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Coke Gives $10,000 to Clean Snowmobile Challenge

by Marcia Goodrich, senior writer

The Coca-Cola Foundation has donated $10,000 on behalf of Coca-Cola of Hancock to support the SAE Clean Snowmobile Challenge.

The challenge, set for March 15-20, is a collegiate design competition of the Society of Automotive Engineers. Students from 19 participating schools are reengineering stock snowmobiles to reduce emissions and noise while maintaining or boosting performance.

Rob and Gary Scholie (pronounced sko-lee), owners of Coca-Cola of Hancock, have supported the challenge for years though their donations of Coke products. The challenge benefits the community, they said, which prompted them to go to the Coca-Cola Foundation for additional support. 
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Township Responds To City Water Rate Increase

IRONWOOD - A request for a zoning variance at the Pub and Grub was denied by the Township Board of Trustees. At Monday’s meeting the board unanimously declined to rezone the local eatery for adult entertainment establishment usage. HMMMM.

Due to the 9% water rate increase inflicted by the Ironwood City Manager Scott Erickson, the water rates charged to Township water customers require an adjustment to keep up with the city’s immoral rate structure. The Township held off passing along the increase until now, when the revenue shortage is $24,000.
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MT ZION SKI AREA CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

 The Mt. Zion Ski Area located on the campus of Gogebic Community College is now closed for the season.  Indianhead Mountain is honoring Mt. Zion season passes.  Mt. Zion management and the Ski Area Management Program thank you for your patronage.

 

Airport Recreation Park Plan Moves Forward

IRONWOOD - The Parks and Recreation Committee met at the Township Offices Wednesday evening to discuss a DNR grant application for construction of Airport Recreation Park, located on Airport Road. The meeting was called to hear public comment on the park plan.

The marathon session lasted well into the evening with the committee members discussing every aspect of the grant application and the details of the project itself.
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4th Annual Polar Plunge

Regional Hospice will be holding the 4th annual Polar Plunge, which has also been called the first beach party of the year, March 27, in Sunday Lake. Registration will begin at 1:00p.m. at the Wakefield VFW, with the plunge beginning at 2:00. Immediately after the plunge, an award party will be held at the Wakefield VFW for all plungers and spectators. Lunch will be served and door prizes awarded.

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Students Win Prestigious Scholarships

HOUGHTON - Michigan Tech students Kara Oikarinen and Nicole VanBelle have been named winners of prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships for study abroad. They were among 900 undergraduates selected for the competitive scholarships from more than 3,000 applicants nationwide.
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The White Pine Copper Refinery has been producing more than 76,000 tons of copper a year

Story by Meagan Quigley, Your Upper Michigan Source powered by WLUCTV6 News

ONTONAGON--For the past 28 years, the White Pine Copper Refinery has been producing more than 76,000 tons of copper a year.  But now the plant is in trouble.  It may have to close in a few months.  The plant's owner, HudBay Minerals, is closing its smelter in Manitoba, leaving the refinery without a copper source.
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The Frozen Minnow Triathlon

IRONWOOD - The Frozen Minnow Triathlon was held on Saturday. The Frozen Minnow consists of a 2k cross country ski at Mt. Zion ski area, a 1 mile run and a 200 yard swim in the Gogebic Community College pool.

Participants competed as individuals or as part of a team. Although the Frozen Minnow Triathlon is designed as a race for kids 16 and younger.
Story by Tracy Rowe
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Big Group Gathering and Open House

Monday, March 15
6:00 PM
Room B-21, Jacob Solin Center for Business Education, Gogebic Community College, Ironwood, Michigan

Hear Updates from the four Next Generation Initiative Work-groups:
·      Attract Young Workers by Strengthening Our Niche
·      Attract Young Workers by Promoting Our Strengths
·      Retain Students by Better Connecting them to the Community
·      Go-In Forward Next Generation Group
Presentations will begin at 6:00 – to be followed by an open house and light refreshments.

Everybody is Invited! 

E-TC Boosters Plan Fund Raisimg Events

The Ewen-Trout Creek Booster Club will be meeting on March 23rd @ 7pm in the school cafeteria. The booster club will be planning upcoming fund raising events. Everyone is welcome and encourage to attend this important meeting regarding athletics at E-TC for the 2010-2011 school year. If you have any questions you can contact Shawn Brown at (906) 827-3635 after 6pm.

Township Responds To City Water Rate Increase

IRONWOOD - A request for a zoning variance at the Pub and Grub was denied by the Township Board of Trustees. At Monday’s meeting the board unanimously declined to rezone the local eatery for adult entertainment establishment usage. HMMMM.

Due to the 9% water rate increase inflicted by the Ironwood City Manager Scott Erickson, the water rates charged to Township water customers require an adjustment to keep up with the city’s immoral rate structure. The Township held off passing along the increase until now, when the revenue shortage is $24,000.
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Fusion Fest 2010 is Saturday, March 20th

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University’s International School of Art & Design will host its third annual Fusion Fest art and music festival Saturday, March 20, 12:00 to 6:00 p.m., at the university’s Jutila Center campus. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Featured at the festival are art demonstrations, live music, an art scavenger hunt, group painting, raku pottery demonstrations, tie dyeing, children’s activities, food, free dancing lessons from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., an artist’s market with work from students and local artists, and more.
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Michigan Tech will host the 2010 NCAA Divison II

Midwest Women's Basketball Regional. The Huskies are the top seed and will face eighth-seeded Northern Kentucky at 6 p.m., Friday, March 12, in a quarterfinal game.

The other three quarterfinals for Friday are:
No. 3 Drury vs. No. 6 Southern Indiana, 12 p.m.
No. 2 Indianapolis vs. No. 7 Northern Michigan, 2:30 p.m.
No. 4 Wisconsin-Parkside vs. No. 5 Findlay, 8:30 p.m.
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Tech Cross Country Teams Earn Academic Award


The 2009 men's and women's cross country teams were both named Scholar Teams by the NCAA Division II US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

The women's team, with a 3.59 cumulative team grade point average, finished tied for 11th out of the 97 teams who received the award. The women also finished second among the eight Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference teams to be honored.
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Local organizations to host teleconference: Cancer and End-of-Life Care

Regional Hospice Services, Gogebic Co. MSU Extension, and Iron Co. UW-Extension will join together later this month to present the Hospice Foundation of America’s 17th annual Living With Grief teleconference.
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Another Lamb Ambush

IRONWOOD - The city commission met in a regularly scheduled meeting. Once again, Gemma Lamb used the “Other Matters” portion of the Agenda to embarrass both herself and the City of Ironwood. Items discussed under other matters are not listed on the agenda. Therefore, taxpayers cannot speak either for against the issue.
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Art  "A Family Affair"

HANCOCK - The Finlandia University Reflection Gallery is currently hosting an exhibit of color reduction relief prints by Tom Rudd and Margo McCafferty. An opening reception for the artists took place this past Thursday at the Reflection Gallery at the Jutila Campus.

Tom and Margo make their prints during the winter months. The remainder of the year each pursues their own art interest. Tom and Margo will be doing a series as they work with the Finlandia art students. Tom said one of the difficulties they face is that it is usually six to nine months between print making sessions and some aspects of the learning curve begin all over again.
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Parents Appreciation Night At The Civic Center

IRONWOOD - The doors opened at 6:00pm and within an hour the crowd began to swell. By 7:00 pm skaters were filing the benches putting on their skates and a line began to form at the entrance.  By that time the lights had already dimmed on the ice and the mirrored globe was swirling.  Kids and parents enjoyed the evening skating to music  played by Joe Rimkus.
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Broomball Fundraiser @ The "Pat"

IRONWOOD - The Law Enforcement Team entered the ice rink perhaps thinking that they would be facing off against a tired group of firefighters. What they actually met was a team that had just warmed up! The Law Enforcement Team consisted of a large group of high-profile players; a judge, county clerk, city clerk, county treasurer and a county sheriff.
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Ewen-Trout Creek Honor Roll

EWEN - The Ewen - Trout Creek School District has released its second quarter Honor Roll for grades six through twelve.

