-based organization that collaborates with community entities like libraries and parks to provide free, youth-centric, multi-generational arts experiences in public spaces. Her experience in the arts has given her a unique perspective on the importance of supporting the creative community.
“I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone involved in the five-month executive director search,” Anderson said. “Thank you to the community members who invested their time and energy into our future, and to the staff who went above and beyond to maintain our operations during this process. I am grateful for the work of the search committee that helped attract a pool of very qualified applicants. The committee’s insights were invaluable in the process of selecting the new Rozsa executive director.” MM
The Rozsa Center, located on the Michigan Tech campus, offers a variety of events and entertainment. (Photo courtesy of Michigan Tech)
Former ACLU president talks free speech at NMU
Nadine Strossen, past president of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), will present “Free Speech and the Crisis of Higher Education: a Conversation with Nadine Strossen” at 1 p.m. on Nov. 21 in 1320 John X. Jamrich Hall at NMU.
A leader at the forefront of constitutional law and civil liberties for decades, Strossen has testified before Congress on multiple occasions and addressed diverse audiences around the world through media commentary and presentations at more than 500 universities.
She was quoted most recently in an Oct. 23 New York Times story related to free speech titled “Professors in Trouble Over Protests Wonder if Academic Freedom Is Dying.” The section she is featured in reads:
“Academic freedom is not absolute. It does not protect ‘propagating wrongheaded ideas’ in teaching or research, said Nadine Strossen, a former head of the American Civil Liberties Union. And it does not put faculty members above the law or above campus rules meant to make sure protests, whatever their point of view,
do not disrupt learning. But it means that academics are broadly allowed the First Amendment right to express opinions or to speak beyond their area of expertise outside the classroom, including on social media. Yet that is where many faculty members are getting into trouble, Ms. Strossen said.”
Strossen is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, and the John Marsall Harlan II Professor of Law Emerita at New York Law School. She continues to serve on advisory boards for the ACLU, Academic Freedom Alliance, National Coalition Against Censorship and other organizations. She was commended for her service to the ACLU by U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Antonin Scalia and David Souter.
Her presentation in Marquette is sponsored by the NMU English Department, the College of Arts and Sciences and Hillel at NMU, along with Scholars for Peace in the Middle East, the Telos-Paul Piccone Institute and Voices for Liberty.
For details, call 906-227-1690. MM
Bay president chosen for Aspen fellowship
TheAspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) announced that Dr. Nerita Hughes, Bay College president, is one of 25 innovative leaders selected from across the country to participate in the second cohort of the Aspen Presidents Fellowship.
The fellows will engage in a unique year-long professional development experience that will help them refine and enact a reform agenda to help more of their students succeed both during and after college.
“Community colleges educate millions of diverse students every year who are relying on them to deliver the education and credentials they need for a fulfilling life and career,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the College Excellence Program. “I am delighted that these 25 accomplished presidents have committed to strengthening their institutions’ strategies to ensure that more students achieve those aims.”
Through the year-long program, fellows will work with highly accomplished community college presi-
dents, Aspen leaders and each other to analyze their college’s outcomes and develop concrete plans inspired by field-leading practices.
The group will engage in a curriculum that will include exemplars from the field, data reports on available good jobs and student outcomes in completion and transfer, and qualitative reports about how well their current practices are aligned to what research reveals has led other colleges to high and equitable levels of student success.
This second cohort of Aspen Presidents Fellows reflects our country’s diverse talent: 52 percent are women and 44 percent are people of color. They join a network of 375 fellowship alumni, 176 of whom are community college presidents today.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to have been selected for this opportunity to advance student success and outcomes at Bay College,” Hughes said. “I look forward to contributing to the growth and future of our community.”
spirit of water
Cool Water
Editor’s note: This article is the third 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 Jeff Noble
Iclearlyremember the best drink of water I ever had…
July 1, 1988 — Stockyard Fire, Rapid River. Late evening. Although the sun is westering, I could swear it’s mid-afternoon. Some sort of temporal glitch, perhaps caused by recent events. The air is filled with smoke, with the sound of firefighting equipment, with aircraft … but I’m sidelined.
I’m with Conservation Officer Ralph B. His face is a study in concern, trepidation and care.
“The ambulance is on its way; you’ll be fine, I’m with you — stay with me.” Ralph holds out a one-quart canteen. He’s a mountainous man; the canteen looks like a baby bottle in his hand. “Take a drink, its well water from my house.”
How can I say no?
Just a sip…
I’m reborn. It’s as though my circuitry has been reset. Pain, anxiety, fear all fade — replaced by acceptance, serenity, calming breath. A gift of life from Mother Earth, shared with me by Ralph.
Where did this water come from? Was it distilled from a cloud that formed over an ancient forest in Canada? Did the cloud drift south over the Upper Peninsula, only to release its gift of life to the waiting earth below? Did the water help sustain and nourish the forest as it percolated through the soil to the water table? Could it be aware that it might comfort me in dire straits?
The second-best drink of water came shortly after.
Hoot-owl early the next day, I’m in the Intensive Care Unit at the burn center of St. Mary’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Dr. Anthony L. is consulting with ICU Nurse Michelle F. I’ve been intubated due to the burns around my face and head. The intubation was more traumatic than the burnover; a greater violation of my sense of self.
thing appropriate:
“Thank you, doctor. I’ll see you later today and we can chat.”
Michelle comes to my bedside.
“What do you need?”
“Water.”
“I can’t give you water yet — doctor’s orders. But I’ve got ice chips.”
“Yes, please.”
She leans in close, so close. Spoon feeds me ice chips gently (with the tiniest dram of water in the spoon). I think the look on her face is beatific; the same look that a woman shared with a weary man beside a well in the Middle East.
(“Your greater trials are still ahead; but rest a second — take a drink of water for what is next.”)
So many, many fires, before that day and in all the days since. So many sips of water — taken hurriedly in the midst of action or taken at leisure when the smoke had cleared. With total strangers and with lifelong friends. All linked, joined. Different seemingly, but essentially the same.
The Spirit of Water
Health, Hope & Healing
I’m tussling with my medical team, via sign language and grunts around my breathing tube:
(Take this (blessed) tube out of my throat!)
“With the burns you have, your airway could easily swell shut. We’d be unable to reinsert it and you might die.”
(On my Mother and All the Saints, I swear I’m not gonna croak. Get this thing out!)
Anthony is adamant; Michelle is persuasive. They come to an understanding. As Anthony prepares to detubate me, he promises me:
“You croak, I’m never going to speak to you again.”
It feels like he’s dragging a rusty, corrugated tube out of my throat by main force. I gasp, then say the only
At this stage of my life, living beside the greatest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior, I am following a new quest. Along with many others, I recognize the priceless gift of water and the vital importance of preserving and protecting clean drinking water for all. I feel this endeavor to be even more vital than my previous work as a wildland firefighter.
I hope, I pray, I believe — someday when I have gone the elements of my body and the water I contain will be proffered up as a gift to the earth and to all creation. That I might slake the thirst or support the life a creature I will never know, but who is loved fully by the Creator and nurtured by Mother Earth as I have been loved and nurtured. And I will abide. As a drop of cool water.
MM
Jeff was born in Detroit in the middle of the previous century. He earned a degree in forestry and had a multi-decade career as a wildland firefighter across the United States and Canada. Jeff was a volunteer for the Cedar Tree Institute in the early ’90s and is a driving force behind the planting of (so far) more than 30,000 white cedar trees in the Upper Peninsula. As a druid, Jeff prays by witnessing the trees returning water to the creation.
The Interfaith Water Stewards Initiative works to celebrate — and protect — the joy of pure water. (Photo courtesy of Cedar Tree Institute)
poetry Suddenly Falling
By Janeen Pergrin Rastall
Winter had come while they lay together. —Tomas Tranströmer
First, frost etches a privacy screen
across the front door pane. Next, webs of ice seal the mailbox shut, stitch the newspaper to frozen grass. Flurries cling to the window screens.
The wind throws a spread of drifts over the lawn mower, the rake, the bag of leaves. While they dream, the pickup’s bed collects the snow.
Janeen Pergrin Rastall is the author of “In the Yellowed House” (dancing girl press, 2014), “Objects May Appear Closer” (Celery City Chapbooks, 2015) and co-author of “Heart Radicals” (About Editions, 2018) and “True Companions” (Gordon Publications, 2017). Her poems have been published in Atticus Review, The Fourth River, North Dakota Quarterly and The Raleigh Review. She has been nominated for Best of the Net Awards and Pushcart Prizes. She is the 2021 winner of the City of Marquette Writer of the Year Award.
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.
