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Happenings in the Keweenaw Peninsula October 2, 2001 Text © 2001 Michele Anderson

Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District to hold dinner meeting, elections

HOUGHTON -- Michigan Rep. Rich Brown, D-Bessemer, will be the guest speaker at the Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District's 50th Annual Meeting Saturday, October 13, 2001, at the Finnish-American Heritage Center on the campus of Finlandia University, Quincy Street in Hancock, MI.

Rich Brown, State Representative – 110th District (Photo courtesy Rich Brown)

"I asked Rich Brown to focus on some of the concerns we have up here -- such as land use planning and the fragmentation of land into small parcels," said Tami Anderson, the District's executive director. "Those of us working for the District want to know how we can better communicate with our legislators on these issues."

In addition to Brown's address, the event includes a social hour, dinner and election for two available seats on the District's board of directors. The public is cordially invited, and tickets are still available.

The Mountain Echo Bluegrass Band will entertain and refreshments will be served during the social hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. During the social hour, participants will have an opportunity to meet the seven candidates running for the two board of directors seats. The candidates for this year's election include two incumbents: Mark Weber of Mohawk and Thomas Tervo of Chassell. Also running in the election is Jean Ellis of Eagle Harbor.

"Any resident of Houghton or Keweenaw county (of legal voting age) may vote in this election," Anderson said. "It's a public election just like any other government unit. We are considered a local unit of government."

Residents may vote either in person at the Oct. 13 meeting or by absentee ballot. These ballots can be obtained at the District's office in the UPPCO Building, 600 East Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, MI 49931. Anderson said she would be available to provide absentee ballots during the office hours, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

A buffet dinner is scheduled for 6 p.m. The menu features Roast Baron of Beef, potato, vegetable and salad. In honor of the District's 50th year celebration an anniversary cake will also be served.

Following the dinner, at 7 p.m., the District will conduct a brief business meeting with a year-end report from the District and its staff followed by the director's election and Brown's address. Board of Director Election Results and Door Prizes will close out the evening.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling the District Office at (906) 482-0214. Tickets are $12.00 per person.