Honor Roll 1 represents those students earning an all "A" grade.

Honor Roll 2 represents a gpa above 3.00

View Entire E-TC Honor

Keep Those Snow Shovels Handy

While 40 degree days make make it seem like it's springtime, weather stats tell use otherwise.

The average Gogebic County Snowfall in March is 25.3 inches.

In the winter of 2001/2002 Gogebic County had a march snowfall of 68.9 inches.

Read Gogebic Snowfall History

$12 million-plus in Recovery Act funding approved for non-urban transit agencies and rural intercity bus service

March 5, 2010 -- Michigan's non-urban transit agencies and rural intercity bus service will share $12.4 million in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) grants, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Gogebic Gogebic County Transit will receive Operating assistance in the amount of $11,831.
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E-TC Pops Concert

 The Ewen-Trout Creek Music Department will be performing their 10th annual pops concert on Friday, March 19, 2010 at 7:00 PM (EST).  This year’s concert, appropriately titled “A Splash of Pops,” will feature several recognizable ocean-themed favorites for all ages.  The program will include a wide array of music such as songs by The Beach Boys, the themes from SpongeBob SquarePants and Hawaii Five-O, as well as music from the films Titanic and Pirates of the Caribbean, just to name a few.  There will be refreshments and baked goods available after the performance.
 
Cost for admission is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children ages 12 and under.  All proceeds from the Pops Concert will benefit the Ewen-Trout Creek Music Department.  Come out and support the music program at Ewen-Trout Creek and enjoy a wonderful night of music!!

Freisinger to Sign “Nostalgia’s Thread”

Finlandia’s North Wind Books will host a book signing with poet Randall R. Freisinger Friday, March 26, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served.
Freisinger, professor emeritus of rhetoric, literature, and creative writing at Michigan Technological University, Houghton, has recently released a book of
poems titled, “Nostalgia’s Thread: Ten Poems on Norman Rockwell Paintings.”
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Public Invited to Attend DNRE Open Houses to Discuss Deer Management Plan

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is inviting the public to participate in the deer management planning process. Four public meetings have been held, and another four are occurring in the next couple weeks. The DNRE will present and discuss the draft statewide deer management plan. These meetings will be held 7 to 9 p.m. EST, with the exception of the Crystal Falls meeting, which will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. CST.
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Sparrow, MSU team up to provide medical relief, long-term aid to Haiti

Members of the MSU community show their support for victims of the Haiti earthquake during a vigil near Beaumont Tower on Jan. 20, 2010. Photo by G.L. Kohuth
Michael R. Clark, chief of the medical staff at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Courtesy photo
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University and Lansing’s Sparrow Hospital are joining forces to provide medical relief and establish a long-term partnership in earthquake-torn Haiti.
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Burchell Seeks Tennis Court Funding

IRONWOOD - The Parks and Recreation Committee finally met today to discuss the grant application for additional tennis courts near Longyear Park.  This was the second attempt to meet for the “Urgent” grant application. The regularly scheduled meeting was never held as there was not a quorum present.
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MTU Commits to Financial Aid

by Jennifer Donovan, director of public relations

HOUGHTON - The Board of Control has announced a significant increase in financial aid for students struggling to afford a college education.

In special remarks delivered at the Board's regular meeting today, Finance and Audit Committee Chairman Steve Hicks said that Michigan Tech will increase financial aid by approximately 10 percent for next school year. Financial aid totals $38 million, 20 percent of the University's budget. The board has asked President Glenn Mroz and his administrative team to include this increase in the fiscal year 2010–11 budget.
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16 Finalists Announced in Phase 1 of Race to the Top

16 Finalists Announced in Phase 1 of Race to the Top Competition Finalists to Present in Mid-March; Winners Announced in Early April

Today the Department of Education announced that 15 states and the District of Columbia will advance as finalists for phase 1 of the Race to the Top competition. Race to the Top is the Department's $4.35 billion effort to dramatically re-shape America's educational system to better engage and prepare our students for success in a competitive 21st century economy and workplace.
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2010 U.P. State Fair Logo

ONTONAGON - Hubert Lukkari,  state fair representative provided the Ontonagon County Commissioners with a preview of what the 2010 fair logo will look like. The logo is selected from student entries.

View Semi-Finalists

How Will Forests Grow as the Climate Changes?

HOUGHTON -
Michigan Technological University and the US Forest Service Institute for Applied Ecosystem Studies (FS IAES) have received $1.1 million in US Forest Service funding to conduct new research that asks that question.
“Forests grow differently when they are exposed to carbon dioxide, ozone and other pollutants,” explained Andrew Burton, a professor in Michigan Tech’s School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. Burton is Michigan Tech’s lead investigator on the new research study. 
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Wisconsin Assembly Cracks Down On Indian Logos


WISCONSIN - Wisconsin lawmakers are considering cracking down on public school districts that continue to feature Native American logos for their sports teams and mascots.
Last week the State Assembly passed a bill that could change that.  
It would allow a resident of the district to file a complaint on the grounds that the mascot promotes discrimination.
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Copperwood on Schedule

IRONWOOD - Scott calls the plan “Thinking outside the box”, in New York or Chicago we call it money laundering!

No, no, that’s just a joke. It is really a good idea that will keep $50,000 of our RLF money out of the regionalization scam. Oddly enough the MEDC has already given a tentative ok to the plan. It would be hard to understand their objections if there were any objections. After all the loan is a mini version of what the MEDC wants to do with OUR money.

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The Meeting That Wasn’t

IRONWOOD - An interesting thing occurred at the last meeting, which was a real meeting unlike Monday night’s gathering of “Talking Heads”

When the discussion centered around matching funds, Scott Erickson suggested that the Sisufest people might contribute toward the grant match.

We find it interesting that the Sisufest people could bank that kind of money, when at the same time, downtown merchants lost their financial butts because of the event.
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Michigan Small Town and Rural Development Conference

The sixth annual Michigan Small Town and Rural Development Conference is set for April 20-22, 2010 at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, Mich. A welcome reception is set for the evening of April 20 for those arriving early. The conference will officially kick off at 8 a.m. Wednesday, April 21.
 
Register now at  http://web2.msue.msu.edu/partners/registration.cfm to enjoy the “Small Town Stimulus” – a $25 savings from 2009 prices. The roll back registration price is $125 for the two-day conference if you register before April 9.

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Tech Chess Club Offers Lessons for Youth

HOUGHTON - Tech Chess Club Offers Lessons for Youth. The Michigan Tech Chess Club is teaming up with the Houghton/Keweenaw 4-H to teach kids of all skill levels the pleasure of playing chess.

Lessons will be from 2 to 4 p.m., March 20 and 27, and April 3 and 10, in the Memorial Union Peninsual Room. Lessons are open to children ages 9-19. Cost is $10 for a 4-H membership fee (free membership available if needed).

Lights in the Dusk” is March 11 Nordic Film

HANCOCK, MI – The Finnish film “Lights in the Dusk” is the March selection of the Finlandia University Nordic Film Series. The film will be shown Thursday, March 11, at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the university’s Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock.