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 December events by Sunday, November 10 to: calendar@marquettemonthly.com.
Trick-or-Treating | Oct. 31
end of october events
30 WEDNESDAY sunrise 8:29 a.m.; sunset 6:38 p.m.
Escanaba
• Farmers Market. 3 to 6 p.m. Escanaba Marketplace, 1501 Ludington St. escanabadda.org.
Gwinn
• After School LEGO Club. Schoolaged children are invited to be creative with the library’s LEGO collection while hanging out with friends. 4 to
5 p.m. Forsyth Township Library, 180 W. Flint St. 906-346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Adult Horror Book Club. This month’s nonfiction selection will be “The Troop” by Nick Cutter. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Book Babies. Songs, rhymes, stories
Photo designed by Freepik
on the town
Baraga
• Ojibwa Casino - Pressbox.
- Friday, Nov. 1: Chicken Stanley.
- Saturday, the 2nd: Lost Cause.
- Saturday, the 9th: Super Suits.
- Saturday, the 16th: Rising Phoenix.
- Saturday, the 23rd: Superior Sound. All music, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. 16449 Michigan Ave. 906-353-6333 or ojibwacasino.com.
Gwinn
• Hideaway Bar.
- Mondays: The Hideaway All-Stars. 7 p.m. 741 M-35. 906-346-3178.
Marquette
• 906 Sports Bar and Grill.
- Wednesdays: Trivia. 6:30 p.m. 145 W. Washington St. 906-273-0706 or 906barandgrill.com.
• Blackrocks Brewery.
- Mondays: Trivia. 7 to 9 p.m.
- Wednesdays: Open mic. 6 to 9 p.m.
- Thursday, Nov. 21: Jakey Thomas. 6 to 9 p.m.
424 N. Third St. 906-273-1333 or blackrocksbrewery.com.
• Drifa Brewing Company.
- Mondays: Musicians’ Open Mic. 6 to 8 p.m.
- Thursdays: Trivia. 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 9: Donald Benjamin. 2 to 4 p.m.
- Saturday, the 9th: Whiskey Ryan. 6 to 9 p.m.
- Friday, the 22nd: Iron Daisy Acoustic. 6 to 9 p.m.
- 501 S. Lake St. 906-273-1300.
• Flanigan’s.
- Mondays through Saturdays: Karaoke. 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- Tuesdays: Open Mic. 7 to 10 p.m.
429 W. Washington St. 906-228-8865.
• Kognisjon Bryggeri.Saturday, Nov. 2: Anagram. 8 to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, the 9th: Groove Candy. 7 to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, the 16th: Vinyl Tap. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
- Saturday, the 23rd: The Make-Believe Spurs. 7 to 10 p.m.
- Sundays: Open Mic Night.
- Tuesdays: Trivia. 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
- Wildcat Wednesdays: Live music by 7 Foot Drift and specials for NMU alumni, faculty and staff.
- Thursdays: Game Night with Iron Golem Games with specials for participants. 6 p.m.
- Fridays: Live music by Generations Jazz. 5 p.m. 1034 N. Third St. 906-273-2727.
• Lake Superior Smokehouse Brewpub.
- Friday, Nov. 8: The Make-Believe Spurs.
- Saturday, the 9th: DayDreamers.
- Friday, the 15th: Vinyl Tap.
- Saturday, the 16th: Flat Broke Blues Band.
- Friday, the 22nd: Boots and Sandals.
- Saturday, the 23rd: Jim and Ray.
- Sunday, the 30th: Big Lake Acoustic. All music, 6 to 9 p.m.
200 W. Main St. 906-273-0952.
• Ojibwa Casino-Marquette Lounge.
- Saturday, Nov. 2: Reveal.
- Friday, the 8th: Adam Carpenter.
- Saturday, the 16th: Superior Sound.
- Saturday, the 23: Lost Cause.
- Friday, the 29th: Diversion.
All music, 8 p.m. to midnight.
105 Acre Tr. (906) 249-4200 or ojibwacasino.com.
• Ore Dock Brewing Company.
- Friday, Nov. 1: Summers End Smokeout. Ages 21 and older. $15. 6 p.m.
- Saturday, the 2nd: The Make-Believe Spurs. 8 p.m.
- Sunday, the 3rd: Pop Culture Trivia. 2 p.m.
- Tuesday, the 12th: Euchre Tournament. 7 p.m.
- Thursday, the 14th: Ladies Day Pop Up Shop. 5 p.m.
- Friday, the 15th: Joshua Davis. Ages 16 and
older. $25. 7 p.m.
- Saturday, the 16th: The Go Rounds. Ages 18 and older. $10. 9 p.m.
- Sunday, the 17th: Books and Brews Holiday Edition with Snowbound Books. 1 to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, the 17th: Breathe Owl Breathe. In advance, $12; day of show, $15. 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, the 19th: Euchre Tournament. 7 p.m.
- Thursday, the 21st: Superior on Tap. 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, the 26th: Euchre Tournament. 7 p.m.
- Friday, the 29th: Leftover Turkey with Jakey Thomas. 8 p.m. All shows are free unless noted. 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• Superior Culture.
- Tuesdays: Open Mic night. 8 to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 16: Same Eyes/Time Creep/ Bimbo. 8 p.m.
717 Third Street. 906-273-0927 or superiorculturemqt.com.
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.
• Powerful Tools for Caregivers (Online). This online workshop will take place weekly for six weeks. 11 a.m. Via Zoom. To register, call 2-1-1 or visit upcap.org.
• 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.
• Home School Chapter Book Discussion. Home school teens, ages 11 and older, will discuss “Amari and the Despicable Wonder” by B.B. Alston. 1 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl. info.
• ‘Twas the Night Before Halloween Storytime. Families with youth of all ages can enjoy Halloween stories, songs and more. Costumes are highly encouraged and children can take part in a Halloween parade. Guests can also trick-or-treat on their way out. 6 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• 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. Planned by the Junior Teen Advisory Group, there will be a haunted house, games, snacks and more. Participants are welcome to bring a pumpkin to carve and there will be a costume contest. 6 to 8 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
Skandia
• Farmers and Crafters Market. 4 to 7 p.m. 9271 U.S. Hwy. 41 S.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Open Group. Participants can bring their portable handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1
Zodiac Trio | Nov. 1 | Marquette
Photo courtesy of NMU
p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Gwinn
• Trick-or-Treat at the Library. Children and families are invited to trick or treat for candy while supplies last. 5 to 7 p.m. Forsyth Township Library, 180 W. Flint St. 906-346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
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
• 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.
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• 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.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance/ frankenstein.
Negaunee
• Music, Movement and More. Children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome to attend this parent-led storytime. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour drop-in play session 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. 906475-7700, 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.
november events
01 FRIDAY
sunrise 8:31 a.m.; sunset 6:35 p.m.
Escanaba
• Laser Tag Fundraiser. Each ticket allows approximately 40 mintues of game time. Procceds benefit Bay College student organizations and athletic teams. Recommended for those age seven and older. Bay College students, free; nonstudents, $5. 4 to 8 p.m. Room 952, University Center, Bay College. 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
Ishpeming
• Casual Card Making: Holiday Edition. Local papercrafter Susan Boback will provide supplies to make two holiday-themed cards. Individuals can also bring their own papercrafts or projects, and socialize with fellow crafters. Bring a snack or lunch. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. To register, 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
• Small Business Celebration. The inaugural Marquette County Small Business Celebration, hosted by the Lake Superior Community Partnership, will recognize three outstanding small businesses as well as a Small Business Champion. Heavy appetizers will be provided. Halloween costumes are optional. 5:30 to 8 p.m. The Mather, 107 E. Canda St. marquette.org/events.
Marquette
• Indigenous Perspectives Symposium on Art. This symposium will include speakers, panelists, music, art and more. The keynote speaker will be Red Lake Ojibwe artist Jonathan Thunder and a screening of “Bring Them Home” narrated by Lily Gladstone will take place at 6 p.m. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Northern Center, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., NMU. 906-227-1554 or jschapp@nmu.edu.
• 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.
• Zodiac Trio Music Appreciation Presentation. Presented by the clarinet, violin and piano ensemble. 11 a.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.edu/ music.
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St.
906-373-6183.
• 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.
• Zodiac Trio Masterclass. Presented by the clarinet, violin and piano ensemble. 1 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.edu/music.
• 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.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance/ frankenstein.
• Zodiac Trio. The clarinet, violin and piano ensemble will perform as part of the Siril Concert Series. NMU students and youth 18 and younger, free; adults, $12. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.universitytickets.com.
