July 2007 News -- August 2007 News

In the News

Keweenaw Now moves to new BLOG Sept. 1

Posted 08/31/2007  

HANCOCK -- Readers, this Web site, www.keweenawnow.com will move to our NEW BLOG, http://keweenawnow.blogspot.com, beginning Saturday, Sept. 1. All the articles, photos and links published on this site since October 2001 will still be accessible in our Archive, thanks to Smartisans.com. When you go to Keweenaw Now you'll be able to access this valuable record of News, Views and Happenings up to Aug. 31, 2007. Then click on the BLOG link to read the new articles, see photos and, if you wish, take advantage of our new blog feature -- comment on the articles or on any issues of interest to our readers. Thanks to all of you for visiting Keweenaw Now and -- to keep yourself informed -- please visit our new site!

Photo contest deadline extended to Sept. 7

Posted 08/31/2007  

HANCOCK -- Readers, Keweenaw Now is extending the photo contest through Sept. 7, 2007. Just in case you capture that great view of Lake Superior during the Labor Day weekend, it will still be eligible! The photo should express a personal, environmental, economic or spiritual connection people have to Lake Superior. (Photos of local beaches ecologically connected to Lake Superior -- such as Hancock, Houghton or Chassell on the Portage Canal -- are acceptable as entries.) Categories are wildlife, landscape and stewardship/education (e.g., cleaning up a beach or leaving it cleaner than you find it, learning about the lake, etc.). Visit the Keweenaw Now Blog for details and rules.
Photo: Keweenaw sunset with freighter. Photo taken near the Keweenaw Tip from the Isle Royale Queen IV during Reading the Landscape cruise June 30. (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson) 

Houghton County Fair Visit: part 1

Posted 08/26/2007  

HANCOCK -- From kids' fun to prize-winning tomatoes to tough, competitive horse-pulling, Keweenaw Now captured some highlights of the Houghton County Fair on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2007, at the Fairgrounds in Hancock. See our photo essay, "Houghton County Fair Visit: part 1," now published on Keweenaw Now's new blog. See also our first video -- an interview with some Fair celebrities!
Photo: Inside the Houghton County Fair Exhibit Building, Sean Godmere, 3, son of Shane and Michele Godmere of Centennial Heights, tries his steering skills at the Toddler Driving School -- in the company of Houghton County Fair Queen Genny Gierke of Chassell. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu) 

Calumet Heritage Celebration: Photos

Posted 08/21/2007  

CALUMET -- Keweenaw Now's photographer, Gustavo Bourdieu, wandered around Main Street Calumet's Heritage Celebration in Agassiz Park last Saturday, Aug. 18, and took photos for readers of our new blog. Check out these photos of some highlights of the day and feel free to add your comments on the Keweenaw Now Blog.
Photo: Krista Cone, center, Miss Coppertown 2007, reigned over the Calumet Heritage Celebration last weekend. Pictured with her are other candidates Kelsey Johnson, right, and Kelsey Eddleman. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Folklore research project seeks info on local Finnish-American musicians 

By Hilary Virtanen Posted 08/20/2007  

HANCOCK -- Do you have traditional Finnish musicians in your family tree? Do you have any recollections of a musical neighbor from decades past? If you do, Hilary Virtanen, a Copper Country native and graduate student of Scandinavian Studies and Folklore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, would like to meet you during her visit to the Upper Peninsula this month. Virtanen hopes to interview descendants and acquaintances of thirteen Finnish-American musicians recorded in 1938 by folklorist Alan Lomax, famed for his work with blues legends Huddy “Leadbelly” Ledbetter and Muddy Waters. Her research is part of an album compilation project conducted by Professor James P. Leary, also of the University of Wisconsin. Read more on Keweenaw Now's new Blog.

Swedetown Creek comments requested 

Posted 08/12/2007  

HANCOCK -- A group of concerned citizens is requesting that residents write to Hancock City Manager Glenn Anderson to express their views on the City of Hancock's potential sale of Government Lot #5 parcels immediately east of Swedetown Creek along Highway 203 for three residential lots. The area in question represents the south side of the river mouth and protects forests, wetlands and sandbars. Read the article on Keweenaw Now's new blog.
Photo: Swedetown Creek, near the proposed land sale, is a recreational area for residents. (Photo © 2007 Joe Kaplan. Reprinted with permission.)

Planning Commission hears public comment on proposed waterfront sale 

Posted 08/06/2007  

HANCOCK --The City of Hancock's potential sale of Government Lot #5 parcels immediately east of Swedetown Creek along Highway 203 was the subject of several public comments presented to the City of Hancock Planning Commission on July 23, 2007. This city-owned property is opposite a public access recreational spot, also city property, used as a boat launch at the place where the creek empties into the Portage. Residents have expressed opposition to the city's proposal to sell the lots because of their proximity to a recreational area. The Planning Commission approved requesting a registered land survey of the entire Government Lot 5 to assist the commission to study the use of the property as requested by the City Council and to request that it be due prior to the Commission's August 27th meeting. Read the article on Keweenaw Now's new blog.
Photo: Hancock resident John Slivon, left, addresses the Hancock Planning Commission and City Manager Glenn Anderson, right, on the proposed sale of public land near Swedetown Creek. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © Michele Anderson)

DEQ grants preliminary approval to Kennecott sulfide mine application, schedules public hearings 

Posted 08/01/2007  

LANSING, MARQUETTE --Despite an internal investigation focused on the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ's) mismanagement of the application review process for a proposed sulfide mine under the Yellow Dog Plains and Salmon Trout River, near Marquette, the DEQ announced on July 30, 2007, that it "has resumed its review of the Eagle Project Mine permit application and reinstated its earlier proposed decision to approve a series of permits to the Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company." The DEQ calls this decision "only a proposal," noting that public hearings have been scheduled near Marquette at the West Branch Community Center (on old KI Sawyer Air Force Base) in Forsyth Township September 11-13, as well as at the Lansing Center on September 19. The public comment period will remain open through October 17, and written comments can be sent to DEQ/DNR Kennecott Comments, Office of Geological Survey, P.O. Box 30256, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7756, or by e-mail at DEQ-Kennecott-comments@michigan.gov. National Wildlife Federation attorney Michelle Halley said acid mine drainage and the mine's roof caving in are among public concerns that still have not been addressed. "The application is deficient and the operation would undeniably cause pollution," Halley said. Read more in the July 31, 2007, Mining Journal article, "Mine backers, foes get set for hearings." Visit Save the Wild UP for more information on this update.

Photo contest deadline extended to Aug. 31

Posted 07/31/2007  

HANCOCK -- Keweenaw Now is extending the deadline and broadening categories for our Lake Superior Photo Contest through Aug. 31, 2007. Send us your favorite photo of Lake Superior or a related body of water, beach, etc., in the Lake Superior basin. Categories include landscape (the beauty of the lake), wildlife (if you can catch them) or responsible action / education (e.g., doing something to leave the beach cleaner than you found it, learning /teaching about lake ecology, etc.) We will accept photos of or near the lake taken any time this summer -- between May 1 and Aug. 31, 2007. Winners will be posted on our new blog, www.keweenawnow.blogspot.com.See blog for contest rules. P.S.: If you have a short community announcement, post it as a comment on the blog!
Photo: Limnologist Judith Budd tests the lake level at a point near Copper Harbor for participants in the Reading the Landscape Shorelands program on June 30, 2007, aboard the Isle Royale Queen IV. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Thanks, Absolute Michigan!

Posted 07/28/2007  

HANCOCK -- Keweenaw Now wishes to thank Andy McFarlane of absolutemichigan.com for featuring Keweenaw Now and our new Keweenaw Now blog, as well as our photo contest, on Absolute Michigan. Be sure to check this out and see also his article on the Mackinac Bridge 50th Anniversary celebration, with an excellent photo of the big bridge by michiganartisan. Absolute Michigan says it "is designed to be a rich resource that promotes the state of Michigan as a place to visit, for business that doesn't mess up the natural beauty Michigan is blessed with, and most importantly as a place to live your life with the people you love."