“Lights in the Dusk” (Laitakaupungin valot) is a 2006 film written and directed by Aki Kaurismäki. It is the final installment in what has been called Kaurismäki’s “Loser Trilogy.” The two preceding films are “Drifting Clouds” and “The Man Without A Past.” Where the trilogy’s first film was about unemployment and the second about homelessness, the theme of Lights in the Dusk is loneliness
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An Apple A Day

Hurley School District Embarks On Technology Initiative

HURLEY - The Hurley School District voted unanimously tonight to move forward with its commitment to technology and the benefits that it will bring to the districts school children. The Hurley District has a comprehensive plan that will propel their students to the cutting edge of technology. The plan doesn’t come cheaply, but the School District’s Directors recognized the great benefits to education that this program will bring to Hurley.
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Finlandia Students Tour Jacquart Fabrics

IRONWOOD - Recently, Bob Jacquart played host to a group of Finlandia University Art Students.  Fabric Art Majors from Finlandia’s School of Art and Design received a tour of the JFP offices and factory.

Bob Jacquart, greeted the young college students and Phyllis Fredendall, Associate Professor at Finlandia University’s School of Art and Design, and then he delivered an introduction and overview of his company, Jaquart Fabric Products
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Goals For Who?

IRONWOOD - The Ironwood City Commission gathered for the purpose of “Goal Setting”.  This was the second such session for the group and was intended to refine the input from the first workshop.
Without commenting on the validity of the content, this meeting was disappointing. Scott Erickson has done these “goal setting” sessions before and they were done well, especially well compared to Thursday’s workshop. Perhaps he had a better group of people to work with.
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GEDC Approves RLF Regionalization

IRONWOOD - The Gogebic Economic Development commission met for their monthly meeting last week.At the beginning of the meeting Jeff Randall, Bessemer Township Supervisor, addressed the Commissioner under Public Comments.Oddly enough, Mr. Randall, used his one and only appearance at the Commission to question the Commission’s contract with Donna Scorse.

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Tech Faculty Members and Family Survive Chilean Earthquake

by Dennis Walikainen, senior editor

Over a fuzzy phone connection to Santiago, with slight delays, Chuck Wallace relays how scared--and lucky--his family was during the Chilean earthquake.

"It was three in the morning," he says, "and we were in bed on the fifteenth floor, would you believe? It was shaking like something I've never felt before, and I was raised in California."
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“Cookies as Your Canvas” Contest

HANCOCK, MI – Bakers … start your ovens!

Finlandia University’s International School of Art & Design (ISAD) is pleased to announce a “Cookies as Your Canvas” artful cookie baking contest as part of their third annual Fusion Fest on Saturday, March 20, 2010, at the university’s Jutila Center campus, Hancock.

To enter, submit an entry form and ingredient list by March 17, design a cookie that incorporates artistic elements, make 24 of them, and deliver them to the Jutila Center by noon March 20.
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Gogebic Range Next Generation Initiative

Big Group Gathering

The Gogebic Range Next Generation Initiative will be holding its annual “Big Group” gathering on Monday, March 15th, 6:00 PM in Room B-21 of the Jacob Solin Center for Business Education at Gogebic Community College in Ironwood.

This should be a fun and informative evening, where each of the four work-groups will present an update on their activities in an open-house format.

The Halls Were Alive With The Sounds Of Music!

IRONWOOD - Once again the halls of Luther L. Wright High School were filled with the “Sounds of Music”.
 
Saturday, the Ironwood School District and Music Director Steve Boyd, played host to the Wisconsin State Music Association Solo and Ensemble Competition.
 The students from four school districts competed in the event hoping for a score that would propel them into the State Competition. Since this a WSMA event, the state finals will take place in Stevens Point, WI.
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Finlandia University Holds Saturday Fundraiser

Story by Linda Graham
A soup and salad luncheon and a silent auction were held at Finlandia Hall on the campus of Finlandia University on Saturday as a fundraiser for the 4 students heading to Tanzania this May. The silent auction consisted of gift certificates, pictures, books, material, clothing, etc. donated by students, faculty and local businesses. A drawing was held every 25 minutes for area business gift certificates also. The soups included chili, tomato, chicken noodle, and Tanzanian vegetable soup.
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Bessemer Cubs Hold Blue and Gold Banquet

The Cubs of Pack 337 Bessemer, held their annual Blue and Gold Banquet last week. The affair was held in St. Sebastian's Church in Bessemer.

Each year the Cubs and Webelos hold a banquet at which the Cub's are honored for their achievements during the past year.

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Rozsa Center Hosts Boston Artist Chandra Dieppa Ortiz

HOUGHTON - The Rozsa Center is currently hosting solo exhibit by Boston artist Chandra Dieppa Ortiz in a solo exhibit titled, "The Record Player Project: Fragment/Appropriate/Remix." The exhibit runs through Saturday, April 10.

Dieppa's work is powerful and colorful--contemporary in subject matter, but timeless in its honest and unflinching observation of the human condition. Ortiz was born in Patterson, NJ, in 1972, and lives and works in Boston, Mass. She received her BA from Florida State University, a post-baccalaureate degree in painting from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, and a Master of Science in Art Education from Massachusetts College of Art.
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Pamida Helping Out OCAP

The Ontonagon Pamida store joined forces with the Ontonagon County Animal Protection group to showcase the Ontonagon Felines still looking for homes.

Pamida provided a large conspicuous area in the store where the Kitty cages were easily visited by store patrons.

One cute furry cat was adopted as a result of the goodwill effort of both Pamida and the many OCAP volunteers.

There are still many great animals available for adoption. Why not visit the OCAP facilities and find the one for you.
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI401.html
(906) 884-4227
Fun And Fundraising At The Pat

March 6th is going to be a big day at the Civic Center. The Civic Center Board finalized plans for two cool events that will take place on that date. The day will begin with an early afternoon fundraiser for victims services. That event will be a Broomball Tournament in which law Enforcement Officers and Area youth  will face off on the ice at the Pat O’Donnell Civic Center  which is located on the Gogebic College Campus in Ironwood.

The proceeds of the event will go to Victims Services. The adult players participating in the Fundraiser at the Pat must wear Helmets and Elbow padding. It is strongly recommended that knee pads also be worn.
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Artists – Sell Your Work at Fusion Fest!

HANCOCK, MI – Artists—Sell your work!

Finlandia University’s International School of Art and Design is now taking reservations for booth space at their third annual Fusion Fest on March 20, 2010, 12:00 to 6:00 p.m., at the university’s Jutila Center campus, Hancock.
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Hoist Reservoir to be lowered for spring runoff

Houghton MI - Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is preparing for spring runoff by lowering the water level at its Hoist Reservoir. Starting in late February, the reservoir will slowly be drawn down approximately four feet over the next few weeks to reach the target level by March 21.
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Gogebic County Commission Tables Revolving Loan Resolution

BESSEMER - Donna Scorse once again appeared before the Gogebic County Commission to bring them up-to-date on the Regionalization of the Revolving Loan Fund.

Scorse advised that she had a conference call this past Monday with the Michigan Economic Development Commission.  Most notably with Kevin barns, the person coercing the local EDC into submission.  What Barns has agreed to is extending the deadline to sign or else. The new deadline is March 31st. It had been February 28th.
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Touting The Carnegie

IRONWOOD - Elaine Erickson appeared before the Township Board of Trustees this week. Several previously scheduled appearances failed to materialized. The Librarian for the Carnegie also brought along Janelle Sandefur Edwards, the Township’s representative on the library board.
Mrs. Erikson advised the board and those in the audience of the many programs the library has in the works. She also mentioned the upcoming Big Read which will take place in March. This year’s novel is “Call of the Wild ."
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Wastewater Authority Consummates Employee Contracts

The Gogebic-Iron Wastewater Authority held its February meeting this Wednesday.

The members learned that a Grit Pump went down and it will cost approximately $4,500 to have the pump rebuilt. These pumps work 24/7 so replacement every
five to ten years is expected.
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Bessemer School District Seek Budget Cuts

BESSEMER - The Bessemer School District is working to stave off staff cuts if at all possible.