Negaunee
• “Come Write In” Writing Session. Aspiring authors can bring their laptop or use a public computer to write in a peaceful environment. Librarians will be available to help with research and refreshments will be provided. 10 a.m. to noon. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-4757700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
02 SATURDAY
sunrise 8:33 a.m.; sunset 6:33 p.m.
Crystal Falls
• WÖR. This band of five musicians injects new energy into 18th-century melodies from the Flanders region of Belgium. Students, $5; adults, $23. 7 p.m CDT. The Crystal Theatre, 304 Superior Ave. 906-875-3208 or thecrystaltheatre.org.
Escanaba
• Bonifas Holiday Art & Craft Fair. This annual fair includes items from more than 20 artists and crafters. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bonifas Arts Center, 700 First Ave. S. 906-786-3833 or bonifasarts.org
• Laser Tag Fundraiser. Each ticket allows approximately 40 mintues of game time. Procceds benefit Bay College student organizations and athletic teams. Recommended for those age seven and older. Bay College students, free; nonstudents, $5. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Room 952, University Center, Bay College. 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• 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.
Marquette
• Farm Stands. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket.com.
• St. Michael Catholic Church Christmas Bazaar. There will be jewelry, baked goods, white elephant items, craft tables, and a holiday and religious booth. Raffle tickets and lunch can be purchased. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Michael Catholic Church, 401 W. Kaye Ave. 906-228-8180.
• MMRT Winter Sports Swap. This winter sporting goods swap will benefit the Marquette Mountain Racing Team (MMRT). Children 14 and younger, free; adults, $5. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-7669.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• 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.
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 11 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
• Art Adventures for Children: Latin America. The Lake Superior Art Association will host this workshop for children ages seven to 12 to create artwork in Latin American style using markers and paint. 1 p.m. Studio 1, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. marlenesew@gmail.com.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 1 p.m. Theatre for All (Pay As You May ticketing) and 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/ theatreanddance/frankenstein.
Negaunee
• Pokémon Club. Youth ages seven and older can play Pokémon card games, discuss their favorite Pokémon, trade cards, make friends and have fun. 10 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
03 SUNDAY
sunrise 7:34 a.m.; sunset 5:32 p.m.
art galleries
Calumet
• Calumet Art Center. Artwork by Bobbi Shirey will be on display from 5 to 8 p.m. on the 15th, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the 16th and 1 to 3 p.m. on the 17th. Works by local and regional artists. Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 57055 Fifth St. 906-934-2228. calumetartcenter.com.
• Copper Country Associated Artist. Works by members and workshop participants in watercolor and oil, drawings, photography, sculpture, quilting, wood, textile, clay, glass and other media. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 205 Fifth St. 906-337-1252 or ccaartists.org.
• Gallery on 5th. Featuring works by local and regional artists. Call or visit Facebook for up-to-date store hours. 906-299-0118 or galleryon5th.com.
• My Story Gallery at Keweenaw Storytelling Center. Presented by Real People Media, the gallery shares stories of ordinary residents through multimedia exhibits. Contact for updated hours. 215 Fifth St. 906-9342346 or realpeoplemedia.org.
Curtis
• Erickson Center for the Arts–Waterfront Gallery.
- “The Art of the Record Sleeve: A Gallery Exhibit,” by Arthur Mazzola and Ed Johnson, a personal collection of more than 200 record sleeves and picture discs dating back to the late 1950s, is on display through Jan. 17, 2025.
- “Collectables as Art,” featuring collections of antique painted tin trays, fishing rods and lures, and Middle Eastern woven storage bags on loan from Scott Barr of Blaney Park Antiques, is on display through Jan. 17, 2025.
The gallery features unique work from local artists, including photography, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, paintings and more. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 906-586-9974 or ericksoncenter.org.
Copper Harbor
• EarthWorks Gallery. Featuring Lake Superior-inspired photography by Steve Brimm. Daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 216 First St. 906-231-6318.
Escanaba
• Besse Gallery. Featuring works by Bay College students and local artists. Days and hours vary. Bay College, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• East Ludington Gallery. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1000 Ludington St. (across the street from the gallery’s previous location).
906-786-0300 or eastludingtongallery.com.
• Hartwig Gallery. Featuring works by local, regional and national artists. Days and hours vary. Bay College, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollege.edu.
• William Bonifas Fine Arts Gallery.
- “Northern Exposure XXXI,” which encourages U.P. artists to create new works, will be on display Nov. 7 through Dec. 28 in the Powers Gallery with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 7th.
- “The 100 Day Project,” featuring works made by participating artists from Jan. 22 to April 30 will be on display Nov. 7 through Dec. 28 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. 906-7863833 or bonifasarts.org.
Hancock
• Finandia Art Gallery. “Foretelling the Future, Reflecting the Past,” a textile exhibit by Laura Foster Nicholson, is on display through the 13th. 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. 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
Dave Berg | Autumn Lingers | Huron Mountain Club Gallery, Marquette
art galleries
(continued from page 80)
• The Rozsa Galleries.
- “that thing between my teeth is my foot,” featuring artwork by Douglas Degges, is on display through the 2nd.
- “The Journey,” featuring works by MTU students, will be on display Nov. 22 through Dec. 3.
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. Monday through Saturday through the 31st, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 244 Cedar St. info@lakeeffectarts.org.
Marquette
• Art—U.P. Style. Art by Carol Papaleo, works by local artists, gifts, classes and more. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 130 W. Washington St. 906-225-1993.
• DeVos Art Museum.
- “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, is 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, is on display through Dec. 13. Monday through Wednesday, and Friday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.; Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Corner of Seventh and Tracy streets. NMU. 906-227-1481 or nmu.edu/devos.
• The Gallery Marquette. 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
Daylight Saving Time ends
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Marquette
• Geoff and Jon’s Record Show. Thousands of new and used vinyl records, CDs, posters, cassettes, books and T-shirts will be available. Presented by the NMU Vinyl Record Club. Noon to 5 p.m. Community Room, Ore Dock Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-373-6183.
04
p.m. Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Suite U7, 130 W. Washington St. thegallerymqt.com.
• Graci Gallery. Works by Ronna Katz will be on display Nov. 6 through Dec. 1 with an artist reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 8th. 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.
- “Chiseled and Inked” featuring Linocut reduction printmaking by David Berg is on display through the 30th. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-0472.
• Lake Superior Photo and Gallery. The studio features landscape photographic art by Shawn Malone, including naturescapes of the Lake Superior region. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 211 S. Front St. 906-228-3686 or lakesuperiorphoto.com.
• Marquette Arts and Culture Center Deo Gallery. The Lake Superior Art Association Community Challenge Show “Opposites” will be on display through Nov. 30 with a public reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 7th. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-228-0472.
• Niik Creative Co. Handcrafted and local artisan goods. Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 2905 Island Beach Rd.
• Presque Isle Station. This working pottery studio features pottery by Michael Horton and Terry Gilfoy, along with works by local artists. Days and times vary. 2901 Lakeshore
Ishpeming
• Connected at Home: Book Club (Phone-based). The Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library and Ishpeming Senior Center are collaborating to bring a phone-based book club to people who want to participate from home. This month’s selection will be “The Celebrants” by Steven Rowley. 11 a.m. To sign up for the program, call 906-485-5527.
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.
- Photography by Matthew Songer will be on display through the 30th with a reception during Ladies Night Out from 4 to 8 p.m. on the 21st. 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. 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.
will learn basic punch needle skills and leave with their own handmade project. Starter kits will be provided. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• NMU Student Art Gallery Pop Up. 5 p.m. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-2288888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• NCLL: Behind the Lens of NCLL Photographers. Elizabeth Bates, Bryn Smith and Ron Mattson, of the organization’s Photo Interest Group, will demonstrate techniques and approaches to photo composition. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 6:30 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 248-767-5973 or lzbinns@yahoo.com.
• The Joy of Sound Meditation. This
meditation uses the sounds produced by bronze singing bowls and metallic gongs. The focus will be on the peaceful upcoming election and transfer of power. 7 p.m. Chapel, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. 906-362-9934 or ckitchenmqt@gmail. com.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
05 TUESDAY sunrise 7:37 a.m.;
Election Day
Escanaba
p.m.
• 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. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Matter of Balance. This free eight-week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Noon. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, call 906-228-0456.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• Oil Painting, Pastels and Drawing Classes with Marlene Wood. Bring your own supplies. $20. 1 p.m. Marquette Arts and Culture Center, Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-225-8655.
