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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

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IN FINE COMPANY--Jim
Knight checks in on, l-r, Bertha Rantanen, Ethyl LeClaire and
David Goulet in the dining room at Bayside Village. Knight has
served as administrator since July, and seen improvements in both
the budget and facility. |
Bayside
administrator charts new course
Jim Knight, a former
USAF navigator and now administrator of Bayside Village in L’Anse, is
enjoying the challenges and rewards of steering the facility into its
future.
On board since July, Knight brings a diverse yet relevant
background to the job. A bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan
University in 1981 was followed up by a master’s in administrative
services from Northern Michigan University, with five years of military
service in between.
“I had two majors, in sociology and political science,” Knight
said. “Because those majors weren’t terribly useful, I went into the Air
Force out of college, into Officer’s Training School, and became a
second lieutenant.”
BHK Foundation
to award scholarships
The BHK Foundation
is accepting applications for three $500 scholarships from area high
school seniors who attended BHK Child Development Board early childhood
programs.
The scholarships may be used to cover any expenses related to
post-secondary education, including tuition, room, board, books,
supplies and other expenses at colleges, universities and trade schools.
“Post-secondary education is a key ingredient to success in the
21st century,” said Ken Dillinger, Foundation President. “By offering
these scholarships, the BHK Foundation hopes to help some of our local
youth achieve that success.”
Gallery 325
presents 'The Crow Moon'
A new art exhibit
opens at Gallery 325 in Baraga, with a special reception on Friday, Feb.
26, 2010. Titled “The Crow Moon”, the show has a Native American theme.
The reception takes place Friday from 7-9 p.m. at the gallery at
315 McGillan Street.
Refreshments will be served. Gallery hours are Wednesdays from noon
to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, or by appointment. For
more information contact Karen at 355-2578 or visit
www.gallery325.org
Giudicelli
earns honors
Anthony Giudicelli
has been named to the Dean’s List in the Indiana University College of
Arts and Sciences for the Fall Semester of 2009, in recognition of
outstanding academic achievement.
Eligibility for the Dean’s List is reserved for those students who
complete at least 12 graded credit hours in a single semester, earning
at least a 3.700 GPA.
Reception at
gallery
The Finlandia
University Reflection Gallery will host an exhibit of color reduction
relief prints by Tom Rudd and Margo McCafferty, March 3 to 29, 2010.
An opening reception and artist talk will take place
Thursday, March 4, 12:15 to 1 p.m., at the Reflection Gallery. The
reception is open to the public and refreshments will be served.
Rudd and McCafferty will also conduct a greeting card printmaking
workshop on March 20, 2010, 1 to 5 p.m., at Finlandia’s Jutila Center
campus.
Pamida donates
Pamida customers and
employees have opened their hearts and wallets to generate $78,926 for
American Red Cross Haiti relief efforts.
The donations were raised during a recent in-store fundraiser that
offered shoppers and employees the opportunity to “round up” their
purchase totals to the next whole dollar. Participants could also
contribute to the fund with a dollar amount of their choice.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Shelter needs
help to fetch $10,000 grant
Copper Country
residents have a chance to help the Copper Country Humane Society (CCHS)
win a $10,000 grant, and possibly more, by simply logging on to a
website.
According to CCHS volunteer LeRita Allert, the popular website
petfinder.com, along with the Animal Rescue Site $100,000 Shelter +
Challenge is running the campaign open to animal shelters nationwide and
Canada.
Voting is simple and can be done once daily. Those wishing to
participate should go the CCHS website–
www.cchumanesociety.com
Once you reach the main page, look for the link in the upper lefthand
corner. Click that link and follow the short instructions which include
typing the shelter’s name in the form.

|
SPECIAL DELIVERY--First
grader Sami Heikkinen and kindergartener T’Pina Rasch enjoy
creating Valentine’s Day surprises. Arvon School students
celebrated the holiday with a card exchange, games and by making
fruit pizza. Parents contributed by sending in goody bags and
healthy treats for the students to share with their friends.
|
SHS list honors
Sacred Heart School
has announced its honor roll students for the second quarter.
Fourth grade: Erika Tollefson.
Fifth grade: Victoria Francois and Carrie Schwartz.
Sixth grade: Jacob Freeman and Emily Magaraggia.
NMU announces
grads
Northern Michigan
University announced its graduates. The following students from this
area satisfied their degree requirements in December, 2009.
Darrel Cladas of Pelkie earned an associate degree as a Clinical
Laboratory Technician.
Earning baccalaureate degrees were John Varline, Baraga, Criminal
Justice; Daniel Cavanaugh, L’Anse, Biology/ Physiology, Magna Cum Laude;
Jarod Kent, L’Anse, Psychology; Karen Cladas, Pelkie, Biology.
BHS students
earn high marks
Baraga High School has
released its 2009-2010 first semester honor roll. Names with an
asterisk* denote all A’s.
Grade 12: Ashley Angle*, Erica Bedner, Nathan Eilola, Rebecca
Ellenich, Serena Goodreau, Ariel Gougeon, Tanya Held, Ellyn Hurst,
Brian Johnson, Michael Jones, John Jukkala, Kristin Koski, Paige
Maskill, Jessica Messer, Rebecca Rasanen, James Reynolds, Matthew
Santti, Kelly Shanahan, Kaitlin Tikkanen and Brad Wadaga.
Grade 11: Tashina Emery-Kauppila, Bryant Froberg, Andrea Heikkinen,
Nicole Keranen, Terrence Mackey, Gina Magaraggia, Brianna Poehls,
Zachary Sauvola, Megan Turunen, Deanna Velmer and Dollcie Webb.
Grade 10: Daniel Alexander, Richard Alexander, Bethanne Cadeau,
Savannah Dakota*, Dylan Hemmila, Dustin Juntunen, Gabriel Mackey,
Hunter Maki, Otis Malmgren, Alexandria Mayo, Raymond Niemi, Briar
Nieskes, Jana Parkila, Corey Pietila, Rachel Sutherland, Alisha
Tilson and Joshua Turunen.
|
Grade 9: Nadine Barry, Ethan
Botruff, Brooke Chaudier, Miranda Coppler, Mariah Fish, Shannon
Fish*, Alex Gabe, Olivia Ingram*, Jon Kaster, Joann LaBeau, Tara
LaFernier, Rebecca Larson, Dustin Lindemann, Taylor Lindemann,
William Mayo, Heather Mensch, Brittany Nieskes, Taryn Nurmela*,
Katie Schjoth, Virginia Shelifoe, Taylor Tervo, Brittany Tikkanen,
Paige Webb and Christine Wilson*.
Grade 8: Kelly Bedner, Frederick Dakota, Shawn Diederich, Jenna
Heikkinen, Jaclyn Jahfetson, Amber Kamarainen, Mackenzie Keefer,
Winter Keefer, Harley Lindemann and Taylor Swanson.
Grade 7: Audrey Barrett, Corbin Crittenden, Tessa Gilbertson,
Elizabeth Keinath, Bronz LeRue, Kelli Massie, Gabrielle Mayo,
Shayla Mayo, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo, Michael Turunen,
Jaclyn Wadaga and Sonja Welch*. |
Backyard
beekeeping workshops to be held
Ontonagon County MSU
Extension is teaming up with Les McBean owner of White Birch Apiary in
Bruce Crossing to offer two Backyard Beekeeping Workshops.
The Beginning workshop will be held on Saturday, March 13, 2010, at
the Ewen-Trout Creek School from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.
McBean will focus on a year in the life of a beekeeper and will
cover what equipment is needed to get started, kinds of equipment easily
made at home, inspecting your colonies and how to recognize a
queen-right colony, a laying worker or queenless colony.
UPPCO to
distribute duck homes
Upper Peninsula
Power Company (UPPCO) is partnering with Ducks Unlimited to hold a wood
duck house distribution event in Houghton on Friday, Feb. 26, 2010. For
a $10 donation, you will receive a wood duck house, instructions for
use, and a one-year DU Green Wing membership for any youth up to 18
years old. The houses have a retail value of over $30.
UPPCO is joining its sister utility, Wisconsin Public Service
Corporation (WPSC), in offering the houses this year. For many years,
WPSC has worked with the McNaughton Correctional Facility in northern
Wisconsin, which produces and assembles the wood duck houses. This year,
in its pilot event, UPPCO will have 35 wood duck houses to distribute in
the Houghton area.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010

|
SHS students Lila
Morningstar, Carrie Schwartz, Victoria Francois, Jessica Velmer
and Jacob Freeman anxiously await the start of the first of three
tie-breaker rounds at the 2010 Diocese of Marquette Catholic
Schools Religion Bee held in Escanaba on Feb. 3, 2010. In the
background, Heather Anderson, a teacher at Fr. Marquette Middle
School and judge for the religion bee, explains to teams competing
the rules for the tie-breaking rounds. Sacred Heart School placed
third in its first appearance at the event. Eleven other teams
competed from Catholic Schools around the UP, answering questions
about the Bible, Mass, saints, and Catholic religion. |
NMU releases
semester honors
Northern Michigan
University announces the Dean’s List for the Fall 2009 semester.
Qualifying with a grade point average of 4.00:
Baraga students: Kelley Artley and John Varline.
L’Anse students include: Matthew Cowling, Danielle Vizina and Jarod
Kent.
The following students qualified with a grade point average of
3.25-3.99.
Baraga students: Jessica Deziel, Hillary Froberg and Richard
Knisely.
L’Anse students: Daniel Cavanaugh, Robert Cowling, Chelsey Gilbert,
Jessica Walitalo, Lisa Bennett, Megan Bennett, Tyler Delene, Tanya
Kayramo, Nickolas Lincoln and Emily Schwartz.
Pelkie student: Jordan Spencer.
Watton students: Samuel Besonen and Melvin LaFernier.
PLES announces
honors for second term 2009-10
Philip LaTendresse
Elementary School announces its term two honor roll. Names with an
asterisk* indicate all A’s.
Grade four: Preston Ellsworth, Harlee Froberg, Raymond Gauthier-Tolonen,
Stephanie Hadden, Jenna Isaacson, Cooper Koskinen, Sofia Kyllonen,
JeriAnn Lanala-Tervo, Gunnar Lindemann, Kirsten Nelson, McKenzie
Barrett, Bryce Crawford, Hannah Haataja, Alexandra Jahfetson,
Kooper Jahfetson, Colton Lindemann, Hailey Lindemann, Chelsea
Pittsley and Zachary Welch.
Grade five: Coleson Bratt, Alan DesRochers, Kara Hazen, Adam
Irwin, Kollin Kangas, Ashtin Lindemann, Nicole Maki, Kerstyn
Nurmela, Carsyn Osterman, Christopher Schjoth, |
Nicholas Turpeinen, Sydni
Voakes, Casey Chagnon, David DesRochers, Tyler Fish, Bailey
Froberg, Chase Holmquist, Thad Isaacson, Megan Kinnunen, Kyle
Lake, Lyndsey Mayo, Darla Mensch, Adebria Miron, Rian Turunen,
Wyatte Walitalo and Nathaniel Welsh.
Grade six: Madison Clisch, Anna Isaacson, Samantha Jahfetson,
Cortney Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little, Clayton Luther, Keisha McHenry,
Nathan Miron, Austin Smith, Brendan Varline, Brittany Brown,
Austin Domitrovich, Anna Fredrickson, Ireland Ingram, Natasha
Kaster, Courtney Mayo, Annaleese Rasanen*, Bryce Retaskie, Teal
Sackett and Josh Sutherland. |
Poehls on
Dean's list at Lake Superior State
Lake Superior State
University announces the Dean’s List for the Fall 2009 semester.
To make the Dean’s List, students must achieve a 3.5 grade point
average for the semester on a 4.0 scale.
One student from this area was announced: Ashley Poehls, L’Anse,
Biology freshman.,
Finlandia
University first alumni exhibit
The Finlandia
University International School of Art & Design (ISAD) will present its
first alumni exhibit at the Finlandia University Gallery, located in the
Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock, from Feb. 18 to March 24,
2010.
An opening reception for the artists will take place at the gallery
from 7-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18. An artist talk will begin at 7:15
p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be
served.
Portage library
to host events
The Portage Lake
District Library will host two special events.
On Saturday, Feb. 13, from 1– 3 p.m., Friends of the Portage Lake
District Library will host an English Tea with classical harp musician
John Manno performing during the event.
The Friends will present the new Children’s Listening Center that
was created with funds that were raised through its Music for Media
events. Up to four children at a time will now be able to listen to a
variety of audio books, music, and foreign language CDs during their
visits to the library.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010

|
LIFESAVERS--Christina
Layle and Garrick Lamb, who are training to become EMT Basics,
demonstrate the use of an automatic external defibrillator (AED)
AED at Bay Ambulance in Baraga. Lamb applies the pads that read
the victim’s heartbeat, then administer a lifesaving shock. AED’s
are located in several public areas locally. |
Working man's
guide to learning AED's
Last week’s L’Anse
Sentinel featured a story about two area policemen, Matt
Gagnier and Robert Carter, who saved a man’s life with an automatic
external defibrillator (AED). The man had suffered a heart attack at a
lounge in Baraga last year.
Placed in the same situation, what would you do?
If your answer is “Call a cop!”, well, they can’t always get there in
time. Try again, this time with help from members of the Bay Ambulance
Service in Baraga.
AED’s are becoming increasingly available in public places. It
behooves us to know how to use one. Heart attacks are a leading cause of
death in the U.S. They strike without warning and can kill within
minutes.
Community
Schools unfurl honor rolls
The L’Anse- Baraga
Community Schools announces its second quarter 2009/10 Alternative
Education honor roll. Included are Melanie Durant, Jacqueline Jossens,
Dillon Kilpela, Edward LeRue and Seth Maki.
Also its second quarter 2009/10 Adult Education honor roll.
Included on the honor roll are Stephen Bates, Peggy Cadeau, Sondra
Chapman, Shanda Frank, Vanessa Hasting, Erin McMahon, Jordan Pyykkonen
and Lisa Vokoviak.
Free tax
assistance offered in Houghton
With the tax season
getting underway, volunteers are gearing up to provide free income tax
assistance and preparation through the AARP Tax Aide Program. Tax
assistance will be available at the Portage Lake District Library,
Houghton.
Tax Aide, a free tax preparation service for seniors and low to
moderate income families and individuals, is supported by trained
volunteers serving as Certified Tax Aide Counselors. Services offered by
the Tax Aide Program include the completion and electronic filing of
forms:
Wednesday, January 27, 2010

| FAMILIAR FACE--Julie
Froberg, loan officer at the L’Anse office, will fill the L’Anse
SNB Branch Manager’s position. She has worked in banking since
1992. |
Froberg new
manager at L'Anse SNB Branch
Superior National Bank & Trust
announces that Julie Froberg, Assistant Vice President, will fill the
L’Anse Branch Manager’s position. Currently, Froberg is a loan officer
in the L’Anse office.
Froberg began her banking career with then, Houghton National Bank in
1992. In 1997, Froberg was promoted to Personal Banker/Branch Manager
and worked in that capacity until 2002 when she was hired by Superior
National Bank & Trust to work in loan collections.
GCC honors
students
Gogebic Community
College has issued a list of names of full time (12 or more credits)
students who received honors for the first semester of the 2009-10
academic year by achieving a 4.0 (all A’s) or Deans List Honors (3.5 to
3.9 grade point average our of a possible 4.0).
Honor students from this area include: Trudy Duquette, Baraga;
Cynthia MacKenzie, Covington; Laura Kiefer, L’Anse; Stacey Rolof,
L’Anse; Elizabeth White, L’Anse; Carolyn Kraker, Pelkie; Bonny
Walendowski, Pelkie; and Camille Sliger of Watton.
MTU honors
students
Michigan
Technological University has released the Dean’s List for the fall 2009
semester, recognizing students who achieve grade point averages of 3.5
or higher. Those earning straight A averages of 4.0 are indicated by
asterisks*.
Honor students from this area include:
Baraga: Anne Aho*, Senior, Social Sciences; Gerald Jondreau*,
Junior, Forestry; Melanie Lemerande, Sophomore, App. Ecol. & Environ.
Science; Joshua Mayo, Senior, Sound Design and Joseph Turpeinen*,
Senior, Construction Management.
L’Anse: Scott Kemppainen*, Freshman, Chemical Engineering; Lacey
Lane, Freshman, Biological Sciences; Hilary Cadeau*, Junior,
Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Alexander Hirzel, Junior, Electrical
Engineering; Matt Koski*, Senior, Civil Engineering; and Jacqueline
Walitalo, Junior, Chemical Engineering.
Pelkie: John Cladas, Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering; Mark
Panasiewicz, Junior, Psychology; Maija Stenvig, Senior, Exercise
Science; Shaun Sullivan, Senior, Forestry and Melissa Velmer*, Freshman,
Biological Sciences.
CJ announces
scholars
CJ Sullivan Elementary
School announces its second marking period honor roll. Names with
an asterisk* indicate all A’s.
Grade 4: Kassidy Adams, Anikin Anderson, Joel Apger, Tyler Ballor,
Steven Beauprey, Taylor Brown, Justin Cichosz, Jonathan Cote,
Daniel Curtis, Haley Denomie, Sarah Dix *, Gregory Dowd, Brendan
Everson, Reeyce Fish, Joseph Francios, Lindsey Frank, Caleb
Hansen, David Harju, Caleb Hiltunen *, Nicholas Hochstein, Bradley
Justice, Cara Kent, Randall Laitila, Kelsey Lindstrom, Kazie Lupro,
Eric Maki, Megan Maki, Samantha Peltola, Anna Pietila, Kassidy
Pirkola, Zachary Sanregret, Sean Selden, Taylor Shaffer, Martin
Shamion, |
Dorian Summers, Caleb
Sweeney, Carter Tollefson, Stella Tortolini, Ross Treadeau and
Nathaniel Vervisch.
Grade 5: Aaron Altz, Nicholas Carter, Aaron Collins, Ricky Davis,
Canyon Delene, Ryan Delene, Shay Ekdahl, Brian Fedie, Lauren Gabe,
Laura Gransell, Dylan Grentz, Winter Haataja, Christopher Harden,
Dylan Harden, Dana Hiltunen, Grace Hoskins, Samantha Johnson,
Katlyn King, Justice Kinnunen, Maegan Kraft, Michael Lytikainen,
Caitlyn Menge, Lucas Ollila, David Olson, Emma Ostermeyer, Samuel
Pyykkonen, Grayson Roe, Lauryn Schneider, Caleb Scroggs, Chase
Sullivan, Brandt Tembreull, Brook Thomas and Brianna Warnke. |
LHS releases
2nd term honor roll
L’Anse High School announced
its term two honor roll. Names with an *asterisk indicate a 4.0.
Included are:
Seniors: Dennis Anderson, Daniel Brunet, *Cody Carter, Dylan
Cassel, Gregor Cerne, Wesley Curtis, *Jordan Dix, *Cassandra
Evans, Joseph Fedie, Mitch Fedie, Christian Gagnon, Isaac Hiltunen,
Jason Hulkonen, Joshua Johnson, Devinne Kent, Kylee Kristo, Sean
Lincoln, Lara Lindlbauer, Samantha Nagele, Patrick Osterman,
Robert Ostrout, Justin Reilley, Dylan Seavoy, Daniel Sterbenz,
Tyler Sterbenz, Samantha Tollefson, Cassandra Wesner, and Michael
A Williams.
Juniors: Gerald Archambeau, *Rebecca Augustine, Alex Beeler, David
Bier, Carli Chaudier, Katelyn Darcy, *Brooke Davis, Nicole Delene,
Cody Dingeldey, Jacqueline Dove, Breanne Fish, *Sarah Hansen, Jake
Jaeger, Aleah Kissel, *Paige Koskinen, Jessica Lawson, Samantha
Lloyd, Christopher Mayo, Nicholas Mayo, *Tara Meleen, *Rebecca
Mills, Laney Minerick, Stacy Motley, Michael Olsen, Misty Owens,
Nicole Parker, Joseph Richard, Jacob Schwartz, Alycia Seratti,
Casey Sliger, *Jaclyn Sliger, Travis Tollefson, Joshua Truesdell,
Kristopher Turunen, Daniel Walbridge, and Steven Witz.
|
Sophomores: Sierra Ayres,
Bridgette Bouchard, Acacia Copley, Cassandra Dix, Klaire Fedie,
Scott Gerzetich, Joslyn Hatfield, Carter Hendricks, *Melody Hirzel,
Dean Johnson, Samantha Juntunen, Brittney Kemppainen, Samantha
Koski, Mckenna Lane, Miles Loosemore, Nathan Loosemore, Claire
Mackenzie, *Jessica Makela, Sarah Mars, Hope Minton, Deena Marie
Misegan, Jessica Nagele, Jordan Newland, Amanda Rantala, Stephanie
Raymond, Sean Rexford, Cynthia Robacker, John Smith, Autumn
Swanson, Emma Tembreull, Derek Treadeau, *Alex Vanwagner, Andrew
Vassallo, Dillon Velmer, Anthony Wakeham, Ashley Walbridge, and
Molly Wilder
Freshmen: Charles Beer, Samantha Cangemi, Jordan Collins, Amanda
Dufek, Zachary Evans, Gregory Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy, Mercie
Hackeman, Joey Hansen, Alexandra Hatfield, Jacob Hiltunen, Rebecca
Hulkonen, Brianna Koski, Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson, Brianna
Magnant, Rachel Maurer, Brianna Mayo, *Heather McCarthy, Derek
Meleen, Alexis Reilley, Jeffery Roth, Mary Schwartz, Brianna
Steinberg, Ryan Treadeau, and Michaela Velmer. |
Earn honors at
LMS
L’Anse Middle School
announced its honor roll for the second marking period. Names with
an asterisk* indicate a 4.0. Included are:
Grade six: Kylene Almli, Ryan Beauprey, Emily Beer, Madison Bianco,
Jay Bugni, Porter Davis, Brittny Delene, Samuel Dix*, Erin Elmblad,
Lauren Elmblad, Sierra Frank, Tucker Hemmila, Dana Hochstein,
Rejean Houle, Richard, Juntunen, Anna Kissel, Brandon Koski, Lana
Lind, Olivia Lohmann, Miah Maki, Brett Mattson, Rachel Mills,
Philip Pyykkonen, Paige Risku, Jessica Rossi, Valerie Sliger,
Taryn Taisto and Melody Williams.
Grade seven: Emily Ahola, Dominique Aleo, Austin Ayres, Jessi
Bianco, Ashley Bugni, Cody Clement, Jonathon DesLaurier, Breanna
Dudo, Madeline Etelamaki, Jacob Fedie, Ashley Giddings, Joshua
Hansen, |
Karli Hoggard, Lindsey
Hulkonen, Zach Hulkkonen, Kelsey Kemppainen, Colton Lahti, Jill
Lawson, Vanessa LeClaire, Raymond Miron, Nicole Rossi, Elsa
Schwartz, Genevieve Smith*, Lucas Tarvainen, Shayla Truesdell,
Allison Waara and Carli Younggren.
Grade eight: Joshua Barnett, Casey Carter, Keith Denomie, Samantha
Hatfield, Lauren Hendricks, Jenna Hiltunen, Megan Johnson,
Samantha Krajnak, Kayla LaBerge, Tristan Leaf, Eva Lind, Jaclyn
Lister, Jonathon Magaraggia, Abby Marinich, Brett Martinez, Kayla
Nagele, Alyssa Norback*, Jacob Ostermeyer, Daniel Perrow, Valerie
Rajala*, Kelsey Ross, Rebecca Roth, Brandon Scroggs, Autumn Soli,
Madissen Swanson, Shawnia Taisto, Abbey Tembruell and Megan
VanWagner. |
SHS ready to
celebrate
SHS students are
looking forward to the annual celebration of Catholic Schools Week which
will take place next week. The event spotlights Catholic education and
all that it offers--faith, knowledge, discipline, morals. This year’s
theme is Catholic Schools--Dividends for Life.
Students will enjoy a variety of activities including dress up days
and fun activities. The festivities kick-off with the Ed Clements
Memorial Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, Jan. 30. Other events include
Family Science Night and special Masses during the week.
As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, we would like to acknowledge
those in the community who continue to support our local Catholic
School.
Bohnak, book
signing for new UP Almanac
Finlandia
University’s North Wind Books will host a book signing with author and
meteorologist Karl Bohnak on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, from 11:30 a.m. to
1:30 p.m.
Bohnak will sign copies of his book, “Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Almanac,” which he co-authored with Ron Jolly. The Almanac is an
illustrated and comprehensive 580-page guide to the UP with over 200
photos. The “fun facts” included in the book cover practically every
acre of the Upper Peninsula.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
'Intention
Yoga' offering classes
Shanel LeRue of
L’Anse is opening “Intention Yoga” featuring weekly yoga classes. A
certified yoga instructor, LeRue will offer a beginners and an
intermediate class at her studio on Main Street in L’Anse. Classes will
be offered on Tuesday evenings.
Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, is “National Yoga Day” and LeRue will
launch her new business with an all-day open house. LeRue’s studio is
located in the yellow building next to Baragaland Senior Citizens at 4
N. Main Street, L’Anse.
Finlandia
University releases fall honors
Finlandia University
recognized students who earned grade point averages from 3.50 to 4.0 in
the Fall 2009 semester. The Dean’s 4.0, Dean’s, and Honors Lists include
students who completed at least 12 credit hours in the Fall 2009
semester.
The Dean’s List includes: Marc Marcotte, 4.0, L’Anse.
Dean’s List includes: Michelle Maki, 3.914, Baraga; Kristen
Collins, 3.85, L’Anse; Beth Dorsky, 3.88, L’Anse; Dana Hansen, 3.75,
L’Anse; and Michael Wilson, 3.925, Pelkie.
Honors List includes: Dae Fawn Assinewe, 3.564, Baraga; Erin
Connor, 3.625, L’Anse; Emily Lanczy, 3.54, L’Anse; Jessica Tollefson,
3.50, L’Anse; and Michelle Wood, 3.538, L’Anse.
Earn MTU
degrees
Michigan
Technological University honored the achievements of nearly 400
graduates Dec. 12, 2009, at Midyear Commencement. Among them were the
following from this area:
Alston: Jeremy Sullivan, Bachelor of Science in Forestry and Jeremy
Sullivan, Certificate in Industrial Forestry.
Baraga: Joseph Turpeinen, Bachelor of Science in Construction
Management.
L’Anse: Megan Elmblad, Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
and Andrew Quinn, Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

|
FOUNDATION YOUTH
COMMITTEE--L-r, front row, Savannah Dakota, Brittany Kemppainen,
Erica Bedner (YAC Secretary), Cassie Dix, Ariel Gougeon (YAC Vice
President). Back row, l-r, Gordette Leutz (BCCF Director), Joseph
O’Leary (BCCF President), Bridget and Ken Summers, Michael Jones (YAC
President), Jessica Messer (YAC Treasurer). |
Community
foundation hosts annual meeting
The Baraga County
Community Foundation (BCCF) welcomed the addition of the Ken Summers
Scholarship Fund in 2009. The Scholarship Fund targets the educational
advancement of graduating students of L’Anse High School who exhibit
exceptional leadership abilities.
Ken and Bridget Summers also became the sponsors of the BCCF Youth
Advisory Committee (YAC) which is committed to developing leadership
qualities in Baraga County Youth. The YAC attends annual national
leadership training conferences, conducts local youth needs assessments,
performs community services, and develops and implements programs
targeting youth and community needs.
Radon kits for
free
January is National
Radon Action Month. The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department is
offering free radon test kits to encourage home owners to protect their
families from exposure to radon gas.
Radon exposure kills an estimated 20,000 people in the U.S. each
year and is a significant risk in the western Upper Peninsula where up
to 10 percent of the homes tested in Houghton, Gogebic, Baraga,
Keweenaw, and Ontonagon counties have elevated radon levels. The easily
preventable health risk of living with prolonged radon exposure can be
dramatically reduced by using a free radon test kit and, if necessary,
inexpensive home repair.
Portage Library
programs
The library is the
site of the 4-H Entrepreneurial Fun! program that will be offered in a
series of four workshops for youth ages 12 to 19. Students will learn
what it is like to turn an idea into a small business. Field work will
include investigating local businesses to learn how they started and
then set up a small business of their own.
Workshops at the library will be held on Jan. 25 and Feb. 1 and
Feb. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m. To register, call Carol Kreher at the 4-H office
at 482-5830.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Snowy posters
| Before going out into the
wintery weather for real, some of Sacred Heart School’s
kindergarten and first grade students show off the winter pictures
they created in art class using construction paper, oil pastels,
and paint. |
KBOCC issues
honors
Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa
Community College announced its honor students for Fall 2009 semester.
Deans List (3.5-4.0 GPA with 12 or more credits): Christopher Chosa,
Shelly Danielson and Ryan Koski .
Honors List (3.0-3.49 GPA with 12 or more credits): Cindy Knapp.
Scholastic Achievement (3.25-4.0 GPA with less than 12 credits):
Veronica Adams, Karen Anderson, Samantha Bach, Agatha Cardinal, Anita
Chosa, Cynthia Curtis, Philomena Ekdahl, Emily Evans, Darlene Genschow,
John Hebert, Danielle Hueckstaedt, Michelle Hoggard, Gary Loonsfoot,
Sr., James Loonsfoot, Kim Maki, April Niemi, Carol O’Hare and Betti
Szaroletta.
Petoskey to
present 'Dancing the Dream'
Native American
elder Warren Petoskey will give a presentation about his recently
published book, “Dancing My Dream,” Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, from 4-5 p.m.
at the Finlandia University Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock.
The presentation includes video, music, storytelling, and dancing.
Petoskey, age 64, is an elder of the Waganakising Odawa and
Minneconjou Lakotah nations. He is a writer, storyteller, artisan,
musician, and dancer; and he plays the Native flute, the hand drum, and
the guitar.
CJ Sullivan
LSSI team hosting book reading
The C.J.
Sullivan Elementary LSSI (Lake Superior Stewardship Initiative) team is
hosting a book club reading of “Last Child in the Woods.”
The group will reflect upon and examine the growing concern
about nature deficit in children and the corresponding social movement
that has emerged in the United States and several other countries. The
club will also examine personal roles in helping children experience
nature.
H1N1 vaccine
now in supply, available
H1N1 vaccine is now
in good supply and available to all community residents over the age of
six months. Most local medical providers and all health department
offices have vaccine on hand.
Health Department Medical Director Teresa Frankovich, M.D.
encourages everyone to consider getting vaccinated. “There is concern
that a third wave of H1N1 flu may occur this winter,” Frankovich said.
“Flu shots are a very important way to limit the spread of flu.” One
dose of vaccine is needed for people 10 years of age and older, but
children under 10 years need two doses, about one month apart, to get
good immunity.
Ford closure
news in 2009
In the Sentinel’s
look back at the major stories we presented in 2009 (Jan.-June reviewed
in Dec. 30 issue, and July-Dec. reviewed in Jan. 6 issue) we overlooked
a story that deserved to be included.
A 34 year-old L’Anse business closed in June. Thomas Ford Motors
went out of business due to the devastated local and national economy.
The business was purchased by Larry and Carrie Lou Thomas in 1975.
Larry was deeply involved in the car dealership, and in many community
projects, until his unexpected death on March 19, 2008. The couple’s
son, Kent Thomas, was serving as general manager at that time and he
remained in that position until the decision to close was made.
Federal funding
to be extended for benefits
Federal action to
extend the ending date for federally-funded unemployment benefits means
that thousands of jobless Michigan workers will be able to stretch out
their entitlement to unemployment benefits.
“Instead of the federally-funded benefits expiring on Dec. 31,
2009, the date has been extended by two months to Feb. 28, 2010,”
Stephen Geskey, director of the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA),
said. “That is great news for the many unemployed in Michigan who may
have seen their entitlement to additional benefits end Dec. 31.”
Wednesday, January 6, 2010