Dave Osier reported to fellow board members that the Finance Committee was attempting to come up with  an amended budget. Cuts will be necessary, however, Osier stated that the bottom lineis  we’re looking to save money without having to do too much with staff” That’s our bread and butter, that’s what we’re here for. But we still don’t know what the state budget cuts will be.

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Powers - Semo Resign

IRONWOOD - Jackie Powers President of the Friends of the Miners Heritage Memorial Park and Rick Semo, Historian have both resigned their positions in the FMHMP, another Ironwood Political Action Committee. Powers sent the following message to her followers;

Dear Friends,

Rick Semo has resigned his position as Historian, and I have resigned my position as President, effective today.
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Despite Madison’s relative affluence, poverty rate growing rapidly

MADISON - The doors at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul food pantry on Fish Hatchery Road don’t open for another 30 minutes, but a line has already formed.

They wait quietly, for the most part, this rainbow coalition of all ages: African-American grandmothers, Latino families, young women with pierced tongues, disabled seniors and working fathers.
What they have in common is poverty. Once a month, with a valid photo ID, clients get enough groceries to last a week.
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Wysocky and Stream Gain Academic All-America Status

by Wes Frahm, director of athletics marketing and communications


Michigan Tech women's basketball players Katie Wysocky (Whitefish Bay, Wis.) and Sarah Stream (Ishpeming) were named 2010 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-Americans as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA). Wysocky garnered first-team honors while Stream was selected to the third team in the College Division, which encompasses all NCAA Division II, III and NAIA institutions in the country.
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Gema's Dilemma

"ABADABA DOBA DA, DUBIDUBY DUBBA "

What the heck did she say ?

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Lynne Gaunt Appointed Coordinator of Admissions Programs

HANCOCK
, MI – Lynn Gaunt has been appointed interim coordinator of admissions programs at Finlandia University.Although new to Finlandia, Gaunt brings a wealth of experience from her varied leadership roles and a background in education. She will be working closely with associate director of admissions Kitti Loukus, Admissions staff, and academic deans to increase the number, quality, and diversity of student applications.

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Materials Arriving for Bond Falls Spillway Replacement

Houghton, MI - Material and equipment for the new Bond Falls spillway project will arrive on site the first week of March, according to Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO), a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group (NYSE: TEG). Its appearance signals the beginning of a major project to replace the Bond Falls Dam spillway.
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Luther L.  Wright High School Honor Roll 
HIGHEST HONORS 
Quarterly Grade Average of 3.900 – 4.000
 
SENIORS:   Lauren Anderson, Courtney Branch, Kayla Chiapuzio, Ali Dahlbacka, Alycia Heckathorn, Kurt Kilpela, Abbey Moore & Marissa Muzzy
 
JUNIORS:  Taylor DuFault
 
SOPHOMORES:  Miranda Anderson
 
FRESHMEN:  Noel Chiapuzio, Ellen Hagstrom, Rachel Klumpp, Maighlin Kolesar, Aleah Maki & Bradley Torni

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GCC Board of Trustees February Meeting

IRONWOOD - At last night’s meeting of the Gogebic Community College Board of Trustees, the Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams were introduced as well as the Women’s Volleyball Team with Coaches Dennis Mackey and Stephanie Justinak. This weekend, the basketball teams compete in NJCAA Region XIII tournament action in Bismarck, North Dakota.

GCC President James A. Lorenson presented the Board of Trustees the first draft of an Economic Impact Study.   Read More...
Newberry Wins District Tournament

IRONWOOD - The District Eight Bantam “B” Tournament came to a close Sunday afternoon as Newbery defeated Copper Country in the Championship match.  The matchup provided the fans with a very exciting game. Within the first seven seconds of the game, Copper Country took the puck down center to score the first goal of the game.   Read More...
Dabbling With DIBELS

BERGLAND - Jan Massie provided the ISD board members with an early update on the new Elementary School Literacy Program. Jan is leading a coaching program to the local schools as part of the reading improvement effort. Each school district is being provided these services through the GOISD Budget.

The goal of the program is to improve the reading skill levels of the young students in the K-3 grades.  Although the program just began in most districts this fall, Watersmeet Schools have been using this program for several years with much success. The other school districts are already show success in varying degrees.

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Prints by Tom Rudd and Margo McCafferty at Reflection Gallery

HANCOCK, MI – 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 1:00 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, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., at Finlandia’s Jutila Center campus.

Old Fire Hall To Be Restored as Off-Campus Student Center, Public Entertainment Venue

by Jennifer Donovan, director of public relations

Michigan Tech students and people from the Copper Country soon will have a new place to congregate and socialize: the old Fire Hall in downtown Houghton.
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Kruisers Seek Recipient

IRONWOOD - The Klassic Kruisers Car Club is looking for a local group or organization to be the recipient of the club’s 2010 Community Support Fund, a percentage of the gate income from the Festival Ironwood 2010 50’s-60’s Dance on July 17. Groups or organizations interested in being considered should submit a letter of application to the club no later than March 31. Letters should include information about the group or organization, number of people involved, etc., and what the money will be used for. Letters should be mailed to Klassic Kruisers Car Club, P.O. Box 181, Hurley, Wisconsin 54534.  Read More...
Record 3,300 Book Across The Bay!

ASHLAND WI - Book Across The Bay (BATB) an annual Nordic Ski and Snowshoe event took place Saturday evening.  This year’s thirty three hundred participants make this event the second largest such event in America. But size is not what makes this ski race so special.

To say that this 10K race is unique is a gross understatement.  How many ski marathons are void of woods, yet alone void of trees? How many ski marathons are void of slopes? 

Read More...
Opera Rookie Impressed

by Dennis Walikainen, senior editor

“A Night at the Opera” was either a Marx Brothers movie or an album by Queen before Saturday night at the Rozsa Center. There, we were transported out of Houghton as the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra led us to another world, or two.
Read More...
STUDENTS QUALIFY FOR STATE COMPETITION

IRONWOOD - Six area students qualified for state HOSA (Health Occupations Students Of America) in Traverse City, April 15-17, 2010. The following students qualified are: Brianna Mosher second place, and Juli Porter first place in Extemporaneous Health Poster. Chelsey Cox third place xtemporaneous Speaking, Randi Vukusich first place Knowledge Test  Read More...
 

2010 Backyard Beekeeping Seminars

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, March 13th at the Ewen-Trout School, 144 Airport Road in Ewen from 10 am to 4:30 pm EST.  McBean will focus on a year in the life of a beekeeper and will

Read More...

Silent Auction and Soup Lunch is Sat., Feb. 27

HANCOCK, MI – A silent auction and soup and salad lunch will take place
this Saturday, February 27, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Finlandia Hall café, which is in the Finlandia University residence hall, Summit St., Hancock.

The fundraiser will help four Finlandia students travel to Tanzania May 4 to 24, 2010, for three weeks of service and learning at a secondary school and with host families in the capital city, Dares Salaam.
Read More...
Kruisers Seek Recipient

IRONWOOD - The Klassic Kruisers Car Club is looking for a local group or organization to be the recipient of the club’s 2010 Community Support Fund, a percentage of the gate income from the Festival Ironwood 2010 50’s-60’s Dance on July 17. Groups or organizations interested in being considered should submit a letter of application to the club no later than March 31. Letters should include information about the group or organization, number of people involved, etc., and what the money will be used for. Letters should be mailed to Klassic Kruisers Car Club, P.O. Box 181, Hurley, Wisconsin 54534.
Read More...
Assessing Their Assets

IRONWOOD - Thursday morning there was an Asset Building “Youth Forum” held on the campus of Gogebic Community College. The forum was organized by Betsy Wesselhoft. Mrs. Wesselelhoft has held several of these forums in the past, but  none lately. She has acquired a grant which enabled the production of this year’s Youth Forum. Betsy is very concerned with the well being of  our area’s youth. Betsy formerly directed the mental Health Facility in Wakefield. Her husband is Steve Wesselhoft, Dean at G.C.C. Youth development is obviously a family affair at the Wesselhoft’s home.
 