Hancock Council hears public opposition to proposed land sale

By Michele Anderson  Posted and updated 07/23/2007  

HANCOCK -- Hancock City Council members recently listened to several local residents express opposition to a proposed land sale of City-owned waterfront property on Swedetown Creek and Portage Lake. At a public hearing on July 18, citizens' comments were unanimous in asking the Council to reconsider plans to sell Government Lot #5, immediately east of Swedetown Creek along Highway 203. The parcels proposed for sale are near a recreational spot used as a boat launch at the place where the creek empties into the Portage. One parcel has frontage on the creek, and two have frontage on the Portage. Former Councilwoman Mary Tuisku was among those who spoke in favor of sending the proposal back to the Hancock Planning Commissioners, who have added it to their agenda for the Planning Commission meeting at 6 p.m. tonight, Monday, July 23, in the Hancock City Hall Council Chambers. more 
Photo: During the July 18 public hearing, preceding the Hancock City Council meeting, Allyson Jabusch, standing at the podium, requests that the Council table the vote on Government Lot #5 near Swedetown Creek and instruct the Planning Commission to hold another public hearing.  (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge to celebrate Grand Opening of Community / Conference Center July 21

By Lauren Wiza  Posted 07/20/2007  

COPPER HARBOR -- Tucked away in the green forests just outside Copper Harbor, the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge has been receiving a facelift during the past year. The Lodge will celebrate the Grand Opening of its new Community / Conference Center this Saturday, July 21, in conjunction with the Thimbleberry Jam Fest. Keweenaw County owns the 167-acre facility, which includes a golf course, a lodge with dining area, cabins, a motel -- and now a new 7,000-square-foot Community / Conference facility and newly renovated water and sewer infrastructure for winterizing. In the past, this  "Jewel of the Keweenaw," has been open only during the summer season. The new infrastructure will allow it to be open year-round. more
Photo: This photo shows one of the entrances to the new Community / Conference Center and its large dining area, which can accommodate up to 280 guests. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Finnish city officials attend Hancock City Council meeting

Posted 07/19/2007  

HANCOCK -- Two official Finnish visitors from Hancock's sister city, Porvoo, Finland, attended the public hearing and meeting of the Hancock City Council on July 18, 2007. The visitors, Marcus Henricson, Porvoo city manager, and Mikaela Nylander, Porvoo mayor (fifth and sixth from left in photo) presented the Hancock City Council with a symbolic gift, an attractive glass vase designed by Alvar Aalto, a famous Finnish designer and architect. (Click on photo for larger version: Hancock Mayor Barry Givens, fourth from left, is holding the gift.) "With this small, symbolic gift," Henricson said, "we want to express our appreciation for the hospitality that we've experienced during our visit here." Both Henricson and Nylander expressed interest in seeing Hancock's city government in action, with public participation during the hearing and the meeting. Learn more about the sister cities on the Hancock and Porvoo Web sites. Watch for an article on the hearing, coming soon.  
Photo: Finnish visitors from Hancock's sister city, Porvoo, Finland, pose for a photo with Hancock City Council members during the July 18 Council meeting in Hancock City Hall Council Chambers. Pictured are, from left, James Hainault, councilman at large; Ted Belej, councilman at large; William Laitila, mayor pro-tem; Barry Givens, mayor; Marcus Henricson, Porvoo city manager; Mikaela Nylander, Porvoo mayor; Lisa McKenzie, councilwoman at large; Sarah Baratono, Ward II councilwoman; and Karen Haischer (seated), clerk. Not pictured is Glenn Anderson, Hancock city manager, who also welcomed the visitors.  (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

Keweenaw Now launches new BLOG with photo contest

Posted 07/17/2007  

HANCOCK -- Keweenaw Now is launching a new, interactive BLOG for readers with a photo contest. On July 13 we invited you to celebrate Lake Superior Day (officially July 15) sometime during the week of July 14-22, record it with your camera and email us your best photo in one of three categories: landscape (the beauty of the lake), wildlife (if you can catch them) or responsible action (e.g., doing something to leave the beach cleaner than you found it). We will also accept photos of or near the lake taken any time this summer -- between May 1 and July 31, 2007. The Lake Superior Binational Forum promotes the basin-wide Lake Superior Day to highlight the personal, environmental, economic and spiritual connections people have to this unique world treasure. Tell us about your connection with a photo! Even if you don't have a photo, check our our new BLOG and send us your comments on any of our articles -- or Keweenaw issues important to you. The blog is user-friendly and has no connection to our former Discussion boards.
Photo: Keweenaw Now photographer Gustavo Bourdieu photographed this sunset with freighter near the Keweenaw Tip during the Reading the Landscape boat tour from Copper Harbor on the Isle Royale Queen IV June 30, 2007. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Stupak votes for bills on redeployment from Iraq, student aid 

Posted 07/15/2007


WASHINGTON, D. C. -- U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee), recently announced his votes on two bills passed this week in the U.S. House of Representatives: the Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act and the College Cost Reduction Act of 2007. On July 12 the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that would begin to redeploy U.S. troops from Iraq within 120 days and to complete redeployment by April 1st of 2008. Congressman Stupak voted for the legislation. He also voted for the legislation that would invest $18 billion in college financial aid, the single largest investment in college financial aid since the 1944 GI Bill, saying the bill would help millions of Americans afford college and higher education. more

Kiersten Birondo reigns as Strawberry Festival Queen

Posted 07/10/2007


CHASSELL -- Copper Country Strawberry Festival Queen Kiersten Birondo, a recent graduate of Houghton High School, made the rounds of the festival held in Chassell July 6-7 and greeted her subjects with poise and graciousness. Kiersten said she found it exciting "just to be up there" on stage with the other queen candidates. "I used to be one of the little girls watching the queen competition in awe, and I'm so thrilled that I got to be one of the girls this time," she said. "Actually, being selected was surreal. It was surprising, and it felt a little bizarre." Kiersten, who is already on her way to a career as an opera singer, is no stranger to public appearances. Besides being chosen as Miss Houghton County last year, she has performed in the Pine Mountain Music Festival with singing roles in both The Magic Flute (2006) and An Evening with Gilbert and Sullivan this year. She will also have a role in The Sound of Music at the Calumet Theatre this fall. Kiersten plans to attend Michigan Tech to study materials engineering and vocal performance -- and to continue her study of French.
Photo: Copper Country Strawberry Festival Queen Kiersten Birondo at the Chassell Pavilion on Saturday, July 7, 2007. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

Barbara Kendall receives Heart and Hands of the Keweenaw award

Posted 07/10/2007


HANCOCK -- Barbara Kendall of Hancock received the 2007 Heart and Hands of the Keweenaw award during the Fourth of July celebration at Churning Rapids. The award is given annually to a Copper Country person who has given of his or her heart and hands in the service of peace, justice or the environment. In addition to her professional life of service in nursing, Kendall was instrumental in founding the Community Coalition in 1996. Coalition volunteers sponsor "Art from the Heart" and provide grief education and support. Kendall has been involved with Keweenaw Home Nursing Hospice as their Education Coordinator, has worked with the Employee Wellness Program, is on a committee for operations of Omega House and is a "Parish Nurse" for the Methodist Church in Hancock. While working with the Health Department, Kendall was one of first HIV/AIDS educators back when it first emerged as a serious health issue. In spite of her demanding schedule, Kendall is known as "an incredible community servant." 
Photo: Terry Kinzel presents the 2007 Heart and Hands of the Keweenaw award to Barbara Kendall of Hancock during Fourth of July celebration at Churning Rapids. Click for larger photo, which also pictures Shalini Suryanarayana, director of Special Academic Programs in the Department of Educational Opportunity at Michigan Tech University and chair of MTU's Environmental Sustainability Committee (ESC), who received the 2006 Heart and Hands of the Keweenaw award, and Norman Kendall, Barbara's spouse, who played music during the event with the group Rhythm 203.

Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale DVD explains research

By Julie Nordstrom  Posted 07/08/2007


HOUGHTON -- "Collaboration" is a word that Michigan Tech Forestry Professor John Vucetich uses to describe Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale, a DVD released recently by Solex Media, a division of Monte Consulting Company, a local company. The DVD is a collaboration of research and production about wolves and moose, intended to educate the public about the most significant predator-prey relationship on Lake Superior’s largest island. Dr. Rolf Peterson -- Vucetich’s mentor at Michigan Tech -- has been researching the relationships between Isle Royale’s wolf and moose populations for 30 years. For the past 17 of those years Peterson and Vucetich have collaborated on this research. more
Photo: This photo of the Middle Pack on Lake Desor, Isle Royale, was taken in February 2006 by John Vucetich, co-leader of Isle Royale wolf-moose research. It is one of the 135 photos one can find in the Wolves and Moose of Isle Royale DVD. (Photo © 2006 John Vucetich. Reprinted with permission.)