|
ENTHUSIASM!--The L’Anse
Christmas tree decorating event brought lots of community pride
and participation. Donations and votes for people’s favorite trees
raised more than $2,500 for St. Vincent de Paul. Among winners
are, l-r, Jan Cram, Percie Lee Grandy (DDA and Oralie’s) and Elsa
Clement with the Rad Hats whose tree took second place, Tami
Larson (Catholic Youth Group, and L’Anse Pharmacy) whose tree,
pictured, won first place, Jennifer Geer, (Bayshore Veterinary
Clinic) whose tree placed third, and L’Anse Village Manager Bob
LaFave who presented DDA checks to the winners. |
L'Anse tree
decorating raises $2500 for Vinnies
L’Anse’s Christmas
Tree Decorating Contest ended on Christmas Eve. Twenty-five businesses
and groups decorated trees placed downtown. People “voted” for their
favorites through donations to charity.
St. Vincent de Paul received $2523.65 total in cash and food card
donations. Beside the two anonymous large donations of $500 and $600,
two $250 Pat’s Foods gift cards went into canisters. The rest of the
money was accumulated the hard way, by nickel and dime donations.
Gallery 325
host reception Jan 8
Gallery 325 will
host its January show, “Forecast, Blue Today, Blue Tomorrow; Living With
Depression”.
It was conceived to draw attention to the illness of depression, a
condition often undiagnosed, mis-understood and unacknowledged by its
sufferers.
It is estimated that one in six Americans will experience a
depressive episode in their lifetime, and only 50 percent of those
meeting the criteria for diagnosis will receive treatment. Of those that
have suffered a depressive episode that went untreated, approximately
half will experience repeat episodes.
An open reception for “Forecast, Blue Today, Blue Tomorrow; Living
With Depression”, will be held on Friday, Jan. 8, 2010, from 7-9 p.m. at
Gallery 325 at the Marilyn Dammann Community Art Center, 315 McGillan
St., Baraga. Refreshments will be served.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Heart warmers
| Second grade students
from Mrs. LaCourt’s and Mrs. Warner’s classes warm the audience’s
hearts during the Pelkie Learning Center’s “Home for the Holidays”
program on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009. |
Wednesday, December 23, 2009

|
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS--KBIC
officer Tyler Larson shows Baraga fifth grader Christopher Schjoth
how an officer would restrain a dangerous or uncontrollable
person. Students learned about socially responsible behavior,
consequences of breaking the law, and being good citizens through
the TEAM program. |
KBIC officer,
L'Anse, Baraga kids enjoy 'TEAM'
The Teaching
Educating And Mentoring (TEAM) Law Enforcement School Liaison Program
has been completed in the Baraga and L’Anse Area Schools.
More than 190 fourth and fifth graders at L’Anse and Baraga
elementary schools have interacted with KBIC Tribal Police Officer Tyler
Larson for the past seven weeks. The program is under the direction of
KBIC “Weed & Seed” officer Chris Gerard.
“This is similar to the DARE program. It’s community policing. We
build positive interaction with kids. Last year we were only able to do
the program in Baraga. This year we went to Baraga and L’Anse.”
SHS play
explains 'Christmas miracle'
SHS students
presented the gift of song to a proud crowd of parents, grandparents,
and others last week during the Sacred Heart School Christmas program.
The theme that humble offerings given with great love help to share the
miracle of Christmas, was illustrated through characters who seemed to
struggle in their day to day existence, but ended up being just what was
needed to fill an important role in the birth of Jesus.
Third grader Cody Roth wrote about his part in the program:
I played Angel Gabriel in the school play. The Angel Gabriel hears
secrets but can’t keep them. He tells Mary that she was going to have a
baby. That baby is Baby Jesus.
BHK gets
$477,491 in grant
The
Baraga-Houghton-Keweenaw Child Development Board, Inc. and the Northeast
Michigan Community Service Agency have received a total of $1.5 million
to expand Head Start programs. In total, 22 new jobs will be created as
a result of the grants.
The funding has been awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS) as part of the stimulus, or the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), to support the enrollment of additional
children and families in Head Start programs as well as create new
teaching and other positions in Early Head Start programs.
“Head Start programs are vital to giving millions of children the
foundation they need to prepare for school and a lifetime of learning,”
Congressman Bart Stupak, (D-Menominee) said.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Toys for Tots
| Becky Stroube’s fourth
grade students at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School in L’Anse
display gifts they collected for the Toys for Tots drive.
|
Baraga releases
term one honors
Philip LaTendresse
Elementary School of Baraga announces its term one 2009-10 honor
roll.
Included are grade four: Preston Ellsworth, Harlee Froberg,
Raymond Gauthier-Tolonen, Caroline Herrala, Keegan Julio, Sofia
Kyllonen, JeriAnn Lanala-Tervo, Gunnar Lindemann and Kirsten
Nelson.
Grade four: McKenzie Barrett, Bryce Crawford, Hannah Haataja, Alex
Jahfetson, Kooper Jahfetson, Colton Lindemann, Hailey Lindemann,
Chelsey Pittsley, Trevor Tangen and Jaycie Turpeinen.
Grade five: Coleson Bratt, Brooklyn Fish, Kara Hazen, Adam Irwin,
Kollin Kangas, Brittany Keranen, Trenton Laramore, Ashtin
Lindemann, Nicole Maki, Kerstyn Nurmela, |
Carsyn Osterman, Nick
Turpeinen, Christopher Schjoth and Syndi Voakes.
Grade five: Casey Chagnon, David DesRochers, Tyler Fish, Bailey
Froberg, Chase Holmquist, Megan Kinnunen, Kyle Lake, Lyndsey Mayo,
Darla Mensch, Adebria Miron, Rian Turunen, Wyatte Walitalo and
Nate Welsh.
Grade six: Linnea Bemis, Madison Clisch, Andrea Haagsma, Anna
Isaacson, Sammi Jahfetson, Cortney Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little,
Clayton Luther, Keisha McHenry, Nathan Miron, Austin Smith and
Brendan Varline.
Grade six: Raistlin Awonohopay, Austin Domitrovich, Anna
Fredrickson, Ireland Ingram, Courtney Mayo, Annaleese Rasanen,
Bryce Retaskie, Teal Sackett and Josh Sutherland. |
Stimacs'
donation benefits CCHS
An annual tradition
is forming around a generous donation to the Copper Country Humane
Society.
Dave and Diana Stimac of Nature’s Way Woodworking in Alberta have
donated one of Dave’s unique coffee tables to be raffled. Funds go
toward taking care of the dogs and cats at the humane society.
For three years the Stimacs have provided the highly prized
birdseye maple and minieral tables. They have raised a total of $24,000
for CCHS.
Caroling Dec.
21 in L'Anse
Fifth graders from
C.J. Sullivan Elementary will be caroling in downtown L’Anse on Monday,
Dec. 21 from 1:15-2:15 p.m. Teachers, staff, volunteers and students
will sing at the Broad and Main Street intersection, and then split into
smaller groups to share their spirit and enthusiasm with the area. Don’t
be concerned about not knowing the words! Any fifth grader will be more
than happy to share their song folder. All are invited and welcome to
join in the fun.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009

|
NEW OWNERS--Bill and
Laura Sever own and operate Bill’s Grill, a new restaurant in
Sidnaw. The Severs bring plenty of experience to the plate as
owners of Mickey’s Tavern in Laurium and Bill & Laura’s Family
Restaurant in Calumet. Bill’s Grill is about half the size of
their other restaurant, but its cozy atmosphere is just right for
the Severs. |
Sidnaw welcomes
new restaurant : Bill's Grill
Christmas came early
to Sidnaw this year when a new business opened in an old, familiar
place.
Bill’s Grill is the small town’s newest addition, located on M-28
in Sidnaw in the building that once housed Mom’s Kitchen. The Kitchen
closed for business about a year and a half ago. Bill’s doors swung open
Nov. 21, 2009.
The restaurant is the third business venture by owners Bill and
Laura Sever of Laurium. The Severs also own and operate Mickey’s Tavern
in Laurium and Bill & Laura’s Family Restaurant in Calumet.
Baraga High
School announces honor roll
Baraga High School released
its 2009-10 first quarter honor roll. Names with an asterisk*
denote all A’s.
Grade 12: Ashley Angle*, Erica Bedner*, Jessi DesRochers, Robert
Duschaine, Nathan Eilola, Rebecca Ellenich, Leif Forcia Jr., Ariel
Gougeon, Tanya Held, Ellyn Hurst*, Brian Johnson*, John Jukkala,
Kristin Koski, Brittney Koskinen, Paige Maskill*, Jessica Messer,
Rebecca Rasanen*, James Reynolds, Matthew Santti, David Seppanen,
Kyle Seppanen, Kelly Shanahan, Kaitlin Tikkanen and Brad Wadaga .
Grade 11: Tashina Emery-Kauppila, Bryant Froberg*, Andrea
Heikkinen, Nicole Keranen, Terrence Mackey, Gina Magaraggia,
Brianna Poehls, Zachary Sauvola, Megan Turunen, Brent VanAlstine,
Deanna Velmer and Dollcie Webb.
Grade 10: Daniel Alexander, Richard Alexander, Bethanne Cadeau,
Justin Clisch, Savannah Dakota*, Dylan Hemmila, Dustin Juntunen,
Gabriel Mackey, Hunter Maki, Otis Malmgren, Alexandria Mayo*,
Raymond Niemi, Briar Nieskes, Jana Parkila*, Hailey Pelon, Corey
Pietila*, Alisha Tilson, Joshua Turunen and Jessica Whitty. |
Grade 9: Nadine Barry, Ethan
Botruff, Brooke Chaudier, Miranda Coppler*, Mariah Fish*, Shannon
Fish*, Alex Gabe, Olivia Ingram*, Jon Kaster, Joann LaBeau, Tara
LaFernier, Ross LaPlante, Rebecca Larson*, Dustin Lindemann,
Taylor Lindemann*, William Mayo, Heather Mensch*, Brittany Nieskes*,
Taryn Nurmela*, Katie Schjoth*, Virginia Shelifoe, Taylor Tervo,
Brittany Tikkanen, Paige Webb and Christine Wilson*.
Grade 8: Kelly Bedner*, Frederick Dakota, Shawn Diederich, Jenna
Heikkinen, Dillion Hueckstaedt, Jaclyn Jahfetson*, Amber
Kamarainen, Mackenzie Keefer, Winter Keefer, Harley Lindemann*,
Zachery Owens, Taylor Swanson and Josi Thierry.
Grade 7: Audrey Barrett, Corbin Crittenden, Tessa Gilbertson,
Elizabeth Keinath, Sean Lake, Bronz LeRue, Edward Ling, Emma
Marquardt, Kelli Massie, Gabrielle Mayo, Shayla Mayo, Kayla
Messer, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo, Jaclyn Wadaga*and Sonja
Welch*. |
Remembrance
program Dec. 14
On Monday, Dec. 14
at 7 p.m., Jacobson Funeral Home will host a Holiday Remembrance program
for all area residents who have experienced the death of someone loved.
The program will include a presentation on coping with holiday
grief by Rev. John Autio, as well as a tree lighting ceremony.
“The holidays are a wonderful time of year. But they can be a
particularly difficult time to cope with the loss of a loved one. If you
are struggling with grief over the loss of someone loved this holiday
season please plan on attending this program,” said Susan Jacobs of
Jacobson Funeral Home.
Love Light Tree
shines bright
Baraga County Home
Care and Hospice honored the memory of those held dear with its annual
Love Light Tree Ceremony on Dec. 2, 2009.
The Love Lights Ceremony recognizes both the joys and challenges
the holiday season presents, in a setting that is illuminated by the
warm glow of the tree lights and camaraderie of participants in
attendance.
Providing a healing tradition at the onset of the holiday season
can help soothe feelings of loss. A Munson Nurse, Jane Leidich, launched
the Love Light Tree Ceremony in 1995 in honor of her mother, who died of
cancer that year. The ceremony provides a bridge into a season filled
with memories at a time when a family can be overwhelmed by the sadness
and grief of missing a loved one.
Weather program
Dec. 14
The Ottawa Visitor
Center National Weather Service presentation scheduled for Dec. 9 has
been changed to Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at 1 p.m.
The Ottawa Visitor Center, in cooperation with the National Weather
Service, will be sponsoring a free winter weather presentation on
Wednesday, Dec. 14, at 1 p.m. (CST).
The Ottawa Visitor Center is located at the corner of US 2 and Hwy.
45 in Watersmeet.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009

|
NEW BUSINESS--Rick Geroux,
Jr. plans on future expansion at the new Kwik Lube in Baraga, but
for now is happy to get the business up and running in the
community. Located on M-38 a half mile east of the Ojibwa Casino,
the business is open Monday through Friday from 10-6 and Saturday
from 10-3. Basic service includes up to five quarts of oil and a
filter change, with a full service option also available. A grand
opening is slated for next Friday. |
Kwik Lube opens
in Baraga County
There’s a new and
quick way to get an oil change in Baraga with the opening of Kwik Lube
located on M-38.
Rick Geroux Jr. noted the business is the first and only 10-minute
drive-through oil change service in Baraga County. It’s exact location
is a half-mile east of the Ojibwa Casino.
Geroux explained the service has several levels. The basic service
option includes up to five quarts of oil and a filter change. The full
service option includes oil, filter, lube, a 21-point vehicle inspection
and topping off all fluids up to a half-quart if needed.
Community
Schools releases honor roll
L’Anse-Baraga
Community Schools announces its first quarter 2009/10 Alternative
Education honor roll. Included are Melanie Durant, Mariah Furaiter,
Jacqueline Jossens, Shawn LaBeau, Edward LeRue and Amber Soli.
L’Anse-Baraga Community Schools Adult Education first quarter
2009/10 honor roll includes: Stephen Bates, Peggy Cadeau, Sondra
Chapman, Bryan Decker, Ryan Kilpatrick, Jordan Pyykkonen, Ryoko Tanaka
and Lisa Vokoviak.
Catholic
schools get 'Legacy' grants
Distribution of
grants totaling $82,895 has been made to Catholic schools from the
Legacy of Faith endowment fund for 2009.
Each of the nine Catholic schools in the Upper Peninsula is
receiving an unrestricted grant of $7,000. Some of the ways the schools
are using the money include: tuition assistance, general operating
expenditures, laptop computers, science lab equipment, textbooks, school
maintenance projects, professional development and marketing.
Hospices help
with seasonal grief issues
The holiday season,
traditionally a time to enjoy family gatherings, can be especially
difficult for individuals and families who have experienced the death of
someone they love.
“Holidays are a time when the world slows down. We get off our
treadmill and acknowledge what is important,” notes Jeff Towns,
President of the Michigan Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.
“Time is typically centered on relaxing and enjoying ourselves. We
gather with family and dear friends. Consequently, all our losses are
felt more acutely during this time. Slowing down means there is more
space for pain to make its presence felt.”
Aspirus Health
, Hospice receives accreditation
Aspirus Superior
Home Health and Hospice has been granted continued and unqualified
accreditation for quality home care and hospice programs by the
Washington, D.C. based Community Health Accreditation Program, Inc.,
(CHAP).
The organization was granted CHAP’s highest accreditation for three
more years. CHAP has set the highest standards for community and home
based health services for 30 years. Due to this recognition, the federal
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recognizes CHAP
accredited organizations as automatically certified to be a provider for
the Medicare program.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
|
WELL READ--Larry Chabot
of Marquette displays his new book, “Saving Our Sons,” about the
positive impact the Civilian Conservation Corps had on a
generation of young men in the UP. |
'Saving Our
Sons' explores CCC legacy
Larry Chabot of
Marquette has brought the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) back to
light in his new book, “Saving Our Sons.”
The 200-page text with over 180 photos inside is a tribute to FDR’s
“New Deal” program. The CCC recruited young men from financially
strapped families to work on conservation projects during the Great
Depression.
Workers were trained, housed in barracks and outfitted in military
style. They received three squares a day, medical and dental care,
training and education, and were paid $30 a month for their work. Five
dollars went in their pockets. The other $25 went to their families and
homes.
Earn honors at
C.J.
C.J. Sullivan Elementary
School has released its first marking period honor roll. Names
with an asterisk* indicate all A’s.
Grade four: Kassidy Adams, Anikin Anderson, Tyler Ballor, Steven
Beauprey, Taylor Brown, Justin Cichosz, Daniel Curtis, Haley
Denomie, Sarah Dix *, Gregory Dowd, Brendan Everson, Reeyce Fish,
Lindsey Frank, Caleb Hansen, David Harju, Caleb Hiltunen, Nicholas
Hochstein, Bradley Justice, Cara Kent, Randall Laitila, Jr.,
Kelsey Lindstrom, Kazie Lupro, Megan Maki, Devin Niemi, Samantha
Peltola, Anna Pietila, Kassidy Pirkola, Sean Selden, Taylor
Shaffer, Martin Shamion, Dorian Summers, Caleb Sweeney,
|
Carter Tollefson, Stella
Tortolini, Ross Treadeau and Nathaniel Vervisch.
Grade five: Aaron Altz, Nicholas Carter, Aaron Collins, Canyon
Delene, Ryan Delene, Shay Ekdahl *, Brian Fedie, Lauren Gabe,
Laura Gransell, Dylan Grentz, Winter Haataja, Christopher Harden,
Dylan Harden, Dana Hiltunen*, Grace Hoskins, Samantha Johnson,
Katlyn King, Justice Kinnunen, Maegan Kraft, Sabrina Laux, Michael
Lytikainen, Caitlyn Menge, Brian Ochoa, Jr., Lucas Ollila, David
Olson, Emma Ostermeyer, Grayson Roe, Lauryn Schneider, Caleb
Scroggs, Chase Sullivan, Brandt Tembreull and Brook Thomas. |
Santa steps up
for area children
“Santa heard Baraga
County has one of the highest unemployment rates and he would like to
send some extra gifts this way to the families that have been hit by
unemployment,” according to one of Santa’s local helpers.
Send a letter of interest with a contact phone number, the number
of children, boys or girls, and children’s ages to the VFW of L’Anse,
c/o Santa’s Helpers, 105 N. Front Street, L’Anse, MI, 49946. Letters
must be received by Dec. 15, 2009.
Anyone willing to help may donate wrapping paper, tape, name tags,
etc, at the L’Anse VFW. “People could also buy gifts, or extra help with
wrapping is welcome, too,” Santa’s Helper said.
“Gifts are limited so respond quickly and one of Santa’s Helpers
will call you to let you know if there is a gift under the tree for your
family.”
L'Anse High
School announces honors
L’Anse High School has
released its term one honor roll. Names with an asterisk* denote a
4.0 average.
Seniors: Ashlyn Ahola, Dennis Anderson, Samantha Bach, Daniel
Brunet, Cody Carter*, Dylan Cassel, Gregor Cerne, Jordan Dix*,
Cassandra Evans*, Joseph Fedie, Mitch Fedie, Christian Gagnon,
Eddy Gagnon, Nicholas Hendrickson, Isaac Hiltunen, Jason Hulkonen,
Joshua Johnson, Charles Kantola, Joshua Keinz, Devinne Kent, Kylee
Kristo, Sean Lincoln, Lara Lindlbauer, Parker Miller, Samantha
Nagele, Patrick Osterman, Robert Ostrout, Justin Reilley, Dylan
Seavoy, Daniel Sterbenz, Tyler Sterbenz, Kelsey Syrjala, Dylan
Tollefson, Samantha Tollefson, Anthony Vassallo, Cassandra Wesner,
Thomas Wiideman, and Michael A. Williams.
Juniors: Gerald Archambeau, Rebecca Augustine*, Kelli Barnett,
David Bier, Carli Chaudier, Katelyn Darcy, Brooke Davis*, Nicole
Delene, Cody Dingeldey, Jacqueline Dove, Whitney Everson, Breanne
Fish, Sarah Hansen*, Jake Jaeger, Haley Ketola, Aleah Kissel,
Paige Koskinen*, Marie Kovach, Jessica Lawson, Samantha Lloyd,
Dallas Maki, Christopher Mayo, Nicholas Mayo, Brittany Mcdonald,
Tara Meleen*, Rebecca Mills*, Laney Minerick, Stacy Motley,
Michael Olsen, Misty Owens, Nicole Parker, Rachel Rexford, Joseph
Richard, Jacob Schwartz, |
- Alycia Seratti, Casey Sliger*, Jaclyn
Sliger*, Kortney Tarvainen, Travis Tollefson, Joshua Truesdell,
Kristopher Turunen, Courtney Vanderzanden, and Daniel Walbridge.
- Sophomores: Sierra Ayres, Bridgette
Bouchard, Acacia Copley, Cassandra Dix, Klaire Fedie, Scott
Gerzetich, Joslyn Hatfield, Carter Hendricks, Melody Hirzel,
Dean Johnson, Samantha Juntunen, Brittney Kemppainen, Samantha
Koski, Mckenna Lane, Miles Loosemore, Nathan Loosemore, Claire
Mackenzie, Jessica Makela*, Sarah Mars, Hope Minton, Deena Marie
Misegan, Jessica Nagele, Jordan Newland, Amanda Rantala,
Stephanie Raymond, Sean Rexford, Cynthia Robacker, John Smith,
Autumn Swanson, Emma Tembreull, Derek Treadeau, Alex Vanwagner*,
Andrew Vassallo, Dillon Velmer, Anthony Wakeham, Ashley
Walbridge, and Molly Wilder.
Freshman: Charlie Beer, Samantha Cangemi, Jordan Collins, Kelsey
Collins, Amanda Dufek, Shantell Ekdahl, Zachary Evans, Gregory
Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy, Mercie Hackeman, Joey Hansen, Alexandra
Hatfield, Jacob Hiltunen, Rebecca Hulkonen, Brianna Koski,
Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson, Brianna Mayo, Heather Mccarthy,
Derek Meleen, Alexis Reilley, Jeffery Roth, Mary Schwartz,
Brianna Steinberg, Ryan Treadeau and Michaela Velmer.
|
Pynnonen and
Ingram teaching new doctors
Baraga County
Memorial Hospital family physicians Scott Pynnonen, M.D., and Todd
Ingram, M.D., have taken on the role of teaching. They are working with
family physicians in training from Marquette General Health System’s
Family Medicine Residency Program in addition to seeing patients at BCMH.
The teaching program has been in existence since 1979 and has
trained over 140 family physicians, many whom are in practice throughout
the Upper Peninsula.
SHS developing
Strategic Plan with consultant James Krenik
The stage has been
set for creating a three-year plan for the growth and development of
Sacred Heart School.
Fr. John Longbucco, Principal Anne Schumer, and the SHS Commission
would like to acknowledge everyone who attended the strategic planning
meeting last Thursday evening and for those who remembered us in prayer.
James Krenek walked participants through a process which allowed
everyone in attendance an opportunity to give input on the school at the
present time and what they would like to see for the future. “It was a
good gathering of ideas to get us started,” remarked SHS veteran third
grade teacher Karen Sands.
Michigan Works
gets more funding
An award of $530,000
through the No Worker Left Behind initiative has been made to Western
Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!, the local Michigan Works! agency (MWA)
serving job seekers in Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, and
Ontonagon counties.
The funds will be used to support continuing and comprehensive
re-employment services, including job training and job search assistance
for workers adversely affected by the economy.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
|
ON GUARD--The guard tower
that once overlooked the German POW camp in Sidnaw is scheduled to
be taken down and moved to Prickett-Grooms Airport. After the
guard shack has been repaired, the tower will be placed near the
entrance to the airport which once served as a training site for
WWII aircraft. |
POW camp guard
tower coming to Pricket-Grooms
Pieces of Sidnaw’s
past are coming together at Prickett-Grooms Airport, future location of
a guard tower from a WWII German POW camp.
Plans are underway to move the structure from the former Wood
Development Corporation sawmill to the airport before winter sets in.
The tower will add an historic aspect to the tiny airport, just north of
M-28 in Sidnaw, that also has ties to WWII.
Brad Frederick, president of the Southern Houghton County Airport &
Heritage Association, is a driving force behind the project. The
association he leads has made its own history in the community by
preserving Sidnaw’s past, with an eye for enhancing its future.
Vaccines
available
The Western UP
Health Department is scheduling H1N1 (swine) flu vaccination clinics at
its county offices. Vaccine for this new strain of influenza is still in
limited supply.
With several thousand doses distributed to hospitals and clinics
throughout the Western UP, the health department is now able to offer
vaccine at its offices, only to people in the five priority groups
established by the federal Centers for Disease Control
(CDC), including:
• Pregnant woman
• Household contacts and daycare providers of children under 6
months
• Children to young adults, age 6 months to 24 years
• Adults 25-64 with chronic health conditions such as asthma, heart
and lung disease, diabetes, compromised immunity and
other illnesses
• Health care workers and emergency medical personnel
The L’Anse office will conduct a walk-in clinic Friday, Nov. 20
from 2 to 4 p.m., no appointment needed. Call 524-6142 for information.
The office staff can schedule vaccination appointments at other
times, based on availability of staff and vaccine, for people in the
target groups. Call the health department office or check the agency web
site at www.wuphd.org for
updates, or call your health care provider for more information.
Christmas
committee meeting
The Hometown
Christmas Committee is planning this year’s downtown Christmas parade
and other holiday activities at a meeting Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009, at
6:15 p.m. at the Nite Owl Cafe. Besides the parade, the group will
discuss plans for horse-drawn wagon rides, Christmas caroling, chestnut
or marshmallow roasting, the tree-decorating contest and any new fun
Yule community events people can think up. Light refreshments will be
served. Those who are unable to attend but would like to share ideas,
can call Susan at 524-7899.
Many earn
honors at middle school
L’Anse Middle School
announces its honor roll for the first marking period. Names with
an asterisk* indicate a 4.0 average.
Grade six: Kylene Almli, Michael Anderson, Ryan Beauprey, Emily
Beer, Courtney Bianco, Madison Bianco, Jay Bugni, Brandi Cote,
Fred Cote IV, Porter Davis*, Brittny Delene, Samuel Dix, Kaitlin
Durnion, Erin Elmblad, Lauren Elmblad, Sierra Frank, Tyler Funke,
Jacob Gabe, Joseph Hansen, Tucker Hemmila, Dana Hochstein, Rejean
Houle, Richard Juntunen, Anna Kissel, Brandon Koski, Trystan Lahti,
Lana Lind, Olivia Lohmann, Jay Loman, Miah Maki, Brett Mattson,
Shaylin Mendard, Rachel Mills, Skylah Minerick, Sydney Mukka,
Philip Pyykkonen, Andre Richard, Paige Risku, Jessica Rossi,
Valerie Sliger, Taryn Taisto and Melody Williams.
Grade seven: Emily Ahola, Dominique Aleo, Theodore Ayres,
|
Jessi Bianco, Ashley Bugni,
Cody Clement, Jonathon DesLaurier, Breanna Dudo, Madeline
Etelamaki, Jacob Fedie, Ashely Giddings, Joshua Hansen, Karli
Hoggard, Cole Huhtasaari, Lindsey Hulkonen, Zachary Hulkkonen,
Kelsey Kemppainen, Colton Lahti, Jill Lawson, Vanessa LeClaire,
Nicole Rossi, Elsa Schwartz, Genevieve Smith, Shayla Truesdell,
Allison Waara, Abbey Younggren, and Carli Younggren.
Grade eight: Joshua Barnett, Casey Carter, Kaila Copley, Keith
Denomie, Samantha Hatfield, Lauren Hendricks, Jenna Hiltunen,
Megan Johnson, Samantha Krajnak, Kayla LaBerge, Tristan Leaf, Eva
Lind, Abby Marinich, Brett Martinez, Kayla Nagele, Alyssa Norback,
Jacob Ostermeyer, Valerie Rajala, Kelsey Ross, Brandon Scroggs,
Madissen Swanson, Shawnia Taisto, Abbey Tembreull and Megan
VanWagner. |
Bookmark
contest at L'Anse library
The annual Friends
of the Library bookmark contest is open to all literary artists of the
L’Anse Area School/Public Library. This year’s theme is “A Book For All
Seasons.” Prizes for winning designs this year will be gift certificates
from the Book World bookstore in Houghton.
The contest is open only to persons between the ages of 4 and 18,
and drawings must be original. Contestants must live within the service
area of the public library, and may submit only one entry each.
The size of the bookmark must be 9” by 2” and have the words
“Friends of the Library” incorporated into the design. Entries may be
drawn in any colors on a white background, and must be submitted to the
library by 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 9, 2009. Entries may be mailed to the
library at 201 N. Fourth St., L’Anse, MI 49946-1499.
Business
counseling at Finlandia Nov. 19
The Keweenaw
Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) and Finlandia University invite
area entrepreneurs to take advantage of free one-on-one business
counseling sessions at the university’s Jutila Center campus on
Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Business consultant Roger Woods of Homer Productivity, LLC, can
advise on all aspects of small business development from the initial
idea through growth and expansion strategies.
Appointments are recommended and can be made by phone at 487-7450
or by e-mail cgdb@finlandia.edu
The Finlandia University Jutila Center is at 200 Michigan Street,
Hancock
Wednesday, November 11, 2009

|
SHE GETS AROUND!--Sarah
LeClaire, is already an accomplished traveler. She is the
granddaughter of Ramona and Ronald J. LeClaire of L’Anse and had
been a frequent summer visitor here. She is the daughter of Gary
and Ellen LeClaire of Texas, and now an undergraduate student at
the University of Southern California in International Relations.
LeClaire had a great adventure this summer in a USC internship
focusing on international relations in Taipei, Taiwan. She posted
a near-daily blog featuring stories and many photos of her duties
and sight-seeing. |
Work Hard, Play
Hard
LeClaire
enjoys trip of lifetime
University of
Southern California student Sarah LeClaire is a world traveler. The
granddaughter of Ramona and Ronald J. LeClaire of L’Anse, Sarah LeClaire
is also a summertime visitor to L’Anse. She is the daughter of Gary and
Ellen LeClaire of Ft. Worth, TX.
Last summer LeClaire completed an eight-week internship in Taipei,
Taiwan, through the University of Southern California’s Global Fellows
Program. LeClaire served as the executive assistant for the Director of
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Office of Trade and Investment.
Film explores
Finn war
The Finlandia
University Finnish American Heritage Center continues its 2009-10 Nordic
Film Series Thursday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with the Finnish
film, “Käsky.”
“Käsky,” with the English-language title of “Tears of April,” is
set in 1918 at the end of Finland’s civil war as the victorious
government-supported Whites are rounding up and killing the remaining
Social Democratic Reds, including the more than 2,000 women who fought
among their ranks.
KBOC welcomes,
informs international recruiters
Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa
Community College welcomed six international recruiters for a campus
visit on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009.
Miriam Moeller, Northern Michigan University’s International
Program Specialist, brought Doreen John from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
Martin Kanjadza from Lilongwe, Malawi; Tim Wright from Mexico City,
Mexico; Seemi Khosa from Islamabad, Pakistan; Claudia Sanchez from
Maracaibo, Venezuela; and Liisi Lembinen from Tartu, Estonia; to learn
about tribal colleges.
The recruiters have been attending a U.S.-based training program
for overseas educational advisors across America through the College
Board and Education USA and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
Environmental
education group honors Sherman
Mark Sherman, a Plum
Creek Resource Supervisor in the company’s L’Anse office, has been
honored with a volunteer service award from the Michigan Alliance for
Environmental & Outdoor Education (MAEOE).
The award highlights Sherman’s ongoing volunteer work and forestry
education outreach with elementary, middle and high school students, as
well as college students.
Portage Lake
Library upcoming programs
The Portage Lake
District Library is offering programs and events.
On Thursday, Nov. 12, FOLK, Friends of the Land of Keweenaw, will
hold its annual General Membership meeting in the community room. It
will begin at 6 p.m. with “Expectations of Thresholds,” a short film and
presentation by George Desort. Desort is an independent filmmaker who
recently released his film Fortunate Wilderness about the wolf and moose
study of Isle Royale. The General Membership meeting will begin at 7
p.m., and refreshments will be served. All are welcome to attend.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
|
SOME BEACH--Nils Stenvig
strikes his signature pose, beach ball in hand, at West Portage
Entry. Stenvig wrote the names of every beach he visited on the
ball, which now serves as a real “conversation-starter” in his
home. He undertook the challenge to see and learn more about the
region he loves--the UP. |
Stenvig's study
reveals best of UP beaches
Nils Stenvig had
years of study behind him, and a tougher road ahead that would likely
lead him away from his beloved UP.
With just one short stretch of summer in between--Stenvig hit the
beach!
Not just any beach, nor even a few beaches, but all 63 public
beaches along Lake Superior’s UP shoreline. This past summer, Stenvig
visited, photographed and rated each one, and is posting his results on
the web. By the New Year he hopes to divulge what he considers the best
of the beaches.
Pie, poetry
reading in Trout Creek
Two of “the best
things of life” combine when participants will enjoy pie ala poetry at
Trout Creek’s Autumn Poetry Reading.
The reading and eating event is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 13,
2009, 7:30 p.m. EST, at the Trout Creek Library, 121 Division Street,
Trout Creek.
Gallery 325
highlights Native American Art
Gallery 325 in
Baraga is seeking artwork by Native Americans for its November show
titled, “More Than Beads and Feathers.”
The showing is being held in honor of American Indian Heritage
Month in November and will showcase works by mostly local artists.
Organizers hope to draw in outside talent as well, working in a broad
range of media.
The only rule dictating this particular show is
lineage–contributing artists must be Native American–but “More Than
Beads and Feathers” will be open for viewing to all, starting with a
reception slated for Friday, Nov. 6 from 7-9 p.m.
SHS to plan
future
The Sacred Heart
School Commission along with principal Anne Schumer and pastor Fr. John
Longbucco are looking to the future of Sacred Heart School. A strategic
planning meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, at 6:30 p.m.
at the Sacred Heart Church Hall.
All those interested in maintaining Sacred Heart as an integral
part of the Baraga County community are invited to attend.
The leadership for the school encourages alumni, supporters,
concerned people, students, past teachers, and community leaders to
bring their ideas and concerns as they join in this night of planning.
Fr. John Longbucco would like the community to know that he sees a
bright future for Sacred Heart School. The guidance he was given by the
Most Reverend Alexander K Sample, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of
Marquette, was simple and clear: “convince the people of the parish and
the community that they have a diamond in the rough.”
Author Barr to
sign Page One: Whiteout
Finlandia
University’s North Wind Books will host a book signing event with author
Nancy Barr on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Barr will autograph copies of Page One: Whiteout, the third and
latest novel in her Robin Hamilton mystery series.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009