Participating in this Youth Forum were approximately 60 students from the six High Schools that make up the G.O.I.S.D. (Gogebic Ontonagon Intermediate School District) Each school principal was asked to select the ten students that would be participating in Thursdays event.

Read More...
Let's Go To The Hop

IRONWOOD - While most of the streets were rolled up Saturday night, that wasn't the case at the Knight of Columbus Hall. The place was Rokin' and a Rollin" in a way the would make downtown Hurley take notice.


The Hall was vividly decorated with a 50's theme (of course!) The ladies wore big puffy skirts adorned with poodle monograms. Of course the were vinyl 45's  lots of 45's.

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Shoes 4 Kids

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) student club held their very first pancake breakfast Saturday. The event which took place at the Residence Hall Cafe' and was a fundraiser to collect shoes and raise money for “Shoes 4 Kids,” an annual charitable activity organized by the American Physical Therapy Association.

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Stopping The Leaks!

IRONWOOD - The City of Ironwood Commission met in special session last night, for the purpose of approving a grant. The grant is for a second phase of the water transmission line heading up Lake Road, towards the well field.

Read More...

Trail Tales

IRONWOOD - The Parks and Recreation Committee held a special meeting last evening to discuss a DNR Grant. The deadline for filing the grant is fast approaching.
The notorious committee has only landed one recreation grant to date, and that was the Skateboard Park. IronwoodInfo worked behind the scenes to help get that grant through the DNR. Since then they (the Parks Committee) has failed to bring home the gold on at least three occasions. Watching this group in action explains all the past failures.
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Hockey Action at The Pat!

IRONWOOD - The Polar Bears are packing them in at the Civic Center this weekend, as the District 8 Bantam B Tournament gets underway.

The action began at Noon Friday when the Copper Country Jr. Hockey Association team from Hancock took on and defeated the Firefighter's Local 643 from Marquette.The action resumes Saturday when Munising takes on Ontonagon. The two teams will take to the ice at 10:00am (cst)

Read More..
DIDA Approves Grant Application

Ironwood - The Downtown Ironwood Development Authority held a special meeting Wednesday to prepare the final Grant Application for the Downtown Blueprints Program.

On hand to answer any questions on the application was Cathi Cole.

Cathi Cole is from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.  Cathi is a Business Development Manager and Community Assistance Specialist. The MEDC is the Lansing group that wants to "confiscate" our Revolving Loan Fund.
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Ontonagon County Approves RLF Takeover

Ontonagon - The first item to come before the commission Wednesday was a request to support the routing of the Heritage Trail through Ontonagon County.
R. J. Rotundo appear before the Commission to explain the many benefits that come with the trail if it were to materialize. In addition to the increased tourism throughout the county, the county would qualify for more federal grants.
Read More...
Finlandia Welcomes Archivist Kent Randell

HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University is pleased to welcome archivist Kent Randell to the Finnish American Historical Archive.

As an archivist, Randell specializes in local history and manuscripts, genealogy, and web presentation. His specialized knowledge of the Finnish language, Finnish history, and Upper Peninsula history translate well to his work at Finlandia’s Finnish American Historical Archive.
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Four Michigan Tech Hockey Players Honored By WCHA For Academics

submitted by Ian Marks, assistant director of athletic communications

Houghton - Michigan Tech contributed four players out of a total of 79 men's and women's student-athletes to make up the fifth annual group of WCHA Scholar-Athlete Award recipients from the Western Collegiate Hockey Association.
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Unlimited on Wood Duck House Distribution

Houghton MI - Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is partnering with Ducks Unlimited to hold a wood duck house distribution event in Houghton on Friday, February 26. 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.
Read More...
Companies entered into a sales agreement subject to regulatory approval

Houghton MI - Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO), a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group (NYSE: TEG), has reached agreement with North American Hydro to transfer ownership of UPPCO's Au Train dam and power plant, along with the corresponding Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) operating license. North American Hydro is the largest independent power producer in the Midwest. The agreement is subject to FERC approval.
Read More...

Township Moves Forward On Sewer Project

Ironwood - At last week's Board of Trustee Meeting, Township Supervisor Kim Mattson, informed the trustees on the progress of the Water and Sewer Projects.

Mattson stated that the sewer project committee met with engineer Marv Winberg. Because the bid prices were lower than the budget for the sewer project, additional work can be added to the project. It was determined the best place for this work was around the old sewer plant on the west end of Sunset Road. The additional work will be handled as a change order at the time of the loan closing.
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Bessemer Considers Budget Cuts

Bessemer - Prior to Monday night’s marathon Commission Meeting,  Bessemer Employees met with Vince Babcock, from Employee Benefits Agency, Marquette Michigan. Babcock reviewed the current employee health care coverage and discussed possible changes for the coming year. 

Changes in the workers plan last year were expected to produce $50,000 in savings for the City. The plan produced actual savings of $58,000.
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MTU Opens Rail Education Center

Houghton - The Michigan Tech Rail Transportation Program (RTP) and Railroad Engineering and Activities Club hosted two events yesterday.

The grand opening of the new CN Rail Transportation Education Center (CN RTEC) begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and short speeches by Pasi Lautala, director of Rail Transportation Program at Michigan Tech, David Ferryman, vice president of Network System Engineering at CN and David Reed, vice president of Research at Michigan Tech.
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Unlimited on Wood Duck House Distribution

Houghton MI - Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is partnering with Ducks Unlimited to hold a wood duck house distribution event in Houghton on Friday, February 26. 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.
Read More...
IAS Board Hears Grim Enrollment Report

Ironwood - February 16, 2010

The Ironwood Area School board heard a grimm enrollment report last evening. Superintendent James Rayner advised the School Board that the student enrollment has fallen to 904 students this past month. A drop of 39 students since October.

The decline in student count was fairly even across the board.

That represents a loss of $240,000 in state funding, assuming of course that the Lansing based legislators refrain from making other cuts.
Ski Accident at Powderhorn

Ironwood - February 15, 2010

Former Ironwood mayor Bruce Noren spent the day avoiding all media coverage relative to a ski accident at his new Powderhorn Mountain. We learned that one person has died as a reult of the accident, but that has not been confirmed.

We also learned that once again the ex-mayor will be giving an exclusive story to his buddies at the Glob.

Sticking with tradition Bruce failed to return our phone calls. We later learned that he was preparing another "I share your concerns" speech.
Big Shoes For Little Feet

Bessemer – February 15, 2010

Health officials may be concerned about the lack of physical exercise by our nation’s youth, but we wouldn’t be too concerned at about Bessemer’s Washington School students.
We recently had the opportunity to go with Susan Beal’s third graders on their annual snowshoe event. This would be a first time experience for many of the students, as well as would be for me.  The youngsters had a great time shuffling off to the ball field behind the Washington School Building. A couple of short climbs and the rest would be a piece of cake. HMMMM!
Read More....
Scouting Japan

Bessemer - February 15, 2010
Joseph Jendrusina is a 12th grade student at A.D.Johnson High school in Bessemer, MI. Joe currently holds a place on the schools Honor Roll with a 3.62 GPA.

When Joe is not busy at school he spends time as a Boy Scout in Bessemer Troop 337.

Just as Jendrusina is a model student, he is also a model Scout. An Eagle Scout of course. These past two weeks Joe has been with 32 other Eagle Scouts visit Japan in a cultural exchange program.
Read More...
E-TC Getting Extension

Ewen - February 15, 2010
While not yet official, it appears that Ewen-Trout Creek School District is getting a two year extension on reducing their General Fund deficit.