Save the Wild UP Video Challenge winners announced

Posted 07/04/2007


MARQUETTE -- Winners of the Save The Wild UP Video Challenge have been announced and can be viewed on You Tube. The Grand Prize Winner with 1907 votes is Josh Leo for his Video titled "Sulfide Mining Will Damage Michigan." Prizes for the Grand Prize Winner include $2500 and a holiday package in the Huron Mountains of the Upper Peninsula. The First Runner-Up with 1406 votes is Peter Schriemer for his video titled "Michigan's Water and Wildlife." Scott Lynch wins Second Runner-Up for his video titled "Kennecott Eagle Mine." See Save The Wild UP for details on the sulfide mining issue.
Photo: A fall 2006 view of the Salmon Trout River, which flows through an area proposed for Kennecott Minerals' Eagle Project sulfide mine. The river contains a rare population of Coaster Brook Trout. Click on photo for larger version.  (Photo © 2007 and courtesy lexup at Save the Wild UP. Reprinted with permission.)

Businesses feel the heat: Lake Superior warms up, part 3

By Katie Alvord  Posted 06/30/2007


HOUGHTON -- On June 21, the Senate passed an energy bill that would increase average vehicle fuel efficiency, a measure meant at least in part to combat global warming. Meanwhile, in the Copper Country, some businesses -- particularly those based on winter tourism -- might already have been feeling global warming's effects. In this final segment of a three-part series on climate change in the Lake Superior Basin, Katie Alvord looks at ways local businesses have already been affected by warming temperatures, how some have responded with potential solutions and what some scientists say about the future of winter in our area. more
Photo: Making snow at Mont Ripley Ski Hill near Hancock. In warmer winters, ski areas rely more on artificial snow. The tall, slanted pipe in left foreground is newer, more energy-efficient snowmaking equipment. (Photo © 2007 and courtesy Mont Ripley.)

Photos of 2007 Keweenaw Chain Drive bike races posted

Posted 06/26/2007


HANCOCK -- Photos of the 2007 Portage Health Keweenaw Chain Drive Festival bike races are now available on Brockit.com. These quality photos, taken by Brockit's professional photographers Adam Johnson and Tess Steube, include a variety of individual and group photos of the race. They are available for viewing or purchase. Results of the races, held June 16, 2007, on the Maasto Hiihto and Churning Rapids trails in Hancock, are posted on the Chain Drive Web site. Races included 32- and 16-mile races, the Junior Chain Drive and (for Father's Day) father and offspring teams. The Chain Drive race will help support a purchase of 280 acres for the Swedetown Recreation Area in Calumet. Visit Keweenaw Trails for more information on local trails and upcoming running and biking races.
Photo: Terry Kinzel of Hancock rides in the 16-mile race during the 2007 Keweenaw Chain Drive. Kinzel and his wife, Sue Ellen Kingsley, who maintain their Churning Rapids trails for community biking and cross-country skiing, both participated in the race. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2007 Brockit.com. Reprinted with permission.)

Cardboard boat races offer challenges, "pirate" fun at Bridgefest 2007

By Michele Anderson  Posted 06/22/2007


HOUGHTON -- The "Pirates of the Keweenaw" cardboard boat races offered "pirates" of various ages the challenge of keeping afloat in competitive races on the Portage Lake Ship Canal near Houghton Beach on Sunday, June 17. The "pirate" theme inspired some creative sailing garb and added an element of friendly rowdiness to the traditional rivalry between crews representing the cities of Hancock and Houghton. Keweenaw Now offers readers this three-page photo essay of the shenanigans and community fun. more
Photo: Crew members of "Technicolor Magic," a boat that tried to carry 14 "pirates," hit the water laughing as their cardboard "catamaran" splits in two during its one and only race. The shipwreck won it a prize for Best Sinking. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Lake Superior Basin feeling heat: Part 2

By Katie Alvord  Posted 06/03/2007


HOUGHTON -- The next G-8 summit starts on June 6 in Germany; and, with climate change high on the agenda, George W. Bush has responded to European pressures by announcing his own counter-proposals for stemming greenhouse gas emissions. As world political leaders debate what to do about climate change, several scientists from around Lake Superior say local plants and animals are already showing the effects of rising average temperatures. Their findings range from northward shifts in bird and small mammal ranges to unexpected plankton blooms to a diminishing moose population on Isle Royale, and some are expressing concern about what a warming climate might mean for our future. more
Photo: Isle Royale moose shows areas of skin rubbed bare due to tick infestation. Moose lose fur when they rub against trees in an attempt to remove ticks. Warmer temperatures favor ticks and make moose more vulnerable to winter tick infestations. (Photo © 2007 John Vucetich. Reprinted with permission.)

Second renewable energy forum attracts large crowd

By Katie Alvord  Posted 05/21/2007


HANCOCK -- A larger-than-expected turnout at a Hancock renewable energy forum caught the organizers by surprise -- again. Well over 100 people flocked to the April 17 forum, "Renewable Energy: Reducing Home Energy Costs, Part 2," held at Lakeview Manor and organized by the Keweenaw Sustainability Project (KSP). The April forum featured talks by Terry McNinch about solar photovoltaics; Terry Kinzel on solar, hydroelectric, and wind power; Mike Benda on his large residential wind system; and Dave Bach about retrofitting homes for energy efficiency and conservation. The forum was a follow-up to the KSP renewable energy forum held in February, which also attracted a large crowd. KSP also sponsored a Solar, Wind and Retrofitted Home Tour on May 19, during which visitors were able to see some of the energy systems presented at the forums. more
Photo: More than 100 interested residents attended the April 17 forum, "Renewable Energy: Reducing Home Energy Costs, Part 2," held at Lakeview Manor in Hancock and organized by the Keweenaw Sustainability Project (KSP). (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu. Reprinted with permission.)

UPPCO reservoir development plan: Public comment deadline is May 21, 2007

Posted 05/18/2007


HANCOCK -- A deadline of May 21, 2007, approaches for public comment on the Upper Peninsula Power Company's (UPPCO's) plans to develop lighted private boat docks and "viewsheds" on six wild Upper Peninsula hydro-electric reservoirs (i.e., Prickett Dam, Bond Falls, Victoria Falls, Au Train, Cataract, and Boney Falls) in order to enhance the sale-ability of 7200 acres of adjacent forested lands that UPPCO plans to sell to a developer. These reservoirs all have license agreements issued from the Federal Energy Regulatory Agency (FERC) for the generation of hydroelectric power -- agreements requiring that UPPCO protect and enhance wildlife habitat, provide for public access and manage the forest for old-growth (at Bond Falls and Victoria Reservoirs). Concerned residents can find details on this issue at UPPAC.com and can send an email or letter expressing their views. Read more, including a sample letter to jwolfe@uppco.com. 

Two MTU students bike to Seattle for cancer survivorship

By Jeff Dambrun  Posted 05/16/2007


HOUGHTON -- An idea that started as a half-serious joke several years ago between Michigan Tech students Jay Prescott and Jeff Dambrun has now materialized into a reality. Jay and Jeff have created the Superior-Pacific Ride for Survivorship, a bicycle journey from Houghton, Mich., to Seattle, Wash., as well as a grassroots fundraiser through the Lance Armstrong Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports cancer survivorship efforts. Jay and Jeff are now on their way, and donations and pledges will be accepted until they reach Seattle in mid-June. Donations will go not only toward cancer research, but toward other important areas like education and social support for survivors and their families. more
Photo: Jay and Jeff with their bikes on a trail near Freda, Mich. (Photo © 2007 Ben Bittner. Reprinted with permission.)