• Comic Creators 2.0. Youth in second through fifth grades can write, illustrate and publish their own graphic novel as well as socialize with other graphic novel/comic book fans, talk about favorite books, create stories and make comic-based crafts. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Maritime History on Tap. National Weather Service Marquette
Meteorologist Matt Zika will present “Improvements in Weather Forecasting Throughout the Years.” He will discuss the weather forecasting for some of the biggest fall storms that have impacted the Great Lakes and resulted in ship losses. Suggested donation, $5. 7 p.m. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
06 WEDNESDAY
sunrise 7:39 a.m.; sunset 5:28 p.m.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Crochet Club. This is a time to gather with fellow crafters to socialize. Supplies and instruction will be provided for those who are interested in learning how to crochet. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
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 Room Book Group. This book group welcomes readers interested in a variety of contemporary fiction. This month’s selection will be “I Have Some Questions for You” by Rebecca Makkai. 10 a.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4311 or pwpl.info.
• Director Chat. Stop by the library to chat with Director Andrea Ingmire. 11 a.m. to noon, and 5 to 6 p.m. Circulation Lobby, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Powerful Tools for Caregivers (Online). This online workshop will take place weekly for six weeks. 11 a.m. Via Zoom. To register, call 2-1-1 or visit upcap.org.
• 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. Part 3: Exercise Your Brain. Attendees will learn how to focus on strategies that will help strengthen attention, concentration, decision-making, memory and problem solving. 1 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. 906-225-7760.
• Senior Visual Art Classes: Natural Object Art with Marlene Wood. 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.
• Teens Game On! Youth in sixth through 12th grades can drop in for video games, board games and more. 3 to 6 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4321, email apierce@pwpl.info or visit pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Warrior Cats. Youth of all ages are welcome at this fandom event based on the Warrior Cats series. Participants will find their Clan and Warrior Cat Names, plant a Medicine Cat Garden Pot, create a Warrior Cats Headband and receive a one-of-a-kind painted scar from the NMU Theater and Dance Department. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Mind and Body with the Marquette Alzheimer’s Association. A representative of the Alzheimer’s Association will present a program on aging, dementia and health, and offer information for caregivers and their loved ones dealing with mind and body issues. This month’s topic will be communication. 6:30 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Quilters Association Meeting. All skill levels are invited for socialization, program events and show and tell. Yearly membership fee, $20. 6 p.m. Lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. marquettequilters.org.
• 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.
• Stand U.P. Comedy Festival. This free comedy showcase will feature Ross Huff, Cody Calebra, Ella Horwedel, Carl Merrick, Eileen Norton and Vincent Schultz. Intended for ages 18 and older. 7 p.m. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
Negaunee
• 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.
• After-school Youth Hangout. Tweens and teens can relax in the library and enjoy snacks. This month will focus on writing with writing prompts, story help and open mic sessions. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
07 THURSDAY
sunrise 7:40 a.m.; sunset 5:26 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet Open Group. Participants can bring their portable
Stand U.P. Comedy Festival | Nov. 6 to 9 | Marquette
Photo designed by Freepik
handwork project and enjoy an informal social time. Open to everyone. 1 p.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary.org.
Escanaba
• Bay Film Series: “Didi.” Director Sean Wang’s coming-of-age comedy tells the story about a thirteen year old Taiwanese boy heading to high school. Students, $2; nonstudents, $5. 7 p.m. Besse Center Theater, 2001 N. Lincoln Rd. baycollegetix.com.
Houghton
• 41 North Film Festival. This free film festival showcases award-winning independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country and world, provides opportunities for engagement and discussion, and offers chances to interact with filmmakers. Screenings begin at 5 p.m. Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, MTU. 41northfilmfest.mtu.edu.
Ishpeming
• Book Club. This month’s selection will be “The Celebrants” by Steven Rowley. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Senior Center, 121 Greenwood St. 906-4864381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Graphic Novel Book Club. Students in fourth through eighth grade can enjoy snacks and a book discussion. New members are welcome. 4 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Toddler Storytime. Stories, songs and sensory play activities will be offered for children 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: Longyear Research Library and History Museum Tour. Beth Gruber, research librarian at the John M. Longyear Research Library, and Emily Varga, History Center tour guide, will share the library’s history and what it has to offer, and lead a guided tour through the museum’s exhibits and galleries. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10 plus $8 for museum admission (free admission for Marquette Regional History Center members). 11 a.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. 906250-3883 or mlichtmallo@charter.net.
• School’s Out, Library’s In: “Wish.” Youth of all ages can drop in for crafts and activities, such as bubble wrap painting, Thanksgiving cards and more. The film “Wish” will be screened at 12:45 p.m. in the Community Room. Kids are welcome to bring lunch or snacks for the movie. Noon to 5 p.m. Youth Services Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested
players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• AARP Tax-Aide Program Informational Meeting. The AARP Tax-Aide Program is seeking volunteers in Marquette, Ishpeming and Negaunee to provide free, high-quality tax preparation services to low and moderate income taxpayers, with special attention to those aged 60 and older. This meeting will explain the program and available opportunities. 2 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for the meeting, visit aarpfoundation.org/ taxaide or call 906-256-0584.
• Marty Achatz Book Release. Twotime U.P. Poet Laureate Marty Achatz will mark the release of his new collection of poems, “A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders.” 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• “Finding Nemo JR.” SAY Theater will stage this musical based on the 2003 Pixar film “Finding Nemo” with a cast of more than 60 students in eighth grade and under. In advance, students, $9; adults, $15. At the door, students, $11; adults, $17. 7 p.m. Forest Roberts Theatre, NMU. saytheater.org/nemo. For tickets, 906-227-1032 or nmu.universitytickets.com.
• Stand U.P. Comedy Festival. The 7 p.m. show will feature Alex Bozinovic and headliner Stewart Huff. The 9:30 p.m. show will be a local showcase. Intended for ages 18 and older. $15 per show. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-2288888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance/ frankenstein.
Negaunee
• Music, Movement and More. Children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome to attend this parent-led storytime. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour drop-in play session is designed to stimulate a child’s senses and foster cognitive development through shapethemed 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.
Houghton
• 41 North Film Festival. This free film festival showcases award-winning independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country and world, provides opportunities for engagement and discussion, and offers chances to interact with filmmakers. Screenings begin at 3:30 p.m. Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, MTU. 41northfilmfest.mtu.edu.
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. This week will feature a LEGO program called “Build the Change” presented in partnership with the Michigan Science Center. 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: “Fighting Indians.” In honor of Native American History Month, this documentary explores the passage of LD 944, an act to ban Native American mascots in all public schools in the state of Maine—the first legislation of its kind in the country. The film is not rated. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• School’s Out, Library’s In: “Kung-Fu Panda 4.” Youth of all ages can drop in for crafts and activities, such as a LEGO free-build, panda bookmark corners and more. The film “Kung-Fu Panda 4” will be screened at 12:45 p.m. in the Community Room. Kids are welcome to bring lunch or snacks for the movie. Noon to 4 p.m. Youth Services Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod. com.
• 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.
• “Finding Nemo JR.” SAY Theater will stage this musical based on the 2003 Pixar film “Finding Nemo” with a cast of more than 60 students in eighth grade and under. In advance, students, $9; adults, $15. At the door, students, $11; adults, $17. 7 p.m. Forest Roberts Theatre, NMU. saytheater.org/nemo. For tickets, 906-227-1032 or nmu.universitytickets.com.
• “Les Miserables.” This Tony Awardwinning musical based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 book of redemption and revolution in 19th century Paris will be performed by Marquette Senior High School students. Students and seniors, $10; adults, $15. 7 p.m. Kaufman Auditorium, 611 N. Front St. nmu.universitytickets.com.
• Stand U.P. Comedy Festival. The 7 p.m. show will feature Will Green and headliner David Dyer. The 9:30 p.m. show will feature Kyle Ruff and headliner Matt Cobos. Intended for ages 18 and older. $15 per show. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free and open to ages 55 and older. No pre-registration required. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave. 906-228-0456.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/theatreanddance/ frankenstein.
• “Journeys in Harmony.” The Marquette Male Chorus will present their fall concert, titled “Journeys in Harmony,” featuring music related to destinations across North America and Europe. Suggested donation, $10. 7:30 p.m. Messiah Lutheran Church, 305 W. Magnetic St. 906-249-9867.
Negaunee
• “Come Write In” Writing Session. Aspiring authors can bring their laptop or use a public computer to write in a peaceful environment. Librarians will be available to help with research and refreshments will be provided.
10 a.m. to noon. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-4757700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
09 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:43 a.m.; sunset 5:24 p.m.
Escanaba
• LEGO Club. This month’s theme is “Thankful.” 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-7897323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Houghton
• 41 North Film Festival. This free film festival showcases award-winning independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country and world,
provides opportunities for engagement and discussion, and offers chances to interact with filmmakers. Screenings begin at noon. Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, MTU. 41northfilmfest.mtu.edu.