The latest Deficit Reduction Plan submitted by Superintendent James Rayner will be approved by the Michigan State Board of Education.

The plan is to continue making budget cuts which will bring the Fund Balance into the black by 2015.
Pro-Vintage Sleds Are Coming To Fairgrounds!

Ironwood - February 12, 2010
Pro Vintage Racing is coming to Ironwood!
The Pro-Vintage Racing Tour will be making its inaugural visit to the Gogebic County Fairgrounds on January 1, 2011.

Read More...
Wyzlics Make Dean's List

Ironwood - February 12, 2010
IronwoodInfo has been informed that Ironwood Resident, Lucas Wyzlic has made the Michigan Tech Dean's 4.0 List. Luke, a senior is studying to be a Physician's Assistant. As our readers know we enjoy nothing more than giving our students the recognition that they deserve. Regrettably, MTU doesn't announce the publication of their Dean's List, nor do they, as other schools do, publish the hometown of those making the list.

The entire list can be viewed at http://www.sa.mtu.edu/dean/list/

Briana Wyzlic, Luke's sister also has made the Dean's List. She too has earned a 4.0.
Briana is attending the UW-Stout in Menomonie.
Congratulations to both Briana and Luke. Congratulations also to their mom, Joyce for a job well done!
What is the Gogebic Ontonagon ISD?

We are an educational service agency for Gogebic and Ontonagon County Schools. We support our local districts in the areas of Special Education Services, Career & Technical Education Services as well as General Education Services. In the area of Special Education, we provide itinerant staff for the local school districts. These services include but are not limited to Speech and Language evaluation / services, Psychological evaluation and assessments, Physical Therapy services, Educational Consulting and Behavioral Modification Planning, Autistic services, Social Work Services, Occupational Therapist Services, Teacher Consultant Services, Classroom Special Education Teachers, Early On Services and Administrative Consultation and Support.
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Commission Tables RLF Resolution
Gogebic County Courthouse - February 11, 2010

Donna Scorse  made an appearance at the Wednesday evening meeting of the Gogebic County Commission.
She brought with her the latest draft for the regionalization of the local revolving loan funds. She also brought two resolutions for the county to pass or not pass.

Read More...
Clearing The Air

Hurley - February 10, 2010
Tuesday evening, Hurley Police Chief Dan Erspamer appeared at the City Council in regard to the Wisconsin statewide smoking ban that goes into effect July 5 2010. The information regarding the new law will be important not only to Wisconsin residents, but as important to those living near the Michigan-Wisconsin Border. For those who continue to smoke, life will become a great deal more complicated after the Fourth of July celebrating has concluded. Chief Erspamer provided the following items to help “clear the air” around the issues. Read More...
Bessemer Releases 2nd Quarter Honor Roll

February 10, 2010

The Bessemer School District has released the Names of those students making the second quarter Honor Roll. Click to view the entire Honor Roll
Hurley Projects Head Into Home Stretch

Hurley - February 10, 2010
The Hurley City Council received its monthly update covering the water and sewer projects.
The report was completed by MSA Project Manager: Scott Martin, P.E. MSA is the consulting firm for the engineering projects.
Read More...
The Frozen Minnow Triathlon

Ironwood - February 11, 2010
The Frozen Minnow Triathlon will be held on Saturday, March 6th at 10:00 a.m.. The Frozen Minnow consists of a 2k cross country ski at Mt. Zion ski area, a 1 mile run and a 200 yard swim in the Gogebic Community College pool. Participants can compete as individuals or as part of a team. Although the Frozen Minnow Triathlon is designed as a race for kids 16 and younger, all ages are welcome to participate.
Read More...
Finlandia University International School of Art & Design: Alumni Exhibit 2010

HANCOCK, MI – February 11, 2010
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 February 18 to March 24, 2010.
An opening reception for the artists will take place at the gallery Thursday, February 18, 7:00 p.m. 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.
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Finlandia Homecoming 2010 is Feb. 14-20

HANCOCK, MI – The perfect chance to show your Finlandia University school spirit is coming up soon!
Finlandia University students and alumni will kick off the university’s annual Homecoming celebration on Valentine’s Day, Sunday, February 14, 2010, with a bonfire at 8:00 p.m. at Finlandia Hall.

The theme of Homecoming 2010 is “Celebrity Spot, Catch ‘em Looking Hot!” for which three special “dress-up” days have been designated.
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Where's The Beef?

Commission Approves Payback!

February 9, 2010

The City Commission took up the issue of the Josephson Nursing Home Loan that has been in default for more than two years.
After receiving comments from the audience,  the Mayor requested City Attorney Dennis Cossi to explain what happened and what he has done to secure the return of the $100,000 loan.  The city has received a signed promissory note from the Josephson principals.
Read More and View Video Coverage...
“Shoes 4 Kids” Pancake Breakfast is Sat., February 20th

HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) student club will host their very first pancake breakfast Saturday February 20, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Finlandia Hall café, which is in the university’s residence hall. A bake sale and a raffle will also take place.
Read More...

MTU Presents "Proof"
The Michigan Tech Theatre Company will present David Auburn's
Pulitzer Prize winning play "Proof" at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 11-13, and
Feb. 18 and 19, in the McArdle Theatre, and 7:30 p.m., Saturday,
Feb. 27, at the Calumet Theatre.

"Proof" won the 2001 Tony, Drama Desk, and New York Drama Critics'
Circle awards, as well as the Pulitzer. A mystery set on a college
campus among an assortment of eccentric, math-savvy academics, it
may be a perfect fit for Michigan Tech, although, as the awards
attest, it appeals to a wide audience. As one reviewer wrote, "You
don't have to know what a prime number is to understand every word
of the smart, fast-paced dialogue or to relate to the wonderfully
drawn characters."  Read More...
Loving Foreign Trade Agreements

Ironwood - February 6, 2010

Both Marina and Elisa have been working as interns at Jacquart Fabric Products since December 14th. They have been studying at Northern Michigan as part of a student exchange program. The Brazilian Government has introduced an exchange program that permitted the young ladies to come to the U.S. to further their studies. Fortunately, Northern Michigan University has a similar program that allowed Lisa and Marina to come to the Upper Peninsula.
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Vandeville Exhibits At Copper Country Community Art Center

Hancock - February 6, 2010

Thursday evening an opening reception was held for artist Denise Vandeville at the Copper Country Community Art Center.

Denise is an amazing artist whose installation “Dignity” has transformed the Hancock Gallery.
 
Denise Vandeville is the Dean of Finlandia University’s School of Art and Design. Prior to coming to Finlandia, Vandeville taught for many years at Bay Du Noc Community College. Read More...

Commission To Consider Loan Agreement

Ironwood February 6, 2010

Tonight the City of Ironwood Commissioners will consider approval of promissory note with Josephson’s Nursing Home for the repayment of the Revolving Loan Fund.
 
The note will most likely be approved as there currently is no obligatory signature for the $100,000 loan. Read More...
Wastewater Authority Approves Repair Contract

Ironwood - February 8, 2010

The Gogebic-Iron Authority and Board held  its January meeting last week.  The regular February meeting will take place on its regularly scheduled date later this month.

The board/authority members discussed the needed repairs and/or replacement to an effluent pipe at the plant.

Last month emergency repairs had to be made to an effluent carrying pipe which had begun to leak. A combination of caustic chemicals and old age has taken their toll on the pipe and other sections of the facility. Read More.