Peace Corps Deputy Director to address Michigan Tech graduates

Posted 05/04/2007


HOUGHTON -- Josephine “Jody” Olsen, deputy director of the Peace Corps, will give the commencement address and receive an Honorary Doctorate in Sustainable International Development during Michigan Technological University's Spring Commencement ceremonies Saturday, May 5. As the deputy director of the Peace Corps, Olsen supports several initiatives, including strengthening the recruitment of older volunteers, measuring the impact of the Peace Corps and helping other countries promote volunteerism among their own people. MTU is home to the largest Master’s International Peace Corps programs in the country. The university has Master’s International programs in forestry, science education, disaster mitigation and civil and environmental engineering. Read more on Tech Today. See also our story about Amber Kenny, of Houghton, MTU Peace Corps Masters International graduate in forestry.

Lake Superior warming fast: Researchers surprised by strong trends

By Katie Alvord  Posted 05/03/2007


HOUGHTON -- A growing number of regional officials and researchers have been examining how climate change may already affect air, water and ice within the Lake Superior basin. This regional work is taking place as the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) completes its Fourth Assessment Report on the state of the world’s climate. The IPCC is releasing its 2007 assessment in segments, and the next will be released Friday, May 4. In the first in a series of articles on climate change, Keweenaw Now guest writer Katie Alvord reports recent climate changes affecting Lake Superior, as researched by scientists at the University of Minnesota Duluth and Michigan Tech University and as observed by meteorologists and by officials at Isle Royale National Park and Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. more
Photo: Ice melting along the Lake Superior shoreline in late March 2007. (Photo © 2007 Katie Alvord. Reprinted with permission.) 

Stupak statement on Iraq veto override vote

Posted 05/03/2007


WASHINGTON, D. C. -- While the U.S. House of Representatives failed to override President Bush's veto on the Iraq Accountability Act Conference Report, Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) says he will continue to press the Administration for accountability to end the war in Iraq. "We owe our troops the funding and equipment to complete their tour of duty and return home safely," Stupak said. "I will continue working with my colleagues towards legislation to end our military entanglement in the Iraqi Civil War. Our troops and their families have sacrificed too much for Congress to simply provide President Bush a blank check for an unending commitment to war in Iraq."

Manitou Island Bird Survey goes international

Posted 04/30/2007


HOUGHTON -- This spring will be the sixth year of the Manitou Island Bird Survey, a project of the Copper Country Audubon Club under the direction of Joseph Youngman. Manitou Island is the small island three miles long and three miles east of the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Each spring thousands of raptors of at least 13 species have been documented. Raptors that come to Manitou are part of the massive bird migration that moves up the Keweenaw Peninsula every spring. Visitors to the Second Annual Keweenaw International Migratory Bird Day Festival Friday and Saturday, May 4 - 5, in Copper Harbor, will have a chance to see many of these migrating birds and to learn about the Manitou Island Survey. more
Photo: Red-tailed Hawk in flight. (Photo © 2007 Joseph Youngman. Reprinted with permission.)

Stupak says Bush should sign Iraq Accountability bill

Posted and updated 04/26/2007


WASHINGTON, D. C. -- The U.S. House of Representatives approved on April 25 the Iraq Accountability Act Conference Report by a vote of 218 to 208. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) voted for the legislation. "The measure the House passed today supports our troops, honors our veterans and requires accountability from the Bush Administration and the Iraqi government," Stupak said. "The bill provides $4 billion more for our troops than the President requested and provides $1.8 billion more for veterans' neglected health needs." The bill would demand troop withdrawals begin on Oct. 1, 2007, or sooner and end by April 1, 2008, allowing for forces conducting certain noncombat missions. The Senate is expected to take up and pass the legislation Thursday, sending the measure to the President's desk. more 

"Power is in Our Hands Walk" calls for reducing carbon emissions

Posted 04/19/2007


HOUGHTON -- About 30 people attended a talk and pinwheel parade with the theme "The Power is in Our Hands" on a sunny Saturday, April 14, in Houghton. The event was part of a national campaign called "Step It Up, Congress -- Cut Carbon 80% Or More by 2050." More than 1,300 other "Step It Up" events took place across the country on this same day. The Houghton event started with a talk at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Anne Newcombe, who organized the event, talked of the need for laws to restrict carbon emissions; and Barry Solomon, Michigan Tech professor specializing in energy issues, gave advice about home conservation techniques. The parade walkers carried a banner stating, "Step It Up, Congress - Cut Carbon 80% by 2050," signs and pinwheels and walked from Houghton to Hancock and back. Some came by bike to protest fossil fuels. more
Photo: "The Power Is In Our Hands" walkers carry a banner expressing solidarity with the national "Step It Up, Congress" event to address climate change. The walk from Houghton to Hancock and back was a family-friendly community event coordinated with over 1,000 other related events around the country. (Photo © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu for Keweenaw Now.)

Renewable energy events draw local crowds

By Katie Alvord  Posted 04/07/2007


HOUGHTON --  A growing number of Copper Country residents like the idea of renewable power, if turnouts at recent meetings are any indication. A wind energy talk by Calumet Girl Scouts attracted attention in January. A Hancock forum on solar, wind, and energy conservation, sponsored by the Keweenaw Sustainability Project (KSP), drew a larger-than-expected crowd in February, as did a Small Wind Seminar sponsored by Michigan State University  Extension in Houghton in March. KSP will sponsor another forum, "Energy Costs, Part 2," at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Apr. 17, at Lakeview Manor in Hancock. The forum will include presentations on solar power, wind power and retrofitting older homes to save energy. more
Photo: This 10 KW wind turbine helps offset electricity needs for the adjacent home, which is also connected to the power grid. (Photo © American Wind Energy Association and courtesy Lynn Hamilton.)

Walk for Peace commemorates Iraq War anniversary

Posted 03/20/2007 


HANCOCK --  Nearly 45 persons, and a few pet dogs, walked from Hancock to Houghton and back on Sunday, Mar. 18, 2007, in a Walk for Peace commemorating the fourth anniversary of the War in Iraq. Although the local event was  not sponsored by any particular group, the Walk was in solidarity with peace events around the country, which included a march of thousands on the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., on March 17. Participants in the local Walk carried a variety of signs expressing their thoughts about the war, from "No More War" to "Money for Jobs and Education, not War and Occupation." more
Photo: Sign "No More War" is one of many carried by participants in the Walk for Peace from Hancock to Houghton and back on Sunday, March 18, 2007.  (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

International Women's Day, March 8, focuses on violence against women and girls

Posted 03/08/2007 


CALUMET -- The United Nations' message for March 8, International Women's Day 2007, is "Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls." While the U.N. holds a panel discussion on this worldwide problem today, why not think globally and act locally by supporting the Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter in Calumet. According to their newsletter, the Shelter needs such items as toilet paper, large diapers, laundry detergent, dish soap, trash and storage bags. Other ways to help are to purchase the Shelter cookbook or to donate Econo Foods receipts, stocks, cash, old cell phones and volunteer time. In 2006, 1299 individuals were served through the Shelter's crisis line, residential and non-residential services, while 4187.25 hours of direct service were provided by 12 volunteers. Send donations to Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter Home for Abused Women, P.O. Box 8, Calumet, MI 49913. See also our Oct. 14, 2006, article by Alex Matiella Novak, children's worker at the Shelter, "Walking Against Violence." 
Logo: United Nations logo for International Women's Day, March 8, 2007. Click on logo to view their Web site and information on "Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls." (Logo © 2007 United Nations. Reprinted with permission.)

DEQ withdraws proposed approval of sulfide mine application

By Michele Anderson  Posted 03/06/2007  Updated 03/07/2007


MARQUETTE, LANSING -- The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) announced on March 1, 2007, that it has withdrawn its Jan. 9, 2007, proposed decision to approve a permit for the Kennecott Minerals Company to conduct mining operations for nickel and copper at the proposed Eagle Project Mine on the Yellow Dog Plains near Marquette. DEQ Director Steven E. Chester announced that the public hearings, scheduled for March 6-8 in Marquette and March 12 in Lansing, will be postponed and rescheduled at a later date. Michelle Halley, attorney for  the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), one of several environmental and community groups opposed to the proposed sulfide mine, said the DEQ's withdrawal of its draft decision to permit the mine was caused by a  25-page report that "was highly critical of Kennecott's mining application and raised serious concerns over a possible collapse of the mine." more
Photo: "Ore body 150 feet down" is the title of this photo of the Salmon Trout River, which flows above the site of Kennecott Minerals' proposed sulfide mine near Marquette. The river contains a rare population of Coaster Brook Trout.  (Photo © 2007 Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve and courtesy www.savethewildup.org. Reprinted with permission.)