|
LAST APPEARANCE?--The
Lightkeepers gospel quartet made its final appearance, at least in
its current form, Sunday at Zion Lutheran Church. The group helped
the Marine Corps League begin its annual Toys For Tots benefit toy
drive. L-r, Garland Davis, Harlan Tollefson, Les Elmblad, Lowell
Hanshaw. Arline VanBuren joined the group on vocals and guitar,
and Bertha Hommer, right, accompanied on piano. |
Lightkeepers,
Marine Corps League open toy drive
The Marine Corps
League’s annual Toys For Tots benefit kicked off at Zion Lutheran Church
in Skanee last Sunday. The gospel quartet, Lightkeepers, entertained an
appreciative audience as the main attraction–in addition to the many
toys that were generated so local children in need won’t wake up on
Christmas morning without some toys.
The Oct. 25, 2009, performance was the seventh annual in which the
Lightkeepers and Marine Corps League co-sponsored the drive. The date of
the Skanee performance was moved from December to October because many
toys were already purchased and distributed in past years by the time
the December date rolled around.
- Arvon School 100 years
old
- Seeking photos,
memorabilia
This year will be
the one hundredth year Arvon Township School has served the community as
an educational institution. We will be having an open house soon and we
are looking for memorabilia in the form of photos, programs, and
projects about Arvon Township School. If you have an item that you would
like to share with our current students and community members contact
the school at 906-524-7336.
Portage library
host programs
The Portage Lake
District Library offers a variety of programs for all ages.
On Monday, Nov. 2, the made in Michigan award winning documentary
“Where Do the Children Play?” will be shown at 6:30 p.m. The film
addresses the decline of unstructured play by children, especially in
nature, and its potential consequences. There will be a community
discussion immediately following the screening, and everyone is invited
to participate.
On Saturday, Nov. 7, an introductory workshop to “Falun Dafa, a
Traditional Self-Cultivation Practice to Improve the Mind and Body” will
be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Even Start
celebrates progress, looks to future
Tribal Council
President Warren “Chris” Swartz chased a piece of dropped hot dog across
the rug. A toddler sought support from U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow’s
Regional Manager, Sheri Davie, by latching onto her leg.
Welcome to the Open House at Even Start in Baraga!
Located at 755 Michigan Ave., Even Start is the Keweenaw Bay Indian
Community’s Family Literacy program. It opened its doors to the public
Thursday, Oct. 8, 2009, to celebrate phase two of its Dream Catcher
Project, and to unveil its new family activity area.
The center is one-of-a-kind in Michigan, and one of only four
tribal Even Start programs in the U.S that receives federal funding. The
little yellow house in Baraga boasts a big mission: helping people
realize their dreams and goals through education, and compassion.
'Food for
Fines' at library
The L’Anse Area
Schools/Public Library and C.J. Sullivan Elementary Library are
introducing a “Food for Fines” program beginning Nov. 2, 2009.
The program is designed to collect food for the TV 6 Canathon and
will allow library patrons to have their fines forgiven.
Patrons with library fines may bring a non-perishable food item to
the library for each dollar’s worth of fine owed. The fine will be
forgiven or erased from the books.
Gallery 325
highlights Native American art
Gallery 325 in
Baraga is seeking artwork by Native Americans for its November show
titled, “More Than Beads and Feathers.”
The showing is being held in honor of American Indian Heritage
Month in November and will showcase works by mostly local artists.
Organizers hope to draw in outside talent as well, working in a broad
range of media.
Staging benefit
An evening of music
and comedy will be held at Finlandia’s Finnish American Heritage Center
on Nov. 13, 2009, at 7 p.m.
The night will feature local comedian Kathy Ptaszek and music
performed by Tom and Dave Hiltunen, Randy Wakeham and Tom Katalin.
All proceeds will benefit the International Study Abroad Program.
There will be a brief presentation about the study abroad program
preceding the show.
'Seeing and
Reading' exhibit Oct 26-Nov. 27
Seeing and Reading,
an exhibition of artwork by Philadelphia artist Gerard Brown will take
place at the Finlandia University Gallery, located in the Finnish
American Heritage Center, Hancock, from Oct. 26 to Nov. 27, 2009.
An opening reception for the artist will take place at the gallery
Thursday, Oct. 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. An artist talk will begin at 7:15
p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be
served.
Liimatainen
Center dedicated Oct. 27
The BHK Child
Development Board and the BHK Parent Council invite the public to the
dedication of the Rod Liimatainen Center at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27,
2009, at 700 Park Ave. in Houghton. The center is located just north of
Econo Foods.
The event will include a ceremony to officially rename BHK’s
Houghton Center in honor of Liimatainen, who led the founding of the
human-services organization in 1974 and served as its executive director
until June, 2008.

|
Upper Peninsula author
Joy Ibsen is pictured Aug. 24, 2009, holding her book “Songs of
Denmark” while sitting at the restored piano of famous late Danish
comedian/conductor Victor Borge in the Danish Immigrant Museum in
Elk Horn, IA. Photo by by Kevin Nelson, Danish Villages Voice
newspaper in Elk Horn, IA. |
Ibsen to sign
books at Bethany Lutheran Oct. 25
Author Joy Ibsen of
Trout Creek will give a talk and sign copies of her latest book
“Unafraid” on Sunday, Oct. 25 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Covington.
“Reformation Sunday is an apt time to discuss my book, ‘Unafraid,’
because it focuses on what the church, through sermons, really means in
people’s everyday lives,” said Ibsen. “That’s exactly what Martin Luther
was concerned about and in a way, reformation is a continual process.”
Ibsen’s presentation will begin during an 11 a.m. potluck brunch
after which Ibsen will sign “Unafraid” that has been acclaimed by
biblical scholars. The Bethany Sunday services begin at 10 a.m.
Fall play at
Finlandia running Oct. 22-25
The Finlandia
University fall play, directed by Melvin Kangas, will be performed Oct.
22 to 25, 2009, at the Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock.
The Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening performances, Oct. 22,
23, and 24, begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday matinee on October 25, begins
at 2:30 p.m.
The play, “Women of Niskavuori,” was written in 1936 by Hella
Wuolijoki. It is a well-known Finnish play and since the year 2000 has
been staged over 40 times in the country.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009

|
LOOKING BACK--When
Garnett Schafer reflects on her life, it’s a big job! She
celebrated her 104th birthday recently in SNU. She has lots of
support there. “I’ve never gotten so many hugs and kisses as I
have here,” she says, adding with her spry sense of humor, “I
didn’t know it was so hard to die!” |
At 104 Garnett
Schafer reflects on a long life
Garnett Schafer has
one piece of sage advice: “Don’t get old. Everything wears out. After
you get to be 100 that’s it! My hearing is terrible. My eyes are
terrible. But I can’t complain. I’ve had a good life.”
Schafer’s eyesight may not be the best but she still enjoys
watching a good round of golf on television. And she can see the ball
drop in the hole.
“I like golf. I never played but like to watch it on tv. . .until
all these youngsters came along!”
Schafer and friends celebrated her 104th birthday on Sunday, Sept.
13, 2009.
Covington
Artist Market closes season with Fall Festival, crafts
The Community
Women’s Group will host a Fall Festival and Craft Show to close out this
year’s business season of the UP Made Artist Market in Covington on
Saturday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
The non-profit Community Women’s Group supports artists in the
Upper Peninsula via the market place and art gallery housed in the
Historic Covington School.
First flu
vaccine now at health department
Western U.P. Health
Department announces that it has received a small, first shipment of the
new H1N1 influenza vaccine. This first vaccine is in the form of a nasal
spray and can be used in healthy people 2-49 years of age who are not
pregnant. It is expected that injectable H1N1 vaccine will begin to
arrive in the next week or two.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has
recommended that the following groups receive vaccine first: pregnant
women, household contacts of infants under 6 months of age, children and
young adults age 6 months to 24 years, adults 25-64 years with certain
health conditions, and healthcare/emergency services personnel. Although
supplies of vaccine will be limited at first, the CDC expects that very
quickly, supplies will be adequate to vaccinate everyone who would like
to be vaccinated.
Portage Library
hosts Suzuki event Oct 20
The Portage Lake
District Library will host a Suzuki stringed instrument performance for
children and their parents on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 10:15 -11 a.m.
Instructors from the Copper Country Suzuki Association will present
“Big Violins for Little People,” a musical performance on viola
and cello. They will also talk about what makes these big instruments so
fun for little people.
'Women of
Niskavuori' Finlandia performances
Four performances of
the Finlandia University fall play, directed by Melvin Kangas, will take
place Oct. 22 to 25, 2009, at the Finnish American Heritage Center,
Hancock.
The Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening performances, Oct. 22,
23, and 24, begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday matinee begins at 2:30 p.m.
The play, “Women of Niskavuori,” was written in 1936 by Hella
Wuolijoki. It is a well-known Finnish play and since the year 2000 has
been staged over 40 times in the country.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009

|
TREASURES--Everything
from garage sale items to antique treasures are available at Great
Lakes Peddler, Angela and Craig Frank’s new consignment shop. They
are willing to sell just about anything in good condition. The
seller sets the price and keeps 70 percent and the Franks keep 30
percent. The shop is on Dogpatch Road. |
Franks' shop
features antiques to rummage
Angela and Craig
Frank have opened the “Great Lakes Peddler”, a consignment shop
featuring a fascinating array of items old and new. It’s the latest of
the busy family’s independent business operations. Craig is real estate
agent and Angela runs Keweenaw Kids Licensed Child Care out of their
home. The Franks are Amway distributors and Craig does bear hunt
guiding.
The consignment shop is just another way the Franks are teaching
their daughters about running a business. Sierra, 11, and Lindsey, 9,
are learning the art of buying and selling, just like they do when the
Amway orders come in and go out. The consignment shop is a new approach
the Franks are eager to make a “go” of.
Saari wins
award
Oreste Chiantello
was a member of the WUPPDR and Michigan Works Boards. In his memory,
both boards established the Oreste “Chip” Chiantello Public Service
Award for a deserving individual from the Western UP who displays the
qualities of service, dedication and leadership.
The Oreste Chiantello Award recipient for 2009 is Jim Saari, former
Executive Director for Michigan Works in Ironwood. The Western UP
Planning & Development Region and Western UP Michigan Works present the
award each year.
'Karen & Karen'
at Gallery 523
Gallery 325 in
Baraga will feature “The Karen & Karen Show” highlighting the artwork of
Karen Runvik and Karen Milszeski. Both artists are board members of the
gallery and strong supporters of the arts.
A reception for the artists is set for Friday, Oct. 9, 2009, from
7-9 p.m. at the gallery. Gallery 325 is located at Marilyn Dammann Art
Center, at 315 McGillan Street in Baraga. Dammann was a life-long artist
and one of the founding members of Gallery 325. Before she died she made
arrangements to leave her house to the organization for its new gallery.
Mars, Swanson
win UP writing award
L’Anse High School
students Sarah Mars and Autumn Swanson were among winners of the annual
Upper Peninsula Writers’ Association Annual Writing Contest announced at
the group’s Sept. 26, 2009, annual fall conference in Munising.
The contest notes the works of both adults and youth from across
the UP for their submissions of all styles of writing.
Mars placed second and Swanson third in the Youth Poetry-Division 3
competition.
Students trek
to Mt. Arvon
On Sept. 26, 2009,
the fourth grades from C.J. Sullivan Elementary School made their annual
climb to the summit of Mt. Arvon. This tradition marks the beginning
studies of the geography of Michigan in the fourth grade curriculum.
The group went on to Lightfoot Bay, owned by the Keweenaw Land
Trust and met with Pat Toczydlowski, project specialist, for the
Keweenaw Land Trust.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
| BIEL’S WHEELS--Adam Biel
travels as light as possible, but his bike still weighs about 130
pounds fully loaded. He covers 75-100 miles in an eight to 12-hour
day of riding. |
Biel pedaling
25,000 miles in Adventure for Autism
Adam Biel is a man
with a mission. Some might call it impossible. He prefers, “Adventure
for Autism.”
Biel is 4,500 miles into a 25,000 mile bike ride to raise funds for
research. Starting out in Anchorage, AK, on June 26, he plans to pedal
to South America with stops along the way in Halifax, Nova Scotia and
Key West, FL.
With a lot of luck, he’ll reach his final destination in about two
years.
CJ fifth
graders explore different forest ecosystems
Last week fifth
graders from C.J. Sullivan Elementary School conducted plot studies in
their school forest and the Ottawa National Forest to compare
biodiversity. Fifty-seven students participated in the event, which
spanned over three days. The studies allowed students to make
comparisons between two different Michigan ecosystems, a hardwood forest
and a jack pine forest.
“Students gained knowledge about the area in which we live, and in
so doing, begin to understand that as citizens they need to take an
active role in its care,” said science teacher Helen Stenvig.
Announce
preschool conference
The Upper Peninsula
Association for the Education of Young Children announces their 8th
annual conference in Marquette.
Jane Kitson will be the featured speaker at the annual UPAEYC
Conference to be held at Northern Michigan University on Saturday, Oct.
10, 2009. The conference is from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. in the Don H.
Bottum University Center. A registration fee of $50 per person or $40
for current UPAEYC members includes lunch. Kitson, a.k.a “Mother Goose”,
will be presenting “Leap Into Literacy” in a user-friendly, fast paced
format that is practical and fun.
Community Arts
Center program
The Community Arts
Center will host a series of three educational presentations about
sustainability and green building.
The first of the series will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2009, at
7 p.m. in the Community Training Room (Room 323) at the Jutila Center
for Global Design and Business at Finlandia University.
MTU offering
program for UP school teachers
Michigan Tech has
received nearly $200,000 from the Michigan Department of Education for a
professional development program for physics and chemistry teachers. The
initiative is funded by the Improving Teacher Quality Grant, which
covers schools throughout the state, including all schools in the Upper
Peninsula.
The project focuses on improving teaching and learning
through enhanced classroom inquiry and technology. Teachers of grades
5-12 are eligible to participate.
The deadline for applying is Friday, Oct. 2, 2009.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009

|
Cara DeForge, left, and
Lisa Harden are now on the job at Baraga Area Schools. Harden is a
2004 Baraga High School graduate and is teaching kindergarten.
DeForge, of South Range teaches advanced biology, biology and
chemistry. |
Harden, DeForge
join staff at Baraga Schools
Baraga has two new
teachers on staff–one a familiar face and the other new to the district.
Baraga High School graduate Lisa Harden joins the early elementary
staff at the Pelkie Learning Center. She is teaching kindergarten.
Cara DeForge joins the Baraga staff to fill in for Ben Johnston in
the high school science department. Johnston is a member of the National
Guard and he will be deployed.
Five teachers
new at L'Anse Schools
Five new faces are
among those gracing the halls of the L’Anse school district this year.
Included are two new high school teachers, one middle school and two
elementary staff members.
Robert Bohlsen and Amanda Rinkinen are teaching industrial
education classes and ninth grade English respectively. Kurt Anderson is
a new middle school science teacher. Alissa DuPuis and Elizabeth Lloyd
have joined the district as second grade and Title I teachers
respectively.
Explain 'Great
Start'
The Copper Country
League of Women Voters will welcome Emily Krznarich, Director of the
Copper Country Great Start Collaboration, on Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at
7 p.m. at the Portage Lake District Library. She will speak about the
concerns of Michigan budget cuts and the affect on families in this
area.
Krznarich has been involved in special education for her
professional life. Her recent efforts have brought her to develop the
Copper Country Great Start Collaborative. The Collaborative supports
five areas: health needs (physical, social, and emotional), early
childhood care, family and parenting support, economic security, and
safety.
Register Girl
Scouts at C.J. on Sept. 25
Girl Scouts of the
Northwestern Great Lakes, Inc. invites all girls in grades K – 12 to
register for a year of fun and discovery. A Mardi Gras themed
registration event will take place on Friday, Sept. 25 from 5:30–7 p.m.
at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School Cafetorium. Girls who attend must be
accompanied by an adult.
Girl Scouting is the world’s preeminent organization dedicated
solely to girls where, in an accepting and nurturing environment, girls
build skills for success in the real world. In partnership with
committed adults, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their
lives.
Society Open
House honored 4-H Leaders
The Covington
Township Historical Society held it’s annual Fall Open House on Sunday,
Sept. 20, 2009, at the museum. Each year the society honors one group of
citizens in the community for their hard work in their particular
organization.
This year the society honored all 4-H Leaders, past and present
from the Watton-Covington area.
Gail Tarvainen, long time 4-H Leader in the area, introduced guest
speaker, Bertha Rogers from the Baraga County, Michigan Extension
Office. Lowella Eskel, another long time leader, assisted Rogers with
the presentation.
Iron Industry
Museum open house Oct. 3
The Michigan Iron
Industry Museum will raise the curtain on its new high-definition video
“Iron Spirits” at a fall Open House on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 1-4 p.m.
The public premiere of the large screen program will be shown at 1:30,
2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Seasonal refreshments will also be served.
According to scriptwriter Frida Waara, the new program will offer
universal appeal for all age groups, replacing a 20 year-old slide show
that has served more than one quarter million visitors. “As an
underlying theme, I wanted to capture the indomitable spirit and
enterprise of both managers and miners that marked their ongoing
struggle in a challenging natural environment,” she said.
'Suomi
Conference' at St. Marks, Marquette
The fall word and
song festival of the Michigan area will be combined with the national
annual meeting of Suomi Conference on Sunday, Sept. 27. It will be held
at St. Marks Lutheran Church at 1318 Presque Isle Ave. in Marquette,
Pastor Lee Niemi is chairman.
The event will begin at 10 a.m. as Pastor Antti Lepisto of Duluth,
and the president of Suomi Conference, will preach at the Sunday morning
service at St. Marks. Pauline Kiltinen will serve as the organist.
Michigan Oral
History conference at NMU
The Michigan Oral
History Association in partnership with Northern Michigan University (NMU)
will sponsor the Oral History for Michiganians 2009 Conference in
Marquette, Sept. 25-26, 2009.
For information about the program in the Mead Auditorium on campus
and registration contact: MOHA, 5580 West State Road, Lansing, MI
48906-9325; phone 517-321-1746; email
gwiskemann@arq.net
Pre-registration by Sept. 21 assures food services.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009

| NEW MINISTER--Pamela Long
is the new Licensed Lay Minister for Holy Cross Lutheran church in
Baraga. Long was installed Aug. 30, and has been serving the
church since the start of August as its first minister in three
years. Visiting ministers and church members had been conducting
services at Holy Cross Lutheran. |
Holy Cross
Lutheran welcomes Pamela Long, LLM
Pamela Long, LLM has
been well served by her faith throughout her life. Now she’s giving back
as the new Licensed Lay Minister for Holy Cross Lutheran Church in
Baraga.
Long was installed in a special service at the church Aug. 30,
2009. She’s been happily ministering since to a congregation that has
been without a pastor of its own for three years.
“She walked in, and she was like a breath of fresh air,” said Holy
Cross Lutheran Church council member Pat Westman. “It was like she was
an instant fit.”
KBIC Even Start
receives funding
Keweenaw Bay Indian
Community’s Even Start program is one of four Family Literacy Programs
nationwide to be selected for federal funding. KBIC’s program was
awarded $219,984 for fiscal 2009.
Other tribal organizations receiving funding were Salt river
Pima-Maricopa Community Schools in Arizona, San Pasqual Band of Kumeyaay
Indians, California, and Local Indians For Education, Inc. of
California. A total of nearly $775,000 was awarded.
'UP Equifest'
horse fair at Escanaba
The sixth annual UP
Equifest Horse Fair will be returning to the Upper Peninsula State
Fairgrounds in Escanaba on Sept. 25, 26 and 27, 2009. This is a venue
created to educate and entertain horse lovers of all breeds and
disciplines.
The second annual Upper Peninsula Championship Horse Show will
kick-off Saturday and Sunday mornings with English and western classes.
Saturday evening will feature the popular speed games. This is an
invitational show. All exhibitors must qualify to show through UP horse
shows, UP county fair horse shows, or the UP State Fair horse shows.....
Religion
classes for Catholic youth begin
Faith formation
classes, also known as religion classes, for Catholic students in Baraga
County will be starting on Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. The first class
will be held at Sacred Heart Church in L’Anse for all students and
parents.
Classes are held each Wednesday night throughout the school year
for students in grades K-12 at Sacred Heart School from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
“Wednesday night classes have continued to work out very well,” noted
Christy Miron, Faith Formation Coordinator for the parishes of Sacred
Heart of Jesus, St. Ann, and Most Holy Name of Jesus. “The schools have
been making an effort to not schedule events on Wednesday evening.”
- Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Final fall
for historic L'Anse tree
|
On Tuesday Sept. 2, 2009,
a Marquette tree removal company downed one of the largest
cottonwood trees in the region. The tree was over 100 years old
and served as a aid to navigation. It stood about 90 feet tall in
front of John Schmidt's home on Front Street and Bendry, in
L’Anse. Schmidt said the giant tree has become a hazard to his
home and surrounding property, and has caused extensive damage in
recent years. |
'Finn Fun Day'
comes to Ishpeming Hall Sept. 19
The first “Finn Fun
Day” in the Upper Peninsula is planned for Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, at
the Ishpeming Township Hall, West US Hwy 41, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“Finn Fun Day” is the new version of the 14th annual League of
Finnish-American Societies September picnic, and will last all day with
many more activities.
Randy Seppanen and Wilho Kilpela will take part in the event.
Food, fun and short workshops will fill the day, ending with
dancing in the late afternoon. Coffee and coffee bread will be available
all day long, with Lawry’s pasties and cudighis, and “Taste of Chicago”
hot dogs, toasted almonds and other foods and beverages for sale.
Online
unemployment claim system growing
Since becoming
available earlier this year, use of the state’s online system for
claiming unemployment benefits has more than tripled and continues to
grow in popularity.
“Over the past five months, usage of our MARVIN online system has
grown from 4.5 percent of weekly certifications in early March to 15.5
percent for the week ending Aug. 22,” Stephen Geskey, director of the
state’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) reported Wednesday, Aug. 26.
Individuals claiming unemployment benefits are required to certify
with UIA’s MARVIN (Michigan’s Automated Response Voice Interactive
Network) system every other week in order to receive their biweekly
unemployment benefit payment. Through MARVIN, workers certify that they
are unemployed and meet the program’s eligibility requirements. They
also report any earnings they may have received.
Santti a
graduate
Central Michigan
University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, has released its list of May 2009
graduates. Victoria Santti of Baraga earned a Bachelor of Sciences
degree in education.
Quilts on
display in Caspian
Quilts of any size,
quilted garments and miscellaneous, al completed and non-commercial, are
being sought from this area for display or sale at the biennial Carrie
Jacobs-Bond Quilt Show and sale, Sept. 19-20, 2009, at the Iron County
Museum Complex, Caspian.
Limited to 300 articles, each must be pre-registered with registrar
Bonnie Beck, 1202 Gibbs City Road, Iron River, MI, 49935. Registration
forms are available through quilt guilds, fabric shops or SASE to Beck
or phone her at 906-265-3849. All entries will vie for viewers’ choice
ribbon.
Michigan
Commission for the Blind meets on Sept. 18 in Marquette
The Michigan
Commission for the Blind (MCB) will hold its regular board meeting on
Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Marquette at The
Landmark Inn, 230 N. Front Street. The meeting is open to the public and
will be of interest to people who are blind or visually impaired, their
family members and friends, and anyone interested in learning more about
the state and federally funded services provided throughout the state by
the Michigan Commission for the Blind.
Bereavement
coalition meeting in Hancock, Tuesday, Sept. 15
The ninth annual
meeting of the Community Coalition on Grief and Bereavement will be held
on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009, at 3:30 p.m. at the Gloria Dei Lutheran
Church, Quincy St. West Hancock. All interested people are welcome to
attend. The coalition’s mission is to provide grief education, support
and referrals to the people of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw and Ontonagon
Counties.
To honor top
recycler Oct. 7
The Upper Peninsula
Recycling Coalition (UPRC) is looking for nominations for the annual
“Recycler of the Year Award”. Nominations for categories for both
individual and organization are being accepted.
The “Recycler of the Year Award” recognizes outstanding
achievements in resource recovery in the Upper Peninsula.
The UPRC wishes to recognize organizations, businesses, and
individuals for innovative recycling, composting. and waste reduction
programs throughout the UP.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009

|
L’ANSE WATERFRONT
CONCERT--Music lovers enjoyed a beautiful summer evening at the
L’Anse Waterfront Park last Thursday. The traditional string band,
Greenstone, entertained. One last concert has been added--this
Thursday, Sept. 3, at 7 p.m. Wolfgang will do a classic rock
benefit show. All donations will support the concert series. |
Elo, Tapiola
welcome back their grocery stores
Elo and Tapiola have
gotten their grocery stores back, and the customers couldn’t be happier.
The former Pheiffer’s Corner in Elo was closed 12 years ago. It
re-opened July 23 as the new Kurt’s Korner store. After an 18-month
hiatus, the door at Karvakko’s Market in Tapiola swung open once again
on Aug. 3.
Both towns lie roughly 20 miles from the next nearest grocery cart,
and local shopping has been sorely missed. The new store owners have
brought fresh ideas into play while continuing with the dependable
service that makes them both valued members of their communities.
Gallery showing
landscape photos
The Finlandia
University Reflection Gallery will host an exhibit of photography by
artist Brian Parmeter from Aug. 28 to Sept. 23, 2009.
An opening reception and artist talk will take place Thursday,
Sept. 3, from 1 to 2 p.m., at the Reflection Gallery. The reception is
open to the public and all are welcome. The Reflection Gallery is
located on the second level of Finlandia’s Jutila Center campus.
Refreshments will be served.
Cluster meeting
in L'Anse, Sept 12
The Fall Cluster 2
meeting for Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (WELCA)
will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, at United Lutheran Church in
L’Anse.
Registration starts at 9 a.m. with morning coffee. The meeting and
program start at 9:30 a.m. and ends with lunch at noon. A cost of $5
covers material and lunch. The program includes Bible study, special
music, speaker, a representative from the women’s synodical unit, and
will end with a communion service.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009

| GRAND CHAMPION MARKET
STEER--a 1,290 pound Simi-Angus, raised by Kylee Kristo, was
purchased by Selkey’s Manufacturing, Baraga. |
Wolfgang
benefit for concert series
The L’Anse
Waterfront Concert Series is extended an additional week. The Wolfgang
classic rock band will be back to perform a benefit concert on Thursday,
Sept. 3, 2009, at 7 p.m.
Wolfgang opened the summer concerts playing at the L’Anse band
shell on Friday night, June 12, in conjunction with the Baraga County
Lake Trout Festival. The regular Thursday night summer series began
three weeks later and was scheduled to conclude this Thursday, Aug. 27,
with the Greenstone string band at 7 p.m.
State retirees
meet
The Upper Peninsula
Chapter #16 of the State Employee Retirees Association will hold its
fall luncheon Monday, Sept. 14, 2009 at noon at the Highland Golf Club
which is located seven miles west of Escanaba on US 2 and Hwy. 41.
Lisa Keeler from Express Scripts will be there. Also invited are
Arva Overton from BC/BS and Lisa Eggert of Delta Dental.
Senior expo
Sept 17 as Esky
The annual UP Senior
Citizen’s Convention and Expo will be Thursday, Sept. 17 from 9:30 a.m.
until 3 p.m. (EDT) in the Ruth Butler Exhibition Building at the UP
State Fairgrounds in Escanaba. This year the theme is “Mardi Gras” and
organizers encourage everyone to attend dressed for the occasion.
The convention is being co-sponsored by Marquette General Health
Systems and the UP Area Agency on Aging/UPCAP, the annual coordinator of
the event.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Survivors
gather at Bay Cliff
Bay Cliff Health
Camp is offering its innovative health and wellness retreat for polio
survivors once again this Fall. The fourth annual retreat will take
place Sept. 14-19, 2009 in Big Bay.
The program goes one step beyond rehabilitation by focusing on
improving participants’ overall health and quality of life with ongoing
health and wellness. Educational sessions, taught by volunteer health
care professionals, will assist polio survivors in learning more about
Post Polio Syndrome and leading a healthier lifestyle.