Student Art Exhibit Opens @ Finlandia

Hancock February 6, 2010

Last Thursday a new exhibit opened at the Finlandia Reflections Gallery. The exhibit features the work of four Finlandia School of Art & Design students. The exhibit includes book illustrations by Josh Jaehnig and Rachel Reidenga, and photographs and paintings—in an exhibit titled “But There is So Much to Climb!” by Sarah Anderson and Stephanie Trevino. The opening of the exhibit was celebrated with a public reception for the artists.
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And The Winner Is.......

Michigan Tech - February 5, 2010

Thursday was a mostly cloudy cloudy day but, not a few miles away in Hancock. For the Frat Brothers at Phi Kappa Tau it was another sunny day in Hancock. The Ice Carnival entry had just one first place in the coveted month-long Fraternity Division.

Their theme was "A Classic Mario Plight Portrayed In Snowy White" The Storyline was "A Nintendo video game—in a mushroom kingdom, villains steal the princess and the good guys go on a quest to save her."

This year's Carnival theme was "Games We Know - Captured In in Snow"
Mario Brothers, Nintendo and Chess were all popular entries, however, it was Phi Kappa Tau's fantastic statuary that took home the gold.

View All Entries
 
Chilly Run For Charity

Houghton - February 5, 2010

The Frat members of of Sigma Tau Gamma, the Gamma Chi Chapter of Michigan Tech in front of their entry in Winter Carnival 2009. In addition to their sculpture success, the frat members successfully raised money for the Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Fortunately for the brave guys who took part in this chilly fundraiser, the temperature rose to 30 degrees this morning. The Frat members completed their annual run for charity, running from Wadsworth Hall to their Frat House on College Ave.
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Ironwood Students Make MTU Dean's List

Ironwood - February 5, 2010

Two Ironwood students have made the Michigan Tech Dean's List. Sophomore Marcel Kerkove is listed on the 4.0 GPA list. Marcel is an engineering Student at MTU.

Kyle Torni (photo left) a senior is on the 3.5 - 3.99 List. Kyle is a senior and will be entering a pre-med program this fall. Kyle is the President of the Blue Key Honor Society and the Chairman of this year's Ice Carnarval.

The entire list can be viewed at http://www.sa.mtu.edu/dean/list/
Snowmobile Ride Aims to Break Record, Raise Cash

Ironwood - February 4, 2010

A Richmond Minnesota man and part time Ironwood resident is in the middle of his world record snowmobile run that is raising money for people and family members dealing with cancer. At the age of 55 Nick Keller is attempting to break the world record of 12,163 miles traveled on a snowmobile in 60 consecutive days.

Keller's trip is dedicated to the 20th Anniversary of his mother's death from cancer. Mary Jane was only 56.
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"Games We Know, Captured in Snow"

Houghton – February 3, 2010

The campus at Michigan Tech was buzzing with sounds of Portable Generators and music tonight, Scaffolding, forming materials and halogen lights gave the campus the appearance of a construction zone. It was in fact the scene of many construction zones as the “All Nighter” kicked into high gear. At 4:00pm the last push to complete the snow statutes began and by 8 a.m. Thursday morning the equipment must be gone in time for the 9 a.m.  judging.
Read More...
Wakefield - Marenisco School District Publishes 2nd Quarter Honor Roll

Wakefield - February 4, 2010

The Wakefield Marenisco School District has published their Student Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance Roll for the second marking period.

Read More...
Ontonagon Area School District Publishes 2nd Quarter Honor Roll

Ontonagon - February 3, 2010

The Ontonagon School District has published the second quarter honor roll. The list includes students sixth grade through 12th grade.

Names appearing in capital letters indicate a 4.0 GPA

Read More...
Bessemer Considers Budget Cuts

Bessemer - February 3, 2010
The Bessemer City Commissioners met Monday evening for their first February meeting.  The commissioners approved the payables in the amount of $6,271.49 and were payable out of the following funds: GENERAL FUND $4,708.02,  WATER UTILITY FUND 1507.22,   and the DDA 56.25  
The Commissioners received a letter of resignation from City Clerk Jim Trudgeon who is resigning from the Downtown Development Authority.

Read More...
Festival Ironwood Moves On

Ironwood - February 3, 2010
Monday evening the committee for organizing and running  Festival Ironwood met at the American Legion Hall.
For many, many years to job of producing the Festival’ fell mainly on Chris Bergquist and the Klassic Kruisers.   After seventeen years Chris feels that it’s time to pass the torch on to others.

Read More...
 

“LET’S GO TO THE HOP!”

Ironwood - February 2, 2010

The Klassic Kruisers Car Club and the Ironwood Knights of Columbus invite you to join them at “Let’s Go to the Hop!” this year’s annual winter fund raiser. This year’s dance is returning to the oldies sock hop theme and is set for Saturday, February 20, from 8 pm to midnight at the KC Hall, with live music by “Rewynd” sponsored by Quality Collision Center and Care-A-Van. Activities include a 50/50 raffle, karaoke, contests, and the world's largest silent raffle table featuring many hand crafted items and prizes donated by local businesses. The KCs provide refreshments. So fluff up your crinolines, dust off your leather jackets and saddle shoes and plan to join the Kruisers and the KCs for another evening of music, dancing, food and fun! All proceeds go to further the community support activities of the car club.
Read More...

What Were They Thinking?

Ironwood - February 2, 2010

One has to wonder, just how much contempt does the Sisufest Organizers have for Ironwood’s Downtown Business Owners.

Now, after hearing the business owner’s complaints, the same indifferent people have rubbed salt into the wounds. Last Thursday the indifferent race organizers held a party for 150+ volunteers outside downtown Ironwood. In fact it’s outside the city entirely.
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46th Parallel Planters Offering Richter Presentation

Ironwood - February 2, 2010

The 46th Parallel Planters Gardening Club invites all interested nature lovers to meet Jeff Richter well-known Mercer nature photographer on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at 6 p.m. at Gogebic Community College. Jeff will present a slide show on “Seasons of the North”. He is well-known for his photographs in “White Deer- Ghosts of the North”, “Pure Superior ” and “Seasons of the North”. Jeff will have the books on hand and will autograph them when purchased. 
Read More...

Michelle Jacob to Become Women's Soccer Program's First Coach

Houghton - February 2, 2010

submitted by Wes Frahm, director of athletics communications and marketing

Michigan Tech Athletic Director Suzanne Sanregret announced Wednesday the hiring of Michelle Jacob as the school's first-ever women's soccer coach. The former head coach at Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wis., will begin the duties of starting Tech's soccer program from scratch Monday, Feb. 8. 
Read More...

Heikinpäivä 2010

Hancock - February 1, 2010
The Heikinpäivä celebration in Hancock Michigan is such a cultural phenomenon. It like other invented traditions attempt to create what Pierre Nora terms a milieu de mémoire, an environment of memory.

Heikinpäivä, is a series of Finnish related activities in Hancock celebrating the mid-point of winter. Although hard to believe, we’re past the mid-point of winter, or so they say.
Read More...

New Honorary IVFD members Ben & Jeanne Walston

Ironwood - February 1, 2010
The Ironwood Volunteer Fire Department held it's annual awards banquet Saturday January 30, 2010 at the Olde Suffolk Ale House in downtown Ironwood.

The Walston's, owners of Ben's Place Restaurant downtown Ironwood,  are long time supporters of the IVFD.  Each year they generously allow the department to use their property and provide electricity for the department's Jack Frost Parade hot popcorn and hot chocolate booth.  They have sold department raffle tickets, helped sponsor the 2008 UP Volunteer Firefighters' Tournament, and have even closed their restaurant on a Sunday so the department would have a place to hold a fund raising breakfast.

Read More...

Winter Carnival's Gearing Up: Come on Out and Play

 Winter Carnival (theme: "Games We Know Captured in Snow") doesn't begin officially until 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, but plenty of fun is on tap before the final push to finish snow statues during the All Nighter.