Ishpeming
• Spread Kindness Craft. Children and families can drop in anytime to create seasonal décor that will be donated to Marquette County Medical Care Facility (MCMCF). The program is funded by the Literacy Legacy Fund of Michigan. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Cricut 101. Attendees will learn the basics of Cricut Design Space to create a basic vinyl sticker with a cut-out shape or text. Bring your Cricut device with Design Space, adhesive vinyl, cutting mats, weeding tools and a surface. Transfer tape is recommended, but not required. 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Farm Stands. 10 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. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring 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.
• NSDAR Meeting. This is the monthly meeting of the Onagomingkway Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Please bring a bag lunch. Noon. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-7836.
• “Finding Nemo JR.” SAY Theater will stage this musical based on the 2003 Pixar film “Finding Nemo” with a cast of more than 60 students in eighth grade and under. In advance, students and Theatre for All, $9; adults, $15. At the door, students and Theatre for All, $11; adults, $17. 1 p.m. Theatre for All and 7 p.m. Forest Roberts Theatre, NMU. saytheater.org/nemo. For tickets, 906-227-1032 or nmu.universitytickets.com.
• “Les Miserables.” This Tony Awardwinning musical based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 book of redemption and revolution in 19th century Paris will be performed by Marquette Senior High School students. Students and seniors, $10; adults, $15. 1 and 7 p.m. Kaufman Auditorium, 611 N. Front St. nmu.universitytickets.com.
• Stand U.P. Comedy Festival. The 6 p.m. show will include headliners Georgia Comstock and Nic Dean. The 8:30 p. m. show will feature Wesley Ward and headliner Steve Gillespie. The 11 p.m. show will include Thick Skin with Mike Stanley and Matt Cobos. Intended for ages 18 and older. $20 per show. Ore Dock Brewing Brewing Company, 114 W. Spring St. 906-228-8888 or oredockbrewing.com.
• “Frankenstein.” Watch as scientist Victor Frankenstein chases the creature he brought to life. NMU students, $5; youth, $15; NMU employees, seniors and military, $22; general public, $25. 1 and 7:30 p.m. Panowski Black Box Theatre, NMU. nmu.edu/ theatreanddance/frankenstein.
Michigamme
• Holiday Market. Shop for items from U.P. artisans. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Community Building, 202 W. Main St.
Negaunee
• Pokémon Club. Youth ages seven and older can play Pokémon card games, discuss their favorite Pokémon, trade cards, make friends and have fun. 10 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Bigfoot Selfies Tour. Two-time U.P. Poet Laureate Marty Achatz, author of the poetry collection “A Bigfoot Bestiary and Other Wonders,” and fellow poet Ronnie Ferguson will offer a poetry reading, musical performance and book signing. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook. com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
Calumet
• Tampico Crumb Brush with Sandra VanPatten. Teens and adults can create a smaller version of a turkey tail whisk broom made with Tampico fiber from the agave plant. Materials included. $25. 1 p.m. Calumet Art Center, 57055 Fifth St. To register, text 906-281-4384.
• Superior School of Dance: Fall Concert of Dance. This concert style show will feature longer dances choreographed by the school’s instructors. Youth, $11; adults, $16. 3 p.m. Calumet Theatre,340 Sixth St. 906-337-2610 or calumettheatre.com.
Houghton
• 41 North Film Festival. This free film festival showcases award-winning independent films and filmmakers from around the region, country and world, provides opportunities for engagement and discussion, and offers chances to interact with filmmakers. Screenings begin at 1 p.m. Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, MTU. 41northfilmfest.
mtu.edu.
Ishpeming
• Bingo. Doors open at noon. Ishpeming VFW, 310 Bank St. 906-486-4856.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Marquette
• “Finding Nemo JR.” SAY Theater will stage this musical based on the 2003 Pixar film “Finding Nemo” with a cast of more than 60 students in eighth grade and under. In advance, students, $9; adults, $15. At the door, students, $11; adults, $17. 1 p.m. Forest Roberts Theatre, NMU. saytheater.org/nemo. For tickets, 906-227-1032 or nmu.universitytickets.com.
Rock
• Senior Dance. Music will be performed by Old Friends. The dance will raise money for the Rock Senior Corporation. $7. 1 to 4 p m. Rock Senior Center, 3892 W. Mapleridge 37 Rd.
11 MONDAY
sunrise 7:46 a.m.; sunset 5:21 p.m.
Veterans Day
Marquette
• 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.
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.
12 TUESDAY
sunrise 7:47 a.m.; sunset 5:20 p.m.
Calumet
• Friends of the Library Meeting. New members are welcome to learn about programming ideas, volunteer opportunities, the Red Jacket Readers book club and more. 5:30 p.m. Community Room, Calumet Public Library. 906-337-0311.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Gwinn
• Literature at the Lodge. This month’s selection will be “The Giver of Stars” by Jojo Moyes. 7 p.m. Up North Lodge, 215 S. Co. Rd. 557. 906346-3433 or forsythtwplibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and playtime will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Book Club. This month’s selection will be “Stealing” by Margaret Verble. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
• Ishpeming Area Historical Society Annual General Meeting. The night will begin with a meet-and-greet with refreshments, followed by a prsentation where Karen Kasper will discuss the history of the Mather Inn, Nelson House. and conclude with the annual meeting Refreshments, 6:30 p.m. Presentation, 7 p.m. The Mather, 107 E. Canda St. 906-486-8680.
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 passwords with you. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Tasty Reads Book Group. The group welcomes readers who love to cook. This month’s selection will be “Garlic and Sapphires” by Ruth Reichl. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or pwpl.info.
• Matter of Balance. This free eight-week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Noon. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, call 906-228-0456.
• 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.
• Muggles for Potter, Grades 3-6. Young wizards can make their wizard’s quill, use a wax seal to design their house parchment and test their “Harry Potter” knowledge in a trivia game. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• 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.
• “The Last Ecstatic Days.” This documentary about the end of life is described as a “sensory immersion into leaving the body.” The film is not rated. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• NCLL: Waterfalls, Woods and Wind: Four California National Parks. This program will be a recap of Carol Margrif’s trip with her two sons to Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia and Joshua Tree National Parks, as well as the Borax Mining Center and an underground garden/home in Fresno. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-458-5408 or csteinha@nmu.edu.
• Superiorland Woodturners Meeting. Norm Dill will turn an inside out ornament. 6:30 p.m. Lab One, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. jmarchimes@ charter.net.
Negaunee
• Dinosaur Trivia Night. This family-friendly event will test participants’ prehistoric knowledge through three rounds of questions. Teams can be up to six players with prizes awarded to the top three teams. 5 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. To register, 906-475-7700, ext. 18, or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
13 WEDNESDAY
sunrise 7:49 a.m.; sunset 5:19 p.m.
Houghton
• “The Glass Menagerie.” This largely autobiographical play by Tennessee Williams tells the story of his family’s struggle to find their place in an ever-changing world. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. McArdle Theatre, MTU. mtu.universitytickets. com.
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Writing Session. Writers can bring their own laptop or writing tools and write in the library’s quiet space. 4 to 5:30 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Book Club. This month’s selection is “Stealing” by Margaret Verble. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
Calumet
• Red Jacket Readers Book Club. This month’s selection will be “Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett. Sponsored by the Friends of the Calumet Public Library. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Calumet Public Library. 906-3370311, ext. 1107.
• 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.
• Powerful Tools for Caregivers (Online). This online workshop will take place weekly for six weeks. 11 a.m. Via Zoom. To register, call 2-1-1
• Northwords and Music: Momentous Show. Writer B.G. Bradley, poet Marty Achatz, musicians Linda Smith and Seamus Collins of Big Lake Acoustic, actress Jacque Love and The Make-Believe Spurs will present an evening of music, stories, poetry and skits. This event will also be livestreamed. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
• Laughing Whitefish Bird Alliance Meeting and Social. Participants are invited to bring photographs of birds and other nature-oriented subjects to share with the audience. Refreshments will be served. Bring photos on a CD, DVD or jump drive; a computer and digital projector will be provided. 7 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St.
Negaunee
• 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.
or visit upcap.org.
• 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.