| YOUTH ADVISORY
COMMITTEE--These six members of the Baraga County Community
Foundation Youth Advisory Committee met with fellow YAC members
from all over the country recently. The group traveled to Michigan
State University for the annual gathering that energizes youth to
make their home communities better places. L-r, Ariel Gougeon,
Jessi DesRochers, Michael Jones (YAC President), Jessica Messer,
Brittany Kemppainen and Cassie Dix. |
Youth hone
leadership skills
Six members of the
Baraga County Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) have
recently returned from Michigan State University. They gathered with
other YAC’s from across the nation at the annual Youth Grantmakers
Summer Leadership Conference.
The 2009 conference theme was “A Second Look: Seeing Challenges as
Opportunities.” Sessions and speakers focused on how YACs can turn these
difficult economic times into new opportunities through grantmaking and
community service projects.
Dowler receives
large Pepsico scholarship
Baraga High School
graduate Geleah Dowler has been awarded a major scholarship through her
step-father Darin Walendowski’s employer, Frito Lay in
Atlantic Mine. Dowler won a Pepsico scholarship which will provide
$6,000 per year for three years toward her college costs. Pepsico
employees’ children nationwide can apply for the highly competitive
scholarships.
Dowler is the daughter of Porter and Becky Dowler, and Darin and
Bonny Walendowski.
Arvon Twp
School parent conferences scheduled Aug. 24-26
Arvon Township
School staff will participate in professional development and hold
parent conferences on Aug. 24-26, 2009.
Parents are invited to call and schedule a time to meet with
teachers to answer questions and establish individual student goals for
the year.
On Tuesday, Sept. 8 we will begin our regular school year with a
full day of instruction. Parents and community members are encouraged to
join us at 8 a.m. for the flag raising.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
| EARLY ATHLETES–Merva
Menard, at far right, poses for a girls’ team photo in the 1920’s.
Menard’s scrapbook included happy accounts of many outdoor
activities as well, including sleigh rides, picnics and swimming. |
Schoolgirl's
scrapbook historic treasure trove
Merva Menard’s
“School-Girl Days” scrapbook is a history lesson with a heart.
The book was given to Menard in 1923, and she graduated from L’Anse
High School in 1925. In between she filled its pages to overflowing with
photos, dance cards, neatly jotted remarks and other treasures from days
now long gone by:
“My second year, my favorite class is English II taught by Mr.
MacKay. History is my next favorite. Mr. Carlyon thinks I’m a pest I
guess. He’s only changed my seat twice. But I seem to have too much to
say for my own good. But that’s a Frenchman all over!”
Fish makes
dean's list
Grand Valley State
University announced the names of students who were placed on the dean’s
list for the Winter 2009 semester. The list includes those students who
have maintained a 3.5 grade point average and been enrolled in a minimum
of 12 credits. The honor is noted on the students’ official records.
Elisha Fish of L’Anse was named to the list.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009

|
The annual Seavoy family
reunion was held at Jeanne and Scott Seavoy’s house on Huron Bay
on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2009. Guests numbering near 90 came from the
L’Anse area, other parts of Michigan and other states including
Florida, Missouri, Alabama, Minnesota and Arizona. The reunion has
been an annual event for nearly 15 years now. Photo supplied by
family member Tom Waring of Arizona. |
Six candidates
vying for Baraga County Fair queen
- Six girls are competing for
Baraga County Fair queen. They were set to be interviewed by the
judges on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the Baraga Lakeside Inn.
“Thanks to Sue Brunet of the Lakeside for making the evening
special for the girls. She donated her time and her staff supplied
appetizers,” queen contest organizer Brenda Harkonen said.
On Friday, Aug. 7 the candidates will perform their talent acts at
the fairgrounds at 3 p.m.
Cassandra Evans--of
L’Anse is the daughter of Sonya and Bill Evans.
-
Amber Heikkinen--of Nisula is
the daughter of Carrie Sikkila and Kevin Heikkinen.
-
Samantha Koski--of L’Anse is the daughter of Darryl and Lynn Koski.
-
Rebecca Augustine--of
L’Anse is the daughter of Henry and Laura Augustine.
-
Joslyn Hatfield--of L’Anse is the daughter of Chris and Eva
Marie Hatfield.
-
Lara Lindlbauer-- Of
L’Anse is the daughter of Daniel and Joella Lindlbauer.
Mission United
offers sports themed VBS
Mission United
Lutheran Church is offering “Mega Sports Camp” Vacation Bible School for
kids, from Monday, Aug. 10 through 14, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Mission United in Pelkie is offering the camp for kids age 3
through 6th grade. “We want to give kids the chance to learn more about
sports, discover character-building concepts, and have a whole lot of
fun,” says Pastor John Autio.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
|
ON THE JOB--Fr. Janusz
Romanek is serving as associate pastor for Sacred Heart, St. Ann’s
and Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic churches in L’Anse, Baraga
and Assinins. |
Polish priest
comes home to Baraga County
Fr. Janusz Romanek
of Poland is the new associate pastor for Sacred Heart, St. Ann’s and
Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic churches. A big fan of hunting, fishing
and small-town living, Romanek is finding his new assignment starting
July 1, 2009, a near-perfect fit.
The Catholic Diocese in Marquette assigns a percentage of its
priests to new parishes each year. Fr. John Longbucco is now serving as
the new pastor for the three churches in L’Anse, Baraga and Assinins,
respectively. He resides at Sacred Heart’s rectory in L’Anse.
Romanek is based at the rectory at St. Anne’s in Baraga. The
priests rotate their mass schedules so both serve all three churches,
and are assisted in their duties by deacons John Cadeau and Robert
Wahmhoff.
Harju earns CMU
honors
Central Michigan
University announces its May, 2009, spring semester honor students who
earned a 3.5 and higher grade point average. From L’Anse, Amanda Lynn
Harju, freshman.
Author Ibsen
signing new book Thursday in Hancock
Author Joy Ibsen of
Trout Creek will sign her latest book “Unafraid” from 4-5 p.m. on
Thursday, July 30, 2009, at North Wind Books in Hancock.
“Unafraid” is co-authored by Ibsen and her late father Rev. Harald
Ibsen, a Danish American minister. Ibsen rescued her father’s sermon
notes from an old filing cabinet.
Trout Creek
fest coming Aug. 8
Trout Creek’s annual
Pond Fest is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8, 2009, with the flag raising
by the American Legion Post 494 at 10:30 a.m. The planning committee
extends an invitation to “come on down” and enjoy a day of music,
crafts, food and “reunionating” at Abbott Fox Park on M-28 in Trout
Creek. The Trout Creek High School Class of ’59 will be celebrating its
50-year reunion.
The day’s music begins with Mike Keating of Bessemer offering a
variety of musical entertainment. At 2 p.m. the featured musicians will
be the Bill Hassey Orchestra of Eagle River, WI, presenting popular
dance music including swing, polka, and waltz.
Askel family
reunites
On July 11,
2009, the Andrew and Selma Heikkinen Family Reunion was held where it
all started in 1907--on a small farm on Askel Hill.
The Matriarch of the family, Asta Heikkinen, was honored as she
celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by 200 family members.
Heikkinen descendants who gathered for the reunion traveled from as
far away as Alaska, Washington State, Texas, Missouri, Pennsylvania and
even Japan. Others had a shorter drive, convening at the Hill from
Michigan locations.
Seeking board
candidates
The Baraga County
Department of Human Services agency is seeking candidates for the state
appointee position on the local Human Services Board.
The three-member board represents the community and serves the
local DHS office in an advisory capacity. Two members are appointed by
the county Board of Commissioners; the third member is appointed by the
state DHS Director.
Serving on the board gives county residents an opportunity to
provide DHS with local input. The local DHS office director serves as
secretary to the board during its monthly meetings when state and local
issues related to the department’s mission are discussed and acted upon.
Interested candidates should contact Louisa Wills, Director, Baraga
County DHS, at 108 Main Street, Baraga, MI 49908. The deadline for
applications is Aug. 15, 2009.
Driver safety
Aug. 5-6
In an effort to help
older drivers brush up on their driving skills, the Retired & Senior
Volunteer Program (RSVP) is sponsoring the AARP Driver Safety Program.
The AARP Driver Safety Program is the Nation’s first curriculum
designed specifically for drivers age 50 and over. This eight-hour,
two-day course includes use of a workbook, video presentations, and
active group discussions. There are no tests.
Participants can expect to learn about current rules of the road,
how to operate a vehicle more safely, and how to adjust for common
age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time. The local
class will be taught by Don Balmer, an AARP volunteer and retired high
school driving instructor.
Randolph to
read July 30
Thursday, July 30,
2009, from 10 to 11 a.m., Finlandia University’s North Wind Books will
host a children’s event with Finnish educator Kaisa Randolph.
Randolph, a Finnish national, will read several children’s books
with Finnish themes and engage the children in an activity related to
the books.
Refreshments will be served. North Wind Books is located at 437
Quincy St., downtown Hancock. For information, call 487-7217.
Ovist joins
North Country Agency
Gene Ovist is the
newest member of the team of real estate professionals at CENTURY 21
North Country Agency. As part of the CENTURY 21 System, he is able to
offer buyer and seller representation and can offer the benefits of
programs like CENTURY 21 Connections, which can help with everything
from qualifying for a mortgage to saving on moving costs.
“We are very proud to have Gene join our team of professional
REALTORS® which led the Keweenaw MLS in total sales again in 2008 and
continues to lead in 2009”, said Dave Jukuri, Broker.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
| LIKES DOGS--Fr. John
Longbucco celebrated his new pastoral assignment by acquiring a
future hunting partner, 15-week-old “Rocco.” Fr. John and pup are
happily settling into their new community. |
Catholic
churches welcome priests to the fold
New pastoral
assignments have brought a changing of the guard to Catholic churches in
L’Anse, Baraga and Assinins.
The Diocese of Marquette has announced Fr. John Longbucco will
serve as new pastor for Sacred Heart in L’Anse, St. Ann’s in Baraga and
Most Holy Name of Jesus Church in Assinins. Fr. Janusz Romanek will be
associate pastor. The changes became effective July 1, 2009.
The former pastor and associate pastor for the three churches have
also received new assignments in the UP. Fr. George Augustin is now
serving as pastor of Resurrection Parish in Hancock and St. Francis of
Assisi Mission in Dollar Bay.
Former associate pastor Fr. George Maki is now associate pastor at
Sacred Heart Parish in Ewen, St. Ann Mission in Bergland and Immaculate
Conception Parish in Watersmeet. Augustin, Maki, Longbucco and Romanek
were among a total of 13 priests reassigned by the diocese.
Lazzari
receives scholarship
Alpha Mu Tau
Fraternity announced that Michael Lazzari of Watton will be receiving an
Education & Research Scholarship from American Society for Clinical
Laboratory Science on Thursday, July 23, 2009, at the Awards Ceremony of
the annual meeting in Chicago, IL. Lazzari is a student at A. T. Still
University in the study of clinical laboratory science.
American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) serves as
an advocate for the value and the role of the clinical laboratory
science professional ensuring safe, effective, efficient, equitable, and
patient centered health care. For further information about ASCLS
consult the www.ascls.org website.
Skanee Ravine
River Cemetery clean-up
On Monday morning,
July 13 members of the L’Anse High School International Travel Club went
to the Old Skanee Ravine River Cemetery. This trip, the club members
spent their time cleaning brush and rotten wood, off of the historical
site.
Veteran workers, Nicole Delene and Rebecca Augustine, along with
their teacher/leader, Laura Augustine, and new worker, Jessica Nagele,
climbed to the south side of the hill with rakes, clippers and gloves in
hands. With a little help from Ray Prill and his power saw, they
successfully loaded ‘their’ trailer several times and then unloaded it,
at the site of the rapidly growing cemetery brush pile.
Ottawa Program
Aug. 11
The Ottawa National
Forest is pleased to announce a program on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2009, at
the Ottawa Visitor Center, US 2 and Hwy.45, Watersmeet, MI. Guest
speaker Dr. Lee Frelich will be presenting, “Wind, Fire and Deer in
Northern Hardwood-Hemlock Forests,” beginning at 7 p.m. (CST) and will
be available to answer questions after the program.
Frelich is a recognized expert in Forest Ecology, and particularly
the ecology of hardwood-hemlock forests of the Upper Great Lakes Region
Creating
Confident Caregivers program for family members
Creating Confident
Caregivers is a new program in select regions of Michigan, for family
caregivers of persons with dementia and/or memory loss.
Highlighting the Savvy Caregiver training program, Creating
Confident Caregivers is a six-session program led by trained dementia
care specialists. This university tested program provides participants
with information, skills and attitudes to manage stress and increase
their effectiveness as a Caregiver.
Creating Confident Caregivers is now available in the L’Anse/Baraga
area through a federal grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging to
the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging, the U.P. Area Agency on
Aging/UPCAP and the Alger County Commission on Aging.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009

|
JUST DESSERTS--Brothers
Sam, left, and Trevor Spruce enjoy pie and ice cream at the Zion
Lutheran Church Pie Social held Sunday afternoon in Skanee.
|
Skanee hopping
with pie social, quilt show
Traffic was heavy in
Skanee Sunday thanks to the Zion Lutheran Church Pie Social and Arvon
Township Historical Society Quilt Show.
The events proved a fine blend of entertainment on a sun-washed
afternoon. The Quilt Show commenced at noon at the historic
parsonage-museum. At Zion Lutheran Church across the street workers
began serving up slabs of homemade pie and ice cream at 1. Events ended
at 4 p.m.
FSU honors
Duerkop
Sarah Duerkop
received a certificate for High Academic Achievement from Ferris State
University in Big Rapids, MI. The achievement is from Spring, 2009.
Duerkop, a graduate of Baraga High School, is attending Ferris pursuing
a degree in dental hygiene.
Caregiver
program for family members
Creating Confident
Caregivers is a new program in select regions of Michigan, for family
caregivers of persons with dementia and/or memory loss.
Highlighting the Savvy Caregiver training program, Creating
Confident Caregivers is a six-session program led by trained dementia
care specialists. This university tested program provides participants
with information, skills and attitudes to manage stress and increase
their effectiveness as a Caregiver.
Many enjoy
Marth Memorial Family Fun Run
Weather conditions
couldn’t have been better for this year’s annual Denise Marth Memorial
Family Fun Run. A large number of athletes participated in both the run
along Bayshore Drive. Others took things a little slower with a casual
walk.
This marked the fourth time for the event, sponsored by the Baraga
County Community Foundation (BCCF). According to BCCF Director Gordette
Leutz, individuals were encouraged to run, walk, bike, skateboard or
Roller Blade the course.
Giudicelli
honored
Anthony Giudicelli
has been named to the Dean’s List in the Indiana University College of
Arts and Sciences for the Spring semester of 2009, in recognition of
outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility for the Dean’s List is
reserved for those students who complete at least 12 graded credit hours
in a single semester, earning at least a 3.70 GPA.
He is the son of Ange and Ruth Guidicelli of L’Anse.
Cancer Center
hosts support meetings
The Marquette
General Cancer Center will be hosting a “Living with Cancer” support
group on July 23 and Aug. 20. The group will meet from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in
the Lombardi Room at Marquette General Hospital, which is located on the
ground floor near the cafeteria.
Videoconferencing will be provided to Portage Health in the Portage
Health Conference Center.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Non-Alzheimer
dementia education
|
A June 30 stop in L’Anse
was the first of a three-day swing by Dr. Shelly Weaverdyck
(center) who offered a training session on how to recognize and
accommodate cognitive changes in persons as they age. The event
drew quite a large crowd to the LA’nse High School cafetorium.
Weaverdyck is the director of the Alzheimer’s Education and
Reasearch Program at Eastern Michigan University. Her Western UP
tour included stops in Ontonagon on July 1 and Hancock on July 2.
Photo by Pam Anderson. |
Aspirus and
Superior Home Health and Hospice announce partnership
Representatives from
Superior Home Health and Hospice, currently a division of Western U.P.
Health Department, and Aspirus health system held a press conference at
the offices of Western U.P. Health Department in Hancock. They described
a business deal that will “ensure the viability of vital health care for
years to come”.
On Sept. 1, 2009, Superior Home Health and Hospice will become Aspirus
Superior Home Health and Hospice.
Through a collaboration between government and private entities,
Superior will transition from operating as a service of the Western
Upper Peninsula Health Department to standing alone as an independent
company. Superior Home Health employs 60 workers and serves 200 clients
in five counties, from offices in Hancock, L’Anse, Ontonagon and
Bessemer. Aspirus is an integrated health system based in Wausau, WI.
Show, sell at
the fair
Local artists,
organizations, and small business owners are encouraged to exhibit or
sell their products at the 2009 Baraga County Fair on August 7-9.
“With hundreds of community members attending the fair, it is the
perfect venue to showcase your products or services. There is ample
space in the exhibit building for you to set up a table/booth,”
according to Joyce Hoskins.
Local crafters and small business owners can use the fair as an
opportunity to reach members of the community that otherwise might not
know what they have to offer. Unique craft products, such as jewelry,
woodworking, and home decorations, can be displayed and sold throughout
the weekend. Also small business representatives such as Tupperware,
PartyLite, Lia Sophia, and Home and Garden, could benefit from this type
of venue.
Community
Market
The Community Market
will start again this summer at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 16, at the
L’Anse Waterfront Park for the Aura Jamboree Preview concert.
Like last summer the market will run for the duration of the
community concert series.
Those wishing to sell concert refreshments, such as bakery, soft
drinks, etc. may call Susan at 524-7899 to sign up for free space in the
pavilion.
Frog jumping
winners
Winners of the frog
jumping contest at Michigamme’s Fourth of July contest are:
0-3 age group-Addy Lein, 4-6 age group-Gabrielle Gilbertson, 7-8
age group -Kenzie Blau, 9-10 age group-Zoe Desimone, 11-12 age
group-Hannah Bershing, 13 and over age group- Cole Schultz.
Frog jumping jump off: 1st place-Hannah Bershing, 2nd place-Kenzie
Blau and 3rd place- Cole Schultz.
Official frog judge was Penny Frisk.
Weight Watchers
change format
Since January of
2008 Weight Watchers has been meeting on Monday evenings at the Baraga
Lakeside Inn. The group has celebrated much success losing over 3,000
collective pounds and learning to live and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Group Leader Marcy Romps of Houghton announced a change in the
meeting format as of Monday, July 13, 2009. The meeting will change from
a “CCW (Closed Community Workshop)” to a “Traditional” format.
Participants have more flexibility in membership. Members will have
options to fit their personal needs. They will be able to join and pay
on a weekly basis or purchase one of the four, eight, 12, 16 or 20-week
passes. When purchasing a pass members do not pay a joining fee and are
offered substantial discounts. Lifetime members can weigh in at any
meeting and as always if you are within two pounds of their goal, and
weigh in monthly, there is no charge.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Twelve vie for
Baraga Lumberjack Days Queen
Twelve girls are
competing to be the 2009 Baraga Lumberjack Days Queen. The queen will be
crowned at a program at 7 p.m. on Superior Avenue, preceding the street
dance on Friday, July 3.
Melissa Velmer: I am the daughter of Dennis and Julie Velmer of
Alston.
Devinne Kent: I am the daughter of Danielle Kent of L’Anse.
Chelsea Marie Paynter: I recently graduated from Baraga High
School. I live in Nisula with my father figure, Steve Carlson, and also
love spending time with my mother, Julie Hemmilla,
Elisa Reynolds: I am the daughter of Rob and Beth Reynolds.
Brittney Koskinen: I’m the daughter of Kim Koskinen of Baraga.
Cassandra Evans: I am the daughter of Sonya and Bill Evans of
L’Anse.
Kaitlin Tikkanen: I am the daughter of Ryan and Stacy Tikkanen.
Rebecca Rasanen: I am a fifth generation Rasanen’s of Baraga,
daughter or Carl and Julie.
Erica Bedner: I am the 17-year-old daughter of Brennan and Mary
Bedner of Baraga
Courtney Lloyd: I am the daughter of Scott and Tammie Lloyd of
L’Anse.
Samantha Lloyd: I am the daughter of Steve and Shelley Lloyd of
L’Anse.
Betsey Ekdahl: I am the daughter of Dianna Chamberlain of Baraga.
Michels
brothers graduate
Brothers John and
Scott Michels of L’Anse recently earned their college bachlers degrees.
John Michels, a 2004 graduate of L’Anse High School, received his
Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan on May 2, 2009.
In the fall John will be attending the Peabody School of Education at
Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. John will be pursuing a Masters
degree in Special Education.
Scott Michels, a 2005 graduate of L’Anse High School, received his
Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan Technological University on May
2, 2009. Scott is currently working at Bay Cliff Health Camp and then is
planning to work for Americorps for a year.
John and Scott are the sons of Bob and Lyn Michels of L’Anse.

Dance
performance
| The Superior School of
Dance presented “Who’s ‘Really’ Who in the Wild West” at the
Calumet Theatre. This theatrical comedy was portrayed using
interpretative dance at the Calumet Theatre May 29 - 30, 2009. The
recital consisted of many styles of dance: ballet, tap, jazz, hip
hop, and modern. Local dancers pictured l-r, first row are: Chloe
LaForest, Taylor Kemppainen; second row: Libby DeLeon, Abby
LaForest and Ireland Ingram; last row: Gabriel Mackey and Olivia
Ingram. |
L'Anse Schools
registration
The administration
of the L’Anse Area Schools encourages any parent who has not yet
registered their child for kindergarten to do so as soon as possible.
To be enrolled in kindergarten a child must be five years old on or
before Dec. 1,2009. A valid birth certificate, hospital certificate or
baptismal certificate must be presented at the time of registration.
Parents who already have registered their child, but have not returned
the immunization sheet, should do so as soon as possible.
UPPCO
charging for energy programs
Upper Peninsula
Power Company (UPPCO), along with all other Michigan utilities, will
begin collecting funds from customers for energy efficiency programs as
indicated by Michigan Act 295, the Clean, Renewable, and Efficient
Energy Act, which was voted into law in 2008. To comply with the
program, utilities are required to collect money to fund their own
energy-efficiency projects or to forward the money to a third party
selected by the state that will design and administer energy-efficiency
programs.
UPPCO will forward the money it collects to the third-party
administrator, which the State of Michigan has not yet named.
“I know it sounds and feels counter-intuitive,” said Janet Wolfe,
UPPCO spokesperson. “But customers should see savings in the long run as
a result of these programs.”
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

|
GETTING THE POINT--The
older summer program students created their own PowerPoint program
detailing what they had learned about river ecology, the water
cycle, and macroinvertebrates over four days last week. Front,
Jasmine Perry, middle row, l-r, Elisabeth Lester, Cindy Cholette
and Kinsey LaFernier. Back, l-r, summer program teacher Kristina
Waara, Rejean Houle, Jacob Haanpaa and Joey Roy. |
Students enjoy
Arvon summer program
About 20
elementary-aged kids gave up four days of their summer vacation to go
back to school–but there didn’t appear to be any complaints. The
children are from various schools in the area and they had a fun week of
activities learning about aquatic environments.
“Wet and Wild” was the title of the free program offered from 9
a.m. to 2 p.m. last Monday through Thursday. A second four-day program
is scheduled Monday-Thursday, Aug. 10-13. “Mathcapades” will feature fun
learning activities for reinforcing mathematics skills.
Baraga High
School releases honor roll
Baraga High School announces
its 2008-2009 second semester honor roll. Names with an * asterisk
indicate all A’s.
Grade 12: Robert Bellaire, Kathryn Danielson, Derek Dault, Dana
Dillon, Lucas Dolan, Geleah Dowler, Amber Geroux, Brittney
Heikkinen, Kalyn Isaacson*, Gabriella Jukkala*, Kyle Kaster,
Ashtin Koski, Tyler LaTendresse, Alisha Lindblom, Ashley Poehls*
and Elisa Reynolds.
Grade 11: Ashley Angle*, Erica Bedner*, Jessi DesRochers, Nathan
Eilola, Rebecca Ellenich, Ellyn Hurst*, Brian Johnson*, Michael
Jones, Kristin Koski, Paige Maskill*, Jessica Messer, Rebecca
Rasanen*, Ashlee Richards, David Seppanen, Kyle Seppanen, Kelly
Shanahan*, Kaitlin Tikkanen and Brad Wadaga .
Grade 10: Tashina Emery-Kauppila, Bryant Froberg*, Serena Goodreau,
|
Nicole Keranen, Gina
Magaraggia, Megan Turunen, Deana Velmer and Dollcie Webb.
Grade 9: Savannah Dakota*, Dylan Hemmila,
Dustin Juntunen, Gabriel Mackey, Hunter Maki, Alexandria Mayo*,
Raymond Niemi, Jana Parkila*, Corey Pietila, Rachel Sutherland and
Alisha Tilson*.
Grade 8: Nadine Barry, Brooke Chaudier, Miranda Coppler, Mariah
Fish*, Shannon Fish*, Alex Gabe, Olivia Ingram*, Jon Kaster, Joann
LaBeau, Rebecca Larson*, Taylor Lindemann, William Mayo, Heather
Mensch*, Brittany Nieskes*, Taryn Nurmela*, Katie Schjoth and
Christine Wilson*.
Grade 7: Kelly Bedner*, Frederick Dakota, Jenna Heikkinen, Jaclyn
Jahfetson*, Amber Kamarainen, Mackenzie Keefer, Winter Keefer,
Harley Lindemann* and Taylor Swanson. |
Graduate. makes
Dean's list at Michigan Tech
Baraga High School graduate
Maria Cerroni graduated in May from Michigan Technological
University with her masters degree in Business Administration.
Commencement was held on May 2, 2009.
Michigan Technological University has released the Dean’s List for
the spring 2009 semester, recognizing students who achieve grade
point averages of 3.5 or higher. Those earning straight A averages
of 4.0 are indicated by asterisks.
Among the honorees are the following from the local area.
Baraga: Anne Aho*, Senior, Social Sciences; Steven Johnson,
Senior, Biomedical Engineering; Melanie Lemerande, Sophomore, App
Ecol & Environ Sci; Joseph Turpeinen, Senior, Construction
Management.
|
L’Anse: Hilary Cadeau*,
Junior, Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Matthew Cowling*, Freshman,
Health and Physical Education; Jacob Deschaine, Senior, Physics;
Kelly Gerzetich, Senior, Business Administration; Alexander Hirzel,
Sophomore, Humanities; Matt Koski, Senior, Civil Engineering;
Scott Michels, Senior, Biological Sciences; Mychal Summers,
Senior, Mechanical Engineering Tech; Ana Vuk, Senior, Biological
Sciences, Jacqueline Walitalo*, Sophomore, Biological Sciences.
Pelkie: John Cladas, Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering; Andrew
Maki, Junior, Industrial Technology; James Orlando Jr, Senior,
Biological Sciences; Maija Stenvig, Senior, Exercise Science. |
NMU announces
graduates
Northern Michigan
University announces its graduates. The following students from our area
satisfied their degree requirements in May 2009.
Vocational Diploma: Jason Olson, L’Anse, VOC Electrical Line
Technician.
Associate Degree: Kevin Huhtasaari, Pelkie, AAS Industrial Electrical
Tech.
Baccalaureate Degree: Karen Andersen, Baraga, BS Psychology, Cum
Laude; Brigitte LaPointe-Tolonen, Baraga, BS Sports Science; Eric
VanStraten, Baraga, BS Industrial Technology; and Travis Lloyd, L’Anse,
BS Criminal Justice, Cum Laude.
NMU releases
winter '09 Dean's list
Northern Michigan
University announces the Dean’s List for the Winter 2009 semester. The
following students from our area qualified with a grade point average of
4.00.
L’Anse: Jamie Desrochers.
The following students from our area qualified with a grade point
average of 3.25-3.99.
Baraga: Clifford Andersen, Kelley Artley, Gerald Kirkish, Richard
Knisely, Craig Koski, Jessica LeClaire, Katherine Massie.
L’Anse: Lauren Beeler, Daniel Cavanaugh, Anthony Gerzetich, Drew
VanBuren, Lauren Bianco, Jerry Bugni, Jessica Caverly, Melissa Crebessa,
Tyler Delene, Jarod Kent, Nickolas Lincoln, Emily Schwartz, Sarah
Waisanen.
Pelkie: Darrel Cladas, Joshua Dufek, Kevin Huhtasaari, Jessica
Kemppainen, Matthew McKindles.
Watton: Samuel Besonen.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
|
TREASURES--Irene Mantila
displays a book of photos and memories, the original school bell,
‘Cadillac’ of lunch pails and Dick & Jane book in the Pelkie
School. |
Historic Pelkie
School celebrates 110th anniversary
The Historic Pelkie
School will celebrate its 100th anniversary this summer with grace and
dignity: lemonade and cookies, and no running in the aisles please.
Actually, that was once an acceptable method teachers in the
one-room country schoolhouse used for de-frosting students on frigid
school days. It’s just one of many historic tidbits awaiting visitors
this summer at Pelkie’s most well-preserved piece of history.
School was in session again on a blustery afternoon last week as
Irene Mantila, seated at the teacher’s desk, gave a short history lesson
to a class consisting of one reporter. It began with her role as
secretary of the Sturgeon Valley Historical Society, the group that
keeps the school and its history alive.
PLES announces
honor roll 2008-09
Philip LaTendresse
Elementary School released its honor roll for 2008-2009 semester
two. Included are the following students.
Grade 4: David DesRochers, Jameah Ekdahl, Brooklyn Fish, Adam
Irwin, Brittany Keranen, Ashtin Lindemann, Darla Mensch, Adebria
Miron, Rian Turunen and Sydni Voakes.
Grade 4: Alan DesRochers, Tyler Fish, Bailey Froberg, Kyle Lake,
Nicole Maki, Carsyn Osterman and Nate Welsh.
Grade 5: Raistlin Awonohopay, Zack Darcy, Anna Isaacson, Cortney
Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little, Skye Loonsfoot, Keisha McHenry,
Annaleese Rasanen and Brendan Varline.
|
Grade 5: Linnea Bemis,
Madison Clisch, Fred Cote IV, Troy DeCota, Austin Domitrovich,
Andrea Haagsma, Christian Hakola, Ireland Ingram, Samantha
Jahfetson, Clayton Luther, Courtney Mayo, Nathan Miron, Bryce
Retaskie, Teal Sackett and Joshua Sutherland.
Grade 6: Audrey Barrett, Corbin Crittenden, Rebecca Danielson,
Gabrielle Mayo, Kayla Messer, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo,
Jaclyn Wadaga and Sonja Welch.
Grade 6: Bronz LeRue, Kelli Massie and Steven Santti.
|
Lehto signing
North Wind Books
Finlandia
University’s North Wind Books, Hancock, will host a book signing with
author Steve Lehto Thursday, June 25, from 4 to 5 p.m.
Lehto will sign copies of his new book, “Michigan’s Columbus, The
Life of Douglass Houghton,” a chronicle of Dr. Houghton’s life and
tragic death.
The name, “Houghton” is well-known to Michiganians as a city, a
county, a lake, waterfalls, schools, and more. But how did Douglass
Houghton become such a “star?”
Business
counseling June 24
The Keweenaw
Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) and Finlandia University invite
area entrepreneurs to take advantage of free one-on-one business
counseling sessions at the university’s Jutila Center on Wednesday, June
24, 2009.
Business consultant Roger Woods of Homer Productivity, LLC, can
advise on all aspects of small business development from the initial
idea through growth and expansion strategies.
DNR seeks
comments
Department of
Natural Resources Fisheries Division officials are seeking comments on
proposed changes to state trout fishing regulations on inland lakes and
streams that are designed to further simplify the rules.
The current regulations, which were adopted in April 2000, were
designed to simplify and standardize trout regulations by stream type,
matching regulations to resource potential and allowing for diverse
recreational opportunity. Analysis of creel surveys conducted on some of
the streams showed that some of the regulations have not produced the
desired results.
The proposal calls for elimination of Type 2 stream regulations,
which were designed to produce larger fish.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