A complete schedule of events is posted on Michigan Tech's Carnival website, along with photos and videos from 2009's event. Curling starts Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Calumet Drill House, and ice bowling, skating, ice fishing, snow volleyball and yooper sprint competitions are scheduled until Feb. 3rd. View Schedule

IPSD Releases Annual Report

Ironwood - January 29, 2010

Robert Erspamer, Director of Public Safety, released the annual report to the general public today. The report had been sent to the City Commissioners approximately ten day ago. The report covers the year beginning a1/1/09 and ending 12/31/09   Read More...

Go easy on the environment –
and our wallets, says Gen Y

When it comes to saving the environment, Generation Y is all for it – as long as it comes with an economic benefit, according to new research by Michigan State University in collaboration with Deloitte LLP.
Based on a scientific survey of 18- to 30-year-olds, researchers from MSU’s Eli Broad Graduate School of Management found that young consumers will not pay a premium price for an automobile simply because it is environmentally friendly. Instead, the determining factor – by far – is fuel efficiency.
Read More...

Business Owners Concerns Continue

Ironwood - January 29, 2010

IronwoodInfo has been contacted by downtown business owners expressing their concerns about Monday night’s merchants meeting at Tacconelli’s.

While there were only two people at the meeting that admitted to being members of the race committee, it seems that their demeanor was construed as being indifferent towards the business owners concerns.
Read More...

Civic Center Board Seeking Ideas

Ironwood - January 28, 2010 Last evening the Civic Center Board met with the City Commissioners in what described as a "workshop".

The entire membership of both groups were present, no absentees.

What a difference two years has made. The financial status of the venture has done a complete turnaround. In the past two years the board members have paid off nearly $100,000 in debt. The small remaining balance will be paid off next month
Read More...

Elementary Education Program at Finlandia
HANCOCK, MI – January 26, 2010

Finlandia University is pleased to announce that the university’s Elementary Education program has completed the second of three steps leading to full program accreditation by receiving probationary approval from the Michigan State Board of Education.
Read More...

Business Not As Usual

Ironwood -  January 27, 2010

Downtown Business owners met Monday evening to discuss ways to avoid financial losses at next year’s Sisufest. While the group supports the Sisufest they do not want a repeat this year’s poor planning. The business owners met at Tacconelli’s Town House to discuss the downtown street closings at this year’s ski marathon , that resulted in significant financial losses to the downtown area. The businesses not only failed to benefit from the race activity but had far less than their normal weekend income.
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Vaara Chosen as Off Campus Director January 27, 2010


Mr. John D. Vaara, Hancock, has been hired to fill the half-time vacancy for the Off-Campus Program Coordinator. The position has been held by Tom Poisson, of Ontonagon, for a number of years. Poisson retired at the end of December. Vaara, an Ironwood native and GCC alumni, received a BS and Master of Arts from Northern Michigan University. He has been an educator since 1973, and recently retired as the Superintendent of Schools for Hancock Public Schools.

Among other duties, Mr. Vaara will be in charge of the GCC Houghton Campus. Houghton facility is currently a two classroom facility at the Michigan Works offices. It is a unique undertaking that has been very successful.
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Two Ironwood Men Arrested


Ironwood - January 26, 2010

Ironwood Public Safety has arrested an 18-year-old male and a 20-year-old male for Burglary w/intent. Both subjects were lodged in the Gogebic County Jail. Bond has been set a $100,000 each.

At app. 11:40pm on Jan. 25, 2010 Ironwood Public Safety Officers Chiapuzio and Colassaco found a break in had occurred at Range Flour and Feed store on Douglas Blvd. Officers secured the outside of the building and then were able to locate two suspects in side the business. After being interviewed by the dept. Detective and searches of their vehicle and residence’s, stolen property was recovered which linked the suspects to numerous other car burglaries and business break-in’s in the area. The investigation is continuing with additional charges expected.

Hurley Police Dept., Michigan State Police, and the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Dept assisted ironwood Public Safety.

Det. Rod Passuello

Tech's Wolf-Moose Work on Isle Royale is Subject of Documentary


Houghton - January 26, 2010
Scientists have been studying the interdependence of wolves and moose at Michigan's Isle Royale National Park for half a century. It is the longest continuous predator-prey study ever conducted.
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Bohnak to Sign New Almanac at North Wind Books

January 25, 2010
HANCOCK, MI – Finlandia University’s North Wind Books will host a book signing with author and meteorologist Karl Bohnak on Saturday, January 30, 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 U.P. with over 200 photos. The “fun facts” included in the book cover practically every acre of the Upper Peninsula.
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GCEDC Welcomes New Members 

Ironwood - January 24, 2010
The Gogebic County Economic Development Commission met at GCC this past week. The meeting included several visitors. Dave Anderson was present to bring the Board up to date on the Orvana Copperwood Project.
Randy Scott the projects engineer was also on hand to discuss the possible methods being considered to bring water to the project. Scott made the same presentation to GRWA last week. Interestingly the options for Copperwood included Ironwood's behind the scenes attempt to sell it's water to Orvana.
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Sense of Urgency

Ironwood - January 26, 2010
Shrinking state funding and dwindling student counts has created a sense of urgency at the Ironwood Area School Board. The Student count was down another 15 students last month, The difference in the size of this year’s graduating class and next year’s kindergarten class is a minus 30 students. The expected school population could be below 900   students. The state has indicated that it will provide that approximately 200 dollars less per student and the blended enrollment numbers are on the short side of the formula.  The numbers seem to point towards a significant revenue shortfall.
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Finlandia Hosts Apron Exhibit

Hancock - January 24, 2010

The Finlandia University Reflection Gallery, Hancock, is hosting an exhibition of altered and handmade aprons through February 3, 2010. The exhibit opened at the Finlandia Reflection Gallery on January 11th 2010
The exhibit, ”The Apron Show” was organized by the Finlandia Young Women’s Caucus (YWC).

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Melinda Steffy Exhibit at Finlandia

Hancock - January 21, 2010

Finlandia University is currently hosting an art exhibit at the Gallery, which is located at the Finnish America Heritage in Hancock. The month long exhibit which opened on January 11th features the work of Artist Melinda Steffy.

Thursday evening the University hosted an opening reception for the Philadelphia Artist. Steffy gave a talk to  the audience gathered there to view the exhibit.

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Fulbright Scholar Studies Immigrant Finns

Houghton - January 24, 2010
Ulla Aatsinki, a Fulbright scholar from Tampere, Finland, feels right at home at Tech these days as she studies Finnish immigrants to Upper Michigan. She has traveled far and found the familiar.

She says these newcomers brought with them a frame of mind that they shared with their forbears in the homeland:
sisu, a Finnish word for which there is no literal translation.
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Greening the Road Commission

Ontonagon - January 24, 2010

At the January meeting of the Ontonagon County Board of Commissioners, the issue of benefits for the Road Commissioners was placed before the County Commissioners. The item had been tabled at last months meeting. Not the case this month.
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"Dining with the Kappas" Supports Haiti Relief Efforts

Houghton _ January 24, 2010

This local event is part of a nationwide "Dining with the Kappas" fundraiser that undergraduate chapters of Kappa Alpha Psi across the United States will be hosting on the same day. Chapters are partnering with any restaurant of their choice, making a percentage of the total profits of the people they bring to the restaurant, and donating 100 percent of that money to Haiti relief. This event is one of many efforts from the fraternity's "iKare" (International Kappa Action Relief Effort) initiative, which was started to help those in need in response to this natural disaster.
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P&Z Approves Kennel
Ironwood - January 19, 2010
The Ironwood Township Planning Commission met again last to take up work on an updated Five Year Master Plan. The Commission Members discussed ways to get input from the community, especially from those people that own or operate businesses that would be affected by the plan.
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