• Home School Chapter Book Discussion. Home school teens ages 11 and older will discuss the graphic novel “Nimona” by ND Stevenson. 1 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• unTITLEd Teens. Teens in Grades six to 12 are invited to a new program that will be different very month. 3 p.m. Teen Zone, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Narwhal and Jelly. Fans of “Unicorn of the Sea! Narwal and Jelly” will play with sand dough, challenge their aim with a narwhal ring toss, decorate a tentacle to add to the library’s Giant Jelly Fish Art project and more. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Art After Loss: Creating Memory Boxes. Participants can bring a box of their choosing along with special fabric, photos, jewelry, etc. to decorate the box. Art supplies will be provided. 5 p.m. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register, 906-225-7760 or cvoce@lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• Community Knit/Crochet Club. 5:30 p.m. Alley Kat’s Quilt Shop, 1010 W. Washington St. 906-315-0050.
• After-school Youth Hangout. Tweens and teens can relax in the library and enjoy snacks. This month will focus on writing with writing prompts, story help and open mic sessions. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
14
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• 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. clklibrary.org.
Crystal Falls
• U.P. Notable Books Club (Zoom). The guest will be Sue Harrison, author of “The Midwife’s Touch.” 7 p.m. EDT, 6 p.m. CDT. Via Zoom. 906-875-3344 or egathu@crystalfallslibrary.org. upnotable.com.
Houghton
• “The Glass Menagerie.” This largely autobiographical play by Tennessee Williams tells the story of his family’s struggle to find their place in an ever-changing world. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. McArdle
Dinosaur Trivia Night | Nov. 12 | Negaunee
Photo by Lucas George Wendt via unsplash
Theatre, MTU. mtu.universitytickets. com.
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 passwords with you. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• 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.
• Advance Directive Lunch and Learn. This session will offer information on the importance of an advanced directive. a legal document that outlines a person’s preferences or medical care and who should make decisions for them if they are unable to communicate their wishes. A virtual option will also be available. Noon. Lake Superior Hospice, 914 W. Baraga Ave. To register, call 906-225-7760 or email jbarbiere@lakesuperiorhospice.org.
• 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.
• NCLL: Behind the Scenes of “Anatomy of a Murder.” Clara Kiecher will share her story of how she became a manicurist for the cast and crew of the classic 1959 film “Anatomy of a Murder.” NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 1 p.m. Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1700 W. Fair Ave. 906-225-1004 or hoosieryooper80@ gmail.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.
• Second Thursday Creativity Series. Guests can enjoy hands-on craft activities and free Culver’s frozen custard. This month’s theme will be “Turkeys, Turkeys, Turkeys!” 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.
• Yarnwinders Fiber Guild of Marquette. 6 p.m. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center, lower level, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St.
• Marquette Poets Circle. Local poets, writers, and poetry enthusiasts gather to workshop their current
work, followed by an open mic. New and experienced poets are welcome for either or both events. Workshop, 6:30 p.m.; open mic, 7:15 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
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.
• 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.
15 FRIDAY
Houghton
• “The Glass Menagerie.” This largely autobiographical play by Tennessee Williams tells the story of his family’s struggle to find their place in an ever-changing world. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. McArdle Theatre, MTU. mtu.universitytickets.
Ishpeming
• Afternoon Movie: “Winnie the Pooh.” This screening of 2011’s “Winnie the Pooh” (Rated G) will take place because of early dismissal for Ishpeming Schools and no school for Negaunee. Popcorn and water will be provided; bring your own snacks or drinks. 1 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Global Cinema: Roberto Benigni’s “Life is Beautiful.” In this Italian film, director and star Roberto Benigni tells the story of a Jewish-Italian bookshop owner who employs his imagination to shield his young son from the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp. Rated PG-13. Noon. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. 12:30 p.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W.
museums
Calumet
• International Frisbee/USA Guts Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the history of Guts Frisbee. Days and hours vary. Open when events are held. Second floor ballroom, Calumet Colosseum, 110 Red Jacket Rd. 906-281-7625.
Escanaba
• Upper Peninsula Military Museum and Honor Flight Legacy Museum. The museum honors Upper Peninsula veterans, and features exhibits and dioramas portraying the Upper Peninsula’s contribution to U.S. war efforts from the Civil War through the Afghanistan wars. Learn the history of the honor flight trips. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Inside the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, 1001 N. Lincoln Rd.
• Webster Marble Inventing the Outdoors Museum. Webster Marble came to the U.P. in the late 1880s to be a timber cruiser and surveyor, but later became an inventor. He held 60 patents and invented a long list of gear for camping, hiking, hunting and fishing, including a safety ax with an attached blade guard that folded into the handle. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1001 N. Lincoln Road. 906-786-2192 or deltami.org/ webster-marble-inventing-the-outdoors-museum.
Hancock
• Quincy Mine Hoist and Underground Mine. There are two options for touring the site. On both the surface tour and the full tour, visitors will see the museum, inside the No. 2 Shaft House and the Nordberg Steam Hoist and ride the cog rail tram car to the mine entrance. On the full tour, visitors will take a tractor-pulled wagon into the mine, seven levels underground. Prices vary. Daily, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Nov. 9. 49750 US-41. 906-482-3101 or quincymine.com.
Houghton
• A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum. View the exhibit on Yooperlites, sodalite-bearing syenites that possess fluorescent properties. 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. 906-487-2572.
• Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw. Exhibits include “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 for dewatering Iron Mountain’s Chapin Mine, one of the wettest mines ever worked and the largest producer of iron ore on the Menominee Iron Range. The museum also displays underground mining equipment.
Children five and younger, free; students, $5; seniors and veterans, $7; adults, $8. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT. 300 Kent St. 906-774-1086 or menomineemuseum.com.
• World War II Glider and Military Museum. During World War II, the Ford Motor Company’s Kingsford plant built the CG-4A gliders for the U.S. Army. View one of seven fully restored CG-4A G World War II gliders, military uniforms from the Civil War through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, memorabilia, restored military vehicles and more. Prices vary. Children five and younger, free; students, $5; seniors and veterans, $7; adults, $8. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CDT. 302 Kent St. 906-774-1086 or menomineemuseum.com.
Ishpeming
• U.S. National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum features more than 300 Hall of Fame inductees, presented in photographs and biographies, and displays and exhibits of skiing history and equipment, an extensive library, video show, gift shop, special events and more. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. US-41 and Third Street. 906-485-6323 or skihall.com.
K.I. Sawyer
• K.I. Sawyer Heritage Air Museum. The museum promotes and preserves the aviation history the air base brought to the area. Air Force-related materials are on display, including photographs, flags, medals and more. Wednesday through Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment. 402 Third St. 906-236-3502 or kisawyerheritageairmuseum.org.
Marquette
• Baraga Educational Center and Museum. View artifacts and tools used by Venerable Bishop Baraga. 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” is 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 Regional History Center.
- “School Days: Educating Marquette
County,” which explores the educational history of Marquette County, is on display through February 2025. The museum also includes interactive displays as well as regional history exhibits. Youth 12 and under, $3; students, $4; seniors and military, $8; adults, $10. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 145 W. Spring St. 906-226-3571 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.
Munising
• Alger County Historical Society Heritage Center. Exhibits include the Grand Island Recreation Area, Munising Woodenware Company, barn building, homemaking, sauna and more. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1496 Washington St. 906-387-4308.
Negaunee
• Michigan Iron Industry Museum. In the forested ravines of the Marquette Iron Range, the museum overlooks the Carp River and the site of the first iron forge in the Lake Superior region. Museum exhibits, audio-visual programs and outdoor interpretive paths depict the largescale capital and human investment that made Michigan an industrial leader. The museum is one of 10 museums and historic sites administered by the Michigan Historical Center. Closed through the 22nd for building updates. michigan.gov/mhc/ museums/miim.
Marquette Regional History Center | Marquette
Photo by Carrie Usher
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.
Negaunee
• “Come Write In” Writing Session. Aspiring authors can bring their laptop or use a public computer to write in a peaceful environment. Librarians will be available to help with research and refreshments will be provided. 10 a.m. to noon. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-4757700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
16 SATURDAY
sunrise 7:53 a.m.; sunset 5:16 p.m.
Calumet
• Used Book Sale. The sale will feature a variety of books, CDs, and DVDs. Proceeds will support the Friends of the Calumet Public Library. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Room, Calumet Public Library.
• Old-Fashioned Christmas Bazaar. Shop for baked goods, jewelry, Christmas decor, crafts and more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gym. Calumet High School, 57070 Mine St.
Escanaba
• Great Start Family Coalition Storytime. Intended for children up to age eight and their families. 10:30 a.m. Escanaba Public Library, 400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Hancock
• Buellwood Weavers and Fiber Arts Guild Meeting. All fiber artists are welcome. Bring your show-andtell projects. 1 p.m. Fiber Arts Studio (Room 105), Finnish American Folk School, lower level, Skyline Commons, 200 Michigan St. jegale@att.net or 906-221-5306.