|
ON DISPLAY--Hand-hewn
logs covered a century or more are seeing the light of day again
thanks to George Portice, at right, who is renovating his
grandfather’s homestead. The crosscut saw on the wall, now painted
with a farm scene, was McComb’s. |
Homestead holds
key to McComb family history
George Portice is
practicing genealogy the hard way.
Portice is learning about his grandfather, John McComb, through
renovating his old homestead in Skanee. The harder Portice works, the
deeper he digs into the history of the home, and the make of the man who
built it. Eventually, he’d like to write McComb’s story.
Portice grew up in Skanee, just across the road from his late
grandfather’s homestead on Portice Road. He graduated from L’Anse High
School in 1954, then Michigan State University, and went on to teach
vocational agriculture downstate.
LHS lists top
scholars
L’Anse High School announces
its honor roll for the fourth quarter. Names with an asterisk *
indicate all A’s.
Seniors: Joseph Augustine, Janell Bianco, Steven Brunet, Courtney
Cadeau, Erin Connor, Rebecca Dufek, Gary Gagnier, Tony Hemmila,
Ian Hiltunen, *Sascha Hirzel, Dillon Hollon, Charles Johnson,
Rayann Kaurala, *Scott Kemppainen, Matthew Korpi, Andrew Koski,
Lacey Lane, Courtney Lloyd, James Mars, Peter Martinac, Kristin
Mattson, Michael Messer, Daniel Perrault, Andrew Schwartz, Shelby
Sikkila, Camille Sliger, Danielle Solberg, Jared Spencer,
Cristopher Stein, Kristin Sullivan, Alex Tarvainen, Kayla
Tarvainen, Franklin Tehako, Jeanne Tehako, Tori Tikkanen, Mark
Usitalo, *Melissa Velmer, Jessica Walitalo, Sage Wheelock, Jill
Witz, and Michelle Wood.
Juniors: Dennis Anderson, Cody Carter, Dylan Cassel, Gregor Cerne,
Jordan Dix, Cassandra Evans, Joseph Fedie, Mitch Fedie, Isaac
Hiltunen, Joshua Johnson, Joshua Keinz, Kylee Kristo, Jessica
Lane, Samantha Nagele, Patrick Osterman, Dylan Seavoy, Daniel
Sterbenz, Samantha Tollefson, Cassandra Wesner, Thomas Wiideman,
and Michael A. Williams.
|
Sophomores: Gerald
Archambeau, *Rebecca Augustine, Alex Beeler, David Bier, Carli
Chaudier, Katelyn Darcy, Brooke Davis, Nicole Delene, Cody
Dingeldey, Breanne Fish, Deanna Fooce, *Sarah Hansen, Jake Jaeger,
Aleah Kissel, *Paige Koskinen, Jessica Lawson, Samantha Lloyd,
Christopher Mayo, *Tara Meleen, *Rebecca Mill, Stacy Motley,
Carson Newland, Michael Olsen, Misty Owens, Nicole Parker, Joseph
Richard, Jacob Schwartz, Casey Sliger, *Jaclyn Sliger, Samuel
Soto, Kortney Tarvainen, Travis Tollefson, Kristopher Turunen, and
Daniel Walbridge.
Freshman: Sierra Ayres, Bridgette Bouchard, Acacia Copley,
Cassandra Dix, Klaire Fedie, Scott Gerzetich, Joslyn Hatfield,
Carter Hendricks, *Melody Hirzel, Samantha Juntunen, Samantha
Koski, Mckenna Lane, Miles Loosemore, Nathan Loosemore, Claire
Cram Mackenzie, Jessica Makela, Sarah Mars, Hope Minton, Deena
Marie Misegan, Jessica Nagele, Jordan Newland, Amanda Rantala,
Stephanie Raymond, Brialle Ringer, Cynthia Robacker, John Smith,
Autumn Swanson, Emma Tembreull, Derek Treadeau, Alex Vanwagner,
Dillon Velmer, Anthony Wakeham, and Molly Wilder.
Report cards may be picked up in the high school office. |
Many earn
honors at CJ Sullivan
| C. J. Sullivan Elementary
School has released its 2009 fourth marking period honor roll:
Grade 4: Antonio Aleo, Aaron Altz, Damion Back, Nicholas Carter,
Aaron Collins, Canyon Delene, Ryan Delene, Bailey Denomie, Shay
Ekdahl*, Faith Eliason, Brian Fedie, Lauren Gabe, Laura Gransell,
Dylan Grentz, Winter Haataja, Christopher Harden, Dylan Harden,
Dana Hiltunen *, Grace Hoskins, Samantha Johnson, James Juntunen,
Paul Ketola II, Katlyn King, Justice Kinnunen, Maegan Kraft,
Sabrina Laux, Kiersten Loonsfoot, Michael Lytikainen, Caitlyn
Menge, David Olson, Emma Ostermeyer, Samuel Pyykkonen, |
Justin Rajala, Olivia
Reini, Grayson Roe, Christopher Schjoth, Lauryn Schneider, Caleb
Scroggs, Chase Sullivan, Brook Thomas, Emmanuel Thompson and Cole
Younggren.
Grade 5: Ryan Beauprey, Emily Beer, Madison Bianco, Jay Bugni,
Porter Davis, Brittny Delene, Samuel Dix*, Erin Elmblad, Lauren
Elmblad, Dana Hochstein, Rejean Houle, Richard Jutnunen, Brandon
Koski*, Anthony LaFernier, Lana Lind, Olivia Lohmann, Brett
Mattson, Rachel Mills, Brianna Perry, Philip Pyykkonen, Paige
Risku, Jessica Rossi, Megan Salvito and Valerie Sliger. |
Finlandia
releases honor list
Finlandia University
recognizes its students in the Spring 2009 semester, earning grade point
averages from 3.50 to 4.00.
The Dean’s 4.0, Dean’s, and Honors lists include students who
completed at least 12 credit hours in the Spring 2009 semester.
Dean’s List 4.00: Katelyn Maki, 4.00, Baraga; Marc Marcotte, 4.00,
L’Anse.
Dean’s List: Chaslyn Duffek, 3.75, Pelkie.
Honors List: Kristen Collins, 3.68, L’Anse; Whitney Sirard, 3.66,
L’Anse; Andrea Mantta, 3.67, Pelkie.
LMS announces
4th quarter honor roll
L’Anse Middle School
announces its fourth quarter honor roll. Names with an asterisk *
indicate all A’s.
Grade 6: Emily Ahola, Dominique Aleo*, Theodore Ayres, Ashley
Bugni, Nickolas Cronkright, Jonathon DesLaurier*, Raven Dolan,
Breanna Dudo, Madeline Etelamaki, Jacob Fedie, Ashley Giddings,
Joshua Hansen, Karli Hoggard, Cole Huhtasaari, Lindsey Hulkonen,
Zachary Hulkkonen, Kelsey Kemppainen, Colton Lahti, Jill Lawson*,
Vanessa LeClaire, Halsey Lupro, Joseph McCarthy, Raymond Miron,
Matthew Osterman, Nicole Rossi, Alexus Rule*, Genevieve Smith*,
Lucas Tarvainen, Shayla Truesdell*, Christopher Varga, Allison
Waara* and Abbey Younggren.Grade 7: Joshua Barnett, Casey Carter,
Kaila Copley, Keith Denomie, Samantha Hatfield, Lauren Hendricks,
Jenna Hiltunen,
|
Megan Johnson, Kayla LaBerge,
Tristan Leaf, Jonathon Magaraggia, Abby Marinich, Brett Martinez,
Kayla Nagele, Alyssa Norback, Jacob Ostermeyer, Daniel Perrow,
Valerie Rajala, Kelsey Ross, Rebecca Roth, Brandon Scroggs,
Madissen Swanson, Shawnia Taisto, Abbey Tembreull and Megan
VanWagner.
Grade 8: Charlie Beer, Samantha Cangemi, Jordan Collins, Amanda
Dufek, Zachary Evans, Gregory Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy, Mercie
Hackeman, Joey Hansen, Alexandra Hatfield, Jacob Hiltunen, Rebecca
Hulkonen, Brianna Koski, Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson, Rachel
Maurer, Brianna Mayo, Heather McCarthy, Derek Meleen, Toby Niemi,
Alixandria Puwal, Alexis Reilley, Jeffery Roth, Christian Salvito,
Mary Schwartz, Brianna Steinberg, Ryan Treadeau and Michaela
Velmer. |
Area residents
graduate MTU
Michigan Technological
University honored the achievements of nearly 900 graduates May 2,
2009, at Spring Commencement. Among them were the following from
the local area:
Baraga: Steven Johnson, Bachelor of Science in Biomedical
Engineering; Jessica Koski, Bachelor of Science in Social
Sciences; Mindy Nicklas, Bachelor of Science in Clinical
Laboratory Science; Paul Pouttu, Bachelor of Science in Business
Administration; Paul Pouttu, Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
L’Anse: Jacob Deschaine, Bachelor of Science in Physics -Magna Cum
Laude; Kelly Gerzetich, Bachelor of Science in Business
Administration; |
Cassie Kautto, Bachelor of
Science in Business Administration; Scott Michels, Bachelor of
Science in Biological Sciences; Keith Rolof, Bachelor of Science
in Business Administration; Johanna Stout, Bachelor of Science in
Business Administration; Mychal Summers, Bachelor of Science in
Mechanical Engineering Technology; Ana Vuk, Bachelor of Science in
Biological Sciences.
Pelkie: James Orlando Jr, Bachelor of Science in Biological
Sciences; Heather Tahtinen, Bachelor of Arts in Scientific and
Technical Communication.
Watton: Elsa Roberts, Bachelor of Arts in Communication and
Culture Studies. |
Community
Schools releases honor roll
L’Anse-Baraga
Community Schools has released the Alternative Education honor roll for
the fourth quarter, 2009. Edward LeRue, Jr. was placed on the list.
The Adult Education honor roll includes: Peggy Cadeau, Sondra
Chapman, Shanda Frank, Julie Gauthier, Steven Lokers, Jordan Pyykkonen
and Lisa Vokoviak.
Nelson elected
Baraga Area Schools
Director of Bands Brandon Nelson was recently elected the vice president
of Honors Band for District XIV of the Michigan State Band and Orchestra
Association (MSBOA). District XIV covers the western half of the UP.
“Honors Band is a unique opportunity for our top music students to
come together and play a concert under the baton of a respected guest
conductor,” explained Nelson.
Nelson’s duties will include appointing the conductors for both the
concert and jazz bands and auditioning students for spots in those
ensembles. The term of office is two years.
Earns masters
degree
Erin
Sikorsky-Stewart has received a master’s degree in International Affairs
from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia
University in New York City, NY. The graduation ceremony was held on
Monday, May 19, 2009, at Riverside Church in Manhattan.
While attending Columbia, Sikorsky-Stewart served as an intern in
the U.S. State Department in Washington D.C. At Columbia she served as
senior editor of the Journal of International Affairs and also received
a Fellowship Award and taught economics.
Summer reading
starting
Opening day
activities and registration for the Portage Lake District Library’s “Be
Creative at Your Library” Summer Reading Program begins Saturday, June
13, from noon – 3 p.m. at the library on the Houghton waterfront.
Kids are invited to make art outdoors, weather permitting, and
indoors everyone can create their own ice cream sundae in the community
room. In addition, balloon artist, John Gershenson, will make balloon
creations for kids.
Registration will continue throughout the eight week program.
Participants will receive a book bag when they register, and prizes will
be awarded as they progress through their reading lists.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Business
budding at Roberts' 'Branching Out'
Business is budding
this Spring at Joan Roberts’ “Branching Out” in Watton.
Roberts creates twig baskets, garden fences, furniture and more of
wood products harvested locally, from fresh shoots of tag alder to
weathered slabs of barn wood. It’s a cottage industry in every sense of
the word, based at the family home on M-28 five miles south of
Covington.
The business tracks its roots back to the Ozarks. Joan and her
husband, Lale, lived so far back in the “sticks” they decided to create
a business from them. (Pun intended–no apologies here). Before they had
electricity, they fashioned their crafts with a hatchet, hammer and
nails.
C.J. students
earn awards May 19
The Honors Convocation
program on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, included the following medals
earned by C.J. Sullivan fourth and fifth grade students.
Grade 5: Ryan Beauprey, Bronze ; Emily Beer, Silver; Jay Bugni,
Silver; Porter Davis, Silver; Samuel Dix, Silver; Erin Elmblad,
Silver; Lauren Elmblad, Silver; Brandon Koski, Silver, Lana Lind,
Silver, Olivia Lohmann, Silver; Rachel Mills, Bronze; Jessica
Rossi, Silver; Megan Salvito, Silver. Grade 4: Aaron Altz, Bronze;
Aaron Collins, Bronze; Shay Ekdahl, Silver, Brian Fedie Silver;
Lauren Gabe, Bronze; |
Laura Gransell, Silver; Dylan Grentz, Silver; Winter Haataja,
Bronze; Christopher Harden, Bronze; Dylan Harden, Bronze; Dana
Hiltunen, Silver; Grace Hoskins, Silver; Samantha Johnson, Silver;
Katlyn King, Bronze; Justice Kinnunen, Silver; Maegan Kraft,
Silver; Sabrina Laux, Bronze; Michael Lytikainen, Silver; Caitlyn
Menge, Silver; Emma Ostermeyer, Silver; Grayson Roe, Silver;
Christopher Schjoth, Bronze; Lauryn Schneider, Silver; Caleb
Scroggs, Bronze; Chase Sullivan, Bronze; Brook Thomas, Silver.
|
Handbell
concert in L'Anse June 14
Bells on the Bay
Community Handbell Choir will present a public concert on Sunday, June
14, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of Sacred Heart Church in L’Anse.
Music to be presented will include patriotic, sacred, Americana,
spiritual, and original compositions.
The handbells will be joined by Nick Enz of MTU’s Fine Arts
faculty, Melissa Williams, local vocal and instrumental music teacher,
and the United Lutheran Church Choir.
SHS lists
honors
Sacred Heart School
has released its honor roll for the fourth quarter. Names with an
asterisk * indicate all A’s.
Grade 4: Alexis Francois, Victoria Francois, Ashok Ravindran,
Carolyn Schwartz and Brandt Tembreull.
Grade 5: Sierra Frank, Jacob Freeman*, Colin Jackson, Emily
Magaraggia*, Lila Morningstar* and Jessica Velmer.
Grade 6: Lauren Jackson and Elsa Schwartz*.
Business
counseling
The Keweenaw
Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) and Finlandia University invite
area entrepreneurs to take advantage of free one-on-one business
counseling sessions at the university’s Jutila Center on Tuesday, June
9, 2009.
Business consultant Roger Woods of Homer Productivity, LLC, can
advise on all aspects of small business development from the initial
idea through growth and expansion strategies.
Appointments are recommended and can be made by phone at 487-7450,
or e-mail cgdb@finlandia.edu
BHK offers
early registration
BHK Child
Development will have an “Early Bird” registration event for fall
preschool and childcare from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at
its Centennial, Houghton and L’Anse centers.
Parents can register for free half-day preschool for 3, 4 and
5-year-old children and low-cost, full-day childcare for children ages 6
weeks to 6 years old. Lower incme families and children with special
needs will receive priority placement. Vision and hearing screenings
will be offered as part of the Early Bird registrations in Houghton and
Centennial.
Appointments are required. To make an appointment, call 482-3663 or
1-800-236-5657 by Friday, June 12, 2009.
Community arts
new exhibit
The new exhibit in
the Community Arts Centers’ Kerredge Gallery is Recent Works by local
artists, Tom Rudd and Margo McCafferty. In 2005 the two artists were
awarded an Artists in Residency on Isle Royale.
After spending three weeks on the island working on their art along
with their young son, Max they decided to buy a house and move to
Calumet.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

| FAMILY--matters to Kyosti
Kallionpaa, second from left, who was so touched by a care package
received over 60 years ago he tracked his cousin, Roy Norman,
left, to Watton to give thanks. Kyosti’s son, Unto, and Unto’s
wife, Mervi, came with him to visit and tour the area, and plan on
visiting Niagara Falls before heading back for home. |
WWII care
package finally comes full circle
Finnish
recipient comes to Watton to say "Thank you!"
When he was a young
boy in Finland, a small kindness made a big impact on the life of Kyosti
Kallionpaa. Last week he crossed an ocean to give thanks.
The story starts in 1948, when Ilmi Jackson of Watton set out to
send a care package to relatives in Finland. Ilmi had struggles enough
of her own, raising two children by herself, but Finland had been
brought to its knees fighting off Germany and Russia in WWII, and family
needed help.
“They needed some articles, and we had them,” said Ilmi’s son, Roy
Norman of Watton. “Fishing gear, clothing, even buttons. All they had
were leather buttons, and she figured those wouldn’t dry straight after
you washed ‘em.”
Honors
Convocation celebrates scholars
L’Anse High School gymnasium
was packed Tuesday, May 19, 2009, for the annual Honors
Convocation.
Students grades 4-12 were recognized for a number of
accomplishments. . . ranging from scholarships and awards to
maintaining noteworthy grade point averages (honor roll).
Following a processional led by valedictorian Melissa Velmer and
co-salutatorians Scott Kemppainen and Sascha Hirzel, LHS Class of
1981 alumnus Mike Roth addressed the group as did L’Anse Area
School’s Board of Education President Joan Bugni.
Awards for the highest GPA while participating in band, boy’s
athletics and girl’s athletics were next to be recognized.
Rebecca Augustine and Scott Kemppainen received the 2008-2009 band
scholars. This year’s boy’s athletic award went to Cody Carter.
Rebecca Augustine, Paige Koskinen and Tara Meleen were chosen as
this year’s girls athletic award recipients.
Next to be recognized were those students who qualified for the
President’s Award for Academic Excellence. The award was
established to encourage students to achieve high academic
standards by recognizing and rewarding them for educational
excellence.
The criteria for the award is maintaining at least a 3.5 grade
point average over their four years of high school and achieve in
the 85th percentile or higher in math or reading on a standardized
achievement test. Recipients included: Joseph Augustine, Courtney
Cadeau, Sascha Hirzel, Scott Kemppainen, Kristin Mattson, Andrew
Schwartz, Jeanne Tehako and Melissa Velmer.
This year’s recipient of the William Jarvey Memorial Award is
Jeanne Tehako. Courtney Cadeau, Cassandra Evans, Sascha Hirzel,
Samantha Tollefson, Melissa Velmer and Tehako were nominated.
The Jarvey award is presented annually to the outstanding citizen
of LHS. William Jarvey was awarded the Carnegie for heroism nearly
30 years after death and that medal is housed in the LHS display
case.
The recipient of the award must be active in extra-curricular
activities, active in class projects, be an example of good
citizenship to fellow classmates and be cooperative with faculty
and administration. Tehako was also chosen to receive the Frank E.
McKindles English Award.
This award is given by Robert McKindles in memory of his father
who valued high standards and the use of good English in the field
of journalism. The recipient is selected by a committee of high
school English teachers.
The Josten Medal Awards were presented to Valedictorian Melissa
Velmer and Co-Salutatorians Sascha Hirzel and Scott Kemppainen.
High school principal Catherine Shamion presented high school
awards to seniors Joseph Augustine, bronze; Steven Brunet, bronze;
|
Courtney Cadeau, silver,
Erin Connor, silver; Tony Hemmila, bronze, Sascha Hirzel, silver;
Rayann Kaurala, bronze; Scott Kemppainen, gold; Andrew Koski,
bronze; Kristin Mattson, silver; Andrew Schwartz, silver; Camille
Sliger, silver; Danielle Solberg, bronze; Jared Spencer, bronze;
Cristopher Stein, bronze; Alexander Tarvainen, bronze; Jeanne
Tehako, silver, Franklin Tehako, silver; Tori Tikkanen, bronze;
Melissa Velmer, gold; Jessica Walitalo, bronze; Jill Witz, bronze,
Michelle Wood, silver.
Juniors: Cody Carter, gold; Dylan Cassel, silver; Cassandra Evans,
silver; Mitch Fedie, silver; Joseph Fedie, bronze; Isaac Hiltunen,
bronze; Dylan Seavoy, bronze; Daniel Sterbenz, bronze; Samantha
Tollefson, silver; Cassandra Wesner, bronze; Michael A. Williams,
silver.
Sophomores: Gerald Archambeau, bronze; Rebecca Augustine, gold;
David Bier, silver; Katelyn Darcy, silver; Brooke Davis, silver;
Nicole Delene, bronze; Cody Dingeldey, silver; Breanne Fish,
bronze; Sarah Hansen, gold; Jake Jaeger, silver; Aleah Kissel,
bronze; Paige Koskinen, gold; Jessica Lawson, silver; Samantha
Lloyd, bronze; Tara Meleen, gold; Rebecca Mills, gold; Stacy
Motley, silver; Misty Owens, silver; Joseph Richard, bronze;
Jaclyn Sliger, gold; Casey Sliger, silver; Samuel Soto, silver;
Travis Tollefson, silver; Kristopher Turunen, silver; Daniel
Walbridge, silver.Freshmen: Sierra Ayres, bronze; Acacia Copley,
silver; Claire Cram, silver; Cassandra Dix, bronze; Joslyn
Hatfield, bronze; Carter Hendricks, silver; Melody Hirzel, silver;
Samantha Koski, silver; Nathan Loosemore, silver; Miles Loosemore,
bronze; Jessica Makela, silver; Sarah Mars, bronze; Amanda Rantala,
silver; Stephanie Raymond, silver; Brialle Ringer, bronze; John
Smith, silver; Emma Tembreull, silver; Derek Treadeau, bronze;
Alex VanWagner, silver; Dillon Velmer, silver; Anthony Wakeham,
silver.
Grade 8: Charlie Beer, ,Samantha Cangemi, Amanda Dufek, Zach
Evans, Greg Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy, Alexandra Hatfield, Rebecca
Hulkonen, Brianna Koski, Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson, Rachel
Maurer, Heather McCarthy, Derek Meleen, Alexis Reilley, Christian
Salvito, Mary Schwartz and Michaela Velmer.
Grade 7: Casey Carter, Keith Denomie, Samantha Hatfield, Lauren
Hendricks, Jenna Hiltunen, Kayla LaBerge, Tristan Leaf, Brett
Martinez, Kayla Nagele, Alyssa Norback, Jacob Ostermeyer, Valerie
Rajala, Kelsey Ross, Rebecca Roth, Brandon Scroggs, Shawnia Taisto,
Abbey Tembreull and Megan VanWagner.
Grade 6: Emily Ahola, Dominque Aleo, Austin Ayres, Ashley Bugni,
Jonathon DesLaurier, Breanna Dudo, Madeline Etelamaki, Jacob Fedie,
Ashley Giddings, Karli Hoggard, Lindsey Hulkonen, Zach
Hulkonen,Kelsey Kemppainen, Jill Lawson, Vanessa LeCaire, Halsey
Lupro , Joseph McCarthy, Nicole Rossi, Alexus Rule, Genevieve
Smith*, Lucas Tarvainen, Shayla Truesdell and Allison Waara.
|
Gerzetich,
Marinich cited for excellence
A Celebration of
Excellence was held May 14, 2009, to honor people in the Copper Country
Education Association who have made a difference in their public schools
for the 2008-2009 school year.
A dinner was held at the Ramada Inn in Hancock. Honorees for the
L’Anse Area Schools were Janet Gerzetich and Pat Marinich.
Gerzetich was commended for her professionalism, attention to
curriculum needs and her overall commitment to the school she works in
and assuming personal responsibility for the success of events run
within the school by doing her part.
Gerzetich teaches second grade and is in her 29th year of teaching
in the L’Anse Area School.
Marinich was commended for the volunteer time he puts into the
L’Anse Area Schools Public Library every day. He is a friend to all.
The students have a wonderful rapport with Mr. Marinich. He is a
true friend to the L’Anse schools and the community of L’Anse and
continues to make a difference.
CJ students
raise $3,040 for St. Jude
Fourth and fifth
grade L’Anse math teachers, Rebecca Stroube and Kristina Mechlin had 50
students participate in this year’s St. Jude Mathathon. St. Jude
sponsors the mathathon each year to raise money to help childhood cancer
research. This year’s event raised $3,040.
A celebration luncheon was held on May 6 to present awards to
students, along with pizza and pop. Because this year’s students beat
last year’s goal Mechlin and Stroube made chocolate cake as a treat for
their extra efforts.
Need 'Lizzy
volunteers
The ninth annual Tin
Lizzie Day will be presented by the Ford Center in Alberta on Saturday,
June 27, 2009, from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. The Ford Center is still seeking
volunteers, vintage car owners and artist/craftspeople to participate in
this year’s event. The deadlines have been extended. Vehicles need
to be at least 30 years old and can be in any stage of restoration.
Other events include an apple dessert challenge (baking contest),
as well as a pasty eating and log throwing contests. For more
information call 524-6181 or go to
www.fordcenter.mtu.edu/tinlizzie
Due to the recession, admission for this year’s event will be free.
Admission also includes the sawmill museum.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

| HISTORY LIVES--on and
creates new business ventures in The Ivory Mansion, above, and
Little Bear Cabin, left. The historic cabin and historic home that
was added onto in a big way (the Crebessa home is at the left end
of the Mansion) have been renovated and re-built by Steve and Lynn
Ketola. Lynn and ancestors are pictured below. |
Lodging options
range from mansion to cabin
The Ivory Mansion
boasts many “great rooms”. Its living room with oriental accents and
decor soars three stories high, with a hand-carved railing of flowers
and birds and painted dragon that weaves its way down. The Scandinavian
room features a hot tub, sauna and Superior view.
Lynn designed the rooms, incorporating family heirlooms and
indulging her love of antiquing in the process. Steve’s hand-carvings,
gifted wood working and painting put a polish on the house that Crebassa
built, and the Ketolas later re-built into a home and business.
Church hosts
Tanzanian guests
St. Paul’s Lutheran
Church in Mass City will be hosting a lunch reception for Dr. Tulitweni
Mwinuka and Mr. Charles Robert of Tanzania on Saturday, May 23, 2009,
from noon to 1:30 p.m. The public is invited.
In September of 2008, St. Paul’s, a member of the Northern Great
Lakes Synod (NGLS) of the ELCA, invited Bishop Thomas and Luanne Skrenes
to give a presentation on their November 2007 trip to the Eastern and
Coastal Diocese of Tanzania which is the companion synod of the NGLS.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
| Frankie Tehako and Erin
Connor were chosen as this year’s L’Anse High School Prom King and
Queen. |
Finlandia
awards 108 degrees May 3
Finlandia University awarded
108 bachelor and associate degrees to the university's Class of
2009 at Commencement exercises May 3, 2009.
Degrees conferred to Finlandia’s Class of 2009 are: eight Bachelor
of Arts (B.A.) degrees in Elementary Education, four B.A.s in
Liberal Studies, one B.A. in Liberal Studies: English; one B.A. in
Liberal Studies: Social Science; and five B.A.s in Human Services;
28 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degrees; 13 Bachelor of
Business Administration (B.B.A.) degrees; 14 Bachelor of Fine Arts
(B.F.A.) degrees; 12 Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees
in Criminal Justice, 15 A.A.S. degrees in Physical Therapist
Assistant (PTA); and 7 Associate of General Studies (A.G.S.)
degrees.
|
The 2009 graduating
students, the degrees they earned, their minor or concentration,
and their hometowns, are from Baraga County as follows:
Chaslyn Jill Duffek, B.F.A.-Fiber Arts, Fashion Design, Pelkie;
Jacquelyn Ann Hakala, B.A.-Liberal Studies, Pelkie; Lisa Marie
Harden, B.A.-Elementary Education, Baraga; Elizabeth Anne
Hendrickson, B.A.-Elementary Education, L’Anse; Courtney Elaine
Loosemore, B.S.N., L’Anse; Katelyn Ann Maki, B.S.N., L’Anse; Tammy
Marie Perry, B.S.N., L’Anse; Vicki Lynn Peterson, B.S.N., Pelkie;
Whitney Noel Sirard, B.F.A.-Graphic Design, L’Anse; Bobbi Megan
Teddy, B.S.N., L’Anse; Fawntelle Shalaine Williams,
B.A.-Elementary Education, Skanee. |
BHK Foundation
offering 3 scholarships to alumni
The BHK Foundation
is accepting applications for three $500 scholarships from area high
school seniors who attended BHK Child Development Board early childhood
programs.
The scholarships may be used to cover any expenses related to
post-secondary education, including tuition, room, board, books,
supplies and other expenses at colleges, universities and trade schools.
“Post-secondary education is a key ingredient to success in the
21st century,” said Willis Fontaine, Foundation President. “By offering
these scholarships, the BHK Foundation hopes to help some of our local
youth achieve that success.”
Summer 'Read to
Ride' could win youths bicycles
To encourage youth to read during
the summer months the annual “Read to Ride” program is again underway.
Spearheaded years ago by the late Herman Gundlach, the program invites
youth ages 6-14 across the region to read books for a chance to win a
mountain bike later this summer.
Youth in Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon or Gogebic counties are
eligible. They can read a book, or better yet, several books, and then
fill out a Read to Ride entry form. Forms are available at school
offices, public libraries, the Copper Country ISD in Hancock, the
Gogebic-Ontonagon ISD. Or call 482-4520 or 800-562-7613; or on the web
at www.readtoride.net
Completed forms are due in by Aug. 3, 2009. A minimum of 20 bicycles
will be awarded on Aug. 12, 2009. The event is sponsored by REMC #1,
CCISD and Gogebic-Ontonagon ISD, Daily Mining Gazette, Good Will Farm
and Houghton Rotary.
Suomi
Conference n Chassell
The Spring Word and
Song Festival of the Suomi Conference USA will be held on Sunday, May
31, 2009, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on N. US 41 in Chassell. The
event will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a coffee social, followed by the main
worship service at 3 pm.
The theme for the day will be “Remembering Luther League” with
Pastor Henry Aukee of Barnes, WI, as the featured speaker. Aukee, an
Ironwood native was the league president in the predecessor body just
before church merger.
The festival will give opportunity to “play with the past” as we
recall the vitality of youth work in the good old days. There will be
special music, including solos by Dan Maki, and a violin presentation by
Marcia Niemi, duet by Norma Nominelli and Lois Seaton.
The festival will conclude with a lasagna and baked chicken dinner
served by the Shelby Turnquist Caterers at 5 p.m.
Suomi Conference is a special Interest Group of the Lutheran Church
in America. The public is invited.
The 2009 International
School of Art & Design Diploma Works Exhibition is featured at the
Finlandia University Gallery through May 22, 2009.
This exhibit features the “diploma works” of graduating Finlandia
bachelor of fine arts (BFA) students.
Each individual’s exhibit represents his or her final body of
student work. The work takes the forms of intensive research
projects, series of individual artworks, or design prototypes.
Graduating BFA seniors featured in the exhibit are: Colleen
Carroll (Calumet, Mich.), Chaslyn Duffek (Pelkie, Mich.), Jennifer
Hamel (Livonia, Mich.), |
Stacy Karvonen (Nisula,
Mich.), Jennette Katona (Negaunee, Mich.), Ansley Knoch (Madison,
Wisc.), Fred Knoch (Madison, Wisc.), Joss Martin (Crystal Falls,
Mich.), Jessica Millar (Acton, Calif.), Anne Patrick (Hancock,
Mich.), Jordan Siegler (Felch, Mich.), and Whitney Sirard (L’Anse,
Mich.).
The Finlandia University Gallery is located in the Finnish
American Heritage Center, Hancock. Gallery hours are Monday
through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00
p.m., or by appointment.
The 2009 Diploma Works Exhibition is on display through May 22,
2009. Please call 906-487-7500 for more information. |
| |
|
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

| MANY HANDS--sewed the
Garden Path quilt pictured above, displayed at the Arvon Township
Hall by fellow members of the ‘FIFI’ (Find It, Finish It) group.
At left, top, is Kay Erickson. Center left is Arlene Ripple and in
front left, l-r, are Doris Roth, Ethel Kovala and Annette
Lindstrom. Right, top to bottom, are Jan Cram, Roselyn Ruona, Sue
Bollech and Carol Cooley. The bigger-than-queen-size quilt will be
raffled July 12 to benefit continuing renovation of the Arvon
Township Museum. |
'Garden Path'
quilt benefits Arvon Museum
The FIFI ladies are
at it again!
The Skanee-based club has produced another stunning, queen-size
quilt that will be awarded in a raffle July 12, 2009. All proceeds will
once again benefit the continuing renovation of the Arvon Township
Historical Museum.
The museum is the former parsonage for the Zion Lutheran Church,
located right across the street. Built about 100 years ago, the
parsonage now houses items and displays from the area’s past, open
Saturday afternoons from 1-4 p.m. from June through August.
BCMH welcomes
new PT
Baraga County
Memorial Hospital has added a new physical therapist, Kalyan Chintapalli,
P.T. to their therapy staff.
Chintapalli will be providing services for inpatients at the
hospital, and for outpatients at the BCMH Rehab & Fitness Center. He is
filling the physical therapist position that has been open for some time
at BCMH.
Chintapalli was most recently employed as a physical therapist at
Putnam County Hospital in Greencastle, IN, and prior to that at Creative
Health Solutions in Marion, IN, which is a long term care facility.
Finlandia
honors graduating students
Friday evening, April 17,
2009, students, family members, faculty, and staff gathered at the
annual Finlandia University Honors Banquet to recognize student
achievement. Finlandia faculty and staff congratulate these
students.
The following 2009 graduates from this area were recognized for
their academic achievements:
Class of 2009 Summa Cum Laude Honors graduates: earned an overall
3.9-4.0 GPA. The summa cum laude bachelor’s degree candidates
include Lisa Harden of Baraga.
Class of 2009 Magna Cum Laude Honors graduates earned an overall
3.700-3.899 GPA. Magna cum laude bachelor’s degree candidates
include Stacy Karvonen of Nisula, Courtney Loosemore of L’Anse,
Katelyn Maki of L’Anse, Tammy Perry of L’Anse, and Vicki Peterson
of Pelkie.
|
Class of 2009 Cum Laude
Honors graduates earned a 3.50-3.699 overall GPA. Bachelor’s
degree cum laude candidates include Bobbi Teddy of L’Anse.
Sampo Society Membership is awarded to graduating students with a
cumulative GPA of 3.75-4.0 who have demonstrated leadership,
commitment, achievement, initiative, and involvement in the
cultural and intellectual life of the campus and community. This
year’s recipients include Lisa Harden.
The Sisu Award is awarded to students who have shown courage,
fortitude, and perseverance in overcoming hardship to achieve
academic and personal success. This year’s recipients include
Jacquelyn Hakala of Pelkie and Stacy Karvonen. |
BCMH offers
free screening May 12
National Hospital
Week will be celebrated at Baraga County Memorial Hospital during the
week of May 10-16, 2009. The theme of this year’s National Hospital
Week, “A Healthy Commitment in Changing Times.”
During National Hospital Week, BCMH will be offering a free health
screening on Tuesday, May 12, 2009, from 6 to 10 a.m. in the basement
area of the hospital. The screening will consist of a blood pressure
check, blood sugar, and cholesterol test (including triglycerides, HDL
and LDL). The results of the tests will be mailed to participants during
the week following the screening.
Experiment with
art at Trout Creek show
Karen Milszeski will
be leading a textile art activity at the Trout Creek Art Show to be held
Saturday, May 9, 2009.
Always interested in experimentation, Milszeski will be
demonstrating and giving art show attendees the opportunity to play and
experiment with textile art.
A six-year resident of Sidnaw, Milszeski has been an artist for
eight years. In studying “The Artist Way” books with a group of friends,
she realized her fear of painting, and knew she needed to paint to
overcome that fear.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009