Keweenaw Krayons Mardi Gras celebration draws large crowd
Posted 02/26/2007  

MOHAWK -- Keweenaw County Sheriff Ron Lahti was named "King" at the Third Annual Keweenaw Krayons Mardi Gras celebration Feb. 20 at the Mohawk School. The "Queen" award went to Nancy Fisher, owner of Yarns & Threads of Lake Linden, who teaches fiber arts classes for Keweenaw Krayons and offers much support to the non-profit organization and to other Keweenaw area activities. Winner of the "Queen Mum" award was 90-year-old Melvi Grosnick of Traprock Valley. Melvi is also a key supporter, volunteer and participant at Keweenaw Krayons. A large crowd of all ages, including several Keweenaw County Commissioners, attended the community event, which included music, dancing, a Cajun dinner, a silent auction, arts and crafts and a New Orleans "French Quarter" café. Watch for more photos and learn more about Keweenaw Krayons on their Web site.
Photo: Don Keith, Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners chair, hands the crown to Mardi Gras "King," Sheriff Ron Lahti. Applauding in the background are, from left, Carol Rose, Keweenaw Krayons director of the Teen Graphic Arts and Marketing Program, and Kathy McEvers, Keweenaw County's Kermit's Kids Program director. Don and Kathy were last year's Mardi Gras royalty. Click on photo for larger version. (Photos © 2007 Gustavo Bourdieu, Keweenaw Now photographer.)

Obituary: Rev. Allen Goodrich
Posted 02/21/2007  

MOHAWK -- Rev. Allen Goodrich, 58, Pastor of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Mohawk passed away unexpectedly at his home in Mohawk on Thursday morning, Feb. 15, 2007. In 1990 Rev. Goodrich became Pastor of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Mohawk and was their Pastor until his time of death. He was instrumental in the formation of Keweenaw Lutheran Ministries, which led to the construction of Shepherd of the Sea Chapel in Copper Harbor. Pastor Al was an avid guitar player and teacher. He was also known and loved for going out of his way to marry couples -- not only in the church but wherever the couple requested, from Brockway Mountain to the Still Waters Garden. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2007, in the Bethany Lutheran Church in Mohawk. Friends may call at the Erickson Crowley Funeral Home in Calumet one hour prior to the service at the church or at www.ericksoncrowley.com. Read the obituary.

Babylon Bags the Big One in Winter Carnival Statue Competition 
Posted 02/10/2007  

HOUGHTON -- Delta Sigma Phi's frosty rendition of the hanging gardens of Babylon took first place in the highly competitive fraternity division of Michigan Tech's Winter Carnival snow statue contest. The huge diorama, "Euphrates Frozen in Time Shows Babylon in Its Prime," is located in front of the their house, 1421 Woodland Road, near Wadsworth Hall.  It reflects this year's theme, "Ancient Worlds Come to Play in Snowy Drifts of Modern Day." The elaborate sculptures included griffins with wings molded of clear ice, a fountain, the river Euphrates, a four-tiered backdrop replete with arches, and yards and yards of ice chains. Nabbing second place was Phi Kappa Tau for "Ancient Chinese Culture in an Icy Sculpture." A dragon snakes through the scene, which features a pair of fierce-looking foo dogs, mini-dragons with icy wings and Chinese music broadcasting from the fraternity house at 1209 West Quincy St. in Hancock. Read more about the winners and see photos and complete results on the MTU Winter Carnival Web site. 
Photo: This detail from a photo by S. Gowtham, MTU graduate student, shows some of the elaborate sculptures in Delta Sigma Phi's  first-place diorama, "Euphrates Frozen in Time Shows Babylon in Its Prime."  Click on photo for larger version and on "yards and yards of ice chains" above for another of S. Gowtham's photos of the winning creation. (Photos © 2007 S. Gowtham.  Reprinted with permission. Other photo links are to the MTU Winter Carnival Web site.)

Lahti stands with Granholm for stronger Michigan 
Posted 02/09/2007  

LANSING -- State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) responded recently to Governor Jennifer Granholm’s State of the State Address and praised the Governor for demonstrating solid leadership in rocky economic times. Rep. Lahti applauded Governor Granholm’s plan to leave no worker behind by investing in our workforce to make Michigan a magnet for cutting-edge technologies and good-paying, family sustaining jobs while promoting and working with established businesses and resources in order to protect the jobs we already have. Lahti noted alternative energy as a field with great potential and room for growth. He also said education issues are key to turning Michigan’s economy around. Lahti was recently named a member of the Michigan House Appropriations Committee and is to be the Chair of the Natural Resources Subcommittee and a member of the Human Services Subcommittee. more
Photo: State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) was one of eight escorts (four Representatives and four Senators) who welcomed Gov. Jennifer Granholm into the House chamber prior to her fifth State of the State Address Tuesday night, Feb. 6, before a joint convention of the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate. (Photo © 2007 and courtesy Mike Lahti. Reprinted with permission.)

Somalia: Another Front in the War on Terror?
By Ron Martin, Jr.  Posted 02/05/2007  

HOOD RIVER, ORE. -- For 16 years, Somalia has been a failed state with no central government, awash with weapons, wracked by clan rivalries and ruled by warlords. Only when the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) took control of southern and central Somalia last summer, did the United States administration become concerned about the threat of Somalia being taken over by Islamic extremists and becoming a potential safe haven and training ground for al-Qaeda, says guest author Ron Martin, Jr., who has a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Martin worked as Water and Sanitation Program Manager for a humanitarian nongovernmental organization in Somalia from December 2004 through June 2005. He offers an overview of recent events in Somalia, along with photos he took while working there. more
Photo: A Somali woman, with her child strapped onto her back, waters camels at a traditional well near Walaq, a rural area about 14 miles (22 km) southwest of Wajid. (Photo ©  2005 Ron Martin, Jr. Reprinted with permission.)

Residents oppose Mt. Bohemia rezoning requests at hearing
By Michele Anderson  Posted 01/29/2007  Updated 01/30/07

MOHAWK -- A public hearing on requests for zoning changes in Keweenaw County drew a crowd of nearly 50 to the Mohawk School on Jan. 16, as the Keweenaw County Planning Commission endeavored to update the County Zoning Map to correspond to the new proposed Keweenaw County zoning ordinance. The Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners is expected to approve the new proposed ordinance at their Feb. 14, 2007, meeting. While the hearing concerned five different rezoning requests for various parcels in the County, most of the discussion and public comment was devoted to a controversy surrounding a request by Black Bear, Inc., for rezoning part of the Mt. Bohemia property near Lac La Belle. The Keweenaw County Planning Commission intends to make a decision on the requests for rezoning at their regular monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, in the Courthouse in Eagle River. more
Photo: Ed Kisiel, left, Eagle Harbor Township supervisor, addresses the Keweenaw County Planning Commissioners during the Jan. 16, 2007, public hearing on the new zoning map in the Mohawk School.  Jon Soper, Planning Commission chairman, replies to questions as he displays a map showing zoning districts in question. (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

Artist Mary Biekkola Wright, Rick Kauppila named 2007 Heikinpäivä Hankooki Heikkis
Posted 01/18/2007

HANCOCK -- Hankooki Heikki, an honor given by the City of Hancock’s Finnish Theme Committee each year at the annual Heikinpäivä mid-winter festival, is bestowed on a person or people whose commitment to preserving and promoting Finnish culture in the area goes above and beyond "normal" efforts. This year the honors go to artist Mary Biekkola Wright -- affectionately known as the "chair lady" or "the woman with all the mittens" -- and her trusty behind-the-scenes helper Rick Kauppila. Read about their efforts, the coming Heikinpäivä events and other artwork on exhibit in Hancock. more
Photo: One of several colorful mittens from Mary Biekkola Wright's art project decorates the sidewalk along Quincy Street in preparation for the 2007 Heikinpäivä festivities. (Photo © 2007 Michele Anderson)

DEQ disappoints with "proposed" approval of Kennecott sulfide mine
Posted 01/13/2007  Updated 01/17/2007 and 03/05/2007

Editor's Note: The public hearings mentioned below have been postponed by the DEQ. Watch for an article on this. 