Houghton
• “The Glass Menagerie.” This largely autobiographical play by Tennessee Williams tells the story of his family’s struggle to find their place in an ever-changing world. Pay As You’re Able ticketing. 7:30 p.m. McArdle Theatre, MTU. mtu.universitytickets. com.
Ishpeming
• 25 Cent Clothing Resale. Gently used clothes, winter wear, outerwear and footwear will be available for purchase. Proceeds benefit NICE Child and Family Resource Center programming. 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cafeteria, Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178.
Marquette
• Annual Bazaar. The event will feature a rummage sale, luncheon, bake sale and a variety of vendors. Hosted by the St. Louis the King Women’s Club. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Louis the King Catholic Church, 264 Silver Creek Rd., Harvey. sltkwomensclub@gmail.com.
• 24th Annual Holiday Art Sale. Holiday shoppers can enjoy worldclass exhibits and juried artwork from local artists. There will also be an old-fashioned bake sale, the annual Dollhouse Days and a membership drive, and the History Center’s gift shop will be open. Co-hosted with the City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center. $2. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring St. 906-226-3571 or mrhc@marquettehistory.org.
• Farm Stands. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St. mqtfarmersmarket.com.
• Holistc Health Fair. Explore various holistic offerings, including massage therapy, assessments and information, energy work, handcrafted products, tarot and oracle card readings, mental health therapy with dogs and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Northern Center, NMU. mqtholistichealthfair.com.
• Superiorland Duplicate Bridge Club. Games open to all interested players. $5 for games. Lessons, 10 a.m. Games, 11:30 a.m. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. superiorland_bridge.tripod.com.
• 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.
• Repair Café. In partnership with the Marquette Sustainability Coalition, residents can bring in broken household goods such as appliances, clothing or bikes, and skilled fixers will assist in repairing them. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4303 or mqtsustainability@ gmail.com.
Negaunee
• Pokémon Club. Youth ages seven and older can play Pokémon card games, discuss their favorite Pokémon, trade cards, make friends and have fun. 10 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
17 SUNDAY
sunrise 7:55 a.m.; sunset 5:15 p.m.
bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
Rock
• Hunter’s Breakfast. This all-youcan-eat breakfast buffet is presented by the Rock Lions, a non-profit service group that provides funding for charitable organizations and local needs. Children five and younger, free; ages six to 12, $9; adults, $12. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rock Lions Club, 14454 M-35.
18 MONDAY
sunrise 7:56 a.m.; sunset 5:14 p.m.
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: Getting Down and Dirty with your Septic Tank. Tanya Rule and Sara Heathman of the Onsite Wastewater Management Unit of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and John Forslin of Climate Reality Project will discuss EGLE’s mission as a state agency and answer questions. An EGLE video titled “Knowing Your Septic System” will be shown. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 6:30 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906361-1919 or ncll@nmu.edu.
• The Joy of Sound Meditation. This meditation uses the sounds produced by bronze singing bowls and metallic gongs. 7 p.m. Chapel, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 E. Ridge St. 906-362-9934 or ckitchenmqt@gmail. com.
• Yvonne Osborne Reading. Novelist Yvonne Osborne will read from her recently released book, “Let Evening Come,” a love story between the son of an Indigenous family displaced from their ancestral home on the Tar Sands of Canada and a motherless farm girl from Michigan. Co-hosted by Snowbound Books. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
Negaunee
• All-Ages Online Storytime. Miss Jessica will lead stories, songs and rhymes on Facebook Live. 11 a.m. facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
400 Ludington St. 906-789-7323 or escanabalibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Tot Tuesday Storytime. Stories, songs and movement activities followed by an optional craft and playtime will be offered for toddlers and preschoolers. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
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 passwords with you. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• Matter of Balance. This free eight-week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Noon. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, call 906-228-0456.
• 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.
• Dungeons and Dragons. Jordan from Iron Golem Games and local dungeon masters will lead groups of teens in Grades six to 12 on a quest with this role-playing game. Registration required. 4 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4321, apierce@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Jr. Explorers. Intended for curious kids in kindergarten through second grade who like fun facts and learning about animals. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4323 or pwpl.info.
Ishpeming
• Bingo. Doors open at noon. Ishpeming VFW, 310 Bank St. 906-486-4856.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early
19 TUESDAY sunrise 7:57 a.m.; sunset 5:13 p.m.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Escanaba Public Library,
• NMU Open Mind Ensemble Concert. 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Recital Hall, NMU. nmu.edu/music.
20 WEDNESDAY
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Planning Ahead Lunch and Learn. This educational presentation will explore the importance of planning ahead with an advance directive, funeral planning and hospice care, ensuring that final wishes are respected and loved ones are not left with difficult decisions. 11 a.m. Ishpeming Senior Center, 121 Greenwood St. To register, call 906-485-5527.
• Writing Session. Writers can bring their own laptop or writing tools and write in the library’s quiet space. 4 to 5:30 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Adult Horror Book Club. This month’s nonfiction selection will be “The Last House on Needless Street” by Catriona Ward. 6 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary. info.
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.
• Senior Visual Art Classes: Natural Object Art with Marlene Wood. 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.
• Live and Learn: Memory Journaling. Attendees can capture memories and share their life experiences in journal form, which can be a gift for loved ones and for future generations. Journal materials will be provided. 2 p.m. 1728 Windstone Dr. 906-225-7760.
• NCLL: Liquid Freedom. Kayaker Dean Juntunen, a T7/8 complete paraplegic from the Western U.P., will share his 20-year journey circumnavigating Lake Superior, blending passions for kayaking and photography. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. 4 p.m. Shiras Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 248-767-5973 or lzbinns@yahoo.com.
• Outword. LGBTQIA+ youth and ally students in Grades seven to 12 are welcome. 4 p.m. Peter White Public
Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-2264321, apierce@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• Fandom Fun: Zen. Youth of all ages can embrace mindfulness and relaxation with animal yoga, zen garden sensory bins and creating a calming jar. 4:30 p.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Marquette County Genealogical Society Meeting. The program will be “Hunting for Your Dear Elusive Ancestors.” The Lake Superior Roots newsletter will be distributed to all members. Visitors and guests are welcome. 6 p.m. Family Search Center, 350 Cherry Creek Rd., Harvey. lakesuperiorroots.org or marquettecountymigeniesociety@gmail.com.
• Stories and Songs: A Concert. Troy Graham and his musical friends will perform a concert of songs, stories and thanks. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322, machatz@ pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• La Table Française. This informal conversation group will discuss various topics in French. Intended for all levels of speakers and listeners. 7 p.m. Room 2603, C.B. Hedgcock Building, NMU. 906-227-2648 or nkupper@nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• 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.
• After-school Youth Hangout. Tweens and teens can relax in the
will discuss “The Lost Library” by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass. 5 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Downtown Day Out. Attendees can purchase the event passport and enjoy promotions and giveaways at more than 70 participating businesses. Ladies Night Out will run from 4 to 8 p.m. Passport proceeds will be donated to the Women’s Center. All day. Downtown Marquette. downtownmarquette.org.
• NCLL: Manistique Day Trip. Bristol Snider, owner of Mustard Seed, will host a tasting of gourmet coffee, tea and olive oils as well as discuss her line of beauty products. Chistine Worley, owner of Lake Effect Arts, will share the story of managing the all-volunteer art facility. NCLL members, $5; non-members, $10. To carpool, meet at 9 a.m. at Lofaro’s Market, 101 Carmen Dr., Harvey. 248-464-3828 or bevans@nmu.edu.
library and enjoy snacks. This month will focus on writing with writing prompts, story help and open mic sessions. 3 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18.
21 THURSDAY
sunrise 8:00 a.m.; sunset 5:11 p.m.
Calumet
• Preschool Story Time. 10:15 a.m. Calumet Public Library, 57070 Mine St. 906-337-0311, ext. 1107. clklibrary. org.
• Knitting and Crochet 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. clklibrary.org.
Ishpeming
• Crochet Club. This is a time to gather with fellow crafters to socialize. Supplies and instruction will be provided for those who are interested in learning how to crochet. 2 p.m. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906-486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
• Graphic Novel Book Club. Students in fourth through eighth grade can enjoy snacks and a book discussion. 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
• Tech Coaching for Seniors. Learn how to make your electronic devices work with the help of retired teacher and librarian Christine Ault. Ensure your device is charged and bring passwords with you. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Heritage Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. To register for a 30-minute session, 906-226-4311.
• 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.
Negaunee
• Music, Movement and More. Children of all ages and their caregivers are welcome to attend this parent-led storytime. 10:30 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
• Sensory Playtime. This one-hour drop-in play session is designed to stimulate a child’s senses and foster cognitive development through fallthemed 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.