| HONORED--Joyce Chosa,
Education and Disabilities Coordinator for KBIC Head Start/Early
Start, right, recieves the Dream Catcher Award from Terri Denomie,
left. |
Chosa selected
to receive 'Dream Catcher Award'
KBIC Even Start
Family Literacy Program announced the selection of this year’s
recipients for the second annual “Dream Catcher Award” in celebration of
the NAEYC National Week of the Young Child, April 19-25. Joyce Chosa,
Education and Disabilities Coordinator of KBIC Head Start/Early Head
Start was selected from an impressive group of nominees.
The “Dream Catcher Award” recognizes the contributions of community
individuals to the success of children through their efforts in the
areas of early childhood education, social services, parenting or
mentoring. Through this award, KBIC Even Start spotlights the people who
make a positive difference in the lives of young children in our
community.
Artist Market
opens May 1st
The UP Made Artist
Market will open for its fourth season Friday, May 1, 2009, at 10 a.m.
in the Historic Covington School in Covington.
The juried artists’ market, which is sponsored by the non-profit
Community Women’s Group, promotes the “Keep it in the UP” slogan by
supporting UP artists and fine crafters.
The market debuted with works by a dozen contributors, but quickly
grew to represent 60 as artists from across the UP submitted their works
to this new venue. Many have been recruited at art shows, and only the
best works are accepted for show and sale at the Artist Market.
Animal
swap/sale May 16
The Ontonagon County
4-H Small Animal Swap & Sale will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2009,
starting at 9 a.m. EST, at the Stannard Township Recreation Park in
Bruce Crossing, MI, located on US-45 one block north of the US-45/M-28
junction.
The 23rd annual Small Animal Swap and Sale is not only an
opportunity for small animal enthusiasts to sell excess stock but also
an opportunity to buy something new and different. In previous years, a
variety of farm and garden related items have also been sold. Anything
goes- birds, sheep, goats, small pigs, chickens, ducks, pheasants,
quail, garden and house plants, horse tack and clothing and more. No
large livestock are allowed, but flyers are welcome. A $2 vendor fee
will be charged to the seller.
'Casserole
comeback' author at Finlandia
“Casseroles are
making a comeback,” writes Beatrice Ojakangas in her introduction to her
latest cookbook, “The Best Casserole Cookbook Ever.”
Finlandia University’s North Wind Books will host an event with
Ojakangas Thursday, May 7 from 4 to 5 p.m. She will sign copies of her
books and dishes made using recipes from her cookbooks will be served.
The event is free and open to the public.
“The Best Casserole Cookbook Ever” includes over 500 recipes for
just about any type of casserole imaginable. The 640-page paperback was
published in August 2008 by publisher Chronicle Books. The cookbook has
been nominated for a 2009 James Beard Foundation Award.
Baraga concert
May 4
The Baraga High
School Band is preparing to do something few other high school bands get
to do: premier a new composition. Band Director and composer Brandon
Nelson has written a piece for his band that highlights regional
history. Entitled “Snowshoe Priest Saga”, the work portrays Bishop
Frederick Baraga’s pioneering spirit and desire for peace among all
peoples.
“I think it’s important for students to experience the creative
process first-hand. It really brings home the point that music is a
living art and that music is still being created,” Nelson said. “This
piece is what’s called a ‘tone poem’. It has some contrasting sections
and is quite dramatic. The casual listener would be able to discern
several distinct themes, or melodies, which come back in various forms
throughout.”
Storm spotter
training in L'Anse
A National Weather
Service Storm Spotter training class will be held in L’Anse on Tuesday,
May 19, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. The location will be in the L’Anse Village
Chambers in downtown L’Anse.
Each year, the National Weather Service in Marquette presents
Severe Weather Storm Spotter Training Courses across the Upper Peninsula
of Michigan. The presentations are free, open to the public, and no
advance registration is required. The program provides details on why
storm spotters are so important to the weather warning process, how to
become a weather spotter, and how to submit reports to the National
Weather Service. The program is also open to general weather enthusiasts
who want to learn more about the weather.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009

| HONORING LARRY--Larry
Menard, left, receives recognition from Chairman Mike Koskinen for
about a quarter century of service as District 5 Commissioner.
Menard retired from the county board this past January. |
Menard off
county board, still on duty
Larry Menard of
L’Anse quietly closed the door on a career spanning about 25 years when
he retired from the Baraga County Board of Commissioners this past
January.
That doesn’t mean we’ve heard the last from Larry.
The L’Anse native owns and manages the L’Anse Ace Hardware store on
Main St. with his wife, Virginia. His interest in civic duty stretches
to his pre-county board days, pegging him as a prime candidate for the
District 5 seat that opened in 1977.
“I was appointed to fill Dick Francois’ seat,” Menard said.
Figuring back a little farther he recalled, “They came and asked me . .
. Dick did. He said, ‘You wanna’ be on the board?’ I said, ‘Why
not?–sure!’”
Baraga High
School releases honors list
Baraga High School announces
its third term honor roll for 2008-09. An asterisk * indicates all
A’s.
Grade 12: Jessica Alatalo, Robert Bellaire, Kathryn Danielson,
Derek Dault*, Lucas Dolan, Geleah Dowler, Brittney Heikkinen,
Kalyn Isaacson*, Beau Johnson, Gabriella Jukkala*, Kyle Kaster,
Ashtin Koski, Megan LaPlante, Tyler LaTendresse, Alisha Lindblom,
Kyle Maki, Dustin Parkila, Ashley Poehls, Elisa Reynolds and
Johnathon White.
Grade 11: Ashley Angle*, Erica Bedner*, Jessi DesRochers, Nathan
Eilola, Rebecca Ellenich, Amy Forcia, Ellyn Hurst*, Brian
Johnson*, Kristin Koski, Travis LaTendresse, Paige Maskill*,
Jessica Messer, Rebecca Rasanen*, Ashlee Richards*, Matt Santti,
Kelly Shanahan*, Kaitlin Tikkanen and Brad Wadaga.
Grade 10: Tashina Emery-Kauppila, Bryant Froberg, Serena Goodreau,
Andrea Heikkinen, Nicole Keranen, Gina Magaraggia, Megan Turunen,
Brent VanAlstine, Deana Velmer and Dollcie Webb.
|
Grade 9: Justin Clisch,
Savannah Dakota*, Dylan Hemmila, Dustin Juntunen, Gabriel Mackey*,
Hunter Maki, Alexandria Mayo*, Jana Parkila*, Hailey Pelon, Corey
Pietila, Rachel Sutherland and Alisha Tilson*.
Grade 8: Nadine Barry, Brooke Chaudier, Miranda Coppler, Mariah
Fish*, Shannon Fish*, Alex Gabe, Olivia Ingram*, Jon Kaster, Joann
LaBeau, Rebecca Larson*, Taylor Lindemann*, William Mayo, Heather
Mensch*, Brittany Nieskes, Taryn Nurmela*, Katie Schjoth and
Christine Wilson*.
Grade 7: Kelly Bedner*, Frederick Dakota, Jenna Heikkinen, Jaclyn
Jahfetson, Amber Kamarainen, Mackenzie Keefer, Winter Keefer,
Harley Lindemann*, Taylor Swanson and Josi Thierry . |
Actor Runyeon
presents 'Hollywood vs. Faith' at Sacred Heart May 1
Some are debating
the influence of the media today, but few people are speaking a language
that captures the attention of youth and adults, sheds new light—and
ignites real laughter. Frank Runyeon does. Runyeon will present his
speech, “Hollywood vs. Faith”, at Sacred Heart of Jesus
Parish in L’Anse on Friday, May 1, 2009, at 7 p.m.
Runyeon speaks with humor about his own experiences in the media,
inviting his audience to “look behind the curtain” at the wizards who
have become America’s storytellers. Drawing on examples from his 25
years in television, film, and radio, Runyeon describes with humorous
anecdotes exactly how the media work.
PLES announces
third term honors
Philip LaTendresse
Elementary School releases its term three honor roll for school
year 2008-09.
Grade four: David DesRochers, Jameah Ekdahl, Brooklyn Fish, Chase
Holmquist, Adam Irwin, Brittany Keranen, Ashtin Lindemann, Darla
Mensch, Adebria Miron, Rian Turunen and Sydni Voakes.
Grade four: Tyler Fish, Bailey Froberg, Kollin Kangas, Megan
Kinnunen, Kyle Lake, Nicole Maki, Kerstyn Nurmela, Carsyn Osterman
and Nate Welsh.
Grade five: Raistlin Awonohopay, Brittany Brown, Zack Darcy, Anna
Isaacson, Cortney Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little, Keisha McHenry,
Annaleese Rasanen and Brendan Varline.
|
Grade five: Linnea Bemis,
Madison Clisch, Fred Cote IV, Troy DeCota, Austin Domitrovich,
Ireland Ingram, Samantha Jahfetson, Clayton Luther, Courtney Mayo,
Nathan Miron, Richard (RJ) Morin, Bryce Retaskie and Teal Sackett.
Grade six: Audrey Barrett, Corbin Crittenden, Rebecca Danielson,
Gabrielle Mayo, Kayla Messer, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo,
Jaclyn Wadaga and Sonja Welch.
Grade six: Dylan Betterly, Tessa Gilbertson, Jordan Hatter, Bronz
LeRue, Kelli Massie and Shayla Mayo. |
SHS students
walk for Project ACES
“If you feel the
ground shake slightly on May 6, 2009, do not get nervous. It’s just
millions of children all over the world exercising simultaneously. With
childhood obesity on the rise, and young children showing risk factors
for heart disease, children are starting to fight back,” said MSU Family
Nutrition Program director Marie Harju.
Children, friends and family members and staff from Sacred Heart
School are going to join together for a mile walk on May 6. The walk
will begin at Sacred Heart School with destination being the L’Anse
Waterfront Park and back to the school. It is expected that a minimum of
60 adults and children will be participating. Parents and community
members are invited The walk is set for 12:10 to 12:40 p.m.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009

| TELEHEALTH—Monica Kohn
(right) is one of the many Upper Peninsula patients who have taken
advantage of telehealth technology available through the Upper
Peninsula Telehealth Network used at Marquette General. Kohn is
able to see and speak to Dr. English face-to-face via two-way
interactive technology during her telehealth appointment. The
electronic consultation between BCMH and Marquette saved her a
long drive and several hours of time. |
Electronic
consults save dollars, hours of travel
Monica Kohn of
L’Anse struggled with her weight for years, so when she opted for
bariatric surgery at Marquette General Hospital, the last thing she
wanted to struggle with was traveling for her follow-up appointments,
especially during the winter months.
Recently, through “telehealth” technology, Kohn only had to travel
four miles to Baraga County Memorial Hospital, versus 68 miles to
Marquette General Hospital, to have her six-month post-operative
appointment with Marquette General Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Wayne English.
During her telehealth appointment, Kohn was able to see and speak
to English face-to-face via two-way interactive technology. A camera and
television screen at BCMH and another system in Marquette have routinely
saved many patients hours of lost time and travel expenses.
KBIC-NRC offers
trees
The Keweenaw Bay
Indian Community Natural Resources Committee Department will sponsor its
eighth annual tree and shrub give-away for tribal members in Pequaming
Saturday, May 9, 2009, from 10 a.m. to noon. No early birds allowed, and
the recipient must be present. Limit for receiving trees is two per
person.
Species available are black cherry, sugar maple, red osier dogwood,
riverbank grape, Native American plum, common purple and white lilac,
red and white rugosa rose, blueberry (patriot and northland), heritage
raspberry, apple trees (Jonathon, Jonamac, Lodi, Macoun), and Black Gold
sweet cherry.
Control your PC
Robby Emmert of
Houghton invites beginners and those with some computer experience to
“Get Control of Your PC” and participate in his series of free
instructional computer classes at the Portage Lake District Library.
Emmert is offering this course to the community as his Eagle Scout
project and all are invited to attend.
Emmert will present “Surfing in the UP,” which is a project
designed to provide local communities with basic computer knowledge
including email, internet browsing, data management, Office programs
such as Word and Excel, and music and video management.
Everyone is invited to attend library events and presentations are
free. For more information, call the library at 482-4570.
Fest celebrates
earth
Celebrate Earth Day
and help support arts and art entrepreneurship at Finlandia University’s
second annual Fusion Fest Saturday, April 18, 2009, at Finlandia’s
Jutila Center campus, Hancock.
Fusion Fest activities will take place from noon to 6 p.m.
Admission is free. A community dance will follow from 6 to 8 p.m.
Health Dept.
can help smokers stop
“There has never
been a better time to quit smoking.
“On April 1 the federal cigarette tax increased by 62 cents to a
total of $1.01 per pack, to fund the expansion of the State Children’s
Health Insurance Program that was signed into law earlier this year,”
Western UP Health Department Prevention Specialist Gail Ploe said. “A
survey, commissioned by the marketers of Nicorette, showed 70 percent of
smokers say that the current price of cigarettes is already very
expensive and is one of their main concerns about smoking, second only
to health concerns,” Ploe added.
Bay Cliff
registering campers for 2009
Every summer
approximately 180 children, ages 3 to 17, call Bay Cliff Health Camp
home for seven weeks of therapy, activities, friendships and fun;
preschoolers attend for three and a half weeks. Through many
experiences, campers learn new skills and work towards goals, that they
themselves help develop. These experiences and new skills help them lead
a fuller, more independent life.
Bay Cliff, located in Big Bay, is the only program of its kind in
the United States and priority for enrollment goes to the kids of the
Upper Peninsula! Every UP county is represented. In fact, over 12,000
children, from all parts of the UP have attended Bay Cliff since it
started in 1934. When space is available, applicants who live outside of
the UP are considered.
Jukkala
receives award
Gabby Jukkala of
Pelkie, has received the Lake Superior Academic Excellence Scholarship
from Northland College in Ashland, WI. The Lake Superior Academic
Excellence Scholarship is awarded to students for exceptional academic
achievement.
Jukkala, the daughter of Jennie and Ronald Jukkala, is a senior at
Baraga High School. Jukkala is involved in volleyball, basketball,
track, National Honor Society, International Club and Drama Club. After
high school, she intends to pursue her interest in biology.
Nordic film
series continues
The Finlandia
University Nordic Film Series continues Thursday, April 16, with the
2005 film, “Sweet Land.” Showings are at 2 and 6 p.m. at the Finnish
American Heritage Center, Hancock.
“Sweet Land,” filmed on location in southern Minnesota, is a
poignant and lyrical celebration of land, love, and the American
immigrant experience. It was written and directed by Minnesota native
Ali Selim, and is based on the short story, “A Gravestone Made of Wheat”
by Minnesotan Will Weaver.
MI Works offers
jobs for youth
Michigan Works! is
providing an opportunity for area youth to earn money this summer while
learning more about careers that interest them through its “Put Some
Green in Your Jeans” campaign.
Through this effort, qualifying local youth age 14-24 have an
opportunity to be placed at work sites that have jobs which match their
interests and career goals.
Some work experiences will be in project-based learning
environments that will require the youth to work in teams and research,
organize and strategize to achieve a definable goal while other work
experiences will be at individual worksite locations.
The Michigan Works! campaign is designed to provide youth an opportunity
to learn about occupations, improve future job prospects and offer
exposure to well-supervised work experiences and other employment
related services while earning money this summer.
Call Michigan Works! at 800-562-4808 by April 27 for a
pre-application or visit www.jobforce.org.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Winning
essayists put grief into words
The Community
Coalition on Grief and Bereavement announced winners in its recent
contest where participants expressed personal grief through the written
word.
Students and adults from Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, and Ontonagon
counties were asked to submit a short story, poem or essay expressing
personal grief.
The winners received an engraved plaque and an invitation to read
their entry at a reception held at Finlandia University Heritage Center
in Hancock on Thursday evening April 2, 2009, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The
public was invited to attend this event to celebrate with the winners,
enjoy refreshments, music and meet the members of the coalition.
Community
schools cite scholars
L’Anse-Baraga
Community Schools Alternative Education announces its third quarter
honor roll for 2008-09: Harley Finnerty and David Maki.
L’Anse-Baraga Community Schools Adult Education announces its third
quarter honor roll for 2008-09. Peggy Cadeau, Sondra Chapman, David
Crum, Shanda Frank, Julie Gauthier, Jessica Hill, Ashley Hine, Steven
Lokers, Peggy Marcotte, Robert Moilanen, Jordan Pyykkonen and Lisa
Vokoviak.
SHS lists honor
roll
Sacred Heart School
has announced its honor roll for the third quarter.
Fourth grade: Victoria Francois, Ashok Ravindran, Carrie Schwartz
and Brandt Tembruell.
Fifth grade: Sierra Frank, Jacob Freeman, Colin Jackson, Emily
Magaraggia, Lila Morningstar and Jessica Velmer.
Sixth grade: Lauren Jackson and Elsa Schwartz.
Gardener to
share wisdom
The Portage Lake
District Library will offer the fourth program of its gardening through
the winter series. Master Gardener Lynn Watson will present “Sun, Soil,
and Seeds” on Thursday, April 9, at 7 p.m. in the community room.
Watson will teach participants how to get the most from their
gardening efforts. She will show how good garden beginnings start with
site selection and explain how to plan flowers and vegetables in
relation to minimum and maximum sun and shade orientation. For those who
have a garden challenged site, she will explain the technique of
vertical gardening and show how to grow vegetables up rather than out.
Watson will also discuss the advantages of container gardening if a poor
site location exists.
Young
scientists bring fair projects to Tech
Three hundred and
sixty students in grades 4-8 participated in the 11th Annual Western
Upper Peninsula Science Fair on Monday, March 30, 2009, at Michigan
Tech’s Memorial Union Ballroom (MUB). Projects entered in the Western UP
Science Fair were on public display.
Students in grades 4-8 submitted projects on experiments they
conducted using the scientific method. They were judged on the
scientific content of their written report, a display and an oral
interview with two judges. Approximately 75 Michigan Tech faculty,
students and staff, and community volunteers served as judges.

| AUTHOR--Bill VanKosky of
Marquette wrote a detailed story of Michigamme’s historic 1900
steam fire engine which was highlighted in the March/April issue
of Michigan History. The engine is in the background. |
Magazine
features Michigamme steamer
The Michigan History
magazine, published by the State of Michigan, featured Michigamme’s 1900
steam fire engine in its 2009 March/April issue. The history of the 1900
steamer was written and submitted to the magazine by author, Bill
VanKoskey of Marquette.
VanKoskey captures the 30-year journey to unearth and return the
historical artifact back home to Michigamme. The committee formed to
acquire the steamer feels honored to be recognized in the magazine.
The group continually strives to pay back the $150,000 they
borrowed to procure the 1900 fire engine. A huge rummage sale begins
Memorial Day weekend, the third annual Art Auction & Strawberry Social
will take place Saturday, July 11, 2009. Many other events are scheduled
throughout the year. The committee has raised $120,000 so far, but will
need to raise at least $50,000 plus to pay off the loan.
'Steam Team'
earns Peter White award
The Michigamme
Museum 1900 Steamer Committee, better known as the “Steam Team”,
received the Peter White Award on Feb. 24, 2009. The Peter White Award
is presented each year by the Marquette History Museum to a group that
makes an outstanding effort to preserve Upper Peninsula history.
The Steam Team received the award for their successful effort to
bring home to Michigamme its original 1900 American Metropolitan Steam
Fire Engine in May of 2007.
The steamer is one of approximately 400 left in the world today of
the 5500 produced over the ages. It is possibly the best example of an
original condition engine in existence.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009

|
TEAM WORK--Gets the job
done at Da Shack by brothers Don, left, and Jason Messer who split
the full-day shift with help in between. Fresh sub sandwiches are
Da Shack’s specialty, and the lunch counter is proving a local hot
spot. An arcade, food and tanning salon make Da Shack a
triple-threat business. |
Da Shack' in
Baraga offers arcade, food, tanning
Da Shack is a new
Baraga business that caters to the kid in us all.
Owned and managed by brothers Don and Jason Messer, the shop on
M-38 and Lyon includes an arcade, lunch counter featuring fresh sub
sandwiches, plus a tanning salon. Don said business in all three areas
has been picking up steam since Da Shack opened about two months back.
“It’s just something Baraga lacked,” Don explained. “The kids were
hanging out at the park, at the parking lot by the ice arena–they needed
a place. We figured we’d start something, get something going.”
L'Anse High
School releases honor roll
L’Anse High School announces
its third quarter honor roll. Names with an asterisk* denote a
4.0.
Seniors: Joseph Augustine, Janell Bianco, Steven Brunet, Courtney
Cadeau, Erin Connor, Rebecca Dufek, Tony Hemmila, Ian Hiltunen, *Sascha
Hirzel, Dillon Hollon, Charles Johnson, Katherine Johnson, Rayann
Kaurala, *Scott Kemppainen, Matthew Korpi, Andrew Koski, Lacey
Lane, Courtney Lloyd, Kristin Mattson, Michael Messer, Tyler
Mille, Daniel Perrault, Frankie Salli, Andrew Schwartz, Shelby
Sikkila, Camille Sliger, Danielle Solberg, Jared Spencer,
Cristopher Stein, Kristin Sullivan, Alex Tarvainen, Franklin
Tehako, Jeanne Tehako, Tori Tikkanen, *Melissa Velmer, Jessica
Walitalo, Jill Witz, and Michelle Wood .
Juniors: Angel Ahola, Dennis Anderson, *Cody Carter, Dylan Cassel,
Gregor Cerne, Jordan Dix, Cassandra Evans, Joseph Fedie, Mitch
Fedie, Nicholas Hendrickson, Isaac Hiltunen, Joshua Johnson, Kylee
Kristo, Samantha Nagele, Patrick Osterman, Dylan Seavoy, Daniel
Sterbenz, Samantha Tollefson, Cassandra Wesner, Thomas Wiideman,
and Michael A. Williams.
Sophomores: Gerald Archambeau, *Rebecca Augustine, Alex Beeler,
David Bier, Carli Chaudier, Katelyn Darcy, |
*Brooke Davis, Nicole
Delene, Cody Dingeldey, Jacqueline Dove, Breanne Fish, Deanna
Fooce, *Sarah Hansen, Jake Jaeger, Aleah Kissel, *Paige Koskinen,
Jessica Lawson, Samantha Lloyd, Christopher Mayo, Nicholas Mayo,
*Tara Meleen, *Rebecca Mill, Stacy Motley, Carson Newland, Michael
Olsen, Misty Owens, Nicole Parker, Kyle Reason, Rachel Rexford,
Joseph Richard, Jacob Schwartz, Casey Sliger, *Jaclyn Sliger,
Samuel Soto, Kortney Tarvainen, Travis Tollefson, Kristopher
Turunen, and Daniel Walbridge.
Freshman: Sierra Ayres, Joshua Borgen, Acacia Copley, Cassandra
Dix, Klaire Fedie, Scott Gerzetich, Joslyn Hatfield, Carter
Hendricks, Melody Hirzel, Samantha Juntunen, Samantha Koski,
Mckenna Lane, Miles Loosemore, Nathan Loosemore, Claire Cram
Mackenzie, Jessica Makela, Sarah Mars, Hope Minton, Deena Marie
Misegan, Jessica Nagele, Jordan Newland, Amanda Rantala, Stephanie
Raymond, Brialle Ringer, Cynthia Robacker, John Smith, Autumn
Swanson, Emma Tembreull, Derek Treadeau, Alex Vanwagner, Andrew
Vassallo, Dillon Velmer, Anthony Wakeham, and Molly Wilder.
|
GVSU releases
honors
Grand Valley State
University announces the names of students who were placed on the dean’s
list for the Fall 2008 semester. The list includes those students who
have maintained a 3.5 grade point average and been enrolled in a minimum
of 12 credits. The honor is noted on the students’ official records.
Area students honored for the fall semester include:
Baraga--Kelly Selden.
L’Anse--Erin Brennan.
Iron County
Hospital now called 'Northstar'
Iron County
Community Hospital is changing its name to NORTHSTAR Health System.
“Over the last year, the hospital has undergone extensive
transformations. We have recruited new primary care and specialty
physicians, we have implemented a new customer service program, we have
launched a $17 million construction project and we are about to break
ground on a new physician clinic,” said Lindsay Harmon Director of
Marketing.
L'Anse Middle
School releases honor roll
The L’Anse Middle School
announces its third marking period honors for 2008-09. Names with
an asterisk* indicated all A’s.
Grade six: Emily Ahola*, Domique Aleo, Theodore Ayres, Ashely
Bugni, Nickolas Cronkright, Jonathon DesLaurier, Raven Dolan,
Breanna Dudo, Madeline Etelmaki, Jacob Fedie, Ashley Giddings,
Joshua Hansen, Karli Hoggard, Zachary Hulkonen, Lindsey Hulkonen,
Kelsey Kemppainen, Colton Lahti, Jill Lawson, Vanessa LeClaire,
Halsey Lupro, Joseph McCarthy, Raymond Miron, Nicole Rossi, Alexus
Rule, Genevieve Smith*, Skyleigh Supanich, Lucas Tarvainen, Shayla
Truesdell, Allison Waara and Abbey Younggren.
Grade seven: Joshua Barnett, Casey Carter*, Jadon Delene, Keith
Denomie, Samantha Hatfield, Lauren Hendricks, Jenna Hiltunen,
Megan Johnson, Samantha Krajnak, Kayla LaBerge, |
Tristan Leaf, Eva Lind,
Jonathon Magaraggia, Abby Marinich, Brett Martinez, Kayla Nagele,
Alyssa Norback, Jacob Ostermeyer*, Daniel Perrow, Valerie Rajala,
Kelsey Ross, Rebecca Roth, Brandon Scroggs, Cierra Sliger,
Madissen Swanson, Shawnia Taisto, Abbey Tembruell* and Megan
VanWagner.
Grade eight: Charlie Beer, Samantha Cangemi, Jordan Collins,
Amanda Dufek, Zachary Evans, Gregory Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy,
Mercie Hackeman, Joey Hansen, Alexandra Hatfield, Jacob Hiltunen,
Rebecca Hulkonen, Brianna Koski, Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson,
Rachel Maurer, Brandon Maxey, Brianna Mayo, Heather McCarthy,
Derek Meleen, Alexis Reilley, Logan Roe, Jeffery Roth, Christian
Salvito, Mary Schwartz, Ryan Treadeau and Michaela Velmer. |
Wirtanen
watercolors reflect moods of UP
An exhibit of work
by watercolorist Chris Wirtanen is featured at the Finlandia University
Reflection Gallery through April 10, 2009. An opening reception and an
artist’s talk will take place at the gallery Thursday, April 2, at 1
p.m.
Wirtanen says his watercolors reflect the many moods of Michigan’s
Upper Peninsula. His impressions of the rugged landscape and stark
beauty of his familiar haunts are difficult to categorize, and he shuns
the idea of developing a ‘style.’ He describes his paintings as a
reaction to the moment.
“I have no particular approach,” confirms Wirtanen. “Whatever I am
about at that instant, I will paint.”
CJ releases
honors
CJ Sullivan Elementary
School announces the honor roll for the third marking period.
Names with an asterisk indicate all A’s.
Grade 4: Antonio Aleo, Aaron Altz, Damion Back, Nicholas Carter,
Aaron Collins, Canyon Delene, Ryan Delene, Bailey Denomie, Shay
Ekdahl*, Faith Eliason, Brian Fedie, Lauren Gabe, Laura Gransell,
Dylan Grentz, Winter Haataja, Christopher Harden, Dylan Harden,
Dana Hiltunen, Grace Hoskins, Samantha Johnson, James Juntunen,
Katlyn King, Justice Kinnunen, April Koivu, Maegan Kraft, Sabrina
Laux, Kiersten Loonsfoot, Michael Lytikainen, Caitlyn Menge, David
Olson, Emma Ostermeyer, Katie Parker, |
Justin Rajala, Olivia Reini,
Grayson Roe, Christopher Schjoth, Lauryn Schneider, Caleb Scroggs,
Chase Sullivan, Brook Thomas* and Emmanuel Thompson.
Grade 5: Ryan Beauprey, Emily Beer, Madison Bianco, Kevin Brazeau,
Jay Bugni, Porter Davis, Brittny Delene, Samuel DIx, Erin Elmblad,
Lauren Elmblad, Joseph Hansen, Tucker Hemmila, Dana Hochstein,
Rejean Houle, Richard Juntunen, Brandon Koski*, Anthony LaFernier,
Lana Lind, Olivia Lohmann, Brett Mattson, Rachel Mills, Brianna
Perry, Philip Pyykkonen, Piage Risku, Jessica Rossi, Megan Salvito,
Valerie Sliger and Taryn Taisto. |
Offer
scholarships for mental health
The Rice Memorial
Clinic Foundation is offering Community Mental Health Careers
Scholarship Awards again this year.
The foundation established the program in 1992 to promote careers
in professions related to Community Mental Health.
A $500 scholarship is available to a graduating senior from each of
the 15 high schools in Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw and Ontonagon
counties, the area served by Copper Country Mental Health Services
Board.
C.J. students
win contest
The Community
Coalition on Grief and Bereavement announced the winners of the 2009 Art
from the Grieving Heart competition. Students and adults from Houghton,
Keweenaw, Baraga, and Ontonagon counties were asked to submit a short
story, poem or essay expressing personal grief from a loss.
Judging took place resulting in winners in four categories. The
second grade winner is Jaycie Forcia from CJ Sullivan Elementary School
in L’Anse. The fourth grade winner is Emma Ostemieyer from CJ Sullivan.
Apply for
electrical program
The Midwest
Skills Development Center’s Electrical Line Technician Program is still
accepting applications for Fall 2009 enrollment.
The Electrical Line Technician Program is a one year technical
diploma program that prepares students to install, maintain and operate
electrical systems to supply electric energy to residential, commercial,
industrial customers, and joint gas and electric underground generation
facilities.
W-UP Healthcare
offers insurance
Western UP
Healthcare Access Coalition (WUPHAC) is one of five local
access-to-health-care coalitions.
Coalitions are currently serving uninsured working-age adult
residents from UP counties, enrolling patients around the region.
Nonprofit community-based organizations, the coalitions connect
qualifying adults age 19 to 64 with volunteered care and screening from
medical professionals and free or low-cost prescription medications
donated by pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.
Open Adult
Benefits Program
Michigan Department
of Community Health (MDCH) has announced a time-limited open enrollment
for the Adult Benefits Waiver (ABW) program. The ABW program provides
basic health insurance coverage to residents of the State of Michigan
with countable incomes at or below 35 percent of the Federal Poverty
Level (FPL).
Adults without dependent children and who are under the age of 65,
do not have private insurance, do not qualify for Medicaid, and have a
gross monthly income between $0-580 (for an individual) and $0-716 (for
a two-person household) may be eligible for the ABW program. A
self-screening tool is available at:
http://www.mfia.state.mi.us/mars/ez_track/MARS000.asp
UP hardwood
floor in NCAA Final Four
As most eyes focus
on the scoreboard at the NCAA Final Four at Ford Field in Detroit, State
Representatives Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) and Judy Nerat (D-Menominee) will
be checking out the craftsmanship of the floor. Connor Sports Flooring,
which operates a lumber mill in Amasa in the Upper Peninsula, is the
exclusive lumber supplier for the courts at both the men’s and women’s
Final Four games.
“I want to commend the hard-working men and women at Connor Sports
Flooring for putting the UP on the map as a leader in sports flooring,”
Lahti said. “This Michigan company took a natural resource from
Michigan-our wood-and created something that will be seen by millions.”
Wednesday, March 25, 2009