MARQUETTE, LANSING -- Several local groups express disappointment at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality's Jan. 9, 2007, "proposed decision" to approve permits to Kennecott Eagle Minerals Co. for their proposed sulfide mining operations below the Yellow Dog Plains in northwestern Marquette County. The DEQ will now continue its technical review and, by law, will make a final decision following another public hearing and comment period. Public hearings will be held from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. on March 6, 7 and 8, 2007, in the Michigan and Huron Rooms of the Northern Michigan University Center in Marquette. Written public comments on this "proposed decision" will be accepted through April 5, 2007. Several local groups -- including the Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve, Save the Wild UP, Huron Mountain Club, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community -- and statewide environmental groups say this proposed decision is wrong for Michigan. "The permit application is filled with ambiguous responses," said Michelle Halley, attorney for the National Wildlife Federation. "Kennecott is expecting the people of Michigan to trust that they can operate a sulfide mine that will not contaminate the surrounding areas, but the track record of both Kennecott and sulfide mining is filled with contamination and inaccurate predictions." Halley noted a recent study found that faulty water quality predictions and regulatory failures result in the approval of mines that create significant water pollution problems at more than three quarters of mines studied. Read more on Save the Wild U.P. and Northwoods Wilderness Recovery. Read the DEQ Decision. For a viewpoint from downstate, read Jack Lessenberry's Jan. 17, 2007, article, "Ready to swim in sulfuric acid?" in Detroit's Metro Times.

MTU Master's International Peace Corps Volunteer returns after service in Togo
By Michele Anderson and Amber Kenny Posted 01/10/2007

HOUGHTON -- From raising bush rats to planting trees to teaching teenagers about organic farming and health, Amber Lily Kenny of Houghton completed several important projects during her two years in Togo, West Africa. She shares with Keweenaw Now readers some inspiring and humorous tales of her adventures and cross-cultural experiences as a Michigan Tech Master's International Peace Corps Volunteer. Amber is back at MTU finishing her Master's research in forestry and hopes to return to West Africa to work in another aspect of international development. Read her stories and see two pages of photos.
Photo: Three-year-old Antoinette has fun cooking with Peace Corps Volunteer Amber Kenny during one of Antoinette's frequent visits to Amber's village home in Togo. (Photo © 2006 Amber Kenny)

Kris Freeman takes second win at U.S. Cross Country Championships
Posted 01/05/2007  

HOUGHTON -- Two-time Olympian Kris Freeman (Andover, NH), a member of the U.S. Ski Team, picked up his eighth U.S. gold medal by winning the 15K freestyle race Thursday, Jan. 4, at the U.S. Cross Country Championships on the Michigan Tech Trails, while 18-year-old Alexa Turzian (Sun Valley, ID) won the women's 10K freestyle race to become what is believed to be the youngest U.S. cross country champion. It was the second win in 24 hours for Freeman, who won the men's 10K classic on Wednesday. He covered the three-lap, 15K course in 39:34.7 with two-time Olympic teammate Lars Flora (Anchorage, AK) in second place (40:21.8) and James Southam (also of Anchorage), another 2006 Olympic athlete in third (40:38.2). Racers again faced temperatures in the low 40s and soft trail conditions. After the races on Thursday, volunteers moved several truckloads of snow, using their backs and their shovels to ensure a solid base for Saturday's individual classic sprint races. On Sunday, for the first time ever, the U.S. championships will include a team relay event. Teams of two skiers will alternate, skiing three laps each. Sunday's events begin at 10 am. A complete list of results and the schedule for the remaining three races are at www.seniornationals.org. Read details and see photos on the U.S. Ski Team Web site. Photos are also being posted on Brockit.com.
Photo: James Southam of Anchorage, Alaska, leads a group of skiers up a slope at the MTU Trails during the U.S. Cross Country Championships 15K freestyle race on Thursday, Jan. 4. Olympic athlete Southam finished third in the race, winning a bronze medal. Click on photo for a larger version. (Photo © 2007 Adam Johnson of Brockit.com. Reprinted with permission.)

NMU student Lindsay Weier takes women's classic ski title
Posted 01/04/2007  

HOUGHTON -- Lindsay Weier of Mahtomedi, Minn., a Northern Michigan University student, took the women's classic ski title Wednesday, Jan. 3, in the U.S. Cross Country Championships as the U.S. Ski Team dominated the opening day of the 2007 Championship races at the Michigan Tech Nordic Training Center (MTU Trails) in Houghton. Weier and Kris Freeman, of Andover, N.H., winner of the men's race, are both members of the U.S. Ski Team and competed in the 2002 and 2006 Olympics. Weier will also compete with her NMU college team this year. U.S. team members took five of the six podium spots in the men's 10 km and the women's 5 km races. The races also include the U.S. disabled championships. Chris Klebl won the men's sit-ski competition, while Monica Bascio won the women's title. Sit skiers traverse the course on a skiing equivalent to a wheelchair, using their poles and arm strength to propel themselves. Skiers report the trails held up well despite record high temperatures for January, with the mercury soaring to 41. Groomers are working late into the night getting the track ready for the freestyle race on Thursday. Read more and see results on the Senior Nationals Web site.
Photo: Junior Olympics skiers compete on Michigan Tech's cross country trails in March 2006. Some of these skiers graduate to compete in the U.S. Cross Country Championships being held this week on the MTU Trails, which have held up under warm weather conditions for both competitions. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2006 Adam Johnson of Brockit.com. Reprinted with permission.)

Mt. Bohemia zoning issues to top Dec. 14 Planning Commission meeting
By Michele Anderson   Posted 12/13/2006  Updated 12/14/2006

EAGLE RIVER -- Definitions and uses of yurts in relation to the Mt. Bohemia Ski Resort at Lac La Belle will be a major topic for discussion at the Keweenaw County Planning Commission meeting to be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14. (Please note this time. Keweenaw Now regrets the error in the time posted on Dec. 13.) The discussion on yurts was tabled at the Nov. 28 Planning Commission meeting, during which Lonie Glieberman, Mt. Bohemia Ski Resort (Black Bear, Inc.) president, and his attorney Frank Ellias addressed the Commission with concerns about definitions of ski resorts, ski hills and yurts in the new potential Keweenaw County zoning ordinance. The Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners is expected to vote on the new ordinance by February or March, 2007. more
Photo: Lonie Glieberman, Mt. Bohemia Ski Resort (Black Bear, Inc.) president, addresses the Keweenaw County Planning Commission during their Nov. 28 meeting in the Courthouse in Eagle River. At left is Planning Commissioner Joe Langdon of Lac La Belle. (Photo © 2006 Michele Anderson)

DEQ proceeds with Kennecott sulfide mine application, still opposed by community groups
By Emily Svenson and Michele Anderson   Posted 11/22/2006 

MARQUETTE -- The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) resumed processing Kennecott Minerals' application for a sulfide mine under the Yellow Dog Plains and Salmon Trout River on Oct. 26, 2006. A debate over the proposed Eagle Project mine, to be located about 30 miles northwest of Marquette, has been ongoing since the spring of 2003, when Kennecott’s proposition became public. Both local and national groups oppose the mine, citing especially the danger of Acid Mine Drainage to trout streams and ultimately Lake Superior. On Nov. 14, 2006, the DEQ issued a permit review update on the proposed Eagle Project mine, stating public comments on Kennecott’s response to the DEQ's questions on their initial application will be accepted until Dec. 26, 2006. The DEQ will make a proposed decision to grant or deny the Part 632 permit application on January 9, 2007, and will also issue notice of a consolidated public hearing (on the Part 632 permit and on air and groundwater permit applications) expected to be held in mid-February. more
Photo: A view of the Salmon-Trout River, which flows through an area proposed for Kennecott Minerals' Eagle Project sulfide mine. The River contains a rare population of Coaster Brook Trout. (File photo © 2005 Northwoods Wilderness Recovery. Reprinted with permission.)