Photo courtesy of Rosemary Larson
Learning To Walk Together Traditional Pow Wow | Nov. 23 | Marquette
22 FRIDAY
Ishpeming
• Homeschool Hangout. Homeschooling families can visit with fellow homeschooling friends, network with library staff and learn about the library’s resources. This week will feature a presentation and discussion about recycling with 906 Recycle. 10 a.m. to noon. Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities will be offered for preschool-age children and a loving adult. Siblings are welcome. 10 a.m. Great Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906226-4323 or pwpl.info.
• Block Busting Cinema: Lordy, Lordy, Look Who’s 40—“A Christmas Story.” Join Ralphie Parker in his quest for the greatest Christmas present of all time: a Red Ryder carbine-action, 200-shot range model air rifle. Rated PG. Noon. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322.
• 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.
• Senior Ice Skating. Free and open to ages 55 and older. No pre-registration required. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Lakeview Arena, 401 E. Fair Ave.906-228-0456.
Negaunee
• “Come Write In” Writing Session. Aspiring authors can bring their laptop or use a public computer to write in a peaceful environment. Librarians will be available to help with research and refreshments will be provided. 10 a.m. to noon. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-4757700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/ NegauneePublicLibrary.
23 SATURDAY
sunrise 8:03 a.m.; sunset 5:09 p.m.
• Thanksgiving Market. 10 a.m. to 3 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. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring 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.
• Learning to Walk Together Traditional Pow Wow. The pow wow begins with the Grand Entry and the Flag Song followed by Veterans’ Honor Song. The Emcee will provide information on traditional dances and social dances. Artisan and vendors booths will be available. Grand entries, 1 and 7 p.m. Feast, 5 p.m. Grand Ballroom, Northern Center, NMU. 906-2271397or nmu.edu.
Negaunee
• Pokémon Club. Youth ages seven and older can play Pokémon card games, discuss their favorite Pokémon, trade cards, make friends and have fun. 10 a.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
24 SUNDAY sunrise 8:04 a.m.; sunset 5:08 p.m.
Little Lake
• Bingo. A concession stand will be available. Doors open, 11 a.m.; early bird games, 1:30 p.m. American Legion Post 349, 1835 E. M-35. 906-346-6000.
25 MONDAY
sunrise 8:05 a.m.; sunset 5:08 p.m.
Marquette
• Matter of Balance. This free eight-week program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Noon. Marquette Senior Center, 300 W. Spring St. To register, call 906-228-0456.
• 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.
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. 906486-4381 or ishpeminglibrary.info.
Marquette
• All Booked Up: Can We Talk? Library staff will host an in-person discussion of “Upper Michigan Today’s” All Booked Up book of the month, “The Wandering Stars” by Tommy Orange. 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 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.
• Bluesday Tuesday Concert. Sponsored by the Marquette Area Blues Society. 6:30 p.m. Community Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4322.
• Evening of Thanks Service. The Marquette Interfaith Forum will host a brief service with officiants from various faith traditions followed by fellowship. All are welcome regardless of affiliation. 7 p.m. Marquette Hope Connection Center, 927 W. Fair Ave. 906-273-0026 or davidarnoldmqt@ gmail.com.
27 WEDNESDAY
p.m. Community room, Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 319 N. Main St. 906-486-4381.
Marquette
• Adult Nonfiction Book Group. This month’s selection will be “The Glass Universe” by Dava Sobel. 2 p.m. Conference Room, Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. 906-226-4311.
Negaunee
• All Booked Up: On Air. Elizabeth Peterson and Tia Trudgeon, of WLUC TV6’s “Upper Michigan Today,” along with Peter White Public Library staff, will host an on-air, in-person book discussion of “The Wandering Stars” by Tommy Orange. 9 a.m. WLUC-TV6 Studio, 177 US-41 E. 906-226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info or pwpl.info.
• 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.
• “Come Write In” Writing Session. Aspiring authors can bring their laptop or use a public computer to write in a peaceful environment. Librarians will be available to help with research and refreshments will be provided. 4 to 7 p.m. Negaunee Public Library, 319 W. Case St. 906-475-7700, ext. 18 or facebook.com/NegauneePublicLibrary.
28 THURSDAY sunrise 8:09 a.m.; sunset 5:06 p.m.
Thanksgiving
Hancock
• Turkey Trot. Participants will meet at the front lobby of U.P. Health System–Portage to register. Snacks and refreshments will be available following the race. 9 a.m. UP Health System – Portage, 500 Campus Dr. eventbrite. com.
Marquette
• Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock. Local history will merge with modern technology in a laser light display on the north side of the iconic Lower Harbor ore dock. Presented by Travel Marquette. 6 p.m. Marquette Lower Harbor. 906-228-7749 or travelmarquette.com.
29 FRIDAY sunrise 8:11 a.m.; sunset 5:05 p.m.
Marquette
• Global Fair Trade Market. Featuring Christmas decorations, jewelry textiles, ornaments, coffee, chocolate and unique gifts from Guatemala, Colombia, Peru, Tanzania and Haiti. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Atrium, Messiah Lutheran Church, 305 W. Magnetic St.
26 TUESDAY sunrise 8:07 a.m.; sunset 5:07 p.m.
Escanaba
• Tech Tuesday. Appointments or walk-ins are welcome. 11 a.m. to
Ishpeming
• Aspen Ridge Playgroup. Children and their caregivers can enjoy free play, circle time, crafts and activities, and snacks. 10 a.m. Aspen Ridge School, 350 Aspen Ridge School Rd. 906-485-3178, ext. 1104 or 1105.
• Popcorn and a Movie for Adults. The 2024 film “The Fall Guy” (Rated PG-13) will be screened for adults. Free popcorn will be provided. 4:30
Curtis
• Curtis Aglow Parade. Following the parade, visitors can enjoy hot chocolate and a visit with Santa Claus at the Erickson Center for the Arts, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. Parade begins at dusk.
Gladstone
• Old Fashioned Christmas. Visit downtown for the annual tree lighting, followed by activities and treats at downtown businesses. 5:30 to 8 p.m deltami.org.
Marquette
• Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock. Local history will merge with modern technology in a laser light display on the north side of the iconic Lower Harbor ore dock. 6 p.m. Marquette Lower Harbor. 906-228-7749.
30 SATURDAY
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
Caspian
• Shop Small Saturday and Craft Fair. Holiday shoppers can find unique gifts from local crafters as well as the museum gift shop and purchase basket raffle tickets. There will also be seasonal music, refreshments and dozens of decorated Christmas trees. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cultural Center, Iron County Museum, 100 Brady Ave. 906-2652617 or ironcountymuseum.org.
Curtis
• Holiday Gala “Deck the Walls!” Fundraising Event. This silent auction fundraiser will feature handcrafted holiday decor and gifts, a cash bar and
appetizers. In advance, $20; at the door, $25. 5 to 8 p.m. Upper level, Erickson Center for the Arts, N9224 Saw-Wa-Quato St. 906-586-9974 or MyNorthTickets.com.
Gwinn
• Christmas Craft Show. Crafts, baked goods and concessions will be available for purchase. Hosted by the St. Anthony’s Youth Group. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Anthony’s Church, 280 Boulder St.
Houghton
• Home for the Holidays: Annual Gift Market. This unique holiday gift market will feature high-quality,
handcrafted items. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lobby, Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, MTU. events.mtu.edu.
Lake Linden
• Craft and Food Bazaar. Local vendors will sell a variety goods and foods. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. St. Joseph Church, 701 Calumet St. 906-790-7798.
Marquette
• Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock. Local history will merge with modern technology in a laser light display on the north side of the iconic Lower Harbor ore dock. 6 p.m. Marquette Lower Harbor. 906-228-7749. MM
checks are $5. Call for Marquette County schedule. 906-225-4545.
• Caregiver Support Group (Phonebased). Caregivers can share their feelings, develop friendships and learn about available community resources from their own home via phone. Nov. 19. 2 p.m. To register, call 906-485-5527.
• Caregiver Support Group— Marquette. Family, friends and others who are caring for a person with a chronic illness or disability can share their feelings, develop friendships and learn about available community resources. Nov. 13. 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. Nov. 13. 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. Nov. 20. 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. Nov. 11 and 21 (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. Nov. 7 (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. Nov. 20. 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—Marquette (Zoom). Mondays. Noon. Via Zoom. smartrecovery.org.
• Take Off Pounds Sensibly. This is a non-commercial weight-control support group. Various places and times throughout the U.P. 800-932-8677 or TOPS.org.
• Virtual Caregiver Support Group. U.P. family caregivers are welcome to join. A device with an internet connection, webcam, microphone and an email address are 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