|
GRATEFULLY RECEIVED--Jim
Dompier, right, board member of the St. Vincent DePaul store in
L’Anse, gratefully receives funds raised by students to benefit
the store and its many clients from Ross LaPlante, left. |
Students
projects lead to donations
A long-term eighth
grade project in Scott Schwarz’ Baraga English class has produced
donations to be used toward the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry.
The St. Vincent board member and volunteer told the students their
community work will result in 1,000 pounds of food to be donated to
local people in need in coming months. Students raised cash donations by
earning funds by collecting returnable cans and bottles.
Students were under the direction of Northern Michigan University
student teacher Amanda (Selden) Rinkinen, of L’Anse. While student
teaching in Schwarz’ class she taught a Holocaust unit and assigned
students to read “The Diary of Anne Frank”.
Offering $1,000
to graduates
Jean LaBerge,
Executive Director of the Baraga-Houghton-Keweenaw Community Action
Agency announced that the local CAA is awarding nine $1,000 scholarships
to graduating seniors attending each of the nine area high schools. This
is the second year the CAA has offered scholarships throughout its three
county service area.
LaBerge said awards are the result of a partnership arrangement
between the CAA and the Western Upper Peninsula Food Bank (Houghton).
LaBerge noted that all funding for the scholarships is made possible
through revenue derived from the sale of Food Bank product to eligible
non-profit organizations in Iron, Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Baraga,
and Keweenaw counties.
Ice contest on
tap
When will be the
first time the ice leaves Keweenaw Bay for at least 24 hours this
spring? Pick the right date and time and you could be a hundred dollars
richer.
Diane Gallagher, manager of The Canteen bar and grill in L’Anse
said the pub is running a contest with all generated funds earmarked for
the ongoing L’Anse Sports Complex project. Gallagher explained anyone
can enter the contest for a dollar a square. Each square has a date and
an hour and the contest runs through May 21.
Girl Scouts set
cookie sale at CJ
Girl Scouts of the
Northwestern Great Lakes will be hosting booth sales from Friday, March
13 – Sunday, April 26. The Girl Scout Cookie Program provides an
opportunity for girls to discover their own entrepreneurial skills,
connect with others through teamwork, and take action by achieving their
individual goals as well as their troop goals.
The activity of selling cookies is directly related to our purpose
of helping all girls realize their full potential and become strong,
confident, and resourceful citizens.
Kemppainen-Maki
joins Century 21
Bonnie Kemppainen-Maki
is the newest real estate agent at CENTURY 21 North Country Agency. She
is able to offer buyer and seller representation and can offer the
benefits of programs like CENTURY 21 Connections, which can help with
qualifying for a mortgage to saving on moving costs.
“We are very proud to have Bonnie join our team of professional
REALTORS® which led the Keweenaw MLS in total sales again in 2008”, said
Dave Jukuri, Broker.
Organic farmers
meet April 1 in Chassell
The idea that
“Organic Agriculture Pays, and It Pays Well” deserves to be considered
by farmers across the UP, including established, conventional farms,
growers using organic practices and non-farming landowners looking for
enterprises to put their fields to use.
Three similar meetings will be held in different UP locations as
follows:
• Monday, March 30, 2009: Bruce Township Hall, 3156 E. 12 Mile Road,
Dafter, MI
• Tuesday, March 31, 2009: Bay College, Escanaba, Room 952, Heirman
Center.
• Wednesday, April 1, 2009: Chassell Township Hall, 22115 7th Street,
Chassell, MI
St Ann hosts
Parish Mission
Father Corbin Eddy
will preach the 2009 Parish Mission at St. Ann Church, Baraga.
This year, Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. Ann and The Most Holy Name of
Jesus/ Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Parishes will reflect and pray together
on how Paul’s experience of conversion, transformation, and commitment
can characterize people’s lives.
The Mission will be held at St. Ann Church in Baraga on Sunday,
March 29; Monday, March 30; Tuesday, March 31; and Wednesday, April 1
from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each night.
Ministers
filling in
The Keweenaw
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship will host a series of visiting
ministers during the spring while their minister is on sabbatical. The
first in the series was the Rev. Roger Bertschausen from the Fox Valley
UU Fellowship, Appleton, WI, on Sunday, March 22, 2009,
On March 29 the Rev. Paul Beckel, First Church of Wausau, WI,
“Social Graces, Unwrapped”, April 5, the Rev. Patt Herdklotz, Tacoma,
WA, May 3, the Rev. Karen Gustafson, First UU Society, Madison, WI,
(former minister in Duluth, MN).
Wednesday, March 18, 2009

| SING-A-LONG--Kelly Erickson, right, is pictured
with l-r: Sami Heikkinen, Brandon Dove (with his back to the
camera), Desi Bemis, Erik Conte, Kelsi Nankervis and Joey Roy.
|
Arvon students
enjoy sleepover at school
As with all seasoned
UPers, we here at Arvon Township School find that the weather causes us
to practice flexibility. Due to inclement weather, our annual school
sleepover was postponed until March 5, 2009. But spirits were not
dampened. We still had a fun and memorable evening and pajama day.
We began the evening with our typical After School Program, making
a snowman outside and creating recycled boats inside. The students
worked in teams, using recycled materials to construct boats that would
float. Competition was fierce as they compared results.
International
travel club sponsors sale
The L’Anse
International Travel Club will be holding a fundraising rummage
sale/bake sale on Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the K of C
Hall in L’Anse.
It’s multi-family! The club will be traveling to Germany, Austria and
Switzerland in the summer of 2010.
Meeting
supports caregivers
The Alzheimer’s
Association will conduct its Annual Caregiver Education Conference,
“Triumphs and Challenges of Caregiving,” on Monday, April 20, 2009, at
Northern Michigan University’s Great Lakes Room, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. eastern time.
The keynote speaker is Dr. Bruno Giordani, Ph.D., Director of
Neuropsychology at the University of Michigan Medical School.
This annual conference is designed to educate caregivers, family
members, and professionals who provide care to a person with dementia,
Alzheimer’s or any serious illness.
Weight loss
challenge to focus on the future
As the BCMH
Melt-Down enters its final four weeks it is important for participants
to examine the changes they have made to accomplish their weight loss
thus far. Many individuals have made positive dietary and exercise
changes, and it is important to continue these changes once the
challenge has ended. For many individuals, taking the weight off is not
nearly as difficult as it is to maintain that loss.
Perhaps one of the best ways to keep your calorie intake in control
is to plan your meals in advance. How often do you come home from work,
starving, with no idea what you will make for dinner?
Lazzari on list
Christina Lazzari,
of Watton, earned the distinction of being included on the Lake Superior
State University Dean’s List for the Fall 2008 semester.
To make the Dean’s List, students must achieve a 3.5 grade point
average for the semester on a 4.0 scale. Lazzari is a senior studying
biology.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Shelter Home
counselor gives comfort, hope
Marie Salo makes
sure that victims of domestic violence always have someone to turn to.
Salo has been on board as a counselor at the Baraga County Shelter
Home in L’Anse for the past 17 years. Hired fresh out of college, she’s
earned continuing credits in the trenches as she guides victims of
domestic violence back from the brink.
“I started with my regular associates degree, then got my bachelors
degree in rural human services from Suomi,” Salo said. “It was the last
graduating class before it became Finlandia University–I believe I was
the oldest graduate at 58.”
Spring play
season opens at BHS, LHS
High school play
fans will be entertained by Baraga and L’Anse plays coming up. Baraga’s
spring play is scheduled this weekend on Friday and Saturday, March
13-14. L’Anse’s play will be staged on the weekend of March 27, 28 and
29, 2009.
Baraga Drama Club presents “Jerry Finnegan’s Sister” this Friday
and Saturday. Emily Marie, the AmeriCorps worker at the Pelkie school,
will direct the two-person play. Tyler LaTendresse and Ashley Poehls
star in the production.
“It’s about a boy and girl who grow up next door to each other. The
boy is now 23 and the girl, 22,” Marie explained. “The boy likes the
girl but always says the wrong thing. It’s a romantic comedy.”
The Baraga play takes place in the big gym. Cost of admission is
$2. The play starts each night, March 13 and 14, at 7 p.m.
The L’Anse High School spring production is “Just Another High
School Play”. The play is directed by Denise Laakko. The L’Anse
High School Drama Club presents the play at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and
Sunday, March 27-29.
The L’Anse play takes place on the stage at the school cafetorium.
Tickets will be available at the door for $3 for students and $5 for
adults.

|
C.J. Sullivan Elementary
fifth grade science students have been learning about animal
adaptations. Using snowshoes funded through the Lake Superior
Stewardship Initiative, students have spent several days in the
school forest identifying trees, searching for overwintering
insects, and learning how animals are adapted for our harsh
winters. Above, l-r, Joe Hansen, Jessica Rossi, and Kylene Almli
investigate possible habitat and food sources for a cottontail
rabbit. |
Students busy
as days grow longer, school year shorter
The days may be
getting longer, but our school year is getting shorter. March 20 ends
our third marking period, and parent teacher conferences will follow the
next week, on Thursday, Mar. 26, 2009. Every classroom is working hard
to complete projects and meet goals before that time.
Kindergarten news
Kindergarten has been a flurry of activity. As winter draws on we
have found many ways to stay warm while learning. We celebrated our
100th day of school with many learning activities that has us laughing,
working together and counting to 100.
Students learned how to be a good friend to each other with our
Valentine celebration. As we approach spring (hopefully) Kindergartners
are celebrating our reading accomplishments by participating in March is
Reading Month activities. Students are making leaps and bounds in both
their reading and math skills.
Quilters go
green for St. Patrick's
St. Patrick’s Day
and National Quilt Day will be celebrated jointly Tuesday, Mar. 17,
2009, when Carrie Jacobs-Bond Composing Threaders host an open house
from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Grace Covenant Church, 316 Jasper Street, Iron
River.
There will be “wearin’ of the green” by all who wish, green food
and drink, sewing and quilting with more than just green. There will be
no “green” $ to enter or register for door prizes. All is free with an
ample parking lot.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009

|
OFF TO STATE!--L’Anse
HOSA members, l-r, Jessica Walitalo, Holly Supanich, Rebecca Dufek,
Melissa Velmer, Chelsea Paynter, Kylee Kristo, Courtney Cadeau,
Samantha Tollefson and Shelby Sikkila will advance to state
competition in Traverse City in April. |
Health
Occupations students compete
Nine L’Anse High
School HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) member have
qualified for state competition after competing regionally at Findlandia
University Feb. 5.
Included in the group are Jessica Walitalo, Rebecca Dufek, Chelsea
Paynter, Courtney Cadeau, Shelby Sikkila, Holly Supanich, Melissa Velmer,
Kylee Kristo and Samantha Tollefson. L’Anse HOSA adviser Laura Schneider
explained HOSA is a leadership organization that helps students develop
skills in communication, leadership, teamwork and social responsibility
while focusing on health-related curriculum.
Schneider noted that her entire group of students qualified for
state competition. This year’s state event is scheduled for April 23-24
in downstate Traverse City.
Financial aide
for families
Michigan State
University Extension is offering the program, “Dealing with Family
Finances in Tough Times” in Baraga on March 5, 2009. The Baraga County
MSUE educational program can help families deal with finances in these
tough times. “The program will focus on accessing local resources and
provide information on planning, budgeting, dealing with creditors,
avoiding foreclosure, and cost saving tips,” Extension Director Mike
Jensen said.
“The program is free and open to all. We do ask that you make a
reservation as seating will be limited.”
The Thursday, March 5, program runs from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Baraga
Best Western Lakeside Inn. Call the MSU Extension Office in Baraga
County at 524-6300 to reserve a seat. Seating will be limited to 40
participants. Reservations are required.
MDOT offers
engineering internships, scholarships
High school seniors
graduating in 2009 can now apply for paid summer internship positions
with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Upon completion
of the seven-week program, students will receive a $2,500 scholarship to
one of the seven participating civil engineering colleges or
universities of their choice.
The Transportation and Civil Engineering (TRAC) Pipeline Internship
program is designed to interest high school students in transportation
and civil engineering careers. MDOT is offering the Pipeline program to
help students learn about civil engineering through a series of
assignments, under the direction of a civil engineer, selected to aid in
career decision making.
Elect new
Bishop to Diocese
At a special
convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan on Feb. 21,
2009, at St. Stephen’s Church in Escanaba, a new bishop was elected and
a Episcopal Ministry Support Team was affirmed.
The 76 delegates representing 23 of the 27 congregations affirmed
the choice of Kevin Thew Forrester as the diocese’s next bishop. He
joined the Diocese as Ministry Development Coordinator in 2001 and in
2007 became Rector/Ministry Developer at St. Paul’s Church in Marquette
and St. John’s Church in Negaunee. Thew Forrester will hold the title of
“Bishop/Ministry Developer” and the affirmed Episcopal Ministry Support
Team (EMST) will work as partners with him in episcopal oversight of the
diocese.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009

| SOLO AND ENSEMBLE
PARTICIPANTS--L’Anse junior and senior high school sent this large
group to MSBOA Solo and Ensemble which L’Anse hosted earlier this
month. Five from the group of high school members earned top
ratings at the district level and now advance to state
competition. That event is scheduled for March 28 in Escanaba. |
L'Anse band
hosts MSBOA event
L’Anse’s junior and
senior high school band not only hosted this year’s regional Michigan
School Band and Orchestra Association’s (MSBOA) Solo and Ensemble, five
high school musicians earned top ratings and will compete at the state
level in Escanaba on March 28, 2009.
L’Anse band director Aaron VanDusen noted that a good number of
junior high musicians also received ratings of I but only high school
students with that rating are invited to participate in State Solo and
Ensemble.
High school students receiving a I rating include-Rebecca
Augustine, flute solo; Sarah Mars, flute solo; Jacob Schwartz, timpani
solo; Jordan Dix, saxophone solo; Joe Augustine, tuba solo.
II ratings were obtained by–Cassie Dix, trumpet and piano solo;
Acacia Copley, clarinet solo; Andrew Schwartz, trumpet solo; Matt Korpi,
flute solo; Emma Tembreull, trumpet solo; Sierra Ayres and Molly Wilder,
trumpet duet; Gary Gagnier, trombone solo; Ian Hiltunen and Andrew
Schwartz, trumpet duet; Matt Korpi and Sarah Mars, flute duet; Amanda
Rantala and Acacia Copley, woodwind duet; Chris Mayo, bass clarinet
solo.
Brittney Kemppainen received a III rating. Rebecca Augustine and
Cassie Dix competed in a violin duet but received no rating.
At the junior high level, those receiving a I rating
included–Heather McCarthy, snare drum solo; Charlotte Chosa Evans, flute
solo; Jenna Hiltunen, alto-saxophone solo. II ratings were given to–Mary
Schwartz, timpani solo; Brandon Scroggs, snare drum solo; Lauren
Hendricks and Abby Marinich, woodwind duet; Samantha Hatfield, bass
clarinet solo, Alix Puwal, clarinet solo.
Rating III recipients included–Alix Puwal, Jenna Hiltunen and
Rebecca Roth, woodwind trio; Eva Lind and Kaila Copley, woodwind duet.
'DUMP' old meds
properly
Copper Country
Mental Health Services Institute will be providing a D.U.M.P. (Discard
of Unused Medications Promptly) program during the Western UP District
Health Department’s senior health screening at Baragaland Senior Center,
on Mar. 19, 2009, from 9-11:30 a.m.
Seniors, can bring unused and outdated medications and they will be
safely disposed of. Seniors can register for prizes to be given away.
“DUMP” is funded through the Western UP Substance Abuse Services
Coordinating Agency. For more information, call the Aging Services
Coordinator at the Institute at 482-4880.
Central honors
students
Central Michigan
University’s fall semester honors list includes two students from the
Baraga County area.
They earned 3.5 (on a 4.0) scale and higher grade point averages.
The fall semester at CMU, in Mount Pleasant ended in December, 2008.
Making the honors list are Victoria Santii, a senior from Baraga;
and Elizabeth Smith, a freshman from L’Anse.
Invite students
to compete in National History Day at Tech
Students in grades 4
through 12 are invited to participate in the National History Day
competition again in 2009. Through exhibits, research papers,
performances, web sites or documentaries, students’ creations will
center around this year’s theme of “The Individual in History.”
Starting with regional competitions around the state, winning
entries may move on to the state finals competition in April, and could
continue to the national finals at the University of Maryland in June.
Many Copper Country students have placed at the national level.
The competition for Michigan’s Region 1 is scheduled for Saturday,
Mar. 21, 2009, at the Memorial Union Building at Michigan Technological
University. Region 1 includes twelve counties in the Central and Western
Upper Peninsula, including the Copper Country.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009

| GYM, PLAY AREA–The upper
floor of the old L’Anse nursery school on Meador St. has been
renovated by BHK. A cardio and weight gym awaits BHK parents and
their young children can have a fun time playing in the rest of
the room. Once a church, the building has been renovated upstairs
and down with new kitchen, bath and meeting room facilities. Many
BHK events are now held there. Programs focus on healthy family
events and activities. |
BHK Wellness
Center offers healthy events, activities
The BHK Wellness
Center is bringing more and more families out of the house for health
and fun activities this winter. A special “Winter Family Fun” event
takes place at the L’Anse facility on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2009, from 1-3
p.m.
Snowshoe races, biggest snowman and snowball contests take place
outdoors, and the indoor gym will be open. Hot drinks, snacks and door
prizes will be offered.
The Wellness Center is located in the old church on Meador Street,
L’Anse, that is known by many as the former cooperative nursery school.
Parents banded together to run the center for years, providing a healthy
and fun child care option for working moms and dads.
Children's
author in writing seminar
Local children’s
book author Terri Martin will present the next Finlandia University
Writer’s Journey seminar Thursday, Feb. 19, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the
university’s Chapel of St. Matthew, Hancock.
Through discussion and group participation, Martin will cover
children’s book writing, and fiction writing in general, giving special
attention to discovering the writer’s voice. She will also share tips on
forming a critique group and information about helpful websites.
PLES announces
semester one honors
Philip LaTendresse
Elementary School released its honor roll for the first semester
of 2008/2009 school year.
Grade 4: David DesRochers, Jameah Ekdahl, Brooklyn Fish, Adam
Irwin and Rian Turunen .
Grade 4: Bailey Froberg, Megan Kinnunen, Kyle Lake Nicole Maki,
Kerstyn Nurmela, Carsyn Osterman and Nate Welsh.
Grade 5: Raistlin Awonohopay, Zack Darcy, Anna Isaacson, Cortney
Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little, Skye Loonsfoot, Keisha McHenry,
Annaleese Rasanen and Brendan Varline.
|
Grade 5: Linnea Bemis,
Madison Clisch, Fred Cote IV, Troy DeCota, Austin Domitrovich,
Andrea Haagsma, Ireland Ingram, Samantha Jahfetson, Clayton
Luther, Courtney Mayo, Nathan Miron, Richard (RJ) Morin, Bryce
Retaskie, Teal Sackett and Austin Smith.
Grade 6: Corbin Crittenden, Rebecca Danielson, Gabrielle Mayo,
Kayla Messer, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo, Jaclyn Wadaga and
Sonja Welch .
Grade 6: Dylan Betterly, Kelli Massie and Michael Turunen. |
NMU names grads
Northern Michigan
University announces its graduates. The following students from our area
satisfied their degree requirements in December 2008.
Associate Degree:
Benjamin Johnson, Baraga, AAS Building Technology; Kimberly Peterson,
L’Anse, AB Health Information Processing.
Baccalaureate Degree:
Tracy LaPlante, Baraga, BS Accounting.
White Water at
Rozsa in 'Echoes of the North
On Saturday, Feb.
21, 2009, at the Rozsa Center in Houghton, the Keweenaw Symphony
Orchestra will present “Echoes of the North,” a musical collaboration
between the KSO and conductor Milton Olsson, bassist-composer Evan Premo,
soprano Mary Bonhag, Nordic fiddler Laurel Premo, and White Water. The
concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 (general public) and $7 for
age 18 and under (MTU students are admitted free). To place ticket
orders on-line, visit
http://www.rozsa.mtu.edu
Backyard
Beekeeping workshops to be held
Ontonagon County MSU
Extension is once again teaming up with Les McBean, owner of White Birch
Apiary in Bruce Crossing, to offer two “Backyard Beekeeping Workshops”.
The Beginning Beekeeping workshop will be held Saturday, Mar. 14 at
the Ewen-Trout School, 144 Airport Road in Ewen from 10 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. EST. McBean will focus on a year in the life of a beekeeper and
will cover what equipment is needed to get started, kinds of equipment
easily made at home, inspecting your colonies and how to recognize a
queen-right colony, a laying worker or queenless colony.
Seek input on
local transportation issues
A number of
community teenagers and adult volunteers involved in the MSU Extension
4-H Youth Program in Baraga County have identified the critical need of
transportation as limiting their ability to participate in positive
activities and educational opportunities. They have begun to explore a
number of potential solutions.
A public meeting is set for Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009, at 7 p.m. at
the L’Anse Village Council Chambers.
Upcoming
writing workshops at Covington and KBOCC
Starting Feb. 21,
2009, a series of free Life and Personal History Writing workshops, led
by Finlandia University professor and Paloheimo Scholar Beth Virtanen,
Ph.D., will help participants write their own personal narratives. The
writings may be poems, descriptions of people or places, beginnings of
short stories, personal histories, or memoirs.
“I am hoping people from high school age to senior citizens will
attend one or more of the writing workshops,” said Virtanen.
“Participants will be invited to explore the many perspectives of their
personal stories as part of a collaborative experience to enrich what
they write.”
CC Tobacco
Coalition: 'Through-With-Chew'
Feb. 15-21, 2009,
marks Through With Chew Week, which was established in 1989 by the
American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Inc. In
recognition of the week, the Copper Country Tobacco Coalition joins with
other concerned organizations around the nation in an effort to decrease
use of spit tobacco and raise awareness of the negative health effects
caused by this product.
According to Joan McGowan, RDH, PhD, Chair of Tobacco-Free Michigan
and Coordinator of the Michigan Spit Tobacco Education Program, spit
tobacco and other tobacco products are not a safe alternative to smoking
cigarettes.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009

| DEM BONES--Johnny Perona
exhibits his unique style of playing the bones, a wooden rhythm
instrument. Perona was awarded three apprenticeships through the
MSU Museum so he could pass his skill on to others. |
Perona's
passing leaves void in ethnic music scene
Johnny B. Perona
(Giovanni Batista Perona) died early Sunday morning, Feb. 1, 2009, at
“Our Lady of Mercy Nursing and Rehab Facility” in Hubbell. He had been a
resident for the past 18 months.
Born to Italian immigrant parents in Calumet, Perona was exposed to
many cultures and their music, for which which he had a very keen ear.
Perona gave his first musical performance at the school Christmas
program at the age of 12 on the accordion. He was regarded a virtuoso on
the concertina, accordion, violin, mandolin and guitar. He played
old-time dance music for Italians, French, Finns, Slovenians and
Croatians at local house parties, community dances, taverns and many
music festivals for over 75 years.
NMU honors
released
Northern Michigan
University announces the Dean’s List for the Fall 2008 semester. The
following students from Baraga County qualified with a grade point
average of 3.25-3.99.
Baraga: Kelley Artley, Richard Knisely, Tracy LaPlante, Jessica
LeClaire, Katherine Massie, Amanda Rinkinen, Eric Van Straten and John
Varline.
L’Anse: Daniel Cavanaugh, Lisa Bennett, Melissa Crebessa, JamieL
Desrochers, Tanya Kayramo, Jarod Kent, Nickolas Lincoln, Ryan Niemela,
Kimberly Peterson and Emily Schwartz.
Pelkie: Jordan Maki and Jonas Wolfe.
Watton: Daniel Rajala.
SHS honors
Edwards with Dedicated Service Award
Traditionally during
the Sunday Mass that kicks off Catholic Schools Week, Sacred Heart
School presents a Distinguished Alumnus Award. This year however in
keeping with the theme of Celebrate Service the school presented a
Dedicated Service Award.
Barb Edwards began playing the organ for daily Mass for the
students of Sacred Heart School when it first opened in 1954. She also
has played for the schools Christmas and spring programs in more recent
years as well as at Sunday Masses at Sacred Heart Church.
For over 50 years she has faithfully volunteered her time and
talents to the children and parishioners in the school and church
communities.
Baraga High
School first semester honors
Baraga High School released
its first semester honor roll. Names with an * indicates all A’s.
Grade 12: Jessica Alatalo, Robert Bellaire, Kathryn Danielson,
Derek Dault, Lucas Dolan, Geleah Dowler*, Kalyn Isaacson,
Gabriella Jukkala*, Kyle Kaster, Ashtin Koski, Megan LaPlante,
Alisha Lindblom, Kyle Maki, Stephanie Marshall, Justine Minton,
Ashley Poehls* and Elisa Reynolds.
Grade 11: Ashley Angle*, Erica Bedner*, Jessi DesRochers, Nathan
Eilola*, Rebecca Ellenich, Ariel Gougeon, Ellyn Hurst*, Brian
Johnson*, Michael Jones, Kristin Koski, Brittney Koskinen, Travis
LaTendresse, Paige Maskill*, Jessica Messer, Janelle Paquin,
Rebecca Rasanen*, Ashlee Richards, Matthew Santti, David Seppanen,
Kelly Shanahan*, Kaitlin Tikkanen, Brad Wadaga and Amanda Wuornos.
Grade 10: Tashina Emery-Kauppila, Bryant Froberg*, Serena Goodreau,
Andrea Heikkinen, |
Cameron Ireland-Bratt,
Nicole Keranen, Gina Magaraggia, Megan Turunen, Deana Velmer and
Dollcie Webb*.
Grade 9: Justin Clisch, Savannah Dakota*, Dylan Hemmila, Dustin
Juntunen, Gabriel Mackey, Hunter Maki, Alexandria Mayo*, Jana
Parkila*, Corey Pietila, Rachel Sutherland, Alisha Tilson and
Joshua Turunen.
Grade 8: Nadine Barry, Miranda Coppler, Mariah Fish*, Shannon
Fish*, Alex Gabe, Olivia Ingram*, Jon Kaster, Joann LaBeau,
Rebecca Larson*, Taylor Lindemann, William Mayo, Heather Mensch*,
Brittany Nieskes, Taryn Nurmela, Katie Schjoth, Taylor Tervo and
Christine Wilson*.
Grade 7: Kelly Bedner*, Frederick Dakota, Michael Funke, Jenna
Heikkinen, Dillion Hueckstaedt, Jaclyn Jahfetson, Mackenzie
Keefer, Winter Keefer, Amber Lanala-Tervo, Harley Lindemann*,
Taylor Swanson and Josi Thierry. |
Snowmobile drag
races coming to Sidnaw
The Sno Valley
Riders and Mi-TRALE are going to team up to raise money for the
Ontonagon Habitat for Humanity by hosting a Snowmobile Drag Race. The
MASTERS Sanctioned race will take place at the Sidnaw Airport on
Saturday, Feb 28, 2009.
This year Habitat for Humanity will be building a home for John and
Sandy Smith of Matchwood Township. John Smith is currently residing in a
Long Term Care Unit, and his wife is living in an apartment in the
Village of Ontonagon. Donations to watch and/or compete at the
snowmobile drag races and proceeds from the concession stand will go
toward building the Smith home.
UPEC offers
grants to UP teachers
The Upper Peninsula
Environmental Coalition, the oldest grassroots environmental
organization in the UP, is once again offering grants to UP educators.
The grants are intended to provide students with quality, outdoor
educational experiences.
In the past, grants of up to $500 have been awarded for many
exciting projects: to create new outdoor curricula, a hands-on museum
exhibit, to do water, snow and soil studies, outdoor journals, forest
management plans and stream monitoring. Some of the projects were so
well done, their results have been used by the federal government.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009

| TEA TIME--All decked out
for their Senior Girls Tea in May of 1955 are, l-r, Sharon Soli
Perrow, Vivian Denomme Davis, Betty Niemi Larson, Mary Dudo
Bucklin and Ann Golden Williams. The names, faces and dress
changed, but the tradition of holding a tea party for graduating
L’Anse, Baraga and later, Community Schools senior girls was kept
alive in L’Anse into the early 1990’s. |
Bucklin serves
up memories of Sr. Girls Tea
Do you remember the
Senior Girls Tea? Mary Dudo Bucklin will never forget it.
The tea was a post-WWII tradition that introduced graduating senior
girls from L’Anse and Baraga to a new level of social graces. It was
part treat and part preparation for stepping out into a world much
bigger than Baraga County.
The program varied, but the girls always wore their Sunday best and
enjoyed elegant finger sandwiches, sweets and tea from a silver service.
Autographs were exchanged, and when cameras came into vogue, photos
snapped to preserve the senior girls’ last and finest social.
Honor adult,
alternative ed students
L’Anse-Baraga
Community Schools Alternative Education has announced its second quarter
2008-09 honor roll. Cody Mills was named to the list.
The second quarter, 2008-09, honor roll for the L’Anse-Baraga
Community Schools Adult Education includes: Peggy Cadeau, Shanda Frank,
Brittany Gain, Mark Gain, Julie Gauthier, Amber Pelon and Lisa Vokoviak.
Earn Tech
honors
Michigan Technological
University has released the Dean’s List for the fall 2008
semester, recognizing students who achieve grade point averages of
3.5 or higher. Those earning straight A averages of 4.0 are
indicated by asterisks.
Among the honorees are the following from the Baraga County:
Baraga
Anne Aho* Jr. Social Sciences
Jessica Koski Sr. Social Sciences
Xueling Li Jr. Business Administration
Margarita Nieskes So. Humanities
Joseph Turpeinen Sr. Construction Management
L’Anse
Hilary Cadeau* So. Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Jacob Deschaine Sr. Physics
Kelly Gerzetich Sr. Business Administration
|
Alexander Hirzel Fr.
Humanities
Cassie Kautto Sr. Business Administration
Matt Koski* Jr. Civil Engineering
Scott Michels Sr. Biological Sciences
Celestine Petoskey So. Liberal Arts
Brooke Sirard Sr. Business Administration
Johanna Stout Sr. Business Administration
Jacqueline Walitalo Fr. Biological Sciences
Pelkie
James Orlando Jr, Sr. Biological Sciences
Maija Stenvig* Jr. Exercise Science
Heather Tahtinen Sr. Scientific & Tech Comm (BA)
Watton
Elsa Roberts Sr. Comm and Culture Studies |
Finlandia
honors students
Finlandia University
released its students who, in the Fall 2008 semester, earned grade
point averages from 3.50 to 4.00.
Dean’s List students in the Fall 2008 semester, earned 12 or more
credits, a semester GPA of 3.75 or above, and no grade below a
“C”. The following students from Baraga County are on the Fall
2008 Dean’s List:
Lisa Harden, 3.785, Baraga
Kristen Collins, 3.880, L’Anse
Katelyn Maki, 3.885, L’Anse
|
Marc Marcotte, 3.940, L’Anse
Bobbi Teddy, 3.885, L’Anse
Andrea Mantta, 3.871, Pelkie
Vicki Peterson, 3.931, Pelkie
Chaslyn Duffek, 3.925, Pelkie
Honors List recognizes students who, in the Fall 2008 semester,
earned 12 or more credits, a semester GPA of 3.50-3.749, and no
grade below a “C”. The following students are on the Fall 2008
Honors List from Baraga County:
Michael Wilson, 3.531, Pelkie
Fawntelle Williams, 3.617, Skanee |
Become Master
Gardener
Once again, Copper
Country residents will have the opportunity to be involved in one of the
most intensive and up-to-date horticulture education programs in the
nation.
The 10-week, Michigan Master Gardener Program will be offered this
fall at the MSU Extension Office, 1500 Birch Street, in Hancock. The
course starts on Monday, Mar. 16, 2009, and for each consecutive Monday
evening thereafter through May 18, 2009. The classes will begin at 6:30
p.m and conclude at 9:30-10 p.m.
Brunet joins
Farm Bureau Insurance Co.
Chad Brunet, L’Anse,
has joined Farm Bureau Insurance as a new agent serving this area from
47431 Highway M-26, Houghton.
Brunet recently completed an extensive career development program
for new agents, which prepared him for the state licensing examination
and provided instruction in all areas of property/casualty and life
insurance.
His training included the agent career school at the Farm Bureau
Insurance home office in Lansing. Farm Bureau agents are licensed to
sell all lines of insurance, including life, home, auto, farm,
retirement, and business.
Livestock
meeting is Feb 10
On Tuesday, Feb. 10,
2009, Veterinarian Doctor’s Ben Bartlet and Mike Brunner will be
presenting the Four Keys to a Healthy, Productive & Profitable Heard at
the Extension office in Hancock from 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Topics include several heard health areas and pointers; as well as
an update on what they have learned from the BVD program and needs that
should be addressed in your vaccinating programs.
There is an opportunity for questions and discussions with this
session.
AARP program
offers free tax preparation assistance
With the 2008 tax
season getting underway, local volunteers are gearing up to provide free
income tax assistance and preparation through the AARP Tax Aide Program.
Tax Aide, a free tax preparation service for seniors and low to
moderate income families and individuals, is supported by trained
volunteers serving as Certified Tax Aide Counselors. Services offered by
the Tax Aide Program include the completion and electronic filing of
forms: 1040 & Schedules A, B, D, C-EZ, EIC & R; 1040A & Schedules 1, 2,
3 & EIC; 1O4OEZ and Michigan Income Tax Returns and Credits only
returns.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009