Sen. Levin calls for phased redeployment of U.S. forces in Iraq
Posted 11/19/2006 

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Michigan's U. S. Senator Carl Levin addressed the Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on Iraq on Nov. 15. "Our uniformed military leaders have repeatedly told us that there’s no military solution to the violence in Iraq and that a political agreement between the Iraqi sectarian factions themselves is the only way to end the violence," Levin said. "We should put the responsibility for Iraq’s future squarely where it belongs -- on the Iraqis. We cannot save the Iraqis from themselves. The only way for Iraqi leaders to squarely face that reality is for President Bush to tell them that the United States will begin a phased redeployment of our forces within four to six months." Sen. Levin is preparing to chair the Senate Armed Services Committee, of which he has been a member throughout his career. He previously chaired the Committee from June 2001 to January 2003. Visit Sen. Levin's Web site for the text of his speech to the Committee.
Photo: U. S. Senator Carl Levin at the Senate podium. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo courtesy Sen. Levin's Web site. Reprinted with permission.)

Democrats win major races in Houghton County with 52% voter turnout
By Michele Anderson  Posted and Updated 11/09/2006 

HOUGHTON -- Despite a voter turnout of only 52.15% of registered voters in Houghton County, Democrats scored victories in the major races, reflecting the national trend in this election that, according to the Associated Press, now gives the party a ruling majority in both chambers of Congress for the first time since 1994. Voters showed confidence in Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, giving her 6,497 votes (54.21%) to 5,275 (44.02%) for her major challenger, Republican Dick DeVos. Houghton County voters also gave significant margins of victory to other major incumbent Democrats: U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Representative Bart Stupak and State Senator Mike Prusi -- all of whom retain their positions. Houghton County voters helped  elect Hancock's Mike Lahti, presently Houghton County Commission chair, to the 110th District State Representative position to be vacated by term-ended Rich Brown (D-Bessemer). Democrat Anton Pintar took one of two contested Houghton County Commissioner seats, defeating Republican John Condon. County Commissioner Paul Luoma (D) retains his seat after defeating challenger Matt E. Huuki. more

Keweenaw County voters pick winning Michigan Democrats 
By Michele Anderson  Posted 11/08/2006 

EAGLE RIVER -- Election results for Keweenaw County were completed just before 10 p.m. Tuesday evening, Nov. 7, reporting 632 total votes for Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm against 507 votes for her major opponent, Dick DeVos. According to the Detroit Free Press, Granholm addressed supporters in Detroit shortly after 11 p.m., announcing she had just received congratulations from DeVos. In other major races, Keweenaw County voters contributed to victories by incumbent Democrats, including U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Representative Bart Stupak and State Senator Mike Prusi. Democrat Mike Lahti of Hancock also received support from Keweenaw County in his victory for the 110th District State Representative position. Three contested Keweenaw County Commissioner seats went to Don Keith, Randy Eckloff and Joe Langdon. more
Photo: Governor Jennifer Granholm addresses local residents in the Courthouse in Eagle River during her visit to Keweenaw County on Aug. 17, 2005. (Keweenaw Now file photo © 2005 Michele Anderson)

Ballot Proposal 2: End of Affirmative Action?
By Bryan Tyler  Posted 11/02/2006 

HOUGHTON -- With the Nov. 7 Election fast approaching, one controversial issue on the upcoming ballot is the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative (MCRI), also known as Proposal 2. Guest writer Bryan Tyler reports on recent visiting speakers at Michigan Tech -- Susan Kaufmann, Associate Director of the Center for the Education of Women at the University of Michigan, who has done research on potential impacts of the MCRI, and Frank Wu, dean of Wayne State University Law School, who spoke on "The New Civil Rights  in the 21st Century" at the Rozsa Center. Tyler presents an in-depth article on the pros and cons of the MCRI, including interviews with MTU President Glenn Mroz and Chris Anderson, special assistant to the president for Institutional Diversity and executive director of Educational Opportunity at Michigan Tech. more
Photo: Frank Wu, dean of Wayne State University Law School, recently spoke at Michigan Tech on "The New Civil Rights  in the 21st Century." He also visited MTU classes and discussed  racial and gender inequality in American institutions. Wu is the author of Yellow: Race in America Beyond Black and White, in which he recounts what it was like growing up as a member of the minority. (Photo © 2006 Emil Groth.) 

Park Superintendent to retire 

Posted 10/12/2006

CALUMET -- Frank C. Fiala, Superintendent of Keweenaw National Historical Park (KNHP) since April, 1997, will retire on January 3, 2007, after nearly 32 years of Federal service. Fiala’s assignments during his National Park Service career have included park ranger and management positions at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve in Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico and Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado. Fiala also served as a medic in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1973. Fiala and his wife Emily plan to remain in the Copper Country and continue their involvement in a wide range of activities.

Stupak addresses bio-fuel plant opening
Posted 08/21/2006 

WASHINGTON, D. C. -- Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) spoke at the Aug. 18 opening of a bio-fuel plant in Gladstone, Michigan -- the first biodiesel plant in the state. The facility, which is being opened by AG Solutions Inc., is expected to produce more than 20 million gallons of biodiesel fuel per year from agriculture projects. Speaking alongside Governor Jennifer Granholm (D-MI), Stupak used the event to call for a new direction in U.S. energy policy. Stupak said he has been working in Washington to support laws and policies that foster innovation and development of alternative energy use. more

Houghton, Keweenaw county voters support Democratic candidates in Primary
By Michele Anderson  Posted 08/10/2006 

HOUGHTON, EAGLE RIVER -- In the Aug. 8 Primary election, voters in Houghton and Keweenaw counties showed support for Michigan Democratic candidates -- both incumbents and newcomers. Governor Jennifer Granholm received a total of 1731 votes in the two counties, leading her Republican opponent, Dick DeVos, who garnered only 905 Houghton-Keweenaw votes. A two-county total of 1696 votes helped Mike Lahti, presently Houghton County Commission chair, in the race for 110th District State Representative. He secured the Democratic candidate position over local Democratic opponents and more than doubled the two-county total of 819 Primary votes received by his Republican opponent, Dave Schmidt. Voters in the Primary also sought changes in some county offices. more

State Rep. Rich Brown endorses Mike Lahti for Aug. 8 Primary Election
Posted 08/07/2006 

HANCOCK -- In a recent letter to constituents, Rich Brown (D-Bessemer), term-ended state representative for Michigan's 110th House District, expresses his support for Mike Lahti of Hancock, who is running for this seat in the primary election to be held Aug. 8, 2006. "Mike has a keen knowledge and understanding of our community," Brown writes. "As a small-business owner, he knows the challenges we face in creating good-paying jobs. He also knows the importance of quality education and the need to make college affordable (Lahti served for seven years on the Hancock School Board and currently is vice-chairman of Finlandia University's Board of Trustees)." Brown adds, "Mike also will work to protect our Great Lakes. He will work to protect our rivers, lakes and streams, and to preserve our beautiful Great Lakes State." Lahti is currently Chairman of the Houghton County Board of Commissioners. Three other Democrats are running in the primary for this two-year- term  position: Wendell Patrick Dompier of Baraga, Keith D. Hamel of Iron River and Travis Peterson of Baraga. See the Official Michigan Primary Candidate Listing. Learn more about Mike Lahti's campaign on his Web site www.mikelahti.org. For voter information visit the Michigan Voter Information Center. Photo: Mike Lahti. (Photo © 2006 and courtesy Mike Lahti and State Farm Insurance Co. Reprinted with permission.)