| DEPENDABLE FLEET--Lori
LaFernier stands beside her fleet of four-wheel drive vehicles
used by L.L. Lynx Transport. The new cab company in town offers
affordable transportation plus lockout service, deliveries, day
trips and more. |
New 'L.L. Lynx
Transport' wheels are rolling
Need a ride? Need a
prescription? Need a pizza from a place that doesn't deliver?
L.L. Lynx Transport, Baraga County's new cab business, is living up to
its name by providing a vital link--transportation and delivery
services--to customers in need of wheels. Piloted by Lori LaFernier, the
business was begun about two weeks ago, and its cabs haven't idled much
since.
"The area doesn't have any type of transportation," LaFernier said.
"We figured it could use some."
After a year of planning and development, L.L. Lynx of Baraga
opened its doors to riders Jan. 12, 2009.
LMS releases
2nd period honor roll
L’Anse Middle School
announces the second period honor roll. Names with an * indicate
all A’s.
Grade six: Emily Ahola*, Dominique Aleo, Theodore Ayres, Alyse
Beauprey, Ashely Bugni*, Cynthia Cholette, Nickolas Cronkright,
Jonathon Deslaurier*, Raven Dolan, Breanna Dudo, Madeline
Etelamaki, Jacob Fedie, Ashely Giddings, Autumn Haataja, Joseph
Harju, Karli Hoggard, Zachary Hulkonen, Lindsey Hulkonen, Kelsey
Kemppainen, Colton Lahti, Jill Lawson, Vanessa LeClaire, Halsey
Lupro, Joseph McCarthy, Raymond Miron, Matthew Osterman, Nicole
Rossi, Alexus Rule, Genevieve Smith*, Skyleigh Supanich, Dustin
Syrjala, Lucas Tarvainen, Shayla Truesdell*, Jane Usitalo,
Christopher Varga and Allison Waara.
Grade seven: Casey Carter, Keith Denomie, Samantha Hatfield,
|
Lauren Hendricks, Curtis
Hill, Jenna Hiltunen, Megan Johnson, Samantha Krajnak, Kayla
LaBerge, Tristan Leaf, Jonathon Magaraggia, Abby Marinich, Brett
Martinez, Kayla Nagele, Alyssa Norback, Jacob Ostermeyer, Daniel
Perrow, Valerie Rajala, Kelsey Ross, Rebecca Roth, Brandon Scroggs,
Madissen Swanson, Shawnia Taisto, Abbey Tembreull* and Megan
VanWagner.
Grade eight: Charlie Beer, Samantha Cangemi, Jordan Collins,
Amanda Dufek, Zachary Evans, Gregory Fedie, Cody Goldsworthy,
Mercie Hackeman, Alexandra Hatfield, Jacob Hiltunen, Rebecca
Hulkonen, Brianna Koski, Allison Koskinen, Kelly Larson, Rachel
Maurer, Heather McCarthy, Derek Meleen, Alexis Reilley, Logan Roe,
Jeffery Roth, Christian Salvito, Mary Schwartz, Ryan Treadeau and
Michaela Velmer. |
Earn Tech
degrees
Michigan Tech
honored the achievements of approximately 300 graduates Saturday, Dec.
13, 2008, at Midyear Commencement. A total of 260 undergraduate degrees,
27 master's degrees and 16 PhD degrees will be awarded.
Among them were the following from this area:
Baraga: Keith Herrala, Associate in Applied Science in Electrical
Engineering Technology and Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Technology; Timothy Wilson, Master of Science in Biological Sciences.
L’Anse: Aaron Loosemore, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science; Brooke Sirard, Bachelor of
Science in Business Administration.
Watton: Michael Lazzari, Master of Science in Biological Sciences.
Lazzari
graduates
Michael Lazzari,
Watton, participated in the winter commencement exercises held at
Michigan Technological University on Dec. 13, 2008.
Lazzari received his masters degree in Clinical Laboratory Science
Management, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He is employed at War Memorial
Hospital in Sault Ste. Marie and is pursuing his PhD in Health Education
with A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ.
He is the son of Greg and Karen Lazzari of Watton.
Students take
part in Pro-Life Mass
Students from Sacred
Heart School and the Faith Formation Program of the area’s three
Catholic Churches participated in a very well-attended Pro-Life Mass on
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2009. “The Mass was held in prayer and penance for
sins against life and in remembrance of the 26,000 children who were
victims of abortion in the state of Michigan in 2007. Prayers were
offered for an end to abortion,” said Christy Miron, Faith Formation
coordinator of Sacred Heart, St. Ann’s and Holy Name Catholic churches.
The Mass started with 26 children processing in, each carrying a
white carnation that represented 1,000 deaths by abortion. The flowers
were placed in front of the altar while the church bell was tolled 26
times, once for every 1,000 abortions in Michigan in 2007. Fr. Augustin
George, Pastor, and Fr. George Maki, Associate Pastor, were joined by
Bishop James Garland and Deacons John Cadeau and Bob Wahmhoff. Garland
was the main celebrant for the Mass, and the Knights of Columbus from
the Msgr. Rezek Assembly provided the honor guard.
LHS cites
scholars
L’Anse High School released
term two honor roll. Names with an asterisk indicate all A’s.
Grade 12: Joseph Augustine, Janell Bianco, Steven Brunet, Courtney
Cadeau, Erin Connor, Rebecca Dufek, Tony Hemmila, Ian Hiltunen,
Sascha Hirzel, Dillon Hollon, Katherine Johnson, Rayann Kaurala,
Scott Kemppainen*, Matthew Korpi, Andrew Koski, Lacey Lane,
Courtney Lloyd, James Mars, Kristin Mattson, Tyler Miller, Daniel
Perrault, Andrew Schwartz, Shelby Sikkila, Calmille Sliger, Shawn
Smith, Danielle Solberg, Jared Spencer, Cristopher Stein, Joshua
Stein, Kristin Sullivan, Alexander Tarvainen, Kayla Tarvainen,
Franklin Tehako, Jeanne Tehako, Tori Tikkanen, Mark Usitalo,
Melissa Velmer*, Jessica Walitalo, Sage Wheelock, Jill Witz and
Michelle Wood.
Grade 11: Dennis Angel Ahola, Cody Carter*, Dylan Cassel, Gregor
Cerne, Jordan Dix, Cassandra Evans, Joseph Fedie, Mitch Fedie,
Christian Gagnon, Nicholas Hendrickson, Isaac Hiltunen, Joshua
Johnson, Devinne Kent, Kylee Kristo, Jessica Lane, Parker Miller,
Jacob Misegan, Samantha Nagele, Patrick Osterman, Avery Pyykkonen,
Dylan Seavoy, Daniel Sterbenz, Tyler Sterbenz, Samantha Tollefson,
Cassandra Wesner, Thomas Wiideman and Michael A. Williams.
|
Grade 10: Gerald Archambeau,
Rebecca Augustine*, Alex Beeler, David Bier, Carli Chaudier,
Katelyn Darcy, Brooke Davis, Nicole Delene, Cody Dingeldey,
Jacqueline Dove, Breanne Fish, Deanne Fooce, Sarah Hansen*, Jake
Jaeger, Aleah Kissel, Paige Koskinen*, Jessica Lawson, Samantha
Lloyd, Christopher Mayo, Tara Meleen*, Rebecca Mills*, Stacy
Motley, Jacey Mukka, Carson Newland, Michael Oslen, Misty Owens,
Nicole Parker, Rachel Rexford, Joseph Richard, Jacob Schwartz,
Casey Sliger, Jaclyn Sliger*, Samuel Soto, Kortney Tarvainen,
Travis Tollefson and Kristopher Turunen.
Grade 9: Travis Adams, Sierra Ayres, Acacia Copley, Cassandra Dix,
Klaire Fedie, Scott Gerzetich, Joslyn Hatfield, Carter Hendricks,
Melody Hirzel, Samantha Juntunen, Samantha Koski, McKenna Lane,
Miles Loosemore, Nathan Loosemore, Claire Cram MacKenzie, Jessica
Makela, Sarah Mars, Hope Minton, Deena Marie Misegan, Jessica
Nagele, Jordan Newland, Amanda Rantala, Stephanie Raymond*,
Cynthia Robacker, John Smith, Autumn Swanson, Emma Tembreull,
Derek Treadeau, Alex VanWagner, Andrew Vassallo, Dillon Velmer,
Anthony Wakeham and Molly Wilder. |
Earn honors at
C.J.
C.J.Sullivan Elementary
School announces its second quarter honor roll. Names with an
asterisk * indicate all A’s.
Grade four: Aaron Altz, Aaron Collins, Canyon Delene, Ryan Delene,
Bailey Denomie, Shay Ekdahl, Faith Eliason, Brian Fedie, Lauren
Gabe, Laura Gransell, Dylan Grentz, Winter Haataja, Christopher
Harden, Dylan Harden, Dana Hiltunen, Grace Hoskins, Samantha
Johnson, James Juntunen, Katie King, Justice Kinnunen, April Koivu,
Maegan Kraft, Sabrina Laux, Kiersten Loonsfoot, Michael Lytikainen,
Caitlyn Menge, Brian Ochoa, Jr., Johnathon Oger, David Olson,
|
Emma Ostermeyer, Justin
Rajala, Olivia Reini, Grayson Roe, Christopher Schjoth, Lauryn
Schneider, Caleb Scroggs, Chase Sullivan, Brook Thomas, Brianna
Warnke and Cole Younggren.
Grade five: Ryan Beauprey, Emily Beer, Madison Bianco, Jay Bugni,
Porter Davis*, Brittny Delene, Samuel Dix, Erin Elmblad, Lauren
Elmblad, Tucker Hemmila, Dana Hochstein, Richard Juntunen, Brandon
Koski*, Lana Lind, Olivia Lohmann, Jay Loman, Brett Mattson,
Rachel Mills, Chandler Puwal, Philip Pyykkonen, Paige Risku,
Jessica Rossi, Megan Salvito, Valerie Sliger and Taryn Taisto. |
43 teams take
the meltdown challenge
This year’s
Melt-Down is off to a sizzling start. With 43 teams in the weight loss
competition. As of Jan. 26, 2009, the participants have lost a total 265
pounds following their second weigh-in. Participants are competing for
large cash prizes paid out to the top three teams. The first place team
will receive $800; followed by $500 for second place; and $300 for
third.
Top individual losers will receive 12, 6, and 3 month memberships.
Prizes are awarded based on percentage of body weight lost. In addition,
all 43 teams are competing against the Aspirus Ontonagon Rehab & Fitness
Center. This year Aspirus Ontonagon has 64 teams participating in the
Melt-Down.
SHS releases
honor roll
Sacred Heart School
announces its second quarter honor roll. Names with an asterisk *
indicate all A’s.
Grade four: Victoria Francois, Ashok Ravindran, Carrie Schwartz and
Brandt Tembreull.
Grade five: Jacob Freeman, Colin Jackson, Emily Magaraggia and Lila
Morningstar.
Grade six: Lauren Jackson and Elsa Schwartz.
Quilt show
March 7
The Trout Creek
Library presents its second Quilt Show on Saturday, March 7, 2009. The
show will feature quilts made by both local and non-local crafters of
all ages. Family heirloom quilts will be exhibited along with newly made
ones of both familiar and one-of-a kind patterns. Attendees will be
delighted by the expertise and wide variety of patterns and color.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009

| VISUALLY IMPAIRED
HELP--Standing l-r, are Florence Usittalo, Philomena Ekdahl,
Dorothy Verbanac, Ginny Ann Jermac and Ojibwa Community Librarian
Mary Bergerson reviewing operation of a new visual magnification
machine as Sarah Peura of Marquette’s Magnification Place
demonstrates its use. The tribe received grant funding to purchase
three of the units including one for public use. |
Offer reading
help
Thanks to a federal
grant, the Ojibwa Community Library (OCL) in Baraga is the recipient of
three visual magnification machines.
According to library director Mary Bergerson, the OCL secured an
enhancement grant from the Institutes of Museum and Library Services for
Native Americans in Washington D.C. The grant is entitled Elder
Wiidookodaadig (which translates into “help each other”) Project.
“There were 55 tribes going after 14 grants,” said Bergerson. “It
was very competitive.”
French adds
spice to 'the melting pot'
This past spring and
summer, Sentinel readers learned they spend a good part of every day
speaking French.
The truth was unearthed by Ange Giudicelli of L'Anse via two
installments of an article he wrote titled "The Origins of the English
Language." It tracks the course of our language through history and how
it's picked up words along the way, with an emphasis on France.
Giudicelli and wife, Ruth, moved to L'Anse from Strasbourg, France
in late summer, 2007. While Ange was still mastering English, he was
both amazed and delighted at how much French he was hearing out on the
streets. A scholar at heart, he set out to find out why.
Koskinen
graduates
Jessica (Schultz)
Koskinen graduated with a Master’s of Science in Nurse Anesthesia from
The University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL, on Dec. 18, 2008. She is a
member of the Beta Tau Chapter of the Sigma Theta Tau, International
Honor Society of Nursing.
Koskinen accepted a position at the Cleveland Clinic Florida in
Weston, FL, where she will be working as a certified registered nurse
anesthetist (CRNA).
In 2004, she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from
Michigan State University and is a 1999 graduate of L’Anse High School.
Koskinen is the daughter of Jim and Jean Schultz of L’Anse.
Isle Royale
author Peterson signs books
Finlandia
University’s North Wind Books, Hancock, will host a book signing for
local author Carolyn Peterson Saturday, Jan. 24, from noon to 1 p.m., in
conjunction with the City of Hancock’s Heikinpäivä mid-winter
celebration.
Peterson will sign copies of her new book, “View from the Wolf's
Eye,” a memoir of the 37 summers she spent on Isle Royale, a National
Park wilderness in Lake Superior, as wife and assistant to wolf and
moose researcher Rolf Peterson.
Walitalo
awarded WPPI scholarship
Jessica Walitalo, a
senior at the L'Anse High School, has won the Village of L'Anse Public
Power scholarship. The annual high school scholarship is sponsored by
WPPI Energy for its member communities.
“As a municipally owned utility, we believe that providing
educational opportunities for promising local students is a sound
investment in our community,” says Bob LaFave, Village Manager. “We
congratulate Jessica on her accomplishments and extend our best wishes
for a successful future.”
Sacred Heart
school celebrates Jan. 25-31
Although there are
many times throughout the year that prove to be busy at any elementary
school, the last week in January is one of the busiest for Catholic
elementary schools across the country.
That is because this time is set aside to celebrate Catholic
Schools Week. What is Catholic Schools Week? It is an opportunity to
showcase all that Catholic Schools have to offer. For teachers and staff
it can be exhausting, but for students it is a lot of fun.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009

| WINNING MIX--Baraga native
Phyllis LaBranche now markets her famed Swedish pancake mix in
stores and by mail. Photo by Laura Mead, Escanaba Daily Press.
|
Success is
sweet for LaBranche and Swedish Pantry pancakes
Her dad, Carlos, was
Italian. Her mom, Eileen, was French. And Phyllis (Seratti) LaBranche
runs a Swedish restaurant!
“People say, you’re not Swedish. How can an Italian run a Swedish
restaurant? When I walk into the restaurant the wonderful aroma of the
baked goods reminds me of my mothers’ kitchen at home. It’s a wonderful
combination!”
Born and raised in Baraga, LaBranche has owned The Swedish Pantry
on Ludington Street in downtown Escanaba for 13 years. The restaurant is
regionally famous and has been written about in The Detroit Free Press
for its special cuisine.
Finnish 1
offered
Learn the basics of
the Finnish language in the Spring 2009 Finlandia University class,
Elementary Finnish I, taught by Finnish national Kaisa Randolph.
Students will engage in lots of conversation, read short texts and
comics, learn some basic grammar, sing favorite Finnish hits, and watch
popular Finnish shows. The class may even enjoy a visit or two from
celebrity Finnish guests.
No previous Finnish language knowledge required, just bring your
sisu.
Wish list for
shelter
Superior Americorps
members are organizing a supply drive for the Baraga County Shelter
Home. The wish list includes towels, toilet paper, paper towels,
cleaning supplies, storage containers, portable heaters, throw rugs,
trash bags, vacuum cleaner and office supplies.
Donations may be made a the Baraga County Federal Credit Union in
Baraga or L’Anse during business hours, and the L’Anse Wellness Center
located at 4 Meador Street, L’Anse, on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, from 10
a.m. to noon.
For more information call Linda Puckett at 487-6600 ext 136.
Calumet Theater
host night of international folk music
The Calumet Theatre
presents the Keweenaw World Festival, a night of folk music on Jan. 31,
2009, at 7 pm. Old Irish folk music, bluegrass and the music of the
Copper Country’s Pasi Cats is on the menu.
Detour is a bluegrass band from Northern Lower Michigan. Detour
combines original contemporary bluegrass sounds along with great
traditional favorites. With tight focused harmonies, precision
instrumentals, and creative melodies, Detour takes you down a unique
bluegrass road.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
| DIET AND
EXERCISE--Certified Personal Trainer Laura Cadeau works on the
weights while Pam Dove, Fitness Center Coordinator, looks on.
Programs in this winter’s “Melt-Down” focus on several healthy
activities. |
Fitness
'Melt-Down' sheds holiday pounds
Put on a few
unwanted pounds over the holidays?
If it’s time to trim down, and if one lacks the motivation to “go
it alone”, BCMH’s Rehab and Fitness Center might be the answer.
The 2009 “Winter Melt-Down” is a community weight loss challenge
encouraging participants to change their lifestyle and become healthier.
This is the third time the program has been offered. In the past members
of the Fitness Center participated; this winter it’s open to members and
non-members.
“The BCMH Weight Loss Challenge is a 12-week program designed to
encourage individuals to lose weight through diet and exercise while
gaining the knowledge needed to keep the weight off,” Fitness Center
Coordinator Pam Dove explained.
Study Finn,
kantele
Finnish language and
kantele classes will be offered at the Finlandia University Finnish
American Heritage Center beginning in the New Year.
Three 10-week Finnish language classes begin the week of Jan. 12.
All are held at the Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock.
Archambeau a U
of M grad
Ashley Jean
Archambeau of Ann Arbor graduated from University of Michigan December,
2008.
The L’Anse High School graduate received a bachelor’s degree in
biology and plans to continue her education with graduate studies at U
of M.
Archambeau is the daugter of Tom and Cheryl Archambeau of L’Anse.
Business
counseling Jan. 14
The Keweenaw
Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) and Finlandia University invite
area entrepreneurs to take advantage of free one-on-one business
counseling sessions at the university’s Jutila Center on Wednesday, Jan.
14, 2009.
Business consultant Roger Woods of Homer Productivity, LLC, can
advise on all aspects of small business development from the initial
idea through growth and expansion strategies.
Appointments are recommended and can be made by phone 487-7450 or
e-mail cgdb@finlandia.edu
The Finlandia University Jutila Center is at 200 Michigan Street,
Hancock.
Norwegian film
digging up bones
The Finlandia
University Nordic Film Series continues this Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009,
with the Norwegian documentary, “Give Us Back Our Skeletons”.
Showings are at 2 and 6 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage
Center, Hancock.
Released in 1999, ‘Give Us Back Our Skeletons’ tells the story of a Sámi
activist and his quest for the return of the human remains of his
ancestors.
Locked up in the Anatomical Institute in Oslo, Norway, two
skeletons are all that is left of Mons Somby and Aslak Hetta, two Sámi
men who were executed in 1854 for murder following a rebellion against
the Norwegian government.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

| HIGH FLYERS--Four area
youth who enjoyed testing their mettle at the ski jump at
Limestone Mountain pose for posterity in this shot snapped in
1942. Jean Kangas submitted the picture, and her uncle, George
Koskimaki, pictured on the right, filled in the blanks. Left to
right are Tom Elmblad, 12, Joe Jarvey, 16, Onnie Koskimaki, 16 and
George, 18. Onnie, George’s brother, was Jean’s father. This was
one of the last times George skied at Alston before enlisting in
the U.S. Army. |
Early ski
jumpers enjoyed taking wing
First you ski. Then
you fly.
That was the rule for the four toughs pictured at left, posing
before the ski jump at Limestone Mountain in Alston. The photo was
snapped back in 1942. The guy on the right, George Koskimaki, remembers
it like it was yesterday.
The photo was submitted to the Sentinel this past summer by Jean
Kangas, Koskimaki's niece. His brother, Onnie, at his left was Jean's
father. To hear Koskimaki tell it, it's a wonder any of them survived
long enough to grow up and settle down.
Reynolds
awarded scholarship
Lake Superior State
University announced that Elisa Reynolds, a senior at Baraga High
School, has been awarded the Board of Trustees Academic Achievement
Scholarship commencing for the Fall 2009 semester.
She is the daughter of Robert and Beth Reynolds of Baraga. Reynolds
will major in Physical Therapy/ Sports Medicine.
Boost food
budget for seniors, disabled
Michigan Department
of Human Services Director Ismael Ahmed announced that as many as 80,000
Michigan senior citizens and adults with disabilities could
automatically get help with their food budgets next year under a federal
pilot project.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service
granted Michigan a series of waivers allowing the state to implement the
Michigan Combined Application Project (MiCAP). Under the project, adults
who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and who live
independently could receive at least $60 each month in food assistance.
Graybill & Mead
grand re-opening
In lieu of a grand
re-opening, the law office of Graybill & Mead in L'Anse is offering a
grand opportunity: Call in with your legal questions.
Starting the first full week in January, persons may call to
schedule an appointment to discuss a legal question regarding the
following topics: real property, estate planning, family law and
business law.
Appointments will be accepted for Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
throughout the month of January. When scheduling an appointment, please
mention this story and describe which topic your legal question pertains
to. Appointments will be limited to 30 minutes.
Receives CJ
degree
Rich LaPlante
received a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice from Northern
Michigan University Dec. 13, 2008.
LaPlante is in his 15th year in law enforcement and is
currently a corporal with the NMU Public Safety Department. He resides
in Negaunee with his wife Tracy and children, Shelby and Alec. LaPlante
is the son of Lynn Forrest and Rick LaPlante.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008

| TEAMWORK--Pastor David
Hoover and his wife, Sherry, at the entrance to Victory Christian
Assembly. Sherry provides music for services led by her husband,
and the couple commutes from their home in Calumet to minister to
a slowly growing congregation. |
Fellowship
fosters the faith at Victory
Pastor David Hoover
mans the pulpit at Victory Christian Assembly church, spreading the Word
in a building that's stood for over 110 years in Baraga.
Hoover has been on the job almost three years now, tending a small
but gradually growing flock of the faithful. He and his wife, Sherry,
trek south from their home in Calumet each Sunday and Wednesday for
services and family Bible studies at the church on 111 Pennock Ave.
"We're a non-denominational charismatic church, part of the
Fellowship of Christian Assemblies," Hoover explained. "The church has
been here for 32 years. It took 30 years for me to get here!"
Wednesday, December 17, 2008

| CHRISTMAS GIFTS--Marie Volp,
head of Missions of the Liturgy and owner of the Bishop Baraga
Shrine Gift Shop, displays gifts for Christmas. The shop carries a
wide variety of Christian items and gifts and is now open
throughout the year. |
Shrine Gift
Shop now open year-round
The Bishop Baraga
Shrine Gift Shop is up and running and open for business.
The gift shop is located atop the Red Rocks at the tip of Keweenaw
Bay. It stands at the approach to the Bishop Baraga Shrine, a towering
monument to the "snowshoe priest" who spread God's word amongst the
region's Native Americans and early settlers.
The gift shop and surrounding 14 acres were purchased last December
by a non-profit organization named Missions of the Liturgy. The shrine
is owned by a separate foundation. Maria Volp, head of the Missions,
hopes to nurture Christian faith via the shop and grounds.
Light Keepers
brighten holidays for Tots
A crowd of 90 people
braved unplowed, slippery roads to attend the annual Light Keepers
benefit concert at Zion Lutheran Church in Skanee on Sunday afternoon,
Dec. 14, 2008. The event brings in cash donations and many, many new
toys for the Marine Corps League’s Toys for Tots drive.
Pastor Judy Mattson said the total offering for Toys for Tots came
to $855, and an estimated $1,000 worth of toys lined the altar. They
will be distributed to local children to brighten their Christmas
morning. L’Anse Lions Club President Suzie Presslein donated a $200
check on behalf of the Lions.
L'Anse wins HS
Bowl
The L’Anse “Purple
Hornets” played the St. Ignace “Saints” in the first round of High
School Bowl and won by a score of 190-150. Fifty schools from the Upper
Peninsula and northern Wisconsin field teams for Public TV 13’s High
School Bowl tournament, now celebrating 31 years on the air.
Single-elimination play continues until the Championship game next
April.
L’Anse will advance to the second round when they play Menominee in
Game 31, scheduled to air on Jan. 24, 2009. High School Bowl can be seen
on Public TV 13 on Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Mondays at noon.
Maple syrup
session Jan. 17 for producers
Michigan State
University Extension (MSU-E) and the Michigan Maple Syrup Association (MMSA)
will be co-sponsoring a day-long educational program in Lower Michigan
on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, for any interested maple syrup producers.
The highlight of this year’s program will be two in-depth
presentations focusing on “The Health Benefits of Maple Syrup” by Dr.
Kerrie Sanders and “Farm Market Marketing of Maple Syrup Products”. In
addition, there will be several break-out sessions after lunch that will
focus on methods of filtering maple syrup to remove impurities, an
opportunity to test sap or syrup hydrometers and a “beginner’s session”
for newer producers.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
L'Anse mail
carrier wraps 15-year run
Neither rain nor
sleet nor snow used to keep Jaren Tollefson from his appointed rounds.
Now, he's happy to watch them through his living room window.
Tollefson retired Nov. 30, 2008 from the U.S. Postal Service,
ending a 15-year run of walking a mail route in L'Anse. Tollefson
traveled about 10 miles a day on foot to get the mail through,
delivering letters and packages to over 500 customers along the way.
In the comfort of his home on Jack-O-Lantern Road on a bitterly
cold Saturday afternoon, Tollefson fondly looked back on a job well
done. He misses his customers, even the furry four- legged ones, but it
was time to hang up his mail sack.

| NEW RELEASE--Cathy Bolton
has just released her eighth recording, “Back To My Roots,” a
collection of her renditions of many popular tunes. The title
track is a collaboration between Bolton who wrote the lyrics and
co-producer Jim Fischer, who wrote the music for the piece. |
Bolton releases
CD of favorites
Singer-songwriter
Cathy Bolton’s eighth recording takes her “Back To My Roots” with a
collection of folk and country songs she learned to play on the guitar
as a teen. She’s been performing around the country and internationally
for 16 years.
“Back To My Roots” is the fifth recording Bolton has done with
friend, engineer, co-producer and co-arranger Jim Fischer from
Vancouver, WA. The title track is a creation of Bolton and Fischer.
Bolton wrote the lyrics and Fischer, the music. The rest of the album
includes well-known songs that audiences will sing along with.
Philip
LaTendresse releases honor roll
Philip LaTendresse Elementary announces its
first term 2008-08 honor roll. Names with an asterisk indicate all
A’s.
Grade 4: Matthew Beck, David DesRochers, Brooklyn Fish, Adam
Irwin, Rian Turunen and Wyatte Walitalo .
Grade 4: Alan DesRochers, Tyler Fish, Bailey Froberg, Megan
Kinnunen, Kyle Lake Nicole Maki, Kerstyn Nurmela, Carsyn Osterman
and Nate Welsh.
Grade 5: Raistlin Awonohopay, Brittany Brown, Anna Isaacson,
Cortney Lanala-Tervo, Tera Little, Keisha McHenry, Annaleese
Rasanen and Brendan Varline.
|
Grade 5: Jacob Belkola,
Linnea Bemis, Madison Clisch, Fred Cote IV, Troy Decota, Andrea
Haagsma, Christian Hakola, Ireland Ingram, Samantha Jahfetson,
Clayton Luther, Courtney Mayo, Nathan Miron, Richard Morin, Bryce
Retaskie, Teal Sackett and Joshua Sutherland.
Grade 6: Ashley Beck, Zack Cardinal, Corbin Crittenden, Gabrielle
Mayo, Kayla Messer, Donna Pawlowski, Jessica Tervo, Jaclyn Wadaga
and Sonja Welch.
Grade 6: Dylan Betterly, Alea Bratt, Tessa Gilbertson, Jordan
Hatter, Bronz LeRue, Emma Marquardt, Kelli Massie, Shayla Mayo and
Michael Turunen. |
Tree eases
grief
For those who have
lost a loved one the holidays can be particularly difficult. On Dec. 2,
2008, Baraga County Home Care and Hospice honored the memory of those
held dear with the annual Love Light Tree Lighting Ceremony.
During the weeks prior to the ceremony, individuals had the
opportunity to secure a star on the tree in remembrance of a loved one
who has passed away, or in honor of someone dear to them.
Jacobson
hosting area Holiday Remembrance
On Thursday, Dec. 18
at 7 p.m., Jacobson Funeral Home will host a Holiday Remembrance Program
for all area residents who have experienced the death of someone loved.
The program will include a presentation on coping with holiday grief by
Pastor Judy Mattson, as well as a non-denominational tree lighting.
“The holidays are a wonderful time of year. But they can be a
particularly difficult time to cope with the loss of a loved one. At
Jacobson Funeral Home we realize that the first Christmas without a
loved one is especially challenging. Therefore, we would like to offer a
special holiday remembrance to commemorate your loved ones during this
holiday season”, says Susan Jacobs of Jacobson Funeral Home.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008

| CCC DAYS–A Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC) work crew is captured in time in this
photo sent in by Mary Dudo Bucklin. Her father, Louie J. Dudo, is
pictured in the first row at the far right. John P. Coskie,
Louie's future brother-in-law, is pictured in the third row at the
far right. If you can identify other men in the photo or have CCC
memories of your own to share, contact the Sentinel at (906)
524-6194 or e-mail us at sentinel@up.net. |
Recession stirs
CCC memories--got any to add?
In 1933, President
Franklin D. Roosevelt bailed the country out by putting it to work.
His Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was part of Roosevelt’s New
Deal legislation geared to battle unemployment during the Great
Depression. The program was established to conserve natural resources
nation-wide while providing work and training for young men without
jobs.
The fruits of CCC crews’ efforts can still be seen and enjoyed
throughout the UP. Keweenaw Mountain Lodge and the stone guardrails
framing Brockway Mountain Drive were created by CCC crews. Camp Nesbit,
located south of Sidnaw, was also built by the CCC.
Gallery 325
hosts student art show
Gallery 325 will
celebrate its 6th annual student art show with a reception from 7-9 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 5, 2008, at the Marilyn Dammann Art Center, 315 McGillan
Street, Baraga.
The show is titled, "Left Brain Recess" and will feature artworks
in a variety of media by students from L’Anse, Arvon and Baraga area
schools. Kid-friendly refreshments (pizza & pop!) will be served at the
event which is free of charge and open to the public.
KBIC program
strengthens families through literacy
Just as the circle
is a Native American symbol of the wheel of life, it is also KBIC Even
Start’s symbol of community, family, and unity. This Baraga County
family literacy program strives to build and strengthen the circle
through family-focused activities that support the educational goals of
all of its participants.
Family Circle is a weekly gathering of KBIC Even Start participants
that brings together the educational components of the program through
intergenerational literacy activities. Infants and children arrive with
their parents, grandparents, or maybe even an uncle, ready to explore
and interact in a home-like setting. A family-style lunch is often the
starting point of the Circle after which families break off into small
clusters to visit and share parenting experiences.
Finn
Independence Day is December 6
Finlandia University
will present its 91st annual Finnish Independence Day program Saturday,
Dec. 6, 2008, at 2 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage Center,
Hancock.
“Take a break from Christmas shopping and craft shows and stop in
at the Finnish American Heritage Center to rest your feet, have an
aromatic cup of Finnish coffee, enjoy the entertainment, and help a
group of young people travel to Finland,” urges Jim Kurtti, director of
the Heritage Center.
Baraga Fire
Department plans children's party
The 36th annual
Children’s Christmas Party hosted by the Baraga Fire Department is
currently being planned by the department. The children’s party is
scheduled for Dec. 20, 2008, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Baraga Fire
Hall.
Some of the highlights of the day will include: fire truck rides,
gift drawings for children of all ages, treats for one and all, and of
course a visit from Santa himself.
Attorney Seavoy
receives honor
Three attorneys from
the law firm of Kendricks, Bordeau, Adamini, Chilman & Greenlee, P.C. in
Marquette have been named by Michigan Super Lawyers magazine as some of
the top attorneys in Michigan for 2008.
Ronald Keefe and Kenneth Seavoy from L’Anse were among five percent
of the lawyers in the state selected for inclusion in the "Super
Lawyers" category of the publication. Laura Katers Reilly was among 2.5
percent of the lawyers in the state selected for inclusion in the
"Rising Stars" category of the publication, which are attorneys age 40
or younger or in practice 10 years or less.
UPPCO 'We Care'
still accepting donations
There are still a
few weeks left in 2008 if you’re an UPPCO customer who has been meaning
to contribute to UPPCO’s We Care program and take advantage of the
company’s 100 percent match. All funds collected are sent to St. Vincent
de Paul along with a matching check from UPPCO.
Because of the great need, several months ago UPPCO announced it
would renew its pledge to match all dollars customers contribute to the
“We Care” program from January through December 2008. UPPCO collects the
money through customer’s bill payments and sends it to St. Vincent de
Paul in the donor’s area. St. Vincent de Paul uses it to help needy
families pay their electric bills, which frees up other St. Vincent de
Paul funds for food and other aid to the needy.
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