Students learn practical side of research at Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair
By Julia Kalloz and Ezekiel Fugate  Posted 07/27/2006 

HOUGHTON -- Custer, a small town not much more than a cluster of homes, sits just outside of Stevens Point, Wis. Approximately 2,000 people normally call Custer home; but from June 23-25, 2006, nearly 19,000 inquisitive people flocked to a large farm owned and operated by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association’s (MREA's) ReNew the Earth Institute in order to attend  the MREA’s 18th annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair, which offered 160 workshops on renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable living and showcased products and information from over 200 exhibitors. Students doing research in sustainability through Michigan Tech University's Sustainable Futures Institute program, Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU), who attended the Fair, present their impressions and photos of the event. more
Photo: Julia Kalloz and Ezekiel Fugate, co-authors of this article, visit one of the solar energy exhibits at the 18th annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair in Custer, Wis., last June. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2006 Michele Anderson)

U. S. Sen. Carl Levin addresses local Democrats
By Michele Anderson Posted 07/10/2006  Updated 07/26/06

HANCOCK -- United States Senator Carl Levin (D-Detroit) spoke of his views on Iraq and the policies of the Bush administration and fielded questions from Houghton County Democrats during their July 2, 2006, dinner at the Ramada Inn in Hancock. Levin, a member of the Armed Services Committee, spoke about the recent Levin-Reed amendment, which was intended to urge President Bush to tell the Iraqis we are going to begin our redeployment out of Iraq this year. Although the amendment failed, Levin said he believed most of the public and the American military agree on ending the open-ended commitment we have in Iraq. He also commented on the need for checks and balances "to rein in this president, who thinks he's all powerful ..." Levin welcomed questions from the audience and expressed strong support for Michigan Democrats running for re-election, including Gov. Jennifer Granholm, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow and U.S. Rep. Bart Stupak. more
Photo: Cassie Van Dam, 12, Houghton Middle School student, asks U.S. Senator Carl Levin for his autograph during Sen. Levin's visit with local Democrats in Hancock on July 2, 2006, at the Ramada Inn. Also pictured are Cassie's grandmother Carol Kurtz of Calumet and George Love of Houghton. (Photo © 2006 Michele Anderson)

MDEQ decision on sulfide mine to be postponed
Posted 06/13/2006  

MARQUETTE -- According to a June 1 article in the Marquette Mining Journal, Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Paula J.M. Manderfield in Lansing has ordered the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) to postpone its decision on a Kennecott Minerals permit application for sulfide mining on the Yellow Dog Plains, Marquette County. Originally anticipated to be announced June 13, the MDEQ's decision is to be postponed until after the court conducts a June 22 hearing on an appeal filed by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, four tribal members of the community, the Huron Mountain Club and the Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve Inc. Read the Mining Journal article, "Permit hits snag." Several letters to the editor recently challenged an editorial in the Detroit News endorsing the Kennecott mining project. See "State should reject flawed U.P. mine plan," by Michelle Halley, Lake Superior Project Manager for the National Wildlife Federation, and Brad Garmon, Land Programs Director for the Michigan Environmental Council, and read other letters that appeared in the Detroit News June 2. For more information see Save the Wild UP. 
Photo: View of the Yellow Dog River, a wild trout stream in northern Marquette County. The proposed sulfide mine sits on the cusp of the Salmon-Trout River and the Yellow Dog River watersheds. (File photo © 2004 and courtesy Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve and Eagle Alliance. Reprinted with permission.)

Keweenaw Land Trust marks decade of  land, water conservation

By Bryan Tyler  Posted 05/26/2006  

HANCOCK --  Ten years have passed since the Keweenaw Land Trust (KLT) began as a group of hopeful volunteers working with minimal recognition to protect the area’s quality of life through conservation, while trying to convince the public of their cause. Guest writer Bryan Tyler interviewed Evan McDonald, KLT executive director, for a report on KLT's recent conservation accomplishments, including the Paavola Wetlands Preserve, the Manitou Island Light Station Preserve and the return this July of the tall ship Denis Sullivan, a participant in the Land to Sea Expedition, a program promoting water and land conservation. more
Photo: A spring evening at the Keweenaw Land Trust's Paavola Wetlands Preserve has the pond alive with the sounds of birds and frogs. KLT recently expanded the preserve, which has a trail system available for educational hikes through the marshland. (Photo © 2006 Evan McDonald. Reprinted with permission.)

Forum on anti-gay chalkings challenges MTU officials' leadership 

By Paula McCambridge  Posted 04/20/2006  Updated 04/25/06

HOUGHTON -- Michigan Tech community members -- faculty, staff and students -- pushed facilitator rules beyond their limits Wednesday night, Apr. 19, as they expressed their opinions at a public forum created to discuss the hate messages targeting MTU's GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender) community chalked all over campus on April 7. Some accused MTU administrators of lack of communication and lack of leadership concerning minority issues in general. Others expressed sympathy toward university administrators who, they said, “may have been blindsided” by the event. After accepting a letter from Keweenaw Pride, MTU President Glenn Mroz said the crime was possibly a “push-back crime” because of his work making diversity a top issue on campus. more 
Photo: Early this week Michigan Tech students attempted to counter the anti-gay chalkings by writing positive messages in chalk on campus sidewalks. This cheerful drawing bears the message of a popular Reggae tune: "Don't Worry, Be Happy."  (Photo © 2006 and courtesy Shannon Healy. Reprinted with permission.)

Rolf Peterson "retires" to continue wolf research on Isle Royale

Posted 04/17/2006  

HOUGHTON -- Rolf Peterson, who put the wolves of Isle Royale on the map -- and did quite a bit to put Michigan Tech on the map in the process, is retiring from the teaching aspect of his professorship. His retirement means that now, after 32 years of helming what has become one of the world’s best known and most highly regarded ongoing research projects, Peterson, a professor in Michigan Tech's School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, will be concentrating solely on his research, a study of the relationship between the wolves and the moose of Isle Royale. Matthew Norman, MTU Lode news editor, interviewed Peterson about his research and his plans to continue spending summers on Isle Royale. Read the MTU Lode article.
Photo: MTU Professor Rolf Peterson photographed these wolves crossing the ice along the shore of Isle Royale. (File photo © and courtesy Rolf Peterson. Reprinted with permission.)

MTU officials condemn anti-gay chalkings on campus

Posted 04/07/2006  

HOUGHTON -- Michigan Tech University officials made statements today condemning derogatory anti-gay messages written in chalk on the campus. Tech Today sent out an email Friday quoting President Glenn Mroz as stating, "'Incidents such as this cause both fear and discomfort on campus and are completely unacceptable. A campus community is one where the freedom of speech and thought should be embraced and encouraged; however, there are limits to what is appropriate and these individuals definitely crossed the line.'" Dr. Les Cook, Vice President for Student Affairs, was quoted as saying, "'We will not stand for this type of behavior. Hopefully we can use this incident as a teaching moment as to what is and is not appropriate.'" University groups have been celebrating (Gay) Pride Week with various activities all this week. Students and the public have been asked to contact MTU Public Safety at 487-2216 with any information on who might have done these chalkings. Public Safety is conducting a full investigation of the incident. 

MTU's Engineers Without Borders helps Bolivian school

Posted 03/30/2006  

HOUGHTON -- Just a little more than a year old, Michigan Tech's chapter of Engineers Without Borders (EWB-MTU) completed its first international project in November 2005, when seven students and two MTU Professors, David Watkins and Kurt Paterson, both faculty in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, spent about a week building a sewage treatment system and bathroom facilities for the Buen Samaritano (Good Samaritan) School in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Much of the assessment and design components of the project were completed by Michigan Tech International Senior Design (ISD) students who subsequently founded EWB-MTU. Some of the students in the group are also MTU Peace Corps Masters International students. The three groups work together on projects; and EWB now has 75 members volunteering their time, raising funds for future projects and doing outreach in the local community as they become better engineers and citizens of the world. EWB members share their experiences and two pages of  photos. more
Photo: EWB member Laura Oman poses with her new friend, Erman, during a break in the November 2005 EWB construction project in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. (Photo © 2005 Kurt Paterson. Reprinted with permission.)

Behind the scenes: MTU Winter Carnival 2006

By Wade Wainio. Posted 02/10/2006  

HOUGHTON -- Keweenaw Now's newest reporter, Wade Wainio of Atlantic Mine, interviewed some Michigan Tech students Wednesday night as they put finishing touches on their Winter Carnival snow statues. He happened to catch some photos of what turned out to be the Number 1 winner among the fraternities: Delta Sigma Phi's entry, "Aladdin in the Land of Frozen Sand."  more
Photo: Delta Sigma Phi's entry, "Aladdin in the Land of Frozen Sand," depicts a market scene in front of a castle, including this impressive snake. (Photo © 2006 Wade Wainio)

Heikinpäivä mittens decorate Hancock

Posted 02/09/2006  

HANCOCK -- Have you seen the colorful mittens in downtown Hancock? Some of the best from the Heikinpäivä parade line the sidewalk in front of Hancock Middle School, and others are  dispersed through the downtown area. Community Artist Mary Wright, the originator of the mitten project, has extended it to include an art project for painting more mittens to be mounted on Hancock